Yet Another Cycling Forum

General Category => On The Road => Topic started by: GruB on 19 November, 2009, 06:28:15 pm

Title: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 19 November, 2009, 06:28:15 pm
a man in a foreign registered small white car-derived van pulled alongside me and wound down his window.  My 'spidey sense' was not tingling so I listened when he said "Your rear light is the most effective I have ever seen.  Well done".
The power of Dinotte.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today ........................
Post by: Jacomus on 19 November, 2009, 06:38:21 pm
Excellent! I was only today telling my colleague about the time I pulled up next to a man inna Volvo, gestured for him to wind his window down (smile on my face, to signal I wasn't going to be an arse). He put his window down and before I could speak, came out with "whatthefuckdoyouwantfuckingcyclistcuntallfuckingthesameiwasntevennearyou before putting his window up and giving me the finger. Indeed, he had given me plenty of room and overtaken at a sensible point and speed, however, it was pissing with rain an he had shut the bottom of his overcoat in the door, subject to all the crap off the roads that his front tyre kicked up.

The embarrasment on his face was well worth me shouting to him why I had stopped  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MSeries on 20 November, 2009, 10:16:55 am
On my commute today: I deported much later than usual and knew I'd be with alot more other traffic than usual. The first set of traffic lights, at cross roads were not working. I rode up the RH side of the queue to the front as usual and gingerly started to make my right turn. A van was approaching from my left to turn right into the road I'd just come from. I spied a car behind him. I hovered in front of the van waiting for the car to pass. We made eye contact he passed and waved in acknowledgment  :thumbsup: At the bottom of the hill I got to the front at the lights, timed my arrival so I could do a  3 second trackstand then crossed to join the almost stationary queue. Got to the RH side of it and rode all the way to the roundabout, about 1 mile. Hovered then merged in to the traffic on the roundabout, another car let me in  :thumbsup: Pass the main bottleneck then time to move left to make my exit. A car had entered and was on my left, I was turning right so had to move from the inside lane. Strong clear signal, deliberate move, car didn't change speed,let me in front, MSeries exits with thumbs up and wave of thanks to driver  :thumbsup:.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 November, 2009, 10:25:08 am
You're hallucinating, lad!  Go have a lie down in a darkened room... ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 20 November, 2009, 08:51:41 pm
I had to leave an hour earlier today due to a day trip on work purposes.  The journey started in darkness but the lack of cars was excellent.  I may just make this 'my time' to leave from now on. 

I had a head wind to work and a lesser head wind on the way home.  That is annoying.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Hot Flatus on 20 November, 2009, 09:08:44 pm
First day of commuting after over a month off the bike.  God I missed it.  I went through the usual symptoms of a long lay off over the past few weeks:  feeling like I really needed to burn energy off, palpitations, and then a bout of fidgets that I reckon is my body's last ditch attempt to get me off my arse before it turns down the metabolism and lays on flab.

It was great! I just wanted to keep going and going.  Didn't want to overdo it though, as all my tendons and muscles haven't been used for ages and I'm no spring chicken.  After the shower at work I felt great... full of the joys of being alive and very positive.  Gotta love those endorphins  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 November, 2009, 09:39:25 pm
I left work an hour late and rather disgruntled.

One hour of swift fun later, I was home with the fastest time of the week, and having done my 40km for the first time since Monday.  Big smiles. :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 23 November, 2009, 09:34:13 am
I left home and at the first mile mark noticed I had forgotten my drink bottle so went back and got it. 
It was very very head windy, gusty and wet.  I was suited and booted for the conditions though so did not really mind.
Got to the farm at the 18 mile mark just in time for the massive herd of cows to exit the dairy onto the road to walk down to their field of choice for the day.  There was a female farmer at the head of the line.  I normally wait until they come out but this was the main herd and they are quite used to me now so I mixed in amongst them.  It was quite good as she took them a good 400 metres along the road and I was able to hurry them up a tad.  She said thanks as I was cut loose at the end.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: urban_biker on 23 November, 2009, 09:57:01 am
I left home, got halfway up the road and discovered that my bottom bracket had half unscrewed itself. So much for my ultra reliable fixed gear bike.

It turns out that the Miche primo BB on my Condor has a bit of a reputation. Now I have to drill out the centre of my Shimano freewheel tool so that I can tighten it up! A trip to Condor being a bit much for us provincials.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 23 November, 2009, 10:07:41 am
Put the schmidt wheel off the audax bike on the commuting bike as the commuting bike shimano wheel is fubar

At the same time I adjusted the front brake, just because of normal pad wear

This morning it was very wet and as I left chez vorsprung I did adjust the brakes again to make them more bitey, they weren't very impressive

Got up to the top of Blagdon Hill and the brakes still seemed a bit rubbish.  It was wet but they were worse than I'd expect.  I thought maybe if I gave the back brakes a bit less cable that might improve things overall.  So I stopped and got the tools out.  Then I noticed that the right front brake block was completely loose and it was a wonder the brakes did anything.  

So I avoided a brakeless descent down a 2 mile long hill
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Zipperhead on 23 November, 2009, 02:50:53 pm
Quote from: urban_biker on 23 November, 2009, 09:57:01 am
It turns out that the Miche primo BB on my Condor has a bit of a reputation. Now I have to drill out the centre of my Shimano freewheel tool so that I can tighten it up! A trip to Condor being a bit much for us provincials.

Do you know how to cure it? I can't get mine to stay in place - perhaps the easiest solution would be to throw the BB away and put another more sensible one in.

My commute today was lovely and peaceful (well, the bike was). I replaced the BB on my Pompino over the weekend, the one that was in there had sort of died - the bearings were ok, but one of the bearings was detached from the shell and it was making awful noises.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 23 November, 2009, 02:56:06 pm
Quote from: Spartacus on 23 November, 2009, 02:50:53 pm
Quote from: urban_biker on 23 November, 2009, 09:57:01 am
It turns out that the Miche primo BB on my Condor has a bit of a reputation. Now I have to drill out the centre of my Shimano freewheel tool so that I can tighten it up! A trip to Condor being a bit much for us provincials.

Do you know how to cure it? I can't get mine to stay in place - perhaps the easiest solution would be to throw the BB away and put another more sensible one in.

My Campag bb/lockring tool fits my Miche Primato BB without modification.

I've never had a problem with it coming undone and the bike has done 17,000km now. It's been loosened and tightened 4 or 5 times over its life.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 23 November, 2009, 03:47:55 pm
How does that Miche BB work? Is there a lock ring for each side?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Zipperhead on 23 November, 2009, 03:53:46 pm
No, it doesn't have a lock ring on either side - imagine a regular cartridge bottom bracket, but both sides are like the left hand side.

The first time mine came loose I noticed because one of the crank bolts started touching the rear fork where the entire thing had shifted left.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 23 November, 2009, 03:55:54 pm
Quote from: Spartacus on 23 November, 2009, 03:53:46 pm
No, it doesn't have a lock ring on either side

So what are you tightening against when fitting?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 23 November, 2009, 03:56:48 pm
There's a picture of a Miche BB here:-


   Miche Primato Track Bottom Bracket Only £12.59
 (http://www.wiggle.co.uk/p/cycle/7/Miche_Primato_Track_Bottom_Bracket/5360040672/)

There are just the 3 parts; the two black cups, and the rest of it. The independent cups allow the chainline to be adjusted within a few mm or so.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Martin109 on 23 November, 2009, 03:56:58 pm
I've got two of these.  No problems on one bike, but the other has to have the BB set off centre in order to get the required chainline, but I deal with this by putting on a lockring to at least hold that side*, and keep an eye on the other.


Edit: *the side that protrudes, that is.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 23 November, 2009, 04:02:17 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 23 November, 2009, 03:56:48 pm
There are just the 3 parts; the two black cups, and the rest of it. The independent cups allow the chainline to be adjusted within a few mm or so

Saw that pic and wondered if there were unshown parts. I'm amazed that stays put.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: dasmoth on 23 November, 2009, 04:05:11 pm
Mine's recently started making annoying clicking noises every revolution of the cranks while under power.  Or at least I think it has -- most of the rest of the drive train has been eliminated from my enquiries now.  I'll find out tomorrow when the appropriate tool arrives (Wiggle claim they posted it this morning, so fingers crossed!).

Assuming the noise is one of the BB cups starting to come unstuck, might it be worth trying Loctite or similar when I put it back together?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 23 November, 2009, 06:48:58 pm
Miche Primato  :sick:

I had some Miche Primato hubs. They have a reputation for the flanges to go bang. It happened to me once and two others I know of.
Also, the bearings were OK for a while, but they weren't that good. Especially in the wet. They made a right racket for some time and developed quite a lot of sideplay.
If the BBs are the same quality, I'd avoid unless desperate. They maybe not the worst that money can buy though.
I'm very fond of my cheapo Campag sealed BBs. They are the best BBs I've ever used. At least the Miche BBs are pretty cheap.
If it's giving you hassle and you ride a fixed, I wouldn't bother trying to sort it out when you can buy a decent Campag one which if my experience is worth anything, will be very reliable and last a very long time. Easily 20,000 miles.

Quote from: Spartacus on 23 November, 2009, 03:53:46 pm
No, it doesn't have a lock ring on either side - imagine a regular cartridge bottom bracket, but both sides are like the left hand side.

The first time mine came loose I noticed because one of the crank bolts started touching the rear fork where the entire thing had shifted left.

If you can't use lockrings, then I'd use some threadlock. If that doesn't work, I'd bin it and buy a Campag.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 23 November, 2009, 08:38:48 pm
Getting back on track now people  ::-)


On the way home I had an ace tailwind so I romped the journey in  ;D :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 23 November, 2009, 08:51:06 pm
Quote from: Grub on 23 November, 2009, 08:38:48 pm
Getting back on track now people  ::-)


On the way home I had an ace tailwind so I romped the journey in  ;D :D

We were on track.
Track cycling components to be precise. :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 23 November, 2009, 08:52:48 pm
I didn't think my pun would be missed.   ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 24 November, 2009, 09:20:51 am
I forgot to mention that yesterday I met the driver of the Astra that took me out in April.  We met at the same place as the accident.  I have learnt to take more care at that location to be aware of mistakes made by others.
She too has learned not to cut across static traffic with a blind view of cyclists on the inside track.

All good.  I nodded and smiled.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 24 November, 2009, 09:28:22 am
Lovely, inspiring thread.  ;D
Unfortunately I have nothing current to add, except to echo Pimping Thea's comments. Unfortunately it's going to be another month or so for me.  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wowbagger on 24 November, 2009, 09:34:30 am
Yesterday, I bought some petrol. :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 24 November, 2009, 09:36:35 am
Whew, at least I feel better than you!  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 24 November, 2009, 08:53:01 pm
Well you chaps might be the sane ones.
Today was horrendous.  Wind wind wind and wind.
It was a shocker of a journey in and even worse coming home.  I fear I cannot keep this up at this rate.
On the way home, within 1.5 miles I got a front wheel puncture.  It was starting to spit again and I was on a muddy little lane and I thought - bugger it.  Got the mobile out and called for a taxi from home.  I did not have the will to change the tyre there and then when I was so close to home.

It is obviously the silly season too as I saw a really close near miss on the way to work - car vs car and on the way home I saw an even worse one.  This one would have been fatal or multiple fatalities.  Thank fully there is a God.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 24 November, 2009, 09:30:09 pm
Mmmmh. Twas breezy today, indeed...

It certainly is silly season - I saw one oncoming vehicle simply drive too close to the central line, cross it and scrape off the sides of two stationary cars in a queue to the traffic lights ahead - I was just behind and filtering past on the left toward the (red) lights...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 24 November, 2009, 09:31:51 pm
Last night my back road home closed here (http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=53.135341,-2.255201&daddr=&hl=en&geocode=&mra=mi&mrsp=0&sz=16&sll=53.131762,-2.254407&sspn=0.01048,0.027874&ie=UTF8&ll=53.123238,-2.252712&spn=0.041926,0.111494&z=14), heading south. Police cars and lots of blue flashy lights. WPC (Also adorned with blue flashy lights) told me I couldn't go that way due to a fire. Had to do a detour down the A34. Looking right from the A34, I could see the fire over the fields. It was a big one, looked like a major barn fire.

This morning, road was still closed. Went down anyway (I don't mind the extra distance but would prefer not to do it on the A34). I figured the fire would be out, and whatever blockage there was, I would be able to get past easily on the bike. I was right, but there were still two fire engines, and numerous firemen around. They didn't bat an eyelid as I went past. Same again this evening - road closed, two fire engines and firemen wandering around - 24 hours later. Are they waiting in case it flares up again?

On the plus side, I had chance hall lane to myself.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 25 November, 2009, 07:55:23 am
Perhaps they're investigating suspected arson? Or cleaning up chemical spillage?

Quote from: tonycollinet on 24 November, 2009, 09:31:51 pm
WPC (Also adorned with blue flashy lights) told me I couldn't go that way due to a fire.
You mean she had blue flashy lights actually on her uniform? This is a joke and I'm having a SOH black hole, isn't it? If not, where were they - on her helmet?  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 25 November, 2009, 07:59:13 am
'Ere. Who put that tree there, right in the middle of road!?
It wasn't there last night.
Someone's avin' a larf.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 25 November, 2009, 08:52:24 am
Supermini decides that rule 1 must be obeyed, despite not being able to see the car coming the other way round the corner.
Cue much beeping of horns and flashing of lights.
idiot!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 25 November, 2009, 09:30:39 am
Yesterday I slept in, faffed really badly with lights and clothes and stuff, set off late then realised in the first village I was going to be stupid late to work unless I really thrashed it, and I had a case of CBA so I turned round, put the bike on the car and drove in, intending to ride home.
The car died 2 miles from work and I had to get a rescue.  :facepalm: Served me right.
Nasty home, blown scarily all over the place, but really not too bad this morning, considering it's still an acrossterly wind.

Quote from: tonycollinet on 24 November, 2009, 09:31:51 pm
Same again this evening - road closed, two fire engines and firemen wandering around - 24 hours later. Are they waiting in case it flares up again?
Straw stack/ muck heap/ stubble fires can burn underground for days.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 25 November, 2009, 12:16:52 pm
Riding along Dr Johnson's Avenue in Tooting, which has speed bumps every 50 metres or so this morning I had the usual numpty attempt to overtake me, despite the fact that I was going as fast as the van in front and maintaining a space of about 6 feet between the van and me.

So on three occasions I had a silver people carrier pretty much alongside me but halfway into the opposite lane.

I held my ground and they had to back off at every speed hump since they couldn't maintain my speed and I was closing to within a foot or so of the van in front.

Finally the van reaches the end of the inevitable queue and I'm able to pull out round him and proceed to the front of the queue and cross the junction in front of the four or so vehicles that had held me up.

It never ceases to amaze me how cars can only see us as the problem and fail to notice the ton or so of the real problem in front of me.

The only positive conversation I've had in ages was with a taxi driver who was admiring my Dave Russell fixed one morning and asked me where I was going. He then asked me how long it would take and was clearly impressed that I could cover the 8 miles or so in about half an hour.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 25 November, 2009, 08:24:13 pm
Putney Bridge Road turning right into Lower Richmond Road at 7.25pm. Traffic lights go green for me but the lemmings going to the Fulham game have used the break in traffic to start to cross Lower Richmond Road despite the little man on the crossing not going green.

"Oi!" says I, having to almost come to a complete stop, "has watching Fulham got so bad that you'd rather throw yourself into traffic?"

Various sniggers (Blackburn fans giving themselves away) and a couple of muffled "coff" from a few of them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 25 November, 2009, 09:23:17 pm
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 25 November, 2009, 07:55:23 am
Perhaps they're investigating suspected arson? Or cleaning up chemical spillage?

Quote from: tonycollinet on 24 November, 2009, 09:31:51 pm
WPC (Also adorned with blue flashy lights) told me I couldn't go that way due to a fire.
You mean she had blue flashy lights actually on her uniform? This is a joke and I'm having a SOH black hole, isn't it? If not, where were they - on her helmet?  :o

They were clip on blue flashy lights (leds I assume) on her uniform - about chest height. It was actually quite effective, since she was out of the vehicle, would make her much more visible to other cars.


Road was still closed this morning - still with 2 engines in attendance. All cleared though by this evening. I am assuming they were still putting out burning straw, since the hoses were still all connected to the water supply.

Also piles of burnt straw have been dumped near the entrances of many of the nearby fields.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 25 November, 2009, 09:32:44 pm
Rode in today and nearly died.  Jeez this wind is a drag and a drainer of strength. 
I have a little lady at work that lives in the office next to which my bikes are parked.  We get along very well so she looks after them for me.  Can't trust cops as they fiddle so when anyone comes near she comes out and tells them to beware as the flashy bike belongs to mwha.
Anyway, she also tells me if I have a puncture before it is home time.
Today she came up to my office and informed me of such.
I took a cop car home tonight as I have an early start and it was necessary.
I'll change the tyre tomorrow.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 25 November, 2009, 09:44:55 pm
You're getting a lot of punctures lately Grub.
Time for some new tyres? 1 in a week is rare and bad luck. 2 in a week, then I seriously look at my tyres.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 25 November, 2009, 10:18:30 pm
I agree, but back tyre this morning, front tyre last night.  The roads around here have no gutters.  When the school and community buses and vans and 4WD vehicles go into the verge it shoots out mud all over the road.  Plus when the cows walk along the road to go from field to milking parlour they drop all sorts of crap and muck.  The end result being my commute at this time of year is very flinty and horrible.
Typical chalk downs riding.  I have been quite lucky up until late.  The front will need replacing soon though.  All the punctures have been caused by big sharp flinty sharks teeth type so I am okay with up to a point. Pardon the pun  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 25 November, 2009, 11:17:45 pm
I found my commute rather hard work today - I felt I was getting no respite from the filtering / weaving in and out / relentless traffic. There seemed to be a lot of arsiness.

Quote from: Greenbank on 25 November, 2009, 08:24:13 pm
Putney Bridge Road turning right into Lower Richmond Road at 7.25pm

I was going over Putney Bridge at about that time, followed someone that I thought might be you, but as I got closer it appeared to be a geared bike. So probably not.  
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 26 November, 2009, 04:12:42 am
Quote from: tonycollinet on 25 November, 2009, 09:23:17 pm
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 25 November, 2009, 07:55:23 am
Perhaps they're investigating suspected arson? Or cleaning up chemical spillage?

Quote from: tonycollinet on 24 November, 2009, 09:31:51 pm
WPC (Also adorned with blue flashy lights) told me I couldn't go that way due to a fire.
You mean she had blue flashy lights actually on her uniform? This is a joke and I'm having a SOH black hole, isn't it? If not, where were they - on her helmet?  :o

They were clip on blue flashy lights (leds I assume) on her uniform - about chest height. It was actually quite effective, since she was out of the vehicle, would make her much more visible to other cars.
Wow. On the helmet would have looked funnier!
But living as I currently do in a place where the police wear khaki uniforms, definitely no hi-viz, and don't necessarily even turn their headlights on at night, it really does show the Northern World's visibility mania in a different light.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 November, 2009, 09:45:52 am
I saw a motorist this morning.  A blonde woman, with a bob.  And a bushy brown fake moustache in the manner of Tom Selleck.

Eh?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ScumOfTheRoad on 26 November, 2009, 10:04:00 am
Clarion, could be something to do with Movember (month of growing moustaches for charity).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 November, 2009, 10:14:34 am
I did think about that.  Wearing it into work is one thing.  But wearing it to drive? :o

I hoped it was a foolish attempt to fool safety cameras ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 26 November, 2009, 10:25:57 am
Perhaps the moustache was real and the blonde bob was a wig?  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 November, 2009, 10:37:25 am
Could be, but he had a very feminine face if so ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 26 November, 2009, 12:25:25 pm
Must have been a tailwind today.

8kg extra stuff in a pannier and trying not to race and to keep the HR down (only to 162bpm average mind you) and managed almost the fastest commute of the year (27.3kph average into Londinium).

5-a-side after work tonight, followed by a couple of pints and then a much slower ride home methinks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 27 November, 2009, 07:40:42 am
I did not feel right.  It did not just seem to click.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 27 November, 2009, 08:45:44 am
The sun is out
The sky is blue
The brain cell's gone
To Malibu

and it's left hook,
left hook pinch point time...


Having had nice relaxed commuting for years, today the wheel of fortune shifted ever so slightly. I approached the third of three pinch points (pedestrian refuges), thinking I was assertive enough, but Mr WVM and crew decided to force his way through. I made a brief vocal remonstration (as I could see the faces in the wing mirror. At which point the left indicator went on (I was about at the rear quarter of the van) and he swung left across me.

A slightly less brief vocal consideration of his intellectual ability for all and sundry to hear ensued.

Calm and Zen being restored with a large cup of coffee..
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 27 November, 2009, 08:47:02 am
Silly season continues - almost underwheeled by a ruddy great cement mixer coming up Hady Hill this morning. Pillock!  >:(
Too busy jumping onto curb to get his number  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 November, 2009, 09:13:20 am
I thought I was going to see another nasty left hook yesterday, as a van shoved across into the bus lane at newington, forcing a rider into the gutter before indicating left.  Only the presence of a car waiting to turn out of (and blocking) the road entrance the van wanted to go into made him pause, and probably saved the cyclist from very nasty injury.

>:( >:( >:( >:( >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 27 November, 2009, 09:40:04 am
Quote from: Grub on 27 November, 2009, 07:40:42 am
I did not feel right.  It did not just seem to click.

+1

I have had a headwind on the way into work each day this week and its got progressively harder (and slower) to do the 8 miles to work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Marco Stefano on 27 November, 2009, 12:33:43 pm
1 beautiful sunrise, 4 herons, 5 gamboling deer, guillemots, a white pheasant (weird), a herd of eastern Europeans crop picking, and a tailwind. Great to be back on a bike after feeling crap for 3-4 weeks.

All this and a huge pile of cream cakes from a birthday at work.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 27 November, 2009, 12:58:06 pm
Well done that man for restoring some positivity  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 27 November, 2009, 05:19:09 pm
Quote from: Marco Stefano on 27 November, 2009, 12:33:43 pm
1 beautiful sunrise, 4 herons, 5 gamboling deer, guillemots, a white pheasant (weird), a herd of eastern Europeans crop picking, and a tailwind.


Anna par-tridge inna pear tree!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 27 November, 2009, 11:25:28 pm
First full week of commuting by bike since moving several weeks ago. It's only 6.5 miles each way but I have to admit that I am feeling it in the legs today. Probably more a function of my meagre recent mileage more than anything. Suprising how much benefit I am feeling from a mere half-hour flat ride twice a day :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 28 November, 2009, 09:00:21 am
Boy was I glad when Friday came around, the wind has been taking liberties all week, so much so that at times it felt like my brakes were binding.

Mind you, having a throat like a turkey's bum in a blizzard doesn't help.

I had part of my route to myself on the way home yesterday, courtesy of a three car shunt on the A24 near North Cheam.  Twas quite a luxury being able to go a few hundred yards without being squeezed going up Stonecot Hill.   

Judging by the extensive shouting and arm waving there were no injuries, thankfully.  I did enjoy the shrill cry of 'but you were on da phone'.......  ::-) I'm beginning to think that car engines are designed to cut out if the driver is not using a mobile phone.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 30 November, 2009, 11:46:47 am
Chickened out today  :-[ It was just too grim at 0730 (plus my journey home will not commence until 9).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 30 November, 2009, 11:54:54 am
Today wasn't too bad. It wasn't pleasant (it was wet and very gusty), but I dunno. It was OK. Certainly better than having to use the car.

Not looking forward to tomorrow though. Forecast is for zero and sub-zero temperatures in this area which means my preferred (unclassified) route is likely to have iced up patches - run off from fields mainly - after all the wet.  Means I'll have to use the 'main' road.  Bum.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 30 November, 2009, 01:10:16 pm
it was grim at chez vorsprung up to 730am and then it stopped raining in time for me leaving for work a bit late

Nasty northerly on the way in so I arrived at work 10 minutes late, which is unusual

Blue sky now, although a bit cold

Frost forecast for tonight
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 30 November, 2009, 01:20:38 pm
It was grim (but nowhere near as grim as Crawley / Faygate (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=25678.msg483566#msg483566) in the early hours of last Saturday morning) as I emerged from the Greenwich foot tunnel and headed homeward at 06:30 this morning.

A feeling of inexplicable smugness washed over me as wove my way through the gridlocked traffic on Creek Road, and onward to the hinterlands of Forest Hill.

The northbound Blackwall Tunnel (being b0rked) will ensure that this mayhem will continue for the next few days.....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 30 November, 2009, 01:22:46 pm
Chickened out today but I'll be on the bike the rest of the week. Time to move from knee warmers to leg warmers.

Saved from buying a 7 day train ticket (cheaper than 4 individual days) by not having my photocard with me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 30 November, 2009, 01:23:16 pm
I have an medic appointment tomorrow which means I will be out of the office for about 3 hours.
I have a choice- take the day off (it counts as sick) and spend the rest of it riding, or take the car, and return to work afterwards.
Quote from: TheLurker on 30 November, 2009, 11:54:54 am
Forecast is for zero and sub-zero temperatures
Quote from: vorsprung on 30 November, 2009, 01:10:16 pm
Frost forecast for tonight
Why does this (usually easy) choice fall when the weather forecast is for frost? It's just not fair (stamps foot, petulant pout).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 30 November, 2009, 01:24:49 pm
The floods and wind ensured that I was late this morning. But not as late as I would have been had I driven in :smug:. My usual average speed is around 13 mph - todays was 9.7 mph :(. Still, it was slow and damp - but not miserable :D.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 30 November, 2009, 02:20:13 pm
Well it was absolutely peeing stair rods this morning with wind to match, I can honestly say that the weather didn't bother me in the slightest. 

What did really make my blood pressure rise was the moton behaviour.  I think the screaming overtake by white van thug this morning was the worst yet, we're talking millimetres.

Surely they can't be that thick to fail to notice the conditions, or are they to insulated in their little boxes?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 30 November, 2009, 03:12:27 pm
Can't see out through the steamed-up windows, so have no idea of the weather or other road users.  Hence the high speed & liberal use of horns. ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 30 November, 2009, 03:23:16 pm
Quote from: fboab on 30 November, 2009, 01:23:16 pm
I have an medic appointment tomorrow which means I will be out of the office for about 3 hours.
I have a choice- take the day off (it counts as sick) and spend the rest of it riding, or take the car, and return to work afterwards.
Quote from: TheLurker on 30 November, 2009, 11:54:54 am
Forecast is for zero and sub-zero temperatures
Quote from: vorsprung on 30 November, 2009, 01:10:16 pm
Frost forecast for tonight
Why does this (usually easy) choice fall when the weather forecast is for frost? It's just not fair (stamps foot, petulant pout).
Yebbut, the frost n' ice'll be gone by mid-morning. It's only going to be a prob. if you've got to leave the house at doubleohtoobloodyearly to go to work...  throw the sickie and go out riding in the crisp cold sunny air after your appt.  You know you'll feel better for it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 30 November, 2009, 09:09:06 pm
River's in flood.  So while the riverside path under the bridge was only under 3" of water, I knew there was another 2" of mud hiding there.  So I went the long way round.

This was reported a year ago, here: http://www.clearthattrail.org.uk/obstruction/897 (http://www.clearthattrail.org.uk/obstruction/897)

But one council worker with a shovel and 20 minutes cannot be spared.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: geoff on 30 November, 2009, 11:43:23 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 30 November, 2009, 11:54:54 am
Today wasn't too bad. It wasn't pleasant (it was wet and very gusty), but I dunno. It was OK. Certainly better than having to use the car.

Not looking forward to tomorrow though. Forecast is for zero and sub-zero temperatures in this area which means my preferred (unclassified) route is likely to have iced up patches - run off from fields mainly - after all the wet.  Means I'll have to use the 'main' road.  Bum.


Aye - gritters going out as I came home tonight (Bet they won't be up our lane until after any snow! So that'll be er...February?)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 01 December, 2009, 08:00:26 am
Well, it was cold and the puddles were iced over but it wasn't anywhere near as bad here as the doom-mongers at the Met. Office would have had us believe.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 December, 2009, 08:57:20 am
Icy in stretches, but not too bad.  Nice ride, except for the motons. >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: FyPuNK on 01 December, 2009, 08:59:30 am
Me ears dropped off this morning  :o bloody hell its cold but at least the wind has died down, not to self, get a silly headband on me crimbo list.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 01 December, 2009, 12:01:52 pm
A cold one this morning (below freezing), but wrapped up in two layers of tights, long sleeve base layer and long sleeve jersey under an eVent jacket, windproof balaclava and thick skiing gloves I was nice and toasty (once my face had gone numb enough not to notice the cold). Winter has definitely arrived.
My wife commented that I was mad cycling in (as I was cleaning the ice off her car windows) rather than taking the Jag, but it was a lovely, crisp morning to be out and only the odd bit of slippiness.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 December, 2009, 12:06:57 pm
I'd rather slip on the ice with the momentum of a cyclist than with the momentum of a ton or so of metal.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 01 December, 2009, 12:12:25 pm
Quote from: clarion on 01 December, 2009, 12:06:57 pm
I'd rather slip on the ice with the momentum of a cyclist than with the momentum of a ton or so of metal.
Providing there's no-one sitting in a ton of metal 3' off your back wheel. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 December, 2009, 12:13:00 pm
Aye, given that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 01 December, 2009, 01:28:00 pm
Quote from: clarion on 01 December, 2009, 08:57:20 am
Icy in stretches, but not too bad.  Nice ride, except for the motons. >:(

Ditto but I'll add a lovely sunset and two grazing deer.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 01 December, 2009, 01:46:31 pm
Loverly sunrise.  Red sky in the morning....

Little bit of ice up the lanes to walk around.  But most of the water from the past few days had dried off the road before it got to freezing

Glad I wore the extra fleece, i wasn't too hot with it on.  Wore my biggest gloves.  My toes suffered.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 01 December, 2009, 04:46:30 pm
Looks like I am in for another tough 20 miles tonight.....  :)

(have to stay a little later to attend a meeting at 5:30 so will probably be in the road until about 9pm...  :P)

(http://www.meiring.org.uk/pdm/images/wx011209.png)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 01 December, 2009, 05:24:51 pm
Quote from: FyPuNK on 01 December, 2009, 08:59:30 am
Me ears dropped off this morning  :o bloody hell its cold but at least the wind has died down, not to self, get a silly headband on me crimbo list.

Get a Buff! Shame I don't think there are any yacf Buffs left.

Great for keeping ears/face/neck/head warm. Amazon have loads or you could get onr free with CTC membership - maybe...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 01 December, 2009, 06:51:58 pm
I went for the YACF Buff and exta base layer today. Very nippy first thing this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 01 December, 2009, 08:24:35 pm
Quote from: pdm on 01 December, 2009, 04:46:30 pm
Looks like I am in for another tough 20 miles tonight.....  :)

(have to stay a little later to attend a meeting at 5:30 so will probably be in the road until about 9pm...  :P)

(http://www.meiring.org.uk/pdm/images/wx011209.png)

Not too bad axserly....
Went sooner and a little quicker than expected.
The wind speed was about right, but I had snow flurries on the Peaks rather than rain - very pretty!  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 01 December, 2009, 09:11:07 pm
Full winter gear today. Two layers+aldi jacket. Fleecy tights, winter boots, buff. Not cold, but not much sweat either.

No ice on the road. I'd put the ice spikes on the MTB last night just in case, but went on my commuter, as the roads were bone dry. Loads of frozen puddles though - I didn't cycle in them :-)

It's raining tonight, so if it freezes it'll definitely be the ice tyres tomorrow. However, forecast is for a low of +3
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Frenchie on 01 December, 2009, 09:18:11 pm
Ice, in my street, at 6:30.

Good on major roads afterwards. In fact a fine, dry and cold morning. A bit slower than usual at about 60' to 65'.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: aidan.f on 01 December, 2009, 09:38:04 pm
Quote
It's raining tonight, so if it freezes it'll definitely be the ice tyres tomorrow. However, forecast is for a low of +3

Where in this country can you get/use ice studs?

700 35C's? I'm interested!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 01 December, 2009, 09:48:58 pm
Really nice at 0650, just one wobbly moment when I thought "I'm on black ice here.  Better not turn the corner.  Just keep in a straight line onto the pavement", but apart from that it was glorious, really frosty and fresh.  Homeward at 2100 on the other hand was slightly warmer but with a rubbish head-and-sidewind blowing me all over the road.  Definitely better than the car though, I'm really enjoying my tea!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 01 December, 2009, 10:13:08 pm
Quote from: Sleepy on 01 December, 2009, 09:38:04 pm
Quote
It's raining tonight, so if it freezes it'll definitely be the ice tyres tomorrow. However, forecast is for a low of +3

Where in this country can you get/use ice studs?

700 35C's? I'm interested!

I got mine here... (http://www.dotbike.com/ProductsF.aspx?FIND=marathon+winter) (DotBike - Marathon Winter tyres)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 01 December, 2009, 10:58:07 pm
Quote from: Sleepy on 01 December, 2009, 09:38:04 pm
Quote
It's raining tonight, so if it freezes it'll definitely be the ice tyres tomorrow. However, forecast is for a low of +3

Where in this country can you get/use ice studs?

700 35C's? I'm interested!

Little larger at 38C
Schwalbe Snow Stud Tyre 700 x 38c (http://www.ukbikestore.co.uk/product/139/tysess38/schwalbe-snow-stud-tyre-700-x-38c.html)

EDIT:
and one at 35C but out of stock. Supposedly a better tyre:

   Schwalbe Marathon Winter Performance Wire On Tyre - from £33.98 | Dotbike
 (http://www.dotbike.com/ProductsP7596.aspx?utm_source=google&utm_medium=base&utm_campaign=FGL)

For more info, see:
Studded Bicycle Tires (http://www.peterwhitecycles.com/studdedtires.asp)

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 01 December, 2009, 11:18:40 pm
I'm just checking the flood warnings on my route tomorrow.  Hmmm.... I may not get to that site, and if I do, I suspect it'll be with wet feet!  Or I could cheat, go late, and catch a bus.... which is no more likely to get me there than the bike, but I'd be dry finding out.  Shall I risk it?  On the bright side, the bike is so utterly jiggered that a good soaking up to the axles can't actually do it any significant harm (and I handed in all the paperwork for the C2W new one today!).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 01 December, 2009, 11:54:33 pm
Ooh - which one did you choose in the end?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 02 December, 2009, 06:47:36 am
Bus v bike?  Still not decided.  New bike?  The Trek Valencia, not the WSD one.  I met it last week - I made my mind up on Monday so went in and they ordered it mid-morning, and it was in the shop and built ready for me to try for size by Tuesday close of play!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 02 December, 2009, 07:31:08 am
Coo urr gosh...wot a beatiful day. Hello moon, hello mist, hello birds. Even Peason my grate freind who hav a face lik a squished tomato cannot dent my cheery mood* after this morning's ride in. I may even shake Fotherington-Tomas hand....


*Tho' the beaks may. Chiz, chiz.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 02 December, 2009, 08:01:42 am
<savagely stabbing alarm button under desk>

"Okay fella, whatever you say, that's fine. You're right, aren't the birds beautiful?"

<Help, help, emergency Unit 8, Unit 8!!>
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 02 December, 2009, 08:59:12 am
I rode in.  I got within a stone's throw (well, nearly) and discovered a very_large_puddle.  We aren't talking the BB getting wet, more like the mudgaurds being underwater!  A very cute little duck family were swimming backwards and forwards across the road. 

Fortunately there was a gang of mums on bikes who had just accompanied their small people round to the school bus, who showed me alternate route around - classic NCN path - a good half mile detour to travel approximately 200 yards but with the huge bonus of a being higher up!  And I started my day with a natter with other people on bikes, one of which (bikes, not people) looked rather like the WSD of my new one :-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 December, 2009, 09:10:35 am
Quote from: TheLurker on 02 December, 2009, 07:31:08 am
Coo urr gosh...wot a beatiful day. Hello moon, hello mist, hello birds. Even Peason my grate freind who hav a face lik a squished tomato cannot dent my cheery mood* after this morning's ride in. I may even shake Fotherington-Tomas hand....


*Tho' the beaks may. Chiz, chiz.

Willans & Searle live on ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 02 December, 2009, 04:51:17 pm
I nearly came off on a combination of wet leaves, uneven ground and possibly a pothole hidden by being filled with wet leaves, but the l33t bike skills I didn't know I had came into play and I managed to correct.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 December, 2009, 10:18:43 pm
Glad you're OK.  That chutney is horrid :-[

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 December, 2009, 10:26:29 pm
Weird and upsetting sight on the way home. 

Wet.  Very very wet.  Rain siling down and washing the road in waves.

A car comes up behind me into the middle of three lanes making an odd noise.  I look round and see that the driver overtaking me has a completely flat tyre.  We stop side by side at the lights.  I gesture and shout 'You've got a flat tyre!'.

The passenger wipes a bit of the heavy steam off the inside of the window ::-)  Then she nods and mouths 'yes'.

'Well, if you know, why don't you do something about it?'

That made the cyclist beside me giggle. ;D

We set off from the lights, with the driver accelerating, in the wet, to 30mph! :o :o :o >:(

I give up.  I don't know how any of those knobheads out there passed their test.  I just wish we had a way of getting them off the roads. 

And now the closing figures:
Idiocy is up; Good sense has dropped again, and motorised Red Light Jumping is at an all-time high.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 02 December, 2009, 11:26:50 pm
I had exactly that experience once, except it (a Merc) had two flat tyres, both on the left. I pointed this out to the driver and she said, "Oh yes, I did hit a kerb a bit heavily a while ago", then wound her window up and carried on, to drop the kids at school I presume. I didn't know how to react having never considered for even a nanosecond that anyone would even consider driving on with one flat tyre.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 03 December, 2009, 03:49:55 am
In Gloucester's Westgate St many years ago, before it was fully pedestrianised but after various chicanes had been put in to divert most traffic away from it, I saw a BMW driver hit one of these chicaney-pinch point devices and burst both tyres on the same side. They got out with curses and set to changing the front flat, either undeterred by or unaware of the rear puncture. Or perhaps they really did have two spare tyres. Still, I suppose as a get-you-home measure the front is the more important.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 03 December, 2009, 11:16:53 am
My experience on the way home was horrific, it was peeing down with large amounts of acumulated water all over the shop and still the cockjuggling smegheads tore along Mr Toad stylee.  The percentage of shaves was even higher than normal.

I'm afraid I've decided to get a helmet cam.  Won't achieve bugger all but might be mildly cathartic and at £11.98 from eBay won't break the bank.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 08 December, 2009, 08:39:35 am
I saw a shooting star.
I didn't wish on it. 
It may have been space hardware and that would have been wrong.  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 08 December, 2009, 10:35:54 am
Took a short cut under the flyover, a driver was reversing out of a parking space. I waved at her to stop, she had a three foot branch stuck in her door, the branch was scraping along the road. She opened the door and I kicked the branch away. "I wondered what that noise was!" she said.


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 08 December, 2009, 12:52:29 pm
On the new chicanes they are building on th A473. I moved to the left, I moved to the right, I moved to the left.  A splendid  piece of middle of the road cycling with cars behind.  Sometimes you need to be confident ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 08 December, 2009, 01:00:39 pm
Marvellous one last Wednesday, albeit in my motorcar.  They are widening the A414 on the southern edge of Harlow, which means lane restrictions and Big Queues.  Because I am Nice, I stopped to:


Seeking to take advantage of the gap in the traffic, Mr A Dickinavauxhall, who was second in the queue behind the postie, dumps the clutch and floors it while looking at me.  Out of his side window.

Thus he failed to notice the postie's Transit, until the latter rudely arrested his progress after some three feet.

I laughed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 08 December, 2009, 01:31:25 pm
I sometimes think that any child, being driven by some of the mums I see on my route, might want to consider having the ir DNA wiped and replaced with something a bit more promising. Bad driving doesn't even get close, it's just complete failure to observe even simple things.
The woman who clattered her offside wing mirror down four or five parked cars this morning being a good example - she didn't notice because she was on the phone.... BMW X5 natch.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 08 December, 2009, 08:36:05 pm
Quote from: alexb on 08 December, 2009, 01:31:25 pm
I sometimes think that any child, being driven by some of the mums I see on my route, might want to consider having the ir DNA wiped and replaced with something a bit more promising. Bad driving doesn't even get close, it's just complete failure to observe even simple things.
The woman who clattered her offside wing mirror down four or five parked cars this morning being a good example - she didn't notice because she was on the phone.... BMW X5 natch.

That'd be enough for me to save the video and leave my details on each of the parked cars.  I'd want to see her insurance premiums hurting for that carelessness.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 08 December, 2009, 09:17:10 pm
On the commute today:
Nothing much happened. - As usual.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 09 December, 2009, 04:12:27 am
On foot, 28 minutes door to door. But then I have to wait an average of 3 minutes for the lift to arrive. We're only on the first floor, so I wouldn't take it if the stairs weren't closed off as a "security certification" measure.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 09 December, 2009, 08:26:36 am
On the way home I have one roundabout. I had to wait, then as I'm crossing, some f*ckwit bus driver starts inching across so in my calm and measured fashion I adopt banshee tones, glare, and screech at him (with no hope of being heard, or, given the highwayman buff, lip-read) 'no you fricking don't, twat face' only to hear fellow cyclist behind me snigger 'you tell him'.
I never see other cyclists, never. Where did he come from? He went the other way, but I was so shocked (and a leetle embarassed) I didn't get a chance to say hello.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 09 December, 2009, 02:14:30 pm
Oh no!  :( :( :(

I nearly posted something here about how I'd enjoyed cyling through total grid lock in Brum this morning.  Nothing but me moving for miles.
Glad I didn't
BBC News - Cyclist dies after bus collision (http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/west_midlands/8403159.stm)
 :( :( :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 10 December, 2009, 01:03:56 am
On my commute home this evening (11pm) I met a sensible policeman.

Chelsea Bridge was closed, as far as I could tell for an RTA at the southern end, and they had a police cars blocking traffic at the embankment (northern) end traffic lights.

I got off and asked "Is it OK if I walk across the bridge?", to which one of the clearly bored officers said "You can cycle across, so long as you stay on the footpath".  Given there were about 2 pedestrians around, and the footpath is about fifteen foot wide, there wasn't much risk of a collision, but it's nice that I was treated like I wasn't about to mow down everyone in sight. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 10 December, 2009, 08:17:53 am
Quote from: Wendy on 08 December, 2009, 08:36:05 pm
Quote from: alexb on 08 December, 2009, 01:31:25 pm
I sometimes think that any child, being driven by some of the mums I see on my route, might want to consider having the ir DNA wiped and replaced with something a bit more promising. Bad driving doesn't even get close, it's just complete failure to observe even simple things.
The woman who clattered her offside wing mirror down four or five parked cars this morning being a good example - she didn't notice because she was on the phone.... BMW X5 natch.

That'd be enough for me to save the video and leave my details on each of the parked cars.  I'd want to see her insurance premiums hurting for that carelessness.

Believe me, it's times like this I wished I had one...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: recumbentim on 10 December, 2009, 07:58:35 pm
Did one commute this week on tue. It had rained and froze.Hence streaches of sheets of ice before gritters got round. Three cars totalled and the rest going at 21 MPH.
Did it on carbon MTB with road tyres and not usual recumbent , and I wore a helmet.
Solwest 17 miles yet this year but most exciting.
Phoned the  Council to complain about gritters and got long waffle about times and routes and buget limitations.
  So couldn,t be bothered asking if they would grit the cycle path bits ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: FyPuNK on 11 December, 2009, 08:38:39 am
A stunning but very cold morning this mornng. The bad news, as I went round a corner I felt the back tyre wobble a little, thought it was the frost/ice on the road but soon realized it wasn't, looking down and the back wheel looked buckled and on inspection I seemed of broken a spoke. Pooo
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 11 December, 2009, 10:05:54 am
Quote from: xrtimothy on 10 December, 2009, 07:58:35 pm
  So couldn,t be bothered asking if they would grit the cycle path bits ???

Take your own version of grit:


   Schwalbe Marathon Winter Performance Wire On Tyre - from &pound;33.98 | Dotbike
 (http://www.dotbike.com/ProductsP7596.aspx?utm_source=google&utm_medium=base&utm_campaign=FGL)

I'm waiting for the first bit of icy weather and I'll be diving for the hackbike in the shed which has these fitted.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 11 December, 2009, 11:08:21 am
Last night I nearly came acropper.

Feeling pressured by the twatinnacar sitting about 2mm from my rear wheel, I misjudged my line into a left turn. I knew that I could safely pedal through the corner, but what with the line-misjudgement, I was a smidge closer to the kerb than is safe!

Inside pedal strikes the kerb and with a sickening lurch the rear of my bike was fired into the air, with the front wheel remaining on the road :o It stepped out so far that when it landed I nearly flipped over sideways as the bike righted itself. Luckily I was riding the full-susser as my bum remained in contact with the saddle the whole time - my nads would not have enjoyed the crunch of the landing! When I got home I checked the pedal - can't even see where it hit the kerb :thumbsup: and the rear shock (which has a rubber ring round it to show how much travel is being used). Normally I use 2/3 of the available travel, mostly by riding over speedbumps without lifting off the saddle, but after the somewhat exciting landing the rubber ring was right on the end of the stanchion - I had used the whole travel of the shock :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 11 December, 2009, 12:53:35 pm
Came in on the MTB with snow stud tyres this morning.

There was not much ice about as it turned out, but I'm not taking any chances this year. You don't need much to fall off on.

But it is REALLY heavy going on that bike. I felt I had gone twice as far as normal.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 11 December, 2009, 01:22:48 pm
Quote from: tonycollinet on 11 December, 2009, 12:53:35 pm
Came in on the MTB with snow stud tyres this morning.

There was not much ice about as it turned out, but I'm not taking any chances this year. You don't need much to fall off on.

But it is REALLY heavy going on that bike. I felt I had gone twice as far as normal.

The Schwalbe Marathon Winter tyres say to do 50km or so on normal roads to run them in before using them on snow/ice, so I used my hackbike for commuting for a few days.

Average speed was down by about 3kph on normal, but then it's a slightly heavier bike and I was on flat pedals rather than clipless (which prompted me to fit the M424 pedals I had lying around). They were also pumped up quite hard so the studs were hardly in contact with the ground. With less pressure in the tyres (like you're supposed to do on snow/ice to bring the studs into play) I can imagine it'll be much harder work (but much more fun than the alternative of sliding on your arse).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 December, 2009, 01:36:13 pm
Nice & cold this morning, and pleasantly foggy too.  I bet the architects of the big building at Elephant & Castle almost came in their pants when they saw it disappearing up majestically into the mist...

It was a fun ride, without the full quota of usual motorised numpties.  And plenty of serious riders - many women included :thumbsup: 

And catching a glimpse down a side street as I glanced backwards over my shoulder, I noticed that you can see Battersea Power Station from my commute.  Not easily, but it is there. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mattc on 11 December, 2009, 03:18:08 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 11 December, 2009, 01:22:48 pm
Quote from: tonycollinet on 11 December, 2009, 12:53:35 pm
Came in on the MTB with snow stud tyres this morning.

There was not much ice about as it turned out, but I'm not taking any chances this year. You don't need much to fall off on.

But it is REALLY heavy going on that bike. I felt I had gone twice as far as normal.

The Schwalbe Marathon Winter tyres say to do 50km or so on normal roads to run them in before using them on snow/ice, so I used my hackbike for commuting for a few days.

Average speed was down by about 3kph on normal, but then it's a slightly heavier bike and I was on flat pedals rather than clipless (which prompted me to fit the M424 pedals I had lying around). They were also pumped up quite hard so the studs were hardly in contact with the ground. With less pressure in the tyres (like you're supposed to do on snow/ice to bring the studs into play) I can imagine it'll be much harder work (but much more fun than the alternative of sliding on your arse).

After phoning 70 suppliers I finally got a studded tyre deliverd by Wiggle - about 2 days after last winter's ice melted for good. [AND they took my money for priority delivery - grrr... ]

So not used in anger yet. I need a test track - a strip of ice with soft stuff either side! I think I'll be crapping myself if I go straight out on an icy road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 11 December, 2009, 04:09:44 pm
First wheelspin this winter due to ice this morning - otherwise a very nice ride in....
Now I just need to get that hack on the B2W scheme so that I can have a bike with the studded tyres on it ready to go rather than faff about changing wheels...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 16 December, 2009, 12:52:32 pm
First wheel spins for me this morning too.  A bit slippy in places but I soldiered on.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 16 December, 2009, 01:07:33 pm
Coldest day so far for my penultimate ride in Central Park crisp but dry so no ice.

Even got given some space by a bus on the way. Their usual technique is to overtake, signal and pull in front of me. This morning the bus overtook, signaled and then slowed to let me undertake. Once teh driver's intentions were obvious I rode into the gap that they'd given and gave a big :thumbsup: as I passed
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 16 December, 2009, 06:28:35 pm
Very nippy today, only negative was the single cell organisms in the white van who felt the need to scream Gah! at a million decibels as they overtook closely.

Fair play to them though, to pull a stunt like that at 07.15 takes true dedication to stupidity.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 December, 2009, 10:48:48 pm
At the bottom of Balham Hill on the way home, I saw a scooter on its side at a junction.  Sacrificing much-needed momentum, I stopped to check what was happenng.

A young lad - about 18 or 19 - on a Claud Butler aluminium framed BSO road bike seemed to have collided with the scooter in some way.  Despite a pringled front wheel, a completely dead set of forks, and possibly a ruined frame, he seemed (and claimed) to be unhurt.  Nothing I could do for the bike, and my first aid kit wasn't required, so I rode off & left them to it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 16 December, 2009, 11:15:00 pm
Went in by train in order to christmas shop after work. Was jealous of everyone onna bike :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 16 December, 2009, 11:19:04 pm
SLOOOOOW commute home this evening...
Cold and lots of uphills into 15-20 mph headwinds with driving sleet.
No snow this time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 17 December, 2009, 08:40:54 am
Flat tyre.
Sleet.
No street lights.
Phone not working.
Pants.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 17 December, 2009, 08:59:30 am
Quote from: fboab on 17 December, 2009, 08:40:54 am
...
Pants.

Bit cold for that!  Longs would have been better.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 December, 2009, 09:32:37 am
Cold & a bit of ice this morning, but I was soon onto the gritted routes, so it was just a cold, wet ride.

Fun.  But my feet are still cold :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 17 December, 2009, 09:52:04 am
Not very chilly but the paths were like skating rinks (especially through the cemetry). I ran in this morning as I will be cycling home tonight on a New! Shiny! Bike!

..d
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 17 December, 2009, 10:06:11 am
I had to pop into my GP first thing, to get Flu and Swine Flu jabs, and the residential road to the practice was slightly icy on the way there.  Fifteen minutes later, on the way back, that smidgen of ice had gone.  It was a little brisk though, and my feet could do with being warmer, and I could have done without the Northerly headwind.

The forecast for later isn't entirely promising, so I'll have to keep an eye on things in case I need to cycle home through the snow.

Still, that can be quite fun.  I remember cycling home 10-11ish a few years back, and it had been snowing for an hour or two, and the roads of London were empty.  Normally at that time there is still a smattering of vehicles around, but the mixture of late in the evening and snow seemed to entirely clear the roads.  It was still easily cyclable though. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 December, 2009, 10:13:16 am
I noticed that the traffic lights at Amen Corner in Tooting were out last night and this morning.  I expected snarl-up, but the usual queues were not there! 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 17 December, 2009, 10:14:50 am
Quote from: mattc on 11 December, 2009, 03:18:08 pm


After phoning 70 suppliers I finally got a studded tyre deliverd by Wiggle - about 2 days after last winter's ice melted for good. [AND they took my money for priority delivery - grrr... ]

So not used in anger yet. I need a test track - a strip of ice with soft stuff either side! I think I'll be crapping myself if I go straight out on an icy road.

Just get them on the bike and ride them.  At extreme angles they will be dodgy but otherwise you will love them. Apart from the noise. The same sort of noise that a dog with long nails makes as it clatters across a marble floor.

Must get mine out for this winter.

..d
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 17 December, 2009, 10:35:53 am
The bit of paper that came attached to my Schwalbe Marathon Winter studded tyres said they should be run in on concrete/tarmac roads for 40km or so before first use on ice/snow.

I dug out the hackbike with studded tyres this morning as I'm guessing it's going to throw it down later on tonight (playing 5-a-side then going to the pub) and the trains usually go up the spout the first major snowfall (before they remember how to deal with it).

Hard work with 8kg of stuff in panniers and a far more upright riding position.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 17 December, 2009, 10:43:26 am
I fell off on a patch of ice.  Big fall and have skinned my right hip, banged knee and shoulder.
The white car-derived van behind me managed to stop and he was really nice.  Made sure I was okay before he left.
My new Assos tights are brilliantly unscathed but the hip underneath is a mess.
My Foska Bones jacket once again got scuffed but is so tough that the skin underneath is unscathed.
I walked the 1/2 mile left of this road as it was trecherous and several cars / vans stopped to ask if I was okay and several that recognised me as the regular nutter offered to put the bike in the van and give me a lift  :thumbsup:  Bless them.
Of course I declined and limped gingerly into work.  The hot shower was painful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 December, 2009, 10:45:05 am
Poor GruB! :(

Hope that all heals soon.

How's the bike?*



* Note restraint in not asking that first ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 17 December, 2009, 10:47:40 am
Quote from: Grub on 17 December, 2009, 10:43:26 am
I fell off on a patch of ice.  Big fall and have skinned my right hip, banged knee and shoulder.
The white car-derived van behind me managed to stop and he was really nice.  Made sure I was okay before he left.
My new Assos tights are brilliantly unscathed but the hip underneath is a mess.
My Foska Bones jacket once again got scuffed but is so tough that the skin underneath is unscathed.
I walked the 1/2 mile left of this road as it was trecherous and several cars / vans stopped to ask if I was okay and several that recognised me as the regular nutter offered to put the bike in the van and give me a lift  :thumbsup:  Bless them.
Of course I declined and limped gingerly into work.  The hot shower was painful.


Have a kissy better  :-*


And one for the bike...  :-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 17 December, 2009, 10:47:58 am
Silly me, forgot to mention that.
The small clip thing on the top of my STIs snapped off.  I think it is only decorative but will see if Shimano will wing me a new one anyway.
Scratches to rear QR squewer and some marks to my derailleur.
Carradice Nelson right hand pocket is also scuffed.  At least it is only scuffing. It was so slippery that I slid rather than grate ( except for my load bearing thigh that is ).  Grated is the best word to describe it now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 December, 2009, 10:49:29 am
Both you & the bike seem to have come out of that without much damage. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 17 December, 2009, 10:49:57 am
Quote from: clarion on 16 December, 2009, 10:48:48 pm
A young lad - about 18 or 19 - on a Claud Butler aluminium framed BSO road bike
What have we got to that a Claud Butler can be described as a BSO?
Is this a case of another venerable old firm going down the drain
or are your standards becoming so demanding???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 December, 2009, 11:00:41 am
It is a sad case of a once-proud brand (built, by coincidence, quite close to where that incident took place, in Clapham) reduced to merely a brand name, clagged onto cheap mass-produced chunks of aluminium shipped in from the east.

For other brands reduced from former glory, see Raleigh, Dawes (to a certain extent), Falcon, British Eagle etc etc etc... :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 17 December, 2009, 11:07:56 am
Sad. I bought a Dawes when I was 17. my first "grown up" bike. It was pretty much bottom of the range, but certainly back then Dawes were considered to make some pretty good bikes and Claudes were better. Ah, but I'm not a teenager anymore [shuffles off down memory's sad corridors]. That Dawes Lightning is still going strong, btw, albeit with some new parts.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moloko on 17 December, 2009, 11:08:30 am
Bleeding 'ell GruB.  :facepalm:

You've easily got more scar tissue than Robocop.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 17 December, 2009, 12:03:19 pm
Yesterday evening's commute appeared to have been diverted through Idiotsville. First I had to brake hard to avoid a smidsy because the driver didn't even bother to look when pulling out in front me. I could tell this because the back of her head was clearly illuminated by my lights. Evidently, the poor thing was so keen to get home and out of the cold rain, that she didn't have time to glance to the right before turning left.

Second one, exactly the same - except this time the car had so much condensation on the side windows that the driver couldn't see anything. I just managed to slip by the front of the car since this one wasn't stopping. And then, to add insult to near-injury, upon finally noticing a cyclist appear as though by magic in front of them, they beeped me (there was so much condensation on the windows that I couldn't see who or what was attempting to drive). Now I normally avoid altercations with motorists and adopt a zen constitution, but I may have yelled at them loud enough and made sufficiently rude gestures to indicate my opinions on their driving abilities. This evidently gave them a fright since they zoomed off indicating the wrong way, and nearly crashed into not one but two cars as they darted out onto Sydenham High Street. I did feel slightly guilty for entire femtoseconds. Last seen fleeing toward Crystal Palace still indicating.

I won't mention the car driver who just stopped dead in front of me. To continue his phone conversation from the middle of road.

Now, I should say that I have two very bright lights on the front of my bike and I'm dressed like a giant sherbet lemon. A giant angry sherbet lemon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 17 December, 2009, 01:04:55 pm
Idiotsville  :thumbsup:  I like that terminology.  I shall use it if you don't mind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 18 December, 2009, 09:01:41 am
I went the shortest route possible - all 17.8 miles of it.  No real issues. Motorists were very kind and the only real ice was in the gutters / verges.  Most of the road surface was visibly dry.  Gritters had been out too.

The wind was the big problem though.  Such a strong northerly when you are riding west does make it tricky. 

It must have been cold as I wore my Gore face cover and my glasses did not steam up.  That is the litmus test for that bit of kit as it is well good.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 December, 2009, 09:27:14 am
It was a bit dicy at first as I rolled down the roads, but I quickly got to roads that had either been gritted or else cleared by motor traffic.  Unlike February, when we got a foot of snow overnight, we haven't had anything like the snowfall of Southend or North Yorks.

Some patches of ice here & there, and a lot of stupid, stupid tossers in cars.  And by, that were a wind!  But a good ride.  And brings me up to within touching distance of 8000km on Bikejournal.  My work colleagues can't quite believe I rode here, and there's barely any snow or ice in SE1. ;D

Popping out at lunchtime to the bank & cafe, and I'll enjoy every bit of it. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 18 December, 2009, 09:37:21 am
Last night's ride home - exhausting. Not much snow about until I passed the A1, then it was blowing horizontal into my face. I realised I was a bit tired when I veered off the edge of the road, whilst on the tribars. A few frantic "Oh Sh! Oh Sh! Oh Sh!" moments before I brought bike back under control. Stayed off the tribars for the rest of the ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 18 December, 2009, 11:11:14 am
In some respects this morning was worse than last nights commute, in others ways easier.  Clearer roads, and less blown snow, but more idiots, and more slushy stuff at the side of the road.

I had to walk about half of the first half mile, a few of the quieter roads had had the snow compressed enough by cars to make a slush icey slippery death trap, but once I got to West Croydon station, most of the roads were clear.

After Tooting Bec Common, there was actually very little snow, and in place little evidence that there had been snow.  The only point were I almost lost it was on the very Northern end of Clapham Common, where the cycle path zigs across the footpath to get to the correct point on the traffic lights, and there was still a little slushy ice there.  The wheels were slipping from under me briefly, which was good for getting the heart going!

Like Clarion said though, phew the wind!  At least it should be easy on the way home!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 18 December, 2009, 11:49:01 am
Quote from: TimO on 18 December, 2009, 11:11:14 am

 The only point were I almost lost it was on the very Northern end of Clapham Common, where the cycle path zigs across the footpath to get to the correct point on the traffic lights, and there was still a little slushy ice there.  The wheels were slipping from under me briefly, which was good for getting the heart going!


As usualy, the worst ice was on the cycle paths!. I saw someone fall off at exactly the same point Tim had his moment. I also had a fairly sketchy moment at the same place.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 18 December, 2009, 11:54:16 am
Not too bad this morning.  Changed the route slightly to avoid decending a hill on a minor road that ends in a T junction with a main road.  (Last year I slithered sideways right out into the flow of traffic! - The drivers would have thought I was being rather over assertive had it not been for the look of panic on my face)

This morning was really really cold.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 18 December, 2009, 12:47:00 pm
No snow round here - but due to the temperature, I still took the MTB/studded tyres.

But Damn that is hard work - tyres are only around 30psi, cos that is what is needed for effective grip on ice, but it makes for a much harder commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 18 December, 2009, 01:12:49 pm
Quote from: tonycollinet on 18 December, 2009, 12:47:00 pm
No snow round here - but due to the temperature, I still took the MTB/studded tyres.

But Damn that is hard work - tyres are only around 30psi, cos that is what is needed for effective grip on ice, but it makes for a much harder commute.

Studded tyres? 30psi? Mine used to grip at almost any sensible pressure for the terrain. For ice I'd be riding at around 50psi.

Or do you not mean studded, but knobbly?

..d
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: FatBloke on 18 December, 2009, 01:58:31 pm
Well that was fun!!  The only downside was having to swap tyres this morning as the mtb still had it's summer slicks on.

Only incident was outside the office when I was nearly taken out by another member of staff in a 4x4 who was confused because the entrance to the car park was coned off.  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: resus1uk on 18 December, 2009, 02:21:26 pm
Although the high Wold was blocked until now, the lower parts were passable on the trike into & around town. Best bits were the untreated roads & the bridlepath on my usual route.

A few hardy old ladies on shopping bikes about in town.

This snow came too early for me to get the snow studs on the MTB which is a block of ice & snow in the garden somewhere. That was today's job.

One wheel drive had no problems with slipping on the trike but the car keeps the ABS chopping in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Zipperhead on 18 December, 2009, 04:26:25 pm
I was disappointed this morning, I'd got my trike out last night expecting to be coming in through the snow, and instead it was just a cold & windy morning.

I still used the trike though, just to frighten the motons a bit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 December, 2009, 04:27:08 pm
Well, if it frightens the rider, it should terrify the motons ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 18 December, 2009, 05:19:09 pm
Quote from: David Martin on 18 December, 2009, 01:12:49 pm
Quote from: tonycollinet on 18 December, 2009, 12:47:00 pm
No snow round here - but due to the temperature, I still took the MTB/studded tyres.

But Damn that is hard work - tyres are only around 30psi, cos that is what is needed for effective grip on ice, but it makes for a much harder commute.

Studded tyres? 30psi? Mine used to grip at almost any sensible pressure for the terrain. For ice I'd be riding at around 50psi.

Or do you not mean studded, but knobbly?

..d

Dunno - but read somewhere that it is necessary to reduce the pressure for grip on ice. Having said that - next time I think I'll chance a higher pressure. 30 psi pulls my legs off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 December, 2009, 09:01:13 pm
On my commute, I occasionally see other commuters before Mitcham Common, and definitely from Tooting onwards.

This morning, I saw the little old woman who can barely see over her front basket, then no riders at all until I got to Balham!  Even then, that was just two, and I only saw two others all the way in to work.

It was a bit like riding back in the day.  You know, 'before'. ;)  When you were out there on your own, and not in a pack.  Riding through Oval junction, I normally have about a dozen cyclists within hailing distance.  It's nice to be part of a group, but, tbh, partly it's reassuring to have a witness if I get hit :-\

But it was really weird.  London's a strange place without bikes...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 December, 2009, 09:04:49 pm
Oh yeah. Forgot to mention.  On the way home, I rode all the way to the last junction.  I didn't even see snow on pavements till I got to Carshalton - not even near Mitcham Common.  Then, as I came up to a steep T junction on to a busy road, I experienced wheelslip.  Next turn off, I had to follow the wheeltrack up the hill.  At the top, it looked a bit icy, so I dismounted.  And nearly fell over.  Then carefully walked down our street, which was glassy smooth, and a world away from SE1...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 18 December, 2009, 09:05:49 pm
I think I saw three bicycles on my commute this morning, two of which were BSOs, and the other was a Brompton.  I overtook all of them. ;D

Cyclists seem even worse than car drivers for avoiding going out in the snow.

Worrying comments about you slipperyness Clarion, since I haven't left yet.  I wonder how "interesting" the last half a mile (which I couldn't cycle on this morning) will be this evening. :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 18 December, 2009, 11:25:30 pm
My commute home was very similar to that into work, insofar as the half nearer to the centre of town was almost entirely snow free, whereas the half on the Croydon side had the remnants of snow on the footpaths, and some roads.

Around Norbury I use a small section of shared use path, which crosses between two no-through roads.  One of these roads was scary, the snow had been compressed into a sheet of ice that was difficult to stand on.  Having seen that, and knowing some of the roads nearer home would have had a similar level of traffic, I took the alternative route via the Purley Way, which I normally avoid on the grounds that two of the junctions are lethal.

It wasn't until I got to my own road, which is similarly no-through, that I had to get off and walk again.  Just turning into the road I could see the sheen of the ice, so didn't even attempt to cycle on it.

I think the temperature around London must be hovering around zero, so once you get outside the heat island effect, it drops a degree or two, and everything freezes.

I don't think I saw any bikes on that trip, but at this time of night, it's not unusual to see none.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 19 December, 2009, 09:59:54 am
My commute home was mind numbingly cold.  I lost the will to live by half way.  I had my Gore face mask on, my Bones jacket, my Assos winter.ll tights, Assos toe covers and overshoes, woolie boolie and silk socks, Assos system gloves, Gore head warmer and Gore helmet cover with my Endura Baa Baa base layer and a normal summer jersey as well.  I was warm enough, comfortable even BUT the wind was numbing my brain but my head was warm ;D

What can you do about that?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 19 December, 2009, 12:40:33 pm
Take your brain out until you get home?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 19 December, 2009, 01:43:22 pm
Get a windstopper Buff Grub :D.

My (unexpected bonus) commute* was great today. The roads were really quiet, hardly anyone out at all. I walked down our road, which was challenging enough :-\, then rode from there, just walking over a couple of patches of sheet ice across the next road. The worst bits were on the residential streets, where people had cleared their windscreens by pouring a bowl of water over them, leaving patches ice to avoid >:(. And the woman accelerating towards me on a narrow, icy road, whilst using one hand to put her seatbelt on. Cretin. Otherwise it was lovely, there were beautiful shadows cast across Mitcham common by the low sun on the snow and quiet roads. Maybe I should work more winter Saturdays :).


*I finished till after the new year on Thursday, officially, but younger charge has chicken pox, so I'm in today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 19 December, 2009, 01:59:07 pm
I walked to Sainsburys to do a spot of shopping, and could clearly see the ice that I decided not to cycle on yesterday night.  It was a good decision.  The footpath has much less ice, but I almost fell over several times, the road looks dodgy to drive on, let alone cycle.

Away from the main roads, the lesser used roads around here are really unpleasant.  I think abandoning the FNRttC last night was probably a good idea.  We would probably still be walking the icy bits!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 21 December, 2009, 08:11:18 am
Ah well, had to happen. First frozen water bottle of the season. Hey ho.  Looking on the bright side... the days start getting longer and we're probably only 6 to 8 weeks away from the first snowdrops.  </fotheringtontomas>
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andygates on 21 December, 2009, 09:39:08 am
Crispy beard! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 December, 2009, 10:14:38 am
I think I'm becoming (even more of) a wuss as I get older.

I've not been on the bike since I dismounted at the top of our road on the commute home friday (and nearly crashed to the ground immediately after :-[ ).

This morning, I walked down our street with the intention of mounting up to ride down the next road.  A short space was fairly clear, but the twinkling back of my headlight beam told me there was loads of black ice.  I unclipped & continued very slowly.  Then I got off, and skidded about on the ice.  I was in the middle of a junction, with thick, glassy ice all around me, and I felt like going home & getting the train. :-\

But I persevered, slowly, and contending with some mind-numbingly stupid driving around me, hoping that I'd get to a gritted road fairly soon.  But there was black ice beyond the mid-way point of my ride (Tooting).  Then I was on the red roads, and it was pretty clear, but all the other cyclists were passing me, as I was thinking back to the ice I'd ridden over, and didn't fancy dropping like a sack onto the road in front of a prat in an B*W at Stockwell.

Got to work, and negotiated the increasing ice after I got off the New Kent Road.  The car park at work was too much, so I walked again.

Surprisingly not the slowest ride I've done, but it wasn't anything like my target speed.  I got to work on time (though not to my desk).

Could be a slow journey home. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 21 December, 2009, 10:44:54 am
I'm not in work.  This morning I left the house at the usual time. Road on the snow down my street (a close) to a slightly busier road. Bike slips sideways as I turn on to it.  I cowardly decide this road is not rideable and walk the bike to the lane.  The lane is narrow so the cars who really should not have been on it in these conditions all followed the same track. Clearing a wheel path for me.  I ride down the safe sections and walk the others.  I approach the A road, my plan was get here however then I would be okay. I cross the road point the bike westward, mount and ride forward.  As I climb the  slope my wheel spins and I think about what may happen on the big descent beyond. So he who turns and rides away gets to ride another day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 December, 2009, 11:00:05 am
CommutenotsoFar today, then? ;)

Discretion etc...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 21 December, 2009, 11:20:31 am
My ride in today was pretty much OK. I should stop playing on the commons on the way in and stick to the gritted, cleared and perfectly usable road though. Having a mountain bike with decent treaded tyres feels great fun on grassy, ice and gravel covered paths and means the temptation is too great. However, on the road it feels pretty horrible.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 December, 2009, 08:52:08 pm
The ride home was long.  It was snowing and v. icy near Elephant & Castle, and trying to pick a path through the rutted ice was stressful with big trucks swooshing past.  So I walked across Oval & Stockwell junctions.

It got easier up through Clapham, and was pretty much just wet by the Common, but there was a long queue of standing, close-packed traffic to negotiate, so I got stuck in line for a long long time.

Faster through Balham, but the surface got worse again into Tooting.  It normally takes me about half an hour to get this far.  Tonight, it was almost an hour longer.  Struggled through there and found another long line of standing traffic, with emergency vehicles struggling to pass.  Getting out of the way was the closest I got to an off, as I hit a pothole in a cycle lane >:(

I took the cut across by Mitcham Common, but met another wall of motor traffic, smoke billowing in clouds through the beams from the headlights.  I passed the lines of traffic, but slowly, as there wasn't much room between the opposing lines of traffic, and the white lines were very slippery.

By the time I got to turn off, it was onto a snowy road, where I was following tyre tracks, and trying to avoid the worst of the ice.  I took a cut through across the top of town on a road inaccessible to cars, and I realised how much fun snow could be if you weren't forced into a narrow line full of rutted ice with an artic by your elbow.

Up the hill a bit till I had to leave the 'main' roads, I walked the next link, as there were cars playing silly beggars.  Then it was a very icy road, but with enough to ride on in peace before turning in at our gate.

19km.  Two hours twenty minutes.  One hour forty-seven of actually moving.

I'm throwing in the towel.  Train tomorrow, I think :( :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 21 December, 2009, 09:40:54 pm
Reading the comments on here about people's commute in London today, I'm very glad I choose to use the Tram and Tube today, since I expected (correctly) to have a load of stuff to carry home.  Glad to hear, so far, that everyone appears to have survived, albeit with a longer and probably colder commute than is ideal.

Mine was about the same as any of my commutes via Public Transport, around an hour, with approximately 60 pages of paperback read.  You may throw things at me if you wish. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 December, 2009, 10:33:42 pm
It does occur to me that, though, at my slowest this evening, I was travelling at the speed of the motor cars, I still overtook loads of the beggars.  If I'd been driving, I'd still be out there somewhere... :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: FyPuNK on 22 December, 2009, 09:18:18 am
Well I made it. Blackpool roads are a nightmare, no gritters, sheet ice underneath fresh snow, get through to Lytham-St.Annes and the roads are gritted and pretty clear of any ice or snow so didn't take that much longer than normal in the end.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 22 December, 2009, 09:47:27 am
Had a moton beep at me and admonish me for endangering him on the road last evening on the way home.  ??? He was the one with slippery tyres spinning all over the place....
Only -4C this morning. Roads not too bad. Winter tyres rock solid but slowing things down a bit; 1h02 for the 15 miles into work. Going up hills is what really slows things down; higher rolling resistance and 1kg rotating weight on each tyre...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 December, 2009, 09:53:16 am
pdm: Danger to imbecile Motorists ;D

Suits you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 22 December, 2009, 10:34:03 am
There wasn't much ice in Devon.  Lots of snow next to the roads but the stuff on the road was slush, even at 8am
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Karla on 22 December, 2009, 10:43:10 am
I underdressed this morning and stopped in a supermarket to warm up, and I only do 2 miles!  I did wonder how PDM was getting on in the Peak District.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 December, 2009, 10:46:33 am
Yeah - respect to pdm.  That commute is not to be sniffed at.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RJ on 22 December, 2009, 01:01:37 pm
Having bussed it yesterday, I managed a graceful slide on to my hip as I turned right of Lauriston Place on to Lady Lawson Street.  Both streets were clear, apart from at the junction itself, which was covered in a stealthy layer of slush.  So, down I went - but *much* slower than on ice.  Just as well there was nothing behind me, though.

No harm done - and I e-mailed Clarence the cuddly lion to suggest that the gritters/ploughs pay some extra attention next time they're passing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 22 December, 2009, 01:55:37 pm
Working from home but still nipped to the shops on the bike. Lots of people trying to warn me about how slippery it was but the Marathon Winter tyres just cut through all of the slush/ice. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: FyPuNK on 23 December, 2009, 08:44:57 am
Set off this morning in good spirits, roads are getting quieter as more morons break up, roads now clear of snow/ sludge and ice. With one mile to go a hooligan of a hail storm comes in, felt like golf balls. Roll on Spring.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 December, 2009, 09:19:24 am
Odd patches of black ice, and great long stretches of motorised buffoonery, but it was a good ride, and, contrary to muy expectations, I was at my desk on time. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 23 December, 2009, 03:02:07 pm
Quote from: clarion on 23 December, 2009, 09:19:24 am
Odd patches of black ice, and great long stretches of motorised buffoonery, but it was a good ride, and, contrary to muy expectations, I was at my desk on time. :)

Came in by train. Wishing that I came by bike. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 December, 2009, 03:03:24 pm
Quote from: Jacomus on 23 December, 2009, 03:02:07 pm
Came in by train. Wishing that I came by bike. :(

You're me yesterday :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 December, 2009, 08:09:16 pm
Moist this evening...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JJ on 23 December, 2009, 08:59:29 pm
Flippin' slippy this evening in these promiscuous parts.  Yomped in to work this morning.  Crunch-crunch, lovely.  Rescued the BSO with its knobblies from the office bike shed, and set off back after the traffic had died down a bit. 

All was pretty clear until the concrete road across the farm where I found a mirror surface, polished by various large machines.  All still OK, because there was a central band of crunch to ride on, but when I got within sight of the village, that disappeared and I was left doing a sort of Buster Keaton number as I gave up riding and tried to walk.  The feet would go one way and the wheels the other, then I'd bring them both back and they'd switch over and slide out the other way.  A bit of involuntary stationary running, and you get the idea.

So relieved to get home upright.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 24 December, 2009, 09:01:30 am
3" snow overnight - the heavy just around zero degrees C type. Compacts to ice very quickly. Had to walk 50m up the steepest part of Ivy Cottage Lane.... 1h02 for the 15 miles.
Very few vehicles on the roads today - Bliss!  ;D
Passed one other intrepid cyclist and exchanged a few words of joy  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 24 December, 2009, 09:15:40 am
Quote from: clarion on 23 December, 2009, 09:19:24 am
...contrary to muy expectations...
How much more had you expected?  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cyclops on 24 December, 2009, 09:24:38 am
More snow falling here now. I spotted some flashing orange lights ahead on a quiet back road which I thought was a gritter/ snowplough. When I got closer I realized it was actually a tractor hedgecutting :o so we had 3 inches of snow with a generous sprinkling of hawthorn clippings on the top.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 24 December, 2009, 09:25:00 am
Good ride this morning.  Snow & ice gone, washed away by last night's rain.  Enjoyed the clearer roads, and posted my first average ride speed over 20kph for a week! :o

Home early today :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 24 December, 2009, 10:02:53 am
Perfect conditions to ride in, except that I turned into Battersea Park and straight onto a 10m long stretch of sheet ice and promptly fell off! Not even bruised, but damp and annoyed that the entrance to the park hasn't been cleared.
The rest of the ride was entirely uneventful, likewise no traffic means cars are actually giving me plenty of room and overtaking sensibly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 24 December, 2009, 01:41:17 pm
It's tonight that I'd be worried about. Drunk drivers and people hurrying around to get to relatives. I'm not going out until tomorrow now, if it isn't too much of an ice rink.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 29 December, 2009, 09:36:02 am
Comfortable ride in, though I'm still getting used to riding The Beast - specifically the lack of acceleration.

It is weird, cruising speed is very acceptable and is relatively easy to maintain but it takes a fair while to get there. I'm sure that the raging headwind didn't help matters though.

Front light died en route, and classically I forgot to pack a back up :(

The saddle needs to be trimmed nose down by a notch and so do the bars, I'll do that before I go home.

Apart from one "luxury" minibus driving like a wonk, it was a fine journey.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 29 December, 2009, 07:08:02 pm
Well I rode home :-[

Emily met me at my office and escorted me home with me following closely hoping that her front light would get us both home in one piece.

It was bloody nerve-wracking not to mention pretty stupid - me tailing her as close as I dared through junctions, in wet and windy conditions with poor visibility and backing off a bit along bus lanes to lessen the strain on the nerves.

We made it in one piece but shan't be doing that ever again. I have never felt so exposed on the road as tonight with no front light.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 29 December, 2009, 07:21:47 pm
I carry a Polaris diode light with fresh batteries in my saddlebag just in case. They're bright enough to keep you safe and pretty cheap and reliable. Not that good for seeing with, but they'll get you out of trouble.
I keep fresh batteries for my rear lights in spare rear lights in my saddlebag.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Zoidburg on 29 December, 2009, 08:04:29 pm
Quote from: Jacomus on 29 December, 2009, 07:08:02 pm
Well I rode home :-[

Emily met me at my office and escorted me home with me following closely hoping that her front light would get us both home in one piece.

It was bloody nerve-wracking not to mention pretty stupid - me tailing her as close as I dared through junctions, in wet and windy conditions with poor visibility and backing off a bit along bus lanes to lessen the strain on the nerves.

We made it in one piece but shan't be doing that ever again. I have never felt so exposed on the road as tonight with no front light.
Todays load out as I headed out this afternoon was the following.

1xLuxeon LED head torch, lithium batteries.
1xCree 3W C cell tesco job, bar mounted.
1xCree Q5 AA torch, bar mounted.
2xCateye rear blinkers, seat post.
2xSmart bog standard blinkys, bag mounted.



Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 29 December, 2009, 08:17:35 pm
That's a lot of rear end flashing Zoidburg ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Zoidburg on 29 December, 2009, 08:21:52 pm
Quote from: jogler on 29 December, 2009, 08:17:35 pm
That's a lot of rear end flashing Zoidburg ;D
Well it is Stoke.

SMIDSY city, In the event it goes pear shaped I want the inbreds to have completely no defence what so ever in court.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 29 December, 2009, 08:26:35 pm
Quote from: Zoidburg on 29 December, 2009, 08:21:52 pm
Quote from: jogler on 29 December, 2009, 08:17:35 pm
That's a lot of rear end flashing Zoidburg ;D
Well it is Stoke.

SMIDSY city, In the event it goes pear shaped I want the inbreds to have completely no defence what so ever in court.

Fair comment ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Zoidburg on 29 December, 2009, 08:32:27 pm
Quote from: jogler on 29 December, 2009, 08:26:35 pm
Quote from: Zoidburg on 29 December, 2009, 08:21:52 pm
Quote from: jogler on 29 December, 2009, 08:17:35 pm
That's a lot of rear end flashing Zoidburg ;D
Well it is Stoke.

SMIDSY city, In the event it goes pear shaped I want the inbreds to have completely no defence what so ever in court.

Fair comment ;)
They saw me so therefore they must have purposely assaulted me with the car.

Forcing me to kill them in self defence.

Do you think the jury would buy it?

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 29 December, 2009, 08:47:34 pm
They should but they would bottle it
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Zoidburg on 29 December, 2009, 08:50:31 pm
I will wear a Robbie Williams T-Shirt in court.

That should swing them in my favour.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 31 December, 2009, 10:11:40 am
What a struggle! Headwind + chronically overloaded bike = seriously tired Jacomus :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 January, 2010, 09:20:35 am
Icy! :o

I'd been trying not to listen to the weather forecasts, because I know that London is a sweaty heaving mass of (?in)humanity, meaning that the temperatures are generally higher here. 

And the sheer weight of traffic means that main roads are gritted and the tyre tracks mark out.  One advantage of living in this Great Wen, I suppose. :-\

But when Butterfly looked out of the window and said, 'Crumbs!' (one of her strongest expletives), I knew something was amiss.  And, after over a week of glorious sunshine and cold, but not freezing, weather, with clear roads great for cycling, we had ice.  Lots of it, in a deep frost.  Our road was a bit too tricky.  The next was passable with care.  And it got better from there, but it was quite a shock.  I even had a moment where I considered taking the train :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 04 January, 2010, 09:27:17 am
We live on the South Circular so come out straight onto a big gritted main road, so ice on the road wasn't a problem - it was greasy and horrible all the way to work though.

I deployed the ski gloves, but was having trouble gripping the bars / brakes properly - I really need to dig out my heavyweight Gore cycling gloves.

When I arrived at work I went to take a sip of water and found that there was a crust of ice round the nipple/spouty bit of my bottle :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 04 January, 2010, 09:37:14 am
That was a tad chilly! -9C

Lots of ice on the sides of even the main roads, not what I could call an enjoyable ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 04 January, 2010, 09:50:25 am
I was fine, except for standing still at the Level Crossing for 4 minutes {freezing smilie}.

However I arrived at the office to find that the boilers had not fired up this morning until the facilities staff arrived to manually over ride them.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cyclone on 04 January, 2010, 09:55:46 am
Memories of winter in Sweden today - frozen beard after 10k, laughing inwardly about the council saying"we've got lots of grit this year - Why 'cos none of it is on the roads! ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul D on 04 January, 2010, 10:05:44 am
-8° in the Dorset countryside this morning. Had to walk out of our estate, and the main roads had some serious ice in the gutters but I avioded any exciting moments. Had to stop after 20 minutes though to revive the fingers. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 04 January, 2010, 10:31:47 am
Rather cold out today, with some of the roads I take in being more like skating rinks. Still, made it in upright, remembered my computer password (always a worry after being off for a couple of weeks, with the helpful "password strength" and short validity period before you have to think of a new one policy here)

I was then delighted to read all the emails from before Christmas of how people were arriving home after midnight or abandoning the attempt and sleeping in the office  :) I'd taken the last week before Christmas off, the office is in Basingstoke  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wascally Weasel on 04 January, 2010, 11:01:56 am
First commute of the year for me this morning too – lots of frost and ice about, was interesting to watch just how long it takes drivers to get their cars ready in the morning – cars sat with engines running while drivers scraped all of the ice off windows.  I suppose this is the equivalent of the extra time I need to take putting the extra layer and overshoes on before setting off.

Feet were nice and warm, in fact only my ears were really cold.  Was very glad of the fleece gloves Ms Weasel bought me for Christmas.

Richmond Park was lovely, all white with frost, lots of deer by the roadside too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 04 January, 2010, 11:23:57 am
My commute was one metre backwards out of the shed then one metre forwards this morning.  With the discovery of a puncture in between.  It was dark and freezing so I uttered an expletive and wandered off to catch the train again.  Tonight I will fix it and or swap the spare wheel (which I had forgotten about this morning).


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 04 January, 2010, 11:35:40 am
I used the trike this morning because my preferred route includes five miles of quiet (hence icy) lanes. It was a lovely ride and my only problem was some frozen eyelashes.  ::-)

I chose to walk round a 20m frozen, flooded stretch that I think was just solid smooth ice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 04 January, 2010, 11:42:05 am
The universal measure of how cold it is is the thickness of the ice on the chickens water dish
1/8" of a inch is a bit chilly
1/2" is very cold

It was frozen solid the whole thing in a block, about 2 1/2" thick

But the concrete footpath up the garden, which is a pretty good indicator of the roads around about was clear of ice
Only had to get off and walk a couple of times, little bit of snow on the Blackdowns
I had cold toes but the two pairs of socks seemed to work in the sense that I wasn't in pain as my feet warmed up again
The gloves are no good though.  I think I will have to go shopping at lunchtime

And it isn't even February yet :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 04 January, 2010, 11:57:10 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 04 January, 2010, 11:42:05 am

The gloves are no good though.  I think I will have to go shopping at lunchtime


On the subject of gloves:

I'm using BBB fleece gloves; nothing special, just a nice thick fleece. Over the top I add some wind and waterproof overmitts. The combination is great, and the overmitts can be taken off and shoved in a jersey pocket if I'm getting overheated.
Bought from here
http://www.joe-brown.com/outdoor-equipment/special-offers/gloves/northcape-skye-overmitt.html (http://www.joe-brown.com/outdoor-equipment/special-offers/gloves/northcape-skye-overmitt.html)
Can't speak too highly of them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: scampi on 04 January, 2010, 01:30:17 pm
-5 on the south coast this morning and a pleasant ride in with the added advantage (for non-showering commuters) that in this weather you can ride as fast as you like, you're still not going to break into a sweat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Karla on 04 January, 2010, 01:59:47 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 04 January, 2010, 11:57:10 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 04 January, 2010, 11:42:05 am

The gloves are no good though.  I think I will have to go shopping at lunchtime


On the subject of gloves:

I'm using BBB fleece gloves; nothing special, just a nice thick fleece. Over the top I add some wind and waterproof overmitts. The combination is great, and the overmitts can be taken off and shoved in a jersey pocket if I'm getting overheated.
Bought from here
http://www.joe-brown.com/outdoor-equipment/special-offers/gloves/northcape-skye-overmitt.html (http://www.joe-brown.com/outdoor-equipment/special-offers/gloves/northcape-skye-overmitt.html)
Can't speak too highly of them.

I need some overmitts, can you comment on the sizing of those?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 04 January, 2010, 02:17:24 pm
My commute is on busy, fairly central roads, so I was ok as far as ice was concerned this morning. My ski gloves work well even though they are bulky. Temp going down to -3 in central London this evening according to Metcheck.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 04 January, 2010, 02:22:58 pm
Quote from: Mr Bunbury on 04 January, 2010, 01:59:47 pm

I need some overmitts, can you comment on the sizing of those?

I take a large or medium in most gloves, due to my mole-like fat palms. My overmitts are a Medium and feel roomy, even over the top of other gloves.

If you take a large in gloves, I'd say buy large. It doesn't matter if the overmitts are a bit big.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 04 January, 2010, 08:13:51 pm
-9 today.  First ride along the canal.  First 9 miles was really technical and bumpy.  Nearly had an off into the canal too  ;D
The last 9 miles are lovely and smooth. 
I managed 12.4 mph average in the end.

The best bit is this new cycling location and bike and technique has reinvigorated my commute.  It was getting a tad boring but not any more.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moloko on 04 January, 2010, 08:15:48 pm
Quote from: Grub on 04 January, 2010, 08:13:51 pm
-9 today.  First ride along the canal.  First 9 miles was really technical and bumpy.  Nearly had an off into the canal too  ;D
The last 9 miles are lovely and smooth.  
I managed 12.4 mph average in the end.

The best bit is this new cycling location and bike and technique has reinvigorated my commute.  It was getting a tad boring but not any more.  :thumbsup:

I'd say that's bloody good going for a dodgy towpath. You reckless git!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hawkeye on 04 January, 2010, 08:47:24 pm
The pool is closed for essential maintenance so it wasn't a timed commute but I did fall off. Going down icy rutted Easby hill, I was confused by a pedestrian randomly hopping from rut to rut and doing a bit of gratuitous sliding in between. Neither my bell nor my call penetrated his earphones and I found myself about to run into him or bail out into the verge. For some reason I found the slow fall into snowy grass was hugely funny and I couldn't mount up again for slithering around and giggling.

When I got to the pool a generator was grumbling away outside and there was no heating and certainly no tea or coffee. I came home on the main road in the sun and slush.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 04 January, 2010, 09:05:06 pm
Quote from: Dicky Mo on 04 January, 2010, 08:15:48 pm
Quote from: Grub on 04 January, 2010, 08:13:51 pm
-9 today.  First ride along the canal.  First 9 miles was really technical and bumpy.  Nearly had an off into the canal too  ;D
The last 9 miles are lovely and smooth.  
I managed 12.4 mph average in the end.

The best bit is this new cycling location and bike and technique has reinvigorated my commute.  It was getting a tad boring but not any more.  :thumbsup:

I'd say that's bloody good going for a dodgy towpath. You reckless git!

Yes, at times it was.  I somehow convinced myself that if I kept my speed up then I might be able to simply forge through the danger zone  ;D

On an aside, the ice on the ground was like a zillion diamonds in the light from my Exposure Joystick.
It was very very pretty.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 04 January, 2010, 10:28:37 pm
13.2mph average tonight, I was pretty nervous though. The roads had that thin little crust of ice on, I could see bits of it flick into the beam of my headlight off the front tyre. Everything was a tad skittish. Saw lots of motorbikes and other cyclists being very careful. Lots of motons driving with absolutely no regard for the conditions - loads of wheel slip out of TLs or junctions.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 January, 2010, 09:19:50 am
Still OK down here, and I'm trusting the BBC that we won't be getting snow in London till later this evening.

It was a fab ride, though, with loads of cyclists about, even on the first half of the ride, where I rarely see more than one or two.  And on the main roads, it was good enough to get a decent speed up, so I wasn't too slow overall.  Fun.

I'll probably not ride tomorrow, though </wuss>
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 05 January, 2010, 09:31:46 am
 looked outside and decided that since I haven't commuted in nearly a year I'd use the train. One the walk to the roads were very unslippy and I realised that I should have ridden in :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 January, 2010, 09:35:41 am
Tha daft wazzock! ;D

But tomorrow may be a different matter....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 05 January, 2010, 09:42:18 am
Despite the weather I did my commute to the office barefoot
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 January, 2010, 09:49:59 am
I hope your landing is carpeted! :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 05 January, 2010, 09:59:59 am
Space blanket - check
Spade - check
extra layers - check
Blizzard penetration specs - check

Phew! made it!
Left in a blizzard, rode the leading edge of it all the way.
Yeti like countenance on arrival.

Will have fun going home!  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 05 January, 2010, 10:04:33 am
Fell off big time this morning.  Hit a tree branch that was sticking horizontally out of the hedge.
I forgot it was there and as I left home slightly earlier today to go on a special job it was darker than previously.  It hit my left shoulder and took me off.  I seriously banged my right shoulder, right knee and the right side of my head.  Luckily I was wearing my helmet as all I could see was stars !!  My helmet light was dangling off the fixture so was casting an odd light pattern about me and I could see I was right on the edge of the canal so I leapt up and then promptly had to lie down again as I was not right.  I led on the icy ground for a minute or so and then got up.  Shoulder was on fire and so was my knee.  Seriously thought about going home but for three reasons I didn’t.  Firstly my Bradford Score is already bad enough.  Secondly I need the mileage for my internet race with a chap in Scotland.  Thirdly, I do not like to admit defeat or be beaten and was not prepared to be beaten by a tree limb.  So I slowly kept going and then eventually got my wits about me and managed to get some speed up again.
At work I have shown all and sundry my wounds and the Business Manager dressed my leg once I’d dropped my trousers.
I have a bruised right forehead and my right shoulder is now covered in red Tiger balm to try and ease the discomfort.

Everyone is telling me to get a car!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: FyPuNK on 05 January, 2010, 10:04:37 am
SNOW  :o what the ****is going on here? I met up half way through the commute today with a chap I chat to on the few occasions we meet on the ride in, he was walking along with his bike, had a couple of moments he tells me. 50 mins to do 6.5 miles and it aint stopping so could be slower on the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul D on 05 January, 2010, 10:12:39 am
Woah Grub, be careful!

Dorset is much the same as yesterday. More dry-but-cold main roads. Snow forecast for later today so I'm offski at 4 to try and beat it.

One pleasing thing from yesterday: On the way in I spotted a patch of sheet ice on a short 10% climb. I made a note for later, when I'd be hurtling down it. On the way home I rode down the footpath on the other side of the road, but as it was dark I couldn't tell whether the ice was still there. This morning a car-bound collegue said 'nearly lost it on the ice down the hill into Bere Regis'.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: longers on 05 January, 2010, 10:13:55 am
From Oldham to Glossop on roads that hadn't seen a snowplough. 10/10 for fun!


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 January, 2010, 10:15:11 am
Hey Grub, we don't want you freezing in a ditch somewhere.  Take care of yourself and your mile-munching legs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 05 January, 2010, 10:16:49 am
Grub, slow down a bit . . .

I know you are a fast bu&&er, but this isn't the weather for tearing along.

Canals are shallow, but this isn't the weather to risk landing in one. From experience of having to go into the river in winter (when I lived on the boat), you have less than a minute to get out before your muscles lock up. You'll then drown, no matter how good a swimmer you are.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 05 January, 2010, 10:37:13 am
Quote from: longers on 05 January, 2010, 10:13:55 am
From Oldham to Glossop on roads that hadn't seen a snowplough. 10/10 for fun!

<jealous>

It's very cold here, and I took the main roads as a couple of the back roads I normally ride had sheet ice yesterday.

Had a few conversations in the office about riding to work in bad weather; one guy who isn't riding in at the moment  (a 10 mile commute) as his wife is close to term on her pregnancy and he wants to be able to get home quickly if needed has got his MTB with studded tyres in the boot of the car so he can abandon the car in case the weather gets bad.

Another guy is hoping for really bad weather so he can play in the snow on his ride in. A couple of non-riders have commented to me that at least I'll get home on my bike if the weather turns bad. No one has made the expected comments about being stupid to cycle in this weather  :thumbsup:

We are in Basingstoke, everyone is expecting to be sitting in major jams again if the snow hits.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MSeries on 05 January, 2010, 10:42:18 am
take it as a warning Grub. Be careful. Is your internet race more important than your health ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cyclops on 05 January, 2010, 10:56:51 am
For the first time in the 10 years I've lived in my house the lock on my side gate was frozen solid so I had to carry the bike through the house. A lot of hard packed snow with frozen tyre ruts but as a taxi had to be dug out when it got stuck in my street yesterday I figured I'd get further on 2 wheels. I had a few slips and slides but stayed upright thanks to the studded tyres although I had to get off and push the bike across the road to turn right as riding at right angles across the frozen tyre ruts was impossible.

Note to self: bikes are largely composed of metal so will quickly equalize with ambient temperature. So when it's -7 don't take your gloves off before you carry the bike into work to avoid your hand freezing to the top tube.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: eck on 05 January, 2010, 10:58:39 am
Quote from: Grub on 05 January, 2010, 10:04:33 am
Secondly I need the mileage for my internet race with a chap in Scotland. 
Can't think who you can possibly mean.  O:-)
I'm happy to call a truce until the roads are safer.

Quote from: MSeries on 05 January, 2010, 10:42:18 am
take it as a warning Grub. Be careful. Is your internet race more important than your health ?
+1 to that. Jings, man, look after yourself, eh?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 05 January, 2010, 11:00:09 am
It wasn't as cold as yesterday today.  But I took the slightly lower road as there had been more snow.
Quicker than yesterday riding in as I didn't have to stop and push around any ice
New ski mitts are good
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 05 January, 2010, 11:04:00 am
Cheers all.  I was being careful, seriously.  I even slowed down a bit.
But I take this off today as just one of those things that happen.
The tree branch should not have been there.
I fixed it though so it will not happen again.

My mileage issue is not the be all and end all.  I know that.  It is great motivation though. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: FyPuNK on 05 January, 2010, 11:07:13 am
(http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q75/Aidypunk/SP_A0128.jpg)
here is my trusty steed freezing its wheel nuts off, taken a few mins ago.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 05 January, 2010, 11:16:10 am
Another failed commute.  A little further.   Got a puncture after six miles. I decided my hands were too cold to fix it so I went to Pontyclun station and waited 55 mins for the next train. It was a slow puncture so I added air at Bridgend station and rode the two miles to work on a mostly flat tyre. So half distance commute.

 
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Fluffy on 05 January, 2010, 11:25:14 am
I am sick of snow, its really bad here in Costa Del Rochdale. It makes it next to impossible to cycle and I want to go for my rides. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: longers on 05 January, 2010, 11:51:31 am
Quote from: MattH on 05 January, 2010, 10:37:13 am

<jealous>


My bike this morning. A bit settled on it while I went and found a camera, but not much.

(http://i46.tinypic.com/fx5eac.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 05 January, 2010, 12:57:34 pm
Nicer ride today than yesterday. Yesterday was too icy - today was nice loose snow with much more grip.

Plus the cars were going slower today. We've had about 4 inches in Congleton.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 05 January, 2010, 01:44:37 pm
My commute was quite easy, very little snow or ice, just a few bits around where puddles of water had collected, and there was too much to easily evaporate.

Of course, after about five minutes my front brake cable broke, so I had to spend another five minutes fitting the spare (it too so long since it's a bit fiddly.  To get the cable into the hidden outer, I normally have to loosen the brake lever, and there's also a travel agent which you have to route the cable through).  It's better buggering about doing this sort of fettling in the cold than in the rain though!

I'm hoping that the snow doesn't drop significantly until I'm home though, the tyres are fairly slick, so don't have much grip in slippery stuff.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 05 January, 2010, 03:56:19 pm
I set off a little late and avoided the worst of the "blizzard", as someone described to me ::-)

I went the long way, along the river path, to avoid the wheel-spinning mentalists on the roads.  I overtook a lad on a MTB, who looked a little trepidatious.

It was a glorious day, really.  Shame about the destination.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: FyPuNK on 05 January, 2010, 06:50:52 pm
Journey home was worse than expected, never before have I had my brakes and gears freeze solid on me. On the plus side the roads were very quiet and not to slippery and Mrs Punk had a nice hot bath waiting for me. Hope its warmer tomorrow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 05 January, 2010, 06:53:52 pm
Really nice journey home - very little traffic on snowy roads - I had most of the A61 dual carriageway northbound to myself!
Got held up in town by slow moving motons inching down hills.
Bit of a slog against a headwind driving snow.
Took 10 minutes longer than usual....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 05 January, 2010, 07:13:38 pm
No snow in Milton Keynes, just crunchy frost so cycling is OK, but I'm being carefull.
I hope my mountain bike bits come soon so I can go for some off roading now the bog pit bridleways are frozen solid.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 05 January, 2010, 07:41:13 pm
We've had a bit of snow already in Wiltshire.
I cycled along the tow path for the first 9 miles and it was not too bad.
Shoulder was murder.
Got off onto the road before I hit the rough stuff as there was not enough snow to crunch down into it - more like sprinkled sand on top of frozen ground and that was really slippery.
The road was wet and I had taken off the rear mud guard ages ago.
No issues other than a frozen bottom  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 05 January, 2010, 07:50:30 pm
My commute was fine, but glad I got home before the roads got slippery. I suspect I may not be on the bike tomorrow unless the roads I commute on are ok (they weren't last time it snowed properly and all the buses were cancelled).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: geoff on 05 January, 2010, 08:21:06 pm
I crunched into work over loverly frosty fields today. Knobbly tyres rule!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: eck on 05 January, 2010, 08:27:02 pm
Glad you're ok after your adventures this morning, mate.  :thumbsup:
Quote from: Grub on 05 January, 2010, 07:41:13 pm
No issues other than a frozen bottom  ;D
:-X
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andygates on 05 January, 2010, 08:30:28 pm
Huge chunks of frozen breath in my beard on the way in today; milder on the way back, but now the snow's falling so I'm getting the knobby MTB ready to tackle the squeaky-crunchy fray. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 05 January, 2010, 08:50:30 pm
Rather bizarrely, it's a couple of degrees warmer in London now, than it was this morning (in daylight) on my commute in, and that was already warmer than it had been first thing.  I don't know if it's caused by the possible approaching snowyness, but it stopped ice being much of a problem for my commute home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 05 January, 2010, 09:15:27 pm
Quote from: eck on 05 January, 2010, 08:27:02 pm
Glad you're ok after your adventures this morning, mate.  :thumbsup:
Quote from: Grub on 05 January, 2010, 07:41:13 pm
No issues other than a frozen bottom  ;D
:-X

Yes, on the plus side it increased my mileage as well  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 January, 2010, 09:50:37 pm
Unexpectedly uneventful ride home this evening. :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tourist Tony on 05 January, 2010, 10:48:25 pm
Nasty...walked it a lot of the way. Car pulls over...he's a cyclist, has his cycle rack in the car, did I want a lift.
Twenty yards from my front door!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 06 January, 2010, 08:44:33 am
First 100 yards on my road were interesting but once I got to the main road it was fine. Started snowing again by the time I got to London Bridge
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 06 January, 2010, 09:47:08 am
No commute for me today  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wascally Weasel on 06 January, 2010, 09:58:23 am
I probably should have got the MTB out today (although that only has slicks atm).  Meant that I couldn't ride through the snowy middle of Richmond Park and had to endure much silliness on the road (including drivers overtaking even when I was doing the speed limit.

I've set myself a goal of not missing a commute if I can help it this month so was determined to get out this morning.  Most roads were pretty snow free and as soon as I was past Priory Lane wasn't really troubled by it (although did divert from some of my back street routes).  Traffic was pretty light I thought.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 06 January, 2010, 10:03:35 am
This morning I decided on a mixed commute.  Ride into Cardiff the train To Bridgend and ride to Work.   So I rode down the steep hil snow covered so nice and secure.  When I got to bottom more cars had passed and the grit/salt had done its job and there were clear patches.  I feel more nervous on this sort of surface but I continued on to the Taff Trail cycle path that had plenty of Snow.  One bike had been along here before me.  As I cycled through the trees at Hayley park I wondered if I was still on the path but the other track led me through.  Although shortly after I decided to ride straight across the Rugby pitches. More cycles had used the path as I approached town.  The gates at the lodge near Blackweir were pretty slippy as all the bikes must make the same swerve. I lost the back wheel but the front kept me upright.  Again I lost the path in Castle park and improvised a route to the gate and arrived at the station soon after.  A long wait for the train. I arrive in Bridgend.  A big difference in conditions.  I was nervous descending Court Road from the station but the roads I used were now clear.  The side roads on the estate looked dodgy but I got to work half an hour late. A two hour commute, but 35 minutes of it was waiting for a train.


  
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 06 January, 2010, 11:10:30 am
My commute in was pretty uneventful.  I did take a slightly more torturous route to use main roads, rather than cutting across Tooting Bec Common and Clapham Common on their cycle paths, but the traffic level was much lower than is normal for a morning.  The vast majority of vehicles on the road were commercial of one sort or another, Taxis, Vans, Lorries, and Buses.  Very few private cars, which was kind of odd, since the main roads were perfectly drivable (and cycleable), and even the minor roads easily traversed with a little care.

I should have avoided the side road route up to West Croydon station, and taken the Purley Way instead, but aside from a couple of slippery moments, and taking it very gingerly, it was OK.  If it hasn't melted by this evening, my return route will be on the Purley Way.

Unusually I saw one guy skating along the cycle path on Queenstown Road, up the side of Battersea Park.  I was using the road, to avoid the sludgy, snowy mixture, and he was making fairly slow progress by the look of it.  I wouldn't think skates were ideal in the snow, they must clog fairly easily, and you would probably loose traction (not to say stability!).

Now I'm at work, it appears that out of the six of us who work in this Lab, I'm the only one who managed to get in, which isn't that impressive, given how mild the conditions are in London.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 January, 2010, 12:07:30 pm
That's pretty pathetic of them, tbh.  I was the one who struggled the most with the weather here, and I was just late.  All doctors, nurses, managerial & admin staff here got in today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: FyPuNK on 06 January, 2010, 12:35:40 pm
Not as bad as I was expecting this morning, although there was snow/ice, the roads they were in pretty good condition, no nearly offs to report and my brakes/gears are working again. Think the journey home could be fun, clear skies so going to be icy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 06 January, 2010, 02:43:20 pm
Not bad at all today...
Getting out of our road and the few miles through the Mayfield Valley was quite hard going and slow with 6" of snow clogging up the works but once on ploughed roads it was much easier...
Going down the A61 dual carriageway only one lane was "open" with motons crawling down it - overtook them all on the outside and left them for snow...  ;D
Going home will be more fun - temperatures are already dropping as we speak and are forecast to be quite low, -5C or lower, with a brisk northerly adding a significant headwind chill... May have to wear the balaclava.

Edit: (20h05)
Trip home OK - Almost kept pace with the motons on the freezing (gritted) surfaces going UP the A61! It was quite chilly....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 06 January, 2010, 06:51:27 pm
We had less than an inch of snow overnight, but it fell on top of frozen lanes
I took the trike to work but had a few hairy moments and can confirm that :

Ice + trike + downhill + camber = AIEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!

At one point I wished I'd packed an anchor or something  similar to thow out behind me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 January, 2010, 08:59:07 pm
Ee, that were a grand ride home.  Really good.  Tailwind, I gather, but I'd paid for that this morning.  And two very careful motorists, one of whom was a cabbie! :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wowbagger on 06 January, 2010, 09:08:22 pm
Quite a lot of motorists do have a strong sense of self-preservation.

My ride home was very good: we'd just had an inch of fast-falling snow which made the motorists very wary. I just trundled along outside the traffic, Solidlights flashing and Hope Vision 1 glaring, and lots of drivers, apparently thinking "WTF?", moved left as they caught sight of me in the off-side wing-mirror.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 06 January, 2010, 09:25:24 pm
Quote from: Gordy on 06 January, 2010, 06:51:27 pm
At one point I wished I'd packed an anchor or something  similar to thow out behind me.

An anchor behind you may not be the best thing. Especially going downhill on ice.


Another walk/jog to work for me. The gritted roads looked rideable, but I was glad that I walked as I watched a long line of cars about 2 car lengths away from each other. It doesn't strike me as a clever way to drive when it could well be icy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RichForrest on 06 January, 2010, 09:38:24 pm
Yes was fun here, I walked home this morning. It took me just over an hr 30
Fell on my arse once ;D was lovely walking past the lake and along the canal at 6.30 this morning though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 06 January, 2010, 11:10:48 pm
Narnia, anyone?

(http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2750/4252527648_91d021dde1.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: longers on 07 January, 2010, 07:52:39 am
A driving colleague tells me it's minus 13 here. That's the coldest I've ever known and certainly the coldest I've ever ridden in. Shame I'm at work or I'd be knocking up a pair of studded tyres and going out to play.

Getting to work and home again feels like playing because it's a bit dicey in places.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: FyPuNK on 07 January, 2010, 08:46:42 am
Damn cold again this morning, the roads were in pretty good condition but again the gears were not running smooth often frozen, nearly felt brave enough to clip in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 07 January, 2010, 09:23:11 am
That was  . . . long.

Went the Wetherby route, so about 27miles. Took me 2 hours!  Snow built up under mudguard, it was like riding with the brakes on.

I tried taking some photos, but it was too dark for my phone.

So i'll cheat and use someone else's pics. This was taken yesterday, on part of my Wetherby route.

(http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/resources/images/1147818/?type=gallery)

The snow is a bit deeper now, and the wheel tracks a bit clearer.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 January, 2010, 10:00:07 am
Respect, mr charly!  That's an ambitious ride in these conditions.

My ride was shorter but still quite interesting.

Once out of the backstreets, the roads were pretty clear, but the amount of snow'n'ice at the edges pushed me out so I had to take different lines past some familiar hazards.

A contraflow cycle lane was very sketchy, but I managed to scoot it.  The road the other way had been gritted (yesterday, I suspect), which helped, but the van stopped skewiff across the road, forcing the cars into the contraflow cycle lane to get past, was another thing.

I was surprised that the next bits of road were so icy, but, by the time I got to Tooting, I was onto the Red Route, so it was fairly normal.

I was very conscious that I was slow, and less able to dominate the road than usual, so junctions were more difficult to negotiate.

I decided not to take the back road up to work, but go further along and double back along a bigger road.  I'm glad I did, because I saw a lad down on the ice at one of the side junctions.  I was literally round the corner from work, but I'm one of the few people who rides with a first aid kit, and I'd not forgive myself if I hadn't checked on him.

U-turn on New Kent Road :o  then back.  The road mouth he was negotiating (well, actually, the sharp, ramped turn onto a cycle lane just before the junction) was absolutely glassy, and pedestrians were struggling.  Fortunately, by the time i got to him, a passer by and the (fortuantely very aware) Range Rover driver stopped behind him had helped get him and his bike safely off the road, and I just had to deal with the aftermath.

I think he'd bumped his head, but it was hard to tell because there were so many marks on his helmet.  He was clearly bruised & a bit stiff, and rather woozy.  I sat him down & parked our bikes together while I made an assessment.  Nothing to bandage, wipe or dress, so the FAK stayed in the saddlebag, but I did strongly advise him to go to St Thomas's or the Guy's MIC.  I don't believe he did.  When he was a bit more together, we walked together to the bike route, and he continued on towards his work, while I peeled off the other way, and rode gingerly on the ice I'd earlier decided to avoid.

We saw two Council workers spreading grit by hand on the footpath (but not the adjacent cycle path ::-)  Not their fault).  I persuaded them to do something about the end of the cycle path so I hope there won't be any more falls there.

As we were crossing New Kent Road again at the pelican, we were naturally a little cautious, so were still on the crossing as the light began to flash.  Not a problem - there's time to finish crossing.  Well, there would have been, had a B*W not been speeding up the blind side of a truck without even slowing.  In this weather? >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wascally Weasel on 07 January, 2010, 10:27:54 am
Went in by bike today (I’m aware that it’s a lot less challenging to do so where I am than where many other posters are) , got some wide knobbly tyres for my old Marin Hardtail on the way home last night.  I rode in on my Ribble yesterday and had a few problems coming back through Richmond Park last night, was a bit slippy on slick tyres (I had to get off and walk up part of Sawyers Hill as I had no traction and the rear wheel kept spinning round while I went nowhere, I also had an off at the RAB just before Kingston Gate).

This morning on fat knobbly tyres I was much happier – the conditions in the park were worse than yesterday with the roads and snow now having frozen.  The police were stopping vehicles from entering at Kingston Gate (and advised me to walk my bike).  I took the flattest route via the middle and down to Robin Hood Gate, then Roehampton Gate.  I only saw one other cyclist the entire time, a person on a road bike heading for Broomfield Hill.

Then there was a huge tailback of vehicles down Priory Lane to negotiate as they had all tried to get in the park and then had to turn back, was one of the few times it was more convenient to use the cycle path.

It was lots of fun but I was very slow in getting to work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 07 January, 2010, 11:08:51 am
Rode in to work today. I left home about 9:30 (there was a telecon to India between 8:30 and 9:30, so I decided to do that from home and avoid the traffic).

This was typical of my route in; the main roads were easily passable by bike, just the minor ones had any problems.
(http://haigh.org/20100107.jpg)
(that is the A30 between Hartley Wintney and Hook, near Basingstoke).

Most cars gave a wide berth and were very patient - though at 20mph on most of these roads I was only marginally slower than they were going anyway.

The only real idiot I got was riding along our road; it is only about 500m, but it was compacted snow with only the width of a car available (the rest was 8-9 inches of snow). So why did the white Astra van driver think it was worthwhile driving inches from me honking his horn? Where was I going to go? And he only had to wait until the end of the road at worst.  ???

I have to say, it was tempting to skip work and just carry on riding  :)

The few people who made it in today in cars are currently sitting around discussing digging in the snow at lunchtime to make sure they can get their cars out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 07 January, 2010, 01:09:11 pm
Last night I made it home much more successfully than any of the cars I saw, despite all the stupidity drivers displayed. I can't be bothered to even rant about it.

South Circular outside our house (an urban dual carriageway):
(http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t299/jacomus-rides-Gen/Cycling%20pics/IMG_0170.jpg)
(http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t299/jacomus-rides-Gen/Cycling%20pics/IMG_0169.jpg)
Nice ride through the park this morning. Slow and steady, very much fun.

(http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t299/jacomus-rides-Gen/Cycling%20pics/IMG_0172.jpg)
(http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t299/jacomus-rides-Gen/Cycling%20pics/IMG_0173.jpg)
Riding on the roads was a bit nasty, too many motons not giving a shit about the conditions.

One extremely scary moment on Kennington Road. I was blasting along at 18-20mph, when I spotted a bus sized patch of compressed slush at a bus stop (I presume because a bus had been stood there when the gritter went past). A truck was overtaking me, so a bail out into the next lane was off the cards and by now I was too close to e-stop... I braked for a couple of meters before letting them off and attempting to relax my grip on the bike to hit the slush. Everything got very wobbly and I somehow managed to ignore the stupid part of my brain that was screaming "BRAKE! BRAAAAAKE!" and got off the compressed slush. My HR was through the roof and I was shaky from a massive dose of adrenaline that had been dumped into my bloodstream. There was a cyclist infront and behind, and when we looked at each other as we got ourselves together after the scare, we all had that same "bloody hell" look on our faces ;D

Other than that, a relatively uneventful ride - I was pleased I cycled.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: scampi on 07 January, 2010, 01:26:08 pm
I managed half a mile this morning before getting scared and turning round for home.  My route is usually nicely gritted but today even the roads in the town were dicey.  It wasn't so much the ride in, it was more the thought of negotiating the same roads home this evening in the dark if they were still bad.

So car for me today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RichL on 07 January, 2010, 01:57:19 pm
Skived yesterday as the early trains were cancelled Bristol TM - Swindon, and because I didn't think the folder would be up to it...

So I went out on the fixie and bought a couple of new tyres for my Stumpjumper, fettled it and then went for a ride instead, stopping off at TM to book the bike on the train for today and Friday.

This morning rode on semi-packed snow along the river into TM, then along the canal and railway paths once in Swindon. Really enjoyable commute, tempered only by news of cockroaches on the desks at work ???.

Rich
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 07 January, 2010, 04:40:53 pm
You're all managing to make me feel like a right wuss. I haven't ridden in since Dec 17th and it's mostly 'cause I'm scared of falling off (again).  :-[
In my defence I'd either have to walk 2 or add an extra 5 miles each way because the lanes are sheet ice, but even so...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 07 January, 2010, 07:36:20 pm
Today I swapped my trike for the Surly fixed with the studded tyres. I'm so glad to get another bit of use for them 'cos I've had them for three or four years.  :-[

Five miles of ice and seven miles of gritted roads were fine on the way in, but the amount of ice remaining on the way home was much less, so it was a drag. But the commute was brilliant, again. Glorious, glorious, glorious. What a way to start a working day!!!!!

I was warm and toasty despite -7 degrees. My cunning plan involved two pairs of gloves, overshoes over winter boots, three buffs and a bin bag taped over my helmet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 07 January, 2010, 07:43:20 pm
Quote from: Gordy on 07 January, 2010, 07:36:20 pm
I was warm and toasty despite -7 degrees. My cunning plan involved two pairs of gloves, overshoes over winter boots, three buffs and a bin bag taped over my helmet.

I can think of no comment that would not condemn this to NSFW except for......
bragging or complaining?
 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 07 January, 2010, 08:05:20 pm
The commute home today was harder than the commute in yesterday (the two being interrupted by an extended fettling session on the front brakes).  The bit of snow we had in that gap doesn't seem to have cleared quite as well as the earlier snow, and the slush is also getting dirtier, so harder to spot at night.

I only had to adopt primary a couple of times, when the slush was too far out for me to be anywhere else, and the drivers were patient, presumably since I was going over speed bumps to avoid the slush, they realised that I wasn't just doing it to annoy them!

The traffic was still quite light for the time of day, I would normally have expected a lot busier roads at that time, so people are obviously still avoiding driving.

My one attempt to leave the main roads, onto what is normally a busy side road was aborted when I realised I was cycling on ice with a layer of slush on top.  One quick retrace later, and I was back on the main road, one-way system around Streatham, normally pretty lethal, but which was still preferential to the ice, and as is turned out, relatively quiet traffic-wise.

I'm undecided whether to continue cycling tomorrow.  With the forecast low temperatures, the icy bits are just going to get icier. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 07 January, 2010, 08:14:13 pm
Quote from: TimO on 07 January, 2010, 08:05:20 pm
I'm undecided whether to continue cycling tomorrow.  With the forecast low temperatures, the icy bits are just going to get icier. :-\

It does tend to get worse after the initial snowfall as the snow gets compact and becmes solid ice. Even worse when it gets rutted.
It'd be great if you had some studded tyres.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 07 January, 2010, 08:16:32 pm
Quote from: teethgrinder on 07 January, 2010, 08:14:13 pm
...It'd be great if you had some studded tyres.

Fecking slow postage system...<fume>...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 07 January, 2010, 09:24:48 pm
That was . . . interesting.

There is something curiously liberating about the weather being so bad that it is unreasonable to maintain any sort of speed. Instead, the journey becomes complete in itself, without any demands to reach the destination. 

2hrs 40min for 35miles  ::-)
No '6 miles of hard ice', instead it was hard-packed snow, not at all slippery.  However, the blizzard did knock some of the enjoyment off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 07 January, 2010, 09:37:04 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 07 January, 2010, 09:24:48 pm
2hrs 40min for 35miles  ::-)

That'll be faster than my usual everyday normal weather average speed then.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 08 January, 2010, 12:14:34 am
Bugger me

That was cold. Down as low as -12 according to some drivers (and i've upped that a couple of degrees to compensate car thermo accuracy)

Had to stop and go home after 100m to de-ice the gear cable runs. Was also having problems with the free hub going into neutral if I stopped peddling. Have to say - once it reaches a temperature where the bike stops working properly I wonder......

Also had the dubious pleasure, of experiencing for the first time, moisture in the nostrils freezing. Felt odd!

Still - bike is stored in the warm tonight, so should all be set for the morning. I'll get into trouble though cos it's dropped loads of black mush onto the downstairs toilet floor.   ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 08 January, 2010, 09:00:32 am
Continuing my temporary mostly train commute..., as I got off the train and wheeled my bike along the platform a guard came running up to me, "Switch that red light off you are stopping the train!"  Not easy with a dynamo light.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: FyPuNK on 08 January, 2010, 09:08:23 am
Last night journey was tops, we finish our clinic at 7pm, by this time the roads were clear of metal boxes, been gritted (well upto Blackpool) and the road was clear of ice, it was the first time this year I have been able to clip in all the way and plod along at 24kph.
This morning and the prats are back out, inpatient as ever and normality has returned!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cyclone on 08 January, 2010, 09:22:24 am
What a difference a set of knobblies makes! Slow but super stable with loadsa traction - Now all I have to do is get used to the mtb riding position as everything was seizing up (not as fkexible as I was 15 years ago  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 January, 2010, 09:37:06 am
Cor, that was icy in places! :o

And slow.  A bitter headwind.  Not hard, but just a constant, freezing resistance like pushing a block of ice.  My legs are knackered after a longish lay-off over Christmas straight back into an icy Full House this week.

But I'm here.  I'm a wee bit late for work, cause I woke up late and over-faffed.  I realised as I got moving that this was all subconscious, and I was just avoidig setting off in the dark.

And I have the rare delight of London's extra maggoty warmth and high levels of gritting allowing me to creep temporarily into the club top 5 on Bikejournal.   8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 08 January, 2010, 09:51:53 am
Trains suspended on the branch line to the office, and my normal route of A30 - A325 being singletrack in each direction through the snow I bottled it and dug out the car this morning.  :-[

A30 - A322 - M3 all clear and flowwing well provided you remained in the wheel tracks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wascally Weasel on 08 January, 2010, 09:59:31 am
Quote from: clarion on 08 January, 2010, 09:37:06 am
And I have the rare delight of London's extra maggoty warmth and high levels of gritting allowing me to creep temporarily into the club top 5 on Bikejournal.   8)

I hope you enjoyed your brief stint there  ;D

I too am enjoying my brief sojourn at an unaccustomed place in the table.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 08 January, 2010, 10:26:36 am
Quote from: clarion on 08 January, 2010, 09:37:06 am
Cor, that was icy in places! :o

And slow.  A bitter headwind.  Not hard, but just a constant, freezing resistance like pushing a block of ice.  My legs are knackered after a longish lay-off over Christmas straight back into an icy Full House this week.

But I'm here.  I'm a wee bit late for work, cause I woke up late and over-faffed.  I realised as I got moving that this was all subconscious, and I was just avoidig setting off in the dark.

And I have the rare delight of London's extra maggoty warmth and high levels of gritting allowing me to creep temporarily into the club top 5 on Bikejournal.   8)

That headwind was a killer, absolutely horrible to cycle into :(

Not to much driver idiocy this morning, which was pleasant.

Again though, I'm not looking forward to the ride home this evening - I was a nervous wreck last night. Hopefully tonight should be better, but I'm already on edge about it. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 January, 2010, 10:46:48 am
Not too much driver idiocy? :o

Your batch must have been diverted to the A3!  The first motorist I encountered came within a squeak of dooring me.  Fortunately, I was travelling very slowly.  Then there was a whole battalion of motons who think that squeezing past with oncoming traffic, leaving me just inches to spare, is a great idea in icy conditions.  Cabs swerving in front & U-turning, Police swerving into the Bus Lane without looking, and (different vehicle), abruptly swinging across the road for an unsignalled 3pt turn - neither responding to emergencies.  Oh crikey, there were so many more... Numpties, the lot of them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: FyPuNK on 08 January, 2010, 11:08:34 am
I have just spoke to Brian, he works at our other practice in Cleveleys, he was telling me up there he has had nothing but abuse from motons, verbal abuse, aggressive driving etc, bit different to the south of the Fylde coast.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: geoff on 08 January, 2010, 02:06:26 pm
here in Oxford, quiet roads, polite drivers and ice on all the lanes homewards. Zen


(In by MTB across the fields in 20 cm of snow yesterday...v. hard work but I only fell off once)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: domesticated ape on 08 January, 2010, 08:29:13 pm
I've had three snowy commutes this week, went in on Wednesday through deep snow, the only people who made it into work who don't live within walking distance were me and one other who also biked (both about 12 mile commutes).
Back from work on Wednesday I did half bike half train and only went on main roads so that wasn't too hard, had to wait ages for the train though.
Rode in again yesterday, tried to ride as much as possible despite being on country lanes that resembled ski runs for about half the journey! Then got a lift back with someone cos I was feeling knackered by the end of the day. Only had one unplanned dismount out of the three journeys, and I hopped off and stayed on my feet when the bike went down.
It's been hard but pretty fun, hopefully I'll manage to get back out on the bike this weekend for a bit more snow-riding!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: coll_coll on 08 January, 2010, 08:45:10 pm
Ipswich, outbound Woodbridge Road just past Kesgrave school - abuse from passing Galaxy - probably passenger. Caught up (!) with them moved alongside (nearside) whilst stationery at pedestrian lights to advise passenger that the highway code means I can use the gritted road rather than the 3+ inch snow covered cycle path (crossing multiple side roads with inherent crossing traffic hazard);

and galaxy pulls away and sharply to the left impacting me (slush ice snow dark)... I stay up, note number - now waiting for call back from a police officer (rather than the civilian assistant who just called asking if i wanted to see a police officer ?!)

ffs
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 January, 2010, 08:47:45 pm
Zoomed home.  Well, not quite, but it felt like it, with a bit of a tailwind, and the roads relatively clear.  One of those times when, though the legs are definitely feeling 'Friday', they just keep moving like a metronome, almost by themselves, and you're taken along for the ride, able to just enjoy gliding homeward.

Got left-hooked in the same place (Walworth Road Roundabout) for the third day running, though. ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: peliroja on 08 January, 2010, 08:56:14 pm
Intimidated by a bully of a policeman today, sitting squarely in his car in an ASL box. Bloody Met.  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: longers on 09 January, 2010, 08:26:57 am
Todays commute was lovely and quiet. Better than Fridays where two bits of driving had me in fear of my life    
a bit worried.

I left 10 minutes later than normal and the sun was on its way up by the time I got here  :thumbsup:

And I was wearing the overgloves recommended upthread by MrCharly. Toasty! Thanks for that.

And it's snowing again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: FyPuNK on 09 January, 2010, 08:42:25 am
Really nice quiet ride in today, dusting of fresh snow on the ground.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 January, 2010, 09:38:28 am
Last night's snow barely evident on the roads today.  What there was was a whole towering scrapheap of cars with drivers who seem to have forgotten how to drive during their enforced lay-off. :-\

But it was a good ride nonetheless. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 11 January, 2010, 10:14:56 am
Not a very nice ride in today  :( Our road has gone from hard packed snow - which was rideable with care - to moderately hard with uneven ice beneath. The tyres bite down into the snow, whihc is hard enough to be difficult to ride forwards through, hit the ice and divert you into random directions. It takes some bike-ninja skills to keep upright, but it'd take forever to push the bike down the footpath, which still has quite deep snow. Lots of like-a-bike style pushing it along.

The main road was reasonably clear, but only one lane all the way up the A30. Many more people were out today and driving much faster, so holding them up became more of an issue. A nice bit of wheel spinny black ice up to the big roundabout between the Basingstoke ring road and the A33 added to the fun.

Then, arriving at work, the car park had been cleared over the weekend by the business park landlord (on Friday they had only cleared the roads through the car park, meaning that as soon as anyone pulled into a parking space they were stuck). Of course all that snow has to go somewhere, so there are huge piles of it around the carpark, and a small pile that has to be crossed by bikes getting into the bike shed. None of the footpaths around the bike shed area have been cleared either.

It was still better than driving in  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 11 January, 2010, 10:20:28 am
Gutted - I've got a chest lurgy that won't shift, and couldn't work yesterday anyway due to the snow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Russell on 11 January, 2010, 10:29:10 am
Had to walk the bike to the road at the bottom of our road then the conditions were slushy but ridable (thin tyred folder) the long way round to the A325 which was fine but I kept out of the gutter by a long way.  Trains packed but running on time then roads through Surbtion, Kingston, RP and Kew were fine but the traffic was very heavy!

Got quite warm, overdressed I think!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 11 January, 2010, 10:35:53 am
My first ride to work since Dec 14th. (Lay-off was not weather induced.)

Roads between Raynes Park and Sunbury almost completely clear of slush/ice.

Too warm with skull cap, longs, two l/s jerseys and gloves.

Nice to know that a near one month lay off hasn't resulted in my becoming either too unfit or too porky.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 11 January, 2010, 07:37:19 pm
On the way home:

*     My spongegrip failed

*     Batteries ran out in both front lights

*     Yards from home I nearly skidded into a parked car. My car :facepalm: At least the experience I got from blasting along on the hardpacked snow on my mtb were put into practise :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 January, 2010, 10:22:58 pm
I've had two sets of batteries give out today :(  Can't believe that the Duracell rechargables didn't manage more than an hour :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 12 January, 2010, 11:20:21 am
Roads mostly clear, York to Leeds. Verges and hard shoulders still covered with ice and snow, so I'm sticking to the back roads. That's nice, but it's 3 miles further. The icy drizzle ain't all that pleasant either.
Shedloads of people commuting in cars. Busiest I've seen it in years.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul D on 12 January, 2010, 11:39:56 am
I pass a young bloke on an old MTB most mornings (a surprising occurance for darkest Dorset). He's either pretty keen or, more likely, has to get to his job 6 miles away but doesn't have a car. Public transport is a bit like magic round here - it might exist but nobody has actually seen any to confirm or deny it.

This morning he hadn't got a (working) rear light, which after our usual "Morning" exchange I mentioned to him. I offered my clip-on light off the back of my bag. He declined. "I'm only going to Winterborne Kingston" he said. Yeah, at 7am, on a fast, dark A road. But no, he definately didn't want the light. I did the rest of my commute wondering how I'd feel if he got knocked off.  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: urban_biker on 12 January, 2010, 11:45:53 am
Quote from: Paul D on 12 January, 2010, 11:39:56 am
I pass a young bloke on an old MTB most mornings (a surprising occurance for darkest Dorset). He's either pretty keen or, more likely, has to get to his job 6 miles away but doesn't have a car. Public transport is a bit like magic round here - it might exist but nobody has actually seen any to confirm or deny it.

This morning he hadn't got a (working) rear light, which after our usual "Morning" exchange I mentioned to him. I offered my clip-on light off the back of my bag. He declined. "I'm only going to Winterborne Kingston" he said. Yeah, at 7am, on a fast, dark A road. But no, he definately didn't want the light. I did the rest of my commute wondering how I'd feel if he got knocked off.  :-\

You should have pushed him off and held him down forceably while you attached your spare rear light to his bike. Or , maybe not  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 12 January, 2010, 11:49:01 am
After half an hour of hunting a cat so that I could shut it out of the alarmed parts of the house and head off to work, I set off down the road on my newly cleaned bike.  Met a Jurek and had a brief chat.  At the end of the road there's a left turn.  Well, there should have been, but as I approached the relevant bit of road I suddenly found myself on ice.  My 23mm tyres didn't agree with my plan to turn left and I skittered over to the other side of the road, up onto the pavement and decelerated rather suddenly against a fence.  That was a bit more excitement than I needed.

Then on the way through New Cross a Dulwich Paragon rider skimmed past me so close that his elbow brushed mine. What an arrogant twunt.  I'm half tempted to post a message on the club forum about crap riding by people in club kit but it wouldn't help.  And anyway I've ceased to feel any loyalty to DP and haven't renewed my membership.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: FyPuNK on 12 January, 2010, 12:31:55 pm
This mornings journey in was not the best, head winds are back and the roads for the most part are clear but there are still patches where I have to ride out a little to avoid. The biggest problem for me was my back, I had a propper feet in the air back slapper crossing the road on Sunday, landed on my coxit after a about 4 miles it was starting to hurt.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 January, 2010, 12:33:07 pm
Ouch!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 12 January, 2010, 12:44:19 pm
Quote from: PaulR on 12 January, 2010, 11:49:01 am
Then on the way through New Cross a Dulwich Paragon rider skimmed past me so close that his elbow brushed mine. What an arrogant twunt.  I'm half tempted to post a message on the club forum about crap riding by people in club kit but it wouldn't help.  And anyway I've ceased to feel any loyalty to DP and haven't renewed my membership.

If I were you I would post a message on their forum, that is really bad overtaking.  >:( Plus I would have said (like I did to another cyclist the other day): 'you are such a f*cking crap cyclist'.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 12 January, 2010, 12:54:03 pm
OTOH it might be more productive to start from a polite point of view.  Given that many are racing cyclists, the person responsible might have no clue that such a close overtake is not very good quality riding on the roads.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 12 January, 2010, 05:06:43 pm
I'm not sure I have the appetite for more grief.  I have to bite my tongue a bit about DP riders (I have friends and family in the Paragon, not to mention having been a member myself).  Nothing I have seen from them seems anywhere near as bad as the reports I hear about Dynamo riders, and I've found them OK on rides such as the RotFL and DD.  I had a bit of an iffy ride with them a few months ago and then there seems to have been a spate of problems with their club runs getting a bit out of hand, so I'm steering clear.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cyclone on 12 January, 2010, 05:37:07 pm
Yesterday near death experience courtsey of a bus driver...lights on down hill just managed to squeeze past after he pulled out of a T-junction from the right...
Today f***y visit whilst late for meeting. And a nice blizzard to return home in  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Zipperhead on 12 January, 2010, 05:57:42 pm
Quote from: PaulR on 12 January, 2010, 05:06:43 pm
I'm not sure I have the appetite for more grief.  I have to bite my tongue a bit about DP riders (I have friends and family in the Paragon, not to mention having been a member myself).  Nothing I have seen from them seems anywhere near as bad as the reports I hear about Dynamo riders, and I've found them OK on rides such as the RotFL and DD.  I had a bit of an iffy ride with them a few months ago and then there seems to have been a spate of problems with their club runs getting a bit out of hand, so I'm steering clear.

My experience is that people who commute in club colours ride like tossers.

You would think that if you have big words advertising your cycling club all over your back then it would be a good idea to ride sensibly and within the law, not jump red lights, ride on the pavement, nearly hit pedestrians on crossings etc.

But they don't, so if I see someone riding in club gear then, like those who ride with "Hump" rucksack covers, I think to myself "it's very kind of you to wear a sign telling me that you're an idiot, I won't be surprised when you act like one".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 12 January, 2010, 06:29:03 pm
Quote from: Zipperhead on 12 January, 2010, 05:57:42 pm
My experience is that people who commute in club colours ride like tossers.

<fx>Quickly throws away yacf jerseys</fx>
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Rig of Jarkness on 12 January, 2010, 07:13:52 pm
Quote from: Zipperhead on 12 January, 2010, 05:57:42 pm
My experience is that people who commute in club colours ride like tossers.

My experience is that people who label other people as tossers dependent upon what design of jersey they are wearing are making absurd generalisations.  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 12 January, 2010, 07:33:27 pm
Quote from: Charterhall on 12 January, 2010, 07:13:52 pm
Quote from: Zipperhead on 12 January, 2010, 05:57:42 pm
My experience is that people who commute in club colours ride like tossers.

My experience is that people who label other people as tossers dependent upon what design of jersey they are wearing are making absurd generalisations.  :demon:

Normally I'd agree.....but I've had too many vortexes in Richmond Park.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: geoff on 12 January, 2010, 08:09:33 pm
Commute by omnibus today...MTB commute on slushy-snow'n'ice was such hard work that I need a rest (also MTB riding-position doesn't help).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 12 January, 2010, 09:35:48 pm
Like the previous post on this, I don't think the DP are anything like as bad as the dynamo.  The only thing I've seen from the DP is riding right in the 'kin door zone on club rides.  A dooring will take out half the club in that situation.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Zipperhead on 12 January, 2010, 09:51:33 pm
Quote from: Charterhall on 12 January, 2010, 07:13:52 pm
Quote from: Zipperhead on 12 January, 2010, 05:57:42 pm
My experience is that people who commute in club colours ride like tossers.

My experience is that people who label other people as tossers dependent upon what design of jersey they are wearing are making absurd generalisations.  :demon:

With respect, you don't commute in London, if you did you might find yourself agreeing with me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 13 January, 2010, 09:02:03 am
Very, very interesting commute this morning....  :D

Temperature a couple of degrees below 0C.
Light drizzle of supercooled rain.
This hits the ground and promptly freezes over giving a beautiful smooth sheet ice surface.
Cars and pedestrians sliding all over the place. Sheffield city centre apparently at a complete standstill with people with broken limbs lying all over the place waiting for ambulances. (Or so SWMBO has informed me when I phoned to see how she was getting on - she could not get to work)
I passed a couple of "lets slide across the road and demolish the oncoming sliding vehicle" accidents.
Winter tyres coped fine; could not easily stay upright on my feet when I had to stop but once cycling it was OK  :)
1 hour for the 15 miles.  :smug:
I wear a helmet with a helmet cover to keep my head warm in these conditions and, by the time I got to work, it had accumulated a layer of crinkly ice all over...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 13 January, 2010, 09:05:53 am
I failed.  10 cm minimum of snow overnight and riding with it up to my MTB rims was really difficult.  I tried the main road and initially it was fine but when I got to an area that was full of snow drifts yesterday I cam undone.  A snow plough had been through yesterday afternoon but it had not been cleared as well as it could.  The new snow on top of the rough surface did me in.  I was crawling up this bit plus it got deeper.  I turned around and tried a different route but decided not to bother.

I do not think I could do that for 17 miles ( shortest route to work ) and then back again.

I also can work from home so what is the point - kept going through my head.

8.46 miles in 1 hr 2 mins !! 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 13 January, 2010, 09:20:32 am
Interesting journey :-\

What a bunch of arsewits behind their steering wheels! FFS people! Conditions, even here in Teh Big Smoke, are crap - why can't people driver slower and more carefully ???

Too drained to post about the rest.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 13 January, 2010, 09:25:10 am
Yes, but on my MTB, decided that the single speed would make the journey too interesting. Cold and wet but otherwise OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 13 January, 2010, 09:25:56 am
Quote from: Jacomus on 13 January, 2010, 09:20:32 am
Interesting journey :-\

What a bunch of arsewits behind their steering wheels! FFS people! Conditions, even here in Teh Big Smoke, are crap - why can't people driver slower and more carefully ???

Too drained to post about the rest.

Sorry for those who've had tough ones. They weren't too bad on mine. One WVM undertook me where I was riding wide to avoid a big slush pile, only to go straight into the big queue on Waterloo bridge where they have closed off half of it, whereupon I serenely cycled past him.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 13 January, 2010, 09:37:12 am
All last week I used the WindcheetahSNOLeopard, and took a route that was almost entirely traffic-free.
The thaw this Monday took me by surprise, and I arrived at work covered in road-splash.  Slush on top of ice meant no grip and lots of splash on the paths and closed roads, and the on-road bits were just WET.
Wimped out and took the Omnibus yesterday.
Day off today - the nice man from E-On has just arrived to fit a new electricity mete %$&&* {#  +++ NO CARRIER
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 13 January, 2010, 10:25:15 am
Took the pub-bike today.  So that I could ride in walking boots.
It only has those silly shorty aluminium mudguards.  Ooh, very wet botty.

Amazed at the consideration, space and holding back by other road users.   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RichL on 13 January, 2010, 10:34:57 am
I met a woman at Swindon station who turned out to have just started work as Cycling Development Officer for the CTC. Rode with her until she turned off.

Best job in the world? Perhaps.

In other news: messy on the roads, but I'm still convinced I've had the best commute of anybody over the last week. The only time I did get the car out I bent it, so went right back to the bike again.

Rich
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 January, 2010, 10:38:02 am
Bending cars = not good.

Hope you're OK & that it isn't an expensive bend.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 13 January, 2010, 10:38:35 am
I rode my bike for the first time this year!  Only a couple of miles but it was my first bike commute of 2010, and I'm off to the next site in an hour or so which would be a half hour-ish walk but it won't be cos I'm on my bike :)

Although I did get half way to work and realise that my front light had stopped working... had forgotten to check batteries after a couple of weeks off  :facepalm:

Fortunately I was a couple of minutes walk from a corner shop.  And since getting to work I've been to see site management to acquire some spares for the rear light which I noticed was no longer quite as bright as it should be.

My new bike is officially very lovely indeed, btw.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 January, 2010, 10:40:17 am
Yay! 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RichL on 13 January, 2010, 11:30:43 am
+1 Yay! for first ride of the year  ;)

The car isn't bent badly ta clarion - just moderate muppetry on my part. It's not worth anything, but I have been trying to keep it in as decent condition as possible just for the  sheer obtuseness of driving an immaculate car that really should be a compete beater or in the scrapyard by now.

Rich
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 January, 2010, 11:31:18 am
;D :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 14 January, 2010, 09:39:47 am
Still no ride-y bike-y.

The 2 cm of snow on top of ice yesterday afternoon just refreshed the slush.

I've been feeling bad about not riding so I measured it, it's like this:

House to road 300m slush topped ice. I'd walk this except
Road to village- 1 mile slush topped ice
Village road- 2.5 miles shallow slush with patches of black ice (single track lane) or alternative route 0.5 mile shallow slush
Main road- 1 mile clear (yay!) or if alternative route 4 miles
Walsham road- 2-6 miles some slush in middle of the road- rideable
Lane- choice of 3 but all are 1.5 miles of ice-topped slush, including some patches of black ice and on north facing 'slope' hard packed skiddy white stuff
Badwell Road- 2-6 miles as Walsham road above
Long Thurlow road- 2 miles shallow slush
Lane to work- 1 mile deep slush on top of ice.

I reckon I could walk a mile to get to a rideable road but I'd end up walking more than half my route. It'd take me 3 hours to get to work :(

I wish I either lived or worked in a town....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 14 January, 2010, 09:55:13 am
I had another good commute today, but those studded tyres sure are hard work. My legs are aching. I scasred myself a few times by riding too fast on icy bits, but managed to stay upright - the maniac grin might have helped.

Motor traffic light.

My only issue is dealing with hand-wringing colleagues who seem to think that my cycling is (even more) dangerous than usual. Yet the town is awash with pranged cars and bent lampposts - most staff who drive are late in and desparate to leave early because of "the roads."

THE PROBLEM IS THE CARS, YOU IDIOTS, NOT THE ROADS.

And breathe.......
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Rig of Jarkness on 15 January, 2010, 04:24:21 pm
Rode home in daylight for the first time this year !  :thumbsup:  (It helped that I skived off completed my assigned tasks at quarter to 4. ;))
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 15 January, 2010, 05:05:45 pm
Quarter to four? I don't know how anyone can work 'till that time of night, I had two lates this week 'till ten past four and it nearly killed me.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 15 January, 2010, 05:19:57 pm
Quote from: Gandalf on 15 January, 2010, 05:05:45 pm
Quarter to four? I don't know how anyone can work 'till that time of night, I had two lates this week 'till ten past four and it nearly killed me.  :)

You are a postie and ICMFP!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 15 January, 2010, 05:39:05 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 15 January, 2010, 05:19:57 pm
Quote from: Gandalf on 15 January, 2010, 05:05:45 pm
Quarter to four? I don't know how anyone can work 'till that time of night, I had two lates this week 'till ten past four and it nearly killed me.  :)

You are a postie and ICMFP!!

Nope, though I used to be one back in the seventies, worked out of Streatham.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 15 January, 2010, 05:51:53 pm
LOL, I do remember where you work - your PM re the two chaps I came across at Victoria.  It was supposed to be a less bad joke.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 15 January, 2010, 07:21:01 pm
Keep schtum, especially around JRG  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RichL on 15 January, 2010, 07:22:18 pm
My first full house on the Bristol - Swindon commute this week. I know it isn't far, and not at all intrepid, but I'm very pleased with myself. I'm only in for 4 days next week, so I'll have to take the long short cut every day and use the stealthy SS folder to get the same moderately smug feeling.

Rich
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: longers on 17 January, 2010, 08:09:51 am
I is idiot. I've now got another left hander to be wary of. I should have been warier to begin with.

3rd off so far this year, second pair of overshoes ruined and a pair of better ventilated bibs are now my own.

Cosmetic damage to me and the bike - ibuprofen should start working soon I hope.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 18 January, 2010, 08:45:32 am
First fixed commute - well, first half anyway. Great to be on the bike again  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 18 January, 2010, 09:10:11 am
I cycled.

YAY!

There is fog, there was a little bit of crispy puddles but I am here in one piece.

It took forever. I now appear to ascend faster than I descend.  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: border-rider on 18 January, 2010, 09:12:29 am
good work FBOAB :)

Take it gently, and enjoy the view on the way down.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: handcyclist on 18 January, 2010, 09:48:20 am
Quote from: longers on 17 January, 2010, 08:09:51 am

3rd off so far this year,


 :o

Blimey. Hope isn't too sore this time. Take it easy on the way home!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 January, 2010, 10:02:39 am
Well done, fb.  I'm very cautious about riding now.  I was completely wussy downhill at the weekends, and normally I'm a fast descender. :-[

I'm dealing with the car-infested roads a few metres at a time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MSeries on 18 January, 2010, 10:04:47 am
I got called a 'Fixie Dude' by another cyclist.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 18 January, 2010, 10:06:58 am
FBOAB, FWIW I'm a good 10km/hour slower than normal on descents at the moment.  Damp roads, low temperatures and more clothing and fear means that I'm a lot slower than in the spring and summer.

I also did my first ride yesterday and loved it, despite being slower than normal and still coughing with the remnants of lurgy.  It seems I've lost huge amounts of fitness in the last four weeks, so it's lots of slow commuting for the next 4 or 5 months until my fitness comes back in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 18 January, 2010, 10:07:39 am
Oh, and I told a fixie dude he lost on handlbar length.  He laughed!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 18 January, 2010, 11:01:23 am
First Ride in of the year  :thumbsup:

I have since had to spend 1/2 and hour on fillthathole.org.uk reporting various bits of minefield.

Matthew
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 18 January, 2010, 11:07:20 am
First ride since last weds.  Was ice/snow then I had a cold.  Felt great when I got to work.  I had been concerned that I would feel dead tired but the ride enlivened me I feel fabulous.  It was quite a nice morning too, quite bright after sunrise.

Possibly my last commute on the single speed, the new bike is nearly ready and will steal the single speeds front wheel/saddle/SQR.  End of an era.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: kcass on 18 January, 2010, 11:48:31 am
Quote from: fboab on 18 January, 2010, 09:10:11 am
I cycled.

YAY!

There is fog, there was a little bit of crispy puddles but I am here in one piece.

It took forever. I now appear to ascend faster than I descend.  :-\

Hooray! Well done. I'm glad you're back. I'm counting on your support on some of these silly long rides we're about to do
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 18 January, 2010, 12:41:27 pm
First commute this year on the fast bike*

2.5mph faster average than the studded tyre equipped MTB.

Yay.

*fast for me, means 32mm shod alfine equipped hybrid.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 18 January, 2010, 02:47:48 pm
First commute on new chain-free rubber-band-drive bike.  Nothing to report; it's quiet (like a nicely-running chain) and doesn't appear to be losing me huge amounts of energy.  Here's a pic from Trek's website: Clicky (http://www.trekbikes.com/uk/en/bikes/urban/soho/soho/)

But these Shimano Roller brakes appear to need some substantial 'bedding-in'.  They're very 'progressive' - pull the levers harder, and it stops harder - but a couple of scary moments occurred when I wanted the bike to stop even sharper.

The previous commuter bike was 26" wheels, and this has 700c.  So it feels a lot bigger.  The gears are quite high - and getting different sizes of chainbelt-ring and sprocket is going to be a nightmare - so I'm stuck with these ratios.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 18 January, 2010, 05:14:32 pm
Finally got around to fitting my helmet cam today.  It was really strange but the motons were very well behaved, I can't believe that they could spot the camera though.

I'm sure normal service will be resumed tomorrow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 18 January, 2010, 05:38:41 pm
I enjoyed riding in on tyres that are pumped up nice and hard today. I was riding in at least a whole gear higher than over the last few weeks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pippa on 18 January, 2010, 08:04:26 pm
First commute in of the year - and let there be many more (after a rather paltry 5 or so cycle commutes last year!!! :-[ ).

I did it on my fixed as well :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 18 January, 2010, 08:21:21 pm
Another one back on the bike for the first time this year.   :D

And three of us did just over 9 miles at lunchtime
(mountain bikes on a road ride - that's why we're slow - that's our excuse and we're sticking to it)

Steve
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 18 January, 2010, 08:22:59 pm
First commute since mid-November today.  On the ride in I was as quick as a sloth on Valium.  Moved much better on the ride home until around Mile End where traffic got in the way.  I even had to filter coming down Col du Bow.  :o

Looking forward to commuting again tomorrow — and the rest of the week.  :)
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 18 January, 2010, 08:53:23 pm
My first seven miles of the year. The gutters are filled with grit and crud from the melted snow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 18 January, 2010, 09:22:14 pm
A lovely ride, followed someone for a few miles, which was nicer than riding by myself even if we didn't speak.

Then got a puncture 2 miles from home <grrr>. So walked the rest of the way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 18 January, 2010, 09:53:08 pm
Quote from: rower40 on 18 January, 2010, 02:47:48 pm
First commute on new chain-free rubber-band-drive bike.  Nothing to report; it's quiet (like a nicely-running chain) and doesn't appear to be losing me huge amounts of energy.  Here's a pic from Trek's website: Clicky (http://www.trekbikes.com/uk/en/bikes/urban/soho/soho/)

But these Shimano Roller brakes appear to need some substantial 'bedding-in'.  They're very 'progressive' - pull the levers harder, and it stops harder - but a couple of scary moments occurred when I wanted the bike to stop even sharper.

The previous commuter bike was 26" wheels, and this has 700c.  So it feels a lot bigger.  The gears are quite high - and getting different sizes of chainbelt-ring and sprocket is going to be a nightmare - so I'm stuck with these ratios.

It was roller brakes that put me off that bike when I got my Giant. Annoyingly the previous years version had disks, but also chain drive. I'm sure one day soon they'll do a disk brake belt drive version.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 18 January, 2010, 10:12:08 pm
Quote from: tonycollinet on 18 January, 2010, 09:53:08 pm
Quote from: rower40 on 18 January, 2010, 02:47:48 pm
First commute on new chain-free rubber-band-drive bike.  Nothing to report; it's quiet (like a nicely-running chain) and doesn't appear to be losing me huge amounts of energy.  Here's a pic from Trek's website: Clicky (http://www.trekbikes.com/uk/en/bikes/urban/soho/soho/)

But these Shimano Roller brakes appear to need some substantial 'bedding-in'.  They're very 'progressive' - pull the levers harder, and it stops harder - but a couple of scary moments occurred when I wanted the bike to stop even sharper.

The previous commuter bike was 26" wheels, and this has 700c.  So it feels a lot bigger.  The gears are quite high - and getting different sizes of chainbelt-ring and sprocket is going to be a nightmare - so I'm stuck with these ratios.

It was roller brakes that put me off that bike when I got my Giant. Annoyingly the previous years version had disks, but also chain drive. I'm sure one day soon they'll do a disk brake belt drive version.

I was talking to a friend at work about my Ridgeback Nemesis recently. I was really surprised to see that Ridgeback have dropped it from their current line-up. You have pretty much no choice if you want an off the peg hub-geared/disc braked bike. I think there's only the Cannondale (expensive) and Charge left.
I did look all the rollerbraked bikes, but all of the poor reviews of the brakes put me off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 18 January, 2010, 10:19:11 pm
Gordy found a very pretty Merida (Spresso?  Maybe - I remember it was sort-of coffee coloured...) with an alfine hub and disk brakes when I was bike-hunting - out of price range, and not available thorugh our C2W scheme, unfortunatey.  I saw another one somewhere too, but I can't remember off the top of my head what it was...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 18 January, 2010, 10:25:47 pm
...but I think it might have been this Civia Bryant - Commuting and Transportation Bicycles (http://www.civiacycles.com/civiacomplete_bryant.php#beltAlfine)

the power of google and a half-remembered halfaclue :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 18 January, 2010, 10:28:20 pm
Quote from: alexb on 18 January, 2010, 10:12:08 pm
I was talking to a friend at work about my Ridgeback Nemesis recently. I was really surprised to see that Ridgeback have dropped it from their current line-up. You have pretty much no choice if you want an off the peg hub-geared/disc braked bike. I think there's only the Cannondale (expensive) and Charge left.
I did look all the rollerbraked bikes, but all of the poor reviews of the brakes put me off.

There is the giant escape R sub 0 also - I think a couple of others.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 19 January, 2010, 08:46:16 am
At the risk of diverting this thread...
(Sorry everyone)
I liked the roller brakes on the Nemesis; I am GOING to like the ones on this Trek Soho, just they haven't bedded in yet.  They're already (after only 20 miles) getting firmer and more reassuring.  [Fnarr?] That might be why they've had bad reviews - the reviewers get bikes straight out of the box.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris N on 19 January, 2010, 08:48:59 am
Got potholed today.  Managed to lift the front wheel over, but the rear clobbered a sharp edge and dented and buckled the rim.  Tube didn't puncture, so I carried on for a bit, but the dent was big enough to let the tube squeeze out, and eventually it popped (very loudly, outside an old folk's home :-[).  Booted the tyre to stop it happening again, and rode the rest of the way in (5 miles or so) on a very under-inflated rear.

Need to get the hammers out later and try to whack the dent out so I can get home tonight.  Good job I've got a spare rim in the shed already. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 19 January, 2010, 11:03:09 am
Quote from: chris n on 19 January, 2010, 08:48:59 am
Got potholed today.  Managed to lift the front wheel over, but the rear clobbered a sharp edge and ..
ooh ow ouch.
Check that pothole is reported at fill that hole
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 19 January, 2010, 11:07:29 am
First day on new bike.  I just finished building it late last night, this was the test run
Stopped to straighten stem/handlebar/wheel alignment and to rotate the drops to correct angle
Took it easy down big hill
Cheeky young scamp on MTB thought he could overtake me as I was taking it easy.  It seems that the new bike will do 40kph uphill quite happily  ::-)
Of course the gear cable stretched during the ride and will now need to be adjusted at lunchtime.  At the moment it won't do gear number 8 ( the fastest, biggest gear )
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 19 January, 2010, 11:13:18 am
Snow almost all gone... Just a few patches of melting snow/ice on the north facing slopes of Ivy Cottage Lane in the Mayfield Valley. Heavy fog this morning so, of course,  muggins goes and almost falls off when hitting one such patch  >:(
Back on the slicks this week so commute is a few minutes faster again.  :)
Except, I go and break my chain (new one installed on Saturday last) on the way up Hady Hill (12%) 1/2 mile from work....  >:( >:( >:(
Almost got wiped by a National Express Bus as well - complaint lodged.  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 January, 2010, 11:15:32 am
Crikey, you've had a journey!  Glad to see you've begun racking up those miles again though :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 19 January, 2010, 11:56:04 am
Quote from: clarion on 19 January, 2010, 11:15:32 am
Crikey, you've had a journey!  Glad to see you've begun racking up those miles again though :thumbsup:
Indeed - Glad to see your troubles with weather and traffic have also not dampened you enthusiasm for the cycle! I'll try to wave as I struggle to catch up sometime in the next few weeks... ?  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: FyPuNK on 19 January, 2010, 12:31:03 pm
Boring, boring  and more boring, in fact I was bored stiff this morning. Without doubt the most boring trip in so far this year.  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: αdαmsκι on 19 January, 2010, 06:32:22 pm
On the commute today .... there were other cyclists! And other people using the changing rooms, too. It seems like people are coming out of hibernation.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 19 January, 2010, 08:09:31 pm
Quote from: αdαmsκι on 19 January, 2010, 06:32:22 pm
On the commute today .... there were other cyclists! And other people using the changing rooms, too. It seems like people are coming out of hibernation.

Bugger.  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 January, 2010, 08:53:33 pm
There were back to normal type numbers of cyclists on my commute today! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 19 January, 2010, 09:18:57 pm
There is still snow on the ground from last week !!
It was a lovely ride in and then home again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 19 January, 2010, 09:53:13 pm
lots more cyclists today. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: geoff on 19 January, 2010, 11:41:51 pm
Finding it necessary to go much too fast for the road conditions, owing to being back on the road bike and perpetually late because our kids are no longer off school with the sno.

Maybe the snow tomorrow will fix that?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 20 January, 2010, 07:08:49 am
I will be riding the MTB as it is already snowing.  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 20 January, 2010, 08:54:44 am
Much better commute this morning — except for the traffic.  I think this is down to one of the Thames tunnels being shut.  I have two main routes to work, must try the other one this evening and see what the traffic is like.

A special note to all the ladies commuting in skirts and knee-high boots: Thank you.  :-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 20 January, 2010, 09:16:49 am
No ladies in kinky boots here.
Just a lot of rain
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 January, 2010, 09:27:00 am
Quote from: Andrij on 20 January, 2010, 08:54:44 am
A special note to all the ladies commuting in skirts and knee-high boots: Thank you.  :-*


Are there any?  Can't say as I've noticed.  O:-)   

 ;)

 :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 20 January, 2010, 11:32:04 am
Changed my mind and took the Etape.  Grateful for the extra mudguard protection and more lighting as it was quite wet and dark out there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 20 January, 2010, 11:46:17 am
Decent commute, but where have all these people come from!

The roads were completely choked with cyclists :thumbsup: and motorists >:(

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 January, 2010, 12:14:12 pm
I nearly got doored this morning by a moving vehicle.  I was overtaking on the bridge past Mitcham Junction station, and a rear seat passenger flung the door open & jumped out before the car had rolled to a halt.  Clearly wanting to catch a train, but I realised I've been excluding rolling vehicles from my 'dooring hazard' alert.  I re-calibrated, shouted, 'That's ridiculous!', and rode on. 

I think, if I'd been on a motorbike, there would have been two injured people, a fair bit of bent metal, and traffic delays.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 20 January, 2010, 03:11:47 pm
I just seemed to see a lot of police officers around today.  I saw half a dozen police vans, and at one point on Cavendish Road, eight officers within a couple of hundred feet.  The odd thing was, they didn't seem to be interrelated in any fashion.  There were a couple of pairs on feet, one walking with a non-uniformed person, two in full Met police on bicycle kit (ie dayglo etc), on their bikes, and one on a bike, just wearing "normal" police officer clothes, plus a helmet.

(Actually some of them could have been PCSOs, I didn't check that closely).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 20 January, 2010, 07:20:44 pm
Coming home I removed a very large dead dear from my path.  It was just dead on the road.  No sign of impact, no blood, just dead.  I was half expecting it to kick when I grabbed the front legs to heave it onto the verge half and half at a time.

After that I got into some nice little interval sessions on the flatter sections and that lightened my mood.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 21 January, 2010, 12:37:23 pm
Cycled past the traffic queues caused by this: BBC News - 'Suspicious' package declared safe in Aberdeen (http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/north_east/8471824.stm)

There's probably someone in an office in Aberdeen wondering where his lunch is.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RichL on 21 January, 2010, 03:41:50 pm
One of my co-mmuters described my stumpjumper as "old-school".

It's 2002 I'll have you know. Young man.  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 21 January, 2010, 03:45:35 pm
Quote from: Grub on 20 January, 2010, 07:20:44 pm
Coming home I removed a very large dead dear from my path.  It was just dead on the road.  No sign of impact, no blood, just dead.  I was half expecting it to kick when I grabbed the front legs to heave it onto the verge half and half at a time.

After that I got into some nice little interval sessions on the flatter sections and that lightened my mood.

You didn't strap it to the rack then?!?  ???

Or don't you have a rack on your speed machine?  See - if you did, you'd be able to take advantage of such bounty.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moloko on 21 January, 2010, 03:49:58 pm
Quote from: Grub on 20 January, 2010, 07:20:44 pm
Coming home I removed a very large dead   dear from my path.  It was just dead on the road.  No sign of impact, no blood, just dead. I was half expecting it to kick when I grabbed the front legs to heave it onto the verge half and half at a time.


So you still wasn't certain then?   ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 21 January, 2010, 04:01:43 pm
Commuted in at lunchtime this morning, which made a very pleasant change from rush-hour bedlam. It was a slooooow ride though, my legs just had no power in them.

Had a little accident when I came to dismount at work. I was carrying a 3 Wood upright in one of my panniers and forgot all about it ::-) Que muggins here swinging his leg over the bike as normal, for it to meet the shaft of the club and direct the bike's top tube smartly against my crotch in the ensuing tripping :-X :'(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 21 January, 2010, 04:04:49 pm
Quote from: Jacomus on 21 January, 2010, 04:01:43 pm
Commuted in at lunchtime this morning, which made a very pleasant change from rush-hour bedlam. It was a slooooow ride though, my legs just had no power in them.

Had a little accident when I came to dismount at work. I was carrying a 3 Wood upright in one of my panniers and forgot all about it ::-) Que muggins here swinging his leg over the bike as normal, for it to meet the shaft of the club and direct the bike's top tube smartly against my crotch in the ensuing tripping :-X :'(

So you haven't got wood then :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 21 January, 2010, 04:11:52 pm
sounds like Jacomus has been shafted :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 January, 2010, 04:14:00 pm
So long as he hasn't now got a hole in one.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 21 January, 2010, 04:15:09 pm
Quote from: clarion on 21 January, 2010, 04:14:00 pm
So long as he hasn't now got a hole in one.

No I think he just bruised them
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 January, 2010, 04:16:41 pm
I think you have it to a tee, but he may have gone a little green.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 21 January, 2010, 04:22:19 pm
Is he still feeling rough?

We've got a fairway to go here
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 21 January, 2010, 04:31:27 pm
I'd say he's joined the club of those falling off in their daily commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 21 January, 2010, 04:54:24 pm
Shame, having wood but not getting a birdie.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 January, 2010, 05:51:22 pm
At least he struck the ball straight, but I'm not sure about the follow through.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 22 January, 2010, 06:58:07 pm
Quote from: Grub on 20 January, 2010, 07:20:44 pm
Coming home I removed a very large dead dear from my path.  It was just dead on the road.  No sign of impact, no blood, just dead.  I was half expecting it to kick when I grabbed the front legs to heave it onto the verge half and half at a time.

After that I got into some nice little interval sessions on the flatter sections and that lightened my mood.

Was it an old dear?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moloko on 22 January, 2010, 07:14:19 pm
 ;D

Doe, I'd missed that one.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 22 January, 2010, 07:20:46 pm
Do motons never give way to cyclists turning right at a mini-roundabout?  They just plough straight on.  Second day on the run for me.  I'm expecting it now.  Twunts.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moloko on 22 January, 2010, 07:25:57 pm
Quote from: rogerzilla on 22 January, 2010, 07:20:46 pm
Do motons never give way to cyclists turning right at a mini-roundabout?  They just plough straight on.  Second day on the run for me.  I'm expecting it now.  Twunts.

I've had that more than a few times. Luckily I have my fingers on the brakes as I anticipate it's just going to happen.

In the hot weather, on a few occasions, I've almost got my head into their open window to scream "C*NT!!!" into their earhole.   :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 22 January, 2010, 08:30:47 pm
Passing a group of POBs on the way home tonight; as I pass their group on the left (they were heading right) one of them exclaims "I thought it was a fucking CAR!"

Edelux FTW.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 22 January, 2010, 08:40:36 pm
Quote from: rogerzilla on 22 January, 2010, 07:20:46 pm
Do motons never give way to cyclists turning right at a mini-roundabout?  They just plough straight on.  Second day on the run for me.  I'm expecting it now.  Twunts.

I always expect it. I think a lot of it is down to them thinking that bike=very slow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 22 January, 2010, 08:44:22 pm
Riding home the other night, on an unlt section I came up behind a woman on a new Christiania trike with several kids on bikes ahead of her. As I approached, with a born with a silver spoon up her arse voice, she announced 'move over children, a car is coming. Oh, it's just a man with stupidly bright lights'.

The power of twin Ixons.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 23 January, 2010, 12:46:29 pm
Quote from: teethgrinder on 22 January, 2010, 08:40:36 pm
Quote from: rogerzilla on 22 January, 2010, 07:20:46 pm
Do motons never give way to cyclists turning right at a mini-roundabout?  They just plough straight on.  Second day on the run for me.  I'm expecting it now.  Twunts.

I always expect it. I think a lot of it is down to them thinking that bike=very slow.


I have to negotiage one of these mini RABs within 50m of starting my commute....one of the reasons I got an Airzound, they do it every time, presumably because they are on the 'main' road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 January, 2010, 10:37:52 am
On my commute today, I think I was abducted by aliens.  I was riding as normal, but ended up at work over five minutes later than normal.  And not my slowest average speed by quite a margin. ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 25 January, 2010, 10:58:39 am
I came in on the singlespeed. As this is the bike that's listed on the company's asset sheet as being worth £1000 (slightly creative invoicing from Mr Madgett) I felt it was about time.

I think I might have been mistaken about the worst hill. I actually moaned out loud.
Unless, of course, I am in for a world of pain tonight, too...

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 25 January, 2010, 01:13:26 pm
Quote from: teethgrinder on 22 January, 2010, 08:40:36 pm
Quote from: rogerzilla on 22 January, 2010, 07:20:46 pm
Do motons never give way to cyclists turning right at a mini-roundabout?  They just plough straight on.  Second day on the run for me.  I'm expecting it now.  Twunts.

I always expect it. I think a lot of it is down to them thinking that bike=very slow.

That's probably the main reason, but could it also be that they see you on the mini roundabout, which I presume doesn't have lanes - most don't - and because you no longer have your arm out (cos you're negotiating the rab) they assume (and I do mean assume, rather than think!) that you're going straight on, despite road positioning (which they may not notice anyway).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 25 January, 2010, 01:27:01 pm
Usual S E London traffic this morning with the addition of a bevy of police motorcyclists on the Old Kent Road.   I was waiting behind one of them at some traffic lights but when they changed to green he didn't move forward and seemed to be worried that he wouldn't fit through the sizeable gap between the right-turning car to his right and the roadworks to his left.

I mumbled, totally under my breath, that he could go, and that he wasn't really all that fat, despite the doughnuts. (I feel I am qualified to comment on doughnuts, as I eat several of them each week.)

When he did pull away, another police motorcyclist drew up alongside me and had a go at me for being irate.  Irate?  I had been mildly amused, and now this patronising git with a self-satisfied moustache has a go at me for being irate.  He claimed he had heard what I had said and refused to explain why he thought I was irate.

Of course, by this stage I was irate.   >:( >:( >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 25 January, 2010, 01:52:32 pm
Quote from: clarion on 25 January, 2010, 10:37:52 am
On my commute today, I think I was abducted by aliens.  I was riding as normal, but ended up at work over five minutes later than normal.  And not my slowest average speed by quite a margin. ???

There is a noticeable North-Easterly wind at the moment, it's not strong, but when your commute is pretty much continuously against it, it slows things down a bit.

On the plus side, if it's like Saturday (when I cycled to/from St Pancras1), the commute back home this evening should be good. :thumbsup:

Footnote [1]: Otherwise known as St Pancreas.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 January, 2010, 03:44:29 pm
It's either that or the tons of scrap metal that's been dumped on my commute - lines & lines of it, impeding the progress of traffic. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 25 January, 2010, 03:58:01 pm
While stopped at a set of lights at 7.30 am today, I remarked to the other cyclist there that today appeared to be "Drive Like a Nutter" day, and we'd missed the memo.  He agreed that the A6's motorists were more agressive than normal - he'd been beeped 3 times.

Combination of Monday and slightly colder than usual?  Or the traffic had been held up behind a tractor, and everyone put their foot down once past?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 25 January, 2010, 04:12:58 pm
I dunno, but I had 2 near misses this morning - both times I avoided a collision because I hit my brakes. 1 classic left hook, one turning right across my path.

I don't normally get any of these, so I think it must be National Drive Like a Myopic Chimpanzee day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 25 January, 2010, 07:29:12 pm
Invigorating ride home over the peaks this evening - freezing rain and sleet.
When I got home, bits if sheet ice fell off various bits of the bike (spacegrip, forks, headset, computer, helmet cover...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wowbagger on 25 January, 2010, 07:32:55 pm
Taking the third exit of the roundabout a few hunderd yards before home, I was obliged to give my lungs and larynx a bit of exercise as a dozy person in a Micra-style car decided it would be a good idea to pull out in front of me.

The second 100-decibel "Wait there!" did the trick and I was able to proceed unmolested.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 25 January, 2010, 11:34:25 pm
On the way home I got a puncture in the delightful village of Coate.  I used my Spoonerskills to spot the nice cosy wind shielding bus shelter so changed the tube in comfort.  As I was only 10 miles from home I resisted the urge to lay down for a nap in practice for up and coming events  ;D
A kind neighbour even popped over the road to ensure I was okay  ;D
Either that or he was curious why his bus shelter looked brighter than the sun ( Lumicycle LED4 system )
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 25 January, 2010, 11:44:09 pm
Went a longer way home (12-13 miles) to have some extra calories burned, as the smallest haggis I could find was 1lb (1225 kcals).  Along with 1lb of mashed potatoes and 150g of neeps, and the butter etc, it was 1908kcals.

Fortunately that means I'm only 366 kcals over budget because I cycled 20 miles today.   O:-)  Though I'm now having a little fruit which will push me to over 400 kcals over.

Still, I do realise why I'm not fat.  I have to try *really* hard to consume the calories I burn off.  Like eating 3 servings of haggs and 3 servings of mashed potato.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 26 January, 2010, 09:30:49 am
Spoonerskills  ;D ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 26 January, 2010, 07:22:59 pm
What was going on today??

Normally I see 3-4 cyclists going the other way on my way to work and 1 occasionally 2 on the way home.

This evening I saw 10 riders. A gang of 4 going the other way and a group of 4 and a group of 2 who blazed past me.

 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 26 January, 2010, 08:05:46 pm
A few hundred yards into my morning commute I'm wondering why my hands are feeling a bit slippery on the bars.  That's when I noticed that I was wearing only my glove inners.
"Ah bugger it" thinks I, "I'll manage"

Mistake!!!!!

Arrrrgggggggg!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Salvatore on 26 January, 2010, 08:19:17 pm
Quote from: LindaG on 26 January, 2010, 09:30:49 am
Spoonerskills  ;D ;D

?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 27 January, 2010, 12:30:26 am
Quote from: Salvatore on 26 January, 2010, 08:19:17 pm
Quote from: LindaG on 26 January, 2010, 09:30:49 am
Spoonerskills  ;D ;D

?

That's from this:-

Quote from: Grub on 25 January, 2010, 11:34:25 pm
I used my Spoonerskills to spot the nice cosy wind shielding bus shelter

Haven't you heard of the mythical Mr Spooner? The legends tell that he roams the land endlessly on a silent wheeled chariot. There is a darker side to the tales; if you intend waiting for a bus in a rural location late at night, then in the manner of a child who checks under his bed for monsters, you should approach cautiously and inspect the interior of the shelter with great care lest his prone form is lurking in the shadows.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 27 January, 2010, 05:42:37 am
 ;D  ;D  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 27 January, 2010, 07:54:57 am
More accurately on the commute home last night....

Absolutely gorgeous sunset.  Lit up half the sky in just about every shade of red from scarlet to cherry.  So good I stopped to watch it for a couple of minutes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 January, 2010, 09:46:17 am
Last night's commute had a magical moment.  Coming down Upper Tooting Road is very frustrating, because there is always a queue of traffic doing stupid things, and idiots pulling out from the side roads without looking for cyclists.  But, just once, last night, there were four of us cyclists - me, a Bianchi, a Rockhopper and a Marin hybrid - swooping down the hill with no traffic at all on our shoulders, nothing ahead till we got near Broadway, and nobody appearing from side roads.  No random pedestrians, either, and the lights on all the junctions & crossings were green.  Big big smiles.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Salvatore on 27 January, 2010, 10:21:22 am
Quote from: MattH on 27 January, 2010, 12:30:26 am
Quote from: Salvatore on 26 January, 2010, 08:19:17 pm
Quote from: LindaG on 26 January, 2010, 09:30:49 am
Spoonerskills  ;D ;D

?

That's from this:-

Quote from: Grub on 25 January, 2010, 11:34:25 pm
I used my Spoonerskills to spot the nice cosy wind shielding bus shelter

Haven't you heard of the mythical Mr Spooner? The legends tell that he roams the land endlessly on a silent wheeled chariot. There is a darker side to the tales; if you intend waiting for a bus in a rural location late at night, then in the manner of a child who checks under his bed for monsters, you should approach cautiously and inspect the interior of the shelter with great care lest his prone form is lurking in the shadows.

Thank you. All clear now.

As you were.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 27 January, 2010, 10:26:06 am
Took the MTB and the canal tow path route today.
The hint of ice means this option is safer, especially with my winter tyres installed.
Got a puncture from a thorn 12 miles in of the 19 though.  :-\

I must say that riding the MTB is more challenging and uses different muscles and I reckon my bike handling skills are improving too.  I would recommend getting out on your MTB now and then if you can just for this purpose.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 27 January, 2010, 10:34:36 am
Was running later and on a different route today because I had to pick up my bike from the shop but the amount of muppetry witnessed from other cyclists was astounding: one guy going up the inside of a cement lorry that was indicating left  ::-). Some nice overtakes by lorries followed by one from a coach that left me literally millimetres.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 27 January, 2010, 10:38:36 am
Resolved to take it easy this morning on the way in.

But I couldn't find my woolly hat so went up to the garage a bit late
The cable tie holding on the back mudguard had disappeared so this had to be replaced
It was only -2C but it felt much colder.  Wore the fleece under the coat+ski mitts and I wasn't too hot

Pretty much stuck to my take it easy plan but got to work a little late
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 27 January, 2010, 10:41:53 am
If I'm to be brutally honest, it was yesterday's evening commute, but between the office and the hotel I wandered down to the beach for a game of footy with some colleagues on the shores of the Gulf of Oman. Not a bike in sight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 27 January, 2010, 11:25:35 am
Lots of people overtook me between Cherry Hinton and Newmarket Road.  I kept seeing the same vehicles again sitting in queues.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 27 January, 2010, 11:28:18 am
Quote from: TheLurker on 27 January, 2010, 07:54:57 am
Absolutely gorgeous sunset.  Lit up half the sky in just about every shade of red from scarlet to cherry.  So good I stopped to watch it for a couple of minutes.

There have been some loverly red skies down here in the West country this week as well
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 27 January, 2010, 11:32:00 am
Quote from: Salvatore on 27 January, 2010, 10:21:22 am
Quote from: MattH on 27 January, 2010, 12:30:26 am
Quote from: Salvatore on 26 January, 2010, 08:19:17 pm
Quote from: LindaG on 26 January, 2010, 09:30:49 am
Spoonerskills  ;D ;D

?

That's from this:-

Quote from: Grub on 25 January, 2010, 11:34:25 pm
I used my Spoonerskills to spot the nice cosy wind shielding bus shelter

Haven't you heard of the mythical Mr Spooner? The legends tell that he roams the land endlessly on a silent wheeled chariot. There is a darker side to the tales; if you intend waiting for a bus in a rural location late at night, then in the manner of a child who checks under his bed for monsters, you should approach cautiously and inspect the interior of the shelter with great care lest his prone form is lurking in the shadows.

Thank you. All clear now.

As you were.

That's OK. Personally I don't believe a word of it, I think it's just something mothers tell their kids to scare them into using cars rather than buses :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 27 January, 2010, 02:18:58 pm
Last night, got overtaken.  No surprise in that.  What did amaze me was the speed of the guy.  I've never seen anything like it in my life.
Didn't have time to note what the bike was - some sort of road machine.
Appeared to be spinning at least 100" at a fair old rate.  I couldn't believe how quickly he pull away into the distance and out of view.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 27 January, 2010, 02:46:13 pm
This guy (http://www.cyclingweekly.co.uk/news/latest/345741/bowdler-makes-his-mark-on-the-bbar.html) sits about four desks away from me at work. He is amazingly fast when he passes me on our commutes - and then he's just on a pretty basic Ribble road bike, with about 20 miles to go to get home (so not just out for a five minute blast). Awesome isn't the word.

Having said that, he did refuse to do LEL with me because that's just for nutters  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 January, 2010, 02:50:25 pm
Awesome doesn't quite cover it.

77 tooth?  Eh?

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 27 January, 2010, 03:34:29 pm
Well I've been riding with 82 teeth since Christmas.
They are split over two chainrings though!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 27 January, 2010, 08:25:51 pm
or rather...
not on the commute today

It was below zero this morning.  As the leaking manhole (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=2177.msg511700#msg511700) has still to be fixed, I decided that the car was the better part of valour.  Good thing I did as there was a sheet of ice all across the road.  Later I discovered that the decision was even better than that, as the road had been closed due to an accident on said ice and would probably have still been closed by the time I got there on the bike.  (Having the shower at the other end of the commute makes the difference.  I'm not really that much faster on the bike than in the car)

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pippa on 28 January, 2010, 10:33:18 pm
I spotted a fellow cyclist wearing skiing googles on my way home this evening  ;D

Is this de rigueur cycle commuting attire  ???

2nd week of commuting for me and it felt like the bike did all the work rather than me for the first time  :thumbsup:

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 28 January, 2010, 10:34:45 pm
That rain was icy cold, I would have liked some skiing goggles!  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 28 January, 2010, 10:38:03 pm
I had a headwind all the way to work.
At work I met an Inspector that has recently bought an electric bike by Giant.  He went all the way to Yorkshire to pick it up as the shop had a deal on.
On the way home I saw what I thought was the same man in the distance.  I put a bit of effort in and caught him up and we then had a chat for the next 3 miles until he arrived at his house.
My normal speed is 15+mph and the assisted bit of his bike cuts out at 15 mph.
It was quite noticeable how quick he was off the mark though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 29 January, 2010, 09:08:13 am
It was cold, wet and windy.  So I came the longer way for the first time this year.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris N on 29 January, 2010, 09:10:00 am
Puncture.  Second in five days of commuting and both on the rear wheel (of different bikes).  Nice to be out though. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 29 January, 2010, 10:18:12 am
Quote from: Nuncio on 29 January, 2010, 09:08:13 am
It was cold, wet and windy. 

Aye.  This too.

And my light was playing up.  And the bracket needs re-fettling.  And there are still a heeyuge number of half-awake feckwits charging around in what amount to mobile phone booths.  And I experienced another bus driver who just expected me to disappear during his drift to the kerb.

Great ride :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 29 January, 2010, 10:47:55 am
Terrible ride - I was just late enough to think that I could be on time if I caned it. I walked in the door to the office 3mins late and a total wreck.

Didn't really notice any bad driving as I was too busy attempting to keep my lungs inside my chest. The Beast is not a good machine for riding really fast... 18kg unladen, probably 23-25kg laden  :(

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 29 January, 2010, 11:35:56 pm
I almost just got taken out by a shopping trolley which someone had left on a not terribly well lit residential road in the last mile of my commute.

Since they're just made out of wire, and not noted for having masses of high vis retroreflectors fitted, they really aren't that obvious until you're almost on top of one (and this is with an Exposure Race Maxx front light, which is fairly bright).

I swore, stopped, and pushed it onto the pavement.  Further along I noticed a couple more by a house, so presumably the local scrotes have been doing something with them (if only nicking them and leaving them doted around).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 30 January, 2010, 10:42:12 am
I almost got taken out twice - once by a huge juggernaut which for some reason was coming down a lane barely wide enough for it to fit.  I had to get up on the grass verge.

Five minutes later another idiot cyclist came out of a path to my right and, without looking, turned towards me, using the wrong side of the road.  I swerved, and we passed each other on the wrong side.  This happens a lot on that piece of (quiet) road - it links two sections of cycle path and although it's full-width and cars use it (there are a few houses and a chavvy road pub) your average POB continues to ride on whichever side they see fit  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 30 January, 2010, 12:18:53 pm
I had a helluva commute home last night.  I'd been at Wootten Bassett all day in case Charles or Camilla got into strife and the boys in the black pyjamas had to suit up to the rescue.  But they didn't.
I saw it start snowing whilst in WB.
We finished early so I was on the road home by 6pm.  It was initially cloudy but then cleared to a very clear and bright full moon.  The temp was dropping.  The first 14 miles was fine - I had a tail wind and I was going some.
Then I hit black ice.  It was wicked so I stopped and started to walk towards a more main road in the hope of finding it had been gritted. I rang Mrs G to warn her that I may need assistance.
The main road was no better so I kept walking and put in a call for rescue.
I was having trouble keeping the bike upright, even walking it.
Mrs G got the car sideways in two places on route to me but luckily as she was being careful and driving very slowly there was no connection with either verge  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 30 January, 2010, 10:44:47 pm
dramatic, grub!

Last night. A puncture, again. A hawthorn, again.  And a broken spoke.

Through *exactly* the same hole as last time?  How likely is that?

Getting a bit sick of this. Used to average 3000miles between punctures. Now I'm getting one a week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 01 February, 2010, 08:13:28 am
An interesting mixture of light snow, assault by gritting lorry - grit stings you know and a hard frost.  Still beats driving tho'.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: αdαmsκι on 01 February, 2010, 09:20:00 am
This morning was beautiful. The skies are blue and the sun was out. Unfortunately, I nearly got sideswiped when the driver of an Audi moved swiftly and suddenly into my lane. I dived for the space to my left, which was street parking for cars that was empty, and also let out an involuntary scream. On reflection, the move hadn't been as bad as I initially feared and at the next set of traffic lights I tried to apologies to the Audi driver, but he refused to wind down his window. I guess he thought I was going to give him a load more grief, which wasn't my intention. Ah well. I carried on and continued to enjoy the wintery sun, cold temperatures and blue skies. It really was lovely. Hopefully the temperatures don't drop too much tonight or else it'll be slip-sliding my way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 01 February, 2010, 09:40:48 am
Normally my commute is hassle free.

Today, in the space of perhaps 400 yards I had an Audi decide that I wasn't sufficiently close to the car in front (I approximate about 3/4 of a car length) so decided that he would overtake. I wouldn't have minded too much (oh alright then, I would), but as he pulled alongside me I spotted that his left indicator was on. I held my position and he backed off.

Then up the hill and approaching a line of near stationary traffic and the Mini behind overtook despite my signalling (outstretched arm and palm backwards) and moving to primary. He didn't complete his manoeuvre and so was left looking a little foolish half out of the lane.

And 20 yards later (still heading uphill) someone in a side turning on my left turning to his right decided that it was more important that he stick his nose out into the traffic  rather than let the right of way traffic (me) continue.

The rest of the run was fine though. A beautiful clear blue morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 February, 2010, 09:46:08 am
Yeah.  In a similar vein, I got cut up by a van on a mini-RAB at a very icy spot.  He then went on to yell abuse at me.  Shame he turned off, as he'd have been stuck in a looooong line of stationary traffic I passed if he'd been going straight on.

And I got pipped by a car that felt I wasn't riding fast enough.  Since that was faster than the car in front we were gaining on, I didn't feel that was an issue.  That driver got caught in a queue, so, having replied, 'Good morning!' to his tooting, I tooted back as I rode past and away.

The usual overabundance of incompetent drivers.  And ice.  They haven't a clue, have they?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 01 February, 2010, 10:20:17 am
What is it about Audi drivers?  On yesterday's Hell of The Ashdown a bunch of us were weaving our way in and out of the ice uphill on a single track lane when an Audi came down towards us, ignored the passing place where he could have pulled in to let us squeeze by, and forced us all to come to a slippery halt - after which we had to walk the next part of the climb because it was too slippy to get any traction from a standing start.

I think he knew he was being a p---k as he avoided all eye contact  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 01 February, 2010, 11:52:42 am
This morning  in Grove Green Rd, Leytonstone, arriving towards a red traffic light. Occupying the primary position in order to avoid the cycle lane which was icy and also running along a row of parked cars. ( here: Google Maps (http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=e12&sll=53.800651,-4.064941&sspn=19.563564,39.506836&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=London+E12,+United+Kingdom&ll=51.557443,-0.006217&spn=0.002505,0.004823&z=18&layer=c&cbll=51.558433,-0.005419&panoid=5InJudxW0daLO2tL6-F5wg&cbp=12,232.56,,0,7.7) )
Lady in white fiesta honks her horn once... I ignore her. When arriving at traffic light (still red) am still in primary position and she honks again, walking towards her for a little chat, she is really angry and tells me I should be riding on the side of the road.
Explaining my reasons for being there she shouts, 'you're just playing' then drives off.
The fact that am on a recumbent seems to make me less credible as a 'serious' road user like her.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 01 February, 2010, 11:57:17 am
My icy options include a trike and a hybrid all ready with studded tyres. But I didn't think is was that bad....

So I took the normal bike and ended up walking (skating) for a mile until I reached the dual carriageway. Doh!

Of course I was still in on time and ended up with three classes of children squeezed into my room at 8:45 because colleagues using "superior" methods of personal transport were all jammed up and late to work.  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 01 February, 2010, 09:41:48 pm
A buttock-clenching ride this morning on a dusting of snow which turned out to be thicker across The Marsh, a weird part of my commute with its own microclimate.  It's always 3 degrees colder there than it is in the village, and sometimes the mists are reminiscent of The Hound of the Baskervilles.

Tomorrow it's supposed to be 5 degrees and chucking it down.  I prefer that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 01 February, 2010, 10:10:40 pm
Quote from: rogerzilla on 01 February, 2010, 09:41:48 pm
Tomorrow it's supposed to be 5 degrees and chucking it down.  I prefer that.

I don't.  Give me cold, clear, sunny mornings any day, over dull, pissing down and dreary.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 02 February, 2010, 05:39:51 am
Ditto.  Light hair mist rain is sort of okay compared to bucketing down, but cold and clear and bright wins out over all.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 February, 2010, 09:09:47 am
Mild, wet & faster.  I'm happy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 02 February, 2010, 09:46:22 am
I was a little overdressed this morning and sweated buckets as I rode like the wind. Minimal motonic behaviour made for a pleasant ride, even if I was going eyeball out.

Noticed cycle-plod on the case of RLJers here, not that it would affect me but a nice little dose of schadenfreude in the morning goes down well.

(http://<iframe width="425" height="350" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" src="[url=http://maps.google.co.uk/?ie=UTF8&amp;ll=51.514168,-0.104493&amp;spn=0.001112,0.00284&amp;t=h&amp;z=19&amp;output=embed"></iframe><br]Google Maps[/url] /><small><a href="[url=http://maps.google.co.uk/?ie=UTF8&amp;ll=51.514168,-0.104493&amp;spn=0.001112,0.00284&amp;t=h&amp;z=19&amp;source=embed"]Google Maps[/url] style="color:#0000FF;text-align:left">View Larger Map</a></small>)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 02 February, 2010, 10:27:32 am
Quote from: Jacomus on 02 February, 2010, 09:46:22 am
I was a little overdressed this morning and sweated buckets as I rode likeinto the wind.
+1.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: keeks on 02 February, 2010, 11:53:38 am
Going along nicely glanced down and noticed I had forget to attach pump post bike clean. What are the chances? I chuckled to myself in the knowledge that nearly a year of commuting on my armoured Schwalbes and not one of those .

Oh dear don't tempt fate , honestly less than 5 mins later there I was cussing away like a confederate in an yankee ambush. After I had replaced the inner tube I managed to wave down a fellow commuter( the first one by) and pump it up.

So well done to the nice man on the Marin ( I think) and well done to the cycling community knowing that I could count on them to help out.:thumbsup:

Hey p**ture fairy................ up yours

 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 02 February, 2010, 11:57:45 am
Quote from: keeks on 02 February, 2010, 11:53:38 am
Hey p**ture fairy................ up yours

Ooooh, you do know what's going to happen to you on the way home tonight, don't you? ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: keeks on 02 February, 2010, 12:47:15 pm
Quote from: TimO on 02 February, 2010, 11:57:45 am
Quote from: keeks on 02 February, 2010, 11:53:38 am
Hey p**ture fairy................ up yours

Ooooh, you do know what's going to happen to you on the way home tonight, don't you? ;D

I'll let you know , anyway ying yang and all that surely there is a anti-p**ture fairy or sprite , I can count on ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 02 February, 2010, 12:59:19 pm
Couple of miles from home. Notice a "tick tick tick" coming from the front wheel. Stop to take a gander.
Nice egg of inner tube poking through a failed bit of front tyre side-wall, about to *POP*.

Why is it than the day you need something is the day you don't have it? I have been carrying a tyre boot around for 6 years now and never needed it.... Until today... *sigh* So, it was a case of deflate to minimum pressure and slow down for the rest of the ride in. Will fettle a tyre boot for the trip home this afternoon.

Must be a tyre manufacturing fault - its only done 3300km.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 02 February, 2010, 03:17:52 pm
What make tyre PDM?

I had something similar on a commute home last week.  I needed to get home in a hurry so took the shortest route home, a route I nearly always avoid because of a sharp descent right onto a mini-RBT, with my approach road blind to the cars coming from my right.  I'd been ignoring the slight ticking when braking, and about 10 metres from the RBT my front tyre went from 120psi to 0psi interfrastically (and noisily).  I'd been on the brakes for a while, and was going very slowly fortunately.  My tyre had a small tear by the wire, coincidentally (?) where the valve was.  I don't know if the warm rims had caused the puncture, or whether the brakes had caught the bare tube.  I had a boot, but didn't use it because I was in a hurry, and the tear was small enough that I could pump to a descent pressure without there being too much of a bulge.  The tyre was a Conti GP 4 seasons.

 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 02 February, 2010, 03:47:11 pm
Marathon Supreme.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 02 February, 2010, 05:06:23 pm
Funnily enough, something put a slit in my rear wheel on last Saturdays WARTY, so I had to stop and replace the tube and put a boot on the tyre, and that's also a Marathon Supreme.

I should probably replace the tyre, which has now done a further 100 miles or so, since it was rather a large slit, and the Park Tools Boot isn't really a permanent solution.  I do have three spare tyres sat in the kitchen, so it's not that I'm short of spares!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 02 February, 2010, 08:18:28 pm
Had a horrible head wind to work. Saw 6 deer in a field and then one more sat down next to the hedgeline.
Only managed 14.5 mph for the 24 miles to work.

Had a rubbish day doing rubbish mundane and difficult tasks.

Left on time and had a stonking tail wind home.  Managed 17 mph average for the 24 miles  :thumbsup:

Near the crematorium there is a pedestrian island with raised kerbs to protect it.
Highway Maintenance car derived van with the obligatory hi viz jacket driver could not wait for the nanosecond it takes me to exit the said narrow section so decided to push on through.  I maintained my position due to grates on the nearside verge so hi viz man had to go wider.  He obviously did not see the raised kerbs but obviously felt them and heard his front tyre go pop as it was emptied of all air.  I did not bother to stop and advise him of his stupidity.  He appeared to realise it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 02 February, 2010, 09:09:07 pm
I was passed too closely by a van on Monday morning, and muttered the usual curses.  As it drew clear I noticed the rear was covered in hi-viz chevrons with the legend "Keeping Wiltshire Safe (http://www.wiltshire.police.uk/)" above the rear doors  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 02 February, 2010, 09:25:27 pm
Quote from: Grub on 02 February, 2010, 08:18:28 pm
He obviously did not see the raised kerbs but obviously felt them and heard his front tyre go pop as it was emptied of all air

*snigger*

Glad that little tale ended as it did.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 02 February, 2010, 10:04:22 pm
Quote from: rogerzilla on 02 February, 2010, 09:09:07 pm
I was passed too closely by a van on Monday morning, and muttered the usual curses.  As it drew clear I noticed the rear was covered in hi-viz chevrons with the legend "Keeping Wiltshire Safe (http://www.wiltshire.police.uk/)" above the rear doors  ::-)

Did you report it?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 03 February, 2010, 06:52:51 am
Had we been forecast it to be this cold?
I've just turned around and come home- I'm not risking these lanes with that invisibly black shiny slippy stuff :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 03 February, 2010, 07:54:55 am
Still mild and drizzly in S Wales.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 03 February, 2010, 08:07:15 am
Quote from: fboab on 03 February, 2010, 06:52:51 am
Had we been forecast it to be this cold?
I've just turned around and come home- I'm not risking these lanes with that invisibly black shiny slippy stuff :(
Err, yes.  Roughly; anywhere south west of a  line running SE, NW through just north of Oxford / Buckingham. Mild(ish) and rainy. Anywhere t'other side cold and snowy/sleety/icy.  I'm on the "warm" side of the line today. Thankfully.


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: αdαmsκι on 03 February, 2010, 09:17:57 am
As I rode to work the sun was appearing on the horizon, giving the clouds a lovely reddish tint, which coupled with the fields and trees that were speckled with ice* made everything look beautiful. Even the vapour clouds from the nearby power station only added to the affect. It was a shame I couldn't spend the whole day cycling.


__________
* Thankfully the roads were ice free apart from the occasional frozen puddle.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 03 February, 2010, 12:46:20 pm
This morning was a very successful puddle and pot hole dodging exercise.  I even managed to get around the the metre wide pot hole hidden in a puddle.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 03 February, 2010, 06:22:01 pm
That was not as planned.

I watched the last train I could put the bike on this morning pull out of the station as I was on the platform :facepalm:

Cue 27 miles to Fenchurch street to get the train to Barking for a progress meeting on site.
A30 - A315 - A4 - Hammersmith Gyratory, then wrong exit, had planned A4 but ended up going past the Royal Albert Hall, Hyde Park corner, Parliament square, embankment, London Bridge 2h 10m.

Coffee, bacon roll and orange juice hit the spot and the cafe didn't bat an eyelid when I brought the bike in with me.  :thumbsup:

The meeting overran so I got to Waterloo on  the way home as the commuting restrictions came in at 16:45. Fortunately the guard on the 16:50 took pity on me and let me on anyway. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 03 February, 2010, 06:32:31 pm
Oh and Mr gray mondeo estate on the embankment I folded in your passenger mirror.

We were both going forward at the same speed as the vehicle in front and it was in reach.

So you pulled past and slowed (the traffic in front was stopping for the next set of lights) whilst opening your passenger window. I therefore explained as I folded the mirror out again that if it was in reach it was too close.

 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 03 February, 2010, 08:08:26 pm
Took a geared bike for the first time in quite a few weeks today - such an odd feeling, that freewheeling lark!

Twatboy: no, I will not "move the fuck out". Kindly overtake on the outside.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 03 February, 2010, 10:03:49 pm
Well that was . . . .crap.

The heaviest wet snow I've seen all winter. Ended up taking my glasses off in order to see *anything* (I'm very short-sighted).  Soaked to the skin, thank the gods of modern fabrics for my windproof montane velo. Snow jammed between wheel and mudguard giving the feeling of riding a really crap exercise bike with the resistance turned to max.

2hr 15min to get home. I think the low point was changing down as I approached an intersection and discovering I was already in bottom gear.  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: longers on 03 February, 2010, 10:11:14 pm
I got a sore face tonight in the sleety snow. I distinctly remember wondering whether to take a cap this morning and went without.

I also had to dodge what I thought was a road sign lying in the middle of the road but it turns out be roadpaint of a traffic light warning sign. They've helpfully painted this less than a hundred metres from the lights on a downhill stretch of road where two sets of lights are straight ahead and very visible for nearly half a kilometre.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 04 February, 2010, 08:36:55 am
Last night I felt as if I were riding the heaviest bike in the world, I just couldn't 'make progress' though my jorney was only 5mins longer than normal ??? :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 04 February, 2010, 09:43:52 am
No snow here in Devon but yesterday was very rainy

It was blissful to get to work this morning dry
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 04 February, 2010, 12:31:22 pm
... I got three punctures.  Well strictly speaking two, but when pumping up the second repair, I obviously hadn't reseated the bead on the rim quite right, and got an impressively large <bang> when the inner tube popped.

I wouldn't mind, since I normally carry two spares, but I had a puncture at the weekend on the WARTY, and hadn't had a chance to replace that one yet.  So I had to do two actual puncture repairs "in the field".  It's lucky I also always carry a repair kit as well as the spare inners.

With some luck the fairy will have used up all her wrath on me for a while. <fingers crossed>

(Just in case you were wondering, this wasn't the same bit of glass causing the two punctures.  One was in the rear wheel, and one was in the front.  Totally independent, and eight miles apart).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 04 February, 2010, 12:58:12 pm
WVM sort of tried to squeeze me off the road. I stood my ground and he had to back off and had his wing mirror taken off by another van. Nice crunchy sound.

Turning left from Lower Richmond Road onto Putney Bridge. There are two lanes but they narrow considerably. Two cars can just about turn at the same time, one car and one van no, two vans side by side not a chance.

Good luck getting two transit vans side by side through this gap (http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=putney+bridge&sll=53.800651,-4.064941&sspn=17.151708,39.506836&ie=UTF8&hq=Putney+Bridge&hnear=Putney+Bridge&ll=51.465966,-0.214244&spn=0,359.990355&t=h&z=17&layer=c&cbll=51.466056,-0.214336&panoid=6OPGwMrrvgZrZl86LL7Abw&cbp=12,90.83,,0,24.03).

(From the satellite view, note how the inside lane narrows nicely up to the cycle reservoir. Also note that the railings in that picture have been removed, there's no way in the world I'd have been going up the inside of a vehicle with them still there unless the traffic light was red and I knew I could get past before it changed.)

The van on his outside cut across him (it was slightly ahead of him as the lights changed) and because WVM was too busy wondering whether his intimidation had worked or not he hadn't noticed the van cutting across him slightly. Not sure where he was going either, the bridge is rammed full of traffic. All he wanted to do was prevent my progress.

Crunchtinkle.

I didn't stop as he'd only blame me. Luckily the traffic was bad enough that I was generally overtaking cars the rest of the journey in to London.

I'll admit it was a bit aggressive filtering on my part, and I feel slightly guilty for distracting him enough that I contributed to it, but then it's a twat in a white van who tried to squeeze me off the road.

Orange YACF jersey wearers of SW London beware, there may be an angry WVM out there looking for revenge but he's only got himself to blame.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 04 February, 2010, 01:03:21 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 04 February, 2010, 12:58:12 pm

Orange YACF jersey wearers of SW London beware, there may be an angry WVM out there looking for revenge but he's only got himself to blame.

Oh bugger !

That's me today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 04 February, 2010, 01:05:27 pm
Quote from: hatler on 04 February, 2010, 01:03:21 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 04 February, 2010, 12:58:12 pm

Orange YACF jersey wearers of SW London beware, there may be an angry WVM out there looking for revenge but he's only got himself to blame.

Oh bugger !

That's me today.

I'm safe, I'm only wearing my long sleeved ones at the moment, and they're red and black.  The orange one is strictly summer use only, so hopefully he'll have forgotten by the time the sun reappears!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 04 February, 2010, 01:19:18 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 04 February, 2010, 12:58:12 pm
WVM sort of tried to squeeze me off the road. I stood my ground and he had to back off and had his wing mirror taken off by another van. Nice crunchy sound

 :) I go that way on my commute. Quite nasty traffic and associated irritable drivers over the last couple of mornings, especially today. I note a sort of mob mentality among the cyclists at times. Interesting...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 04 February, 2010, 01:59:00 pm
It's my second commute of 2010. Quite dreadful really.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 04 February, 2010, 03:43:54 pm
...my first one on fixed tonight since my 'bent derailleur hanger is sheared.  Ooooh my butt is going to hurt.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 04 February, 2010, 04:08:01 pm
Quote from: TimO on 04 February, 2010, 12:31:22 pm

( One was in the rear wheel, and one was in the front.  Totally independent, and eight miles apart).

That's one hell of a long bike...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 04 February, 2010, 04:25:31 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 04 February, 2010, 04:08:01 pm
Quote from: TimO on 04 February, 2010, 12:31:22 pm
(One was in the rear wheel, and one was in the front.  Totally independent, and eight miles apart).

That's one hell of a long bike...

As pointed out recently (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=1241.msg531342#msg531342), I am rather tall. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 04 February, 2010, 11:25:51 pm
I had an effortless ride in - due to the tail wind.
On the way home a people carrier tried to take me out - silly fool of a driver.
Near home I saw two flashing tail lights in the distance so that gave me something to chase.
One was a friend from work out for her first training ride of the year.
A chap went passed us while we were talking - not even nodding or saying hello.
As we had finished chatting a short time later I set off for home and managed to catch him and as I blew him away I shouted a very loud hello  ;D ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 05 February, 2010, 12:20:50 am
Gods, that was a bit of a commute on the way home.  The loons seemed to be out in force this evening, did I miss a Memo or something?

One guy came within a gnats whisker of taking me out, and I think the only thing which saved me was that he didn't see me at all, even though he was almost driving directly into the light of my Exposure Race Maxx.  If he had seen me, and slowed down even slightly, we would have collided.  As it was, his total and blithe ignorance of anyone else on the road saved me, although it also caused the near miss in the first place. :-\

It was one of those heart pumping, adrenalin rushing near misses that I have every few months.  I can do without them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 05 February, 2010, 10:06:32 am
boy racer in metallic blue hatchback in Leytonstone this morning, obstructing cycle path while trying to overtake on the left other car stationary in middle of the road that was about to turn right. (he had no chance of passing that car, there wasn't enough space).
Little ting of the cyclist ahead of me, little 300 millisecond parp of air zound from me as we both squeezed through the tiny gap left at walking pace.
F*** Off was his answer to this, then revving his pride and joy like a lunatic and overtaking like a bullet.... a bit scary to watch him approach in the rear mirror.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 05 February, 2010, 12:04:37 pm
Last night I put myself in a ditch.
I was hauling myself up a narrow little lane on the singlespeed and a car came slowly carefully and considerately down the hill in the other direction. As soon as it passed I eased back out into the centre of the lane only to find the car was towing a trailer and a slightly panicky moving vehicle avoidance clipless moment ensued.

Fool.

Luckily the only witnesses just flew off, clucking & sniggering. At least that's what it sounded like to me.

Incidentally my commuting time is fantastic on the one gear. How does that work? How can I be 10% faster when there's no big gears to thrash on the flat bits?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 05 February, 2010, 01:55:19 pm
You gain more by going fast uphill than by going fast on the flat.  Single speed may be making you push harder on the climbs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 05 February, 2010, 02:12:07 pm
Getting back into the commuting groove - work lately has meant I've either been away from the office, or carting tons of kit.

Rode to and from work yesterday, plus a 10km spin at lunch. Dozy bint in a Beamer pulled alongside me, then I noticed her left indicator (see they do have them). This coupled with a left turn ahead alerted me that bad stuff might happen. I stopped, she stopped. I waited till she had completed her manouvere and then followed  her down the road to explain the error of her ways. However I bottled it at the last minute - too wound up and worried I'd escalate the situation unnecessarily. 47km overall.

Took the longer way in today. Earlier start but a cracking ride. Looking forward to riding home again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 05 February, 2010, 04:42:21 pm
Quote from: fboab on 05 February, 2010, 12:04:37 pm
Incidentally my commuting time is fantastic on the one gear. How does that work? How can I be 10% faster when there's no big gears to thrash on the flat bits?


When I ride my fixed in a group of gearies, I either ease off on the pedals or overtake them as they change gear. You lose a lot of momentum changing gear, even if you do a very good job of it.
Riding fast on the parts of the ride that are allready fast won't gain you as much time as riding a bit faster on the slower bits of the route. If you usualy climb a hill at 5mph and it takes you 2 minutes, you'd gain a minute by climbing at 10mph.
If you usualy descend that hill at 20mph then firstly, you won't be descending for as much time as you'd be climbing it, so your 1 minute 10mph climb is a 30 second 20mph descent. If you descend that hill at 40mph, which would take a lot of doing, you'd gain 45 seconds, so would still need to keep up a very high pace for some time.
A fixed wheel will climb even better than a singlespeed freewheel.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 05 February, 2010, 04:56:33 pm

NA58 TZM - Morrison Utility Services driver apparently on the phone (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ZaohQwoyeU).

I'll wait for youtube to index it before I send off an email.  That way I can suggest they search on their company name for the youtube footage.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 February, 2010, 05:02:03 pm
Nabbed!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 05 February, 2010, 05:28:27 pm
I got away sharp tonight and rode part of the way home WITH THE SUN ON MY BACK AND MY SHADOW ON THE ROAD IN FRONT.

It must be Spring!

Yippeee dooo dah dayyyyy.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 05 February, 2010, 06:03:36 pm
Quote from: fboab on 05 February, 2010, 12:04:37 pm
Incidentally my commuting time is fantastic on the one gear

My (flat) fixed wheel commute average speed is definitely faster than on gears. I think it is because 1) it is a relatively light bike and 2) pootling is not really possible, there is a certain minimum comfortable speed - as long as there is no serious headwind etc. My feeling is that it is more efficient.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 05 February, 2010, 06:10:36 pm
My Pompino is faster than my Galaxy.  But I reckon my Madone would be faster still, being about 7kg sans pedals.  Of course I tend not to commute on that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 05 February, 2010, 06:18:45 pm
I'm sure I could average the same speed on a geared bike of similar weight - but I think I ride more lazily on gears.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 05 February, 2010, 07:13:57 pm
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 05 February, 2010, 06:18:45 pm
I'm sure I could average the same speed on a geared bike of similar weight - but I think I ride more lazily on gears.

I think that you've hit the nail on the head there, with gears I'm generally lazier. This afternoon in Richmond Park I was on my geared bike and span up the hills on the granny ring whereas I'd grind my way up on single speed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 05 February, 2010, 07:15:42 pm
Started using Schwalbe's Matrathon plus on Wednesday, which is advertised as  'flatless'. Punctured tonight on third trip on some broken glass along regent's canal....
 ::-)

-- edit
Mounted police patrolling the canal is quite reassuring while fixing puncture.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 05 February, 2010, 09:16:28 pm
Quote from: Arno on 05 February, 2010, 07:15:42 pm
Started using Schwalbe's Matrathon plus on Wednesday, which is advertised as  'flatless'. Punctured tonight on third trip on some broken glass along regent's canal....
 ::-)

I put some on at the weekend to replace a worn-through Gatorskin. Bloody hell, they're slow, aren't they!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 05 February, 2010, 09:48:34 pm
Quote from: Gordy on 05 February, 2010, 09:16:28 pm
Quote from: Arno on 05 February, 2010, 07:15:42 pm
Started using Schwalbe's Matrathon plus on Wednesday, which is advertised as  'flatless'. Punctured tonight on third trip on some broken glass along regent's canal....
 ::-)

I put some on at the weekend to replace a worn-through Gatorskin. Bloody hell, they're slow, aren't they!
Yah, not in the same speed category as gatorskins, feeling like you forgot the handbrake on? On the plus side they're a good way to train the legs until spring.
Did also try Conti sport contact that come with a one year no-puncture guarantee, they fared no better than Schwalbe on the harsh paths of London.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 05 February, 2010, 10:26:40 pm
Quote from: Arno on 05 February, 2010, 09:48:34 pm
...Did also try Conti sport contact that come with a one year no-puncture guarantee, they fared no better than Schwalbe on the harsh paths of London. ...

To be fair to the Sport Contacts, a pair came with all the other bits for the Kaffenback, and I swapped out the rear one in annoyance after 2500 miles and three fairy visitations.   I've just decided to bin the front one after 6000 miles and one fairy visitation.  It doesn't actually look all that bad, but since I need to change the rear Marathon Supreme anyway (big slit), I thought I'd swap both tyres over.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 05 February, 2010, 11:16:43 pm
Quote from: TimO on 05 February, 2010, 10:26:40 pm
Quote from: Arno on 05 February, 2010, 09:48:34 pm
...Did also try Conti sport contact that come with a one year no-puncture guarantee, they fared no better than Schwalbe on the harsh paths of London. ...

To be fair to the Sport Contacts, a pair came with all the other bits for the Kaffenback, and I swapped out the rear one in annoyance after 2500 miles and three fairy visitations.   I've just decided to bin the front one after 6000 miles and one fairy visitation.  It doesn't actually look all that bad, but since I need to change the rear Marathon Supreme anyway (big slit), I thought I'd swap both tyres over.
Yes,  my previous comments about  Sport contact and Marathon + were maybe a bit harsh as  I think they're quite sturdy in general compared to many others, and rolling (unintentionnally) on broken glass is bound to attract trouble.
2  commutes is too early to form a reliable opinion.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 05 February, 2010, 11:33:35 pm
The Sport Contacts are OK, but I don't think I could tolerate them long term for commuting, they simply aren't as bomb proof as something like a Marathon Supreme.  They are a bit easier rolling resistance wise, so I guess it's horses for courses.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 06 February, 2010, 12:04:36 am
Quote from: Gordy on 05 February, 2010, 09:16:28 pm
Quote from: Arno on 05 February, 2010, 07:15:42 pm
Started using Schwalbe's Matrathon plus on Wednesday, which is advertised as  'flatless'. Punctured tonight on third trip on some broken glass along regent's canal....
 ::-)

I put some on at the weekend to replace a worn-through Gatorskin. Bloody hell, they're slow, aren't they!

My tyre of choice for all except my touring bike are Continental GP4S.  The tyre that the Gatorskin should have been.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 06 February, 2010, 11:45:52 am
Quote from: Arno on 05 February, 2010, 11:16:43 pm
Quote from: TimO on 05 February, 2010, 10:26:40 pm
Quote from: Arno on 05 February, 2010, 09:48:34 pm
...Did also try Conti sport contact that come with a one year no-puncture guarantee, they fared no better than Schwalbe on the harsh paths of London. ...

To be fair to the Sport Contacts, a pair came with all the other bits for the Kaffenback, and I swapped out the rear one in annoyance after 2500 miles and three fairy visitations.   I've just decided to bin the front one after 6000 miles and one fairy visitation.  It doesn't actually look all that bad, but since I need to change the rear Marathon Supreme anyway (big slit), I thought I'd swap both tyres over.
Yes,  my previous comments about  Sport contact and Marathon + were maybe a bit harsh as  I think they're quite sturdy in general compared to many others, and rolling (unintentionnally) on broken glass is bound to attract trouble.
2  commutes is too early to form a reliable opinion.


Standard Marathons have served me well in London - two punctures in the last three years of fairly extensive commuting on road and paths. First one was a jagged half Becks bottle submerged in a puddle (and o, who can resist a big splashy puddle, sploshy temptress of muddy joy), the second one was a thin piece of metal wire through the sidewall. Yes, I evidently cycle through some kind of post-apocalyptic landscape. Welcome to south-east London.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 07 February, 2010, 11:22:32 am
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 05 February, 2010, 06:18:45 pm
but I think I ride more lazily on gears.
I think this is the answer.

Quote from: teethgrinder on 05 February, 2010, 04:42:21 pm
A fixed wheel will climb even better than a singlespeed freewheel.
When all risk of ice is gone I'll flip the wheel and we'll see if TG is right with my legs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 07 February, 2010, 12:16:36 pm
Quote from: fboab on 07 February, 2010, 11:22:32 am
Quote from: teethgrinder on 05 February, 2010, 04:42:21 pm
A fixed wheel will climb even better than a singlespeed freewheel.
When all risk of ice is gone I'll flip the wheel and we'll see if TG is right with my legs.

Will you use the same sized gear fixed as your singlespeed?
If you use a low gear (less than 65") and freewheel on descents, it's probably worth upping the gear by about 5".
If you use something like a 65-75" gear on the singlespeed, I'd keep it about the same for fixed.
65" fixed is a good starting point, but can be unnerving on descents at first, until you get used to spinning the legs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 08 February, 2010, 08:13:56 am
Ah. So that's what the big ring is for.  Wheeeee! ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 08 February, 2010, 10:18:57 am
Quote from: Wendy on 05 February, 2010, 04:56:33 pm

NA58 TZM - Morrison Utility Services driver apparently on the phone (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ZaohQwoyeU).

I'll wait for youtube to index it before I send off an email.  That way I can suggest they search on their company name for the youtube footage.

Happy happies. Another successful campaign action. Response from a Morrison PR Officer that the driver will be dealt with by HR, and the video used to reinforce training about phone usage in company vehicles.

Well done Morrison Utility Services, thank you!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 08 February, 2010, 12:17:38 pm
Well, yesterday.

Mother (I assume) in a people carrier, at least three young kids strapped in, attempting to negotiate a right turn on what is effectively a staggered crossroad on a busy main road into Beckenham (by Birkbeck station), with poor sight lines owing the tram/train bridge (which the road has to dip under). Gradually edging out into traffic without once looking to her left or across the junction to where I was (commonsense advised me to just leave her to it, the probability of her noticing a cyclist was nil). She wasn't indicating, but then she was far enough into the main roadway for her intent to be clear.

It probably goes without saying that she had a mobile wedged between shoulder and ear and was deep in conversation (this explains why she could only look left). She seemed to be rummaging under the dashboard for something at the same time, which I assume was why the phone wasn't in her hand.

Anyway, she was almost hit by two cars but despite some vigorous beeping I don't even think she noticed, so evidently engrossing was her phone call. Last seen heading toward Beckenham.

FFS, what conversation can be that important? I was waving my arms and mouthing PUT THE PHONE DOWN (which she also didn't notice) since I was convinced something was going to broadside her, and it really was just pure unadulterated luck she made it through unscathed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 08 February, 2010, 12:58:40 pm
Almost slapped in the face by an arabic man who was gesticulating wildly out of the window of his parked van, bopped a dog on it's head when I went past it dead slow, but it decided to do a 180° turn and smacked it's head into my bottom bracket, triggered the 30mph(1) warning sign on Cedars Road, got lightly snowed on, and came within a hair's breadth of being doored half a mile from work.

So, a fairly normal days commute. ;D

Footnote (1): I was probably only doing 22mph or so, and there were no other cars on the road, so I assume it triggered on the spokes on my wheel (the uppers ones of which would have been doing 44mph).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 08 February, 2010, 08:02:01 pm
Good bit of snow on the way out to Richmond way this evening - wasn't expecting that really. Glad I packed an extra layer. Pleasant enough  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: John Henry on 08 February, 2010, 08:06:51 pm
I got loudly beeped at by some red-faced bloke in a Seat. I will never know what for: I hadn't been anywhere near him and despite the fact that he was shouting loudly, he hadn't bothered to lower his car window.

Never mind. I'm still ahead on karma, as I got lots of thumbs up after pointing out some horrific potholes to a chap in a Mini yesterday.  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 09 February, 2010, 03:21:24 am
Since I left quite late today, even for me, around 2am, I was curious about how much traffic I'd see.

When I lived in Cheltenham, at 2am on a Monday night/Tuesday morning, you'd be lucky to see any moving traffic.  Probably less than half a dozen vehicles would be busy, and several of those would be police cars!

In London, over a bit less than an hour, I saw 89 motor vehicles, 5 cyclists, and 10 pedestrians.  That was actually more motor vehicles than I expected.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 09 February, 2010, 06:13:53 am
Well my commute was like a return to the beginning of my cycling revival.  I had to go to Marlborough for a change so went up up up and then down down down.  It was actually very enjoyable.  I compensated with a much shorter but steeper ride by having a very full Nelson Longflap including some heavy shoes and jeans.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 09 February, 2010, 06:32:58 am
Horrible last night - dark, wind-driven snow like needles in the eyes, and some git had spilled diesel all along the lanes for the last two miles.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 09 February, 2010, 07:53:30 am
Quote from: rogerzilla on 09 February, 2010, 06:32:58 am
Horrible last night - dark, wind-driven snow like needles in the eyes, and some git had spilled diesel all along the lanes for the last two miles.
Isn't astonishing the difference only a few (about 10 or 12) miles can make to weather conditions?  I had a straightforward, dry, ride home albeit with a strong bitterly cold breeze in my face.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 09 February, 2010, 08:32:40 am
I was bitterly cold on the way home yesterday, cold cold wind finding the slightest gap in my layers, and fine precipitation lacerating my front (it felt).
Arriving home with snot & tears (from the wind) all over my face, I looked in the mirror to see it's unlikely my single status will change any time soon...

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 09 February, 2010, 10:13:25 am
Quote from: fboab on 09 February, 2010, 08:32:40 am
I was bitterly cold on the way home yesterday, cold cold wind finding the slightest gap in my layers, and fine precipitation lacerating my front (it felt).
Arriving home with snot & tears (from the wind) all over my face, I looked in the mirror to see it's unlikely my single status will change any time soon...



real beauty lies within:the outside is merely the wrapping which should not be used to judge the contents. ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 09 February, 2010, 10:38:48 am
Commuting time has improved, even though I took the slightly longer (+1km) route I was still a couple of minutes quicker than a few weeks ago.  I wanted to include the Isle of Dogs loop but didn't leave early enough.

Today was the first time I did my commute before 7am and a lot of the drivers were right tossers, especially those using the bus lanes before the restrictions started.  I've learned my lesson: from now on I will ride right in the middle of the lane instead of sharing.  Traffic is light enough - they can use the other lane, the ba5tard5.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: John Henry on 09 February, 2010, 06:46:41 pm
Quote from: John Henry on 08 February, 2010, 08:06:51 pm
I got loudly beeped at by some red-faced bloke in a Seat. I will never know what for: I hadn't been anywhere near him and despite the fact that he was shouting loudly, he hadn't bothered to lower his car window.

And today I saw the same driver, in the same place, drive along for several yards with two wheels on the pavement rather than waiting for three seconds to allow the driver in front of him to turn right.

His abuse to me yesterday was obviously nothing personal - he's just a nut-job. Phew.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 09 February, 2010, 08:26:07 pm
I had the highs and lows.
I saw a Hustler type magazine, well many pages of said item displaying all sorts of pink fleshy shots but then a little further on a dead badger.
On the way home I met a big boss that was going home on his bike so we chewed the fat for a bit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moloko on 09 February, 2010, 08:28:06 pm
Quote from: Grub on 09 February, 2010, 08:26:07 pm
I had the highs and lows.
I saw a Hustler type magazine, well many pages of said item displaying all sorts of pink fleshy shots but then a little further on a dead badger.
On the way home I met a big boss that was going home on his bike so we chewed the fat for a bit.

Sounds like the badger was so engrossed in the magazine that he never noticed the car bearing down on him.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 09 February, 2010, 08:30:31 pm
They say too much of that causes one to go blind  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moloko on 09 February, 2010, 08:42:23 pm
It was the height of summer and I could smell a dead badger.   :sick: :sick: :sick:

Where was it? Only a further 100 metres or so down the road from where I first could smell it.    :sick: :sick: :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 09 February, 2010, 08:42:47 pm
Quote from: Grub on 09 February, 2010, 08:26:07 pm
I had the highs and lows.
I saw a Hustler type magazine, well many pages of said item displaying all sorts of pink fleshy shots but then a little further on a dead badger.
On the way home I met a big boss that was going home on his bike so we chewed the fat for a bit.
So...which was the high point?  And which of the three aroused you the most?  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moloko on 09 February, 2010, 08:44:18 pm
Quote from: Grub on 09 February, 2010, 08:26:07 pm
I had the highs and lows.
I saw a Hustler type magazine, well many pages of said item displaying all sorts of pink fleshy shots but then a little further on a dead badger.
On the way home I met a big boss that was going home on his bike so we chewed the fat for a bit.

You dirty fecker!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 09 February, 2010, 08:45:06 pm
Hustler caused a wry smile to youthful memories of furtiveness.
Badger caused a tinge of sadness.
Boss was enjoyable as I had not caught up with him for a while and it was good to chat.

None aroused me whatsoever  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 09 February, 2010, 10:12:06 pm
Quote from: fboab on 09 February, 2010, 08:32:40 am
I was bitterly cold on the way home yesterday, cold cold wind finding the slightest gap in my layers, and fine precipitation lacerating my front (it felt).
Arriving home with snot & tears (from the wind) all over my face, I looked in the mirror to see it's unlikely my single status will change any time soon...


Quote from: fboab
It's all about grip strength
;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 10 February, 2010, 07:49:17 am
Mixed bag this morning.   

On the not quite plus side I had to ride the main road, there was a bitterly cold head/side wind pretty much all the way and a 10 minute shower of sleet - out of an apparently clear sky. Weird.

On the quite definitely plus side it was obviously beginning to get light at 0630, there was beautiful crescent moon, the volume of bird song has definitely increased significantly over the last week and leaving aside the pillock in the artic in Lechlade all the motons gave me lots and lots of room.

The darktime is ending!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 10 February, 2010, 08:24:42 am
Apparently the smallest CrinklyCub had his second off :(  Turning right, black ice, down they went.  One exploded front light, no injuries, bike probably OK.  Littly cried for 30 seconds and has apparently been going round the nursery telling everybody "I was crying before.  We fell off daddy's bike."  It's slippy out there!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 10 February, 2010, 09:09:50 am
Nearly hit 3 times.

1) Narrow road due to roadworks a twat in a Volvo passed me so close that if I hadn't made a corrective swerve he would have hit me.

2) Mini-RAB, approaching to turn right, sitting to the RHS of the lane, big signal. As soon as I dropped my arm to the bars and entered the RAB a police car opposite assumed that I had given up on my turn and started forwards. An e-stop from her and a nervous swerve on the paint for me.

3) 2 lanes going round a dogs-leg at Oval, car decides that the racing line is appropriate and comes within centimetres of taking me out.


Then I nearly got hit by bird poo.

Then I got snowed/hailed on for 10minutes.


 :'(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 10 February, 2010, 01:10:48 pm
Rather bizzare weather today, almost the entire way in every five or ten minutes it swapped between snow and bright sunshine.

The snow wasn't settling, but was the small really hard stuff that can be quite painful, and at times made me slow down, since it made it difficult to see when it was going straight into my eyes. :-\

Aside from that and the damned North-Easterly wind that's been a drag for the last week or so, it was an uneventful commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 10 February, 2010, 03:03:42 pm
It is rather variable in London. Got lucky this morning - rode in early for a lecture at 0800, thereby missing some snow type stuff that I would have been out in had I rode in at my usual 30 mins later. Left work early - first daylight ride home from work this year, bright and sunny  :) Also my first ride outside of the rush hour in ages, lovely. Commute average is around the 15 mph mark these days, regardless of traffic. I noted a nice comfortable cruising speed of 18 mph today, possibly wind-assisted. I'd never noticed this before as my computer is on the top tube and I never like to look at it in rush hour conditions, but today I got to lower my head to it for a bit  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonBuoy on 10 February, 2010, 05:03:34 pm
Proper snow here in Leicestershire and it appears to be sticking.  The ride to the leisure centre in 30 minutes for badminton will be entertaining and the ride home after rehydrating could end up a tad unpleasant.  Not sure whether this still counts as part of the commute though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 10 February, 2010, 05:20:30 pm
The ride home tonight was strange, lovely and sunny but the wind was ludicrous.  I plumbed new depths with my gearing just to get nowhere.

I don't know if I'm imagining it, but now it's getting lighter the dangerous overtakes seem to be on the increase.

Just about to harvest the footage.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 10 February, 2010, 09:12:35 pm
Ride to work involved ice patrol.
Ride home was horribly cold and windy and involved more ice patrol.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 10 February, 2010, 09:15:55 pm
Tonight on the way home I had a lovely chat with a lady who said I was riding "one of our bikes". Turns out she works at Condor. She was on a Pista which she takes via Richmond park on her way home.
They're having a Rapha sample sale on Friday, for anyone who's interested. And the women's line launches in March. I may have to starve the family in favour of some new duds.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 11 February, 2010, 08:16:17 am
What?!!!
Your brother can't get you free samples!

These supermodels nowadays just have no clue do they?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: αdαmsκι on 11 February, 2010, 08:40:19 am
It was a lovely morning and I was really enjoying the cycle to work, until after 2.5 km a women started to pull out on my at a major roundabout. I hit the brakes, glared and then heard a pop as a spoke in my front wheel snapped. I guess the sudden breaking must have caused the snappage, although clearly it must have already been weak. I managed to limp back home. I'm going to drive into work in a bit, but there's no point setting off yet because the traffic will be hell. Hopefully I can get the wheel sorted by Sunday or else I'll have to DNS the Rutland & Beyond audax.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 11 February, 2010, 09:26:55 am
Quote from: alexb on 11 February, 2010, 08:16:17 am
What?!!!
Your brother can't get you free samples!

These supermodels nowadays just have no clue do they?

He's not doing it any more. They dumped him in favour of a different model. Or something. Such a fickle business.  ::-) ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 12 February, 2010, 07:24:41 pm
The journey home was, erm interesting.  Only three miles from home when there was a dreadful grindy graunch and I wasn't going anywhere, back wheel locked up solid.  How I managed to unclip I'll never know.

Closer inspection revealed that the rear mech hanger had sheared right off.

I'm delighted to report that every cyclist passing by stopped to see if I was OK, cyclists are such a lovely bunch.

Trouble is, I'm none the wiser as to how it happened, which is worrying.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 12 February, 2010, 07:33:29 pm
Quote from: Gandalf on 12 February, 2010, 07:24:41 pm
The journey home was, erm interesting.  Only three miles from home when there was a dreadful grindy graunch and I wasn't going anywhere, back wheel locked up solid.  How I managed to unclip I'll never know.

Closer inspection revealed that the rear mech hanger had sheared right off.

I'm delighted to report that every cyclist passing by stopped to see if I was OK, cyclists are such a lovely bunch.

Trouble is, I'm none the wiser as to how it happened, which is worrying.

Unlucky mate.  Same happened to me on Hell of the Ashdown, the chain ended up the other side of the wheel.

P2010177 on Flickr - Photo Sharing! (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ls-mike/4321323067/in/photostream/)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 12 February, 2010, 07:34:18 pm
Had an excellent commute yesterday, brilliant traffic.  I did get some amusement out of telling off this speeding driver:


      YouTube
            - R002 XOL speeding driver amusement
    (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lTxSqNqovZU)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 12 February, 2010, 11:21:26 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 12 February, 2010, 07:33:29 pm
Quote from: Gandalf on 12 February, 2010, 07:24:41 pm
The journey home was, erm interesting.  Only three miles from home when there was a dreadful grindy graunch and I wasn't going anywhere, back wheel locked up solid.  How I managed to unclip I'll never know.

Closer inspection revealed that the rear mech hanger had sheared right off.

I'm delighted to report that every cyclist passing by stopped to see if I was OK, cyclists are such a lovely bunch.

Trouble is, I'm none the wiser as to how it happened, which is worrying.

Unlucky mate.  Same happened to me on Hell of the Ashdown, the chain ended up the other side of the wheel.

P2010177 on Flickr - Photo Sharing! (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ls-mike/4321323067/in/photostream/)

(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3435/4002065636_b79501df2e_o.jpg)

Not mine, thankfully.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 13 February, 2010, 01:04:30 am
I'd almost say it was uneventful this evening, except I saw six police vehicles in the penultimate mile of my commute, on the approach to the centre of Croydon.  All of those were driving or parked up separately, and only one was on Blue and Twos.  This probably says something about Croydon Town Centre on a Friday night.  I try not to think too much about that, and just cycle a bit faster to get past that bit!

Now I need to get my head down, so I can wake up nice and early and go off on the Peli and Woollyless Peli and Woolly Pootle (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=29423.0).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 13 February, 2010, 02:56:11 am
Quote from: Wendy on 12 February, 2010, 07:34:18 pm
Had an excellent commute yesterday, brilliant traffic.  I did get some amusement out of telling off this speeding driver:


      YouTube
            - R002 XOL speeding driver amusement
    (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lTxSqNqovZU)

Private Hire Vehicle - shocking ::-)

A silly little game I play on commutes is... based on the overtake as it is in progress, guess whether it will have a private hire sticker in the rear window.

I'd say I get it right over 80% of the time. PHV-taxi drivers do make it way too easy though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 13 February, 2010, 07:31:30 am
Just a short one for me yesterday.  On the way in decided not to break my neck by going all the way to Divisional HQ only to come back to HQ for a meeting to then go back to DHQ to another meeting prior to coming home again.  The second meeting was cancelled so I just with to HQ on route, sat in my Assos kit and then went home afterwards and kept working from home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 13 February, 2010, 05:22:24 pm
Quote from: little miss mac on 10 February, 2010, 09:15:55 pm
I may have to starve the family in favour of some new duds

I see they are already listing some female specific items on their website - not available as yet, but it gives you an idea.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tourist Tony on 15 February, 2010, 03:50:25 am
On the way in tonight, I had something I haven't had for a while: the incoherent, window-down passenger rant. I was just going past the pub-now-Indian-restaurant when I felt a car coming up behind me. Oncoming traffic, narrow road, so I took primary.
They actually waited.
When they went past, however, the most I could decipher was a possible suggestion that I should be further left and riding over the potholes.

I am afraid my response was limited to a 'koff.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 15 February, 2010, 08:43:10 am
In on the Yukon this morning - first time I've ridden that bike in, literally, months. All jolly nice and all that but I think I'll be back on fixed in a day or two...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: αdαmsκι on 15 February, 2010, 01:30:12 pm
After >200 km yesterday, today I decided to take things easy on the way to work. It's a shame I didn't inform Aeolus of this fact as he gave a nasty headwind to battle against; so much for taking things easy. Oh and it was sleeting, too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 15 February, 2010, 02:47:27 pm
I was ill at the weekend

In Devon on sunday afternoon  it was glorious sunshine, very clear, great views.  Maybe a bit cold but the sun warmed it up a little.  This is my usual slot for a meander around the hills

I spent half the afternoon in bed and the other half feeling cold and tired

This morning I was a bit underpowered but I managed to ride to work in the rain...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MSeries on 15 February, 2010, 02:49:48 pm
Used a different back wheel. It is an old one with cones from a different hub. It felt OK, a bit different, but that could be put down to the Rubino at 100psi. I am not sure the bearings are right. Some play in them when I wobble the wheel, will try to remove some play ce soir.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 15 February, 2010, 05:53:50 pm
How embarrassing is it when after a fettling session you don't do up the skewer tightly enough?  :-[

So this morning, as I powered off to cross the main road near my house, the wheel locked completely against the chain stay.  Left me hopping around in the road trying to disengage from the pedals and then having to apologetically lift my bike across to the far pavement past the surprisingly patient motons.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 15 February, 2010, 09:27:06 pm
Lovely commute in. 
On the way home I was ghosted by a Barn Owl.  I wonder if they do that as they are hoping for a mouse or whatever to be frightened by my passing along the road thus identifying their location to the owl?
By ghosting I mean staying level with me in the same direction but just slighlty off into the field in the hedgerow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 16 February, 2010, 08:53:28 am
Bailed out and took the train -  just too tired to get on the bike in the pouring rain (then of course, spent my whole commute wishing I was on the bike ::-) )
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 16 February, 2010, 08:59:16 am
Nice bit of commuting yesterday, detouring around the Isle of Dogs both ways.  It's lovely cycling there: traffic volumes are low and there are very few traffic lights.  On the way home I went all the way around without putting a foot down.

On the way in I surprised a fellow cyclist.  I was stopped at a red light when a bloke on a nondescript MTB pulls up next to me.
Him: Wanna race?
Me: No thanks, I leave that for the weekends. (OK, I lied, but I no longer race/chase on my commutes).
Him: *laugh* OK.
The light turns green, I put myself into motion the way I usually do: like a sprinter.
Him: {expletives not fit for print}.
 ;D

And I learned something last night.  A 45 minute spin class is a great warm-up for the 45 minute commute home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 February, 2010, 09:08:05 pm
Moist this evening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 16 February, 2010, 09:27:06 pm
Lovely ride in.  The rain dodged me.
Coming home it paid me back.  I couldn't be bothered to stop and Goretex up but I paid for that as by the time I got home my hands were like blocks of ice.  Blood sugar had dropped to 4.7 too so that was not helpful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 17 February, 2010, 08:04:34 am
Oh dear. If it isn't ice it's mud.  Do you remember when the roads weren't like skating rinks? :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 February, 2010, 11:22:57 am
Moist again on the way home, but this time with a headwind.  Bracing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 17 February, 2010, 11:29:49 am
There's a nasty, narrowing bit of road on the way to the office. Yesterday I heard a car behind me, and he hung way back. It wasn't safe for him to overtake and he didn't, he waited then passed leaving loads of room.

 Distinctive vehicle. Pink and very long.

 I emailed the company last night to say thanks and I wish all drivers were as good as theirs. Got a reply.:

Dear spindrift.
 
We wish to Thank you for taking the time to e mail us regarding the manner in which our limousine was being driven on Monday 15th February
 
We pride ourselves on being a professional company and all our drivers are trained to respect other road users and it is most pleasing to receive positive feedback
 
Your comments have been passed to our driver
 
With Kind Regards
 
Pretty in Pink Limousines.

 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 17 February, 2010, 11:44:20 am
Managed to get my average speed into the 16s for the first time in a while, albeit helped by clear junctions, not having to stop at level crossings and it being half-term.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ed_o_brain on 17 February, 2010, 12:03:41 pm
Quote from: DrMekon on 17 February, 2010, 11:44:20 am
Managed to get my average speed into the 16s for the first time in a while, albeit helped by clear junctions, not having to stop at level crossings and it being half-term.

Grande! I actually managed 17 mph moving average on Monday - but was also in part due to the absence of any ice! I didn't ride at all last week as each day I'd awoke to a good frost.


All that has changed now. Snow tyres arrived last week and over the weekend I recommissioned the mountain bike. I even cycled down *evil* hill even though I could see it was icy!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 17 February, 2010, 12:28:06 pm
Came close to splatting a "cyclist" today. Was using the car to take stuff to the recycling centre. Doing about 25, crossing a set of lights on a main road when a guy on a bike shot out from the road I was crossing (i.e. through the red light) and made a wide left turn in the middle of the lane in front of me.  I don't know for sure that I would have hit him had I not braked hard but I suspect I might have done. 

He had earphones in. I'm not sure if he was even aware I was there.

For a moment I felt a bit like a Daily Wailer  :sick:

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ed_o_brain on 17 February, 2010, 01:21:09 pm
Quote from: RobM on 17 February, 2010, 12:28:06 pm

For a moment I felt a bit like a Daily Wailer  :sick:


If you were a reader of aforementioned snoozespaper you would probably have hit him, stopped, then proceeded to rant on at him about all the ills of cycling.

 :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 18 February, 2010, 09:01:45 am
Fog freezing on my brake levers.
Nice. Not.
I really need to start believing the weather forecast. ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wowbagger on 18 February, 2010, 09:12:42 am
Quote from: fboab on 18 February, 2010, 09:01:45 am
Fog freezing on my brake levers.
Nice. Not.
I really need to start believing the weather forecast. ::-)

We have rime and reason too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 18 February, 2010, 09:35:22 am
No icy stuff here but there is thick fog and heavy rain so I don't feel left out

The fog was so bad I felt the need to turn on the superflash
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 18 February, 2010, 09:36:31 am
Lovely commute in yesterday in the rain.  I was well rugged up and comfortable.  Managed to stay in my zones all the way.
On the way home it was dry but cold.  I defrocked the Goretex but still managed to keep warm in my ACF roubaix top.  After 5 miles of the journey I hooked up with a chap named Will.  He had left Trowbridge on a training ride - he is going to compete in duathalons.  We had a chat for a couple of miles before our routes parted.  

That was a nice change.

I am certainly enjoying the lack of traffic due to half term too.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 18 February, 2010, 11:46:54 am
Pannier came loose as I was honking over a bridge. Went into the rear wheel and nearly bucked me off. Rear wheel was buckled and I was 12 miles from work. Google local gave me the number for the nearest bike shop, and he agreed to fix the wheel while I waited. When I arrived, he showed me where the spoke was bent, and that I could do with replacing my brake pads. I was meant to be at work, so he trued the rear wheel to get me back on the road (no charge), and I am dropping it off to get the spoke and pads replaced tomorrow.

Thumbs up for Cambridge Cycle Company in Shelford - Cambridge Cycle Company, Bicycles, Cambridge, Cycle, Cycles, Claud, Butler, Pushbike, Bikes, Bike, Mountain Bike, Classic Bikes, hire, Bicycle, Cambridge, Cycle, Claud, Butler, Pushbike, Bike, hire (http://www.cambridgecyclecompany.co.uk/)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: urban_biker on 18 February, 2010, 12:02:16 pm
Climbing Portsdown hill this morning on a busy A road. Two cars came flying down the hill towards me and as they passed I felt a pain in my ear. I'm pretty sure a stone was flung up as they passed at speed. Subsequently found, when I got to work, that I had blood all over my ear from a small cut. I can see why people wear protective glasses when cycling, wouldn't want to get hit in the eye like that.

Had a few punctures this week too. 3 so far this week and I'm getting a bit fed up with it. Ok - so I should probably be on tougher Winter tyres but I like the speed.

Roll on Spring.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 18 February, 2010, 01:21:16 pm
Quote from: urban_biker on 18 February, 2010, 12:02:16 pm
<snip>
Had a few punctures this week too. 3 so far this week and I'm getting a bit fed up with it.
Never mind; that'll be your quota for the decade. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 18 February, 2010, 01:40:30 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 18 February, 2010, 01:21:16 pm
Quote from: urban_biker on 18 February, 2010, 12:02:16 pm
<snip>
Had a few punctures this week too. 3 so far this week and I'm getting a bit fed up with it.
Never mind; that'll be your quota for the decade. :)
I've had more punctures this week than in the last decade.Two.Both on the trike.Each rear wheel.On consecutive days.While the trike was stationary in the garage. ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: urban_biker on 18 February, 2010, 04:29:01 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 18 February, 2010, 01:21:16 pm
Quote from: urban_biker on 18 February, 2010, 12:02:16 pm
<snip>
Had a few punctures this week too. 3 so far this week and I'm getting a bit fed up with it.
Never mind; that'll be your quota for the decade. :)

If only that were true  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 18 February, 2010, 06:23:45 pm
A tad dampish this evening in London  ::-)

What's going on with the weather forecasters this week?? None of them have predicted all this pissingdown.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 19 February, 2010, 09:25:56 am
Absolutely nothing happened on my commute today, and nothing ever seems to happen on my commute on any other day either. What am I doing wrong?


No, hang on. Wait a minute … I said "morning" to Dick (who runs the local bike shop) as he walked into work on the other side of the road, and he was carrying a letter. I couldn't see what the letter was, but he was obviously intent on posting it because it was already in his hand.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Fluffy on 19 February, 2010, 09:30:04 am
Came off my bike this morning on black ice, the only thing damaged was my pride as there were other cyclists around.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 19 February, 2010, 09:43:25 am
After being off the bike on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday this week I was missing cycling and even dreamed about cycling to work last night.

Got up this morning and left the house to driving sleet - that blew away the cobwebs! A most enjoyable ride in 60% of it without sleet :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 19 February, 2010, 09:49:28 am
No bike commute today.  Legs feeling tired and a bit sore, perhaps been overdoing things a bit this week.  :(

Instead I 'slept in', took the Tube and gave my legs a rest.  I would much rather be on the bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 19 February, 2010, 09:51:10 am
Black ice for 10 miles.

Puncture.

Bonked because I left 30min later than usual and then delayed by puncture.

Only good thing was I got to use my new Road Morph in anger, and it is a fantastic bit of kit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 19 February, 2010, 10:55:36 am
Where are you chaps? It's all calm and tranquility in Brighton.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 19 February, 2010, 11:08:18 am
Dad’s 28-mile cycle to work

   - Manchester Evening News (http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/s/1192982_dads_28mile_cycle_to_work)

Came across this yesterday. For those of you familiar with the route you know it's a good workout. It is only once a week though
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 February, 2010, 11:14:59 am
Fair ride.

But you wouldn't want to live near Middleton (not the one in Teesdale, obv), would you?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 19 February, 2010, 11:36:22 am
He claims to do that in 1.5hrs? F*ck me, that's shifting over those hills. No wonder he can only manage once a week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 19 February, 2010, 12:03:21 pm
Quote from: Riggers on 19 February, 2010, 10:55:36 am
Where are you chaps? It's all calm and tranquility in Brighton.
You're forgetting Dick again, and the mysterious letter.  Will we ever find out if he posted it, do you think?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hulver on 19 February, 2010, 12:54:31 pm
A bit of drizzle on the way in, but nothing horrible.

I discovered that I can do an emergency stop on the fixed.  :thumbsup:

I also had a bus pull out on me. Those two events might be related.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 19 February, 2010, 08:58:52 pm
Quote from: Riggers on 19 February, 2010, 10:55:36 am
Where are you chaps? It's all calm and tranquility in Brighton.

Calm and tranquility? I managed to keep pace with someone on the last hill home today, and I got to ride both to and from work - considerable excitement at this end of Brighton.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 19 February, 2010, 10:40:52 pm
And another blowout, on the way home.

Despite putting a patch on the inside of the tyre covering the slit, the tube blew out through it on the way home. fasdhf
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 19 February, 2010, 10:52:47 pm
Ice all the way in.  I had to leave my back roads for the main road.
Still managed to stay upright and in my correct zones.

Tough day at work.  Busy busy busy.  HRM played up for the first mile and then I remembered something MV had suggested a while ago - when fat burning training - give yourself one day a week for a blow out.  I chose tonight.  I really enjoyed my ride home.  Everything came together and I was flying.  Got the HR up to 91% of max and even did some awesome spinning with a high 80's HR.  Great fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 20 February, 2010, 10:03:20 am
Had a great blast home last night, met Emily on the way which was a nice fluke of timing and we paced out the rest of the journey together  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hulver on 20 February, 2010, 12:33:45 pm
Interesting commute home last night. Almost home, queuing at a junction to turn right out of the road into the main road. There was a car in the middle of the main road turning into my road. The Van in front of me got impatient and tried to drive around the back of the car, as it turned the back of the van scrapped down the side of the turning car (which wasn't moving) practically destroying the rear bumper.

The Van then drove off up the road.

I didn't get the Reg of the Van, and the woman driving the car was in a right mess. I calmed her down and found her a safe place to pull over and assess the damage.

She was panicing because it was her boyfriend's car, she was only taking it round the block to see what it was like, and wasn't actually insured to drive it  ::-)

I left her my number in case she needed a witness, but somehow I doubt she'll be in touch.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 21 February, 2010, 07:19:44 pm
Oh my goodness, that was tiring.  Either it was riding the fixed instead of the recumbent, or the very fast (well for this time of year) commute on the recumbent yesterday, or I'm going down with lurgy, or a combination of all of these.  I'm shattered now, and I did hardly any teaching today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 February, 2010, 10:14:45 am
Moist this morning again.

I almost didn't ride, but I'm glad I did.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 22 February, 2010, 10:28:14 am
Snow, sleet, rain, dry, small hard snow, big soft flakes, rain, rain, rain.
I seemed to go from one micro climate to another, all in the space of 24 miles this morning.
I was comfortable though as I was well dressed for the conditions.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 22 February, 2010, 10:40:49 am
Quote from: Grub on 22 February, 2010, 10:28:14 am
Snow, sleet, rain, dry, small hard snow, big soft flakes, rain, rain, rain.

I had thick fog, rain, sleet and the odd bit of snow.
Oh and a headwind
It wasn't cold however
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cyclone on 22 February, 2010, 10:41:46 am
Struggle against the headwind today, snow on the hills and a massive effort considering the paltry 5 miles into w**k. Really showing that I havent been well for the past month....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 22 February, 2010, 10:53:16 am
Quote from: clarion on 22 February, 2010, 10:14:45 am
Moist this morning again.

I almost didn't ride, but I'm glad I did.

It was significantly more unpleasant than I was expecting. I hope that wind stays in the same direction for the ride home, because I want some payback!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 22 February, 2010, 10:56:35 am
It was COLD in Mcr but the snow had gone. But the windchill was grim. Still, I managed to cycle in so that was good :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 22 February, 2010, 10:59:40 am
I took the long route to the office via the spare bedroom & from there saw a Robin on the bird feeder on the top lawn.Only the second sighting this year.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 22 February, 2010, 11:28:17 am
There were a couple of puddles which were at least 8" deep along the Tooting bec cycle path. I looked down at one point and my bottom bracket was engulfed by the bow wave from my front wheel. Pretty spectacular.
Funnier though was the very small dog who was prancing along like a Lipizzaner stalliojn trying to keep above the water.
Less funny was private hire cab LG58PHV who decided that passing so close to the cyclist in front of me that his wing mirror actually touched the guy's elbow was perfectly acceptable behaviour.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 22 February, 2010, 12:44:37 pm
Decent snow here. Got my waterproofs on, buff up to my eyes, wooly hat down, radiant gloves on. Nearly slipped over on the way to the garage. Realised prolly need to take the MTB. Nearly fell off within 50 yds, but persevered. Headwind and heavy wet snow meant I could barely see, and had to pull the buff up over one eye as it was sore. Got to the main road. Snow was too thick on the cycle path, so tried riding on the tracks that the cars had made. After several vehicles and finally a bus passed me at 60 and showered me with snow, I decided I had enough, and rode back home. I passed a person on an MTB going in the other direction going very slowly, with a balaclava and oakley shades on. Hero.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: arallsopp on 22 February, 2010, 01:37:08 pm
Rain. Lots of rain. First time out with overshoes though. I like. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: urban_biker on 22 February, 2010, 02:10:52 pm
I'm working on overshow layering. Current approach is Endura overshoes covered by my Carradice oiled cotton overshoes.

Seems to do the job for a 1 hour commute anyway. Will be interested to see how they handle an audax.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 22 February, 2010, 02:53:53 pm
Quote from: arallsopp on 22 February, 2010, 01:37:08 pm
Rain. Lots of rain. First time out with overshoes though. I like. :)

Really?! I am wearing 2 different types of overshoes at the moment, as at present I have 3 mismatched ones  ::-)

Today was really not as bad as last Tuesday when I was cycling on the fruity A205 towards Richmond, it felt like I was ingesting a whole pondful of water.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: arallsopp on 22 February, 2010, 03:40:19 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 22 February, 2010, 02:53:53 pm
Really?!

Yep. I know its a bit silly, given this is (hopefully) the tail end of the wet season, but this was also the first day after the weekend that the mrs and I cleared out the loft. Cue much discovery of bike related stuff that had been stashed / tidied / hidden since we moved house 2 years back.

Overshoes were a birthday present from Oct 2007 I believe. I can see why people wear them. Quite lovely. Still have to find some way to waterproof the cleat openings in my MTB soles though. 40 odd miles a day of this is getting me a little sodden. :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 22 February, 2010, 03:56:52 pm
Gore Tex overshoes are my favourite.  I put my Assos toe warmers on underneath too as I do suffer from cold feet.  Add to that my silk socks and then my Woolie Boolies  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: arallsopp on 22 February, 2010, 04:02:49 pm
Toe warmers... MMMmmmm... Even the words sound good.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 22 February, 2010, 08:04:16 pm
Zen cycling on the way home.  Don't know why, it just felt great.
Even the cold strong head wind could not disipate my feeling of oneness with thy cycle.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 22 February, 2010, 08:18:53 pm
Horrible both ways.  Morning: big flakes of wet snow that got in my eyes, and the road was rapidly becoming slushy.  Couldn't use the psyclepaths because they were white (and the studded tyres are reserved for long snowy spells since it takes half an hour to fit them).

Evening: freezing headwind, mud, diesel, vacant locals walking in the middle of the road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 23 February, 2010, 08:26:44 am
I believed a forecast of 'above freezing' and came in fixed.
This is what I have learnt today:

i) At 6.15 you are asleep. Plz to not be sleeping when the pedals wont stop turning  ::-)
ii) in the dark it doesn't look as icy as it does in daylight  :o
iii) 'one nation under a groove' is too slow for even the gentle-est downward slope on fixed  :facepalm:
iv) I should take up 'cross. That walk on the ice splattered crunchy verge with bike slung over the shoulder wasn't too shabby  :thumbsup:
v) That boss-type person drives far too quickly. He picked me up because I was walking past his house and then drove at 45mph on blind corners on a road that was too icy too cycle on.  :hand:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 23 February, 2010, 09:11:37 am
Quote from: fboab on 23 February, 2010, 08:26:44 am
ii) in the dark it doesn't look as icy as it does in daylight  :o

Oddly enough, recently I've often found it easier to spot ice at night, it reflects back from the light with a twinklyness that tarmac doesn't generally demonstrate.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: arallsopp on 23 February, 2010, 09:41:24 am
I ended my (very brief) use of overshoes.

Seems the bent puts my feet at an unexpected position when waiting at lights, with the result that the waterproof membrane has lifted and ripped around the toes.

Well, it was warm whilst it lasted.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 23 February, 2010, 09:43:16 am
Snow on the Blackdowns.  Only on the high up bits.  Drop down and it's light rain
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 23 February, 2010, 09:47:26 am
Quote from: arallsopp on 23 February, 2010, 09:41:24 am
I ended my (very brief) use of overshoes.

Seems the bent puts my feet at an unexpected position when waiting at lights, with the result that the waterproof membrane has lifted and ripped around the toes.

Well, it was warm whilst it lasted.

You *need* some winter boots.  Toasty comfy lovelyness on such a long and wet commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 23 February, 2010, 09:48:08 am
A surprisingly nice ride in. Lots of patches of lumpy frozen snow, but no offs  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: arallsopp on 23 February, 2010, 09:55:19 am
Quote from: Wendy on 23 February, 2010, 09:47:26 am

You *need* some winter boots.  Toasty comfy lovelyness on such a long and wet commute.
[/quote]

How do I know winter boots won't suffer the same fate? You and I both know Wendy's little tootsies never touch the ground.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 23 February, 2010, 09:56:25 am
Because soles of shoes are tougher than "membranes".   :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 23 February, 2010, 10:10:21 am
Another cold ride.  I had my Bones on with my Gore Tex over the top.  I was toasty but don't remember having to do that much layering before.

Lovely ride in though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 23 February, 2010, 10:17:22 am
This guy.

Quote from: alexb on 22 February, 2010, 11:28:17 am

Less funny was private hire cab LG58PHV who decided that passing so close to the cyclist in front of me that his wing mirror actually touched the guy's elbow was perfectly acceptable behaviour.


turned out of the same road this morning as he did yesterday morning. It's a cul de sac. I'm betting he lives there.

Note on the windscreen? Something along the lines of: "You're a dangerous driver and I know where you live!"

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: arallsopp on 23 February, 2010, 10:20:27 am
Quote from: Wendy on 23 February, 2010, 09:56:25 am
Because soles of shoes are tougher than "membranes".   :P

But its not the soles that hit the floor. 'Cos I'm horizontal, it tends to be the very tip of my toe that is in contact with the ground, and sometimes the top of the front of the shoe too. Might have to look around for a pair with a wrap around sole at the the front :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 23 February, 2010, 10:22:44 am
Just stick a bumper on there if by chance the sole doesn't touch.  Done all the time in skating.

@Alex, maybe a note with a copy of rule 163, including the image, and explaining that you saw him pass close enough to touch a cyclist with his mirror.  I would always be specific, because these sorts of driver are very unlikely to understand hints, at least even less so than a random ordinary person.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: arallsopp on 23 February, 2010, 10:29:23 am
Good idea. Cheers!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 23 February, 2010, 10:31:05 am
Quote from: arallsopp on 22 February, 2010, 03:40:19 pm
<snip>
Still have to find some way to waterproof the cleat openings in my MTB soles though...
<snip>
Fernox LS-X external leak sealer, about 5 or 6 quid a tube from DIY places like B&Q.  Doesn't go rock hard so replacing cleats and plates is easy enough.

Product details: LS-X (http://www.fernox.com/?cccpage=ls_x&sub=6)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: arallsopp on 23 February, 2010, 10:33:32 am
Thanks TheLurker. I could yet find my way back with warm toes. Good times!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 23 February, 2010, 10:39:51 am
Easy peasy ride in this morning; getting light from about 0625, roads dry, good side/tail wind and not too cold. 

Mind you I'll pay for it tonight.  The forecast is for heavy wet and that delightful tail wind of this morning... ah I can see you're ahead of me. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 23 February, 2010, 11:13:27 am
Punctured in Battersea Park - rear wheel, naturally. All going well until the tyre wouldn't seat properly in the rim next to the new valve, so I spent at least 20 mins fiddling with it to try and get it to go in properly. Then realised that the new tube wouldn't inflate. Just as well I had a second spare. And cursed myself for not having my trusty frame pump, having to rely instead on the shitty little mini pump (mini pump = mini inflation) and taking it easy the rest of the way in on a very soft tyre. 45 mins just to change a tube. Gah.

And on top of that, I started out thinking that I would save my gloves from the gak on my bike, which is the dirtiest it has ever been in its entire life, and do it bare-handed - easy enough to wash hands at work. Which would have been fine if I'd been able to do it quickly. Instead, I now have ingrained grime in my knuckles, fingers, and especially under my long nails which are impossible to clean out properly without a nailbrush and some muc-off. I had the cracking idea of giving my nails an emergency coat of polish to try and hide it, but the grime is showing through and now I look like some skanky bag lady.

So, lunchtime trip: Boots for nail polish remover, Action Bikes for muc-off wipes.

Good grief.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 February, 2010, 11:24:46 am
Skanky bag ladies (who can repair p*nct*res) FTW!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 23 February, 2010, 11:55:18 am
To pick up on the "Overshoes" discussion

I was given a pair of Endura Neoprene overshoes for xmas
They have "kevlar reinforced" straps across the soles

After less than 3 months commuting the straps across the soles are looking like old sacks and very frayed.  On the right foot bootie the stitching across the front of the foot is coming undone

Warm and comfy...yes
Durable...no
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 23 February, 2010, 12:00:04 pm
Quote from: alexb on 23 February, 2010, 10:17:22 am
This guy.

Quote from: alexb on 22 February, 2010, 11:28:17 am

Less funny was private hire cab LG58PHV who decided that passing so close to the cyclist in front of me that his wing mirror actually touched the guy's elbow was perfectly acceptable behaviour.


turned out of the same road this morning as he did yesterday morning. It's a cul de sac. I'm betting he lives there.

Note on the windscreen? Something along the lines of: "You're a dangerous driver and I know where you live!"



Possibly unethical and probably untruthful. But leave a note telling him that you saw him hit another road user and leave the scene, and have duly reported it and provided his details to the police, so he should expect them to call around shortly.

A few days of worry might encourage him to revisit his attitude to driving.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 23 February, 2010, 01:43:01 pm
Quote from: vorsprung on 23 February, 2010, 11:55:18 am
To pick up on the "Overshoes" discussion

I was given a pair of Endura Neoprene overshoes for xmas
They have "kevlar reinforced" straps across the soles

After less than 3 months commuting the straps across the soles are looking like old sacks and very frayed.  On the right foot bootie the stitching across the front of the foot is coming undone

Warm and comfy...yes
Durable...no

Stick with them.  They get to a certain state of dilapidation very quickly and then they last for absolutely ages.  My current pair, Xmas '07, got to the state you can see in the photograph within a month or two and they haven't got significantly worse since.

(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4058/4381413223_5b88e88baf_m.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 23 February, 2010, 01:49:27 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 23 February, 2010, 01:43:01 pm
Quote from: vorsprung on 23 February, 2010, 11:55:18 am
To pick up on the "Overshoes" discussion

I was given a pair of Endura Neoprene overshoes for xmas
They have "kevlar reinforced" straps across the soles

After less than 3 months commuting the straps across the soles are looking like old sacks and very frayed.  On the right foot bootie the stitching across the front of the foot is coming undone

Warm and comfy...yes
Durable...no

Stick with them.  They get to a certain state of dilapidation very quickly and then they last for absolutely ages.  My current pair, Xmas '07, got to the state you can see in the photograph within a month or two and they haven't got significantly worse since.

(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4058/4381413223_5b88e88baf_m.jpg)


Yep I've got those, only have lost one of the pair  :( It does make your feet look like a zeppelin in a condom though...I bought the small size (size 5) and it took me a few minutes to get them over my shoes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 23 February, 2010, 03:21:17 pm
You should try looking at size 12 shoes in overshoes then.
Especially with tight ankles from lycra leggings  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 23 February, 2010, 04:00:50 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 23 February, 2010, 01:43:01 pm
Quote from: vorsprung on 23 February, 2010, 11:55:18 am
To pick up on the "Overshoes" discussion

I was given a pair of Endura Neoprene overshoes for xmas
They have "kevlar reinforced" straps across the soles

After less than 3 months commuting the straps across the soles are looking like old sacks and very frayed.  On the right foot bootie the stitching across the front of the foot is coming undone

Warm and comfy...yes
Durable...no

Stick with them.  They get to a certain state of dilapidation very quickly and then they last for absolutely ages.  My current pair, Xmas '07, got to the state you can see in the photograph within a month or two and they haven't got significantly worse since.

(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4058/4381413223_5b88e88baf_m.jpg)


I've got some I bought from ProBikeKit. They're now pretty tatty around the toes, but the kevlar reinforcement seems to work fine, so although the neoprene has holes in, it's all held together by kevlar cloth.
I agree though, they get tatty looking very quickly and then just stop wearing out. Once you have a hole in the toe it's your shoe making contact with the ground again - there's nothing to wear out anymore!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: αdαmsκι on 23 February, 2010, 06:32:44 pm
Bloomin' weather! It started snowing ten minutes before I could leave work this evening. Normally cycling in snow isn't too bad, but this was driving snow and I kept getting eye fulls of the stuff, which was horrible. Plus it was only just cold enough for snow, meaning as soon as the snow hit anything (ie me) it melted, so by the time I was home I was very soggy and cold. Top marks for the yacf buff that I turned into a balaclava after about 2 km of the commute to keep me warm.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 23 February, 2010, 07:54:42 pm
20 miles home into a raging headwind blizzard again this evening....
White roads, very few motons, could not see much of the scenery other than the road due to the driving snow...
Forecast 8C tomorrow afternoon, falling to -1C in the evening - thats UK weather for you!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 23 February, 2010, 10:05:19 pm
Homeward for me was a drag too.  Strong cold wet headwind.  Depressing.  I lost the will to live at about the 12 mile mark  ;D

Forget to mention this morning I had an excellent draft behind a grain lorry.  Just checked my top speed and I managed 45.9 mph  ;D  No wonders it was so choppy in his wash when I came out from behind to turn off left.

p.s. Pieter, I am about to tap you on the shoulder and wave as I go by  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 24 February, 2010, 07:23:18 am
A glorious morning here in the bottom right hand corner of Gloucestershire.  Light in the sky at about 0550 and no need for headlamps from about 0630.  Next to no breeze and patches of light mist.  Lovely.

The only fly in the ointment was that my legs are absolutely cooked after last night's slog home so I couldn't take advantage of it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 24 February, 2010, 08:29:09 am
Charged back to the hotel last night, did it in 34 mins, down 1:30 on the trip in.  This morning was good and bad, in equal measure.  The good was playing cat and mouse for a couple of miles with another cyclist, before he turned off towards Ruislip.  Bad was not one, but two, motons trying to kill me by pulling out of side streets into my path.  Thankfully, on both occasions, they were greeted by a VERY loud "WHOAAAAAAAAAAA" from me, which made them stop....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 24 February, 2010, 08:31:41 am
Strange last night, a sporty hatchback overtook and a yoof leant out of the passenger window and went "Waaauuuggghhh!!!".

I have no idea why, I hadn't held him up, it was a straight road and a straightforward overtake. Weird.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: αdαmsκι on 24 February, 2010, 09:03:30 am
As I've already yesterday, the ride home yesterday was bloomin' cold. In comparision, this morning I had to stop to remove my buff and Pertex top because I was overheating. This is clearly a sign spring is on the way because it was the first 2010 ride that I've managed without wearing my Pertex or Altura NightVision.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 24 February, 2010, 09:18:36 am
I CBA to ride home in the falling but not settling SNO last night so got a lift.
Penance is Other ThingsTM meaning you can't ride when the weather is nicer.
This daylight thing is quite good though. I could get used to that.   :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 24 February, 2010, 09:24:17 am
Thick, thick fog

Grey cars without lights on.

Did someone dump a supertanker load of stupid on the road this morning?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 24 February, 2010, 06:03:40 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 24 February, 2010, 09:24:17 am
Thick, thick fog

Grey cars without lights on.

Did someone dump a supertanker load of stupid on the road this morning?

Perhaps that was the run-off from the supertanker that dropped such quantities of diesel on the roads that in some places the shiny spill covered the entire lane. >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 24 February, 2010, 08:17:49 pm
Very warm and moist this morning.  No trucks to draft either.
Very windy and moist coming home.  Blood sugar had dropped to 4.4 by the time I got home so it was no wonders I was hallucinating  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moloko on 24 February, 2010, 08:24:53 pm
Quote from: Grub on 24 February, 2010, 08:17:49 pm
Blood sugar had dropped to 4.4 by the time I got home so it was no wonders I was hallucinating  ;D

Although you're still well in the "target zone" you also get all the nasty "hypo" symptoms too, although it's 4+ mmol/L?

Shitty isn't it?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 24 February, 2010, 08:42:16 pm
Quote from: Grub on 23 February, 2010, 10:05:19 pm

p.s. Pieter, I am about to tap you on the shoulder and wave as I go by  ;D

*** Waves ***  as Grub swirls past and disappears off into the distance into a cloud of fog and sleet...  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 24 February, 2010, 09:21:23 pm
Pestilence. War. Famine. Death. Or, as their friends refer to them: the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse.

Well, it turned out to be a bad day for them. Seems they may be out of a job, for I’ve seen the true agent of our doom.

Now, as a creature of habit, I’ve mostly avoided the vehicular maelstrom that is school collection time. Until today. Pesky software gremlin jumped into my breakfast porridge and swam around till late-afternoon, delaying my daily baptismal in the local pool. My route takes me past a school, which I believe is a place were during the day they imprison children, mostly to keep them from scaring Daily Mail readers into early incontinence.

I would like to say I rode past the school. But it was surrounded by an impermeable wall of stationary cars. My initial thought was that some freak science experiment gone wrong had turned the school into a giant magnet that had reached out and yanked in cars from several streets around. Surely, considerate parents wouldn’t have ignored all the ‘no parking’ signs, the bright yellow zig-zag lines, the ‘keep clear’ notices, the threats of £120 fines. Surely they wouldn’t just sit there, blocking the road, choking out fumes, in a great mass of toxic, grinding metal. Surely.

The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse have nothing on the Fifty-or-so Drivers of Bromley. Pestilence. War. Famine. Death. Meet your successor: Stupidity. And prepare to have your equine-elevated asses kicked so hard you’ll feel like you have given cause for Chuck Norris to become mildly miffed.

Now, OK, I suppose your blessed little angels may require the services of a chauffeur. The pavements could be dirty, after all. There are all kinds of unconscionable scenarios, so I salute you for doing the right thing. But you know, just a teensy, little element of criticism. I just have to let it out. I’ll try and be constructive.

You are morons. Your stupidity is so visible that it can be seen from space by a myopic astronaut. Park your car somewhere safe, somewhere where there aren’t signs warning, begging, pleading, for sake’s of your own children not to park. Switch off the engine. Walk the extra hundred metres to the gate. Your legs are unlikely to work loose and fall off.

Think for the briefest flicker of a moment. Think that this is the selfish, lazy example you are setting to your children.

You are not people. You are mulch. If your children follow this path, then I think we may be a teensy bit doomed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 24 February, 2010, 09:31:36 pm
Ian, you've done it again.
POTD.
[Bow in awe smiley]
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 24 February, 2010, 09:47:56 pm
Quote from: Dicky Mo on 24 February, 2010, 08:24:53 pm
Quote from: Grub on 24 February, 2010, 08:17:49 pm
Blood sugar had dropped to 4.4 by the time I got home so it was no wonders I was hallucinating  ;D

Although you're still well in the "target zone" you also get all the nasty "hypo" symptoms too, although it's 4+ mmol/L?

Shitty isn't it?


Yep, 'tis our life.  But on the up side, it is good training for audax night riding  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 24 February, 2010, 10:54:27 pm
Quote from: Dicky Mo on 24 February, 2010, 08:24:53 pm
Quote from: Grub on 24 February, 2010, 08:17:49 pm
Blood sugar had dropped to 4.4 by the time I got home so it was no wonders I was hallucinating  ;D

Although you're still well in the "target zone" you also get all the nasty "hypo" symptoms too, although it's 4+ mmol/L?

Hmm, I feel OK at that sort of level.  The worst cycling level I ever had was about 1.5 mmol/L, barely within the capability of the meter, when I just got home after a FNRttC.  I couldn't have cycled much further at that point!

I've found that I have to eat pretty much as much food as I can keep down after having breakfast on a FNRttC, otherwise I easily suffer from a really bad hypo.  FNRttCs have caused my two worst ever hypos.

ian, unfortunately I have to agree with you about people picking up / dropping off kids at schools.  They are by far and away the most moronic group of drivers you're likely to meet.  Luckily my commute very rarely hits the couple of locations with schools at just the "wrong" time.  One typical occasion was when some of these geniuses decided to park two deep on the stop line of a (single carriageway wide) traffic light.  Yes, that's the best place to stop guys. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 24 February, 2010, 11:03:20 pm
At that level I am still okay in the legs as long as I am in zone 2 and not trying too hard (below 70% of max HR) but what does go is my head  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 25 February, 2010, 06:07:38 am
Thank you, Ian. You have brightened up my day already.  ;D ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tewdric on 25 February, 2010, 06:28:34 am
Superb Ian.  POTD for sure.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 25 February, 2010, 08:06:42 am
First barn owl of the year.
Lots of bird song in the hedgerows.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 February, 2010, 09:26:23 am
What a lovely ride!

Yes, I know, what about the cagers?  Well, yes, they were there, and one tried dooring me as I went round the first corner from home.  But mindless idiots will always exist, and I overtook an awful lot of them this morning. 

I wasn't looking forward to my ride, and was a bit 'faffy' before going out, but the first thing I had noticed on waking this morning (besides the most beautiful woman in hte world lying beside me) was light shining through the curtains.  And so I had my first proper daylight commute of the year - sun shining, no snow, no rain, and miraculously no incessant headwinds.

I wasn't very fast - not by my usual standards (and definitely not by others') - but it was the fastest journey of the month, and reminded me why we ride.

:) :) :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 25 February, 2010, 10:04:41 am
plus points
it wasn't raining
it was reasonably warm
beat my time up Wallace's Hill was 3m50s, now 3m36s
let a car pass and it bipped a thank you

minus
Turning right to take new short cut.  This is on a downhill so breaking is required.  One handed, as is arm indicating.  Hit a groove worn in the road, yikes.  Momentary loss of control at 20mph with traffic behind, not nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ed_o_brain on 25 February, 2010, 10:36:09 am
 +
Matched my best commute time so far this year, despite heavy traffic
Exceeded evens easily on every open stretch that wasn't more than a slight ascent
Out-accelerated the "rapha guy" - as if he was standing still*.
A couple of drivers were very courteous
Maintained some very high cadences, over 25 mph in something like 42 x 16, over 30 mph in 42 x 12 (on 26" tyres)

-
Some moronic moton behaviour
Traffic


I can't wait to get the new road bike commissioned - I never imagined being so quick on an MTB with Marathons.


*Last time we crossed paths, he worked very hard to get ahead and stay ahead of me. Until he blew a light and I let him go. Oh, and I was towing a trailer at the time!



Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 25 February, 2010, 10:37:58 am
Nice ride in, as others have said, in daylight.  Wind low and running well, apart from two little issues:

1) the road over the M4 at Harlington (A437) is pothole central, and the former contents of those potholes is spread across the road :(
2) an idiot from Imperial coaches tried killing me by passing me on a really narrow bit of road, with traffic coming the other way!!!!

Other than that I did it in ~30 mins, so getting better and faster :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 February, 2010, 10:40:38 am
That's good news.

I'm reminded that, for the first time this year, I've been riding with a lot of other cyclists, and I'm not just one of the pack, but the one who gets away first from the lights and stays ahead.  That's how I like it.  I'm not competitive, but it's a good indication things are going OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Russell on 25 February, 2010, 11:11:48 am
I was going to start a new thread entitled 'What a great ride in today!' but I see I don't need to!

Weather, temp, wind and clothing all just right and nobody tried to kill me which was a great bonus.

Happy bunny!

R
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 25 February, 2010, 11:21:51 am
My commute in today shall be labelled as 'The Great Ride of Irritability'. The wonderful A202 has now succumbed to a series of roadworks which stretches from New Cross to Peckham. Not a big distance but it means more irritable drivers, delays to the journey and an increasing lessening of the zen factor. Then once you enter into Southwark, the lollipop men and women of doom who stop the traffic every frigging 3 seconds so that one person can cross the road and then that builds up a huge traffic jam of buses which block the junction. At the moment I am really not liking my commute.  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 25 February, 2010, 11:45:05 am

All these other people having great commutes, looks like you and I are in a minority hrer_welshness.

As I wheeled my bike out of the garage I noticed that my rear wheel was fairly flat, so I took my track pump out and topped it up.  It was noticeably milder than of late so I took my hat and long-fingered gloves back inside and put on some mitts and a cap. 

4 miles in to the 8-mile commute, through Clydach, and there were some blue flashing lights round a corner and cars were turning round in the road.  There were a couple of fireman and I asked if I could go through.  Hesitation – then “Probably not, sorry mate” and a pat on the shoulder.  Room for persuasion but never mind, the alternative is a little shorter but a lot steeper (back road from Clydach to Morriston hospital for those who know it) and I could do with some hill practise for Saturday’s Gospel Pass Audax.

Get to the bike shed at work by 7:10 to discover that I don’t have my keys with me; the keys to lock up my bike, open my locker in the changing room, and open the locker at work with my laptop inside.  Phone home.  Yes, they are still in the garage door.  My routine had been thrown out slightly, and that was the result.  Turn tail and get home again.  Check rear tyre.  Still solid, but front is now spongy, so top that up and head back towards work.  No detour this time - the fire tenders have been replaced by police cars and there’s a burnt-out Range Rover with incident-scene tape surrounding it.  Front tyre getting spongy again so remove tube to discover the valve coming away from the rest of the tube.  Replace it.  Get to the changing room to discover both showers occupied.  I rarely see anyone else in the changing rooms so having to wait feels like adding insult to injury.

Eventually get to my desk at 9, nearly 2 hours later than usual.  Discover the sandwiches I made last night are not in the Carradice so are probably still in the fridge at home.  I should probably request that my access to the production database be suspended for the rest of the day, just in case.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 25 February, 2010, 12:42:44 pm
I had to laugh yesterday on my commute, well travels to a site meeting, someone had tried to take a double decker bus onto the tube.

Or rather had tried to get down the steps into monument station at the north end of London Bridge. Fortunately the huge kerbs and the railings had done their job but the front of the bus was a bit battered.

Thanks to the friendly policemen and fire brigade I was directed round past the Monument itself to get back to the bridge which was then blessedly free of traffic.

Regards

Matthew
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lycra Man on 25 February, 2010, 02:17:12 pm
My commute is 15 miles from Waddesdon to Leighton Buzzard. I go across country and there is a decent rise, a dip in the middle, and another climb. Same coming back.

Before Christmas I was doing it in 54-57 minutes, but then held off to avoid the ice in December and snow in January. Feeling like I had lost a lot of fitness, I started again 3 weeks ago, and got my time down from 64 minutes to 56 minutes 44 seconds today.  :thumbsup:

Hopefully next week I will start to use my newly acquired Genesis Day 06, when it will have been fitted with a new dyno hub front wheel, B&M Cyo front light, and Carradice Nelson Longflap.

I'll be disappointed if I'm not faster.

Lycra Man
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 25 February, 2010, 08:07:18 pm
Nuncio,

Those days are the worst  ;D

My commute today was okay going in due to the electrolyte tablet but coming home was very windy, wet and cold.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 25 February, 2010, 08:18:11 pm
Best thing about my commute today was actually being on the bike.
For a variety of reasons I've been car bound since last Friday.
So I didn't really care about the damp, the s**t all over the road, or the cars.

And we went out at lunch time for a 10 miler.
Started to rain heavily at the highest point of the route which is about 1.8 miles from work, but all down hill.
Exhilarating rather than anything else.
 :D :D

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 25 February, 2010, 10:18:04 pm
Karma:

While stopped at traffic lights this evening, I looked down & saw a cable lock on the road. I picked it up and put it in my pocket, as you do  :) Further down the road I passed a geezer on a mountain bike & asked him if he'd lost a lock. It turned out to be his and he seemed quite please to get it back  :thumbsup: (complimented me on my Pomp too).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 26 February, 2010, 09:09:57 am
Wind, wind, and wind.  >:(

Cycling West — headwind.  Cycling South — headwind. Cycling West — headwind. Cycling North — crosswind, hurrah!  Cycling West — headwind.

In spite of the wind, I was slightly quicker this morning.  It was good to be on the Ribble again.  Just hope the ride home is not as wet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 26 February, 2010, 09:22:18 am
i set off on time but felt a little under powered.  So I took the short(er) route to work.  Unfortunately as I rode along I felt better and so arrived at work 10 or 15 minutes early....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 26 February, 2010, 10:22:11 am
Felt underpowered and struggled into the headwind all the way to work. Glad I rode though, I nearly didn't as I came home with an achey knee last night but it didn't cause any trouble this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 26 February, 2010, 01:40:37 pm
Yes, I struggled cycling against a headwind on the way home yesterday, and struggled cycling against a headwind on the way to work today. :-\

On the plus side, that should mean the wind will be behind us for the FNRttC tonight. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Fluffy on 26 February, 2010, 01:57:16 pm
Man what a ride today, to start with I almost took at a pedestrian crossing the road (she didnt look once and was bloody texting too) It was also monsoon rain, lucky I got my new set of mudguards yesterday. Towards the end a dumb bitch woman almost took me out pulling out at a junction, she pointed out the lights past the junction were on red but I still had right of way and could easily queue up at the front. She also didnt look before pulling out and had the cheek to beep her horn.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 February, 2010, 02:16:47 pm
Just been out for a wee ride to the bank.  Northwards to Borough was into the wind.  Excellent.  That means I will have a tailwind tonight.

Except I won't.  On my way back south, I still had a headwind. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 26 February, 2010, 02:19:28 pm
Massive slog into a headwind all the way.  But it is still blowing a gale out there so going home will be ace.

Two drivers in Devizes didn't like me being in front of them and did moronic overtakes.  Luckily they both turned left at the next roundabout as I was about to get my pointy finger out, and my flashy bit of tin.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 26 February, 2010, 02:54:46 pm
Coming out of Richmond Park there's a mini roundabout (Roehampton Gate for the locals :)) with a right turn into a cul-de-sac where there's a school. It being drop off time so a woman going the other way stopped just as she cleared the roundabout opened doors and stared letting her kids out. When someone remonstrated her reply was "I've got to get the kids to school"  ::-) Fortunately the ensuing gridlock meant that I could procedd easily between the lines of cars  :demon:

Later filtering slowly outside a line of stationery traffic Mr BMW decided he was above looking for oncoming traffic and pulled straight out in my path. My first emergency stop since I've had the disc brake fitted and it did the job perfectly.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: recumbentim on 26 February, 2010, 07:23:17 pm
Tail wind form Finavon A90 to Blairgowrie.Cold 3 degrees but did my first over 20 av  --20.3 YES.          22.5 miles in total to Tescos to buy Gin
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 26 February, 2010, 09:35:31 pm
It was cold coming home, even with a tail wind and sunshine.  Managed an average of 17.8 mph for my 24.2 miles with 958 ft of climbing.  Average HR was 74% of max too.  I was really flying  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 27 February, 2010, 12:40:58 pm
Yesterday, rather than today.  I got to stop alongside a Sky van, knock on the window and indicate 'please can you roll down the window'.

So that I could say to the driver 'Thank you.  It's really nice when there are van drivers who properly ook out for cyclists and it really made my day that you did."

Good (albeit short, windy and very very wet) ride :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 27 February, 2010, 07:29:03 pm
Some absolutely lovely drivers out there today, lots of friendly cabbies and bus drivers.  I did get a couple of close overtakes, and saw one blatantly red light jumping cyclist.  Hopefully I got some good footage of that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: dasmoth on 01 March, 2010, 09:24:34 am
What a beautiful morning!  One might almost think it was spring.

The faeries are still out and about though, but at least they only struck 1/2 mile from work -- so didn't spoil the great ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 01 March, 2010, 09:48:35 am
What a lovely morning for me too.  It was so sunny and blue skied at home that I broke out the 3/4 leggings for the first day of spring.  There was still loads of ice about in the shade though.

At the 12 mile mark I descended into a thick gloom of fog.  Very thick.  I was thankful that I had not taken my Joystick MaX2 off my helmet as the extra flasher gave me peace of mind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 March, 2010, 09:56:27 am
Grand, grand ride!  Only marred by Butterfly being the recipient of an aerial excremental bombardment from a passing bird. :(

But nicely cold, no wind, no rain, and not much ice. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 01 March, 2010, 10:09:32 am
Lovely morning but  lots of black ice in Richmond Park. Saw about 5 cyclists go down and heard reports of several others. One poor chap was taken away by ambulance: concussion and broken collar bone according to the paramedics.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 01 March, 2010, 10:17:32 am
Lovely ride in this morning - all the idiots were coming the other way so were easy to see.

No ice, lots of sunshine and I'm back in shorts  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 March, 2010, 10:21:47 am
Re: All  the idiots.  There were a phenomenal number of fools queueing in their motor vehicles.  No idea why.  And I passed at least two unscheduled vehicle interfaces - fortunately no one seemed to be hurt, and the low sunlight was unlikely to be a factor.

But there were lots and lots and lots of bicyclists :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 01 March, 2010, 11:15:09 am
Quote from: Regulator (a.k.a. DUG) on 01 March, 2010, 10:17:32 am
No ice,
How did you manage that?
Still sheets of it here >:(
Maybe I just get up earlier than you...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 01 March, 2010, 04:01:27 pm
Lovely lovely ride this morning :D.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 March, 2010, 04:02:23 pm
You forgot to mention the poo ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 01 March, 2010, 04:16:18 pm
Well, it's all gone now :), and that wasn't enough unlovely to make up for all the lovely :D.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 March, 2010, 04:22:38 pm
There was lots of lovely. Especially on the first half of my commute :-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moloko on 01 March, 2010, 04:25:04 pm
Quote from: clarion on 01 March, 2010, 04:02:23 pm
You forgot to mention the poo ;D

Hope that wasn't "poo" poo?  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 01 March, 2010, 08:05:58 pm
Mrs G has been reminding me that I promised to get home on time.  So tonight, after being reminded that I had not accomplished my promise of late I caned it home  ;D 
My reward was to have dinner with my family - all together at the table.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ed_o_brain on 01 March, 2010, 08:52:17 pm
Commute home was a disaster. Managed to lock the folding bike in the office and myself out the office. I left my fob on my desk and nipped out to the loo. half unfolded bike left in doorway behind the locked door. Fortunately I at least had my wallet with me!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 01 March, 2010, 09:23:24 pm
Here's my nice bus driver from Saturday:


      YouTube
            - Excellent bus driver - R2 Orpington PN02 KRK
    (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SWqQHXFagDE)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: dasmoth on 01 March, 2010, 10:01:22 pm
The faerie seems on my case  :(.

When I finally made it home this evening, I was heard -- for pretty much the first time ever -- to speak the dread words "Marathon Plus".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: αdαmsκι on 01 March, 2010, 11:28:22 pm
Commute home was brilliant. I went to a public lecture after work, so it was gone 9pm by the time I was heading home. The full moon was strong, the night clear, the roads empty and my new Hope Vision light lit the way wonderfully. Just over 14 km at an average of 28.4 kph put a smile on face.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 01 March, 2010, 11:38:17 pm
I had a nice commute too - not terribly fast (and rather heavily laden on the way home) but I took advantage of being on the Marin to take a short muddy Thames path section both ways. The latter was especially good in the dark: Fenix L2D is pretty hard to beat on a short commute when you are not too bothered about run time and can run it full tilt, very nicely shaped beam for towpath type stuff.  

There was a definite increase in driver niceness: waiting for me to get through pinch points, for instance, and this morning I could hear a black cab driver backing off to let me go around a bad patch on the road (I'd been preparing to ride more or less over it as per usual). 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 March, 2010, 09:02:44 am
I went through a bit earlier than usual today, and took the alternate route via the Col de St Reatham, but it was uncommonly clear.  I was doing 35kph past Brixton Town Hall, and 26kph past Atlantic Road, which is almost unheard of.  Yes, there was a bit of stopping & starting after that, and what looked a bit like car knitting near Walworth to get through, but it was a brilliant ride.  Fastest of the year, I think, and the fastest maximum so far this year.

Cold but sunny.  Lovely.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 02 March, 2010, 01:03:09 pm
Despite suffering from the dreaded lurgy, and having no sleep, I had a fantastic ride in today.

Sun just starting to come up, motons giving me plenty of room and no ice.  Managed to reach a max of 29.3mph on my way in, and still averaged 13.5 for the whole distance....

I iz enjoying this...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 02 March, 2010, 01:23:26 pm
Cold but sunny here, too. Surprised to find a lovely 'icing sugar' coating of snow on fields, trees and cyclepath. No ice tho'.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 02 March, 2010, 07:34:22 pm
Colder today and much less ice.
Caned it home last night.  Couldn't repeat it tonight but I tried.
Shagged now.  Can't move the legs very well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 March, 2010, 08:21:35 pm
Cold again tonight, but a lot of fun, even on the A23. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 02 March, 2010, 08:28:22 pm
And on the way home the front gear cable outer exploded. Really. It looked liked an Alien had erupted from it's innards.  So much for poncy parallel-strand Shimano cable outers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: longers on 02 March, 2010, 09:52:17 pm
On the way home I had a family in a car wind down their window while we were in traffic to ask how far I'd ridden as I had two rear panniers on.

"About a mile, I've just left work". They thought it was funny and it put a smile on my face that someone was interested enough to ask.

Then a couple of miles later someone stopped their car and got out to tell me that they thought my wallet had fallen out at the lights. It had and I am very grateful to the bloke in the silver Mondeo. Ta.

The sun was mostly shining, one pair of gloves, no buffs - just a cap, no overshoes and I nearly got home before the streetlights came on. A good trip.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 03 March, 2010, 09:00:56 am
Stupid incident spoiled my ride completely this morning, even worse that the ride was shaping up to be a beauty :(

A cyclist who we see relatively frequently, who always passes within a hairs-breadth, did it to me again this morning on the approach to Kennington Road. This time he was so close, just before some nasty broken up tarmac, that it gave me a real scare. There weren't even any cars in the lane next to the bus lane.

Unfortunately I chased him down (not difficult) and leant on him and shouted "next time you want to pass someone that close, do it on the club run" before moving back away. He wasn't very happy about this, unsurprisingly, and all the way down Kennington Road we had a chat about his pass. He couldn't see any difference between his "I didn't touch you" and my "You passed me dangerously close and intimidated me"

I apologised for leaning on him, but he was too full of self righteous indignation to accept it and too full of his own skills as a cyclist to agree to pass with more room next time we met, simply coming back with the standard moton justification of "I didn't touch you".

Pissweasel. >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 03 March, 2010, 09:21:25 am
My brake broke :(

With a kershproingklunk from the vicinity of the lever.

And now the rear disk is jammed on, and I don't know anything at all about how to fix disk brakes.

Fortunately this happened about 10 minutes walk from a friend-wivva-garage's house.  Well, nearer 20 minutes if you're carrying a bike with a wheel that won't go round.  And there was a garage with a cashpoint fairly close to the bus stop so I could go and extract bus fare money.  So it only took me an hour and a half to get to work today....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 03 March, 2010, 09:24:37 am
Last night I was flying, took me 29:49 to get back, sun shining and, although not warm, it wasn't freezing either.

This morning was a similar story, so much so that I packed my jacket in the rack pack and rode in just in my cycling top (and shorts, natch).

I think my old form may be returning :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 03 March, 2010, 09:27:09 am
Quote from: Jacomus on 03 March, 2010, 09:00:56 am
leant on him and shouted "next time you want to pass someone that close, do it on the club run"

Nice one Jacomus!  Yes, I know it's wrong, but well done.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 March, 2010, 09:30:26 am
Quote from: Jacomus on 03 March, 2010, 09:00:56 am
... he was so close, just before some nasty broken up tarmac, that it gave me a real scare. There weren't even any cars in the lane next to the bus lane.

... He couldn't see any difference between his "I didn't touch you" and my "You passed me dangerously close and intimidated me"

...he was too full of self righteous indignation to accept it and too full of his own skills as a cyclist to agree to pass with more room next time we met, simply coming back with the standard moton justification of "I didn't touch you".

Pissweasel. >:(

I think I can guess what club he belongs to.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 March, 2010, 09:38:16 am
Grand ride in this morning, even unspoiled by the tosspot from Merton Timber, who was unable to anticipate, so accelerated past me as I was trying to pull out round a bus.  Never mind, the weather was good, there were loads of cyclists on the road, and my speed was good.  Just wish I hadn't had to stop at work :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 03 March, 2010, 09:46:04 am
Headwind all the way in, which made "cold" feel like "very cold"

I was undertaken by a 4x4 just before a mini roundabout

But overall good because this is the 5th commute in a row I have not been rained on!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 03 March, 2010, 09:56:14 am
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 03 March, 2010, 09:21:25 am
My brake broke :(

With a kershproingklunk from the vicinity of the lever.

And now the rear disk is jammed on, and I don't know anything at all about how to fix disk brakes.

Fortunately this happened about 10 minutes walk from a friend-wivva-garage's house.  Well, nearer 20 minutes if you're carrying a bike with a wheel that won't go round.  And there was a garage with a cashpoint fairly close to the bus stop so I could go and extract bus fare money.  So it only took me an hour and a half to get to work today....
Is this the new bike?

Sounds like the brake cable outer has slipped it's retainer in the brake lever.

Where did you get the bike from? If it's the new one and from a shop, drop it into the shop to sort out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 03 March, 2010, 10:06:40 am
Tis indeed the new bike.  And yes, I need to call the shop and sort out taking it in.  Fortunately my friend-wivva-garage has said that she'll drop it off at my house (a convenient 5 minute walk/10 minute carrying a bike) tonight or can take it straight to the LBS on Friday - otherwise it would be a loooong walk.

Having just about got the hang of dealing with the p-word, brake fettling was on my list of 'things to start learning' for this week.  Clearly Valencia has a different timetable to me...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 03 March, 2010, 10:24:25 am
I am currently commuting on Dawes Discovery 101 (because indestructible commuting bike is broken.)   Now I plan to commit bikicide on Dawes 101 so maintenance has been a little lax.  I start my commute this morning, I hear a car behind me and as I am in a good mood I decided to pull over to the side on to an area of hard mud.  Bike does not stop, the brake blokes have finally given up and I roll forward a couple of feet on to soft mud and sink 20cms.  I continue onward having some very unsafe stops behind cars as traffic dictates.  As I approach work I carry on past and into Bridgend to the local bike shop in Five Bells lane. I buy some brake pads and return back down the busy road to the industrial estate.  This was particularly alarming, descending in traffic that stops every so often, requiring lane changes is very dodgy without braking. I arrived at work and will make my bike safe lunchtime.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 03 March, 2010, 06:23:04 pm
Saw an abandoned BSO  with snapped cables and a pringled back wheel in the Innocent Tunnel. A bloke  helped me get it to the tunnel entrance (Southside end) but I couldn't get it any further on my own and I don't care enough to go back for it to drag it to the police station to hand it in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 03 March, 2010, 06:58:29 pm
Startled the same 3 deer this morning that I did yesterday.
I didn't see the Barn Owl that I did last night though.
Horrendous head wind all the way home.  Great training.

I now have 3 dead badgers on my route.  All three looked great specimens on the way to work.  One had been totally crunched by the time I came home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 04 March, 2010, 06:12:33 am
Stunning sunrise (yesterday) over East London- I even took a detour up a hill just to get a better look.  And the early morning moon has been just amazing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 04 March, 2010, 07:27:23 am
Last night I witness some of London's finest (read worst) driving.  Riding through Harlington at a fair old lick (read ~20mph) a Daewoo ShoeBox started to overtake me, then it swerved left into my path, braked and indicated to turn right.....

By the time it was STARTING to turn right I was already 50 yds ahead of it, having passed it as it was indicating.... GAH!

This morning was better, chilly, a bit of a headwind for part of the way, but nothing dramatic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 04 March, 2010, 07:41:18 am
Quote from: Grub on 03 March, 2010, 06:58:29 pm
Startled the same 3 deer this morning that I did yesterday.
I didn't see the Barn Owl that I did last night though.
Horrendous head wind all the way home.  Great training.

I now have 3 dead badgers on my route.  All three looked great specimens on the way to work.  One had been totally crunched by the time I came home.


Mmmmm..... badger curry.   :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 04 March, 2010, 08:51:39 am
Blimmin' London drivers.  I was in the right hand lane of the New Kent Road coming up to the Elephant RAB, to head round to the lovely bus and bicycle lane up to St G's Circus.  Little blue car behind me has to get past at all costs, so skims my left elbow as I pull out onto the roundabout.  OK, fair enough, I'm sure you're a lot more important than me.

Then I'd just pootled out of the northern end of St G's Circus when, blow me down, the same little blue car, which has had to take the longer way round past St G's Cathedral, is hurtling up behind me and, doing about 40mph at a guess, skims my right elbow at the same time as giving me a delightful "poop poop" on its hooter.

Naturally, I caught up with little blue car by the Old Vic and, all polite like, asked what that was all about.  Window was compliantly wound down, and driver says, accusingly:

"I nearly knocked you off your bike!"

I am speechless.

"There was a bus coming the other way and I had to pull in", she adds, as if that might help matters.

I remain speechless.

"You shouldn't have been in the middle of the road"

I am beginning to think angry thoughts.  Is she going to tell me I don't pay road tax?  Or that I'm not even wearing a helmet? 

But I remember that cycling to work is generally quite pleasant and, although this morning was cold, it was bright and dry and I wouldn't want to spoil it all by getting angry.

And then I get a bit angry.  Frustratingly, I am unable to sustain the anger because the motons were all stuck in a queue and I was free to roll. 

By the time I was on Waterloo Bridge, my head was full of sunny thoughts again, such as "I'm getting to work nice and early, which means I'll be able to waste a bit of time sharing my commuting experiences with the good folk of YACF.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 04 March, 2010, 09:23:51 am
I got fed up with a load of potholes and the "ploughed" feel of a bit of cycle path shortcut I use most days on the way in to work.

As you know I don't approve of cyclepaths in general but shortcuts through the park instead of going up the A38 are worth cutting speed for and dodging the odd pedestrian/ pile of broken bottles is generally worth it

At the end of the park the route cuts through a car park and this is the problem area.
Initially I reported it to "fillthathole" website.  But this resulted in the highways agency saying that "it's not our problem".  I did a bit of trawling for email addresses and reported it directly to the parks dept.
Over the last week or so there have been at least three lots of work done on the holes.

The rough surface and the potholes have only been patched and they need resurfacing..but it is 100% better than it was

A nice email was sent to the parks dept
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MSeries on 04 March, 2010, 09:24:48 am
I fell off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: αdαmsκι on 04 March, 2010, 09:25:30 am
You OK, Martin?

Edit: Missed this :-[. (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=30517.0)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MSeries on 04 March, 2010, 09:26:33 am
Quote from: αdαmsκι on 04 March, 2010, 09:25:30 am
You OK, Martin?
I think so, just bashed about a bit. Bruised, now stiffening up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 04 March, 2010, 09:34:44 am
Last nights checklist before leaving work:

Fill waterbottle - check
Put shirt, kecks and socks into pannier - check
Put mobile, wallet and Oyster card into pannier - check
Keys into zippy pocket in jacket - check

[wavy lines]

15mins into ride home

[/wavy lines]

Reach down and grab a handful of thin air... 3 or 4 more times on the journey, reach down and find that there is still no waterbottle - bugger! Where is it?!

Come in this morning (by train - Red Cross training tonight) to find full waterbottle standing to attention in the middle of my desk. :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Speshact on 04 March, 2010, 06:49:39 pm
Onto the Wellington Arch bit in the middle of Hyde Park Corner following  a cyclist on a Bianchi who's wearing a duffle coat with furry hood off his/her head just where it would obsure looking back; with a helmet dangling from some part of the coat; holding a large cup of coffee; seemingly riding no-handed while fiddling about with coffee. Pretty confident dude.

He/She then proceeds, ignoring the red don't cross toucan light, straight across the traffic setting off round Hyde Park . He/She made it across two of the four lanes of traffic which stopped for the nutter before being blocked by the (quite reasonably) moving traffic. Eventually he/she made it to the traffic island, where he/she waited for the green man before starting to cross the last bit of road...and dropped the coffee cup in the road. Then he/she dismounted picked up the cup and walked across.

Very close to winning a Darwin Award.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 04 March, 2010, 07:49:58 pm
This morning's commute was wonderful, with a stunning red sunrise and some zip in my legs.

Coming home was a miserable slog. I don't really know why.  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 04 March, 2010, 08:17:44 pm
Ditto to the miserable slog.  Long week.  Headwind.  Cold wind.  I even tried to mix up the route a bit but still couldn't really escape it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 04 March, 2010, 08:19:31 pm
First homebound commute with no lights.  Left work at 5.00 and needed sunglasses (which I have) and some sort of peaked cap (which I don't have).

Could have done without the windchill or the headwind mind...

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 04 March, 2010, 09:13:41 pm
I took dearly beloved's bike (a Claud Butler Urban Comfort that fits him - who is a good 6" taller than me)  because the headset had gone all loose and wobbly so my plan was to take it with me after work to the rescue for some assisted fettling.  So much of today's commuting was done whilst pushing.

Once the headset was sorted, we also addressed the issue of the brakes (I must have words about cleaning rims at least once a century - totally trashed blocks!) and then I hammered the seat down as far as it would go and rode it home.  Good lord, front suspension is weird!  And it felt like when you're a little kid and you borrow your mum's/elder sibling's bike and have that 'oh crikey, will my foot reach the floor' wobbly feeling every time you stop.

It was rather nice (in a slightly riding on blancmange way) once I got going, which confirmed that I really need to put Valencia's seat up a bit before I take her out again.  I am also now totally sure that my bike is much nicer than his :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 05 March, 2010, 07:39:14 am
Oh, I forgot to mention a curious incident the other day at the southern end of Waterloo Road.  A pedestrian started to scamper across the road at a pelican crossing when the red man was shining.  A double decker bus was approaching at speed and gave him a blast of the horn.  Pedestrian stumbles and falls and, thank goodness, the bus manages to stop with a couple of feet to spare.  Pedestrian gets to his feet, revealing what may have been his problem: jeans that were so low slung that they (a) had probably prevented him from running without falling and (b) were round his ankles when he stood up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 05 March, 2010, 08:48:03 am
Managed to have an argument with Emily about exactly why I have, yet again, bought a bike that is too large for me :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 05 March, 2010, 09:00:52 am
I overtook another cyclist this morning!
It MUST be spring... :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 05 March, 2010, 09:06:12 am
Quote from: Jacomus on 05 March, 2010, 08:48:03 am
Managed to have an argument with Emily about exactly why I have, yet again, bought a bike that is too large for me :facepalm:

I suggest you invest in a rack. I'm sure Emily would be happy to assist the turning of the winches.

(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_jAr-z0nLqt8/SJ86OKRrF6I/AAAAAAAAA_8/pOBiNMjlQb0/s400/TortureRack.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 March, 2010, 09:58:26 am
Weird thing happened today.  I had a good ride in.  No tailwind, but I still managed to post my first ride this year over 23kph, which is good for me.  My average for the year is still below 20kph, suffering from the heavy weather.

So it was a good ride, despite what I think might be an emerging chest infection.  But I did have a bit of a blip, struggling up - it's embarrassing to relate - Upper Tooting Road, at less than 20kph.  Part way up, I felt a friendly hand on my back, and found I was being pushed by another cyclist.  He just gave me a helpful shove, and then went past.  I couldnt help giggling.  When we stopped at the lights, he pulled down the buff from his face, and smiled. 'It's Friday.' he said, 'We're all struggling.'

He was a tall, thin man, a wee bit older than me, riding a not-new-but-well-kept Specialized Allez.  It may be someone on here, motivated by my yacf jersey.  I don't know.  I can imagine a lot of people would take it the wrong way, or just be so startled that they wobble.  But it was kind and well-received.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: NickM on 05 March, 2010, 10:04:28 am
I've given up using the cycle path through Hyde Park as I'm travelling against the general flow of traffic (bloody cyclists are a bloody menace!) so these days I use South Carriage Drive. That's fine; it takes me where I want to go (towards Hammersmith via Kensington), but it always knackers me out and I don't know why.

I get onto the road from William St/Albert gate and turn left (West). I always try to remind myself not to try and peg it too hard because I know I'm going to get knackered if I do.

Excuses:
1. It's a false flat. No, really, it is. It looks flat, but it goes distinctly uphill and at a tougher gradient than you'd think.
2. There's no shelter from the prevailing easterly tornado (okay, okay, zephyr).
3. I've just pegged it up Sloane St in a bid to outrun a cyclicidal cabbie and so am knackered anyway.
4. On South Carriage Drive there is very little traffic and no traffic lights to slow me down so I am going faster than I normally would anyway ( I like this excuse).
5. The road surface is rubbish and frequently covered in horse sh…
6. I haven't had any breakfast and have simply run out of fuel.

I do always try to pluck up some brio and look a bit manly as I wheeze past the guards outside Hyde Park Barracks, but this is usually the point where I'm feeling it worst. I'd like to be in the drops, but usually I'm sitting up trying to get some air into my lungs.

I guess it's a combination of all those things (plus I'm not as fit as I think), but it hits me harder than I think it's going to every time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 05 March, 2010, 10:16:37 am
Quote from: PaulR on 05 March, 2010, 07:39:14 am
Pedestrian gets to his feet, revealing what may have been his problem: jeans that were so low slung that they (a) had probably prevented him from running without falling and (b) were round his ankles when he stood up.

I always have to resist the urge to point and laugh at those types with their underwear on display. And it's not like I'm some old bat either, it just looks stupid.

Quote from: clarion on 05 March, 2010, 09:58:26 am
I can imagine a lot of people would take it the wrong way, or just be so startled that they wobble.  But it was kind and well-received.

It would have startled the hell out of me, I'd have done a wobble all right! But a nice kind gesture nonetheless.

I thought it was very nice of the cyclist in front to point out particularly nasty potholes to me the other day. I always have a bit of an urge to do this, but any cyclist not used to riding in groups might wonder what the hell I was doing...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wowbagger on 05 March, 2010, 10:24:59 am
On Tuesday I cycled to my school at noonish. Whilst wheeling along Chelmsford Avenue, in Westcliff, I noticed a large number of very deep pot-holes and made a mental note (I often make mental notes but then lose them later) that they really were quite serious and I ought to contact Fill That Hole.

When I returned a little over an hour later, they had been filled in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 March, 2010, 10:27:45 am
Wow, psychic pothole reporting!  Wowbagger, you are astonishing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 05 March, 2010, 10:35:15 am
Yesterday evening, loverly
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4047/4408565884_dfe006333c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/36911087@N05/4408565884/)

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 March, 2010, 10:42:24 am
Crikey, there's some camber on that road! :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 05 March, 2010, 10:49:12 am
My commute in takes me onto the A3 to Clapham for the last leg of the journey, and it is normally very civilized. However around Stockwell tube there are around 2 or 3 buses blocking the bus lane, I swear to God that they are permanently parked there. I obviously signal right to get into the other lane, making sure that I have room and time to splistream into the traffic. Little red astra nearly clips my elbow as he passes me. He then starts to take issue with the blue car in front of him, and then by the time I catch up to the next set of traffic lights he is now having a barney with wvm. Traffic lights flip to green, twat in red car is still arguing, so I shout, very loudly, 'Moooooovvvvvve'. He looks back in his mirror to be faced by the most evillest Paddington bear stare from myself. Apart from that, its was a pleasant ride in this morning  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 05 March, 2010, 11:16:41 am
It's the weather.

So nice to be riding in daylight and without sleeting rain. OK, there was the moment this morn when I thought I had a flat (rear end going squirrelly), then realised it was black ice, but, still . . .
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: longers on 08 March, 2010, 08:02:59 am
Lack of proper hat this morning = very cold ears.

A beautiful morning for it nevertheless, I was trying to time it so I could catch the lights on red and gaze longingly down Longdendale and over to the Snake but missed it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 08 March, 2010, 08:05:48 am
Nice, sunny, cold, relatively fast (considering i was carrying an extra 20kg of stuff today)...


BUT my first ever commuting visitation.  Lucky they visited me about 300 yds from work so I walked the rest and have now fixed it in the warmth and comfort of my office, rather than at the road side :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 March, 2010, 09:18:39 am
Cold, sunny, cold, fast, cold, fun and cold.

Except for falling off on the ice, it was a really good ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 08 March, 2010, 12:03:21 pm
Air temp 19*c.no wind.sunny.no traffic.......no problem ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hulver on 08 March, 2010, 12:37:14 pm
My face nearly froze off this morning. I had to stop to adjust my buff, which I was glad of. I nearly didn't wear it today.

I'm not confident enough on fixed to adjust it while I'm moving.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 08 March, 2010, 01:15:21 pm
Quote from: jogler on 08 March, 2010, 12:03:21 pm
Air temp 19*c.no wind.sunny.no traffic.......no problem ;)

And * means?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 08 March, 2010, 01:20:27 pm
it means I can't find a little"0" to represent degrees. IT philistine you see :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: αdαmsκι on 08 March, 2010, 01:22:31 pm
I often cut & paste symbols I need from wikipedia: Degree symbol - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Degree_symbol)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 08 March, 2010, 01:23:29 pm
19[sup]o[/sup] comes out as 19o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris N on 08 March, 2010, 01:24:43 pm
Alt + 0186 [on the keypad, Windows] = º
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 08 March, 2010, 01:26:33 pm
  :thumbsup: Greenbank & Chris n
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris N on 08 March, 2010, 01:31:16 pm
It was about -4º when I left home today, but a beautifully crisp, clear morning.  Could see all the way to Cannock Chase and the power station at Rugely - steam from the cooling towers heading straight up.  Bit icy in places, but ok.

Lovely to be out on the bike too, first ride for a week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 08 March, 2010, 02:30:01 pm
Quote from: chris n on 08 March, 2010, 01:31:16 pm
It was about -4º when I left home today,

Fahrenheit or Celcius?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 08 March, 2010, 02:35:59 pm
It was "ski mitts with liners and a scarf and a hat" cold this morning
That's Celsius

In other news I took the easier route to work as my knees preferred this after 250km yesterday
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 08 March, 2010, 02:52:21 pm
Quote from: chris n on 08 March, 2010, 01:24:43 pm
Alt + 0186 [on the keypad, Windows] = º

I always use Alt + 0176...
°

I thought Alt + 0176 was the degree sign and Alt + 0186 was an exponent of 0 BICBW.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: αdαmsκι on 08 March, 2010, 02:58:21 pm
Alt + 0186 gives me º, which wikipedia says is an ordinal indicator (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C2%BA).

Alt + 0176 gives me °, which wikipedia says in the degree symbol (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C2%B0).

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris N on 08 March, 2010, 02:59:26 pm
Quote from: alexb on 08 March, 2010, 02:30:01 pm
Fahrenheit or Celcius?

Kelvin, I think.  It was really frickin' cold.

Quote from: hellymedic on 08 March, 2010, 02:52:21 pm
I thought Alt + 0176 was the degree sign and Alt + 0186 was an exponent of 0 BICBW.

You're right Helly - Alt + 0186 is a Masculine Ordinal Indicator, apparently.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 08 March, 2010, 03:36:24 pm
Use a website like:

The HTML Document Character Set (http://www.natural-innovations.com/wa/doc-charset.html) or

HTML Codes - Characters and symbols (http://www.ascii.cl/htmlcodes.htm)

...and just cut and paste the relevant character.  With things like 2/3 you have to bugger about with the [sup] and [sub] tags, since there is no HTML symbol for this.  There are symbols for ¼, ¾ & ½.


Back OT, I didn't think it was particularly cold today.  I didn't wear anything different or exceptional from what I've been wearing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 08 March, 2010, 04:54:46 pm
By 'eck it was nippy first thing, quite bracing though.  I nearly didn't bother with the extra layer, glad I did.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 08 March, 2010, 07:06:18 pm
Today I saw an oxblood leather sofa sitting in the burn.  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 08 March, 2010, 07:54:18 pm
Fast commute in on the TCR with that botersome Easterly behind me.
Twas not so fast on the way home but still ace.
Witnessed and accident between car rear ending motorcycle on the way home.  Did my eye witness bit and exchanged names and details and explained to them the process.  No injuries so all fine and dandy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moloko on 08 March, 2010, 08:18:17 pm
So that's why motorists think that cyclists jump red lights?

I came to a large 3 lane traffic roundabout set of lights that were clearly on green (all four of them)
and proceeded through them in the outside lane.

While at the same time turning to and beckoned  the car driver in the middle lane
that had now pulled up to come on through with me.  

He then realised they were green and not red and then easily proceeded through.  The dopey twat.   ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 08 March, 2010, 10:03:40 pm
I was glad the wind was behind me on the way home, since I've clearly still got a bit of whatever lurgy stopped me commuting by bike last week. :-\

The downside is that I know tomorrow morning, like today, is going to be a bit of a slog.  Ho hum, at least in the evenings when I feel a lot less fresh I'll get a boost from the weather!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pippa on 08 March, 2010, 10:19:25 pm
First commute in this year that was not in pitch black  :thumbsup:

I may have been on holibobs last week, but when I got back on the bike this morning I realised how much I had missed it. So much so I was decidely chirpy when I got to work this morning  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 March, 2010, 10:22:04 pm
As I rode out of Balham on the way home, I passed a van with the windows open, with the passenger singing with enthusiasm but no tune.  He caught me looking, shut up and blushed.

'Enjoy it!' I said, and we laughed together, then he started singing again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: αdαmsκι on 09 March, 2010, 09:25:00 am
This morning was mainly slooooow because of the head wind and I was also feeling lethargic after rock climbing last night. However, it was 4.5 °C when I left home this morning, so positively balmy after yesterday when it was 0 °C. Being able to cycle without wearning my my overshoes or Pertex windproof is nice :thumbsup:. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 09 March, 2010, 09:26:29 am
Flat tyre before I set off. As I didn't have a spare tube, I thought I'd better fix it at home before leaving. Good thing I did, it was a 2nd hole I'd missed last time.

The zip pull was broken on my overshoe. Then the zip pull broke on the other one.

My cycle computer has stopped working.

The freehub is still faulty.

erm, anything else going to go wrong?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MSeries on 09 March, 2010, 09:31:14 am
I got the bus. Still not able to ride after my crash on Thursday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 09 March, 2010, 09:32:07 am
Last night I was on a flyer, 26:21 for the 7.7 miles, this morning a good deal slower, 34:30 for the same distance.

Could have something to do with the hangover I had this morning....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 09 March, 2010, 09:43:01 am
Quote from: MSeries on 09 March, 2010, 09:31:14 am
I got the bus. Still not able to ride after my crash on Thursday.

:/

The good news is that by the time you are back on your bike, the days of worrying about black ice will be over.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris N on 09 March, 2010, 09:46:18 am
I drafted a crop sprayer for four or five miles this morning at 20 mph. Didn't smell or sound very nice, but it did wonders for my average speed!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 March, 2010, 09:46:38 am
I forgot to look out for the ice I slipped on yesterday.  Guess it was gone, then ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 09 March, 2010, 09:57:20 am
No ice today!  :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

I left the clearing and was pootling through the woods at 6.30am, half asleep dodging the enormous holes in the track when suddenly something fell from the sky. A squirrel! It fell at least 20ft from the overhanging trees to less than a foot from my front wheel and I laughed out loud at it. Would've been nasty if it had hit me eh?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 09 March, 2010, 10:08:28 am
No ice today.  No best bike either as that obviously picked up a small puncture yesterday and it slow released overnight.   Cue a quick lights change and Hope came out.
It was like getting back into a comfy armchair.  :thumbsup:

Two new dead badgers on route to work.  The first one was gimacing in death just off the nearside and made me wonder how easy it would be to extract some of it's teeth.  I was thinking about a badger tooth necklace  ::-)

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MSeries on 09 March, 2010, 10:11:42 am
Quote from: Grub on 09 March, 2010, 10:08:28 am
No ice today.  No best bike either as that obviously picked up a small puncture yesterday and it slow released overnight.   Cue a quick lights change and Hope came out.
It was like getting back into a comfy armchair.  :thumbsup:

Is your best bike not comfortable then ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 09 March, 2010, 10:13:32 am
Yes, very but in a more racy way.  Different material, different riding position ( lower ) and much stiffer so more responsive.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 09 March, 2010, 10:13:41 am
Quote from: Grub on 09 March, 2010, 10:08:28 am
No ice today.  No best bike either as that obviously picked up a small puncture yesterday and it slow released overnight.   Cue a quick lights change and Hope came out.
It was like getting back into a comfy armchair.  :thumbsup:

Two new dead badgers on route to work.  The first one was gimacing in death just off the nearside and made me wonder how easy it would be to extract some of it's teeth.  I was thinking about a badger tooth necklace  ::-)



Make use of the badgers that you see... (http://living.scotsman.com/features/Sauted-badger.3276255.jp)  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 09 March, 2010, 10:15:55 am
Quote from: chris n on 09 March, 2010, 09:46:18 am
I drafted a crop sprayer for four or five miles this morning at 20 mph. Didn't smell or sound very nice...

I wouldn't worry, the driver probably didn't even notice you.

Back commuting yesterday and today after driving last week.  Like Rafa Benitez, I have a bad side.  Still not right but getting slowly better and the drugs work.  Yesterday was hard, but this morning was springier - both me and the weather.  Still v. cold, though.

2 dead foxes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 09 March, 2010, 10:27:49 am
Quote from: Nuncio on 09 March, 2010, 10:15:55 am
2 dead foxes.
Quote from: Grub on 09 March, 2010, 10:08:28 am
Two new dead badgers on route to work.

My roadkill tally: 4 rats
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 09 March, 2010, 10:38:56 am
A tad warmer this morning, which is welcome
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 09 March, 2010, 12:22:56 pm
A dead badger at the top of Coombe Lane hill. This in deepest suburbia.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ed_o_brain on 09 March, 2010, 01:13:57 pm
Off work sick with dreaded lurgy. We all have it. It's mucus central at the brain HQ.


Very little cycle commuting last week either, due to other commitments. So defo not getting the mileage I expected for the first quarter of this year.


It also means I'm probably not going to get a return on my investment in Sno tyres this year. I won't mention the new disc brakes, but from what my nephew in the trade says, the Avid squidgys would have given out on me sooner or later anyway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 09 March, 2010, 08:10:36 pm
Blow me down!
I am STILL passing patches of snow on the way home in the evenings...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 09 March, 2010, 10:19:40 pm
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v379/Flossiesdoll/Random%20stuff/sofaintheburn.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 09 March, 2010, 10:40:07 pm
That is quality  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 09 March, 2010, 11:02:13 pm
What I like best about it is that the cushions have happy faces in them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 10 March, 2010, 07:39:48 am
Today's commute was completely unremarkable.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 10 March, 2010, 08:51:06 am
Horrible headwind - just light enough to make me think that I can overcome it but constant and strong enough to sap me of energy.

Still, I got to ride my bicycle so :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 March, 2010, 09:50:26 am
The wind was awful, but a whole series of bumbrained antics by motor pilots of various forms meant there were standing queues of motor traffic from Tooting to Southwark (or maybe beyond - I don't know).  A pleasingly large number of cyclists flowed around, through & past them.  I got to work in a normal sort of time.  I would estimate that the average delay to a car driver would be in excess of 30mins.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 10 March, 2010, 10:36:13 am
Quote from: jogler on 08 March, 2010, 12:03:21 pm
Air temp 19*c.no wind.sunny.no traffic.......no problem ;)

same again :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 10 March, 2010, 11:17:35 am
Tailwind to work.  Stopped to stroke the stomach of a badger on the way in.  Photo when I get home.

Picked up a JCB at the head of a long line of traffic in the centre of Devizes.  Tanked it passed and then took advantage of the rolling road block behind so straight lined for about a mile  ;D

At the top of Caen Hill I saw my favourite quary in the distance - a milk float.  It was just turning into Poulshot.

Now on the flat with a strong tailwind I was trying hard to catch it on the flat.  It was acting like a metal kite and was doing 22.2 mph.  I am sure the chap was doing his best to not get overtaken as it was the normal miserable milkman of a driver.  A smile would crack his facade.

As I tucked in behind it for a brief recovery I saw I was now doing 22.9 mph.  I then took a deep breath and really pushed down and came out and around.  I am now doing 23.7 mph and all I thought about now was putting some distance between us so mad Mr Milkman could not get the satisfaction of overtaking me.

Job done.  When I get to work I averaged 19.3 mph for the 24.3 miles  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moloko on 10 March, 2010, 11:22:17 am
Quote from: Grub on 10 March, 2010, 11:17:35 am
Stopped to stroke the stomach of a badger on the way in.  Photo when I get home.


Had it succumbed to the traffic in the night?   :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 10 March, 2010, 11:42:08 am
Quote from: Grub on 10 March, 2010, 11:17:35 am
Stopped to stroke the stomach of a badger on the way in.  Photo when I get home.
If that's a euphemism, I don't want to see the photo... :hand:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 10 March, 2010, 12:09:29 pm
Quote from: clarion on 10 March, 2010, 09:50:26 am
The wind was awful, but a whole series of bumbrained antics by motor pilots of various forms meant there were standing queues of motor traffic from Tooting to Southwark (or maybe beyond - I don't know).  A pleasingly large number of cyclists flowed around, through & past them.  I got to work in a normal sort of time.  I would estimate that the average delay to a car driver would be in excess of 30mins.

Yep, the A202 was terrible this morning, worst I have ever seen it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 10 March, 2010, 12:54:04 pm
Quote from: Dicky Mo on 10 March, 2010, 11:22:17 am
Quote from: Grub on 10 March, 2010, 11:17:35 am
Stopped to stroke the stomach of a badger on the way in.  Photo when I get home.


Had it succumbed to the traffic in the night?   :(

It is the one that was grinning at me yesterday  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 10 March, 2010, 01:27:49 pm
Quote from: Grub on 10 March, 2010, 12:54:04 pm
Quote from: Dicky Mo on 10 March, 2010, 11:22:17 am
Quote from: Grub on 10 March, 2010, 11:17:35 am
Stopped to stroke the stomach of a badger on the way in.  Photo when I get home.


Had it succumbed to the traffic in the night?   :(

It is the one that was grinning at me yesterday  ::-)

You are Ron Davies AICMFP!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 10 March, 2010, 08:37:32 pm
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e81/GruuB/10-03-10_0826.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: αdαmsκι on 10 March, 2010, 08:48:48 pm
Badger badger badger ;D. (http://www.badgerbadgerbadger.com/)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 10 March, 2010, 09:07:21 pm
Quote from: Grub on 10 March, 2010, 08:37:32 pm
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e81/GruuB/10-03-10_0826.jpg)

That'd make a good pecil case.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 10 March, 2010, 09:21:21 pm
and a warm hat
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 11 March, 2010, 07:38:01 am
Nice trip in.  Started with the merest sliver of a crescent moon in a pale blue sky,  lovely sunrise.  Cool but invigorating rather than debilitating, no breeze to speak of and cute (live) fauna into the bargain; barn owl, woodpecker making a racket at Quenington, pheasants galore, bunnies and buzzards. Oh and lots of yellowhammers and a few newish lambs at Poulton Fields.

Then I got here. *sigh* :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 11 March, 2010, 07:45:00 am
A relatively quiet ride in today, apart from a number 90 bus emulating the Imperial Coaches move of starting to pass me then cut me up.

LK08FNF, there is an email on it's way to your boss today....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 11 March, 2010, 08:53:34 am
For the first time in 9 years, I actually had a companion for over 1/2 the way in this morning going at the same speed as I! He also turned out to be a colleague at work.
A very pleasant experience and about 2 minutes faster.
Things must be improving - 9 years ago, I could commute for 6 months and see no other cyclist at all.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 March, 2010, 10:00:42 am
Good ride, but it seemed uphill all the way to Southwark, with a cold and relentless headwind.  But, despite that, and a number of morons, I got a swift ride in. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Fluffy on 11 March, 2010, 10:25:03 am
A pretty uneventful ride yesterday and today, yesterday was kinda reassuring as I let a car pass me on a narrow road and he flashed his hazards in thanks, made me feel warm and fuzzy inside, makes a big change. Same happened today when I let a bus pass me just before the bus/taxi/cycle lane, he flashed me also. This sunny weather makes cycling more satisfying and motorists seem happier too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 11 March, 2010, 11:03:28 am
Quote from: clarion on 11 March, 2010, 10:00:42 am
Good ride, but it seemed uphill all the way to Southwark, with a cold and relentless headwind.  But, despite that, and a number of morons, I got a swift ride in. :)

My headwind was such that at one point I stopped to check my tyres were still inflated! But I'm extra paranoid since my inner tube escaping and nearly killing me...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 11 March, 2010, 08:28:52 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 11 March, 2010, 07:38:01 am
Nice trip in.  Started with the merest sliver of a crescent moon in a pale blue sky,  lovely sunrise.  Cool but invigorating rather than debilitating, no breeze to speak of and cute (live) fauna into the bargain; barn owl, woodpecker making a racket at Quenington, pheasants galore, bunnies and buzzards. Oh and lots of yellowhammers and a few newish lambs at Poulton Fields.

Then I got here. *sigh* :)

I know what you mean. If I arise from the pit early enough, I'll go the very slightly longer way along the stream and lake. I'll see ducks, bunnies, geese, some other water birds (?) and a heron if I'm lucky. Getting to work is the downside, but I do feel happier at work for a while after a good ride in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul D on 11 March, 2010, 08:35:59 pm
I had some naive idea that ambulance drivers were more considerate than others, maybe because they watch people being scraped up off the tarmac as part of the job.

Today's ride home has changed my opinion.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 12 March, 2010, 12:20:26 am
Got beeped on the way to work for, er, nothing, really.  Riding down the road at 20mph, secondary pos., car coming the other way car behind beeps (slightly too long to be "I'm here") then overtakes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 March, 2010, 09:31:20 am
Quote from: Paul D on 11 March, 2010, 08:35:59 pm
I had some naive idea that ambulance drivers were more considerate than others, maybe because they watch people being scraped up off the tarmac as part of the job.

Today's ride home has changed my opinion.

G4S?  I've had problems with their drivers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 March, 2010, 09:47:35 am
Splendid ride.  Felt like a tailwind, but it really wasn't.  Nice contrast to the struggles of the last two mornings, where I've managed a decent speed, but into a headwind.  I managed an average of 23.3kph, which is very fast for me.  I was just thinking as I was dragging myself up the slight rise of our road that it's the mornings where I start with my legs feeling rubbish that I get the best rides.  Odd that. 

By the time I reached Mitcham Common, roadworks notwithstandng, I glanced down at my Babbage Engine, and saw it read 24.1kph and the pacer arrow was pointing downwards.  I lost a little pace going through Tooting (I always do), especially because I saw a cyclist knocked off and stopped to prevent a punch up, but, by the time I was in Clapham, I was moving well.  It felt really good.  Shame I have to do some work now.  And that I'm not riding home tonight (but that's for a very good reason ;) )
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 12 March, 2010, 09:48:39 am
Quote from: clarion on 12 March, 2010, 09:31:20 am
Quote from: Paul D on 11 March, 2010, 08:35:59 pm
I had some naive idea that ambulance drivers were more considerate than others, maybe because they watch people being scraped up off the tarmac as part of the job.

Today's ride home has changed my opinion.

G4S?  I've had problems with their drivers.

Like this one:   ;D


      YouTube
            - Group 4 Securicor armoured van apparently jumps red light. KE55 EFF
    (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vuVk4NkeeLM)

I love the comments....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 March, 2010, 10:53:32 am
So, this morning, I was riding into Tooting, coming down from the bridge at the station, when I saw a cyclist coming the other way in the bus lane just past the Police Station.

Coming past Seely Road, he was struck by a van driving out without looking.  As I pulled up, the cyclist had opened the van door, and was hitting the driver with his bike.  OK, the pillock deserved it, but I felt that it probably wasn't appropriate.  So I calmed things down by asking if the cyclist was OK, and then giving his bike a quick glance, noticing his bars were askew, but it seemed generally OK.

The bus driver who had witnessed the incident obviously felt it was nothing to do with him, as he pulled right round me to progress towards Mitcham. ::-)

The cyclist went on, but I had a few words (all suitable pre-watershed) for the driver before I left it.  Though I suspect his English was almost non-existent.

Could I have reported it, given we were almost right outside Tooting Police Station?  really, what would have been the point?  I would have made myself late for work and got annoyed (yet again) by tossers who don't give a fuck.  Besides, I was riding quite well, so I let my vanity take over and I set off again, determined to report the van on the MPS website.

Half an hour of exhilirating riding later, I'd forgotten the Reg number.  I'd even forgotten the company name on the side of the van. :-[

Not fulfilling my duty as an active citizen, really, though I console myself with having stopped a fight and checked the victim was OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moloko on 14 March, 2010, 09:27:19 pm
Quote from: Grub on 10 March, 2010, 08:37:32 pm
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e81/GruuB/10-03-10_0826.jpg)

Crocodile Grubdee: "Well, you can live on it, but it taste like shit."
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 15 March, 2010, 10:19:52 am
At the weekend the summer commute bike was fettled.  Various parts were checked and lubricated.  The tyres were pumped up.  The little saddle pack was fitted.

But on monday morning there was freezing fog first thing so I took the winter bike with full lights.  It really was freezing.  I stopped to try and work out an annoying rattle from the front mudguard and noticed ice forming on the V brakes

There was fog in the valley I live in but it was clear and sunny at the top of the Blackdown Hills and over in Taunton

Maybe tomorrow...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 15 March, 2010, 01:06:10 pm
I got blown in... and the sun is shining... and all is well with the world...
 :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 15 March, 2010, 02:17:06 pm
First day without tights and a jacket. Apologies to anyone who saw my white legs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 15 March, 2010, 05:28:44 pm
Quote from: clarion on 12 March, 2010, 10:53:32 am
So, this morning, I was riding into Tooting, coming down from the bridge at the station, when I saw a cyclist coming the other way in the bus lane just past the Police Station.

Coming past Seely Road, he was struck by a van driving out without looking.  As I pulled up, the cyclist had opened the van door, and was hitting the driver with his bike.  OK, the pillock deserved it, but I felt that it probably wasn't appropriate.  So I calmed things down by asking if the cyclist was OK, and then giving his bike a quick glance, noticing his bars were askew, but it seemed generally OK.

The bus driver who had witnessed the incident obviously felt it was nothing to do with him, as he pulled right round me to progress towards Mitcham. ::-)

The cyclist went on, but I had a few words (all suitable pre-watershed) for the driver before I left it.  Though I suspect his English was almost non-existent.

Could I have reported it, given we were almost right outside Tooting Police Station?  really, what would have been the point?  I would have made myself late for work and got annoyed (yet again) by tossers who don't give a fuck.  Besides, I was riding quite well, so I let my vanity take over and I set off again, determined to report the van on the MPS website.

Half an hour of exhilirating riding later, I'd forgotten the Reg number.  I'd even forgotten the company name on the side of the van. :-[

Not fulfilling my duty as an active citizen, really, though I console myself with having stopped a fight and checked the victim was OK.

I carry a marker pen in the side pocket of my Carradice. It will write on anything, even in pouring rain. A quick scribble on my wrist or the back of my hand will last for hours, or wash off in seconds with dilute alcohol. Worth thinking about for the future?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonBuoy on 15 March, 2010, 06:14:33 pm
I was flagged down by a motorist on this morning's commute.  I was instantly on the defensive and wondered whether I had cut him up or upset him in some other way.  It turned out that he had broken down and wanted to borrow a phone.

Five phone calls later and he had still not managed to get anyone to answer.  One of the unanswered calls was because he had accidentally dialled his own mobile that was still at home.  At that point he gave up and started walking.

I had been a bit late setting off and the stiff headwind wasn't helping with my attempts to get to work on time.  I now had the perfect excuse for being late and just cruised in. 8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 16 March, 2010, 07:54:40 am
Mixed bag this morning.

On the plus side... beautiful sunshine, first skylark of the year, barn owl, yellowhammers, pheasants, rabbits, magpies, blackbirds and more LBJs than you can shake a stick at.

However... I'm only just getting feeling back in my thumbs and  what the hell have they been spreading on the fields this year? It is positively emetic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 March, 2010, 09:18:34 am
First ride of the summer! :thumbsup:

Sunshine, dry roads, lots of cyclists. 

Very fast (for me) - 23.3kph average, and 53 mins door to door.  I spent a lot of time riding faster than 30kph, which hasn't been happening for months.

I can still feel it in my legs nearly 50mins after I stopped.

Yes, there were complete imbeciles behind steering wheels as usual, but they're going to get themselves killed or maimed soon anyway.  I just don't want to be part of their 'accident'.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 16 March, 2010, 09:31:40 am
Quote from: clarion on 16 March, 2010, 09:18:34 am
First ride of the summer! :thumbsup:

Sadly it's still winter for at least another 4.3 days.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 March, 2010, 09:34:05 am
Well, we can have summer rides whenever we like ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 16 March, 2010, 09:34:42 am
I had a lovely ride in until someone behind failed to register that I was stopping for a Zebra crossing in time to unclip and crashed into me, knocking me over. Ow :(. Still it was sunny, quite fast and there were LOTS of cyclists :D.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 March, 2010, 09:35:31 am
>:(  You OK, flower?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 16 March, 2010, 10:06:17 am
Last night I had a run in with a bus

I was coming out of Nicholasheign on a rural road.  Narrow-ish.  I was in primary and about to turn left.  Then the number 20 bus barged past.  I had to brake and steer right in to the side and it went past with about a foot to spare.
The road was much wider 50 metres down the lane.
The bus was doing a classic "I'm bigger than you get the fuck out of the way" move

I don't normally get cross at badly behaved traffic but...

As I said I was about to turn left.  Onto a short cut.  So I raced up the stoney back lane.  I could see the bus on the parallel road ( it turned left further down )  The bus beat me to the next junction but I kept up a good speed and it wasn't gaining much of a lead.  Then the bus had to stop on a narrow sharp corner.  There were two cars coming the other way.  I got right up to the buses bumper. 
Then me and the bus went down the hill into Culmstock.  I knew there was a bus stop in Culmstock.  The bus got ahead and stopped for passengers.  I passed the bus on the right intending to have a word with the driver.  But before I could do that the bus started indicating out.  So I overtook.  In Culmstock me and the bus go different ways

In future I won't ride in primary when I see a bus on that road.  I will ride in the middle of the road so there is no chance of an attempted squeeze past.  Bus drivers cannot be trusted to DTRT
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 16 March, 2010, 10:16:43 am
Oooh bummer Butterfly and vorsprung.

Vorsprung, I hope you got the reg and complained? 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 16 March, 2010, 11:45:40 am
I haven’t had one for ages and ages, and then on the commute today: 
The most full on, perfect and spectacular clipless moment ever. 
Maximum embarrassment factors.  In two lanes of crawling traffic, over I go.
Lots of spectators? – Check
People actually getting out of cars to ask if I’m OK? – Check
Blood? – Check.

The only thing that stopped this one being a perfect ten was the absence of a bus stop full of jeering school kids.

Bugger.  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 March, 2010, 11:53:07 am
Oh eck, Basil. 

Is the bike OK? ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 16 March, 2010, 12:08:27 pm
Quote from: clarion on 16 March, 2010, 11:53:07 am
Oh eck, Basil. 

Is the bike OK? ;)

Yeah, I broke its fall with knee skin.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 March, 2010, 12:12:16 pm
That's OK then. ;)

You've lost weight to the tune of a bit of skin, then?  Hope it heals quickly.  The embarrassment probably never will :[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 16 March, 2010, 12:13:56 pm
Quote from: clarion on 12 March, 2010, 09:31:20 am
Quote from: Paul D on 11 March, 2010, 08:35:59 pm
I had some naive idea that ambulance drivers were more considerate than others, maybe because they watch people being scraped up off the tarmac as part of the job.

Today's ride home has changed my opinion.

G4S?  I've had problems with their drivers.

It was a privated Patient Transport Service driver that hit me.  As a result of his behaviour, and a number of other complaints, the PTS provider lost its contract for that trust.

If it's a private PTS provider, complain to the contracting trust (should be written on the side of the vehicle).

If it's a proper ambulance, then complain to the the relevant Ambulance Service trust.  My experience is that they take complaints from vulnerable road users very seriously.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 16 March, 2010, 12:30:39 pm
Actually, I've been thinking about this.

Quote from: Basil on 16 March, 2010, 11:45:40 am
People actually getting out of cars to ask if I’m OK? – Check

Are people more likely to show friendly concern only when an "off" is obviously caused by a cyclist's own numptiness?
Certainly different to when I was sitting in the road after a high speed (downhill) left hook.  On that occasion I was hooted at for reclining in the road.  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 March, 2010, 12:35:40 pm
I think so yes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moloko on 16 March, 2010, 12:36:21 pm
Worth £250 if you can get it on video.   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 16 March, 2010, 12:39:45 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 16 March, 2010, 10:16:43 am
Oooh bummer Butterfly and vorsprung.

Vorsprung, I hope you got the reg and complained? 

No, i was too steamed up and pumped at catching the bus.  After I overtook it I couldn't be bothered stopping and trying to memorize it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 16 March, 2010, 06:26:55 pm
The sofa is gone from the burn, but the path is strewn with dead Christmas trees. Well, there was only one, and I moved it. But still.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 March, 2010, 09:55:19 am
Quote from: clarion on 16 March, 2010, 09:18:34 am
First ride of the summer! :thumbsup:

Sunshine, dry roads, lots of cyclists. 

Very fast (for me) - 23.3kph average, and 53 mins door to door.  I spent a lot of time riding faster than 30kph, which hasn't been happening for months.

I can still feel it in my legs nearly 50mins after I stopped.

Yes, there were complete imbeciles behind steering wheels as usual, but they're going to get themselves killed or maimed soon anyway.  I just don't want to be part of their 'accident'.


Second summer ride!  24.8kph average and 51mins door to door. Riding bicycles is fun :thumbsup:

I wonder what I could manage if I wasn't riding a tourer with full racks?*




* Experience shows I do about the same times, whether on my tourer, my fixed or my road bike.  This morning, I wasn't carrying a lock, as I'd loaned that to Superstoker, and had a 6mph tailwind[/url]
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MSeries on 17 March, 2010, 10:41:47 am
Quote from: Basil on 16 March, 2010, 12:30:39 pm
Actually, I've been thinking about this.

Quote from: Basil on 16 March, 2010, 11:45:40 am
People actually getting out of cars to ask if I’m OK? – Check

Are people more likely to show friendly concern only when an "off" is obviously caused by a cyclist's own numptiness?


IME no. Both of my last two crashes have been skids, no one else involved. Both times following motorists stopped and asked if I was OK. My BOG crash in 07, a young chap took my mate and our two bikes to his friends house where he left them before delivering my mate to hospital where the ambulance took me. Immediately after my last crash, the third motorist to ask if I was OK offered me a lift.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 17 March, 2010, 11:57:00 am
It was a nice commute for me, slightly marred by a couple of events.

At this (http://maps.google.co.uk/?ie=UTF8&ll=51.430058,-0.13499&spn=0.001162,0.002411&z=19) junction, another cyclist shouted at a car driver for being in the advanced stop area (actually he was well over the more advanced stop line as well).  This caused him to turn into the classic apoplectic, "Come here and say that" raving driver.  I might have had some more sympathy for the cyclist, except that he was cycling across the pedestrian crossing part of the junction, and as guilty of breaking the law as the driver. :-\  Of course the driver continued to shout out the window, even when the lights had turned green, until the drivers behind him started using their horns.

Later on, crossing Clapham Common, I almost got hit by another cyclist who was so engrossed in his mobile phone, that he was making no effort to actually watch where he was going.  When I shouted out something like "Careful!" he almost came off, with a very alarming wobble and apologetic "Sorry".  If it's that important, why not stop and use the phone?  It wasn't as though he was belting across town to a meeting, he was bimbling across Clapham Common in jeans and t-shirt.  Stopping on the cycle path wouldn't have blocked anyone, and would have been a lot safer than the erratic wobble back and forth across the path.  This wasn't your typical teenager with a mobile phone stuck to the side of their head, this was a late 40s, early 50s bloke on a reasonable looking dropped handlebar bike.

All that aside, the weather was very pleasant this morning.  Mild and dry, with little wind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 17 March, 2010, 11:59:13 am
Nice commute in this morning, despite an alarming rise in the number of frog corpses...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moloko on 17 March, 2010, 12:00:35 pm
Quote from: Regulator (a.k.a. DUG) on 17 March, 2010, 11:59:13 am
Nice commute in this morning, despite an alarming rise in the number of frog corpses...

Agincourt?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 17 March, 2010, 01:17:22 pm
Quote from: Dicky Mo on 17 March, 2010, 12:00:35 pm
Quote from: Regulator (a.k.a. DUG) on 17 March, 2010, 11:59:13 am
Nice commute in this morning, despite an alarming rise in the number of frog corpses...

Agincourt?

PMSL
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 March, 2010, 01:20:53 pm
More likely Cressy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 17 March, 2010, 02:37:55 pm
My first ever train assisted folder commute today :D. It was lovely, but I don't fancy carrying the Dahon down station steps regularly. The ticket guard at the staion was mightily impressed though 'A bike in a bag, I've never seen anything like it - that's amazing!' :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moloko on 17 March, 2010, 02:40:46 pm
Quote from: Butterfly on 17 March, 2010, 02:37:55 pm
My first ever train assisted folder commute today :D. It was lovely, but I don't fancy carrying the Dahon down station steps regularly. The ticket guard at the staion was mightily impressed though 'A bike in a bag, I've never seen anything like it - that's amazing!' :D

Long may it stay that way.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 March, 2010, 02:41:11 pm
:thumbsup: Best to plan your stations carefully for flat ones, eh? :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 17 March, 2010, 02:42:52 pm
Quote from: clarion on 17 March, 2010, 02:41:11 pm
:thumbsup: Best to plan your stations carefully for flat ones, eh? :)
If you could just have a word with Southern then - it's easier said than done ;D.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 March, 2010, 02:48:03 pm
I'm sure they'd be happy to co-operate.  You know their customer service policy - Nothing's too much trouble (except running trains on time, or at all, or informing passengers, or keeping their stations up to date).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 17 March, 2010, 08:41:24 pm
The Christmas tree I threw across the park last night was this evening upright by the side of the path. I really hope someone put it there and it's not that it's come alive. And there was a lone bagpiper piping at the bottom of the tunnel.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 17 March, 2010, 10:05:46 pm
I had a lovely commute today.  Around 10 miles round trip, nice weather, reasonably nice routes, sensible dog-walkers bringing their dogs to heel when they saw me coming on the shared use path, bit if pleasant country lane, most of the pot holes have been temporarily patched and I spotted the remainder in plenty of time, bike ran really sweetly and (with the exception on a knobinnavan who tried to reverse out over me) lots of smily happy people in steel boxes who mostly gave me space.  I even got a few 'thank you' waves; one was when I indicated really early so that the person in the car knew I was turning left and they could get out of the side street - it was nice to see a driver giving someone on a bike a big grin and a thumbs up.  I even had a reasonably productive day at work too!  I need to ride my bike more - it makes for a much happier CrinklyLion.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 17 March, 2010, 10:40:40 pm
A spoke broke on the way in. The cones unwound themselves, despite tightening to within a whisker of thread-shearing (maybe the bent axle has something do with it?).

So I road home very gently.  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 17 March, 2010, 11:07:00 pm
Side-road entering from the left, about 4 car-lengths back from a set of traffic lights.  3rd vehicle back in queue at lights is a bus.  Cars turning right out of side road cannot look to their left, as all they can see is the back of the bus.

So I stopped just before the side-road junction, where I could see the (lack of) traffic hidden by the bus, and waved 1 car into, and about 5 cars out of, the side road while the lights were still red.  I got one or two thank-you waves.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 18 March, 2010, 06:32:20 am
I don't think I'll be going home via the park again. 

Despite the signs clearly stating that the paths are for shared use and would everyone please be nice the twuntery, mostly from dog walkers, is too much.  A couple of times I've actualy come to a complete stop to see if they'd take the hint.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steve GT on 18 March, 2010, 07:16:10 am
After 2 months of commuting in sub zero temperatures, last nights ride back to the apartment with the temperature at +3c felt almost tropical!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 18 March, 2010, 08:27:59 am
Quote from: Regulator (a.k.a. DUG) on 17 March, 2010, 11:59:13 am
Nice commute in this morning, despite an alarming rise in the number of frog corpses...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 18 March, 2010, 09:15:36 am
Taxi drivers being very nice at the moment; pulling over so I can filter down the middle easily, and an oncoming one stopping and giving way to me when there wasn't enough room due to parked cars. They got a smile and a wave. Must be the weather.

It just about cancels out the incident that had me chasing the bus driver down, placing myself and the bike in front on the bus and kindly informing him (albeit in a loud screeching tone - those who have been offroading with me will know it) exactly why what he had done was wrong while he tried to pretend I wasn't there. But I'm trying not to rant about that any more, because most bus drivers are ok on my route.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 March, 2010, 09:40:12 am
I really enjoyed my ride in this morning.  Fabulous.  Even the numpties and the potholes seemed insignificant compared to the joy of just riding.

Riding home last night was fun, too.  I didn't go directly - we went to a party with the nieces & nephews & Superstoker & Our Kid of course.  Then three of us (Our Kid remains, I'm sad to say, avelopic :( ) rode to Balham station to get a train home.  Superstoker's enjoying his riding a lot at the moment, and it's really good riding through the dark, quiet backstreets in the warm(ish) night, the three of us enjoying a shared activity and being very together.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 18 March, 2010, 09:40:35 am
V unusually I drove in today.
I know I've said it before, but I get treated a hell of a lot better by other drivers when I'm on my bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 18 March, 2010, 01:31:26 pm
Track mitts! Kepi!  Summer (well mebbe spring) is here!
Still wearing longs mind you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 18 March, 2010, 01:47:35 pm
Shorts today !!   First time on the commute this year.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 18 March, 2010, 01:49:38 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 18 March, 2010, 01:31:26 pm
Track mitts! Kepi!  Summer (well mebbe spring) is here!
Still wearing longs mind you.

I've been wearing mitts all this week.  I haven't quite shifted into shorts yet, mainly because I generally come home after dark, and it's got a little cooler by then.

I was seriously considering only cycling in a jersey today, since with the thin fleece over the top it was rather too warm.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 18 March, 2010, 01:53:15 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 18 March, 2010, 01:31:26 pm
Track mitts! Kepi!  Summer (well mebbe spring) is here!
Still wearing longs mind you.
Same here, first day for mitts in the morning. Still wearing longs
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 18 March, 2010, 03:20:53 pm
Quote from: TimO on 18 March, 2010, 01:49:38 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 18 March, 2010, 01:31:26 pm
Track mitts! Kepi!  Summer (well mebbe spring) is here!
Still wearing longs mind you.

I've been wearing mitts all this week. <snip>
On Tuesday morning (0630) I wore gloves and glove liners.   It took over an hour after I got to work for feeling to return to my thumbs.  Painful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Hot Flatus on 18 March, 2010, 04:49:58 pm
Shorts this afternoon and rain too
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul D on 18 March, 2010, 07:42:43 pm
Yep, lovely sunny morning ride over to Portland. Horrible, sopping wet evening ride back. Even my headphones packed in, full of water.

I preferred cold & icy commuting. I like to save the warm, windy & wet weather for 200k+ audaxing. :hand:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 18 March, 2010, 09:48:27 pm
...the Very Lovely Valencia found top gear, for the first time.  I had a very very big grin.

I was riding home from the bike rescue, along the river path and just at the bottom of the bridge (on the side of the river I was coming along) side' there was a fairly large gang of fairly large teenagers.  Not particularly doing anything, just hanging around smoking with a couple of them mucking about on bike.  But a while back there were a few reports of people getting hassle on that path - stuff thrown, a couple of thumpings and so on.  So, whilst I wasn't exactly worried I was fairly 'aware' of them, and went past and up the bridge probably rather faster  than my usual pootling-along speed.  Which meant that I went down the other side with a bit more of a head of steam than usual, and for the first time ever there were no other bikes/pedestrians/suicidal dogs around and I didn't have to slow down at all so I just kept pedalling away and clicking up through the gears and suddenly there were no more gears and I realised that, my my standards, I was going really rather fast.

I quite liked it  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 18 March, 2010, 10:01:40 pm
No sofas, no pipers, one Christmas tree and a bpoab today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 18 March, 2010, 10:04:34 pm
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 18 March, 2010, 09:48:27 pm
...I was going really rather fast.

I quite liked it  :D

Danged lycra clad speeding cyclists. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 18 March, 2010, 10:17:32 pm
Quote from: Kirst on 18 March, 2010, 10:01:40 pm
No sofas, no pipers, one Christmas tree and a bpoab today.

BagPuss on a brompton? ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 18 March, 2010, 10:33:10 pm
Gahhh, after leaving work at 8pm it was a rather rapid ride home. Hit the A20 from the A205 and breezed past another lass and worked like a bastard hitting the hill before the beautiful downhill into Loampit Vale. It was when I hit the cycle path into Cornmill Gardens that I realised that the p*ncture faerie had hit on the back wheel. Bahhhh  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 18 March, 2010, 11:03:45 pm
Quote from: TimO on 18 March, 2010, 10:04:34 pm
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 18 March, 2010, 09:48:27 pm
...I was going really rather fast.

I quite liked it  :D

Danged lycra clad speeding cyclists. ;D

Well, my M&S socks are possibly 5% lycra.  And I imagine there's some lycra in knicker elastic.... but me in lycra is NOT a good thought!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 19 March, 2010, 08:44:58 am
Overtaken stupidly by a white van today, stationary traffic in front, I'm slightly beyond secondary (primary side), on a narrow uphill stretch (by Hampton waterworks for those who know it) doing about 14mph. He gets half way past, then tries to bully me into the gutter. Contact made with wing mirror as I hold my position and he brakes.

Driver of GX09 AOY be very ashamed of youself, especially as the badge on your arm said 'Metropolitan Police'.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 March, 2010, 09:22:23 am
Quote from: Kirst on 18 March, 2010, 10:01:40 pm
No sofas, no pipers, one Christmas tree and a bpoab today.

That last would brighten the day.  Good spot :thumbsup:


I'm digging out the mitts this weekend.  My gloves are getting too damp every ride now.  I'll wear them when we go to the track on Sunday because there's a lot of cold standing around, but I do think it's mitt weather :)

Lovely lovely ride in this morning.  My only spoken words were:

'Shit for brains!'
'Learn to drive!'
and
'Look, you incompetent' followed by a surprisingly teenage 'wha'eva' when the passenger in the car that had pulled out in front of me on E&C gave me some incomprehensible verbal.  What did I care?  I'd had a good ride, and I was soon to have a shower.

After I'd disposed of the dead rat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wascally Weasel on 19 March, 2010, 09:32:03 am
Fastest commute of the year so far, 16.9mph average, only 47 minutes door to door.  Probably a rubbish time if I was out in the country but not bad for London in rush hour.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andygates on 19 March, 2010, 09:34:12 am
Sadly rush hour and dawn silflay are coincident again, so it's chunks of wildlife a-go-go.  Today: be thankful for mudguards when dodging badger giblets. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 19 March, 2010, 11:45:52 am
For the second time in a matter of weeks my rear mech hanger has sheared off.  I tried to do an emergency single speed conversion but I couldn't get the chain to stick to one rear sprocket.

Bike currently residing at a friends house near to where it happened.   :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 19 March, 2010, 09:05:30 pm
I caught up a BSO on a path in Derby this morning.  I was very concerned that the back wheel was about to come loose, as the QR lever was wide open.  So I told the rider; we stopped, and it transpired that he (or the mechanic of the house) had used the QR lever as a spanner, and just tightened it as far as it would go in a rotating direction. :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 20 March, 2010, 01:20:19 am
Got home to find I'd hit an average of 17.0mph. First time in the 17s this year. Love the sunny weather.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 22 March, 2010, 08:58:12 am
On the way in this morning nearly killed by two different Firstbuses.

The first (LK05FCO) was a bendy bus who passed me and nearly took skin off my right shin, it was that close!

The second (W919VLN) was a double decker, and to the driver's credit he stopped, put his hazards on, waved me past and apologised for passing so close.  He said it was because a car had come out of nowhere coming towards him and he had instinctively moved left.  Fair play to him, I thanked him for stopping and apologising.

Other than that a good ride in, no wind, sunshine and a 16.5mph ave.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hulver on 22 March, 2010, 09:05:04 am
I took the longer route to work this morning, a very nice ride. Didn't need my top covering or buff today, it's certainly warmed up a lot in the last week.

Saw a very fat, very dead pheasant.

A huge tractor and trailer tried to bully me off the road, which was a bit scary. The top of his front wheel was higher than my head. He eventually realised that I wasn't going to move off the road, and sat behind me for another 10 seconds before the junction  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 March, 2010, 09:11:59 am
Lovely warm morning.  It's mitts weather.  It has to be - my favourite gloves (BG Radiant (old style)), having split last year, have only just survived another, and my newer gloves have been adopted by Superstoker.

Fun ride in.  Felt fast & smooth.  Not quite as fast as I thought, but it's still pulling my monthly and annual averages up :)

Hundreds - I do not exaggerate at all - hundreds of cyclists on the road, especially near Stockwell.  Phenomenal sight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 22 March, 2010, 09:55:41 am
Quote from: clarion on 22 March, 2010, 09:11:59 am
Hundreds - I do not exaggerate at all - hundreds of cyclists on the road, especially near Stockwell.  Phenomenal sight.

Weird. There seemed to be fewer than normal on my route in. Though I did have a 'snap bikes' moment with a guy on the embankment - always nice to agree on each other's good taste  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 22 March, 2010, 11:19:38 am
Pulled up next to a nice BMW convertible, chatting, and complimenting each others' rides.  Friendly guy, beautiful car.  The next second there are flashbulbs going off everywhere. I look to the other side, and there are like 100 tourists on the pavement all taking photos. The BMW driver was nonplussed, he didn't know what to do with so much attention despite having a convertible.  Upstaged by a peasant on a bicycle, LOL!

A five year old riding on the front footpegs of a BMX down Peckham High Street.

      YouTube
            - Child riding on BMX footpegs
    (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qNAiAmNjsyU)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 22 March, 2010, 11:59:52 am
I used to pick my (then soon to be) wife up from Brighton General, and come down Elm Grove with her on the back pegs, regularly having to pass cars and buses as we did 40mph down the hill. Must have been quite a sight with her in in nurses uniform. Getting round the corner at the Level was somewhat sketchy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tourist Tony on 22 March, 2010, 12:21:22 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 22 March, 2010, 11:19:38 am
Pulled up next to a nice BMW convertible, chatting, and complimenting each others' rides.  Friendly guy, beautiful car.  The next second there are flashbulbs going off everywhere. I look to the other side, and there are like 100 tourists on the pavement all taking photos. The BMW driver was nonplussed, he didn't know what to do with so much attention despite having a convertible.  Upstaged by a peasant on a bicycle, LOL!

A five year old riding on the front footpegs of a BMX down Peckham High Street.

      YouTube
            - Child riding on BMX footpegs
    (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qNAiAmNjsyU)
What was going on at that set oflights (apart from the RLJ0?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 22 March, 2010, 12:31:26 pm
You mean the car RLJing?  I think the driver got confused when the pedestrian lights on the other side of the junction changed.  Bad design perhaps, it's not the first time I've seen a driver get confused with that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tourist Tony on 22 March, 2010, 12:35:01 pm
Not strictly a commute, but....
I set off to go down to Horsham Folk Club, which is a short ride either side of the train to avoid the racetrack dual carriageway. I was passed at speed by HJ03VBY* , whose front passenger was leaning out and screaming the usual incomprehensible gibberish**. John, from the Folk Club, boarded at another station, and then the train stopped. Signals shagged....
It was,ofcourse, much nicer riding the rest of the way, till we got to the edge of town. There was a woman proceeding round a roundabout at about 3mph. No signals...she did a couple of loops, and then I saw why. She had slowed forsafety reasons,as the mobile pressed to her ear made it difficult to drive safely. I expressed my opinion loudly.
On into Horsham and over the little bridge before the station, then attack the town centre road. This comes to a set oflights with a left filter onto a dual carriageway. Just as we arrived we were overtaken by a Lancia,who slid to a halt across boath lanes at an angle because he wanted to beat us off from the lights. They changed, we went to the next lights...together. Then to the mini roundabout...together. He parked on the footpath and John and I just shook our heads.

*I spoke to my friendly traffic warden at work on the way in. "The car was weaving and speeding, looked like the driver might've been drinking"

**Probably something to do with road tax....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tourist Tony on 22 March, 2010, 12:35:57 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 22 March, 2010, 12:31:26 pm
You mean the car RLJing?  I think the driver got confused when the pedestrian lights on the other side of the junction changed.  Bad design perhaps, it's not the first time I've seen a driver get confused with that.
...and the bike that sailed straight through!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 22 March, 2010, 12:39:21 pm
TBH I was more shocked at taking a 5 y/o on the footpegs.  Either I'm getting old, or it's because I've seen serious consequences from a similar situation.  I'd be seriously unhappy if someone took my child for a ride like that, one decent bounce and the child will be face first to the pavement with the bike going over her, never mind the traffic and highstreet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Fluffy on 22 March, 2010, 02:24:33 pm
Speaking of footpegs, I was on them back when I was 7 years old, the rider went downhill on a sharp bend and i lost my footing, basically took all the skin of the insides of both legs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 22 March, 2010, 06:46:17 pm
I passed 7 horses in a field, all with their bums facing towards me.  I nearly stopped to take a photo.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 March, 2010, 10:41:28 am
This morning, I crossed the level crossing, and saw a chap trying to get his chain back on.  I stopped to offer help, as it didn't look like he was carrying many tools.  I quickly noticed that the bike was a Colnago Arte bought at De Ver Cycles.  I also noticed that the rider was a voluble Italian, who explained how he'd been knocked off at the approach to the level crossing, and had a lot of verbal from the van driver.  He'd pointed out the CCTV and suggested the Police, and, when a street cleaner offered himself as a witness, the van driver quickly agreed to give his details.  I hope the rider doesn't get ripped off by a tosser giving him some false info, or fobbing him off once he realises that damaging a Colnago isn't a cheap mistake to make.  The rider seemed to have just a little bruising and I saw him riding a few minutes later.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 23 March, 2010, 12:20:08 pm
This morning was my fastest commute EVER! It was an average of 14.6 MPH which may not be much to a lot of people, but considering I've had some sub 10 mph rides, I'm really happy :D.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 23 March, 2010, 12:26:28 pm
Quote from: Butterfly on 23 March, 2010, 12:20:08 pm
This morning was my fastest commute EVER! It was an average of 14.6 MPH which may not be much to a lot of people, but considering I've had some sub 10 mph rides, I'm really happy :D.

SOME sub 10mph?  I aspire to one day cross that barrier :) 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wascally Weasel on 23 March, 2010, 12:32:31 pm
Quote from: Grub on 22 March, 2010, 06:46:17 pm
I passed 7 horses in a field, all with their bums facing towards me.  I nearly stopped to take a photo.

I never had you pegged as a keen amateur equine proctologist  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 23 March, 2010, 12:54:23 pm
This morning I was pedaling along and started to really enjoy my position on the bike.
I now have everything just as I want it.
It is even starting to look more minimalistic with fewer batteries hanging off etc.
Very nice indeed  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 23 March, 2010, 01:21:03 pm
Closest shave for a long time this morning. Heading east on Lower Richmond Road, approaching end of queues at the lights, Addison Lee Galaxy obviously sees the queues and decides on an abrupt left across me. Inches  :( and nothing I could have done if it had been closer.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 23 March, 2010, 01:28:24 pm
Riding home last night, tailwind, rocking along with good visibility. Coming up to a sliproad, I could see a queue of cars approaching the sliproad. 'bu&&er' thinks I, I'll have to duck between them. First car undertakes me, I signal left. 2nd car comes alongside, driver looks at me. Then she slows down and stays alongside me.  ffs, I was doing 30 (it's downhill), I don't if she expected me to speed up and cross in front of her or what. Eventually I slowed a bit and she got the message and sped up so I could get across behind her.

Here
http://maps.google.co.uk/?ie=UTF8&ll=53.875297,-1.265665&spn=0.002195,0.005429&t=k&z=18 (http://maps.google.co.uk/?ie=UTF8&ll=53.875297,-1.265665&spn=0.002195,0.005429&t=k&z=18)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 23 March, 2010, 02:29:49 pm
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 23 March, 2010, 12:26:28 pm
Quote from: Butterfly on 23 March, 2010, 12:20:08 pm
This morning was my fastest commute EVER! It was an average of 14.6 MPH which may not be much to a lot of people, but considering I've had some sub 10 mph rides, I'm really happy :D.

SOME sub 10mph?  I aspire to one day cross that barrier :)  
Read 'some' as 'rather a lot' ;). The tail wind today helped :D.

I did overtake a chap on a fairly fast-looking giant road bike though. This was good :thumbsup:.
Also bear in mind that with a 16 mile round trip commute, I really do feel that I ought to be a bit faster. I usually just dally. :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 23 March, 2010, 02:49:44 pm
Dally you say.I usually do "slow dally":"medium dally" & "stopped".If there is a need to hurry up I can do a "fast dally" which fortuitously equates to an audax minimum speed(15kmh) so that with cake stops I can get round a 100k audax & finish not too much out of time
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 23 March, 2010, 04:13:44 pm
*Looks out of widow - notices umbrellas being deployed.*

*Checks Will it Rain Today? | Rain radar for the UK | Going to rain? | Meteogroup (http://www.raintoday.co.uk/) *


Bugger.  I've come in on a bike that doesn't have mudguards.  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moloko on 23 March, 2010, 04:16:08 pm
Quote from: Grub on 22 March, 2010, 06:46:17 pm
I passed 7 horses in a field, all with their bums facing towards me.  I nearly stopped to take a photo.

But you were quite content with the mental pictures.  ;D

You should show your post to your colleagues.   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 March, 2010, 04:19:39 pm
Quote from: Basil on 23 March, 2010, 04:13:44 pm
*Looks out of widow - *

Errr....?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moloko on 23 March, 2010, 04:21:28 pm
Quote from: clarion on 23 March, 2010, 04:19:39 pm
Quote from: Basil on 23 March, 2010, 04:13:44 pm
*Looks out of widow - *

Errr....?

Perfectly possible if you're Ed Gein.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 23 March, 2010, 05:18:27 pm
Quote from: clarion on 23 March, 2010, 04:19:39 pm
Quote from: Basil on 23 March, 2010, 04:13:44 pm
*Looks out of widow - *

Errr....?

oops
 ::-)  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: BrianI on 23 March, 2010, 05:39:34 pm
On the commute today I never wore any cycling shorts.
 :o






seeing as my commute to work from my new house is under 1.5 miles each way, I may as well cycle in work clothes rather than lycra!   ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: αdαmsκι on 23 March, 2010, 07:11:59 pm
Generally my commute is numpty free. This evening I had three separate people attempting to kill me.

1) A women pulling out of a house into the main road while I was coming towards her at >40 km/h. I realised she was going to perform this stunt and had already started slowing down. I ended up screaming at her just to make her aware of my presence, and even then I'm not 100% sure she knew she'd pulled out on me.

2) Heading towards a roundabout in the middle lane, which was void of traffic. Well it was until a van decided to move from the right hand lane into the middle lane as I was passing. It felt very close and I pulled onto the pavement to recover from the shock. He apologized and said he hadn't seen me in his mirror ::-).

3) The diver of a French car pulled out on me as I was sprinting up a hill. I didn't have to use to the brakes because it was steep enough for me to simply stop pedaling.

Hopefully tomorrow morning will be back be normal.

Grr.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 23 March, 2010, 07:28:56 pm
It's carnage on the roads round here

This morning (only counting 'fresh' ones)
1 badger
2 pigeons
2 deer (muntjack and roe)
6 pheasants (4 cock, 2 hen)
a partridge (no pear tree)
a ginger pussy cat :(
2 hares
2 rabbits
and a massive

35 amphibians. Hard to tell toad from frog when splatted.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 23 March, 2010, 07:44:30 pm
First commute home in pouring drizzle for a long time - I love it!  ;D (Though not as much as arriving home looking like a snowman....)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 23 March, 2010, 07:58:26 pm
Quote from: Dicky Mo on 23 March, 2010, 04:16:08 pm
Quote from: Grub on 22 March, 2010, 06:46:17 pm
I passed 7 horses in a field, all with their bums facing towards me.  I nearly stopped to take a photo.

But you were quite content with the mental pictures.  ;D

You should show your post to your colleagues.   :thumbsup:

You can't beat thoroughbreed arse  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 23 March, 2010, 09:32:33 pm
Quote from: fboab on 23 March, 2010, 07:28:56 pm
It's carnage on the roads round here

This morning (only counting 'fresh' ones)
1 badger
2 pigeons
2 deer (muntjack and roe)
6 pheasants (4 cock, 2 hen)
a partridge (no pear tree)
a ginger pussy cat :(
2 hares
2 rabbits
and a massive

35 amphibians. Hard to tell toad from frog when splatted.

Crikey! Where's the guy who lives off roadkill? He could eat like a king for weeks on that lot!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 23 March, 2010, 10:11:06 pm
Quote from: little miss mac on 23 March, 2010, 09:32:33 pm
Quote from: fboab on 23 March, 2010, 07:28:56 pm
It's carnage on the roads round here

This morning (only counting 'fresh' ones)
1 badger
2 pigeons
2 deer (muntjack and roe)
6 pheasants (4 cock, 2 hen)
a partridge (no pear tree)
a ginger pussy cat :(
2 hares
2 rabbits
and a massive

35 amphibians. Hard to tell toad from frog when splatted.

Crikey! Where's the guy who lives off roadkill? He could eat like a king for weeks on that lot!
[/quote

Caught TB and died  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 23 March, 2010, 10:17:19 pm
Quote from: Grub on 23 March, 2010, 07:58:26 pm
Quote from: Dicky Mo on 23 March, 2010, 04:16:08 pm
Quote from: Grub on 22 March, 2010, 06:46:17 pm
I passed 7 horses in a field, all with their bums facing towards me.  I nearly stopped to take a photo.

But you were quite content with the mental pictures.  ;D

You should show your post to your colleagues.   :thumbsup:

You can't beat thoroughbreed arse  ;D

I'm sure you can - if you use the correct.. erm... implement.
 :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 24 March, 2010, 12:05:04 am
Quote from: αdαmsκι on 23 March, 2010, 07:11:59 pm
Generally my commute is numpty free. This evening I had three separate people attempting to kill me.

1) A women pulling out of a house into the main road while I was coming towards her at >40 km/h. I realised she was going to perform this stunt and had already started slowing down. I ended up screaming at her just to make her aware of my presence, and even then I'm not 100% sure she knew she'd pulled out on me.

2) Heading towards a roundabout in the middle lane, which was void of traffic. Well it was until a van decided to move from the right hand lane into the middle lane as I was passing. It felt very close and I pulled onto the pavement to recover from the shock. He apologized and said he hadn't seen me in his mirror ::-).

3) The diver of a French car pulled out on me as I was sprinting up a hill. I didn't have to use to the brakes because it was steep enough for me to simply stop pedaling.

Hopefully tomorrow morning will be back be normal.

Grr.



It must be a national thing.

I was shocked by two near-misses today: first, a driver nearly t-boned me when he turned right while I was trying to turn left into the the same road.  I knew the git had seen me and went anyway, as he stared steadfastly ahead despite my loud "Oi!".  Braking to avoid him, I had such a dramatic front wheel skid that I thought the tyre had come off the rim.

Cruised to the bike stands, locked the bike up, checked the tyres.  Everything was fine.  Stomped along to the car park to head the driver off on his walk to our office.  I don't know how much of my angry, shaky rant had an effect, but he looked suitably browbeaten at the end of it.

On the way home, I had to drop something off in Newton Aycliffe, then ride the horrible rat-run through Middridge and Shildon to Bishop Auckland.  Hairy, but fine.  I was riding into Bishop Auckland, though, and some tosser in a white van nearly left-hooked me.  Only my finely-honed reactions saved me, as I saw the turn, noticed the van's approach, saw the blink of the left indicator, BRAKED and screamed "WHOAH!" at speeds which would put a microprocessor to shame.  My anger-circuits (already buzzing after the sheer fuckwittery of the day) kicked into action and I yelled "WANKER!" as his wing passed within inches of my front wheel.  The van's brake lights came on - I wasn't sure whether he was going to proffer profuse apologies, flowers and a conciliatory drink, or whether he was going to reinforce his argument with the humungous "Peacemaker" spanner he probably keeps on the passenger seat to scare off the tea-leaves.  I scarpered before finding out, still grey from the encounter, plotting an escape route in case he did follow me.

A fair gauge of how close it was came a few seconds after, as the two taxicabs which overtook me gave me so much room, I wondered if I was in a Highway Code photoshoot.

Did I mention it was raining? It was hoying down, and cold, and miserable, and I was wet and cold and miserable, so I took the train home, via the supermarket for BEER.

There's a difference between driving which is merely inconsiderate, and that which is actually dangerous.  I don't think either of those specimens realised how far along the scale they were.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 24 March, 2010, 08:05:09 am
Last night.  OK. I acknowledge that rain and wind are part of the commuting cyclist's lot, but did there have to be quite so many vicious little gusts of head wind and did it have to drive the rain into my face with quite as much malicious glee as it did?  No. It did not. It's not big and it's not clever. Stop it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 24 March, 2010, 08:13:59 am
After my fast ride in, I managed to keep the speed up so that I had the fastest over all ride of the year :D. And, I think, my second fastest ever. Despite having to negotiate quite a bit of staionary traffic. The round trip average was 1 whole mile an hour faster than my second fastest round trip this year :thumbsup:.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 24 March, 2010, 08:27:55 am
Definately a nationwide thing, this fuckwittery driving, on the way back last night I was riding along the Uxbridge road (in the cycle lane) when I heard a car horn beep and a black Astra RK03somethingsomethingsomthing swerved towards me.  At first I thought it was just a "nothing to do with me" case, but I caught them up at the lights and they did the same again to me and another cyclist.  Should have known, considering the evidence before me, thus:
1) cheap nasty chavved up car (tinted windows, big exhaust etc etc
2) Loud music blaring out through the open windows
3) 4 up, all young males
4) strong smell of green coming out of the open windows....

I was glad when they disappeared off up the road....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cyclone on 24 March, 2010, 09:28:48 am
only halfway on todays commute (visit the nearby campus first before heading off to the regular one..) It's still precipitating down, in fact every time since last Friday (including Sats audax), so actually getting a little weary of it now. Shows how much we were spoilt here in Wales with the cold dry weather :thumbsup:).
Here in Swansea every time it rains the fuckwittery quotient rises and now it seems to have spread nationwide....
Rant over, we'll have to see what happens in half an hour or so...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 24 March, 2010, 09:35:21 am
The traffic this morning was heavy on the the Embankment coming up to Embankment tube, and I was weaving through the stationary cars (slowly, because I am Little Miss Cautious). Probably for the first time in my life I actually knocked the corner of a rear bumper. It was really more of a gentle tap and there was no damage, but because the driver's window was open and he had heard something, I said sorry as I filtered past.

"CUNT", he yelled, as I continued on my way. I think that's the first time anyone has shouted that at me, ever.

I like to think he felt like one himself after shouting like that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 24 March, 2010, 09:44:24 am
Remember LMM that such as yourself make pricks like him stand to attention.
Game,set & match to the lady.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Spikey on 24 March, 2010, 09:45:45 am
Overtake of the day prize goes to:
     the lady who overtook while exceeding the 20mph speed limit, leaving about 12 inches gap, downhill on damp roads, over a speed bump, half on wrong side of road round a very blind RH corner, just before a primary school, while braking to turn left across a sideroad with young children crossing.

Despite locking both wheels I was just about able to stay upright and avoid both the car and pedestrians.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 24 March, 2010, 09:53:42 am
Other than two complete numpties, it was a good ride in.  After having dealt with two dangerous drivers last night (both reported on roadsafelondon), I tried to find a bit of a quieter route.  But it's not easy, so I just went for the usual.  Real, deep enjoyment. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 24 March, 2010, 11:58:58 am
Puncture on the way to work.
On the plus side the tarmacers are doing my Report the Hole road.
Loads of it is being resurfaced, not just plasters over old potholes  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tourist Tony on 24 March, 2010, 02:02:58 pm
Last night, riding into Crawley to play at a dance. Seriously close pass by a car, less than four inches from my elbow ith the mirror.
Dual control, driving school car, driver under instruction.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 24 March, 2010, 02:28:29 pm
Quote from: Tourist Tony on 24 March, 2010, 02:02:58 pm
Last night, riding into Crawley to play at a dance. Seriously close pass by a car, less than four inches from my elbow ith the mirror.
Dual control, driving school car, driver under instruction.

You could do a Cunobelin - write to all 6 driving schools in the local area describing the driving, quoting the registration number, and mentioning that you didn't catch quite which school it was so are copying all of them in on the letter.   ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tourist Tony on 24 March, 2010, 07:09:09 pm
Unfortunately that one was a bit too quick and close and I was too busy to memorise it. It was on the little hill in Brighton Road in Crawley.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 24 March, 2010, 07:42:50 pm
Oh well, I managed to go about 150m from my front door this morning before being subjected to weapons grade WVM thuggery. 

Just coming up to a traffic island so stayed in primary, engine roar very apparent coming up from behind.  Due to parked cars had to stay out.  WVM screamed past and missed me by centimetres.  I'm going to upload the footage onto Youtube and log a complaint on the Met's website......Needless to say I caught up at the lights.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 24 March, 2010, 08:19:55 pm
Shouty commute today. Not me. Firstly, coasting through badlands of Peckham, an overtaking Homo whitevanicus leaned out of his window and evidently felt compelled to loudly grunt 'PUNCTURE' at me. Oddly, neither of my tyres chose that moment to deflate. I would have been pretty impressed (and worried) if either had.

The on the way home, scooting around the bottom of Crystal Palace hill (there be dinosaurs), a local troupe of burberry apes had the wit to shout 'CYCLIST' as I passed.  They'll be assembling basic descriptive sentences soon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 24 March, 2010, 10:15:38 pm
Quote from: Tourist Tony on 24 March, 2010, 02:02:58 pm
Last night, riding into Crawley to play at a dance. Seriously close pass by a car, less than four inches from my elbow ith the mirror.
Dual control, driving school car, driver under instruction.
[OT] What do you play, Tony? [/OT]

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 25 March, 2010, 07:12:20 am
No real commute yesterday so had to do with 2 laps of heathrow to compensate.

this morning I was in top form tho, bezzing along at ~17mph and I see a guy on a MTB up ahead that I had played cat and mouse with before (and failed), "game on" I thought.  I clicked up a few and chased him down, as I got to the point of passing him I look over my right shoulder and see another cyclist drafting me.... Oh well, I am not as good as I thought :).  Rode the rest of the way in to Uxbridge chatting to Chris, who had just finished a night shift and was heading to Edgeware.  last nights ave speed 18.6 over 18 miles, this morning 16.87 over 7.7 miles...

Good times :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 25 March, 2010, 07:15:07 am
Quote from: tiermat on 25 March, 2010, 07:12:20 am
No real commute yesterday so had to do with 2 laps of heathrow to compensate.

this morning I was in top form tho, bezzing along at ~17mph and I see a guy on a MTB up ahead that I had played cat and mouse with before (and failed), "game on" I thought.  I clicked up a few and chased him down, as I got to the point of passing him I look over my right shoulder and see another cyclist drafting me.... Oh well, I am not as good as I thought :).  Rode the rest of the way in to Uxbridge chatting to Chris, who had just finished a night shift and was heading to Edgeware.  last nights ave speed 18.6 over 18 miles, this morning 16.87 over 7.7 miles...

Good times :)

Hopefully the drafter was not on an MTB too  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 25 March, 2010, 07:35:46 am
No, he was on a rather nice black Willier Mortirolo, first time I had seen a black one...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 March, 2010, 09:54:09 am
I had another fastish ride this morning, with the hordes of traffic lights being kind, as was the disposition of the traffic jams so I could sail happily past.  I kept leaving people behind as we pulled away from the junctions, and I had to look over my shoulder twice to confirm that the expected cyclist nearby had really dropped back.  Oh - and, for the first time this year, I saw a young woman riding in a dress.  Making good pace, too.  It was a glorious morning.

Of course, when I was making a cup of tea at work, I looked out of the window and saw a grey, wet morning with nothing to recommend it.  But being on a bike can transform that :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Fluffy on 25 March, 2010, 09:55:17 am
Yesterday the puncture fairies paid me a visit with 6 miles to go, luckily I had my spare tube and all my tools with me. Was a 15 minute job then I was on my way. Another cyclist stopped and asked if I had everything I needed, we had a brief chat then he carried on his way. Was nice of him to offer though. So mr Bury cyclist if you visit here, thanks for offering to help.

PS it was quite a violent puncture, went past a junction and bang... Next thing I saw was the green slime pissing out and the tyre was deflated in 10 seconds or so. It was a huge shard of glass that was hidden in the wet road. I need to invest in some kevlars I guess
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 25 March, 2010, 12:07:43 pm
Quote from: Fluffy on 25 March, 2010, 09:55:17 am
...It was a huge shard of glass that was hidden in the wet road. I need to invest in some kevlars I guess

If it was that big, I doubt anything would stop it.  Tyres with "puncture proof" layers only really stop the small bits, which would otherwise give me about a puncture a month in London (based on the older tyres that I used to use).  I killed a Marathon Supreme (£25-£35 each) after only 3000 miles a month or two back, when something put a 15mm slit in it.  I managed to get another 100 miles or so out of it with a boot, but after a second visit, I decided that it was a goner.

After a couple of days off to let a slightly twisted knee recover, I commuted in today, which was a pleasant enough and quiet ride.

Unusually at one junction I stopped to let an emergency vehicle go through, which was presumably an unmarked police car.  It had no blue lights whatsoever.  It did have a siren, and the headlights were doing the alternate flashing thing that most police vehicles do these days, but there were no hidden blue lights in the front or rear, and no temporary rooftop suction cup one.

I see a lot of unmarked police vehicles on blues and twos (and probably even more which aren't using their lights and sirens!), but that's the first time I've seen one with no blue lights.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Fluffy on 25 March, 2010, 01:56:28 pm
OK I admit I exaggerated about how big the glass was, but it was big enough for me to see it lodged in the tube when I pulled it out, maybe 5-7mm across
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 25 March, 2010, 02:06:31 pm
First day riding the commute for a while today  :-[

Got passes by another fixie in Bagshot, normally I only see cyclists travelling in the oposite direction.

I blame the fact I had a pannier with the office laptop for the fact I couldn't stay with him and then the traffic lights for completely loosing his wheel.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 25 March, 2010, 02:10:18 pm
The good part of the ride (cat and mouse) completely obliterated the bad 2 parts, until now.

1) a Menzies bus tried killing me on the Heathrow Perimeter road
2) a nutcase in a beaten up old nissan obviously thought the white lines on the road are advisory, as he failed to stop at the roundabout that I was currently circumnavigating....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 25 March, 2010, 08:46:52 pm
Had to brake to avoid a silver Mercedes (1D DT1) which cut across me on the way home.  Still, it meant I could tell the driver "You've misspelt 'Idiot' on the back of your car" as I passed him twenty yards up the road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 25 March, 2010, 09:06:27 pm
Jeez that was hard coming home today.  The wind was horrific.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 25 March, 2010, 09:25:10 pm
More WVM thuggery for me today.  Wanting to turn right I did the shoulder check and saw the lesser spotted WVM some distance back, so I stuck out my right arm, hoping he would ease off and let me move over to the right....Nah, instead he accelerated aggressively  and nearly ripped my arm off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tourist Tony on 25 March, 2010, 09:36:55 pm
More taxi fun. I shall edit this post later and add his details,but while his passenger was calling me a f...... w...... I took some pics.
"So what's that going to do, tosser?"
"Put your vehicle where it can be searched for on the internet....with a commentary on how you drive it for any potential buyers"
And your picture.
No, three inches is not plenty of room; I should not be "closer to the kerb"; the lane on your right is not a bus lane (that's the one to the left); the speed limit is 30, not 55, mph.
And no, you don't pay road tax.
EDIT: LJ08 FRX, Broxbourne taxi number 336. The happy passengers to the right of the picture,the weasely driver centre. Now, boys and girls,how many stereotypical items are there in this picture?
(http://i954.photobucket.com/albums/ae29/cyclisttony/IMG_0925.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 March, 2010, 09:56:32 pm
Wind.  Rain.  Tough riding.  Fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 26 March, 2010, 07:27:33 am
Quote from: clarion on 25 March, 2010, 09:56:32 pm
Wind.  Rain.  Tough riding.  Fun.

Last night's commute, ditto.  this morning I had to use the horseless carriage to get to work as I will be heading home today, only to notice I have a headlight out.  Not too big a problem you might think, but then if you think that you have never tried to change the nearside headlight lamp on a Renault Scenic....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: longers on 26 March, 2010, 07:37:44 am
A friend had a lot of "fun" changing a bulb on a Megane.

On the commute today there were a lot of worms on the road which needed avoiding.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 March, 2010, 09:36:53 am
Today, for various logistical reasons, I rode to work on Butterfly's Dahon.  Scared mesen witless, but I managed a 14.4mph average.  Might have been more if I'd not unshipped the chain first time I tried top gear, and didn't dare give it a go for another half an hour.

There was a tailwind, but my speed was not too shabby compared to my normal ride. 

My wrist has regained feeling now, but it was very buzzy when I got to work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wascally Weasel on 26 March, 2010, 09:46:32 am
I must have been channelling Chris Hoy this morning when I overtook a scooter on the Embankment  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 26 March, 2010, 01:13:26 pm
Quote from: Wascally Weasel on 26 March, 2010, 09:46:32 am
I must have been channelling Chris Hoy this morning when I overtook a scooter on the Embankment  :thumbsup:
Woohoo! 8) :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 26 March, 2010, 01:17:19 pm
Quote from: Wascally Weasel on 26 March, 2010, 09:46:32 am
I must have been channelling Chris Hoy this morning when I overtook a scooter on the Embankment  :thumbsup:

What, one of these?  :)
(http://www.argos.co.uk/wcsstore/argos/images/46-3674196MSA72UC604043M.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: αdαmsκι on 26 March, 2010, 02:08:39 pm
As I've been feeling rubbish all week, I was considering DRIVING in this morning, but in the end I decided I'd be good and cycle instead. (Plus I didn't get up early enough and so would have sat in traffic for far too long.) What reward did I get for cycling to work? A stonkin' great big head wind. I'm not impressed.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 26 March, 2010, 02:12:20 pm
Quote from: αdαmsκι on 26 March, 2010, 02:08:39 pm
As I've been feeling rubbish all week, I was considering DRIVING in this morning, but in the end I decided I'd be good and cycle instead. What reward did I get for that? A stonkin' great big head wind. I'm not impressed.

You should be used to headwinds after last Saturday!

I've got one to deal with tonight on the FNRttC, and I didn't enjoy the benefits of it into work this morning, since I had to abandon the bike at work last night with an exploded rim (for which I brought a replacement in with me on the Tube/Tram this morning).

On the plus side, I guess the speed of the FNRttC this evening will be fairly moderate (with 110 odd riders), so the headwind will probably have minimal effect.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wascally Weasel on 26 March, 2010, 02:16:36 pm
Quote from: MattH on 26 March, 2010, 01:17:19 pm
Quote from: Wascally Weasel on 26 March, 2010, 09:46:32 am
I must have been channelling Chris Hoy this morning when I overtook a scooter on the Embankment  :thumbsup:

What, one of these?  :)
(http://www.argos.co.uk/wcsstore/argos/images/46-3674196MSA72UC604043M.jpg)

Yes, I think the owner was six.  I had to push him off in order to stay ahead.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moloko on 26 March, 2010, 05:02:24 pm

No usual going through the ford today. A bit on the spate side.

(http://i578.photobucket.com/albums/ss226/SgtBikeo/henshaw.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 March, 2010, 05:03:43 pm
Ya big jessie! ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moloko on 26 March, 2010, 05:05:13 pm
Squelch - squelch - squelch.    :hand:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 26 March, 2010, 06:37:00 pm
The wind was mental today, though oddly exhilirating.  I was late for a dentist's appointment on the way  home so despite the 'Friday legs' managed a PB.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 26 March, 2010, 08:16:18 pm
The wind was mental, I agree.   Mentally draining too.
Good commute really.  Avoided the moisture both ways.
I've got 2 more dead badgers and the tarmacers have done a great job along what was fast becoming my personal pave route  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MSeries on 26 March, 2010, 08:19:03 pm
Had to wait ages for a bus tonight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 26 March, 2010, 10:07:30 pm
Quote from: Grub on 26 March, 2010, 08:16:18 pm

I've got 2 more dead badgers
Are you making a collection?

Would you be interested in a dead frog and a very squashed small bird, possibly a starling?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 27 March, 2010, 12:19:00 am
Quote from: Kirst on 26 March, 2010, 10:07:30 pm
Quote from: Grub on 26 March, 2010, 08:16:18 pm

I've got 2 more dead badgers
Are you making a collection?

Would you be interested in a dead frog and a very squashed small bird, possibly a starling?

Kirst,

That reminds me.  Yesterday I saw my first squashed female Blackbird.  It was a real mess, all feathers and bones sticking out.  The saddest part was I could still see the beak  :-[  A couple more metres along there were two male Blackbirds sort of just in the road.  I had a chuckle to myself that perhaps they witnessed the carnage and were in shock  :P

The second dead badger is in the same location as the first.  That set's resale value will be decreased if the carnage gets out amongst the old Brock community.  Not worth two roots and some berries at all.

Frogs?  No thanks.  Had my fill at Center Parcs last week.  It was obviously suicide frog week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 27 March, 2010, 12:30:38 am
Quote from: Grub on 27 March, 2010, 12:19:00 am
  It was obviously suicide frog week.

Suicide frogs?

You mean, they Kermit suicide?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Vernon on 27 March, 2010, 12:35:50 am
Quote from: Wascally Weasel on 26 March, 2010, 02:16:36 pm
Quote from: MattH on 26 March, 2010, 01:17:19 pm
Quote from: Wascally Weasel on 26 March, 2010, 09:46:32 am
I must have been channelling Chris Hoy this morning when I overtook a scooter on the Embankment  :thumbsup:

What, one of these?  :)
(http://www.argos.co.uk/wcsstore/argos/images/46-3674196MSA72UC604043M.jpg)

Yes, I think the owner was six.  I had to push him off in order to stay ahead.
Preferable to pulling him off, I suppose  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 27 March, 2010, 08:38:05 am
Quote from: teethgrinder on 27 March, 2010, 12:30:38 am
Quote from: Grub on 27 March, 2010, 12:19:00 am
  It was obviously suicide frog week.

Suicide frogs?

You mean, they Kermit suicide?

Touche  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moloko on 27 March, 2010, 11:08:45 am
Quote from: Grub on 27 March, 2010, 12:19:00 am


Frogs?  No thanks.  Had my fill at Center Parcs last week.

They now do French cuisine? Oooooh, how posh.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 29 March, 2010, 07:54:15 am
Soggy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 29 March, 2010, 08:55:07 am
A ride built entirely from meh this morning.

Plus, my 'too-large-bike-aches' are back with vengeance meaning 5minutes in, I am uncomfortable and get progressively more uncomfortable for the duration of the mere 7mile ride.

ARGH!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 29 March, 2010, 09:18:31 am
Quite a quick ride this morning.  I suspect tailwind.

I did see a record four people dealing with p*nct*res at the roadside, though, looking at the types of bikes, they were those sensitive types that can only come outside during BST, so I suspect a winter's mouldering in a shed hasn't done much good.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 29 March, 2010, 03:18:05 pm
I think a record was set this morning. Six mobile phone-using drivers in a row along Dacre Road and Silverdale. They were trumped however by the guy who was reading a book. A fairly weighty hardback by the looks of it. Admittedly, he was in traffic, but still rolling forward. And they say drivers can't learn.

Still, the police pull-out from south London now seems complete*, so I guess they have no need to worry.

*To be fair, PCSOs still bumble around, and the occasional squad car sirens through on its way to far more exciting crimes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 29 March, 2010, 03:22:53 pm
I actually saw two proper Policemen walking through Brixton yesterday :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 29 March, 2010, 04:25:19 pm
Half an hour ago it was dry(ish).
It is now very nearly time for me to go home.
Anyone care to guess what the weather is doing right now?
Go on.
I bet you can't guess.

*Walks away from desk grumbling* :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spesh on 29 March, 2010, 04:40:15 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 29 March, 2010, 04:25:19 pm
Half an hour ago it was dry(ish).
It is now very nearly time for me to go home.
Anyone care to guess what the weather is doing right now?
Go on.
I bet you can't guess.

*Walks away from desk grumbling* :)


Timing - the very essence of comedy.  ;D :demon: ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 29 March, 2010, 07:02:28 pm
That was . . .  damp. And chilly.

I have a frostbitten belly. I think my middleage flab is developing chilblains.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 29 March, 2010, 07:18:14 pm
First 13 miles was fine.  The wind did not really seem to bother me.
Then once I'd topped Caen Hill - jeez the wind was hard and horrible and it contained wet stuff.
I trudged home in the end.  Thank goodness I had taken a gel before I left.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 29 March, 2010, 07:27:25 pm
I saw two ducks playing in a puddle in the Meadows.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 29 March, 2010, 09:37:10 pm
Moist.  And a bit blowy.

Thought we'd covered that for this end of the year.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 30 March, 2010, 06:38:34 am
OTOH I donned the overtrousers and there wasn't a drop....sweated my guts out for nowt.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 30 March, 2010, 07:42:37 am
First commute of the year without knee warmers or arm warmers!!! I even had a short sleeved jersey on (although I did have a windproof jacket over the top.

28:10, a good time, no numpties (apart from the driver at Dawley r/b who just pulled out without looking, but I have come to expect that and ride accordingly!)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 30 March, 2010, 08:56:26 am
In contrast to yesterday, my commute was a pleasure this morning. Despite the rain and the copious amounts of oil on the road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rdaviesb on 30 March, 2010, 09:12:38 am
It is a bit damp on the Fylde....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: αdαmsκι on 30 March, 2010, 09:21:22 am
Quote from: Kirst on 29 March, 2010, 07:27:25 pm
I saw two ducks playing in a puddle in the Meadows.

One duck. Squashed on the road :'(.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 30 March, 2010, 09:42:15 am
For complex reasons, I drove part of the way to work :(

And only got 15mins down Denmark Hill & Walworth Road.  It was fun, but poor surface, and some of the junctions are badly designed.

Ave speed in car: 9mph
Ave speed on bike: 22.0kph
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 30 March, 2010, 09:58:19 am
Plenty of drivers had their stupid pills for breakfast today.
Especially the Vauxhall Frontera that pulled out of scumville in Devizes.
I decided a Zen like state was more becomming that launching a full on attack.  Too many primary school children about anyway.
Was a headwind for a lot of the journey so hopefully, fingers crossed, I will fly home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 30 March, 2010, 10:17:18 am
I was taking the best bike to the LBS to get it serviced

It's a lot faster commuting on a Ti bike with tribars :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 30 March, 2010, 11:19:54 am
Quote from: jogler on 10 March, 2010, 10:36:13 am
Quote from: jogler on 08 March, 2010, 12:03:21 pm
Air temp 19*c.no wind.sunny.no traffic.......no problem ;)

same again :)

same again ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 30 March, 2010, 12:45:59 pm
I was starting to enjoy the lighter traffic since the schools started the Easter break.  However it seems to have brought out an increase of cars towing trailers. Some wider than the car, some driven by people who do not pull out, scary.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: longers on 30 March, 2010, 06:49:02 pm
Rather wet tonight and I saw a very bedraggled chap with a very large cross over one shoulder in Stalybridge.

He looked like he was going far as he had a map in a holder over one arm but did have a wheel on the bottom of the cross to make it a bit easier. If it weren't raining so hard I'd have stopped for a chat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 30 March, 2010, 09:58:28 pm
Hard slog into work.
Awesome tailwind on the way home.  So much so that when the really cold wet stuff started to fall I didn't really mind.
I was dreaming of being a pro rider as I was going that fast  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 30 March, 2010, 10:07:41 pm
Quote from: longers on 30 March, 2010, 06:49:02 pm
did have a wheel on the bottom of the cross to make it a bit easier

cheat!

 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 30 March, 2010, 10:11:19 pm
Unbelievably foggy going in. Unbelievably wet coming home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 31 March, 2010, 05:51:46 am
It is blowing a gale out there, and wet.  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 31 March, 2010, 07:18:28 am
Windy and wet going back last night, and had a stupid idiot in a Kia Sedona try to wipe me out, not once, but twice.  the second time was as we approached a set of lights, that was on red.  she passed me with millimetres to spare then cut in.  I rode round the side of her and gave her a piece of my mind.  She looked a little non-plussed as to what she did wrong, but hopefully by the end of my rant she realised :)

this morning was uneventful apart from the wind, again...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 31 March, 2010, 08:02:32 am
I am dreading the wind this morning. Staying up until 2am with a cyring child may be affecting me, but it's making me have thoughts of... taking the short route :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 31 March, 2010, 08:51:51 am
Wind and freezing cold torrential rain on the way home last night. Contrary to the morning, the cagers were all set to DETH mode and did their very best to erase my existence for the whole journey >:(

This morning was a bit of a slog, though pretty enjoyable (a couple of wonks, but hey, they weren't to bad).

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 31 March, 2010, 09:32:02 am
I was very lucky this morning.

Lucky because, though the weather looked horrible outside, the rain held off, and the wind, though a crosswind, was slightly more behind me than in front, so I got a bit of a shove, and arrived in to work very early.

Lucky too that I wasn't hit by the car that turned right across my path.  I thought I'd had it, but my speed and instinct got me past.

Mind you, I'm not as lucky as the bastard driving, who managed to have a clear escape while I was turning round to chase him, so I didn't even have the prospect of getting him within VRN-reading range.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 31 March, 2010, 09:47:54 am
It's winter again

Tailwind in ( more of a tail gale) and snow falling on the Blackdowns.  The snow wasn't settling though, the ground was too wet
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cyclone on 31 March, 2010, 10:03:45 am
Gotta agree with Jacomus, nationwide the cagers were trying to murder all cyclists. T**ts. Had a shouting match over use of indicators, 3 passes within 6 inches...
Today, had to make an effort to face the howling headwind and not relishing the thought of pedalling about doing chores in between campuses... ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 31 March, 2010, 10:09:33 am
Cold and wet (but not as wet as yesterday), nice tailwind not looking forward to the ride home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 31 March, 2010, 10:09:39 am
I had a nice ride in, despite the threatening clouds. New cycle computer fitted  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: токамак on 31 March, 2010, 10:35:27 am
Lucky not to have been knocked off this morning by a motorist who just wasn't going to stop at a junction - 1 car stopped at junction to turn right, driver of 2nd car approaching junction looking way up the road, filters to left of stopped car and continues into main road to cross straight over. They suddenly see me right in front of them and skid to a stop ::-). Fortunately I saw them coming and had moved well wide. A classic SMIDSY - motorist looking up the road for oncoming traffic and not seeing what's there in the immediate vicinity. One for all cyclists to be aware of I think...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 31 March, 2010, 10:47:54 am
Quote from: PaulF on 31 March, 2010, 10:09:33 am
Cold and wet (but not as wet as yesterday), nice tailwind not looking forward to the ride home.

Cold and wet (but not as wet as yesterday), nice tailwind horrible headwind not looking forward to the ride home.

 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 31 March, 2010, 10:53:02 am
Two days tunnelling the 11 miles home in a horrid head-wind. Yesterday with the added joy of cold, driving rain. Like being spat on by angry eskimos, while stuck in a wind tunnel set to 'high'. Ick.

I'm staying at home today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 31 March, 2010, 11:06:45 am
As I passed through Mitcham, I saw two broken bike locks within about fifty metres. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 31 March, 2010, 11:20:31 am
Quote from: clarion on 31 March, 2010, 11:06:45 am
As I passed through Mitcham, I saw two broken bike locks within about fifty metres. :-\

There was a lonely rear wheel D-locked to a Sheffield stand in Tavistock Sq yesterday. Probably not the best plan, as the wheel in question had a QR.

(There was a Kryptonite cable that had been snipped too, I presume that had been looped around the frame.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tourist Tony on 31 March, 2010, 01:23:52 pm
I always find that logic odd. D-lock(s) through frame, cable for ancillary bits/wheels
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 31 March, 2010, 01:28:43 pm
Quote from: Tourist Tony on 31 March, 2010, 01:23:52 pm
I always find that logic odd. D-lock(s) through frame, cable for ancillary bits/wheels

+1
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 31 March, 2010, 01:33:38 pm
The other way round doesn't make an awful lot of sense either.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cyclops on 31 March, 2010, 02:35:08 pm
Well the weather here's either been heavy rain or heavy snow with gale force northerly winds so I've taken the car to work. The path I use on my commute even got on the news (http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/8596071.stm) (0:48 onwards) because of flooding.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Fluffy on 31 March, 2010, 02:48:24 pm
Got my new road tyres today, 26x1.75 Continental City Contact with kevlar protection, replaced my awful puncture loving knobblies 26.x2.1 Continental Speed Kings.

The difference is immense, it felt like the tyres were flat at one point the ride is that smooth. Takes me half the effort to get up to 20 mph on flats now, hopefully they actually are puncture resistant.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 31 March, 2010, 05:26:00 pm
Quote from: hatler on 31 March, 2010, 10:47:54 am
Quote from: PaulF on 31 March, 2010, 10:09:33 am
Cold and wet (but not as wet as yesterday), nice tailwind not looking forward to the ride home.

Cold and wet (but not as wet as yesterday), nice tailwind horrible headwind not looking forward to the ride home.

 ;D

Well if your run home if half as good as my run home was bad you'll have a smile on your face!!

That was truly a slog into the wind, no fun at all.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 31 March, 2010, 07:01:11 pm
Smile on my face here !!   Up around the 23mph mark for a lot of it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 31 March, 2010, 08:01:58 pm
Although it rained on and off all day, I managed to avoid all the rain on my four mini-commutes!  :D 

I think it's weather karma, to compensate for the ride to the swimming pool last night.  I swear I got slightly drier getting into the pool than I was after the ride there.  In a leaky cheapo 'waterproof' jacket and jeans.  Wet denim is not nice to ride in!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tourist Tony on 31 March, 2010, 09:12:52 pm
Why did I remove my race blades?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 31 March, 2010, 09:21:31 pm
Hah! I have been luxuriating in full-mudguard-dryness for days  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 01 April, 2010, 06:56:30 pm
On a country lane I saw a young lad (late teens) on the phone, standing by the side of the road next to his upturned road bike with the front wheel off. I asked if he needed help, it turned out he had no tyre levers with him so was calling for a lift home.

I offered him mine, and waited whilst he removed the tyre and tube completely from the wheel. He then carefully wrapped the new tube around the rim, and started to try to fit the tyre - without checking for sharps still in.

I bit my tongue for a bit, then asked if he minded if I showed him an easier way (it's awkward bringing up a subject like that, it's a bit like saying they are incompetent). He gratefully accepted, saying it was only the second puncture he'd sorted and it had been really hard last time! I showed him how to do it right, then we rode back together for a bit (he lives in the next village over from mine) - a really nice lad, I hope I bump into him again on my commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 01 April, 2010, 07:04:59 pm
3rd night in a row now that I have cycled home over the hills into the teeth of a gale laden with snow - not sticking to road, but a little uncomfortable....  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 01 April, 2010, 07:37:05 pm
This morning.  Tabbynwhite invader (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=31233.0) gets into the garage as I'm trying to get the bike out and starts 'playing'.  When (s)he hides behind the freezer I call MrsC for assistance and set off for work.  Although I'm now running late it wasn't too bad a ride.  More traffic than I really like but I can cope.

Get to work.  No keys.  Phone MrsC to make sure she doesn't leave the house and lock them in. Ride back home.  Get keys.  Ride back to work.  So no early finish for me today.   :-\

But, just to ensure this doesn't get moved into a rant thread, the ride home was good, despite being into a headwind. 

And we got a just-less-than-ten miler in at lunchtime.   :D

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 06 April, 2010, 08:50:11 am
Finally lost my rag with Menzies Aviation bus drivers.

The twunt this morning overtook me on a r/b then cut me up at the exit to said r/b....

Strongly worded letter sent to said bus company....

After that the rest of the ride in was an oasis of calm :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 April, 2010, 09:50:08 am
Odd commute, as I took the train with the lad and a folder.  Rode in to work through Vauxhall (How I hate that junction!) and Waterloo, where I went the wrong way :-[

Still, go to work OK, if a bit late...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 06 April, 2010, 10:23:24 am
Quote from: clarion on 06 April, 2010, 09:50:08 am
...and Waterloo, where I went the wrong way :-[

There's something about the roads near railway stations.  They always seem to be tortuously designed with multiple no-entries, one-ways, and lots of signs limiting whether you can go down there depending on whether you're a bus, taxi, mere-mortal in a car, or pedestrian (cyclists are of course rarely mentioned).

I've got lost around most of Londons railway stations now, mainly since I only very occasionally use them, although I was impressively organised with London Bridge and St Pancras the last time I visited, mainly through having lots of spare time to get lost in, so of course I didn't need it!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 06 April, 2010, 08:42:51 pm
Quote from: TimO on 06 April, 2010, 10:23:24 am
There's something about the roads near railway stations.  They always seem to be tortuously designed with multiple no-entries, one-ways, and lots of signs limiting whether you can go down there depending on whether you're a bus, taxi, mere-mortal in a car, or pedestrian (cyclists are of course rarely mentioned).
Reminds me of a time (several decades ago) when I arrived at Reading by train.  The roads round the station were so confusing that I'd done two complete laps of the one way system before I saw my turning, which was about five lanes over, so I had to go all the way round for a third time!

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 07 April, 2010, 07:24:56 am
(This might belong in the Rant thread.  Do we have a bike-specific rant page, rather than the one in the Pub?)

Driver of Blue Golf S11 EBE.

You are not behind the wheel of a Taxi.
You are not behind the wheel of a Bus.
You are not riding a bicycle.

So what, in the name of Satan's Suppurating Sphincter, makes you think you can use the Bike/Bus/Taxi-only turn?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Barnsdale on 07 April, 2010, 07:52:41 am
First commute on the bike for 6 weeks as I've been on paternity leave.  Sunny, not too cold, but road works and closed roads.  Still, my detour meant that I discovered a couple of new roads that I did not know about.  Still puzzled about when they will make their minds up about what sort of speed bumps will be installed in the cycle lane in Rotten Row (Hyde Park, London). 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 07 April, 2010, 07:57:10 am
During the weekend folly my right shoe tongue rubbed a sore on the front of my ankle.
Yesterday it was really painful and swollen with infection.
I tried to release it but now it is worse.  I slept terribly.
My diabetic right leg is always the problem.
No commute today for me, working from home so I can go to the clinic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 07 April, 2010, 08:34:11 am
Warm feet today and yesterday.  Lovely.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 07 April, 2010, 09:05:01 am
I was going to take the Orbea on the commute today.  It has a new toy on it.  An altimeter/stop watch/HRM cycle computer from Lidl.  But the ground was too wet so it's gonna have to wait.  I used the Roadrat with enormous mudguards as usual
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 April, 2010, 11:40:43 am
Fred took me up the hill to a hospital appointment this morning, then rushed me in to work.  Reasonably fast.  One chain unshipment.  Pretty uneventful.  I didn't notice Balham Hill.

I like riding bicycles, I do :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 07 April, 2010, 01:13:20 pm
Quite eventful...

(http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t299/jacomus-rides-Gen/photo5.jpg)
Right overshoe

(http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t299/jacomus-rides-Gen/photo2.jpg)
Left overshoe

(http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t299/jacomus-rides-Gen/photo3.jpg)
Left shoe sole scrapes

(http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t299/jacomus-rides-Gen/photo4.jpg)
Right shoe sole scrapes

(http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t299/jacomus-rides-Gen/photo-3.jpg)
Back of right lower calf


:( :(

I was putting down the power out of the saddle taking off from a big junction (http://maps.google.co.uk/maps/ms?hl=en&gl=uk&ie=UTF8&oe=UTF8&msa=0&msid=114381718295501472633.000483a434cad7cf5cefd&ll=51.488525,-0.11118&spn=0.001112,0.00284&t=k&z=19), focussing on the simultaneous pull/push of a proper sprint, when I yanked my right shoe out of the pedal on the upstroke.

The movie of that pro-cyclist who does the same thing and narrowly misses a lampost sprang to mind as my right foot skimmed along the tarmac. I so so nearly managed to save it, but my toe caught on a lump in the road and my leg was dragged backwards into the chainring (hence the calf damage). My balls were being firmly squished on the top tube at this point and the jolt made my left foot came unclipped which left me clinging onto the bars, sitting on the toptube with my feet dragging on either side of the rear wheel 'superman' style. The angle that I was at meant that I couldn't reach the brake levers, so had to simply hang on.

After much grinding and scraping I managed to pilot my stricken steed to the kerb which arrested my forward progress and dumped me in a heap on the pavement.

I was in quite some pain from the chainring bite and from the landing and stayed down and still until I could work out if anything was badly hurt. After beating every other cyclist apart from Emily off the line, a good 8 cyclists had seen events unfold and most of them stopped to see if I was ok which was heartening. There was a mildly amusing convo with a nice lady who came over and said that she was a first aider, I said that I was too and that I thought that I was find, I'd just taken a knock.

No damage to the bike, but those overshoes are gonners and I'm quite impressed with the amount of shoe missing! Somehow my bib-tights haven't got a mark on them despite what my leg shows.

My leg aches now, but no real damage has been done.

Waaaay too much excitement for a commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 April, 2010, 01:31:48 pm
Ouch.  Glad you managed to get out of the traffic before downing.  Hope it heals quickly.

That could leave you with a funky scar, mind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 07 April, 2010, 01:33:28 pm
Ow bugger!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 07 April, 2010, 01:35:44 pm
Quote from: Jacomus on 07 April, 2010, 01:13:20 pm
focussing on the simultaneous pull/push of a proper sprint, when I yanked my right shoe out of the pedal on the upstroke.


You need a dose of souplesse. 

I'll send you some in a pill.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MSeries on 07 April, 2010, 01:41:36 pm
that's why the track sprinters use straps as well. Roadman sprinters don't start from stationary.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 07 April, 2010, 01:49:32 pm
Ouch indeed.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
but all I can think about is that your leg would look so much nicer if it were shaved  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 07 April, 2010, 01:52:30 pm
Oh shaved would be nice, but waxed is *much* better.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 07 April, 2010, 01:54:50 pm
I agree, I should have said smooth legs  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 07 April, 2010, 02:53:24 pm
Oh lovely, its raining and my overshoes are now ex-overshoes.

Parceltape repair before going home tonight methinks ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 07 April, 2010, 03:04:41 pm
Quote from: clarion on 07 April, 2010, 01:31:48 pm
That could leave you with a funky scar, mind.
Looks like a tiger scratch to me ;).

Hope it feels better soon and you don't get too stiff or wet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 07 April, 2010, 03:23:36 pm
Quote from: Jacomus on 07 April, 2010, 02:53:24 pm
Parceltape repair before going home tonight methinks ::-)
Wouldn't a really big sticking plaster be better?  :D

Sounds like it was a much more interesting commute than one would like.  Hope your journey home is extremely boring, and that the leg isn't too sore!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 07 April, 2010, 06:40:38 pm
Likewise ouchie!

It sounds a bit like you mostly got away with it, but obviously not entirely.  Mandatory "Chicks dig scars". ;D

My commute today was quite quiet, I had to leave work early to take Talisker to the vets for his hyperthyroidism checkup, and so was cycling through Croydon at 4-30 which normally means I hit the start of the rush hour, but actually the traffic was quite light, so much easier than I expected.

It was nicer this morning, since it wasn't spitting and dull like this evening, but it's very mild out there.  I've switched over to the summer weight (ie non-waterproof) shoes, and was just wearing a jersey (and wishing that it was short sleeved this morning!)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 07 April, 2010, 08:45:34 pm
Jacomus - you twit!   ::-)    ;D

Get better soon - or I shall be round with the 'salve'...  ;)  :-*



And now for my commute rant...

What is it with all the fecking diesel over the roads today?

It was like trying to cycle on an ice rink...  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 April, 2010, 08:49:41 pm
Quote from: Regulator (a.k.a. DUG) on 07 April, 2010, 08:45:34 pm
And now for my commute rant...

What is it with all the fecking diesel over the roads today?

It was like trying to cycle on an ice rink...  >:(

Holy crap, yes.  Fred has v. narrow tyres for me, and I had some interesting moments...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 07 April, 2010, 09:26:50 pm
Quote from: Mr Nesbitt on 07 April, 2010, 01:41:36 pm
that's why the track sprinters use straps as well. Roadman sprinters don't start from stationary.

Yup.

Are your shoeplates worn? They don't hold so well if they're worn.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 08 April, 2010, 09:13:25 am
What a lovery day.  Sun, dry roads: cold yes but in a crisp way.
The sun is now strong enough to actually warm you with it's early morning rays
No headwind and the kidz are still on holiday so the traffic is light
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 April, 2010, 09:41:20 am
Yup.  All of that.  Fast too.  Two numpties to report to Roadsafelondon.  Done.  All is well :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MSeries on 08 April, 2010, 09:43:18 am
Quote from: Regulator (a.k.a. DUG) on 07 April, 2010, 08:45:34 pm
Jacomus - you twit!   ::-)    ;D

Get better soon - or I shall be round with the 'salve'...  ;)  :-*



And now for my commute rant...

What is it with all the fecking diesel over the roads today?

It was like trying to cycle on an ice rink...  >:(
Yup, that's what contributed to my last crash, been unable to ride since
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 08 April, 2010, 09:54:16 am
Cool and windy last night, sunny and crisp this morning, WITH ZERO numpties....

Maybe I was too early for them :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 08 April, 2010, 10:18:35 am
First day in shorts rather than longs.  :thumbsup:

5 minutes faster than Tuesday and only one driver tring to give me a heart attack.

he was turning right out of the garage forecourt across the approaching 15 tonne lorry straight at my side. cue step change in cadence from ~90rpm (29kph) to ~105 rpm (34kph) to get out of the way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 08 April, 2010, 10:24:02 am
7 miles out from york, a puncture (in the Pasela on the rear). NP, stop, pull out wheel, oh heck, it's the Pasela on Chrina, hell to get off. Discover on tyre lever is broken. NP, I have 3. Get tyre off. Can't find puncture. Traffic roaring by, so can't 'listen' for air coming out of tube. Check tyre over, can't find puncture. Replace tube. Break one of 2 remaining tyre levers getting tyre back on.

Wheel back in frame, pump up, get to 90psi, pump breaks. Oh buggeration. this is the nearly new RoadMorph, and the shaft has broken off from the valve/piston. I'm 18miles from work, 7 miles from home. Walk back to a junction, cross road and cycle home. Then take train to work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim on 08 April, 2010, 10:30:32 am
Pleasant sunny pootle this morning, but I'm sure the bike is getting heavier.

I wonder how deep the open cast mine* is going to be just here (http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?hl=en&ie=UTF8&hq&ll=51.287863,-0.262105&spn=0,0.013068&z=16&layer=c&cbll=51.287916,-0.261995&panoid=JNNnnmDgJIgJFGUkCrl3bw&cbp=12,228.47,,0,13.94) when I go home.

Though it would be nice of them to reroute the road before the tunnelling to Oz started.

*The pot hole is producing lumps chunkier than half bricks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 08 April, 2010, 10:41:45 am
Lovely ride in this morning...

They've even started filling in the potholes along Mill Road*







*OK, they're only patch fills which will be all over the road within 24 hrs, but it was such a nie morning I don't feel justified in grumbling.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 08 April, 2010, 10:56:08 am
Flipping 'eck, the A202 between New Cross and Peckham was hairy today. It does not help that there are huge Thames Water roadworks and excavations going on which lets the traffic build up terribly, cars and vans feel very irritable about it all and they feel that they have to ride aggressively to get somewhere. Only the cyclists can serenely sail past them and the buses and onto better climes, like Camberwell, Elephant and Castle...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 08 April, 2010, 11:30:31 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 08 April, 2010, 10:24:02 am
...Can't find puncture. Traffic roaring by, so can't 'listen' for air coming out of tube. ...

Handy hint; "feel" for it on your face.  If you hold the tyre up near your face and move it along, you'll often easily feel the air from the leak on your face (assuming that it's not in a howling gale).  You can also do it with the back of your hand, but I don't find that quite as sensitive.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 08 April, 2010, 11:50:23 am
Cars were passing 4 ft away at 60mph, and there was a gusty 15-30mph wind so it was a bit too rough for that trick. It's what I usually do.

I've emailed chain reaction about the pump. I'm a bit p!ssed that a £29 pump would break like this. Only used it 4 times.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 April, 2010, 11:58:52 am
Charly, ya daftie!  It's pointless trying to fix a p*nct*re beside the road.  Carry a spare tube - much easier. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 08 April, 2010, 12:02:02 pm
I do and did.

Was trying to find puncture so I could locate whatever caused the puncture - no point putting in another tube if there is a thorn/glass stuck in tyre.  Suspect it was glass as I'd passed over remains of broken bottle 3 miles back (still no cuts in Kryllion).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 April, 2010, 12:08:21 pm
OK, fair enough.  I'd not picked that up.  And you certainly don't want to put a new tube in just to have that p*nct*re.

I use a Marathon Plus in the first place, which means that, if anything gets through, it's something like a javelin or a pneumatic drill that you can see sticking out from 50m away ;D

I also do a visual inspect of the tyre, inside & out, and cautiously run my hand round the inside.  In the past (i.e. with inferior tyres), I've found a few pieces of glass this way, and not injured my hand.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 08 April, 2010, 12:10:03 pm
I realised I am a weather god.  My birthday is at the start of the Month, I get presents and this makes me happy.  So the sun and gentle zephyrs create perfect cycling conditions.  All worship me  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 09 April, 2010, 09:35:47 am
Yesterday evening I took a long route home (15 miles rather than 8.5).

Then this morning I can only assume I had a tail wind. Fastest ride in in a long time, though having another cyclist on my wheel for the first 2/3rds of the ride helped as I did not sit up as much as usual. I just wish he had taken a turn on the front.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 09 April, 2010, 11:52:30 am
Passed a chap in civvies pootling along on a road bike last night. Nothing unusual in that, except that his bike the loosest chain I've ever seen - a good couple of inches droop in the bottom run. I'm not sure how it stayed on (or even if it did!).

And this was on a geared bike, with the rear mech pulled as far back as it could go on its spring (i.e. taking up as much slack as it could). I guess he'd bought a new chain and not chopped it down to length.

Didn't get chance to talk to him, unfortunately, the traffic was too heavy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 09 April, 2010, 12:46:46 pm
On my way in this morning I foolishly stopped at a red light (well, the junction of Waterloo Place and Strand is not an ideal place for RLJing even if I was that way inclined).  Silly me, I should have realised that by doing this I was blocking the way for some poor motorist who then proceeded to drive into my back wheel.  I guess I should have realised that, for some motorists, it counts for nothing that the traffic light is shiny bright red and there is someone directly in front of them in the queue.

I thought it might be nice to take a picture of him to share with others, so got my camera out.  Poor beleagured motorist got out of his car and tried to throw me and my bike to the side of the road so that he could drive on.  He was a little rude in the process.  Lots of jolly passers-by started yelling at him.  He got back in his car.

And the light was still red, and the sun was still shining.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 April, 2010, 02:52:12 pm
I hope you can share your jolly holiday snaps with us :thumbsup:

Hope your bike & you are not too badly hurt.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 09 April, 2010, 03:10:34 pm
I'm fine and my bike is fine, thank you.  Oddly enough, this was not the first rear-end shunt of the week (fnaarr) as my brother-in-law crashed into me at E&C roundabout on Tuesday morning.

Frustratingly, the camera was not feeling very co-operative and I've just got one nice picture of the motorist returning to his car and one of my foot.

Mind you, the police (to whom I reported this assault) tell me that they're checking for availability of CCTV footage of that junction.  Does anyone know if I'm likely to get in trouble if I post it on youtube?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 09 April, 2010, 03:58:38 pm
I'm sure Wendy will be along in a minute to relate any experiences he''s had after posting on YouTube, but I'd go for it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tourist Tony on 09 April, 2010, 05:22:10 pm
What a very mixed day!
I finished the last of my night shifts this morning, rode home on a lovely spring day and grabbed afew hours sleep. Up at half twelve, and off to Crawley on a contrived error to get a run out, the excuse being to get some mapsof the Loughborough/EMA area.
Back past the Beehive, where the council have put up several signs telling cyclists that cycling on the footpath is completely banned. It is also impossible, as all the footpaths are so full of cars that pedestrians cannotpass. No camera with me, but I shall return on another day....
Then onto the "muddy path" Sustrans route out of Gatwick, which is no longer muddy. That is because it is now fine gravel.....and on to a major supermarket, for a bottle of wine and a film for tonight. Up to the cycle rack, and lock mine upnext to a rather spiffy S-Works with all sorts of goodies, single-sided fork, Twin Headlights of Death, etc. I nattered with a rather nice African chap about the bike; it later turned out he knew the owner.
As soon as the nice chap departed, a nice Irish chap came across from his tarmaccing wagon and started trying to pull off the lights. We talked.....
"What are you doing?"
"I'm nicking it"
"No you're not!"
"Oh, I didn't know it was yours"
His three friends then turned up, wanting a "pleasant chat" to pretend that they were not thieving bastards, and eventually they drove off. I took plate details, and contacted security.
The owner was waiting for me when I returned to my bike, with the babylon on his phone. A nice three-way chat ensued, and it turned out that the estimated value of the bike is around five grand. Owner was a very nice guy, lives just around the corner from me, and we had one of those cyclists' natters that makes the world seem warmer. Followed by a pleasantly swift run back home.
He may turn up on an FNRttC, or even here, so make him welcome!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 09 April, 2010, 05:35:38 pm
That's quite some brass neck, trying to nick it while you were right next to it.

It's funny how when you commute the same way every day, even minor changes become exciting events. For example, this morning the cooncil workers who have been strimmering the Bingham undergrowth this week were doing something else. I don't know what, but they were putting cones out on the grass and there were four on the path which I enjoyed cycling through, pretending it was a slalom. And a little further on their lorry was parked taking up the full width of the path so I had to get off and push round it. Small changes, but quite an event. Oh, and the blown down tree is finally gone.
 
Also, it is officially the end of the singing out loud season - far too many flies now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 09 April, 2010, 06:37:43 pm
Quote from: Tourist Tony on 09 April, 2010, 05:22:10 pm
As soon as the nice chap departed, a nice Irish chap came across from his tarmaccing wagon and started trying to pull off the lights

Unbelievable.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 09 April, 2010, 07:00:58 pm
5 other bikes on the commute home tonight.
One roadie going my way, who whooshed past with a cheery greeting, another commuter coming the other way, then three people in ordinary clothes, just out for a ride in the sunshine.

5 is a lot of bike for round here!

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pauldavies50 on 10 April, 2010, 08:01:18 pm
Re: On the commute YESTERDAY.

I like to say a big fat thank you to 'Tourist Tony' for saving my beloved S-Works Enduro yesterday from the clutches of a thief in Tesco Gatwick carpark.

THANK YOU
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 10 April, 2010, 08:27:03 pm
Well done Tony. (http://jakal.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/smilies/clap.gif)

...and welcome to the forum pauldavies50.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 10 April, 2010, 08:38:41 pm
Absolutely :thumbsup:
Well done Tony and welcome Paul :D.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 April, 2010, 08:47:36 pm
Tony's a star.  Welcome Paul. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tourist Tony on 10 April, 2010, 09:23:16 pm
Hi Paul!
Again......
Still laughing!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tourist Tony on 10 April, 2010, 09:26:27 pm
PS
his lighting set up puts even Zipperhead's to shame......
Nagged him to go on an FNRttC so we could all bask in the glare
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 10 April, 2010, 10:11:29 pm
Nice work Tony, and welcome Paul.

While I'm here, I've got a picture of the chap who had a go at me yesterday.  I'm not sure I'm cut out to be much of a photojournalist.
(http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f130/PaulRide/DSCF1215.jpg)

But I was pleased to see that I captured the gorgeous salmon coloured Stratton in the background.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tourist Tony on 10 April, 2010, 10:13:31 pm
Just thinking of Mikey.....
"Whatchoo gonna do, bitch (sic)?"
"Check you tube tonight...."
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 April, 2010, 10:37:41 am
Headwind this morning, but I still managed 56mins.

Friday night I left work a bit late, and was concerned we wouldn't be able to get the lad to his youth club in time.  I pedalled hard on the 85" top gear, and, despite stopping several times to check for messages, in case I was to meet Butterfly & Superstoker anywhere else, I got home just in time to turn around and go out (no dinner till late :( ).  But pleasingly fast.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tourist Tony on 12 April, 2010, 11:14:22 am
Hopped atrain to get to Horsham (the A264 is a seriously scary road in the dark) and ran firstly into a couple returning from Majorca with their S&S equipped tandem, and then a random lady Bromptonista. The tandemers turned out to be friends of Tim Hall, and the Brommer was into Moultons, and we just nattered bikes and 'bents and trikes and.....
Just nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 12 April, 2010, 07:57:25 pm
Nearly got taken out by a Honda which didn't give way at a mini-roundabout.  This happens a lot when you're turning right across oncoming traffic - best to assume they are going to pretend you're not there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 12 April, 2010, 08:51:24 pm
Spotted a group of plainclothes coppers waiting to go for a raid this morn. 7 big blokes, with short-short haircuts, hiking jackets, blue jeans and Brasher/Lowe boots clustered round a dark blue transit was what tipped me off. My suspicions were confirmed when a woman emerged from the back of the van carrying her coat, exposing her stab vest with a big 'POLICE' patch on the front as well as one of the other coppers shouting "Put yer jacket on ya daft bastid, we're supposed to be U/C!"

p.s. Bloody headwind >:-(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 12 April, 2010, 09:55:02 pm
I'm struggling with the 'freeze in the morning and boil to death on the way home' lark.  I'm sure I'll crack it one day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jellied on 13 April, 2010, 08:15:56 am
First commute in over 10 days

Sun shining
No strange noises from the bike
No slack chain
Everything works
Massive traffic jam on other side of the road
Birds singing.

Doesn't get much better than this.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 13 April, 2010, 08:32:49 am
No traffic jams to feel smug about for me, but lambs, daffodils, primroses etc probably made up for this.  Still a chill in the air - it was down to 40 but there was the promise of warmth to come.  As I got to the top of the hills the sun was cresting the ridges behind me and everything was suffused in an wonderful pinky-orange glow, which left me almost awestruck for a mile or so until I remembered I was wearing my rose-tinted glasses. (Well, orange-tinted).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 13 April, 2010, 08:35:29 am
Tried a new route today to avoid The Highway and all its potholes. Got a little lost, found my way, got very lost and then, serendipitously found myself back on route and half a mile closer than I thought I was :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 13 April, 2010, 08:48:09 am
Slow, cold ride in today.

Had a couple of bad nights sleep so my brain is not operating at 100%.  Got to work, found my jumper, undies and socks, then realised that my jeans are still in my hotel room :(

Just waiting for the shops to open now so I can go and buy some....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 13 April, 2010, 08:52:26 am
Fantastic two-minute cycle into work once again this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 13 April, 2010, 08:53:06 am
First sub 2 hour round trip commute this year last night.  This was thanks to a stonking tailwind on the on the A38 coming home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 13 April, 2010, 09:17:24 am
Headwind. RARGH!

Otherwise, very pleasant indeed :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 13 April, 2010, 09:23:57 am
Quote from: Jacomus on 13 April, 2010, 09:17:24 am
Headwind. RARGH!

Otherwise, very pleasant indeed :)

Me too. Doesn't matter though cos with any luck we'll be blown home tonight!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 13 April, 2010, 09:25:53 am
considerably preferable to having the tail wind on the way to work and knowing the journey home will be a slog.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 13 April, 2010, 09:26:43 am
Bah, I had a headwind yesterday, but it didn't seem to help that much on the way home.

The headwind in was worse this morning (although I was quite a bit earlier, so maybe that effected it!)

When I come in early, from Clapham Common onwards, there are always a lot of cyclists on Queenstown Road, and a lot of them seem to have little road sense. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 April, 2010, 09:46:19 am
Again a headwind.  Again 56mins.  Last night, I got home in 54mins (there may have been a tailwind for part of it ;) ).

Tonight, I'll have a circuitous route home, via Brentford :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 13 April, 2010, 09:46:49 am
Quote from: matthew on 13 April, 2010, 09:25:53 am
considerably preferable to having the tail wind on the way to work and knowing the journey home will be a slog.

Which is how it is has been for me the last few weeks! Makes a nice change.

Quote from: TimO on 13 April, 2010, 09:26:43 am

When I come in early, from Clapham Common onwards, there are always a lot of cyclists on Queenstown Road, and a lot of them seem to have little road sense. :-\

I've been trying really hard not to whinge about this, because I know more cyclists is undoubtedly a Good Thing.

But since Easter there have been tons of cyclists on the road who don't seem to have a clue and I've needed to have my wits about me in order to avoid accidents even more than usual. I've been very restrained in only posting a ranty thread about one of them. But if it carries on I may need to unleash the Wrath normally reserved for people wot take me offroading :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 13 April, 2010, 09:48:58 am
Quote from: pauldavies50 on 10 April, 2010, 08:01:18 pm
Re: On the commute YESTERDAY.

I like to say a big fat thank you to 'Tourist Tony' for saving my beloved S-Works Enduro yesterday from the clutches of a thief in Tesco Gatwick carpark.

THANK YOU

You know those one-person crime waves you hear about?

Our TT is a one-person anti-crime wave. Specialises in tackling people in the front of supermarkets.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 April, 2010, 09:50:23 am
I got a wonderful feeling approaching the junction at the top of Clapham High Street.  There was a bunch of cyclists waiting at the lights looking like the start of a sportive from a distance.

Of course, the amount of pavement riding, red light jumping, zebra crashing, cutting up etc proved to be greatly increased :(

Still, we were all n00bs once, and at least they're out on their bikes...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ed_o_brain on 13 April, 2010, 09:52:52 am
Gah. Horrendous ride in. Worse bike ride since the day I was knocked off last year. I hit rush hour as I decided before I left to do a tyre swap. This meant I could ride in on the new commuting machine which I'd set-up the week prior - however with not enough tyre clearance. It's nice to be back on a drop bar bike for everyday riding!

There was a lot of bad driving (does the post-Easter sun make people more absent minded?) and once I reached the Manchester conurbation, a lot of bad cycling too.

All that can be taken in stride so wouldn't really dampen my spirits. However, one motorist had a good go at knocking me off by pushing his way through a gap that wasn't there and then afterwards it all got very unpleasant. I guess he thought I was the reason he was late for work?

Looking forward too tomorrow. Will be out nice and early. Should be a good one.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul D on 13 April, 2010, 05:00:15 pm
Are you people at work? What a shame for you. When the weather is this good I don't commute, I holiday. ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 13 April, 2010, 05:02:52 pm
I'm sure I had a baseball bat near me when I last looked!  >:( >:( >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 13 April, 2010, 05:18:13 pm
Quote from: Paul D on 13 April, 2010, 05:00:15 pm
Are you people at work? What a shame for you. When the weather is this good I don't commute, I holiday. ;)

working from home does have some advantages :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul D on 13 April, 2010, 08:25:07 pm
No working from home, just the good fortune to a) have a teacher for a partner and b) taken leave to coincide with her half term.

Don't worry, I'm far too busy doing stuff in my newly-bought house to go out on the bike (although I did get lightly sunburnt in the garden this afternon giving my Roberts a clean).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 13 April, 2010, 08:27:37 pm
Forgot to get a proper lunch today, then worked late. The ride home wass going great until I hit the headwind. The last 8 miles were grim. I ate a banana in one mouthful when I got in the door. Haven't stopped eating since.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 13 April, 2010, 08:53:12 pm
Cycled to our tiny little Library in Waterloo library to be told that there was a cock-up with the staffing, so I got told to get back to Clapham Library. 2 miles south of Waterloo, my back wheel seems decidedly low on the old air, sure enough: p*ncture. Bah. Pushed it to Clapham and fixed it in my lunch hour. Then, whilst fixing it spotted broken spoke, which had wrapped itself into my cassette.  >:( LBS were kind enough to take a HUGE pair of pliers and remove it until I get it replaced on Friday. Nice ride home (barring seemingly idiotic Easter crowd) but what a frustrating day. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 14 April, 2010, 09:25:37 am
VERY fast back last night, then out for a few drinks in Brentford.

Was plodding this morning until I caught up with Chris(non-forumite), and then we bombed along to UXB.  I was aiming for a 35 minute ride in (before catchup) but this became a 30 minute ride in, and I arrived all out of breath and sweaty :(

EDIT: but I did remember my trousers today  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 14 April, 2010, 09:55:49 am
Coming round a corner I felt the 'ping' of a stone exiting from beneath the rear tyre...



... followed shortly by the sound of breaking glass.  I looked back over my shoulder and - yep - it just *had* to be the windscreen of the Porsche 911  :-[

The car was parked in residents parking, so I knocked on a few doors but no-one knew who it belonged to.  I left a message on the car and popped into the police station to report (I know I don't have to but I am an honest person).

Just waiting for the owner to call.  Hopefully they'll be full comp and it will be covered by their insurance.  If not, my insurers will have to fork out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 14 April, 2010, 10:01:45 am
Oops!  Can you really be held to blame for a stone chip like that?  I'd understand if you were driving negligently fast on a newly laid surface full of chips, but behaving carefully?  Surely just wear and tear, and a normal risk to keeping your car parked on the public highway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 14 April, 2010, 10:05:56 am
Quote from: Wendy on 14 April, 2010, 10:01:45 am
Oops!  Can you really be held to blame for a stone chip like that?  I'd understand if you were driving negligently fast on a newly laid surface full of chips, but behaving carefully?  Surely just wear and tear, and a normal risk to keeping your car parked on the public highway.

I think that's why a lot of insurers will pay out without it affecting your no claims bonus.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 14 April, 2010, 10:47:32 am
This morning was supposed to be a low energy, rest day style commute

And it was until I got half way down Blagdon Hill.  At this point I joined the back of a queue of cars behind a lorry with a tractor on it's trailer.  First I overtook the car ahead of me because I didn't like the way it was going.  Then I maintained 30mph behind the next car for about a mile.  When we got to a small hill I started pounding up it at 25mph get back behind the car but then I remembered I was supposed to be going slowly.  So I eased off and a queue of about a dozen cars went past.

Trouble is the Orbea likes going fast.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 14 April, 2010, 10:55:00 am
I screwed up on yesterday's commute - filtering past a long queue of cars on the offside of the offside lane towards the same junction from the cyclist gets a fright video.  I get to the front, but have left too little time before the lights change and surprise the driver on the nearside lane by my appearance in the ASL.  Oops, my bad timing and paying attention.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ed_o_brain on 14 April, 2010, 12:01:54 pm
A good commute in today, 200% better than yesterday!

The motons all behaved, more or less. Apart from one idiot who pulled out on me whilst I was riding down hill at somewhere near 30 mph. However, thankfully his move was well anticipated.

I found some legs so maintained an average in the high teens despite the northerly head wind. In total contrast to yesterday, there were fewer cyclists, most of whom were riding to a better standard.

Had a nice chat with a young american chap who I think left me for dead yesterday on the way home! He steamed past as tho I was track standing. Today when I spoke to him, he told me how he only travels from Didsbury to Stockport but detours via Wilmslow and Reddish!! He strode off climbing up the hill on the A6 out of Stockport on his black/grey/white soot bike, a BMC with ultegra and Fulcrum 3 wheels.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 16 April, 2010, 10:41:50 am
Golly! Six cyclists last night.  That's about ooh six more than usual.  Five of them quite sociable.  The stand-offish bod is (or was) a Swindon RC rider.  Odd that because Swindon RC riders I've encountered in the past have been fairly affable. Oh well never mind.


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 16 April, 2010, 06:58:00 pm
Commuting too fast. I really need to learn to pootle it before the weather gets much warmer. Or, as well as perspiring in an uncouth fashion, I might go arse over tit. Also exhibiting marked Tourette's-type symptoms while riding this week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 19 April, 2010, 08:25:09 am
FAST ride in this morning, no wind, quiet traffic (prolly 'cos of all the planes parked up next to my route!)

Lets see if tonight's is as fast :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 April, 2010, 09:26:12 am
Not so fast for me.  I didn't have it together.  Still managed within an hour, but it didn't flow so well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tourist Tony on 19 April, 2010, 11:14:04 am
Got sent homw yesterday evening as we are down to a skeleton staff. Decided that as it was a nice evening, I would go to the Folk Club by way of the main road, a fast dual carriageway, which I usually avoid by taking the train as it can be a bit hairy. Fourteen miles of "time-trialling" later I popped into a Wetherspoon's and had a proper meal and a decent pint of Jennings'.
 ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pippa on 19 April, 2010, 08:15:59 pm
Cycling in this morning I was stopped in some traffic near Tower Bridge and opted against filtering through the traffic - I wasn't really in a rush and about 3 cars down was a big ol'HGV that I didn't want to get too close to.

Whilst waiting for the traffic to get moving again I heard the familiar sound of a freewheel behind me and looked round to see a guy inna suit on some sort of MTB with knobbly tyres. He decided to filter up on the inside of the traffic and as he went past shouted, "and you're narrower than me!". I opted to take that as a compliment.

Anyhoo, as he approached the HGV he started going up the inside. I started eeeping. The HGV started moving and did the cyclist stop? Nope, he grabbed the back of it and let it pull him along!  :o I have NEVER seen anything quite like it! I hope I don't again. It can't be a very sensible thing to do....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 19 April, 2010, 08:21:50 pm
Quote from: Pippa on 19 April, 2010, 08:15:59 pm
... The HGV started moving and did the cyclist stop? Nope, he grabbed the back of it and let it pull him along!  :o I have NEVER seen anything quite like it! I hope I don't again. It can't be a very sensible thing to do....

Stupid and very dangerous.

Skaters call this skitching, and certainly the odd skater in London has been prosecuted doing it behind buses and the like.  Possibly it's more dangerous with a bike, since you can't get as close to the vehicle (I'm not sure I want to work out which is the most lethal...)

Oh well, think of it as evolution in action, and keep well away from people like that.  If the traffic doesn't get them, then something else will.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 19 April, 2010, 08:31:18 pm
Quote from: TimO on 19 April, 2010, 08:21:50 pm

Skaters call this skitching, and certainly the odd skater in London has been prosecuted doing it behind buses and the like. 

I guess (having never tried this sort of stunt) as a skater, potential injuries are limited (sic) to those that can be dealt out by the towing vehicle and the tarmac. Without adding a few kilo of pointy / tubie / ally / plastic / carbon fibre components into the mix.

So that's all right then  ::-)

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 19 April, 2010, 09:19:19 pm
As has become my habit. I pedalled constantly and stayed in the one gear.

But I was on the geared bike & when I realised that's what I was doing, felt a little foolish...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 19 April, 2010, 09:23:14 pm
*cough*  skitching.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 19 April, 2010, 10:00:59 pm
First commute for April due to the holidays for me.
On Mrs Dan's new bike, which was strangely upright for me.
Unusual to see the vapour in my breath while wearing shorts and t shirt, it felt refreshingly cool rather than wishing I'd brought a more sensible top to work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 19 April, 2010, 10:11:43 pm
Quote from: Pippa on 19 April, 2010, 08:15:59 pm
Cycling in this morning I was stopped in some traffic near Tower Bridge and opted against filtering through the traffic - I wasn't really in a rush and about 3 cars down was a big ol'HGV that I didn't want to get too close to.

Anyhoo, as he approached the HGV he started going up the inside. I started eeeping. The HGV started moving and did the cyclist stop? Nope, he grabbed the back of it and let it pull him along!  :o I have NEVER seen anything quite like it! I hope I don't again. It can't be a very sensible thing to do....

It is illegal for good reason.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 20 April, 2010, 08:11:37 am
Brrrr. Wrong gloves this morning.  Ouchy ouchy ouchy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 20 April, 2010, 09:06:18 am
I told a fellow cyclist, as discreetly and kindly as I could, that her lycra 3/4 lengths were completely see-through in the bright sunshine. She was surprised but grateful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 20 April, 2010, 09:23:02 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 20 April, 2010, 09:06:18 am
I told a fellow cyclist, as discreetly and kindly as I could, that her lycra 3/4 lengths were completely see-through in the bright sunshine. She was surprised but grateful.

Last week I told a fellow cyclist that her leggings (not cycling tights) were showing about half of her nekkid bottom. She said she knew, but didn't want to stop to sort it out  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jellied on 20 April, 2010, 09:26:27 am
Perhaps the first outing of the fingerless gloves this year was permature.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 20 April, 2010, 10:20:27 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 20 April, 2010, 09:06:18 am
I told a fellow cyclist, as discreetly and kindly as I could, that her lycra 3/4 lengths were completely see-through in the bright sunshine. She was surprised but grateful.

Spoilsport!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 20 April, 2010, 12:36:02 pm
This morning I was overtaken by a cyclist straight out of a Rapha catalogue picture.

The guy was riding a Condor fixie in grey and pink 'colourway'. SIDI mtb shoes. Rapha socks, Rapha 3/4 tights, Rapha short-sleeve jersey and a Rapha Musette bag.


Otherwise a pleasing ride, aside from twatinnabmw who beeped me then undertook me with inches to spare, right before a traffic jam.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 20 April, 2010, 12:54:07 pm
Am I really bad for finding the juxtaposition of these two msgs funny?
Quote from: little miss mac on 20 April, 2010, 09:23:02 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 20 April, 2010, 09:06:18 am
I told a fellow cyclist, as discreetly and kindly as I could, that her lycra 3/4 lengths were completely see-through in the bright sunshine. She was surprised but grateful.

Last week I told a fellow cyclist that her leggings (not cycling tights) were showing about half of her nekkid bottom. She said she knew, but didn't want to stop to sort it out  ;D

And

Quote from: jellied on 20 April, 2010, 09:26:27 am
Perhaps the first outing of the fingerless gloves this year was permature.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 20 April, 2010, 01:19:40 pm
I've been wearing mitts for weeks now.  I'm still wearing long tights however, because it's often a bit brisker at one end of my commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 20 April, 2010, 02:00:30 pm
In on the recumbent today. 

Gong past a bunch of school kids

"Now that is plain lazy"  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 20 April, 2010, 05:26:00 pm
I left the war pig at home today took my norty soot bike instead.

I was having so much fun I went for a little detour on the way home, over Epsom Downs.  It's times like this, when the sun is shining that make it all worthwhile
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 20 April, 2010, 09:29:57 pm
Hit a pothole tonight. Tyre flat within 20 yards. When I got the tube out, I couldn't get enough air in to see where it was coming out. Luckily I carry a spare tube.

Need to buy a new one tomorrow.


Edit: two 8mm long slits in the tube. Looks like Marathon Supremes can't do anything about snake bites.   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 21 April, 2010, 09:22:14 am
It seemed to be 'Every Idiot Driver Try and Get Greg Day' this morning.  I've never had so many near misses with car doors being opened on me (and before you have a go, there are some parts of my commute where you are in the door zone whether you like it or not due to the narrowness of the roads and the idiots parked either side), drivers pulling out on me or in on me, or twats on phones ad nauseam...  >:( >:( >:(


...but I did top the Mill Road Bridge at 20.3 mph without being out of breath!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 21 April, 2010, 09:24:00 am
Awesome on the speed and fitness!!

p.s. you must have been carrying a camera and "looking for trouble", DUG!!  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 21 April, 2010, 09:29:49 am
Rode through a load of unavoidable white stuff. Thought it was milk. Seems to be paint  >:( Hope the tyres are not ruined. Rollocks.

Why is everyone wearing high-viz waterproofs?  ??? Sun is splitting the trees.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 April, 2010, 09:31:47 am
Bit nippy to start with, but a great day to be out riding.  Usual numpties, but I was back on my normal bike, and zooming along as fast as on the skinny tyred forum bike.  And it's so comfortable!  Gosh, I love that bike! :-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 21 April, 2010, 09:41:13 am
Despite the appalling traffic and crowds of, as others have observed, fluorescent rain-jacketed cyclists whose riding style and general road sense and courtesy are perhaps not quite what we would all aspire to, today's commute was nearly perfect.  Fresh, bright, a gentle headwind to make sure I didn't get too lazy, a cheery chap who tinkled his bell at me because I think he wanted to squeeze past the traffic waiting at the red light and he clearly thought that his bike would fit where mine definitely wouldn't, and who grinned when I turned round and rang my bell back at him; splendid bright views across the Thames, nose-to-tail traffic on Waterloo Bridge (and therefore a good opportunity to practise low speed bike-handling skills).

Only marred by the fact that our trainee (yes, the patronising helmet-preaching one) has locked her stupid bike in the place where I like to lock mine.  If the ride hadn't been so agreeable, I might have been tempted to take advantage of the fact that the way she had locked her bike up would have enabled me to turn her bike completely upside down and out of my way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 21 April, 2010, 09:45:37 am
Nice ride in today although disappointed not to witness any of the type of wardrobe malfunctions described yesterday :( Roads were quiet and drivers gave plenty of space, just the I encountered on Parliament Square who decided to dart in front of me  ::-)

I noticed a lot more riders today, and some of them were really quite fast!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 21 April, 2010, 10:05:03 am
All the rain-jacketed ones must be boiling. Such gorgeous weather, I am just in a longsleeved jersey at the moment. And hopefully 3/4s that don't show any more than they're supposed to!

Also went over Waterloo Bridge, hate the traffic there at the moment. I think I p*ss off others because I filter quite cautiously, but there are cyclists nipping in and out everywhere so you have to. A fakenger-type squeezed past on my left, almost clipping me, and then tried to squeeze through another gap between a bus and a moped just as the moped was moving, clipping his back wheel on the moped's front wheel quite hard. He did eventually raise his hand to say sorry (a cynic might say it was when he realized he was stuck right in front of the moped after that as there really was no more space). Eejit.

Yesterday there was a mother (or nanny/au pair of some sort) screaming hysterically at her two little kids on Albert Embankment - they were running off down the road quite a way ahead of her paying no attention whatsoever. A cyclist in front of me caught them up, stopped and told them 'Go back to your mother NOW!' very firmly. They looked slightly dumbstruck and stopped for a minute before turning round and heading back.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 21 April, 2010, 10:16:05 am
On the way home last night

A transit van passes me, with a small car very close behind. What's that between them? Ah, 10ft of blue poly rope.

Towing with a bit of crappy poly rope, at 60mph on a dual carriageway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 21 April, 2010, 10:23:06 am
It was so cold I had a mild ice cream headache when I got to work
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Marco Stefano on 21 April, 2010, 10:27:08 am
Colder than I thought it might be, knees and shins chilly. Head ok.

Daily numpty was the woman driving east on the Southery-Feltwell road (straight & Fen-bumpy) at least at the speed limit, busily applying skin cleanser to her face whilst looking at herself in the sun visor mirror.  >:(  Luckily for me, I was travelling west.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 21 April, 2010, 10:34:22 am
Last night, as I exited a set of lights, road narrows from 2 lanes to one, car ahead turning right.  Poxy little golf tries passing me, realises he is not going to get past car that is turning right so he swerves hard left, whilst alongside me.  Cue "OI!!!" from me, I accelerate so I am in front of said numpty and then turn around a scream "Fuckwit" at him.  His destination? The row of shops on the lefthand side, the entrance to which is just beyond where the other car is turning right!!!!

This morning it was cold, even more so as I had left both my windproof jacket and my gilet at work!!! So a slower than normal ride in...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 21 April, 2010, 01:13:01 pm
I certainly couldn't cycle in any sort of waterproof at the moment.  I've been cycling in with a short sleeved jersey, and if it's later on my way home, put my thin fleece over the top of that.

I was sort of amused by a motorcyclists this morning, who was trying to fit between a moving bus and articulated lorry around here (http://maps.google.co.uk/?ie=UTF8&ll=51.424654,-0.13057&spn=0,0.009645&t=h&z=17&layer=c&cbll=51.424768,-0.130622&panoid=vaE8cNpm5l_pL-RUcsQaPw&cbp=12,352.46,,0,13.31) (Streatham High Road, near the Ice Rink).  Once that bus had pulled up, he zoomed forwards a couple of hundred feet, and tried it on again with a coach and some other traffic.  A total idiot.  If he'd managed to get in between them, the risk of being crushed as traffic was moving was not insignificant.  The first bus driver obviously saw what he was doing and put his right indicator on, not that it stopped him.

Ho hum, at least he wasn't threatening my life, mainly just his own.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 21 April, 2010, 01:13:49 pm
It was a lovely, if chilly, ride today and there were definitely more cyclists than usual, mostly female :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 21 April, 2010, 01:48:23 pm
I knew there was a reason I should have cycled....

Passenger in the car at J4 of the M3, on the roundabout when the two vehicles infront decided to collide.

The Securicor van decided he was going to go round the roundabout further from lane 3 of 4. the astra van in lane 4 was taking the fourth lane of the exit and suddenly found himself with the securicor van trying to enter the left side of his vehicle. Fortunately we were going further round and the astra avoided the barriers as he found his backend knocked sideways and then caught the van as it snapped the other way.

I got dropped off at the entrance to the business park and returned to the scene to provide details as a witness.

.... I don't go that way when I cycle.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 21 April, 2010, 02:05:39 pm
Not chilly here.  I am puzzled this month. Why do I stop at work?

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 21 April, 2010, 09:18:36 pm
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 21 April, 2010, 02:05:39 pm
Not chilly here.  I am puzzled this month. Why do I stop at work?



Because if you didn't, it'd be a CommuteTooFar?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 21 April, 2010, 09:52:45 pm
I had my bike disinfected.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spesh on 21 April, 2010, 10:07:40 pm
Quote from: boab on 21 April, 2010, 09:52:45 pm
I had my bike disinfected.



Bike dipping season?

Or were you caught up in a biohazard emergency exercise?  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 21 April, 2010, 10:32:32 pm
Quote from: spesh on 21 April, 2010, 10:07:40 pm
Quote from: boab on 21 April, 2010, 09:52:45 pm
I had my bike disinfected.



Bike dipping season?

Or were you caught up in a biohazard emergency exercise?  ;D

Biohazard. And no exercise, this is for real. Honestly. We have suspect classical swine fever (http://www.defra.gov.uk/foodfarm/farmanimal/diseases/atoz/csf/factsheet.htm#suspicion). It's notifiable.
AH have us on lock-down pending confirm or deny.
Realistically, it shouldn't be that, but better safe than sorry.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spesh on 21 April, 2010, 10:47:50 pm
Quote from: boab on 21 April, 2010, 10:32:32 pm
Quote from: spesh on 21 April, 2010, 10:07:40 pm
Quote from: boab on 21 April, 2010, 09:52:45 pm
I had my bike disinfected.



Bike dipping season?

Or were you caught up in a biohazard emergency exercise?  ;D

Biohazard. And no exercise, this is for real. Honestly. We have suspect classical swine fever (http://www.defra.gov.uk/foodfarm/farmanimal/diseases/atoz/csf/factsheet.htm#suspicion). It's notifiable.
AH have us on lock-down pending confirm or deny.
Realistically, it shouldn't be that, but better safe than sorry.

Fingers crossed...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 22 April, 2010, 07:18:14 am
Quote from: boab on 21 April, 2010, 09:52:45 pm
I had my bike disinfected.

Not good, I presume you have seen farmer's cars and 4X4's from the period of F&M?  That disinfectant really brings out the tinworm....

Just make sure you give it a really really good wash off as soon as poss.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 22 April, 2010, 07:48:13 am
Good run last night.  Fast type from Burford on a kinetic-one soot bike caught up with me about 2 miles in and kept me company (and had the charity not to push it too hard) until Netherton where MrsLurk was waiting to escort me the last 5 miles or so home whereat he disappeared in a (red-shifted) cloud of dust while me & MrsLurk bimbled home.

Another chilly run in this AM, but bonus Barn Owl spotting.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 22 April, 2010, 08:40:08 am
Work at home today so my 'commute' was a quick lap of Richmond Park. Lovely still, crisp morning with a touch of frost on the ground. At one point found myself riding in a cloud of parakeets :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 22 April, 2010, 09:00:54 am
Ride home last night in best time this year, 47 minutes for 24km
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 April, 2010, 09:22:48 am
Home in 1h1m last night.  Fast, but not neatly so.

In to work in 56mins this morning.  23kph ave.  I'm happy with that. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 22 April, 2010, 09:30:18 am
Quote from: PaulF on 22 April, 2010, 08:40:08 am
Work at home today so my 'commute' was a quick lap of Richmond Park. Lovely still, crisp morning with a touch of frost on the ground. At one point found myself riding in a cloud of parakeets :)

I'd like a photograph of this incident
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 22 April, 2010, 09:33:03 am
Colourblind pedestrian. He darted in front of me on a green light, and I stopped in time. He pointed at the (green) light and said sanctimoniously 'It's a red light'!

Very strange.

And I can vouch for the fact that there are millions of parakeets in RP :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 22 April, 2010, 10:09:14 am
Riding up to the approach to albert Bridge this morning I had some sanctimonious pedestrian shout "You're supposed to dismount" at me. Thing is, I was on the cycle path at the time and a good fifty feet or so from where I needed to get off.
The fact that I got off and walked (as I do every morning and evening) meant that he gets the little victory of thinking that he's made a difference I suppose.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 22 April, 2010, 10:39:58 am
Cycling to a different library site today and came to an abrupt stop on the Camberwell Road (A215), the police had cordoned off an area as someone had just been stabbed. Apart from a small diversion and then back onto the Walworth Road, it was bus free and full of disconcerted pedestrians waiting for their buses.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 22 April, 2010, 10:47:05 am
Quote from: alexb on 22 April, 2010, 10:09:14 am
Riding up to the approach to albert Bridge this morning I had some sanctimonious pedestrian shout "You're supposed to dismount" at me. Thing is, I was on the cycle path at the time and a good fifty feet or so from where I needed to get off.
The fact that I got off and walked (as I do every morning and evening) meant that he gets the little victory of thinking that he's made a difference I suppose.

Ooh that would really wind me up, that would!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 22 April, 2010, 10:56:46 am
I was mashing up the hill on the A4119 between  Rhydlafar and Radyr.  A road bike comes up behind me and the rider advises me to shift into a lower gear because I would be able to climb faster.  I point down and tell him it is not easy to shift single speed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 22 April, 2010, 10:59:53 am
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 22 April, 2010, 10:56:46 am
I was mashing up the hill on the A4119 between  Rhydlafar and Radyr.  A road bike comes up behind me and the rider advises me to shift into a lower gear because I would be able to climb faster.  I point down and tell him it is not easy to shift single speed.

I had that from an American rider on the first hill outside Cheshunt on LEL.

Him: "You should shift to a lower gear, climbing at that cadence isn't good for your knees."
Me: "I'm in my lowest gear."
Him: "Oh, then try a higher gear then, don't tell me you Brits refer to gears the other way round too?"
Me: "I'm in my highest gear."
Him: *looks down* "Oh. You're mad."
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 22 April, 2010, 11:00:34 am
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 22 April, 2010, 10:56:46 am
I was mashing up the hill on the A4119 between  Rhydlafar and Radyr.  A road bike comes up behind me and the rider advises me to shift into a lower gear because I would be able to climb faster.  I point down and tell him it is not easy to shift single speed.


 ;D ;D ;D Awesome.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Manotea on 22 April, 2010, 11:04:55 am
Quote from: Greenbank on 22 April, 2010, 10:59:53 am
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 22 April, 2010, 10:56:46 am
I was mashing up the hill on the A4119 between  Rhydlafar and Radyr.  A road bike comes up behind me and the rider advises me to shift into a lower gear because I would be able to climb faster.  I point down and tell him it is not easy to shift single speed.

I had that from an American rider on the first hill outside Cheshunt on LEL.

Him: "You should shift to a lower gear, climbing at that cadence isn't good for your knees."
Me: "I'm in my lowest gear."
Him: "Oh, then try a higher gear then, don't tell me you Brits refer to gears the other way round too?"
Me: "I'm in my highest gear."
Him: *looks down* "Oh. You're mad."

Out with the not-so Mini Manoteas cycling along a flat piece of coast on Hols when we hit a steep climb up a coastal 'down'. Ms Manotea the Elder had a mini-strop. "It's OK for you. You've only got one gear and we've got 21 AND THEY ARE ALL WRONG!".

She calmed down after an emergency jelly baby or two.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 22 April, 2010, 11:20:05 am
Lovely sunny day and hardly any wind resulted in my fastest average speed of the year so far (17.7 mph over 18.3 miles).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tom M on 22 April, 2010, 11:39:12 am
By the cycle hoops I use at work I found two largish looking flags packaged up. One is Barbados, one St. Lucia. Odd...

Left them there for a couple of days to see if anyone would look for them, but still about, so now in my posession.

Anyone have a fancy for some carribean flags?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 22 April, 2010, 11:42:08 am
Quote from: Tom M on 22 April, 2010, 11:39:12 am
Anyone have a fancy for some carribean flags?
Do you have a flag? (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uEx5G-GOS1k)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 22 April, 2010, 12:39:36 pm
Quote from: Manotea on 22 April, 2010, 11:04:55 am

Out with the not-so Mini Manoteas cycling along a flat piece of coast on Hols when we hit a steep climb up a coastal 'down'. Ms Manotea the Elder had a mini-strop. "It's OK for you. You've only got one gear and we've got 21 AND THEY ARE ALL WRONG!".

She calmed down after an emergency jelly baby or two.

Ahaahaahaaahaaaahaahahahahaha!!!!   ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ed_o_brain on 22 April, 2010, 01:30:19 pm
I had a lovely ride in today in the sunshine. Just my toes went a bit numb in the cold.
I can't believe we are getting frosts! It is nearly May!

I was reasonably quick too. Fastest time yet on the Kona.

Only one idiot, who walked over and apologised to me afterwards on the work car park.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 22 April, 2010, 01:36:10 pm
Quote from: Manotea on 22 April, 2010, 11:04:55 am
Out with the not-so Mini Manoteas cycling along a flat piece of coast on Hols when we hit a steep climb up a coastal 'down'. Ms Manotea the Elder had a mini-strop. "It's OK for you. You've only got one gear and we've got 21 AND THEY ARE ALL WRONG!".

That's fabulous. POTD
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Frenchie on 22 April, 2010, 09:05:55 pm
Lovely day, if very cold, for a ride! One my way at 6:25 and quickly into action to warm up. Second morning in a row. Very, very few people out... OTOH so many new cyclists and runners in the evening this week (some trialing their fancy/fashionable kit). Were are they all coming from?! He?  ;)

At work one colleague commented on how dirty my Langster was; sure, I felt like saying, but it's been piling on the miles for months, when your bike was been shined up I guess! No, for me, it is definitely not about the bike (but about the cycling)!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 22 April, 2010, 10:21:33 pm
Eventful journey home.
Frayed front brake cable resulting in locked solid brake.  (Serious resistance training)

On arrival home I found that no matter how much I twisted, I couldn't disengage my left SPD.  In the end I had to release my foot from the shoe and then get all medieval on it until I got it off the pedal.  Looks like a bolt has sheered and the SPD thingy on my shoe is just floating around.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 23 April, 2010, 09:01:33 am
Beautiful ride in this morning, I'm full of the joys of cycling :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 April, 2010, 09:03:45 am
Gah!  Normally I would be griping/rejoicing about the commute, but I'm stuck at home, waiting to go to a GP appointment. 

Should be an interesting commute later, though.  I'll be carrying loaded panniers and a tent! :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 23 April, 2010, 09:35:30 am
Saw an eviscerated deer in the road near Wallaces Farm shop.  It was quite young.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: darkpoint on 23 April, 2010, 09:51:11 am
Riding home last night at about 21:00 as I approached Camberwell, a chap crossed the road in front of me,   saw me coming stopped looked at me to confirm that I was going to cycle behind him, and then stuck his leg out behind him, in what I assume was an very attempt to get me to crash into it.. 

Me shouting Oi, resulted in the leg being waggled about a bit more.

There was space clear of his leg behind him, so I used that.    But I can't think what he was trying to do,  that sort of impact while it could bring me down,  would in all likely hood break his ankle or really muck up his knee.
All I could think of is that I was on my way home from collecting my race number for the London marathon, and how any kind of spill would result in me having to withdraw, and that would really annoy me..
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 23 April, 2010, 10:10:24 am
Quote from: darkpoint on 23 April, 2010, 09:51:11 am
Riding home last night at about 21:00 as I approached Camberwell, a chap crossed the road in front of me,   saw me coming stopped looked at me to confirm that I was going to cycle behind him, and then stuck his leg out behind him, in what I assume was an very attempt to get me to crash into it.. 

Me shouting Oi, resulted in the leg being waggled about a bit more.

There was space clear of his leg behind him, so I used that.    But I can't think what he was trying to do,  that sort of impact while it could bring me down,  would in all likely hood break his ankle or really muck up his knee.
All I could think of is that I was on my way home from collecting my race number for the London marathon, and how any kind of spill would result in me having to withdraw, and that would really annoy me..

Feckin hell, thats just bad Russ - Good Luck for Saturday!  I cycle through Camberwell nearly every day, but last night as I was cycling back from Waterloo I discovered quite a nice cycling route which goes through Burgess Park and out into Peckham, which completely bypasses Camberwell - luverly.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 23 April, 2010, 10:13:26 am
I wish this weather would make up it's mind. 0 - 2 degrees in the morning, 15-16 riding home. I need two different tops for riding in and going home!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 23 April, 2010, 10:24:14 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 23 April, 2010, 10:13:26 am
I wish this weather would make up it's mind. 0 - 2 degrees in the morning, 15-16 riding home. I need two different tops for riding in and going home!

I just use arm warmers and a base layer in the mornings. Same short-sleeve jersey for both journeys.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 23 April, 2010, 10:27:13 am
Quote from: Greenbank on 23 April, 2010, 10:24:14 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 23 April, 2010, 10:13:26 am
I wish this weather would make up it's mind. 0 - 2 degrees in the morning, 15-16 riding home. I need two different tops for riding in and going home!

I just use arm warmers and a base layer in the mornings. Same short-sleeve jersey for both journeys.

+1, although in reverse since I've been leaving home at 16.30 and coming back at 22.00
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MSeries on 23 April, 2010, 10:29:04 am
First single speed commute today, weird. Lot's of freewheeling waiting for me to slow down to allow the gear to catch. Felt quite slow on the descents.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 23 April, 2010, 10:31:57 am
You're back on the bike!
 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 April, 2010, 12:07:24 pm
Quote from: clarion on 23 April, 2010, 09:03:45 am
Gah!  Normally I would be griping/rejoicing about the commute, but I'm stuck at home, waiting to go to a GP appointment. 

Should be an interesting commute later, though.  I'll be carrying loaded panniers and a tent! :o

Doned it!  It was a bit slower (c10%), but not bad.  A lot of that was because I wimped out of E&C RAB for the ridiculously crap cycle bypass (Incidentally, I hear that this will be the Superhighway 'solution' for this junction ::-) ).

I reflected that, with about 5kg each side in panniers and a 2.5kg tent, I was carrying about the same weight as I did when i started cycling again! :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 23 April, 2010, 01:32:46 pm
Quote from: clarion on 23 April, 2010, 12:07:24 pm
...A lot of that was because I wimped out of E&C RAB for the ridiculously crap cycle bypass ...

What's that?  I only cycled through there last weekend, and it seemed the same as normal ie lethal, but not too bad so long as you hit it as fast as you can.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 23 April, 2010, 01:35:18 pm
Quote from: TimO on 23 April, 2010, 01:32:46 pm
Quote from: clarion on 23 April, 2010, 12:07:24 pm
...A lot of that was because I wimped out of E&C RAB for the ridiculously crap cycle bypass ...

What's that?  I only cycled through there last weekend, and it seemed the same as normal ie lethal, but not too bad so long as you hit it as fast as you can.

True, but Clarion doesn't have the lung capacity for that kind of shenanigans at the mo.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 April, 2010, 01:39:02 pm
I normally come through Walworth/E&C twice a day, and you're right, matching speed is important.  Carrying my camping kit, I wasn't so confident of doing that.  There are a lot of drivers round there who haven't a clue about lanes, and that's why one young woman got killed there not so long ago.

The cycle route goes either side of the RABs, through a series of 'facilities', starting, if you're heading north, with a sharp left turn into a narrow lane.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 April, 2010, 01:39:36 pm
Quote from: Jacomus on 23 April, 2010, 01:35:18 pm
Quote from: TimO on 23 April, 2010, 01:32:46 pm
Quote from: clarion on 23 April, 2010, 12:07:24 pm
...A lot of that was because I wimped out of E&C RAB for the ridiculously crap cycle bypass ...

What's that?  I only cycled through there last weekend, and it seemed the same as normal ie lethal, but not too bad so long as you hit it as fast as you can.

True, but Clarion doesn't have the lung capacity for that kind of shenanigans at the mo.

Not loaded up, no. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 23 April, 2010, 02:30:38 pm
Today I took my favourite diversion on the way to work.  The I speak thy sloth machine on the handle bars indicated I had a more time to get there.  So instead of continuing on the A473 and into Pencoed I branched onto the B4280 through Heol y Cyw and climbed up Heol Llan to get the descent off the common into Coity. I sprinted into the village so I didn't need to pedal much to get up past the primary school. Turned left before the Castle. I noticed that the except buses and bicycles road was still obstructed but I took it anyway. Then mostly downhill to work.  Altogether a much more interesting and fun way to work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 23 April, 2010, 02:54:45 pm
Quote from: clarion on 23 April, 2010, 01:39:36 pm
Quote from: Jacomus on 23 April, 2010, 01:35:18 pm
Quote from: TimO on 23 April, 2010, 01:32:46 pm
Quote from: clarion on 23 April, 2010, 12:07:24 pm
...A lot of that was because I wimped out of E&C RAB for the ridiculously crap cycle bypass ...

What's that?  I only cycled through there last weekend, and it seemed the same as normal ie lethal, but not too bad so long as you hit it as fast as you can.

True, but Clarion doesn't have the lung capacity for that kind of shenanigans at the mo.

Not loaded up, no. ;D

You're finishing my sentences... it must be love, love, love ;)

*note to self* if you have to hurridly get off yacf because you are posting at work, just close the window and restore when the threat of being spotted has passed instead of posting 50% of it - thingz will be makin the moar senses
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 23 April, 2010, 03:15:14 pm
I wasn't criticising Clarion, I really didn't know that there was any cycling bypass around E&C.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 23 April, 2010, 03:20:17 pm
The cycle bypass of E & C is marked on the TFL maps. I use it when I'm escorting newbies round that way and don't want to force them to cycle round at speed if it's busy.

It is pretty rubbish and I once got lost heading south and ended up pottering round an estate in the dark in a state of confusion! It's much slower, but probably safer if you're a nervous newbie.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 April, 2010, 03:34:27 pm
I've done the N-S eastern section twice.  It's rubbish.  I've done the S-N western one three times.  It's beyond that.  There's one place where there are big one way signs sending you left, and you have to go right - not into the road you're crossing, but across any unsuspecting turning traffic into a little lane.  Tight right angled bends are common, unsignposted turns are there too, and there is one bit where I have gone wrong (as in going the wrong way along a cycle lane wrong) all three times.  Oh - and the lights for crossings change as you approach.

There is No Way At All that this route can handle anything like the cycle traffic that comes through the Elephant.  Not a Chance, Boris.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 23 April, 2010, 05:04:02 pm
<fx: gets out bike maps from buried bit of desk and looks>

Ah right.  I thought you meant some sort of facility on or near to E&C itself, but you mean the little meandering routes going in roughly the same direction and requiring you to cross numerous roads where the cars have priority.

Totally agree with you, that sort of thing is pants, and if that's what Boris is going to be pushing for E&C then it's not going to work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 26 April, 2010, 08:48:43 am
Oh what a perfect commute!

The sun was shining, just enough to make it summery, but not enough to be blinding. My clothes gave me the perfect balance of warmth. Traffic was minimal (I was on the road 0622-0655). The air tasted sweet. My legs had loads of power and my lungs efficiency rating must have been sky high. Headwind - minimal. All capped off by a prime parking space in the bike shed and an hour and a half to myself to get some work done.

*bliss* :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 26 April, 2010, 10:45:46 am
I commuted in on Regina this morning (I want to show her to a few people at work).

Lots of wide overtakes and motorists hanging back without overtaking...  :thumbsup: ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 26 April, 2010, 12:07:29 pm
Pulled up at a set of lights this morning and stared in horror at the chap in front, whose quick release on his back wheel was entirely open. I pointed this out to him and said he'd better sort it out immediately... to which he thanked me then set off when the lights turned green as if nothing was amiss.

An odd bike, by the way. Hybrid, in Google livery (white with Google logo down the tubing).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 26 April, 2010, 12:09:09 pm
He may be one of those who uses the quick release lever like a spanner - just rotating it until it is tight, rather than flicking it over on the cam to pull it in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JJ on 26 April, 2010, 12:40:56 pm
Riding in with an empty Bob Yak (guitars to shuffle later), I was pressing on over Fen Causeway when there was a crash-scrape behind and I looked round to see a total absense of trailor wheel.  Not lying in the gutter, not mangled in the carriageway, just absent.  It took me about 10 minutes of poking around in the nettles to find it.

The QR is a bit dodgy.  Perhaps I'll loop a pair of zip-ties over it.

Rear QR open isn't too bad.  The worst that's likely is a jammed back wheel. I found out the hard way, years ago that a front wheel coming off is Not a Good Thing.  I still recall the scary hospital matron scrubbing gravel out of my face with a nail brush <shudder>
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 26 April, 2010, 06:46:16 pm
Hotel at the South-west corner of Abingdon to place-of-work in dead centre (triangle of nothingness) in Didcot.  7 miles, 33 mins by Brompton, almost all on NCN route 5.  I got overtaken by anybody and everybody.  (37 mins back this evening - headwind?  And getting a bit lost didn't help.)

I won't hear a word against that bit of NCN.  Adequate surface (small-wheel-friendly), reasonably good sightlines, courteous car drivers on the on-road bit through Sutton Courtenay, flat, well-signed, and well-used.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 26 April, 2010, 06:57:58 pm
A nice circular 13 mile route back from work.  Being out on Regina in the evening sun reminds me why I like being a cyclist...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 26 April, 2010, 07:00:06 pm
Awesome ride home.  Well fast due to a tail wind and not having a Carradice or Bagman on the bag of the Etape.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 26 April, 2010, 07:57:57 pm
Interesting ride in this morning.  They were resurfacing the road through the village as I was trying to ride along it.
And the road from the edge of the village to the edge of Yeovil.
Nasty gritty slidey stuff.

But the lunch ride was great!

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 27 April, 2010, 09:26:41 am
Broke my chain on the way in today, bugger.

Only 2km from work, so I pushed and rolled down the hills.

I guess the ticking feeling I was getting through the pedals was trying to tell me something.

No chain tool so off to the LBS to ask nicely if I can use theirs. Or buy a joining link (it's a 1/8 chain on my fixie).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 27 April, 2010, 11:52:10 am
Found my path blocked by a bunch of geocachers on a bridge (I have the same cache stored as a poi on my phone), but despite this, averaged 17.3 over 17.64 miles. Didn't feel fast, and I wasn't focussed this morning (just had to look on the phone to check which way I went - was on autopilot this morning), so it must have been wind assisted. I suspect I will pay on the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 27 April, 2010, 12:03:02 pm
Quote from: DrMekon on 27 April, 2010, 11:52:10 am
Found my path blocked by a bunch of geocachers on a bridge (I have the same cache stored as a poi on my phone), but despite this, averaged 17.3 over 17.64 miles. Didn't feel fast, and I wasn't focussed this morning (just had to look on the phone to check which way I went - was on autopilot this morning), so it must have been wind assisted. I suspect I will pay on the way home.

Ooh!  Which cache?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 27 April, 2010, 06:11:27 pm
I saw Mr TimeTrial again this morning.

I see him every now and then, in a blur of speed, always in roughly the same place. Along Kennington Road he can be (briefly) seen hammering along, on the TT bars on a red Spesh / Cervelo.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 27 April, 2010, 08:34:20 pm
I got a complement!

A young roadie on a nice CF bike pulled alongside me "You ride to York" I'm a bit taken aback "How do you know that?"
"I normally drive, I've seen you on the dual carriageway. You've got really good style."

Wow, I didn't know what to say. So I just said it was a product of being slow, so I'd learned to be efficient. He then told me I didn't look slow, he was heading back via the country roads and pulled away like I was standing still.

That's probably the first time someone has complemented me on my riding  :)

I was very inspired by that, and I won't be on my bike for 6 days (donating blood tomorrow, then it's the bank holiday). So I trundled along at a good pace, 3 miles from home realised that if I kept up 20mph it would be a record run. Made it, 1hr 16min for 24.5miles.  That's really scorching for me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 27 April, 2010, 08:59:45 pm
Quote from: Regulator (a.k.a. DUG) on 27 April, 2010, 12:03:02 pm
Quote from: DrMekon on 27 April, 2010, 11:52:10 am
Found my path blocked by a bunch of geocachers on a bridge (I have the same cache stored as a poi on my phone), but despite this, averaged 17.3 over 17.64 miles. Didn't feel fast, and I wasn't focussed this morning (just had to look on the phone to check which way I went - was on autopilot this morning), so it must have been wind assisted. I suspect I will pay on the way home.

Ooh!  Which cache?

It looked like a bunch of students and some teachers, so my guess is that they were going for this one

http://www.geocaching.com/seek/cache_details.aspx?guid=2ad021d3-b3d6-4f74-9af5-0b8c83715244

Or it could havfase been the Nine Wells one.

Seems like I am having a good day. Averaged 18.2mph over 15 miles on the way home. It's making me want a fast bike, or even a 'bent. Found myself going through the options on an ICE B1.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 28 April, 2010, 05:49:31 am
Yesterday was the first time this year that I noticed significant bug activity.  After a bee tried to fly into my mouth I decided it was now time to stop riding whilst agape.  Well for a few months anyway.

This nice weather is bringing out more riders on my commute too however all but one have been in the opposite direction.

The cows are also out of the winter shed storage and back into the fields so I have a muck run to traverse too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 28 April, 2010, 07:49:29 am
Quote from: Grub on 28 April, 2010, 05:49:31 am
Yesterday was the first time this year that I noticed significant bug activity.  After a bee tried to fly into my mouth I decided it was now time to stop riding whilst agape.  Well for a few months anyway.
I've had to stop singing.  :'( I suspect everyone I pass is now  :D .
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 28 April, 2010, 09:11:58 am
It felt a bit like the Freewheel (or Skyride or whatever) at points today. Which, as those who've done the Freewheel will know, is mostly a Good Thing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 28 April, 2010, 06:15:54 pm
Got to work and found that I'd neglected to fasten either strap on the barley's flap.
Those of you that know the angle an unsupported barley hangs at will be as amazed as I was that both the plastic carrier bag containing shirt, tie and socks and the box containing my lunch were still in there.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 28 April, 2010, 06:20:18 pm
Quote from: Grub on 28 April, 2010, 05:49:31 am
This nice weather is bringing out more riders on my commute too however all but one have been in the opposite direction.

You're going the same speed as everyone else going in your direction. Either slow down and let them catch you or get a move on and catch them. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 28 April, 2010, 07:31:03 pm
I did 25 miles today which included commute and visits to two hospitals (work purposes) and one client and every single mile of it was into a headwind. Even though I travelled in several different directions over the course of the day. Clearly the weather gnomes are envious of my new bike.

In other news, Edinburgh drivers' reenactment of Wacky Races yesterday has continued today as well.  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 29 April, 2010, 07:59:34 am
A very short conversation yesterday evening on ascending Netherton hill1...

  TheLurker  (drawing level with TheOtherCyclist)     
   - Aye, aye. Don't you just loathe hills?

  TheOtherCyclist (who is struggling up the hill) 
  - Yeah, but I'm not wearing lycra shorts.

Made me laugh out loud. It has to be one of the best cycling put downs/come backs/non sequiturs2 I've heard for quite a while.

1Which is not an especially nasty hill.
2Classify according to your own rules.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 29 April, 2010, 10:14:03 am
I followed a Bendy Bus along the A23 between Thornton Heath Pond and Norbury, which shouldn't be notable, except I've never seen one in that part of London before.

He didn't appear to have any passengers or route number displayed, so I hope he was just transporting it somewhere, and not testing out its suitability for the route. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Frenchie on 29 April, 2010, 10:30:13 pm
Rain. tonight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 29 April, 2010, 10:56:33 pm
Quote from: Frenchie on 29 April, 2010, 10:30:13 pm
Rain. tonight.

Sweet, wasn't it?  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: redshift on 29 April, 2010, 11:22:10 pm
Coming home tonight, I watched with bated breath as the motorcyclist who'd just overtaken me was nearly wiped out - the car which overtook him whilst he was passing me swung back in to turn left at the next junction before being clear of the motorcyclist.  The biker was edged sideways by the car (not sure if there was contact) and had to use his horn to warn the driver that he was there.

Unfortunately, the car was a white Vauxhall covered in stripes, as it was a marked patrol car, driven by one of GMP's finest.  I got the registration number, but couldn't catch the motorcyclist to tell him, so now I'm wondering whether to send a stiff email to GMP's driving standards department myself, or just post a note on MotorCycle News' forum.  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Torslanda on 29 April, 2010, 11:31:41 pm
Quote from: redshift on 29 April, 2010, 11:22:10 pm
Coming home tonight, I watched with bated breath as the motorcyclist who'd just overtaken me was nearly wiped out - the car which overtook him whilst he was passing me swung back in to turn left at the next junction before being clear of the motorcyclist.  The biker was edged sideways by the car (not sure if there was contact) and had to use his horn to warn the driver that he was there.

Unfortunately, the car was a white Vauxhall covered in stripes, as it was a marked patrol car, driven by one of GMP's finest.  I got the registration number, but couldn't catch the motorcyclist to tell him, so now I'm wondering whether to send a stiff email to GMP's driving standards department myself, or just post a note on MotorCycle News' forum.  >:(

Once upon a time a police officer was required to have completed the advance driving course before being let loose in a patrol vehicle of ANY description.

I believe the regulations changed which allowed officers to drive patrol vehicles without having completed the course.

I didn't realise they'd changed again to allow anyone with a licence out of a lucky bag!

Name and shame, I say! Post it on here. Send it to GMP. Give it to MCN.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 29 April, 2010, 11:36:39 pm
Quote from: torslanda on 29 April, 2010, 11:31:41 pm

Name and shame, I say! Post it on here. Send it to GMP. Give it to MCN.

That ^
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: redshift on 30 April, 2010, 12:58:31 am
I have filled in the complaint form on GMP's website, with details of incident/time/location/registration plate number.  I have no idea whether the motorcyclist might complain, but I may put some info on MCN's forum, just in case.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Frenchie on 30 April, 2010, 08:07:44 am
Quote from: Basil on 29 April, 2010, 10:56:33 pm
Quote from: Frenchie on 29 April, 2010, 10:30:13 pm
Rain. tonight.

Sweet, wasn't it?  :thumbsup:

Really?!  :-\  Not on my commute I'm afraid. I got rather wet!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 30 April, 2010, 08:17:08 am
Quote from: redshift on 29 April, 2010, 11:22:10 pm
Coming home tonight, I watched with bated breath as the motorcyclist who'd just overtaken me was nearly wiped out -

Unfortunately, the car was a white Vauxhall covered in stripes, as it was a marked patrol car, driven by one of GMP's finest. 

falling standards everywhere?

 Re: The bad news thread
« Reply #50 on: April 22, 2010, 03:01:10 PM » Reply with quote | Modify message | Remove message 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Been out for a quickie...typically for today I "enjoyed " a SMIDSY with a police car
No harm done apart from PC's ego

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Be carefull out there people
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 30 April, 2010, 08:21:12 am
How apposite. This is what I saw on my commute today..

(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3253/4565223760_df7dc1f833_b.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 30 April, 2010, 10:19:48 am
At least I got a commute today! :thumbsup:

Four days off the bike and feeling terrible.  But this morning, I got the train with a 'hon.  Felt good riding up to the station, and pootling through from LB to work.  Sad that the computer tried to escape from the forks into the spokes.

But I've been really fed up wheezing at home, and last night I took Superstoker to his club night, and sighed heavily as they all set off without me.  I was really jealous.

So not a long ride, but a special one.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 30 April, 2010, 11:35:36 am
This morning I was so distracted by the fact that the guy who serviced my bike last week had moved the rear light up the seatpost so I couldn't adjust my saddle mid-ride when it slipped (as I don't normally carry the philips screwdriver required to move the light clamp back down again) and the clamp was catching my new tights, and the seat was uncomfortable, that I rode into the kerb and almost fell off.

Happily, no other cyclists around to laugh at me, and it happened in a nice, wide, empty bus lane.  :-[ ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 30 April, 2010, 07:36:35 pm
What I should have said: "You don't know the rules of the road, everything you've said is wrong, and compounding your mistake by trying to force me onto the pavement crossed the line from stupidity to criminality".

What I did say: "Try reading the Highway Code and not the effing Ladybird version, you stupid ****."

 >:(

Still, one ranty nutter every month or two isn't too bad.  And I gave him a big thumbs up as I overtook him again in the massive queue of traffic ;D :thumbsup:

(Edited to remove sweariness: probably more appropriate to the RANT thread...)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 30 April, 2010, 08:07:18 pm
Saw a new twunt stunt today.

Pavement cyclist, bombing along, decides to rejoin the carriageway.  Flew off the footway and dumped himself off the kerb.....just inside a car indicating to turn left.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 30 April, 2010, 08:27:21 pm
Quote from: David Martin on 30 April, 2010, 08:21:12 am
How apposite. This is what I saw on my commute today..

(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3253/4565223760_df7dc1f833_b.jpg)

Apparently one of the police had a cut head. The pic online was taken well after they had got mine by email..
Evening Telegraph: News (http://www.eveningtelegraph.co.uk/output/2010/04/30/story14979027t0.shtm)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 03 May, 2010, 10:13:30 am
I am posting here merely because I can, being in the office on a bank holiday.

That said, it was almost a zero-traffic commute in central London - pretty rare. And every other person on a bike looked like they were on their way to FUN rather than the office.

I need to throw a few of these around:  >:( >:( >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 May, 2010, 11:43:30 am
Being on the way to anywhere on a bike is to already be at fun :)

But I understand your trio of >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: longers on 03 May, 2010, 12:20:02 pm
I'm at work n all. The only one in the whole firm here today. The ride was ok, nice and quiet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: redshift on 03 May, 2010, 01:43:09 pm
Working here too.  Still, the roads were quiet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 03 May, 2010, 05:53:00 pm
Well I'm also at work, but that's so I can use the laser printer and stuff. ;D

The trip in wasn't that quiet, and for a few miles around the Croydon end was actually very busy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: longers on 04 May, 2010, 07:44:35 am
I had a very poor overtake this morning by a lorry. I've managed to remember the reg plate, how do I go about tracing the owner of it please so I can complain? No company livery was noticed as it had a big container on the back.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 May, 2010, 09:11:38 am
First proper commute in in nearly two weeks.  Felt good, and was fast enough, given recent breathing issues.

I banged the side of a van that cut a corner as it passed me.  At the next traffic lights, as I was two vehicles ahead of him, I felt very vulnerable, especially as there were two nasty pinch points coming up before the relative safety of the bus lane. 

First the car passed, then a long gap before the van passed, nice & wide, just as the road widened. :thumbsup:

The nip in the air passing through this city's many shadows just served as a counterpoint for the lovely warmth of the sun on my arms and face.

It's good to be back. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 04 May, 2010, 10:04:21 am
A fairly benign commute in today, but when I got to this (http://maps.google.co.uk/?ie=UTF8&t=h&ll=51.441929,-0.1437&spn=0.000282,0.000603&z=21) roundabout, I was surprised to see that it's now been marked out as a four way stop.

Are four way stops even legal in the UK?  Possibly they haven't finished it, but at the moment there are basically straight double dotted "Give Way" lines from each road (instead of the curved Roundabout ones on the Google image).

That was an appalling roundabout, since westbound cars coming from Emmanuel Road rarely stop to see if anyone is crossing the roundabout (as I do every night from Cavendish Road towards Tooting Bec Common).  I'm not sure that a junction which no one understands is better. :-\ ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: delthebike on 04 May, 2010, 10:10:46 am
Quote from: TimO on 04 May, 2010, 10:04:21 am
A fairly benign commute in today, but when I got to this (http://maps.google.co.uk/?ie=UTF8&t=h&ll=51.441929,-0.1437&spn=0.000282,0.000603&z=21) roundabout, I was surprised to see that it's now been marked out as a four way stop.
Prep for traffic lights to go in perhaps.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 May, 2010, 10:12:23 am
I hope so.  It's a hazardous junction place where driver behaviour is hazardous for cyclists, whichever way you're going.  A rude shock after the Common.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 04 May, 2010, 11:58:37 am
Quote from: TimO on 04 May, 2010, 10:04:21 am
A fairly benign commute in today, but when I got to this (http://maps.google.co.uk/?ie=UTF8&t=h&ll=51.441929,-0.1437&spn=0.000282,0.000603&z=21) roundabout, I was surprised to see that it's now been marked out as a four way stop.

Are four way stops even legal in the UK?  Possibly they haven't finished it, but at the moment there are basically straight double dotted "Give Way" lines from each road (instead of the curved Roundabout ones on the Google image).

That was an appalling roundabout, since westbound cars coming from Emmanuel Road rarely stop to see if anyone is crossing the roundabout (as I do every night from Cavendish Road towards Tooting Bec Common).  I'm not sure that a junction which no one understands is better. :-\ ???

I'm guessing that the roundabout is going back in since they have just resurfaced the road. There are no poles or electrical works for traffic lights.

I'll be mad as hell if they don't resurface the bit on Cavendish Road which is full of huge potholes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Frenchie on 04 May, 2010, 12:23:32 pm
Nothing much to report; it was very cold at 6 and a bit this morning. 1h45 later I was at work, with a smile, but only just getting warmer! Lovely sunshine though and, at last, reduce wind levels. Are we really in May?!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gaz on 04 May, 2010, 01:46:37 pm
a relentless headwind today, everytime i looked at the speedo and felt like i was pushing it i was only doing around 18mph :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 04 May, 2010, 03:11:00 pm
Quote from: alexb on 04 May, 2010, 11:58:37 am
I'm guessing that the roundabout is going back in since they have just resurfaced the road. There are no poles or electrical works for traffic lights.

I'm not so sure, the original markings were curved, and the new ones are dead straight.  I suspect this is going to be left as a four way stop, which do seem to be used from time to time in the UK.  They appear to be meant to only be used on very lightly used residential roads, and it's arguable how lightly used this one is.  They also seem a mite pointless, since the rules are essentially the same as if you consider it a roundabout. :-\

Quote from: alexb on 04 May, 2010, 11:58:37 am
I'll be mad as hell if they don't resurface the bit on Cavendish Road which is full of huge potholes.

Yes, since that bit has been getting worse and worse over the last few months.  It's an exercise in slalom to avoid all the holes now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 04 May, 2010, 03:16:59 pm
Quote from: TimO on 04 May, 2010, 03:11:00 pm
Quote from: alexb on 04 May, 2010, 11:58:37 am
I'm guessing that the roundabout is going back in since they have just resurfaced the road. There are no poles or electrical works for traffic lights.

I'm not so sure, the original markings were curved, and the new ones are dead straight.  I suspect this is going to be left as a four way stop, which do seem to be used from time to time in the UK.  They appear to be meant to only be used on very lightly used residential roads, and it's arguable how lightly used this one is.  They also seem a mite pointless, since the rules are essentially the same as if you consider it a roundabout. :-\

Except if it was a 4-way stop. They would have solid lines, not dashed lines.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 04 May, 2010, 04:16:14 pm
Quote from: alexb on 04 May, 2010, 03:16:59 pm
Quote from: TimO on 04 May, 2010, 03:11:00 pm
Quote from: alexb on 04 May, 2010, 11:58:37 am
I'm guessing that the roundabout is going back in since they have just resurfaced the road. There are no poles or electrical works for traffic lights.

I'm not so sure, the original markings were curved, and the new ones are dead straight.  I suspect this is going to be left as a four way stop, which do seem to be used from time to time in the UK.  They appear to be meant to only be used on very lightly used residential roads, and it's arguable how lightly used this one is.  They also seem a mite pointless, since the rules are essentially the same as if you consider it a roundabout. :-\

Except if it was a 4-way stop. They would have solid lines, not dashed lines.

Actually, that doesn't seem to be the way (http://www.roadsuk.com/roadepedia/four-way_stop.html) that they are done in the UK.  Possibly the term is a little bit of a misnomer, they seem to be more like "Four Way Give Way".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: longers on 04 May, 2010, 07:17:04 pm
Sorry, can I ask again how to find the owner of a vehicle from the reg plate please? I would like to complain. I'm lucky to not need to complain very often but this one was worth it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 04 May, 2010, 07:35:36 pm
Quote from: longers on 04 May, 2010, 07:17:04 pm
Sorry, can I ask again how to find the owner of a vehicle from the reg plate please? I would like to complain. I'm lucky to not need to complain very often but this one was worth it.

I think you need to use Form V888 (http://www.direct.gov.uk/prod_consum_dg/groups/dg_digitalassets/@dg/@en/@motor/documents/digitalasset/dg_065303.pdf), which is sent to the DVLA.  It will cost you £2-50, and you will need a good reason for the request.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 04 May, 2010, 09:00:41 pm
Quote from: longers on 04 May, 2010, 07:17:04 pm
Sorry, can I ask again how to find the owner of a vehicle from the reg plate please? I would like to complain. I'm lucky to not need to complain very often but this one was worth it.

There isn't an easy method. Lots of sites (RAC etc) will identify a vehicle type from a reg plate but not the owner.

There's a CTC site for reporting bad driving (I can't find the link at the moment,) or perhaps just report it in writing to the Police?

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 04 May, 2010, 09:06:26 pm
Quote from: TimO on 04 May, 2010, 04:16:14 pm
Quote from: alexb on 04 May, 2010, 03:16:59 pm
Quote from: TimO on 04 May, 2010, 03:11:00 pm
Quote from: alexb on 04 May, 2010, 11:58:37 am
I'm guessing that the roundabout is going back in since they have just resurfaced the road. There are no poles or electrical works for traffic lights.

I'm not so sure, the original markings were curved, and the new ones are dead straight.  I suspect this is going to be left as a four way stop, which do seem to be used from time to time in the UK.  They appear to be meant to only be used on very lightly used residential roads, and it's arguable how lightly used this one is.  They also seem a mite pointless, since the rules are essentially the same as if you consider it a roundabout. :-\

Except if it was a 4-way stop. They would have solid lines, not dashed lines.

Actually, that doesn't seem to be the way (http://www.roadsuk.com/roadepedia/four-way_stop.html) that they are done in the UK.  Possibly the term is a little bit of a misnomer, they seem to be more like "Four Way Give Way".

Looks as though you're right Tim, the road markings all seemed to be finished tonight, but no sign of a roundabout. however, the cars seemed puzzled by the new tarmac and paint and I did get my right of way which was sort of a shock in the circumstances.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 04 May, 2010, 10:11:56 pm
I actually had a commute today.Not the usual hop across the landing from bedroom to office.I've put the essential details in the "Have You Been Out Today" thread 'cause  it's as much a holiday as business excuse or visa versa IYSWIM :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 05 May, 2010, 11:12:09 am
A fairly uneventful commute, which is good, although I got part way in before I realised that I'd taken my lights off earlier when I popped out to pick up a parcel with the trailer.  Ho hum, I guess that just makes sure I leave early today!

When I was crossing Chelsea Bridge, I noticed that there was a group of Police Officers (or similar, they may have been Specials or PCSOs) who appeared to be stopping cyclists cycling on the footpath.

They were on the Northbound side (iyswim), which does have a No Cycling sign at the start of the Bridge (more or less where the last little bit of cycle path rejoins the road).  The other side is a bit vague, since there are some cycle paths signs which look like they may be relevant, however looking at cycle path maps in the past, I don't think they are, it looks like cycling is verboten on that side as well.

Luckily I was cycling 100% legally on the road, in fact I don't think I've ever cycled on that footpath (I did cycle on the other footpath a few months back, but the entire bridge roadway was closed due to an accident, and I asked the police officer on duty if it was OK to walk across the bridge footway, and he said it was fine with him if I cycled. :thumbsup:).

A slightly odd time to be stopping cycle traffic, since by 10-30, you wouldn't be getting the vast number of commuting cyclists that you would have gotten two hours earlier.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: NickM on 05 May, 2010, 11:41:00 am
Quote from: alexb on 04 May, 2010, 11:58:37 am
Quote from: TimO on 04 May, 2010, 10:04:21 am
A fairly benign commute in today, but when I got to this (http://maps.google.co.uk/?ie=UTF8&t=h&ll=51.441929,-0.1437&spn=0.000282,0.000603&z=21) roundabout, I was surprised to see that it's now been marked out as a four way stop.

Are four way stops even legal in the UK?  Possibly they haven't finished it, but at the moment there are basically straight double dotted "Give Way" lines from each road (instead of the curved Roundabout ones on the Google image).

That was an appalling roundabout, since westbound cars coming from Emmanuel Road rarely stop to see if anyone is crossing the roundabout (as I do every night from Cavendish Road towards Tooting Bec Common).  I'm not sure that a junction which no one understands is better. :-\ ???

I'm guessing that the roundabout is going back in since they have just resurfaced the road. There are no poles or electrical works for traffic lights.

I'll be mad as hell if they don't resurface the bit on Cavendish Road which is full of huge potholes.


Not to mention that bloody great crater on Rossiter Road
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 05 May, 2010, 01:08:34 pm
The five miles took me somewhat longer today.

Because I walked it.  :)

Trying to get fit again.  ::-)  I'll be doing it once a week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 06 May, 2010, 01:02:59 am
I got a rather alarmingly close overtake from a skip lorry.  It gave me the right collywobbles.  It was particularly irritating that he chose to overtake at speed and give me about 6" of space before slamming the brakes on and screeching to a halt at the red light.  On a wide dual carriageway.  I suspect that he was peeved that I wasn't in the bike lane - that would be the bike lane that runs to the left of a left turning lane going to a carpark, where you then have to cross the lane, and then along the left of another sliproad/bus lane out of the car park that leads to a set of lights that can't be triggered by a bike ::-).

On the plus side, at the next junction a large white truck stayed well back all the way onto and around the (two lane) roundabout, and waited for a properly sensible space with zero parked cars or oncoming traffic to pass me once we were off the roundabout - I did go like the clappers round it, and as soon as it was safe for him to get past I went into free-wheeling gutter-clinging mode to make it really obvious that I was expecting him to pass. And I gave the driver a HUGE grin, wave and thumbs up (and shouted thanks to him, although I doubt he heard).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 May, 2010, 09:24:27 am
I stopped off to vote on my way in to work.

Then a mile down the road got left-hooked by a B*W.

Hah!  Too late, Posh Boy! ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 06 May, 2010, 09:28:13 am
That was wet

It seems my new leg warmers bead off small amounts of rain nicely but are not of course water proof :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 06 May, 2010, 09:30:07 am
Quote from: clarion on 06 May, 2010, 09:24:27 am
I stopped off to vote on my way in to work.

So did I. The bods counting polling numbers at the exit were a very handy replacement for a bike lock. Thanks chaps  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 May, 2010, 09:37:37 am
Our polling station is a primary school with hooped (if low & bolted down ) Sheffields under a canopy :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 06 May, 2010, 10:01:14 am
Bah - got horn blown at me, and resorted to flipping off motorist.

There are a few sliproads to cross on my route. Usual tactic is to look for a gap in traffic, indicate and nip across - should be fine.
   
This morn I looked behind me, 3 cars back (a long way back) there is a car indicating left to pull into the sliproad. They were straddling the line between sliproad and the main road.
So I indicated, and nipped right, joining main carriageway. 40 yards further on, car undertakes, slows down and hammers their horn. wtf?  If I'd waited for them to overtake, I'd have been going up the sliproad!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 06 May, 2010, 10:33:12 am
Quote from: clarion on 06 May, 2010, 09:37:37 am
Our polling station is a primary school with hooped (if low & bolted down ) Sheffields under a canopy :thumbsup:

When I was at young Hywel Dda primary school would have been the polling station but George Thomas, MP for Cardiff West was the Speaker so was unopposed. Result I did not get a day off school  >:(  Hence my jaundiced view of elections.

This morning I voted. Just the Conservative party bloke had arrived outside to guard my bike so I gave him my voter number and entered to make my vote.  Afterwards I rode on a road I have never ridden before . I have been living in Radyr for a quarter of century but to my delight I had never ridden or walked along than section of road.(in that direction)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 06 May, 2010, 12:37:48 pm
Interestingly there were a load of police bods at Thornton Heath Pond, with a small car transporter, so I suspect that somewhere there was one of those camera cars catching plates so they could stop people with no record of MOT / VED / Insurance etc.  I was very glad that my stopping at the lights etc was scrupulously correct (not that it normally isn't).

For the first time in over two years of passing it every day, I actually saw a Fire Tender leave the Fire Station at Norbury (http://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/26519) with lights going and sirens blaring.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 06 May, 2010, 06:02:16 pm
Quote from: little miss mac on 06 May, 2010, 09:30:07 am
Quote from: clarion on 06 May, 2010, 09:24:27 am
I stopped off to vote on my way in to work.

So did I. The bods counting polling numbers at the exit were a very handy replacement for a bike lock. Thanks chaps  :thumbsup:
One of my colleagues did the same.  I just took my bike in with me.
(It's our village hall, I'm the chair of the committee, my wife is the secretary and the presiding officer for the election, so I wasn't anticipating a problem  ;D )

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Zipperhead on 06 May, 2010, 09:40:51 pm
So, there we were on the way home tonight, sat behind a bus in Old York Road.

We were waiting behind it because it had it's right hand indicator on, and because we could see another bus coming the other way (the road bends to the right), and the road there is only wide enough (just!) for one bus.

A cyclist in his trendy skateboard helmet and wearing hi-vis came past and then went down the right hand side of the bus - halfway down he realised that if he went any further he would be squashed between the two busses (they were both now moving and he was in a small gap between them), so he stopped.

As we went past him, following the bus, he said to us "It's lethal here isn't it?"

Paging Mr. Darwin, paging Mr. Darwin.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 06 May, 2010, 10:37:53 pm
Quote from: Zipperhead on 06 May, 2010, 09:40:51 pm
As we went past him, following the bus, he said to us "It's lethal here isn't it?"

Paging Mr. Darwin, paging Mr. Darwin.

Send him thisaway, his house is only just around the corner.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 07 May, 2010, 12:04:06 pm
Nice ride in, though a bit of a slog into the headwind.

Emily totally pwned me on the blast up Kennington Road. I stayed level with her for most of it, but blew up at the final 100m and dropped behind so fast that I couldn't even catch her draft :'(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Speshact on 07 May, 2010, 05:32:57 pm
Saw a RLJ totally caught out going south down Kennington Road at the Imperial War Museum junction. He nipped through on red, saw two police on bikes on t'other road waiting for the lights to change and had to stop in the middle because the lights  changed and traffic started flowing east-west while he was midway through the junction.  Police, looking akin to fishermen who have had a fish suddenly jump into the boat. waved him over to the pavement for a chat and hopefully ticket.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 07 May, 2010, 07:37:58 pm
Just the usual ride home for me ... except that I took it easy.
No big ring, no chasing other cyclists, no keeping pace with the cars, easy does it on the hills.
I'm not sure I'm cut out for this, I did it, but I've not needed willpower like that since I gave up smoking.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 07 May, 2010, 08:12:20 pm
Big diesel spill up the A233 near Fishponds, stopped to phone it in, and a fire engine turned up as they'd already been called.  I didn't realise it was diesel until my bike felt like it had a puncture.

Then saw a driver of a small white van with a smashed up front, bumper grinding along the road and half under the right front tyre, trailing a smell of burning tyre.  I reckon either a hit and run driver, or a drunk driver.  It was making an appalling noise.

Oh, and these two sets of red light jumpers:

Deadline Couriers jumps red light - KU54HHW (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sYiPxrH62vM)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TpX71Qq0wNk (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TpX71Qq0wNk)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 10 May, 2010, 08:10:36 am
Another cold ride in.
Roll on warm mornings.
Nice and bright tho' and only one car in the first 8 or 9 miles.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 10 May, 2010, 10:30:53 am
I pointed out to a bloke on a folder this morning that he was cycling on a flat rear tyre. He said he knew.
He caught up with me again at the next set of lights, still cycling on his flat. I suggested he might knacker his rim if he went any further on it, and pointed out the nearest bike shop, 20m away (as he clearly didn't have the kit/know what to do, because he would have stopped and fixed it if that was the case). I do hope he went to the bike shop rather than continuing to grind away at his rim  :hand:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 10 May, 2010, 10:50:24 am
As I was cycling this morning on a recently stolen folding bicycle, some busy-body pointed out that I had a flat tyre. "Hey" I thought "I don't care, it's not my bike". Instead, I just politely said I was aware of the situation young lady.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 10 May, 2010, 10:55:03 am
Nice to have met you, Riggers. Quite slow and obstinate, aren't you ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 10 May, 2010, 11:35:40 am
Very enjoyable ride in this morning.  On Friday Pink,White and Blue bike's bottom bracket collapsed so has gone to the not very local bicycle rest home to recover.  So this morning I had to use Red bike. I never seem to go out on weekends anymore. It is almost a year since Red bike was last used.  At first my legs were a little confused by the easy pedaling.  I believe of my three bikes the theoretical speed should be similar.  However when I am cruising along Dawes Discovery 101 [bikeicide in progress] tells me to slow down, Pink White and Blue bike tells me this is nice but Red bike tells me faster faster faster!  I am moving relatively fast (for me) so have to get used to cars pulling in before they are fully past me. As I approached a roundabout where I normally use secondary position plus to put cars where I want them, Red bike decided the best way to control the traffic would to move as fast as them so I pedal like I used to when I was younger and the I speak thy sloth device on the handle bars showed that I was moving above 30mph. I conclude I am not as unfit as I think I am, that was fun! Must use Red bike more.


   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 May, 2010, 11:40:59 am
Red bikes are fast.  I don't have any red bikes.  That is why I am slow ;)

But, white van wazzocks aside, it was a good ride in.  Traffic felt quite quiet, but still enough to make car driving frustrating, it seemed.

Saw lots of nice bikes and happy people.  Coldish, but I had an extra layer, so I was fine.  And the sun was shining :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 10 May, 2010, 12:52:45 pm
Grrr!

Today is the second time in three years I have diverted to the Police Station on hte commute.

Last time Wokingham police (TV) listened to my complaint, and attempted to confirm the report by tallying the remembered numberplate with the database - OK my memory was off but I felt like the copper was at least trying.

Today I entered Camberley Police Sation (Surrey) and said I would like to report two incidents of inconsiderate driving and was told I was reporting dangerous driving. I was then handed a single form (note I was reporting 2 incidents) and when I requested a pen was told as the form was so long (4 sides of A4) I should take it away to complete.

Thank goodness the incidents occured in Sunningdale, I shall now have to report them to TV and see if either driver gets their collar felt.


For the record:

Incident 1: - BMW X6 - Maroon - passed me whilst we crossed the pedestial crossing outside waitrose on the A30. West bound. Thank goodness those things make so much tyre noise. I heard him coming and was therefore able to flinch left to the kerb. Unfortunately that dumped me in all the potholes at the junction with Ridgemount Road.

Incident 2: Mitsubushi Gallant RX55... - mid Grey - There was a vehicle waiting to turn right Major to Minor across our path. There was not enough space between them and the left kerb for both a bike and a car and I got there first so wait your turn.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Zipperhead on 10 May, 2010, 02:31:29 pm
I have to own up to nearly crashing into a BMW X5 on the way in this morning, and it was all my own fault for being stupid and showing off.

There I was cycling along in the bus lane, no hands. The BMW was waiting to pull out of the next turning on the left (looking like it was going to be patient and wait for me to pass).

When I got level with the turning the wind blowing out of it hit me and as my rapidly clenching cheeks corrected, I swung left and until I got my hands back on the bars I was heading straight for the X5.

Note to self: Pride : Fall.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 10 May, 2010, 06:33:43 pm
Not a bad ride in really.....Things took a downward turn when I got to work to unpack the saddle bag.  I'd fallen for the 'involuntarily going  commando' gambit.

Guess it had to happen sooner or later.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 11 May, 2010, 09:24:02 am
Nearly home last night, see glaring orangey pink bike with riser bars being ridden along the pavement. Single speed. No brakes.

They should be shot for riding a bike that colour.  Then buried at a crossroads during a full moon for riding single speed, brakeless on the pavement.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 11 May, 2010, 09:37:35 am
In the 20mph zone, doing 20mph and a Mercedes pulls out from a side turning just as I am there.  Naturally I accellerate to stay ahead but the bloody Merc breaks the speed limit to go past me.  So it tries to cut me up and then breaks the speed limit

Obviously a heart surgeon on a mercy mission to save a small child.  He is the only one in the world who can do it.  And he is in love with the childs mother.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 11 May, 2010, 09:42:34 am
20mph zones, Hah.

Exhibition Road is a 20mph area, and has been for some time now. Nothing sticks to the 20mph speed limit.  The buses don't, the taxi don't, and of course no commercial vehicle or private car keeps to it.  They may as well have not bothered, an utter waste of time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 11 May, 2010, 10:10:44 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 11 May, 2010, 09:37:35 am
In the 20mph zone, doing 20mph and a Mercedes pulls out from a side turning just as I am there.  Naturally I accellerate to stay ahead but the bloody Merc breaks the speed limit to go past me.  So it tries to cut me up and then breaks the speed limit

Obviously a heart surgeon on a mercy mission to save a small child.  He is the only one in the world who can do it.  And he is in love with the childs mother.


Might I offer another alternative Vorspers?

Could he have possibly been an irate cop? He's just had a 'run in' with his lieutenant, handed over his badge 'n' gun, his 'live in' girlfriend wants him to sober up, and the only one who understands him is his dawg.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 May, 2010, 10:18:20 am
I got up late, as I'm going to an evening meeting today.  I was intending to aim to be at my desk about 11.  But I was just getting sorted when Butterfly realised that doing the laundry and the washing up (must have a word with the boys about that) before going out was making her late.  So we rode together to her work.  

For the second day in a row, I experienced a completely pointless and dangerous overtake approaching the back of the queue to the RAB at Mitcham Common.  I know I'm a large fellow, but, if a driver can't see past me to the car/lorry in front, then either I'm bigger than I thought (in which case they should be more cautious and give me some damn space) or else their eyesight is so awful they shouldn't be on the road.  Either way, their judgment is below par for being allowed to continue breathing.

That aside, it was a good ride, and, after leaving Butterfly at work, I rode into Wandsworth, across to Battersea, then crossed the Thames at Chelsea Bridge.  Pretty busy there - I suppose Albert Bridge is still closed.

I then found that the Tour de Commute had entered the crucial Etape d'Embankment.  My aggregate was +7 -5 :-[  Lots of fast lads. But one should be DQ'd for RLJing ;D

I was happy to be avoiding Vauxhall, Oval, Stockwell & E&C, though. :thumbsup:

I trundled along, conscious that I didn't want to go under the tunnel, so I turned off for Blackfriars Bridge after a polluted cutting.  I didn't take it, though, as I was aiming for Southwark Bridge (which I somehow missed the turn for :-[ ).  Hey ho - I came south over London Bridge and through the back streets, taking the time for four circuits of the local square, which added 1km and put my average speed up to 20kph, after it had been adversely affected by congestion in Wandsworth and the City.

An extra hour of sleep, the long way round, and still at work for ten. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 11 May, 2010, 11:15:34 am
See today: pavement cyclist, rucksack in left hand, sprog on rear pannier rack.

Sprog was wearing a magic hat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 11 May, 2010, 12:47:28 pm
Quote from: Riggers on 11 May, 2010, 10:10:44 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 11 May, 2010, 09:37:35 am
In the 20mph zone, doing 20mph and a Mercedes pulls out from a side turning just as I am there.  Naturally I accellerate to stay ahead but the bloody Merc breaks the speed limit to go past me.  So it tries to cut me up and then breaks the speed limit

Obviously a heart surgeon on a mercy mission to save a small child.  He is the only one in the world who can do it.  And he is in love with the childs mother.


Might I offer another alternative Vorspers?

Could he have possibly been an irate cop? He's just had a 'run in' with his lieutenant, handed over his badge 'n' gun, his 'live in' girlfriend wants him to sober up, and the only one who understands him is his dawg.

He didn't look like a cop.  But these loner types who are only interested in justice (and not sucking up to the man) don't do they?  I expect as well as being in a irate mood he was on his way to bust some drug dealers who wear backwards baseball hats

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Zipperhead on 11 May, 2010, 02:23:17 pm
Quote from: clarion on 11 May, 2010, 10:18:20 am
I suppose Albert Bridge is still closed.

Albert Bridge is closed until August, August 2011.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Speshact on 11 May, 2010, 05:15:28 pm
I was following a 'racing' cyclist with all the gear and the calf muscles to go with it around Regents Park perimiter. I was slightly concerned at the cyclist's lack of rearward looking prior to moving out past the occasional parked car etc. but it looked like she had years of experience and I wondered if she had feng-shui type situational awareness.

Turned out that, if she had, she'd left it at home as, when we got into a stop-start moment behind some traffic, she misjudged a vehicle moving and also the difference between cycling at a crawl and being stationary with a resulting topple sideways due to staying clipped in.

Gave a chap on the pavement a good opportunity to gasp and help the maiden in rueful un-distress up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RJ on 12 May, 2010, 01:30:35 pm
Got tail-ended by a school-run mum.  Fortunately (1) impact was low-speed and (2) I wasn't school-running this morning, otherwise the impact would have been with the rear of the tag-along as opposed to my rear mudguard.

No damage that can't be remedied by replacing a couple of cable ties, apart from to (a) my dignity [shouting though not sweary] and (b) my liberal conscience for even daring to think about wondering whether or not the driver's niqab might in any way have compromised her vision ...  :-\ :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 13 May, 2010, 07:35:34 pm
On Tuesday night I had to stop and phone the fire brigade on my way home through Bingham.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 14 May, 2010, 02:37:45 am
It was probably a bad idea to just wear shorts and a short sleeved jersey today, now it's something like 4 to 5 °C out, even with arm warmers, it was a bit chilly cycling home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 14 May, 2010, 10:26:06 am
Yesterday, I saw a grinning loon from Delaune CC, ripping up the road on his lovely Condor Ti bike.  I caught up with him at the lights, and commented on how nice it was, and that he seemed to be really enjoying it.  He said he was off out for a three hour training ride after work, and was really looking forward to it.  He then sped off, still smiling :)

Funnily enough, I passed another Ti Condor just a little further in.

This morning, we commuted in with TGL.  It was far too early for a teenage lad.  He might wake up later on. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 15 May, 2010, 10:42:20 am
Several of my minor commuting roads have been resurfaced with chippings.  Made for several slower sections last week due to the amount of excess chippings before the roadsweeper was deployed later in the week.
Still enjoyed 200 miles at an average of 17.6 mph for the week.  Chuffed with that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 15 May, 2010, 12:42:05 pm
Fastest commute of the year yesterday.... 2h06 for 35 miles/2500ft. 16.25mph average. Slow, I know, but not bad for a heavy, fat old git...
Now I am thoroughly knackered  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 15 May, 2010, 12:50:33 pm
Quote from: pdm on 15 May, 2010, 12:42:05 pm
Fastest commute of the year yesterday.... 2h06 for 35 miles/2500ft. 16.25mph average. Slow, I know, but not bad for a heavy, fat old git...
Now I am thoroughly knackered  :D

Add that to your excessive climbing though and it makes my undulating route look much slower  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 17 May, 2010, 08:26:25 am
This overtake from a police car:


      YouTube
            - 20100515 close police overtake
    (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DXnH8hjjgbw)

Unamused!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 17 May, 2010, 08:46:00 am
Quote from: Wendy on 17 May, 2010, 08:26:25 am
This overtake from a police car:


      YouTube
            - 20100515 close police overtake
    (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DXnH8hjjgbw)

Unamused!!

Holy crap.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 May, 2010, 10:05:42 am
I had a good commute today.  The motons seem to have tidied themselves into standing queues, and the rest of the roads were comparatively empty.  I was a bit late setting off this morning, and rode half way with Butterfly, then tried to zoom the rest of it.  Got my average up a bit, and was in work in time, but at my desk a few minutes after nine. :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 17 May, 2010, 12:13:30 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 17 May, 2010, 08:26:25 am
This overtake from a police car:


      YouTube
            - 20100515 close police overtake
    (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DXnH8hjjgbw)

Unamused!!

I had one like that from an ambulance this morning as well. I was doing my lifesaver prior to moving hard right to cross the road on a red traffic light and spotted the lights. He then lit up the siren and blasted through the junction flat out. On the other side of the junction he came very (and I mean very) close to brushing up against a car which had just completed a right turn from the side road.
There were kids on my side of the road about half way across the road. If they'd started to cross from the centre they'd have been toast.

I can't think of any situation that needs such excessive speed on public roads. The risks must outweigh the benefits.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 17 May, 2010, 01:03:32 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 17 May, 2010, 08:26:25 am
This overtake from a police car:


      YouTube
            - 20100515 close police overtake
    (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DXnH8hjjgbw)

Unamused!!

I would seriously let them see that one Mikey.  They had a lot more room to go out onto the offside of their lane so that was poor driving.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 17 May, 2010, 01:57:18 pm
Quote from: Grub on 17 May, 2010, 01:03:32 pm
I would seriously let them see that one Mikey.  They had a lot more room to go out onto the offside of their lane so that was poor driving.

Cheers mate!  Out of respect for coppers, I'm going to do this one on the quiet.  I have a neighbour who's a copper who knows someone in the Catford dog section I think this vehicle is from, and they'll have a quiet word.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 17 May, 2010, 03:33:31 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 17 May, 2010, 01:57:18 pm
Quote from: Grub on 17 May, 2010, 01:03:32 pm
I would seriously let them see that one Mikey.  They had a lot more room to go out onto the offside of their lane so that was poor driving.

Cheers mate!  Out of respect for coppers, I'm going to do this one on the quiet.  I have a neighbour who's a copper who knows someone in the Catford dog section I think this vehicle is from, and they'll have a quiet word.

Good idea.  There are already loads of zealots our for their pound of flesh.  Your idea is great.  But if they fail the attitude test then you could always refer it onwards. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 17 May, 2010, 03:38:26 pm
Quote from: alexb on 17 May, 2010, 12:13:30 pm
I can't think of any situation that needs such excessive speed on public roads...

I've seen quite a few scarily fast police blues & twos of late. Obviously these are trained drivers and I'm sure if I was the unfortunate person waiting for help I'd want them to be going as quickly as safely possible, but I do sometimes wonder about the risks being taken. For instance, there is little account given for those of us who have poor hearing and / or poor ability to tell where sounds are coming from.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim on 17 May, 2010, 03:46:52 pm
My back's been feeling stiff and twingey for about half a week and meant I sat around eating cake in the cafe whilst others were biking yesterday.

This morning went to the gym to work on my knee, then got straight on the SMGT. My back feels functional and flexible again. Woo for HPVelotechnik ergonomics.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 17 May, 2010, 04:19:37 pm
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 17 May, 2010, 03:38:26 pm
I've seen quite a few scarily fast police blues & twos of late. ...

I reckon I have an emergency vehicle pass me in one direction or the other about once a day on average, on my commute (mainly because of the five miles or so of the A23 I use every day).

Mostly they're pretty good, and you get lots of warning and lots of clearance (where they can).  Obviously given enough warning and the possibility of doing it, I'll get entirely out of their way on the pavement if possible.

Occasionally they can be a little less than perfect, the last one was when I had heard the siren some way off, but then it went quiet.  I assumed that they had turned off, stopped, or the emergency had been cancelled and they'd reverted to normal bimbling mode.

A short while later the siren started up again right behind me.  It was so damned loud I almost came off the bike.  Kicking the siren on just before overtaking seems bad form to me (and they would have seen me far before that, it was a straight road, and I had my Dinotte rear light, and a Cateye TL-TL1100 light on).  I suspect part of it was keeping the siren's use to a minimum after dark, but it was sub-optimal behaviour.

Still, as others have said, they do have a justification for trying to get where they need to be as fast as possible, and I think their accident rate is pretty low, especially given the environment and manner in which they have to drive.  (eg Accidents involving Ambulances (http://emj.bmj.com/content/25/5/301.full.pdf) have an average fatality rate of just over 6 a year between 1999 and 2004, vs 3201 fatalities from road traffic accidents in 2005[1]).

Footnote [1]: Unfortunately I think the figures for Ambulances relate to any accident involving an Ambulance, not just when using "Blue & Twos".  Likewise, it would be better if the number of fatalities was quoted vs distance travelled under these conditions, but I don't think anywhere near enough of this sort of information is recorded and/or available.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 17 May, 2010, 05:03:14 pm
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 17 May, 2010, 03:38:26 pm
Quote from: alexb on 17 May, 2010, 12:13:30 pm
I can't think of any situation that needs such excessive speed on public roads...

I've seen quite a few scarily fast police blues & twos of late. Obviously these are trained drivers and I'm sure if I was the unfortunate person waiting for help I'd want them to be going as quickly as safely possible, but I do sometimes wonder about the risks being taken. For instance, there is little account given for those of us who have poor hearing and / or poor ability to tell where sounds are coming from.

This was at the junction between Tooting Bec Road and Dr Johnsons Avenue
tooting bec road - Google Maps (http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?q=tooting+bec+road&oe=utf-8&client=firefox-a&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Tooting+Bec+Rd,+London+SW17,+United+Kingdom&gl=uk&ei=BmjxS4StAY___AajpPjmBg&ved=0CBgQ8gEwAA&ll=51.431217,-0.14632&spn=0.009217,0.01929&z=16&layer=c&cbll=51.431191,-0.146155&panoid=H8aIZzRcC_PcR70mwCWV7Q&cbp=12,271.75,,0,18.31)

At the time, there were kids with parents on the crossing, just about to get to the central refuge, there were bikes on the right, just about to cross the road and there were two lanes of traffic queued at the lights. The ambulance went to the right of the central reservation flat out. Anyone who'd entered the junction would have been hit very, very hard.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 17 May, 2010, 05:06:33 pm
I usually encounter emergency vehicles several times on each commute, but until now have never had an issue.  I'd rate that overtake as bad as a once a year incident, purely in terms of closeness and speed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 17 May, 2010, 05:47:52 pm
Having a Google and read about it, whilst the information on Emergency Vehicle incidents is not that good, a couple of things were apparent.

Compared to other classes of vehicles, a higher proportion of incidents involve excess speed, although this is clearly the nature of the beast, so hardly that surprising.

Similarly a higher proportion of incidents also involve fatalities, which I'd attribute to the previous fact, since the faster you're going, the more serious any collision is likely to be.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 17 May, 2010, 07:11:40 pm
For the first time this year I took an unplanned extension as the weather was so lovely.

Sorry childers, you'll be doing your own tea more often now it's summer.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 17 May, 2010, 07:32:22 pm
Quote from: TimO on 17 May, 2010, 05:47:52 pm
Having a Google and read about it, whilst the information on Emergency Vehicle incidents is not that good, a couple of things were apparent.

Compared to other classes of vehicles, a higher proportion of incidents involve excess speed, although this is clearly the nature of the beast, so hardly that surprising.

Similarly a higher proportion of incidents also involve fatalities, which I'd attribute to the previous fact, since the faster you're going, the more serious any collision is likely to be.

So true.

Generally I find ES vehicles driven on blues of the highest standard.

From signing up for the rapid response driving course with BRC I have been told in no uncertain tones that I will need to log a minimum of 100hrs behind the wheel of a BRC vehicle, with an instructor present, before I will even make the training list for rapid response.

It's a good policy, IMO. Driving is a serious business at the best of times.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 17 May, 2010, 07:35:27 pm
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 17 May, 2010, 03:38:26 pm
I've seen quite a few scarily fast police blues & twos of late. Obviously these are trained drivers and I'm sure if I was the unfortunate person waiting for help I'd want them to be going as quickly as safely possible, but I do sometimes wonder about the risks being taken. For instance, there is little account given for those of us who have poor hearing and / or poor ability to tell where sounds are coming from.
+1 I have minimal hearing in my right ear-  I can hear a siren but I find it impossible to identify the direction it's coming from. I often just get off the road and wait on the pavement till the vehicle has passed.  I do feel a bit daft sometimes when it comes hurtling past on the other side of the Old Kent Road, at the point where it's about two lanes wide each way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 17 May, 2010, 08:22:13 pm
Decided to take the scenic route both to and from work today - I wonder if the legs will last till Friday??  :P

(http://www.meiring.org.uk/pdm/Audax/Graphics/long_commute.jpeg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 18 May, 2010, 10:47:20 am
Today, Parks Police in Battersea Park were stopping and fining cyclists who were cycling on no-cycling paths.

Good.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 18 May, 2010, 06:20:12 pm
I had to cycle with my mouth shut for most of the journey home.  Sunshine and Cowslip meant bugs galore  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adam on 18 May, 2010, 06:45:46 pm
Yesterday I made the mistake of commuting in a yellow top - despite an average 15.5 mph, I was covered in greenfly when I got home.

Today, I wore a blue/white one - no bugs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 18 May, 2010, 08:58:58 pm
Ah yes. Bugs and more bugs today.

Swallow them quickly - that's my current technique.  :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 18 May, 2010, 09:35:15 pm
Quote from: Gordy on 18 May, 2010, 08:58:58 pm


Swallow them quickly - that's my current technique.  :sick:

particularly  :sick: if you are vegetarian or some other type of no-meat eater
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 18 May, 2010, 09:50:39 pm
Only one got in but I caught it quick enough to spit / pick out - which is no mean feat wearing long fingered gloves  ;D  I was too close to the sewage works to swallow it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 19 May, 2010, 10:25:53 am
There was a crash on Clapham Common this morning. It seemed to have been caused by a dog.

I missed the actual crash, but there was a very, very angry man in a suit shouting at a woman holding the dog. She was saying it wasn't her dog, so not quite sure where the dog owner was.

I have no idea what actually happened, but every morning I have to deal with dog walkers who think that standing having a chat by the cycle path makes sense. When i walk my dog, the last thing I want to do is hang around with traffic, of any sort!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 19 May, 2010, 11:06:49 am
Slightly scary moment when I moved to overtake a bus this morning on the Lambeth Road. It was at a stop and there was another bus coming the other way, but I was going at a fair lick and so I felt I had time to get past safely.

Except the bus I was overtaking started to pull out, making the gap suddenly somewhat narrower. It was only after I slammed on the anchors that he started indicating. ::)

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 May, 2010, 11:09:43 am
I had a wonderful ride this morning.  Sunny, fast, reasonably clear, no more than a handful of incredibly stupid motorists, and even the comedy roadworks didn't seem so bad this morning.  It kinda flowed, so, despite my breathing problems, and a lot of red traffic lights, I got a good average.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 19 May, 2010, 11:56:17 am
Quote from: clarion on 19 May, 2010, 11:09:43 am
I had a wonderful ride this morning.

Yeah, me too, despite the aforementioned bus incident.

I normally do my chauffeur thing on Wednesday mornings but didn't have to today, which I realised just in time to make a dash for the early train*, so for once I had time to get off at Bromley and ride the rest of the way. And what a beautiful day for it. Overtook hundreds of cars.  :thumbsup:

d.

*4.4km in 9 mins 1 sec, max speed 66km/h, average a shade under 30 - that was fun! Got to the station at exactly the same time as the train. Perfect!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 19 May, 2010, 12:10:34 pm
On Friday, Betty Swollox reminded me why I don't usually commute in civvies  :-X
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adam on 19 May, 2010, 01:26:31 pm
Whilst I was filtering up the middle of the road, Mr WVM in front of me decided to throw out of his window an almost full packet of crisps.  I think they were aimed at me, although he threw them when I was still 2-3 metres behind him. 

Unfortunately by the time I'd stopped and scooped up the packet, he'd wound his window up.  He still got a sarcastic comment from me, asking if he wanted his litter back, before I pootled off past the queue and dropped it in a bin.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 19 May, 2010, 01:32:34 pm
Absolutely lovely ride in - great tail wind, sunshine, birdsong, flowers...cool :). The only upset was the aftermath of a crash near Figgs Marsh - debris all over the road, fire engine, ambulance, police, smashed up motor bike, man being loaded onto stretcher :(. Hope he was ok. I couldn't see what other vehicle was involved - but judging by the spread of litter, there must have been some speed involved somewhere. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Speshact on 19 May, 2010, 07:05:17 pm
Lots of lovely things today, starting with a Mercian being ridden round Hyde Park Corner, then a Segway coming out of Hyde Park on to Hyde Park Corner - and not crossing through the middle but also being ridden around it!

Past a horse and carriage; several soldiers on horseback; up Hyde Park where a cyclist came on a recumbent style bike but rowing rather than pedalling.

Then to the school where one of the pupils wants to learn to ride on road on a single-gear bicycle like this one  ::-)
(http://is.gumtree.com/image/big/9203791.jpg)


On the way back a tramp on a bike with dozens of bags tied to it making it a good wide load!
And a police trike (one of those motorbikes with two wheels at the front and one at the back).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 19 May, 2010, 08:49:16 pm
What a wonderful journey home!

Glorious sunshine, flew up the hill, feared the worst when a shiny Nissan? warrior, complete with bull bars appeared over my shoulder for the descent , but a glance gives a friendly nod :o, and a realisation that 30mph is fast enough through the S-bends and blind hairpin whilst we all enjoy the glint on the lake.

Bring on the sunshine :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 19 May, 2010, 10:35:44 pm
Overcast coming home so not so many bugs.
I had a bit of an energy deficit from such a strong ride in too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 19 May, 2010, 11:11:26 pm
Fastest commute of the year so far, well happy.  My summer fitness is coming on tune nicely.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 20 May, 2010, 09:01:02 am
First day riding in to work wearing shorts.
I've ridden home lots of times in shorts but it's just that bit cooler in the morning and I am a wimp
But today the air is warm even with a bit of speed up
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 20 May, 2010, 09:14:08 am
Indeed. My leg coverings are shrinking on a weekly basis. If this carries on I'll be riding in a thong come August.
Apologies for the mental image chaps, rest assured *that* will not be happening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 20 May, 2010, 09:35:19 am
I'm quite disappointed that I only managed 40.6 miles of my commute yesterday, with a brief stop over at a pub (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=33204.0) on the way.  I must try harder. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 20 May, 2010, 09:45:48 am
Quote from: boab on 20 May, 2010, 09:14:08 am
Indeed. My leg coverings are shrinking on a weekly basis. If this carries on I'll be riding in a thong come August.
Apologies for the mental image chaps, rest assured *that* will not be happening.


You could bring out the little black dress again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 20 May, 2010, 10:13:45 am
The little black dress is a chrimbo special. I have a yellow one for summer, and a range of skimpy skirts. With shorts underneath. Bring on the sun :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 20 May, 2010, 10:15:27 am
Got told I'd be voodoo'd and die if I put this mad woman on youtube, LOL!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: dkahn400 on 20 May, 2010, 11:30:04 am
Quote from: Wendy on 20 May, 2010, 10:15:27 am
Got told I'd be voodoo'd and die if I put this mad woman on youtube, LOL!

Ha! Please post the link.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 20 May, 2010, 12:43:36 pm
Quote from: vorsprung on 20 May, 2010, 09:01:02 am
First day riding in to work wearing shorts.
I've ridden home lots of times in shorts but it's just that bit cooler in the morning and I am a wimp
But today the air is warm even with a bit of speed up

I switched to shorts a month ago.
Last week I stopped wearing a base layer.  So just shorts and cycling T shirt (rain coat yesterday morning). I regretted it a couple of days when the temperature dropped but its mostly OK.

Location: Cardiff.
Start Time 7:40am
Home Time 6:20pm
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 20 May, 2010, 01:43:47 pm
This nearly went into the rant thread, but I've calmed down now.

Look lady, stop bloody shouting at me.  I'm the one stopped here at the lights.
The idiot onna bike that undertook me and almost took out your rat like thing on a lead wasn't me.  You should be able to tell by the fact that I'm still here at the stop line.
So stop shouting at me!  Is there something wrong with your bains?  Or are you just a naturally nasty person?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 20 May, 2010, 10:34:43 pm
First time this year for me to wear shorts too.
I didn't even take my gilet today, just arm warmers for the commute in and then basically naked on the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 20 May, 2010, 10:55:03 pm
The scenic route home along the Carron Valley and stopped at big Als to get h/set fixed. Really enjoyable dawdle along that road that I usually am breenging along on a "training" ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 20 May, 2010, 11:28:15 pm
Quote from: Grub on 20 May, 2010, 10:34:43 pm
First time this year for me to wear shorts too.
I didn't even take my gilet today, just arm warmers for the commute in and then basically naked on the way home.

I've had bare calves since March but I've still been wearing knee warmers this week though they haven't been at all necessary, and I keep wearing my gilet mainly because it has pockets. And because it's sometimes a bit chilly by the time I get home in the evening. I've dispensed with the arm warmers though, and I haven't worn the full-finger gloves for a few weeks.

I was very glad we have showers in the building by the time I arrived at work yesterday morning.  :P

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 21 May, 2010, 03:53:09 pm
On the way in I found myself in the middle of a herd of 150 milking cows.
I started at the back talking with the farmer.  He was riding his MTB to push them along the road.  He took the right so I took the left and that meant that gradually I was able to melt into the herd and filter down the left.  The string of cars behind me were not so lucky and I managed to gain a huge drop on them.
The only downside was fresh cowshit had to be avoided repeatedly as the TCR is well clean at present.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 21 May, 2010, 04:25:23 pm
Quote from: Grub on 21 May, 2010, 03:53:09 pm
The only downside was fresh cowshit had to be avoided repeatedly as the TCR is well clean at present.

nice big mudguards are  good sometimes
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 21 May, 2010, 07:53:51 pm
Lots of close passes today.
Don't know why today in particular.

Their problem -- I was having fun in the sunshine  :smug:

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tourist Tony on 23 May, 2010, 09:39:57 pm
Been riding in shorts (or three quarters) since...er....summer 2008
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 24 May, 2010, 08:07:44 am
SPD sandals today for the second time this year (first time was Friday).  Came over the mountain way for a change.  As I crested it, the air was perfectly still, the sun hazy, and the sky shrill with larks.  What larks!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hulver on 24 May, 2010, 08:11:44 am
I saw another cyclist  :o

Of course I pulled out onto the road before him and left him in my not-insubstantial wake. There are standards to up hold after all.

First one I've seen going my way for a very long time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 24 May, 2010, 08:30:18 am
I was in the car and passed a cyclist I would've been happy to ride behind for several hours. Perhaps I could change my hours to allow me to ride in later and spot him more often...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 24 May, 2010, 08:41:26 am
Had my first fellow cyclist compliment today.

He tucked in behind me for a mile or so (without asking) then we split as we came to some slow trafiic, he went inside, I went outside.

After that he was in front so I tagged on behind him up a slight hill and then after a half mile offered to take the front. Two miles later as we hit the Sunbury Cross roundabout I was a sweaty pulp but he had the good grace to say "Great pace mate !"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 24 May, 2010, 09:26:28 am
I saw an enormous chap heaving his racing bike onto the road as I went past

I said hi but didn't really expect to see him again, even though I wasn't going at full speed and I was on the winter bike with the heavy tyres.

He caught me up at the top of the hill and said it was due to fresh legs.  Apparently the chap ( name Tony ) was doing road bike training for down hill MTB races.  He was carrying extra weight in a backpack.  He'd not ridden a road bike before.  "It goes really fast" he commented

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 25 May, 2010, 05:59:27 am
I formed a mini peleton yesterday as I neared Son2's school.  I was behind time due to extra work from home so met up with all the boys as they rode to school.  We had a great laugh.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 25 May, 2010, 07:38:53 am
Hmmm. Nice.  Now. Remind me; wtf am I doing at work?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 25 May, 2010, 07:44:12 am
Gorgeous morning today, warm, but not hot, a little breeze but not windy.

Just like TheLurker, WTF am I doing in work?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 May, 2010, 09:08:52 am
Wonderful wonderful ride.  Usual feckwits in their cages getting hot & bothered, and a lot of RLJers among the cyclists, but it was a good ride nonetheless.  Nice flow, and I got smoothly away from the lights ahead of the other riders quite easily, catching the RLJs just a short way down the road. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: darkpoint on 25 May, 2010, 09:27:15 am
I was quite amazed at the amount of compliance with the red lights today,  i was in groups of 30+ riders a few times this morning, and everyone stopped.

Which helpped it be a stress free jouney in.
(I am shutting out the lady who did the very dangerous overtake at Oval,  as i am not going to let her spoil my day.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 25 May, 2010, 09:29:53 am
Rode the first 8k or so with my son this morning - MrsH has been persuaded that he's OK to ride to school despite a couple of fast roads. She's more worried about him coming home on his own - but that has been mitigated a bit by him doing a scout cycling expedition a couple of weeks ago, when the leaders said that he was the only one of his group that positioned himself properly (not kerb hugging), rode predictably and took roundabouts confidently and safely in the correct lane (not around the outside edge)  :thumbsup:

Left home five minutes earlier than he normally would to catch the bus (due to last minute faffs on my part as well as his - we'd meant to leave earlier), arrived at school just as the bus pulled in having taken it quite easy. Must decide what to do about a commuting bike for him - today he took the Islabike Luath 700, as it is the most suited to the job, and both less expensive and probably less nickable than his MTB (which is only so expensive because I won it). They do have new bike sheds at school with proper sheffield stands, so hopefully it'll be OK with a combination of sold secure gold D-lock and cable for the front wheel on it. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 25 May, 2010, 09:31:48 am
More police out around Westminster for Brenda's speech today than I have ever seen before. Literally one every few yards, and lots of motorbike police hanging around in sexy leathers waiting (presumably) to stop traffic for the important people to get through.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 May, 2010, 09:34:12 am
Glad to hear it, darkpoint.  Actually, there were an awful lot of people complying with red lights, if I'm to be fair.  Just so many bikes on the road that there were a couple going through or round the pavement at almost every stop. >:(

The other weird behaviour was apparent when I passed a wobbly hybrid rider on Balham Hill.  Seeing she was a bit unsteady, I thought I'd give her a bit more space.  Then an idiot on a Marin zipped in between us on my left (there was still plenty of room to overtake me properly within the bus lane), causing a big wobble from the woman.  Idiot. :(  And it happened again as a bunch of us were setting off from a traffic light, and a prat on a yellow Saracen came charging through where there weren't really any gaps.  We all passed him in seconds, though.

It's not hard to share the roads.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 25 May, 2010, 11:45:19 am
The first 12 miles were uneventful.
I then had a clipless moment and fell off after hitting the car in front of me at very slow speed / minimal impact.  So much so they had no idea and drove off.
There was a car in front of them turning into the entrance to the car park for Caen Hill locks.  I stopped fine when the car behind the one turning did.  As the turning car moved off so did the one in front of me so I did too.  Then they braked hard and I was still concentrating on clipping in and moving forward so was unprepared for the sudden stop and as I'd only just clipped in and was starting to power on and had to brake hard I then lost balance as I did so and fell off onto the nearside kerb.
Cue slight scratch damage to rear stay of carbon TCR  :-[
Said 'Oh bollocks' then got back up and on and rode on. 
I went no more than 100 metres when I hit the mother of all pot holes.
It jarred me completely and my bars even dropped in the stem !!
I stopped then as I wanted to inspect my bike.  I adjusted the bars and then continued on.
Cue only about one mile and a spoke in my rear wheel went.  Bloody marvellous.
I then had to arrange recovery via an annoyed Mrs G and took a day off work.  I missed the bus back to Devizes by 6 minutes too !! 
Not my day today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 May, 2010, 11:48:14 am
That sounds like a rapid succession of unfortunate events.  You got some bad karma cleaned out now? ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 25 May, 2010, 11:58:26 am
Quote from: little miss mac on 25 May, 2010, 09:31:48 am
More police out around Westminster for Brenda's speech today than I have ever seen before. Literally one every few yards, and lots of motorbike police hanging around in sexy leathers waiting (presumably) to stop traffic for the important people to get through.

There is something about policemen in motorcycle leathers...  :P

And I must say that our very own Nutty is hawt when he's in his gear.  :-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 25 May, 2010, 11:58:37 am
First 5km was spent chasing down a xc mtber. I hit 44kph downhill trying to break away, but couldn't shake him. I then bimbled along for 10km at about 25kph, only to hear the telltale noise of a clicky freewheel. There was roadie in Cambridge Cycling Club kit on my back wheel. At a junction, I made the pretence of reaching for something, and he attempted a breakaway - full on stading up and honking - not today; we ripped along at 35kph on the flat for a bit until he blew up. I managed to keep up 32kph long enough to lose him. I felt like a hero, albeit I am sure his version of the story would be completely different. Averaged 28.1 over the 28.7km route. For a reasonably headwindy day, a decent time.

The day I crack the 1hr (1.00.15 is my PB), I am treating the office to cake.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 May, 2010, 12:01:10 pm
Quote from: Regulator (a.k.a. DUG) on 25 May, 2010, 11:58:26 am
Quote from: little miss mac on 25 May, 2010, 09:31:48 am
More police out around Westminster for Brenda's speech today than I have ever seen before. Literally one every few yards, and lots of motorbike police hanging around in sexy leathers waiting (presumably) to stop traffic for the important people to get through.

There is something about policemen in motorcycle leathers...  :P

And I must say that our very own Nutty is hawt when he's in his gear.  :-*

Butterfly holds the opinion that the French motorbike cops in their jodhpurs are preferable.  She studied the matter rather closely at the TdF Prologue in London...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 25 May, 2010, 12:39:30 pm
Set a PB on the ride in yesterday, 28:44 for the 14km. Then with the Air Con at the office being bust I left at 5pm and extended the ride home to 40km.

This morning the ride in was ~29:30. I used to think that 35 minutes was good for the commute in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 25 May, 2010, 01:35:37 pm
Slight almost sunburn redness on the tops of my legs coming home last night

It's a little cooler today
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tourist Tony on 25 May, 2010, 04:22:23 pm
Quote from: vorsprung on 24 May, 2010, 09:26:28 am
I saw an enormous chap heaving his racing bike onto the road as I went past

I said hi but didn't really expect to see him again, even though I wasn't going at full speed and I was on the winter bike with the heavy tyres.

He caught me up at the top of the hill and said it was due to fresh legs.  Apparently the chap ( name Tony ) was doing road bike training for down hill MTB races.  He was carrying extra weight in a backpack.  He'd not ridden a road bike before.  "It goes really fast" he commented


Hmmmmm.
Nope, not me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 25 May, 2010, 05:23:53 pm
Two incidents within a quarter of a mile today.  First one was a boy racer in his Astra, fag papering me me at 40-50 mph in a 30 zone.  

Second one was rather more imaginative. There is a little bit of a descent on my way in and I invariably trigger the LED 30 MPH thingy.  As the descent flattens out I then have to turn right.  So I've looked over my shoulder stuck my right arm out  in good time prior to turning right.... guess what lard mountain in his BMW coming up behind me does.  Yep you've guessed right, he roars past almost ripping off my right arm.

I do hope I got some footage.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: dkahn400 on 25 May, 2010, 05:27:10 pm
Quote from: Gandalf on 25 May, 2010, 05:23:53 pm

I do hope I got some footage.


Ooh, so do I. A nice clear reg plate would be nice too.  :-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 25 May, 2010, 05:56:46 pm
Quote from: Gandalf on 25 May, 2010, 05:23:53 pm

I do hope I got some footage.


I'm glad I didn't have my camera on my bars this morning or all I would have got was crash, bang, wollop - all my mistakes  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 25 May, 2010, 06:26:24 pm
Averaged 30kph on the way home, which meant my PB has gone from1.00.15 to 57.20. Gonna get some cakes in tomorrow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 25 May, 2010, 08:10:58 pm
Impressive, Dr M.

My average was barely above 20kmh today. It's usually closer to 24. I blame the blustery headwind. And general sluggishness. :(

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 May, 2010, 10:05:00 am
Another lovely ride.  Felt like a stiff headwind, but I still made good time, and came close to winning my stage of the Tour de Commute ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 26 May, 2010, 01:42:29 pm
I had my photo taken!  Clapham Common South Side, just before Clapham Common station at about 8.20.  Man and woman by the roadside with bikes against railings.  Man takes exciting speedy sweep with his camera aiming roughly at my feet.

Anyone else?  Anyone like to own up as Voyeur Camera Man?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 May, 2010, 01:47:08 pm
I was snapped too, from a low angle.  I'd forgotten about it till you reminded me.  I was wearing my red forum jersey, so if it comes out anywhere, it'll be good publicity.

Didn't look like a professional, though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 26 May, 2010, 01:51:11 pm
Quote from: clarion on 26 May, 2010, 01:47:08 pm
if it comes out anywhere, it'll be good publicity.

As long as you weren't jumping a red light at the time. ;)

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 May, 2010, 01:57:43 pm
Me?  Jump a red light?! :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 26 May, 2010, 01:58:49 pm
Thought that might get a reaction! ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 26 May, 2010, 03:54:32 pm
On the way in my USE seat post went skywards.  Hopeless.  I have bastardised a police bike and taken the seat post to get me home.
I shall be installing the Specialized carbon post tonight and sending this USE one back to either Chainreactions or USE for a refund.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adam on 26 May, 2010, 07:49:05 pm
Quote from: Grub on 26 May, 2010, 03:54:32 pm
On the way in my USE seat post went skywards.  Hopeless.  I have bastardised a police bike and taken the seat post to get me home.
I shall be installing the Specialized carbon post tonight and sending this USE one back to either Chainreactions or USE for a refund.

So it was pretty useless as a seat post then?

IGMC
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 26 May, 2010, 08:24:42 pm
Quote from: dkahn400 on 25 May, 2010, 05:27:10 pm
Quote from: Gandalf on 25 May, 2010, 05:23:53 pm

I do hope I got some footage.


Ooh, so do I. A nice clear reg plate would be nice too.  :-)


Here we go http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ndcWyhZDK2A (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ndcWyhZDK2A)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 26 May, 2010, 08:32:51 pm
I can only get it to play up to 0.27
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: dkahn400 on 26 May, 2010, 09:11:17 pm
Quote from: Lindagordinho on 26 May, 2010, 08:32:51 pm
I can only get it to play up to 0.27

I got it to play up to 0:28. Not a lot happens between 0:27 and 0:28 so you haven't missed much.   :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 26 May, 2010, 09:36:11 pm
Mmm, I'm guessing it hadn't finished processing. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 27 May, 2010, 12:39:01 am
On the way in, I saw a total of 2 cars. Also, got a PB on the way home, averaging 30.1kph, due in no small part to a race with a teenager on a Dolan.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: dkahn400 on 27 May, 2010, 01:03:51 am
Quote from: Gandalf on 26 May, 2010, 09:36:11 pm
Mmm, I'm guessing it hadn't finished processing. 

It has now, and it gets much more interesting after 0:28. He showed utter disregard for your safety. As you mentioned the 30 sign is nicely lit up too and he actually passes you at the school entrance then carves you up so he just makes it back onto the left side of the white line before braking for the corner. You really have to wonder what's going on in what passes for the minds of some of these numpties.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 27 May, 2010, 09:23:07 am
Two incidents on my way in  :(
Approaching a roundabout on a 50mph limit dual carriageway where I turn right, I got into the right hand lane a couple of hundred meters before the turn, doing 30mph+, but slowing because there was a car waiting at the roundabout. Still overtook the car in the LH lane.  Made a mistake of not taking the whole lane as I usually do, so a post office van shot past me on the right at (I'd guess) 60mph+, he then stood on his brakes, swerved across in front of the car in the LH lane narrowly missing the car stopped in the RH lane and turned left! We were the only four vehicles within 500m on that bit of road. Unfortunately I didn't get his plate.

I went round the roundabout to take the right turn at a good pace (the car in front had started off, and the roundabout was clear, so no need to stop). The car coming onto the roundabout in the opposite direction to me did the "I've seen you but I don't give a damn so I'm still going to edge out" maneuver, after I'd looked him straight in the eye as I came round. Cue hard braking and shouting at him.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 27 May, 2010, 09:27:13 am
Only one incident this morning, same place as normal, blind left hand bend, wall and hedge to the left.

Van goes to overtake me, well I think he forgot to do the pull out bit, either that or he was driving in the gutter before passing me as I felt my right elbow brush the side of his van.

SEA Systems are about to get an email about one of their drivers, in van reg LV06LWT.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 May, 2010, 09:58:19 am
I had a good ride in this morning.  Because I'm off out to club night tonight with TGL, I thought I'd use the Woodrup.  Unfortunately, I've not had the time to replace the cassette yet, so I had a lot of chainskippety moments at junctions :-[

I tried riding as smoothly as possible, and that improved things, though I was very slow away at lights.  Part way through the ride, I realised that one sprocket (the middle one) seemed to be much more worn than the others, so I changed down one more gear than I would normally do for red lights.  It worked a lot better, and I managed a rather excellent speed overall despite my issues.

I shall pop out at lunchtime for a few more pottering km, then home at speed, and out with TGL tonight.  Should be good :)

Just one complete numpty this morning.  Pulled out of a side road without looking, then, when challenged, stopped on a zebra crossing and opened the door as if to get out.

I let him catch up with me & pass so I could ger a good look at his VRN, then waved goodbye and left him behind with his unexpelled rage inside his metal prison.  I was on my bike on a lovely ride. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 27 May, 2010, 04:58:49 pm
Had a new stunt on the way home just now.

Mr Yob in one of those breakdown trucks that can fit a vehicle on the back, was so deperate to overtake me that he went the wrong way around a mini RAB.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 28 May, 2010, 12:21:11 pm
Riding home late last night I was feeling very underpowered and was struggling to crank out 15mph on the flat :( Then this absolutely bananas chap overtook me whilst doing a massive wheelie... All the way down Kennington Road from the museum right the way to The Oval. I had a chat with on the way. Wish I had a video camera on the go!

Again, chronically underpowered this morning - don't know whats wrong with me at the mo.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 28 May, 2010, 12:47:27 pm
Won an argument with a car on the approach to this roundabout this morning: Google Maps (http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&q=College+Rd,+Camberwell,+Greater+London,+United+Kingdom&sll=53.800651,-4.042969&sspn=13.888082,28.916016&ie=UTF8&cd=1&geocode=FZLkEAMdBb3-_w&split=0&hq=&hnear=College+Rd,+Camberwell,+Greater+London,+United+Kingdom&ll=51.446888,-0.085485&spn=0,0.001301&t=h&z=20&layer=c&cbll=51.446979,-0.085479&panoid=ZErJ0yiGNvrklA9ZUxPOQg&cbp=12,353.8,,1,5)

It's a 30 zone and a couple of hundred metres out, I was doing ~25mph, thinking perhaps I need to slow down some time soon, with the line fast approaching. But I hear a car coming up behind me, and accelerating. He's definitely planning to overtake, but I don't like the idea. There just isn't room - OK, so there are no parked cars like in the pic, but as the road kinks left at the junction, it does narrow a fair bit. Plus I want to go straight on at the junction, and it's a tight turn round the island, so I really don't want to be funneled to the left, which is what is likely to happen if I let him pass me.

As the nose of the car enters my peripheral vision, I move out from the primary position to emphatically make the point that there isn't room to overtake. The driver accelerates harder. Adrenaline kicks in and I also accelerate harder, moving even further out towards the middle of the road. The driver is still trying to accelerate past me, but I'm matching his acceleration and forcing him ever wider.

Just before he ploughs into the bollard, he admits defeat.

Straight after the roundabout, there's a long queue of traffic, so it's not like he had anything to gain by overtaking me, and I was away down the road and out of sight. Just another one of those people who reads the situation as "Cyclist: must pass at all costs."

It was exciting at the time but also felt a bit reckless - he could have been the type of aggressive driver who would force me over anyway, and at the speed I was going, it would only have ended in misery for me. But I won. I emphatically won. And boy, does it feel good.  :)

Quite an eventful commute, all told - as detailed elsewhere in the forum...

d.


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 28 May, 2010, 01:19:46 pm
My commute this morning was interesting.

According to my computer, I managed to cover 29.33km, at an average speed of 28.2kph, and with a maximum of 148.5kph :o

This may have had something to do with taking the head unit into the X-ray dept at St Thomas' ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 28 May, 2010, 07:49:17 pm
Going the long way home, there is a reasonable psyclepath that cuts through one of the housing estates.  Some eight-year olds were having a BMX race in the other direction, and a little black kid with an impressive Afro shouts "Silly old man!" at me as he passes  :(

I should have taken part in the next heat to show him the error of his ways, or maybe confirm he was right.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 28 May, 2010, 08:01:32 pm
On the way in I had a bad head wind.  It robbed me of 6 mph down Caen Hill.  But the sun was out ( on my back ) and I had made a Pendulum ( including the new CD Immersion ) , AD/DC & Guns N' Roses playlist for my Ipod.  I also invented truck surfing  ;D

On the way home I had a strong tailwind but after a long week it was not really all that enjoyable.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 31 May, 2010, 09:50:59 am
Quote from: little miss mac on 03 May, 2010, 10:13:30 am
I am posting here merely because I can, being in the office on a bank holiday.

That said, it was almost a zero-traffic commute in central London - pretty rare. And every other person on a bike looked like they were on their way to FUN rather than the office.

I need to throw a few of these around:  >:( >:( >:(


Groundhog day today.  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ktcita on 01 June, 2010, 09:45:16 am
This morning I asked an eager motorbike rider to "settle down" as he was revving his engine and about to ram the back wheel of the cyclist next to me in the queue. His reply? "F-OFF" and then again, and again, and again. Apparently he has an old bike and that warrants him intimidatingly revving his engine at cyclists who have the gall to be in front of him at the lights. Looked like a pretty new bike to me.

Should I have just kept my mouth shut?

The other cyclist thanked me as we rode off together.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 June, 2010, 09:55:29 am
That was an amazing ride!  25.6kph average (not impressive for a lot of our members, but I usually regard over 22kph as good).  Just flying.  Little traffic (half term & extended BH weekend, I suppose), and perhaps just the slightest hint of a tailwind (well, more of a slight crosswind I see from the Met Office, but partly behind me).

I was passed by two cylists today, of which one ran a red light.  Splendid.

And Oval?  Barely noticed it :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ktcita on 01 June, 2010, 10:05:36 am
Glad to hear your ride was trouble free this morning Clarion. Any word on witnesses?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 01 June, 2010, 10:08:10 am
Quote from: clarion on 01 June, 2010, 09:55:29 am
That was an amazing ride!  25.6kph average (not impressive for a lot of our members, but I usually regard over 22kph as good).

Same here. I thought I was taking it easy but surprised myself when I looked at the computer and saw I'd averaged a shade under 26km/h - like you, I consider anything over 22 quite quick. I did wonder if there was a tailwind I hadn't noticed.

Mind you, I was probably also helped by having a target man to chase up Crystal Palace Park Rd - I didn't sprint after him but gradually reeled him in. Really good motivator to keep your speed up.

And yes, glad to hear you avoided any more incidents, Clarion.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 01 June, 2010, 10:18:34 am
Today I saw two and a half rabbits.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 01 June, 2010, 10:23:09 am
2 minute cycle into work as normal and, nobody else has mentioned it, it's half-term and what a difference that makes!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 01 June, 2010, 10:28:09 am
Quote from: Riggers on 01 June, 2010, 10:23:09 am
it's half-term and what a difference that makes!

I noticed the roads were quieter than normal but for some reason I didn't make that connection. Excellent - I can look forward to similarly quiet roads for the rest of the week.  :thumbsup:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 01 June, 2010, 10:53:52 am
Today's commute helps me to remember why I enjoy dry days so much.
Gee that was wet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 01 June, 2010, 11:49:42 am
Quote from: spindrift on 01 June, 2010, 10:18:34 am
Today I saw two and a half rabbits.

In London you see halves of all sort of wildlife every day
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 01 June, 2010, 11:59:36 am
I saw two halves of the same fox, about three metres apart, on Friday.  :sick:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 01 June, 2010, 05:31:35 pm
Quote from: Riggers on 01 June, 2010, 10:23:09 am
2 minute cycle into work as normal and, nobody else has mentioned it, it's half-term and what a difference that makes!

Yes, it means I get to ride both to work and from work, instead of just from  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 01 June, 2010, 07:13:34 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 01 June, 2010, 10:18:34 am
Today I saw two and a half rabbits.
Was the half a front or back or left or right?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 01 June, 2010, 07:15:38 pm
Quote from: Kirst on 01 June, 2010, 07:13:34 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 01 June, 2010, 10:18:34 am
Today I saw two and a half rabbits.
Was the half a front or back or left or right?

Back half. No idea what happened to it, maybe it was cleaning a shotgun and it went off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 June, 2010, 07:39:49 pm
Moist.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 01 June, 2010, 08:17:41 pm
Humid, certainly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 01 June, 2010, 08:44:37 pm
Quote from: clarion on 01 June, 2010, 07:39:49 pm
Moist.

It was rather! Slightly better by New Cross but then a mile away from home it went torrential again  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RichForrest on 01 June, 2010, 09:06:15 pm
My commute today was from Peterborough station.
Didn't have time to go home first so it was a damp 85km  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adam on 01 June, 2010, 09:07:18 pm
Timed it just right.  Into work for 8 am before it started raining, and then left at 4 pm when it had stopped, and made it back home just as it was starting up again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 01 June, 2010, 09:32:54 pm
Got home okay without getting wet again.  It was quite warm really.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 01 June, 2010, 10:18:05 pm
If you were the attractive young lady who I passed by Dulwich College at about 7pm this evening, just as your rear tyre went "Pop! Fizzzz!", I should like to explain that my comment was meant to sound sympathetic and not smug and sarcastic, which is what it probably did sound like.

Furthermore, it only crossed my mind when I was already a bit too far up the road to stop and turn round without looking like an idiot that the correct thing to do would have been to stop and offer assistance, not stupid comments, whether that assistance be in the form of a pump and/or tyre levers and/or latex gloves and/or inner tube as required (all of which I had in my saddlebag), or in the form of a helping hand to hold your bike while you removed the wheel. I'm afraid my inner boy scout had deserted me at that moment, for which I apologise.

Of course, this is not to suggest that you were some weedy damsel in distress who needed help, and you may well not have even wanted my assistance, but that's not the point - I should still have offered even if you weren't an attractive young lady. And your attractiveness is a moot point anyway, all things considered.

 :-[ :facepalm:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 June, 2010, 10:27:41 pm
That went well, then ;D :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 01 June, 2010, 11:10:11 pm
Oh man... I've been brooding over it all the way home.

I am a sad old git.  ;D

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 02 June, 2010, 07:54:43 am
so the age of chivalry is not yet quite dead,it simply needs a good kicking to get up off it's sick bed,it just needs recussitating ::-)

mabe you missed one of life's "moments there C.S. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 02 June, 2010, 08:02:51 am
Lovely lovely lovely, sunny, warm, no wind, careful drivers and fast....

Did I mention it was lovely?

Oh and a new route today, due to me moving, I now have two possible routes into work, one short but "hilly" the other longer and flatter.  I took the long one today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 June, 2010, 08:50:46 am
Another great rid in this morning.  Sunshine.  Only a few idiots.

Last night, along with the rain to contend with, I am reminded that there were heeyuge queues along a lot of my route.  From Tooting Bec to Mitcham at least it was almost frozen.  And there was another queue further on, and one back a way up to Clapham.  Amazing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 02 June, 2010, 10:24:18 am
The roads were even quieter this morning than yesterday, which was nice.

And with the sun making a reappearance, there were lots more cyclists today than yesterday, which was even nicer.  :thumbsup:

Even if some of them were dangerous RLJing twats - one of whom almost fell on top of me when failing to perform a trackstand.  ::-)

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 02 June, 2010, 10:28:46 am
On my commute in, nothing happened. Oh, apart from the pillock on a bike who ignored the red right-turn light and shot across my path. Just what do you think would have happened if I hadn't swerved, you arsehole?

The fair weather bikes are coming out; spotted 4 'summer' bikes (reduced spoke count, not a speck of mud anywhere on bike). It's nice to see some other riders at last.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hulver on 02 June, 2010, 10:42:49 am
A pointless overtake this morning. I was already doing over 30mph in a 30 zone, going downhill on a fairly narrow road.

Wouldn't have stuck in my mind as pointless overtakes are de rigueur (must overtake cyclist), apart from this was a massive Stobart / Irlam artic and I don't usually see many of those out here in the sticks. It was a faultless overtake, apart from he had to exceed the speed limit to do it.

Still, I was able to draft him most of the rest of the way to work, which was nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 02 June, 2010, 10:54:02 am
One poor overtake near Witham station (landrover decided he had to follow another car past then cut me up to miss the oncoming traffic.  And one muppet walked very deliberately out in front of me on my approach to the station (he looked, saw me, then walked out anyway ... I think he was being "hard").  I swerved round him, shouted "watch out!", got the response "Whuh?".  :-\

Was entirely made up for by the lovely, muppet-free, run across Londontown in the sun.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: dkahn400 on 02 June, 2010, 11:18:04 am
Quote from: tiermat on 02 June, 2010, 08:02:51 am

Oh and a new route today, due to me moving, I now have two possible routes into work, one short but "hilly" the other longer and flatter.  I took the long one today.


Take the one less travelled by.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 02 June, 2010, 11:25:13 am
Will that make a difference?

(Oh, and see The path half-travelled (http://htfb.livejournal.com/9719.html).)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 02 June, 2010, 11:27:01 am
Quote from: HTFB on 02 June, 2010, 11:25:13 am
(Oh, and see The path half-travelled (http://htfb.livejournal.com/9719.html).)

Very good.  ;D

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: dkahn400 on 02 June, 2010, 11:28:14 am
Quote from: HTFB on 02 June, 2010, 11:25:13 am

Will that make a difference?


All the difference.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: dkahn400 on 02 June, 2010, 11:28:44 am
Quote from: citizen smudge on 02 June, 2010, 11:27:01 am
Quote from: HTFB on 02 June, 2010, 11:25:13 am
(Oh, and see The path half-travelled (http://htfb.livejournal.com/9719.html).)

Very good.  ;D


Or not half bad.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 June, 2010, 11:36:22 am
Quote from: tiermat on 02 June, 2010, 08:02:51 am
Lovely lovely lovely, sunny, warm, no wind, careful drivers and fast....

Did I mention it was lovely?

Oh and a new route today, due to me moving, I now have two possible routes into work, one short but "hilly" the other longer and flatter.  I took the long one today.

'hilly' compared to NRY? ;D

Is there not an even longer route which encompasses some bumps?  That's the one you need. ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 02 June, 2010, 11:39:42 am
Quote from: clarion on 02 June, 2010, 11:36:22 am
Quote from: tiermat on 02 June, 2010, 08:02:51 am
Lovely lovely lovely, sunny, warm, no wind, careful drivers and fast....

Did I mention it was lovely?

Oh and a new route today, due to me moving, I now have two possible routes into work, one short but "hilly" the other longer and flatter.  I took the long one today.

'hilly' compared to NRY? ;D

Is there not an even longer route which encompasses some bumps?  That's the one you need. ;)

No hilly, as in compared to the usual for this part of Middlesex/Bucks!

Looks like I will have to do the hillier, but shorter bit this lunchtime as I have left my wallet at the flat! :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 June, 2010, 11:40:30 am
Ya soft wazzock!

It's just an excuse to ride, isn't it? ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 02 June, 2010, 11:44:42 am
Quote from: clarion on 02 June, 2010, 11:40:30 am
Ya soft wazzock!

It's just an excuse to ride, isn't it? ;)

DAMN! I would have got away with it 'an all if it wasn't for that meddling kid Clarion!!!! :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Naggers on 02 June, 2010, 12:00:57 pm
Only had four pints last night but was feeling it a bit when dragging myself out for the 10 minute dash to the 06:06 train.
But I still forced myself to get off at West Hampstead rather than St Pancras and enjoyed the half hour sprint through Finchley Rd, Camden, Great Portland St, Bloomsbury and Bank to Aldgate.

Booked on and was asked to go down to Farringdon so hopped back on the bike and managed another 4 miles while getting paid  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: dkahn400 on 02 June, 2010, 12:12:15 pm
Quote from: Naggers on 02 June, 2010, 12:00:57 pm

Booked on and was asked to go down to Farringdon so hopped back on the bike and managed another 4 miles while getting paid  :thumbsup:


Aha! A professional cyclist!

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 02 June, 2010, 02:21:25 pm
Eventful commute today. 1 mile down the the road and my chain broke :o. An hour of fighting with an awkward chain and a self-distructing chain tool and it was fixed (I think).  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 June, 2010, 02:22:30 pm
:( No idea why this happened.  Will fettle later (even if I have to use one of the tandem chains).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 02 June, 2010, 05:47:56 pm
Walked in again today.  (5 miles)
Interesting that I saw ALL the other bikes who I thought only occasionally rode in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LiamFitz on 02 June, 2010, 08:44:51 pm
At traffic lights at Warren Street, passenger in a builders van winds down window and says 'Morning, I bet you're lovely when you smile'.  So I smiled and he says.... ' not you, you w@^ker, her...!' pointing at the very pretty woman on a bike next to me.

Shame as he had lovely eyes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 02 June, 2010, 09:48:24 pm
Lovely ride in.  I was early.  Hardly any traffic.
Picked up a puncture though that released during the day so when I went out to go home I had to change the rear tube.  I didn't spoil the journey home though as it was lovely and sunny and warm.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 02 June, 2010, 10:56:18 pm
Got hit in the eye by a flying creature - always a hazard when cycling.

Slightly unusual, though, in that the flying creature in question was a bat.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 03 June, 2010, 07:14:03 am
I forgot to mention yesterday that I saw the most cyclists on my commute home, since records began.
Several couples, a family on a tour, men, children and other commuters.  Amazing what a difference half term and an hour later can make, oh, and the sun no doubt.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 03 June, 2010, 12:45:02 pm
 I had a laugh this morning. Riding through Oxford Street, one of the junctions has temporary light replacing normal lights. A bus stopped (as did I) But then decided he'd had enough of waiting and just went on the red. The cabbie behind and I enjoyed the irony of it

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 03 June, 2010, 10:29:18 pm
Slow release puncture on the way in, but it was so slow I rode home after work and changed it when I got there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 03 June, 2010, 10:37:07 pm
Another pleasant ride.  I rode back along the river path, considering the difference  to the time when I rode along there across an inch-thick crust of snow.  No moorhens today :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tourist Tony on 03 June, 2010, 11:51:15 pm
Have had a couple of days off, so had some time for a bit of general mooching around on the bike. Went into Crawley, and ended up offering to service the bike of my music shop man.....then came the nearest miss I have had in a while.
There is a closed lane past County Mall, and I was coming up to a queue of stationary traffic. Just braking....I realised the Ka behind me had pulled out to overtake. To overtake just me.
She then proceeded to pull straight across towards the kerb. I have rarely, if ever, banged on a car window while still moving, but I did this time, and nearly came off. I ended up skewed between her and the car in front, bike diagonally sideways. I was screaming at her, and it wasn'tan expression on her face of "What have I done?" but rather one of "Bovvered?"
She made a big play of a theatrical yawn. Deliberate, then, X771 XFG.
I was just around the corner from my LBS, so popped in and borrowed a pen and paper for the number. That is when I realised I was so shook up, when I put the pen straight through the paper. Apparently I was white and shaking.
Luck or awareness, whichever, thank you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 04 June, 2010, 12:24:12 am
Quote from: citizen smudge on 02 June, 2010, 10:56:18 pm
Got hit in the eye by a flying creature - always a hazard when cycling.

Slightly unusual, though, in that the flying creature in question was a bat.

d.


 :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 04 June, 2010, 08:16:31 am
Blimey Tony, that's nasty.  What a horrible person.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 04 June, 2010, 09:11:52 am
This is a public service announcement for some of the less than charming people I've encountered on my commute this week:

I may be a fat, unfit, barsteward on a heavy, mudguard-rack-pannier-equipped  bike, but when I'm on the Tour de Commute I am a FAST fat, unfit, barsteward on a heavy, mudguard-rack-pannier-equipped  bike. 


This morning I was shocked to be scalped good and proper — while cruising along at 20mph.  :o  But I soon saw that he was a RLJ and therefore disqualified.  :smug: What a relief!
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 04 June, 2010, 09:24:31 am
Quote from: Tourist Tony on 03 June, 2010, 11:51:15 pm
I was screaming at her, and it wasn'tan expression on her face of "What have I done?" but rather one of "Bovvered?"

As Wendy said, a horrible person. Though I could think of better words to describe her.

And probably rather lucky for her that you don't believe violence is the correct response to such behaviour...

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 June, 2010, 09:50:55 am
Hard to believe people can actually do these things.  She is lucky, like 'my' taxi driver, that peaceful means are preferred.

I find it hard to write down details in this sort of situation.  I shake too much, and I find it hard to read after the event.  It's led to a couple of dead ends with Roadsafe London trying to track down offenders. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 04 June, 2010, 10:05:43 am
Quote from: Andrij on 04 June, 2010, 09:11:52 am

This morning I was shocked to be scalped good and proper — while cruising along at 20mph.  :o  But I soon saw that he was a RLJ and therefore disqualified.  :smug: What a relief!


I over took mr slightly old racing bike in long trousers.  A worthy overtake as he managed to not be caught on the uphill.  Then I drafted a car.

I was surprised to be caught again by long trousers in the park.  I guess he went a lot faster than me on the shared use path through the park.  Hmm actually after the car drafting I did come to a stop for some traffic lights
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 June, 2010, 10:12:15 am
I had a bit of a case of Friday legs this morning.  At least, I thought I did, since I was getting passed.  But I put in a decent speed, so maybe everyone else was just doing better... :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 04 June, 2010, 10:35:29 am
Quote from: clarion on 04 June, 2010, 10:12:15 am
I had a bit of a case of Friday legs this morning.  <snippity>
You're not alone.  My legs were like lead last night which for only a three day week and without any headwinds to speak of is a little saddening.  So much for the myth of maintaining fitness by cycling all year round. *sigh*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 04 June, 2010, 10:54:44 am
I was victim to a particularly close overtake this morning.

That the overtaker was also on a bike, with drop bars, lycra, no luggage and in the mid 20's mph range, didn't reduce in the slightest my anger/fear feelings for the next 5 mins.  (I was on my heavy belt-drive, hub-geared commuter, with lycra and a mono-pannier - on the left.  I was accelerating after a stop at a roundabout, and was in the low teens in MPHage.)

IF he was being overtaken by another car at the time, then wait behind me for a gap in the traffic.
IF he wasn't, then take the lane.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 June, 2010, 10:25:17 pm
On the way home, I saw a young Japanese chap on an interesting bike in Balham.  He turned to me and asked 'This way for Wimbledon station?'  I told him it was, but he'd got a way to go.

Then we went on a bit.  And I got ahead.  And I felt a bit bad, and thought I ought to maybe give him a hand.  So I waited for him, and asked if he wanted me to take him to Wimbledon (I wasn't sure of the best route from there, tbh, but I reckoned I could wing it).

It's not a pretty route, but we got there.  Though at South Wimbledon tube station, he said he was actually looking for Raynes Park.  I don't know where that is :-[ so we went on into Wimbledon, and, on the gyratory just before getting to the station, I spotted a cycle route sign to Raynes Park, and pointed him in the right direction.

I called Butterfly to explain I'd be late, then headed home via a lumpier route than usual.  It was OK, and I felt a bit of a warm glow for helping someone out.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 04 June, 2010, 10:48:57 pm
Wimbledon Station to Raynes Park Station is almost a dead straight line, so if you got him pointed in the right direction, he should have got there easily.

Well done that Clarion, improving relations with foreign visitors. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 June, 2010, 10:59:19 pm
I was feeling a bit unmojoed as I left work, unsurprisingly.  So it was an opportunity to do something good for someone.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ktcita on 05 June, 2010, 12:25:04 am
I had to remove my yellow vest as I was getting buzzed by a large bee as I was waiting for a friend for a commute. Damn thing must have thought I was a large, pollen-loaded flower.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 05 June, 2010, 06:51:19 am
I was riding towards some roadworks on a blind bend. As I got towards them, the guy flipped his lollipop to red. I was making progress, so I jumped on the cyclepath, only to be able to see around the bend that nothing was coming. I jumped back on the road, and as I rode past his lollipop, I remarked on what an utter penis said lollipop man was. Still, if that was my job, I suspect I'd a) have to find entertainment somehow, and b) find that hilarious.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 05 June, 2010, 09:52:23 am
I picked up an MTB rider on the way home.  He was going very fast and was a racing snake build.  He dropped me on a hill but I was not really warmed up and also as I had 21 miles still to go I didn't fancy really going for it at that stage.  I managed to pick him back up a short time later.  I then took the opportunity to draft for a good couple of miles  :thumbsup:

Family G rode 3 miles out to meet me at the garden centre and we stopped for a coffee and ICE CREAM  ;D

Did I mention I took a half day  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 05 June, 2010, 10:09:06 am
The ride into work today was wonderful, apart from the endless roadworks on the A205.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Naggers on 05 June, 2010, 01:45:06 pm
Quote from: clarion on 04 June, 2010, 10:25:17 pm
On the way home, I saw a young Japanese chap on an interesting bike in Balham.  He turned to me and asked 'This way for Wimbledon station?'  I told him it was, but he'd got a way to go.

Then we went on a bit.  And I got ahead.  And I felt a bit bad, and thought I ought to maybe give him a hand.  So I waited for him, and asked if he wanted me to take him to Wimbledon (I wasn't sure of the best route from there, tbh, but I reckoned I could wing it).

It's not a pretty route, but we got there.  Though at South Wimbledon tube station, he said he was actually looking for Raynes Park.  I don't know where that is :-[ so we went on into Wimbledon, and, on the gyratory just before getting to the station, I spotted a cycle route sign to Raynes Park, and pointed him in the right direction.

I called Butterfly to explain I'd be late, then headed home via a lumpier route than usual.  It was OK, and I felt a bit of a warm glow for helping someone out.  :)

 :thumbsup:

I was coming down Southampton Row towards Holborn yesterday and as I came up to the Red lights at High Holborn the car I passed at the front of the queue put her left indicator on.
A bit of friendly gesturing, pointing and head shaking on my part and she said thanks for stopping her turning into 4 lanes of oncomming one way traffic. Might have been amusing to see but I felt better for preventing it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Naggers on 05 June, 2010, 01:51:26 pm
Then on the way home I caught a little bit of free  dance theatre (http://www.sadlerswells.com/show/Electric-Hotel) on the way to St Pancras.

And then got diverted by this incident (http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/beds_bucks_and_herts/10244595.stm) in Luton.
If my train hadn't been about 10 minutes late I might have got a bit closer to it than I would have wanted  :(

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 07 June, 2010, 02:42:53 pm
Hardest looking cyclist in London.  H-U-G-E guy dwarfing a Trek MTB replete with road tyres and close-ratio cassette.  He had Australia Cycling News shorts, fluorescent full finger gloves and, get this, an American football helmet.  I can’t imagine he was very comfortable, but he was fast and mean looking.  Cabbies shuddered in his wake.

Dotted white lines have been added to our superhighway by the same ADS sufferer who did the blue paint.

Garbage rummagers are still rummaging (>8 months) outside Camden Cycles (at the Kentish Town end of Camden).  They are building a time machine.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: dkahn400 on 07 June, 2010, 03:39:13 pm
Quote from: Chris L on 07 June, 2010, 02:42:53 pm

They are building a time machine.


No hurry then.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 07 June, 2010, 08:36:27 pm
On the way home, as I was sprinting past some cars there was some horrible chain noise. I pulled over to find one of the outer plates on my SRAM PC991 chain had split where the pin had pulled through. Close shave, as I've seen chains take out spokes in similar circumstances. Still, not good enough after just 968 miles. Going to call J E James in the morning to see if they've got anything to say about it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 07 June, 2010, 10:27:22 pm
...coming home I found myself playing cat and mouse from Bermondsey to Deptford with a very attractive blonde on a racing bike (I dismally failed to note the make). At Deptford Bridge she headed off to the left towards Blackheath Hill while I carried straight on towards Lewisham (I normally go up the hill but had an errand to run - curses). Made my ride home a much more enjoyable experience, whoever she was :-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 07 June, 2010, 11:38:45 pm
I was moping about family stuff, waiting for it to rain, mardily (is that a word?) pedalling along listening to Maximo Park (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O7Do5QBtuJU) when a person on a bike coming the other way gave me a huge grin and salute.
Made my journey it did.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 08 June, 2010, 01:18:37 am
Gods, that was a bit of a wet one. I haven't had a really wet commute for some time, since generally I can wait out the rain, but this evening it just settled in, and wasn't going to bugger off.  I think I actually managed to time it for some really heavy rain, as at times it was more than the light drizzle that I had when I left work.

The roads were very quiet, in miuch the same way that the mild evenings have brought a lot of people out, the following wet weather seem to have dissuaded them even more.  I hardly saw any pedestrians or other cyclists, and not much motor traffic.  The last time I commuted with traffic that light was when the heavy snow dump happened in the winter.  The snow was more fun though.

My toes are a bit chilly from wet socks for most of the way. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 08 June, 2010, 07:32:19 am
Drookit.

Soaked to the skin.  Needn't have bothered with the shower. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 08 June, 2010, 07:48:52 am
A bit wet this morning, and if it keeps raining, it will be wet on the way back to the flat (I didn't bother with a waterproof this morning as it was only drizzling when I got up :( )
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 08 June, 2010, 08:31:53 am
Oh, thank you Mr D.J., could you play anything for me by Wet Wet Wet, and dedicate it to all the hydrophobic pedestrians out there. Tell them I know that their life will come to an end if they get even a little raindrop on them, and my magic brakes will protect them. Thank you!

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 June, 2010, 09:11:03 am
Wet.  And drivers just charging about assuming they can see.  They can't.  Idiots.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 08 June, 2010, 09:40:52 am
I dropped my pump somewhere. Didn't hear it fall, was too distracted by the rubbing mudguard. Which, it transpires, is because of a whopping crack at the top of the arc. Bugger. Chances of the pump still being on the roadside by the time I pass by homeward?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 08 June, 2010, 09:52:50 am
Telly weather people said it was wet.  I used the look out the window method announced to myself it is dry.  It was.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 08 June, 2010, 09:55:45 am
TWO people on bikes bumped into the back of a stationary me today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 June, 2010, 09:56:45 am
That's annoying.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 08 June, 2010, 09:59:17 am
Thankfully missed the rain.  Had a nice run across London.  It was very satisfying to be able to overtake/filter past the large queues of stationary traffic on St Martins Le Grand and Newgate Street, caused by the roadworks and temporary traffic lights at the top of Old Bailey.

Thankfully, my fixed-fu seems to be returning and I had none of the FTP and unintentional skid stopping that I experienced yesterday evening (which I put down to a freewheeling addiction picked up on my Saturday Audax).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hulver on 08 June, 2010, 10:59:29 am
Enjoyable ride in on the fixed. It wasn't throwing it down, but was that sort of drizzle that just soaks you through very quickly.

My boil in the bag rain proof blew up like a blimp, it must have looked a right sight.

Loved it. I love cycling in the rain.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tourist Tony on 08 June, 2010, 11:05:31 am
Out of the fromt of the airport yesterday and down the ramp, waiting to cross two lanes of traffic to gain my slip road, when I see the oncoming car slow down and flash his lights for me to cross. He then gave me plenty of room, passing in the other lane.

He was a London cabby in a black cab.

Just to pick up Psychler's point in another thread....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 08 June, 2010, 11:10:21 am
Last Night
I was looking forward to a gentle commute as a 'cool down' after a gruelling spin class.  Instead, thanks to unexpected wind and wetness, I had to push hard to keep myself warm.  Yet I insisted on the long-long route* home.

I also had another example of the danger of coming home.  All too often I can spend all day (or all night & part of a day) on all sorts of roads across the country and my life is never in danger.  But this all changes when I get within .5km of home.  Last night it was a woman crossing the road, getting half way across then noticing me, hesitating, then carrying on.  I shouted at her as I nearly lost control of the bike due to an emergency stop on a slippery road.  All she did was glance in my direction again then keep on going.  Not a single word or apology from her.  It was nice that two lads a bit further up the road asked if I was OK when I cycled by.

This Morning
Wet.  Cold.  Wet.  In spite of being tired from last night I forced myself to take the long-long route* in for the first time this morning.  I had no confidence on turns and rough roads — the bike seemed to be all over the place.  Two dodgy emergency stops (one at a zebra crossing, the other for a SUV driver who just *had* to pull out in front of me despite there being no cars behind me).  And just what sort of wazzock puts ROUNDED rib paving slabs on a cycle path (N Woolwich Rd) and aligns them in the direction of travel?!? Positively deadly in the wet.  Then there was the 1-2km stretch of diesel covered road heading into the City.

It was not a fun commute, but I'm glad I did it.


* long-long route:  My usual commuting route is around 12km.  I started extending it via the Isle of Dogs (fairly quiet, few traffic lights), taking it up to 18km.  I've now added another 4.5km by heading straight down to the Woolwich crossing then heading parallel to the Thames to the Isle of Dogs, then carry on as normal.  This is the longest route I can do without a) taking assorted back streets and zig-zagging, or b) going way off-route.  I'll be happy once I can get this down to < 1hr door-to-door.  In the mean time, it will help with the TfL commuting challenge. :)
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 08 June, 2010, 11:31:29 am
My son started cycling to school the week or so before half term (about 5 miles each way), and as his school isn't far off a reasonable route to work I ride in with him in the morning to be sociable, then he comes home on his own.

Last night we looked at the weather and I asked him what he wanted to do if it was raining today. He said he'd take the school coach in as he didn't want to change clothes at school (apparently the toilets are "rank") - the only bit of cycling clothing he wears to ride in are his SPD shoes.

Come this morning and there is a fairly solid drizzle so I expected him to not want to ride - but he said it was only spitting, and was up for it  :thumbsup: I just had to persuade him to wear a waterproof jacket so his school polo shirt wouldn't get absolutely soaked. It did rain a bit more heavily on the way in, but he was cheerful - and I think looking forward to his mates who take the bus seeing him as even more of a cycling hard man :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 08 June, 2010, 10:43:23 pm
Little M insisted on being taken to nursery on the back of the bike despite the fact it was throwing it down. Mega kudos from some of the other kids  :)  I then swapped to the fixed and had an almost dry run in enjoying the fact that there were fewer cyclists in the bus lanes
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 June, 2010, 10:50:04 pm
No oomph this evening. :(

The constant headwind was like trying to cycle through a mattress.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 08 June, 2010, 11:06:20 pm
Headwind?  What wind?  Thanks to that SSW, a disc wheel and a tailbox, I seemed to sail both to and from work tonight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 08 June, 2010, 11:24:33 pm
It should have been a crosswind for me, more or less, but it felt very much like a headwind.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 08 June, 2010, 11:35:16 pm
Quote from: boab on 08 June, 2010, 09:40:52 am
I dropped my pump somewhere. Didn't hear it fall, was too distracted by the rubbing mudguard. Which, it transpires, is because of a whopping crack at the top of the arc. Bugger. Chances of the pump still being on the roadside by the time I pass by homeward?

That'll be a no then. Damn, I liked that pump.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 08 June, 2010, 11:57:53 pm
Quote from: boab on 08 June, 2010, 11:35:16 pm
Quote from: boab on 08 June, 2010, 09:40:52 am
I dropped my pump somewhere. Didn't hear it fall, was too distracted by the rubbing mudguard. Which, it transpires, is because of a whopping crack at the top of the arc. Bugger. Chances of the pump still being on the roadside by the time I pass by homeward?

That'll be a no then. Damn, I liked that pump.

I once lost one when I realised it was still attached to my bike which I was about to chain up outside Witham station.  I took the pump off so it woudln't get nicked, chained the bike up and left the pump on the floor next to the bike.

It wasn't there when I got back to the bike that evening.  :'(

It just occurs to me now that I forgot to check lost property at the station  :-[.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 June, 2010, 08:54:34 am
Odd commute in this morning.  I had three vehicles pull out from Give Ways at the right across my path, including a bus driver who swears she never saw me :facepalm:  If you can't see two flashing white lights (one a Hope) and a large expanse of red coming up the bus lane you hope to enter, I really despair.

That's OK.  I'm unharmed.

Further down the road, I saw a chap with an upturned MTB and the wheel off.  I figured it was a p*nct*re, but checked with him anyway.  Turns out it's his second day commuting, poor chap, and he had a spare tube etc anyway.  He was cheerful, and thanked me a lot for stopping.  Had a nice bike too.  I hope his future commuting is less eventful.

Bit further on, there was a van athwart the road, and a car half-turned into a side road.  I knew what this was likely to be, so I stopped & checked.  There was a cyclist leaning against a bollard, a bit dazed, and a Sirrus with a bent wheel leaning against the next one.  I checked he was OK, and that he'd called the emergency services.  Yes, he'd called the ambulance, but not the Police, though I think LAS alert MPS of any vehicle collisions they attend, so they might have been on their way.  I was satisfied that he was OK, and gave him some advice on getting driver/car details etc.  Then the m/bike paramedic arrived, and I left.  I guess I should have left my details too, though I hadn't seen the collision. :-\

As I rode off, the big ambulance was arriving.

Why do drivers just act so casually in the rain?  Astonishing.  Perhaps all motor vehicles should be fitted with rain sensors which immobilise them when it's wet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 09 June, 2010, 09:06:20 am
Mmm, or at least restrict their speed. And restrict it even further when it's also dark.

d. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 09 June, 2010, 09:18:47 am
Quote from: clarion on 08 June, 2010, 10:50:04 pm
The constant headwind was like trying to cycle through a mattress.

I love that description - it really sums up the feeling.

My commute this morning was a bit different from the normal in that, for a couple of reasons, I left the Kona at home and used public transport (although I was carrying a bicycle wheel just to make it clear to everyone around me that I was not in my natural habitat).  I took the "London Overground" from Forest Hill to Canada Water and then joined the merry throng on the Jumbly Line to Southwark, where I de-trained and then walked up Blackfriars Road, over the bridge and wiggled through the back streets to Holborn.  An agreeable walk, with so many bicycles going past to look at.  Saw Emilio of old, riding a splendid gold Salsa tourer.  The one thing that bugged me about the journey was the extent to which junctions were rendered unpredictable by the large numbers of cyclists jumping the lights. 

Happily I shall be on two wheels again tonight, all being well, as I have another bike under my desk.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 June, 2010, 09:19:48 am
Always nice to see Emilio. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 09 June, 2010, 09:21:30 am
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 08 June, 2010, 09:52:50 am
Telly weather people said it was wet.  I used the look out the window method announced to myself it is dry.  It was.


ditto.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 09 June, 2010, 09:51:26 am
Quote from: PaulR on 09 June, 2010, 09:18:47 am
... I have another bike under my desk.

... suggests something foldable...... No?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 09 June, 2010, 10:06:55 am
foldable indeed: it'll be a rather different experience from the Kona, methinks

I shall report further in due course
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 09 June, 2010, 04:04:42 pm
Quote from: clarion on 09 June, 2010, 09:19:48 am
Always nice to see Emilio. :thumbsup:

..and so it came to pass that I espied her again at 4pm today, still on golden steed and this time delivering something to my place of work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 09 June, 2010, 07:31:06 pm
I had an interesting experience today - wonder if anyone can shed any light.

The first couple of miles of my run are basically going across the flow of traffic, then I join a main arterial route towards the centre. There seems to be no pattern to the proportion of red lights to green lights that I encounter.

However, I usually ride in at about 7am.  Today I was on my way in just after 6. The side roads were much as usual but the moment I turned on to the main road, at Deptford, I got what you might call a green wave all the way to Tower Bridge.

I was wondering whether Transport for London had the lights set so that off peak they favour the main roads and then change to a more equal pattern as the rush hour kicks in.

Of course, it could just be that I got lucky today  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 June, 2010, 08:36:39 pm
May be.  Last night, leaving work, I had a run of the first six traffic lights all on red, and another one in the first ten.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 09 June, 2010, 08:43:00 pm
Quote from: RobM on 09 June, 2010, 07:31:06 pm
I had an interesting experience today - wonder if anyone can shed any light.

Had exactly the same experience going later, south, through Euston, Russell Square, Holborn etc.  Did the same timings on different night, and got different results.

Basically, when the pointy headed wonk (yes, there is only one - he used to be LAN admin at a curtain making factory before he was spotted by the uber-achten-mukker who is a sort of giant croissant, made of floating debris who only 'forms' once a day) controlling all the traffic lights goes home, London's administrators head into Camden and buy drugs off the first ten dealers they meet.  They take these back to base and feed them to a camel, who looks surprisingly like Frank Bough in his breakfast TV era.  Once the camel's good and stoned they get him to pull the handle on the biggest fruit machine in the universe.  When the wheels stop spinning they set the traffic lights to random and clock off for the evening.  Which explains your, and my, experiences.

Oh, I met Clarion this evening, and very nice it was too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 June, 2010, 08:47:23 pm
Fascinating insight into the workings of TfL's systems.

Yes, very nice to see you, though I was admiring your lovely Cliff Shrubb before I had the faintest idea who you were.  Sorry I got dropped behind in Clapham - I wanted to talk more, but traffic and asthma conspired against it.  Hope to meet you again some time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 09 June, 2010, 09:08:10 pm
Quote from: clarion on 09 June, 2010, 08:47:23 pm
Hope to meet you again some time.

Defo!  On current form, I'll see you before the last slap of blue paint goes down.  That is to say, within four weeks, which is the timescale for Cameron's Axe (for it is mighty!) falls on all public spending.  Be lucky!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 10 June, 2010, 08:02:53 am
I had my first look at 'the blue' in the flesh a couple of days ago. Not very impressed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 10 June, 2010, 09:16:06 am
Best commute of the year last night.  Went to Tesco that put me 1km off course so instead of returning to the normal commute I climb through Llantrisant to Cross Inn, Rhiwsaeson and Creigau.  I chose the easier climb up to Pentyrch.  I tried to just roll down Heol Goch but I couldn't legs must spin. Whee!  Not really trying, computer said 67km/h (the right side of 40mph), I should of used the bigger ring. Continued fastish to the roundabout then found the hill up to my house a bit of a shock. Good.

This morning was quite fast despite being stuck in traffic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 June, 2010, 09:22:54 am
Still oomphless, but getting to & fro fairly happily.  I feel a lot more vulnerable when slower and with no headroom to sprint if necessary.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 10 June, 2010, 09:42:06 am
I felt a little oomphless today, too.  Not totally, and I did manage a couple of nice sprints from the lights on London Wall and Holborn Circus, but was noticeably slower on the flat, unless really thinking about going faster.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mikewigley on 10 June, 2010, 11:36:38 am
Quote from: Oaky on 10 June, 2010, 09:42:06 am
I felt a little oomphless today, too.  Not totally, and I did manage a couple of nice sprints from the lights on London Wall and Holborn Circus, but was noticeably slower on the flat, unless really thinking about going faster.

I always see "oomph" as very fast, as in infinite miles per hour.  Perhaps that's just me
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 10 June, 2010, 12:17:12 pm
I suspect the gods were punishing me for enjoying some Glenmorangie I was given a little too much last night, and certainly the barley wine chaser may have been ill advised. However, on a particularly grim section, I noticed an old guy up ahead on a MTB with mudguards, sat bolt upright and not getting much closer. I put some effort in, but he wasn't getting nearer very quickly. The thought flashed though my might that he was on an electric bike, but that thought was immediately followed by the realisation that if I alliowed myself to think that, I'd feel like a wuss when I passed him and he had tree trunks for thighs. I got on the drops and got my head down. Finally I caught him. I was relieved to see that his bike had a Bionx kit on it.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 10 June, 2010, 12:49:00 pm
I commuted in by car today... :-[

I forgot to put the cover on my Brooks last night and it got soaked.   :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: dkahn400 on 10 June, 2010, 01:14:40 pm
Took the racing bike this morning on an impulse. An effortless 5kph increase in speed over the Dawes, and brakes that actually stop you. Perhaps I should use it more.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Zipperhead on 10 June, 2010, 02:47:51 pm
I had to stop another cyclist this morning and have a chat with her.

3 times I saw her go up the inside of coaches (different coaches), the first two times the coach was at an angle to the kerb, front nearer, so when it moved the gap was going to get smaller - which it did.

The third time was on a right hand bend (Parliament Square) where there were railings on the left. She went through small gap between the front of the coach and the railings, and of course the coach moved but she was oblivous to it.

After I chatted to her and told her how dangerous going up the inside of large vehicles is and how many cyclists die that way she said "Thank you, I didn't realise".

I didn't say it, but I thought that if you don't realise how putting yourself in a position like that is dangerous, you shouldn't be using the roads at all. Not even as a pedestrian.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 10 June, 2010, 02:51:59 pm
You're a gentleman of the road.  Top marks to you for making that effort.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 10 June, 2010, 03:02:11 pm
^+1

And "not realise it was dangerous"?

How? Are people really that oblivious? I'm gobsmacked.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MikeFromLFE on 10 June, 2010, 03:29:20 pm
Still scoping out routes to my new place of work on the wrong side of Leicester. I managed to discover an extra hilly finale to my ride this morning ("Lets try this road it looks like its going in the right direction and it won't be as busy as Coleman Road" yeah right....)
I'm quite impressed that I can now make it in 40 minutes, but I do need to be on my 'number 2' steed 'cos that's got enough gear range to cope with the lumpy bits on the eastern side of Leicester City.
At least the office here has plenty of space for changing, and the odd-bods in the other offices don't look at me quite as strangely when I arrive soaked in my cycling gear as they did when I was at Leicester Royal Infirmary.
For the record, my route is from Leicester Forest East to Leicester General Hospital - I'm generally going via Aylestone Meadows and Knighton Lane.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: 2_Flat_Erics on 10 June, 2010, 05:34:46 pm
Quote from: Zipperhead on 10 June, 2010, 02:47:51 pm
I didn't say it, but I thought that if you don't realise how putting yourself in a position like that is dangerous, you shouldn't be using the roads at all. Not even as a pedestrian.


A possible future candidate for a Darwin award?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ktcita on 10 June, 2010, 08:21:50 pm
Quote from: Zipperhead on 10 June, 2010, 02:47:51 pm
I had to stop another cyclist this morning and have a chat with her.

Well done for being brave enough to "have a chat"... sometimes I want to but am afraid they'll just be aggressive back to me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 10 June, 2010, 09:15:34 pm
On the way home, High Holborn junction Chancery Lane. Lights change, I stop, another goes through. Dozy girl wandering across the ASL shouts out "oy Red Light means stop".  I chipped in "Yes, red light means stop light that one there for pedestrians". She had the grace to smile.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 11 June, 2010, 08:25:50 am
?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 11 June, 2010, 08:48:25 am
Quote from: Riggers on 11 June, 2010, 08:25:50 am
?

If I hadn't made myself clear (and reading it again maybe I didn't), it was the normal heavy traffic melee of cars bikes and pedestrians. This pedestrian chose to shout at a cyclist who went through a red-ish light (ie, it had just changed, arguable if he had crossed the line before, but I was stopping) while she at the same time was wandering across the road against a red signal for pedestrians.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 11 June, 2010, 09:04:08 am
On yesterday's return a policeman told me I couldn't continue.  I said that I could and would.  And did.

The more accurate version. In Trebanos, a chap was telling Pontardawe-bound drivers that they wouldn't be able to get through, and they were dutifully turning round..  He told me I probably could get through.  A bit further, and I could see the road blocked by fire tenders and smoke pouring from a house.  I stopped to ask a fireman and he said I could get by on the footpath.  A bit further a policeman stopped me and politely told me I couldn't get through.  I say: "But he said I could!".  "In that case, no problem".

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 June, 2010, 09:07:04 am
I took a different route to work this morning, avoiding Tooting & Balham a bit.  I was surprised how much slower it is routing across the Common.

Paused to hand out some leaflets.  Still at my desk before 0900.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: thorny on 11 June, 2010, 09:42:21 am
Intersting conversation with a bus driver on the way home last night after he overtook me, honking his horn, as the road was narrowing on the approach to Hammersmith Bridge (narrow stretch lasts about 200m, including bridge).
Me: "Why did you honk your horn at me?"
Him: "Because I didn't want to be stuck behind you over the bridge"
Me: "Would you have prefered it if I got off the road for you?"
Him: "No, but I needed to get past you"
Me: "Yes, but we're now sitting at the same set of lights"....
Then the lights went green and we went our separate ways, neither of us particularly enlightened...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 11 June, 2010, 09:45:49 am
Quote from: Ham on 10 June, 2010, 09:15:34 pm
On the way home, High Holborn junction Chancery Lane. Lights change, I stop, another goes through. Dozy girl wandering across the ASL shouts out "oy Red Light means stop".  I chipped in "Yes, red light means stop light that one there for pedestrians". She had the grace to smile.

LOL, although, whilst the red light is mandatory for traffic, I thought that the pedestrian red light was advisory only?  I could easily be wrong though -- wouldn't be a first.

I commute along there too, at least in the morning (East to West), but in the evenings, I'm normally going W to E along strand/fleet st/fetter lane.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 11 June, 2010, 10:01:32 am
Last night I was lumbering up Alpe d'Ixworth, a single lane road, and the car coming the other way didn't slow or pull in or do any of that stuff. The driver gave me a filthy look as she passed. I was a little scared tbh, it's a long straight drag she must have seen me for miles. Then I realised it was ex husband's current wife. Aiming at me. Nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 June, 2010, 10:02:19 am
You are right, Oaky.  Pedestrian lights are advisory, as I have to remind myself every time I turn left into Tooting Broadway.

But it's still funny.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 11 June, 2010, 10:19:28 am
Quote from: Oaky on 11 June, 2010, 09:45:49 am
LOL, although, whilst the red light is mandatory for traffic, I thought that the pedestrian red light was advisory only?  I could easily be wrong though -- wouldn't be a first.

We don't have the crime of jaywalking in this country. You can cross the road when and where you like. Unless the bastards have stuck metal barriers along the side of the pavement "for your safety". But you can, in theory, just walk down the middle of the road if you like. As long as it's not a motorway.

But yes, it's still funny.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 11 June, 2010, 10:59:45 am
This morning, I pulled into an ASL on London Wall, at the junction with Moorgate, I think.

There were two motorbikes in there. My mind went through the usual set of questions that I'd like to ask (I never do, it's usually buses, black cabs orAddison Lee drivers in there when I think these) "That's a nice push bike:  how many gears has it got?  can I have a go? etc.", when I noticed that a) one of them was a police motorbike and b) the officer was giving the other motorcyclist a sound bollocking over something or other.  I didn't catch whether it was over being in the ASL, but like to think it was.

I had one minor "whoooah" moment when I was overtaken quite close by a courier motorbike on Kingsway, but I can't decide if I or he should have done anything different there or not.

I was in the right hand lane of two which widens to 3 at the lights, on the stretch down to  Aldwych (I basically pull up at the lights and hop off to walk to the office from there).  I had taken the lane (dead centre), overtaken a bus and was doing about 28mph 29.2mph (just checked) at the time (although starting to think about slowing down for the lights) in what I assume is a 30 zone.  (I was aware of the motorbike behind, having just checked over the shoulder to do the bus overtake.).

I guess he could have stayed behind.  Alternatively (and I suspect more correctly) I could have moved to the left lane in preparation for pulling up to get off at the lights.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 11 June, 2010, 11:58:31 am
Quote from: 2_Flat_Erics on 10 June, 2010, 05:34:46 pm
Quote from: Zipperhead on 10 June, 2010, 02:47:51 pm
I didn't say it, but I thought that if you don't realise how putting yourself in a position like that is dangerous, you shouldn't be using the roads at all. Not even as a pedestrian.


A possible future candidate for a Darwin award?

Please don't make jokes like that. I know it's just a bit of fun, but think about what you're actualy saying.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 11 June, 2010, 12:02:21 pm
Quote from: Oaky on 11 June, 2010, 09:45:49 am
I thought that the pedestrian red light was advisory only?  

I knew that at the time, but I would have put hard cash that the girl didn't. She didn't even know the crossing light was red ;-)

For interest, I'm also pretty sure that roadworks lights are advisory only, too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 11 June, 2010, 12:14:04 pm
Quote from: Ham on 11 June, 2010, 12:02:21 pm
For interest, I'm also pretty sure that roadworks lights are advisory only, too.

And isn't that due to some ridiculous technicality that there is no Stop line ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 11 June, 2010, 12:16:15 pm
Quote from: Ham on 11 June, 2010, 12:02:21 pm

For interest, I'm also pretty sure that roadworks lights are advisory only, too.

Hi Ham. Small world, innit.

I'd say they're not. Traffic orders and such like  are needed to place them Or so I understand.

<fx:fwse>

Highway code, he say:

109
Traffic light signals and traffic signs. You MUST obey all traffic light signals (see 'Light signals controlling traffic') and traffic signs giving orders, including temporary signals and signs

(My bold added)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: dkahn400 on 11 June, 2010, 12:22:49 pm
Quote from: Ham on 11 June, 2010, 12:02:21 pm

I knew that at the time, but I would have put hard cash that the girl didn't. She didn't even know the crossing light was red ;-)


Observe pedestrians waiting to cross at a pelican or toucan crossing. It is quite rare for any of them to even glance at the lights. The gaze is generally fixed down the road watching for a gap in the traffic. The red or green man doesn't seem to be a consideration for most.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 11 June, 2010, 12:32:14 pm
Quote from: dkahn400 on 11 June, 2010, 12:22:49 pm
Quote from: Ham on 11 June, 2010, 12:02:21 pm

I knew that at the time, but I would have put hard cash that the girl didn't. She didn't even know the crossing light was red ;-)


Observe pedestrians waiting to cross at a pelican or toucan crossing. It is quite rare for any of them to even glance at the lights. The gaze is generally fixed down the road watching for a gap in the traffic. The red or green man doesn't seem to be a consideration for most.

Partly because they are so carefully set not to upset the drivers that a gap in the traffic will probably come first and in the event that the lights do change, you still need to know that the vehicles are actually going to stop - the accelerating motorbike or flash car may well not.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 11 June, 2010, 12:34:24 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 11 June, 2010, 12:16:15 pm
Quote from: Ham on 11 June, 2010, 12:02:21 pm

For interest, I'm also pretty sure that roadworks lights are advisory only, too.

Hi Ham. Small world, innit.

I'd say they're not. Traffic orders and such like  are needed to place them Or so I understand.

<fx:fwse>

Highway code, he say:

109
Traffic light signals and traffic signs. You MUST obey all traffic light signals (see 'Light signals controlling traffic') and traffic signs giving orders, including temporary signals and signs

(My bold added)

Ah. I suspected it may have been changed. I must read the a new Highway Code.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 11 June, 2010, 12:36:58 pm
Quote from: Butterfly on 11 June, 2010, 12:32:14 pm
- the accelerating motorbike or flash car may well not.

How many Gb of Motons can you fit into a flash car?

And RLJ is certainly not the preserve of opulent cars. Or white vans. Or beat up cars. Or bikes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 11 June, 2010, 12:41:36 pm
Quote from: Ham on 11 June, 2010, 12:36:58 pm
Quote from: Butterfly on 11 June, 2010, 12:32:14 pm
- the accelerating motorbike or flash car may well not.

How many Gb of Motons can you fit into a flash car?

And RLJ is certainly not the preserve of opulent cars. Or white vans. Or beat up cars. Or bikes.
No that's true. That's why you watch the road and not the lights.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 11 June, 2010, 01:23:39 pm
Quote from: Ham on 11 June, 2010, 08:48:25 am
Quote from: Riggers on 11 June, 2010, 08:25:50 am
?

If I hadn't made myself clear (and reading it again maybe I didn't), it was the normal heavy traffic melee of cars bikes and pedestrians. This pedestrian chose to shout at a cyclist who went through a red-ish light (ie, it had just changed, arguable if he had crossed the line before, but I was stopping) while she at the same time was wandering across the road against a red signal for pedestrians.


Ah, I getcha now Hammers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: dkahn400 on 11 June, 2010, 02:07:07 pm
Quote from: Butterfly on 11 June, 2010, 12:41:36 pm
Quote from: Ham on 11 June, 2010, 12:36:58 pm
Quote from: Butterfly on 11 June, 2010, 12:32:14 pm
- the accelerating motorbike or flash car may well not.

How many Gb of Motons can you fit into a flash car?

And RLJ is certainly not the preserve of opulent cars. Or white vans. Or beat up cars. Or bikes.
No that's true. That's why you watch the road and not the lights.

When I'm in ped mode I look at both.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 11 June, 2010, 02:42:47 pm
Quote from: Butterfly on 11 June, 2010, 12:32:14 pm
Quote from: dkahn400 on 11 June, 2010, 12:22:49 pm
Quote from: Ham on 11 June, 2010, 12:02:21 pm

I knew that at the time, but I would have put hard cash that the girl didn't. She didn't even know the crossing light was red ;-)




Observe pedestrians waiting to cross at a pelican or toucan crossing. It is quite rare for any of them to even glance at the lights. The gaze is generally fixed down the road watching for a gap in the traffic. The red or green man doesn't seem to be a consideration for most.

Partly because they are so carefully set not to upset the drivers that a gap in the traffic will probably come first and in the event that the lights do change, you still need to know that the vehicles are actually going to stop - the accelerating motorbike or flash car may well not.
The lights at pedestrian crossings on the Old Kent rd and Peckham high St take a very long time to change.  There must be a point at which people get fed up waiting/think they're broken (the Peckham high St ones often are anyway) and just use their own eyes and traffic dodging skills.  
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 11 June, 2010, 03:06:52 pm
Quote from: Butterfly on 11 June, 2010, 12:32:14 pm
Quote from: dkahn400 on 11 June, 2010, 12:22:49 pm
Quote from: Ham on 11 June, 2010, 12:02:21 pm

I knew that at the time, but I would have put hard cash that the girl didn't. She didn't even know the crossing light was red ;-)


Observe pedestrians waiting to cross at a pelican or toucan crossing. It is quite rare for any of them to even glance at the lights. The gaze is generally fixed down the road watching for a gap in the traffic. The red or green man doesn't seem to be a consideration for most.

Partly because they are so carefully set not to upset the drivers that a gap in the traffic will probably come first and in the event that the lights do change, you still need to know that the vehicles are actually going to stop - the accelerating motorbike or flash car may well not.

Given that the green man phase is 4-5 seconds on many crossings round here and that cars don't seem to stop till the light has been red for ages, then move off as soon as the amber light flashes, regardless of the presence of anyone on the crossing, that's fair enough IMO.

There's a long wait for a green man at many crossings. Pedestrian time is often not costed in COBA for road schemes...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 11 June, 2010, 03:57:46 pm
There's a recommended time for pedestrian crossings I think. I did (once) spend hours trying to find the details via Google, but failed completely. The one at the top of Stone High Street is 30 seconds, I think it is supposed to be about 10 or 15. Bah!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Zoidburg on 11 June, 2010, 04:02:43 pm
Speaking of ped crossings.

I wish the lollypop lady in wolstanton would twig that if she has a zebra crossing next to a set of lights it's best to cross the children with the lights, not constantly going against them and causing a half mile tailback.

She is causing more problems than she is solving.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 11 June, 2010, 10:49:22 pm
I must have donned my Cloak of Invisibility this morning, judging by the number of people who pulled out on me, drove across me, or inched out at me until I shouted at them not to  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 12 June, 2010, 01:22:47 pm
Quote from: Deano on 11 June, 2010, 10:49:22 pm
I must have donned my Cloak of Invisibility this morning, judging by the number of people who pulled out on me, drove across me, or inched out at me until I shouted at them not to  ::-)
I wondered where my invisibility cloak had gone, obviously it has wandered up the 167 :)

Anyways today's commute was nice and quiet, hardly any cars, no stupid overtakes etc.

The Claud Butler locked to a village sign in the middle of nowhere is still there, wonder why?

And I am no officially a cycle commuter in earnest :)  I have not used the car once since Sunday....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hulver on 15 June, 2010, 11:14:48 am
Well, last night really.

I was pulling out into the centre of the road to go through the pinch point (http://maps.google.co.uk/?ie=UTF8&ll=53.326695,-1.363807&spn=0,0.039697&z=15&layer=c&cbll=53.326808,-1.363947&panoid=Y93T5Oe1JRBJhKFmkNtY0A&cbp=12,219.04527699999994,,0,2.40368) near home, when the white van that was behind me sped up and came within an inch of knocking me off.

I'm afraid my language was rather free flowing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 15 June, 2010, 12:50:11 pm
Last night I had a driver in a green Toyota Carolla trying to push his way past me, whilst approaching a loong queue, he was a whisker from my pannier.

I gave him a lungfull of "GET BACK" and a laser death stare. About 2 seconds later when we stopped at the queue, he wound his window down and said "What's the problem, I didn't touch you?"

Me: "You were way too close and we were approacing a queue, what did you hope to achieve"
Twat: "Did I touch you?"
Me: "Wha---"
Twat: (Interrupting) "Did I touch you?"
Me: "Don't int---"
Twat: (Interrupting) "Did I touch you?"

Ok, if he wants to play this game, I'll deploy my best Cat Herding Voice* - I had been intending to have a quiet word, but it clearly wasn't going to work.

Me: "Now listen up and don't you dare interrupt me. We were approaching a queue, that we are still in, trying to overtake me was stupid, pointless and dangerous. Use your eyes. Use your brain. And don't you EVER put my life at risk again through your stupidity."
Twat: "Bu---"
Me: "DO. YOU. UNDERSTAND?"
Twat: "I didn't me---"
Me: "DO. YOU. UNDERSTAND?"
Twat: (Now attempting to hide beneath the frame of his door) *very quietly* "Eff-off. please leave me alone. I'm sorry."
Me: "Thank you. Have a nice day."


To give you an impression of the efficacy of a Cat Herding Voice, pretty much everyone peds, cyclists and drivers in a 20m radius even on the other side of the 4 lane road were all staring.



* Practiced 2-3 times a week. Loud and cutting enough to pierce the noise of a roller derby scrimmage of 10 girls all going hell for leather to kill each other within the rules of the game.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wascally Weasel on 15 June, 2010, 12:56:19 pm
Well done, you have mastered The Voice  :thumbsup:

<annoying lisping child actress in Dune>

"For he ith the kwizatth haderach"

</annoying lisping child actress in Dune>
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 15 June, 2010, 12:56:34 pm
First Class!!!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 15 June, 2010, 01:12:40 pm
Quote from: Wascally Weasel on 15 June, 2010, 12:56:19 pm
Well done, you have mastered The Voice  :thumbsup:

<annoying lisping child actress in Dune>

"For he ith the kwizatth haderach"

</annoying lisping child actress in Dune>

Aah, I never made the mistake of watching it. Cracking read though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 15 June, 2010, 01:18:34 pm
Nice one, Jacomus.  :thumbsup:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 15 June, 2010, 06:28:02 pm
Good show!  Known around here as the Molly Bellow, that is.  It's the voice that gets Molly the mad labrador back from three fields away, looking apologetic all the way back.

I used it once on a runaway child.  He got his full Sunday Name too - in the middle of the railway museum.  The entire Station Hall went very very quiet for about a minute...

It's not just volume, is it?  It's all about the tone.... 

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 15 June, 2010, 06:36:46 pm
Quote from: Wascally Weasel on 15 June, 2010, 12:56:19 pm

<annoying lisping child actress in Dune>

"For he ith the kwizatth haderach"

</annoying lisping child actress in Dune>


I'm glad you told me. I thought it was Igor from Terry Pratchett's Discworld. :P


On my ride in today, I spied a man wearing a suit cycling. He was on a cruiser bike and had a great big grin on his chops. 8) ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adam on 15 June, 2010, 06:42:56 pm
Just as I came to a halt at work this morning, the front brake seemed to "give" a bit.  So I hopped off, and pulled the brake again, and the lever went all floppy.  Turned out the cable had decided to part company with the little nipple thing.   :o

I got a lift home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 15 June, 2010, 11:23:38 pm
Quote from: teethgrinder on 15 June, 2010, 06:36:46 pm
On my ride in today, I spied a man wearing a suit cycling. He was on a cruiser bike and had a great big grin on his chops. 8) ;D

LOL, that's what it's all about!  I came past one of these on Sunday, he was on a well blinged up chopper and so chuffed when I praised his bike!!

I praised a chap in an MX5 too today, really beautifully looked after car, and his driving was excellent.  It's cool and funny to see how beamingly grateful he was.

Also passed by a funny motorised tadpole trike, bit like a quad bike.  I'll see if I got it on video.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 15 June, 2010, 11:28:44 pm
On the commute this morning I took the bus and the train.
On the bus I was crammed next to a woman eating a yoghurt  :sick:
On the train my sightline was entirely taken up by a couple who clearly could have done with a few more hours in bed together.  :sick:

LMM's commute: illustrating the 'public' in 'public transport'.



Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 15 June, 2010, 11:36:32 pm
Quote from: little miss mac on 15 June, 2010, 11:28:44 pm
On the commute this morning I took the bus and the train.
On the bus I was crammed next to a woman eating a yoghurt  :sick:
On the train my sightline was entirely taken up by a couple who clearly could have done with a few more hours in bed together.  :sick:

LMM's commute: illustrating the 'public' in 'public transport'.





There is a proper way to conduct yourself in those situations.

For the yoghurt eater, ask if you may dip your finger into their yoghurt.
If they call your bluff and give you permission, you don't have to, you merely wanted to know if it was acceptable. ;)


For the snoggers. Watch them intently making "Phwooar!" sounds. Perhaps some constructive criticism wouldn't go amiss?


This will buy you some space and reverse the bad feeling.

Why does the nutter always sit next to me on the bus!? :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 16 June, 2010, 07:28:20 am
Quote from: teethgrinder on 15 June, 2010, 11:36:32 pm

Why does the nutter always sit next to me on the bus!? :thumbsup:

Never a problem for me.
I am the nutter on the bus.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 16 June, 2010, 07:52:05 am
Quote from: Basil on 16 June, 2010, 07:28:20 am
Quote from: teethgrinder on 15 June, 2010, 11:36:32 pm

Why does the nutter always sit next to me on the bus!? :thumbsup:

Never a problem for me.
I am the nutter on the bus.  :)

[Monty Python's Most Famous Film - parodied for comic effect]
No, I'm the nutter on the bus!
[\Monty Python's Most Famous Film]

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 16 June, 2010, 09:16:28 am
Quote from: teethgrinder on 15 June, 2010, 11:36:32 pm
Why does the nutter always sit next to me on the bus!? :thumbsup:

You're not offensive enough. For example, to continue this story (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=28892.msg528679#msg528679): I rode back to the Oxford Tube stop at Shepherd's Bush but was caught by a freezing February downpour. Already quite chilled from my swim, and already wearing what had been my change of dry clothes, I was soaked through again and had to pull out the waterproofs from my bag and put them on for a wetsuit warmth. I'd washed some of the silt out in the rowing club showers but they were still full of the river Thames and "the thrilling-sweet, the rotten, unforgettable, unforgotten river-smell".

I loaded my bike onto the coach and by the time I boarded there were exactly two seats left in a bus crowded with umbrellas and winter coats. Two happy busriders, in smug dry clothing, were guarding their personal extra spaces with bags and hostility, each understandably keen to put me off going anywhere near them.

I loomed up foetid and dripping like the Creature From The Black Lagoon and pointed out that unless they moved to sit together, I would have to sit next to one of them. They took the point and I got two seats to myself all the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 June, 2010, 09:32:04 am
London:

There is no dark

There is no privacy

There is no quiet.

:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 June, 2010, 09:36:13 am
I took the Woodrup this morning, because I felt like a bit of a quicker ride.

The headwind had other ideas, but I had fun anyway.

Just before the last turn, a lad wandered into the road, looking the other way, but not one glance at what was coming up the lane he was in.  As I braked hard, I boomed

I'd look before stepping into the road if I were you!

His mates indulged in pointing and laughing, and will probably continue to do so. ;D

Good thing I wasn't in a car.  He wouldn't be able to feel the shame.  Or anything else.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mobbsy on 16 June, 2010, 10:29:21 am
An uneventul ride into Leeds city centre this morning, which is a rare thing. Sun shining, roads relatively quiet and I got to pick up some shiny bike parts from the sorting office on the way. Nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 16 June, 2010, 10:37:55 am
Yes, a woman driver tried to kill me on the A202 this morning by turning left on me (having a princess on board sign does give the level of intelligence away). Fortunately - I think it was the combination of my Nessa-Shanessa 'O' yell that stopped her from missing me  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 June, 2010, 10:41:34 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 16 June, 2010, 10:37:55 am
...the combination of my Nessa-Shanessa 'O' yell ...

Eh?

Maybe I don't want to know... :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: dkahn400 on 16 June, 2010, 11:44:02 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 16 June, 2010, 10:37:55 am
Yes, a woman driver tried to kill me on the A202 this morning by turning left on me (having a princess on board sign does give the level of intelligence away). Fortunately - I think it was the combination of my Nessa-Shanessa 'O' yell that stopped her from missing me  >:(

Stopped her from hitting you, surely?

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 16 June, 2010, 11:53:01 am
Quote from: clarion on 16 June, 2010, 10:41:34 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 16 June, 2010, 10:37:55 am
...the combination of my Nessa-Shanessa 'O' yell ...

Eh?

Maybe I don't want to know... :-\

Hee-hee my Nessa-Shanessa yell is serious business, combined with its welsh pronounciation and loud delivery it seems to stand out in the bad-lands of South-east Lahndahn.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 June, 2010, 08:57:22 pm
On the exit from Walworth Rd RAB (less than 1km from work), I was passing the roadworks and I got pinged by some gravel from a car wheel.  It went 'Poing' off my front wheel.  Exactly the way spokes oughtn't.  Then there was a ticking sound on the way home.  Sure enough, when I got home (18km later), I found I had a broken spoke. :(

Still went out for a short ride with TGL, mind ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 16 June, 2010, 10:20:36 pm
Heading home via the Innocent, climbing the Tunnel, found a woman who had come off her bike going down the Tunnel. Her friend was with her and they both said she was ok and didn't need any help so I left them to it, but she's lucky. It could have been really nasty. As it is, she's going to have great scabs to pick.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: redshift on 16 June, 2010, 11:00:16 pm
En route home, came to the off-road farm track which I sometimes use.  The sign says 'No motor vehicles 0700-1000, 1600-1900,' with an exception for agricultural vehicles.  It's a rat run, of course - but it is a real farm track, and a real farmer uses it.  It's about 1755.

So... entering the lane were a private hire taxi, a Vauxhall Ugly Agila in a nasty shade of green, and myself.  Round the turn we go and... oh dear.  There appears to be a hyooge tractor, with spikes and gore and all sorts of evil things hanging off it, heading towards us.  I can see it's a hiding to nothing, the lane is narrow at that point, so I whip round and head back out to the wider section (a three way junction) to await the reversing cars and the tractor.

Pause.

Ok, here's the taxi, happy chap with a big grin on his face.  He reverses past me (I'm standing in a gateway) and around the corner out of the way.  He leans out of his side window and shouts to me "She won't reverse out!"

Me: "Whut...?"

Cue ten minutes of audible heated argument from up the road.  A VW beetle arrives and we wave the driver off - he goes back to the road and disappears.  A 4X4 turns up, we stop him too, and give him the glad tidings.  I can now see the vehicles backed up behind the tractor - at least three or four cars and a van.  Ho hum.

Pause.

Sounds of reversing car.  Angry shouting.  Vauxhall Ugly reverses out, followed by tractor and comet-tail of cars and vans, with a woman hanging out of the window whilst reversing and shouting abuse at the tractor driver.  Her teenage son is in the passenger seat joining in.  We're all laughing like drains, which for some reason makes her even angrier.

It seems a shame that someone gifted with such an anger management problem should also be blessed with so little brain that
a. She doesn't know that she had no right to be on that bit of road in the first place, and
b. She has terrible taste in cars.

The taxi driver looked over to me and said "Who does she think she is, Cruella De Vil...?"

Sadly, I was so engrossed in the whole spectacle that I clean forgot to take pictures, although that may be a good thing, as I think that might have made her head explode.   ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 17 June, 2010, 09:02:53 am
I ended riding with a friendly ozzie from Oxford Circus to Ealing as we were both stopping at the red lights. We had a chat, a laugh at the BSM Instructor who almost took him out, the state of the world, the s**ding easterly going home last night. Most unusual, most pleasant.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 17 June, 2010, 09:32:15 am
I hope that the North-Easterly that has been blowing against me for the last couple of days buggers off.  The ride home has been faster, and easier, but it doesn't make up for the effort of getting in!

Last night it wasn't that cold, but the wind blowing fast felt a bit brisk when I was leaving work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 June, 2010, 09:37:11 am
Slow ride in today.  Balham Hill was humiliating.  Not shabby speedwise, but, with headwind, long queues of traffic at narrow points, and lots of roadworks (these last two may be related), it was over an hour door to door. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 17 June, 2010, 09:41:05 am
I've been pondering the seasonality of road kill. June is ickle baby wabbits and big fat hedgehogs. Round here, anyway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 17 June, 2010, 09:47:08 am
The run across London this morning just seemed to flow.  Lights changed as I rolled up, gaps in stationary traffic at lights appeared in just the right places to aid my filtering. 

I even managed to filter up to one place behind the head of the queue at Holborn circus and catch a "sprint lead-out" style tow from the Bus in front as I accelerated onto High Holborn, before darting out from behind to take the points ;)

I had a huge smile ;D :smug: as I folded the bike to go into the office.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 17 June, 2010, 08:38:04 pm
On my way home today, I swore:

At the wind
At the potholes in the  Uxbridge Road
At the wind
At stupid drivers who cant signal
At the wind
At the stupid girl who filtered inside a bendy
At the wind
At the stupid cyclists who cant behave or ride
Did I mention the wind?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 17 June, 2010, 09:44:27 pm
I have found my new commuting route home:

Frimley - Frimley Green - Deepcut - Knaphill (via the Basingstoke Canal) - Chobham - S'dale. 15mile of rural roads with a beautiful section of towpath included.

Just a pity about the headwind this evening and the current roadworks in Knaphill.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 17 June, 2010, 11:01:37 pm
Quote from: Oaky on 17 June, 2010, 09:47:08 am
I even managed to filter up to one place behind the head of the queue at Holborn circus and catch a "sprint lead-out" style tow from the Bus in front as I accelerated onto High Holborn, before darting out from behind to take the points ;)

I had one of those bus moments last week - manage to catch it as it pulled away from a stop and got a tow from Welling to Bexleyheath (about 2 miles?) at over 40km/h all the way. One of those lucky breaks where it was on a clear main road with no passengers waiting at stops. Just cruised along without feeling I was making the slightest effort. Ruddy marvellous.

Moments like that make up for times like tonight when I was grinding into a stiff headwind all the way home...  :-\

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 17 June, 2010, 11:06:45 pm
Another couple of none eventful, yet enjoyable rides.  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 17 June, 2010, 11:17:54 pm
This week, I have been mostly smiling and saying hello.  I decided to say hello, or grin lots, or say something cheerful, to all the cyclists that I see on my commute.  I'm the nutter on the bus in the ASL, I am. 

But they've nearly all said hello back :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 18 June, 2010, 09:24:02 am
Rode in on the proper bike today. Whew it's soooo much faster.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 18 June, 2010, 09:43:33 am
Does the school run count assuming it's done onna bike.
Assuming so, g.d. & I have done the school run onna tandem each day this week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 June, 2010, 09:47:12 am
Course it does! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 18 June, 2010, 10:14:38 am
Riding up the first hill of the day at 8am it was too warm to be in the sun so I rode in the shade of the hedge :)

Met some End to Enders on the road coming in Taunton and showed them the way to a cafe.  Two French, one British, one with a trailer, planning to take a month because they are going through Wales.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 June, 2010, 10:57:07 am
Slower ride in this morning, as I was carrying full panniers.

I chatted to a nice chap at Mitcham Eastfield.  We were stopped at the level crossing (and I didn't want to carry my bike over the footbridge).  He was checking his spoke tensions, which seemed a bit low.  I offered a spoke key, but he suggested he was OK.  We discussed commutes - he goes up to Oxford street, which is a fair ride from where we were, and he said he was suffering from friday legs.  We chatted about tandems and touring, too, before he was off and away when i got stuck behind some traffic.

I also saw the forumite with the lovely Cliff Shrubb.  I shall put him in the spotting thread, but, again, it was I who was spotted.

A nice ride in, though I don't like going round Stockwell or through Oval junctions any slower than normal.

Headwind, loose cleat on new shoe, roadworks and queueing traffic all slowed things more.  But I got there, and I enjoyed it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 18 June, 2010, 11:23:10 am
Quote from: clarion on 18 June, 2010, 10:57:07 am

But I got there, and I enjoyed it.
That's a relief.

<puts away shovel and trailer>
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 18 June, 2010, 11:26:13 am
Quote from: clarion on 18 June, 2010, 10:57:07 am
I also saw the forumite with the lovely Cliff Shrubb.

ChrisL I believe.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 June, 2010, 11:27:40 am
Yeah, I thought it was ( I have a shocking memory for names/faces :-[ ) but I hadn't checked.  It was indeed ChrisL.  Your name came up in the conversation too, as it happens :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 18 June, 2010, 11:28:50 am
Now I am intrigued.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ktcita on 18 June, 2010, 06:48:13 pm
On the way home I was annoyed (again) by slower cyclists whom, having caught up to me at a red light, cycle around me and park themselves right in front of me so that my take off is slowed.

In the grand scheme of things it's not so bad I guess. 

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ktcita on 18 June, 2010, 06:54:04 pm
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 17 June, 2010, 11:17:54 pm
This week, I have been mostly smiling and saying hello.  I decided to say hello, or grin lots, or say something cheerful, to all the cyclists that I see on my commute.  I'm the nutter on the bus in the ASL, I am. 

But they've nearly all said hello back :)

Nice technique. I tried the same with black cab drivers and motorbikes and so far it seems to be working in my favour. Much more courteous they are after they've been forced to make eye and smile contact.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 18 June, 2010, 07:11:58 pm
It works better if you're female, with us blokes people just look nervous and wonder why the nutter always picks on them. ;D

I was hoping the little bit of drizzle would bugger off, but I need to leave now so I can get home and go to Sainsburys before they close.  At least the mornings headwind has been a tailwind all week for the evening commute (or strictly speaking for the last two days, very early morning commute home!)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tourist Tony on 18 June, 2010, 08:59:25 pm
I finished my last night shift and sped home to change bikes. All Galaxied up, I set off for Te*co. After all, you HAVE to do a supermarket run when your toilet paper is running out....
A BSO passed me as I waited to set off up Balcombe Road, and I caught them and passed them only to stop at the pelican crossing by the station. Full suspension, low saddle, obese woman on her mobile AND reading.....Down to the lights and she caught me again as I sat in the ASL.
Island by island, she RLJ'd across the junction as I theatrically acted out, for the benefit of the drivers behind, my best "what a tit" piece.
Two junctions later, reality is restored. An oncoming Luton van stops almost level with me, and the following car immediately overtakes straight at me.
"Winker!" I shout. Then "Towser!" at the one who is following him. The third car, unlike the other two, has clearly not seen me, and rather than the two-fingered salute I got from the others he jerks his wheel so hard he nearly (pity) hits the van.
On to Te*co. The BSO from hell I saw on another trip is there again, but when  I return to the bike after a natter with a woman whose husband wants to do the FNRttC I find a middle-aged couple on brand-new "comfort bikes"
She is on her first ride, 1.5 miles each way, in ten years and is apologetic about being a wimp. Cue a lovely chat about how that isn't the case, and a chance to give some apposite and well-receiived encouragement and advice. Real people on real bikes doing ordinary things. Yay!
Then I notice my dear old Brooks has a small split through the rivet. Arse. Death of a friend.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 18 June, 2010, 09:43:18 pm
TT ends on a sombre note like a modernist novel.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 18 June, 2010, 10:59:57 pm
Fuck me the blue paint on the "superhighways" looks really, really slippery. I stuck with it for about 100 yards and then found another route. You could see the diesel sitting on top of it. first time I've ridden on it in the wet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 19 June, 2010, 01:49:05 am
well I shalln't repeat that route home.

Same route as thursday only I followed the canal from Knaphill to Woking before turning for Chobham.

The extra tow path is better surfaced but so much busier and has a number of low bridges to slow you. However someone needs to educate the commuters on the Woking - Chobham A road how much space to leave when overtaking.

sequence was:

car 1 old BMW, tap wing mirror as they passed, gesture to leave more space, driver raises hand in appology

Car 2 Merc S600, lots of space and a wave from both driver and passenger.

Car 3 Ford focus, tap wing mirror and gesture again!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wobbly John on 19 June, 2010, 11:06:12 am
To the young woman in a car that overtook me slowly last night, looking at my arse and then blushing as we made eye contact: you  cheered an old chap up considerably  :smug:, even if you may have been thinking "What a twit".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 21 June, 2010, 01:58:09 pm
Quote from: Wobbly John on 19 June, 2010, 11:06:12 am
...you  cheered an old chap up considerably...

Surely the first person possessive here, viz, 'my'?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 21 June, 2010, 02:08:16 pm
Is it half term again or something? Central London seemed strangely traffic-lite this morning.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 21 June, 2010, 02:36:18 pm
I thought that too. I wonder if a lot of people with no school run are away or something. Even the private schools don't break up for a couple of weeks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 21 June, 2010, 02:42:26 pm
Exams?

Wobbly J, have you checked your lycra? How see-through is it?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 21 June, 2010, 02:45:39 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 21 June, 2010, 02:42:26 pm
Exams?

I think that must be it, which suggests that a shocking amount of the morning traffic is 16 and 17 year olds being driven or driving to school. We really do need school buses here.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 21 June, 2010, 03:09:16 pm
Quote from: Butterfly on 21 June, 2010, 02:45:39 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 21 June, 2010, 02:42:26 pm
Exams?

I think that must be it, which suggests that a shocking amount of the morning traffic is 16 and 17 year olds being driven or driving to school. We really do need school buses here.

Two of my neighbours drive their (11-14 year old) kids to school. Purposefully, they're not just dropping them off on the way to work. The school? Seven minutes walk away. Apparently they'll be late without the ride...

In the interests of diplomacy, I've not suggested the more obvious solution.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 21 June, 2010, 07:06:37 pm
First commute for three and a half weeks today.
My desk on the second floor seemed a long way up!

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 21 June, 2010, 07:22:48 pm
Quote from: citizen smudge on 21 June, 2010, 02:08:16 pm
Is it half term again or something? Central London seemed strangely traffic-lite this morning.

d.

National Bike Week, innit?  All the motons have seen the error of their ways, and are on bikes, taking up soooo much less space.

Yeah, Right. ::-)

Totally normal ride this AM.  But on realising that the above event is on, I've decided to ride a different bike to work each day this week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 21 June, 2010, 11:12:07 pm
Extraordinary day today.

First up was a nerk in an old Saab who hooted all the way from 100 yards off the back of the stationary traffic we were both approaching. Cue much abuse about not using the cycle path, yada yada. Haven't had one of these for ages.

Then a couple of miles from work I came closer to going over someone's bonnet as I have all the time I've been bike riding. Lung busting bellow of YOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO !!  caught the driver's attention (I would like to think) and we managed to avoid each other.

Then on the way home this evening a bus casually pulled out in front of me from a minor road. I said nothing but my face clearly communicated something 'cos the driver hollered out "What's wrong ?"

"You didn't see me"
"Yes I did"
"Well you should have given way then"
"But I said sorry"

FFS. It's alright to nearly kill someone if you say sorry then.

Sheesh.

And all this on the first day of Bike Week. That's over a year's worth of excitement all in one day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 22 June, 2010, 07:29:26 am
A strange Busby Berkeley/Disney moment on the trip home last night...half a dozen or so young rabbits at 2' to 3' intervals on the verge as I approached they dived into the verge one after the other at about 1 second intervals.   All that was missing was the splash of water and the cartoon bluebirds.  Weird.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 22 June, 2010, 07:58:29 am
First commute on the Dave Yates today....

No major incidents, and dispite having bigger, slower rolling tyres, it is just as fast (as I don't need to slow down as much for the potholes as I do on the Ridley)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 June, 2010, 09:11:58 am
Good stuff.

I had a pleasantly smooth ride today, although the Cycle Superhighway works at Stockwell and Oval held up traffic back as far as Clapham Common, and it's difficult to get through :(

I'm not looking forward to the unveiling of these 'facilities' :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 22 June, 2010, 09:28:25 am
Time up Wallaces hill 3m30 with a saddle bag

Tried to do a cyclocross dismount coming to a stop on the pavement near work and managed to make a mess of it.  The SQR needed adjustment when I got to work because of this
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 June, 2010, 09:53:54 am
I saw two appalling pieces of stupid leaning.

Firstly, a road bike rider headed up the left of a truck standing at traffic lights, and then grabbed hold of the side rails so as not to have to unclip :o :o :o

Later, a similarly lazy and dim chap, also on a road bike, came to a stop beside some roadworks.  He put his hand out to the cone next to him to steady himself, and, in doing so, caused the section of barrier behind him to drop out of the slot.

Of course, he apologised to the guy doing the roadworks, jumped off, and put the barrier back in place.

Did he bollocks!  He just shrugged and left it to that poor sod to have to sort it out.  Selfish git.  I hope the roadworker goes round to his office later and pushes a pile of filing onto the floor...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 22 June, 2010, 10:21:11 am
Riding through Haslingfield, I pass an older couple I see out and about. Chap is on a Byercycles Aravis like mine. We get chatting, and he reveals he's 81! He looked in better shape than most 60 year olds I know.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: John Henry on 22 June, 2010, 04:20:58 pm
I saw a light aircraft which the pilot had just landed in a hedge 50 yards short of the runway.

No serious injury, according to a bystander (hope it's true), but more emergency vehicles than I've seen together in one place for a long time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 22 June, 2010, 04:23:08 pm
I bought Regina into work today - and it was a quick 5 mile ride.

And I have a 20 mile ride home...  :thumbsup: ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JJ on 22 June, 2010, 04:37:39 pm
Quote from: DrMekon on 22 June, 2010, 10:21:11 am
Riding through Haslingfield, I pass an older couple I see out and about. Chap is on a Byercycles Aravis like mine. We get chatting, and he reveals he's 81! He looked in better shape than most 60 year olds I know.

You should have popped in!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tourist Tony on 22 June, 2010, 04:54:56 pm
At a roundabout this morning  a Porsche driven by a juvenile does VERY fast u-turn without signals, causing me to stop hard. Yes I was watching...the shout of "Twat!" did indeed come from me, but the one of "F*cking w*nking bastard!" actually came from the lorry that pulled up next to me.
Driver winds down window.
"Next time I just keep going and see what he does then"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 22 June, 2010, 10:04:29 pm
Mr Ocado van, started pulling out of a side road just as I approached going passed, so that he was ~4ft ish away at one point.  Probably got too annoyed, but did the palms up 'what's going on', and a 'how's my driving' point at the name on his van.

Cyclist up ahead of me, commuter it seems.  Lights turn red (at least 5-10 secs before he gets to them)  he sails straight through.  :-\

But what a great evening, good ride home. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 22 June, 2010, 11:15:26 pm
Had an odd one on the run in to work this morning. I'd pulled up at a t-junction, waiting to turn left as a bus was approaching from the right. The bus slowed down to a crawl, I wondered what was happening, then the driver looked at me, and pointed to the bus stop just after the junction and waved me out - he was going to stop, so let me out so I wouldn't have to go around him afterwards  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 22 June, 2010, 11:53:35 pm
Quote from: JJ on 22 June, 2010, 04:37:39 pm
Quote from: DrMekon on 22 June, 2010, 10:21:11 am
Riding through Haslingfield, I pass an older couple I see out and about. Chap is on a Byercycles Aravis like mine. We get chatting, and he reveals he's 81! He looked in better shape than most 60 year olds I know.

You should have popped in!

I ride through twice every day. PM me if you fancy offering me a cup of tea!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 23 June, 2010, 12:38:35 am
Got my legs back today after several months of interrupted riding. Negotiated what is now becoming the standard SMIDSY on the double roundabouts of Crystal Palace Parade on my way in. Got hit by a Vicar in a Micra on the way out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RichL on 23 June, 2010, 09:46:32 am
To the guy who not once, but TWICE, tried to barge in front of me while I was queuing to get my bike off the train at Swindon at about 8:10 this morning: You are a very rude man. Sort yourself out and have a little consideration for your fellow travellers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 23 June, 2010, 11:56:51 am
Passed this on my way to work and just had to capture the image:

(http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1047/4726617311_d1ba98502b.jpg)

A hijab shop...

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 23 June, 2010, 06:20:40 pm
Left work at 3:30, to get some reading done. The roads were strangely quiet, I wonder why that was?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 24 June, 2010, 08:49:13 am
A fox chasing rabbits.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 24 June, 2010, 09:23:51 am
In Aldgate, westbound coming into the bus-bit, following a slow cyclist as it was not safe to overtake, a wingnut (knobbly MTB, iPod) squeezes past at highish speed on the inside. If there was 1" clear each side, I would be surprised. At the lights 15m ahead, I say to him "excuse me mate, but you've gone past it - the undertaker is a few shops back over there". I think the subtlety was lost on him.

(He also tried to cycle off faster than me which was quite funny)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 24 June, 2010, 11:36:00 am
Had a fun encounter last night

About a half a mile from home I was suddenly overtaken on the downhill.  It was a chap on a road bike with a dartmoor classic jersey on.  I assume he is training for the same, the roads around here are jammed up with 'em.

Well, mr sportive had choosen wrongly for the attack because

1) I was on my Orbea
2) I was on a training day so nicely warmed up
3) I was right near home

I accelerated to get on his wheel, around the tight bend behind him.  Then there is a slight slope so I counter attacked there, up to 45kph and more.  Not bothered about holding the speed because....the next turning is my house!  Victory is mine..bhahahaha
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 24 June, 2010, 02:01:40 pm
Highlight of my morning was the stunningly elegant young lady who passed me on a Pashley outside Victoria station. She rode with confidence, like she really knew how to handle a bike, but at the same time made it look so effortless. And she looked amazing in her black dress and shades, hair tied up but not hidden away inside a plastic lid.

<sigh>

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RichForrest on 24 June, 2010, 05:09:36 pm
You going to tell us how many extra miles you did following her then?  ;) ;D ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 24 June, 2010, 05:18:33 pm
Quote from: RichForrest on 24 June, 2010, 05:09:36 pm
You going to tell us how many extra miles you did following her then?  ;) ;D ;D

It was but a fleeting encounter. She went left almost immediately, while I went right.

Perhaps if I hadn't been running a little late for work...

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 24 June, 2010, 05:28:19 pm
Some young lad on fixed was chasing me  today- when he caught me at the next set of lights, which I stopped at (not before, you notice- the SS Holdsworth is by far my nippiest ride) he automatically launched into a chat up line, (don't for a minute think the red light would have stopped him otherwise). Then,obviously now he was close up,  suddenly realised I was not the twenty/thirtysomething he had thought I was and began to stammer with embarrassment.  Luckily for him the lights changed and I let him get a few pedal strokes ahead and make his getaway.  Poor lamb.  I was very pleased however, that the first of his chat up lines was, "Yay, you're quick- cool ride" even if a little bit cheesy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 24 June, 2010, 06:10:59 pm
Saw a roadkill snake tonight.

Also, I'm not particularly impressed to see the signs warning that the local council have decided that they are going to resurface a country lane on my commute that suffered quite badly over the winter. Resurfacing is fine - but they could have done it a couple of months ago, not a week after I change jobs and will be unlikely to ever ride that road again  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 24 June, 2010, 06:15:28 pm
I went into work early this morning, left my humble abode at 06.30.  

Pro and cons really.  On the one hand having fewer cars was pleasant but it was noticeable how much more boy racer it all was. At least when there is a bit more traffic it has the effect of slowing them dwn slightly.

The demographic, for want of a better word, is different too.  Many more commercial  Bob the builder type vehicles and multi occupancy white vans being driven by thugs.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 24 June, 2010, 06:38:50 pm
I get something similar in the evenings.  Often there's a lot less traffic, but it can move a lot faster.  Since a great deal of it is Private Hire Vehicles (taking people too/from Pubs etc), that not necessarily a good thing, they don't seem to demonstrate a great deal of road sense. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 24 June, 2010, 07:20:43 pm
I'd like to apologise to the wildlife of Suffolk for my whimpering on the way home.

My arse is still sore, k?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: redshift on 24 June, 2010, 07:36:16 pm
Not commuting, but crossing the road outside Christie Hospital, on the way to see Dad.  Didsbury Fixie Chick couldn't be bothered to stop at the crossing, and nearly took me out.   ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 24 June, 2010, 09:06:28 pm
I had a nice encounter with a bus today. A bus driver on Slateford Road anticipated very well that I'd need to pull out to get around a car parked in the bike lane, so he held back, gave me plenty of space and protected me from the traffic behind him. A while later he'd overtaken me and I made a point of slowing down and letting him out of a stop, to a wave and a smile.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 24 June, 2010, 09:11:37 pm
Someone in a Civic Type R half-wheeled me all the way down Marlborough Road.  They weren't even on the phone, and I didn't know them.  Weird.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 25 June, 2010, 09:41:20 am
Lovely ride in with son. His first time back on the good bike for ages, and first time he's ridden over 10 miles for months. Did very well, although he was whimpering a bit by the time we got to leeds city centre. He's declined to ride back; he's taking the train  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 June, 2010, 09:47:46 am
Cool.

I had a good ride in this morning.  Two absolutely appalling pieces of motorised behaviour, but a good ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 25 June, 2010, 10:01:43 am
I had a similar one, Clarion.  Couple of seriously annoyingly close passes, but a lovely ride anyway - the first bit of last Friday's FNRttC's route, although it was much more pleasant in the middle of the night than at 7:30 this morning  :)

And I got to work (about 6annahalf miles) in 25 minutes.  That's quite quick for me!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 June, 2010, 10:14:52 am
The first of mine was a van overtaking me at speed in a 20mph zone as I was indicating to turn right.

The second was a large truck which arrived at a busy junction straddling two lanes, and ran into the ASL reservoir.  Then, with the light still red, crept quite deliberately forward over the forward stop line, effectively running a red light twice.

That's how people get killed in this city.  Not filtering up the left >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 25 June, 2010, 11:47:14 am
Whilst stationary at a junction, waiting to pull out into the main road, I was walked into by a tourist so intent on gawping at the beauty of our fair city she didn't notice she was crossing a road or that I was in it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 25 June, 2010, 12:05:21 pm
This morning I had yet another of the close calls that I am experiencing rather too frequently.  The usual scenario involves me approaching a set of traffic lights and noticing that they change from green to amber and then to red in a way that gives me plenty of warning that I should stop before the white line.  What seems to happen these days is that I slow down and stop in a fairly relaxed way (no endos, no burning rubber) only to discover that the driver of a motor vehicle behind me has decided that, as the light has only been red for a few seconds, it would be silly to stop just because there's someone stopped in front of them.  When this happened today, the vehicle behind me was a transit-type job that skimmed a couple of inches from my right hand side as it took a high speed left hand turn in front of me.

Each time this happens, I think I should modify my behaviour and run red lights so as to avoid being piled into by the red-light-jumping vehicles behind me.  But that would be not good. What am we to do?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 25 June, 2010, 12:20:25 pm
Quote from: PaulR on 25 June, 2010, 12:05:21 pm
... What seems to happen these days is that I slow down and stop in a fairly relaxed way (no endos, no burning rubber) only to discover that the driver of a motor vehicle behind me has decided that, as the light has only been red for a few seconds, it would be silly to stop just because there's someone stopped in front of them.  ...

Each time this happens, I think I should modify my behaviour and run red lights so as to avoid being piled into by the red-light-jumping vehicles behind me.  But that would be not good. What am we to do?

That's one of my worries too -- there are a couple of places on my commute where I often wonder if I'm going to get hit from behind when I pull up for a red light (or even an amber light, which most motorists seem to interpret as an instruction to accelerate rather than stop >:( ).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 25 June, 2010, 12:26:18 pm
Had a van driver berate me once for not running a red light - as he had wanted to do.  He told me I was putting my life at risk "pulling a manoeuvre like that", i.e. stopping at a light going red.  He couldn't quite grasp the fact that the only time I'd be in danger is when idiots like him tried to run a red light.  I'm a cyclist, so obviously my fault.  ::-)
 
But on the lighter side of things...

FULL HOUSE!  First one in ... well, too long.  Wednesday's and Thursday's commutes were exactly the same distance (to 1/10km) and only one second of cycling time difference.  (Guess that could be a contribution to the Numbers thread.)  In spite of some of the numpties, it is sooo much better to be on the bike than using the Tube!  :thumbsup:
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 25 June, 2010, 02:01:00 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 25 June, 2010, 12:26:18 pm
First one in ... well, too long.  Wednesday's and Thursday's commutes were exactly the same distance (to 1/10km) and only one second of cycling time difference. 

Cool!

I was very surprised (and a little chuffed) one day when I rode out on the fast bike to meet chief (otp) for a pint.  I really pushed it on the way there, knowing I'd get to sit down and rest with a recovery drink or two afterwards.  I decided to take it easier on the way home.  The stats told a different story though - the return journey was the same distance (to 0.01 mile) and exactly the same time, to the second!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 25 June, 2010, 04:48:59 pm
5 Days, 6 Bikes.
Monday: Soho Trek (Belt drive - normal commuting steed)
Tuesday: Dawes Discovery Twin (Tandem)
Wednesday: HPVelotechnik Grasshopper (which is yearning to go back across Salisbury Plain again)
Thursday: Windcheetah (which isn't)
Friday: Dawes Super Galaxy.

And I did a learning-how-to-be-a-ride-marshall ride on the Brompton on Tuesday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 June, 2010, 04:52:55 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 25 June, 2010, 12:26:18 pm
Had a van driver berate me once for not running a red light - as he had wanted to do.  He told me I was putting my life at risk "pulling a manoeuvre like that", i.e. stopping at a light going red.  He couldn't quite grasp the fact that the only time I'd be in danger is when idiots like him tried to run a red light.  I'm a cyclist, so obviously my fault.  ::-)

I've had that.  A few times.  It's completely inexplicable.
 
Quote
FULL HOUSE!


It's a great feeling, isn't it? :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RJ on 25 June, 2010, 05:24:56 pm
Quote from: Kirst on 25 June, 2010, 11:47:14 am
Whilst stationary at a junction, waiting to pull out into the main road, I was walked into by a tourist so intent on gawping at the beauty of our fair city she didn't notice she was crossing a road or that I was in it.

 :o

Was that somewhere genuinely beautiful, or was she on the secret Irvine Welsh highlights tour???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ktcita on 25 June, 2010, 06:54:40 pm
This afternoon whilst at a red light I had a chat with another cyclist about the madness of going up the left-hand-side of large vehicles. It seemed to stop the racer boy who was just about to do said manoeuvre around the bus in front of us. He stopped, took a breath, learned the art of red light patience and lived to ride another day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 25 June, 2010, 06:58:23 pm
24.5 miles in 1hr14min, door to door. First time i've broken evens :-D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 25 June, 2010, 07:03:45 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 25 June, 2010, 06:58:23 pm
24.5 miles in 1hr14min, door to door. First time i've broken evens :-D

Not quite.
Evens is 25 miles in 1hr 15min.

That's a mile every 3 minutes, so subtract 1min 30secs from 1hr 15mins and you have 1hr 13mins 30secs.

Close, but no cigar. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 25 June, 2010, 07:25:29 pm
Quote from: RJ on 25 June, 2010, 05:24:56 pm

Was that somewhere genuinely beautiful, or was she on the secret Irvine Welsh highlights tour???
High Street.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 25 June, 2010, 08:24:47 pm
Quote from: teethgrinder on 25 June, 2010, 07:03:45 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 25 June, 2010, 06:58:23 pm
24.5 miles in 1hr14min, door to door. First time i've broken evens :-D

Not quite.
Evens is 25 miles in 1hr 15min.

That's a mile every 3 minutes, so subtract 1min 30secs from 1hr 15mins and you have 1hr 13mins 30secs.

Close, but no cigar. :(
spoilsport. It was 4:58 when I left work and *just* ticked to 6:12 when I pulled in to my drive. and it is 39.5Km on the way home. So I'm calling it evens!

Either way, it's stonking for someone who used to come second from last in the sack race.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 25 June, 2010, 08:27:09 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 25 June, 2010, 06:58:23 pm
24.5 miles in 1hr14min, door to door. First time i've broken evens :-D

Sigh...
Have not yet broken evens on my commute and I doubt I ever will!
This week, however, I did do the fastest commute of the year...
54.5km in 2h05 while climbing 830m...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 25 June, 2010, 08:30:18 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 25 June, 2010, 08:24:47 pm
Quote from: teethgrinder on 25 June, 2010, 07:03:45 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 25 June, 2010, 06:58:23 pm
24.5 miles in 1hr14min, door to door. First time i've broken evens :-D

Not quite.
Evens is 25 miles in 1hr 15min.

That's a mile every 3 minutes, so subtract 1min 30secs from 1hr 15mins and you have 1hr 13mins 30secs.

Close, but no cigar. :(
spoilsport. It was 4:58 when I left work and *just* ticked to 6:12 when I pulled in to my drive. So I'm calling it evens!

Either way, it's stonking for someone who used to come second from last in the sack race.

It's still not evens. The timekeeper's decision is final. :P

You must have tried too hard in the sack race. I always came in last but can manage evens for over 100 miles on a good day. :smug: ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 25 June, 2010, 08:31:44 pm
Quote from: pdm on 25 June, 2010, 08:27:09 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 25 June, 2010, 06:58:23 pm
24.5 miles in 1hr14min, door to door. First time i've broken evens :-D

Sigh...
Have not yet broken evens on my commute and I doubt I ever will!
This week, however, I did do the fastest commute of the year...
54.5km in 2h05 while climbing 830m...

You'd easily manage evens if you went somewhere less hilly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 25 June, 2010, 09:00:51 pm
On the commute tonight just after 18:00, I saw a pedestrian who'd been hit by a taxi at the lights on Aldwych   :(. Two police cars were in attendance (one of which was already there, the other had picked its way through the nose-to-tail traffic along Aldwych at the same time I was).

The man who'd been hit seemed to be conscious and talking to the police, but was still lying in the road.  The taxi had a shattered section of windscreen.

I hope the guy's OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 June, 2010, 09:35:33 am
Big incident at New Kent Road last night causing me to re-route.  The whole road was taped off, there was a Merc in Meadow Road, and I saw a camera on a tripod on the central res.

So I used CS7 past E&C.  What a joke!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 26 June, 2010, 02:58:34 pm
Yesterday I did my 100th commute round trip this year
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 26 June, 2010, 05:41:26 pm
Rode into the office this morning, no problem, left the office this afternoon, all going ok until I got to a set of lights in Cowley.

Lights on red, I stop.  Lights change, car in RH lane moves forward, turning right, I set off and sense a vehicle too close to my RHS.  I look and a complete and utter idiot in a BMW is trying to pass me in a space that would maybe allow a very narrow thing through....

I shout at said idiot driver, who happens to have his windows open, long shouty conversation ensues whereby I ask him to stop so we can discuss said incident.  He obviously decides that stopping is not what he wants to do, so speeds off...

IDIOT!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 26 June, 2010, 06:50:59 pm
Why do you think it's called FALLING LANE?   ;) ;) ;D

IGMC
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: longers on 28 June, 2010, 07:49:37 am
First commute in over six months with gears, quite nice to be able to freewheel down to Hollingworth.

Didn't see very many flags about.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 28 June, 2010, 07:53:57 am
Quiet one this morning, had a bit of banter with a cabby, he passes me, wide, then indicates right.  I pass him again whilst he is waiting to turn, then he passes me again, stops to turn right, so I pass him again, and once more he then passes me, as he does so, I say (through the open window) "Are you a little lost?" (complete with cheeky grin) "Yeah I guess so" is his reply "Buy a map then!" I say, to which I got a hand jesture reply, but the face was smiling so I rode on in a good mood....

Sun is shining, birds are tweeting, life is good :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 28 June, 2010, 09:06:55 am
Good ride.  Just one scary moment when someone pulled out onto the E&C RAB in front of me (and a line of traffic) then just froze in a panic.  I said some rude words.

Fewer flags.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 28 June, 2010, 09:21:04 am
As I'm working from home my 'commute' was a meander into Richmond Park on my mtb. There's one section of rocks and roots that's always defeated me and I usually end up putting a foot down. Managed to nail it today
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 28 June, 2010, 10:01:23 am
On the "training" route today, so climb the biggest hill on the Blackdowns, down Monument Hill, climb again, go to work

Amusingly, on my way to the descent I passed a MTB commuter going the other way.  When I'd climbed the second time and descended again into Taunton, I passed the same commuter.   I resisted the temptatation to start a conversation with him
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 28 June, 2010, 10:27:44 am
Took it easy today after yesterday's exertions - got the Brompton out and had a gentle pootle to the station by the quieter (and flatter) lanes route. Lovely sunny morning for it, and enjoyed riding at a more relaxed pace for a change.  :thumbsup:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 28 June, 2010, 12:27:07 pm
I encountered Oaky's and Clarions incidents on Friday evening - it's quite disconcerting when you're bowling along with no cares in the world and the promise of a cold beer at the end of a relxed commute when, all of a sudden, you sense there's something wrong with the traffic.  At Aldwych, it was the melee of cars squeezing past the copper outside Bush House that alerted me, and then i realised that the copper seemed to be actually standing over the chap in the road to stop anyone else running him over!  Then the E&C closure came as less of a surprise - the OKR had been shut down by Burgess Park on Thursday eveing, so I was ready for a detour down the Wlaworth Road, which actually turned out nicely as it brought be down through Dulwich and round Dulwich Common, which was looking lovely in the warm sunshine.

On today's commute I was on the East London Line to Shoreditch (accompanying MissR to first day of work experience) and then footed across to Holborn along the Hipster Spice Route, watching in disbelief at the number of nitwits (I like that word) skipping through the traffic and through the red lights on bikes with freewheels and no rear brake.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 28 June, 2010, 12:38:12 pm
Quote from: PaulR on 28 June, 2010, 12:27:07 pm
watching in disbelief at the number of nitwits (I like that word) skipping through the traffic and through the red lights on bikes with freewheels and no rear brake.

Saw a chap this morning for whom the word nitwit isn't nearly strong enough. He was heading south from London Bridge towards Borough High Street and shot through a red light on the wrong side of the road, just as it turned green for traffic coming the other way. Did he immediately get out of the way of oncoming cars, buses and trucks? No, he made them wait for him as he weaved his way through.

Illegal, arrogant and verging on suicidal. Not sure I'd have believed it if I hadn't seen it with my own eyes.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adam on 28 June, 2010, 12:52:50 pm
A lovely commute in today. 

As I went to get the commuter bike out of the garage, I remembered that I hadn't bothered to do anything about replacing the front brake cable that has snapped on Friday when doing an emergency stop to pick up a discarded England flag.  I therefore had to take the Planet X, so with a quick transfer of my work stuff into a rucksack, I was off.

Sunshine, birds singing, green fields.  Bliss.

Hardly any traffic on the local roads, although as I went over the M1, I grinned at the sight of the usual jams.  On the final stretch into work, zooming along at 22 mph, I went past a police speed trap/ANPR check point and gave the officers a cheery wave as I weaved around their vehicles.

No England flags displayed on any cars on my commute in, although there was one car with some French flags on!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 28 June, 2010, 01:06:59 pm
Shaved a minute off my fixed gear commute.  Can do better.  But then I'm still tweaking the bike's set-up and while the seat isin the right place, the handlebars aren't right.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 28 June, 2010, 01:20:14 pm
Got some brakes on it yet?  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 28 June, 2010, 04:16:18 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 28 June, 2010, 01:20:14 pm
Got some brakes on it yet?  ;)

Aye, it is now quite street legal.  Well, I did have to take off the rear reflector to make room for a rear light, but the whole bike is hi-viz.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: longers on 29 June, 2010, 07:51:01 am
That was the first wet commute for weeks and weeks and possibly weeks. Just short sleeves and shorts was still warm enough. I enjoyed it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 29 June, 2010, 09:37:08 am
That was unexpected.

But pleasant, nonetheless.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 29 June, 2010, 10:43:30 am
After 12,600km the rear marathon+ had a puncture
One every two years isn't too bad I suppose
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 29 June, 2010, 03:55:33 pm
I got moist this morning. (http://thesecretcyclist.blogspot.com/2010/06/cracking-ride-this-morning-grommit.html) ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 30 June, 2010, 10:09:17 am
Very fast ride today,  punctuated by some massively moronic behaviour - two separate U-turns into moving traffic, and a truck driver parked the wrong way in a bus lane on a red Route, who then opened the door into the way just as a group of cyclists began to overtake! :o Just a small selection of what they were up to today. 

But the riding was good.  I think it was kamma.  As I rode up our street to the first turn, I saw a large motorbike at the Give Way line waiting to turn out of the road as I was turning in.  But a car came zooming down the road, and the motorbike went over on its side.  Clipless moment, I think. 

So of course I stopped to help the rider pick up his very heavy bike, and got petrol all over my hands :-\  I even found the cover for his indicator, which was astonishingly undamaged.  He was very grateful, and mentioned a couple of times that he'd seen me.  That's OK.  I was sure he had. 

Rider was a bit shaken and a bit pissed off, but seemed OK.  The bike had scratches on its exhaust, but the paintwork seemed untouched, which surprised me.

Anyway, by way of recompense for helping, I got a friendly tailwind on the way into work.  I don't imagine I'll be so grateful when it's a headwind tonight ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 30 June, 2010, 03:12:03 pm
Rode in at 0445 today. Lots of peeps around looking considerably more awake than I felt. Bit warm too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 30 June, 2010, 06:20:00 pm
Mouthed off to a motorist on the way home. I rarely do this - in fact I can't remember the last time I did so as normally I tend to go for buses. Feel a bit bad  :( It's been a long day. Bed beckons.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Clandy on 30 June, 2010, 06:37:06 pm
Nasty 'off' in front of me at the junction of Ness Road and New Barge Pier Road this evening. Bloke on a carbon hybrid and a kid on an MTB collided. Kid was coming from Gunners park on the cycle lane, hybrid man was traveling towards Shoebury on the roadside cycle lane, kid appeared without warning and oof!.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: handcyclist on 30 June, 2010, 06:44:09 pm
Coming home at 1045 pm last night thru the badlands of Putney. Two yoofs riding the other way with very nice bright red led lights.

Unfortunately they had chosen to put them on the front.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 30 June, 2010, 07:17:47 pm
Almost still air today, gloriously warm.

Fastest commute *EVER*  ;D

1h56 for 54.5km and 830m climbing (~28.2 kph average)

And that was on the heavy duty winter commuter (VN Amazon with M+ tyres, mudguards, etc....)  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 30 June, 2010, 07:23:36 pm
The usual commute, plus a spectacularly pointless overtake followed by parking in front of me without even pulling over this evening. Still very muggy and sweaty here too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 30 June, 2010, 08:03:02 pm
Good ride, especially as there was a chap on a LHT who was as fast as me.  That was nice.

Tho there were some persistent RLJers who kept getting in front of me at the lights.  Tedious wobblers...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 30 June, 2010, 08:21:45 pm
I had a hilarious encounter with a chap who drafted me relentlessly while I dawdled to work.  I could tell he was there by the crunch-clank of his hideous gear changes.  I lost him up a couple of hills, but he caught up again at the junctions, where he twice tried to cut across me.  I didn't bother chasing him when he came a-puffing past me on the long straight drag along the bypass, until I spotted the sequence of lights and had to race past him to catch the green light.  He didn't seem to appreciate this, and he blanked me again (to be fair, he may have been out of breath - he looked a tad sweaty) as he hooked around the blind side of the moving cars.  He carried straight on where I turned left.

I suppose this means he won? ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 July, 2010, 09:11:08 am
By eck, that were fast (for me).  I now have a monthly average speed for July of 24kph.  I can't help but feel it is likely to drop.

Loads of cars in lots of jams.  They just don't get it, do they?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 01 July, 2010, 09:25:09 am
Wind: please check with the Met Office before going into action.  You were supposed to be coming in from the north today, not anywhere between south and west!

Finally replaced the rear tyre on the Ribble — used the one that was on when I bought the bike from PaulF.  I know there's not much difference between 23 and 25, but I definitely felt it on London's road this morning.  Tonight I'll be taking off the 23 and putting on the spare 25 (after I take it off the spare front wheel).  I'm sooo looking forward to fiddling with that rear mudguard again.  ::-)
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 01 July, 2010, 09:48:00 am
Quote from: clarion on 01 July, 2010, 09:11:08 am
Loads of cars in lots of jams.  They just don't get it, do they?
Indeed
MARMALADE FTW!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 01 July, 2010, 11:11:56 am
Let me explain the concept of blind corners to the car driving masses. It's not the corner that is blind. Really. It means that you - dear car drivers - can't see around it, unless you have been blessed with some kind of prescience.

Assuming - dear driver - that you have not been blessed with second sight, then consider the inadvisability of overtaking a cyclist on such corners. That way you and the oncoming vehicle won't have to vigorously exercise your brakes and risk some unpleasantly dramatic and malodorous events in your underwear when you suddenly realise you are both about to attempt to occupy the same point on the time-space continuum.

Twice. Well, I guess if they had been successful, then they would have got to the next junction a good second or two before me. Which must be worth the risk of a head-on collision.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 01 July, 2010, 11:30:58 am
Quote from: handcyclist on 30 June, 2010, 06:44:09 pm
Coming home at 1045 pm last night thru the badlands of Putney. Two yoofs riding the other way with very nice bright red led lights.

Unfortunately they had chosen to put them on the front.

Cunning.  They must spend a lot of time riding the wrong way down one-way streets.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Speshact on 01 July, 2010, 09:03:32 pm
Too depressing to think about really.

Most of the off-road tarmac near Buck House had been turned into an impromptu car park for the hundreds of cars of visitors who couldn't possibly take the bus or tube (dahling) to some royal muppets garden party.

Then a cyclist down in pain outside Methodist Central Hall. He'd cycled too close to a pedestrian who had pushed him off so he hit a bollard on the way down.  The ped'n declined to hang around and I decided phoning the ambulance was the greater need than fisticuffs. Hopefully the cyclist just had bruising or a cracked rib or two.

Down to Southwarks' offices in Tooley Street to give a cycling lesson on a new Mayor's Hire Bike to a South Korean who has been living in London for just six months and hasn't a driving licence. She was lovely but trying to get to somewhere sane to give a lesson to an on-road beginner around London Bridge is a particular challenge. It's going to be surreal when the hire scheme goes live

Then back via the StupidHighway to E&C - of course Waterloo Cars, taxis and vans are still parking in it.

(oh and let's not forget having to face down the driver of an hgv who was planning to overtake the 10 year old kid in front of him who had clearly signalled he was about to turn right off the road.)




Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Zipperhead on 01 July, 2010, 10:57:17 pm
Not once but twice on the way home tonight I was going round blind bends when I met cyclists coming the other way on my side of the road.  The first one so far over that I went to my right to avoid him!

You may be riding a fancy carbon bike, you may be wearing a nice helmet, you may be wearing fancy lycra, but if you collide with me because of your stupidity however much pain you are feeling, I will make it more painful.

Cupid stunts.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 02 July, 2010, 08:41:42 am
Seen scrawled in the grime on the back of a lorry this morning:

<--------------               -------------->
 Undertakers                      Overtakers

 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 02 July, 2010, 09:15:13 am
Stereotypical thug in a WV this morinng. Overtaking and then cutting in on me as we approached the back of a queue. Verbal fisticuffs ensued. Apparently cyclists should be 30cm off the kerb.

All too depressingly boring to relate. Stop SMIDSY entry duly completed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 July, 2010, 09:26:34 am
Had another good ride this morning.  I started with definite friday legs, and got up a bit of speed eventually.

Rode part of the way at the same pace as a very fast lass on a bike with pink bar tape and pink tyres.  But she was very fast.  At one point, I was doing 35kph, having pulled away from the lights, and she came sailing past me. 

Good ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 02 July, 2010, 09:34:54 am
smidsy!
But not me. Car pulled out from side road without looking, onto the A64 during rush hour  :facepalm:

When I reached it, after overtaking a mile-long queue, the front quarter of the car was spread across two lanes.
Stopped to talk to driver of other vehicle, no-one hurt.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hulver on 02 July, 2010, 09:37:19 am
Some bloke beeped me this morning while I was going around a narrow road with solid white lines. I slowed down and shouted at him "What the F##k are you beeping at!"

He overtook me when the road widened later and shouted out of the passenger window "I was beeping at a friend walking along the road"

:facepalm:

I need to recover my zen.  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 02 July, 2010, 09:40:43 am
^^^
 ;D I sometimes only open my mouth to change pedals ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 02 July, 2010, 09:44:32 am
Oops Hulver!   ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 02 July, 2010, 09:46:55 am
Pretty pleasant this morning.

As a result of the discussions elsewhere in the forum, I did start thinking more about traffic lights though.  There are some particular ones that seem to always1 be on red when I get there and others that are always1 green.

Not utterly surprising I suppose since I guess it's not impossible they're timed/synchronised with other lights that are influencing my arrival time at them. (Or are they not?)

The one that befuddles me most is the one on London Wall, under 125 London Wall (the tall building that straddles the road).  That's always1 green when I go through westbound in the morning and always1 red eastbound in the evening.

1. FSVO "always"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 02 July, 2010, 09:48:55 am
Quote from: hulver on 02 July, 2010, 09:37:19 am
Some bloke beeped me this morning while I was going around a narrow road with solid white lines. I slowed down and shouted at him "What the F##k are you beeping at!"

He overtook me when the road widened later and shouted out of the passenger window "I was beeping at a friend walking along the road"


 ;D ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: francisbarton on 02 July, 2010, 01:03:13 pm
I think I must be stressed, I lost my cool this morning at some poor motorist.  That's the second time in a month. need a chill pill.

Anyway, all that happened was I was bombing along on a slight downhill, approaching a T-shaped mini-roundabout here (http://maps.google.co.uk/?ie=UTF8&ll=51.808126,-2.23789&spn=0,0.001206&z=20&layer=c&cbll=51.808095,-2.237752&panoid=z0PEMnv7WeZi6p4F0ay7Xw&cbp=12,274.32,,0,3.2), feeling really pleased with my spinning and pace.

I'm wanting to go straight on (NW), and I have a clear view across the rbt and can see a car coming towards me (SE) indicating right.  His priority, and I can see that.  I've got a good 50 or more metres to go till the rbt, and if the guy had just carried on turning right into Haresfield Lane he would have been out of my way and I would have sailed through.

But no, he stops halfway round the roundabout, flashes me and kindly waits for me to ride past.  Of course once I see he's stopping on the rbt, I instinctively slow and hit the brakes, cos now I don't know where he's going or if he's really stopping or if he's suddenly going to go again.

Why do people do that?????

I confess I shouted at him "Just go! and get out of the way!" and I didn't catch his response, but I fear he may have felt that I was cross at him for joining the rbt, whereas I was just cross that he didn't just carry on and get out of the way.

Sorry for being an idiot, but I was so frustrated.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 02 July, 2010, 02:41:11 pm
On the train again - combo of hurty knee and feeling stressed as a result of hurty knee. Damn vicious circles >:(

Wished I was en velo, especially in the coolish air at 0600hrs when I left the house this morn.

 :'(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: dkahn400 on 02 July, 2010, 03:17:51 pm
Quote from: Francis on 02 July, 2010, 01:03:13 pm

Why do people do that?????


I think this is related to what I call LCSS or Last Car Stopping Syndrome. This is when you are waiting to cross a lane of traffic and the last car in a line stops and waves you across. It would be quicker and safer for all concerned if he were simply to continue but he inists on giving way to you. This can happen when you are in any mode: cyclist, pedestrian or motorist.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: francisbarton on 02 July, 2010, 05:20:09 pm
Quote from: dkahn400 on 02 July, 2010, 03:17:51 pm
I think this is related to what I call LCSS or Last Car Stopping Syndrome. This is when you are waiting to cross a lane of traffic and the last car in a line stops and waves you across. It would be quicker and safer for all concerned if he were simply to continue but he inists on giving way to you. This can happen when you are in any mode: cyclist, pedestrian or motorist.

Exactly.  Too helpful to be, y'know, helpful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 02 July, 2010, 05:48:39 pm
Quote from: dkahn400 on 02 July, 2010, 03:17:51 pm
Quote from: Francis on 02 July, 2010, 01:03:13 pm

Why do people do that?????


I think this is related to what I call LCSS or Last Car Stopping Syndrome. This is when you are waiting to cross a lane of traffic and the last car in a line stops and waves you across. It would be quicker and safer for all concerned if he were simply to continue but he inists on giving way to you. This can happen when you are in any mode: cyclist, pedestrian or motorist.


I sometimes get that.
I usualy slow down and eye them very suspiciously before I commit myself. Hopefully they'll learn that it's quicker all around if we all follow the HC.
The best ones are on my commute. I cycle along a cyclepath and where it crosses a side road to my right, I turn right to go down that side road. There are almost always cars parked on my right hand side, so cars coming out of the road that I want to go down are on the "wrong" side of the road. Sometimes they'll wait for me to cross the road, thinking that I want to continue along the cyclepath. I can't carry on the way I want to go, because they are blocking the way while they wait for me to go where they think I want to go. I then do a stand off with them and wait for them to go.
If that fails, I have just stood there, crossed my arms and nondded "no" as they jesticulate for me to go. Or I've just nodded and said a loud "no." They shrug and move on, unblocking my way, so that I can continue. ::-) ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 02 July, 2010, 11:38:30 pm
I took a long diversion up the Llynfi valley to Llangynwd.  I stopped briefly at the Old House to comfirm it as an audax control.  I started to follow the audax route but when I got to Llangienor decided I wanted my tea so dropped back down the valley.  As I approached Bridgend I made a wrong turning and ended up in the centre of Bridgend then back near work and did my usual commute home, which was never my plan. So today several roads I had never ridden, good.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 05 July, 2010, 09:35:20 am
I'm cruising towards a disaster- I must be. Ying and Yang and all that.

On my commute in this morning, every possible delay point was clear. No traffic approching from my right at roundabouts. No traffic on the major route at any Give Way/ Stop line I negotiated. Every single traffic light was either green or changed to green on my approach with no need for me to slow.

I'm scared now ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 July, 2010, 09:35:59 am
I had more green lights than usual, which took me rather by surprise.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 05 July, 2010, 09:47:11 am
Quote from: fuzzy on 05 July, 2010, 09:35:20 am
I'm cruising towards a disaster- I must be. Ying and Yang and all that.

On my commute in this morning, every possible delay point was clear. No traffic approching from my right at roundabouts. No traffic on the major route at any Give Way/ Stop line I negotiated. Every single traffic light was either green or changed to green on my approach with no need for me to slow.

I'm scared now ;D

Run to the bathroom and check in the mirror quickly.  You may have metamorphosed into Chuck Norris.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 05 July, 2010, 12:29:57 pm
Quote from: clarion on 05 July, 2010, 09:35:59 am
I had more green lights than usual, which took me rather by surprise.

Are you using a different tinted sun glasses?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 05 July, 2010, 08:31:07 pm
Most of the ride home was as normal, but close to home I turn left on a right hand bend. As I signalled there was a wobble, back of my left ankle hit the pannier (usually well clear), some more wobbling and a rather quick stop. Pannier was loose but not off and mudguard had come off its stays (which is designed to happen), bending one in the process. A bit of a breather, pushed up the next rise as all that happened at a point where I'd normally be going down quite a lot of gears and then rode on without bother. Not sure what happened there, but I think my ageing panniers' rather poor fixings mean it is time they were retired.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 05 July, 2010, 08:35:46 pm
Urgh.  Today I was visited not by the P******* Fairy but by the P******* Arabian Princess!  Said Princess was wobbling along a main road on a bike she clearly couldn't control properly.  I began to slow as I came round the corner and saw her but she lurched dramatically to the right without ever looking behind her and my front wheel banged into her front hub.  She was damn lucky I hit her and not the car behind me (who had slowed behind me), but she seemed determined to kill herself, wobbling right into the far lane in front of another car, which, mercifully, had also decelerated as the driver saw the collision.

In retrospect, "Jesus F*cking Christ!" may not have been the most sensitive thing to shout in the presence of a frightened Muslim girl, but I think she was more upset by the mocking laughter of her sister (or some other close female relative - was too cutting not to be a family member).

That left me fishing out the repair kit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: dkahn400 on 05 July, 2010, 09:16:23 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 05 July, 2010, 08:35:46 pm

In retrospect, "Jesus F*cking Christ!" may not have been the most sensitive thing to shout in the presence of a frightened Muslim girl, but I think she was more upset by the mocking laughter of her sister (or some other close female relative - was too cutting not to be a family member).


That's a pity. Asian women are under-represented in cycling and they need encouragement rather than blasphemous cursing by the infidel. Still it's an entirely understandable reaction and I suppose being shouted at is generally less discouraging than being run over.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 05 July, 2010, 09:42:35 pm
Aye, well, if she recovers her confidence then she also needs to find a way of arranging her headscarf that protects her modesty while not shortening her life expectancy.  I'm sure it's possible ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 05 July, 2010, 09:49:53 pm
For the last week I have been going through Rogerzilla Country.  I am working at Swindon on secondment so will pass through his village at least 3 times per week.  I have changed my daily climbing from 1619 ft to 2947 ft due to a traffic friendly route around Marlborough.  I even get a bit of culture as the last part of the journey is along a very straight Roman Road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 05 July, 2010, 10:45:14 pm
I thought I was going really well today, had a stonkin ride in without it feeling like much of an effort. Congratulated myself on the obviously much needed rest of a weekend without any two wheeled action.

Then on the way home I felt the East Anglian Hairdryer in my face. That'd be why then. ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 05 July, 2010, 11:04:44 pm
Quote from: boab on 05 July, 2010, 10:45:14 pm
Then on the way home I felt the East Anglian Hairdryer in my face. That'd be why then. ::-)

It's those bloody wind farms. They've got those fans everywhere in East Anglia. All plugged into the National Grid and they switch them on to give us cyclists a headwind. Gits... >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Clandy on 05 July, 2010, 11:06:11 pm
Quote from: boab on 05 July, 2010, 10:45:14 pm
I thought I was going really well today, had a stonkin ride in without it feeling like much of an effort. Congratulated myself on the obviously much needed rest of a weekend without any two wheeled action.

Then on the way home I felt the East Anglian Hairdryer in my face. That'd be why then. ::-)

I live in a relatively flat area, so I just consider the wind my hills.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 06 July, 2010, 09:35:15 am
This morning's commute was significantly enhanced by the splendid sight of a cyclist on Waterloo Bridge wearing an exceptionally stylish long dress in KOTM material.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 06 July, 2010, 09:37:42 am
Quote from: Grub on 05 July, 2010, 09:49:53 pm
For the last week I have been going through Rogerzilla Country.  I am working at Swindon on secondment so will pass through his village at least 3 times per week.  I have changed my daily climbing from 1619 ft to 2947 ft due to a traffic friendly route around Marlborough.  I even get a bit of culture as the last part of the journey is along a very straight Roman Road.

Not the A346 Marlborough Road :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 July, 2010, 09:47:58 am
I had a last minute change of plan for my commute.  I had an odd noise coming from the new chain on my Orbit (possibly as a result of the bent mech after the cabbie threw my bike).  I didn't have time to investigate, so I went back in the house & swapped for my Carlton.

I rode to work fixed for the first time in several months this morning, spinning a 65" gear.  The rises en route weren't an issue, and I couldn't keep up with the fast lads, but my speed was OK - within my usual range - and the overall 'feel' was relaxed.

Biiig queues of traffic, particularly at Mitcham, Tooting, Clapham Common and Oval.  Huzzah for bus lanes!


Oh - and I wore my new blue yacf jersey :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: dkahn400 on 06 July, 2010, 11:18:11 am
Quote from: teethgrinder on 05 July, 2010, 11:04:44 pm
Quote from: boab on 05 July, 2010, 10:45:14 pm
Then on the way home I felt the East Anglian Hairdryer in my face. That'd be why then. ::-)

It's those bloody wind farms. They've got those fans everywhere in East Anglia. All plugged into the National Grid and they switch them on to give us cyclists a headwind. Gits... >:(

Wind farms. Deliberately cultivating fields of wind - it's madness.

I've noticed that wind can also be caused by trees vigorously waving their arms about.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 06 July, 2010, 12:04:33 pm
I was doing one of my "training" commutes today

It's a pity that the batteries ran out on the Lidl Altimeter/stopwatch/mile counter as I was going quite well
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 06 July, 2010, 12:30:55 pm
Hampton Court Palace Flower Show.

This generally heralds massive queues all the way back to the M3 and thunderstorms. No sign of either as yet, but as I'm getting away at a reasonable hour this evening I am looking forward to gliding effortlessly past a combined value of 'carage' in the millions.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 06 July, 2010, 06:37:42 pm
I had a rear tyre p*nct*r* on a little country lane tonight, about two miles from where my car was parked.
I decided to walk instead of fixing it.

A builder in a white van came along - going the opposite way from me - and within a moment the guy had swung round, put my bike in the back, shifted a box of carrots off the front seat -  and drove me up to the car!

I've never met him and never seen him before, but he cycles a bit.

 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 06 July, 2010, 07:44:02 pm
Woot!  38 minutes home on the fixie.  That's nearly caught up with my geared best :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 06 July, 2010, 08:32:20 pm
Quote from: fuzzy on 06 July, 2010, 09:37:42 am
Quote from: Grub on 05 July, 2010, 09:49:53 pm
For the last week I have been going through Rogerzilla Country.  I am working at Swindon on secondment so will pass through his village at least 3 times per week.  I have changed my daily climbing from 1619 ft to 2947 ft due to a traffic friendly route around Marlborough.  I even get a bit of culture as the last part of the journey is along a very straight Roman Road.

Not the A346 Marlborough Road :o

Hell no mate.  That would be silly.  I don't fancy dieing just yet.
No, from home to Marlborough up Oare Hill then out through Axford to Aldbourne and over Foxhill into the Toys'R'Us roundabout and then just along to Swindon HQ. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 07 July, 2010, 09:37:20 am
On the way back from the school run Mr. Reynard was in the old couthouse driveway...morte,without an apparent mark on him.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 July, 2010, 11:43:37 am
It was an odd but pleasant ride this morning.

I hardly ever see other cyclists near home, and almost never on ss, but I saw one rider on fixed yesterday, and another this morning.  He was on a Condor which sported an MTB rear 'guard and made an alarming noise, and wore Rapha Condor shorts.  I think he was a bit pissed off that the old bike kept with him to London Road (where I stayed behind a removals lorry).  Later, there were some other riders I don't often see, including a gym-toned woman with a hypertan and short shorts riding an orange/yellow fade Bianchi.  She was quite fast, but I caught her before she turned off through a red light.

I went rather fast today, getting away from the lights quickly.  I need to smooth out my pedalling to stop bounce at higher speeds, but it went well.

The edge was taken off my pride when I got to work & realised that I had forgotten my (heavy) lock. :(

And my phone. :(

And the shower gel Butterfly had bought for me yesterday... :(

Be rayt...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 07 July, 2010, 11:51:48 am
Was humbled on London Wall by a fast chap on a road bike (too quick to identify, he did have a bright yellow backpack which looked like an Ortlieb or Ortlieb-like roll top affair).  I was stopped, waiting at the pedestrian crossing lights near Moorgate.  He arrived at the point of them changing so managed to get a rolling start.  I decided to give chase, but couldn't catch him for toffee.

I finally got up to about the same speed as him, but quite a way back, and anyway he was by this point limited by the taxi he'd tucked into the tow of.  I think it was slowing him down.  Given his acceleration from the lights, I reckon he'd have been miles away if the road had been completely clear.

Fun though :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 07 July, 2010, 12:18:25 pm
This morning the commute was very very humid. So humid that water rolled down my sunglasses. I arrived at work in wet clothing.  Could this humidity be the old fashioned meteorological phenomenon called rain, but I do not believe that happens anymore.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 07 July, 2010, 12:24:43 pm
After yesterday's horrible, horrible commute (90 minutes on 3 trains each way to get to my new office in London), today I settled into what will hopefully be my more usual "virtual commute" - a bit over ten miles, the first half riding with my lad to his school, then a scenic loop back home to start work.

Hopefully going into the office won't be regular (not going in for at least another couple of weeks), but at least my new colleagues are happy for me to prop the bike up in a corner of the room. There's no proper bike parking - it's in a Regus serviced building near Olympia. Regus suggested using the on-road sheffield stand, which I'm not happy with, next time I'm there I'll see if they object to me taking it upstairs. 35 miles each way on the bike is infinitely preferable to taking those commuter trains again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 07 July, 2010, 12:29:30 pm
The highlight of my ride to work at present is the big downhill from Wanborough Herb Farm and into the village on some lovely smooth new road.  I am easily pushing 40+ mph in this small blast.  There is an added adrenaline rush as it crosses a busy crossroad and there are often cars that approach.  I rely upon my wits and my Exposure Joystick to let them know of my approach as I have the right of way.
I am covering the brakes though.
There is also a section of light to dark due to heavy tree cover so that hits the adrenal glands too.

So today I was totally disappointed to notice a horse and rider at the base of the my run so I had to seriously brake and come to a standstill right when I should have been shooting out the bottom of the ramp in a tuck position making the most of it.

Gutted.  :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 07 July, 2010, 01:24:22 pm
Quote from: Oaky on 07 July, 2010, 11:51:48 am
Was humbled on London Wall by a fast chap on a road bike

OK, I confess I went through the nah, couldn't have been me stage before I re-read it to find you didn't say "by a fat chap on a road bike"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 08 July, 2010, 09:20:16 am
Dear World,

If you wish to be rid of me because I'm cycling then you're going to have to try much harder.
 
May post more later, in the appropriate thread.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 July, 2010, 10:44:55 am
You know they can't stop you.  Keep at it.

My ride in was wonderfully uneventful :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 08 July, 2010, 11:04:00 am
A Ride full of Grrrr.

First car I saw turned right out of a side-road-on-my-left; phone clamped to ear of driver.  It's 7am, and you're coming out of a residential street - why couldn't you have made your call from home, madam?

Turned right in a bus/bike lane.  Closely followed by a blue car.  Which bit of BUS LANE do you not get?

Delivery of lorry-load of ZEN required.  Must re-fit helmet-cam.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 July, 2010, 11:44:58 am
I took the opportunity this morning to chat to the electric bike rider.  Pleasant chap.  Still don't know his name ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wascally Weasel on 08 July, 2010, 11:53:21 am
Nice fast ride in enjoying the shortlived post-event legboost.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 08 July, 2010, 12:07:35 pm
On my commute today I had to drive.

Yech.

Oh, and out of interest I was looking at hi-viz. It makes a REALLY big difference noticing bikes in wing mirrors, especially on the nearside.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 08 July, 2010, 12:13:06 pm
Due to a surfit of beer last night I walked in, didn't feel I would be safe on the bike,nor in the car....

Took me 30 minutes, it was lovely
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 08 July, 2010, 12:14:01 pm
Going through my village, and a car is parked on the opposite side of the road. I hear the noise of a car coming from behind, and think "he's not going to squeeze through, is he?". Sure enough, he comes crawling by with maybe a 5 mph difference in speed (it's a 20mph limit at the mo' due to resurfacing, and GPS says I was doing 17.5mph), and no space between us. I gave his window a tap as he went past. A minute up the road, I see him parking his car, so I pull in.

ME - Hello (noticing he's in his 60's with a hearing aid)
DRIVER - Hello
ME - You passed me in the village back there
DRIVER - Did I?
ME - Yes, you squeezed past me when a car was parked opposite. There wasn't enough room. Can you see my finger marks on the window
DRIVER - (turns and looks) You must have been in the middle of the road.
ME - That's an interesting response. You see, I am the father of two small children. I don't have metal to protect me, and if you break my legs, it's going to be very inconvenient. What's more, it's you trying to overtake me, so it'll be your fault. Please will you think about that.
DRIVER - I am sorry, I will. I am sorry.

And I left it at that. I thought that went pretty well. Or he'll have forgotten it a minute later. I felt better, anyway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 08 July, 2010, 12:24:15 pm
Quote from: Grub on 06 July, 2010, 08:32:20 pm
Quote from: fuzzy on 06 July, 2010, 09:37:42 am
Quote from: Grub on 05 July, 2010, 09:49:53 pm
For the last week I have been going through Rogerzilla Country.  I am working at Swindon on secondment so will pass through his village at least 3 times per week.  I have changed my daily climbing from 1619 ft to 2947 ft due to a traffic friendly route around Marlborough.  I even get a bit of culture as the last part of the journey is along a very straight Roman Road.

Not the A346 Marlborough Road :o

Hell no mate.  That would be silly.  I don't fancy dieing just yet.
No, from home to Marlborough up Oare Hill then out through Axford to Aldbourne and over Foxhill into the Toys'R'Us roundabout and then just along to Swindon HQ. 

Thank Gods for that!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 08 July, 2010, 12:28:51 pm
I had a lovely ride in. Warm enough for sleeveless and sandals even at 6.30, gentle breeze, wiggle round a toad crossing the road, some real deer (as opposed to the fake ones we call rat-deer) a jay walking in the verge, cherries ripe enough to consider picking, not a single car for the last 8 miles. People pay for this kind of idyllic stuff.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 July, 2010, 01:02:58 pm
Last night, on my way home, I saw a van from GSF.  The driver happens to live in my area.  As I passed him, I noticed he was smoking and using a handheld mobile.  I stopped.

'Put the phone down please'
'Wha?'
'You know that's illegal, don't you?'
'What?'

Here we go, I thought

'Using your mobile while driving.  And smoking.  You haven't really got proper control of your vehicle, have you?'
'Um...well'
'And you've got your boss's details on the side of your van.  It's not a good advert.'
*silence*
'OK.  Now put the phone down'
Indicating the phone in his lap, 'I have put it down'
'No.  Put it on the passenger seat, so I can tell you won't be distracted.  Good lad.  Now I don't have to report it to the Police.'

I rode off.  But I expected him to have picked up the phone straight away and said, 'Yeah, some tw@ of a cyclist givin it all that...' etc.

When the road cleared a bit, he drove past, overtaking carefully.  And I caught him again near the Ponds, where an unusual lack of traffic meant I was only able to confirm he was neither smoking nor using his phone.  I wanted to congratulate him, but he seemed keen to be away from me, and maybe felt quite paranoid as we made a few turns together. 

When I passed his house, he'd parked up & gone inside.

I kept my word.  I didn't call the Police.  But I did call his manager to let him know.  I mentioned that he'd complied, but I thought the company should be aware.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 08 July, 2010, 02:47:42 pm
You rock, Clarion!!!!   ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 July, 2010, 02:50:24 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 08 July, 2010, 02:47:42 pm
You rock, Clarion!!!!   ;D

That's only cause my gear is a bit low.  I need to improve my spinning ;D




Sometimes I wish I had a camera.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 08 July, 2010, 02:53:42 pm
You can get one for £40 from Maplins mate.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 08 July, 2010, 10:42:06 pm
Cycling home from Soho Square Gardens, stopped at the bottom of Charing Cross Road, beside a Taxi.

Taxi driver: "Hey, mate?"
Me: "Yes?"
Driver: "Do those pedals clip in on both sides?"

So not what I expected :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 08 July, 2010, 11:51:35 pm
For the second night running, lots of lights being reflected off of Battersea Power Station.

I've got no idea what they were for, whether it was advertising something, or related to filming possibly (it's been used in various films and dramas).

There seemed to be red and blue fixed lights on the ends of the building, and sort of mottled white lights being shone at the chimneys.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 09 July, 2010, 08:27:46 am
Nothing to report from my end.













I'll leave it at that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 09 July, 2010, 09:06:17 am
Puzzled by new "jingling" noise.... eventually twigged that it was the zipper on my jersey.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 July, 2010, 09:30:23 am
Fantastic commute today.  I expected to be slow, because of a combination of tired & achy legs after a week of fixed and 65km yesterday.  And because I had eschewed the thirty year old bike for a forty year old one! :thumbsup:

Yes, I was riding the Galaxy, with it's balloon-like 32s, comfy position and vague centrepull brakes.  But I pretty much flew in.  OK, so there was a slight tail(cross)wind, but everyone should have been benefiting from that.

The traffic was weird, with long quietish stretches punctuated by cartoonishly overextended queues of motor vehicles.  And I just kept going onward, managing a respectable 24.1kph average.  I'm happy with that :)

En route, I saw a parent from TGL's club zoom past in the club jersey, riding his bright yellow Coppi.  I've never seen him on a bike, and you'd not imagine him so speedy.  Wish he hadn't passed me on the wrong side at a junction, but he wasn't there long ;D

Further on, a jolly chap in a yellow jersey and riding a red Trek addressed me.  It seemed like he might know who I am, or he may have been commenting on the Galaxy.  I didn't catch a single word he said, but I think he was impressed with my acceleration from the lights.  He turned off shortly after.  I wish he'd been a bit closer/clearer or introduced himself.  It could be a forum member, as I was sporting my new blue jersey today.  Whatever, his smile and upbeat attitude matched the sunshine and the speed :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 09 July, 2010, 12:17:41 pm
I had a great commute in today - right up to the point where the Madison threw its chain as I accelerated away from the lights.  Thankfully, I'd made it across the Fulham Road at that point.  Only took a minute to fix and I had quite a pleasant commute from then on, as well.

It's the damn chainline.  Need a new BB.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 09 July, 2010, 04:26:45 pm
When a chap at least twenty years your junior, riding a road bike, overtakes you on your mountain bike, trying to catch him is folly. But it does make for an exhilerating start to the day!
S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jaded on 09 July, 2010, 04:58:14 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 08 July, 2010, 10:42:06 pm
Taxi driver: "Hey, mate?"
Me: "Yes?"
Driver: "Do those pedals clip in on both sides?"

Nah, just the left side.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 09 July, 2010, 05:05:53 pm
Quote from: Jaded on 09 July, 2010, 04:58:14 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 08 July, 2010, 10:42:06 pm
Taxi driver: "Hey, mate?"
Me: "Yes?"
Driver: "Do those pedals clip in on both sides?"

Nah, just the left side.  ;D

Laugh you may, but I know someone who has been having trouble with her SPDs, but only on one side (don't recall which).  She has swapped back to her old pedal on that side only.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ktcita on 09 July, 2010, 07:43:02 pm
Learned today I had been taking an "illegal" route along Bloomsbury Way just after Theobald's Road. Apparently that little section (before New Oxford Street going towards Oxford Circus) is for buses only. A very "helpful" taxi driver informed me of this by beeping his horn then abusing me for using a bus lane when I was a cyclist. I informed said "helpful" taxi driver that perhaps rather than worrying about me he should worry about his own driving and chill out.

Funny thing is that I have been riding along this road for well over a month now and am always accompanied by at least 10 other cyclists. Did anyone else know that this road was not legal for cyclists to ride on?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ScumOfTheRoad on 09 July, 2010, 08:03:54 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 09 July, 2010, 12:17:41 pm
I had a great commute in today - right up to the point where the Madison threw its chain as I accelerated away from the lights. 

Bruce! It really is you. I'm surprised you are not the master of the Ctrl-Alt-Del board.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 09 July, 2010, 08:20:44 pm
I've had decent rides for the last couple of days, aside from the heat, but I am so fed up with RLJers. On my SW London / Putney / King's Road spin, I doubt if I see more than two or three people a day who willingly stop at a red light. I'm fairly sure there are a lot of people out there who simply do not think the red lights apply to cycliss.

This week I saw an man + dog nearly wiped out by a female roadie going very fast across a ped crossing at red on Lr Richmond Rd. The lights had changed to red for some time, there was an obvious queue of traffic + me + one other cyclist (amazingly) facing her as she approached on the other side of the road. By a fluke of timing, an unseen force held the guy back for a moment thus saving the front half of his dog.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 10 July, 2010, 10:35:05 am
Quote from: ScumOfTheRoad on 09 July, 2010, 08:03:54 pm
Bruce! It really is you. I'm surprised you are not the master of the Ctrl-Alt-Del board.

This is so not where I come to talk about work, John ;)

On the subject of RLJers, I saw one get his come-uppance Oxford Street on Thursday.  He nipped past me, through the lights and up to the corner, just waiting for his chance to nip through the crossing traffic; a double decker chose that moment to turn left, nearly crushing him against a lamppost - he had to scrabble backwards for his life.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 10 July, 2010, 01:33:05 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 10 July, 2010, 10:35:05 am
Quote from: ScumOfTheRoad on 09 July, 2010, 08:03:54 pm
Bruce! It really is you. I'm surprised you are not the master of the Ctrl-Alt-Del board.

This is so not where I come to talk about work, John ;)

On the subject of RLJers, I saw one get his come-uppance Oxford Street on Thursday.  He nipped past me, through the lights and up to the corner, just waiting for his chance to nip through the crossing traffic; a double decker chose that moment to turn left, nearly crushing him against a lamppost - he had to scrabble backwards for his life.

I'll have a small side bet that in his version of the story it will be the bus that wa sin the wrong and almost got him.....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 July, 2010, 10:24:24 am
Rode in a bit early today on the Dawes.  The roads were pretty clear, so I got through quite well.  I managed an average of 25kph, which I think is excellent on an old tourer! :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 12 July, 2010, 10:38:50 am
First day riding for a week so it chose to try to rain...


Then they closed the M3 (parallel to my route) which cost me about 4 minutes over my normal time due to not maintaining full speed down the hills past stationary traffic.

Matthew
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 12 July, 2010, 10:55:18 am
I have a meeting to go to by train tonight so I rode in on the Dahon. It was a very pleasant ride and surprisingly fast.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 12 July, 2010, 11:02:17 am
Was planning a longer ride in this morning but woke to discover that, quite unexpectedly, it had been raining heavily overnight. Not that this in itself would have stopped me, but I'd taken the mudguards off my fixie last week (didn't have time to carry out some necessary fettling), and hadn't got round to refitting them.  :facepalm:

So instead of a long ride, I did some pre-breakfast mudguard fettling (so at least the fixie is ready for a proper ride tomorrow, whatever the weather), then took a relatively gentle pootle down the lanesy route to the station on the Brommie instead. Which was most enjoyable - love the way the smells of summer are heightened by a splash of rain.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 July, 2010, 11:31:39 am
Quote from: Butterfly on 12 July, 2010, 10:55:18 am
I have a meeting to go to by train tonight so I rode in on the Dahon. It was a very pleasant ride and surprisingly fast.

Cool. :-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Naggers on 12 July, 2010, 11:33:37 am
On Late shift today so not been up long.
I'm thinking of phoning work to say I can't leave the house because there is some weird wet stuff falling from the sky  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 12 July, 2010, 06:14:50 pm
Whooooooeeeeeeeee!  First commuting day since I replaced the BB and fixed the chainline.  Amazing difference!  Just the sweetest ride!  When I reached the top of Battersea Bridge, I just kicked off and it felt as if I didn't stop accelerating till I hit Camberwell.  Almost perfect.  Now I just have to do something about the cheap handlebars...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 12 July, 2010, 07:08:48 pm
Had a relaxing ride into work with my new cleat set up.  Just letting my knees find their place again.

On the way home at the 15 mile mark I passed two cyclists stationary on the opposite side of the quiet back road.  They were an odd couple - one x small roadie and one x foreign touring MTB'er.

As is my custom I asked if they were okay as I passed - only to be surprised by a foreign ( German or Dutch ) voice enquiring whether I had a pump.

So I stopped and assisted.  Touring Cyclist had no pump but did have C02 that he did not like as it failed.  Small roadie had pump that was cable tied to his frame.  He prefers running so does not cycle much.  Once he got it off his frame I showed him how to change the end from Presta to Schradder and then Mr Dutch pumped up his wheel. 

That is my Good Samaritan dead for the day  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 12 July, 2010, 07:27:59 pm
Quote from: Grub on 12 July, 2010, 07:08:48 pm

That is my Good Samaritan dead for the day  :thumbsup:

Killed him with kindness?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 12 July, 2010, 07:45:23 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 12 July, 2010, 07:27:59 pm
Quote from: Grub on 12 July, 2010, 07:08:48 pm

That is my Good Samaritan dead for the day  :thumbsup:

Killed him with kindness?

No, I don't bring my Taser home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 July, 2010, 08:34:48 pm
It feels good to help. :)

Bored of CS7, I had a good ride home over the Col de St Reatham.  Brixton was nice.  Even Norbury was OK.  The road was wonderful. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: darkpoint on 12 July, 2010, 09:58:28 pm
oddly connected ride home this evening, I was later out of work than I was expecting, but not in a hurry.  while at the lights at elephant and castle I spotted a friend from work.. so I rode along with him for a chat, this took me off my normal route home.. as we parted I remembered another friend who lived not far from there, I war making a mental note that I must email her, when I looked across the junction to see her..  so I stopped for a chat.
that changed my route home again, which was when I saw a lass walking her bike along the pavement.. so I called out to find out if she was ok.. she had a flat, so I stopped for a chat, and swapped her inner tube for one of my spares.. as that saved her a long walk home..

so three chance meetings on the same ride home.. where I was in the right place at the right time..
I think that sets a record for my best commute home yet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 13 July, 2010, 07:23:20 am
Last night; three, three!, other cyclists. Blimey.

This morning; first 10 miles completely traffic free with bonus tail wind. 

Hullo birds, hullo sky...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 13 July, 2010, 08:21:17 am
darkpoint, did you get #3's phone number? That would have been a truly successful ride.  ;)

Highlight of my ride this morning was riding past a strawberry field. The overnight rain meant the morning air was heavy with the fragrant scent of ripe strawberries. Heavenly!

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 13 July, 2010, 08:30:07 am
Felt good this morning (plus it was only the short 10 mile run) so spinning fairly fast. At a traffic light, a guy probably 20 years my junior - not hard - pulls up on another Marin a little more basic than mine: "nice bike" Me:"Thanks, same family as yours" Him (huff) "Yes" (puff) that (wheeze) was (huff) why (puff) I (wheeze) had (huff) to (puff) catch (wheeze) up (huff) with (puff) you (wheeze)
 ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today...
Post by: groucho on 13 July, 2010, 09:33:25 am
... it rained. I had forgotten how wet one can get.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 13 July, 2010, 09:37:31 am
I am annoyed it was damp, drizzle and weather bloke on telly said it was getting worse.  Ride five miles in my rain coat and realise the road and sky is dry.  I hate using my raincoat when I don't need to. Sticky.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 July, 2010, 10:24:05 am
Only rode about 5km this morning :(

Took both the train and the Northern Line :(

All in a good cause, though (n+1) :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 13 July, 2010, 10:35:47 am
Quote from: clarion on 13 July, 2010, 10:24:05 am
the Northern Line

 :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 13 July, 2010, 10:37:46 am
Bumped into Lord Ashdown this morning  :) I am working at a library in Kennington today and there are an array of past and present MP's living around here!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mobbsy on 13 July, 2010, 11:47:59 am
Sun shining, traffic light traffic lights all stayed on, or turned to, green.  :thumbsup:
Looks like I'm in for a drenching on the way home though.  :'(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Access Legal Guy on 13 July, 2010, 11:52:31 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 13 July, 2010, 10:37:46 am
Bumped into Lord Ashdown this morning  :) I am working at a library in Kennington today and there are an array of past and present MP's living around here!

Poor chap - hope he's ok!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 13 July, 2010, 12:05:12 pm
Quote from: Access Legal guy on 13 July, 2010, 11:52:31 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 13 July, 2010, 10:37:46 am
Bumped into Lord Ashdown this morning  :) I am working at a library in Kennington today and there are an array of past and present MP's living around here!

Poor chap - hope he's ok!

 ;D ;D I tried to wear a blase face (one does in London you know), but I have some respect for the man so I gave him my 'oh hullo its you' face.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 13 July, 2010, 12:11:25 pm
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 13 July, 2010, 09:37:31 am
I am annoyed it was damp, drizzle and weather bloke on telly said it was getting worse.  Ride five miles in my rain coat and realise the road and sky is dry.  I hate using my raincoat when I don't need to. Sticky.


I did the opposite on my virtual commute. Left home with my son as it was spitting with rain - so we didn't bother with jackets. By the time we got to his school it was that horrible fine rain that soaks you. Got home absolutely drenched.
But at least it was warm out, so I didn't get cold.

On the approach to school, my son said "Should have taken the bus today".
"Really?" I asked.
"No" he said, with a huge grin  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RJ on 13 July, 2010, 05:46:24 pm
I parted company with a SRAM speedlink to hold together an unknown commuter's broken Shimano chain  O:-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 14 July, 2010, 09:12:59 am
Well, bu&&er me, I got run off the road by a bus. Not knocked over, I hit the brakes and ducked left just in time.

It was one of those damn bendy buses in york. Started overtaking me, then pulled in on top of me. Just before a red light  :facepalm:

Lost my zen and punched the bus, then went and remonstrated with the driver. Who shouted that I should have been on the cyclepath (lane marked on pavement). I pointed out that he was stopped at an ASL - unfortunately the lights changed and he drove off before I could get details. Should have had my mobile in the pouch so I could have photographed back of the bus and the driver.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 14 July, 2010, 09:18:59 am
which road and what time?  We can work out the service number, and report it to First.  They have CCTV on all the purple ones, when it is working, including external cameras and I think on the ordinary silver ones too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 14 July, 2010, 09:29:46 am
A number 3 Silver one, on The Mount at the Dalton Terrace traffic lights. About 7:30am.

I might write a generic letter to First, as the driver's attitude half indicated that he'd pulled in on me deliberately.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 14 July, 2010, 09:39:37 am
If you have service number, place and time they should be ale to find out who the driver is.  I wouldn't use their online form for feedback - they never seem to respond to  stuff on that whether it's positive or negative.  I've phoned in a complaint before, and followed up by email. 

(And even I never use the cycle path there either, it's utterly stupid!)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 14 July, 2010, 09:42:35 am
Bit of a green wave today.

Went through 10 consecutive traffic lights which were either on green or changed to green just as I approached.  This included the first two which are nearly always (#1) or ALWAYS (#2) on red when I approach them.

The first one that stopped me was Holborn Circus and even that had changed to green while I approached, but by the time the traffic queue in front had started moving it'd gone red again.

That one can be a bit of a bugger for filtering, with a bus stop just before the lights and lots of lane changing by motor traffic - there's a feeder lane on the left fro the ASL, but I often don't use it unless I can see I'm going to get to the front, or it looks like I'll be able to dink right out of the lane into a gap if it starts moving.  I didn't fancy pushing it just to get an 11th green.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 14 July, 2010, 09:44:25 am
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 14 July, 2010, 09:39:37 am
(And even I never use the cycle path there either, it's utterly stupid!)
It's for the school kids going to All Saints upper site - means the ones coming from dringhouses way have a continuous off-road path all the way to the school.  Hence the daft-looking short bit ending near Dalton Terrace.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 14 July, 2010, 10:11:00 am
I had an enjoyable ride.  First proper commute on the n+1.  Even with a fairly big gear (and not fixed), I managed to get away from the lights fastest :thumbsup:

Respect to the riders of the Anquetil fixed and Lemond Fillmore ss, both of whom saw me as a target, and chased to the best of their ability, but rolled up well behind me to the junction where they both DQ'd by RLJing. :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 14 July, 2010, 10:56:49 am
Quote from: Oaky on 14 July, 2010, 09:42:35 am
Bit of a green wave today.

Same here - the lights were green when I arrived at the only set on my 26km morning route.  :smug:

On the other hand, I did have to stop for 30 seconds at the level crossing, which is a rarity as I know the train times and I normally time leaving the house to miss it.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 14 July, 2010, 12:54:43 pm
Takes a bit to rile me, but on the way through Stratford High St roadworks, where I take the lane and ride with traffic, knobhead decides I shouldn't be there, hoots and barges past very close, revving, to stop at the red light halted traffic three car length ahead. That really deserved a "What the *&&&%*".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 14 July, 2010, 01:28:00 pm
I'm back in Swindon today so I had that lovely thrill of riding down into Roger's village.  For all the journeys prior to today I have had my computer display showing HR value.

Today I had it on time for a change and this shows my actual speed as well.

As I entered the 30 mph zone I was already doing 33.7.   ;D

By the time I got to the bottom of the hill I was doing 41+  ;D

Wanton and furious cycling ?  The villagers will be after me at this rate  ;D ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 14 July, 2010, 01:46:24 pm
Quote from: Grub on 14 July, 2010, 01:28:00 pm
I'm back in Swindon today so I had that lovely thrill of riding down into Roger's village.  For all the journeys prior to today I have had my computer display showing HR value.

Today I had it on time for a change and this shows my actual speed as well.

As I entered the 30 mph zone I was already doing 33.7.   ;D

By the time I got to the bottom of the hill I was doing 41+  ;D

Wanton and furious cycling ?  The villagers will be after me at this rate  ;D ;D

It can be fun straying from the straight and narrow can't it?

 :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 14 July, 2010, 01:49:09 pm
Quote from: Grub on 14 July, 2010, 01:28:00 pm
I had that lovely thrill of riding down into Roger's village.

Fnarr.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 14 July, 2010, 05:22:34 pm
Quote from: fuzzy on 14 July, 2010, 01:46:24 pm
It can be fun straying from the straight and narrow can't it?

Still legal though (most speed limits only applying to motor vehicles, which I'm sure you know).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 14 July, 2010, 07:35:59 pm
Quote from: darkpoint on 12 July, 2010, 09:58:28 pm
...
that changed my route home again, which was when I saw a lass walking her bike along the pavement.. so I called out to find out if she was ok.. she had a flat, so I stopped for a chat, and swapped her inner tube for one of my spares.. as that saved her a long walk home..
...
I think that sets a record for my best commute home yet.

I'm guessing this relates to the above :)

Knight in shining lycra (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=35644.0)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 14 July, 2010, 07:39:34 pm
On the way home as I neared the end of the stage commute I did a Cadel and cracked.  ;D  Nothing left in my legs  ;D

A few moments before when coming down Oare Hill on the A345 I did the trick when you put your balls on the top tube and hunker down.  I only held it for a short while as the speed increase was huge and I felt very very low.  I was worried about getting back up again as I was on a compact and my back pockets were quite full.  T'was fun while it lasted.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 14 July, 2010, 07:45:41 pm
Quote from: Grub on 14 July, 2010, 07:39:34 pm
On the way home as I neared the end of the stage commute I did a Cadel and cracked.  ;D  Nothing left in my legs  ;D

Meh. Aussies. No stamina. ;)

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 14 July, 2010, 09:50:45 pm
Quote from: Grub on 14 July, 2010, 07:39:34 pm
A few moments before when coming down Oare Hill on the A345 I did the trick when you put your balls on the top tube and hunker down.  I only held it for a short while as the speed increase was huge and I felt very very low.  I was worried about getting back up again as I was on a compact and my back pockets were quite full.  T'was fun while it lasted.

You have to be carefull getting back on the saddle again.
What can happen is that your shorts get caught on the nose of the saddle as you get back up.
It's even better worse if you set off a speed camera with your shorts at half mast.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 14 July, 2010, 10:02:57 pm
Quote from: teethgrinder on 14 July, 2010, 09:50:45 pm
Quote from: Grub on 14 July, 2010, 07:39:34 pm
A few moments before when coming down Oare Hill on the A345 I did the trick when you put your balls on the top tube and hunker down.  I only held it for a short while as the speed increase was huge and I felt very very low.  I was worried about getting back up again as I was on a compact and my back pockets were quite full.  T'was fun while it lasted.

You have to be carefull getting back on the saddle again.
What can happen is that your shorts get caught on the nose of the saddle as you get back up.
It's even better worse if you set off a speed camera with your shorts at half mast.

Yep, that is what nearly happened and I was nowhere near max speed.  I nearly filled the shorts as well at this time  ;D  It didn't help that my back pocket in the middle was also holding my packed lite Goretex jacket.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Torslanda on 14 July, 2010, 11:38:00 pm
Quote from: darkpoint on 12 July, 2010, 09:58:28 pm
oddly connected ride home this evening, I was later out of work than I was expecting, but not in a hurry.  while at the lights at elephant and castle I spotted a friend from work.. so I rode along with him for a chat, this took me off my normal route home.. as we parted I remembered another friend who lived not far from there, I war making a mental note that I must email her, when I looked across the junction to see her..  so I stopped for a chat.
that changed my route home again, which was when I saw a lass walking her bike along the pavement.. so I called out to find out if she was ok.. she had a flat, so I stopped for a chat, and swapped her inner tube for one of my spares.. as that saved her a long walk home..

so three chance meetings on the same ride home.. where I was in the right place at the right time..
I think that sets a record for my best commute home yet.

You are Dirk Gently AICMFP  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 14 July, 2010, 11:53:16 pm
Problems with the trains this evening meant I got the chance of a bonus ride for the last 15km home, and because it had stopped raining by then, I decided to make the most of it and took the scenic route, via the highest point in the area. OK, so round here, that isn't very high, but it does give some fine views across the marshes to the sea.

Just me and my bike, the sunset, the views, the fresh air, the scents of summer, the sounds of the countryside... the kind of thing that makes you feel glad to be alive. 

Magnifique! :thumbsup:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 15 July, 2010, 12:08:13 am
Quote from: torslanda on 14 July, 2010, 11:38:00 pm
Quote from: darkpoint on 12 July, 2010, 09:58:28 pm
oddly connected ride home this evening, I was later out of work than I was expecting, but not in a hurry.  while at the lights at elephant and castle I spotted a friend from work.. so I rode along with him for a chat, this took me off my normal route home.. as we parted I remembered another friend who lived not far from there, I war making a mental note that I must email her, when I looked across the junction to see her..  so I stopped for a chat.
that changed my route home again, which was when I saw a lass walking her bike along the pavement.. so I called out to find out if she was ok.. she had a flat, so I stopped for a chat, and swapped her inner tube for one of my spares.. as that saved her a long walk home..

so three chance meetings on the same ride home.. where I was in the right place at the right time..
I think that sets a record for my best commute home yet.

You are Dirk Gently AICMFP  :thumbsup:

 ;D ;D  I laughed out loud at that!  Nice one  :thumbsup:  POTD!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 July, 2010, 09:12:06 am
Wet.  Hey ho.  Never mind.  Fast.  That'll do. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: darkpoint on 15 July, 2010, 09:17:04 am
Quote from: torslanda on 14 July, 2010, 11:38:00 pm
Quote from: darkpoint on 12 July, 2010, 09:58:28 pm
oddly connected ride home this evening, I was later out of work than I was expecting, but not in a hurry.  while at the lights at elephant and castle I spotted a friend from work.. so I rode along with him for a chat, this took me off my normal route home.. as we parted I remembered another friend who lived not far from there, I war making a mental note that I must email her, when I looked across the junction to see her..  so I stopped for a chat.
that changed my route home again, which was when I saw a lass walking her bike along the pavement.. so I called out to find out if she was ok.. she had a flat, so I stopped for a chat, and swapped her inner tube for one of my spares.. as that saved her a long walk home..

so three chance meetings on the same ride home.. where I was in the right place at the right time..
I think that sets a record for my best commute home yet.

You are Dirk Gently AICMFP  :thumbsup:

It was very Dirk Gently, in that i am well aware that I made more than one on a whim route change, (which is something that I almost never do)  and the universe put me where i was supposed to be.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 15 July, 2010, 09:19:46 am
I was trying to take it real easy and I nearly succeeded
I got all the way to the last hill on the A38 doing a snails pace when a chap on a Look bike went past
So I knocked the changer up two gears and immediately dropped him

Some of the schools must have shut for the summer, definitely less traffic

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 15 July, 2010, 09:20:17 am
Quote from: Ham on 14 July, 2010, 12:54:43 pm
Takes a bit to rile me, but on the way through Stratford High St roadworks, where I take the lane and ride with traffic, knobhead decides I shouldn't be there, hoots and barges past very close, revving, to stop at the red light halted traffic three car length ahead. That really deserved a "What the *&&&%*".

One bright sunny morning I saw exactly this. Only the cyclist involved was a car length or so ahead of me and the driver was in an open top car.
As the cyclist repassed the car, he slapped the driver on the top of his bald head as hard as he could.
I could hear the impact from where I was. I was practically crying with laughter.
The driver had a huge red handprint right across the top of his head.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 15 July, 2010, 09:24:35 am
Punctures in the rain.  Lovely.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 15 July, 2010, 09:27:06 am
Quote from: alexb on 15 July, 2010, 09:20:17 am
One bright sunny morning I saw exactly this. Only the cyclist involved was a car length or so ahead of me and the driver was in an open top car.
As the cyclist repassed the car, he slapped the driver on the top of his bald head as hard as he could.
I could hear the impact from where I was. I was practically crying with laughter.
The driver had a huge red handprint right across the top of his head.

Ahahahahahahahahaahaahaahaaahaaahaaa!!!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 15 July, 2010, 10:16:20 am
Do we really think this is ok? Shitty driving rewarded by assault? How can you retain any kind of moral high ground if you indulge in that kind of behaviour?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 15 July, 2010, 10:22:04 am
Why would you assume we think it's OK?  Doesn't change how funny it is.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 July, 2010, 10:25:46 am
I'm not looking forward to the commute home.  I'm on a higher gear than I want to be, and there'll be a 15mph+ headwind :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: nicknack on 15 July, 2010, 10:35:13 am
Quote from: clarion on 15 July, 2010, 10:25:46 am
I'm not looking forward to the commute home.  I'm on a higher gear than I want to be, and there'll be a 15mph+ headwind :(

Ah, the joys of riding fixed. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 July, 2010, 10:37:10 am
It's worse than that; it's singlespeed :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cometworm on 15 July, 2010, 10:38:48 am
I would like to propose that the police (motorcycle) officer with shoulder number T527 be given a commendation for stopping a motorcyclist who was in the asl to explain to him that it was in fact meant for BIcycles and not MOTORcycles.  
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 July, 2010, 10:39:54 am
A copper who:

a) knows the law

and

b) can be arsed to do something about it! :o :o :o

*faints*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Access Legal Guy on 15 July, 2010, 10:43:44 am


Must have been short on paperwork target  this week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 15 July, 2010, 11:38:20 am
Quote from: boab on 15 July, 2010, 10:16:20 am
Do we really think this is ok? Shitty driving rewarded by assault? How can you retain any kind of moral high ground if you indulge in that kind of behaviour?

It's assault.

Not funny; juvenile.

If I'm walking down the street, you come the other way and bump me, is it ok if I run after you and smack you on the head?  No?  How is this cyclist's behaviour any different?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 July, 2010, 11:41:42 am
Well, the Metropolitan Police are trying to argue that the assault on me by a cabbie was a proportionate* response to the delay caused by my trying to get his details.  So perhaps we can claim that the slap is a proportionate response to the endangerment.

But, given the ridiculous nature of the Met's precarious legal position on this, perhaps not.


* Yes, this is the word they used.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 15 July, 2010, 11:54:27 am
Quote from: cometworm on 15 July, 2010, 10:38:48 am
I would like to propose that the police (motorcycle) officer with shoulder number T527 be given a commendation for stopping a motorcyclist who was in the asl to explain to him that it was in fact meant for BIcycles and not MOTORcycles.  

Sadly outweighed by the cyclist who (verbally) layed into a elderly motorist for being in an ASL this morning.

What the cyclist didn't know (because he arrived at the ASL after the fact) is that the motorist was in a queue of traffic and had already passed the first stop line of the ASL before the lights changed, so his presence in the ASL was perfectly legal, indeed the only way he could have avoided it was to jump the lights.

He (the cyclist) was ignorant of the law and wasn't interested in the fact that the old bloke hadn't done anything wrong. I did manage to apologise to the driver and tell him that not all cyclists were as rude and idiotic as this one.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 July, 2010, 11:57:45 am
Quote from: Greenbank on 15 July, 2010, 11:54:27 am
...the only way he could have avoided it was to jump the lights.

or to wait behind the STOP Line until the way was clear for him to cross the junction safely

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 15 July, 2010, 11:59:34 am
Quote from: clarion on 15 July, 2010, 10:25:46 am
I'm not looking forward to the commute home.  I'm on a higher gear than I want to be, and there'll be a 15mph+ headwind :(

I'm thinking of taking the extra-long route home tonight, purely because it goes East rather than South...

I'm on gears today, but I didn't find that much help this morning on my predominantly West-bound route - I actually find headwinds a bit easier to deal with on fixed.

edit: just had a look at xcweather and the wind appears to have got even stronger in East Kent since this morning - had I set off two hours later, I would have been riding into a 25-30mph headwind.  :o

If it keeps up until this evening, it could make going home lots of fun, though.  ;D

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 15 July, 2010, 12:07:13 pm
Quote from: clarion on 15 July, 2010, 11:57:45 am
Quote from: Greenbank on 15 July, 2010, 11:54:27 am
...the only way he could have avoided it was to jump the lights.

or to wait behind the STOP Line until the way was clear for him to cross the junction safely

True, but that's an entirely (legally) unnecessary courtesy. The circumstances made it very difficult too, right turn on a filter, the road to the right was clear but the flow of traffic into it was temporarily interrupted by, ironically, a RLJer coming the other way barging through the stream of cars.

(It was the right turn from Putney Bridge into New King's Road. New King's Road was visibly clear but the RLJer jumped the lights coming South from Fulham High St).

The point was that he wasn't doing anything illegal. Unless, of course, you advocate giving people a tirade of verbal abuse for driving within the law; which I doubt.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 July, 2010, 12:10:05 pm
I don't advocate a tirade for anybody.  I do advocate driving/riding sensibly with anticipation.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 15 July, 2010, 12:34:03 pm
Quote from: clarion on 15 July, 2010, 12:10:05 pm
I do advocate driving/riding sensibly with anticipation.

Same here. Having watched it happen as I approached the junction I cannot see how he could have anticipated this situation occurring; an unseen cyclist (he squeezed up the inside of a bus) jumping the red light and pushing across the flow of turning traffic on a green filter.

He still didn't deserve abuse from someone for legally ending up in the ASL reservoir.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 15 July, 2010, 12:40:03 pm
Quote from: clarion on 15 July, 2010, 10:25:46 am
I'm not looking forward to the commute home.  I'm on a higher gear than I want to be, and there'll be a 15mph+ headwind :(

One man's headwind is another's wings. Slightly damp wings, albeit.

:-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 15 July, 2010, 12:40:58 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 15 July, 2010, 09:24:35 am
Punctures in the rain.  Lovely.

Especially fun with new folder tyre (doesn't want to stay round or completely unfolded) and latex inner tube (very slippery when wet).

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 15 July, 2010, 12:49:30 pm
After the turn, had a crazy tailwind all the way in to work. I just sat up and barely pedalled. I know I am going to pay for it on the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 15 July, 2010, 04:01:56 pm
Quote from: clarion on 15 July, 2010, 10:25:46 am
I'm not looking forward to the commute home.  I'm on a higher gear than I want to be, and there'll be a 15mph+ headwind :(

Me either.  I had to cycle a couple of miles against the wind this morning, to the vets to pick up Talisker's pills, and I was a bit knackered after that.

This evening my commute will be via Newhaven (http://www.cyclechat.net/topic/63579-friday-as-in-thursday-night-ride-to-the-continent-15th-july/), so will be 60+ miles into the wind, possibly with a brief torrential downpour to cool me down. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 July, 2010, 04:07:23 pm
I went to a meeting at lunchtime.

19.5kph there
16.5kph return.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 15 July, 2010, 04:12:57 pm
Just go home, definitely  a Winnie the Pooh day, with all the leaves everywhere it's like Autumn.  Very bracing though, if a tad knackersome.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 15 July, 2010, 07:12:55 pm
On route to Swindon this morning the skyline depicted a scene not unlike the road to Mordor and the circling carrion did nothing to dispel that feeling of dread.

Then in Aldbourne I got the chance to lift my mood by remonstrating with the Saab driver that thought it was okay to use his mobile phone whilst driving up a narrow road slowly and without concentrating, directly in front of me.

"But it was my wife and.......
"I don't care.  Pull over and then talk.  Don't use your mobile whilst driving" was my curt reply.

Managed 46mph into Rogerz's village too.  That is a record so far.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 15 July, 2010, 09:35:25 pm
Slow. Got slowerer. Clarion caught me up when I was barely moving at all ;D. Not a bad ride though :D.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 July, 2010, 09:38:07 pm
I had a windy ride.  Up the river (on the North bank just for the sake of it, and avoiding Vauxhall) to Putney into the wind was a struggle, then down Garratt Lane & home.  I met Butterfly just coming into our town, and we rode the last bit together, which was nice.

Then I went out to the shop on the Orbit ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 15 July, 2010, 10:02:01 pm
One the commute today,  I had to use the tube (stuff to do not compatible with having the bike with me).  I hate the tube.  The central line was b0rked on the way in, so I had to divert to the Dstrict line and go Mile End to Temple (which wasn't so bad - but I still hate the tube). 

The Central line was working again in the evening, but just as crowded as I remember it (I hate the tube).  One chap was this --><-- close to having me do anatomically/geometrically impossible things involving his elbow (which kept hitting me) and one or other of his orifices.  I HATE THE TUBE!

Roll on Monday (I have a day off tomorrow!  :thumbsup:) when I'll be back on the bike.  :)

I'm much happier when it's just taxis/buses and wvm that I have to deal with instead of rude and inconsiderate commuters on an overcrowded tube.

Did I mention that I hate the tube?

(With a passion!)

I must check the balance on my Oyster card and see how much that entirely sh1tty travel experience cost me. 

I hate hate hate the tube.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 15 July, 2010, 11:23:06 pm
As mentioned earlier, I decided to take the extra-long route home to avoid the wind - so instead of 18km into a headwind, I did 50km, parts of which were wind-assisted.

And the rain had gone away, so it was a beautifully mild and pleasantly sunny evening, perfect for a ride.  :thumbsup:

About 1km from the finish, one of the saddle straps on my Barley snapped. The first I knew of it was getting patted on the bum by it as it dangled from the remaining strap - first thought was that a passing motorist was being over-familiar.  ;D

Somewhat disappointed - I've only had my Barley a few months. I would have hoped the straps might have lasted a wee bit longer.  :(

Lucky I had a bungee cord in the bag, so I was able to bodge it until I got home. Note to self: must get a Bagman.

76km total today. Not bad. I will sleep well tonight.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 16 July, 2010, 12:25:13 am
Some nice young men decided to try to give me a half dozen eggs. Unfortunately I didn't catch them and they hit my front wheel instead
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 16 July, 2010, 09:48:14 am
Wind - 20 - 40mph. Why didn't I take the train?

The tyre blowout 3km from work wasn't very welcome, either. Means a trip out to woodrups at lunchtime. In the p!ssing rain. And my Montane jacket was nicked from my pannier last week. bu&&er.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 16 July, 2010, 09:54:13 am
Had to pedal hard to make any progress downhill this morning.  :sick:

Forgot to mention yesterday - on the descent from Shooters Hill into Welling, the speed limit reminder thing at the side of the road started flashing. I presumed it must have been set off by a car behind me, but I glanced over my shoulder and there was no car there... I didn't know carbon could trigger those devices...  ???

And anyway, come on, I was only doing 43mph!  ;D

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 16 July, 2010, 11:52:27 am
On the commute home last night I stopped off at the pub where a colleague was having a leaving do.

I was going to give him a big wet sloppy kiss but decided it probably wasn't a good idea dressed as I was in loud jersey and bib shorts.

I turned it into a Lycragram instead-

A young fella in the office called Chris
His colleagues thought was taking the piss
When he said I've got a job in Surrey
So I'm off in a hurry
Well, I know one thing- he'll be missed.

I left very quickly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 16 July, 2010, 12:29:34 pm
Last evening the rain washed the remaining oil from the chain.  Overnight the rust fairy spotted the under maintained bike and painted some of the chain orange. This morning I covered the orange bits and the still silver and black bits with oil and rode to work without any rainfall so it should bed in where it is wanted.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 16 July, 2010, 07:03:30 pm
I had to drop a metre of wallboard off for a colleague today so I bungeed it across my panniers and it protruded quite a way at either side. I had to be very careful along the Innocent and a man had to ask me to move right over so he could overtake.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 17 July, 2010, 07:54:35 am
(yesterday, i know...)
A two way commute, with lighter than usual bags...
I had a 4wd only just see me in time when they were giving way. Gave me a beep and then demonstrated further mastery of their vehicle by stalling. I gave the "its a give way junction and i'm riding in as straight a line as the wind allows without signalling" shrug. I was passed at a reasonable distance and speed a bit after.
The rest of the 5km ride in is downhill and yesterday had a stiff tailwind and I got under 11 minutes door to door.  :thumbsup:
The ride home was into a stiff breeze. At the lights near home I glanced down and saw I was on 39 minutes. Hmm, I thought I was going better than that. Oh, yes, that includes the ride in. 45 minutes in the end - which is normal for the ride home alone.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: longers on 17 July, 2010, 02:47:20 pm
I got flagged down by a Mormon who wanted to spread the message on the way home just now!

I stopped and politely said I didn't have the time to chat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 18 July, 2010, 01:14:12 pm
What, you didn't take the opportunity to ask him about his sacred underwear?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: longers on 18 July, 2010, 01:27:37 pm
I wasn't aware there was an opportunity to ask about sacred underwear. Plz explain? 

I'll get chance to ask before long as this area - oldham - is getting regular visits.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 18 July, 2010, 02:42:32 pm
Friday was – erm – interesting. Short commute to the pool. On the way there, stopped at the usual junction to make a right turn, checked and pulled out. Halfway across the junction, a car comes straight out of the road almost opposite (it’s a staggered four way junction) doesn’t pause for a moment and cuts straight across my path to enter the road out of which I am leaving. Interesting opportunity to verify that my brakes work as intended. I didn’t even have an opportunity for the customary sarcastic gesture as I came to a less than stylish halt in the middle of the road. The lady (and I use the term advisedly) driving the car, for reasons unknown careened off down the street with her head stuck out the out of the window like a demented dog howling abuse at me. I was less annoyed than bemused, to be honest. I didn’t realise my mere presence was so offensive.

And then, on the way home, coming down the section of crescent road to our driveway, a Lexus 4x4 takes advantage of a one car length gap in the street-side parking to literally force its way by me. Top tip driver, if you are touching another object in the road you are too close. That said, all the windows in the car were so tinted that the driver would have been better off finding her way by rolling down the side window and poking at things with a white stick. Fortunately, I managed to find a gap on the other side and get out of the way. Now, mild-mannered though I usual am, this did quality for some kind of remonstration so I did chase her around to the next junction but on seeing me approach took fright and sped off into the main road accompanied by a chorus of beeps.

Less angry really, more a little depressed that people behave like this, just because they have the perceived protection to be inside of a metal cage.

And to cap it my day, I had a run-in with one of our fine city’s beloved black cab drivers. I didn’t even have to be on my bike, I was in the back taking a ride from the office to a do in Mayfair. Now I had clocked the Daily Mail on the dashboard when I got in, which – as an experienced black cab user – is a good sign that you should put your phone to your ear and pretend you are deep in conversation. Alas this time, I was with people. Somewhere along the Strand the driver decides to share his opinions of cyclists. Hey ho and here we go. So he starts going off about a cyclist sitting in front of the taxi at the lights (his rant started a little earlier with him complaining that cyclists don’t stop at red lights, which ironically this one is clearly doing). I just give the driver a weary “he’s not in your way if you’re not moving, is he?” The cabbie should have took the hint there and then. Anyway, he had the lit the fuse and proceeded to kick the bomb by commenting – and I kid you not – that the totally law abiding cyclist, stopped at the red lights ‘deserved to be run over by a bus’.

Generally, I am a diplomat but there are occasions when I am called on to give a resounding bollocking (which are all the more effective because of the general quiescence). All those little moments of mild-mannered and reasoned diplomacy, well each of them comes with its own counterweight, a small package of frustration. I put these little packages away somewhere. A little room somewhere deep inside my brain, where they the accumulate over time.  Eventually, I have to clear out.

So, given the day I had had, and the wannabe homicidal cabbie (who, let’s face it, was only moments away from the ‘road tax’ thing), well, the door burst open and all those accumulated packages of frustration came jumbling out in a rant of spendid, splenetic, ferociousness. It may have started with my explanation of why the cyclist was in front of the taxi (‘to stop dumb fuckers like you running over them’) to a thorough investigation of his parentage, his supposed driving skills, and much famed lack of sexual prowess. Actually, I didn’t realise it was so blistering until I was done and realised that traffic was filtering around us, beeping half-heartedly. That and the wide-eyed look on the faces of my three junior colleagues which somehow blended fear, horror, and amazement. There will be no dissent in their next round of performance reviews, I’m sure.

Cabbie, for once, seemed to have run out of opinions. He just sat there and looked like someone who had been recently colonically irrigated with liquid nitrogen. Didn’t even ask to get paid. We got out and got another cab, with a hefty slam of the door.

I had some Pimms and felt a lot better. Gotta be cheaper than therapy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 18 July, 2010, 02:43:52 pm
 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 18 July, 2010, 02:48:10 pm
ian, you are a star.  ;D  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 18 July, 2010, 08:09:06 pm
Whereas helmet-cams pick up the crap driving by our fellow road-(ab)users, there is an underlying groundswell of opinion that one should be worn, with sound recording ON, by Ian at all times.
Chapeau for putting Mr Mail-reader in his place.  And with witnesses and all.
 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 18 July, 2010, 09:19:46 pm
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 16 July, 2010, 12:29:34 pm
...the rust fairy spotted the under maintained bike and painted some of the chain orange...

A friend once described that as the "orange indicator function" of chain tehnology.  As a scientific/engineering minded person I was somewhat tickled by it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 18 July, 2010, 09:27:11 pm
Quote from: ian on 18 July, 2010, 02:42:32 pm
.

Wow!  :thumbsup:   I need lessons.  Like "self-defence" you hope you won't need it but it would be nice to be good at it if you do!.

I really hope that if I  ever find myself in that situation I'll have the RANT-fluency to give it some and keep going for a long time.  Chances are I'll peter out and go out with a whimper....

compare:

ian: quality stuff described above...

Oaky's pathetic version: "(RANTYRANTY) ... and you should realise that that road positioning is specifically only there because twunts like you don't see cyclists otherwise!!! and ...errr..e...umm... ... err? and . um Aha! Yes! i have you now! Nah-nicky-nah-nah - your cab smells like poo!"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 19 July, 2010, 08:06:39 am
26km, average speed 30.1km/h

HOOO-YUSS! That's what I'm talking about. ;D

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 19 July, 2010, 09:50:00 am
Ian's painted a wonderful picture there!

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 19 July, 2010, 03:33:41 pm
Quote from: Oaky on 18 July, 2010, 09:27:11 pm

Oaky's pathetic version: "(RANTYRANTY) ... and you should realise that that road positioning is specifically only there because twunts like you don't see cyclists otherwise!!! and ...errr..e...umm... ... err? and . um Aha! Yes! i have you now! Nah-nicky-nah-nah - your cab smells like poo!"

To be fair, I did briefly flirt with the idea of being reasonable. Then I remembered the copy of the Daily Mail on the dashboard. There is no point attempting reason once you have seen this. DM readers don't have blood, their arteries and veins pulse with toxic reactionary bile. Any attempt to pierce their adamantine ignorance will result in nothing more than a noxious spill that will corrode any good sense in the immediate vicinity. (Whether or not this causes or cures cancer has yet to be decided.)

Best to just hit them with rhetorical shovel. Repeatedly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 19 July, 2010, 04:19:20 pm
Seriously impressed Ian!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Martin109 on 19 July, 2010, 04:49:35 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 19 July, 2010, 09:50:00 am
Ian's painted a wonderful picture there!

Well done from me too!  Candidate for POTD there, Ian. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 19 July, 2010, 08:47:24 pm
I am being serious about my sugar intake again so I have cut right back, again.  So again, I feel like shit.  Commute home was tiresome to begin with but after the tailwind kicked in I got into a good rhythm.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Speshact on 19 July, 2010, 09:45:16 pm
Quote from: Martin109 on 19 July, 2010, 04:49:35 pm

Well done from me too!  Candidate for POTD there, Ian. :thumbsup:

+1

Only a shortwhile to go and you and your colleagues needn't take a black cab in central London again, being able to just grab a hire bike instead  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 19 July, 2010, 09:48:54 pm
Quote from: Speshact on 19 July, 2010, 09:45:16 pm
Quote from: Martin109 on 19 July, 2010, 04:49:35 pm

Well done from me too!  Candidate for POTD there, Ian. :thumbsup:

+1

Only a shortwhile to go and you and your colleagues needn't take a black cab in central London again, being able to just grab a hire bike instead  :smug:

Unless you register in advance and get a key, you may have to wait till the kids go back to school for this....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 19 July, 2010, 10:20:15 pm
It's lovely weather for the commute.  The Madison is riding very sweetly.  Both on the way in and the return, I arrived wishing that I still had some distance to go.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 20 July, 2010, 11:55:39 am
First bike commute to my new office in Hammersmith (I now normally work from home; been with the company for just over two weeks and this is only my second day in the UK office).

60K ride in, flew for the first bit but got slowed down by London traffic so ended up taking 2:15. That's comparable to taking the train and far more pleasant  :thumbsup:  The train is 90 minutes, two changes, plus time getting to the station and from the station to the office. I think it'll be a bit slower going home, without checking the Garmin plot is seems that on average it is downhill coming in.

Saw a forumite as he was heading west out of Sunningdale on the A30 at about 7:50am wearing a blue jersey. I suspect it was matthew, but not sure.

The ride was pretty uneventful, but as I got closer in I got to see the irritations that regular London commuters have - like the slow guy who weaves through traffic to get a small advantage at traffic lights, then has to be overtaken again. And again. Not as nice as my old countryside commute, but still a good blast in the morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 20 July, 2010, 12:00:10 pm
Quote from: MattH on 20 July, 2010, 11:55:39 am
60K ride in

Chapeau!

Sounds vastly preferable to the train journey too.

Quote
the slow guy who weaves through traffic to get a small advantage at traffic lights, then has to be overtaken again. And again

I had one of those this morning, only he didn't stop at the lights.  ::-)

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 July, 2010, 12:04:31 pm
60km commute?  That's challenging.  Chapeau!

Butterfly texted me to let me know she'd done an extra few miles on the way in this morning.  I was going to do a loop, but saw a member of staff standing outside waiting to get in, so I postponed my plans. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 20 July, 2010, 12:07:11 pm
Quote from: clarion on 20 July, 2010, 12:04:31 pm
60km commute?  That's challenging.  Chapeau!

I don't intend doing it every day  :) At the moment I'm normally doing a 16K "virtual" commute, riding with my lad to his school then back home ready to start work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 July, 2010, 12:08:36 pm
Must feel good to have done it, though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 20 July, 2010, 12:16:22 pm
I did 44km this morning (26km+18km at either end of my train journey) and I'll be doing another 18km later, possibly with another 12km tacked on at the end if I feel up to it. I thought that was pretty good going, but it does take it out of you and I don't know that I could keep it up every day - I did about 50km total yesterday and I'll probably repeat today's ride tomorrow, but I'll tone it down on Thursday, and on Friday I'll take the Brommie and do the shortest possible routes.

60km there and back every day would be seriously tiring.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 20 July, 2010, 12:23:35 pm
Mind you, fingers crossed, there's a possibility that I'll soon have a 35km door-to-door journey to get to work, which as certain other forum members have shown is very doable as a cycling-only commute...

Not that this is my main reason for wanting the job, obviously.  ;D

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 20 July, 2010, 12:30:41 pm
Quote from: citizen smudge on 20 July, 2010, 12:16:22 pm
60km there and back every day would be seriously tiring.

Didn't one of the RAAM riders move 60 miles away from his work so he could put in 120 miles a day as training?

But whenever I see mention of regular cycling being tiring I always think of Tommy Godwin (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tommy_Godwin_%28cyclist_born_1912%29) doing more than 200 miles a day for over a year in the 40's.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 20 July, 2010, 12:39:30 pm
Initially I felt a bit 'wrong' on the bike this morning.  I always do when I change from the TCR to the Etape or vice versa day in day out.  But after a couple of miles I cheered up.
Outside HQ a Chief Inspector friend thought he was being funny when he jokingly tried to knock me off.  I over reacted in surprise and nearly fell off.  I also had a sudden sense of humour failure but recovered quite quickly.
A few mintues later a jinker lorry full of trees took umberage to me being on the centre line and filtering passed a long row of stationary traffic so he actually moved right over to force me to stop and take cover to avoid being wiped out.  At this point I seriously thought about binning the commute and going home.  :facepalm:
The I caught up with a Landrover Discovery driver and he was really polite and moved over for me in anticipation that I would overtake him.  I didn't because I could see I would not get anywhere due to the congestion ahead of him but he continued to be courteous so that lifted my mood.  Then I caught up with a cement lorry and he shielded me from the wind and gave me a great draught for at least a mile so by then I was well chuffed and fired up.
All is well that ends well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 20 July, 2010, 12:40:03 pm
Quote from: MattH on 20 July, 2010, 11:55:39 am

Saw a forumite as he was heading west out of Sunningdale on the A30 at about 7:50am wearing a blue jersey. I suspect it was matthew, but not sure.

Yep that was me, just starting my easy 8.5 mile commute. I trust you got through the level crossing without getting stopped.

I assume you followed the A30 through Staines and then A315 through Bedfont, Hounslow and Brentford rather than the A30, A4 past Heathrow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 20 July, 2010, 12:42:40 pm
Quote from: citizen smudge on 20 July, 2010, 12:23:35 pm
Mind you, fingers crossed, there's a possibility that I'll soon have a 35km door-to-door journey to get to work, which as certain other forum members have shown is very doable as a cycling-only commute...

Not that this is my main reason for wanting the job, obviously.  ;D

d.


I dream of a 35Km commute only.....  ;D

(to be fair, it is only 3 days a week, with another only 36 in total)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 20 July, 2010, 12:52:45 pm
Quote from: citizen smudge on 20 July, 2010, 12:16:22 pm
60km there and back every day would be seriously tiring.

Doing 120km round trip every day would be a bit much, but one thing I was really worried about in stopping my last job (with its 35k round trip) was loosing the background fitness that you get from just riding every day. Doing the virtual commute with my lad, plus this occasionally, should stop that happening.

Quote from: matthew on 20 July, 2010, 12:40:03 pm
Quote from: MattH on 20 July, 2010, 11:55:39 am

Saw a forumite as he was heading west out of Sunningdale on the A30 at about 7:50am wearing a blue jersey. I suspect it was matthew, but not sure.

Yep that was me, just starting my easy 8.5 mile commute. I trust you got through the level crossing without getting stopped.

I assume you followed the A30 through Staines and then A315 through Bedfont, Hounslow and Brentford rather than the A30, A4 past Heathrow.

The crossing was fine.
That's pretty much the way I went. Quite an easy ride in, the only "exciting" parts were the Egham A30/M25 roundabout and the Chiswick roundabout - but only because I wasn't 100% sure which lane to be in. I'm fast enough to do vehicular cycling around them, and quite happy to take the lane (but don't want to unecessarily upset people by using the wrong one and needing to move over at exits).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 20 July, 2010, 01:58:09 pm
Quote from: MattH on 20 July, 2010, 12:52:45 pm
one thing I was really worried about in stopping my last job (with its 35k round trip) was loosing the background fitness that you get from just riding every day.

Oh yes. Right now, I'm fitter than I've been in years. And a stone lighter too.  :thumbsup:

Mind you, long-distance cycle commuting does have its drawbacks - I've just eaten a decent lunch and I'm still hungry...  :P

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 20 July, 2010, 02:31:39 pm
I don't understand the problem. You can eat as much of what you want, when you want, and think this is an issue?  :)

Actually, for me it is - MrsH doesn't really appreciate me stuffing myself constantly and losing weight whilst she has to count the calories!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 July, 2010, 02:37:30 pm
I think my commute is as long as I want it.  Anything over 20km would mean more than an hour on the road each way (for me), and I don't want to take more time than that from my family.  Also, I can face my commute in midwinter, but further might be more than my spirit can take.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 20 July, 2010, 02:41:09 pm
Quote from: citizen smudge on 20 July, 2010, 01:58:09 pm
Mind you, long-distance cycle commuting does have its drawbacks - I've just eaten a decent lunch and I'm still hungry...  :P

Don't underestimate the price of the extra food required to feed you (you can't go on running a calorie deficit forever!).  Yes I know it's easy to find cheaper and healthier food that provides 500 kcal but that's not the point of this example.

My commute is a 24km round trip, that uses approximately 500kcal given that I push quite hard on.

An annual train ticket for that journey is £600. Over 226 work days that's £2.65 a day.

A Classic Super Club sandwich from Pret near the office provides 545kcal and is £2.95.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 20 July, 2010, 02:48:49 pm
Quote from: MattH on 20 July, 2010, 02:31:39 pm
I don't understand the problem. You can eat as much of what you want, when you want, and think this is an issue?  :)

It's only a problem because it's expensive! And because I had to make a second trip out of the office to buy more food...

I've treated myself to a pack of M&S whoopie pies. Well, I won't eat all of them - I'll share them with my colleagues - but yes, it's very nice to know I can afford to eat such things without being worried about my waistline. Only 200 calories each!  ;D

Generally, I'll try to make food at home to bring in. To expand on Greenbank's point, a big pot of home-made vegetable stew is like a weekly lunch season ticket while a Pret sandwich is a day return.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 20 July, 2010, 03:05:28 pm
I solved the fuel problem by taking in an apple and a banana for mid-morning and mid-afternoon snacks, then a tin of soup and some bread rolls for lunch. Inexpensive and easy - with a stack of tins on my desk, I always had food available.

There doesn't seem to be a microwave in this new building though  :(

The comparing the price of food with a season ticket doesn't work for me though. I enjoy food, so there is greater value to me in the more expensive £2.95 sandwich than the £2.65 ticket.
Actually, for this commute, the daily train ticket is about £30 (not worth buying a weekly or other season ticket as I'm coming in so rarely). £30 buys a lot of very scrummy food  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 20 July, 2010, 11:57:39 pm
Quote from: Grub on 20 July, 2010, 12:39:30 pm
...
A few mintues later a jinker lorry full of trees took umberage to me being on the centre line and filtering passed a long row of stationary traffic so he actually moved right over to force me to stop and take cover to avoid being wiped out.  At this point I seriously thought about binning the commute and going home.  :facepalm:
...

For Heaven's sake man - you have a warrant card.  Abuse it!   :thumbsup:


 ;) ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 21 July, 2010, 09:51:12 am
Can you have Friday legs on a Wednesday? :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 July, 2010, 09:56:01 am
I manage to have Friday Legs on a Monday some weeks. :-[

But this morning was a great ride.  First time fixed on the new Solo.  Absolutely brilliant.  My twirling legs leaving roadies in the dust :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 21 July, 2010, 10:03:45 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 21 July, 2010, 09:51:12 am
Can you have Friday legs on a Wednesday? :-\

Yes.  :(

I suspect I would have been quicker on fixed today.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 21 July, 2010, 11:02:45 am
Alone on the ASL on the bent for a few peaceful seconds at red. Two planes cirling low between sparse cotton-wool clouds.
Amber, green, ah yes london tarmac's a harsh place to ride on, even when painted blue.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 21 July, 2010, 11:04:23 am
Found 2 Chinese students 10km out of Cambridge on the side of the road. Apparently the bus driver had realised they were going in the wrond direction, and told them to get off the bus and wait on the opposite side of the road for another bus. Unfortunately, it was their first day, and they didn't know what their language school was called or where it was. The plan was to get on a particular bus, and the teacher would pull them off at the correct stop. Wrong bus put paid to that. All they had was an emergency number, and the teacher on the other end didn't speak english well enough to have a conversation. Eventually a french lady who could speak english came on the phone, and we arranged a taxi to come get them, which I waited for.

And the payment for my good deed? My four year old poured his drink over himself and cried all the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ScumOfTheRoad on 21 July, 2010, 12:11:39 pm
Quote from: Arno on 21 July, 2010, 11:02:45 am
Alone on the ASL on the bent for a few peaceful seconds at red. Two planes cirling low between sparse cotton-wool clouds.
Amber, green, ah yes london tarmac's a harsh place to ride on, even when painted blue.


I'm not sure - should this be turned into a Haiku?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 21 July, 2010, 12:17:18 pm
Two seconds at red
Summer in the ASL
Red, Amber, Green, Blue.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: dkahn400 on 21 July, 2010, 02:07:07 pm
Alone stopped at red
I watch planes in white-flecked sky.
Amber, green. Harsh blue.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 21 July, 2010, 02:29:37 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 20 July, 2010, 02:41:09 pm
Don't underestimate the price of the extra food required to feed you (you can't go on running a calorie deficit forever!).  Yes I know it's easy to find cheaper and healthier food that provides 500 kcal but that's not the point of this example.

My commute is a 24km round trip, that uses approximately 500kcal given that I push quite hard on.

My commute is 28.7km each way, and it takes me about an hour (57 - 107). Sporttracks is reporting around 950kcal. Where do you get 500kcal from? I've mentioned this on the weight loss thread, and SimonP thought the numbers are about right. It seems like a lot to me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 21 July, 2010, 02:49:53 pm
Quote from: DrMekon on 21 July, 2010, 02:29:37 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 20 July, 2010, 02:41:09 pm
Don't underestimate the price of the extra food required to feed you (you can't go on running a calorie deficit forever!).  Yes I know it's easy to find cheaper and healthier food that provides 500 kcal but that's not the point of this example.

My commute is a 24km round trip, that uses approximately 500kcal given that I push quite hard on.

My commute is 28.7km each way, and it takes me about an hour (57 - 107). Sporttracks is reporting around 950kcal. Where do you get 500kcal from? I've mentioned this on the weight loss thread, and SimonP thought the numbers are about right. It seems like a lot to me.

A conservative estimate, but it fits quite well with the my food diary entries and corresponding weight loss although it could easily be caused by overestimating my BMR. There's no real science to back it up, the values from my HRM and Edge 705 were far too high (over 1300kcal for the round trip).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 21 July, 2010, 07:09:49 pm
Oh good, I thought it was just my crappy Friday-legs-onna-Wednesday.

I had to have some 85% cocoa Green & Blacks before leaving work to power me home. I think I prefer the cheap Dairy Milk shite, however. I'm so classy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 21 July, 2010, 07:19:47 pm
Within a mile of leaving I am nearly taken out by some tourist leaving the tow path and entering the main road without even looking, and then not even a sorry when I have to take avoiding action to miss the collision.  Twat.

Then I meet The Hobbit on his bike and I must have been invisible in my carbon YACF jersey as he totally blanked me.  We were face to face on a minor road and me with my flashing light but nope, not a peek.  Twat.

Then in Devizes town it was really busy, being the peak period and all, so I took it really slow and carefully.  I saw the cyclist turning right into Morrisons through the windshield of the car in front of me, so I slowed and sort of track standed.  But the dude on the bright orange folder, all Roger-esque-like didn't and he nearly hit me.

Then, to cap it off he tried to drop me as we went off.  I was incredulous.  When we got to the bridge over the canal he went backwards so I put in some effort and Schlecked him. 

What a laugh.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 21 July, 2010, 07:35:23 pm
For the first time ever I both felt intimidated enough by a close pass, but also in control enough to respond physically at the time (as opposed to verbally or after the pass). Just caught the back corner of their car with my fingers. No reaction, not even a look back as they waited at the lights just ahead. Next three cars gave me more than average passing space though. Lights changed too quickly for me to catch them on the hill, so no opportunity for witty banter.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 July, 2010, 07:43:58 pm
Sailed home, even though I was going into a headwind.  Even passed some road bikes up past Clapham Common.  I like fixed :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 21 July, 2010, 08:09:29 pm
Remembered how to ride gears into a headwind tonight - head down, low gear, high cadence, managed an average speed close to what I'd do on a calm day.

I like gears. ;)

I'll be back on fixed next week though.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 21 July, 2010, 08:14:42 pm
Quote from: ScumOfTheRoad on 21 July, 2010, 12:11:39 pm
Quote from: Arno on 21 July, 2010, 11:02:45 am
Alone on the ASL on the bent for a few peaceful seconds at red. Two planes cirling low between sparse cotton-wool clouds.
Amber, green, ah yes london tarmac's a harsh place to ride on, even when painted blue.


I'm not sure - should this be turned into a Haiku?
How can tell when its a haiku? Does is have to fit in a tweet?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 21 July, 2010, 08:33:02 pm
Seventeen syllables
usually fit into a tweet
That's haiku
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 July, 2010, 08:35:17 pm
18 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 21 July, 2010, 08:38:15 pm
Quote from: clarion on 21 July, 2010, 08:35:17 pm
18 ;D

Whoops! ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 21 July, 2010, 10:49:09 pm
Two bikes collided in front of me at the junction on the north side of London Bridge.  Bike no 1 had sailed through the red light oblivious to bike no 2 and many others whose path she was crossing.  Bike no 1 came off worse, but just a few bruises I suspect.  Bike No 2 pretty pissed off and demanding ID of miscreant.  I provided my details as witness just in case any damage to Bike No 2 subsequently emerged.  In the eyes of all observing motons and peds, the credibility of cyclists put back several steps, I suspect.  Probably even some applause.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 22 July, 2010, 07:35:46 am
There's obviously a contagious strain of "Lead Legs" doing the rounds atm. :(

Which was disappointing on a fine morning with little or no breeze.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 22 July, 2010, 08:04:33 am
Extremely tired this morning.  Too much skating, too little sleep, and too much cycling mileage.  Well, for me anyway.

On the up note, I passed 1000km this month, avoided a clown in a taxi jinking to the left as I was about to filter, and had some great conversations with other road users.  One was a girl with exceptionally smooth pedalling, saw her three times this week.  Really impressive.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 22 July, 2010, 08:31:32 am
No more commuting for me this week.  I am on leave for the Mille Cymru that I am no longer doing due to the after effects of the Easter Arrow and the desire of Mrs G to retain a husband with functioning legs for a while longer.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 22 July, 2010, 08:38:24 am
Wow!  37 minutes in to work on fixed; that's 5 minutes off my fixed record and only a couple of minutes behind my geared record.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 22 July, 2010, 08:39:13 am
Quote from: Wendy on 22 July, 2010, 08:04:33 am
...a girl with exceptionally smooth pedalling...
Not heard it called that before. ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 July, 2010, 09:11:03 am
I rode in on my Woodrup instead of the fixed today.  The old girl can still come up with the goods! :thumbsup:

Over 25kph average, which is my target.  Topped 40kph on the flat (well, flattish).  Was away from the lights and tightening the screw on my dt lever before the other riders had even clipped in.

I was passed by a few riders, but not many at all.

I hope the headwind home isn't too bad, because I'm straight off out to TGL's Club ride later. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: dkahn400 on 22 July, 2010, 12:40:19 pm
Quote from: Arno on 21 July, 2010, 08:14:42 pm
Quote from: ScumOfTheRoad on 21 July, 2010, 12:11:39 pm
Quote from: Arno on 21 July, 2010, 11:02:45 am
Alone on the ASL on the bent for a few peaceful seconds at red. Two planes cirling low between sparse cotton-wool clouds.
Amber, green, ah yes london tarmac's a harsh place to ride on, even when painted blue.


I'm not sure - should this be turned into a Haiku?
How can tell when its a haiku? Does is have to fit in a tweet?


It can (http://twitter.com/dkahn400/status/19247718838)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 22 July, 2010, 06:55:54 pm
Waiting to pull out of the side road from our industrial estate to the main road, felt my contact lens shift in my right eye. Blinked, felt it fall out onto my cheek and then it blew away. A most disconcerting ride home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 22 July, 2010, 08:01:20 pm
On the  plus side, I survived/ evaded the storm. On the minus side, ye gods my poor backside was not ready for fixed yet. OW!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 July, 2010, 09:36:34 pm
What are those drivers on tonight?  I've had a week or so of commutes relatively untroubled by caged morons, but I had people emerging from side roads in front of me, attempting left hooks, passing without actually pulling out at all, overtaking on blind bends, driving through red lights etc etc.  It might be related to the heeeyuge long queues of motor traffic in various places.  Rubbish.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ktcita on 22 July, 2010, 09:54:19 pm
Good pace setting tonight by a lass on a racer. We had a good chat at the lights and then she headed the other way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 22 July, 2010, 10:00:45 pm
The theme of the commute today, especially this morning, seemed to be pedestrians walking into the road without looking.  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ktcita on 22 July, 2010, 10:08:33 pm
Quote from: Oaky on 22 July, 2010, 10:00:45 pm
The theme of the commute today, especially this morning, seemed to be pedestrians walking into the road without looking.  :-\

I had that yesterday but it was a jogger who stepped onto the road without looking. I yelled at him as I had no time to do anything else. The cyclist behind me informed me later that the jogger jumped quite high after I yelled. Perhaps he'll look next time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: dkahn400 on 22 July, 2010, 11:04:49 pm
Quote from: ktcita on 22 July, 2010, 10:08:33 pm
Quote from: Oaky on 22 July, 2010, 10:00:45 pm
The theme of the commute today, especially this morning, seemed to be pedestrians walking into the road without looking.  :-\

I had that yesterday but it was a jogger who stepped onto the road without looking. I yelled at him as I had no time to do anything else. The cyclist behind me informed me later that the jogger jumped quite high after I yelled. Perhaps he'll look next time.

Darwin will weed them out once electric cars become common.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 July, 2010, 09:30:28 am
Ah, but there has been much discussion of this danger, and it appears that many motor manufacturers have developed sounds which can be downloaded  & played from the motor car in motion.  Electric cars could sound like a Countach.  Or else we could end up with a cacophony of 'ringtones' on our streets :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 23 July, 2010, 10:24:47 am
Quote from: clarion on 23 July, 2010, 09:30:28 am
Ah, but there has been much discussion of this danger, and it appears that many motor manufacturers have developed sounds which can be downloaded  & played from the motor car in motion.  Electric cars could sound like a Countach.  Or else we could end up with a cacophony of 'ringtones' on our streets :o

With most car-tones being irritating but the occasional one being so funny as to make you fall off the bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 23 July, 2010, 10:29:36 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 23 July, 2010, 10:24:47 am
Quote from: clarion on 23 July, 2010, 09:30:28 am
Ah, but there has been much discussion of this danger, and it appears that many motor manufacturers have developed sounds which can be downloaded  & played from the motor car in motion.  Electric cars could sound like a Countach.  Or else we could end up with a cacophony of 'ringtones' on our streets :o

With most car-tones being irritating but the occasional one being so funny as to make you fall off the bike.

Oh the fun you will be able to have, "Ride of the Valyries" and "Imperial March" spring to mind as two good ones :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 July, 2010, 10:35:41 am
Can you imagine suffering them for the course of even a short journey, tho? :o

I was just musing last night in Clapham how cars are much quieter these days than they used to be.  Noise pollution used to be an awful lot worse.  Now the floodgates will be opened by, ironically, the 'greener' alternative :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 23 July, 2010, 10:36:37 am
Quote from: clarion on 23 July, 2010, 09:30:28 am
Or else we could end up with a cacophony of 'ringtones' on our streets :o

*ignites headphones whilst cycling debate again*

Unless they make them invisible it doesn't make much difference to me, I'll still be looking for them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 23 July, 2010, 10:48:30 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 21 July, 2010, 09:51:12 am
Can you have Friday legs on a Wednesday? :-\

As already noted, yes you can. But conversely, you can also have Monday legs on a Friday...

Man, I was flying this morning!  :smug:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 July, 2010, 10:52:32 am
Quote from: Greenbank on 23 July, 2010, 10:36:37 am
Quote from: clarion on 23 July, 2010, 09:30:28 am
Or else we could end up with a cacophony of 'ringtones' on our streets :o

*ignites headphones whilst cycling debate again*

Unless they make them invisible it doesn't make much difference to me, I'll still be looking for them.

Fair.  But the excuse safety reason for opening another lucrative market to lure the gullible this important development is that blind people won't know cars are coming along the road.  I'm not sure how convinced I am of this justification, but I imagine there's something in it.  Whether a bleeping or burst of music will sufficiently signify the presence of motor traffic is debateable too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 23 July, 2010, 10:54:48 am
Quote from: tiermat on 23 July, 2010, 10:29:36 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 23 July, 2010, 10:24:47 am
Quote from: clarion on 23 July, 2010, 09:30:28 am
Ah, but there has been much discussion of this danger, and it appears that many motor manufacturers have developed sounds which can be downloaded  & played from the motor car in motion.  Electric cars could sound like a Countach.  Or else we could end up with a cacophony of 'ringtones' on our streets :o

With most car-tones being irritating but the occasional one being so funny as to make you fall off the bike.

Oh the fun you will be able to have, "Ride of the Valyries" and "Imperial March" spring to mind as two good ones :)

the 'horses trotting' sound effect from MT and the Holy Grail.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 July, 2010, 11:01:30 am
That should be obligatory for all motor vehicles.  But not recorded.  Perhaps the chap carrying the red flag in front could double up as a 'Patsy'.

</dreaming of supreme executive power, having experienced a typical rush hour in that there London village>
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 23 July, 2010, 02:56:20 pm

Well, this morning the bicycle odometer clicked over 66666 counting the number of km commuted to my current place of work....   :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 July, 2010, 03:02:21 pm
You just keep going, don't you, pdm?  You're all that stands between me & 30th position on Bikejournal, but you keep about 100km ahead.  I think it's reducing verrrrry slowly, but I have to admit that your lumpy miles are probably worth more than my pretty flat ones.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 23 July, 2010, 04:20:49 pm
Quote from: clarion on 23 July, 2010, 10:35:41 am

I was just musing last night in Clapham how cars are much quieter these days than they used to be.  Noise pollution used to be an awful lot worse.  Now the floodgates will be opened by, ironically, the 'greener' alternative :-\

Do you think that modern cars are quieter? I think tyre noise at anything above 40 mph is appalling these days - those giagantic fat radials make an unbelievable noise IMHO.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 July, 2010, 04:23:46 pm
I was also thinking how much the tyre noise had increased, but I'd have to say that the drop in engine noise/general rattles outweighs it in my opinion (though I have been a bit deaf for the last couple of decades or so, so I may not be picking up some of the sounds).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 23 July, 2010, 04:25:06 pm
Quote from: Gordy on 23 July, 2010, 04:20:49 pm
Do you think that modern cars are quiter?

Compared to cars that are 10+ years old, yes.

I remember picking up a rental car (a brand new Ford Focus Estate) about 8 years ago and I was walking round the car with the agent going over all of the bits of damage making sure they're were all logged. After doing it I asked him for the keys. "They're in the ignition, it's running."

Cars like the Prius and G-Wiz are very quiet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 23 July, 2010, 08:05:06 pm
Took the slightly longer way home via the sea front today, enjoyed the hills, no seriously dangerous driving (and once past moulescoomb no inconsiderate driving either). 21km to work and back in under and hour with books in the panniers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 24 July, 2010, 11:28:19 am
Went straight from work to see friends in Streatham Common, yesterday, so my route took me through Tooting Bec Common.  As I was pushing up Bedford Hill, I realise I'd acquired a wheelsucker - only this one was on a motorbike.  First he tailed me, then he came alongside, pulled slightly ahead, then dropped back again.  When he started yelling something, I thought "Oh God, some bike-hating nutter?"  But when I made out what he was yelling (in very broken English) over the traffic, I realised he was complementing my riding.  "Smashing riding: you have it all together."  I felt a bit of a cheat, since I don't think he realised that cadence isn't optional on a fixie, but it put a smile on my face that lasted almost to my destination.  Almost, because some arse in a Polo pushed into the cycle lane that runs along Streatham Common and squeezed me so tightly against the raised concrete curbs that my pedal raised a torrent of sparks and I worried that the crank had been damaged.  Arsehole.

Still, both the mad Slavic biker and the ride itself left me smiling, at the end of the day.  I realise that I've fallen completely in love with riding fixed and would ride fixed for preference.  My Mixer has been hanging from it's wall mount for a week and only gets used for shopping or as a backup when the Madison is out of commission.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 27 July, 2010, 09:59:56 am
OK, I've stopped shaking enough to type now...

Almost got wiped out by a lorry this morning. Scary.

I was heading east-to-west along Southwark Street, following a taxi, just a few metres behind it, and matching its speed (about 40km/h). Approaching the crossroads with Southwark Bridge Road, there's a lorry coming the other way, wanting to turn right. He sees the taxi coming and waits. But as soon as the taxi is past, he starts turning. Either he's seen me but he hasn't registered me, or he's thinking "Cyclist = slow, so I've got time to turn" even though I was going the same speed as the taxi.

What to do? It's too late to brake, and I'm probably going too fast to stop safely anyway...

I yelled out a bloodcurdling "Nooooooooo!" and for a moment, seriously thought I was a goner. Fortunately, the lorry driver had second thoughts about making the turn and I was able to swerve to avoid going under his wheels. Then I yelled something else altogether more fruity by way of an assessment of his driving skills...

Man, that was terrifying.

Note to self: it wasn't your fault but it's always you who'll come off worse, so look after yourself and try to ride more defensively in future. A bit more circumspection when approaching junctions, perhaps. Especially that junction, where you know from experience that motorists are always taking liberties.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 27 July, 2010, 10:01:52 am
Glad you're still with us! 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 27 July, 2010, 10:02:41 am
Me too!  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 July, 2010, 10:03:18 am
Gosh.  Glad you're still with us.  That was a close one.  

I get people trying to run me over like that fairly regularly.

No car = Gap.

No It Doesn't! >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 July, 2010, 10:07:05 am
Following on from that (or rather not following at all), I had a great ride.  Interesting mix of riders.  Lots of 'fast' bikes pottering along, and some folk you might expect to be slower keeping up a blistering pace.

Good fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 27 July, 2010, 10:11:22 am
Quote from: clarion on 27 July, 2010, 10:03:18 am
I get people trying to run me over like that fairly regularly.

It happens quite a lot to me, especially at that junction, but I'm not usually going that fast (usually because there's more traffic) and that's about as close a call as I've had.

Quote
No car = Gap.

No It Doesn't! >:(

What is it with these idiots? OK, so I admit I was probably going too fast to be safe in the circumstances, but motorists have got to get it into their heads that a) the rules about giving way at junctions include giving way to cyclists, and b) not all cyclists are sub-10mph pootlers.

Anyway, the rest of my ride this morning was wonderful, so it's not all bad. Summer holidays = fewer cars and more bikes.  :thumbsup:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 July, 2010, 10:14:02 am
You were riding at the same speed as the other traffic.  Too fast?  I wouldn't think so.  Personally, I don't like going much over 40kph ever in town, but you're faster than me generally.  I feel more at risk riding slowly.  If you are travelling with the motor traffic, you should be very visible (as it seems you are).  However, drivers must learn that they have to drive according to what is actually on the road, rather than what they want to be there...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 27 July, 2010, 11:41:31 am
Citoyen, if you're riding too quickly then so am I.  My only concession to drivers like that is to be glaring at them early on, so they get the idea.  In my experience, drivers are more comfortable with riders who behave consistently; I choose to be consistent in demanding the same road space and consideration as a car.  On balance, I feel it's less risky than the alternative.

Fast run in this morning, particularly the stretch from Battersea Bridge up to Kensington Road, where I smoked all comers ;)  It's now been 12 days since I did less than 5 miles on fixed (and a regular 17 miles each working day).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 27 July, 2010, 12:04:52 pm
Looking back on it, I would have liked to have been going slower so as to be able to stop. Not because I think I should have made any concessions to the lorry driver, just for the purposes of self-preservation.

I'd got the bit between my teeth and had been chasing the taxi since Borough High St. Not for any reason, just because I felt up for it. I wouldn't normally worry too much about stopping from that speed, but I was on fixed and I'd be worried about catapulting myself off the bike by forgetting to pedal.  :-\

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 27 July, 2010, 02:23:50 pm
Quote from: clarion on 27 July, 2010, 10:14:02 am
You were riding at the same speed as the other traffic.  Too fast?  I wouldn't think so.  Personally, I don't like going much over 40kph ever in town...

My commute isn't through quite as busy an area, and I tend to do it later than rush hour deliberately to hit (metaphorically speaking) less traffic.  I still tend to find that I barely exceed 20mph on most commutes.  The only bit I occasionally do fast, is along Queenstown Road, which is quite straight and wide for a period, and you can hack it at 30mph for a while, should the wind and how well you feel coincide!  Generally I don't feel comfortable over 20mph in most London traffic, since I simply can't stop quickly enough if some loon does something spectacularly stupid.

I had an incident like citoyen's a couple of years back, going through a junction downhill at speed, on a Brompton, when a van just drove right across in front of me.  I still don't know how I missed it, but that was also a "Fuck this is it" moment, followed by very wobbly legs. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 July, 2010, 02:55:24 pm
How are you feeling, Citoyen?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 27 July, 2010, 03:09:47 pm
Quote from: clarion on 27 July, 2010, 02:55:24 pm
How are you feeling, Citoyen?

Fine, thanks! I was shaken up after it happened, but by the time I'd had a shower and got to my desk with a large coffee, my nerves were restored more or less to equilibrium. I'll be fine. I had a fright but I live to ride another day!

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 July, 2010, 03:12:04 pm
Cool.  Hard nut. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 28 July, 2010, 10:11:10 am
Brilliantly naughty section of commute.  Pass slow moving cars in closed lane, cross stream of cars and turn left through a red light.   :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 28 July, 2010, 10:25:28 am
New PB for my 26km route on fixed* this morning - average 28.14km/h. And there was a headwind!  :smug:

Felt really good. Very sweaty by the end of it, but not hacking and wheezing like I would have been a couple of months ago if I'd attempted to go that fast.

Then I won the Tour de Commute along Lambeth Road (from the bottom of Denmark Hill to Elephant & Castle). There was quite a crowd out this morning but only one serious challenger - chap on a nice Focus. I let him take one of the intermediate sprints but the yellow jersey was mine all mine. To top it all, I managed to surf a bit of a green wave for quite a long stretch. Which was nice.  ;D

And no one tried to kill me today. Which was even nicer.

d.

*I've done it faster on the BLACK bike
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 28 July, 2010, 10:34:14 am
I should have got the hint from today's route:

Home
Carshalton on the Hill
Broad Green
Norbury
Beulah Hill
Knights Hill
Tulse Hill
Herne Hill
Denmark Hill
Walworth.

Perhaps fixed wasn't the best idea.

Not the best idea, no, but fun, certainly.  My knees may forgive me one day.;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Zipperhead on 28 July, 2010, 04:37:31 pm
I cruised along Swandon Way enjoying the lack of traffic until the lights with Old York Road/Smugglers Way. Round the outside of all the stationary traffic and stopped behind a motorcycle which was second in the queue.

I know that if I push hard when these lights go green then I'll make it through the next set which allow traffic onto Wandsworth Bridge Roundabout.

The sun is shining, I've got the new Tom Jones album playing, everything feels pretty good.

Lights change, I give it *everything*. As I'm accelerating the front wheel is dancing from side to side even though I'm sitting down and leaning over the bars. My speed goes up, the cars aren't keeping pace with me. Coming up to the next lights the motorcycles start slowing down for the roundabout and start going backwards with respect to me. Into the roundabout at 25mph, but still accelerating, it just feels good. Straighten up for an instant and glance down, 30 point something mph. 72 inches of absolute spin. Lean over to the right for the next bit of the roundabout and now I've got a problem. There's a van just to my left and I don't know if he's leaving at the next exit where I want to go, if he doesn't then I'm carrying enough speed that it's going to make going further round the roundabout interesting. Interesting in a brown squelchy way. The van floats off to the left leaving me space to pull off the roundabout, still in the outside lane of three, still faster than the rest of the traffic. Once I've straightened up I move over to the left hand lane and ease off the pace before my thighs explode.

Ace.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 28 July, 2010, 04:42:58 pm
Post of the Day.  As I said before, quoting Mishun H 'Mint' Sugworth, in response to one of your other posts:

This Is Why.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 28 July, 2010, 05:44:27 pm
I'm sure I've had a tail wind both this morning and on my return this evening. :)
Well, not exactly a tail wind, but still a help.  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 29 July, 2010, 12:00:56 am
Nice one G, and on your birthday too!!  Excellent post.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 29 July, 2010, 01:29:23 pm
Motorists are often irritated when stuck behind slow cyclists.  They become even more irritated when you pull out and overtake both them and the slow cyclists, it seems.  I hope they don't take it out on the cyclist immediately in front.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 29 July, 2010, 02:19:51 pm
Not on my commute exactly...

Just saw a cyclist giving both barrels to the driver of a John Lewis lorry outside the office (Southwark Street). I was inspecting the Borisbikes when she pulled up alongside the parked lorry across the road and started having a go. Couldn't quite work out what her beef was but it seemed to be something he'd done back down the road and she'd caught up with him when he stopped to make his delivery.

The driver looked pretty sheepish, so I suspect he knew he was in the wrong. Didn't seem too keen to apologise, though - he just wound up his window and gestured to her to go away but she wasn't having any of it, parked her bike against the front of his lorry and took down his details, and made it clear she would be reporting him to his boss.

Anyway, just wanted to say: Well done, that cyclist!

If you're reading this, I was going to cross the road to offer moral support but there was too much traffic and by the time it had cleared, you were on your way. And whatever it was the lorry driver had done to get you so upset, I hope your complaint is fruitful.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 29 July, 2010, 04:21:07 pm
Oh, if anybody reading this is a large bloke who was travelling west along Prince of Wales Drive in black top and shorts on a red steel roadie at 7:30pm last night - mate, you're too tall for that bike.  Your knees were approaching your ears.  I'm only exaggerating slightly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 30 July, 2010, 10:02:47 am
Great ride in.  I set off early to get to work for 0800.  Pretty clear roads, and just one bus insisting on driving in the smurflane.

I got passed by a few fast lads, including a large bloke wearing ordinary clothes on a Sirrus and riding like the clappers!  But I passed plenty more.

Usual crop of ignorant and incompetent motorists, but that's the nature of the thing.  Nothing bad enough to report to RSL. 

An excellent ride.  Not the fastest, but fair shifting for a Friday.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tourist Tony on 30 July, 2010, 04:19:53 pm
W173 JPV
Yes you heard me, you pink shirted open-top driving bald twunt. Yes I called you a banker three times, in between calling out your number to let you know I'd memorised it and making my voice loud enough that whomever you were speaking to on your handheld mobile could hear how you were perceived. When I move out to primary to avoid the sodding great pothole by Meadowcroft Lodge it does not mean you squeeze through at 50 with barely two inches of clearance. And when you pull into a side street to await me to either drive at me or have a fight, make sure it is one before the turning I take and not after.
Cockwomble.




Now breathe.....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 30 July, 2010, 07:07:53 pm
Ow, that was not fun.  Only a short way into the commute home, a spoke popped loose on my rear wheel.  Before I knew what was happening, it became snarled up in the chain, knackering it.   One bike down till I get that fixed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 02 August, 2010, 07:41:39 am
On the saltway a couple of miles outside Lechlade.
A silver estate car.
Abandoned in such a way as to completely block the road.
How very odd.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mobbsy on 02 August, 2010, 09:03:14 am
For the second time this summer; all lights green, light traffic keeping their distance. All is good in the world this morning.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hulver on 02 August, 2010, 09:14:34 am
Lovely run in this morning. On the geared bike for a change to make sure nothings wrong with it before Sunday.

Strange to have a freewheel, but nice to be able to get some speed on the downhill bits for a change.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 02 August, 2010, 09:55:13 am
Hit my first pedestrian today  :(

I wasn't going particularly fast, since I was filtering past stationary traffic, in the cycle lane on the left here (http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?hl=en&ie=UTF8&ll=51.515657,-0.099832&spn=0.001993,0.003825&z=18&layer=c&cbll=51.515699,-0.099991&panoid=4O-XqobZou79FOETURXJhg&cbp=12,270.67,,0,5).

No damage to him or myself (apart from, I'm guessing, a cracking bruise on his hip and a slightly loosened left brake lever for me).  He was very apologetic ("sorry, my fault, wasn't looking" etc.). We both managed to stay upright.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 02 August, 2010, 10:15:51 am
What is it with pedestrians who step out looking, if they look anywhere, to their left?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 02 August, 2010, 10:22:46 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 02 August, 2010, 10:15:51 am
What is it with pedestrians who step out looking, if they look anywhere, to their left?

Maybe they are FOREIGN TOURISTS.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 02 August, 2010, 10:54:11 am
A nice easy ride in turned into a bit of a chase after I took exception to the space given by a dirty great rubble truck. On a national speed limit road my only hopes were a) a long queue at the lights or b) they were going to the stadium. Neither happened, so I did a rather quick commute and am now a bit hot.  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 02 August, 2010, 10:57:59 am
Quote from: hellymedic on 02 August, 2010, 10:22:46 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 02 August, 2010, 10:15:51 am
What is it with pedestrians who step out looking, if they look anywhere, to their left?

Maybe they are FOREIGN TOURISTS.

When I'm a turrist, I look both ways as a matter of habit.  I mostly do this here too.  Very useful in Delft, for example, where the cyclists come at you from both sides.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 02 August, 2010, 12:53:02 pm
another cyclist rode up beside me and very kindly pointed out that one of my rear panniers looked as though it was trying to part company with the rack.  B---dy fiddly Ortlieb fittings.  Thankfully I happened to have the right (tiny) size Allen key with me to fix the problem, but the little bolts on their panniers seem very susceptible to working loose.

Many thanks to the guy on the mountain bike in Bermondsey, if he's reading.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 02 August, 2010, 12:56:50 pm
Quote from: hellymedic on 02 August, 2010, 10:22:46 am
Maybe they are FOREIGN TOURISTS.

The three spotty oiks who pulled this trick on me in Gravesend on Friday evening didn't look like tourists. They blithely strolled into the road, looking left, and when I yelled "Oi!" at them, purely to warn them of my presence, gave me a earful of idiomatic English of the kind only a true native could manage with such gusto.  ::-)

d.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 02 August, 2010, 01:13:42 pm
I was enjoying my ride to work when I arrived at the traffic light controlled T junction where the A4119 meets the A4119 by the Castell Mynach pub.  The lights are bagged there is a road sign diverting me towards the M4. Instead I cross the empty nearside two lane carriage way. Cross an the outer lane of the far carriageway. I stop between the bollards because the single northbound lane is very very busy.  I consider riding along the empty carriage way until I notice traffic heading towards me from Llantrisant.  I reposition my bike sideways between the bollards and wait for a gap in the traffic.  I ride down the hill and notice the lights for Miskin are also bagged.  Good this morning but could be a really big problem going home. Use alternate route 2c I think.

I resumed enjoying my ride to work.
  
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 02 August, 2010, 03:00:15 pm
@RobM - loctite FTW.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: longers on 02 August, 2010, 08:25:11 pm
On the way home tonight I rode into the back of a van. He did brake very sharply but it's entirely my fault I've got a sore elbow now. He was excellent about me hitting him as he wasn't at all worried about his van and was much more concerned about me.

Him braking coincided with me day dreaming. Idiot  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 03 August, 2010, 09:16:39 am
Saw just one Boris Bike in use this morning.  I must've seen about ten being used on my way home yesterday evening though.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 03 August, 2010, 10:03:23 am
Meh.  Encountered a slow cyclist with attitude on Battersea Bridge.  He thought he was fast and made a big show of zigzagging back and forth across the road, pumping madly while out of the saddle etc.  Took so badly to being left in the dust that he ended up jumping lights madly to compensate.  Last saw him heading the wrong way down a one-way street.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 03 August, 2010, 10:07:35 am
PB!

Did 28.71km in 56.58. First time I've gone under 57 minutes, and the first PB for ages.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 03 August, 2010, 07:17:31 pm
I have a stiff neck (must be all the brass) and I'm really struggling to turn my head to the right for traffic-checking, so I'm relying on my hearing more than usual. My ears told me there was a massive ginormous huge lorry stopping behind me at the lights. Turns out these


(http://www.tennantco.com/Image%20Library/NA/1%20%20Products/1%20%20Machines%20-%20Green%20Machines%20636/equipment-outdoor-city-cleaning-greenmachines-636.jpg)

are much louder than you'd expect.  ::-) ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: longers on 04 August, 2010, 06:17:37 am
Quote from: longers on 02 August, 2010, 08:25:11 pm
but it's entirely my fault I've got a sore elbow now.
I had 3 stitches put in it yesterday and they had a good root around to see if I'd damaged the joint capsule, the consultant thought not. It's peeing down now and needs to be kept dry. I'll have to boil in the bag today I think.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 04 August, 2010, 07:25:19 am
I've been taking the shortest route in and back so far this week.  I have been doing a lot of ground work at night and last night with my father in law, laid a large base of concrete for the summerhouse that is turning up on Friday.  Good job I have been taking it easy on the bike after my week and a bit off as I knackered all ready from all the extra curriculum stuff  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 04 August, 2010, 07:41:41 am
Quote from: hellymedic on 02 August, 2010, 10:22:46 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 02 August, 2010, 10:15:51 am
What is it with pedestrians who step out looking, if they look anywhere, to their left?

Maybe they are FOREIGN TOURISTS.

It used to happen regularly when I commuted to UCL.  People would come out of Goodge Street tube station, look left and walk into the road... and Tottenham Court Road is a one way street.  :facepalm:

99.9% of the time they'd be plugged into a diePod or on their mobile.

Twice I saw people hit by cars - and the drivers were definitely not at fault.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 August, 2010, 11:10:49 am
I'm really tired after only getting to bed at a ridiculous time in the morning.

And my bum's a bit sore :-[ after more than 200km on the honeymoon :thumbsup:

But I still managed to average 25.4kph.  Which was nice for something I'd decided would be a slow ride ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 04 August, 2010, 12:20:49 pm
I saw a deer this morning, up the top of the Blackdowns near Wellington Monument

I wasn't early or anything.  More often see them when it is more twilight at commute time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 04 August, 2010, 07:05:56 pm
Quote from: vorsprung on 04 August, 2010, 12:20:49 pm
I saw a deer this morning, up the top of the Blackdowns near Wellington Monument

I wasn't early or anything.  More often see them when it is more twilight at commute time.
I once saw one in the middle of the road on my lunchtime ride.  Near Ham Hill, not that far from you.

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 04 August, 2010, 08:03:02 pm
Apologies to the rider coming up behind who called "whoaa" as I braked a bit hard when a car I was fairly sure hadn't seen me started moving from the outside lane to the inside, where I was.
Went the long way in and out today, and missed the rain, but pushed a bit hard from one set of lights so took it easy on the resulting tender knee.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 04 August, 2010, 08:12:11 pm
I missed the rain too, thankfully.
The old fart in the black Golf only just missed me too, thankfully.
I remained Zen like.
Strong tailwind on the way home but my bloods were really low even after sucking in a gel before I left.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 04 August, 2010, 08:15:16 pm
What happened 5 minutes from home?  The heavens opened.

What happened when I got home?  It stopped raining.

*sigh*
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 August, 2010, 09:30:23 pm
Took a long way home.  Met Butterfly.  Got rained on.  Had a cup of tea.  Got home. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 04 August, 2010, 09:51:39 pm
Heavy rain all the way to work. Passed a soggy smelly badger corpse.
Heavy headwind but partly sunny all the way home. No other cyclists to overtake for the first time in a week.
Got shouted at by a chav in a chavmobile - too windy to make out what was said. Ignored it.
10 minutes longer than usual summer commute time.  :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 04 August, 2010, 09:52:48 pm
Quote from: pdm on 04 August, 2010, 09:51:39 pm
Heavy rain all the way to work. Passed a soggy smelly badger corpse.
Heavy headwind but partly sunny all the way home. No other cyclists to overtake for the first time in a week.
Got shouted at by a chav in a chavmobile - too windy to make out what was said. Ignored it.
10 minutes longer than usual summer commute time.  :P

Makes a difference, doesn't it? I get ten minutes more duvet time in the summer.  Bliss.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 05 August, 2010, 07:00:18 am
Lovely new crescent moon, followed by a glorious sunrise.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 August, 2010, 08:43:53 am
Lovely commute today.  Quite fast with slower interludes.

I got scalped by a quartet of fast lads on Upper Tooting Road, but I hauled one of them back in before Balham.  Passed loads of riders all the way, and arrived at work with a huge grin.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 05 August, 2010, 08:59:02 am
Where has all the traffic gone?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 August, 2010, 09:02:14 am
Dunno.  Gone off on holiday, I expect, but, from the number of bikes out on CS7, I would guess that a lot of the usual gridlock have left their motor cars at home and pedalled in :thumbsup:

Unprecedented numbers of bikes near Oval & Stockwell last nght. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 05 August, 2010, 09:45:37 am
As I currently regard the narrowing of a dual carriage section to single lane due to resurfacing as dangerous and unsuitable diversions (No right turn - ride a mile around a roundabout) .  I have been looking for alternative routes so last night   I decided I would go past Miskin Manor (Hotel now) so I turn into the road from Miskin village past the Cricket ground where the Manor's grounds begins.  Discover that  there is now a fence across the road to stop people doing this complete with the sign asserting private property  >:(  Probably not a right of way even though it is a direct route between Miskin and Groes Faen.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 05 August, 2010, 10:02:21 am
Waiting at the lights in the contraflow cycle lane in Vauxhall st next to the big Tesco. Kingsmill lorry (mahoosive thing) is trying to turn left into the very narrow road. Can't make it, has to back up and try again ad infinitum. By now he's made me and other cyclists miss our green phase because he's blocking the road for us and the vehicles behind him. Yes, the stupid thing is much too big for little London roads, but he appears to think this gives him the right to abuse whoever's in his way.

I get on the pavement because it seems he's not going to make it without driving over me. He still toots me because, apparently, he also wants to drive on the opposite pavement which I am now standing on with my bike (because his turning circle is so big) and I am *still* in his way.

We had a full and frank exchange of views, it must be said. People tooting me for no good reason sends me a little bit mad.

In other news, yes there is less traffic today, apart from round by Waterloo where it was so bad I got off and walked as there was no room to filter (and there is a kerb down the middle of the road).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 05 August, 2010, 10:34:21 am
Generally a pleasant ride in but with two stand-out wankers.  First one was the worst: just as the lights went green on the north side of Battersea Bridge, a prick on a white hybrid came racing down and did a skid-stop right in the middle of the group of cyclists and bikers who were just moving off, before turning left through the group.  A tall and tubby member of that group then distinguished himself by RLJing on both the Kings Road and Fulham Road, through busy traffic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 05 August, 2010, 11:27:11 am
Strong head wind from Stratford to Oxford st all the way, At Stepney green some one tried a scalp after using me as a wind break for a mile, was down on my Mtn bike handles in a TT postion and pulled away......hang your head in shame!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: dkahn400 on 05 August, 2010, 03:07:03 pm
Guy on a beautiful carbon bike and carrying a very light pack tried to draft me this morning. Fortunately he wasn't really on my wheel but hanging back about a bike length and I was able to ride him off by steadily increasing the pressure over about a mile. Just as well because I was blowing so hard by this time I couldn't have kept it up much longer.   :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 05 August, 2010, 03:35:56 pm
Quote from: clarion on 04 August, 2010, 09:30:23 pm
Took a long way home.  Met the missus Butterfly.  Got rained on.  Had a cup of tea.  Got home. :)
FTFY
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 05 August, 2010, 04:01:34 pm
For no reason other than to add some extra interest to the journey I decided to count things

On a 7.5 mile ride into the City (of London) around 7am:

4 cyclists riding through red lights, one on a pedestrian crossing
2 Borisbikes in use
27 cars/vans driving through red lights
4 male drivers using hand held mobiles, one holding it propped up on the steering wheel watching a video of some sort!

I'm sure there were lots more "interesting" things but there's a limit to the number of things I can keep in my head.


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 05 August, 2010, 07:30:05 pm
I missed the Oggy Oggy pastie van at lunchtime today, so I ventured out to the nearby Sainsburys.  As I set off, the pastie van went past, with the driver unable to indicate or change gear, as her right hand was holding a mobile phone to her ear.

So they've lost my custom for the rest of time.  Now I just need to arrange a boycott by the rest of my work colleagues.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 August, 2010, 09:39:35 am
Last night's commute was unusual.  I set off as normal, but, when I got to Clapham Common, I turned round & went back.  I hadn't forgotten anything, but met Butterfly, and we went together up to the Southwark Needle to meet with Southwark Cyclists for an Afterworker ride to the Woolwich Ferry.  Sadly, we lost a rider or two very early on (before Tower Bridge :( ), but the rest of the ride was fun.  Cobbles, absurd cyclepaths, a first try of Cycle Superhighway 3 (very different from 7), and a swift arrival at the Ferry were all features of this ride.  Last time we tried this ride, I was, for complex reasons, on my Woodrup, and I got a p*nct*re in the last couple of miles, so we missed the ferry by about thirty seconds.  I was on Marathon Plus this time, and we were all more determined. 

I like ferries, and I hadn't been across this one by bike, so it was very enjoyable.  We then started back along the south bank of the river, where the route is appalling.

Most of the group stopped at the Anchor & Hope for a quick drink, but we pressed on.  Unfortunately, we hadn't got a map.  Fortunately, this wouldn't have mattered a bit, because the path round the Dome is very different from last time we came through, and is Rubbish.

Eventually, after being brought in a big loop, we decided to head for greenwich, where we got a train home (well, to Croydon).  45km for the ride home in all.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 August, 2010, 09:40:31 am
This morning's commute was also with Butterfly.  I need her to stoke.  Did I not mention we're on the tandem today? ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 06 August, 2010, 09:47:41 am
You two seem to spend a lot of time together.Have you considered marriage?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 06 August, 2010, 10:05:11 am
Fastest ever ride in on the fixie ever and I didn't even notice.  Didn't feel as if I was racing in.  I think it's now at the point where the run (or not) of traffic lights is more significant than anything else.

Having adjusted my seat position yet again, no discomfort in the right knee at all.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul D on 06 August, 2010, 10:46:21 am
Long time since I've posted on this thread - too many audax miles at the weekends has generally meant car commuting during the week.

All that's behind me for this year though, and reopened my account today with my first ever offroad commute. Big grins. 12 of 19 miles offroad, including a few cheeky trails (no problems at 7am). Quite a bit of the Jubilee Trail between Winterborne Kingston and Moreton via Bere Regis and Briantspuddle.

I love Dorset. Somedays I nearly burst with how pleased I am I don't live in London. :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 06 August, 2010, 10:50:48 am
Quote from: Paul D on 06 August, 2010, 10:46:21 am
I love Dorset. Somedays I nearly burst with how pleased I am I don't live in London. :demon:

LOL, I'm sure your commute is paradise, but then so's riding in London.   :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 August, 2010, 10:53:55 am
Quote from: jogler on 06 August, 2010, 09:47:41 am
You two seem to spend a lot of time together.Have you considered marriage?

It's an idea ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 06 August, 2010, 11:17:12 am
Quote from: Paul D on 06 August, 2010, 10:46:21 am
reopened my account today with my first ever offroad commute. Big grins. 12 of 19 miles offroad, including a few cheeky trails (no problems at 7am).

Nice. I like the sound of that. I'd quite fancy a little bit of offroad commuting just for an excuse to use my CX bike for something resembling the purpose for which it was designed.

What bike do you use for your offroad commute? And do you intend to keep this up over winter?

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 06 August, 2010, 03:12:13 pm
Quote from: clarion on 06 August, 2010, 10:53:55 am
Quote from: jogler on 06 August, 2010, 09:47:41 am
You two seem to spend a lot of time together.Have you considered marriage?

It's an idea ;)

not too concise,would you like to ClariFly ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 06 August, 2010, 09:55:43 pm
On the commute today two children looked before walking out between parked cars and gave me a cheery "hello"  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 06 August, 2010, 11:51:28 pm
Another fast, un-trafficy ride tonight.  long may the holiday season continue.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 07 August, 2010, 09:29:09 am
No work today wooooohooooo ! ;D No 7 mile bike ride to work Dooooooooh ! :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 07 August, 2010, 10:51:49 am
Interesting sight on the home leg last evening - saw a squashed squirrel, but not just any squashed squirrel. It looked like one of those cartoon characters that have just been done over by a cartoon steamroller - lying on its side,  a perfect squirrel shape but paper flat! No gory bits at all.
2h05 for the 35 miles - not bad, but I really must get rid of some lard to get up those hills more quickly...  >:(
No more commuting for a week or so, on leave and no cycling trips planned. Clarion can surge ahead on BJ now if he wants!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 07 August, 2010, 01:08:36 pm
On the commute yesterday, I was sexually harassed.

I was just parking the bike outside Vivat Bacchus on Farringdon road, when a slightly squiffy blond trotted out the door and, as she passed me, slapped my lycra-clad butt.  She then ran round the corner and hid, before coming shame-facedly back and giggling on my shoulder about what a bad girl she was.

Cheered me up after a crap week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 07 August, 2010, 01:17:50 pm
You DID get her details phone #.Don't say you didn't.
Damnit:her details too ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul D on 08 August, 2010, 06:32:41 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 06 August, 2010, 11:17:12 am
Quote from: Paul D on 06 August, 2010, 10:46:21 am
reopened my account today with my first ever offroad commute. Big grins. 12 of 19 miles offroad, including a few cheeky trails (no problems at 7am).

Nice. I like the sound of that. I'd quite fancy a little bit of offroad commuting just for an excuse to use my CX bike for something resembling the purpose for which it was designed.

What bike do you use for your offroad commute? And do you intend to keep this up over winter?

d.

-Bad mobile phone picture on Friday morning-
(http://i292.photobucket.com/albums/mm30/Dyffers/InbredatMoretonAug2010.jpg)

Just been building my first 'proper' MTB up in order to do something different to audaxing.

I doubt I'll keep it up much when the weather is rubbish - don't like getting that filthy! - but hopefully I'll do it once a week or at least once every other week. It's going to take me a few months to work out a completely offroad commute - at the moment my road commute is 16 miles and on froday evening I did 24 miles in 2 1/2 hours due to backtracking when trails/farm tracks became impassable or disused quaries turned out to be not so disused. Loadsa fun though.

Pretty much everything I did would be CX-able, on which the road parts would be quicker too I guess (a 2:1 SS gear ratio is rubbish for making progress on tarmac - spin like a lunatic to do 20mph).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 09 August, 2010, 07:42:39 am
Harvest is well under way; as indicated by the increased number (and diameter) of rattus flattus.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 09 August, 2010, 08:46:20 am
Did the full monte to day....Witham to oxford st London.
Did 51 miles due to a wrong turn in great baddow.....can any one beat that  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 09 August, 2010, 09:30:29 am
Chapeau.

What will be really impressive is if you do it there and back. Every day for a week. ;)

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 09 August, 2010, 10:46:37 am
Bloody cyclists!!

First commute in a month and 3 near misses all from other cyclists. Then I had to queue for a shower. I guess teh summer cyclists are out in force!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 09 August, 2010, 11:22:01 am
Don't think my boss or Mrs Andyf would like that .
I was nearly 1 hour late for work ( should be in by 7:30am, as i left 15 mins later than planned and didn't take into account all the traffic light stops, Iam allso just not fit enogh yet to do that :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 09 August, 2010, 11:31:23 am
Top mileage.  You best join Bikejournal and add your miles to our total for the club.
At this rate with a few more on board we may even be able to take on the Americans.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 10 August, 2010, 08:29:03 am
I like rain.  Just as well.  Slightly slower commute in,  not surprisingly: 45 minutes rather than 36 or so.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 10 August, 2010, 08:42:09 am
I bit damp this morning.  Really must put that rear mudguard back on the bike...
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 10 August, 2010, 08:57:31 am
I was feeling smug about mine every time I overtook someone with a stripe!  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 August, 2010, 08:58:05 am
Moist.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 10 August, 2010, 09:05:13 am
Thank god for my Altura nightvision jacket..................i just wish i had bloody worn it :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 10 August, 2010, 09:18:28 am
I HEART my mudguards
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: darkpoint on 10 August, 2010, 09:35:14 am
As with many others I got very wet this morning.   The interesting part of my ride was when I turned left from Eldon St into Wilson St,  it is a corner with a raised section of cobbles that has been badly repaired.
As I turned my rear end slid out by a good 2 feet, fortunately I manned to hold the bike upright and carry on.
No idea quite how I did it thought.  Still impressed with my skillz.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wascally Weasel on 10 August, 2010, 09:37:37 am
Well, as it wasn’t that cold I just decided to get wet (my only concession to the weather was to put my armwarmers on).  After the first ten minutes I wasn’t really going to get any wetter and had an ok ride.  There wasn’t much traffic about, cyclist or motorised (I think I only saw four other riders going through Richmond Park).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 10 August, 2010, 10:05:40 am
I've struggled to find a space on the sheffield stands in the office bike shed recently.

Not so today ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 10 August, 2010, 10:06:43 am
ok, so I was ten minutes early today but there were only two other bikes in the racks this morning! Last week they were full. It's not raining that hard and it's not cold. Wimps the lot of them!
S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 10 August, 2010, 01:07:47 pm
I got wet, very wet. So wet that I don't think my shoes will dry out, even stuffed with newspaper and sitting on top of an air conditioning vent.

It was fun  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 10 August, 2010, 01:27:42 pm
Quote from: RobM on 10 August, 2010, 01:07:47 pm
So wet that I don't think my shoes will dry out, even stuffed with newspaper and sitting on top of an air conditioning vent.


*looks next to desk*  Yep, my sandals are dry.  :smug:
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 10 August, 2010, 06:38:29 pm
Someone shouted something unintelligible at me as they overtook, sort of a "Ooohaaagghwurrrggh" noise.

Reminded me of this:

A Hundred and One Wankers (http://101wankers.tumblr.com/)


Our first wanker was angry that a bicycle was on the road.

 He hit his horn whilst behind me, whilst I was waiting in the cycle box at the traffic lights. As he turned at the junction alongside me, he continued to use his horn. At the next traffic lights, he rolled his window down to shout

“You stupid fxxxxng slut, get off the road and onto the pavement, you stupid bxxxh”.

 He was in his company vehicle, so rather than rise to his bait, I took my iPhone out and openly took a photo of his registration plate. For some reason this shut him up.

The company in question is Cannon Hygiene.

 I’ve written to them to tell them about their driver, and will update if they get back to me.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 10 August, 2010, 10:44:57 pm
Cycled home late, tonight, after meeting friends.  Call me weird, but cycling home in the dark, on damp streets after the rain, was very enjoyable.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 10 August, 2010, 10:48:30 pm
as you wish..
you are weird itsbruce
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wascally Weasel on 10 August, 2010, 11:14:54 pm
I got abused by vuvezela this evening riding down Priory Lane.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 10 August, 2010, 11:46:53 pm
Quote from: Wascally Weasel on 10 August, 2010, 11:14:54 pm
I got abused by vuvezela this evening riding down Priory Lane.

Bastards.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 10 August, 2010, 11:47:42 pm
I followed a bus down Coldhams Lane at about 44kph.

Then it started raining, and I locked my back wheel stopping at a mini roundabout because of a u-turning car.

18 minutes 7s - one of my fastest commutes this year.

Went home the long way, via Haslingfield.  29.9km @ 25.8kph.  Chatted to a horsey woman on a mountain bike at the level crossing @ Little Shelford.  Rode up most of Lime Kiln Hill sat down at 28kph.  Then puff ran out and the final bit was a tad slower.  Recovered on the way down the other side.

"I'm back, baby!" </frank_costanza>
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 11 August, 2010, 07:16:43 am
Well it was very pretty what with the mist and the sunrise and all that bucolic charm but it was a little chilly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 August, 2010, 08:50:42 am
Coo, sometimes, just sometimes, the lights work the right way and let me go through.  That's not to say I wasn't stopped.  I was.  Enough times that I can't count them.  But it was a smooth, flowy ride and the dickheads in boxes were few enough that it was good.

Had a cracking ride home last night, too.  I met up with Butterfly, and we rode to Kings Cross to try to sort out a tricky trains issue (they couldn't help us at KX, ftr).  Then rode home, winding through the streets of Londinium.

We stopped at the tea van on Clapham Common, played with a dog, had tea, then rode on home.  Wet, intermittently, windy too sometimes.  But fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MikeFromLFE on 11 August, 2010, 10:06:25 am
Very pleasant ride in this morning - sun glinting off the River Soar as I went through Abbey Park (Leicester) - considerate (!) Motons on Dysart Way (which *is* the Road to Hell of Rea fame on this ride) - sat in the sun at Krustys Cafe, on Uppingham Road, with a cup of tea watching the traffic go by, before heading up that bl**dy hill to this pit.
 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wascally Weasel on 11 August, 2010, 10:20:06 am
This morning, close to work and just about to set off from the lights at Victoria Street there was a kind of *crack*  *spiiiiiiin* and I thought I had had a Shleck moment.  On looking down and attempting to adjust my (now absent) chain, I realised it was more of a David Millar moment.

That chain and the rear cassette have been horribly worn for while, I have been trying to get as many miles out of them as I can.  This might be a sign that it’s time to get a new chain *sigh*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 11 August, 2010, 10:41:40 am
Could of killed myself today.  On my commute I arrive at a tee junction with dual carriageway that is being resurfaced. I turn right here then left into another road.  I ignore the temporary no right turn sign and cross the road.  Until now they had been resurfacing the lane nearest to me. In the mornings the next lane had South bound traffic and the outer lane of the North bound carriage way is also South bound. So I used to cross XS-SN in the morning and  in the evening when there are two North bound lanes NN-SX.  This morning I arrived at the junction at a quiet period when nothing was crossing S in front of me.  I noticed that the nearside was fully resurfaced and rolled out onto it and stopped and looked right when I noticed that I was stopped across an open lane with an HGV baring down on me.  SX-SN, This evening I expect NN-XS.  May use pavement as narrowed single lane does not appeal to me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: dkahn400 on 11 August, 2010, 03:50:47 pm
Quote from: jogler on 10 August, 2010, 10:48:30 pm
as you wish..
you are weird itsbruce

No, I'm with itsbruce. Nice atmosphere.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 11 August, 2010, 09:27:56 pm
A nice peaceful few days until today* when a nice person in a large Conway tipper truck decided they'd been called to some kind of dump truck emergency and came roaring up behind me as I prepared to scoot by a few parked private hire vehicles just after Clockhouse Station. Noting that the driver still had their foot to the floor and the engine was furiously buzzing like a Doppler-shifted house-sized bee on a 12000cc motorbike I let discretion persuade valour to take the day off and baled out behind the first taxi with a distinct lack of panache and significantly less brake block than I had a few moments before. Given that there was oncoming traffic, I suspect that any continuance of my trajectory around the three parked cars would have resulted in a underwear-endangering event and possibly the loss of one or more of my three dimensions.

I'm not sure if the driver simply didn't see me or was a bellicose idiot. Neither is reassuring for the driver of a vehicle that substantial. I have verified that I am indeed not blessed with the gift of invisibility (on second thoughts, I should have established this with a mirror before I ventured into the women's changing rooms).

Before anyone asks, I wasn't lurking in the gutter like the chewed remains of a McD meal, I was already in primary position as the gathering of motorized fauna around the taxi office is a given. The rail bridge by the station is shallow and anyone in a truck cab would have excellent visibility of the road ahead. Given the grim statistics for such vehicles and their interactions with cyclists you'd think an organization like this would have stressed safety and courtesy to their drivers. Managing Director of FM Conway, I do believe you have mail. I apologize if it jabs you in the eyes.

*I did forget the interaction with a car passenger a few weeks back - the usual same old story: approaching a junction with a main road, me following a car in front with about twenty metres of gap, another car behind. Single lane traffic, so no real room to overtake. Beep. Beep. Beeeeeeep. There's nowhere to go in front of me even if the car can squeeze by, so whatever, go crank up your blood pressure. The car had just pulled out from a house about 75 metres from the from the junction so it's not like I had been holding it up. A few seconds later we all arrive at the junction behind the first car and the usual melody of random abuse drifts over from the car (a Jaguar, the evident pater noster of the Bromley chav wagon family tree). I've no idea really and I generally can't be bothered arguing with living and breathing refutations of Intelligent Design but we were stuck waiting for a gap in traffic and to be honest, I was minded that they'd do something stupid when we did pull out, so I reasonably pointed out why I was in the middle of the road. In doing so I noted a lady was doing the driving and seemed to having none of it, and belligerent was actually the passenger, a typical wild specimen of a male Homo throbbingtemplicus. Anyway, another chorus of abuse followed. I do try and usually succeed with the zen thing while cycling but sometimes, well, sometimes even the mightiest effort just isn't enough. Let's just say he didn't appreciate my references to Chewbacca (or for that matter my assertion that he might have been a 'hairy assed monkey fucker') and I will plead guilty to a momentary bit of pavement cycling. I expect the real Chewbacca, in his day, had a bit more fire in his legs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 11 August, 2010, 09:59:41 pm
Quote from: ian on 11 August, 2010, 09:27:56 pm
Before anyone asks, I wasn't lurking in the gutter like the chewed remains of a McD meal, I was already in primary position as the gathering of motorized fauna around the taxi office is a given. The rail bridge by the station is shallow and anyone in a truck cab would have excellent visibility of the road ahead.

I know the place you mean very well as I use that route often. Tbh, I'm amazed the truck was able to get up any speed - usually when I'm passing through, the road is chockablock with traffic. And I know what you mean about the taxis parked along the road there - I'm usually well out towards the middle of the road by the time I go over the bridge. But I have had a bus pull a similar stunt on me along that stretch of road, so I find it easy to believe that it wasn't your road positioning at fault.

I think the problem is really that the road isn't a consistent width - you get wider bits, even as wide as two lanes in places, but very narrow at other points, eg that bridge, but the truck and bus drivers still treat it like a dual carriageway for its entire length.

Quote
Let's just say he didn't appreciate my references to Chewbacca (or for that matter my assertion that he might have been a 'hairy assed monkey fucker') and I will plead guilty to a momentary bit of pavement cycling. I expect the real Chewbacca, in his day, had a bit more fire in his legs.

ROFL.  ;D

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 12 August, 2010, 08:49:40 am
Took the single speed instead of the Peregrine this morning. I'd forgotten how much fun that bike is!! 9 minutes faster! A combination of quieter roads, lighter bike and thinner tyres. Amazing how much difference that makes!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 12 August, 2010, 08:57:50 am
Stayed in Streatham last night, so my commute in was via Bedford Hill.  For the first time I had a taste of what it's like commuting in on the cycle highway (the strip between Bedford Hill and The Avenue, anyway).  Pleasant little route, although a bit cramped with slow cyclists, none of whom seemed to have any legs when it came to Balham Hill and may have been a little puzzled to be passed by a quietly grumbling cyclist with what appeared to be a windsock on his head (one of those Hi-Viz Buff scarf things that I had adapted as a bandana, only for it to come slightly unravelled).

Overall, a more pleasant route than my usual.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Christophe on 12 August, 2010, 09:08:57 am
Competion for the longest commute by the Witham contingent hots up. Further to Andy's commute of 51 miles the other morning I rode home last night.
Hyde Park Corner to Witham with detour over North Hill in Little Baddow to make the commute 104km on the return leg. 112km total for the day. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 12 August, 2010, 09:19:52 am
Quote from: Christophe on 12 August, 2010, 09:08:57 am
Competion for the longest commute by the Witham contingent hots up. Further to Andy's commute of 51 miles the other morning I rode home last night.
Hyde Park Corner to Witham with detour over North Hill in Little Baddow to make the commute 104km on the return leg. 112km total for the day. :thumbsup:

 :thumbsup:

I didn't realise this was a competition ;)
/me scratches head and thinks about a 200km route home with DIY-audax friendly control points...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 August, 2010, 09:58:54 am
I've managed two homeward legs in a row of more than twice the usual distance.  45km home tuesday, and 40km last night.  Splendid.

Btw, I am not looking at the Met Office website today, lest I find that I have not gained another superpower, but that there was a tailwind.

Can't be.  Such things do not exist.  Tailwinds, I mean, not superpowers.  Of course they're real ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 12 August, 2010, 11:01:10 am
Hangover.  Wet.  Montane featherlite p.o.s.

EOM.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 12 August, 2010, 11:04:47 am
Has any one commuted bothways in one day from Mid-essex to London i.e. Witham- london-london-Witham......and if not, have we any contenders for the title!!??
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 12 August, 2010, 11:21:09 am
Quote from: simonp on 12 August, 2010, 11:01:10 am
Hangover.  Wet.  Montane featherlite p.o.s.

EOM.


Not too good sadly.  I just replaced mine with an Endura Equipe Helium.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 12 August, 2010, 11:55:56 am
To the village.
no hangover
Montane Featherlite.mutts nutts
YMMV
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 12 August, 2010, 12:04:29 pm
Rode into the London office today. Saw matthew going the other way on the A30 near Sunningdale, had the excitement of the A30/M25 roundabout (always a joy!), then got held up by the road closure of the A315 in Brentford (http://news.bbc.co.uk/local/london/hi/people_and_places/newsid_8908000/8908315.stm). There's a burst water main there, which the nice policeman said was possible to wade through but it'd be up to my knees. Deciding to avoid the triathlon training option of swimming through it I took the diversion. Looking back at the closure, there was one car in at least a foot of water (up to the bumper - picture three in the link above).

Still got into the office in 2 hours 10 minutes for 59.8km, so averaged 27.6km/h; not too shabby on the pannier laden audax bike  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 12 August, 2010, 01:00:54 pm
Saw MattH this morning, no other commuter, that I see, is on Tri bars. I was caught in Bagshot by another commuter and then drafted him the whole way to Frimley. I simply can't drive the cadence required to keep that pace (23mph/125rpm) on the front but can spin it when tucked in behind.

MattH, advice from a local: When travelling into London, at the end of the A30 Egham bypass (dual carriageway past the Ferrari garage) take the third exit and go through Staines town centre rather than the A30 bypass. Turning left over staines bridge and later through the pedestrianised bit of town. This saves crossing the 5 lanes of traffic, including those exiting the M25 into the righthand two lanes, to do the right turn onto the A30 at the middle of the Staines Bypass. On the way oout of London the Staines bypass is fine though the drivers will not expect you to be on the 270 deg decending spiral at the Egham end.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 12 August, 2010, 01:15:30 pm
Thanks - that is the way I go in, then after Staines take the slightly longer route through Ashford and Feltham to join the A315 rather than straight back onto the A30 after Staines. Looking at my post I can see that I wasn't clear on the roundabout  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Christophe on 12 August, 2010, 01:47:07 pm
Quote from: Andyf on 12 August, 2010, 11:04:47 am
Has any one commuted bothways in one day from Mid-essex to London i.e. Witham- london-london-Witham......and if not, have we any contenders for the title!!??

I'll be up for that . Only problem would be the 5am start. On holiday for two weeks from next week but might contemplate the first week of September?
Oaky's suggestion of an after work DIY 200km might also be a Friday night option. Detour via Sudbury perhaps?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 12 August, 2010, 02:07:52 pm
Quote from: Andyf on 12 August, 2010, 11:04:47 am
Has any one commuted bothways in one day from Mid-essex to London i.e. Witham- london-london-Witham......and if not, have we any contenders for the title!!??

Many (too many) years ago I used to ride in regularly, at least during the summer, from Leigh on Sea to Soho and back.  I didn't have a computer but I guess it was about 30-35 miles each way.  I imagine Witham is a longer run though and even less fun if you're on the main road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Christophe on 12 August, 2010, 03:15:45 pm

/me scratches head and thinks about a 200km route home with DIY-audax friendly control points...
[/quote]

Obviously busy at work. Using familiar territory the rout could go somewhat like this using ATM/ shop controls in main towns.

Starting at Liverpool St - Epping - Gt Dunmow - Saffron Walden - Newmarket - Bury St Edmunds - Sudbury - Witham.

Might need a little tweaking but using Google Maps comes in at 201km
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 12 August, 2010, 03:34:25 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 11 August, 2010, 09:59:41 pm
Before anyone asks, I wasn't lurking in the gutter like the chewed remains of a McD meal, I was already in primary position as the gathering of motorized fauna around the taxi office is a given. The rail bridge by the station is shallow and anyone in a truck cab would have excellent visibility of the road ahead.

It is usually quite busy along there, but there was for once a gap ahead from Clockhouse Station to just before the Birkbeck / Beckenham Junction tram/train bridge which I assume the driver was trying to fill (the traffic can be a bit lumpy as most people aren't sure of the speed limit, so some people do 30, others 40, and the rest whatever they can get away with). Most troubling to be honest was that the driver was continuing to accelerate even on the downside of the bridge. He was really flooring it.

(Pure speculation, but there was another cyclist some way behind me, and I do wonder if the driver had been 'held up' behind them - the road from the Beckenham roundabout is quite narrow and doesn't open up until just before the bridge, and I was the victim of the driver's consequent frustration.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: dkahn400 on 12 August, 2010, 04:44:33 pm
Quote from: MattH on 12 August, 2010, 12:04:29 pm
Rode into the London office today. Saw matthew going the other way on the A30 near Sunningdale, had the excitement of the A30/M25 roundabout (always a joy!), then got held up by the road closure of the A315 in Brentford (http://news.bbc.co.uk/local/london/hi/people_and_places/newsid_8908000/8908315.stm). There's a burst water main there, which the nice policeman said was possible to wade through but it'd be up to my knees. Deciding to avoid the triathlon training option of swimming through it I took the diversion. Looking back at the closure, there was one car in at least a foot of water (up to the bumper - picture three in the link above).

Still got into the office in 2 hours 10 minutes for 59.8km, so averaged 27.6km/h; not too shabby on the pannier laden audax bike  :)

This would explain why the mains water pressure was a bit low this morning. By sheer chance I seem to have avoided the flood on the way to Brentford by taking a route through Old Isleworth, then through Syon Park and along the canal tow path.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 16 August, 2010, 09:54:51 am
Ah, a headwind. Just what you need of a Monday morning...

Hope the bugger doesn't turn around!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 16 August, 2010, 10:02:39 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 16 August, 2010, 09:54:51 am
Ah, a headwind. Just what you need of a Monday morning...

Hope the bugger doesn't turn around!

I need all the training I can get!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 16 August, 2010, 10:03:03 am
According to MetOffice I should have had a cross-wind.  Well, the wind may well have been cross — it spent most of the time blowing in my face and gusting from unexpected directions.  Yet somehow I managed to set a pb for the ride in.  ???

I've decided to give up on checking the wind strength and direction as forecasts and reality often have nothing in common.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 August, 2010, 10:03:58 am
I was fortunate enough to have it as a vicious crosswind.

However, when you go home, NSTN, you will have a tailwind.  I will have a vicious crosswind ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 16 August, 2010, 10:13:29 am
Stiff headwind all the way for me, with some very strong gusts. About 20% slower than my PB. Enjoyed it, though.  :thumbsup:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 16 August, 2010, 10:16:40 am
A sad first this morning.  Grey Heron road kill at Ampney St. Peter
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 16 August, 2010, 10:35:05 am
It was pretty much a headwind for me, so I'm surprised that it was a headwind for NSTN, I would have thought that it was more of a crosswind for her.  Looking at the current weather for LGW and LHR, they both have between 10 and 15mph NNW winds.  It will, of course, swap around by going home time.

A headwind didn't help my cycling in after taking a few weeks off.  I wanted to rest up my knee which has been twinging since the last FNRttC.  It's amazing how a couple of weeks off of commuting can ruin your form. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 16 August, 2010, 11:03:31 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 16 August, 2010, 09:54:51 am
Ah, a headwind. Just what you need of a Monday morning...

Hope the bugger doesn't turn around!

+1

Especially after riding 232km yesterday in the same wind.  :hand:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 16 August, 2010, 11:15:05 am
Succession of friendly and helpful motorists on the way in, which compensated for the unusual number of cyclists moving at an unvarying snail's pace and never pausing for a single red light (I find them even more annoying than the regular RLJers, for some reason).

Didn't like the headwind but was suprised to discover it only added a couple of minutes to my time in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 16 August, 2010, 01:08:38 pm
A headwind may only add a couple of minutes to a half hour commute; shame each minute feels like half an hour...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 16 August, 2010, 01:11:07 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 16 August, 2010, 11:15:05 am
Didn't like the headwind but was suprised to discover it only added a couple of minutes to my time in.

You were riding fixed, I presume? With a headwind, I find it easier to maintain a steady pace on fixed. With multiple gears, it's too tempting just to select a lower gear and twiddle. Better not to give yourself that option, I find.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 16 August, 2010, 01:22:22 pm
Ground my way in, into the wind for some of it.  Seemed to be fewer bikes around than usual, maybe because it was such a grey morning.  Encountered a couple of exampkles of very thoughtful and considerate driving, one from a blue transit - Masher Builders or similar - the other from a pick-up truck that held back at a small roundabout so that I could go straight across. That kind of thing just makes for a more pleasant ride in.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 16 August, 2010, 02:03:54 pm
No headwind for me this morning....  :thumbsup:





I drove in as I have a meeting later :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 16 August, 2010, 02:05:25 pm
Tea with JJ thanks to spotting mrsJJ go flying past me. Very nice to meet up, finally.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 16 August, 2010, 08:43:38 pm
Quote from: simonp on 16 August, 2010, 11:03:31 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 16 August, 2010, 09:54:51 am
Ah, a headwind. Just what you need of a Monday morning...

Hope the bugger doesn't turn around!

+1

Especially after riding 232km yesterday in the same wind.  :hand:

+1, but I'm definitely with citoyen on the fixed theory. Headwinds bother me much less on the fixie. You have to man up and JFDI.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 16 August, 2010, 08:51:35 pm
On the way home I saw a Clash of the MAMILs.  While stopped at the lights at the junction of Old Brompton Road and Bina Gardens, a MAMIL on a very expensive carbon bike drifted past me and across the road towards Drayton Gardens.  His eccentric course meant he nearly slammed into the side of another MAMIL who was legitimately turning right onto Drayton Gardens, who wasn't slowing down for any RLJer but who was loud and creative with the verbal abuse.  The lights changed, I overtook the RLJer (who was making a big deal out of not much speed) and caught his near victim on the lights.

"Saw that happening", I said.
"Yup.  Stupidest thing you can do on a bike", says he.

At this point, the RLJer arrives behind us.  "Sorry: stupidest thing I've done in a long time".
His victim makes polite noises about "We all do it at some point" and then goes "Oh, is that a Look?  That's why I noticed you..."

So I left them both well behind when the lights changed.  Very competitive of me, but I'm riding a cheap steel fixie, so I surely can't be a MAMIL.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 16 August, 2010, 09:04:21 pm
Quote from: boab on 16 August, 2010, 08:43:38 pm
Quote from: simonp on 16 August, 2010, 11:03:31 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 16 August, 2010, 09:54:51 am
Ah, a headwind. Just what you need of a Monday morning...

Hope the bugger doesn't turn around!

+1

Especially after riding 232km yesterday in the same wind.  :hand:

+1, but I'm definitely with citoyen on the fixed theory. Headwinds bother me much less on the fixie. You have to man up and JFDI.

Perhaps the feeling crap for most of yesterday's ride, the having to stop due to cramps every few hundred yards on the way back home after leaving DrMekon, being late for work, and still feeling off-colour today, may have contributed to my somewhat reduced tolerance for the head wind.

BTW: I ride to work on fixed.  I was maintaining about 15mph into the headwind.  This was about 5mph faster than we were going on gears into the headwind yesterday.

So yes, I just did it, but I was more than usually unhappy about it.

/gets on with some work.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 16 August, 2010, 09:44:41 pm
Wind, what wind?   ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 16 August, 2010, 09:50:44 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 16 August, 2010, 09:44:41 pm
Wind, what wind?   ;)

Did you not see what I said about cramps?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Crock of Gold on 16 August, 2010, 10:30:54 pm
What's a MAMIL?

Apologies but thought I'd invade here as Cycle Chat is down.

Was a bit strange weathery today. Hot, cold, humid, sunny, overcast, dry. All in one go.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 August, 2010, 10:35:46 pm
Faster riding than I expected this evening.  And I was unexpectedly met by Butterfly who had ridden out to meet me.

Quite fun passing all the motorists queueing through town now Hackbridge bridge is closed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 16 August, 2010, 10:44:45 pm
After this morning's tough (but fast ???) ride to work, I've had a lovely bit of post work riding.

Went to the Bike Whisperers (Ealing) for a post-fitting adjustment.  Some bits of the Embankment have been resurfaced, including having bike lanes painted — some of them have a solid line!  A4 to Hammersmith then King Street to Chiswick.  That bit was lovely and quiet — I must use it more often.  Then around the Chiswick roundabout and up the North Circular.  That would have been good fun if I didn't have to slow down for the cars.  Must find a reason to cycle more of the A406, just 'because'.

Once the fitting session was over decided to cycle the whole way back.  Brilliant!  Hit most of the lights on green, traffic was light, often moved around 35mph (me, not the traffic). I love what they've done with my bike.  :thumbsup:

All together: 66.7km for the day.  ;D
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 August, 2010, 10:45:59 pm
That sounds like fun. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: dkahn400 on 16 August, 2010, 11:39:44 pm
Quote from: Crock of Gold on 16 August, 2010, 10:30:54 pm

What's a MAMIL?


Middle Aged Male in Lycra.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 17 August, 2010, 12:18:16 am
Quote from: Crock of Gold on 16 August, 2010, 10:30:54 pm
What's a MAMIL?



A crap acronym made up by a lazy hack whose editor has asked them to write something about cycling.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 17 August, 2010, 03:43:35 am
Oh come on, I thought it was a rather good and funny article. Some insight too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 17 August, 2010, 05:46:39 am
I had a lovely ride to Salisbury yesterday for work.  I enjoyed using NCN route 45 and it was very very pretty.  It was quite windy in places but by hugging the river I was able to avoid the worst effects.
I even waved to Sting as I went passed his house.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 August, 2010, 08:55:55 am
Very tired this morning, but still made a decent ride.  I think I missed the worst of the wind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 17 August, 2010, 09:00:02 am
Can one have Friday legs on Tuesday?  Last night's ride may have been a contributing factor.

Anyway, wind wasn't bad, missed the rain, and the roads were pretty much empty.  All in all a good morning on the bike.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hulver on 17 August, 2010, 09:35:39 am
Back on the fixed today, pushing the larger gear. It's nice what a difference it makes on the flat. Quite a quick run in (for me).

Stuffed too much in my bag (for a change), so quite heavy at the back end. Still quicker up hills than gears though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 17 August, 2010, 10:01:33 am
Riding home last night, approaching a long row of parked cars on the opposite side (the section in Shelford made famous by Reg's recent altercation) with a car heading towards me on my side. I slow to let them through, only to hear a van roaring up behind me. I signal right and take the primary position, only for them to come flying past anyway, cut back on our side hard, only to find himself going head to head with the oncoming car. Oncoming car bottled it and squeezed over, van mounted curb and squuezed by. Later, I pass him coming out another junction, and he shouted something like "aahmucherooomdoyoofarkingneed", to which I gestured to come over and shouted "I can't hear, but I'm really interested". He started to repeat himself, but I rode on.

This morning, I spun in slowly, trying to save my legs for my first ride with the local Clarion CC section. By the time I meet up with them tonight, my legs will have done 350km in the last 3 days, so I suspect my comments to the sootbike owning secretary that I didn't see the point in blingy carbon bikes if you aren't racing may come back to haunt me. :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 17 August, 2010, 02:06:22 pm
Took the long route to work up the A38 all the way.  I have been in Holland all last week, I need a bit of A road

Average speed 29.9kph
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: dkahn400 on 17 August, 2010, 04:56:02 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 17 August, 2010, 12:18:16 am
Quote from: Crock of Gold on 16 August, 2010, 10:30:54 pm
What's a MAMIL?



A crap acronym made up by a lazy hack whose editor has asked them to write something about cycling.



That too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 17 August, 2010, 07:19:01 pm
It was foggy enough to want lights and bright clothes this evening. First time in ages. I broke the rear light fitting so used a bungee to strap it to the rack and the front has fairly flat batteries. I'm supposed to be decorating not fettling tonight.  ::-)  Nice enough ride, and a quick chat as I passed someone on Elm Grove (not often I get to say that).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 17 August, 2010, 07:28:54 pm
Quote from: perpetual dan on 17 August, 2010, 07:19:01 pm
It was foggy enough to want lights and bright clothes this evening. ...

Peers out the window at the sunshine. :-\ ???

I didn't think Brighton was that far away from London...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 17 August, 2010, 09:21:51 pm
Got a puncture on the way home.  I was enjoying the tailwind and did again after I'd changed the tube.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 17 August, 2010, 10:45:46 pm
Quote from: TimO on 17 August, 2010, 07:28:54 pm
Quote from: perpetual dan on 17 August, 2010, 07:19:01 pm
It was foggy enough to want lights and bright clothes this evening. ...

Peers out the window at the sunshine. :-\ ???

I didn't think Brighton was that far away from London...

That's what comes of living on a hill beside the sea. On the bright side I worked late enough to avoid the rain.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 17 August, 2010, 10:52:01 pm
Rather surprisingly I noticed that along Chelsea Bridge Road (http://maps.google.co.uk/?ie=UTF8&ll=51.48777,-0.152886&spn=0.004463,0.017166&z=16) they've actually gone to the effort of removing the mandatory cycle lane.  I'm not sure it'll make a great deal of difference, but as cycle lanes go I don't think it was a bad one, since it didn't make things worse.  I'm not sure why they have bothered to do this, since the road was actually wide enough to easily have enough room for the cycle lanes and the road, without any problem, but it's not wide enough for cars to overtake or for more than one lane each way to exist.

It doesn't seem to have made things better for anyone, but it's cost the council a days worth of pay for several guys to burn the markings off.

They have left in the most southerly bit between the junctions with Ebury Bridge Road and Chelsea Embankment, which is utterly useless, since at peak times you can hardly use it for all the cars backed up from the junction at the bridge, and outside of peak times you can't use it because of all the cars legally parked in it. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 17 August, 2010, 11:08:50 pm
My commute home was interrupted early on by a stop at the gym.  An hour later, I had a very pleasant trip almost all the way home, only to stop again at the Priory Arms, where a Lambeth Cyclists meeting was in progress.  At which I encountered Speshact, of this parish.

Very pleasant commute, even if it did take four hours and forty minutes, including interruptions.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 August, 2010, 09:17:17 am
Nice ride in this morning.  Started fairly slowly but built up.  There were a lot of fast riders about this morning, and I had to push to keep up with the leaders. 

Counting overtakes, I've found that there are generally about two riders per commute who overtake and I can't catch* (three this morning).  Counts are:

Home via CS7: +25
Home via Streatham: +18 (fewer cyclists)
In this morning via CS7: +21

* all overtakes disregarded if a red light jump immediately follows
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 18 August, 2010, 09:35:28 am
This morning I was nearly crushed by a woman in a silver Toyota who turned into me at a corner.  She wasn't indicating and had only just drawn abreast of me when she turned left.  I was on the point of turning into the same road and neither of us was going very quickly, which is why I and the bike are in one piece.

She was reading a bloody newspaper.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul D on 18 August, 2010, 09:47:13 am
There seems to be a lot of angst on this thread from repeated near misses and bad roads/cycle paths.

I'd like to give you lot some light relief; the worse thing about my 20 miles 50/50 offroad/tarmac was passing through a dairy farm near Bloxworth rendering my bottle unusable for a covering of cowshite. Wareham Forest at 7.30am was particular nice. :thumbsup: I'd have managed about 70% offroad if I didn't have a meeting at 9am so didn't leap the padlocked gate marked 'Grants Farm Only'. O:-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 18 August, 2010, 10:03:10 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 18 August, 2010, 09:35:28 am
This morning I was nearly crushed by a woman in a silver Toyota who turned into me at a corner.  She wasn't indicating and had only just drawn abreast of me when she turned left.  I was on the point of turning into the same road and neither of us was going very quickly, which is why I and the bike are in one piece.

She was reading a bloody newspaper.

Glad you're here to post. Was that the end of the matter?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 18 August, 2010, 10:34:12 am
Last night, for several miles between Lambeth and Dulwich, I rode behind/in front of/alongside a highly attractive young lady (pink Pearson jersey) with a winning smile, on a gorgeous bike (full carbon Ridley). I tried not to let it show that I was struggling to maintain a decent pace, but I was still tired from my morning swim.

As well as that young lady, there seemed to be quite a few other cyclists all heading in the same direction last night, who joined us at various points along the way and seemed to know each other, but then all seemed to suddenly disappear at the same time (bottom of Fountain Drive). I suspect they were on their way to a club gathering, especially as there were a couple of Dulwich Paragon jerseys among them. And they all seemed to be sensible, experienced riders, which made a pleasant change from the usual RLJing numpties with no road sense.  :thumbsup:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 18 August, 2010, 10:46:58 am
Quote from: perpetual dan on 18 August, 2010, 10:03:10 am
Glad you're here to post. Was that the end of the matter?

I was too stunned to bang on the car.  The cyclist behind me was more immediately upset about it; think she'd right-hooked him at the previous turn.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 18 August, 2010, 10:58:21 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 18 August, 2010, 10:46:58 am
Quote from: perpetual dan on 18 August, 2010, 10:03:10 am
Glad you're here to post. Was that the end of the matter?

I was too stunned to bang on the car.  The cyclist behind me was more immediately upset about it; think she'd right-hooked him at the previous turn.

Well, glad you escaped unharmed at least. Don't suppose you got her numberplate details? Doubt it would be worth reporting anyway, but you never know.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 18 August, 2010, 11:17:30 am
No, didn't get the details.

You can be doing everything right and still be knocked sideways by an idiot in a metal cage.  I was well positioned, checked behind me, quite aware of her position and speed - suddenly she just went. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 18 August, 2010, 11:21:28 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 18 August, 2010, 11:17:30 am
You can be doing everything right and still be knocked sideways by an idiot in a metal cage.

True dat.

There's a particular point on my regular route, halfway up the hill on the way into Bromley, where lots of motorists turn left to cut through and avoid the high street. I've nearly been taken out so many times now that I usually move right out towards the middle of the road as I approach that turn, but I still fear it's inevitable that I'll get knocked off there one day.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 18 August, 2010, 11:39:19 am
Phew, glad you're OK!  That's someone I would love to have Roadsafe reported.  Grrrr!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 18 August, 2010, 01:34:39 pm
Still full of cold this morning, I trudged wearily into work and just before Peckham huuuuge queues were forming. On reaching Peckham I discovered that the bus station had been closed down  ??? Thence past Peckham proper a large area of the A202 had been cordoned off, turns out there was an RTA between a car and a bus this morning.

Ahhh: BBC News - Driver dies as car crashes into shop in Peckham (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-11008510) Blimey Charlie  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 19 August, 2010, 09:57:13 am
Hit and sustained 51kph along Battersea Park road this morning, sat in the middle of a convoy of scooters who just didn't know how to position themselves around me. Not threatening, but quite funny.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 19 August, 2010, 11:34:44 am
Quote from: alexb on 19 August, 2010, 09:57:13 am
Hit and sustained 51kph ...
TheLurker dreams of being able to reach 20mph for a fleeting moment never mind maintain it.  As for 30mph? Werl not this side of riding off a cliff.  *sigh*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 19 August, 2010, 11:40:12 am
If I want to do 51kph I go out in the car ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 19 August, 2010, 11:46:30 am
I rode my folder today and slammed it into the rear end of a tax at the Waterloo roundabout.  The driver had, it appeared, slammed his brakes on to avoid killing a cyclist in front of him.  I was accelerating onto the roundabout and didn't even have time to try braking when he came to a sudden standstill.  The bike simply up-ended and dumped me, upright thankfully, on the tarmac.  One bruised knuckle, one bruised shin and a perfectly happy cabbie who didn't seem at all bothered.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 August, 2010, 11:51:44 am
Quote from: TheLurker on 19 August, 2010, 11:34:44 am
Quote from: alexb on 19 August, 2010, 09:57:13 am
Hit and sustained 51kph ...
TheLurker dreams of being able to reach 20mph for a fleeting moment never mind maintain it.  As for 30mph? Werl not this side of riding off a cliff.  *sigh*

I regard a maximum over 40kph as one sign of a good ride.  Despite some souplesse, I find it hard to spin fast enough to go much faster.  Although TGL did top 50kph briefly downhill when he borrowed my Solo ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 August, 2010, 11:52:31 am
Quote from: PaulR on 19 August, 2010, 11:46:30 am
I rode my folder today and slammed it into the rear end of a tax at the Waterloo roundabout.  The driver had, it appeared, slammed his brakes on to avoid killing a cyclist in front of him.  I was accelerating onto the roundabout and didn't even have time to try braking when he came to a sudden standstill.  The bike simply up-ended and dumped me, upright thankfully, on the tarmac.  One bruised knuckle, one bruised shin and a perfectly happy cabbie who didn't seem at all bothered.

Ouch!  Hope you mend well.  How's the bike?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 19 August, 2010, 11:58:52 am
Quote from: clarion on 19 August, 2010, 11:52:31 am
Ouch!  Hope you mend well.  How's the bike?

The only effect on the bike seems to have been a bar end shunted to a different angle.  Hard to tell though, the bike was such a weird shape when I bought it!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 August, 2010, 12:12:54 pm
Might have been helpful to have unfolded it before riding ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 19 August, 2010, 07:24:33 pm
Saw 3 deer in a freshly cut field of hay, munching happily in the sunshine this morning.
In Devizes the lady in the red car decided the cycle lane was for cars, so I rapped upon her nearside rear panel, twice, and she moved over mighty quick.
The milk float at the head of the queue also thought the lane was for his float so a loud 'Oi' sorted him out.

Coming home was quite a drag with a strong cross / tail wind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 19 August, 2010, 07:59:11 pm
Post A Level results celebration ride with son this afternoon before the rain set in - short 32km loop, 600m climbing. A little windy on the tops but managed to hit 71kph on the the road down to Totley  ;D

(Not *exactly* a commute - but 75% of it did comprise my normal commuting route!)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 19 August, 2010, 08:07:13 pm
Quote from: pdm on 19 August, 2010, 07:59:11 pm
Post A Level results celebration ride with son this afternoon before the rain set in - short 32km loop, 600m climbing. A little windy on the tops but managed to hit 71kph on the the road down to Totley  ;D
:thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 19 August, 2010, 08:43:28 pm
Yesterday evening on the commute home I had a middle aged, redfaced, lycra clad ? on rather a nice bike with tribars  hanging on my tail up the hill on Benthouse Lane in Durham. He was wheezing and puffing all the way. I was a little concerned he was going to pass out as he tried to haul past me. I should point out that I was wearing jacket and tie and deliberately trying not to work up a sweat as I meandered home. He passed me eventually when I stopped for the redlight at the top of the hill; RL jumping must be legal if you wear lycra. Imagine my surprise when I rounded the same corner myself after the lights changed I found him sprawled on the deck in the middle of the road... He'd had the double misfortune to 1) be stopped by a member of the constabulary, presumably to discuss his colour blindness problems and 2) choose the occasion to have a clipless moment.

Today I heard the same death rattle approaching behind me again at the same point. And yes, as yesterday he hauled past me at the same set of red lights, but this time he was sporting a rather impressive elbow bandage in addition to his lycra. Some folks never learn...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 19 August, 2010, 09:25:39 pm
Day 4 in a row, not bad given that this is me getting back on the bike after a month's apathy break. Also an hour of 5-a-side. Tomorrow will be sluggish but my first full house for *ages*.

No 51kph on the way in, but I did hit and maintain 43kph for most of Chelsea Embankment this morning. Not so fast going home...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 19 August, 2010, 09:37:32 pm
The only time I see 43kph onna bike is downhill & then it has to be steeeep.I'll have a pint of whatever you're drinking.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 20 August, 2010, 08:03:30 am
When I ride home this evening I will have clocked up my first full house in ages :thumbsup:

Managed to crick my neck in my sleep last night and it is giving me a headache. Riding in was pretty horrible - every bump (lots!) jarred my neck further.  :'(

Also I have got that thing where you yawn constantly and subsequently have streaming eyes.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 20 August, 2010, 09:00:10 am
I don't get it.  This morning's commute felt light another hard slog, but I set another pb for the ride in (and this time over a longer route).  I'd be happier with my usual times and an easier ride.

Spent some time last night and this morning using the drops (with my earlier set-up they were unusable).  My word, the bike sure does handle funny when riding on the drops!  I think I'll need a fair amount of practice before I attempt anything like descending a decent hill on the drops — at the moment, any little bump sets the bike twitching.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 20 August, 2010, 09:08:57 am
Hit 59km/h briefly this morning. Very briefly. A bit too spinny for my liking on a 68" fixed gear (180rpm).

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 20 August, 2010, 09:20:10 am
My first full house I think ever.
Ride this morning went like this:
My toes were a little chilly from walking across damp grass and I wondered for a bit if too cold for The Sandals Of Comfort would come before or after riding under cover of darkness when socks with sandals becomes ok.
Then the Dingle van passed me on the same piece of road he's passed me (we meet head on half way up/down a hill on a lane) every day for the last 2 weeks & I contemplated if he'd ever twig he's supposed to SLOW down. Which is what I shouted at him, again.
Then on the busy road I got buffeted all over the place by the backdraft of a lorry passing ridiculously close, 6 inches maybe. As I screamed at his disappearing rear I saw the reason for his inconsiderate attitude- he was being overtaken himself. Clearly slowing is for wimps. I then had the opportunity to ponder a) how come I only ever throw up when I haven't eaten anything and b) how unpleasant bile is, and c) that fight or flight reflex is in fact a bit rubbish in my case as now I was too shaky for a battle and pretty bloody powerless on the bike.
Further on, I was still considering my feeble-ness when I was overtaken my Mr Pollard on his cat dump truck. A cheery wave was exchanged and I jumped on for a wee tow for a mile or so, till our routes diverged with another wave.
Next encounter was a lady on a bike walking her dog. She had a stiffly sprung attachment to somewhere around the rear stay which the dog's lead was on. A strange arrangement and I shouted 'morning!' from well behind as I had a highly entertaining cartoon image of the dog chasing after me dragging her along at 3x her comfortable speed.
A little singing along to cheesy pop songs, another cheery wave from a grain moving farmer (I'm famous, locally. That girl from *****'s with the bike), very courteous driving from one of our lorries and into the yard no slower than monday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wascally Weasel on 20 August, 2010, 09:23:54 am
Pb today - 18.9mph average.  Tailwind?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 20 August, 2010, 09:27:10 am
Got soaked in last mile of commute which would not have happened if I had not stopped to repair a rare front wheel puncture.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 20 August, 2010, 09:36:11 am
^^ I hate it when that happens, especially when I am trying really hard to get home before it pours down.


I overdosed on sugar last night.  I stuffed my face with loads of stuff I shouldn't and even scoffed some low G.I. food inbetween the sugary bouts.  I slept pants as a result and was not surprised with a very high blood sugar reading this morning.

However, whereas I had been feeling the accumulating miles so far this week due to a week or more off the bike, this morning with more 'fuel' on board I flew in to work.  Even with the head wind.

At my second last roundabout, the biggest one I had a near miss with a taxi driver.  It was all slow mo in front of me and I knew he had not seen me so I braked to avoid becoming his bonnet ornament and shouted a very very loud "HEY".  I saw his head turn in slow mo, and his lips mouthed S   -  O  -   R   -  R   -  Y as he drove within inches across my front wheel and line of travel.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 23 August, 2010, 09:00:49 am
I was pleasantly surprised by the number of bikes still taking to the road.

And I got wet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 23 August, 2010, 10:54:08 am
Missed the rain and made good time in, despite being more cautious than usual because of the damp.  Back on the fixie now I've replaced the wheels.  Which have the most day-glo hi-viz rims ever.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 23 August, 2010, 11:18:50 am
Hot and muggy last night so we slept with the bedroom window open. So I was woken several times by torrential rain and howling gales. So I slept through my alarm this morning. When I eventually scraped myself out of bed, I took one look at the weather and decided to put on some extra layers before venturing out on my bike, but of course it was still very muggy despite the wind and rain, so it turned out I was rather overdressed and ended up extremely sweaty. And to top it all, I missed my train so was late to work.

It's the first time I've been out in properly wet conditions since fitting the Kool Stop dual compound brake blocks and first impressions are a bit mixed. They seem to offer absolutely no grip at all at first but then suddenly lots of grip (presumably once they've "ploughed" the water off the rim). That's something I'm going to have to get used to. Quickly.

Unlike Ham, I saw few other bikes out this morning, but the bike store at work was about half full so there are at least a few reasonably hardy souls among my colleagues. As usual, the wet conditions seemed to turn lots of motorists into even bigger morons than usual. Among the most notable incidents, I was nearly taken out by a taxi driver outside Victoria Station who decided to cut across the road from the taxi rank to go into the station itself without so much as a glance behind (probably distracted by the newspaper he was reading at the time  ::-) - I really should have taken his number or something, but couldn't be arsed), and then I was nearly taken out by another taxi driver on Victoria Street who decided to do a U-turn without looking what was coming the other way first.

Note to self: now would be a good time to oil your chain, like you meant to do over the weekend, you idiot.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 23 August, 2010, 12:38:01 pm
I got utterly drenched on my commute this morning. I was riding in the lashing rain for my entire journey. I was quite a lot of fun :)

Going home won't be too fun though, cold soggy shoes :hand:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 23 August, 2010, 12:47:08 pm
Quote from: Jacomus on 23 August, 2010, 12:38:01 pm
cold soggy shoes :hand:

Stuff them with scrunched-up newspaper. It's very effective.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 23 August, 2010, 12:47:41 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 23 August, 2010, 11:18:50 am
It's the first time I've been out in properly wet conditions since fitting the Kool Stop dual compound brake blocks and first impressions are a bit mixed. They seem to offer absolutely no grip at all at first but then suddenly lots of grip (presumably once they've "ploughed" the water off the rim). That's something I'm going to have to get used to. Quickly.

Matches my experiences with them.  I put my first pair on the front the night before the Mille Cymru and found out about this two second lag about two days later on the Pembrokeshire stage when it started raining.  Before that I had the wet compound ones and I don't recall such an extreme lag with them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 23 August, 2010, 01:07:46 pm
Quote from: Jacomus on 23 August, 2010, 12:38:01 pm
I got utterly drenched on my commute this morning. I was riding in the lashing rain for my entire journey. I was quite a lot of fun :)

Going home won't be too fun though, cold soggy shoes :hand:


Hah. First, I searched for my neoprene overshoes that I couldn't fine. Then I had a moment of plan B Genius: pack another pair of shoes. Rain was warm enough to ride in short sleeved top only, rainjacket stayed in the bag.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 23 August, 2010, 01:26:43 pm
Quote from: simonp on 23 August, 2010, 12:47:41 pm
Before that I had the wet compound ones and I don't recall such an extreme lag with them.

Same here. OTOH, the dual compounds don't squeal like a stuck pig in the dry...

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 23 August, 2010, 04:01:32 pm
I got a bit damp on the way in, though not saoked. I arrived as the night shift were going home. I got more than one incredulous look and comments about my sanity for riding the huge distance of 10 miles to work in a bit of light rain. This from allegedly fit young officers who should be rough, tough, hard to bluff, lean, mean, fighting machines ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ScumOfTheRoad on 23 August, 2010, 04:30:13 pm
Quote from: fuzzy on 23 August, 2010, 04:01:32 pm
This from allegedly fit young officers who should be rough, tough, hard to bluff, lean, mean, fighting machines ::-)

I read that as "rough, tough, buff" - which would have resulted in a definite rise in recruitment to the force from certain sections of YACF!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 23 August, 2010, 05:48:26 pm
Quote from: ScumOfTheRoad on 23 August, 2010, 04:30:13 pm
Quote from: fuzzy on 23 August, 2010, 04:01:32 pm
This from allegedly fit young officers who should be rough, tough, hard to bluff, lean, mean, fighting machines ::-)

I read that as "rough, tough, buff" - which would have resulted in a definite rise in recruitment to the force from certain sections of YACF!

I thought it was cultures of Mycobacterium Tuberculosis that were 'rough, tough and buff'...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 23 August, 2010, 08:10:44 pm
Way home tonight was quite light traffic to start with. One little ducker in a car (ducker and diver, what did you think?) actually managed to keep up with me (or, me with he) all the way from Aldgate to the Bow flyover. However, the police had closed the flyover westbound and the resulting gridlock brought all motorised traffic to a standstill. Made me smile.

I do hope nobody was hurt on the westbound carriageway, but I am somewhat afraid that it must have been a serious accident, and it is not unlikely that a cyclist was involved. That piece of road is currently lethal with roadworks for the 2012 preparation. Each day I ride through expecting to come a cropper with an impatient driver. Don't suppose anyone knows what happened?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 23 August, 2010, 08:17:05 pm
You can change too much on a bike at one time.  This weekend, my fixie had

The handling of the bike is different enough that I am having to relearn the cues I am getting through my feet, knees and arse (the messages being transmitted from the rear wheel and through the seat post are significantly more insistent).  It's a much better ride but a different one.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 24 August, 2010, 09:10:08 am
I didn't get passed by any maotor vehicles until more than half my morning commute was over. It was gloriously quiet. Even the A4 had light traffic this morning.

Not only that, but the cool, crisp clear weather made for a really enjoyable experience.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 24 August, 2010, 09:13:21 am
Legs still a bit heavy today.  I was overtaken on London Wall and couldn't even be bothered to try and stay ahead or give chase.

Nice ride across town in the sun though :)

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 24 August, 2010, 09:20:09 am
If it is a crime to drown a squirrel, shouldn't it be a crime to drown a cyclist?


bl**dy weather.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 24 August, 2010, 10:31:21 am
Sunny. Windy. Sore legs. There was a line of grit down the cycle lane due to the road having been swept but not right to the edge. I raced the cars over Elizabeth Way bridge due to the bus lane being closed, hitting 45.9kph despite the sore legs. Fun on 67". :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 24 August, 2010, 10:49:12 am
Reviewing my PowerTap data I see that I set lots of new power PBs on my commute home last night. Not bad given that I've only been back on the bike for a week since having a month off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 24 August, 2010, 11:23:07 am
Dear Norwich Bus People

On Friday 13th August, I was cycling westbound along Thorpe Road Norwich and was overtaken in an incredibly dangerous manner by one of your employees. this was on the downhill stretch by the traffic lights at the bottom of Harvey Lane:

Google Maps (http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?client=firefox-a&amp;rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&amp;channel=s&amp;hl=en&amp;q=thorpe+road+norwich&amp;um=1&amp;ie=UTF-8&amp;hq=&amp;hnear=Thorpe+Rd,+Norwich,+Norfolk&amp;gl=uk&amp;ei=1XVlTKUtyI3iBtexpa0K&amp;sa=X&amp;oi=geocode_result&amp;ct=image&amp;resnum=1&amp;ved=0CBkQ8gEwAA)

Your driver overtook, then swung in, sideswiping me and forcing me into the kerb. It was extremely dangerous and reckless, there was no need to overtake just as the road narrows. I tried to catch up with the driver and could see he had seen me in his mirrors. This was breathtakingly rash, some of the worst driving Ive seen for a while.

I was travelling towards the city, so was the bus.

I apologise if my language was intemperate in the original email, I was literally shaking when I got home. I contacted First Group fist and they have confirmed it was one of your buses.

At the bottom of Harvey Lane there are two lanes westbound, towards the city. There was no way a bus and a cyclist can share one lane safely, I honestly thought the driver was going to sideswipe me into the kerb, I had to jam the brakes on as I was going at a good 20 mph on that little downhill stretch. And then of course I remained right behind the bus all the way to Rosary Corner, where I turned off! The overtake gained nothing. I don't know if any passengers saw anything or whether you have onboard CCTV like London buses.

It was a seriously dodgy bit of driving, the worst I've had for a long time.

The bus was a double decker with black letters on the rear 7165 and the vehicle reg was PNO3UMA. The driver was a middle aged male, and he is going to kill someone if he continues to driver like a boy racer in a chavvy Corsa.  I would like this complaint registered, I have no doubt if your employee continues to drive in this manner someone will get killed .


Many thanks  and best regards

spin.


The manager of the bus company just called. He said none of the drivers are putting their hands up but he's traced the vehicle and will check the forward-facing cctv. He said he wants to promote his company as having professional drivers and appreciated the feedback. 

In the fist email I may have gone a bit sweary.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 24 August, 2010, 11:38:24 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 24 August, 2010, 09:20:09 am
If it is a crime to drown a squirrel, shouldn't it be a crime to drown a cyclist?

bl**dy weather.

Er... I hesitate to say it but my morning commute was bathed in glorious sunshine.  :smug:

Was a bit windy again though.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 24 August, 2010, 12:50:12 pm
I've had two punctures in the last week

First one was a slow one last week sometime.  Didn't notice it until the bike clean-o-thon on saturday.  First one was the front wheel of the Orbea

Second one was last night on the the Roadrat.  I'd taken the Marathon Plus off it and put Rubino Pros on.  I did this as I am using my black beauty for an audax at the weekend.

Both were due to thorns.  It is hedge trimming season after all.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 24 August, 2010, 01:04:01 pm
I raced a Ferrari all the way from Blackheath to Bermondsey.  I encountered him at the end of our road, trying to do 0-60 between the speed bumps and then sailed past him at the first junction with the main road.  From there on, every time there was a set of lights he would get stopped then roar off at blood curdling speed.... for about 100 yards, then I'd pass him, then he'd roar past again, etc etc.  Sadly, he finally got away from me just before I spin off into the "bikes and buses only" street near Tower Bridge.  It had been very tempting to give him a little wave each time I passed him.

I probably need to get a life
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 24 August, 2010, 01:31:18 pm
Quote from: RobM on 24 August, 2010, 01:04:01 pm
It had been very tempting to give him a little wave each time I passed him.

I probably need to get a life

Next time wave, and smile.  It's fun.  ;D
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 24 August, 2010, 07:11:18 pm
I was blown all over the place by the wind. I don't mind too much though, I've decided battling against the wind = eat more chocolate.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul D on 24 August, 2010, 08:07:10 pm
Still offroad commuting. Pinch flat on the cyclocross bike tonight when ambition exceeded talent on a rocky bridleway near Bere Regis.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 25 August, 2010, 09:19:21 am
I must say, that was actual wind last night!!! :o

It's not very often that I feel affected by wind!!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 25 August, 2010, 09:21:52 am
Last night I arrived at the Cory line (disused) bridge on A4119.  As I pushed hard to sprint up the short sharp incline all traction disappeared  ??? I think the chain is snapped.  I push the bike up the remainder of the hill and when on a flat section I notice that the chain is still complete.  I turn the crank and the chain moves but the sprockets do not  ??? I look closely and can see that a sprocket had completely disappeared and the chain was sitting on two spacers between two others. I have never seen that before.

I click the ergo and chain moves up onto a present sprocket.  I think ride home do not change gear. Of course I do, fortunately the gears work fine except in the missing sprocket and I could quickly change away from it when I found traction had gone.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 25 August, 2010, 10:04:08 am
Blimey. The sprocket must have fractured and split into two pieces.

Wouldn't happen with Shimano IGMC
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 25 August, 2010, 10:07:28 am
Quote from: TimO on 17 August, 2010, 10:52:01 pm
Rather surprisingly I noticed that along Chelsea Bridge Road (http://maps.google.co.uk/?ie=UTF8&ll=51.48777,-0.152886&spn=0.004463,0.017166&z=16) they've actually gone to the effort of removing the mandatory cycle lane. ...

... and now they've put them back again. wtf? ???

They have painted them as near as dammit back at the same location as they were previously.  They haven't quite finished repainting all the bicycle symbols back on top of the bits were there used to be bicycle symbols, but they've done some.

The old ones weren't worn out, and in fact were probably some of the least worn white lines I see on my commute, so gods know what the council is up to.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 25 August, 2010, 10:29:11 am
About a mile away from work this morning I spotted a female cyclist by the side of the road with her bike upside down in mid repair with two of Lambeth's finest bin men. It turns out her chain had got completely wedged into the chainset and they were trying to yank it out. I asked if they needed any help and thus produced my multi-tool set. After some fine fettling the chain came free and she was so grateful that she gave the bin men a fiver, they wouldn't accept it at first but both of us encouraged them to and they reluctantly accepted it saying that they had both done their good deed for the day. Rode into work with a smile on my face.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 25 August, 2010, 11:03:56 am
Spun up to 49.0kph on Elizabeth Way bridge this morning.  I didn't stay there for more than a couple of seconds.  A mere 153rpm.

That's a new record for self-propelled speed for me on fixed (there was little wind today, and it's flat).

Was breathing quite heavily by the time I got to the far side.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 25 August, 2010, 11:42:14 am
Had a similar-but-less-impressive experience in the last half-mile of my ride this morning - I managed to time coming off a roundabout perfectly to get in the slipstream of a truck and hit about 45km/h - a mere 140rpm. It was slightly uphill, though. Couldn't keep it up for long, and very glad it was so close to the end of the ride.  :sick:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 25 August, 2010, 11:53:35 am
Around 39 minutes to get today, on fixed 48:19 (68").  My best on 72" was 37.  Wonder if I can crank that up.  I'm sure I can, if I can only remember to keep spinning.  My technique needs to change.

OTOH, still scalping wannabe racers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 25 August, 2010, 12:51:30 pm
This morning I used Orange bike.  This is my commuting bike after a recent respray.  Last night I assembled it quickly so I would have a bike I would be happy to ride to work on.  I have three bikes red bike primary function Audax - problem missing sprocket, see above; Pink white and blue bike primary function Winter audax and general playing - problem has no bottom bracket cable guide- could be bodged with cable tie until proper bit turns up.  Orange bike seemed the best choice. I had hoped to sort Orange bike out over the weekend it is full of little niggles.  Saddle is currently too low. Handle bar too high. Brake levers too far out. Front brake is rubbing. Computer is not attached.  Lights are not working.

The main reason for the late reappearance of Orange bike was the decision to switch to an easier single speed gear. The last parts arrived yesterday.  So my impression of new 65" gear was initially too low then when I reached the first significant hill still too high so it is probably about right.  The real test will be on a winter commute at the end of the week when I am tired and have a cold.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andygates on 25 August, 2010, 12:59:33 pm
Gosh, that was wet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RJ on 25 August, 2010, 01:02:33 pm
Quote from: andygates on 25 August, 2010, 12:59:33 pm
Gosh, that was wet.

Not here  ;)

Rain Radar Channel - Weathernews (http://weathernews.co.uk/radar/)

Ah - I see what you mean ...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rdaviesb on 25 August, 2010, 01:03:43 pm
For once it wasn't wet on the Fylde. The Dribble got a run today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: aptstarfish on 25 August, 2010, 01:12:30 pm
A very pleasant ride from Throckley to Morpeth on the old tourer... great to see some sunshine... cloud has bubbled up since... inevitably there will be showers this afternoon... hoping to do a longer route via Stamfordham on the way home  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 25 August, 2010, 01:28:24 pm
Ride home last night, got to the shed to find the tire flat. Marathon Racer that I've had since July has a cut right the way through. Annoying. Have replaced with a standard Marathon (700x28), as that's all the LBS had in that wasn't 23 or less.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 25 August, 2010, 04:08:35 pm
Only rode as far as Witham station today.  I had to take my old (non-folding) commute bike since I broke a spoke on the folder sometime yesterday.

I had to go on the underground again  :'(.  I managed not to kill anyone though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 25 August, 2010, 06:55:34 pm
In London, it pisseth down. Glad of my Montane Featherlite and my Emergency Hat. Saw many sorry sights on the way home. It's been a long time since I was mudguardless, and one forgets just how thoroughly wet a person's arse can get...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 25 August, 2010, 07:24:25 pm
That was glorious.  Rain drizzling down, I have a waterproof cover for my backpack but not for me.  I'm in my short-sleeve, short-leg lycra bodysuit.  Not at all cold - though I'd better go wring out my socks now and towel down.

I like the rain.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 25 August, 2010, 07:27:11 pm
The rain brings out the morons too.

I had a woman in a cream Mini pull out from Broomhouse Road into Hurlingham Road without bothering to look. Luckily there was enough space to grab the brakes and go round behind the car to avoid hitting it. She acted as if she'd done nothing wrong.

Despite catching up with her and overtaking her I passed on the chance to remonstrate with her directly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 25 August, 2010, 08:09:34 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 25 August, 2010, 07:27:11 pm
The rain brings out the morons too.
I had one of those today as well.

You know, overtaking at the top of a hill, near a junction, where the road narrows and comes into a blind corner, really isn't the brightest thing to do.  And if that other car, the one coming the other way round said corner, had been may be ten seconds earlier...

 :facepalm:

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 25 August, 2010, 09:35:44 pm
I quite enjoyed my post-work ride in the rain, even when it became quite heavy towards the end.

Not enjoying so much sitting on a train in wet clothes with very soggy feet.

<ford prefect>Lucky I brought my towel. </ford prefect>

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tail End Charlie on 25 August, 2010, 09:42:52 pm
Good ride in this morning, saw early morning pink sky but didn't get wet. Mornings like that are great. Definitely a bit cooler though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 26 August, 2010, 09:23:32 am
Yesterday ride home straight into the wind. Huge quantities of water running off the fields making interference patterns with the water running down the road as gravity tells it to.  Also lots from the sky.  On such a day I am unable to make an assessment of my new gear. Horrible.

This morning much better.  Socks got really wet but that was because the shoes are still waterlogged.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 26 August, 2010, 09:30:45 am
Still wet further west in Swansea.

It was the short commute this morning so I arrived at the bike shed by 7:05, only to discover I didn't have my keys with me.  So turn tail and am relieved to see them hanging from the outside of the garage door.  Back in again and still at my desk before most of my colleagues, 27 miles under my belt.  The colleagues that were in make sympathetic noises when I tell them the story, so I have to tell them that no, this was a bonus, and yes, I did get very wet but it didn't matter. They still don't understand.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: keeks on 26 August, 2010, 09:42:23 am
On the commute home saw a heavily laden bike ahead, not unusal site due to the ferry port. What caught my eye was the sign on the bike saying "Cape Town". So pulled along side and sure enough he was on a year long trip to ZA.  I stayed with him so that he could negiotiate the most convient way to a holiday inn near the ferry.

He has a blog , and I left the card with his details at home ........to dry . I 'll try and remember to dig it out and post it on the " rides "

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 26 August, 2010, 10:25:34 am
Quote from: Nuncio on 26 August, 2010, 09:30:45 am
The colleagues that were in make sympathetic noises when I tell them the story, so I have to tell them that no, this was a bonus, and yes, I did get very wet but it didn't matter. They still don't understand.

 ;D :thumbsup:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 26 August, 2010, 11:00:46 am
On my commute home yesterday I got wet.

I my commute in this morning I got wet.

No wind on either commute :thumbsup:

Riding in the rain is like riding in the dry- only wetter.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 26 August, 2010, 11:40:48 am
Said in the style of Gorden Ramsey " 46 mile commute witham to London cos there where no trains in the rain.......Done! "  :smug:

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 26 August, 2010, 11:42:13 am
Today's commute was 1km.
500m outbound & an HGV remains behind me all the way & resists the temptation to overtake.My still-a-little-wobbly technique on the 'bent may be a contributing factor :-\

The 500m uphill return made my thighs ache.
It didn't rain :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 26 August, 2010, 11:51:07 am
It was raining a little as I left the house
I opened the garage and started to pull out the winter bike with hub gears,full mudguards and lights
Then I realised it had a rear flat

Two problems here
1) I'd put a brand new tube in the rear last night and it seemed ok.  Previous to this I'd had another new inner tube explode in that wheel without it moving
2) It takes a while, a bit of torque and a bit of mess to remove the hub geared wheel

So I said never mind, I'll take the Orbea racing bike.  This is not the ideal wet weather bike as it has no guards.  The brakes are good though and that's always a bonus

I arrived at work extremely wet
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 26 August, 2010, 11:56:31 am
Oaky,

How did you get in today, when i got to witham station at 5:30am there where no trains untill at least 7am  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 26 August, 2010, 01:02:12 pm
Quote
Today's commute was 1km.
500m outbound & an HGV remains behind me all the way & resists the temptation to overtake.My still-a-little-wobbly technique on the 'bent may be a contributing factor

 Jogler, I think you must of missed at least one 0 Out of the two distances you mentioned
Teehhh..Tehhhh..... :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 26 August, 2010, 01:07:58 pm
My commute is even less than that! I'm amazed I'm still the cycling God I think I am.

Oy Oaky you bastard! My post was going to slot in very nicely after Anders's one.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 26 August, 2010, 01:18:17 pm
Quote from: Andyf on 26 August, 2010, 11:56:31 am
Oaky,

How did you get in today, when i got to witham station at 5:30am there where no trains untill at least 7am  :o

0743, but it was 25mins late into Lpoo St.

Quote from: Riggers on 26 August, 2010, 01:07:58 pm
My commute is even less than that! I'm amazed I'm still the cycling God I think I am.

Oy Oaky you bastard! My post was going to slot in very nicely after Anders's one.

Fixed now! ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 26 August, 2010, 01:23:14 pm

And what a lovely chap Oaky is. He's my favourite chum.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 26 August, 2010, 01:53:20 pm
Quote
Said in the style of Gorden Ramsey " 46 mile commute witham to London cos there where no trains in the rain.......Done! " 

Looks like my assumption, that the whole network was going to be shut down was wrong. Got to cycle 46 miles extra  :thumbsup:( It was bloody hard work in the rain and after a weeks holiday marinading my self in wine and scotch :sick:)  and the boss is gratefull I made the effort  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 26 August, 2010, 01:54:40 pm
Yesterday on the way home I had one of those drivers who is determined to overtake at all costs, despite the fact that theren't any room for his car to physically get in front of me. I was at most 10 feet or so behind the car in front and travelling at the same speed

At times I could see his front left quarter in my peripheral vision without having to look round.

Thankfully a series of oncoming cars meant that he eventually got stopped somewhere behind me and I was able to overtake the car in front of me and make better progress.

this morning by contrast I had a white van who sat back nicely and as a consequence, I was able to clear a path for both of us by bullying oncoming cars into pulling in and waiting through simple road positioning and having my bulky tailgunner to add authority!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 26 August, 2010, 02:15:22 pm
Quote from: Andyf on 26 August, 2010, 01:02:12 pm
Quote
Today's commute was 1km.
500m outbound & an HGV remains behind me all the way & resists the temptation to overtake.My still-a-little-wobbly technique on the 'bent may be a contributing factor

 Jogler, I think you must of missed at least one 0 Out of the two distances you mentioned
Teehhh..Tehhhh..... :thumbsup:

It might be the start of a" virtual" commute.Small beginings are o.k. ;)

& when I do a double-distance commute it will,I hope, be very satisfying ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 26 August, 2010, 05:16:34 pm
Blimey.
 
Full lighting on the way home.
 
It was only 4.30 !!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 26 August, 2010, 06:25:36 pm
Very gloomy on the way home.  Most cars had their lights on.

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 26 August, 2010, 08:05:41 pm
SLOW going today - Rain on the way in with a headwind.
Some rain/drizzle and heavy headwind on the way home - only managed 56kph on Hangram lane - usually get up to about 65-70kph! over 10 minutes slower than usual summer time.  >:(
Met two guys cycling home from their job at the POLARIS (cycle clothing and stuff) factory in Dronfield.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: steveh on 26 August, 2010, 10:32:28 pm
Rear light was there, front might have been handy, judging by all the cagers with lights on, and other cyclists coming towards me with headlights on.
It's AUGUST ffs  :-[
Steve
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 26 August, 2010, 10:42:26 pm
Front and rear lights morning and evening for me - for a few days now. London  ::-)

Edit: v nice warm light drizzle tonight though  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 26 August, 2010, 10:47:55 pm
Numptie Night.

Numpties in cars with steamed up windows; numpties driving buses six feet from my rear wheel; numpties on bikes drifting all over the road and riding past the stop lines at junctions just so they could get in my way when the lights changed; a numpty in a car texting on her iphone with two young kids in the back not even strapped in.

My God, I was grumpy when  I got home.  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 27 August, 2010, 05:50:06 am
Commute home last night was by car to the nick nearest my home. I have commuted in already this morning by car again via a sneaky beaky stupid o'clock job.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 27 August, 2010, 09:58:22 am
First day with warm Endura 3/4 lengths

Yes, it's autumn

At least it isn't raining today and I've sorted out my winter bikes rear wheel
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 27 August, 2010, 10:13:56 am
I'm still not convinced about the scary blue paint on the Cycle Superhighways.
I haven't had cause to slam the brakes on in the wet, but if I have to, I suspect I'm just going to sliiiiiiiiide.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 27 August, 2010, 10:20:01 am
Friday legs, and much much quieter on the roads as most of SW London packs up their suitcases of Boden and head down the M4/M5 or A303 to Rock, Daymer Bay, Hayle, etc for the long weekend.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 27 August, 2010, 10:50:31 am
Heavy legs from cycling 60k + running 5k yesterday.

Pink yacf top.  Seemed to get loads of room.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 27 August, 2010, 11:05:08 am
No commute today!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moultonaught on 27 August, 2010, 11:29:06 am
on the commute last night... my ride home took 10 minutes longer than expected due to the young security guard at Aylesbury station asking squillions of questions about my series 1 Moulton as I left to ride home at about 11.30pm

his parting words were along the lines of: "that's a cool bike man, crazy but cool...."

 :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: keeks on 27 August, 2010, 11:50:38 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 27 August, 2010, 09:58:22 am
First day with warm Endura 3/4 lengths

Yes, it's autumn

At least it isn't raining today and I've sorted out my winter bikes rear wheel

Yep just purchased Endura 3/4 s and going to be fettling this weekend geting the bike ready for winter mode, as these last commutes have for hastened the arrival of Autumn .
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cyclone on 27 August, 2010, 11:57:10 am
Yes should have worn leggings, winter bike poised (Cripes its not September yet!) and definately a case of Friday legs too.....At least it was dry on the way in - may not be so on the way home... :-X
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 27 August, 2010, 12:09:00 pm
Not so cold this morning in South Wales.  Still in shorts and short sleeved shirt. In fact I arrived at work bathed in sweat.

On the other hand when I set off for home last night I wished my arms were covered but I got used to it.   A cyclist joined me and spotting Argos on the frame asked if Arthur still made frames. I told him Arthur was retired and this one was made by Gary.  Two days earlier I would have been on red bike which was made by Arthur. Actually new bike has some braze-ons made by Arthur although the frame was made by Gary.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 27 August, 2010, 01:22:57 pm
Today was the first day in two months that I haven't cycled to work.  I'd nearly forgotten what public transport is like.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 27 August, 2010, 01:30:55 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 27 August, 2010, 01:22:57 pm
Today was the first day in two months that I haven't cycled to work.  I'd nearly forgotten what public transport is like.

Are you still sitting in the corner of the office, hugging your knees and gibbering?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: dkahn400 on 27 August, 2010, 01:38:29 pm
Nearly got taken out by a bus this morning. It was stationary in the queue for the traffic lights in the traffic lane to the right of the bus lane. I was in the centre of the otherwise unoccupied bus lane and slowing for the lights. Just as I got level with the rear of the bus the driver decided to move abruptly and without warning into my path. Fortunately he heard my shout and stopped again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moultonaught on 27 August, 2010, 01:39:18 pm
A p*n*tu*e  on the way to the station yesterday -  luckily only 200 yards from the station.
So I walked to the station got my train taking the front wheel with me - to fix at work.

Didn't manage to find time at work so thought I'd fix it on the train on the way back.

A split  tyre (caused I think by dropping into potholes I couldn't see on the previous evening's ride home  - due to the rain of biblical proportions ) meant my trusty folding Schwalbe Kojak came out of the Carradice...


It was packed down quite small so I 'massaged' it into shape before fitting - all this whilst sitting in the train door vestibule....

I then realised that a slightly pi**ed bloke  (I was on the 10.30 pm train  - the last train but one with the post pub crowd)  was watching in complete amazement as this black sausage transformed before his eyes a into a tyre... which was ghen fitted along with tube and pumped up....  :thumbsup:

I felt like Paul Daniels - all I was lacking was a glamorous assistant....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 27 August, 2010, 03:17:10 pm
Quote from: Basil on 27 August, 2010, 01:30:55 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 27 August, 2010, 01:22:57 pm
Today was the first day in two months that I haven't cycled to work.  I'd nearly forgotten what public transport is like.

Are you still sitting in the corner of the office, hugging your knees and gibbering?

It wasn't fun.  OK, so I got to read the paper but that was the only plus.  Also, it took twenty minutes longer.  And getting home will be worse.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 27 August, 2010, 03:24:01 pm
I know what you mean - a broken spoke means I've been on the underground for the last three days (although I was goign to forgo the bike today anyway --- attending some leavign drinks tonight).

Being able to read my book was the only plus.

I will replace the spoke this weekend.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 27 August, 2010, 03:26:09 pm
Have neither of you signed up to the Boris Bike scheme? If not, what are you waiting for - do it now! Say goodbye to tube misery forever!

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 27 August, 2010, 03:27:17 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 27 August, 2010, 03:17:10 pm
Quote from: Basil on 27 August, 2010, 01:30:55 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 27 August, 2010, 01:22:57 pm
Today was the first day in two months that I haven't cycled to work.  I'd nearly forgotten what public transport is like.

Are you still sitting in the corner of the office, hugging your knees and gibbering?

It wasn't fun.  OK, so I got to read the paper but that was the only plus.  Also, it took twenty minutes longer.  And getting home will be worse.

My problem is that my commute by train is generally nicer than my commute by bike.

A nice 10 minute walk to the station. 10 trains an hour. 18 minute journey time. Nice clean relatively new trains, rarely late (10 trains an hour means you don't care anyway). A seat most days (who cares for 18 minutes anyway). I can read the paper or a book instead of spending large portions of my concentration trying to ensure no knobhead motorists manage to kill me. A nice 10 minute walk the other end (past some useful shops in Waterloo station). All in all, same duration (if I take into account the necessary shower either end) and much less hassle. No tickets to worry about, SWT trains take Oyster pre-pay.

However, today is the 10th bike commuting day in a row, which I'm much happier about. The ~120km a week is doing me (especially by fitness and gut) good.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 27 August, 2010, 03:43:01 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 27 August, 2010, 03:26:09 pm
Have neither of you signed up to the Boris Bike scheme? If not, what are you waiting for - do it now! Say goodbye to tube misery forever!

It doesn't work for everyone, if I use public transport, it's the Tube between South Ken and Wimbledon, and Boris Bikes don't go anywhere near as far out as Wimbledon, the most south-westerly ones are Olympia and Earls Court.

I Tubed & Tramed it in today, since I've ended up with utterly soaking shoes for the last two days, and I need them to be dryish for the FNRttC tonight.  They would have got fairly wet cycling in, but it seems to have dried out now. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 27 August, 2010, 03:51:13 pm
It must be nice having worthwhile public transport.

3 minute walk to bus stop.

Up to 10 (hah) minute wait for every-10-minutes (hah) bus.

50 minutes transit time via everywhere to Kings Hedges Rd.

3 minute walk to work.

This is for a journey that I've cycled in as little as 17 minutes moving time!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 27 August, 2010, 03:53:55 pm
Quote from: TimO on 27 August, 2010, 03:43:01 pm
It doesn't work for everyone, if I use public transport, it's the Tube between South Ken and Wimbledon, and Boris Bikes don't go anywhere near as far out as Wimbledon, the most south-westerly ones are Olympia and Earls Court.

True, but I was under the impression that Oaky has to get a train into central London then tube the rest of the way, so I think it would work for him.

Quote
I Tubed & Tramed it in today, since I've ended up with utterly soaking shoes for the last two days, and I need them to be dryish for the FNRttC tonight.

FNRttC is tonight? Damn, I was planning to sign up for this one* and completely forgot. It'll be too late to put my name down now, won't it? Not sure I'm adequately prepared for an overnight ride anyway.

d.

*this is the Whitstable one, isn't it?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 27 August, 2010, 03:59:01 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 27 August, 2010, 03:53:55 pm
Quote from: TimO on 27 August, 2010, 03:43:01 pm
It doesn't work for everyone, if I use public transport, it's the Tube between South Ken and Wimbledon, and Boris Bikes don't go anywhere near as far out as Wimbledon, the most south-westerly ones are Olympia and Earls Court.

True, but I was under the impression that Oaky has to get a train into central London then tube the rest of the way, so I think it would work for him.

Yes - it would have worked for me, had I been registered - I bike to the train in Witham, then train to Lpoo St. then have to get to Kingsway.  I usually use a folder so do that by bike too, but have been back onm the tube this week.  :(

Although on both wednesday and thursday mornings I noticed the nearest docking station to our office, the one on Kingsway itself, was full when I walked past. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 27 August, 2010, 04:03:30 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 27 August, 2010, 03:26:09 pm
Have neither of you signed up to the Boris Bike scheme? If not, what are you waiting for - do it now! Say goodbye to tube misery forever!

d.


I have two functional bikes, that wasn't the issue.  And if I didn't, the nearest borisbike stand is at least 15 minutes away.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Zipperhead on 27 August, 2010, 07:00:03 pm
On the way home tonight I was strolling across Albert Bridge* admiring the scenery, when a women wobbled past riding her bicycle. A *very* expensively dressed women, I merely inquired of her why if walking was too difficult and was treated to a tirade beginning with "it's none of your business", increasing in volume and pitch. When she got to the part about "Why don't you fix your own problems" another pedestrian asked her a question. "Do you know why I've stopped you madam?"

Karma!


* For non-Londoners, Albert Bridge is closed to vehicles for 18 months to perform urgent repairs caused by overweight vehicles (those people who ignore the 2 ton limit), only one (narrow) footpath is open and there are signs at both ends telling cyclists to dismount and walk.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 27 August, 2010, 08:11:17 pm
Hahaha! That's awesome Zipperhead.

Flatus, jwo, this is your cue to castigate Z severely.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 27 August, 2010, 09:32:30 pm
I've just seen 20 Boris Bikes jump a red light. They were all on a trailer being towed by a maintenance van. :facepalm:

I followed the van up Farringdon Road and it was behaving very erratically - if I didn't know better, I might have suspected the driver and passenger were pissed. Especially when they started tooting at women pedestrians.   ::-)

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 30 August, 2010, 11:04:22 am
Obviously, in absolute terms, considering the opportunities that a bank holiday commute presents I've got to admit I'm dissapointed. That said, having gone over the data I can now see that I really put the effort in and though the resulting time may not be quite up there, for me that was a top class ride.

sportwaffle aside, I bet it's a stiff, yet almost imperceptible headwind on the way home too.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 31 August, 2010, 09:24:48 am
Beautiful morning for riding in today, cool crisp autumnal morning. If only I had avoided the 5 minutes waiting at the level crossing and had the geared bike to stay in the tow of the other rider who was waiting there. (I span the fixie up to 22mph ~110rpm and he went past as if I was going backwards, then disappeared on up the road).

Plus I think I spotted MattH near Bagshot.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 31 August, 2010, 09:31:32 am
I was knocked off my bike, this morning, on Bayswater Road.  Some prick in a council services van pulled out into the road when I was right in front of him.  He saw me at the very last minute, which was too late not to hit me but early enough that I'm uninjured.  Knocked the bike from under me and I have some road rash on my arm and thigh.  In a way, I think I was lucky that it was a van with a high-set cab, so that I had a fairly straight-forward side-on collision with a largely vertical bonnet rather than something which flipped me through 90 degrees. Worst thing about it was the sense of inevitability; could see him coming, couldn't do anything about it, just had to wait for the impact.

When I worked out I wasn't dead or injured, I was furious.  Got up and banged on his passenger window.  Only then did he get out.  Couldn't believe his attitude; he was annoyed that I was annoyed.  "Look, I've apologised.  Look, I've gotten  out to see if you're all right."  Only reason he got out of his cab because I was trying to get into it through the window.

Colleague just brought me a mug of tea.  Mug has DHL all over it.  Because I need to be reminded about vans.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 31 August, 2010, 09:41:19 am
Bummer.  :(

Have you reported it? Have you had yourself checked out by a doc?

Most importantly: is the bike OK? ;)

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 31 August, 2010, 10:01:29 am
Is the bike ok?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 31 August, 2010, 10:18:09 am
The bike is OK.  I had a word with our first aide person here, but I remember the impact with great clarity and it managed to be near fatal (because it was a busy road he knocked me into) without actually causing injury.  The guy wasn't moving fast enough, thankfully.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 31 August, 2010, 10:31:11 am
Quote from: matthew on 31 August, 2010, 09:24:48 am
Beautiful morning for riding in today, cool crisp autumnal morning.

I looked out of the window this morning and everything looked wet. It was only when I get up that I realised it was just misty, so cold and damp - which was how it was until I was past Camberley and the sun started to burn it off. Still good enough for shorts, short sleeved top and mitts.

Quote
If only I had avoided the 5 minutes waiting at the level crossing and had the geared bike to stay in the tow of the other rider who was waiting there. (I span the fixie up to 22mph ~110rpm and he went past as if I was going backwards, then disappeared on up the road).

I got caught there too, but going the other way (obviously!).

Quote
Plus I think I spotted MattH near Bagshot.

Yes, that was me. A bit late out this morning, and with a heavier bag than normal and Friday legs already (Saturday night's ride home from Brum via Tewkesbury and Gloucester didn't help). I felt really slow, so I'm surprised I only took ten minutes longer than usual, and  still managed to average over 25km/h.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: onb on 31 August, 2010, 11:54:33 am
The office is dead and there is only me here so Im off on a nice long ride home through The Bowland Forest to Slaidburn and then over the Cross o Greet and home .Some consolation for a waste of time coming in today


(http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y252/onb/S3700117.jpg)


Between Slaidburn and the Cross o Greet
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 31 August, 2010, 11:55:17 am
Lovely.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 31 August, 2010, 01:36:06 pm
It seems there are two types of cyclists:

Those who look at a lovely photo like that and think "I want to ride up that road"

Those who look at a lovely photo like that and think "I want to ride down that road"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 31 August, 2010, 04:54:35 pm
Got to work this morning to discover I'd left my clean towel at home. Oh well, that's what wet wipes are for.
Then a colleague came into the changing room complaining that the weather was 'too cold for shorts but too hot for over trousers'.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 31 August, 2010, 06:10:44 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 31 August, 2010, 09:41:19 am

Have you reported it? Have you had yourself checked out by a doc?


I have now.  This morning I seemed to have gotten away with just a few scrapes and bruises, but around midday my left leg turned into one solid lump of pain.  Have spent all afternoon in Hammersmith A&E trading "Carry On Matron" double entendres with the nurses.  Good news is no fractures.  Bad news is I won't be commuting on any kind of transport for most of a week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 31 August, 2010, 07:22:33 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 31 August, 2010, 06:10:44 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 31 August, 2010, 09:41:19 am

Have you reported it? Have you had yourself checked out by a doc?


I have now.  This morning I seemed to have gotten away with just a few scrapes and bruises, but around midday my left leg turned into one solid lump of pain.  Have spent all afternoon in Hammersmith A&E trading "Carry On Matron" double entendres with the nurses.  Good news is no fractures.  Bad news is I won't be commuting on any kind of transport for most of a week.

Before I saw this I was going to post and advise you that, according to your original post, you certainly were injured. Road rash on arm and leg is an injury.

Of course, this is all your fault. Victims are always to blame......
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 31 August, 2010, 07:37:56 pm
Bottle cage broke on the TCR.  I was only 7 miles into the commute so took a gulp and emptied the bottle so it would not bounce out or sheer off completely.
Upon arriving home I have pinched the Specialized one of Mrs G's bike as it is black.  I have given her a heavier black one  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 31 August, 2010, 07:43:48 pm
Quote from: Grub on 31 August, 2010, 07:37:56 pm
Bottle cage broke on the TCR.  I was only 7 miles into the commute so took a gulp and emptied the bottle so it would not bounce out or sheer off completely.
Upon arriving home I have pinched the Specialized one of Mrs G's bike as it is black.  I have given her a heavier black one  ;D

Does she know?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: nutkin on 31 August, 2010, 09:12:59 pm
Quote from: fuzzy on 31 August, 2010, 07:43:48 pm
Quote from: Grub on 31 August, 2010, 07:37:56 pm
Bottle cage broke on the TCR.  I was only 7 miles into the commute so took a gulp and emptied the bottle so it would not bounce out or sheer off completely.
Upon arriving home I have pinched the Specialized one of Mrs G's bike as it is black.  I have given her a heavier black one  ;D

Does she know?

No reply from Grub.

Methionks she does indeed know, and he's now under the patio.....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 31 August, 2010, 09:38:28 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 31 August, 2010, 06:10:44 pm
This morning I seemed to have gotten away with just a few scrapes and bruises, but around midday my left leg turned into one solid lump of pain.

Sorry to hear that. The lack of instant pain is probably down to adrenaline. GWS.

Maybe worth getting the bike checked as well just in case there's hidden damage to the frame?

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 31 August, 2010, 09:59:12 pm
Quote from: nutkin on 31 August, 2010, 09:12:59 pm
Quote from: fuzzy on 31 August, 2010, 07:43:48 pm
Quote from: Grub on 31 August, 2010, 07:37:56 pm
Bottle cage broke on the TCR.  I was only 7 miles into the commute so took a gulp and emptied the bottle so it would not bounce out or sheer off completely.
Upon arriving home I have pinched the Specialized one of Mrs G's bike as it is black.  I have given her a heavier black one  ;D

Does she know?

No reply from Grub.

Methionks she does indeed know, and he's now under the patio.....

Sorry, I was on her rower.  No she doesn't know.  She doesn't know I was using HER rower either.
She and the boys were at swimming training.
I am not going to tell her either.  Treat it as a test in observation skills.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 31 August, 2010, 10:22:34 pm
The ride in was beautiful Homewards was marked by 2 p**ct*res, so had to nip in to halfords for a couple of tubes. Then got a bit lost following a road closure in Falkirk and ended up in seemingly going in circles in Larbert ! 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 01 September, 2010, 06:00:25 am
Quote from: onb on 31 August, 2010, 11:54:33 am
The office is dead and there is only me here so Im off on a nice long ride home through The Bowland Forest to Slaidburn and then over the Cross o Greet and home .Some consolation for a waste of time coming in today


(http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y252/onb/S3700117.jpg)


Between Slaidburn and the Cross o Greet

One of the many benefits of commuting  :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 01 September, 2010, 07:52:43 am
Ack! Ack! Ack! I don't know what they're putting on the fields at the moment, but it is positively emetic.   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 01 September, 2010, 08:28:40 am
1 minute 50 seconds door-to-door today. Maybe I could do it quicker?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 September, 2010, 08:52:27 am
Crikey.  I rode hard this morning, and was a shade over that (48 minutes 10 seconds over, as it happens).  You must be very fast Riggers.  Chapeau! ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 01 September, 2010, 08:56:58 am
Mr Cannondale and Mr Giant, thankyou for making my commute more interesting, your scalps will look great on my wall with the others  ;D
Mr 'Cheap folding mountain bike with disc brakes' who never stops at any red lights even at Holborn interchange, apart from being totaly left behind you are giving us cyclists a bad name, your going to come a cropper one day, and I don't know any first aid  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 01 September, 2010, 09:01:57 am
Quote from: clarion on 01 September, 2010, 08:52:27 am
Crikey.  I rode hard this morning, and was a shade over that (48 minutes 10 seconds over, as it happens).  You must be very fast Riggers.  Chapeau! ;)

Absolutely. And there's absolutely no need to discuss the actual distance!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 01 September, 2010, 10:22:58 am
Quote from: Andyf on 01 September, 2010, 08:56:58 am
... Mr 'Cheap folding mountain bike with disc brakes' who never stops at any red lights even at Holborn interchange, apart from being totaly left behind you are giving us cyclists a bad name, your going to come a cropper one day, and I don't know any first aid  :demon:

There's not a lot of first aid you can do to deal with cyclists squished underneath HGV. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 01 September, 2010, 11:23:55 am
New PB on the commute, I suspect due to the 300 I did at the weekend giving me the confidence to push harder without worrying I am going to run out of go.

28.16km in 54m42s, averaging 30.8kph. Never been below 57m before.

Chuffed with that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Christophe on 01 September, 2010, 11:39:06 am
Witnessed a curious RLJ prosecution avoidance technique this morning that surely wouldn't stand up in court. This happened three times.

I pulled up at a red light shortly after the Brommy I overtook on each occasion pulled up beside me. He dismounts, walks across the junction/ pedestrian crossing bit about 5 yards, remounts and then carries on cycling. WTF was the point? Why not just RLJ if you are going to?

Would the ' I wasn't actually riding when I went throught the red light. officer' stand up as an argument in court? If so maybe we should all try it........
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 September, 2010, 11:42:22 am
That'll be someone who sanctimoniously quotes Crank v Brookes IIRC.  It's still RLJing in my opinion.  I'm not interested in legal niceties, but respecting other road users.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 01 September, 2010, 12:12:16 pm
Quote from: clarion on 01 September, 2010, 11:42:22 am
It's still RLJing in my opinion.  I'm not interested in legal niceties, but respecting other road users.

I think you're being a little presumptuous.

We have no crime of jaywalking in the UK, so a pedestrian is allowed to go through a red light - and if he's on foot, he's a pedestrian, even if he's pushing a bike. If he does inconvenience other road users in doing so, I would agree that's discourteous, but you have no grounds to assume that he's doing anything disrespectful to other road users in this instance.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 September, 2010, 12:17:21 pm
True.  No evidence for my assumption in this case.  I've seen it done barging through pedestrians who are, of course. trying to cross at right angles.  But it might be OK here. 

A few seconds shouldn't matter that much.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 01 September, 2010, 12:21:23 pm
Quote from: clarion on 01 September, 2010, 11:42:22 am
That'll be someone who sanctimoniously quotes Crank v Brookes IIRC.

Quoting Crank vs Brooks (adding the letter e to that name seems to be the next thing on from inserting random apostrophes) may not be much help as the it refers to a bicycle being pushed across a pedestrian crossing. A judge in a RLJ-ing by dismounting and pushing case may choose to rule differently, especially given the intent to circumvent the intention of the stop line and red light.

Quote
"In my judgment a person who is walking across a pedestrian crossing pushing a bicycle, having started on the pavement on one side on her feet and not on the bicycle, and going across pushing the bicycle with both feet on the ground so to speak is clearly a 'foot passenger'. If for example she had been using it as a scooter by having one foot on the pedal and pushing herself along, she would not have been a 'foot passenger'. But the fact that she had the bicycle in her hand and was walking does not create any difference from a case where she is walking without a bicycle in her hand."
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 September, 2010, 12:28:06 pm
Thank's for the correction ;)

I agree that Crank v Brooks may well not apply, but I do know a lot of people cite it.  My guess is that such a person may fail the attitude test.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 01 September, 2010, 12:32:50 pm
Quote from: clarion on 01 September, 2010, 12:17:21 pm
A few seconds shouldn't matter that much.

There I totally agree. Waiting at the lights is the most civilised thing to do.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 01 September, 2010, 12:35:36 pm
Quote from: clarion on 01 September, 2010, 12:28:06 pm
My guess is that such a person may fail the attitude test.

Indeed, and I'm guessing they'd be looking at something mentioned by the laws referenced in HWC rules 68 to 71 in the "Rules for Cyclists" section.

I don't have time to sift through them all to check.

The two ones that jump out at me are:-

"
71

You MUST NOT cross the stop line when the traffic lights are red. Some junctions have an advanced stop line to enable you to wait and position yourself ahead of other traffic (see Rule 178).

[Laws RTA 1988 sect 36 & TSRGD regs 10 & 36(1)]
"

There may be something in either of these laws/regs that may even prevent dismounting and remounting the other side of the line.

Then there's the catch-all of:-

"
68

You MUST NOT

    * carry a passenger unless your cycle has been built or adapted to carry one
    * hold onto a moving vehicle or trailer
    * ride in a dangerous, careless or inconsiderate manner
    * ride when under the influence of drink or drugs, including medicine

[Law RTA 1988 sects 24, 26, 28, 29 & 30 as amended by RTA 1991]
"

It could be argued that such behaviour is inconsiderate to the other vehicles/pedestrians at that junction although, again, it depends on the wording of the relevant law.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 01 September, 2010, 12:41:58 pm
Yes, but if you're pushing the bicycle, you're not a cyclist, you're a pedestrian, and different rules apply.

(I also think you should stop at the lights and wait, but the law and what's reasonable don't always coincide).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 01 September, 2010, 12:50:31 pm
Quote from: TimO on 01 September, 2010, 10:22:58 am
Quote from: Andyf on 01 September, 2010, 08:56:58 am
... Mr 'Cheap folding mountain bike with disc brakes' who never stops at any red lights even at Holborn interchange, apart from being totaly left behind you are giving us cyclists a bad name, your going to come a cropper one day, and I don't know any first aid  :demon:

There's not a lot of first aid you can do to deal with cyclists squished underneath HGV. :-\

Quite so although some experience or qualification in LastAid might be usefull.That's be a priest then ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Access Legal Guy on 01 September, 2010, 12:54:11 pm
I think Crank can apply here.

Is the brommie rider dismounting his cycle and then mounting a footway on foot to cross at a pedestrian crossing? if so, he has always been on foot while on the footway and as such crosses the junction as a pedestrian, if he then only remounts the cycle once dismounting the footway.

That's not to say its a waste of time
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 01 September, 2010, 12:57:10 pm
Quote from: TimO on 01 September, 2010, 12:41:58 pm
Yes, but if you're pushing the bicycle, you're not a cyclist, you're a pedestrian, and different rules apply.

The reason there are so many lawyers in the world is that the law isn't always that simple.

A quick read of The Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2002 (http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2002/3113/part/I/made) shows that the stop line applies to 'vehicular traffic' (s 43).

The point is that a judge may decide that a pedestrian pushing a bicycle across a stop line in order to purposely ignore it and continue along the carriageway remains 'vehicular traffic'.

Obviously I'm not a judge (or even a lawyer) but my point is that there's nothing in the law that says you're going to be guaranteed to get away with it. It's not that simple.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 01 September, 2010, 12:58:11 pm
Quote from: Access Legal guy on 01 September, 2010, 12:54:11 pm
Is the brommie rider dismounting his cycle and then mounting a footway on foot to cross at a pedestrian crossing? if so, he has always been on foot while on the footway and as such crosses the junction as a pedestrian, if he then only remounts the cycle once dismounting the footway.

I'm not sure but I think he remained on the road at all times. He dismounts to push his bicycle over the stop line and then remounts to continue.

The Crank vs Brooks ruling was to prevent someone from being prosecuted for pushing their bicycle over a pedestrian crossing to cross the road from one side to the other (hence the 'having started from the pavement'). It wasn't someone pushing their bike over the crossing in the direction of the road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 September, 2010, 01:00:01 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 01 September, 2010, 12:57:10 pm
Obviously I'm not a judge (or even a lawyer) but my point is that there's nothing in the law that says you're going to be guaranteed to get away with it. It's not that simple.

I think it's fairly safe to say that, if you wait for the lights to change, you can get on your way, and have a pretty much 100% chance of not being prosecuted.  With no need to dismount.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 01 September, 2010, 01:08:36 pm
Another reason why I wouldn't rely on Crank vs Brooks:-

Road Traffic Act 1988 (c. 52) (http://www.opsi.gov.uk/acts/acts1988/plain/ukpga_19880052_en#pt1-pb9-l1g36)

s36 (1) which is the bit that HWC Rule 71 refers to is worded as follows:-

"
a person driving or propelling a vehicle who fails to comply with the indication given by the sign is guilty of an offence.
"

It could easily be argued that pushing a bicycle is covered by the "driving or propelling a vehicle", especially as this is the piece of legislation that provides the definition of the offence.

(Before anyone points it out, for the purpose of that section the term 'sign' is defined to include the traffic lights.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: onb on 01 September, 2010, 01:11:55 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 31 August, 2010, 01:36:06 pm
It seems there are two types of cyclists:

Those who look at a lovely photo like that and think "I want to ride up that road"

Those who look at a lovely photo like that and think "I want to ride down that road"


Yebbut there is a similar down at the other side of that up . ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 September, 2010, 01:28:08 pm
I just think I want to ride along it ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 01 September, 2010, 02:41:09 pm
Quote
Quite so although some experience or qualification in LastAid might be usefull.That's be a priest then

Looks like my employer will have to send me to the local Church as well as the Saint John ambulance for training, do you think Altura do a cycling jacket that you can put a priest's dog collar on and a pocket for a bible and rosary  O:-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Access Legal Guy on 01 September, 2010, 02:55:18 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 01 September, 2010, 12:58:11 pm
Quote from: Access Legal guy on 01 September, 2010, 12:54:11 pm
Is the brommie rider dismounting his cycle and then mounting a footway on foot to cross at a pedestrian crossing? if so, he has always been on foot while on the footway and as such crosses the junction as a pedestrian, if he then only remounts the cycle once dismounting the footway.

I'm not sure but I think he remained on the road at all times. He dismounts to push his bicycle over the stop line and then remounts to continue.

The Crank vs Brooks ruling was to prevent someone from being prosecuted for pushing their bicycle over a pedestrian crossing to cross the road from one side to the other (hence the 'having started from the pavement'). It wasn't someone pushing their bike over the crossing in the direction of the road.

Then agreed - if he remains on the road, Crank can never apply.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 01 September, 2010, 03:31:35 pm
Quote from: Access Legal guy on 01 September, 2010, 02:55:18 pm
Then agreed - if he remains on the road, Crank can never apply.

If he's on foot, he's a pedestrian whether he's on the "road" or on the "footway" (cf my previous comment about jaywalking).

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 01 September, 2010, 03:44:54 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 01 September, 2010, 03:31:35 pm
Quote from: Access Legal guy on 01 September, 2010, 02:55:18 pm
Then agreed - if he remains on the road, Crank can never apply.

If he's on foot, he's a pedestrian whether he's on the "road" or on the "footway" (cf my previous comment about jaywalking).

See the wording of s36 (1) of the 1988 Road Traffic Act I posted above.

If he's pushing a bicycle he could be considered to be 'propelling a vehicle' and so ignoring the stop line and red light could still be an offence.

I agree that a pedestrian without a bicycle can freely walk across a stop line at a red light. But the wording of that specific law does draw a distinction between a pedestrian without a bicycle and one pushing a bicycle.

Crank vs Brooks can't be applied in this case because, in the case of crossing a road pushing a bicycle, there is no signal or stop line that the person is failing to comply with.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 01 September, 2010, 03:51:09 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 01 September, 2010, 03:44:54 pm
If he's pushing a bicycle he could be considered to be 'propelling a vehicle' and so ignoring the stop line and red light could still be an offence.

It's certainly arguable but...

The reason I mentioned the jaywalking thing is to highlight the fact that there's no legal distinction between the "footway" and the "road" as far as pedestrians are concerned (unless you're talking about roads where pedestrians are specifically restricted such as motorways). Ergo surely Crank vs Brooks applies regardless of which bit of the road he's walking on?

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 01 September, 2010, 04:13:13 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 01 September, 2010, 03:51:09 pm
The reason I mentioned the jaywalking thing is to highlight the fact that there's no legal distinction between the "footway" and the "road" as far as pedestrians are concerned (unless you're talking about roads where pedestrians are specifically restricted such as motorways). Ergo surely Crank vs Brooks applies regardless of which bit of the road he's walking on?

There is a distinction at the point of the offence though; the stop-line. The offence in question can only be committed if he's on the road, since the stop line and traffic light does not apply to anything off the road on the pavement. He either crosses a stop-line (offence) or doesn't because he's on the pavement (no offence since he hasn't crossed the stop-line).

As far as I read it, it doesn't matter whether he is riding his bike or pushing it, if he pushes it over the stop line at a red light then he's committed the offence. A pedestrian couldn't be charged for the same offence because they aren't propelling a vehicle.

Crank vs Brooks relates to a different offence (I'm trying to find it to see how it was worded).

What I am wondering is that, if instead of pushing his bike over the stop-line, he lifts it onto the pavement, pushes it past the stop-line and red light before rejoining the road and continuing. If he does this then he hasn't committed the offence in question since he hasn't passed over the stop-line at a red light.

Take this junction right next to MI6 for example:

clicky (http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=vauxhall+bridge,+london&sll=53.800651,-4.064941&sspn=17.025991,39.506836&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Bridges,+Vauxhall+Underground+Station,+Vauxhall+Cross,+Vauxhall,+London+SW8+3JF,+United+Kingdom&ll=51.486621,-0.12454&spn=0.017477,0.038581&z=15&layer=c&cbll=51.486562,-0.124396&panoid=FJ_qfsrwBhFTqfYpi1S9bw&cbp=12,25.58,,0,15.31)

It's possible, without going over the stop line at the end of the ASL to turn off onto the pavement with a bit of a cycle lane, past the stop-line/traffic lights and either back onto the road the other side of the stop line, or even round the corner onto Albert Embankment and off the pavement after the second set of traffic lights. Legal or not? I can't see a reason why not...

[EDIT] I do that most days I use that route (it all depends on whether there is anyone at the pedestrian crossing, if there's anyone then I'll wait in the ASL box rather than mix with pedestrians). There's lots of police around those specific junctions and that building for some reason or another... ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 01 September, 2010, 04:18:08 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 01 September, 2010, 04:13:13 pm
the stop line and traffic light does not apply to anything off the road on the pavement.

The stop line and traffic lights don't apply to pedestrians at all. So the question comes back to whether or not he's a pedestrian...

That's the only question that matters, and I believe that question is answered by Crank vs Brook.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 01 September, 2010, 04:25:12 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 01 September, 2010, 04:18:08 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 01 September, 2010, 04:13:13 pm
the stop line and traffic light does not apply to anything off the road on the pavement.

The stop line and traffic lights don't apply to pedestrians at all. So the question comes back to whether or not he's a pedestrian...

That's the only question that matters, and I believe that question the is answered by Crank vs Brook.

On that matter, here's the opinion of the legal person above:-

Quote from: Access Legal guy on 01 September, 2010, 02:55:18 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 01 September, 2010, 12:58:11 pm
Quote from: Access Legal guy on 01 September, 2010, 12:54:11 pm
Is the brommie rider dismounting his cycle and then mounting a footway on foot to cross at a pedestrian crossing? if so, he has always been on foot while on the footway and as such crosses the junction as a pedestrian, if he then only remounts the cycle once dismounting the footway.

I'm not sure but I think he remained on the road at all times. He dismounts to push his bicycle over the stop line and then remounts to continue.

The Crank vs Brooks ruling was to prevent someone from being prosecuted for pushing their bicycle over a pedestrian crossing to cross the road from one side to the other (hence the 'having started from the pavement'). It wasn't someone pushing their bike over the crossing in the direction of the road.

Then agreed - if he remains on the road, Crank can never apply.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 01 September, 2010, 04:33:28 pm
With all due respect, ALG's opinion as expressed in a cycling forum is not legal precedent.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 September, 2010, 04:35:47 pm
No, but it's a fair interpretation of CvB, given the orientation of the action.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 01 September, 2010, 04:50:51 pm
I think it might be time for somebody to split your discussion off into another thread.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 01 September, 2010, 04:53:18 pm
Quote from: clarion on 01 September, 2010, 04:35:47 pm
No, but it's a fair interpretation of CvB, given the orientation of the action.

Agreed, but it's not the only fair interpretation. And in light of itsbruce's fair comment, that shall be my last word on the subject.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 01 September, 2010, 05:11:02 pm
OK, OK, I only just noticed citoyen's previous post:-

Quote from: citoyen on 01 September, 2010, 04:33:28 pm
With all due respect, ALG's opinion as expressed in a cycling forum is not legal precedent.

And, with all due respect, it's just your opinion as a layperson that the Crank vs Brooks ruling would apply as a precedent for this particular scenario.

It's just my opinion as a layperson that it doesn't.

Neither of us are lawyers, that's for sure.

ALG (I believe) is. .anth/blackpuddingonabike who posted ages ago on this subject definitely is.

Both of them think that it the Crank vs Brooks ruling wouldn't apply in this scenario because it's a different situation to the Crank vs Brooks case; it's not someone starting from off the road on a footpath and crossing the road wheeling their bike across a pedestrian crossing.

Quote from: blackpuddinonnabike on 21 November, 2008, 02:16:11 pm
Pushing through a red light, if you are still on the road, then you are still subject to that particular rule of the Highway. Moving onto the pavement to push past, however, you have become a foot passenger on the pavement, to which the red light does not apply.

Happy to continue the discussion on that thread (click the quote attribution to get to it) if you want although I don't think there's much left to discuss (as we're just disagreeing over a single point) and I've provided two opinions from legal representatives that back up my view and I can't find any that counter it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 01 September, 2010, 05:29:50 pm
On my way home tonight I could see a bloke and a little boy ahead of me. The little boy was so little I would have expected him to be on a pedal tractor or something, but he was on a teeny tiny mountain bike, no stabilisers, pedalling away, his wee legs going round so fast, and he wasn't wearing a helmet. (I'm making no judgment about that, I just mention it because I see so many tiny children on bikes or scooters or tractors or things wearing helmets). I assume the bloke was his dad. He was pedalling alongside very slowly, pulling a wheelie every so often, much to the wee boy's delight. The little boy looked like he was having the time of his life.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 01 September, 2010, 06:10:12 pm
What a contrast to last week!
I left work today at 5 and cycled home in glorious sunshine.  I was finding it hard to understand how on one day last week I left at 4:30 and had had to deploy full lighting front and rear!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 September, 2010, 08:15:06 pm
.anth is a sage enough authority for me.  I'll duck out of that discussion.

Meanwhile, that was a pretty fast ride home.  I feared that this morning's swift ride was enhanced by a wind I'd be facing on the way home.  But no.

And, where I had to do a right turn off the A232, a van driver just decided to give me space straight away, even though he could have driven on unhindered.  Thanks, chap, it's appreciated.  Sorry I didn't catch the company name.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 01 September, 2010, 09:24:05 pm
*Very* swift ride home, kept up with a bloke on a carbon Trek TT bike (the one with the rear brake hidden behind the chainstays) and a HED-3 front wheel.

I was *just* keeping up with him whilst he was probably dawdling home on a recovery ride keeping his HR in double figures but who cares. There was a glimmer of acknowledgment from him as I was still with him climbing over Putney Bridge given that we both pulled away from the lights at Vauxhall Bridge on Grosvenor Road at the same time.

Can't wait to see what the PowerTap gives me (I'll have to wait until I get into work tomorrow morning to find out).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 01 September, 2010, 09:42:27 pm
Coming through South Nutfield on the way home, I rounded a corner to  see the back of a pocket rocket BMW. You know, the ones that normally have a personalised number plate.  This one was doing about 10mph, because it wasn't safe for the driver to overtake the two cyclists in front.

I dunno, you just can't get the stereotypes these days.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 01 September, 2010, 10:48:22 pm
I had one close and fast overtake from a bus across double white lines, one driver on the phone who I blatantly filmed and got a beep and big thumbs up from another bus driver who saw this, and then one of those morons who tries to overtake and sweep you out of the way when you're all in a queue of traffic moving along. The stupids.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 01 September, 2010, 11:53:59 pm
I encountered a right muppet this evening on the way through Beckenham. Parked cars and traffic islands mean the road here is very narrow in places, so I always ride slap in the middle of the lane to discourage anyone who gets any funny ideas about overtaking - there just isn't room. But prat in a black Fiat behind me starts tooting anyway. Thing is, even if I'd been able to get out of his way to allow him past, there was a line of traffic queuing just a short way ahead...

I pass the traffic and fall in behind another rider who I've been following on and off since Dulwich. He's not pushing hard but he's big and very strong and going too fast for me to overtake, so I stay a little behind and to the side of him - not fully two abreast but just far enough out so I've got room for manoeuvre if he stops unexpectedly. Then we hit the small incline just before Shortlands and he slows suddenly. I'm on fixed, so my momentum starts to take me past him, except...

At that exact moment, Fiat idiot pulls alongside and starts shouting through the open passenger window at me, while also manoeuvring over towards the kerb, closing off my road space, even though there's actually room for him to pass safely at this point. I've got my headphones in, so it's just a garbled noise rather than words, and I studiously ignore him - not so much as a glance in his direction - but I'm forced to drop back to avoid being forced to clatter into the other chap. Once Fiat idiot is past us, he guns it off into the distance... well, at least as far as the next queue, all of a couple of hundred yards away.

I almost catch him again at Shortlands but thankfully the lights change before I reach him and he's off again. I'm happy to avoid another encounter. He sounds like a nasty piece of work. Let him burst a blood vessel if he wants, don't rise to it (or should that be "sink to his level"?), it's just not worth spoiling your ride over.

Good ride apart from that. I saw the familiar Wednesday crew on their way to wherever it is they do their training in their swish Rapha Condor kit. Herne Hill presumably. They were all on Cyclocross bikes or MTBs tonight. Quite envious I wasn't joining them, actually.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 02 September, 2010, 12:33:32 am
The level of motorised numptiness has definitely risen in south London today. A lot more traffic in the morning and I noticed motorists were aiming at smaller gaps than they have been over the last few weeks. Nearly taken out in Dulwich by a right-turning G-Wiz; however, from past experience I know that driver to be a complete idiot and can't ascribe his cretinry to increased congestion. On the return the propensity for Camberwell's motorists to drive straight through cyclists seems to have returned with a very determined left hook and bizarre sideswipe from separate drivers. Dulwich village was interesting again on the way home mainly due to drivers attempting to speed despite all the barriers to doing so comfortably or even successfully. Passed on College Road by a Belgian 4x4 who was leaving the ground over the bumps (but the police in the on-coming van didn't seem too phased) and squeezed at the junction with the south circular by an overtaking VW desperate to get up the arse of the taxi I was following. Unfortunately the driver was completely flummoxed by the toll gate and I was held up for considerably more time than she could have imagined she gained by bashing over all the sleeping policemen.

The cyclists I encountered today on the other hand, were far more relaxed and pleasant company than of late. Lots of RLJ, but far fewer felt the need to skim the shoulders of others to do so. Peoples willingness to roll in a pack rather than barge to the front at all costs also seemed to have increased.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 02 September, 2010, 05:46:34 am
I kept overtaking men on BSOs on the way home.  One had a t-shirt on that said "Tour of Devon".  I didn't have the heart to ask whether he knew he was in Wiltshire.

Riding in treacle and into a head wind was hard.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 02 September, 2010, 08:22:51 am
1 minute 45 seconds door-to-door today! I don't think I can do it any faster.

Cycling god.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 02 September, 2010, 09:54:33 am
Quote from: benborp on 02 September, 2010, 12:33:32 am
The level of motorised numptiness has definitely risen in south London today.

Definitely. Lots more traffic. Lots more numptiness. Summer is officially over.  :(

Quote
Passed on College Road ... Unfortunately the driver was completely flummoxed by the toll gate and I was held up for considerably more time than she could have imagined she gained by bashing over all the sleeping policemen.

Oh, that makes me so freakin' mad.  >:(

If there are cars behind me, I try to hog the road on the approach to the tollgate to avoid that problem but they still try to come round. They just don't get it. The sheer horror of having to wait behind a cyclist for just a couple of seconds is too much for some drivers to bear.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 02 September, 2010, 10:10:38 am
Had a cold yesterday.  It got worse during the day and the ride home was quite slow and snotty.  Couldn't go to the pub with cycling mates last night  :'(

Woke up this morning and after a bowl of porridge felt sort of ok, so decided to ride in.  Glad I did, it was a loverly day once the fog cleared.  Lacking a bit of zing on the hills but otherwise legs are working.  Got into work feeling still sort of ok

On account of the fog and my weakened state this was the first day wearing long tights in the morning
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 02 September, 2010, 10:28:35 am
Quote from: citoyen on 02 September, 2010, 09:54:33 am
Quote from: benborp on 02 September, 2010, 12:33:32 am
The level of motorised numptiness has definitely risen in south London today.

Definitely. Lots more traffic. Lots more numptiness. Summer is officially over.  :(

Quote
Passed on College Road ... Unfortunately the driver was completely flummoxed by the toll gate and I was held up for considerably more time than she could have imagined she gained by bashing over all the sleeping policemen.

Oh, that makes me so freakin' mad.  >:(

If there are cars behind me, I try to hog the road on the approach to the tollgate to avoid that problem but they still try to come round. They just don't get it. The sheer horror of having to wait behind a cyclist for just a couple of seconds is too much for some drivers to bear.

d.


Ah, the College Road shuffle. That's familiar. The roar, squeak and then crunch as they shave the top of another speed bump in their effort to - well, to be honest, I'm not sure what achievement they have in mind. But they have to overtake the cyclist before the next speedbump when inevitably the cyclist passes them. Over and over. We always arrive at the toll gate about the same time and, of course, at this point they have to stop because finding the change didn't occur to them. I mean, if you're in that much of a hurry...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 02 September, 2010, 10:48:17 am
Quote
The level of motorised numptiness has definitely risen

Have found many Car, Van and Bus drivers very cyclist tolarent and curtious at the moment..........Or pherhaps it's just me, Coming from Essex you get used to be seen as higher up the Food chain  O:-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 02 September, 2010, 10:58:01 am
Quote
Have found many Car, Van and Bus drivers very cyclist tolarent and curtious at the moment..........Or pherhaps it's just me, Coming from Essex you get used to be seen as higher up the Food chain 

I think Oakey & Christopher will back me up on this  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 02 September, 2010, 01:01:10 pm
A car with a Give Cyclists Room sticker FTW!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wascally Weasel on 02 September, 2010, 01:51:20 pm
With some of the schools now starting back in south west London, the wankpanzertruppen were mobilising for a recon in force this morning.  As well as longer queues etc, ASLs seemed to be full of motorcyclists today.  On two occasions I went in front and said “Sorry, I don’t want to breathe your fumes” because I didn’t.

At the junction of Victoria Embankment and Vauxhall Bridge Road several cyclists were ahead of the stop line and were being remonstrated with for doing so by a motorcyclist in the ASL – when it was explained that they were doing so because the ASL was blocked with motorbikes (which it was), he responded that “You all jump red lights”.  The irony of us being there to hear his idiocy was clearly lost on him.

The school holidays really are a blessed time for cyclists.  I’m glad I’m shortly off on holiday for a week, hopefully after a week or so everyone can all settle down again.  I think I’ll be back to starting off a half hour earlier again which helps avoid the worst of it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 02 September, 2010, 01:54:20 pm
Quote from: Wascally Weasel on 02 September, 2010, 01:51:20 pm
With some of the schools now starting back in south west London

Oh yes, very noticeable. Ah well, it makes those 6 weeks in the summer seem so good.

On top of motorbikes in ASLs there's also an increase in the number of scooters that try and filter through gaps they've got not chance of getting through, thus blocking the way for people who know they can get through (like most cyclists).

I'll fit the h*lm*t camera tomorrow for some fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lycra Man on 02 September, 2010, 02:29:44 pm
Set a new world record for my commute home last night. 49 minutes, 10 seconds, and I wasn't even trying that hard. Previous times in the 49 minute area (only twice before) have been heavily wind-assisted, so the Olympic judges that I imagine line my route would have raised several fluttering red flags. Last night - no wind, so the record is mine!

15.18 miles from Leighton Buzzard to Waddesdon. Two hills, two drops, and mostly country B-roads, so no traffic lights and no ASLs. Lucky me.

Lycra Man
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Christophe on 02 September, 2010, 02:36:25 pm
Quote from: Andyf on 02 September, 2010, 10:58:01 am
Quote
Have found many Car, Van and Bus drivers very cyclist tolarent and curtious at the moment..........Or pherhaps it's just me, Coming from Essex you get used to be seen as higher up the Food chain 

I think Oakey & Christopher will back me up on this  :thumbsup:

Not sure about that one Andy. More like further down! Give an Essex driver 400 yards and they'll try and brake the land speed record and worry about the consequences later.

Must say I've become quite calm and zen like on the bike just lately. No ranting or banging on car windows of old. I've just been ignoring all the crap that's been going on around me and getting on with the ride. Must be my age I think! :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 02 September, 2010, 02:40:03 pm
Quote from: Lycra Man on 02 September, 2010, 02:29:44 pm
Set a new world record for my commute home last night

Good work, reminds me! My commute home last night. I knew it was good!

Elapsed time: 29:01
Riding time: 26:33
Distance: 12.41km (the longer route round the back of Hurlingham)
Avg speed: 28.05kph
Max speed: 46.8kph
HR: avg=173bpm, max=188bpm
xPower (GC's equivalent to normalised power): 214W
Max power: 1124W
Peak 10s power: 798W
Peak 30s power: 524W
Peak 20m power: 198W

28.05kph avg speed is definitely not shabby for a commute in London traffic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 02 September, 2010, 02:43:22 pm
Quote from: Christophe on 02 September, 2010, 02:36:25 pm
Quote from: Andyf on 02 September, 2010, 10:58:01 am
Quote
Have found many Car, Van and Bus drivers very cyclist tolarent and curtious at the moment..........Or pherhaps it's just me, Coming from Essex you get used to be seen as higher up the Food chain 

I think Oakey & Christopher will back me up on this  :thumbsup:

Not sure about that one Andy. More like further down! Give an Essex driver 400 yards and they'll try and brake the land speed record and worry about the consequences later.

Must say I've become quite calm and zen like on the bike just lately. No ranting or banging on car windows of old. I've just been ignoring all the crap that's been going on around me and getting on with the ride. Must be my age I think! :smug:

I'm largely with Christophe --- of late, pretty much all of the dodgy overtakes I've experienced have been in Essex.

I'm slightly less Zen though - but I usually restrain myself to just shouting "Oi" and raising an arm in protest (or giving a pantomime shake of the head).  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 02 September, 2010, 02:44:26 pm
Pleasant ride in despite a large number of RLJs or people squeezing past me at junctions only to pedal away from the lights with all the speed of a legless tortoise, thus requiring me to pass them yet again.

One potential Darwin award winner who undertook me as I was slowing down behind a double decker bus and then proceeded to ride up the inside (i.e. left) of said bus. I guess it hadn't occurred to her that, having overtaken her, there was a reason why I had slowed down - namely that the bus was indicating left. Happily, the driver must have seen her as he braked sharply.. and she sailed on seemingly unaware.

It was OK, though. She had a helmet on  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 02 September, 2010, 06:04:49 pm
Quote
I'm largely with Christophe --- of late, pretty much all of the dodgy overtakes I've experienced have been in Essex.

 ??? Misunderstanding.........What i meant was that we Essex cyclists are higher on the food chain then erm....other cyclists and there for are more respected by our fellow road users..... :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 03 September, 2010, 07:05:11 am
Quote from: Andyf on 02 September, 2010, 06:04:49 pm
Quote
I'm largely with Christophe --- of late, pretty much all of the dodgy overtakes I've experienced have been in Essex.

 ??? Misunderstanding.........What i meant was that we Essex cyclists are higher on the food chain then erm....other cyclists and there for are more respected by our fellow road users..... :facepalm:

Anyone who dares ride in Southend Cycle Town deserves Respect
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 03 September, 2010, 07:23:27 am
Luckily my only experiance of Southend cycling is the end of the London - Southend bike ride, My commute is 2 miles in witham and nearly 11 in London per day  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 03 September, 2010, 07:38:00 am
For the last couple of days, even when cycling in treacle until I lubed the bottom bracket, my iPod has been throwing up Led Zep songs on shuffle so I have had a lovely time.  Kashmir even came on yesterday  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Christophe on 03 September, 2010, 08:39:15 am
Probably fastest commute I've had this morning. From stepping off the train at Liverpool St to Hyde Park Corner in 17 minutes.
Looking forward to the 105km ride home as well! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 03 September, 2010, 08:55:43 am
Quote
my iPod has been throwing up Led Zep songs

I fined a few select SLIPNOT tracks do it for me.........Cos my brain tells my legs "As soon as we get there he'll turn this s***t off...pedal farster!!!!" :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 03 September, 2010, 09:08:37 am
Yesterday morning, 'slow' people':I rode fast, 'fast' people: I rode half speed.  So zipped along the dual carriage way at the end. I arrived at work a few minutes early.

Yesterday evening I twiddled my pedals I discovered my legs were a little stiff and I huffed and puffed up the last two hills. So I will not be doing that again. Oh!

 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 September, 2010, 09:28:46 am
Yesterday, I wasn't on the commute, and needed to get to court without sweating, so I took the tourer and rode slowly.  It was fun, in its way.

Wednesday, I rode pretty quickly, but was passed more than normal.  The Tour de Commute is getting faster! :o

*thinks: Didn't I post something almost exactly the same last year?*

This morning was a splendid ride.  Just felt like great fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Zipperhead on 03 September, 2010, 10:04:22 am
I'm a little bit warm after this mormings ride.

I decided that the motorised commuters had been having it a little too much their own way, and the weather was (still!) nice, so I brought the trike in today.

No stupid overtakes, on the narrow roads all the cars hung back and waited until they could safely pass (or just waited if there was traffic ahead). Lovely.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 03 September, 2010, 11:21:58 am
Not sure what my movements will be later so decided to leave my bike at my home station and take a Boris Bike from Victoria to the office, but nearly didn't succed in this endeavour. Inserted my key into the slot and got a red light. Tried another and got another red light. Inserted key into the slot in the terminal and got the message that my key was invalid.  ???

So I called the number on the terminal... Turns out it was just a case of not having auto-renew activated, thanks to the crapness of the website (I'd previously tried to activate it and thought I'd succeeded but clearly not). Fortunately, it only took the chap on the other end of the phone 30 seconds to rectify this, so I was soon on my way.

I do like the Boris Bikes. Because they're so heavy and under-geared, they force you to go slow, so you just have to go with the flow and cruise along serenely. That and the very upright riding position means you feel quite stately - almost regal. And it's a warm, sunny morning, perfect for a ride along the South Bank. Marvellous way to start the day.  :thumbsup:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: darkpoint on 03 September, 2010, 11:27:57 am
Stopped to help a chap in Dulwich this morning,  his chain had jumped off and tangled in itself.     He thought he would have to walk home and then get the train to work this morning as no one would ever fix it..
I couldn’t work out how it had become tangled either, but I did spot the quick release link, so broke the chain, untangled it, and put it all back together.

I really must remember to restock the latex maintenance gloves in my tool kit so that I don't have oily hands for the rest of the day again.
Otherwise the sun was shining and it was another nice ride in..
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 September, 2010, 11:28:30 am
Good man! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 03 September, 2010, 11:31:14 am
Quote from: darkpoint on 03 September, 2010, 11:27:57 am
Stopped to help a chap in Dulwich this morning,  his chain had jumped off and tangled in itself.     He thought he would have to walk home and then get the train to work this morning as no one would ever fix it..
I couldn’t work out how it had become tangled either, but I did spot the quick release link, so broke the chain, untangled it, and put it all back together.

I really must remember to restock the latex maintenance gloves in my tool kit so that I don't have oily hands for the rest of the day again.
Otherwise the sun was shining and it was another nice ride in..

Extra points for that. But it's when those gloves pop out as I'm fossicking for something else that I start getting strange looks and the "What do you need THOSE for???"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 03 September, 2010, 12:33:17 pm
Quote from: Ham on 03 September, 2010, 11:31:14 am

Extra points for that. But it's when those gloves pop out as I'm fossicking for something else that I start getting strange looks and the "What do you need THOSE for???"

I should invest in some of those.  I find that most bicycle oils and greases make me feel a bit ill (and sting a bit) when they get on my hands.  I suppose this is because they're all synthetic oils with various unpleasant additiives.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 03 September, 2010, 12:43:30 pm
I recently bought a box of 100 from Lakeland for a tenner so I always have a few handy in my saddlebag. You can get them even cheaper than that online. Well worth the investment.

I also keep a few antiseptic wipes in my saddlebag.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 03 September, 2010, 12:46:59 pm
Quote from: Christophe on 03 September, 2010, 08:39:15 am
Probably fastest commute I've had this morning. From stepping off the train at Liverpool St to Hyde Park Corner in 17 minutes.
Looking forward to the 105km ride home as well! :thumbsup:

I hope you're logging all this for the yacf team at bikejournal! ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 03 September, 2010, 12:49:58 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 03 September, 2010, 12:43:30 pm
I recently bought a box of 100 from Lakeland for a tenner so I always have a few handy in my saddlebag. You can get them even cheaper than that online. Well worth the investment.

I also keep a few antiseptic wipes in my saddlebag.

d.


Screwfix Blue Latex FIS Disposable Gloves (L) Pack of 100 - Screwfix.com, Where the Trade Buys (http://www.screwfix.com/prods/56137/Workwear-PPE/Protective-Clothing/Gloves/Latex-Gloves-L-Pk100)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 03 September, 2010, 12:57:38 pm
Most local pharmacies will have them. Last box of 100 I bought was only £6, plus they let me try on a few from their own stocks to make sure I got the right size.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 03 September, 2010, 01:26:12 pm
And if you want nitrile - don't disintegrate as quickly as latex, or if you're allergic to latex - then try a hairdresser's supply shop.  They're more likely to have medium and small sizes - unlike screwfix's.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 September, 2010, 01:31:31 pm
I carry one.  But I almost invariably forget to use it :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 03 September, 2010, 01:48:57 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 03 September, 2010, 01:26:12 pm
And if you want nitrile - don't disintegrate as quickly as latex, or if you're allergic to latex - then try a hairdresser's supply shop.  They're more likely to have medium and small sizes - unlike screwfix's.

Google for nitrile gloves - there are plenty of online suppliers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 03 September, 2010, 02:17:15 pm
I had one of those "yikes" moments accelerating on a roundabout when my rear wheel repositioned itself a jammed against the chainstays (I'd tensioned the chain last night but obviously not tighthened the nuts quite enough).

Happily a very nice chap in a white van held back until I could lurch over to the kerb.

Took it a little easier on the pedals for the rest of the ride in!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 03 September, 2010, 02:32:36 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 03 September, 2010, 01:26:12 pm
And if you want nitrile - don't disintegrate as quickly as latex
You should buy nitrile as standard. Many people don't discover they are allergic to latex until they put latex gloves on. And if you weren't allergic to latex last time, don't assume you won't be next time - I've known people who have worn latex ones for years and then suddenly had breakouts of sores. This included the guy who refused to wear nitrile ones because "they were for pansies". Latex sores on your hands can be very nasty...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 03 September, 2010, 04:19:22 pm
I assumed everyone pinched them from work, like I do. I even have a ready supply of full arm length if I so desired.
Gloves & blue roll are my perk of choice. I understand others go in for stationery but I'm fussy in that dept.
Back OT my commute this week has been entirely motorised which does not make me happy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 03 September, 2010, 06:40:41 pm
On the way home I met a lycra-clad MercuryKev, deflected from his normal route by a duathlon. I suggested he should have gone round Arthur's Seat anyway and maybe ended up in a race, but he wasn't keen. Nobody ever takes my best ideas.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 03 September, 2010, 09:32:09 pm
I went back into work today, after working from home for a couple of days after being knocked off.  At the end of the day, I checked the bike, which had been hanging at work since Tuesday.  Bike was fine and I felt OK, so I took it for a test ride.  Home.

All seems good.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 03 September, 2010, 09:34:53 pm
Rode the MTB 2 miles to the local yocal station today for a change.
Rode the MTB 2 miles home too.
Next week land training starts on Friday evenings at the swimming club.
Tonight we just had swimming training.
2 kms in the pool sees me knackered now.  I wore my HRM and used 854 kcals in the hour session.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Christophe on 06 September, 2010, 08:07:53 am
Great ride home on Friday night. 104km Hyde Park Corner to Witham via Little Baddow and North Hill.
Once out in the stix alot of harvesting action going on, combining and stubble burning and dodging tractors laden with wheat.  Once it was dark (and it was DARK! on Friday night) plenty of bat attacks and a couple of clonks on the helmet from a few of strays. Great sight of a deer in the road munching on someones garden hedge in High Easter. When it spotted me it leisurly trotted round in to the front garden and continued it's meal!
Not normally a great music listener on the bike (occasionally have the footy on the radio if out on an audax) but had a bit of a Rush evening. Had a brilliant time cycling in the dark listening to 2112 and Hemispheres.
All in all a great night out!

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 06 September, 2010, 08:51:54 am
Quote
Little Baddow and North Hill

Managed 42mph down North hill yesterday  :sick:

Commuted in today with my new Diadora arctic Cycle boots (with spd cleats)
I'm looking forword to 6-7 months of dry warm feet  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 06 September, 2010, 09:07:10 am
Quote from: Andyf on 06 September, 2010, 08:51:54 am
...Commuted in today with my new Diadora arctic Cycle boots (with spd cleats) ...

Looks out the window... checks the weather for Essex...

Why?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 06 September, 2010, 09:07:33 am
Quote from: Andyf on 06 September, 2010, 08:51:54 am
Commuted in today with my new Diadora arctic Cycle boots (with spd cleats)
I'm looking forword to 6-7 months of dry warm feet  :smug:


Some of us are still using sandals (sans socks, obviously).  :smug:

Speaking of socks... I've seen something worse than sandals and socks.  Passed a roadie this morning (who was most upset at being passed by someone on a pannier-laden hybrid) who was wearing knee-high black dress socks along with his cycling kit (lycra, etc).   :sick:  And not only should the fashion police be after him, but the regular rozzers as well — he was also a RLJ.

I think I've finally sorted out my position on the hybrid — I was comfortable enough to easily cruise along at 20mph without having to pedal like a maniac.  The Ribble will feel so nice after a week of the hybrid (once I finish fettling the former).
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 06 September, 2010, 09:25:31 am
Yes, still in sandals here, though I'm guessing it won't be long before I'll be committing the sandal/sock crime thing (and stopping half a mile from civilization to remove the socks).  And a bit longer still before the shoes have to be used.  Not looking forward to that.

Perhaps the roadie was wearing compression socks Andrij.  If so, perhaps he can be forgiven them (but not the RLJing).

Very mild today but windy and a threatening sky which reddened rather than lightened.  The rain started after I'd arrived.  Looks like I won't miss it this evening though.  Never mind.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 06 September, 2010, 09:28:32 am
Quote from: Nuncio on 06 September, 2010, 09:25:31 am

Perhaps the roadie was wearing compression socks Andrij.  If so, perhaps he can be forgiven them (but not the RLJing).


Nope, definitely no compression socks.  I've seen those before, modelled by our own pixieannie.  These were definitely regular socks, though I'll admit he may have been using them as compression socks.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 06 September, 2010, 09:37:39 am
In the 20mph section in Trull I was doing just over 20mph and overtook several cars.

Then it goes to 30mph and slightly uphill. I put a bit of speed on as cars often pass me at this point and then stop ahead of me, blocking the road in order to turn right.

The road then levels out for 50m and there is a mini roundabout

Black car over took me just before a mini roundabout.  But of course it then got stuck in the queue at the roundabout.  I overtook it and 3 other cars and then went straight across the roundabout.  The two cars behind me must have turned left as the black car was then behind me sounding it's horn.  

My road positioning and maneuvering seemed ok, I think they were just pissed off that I'd overtaken them, maybe twice, they could have been in the queue in the 20mph zone

I moved to a central road position so the black car didn't try and squeeze past and cut my speed downhill to about 10 mph.  Then 10 metres later, I indicated for a right turn and turned off.  I'm afraid that this is often the effect of a car horn on me.  I have to slow up and block the road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 06 September, 2010, 09:43:24 am
First ride in since I was knocked off last Tuesday.  Uneventful, made good time.  The new stem/bars combo is working well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 06 September, 2010, 09:54:05 am
Quote
Looks out the window... checks the weather for Essex...

Why?

Allways good to test run new kit (especially when they are as cool as these boots are), and have you seen the weather report for the rest of the week  :'( .
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cyclone on 06 September, 2010, 09:57:20 am
First time back in longs for months  :'( - That was the south Walian tan for the year then....
Headwind and lack of sleep = grovel to work...Hopefully the direction will stay the same and wee... :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 06 September, 2010, 10:00:33 am
You'll likely be getting wee'd on on the way home.   ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 06 September, 2010, 10:11:14 am
Only slightly, the big downpour is due to hit London shortly after I'm home. I don't mind commuting in the rain though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 06 September, 2010, 10:18:32 am
But cyclone is in Swansea, so probably not slightly.   If the wind hasn't changed direction, he'll be wet and wee'ing as I'll be wet and wheezing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 06 September, 2010, 10:25:39 am
You can tell the summer's over. I've not seen that much traffic for months!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 06 September, 2010, 11:47:13 am
Rear ended (fairly gently) again at the Elephant and Castle. I was stopped behind another car and fortunately just lifting my rear wheel to get the cranks set to move off when the driver of the van approaching the queue of traffic attempted to insert the nose of his vehicle down my right side. There was not enough space. A little buckle in the rear wheel which I dealt with for the time being by loosening off the brakes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: redshift on 07 September, 2010, 12:52:11 am
So, a headwind going into work and a late finish, what else was there today?

Oh yes, there was a headwind coming home too.

There was also rain.


And just to complete my day, a puncture.


Grump.  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 07 September, 2010, 07:35:19 am
London's blocked up (but moving) at 6:30 am allready, Mr Crow what does it feel like to know that 5-6 million people think you are an A***e**le, .....man that is bad karma  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 07 September, 2010, 08:04:51 am
Quote from: Andyf on 07 September, 2010, 07:35:19 am
London's blocked up (but moving) at 6:30 am allready, Mr Crow what does it feel like to know that 5-6 million people think you are an A***e**le, .....man that is bad karma  :demon:

Quoted from Bob Crow: 'These aren't just crocodile tears, we are genuinely sorry for the disruption'. Yeah right. There is a special kind of hell being kept for Mr Crow... :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 07 September, 2010, 08:16:36 am
Yep, London's roads are a bit 'full' this morning.  Still made good time in spite of 3 numpties, 2 who caused emergency stops.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 07 September, 2010, 08:17:10 am
No, wrong attitude!  We should be grateful - he's helping to show all those stressed and stuck commuters just how lucky/clever/sensible/fast and better off all us cyclists are.  That'll help get more cyclists out there, which is brilliant for all of us thanks to safety in numbers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 07 September, 2010, 08:40:05 am
Quote
No, wrong attitude!  We should be grateful - he's helping to show all those stressed and stuck commuters just how lucky/clever/sensible/fast and better off all us cyclists are.  That'll help get more cyclists out there, which is brilliant for all of us thanks to safety in numbers.

Your totally right, Everyone said to me at work " you will be allright you cycle"...well you can to!!! but he is still an A******* :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 07 September, 2010, 08:57:27 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 07 September, 2010, 08:04:51 am
Quote from: Andyf on 07 September, 2010, 07:35:19 am
London's blocked up (but moving) at 6:30 am allready, Mr Crow what does it feel like to know that 5-6 million people think you are an A***e**le, .....man that is bad karma  :demon:

Quoted from Bob Crow: 'These aren't just crocodile tears, we are genuinely sorry for the disruption'. Yeah right. There is a special kind of hell being kept for Mr Crow... :demon:

And from today's Pearls Before Swine (one of my favourite cartoons):


(http://lh5.ggpht.com/__5EyI8Ck-Lw/TIXvzJTTcZI/AAAAAAAAZBI/Rpfw1i3aJEs/s640/Pearls%20Before%20Swine%20free%20online%20comic%20strip%20library%20at%20comics.com%20-%20Opera%2007092010%20085403.jpg)

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 07 September, 2010, 09:10:01 am
Quote from: Andyf on 07 September, 2010, 08:40:05 am
Quote
No, wrong attitude!  We should be grateful - he's helping to show all those stressed and stuck commuters just how lucky/clever/sensible/fast and better off all us cyclists are.  That'll help get more cyclists out there, which is brilliant for all of us thanks to safety in numbers.

Your totally right, Everyone said to me at work " you will be allright you cycle"...well you can to!!! but he is still an A******* :demon:

If you feel that way, you could also take pleasure from the possibility of a few more tube strikes, and a lot more cyclist converts, and he'll be striking about even more job losses.  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 September, 2010, 09:14:33 am
I didn't know that there was going to be a tube strike.  Unusually the London British Broadcasting Corporation didn't think that disruption to a few numpties in a corner of the country was the most important news story in the world.

But the A3 was pretty gridlocked, and the motor traffic was at that level that it did affect my commute time (normally it only makes a marginal difference).  If I had decided to take the car, like a lot of zombies out there, I would still be on the road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 07 September, 2010, 09:51:12 am
My assistant at work spent £20 on a taxi that took her an hour to get from Clapham to Waterloo this morning. She said she was really envious of all the cyclists she could see, but is very nervous about the thought of cycling in, so I pounced!

It's our annual flexi-benefits make-your-mind-up time, so I'm going to help her choose a bike on the cycle to work scheme. Lambeth, where she lives, subsidises CTUK cycle training (£8 for 2 hours, what a bargain). I will work out a route for her and will buddy her in.

We may have a new convert. And the strikes were the reason I started cycle commuting seven years ago. Thanks, Mr Crowe.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 September, 2010, 09:52:05 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 07 September, 2010, 08:04:51 am
Quote from: Andyf on 07 September, 2010, 07:35:19 am
London's blocked up (but moving) at 6:30 am allready, Mr Crow what does it feel like to know that 5-6 million people think you are an A***e**le, .....man that is bad karma  :demon:

Quoted from Bob Crow: 'These aren't just crocodile tears, we are genuinely sorry for the disruption'. Yeah right. There is a special kind of hell being kept for Mr Crow... :demon:


Quote from: Bob Crow
The message to the mayor and his transport officials is clear - stop playing fast and loose with safety, stop the drive towards unstaffed stations, drop the threat of these lethal cuts and start meaningful talks on a safe and secure future for the London Tube system

Yeah - what an A***e**le!* ::-)





* Yeah, I don't know why there are so many asterisks, either.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 07 September, 2010, 09:54:30 am
Ooh, that was fun. This wasn't the day to be doing my usual aggressive filtering. My 28 minute commute was 32 minutes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 07 September, 2010, 09:57:20 am
Quote from: Greenbank on 07 September, 2010, 09:54:30 am
Ooh, that was fun. This wasn't the day to be doing my usual aggressive filtering. My 28 minute commute was 32 minutes.

Think how much slower you'd have been if you didn't have that song in your head :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 07 September, 2010, 10:04:39 am
Oh. My. Word.

Some of the riding I saw today was beyond atrocious. No words. Really no words.

After about two miles I just gave up trying to be fast and concentrated on being safe.

The cars were pretty bad, loads of little back streets on the first part of my commute and the drivers were trying so hard to zip along like those adverts show, but it was also bin day across that part of the borough...

Avoid anyone wearing football shorts, that's the only advice I can give.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 September, 2010, 10:14:11 am
Not just them.

I have news for Bianchi riders:

THE LAW APPLIES TO YOU!

Don't ride like a cock.

Oh - and having tribars on your hybrid does not give you priority.  I know it was childish, but I did have fun getting back at you.  You think this is bunch racing?  Well how do you like being boxed in?  Childish, yes.  But nowhere near as dangerous as what you were doing to people.  You knew what I was doing and you knew why.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 07 September, 2010, 10:18:54 am
Quote from: little miss mac on 07 September, 2010, 09:51:12 am
My assistant at work spent £20 on a taxi that took her an hour to get from Clapham to Waterloo this morning. She said she was really envious of all the cyclists she could see, but is very nervous about the thought of cycling in, so I pounced!

It's our annual flexi-benefits make-your-mind-up time, so I'm going to help her choose a bike on the cycle to work scheme. Lambeth, where she lives, subsidises CTUK cycle training (£8 for 2 hours, what a bargain). I will work out a route for her and will buddy her in.

We may have a new convert. And the strikes were the reason I started cycle commuting seven years ago. Thanks, Mr Crowe.  :thumbsup:

Don't forget the road cycle training from CTUK http://www.cycletraining.co.uk/  - free to anyone who works or lives in London Cycle training | Cycling | Transport for London (http://www.tfl.gov.uk/roadusers/cycling/11689.aspx)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 07 September, 2010, 10:31:04 am
Quote from: little miss mac on 07 September, 2010, 09:51:12 am
My assistant at work spent £20 on a taxi that took her an hour to get from Clapham to Waterloo this morning.

Clapham to Waterloo?

That's about three miles, isn't it?

Roughly the distance a normal healthy person could easily walk in an hour?

 :facepalm:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 07 September, 2010, 10:34:47 am
Quote from: citoyen on 07 September, 2010, 10:31:04 am
Quote from: little miss mac on 07 September, 2010, 09:51:12 am
My assistant at work spent £20 on a taxi that took her an hour to get from Clapham to Waterloo this morning.

Clapham to Waterloo?

That's about three miles, isn't it?

Roughly the distance a normal healthy person could easily walk in an hour?

And you can't be more than a mile from a station (Wandsworth Road, Clapham High St, Wandsworth Common, Brixton, Balham) that has either direct trains to Waterloo or at least to Clapham Junction where you can change. It'd take under an hour all in and cost much less than £20.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 07 September, 2010, 10:36:09 am
Dear Mr Crow,

Please stick this in your strike and smoke it. (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=22914.msg640624#msg640624)

Yours faithfully,
Oaky
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 September, 2010, 10:38:09 am
People make strange choices.  When I worked near Parliament, one of my staff was persistently late, as she took a tube from Borough.  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 07 September, 2010, 10:38:34 am
Quote from: Greenbank on 07 September, 2010, 10:34:47 am
Quote from: citoyen on 07 September, 2010, 10:31:04 am
Quote from: little miss mac on 07 September, 2010, 09:51:12 am
My assistant at work spent £20 on a taxi that took her an hour to get from Clapham to Waterloo this morning.

Clapham to Waterloo?

That's about three miles, isn't it?

Roughly the distance a normal healthy person could easily walk in an hour?

And you can't be more than a mile from a station (Wandsworth Road, Clapham High St, Wandsworth Common, Brixton, Balham) that has either direct trains to Waterloo or at least to Clapham Junction where you can change. It'd take under an hour all in and cost much less than £20.

I know, I know. I don't think it would occur to her to walk. To be fair, Clapham Junction was apparently the seventh circle of hell this morning.

But small steps, eh? Once she's on a bike her understanding of relative distances, and what's possible without a train, will change considerably.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 September, 2010, 10:40:04 am
Quote from: Oaky on 07 September, 2010, 10:36:09 am
Dear Mr Crow,

Please stick this in your strike and smoke it. (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=22914.msg640624#msg640624)

Yours faithfully,
Oaky

At least CC Boris in on this.  It's probably another of his pro-cycling initiatives, to make ridiculous proposals to reduce staffing to unsafe levels on the tube and provoke withdrawals of service, so people realise how good bikes are.  The man's a genius, I'm telling you! ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 07 September, 2010, 10:43:38 am
Lady cyclist, shouting at cyclists in front of you that the light is green so they should go - there were schoolkids crossing in front of them. Were they supposed to just ram into them?

LMM, you probably already know but it is possible to cycle from Stockwell (ie not far from Clapham) to Waterloo almost entirely on quiet back streets, if she is nervous when she starts. I use a quiet NCN route when I don't care about speed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 07 September, 2010, 10:44:52 am
Quote from: clarion on 07 September, 2010, 10:38:09 am
People make strange choices.  When I worked near Parliament, one of my staff was persistently late, as she took a tube from Borough.  ::-)

Lots of people just don't understand how small central London is.  I think many folks assume that because there is a tube train between two points that that automatically means it must be too far to walk.

I'd get funny looks all the time for walking from Liverpool street to Barbican/Farringdon or from Barbican to Holborn/Covent Garden etc.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 07 September, 2010, 10:59:19 am
Some people just aren't very good at thinking things through.

M'colleague walks to London Bridge every day to get a tube to Moorgate, where he switches to a mainline train. It's a bit over half a mile to London Bridge station. Then you have to factor in going up and down the escalators, waiting for a train etc. Probably takes 20-25 minutes to get to Moorgate - and that's when the Northern Line is running smoothly.

The shortest walking route to Moorgate from the office is a little over a mile.

Like, do the math.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 07 September, 2010, 11:01:56 am
<presses a few buttons> "Is it 12 miles?"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 07 September, 2010, 11:40:23 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 07 September, 2010, 10:43:38 am
Lady cyclist, shouting at cyclists in front of you that the light is green so they should go - there were schoolkids crossing in front of them. Were they supposed to just ram into them?

LMM, you probably already know but it is possible to cycle from Stockwell (ie not far from Clapham) to Waterloo almost entirely on quiet back streets, if she is nervous when she starts. I use a quiet NCN route when I don't care about speed.

Yes I use Route (LCN) 3 to get from Waterloo to Kennington to Clapham, its a fab route and you get to see some rather posh parts of London  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 07 September, 2010, 11:40:45 am
I was hit by a car on the way into work this morning.  >:(

Dozy cow in a people carrier with obese, window-licking spawn in the back turned right across me.  Luckily my LEET ninja cycling skills meant that I could fling the bike round and I hit her side on.

Both the bike and I came out of it unscathed – although I may bruise later.  My foot made a large dent in the side of her car.  :demon:

I’m afraid that I lost it a little and used some choice language in addressing her.  She then had the bare faced cheek to complain that I made her offspring cry!  I suggested it may be her crap driving that is really to blame…  >:( >:( >:(

Her excuse…SMIDSY!  How the feck can you miss a lard arse like me coming in the opposite direction you dozy bint?  I’m not exactly slim and sylph like…  >:(

I’ve reported it to the police – but don’t expect anything to come of it.

I hate it now the fecking school run is back…  >:( >:( >:( >:( >:( >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 September, 2010, 11:46:36 am
That's awful.

Making the kiddies cry like that, you evil invisible man, you! ;D

Make sure you go get yourself and your bike properly checked over.  Hope all heals soon, though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 07 September, 2010, 11:47:48 am
Significantly more cyclists on the road than usual, many of them muppets.  At the point where Gloucester Road crosses Cromwell road, a bloke in a tourer crashed across just as the lights changed and was visibly unhappy to be passed again.  He plonked himself in the middle of the road, mashing and clanking up through the gears, convinced he could justify his position as soon as he found the right gear.  Wrong.

On the way home, last night, I found myself behind a girl whose pedalling style was so knock-kneed I think her kneecaps were poking through the opposite side of the frame.

Quote from: Regulator on 07 September, 2010, 11:40:45 am
I was hit by a car on the way into work this morning.  >:(

Good to hear you came through OK.  Hope you are not now one huge bruise, as I was last week ;)  Agree with you about the school run.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ScumOfTheRoad on 07 September, 2010, 11:51:26 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 07 September, 2010, 11:47:48 am

On the way home, last night, I found myself behind a girl

A likely story. Remember the restraining order, Bruce.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 07 September, 2010, 11:53:54 am
Quote from: clarion on 07 September, 2010, 11:46:36 am
That's awful.

Making the kiddies cry like that, you evil invisible man, you! ;D

Make sure you go get yourself and your bike properly checked over.  Hope all heals soon, though.

I got checked over at work (I was a little worried about my right shoulder) but I'm fine.  Luckily I cushioned the bike from impacting with the car and was going slow enough, thanks to my evasive manoeuvre, not to impact too hard.

I more pissed off than anything.  Drivers like her have no place on the road.   >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 07 September, 2010, 11:54:54 am
Quote from: Regulator on 07 September, 2010, 11:40:45 am
I was hit by a car on the way into work this morning.  >:(


Ouch!  Hope the bruising isn't too bad.  :-*

As for the bike, it's a total write-off and will need to be replace.  If you need help disposing of the old bike just give me a call. ;)
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 07 September, 2010, 12:15:33 pm
Quote from: clarion on 07 September, 2010, 10:40:04 am
Quote from: Oaky on 07 September, 2010, 10:36:09 am
Dear Mr Crow,

Please stick this in your strike and smoke it. (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=22914.msg640624#msg640624)

Yours faithfully,
Oaky

At least CC Boris in on this.  It's probably another of his pro-cycling initiatives, to make ridiculous proposals to reduce staffing to unsafe levels on the tube and provoke withdrawals of service, so people realise how good bikes are.  The man's a genius, I'm telling you! ;)

Bob Crow was on C4 news last night.  He tried to argue the strike was about job losses but, when he was put on the spot, admitted that LU have said there will be no job losses amongst front line staff in the forseeable future (LU have said no redundancies amongst front line staff until after the Olympics in 2012 at the earliest - in fact they're taking on additional front line staff). 

The proposals relating to ticket office staff are about retasking and redployment rather than redundancies.  Any redundancies in LU in the near future will be amongst back office HQ staff.

Crow gave no cogent reason for there being a strike.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 September, 2010, 12:18:24 pm
That's not even what LU are saying.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 07 September, 2010, 12:23:38 pm
BBC News - London Underground strike causes severe disruption (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-11209522)

Quote
A TfL spokesman said there had been an extra 2,000 completed journeys using the city's cycle hire scheme between 0800 BST and 0900 BST, compared to the same time on Monday, a rise of about 60%.

 :thumbsup:

Quote
But outside Kings Cross station in central London, frustrated commuters gathered, trying to work out how to get to work by alternative means.

Some people really aren't very resourceful, are they.  ::-)

Quote
Sarah Fenton, 34, from Hertford, said: "We're being held to ransom by the strikers.

"It's unfair on the public who are trying to get to work so we don't lose our jobs."

Perhaps you'd have less problem holding onto your job if you joined a union yourself.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 07 September, 2010, 12:32:51 pm
Quote from: clarion on 07 September, 2010, 12:18:24 pm
That's not even what LU are saying.

Quote
"Londoners will doubtless find it incredible that the two union leaderships are pursing this action when they have been given cast-iron assurances that the staffing changes we are making come with no compulsory redundancies, that every station that currently has a ticket office will retain one, and that every station will remain staffed at all times."

Mike Brown, LU spokesman (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-11209522)

More here as well (http://news.bbc.co.uk/local/london/hi/people_and_places/newsid_8964000/8964788.stm)

Quote
"LU says there will be no compulsory redundancies and staff will be redeployed."


And you can even watch Bob Crow floundering on the C4 news (http://www.channel4.com/news/catch-up/) (end of part 2)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 07 September, 2010, 12:43:00 pm
Quote from: Regulator on 07 September, 2010, 12:32:51 pm
Quote from: clarion on 07 September, 2010, 12:18:24 pm
That's not even what LU are saying.

Quote
"Londoners will doubtless find it incredible that the two union leaderships are pursing this action when they have been given cast-iron assurances that the staffing changes we are making come with no compulsory redundancies, that every station that currently has a ticket office will retain one, and that every station will remain staffed at all times."

Mike Brown, LU spokesman (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-11209522)

Well, you'd expect Management to say something like that.  ::-)   ;D

 
I'm still trying to figure out why Crow's "24hr strikes" can't run, say, from 5am to 5am, thereby only disrupting the Tube for 1 day.  Oh, I know — his way causes more disruption.

Mr. Crow, your strikes and your strike methodology upsets Tube users.  But — and here's the important bit — their anger is directed at you and the strikers, not Management.*  Sorry, try again.

*Except those who believe striking workers are always in the right and Management is always out to screw the the down-trodden proletariat.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 07 September, 2010, 12:48:11 pm
Interesting bit here... (http://www.channel4.com/news/articles/business_money/travel+chaos+warnings+over+london+underground+strike/3761277)  :demon:

Quote
"...Boris Johnson is going back on an earlier commitment here – but the truth is Ken Livingstone was closing ticket offices before him".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 September, 2010, 12:49:16 pm
Actually, in this case, the ones who will suffer most if LU plans go ahead are the travelling public, but they never seem to realise that.  You're right - the kneejerk hatred of Bob Crow is ridiculous.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 September, 2010, 12:54:10 pm
Quote from: Regulator on 07 September, 2010, 12:48:11 pm
Interesting bit here... (http://www.channel4.com/news/articles/business_money/travel+chaos+warnings+over+london+underground+strike/3761277)  :demon:

Quote
"...Boris Johnson is going back on an earlier commitment here – but the truth is Ken Livingstone was closing ticket offices before him".

That's a quote from Tony Travers, you forgot to mention.  He's a rentagob for the right on this issue.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 07 September, 2010, 01:18:19 pm
Hmmm

Are there transportation issues in that thar Londonton today then?

 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 07 September, 2010, 01:20:57 pm
Yes, and long may they continue.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 07 September, 2010, 02:10:42 pm
Quote from: tonycollinet on 07 September, 2010, 01:18:19 pm
Are there transportation issues in that thar Londonton today then?

Not for everyone.  :smug:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 September, 2010, 02:28:38 pm
I took a whole three extra minutes this morning compared to yesterday.  It's chaos out there! ;D :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 07 September, 2010, 02:47:09 pm
It took me five minutes extra today not because of a strike but the skoolz r bak and I pass four of these exam factories on my current route to work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 07 September, 2010, 02:54:10 pm
It took me 25 minutes extra today for my 2 mile commute  :'(

That's because I had to come in by car - had to drop my son at the station on the way and he refused to go on the tandem because it was raining...

I'm looking forward to filtering past all the school run queues tomorrow when I'll be back to my bike and covering the route in the usual 9 minutes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Zipperhead on 07 September, 2010, 07:40:29 pm
I was expecting stupidity today, but my expectations were exceeded.....

Apart from the run of the mill idiots on bicycles, there were a couple who really stood out. The first was the guy who cycled through a red light, because he was looking at his iDeath. Luckily for him there was nothing coming across.

He though appeared to be a bastion of intellect compared to the "cyclist" who came out of the McDonalds. His left hand was holding the phone that he was chatting on, his right hand was holding his coffee. Sadly for parts of the film industry his schlong wasn't long enough to steer with.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 07 September, 2010, 07:44:00 pm
I didin't notice that many extra bikes on the road this morning, although I was probably a couple of hours ahead of the peak.  Looking out the window, the streets seem fairly quiet so it may be a peaceful ride hiome  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 07 September, 2010, 08:09:00 pm
Saw a few extra bikes both this morning and this afternoon including some obviously not confident riders, but no real stand-out idiocy.

Lots more motor traffic though, which didn't really slow me down, most of it being in places where I could safely overtake/filter on the right.  Some of the cars seemed unsure about what they were doing too (unused to driving in London rush-hour, I assume) - I was stuck behind a crawling Audi A3 on my approach to Liverpool St.  I assume they were lost/looking for a turning, but I couldn't get past owing to the ring-of-steel buildouts in the road for the police checkpoint.

The main difference, though, was the hordes of pedestrians, often weaving out into the road, crossing without looking etc.  I was able to give most of these wide berths though, although I had to brake for one pavement chicken1 who decided to run across in front of me on Fleet St.
1. terminology shamelessly nicked from another post (by iddu, IIRC).

Despite this I think I was quicker than usual from work to Liv. St.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 September, 2010, 08:31:24 pm
Reactions were good when a tiny toddler ran out from between some cars at full pelt.  I'm glad it wasn't one of the cars that zoom along that road instead of me.  I did skid a bit.

Quicker home than out, though, despite persistent traffic.  My goodness, there were a lot of RLJers and pavement cyclists about today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 07 September, 2010, 09:57:49 pm
Horrible, horrible commute today.
Had to drive to Heathrow T5, with poor traffic on the M3/M25 (it was better when I used to fly SAS from T3, I could cycle the 20-odd miles there, leave my bike in left luggage and grab a shower in the SAS lounge).

Then my flight from LHR was delayed two hours, which was exactly the time amount of time between it being due into CPH and my flight from there leaving.
Luckily a tailwind got us there in probably the fastest time ever (about 1:15, rather than the more usual 1:45 to 2:00), so a quick sprint the full length of CPH from C23 to A32 (about the furthest apart you can have two gates, with passport control in the way) got me onto the internal commuter flight just as it was leaving, rather than having a leisurely hour and a bit to stuff my face  :( And, being on the wrong timed flight from LHR meant no meal, just a small pack of biscuits, with only drinks served on the second flight, so arrived at 6pm not having eaten since 8am - which if you know my eating habits is about 9 hours longer than I like to go between food stops.

Still, the kids are back at school this week, so once I'm home I'll be able to resume my 10 mile virtual commute riding with my son to his school in the morning, on the days I don't have to ride into London.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ktcita on 07 September, 2010, 10:02:34 pm
My ride in was normal but ride home at least 10 minutes more, which for a 15 minute commute is horrible!

Imagine if all those car drivers had chosen to ride a bike instead? I dream of a day when the council says, "you know what, there are more cyclists on the road than cars, let's give them one of the car lanes for good"....

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 07 September, 2010, 10:28:05 pm
My post-work commute was about 10% slower than usual, but nothing to do with the traffic. Nor did I have the headwind I've been battling against most evenings for the last couple of weeks. I was just very tired.  :-\

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 08 September, 2010, 07:07:57 am
Left work late last night, hoping to avoid numpties.  Didn't leave late enough.  :(

Roads were hell.  So bad that I chalked up my first incomplete commute.  Drivers, what happens when you're impatient?  Probably something bad, like hitting a cyclist (wearing a solid yellow jersey - so hard to spot) head-on.  :facepalm:

The bike (Orbea hybrid) took the hit - I never made contact with the vehicle.  Thankfully speeds were low.  OTOH, my front wheel is beyond hope, need to get the bike to a shop to check for other damage.

I have a few scrapes and bruises, mostly from the bike (sorry, nothing worth photographing).  I'm a bit stiff and sore this morning, still undecided if I'm going to work today.  Went to A&E last night (thanks, Sam :-* ), not much they could do or say as overall I felt OK.

And thanks to nutkin and my god-daughter for the kind words and sensible counsel last night.  :-*

I've got the driver's details and I've written up what happened.  Won't say much more here until I decide what I'm doing next.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 08 September, 2010, 07:13:54 am
Youch! 

Glad to hear you're relatively unscathed, I hope nothing gets worse over the next few days.

I hope you at least get the bike damage (and clothing damage if any) paid for by the driver's insurance.

Oh and I'll add the normal "get the bike checked" encouragement.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 08 September, 2010, 08:21:26 am
Glad you're OK Andrij. And wise not to post too much here as yet.

I rode home about 8.00 and found the roads much quieter than usual.

Had the pleasure of seeing a mobile phone box pulled in by an un-marked police car - never seen that happen before  :)

Disappointing to see quite a few people cycling without lights, but I guess if you don't ride regularly you're not that conscious of lighting-up time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 September, 2010, 08:49:14 am
Glad you're still with us.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 08 September, 2010, 09:00:36 am
A nice fast commute across Londonton this morning.

The main notable feature of my commute came whilst walking my bike along the pavement to Witham station.  There was a chap on a blue MTB (or possibly MTBSO) waiting to get round the bus shelter and go the other way (riding on the pavement).  I thought about having a word (there's no reason not to ride along the road there), but since I was rushing for a train, I decided to leave it - after all, he was at least letting people through the other way and waiting for a gap.

Anyway,  that's not the notable bit.  He was riding one handed since he was carrying something long and orange over his left shoulder.  I though nothing much of it - I think my mental processes tagged it as a builders' spirit level - until I was on the train and I realised it was a pair of long-handled bolt croppers  :o  I'm sure there was a perfectly innocent explanation, but that is where bikes are parked at the station.  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 08 September, 2010, 09:02:34 am
Ouch! head on! Glad you are ok - as ever, any accident you can walk away from is a good one......

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 08 September, 2010, 09:39:25 am
Last night was hideous.

Both numpty drivers that don't know how to drive in London (the regular drivers know which lane to be in and know there's little point jumping between lanes to try and get to the end faster), and numpty cyclists that don't know how to ride in traffic, hardly any looking back.

A lot calmer this morning, except for the schools area of SW15 which was rammed with lemmings (the parents) being held back from walking into traffic by people who've been taught how to cross the road properly (their children).

They don't like it when I say:

"Well done, now can you teach mummy how to cross the road properly?"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 08 September, 2010, 09:46:18 am
I got to film one woman on the phone, help one cyclist fix his puncture, film two dangerous muppet drivers with incredibly risky undertakes, and tell off one RLJer.

Not too impressed with myself as I lost it with the RLJer after he told me to "go back to your own country".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 08 September, 2010, 09:52:09 am
Left home in fog but by the time I'd climbed Culm Davey it was very sunny
Which is good but I had to stop and remove clothes
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 08 September, 2010, 10:02:52 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 08 September, 2010, 09:52:09 am
Left home in fog but by the time I'd climbed Culm Davey it was very sunny
Which is good but I had to stop and remove clothes

You are the Naked Cyclist and ICMFP!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 September, 2010, 10:07:54 am
Insanity on the roads!

Pure driver selfishness, trying to save a couple of seconds, leading to achingly long waits for everyone - cyclists included.

There's no tube strike today.  Why are all these idiots still in their cars?  Did they think that it would be like in the adverts today?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 08 September, 2010, 10:21:42 am
I've taken the day off - boss was very understanding.

I want to take the bike to the shop today, but have to wait as relevant tube line is buggered.  Guess this gives me time to make phone calls.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 08 September, 2010, 10:43:35 am
Quote from: Andrij on 08 September, 2010, 10:21:42 am
I've taken the day off - boss was very understanding.

I should coco. Take it easy, Andrij. Even if you're not physically damaged, the shock can take its toll on the system.

Hope the bike's OK. ;)

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 08 September, 2010, 10:46:45 am
Quote from: Andrij on 08 September, 2010, 10:21:42 am
I've taken the day off - boss was very understanding.

I want to take the bike to the shop today, but have to wait as relevant tube line is buggered.  Guess this gives me time to make phone calls.
 

Just seen this, glad you're OK
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 08 September, 2010, 10:56:43 am
Quote from: PaulF on 08 September, 2010, 10:46:45 am
Quote from: Andrij on 08 September, 2010, 10:21:42 am
I've taken the day off - boss was very understanding.

I want to take the bike to the shop today, but have to wait as relevant tube line is buggered.  Guess this gives me time to make phone calls.
 

Just seen this, glad you're OK

Seconded, hope you and the bike are feeling better soon  :-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 08 September, 2010, 11:04:21 am
You had to go one better, eh Andrij...  ::-)



 :P


Have a kiss to make it better!  :-*

Commute in today was relatively uneventful - although the twuntish school run mums were out in force.  My brakes got a good workout.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 08 September, 2010, 11:30:18 am
A chap crouching down in the middle of the road petting his dog, I swerved around him just as he stood up and the dog, not on a lead, ran under my front wheel. Thank God for the Dawes long wheel base, I whipped round the Jack Russell and missed it.

"Careful!"

shouted the owner.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 08 September, 2010, 09:54:03 pm
I. And lo, a group of cyclists did gather at the junction of Kensington High Street and Addison Road, where the Light was Red.
II. And the cyclists became impatient, for it had been full five seconds since a car had passed.  For which reason, their legs began to twitch and some among them did edge forward, though the Light was yet Red.
III. And a voice spake unto them out of the gloom, saying "You bastards had better bloody wait!", whereupon the cyclists were troubled and fearful and ceased to move.
IV. And a rider emerged from the gloom on a yellow bicycle.  Yellow were its wheels and its handlebars and the rider did spin mightily.
V. And as he passed the cyclists, he did say unto them "Thankyousoverymuch".
VI. And he cycled to the East and was gone.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 08 September, 2010, 09:55:56 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 08 September, 2010, 09:54:03 pm
I. And lo, a group of cyclists did gather at the junction of Kensington High Street and Addison Road, where the Light was Red.
II. And the cyclists became impatient, for it had been full five seconds since a car had passed.  For which reason, their legs began to twitch and some among them did edge forward, though the Light was yet Red.
III. And a voice spake unto them out of the gloom: "You bastards had better bloody wait!", whereupon the cyclists were troubled and fearful and ceased to move.
IV. And a rider emerged from the gloom on a yellow bicycle.  Yellow were its wheels and its handlebars and the rider did spin mightily.
V. And as he passed the cyclists, he did say unto them "Thankyousoverymuch".
VI. And he cycled to the East and was gone.

;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 08 September, 2010, 11:23:47 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 08 September, 2010, 09:54:03 pm
I. And lo, a group of cyclists did gather at the junction of Kensington High Street and Addison Road, where the Light was Red.
II. And the cyclists became impatient, for it had been full five seconds since a car had passed.  For which reason, their legs began to twitch and some among them did edge forward, though the Light was yet Red.
III. And a voice spake unto them out of the gloom, saying "You bastards had better bloody wait!", whereupon the cyclists were troubled and fearful and ceased to move.
IV. And a rider emerged from the gloom on a yellow bicycle.  Yellow were its wheels and its handlebars and the rider did spin mightily.
V. And as he passed the cyclists, he did say unto them "Thankyousoverymuch".
VI. And he cycled to the East and was gone.


itsbruce almighty!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 09 September, 2010, 07:05:54 am
POTD  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 09 September, 2010, 07:48:47 am
Quote
I. And lo, a group of cyclists did gather at the junction of Kensington High Street and Addison Road, where the Light was Red.
II. And the cyclists became impatient, for it had been full five seconds since a car had passed.  For which reason, their legs began to twitch and some among them did edge forward, though the Light was yet Red.
III. And a voice spake unto them out of the gloom, saying "You bastards had better bloody wait!", whereupon the cyclists were troubled and fearful and ceased to move.
IV. And a rider emerged from the gloom on a yellow bicycle.  Yellow were its wheels and its handlebars and the rider did spin mightily.
V. And as he passed the cyclists, he did say unto them "Thankyousoverymuch".
VI. And he cycled to the East and was gone.

 O:-) ;D O:-) ;D :thumbsup: ;) :D :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 09 September, 2010, 08:25:28 am
Quote from: tonycollinet on 09 September, 2010, 07:05:54 am
POTD  ;D

+1  :thumbsup:
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 09 September, 2010, 08:33:19 am
V. good itsbruce!!!   ;D

..but where is the video?  :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 September, 2010, 09:16:46 am
Last night, there were dozy drivers everywhere, from the concrete pumper driver veering across lanes at E&C via endless people drifting across Give Ways to block the CS, to the guy on the Mitcham Common RAB who saw me, stopped (as he should), then drifted forward again.

Three times I had to shout 'No!' to idiots.

But this morning, I came into work early.  I had a good ride, clear as it was of motorists* (relatively).  I added a bit to the ride, going up to Tower Bridge to look at the river.  My average at that point was 25kph.  I tried hard to keep that up, but through the back streets of Southwark, I can't.  I ended up with a 24.8kph average.  Normally, I'd be very happy with that, but because I'd seen the 25, it was a bit of a let-down :-\


* Yes.  After a daft motorist pulled sharply into the bus lane rather than wait the two seconds it was taking for another car to pull out of the way, I reminded him about his mirrors and indicators.  He said I was riding 'in the middle of the road'.  Well, in the middle of the bus lane, yeah, but ISTR it was another car that was in his way, not me.  And I pointed out he was in the middle of the road, and the left, and the right ;D  He wound his window up.  I waved goodbye, as I was off, and he was still stuck in between other fat arses like himself.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 09 September, 2010, 09:42:11 am
Well... seeing the hell that the poor accursed metropolitan riders have to put up with I feel (only slightly) guilty about recording the fact that the last two or three days have been glorious for commuting here.  Light winds, blue skies (once the sun's got up that is), mist &tc &tc.  in the mornings and (almost) summer conditions for the ride home. 

Given that I was expecting to get pissed upon by the rain gods this week it's a real bonus.

*Blissed out sigh*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 09 September, 2010, 11:05:19 am
The knee lasted 2/3 of the way in, and 1/3 of the way home yesterday. :(
Too much too soon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 September, 2010, 11:24:09 am
:(  Don't push it too hard.  You want to be back to fitness asap, and that can be very frustrating.

The days he doesn't ride... (http://www.yehudamoon.com/index.php?date=2009-11-12)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 09 September, 2010, 12:31:38 pm
I did my worst ever piece of red light jumping.   At a roundabout on the busy dual carriageway (A473) where I go around to Bridgend industrial estate (work here) I noticed that there was no traffic coming from the right so ignored the red light which was nowhere near ready to turn green and continued past the red traffic light.  Traffic light drag race completely avoided.  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 09 September, 2010, 12:47:33 pm
Quote from: clarion on 09 September, 2010, 11:24:09 am
The days he doesn't ride... (http://www.yehudamoon.com/index.php?date=2009-11-12)

^Me, today.

Except it's the greyness causing the not riding, not the other way round. I woke up aching all over and feeling like I really didn't want to get out of bed. So I left the bike at home and got a lift to the station.

I dare say a bracing ride would have livened me up a bit, but I need a day off. Sunday's 200 took it out of me even more than I realised at the time. No point making myself ill and enforcing a longer lay-off from the bike. Still disappointed not to get a ride in today though.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 09 September, 2010, 01:29:51 pm
The car is stuck in the garage having something expensive done so its bike there and back today.
On the way there ... The garage door took me 10 minutes to open, as the big spring at the top was getting stuck. Once out I dropped Miss Dan the Younger off, then to the bike shop for new brake blocks. Finally heading to work there was a little avoiding the hard of concentrating; I saw some rather cramped overtaking by people that clearly felt unable to move from the cycle lane into an empty carriageway - I was beyond primary to give them the space; and then it was clear and steady into work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: urban_biker on 09 September, 2010, 01:34:59 pm
Car in for MOT today so no cycling  :'( Amused myself while waiting for MOT place to open by sitting in carpark and counting the bikes going past. Counted 8 bikes in 20 minutes including one recumbant! This is Havant not London but it still seems the number of people cycling has increased in the last year.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ktcita on 09 September, 2010, 06:38:21 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 08 September, 2010, 09:54:03 pm
I. And lo, a group of cyclists did gather at the junction of Kensington High Street and Addison Road, where the Light was Red.
II. And the cyclists became impatient, for it had been full five seconds since a car had passed.  For which reason, their legs began to twitch and some among them did edge forward, though the Light was yet Red.
III. And a voice spake unto them out of the gloom, saying "You bastards had better bloody wait!", whereupon the cyclists were troubled and fearful and ceased to move.
IV. And a rider emerged from the gloom on a yellow bicycle.  Yellow were its wheels and its handlebars and the rider did spin mightily.
V. And as he passed the cyclists, he did say unto them "Thankyousoverymuch".
VI. And he cycled to the East and was gone.


love it
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ktcita on 09 September, 2010, 06:42:58 pm
No, numpty on a black hybrid, the gap I was leaving in the traffic wasn't for you, it was to allow the bus to turn right across traffic. But I guess you worked that out when the bus missed hitting you by a hare's breath. Slow down, smell the roses and be more aware of your surroundings, you might live longer.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 09 September, 2010, 09:04:00 pm
Quote from: benborp on 06 September, 2010, 11:47:13 am
Rear ended (fairly gently) again at the Elephant and Castle. I was stopped behind another car and fortunately just lifting my rear wheel to get the cranks set to move off when the driver of the van approaching the queue of traffic attempted to insert the nose of his vehicle down my right side. There was not enough space. A little buckle in the rear wheel which I dealt with for the time being by loosening off the brakes.

A very calm response. Can I some of whatever you're on?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 09 September, 2010, 09:06:28 pm
I worked until the rain stopped, then felt obliged to race the lewes road to avoid following in other people's spray.
After sitting for the day in all the spray lube I'd used this morning the garage flew open.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 09 September, 2010, 09:25:55 pm
Top commute in and awesome sprint home.
I have been working later and later of late and each night I have had to rush home the shortest route possible.  17 miles instead of the 24.  Problem is it increases my risk of death due to the busier roads used and the sheer lack of space / verge / escape points.

Tonight I was coming up Caen Hill and heard an HGV downshift behind me.  I looked over the shoulder and saw a large Waitrose lorry.  It made no attempt to pass and kept a good distance back.  I put some pressure down to try and make his journey up the lesser gradient easier and when I got to the top of London Road he was still there, still the safe safe distance back.  It kept to this all the way through the town and out the other side and passed Police HQ.  He then did a very safe overtake and I gave a huge wave and thumbs up.

I made a note of the trailer 84.075 and I am about to email the transport manager via the Customer Service portal and pass on my thanks for the care he took.   :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RJ on 09 September, 2010, 10:15:16 pm
... I overtook an Audi.

Pulling the (empty) tag-along.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 09 September, 2010, 10:30:01 pm
On the way home tonight, I pulled up behind a shagged out Nova, W204SKL, at the lights.  I could see through the rear window what the driver was doing. Which was fiddling with the DVD player built in to the console infront of the handbrake.

I was somewhat gobsmacked.  The lights went green and he pulled away. I caught him at the next set, dragged him from the car and beat him to a bloody pulp. , still suffering from having my flabber gasted and leant in at his open window.

"Excuse me"

"Urgh"

"Tell me you're not watching a DVD as you drive. You must be fucking crazy"

"----------" <lights go green, drives off>
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 09 September, 2010, 11:49:32 pm
On the way this morning it was misty, and chilly enough that I even contemplated zipping up my fleece :o  It's shocking stuff, I tell you.  If it carries on like this, I might have to start wearing socks!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 10 September, 2010, 12:14:56 am
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 09 September, 2010, 11:49:32 pm
If it carries on like this, I might have to start wearing socks!

Ohgod, you mean I'm going to have to break out the full arctic weather gear?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 September, 2010, 08:08:21 am
Another fast early morning.  I can't say I like the alarm going off at 0530, but I do like the quieter roads.  Having to watch out for drivers who have omitted to wake up before getting in the car, but it's OK.

I counted sets of traffic lights this morning.  I've been saying for the past year that I ride past an estimated fifty sets.  Obviously this is incorret, and I'm sorry if I misled anyone.  Absurd that there could be fifty sets in just under an hour's riding.

No.

The actual number is sixty-nine. :o :o :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 10 September, 2010, 08:17:23 am
Quote from: clarion on 10 September, 2010, 08:08:21 am
Another fast early morning.  I can't say I like the alarm going off at 0530, but I do like the quieter roads.  Having to watch out for drivers who have omitted to wake up before getting in the car, but it's OK.

I counted sets of traffic lights this morning.  I've been saying for the past year that I ride past an estimated fifty sets.  Obviously this is incorret, and I'm sorry if I misled anyone.  Absurd that there could be fifty sets in just under an hour's riding.

No.

The actual number is sixty-nine. :o :o :o


And how many few do you stop at?      ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 September, 2010, 08:22:57 am
I stop at all which are at red or amber.  Why do you ask? ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 10 September, 2010, 08:23:34 am
Try 120 for my commute, and I think I'm on a fairly low density of TLs/mile.  Some had almost as high numbers for far shorter commutes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 10 September, 2010, 08:31:53 am
Quote from: clarion on 10 September, 2010, 08:22:57 am
I stop at all which are at red or amber.  Why do you ask? ;)


[Daily Wail Mode]
Well, you're one of them pesky RLJing cyclists... you know - the ones that insist on using the road and cause all the accidents, and they give people cancer, and they killed our beloved Princess of Hearts...  >:( >:(
[/Daily Wail Mode]
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 10 September, 2010, 08:33:34 am
38 lights for me.  8 reds this morning and lots of RLJs.  Plus a twit who rode down the inside of a movng van that was clearly indicating a left turn.  Lovely weather though  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 10 September, 2010, 08:36:13 am
I only have four sets of lights (and one railway crossing) on my 5 mile commute.

One set of lights at the roundabout by Addenbrooke's Hospital, two sets of crossing lights on Queen Edith's Way and one set of traffic lights at the junction of QEW and Cherry Hinton Road.

Bliss!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 September, 2010, 08:45:19 am
Quote from: Regulator on 10 September, 2010, 08:31:53 am
Quote from: clarion on 10 September, 2010, 08:22:57 am
I stop at all which are at red or amber.  Why do you ask? ;)


[Daily Wail Mode]
Well, you're one of them pesky RLJing cyclists... you know - the ones that insist on using the road and cause all the accidents, and they give people cancer, and they killed our beloved Princess of Hearts...  >:( >:(
[/Daily Wail Mode]

Ah yes.  Good point.  And I'm probably encouraging the illegal immigrants to eat the swans and kick donkeys or something.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 10 September, 2010, 08:59:34 am
Was right-hooked by a tit on a Brompton this morning.  Both of us stayed on our bikes but if you're listening, mate, you should know that slowing marginally and turning at the very last minute does not constitute good cycle-craft.  You didn't even look right before you turned, let alone behind you.  Signalling would have been even better.

My route takes me through the Notting Hill area, which means lots of yummy mummies on the school run, accompanied by many head-on arguments between wankpanzers and Porsches.

I also passed a car being dropped off by a short transporter lorry; the car immediately drove off.  Weirdly  sweet moment, like a hen with a chick.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 10 September, 2010, 09:20:53 am
One set of lights (pedstrian crossing variety) in 10 miles.  They come in the first 20 yards.  They have only been in place for about 6 months.  Mrs Nuncio, in her capacity as Plaid Cymru county borough councillor for the ward I live in, was the prime mover behind their installation.  She says it's to help the children, old and infirm cross the road.  I think it's to piss off English-born cycling husbands. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 10 September, 2010, 09:28:18 am
There are no traffic lights on my commute ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 September, 2010, 09:36:16 am
Well, I'd be amazed if there were one on your landing ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 10 September, 2010, 09:48:32 am
Full house for the 4th week in a row.

Finally decided to stop being lazy and wimping out onto the train. Actually looking forward to the darker and more miserable commutes as it'll get rid of the hordes of clueless fuckwits that cycle commute in London in fair weather.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 September, 2010, 09:52:48 am
Good news, there, Greenbank.  Sounds like you've got your commuting mojo back.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 10 September, 2010, 09:56:47 am
Quote from: jogler on 10 September, 2010, 09:28:18 am
There are no traffic lights on my commute ;)
Quote from: clarion on 10 September, 2010, 09:36:16 am
Well, I'd be amazed if there were one on your landing ;D

I'm reminded of an old Two Ronnies joke, about a man who sued for divorce on the grounds that his wife had nightdresses of only two colours: red, which meant stop, and amber, which meant carry on only if stopping would cause physical injury.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 10 September, 2010, 02:29:12 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 10 September, 2010, 08:23:34 am
Try 120 for my commute, and I think I'm on a fairly low density of TLs/mile.  Some had almost as high numbers for far shorter commutes.

Are we playing traffic light one upmanship? I've never counted but I suspect I would win.

(http://lh5.ggpht.com/__5EyI8Ck-Lw/TIowxdSxSpI/AAAAAAAAZDA/fSOZq_NOrDM/s640/Ham%20-%20Garmin%20Training%20Center%28r%29%2010092010%20141839.jpg)

This was a particularly tiresome return home, stopped at red >60 times, slowed a similar number. (oh, and the 75km speed peak looks to be a bit overoptimistic, the 50km ones are probably honest.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 10 September, 2010, 02:45:05 pm
How about counting them for us?  Your challenge is to visualise your commute route in your mind, and count them thataway.  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 10 September, 2010, 02:51:10 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 10 September, 2010, 02:45:05 pm
How about counting them for us?  Your challenge is to visualise your commute route in your mind, and count them thataway.  :D

....or spend longer than the ride takes on google streetview ;-)


I might just do the visualisation thing, some day I'm sat down with a pint in front of me. Challenge.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 10 September, 2010, 03:43:16 pm
Ham,

Do you start or finish in Sunbury ?

Ever wear a yacf top ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 10 September, 2010, 03:50:01 pm
I've been fettling each morning for the last couple of days following the rear ending I received at the Elephant and Castle. Today I hit the sweetspot. Absolute silence from the drivetrain and perceptably smoother rolling. Bliss restored. Then my left cleat broke as I dismounted at work...

Speedplay cleats are expensive, even more so if you make the mistake of fondling some Assos bits and pieces while you're waiting. Oh well, in for a penny, in for £231.97.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 10 September, 2010, 04:23:13 pm
Quote from: benborp on 10 September, 2010, 03:50:01 pm
I've been fettling each morning for the last couple of days following the rear ending I received at the Elephant and Castle. Today I hit the sweetspot. Absolute silence from the drivetrain and perceptably smoother rolling. Bliss restored. Then my left cleat broke as I dismounted at work...

Speedplay cleats are expensive, even more so if you make the mistake of fondling some Assos bits and pieces while you're waiting. Oh well, in for a penny, in for £231.97.

 :thumbsup: ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 10 September, 2010, 04:54:22 pm
Quote from: hatler on 10 September, 2010, 03:43:16 pm
Ham,

Do you start or finish in Sunbury ?

Ever wear a yacf top ?

Yes, I do sometimes, this was a ride back from Sunbury. I mostly ride out to just past Hayes, and sometimes then down to Bedfont and / or Sunbury and back to Wanstead. I do have and sport and Orange short yacf top from time to time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 10 September, 2010, 05:44:12 pm
OK. I mostly wear a yacf top, either yellow or blue and journey's end (work) for me is Sunbury, about a mile north of Sunbury Cross. A largeish blue chip outfit.

I'll keep my eyes peeled for you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 10 September, 2010, 07:22:36 pm
I'm usually peacefully oblivious to the traffic volumes on my commute through Stafford - but this evening was mad! I assume something had gone wrong on the M6 because the town was jammed with impatient drivers and revving engines. I even took to the pavement at a roundabout to avoid what was looking like a fist-fight between two van drivers.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Zoidburg on 10 September, 2010, 07:34:32 pm
Quote from: Gordy on 10 September, 2010, 07:22:36 pm
I'm usually peacefully oblivious to the traffic volumes on my commute through Stafford - but this evening was mad! I assume something had gone wrong on the M6 because the town was jammed with impatient drivers and revving engines. I even took to the pavement at a roundabout to avoid what was looking like a fist-fight between two van drivers.


Two dead uns plus tail backs on the M6 IIRC.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 10 September, 2010, 09:46:40 pm
Home to Work: 11 sets of lights.
Work to Home: none.  Yes.  Zero. Zilch. Zip. Nada.

Thanks to the in-bound route being downhill on main roads and inner-city streets, whereas the route home is almost all off-road on riverside and parkland paths, then tiny residential streets.

(Also: Home-to-work; no crossings of the river.  Work-to-home; Four.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 10 September, 2010, 10:55:18 pm
Twat on Lambeth Road pulled out from between two parked cars without looking properly behind, so I had to swerve almost onto the wrong side of the road to avoid him. I shot an evil glance behind me in the general direction of the driver as I passed (though I didn't make eye contact), muttering something unprintable by way of an assessment of his driving skills, and continued on my way.

Moments later... "Toot! Toot! Toot!" behind me.

Oh dear, what have I done... Slightly bricking it now...

I'm praying for the roads ahead to be as blocked as they usually are, so he'll get stuck in the queue while I continue on my merry way, but they seem to be uncommonly clear on this Friday evening...

Fortunately, there's just enough traffic to prevent him getting close to me, though I can still hear him tooting from several car lengths back. I weave through the queue after the lights at Camberwell Green then get a lucky break with the lights at Denmark Hill and I'm away and in the clear. Phew.

Note to self: keep your opinions under your hat next time. You know they're idiots. No need to provoke them.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 11 September, 2010, 06:39:51 am
Quote from: Andrij on 08 September, 2010, 07:07:57 am
Left work late last night, hoping to avoid numpties.  Didn't leave late enough.  :(

Roads were hell.  So bad that I chalked up my first incomplete commute.  Drivers, what happens when you're impatient?  Probably something bad, like hitting a cyclist (wearing a solid yellow jersey - so hard to spot) head-on.  :facepalm:
So it wasn't a yacf jersey?  Thank goodness for that  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 11 September, 2010, 09:05:06 am
Bermondsey Road, about 6pm. Bus stationary on the other side of the road with a mountain bike under the front wheels.  No sign of a cyclist (thank goodness) or any emergency vehicles.  Couple of people standing around but no one seeming particularly agitated.  Most odd.  Hope whoever was on the bike was OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 11 September, 2010, 05:00:53 pm
On ride home on friday saw a courier cyclist with a refere wistle, ready to be used as a cycle bell.
So simple idea, yet far more effective than a bell (which arn't cool really!!)
I think i might invest............. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: klaas on 11 September, 2010, 07:22:07 pm
My commute is 16 lights in 2 miles. Don't stop for any of them. Dutch style cycling!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 11 September, 2010, 10:24:11 pm
On Thursday, I was on my way to meet friends at Fenchurch Street.  Stopped at the lights at the junction of Southampton Row and High Holborn, some dickhead messenger sails out past the line and stops right in the middle of the road at the edge of the eastbound traffic.  After waiting for 45 seconds or so, he decides to adjust the bandage around his right shin: first with his hand, then with his teeth.  At this point, the lights changed but he decided to stay where he was (right in my way) while gnawing at his bandages.  Stupidest thing I have seen on the roads in a long time and I wasn't polite.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 September, 2010, 10:31:20 pm
I had a great ride in this morning.  I went to a meeting at the Hilton, Rotherhithe, so it was up to work then on a bit.  I didn't want to ride Jamaica Road, so I used the cycle route along the river, which worked out very well, despite the cobbles.  There may have been a trace of tailwind ;)

When I got the hotel, I found that the entrance ramp is unexpectedly steep.  I larft.

I came home via a lovely barbecue with good company.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 12 September, 2010, 05:55:05 am
Yes, that ramp is steep.  But I always enjoy walking my bike through hotel reception when using the ferry. :)
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 12 September, 2010, 06:27:38 am
Quote from: clarion on 11 September, 2010, 10:31:20 pm
I found that the entrance ramp is unexpectedly steep. 

It's fewer steep if you take a run at it  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 September, 2010, 11:00:18 am
Quote from: Jurek on 12 September, 2010, 06:27:38 am
Quote from: clarion on 11 September, 2010, 10:31:20 pm
I found that the entrance ramp is unexpectedly steep.

It's fewer steep if you take a run at it  ;)

Well, I know now ::-)

But since I've been once in 45.5 years, I expect to revisit the place in about 2056. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 13 September, 2010, 08:43:38 am
That wasn't too bad.  Only 2-3 minutes slower than recent commutes.  I put that down to some residual soreness, including my lower back now going a bit funny.

Tried to count traffic lights, but not sure I got them all (distractions and whatnot): 58 lights in 12.7km. :(
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 13 September, 2010, 09:22:04 am
I was stopped at the lights near the hospital when a chap pulls up beside me.  He is dressed in full Saxobank kit and on a new looking Kuota bike.  I say good morning but he is too busy track standing to reply.  The lights change and we are off.  As he is still clipped in he rockets ahead but isn't actually going very fast.  I am on the Orbea but I have a large Carradice on the seat post full of clothes. 
The traffic is heavy and I catch him.

Next, I filter right to get in the correct lane for the crazy shit in the middle of Taunton.  It takes him a couple of moments to get to the front of the lights presumably because he is still track standing like an arse

The same thing happens, he gets away from the lights first but isn't really going any speed.

Then we are going different ways.  I doubt I'll see him again.  Taunton is a small place but the poor weather will be here soon
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 September, 2010, 09:23:00 am
Glad you're back awheel, Andrij.  Don't push yourself too hard.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 13 September, 2010, 09:56:55 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 11 September, 2010, 10:24:11 pm
... where he was (right in my way) while gnawing at his bandages.  ...

First recorded sighting of a zombie?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 13 September, 2010, 10:24:51 am
Left the bike at home today so planned to use a Boris Bike for the last leg of the journey from St Pancras to Southwark, only there were no bikes at the station opposite St Pancras, or at the two other nearest stations. I had to WALK a whole THREE MINUTES to find a station with ONE bike in it. Outrageous!  ;)

Moments later and I would have been beaten to it - the poor chap who turned up just after me looked crestfallen.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 13 September, 2010, 02:14:14 pm
You need a smartphone, and one of the apps which will tell you where the nearest bike (or space) is.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 13 September, 2010, 02:39:20 pm
Yes, I have such an app on my iPhone - that's how I managed to find another bike station so quickly (in fact, I'd already looked at it before I got off the train). And why I knew it wasn't worth trying the bike station behind St Pancras. And why I knew there was only one bike left in the one I was heading to, so knew I had to get there as quickly as possible.   :thumbsup:

I think part of the reason the bloke who arrived just after me was so disappointed was that he'd also been guided there by his phone.

Just been out for a lunchtime pootle up to Condor. Brilliantly, there's a bike station just round the corner from Condor in the side street, about 20 seconds walk from the shop. This and the fact that there's also a bike station directly outside my office makes the journey considerably quicker and easier than taking the tube. And cheaper - three separate journeys already today, all for a single solitary paaahnd.  :thumbsup:

Shame Condor didn't have what I wanted in stock.  :-\

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 13 September, 2010, 02:47:11 pm
And what's the best iPhone app?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ScumOfTheRoad on 13 September, 2010, 02:54:16 pm
I'm surprised Condor let you in the shop when they saw you arrive on a Boris bike.
Having hub gears within 50 feet probably makes them break out in hives anyway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 13 September, 2010, 03:01:32 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 13 September, 2010, 02:47:11 pm
And what's the best iPhone app?

Don't know. I have this one (http://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/london-cycle-free-maps-routes/id383292875?mt=8) and it does the job for me - it's the only app I've used and I haven't felt the need to try any others, if that's any kind of recommendation.

Quote from: ScumOfTheRoad on 13 September, 2010, 02:54:16 pm
I'm surprised Condor let you in the shop when they saw you arrive on a Boris bike.
Having hub gears within 50 feet probably makes them break out in hives anyway.

That's why the bike station is round the corner - so they can't see you coming.  ;D

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 13 September, 2010, 03:04:24 pm
Today I had the pleasure of a 15 minute hobble, a 5 minute wait, an 80 minute bus ride and a final 2 minute hobble as my commute.  It gave me plenty of time to watch cyclists enjoying the freedom of London's roads.  Harrumph. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 September, 2010, 03:08:09 pm
Quote from: ScumOfTheRoad on 13 September, 2010, 02:54:16 pm
I'm surprised Condor let you in the shop when they saw you arrive on a Boris bike.
Having hub gears within 50 feet probably makes them break out in hives anyway.

It's OK - riding a hire bike indicates you have a credit card, ready to be pushed to the limit...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 13 September, 2010, 06:44:50 pm
I did not enjoy the weather on my road home tonight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 13 September, 2010, 07:01:33 pm
I was tired when I got up this morning but the commute in was invigorating.  It's funny how often I get ready for work thinking "Meh, do I really want to ride in again this morning?" only to rediscover, as soon as I'm on the bike, how much I love it.

Made fast time home, too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 13 September, 2010, 07:45:13 pm
In spite of the discomfort I really enjoyed being out on the bike (we'll ignore the cars).  But could it be an overall nice day on the bike?  Of course not!  The wire for my computer has snapped right at the bracket at some point today.  >:(  Time to dig out the mini screwdrivers and see if it can be fixed. *sigh*
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hulver on 13 September, 2010, 07:48:17 pm
Sodding wind. If there's one thing that puts me off riding a bike, it's a sodding head wind.

 >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 13 September, 2010, 07:53:05 pm
Loads of idiots passing too close today.  Worst commute in yonks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 13 September, 2010, 08:03:16 pm
Quote from: Grub on 13 September, 2010, 07:53:05 pm
Loads of idiots passing too close today.  Worst commute in yonks.

You need a blue filter for your Dinotte. ;)

Won't stop them from passing too close, but just think of the fun when they see the flashing blue light in their mirrors.  :demon:
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 September, 2010, 08:18:27 pm
I was having a good ride this evening, which got even better when I saw the delightful NSTN heading out up towards Clapham Common.  I thought it would be nice to ride with her.  And it was.  Till there was a massive BANG!.  I'd had a spoke break.  Almost immediately, the wheel went a bit wobbly and started to rub badly. 

I let NSTN go on, and I hobbled on to Apex, where I got a spoke for the price of £1.  A pound?!?!? For a single spoke?!?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 13 September, 2010, 08:27:57 pm
Quote from: clarion on 13 September, 2010, 08:18:27 pm
... Till there was a massive BANG!.  I'd had a spoke break.  Almost immediately, the wheel went a bit wobbly and started to rub badly. ...

I'm afraid you must have caught it from my singlespeed, which lost a spoke shortly after I saw you last week.

Unfortunately for me, it wasn't strictly speaking the spoke which had gone, but an eyelet had come out of the rim. :o

Ho hum, new wheel time.  I've actually got a new rim for the front wheel (the front wheel I was using was actually "borrowed" from the tourer), and had bought another spare to put in the spare bits pile, so I already have a matching pair of rims to rebuild both wheels.

Time to get spocalc and a ruler out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Zipperhead on 13 September, 2010, 08:57:46 pm
Quote from: clarion on 13 September, 2010, 08:18:27 pm
I was having a good ride this evening, which got even better when I saw the delightful NSTN heading out up towards Clapham Common.  I thought it would be nice to ride with her.  And it was.  Till there was a massive BANG!.  I'd had a spoke break.  Almost immediately, the wheel went a bit wobbly and started to rub badly. 

I let NSTN go on, and I hobbled on to Apex, where I got a spoke for the price of £1.  A pound?!?!? For a single spoke?!?

You think that we believe that? Occam's razor and all that?

You just didn't have the legs to catch her, so have invented this cock and bull story about a spoke breaking and then having to pay a pound (we know, spokes are 50p per hundred in the people's republic of Yorkshireland) for a replacement.

 ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

On the way home I saw a man driving along with his phone in his hand. But I suppose he could argue that it couldn't be distracting him as he was watching television. The phrase taking the piss doesn't do it justice - especially as he was driving past the Houses of Parliament at the time.

To be fair, after I shouted at him later on he put the phone down and put the television on standby.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 September, 2010, 09:02:21 pm
Quote from: Zipperhead on 13 September, 2010, 08:57:46 pm
Quote from: clarion on 13 September, 2010, 08:18:27 pm
I was having a good ride this evening, which got even better when I saw the delightful NSTN heading out up towards Clapham Common.  I thought it would be nice to ride with her.  And it was.  Till there was a massive BANG!.  I'd had a spoke break.  Almost immediately, the wheel went a bit wobbly and started to rub badly. 

I let NSTN go on, and I hobbled on to Apex, where I got a spoke for the price of £1.  A pound?!?!? For a single spoke?!?

You think that we believe that? Occam's razor and all that?

You just didn't have the legs to catch her, so have invented this cock and bull story about a spoke breaking and then having to pay a pound (we know, spokes are 50p per hundred in the people's republic of Yorkshireland) for a replacement.

 ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

You can't prove anything! ;D

Quote
On the way home I saw a man driving along with his phone in his hand. But I suppose he could argue that it couldn't be distracting him as he was watching television. The phrase taking the piss doesn't do it justice - especially as he was driving past the Houses of Parliament at the time.

To be fair, after I shouted at him later on he put the phone down and put the television on standby.

He's probably very important.  And needs to watch TV.  You're on a bike, so you're not important.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moultonaught on 13 September, 2010, 09:06:46 pm
The more than the usual number of myopic or 'couldn't care less drivers' overtaking far too close on the way in this morning was more than offset by the shout of "That's a sick bike, man" from one of a number of yoofs hanging out at an Aylesbury bus stop on my way home this evening.


I'm assuming it was a good thing?!  ;D
 
... unlike the horrendous headwind thereafter  - when I got out of Ayelsbury on to the backroad home ....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 13 September, 2010, 09:13:49 pm
Must be something in the air today with bad driving.
I had someone pull out on me today and if they never saw me coming, they can't have been looking even though I suspect they saw me and pulled out anyway. I very rarely get any hassle at all.

They may not have liked me cycling up their driveway to get around them though. :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 13 September, 2010, 09:24:14 pm
Great day, 17 miles round trip. 34mins in, 28 home....

Wind was in the West  :thumbsup:

And no troublesome cars.  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 13 September, 2010, 09:31:03 pm
Quote from: clarion on 13 September, 2010, 09:02:21 pm
Quote from: Zipperhead on 13 September, 2010, 08:57:46 pm
Quote from: clarion on 13 September, 2010, 08:18:27 pm
I was having a good ride this evening, which got even better when I saw the delightful NSTN heading out up towards Clapham Common.  I thought it would be nice to ride with her.  And it was.  Till there was a massive BANG!.  I'd had a spoke break.  Almost immediately, the wheel went a bit wobbly and started to rub badly. 

I let NSTN go on, and I hobbled on to Apex, where I got a spoke for the price of £1.  A pound?!?!? For a single spoke?!?

You think that we believe that? Occam's razor and all that?

You just didn't have the legs to catch her, so have invented this cock and bull story about a spoke breaking and then having to pay a pound (we know, spokes are 50p per hundred in the people's republic of Yorkshireland) for a replacement.

 ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

You can't prove anything! ;D


 ;D

I'd already ridden as fast as I could manage from Euston (which, let's face it, isn't very fast, considering I'm a pootler) to make a class on the Common. And I still couldn't *really* keep up with Clazza until his spoke went bang - he's a speedy chap these days. I wouldn't have buggered off but if you're late to my class they sod off without you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 14 September, 2010, 09:52:29 am
1) I got to try the new jacket.

2) I was very naughty and rode without my glasses on.

These two facts are related. Hope the weather improves for friday night.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 14 September, 2010, 09:55:04 am
It is indeed mildly damp out there, isn't it?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 14 September, 2010, 09:55:20 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 13 September, 2010, 09:31:03 pm
.. And I still couldn't *really* keep up with Clazza until his spoke went bang - he's a speedy chap these days.

Bless you.  You're very kind to an old gentleman :-*

Quote
I wouldn't have buggered off but if you're late to my class they sod off without you.

Completely understood.  I wasn't absolutely sure what was up when I stopped, but I didn't want to hold you up.

Maybe we can ride together somewhere another day... *sigh*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 14 September, 2010, 09:55:42 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 14 September, 2010, 09:52:29 am
1) I got to try the new jacket.

2) I was very naughty and rode without my glasses on.

These two facts are related. Hope the weather improves for friday night.

XCWeather is still saying warmish and cloudy for Friday and Saturday...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 14 September, 2010, 09:56:30 am
Cycling up Loampit Vale in Lewisham trying to keep to the cycle bit of the road, when another cyclist takes a really quite dangerous swerve around me and then cycles up past the lorry. As his swerving was so extreme his back wheel rubbed and skidded along the pavement edge for about 10 feet  :o. I've never seen anything like it, I so wanted him to crash  :demon: The lorry beeped his horn and I told him he was an idiot but he just continued like a bat out of hell up the road.

And as for you fading Lycra shorts dude, when I see you next time I will tell you that I can see your hairy arse, I've done it to two others you know!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 14 September, 2010, 10:17:54 am
Quote from: tiermat on 14 September, 2010, 09:55:42 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 14 September, 2010, 09:52:29 am
1) I got to try the new jacket.

2) I was very naughty and rode without my glasses on.

These two facts are related. Hope the weather improves for friday night.

XCWeather is still saying warmish and cloudy for Friday and Saturday...

Not at night it isn't.

4-6 degrees Friday night.

Get your winter woolies out, folks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 14 September, 2010, 10:23:17 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 14 September, 2010, 10:17:54 am
Quote from: tiermat on 14 September, 2010, 09:55:42 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 14 September, 2010, 09:52:29 am
1) I got to try the new jacket.

2) I was very naughty and rode without my glasses on.

These two facts are related. Hope the weather improves for friday night.

XCWeather is still saying warmish and cloudy for Friday and Saturday...

Not at night it isn't.

4-6 degrees Friday night.

Get your winter woolies out, folks.

That is positively tropical! :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 14 September, 2010, 10:40:33 am
Scalped a bloke on a white Specialized (I think) bike with knobblies who was oh so determined to be the fasted.  But I caught him even when he crashed past me through a changing light where I was stationary.  Caught up with him on the hill, too, which should be doubly embarrassing in a fixed versus geared contest.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 14 September, 2010, 11:44:33 am
Not really - fixed is faster up most hills, IME.  If it's knobblies, then I assume a Spesh MTB, in which case another disadvantage for him.  Sorry to rain on your parade!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 14 September, 2010, 11:51:52 am
Quote from: Wendy on 14 September, 2010, 11:44:33 am
Not really - fixed is faster up most hills, IME.  If it's knobblies, then I assume a Spesh MTB, in which case another disadvantage for him.  Sorry to rain on your parade!

Oh, I wasn't crowing about beating somebody on what I know was a slower bike.  Just amused.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Zipperhead on 14 September, 2010, 02:01:48 pm
I managed a couple of good deeds on the way home last night.

I was overtaking a few people but not going too fast because of the headwind when another cyclist overtook me at a real rate of knots, then his iPhone flew out of his bag. The cyclists I was overtaking all jinked to avoid it. Oh bum, only thing for it is to try and catch him, which I just managed to do before I blew up.

Further on, going along the riverside in Battersea I went past a women who had very oily hands where she was fiddling with her chain. I asked what was up and she told me that the chain was damaged and kept jumping off.

I felt the chain and it seemd fine, the chain (and bike) looked fairly new so it wasn't worn out. Looked closer and saw that it was one tooth on the chainwheel the was pushing the chain off, hmm, that's a bit bent, so I straightened it up but it was still pushing the chain off. Looked closer and I saw that the tip of the tooth was bent over at about 90 degrees. Whoops, no wonder it doesn't work. I filed the bent tip off and all was well.

Is it wrong to have sexual fantasies about cute young women with cute french accents who are all oily?

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ScumOfTheRoad on 14 September, 2010, 02:03:31 pm
Quote from: Zipperhead on 14 September, 2010, 02:01:48 pm

Is it wrong to have sexual fantasies about cute young women with cute french accents who are all oily?

No, but when you run their tip off it is.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 14 September, 2010, 02:05:31 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 14 September, 2010, 11:51:52 am
Oh, I wasn't crowing about beating somebody on what I know was a slower bike.  Just amused.

Oh, I get you, it's the annoyance of a slower rider pushing past and slowing you up repeatedly, when he or she should really be able to judge that they're slower the first time round.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 14 September, 2010, 02:51:43 pm

Quote from: Zipperhead on 14 September, 2010, 02:01:48 pm

Is it wrong to have sexual fantasies about cute young women with cute french accents who are all oily?



It's OK if it's massage oil
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 14 September, 2010, 02:54:55 pm
Beat the rain today but saw a chap texting as he steered round a roundabout, then waiting to cross a road and a light-controlled pedestrian crossing turned amber so I pushed off and a car accelerated, sped over the crossing, and skimmed my front wheel, the teenage driver smirking.

Forget a camera, I want a RPG bar-mounted.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Zipperhead on 14 September, 2010, 03:20:52 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 14 September, 2010, 02:51:43 pm

Quote from: Zipperhead on 14 September, 2010, 02:01:48 pm

Is it wrong to have sexual fantasies about cute young women with cute french accents who are all oily?



It's OK if it's massage oil

It was chain oil, so I suppose it's hell for me. Still, I was probably heading there anyway for all the other stuff.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ed_o_brain on 14 September, 2010, 03:24:15 pm
Riding to work today was liberating!
And I even received a compliment on my steed.


Reading Zipperheads posts.. I really should invest in a Leatherman.. (do they have an integral file?).. just for rescuing damsels in distress.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ScumOfTheRoad on 14 September, 2010, 03:34:54 pm
Quote from: ed_o_brain on 14 September, 2010, 03:24:15 pm

Reading Zipperheads posts.. I really should invest in a Leatherman.. (do they have an integral file?).. just for rescuing damsels in distress.

If you want to invest in the type of Leathermen that Zipperhead refers to, you'll have to come to Soho one night.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 14 September, 2010, 03:55:31 pm
Quote from: ed_o_brain on 14 September, 2010, 03:24:15 pm
Riding to work today was liberating!
And I even received a compliment on my steed.


Reading Zipperheads posts.. I really should invest in a Leatherman.. (do they have an integral file?).. just for rescuing damsels in distress.

My Leatherman has a file but I bought it for myself for my 20th birthday and models may have changed since then.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 14 September, 2010, 05:57:55 pm
Traffic in W London has been just horrendous since the schools have been back. However, I left at 0730 this morning so it was not too bad.
On the way home (blustery, light drizzle, traffic horrendous) I had one of those really unsettling rides:
First, heading west on King's Road - cyclist ahead of me cut up by moped idiot who pulls in, decides he needs to be elsewhere, pulls out without looking and nearly forces cyclist into the traffic. Shocked cyclist gets all wobbly, turns around to remonstrate with moped moron, and rides into the side of a parked car, which loses a wing mirror.
Next, much worse  :( Junction of King's Road and Lots Road. Cyclist heading west on King's Rd appeared to have been hit by BMW (or similar largish saloon) which was heading east on King's and turning right into Lot's. Boardman bike under front of BMW  :( Ambulance and numerous police in attendance. I think this had happened just minutes before.
Next, woman approaching from left just ahead of me arrives very quickly at the junction and drives straight into the cycle lane leaving me nowhere to go at all. I am very thankful that due to the above I was riding more slowly than usual and had been keeping my brakes dry.
Next (I've still hardly got a fucking mile from work), still on (New) King's, approaching car cleaning place nr Hurlingham Rd, employee of said emporium appears to have collected customer's car from nearby and is proceeding West, presumably to bring the car in for a clean. Cyclist ahead of me is iPod wearing BSO rider at a slow cruise but oblivious to his surroundings. Anyhoo, this isn't his fault but a more experienced cyclist might have anticipated this numptiness: employee notes cyclist on his inside (I can see this in the door mirror), indicates left and drives right across the front of him anyway  ::-) Result: customer will be collecting car that is clean but minus nearside wing mirror.
WTF's going on?
I am deeply worried about the cyclist on the Boardman  :( I could not see the rider but it looked not good. Just thinking that this is probably one of the riders that I pass / am passed by every day on the way in and out of work.  
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 14 September, 2010, 08:15:14 pm
I got a front wheel puncture just half a mile from home at 6:30 this morning. As it was pouring with rain, your hero wallked home, took Mrs G a second cuppa in bed, snugggled up for ten minutes then took the car to work.

 ;D :thumbsup:     :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 14 September, 2010, 08:41:23 pm
I don't know how you londoners survive it. Nothing happened on my commute as usual. Its a different sort of north south divide
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 14 September, 2010, 08:48:20 pm
This morning, a moronic woman in a wankpanzer pulled out across the road in front of me without once looking to her right.  If I were less cynical about drivers, I'd have been less prepared and gone across her bonnet.  If I'd been a car, she'd probably have been dead.

Coming home, I got wet.  Didn't realise how wet till I reached home and had to wring out my socks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 14 September, 2010, 09:04:22 pm
That was wet and a bit slow.  But I rode with Butterfly most of the way, which was lovely :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 14 September, 2010, 09:59:38 pm
Good ride in except for the silent treatment by a racing snake and the head wind.
Wet ride coming home after a long day.
At least I have a varied route tomorrow as I am off to Salisbury with the Nelson on the back.
I am tired mentally but tomorrow I have to give a presentation to an audience of rank.
Luckily I can do the subject without any prep but I will not be in the mood for any funny business.
If the biggest boss notices I am wearing black Reebok trainers it might be interesting too as that is not really part of my uniform ( but they do fit into the Nelson a lot better than any other black shoe / boot that I have) so beggars can't be choosers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 15 September, 2010, 08:33:37 am
Much better ride in this morning - lovely crisp morning  :) Colleague had passed the accident I saw yesterday at a slightly earlier stage: he had seen the cyclist being loaded on to the gurney; he didn't think it looked too bad, thankfully.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 September, 2010, 09:22:19 am
Brilliant ride this morning.  I kept re-passing the fools who went through red lights & pushed down ridiculously small gaps.  I'm happy to stay safer & wait - I got this old one junction at a time ;D

It's a good feeling zooming past a load of cyclists.  Felt like I had a personal downhill :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 15 September, 2010, 10:20:49 am
Great ride through the sunrise, had to get to my desk for an 8:00 call so kicked off at 5:40, shame the sun rose behind me ;-)

But, I did count my traffic lights.

198

Breaks down: 42 up to the City, 40 Aldgate to Oxford Circus, 39 Shepherds Bush, 40 Hanwell, 37 to Office (near Heathrow)

I shouldn't have been surprised but they do seem evenly spread, average 4.7 per km, one every 200 m .......... (higher in town, obviously)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 September, 2010, 10:23:34 am
That's a lot.

I managed a run of six red lights in a row coming out of Balham.  Not often that happens.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 15 September, 2010, 10:40:52 am
Lousy commute today — I had to stand the whole way.  Oh, how I hate being off the bike.  :(
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 15 September, 2010, 11:04:31 am
What a glorious morning, blue sky, no wind and cool
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 15 September, 2010, 11:14:30 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 15 September, 2010, 11:04:31 am
What a glorious morning, blue sky, no wind and cool

Yes. I know. I sat there looking out of the train window this morning wondering why the feck I'd decided to leave my bike at home today.  :(

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 15 September, 2010, 12:14:56 pm
On my way home last night (just getting into Deptford) on the A2 the buses were bunching up very close together, so something was not right. Sure enough, a motorcyclist was lying spread-eagled in the middle of the road. A cyclist had parked his Trek across the 2 lanes and was marshalling traffic away from the incident  :thumbsup: 2 minutes later the ambulances showed up. It was bloody slippery last night, I hope the motorcyclist is OK :(.

This morning was just a lovely commute in: it really is Autumn proper now!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 15 September, 2010, 01:35:52 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 14 September, 2010, 08:41:23 pm
I don't know how you londoners survive it.
+1
The most exciting thing that happened to me, thankfully, was that I borrowed No2daughter's mp3 player and was forced to listen to the radio in preference to Lady Gaga. All I could get it to tune into was radio 2. I gave up and sang to myself instead, thus spreading the pain of my knee to all around. Rabbits scuttled into the undergrowth to avoid it, crows squawked their disapproval and pheasants flew away from it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adam on 15 September, 2010, 07:54:56 pm
I've managed to make two women very unhappy today, by making some very proper suggestions to them!!

First one was this morning, as I was approaching the line of built up traffic just before the 30 mph zone coming into Harpenden.  A quick look behind shows there's a car some way off, so I stick my hand out and move across towards the middle of the road.  The car brakes and swerves around me, just stopping in time for the cars about 20 feet in front of me and avoiding the traffic island.  As I went round her, she got a suggestion from me that she might like to learn how to drive.  She just had a gormless look on her face as I zoomed down the middle of the road.

And then this afternoon, heading back home along the High Street, I'm in a line of traffic moving about 7 mph, approaching a mini roundabout.  I'm on the left hand side, with a kid on a little motorbike on the right hand side.  We're just following the Corsa in front, when I spot the driver is playing with the apps on her phone.  So I scoot up the inside, bang really hard on her side window, making her drop her phone in fright, and suggest she puts the phone down before she kills someone.  Which was quite apt really, as she was wearing a nurse's outfit.

She shouted something about how I shouldn't be hitting her car before she accelerated away, although the kid on the motorbike chased after her, and stuck about 1 foot off her rear bumper, I think to wind her up a bit more.

So a good day's commuting for me.  8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 15 September, 2010, 07:55:44 pm
I raised my voice at two cyclists this evening and met a third who deserved it.

Number one wasn't even on his bike; I was waiting at the lights so I could cross Fulham Road, he was approaching along the pavement from my left, pushing a fashion fixie.  Just as the lights turned, he stepped out into the road in front of me, looking firmly to his left - so away from the traffic he's blocking - with a bloody mobile phone pressed to his ear, the cock!.  A loud "Excuse, pal, do you mind NOT doing that?" was quite restrained, I felt.

Number two was another bloody RLJer at the junction of Stockwell Road and Clapham Road, who accelerated though the lights and would have hit me side on if I hadn't shouted.  Yes, I realise most cyclists who travel along Clapham Road aren't aware of the cycle path with its own set of lights that allows access across to Stockwell Road.  Not being aware of everything is why RLJing is so bloody stupid.

I met Number three when I overtook a bus that had stopped at the lights.  As I curved in front of it to take position on the left to wait for the lights, some tit who was undertaking it (on a tight corner where it's even more stupid than usual) screeched to a halt.  I know he only stayed still after that out of embarrassment, because when he eventually caught up with me at lights further on, he just trundled on through and did a right without signalling.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 15 September, 2010, 08:26:20 pm
NCN 45 to Salisbury.  Hilly.  Very windy.  Went past Gordon's again.  Didn't see him.
NCN 45 home.  Still hilly.  Still very windy.  Didn't see Gordon again either.
Tired when I got home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 15 September, 2010, 08:37:39 pm
I left work today, feeling tired and stressed. The weather was wet and windy.

Forty minutes later, I'm soaking wet but whooping round a huge roundabout at warp six*, slipstreaming a removal van.
I get home and feel fantastic.

I'd be a wreck without my cycling fix.  :thumbsup:



* edited: that's fatso warp six, which feels fast to me, but is actually a speed at which many other cyclists would probably topple over.  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 15 September, 2010, 08:42:08 pm
Totally agree G.
My 1.75 hour journey to DHQ was spent planning the presentation I was to give at 1030 in front of many rank.
The journey went quickly and easily as I was 'not really there'  ;D
Coming home was worse as the day was such a success and so draining that I was wrecked.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wowbagger on 15 September, 2010, 08:46:17 pm
My commute this afternoon was gruelling with an unremitting headwind. My top speed was 12.4 mph.

On the way back it was, of course, a different story.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 15 September, 2010, 09:02:39 pm
Had an interesting complaint from a car driver tonight on my way home. I was approaching a roundabout on the inside lane in the primary (wanted to go straight on and needed to make sure I wasn't left hooked - most of the traffic on the inside lane turns left) following the car in front at about 10mph. There was a car driving alongside me in the outside lane.

When I stopped at the roundabout waiting for a gap the driver of the car alongside wound her window down and complained loudly that by riding in the middle of the lane I was preventing her from pulling into my lane when she wanted to turn left - now she was in totally the wrong lane and what was I going to do about it... I very calmly suggested that she turned right from the lane she was in and do a complete 360 degrees around the roundabout... I also pointed out that I was riding in the middle of the lane precisely because I wanted to prevent a driver (e.g. her) left hooking me as it would make an awful mess of her nearside door and she didn't really want all that bother with the insurance people...

I was most restrained.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 16 September, 2010, 01:30:52 pm
Quote from: SlowCoach on 15 September, 2010, 09:02:39 pm
...and do a complete 360 degrees around the roundabout...

450 degrees, surely?

Yep, I've got my coat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kevina9 on 16 September, 2010, 02:49:48 pm
270 degrees actually, if you think about it.

Sorry, couldn't resist.   ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 16 September, 2010, 03:04:28 pm
I though that (it's three right hand turns, correct), but I settled on 450 'cos I thought she'd have to go all the round to where she was (360) another quarter turn (90) and then turn off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 16 September, 2010, 03:08:32 pm
If she went back the way she came, she'd have done 180 degrees.  Another 90 is 270.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 16 September, 2010, 03:11:30 pm
Chris L - Yes, but she's doing a full 360 degrees clockwise, then 90 degrees anti-clockwise, so it's 360 minus 90, not 360 plus 90.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 16 September, 2010, 03:23:40 pm
Quote from: SlowCoach on 15 September, 2010, 09:02:39 pm
When I stopped at the roundabout waiting for a gap the driver of the car alongside wound her window down and complained loudly that by riding in the middle of the lane I was preventing her from pulling into my lane when she wanted to turn left - now she was in totally the wrong lane and what was I going to do about it

Highway code says don't overtake if you are going to turn left immediately after the overtake.

Did she think of putting her left-hand indicators on?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 16 September, 2010, 03:32:50 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 16 September, 2010, 03:11:30 pm
Chris L - Yes, but she's doing a full 360 degrees clockwise, then 90 degrees anti-clockwise, so it's 360 minus 90, not 360 plus 90.

d.


<pedant>
Shouldn't it be 7.853981634 radians?
</pedant>
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 16 September, 2010, 03:44:13 pm
Quote from: SlowCoach on 15 September, 2010, 09:02:39 pm
... now she was in totally the wrong lane and what was I going to do about it... ...

I was most restrained.

Yup.  I'd have been tempted to be less so - my answer would probably have been on the lines of "Point and laugh?", said whilst shrugging the shoulders.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 September, 2010, 03:46:46 pm
Quote from: Ham on 16 September, 2010, 03:32:50 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 16 September, 2010, 03:11:30 pm
Chris L - Yes, but she's doing a full 360 degrees clockwise, then 90 degrees anti-clockwise, so it's 360 minus 90, not 360 plus 90.

d.


<pedant>
Shouldn't it be 7.853981634 radians?
</pedant>

I doubt it.

2*Pi radians in a circle, so we're talking

3/4(2*Pi)

or 1.5*Pi Radians.

4.7ish</uber-pedant>
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 16 September, 2010, 03:58:49 pm
Quote from: clarion on 16 September, 2010, 03:46:46 pm
Quote from: Ham on 16 September, 2010, 03:32:50 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 16 September, 2010, 03:11:30 pm
Chris L - Yes, but she's doing a full 360 degrees clockwise, then 90 degrees anti-clockwise, so it's 360 minus 90, not 360 plus 90.

d.


<pedant>
Shouldn't it be 7.853981634 radians?
</pedant>

I doubt it.

2*Pi radians in a circle, so we're talking

3/4(2*Pi)

or 1.5*Pi Radians.

4.7ish</uber-pedant>

<pedant-validation>

No, sorry. There is no question that the car is now travelling at 90 o from the orignal direction, but has travelled through 2.25 Pi Radians. The radian describes the arc, the degree just the angle.

</pedant-validation>
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 September, 2010, 04:02:32 pm
OK.  I don't see how it's described such an arc, but I'll give way (as I always do at a roundabout ;) )
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 16 September, 2010, 04:07:20 pm
Y'all are getting mighty confused between the angle which measures the change of direction of the car's nose, and the angle which measures the distance around the roundabout which the car has travelled.

On a sufficiently small roundabout you can go straight through without turning the wheel. That would make the first angle 0 and the second 180.

I'm not sure that bringing "arc" into it helps, and I'm certain that radians and degrees are equivalent. Also, 2.25 rad is a circle and an eighth, or a 45 degree net turn, so is wrongy wrong wrong no matter which angle you're talking about.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 September, 2010, 04:10:13 pm
So what's the answer, then?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 16 September, 2010, 04:12:13 pm
Quote from: clarion on 16 September, 2010, 04:10:13 pm
So what's the answer, then?

42.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 16 September, 2010, 04:18:28 pm
Quote from: clarion on 16 September, 2010, 04:10:13 pm
So what's the answer, then?
Keep on going round the roundabout until you can work out how to move into the proper lane correctly, you stupid b...

And no - she didn't indicate at all - she seemed to think that, as she always turns left there (as I was informed) - I ought to know...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 16 September, 2010, 04:26:31 pm
Quote from: HTFB on 16 September, 2010, 04:07:20 pm
Y'all are getting mighty confused between the angle which measures the change of direction of the car's nose, and the angle which measures the distance around the roundabout which the car has travelled.

On a sufficiently small roundabout you can go straight through without turning the wheel. That would make the first angle 0 and the second 180.

I'm not sure that bringing "arc" into it helps, and I'm certain that radians and degrees are equivalent. Also, 2.25 rad is a circle and an eighth, or a 45 degree net turn, so is wrongy wrong wrong no matter which angle you're talking about.

I was wrong when I typed 2.25 but right when I did the calculation. While degree and radian are interchangeable, here's a useful guide as to the difference Intuitive Guide to Angles, Degrees and Radians | BetterExplained (http://betterexplained.com/articles/intuitive-guide-to-angles-degrees-and-radians/) and shows why, when considering how this particular numpty might have circumnavigated the roundabout, radians are the pedants measure of choice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 16 September, 2010, 04:32:35 pm
I don't really get radians, wasn't ever taught them at school, but I've just read the page Ham linked to and I have what's probably a stupid question...

If you're giving the answer in radians, surely the answer depends on the size (radius) of the roundabout?

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 16 September, 2010, 04:32:52 pm
I should also point out that my original 450 included VAT and delivery.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 16 September, 2010, 04:36:02 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 16 September, 2010, 04:32:35 pm
If you're giving the answer in radians, surely the answer depends on the size (radius) of the roundabout?

Don't worry, I've just realised why it doesn't.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 16 September, 2010, 05:22:48 pm
Quote from: SlowCoach on 16 September, 2010, 04:18:28 pm
Quote from: clarion on 16 September, 2010, 04:10:13 pm
So what's the answer, then?
Keep on going round the roundabout until you can work out how to move into the proper lane correctly, you stupid b...

She'll go round it so many times she'll emerge in 1910.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 16 September, 2010, 06:42:55 pm
Just another dawdle along the river path and under the ECML.  A lady thanked me for slowing down for her dogs.  All very civilised.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RJ on 16 September, 2010, 08:32:51 pm
Traffic was light this morning, thanks I guess to the Pope   :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 September, 2010, 08:54:15 pm
Another nice ride adversely affected by the spang-o-matic rear wheel fitted to my Ridgeback.

Now, about that S3X...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 16 September, 2010, 10:05:31 pm
Had to work from HQ and need to take the laptop in to be reconfigured for the next 6 months - firewall and all.
So I got the MTB out and went along the canal.  Twas lovely.  Saw 3 herons and a kingfisher.  Beautiful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 17 September, 2010, 09:40:51 am
Got rear ended on London Bridge

I was waiting in the ASL when another cyclist squeezed past and stopped in front of me, beyond the ASL. Lights change; she moves off ever so slowly, I follow, also slowly, loking for the opportunity to overtake.

Then she lurches across my path as she mangles an attempt to change gear, and comes to a complete stop.  As do I - but not the car behind me.  Then she just rode off, oblivious.

Happily it was all so slow that no damage was done but I was pretty irritated.  I caught up with her a little further on and I'm afraid I gave her a bit of a mouthful about people who don't know how to ride their bike not getting in the way of those that do.  Set me up beautifully for a grumpy day  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 September, 2010, 09:44:10 am
Gah!  That's annoying.

despite having a heavy load, I managed to keep up reasonably well, and pass a few folk on more sporty bikes. :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 17 September, 2010, 09:47:02 am
Stuck to the canal all the way to avoid papal visit traffic chaos. It was a very pleasant evening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 17 September, 2010, 09:50:48 am
Quote from: RJ on 16 September, 2010, 08:32:51 pm
Traffic was light this morning, thanks I guess to the Pope   :-\

Well it heavy on my virtual commute going past his 'residence' this morning. I guess the power of prayer can only go so far :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 17 September, 2010, 11:11:12 am
I've had a bit more than a week of appalling driving from near the same school all week. Time for a grumpy letter to the head methinks!

This morning I got overtaken within yards of a junction. Then the driver sat alongside me, having failed to complete her overtake. I knew she wanted to turn left so sat still. She knew I was somewhere, but couldn't see me in the blindspots of her wankpanzer so also sat there.
We played like this for about 30 seconds until she eventually pulled out with much wheel squealing and roared off down the road (for about 100 yards) when she was again stuck in traffic and i overtook her.

I get something similar to this almost daily at the moment and it drives me nuts.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 17 September, 2010, 01:01:59 pm
I was slow. The boss looked at my bike in a "hungry today?" kind of way so I had to point out there was a tent and sleeping bag as well as lunch today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 17 September, 2010, 01:10:20 pm
They cut all the hedges in the lanes and on the A4119.  So I got my first puncture for ages  :-[  The tube had been in that tyre for a long time. It reluctantly needed to be pulled from the tyre.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 17 September, 2010, 06:12:12 pm
Finally - two mornings with long sleeved jersey.  :(

Still in shorts though  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 18 September, 2010, 10:45:43 am
6 degrees centigrade at the start of the commute day....brrrrr. Saturday morning commute in blissful as ever :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 18 September, 2010, 09:52:13 pm
If that was one of you, in the headphones, whom I got too close to in my Mobile Death Greenhouse on Brookmill Road behind Lewisham Station just now, sorry.

God, I hate driving.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 September, 2010, 10:22:43 am
Saw a weird off this morning. 

There was a group of us at the lights.  Some folk, including a chap on a Create ss I've seen a few times, edged forwards.  Not a problem - I pass most of them fairly quickly.

The lights changed.  We set off.

'Whoa!!' went up the shout, and we all stopped.  The Create rider and a chap on a Giant were rolling together on the deck.

It being a trendy fakenger ride, naturally assumptions were made.  Until I turned round to ensure there was no one about to rear end the lot of us.  Which was when I saw a purple thing.  It was an anodised crank, with toeclipped pedal attached.  Another rider also spotted it & picked it up.

'Dozy clot' I thought 'Left his crank bolts loose' ::-)

Not so.

The axle had sheared through.

I've never seen that before, so let me repeat it.  The pedal hadn't broken.  Nor had the crank at the pedal hole.  Nor at the axle hole.  The crank bolt hadn't come out.  The crank hole hadn't rounded out and slipped.  I've seen/heard of all of these before.  The axle had gone through torsional failure :o

Fortunately, beyond superficial grazes, neither rider was harmed, and the same for the bikes, so my tools & first aid weren't needed.  Once I'd checked that, I was on my way.

One other rider stopped briefly to check they were OK, but all the rest buggered off as soon as they could. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wascally Weasel on 20 September, 2010, 11:03:38 am
This actually happened to me once but it was a cheapish BSO that had hit the ground on the pedal side a fair few times.  I couldn’t work out what had happened at first, kept looking down foolishly for the pedal that wasn’t there anymore.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 20 September, 2010, 11:07:11 am
Very windy, head down. Didn't see the fallen 'workers on road' roadsign until too late, clipped it with rear wheel.

Rear tyre flat 40 min later. Dammit, that's a nearly new tyre!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 20 September, 2010, 02:30:16 pm
Commuted in on the Mixer for the first time in ages.  My left arm and wrist have been aching in a way which I believe is a legacy of the van hitting me.  I will have it looked at, but in the meantime the more upright stance on the flat bar road bike is going to be kinder to my arm bones.

Was stuck behind a school-run mum this morning, at one point, as the road clogged with parents in people-movers.  She decided to reverse to allow a car to get out of the jam.  Kind to him, not so kind to me who was right behind her and surely visible in her mirror if she'd bothered to look.  I escaped without damage, partly because of the noise made by the mothers on foot who were trying to cross and saw me under threat.

Tracked her up the road a bit; she was a crap, careless driver and nearly had a collision with another car when she barged through a roundabout.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moultonaught on 21 September, 2010, 12:58:21 pm
Riding home late (ish) last night  - got to Haddenham about 10pm - saw a group of obvious very drunk 'yooofs' meandering (just) along the pavement clutching near empty bottles...

prepared myself for the barrage of abuse - especially as I'm on a small wheeled 'shopping bike'  and instead received a bellowed:

"GO ON MY SON - GIVE IT SOME"

how kind to offer encouragement ....  had me chuckling  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 21 September, 2010, 03:00:41 pm
The weather was lovely and my legs have recovered from the 360km over Sat and Sun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 21 September, 2010, 04:36:53 pm
Oh, b4lls.

the angle iron I hit yesterday has slit the sidewall. Of a new tyre.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: thorny on 21 September, 2010, 06:04:22 pm
Had "Allez, allez, allez!" shouted at me this morning by security as I arrived at work. Quite entertaining.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 21 September, 2010, 06:10:56 pm
I'm really enjoying my 71" gear.  Makes for a more comfortable 30kph cruising pace even if I have to really jump on the pedals to accelerate from the lights.

I might say different if I didn't live in Flatland.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 21 September, 2010, 06:41:48 pm
Quote from: simonp on 21 September, 2010, 06:10:56 pm
I might say different if I didn't live in Flatland.

Should we start refering to you as Square (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flatland)? ;D

I haven't commuted for a couple of days, since I've been feeling a bit cruddy in the morning.  I think I may have become enlurgied at the weekend.  Hopefully I'll be over it by Friday for the FNRttC, although the Southend ride is pretty easy, and I can probably do it even if feeling a bit below the weather.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 September, 2010, 07:56:35 pm
I think I'm losing my commuting mojo. :(  The last couple of days it's felt like a long way home. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 21 September, 2010, 07:58:18 pm
Quote from: clarion on 21 September, 2010, 07:56:35 pm
I think I'm losing my commuting mojo. :(  The last couple of days it's felt like a long way home. 

Try it all by public transport one day.  That should help reset your commuting mojo.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 21 September, 2010, 08:37:19 pm
I'll ride home with you tomorrow if that helps?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 September, 2010, 08:43:02 pm
:-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 22 September, 2010, 12:02:25 am
Second day back on the Mixer.  I feel like I'm two-timing the fixie, although the Mixer is a lot of fun to ride in its own right.

On the way home, dropped into the Lambeth Cyclists monthly meeting, where I spotted some forum regulars having a drink.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 22 September, 2010, 12:13:12 am
Forumites having a drink?That's very unusual.They normally neck several bevvies ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 September, 2010, 09:43:07 am
Ah, that's better.  Back on fixed for the commute.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 22 September, 2010, 09:53:22 am
Tell me about it!  I was stuck on a bus this morning with pissheads, people with noisy colds etc for nearly an hour. :sick:  I can't wait for my left leg to start working again.

Quote from: Andrij on 21 September, 2010, 07:58:18 pm
Quote from: clarion on 21 September, 2010, 07:56:35 pm
I think I'm losing my commuting mojo. :(  The last couple of days it's felt like a long way home.  

Try it all by public transport one day.  That should help reset your commuting mojo.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 22 September, 2010, 09:58:04 am
Enboldened by my pain free knee I took the long way in and rode fast fast fast. Then, 8 miles later, I remembered I have a software user group meeting this afternoon in Earl Soham 40 miles from the office. A slow considering of alternative transport options and with a hearty shout of "ah bollox" did a u turn and had to really hammer it back home. Where, even if I hadn't been too late for a shower, the boys had used all the hot water, so I gave myself a quick deodorising wipe down and drove in. Now I feel icky.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 September, 2010, 10:04:45 am
:(  At least you got a short ride :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 22 September, 2010, 10:23:33 am
Quote from: Andrij on 21 September, 2010, 07:58:18 pm
Try it all by public transport one day.  That should help reset your commuting mojo.

My problem is that my public transport option is clean, nice, frequent, relatively cheap (just over £3 return) and takes the same time door-to-door as cycling, I also get to read a book/newspaper.

That being said I think I must have picked up Clarion's commuting mojo, my last train journey to/from work was August 13th.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 22 September, 2010, 10:53:59 am
Quote from: clarion on 21 September, 2010, 07:56:35 pm
I think I'm losing my commuting mojo. :( 

Me too. I've had a really shit couple of weeks in cycling terms. The 200 at the start of the month knocked me for six a bit and I haven't properly recovered. And the less I ride, the shitter I feel; the shitter I feel, the less I ride. Really need to break the vicious circle before I sink too far into the slough of despond.

It doesn't help that neither of my commuting bikes are fit to ride at the moment - won't take much to get them back on the road but I'm just too tired most evenings by the time I get home to do the necessary fettling.

 :(

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 22 September, 2010, 11:14:14 am
Sat at the lights at Coldhams Lane/Norman Way junction.  As they change a singlespeed shoots by.  "I'm not having this!" I think.

Unfortunately I had to go to about 34kph to slowly reel him in.  I got him at the Sainsburys roundabout, having caught him, as I judged the speed of traffic to maintain momentum.  Then I saw him reeling me in slowly so I upped the pace to about 37kph and he was gone.  I think he'd turned off.  I decide to continue with the fast pace, as I might be on for a PB now.  My legs are burning; I take the road route over the bridge, sprint around the "Wall of death" roundabout, overtake a truck at the Chesterton Road roundabout (it was stationary and just moving off and I was doing 35kph), 37kph down to Milton Road, straight across the roundabout and ease off a little on the gentle incline (really feeling it now).  12 minutes on the clock - this is a good time.  Down to Arbury Road, no traffic so straight out and up to 35kph again, but the lights are red at Campkin Road.  Oh no!  I predict getting stuck behind slow cars over speed cushions.  Yup.  Eventually we get past the speed cushions but the one remaining car that hasn't turned off has an old git at the wheel - 20mph max.  So I sprint past at about 42kph, round the corner, avoid the pedestrian who was just stepping out, past the massive speed cushions, and left onto Kings Hedges Road - where my adversary appears to my right.  Well, the sly bastard had taken the short cut over Coldhams Common! So up to 40kph again, he's draughting me and I didn't manage to drop him.  We both pull into the office car park...  ;D

Because of the cars on Campkin Road, it was 17:45 (28.2kph rolling average) which is not a PB :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wascally Weasel on 22 September, 2010, 11:19:42 am
Quote from: citoyen on 22 September, 2010, 10:53:59 am
Quote from: clarion on 21 September, 2010, 07:56:35 pm
I think I'm losing my commuting mojo. :(

Me too. I've had a really shit couple of weeks in cycling terms. The 200 at the start of the month knocked me for six a bit and I haven't properly recovered. And the less I ride, the shitter I feel; the shitter I feel, the less I ride. Really need to break the vicious circle before I sink too far into the slough of despond.

It doesn't help that neither of my commuting bikes are fit to ride at the moment - won't take much to get them back on the road but I'm just too tired most evenings by the time I get home to do the necessary fettling.

 :(

d.

I find that one day of commuting by train encourages me to cycle the next day, if I do a week or more by train I become habituated to the subtle and not-so-subtle indignities (on bad weeks it’s probably the expense that mostly keeps me riding every day – my return trip is between £5-7.50 per day and that quickly adds up.

I find that varying my route is the only way to keep my commute fresh, if I stick to the same route too often I really do get tired of it, especially if I have a few bad days in a  row or a long run of bad weather.  I’m lucky in that I have enough minor deviations I can make enroute to vary my journey a lot.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 22 September, 2010, 11:25:09 am
I have the great fortune to have the choice between bike and Transpennine trains. Those who caught the train back from Scarborough last Sat know what a gouging lot of bastards Transpennine are.

York - Leeds return fair: £13.30
York - Leeds one-way: £11
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 22 September, 2010, 11:25:51 am
It is pleasing to see the youth of today commuting to college by bike rather than by car.  But please...

...this is a busy path, with lots of commuters, and it's not really on to take the whole path up just so you can meander along and chat to your mates.  If you're in large group and you see or hear someone else coming then have the manners to pull over to one side of the path to allow them to pass.

Other than that, carry on cycling.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 22 September, 2010, 11:48:32 am
If you want to commute to work on an expensive carbon road bike, in team gear, with a pointy racing helmet, MTFU and cross Chelsea bridge as part of the traffic.  If you ride over the narrow and crowded commuter path in all that, you reveal yourself as a pathetic posing tosser.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 September, 2010, 11:49:40 am
</NelsonMuntz>
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 22 September, 2010, 11:52:47 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 22 September, 2010, 11:48:32 am
If you want to commute to work on an expensive carbon road bike, in team gear, with a pointy racing helmet, MTFU and cross Chelsea bridge as part of the traffic.  If you ride over the narrow and crowded commuter path in all that, you reveal yourself as a pathetic posing tosser.

Must be related to the fellows from last night's rant (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=2177.msg726343#msg726343).
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 September, 2010, 11:54:11 am
I doubt he could ride that far ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 22 September, 2010, 12:17:18 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 22 September, 2010, 11:25:09 am
I have the great fortune to have the choice between bike and Transpennine trains. Those who caught the train back from Scarborough last Sat know what a gouging lot of bastards Transpennine are.

York - Leeds return fair: £13.30
York - Leeds one-way: £11

The assumption is that the single fare would be half the return fare, that ain't so.

Return: £13.30
Single: £6.65

It's closer to the truth that the return fare is more greatly discounted (and/or subsidised further by the Government whichever way you read it), i.e. they should be closer to:-

Single £11
Return £22

Still complaining about gouging?

(The real prices should balance out at something like £8 and £16 for that example but that'll never happen with the current ticket price subsidisation in the UK.)

BTW, the usual trick which I used to do when going to/from University is to buy a return and try and sell the return portion of the ticket at the end station. If you find someone to buy it you can usually get close to the full single ticket price back from it and you're only risking a pound or two if no-one wants to buy it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 September, 2010, 12:20:21 pm
Returns heading out of London have usually been cheaper than returns into London.  When I was a regular visitor, I bought my tickets in London.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 22 September, 2010, 12:40:39 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 22 September, 2010, 12:17:18 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 22 September, 2010, 11:25:09 am
I have the great fortune to have the choice between bike and Transpennine trains. Those who caught the train back from Scarborough last Sat know what a gouging lot of bastards Transpennine are.

York - Leeds return fare: £13.30
York - Leeds one-way: £11

The assumption is that the single fare would be half the return fare, that ain't so.

Too many assumptions, Greenbank.

£13.30 for a 30minute, 25mile journey?

I'm complaining about both fares. The fare is absolutely outrageous, imo.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 22 September, 2010, 01:49:45 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 22 September, 2010, 12:40:39 pm

I'm complaining about both fares. The fare is absolutely outrageous, imo.

The most complained about fare at the moment is Eurostar Standard Premier.  This has downgraded the food, no champagne and put the average price up compared to the predecessor Leisure Select. Standard class for me from now on.


Back on topic.  Got passed by someone on a downhill today which is OK, I am not a quick rider.  However the gap closed when we got to a slight rise.  On the next flat bit my superior commuting skills allowed me to pass him on the school queue section.  He was filtering inside, I was outside the queue.  Just in case he caught me I pedaled to 40kph which seemed to dispose of him.  I obviously continued briskly and arrived in work in the time 57 minutes.  My first ever sub hour morning commute. :)

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 September, 2010, 01:58:52 pm
No champagne? :o

Dear oh dear.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 22 September, 2010, 02:09:56 pm
Quote from: clarion on 22 September, 2010, 01:58:52 pm
No champagne? :o

Dear oh dear.

I have always regarded the Champagne as a welcome gimmick but the food is the main issue I think. Does not matter for a short jaunt to Paris.  On my longer journeys to the Alps the cooked meal was appreciated.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Zipperhead on 22 September, 2010, 02:16:11 pm
I was enjoying the ride in late this morning, I'd been at the dentist and had rather a big chunk of work done, just riding along the embankment with some music playing enjoying the sunshine.

A pedestrian light changed so I stopped, then I didn't.  Not only I not stop, I briefly reached take off velocity. Whoops, two of us went down in a pile of tangled bikes and bodies. It seems that when I stopped, the guy behind was a bit too close and didn't dump his velocity quickly enough.

I was lucky, I was at the top of the pile, he was at the bottom, so I untangled myself and the bikes and helped him up and over to the side of the road. I was doubly lucky, apart from a minor scratch on one leg and the bars being twisted round a bit I was undamaged (fortunately the dental work was undisturbed), but the peds thought that I was in a bad way because of the blood around my mouth  ;D

Poor Winston though, apart from some deep looking cuts on one hand he was in a lot of pain in one arm and couldn't move it, so called for an ambulance. I stayed with him until that came and they took him away. I hope he's alright, even though he ran into me, I feel really sorry for him.

What a novel experience, being taken from behind by an 18 stone gentleman.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 22 September, 2010, 02:24:17 pm
Quote from: Wascally Weasel on 22 September, 2010, 11:19:42 am
I find that one day of commuting by train encourages me to cycle the next day,

Unfortunately, the length of my commute means it's not an either/or option - I have to get the train for at least some of the way. And I've paid for an annual season ticket, so it makes no difference to the cost. Can't complain about that though - after all, it was my choice to move out of London and live in the provinces. But I definitely feel much better if I've spent at least part of my journey in the open air rather than crammed into a train carriage.

Quote
I find that varying my route is the only way to keep my commute fresh, if I stick to the same route too often I really do get tired of it, especially if I have a few bad days in a  row or a long run of bad weather.  I’m lucky in that I have enough minor deviations I can make enroute to vary my journey a lot.

Good idea. I'll have to think about doing that myself. I've been doing a morning route that's more or less direct to a station 26km away, but I could just as easily do a circular 26km route to a nearer station.

Route fatigue isn't the main problem at the moment, though - the real difficulty is getting out of bed early enough for a ride. Which is not made easier by the fact that the mornings are starting to get noticeably colder and darker.

But I could kick myself when I look out of the office window and see it's a gloriously bright, sunny day, ideal for cycling, and yet again I don't have my bike with me.  :facepalm:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 22 September, 2010, 02:28:02 pm
Quote from: Zipperhead on 22 September, 2010, 02:16:11 pm
helped him up and over to the side of the road.

Well, I suppose it's not that easy to pick up an 18-stone man and throw him.

Quote
blood around my mouth ... some deep looking cuts on one hand

I see.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moultonaught on 22 September, 2010, 02:43:26 pm
Nice ride in this morning.  Sunny, and not too many overly close overtakes and best of all I stopped at the next (lovely) village to us  to visit the coffee shop there and to have a drink and share a bacon sarnie with my lovely partner, as she had taken the day off to do some decorating.

But, like others,  my commuting Mojo is also suffering this week - admittedly after a manic few weeks of work but my usual 35 minute ride each way (4  days a week) is taking near 45 - 50 minutes   :facepalm:

When there's a strong headwind fair enough - but there hasn't been  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 22 September, 2010, 03:05:37 pm
Ooh bugger, Zippers, I'm glad you're OK.

p.s. perhaps you and Charlotte could compare experiences about being taken from behind by larger folk?  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 22 September, 2010, 03:09:04 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 22 September, 2010, 03:05:37 pm
Ooh bugger, Zippers, I'm glad you're OK.

Oh yeah, that too. Sorry if my last post lacked any suitably sympathetic noises. Hope there aren't too many sore bits.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Zipperhead on 22 September, 2010, 03:21:10 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 22 September, 2010, 03:09:04 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 22 September, 2010, 03:05:37 pm
Ooh bugger, Zippers, I'm glad you're OK.

Oh yeah, that too. Sorry if my last post lacked any suitably sympathetic noises. Hope there aren't too many sore bits.

d.


No it's quite ok to mock me, I am entirely sore bits free from the collision.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 22 September, 2010, 03:36:18 pm
Quote from: Zipperhead on 22 September, 2010, 03:21:10 pm
I am entirely sore bits free from the collision.

My back is clearing up but my ankle is still sore from the collision two weeks ago.  Would you feel better if I transfer that over to you?  :)
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Zipperhead on 22 September, 2010, 04:34:16 pm
Well, I said I was pain free from the collision, but I've had plenty of pain from the dental work thank you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 22 September, 2010, 05:06:20 pm
Quote from: Zipperhead on 22 September, 2010, 04:34:16 pm
Well, I said I was pain free from the collision, but I've had plenty of pain from the dental work thank you.

Drugs FTW!  :thumbsup:
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 22 September, 2010, 05:17:20 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 22 September, 2010, 12:40:39 pm
Too many assumptions, Greenbank.

Ah, sorry, fair enough.

Quote from: Andrij on 22 September, 2010, 05:06:20 pm
Drugs FTW!  :thumbsup:

The worst dental pain I've had was relieved by the injection prior to some root-canal treatment.

The second worst dental related pain I've had was from the result of copious injections required to numb my gums and teeth during the second 6 hour session of dental work (fitting 10 caps).

The second was a deeper and more intense pain but I only had to suffer it for 4 or 5 hours or so, unlike the 48 hours I endured the pain before the root-canal which is why that wins despite being less painful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 22 September, 2010, 05:50:03 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 22 September, 2010, 05:17:20 pm


The worst dental pain I've had was relieved by the injection prior to some root-canal treatment.

The second worst dental related pain I've had was from the result of copious injections required to numb my gums and teeth during the second 6 hour session of dental work (fitting 10 caps).

The second was a deeper and more intense pain but I only had to suffer it for 4 or 5 hours or so, unlike the 48 hours I endured the pain before the root-canal which is why that wins despite being less painful.

That's the stuff of nightmare's :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 22 September, 2010, 05:59:39 pm
The worst dismal dental disaster I've had was when a dentist filled OVER an abscess. That left me screaming for an an emergency dentist at 3 a.m. one morning (think it was Xmas Day) For whatever reason, the dental hospital emergency wasn't available. I eventually contacted a dentist who opened up shop for me and sorted it out. That wasn't the end of the story, as just over a year later I got a letter from the health authority telling me that the guy who had treated me had just died of AIDS. After much deliberation, re-running the procedure through my head a few times and convincing myself that exchange of body fluids could have been possible, I had the test and was cleared. A very strange episode, indeed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 22 September, 2010, 06:23:22 pm
Some of my childhood toothache was worse than anything I've had as an adult (and only about half a dozen of my teeth are unfilled; I have 9 crowns and 6 root-filled teeth). Earache is by far the worst pain I've had as an adult but I mostly lead a fairly painfree life.
Title: Dental pain one-upmanship
Post by: HTFB on 22 September, 2010, 06:37:51 pm
It's possible to smash a tooth in two so that half of it is a chunk of enamel only held in place by the living nerve.

This was fine1 as long as my jaw and skull were still so broken that I could only lie on my back or right side; once they'd healed enough that I could turn my head in my sleep, my tongue would flop onto that tooth and at the slightest touch---the maximal doses of paracetamol and NSAID, and generous prescription of neat codeine, stood no chance at all.

[1] for infinitesimal values of "fine".


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 22 September, 2010, 10:16:44 pm
In four months of alternating between fixed and geared commuting, I've never carried over a habit from one to the other - until today.  Approaching a roundabout at speed on the Mixer, some bastard decides to ignore my right of way and I have to stop damn quick.  So I brake, front brake only cause my fixie only has the one brake, while pushing back hard on the pedals.  Only this isn't the fixie.  So the combination of sudden application of front disk brake and my left foot kicking sharply back brings the rear wheel to the right and I skid to a stop right on the dotted white lines, having turned through 90 degrees.  Looked damn impressive, so I pretended that I meant to do it and carried on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 23 September, 2010, 12:09:30 am
I was holding my own in traffic heading under Holborn Viaduct, probably 25+ mph. The was a lady in the middle of the road waiting to cross, letting the cars pass. Looks straight at me and steps out right into my path. It's only a bike after all. I appealed to whomever controls these things to suspend the usual operation of inertia and momentum. (Look, it was only for a few seconds after all, and no one would have really noticed.) Anyway, my appeal was summarily dismissed.

Helpfully, it seems the powers that be had also communicated to her that I wouldn't be stopping any time soon, so she decided the stop instead. Right in front of me. No idea how I missed her but I'll claim some kind of supreme ninja bike skills. Or luck. There is less rubber on my tyres than there used to be.

And what did she holler at me? “Watch where you are going!”

Thanks for the advice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 September, 2010, 08:55:29 am
At the top of Balham Hill, I was a short space behind some cars, but still moving at 20kph.  A woman at a give way on the right watched the cars go past, then set off directly across my path.

I stopped, losing a wee bit of rubber, and said (rather than shouted) 'fookin' 'ell!' as I missed hitting her side on by about 200mm.

The most amazing thing was that she was on a bike! :o

Nice one, too - no nodder, this.  I do hope that she gets noticed more than she notices.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 23 September, 2010, 10:17:35 am
What a horrible commute.  >:(

Lots of stupid close overtakes - surprisingly only the 4x4 drivers seemed to be giving me a wide berth.

And loads of diesel all over the roads.

The only plus was the cement lorry blocking Cherry Hinton Road (a main road) whilst delivering.  There were looooooooooooonnnnnnnnnnng queues both ways but I was able to hop up on to the (shared use0 pavement and sail past the blockage - and then get a clear road the other side.   ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 23 September, 2010, 11:12:55 am
I thought today was worse than usual.  More cars than normal.  One in particular at the Sainsburys roundabout had a couple of gos.  46kph in primary sorted that out.  You can see the diesel because it's wet (but not wet enough to wash it away) and the drivers are driving like t**ts because it's wet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 23 September, 2010, 11:47:15 am
On the plus side for my commute, I picked up a GroundEffect parcel from the Post Office.  Nn the downside, even though it was drizzling pretty much all the way in, it was light enough that it was probably evaporating from me as fast as it accumulated, but for the last five minutes or so, the heavens decided to open.  Bugger. <drip>
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 23 September, 2010, 11:57:15 am
On the plus side, my commute was a breeze, in the sunshine too.   :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 23 September, 2010, 11:57:31 am
I nearly had a crash. I was slowing for a roundabout when the van in front started to pull away so I resumed pedaling. The van stalled and the space I expected to enter was still occupied.  I grab the brakes. The front does its job but the back of the bike swung round.  I just about kept balance.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Speshact on 23 September, 2010, 12:58:40 pm
Very pleasant ride from Shepherds Bush across Hyde Park and home as the rain was tipping down.  I was snug and smug with my Goretex hat and shoes, rainlegs and waterproof top. Very few people around, lots of lovely geese by and on the path (and loads of geese poo).

Passed a couple of other appropriately clad cyclists who were clearly equally enjoying a dry ride in the wet judging by the cheery grins we gave each other.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 23 September, 2010, 01:10:56 pm
There was a girl idling on a corner by Battersea Park in a baby-doll dress and PVC leggings.  Not sure what that was supposed to advertise but it probably shouldn't be on air before the watershed.  Not when I'm trying to concentrate on the traffic, anyway.

Had a pleasant if brief chat with a fellow cyclist while waiting at the lights to cross Fulham Road.  He and I had both been all but pinned to the wall of Chelsea Bridge by the traffic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 23 September, 2010, 10:21:03 pm
Wet when I left home to go to work so I put my Gore-tex on instead of an over layer.
Just before I was supposed to leave work it absolutely tipped down.  Biggest rain drops I have seen in years.  Thunder / lightening and the world went very dark.
So I kept working for a further two hours and then left.
Made it 18 miles towards home when it repeated the above.  I took refuge under a large row of big trees.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 24 September, 2010, 01:33:46 pm
Quote from: Grub on 23 September, 2010, 10:21:03 pm
Wet when I left home to go to work so I put my Gore-tex on instead of an over layer.
Just before I was supposed to leave work it absolutely tipped down.  Biggest rain drops I have seen in years.  Thunder / lightening and the world went very dark.
So I kept working for a further two hours and then left.
Made it 18 miles towards home when it repeated the above.  I took refuge under a large row of big trees.


Hide from the rain?

Wuss ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 24 September, 2010, 02:55:40 pm
Tonight's post-work ride comes with the promise of the mother of all tailwinds...

Except yet again I don't have my bike with me today.  :facepalm:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 24 September, 2010, 08:33:11 pm
Despite the fact that I am tired and demotivated and it's 20:30, I am going to cycle home because a) I'll be a third of the way home in the time it would take me to walk to the nearest station and b) I can't really conceive of the concept of not cycling home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: domesticated ape on 24 September, 2010, 09:23:53 pm
I've been really lucky with the rain the last couple of days, yesterday I rode in when it was dry, sat at work watching is pee down with rain all day, then rode home in the dry again!

Today I only got rained on for the last few miles on the way home, was bloody freezing though, don't think I've had many commuting days when it was colder going home at 4:30pm than on the way in at 7am
!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mr endon on 24 September, 2010, 09:37:46 pm
Wonderful tailwind this morning. Cold rain and headwind this evening, compounded by a p*nct*re miles from home. Re-seating a Schwalbe marathon by streetlight in the cold rain with numb thumbs was much as you remember it.
Then out into the countryside beyond any street or house lighting. Sky clear to the east and a ripe full moon and bright Jupiter. Rain on me. Ominous clouds to the west, darker above and paler below a thrilling moonbow.
That's the nature of cycle commuting isn't it? It duffs you up then thrills you, grinds and delights you by turns.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 26 September, 2010, 05:19:00 pm
Quote from: mr endon on 24 September, 2010, 09:37:46 pm
That's the nature of cycle commuting isn't it? It duffs you up then thrills you, grinds and delights you by turns.

Ain't that the truth?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 27 September, 2010, 11:02:31 am
Today I listened to the telly weather forecast.  They threatened cool temperatures so for the first time this Autumn I wore my knickers and gilet. I was feeling like a wimp as I rode along but noticed that other riders were wearing longs and windproof jackets. I still suspect I could wear less but I think I got it about right. Nice tight knickers show off the legs and impress the desperate females more than a bare leg.




Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 September, 2010, 11:03:42 am
I rode fixed today, spinning along nicely with the peloton.

Then I changed up a gear :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moultonaught on 27 September, 2010, 11:08:59 am
For the first time in a very long time I actually managed to eat breakfast before I left the house this morning.

Usually a combination of  rushing to get sprogggles out to the school bus on time, and not being a morning person and not being able to face food until I'm properly awake means I usually have some cereal at my desk (after the 35-40 min bike ride and the 45 min train journey)

No surprise really  - but  having some fuel in me made a huge difference to my ride.... must try and maintain the good habit ....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 27 September, 2010, 11:13:18 am
I fettled the seat angle on Friday on the way home, but close to the end.
Yesterday after cleaning the Etape I torqed the bolts to give me confidence that it would not slip during my sometimes 'pave' type ride to work.
No issues there.
But now that I am sitting nearly perfectly for my taste I notice that I have a much lighter touch on the bars.
This had the unerving impact of a much more twitchy front end; i.e. it did not take much to turn the bars.
It was a much more lively commute to work as a result.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 27 September, 2010, 11:15:26 am
Today was the first commute on fixed since I swapped the 14T sprocket for a 15T. Weird!

There's a small lumpy bit on my route and I positively breezed up it.  :thumbsup:

Coming down the other side was... interesting. On the whole, I quite like the new lower gearing. Doesn't seem to be any slower on the flat, and is much nippier away from lights and weaving through traffic. Leg-braking also seems easier.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 27 September, 2010, 11:50:40 am
On yesterday's commute - pushy tailgating driver with great forward planning:


    YouTube
        - M151YGH tailgaiting
   (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OWJRXQkccVQ)

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 27 September, 2010, 12:47:02 pm
Nice contrast there between different drivers Mikey. 

On my commute this morning I tailgated lots of cyclists in a really reckless way - hardly more than a couple of feet off their back wheels and at quite some speed.  If any of them had unshipped a chain or something, they'd have been under my wheels in a flash - no space for braking at all.  For good measure I encroached on all the green bike boxes I found and also managed to bash into several overhangning branches and even clipped a signpost by the side of the road. 

My vehicle was a 176 bus and I was on the top deck.  Still wondering whether to report the driver. >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 27 September, 2010, 12:53:23 pm
Ooh yes, please report that driver.  He/she must be one of the unusual few bad eggs driving buses.

It must be autumn, btw., I've had many commutes with no incidents worth speaking of, probably 100,000 driver interactions.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 27 September, 2010, 12:54:45 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 27 September, 2010, 11:50:40 am
On yesterday's commute - pushy tailgating driver with great forward planning:


    YouTube
        - M151YGH tailgaiting
   (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OWJRXQkccVQ)

Are you sure he wasn't just trying to make sure you knew that he was planning to turn off in a minute, so don't worry about letting him overtake because it's unnecessary? ;)

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 27 September, 2010, 01:17:07 pm
This morning it was cold(er)

It's the first time I've worn my coat all the way to work.  Normally I get to the top of Culm Davey and remove it coz I'm too warm
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smurphboy on 27 September, 2010, 08:18:22 pm
I like my commute on days like today. Just enough to drizzle to keep you cool but not enough to get you wet. It keeps the part-timers at home too.

I also pulled off a great trick today. I got my rear wheel to lift under braking. Of course, my audience, an idiot on a BSO who pulled out into the cycle lane without looking from a crowd of people only saw / heard the last part - which was largely Anglo-Saxon and looks awesome on my GPS track.

I'm really glad I got disc brakes on the commuter.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dinamo on 27 September, 2010, 08:23:43 pm
Quote from: vorsprung on 27 September, 2010, 01:17:07 pm
This morning it was cold(er)

Yes, but I was lovely and warm in my YACF winter jersey  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Julian on 27 September, 2010, 09:33:45 pm
I got a tailwind both ways.

That has never happened before.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 September, 2010, 09:35:10 pm
No tailwind.  Just your AWESOME POWER
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 27 September, 2010, 09:36:43 pm
I had a dead calm both ways, but that was preferable to Friday's headwind both ways.

I think headwind both ways is currently beating tailwind both ways by a factor of 5 to 1, over a 5 year sampling period.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 27 September, 2010, 10:16:54 pm
Quote from: rogerzilla on 27 September, 2010, 09:36:43 pm
I had a dead calm both ways, but that was preferable to Friday's headwind both ways.

I think headwind both ways is currently beating tailwind both ways by a factor of 5 to 1, over a 5 year sampling period.

Agreed totally.  I also third the 'it was colder' this morning view.  Wish I had worn my ACF winter jersey.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 27 September, 2010, 10:25:48 pm
Quote from: rogerzilla on 27 September, 2010, 09:36:43 pm
I had a dead calm both ways, but that was preferable to Friday's headwind both ways.

I think headwind both ways is currently beating tailwind both ways by a factor of 5 to 1, over a 5 year sampling period.

Thats because any tail wind of less than 15 mph will feel like a head wind at your speeds. Your constantly trying to overtake it.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 28 September, 2010, 09:26:04 am
Damp road, some chutney, a diesel slick and a 90o corner all at the bottom of a hill.  Eep!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 28 September, 2010, 09:31:39 am
To Lowery Demolition.

Quote
Good morning,

This is just a very quick note to you to commend the driving standard of one of your employees this morning. He was behind the wheel of one of your trucks heading from Hampton towards Sunbury Cross on the A308 at about 08.35 this morning. He was towing a trailer that had a number of large empty wooden cable reels. The registration plate was LL followed by four digits. I hope this is enough for you to be able to identify the driver.

I cycle this route daily and have become hardened to the general levels of inconsiderateness displayed by a small minority of drivers, of cars, vans, buses and trucks, though it has to be said that truck drivers are generally far better on average than the run of the mill motorist.

However, this morning your driver was exemplary. He waited patiently behind me for a safe place to pass and did so in an unflustered manner, leaving me plenty of room as he passed and he didn't move in until he was well past me. I followed him through the traffic and he did exactly the same when caught behind another cyclist a mile up the road. Here he had to contend with a long traffic jam on the other side of the road so had to wait until that was clear. Again, when he overtook the cyclist he did so perfectly. Throughout he didn't gun the engine or stand on the brakes, but controlled his vehicle fluently and smoothly.

Apologies if this sounds over the top but his ability behind the wheel made him stick out. In case you're wondering I am not a serial letter writer. In six years of doing this commute this is only the third time I have written to anyone to commend a driver.

I do hope you are able to identify the driver and if so, please pass my comments on to him.

I drafted this chap for a couple of miles until he hit the traffic queue for Sunbury Cross. As I went past him he poked his head out of his window and with a broad grin called down "38mph !!"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 28 September, 2010, 09:39:55 am
 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 28 September, 2010, 09:46:50 am
It started off foggy when I left the house but by the time I got to the top of the Blackdowns it was a glorious sunny morning
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Christophe on 28 September, 2010, 10:03:43 am
Normally I'm quite calm an zen like whilst commuting and am quite pragmatic when it comes to near misses and foolish driving.
Lost it though this morning with a car driver who cut me up so he could literally skid to a halt at the apporaching traffic lights. I banged on his window so hard I almost broke it (which incidentally scared the living crap out of him) and began a foul mouthed tirade at him while he looked on aghast.

Felt much better for it though and continued on in my usual calm manner
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 28 September, 2010, 10:31:53 am
Gah.

Left home a bit late, but no problem I had plenty of time before my first meeting.
Heavier traffic than normal, with a few sets of roadworks causing tailbacks and delays, even for me on my bike.

20 miles in I got a visitation :( This put me further behind, so I hit heavier traffic which slowed me down.
30 miles in I get a phone call from my wife; my daughter was stuck in the house as my wife had unthinkingly engaged the deadlock when she left. Called my daughter to talk her through getting out of the house, then her school to let them know she was going to be late but it wasn't her fault (luckily she cycles in so didn't need to catch the school bus).

Then more roadworks and kamikaze London cyclists. Walked in just as the meeting was starting.



Still better than driving though  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moultonaught on 28 September, 2010, 10:50:26 am
Rubbish moment  spoiled the mojo of my commute home last night

wet roads. dusk, me with flashing LED lights on front and rear and a high viz vest (and a bright yellow Moulton which is hardly inconspicuous!)

Progressing at a (by my standards) reasonable pace  down the country B road - which is the bulk of my route  to/from home - approaching a cross roads - with the road I'm on having right of way

Car approaching me is waiting to turn right across me and impresses me by waiting for me to pass even  I'd expected her to nip across.

A queue of about 5 or 6 cars has built up behind the car waiting to turn  - so the opposite lane is blocked and as I'm level with the queue of stationary cars in the other lane from behind I hear the unmistakable sound of the car behind in a  (not insignificant) skid on a greasy road  - sounding like all wheels were fully locked up.

I didn't look round as I didn't want to  risk wobbling so just waited for either the bang of either him hitting the stationary queue of cars or me.  :o

and thankfully neither happened.

100 yards later a elderly Peugeot with a young chap at the wheel over took me (giving me lots of room  :-\ ) with the classic I'm looking straight ahead and am not going to make eye contact even though  the cyclist I'm overtaking is telling me in no uncertain terms what he thinks of  the standard of my driving

Was surprised how much it shook me up - I guess the not being able to do anything- is why -  as there was no where I could go  a the verge at the side of the road wasn't go up-able at that point  (Moultons don't bunny hop too well ;D)

still at least it was only my mojo that was  damaged and nothing else. 

Felt myself tensing up every time a car approached from behind on my ride in this morning though...  :(

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 28 September, 2010, 12:54:27 pm
At the moment I can not use the unbreakable commuter bike at the moment because the front wheel has worn out. So I am using my Audax bike which has lightweight tyres.  Last night I needed to get home early so sods law dictated that I should have a puncture. Phone home and say I will be late.

This morning I found the tyre flat again.  Did not have time to find the cause.  I searched last night and assumed it was an in and out event.  I swapped the tyre as well as the tube and rode to work.  Annoyingly I was not late enough to avoid the school runs completely so was still held up a bit and arrived at work slightly late.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Zipperhead on 28 September, 2010, 02:22:55 pm
I have a terrible admission to make....

Yesterday morning on the way to work as I was (fairly gently) pulling away from some lights I heard something go "ting". Hmm, I wonder what that was, thought I. A quick check showed nothing broken, but then I remembered what makes that noise, a spoke breaking.

So last night I was taking it easy on the way home when (here comes the confession) I was overtaken by a Boris Bike. I clocked him at 18mph along the Embankment.

When I went to take the sprocket off, I found that my chain whip would only fit on two teeth - I guess that means that the sprocket is worn out!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 28 September, 2010, 04:11:55 pm
I don't believe that after you overtook me on your tricycle!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 28 September, 2010, 06:30:46 pm
There was wool all over Bingham Park today, and when I say wool, I mean like fresh fleece, as if a flock of sheep had been through and got caught on the shrubbery.  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cal on 28 September, 2010, 06:49:48 pm
Three trips to and from work and head office totalling 23 miles.  Great to be out for the first time in a week after being diagnosed with a prolapsed disc in my spine.  Thankfully my time on the bike is much better than sitting down here at the computer and it should recover fully in a few weeks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: klaas on 28 September, 2010, 07:30:07 pm
On the commute last Thursday, I stopped at all red lights. Just had a huge project – that I had worked on really hard – rejected, couldn’t concentrate on anything and thought it would be better for my (and others’) safety to stop at red lights. VERY strange experience: like death, like the utter calmness of old people dressed in beige and shoes with Velcro straps who have given up on life and are ready for death. Next morning, I felt hugely better, passed numerous cars and lories left, right, and via the pavement, screamed through all the red light on my commute. Finally! Life, yes! Good adrenalin! I felt on top of the world. Arrived at work to find that my next project is probably going to be cancelled too. Alas. Despair. No choice but to take non-cycle transport home. Kicked several dogs, kids, and OAPs, so not too bad.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 28 September, 2010, 07:31:51 pm
I was musing about switching tyres on the rear, as I'm not happy about the grip in the wet of the Pasela.

So was that why I got a puncture halfway home?  Poor little Pasela, feeling unappreciated, deciding to just quit?

Actually, I'm heartily unimpressed with how it's worn. Can't have done more than 800miles, and it is very cut up and surprisingly worn. All traces of tread gone in the centreline, utterly smooth.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 28 September, 2010, 07:32:08 pm
Quote from: hatler on 28 September, 2010, 09:31:39 am
To Lowery Demolition.

Quote
Good morning,

This is just a very quick note to you to commend the driving standard of one of your employees this morning. He was behind the wheel of one of your trucks heading from Hampton towards Sunbury Cross on the A308 at about 08.35 this morning. He was towing a trailer that had a number of large empty wooden cable reels. The registration plate was LL followed by four digits. I hope this is enough for you to be able to identify the driver.

I cycle this route daily and have become hardened to the general levels of inconsiderateness displayed by a small minority of drivers, of cars, vans, buses and trucks, though it has to be said that truck drivers are generally far better on average than the run of the mill motorist.

However, this morning your driver was exemplary. He waited patiently behind me for a safe place to pass and did so in an unflustered manner, leaving me plenty of room as he passed and he didn't move in until he was well past me. I followed him through the traffic and he did exactly the same when caught behind another cyclist a mile up the road. Here he had to contend with a long traffic jam on the other side of the road so had to wait until that was clear. Again, when he overtook the cyclist he did so perfectly. Throughout he didn't gun the engine or stand on the brakes, but controlled his vehicle fluently and smoothly.

Apologies if this sounds over the top but his ability behind the wheel made him stick out. In case you're wondering I am not a serial letter writer. In six years of doing this commute this is only the third time I have written to anyone to commend a driver.

I do hope you are able to identify the driver and if so, please pass my comments on to him.

I drafted this chap for a couple of miles until he hit the traffic queue for Sunbury Cross. As I went past him he poked his head out of his window and with a broad grin called down "38mph !!"

Brilliant.  Well done you, and him  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 28 September, 2010, 07:34:38 pm
20 odd miles of single track canal tow path today on the Giant Yukon MTB.  No Kingfishers today but I did see a pair of Heron and then several singular birds further along.  Very lovely.
On the way home stopped and picked loads and loads of sloes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 28 September, 2010, 10:53:49 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 28 September, 2010, 07:31:51 pm
I was musing about switching tyres on the rear, as I'm not happy about the grip in the wet of the Pasela.

So was that why I got a p*nct*r* halfway home?  Poor little Pasela, feeling unappreciated, deciding to just quit?

Actually, I'm heartily unimpressed with how it's worn. Can't have done more than 800miles, and it is very cut up and surprisingly worn. All traces of tread gone in the centreline, utterly smooth.

I really don't get on with Paselas on the rear. Both times I've tried it they have failed in under 1k miles. On the front they work forever and are pretty puncture resistant, so I've been running GP4Seasons on the rear and Pasela on the front (as they are half the price of a GP4Seasons).

Having had another rear puncture today on the run in to work (two in a week, after none for many, many months) I think I'll swap back over to my M+ winter tyres. It's getting to be that time of year.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 29 September, 2010, 09:41:31 am
Quote from: MattH on 28 September, 2010, 10:53:49 pm
I think I'll swap back over to my M+ winter tyres. It's getting to be that time of year.

I had a puncture this morning on the Rubinos
I think I might get some Durano Plus in 25mm and try them instead
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 29 September, 2010, 10:19:24 am
This morning I discovered that I had left my coat in work yesterday.  Fortunately it is not the only one I have so I set out into the pouring rain in snug jacket.  Todays clothing was shoes, socks, bib knickers, long sleeved base layer only, rain coat, mitts and helmet. The rain made my braking very poor.  The start of the leaf fall is beginning  to add plant oil to the general greasy mixture that is picked up by my rims.  I only just managed to stop in time on a slight downhill when a bus stopped unexpectedly.  Later the rain stopped and braking improved so I live to ride another day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 29 September, 2010, 10:51:28 am
I got called out last night and didn't get back home till 2:00 a.m. My commute this morning therfore started at 8:00 a.m. and involved dealing with rush hour traffic. Not something I am used to doing on a regular basis.

Whoever invented filtering is a chuffing genius ;D I arrived at work after a 10 mile commute in heavy traffic taking no more than 2 minutes longer than my average journey 8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 29 September, 2010, 10:57:21 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 29 September, 2010, 09:41:31 am
I think I might get some Durano Plus in 25mm and try them instead

Good luck with that. (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=36995.msg725143#msg725143)

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 29 September, 2010, 11:16:19 am
Quote from: citoyen on 29 September, 2010, 10:57:21 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 29 September, 2010, 09:41:31 am
I think I might get some Durano Plus in 25mm and try them instead

Good luck with that. (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=36995.msg725143#msg725143)

d.


bike+ say they have them in stock.  I might have to ring them first to double check.

Starbike and chainreaction carry them as a stock item but have them listed as "not at the moment"

Incidentally, chainreaction were saying a few days ago that they had 25mm michelin krylion for £19.99
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moultonaught on 29 September, 2010, 11:42:26 am
As  I knew I'd miss the train I planned to get, thanks to my lovely partner tempting me with the offer of a bacon sarnie en route in a local coffee shop (again!!) and having my lock with me rather than leaving it at the station as I usually do  - thanks to needing it  to secure my bike whilst I enjoyed a mid ride home curry last night -  I thought I'd ride to one station nearer work than the one I normally go to - after all the train only takes 3 minutes to get there.

....  so after c25 minutes of huffing and puffing into a killer headwind and by the most indirect route imaginable I got to the next station along.  ;D

Still, made a nice change and I'll have to see if I can work out a marginally more direct route home tonight...

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rdaviesb on 29 September, 2010, 12:09:19 pm
Got wet. Cared not.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 29 September, 2010, 12:13:35 pm
Quote from: vorsprung on 29 September, 2010, 11:16:19 am
Incidentally, chainreaction were saying a few days ago that they had 25mm michelin krylion for £19.99

700 x 20 in grey for £16
700 x 23 in grey, red and yellow for £19.99
700 x 25 in grey for £19.99

Those are all very good deals for a fantastic tyre.

My front Krylion has just clocked up 6400 miles and only three unexpected deflations.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 29 September, 2010, 01:15:27 pm
It was wet - but rainlegs + waterproof jacket meant it was fun.

Got caught out by having not reconnected the front brake.  Still, that left me with two independent braking systems in the rear brake + leg braking. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 29 September, 2010, 05:36:49 pm
Woah! Stupidly slippy, damp, unpleasant ride in and out today. Span my back wheel while travelling seated and in a straight line at 20mph. I wasn't on a painted line or patch of diesel - the roads round here were just treacherous. And then the people on them! FFS. I was nearly taken out three times in as many minutes on the Walworth Road on the way home, so the roadie that came up to within an inch of my right shoulder at Camberwell can consider himself lucky that I kept my survival instincts in check.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 29 September, 2010, 06:07:39 pm
'Tis very dampish in London.  I don't actually mind rain itself much, it's the effect rain has on traffic / driver behaviour and my ability to take evasive action.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 29 September, 2010, 08:46:14 pm
A bit moist and lights on. Seeing if the new jacket was waterproof was slightly spoiled by me being hot enough to pull the zip down on Elm Grove.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 29 September, 2010, 08:51:55 pm
Tad moist here, too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gaz on 29 September, 2010, 11:28:48 pm
Flat tyre as i was accelerating away from a group of riders at balham today. 26mph when you know your running on your rim in the wet is not fun.
Got pretty wet whilst changing the tube.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 30 September, 2010, 06:00:35 am
Caught in an absolute downpour as I left covent garden last night about 8, saying no- won't go to the pub with everyone else- it looks like it might rain.  Cursed the fact I still haven't got round to fitting mudguards on the SS but realised in a few seconds as the roads turned to rivers they would have made no difference at all in this rain (especially as car after car ploughed through the mini flash floods saturating me from head to foot.)  And, no, Mr Mercedes driver I am not going to pull over into the gutter, which at this point is one massive puddle, just to let you get to the next set of lights before me, no matter how much you beep me. You will have to slow down in 30 seconds and watch me overtake you again anyway. Came closer to being squished than I have in a long time as I headed off  the roundabout at the south end of Waterloo Bridge.  One car, shot out from Stamford street almost horizontal across the cycle lane onto the roundabout and then stopped, and there was not much room for me to take evasive action, especially wth taxis speeding round on the inside lane of the roundabout.  Bemused by the fact that most people, drivers and cyclists seem not to have adjusted their speed to take account of the rather exceptional conditions.  Of course, by the time I got to Peckham Rye the rain was less intense, so if I had stopped for that drink, I would probably have missed the downpour.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 30 September, 2010, 07:10:30 am
Foggy here today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 30 September, 2010, 08:42:02 am
Sunny here today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 30 September, 2010, 08:48:06 am
Quote from: Grub on 30 September, 2010, 07:10:30 am
Foggy here today.
+1 and ankles/shins a fetching shade of pinch when I got here.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 30 September, 2010, 09:02:41 am
I got PWT on the way home last night but didn't care at all- s'only water. The roadworks cause huge delays for the motons though and, as it was raining and the gutters were awash, they were all towards the middle of the road making filtering a bit iffy.

This morning was different- no rain but rolling mist/ fog everywhere. Hands were very cold to start with as my gloves hadn't dried out.

I felt very vulnerable for some reason this morning. The current habit of vehicles approaching junctions at speed had a more noticable impact on my feeling of safety as I rode in :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 30 September, 2010, 09:07:00 am
Still gloriously sunny here you buggers. No wind either.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 30 September, 2010, 09:11:58 am
Wonderful haar today from the Tay. I was riding in through the cemetery so had to stop and grab some pics. This one turned out best, not bad from a crappy camera on a Blackberry.

Don't Blink! (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davidmam/5038033949/#/photos/davidmam/5038033949/lightbox/)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 30 September, 2010, 09:12:37 am
no pic David :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: nicknack on 30 September, 2010, 09:18:07 am
I can see it. Nice pic.

It's ok - I didn't blink.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 30 September, 2010, 09:21:22 am
Fogggggieeee

And another puncture. Rubino Pro Slick: grip +1, puncture resistance -1
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 30 September, 2010, 09:22:19 am
Quote from: jogler on 30 September, 2010, 09:12:37 am
no pic David :(
Sorry, I then edited the message to provide the link.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 30 September, 2010, 10:07:33 am
If it gets much colder, I shall have to consider long-sleeve tops.  As it is, makes for a pleasantly unsweaty fast commute.

Had a close up encounter with convoy mentality, as in "the car in front of me drove into the roundabout, so I must therefore also have priority".  Not trusting drivers, I was prepared to brake; he saw me just as I was braking and stopped too.  To see me mouthing "arsehole" at him, before carrying on.

Palace Green is near the end of my commute and always cheers me up; broad avenue of old trees, stately architecture of the embassies, gloriously peaceful after Kensington Road.  A few days ago, I saw a young, lycra-clad woman pushing a Boris Bike out of one of the embassies, followed by a flunky who waited for her to get on the bike, handed her a bag and waved her off.  So I assume a flunky collected the bike from the park for her, to save her a few minutes walk into the park to get on the bike herself. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 30 September, 2010, 12:05:43 pm
I enjoyed the commute this morning.  Earlier than normal due to a meeting (which got postponed...)

Nice weather, and leaving behind every impatient moron.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 30 September, 2010, 12:13:39 pm
Last night was rather damp cycling through the badlands of Camberwell, Peckham and New Cross.

Am working in Waterloo Library today, so I had to cycle up the Walworth Road. I'll not bother in the future, it was so clogged up with buses, I counted 63 ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 30 September, 2010, 12:53:40 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 30 September, 2010, 12:13:39 pm
Last night was rather damp cycling through the badlands of Camberwell, Peckham and New Cross.

Am working in Waterloo Library today, so I had to cycle up the Walworth Road. I'll not bother in the future, it was so clogged up with buses, I counted 63 ::-)

Ha, yes, and muggins here was stuck on one of them with his banjaxed left leg.  It had taken me an hour to get from Forest Hill to Camberwell and then I decided to walk the rest of the way in to Holborn.  I reckon, even with a gammy leg, I could have walked the whole commute faster than any bus was moving this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 30 September, 2010, 01:14:31 pm
Last night was 'orrible - thanks to shite drivers rather than the shite weather.

This morn, beautiful, but does anyone know what is/was going on down Kennington Park Rd, approaching E&C - it was closed to road traffic and causing massive jams (which of course I breezed by, feeling smug :
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: origamist on 30 September, 2010, 01:46:07 pm
Quote from: Jacomus on 30 September, 2010, 01:14:31 pm
This morn, beautiful, but does anyone know what is/was going on down Kennington Park Rd, approaching E&C - it was closed to road traffic and causing massive jams (which of course I breezed by, feeling smug :

Major collision between an Audi 4x4 and Corsa. Fire crews removed the roof of the Corsa with hydraulic cutting equipment. I don't know what happened to the occupants of either vehicle as the collision must have occured before 7am.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 30 September, 2010, 01:47:31 pm
Amazing moment this morning when I climbed out of the fog in the Culm Valley and could see the sun shining on the top of it

Oh yeah and there was a bizarre RTA near work.  A van was on it's roof but it's hard to see how given how narrow the road was
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 30 September, 2010, 02:24:12 pm
I was very glad that I spent an hour or so yesterday topping up the brake lines on my bike and recharging my light batteries. Not that it made much difference to the drivers around me - at least i could brake with confidence.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 30 September, 2010, 04:04:38 pm
Got caught this morning in the heavier than normal traffic on the Walworth Road (which did seem to consist entirely of buses). It doesn't look like being much better for many people on the way home as the other adjacent major route away from Elephant and Castle has now been closed due to an accident. Old Kent Road closed between Albany Road and St James's Road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: klaas on 30 September, 2010, 07:09:02 pm
Registered my first pothole using great CTC iPhone app this morning (my membership contribution at work!). Next witnessed a double decker bus and a posty van doing a race on Cathedral street Glasgow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 30 September, 2010, 07:27:54 pm
Foggy here too, this morning.  
First time I've ridden in fog since going back to 'proper' glasses as opposed to cycling goggles.
Not a good experience!  Even stopping half way to try and dry them off didn't work!

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 30 September, 2010, 09:12:36 pm
Coming home late I got to use my E3 properly for the first time this year.
Jeez they are ace.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 01 October, 2010, 01:29:27 am
I seem to be having three skin of the teeth moments on each return home at the moment. Tonight was a bus simultaneously overtaking and pulling in to stop approaching the Elephant and Castle, an Addison Lee simultaneously overtaking, braking and pulling left to negotiate some 'traffic calming' in Dulwich and a cat, in Penge. I think the cat was the one closest to apologising.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 01 October, 2010, 08:46:38 am
Fortune favours the insomniacs.  :thumbsup:  (see below)

Woke up way too early, so decided to be at my desk, working, an hour early (in the hope of escaping early).  I must try an early departure again as the traffic lights seem to be much more in my favour!  Thanks to rarely putting my foot down I finally broke through a target I had set for myself: 27kph on a commute.  This morning's result was 27.4kph. :)  Just hope I can keep the number up on the way home as well.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 01 October, 2010, 09:12:00 am
After about an hour into my commute I feel able to comment on the weather.  This morning I decided it was wet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 01 October, 2010, 09:19:13 am
It was wet and windy and nearly cold enough to put gloves on - I very nearly stopped to do so.  And a WVM passed waaaayyyy too close.  

But it was still fab.  Friday commute, first leg done \o/

(and at lunchtime I get to go do another 7 or so miles to the next site.  Then at the end of the day I get to do it in reverse, with added wiggly bits, although today I might go a very different long way home to see what state the sustrans path from dunnington to stamford bridge is in at the moment)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 October, 2010, 09:22:45 am
Started wet for me, but cleared up.

I had a bit of a charmed ride from the top of Clapham, hardly having to stop at all.  However, I think the GPS is over-egging it by suggesting a max speed of 68kph ;D

I did stop to discuss the idea of MSM with another G4S PTS driver.  Aggressive little shit he was.  Never mind, Roadsafe is for his sort, and I shall be contacting his employer directly.

My ride was good.  I'm guessing from his body-  and verbal language that he wasn't having such a good time.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 01 October, 2010, 09:26:50 am
MSM ?

Sorry, I suspect I'm being a bit slow today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 01 October, 2010, 09:29:57 am
I rode in down the Falmer road. Usually someone tries to squeeze past or cut in on a marginal overtake. Today everyone behaved very nicely, even the rain.  :thumbsup:

I think MSM will be mirror signal manoeuvre, although changing the order seems to be the fashion.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 01 October, 2010, 09:31:15 am
Wet and windy here. Got stuck behind another cyclist for a bit. But once I'd got past him it was a great ride in. Turned into work and realised I was grinning like a loon! Of course having a hot shower and dry clothes to look forward to helps!

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 October, 2010, 09:40:21 am
I did mean 'Mirror-Signal-Manoeuvre'.  However, our G4S friend had cut out the unnecessary bit and abbreviated it to 'Manoeuvre'.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 01 October, 2010, 10:30:10 am
Ah. Of course. I am being slow.

It's long been my pet peeve that the best drivers seem to be able to manage is MS, ie Manouevre Signal. Bugger the mirrors.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 01 October, 2010, 11:42:41 am
Windy.  Only trivially wet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 01 October, 2010, 07:50:08 pm
Squelchy!  Got to my second site, totally drenched, and got changed.  Managed to wring a couple of pints of water out of my cycling gear and draped various soggy things around the disabled loo - when I came back at the end of the day there was a gigantic puddle where all the drips had accumulated in the middle of the room.  Put my wet gear back on (apart from my fleece and mitts which were still too wet to contemplate - it wasn't very cold any way) and rode 15 or so miles home in the non-stop pouring rain.  Mostly in the middle of the road, to avoid the 2 to 3 foot wide pothole-concealing puddles at both sides that were threatening to join in the middle of the lanes, or on a carpet of soggy leaves on the cycle track.  Couple of 'oh shit' moments when the cross winds caught me just wrong and caused a bit of a wobble.  Rather beautiful sunset....

Bloomin' lovely ride, it was  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 01 October, 2010, 08:15:18 pm
My cycling jacket,spd boots and winter gloves have an RRP together of £285 and it all failed to night on my 5 mile commute home to night (I only paid £105) I did not get soaked, but my feet were damp to wet, torrso wet to damp and hands damp, so why such expensive kit is not working, is it me or are we ripped of when it's 'cycling kit' If i had done a 100 mile sportive/audax in 6 hours of rain i could understand but 5 miles..................... :demon: any one else have comments/experince with expensive kit that doesn't do what it says on the tin :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 01 October, 2010, 08:24:38 pm
Quote from: Andyf on 01 October, 2010, 08:15:18 pm
any one else have comments/experince with expensive kit that doesn't do what it says on the tin :sick:

My £120 GoreTex jacket isn't what it was when it was new. The membrane rots away after a while. I treat it with Nickwax now and then.
I'll probably buy some cheap breathable waterproof nex. I don't think the Gore Tex was worth the money really. It kept me dry enough when it worked and it did breathe better than a cheap breathable waterproof. But I don't think it was enough to justify the price.
For very heavy rain I use my £30 (they might cost more than that now) poncho cape if I want to stay dry.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 01 October, 2010, 08:31:47 pm
walk of shame, Altura night vision jacket rrp £70 a boil in the bag jkt that the arms leak every time it rains, Diaddorra arctic winter boots(water proof) soaked through rrp £190, B-twin gloves rrp £15 damp.
 :demon: :demon: :demon: :demon: :demon: :demon: :demon: :demon: :demon: :demon: :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 01 October, 2010, 08:35:35 pm
Quote
My £120 GoreTex jacket isn't what it was when it was new

My jkt is only 4 months old and with summer has not been worn that much but fails every time, as it doesn't breath, it keeps the water warm so at least you stay warm......but wet
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 01 October, 2010, 08:41:05 pm
I can't but expensive proper kit because I'm too lardy for most of it, so I only have one item of cycling-specific clothing - one pair of Corrine Dennis 3/4s for fat biffas (that are a bit too big now) which so far have never been too warm or too cold, and are reasonably comfy even when rain-soaked.  I have a cheap and cheerful t-shirt from a hiking shop, which drys out in an hour or two of hanging up somewhere dry-ish and not too cold, and a completely non-waterproof waterproof that fits in a pocket and cost a fiver from Boyes.  I expect to get wet, and take a change of clothes and a towel!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 01 October, 2010, 08:45:32 pm
You could always buy some Nickwax or spray on waterproofing and use that on your clothing.
I may even just do that myself from now on instead of buying expensive waterproofs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 01 October, 2010, 10:46:43 pm
I've got a Cannondale rain jacket that I paid about £100 for about 20 years ago and it's still going strong. The most expensive things are sometimes the cheapest! Kept me dry tonight, as did my Sealskinz socks.  I don't worry about my legs getting wet as they dry in moments once the rain stops.  Got a pretty good drenching tonight but my top half was dry and my feet were like little toasties  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 02 October, 2010, 08:14:34 am
No1Son rang the doorbell when he arrived home last night. Considerately he wanted a towel and the washing basket between the door and the shower. He had mud and water up to the waist, (neither humvees nor shoes any waterproofing) but his top half was dry as a bone. Gore jacket ftw. His cervelo cap was looking a bit bedraggled mind.
I'm quite impressed the torrential downpour didn't sway his enthusiasm for riding. Don't tell him, but I would have collected him. I was in the car...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 02 October, 2010, 11:31:36 am
Quote from: Andyf on 01 October, 2010, 08:15:18 pm
My cycling jacket,spd boots and winter gloves have an RRP together of £285 and it all failed to night on my 5 mile commute home to night (I only paid £105) I did not get soaked, but my feet were damp to wet, torrso wet to damp and hands damp, so why such expensive kit is not working, is it me or are we ripped of when it's 'cycling kit' If i had done a 100 mile sportive/audax in 6 hours of rain i could understand but 5 miles..................... :demon: any one else have comments/experince with expensive kit that doesn't do what it says on the tin :sick:

There's an entire board of it here:

Accessories (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?board=21.0)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arch on 02 October, 2010, 03:57:48 pm
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 01 October, 2010, 07:50:08 pm
Squelchy! 

Yeah, bit wet yesterday, wasn't it?  By lunchtime my feet were floating inside my workboots.  We managed to reschedule a meeting to have it indoors over the very worst rain at lunchtime, but we got well and truly soaked anyway.

I thought about just riding straight home instead of doing the extra to make up to 5 miles, but when I got to the point of choice, I took the long way, figuring I was wet already, I might as well be wet and up to target as wet and fed up at failing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 04 October, 2010, 08:42:11 am
That was almost a perfect ride in.  A bit cool, but worked up enough heat to drop the arm warmers.  Even with all the tube-strike traffic I made good time, even on the extended route.

It shouldn't surprise me, but I can't believe the number of people who either have no idea where they're going or are too impatient to wait in the correct lane.  Like the guy in the right turn lane who wanted to head straight on to cross Tower Bridge.  But he had to get by me first.  I wouldn't budge, so he had to go right and head toward Tower Street.  I hope it took the barsteward ages to turn around and head back to Tower Bridge.  But somehow I doubt he will have learned his lesson.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 October, 2010, 09:07:31 am
Loads of idiots out there on the roads, including one who turned right across me on a roundabout by going round the edge at speed, just so he could get past ::-)

But it was a great ride, improved by the good company I had as I rode with Butterfly for the first half. :-*

Too many RLJers >:(

Motorised and POBs >:(

But there seemed to be a lot of people out on their bikes who were just having a good time trying out cycle commuting :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 04 October, 2010, 10:24:21 am
The sheer randomness going on today was something to behold.
What, I mean WHAT? were people thinking?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wascally Weasel on 04 October, 2010, 10:26:20 am
Seemed relatively quiet today on my commute today, I think a lot of Londonites have taken a long weekend.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 04 October, 2010, 10:33:35 am
I forgot there was a tube strike today, partly because I have a stinking cold which is worse today.  The ride in cheered me up despite all the numpties on the road.  Took a different route in today - good god, the massed RLJers around South Lambeth Walk and Kennington Lane are dangerous!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 04 October, 2010, 10:57:09 am
You'll be pleased to hear that I can now stop whinging about the misery of public transport between Forest Hill and Holborn as I am back on the bike today for the first time since banjaxing my left leg on 9 September.

I took it gently and had a mainly delightful roll up through Honor Oak Park, Nunhead, Peckham, Elephant and Waterloo.  Only mildly irritated by the many twitriders squeezing past on my left at lights and interested to see some fake PCs at the Old Vic flagging down wayward riders.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 October, 2010, 11:00:42 am
Great news.  It's always good to get back on the bike :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 04 October, 2010, 11:02:42 am
Quote from: PaulR on 04 October, 2010, 10:57:09 am
...... as I am back on the bike today .....

Yay!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 04 October, 2010, 11:39:53 am
First day back after two weeks leave.

That was slow... and the ride home will be slower as a second spoke in the rear wheel has bust. I heard it go and could feel the brakes rub as I parked the bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 04 October, 2010, 11:41:22 am
I found that there was rather a lot more traffic today, although not significantly more cyclists (but I only ever see a smattering at the time I travel anyway).

For a couple of miles from Thornton Heath Pond, I was following or being followed by a chap on a rather shiny looking fixed wheel bike.  I didn't see what the frame was, but it was very red, clean and shiny.

Just after going past Streatham Railway Station, the traffic was very stop-start, and there was a Double Decker bus in front of us.  Eventually the bus moved out enough that there was space up the inside (on a dashed marked cycle lane), and the chap on the fixed went, fairly carefully, up the inside here (http://maps.google.co.uk/?ie=UTF8&ll=51.426335,-0.131214&spn=0.001174,0.002411&t=h&z=19&layer=c&cbll=51.426228,-0.131145&panoid=ZGGdt8-JoVUOWjFanyX_eQ&cbp=12,353.85,,0,7.54).  Unfortunately for him, he hadn't realised that the bus had stopped to let a car cross in front of him, and go down Station Approach.

The chap on the fixed almost stopped, but went a bit ass over tit as his front wheel just knocked the car.  It was one of those cases where I'm not entirely sure whose fault it was.  If it had been two lanes of cars, then it would be the responsibility of the car crossing those lanes to make sure it was safe to do so, but with the bus there, it was virtually impossible for either the cyclists or the car driver to see each other until it was too late.  I suspect the onus is probably on the cyclist not to undertake in a situation where he can't see any car doing that, but you don't get many cars going down that way...

It was an odd situation, but I don't think either the car or the cyclist was significantly damaged.  I stopped to make sure that the guy on the bike was OK.  Given the very shiny condition of the bike, I'd half thought that the chap didn't normally cycle around in traffic much, and was using it because of the tube strike, but apparently he did cycle that way fairly often.  Aside from his handlebars being twisted askew (trivially corrected), I don't think any damage was done to him, the car, or the bicycle.

It was a little bit sobering though, because if I hadn't let the other guy go first down the side of the bus, I quite possibly would have done exactly what he did. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 04 October, 2010, 11:45:17 am
Teh Cambridge was unusually busy this morning.  I sped down the cycle lane past a long long queue.  A14 stuffed again, thinks I.

Yep.  Boss man was in late.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 04 October, 2010, 11:53:00 am
Quote from: Andyf on 01 October, 2010, 08:35:35 pm
Quote
My £120 GoreTex jacket isn't what it was when it was new

My jkt is only 4 months old and with summer has not been worn that much but fails every time, as it doesn't breath, it keeps the water warm so at least you stay warm......but wet

I have two coats
Paramo Velez
Montane Stormrider

Both are fully water proof but have minor weak points

IRL after several hours of rain the Velez eventually will let a little water in around the collar.  The hole for a head is a weak point
The Montane has combined under arm vents/pockets which need to be kept open.  Sometimes these fill with water.  I haven't ridden this coat in hours and hours of rain.  The longest trip was on the Mille Cymru day 2 and the rain then was only for an hour or so

Both coats have a slight damp area around the wrist holes. The Paramo didn't when it was new but there are some oil stains on it now :/  The Montane doesn't have a great design of sleeve, I think that sweat on the arms does build up, but it is only noticeable if you are wearing a SS top

You said your feet also got wet and your gloves failed

Most overshoes in very heavy rain will let water in the top.  The hole for a foot is a weak point...
I keep meaning to try water proof trousers.  If the over shoes are inside the trouser bottoms then in theory I should have dry feet.

All the gloves I've tried that are "water proof" do not breathe enough and it is sweat that gives me damp hands.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 04 October, 2010, 01:21:48 pm
Quote from: TimO on 04 October, 2010, 11:41:22 am
For a couple of miles from Thornton Heath Pond, I was following or being followed by a chap on a rather shiny looking fixed wheel bike.  I didn't see what the frame was, but it was very red, clean and shiny......It was a little bit sobering though, because if I hadn't let the other guy go first down the side of the bus, I quite possibly would have done exactly what he did. :-\

You don't mention if he had brakes or not? Personally, in that situation (filtering inside traffic, gap in front of bus) I always take it slow and cover the brakes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 04 October, 2010, 02:33:07 pm
Quote from: Ham on 04 October, 2010, 01:21:48 pm
Quote from: TimO on 04 October, 2010, 11:41:22 am
For a couple of miles from Thornton Heath Pond, I was following or being followed by a chap on a rather shiny looking fixed wheel bike.  I didn't see what the frame was, but it was very red, clean and shiny......It was a little bit sobering though, because if I hadn't let the other guy go first down the side of the bus, I quite possibly would have done exactly what he did. :-\
You don't mention if he had brakes or not? Personally, in that situation (filtering inside traffic, gap in front of bus) I always take it slow and cover the brakes.

He had a front brake, but no rear brake.  He was going fairly slow, but because of the curve of the road, you couldn't really see what was in front of the bus, possibly until it's too late.

I don't know whether he was covering his brakes, I would have been, and indeed was, which is why I didn't come close to hitting him.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 04 October, 2010, 03:16:39 pm
Quote from: TimO on 04 October, 2010, 11:41:22 am
I suspect the onus is probably on the cyclist not to undertake in a situation where he can't see any car doing that, but you don't get many cars going down that way...


The cyclist certainly shouldn't have undertaken like that  Undertaking such a large vehicle is always risky and should only be done, if at all, when you have very clear visibility.  I only undertake buses when I can see what's ahead of them for some distance, there's good room and the conditions are such (e.g. slow moving traffic with no turns) that their movements are predictable.  Certainly wouldn't have done what he did.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 04 October, 2010, 09:13:49 pm
I tried to see what I could get to from a standing start, on the flat, accelerating as hard as I could.

42.3kph.

Was breathing quite heavily.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 October, 2010, 09:19:26 pm
I just pushed myself beyond what was reasonable.  It was fun.  But I'd like to get my breathing back to the right level...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 04 October, 2010, 09:37:38 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 04 October, 2010, 03:16:39 pm
Quote from: TimO on 04 October, 2010, 11:41:22 am
I suspect the onus is probably on the cyclist not to undertake in a situation where he can't see any car doing that, but you don't get many cars going down that way...


The cyclist certainly shouldn't have undertaken like that  Undertaking such a large vehicle is always risky and should only be done, if at all, when you have very clear visibility.  I only undertake buses when I can see what's ahead of them for some distance, there's good room and the conditions are such (e.g. slow moving traffic with no turns) that their movements are predictable.  Certainly wouldn't have done what he did.

I dunno. That's quite a wide cyclepath in the photo. I'd like to think that if I did use it to pass the bus my paranoia would activate as I got to the junction.
The bus shouldn't go into the cycle lane at all because the bus is not a bicycle, so it should be safe. Yes, I know, just because that's how it should be doesn't mean it's the way it will be. But I always try to press my rights as much as I can if they are relevent to me at the time and I have an escape plan if I possibly need one. The cycle lane looks clearly marked to me and I'd blame the car driver for not checking it before turning accross it.
But I wasn't there and don't know all tha facts, so what I think is just theory and opinion, not fact.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 04 October, 2010, 10:05:01 pm
I performed an emergency stop this morning when a young child ran out onto the road directly in front of me.
The road was quiet so it was just me and her.
The road was wet and slippery due to the nearby farm and tractor mess.

My schwalbe durano plus tyres performed brilliantly.  No skidding, no hairy moments, no heart in the mouth.

I looked at the dad stood at the end of the farm track and he said 'Sorry about that' and I replied "That's okay" before I continued on.  He has smiled and nodded in the past as I have ridden by.

I was chuffed with the tyre test though.  Another chalk mark in the positive side of the test.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 04 October, 2010, 10:12:42 pm
It was an interesting commute home as well.  When I got to the end of Cavendish Road (http://maps.google.co.uk/?ie=UTF8&ll=51.441801,-0.143627&spn=0.001117,0.002248&z=18), where I normally go under the railway bridge and across Tooting Bec Common, the entire section of road from that junction and under the bridge was taped off with the police in attendance.  Looking around (on Twitter eventually) it sounds like someone was stabbed in the late afternoon, which resulted (amongst other things) in the Air Ambulance landing on the Common. :o

This did result in my diving off eastward to try and use the alternative route down the East side of the common, which I failed to do very well in the dark, and ended up doing some off-roading before eventually getiing back onto tarmaced road.  Having gone that way once about three years ago, and during the daylight, my memory was pretty poor.  At least I could wack the lights onto full blast and see where I was going, I would have hated to have tried to cycle across an utterly dark common with bog standard little AA powered road legal lights!

That aside, unlike my relatively busy but mostly uneventful (for me) morning commute, there did seem to be an excess of fuckwits around this evening.  I seemed to have many more than the normal number of easily missed, but annoying nonetheless, close "interactions" with the motorised denizens of south London. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 04 October, 2010, 11:56:49 pm
Quote from: TimO on 04 October, 2010, 10:12:42 pm
It was an interesting commute home as well.  When I got to the end of Cavendish Road (http://maps.google.co.uk/?ie=UTF8&ll=51.441801,-0.143627&spn=0.001117,0.002248&z=18), where I normally go under the railway bridge and across Tooting Bec Common, the entire section of road from that junction and under the bridge was taped off with the police in attendance.  Looking around (on Twitter eventually) it sounds like someone was stabbed in the late afternoon, which resulted (amongst other things) in the Air Ambulance landing on the Common. :o

This did result in my diving off eastward to try and use the alternative route down the East side of the common, which I failed to do very well in the dark, and ended up doing some off-roading before eventually getiing back onto tarmaced road.  Having gone that way once about three years ago, and during the daylight, my memory was pretty poor.  At least I could wack the lights onto full blast and see where I was going, I would have hated to have tried to cycle across an utterly dark common with bog standard little AA powered road legal lights!

That aside, unlike my relatively busy but mostly uneventful (for me) morning commute, there did seem to be an excess of fuckwits around this evening.  I seemed to have many more than the normal number of easily missed, but annoying nonetheless, close "interactions" with the motorised denizens of south London. :-\

That was all there when I came through at about 6pm. Pretty depressing news if that was a stabbing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 05 October, 2010, 08:56:43 am
Oops - two less cars....

Head-on RTA as (purportedly) BMW raced pass #47 bus by Ashdown House (http://www.multimap.com/maps/#map=51.5371,-1.5948|17|4&bd=useful_information&loc=GB:51.5371:-1.5948:17|ashdown%20house,%20b4000|Ashdown%20House,%20Vale%20of%20White%20Horse) & then found rules of matter occupying same space & time DO apply, as he totalled the VW...

Everybody out OK (metal can be replaced, people can't), but both well alight enough for a snorkers party by time I had to rampage across fields to get around.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 October, 2010, 08:58:44 am
Tim, I occasionally use that route when I want a quieter (!) route.

This morning, I rode to Tooting with Butterfly again, then zoomed to work.  Twas fun. :)

Iddu, I think we're probably much better of without that car. Glad people weren't too badly hurt.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 05 October, 2010, 09:15:46 am
Incroydeble; ya ride down the centreline, flagging 'em down to try & advise they'll be stuck at least 30 mins, unless they 3-point and go the long way, and they all just smile and wave...

Hope they all had good books to hand ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Access Legal Guy on 05 October, 2010, 09:25:35 am
Quote from: teethgrinder on 04 October, 2010, 09:37:38 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 04 October, 2010, 03:16:39 pm
Quote from: TimO on 04 October, 2010, 11:41:22 am
I suspect the onus is probably on the cyclist not to undertake in a situation where he can't see any car doing that, but you don't get many cars going down that way...


The cyclist certainly shouldn't have undertaken like that  Undertaking such a large vehicle is always risky and should only be done, if at all, when you have very clear visibility.  I only undertake buses when I can see what's ahead of them for some distance, there's good room and the conditions are such (e.g. slow moving traffic with no turns) that their movements are predictable.  Certainly wouldn't have done what he did.

I dunno. That's quite a wide cyclepath in the photo. I'd like to think that if I did use it to pass the bus my paranoia would activate as I got to the junction.
The bus shouldn't go into the cycle lane at all because the bus is not a bicycle, so it should be safe. Yes, I know, just because that's how it should be doesn't mean it's the way it will be. But I always try to press my rights as much as I can if they are relevent to me at the time and I have an escape plan if I possibly need one. The cycle lane looks clearly marked to me and I'd blame the car driver for not checking it before turning accross it.
But I wasn't there and don't know all tha facts, so what I think is just theory and opinion, not fact.


While it may be harsh on the cyclist, in my opinion that fact that he too could not see the turning car would make this a 50/50 in a civil matter. The car should have let the bus pass so that he could see. The cyclists should have filtrered on the outside, so he could see, or wait.  I would rely on the following.


   Leeson v Bevis & Tolchard [1972]

A motorist who flashes his lights, or gives some other signal, to another motorist who is seeking to execute a manoeuvre, is merely saying, "I shall wait here until you have finished"; he is not saying, "It is safe to proceed." A van driver was waiting to emerge from a driveway. A lorry driver stopped and flashed his lights. The van emerged slowly but a motor-cyclist overtook the lorry and collided with the van.
Summary: Held, that the van and motor-cycle were equally to blame. 50/50.


                Fagan-v-Jeffers[2005]
 

The appellant driver (J) appealed against a finding that he had been 50 per cent to blame for injuries sustained by the respondent (F) in a road traffic accident. The accident had occurred on a busy road running north south. J had been driving a car south and attempted to turn right into a side street. In order to do so he had to cross two lanes of oncoming traffic which was at a standstill, but access had been available due to "keep clear" markings painted on the oncoming carriageway. When J attempted to make his turn he struck F, who had been on a motor scooter heading north and riding on the inside of the two lanes of traffic. The judge found that J had been negligent by failing to exercise sufficient caution and that he should have appreciated that, although the two lanes of traffic had been at a standstill, there had been sufficient room for a two wheeled vehicle to pass between the near side vehicle and the curb. The judge further found, however, that F had been equally to blame since there had been a risk that traffic would have passed through the gap created by the keep clear zone. J argued that the judge had set too high a standard of care and that it was F who had been attempting a dangerous manoeuvre by riding on the inside of the traffic.

Held, dismissing the appeal, that where opposing traffic had stopped in order for a motorist to turn right, that motorist had to proceed with utmost care and not proceed to cross the carriageway until he had put himself in a position where he was satisfied that no traffic was likely to cotta up on the inside of the opposing traffic. J had failed to take such care particularly because his view had been blocked by two vans in the opposing carriageway. He should have taken extra care to ensure that a two wheeled vehicle had not been coming up on the inside of the traffic in a situation where it was clear that there was room for such a vehicle. The facts supported the judge's finding of liability and the apportionment that he made.


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 05 October, 2010, 09:30:51 am
Not often the law matches common sense ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 05 October, 2010, 09:38:32 am
The crossroads in the village is being dug up (2nd time this year). To avoid becoming part of a queue Mrs Dan took the car and Miss Dan the Younger and I walked / slow cycled with the older girls as they scooted to school. I then rode in via the town as the main road tends to attract close passes by cars accelerating to 60, and in the wet with the roadworks already having made them late for work just didn't seem like a relaxing proposition.  
Note to self, there is a manhole cover as you cross from Bear Road into Coombe Road. Primary isn't the place to be because you hit it in the middle of your turn. The road was slippery enough that I had unclipped and just had to put a foot down and rode through. *phew smiley*

I agree, 50-50 sounds like common sense.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 05 October, 2010, 09:53:56 am
Thanks for that, ALg, that's interesting reading.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 05 October, 2010, 10:38:29 am
Precisely why I never go automatically if someone flashes me - there have been occasions where I've had people get irate with me for refusing to go when they've flashed me. I won't ever go unless I know it's safe. Other people are unreliable.

I think I prefer the Continental approach - flash to let the other driver know you want them to give way.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 05 October, 2010, 10:45:35 am
"Not only am I going to bully my way ahead of you into this hazard, I'm also going to mess around with the light stalk as I do so in case you haven't anticipated my idiocy and stopped for me."

No, I can't see that that's better.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 05 October, 2010, 11:08:34 am
I never give way to bullies and certainly don't condone aggressive driving. It's not always bullying though - the way they do it on the Continent, it's supposed to be a hazard warning rather than a "get out of my way" gesture. Although you do get idiots on the motorway coming right up on your tail at 120mph and blazing their lights into your rear view mirror.

Anyway, the point is that it's less ambiguous than flashing to let someone out, less likely to lead to incidents.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 05 October, 2010, 11:22:06 am
Quote from: TimO on 04 October, 2010, 10:12:42 pm
... When I got to the end of Cavendish Road (http://maps.google.co.uk/?ie=UTF8&ll=51.441801,-0.143627&spn=0.001117,0.002248&z=18), where I normally go under the railway bridge and across Tooting Bec Common, the entire section of road from that junction and under the bridge was taped off with the police in attendance. ...

It was still closed, as of 45 minutes ago.  Whatever happened there must have been serious, they don't close areas off for almost 24 hours, and have a bucket load of officers hanging around for a minor incident, which doesn't bode well for whoever was taken away by the air ambulance.

I've had a bit of a hunt around on the web for any related news items, but can't find anything.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: peterc on 05 October, 2010, 11:26:39 am
First time I felt intemidated by the presence of another vehicle. A big hairy arsed 4WD tractor, caught me going up the big narrow hill of my comute, the gradiant had us both working hard which made his engine noise kinda scary. He was closer than I would have liked (but no closer than a van or car would have been I think) For a while all I could see was tyre in my mirror.

He waited (he didn't have much choice, it's single track with passing places there) and was through at the next spot giving me all the room he had I think.

Apart from hold up an "I've seen you" hand, slide out and make sure no pass is possible when it's not safe, any ideas?

Rationalise that it's unlikely to kill you is the best I can manage.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 05 October, 2010, 11:38:37 am
Last year I posted some video of being overtaken aggressively whilst riding up Coldhams Lane in Cambridge in primary.

Today I cycled up in a submissive style (in one case: in the door-zone cycle lane and in the other, on the edge of it).  Overtaken twice within inches by cars.

You can't win really.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 05 October, 2010, 12:46:31 pm
Seemed much quieter on the roads this morning. Almost, dare I say it, pleasant.

Last of the fair weather fuckwits seem to be migrating to public transport (leaving just us foul weather fuckwits.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 05 October, 2010, 01:22:32 pm
Monday: go in early, return home late; take extended route both ways and push hard.
Tuesday: Friday legs set in, struggle in on short route.

I didn't realise I was *that* out of shape. :(
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 05 October, 2010, 01:35:00 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 05 October, 2010, 12:46:31 pm
Seemed much quieter on the roads this morning. Almost, dare I say it, pleasant.

Last of the fair weather fuckwits seem to be migrating to public transport (leaving just us foul weather fuckwits.)


I don't know - London seemed to be awash with f-wits on bikes last night, presumably because of the tube strike. I watched two idiots on London Bridge undertake a taxi that had slowed to allow a bus to pull out, nearly collide with said bus and then ride around the front of it.  There was another clown on a folder who didn't seem to understand the common sense principle that if you are very slow and have not really got the hang of changing gear, it's best not to weave your way past other cyclists who arrived at the junction some time before you and are going to be moving off a a considerably faster pace and then stop in the middle of the lane. Plus the "I've got headphones on so I can't see red lights" brigade.

Sorry, did I say I mention that I had a grumpy ride home  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 05 October, 2010, 01:40:28 pm
The posh boys are having their conference in Brum right now. 
Traffic chaos  ::-)

But I was filtering nicely up the Pershore Road this morning as usual, (White lining past a slow moving/stopped/slow moving/stopped line of traffic) I came up behind cop onna motor bike - double red flashing do not overtake lights going.
Surely that doesn't mean me as well? 
Oops.  Apparently it does.

OK So I tucked behind the last bike. 
No, still not good enough, he's waving me to stay away/back.

So I drop back a few yards.  And Mr. bloody Dickhead trys to overtake me.  >:(
So I close up a bit.  Get waved back.  Have to defend space again  >:(
Yo-yo all the way for over a mile.

By this time the m/c cop is heartily sick of me.  I'm heartily sick of the driver behind. 

Will they be buggering off back to Rich-land soon?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 October, 2010, 07:37:17 pm
Interesting commute home.  I was at a seminar at Blackfriars, so I came home via Evans The Cut and the back route past Oval etc.  Needed to refer to the map a lot, but I turned a 13.8kph average leaving The Cut into 20.1 ave by the time I got home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 05 October, 2010, 07:44:49 pm
Right I've checked exactly how to get around the east side of Tooting Bec Common, should the cycle path still be closed by the police.  This guarantees that it'll be open when I get there. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 05 October, 2010, 07:51:04 pm
Failed to clock watch and had the wrong time to be home in my head, so my planned long way round ride home turned into a fast ride up the short and usually avoided route. Got beeped once.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 05 October, 2010, 08:18:35 pm
Quote from: TimO on 05 October, 2010, 07:44:49 pm
Right I've checked exactly how to get around the east side of Tooting Bec Common, should the cycle path still be closed by the police.  This guarantees that it'll be open when I get there. ;D

Let me know if it is open. It was an absolute PITA to reroute this morning. I came home via Balham High St.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 05 October, 2010, 10:48:52 pm
Quote from: Access Legal guy on 05 October, 2010, 09:25:35 am

While it may be harsh on the cyclist, in my opinion that fact that he too could not see the turning car would make this a 50/50 in a civil matter. The car should have let the bus pass so that he could see. The cyclists should have filtrered on the outside, so he could see, or wait.  I would rely on the following.

I would agree with you if the cyclist was undertaking or overtaking the bus. But in this instance, the cyclist was cycling along a clearly marked cycle lane, so I would argue that the cyclist was passing the bus in a different lane, just as could occur on a dual carriageway.
A pedestrian crossing that road at that time would have had priority too and I assume that if they were hit by the turning car, they would not be found negligent either.
Am I still wrong in the eyes of the law?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 05 October, 2010, 11:25:56 pm
Quote from: alexb on 05 October, 2010, 08:18:35 pm
Quote from: TimO on 05 October, 2010, 07:44:49 pm
Right I've checked exactly how to get around the east side of Tooting Bec Common, should the cycle path still be closed by the police.  This guarantees that it'll be open when I get there. ;D
Let me know if it is open. It was an absolute PITA to reroute this morning. I came home via Balham High St.

Yes, as predicted it's all open now, no sign of the police, or whatever happened there.

There's still nothing news-wise to explain exactly what happened. ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 06 October, 2010, 11:30:02 am
This morning it all seemed like it was drying off and so I set off. Then it started spitting, then raining, and then by New Cross it was torrential wind and rain and leaves were slapping me across the face! By Camberwell I was soaked through and large drops of liquid adorned my glasses. Blue skies now... ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wowbagger on 06 October, 2010, 11:33:05 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 06 October, 2010, 11:30:02 am
Blue skies now... ::-)

Please send them this way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Spikey on 06 October, 2010, 11:49:35 am
Yesterday was first commute by bike for a couple of months, thanks to a break between jobs. Was slow due to the weight of books etc. The new commute is a couple of hundred meters shorter. I hope I dont get too soft!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 06 October, 2010, 11:51:55 am
Overtook an annoyingly slow car yet again.  45.9kph to do so.  Spinny spin.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 06 October, 2010, 12:00:59 pm
Blue sky with small, high whispy clouds this morning
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 06 October, 2010, 12:43:23 pm
Quote from: vorsprung on 06 October, 2010, 12:00:59 pm
Blue sky with small, high whispy clouds this morning

Lucky you, heavy leaden skys and persisting it down this morning. I was glad I still had spare socks in the locker at work. Though looking out the window the return ride should be good.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 06 October, 2010, 01:13:04 pm
Really must do something about the so-called mudguards on my Brompton. I just can't for the life of me work out where the spray is getting through. Deeply frustrating.

Didn't mind so much on Sunday when it was in race conditions, but a gentle pootle to the station shouldn't end with a wet arse.  :(

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: thorny on 06 October, 2010, 04:30:08 pm
Have you lost the little rubber flap at the end? Happened to me and it took me ages to work it out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 06 October, 2010, 04:33:48 pm
Quote from: thorny on 06 October, 2010, 04:30:08 pm
Have you lost the little rubber flap at the end?

Yes. Does it really make that much difference? Oh well. Nice to know it's potentially a simple solution. Thanks!

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 06 October, 2010, 08:03:07 pm
Left work in the dry and before sunset. Take the slightly longer seafront route home. Stop the nasty noise from the bottom bracket but spinning along happily rather than trying to be fast. Lovely sunset - clean blues from ever so pale to getting dark, clouds in grey and white with orange and pink highlights. Puzzled by strange chav passenger that tosses a CDR out of the window in front of me. Maybe I'll devise a route home that is a touch over an hour rather than a touch under.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 07 October, 2010, 08:11:16 am
Misty, chilly, half light, deer, little or no wind, fast (by my standards) trip. Nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 07 October, 2010, 09:48:04 am
The sky was blue above but at ground level there was mist
The sheep in the field above Craddock were almost invisible
The sun through the mist made for poor visiblity
It was cold but there were odd patches of warm air
Mist and fog filled every little valley
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 07 October, 2010, 09:49:22 am
Worked from home yesterday and no chance of a virtual commute.

Working from home today but playing 5-a-side near work later. 23km round trip just to play football. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Access Legal Guy on 07 October, 2010, 10:00:17 am

Almost clipped around the ear by a bus driver who had decided to give me the finger(s). Still trying to work out exactly why. Had I have been half a second later passing his cab window I may have been sat on my backside!

Not wanting to delay his workbound passengers, I let it pass. I must be mellowing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 October, 2010, 10:13:11 am
Fast ride this morning.

It just flowed, and it was great. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 07 October, 2010, 12:45:28 pm
Late commute due to over-sleepage.  Almost left-hooked.  I'd been stopped in the ASL, having got to the light just as it changed to red.  I moved off and it was the second car in the queue that tried to go round me then thought better of it (I was halfway across the junction by then).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 07 October, 2010, 05:09:16 pm
I've had a stange niggling handling issue for a few days now. Lifting the bike to move it today I felt the rear wheel move. It turns out that the rear wheel nuts are both loose. The chain tugs have been doing a good job though!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 October, 2010, 10:15:01 pm
Grand ride home, too.  Then a trip out to TGL's first turbo training of the season.  Marvellous.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 07 October, 2010, 10:44:46 pm
Chaintugs FTW!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 07 October, 2010, 11:25:38 pm
Quote
Fast ride this morning.

It just flowed, and it was great. Smiley

Looks like the painfull commute on the 14kg folding Mountain bike may be paying off, took my Spech racer today and hit 27mph and averaged just under 18mph for the 7.3 mile ride from strarford station to the BT tower, it would have been faster were it not for the 17+ traffic lights that killed my 19+ mph average when i got past bow church, just can't lower my self to become a RL'B'J-er  O:-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 October, 2010, 09:39:03 am
Good one.  I had another really good ride this morning.  Actually, it was faster because of RLJing.

Not mine, I hasten to add, but I was passed by a dickhead on a Boardman hopping a kerb at Clapham Common to avoid stopping at a pedestrian crossing.  The pavement had a mother and some kids (one on a bike) who had just crossed the road.  He pissed me off, and I called him a failure.

He jumped a further five red lights, which I stopped at, and he stopped at one more.  But I chased him down repeatedly (and he  wasn't slow :( ).

Twit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 08 October, 2010, 09:42:14 am
Closest I've come to a major crunch.

Coming round a two-lane roundabout. Me in outside lane, dump truck in inside lane alongside me.

Coming off roundabout to two-lane road. Truck pulled across both lanes and cut the corner, smacking the kerb. I hauled on brakes; it was wet and very foggy so they didn't work well. Only just managed to stop before he hit me. Bloody cockwomble.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 08 October, 2010, 09:54:13 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 08 October, 2010, 09:42:14 am
Closest I've come to a major crunch.

Coming round a two-lane roundabout. Me in outside lane, dump truck in inside lane alongside me.

Coming off roundabout to two-lane road. Truck pulled across both lanes and cut the corner, smacking the kerb. I hauled on brakes; it was wet and very foggy so they didn't work well. Only just managed to stop before he hit me. Bloody cockwomble.

'Orrible thing and glad you're safe. Not entirely sure if you were in nearside or offside (sounds like nearside). Without wishing to make it sound anything like your fault I'd just say that
Quote
dump truck in inside lane alongside me.
is at the heart of it and why I always adjust my speed to be either behind or in front. My maxim is "don't be where the accident could happen". He is entirely at fault but no comfort in the worst event.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 08 October, 2010, 09:56:21 am
Private hire car objected to me using the whole left hand lane in primary rather than just the miniature cycle lane when crossing Vauxhall Bridge (towards Vauxhall). Close pass and a generous use of the horn despite the lane next to him being empty. I wasn't going slowly either, 20mph+ the entire time I was on the bridge.

Caught up with him at the lights at Vauxhall and he shrunk in his seat as I enquired as to what the fuck he was thinking. "Aggressive, impatient and ignorant of the highway code; not the best three qualities for a professional driver?"

Can't remember all of the number plate but given that silly season is kind of upon us I might just start using the helmet camera again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 08 October, 2010, 09:59:30 am
Quote from: Ham on 08 October, 2010, 09:54:13 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 08 October, 2010, 09:42:14 am
Closest I've come to a major crunch.

Coming round a two-lane roundabout. Me in outside lane, dump truck in inside lane alongside me.

Coming off roundabout to two-lane road. Truck pulled across both lanes and cut the corner, smacking the kerb. I hauled on brakes; it was wet and very foggy so they didn't work well. Only just managed to stop before he hit me. Bloody cockwomble.

'Orrible thing and glad you're safe. Not entirely sure if you were in nearside or offside (sounds like nearside). Without wishing to make it sound anything like your fault I'd just say that
Quote
dump truck in inside lane alongside me.
is at the heart of it and why I always adjust my speed to be either behind or in front. My maxim is "don't be where the accident could happen". He is entirely at fault but no comfort in the worst event.

I was in the outer lane of the roundabout.

I normally use big vehicles as 'armour' on the premise that they form a block between me and the cars (when there are multiple lanes).  This incident was just a driver cockup; they would have crunched a car if it had been there. Just a smidsy really. But could have been nasty.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 October, 2010, 10:00:07 am
Last night in a queue of traffic in Tooting Broadway, I was pipped by a truck driver behind.  He was blocking the turn into a side road, which was holding up the traffic coming the other way, and I guess he wanted to get out of the way.

Fair enough.  I'd left a bit of a gap in front of me to the next car, so I moved up.

One metre.

The truck was still blocking the way.  And, after we'd moved off, the next time he stopped, he was blocking another turn :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 October, 2010, 10:00:59 am
Glad you're still with us, mrcharly.  I recognise the kind of incident, and it happens pretty frequently round here.  London drivers have no idea what a lane is.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 08 October, 2010, 10:06:29 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 08 October, 2010, 09:59:30 am
Quote from: Ham on 08 October, 2010, 09:54:13 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 08 October, 2010, 09:42:14 am
Closest I've come to a major crunch.

Coming round a two-lane roundabout. Me in outside lane, dump truck in inside lane alongside me.

Coming off roundabout to two-lane road. Truck pulled across both lanes and cut the corner, smacking the kerb. I hauled on brakes; it was wet and very foggy so they didn't work well. Only just managed to stop before he hit me. Bloody cockwomble.

'Orrible thing and glad you're safe. Not entirely sure if you were in nearside or offside (sounds like nearside). Without wishing to make it sound anything like your fault I'd just say that
Quote
dump truck in inside lane alongside me.
is at the heart of it and why I always adjust my speed to be either behind or in front. My maxim is "don't be where the accident could happen". He is entirely at fault but no comfort in the worst event.

I was in the outer lane of the roundabout.

I normally use big vehicles as 'armour' on the premise that they form a block between me and the cars (when there are multiple lanes).  This incident was just a driver cockup; they would have crunched a car if it had been there. Just a smidsy really. But could have been nasty.

Yup, know what you mean (and you were in the nearside) about the armour feeling, but given that a large number of the most dangerous accidents are on the nearside of HGV, I'd say that's one place not to be (as you found out). YMMV.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 08 October, 2010, 10:12:56 am
Probably. I usually hang back a bit so I exit off their rear right corner. Didn't in this case because the lanes are so wide at the junction.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 08 October, 2010, 10:58:55 am
Beautiful golden sky from the low sun this morning.  Thin mist over the Culm Valley

Another few weeks and I will be catching the actual sunrise

Much warmer than yesterday
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 08 October, 2010, 08:48:53 pm
To the female cyclist(Dark Red hair, pony-tail) I was following after Bloomsbury way just after 4pm(west-end London) Do you know that your lycra leggings are totally see-thought around the whole of your bottom, and could see that the very small thong you had on only just covered your......errrhh modesty.
When we pulled away from the lights, the taxi driver in the pink cab looked at me as to say wayhay :thumbsup:
Thank you for making my commute home so much more enjoyable ;D
Just need to get Mrs Andyf on a bike with see thought leggings and a thong a life know!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 11 October, 2010, 09:44:52 am
Quote from: Andyf on 08 October, 2010, 08:48:53 pm
To the female cyclist(Dark Red hair, pony-tail) I was following after Bloomsbury way just after 4pm(west-end London) Do you know that your lycra leggings are totally see-thought around the whole of your bottom, and could see that the very small thong you had on only just covered your......errrhh modesty.
When we pulled away from the lights, the taxi driver in the pink cab looked at me as to say wayhay :thumbsup:
Thank you for making my commute home so much more enjoyable ;D
Just need to get Mrs Andyf on a bike with see thought leggings and a thong a life know!!!!!!!!

I see this a surprising number of times over the week. A hope ! also shines straight through some lycra!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 11 October, 2010, 09:45:28 am
I saw one of these http://www.carradice.co.uk/product_images/20091006162210-large-4-628.jpg
 for the first time today.
Very classy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Fi on 11 October, 2010, 09:50:02 am
Front wheel looks a bit flat, or maybe he's got lead in his carradice
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 11 October, 2010, 10:00:39 am
Back on my fixie for the first time in around 4 weeks.  Missed it :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 October, 2010, 10:04:18 am
Friday legs on a Monday? ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 11 October, 2010, 10:09:11 am
Quote from: clarion on 11 October, 2010, 10:04:18 am
Friday legs on a Monday? ???
Checked the wind direction?  It was a bit blowy today.  I had a very easy run in.  I shall pay for it this evening tho'.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 11 October, 2010, 10:11:34 am
I cleaned my bike on saturday
It was bizarrely shiney this morning
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 11 October, 2010, 10:31:56 am
Sooo glad I had the recumbent for this weekend's commute.  Down in the wind shear and excellent aerodynamics means the wind hardly matters.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 October, 2010, 10:35:47 am
Quote from: TheLurker on 11 October, 2010, 10:09:11 am
Quote from: clarion on 11 October, 2010, 10:04:18 am
Friday legs on a Monday? ???
Checked the wind direction?  It was a bit blowy today.  I had a very easy run in.  I shall pay for it this evening tho'.

Ah.  10mph, and I'm directly into it.  That might be a factor. ;D

Going home should be better.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 11 October, 2010, 10:50:14 am
Quote from: clarion on 11 October, 2010, 10:35:47 am
Ah.  10mph, and I'm directly into it.  That might be a factor. ;D

Going home should be better.

Likewise. I'm hoping it'll be rather easier on the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 11 October, 2010, 11:12:38 am
Inside the office after my commute there was a guy in a wheelchair waiting for a lift. His chair had a whizzy-looking handcycle attachment and I had a quick chat with him about it (how could I resist?).
It has a 9 speed hub gear and clips on and off the chair frame really quickly. He rolls at about 10 mph - "and it's better than the tube", he said. He was fully equipped with lights, helmet, hi-viz etc.

How cool is that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 October, 2010, 11:30:10 am
Handcycling is officially cool.  The teenagers at the Cycle Show were clamouring to try out the one on the test track.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 11 October, 2010, 12:05:14 pm
Quote from: TimO on 11 October, 2010, 10:50:14 am
Quote from: clarion on 11 October, 2010, 10:35:47 am
Ah.  10mph, and I'm directly into it.  That might be a factor. ;D

Going home should be better.

Likewise. I'm hoping it'll be rather easier on the way home.

Weird because I was quite quick across Tooting Bec this morning, felt slow elsewhere, but there was a lot of school mum type traffic to deal with though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 11 October, 2010, 01:13:42 pm
Quote from: little miss mac on 11 October, 2010, 11:12:38 am
Inside the office after my commute there was a guy in a wheelchair waiting for a lift. His chair had a whizzy-looking handcycle attachment and I had a quick chat with him about it (how could I resist?). ...

I've seen a chap on a hand cycle a few times around the Battersea Park Road / Queenstown Road junction (http://maps.google.co.uk/?ie=UTF8&ll=51.476305,-0.148232&spn=0.001012,0.00284&z=19&layer=c&cbll=51.476125,-0.148219&panoid=bgwkY-gvEZqrfPOTzcjjaA&cbp=12,353.27,,0,5), but never close enough to talk to him, or see any details of his cycle.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 11 October, 2010, 08:21:30 pm
Lovely ride home.  Although that could just be because I'm back on the fixie again.  Along the way, passed a girl who had a flashing red front light on her bike; that's going to end badly, or oddly.  Waiting at the lights to cross the Kings Road towards Battersea Bridge, was unimpressed by a teenager on a red Langster failing desperately to trackstand.  When the lights did change, I realised he was on SS, not fixed.  Dork ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 October, 2010, 08:30:00 pm
Zoomy ride home.  I might have made even more of it if I'd had the requisite number of spokes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 11 October, 2010, 08:44:43 pm
A new bottom bracket from the LBS and a much smoother ride home than last week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 11 October, 2010, 08:58:51 pm
Quote
To the female cyclist(Dark Red hair, pony-tail) I was following after Bloomsbury way just after 4pm(west-end London) Do you know that your lycra leggings are totally see-thought around the whole of your bottom, and could see that the very small thong you had on only just covered your......errrhh modesty.
When we pulled away from the lights, the taxi driver in the pink cab looked at me as to say wayhay
Thank you for making my commute home so much more enjoyable
Just need to get Mrs Andyf on a bike with see thought leggings and a thong a life know!!!!!!!!

Yet again 2 more female lycra legging malfunctions on the way home, it's really distracting :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 11 October, 2010, 09:26:06 pm
No see-through lycra spotted today. Just a dead cat.  :(

I'm no animal lover, but I'm dismayed by the amount of dead wildlife I see on the roads. And it's somehow worse when it's someone's pet.

People, just drive a bit slower, will you? Please. Give the poor feckers a chance. FFS.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 11 October, 2010, 09:32:05 pm
Yay! I commuted by bike today, both ways!!

Due to lethargy and a pile of excuses including: late finish, too busy, hedgecuttings, dirty bike, soft tyre, stuff to carry, things to do, and an extra half-hour in bed... I've been taking the car most days for the past three weeks.

Driving sucks, I've decided. It drains your life away.

Cycle commuting is my recreational drug of choice.   ;D

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 11 October, 2010, 09:36:55 pm
Quote
Cycle commuting is my recreational drug of choice.

great quote!!!!!!!!!!! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: welshwheels on 12 October, 2010, 06:57:02 am
christ it 's cold this morning !!  +1on the temp gauge in the cab  rode in from my partners house in llanelli to work in carmarthen 20miles in to work instead of the usuall 11 only problem now it will probably be like an indian summer on the way home . Boil in the bag cyclist again :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: darkpoint on 12 October, 2010, 09:11:51 am
Second time through the current new version of the Elephant and Castle Roundabout that is now traffic lights.
I really hope that is not how they are going to leave it, as that would be really dreadful for cyclists.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 12 October, 2010, 09:29:26 am
Quote from: Gordy on 11 October, 2010, 09:32:05 pm
Driving sucks, I've decided. It drains your life away.

+1
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 October, 2010, 09:42:58 am
There's still no ASL at Walworth Rd.

Yesterday, I went through with the flow of traffic, which was OK.  I have to get across to the right hand lane.  Today, I was stopped by the lights, which was a problem.  I was kinda hoping they would leave the bus lane still free-flowing as it was before, allowing us to speed match before merging.  But it's governed by the lights, too. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 12 October, 2010, 09:45:39 am
Setting off from work last night, coming up to the first set of traffic lights I meet an obstruction. A cyclist. Riding the wrong direction, down between 2 lanes of traffic.  That's 2 lanes going the same way.
He pretended I didn't exist and I had to jink right in between cars or ride straight into him. wtf?

Not a chav on a bso, either. A middle-aged bloke on a decent road bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 12 October, 2010, 09:51:03 am
Nice day for it.  A long-sleeved top is the most concession I'll make to the weather at this point.

Encountered a couple of pedestrians whose reaction to a cyclist on the road is to freeze right in your path and then edge backwards directly away from you, uselessly, despite the fact that there's plenty of time if they'd just move.  The first one actually leapt backwards into my path and then gripped my handlebars like a lifeline.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 12 October, 2010, 11:46:59 am
Two ladies walking through Battersea Park, both with flat tyres.
I didn't have compatible inner tubes.

Please, a spare innner tube and a pump is the bare minimum kit you need for regular commuting.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 12 October, 2010, 11:55:06 am
I've noticed a lot of impatient driving recently.  I'm approaching a roundabout at about 18-19mph, a car behind wants to turn left and they appear on my right just as I'm arriving at the roundabout, and at the last moment they're on the brakes, and already starting to turn left - getting quite close - but realising they'd have to go through me, and stop.  Learn to read the @%$$% road!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 12 October, 2010, 02:50:30 pm
Cycling across Clapham Common, and for the umpteenth time found that the "Keep Clear" area where the lowered kerb allows you on and off the cycle path, had a vehicle parked in it.  An entire coach blocking it is however exceptional even for that space.

(http://jakal.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/small.php?file=WindmillDrive_BlockedCyclePath_Bus_20101012_1.jpg&size=320) (http://jakal.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/WindmillDrive_BlockedCyclePath_Bus_20101012_1.jpg)  (http://jakal.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/small.php?file=WindmillDrive_BlockedCyclePath_Bus_20101012_2.jpg&size=320) (http://jakal.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/WindmillDrive_BlockedCyclePath_Bus_20101012_2.jpg)

The driver saw me taking photographs and came out to claim that he had nowhere else to park in London, and had legally had to have a rest, which I've got some sympathy with, however ultimately it's his companies and his responsibility to make sure that this is dealt with in an appropriate manner, rather than just parking wherever it can be got away with. :-\

I'm fairly sick of people parking in that spot.  Generally it's commercial vans of one sort or another, and a bus was exceptional, but I probably find that I have to get off of my bike to get past several times a week.  Admittedly it's not that onerous, but it pretty much defeats the purpose of the Keep Clear area, and the lowered kerb, if it can't be used because of vehicles parked there.  I don't imagine anyway would try to park across a junction of a road and claim that they had to park there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 October, 2010, 03:06:12 pm
That's ridiculous.

Are you going to chase up the company and Road Safe London?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 12 October, 2010, 03:07:50 pm
Quote from: TimO on 12 October, 2010, 02:50:30 pm
The driver saw me taking photographs and came out to claim that he had nowhere else to park in London, and had legally had to have a rest, which I've got some sympathy with, however ultimately it's his companies and his responsibility to make sure that this is dealt with in an appropriate manner, rather than just parking wherever it can be got away with. :-\

Exactly, I have no sympathy. He's just taking the easy option.

The dropped kerbs along Putney Embankment regularly get cars parked in front of them. I saw someone having their car towed away and was shouting at parking enforcement officers for doing it; "it's not hurting anyone". He stopped shouting when the person in the electric wheelchair came along and thanked the parking people for getting the car out of the way so he could get off the pavement. I wonder if he had a number he could call to get the tow people there quickly.

Mind you, it's less of a problem than the recent particularly high tides:-

Putney's Local Web site (http://www.putneysw15.com/default.asp?section=community&app=forum/ShowMessage.asp?ID=661953)

I've seen a Ferrari floating in the water after it was parked on the slipway on the left in the first photo. The banked slipway opposite Chas Newens is another good place to see floating cars.

(The pier in the first photo is about where the University Boat Race starts.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 12 October, 2010, 03:10:47 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 12 October, 2010, 03:07:50 pm
I wonder if he had a number he could call to get the tow people there quickly.

Most probably, and most probably someone at the council, as it is illegal to park across a dropped kerb, which can lead to your vehicle being towed (this I know from our previous house, where we had a dropped kerb in front of the garage, that people kept parking across so that they could go and pick their kids up from school....)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 12 October, 2010, 04:52:59 pm
Quote from: clarion on 12 October, 2010, 03:06:12 pm
That's ridiculous.

Are you going to chase up the company and Road Safe London?

I'll probably email a the company, and I was thinking of emailing the Local Borough as well, which I think for the majority of the vehicle was Lambeth (it's pretty much on the line between Wandsworth and Lambeth).  I hadn't come across Road Safe London (http://www.met.police.uk/roadsafelondon/) before, but it's probably also worth filling in the form on their site as well, although I'm unsure whether this would come under "Crime linked to commercial vehicles" or more likely "An other road related information".

Quote from: tiermat on 12 October, 2010, 03:10:47 pm
Most probably, and most probably someone at the council, as it is illegal to park across a dropped kerb ...

I don't know if a dropped kerb like this is illegal to park in front of, but in this case I'm pretty sure he was also parked on a Double Yellow line, but I'll check this and what the parking signage says on the way home tonight, before email/form filling in.  As far as I know the "Keep Clear" marking itself has no legal authority, and can be ignored by drivers (although I'll be happy to be corrected on this if it's otherwise).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 October, 2010, 04:58:45 pm
I file most things on RSL as 'nuisance driving'.  More than a nuisance; most of what I report I would say was at least careless.

Nevertheless, this is an offence, and they deserve to get a sharp letter from the bizzies (which is probably the most they ever do).

I think the coach is in Lambeth.  The boundary runs up to the west of the cycle path, and diverts to split Cedars Road in half down the middle.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 12 October, 2010, 05:13:09 pm
Quote from: clarion on 12 October, 2010, 04:58:45 pm
I think the coach is in Lambeth.  The boundary runs up to the west of the cycle path, and diverts to split Cedars Road in half down the middle.

Yes, I think the boundary is actually up the centre of the footpath (which pre-dates the cycle path), and which is to the West of the cycle path.  Certainly more of the coach (and the front) is in Lambeth than Wandsworth.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 12 October, 2010, 06:51:07 pm
Quote from: TimO on 12 October, 2010, 04:52:59 pm
Quote from: clarion on 12 October, 2010, 03:06:12 pm
That's ridiculous.

Are you going to chase up the company and Road Safe London?

I'll probably email a the company, and I was thinking of emailing the Local Borough as well, which I think for the majority of the vehicle was Lambeth (it's pretty much on the line between Wandsworth and Lambeth).  I hadn't come across Road Safe London (http://www.met.police.uk/roadsafelondon/) before, but it's probably also worth filling in the form on their site as well, although I'm unsure whether this would come under "Crime linked to commercial vehicles" or more likely "An other road related information".

Quote from: tiermat on 12 October, 2010, 03:10:47 pm
Most probably, and most probably someone at the council, as it is illegal to park across a dropped kerb ...

I don't know if a dropped kerb like this is illegal to park in front of, but in this case I'm pretty sure he was also parked on a Double Yellow line, but I'll check this and what the parking signage says on the way home tonight, before email/form filling in.  As far as I know the "Keep Clear" marking itself has no legal authority, and can be ignored by drivers (although I'll be happy to be corrected on this if it's otherwise).

Your photo clearly shows the coach parked on double yellow lines.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 12 October, 2010, 07:29:06 pm
I left work at just after 6 instead of 7. Grrrrr!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 12 October, 2010, 08:47:01 pm
I was poorly enough to require the services of the local omnibus companies to get to work today.  I wouldn't have gone to work at all, but I was needed to demonstrate our Sub-Meson Brain/Finite Probability Generator to the customer's Project Engineers.  Straight home afterwards, again by buses.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 12 October, 2010, 09:22:57 pm
My rear tyre started to feel soft about half a mile from the station, and had about five minutes to get my train, so I had to keep riding. By the time I reached the station, it was completely flat. I was balancing on the handlebars to shift my weight as far forward as possible but it's hard to ride like that on fixed. Had I been further away from the station when it happened, I would have stopped for a roadside repair and got a later train, but having made good time up to that point, I was determined not to miss the earlier one.

I made it. Just. Did the necessary repair on the train.

I think these tyres have had it. I just hope the new tyres I have on order come through pretty darn soon.

Gah!

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 12 October, 2010, 10:03:10 pm
My SE to NW London commute seems to run against the grain.  SW to NE, the few times I've been on such a route, has nice long stretches but my route is too bitty and I seldom get above 28mph.  I suppose I could get up earlier and beat the worst of the traffic, but I spend too long at work as it is.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 October, 2010, 10:36:34 pm
I made sparks!

We'd stopped off to help a friend who'd had a p*nct*re.  I didn't stow my pump properly, so, when I was heading home at 32kph, the hose came loose, and was in danger of catching my left foot/crank etc.  As I tried to clear it away, I drifted to the gutter, and my pedal struck twice.  Apparently, it was quite interesting from behind. 

Fortunately, the kerb was only just higher than my pedal's bottom position, so I just got a couple of shoves before I could break free.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 12 October, 2010, 10:52:28 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 12 October, 2010, 10:03:10 pm
My SE to NW London commute seems to run against the grain.  SW to NE, the few times I've been on such a route, has nice long stretches but my route is too bitty and I seldom get above 28mph.  I suppose I could get up earlier and beat the worst of the traffic, but I spend too long at work as it is.

Another cross-Londoner..... we should wave as we pass  ;D

I thought I was one of a very small minority. Actually, we probably are.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 12 October, 2010, 11:20:40 pm
The commute of the beast: 66.6km.  :demon:  :o

The usual amount of selfish, inconsiderate driving, and plenty of wind on the long trip home, but a good stretch of the legs.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 13 October, 2010, 07:41:35 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 12 October, 2010, 10:03:10 pm
I seldom get above 28mph.
Pesky drivers keeping below their speed limit, holding you up, eh?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 13 October, 2010, 09:20:01 am
Quote from: Ham on 12 October, 2010, 10:52:28 pm

Another cross-Londoner..... we should wave as we pass  ;D

I thought I was one of a very small minority. Actually, we probably are.

Does SW to E London count?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 October, 2010, 09:24:02 am
Fast commute this morning, though it didn't feel like it.

There were a couple of strong riders I could match myself against.  Sadly, one of them spoiled it by jumping a red light >:(  but I did catch them back :thumbsup:

I hope that the road bike riders I passed noticed my agricultural-looking geeky propstand, for extra ego-bruising ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 13 October, 2010, 09:37:42 am
Quote from: HTFB on 13 October, 2010, 07:41:35 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 12 October, 2010, 10:03:10 pm
I seldom get above 28mph.
Pesky drivers keeping below their speed limit, holding you up, eh?

SW to central (well, Waterloo) isn't too bad, I get quite a few long stretches between lights; Chelsea Embankment is good, I can usually hit 30mph+ along there (and still get overtaken by motons).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 13 October, 2010, 10:07:32 am
Saw a 6 person "tandem" going the other way in Taunton
I should have chased and got a photo, it was mad
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 October, 2010, 10:12:36 am
There was something in one of the mags about a group doing the end-to-end (I think LEJOG) on a six-seater Santana.  Could have been them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 13 October, 2010, 10:27:55 am
Quote from: PaulF on 13 October, 2010, 09:20:01 am
Quote from: Ham on 12 October, 2010, 10:52:28 pm

Another cross-Londoner..... we should wave as we pass  ;D

I thought I was one of a very small minority. Actually, we probably are.

Does SW to E London count?

I think it depends how far you go on each side. If the middle of your journey is bounded by, say, Aldgate to Shepherds Bush then yes. My midpoint (13 miles) is Notting Hill Gate.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rdaviesb on 13 October, 2010, 10:40:48 am
Quote from: clarion on 13 October, 2010, 10:12:36 am
There was something in one of the mags about a group doing the end-to-end (I think LEJOG) on a six-seater Santana.  Could have been them.

Probably. JD's have lent them a hex.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 13 October, 2010, 11:00:12 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 13 October, 2010, 10:07:32 am
Saw a 6 person "tandem" going the other way in Taunton

"tandem" need not be in quotes.

It refers to the seating arrangement (all in a line behind one another) rather than the number of seats/riders.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 13 October, 2010, 11:13:17 am
Quote from: clarion on 13 October, 2010, 10:12:36 am
There was something in one of the mags about a group doing the end-to-end (I think LEJOG) on a six-seater Santana.  Could have been them.

874-mile charity ride for Derby’s six-seater bike team  &laquo; End to End cycle (JOGLE) (http://www.endtoend-cycle.com/2010/09/874-mile-charity-ride-for-derbys-six-seater-bike-team/)

They were going in the jogle direction, it's got to be them, how many six person tandems are there!!??
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 13 October, 2010, 11:31:27 am
Colleague this morning.
"I saw you this morning.  You overtook my bus"
*Pause*
"Are you allowed to do that?"

 ::-) :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 13 October, 2010, 12:03:01 pm
Quote from: Ham on 13 October, 2010, 10:27:55 am
Quote from: PaulF on 13 October, 2010, 09:20:01 am
Quote from: Ham on 12 October, 2010, 10:52:28 pm

Another cross-Londoner..... we should wave as we pass  ;D

I thought I was one of a very small minority. Actually, we probably are.

Does SW to E London count?

I think it depends how far you go on each side. If the middle of your journey is bounded by, say, Aldgate to Shepherds Bush then yes. My midpoint (13 miles) is Notting Hill Gate.

Then I'm officially an 'Cross Londoner'  :smug:(Wimbledon to Canary Wharf)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 13 October, 2010, 12:26:08 pm
Hardly any wind (a requirement, given my commute heads west, then south east, then north) and what there was was in a favourable direction (the south-easternly section of my commute is double the length of the other two stretches). Did the commute in just under an hour, averaging 28.9kph, which is the best I've done since it got colder.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 13 October, 2010, 01:15:32 pm
Quote from: PaulF on 13 October, 2010, 12:03:01 pm
Quote from: Ham on 13 October, 2010, 10:27:55 am
Quote from: PaulF on 13 October, 2010, 09:20:01 am
Quote from: Ham on 12 October, 2010, 10:52:28 pm

Another cross-Londoner..... we should wave as we pass  ;D

I thought I was one of a very small minority. Actually, we probably are.

Does SW to E London count?

I think it depends how far you go on each side. If the middle of your journey is bounded by, say, Aldgate to Shepherds Bush then yes. My midpoint (13 miles) is Notting Hill Gate.

Then I'm officially an 'Cross Londoner'  :smug:(Wimbledon to Canary Wharf)

Me too - Lewisham to Clapham.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 13 October, 2010, 01:33:33 pm
Oddly today the traffic seemed far worse than normal.  I was quite delayed with traffic blocking the roads, and took a lot longer to get in than normal.  I'm rather at a loss to work out why there seemed to be so much more than normal, I guess I was just unlucky with my timing.

I don't think I count as a cross Londoner, since the centre point of my 12 mile journey is Tooting Bec Common, and my destination has an SW postcode, even though it's north of the river.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 13 October, 2010, 02:38:28 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 13 October, 2010, 01:15:32 pm
Quote from: PaulF on 13 October, 2010, 12:03:01 pm
Quote from: Ham on 13 October, 2010, 10:27:55 am
Quote from: PaulF on 13 October, 2010, 09:20:01 am
Quote from: Ham on 12 October, 2010, 10:52:28 pm

Another cross-Londoner..... we should wave as we pass  ;D

I thought I was one of a very small minority. Actually, we probably are.

Does SW to E London count?

I think it depends how far you go on each side. If the middle of your journey is bounded by, say, Aldgate to Shepherds Bush then yes. My midpoint (13 miles) is Notting Hill Gate.

Then I'm officially an 'Cross Londoner'  :smug:(Wimbledon to Canary Wharf)

Me too - Lewisham to Clapham.

Sorry, no. If you don't go through Central London you have no reason to get very cross. (I suppose going through Vauxhall, if you do, might have that effect)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 13 October, 2010, 02:46:50 pm
Close bus pass on Saturday:


    YouTube
        - YN03DFV overtakes dangerously closely
   (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OmXH01sZilQ)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 October, 2010, 02:50:06 pm
Traffic was very heavy today, no doubt about it.  Lines of traffic jams through Carshalton, and from Mitcham Junction to Tooting Broadway, Balham to Stockwell, and Oval to Fantancastle and beyond.

It must be awful to have to suffer that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 13 October, 2010, 03:03:35 pm
Very heavy through Queenstown Road this morning. I thought I was just a bit earlier than usualu and had picked up on the tail end of something that clears by the time I normally get to that point.

Incidentally, what are they digging up Cedars Road for now? It can't be more than 10 months since they last dug it all up and that was after it was entirely resurfaced as well!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moultonaught on 13 October, 2010, 03:04:13 pm
no commute today as I'm working from home and yesterday's ride was uneventful except for 1) having even more rubbish than usual legs - thanks to the weekend's FNRttS  and 2) an amusing exchange with  one of a group of teenagers as I carried my bike down the two flights of stairs from the cycle path to Aylesbury station:

youth: "cool bike mate - is that one of them folding bikes?"
me: "nope"
youth: "what? It doesn't fold"
me: "yup, that's right it doesn't fold"
youth -  "Oh, ok, in that case I don't like it after all"
me: "charming!" albeit rather muffled as I was chuckling at the exchange...

how fickle are today's youth....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 13 October, 2010, 04:21:58 pm
Traffic horrendous here today. There must have been a dozen cars. Don't know what they were all doing up so early
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 October, 2010, 04:23:39 pm
I think I pass that many cars before I leave our street ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 13 October, 2010, 04:30:29 pm
Quote from: Ham on 13 October, 2010, 02:38:28 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 13 October, 2010, 01:15:32 pm
Quote from: PaulF on 13 October, 2010, 12:03:01 pm
Quote from: Ham on 13 October, 2010, 10:27:55 am
Quote from: PaulF on 13 October, 2010, 09:20:01 am
Quote from: Ham on 12 October, 2010, 10:52:28 pm

Another cross-Londoner..... we should wave as we pass  ;D

I thought I was one of a very small minority. Actually, we probably are.

Does SW to E London count?

I think it depends how far you go on each side. If the middle of your journey is bounded by, say, Aldgate to Shepherds Bush then yes. My midpoint (13 miles) is Notting Hill Gate.

Then I'm officially an 'Cross Londoner'  :smug:(Wimbledon to Canary Wharf)

Me too - Lewisham to Clapham.

Sorry, no. If you don't go through Central London you have no reason to get very cross. (I suppose going through Vauxhall, if you do, might have that effect)

Sorry - actually yes I am an orbital  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 October, 2010, 04:37:10 pm
I think a cross london commutr would have to cross the river, really, then?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 October, 2010, 04:38:22 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 13 October, 2010, 04:30:29 pm
Sorry - actually yes I am an orbital  ;D

If I were at home, I'd post a Youtube link ;D

You're a Sarf Circular commuter, really, aren't you?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 13 October, 2010, 04:39:10 pm
Talking of roadworks, there's something going on at the junction at the top of Crystal Palace Park Rd/Westwood Hill at the moment and the road is down to one lane. Last night, traffic was backed up halfway along Crystal Palace Parade. Nice to be able to whizz past it all on my bike, but there must have been some poorly engines in the queuing cars because after a few seconds of inhaling their fumes, I was close to throwing up. You could taste the burnt diesel in the air. Very unpleasant. Very glad I wasn't stuck inside a car in that.  :sick:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 13 October, 2010, 04:45:20 pm
Quote from: clarion on 13 October, 2010, 04:38:22 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 13 October, 2010, 04:30:29 pm
Sorry - actually yes I am an orbital  ;D

If I were at home, I'd post a Youtube link ;D

You're a Sarf Circular commuter, really, aren't you?

I am, you are right of course, but the A202 is an orbital route.  :-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 13 October, 2010, 05:17:11 pm
Quote from: clarion on 13 October, 2010, 04:37:10 pm
I think a cross london commutr would have to cross the river, really, then?

No, because south of the river is either Kent or Surrey.  ;)

Those who have been on my Thames Path Meaner rides have seen stone marking the border.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 13 October, 2010, 05:20:39 pm
Quote from: clarion on 13 October, 2010, 04:37:10 pm
I think a cross london commutr would have to cross the river, really, then?

I cross it twice but I'm not a cross London commuter.

If I worked a little North-East of where I do the most obvious route would require crossing the river a third time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 13 October, 2010, 05:22:40 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 13 October, 2010, 05:17:11 pm
Quote from: clarion on 13 October, 2010, 04:37:10 pm
I think a cross london commutr would have to cross the river, really, then?

No, because south of the river is either Kent or Surrey.  ;)

Those who have been on my Thames Path Meaner rides have seen stone marking the border.
 

I've seen a load of Surrey Kents stuck in their cars ....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 13 October, 2010, 06:59:24 pm
Quote from: alexb on 13 October, 2010, 03:03:35 pm
Very heavy through Queenstown Road this morning. I thought I was just a bit earlier than usualu and had picked up on the tail end of something that clears by the time I normally get to that point.

Incidentally, what are they digging up Cedars Road for now? It can't be more than 10 months since they last dug it all up and that was after it was entirely resurfaced as well!

Yes, Queenstown Road was also busy for me, and I was travelling later than most commuters (around 9-30).  There seemed to be no obvious explanation.

Cedars Road was predictable, you know the moment they resurface somewhere it'll only be a month or two at most before they dig it up again.  Clearly the crap repairs after that first attempt to really bugger up the cycle path weren't enough, so they're going to make sure that it's even bumpier, by carefully making sure that they don't quite dig up the bit which they did before, so we get two completely different sets of crap surface. >:(

Quote from: clarion on 13 October, 2010, 04:23:39 pm
Quote from: boab on 13 October, 2010, 04:21:58 pm
Traffic horrendous here today. There must have been a dozen cars. Don't know what they were all doing up so early
I think I pass that many cars before I leave our street ;D

Last year, on the day when the heavy snow started, I was cycling home fairly late on the freshly laid snow, and probably saw less than fifty cars on my entire commute.  That was probably the least cars I've ever seen on my commute, including cycling across town at times like 4am in the morning. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 13 October, 2010, 07:04:21 pm
Quote from: boab on 13 October, 2010, 04:21:58 pm
Traffic horrendous here today. There must have been a dozen cars. Don't know what they were all doing up so early

Conversely:-

You can tell that the good weather has come to an end. The number of cycle commuters I see on my commute is down to under 100.

I ripped the arse out of my commute. I stomped along through Parson's Green and tipped 30mph going up the slope of Putney Bridge. Rarrrrr!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 13 October, 2010, 07:51:26 pm
Well, I'm obviously channelling That London today, as after TRAFFIC CHAOS this morning, tonight I got OVERTAKEN BY A CYCLIST for the first time ever on the commute.

Obviously I wasn't going to put up with that, no sir-ee. I chased him down, glided alongside, a little idle chit chat, and then I turned off. Upped my average speed over the whole route by 2kph just by riding alongside him for those 3k. I was bloomin knackered. Really, I'm too old and tired to play at trying to impress young men with my athletic prowess. And when I say young, it's not a figure of speech, he had braces. :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 October, 2010, 09:47:36 pm
Chain's a bit slack :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 13 October, 2010, 09:56:07 pm
Quote from: boab on 13 October, 2010, 07:51:26 pm
And when I say young, it's not a figure of speech, he had braces. :facepalm:

Well, sometimes the lycra shorts go baggy if you wash them at the wrong temperature.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 13 October, 2010, 10:43:11 pm
Another slightly strange commute on the way home, quite a lot of police cars.  It's not unusual to see one or two police vehicles, since quite a bit of my route is fairly major routes, but I saw a dozen or so separate police vehicles, mostly parked up.

On a Friday evening a few more isn't unusual, but that many on a Wednesday is not really par for the course.

The Stupids were out in force as well, not the dangerous variety, but the gormless drive along at fifteen miles an hours, and then suddenly speed up for no apparent reason type (and other varieties of odd and nonsensical behaviour).

There's obviously a special on odd commutes at the moment, Buy One Get One Free. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 14 October, 2010, 08:11:25 am
The weather this week to yesterday morning has been good.  A little windy on Monday, but that dropped.  So did the temperature - 20 at 6 yesterday morning - but not a cloud to be seen.  Yesterday after work it was nigh-on perfect.   This coincided with being able to get away from work in good time and Mrs N not due home till late.  The hills and moors to the north of Swansea were to be my cycling playground. 

First the 10km mile haul up towards Ammanford to Penlle'r Castell on Mynydd y Gwair - Bristol Channel twinkling in the distance to the left over Gower, Black Mountain to the right, and further, vaguely, through the ozone haze, Pen y Fan and the Beacons.  And it was dead still up there for a change: not a breath. Then back along the ridge before the diaganol descent from the Barran Mountain and the drop to Rhyd-y-Fro.  Spurning the direct route home, it was then up the Gwrhyd for more stunning views past the lonely Gwrhyd chapel in perfect isolation and dwindling light. A glance back and I could see the sun as it dropped behind the Barran I had just come off. A 72kph swoop down to Cwmtwrch and an extra little loop to take in the Stafin climb by Ystradgynlais, before the more prosaic valley road and cycle path, and getting back onto my normal commute route for the hill up from Pontardawe.  80km for the day, and 1400m of climbing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 14 October, 2010, 10:02:21 am
Quote from: TimO on 13 October, 2010, 06:59:24 pm
Quote from: alexb on 13 October, 2010, 03:03:35 pm
Very heavy through Queenstown Road this morning. I thought I was just a bit earlier than usualu and had picked up on the tail end of something that clears by the time I normally get to that point.

Incidentally, what are they digging up Cedars Road for now? It can't be more than 10 months since they last dug it all up and that was after it was entirely resurfaced as well!

Yes, Queenstown Road was also busy for me, and I was travelling later than most commuters (around 9-30).  There seemed to be no obvious explanation.

I set off 30 minutes later today, not planned, but Queenstown Road was empty today, why? In fact most of my commute had really light traffic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 14 October, 2010, 10:51:01 am
A bit colder today.

I wore gilet,851 jacket, SS base and longs all the way in to work and I wasn't over heated at all
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 14 October, 2010, 02:39:22 pm
Quote from: alexb on 14 October, 2010, 10:02:21 am
I set off 30 minutes later today, not planned, but Queenstown Road was empty today, why? In fact most of my commute had really light traffic.

It just seemed like normal for me today, not particularly busy or empty, but I was running a bit later today.

The theme for today's commute seemed to be broken down buses.  I saw three buses stopped well away from where they would normally stop, with their hazards on.  One had the engine cover up, so was obviously FUBARed in some fashion, but I assume the other two were also waiting for help, since they weren't near a bus stop, and had no passengers on board.  I can't remember the last time I saw a broken down bus, so three in one day is odd.  It must be the old saw about waiting for a bus, and then three come together... ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 14 October, 2010, 02:41:39 pm
I was slow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 14 October, 2010, 03:47:41 pm
I was slower.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 14 October, 2010, 03:50:53 pm
I was average. I'll be slow as anything tonight after 90 minutes of 5-a-side.

Tube tomorrow as I has exam.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 14 October, 2010, 04:13:32 pm
22.94kph rolling average; for the whole month my rolling average is 25.76 which includes one 120-ish km ride at 27.65kph rolling average.

I've yet to do a non-fixed ride this month.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 14 October, 2010, 08:49:57 pm
I was tired and heading towards the car keys at 6:30 am when I actually decided to cycle in. So I was late and rushed because I couldn't find my bike lock key. Twelve miles took me 70 minutes 'cos I was slow and cold and useless.

But, somehow, due to early-evening--cycling-induced-happiness, I arrived back home warm, speedily and bouncing with energy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 October, 2010, 10:08:53 am
Took the tourer to work.  Managed to keep my average above 20kph, but I felt shit at the end of it.  When it rained, it was starting to feel like an epic ride :(

I got to work, parked my bike, and lay down on the floor for a bit. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 15 October, 2010, 10:11:56 am
It felt really slow today on the bike  :( No matter, I finish work at 2p.m. yipppeeeee!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 15 October, 2010, 10:22:43 am
Coming up to the cyclepath out of copmanthorpe, I can see a woman walking a medium sized dog on the path. "blast", thinks I, "The path's narrow there, I hope she pulls the dog aside when I shout excuse me".

50yards short of woman and dog, dog turns and looks back at me. 20 yards away, it looks again. Then the dog steps off the cyclepath, still looking at me, pulling the owner with it. Sits down until I'm past, then gets up and walks back onto path.

No, it wasn't a seeing-eye dog. But could well have been. Made my day, that did.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SandyV on 15 October, 2010, 10:38:12 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 15 October, 2010, 10:22:43 am
Coming up to the cyclepath out of copmanthorpe, I can see a woman walking a medium sized dog on the path. "blast", thinks I, "The path's narrow there, I hope she pulls the dog aside when I shout excuse me".

50yards short of woman and dog, dog turns and looks back at me. 20 yards away, it looks again. Then the dog steps off the cyclepath, still looking at me, pulling the owner with it. Sits down until I'm past, then gets up and walks back onto path.

No, it wasn't a seeing-eye dog. But could well have been. Made my day, that did.

POTD - really made me smile.   :) :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 15 October, 2010, 10:50:34 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 15 October, 2010, 10:22:43 am
Then the dog steps off the cyclepath, still looking at me, pulling the owner with it. Sits down until I'm past, then gets up and walks back onto path.
Dogs for the hard of thinking. What a good idea.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 15 October, 2010, 11:37:34 am
Why does everybody give their stats in kph?  I happily do metric for distances I can measure with my arms and hands but I think of rides and speeds in miles, when in this country at least.

Nice day for it.  14 mph average and I topped 30 a couple of times - not something I often have a chance to do on my stoppy-starty route.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 15 October, 2010, 11:52:31 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 15 October, 2010, 11:37:34 am
Why does everybody give their stats in kph?  I happily do metric for distances I can measure with my arms and hands but I think of rides and speeds in miles, when in this country at least.

Thou' up to 40 of them (= 1mm).
mm up to about 10 of them.
Inches from 1/2 to 12.
Feet, yards and miles thereafter.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 15 October, 2010, 11:54:58 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 15 October, 2010, 11:37:34 am
Why does everybody give their stats in kph?  I happily do metric for distances I can measure with my arms and hands but I think of rides and speeds in miles, when in this country at least.

Km are used for audax - I believe that's why.

I like using metric on my bike computer, because I notice sooner if my speed is dropping off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: urban_biker on 15 October, 2010, 11:56:37 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 15 October, 2010, 11:54:58 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 15 October, 2010, 11:37:34 am
Why does everybody give their stats in kph?  I happily do metric for distances I can measure with my arms and hands but I think of rides and speeds in miles, when in this country at least.

Km are used for audax - I believe that's why.

I like using metric on my bike computer, because I notice sooner if my speed is dropping off.


Yep - lots of audaxers on here an you just get used to thinking in km. In fact its a right pain to have to think in miles and mph.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 15 October, 2010, 11:57:52 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 15 October, 2010, 11:37:34 am
Why does everybody give their stats in kph?  I happily do metric for distances I can measure with my arms and hands but I think of rides and speeds in miles, when in this country at least.


Because it makes them seem faster :) and it's decreed by THE RULES (http://www.velominati.com/blog/the-rules/) rule 24
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 October, 2010, 12:10:00 pm
Because we are living after the Age of Enlightenment?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 15 October, 2010, 12:13:59 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 15 October, 2010, 11:37:34 am
Why does everybody give their stats in kph?  I happily do metric for distances I can measure with my arms and hands but I think of rides and speeds in miles, when in this country at least.

Nice day for it.  14 mph average and I topped 30 a couple of times - not something I often have a chance to do on my stoppy-starty route.

My bike computers are all measuring in km

If you are reading anything from me mentioning a distance in km or a speed in kph, simply convert to miles by dividing by two and then adding an eighth

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 15 October, 2010, 12:57:59 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 15 October, 2010, 11:37:34 am
Why does everybody give their stats in kph?  I happily do metric for distances I can measure with my arms and hands but I think of rides and speeds in miles, when in this country at least.

Mmmh
Reasons: being forrin, Audax, being used to it!

That said, I had a superb commute home yesterday over the peaks. Setting sun through broken clouds and into darkness. Nice and cool. Againsterly not too hard....
Averaged 40300 furlongs per fortnight for the 36 miles....  :demon:  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 15 October, 2010, 01:15:29 pm
Quote from: clarion on 15 October, 2010, 12:10:00 pm
Because we are living after the Age of Enlightenment?

Aye, but we're living in very unenlightened Britain, where the distances and speed limits don't match the Napoleonic standards.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 October, 2010, 01:23:32 pm
Shame to be so far behind the French, isn't it? ;D

I use metric cause I'm too lazy to convert chains to thou.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 15 October, 2010, 01:26:10 pm
I'm glad to see a lot of marker paint round the potholes on Shepherds Bush Street. Hopefully it'll be less of an obstacle course soon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tatanab on 15 October, 2010, 01:35:38 pm
I'm with itsbruce on the km debate.  I live in an imperial country where signposts indicate miles.  I still drink pints. etc

Even riding in continental Europe I do not change my computer, simply because I'm used to thinking in miles.  I mentally convert distances to miles, but I only spend about 4 or 5 weeks a year on the continent so it's no imposition.

I do find it an imposition, even alienating when people post about a 65km ride at 24.125kmph, what's wrong with 41 miles at 15 mph?   Or even post both?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 October, 2010, 01:37:31 pm
I've measured this country, albeit on a map, but it seemed to be metric to me ;)

btw, I don't drink pints.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 15 October, 2010, 02:11:44 pm
Quote from: tatanab on 15 October, 2010, 01:35:38 pm
I'm with itsbruce on the km debate.  I live in an imperial country where signposts indicate miles.  I still drink pints. etc

Even riding in continental Europe I do not change my computer, simply because I'm used to thinking in miles.  I mentally convert distances to miles, but I only spend about 4 or 5 weeks a year on the continent so it's no imposition.

I do find it an imposition, even alienating when people post about a 65km ride at 24.125kmph, what's wrong with 41 miles at 15 mph?   Or even post both?

Britain, Britain, BRITAIN!  Standing alongside the USA — along with Burma and Liberia — against the rest of the metric world.   :thumbsup:

Alternatively, Britain can just get over its imperial/anti-European bias, stop mixing metric and imperial systems, and join the rest of the civilised world.
 
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 15 October, 2010, 02:21:38 pm
I discovered that the only time my back doesn't hurt is when I'm riding my bike.  Long way home tonight it shall be!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 15 October, 2010, 02:24:52 pm
I rode past work and then back to round up to 8 miles this morning. Metric is for people who can't be bothered to do proper maths.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 October, 2010, 02:30:14 pm
*has ten fingers*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tom_e on 15 October, 2010, 02:36:14 pm
Quote from: Butterfly on 15 October, 2010, 02:24:52 pm
Metric is for people who can't be bothered to do proper maths.

Yup.  It gets the job done and requires less maths.  The word you're looking for is "better"...  :P

Of course, I actually use kms coz the numbers come out bigger that way.  Shameless, me.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 15 October, 2010, 02:36:43 pm
with 12 sections on each hand :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 October, 2010, 02:42:43 pm
So how do I do 5.5, 8, 14, 16, 22 etc? :P

ftr

5.5 yards = 1 rod, pole or perch
8 pints in a gallon or furlongs in a mile
14 pounds in a stone
16 drams in an ounce or ounces in a pound
22 yards in a chain
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 15 October, 2010, 02:46:47 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 15 October, 2010, 02:11:44 pm

Britain, Britain, BRITAIN!  Standing alongside the USA — along with Burma and Liberia — against the rest of the metric world.   :thumbsup:

Alternatively, Britain can just get over its imperial/anti-European bias, stop mixing metric and imperial systems, and join the rest of the civilised world.
 
 

I'd be very happy if it did.  But until the signs and speed limits change, I'll use the matching measurement.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 October, 2010, 02:48:01 pm
And what is the speed limit for a bicycle, precisely? ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 15 October, 2010, 02:49:15 pm
Quote from: clarion on 15 October, 2010, 02:48:01 pm
And what is the speed limit for a bicycle, precisely? ;)

30mph on the roads in most Royal Parks. 20mph on the roads in some Royal Parks (such as Richmond Park). 10mph on the off-road paths in the Royal Parks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 15 October, 2010, 02:50:36 pm
Quote from: clarion on 15 October, 2010, 02:48:01 pm
And what is the speed limit for a bicycle, precisely? ;)

Personally, just over 67kph.

Some cyclists have a higher limit.

 ;D
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 15 October, 2010, 02:54:07 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 15 October, 2010, 02:50:36 pm
Quote from: clarion on 15 October, 2010, 02:48:01 pm
And what is the speed limit for a bicycle, precisely? ;)

Personally, just over 67kph.

Some cyclists have a higher limit.

 ;D
 

Depends on the bike; on gears, about 74kph.  On 71" fixed, 61kph.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 October, 2010, 02:54:27 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 15 October, 2010, 02:49:15 pm
Quote from: clarion on 15 October, 2010, 02:48:01 pm
And what is the speed limit for a bicycle, precisely? ;)

30mph on the roads in most Royal Parks. 20mph on the roads in some Royal Parks (such as Richmond Park). 10mph on the off-road paths in the Royal Parks.

OK, I might recalibrate my computer to silly numbers when I pass through the Royal Parks (not many in South East London). ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 15 October, 2010, 03:00:26 pm
Quote from: clarion on 15 October, 2010, 02:54:27 pm
..... Royal Parks (not many in South East London). ;)

Greenwich. ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 October, 2010, 03:01:44 pm
It's not on my regular route, funnily enough, but I will be sure to adjust my speed when I am there...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 15 October, 2010, 03:57:20 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 15 October, 2010, 02:49:15 pm
30mph on the roads in most Royal Parks. 20mph on the roads in some Royal Parks (such as Richmond Park). 10mph on the off-road paths in the Royal Parks.

and 15mph on the Serpentine Road and other cycle paths in Hyde Park.  I was *extremely* impressed when trying to chase two of my mates down one evening after work, I was doing 26 and only catching them very slowly as they skated backwards down Serp Road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 15 October, 2010, 10:09:07 pm
 :thumbsup: to the chap taking his son (I presume) through cycling down the lewes road at rush hour. Caught me at the lights without too much trouble and doing fine. Cycling - its a normal way of getting about.

I use metric because I'm rather fond of maps and kms are much easier on the maps I have. Audax (for me) came later. It also helps me to practise my mental arithmetic - I'm constantly having to translate for the family - for the older members into miles, for the younger members into multiples of the distance to school.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adam on 16 October, 2010, 07:00:27 am
On yesterday's commute through the countryside, a farmer was ploughing his field.  The air was filled with a rich, deep earthy smell.  Lovely.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Domestique on 16 October, 2010, 07:36:46 am
Fridays commute to me to 5005.52 miles for the year.
Suddenly my target of 6k for the year looks like I might get there. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 17 October, 2010, 10:06:34 am
Early Sunday morning commutes are a dream (once you have got over the nightmare of having to work early on a Sunday morning). Next to no motor vehicle traffic on the road and the Sunday Drivers are still in bed :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: welshwheels on 18 October, 2010, 06:55:14 am
+1 for early morning commutes once you get over the initial shock of getting up at 4:30 every morning . Going home on the other hand is absolutely mental !!! On another matter does anyone else still get the ohhh you cycled in today ! Of work mates 2 years i have been working here  i cycle most days but on the rare occasion i use the car nobody says a word ??
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 18 October, 2010, 08:01:07 am
Quote from: perpetual dan on 15 October, 2010, 10:09:07 pm
Cycling - its a normal way of getting about.
I don't normally read this thread, not having a commute other than taking my son to school and back, but if you don't mind I'm going to use this as my sig for a while.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ed_o_brain on 18 October, 2010, 09:31:35 am
...and relax!

First two thirds of this mornings ride in were pretty darn good. The final third was pretty dire.

I bore witness to someone on a road bike undertaking traffic, and when the gap wasn't large enough using the pavement. I passed him at some point, then later on he undertook me using the gap between curb and left bar end with some actually quite impressive speed. He continued on and shot through a pelican crossing at red. Par for the course and hardly worth mentioning, but my commute seems to coincide regularly with this tw4t and I found his undertake a little unnerving.

Then, on the next stretch, I had to swerve into oncoming traffic forcing a car to steadily brake, so that I could avoid getting knocked off by someone who pulled into the right hand lane (the space I was at that time occupying) without looking or signalling. Good job the spidy senses are working well!

Inevitably I passed the driver within a few meters and shouted something. I can't remember what it said, but a fellow cyclist caught my attention and gave me a thumbs up whilst we were waiting at the next set of lights.

The final leg of my commute is 40 mph dual carriageway, of which I have to make a right turn into the work car park. This normally goes very well, the lights go green and I sprint up to about thirty miles an hour opening up a gap between myself and the car behind, before signally right and negotiating my way across the traffic to reach the filter lane. Not this morning though. Firstly a taxi driver undertakes before I'm out of the left hand lane and whilst I'm still negotiating with the driver flanking me in the right hand lane before I fully commit to swapping lanes. The driver in the right hand lane follows me into the filter, and as I floor it to cross a gap in the oncoming carriageway he does the same, but pulling across me and cutting me up as we head into the car park.


Commuting has been pretty good in general over the last few months, so I'm sorry for the wee ranty moan here.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 18 October, 2010, 09:46:13 am
My attempts to sort out a noisy bottom bracket at the weekend were rather overtaken by other activities (including going to see Bicycle Thieves at the Barbican cinema) and so this morning my usual commuting bike was still upside down in the shed with no bb in it.  No time to fettle that today, as I also had a shirt to iron (taking life one day at a time right now) so I unhitched the Pogliaghi from its place of pride on the wall (in the shed, not the sitting room - unfortunately) and fitted a saddle, pumped the tyres up and had the most delightfully smooth and comfortable ride to work possible.  I'd forgotten what it was like to roll along on a well-maintained road bike; the frame and forks seemed to iron out the usual clatter of London's road surfaces and the traffic seemed lighter than usual.  Instead of being passed by most of the other commuters I found myself rolling past them, whistling happily as I went. 

I'm now sitting at my desk wondering whether someone is going to have a go at nicking it, as we don't have the best cycle security here.  Maybe I should have chosen a different film to watch yesterday...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 October, 2010, 10:16:04 am
Good ride this morning.

It started raining just as I was setting off.

I'd got about 1km before I realised my rear wheel wasn't straight, so I had to sort that out under a railway bridge.

I got cut up by a TNT truck for the sake of getting to the back of a queue of traffic a second sooner, while I rode into the bus lane and along.

I saw a motorcyclist on a big Ducati plough into a pedestrian crossing with people on it and rev his engine aggressively to scare a woman.  Amazing no one was hurt.

I got beeped by another motorcyclist because I was holding him up in the bus lane, and he's more important than me (he then went through a red light before I'd had the chance to discuss the Highway Code with him).

And someone pulled out in front of me as I was coming round Elephant & Castle.

But there was a tailwind, and, once I'd got to Tooting Bec, I got a new load of energy from nowhere, and the ride just flowed.

It was a good ride.  No, it was a great ride. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 18 October, 2010, 11:00:38 am
Nearly clipped by someone driving into a roundabout. Good thing I was covering my brakes while I signalled. I think they heard me bellow, as they then pulled up and waited.

Major car accident on A64 eastbound. Car in field, just a burning mound. Another car smashed up a bit on road. Police and fire in attendance. Eastbound carriageway closed from A1/A64 roundabout onwards at 8am. Still closed now.

Road is open. Driver of vehicle is dead.  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 18 October, 2010, 11:08:52 am
First day on the bike for a week and a half due to the lurg. Nice steady ride in. Traffic a bit heavy with one or two cases of 'that was a bit close' and 'if I'd been driving I wouldn't have overtaken just there', but nothing too serious. Let them get stressy, I'm enjoying myself.

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 18 October, 2010, 11:13:04 am
Had a bit of a heart-in-the-mouth moment this morning when descending the hill into town, doing not far short of 30mph, legs spinning away like billy-o, some twat coming up the hill decides to overtake a motorbike, and comes right across the white lines. The parked cars on my side of the road meant very little space for me to squeeze through...  :o

I think I shouted loud enough for him to get the gist of what I thought of his driving skills.  >:(

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 18 October, 2010, 12:36:04 pm
Donning more layers. Knee-warmers and base layer today. That's along with socks, shorts, s/s jersey, arm warmers and cap.

Forecast for Wednesday looks chilly. Might even stretch to a gilet and a buff. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 18 October, 2010, 12:40:09 pm
I found my winter hat under a pile of clothes.  Means I can stop wearing a helmet to keep my head warm. And warm it was under the winter cap.

The commute itself was fine apart from being sore after the weekend.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 18 October, 2010, 01:19:49 pm
An unusual commute today.  I look at red bike. Oh dear I was supposed to fix the front derailleur on the weekend. On Friday I had noticed that it had appeared to have slipped.  So with allen key in hand I moved it around and up.  It moved the chain back onto the middle ring.  So a quick test ride up and down the street. I switched onto the granny and it dropped as expected.  I clicked it the other way nothing.  Oh dear need to put it on the stand and take a proper look at it.   I clean away the gunk and spot the problem immediately. The derailleur is snapped.  I doubt I can get an 8 speed Racing T these days so I will need to be creative. Red bike is broken.

Pink White and Blue Bike needs a screw to attach cable guides and gears adjusted.

Orange bike (commuting) needs a new wheel.

Step back a day to Sunday. I finished building the wheel for Orange bike.  I approach old wheel with a view to transplanting the disc brake rotor.  I try my allen keys but notice they were not allen bolts but star screws.  I have a couple of star screw drivers in my computer toolkit.  I try them but they are too small. Project halted.

Resuming commute I insert 'rotorless' wheel into Orange bike and head towards Cyclopedia. Very careful like all of us I automatically rely on the front brake which is missing. Only one brake (rear) is illegal and makes me nervous on big hills and in rush our traffic. Come back in a couple of hours they say.  "What time do you need to be in work?" they ask.  "I am already late", I say.

Commute continues on foot then by train then on foot again.  I really must work out the buses. At least I got a couple of wolf whistles.  I find walking around with the little bit of flesh exposed between ankle and knee my cycling knickers are guaranteed to drive young women insane.


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 18 October, 2010, 05:45:28 pm
I have already been into work and back and back again, today.  Got to work to find a message from a neighbour about a possible burglary.  Cycled straight back (false alarm, thankfully).  So that was over 70 minutes on the bike with barely a pause.  Cycled back in at lunchtime.  Getting my exercise in, today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 18 October, 2010, 07:21:22 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 18 October, 2010, 05:45:28 pm
I have already been into work and back and back again, today.  Got to work to find a message from a neighbour about a possible burglary.  Cycled straight back (false alarm, thankfully).  So that was over 70 minutes on the bike with barely a pause.  Cycled back in at lunchtime.  Getting my exercise in, today.

Only once did I cycle in to work to find that I'd left my work keyring1 at home. Work, home, work is 36km.

1. Work keyring contains:-

Bike shed key: can just wait for someone else or get a spare from security
Bike lock key: have cafe lock around the seatpost in case of emergency.
Changing room locker key: the start of the problems, I'll have a clean t-shirt and socks with me, and my towel is hanging up on a hanger on the door, but no trousers/shorts. Lock is pickable with a paper clip though. No way am I sitting in the office in cycling shorts.
Office locker key: laptop contained within, very little chance of picking the lock (although I have managed it once)
Laptop dock key: not required
Desk drawer key: not required
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 18 October, 2010, 08:13:47 pm
Home to work is roughly 8.5 miles or 14.2 km, so I'd done around 42.6 km by lunchtime and nearly 58 now.

The junction by Stockwell Tube is teaching me a feral hatred of RLJers; if I hadn't been delayed by a pedestrian wandering across my exit onto Stockwell Road, I'd have been hit side-on by a fuckwit tearing through the red light at well over 30mph.  Hate.  Hate.  Hate.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 18 October, 2010, 09:10:02 pm
meh, what a crap ride home.

Late leaving work. So dark and raining. Switch on both light - one is dead. Crap, I changed batteries on Friday, it must have been knocked on somehow. Remaining light isn't great.

Get 8 miles out of leeds, something jambs front wheel. Stop, look, can't see what it was. Ride on. Stop at A1 roundabout, realise I don't have any front brakes. Maybe the missing brake block is a clue.

Switch rear blocks onto front. Ride rest of way somewhat gingerly, unable to see road, damp, hit debri at site of the morning's fatality. Thanks, road crew, could you have swept the broken crap off the road completely during the 4 hours the road was closed, rather than just sweeping a pile of it into the hard shoulder? Miraculously don't get puncture.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 18 October, 2010, 09:21:50 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 18 October, 2010, 12:36:04 pm
Donning more layers. Knee-warmers and base layer today. That's along with socks, shorts, s/s jersey, arm warmers and cap.

Forecast for Wednesday looks chilly. Might even stretch to a gilet and a buff. :)

I wore my long tights today for the first time, but more because I forgot to wash the rest of my kit over the weekend...
Long-fingered autumn gloves are still slightly too hot by the end of the journey, and on the way home I felt as though I could probably still do without my bolero (girly armwarmers) but not at the start of the trip. No gilet yet.

I run a bit hot, generally, but hate the cold starts, and the change in season is always a trial of layer-shedding. You can frequently catch me stripping in Battersea Park   :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 18 October, 2010, 09:23:04 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 18 October, 2010, 08:13:47 pm
... The junction by Stockwell Tube is teaching me a feral hatred of RLJers ...

That junction was pretty horrible the last time I used it, and I doubt much has changed.  I've always just gone through it on Clapham Road, and the whole turn off, and then have to turn right to get back on, is a bugger.

It would be nice if CS7 had improved this, but I assume all that involved was painting the existing (horrible and dangerous) route blue.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 18 October, 2010, 10:29:25 pm
Was thanked for a tow up Elm Grove this evening.

Oh and be my guest Cudzo  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 18 October, 2010, 10:51:26 pm
I came fast down St Benedicts to the bottom of Grapes Hill. Two cars queueing at the lights, I thought about using the cycle lane to their left but then the lights changed so I slotted behind the cars and went through the lights. The lead car took an illegal left turn. If I'd chosen the lane I'd have been wiped out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 18 October, 2010, 11:13:57 pm
Quote from: TimO on 18 October, 2010, 09:23:04 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 18 October, 2010, 08:13:47 pm
... The junction by Stockwell Tube is teaching me a feral hatred of RLJers ...

That junction was pretty horrible the last time I used it, and I doubt much has changed.  I've always just gone through it on Clapham Road, and the whole turn off, and then have to turn right to get back on, is a bugger.

It would be nice if CS7 had improved this, but I assume all that involved was painting the existing (horrible and dangerous) route blue.

Crossing that route at a right angle, twice a day (four times, today) is not helping me to love my fellow cyclist.  Worst place on my route for herd behaviour, where one RLJer can draw a whole herd of sheep behind him or her.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 18 October, 2010, 11:17:28 pm
Uncommute of 50km (normally 8.38). Hasn't cleared my head though the quiet, dark lanes did offer a lot of time for introspection. Was a steady pace - 21-odd kph.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 18 October, 2010, 11:36:33 pm
Nearly got taken out by a fuckwit overtaking a bus. Head on to me, I wonder if he could lip read?
Bit nippy this morning, and proper dark at 6.30am. It's coming peeps- I reckon it's time for full finger gloves by the end of the week. And yay! I can stop shaving my legs  ;D


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 October, 2010, 09:32:48 am
It's that time of year.

I stopped to help three separate p*nct*re victims between Clapham and Newington.

Two were OK - a woman in a club jersey (Dulwich Paragon?) and a more mature gentleman who had obviously been exerting himself rather, before his Unscheduled Deflation Incident.  He was amused by it all, though, and openly acknowledged he had jinxed himself by thinking on leaving the house, 'I haven't had a puncture in ages' ;D   

But I did help a couple who were struggling to get a tyre off.  I got it off, checked for flints, started them off with replacing it, and gave them some advice before leaving.  I hope they were all right from there.  It was an awkward tyre (Vittoria Rubino IIRC), and it wasn't keen to get back in the rim.

I was pleased to note that all of them, and the chap last night, carried spare tubes rather than hoping to find a puncture at the side of the road.

I've realised that I might be able to get some interesting figures if I record the makes of tyres I stop to help with over the winter.  Still anecdote, not data, but may provide a useful picture.

Or not.

I'll see.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 19 October, 2010, 10:06:50 am
On my 'heading out of Larndon' commute I must see, oh, about one be-punctured cyclist every six months.

I've seen three in the last two days, all within 100 yards of each other, at the top of the hill on Coombe Lane heading in to Kingston.

I checked with all three and all had all they needed. All road bikes as well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 19 October, 2010, 10:18:35 am
Working from home or out of hotels most of the time at the moment is killing my commuting miles, only marginally made up for by the 40 mile each way commute to the London office on average once a week.

Still, today I extended my 10 metre bedroom-kitchen commute by doing a 30 mile loop over to Reading, pooing-in-a-pot for a nice young lady (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=39236.0) before turning round and coming home. Managed to avoid the worst of the rush hour, but still far too many queuing cars and impatient, inattentive drivers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 19 October, 2010, 10:37:24 am
Forgive me father, for I have sinned. It has been two weeks since my last commute.

"sure, but that's not good"

I have doubted and practised superstitions, for I have indeed worn my helmet continuously. I have profaned and blasphemed at those stupid f*ckers on bikes and in cars. I have been negligent and not attended Critical Mass for 9 months. I have broken the vow I made to take things easy and not chase down the stupid RLJer on BSO who did run into me. I have been envious and lusted over a steel Colnago that attracted my eye, coming close to spilling seed upon the ground. I have watched as masturbators performed their unholy acts in large 4x4s. I have harboured impure thoughts of passing through a red light. I have dressed immodestly in Lycra.

"Feck but you've been a naughty boy. 50 miles into the headwind on a single speed"


Ah yes, it was good to be back on the wheels.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 19 October, 2010, 10:53:52 am
POTD
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 19 October, 2010, 11:39:41 am
I am so tired that I forgot that I rode in today and was sitting here thinking "Shame I took public transport; I always regret it".  It's about once or twice a month that I don't cycle in.  Bleurgh.

My job is killing me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 19 October, 2010, 01:17:34 pm
Unusual commute part 2.  Walk to the bike shop get bike.  As I was closer to the centre of Cardiff I turned on to Western Avenue and considered my options 1. Turn up Llantrisant Road and do longer normal commute.  2. Continue to A48 and get to Bridgend that way. I chose 3.  So I turn towards St Fagins, Peterstone Super Ely, Gwern y Steeple and Welsh St Donats.  I continued to Llansanor and City.  Here I hit the problem with my scheme I do not really know my way around this end of the vale. In the past when I have been here I have always had a good guide.  I realised I did not know precisely where I was heading.  I found my self at Ruthin and knew where I was.  I should of taken an earlier left turn but I arrived at a turning I recognised and headed around St Mary Hill.  As I was descending a small descent the big question of the day. Did my new front wheel go wonky before or after the crash.  I hit the ground and thought s***!.  Second thought was yes it is.  I notice the new wheel was a long way from true. Whether the wheel deformed before or after the crash it should have been built better. I continue down the slippy lane on foot with the thought at least it is not raining. Oh!
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 19 October, 2010, 05:35:28 pm
Bloody hell  ;D That's as wet as I've got on the bike for some time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 19 October, 2010, 08:40:37 pm
As I pulled up to the first junction on my way home (northumberland ave onto the embankment), those excitable motorbike cops with whistles roared up and started stopping traffic. The lucky recipient of a traffic-free ride home was Princess Anne, along with two more motorbikes, and a second car (in case of breakdowns? Royal equivalent of a puncture repair kit?).

She hasn't changed her hair, if anyone was wondering.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 October, 2010, 09:19:17 pm
It were moist this evening, weren't it? ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 19 October, 2010, 09:34:50 pm
Quote from: clarion on 19 October, 2010, 09:19:17 pm
It were moist this evening, weren't it? ;D

Just a tadge my darling. As I was leaving work at 6pm I was thinking 'great, its finally stopped raining'. About 5 minutes into the commute it started tipping it down again. The feet were a tad chilled by the time I got home. Must remember to automatically pack the overshoes and head cap.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 October, 2010, 09:37:30 pm
I was amused by the way in which I started feeling water on my feet after about 4 minutes of riding.  The remaining 68 were quite funny too, even though I got lost in Colliers Wood and found a cycle route with multiple 'No Cycling' signs.  Merton excel themselves again!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 19 October, 2010, 09:38:03 pm
Left at about 6.15pm and got home relatively dry (SE1 to SW15).

:)

Looking forward to the chilly morning tomorrow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 19 October, 2010, 09:42:04 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 19 October, 2010, 09:38:03 pm
Looking forward to the chilly morning tomorrow.

Crikey! Still 4C at 10am according to the BBC weather site. Cashmere socks, here I come.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Julian on 19 October, 2010, 10:03:59 pm
It's Asshat Day again, isn't it?

This morning, I got threatened by some weirdo on a battered MTB for having the temerity to cycle up hill faster than him.  He was seriously cross about it, even though his bike was knackered and heavy and had two flat tyres.  From his appearance and incoherence, I suspect lengthy and committed adoration at the temple of crack cocaine. 

This evening, some little yobbo managed to get up onto a railway bridge where he shouldn't even have been and lobbed something off the top at me.  Dunno what it was (I'm guessing a pint of milk but I didn't fancy going back to find out), but it burst right next to me and made me swerve.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 19 October, 2010, 10:34:49 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 19 October, 2010, 09:38:03 pm
Left at about 6.15pm and got home relatively dry (SE1 to SW15).

It was raining when I left SE1 at about the same time (heading for BR1), but not for long - I'd just caught the end of a shower. But the roads were very wet and assorted sods without mudguards had the gall to keep overtaking me while not being fast enough to pull away from me quickly, so I got a fair bit of other people's spray in my face.  >:(

Quote
Looking forward to the chilly morning tomorrow.

Hmm. I might need to think about some warmer clothing. I was OK once I got going tonight, but still had cold feet. And it wasn't even that cold this evening.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 19 October, 2010, 10:42:49 pm
This evening's plan: leave my desk at 17:00, giving me plenty of time to walk or take a BorisBike to Bicycle Magic in Whitechapel to pick up my commuter, which they repaired following the little head-on I had last month.  The shop closes at 18:00.

Reality: didn't start shutting down computer until 17:30 and it was wet out there.  Ring the shop to warn them I might show up right at 18:00.  On to a BorisBike for a rather damp ride through horrendous traffic and walk into the shop within 15 minutes.  Hurrah!  Sort out the necessary, collect the old tyres (may come in handy as spares), and head off into the rain.

Rain, cold, busy roads, new brake levers not positioned exactly as the old ones were, suspension forks set a bit softer than I like — no problem!  But cycling with two Marathon Pluses with over my shoulder? Eeek!  A bit more faff than I had expected.  Made a quick decision to use back roads as much as possible to get home.

Eventually worked out a system and had a rather enjoyable trip home, with only one attempt on my life, but quite a few motorists giving me plenty of room.

Cycling in long sleeves, but hope to continue with shorts and sandals at least until the end of the month.  Fingers crossed!  :)
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 20 October, 2010, 01:52:45 am
Quite brisk this evening, and hence nice clear skies with the almost full moon.  The thermometer says it's 5°C, but since the weather's been so mild, it feels nippy.  Having said that, whilst I put my fleece on, I probably could have gotten away without it, and I certainly didn't need more than my cycling mits (which I wear all year) on my hands.  Not quite glove & scarf time yet!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: welshwheels on 20 October, 2010, 06:54:10 am
first commute on single speed today i was a bit concerned as there are a few climbs went ok . Got soaked and cold not good .
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 20 October, 2010, 08:37:51 am
Got off the train Half way home at Shenfield, and cycled the 37 miles home, via Onger and the Easters with a pit stop at the Compasses pub for carbohydrate refueling :P.
See thats were Wiggins got it wrong on the TDF, if he had had a couple of pints of Double vision cider(7.4%) he would have rocketed through the mountain stages, like i did through the Essex country roads (allso got some Dunrun 2011 training in, as it was pitch black apart from my lights and head lamp) looked like I had done some Cyclo-cross with the amount of mud sprayed over me and the bike. :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 20 October, 2010, 08:55:51 am
Spotted in very West London (the home of the Impact School of Motoring), a driving school car plastered with stickers, including one offering Crash Courses
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 20 October, 2010, 09:22:51 am
It's not that I regret cycling in this morning in my short-sleeved JollyWear one-piece thingy.  I do regret not supplementing them with, at the very least, some gloves.  Having abandoned my old Specialized gloves because the gel pads actually give me numb fingers, I've neglected to replace them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 20 October, 2010, 09:35:58 am
I was toasty, but then it wasn't as cold as I was expecting.

Seemed to be lots more cyclists than normal though, especially for this cold weather.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 20 October, 2010, 10:00:13 am
A rather chilled ride this morning (must retire the sandals for this year).  Commuting is slower on the hybrid than on the road bike (no surprises) but I hope to bring the hybrid commuting speeds up to road bike speeds.  Just 3-4kph difference, but I think this will take a bit of effort, and time.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 20 October, 2010, 10:05:56 am
Had an off last night.  A bit rainy.  There is lots of mud on the road at the bottom of the hill on the corner in the farm near Nicholasheign.  It's always 'orrible there, I ride it every day.  But the mud is in a thick compressed layer.  It's been dryish all week but now the rain makes it a skid pan.

I slow up a bit for the corner but not enough, feel the wheel going, over correct and...and this is the real mistake...dab the brakes.

I have a big cut in my elbow, bruising all down my left side and a strain at the top of my thigh.  Bruise on my head and the helmet is mashed.

Mrs V wasn't best pleased to see a couple of large rips in my 3 month old £100 eVent coat

Managed to limp to work on the bike this morning.  Glad I did, it's loverly today.  Ow.
Oh yeah and I found the bit of my rear light that had fallen off during the crash, this morning
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 20 October, 2010, 10:13:17 am
Eek vorsprung, that sounds unpleasant!  Hope the various injured body parts sort themselves out.

I had a bit of a crap ride in this morning. I had a bit of a go at a school run motorist who edged me into the kerb in Brockley.  She clearly didn't think it necesary to leave more than two inches when passing me, so I demonstrated how close she was by tapping out a tune on the front passenger window.  I got to the seventh or eighth bar of whatever bit of Beethoven was going through my head (from hearing it being practised relentlessly on our poor piano) before she pulled back and looked all miffed.  

Then the classic left hook attempt on the New Kent Road.  I was a bit cross that the phrase "festering marmoset minge" (thank you to whoever it was on here that introduced me to this terminology) that had been rolling around in the recesses of my mind during last night's pleasant, if slightly damp, commute home was nowhere to be found when it was needed this morning so I'm afraid the poor driver had to make do with a resounding "f*ckwit".  Could do better.

But what really cheered me up was that, on arriving at work, there was a colleague locking up his rather tall bike and wondering whether it was time to switch from riding in his customary flip-flops and using something warmer.  Such as fluffy flip-flops.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 20 October, 2010, 10:17:48 am
I am bikeless after yesterdays fall so no bicycle commute today.  Similar fall to Vorsprung but my new front wheel (less than 1 trip ) could not be pulled back to true last night.  So I have no useable front wheel for that bike.  Red bike needs new front derailleur.  Pink White and Blue bike needs a screw to attach cable guide to frame.  All probably solved by next weekend.

I am stiff all over this morning. Probably needed an hours commute to loosen everyyhing up.

Hope Vorsprung is ok.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 20 October, 2010, 10:23:34 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 20 October, 2010, 10:05:56 am
Had an off last night.  A bit rainy.  There is lots of mud on the road at the bottom of the hill on the corner in the farm near Nicholasheign.  It's always 'orrible there, I ride it every day.  But the mud is in a thick compressed layer.  It's been dryish all week but now the rain makes it a skid pan.

Unlucky. There's a point on my usual route to the station that's like that and I've fallen off there before, so I can sympathise.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 October, 2010, 10:51:52 am
Oh dear, V, that sounds rough.

Hope you heal soon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Access Legal Guy on 20 October, 2010, 10:52:20 am
Had a similar close call this morning on a gathering of wet rotting leaves that have appeared this week on a very tight bend.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 October, 2010, 10:58:14 am
Did you keep it together?

I had a cold ride in this morning.  Particularly chilly around Mitcham Common.  But I was warm enough riding.

Lots & lots of debris on the roads.  I suspect there were a few prangs last night in the rain.

Level crossing at Eastfields seems to be repaired (it was being operated manually yesterday, by a chap talking to the signalbox on the phone).  Same ruddyduckulous levels of traffic, though.  I swear there are more motor vehicles on the road than there were this time last year.  Most places it's OK, cause I can use bus lanes to get past, or overtake, but the last couple of mornings have had queues along narrower roads, with oncoming traffic...

Of course, the boxed residents of Sarf Lahndan were enraged at their self-imposed condition, and were on top form for creative abuses of driving.

Never mind, I got past them all and in to work in good time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 20 October, 2010, 11:04:28 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 20 October, 2010, 10:05:56 am
Had an off last night.  A bit rainy.  There is lots of mud on the road at the bottom of the hill on the corner morning...
Have a large bucket of sympathy. 

I have a two or three sections of that nature to deal with on my commute and have taken to logging them on fillthathole as "debris" in the hope that the council will come and clean the road.  Hasn't worked yet, but you might want to give it a go for your route especially as you can record that the "debris" resulted in an accident.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 20 October, 2010, 11:07:56 am
Quote from: TheLurker on 20 October, 2010, 11:04:28 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 20 October, 2010, 10:05:56 am
Had an off last night.  A bit rainy.  There is lots of mud on the road at the bottom of the hill on the corner morning...
Have a large bucket of sympathy. 

I have a two or three sections of that nature to deal with on my commute and have taken to logging them on fillthathole as "debris" in the hope that the council will come and clean the road.  Hasn't worked yet, but you might want to give it a go for your route especially as you can record that the "debris" resulted in an accident.

It isn't "problem" mud, it's mud from a filthy farm.  Farms put mud on the lanes, it's normal

I don't really see how they could stop mud on the road
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 20 October, 2010, 11:50:02 am
I thinks we've had this debate - on acf. I'm of your thinking. The mud is a pain, but it's part of rural life.

Sorry to hear about the jacket. Is it possible to get repairs or patches, like you can for goretex?
Hope the rest heals fast.

I had to run to train this morning. It's not far from home, but I don't do running due to arthritic hip. All my leg muscles hurt now!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cyclone on 20 October, 2010, 12:05:09 pm
GVS Vorsprung! Had a similar off years ago on a roundabout in New Zealand with the same cause, cue spinning down the road on ones side - Doh :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 20 October, 2010, 12:27:04 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 20 October, 2010, 11:50:02 am
I thinks we've had this debate - on acf. I'm of your thinking. The mud is a pain, but it's part of rural life.

Yes, it's unavoidable, really.

What's inexcusable, though, is things like farmers wilfully driving a plough across a paved cycle path to get from one field to the next, thus ripping dirty great gouges in the surface of the path. I actually saw this happen once.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 20 October, 2010, 12:43:16 pm
My first day on the bike in two weeks  :-[ . A bit cold and the traffic was heavier than normal, mainly due to roadworks with temporary traffic lights.

Must remember that if the neighbours are scraping ice off their cars I should put on my overshoes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 20 October, 2010, 12:48:49 pm
The ride home last night was delayed by an hour due to work. I decided to take an amended route so went through Maidenhead and out to Pinkneys Green before heading for Winter Hill. As I approached Cookham Dean it started to rain and, checking the time, sods law indicated that it was 1 hour after I would have got home had I left on time ::-) Boy oh boy, did it bucket down or what? This caused a slightly unexpected problem however. Descending Winter Hill towards Quarry Wood Lane, I rounded the hairpin in the middle of the descent to be confronted by a gorgeous vivid rainbow. I was so distracted by it that I only just remembered the left hand bend at the bottom of the hill. Wet rims take a bit of braking on don't they ;D Managed to slow enough to stay the right way up through the bend :facepalm:

The ride in this morning was very cold but, having applied enough layers (including my new free C+ buff) it was glorious.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 20 October, 2010, 01:36:28 pm
Quote from: vorsprung on 20 October, 2010, 11:07:56 am
It isn't "problem" mud, it's mud from a filthy farm.  Farms put mud on the lanes, it's normal

I don't really see how they could stop mud on the road
They're supposed to clean it. It's THE LAW. We have a couple of brush attachments for the back of tractors that are used on roads at beet harvest time.
Some farmers cut corners, some are selfish, some do it properly.
(we are all 3 at different times)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 20 October, 2010, 02:25:37 pm
Quote from: boab on 20 October, 2010, 01:36:28 pm
Quote from: vorsprung on 20 October, 2010, 11:07:56 am
It isn't "problem" mud, it's mud from a filthy farm.  Farms put mud on the lanes, it's normal

I don't really see how they could stop mud on the road
They're supposed to clean it. It's THE LAW. We have a couple of brush attachments for the back of tractors that are used on roads at beet harvest time.
Some farmers cut corners, some are selfish, some do it properly.
(we are all 3 at different times)

Don't get me started. This is a pet peeve of mine. I understand that, by living in the countryside, I live in a factory - but as boab says - farmers have responsibilities which (IME round here at least) some/many evade.

Sheesh - a local farmer destroyed almost 1km of road surface hereabouts recently by literally dragging an item of equipment that, presumably, should have had wheels, from farmyard to field.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: welshwheels on 20 October, 2010, 06:53:43 pm
nice ride home on first day on s s  :thumbsup: surprising what gear you can ride up hill on when you only have one ! much better work out than on gears . might be just me but if i have a lower gear i tend to use it  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 October, 2010, 08:39:12 pm
If I'd been able to breathe, that would have been a nice ride home :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 20 October, 2010, 09:04:06 pm
It's going to be another nippy ride home today, it's something like 4°C out there at the moment.
(http://jakal.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/smilies/cold2.gif)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 20 October, 2010, 09:22:26 pm
Usual run in this morning, a bit nippy thobut. Another 10km at lunch. No madam, that arrow means I have priority. You give way to me. So don't shake your head when I hold my position.

And the long way home. 25km, but by heck it was chilly. No hat, no overshoes. Cold fingers and chilly toes. Fantastic moonlit run through the lanes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 21 October, 2010, 06:25:56 am
Much better ride home last night, warmer too.

Around the Minories I picked up someone on a Jamis (http://www.jamisbikes.com/usa/index.html) road bike.  We traded position frequently, due to luck (or lack thereof) in filtering.  When the road cleared up a bit I think I may have upset him ... I was considerably faster than he was.  :)  He eventually disappeared ahead of me somewhere around West Ham, but that was down to some rather liberal interpretations of stop lines and red lights.

According to some sources it is currently 0℃ out there.  I think I may have to resort to wearing my longs this morning.  :-\
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 21 October, 2010, 06:58:38 am
Last night, some bugger flew into my throat, and as I tried to stop it going down the front of my shirt, it stung me on the side of the neck.

Bastard.

Never even saw it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonBuoy on 21 October, 2010, 07:18:46 am
Quote from: tonycollinet on 21 October, 2010, 06:58:38 am
Last night, some bugger flew into my throat, and as I tried to stop it going down the front of my shirt, it stung me on the side of the neck.

Bastard.

Never even saw it.

You should have heard what it had to say about you !
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 21 October, 2010, 07:55:06 am
I'm sure I had some thumbs when I left home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 21 October, 2010, 07:57:00 am
Quote from: Andrij on 21 October, 2010, 06:25:56 am
Much better ride home last night, warmer too.

Around the Minories I picked up someone on a Jamis (http://www.jamisbikes.com/usa/index.html) road bike.  We traded position frequently, due to luck (or lack thereof) in filtering.  When the road cleared up a bit I think I may have upset him ... I was considerably faster than he was.  :)  He eventually disappeared ahead of me somewhere around West Ham, but that was down to some rather liberal interpretations of stop lines and red lights.

According to some sources it is currently 0℃ out there.  I think I may have to resort to wearing my longs this morning.  :-\
 

Hehehee, nice one!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Access Legal Guy on 21 October, 2010, 07:57:54 am
Early finish yesterday, about 17.30. Lovely I think, pop on the full length tights etc, hang up suit by my desk and jump into the lift.

!!!!!!!....... bikes not in the bike rack.......!!!!!!!

So will check with facilities today to see if anything on our cctv, but not optimistic.

a stolen bike is bad enough, but the accessories, light, computer clips, mudguards, pedals have annoyed me just as much, if not more.

Crap journey home on public transport in my tights.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 21 October, 2010, 08:04:59 am
Quote from: Access Legal guy on 21 October, 2010, 07:57:54 am
Early finish yesterday, about 17.30. Lovely I think, pop on the full length tights etc, hang up suit by my desk and jump into the lift.

!!!!!!!....... bikes not in the bike rack.......!!!!!!!

So will check with facilities today to see if anything on our cctv, but not optimistic.

a stolen bike is bad enough, but the accessories, light, computer clips, mudguards, pedals have annoyed me just as much, if not more.

Crap journey home on public transport in my tights.
That's shitty. Hope you get it back.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 October, 2010, 08:24:24 am
Oh bugger.  That's awful.  Best of luck getting it sorted one way or another.

Do you have a second bike?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Access Legal Guy on 21 October, 2010, 08:44:15 am

yes, do have another bike, but it's not really fit for use at the moment (well, not in this weather). That'll be the weekend taken up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 21 October, 2010, 08:53:09 am
It was certainly brisk this morning, around 3℃.  I forgot how much more effort is required when it starts getting this cold.  I picked up the guy on the Jamis (see above) at Limehouse, but instead of filtering he passed the tailback by cycling in the east-bound lane, leaving me well behind.  Maybe we'll have another chance to play tonight.  :demon:  Just before I got to the office I saw a cyclist all lycra'd up, in a LondonDynamo jersey ... on a Brompton.  It may just be me, but 'all the gear' and riding a Brompton or a BorisBike just looks wrong.

Must mention something about the commute yesterday morning.  Londoners aren't surprised by seeing foxes.  But what is surprising is see one splattered across the road ... at the Tower of London! :o  I've never seen a fox in the City, until yesterday.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 21 October, 2010, 09:18:01 am
Quote from: Andrij on 21 October, 2010, 08:53:09 am
It was certainly brisk this morning, around 3℃.  I forgot how much more effort is required when it starts getting this cold.  I picked up the guy on the Jamis (see above) at Limehouse, but instead of filtering he passed the tailback by cycling in the east-bound lane, leaving me well behind.  Maybe we'll have another chance to play tonight.  :demon:  Just before I got to the office I saw a cyclist all lycra'd up, in a LondonDynamo jersey ... on a Brompton.  It may just be me, but 'all the gear' and riding a Brompton or a BorisBike just looks wrong.

Must mention something about the commute yesterday morning.  Londoners aren't surprised by seeing foxes.  But what is surprising is see one splattered across the road ... at the Tower of London! :o  I've never seen a fox in the City, until yesterday.
 

There was a fresh one in Aldgate yesterday. Not so fresh today ;-)

Did you have a reading for 3 deg temperature? Because just up the road it was sub-1, I suspect that might be the effect of the Flats. I did regret not having full gloves for the first part, but by the Mile End Road I was back to ordinary no feeling. Still in shorts.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 21 October, 2010, 09:20:28 am
Quote from: Access Legal guy on 21 October, 2010, 07:57:54 am
Early finish yesterday, about 17.30. Lovely I think, pop on the full length tights etc, hang up suit by my desk and jump into the lift.

!!!!!!!....... bikes not in the bike rack.......!!!!!!!

So will check with facilities today to see if anything on our cctv, but not optimistic.

a stolen bike is bad enough, but the accessories, light, computer clips, mudguards, pedals have annoyed me just as much, if not more.

Crap journey home on public transport in my tights.

That's Baaaad, especially from a private area. Do you have a link to the site that scrapes bike images for sale off gumtree and eBay to keep an eye out for it? This is the thread it was on Good resource for recovering stolen bikes (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=35577.msg667872#msg667872)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 21 October, 2010, 09:26:36 am
Quote from: Ham on 21 October, 2010, 09:18:01 am
Did you have a reading for 3 deg temperature? Because just up the road it was sub-1, I suspect that might be the effect of the Flats. I did regret not having full gloves for the first part, but by the Mile End Road I was back to ordinary no feeling. Still in shorts.

My reading of 3 was off the cycling computer I picked up from Aldi, YMMV.  For the record, I left home around quarter past 7.
 
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 21 October, 2010, 09:39:44 am
Quote from: Ham on 21 October, 2010, 09:20:28 am
Quote from: Access Legal guy on 21 October, 2010, 07:57:54 am
Early finish yesterday, about 17.30. Lovely I think, pop on the full length tights etc, hang up suit by my desk and jump into the lift.

!!!!!!!....... bikes not in the bike rack.......!!!!!!!

So will check with facilities today to see if anything on our cctv, but not optimistic.

a stolen bike is bad enough, but the accessories, light, computer clips, mudguards, pedals have annoyed me just as much, if not more.

Crap journey home on public transport in my tights.

That's Baaaad, especially from a private area. Do you have a link to the site that scrapes bike images for sale off gumtree and eBay to keep an eye out for it? This is the thread it was on Good resource for recovering stolen bikes (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=35577.msg667872#msg667872)


Commiserations ALG!

Bikeshed London (http://bikeshd.co.uk/)

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 21 October, 2010, 09:50:02 am
There were a couple of people this morning using a radar gun on cyclists crossing Clapham Common. I guess we're in for another round of being pulled over and reminded that there's a speed limit for the Common (posted in the basement of the planning office, in a filing cabinet in a toilet cubicle with a sign on the door saying "Beware of the Leopard")...

Hopefully, in the interests of fairness, they'll be pulling motorists over in Windmill Drive for failing to give way to oncoming traffic (i.e. cyclists), but somehow I doubt it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 21 October, 2010, 10:17:34 am
OOoo. The first sub-zero run since last Winter. -1.5C when I set off at 7.45.

But the sun was out so the shorts were on.   :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 21 October, 2010, 10:28:12 am
Yesterday I wore long mtb shorts and my knees were cold. Today I wore longs and my thighs were cold.
Am now shopping for old lady thermal long leg knickers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 21 October, 2010, 10:41:38 am
It was flippin' cold this morning

But beautifully clear and sunny
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 21 October, 2010, 11:18:13 am
Yesterday was my first double longs* day of the season and riding home at midnight I was jolly glad of them :). It was a lovely clear night though.


*pair of longs with bikesters over the top :). Also long merino socks plus waterproof socks, merino l/s vest, long sleeved jersey, soft shell, jacket, yacf buff and merino buff. The first ride with the merino buff pulled up over my nose for a while as well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: redshift on 21 October, 2010, 01:04:28 pm
Quote
Dear sir

at approximately 0850 this morning, I was positioned at the head of a queue of traffic at a red traffic light, at the junction of Heywood Old Road (A6045)and Manchester Old Road (A576).  I was in the right hand lane, waiting for the lights to change so that I could turn right onto the A576 heading towards Manchester.

To my left, a 'PGC Demolition' liveried scaffolding vehicle filtered up the left hand lane, and ignoring the queue, with the right indicator flashing, the driver's clear intent was to turn right from the left hand lane, which is indicated on the road as being for straight on or left turn only.  He rolled forward over the 'STOP' line, obviously planning to set off across my bows when the lights changed.  To do this he would have had to cross through the junction from my left to my right, taking into account the fact that there was a stationary bus in the left lane immediately after the junction.  As a cyclist, this represented a considerable danger to my safety, and I rolled forward, setting off in such a way as to ensure that he was unable to perform this reckless manoeuvre. Unfortunately I cannot give you the registration number of the vehicle, as I was too busy trying to stay out from under its front wheels.

Unfortunate though this is, it is not unusual for a cyclist to be placed in danger by poor driving, and I would not normally write to complain. However, at the M60 junction 19 shortly after those lights, your driver also cut up a car so badly that its driver was forced to use the horn to warn him.

If I had been able to get the registration number, this information would have gone straight to Greater Manchester Police, along with a report about his dangerous driving.  As it is, I can only write to you and suggest that your driver is in need of better training, so that he doesn't represent a danger to other road users.

I look forward to hearing from you.

This morning's episode. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 21 October, 2010, 02:10:17 pm
The lorry might have been too long to have made the turn if it was in the right-hand lane.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: redshift on 21 October, 2010, 02:49:12 pm
It's not a narrow junction:

Google Maps (http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?hl=en&ie=UTF8&ll=53.542019,-2.234023&spn=0.002292,0.004823&t=h&z=18)


It was a scaffolding truck, i.e. a short pickup 3-tonner with a cab and room for a pile of scaff bars, planks and ladders in the back.  It was a nobhead trying to jump the queue, and endangering me in the process.  If the buses and Mr Stobart's artics can turn right from the correct lane, then so can he.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 21 October, 2010, 05:00:19 pm
Looking at that map, you are right, the driver was a knob
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 21 October, 2010, 05:13:13 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 21 October, 2010, 05:00:19 pm
Looking at that map, you are right, the driver was a knob

Yes, he probably thought "ooh, turning right onto a dual carriage way, I can undertake this lot by going up the left, they're probably all turning right anyway"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Torslanda on 21 October, 2010, 05:36:49 pm
Knowing that junction and the reputation of the drivers of that company . . .

Yeah, he was a knob!

Allegedly . . .

You ok, sis?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: redshift on 21 October, 2010, 06:05:44 pm
Oh I'm fine.  I had the measure of him when he pulled up beside me.  I just made sure he wasn't going to get away with it.  Funnily enough, all the drivers in the queue behind me seemed to be of the same mind, which I think is the reason behind the altercation between him and a car driver at the M60 roundabout. 

Ah well, back to the JK show - which is a more distressing way to spend an evening.   ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 21 October, 2010, 07:23:25 pm
Yesterday there were car censuses going on.
In the car in the am I was waved into the lane, drove slowly past people sat and stood around, none of whom indicated they wanted to speak to me, so I carried on.  ???
In the evening on the bike I noticed that the coning off for one was done down the middle of the cycle path. Dual carriage way coming off the lights so not really a problem.
Mrs Dan got waved into two of them and got asked if she'd considered using the bus.

Today I shared a sense of satisfaction with another rider having passed quite a long queue for the broken temporary lights.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ed_o_brain on 22 October, 2010, 09:06:18 am
To the BMW driver who was re-enacting the car chase from Heat between each set of lights:

I bet chicks really dig you don't they? ...until they realise what you're overcompensating for!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 22 October, 2010, 09:30:22 am
Cycled in to work like a mortal cyclist today, unlike my normal Fabian Cancellara kicking arse on a TT event commute fast as i can pedal commute. Wasn't even bothered when i was over taken near Holborn,
Cycling mojo all used up after 105 miles of commuting this week, I am I a commuting superstar or lardy cyclist who needs to get fitter??? ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 October, 2010, 09:54:07 am
Rode in especially early with Butterfly, who is helping a friend move out of our former flat.

The darkness was great, and the traffic, while a bit of a PITA, wasn't too bad.  We got through a couple of traffic jam hotspots relatively easily.

Stopped at Rosie Lee cafe for breakfast, and disconnected a washing machine before doing the other half of my commute.

Not blistering pace - I'm unwell, and I was on the tourer - but respectable time. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bikesdontfloat on 22 October, 2010, 10:06:32 am
Saw a bloke cycling no handed this morning.  I guess if you are going to do that then it may be safer on the pavement than the road.

Of course, if he'd been wearing more than just a t-shirt and jeans he wouldn't have had to keeps his hands in his armpits to stop his fingers dropping off (very light ground frost round these parts this morning so not far above 0c) :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 22 October, 2010, 10:15:41 am
Saw an amazing moonset this morning. The sun was just coming up, and the moon was really big and yellow. It was setting behind a cloud that was coloured by the rising sun. I thought I'd stop at the next gap in the trees to take a photo, but there wasn't one for a while, and but the time there was, the combination of the setting of the moon and the rising ridge meant it had gone.

Also, as I rounded a bend I saw what initially looked like a carrier bag in the road. It was only as I got close that its head turned and I realised it was an owl sat in the middle of the road. It took off as I got close.

All in all, worth leaving the house at 5.30 for.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 October, 2010, 10:20:08 am
Everything else is lovely enough, but I twice read your opening sentence as
Quote from: NOTDrMekon
Saw an amazing marmoset this morning


:-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 22 October, 2010, 10:51:33 am
Doing a tight turn around one corner, my head went straight through a cloud of cheap and nasty perfume that was collecting around a girl waiting to cross.  Really made my eyes water.

One of the many things I like about commuting in London is the feeling it gives me that London is a small place and that my workplace is just a stroll up the road.  As soon as both feet are on the pedals, I'm just at one end of a windy strip of tarmac which doesn't take that long to navigate.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 October, 2010, 12:54:47 pm
Yes, that's exactly it.  I used to walk longish distances through London because I was skint and hated the tubes (and had no idea where the buses went).  So I knew it was possible to get to places.

But living in London with a bike, the place is transformed.  It became a standing joke after the first few times I asked Butterfly how long it would take to get from our old flat to some place I'd never been before.

'About an hour' she'd reply.  And she was pretty much correct every time.

Ok, so we live a bit (10km) further out now, but I'm still of the belief that, if you wanted to get to anywhere in London, you just have to be prepared to sit down long enough.

It makes the Great Wen just about bearable.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 22 October, 2010, 12:59:30 pm
A good ride this morning with a couple of moments to get the heart pumping.

First - road bending right through ~60 degs with a turing on the left that lines up as straight with the exit of the corner. Vehicles exiting the side turning can only turn left into my dirrection of travel. Car approaching give way line no eye contact with driver, Hang on NO ONE IN THE FRONT RIGHT SEAT, LHD and the drivers head is obscured by the B pillar. Change to a very primary possition and now I can see the driver craning her neck to look behind the B Pillar which is way behind me. Glance back to see big lorry on my tail so confident she was going to stop.

Second - Road works mean that the wide central hatchings have been coned off restricting the lane width, pannel van still came past which caught me by suprise. Gesticulate for more space next time which stoped the next vhicle following through.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sigod on 22 October, 2010, 02:45:43 pm
Quote from: alexb on 21 October, 2010, 09:50:02 am
There were a couple of people this morning using a radar gun on cyclists crossing Clapham Common. I guess we're in for another round of being pulled over and reminded that there's a speed limit for the Common (posted in the basement of the planning office, in a filing cabinet in a toilet cubicle with a sign on the door saying "Beware of the Leopard")...

Hopefully, in the interests of fairness, they'll be pulling motorists over in Windmill Drive for failing to give way to oncoming traffic (i.e. cyclists), but somehow I doubt it.
I saw that too. If I see them again, I might pull over, whip out the iPhone and get them to state who they are and what their intentions might be. Intimidation can go both ways. :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tourist Tony on 23 October, 2010, 09:04:42 am
Yesterday, on the return from my big shop at T*sco, I came to the traffic island followed by right filter at Masset's Road. I took primary, but had to brake sharply when the following cabby tried to drive over me anyway.
A rather expensive Audi was following, and I got the full hand signal range, from "tosser" to pinting and mouthing of "wanker".

Except, delightfully, the Audi driver clearly meant the cabby.
Win-win. I'm alive, and another driver understands.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 25 October, 2010, 09:21:10 am
That was COLD! For a southern wuss anyway. And I could have done without the sun being straight into my eyes! But at least it's half term so the roads are quiet and it should be really nice at lunchtime.
S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Seldom Killer on 25 October, 2010, 09:32:04 am
It was even worse for me. I'm a southern wuss living "oop north" as they around here. It doesn't help that my first four miles are down hill. SHEATHMADWWL is once again going to be berated for getting us a home on top of a hill.

The one good thing is that when you're "oop north", it's impossible to go anywhere without going up a hill so the next eight miles to work are quite warming.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 October, 2010, 09:36:53 am
That's by far the coldest morning we've had so far this autumn.  But it was OK.  I rode at a decent pace and kept warm.  Many fewer riders on the road than the last few weeks. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 25 October, 2010, 09:49:10 am
I left the house at 5.30am, and inadvertently did 46km. Damn it was cold. Sealskinz winter gloves appear to be unable to resist windchill, even with the extra merino liners. All I can remember of the ride is the piercing cold and my nose running so much the buff became frosty. Had my first "why am I doing this" moment in a long time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 25 October, 2010, 10:03:33 am
First sub-zero ride of this winter. Slightly spoiled by the puncture.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 25 October, 2010, 11:26:15 am
What is it about cold weather and car drivers with punctures. I saw two drivers with flat tyres this morning. One passed across my path and I was unable to do anything to alert them, thoe other was stopped at lights ahead of me, so I was able to warn her that she had a completely flat front driver's side tyre and two rear tyres that were very low. so three flat tyres and she was completely unaware of it, despite the car sounding like a rolling fart!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 25 October, 2010, 11:44:15 am
To be fair, some modern cars have very good sound insulation so she may not have been able to hear from inside.
On my wife's car, you really can't feel a difference in handling with tyre pressures between 10psi and 40psi, unless you are driving enthusiastically (we had a slow puncture). Totally flat may be a different matter.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 October, 2010, 11:45:57 am
I get disturbed by the number of cars in London driving on spacesaver emergency tyres which themselves are flat.

I've seen cars entering motorways driving on them, and passing at 100mph or thereabouts. 

I've also seen a car with at least two spacesavers on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 25 October, 2010, 12:06:07 pm
Had a nice enough pair of round-trip commutes this weekend, with the exception of a p*&&$£re on arrival on Sunday morning.  Not a big problem, except that it occurred just as I was about to film two students to analyse their technique.  Even then, it was more annoying than serious, thanks to having a spare vehicle stored in the boot of my bike (aka skates).  :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 25 October, 2010, 01:37:51 pm
Cold cold cold. When are my granny knickers coming? There was that unmistakable sparkle on the road and I was reminded of January's offs, but I told myself to HTFU and did the mind over matter fight the fear thing and was only a little bit slower than usual.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Seldom Killer on 25 October, 2010, 01:57:21 pm
A little caution was warranted this morning. I had a bit of a fishtail moment this morning as I hit a patch of heavy frost.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 25 October, 2010, 03:39:03 pm
Heavy frost round my parts too.  The Neath/Talbot authority roads had been gritted for the first time this season, the Swansea ones had not.  I was cautious and had no problems.  I'd forgotten the experience of my hands suffering on the first descent and gradually warming up over the course of the commute as my toes go in the other direction, if you see what I mean.  Anyone else get this?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Seldom Killer on 25 October, 2010, 04:18:42 pm
Yep.

Time to crack out the shoe covers.

I've also heard that a thin layer of bluetack between insoles and cleat plates can help as well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 25 October, 2010, 07:53:42 pm
Powers That Be:
When you change a law so comprehensively and fundamentally, can you please inform ALL road users?
Only 3/4 of the car drivers I saw on Pr*d* P*rk in D*rby were obeying the new rule, that mobile phone use is now MANDATORY.
 :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 25 October, 2010, 09:33:14 pm
Quote from: Nuncio on 25 October, 2010, 03:39:03 pm
Heavy frost round my parts too.

Bit late in the year for nude cycling, surely.

My commute took me across the Ku'damm, past the Zoologischer Garten, through the Kindergarten and the Brandenburger Tor, along Under den Linen...  oh, that's right, I'm not at work and have no business posting in this thread.

Cycling around Berlin is fun. Also, I was given a Dashing Tweeds cap as a present. Result.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Diver300 on 26 October, 2010, 12:11:04 am
Quote from: rower40 on 25 October, 2010, 07:53:42 pm
Powers That Be:
When you change a law so comprehensively and fundamentally, can you please inform ALL road users?
Only 3/4 of the car drivers I saw on Pr*d* P*rk in D*rby were obeying the new rule, that mobile phone use is now MANDATORY.
 :facepalm:

Surely the remaining 1/4 were at least complying in spirit by using a hands free phone so that their thoughts could be elsewhere?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 October, 2010, 09:14:22 am
That was quite a ride!  Just got faster & faster.  Final moving average 24.6kph*, which included a loop round at the end to round up the distance a bit.

I'd thought I might have had a tailwind, but the loop suggested otherwise, and the Met Office say not as well.

Great stuff.




* Yeah, yeah, I know.  There's loads of you ride faster than that every day.  But not me.  And I'm still not well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 26 October, 2010, 09:39:43 am
At the traffic lights by the pedestrian crossing on York Road near Waterloo station.

Other cyclist: "Loads of twats on the road today isn't there."

Me: "What? Like that cab driver by St Thomas's? He only beeped you because you swerved out to overtake the cyclist in front without signaling or looking behind you, you almost swerved into *his* path, he wasn't passing you closely as he was completely in the other lane, I was behind watching you both. Then you pull in front1 of me at the lights rather than queuing behind me, then you jump those lights by 5 seconds or so2, then you jump the lights on York Road which were clearly going to change before you stamped on the pedals, they'd been red for 3 seconds when you went through. And then, after all of that, you moan at a fellow cyclist because you think that everyone else on the roads is a twat? I've only seen one real twat on the roads this morning so far..."

Him: "..."

1. I passed him whilst he was calling the cabbie names.
2. Lucky for him, otherwise he'd have held me up and I'd have been delving deep into the large economy bag of stab.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Seldom Killer on 26 October, 2010, 09:41:46 am
Today is wet, which means stupid. Today's prime example was an SUV (what a shock). Mother and kids, none of whom seemed to be wearing a seatbelt, gunned it wide to get past me before a pinchpoint. Very wide actually, pretty much to the other kerb. The result being that she clipped the pinch point and seemed to lose control. Luckily she managed to retain control when she careened into the left hand kerb.

I'm learning a lot about parenting, should I ever have kids.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 26 October, 2010, 10:11:32 am
Wet n warm n very windy

Legs are good though
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 26 October, 2010, 10:16:18 am
Quote from: Greenbank on 26 October, 2010, 09:39:43 am
At the traffic lights by the pedestrian crossing on York Road near Waterloo station.


LOL, really?  That's awesome!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 October, 2010, 10:19:32 am
Very impressed with a rider last night.  On a Giant MTB with fat tyres and a power meter hub.

Kept pace all the way up from Stockwell to Tooting Broadway.  I was pushing a bit; there was no way I could have managed that pace on an MTB.

Good to ride with people who are a shade faster.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: urban_biker on 26 October, 2010, 10:47:30 am
I expected to get wet this morning - but didn't. Rain started 15 minutes after I arrived at work and I had a superb commute and came the long way in.  I suspect they'll be a headwind as I head West on the way home though.

Legs finally coming back online after some kind of cold/bug that didn't really make me feel unwell, but just so crap and tired on the bike. Either that or I am just fat and unfit ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 26 October, 2010, 12:44:35 pm
Well it was very wet round my parts* this morning and promises to be equally moist on the return.  First use of incontinence waterproof trousers for some time.

*itsbruce - It's an aged R4 'Radio Active' reference from when they spoofed the (also now long defunct) 'Down Your Way' with a show called 'Round Your Parts'.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RJ on 26 October, 2010, 01:56:47 pm
Chased an RLJ-ing Discovery for just shy of 2km (Bruntsfield - Royal Mile via Victoria Street*) - and caught up with it in a queue of traffic at the top of the Mound.

I was polite  :o

* - up the way  (http://www.edinburghseasons.com/2009-06-03/victoria-street-edinburgh/) :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: urban_biker on 26 October, 2010, 02:28:22 pm
Quote from: Nuncio on 26 October, 2010, 12:44:35 pm
Well it was very wet round my parts* this morning and promises to be equally moist on the return.  First use of incontinence waterproof trousers for some time.

*itsbruce - It's an aged R4 'Radio Active' reference from when they spoofed the (also now long defunct) 'Down Your Way' with a show called 'Round Your Parts'.

I did love Radio Active. And of course KYTV which was also excellent. My kind of humour.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 October, 2010, 04:41:37 pm
Oh yes, stunningly beautiful pink sky over Croydon at sunrise.  Wonderful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 26 October, 2010, 07:58:46 pm
Quote from: iddu on 05 October, 2010, 08:56:43 am
Oops - two less cars....
Ooh foook - scratch one more, plus driver, by lack of B&T's

When will they learn the bends by Ashdown bite :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 October, 2010, 08:34:23 pm
By, that were windy!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: urban_biker on 27 October, 2010, 12:39:53 pm
Last night was very wet.
This morning was very wet.


I quite enjoyed it really  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 27 October, 2010, 03:00:03 pm
The weather on my commute this morning was weird.  Leaving Croydon the skies opened, I stopped to put my waterproof on, since it was starting to soak through my jersey, and turned both of my lights on in flashing mode because it was getting so dark (an Exposure Race Maxx, and Dinotte 140R are very visible under such conditions!)

By the time I got to Clapham Common it was bright sunshine (which as least was convenient for taking photos (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=39762.msg759012#msg759012)).

Last night was very gusty with the wind managing to be annoying and helpful more or less alternating by the minute.  It wasn't half so bad (wind wise) this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tourist Tony on 27 October, 2010, 08:48:31 pm
Quote from: clarion on 26 October, 2010, 04:41:37 pm
Oh yes, stunningly beautiful pink sky over Croydon at sunrise.  Wonderful.
Yes, and at Gatwick, and then it blew and pissed down!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 October, 2010, 08:58:06 pm
Warm on the way home.  Buff not needed and jacket felt like overkill.  Considered swapping gloves for mitts.

Met Butterfly & we trundled home together, which was lovely :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 28 October, 2010, 10:59:10 am
Stupid rabbit.  Next time look before you try to cross. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Rimnod on 28 October, 2010, 08:13:42 pm
Had 2 days off the bike, had to use the car to travel to a course.  Strange driving in the morning and evening on roads I commute on.  Very stressful.  Joy, back to tredder today, 20 miles, 15mph avg with a 1000 feet of resistance to keep me interested.  Rural route, lot of road kill, badger, young deer, rabbits and a fox.  Used to seeing some but not badgers and deer.  Find it sad that someone can run into / over such large creatures and not stop to move them off the road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 28 October, 2010, 08:31:43 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 28 October, 2010, 10:59:10 am
Stupid rabbit.  Next time look before you try to cross. 

Cold cross bunny?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 28 October, 2010, 08:33:26 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 28 October, 2010, 10:59:10 am
Stupid rabbit.  Next time look before you try to cross. 

+1.

Oh, and same for vipers in France.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: longers on 28 October, 2010, 08:43:00 pm
On the way home last night I caused a van driver to stop and apologise for cutting me up.

On the way home tonight I stopped and apologised to him for my over the top reaction last night.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 28 October, 2010, 08:46:53 pm
Not today, but last night on the way home.  Crossing over Chelsea Bridge, I couldn't work out what emergency vehicle was coming towards me.  It wasn't in front, it wasn't behind, I even looked across at embankment, because sirens along there can carry a fair distance across the river, but I couldn't see the danged thing.  Then it clicked, I looked down, and it was the river police hammering it upstream with lights and sirens ablaze.  They had exactly the same siren that the Met police cars use.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 28 October, 2010, 08:47:43 pm
I was on annual leave today, but I rode up to meet Butterfly and do her commute.  I was early enough to do some looping around Wandsworth, including twice up Battersea Rise, once up St Johns Hill, twice up St Anns Hill.  None of them exactly cols, but you notice them.

Then home with Butterfly, which is always nice.

Total of 40km.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 28 October, 2010, 09:15:27 pm
Darn it, I might have bumped into you, had I a) left work at a normal hour and b) been on my bike... That's my manor, that is - daily grimping up Allfarthing Lane  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 28 October, 2010, 09:24:04 pm
Well, that would have been nice.  You could have shown me how to climb the hills properly! ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mobbsy on 29 October, 2010, 08:13:09 am
Bit windy today, I even had to pedal downhill  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 29 October, 2010, 09:10:02 am
Really didn't want to get on the bike this morning, but glad I did.  The commute wasn't particularly pleasant or swift, but having ridden in, showered and changed, I feel good! :) 
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 29 October, 2010, 09:14:16 am
I suspect I ride the opposite direction to you fellows. ;D

I topped 25kph average, which is vanishingly rare.  :smug:

This post may contain tailwind or traces of tailwind ;D

I'll probably pay for it on the way home :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 29 October, 2010, 09:19:58 am
I'll only be driving today, a couple of miles to the cattery with Talisker, and then over 200 up t'North.  Then probably less than 24 hours later, turn around and do the reverse trip, possibly also involving picking Talisker up from the cattery!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 29 October, 2010, 10:36:07 am
Quote from: TimO on 29 October, 2010, 09:19:58 am
I'll only be driving today, a couple of miles to the cattery with Talisker, and then over 200 up t'North.  Then probably less than 24 hours later, turn around and do the reverse trip, possibly also involving picking Talisker up from the cattery!

As you might have guessed from Clarion's post, you missed a corker of a tailwind today!
Well into the 40kph band through Tooting and Queenstown Road this monring, and no traffic, so fantastic fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 29 October, 2010, 10:54:43 am
Quote from: alexb on 29 October, 2010, 10:36:07 am
As you might have guessed from Clarion's post, you missed a corker of a tailwind today!
Well into the 40kph band through Tooting and Queenstown Road this monring, and no traffic, so fantastic fun.

Yes, I noticed how much the leaves are being blown around.  On the other hand, if it's still like that later on, it's going to be an absolute bugger cycling home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 29 October, 2010, 10:58:57 am
As it happens, it wasn't quite a tailwind, being slightly across (I learn from the Met Office website).  However, it is turning so it will be a direct headwind this evening.

Joy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moultonaught on 29 October, 2010, 10:59:27 am
a late start leaving home & a notable headwind meant this morning was a 'Flat out Friday' - as a potterer that doesn't happen very often.

got to the station & got my bike locked up with 2 mins to spare!

From how my legs currently feel I think it might  be a grovelly ride home this evening...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 29 October, 2010, 11:00:48 am
I had a tail wind (once I'd been to the doctor's surgery to drop off a sample) and so despite the detour it was only slightly longer than normal riding to work.

When I got to work, I discovered my fly was undone.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Seldom Killer on 29 October, 2010, 11:07:28 am
The last day of half-term today so I made cashed in on the lack of traffic and usd the whole road. Not really a lot faster but it was nice to rip across roundabouts and junctions that are usually jammed up with other traffic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 November, 2010, 09:39:36 am
Loads of traffic on the road today.  Almost taken out by idiot WVM in the first 10mins.  But it was a decent commute for all that.  Ignoring the motons, it was most acceptable indeed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 01 November, 2010, 10:54:22 am
First day back on the commute after a week away.  Warm day, comparitively.  Certainly no need for gloves.  Hindered a little by both slow drivers and slow cyclists.  Nice to be back on a proper bike after the clunky hire bikes of Berlin.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 01 November, 2010, 11:34:30 am
Well despite the grumbling elsewhere I was and will continue to  be grateful for the respite of (half) light for the work-bound ride this morning and for the next week or so after the dark "taster" sessions of the few weeks. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 01 November, 2010, 11:55:13 am
Overlooking the hi-viz jacket, it was nice to see someone this morning on a Brompton cycling in their work clothes.  Unfortunately, the combination of small-wheeled folding bike and chef's trousers (http://www.trifid.co.uk/DC28.jpg) did look a bit comical.  If the trousers had been this style (http://www.bowak.co.uk/jangro/images/DC815.jpg) I may have been tempted to stop and ask for directions to the circus.  ;D
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 02 November, 2010, 06:38:09 am
I had a classic 'parallel turn of wank' yesterday morning.  I feel extra points should be awarded for artistic merit though.

Lesser spotted WVM decides to make a right turn out of a side road just as I approach, as ever totally misjudging my speed.  Cue moton breath driving along next to me for ages on the wrong side of the road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: urban_biker on 02 November, 2010, 07:54:04 am
Quote from: Gandalf on 02 November, 2010, 06:38:09 am
I had a classic 'parallel turn of wank' yesterday morning.  I feel extra points should be awarde for artistic merit though.

Lesser spotted WVM decides to make a right turn out of a side road just as I approach, as ever totalling misjudging my speed.  Cue moton breath driving along next to me for ages on the wrong side of the road.

My standard procedure is:

1) Take primary position as they pull out on you.
2) Pedal as hard as possible and maintain speed alongside them.
3) Hope a car comes the other way and meets them head on. 

Disclaimer: This activity is risky and childish ( but amusing if it works out ;) )
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ed_o_brain on 02 November, 2010, 09:02:55 am
Quote from: Gandalf on 02 November, 2010, 06:38:09 am
I had a classic 'parallel turn of wank' yesterday morning.  I feel extra points should be awarde for artistic merit though.

Lesser spotted WVM decides to make a right turn out of a side road just as I approach, as ever totalling misjudging my speed.  Cue moton breath driving along next to me for ages on the wrong side of the road.

Ahh.. that's what a 'parallel turn of wank' is?
POTD?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 02 November, 2010, 09:10:21 am
To the driver of the car who didn't even have the excuse of talking on a mobile phone to blame for inability to remain in lane or navigate a corner as if there are other road users anywhere in the road, I applaud you. At least you chose your car to advertise your ability: The Honda Jizz.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 02 November, 2010, 09:17:21 am
It's a tad windy out there. 25mph gusting to 35. Headwind, of course  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 November, 2010, 09:33:43 am
Good ride.

Tailwind.

Nothing like it's going to be on Thursday :o

Loads of motorised fuckwits exhibiting quite the worst behavioour I've seen in a long time, including pulling up alongside me at a red light for a pedestrian crossing then, as the peds start crossing, zooming off across.

I saw more motorised than cycle RLJing this morning, which, when you consider the proportion getting the opportunity, is really quite alarming.

And I nearly had a SMIDSY from a stupid woman on a Sirrus crossing Upper Tooting Road. >:(

But a good ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 02 November, 2010, 09:37:09 am
Came across the aftermath of a cycle/ped collision just outside Old COllege in Embra this morning. Looked like chap on bike in the bus lane ran into a pedestrian crossing through the traffic.

Pringled front wheel, minor cut on head, bit of a creaky back and quite shaken. Several motorists stopped and a couple of other cyclists. He seemed to be in good hands. The ped had just limped off, leaving the chap lying in the road.

..d
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 02 November, 2010, 09:42:17 am
Yesterday morning I spent part of my commute riding along side Valiant's mate Dave (know to a fair number of London forumites).

Today was a hard slog due to the headwind, but made a bit more bearable by spotting someone on an interesting bike.  It was a Reef, but didn't get the model name.  What caught my eye was the lack of seat stays on this carbon steed.  The rider, who picked it up from t'bay a few years ago, said it's from 1992.  He now runs it as a single-speed.  I've had a quick look but can't find anything online, not even a pic.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 02 November, 2010, 10:32:18 am
Alfine made a funny noise first thing.  Fiddling with the adjuster didn't help but it eventually went away.  Maybe it needs oiling

Put the Marathon Plus back on last night as it is now officially "not summer"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 02 November, 2010, 10:43:24 am
Today, all my grief was from cyclists.  One slow moving RLJer at the junction by Stockwell tube found me yelling "Get out of the ****ing way, you ****ing ****!" at him; the light's had changed, I had made for the northern exit at speed (yes, SW<->NE commuting morons, people do enter and leave that junction from the NW) only to find him trundling slowly away from the lights.

Later on, I found the lights in my favour at the crossing over Cromwell Road (very rare event) and started passing the slow convoy of cyclists who had been waiting at the lights.  It was the two in front who gave me more occasion for swearing (if quietly, rather than out loud); the one in second place signalled right, so I dropped back, only to see him sail past the next turn.  He was signalling for two turns ahead!  Gah!  So I whipped past him, by which time the crossing that he had signalled for was near.  The leader of the tortoise pack had not signalled, so I kept my centre-line position and sped past her - at which point, she decided to turn (without either signalling or looking).  Thankfully, she was moving slowly enough that I avoided a collision with spare space.  No signal, no look behind, no sympathy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 02 November, 2010, 10:48:06 am
Early commute due to visiting physio; one moronic driver.  I think I locked the back wheel on my fixie because his tailgating antics & aggressive driving distracted me from the car in front stopping (I was keeping up with traffic).  Slightly disconcerting to find your legs suddenly stopping because of braking.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 02 November, 2010, 11:22:16 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 02 November, 2010, 10:43:24 am
No signal, no look behind, no sympathy.

I thought you said listening was enough!!  ;)  :P ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 02 November, 2010, 04:15:41 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 02 November, 2010, 09:42:17 am
Today was a hard slog due to the headwind, but made a bit more bearable by spotting someone on an interesting bike.  It was a Reef, but didn't get the model name.  What caught my eye was the lack of seat stays on this carbon steed.  The rider, who picked it up from t'bay a few years ago, said it's from 1992.  He now runs it as a single-speed.  I've had a quick look but can't find anything online, not even a pic.
 

Jurek wins today's google-fu award:  :thumbsup:
Quote from: Jurek on 02 November, 2010, 03:17:02 pm
Anything like this? (http://www.epxbikes.com/OwnersForum/tabid/121/aff/1/aft/82/afv/topic/Default.aspx)
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 02 November, 2010, 09:20:48 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 02 November, 2010, 11:22:16 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 02 November, 2010, 10:43:24 am
No signal, no look behind, no sympathy.

I thought you said listening was enough!!  ;)  :P ;D

You know I didn't :P

Lovely, fast ride back today.  Was so full of energy at the end that I'd have been happy to do the same distance again.   Popped into the local corner shop (which isn't on the corner, so is called the not-corner-shop by local wits); while I was picking up groceries, a bloke approaches me and asks where I got my bike, cause it looks good and he'd like to get one like it.  Always nice to hear.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 02 November, 2010, 09:40:47 pm
Well that was one of the worst commutes I've ever had. Medium heavy rain, semi-flooded roads, huge amounts of road spray. And this idiot forgot the spare batteries for his main light.
At one point I had an arctic+trailer overtaking within arm's reach and couldn't see more than 2 feet in any direction. All I could do was hold my line and pray. Gave up after 10 miles and took off my glasses. That was marginally better - I'm 4.5diopters out in one eye and 3.75 in the other, so not terribly terribly short-sighted. Just can't make out things like potholes or the edge of the road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 02 November, 2010, 10:34:01 pm
Mmmmh. Bit unexpected...
Heavy rain all the way with very high winds on the peaks - 30+ mph  :P
Pitch dark with lots of poodles lying about. Thankful for the usual good performance of the Son+Cyo.
I even took the scenic extra loop home giving a total of 35km and 900m climbing for the homeward leg of the commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 02 November, 2010, 10:52:49 pm
I was in the car last night, so tonight was the first chance to try the Hope in anger.
Serious like!

I just need to remember to keep a spare set of AAs in the bag.

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 03 November, 2010, 12:01:55 am
Windy ride home this evening!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: dasmoth on 03 November, 2010, 12:21:41 am
Oooof, that was a bit breezy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 03 November, 2010, 06:14:28 am
Driving rain, howling headwind, 3mph down on average - loverly  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 03 November, 2010, 07:41:12 am
Very warm morning(dry) in London at 6:30.
Because of the Tube strike there was nearly 4 miles of grid-locked traffic from the City to Stratford :demon:
A lot more cyclists on the road to scalp  :thumbsup: Thought my backwheel needed truing, got to work and realised i have 2 broken spokes. :'(
Wrong thread i know, What is a fair cost to have it fixed, i have  an LBS around the courner and The biggest Evans bike shop in the country just a bit further down the street.....please your advise my baby's poorly :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 03 November, 2010, 08:18:02 am
Not much more traffic than usual heading in from East London to the City.  Then again, I was well on my way by 06:30, so for that early time I assume numbers were up.  Still made good time.  The weather is absolutely lovely, shame I didn't have time to detour and enjoy it.

Will sit here until I get booted off the network tonight (8-ish), hope traffic has eased up by then.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 03 November, 2010, 08:44:12 am
Just a short 10 minute ride to the station this morning but that proved plenty enough time to witness two pieces of first-class twattery.

First, as I waited to turn right onto a NSL main road...

WVM#1 had both hands off the wheel so he could remove his jacket. 

Then moments later...

WVM#2 was at least controlling his steering with his elbows. While using both hands to compose a text message. Both eyes fixed on his phone. 

Good to know that control of one's vehicle is a priority when driving at high speed on a busy road used by vulnerable cyclists.

d. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Seldom Killer on 03 November, 2010, 09:07:47 am
So apparently two wrongs do make a right.

Would be left hooker collided with would be t-boner right in front of me. Leant on the anchors and stopped with less than a foot to spare.

Unsurprisingly they both declined my offer to hang around and tell the police that they were both a pair of f**king idiots and should hand in their licenses before they actually manage to kill someone.

Does anyone know why rain makes drivers so frighteningly stupid?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 03 November, 2010, 09:09:51 am
said "I like your boat/bucket on wheels!" to the chap that has a Baksfiet cargo thing
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 03 November, 2010, 09:19:23 am
What lovely commutes.  Not cold for November. Last night strong tailwind making easy riding. This morning wind has dropped.  Dampness on the ground but no rain. Lots of cars to pass by schools but this was quickly done.  Best of all I got to pass the same bus twice once in Pencoed then again in Coychurch. Good because there is a section of free moving dual carriageway in between. Far too many cars obstructing the bus in Pencoed. Despite the cars I was not held up at all.  Commutes are just great at the moment. Even the large quantity of little brown slippy things on the road is not causing problems yet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 November, 2010, 09:35:01 am
Insanity has gripped the citizens of Sarf Londontonshire.

There's a tube strike, so, obviously you go grab the car and drive on the (normally quite congested) A3 like a pillock, gridlocking every junction from Clapham South to Elephant & Castle & beyond, jamming up all the ratruns, and generally behaving like a complete wazzock.

Made me take nearly four minutes more than usual ;D

But it wasn't as fun a ride as usual, until you factor in the mountain of Schadenfreude.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 03 November, 2010, 10:02:24 am
I'd completely forgotten about the strike. The first park of my ride in was empty.
But oh my! South Kensington parents - you don't even use public transport, so what was that all about this morning!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 03 November, 2010, 10:08:18 am
Just to add a bit of interest on top of the tube strike, the M25 has been closed since 3AM today between 21A and 22 clockwise, due to an accident.  I was driving in at 7AM and it was still closed (a LOT of claret must have been spilt for it to be closed that long) so pandemonium reigned supreme in N. London.

Really really really wish I had brough my bike down with me last weekend, but I will do next week and do some cycling....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 03 November, 2010, 10:34:35 am
Train was much busier than normal but I still got on the first one thanks to my (sad) superior knowledge of exactly where to stand on the platform.

Had to get the train because I hadn't sorted out the Weeride seat to do the nursery run (now my responsibility), despite having many many months to get this done.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 03 November, 2010, 11:33:19 am
It was quite odd today, the traffic up to Stratford was much lighter than normal, but then it was thick as treacle all the way. Took half hour longer than normal.

Plus I have to swing through Slough later on... the slough of despond, think today will hit 120Km.  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 03 November, 2010, 01:18:34 pm
Quote from: Andyf on 03 November, 2010, 07:41:12 am
Very warm morning(dry) in London at 6:30.
Because of the Tube strike there was nearly 4 miles of grid-locked traffic from the City to Stratford :demon:
A lot more cyclists on the road to scalp  :thumbsup: Thought my backwheel needed truing, got to work and realised i have 2 broken spokes. :'(
Wrong thread i know, What is a fair cost to have it fixed, i have  an LBS around the courner and The biggest Evans bike shop in the country just a bit further down the street.....please your advise my baby's poorly :sick:


Seriously, you should do this yourself.  Take the wheel round to the LBS and they'll sell you the right length spokes.  Find an equivalent spoke a bit further round so you can check how it supposed to get threaded around the other spokes and off you go.  You'll need a spoke key (or a pair of pliers) as well.  Once the spoke's finger tight, start checking whether the wheel is getting truer with each quarter turn of the nipple.  Sheldon Brown's good for this sort of caper.  Have you had a look?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Zipperhead on 03 November, 2010, 02:18:28 pm
As I was going slowly (and carefully) down the outside of two lanes of stationary traffic this morning in Wandsworth, a woman on a bicycle decided to come out from inside of the traffic to the outside, without bothering with details such as looking.

I slowed down to avoid her, but then she decided that wasn't enough and cut across the car coming the other way and rode up onto the pavement, or would have done had she not been at an angle to the curb. Mrs. Karma meets Mr. Gravity. No serious harm done fortunately.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Seldom Killer on 03 November, 2010, 02:40:02 pm
Quote from: Zipperhead on 03 November, 2010, 02:18:28 pm
Mrs. Karma meets Mr. Gravity.

They do make such beautiful children.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 03 November, 2010, 02:52:34 pm
Quote from: clarion on 03 November, 2010, 09:35:01 am
Insanity has gripped the citizens of Sarf Londontonshire.

There's a tube strike, so, obviously you go grab the car and drive on the (normally quite congested) A3 like a pillock, gridlocking every junction from Clapham South to Elephant & Castle & beyond, jamming up all the ratruns, and generally behaving like a complete wazzock.


And more dumb cyclists on the streets to make it worse.   Stockwell junction was just as you say: jammed with cars.  When the lights changed in my favour and the Stockwell Road traffic tried to move forwards, some big fat cockwomble of an RLJer on a blue road bike came within a whisper of knocking me and a fellow cyclist off our bikes both as he sped across the flow from the East.  Pillock.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 03 November, 2010, 08:15:33 pm
I had a lovely ride home. First go in proper dark, and a bit drizzley but Somehow, it just all felt great. Ave speed 26.2. Had some great cheesy pop to singalong to, and hammered home. Ace.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 03 November, 2010, 08:31:39 pm
That almost gave me cause to re-define 'hell'.

Was supposed to leave the office at 8pm, but I forgot that IT was doing server work tonight.  No problem, I thought, I'll just move documents to my local drive then back onto the network in the morning.  Bah!  My computer was slower than a slow thing have an off day.

On the road by 7:15.  I never thought I'd get out of the City!  Each option was worse than the previous.  The roads cleared up after the City and the trip was almost pleasant — until Bow.  Either side of the flyover was madness, but the flyover itself was clear.  Shame such lovely weather was wasted on such a busy day.

Bring on tomorrow!
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 November, 2010, 08:35:37 pm
Quite a smooth ride home, all things considered :)

Barely stopped.  It wasn't fast, but that was more to do with the headwind.  Had a funny chat with a couple of blokes at Balham, and discovered one of them was heading to the same place as me, though a bit slower. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 03 November, 2010, 08:37:03 pm
Tube strike + Chelsea at home + inability of Chelsea fans to attend match without own motor vehicle + commute starting at Chelsea: pure unalloyed shite.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 03 November, 2010, 08:37:16 pm
Two old guys on bikes stopped to talk to me this afternoon. One followed me to ask about my fixed gear as he was having trouble with his ancient hub gear and fancied something simple for winter trips to his allotmet.

The other guy was strange; he seemed very excited about his new front light, as far as I could tell from the grinning and pointing.
I wonder if today was the day that every single cycle commuter I saw said "Hi" or something.

I love the sociability of cycle commuting.  :thumbsup:

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pippa on 03 November, 2010, 08:42:20 pm
Agree with Andrij. I ended up snaking my way through the City turning off main roads and at junctions where possible. In the end I had to admit defeat and use CS3.

Andrij, I left within about 5mins of you. We should have co-ordinated to go to the pub and wait for the worst to pass take them on together  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 03 November, 2010, 08:48:48 pm
Quote from: Pippa on 03 November, 2010, 08:42:20 pm
Andrij, I left within about 5mins of you. We should have co-ordinated to go to the pub and wait for the worst to pass take them on together  :thumbsup:

Deal!  Next tube strike we'll need to makes some plans.  ;)
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 03 November, 2010, 09:21:13 pm
Head wind this morning but felt good so pushed hard all the way.

And get this, I was surrounded all commute long by kind and considerate drivers.

1  Sainsburys artic pulled right into the other lane to get past. These guys are normally good but not that good.

2  Bus at stop ahead signals to pull out, I slow down to let him out. He pops his arm out of the window and beckons me on. Thumbs up as I go past and shout thank you. (Immediately after the stop the bus turns right at a narrow spot and is always held up by oncoming traffic.)

3  At red traffic lights by Hampton water works a Leoline coach approaches from behind and even though I am in the left filter lane he stops a good distance back from me in the straight on lane. I catch his eye and let him know that he can go first. Big smile and another thumbs up (and I draft him up the hill).

My goodness. What's got in to everybody ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 03 November, 2010, 09:52:58 pm
Quote from: hatler on 03 November, 2010, 09:21:13 pm
My goodness. What's got in to everybody ?

It is a venture into the land of the lowered saddle.

My return from Slough was marked by the pannier rack shearing around Picadilly.

I just metaphorically shrugged my shoulders and slowed down on my way out the city and home, the confluence of irate drivers and inexperienced cyclists is not the best recipe.

But the saddest thing is that all those who tried cycling will go away with the impression that cycling on the commute is not fun, where the truth is that on a normal day that many cyclists would achieve critical mass.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Zipperhead on 03 November, 2010, 10:01:24 pm
An unpleasant bit of the trip back home tonight. Apart from the extra traffic everything came to a halt on the Embankment heading east. The westbound road was closed, at the entrance to Scotland Yard there was a motorcycle on the ground, bits of clothing scattered around and a car in the entrance. I'm guessing that the car turned right across the bike and t-boned him (or her)

Lots of police, lots of tape, photographers at work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 03 November, 2010, 10:16:07 pm
(Can I contribute even though I was in a motor?)

Anyway, for complicated (and now it turns out, avoidable) reasons I had to drive into That London (Marble Arch) today. Forgot there was a tube strike, oops. Left unbelievably early and took the satnav's idea of a good way to go. This had had me going up the A23 and then over to Balham High Road. Kept my eyes peeled for TimO and Clarion but no luck.  Very pleasantly surprised by the huge number of cyclists I saw. And, damnit, nearly all of them stopped for the red lights.

On the way home gong past HPC I bemoaned the lack of a man in a knee bandage to stop the traffic so I could get through. I thought he was a standard feature of that junction. Leastways he's always been there when I've been there before. Folllowed the FNRTTC Brighton route to Horley. Which took forever, like two and half hours. Bloody cars.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 03 November, 2010, 10:27:51 pm
Did you stop for a break when you were half way across Clapham Common?  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 03 November, 2010, 10:41:42 pm
I am just about to ride home. This is the middle of what could turn out to be my penultimate week of cycle commuting :'(

Start a new role on 15th November. This role includes mandatory essential user status for my private vehicle. I HAVE to have immediate access to a car at all times whilst at work.

I am scheming though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 03 November, 2010, 10:47:26 pm
Quote from: fuzzy on 03 November, 2010, 10:41:42 pm
I am just about to ride home. This is the middle of what could turn out to be my penultimate week of cycle commuting :'(

Start a new role on 15th November. This role includes mandatory essential user status for my private vehicle. I HAVE to have immediate access to a car at all times whilst at work.

I am scheming though.
Drive in Monday with bike on car. Park car cycle home at end of day.
Cycle commute all week, and drive home friday with bike for weekend use.

simples.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 03 November, 2010, 10:49:35 pm
Quote from: matthew on 03 November, 2010, 10:47:26 pm

Drive in Monday with bike on car. Park car cycle home at end of day.
Cycle commute all week, and drive home friday with bike for weekend use.

simples.

Like I said-
Quote from: fuzzy on 03 November, 2010, 10:41:42 pm
I am scheming though.

 ;)

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 04 November, 2010, 12:57:05 am
Was very nearly taken out by a car at the crossroads on Penge High Street this evening.

I'd positioned myself in front of the queue while waiting for the lights to change, so I was strictly over the line, but the lights were green before I started moving. I was nearly halfway across the junction when a car hoved into view from the right and cut across my bows at some speed, missing my front wheel by inches.

I think he'd actually been stuck behind another car that was turning right. So to be fair, it was perhaps more a case of completing a manoeuvre already started before the lights had changed rather than RLJing. But it was done in a pretty reckless fashion. And I don't know that he was justified in completing his crossing - he probably could have waited for the lights to change back in his favour again. I'm not convinced he would have caused an obstruction if he'd waited.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 04 November, 2010, 06:11:45 am
I've been seconded into HQ for 3 months.  My commute distance has been reduced by half.  Good job really as I am working such long hours that I would not be able to cope with the extra miles.  But there is always a silver lining, the shorter distance will enable me to learn to ride the fixed  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 04 November, 2010, 06:24:52 am
Very very very windy out there today people.  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 04 November, 2010, 08:17:39 am
Well. That hasn't happened in a long time; selecting a lower gear to cycle downhill.  Tch tch tch. Still, if the wind stays where it is then I should have a storming run home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 04 November, 2010, 08:32:56 am
Bit breezy here too. What're the chances that it'll spin round giving me a tailwind home too?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: darkpoint on 04 November, 2010, 08:57:21 am
Vast amount of cars out this morning, I think I passed a solid line of cars from Denmark hill to London bridge.   What the heck was going on.

Most annoyingly they where not leaving gaps for bikes to get through so it was really hard work to spot gaps I could filter through.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 04 November, 2010, 09:22:36 am
As I passed a hedge a what seemed like a load of leaves shot in my face.  But it was a flock of long tailed tits.

Too hot today!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 04 November, 2010, 09:31:42 am
Yesterday, rather than today...

Silly silly man who passed me on my right in order to get ahead of me and end up in front of the large and fairly empty ASL,  after I had spotted you quite some distance back and stuck out a hand to indicate that I was at the right hand side of the ASL because I intended to turn right, having correctly predicted that you, like 99% of people there, would be going straight on....

I have no ninja bike skillz at all.  So if even I can see that your trackstanding is crap, you know you shouldn't be doing it in public.  Oh look - you nearly fell off and had to put a foot down!  Lucky for all concerned that you fell away from the other cyclist that you had edged in front of.  Thank you - you can't imagine how rare it is for me to have a smug moment on the commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 04 November, 2010, 09:51:49 am
Strong headwind blowing rain in my face.  Ah, November.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 04 November, 2010, 10:07:37 am
Ooh, that was a good commute.

Now that the gas main replacement works have finished the no right turn onto Upper Richmond Road on the direct route is back in force, so I took the alternative to avoid it. Just approaching URR I slowed to let a woman walking her children to school to cross the road. Polite thank you from her and both her children. De nada Señora Gonzalez Durantez.

Drafted a lorry between Lupus St and Vauxhall Bridge with a police car behind me as an escort. GPS says I hit 49.4kph with most of that section done at 40kph+. Wry smile from the coppers as they overtook... :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 04 November, 2010, 11:02:23 am
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 04 November, 2010, 09:51:49 am
Strong headwind blowing rain in my face.  Ah, November.


Short-sleeved jersey on way in to work. November, really??
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 04 November, 2010, 11:06:44 am
Quote from: Grub on 04 November, 2010, 06:24:52 am
Very very very windy out there today people.  :facepalm:

I rose to the challenge and did my fastest commute for months.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 04 November, 2010, 11:07:25 am
Quote from: simonp on 04 November, 2010, 11:06:44 am
Quote from: Grub on 04 November, 2010, 06:24:52 am
Very very very windy out there today people.  :facepalm:

I rose to the challenge and did my fastest commute for months.


 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 November, 2010, 11:09:49 am
Twas very windy but mild.  I went out early to get a parcel, and realised that I didn't need both layers. 

Good to see so many bikes out there today.  Stryclists doing another day because it's dry & warm?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Access Legal Guy on 04 November, 2010, 11:40:39 am

Rear ended this morning at a set of red lights by a fellow cyclist. Low velocity, no damage and these things happen sometimes. However, as I turned to ask how he had come to hit me the answer was obvious....he was reaching into his top inside pocket to pull out his glasses to put them on.

He apologised, the lights changed and he rode off (glasses in place).

Why on earth, if he requires glasses either in everyday life or simply for driving if he was in a motor vehicle, did he not have them on?

He's putting himself at great risk and I presume he is not alone.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 04 November, 2010, 11:43:00 am
Mild, but v windy.  And what was my reword for a tough commute?  Another **** day in the office.  If there wasn't so much **** to sort out I would have been very tempted to pull a sickie and spend the day playing on the bike, rather than using it to go somewhere that is raising my stress levels.  :'(

Sorry for drifting in the direction of RANT.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 November, 2010, 11:46:05 am
At least you'll have it easy on the way home, and can laugh at the thought of my toiling into the teeth of it to get home in time to do dinner & get out to take TGL to his turbo training.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 04 November, 2010, 12:12:14 pm
On a mission to keep the pace I gained chasing Nick (SimonP's pal) on a DIY 200k. Until this weekend, I'd only been in the big ring twice, and was chastised by my LBS for wearing out my middle ring. Well, having done my commute with the big ring the last 3 days, today I went the hilly route, and whilst I had to use the middle ring on Barrington Hill, I big ringed the rest and kept up my hour pace average of 28.6kph (usual commute is 28.6km) over the 35km, including a stretch on the flat at 45kph that left me ruined. Felt great.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 04 November, 2010, 12:36:08 pm
Grrrr

queued for 5 minutes to complete the first 400m of the commute, (right turn minor to major and level crossing), caught at the temporary traffic lights, stopped to ask the workmen to sweep up the gravel at the end of the contraflow.

Got well and truely scalped climbing out of Bagshot, though he was on a lightweight roadbike with no luggage and I was on my steel tourer with saddlebag and office pannier.

Oh and grovelled into the headwind the whole way. Overall my slowest commute in 18 months.

I am looking forward to the run home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 04 November, 2010, 05:21:42 pm
It was fairly easy coming in today, with the wind more or less behind me (except for the bits where it decided to be a headwind ???).

Going home is going to be a bugger, it's still basically a 20mph south-westerly, pretty much the same as this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adam on 04 November, 2010, 08:46:14 pm
I had a strong south-westerly wind in my face this morning, and by this evening it had veered into a north-westerly coming home.  Very hard work both ways.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 04 November, 2010, 08:51:01 pm
Friday commute on a Thursday again - first ride home that was pitch dark all the way.  Very blowy (to the extent that the bike was pushed sideways on a number of occasions) with a bit of rain, fairly challenging dealing with oncoming traffic with bright headlights on the narrow laney bit.  I briefly contemplated going the short way home.  But then I thought I'd go see if the bats were out on the cycle path long route.  They weren't, but it was a grand ride anyway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 04 November, 2010, 09:06:44 pm
Detoured via three laps of Regent's Park on the way home this evening.  It was fun, but I was surprised at the number of cars.  But the Ring Road down to Old Street was absolute madness!  What were so many cars doing out after 7pm?  The tube strike is over, folks, get back on public transport!

In spite of the cars, loved the riding.  I almost pitied those people (on foot and on bike) who dressed according to the date in the calendar, and not according to the conditions.  Overtrousers, full-finger gloves, heavy jackets?!?  I really should have worn my sandals today.  ;D
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 November, 2010, 10:09:14 pm
That was windy.  Fortunately not too gusty, but like hitting a wall of porridge.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 04 November, 2010, 10:50:05 pm
Raced home (against the wind) straight after playing 5-a-side.

I expect extra-Friday Friday legs tomorrow.

*checks forecast*

A healthy tailwind in the morning dropping to half by the time I come home. Perfect.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 05 November, 2010, 08:18:40 am
Has anyone noticed the new layout of the road works at the junction of oxford st and Tottenham court rd  :o It is now a RLJ w**k-fest  :hand:, 4-5 RJL's all went together just before a bendy bus came flying up Tottenham court rd, In the words of Saw 'There will be blood'  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Seldom Killer on 05 November, 2010, 09:16:46 am
Are Audi drivers not allowed to use their indicators on a Friday? Also, dear disgruntled BMW driver, if you slow down to 2 mph to preserve your precious vehicle over speed humps then I will scalp you, especially on a down hill. Cope with it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 05 November, 2010, 09:28:26 am
As expected yesterdays ride home was far faster than the ride in (45min / 31min). This mornings ride in was another slog. I hope the wind doesn't die down before it returns teh investment this evening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 05 November, 2010, 09:31:26 am
I decided to take it easy this morning, so picked up CS3 at the Canning Town roundabout and followed it all the way to its end at the Minories.  :facepalm:
1) too much paint
2) not enough useful signs
3) some stupid/dangerous sections
4) behaviour of some users has been covered elsewhere, ad nauseum

Back to proper roads this evening, for the first 'full house' in a month or two.  :thumbsup:

BTW, I'm loving this weather!  16℃ at 7AM in November rocks.  ;D  Really should have worn my sandals this morning.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 November, 2010, 09:39:16 am
Nice'n'warm this morning.  And there may have been a tailwind ;)  I even managed to keep up with a couple of speedy regulars, and have a chat with another fast guy (I'm not kidding myself; I know he was taking it a bit easy) while maintaining 30kph.

Fortunately, I'm not going directly home tonight, so I won't have the sapping reality of a head on slog like last night.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 05 November, 2010, 10:01:35 am
Quote from: Andrij on 05 November, 2010, 09:31:26 am

BTW, I'm loving this weather!  16℃ at 7AM in November rocks.  ;D  Really should have worn my sandals this morning.
 

I get that.  I was back in my Captain America lycra this morning.  I invested in some expensive woollen winter kit while I was holidaying and am wondering when it'll be needed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 05 November, 2010, 10:02:28 am
Its Friday so I decided to take the ride in easy. This allows me to ignore the elements until I arrive and need to strip out of the sodden clothing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 05 November, 2010, 10:03:51 am
Met a chap going up College Road last night, he was on a lovely custom Roberts with dynohub, beautifully kitted out.  He was quite chuffed when I told him how good his taste in bikes was.

Had a couple of interesting video moments on the rest of my commute.  They didn't spoil what was a lovely evening though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 05 November, 2010, 11:09:55 am
Still too hot but drizzling.  So I am trying to go for the "naked under gortex" look

Got to the first junction to find a young man who'd lost control of his motorbike on the corner.  Took him back home to let him use the phone and left him in the care of Mrs V.

Bike rack outside Sainburys had a Specialized Globe minus, well everything.  The disks, the handlebars, the wheels, brakes, cables and the seatpost had all gone.  There was just the frame/mudguards and rack left.  It can't have been chained up there more than a day or two, it wasn't there last time I went to Sainsburys.  Note to self: don't leave any bike at that rack overnight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 05 November, 2010, 11:18:08 am
Towed my trailer for the first time since switching to 71".  Was as fast as two weeks ago without trailer.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 November, 2010, 11:19:08 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 05 November, 2010, 11:09:55 am
...naked under gortex...to find a young man ...  Took him back home ...left him in... care ...

I see.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 05 November, 2010, 11:32:47 am
Quote from: Andrij on 05 November, 2010, 09:31:26 am
BTW, I'm loving this weather!  16℃ at 7AM in November rocks.  ;D  Really should have worn my sandals this morning.

You bet !! Every day like this makes Winter one day shorter.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 05 November, 2010, 12:53:22 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 05 November, 2010, 10:03:51 am
Met a chap going up College Road last night, he was on a lovely custom Roberts with dynohub, beautifully kitted out.  He was quite chuffed when I told him how good his taste in bikes was.

Was it a lovely dark blue and rather large? We met a beautifully specced one on the train a few weeks back. It was bought for a lnog ride and had everything you's want :D.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 05 November, 2010, 01:58:24 pm
A minor, albeit unusual probem occurred again on my route home last night. Its the 3rd or 4th time its happened. Part of my commute takes me along a normally quiet and lonely stretch of offroad bike track. It's so quiet, in fact, and so far away from habitation that someone has decided it will be a good place to practice the bag pipes. I find I have this trainee piper blocking the entire path with his back towards me. He is bad, very bad, but rather loud. He even realises that he's bad - he supplements the get up with a pair of ear defenders. This means that he doesn't hear my bell, he doesn't hear me shout. He's concentrating so hard that he dosn't notice the light from my head lamp.

All I can do is to stop, whip the ear defenders off and yell "excuse me" at full volume with my mouth about 6" from his ear lobe. Whenever this happens he jumps and nearly wets himself. He's most apologetic and promises to keep a look out in future. Unfortunately he seems to forget.

The question is:

1) would an airzound help?

2) will he ever get any better? the noise he makes is excrutiating. Its really quite painful on the ears - you have to approach quickly when he's there to minimise the length of time you have to listen.

I've even considered dropping conkers down the pipe thingys in the hope that they might work as a mute a la trombone. Any suggestions, anyone?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 05 November, 2010, 02:19:26 pm
Quote from: SlowCoach on 05 November, 2010, 01:58:24 pm

I've even considered dropping conkers down the pipe thingys in the hope that they might work as a mute a la trombone. Any suggestions, anyone?

Steal the ear defenders? Morally you're on solid ground since your need is greater than his
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 05 November, 2010, 02:29:11 pm
he probably hasn't bothered tuning the drones (the pipes you want to put conkers down). They're not easy to tune on your own and won't make much difference to his practicing. I was once in a room with an entire not very good pipe bsnd as they tuned up. A horrible experience.
Don't know what you do about him, though.
S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 November, 2010, 03:46:44 pm
Quote from: clarion on 05 November, 2010, 09:39:16 am
Fortunately, I'm not going directly home tonight, so I won't have the sapping reality of a head on slog like last night.

You know how sometimes you speak too soon?

Plans changed.  I'm now going to have the sapping reality of a head on slog like last night, except without any lower gears :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 05 November, 2010, 04:08:53 pm
Quote from: Butterfly on 05 November, 2010, 12:53:22 pm
Was it a lovely dark blue and rather large? We met a beautifully specced one on the train a few weeks back. It was bought for a lnog ride and had everything you's want :D.

Could be, I didn't get a good enough look as I was expiring up the hill whilst he tightened the screws.  Large bike for sure, he works at the BofE apparently.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 05 November, 2010, 05:12:37 pm
Like Clarion, I'll have the slog back into a headwind again, with the additional "joy" of having to go around Clapham Common since there's a firework display on there tonight. :-\

Of course, since it's Bonfire Night, there's rain.  I think with careful watching of the rain radar, I can manage to get into the gap between two lots of rain.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 November, 2010, 07:01:17 pm
By, that were moist!  My babbage engine declined to read at one point. 

Good thing, though - the rain meant that I didn't breathe any smoke until I got to Carshalton.  Smoke is A Very Bad Thing for my breathing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 05 November, 2010, 07:10:00 pm
Wet here too.  And dark.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 05 November, 2010, 07:24:37 pm
Managed to get the gap in the rain by chance.

Left work and it had obviously been raining. but I got home dry, and with a tail wind to assist.

[/smug]
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 November, 2010, 08:08:11 pm
I forgot to mention a strange event this morning.  I was going well, so I put in an extra loop.  I went up past a row of shops.  One schoolgirl was drifting across the road without looking, so I avoided her, only for a lad to leap out between some parked cars, with a crutch raised at face height, just in front of me.  He didn't see me till I shouted.  I was pretty pleased I had e-stopped with barely a skid, and remained upright & clipped in.  He was shamed among his mates, and I rode on to cheers. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 05 November, 2010, 08:11:01 pm
First commute for far too long, but I was going well.
It was wet on the road, but rather milder than I expected.
Lots of un/poorly lit cyclists going the other way, presumably to Lewes.
Lots more cyclists than I normally see up on the hill near home.
Some pretty fireworks to watch as well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 November, 2010, 08:12:56 pm
you're right - far too many cyclists with no lights at all.  Madness!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 05 November, 2010, 08:15:37 pm
Well that was nice and dry, I did manage to succeed in avoiding any of the rain. :thumbsup:

Unfortunately the dryness meant that the fireworks display on Clapham Common managed to attract a lot of people.  Now you would think that an area which is served by two Underground stations, and innumerable bus routes would be an obvious place to travel to by public transport.  Apparently not, given the almost total gridlock of cars around it. ??? >:(  How thick do you have to be to try and drive to an event like that?  The chances of finding a parking place where also nil, unless you counted sitting stuck in the traffic as being parked.

I arrived home to find someone trying to deliver Chinese Takeaway to my house.  To someone female... who lived upstairs... ?  Presumably also someone who couldn't give their address clearly enough over the phone.  I'd have been tempted to accept it, but it looked to be a lot more food than even a hungry cyclist, and his small black furry feline companion could have eaten.

Talisker did appear pretty rapidly, which suggests that his Chinese-Takeaway-dar had been triggered, but it was not about to be satisfied.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 November, 2010, 08:19:55 pm
Cruelty to cats!  Go buy that poor feline some take away right now, you eeevill man.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 05 November, 2010, 08:21:43 pm
He'd probably turn his nose up at it anyway!  I gave him some roast beef, from my sandwich makings yesterday, and after one sniff he decided he wasn't interested. :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 November, 2010, 08:25:22 pm
That's odd, cause cats are always eating bits of cooked cow in the wild ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 05 November, 2010, 08:35:05 pm
Well, he has no problem with bits of cooked pig or chicken, and I'm pretty sure that he's been OK with cooked cow as well, in the past, although I'm not in the habit of feeding it to him.

Most cat food is cooked, or seriously processed, to some degree.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 05 November, 2010, 08:53:00 pm
I wish someone would deliver some Chinese food here right now.

Had a partially wet and wholly windy ride home tonight. "Bracing" is the mot juste.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 05 November, 2010, 09:01:30 pm
I was having a ball in the pouring rain on traffic snarled roads tonight. This was the first week for ages that I'd commuted properly, by bike, both ways every day. I was in full-on smug mode when I got a front puncture.

Bah. But Mrs G was at home, with the car, only a mile away. Rescued!!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 05 November, 2010, 09:17:59 pm
On the commute this morning Clarion and I were approaching a roundabout in Carshalton where we turn right. The approach has some pillow traffic calming measures and the majority of the traffic is turning left. A vehicle came up on my left and the driver demanded 'Do you pay road tax' [sic]. So I answered 'yes actually, do you?' to which he looked very confused and said 'ur what er fuck off'. Which probably meant no. I think I won :).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 06 November, 2010, 07:44:05 am
This week has been wet - probably the wettest in 3 years of my daily commute. I've been wet every day. Twice on 3 of them. To compensate, it has been very warm, which makes the madness sort of fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 06 November, 2010, 07:47:21 am
I drove yesterday (as I had meetings I had to drive to).  Coming home was *interesting*...

Several cyclists dressed in black, on dark bikes, on an unlit road... and no lights.  :facepalm:

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 06 November, 2010, 10:34:26 am
The bits in between the raindrops were dry.  Just there weren't very many of them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 07 November, 2010, 11:59:10 am
Just seen the weather forecast for tomorrow. Gale force winds and rain. Excellent.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 07 November, 2010, 12:31:19 pm
Quote from: simonp on 07 November, 2010, 11:59:10 am
... Gale force winds and rain. Excellent.

For very small values of Excellent.  What sort of masochist are you?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 07 November, 2010, 01:48:13 pm
Quote from: Regulator on 06 November, 2010, 07:47:21 am

Several cyclists dressed in black, on dark bikes, on an unlit road... and no lights.  :facepalm:



Cyclists or just people on bikes?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 07 November, 2010, 09:17:51 pm
That's TWO frikkin freehubs trashed in two days.  Bah humbug.

I think it's time to get a decent hub like a hope.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 November, 2010, 09:23:41 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 07 November, 2010, 09:17:51 pm
I think it's time to get a decent hub like a hope.

Sorry?

Speak up a bit, will you?  There's this noisy clicking going on.

I SAID THERE'S A CLICKING NOI.... oh, never mind. ;D







They are very beautiful pieces of engineering, though :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 07 November, 2010, 10:14:03 pm
Quote from: TimO on 07 November, 2010, 12:31:19 pm
Quote from: simonp on 07 November, 2010, 11:59:10 am
... Gale force winds and rain. Excellent.

For very small values of Excellent.  What sort of masochist are you?

Where do I start?  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 07 November, 2010, 10:20:17 pm
On my commute today I got vaguely lost for a couple of miles. I guess that's pretty hard to to do in an 11 mile each way commute  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 07 November, 2010, 10:25:26 pm
Quote from: clarion on 07 November, 2010, 09:23:41 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 07 November, 2010, 09:17:51 pm
I think it's time to get a decent hub like a hope.

Sorry?

Speak up a bit, will you?  There's this noisy clicking going on.

I SAID THERE'S A CLICKING NOI.... oh, never mind. ;D







They are very beautiful pieces of engineering, though :)

I spent a lot of the dark bits of the 2009 Dunwich Dynamo in the company of coll_coll and his Hope freehub.

It's a sound that will now forever evoke memories of my first DD.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 08 November, 2010, 07:52:11 am
Oh dear.  It looks like I'm going to get somewhat moist this morning.  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 08 November, 2010, 07:58:28 am
Quote from: Basil on 08 November, 2010, 07:52:11 am
Oh dear.  It looks like I'm going to get somewhat moist this morning.  :(

I think a lot of us are. :-\

Talisker has gone into winter cat mode, and isn't leaving the house.  I think he may be onto something. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 08 November, 2010, 07:59:30 am
scrounged a lift  :-[ , my father commutes straight past my office. Itherwise it was a bit wet and windy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 08 November, 2010, 08:10:52 am
Hmmm.  Over-dramatic weather forecast or was I just lucky?
Nowhere near as windy as Thurs. last week and not that wet either.
In fact it was a downright pleasant ride in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 08 November, 2010, 08:14:21 am
Well it is windy, and it is rainy in Brighton. In the night it sounded like somebody through a bucket of nails against the window.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 08 November, 2010, 08:17:31 am
A couple of hours ago Pippa said to me "Its windy out there".

"Oh" I said, not shifting from under the duvet, "From which direction?".

"All of them" came the reply.

Having arrived home, I'd say she was right.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 08 November, 2010, 08:22:11 am
:smug: my meeting's been cancelled so I can work from home :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 08 November, 2010, 09:01:13 am
Similar experience to TheLurker here in South Wales.  A calm, dry ride in, though colder than last week and the roads were wet.  I was woken at 5 by the battering at the bedroom window.  It all just died down in time for my ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 08 November, 2010, 09:18:30 am
It was a bit windy, it was a bit wet.  It's November, so what's the big deal?

Not sure what it was like in other parts of the country, but London wasn't bad, even cycling into the wind/rain.  Took a diversion to avoid cars this morning, just because I didn't feel like 'sharing' the road.  Took CS3 from Canning Town then the Thames Path/canal from Limehouse.  I haven't done the latter in ages, but despite the more exposed route, the wet and the leaves I enjoyed it.  Too bad it will be dark by the time I leave the office.  Hopefully the wind will keep up and blow me back home.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 08 November, 2010, 09:26:38 am
Gloves, hat, Shoes, socks, humvees now toasting on various radiators around me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 08 November, 2010, 09:36:50 am
Quote from: Wendy on 07 November, 2010, 09:17:51 pm
That's TWO frikkin freehubs trashed in two days.  Bah humbug.

I think it's time to get a decent hub like a hope.

The cheapest way I found to get a Hope Pro 3 was to obtain a wiggle £5 voucher and then to use the ctcshop.  It came out a smidge under £120.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 08 November, 2010, 10:06:45 am
Quite a pleasant ride in.  One of several things I like about the rain is that it seems to keep the most stupid and annoying cyclists of the road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 08 November, 2010, 10:15:19 am
Wet. Very wet. Cold.

I think I should have put some overshoes on. Sandals + thin socks + gale + lots of water = cold toes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Access Legal Guy on 08 November, 2010, 10:17:52 am
Yep, very few cyclists around this morning. Also, silly season with cars and puddles!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 08 November, 2010, 10:21:20 am
Oh BTW, the rain and wind hit the Westcountry last night and although I cycled up a fast flowing stream when climbing Culm Davey it was pretty much sunny loverlyness this morning

Lots of leaves on the ground however, please be careful
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 08 November, 2010, 10:30:05 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 08 November, 2010, 10:15:19 am
I think I should have put some overshoes on.

I think I need to buy some overshoes!

I cut my ride short this morning - a paltry 13km instead of the planned 26km. Yesterday, I was moaning to anyone who would listen about my fellow club members being dawdlers, but I must have been putting in more effort than I realised at the time because I'm knackered today. Plus I was running late so would have had to push really hard to do the full distance in time, and just didn't have the legs for it. Not quite Friday legs, but maybe Wednesday legs.

Shame, cos I actually had a tailwind for once. And it wasn't actually raining down in east Kent. Raining quite hard in central London, though - hoping it stops before I leave the office this evening but the forecast isn't promising...

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 08 November, 2010, 10:49:12 am
Strong tail wind + very light rain = not a problem.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 08 November, 2010, 11:16:22 am
Bah that was wet! Overshoes FTW though  :thumbsup: Same number of dickhead buses up the Walworth Road. I think this rain is in for the day now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 08 November, 2010, 11:22:48 am
I drove in...  :-[


...but I do have to drive to a meeting this afternoon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Christophe on 08 November, 2010, 11:27:20 am
Used the tube for the first time in ages as I'm off out tonight. Not happy.

I'd rather have been out in it this morning and got wet and cold rather than endure that again.

You lucky b*stards!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 November, 2010, 12:43:10 pm
Damp.

I'm so glad I have access to the boiler room, so I can dry my gloves & socks.  I did, though, bring a spare pair of socks jic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 08 November, 2010, 12:46:15 pm
I'm feeling a bit grotty, some sort of low level lurgy, that's hanging around, so foolishly I decided to use Public Transport, since the wind and rain was enough to put me off using the bike.

The District Line was buggered at Wimbledon, so I got off the Tram at Morden Road, and walked to South Wimbledon.  Then I got the Northern line to Kennington, and changed for the Charing Cross branch, went to Embankment and changed to Circle & District, and then onwards to Gloucester Road.  It only took me 1½ hours, which isn't bad for a fubared route, but not exactly speedy or simple.

I think I should have stuck to cycling. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 08 November, 2010, 12:55:35 pm
Quote from: TimO on 08 November, 2010, 12:46:15 pm
I'm feeling a bit grotty, some sort of low level lurgy, that's hanging around, so foolishly I decided to use Public Transport...

...in order to catch a higher-level lurgy?

I really do worry about the personal hygiene implications of travel on the London Underground.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 08 November, 2010, 12:57:19 pm
Quote from: TimO on 08 November, 2010, 12:46:15 pm
The District Line was buggered at Wimbledon, so I got off the Tram at Morden Road, and walked to South Wimbledon.  Then I got the Northern line to Kennington, and changed for the Charing Cross branch, went to Embankment and changed to Circle & District, and then onwards to Gloucester Road.  It only took me 1½ hours, which isn't bad for a fubared route, but not exactly speedy or simple.

I think I should have stuck to cycling. :-\

That's a bonkers route! A much more sensible route (assuming the District Line problems hadn't upset the nearby trains)  would have been:

Get to Wimbledon, get a train to Clapham Junction (more than 10 an hour).
London Overground train from Clapham Junction to West Brompton.
Then either walk from there if the District Line is still hosed, it's only 1.5 miles.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 08 November, 2010, 01:58:27 pm
There are many many routes, but some are cheaper than others, and most of them take a lot longer.

The fastest route isn't the one I use, but it's probably the cheapest.  East Croydon to Victoria, and then the District line to Gloucester Road is faster, but a bit more expensive (actually I'm not so sure about that now, since I think I can use my Oyster PAYG card on the entire route now).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 08 November, 2010, 02:00:59 pm
* looks out of window *

I love working at home  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 08 November, 2010, 02:07:45 pm
I was quite impressed by the numbers of cyclists out and about in London this morning. All well kitted up apart from one mudguard-free eejit in T-shirt and footy shorts. I suspect that for many people like myself cycling to work is preferable to tube hell not just because of the general cruel-and-unusual aspects of the tube but because it is quicker (I'd have to get up 30 minutes earlier to go by tube and even then I'd run the risk of being late if there was any kind of cock-up or, as is more likely on the District Line, the tube just decides to park somewhere for a while).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 08 November, 2010, 02:18:59 pm
Standing on the pedals riding to the caff at lunchtime. Will be different on the way back.

Still not feeling the need to gear down.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 08 November, 2010, 03:06:18 pm
Quote from: Chris S on 08 November, 2010, 02:00:59 pm
* looks out of window *

I love working at home  :smug:

I too have that  :smug: feeling today ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 08 November, 2010, 03:38:11 pm
Lightweights.  Cycling in the rain has its charms.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 November, 2010, 03:52:11 pm
I spotted a chap at the S Circ in Clapham, fettling in the rain.  I thought it might be a faerie-strike, but I wandered over anyway.  I saw he was dealing with chain, and was sure that my help would be needed.  I mean, how many commuters carry a chaintool?

Well, not just me, it seems.  He was equipped and sorted, if damp.

:thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 08 November, 2010, 04:06:42 pm
I carry a chain tool, I also carry one of those widgets for holding both ends of the chain whilst you use the chain tool, since invariably you otherwise need three hands! (preferably all wearing rubber gloves).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 08 November, 2010, 04:13:37 pm
Since the incident at Mildenhall, I too always carry a chain tool.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 08 November, 2010, 04:15:54 pm
I thought everyone carried a chain tool?  I mean, except the clowns that don't carry a repair kit either.   :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 November, 2010, 04:21:09 pm
You'd be amazed how many people are seriously ill-equipped.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 08 November, 2010, 04:22:48 pm
Quote from: TimO on 08 November, 2010, 01:58:27 pm
There are many many routes, but some are cheaper than others, and most of them take a lot longer.

The fastest route isn't the one I use, but it's probably the cheapest.  East Croydon to Victoria, and then the District line to Gloucester Road is faster, but a bit more expensive (actually I'm not so sure about that now, since I think I can use my Oyster PAYG card on the entire route now).

My suggestion was just what I would have done had I got that close to Wimbledon and found out the district line was out. TFL claims 16 minutes to get from Wimbledon to West Brompton on the District Line and only 25 minutes to via train to CJ and then Overground to WB.

With the district line screwed the train to CJ would have been rammed but doable, and the Overground from there to West Brompton nowhere near as busy.

Different routes from A to B will cost different amounts even with Oyster PAYG until they end the requirement to touch-out & touch-in when moving between different types of transport, as they've got no other way of working out how much money goes to each separate company (trams, SWT, London Overground, London Underground, etc). Plus there's the problem (of trams at least) of having platforms with no gates (and a system that doesn't trust people).

TFL's website says a single from East Croydon to Gloucester Road is £5.00 (peak), which I'm guessing is the obvious change at Victoria, but cheaper at £4.50 with a change at Elephant & Castle (ugh, Northern Line) or Vauxhall (not so bad Victoria Line).

Tram from East Croydon to Wimbledon is £2.70 (peak) with Oyster, from there you can go:

Gloucester Road on the tube is £2.70 peak (so that's £5.40 in total)
Earls Court is £1.30 at any time on the tube (so only £4 in total, and only half a mile extra walk past Gloucester Road).

East Croydon, Clapham Junction, West Brompton is £4 too, but leaves you an extra walk of a mile or so).

With London, it's cheaper to get the train into Zone 1 and then get the tube whilst inside Zone 1, rather than it is to get the tube from Zone 2 (or beyond) into Zone 1. Earl's Court is cheaper than Gloucester Road because it's in both Zone 1 and Zone 2, so traveling from Wimbledon you aren't paying the extra lump to enter Zone 1.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 08 November, 2010, 04:40:51 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 08 November, 2010, 04:15:54 pm
I thought everyone carried a chain tool?  I mean, except the clowns that don't carry a repair kit either.   :o

I carry a multi-tool, which includes a chainbreaker. I've only had to use it once, but I was very glad I had it - I was 20 miles from home at the time, and the nearest station was several miles away. Never leave home without it now.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 08 November, 2010, 04:46:02 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 08 November, 2010, 03:38:11 pm
Cycling in the rain has its charms.

Indeed. But cold rain driven by a howling gale across the arable wasteland of Norfolk in the dark, has fewer.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 08 November, 2010, 05:36:42 pm
Greenbank, just for additional amusement, since I normally use the tube to and from Wimbledon, I hit the cap on fairs, so the return amount isn't quite as much as the outgoing amount.  Using normal Railway, or London Overground for one direction, I won't hit that cap!

I suspect that trying to do it as cheaply, and as fast as possible is one of these situations not worth looking into too carefully, unless your doing it every day.

Also, part of the reason I was using Public Transport was to avoid having to walk any further than I had to, since I'm feeling a bit off colour, so that would have dissuaded me walking from West Brompton (although arguably actually less than the total distance I walk eventually).

Another relatively easy solution would have been to walk to Wimbledon Park from Wimbledon, since only that very last part of the District Line was buggered.  On reflection that would probably have been faster than the route I eventually used, but hindsight is a wonderful thing!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 08 November, 2010, 06:17:49 pm
Quote from: Regulator on 08 November, 2010, 04:13:37 pm
Since the incident at Mildenhall...

Was that an incident involving nakedness, a tree, and a very long chain?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 08 November, 2010, 07:10:41 pm
It was gruesome this morning.  At one point I had a crosswind of about 50mph, I could hardly breathe and my left cheek was painful with the cold and with the grapeshot raindrops hitting it.  On the plus side, it was a tailwind some of the way in and the wind had died completely by hometime.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 08 November, 2010, 07:25:13 pm
I walked, because today was a day 'off' so I was delivering both cubs to school.  And nearly died of heart failure when I saw one of the cub's mates ride up the left hand side of a (stopped, but at the front of the queue) left turning bus.

I think I need to tell his mum to tell him about blind spots.  And possibly have a word at school (where they've been doing a big push on walk to school and ride to school) to make sure that the kids who ride understand about undertaking, in particular on corners, being a very bad thing.  There's a bus going left round that corner at least once every ten minutes.  It's the third time I've seen a kid do this to a bus on that corner - and the fact that there's a bike path from just ahead of the tricky spot encourages them to.  Each time it felt like the world stopped for a minute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 08 November, 2010, 07:37:11 pm
A big thank you to the person who came past me going up Peckham Rye and then slowed down almost immediately so that I could just sit happily on their wheel all the way up that rise.  That was so kind. You made my ride up that slope so much easier, especially as there was a slight headwind which, once you placed yourself, so kindly, directly in front  of me, I didn't notice at all.  My apologies for not waiting for you near the top where it kicks up just a little-  you were getting slower and slower and as I only have one gear, there is a limit to how slow I can go up hills without stopping.  Maybe we can meet up again, same place, same time tomorrow.  Every little helps.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 08 November, 2010, 07:42:42 pm
Quote from: TimO on 08 November, 2010, 05:36:42 pm
I suspect that trying to do it as cheaply, and as fast as possible is one of these situations not worth looking into too carefully, unless your doing it every day.

If you're doing it every day then the appropriate season ticket will almost certainly be cheaper and probably be valid whichever route you decided to take (although there was a site somewhere that would factor in your holiday entitlement and work out whether it was still cheaper to go Oyster Pre-Pay or not). It's worth doing if you only do it occasionally (I don't cycle about once or twice a week), then it's worth looking at the possibilities. The difference soon adds up over a year. £2 a day doesn't look like much, but it's £100 a year if that's once a week. That can go towards some nice shiny things...

I can do my commute in to work for (almost) free, but it would take me 2 hours (1 hour if I got my arse in gear and ran). Or I can cycle and it'll take me 30 minutes (but not quite as free given that bike bits wear out and cycling is more costly than an occasional pair of trainers if I was walking/running). That also requires a shower at the end of the journey (luckily we have them at work) that adds 15 minutes to the journey.

Next slowest, and next cheapest, is to walk 2 miles (half an hour) and then get a single bus (60 mins), so £2.40 a day (£1.20 oyster bus fare).

Or I can get two buses which will take about 80 minutes, but cost a bit more (daily bus price cap at £3.90), but no more than 10 mins walking required.

The train is 18 minutes (plus a 10 minute walk either end) for £2.10 (£4.20 a day), which is about the best deal going.

(The Tube is £2.30 and takes much longer than the train.)

Anyway, back on the bike tomorrow, with an extended evening commute to pick up the Weeride from Hatler. Wednesday will be the debut for taking Baby GB in to nursery on the bike!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 08 November, 2010, 09:03:04 pm
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 08 November, 2010, 06:17:49 pm
Quote from: Regulator on 08 November, 2010, 04:13:37 pm
Since the incident at Mildenhall...

Was that an incident involving nakedness, a tree, and a very long chain?

Not much in the way of nakedness (if nothing else, we were covered in oil), and the lovely Priscilla played the part of the tree, but you're right about the chain.


If we're keeping count, I carry a multi-tool with a chain thinger on it.  Which for some inexplicable reason lacks the second notch needed for loosening off stiff links (fine for me, as I have some spare powerlinks to join the chain with, so I only need to break it at the roadside).  Consequently I sometimes carry a second, proper, chain tool if I'm riding in a group with less-equipped cyclists who are likely not to have 9-speed drivetrains.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 November, 2010, 09:46:00 pm
On the commute this evening, I unexpectedly rode up behind a cyclist I recognised as a forumite from her yacf buff.

Actually, I probably recognised her from the fact she lives with me :-*

Unexpected surprise, because she'd set off from work same time as me, so I thought she'd be home first.  But she'd added a loop, so we ended up riding the last bit home together. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 08 November, 2010, 09:47:42 pm
4th commuting day in a row with a gale and heavy rain on the tops....
Only today it was sleet instead of rain. Chilly.
Have spent the evening (Nic)washing and (Nic)waxing everything in sight....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 08 November, 2010, 10:12:18 pm
Well that was truly grueling. Write 50 times: "I must not ride to work without overshoes".  What does it mean when totally numb feet start hurting when you get in the shower, then develop black patches surrounded by red?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 08 November, 2010, 10:13:10 pm
It was tipping it down on the way it. Mrs Dan rode the bike in  :-* ... but I still got quite wet walking from the car park.  :facepalm:
It was cool and dry on the way home, and I was feeling good and going well (and burning off cross with myself ness).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 08 November, 2010, 10:16:55 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 08 November, 2010, 10:12:18 pm
  What does it mean when totally numb feet start hurting when you get in the shower, then develop black patches surrounded by red?

bubonic plague,mebbe
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 08 November, 2010, 10:30:11 pm
Brutal ride in, facing  35kph headwind. Bits I coast down at at >40kph, I had to pedal down to hit 25kph. Way home was better, albeit it was a bit of a sidewind. However, the dark, rain and slippery surface conspired to make me hesitant to really push on. I suspect as we get deeper into the season I'll be less nervous. However, the imminent addition of a 60 lux Cyo to my existing 2 x 40 lux Ixons will be a big help.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 08 November, 2010, 10:55:23 pm
I had a visit - first for months - on the way home. Rear wheel punctures are annoying on fixed though I seem to be getting better at setting the chain tension quickly. A nice motorist stopped to ask if I wad ok.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 08 November, 2010, 10:58:06 pm
The last week has been really idiot-intense.  Honestly, if you don't know how to use your indicators, or appreciate that red (and amber!) lights mean "stop", or feel the need to be awake when driving, then you really shouldn't be behind the wheel.

Frustrated of Darlington.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 08 November, 2010, 11:14:55 pm
Today was my first SMIDSY of the season. Heading down to the hospital for a course that started at 9 (I was borderline late) Clear road, big silver w*nkp*nz*r thingy just turns right across in front of me. Almost. I have both brakes on, knobblies fighting for grip as I execute what is most closely related to one of theose skid stop thingys in skiing. Both wheels sliding - ho hum. Anyhow, I had managed to get a suitable rendition of 'Arrrggghhhh! Next time look!' that alerted all the nearby peds (including the school crossing patrol) to my predicament. I was surprisingly eloquent "I really do not appreciate you trying to knock me off my bike and would be grateful if you would look where you are going". (verbatim - there were small children around which precluded a translation into Lochee vernacular).

response: "get a car- you'd be easier to see!". I've got a car. If I had been driving my car and he pulled that stunt then he would have been going nowhere.

..d
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 09 November, 2010, 07:25:04 am
I smiled all the way to work yesterday on my first fixed ride, ever.
It was very dark and I quickly learnt not to try and stand up to avoid tree debris and free-wheel  ;D
I tried 3 times in the first mile of 12.
Clicking in while pedalling is new too as I traditionally pushed down but that is different when your foot is being pushed up towards you  ;D
My gearing was fine but I was not tired when I got to work.
I made it up my big hill fine.
I did not completely let go on the way down, well not from the top anyway.
As I said, I smiled all the way to work.

Converted I am.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 09 November, 2010, 07:35:41 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 08 November, 2010, 10:12:18 pm
Well that was truly grueling. Write 50 times: "I must not ride to work without overshoes".  What does it mean when totally numb feet start hurting when you get in the shower, then develop black patches surrounded by red?

The symptoms you describe are those of frostbite...

...either that or the dye from your shoes has run.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 09 November, 2010, 08:06:58 am
Quote from: rogerzilla on 08 November, 2010, 07:10:41 pm
It was gruesome this morning.  At one point I had a crosswind of about 50mph, I could hardly breathe and my left cheek was painful with the cold and with the grapeshot raindrops hitting it.  On the plus side, it was a tailwind some of the way in and the wind had died completely by hometime.
What time did you go to work y'day?  Leaving home (which is only 12 or so miles N. of Swindon) at 0630 it was no windier than usual and not terribly wet either.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 09 November, 2010, 09:10:54 am
Bah!  Serious bout of CBA this morning.  In spite of today's weather being much better than yesterday's, I left the bike at home and caught the Tube — all the way in.  Didn't even get off early to walk or grab a BorisBike.  :(
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 November, 2010, 09:22:44 am
Bad Andrij! >:(

Hope you're back on the bike tomorrow ;)

It was a bit of a headwind this morning, but not too wet.  Barely any rain at all, in fact. 

I'd changed back to fixed, to see what I could manage with it.  Coped OK, and the speed was decent, but I wouldn't have liked more, longer or steeper rises on my route.

Should be a decent tailwind home, though, which is nice. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 09 November, 2010, 09:25:23 am
Almost had a head on with another cyclist on a cycle path. Wasn't paying attention until they shouted 'oi!' and I corrected.  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 09 November, 2010, 09:27:13 am
A tough ride in this morning, with a headwind all the way.  At least there was no rain (that's coming later apparently).

Quote from: clarion on 09 November, 2010, 09:22:44 am
...
Should be a decent tailwind home, though, which is nice. :)

Don't be daft.  The anti-cycling God of Wind will ensure that it changes direction just as we set off home... :(

 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 09 November, 2010, 09:33:44 am
Expected to get soaked on the way in, remained dry.

Extended commute tonight to pick up the Weeride child seat from Hatler. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 09 November, 2010, 09:41:58 am
Quote from: Grub on 09 November, 2010, 07:25:04 am

As I said, I smiled all the way to work.

Converted I am.

Great, isn't it?  :)  Riding fixed puts such a smile on my face, I know.

And wow!  There's nothing like messing up the configuration of your bike to teach you to appreciate it when you get it right, again.  Back to spending 90% of the time on the drops and the bike feels like it was tailored for me.  Mmmmmm.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Zipperhead on 09 November, 2010, 10:04:16 am
Going home last night, an arse waving red light jumper went straight through the red light where Bridge Street meets Parliament Square. When the lights changed the motorcycle cop who had patiently been waiting for the lights to change caught him up and stopped him for a little chat!

This morning coming up to one junction a guy on a scooter decided that red lights didn't apply to him and came straight out of the road on the left at the same time as the impatient bastard coming the other way decided that sitting in traffic was not for him and ignored the the no right turn sign to turn right across me. Somehow I avoided them both.

Further on I caught up with a very pretty blonde lady (who was keeping up a decent speed).

Me: "Excuse me...."

[she takes earphone out]

Me: "I hope you don't mind me saying... "

She: "Oh, are my tights see through?"

Me: "See through? You're wearing a red thong!"

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 November, 2010, 10:05:27 am
*changes commute to Z's route*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 09 November, 2010, 10:29:32 am
Quote from: Zipperhead on 09 November, 2010, 10:04:16 am
... When the lights changed the motorcycle cop who had patiently been waiting for the lights to change caught him up and stopped him for a little chat!

Yay. :thumbsup:

Also, can I join Clarion and you, on your commute as well please? ;D

I'm not doing well on the cycle commuting this week.  Yesterday I wimped out due to weather and slight lurgy, today I'm staying in, waiting for a delivery. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 09 November, 2010, 10:39:09 am
Quote from: Zipperhead on 09 November, 2010, 10:04:16 am

She: "Oh, are my tights see through?"

Me: "See through? You're wearing a red thong!"



(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4032/5160455617_6c020c7f23_z.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 09 November, 2010, 11:30:10 am
^  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 09 November, 2010, 05:38:47 pm
Quote from: TimO on 09 November, 2010, 10:29:32 am
Quote from: Zipperhead on 09 November, 2010, 10:04:16 am
... When the lights changed the motorcycle cop who had patiently been waiting for the lights to change caught him up and stopped him for a little chat!

Yay. :thumbsup:

 ::-)

Where were the police in Bromley last night?

At about 7pm, I was turning right at a T-junction, when I was almost taken out by some twat coming from the right and heading straight on. (I had a green to turn right; traffic from the right had a green to turn left but a red for straight on.)

It wasn't even a case of amber-gambling - I guess he just decided he'd been sitting there long enough. Not expecting any cars coming from that direction, I didn't even see him until he breezed past my back wheel with millimetres to spare. Had I been ever so slightly slower away from the lights, I wouldn't have known what hit me.

Nor would he have known what he'd hit. When I realised there was a rapidly accelerating car approaching me, I glanced round and saw that the driver was too busy reading a map to look where he was going.  :facepalm:

So, OK, while I disapprove of cyclists breaking the law, I can't share your enthusiasm for an RLJing cyclist getting collared when there's this kind of shit going on elsewhere and going unpunished. And it's not as if it's a rare ocurrence. At least RLJing cyclists aren't likely to kill other road users.

 >:(

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Zipperhead on 09 November, 2010, 06:06:02 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 09 November, 2010, 05:38:47 pm
So, OK, while I disapprove of cyclists breaking the law, I can't share your enthusiasm for an RLJing cyclist getting collared when there's this kind of shit going on elsewhere and going unpunished. And it's not as if it's a rare ocurrence. At least RLJing cyclists aren't likely to kill other road users.

I've twice been taken out by RLJ'ing cyclists. The first time injured my back and later that day I found my forks had been damaged, the second one broke his arm (fortunately the expensive dental work that I had just had was unscathed).

The arse waving red light jumper above had already gone across a pedestrian island, weaving amongst the pedestrians just so that he could get ahead of everything else.

I do agree that cyclist present a much lower risk to others than motorised transport, not nil risk though.

Anyway, back to thongs...

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 09 November, 2010, 06:11:00 pm
Quote from: Zipperhead on 09 November, 2010, 06:06:02 pm


Anyway, back to thongs...



Which can cause traffic accidents of their own, quite easily ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 November, 2010, 08:27:43 pm
Quote from: Regulator on 09 November, 2010, 09:27:13 am
Quote from: clarion on 09 November, 2010, 09:22:44 am
...
Should be a decent tailwind home, though, which is nice. :)

Don't be daft.  The anti-cycling God of Wind will ensure that it changes direction just as we set off home... :(

 ;D

:smug:

That was a cracking ride :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 09 November, 2010, 08:58:38 pm
Flew down to Wimbledon from SE1. Not so fast coming back to Putney, including riding up Edge Hill which is nice with a 30x29 lowest gear (rather than on fixed).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 09 November, 2010, 10:00:10 pm
Quote from: Grub on 09 November, 2010, 07:25:04 am
Converted I am.

Contagious innit?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: darkpoint on 10 November, 2010, 09:08:58 am
First ever commute on a Brompton this morning.   Which made things interesting.

I failed to maintain road dominance twice which resulted in two quite close overtakes.
the lack of spds resulted in some very odd moments as I tried to quickly pull away at lights..  and the random gear spacing just seemed odd..

Other than that and the ages i wasted this morning trying to fit lights and  failing to fit my Carradice, it was great.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 November, 2010, 09:39:22 am
Really good ride.  I planned to do a loop near work to add some extra miles in.

My rear wheel had other plans.  Near Stockwell, I heard another spoke crack. >:(

That's four now. >:(

But, even with stopping to remove the broken spoke, and adjust the brakes (the rim isn't a Chrina or a Mavic, so warps when one spoke is gone), I still got a decent average speed :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: origamist on 10 November, 2010, 10:13:20 am
Quote from: clarion on 09 November, 2010, 08:27:43 pm
Quote from: Regulator on 09 November, 2010, 09:27:13 am
Quote from: clarion on 09 November, 2010, 09:22:44 am
...
Should be a decent tailwind home, though, which is nice. :)

Don't be daft.  The anti-cycling God of Wind will ensure that it changes direction just as we set off home... :(

 ;D

:smug:

That was a cracking ride :thumbsup:

That was some tail-wind last night, Clarion. I was spinning at 125 - 150 rpm between Stockwell and Tooting Broadway...

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 10 November, 2010, 10:45:55 am
Quote from: clarion on 09 November, 2010, 09:22:44 am
Bad Andrij! >:(

Hope you're back on the bike tomorrow ;)


Yep, back on the bike today.  Through a combination of leaving later than planned, and continued frustration courtesy of my fellow road users I again took the quiet route in.  Better a slower, more convoluted ride than no ride at all.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 November, 2010, 10:47:08 am
Glad it worked out for you.  Now, no backsliding, mate :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 10 November, 2010, 10:48:08 am
Quote from: clarion on 09 November, 2010, 08:27:43 pm
Quote from: Regulator on 09 November, 2010, 09:27:13 am
Quote from: clarion on 09 November, 2010, 09:22:44 am
...
Should be a decent tailwind home, though, which is nice. :)

Don't be daft.  The anti-cycling God of Wind will ensure that it changes direction just as we set off home... :(

 ;D

:smug:

That was a cracking ride :thumbsup:

Jammy git...  >:(

The wind changed here - and I had a headwind all the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 10 November, 2010, 10:51:46 am
Quote from: clarion on 10 November, 2010, 10:47:08 am
Glad it worked out for you.  Now, no backsliding, mate :)

Can't afford to backslide.  I have holiday coming up: two weeks of eating and drinking with family and friends, but no cycling to work it off.  I thought my brother had bought an exercise bike, but I've learned he has a treadmill.  I may have to resort to *cough*jogging*cough*.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 10 November, 2010, 12:25:22 pm
Had a good ride up to Reading Uni this morning; cold and crisp but bright and dry. First morning of having a buff over my ears!

The only incident of note was the dozy woman who, when I'd indicated right and moved over to the right to turn at a mini roundabout decided that she absolutely HAD to overtake me with less than 50m to go before the little island that separates traffic entering and leaving the island - so she went into the opposite lane and cut across my front end to get back in time.  ???

Ended up doing about 45km before getting back home to start work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 10 November, 2010, 12:48:32 pm
It was the first time this year I thought if might be time to switch to full fingers gloves.  My fingers soon warmed up so mitts were ok. Overall a very nice ride in this morning with the clear blue skies and sunshine. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 10 November, 2010, 01:24:18 pm
Windy (in your face stylee) on the way home last night, but at least it was dry.

Bright but chilly on the way in late this morning. I decided to take a slightly shorter route, but one that took in a short but intense climb (up towards Cliveden from Bourne End). Just under 32 minutes for an 8.75 mile ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: geoff on 10 November, 2010, 02:13:23 pm
Heaving around a bend on a busy country road today, I found a Ford Fiesta broken down, just after the apex of the bend, half-out in the road. Driver was a plump, charming middle-aged lady, frantically dialling into her mobile phone. So I stopped and walked back and chatted. It was freezing outside so I thought better of proposing she wait on the verge. She had an apparently failed clutch and:


Luckily (or not!) it was a flat road. So I heaved and puffed away to push her out of danger to the nearest stopping place, at 2 mph for 400yds, overtaken, to my amazement, by dozens of cars, lorries vans.

The only other person who came and lent a hand was another cyclist ( a colleague, who commutes into the same site actually).

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 10 November, 2010, 02:46:43 pm
Quote from: geoff on 10 November, 2010, 02:13:23 pm
Luckily (or not!) it was a flat road. So I heaved and puffed away to push her out of danger to the nearest stopping place, at 2 mph for 400yds, overtaken, to my amazement, by dozens of cars, lorries vans.

The only other person who came and lent a hand was another cyclist ( a colleague, who commutes into the same site actually).

Yeah, that happens pretty much every time I stop and help push a broken down car.  Sad, isn't it?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 10 November, 2010, 02:50:29 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 10 November, 2010, 02:46:43 pm
Quote from: geoff on 10 November, 2010, 02:13:23 pm
Luckily (or not!) it was a flat road. So I heaved and puffed away to push her out of danger to the nearest stopping place, at 2 mph for 400yds, overtaken, to my amazement, by dozens of cars, lorries vans.

The only other person who came and lent a hand was another cyclist ( a colleague, who commutes into the same site actually).

Yeah, that happens pretty much every time I stop and help push a broken down car.  Sad, isn't it?

+1

Me too
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 November, 2010, 03:20:57 pm
Yup.  Not unusual.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 10 November, 2010, 03:34:07 pm
Oh yes. In fact, what is more usual is to get abuse from the drivers who are failing to stop and help, as you are slowing them down  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 10 November, 2010, 03:37:27 pm
Quote from: MattH on 10 November, 2010, 03:34:07 pm
Oh yes. In fact, what is more usual is to get abuse from the drivers who are failing to stop and help, as you are slowing them down  ::-)

All too often in Richmond Park you see the owners of broken down cars receiving abuse from cyclists for "blocking the road" rather than any offers of help or checks to see if all is ok.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 10 November, 2010, 03:38:48 pm
Definitely the alternative route for my commute home tonight.

a) I usually go past Millbank Tower.
b) Chelsea are at home to Fulham.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 November, 2010, 03:42:27 pm
A couple of days ago, I saw a rider in full club kit running straight through a red light.

It was...




...can you guess?...







...no, actually, Dulwich Paragon.

But I did see an asshole in London Dynamo kit this morning.  I must let them know.  I promised another of their members I would.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 10 November, 2010, 03:57:57 pm
In fairness to the Dynamo, I know that their membership secretary does deal with RLJing complaints about members in kit.  Get photo/video, and I'm sure he'll deal with it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 November, 2010, 03:59:05 pm
Christ, he must be busy!  They're terrible for it.


I don't have a camera.  But I will report it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 10 November, 2010, 04:47:17 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 10 November, 2010, 02:46:43 pm
Quote from: geoff on 10 November, 2010, 02:13:23 pm
... The only other person who came and lent a hand was another cyclist ( a colleague, who commutes into the same site actually).
Yeah, that happens pretty much every time I stop and help push a broken down car.  Sad, isn't it?

A few years ago, a car had a problem immediately in front of an Ambulance on blue lights at the Wandsworth roundabout.  As you say, it was me and another cyclists who stopped and pushed it out of the way. :-\

I saw a chap cleaning the top floor windows of the Lister Hospital hospital using one of those squeedgee on a pole things.  That wouldn't be unusual, except that the top floor is five floors up.  It was a very long pole!

In the theme of RLJing, going down Cedar's Road, five other cyclist shot through the new pedestrian crossing on red.  I was particularly impressed how they could see through the bus that was stopped behind me. :-\ >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 November, 2010, 04:51:58 pm
At Tooting Bec this morning, there were three clear red light jumpers each way across the A24.  All were motorised.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 10 November, 2010, 04:53:41 pm
Why on earth would any smug driver lower themselves to stepping out of their vehicle to help someone who is so obviously driving an inferior vehicle (ie one that's broken down) ?  Not in their mind set.

Back on topic, I managed an unusual double-draft to work.

1  Bus maxing out at 42mph from Kingston Bridge to Hampton Court (I really had to push hard to catch his tail).

2  Tesco truck ambling along at a somewhat more comfortable 35mph from Hampton Court to Kempton Park race track.

Glorious.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 10 November, 2010, 05:30:34 pm
Damned cold at 6.30. Wished I had put on full finger goves :-(

Was waiting at a red light in Deptford when a voice behind said "excuse me".  Looked around expecting to have a fault pointed out only to have a guy squeeze past me and ride straight across a six lane intersection. I guess he may be a POD but at least he has good manners.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 10 November, 2010, 09:07:12 pm
SW London was utterly gridlocked. My 25 minute commute took 37 minutes.

I avoided Millbank but crossed back over Vauxhall Bridge. Grosvenor Road and Chelsea Embankment was solid with coaches. Ducked down Lots Road and escaped round the back roads.

Luckily I'd left work slightly earlier so I wasn't late at the nursery to collect Baby GB.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 10 November, 2010, 09:36:26 pm
had a close call today.. i was going at about 25kph, saw the cab in front that picked up a passenger. the cab driver indicated the right turn signal as they nearly always do before they start moving. i got to the middle of the road so i could overtake him while he accelerates. but, instead of going straight, he started turning around just in front of me >:(. i had bright 3w led on, so no problem with being seen. i braked hard the last second (thanks to good brakes) and went around him on the inside. my heart was beating twice as fast after this. next time i'll be prepared to brake if i see something similar. cabbies are usually quite good, and in 4 years of commuting i didn't have much trouble with them, maybe that's why i was caught unaware..
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 November, 2010, 10:15:17 pm
Gridlock from Elephant & Castle to Balham.

Then remarkably quiet roads.

Weird.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 10 November, 2010, 10:22:50 pm
Nothing too exceptional this evening, but it was a bit nippy.  The home thermometer says 2.2°C.  I may have to dig out some gloves if it stays like this.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 10 November, 2010, 10:49:47 pm
Yeah major gridlock tonight on the way in.  Love it!!  Much clearer on the way home though, and the coldest ride of this autumn so far.  Brrrrr!

My new Bont cycling shoes are the business, if a little too well ventilated for tonight's temperatures.  It's probably psychological but I was 2kph up on tonight's average speed for the round trip.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 11 November, 2010, 07:29:54 am
*insert profanity*

My back hurts.  I should have realised the extent while getting the bike down the stairs.  Stupid, stubborn Andrij!  >:(

Struggled to maintain 20kph, any road imperfections were painful, so turned around and came home.  I think that may have been the worst 1.9km of my life.

Looks like I'm working from home today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 11 November, 2010, 07:45:29 am
Oooh bummer dude.  Hope you GWS.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 11 November, 2010, 07:59:19 am
0o yesterday morning, 12o this morning. I preferred yesterday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 11 November, 2010, 08:34:03 am
Tailwinds FTW :thumbsup:

Wonder if it'll last if I start a Great Circle ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 November, 2010, 08:59:20 am
Tailwind(ish) here, which certainly helped.  Gusty, mind.  Less rain than I expected, and much more fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 11 November, 2010, 09:08:13 am
Any cycle-commuter who lives south of where they work should have been well early for work this morning :).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 11 November, 2010, 09:15:31 am
Quote from: clarion on 11 November, 2010, 08:59:20 am
Tailwind(ish) here, which certainly helped.  Gusty, mind.  Less rain than I expected, and much more fun.

I'll echo that.  Only it was a stiff crosswind for parts of my commute; would have been blown sideways into a car on Kensington High Street if I hadn't been alert.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 November, 2010, 09:17:08 am
OK, tailwind(ish) does mean it was a crosswind pretty much all the way, but fairly well behind side on for most of it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 11 November, 2010, 09:32:53 am
Bit of a wet one

Lime green Peugeot over takes in the 20mph zone near the school, breaking the speed limit as he does.  Then he has to stop in front of me as a recycling truck maneuvers in front of us both.  I slip past him and the truck first of course and then he breaks the speed limit/over takes again.  Then I finally loose him at the mini roundabout where I pass the queued back traffic
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 11 November, 2010, 09:45:46 am
It was wet. Not very wet, just wet and a bit miserable. Coffee should improve things.

..d
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 11 November, 2010, 10:00:10 am
Was one of a group nearly taken out by an idiot Central Buses driver who pulled out from a bay in Bermondsey without bothering with any of that mirror and signal nonsense. I swung out and got squeezed between him and a van in the right hand lane and I could hear a fair bit of swearing and cursing behind me from other cyclists. Tried to engage the driver in conversation at the next lights but he was having none of it.

Apart from that, even with the crosswind, it was a pleasant ride in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 11 November, 2010, 10:08:35 am
Gusty Head wind  :-\ I hope it stays till the ride home.

Damp, and dull, the IQ Fly sensor decided to be on the whole way in from 8:30 till 9!!

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 11 November, 2010, 10:15:20 am
A bit choppy on the way in this morning, but nothing unbearable.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 11 November, 2010, 10:18:35 am
Quote from: clarion on 10 November, 2010, 10:15:17 pm
Gridlock from Elephant & Castle to Balham.

Then remarkably quiet roads.

Weird.

Be scared, it's the deepening Elephant and Castle gravity well beginning to suck in surrounding traffic. It's only a matter of time until it goes critical and turns into a black hole from which nothing can escape.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 11 November, 2010, 11:00:50 am
Like others, a bit of a tailwind, with gusts.  The trouble with the wet'n'windy days, is that you can't really take advantage of the speed that the tailwind gives you, because the wet (and en-chutnied) roads are too slippery to risk having to try and stop fast.  With London traffic, I'll reckon on a couple of hard stops every journey, and with wet rim brakes that just doesn't work very well.  I must get the commuter built up with it's disc brakes. :-\

There seemed to be an outbreak of indicator failure in South London today, as well.  Apparently wet weather makes the use of left turning indicators optional after overtaking cyclists. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 11 November, 2010, 11:24:29 am
Last nights ride home was so cold that my man bits were a) in agony and b) AWOL when I tried to find them to warm them up ;D

As for this morning, all you folk riding North this morning and experiencing a tail wind or crosswind from rear quarters can thank me. This morning was my last commute to work for some time (at least till I get settled in the new job and find a parking space to leave the car overnight) so the Commuting Gods gave me a wet headwind for my ride generaly South this morning. Those of you heading South this evening should be OK as I will be heading North ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 11 November, 2010, 11:33:45 am
Quote from: fuzzy on 11 November, 2010, 11:24:29 am
b) AWOL when I tried to find them to warm them up ;D

Nothing a bit of vigorous rubbing won't cure. ;)

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 November, 2010, 11:34:27 am
Get a grown up to help you with that one.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 11 November, 2010, 11:36:23 am
Quote from: citoyen on 11 November, 2010, 11:33:45 am
Quote from: fuzzy on 11 November, 2010, 11:24:29 am
b) AWOL when I tried to find them to warm them up ;D

Nothing a bit of vigorous rubbing won't cure. ;)

d.

Quote from: clarion on 11 November, 2010, 11:34:27 am
Get a grown up to help you with that one.


She said no, rolled over and went back to sleep :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 11 November, 2010, 11:37:15 am
Quote from: fuzzy on 11 November, 2010, 11:24:29 am
...the Commuting Gods gave me a wet headwind for my ride generaly South this morning. Those of you heading South this evening should be OK as I will be heading North ::-)
Well that's me stuffed either way then; my  route is east / west.  Any chance you could take an east-bound route home tonight? :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 11 November, 2010, 11:50:34 am
Quote from: TheLurker on 11 November, 2010, 11:37:15 am
Quote from: fuzzy on 11 November, 2010, 11:24:29 am
...the Commuting Gods gave me a wet headwind for my ride generaly South this morning. Those of you heading South this evening should be OK as I will be heading North ::-)
Well that's me stuffed either way then; my  route is east / west.  Any chance you could take an east-bound route home tonight? :)

It depends where you are, see
Wind Map - Britain Observations (http://www.xcweather.co.uk/)

around London, to the east there is a southerly wind.  To the west there is a westerly with a southerly component

In the South West where I am there is a south-westerly

Latest observations from Leeds show a definite westerly but in Bridlington, not far away there is a definite southerly

Generally the further east you are the more the wind is southerly and the further west you are the more the wind is westerly
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 11 November, 2010, 01:21:07 pm
Quote from: TimO on 10 November, 2010, 04:47:17 pm
A few years ago, a car had a problem immediately in front of an Ambulance on blue lights at the Wandsworth roundabout.  As you say, it was me and another cyclists who stopped and pushed it out of the way. :-\

Somewhat off topic, but I was one of a team of 3 cyclists, several squaddies and a Salvation Army Band who pushed a dead Green Goddess trying to get to a fire in Bedford during the fireman's strike of 197x (?). Not a single car stopped to help even though we pushed it the best part of 2 miles with it's blue light going and some joker ringing the hand bell. By the time we eventually got there the fire had sort of burnt itself out  :( I must admit to being lathered. However I was in a much better state than the Sally army tuba player who we thought was going to have a heart attack...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 11 November, 2010, 03:51:49 pm
Quote from: vorsprung on 11 November, 2010, 11:50:34 am
It depends where you are, see
Wind Map - Britain Observations (http://www.xcweather.co.uk/)

around London, to the east there is a southerly wind.  To the west there is a westerly with a southerly component

In the South West where I am there is a south-westerly

Latest observations from Leeds show a definite westerly but in Bridlington, not far away there is a definite southerly

Generally the further east you are the more the wind is southerly and the further west you are the more the wind is westerly

If you look at the Met Office rain radar, that's not so at the moment.  It seems XCWeather is slightly wrong.  Wind is currently between westerly and WNW.  Looking out the window here at Biggin Hill confirms the metoffice rain radar observations, and not XC Weather's.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonBuoy on 11 November, 2010, 06:04:21 pm
XCweather shows surface wind.  Rainfall radar shows wind at height (not sure what height, but rain height).  They are different.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 11 November, 2010, 06:20:40 pm
Quote from: JonBuoy on 11 November, 2010, 06:04:21 pm
XCweather shows surface wind.  Rainfall radar shows wind at height (not sure what height, but rain height).  They are different.

Not always, and usually not by much in the few thousand feet agl that rain is mostly found in.  In this case surface wind is agreeing with Met Office.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 November, 2010, 07:56:02 pm
Wind.

There was wind.

Then there was some more.

I stopped to help a posho who needed to pump his tyres up.

Then there was a lot more wind.

I'm sure there was wind.

A lot of it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 11 November, 2010, 09:29:27 pm
Tailwind FTW bis :thumbsup:

Quote from: fuzzy on 11 November, 2010, 11:24:29 am
As for this morning, all you folk riding North this morning and experiencing a tail wind or crosswind from rear quarters can thank me. This morning was my last commute to work for some time (at least till I get settled in the new job and find a parking space to leave the car overnight) so the Commuting Gods gave me a wet headwind for my ride generaly South this morning. Those of you heading South this evening should be OK as I will be heading North ::-)
Keep up the good work, Fuzzy; you can ride same day anytime ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 11 November, 2010, 09:53:56 pm
After working and commuting between 3 different libraries today, my ride home was full of lovely tailwindedness  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 11 November, 2010, 10:14:15 pm
Yes wind, wind, wind.  The 60mph winds were blowing from West to East.  Bridgend and Cardiff are on the same latitude so pedaling was easy. I think it would only be fair if the wind turned round and blows the other way tomorrow morning to keep things balanced  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 11 November, 2010, 10:34:29 pm
Well, I'm just about to leave the office and get changed. I'll soon discover if the Gods are crapping on me or if they have decided to be forgiving.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 11 November, 2010, 10:45:39 pm
I think the winds swung round to the west so you are going to be fighting a cross wind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 11 November, 2010, 11:22:19 pm
Should have ridden all the way home tonight - probably would have set some kind of speed record. I did my usual ride to Bromley instead, mostly in a southerly direction, so it was slow going. The last bit home from the station was directly into the wind and very slow going.

Not all that cold though - I felt somewhat overdressed in full winter garb.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 11 November, 2010, 11:49:28 pm
Tailwind assisted acceleration from level crossing. Took the car behind about 1/4 - 1/2 mile to catch up. 45kph for that distance on fixed ruined me though.  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 12 November, 2010, 01:54:11 am
A bit of a headwind, and very gusty.  A couple of times almost lethally so, very very strong side winds, both right next to tall modern residential developments, the new buildings near Chelsea Bridge on Queenstown Road, and on London Road in Croydon.  Fecking Architects who don't seem to have a clue about the effects that their monstrous building will have on any poor sods who are trying to cycle past them. >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 12 November, 2010, 06:14:47 am
I think it's going to be a windy one.... and I bet not blowing from behind me :-(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 12 November, 2010, 07:10:12 am
Well I had a cross wind yesterday, in fact I'd say it was bloody furious.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cpjmathieson on 12 November, 2010, 07:16:43 am
I was cycling to work on Wednesday, I had just crossed the A12 and took a glance behind me as cars have a habit of overtaking you and then turning left right in front of you. I looked back and there was a fat man strolling across the road ,I went to ride around the back of him. He then became aware of me and didn't know which way to go ,he ran back and forth, in the end I had no where to go and hit him straight on at about 15mph. My bike and I went sliding along the road. I got up and he was still standing , he asked if I was al-right and then just sodded off!!.... at least the bike seemed ok apart from some scuffs on the shifters  :demon:
I am now in pain with my shoulder and several bruises...what a way to start a day. Why cant these people wake up in the morning before they decide to start crossing roads!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 12 November, 2010, 08:02:44 am
Quote from: fuzzy on 11 November, 2010, 10:34:29 pm
Well, I'm just about to leave the office and get changed. I'll soon discover if the Gods are crapping on me or if they have decided to be forgiving.

I was in it up to my neck ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 12 November, 2010, 08:51:37 am
Quote from: Chris.M on 12 November, 2010, 07:16:43 am
I am now in pain with my shoulder and several bruises...what a way to start a day. Why cant these people wake up in the morning before they decide to start crossing roads!
Poor you- I had a similar thing happen to me on commute home yesterday- turning left from lights off Peckham High St- people always cross here without looking so I am generally alert to this- two young women chatting, step off the pavement without looking. They suddenly see me as I slow and anticipating their progress across the road, I alter my course so that I will carry on behind them without impeding their progress- one seems to have a bit of road sense and carries on crossing- the other stops dead- then moves back into my path- so I alter course again to go in front of her- she begins to walk forward again so I finally almost trackstand and let her go- we are both grinning (all this takes no more than a few seconds) as we realise it must look like some kind of bike/pedestrian twostep.  However, had it all gone wrong and I had ended up bruised and battered, I don't think I would have been so happy about it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 12 November, 2010, 08:56:08 am
I left home much later today- not teaching so no lessons to prepare, just a day of mindless paperwork and policy reviews for which I have been given some time out of class.  I thought I would meet loads of other cyclists and have merry banter at the lights- as opposed to my usual lonely commute on London's 6am streets.  Not so- only 4 other cyclists and they ignored my cheery hello.  Where are you all?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 12 November, 2010, 09:16:37 am
Quote from: jane on 12 November, 2010, 08:56:08 am
... Where are you all?

I'm still at home eating my breakfast and reading YACF!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 12 November, 2010, 09:24:17 am
Blimey, that was windy.  Fortunately for most of the way it was more-or-less behind me, but the first bit of the friday commute is fairly wiggly and those "round the corner, oh look the hedge stops, flat windbreak-free farmland as far as the eye can see" crosswind moments were interesting.  Shockingly, I got overtaken really considerately by many vehicles, including a several of white vans.  And a 'bip bip' thank you from the HGV driver, after I pulled into the first available driveway to let him (who had followed me nice and far back with no daftness) and a couple of cars pass on the stretch where you really don't want them to ignore the double white lines in the middle of the road but where they very frequently do.

Friday commute \o/
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 November, 2010, 09:34:42 am
Winter's started.

The roads weren't free of cyclists, but the fair weather folk have pretty much gone all of a sudden. 

I dunno.  23mph crosswind and they just give up.  Wimps ;D

Not completely a crosswind for me - it was strong enough that what there was behind me was a fair bit of push.  But my puny forearms and shoulders are aching a bit from resisting the gusty sideways shoving.

It's dropping quite fast now, so I shan't have too bad a headwind tonight.  Not like last night, which was tough.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 November, 2010, 09:37:43 am
I forgot to mention that there was a gurt big branch blown down near Hackbridge.  I'm glad that I wasn't near it when it came down, but it was poking out into the road.  No chance I could shift it, so I had to go on & leave it be.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 12 November, 2010, 10:41:34 am
Quote from: clarion on 12 November, 2010, 09:34:42 am
Winter's started.

The roads weren't free of cyclists, but the fair weather folk have pretty much gone all of a sudden. 

I dunno.  23mph crosswind and they just give up.  Wimps ;D


True.  The secure bike storage at my current workplace has been nearly empty all week.

I have to say that I (rather selfishly) appreciate roads with fewer idiot cyclists around.  The average road sense of those cyclists who persist in this weather seems much higher.  Even those nodders who are still out are of the stolid and predictable variety; easy to ride around.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 12 November, 2010, 11:24:16 am
I'd hardly say all the cyclists have given up, but I work at academia, so there are a lot of students who I suspect have no choice but to cycle.

Having said that, there are actually some spaces in the bike store today,rather than a couple of weeks back, when you had to squeeze your bike in anywhere you could find.

The wind wasn't too bad this morning, probably because it's more behind me than it was on the way home last night.  It's still pretty gusty though.  I did find that I overheated, since it's probably about the same temperature as last night, but without any water, I think it feels less cool.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 12 November, 2010, 06:22:11 pm
Probably the first day the year when I saw a big drop in cyclists in London - despite it being rather a decnet morning. Perhaps they knew more about the forecast than I did  ;D Thoroughly unpleasant ride home this evening. It would have been tolerable, albeit moist, if it had not been for the usual effect of rain on yer average London motorist.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 13 November, 2010, 06:17:37 pm
One more journey home and then that's the end of my first weeks commuting in quite a while. The roads of south London have become a far more hostile environment since I was last regularly cycling in, a month or so ago. I've been lucky with the weather; while others have been getting drenched and buffeted I seem to have been catching moments of calm between the squalls each time I go out. The problems have all been traffic based. The first two rides in took three times longer than usual - I'm fairly used to gridlock on my various routes, but the degree of pig-headedness, with drivers wedging their vehicles into the smallest gap to gain six inches forward movement, was stunning. On Tuesday I, and several other cyclists were stuck at one junction for three phases before we could escape. In free flowing traffic I've been suffering from some appalling and completely unnecessary close passes. I was literally launched off a speed cushion as I avoided the attentions of a speeding motorcyclist and I've had to be on my toes pretty much all week.
My commute today was mad. Within the first mile:
Squeeze
SMIDSY
Incoherent rage and horn blaring
Close pass
Closer pass
SMIDSY

Halfway up Crystal Palace Park Road the driver of a convertible Merc booted it as he came past. When I caught up with him at the top of the hill I got him to wind the passenger window down so that I could thank him for being the first person to leave anything like a decent amount of room as he passed.
I was in the process of turning to thank another driver earlier for holding back as I negotiated a line that kept me safely away from an expected SMIDSY (that materialized with the van's nose two feet beyond the edge of the cycle lane) only to find him and his passenger puce faced and spittling something about staying left. My gesture of thanks may have mutated into something else.
I could just shrug my shoulders and accept all this as part of urban cycling on a Saturday morning, but the thing is I was shit hot today. I saw everything before it developed, established eye contact with everyone prior to any conflict and had a route away from any danger. The only mistake I made was snatching the rear brake as I was SMIDSYed on a roundabout and finally losing my cool with a shout of "FUCKERS". In terms of keeping myself safe I feel quite impotent, my efforts as futile as attracting the attention of an HGV driver sitting behind me at lights texting (Wednesday).
On the positive side, riding home late at night or in the early hours has been a real pleasure. There seems to be a far more relaxed attitude amongst the taxis and private hires wending their way to the suburbs. There were far too many drivers with obviously compromised sobriety on Friday night but I was fortunate enough to be able to keep out of their way.
Another thing I discovered this morning is that the current layout at Elephant and Castle in non-rush hour traffic creates a particular danger. At the end of the Walworth Road as the traffic accumulates at the lights, buses and coaches approaching in the bus lane are deposited in the left turn lane. Nearly all the buses and coaches will turn right here. Any cyclist that positions themselves on the left hand side of the first right turn lane as they approach the lights at red, or positions themselves alongside other right turning traffic (a large proportion of which will be buses and lorries) will find a canyon of death assembles itself around them before the lights change. It could be particularly horrible as all the buses then start squabbling to get to the several stops that immediately follow on the left.

I shall e-mail TfL.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 13 November, 2010, 06:57:23 pm
Yeah, I'm feeling your pain, Ben.  Some incredibly stupid and aggressive driving in the last week or so, whereas before that I had weeks and weeks without a single noteworthy thing.

Tonight I ended up fending off the bonnet of a driver who thought they could safely fit their car through the pinchpoint next to me.  Oh, and a woman cut from the nearside to the offside lane on the Vauxhall gyratory, and then give me the pig-stupid ignore you stare.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 14 November, 2010, 01:20:06 am
We share some of the same roads I'm sure Wendy, and we've probably met the same ****s.

I might need to offer some apologies to the the drivers of Friday night (which you probably feel entitled to) on the basis of some of what I saw on the ride back this morning. You might not be drunk - you might be slavishly following your GPS. Well done. You're just as much of a danger, but who's going to do you for it?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 15 November, 2010, 08:32:44 am
Bum! Had to use the main road this morning.  Had a slidey "moment" on the back road about a mile into the ride and decided it wasn't worth pranging the cranky old grid (I heal cheaply - bikes cost).  Wouldn't normally expect to have to use the main road until Jan. or even Feb.  I hope this isn't an omen/harbinger/presentiment/premonition* of worse things to come. :(


*Choose the synonym that best fits your frame of mind.






Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Access Legal Guy on 15 November, 2010, 09:10:21 am

damp wet leaves yesterday, frost overnight = hazard

result is, I take a more dominant primary position in the road and get considerably more abuse and bad driving for it!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 15 November, 2010, 09:13:03 am
Very pleasant, fast, crisp run in this morning.  I like this weather, (although I'd have liked it less if it had still been raining when I set out).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 15 November, 2010, 09:13:43 am
Brrr. Freezing fog. A slippy corner scared the crap out of me. More than an hour to get here and my thighs were freezing. Not really sure I'm up for winter commuting this year.  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 November, 2010, 09:41:46 am
Cold even in the Great Wen.  Frosty at the perimeter (geographically, not anatomically (well, not so much)).  Must be right cold for our rural dwellers.

I had a nice ride to Clapham Common with Butterfly, and a decent ride beyond that, adding in an extra loop up Borough High St and round Union St etc, looking for any CCTV cameras which might have caught the interactions with the cabbie on Friday.  Not really :(  So much for the surveillance society when you need it :(

But the ride was great.  Simply wonderful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 15 November, 2010, 09:46:21 am
Cold but no ice on the road

Sun was shining in the park and the frost on the grass was rapidly melting.  There was a icey glare/misty effect, it was amazingly bright

New MTB shoes were reasonably ok but toes were cold not warm.  Maybe I need bigger socks
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 15 November, 2010, 09:58:18 am
Last week was a bit of a horrible mixture - only cycled two days out of five because of poor health, and met some extraordinarily bad driving which left me seriously contemplating giving up the whole cycling to work malarkey.  Fortunately I was saved by the overtall crapness of the train services down my way and started the week with new resolve and optimism.

So this morning's ride was mostly lovely: my fingers got a bit cold and didn't really get warm until I'd done about 5 miles, but the rest of me was ever so comfy.  It was my first commute in long trews since last winter and jolly nice it was to have full coverage and a warm merino top.

Not much muppetry on the roads, at least not that I could see.  It was good for the spirit to have no occasions to get shouty or scared.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 15 November, 2010, 10:11:53 am
Very cold this morning - took the scenic way in to work. Very pretty ice crystal covered moors and roads glittering in the sunshine (where they were not covered with freezing fog, that is!)
Occasional minor loss of traction on some steep uphills but nothing serious.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 15 November, 2010, 10:46:46 am
Almost left-hooked this morning on Walworth Road by some idiot deciding to cut across into a petrol station forecourt just as I was coming up the bus lane.

To be fair, he was signalling left. It's just a shame he didn't start signalling until he'd already started the turn.  :facepalm:

What made matters really interesting was that I'd got up a head of steam and was doing about 40km/h at the time.

Well, at least I know now that my brakes are effective in an emergency.

Nice ride apart from that. Very cold but at least it was dry, so no ice - but I did stick to the main routes rather than the back roads to be on the safe side. Maybe I could have done with full-fingered gloves instead of the mitts today. And I really must invest in some warm socks and/or overshoes.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 15 November, 2010, 10:55:55 am
I'd have been better off wearing my wetsuit yesterday on my not-commute 4-hour ride. Saw 5 other like-minded idiots out for a cycle. Must remember to wear some sort of eye protection as they're still sore today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 15 November, 2010, 11:20:22 am
Ice and frost, then mist, dew and spilt diesel. Had to be very careful at junctions today. Combined with the low sun and noticing that I spend a long time obscured by cars a-pillars, I felt quite vulnerable today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Seldom Killer on 15 November, 2010, 11:22:04 am
Really questioned the first four miles to work this morning, which are almost all down hill, into a headwind. Too much cold before I get to warm up. The rest was lovely though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 November, 2010, 11:30:02 am
Quote from: Wendy on 10 November, 2010, 03:57:57 pm
In fairness to the Dynamo, I know that their membership secretary does deal with RLJing complaints about members in kit.  Get photo/video, and I'm sure he'll deal with it.

I reported it to the only email I could find on their website, which was the membership one.

I've not even had an acknowledgement.  They had a chance to do something about it before I gave the details.  But nothing seems to have happened, so here's what happened:

I first spotted the riders - one in Dynamo kit - as I was waiting at a pedestrian crossing.  The light was red.  There was a van at the line, making sightlines very difficult.  There were pedestrians on the crossing which I could see, but the club riders couldn't.  They just dashed straight through.  Great.

Then they came up behind another group of cyclists negotiating traffic, and just charged through, making other cyclists (and motorists) swerve or brake to avoid them as they steamed through gaps without observing or waiting.

Prats.  And, yet again, a very poor advert for a club which doesn't seem to do itself any favours.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 15 November, 2010, 11:32:29 am
Quote from: clarion on 15 November, 2010, 11:30:02 am
I first spotted the riders - one in Dynamo kit - as I was waiting at a pedestrian crossing.  The light was red.  There was a van at the line, making sightlines very difficult.  There were pedestrians on the crossing which I could see, but the club riders couldn't.  They just dashed straight through.  Great.

Then they came up behind another group of cyclists negotiating traffic, and just charged through, making other cyclists (and motorists) swerve or brake to avoid them as they steamed through gaps without observing or waiting.

Prats.  And, yet again, a very poor advert for a club which doesn't seem to do itself any favours.


But they cycle quickly, and nobody else can do that, eh? 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 November, 2010, 11:34:38 am
Yeah.  That.  I hadn't thought of that.

;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mAsTa RiDaH on 15 November, 2010, 11:37:23 am
It was cold.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 15 November, 2010, 11:49:41 am
It was lovely.  Bright sunshine, sod all wind.  Sore legs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adam on 15 November, 2010, 12:27:20 pm
Cold & misty. 

On the descents (OK then, slopes) I was being very cautious and as I dropped down onto the main Luton road, the final bit of the slope was all nice & glistening with ice.  The front wheel went sideways about 30 degrees but I managed to re-balance and carry on.  Phew.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: lilly22 on 15 November, 2010, 02:05:02 pm
It was a sunny day!

enjoyed the commute and overall happy!!  :thumbsup:
(hope it's equally nice on the way home....)



Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pinkbikini on 15 November, 2010, 05:15:59 pm
Quote from: clarion on 15 November, 2010, 11:30:02 am
Quote from: Wendy on 10 November, 2010, 03:57:57 pm
In fairness to the Dynamo, I know that their membership secretary does deal with RLJing complaints about members in kit.  Get photo/video, and I'm sure he'll deal with it.

I reported it to the only email I could find on their website, which was the membership one.

I've not even had an acknowledgement.  They had a chance to do something about it before I gave the details.  But nothing seems to have happened, so here's what happened:

I first spotted the riders - one in Dynamo kit - as I was waiting at a pedestrian crossing.  The light was red.  There was a van at the line, making sightlines very difficult.  There were pedestrians on the crossing which I could see, but the club riders couldn't.  They just dashed straight through.  Great.

Then they came up behind another group of cyclists negotiating traffic, and just charged through, making other cyclists (and motorists) swerve or brake to avoid them as they steamed through gaps without observing or waiting.

Prats.  And, yet again, a very poor advert for a club which doesn't seem to do itself any favours.


You may not have had an acknowledgement, but the info went out on the forum.  No one has come forwards (unsurprisingly) but there have been several pretty strongly worded replies from the Committee members who are keen to stamp this kind of thing out, by banning members if needed.  To RLJ is pretty stupid, to RLJ in club kit day after day is moronic and pisses off the vast majority of members.  We have one rider who regularly orders his Quicker By Bike kit for us all to promote good riding.  To then have his good work cancelled out by this tosser is annoying.

If you can get some details of the culprit next time you see him that would help.  For instance, colour of bike, model of bike, riding style, hair colour, attire.  Accent perhaps (you mentioned you have spoken to him in the past).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 15 November, 2010, 06:07:14 pm
Did not have to be in at work at the crack of dawn and could leave a few minutes earlier than usual so decided to extend the commute both ways today...

Ended up doing a leisurely 72km and climbing 1100m in 3 hours total.

Is this "extending the commute" lark really wise, I wonder!?  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 November, 2010, 07:33:28 pm
Quote from: pinkbikini on 15 November, 2010, 05:15:59 pm
Quote from: clarion on 15 November, 2010, 11:30:02 am
Quote from: Wendy on 10 November, 2010, 03:57:57 pm
In fairness to the Dynamo, I know that their membership secretary does deal with RLJing complaints about members in kit.  Get photo/video, and I'm sure he'll deal with it.

I reported it to the only email I could find on their website, which was the membership one.

I've not even had an acknowledgement.  They had a chance to do something about it before I gave the details.  But nothing seems to have happened, so here's what happened:

I first spotted the riders - one in Dynamo kit - as I was waiting at a pedestrian crossing.  The light was red.  There was a van at the line, making sightlines very difficult.  There were pedestrians on the crossing which I could see, but the club riders couldn't.  They just dashed straight through.  Great.

Then they came up behind another group of cyclists negotiating traffic, and just charged through, making other cyclists (and motorists) swerve or brake to avoid them as they steamed through gaps without observing or waiting.

Prats.  And, yet again, a very poor advert for a club which doesn't seem to do itself any favours.


You may not have had an acknowledgement, but the info went out on the forum.  No one has come forwards (unsurprisingly) but there have been several pretty strongly worded replies from the Committee members who are keen to stamp this kind of thing out, by banning members if needed.  To RLJ is pretty stupid, to RLJ in club kit day after day is moronic and pisses off the vast majority of members.  We have one rider who regularly orders his Quicker By Bike kit for us all to promote good riding.  To then have his good work cancelled out by this tosser is annoying.

If you can get some details of the culprit next time you see him that would help.  For instance, colour of bike, model of bike, riding style, hair colour, attire.  Accent perhaps (you mentioned you have spoken to him in the past).

That's good to hear.  I can imagine it would annoy any decent club members (and I know you are one - welcome to this forum) if some idiot spoils their reputation.

I've seen a tall rider on my commute (normally near Tooting-Balham) wearing Quickerbybike shorts - is he a Dynamo member too?  He's a sensible rider, I'd have to say. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 15 November, 2010, 07:43:17 pm
Nearly hit a stupid dog which just wandered into my path and stood there. I was wary of braking too hard because of thick frost and iciness, but the dog did not respond to verbal commands.

And, as I was going through the tunnel, a big oily greasy wet drip landed in my left eye, perfect aim, so now I'm convinced I'm going to get some sort of weird Weil's disease of the eye or something.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 15 November, 2010, 08:13:00 pm
I did try to tell you Clarion.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 November, 2010, 10:12:20 pm
I think I've fallen in love.

With my Cyo. :P

There's always a patch of daylight just ahead ;D

And I love the groovy rhomboid-y shapes you cast as you go round a corner :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 15 November, 2010, 10:21:54 pm
I like the "horns of light" that go out to the sides. Reminds me of these.
 ;D


(http://www.shadow-avp.se/skit/marauder10.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 16 November, 2010, 12:17:11 am
Cycling home tonight was a strange mixture of an incredibly clear sky, and lovely bright moon, and thick fog whilst cycling across Clapham and Tooting Bec Commons.  I guess the utter lack of any traffic on the commons means that there isn't even that slight flow of air to clear the fog away.  Pretty much the rest of the way was entirely fog free, but the commons had it surprisingly thick in places.

Still, being a Monday evening, there weren't too many prats out there, so it was a relatively uneventful ride otherwise. :)

There was definitely a bit of a nip in the air however. Talisker had actually deigned to remember how the cat flap worked, and was inside waiting for me, rather than outside the backdoor looking plaintively cold, as is often his want, so it must be cold. ;D

(The outside thermometer is reading 1.9°C, so not as cold as the forecast, which had it at freezing before now).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 16 November, 2010, 12:24:34 am
Quote from: Kirst on 15 November, 2010, 07:43:17 pm
Nearly hit a stupid dog which just wandered into my path and stood there. I was wary of braking too hard because of thick frost and iciness, but the dog did not respond to verbal commands.

And, as I was going through the tunnel, a big oily greasy wet drip landed in my left eye, perfect aim, so now I'm convinced I'm going to get some sort of weird Weil's disease of the eye or something.

You have seen that bit in 28 days later I assume...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 16 November, 2010, 01:17:21 am
Quote from: boab on 15 November, 2010, 09:13:43 am
Brrr. Freezing fog. A slippy corner scared the crap out of me. More than an hour to get here and my thighs were freezing. Not really sure I'm up for winter commuting this year.  :(

I know you have a particular opinion on the matter- but really - if you have  a commute that warrants it as much as yours does, you really ARE allowed to have studded tyres outside NorthumbrScandinavia.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 16 November, 2010, 01:28:57 am
I lost the thread at "thighs". What were we talking about?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 16 November, 2010, 06:48:23 am
Quote from: alexb on 16 November, 2010, 12:24:34 am
Quote from: Kirst on 15 November, 2010, 07:43:17 pm
Nearly hit a stupid dog which just wandered into my path and stood there. I was wary of braking too hard because of thick frost and iciness, but the dog did not respond to verbal commands.

And, as I was going through the tunnel, a big oily greasy wet drip landed in my left eye, perfect aim, so now I'm convinced I'm going to get some sort of weird Weil's disease of the eye or something.

You have seen that bit in 28 days later I assume...

Just what I was thinking - still, she probably can't reply now, as she is ravening about scotlandland eating people.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 16 November, 2010, 07:26:31 am
Hmmm.  That was fun. For certain values of "fun".

Blinded by idiots using main beam in fog...
All my leading edges covered in ice...
Specs constantly misting over...
And now, just to cap it all, I've got to do some work. Chiz, chiz, chiz. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 16 November, 2010, 07:47:43 am
Quote from: tonycollinet on 16 November, 2010, 06:48:23 am

Just what I was thinking - still, she probably can't reply now, as she is ravening about scotlandland eating people.  ;D
RAAAAAARRRRRRRRRGGGGGGHHHHHHHHHH
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 16 November, 2010, 08:10:12 am
Quote from: simonp on 16 November, 2010, 01:28:57 am
I lost the thread at "thighs". What were we talking about?

A well developed pumping action I think.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 November, 2010, 08:28:08 am
Quote from: simonp on 16 November, 2010, 01:28:57 am
I lost the thread at "thighs". What were we talking about?

I'm happy to talk about thighs....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 16 November, 2010, 08:54:37 am
Yarrggh - I be Tinklebeard.  Regardez the heroic pose, the square-jawed chin, the bristles frozen with...well, better not go there - people may still be eating breakfast ;D

[Good last night: Large buck with big rack + 5 hinds in the mist at top of Ashbury :thumbsup:]
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 16 November, 2010, 09:55:46 am
Set off, thinking "It's a little foggy". half mile later, stopped and swapped glasses for contact lenses. I can see! Gosh, riding in the fog is quite nice when I can see. Icy cyclepaths, tho.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 16 November, 2010, 09:59:24 am
Quote from: iddu on 16 November, 2010, 08:54:37 am
[Good last night: Large buck with big rack + 5 hinds in the mist at top of Ashbury :thumbsup:]

Your dogging exploits are a little off topic...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 16 November, 2010, 10:05:16 am
Very misty.  I came across a police car supervising the loading of a car onto a lorry.  Then I saw three other police cars rushing to some other emergencies.  You would think that on a misty freezing morning people would take more care.  Cold fingers again, I really must wear the long fingered gloves.

And to think some people were advocating earlier starts two weeks ago.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 16 November, 2010, 10:09:26 am
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 16 November, 2010, 10:05:16 am
Very misty.  I came across a police car supervising the loading of a car onto a lorry.  Then I saw three other polices cars rushing to some other emergency.  You would think that on a misty freezing morning people would take more care.  Cold fingers again, I really must wear the long fingered gloves.

I was wearing the long fingered gloves; even then, my fingers were getting very cold on the first 10 minutes of the commute.  After that, thankfully, they warmed up.

The fog seems to have send drivers mad, today.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 November, 2010, 10:13:39 am
Take more care?  You'd think.  Even before the ice, on thursday night, the first of the season's drivers to go through the barriers at Carshalton Ponds had done his (it's always a man) work...

The Ponds (http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/35/027212_carshalton_pond.jpg/800px-027212_carshalton_pond.jpg).  The image seems to have been an example of the aftermath of a previous numpty going through the barrier for an unscheduled dip.  It's dated 2002, but the tradition goes back longer than that.  You think people might know by now.

In recent weeks, there has been a small squib of a campaign to concrete over part of the ponds to widen the road so people can drive faster.  Apparently, this will improve Carshalton no end. ::-)

Another idea come up (and tried twice before but abandoned; once within weeks) is of having a one way system.  

It is stupid.  The easy answer is:

Drive slower and more carefully, fuckwits! >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 16 November, 2010, 10:26:15 am
It's a bit like Darwin's Corners near here - let the fcukwits drive into the water, IMO.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 16 November, 2010, 10:26:21 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 16 November, 2010, 09:59:24 am
Quote from: iddu on 16 November, 2010, 08:54:37 am
[Good last night: Large buck with big rack + 5 hinds in the mist at top of Ashbury :thumbsup:]
Your dogging exploits are a little off topic...
GIT [beep beep beep beep beepity beep] helldesk? new screen plz, this ones full of tea ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 16 November, 2010, 11:06:48 am
Quote from: simonp on 15 November, 2010, 11:49:41 am
It was lovely.  Bright sunshine, sod all wind.  Sore legs.


Repeat.

Except: I accidentally rode with the lights on (hub dynamo) and was faster than yesterday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 16 November, 2010, 12:28:07 pm
Quote from: simonp on 16 November, 2010, 11:06:48 am
Quote from: simonp on 15 November, 2010, 11:49:41 am
It was lovely.  Bright sunshine, sod all wind.  Sore legs.
Except: I accidentally rode with the lights on (hub dynamo) and was faster than yesterday.
"Bright sunshine"

So your lights weren't needed, they went into reverse mode, sucking in photons and storing them in the hub, dragging you forward at a quicker pace. You watch - you'll be slower going home, but all those saved photons will mean you don't expend so much effort to light your way, so will not feel so tired when you get there...

Truzt me, I'z a hinjiner  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 November, 2010, 12:57:31 pm
No commute today, but I rode up the hill to TGL's school.  Not far, but it's certainly a hill...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: geoff on 16 November, 2010, 01:15:09 pm
Frozen extremities...including eyelashes, eyebrows and hairy legs (nasty, I assure you).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 16 November, 2010, 01:24:07 pm
Surprisingly different each side of town - much more foggy and coldy in the west.  Actually, very dampy in the west too, stuff started dripping, but at least when I took my glasses off it was less foggy.   ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 16 November, 2010, 01:38:07 pm
When I left Croydon it was beautifully crisp with sunny skies.  Clapham Common was predictably somewhat foggy, and the fog was so bad going down Cedars Road / Queenstown Road, that I stopped and put my front and rear lights on (this was at 9-30ish).  Crossing the river, you couldn't actually see any of the river from the bridge, the fog along the river was very thick.

I guess the Thames Valley acted like a trap and kept the fog inside.

The sun has come out now in South Kensington, so I guess the fog will have mostly burnt off over London.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 16 November, 2010, 01:44:06 pm
Quote from: TimO on 16 November, 2010, 01:38:07 pm
The sun has come out now in South Kensington, so I guess the fog will have mostly burnt off over London.

Not in (non-)sunny Sunbury.

Very murky out there right now. Distinctly damp by the time I arrived at work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 16 November, 2010, 02:28:15 pm
My commute was odd. Half an hour later than usual, so the school run mothers who had managed to clear a 2 inch square bit of window to peer through were nearer the beginning of my ride than usual.  ::-) It was foggy when I set off, then towards Mitcham common it was beautifully clear with bright sunshine, then up the hill towards Wandsworth common it was foggy again :). My boss didn't believe me when I told him that Garratt Lane, half a mile away, had dazzling sun ;D.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 16 November, 2010, 02:47:30 pm
This was my commute today..

(http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1285/5180803151_a6e164917a_z.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davidmam/5180803151/)
Logie Avenue view over Dundee (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davidmam/5180803151/) by davidmamartin (http://www.flickr.com/people/davidmam/), on Flickr
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: NeilP on 16 November, 2010, 03:57:33 pm
Quote from: iddu on 16 November, 2010, 08:54:37 am
Yarrggh - I be Tinklebeard.  Regardez the heroic pose, the square-jawed chin, the bristles frozen with...well, better not go there - people may still be eating breakfast ;D

[Good last night: Large buck with big rack + 5 hinds in the mist at top of Ashbury :thumbsup:]

Is that Vale of White Horse Ashbury?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 16 November, 2010, 04:02:56 pm
Quote from: oxoneil on 16 November, 2010, 03:57:33 pm
Is that Vale of White Horse Ashbury?
Aye - standard lump in commute...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 16 November, 2010, 06:01:05 pm
On the way back, up to Brentford it was dead foggy, after which it lifted and was sunny.  (set off home early)

However.....

Bad news! ...... chain broke, booo
Good news! ...... I was 100m from a cycle shop, hurrah!
Bad news!...... it was cycle surgery, booo
Good news!..... they had everything I wanted, hurrah!
Bad news! .....I had to pay cycle surgery prices (less 10%, natch) booo
Good news? errrr.... I didn't have to worry about being mugged after that?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 16 November, 2010, 06:31:28 pm
I've just cycled past 2 police cars, a paramedic car/ambulance, and another car - parked on its somewhat crushed roof. As far as I could see - no other car involved.

This on a country lane only 50-80 yards from the junction (I think heading towards the junction, but I guess it could have been either direction)

What do you have to be doing to put your car on its roof in that position? Thankfully the removal of any occupants had already happened before I arrived.

I hope the injuries are not bad.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 16 November, 2010, 07:32:10 pm
It might have been cold.  I was wearing two pairs of everything, just in case.  Except spectacles - they misted up so I took them off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 16 November, 2010, 07:36:54 pm
Gosh, cycling at night with contacts rather than specs is so much nicer! No reflections off car headlights, proper peripheral vision - I really enjoyed it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 16 November, 2010, 07:46:48 pm
I should perhaps have another attempt at finding contact lenses that I can live with :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 16 November, 2010, 11:39:16 pm
My commute home tonight wasn't my usual route; had to go via Webber street and then to the Lambeth Cyclists meet, so I swung round Elephant and then had a fair run down Kennington Road.  Wish my regular commute was as straight and fast; I'd do it in half the time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 17 November, 2010, 09:18:29 am
That said, lovely fast commute this morning, by the standards of my route.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 17 November, 2010, 09:49:37 am
Slightly early commute today.  Normally I slump down watching BBC Breakfast News while drinking my tea or until my brain starts to rot.  There are limits so as the first twenty minutes of news was likely to be royal engagement (grade A brain rot) I decided that it would be best to continue the leaving process at once.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 17 November, 2010, 09:57:19 am
That wind got up awfully quickly - I checked it from comfort of bed - 16mph.

By the time I was on the road, it was gusting 35mph. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 November, 2010, 09:57:50 am
I didn't get a commute yesterday, and an attempt at a short ride with someone else had to be curtailed because my companion is carrying an injury.  So this morning I decided to get up early, and go out for a longer ride.  I spurred off my normal commute to cross Clapham Common at a busier time to see how the speed limit was working with more bikes.

There was one other rider on the path, so it didn't make much difference.  One dog ran across my path, one other looked like it might, and one jogger was approaching on one of the intersecting footpaths, so I had to decide if I was in danger of causing her any inconvenience (I was well away from causing her any physical danger).  My max speed read as about 25kph, but, if any Park Police are reading this, I ought to inform them that my computer isn't very accurate, and so I believe I was riding at 8mph ;)

The traffic had been busy towards Mitcham, but comparatively quiet round Tooting & Balham, which was really odd.  I found the rest of the traffic down on Queenstown Road, and getting onto Chelsea Bridge was slow and difficult.  I'm glad I don't commute this way every day any more.

Embankment was its usual self, with a lot of cyclists of varying ability.  Most seemed pretty sensible, though, which is an improvement, although, going round Parliament Square, I noticed I was the only mug cyclist who stopped at the red lights.  I found out why this was as soon as the cabs tried to sideswipe me.  Ah well.

Btw, WTF is that big lump of tarmac at the pedestrian crossing outside Parliament?  At least it's barriered off, but it looks like a big infrastructure cock up and pretty dangerous.

I dithered over which bridge to take, but I pressed on all the way to London Bridge (which isn't well signposted, but better than Southwark Bridge, at least).

It's the second time in a week that I've ridden South over London Bridge at rush hour.  Well, strictly speaking it was half over the bridge last week, as I'd ridden up to the middle of the river to throw in a small loop.  But how depressing to see the stream of glum City workers trudging across the river like Morlocks.  And what a contrast with the last section of my ride as I sped down Borough High Street, turning into Trinity Road for the back way to work.

Arriving at work early.  And with a big grin.  I like that kind of commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 17 November, 2010, 10:06:03 am
That was a bit nasty

Lots of rain, some flooding, leaves all over the road and gale force winds

Couple of times I had that thing where you go past a gateway and as it is a gap in the hedge there is a sudden sideways gust of wind.

I know aquaplaning is impossible at 20 mph but with the aid of cornering in a stream filled with leaves the bike managed a good copy of it.

Just as I was starting the the big descent into Taunton I decided that my brakes weren't working.  I stopped with boot power before I got some speed up.   Adjusted the brakes- which requires an allen key.  The wall I leaned the bike against in the rain and wind was ok except for the nettles

When I got to work I had to empty the water out of my left hand boot, apart from that the coat/over trousers/overshoes arrangement was pretty good.   Bizarrely, both of my socks were wet through and the insides of the shoes were wet but thanks to the overshoes the outside of the shoes was dry.  
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 17 November, 2010, 10:14:24 am
I also left a bit early today, since I needed to pick up a parcel from the Post Office place at East Croydon Station, and needed to be in earlyish for a possible meeting.  Whilst there were more cyclists about, it wasn't vastly busier than my usual commute.

The wind was definitely there today, which was quite different compared to yesterday morning, when the fog meant there was virtually no breeze.  Luckily, it also seemed to be mostly behind me, so a slightly faster commute. :thumbsup:

Going along the A23 between Thornton Heath Pond and Norbury, there was obviously something going on, since there were two fire engines, a police motorcyclist, and interestingly two police pedal-cyclists.  I'm guessing it was a fire somewhere (although it was far from obvious where), but it's unusual to see police cyclists around that part of the world.  (There's nothing on the LFB's Latest Incidents page, so I'm still none the wiser).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 17 November, 2010, 10:39:47 am
I hardly noticed my commute in today. My thoughts were entirely occupied by the forthcoming marriage of William and Catherine. Gosh, this bit of good news seems to be pervading all our threads doesn't it chaps?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 17 November, 2010, 10:59:29 am
Quote from: Riggers on 17 November, 2010, 10:39:47 am
I hardly noticed my commute in today. My thoughts were entirely occupied by the forthcoming marriage of William and Catherine.

Now, you see, my thoughts during the second half of my commute were almost entirely about the most beuatiful arse I have seen in a very long time, which walked past me along Cromwell Road while I was stopped at the lights.  Thankfully, the lights didn't change until she had walked out of sight.

I think my commute was more productive.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 17 November, 2010, 11:03:29 am
Massive tailwind.  Tour de commute (I lost, kinda).  Glad of the tail wind given my tired legs from running + gym yesterday.  Had been at 29.2kph average but dropped to 28.7 due to slow junctions/paths/work car park etc.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 17 November, 2010, 11:06:51 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 17 November, 2010, 10:59:29 am
Quote from: Riggers on 17 November, 2010, 10:39:47 am
I hardly noticed my commute in today. My thoughts were entirely occupied by the forthcoming marriage of William and Catherine.

Now, you see, my thoughts during the second half of my commute were almost entirely about the most beuatiful arse I have seen in a very long time, which walked past me along Cromwell Road while I was stopped at the lights.  Thankfully, the lights didn't change until she had walked out of sight.

I think my commute was more productive.



If a tad uncomfortable in the trouser area no doubt?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 17 November, 2010, 05:15:16 pm
Well this could be an interesting journey home, it appears that Thames Valley Police have closed the A30 at the end of my commute. Depending on the diversion implimented I may not be able to get home and or am going to find the road full of the press.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 November, 2010, 08:37:49 pm
I broke another sodding spoke >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 17 November, 2010, 08:39:09 pm
Quote from: clarion on 17 November, 2010, 08:37:49 pm
I broke another sodding spoke >:(

Blimey, Clarrers, what's going on?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 November, 2010, 08:42:35 pm
What's going on is that Ridgeback made a rather splendid singlespeed bike with rack & guard fixings, so ideal for commuting.

Sadly, they went for fashionably black spokes for the wheels instead of something that would do the job properly >:(

ICBA to fix it tonight (it's drive side), but I need to take the trailer out tomorrow night almost as soon as I get home, so I shall commute on the Orbit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 17 November, 2010, 08:44:18 pm
Quote from: clarion on 17 November, 2010, 08:42:35 pm
What's going on is that Ridgeback made a rather splendid singlespeed bike with rack & guard fixings, so ideal for commuting.

Sadly, they went for fashionably black spokes for the wheels instead of something that would do the job properly >:(

ICBA to fix it tonight (it's drive side), but I need to take the trailer out tomorrow night almost as soon as I get home, so I shall commute on the Orbit.

What a complete pain in the neck.

Oh, well, at least you've another bike  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 17 November, 2010, 09:36:27 pm
Quote from: clarion on 17 November, 2010, 08:42:35 pm
What's going on is that Ridgeback made a rather splendid singlespeed bike with rack & guard fixings, so ideal for commuting.

Sadly, they went for fashionably black spokes for the wheels instead of something that would do the job properly >:(

ICBA to fix it tonight (it's drive side), but I need to take the trailer out tomorrow night almost as soon as I get home, so I shall commute on the Orbit.

Do you tow the trailer with the Ridgeback? I've had broken spokes from towing a trailer, allthough they were very cheap wheels and not built by me. Or are your wheels laced properly, with the spoke inside the hub having the nipple end further around the direction of travel (The drive side would be, looking at the wheel  with the sprocket facing you, going further clockwise) I've seen a lot of wheels that are built the other way or are half wrong and the other half correct (including the ones on my hybrid) and it can lead to broken spokes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 November, 2010, 09:47:28 pm
No.  The Orbit is the draft animal.  The rear wheel on that isn't great, despite being Deore & Mavic A719, but put together by eejits, so I do need to adjust it from time to time, but I've not broken a spoke yet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 17 November, 2010, 10:50:52 pm
Quote from: clarion on 17 November, 2010, 09:47:28 pm
No.  The Orbit is the draft animal.  The rear wheel on that isn't great, despite being Deore & Mavic A719, but put together by eejits, so I do need to adjust it from time to time, but I've not broken a spoke yet.

Oops. That's done it.
Don't forget some spare spokes and a spoke key.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 18 November, 2010, 09:13:26 am
A rush home last night. Hit another glass splashdown (why do little f*cks drop bottles off bridges onto cyclepaths and roads). Then a branch - about 12ft long, twiggy and bushy, right across the path. Somehow didn't crash, but lost a mudguard stay fitting. Can't believe I didn't puncture yesterday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 18 November, 2010, 09:19:03 am
For a change a nice average boring morning

No floods, the ground was wet
No gales, there was a light wind
No ice, it wasn't warm either
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 November, 2010, 09:58:05 am
Yes, a delightfully uneventful journey to work.  I had to dig out the tourer as I didn't repair the broken spoke last night (I'm not even sure I have one the right length).

I found myself wondering why it was taking so long to get to the Oval junction when I realised I was approaching Walworth Road, and had already ridden through it :-[

No opportunity to go play the other side of the river like yesterday, but a decent ride nonetheless. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 November, 2010, 10:15:11 am
This morning, I rode across the level crossing at Mitcham Eastfields, which prompted me to note that, probably three times out of four, I carry my bike across the bridge because the barriers are down.

I wonder if there are any other members who have a regular portage section on their commutes?  I'm sure there must be.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 18 November, 2010, 10:22:37 am
Uneventful ride in apart from the idiot motorbike rider who undertook me on the turnoff from Battersea Park Road onto Prince of Wales Drive.  I took prime position in the road to make the right turn, because a bunch of slower cyclists had parked themselves ahead of the lights, down the centre strip, waiting for the lights to change.  As I passed them, I checked behind and moved over to the left, to give room to him and the cars behind him.  But the impatient bastard gunned forwards and to the left, side-swiping through the flock of slower cyclists, so he could undertake me and shoot off.  He nearly ended up going head-on into a parked car.  Moron of the first order.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 18 November, 2010, 10:49:05 am
Nice and uneventful ride in this morning, even though it was spoiled somewhat by knowing that I was going to be a smidge late. Fortunately I walked into the office at 0835, 5 mins late, to find that bossman was being lazy and not there so I was fine, no need to have stressed on the journey.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: urban_biker on 18 November, 2010, 11:33:29 am
I've been riding in to work much later recently due to domestic changes. It means that traffic is a lot heavier and I end up overtaking a lot more cars.  Its so much more hassle when there are so many cars around. But overtaking so many is pretty satisfying I guess.

I haven't used my airzound in a few years but tempted to fit it again. At least then I get some attention and can educate people when they pull out in front of me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ed_o_brain on 18 November, 2010, 02:25:27 pm
Just getting into a new routine having moved offices...

+ve


-ve


On balance that's pretty good.
-ve
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 18 November, 2010, 04:51:13 pm
U turned at the roundabout to follow the car that had turned right across my path (loads of space) but she had a flat rear right hand tyre and I knew I would catch her in the queue for the road works.

Not looking forward to the ride home though, I have got a head cold that has struck whilst at work and unlike last night the road isn't closed in the village http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-11778873 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-11778873) so all the cars won't have diverted to the alternative routes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonBuoy on 18 November, 2010, 09:37:43 pm
I didn't have a good start to this morning's commute.

I obviously wasn't concentrating hard enough as I managed to hit a bit of raised concrete hard with my left pedal.  This woke me up enough to make me unclip my left foot to see whether the clip-in plastic platform/reflector was still there  -  and it wasn't.  I did a U-turn to go back and find it and noticed that a neighbour was cycling towards me.  I stopped just before we met, said good morning, tried to unclip my left foot, couldn't, then toppled gracelessly down the grass verge.  Both me and my bike were undamaged   -  unlike my pride.

It took me a while to work out that it was just my luck that I had clipped back into the side of the pedal that had previously held the reflector with the release adjuster wound down to b@st@rd tight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 18 November, 2010, 10:45:05 pm
I had green lights on the way home all the way from the exit of Battersea Park to my doorstep. That's NINE sets of lights along about three miles of road, or maybe more. Stupendous. I do wish that I timed my rides so I could see how much time I saved.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 November, 2010, 10:45:35 pm
I rushed home tonight to take TGL out to his turbo session, but he wasn't feeling up to it.  Tbh, neither was I.  I'd been planning to go shopping with the trailer while he was spinning in the hall.  I did have to go shopping, but it was a more muted affair down at the Coop and a tough hill home.  
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 19 November, 2010, 12:10:33 am
Quote from: little miss mac on 18 November, 2010, 10:45:05 pm
I had green lights on the way home all the way from the exit of Battersea Park to my doorstep. That's NINE sets of lights along about three miles of road, or maybe more. ...

I wish I only had three lights a mile on my commute, I average about double that.  They weren't too bad this evening, the morning commute is always worse for red lights.

I know it was a little colder, and less windy, on the Commons this evening, since across Tooting Bec Common there was some fog forming again, albeit nowhere near as thick as earlier this week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 19 November, 2010, 12:50:22 am
Just hit 20,000 km on the Fujin since I got her two years ago. Good ride, bit wet from spray but otherwise fine.  Some impatient drivers around, but most were lovely and patient.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 19 November, 2010, 08:27:03 am
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4148/5188007783_fc62509e09.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 19 November, 2010, 08:46:25 am
Gratz and bah humbug. (and well done for not getting distracted, and getting the majik photo)

The comp I had on my mercian only went up to 9999.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 19 November, 2010, 08:50:45 am
It's a bit easier once you get above 9999km - instead of a hundred metres, you have a whole km before it changes.  Last time, the 10,000km happened right at the end of my commute too, I only had to do one loop around the block to take it over, and this time it happened within 800m of home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 November, 2010, 09:16:10 am
Well done.  That's an impressive total. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 19 November, 2010, 10:55:06 am
Sheesh - what is it with the muppetry this month?

Scratch another two voiture's in a head-on; on a straight piece with nothing else around FFS :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 19 November, 2010, 10:59:10 am
Overtook a girl on a black Condor wearing Rapha-esque gear. She was pootling; I wasn't being an arse. However, she then wheelsucked for 3km, riding so close, I was riding in my own shadow. Wind was behind, so we were doing about 35kph. At the crest of a hill, she attacked. I know I shouldn't have taken the bait, but the sight of her poor legs going at about 120rpm made it obvious that she'd made a critical error - don't attack at the crest when the person your are trying to drop has gears, you are on a singlespeed/fixed, and there's a there's a tailwind. I realise it was terribly childish, but hitting 55kph helped the journey average.  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 19 November, 2010, 11:05:09 am
Quote from: DrMekon on 19 November, 2010, 10:59:10 am
Overtook a girl on a black Condor...
Stuck behind FIT bouncing along at 120RPM; such a shame for competiveness to kick in ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 19 November, 2010, 01:49:07 pm
Quote from: iddu on 19 November, 2010, 11:05:09 am
Quote from: DrMekon on 19 November, 2010, 10:59:10 am
Overtook a girl on a black Condor...
Stuck behind FIT bouncing along at 120RPM; such a shame for competiveness to kick in ;)

Priorities all wrong. I'd have done the same though.

Mind you 55kph descending is fine on 71".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 19 November, 2010, 01:55:40 pm
Quote from: simonp on 19 November, 2010, 01:49:07 pm
Mind you 55kph descending is fine on 71".

Although it does look very very silly  ;D

As we shall see, descending off the Cromer Ridge into Weybourne tomorrow  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 19 November, 2010, 02:22:41 pm
Quote from: simonp on 19 November, 2010, 01:49:07 pm
Mind you 55kph descending is fine on 71".

Ulp. So what does that make 64kph on 67", down Ashbury?

[apart from stupid ;)]
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 19 November, 2010, 04:39:32 pm
Quote from: iddu on 19 November, 2010, 02:22:41 pm
Quote from: simonp on 19 November, 2010, 01:49:07 pm
Mind you 55kph descending is fine on 71".

Ulp. So what does that make 64kph on 67", down Ashbury?

[apart from stupid ;)]

Somewhere around 200rpm I reckon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 19 November, 2010, 04:59:24 pm
Quote from: teethgrinder on 19 November, 2010, 04:39:32 pm
Somewhere around 200rpm I reckon.
Yeah, it's a real pisser - 198 is what (the comp) shows; just can't seem to make the n+2 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 19 November, 2010, 05:26:15 pm
Friday commute in the mist \o/

And I'm about to set off for the friday commute home in the dark.

But probably the last Friday commute for the time being - I'm officially swapping to my winter timetable which is designed to work around rural bus timetables :'(

(However, because I'm not entirely stoooopid it, most cunningly, is still just about do-able by bike if the weather happens to be OK  ;D although one of my bosses got very twitchy and risk-assess-y when I told her that on my dark commute home last week I saw one cyclist, 2 dog walkers, 3 bunnies and a lots of stars)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 19 November, 2010, 05:33:55 pm
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 19 November, 2010, 05:26:15 pm
although one of my bosses got very twitchy and risk-assess-y when I told her that on my dark commute home last week I saw one cyclist, 2 dog walkers, 3 bunnies and a lots of stars

Seems reasonable.  Those are the sort of conditions that lead to wowbadger ambushes :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 19 November, 2010, 06:27:23 pm
Wow! I had two cyclists tag onto me going through the lanes in the fog tonight because I have a
CYO WALL OF LIGHT
on the front!!!

Nobody usually stays behind me because I am so slow.

 :thumbsup: :thumbsup:  ;D ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 19 November, 2010, 08:07:42 pm
Heh, good isn't it?  I once collected a following of four (briefly five) BSO-riders (a couple of them did have be-seen lights) and lead them most of the way to Bristol along the now legendary railway path.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 19 November, 2010, 08:10:40 pm
Foggy Cambridge in the dark.

Driver overtaking then immediately turning left.  Check.
Cyclist without lights riding down the wrong side of the road overtaking the car that had given way to me, unseen until I was right on top of them.  Check.
Tailgating motorist on Coldhams Lane.  Check.
Can't see a bloody thing in specs.  Check.

 >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 19 November, 2010, 09:32:49 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 19 November, 2010, 12:50:22 am
Just hit 20,000 km on the Fujin since I got her two years ago. Good ride, bit wet from spray but otherwise fine.  Some impatient drivers around, but most were lovely and patient.

Re-spek'

(if only for getting the photo ;) )
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 19 November, 2010, 10:27:09 pm
Quote from: DrMekon on 19 November, 2010, 10:59:10 am
Overtook a girl on a black Condor wearing Rapha-esque gear. She was pootling; I wasn't being an arse. However, she then wheelsucked for 3km, riding so close, I was riding in my own shadow. Wind was behind, so we were doing about 35kph. At the crest of a hill, she attacked. I know I shouldn't have taken the bait, but the sight of her poor legs going at about 120rpm made it obvious that she'd made a critical error - don't attack at the crest when the person your are trying to drop has gears, you are on a singlespeed/fixed, and there's a there's a tailwind. I realise it was terribly childish, but hitting 55kph helped the journey average.  :demon:

where was this? Heading out towards SW London, by any chance? I have a feeling I may know said lady.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 19 November, 2010, 10:36:58 pm
Real pea souper this evening...
Did a slightly extended 36km home in fog so thick that even the passing motons were crawling!
Took about 10 minutes longer due to reduced visibility and 10mph againsterly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Karla on 19 November, 2010, 11:44:28 pm
I walked today. 
i walked all this week
Bl**dy wrist.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: NeilP on 20 November, 2010, 11:04:15 am
Quote from: iddu on 16 November, 2010, 04:02:56 pm
Quote from: oxoneil on 16 November, 2010, 03:57:33 pm
Is that Vale of White Horse Ashbury?
Aye - standard lump in commute...

What a great route, what are your start and finish points?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 November, 2010, 08:53:50 pm
I didn't have a commute as such last night.  Instead, I rode up to Clapham Junction to meet with someone, then walked to Battersea, rode up to Wandsworth to meet Butterfly, and we rode to Putney & back to Battersea before having a cup of tea & getting a train home.  Lovely ride :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 20 November, 2010, 09:36:01 pm
A nice dry ride in this morning, with almost daylight by the time I arrived at work.  A man on a really nice Scott said "Morning" as he overtook me on Marton Road, which was nice. 

I hated the ride home.  Some wanker leaned on his horn going through Thornaby as he overtook me, a whole convoy of speeding boy racers buzzed passed me at top speed going Who knows where, and shortly afterward I had to pull over to let a very, very fast police car, full flashies and sirens, go past me towards Yarm.  No-one would let me into the right hand lane approaching the roundabout to turn right, after which someone beeped me again, and in short by the time I got home I was really quite fed up with it.  Thornaby on a rainy Saturday night in November is not a nice place to be riding your bike on the road  :(

But then I got in and Crusty had vacuumed and bought me some wine and posh chocolate.  So that was all right.   :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hugo15 on 20 November, 2010, 10:00:22 pm
Quote from: Lindagordinho on 20 November, 2010, 09:36:01 pm
A nice dry ride in this morning, with almost daylight by the time I arrived at work.  A man on a really nice Scott said "Morning" as he overtook me on Marton Road, which was nice. 

I hated the ride home.  Some wanker leaned on his horn going through Thornaby as he overtook me, a whole convoy of speeding boy racers buzzed passed me at top speed going Who knows where, and shortly afterward I had to pull over to let a very, very fast police car, full flashies and sirens, go past me towards Yarm.  No-one would let me into the right hand lane approaching the roundabout to turn right, after which someone beeped me again, and in short by the time I got home I was really quite fed up with it.  Thornaby on a rainy Saturday night in November is not a nice place to be riding your bike on the road  :(

But then I got in and Crusty had vacuumed and bought me some wine and posh chocolate.  So that was all right.   :)

You're much braver than I am. I'm afraid that riding through Stockton and Ingleby in the dark is just too scary for me so my commuting wheels have been hung up until mid-Feb when there will be enough daylight again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 21 November, 2010, 03:57:58 pm
Quote from: hugo15 on 20 November, 2010, 10:00:22 pm
You're much braver than I am. I'm afraid that riding through Stockton and Ingleby in the dark is just too scary for me so my commuting wheels have been hung up until mid-Feb when there will be enough daylight again.

There really are some rubbish drivers round Toytown, aren't there.

Bloody Noddy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 21 November, 2010, 09:44:34 pm
And today's mind-blowingly stupid overtake.  Wrong side of the road before a blind corner?  WTF!!



    YouTube
        - NT03FLE overtakes on blind bend and nearly has head-on collision
   (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oBmHSFrEt1Q)

There's more coming...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 21 November, 2010, 10:03:01 pm
And another one, no oncoming traffic luckily this time.


    YouTube
        - KH07NFX overtakes on blind corner.
   (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jIWRTvfCTAQ)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 November, 2010, 09:33:48 am
Surprisingly light traffic this morning.  Still a few bikes, though.  :)

Butterfly's not at work today, so she rode part of the way with me, and has probably ridden further than me already today ;D

I was a bit sluggish, but my saddlebag was loaded with clothes, so a bit heavier than normal.

Good ride, though :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 22 November, 2010, 09:53:40 am
Quote from: oxoneil on 20 November, 2010, 11:04:15 am
...what are your start and finish points?
Lambourn / South Marston Ind. Est.
Quote from: oxoneil on 20 November, 2010, 11:04:15 am
What a great route...
Mmm - not as many variations as to Newbury, as the roads diverge somewhat further; tracks can be a bit claggy when wet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 22 November, 2010, 09:54:39 am
That was a nice, smooth ride in. Seemed a lot easier than last week. Could be something to do with changing tyre pressure from 55psi to 95psi, on 25mm tyres  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MikeFromLFE on 22 November, 2010, 10:41:17 am
It was dry but miserable when eating my cornflakes; it was hissing it down when I went to get the bike out of its stable  >:(
This was the first really wet ride on my new longer commute since I started on this side of Leicester in June, and it was very wet, chucking it down almost all the way - stopping only as I got to the monster hill at the end of the ride.
Rainlegs and my boil-in-the-bag Aldi jacket (with obligatory broken zip) worked well. My biggest worry is whether my shoes will dry on the pipes before going home time. I'm glad I kept that pair of spare socks in my desk drawer   :thumbsup:
Note to self: see if my overshoes will work over these shoes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 22 November, 2010, 10:46:12 am
Nice fast run in.  Have definitely recovered from FNRttC ;)  Something about the experience of barrelling down near vertical roads at top speed in the dark really psyched me up for the commute in.

Not as cold as I expected it to be.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 22 November, 2010, 10:52:36 am
My legs felt yesterdays pace a bit and I had a 9am meeting, so I opted for the slightly longer but less trafficy route in taken nice and steady.
A taxi decided to overtake when I was trying to move right (and had kept my arm out for quite a while by then), so my hand signal became another signal, otherwise it was refreshing and peaceable.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 22 November, 2010, 07:59:16 pm
A very symmetrical commute.

One uncture on the way out, one uncture on the way back.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 22 November, 2010, 09:05:51 pm
Stopped in at the LFGSS South London drinks on the way home.  Don't usually drink that much on a Monday...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 November, 2010, 09:34:17 pm
I was verrrry late leaving work, but was met ten minutes from home by Butterfly & TGL, which made for a convivial ride :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 23 November, 2010, 07:45:35 am
Urghh. Pedalling squares, triangles even blood dodecagons but not a single bloody circle to be found this morning.  I wanna go back to bed. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 November, 2010, 09:16:00 am
Nice ride in.  Loads more traffic, with drivers just sitting glumly as I rode past.  I take consolation in the thought that, if they were in a hurry, they'd get a bike ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 23 November, 2010, 11:16:53 am
Day 4: The green goo has taken over Simon's nose. He rode to work today and this allowed him to expurgate much of it. Coldhams Lane may be slippery.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 23 November, 2010, 11:30:21 am
So you'll be heading down to the Roebuck for SE drinks then?

Quote from: itsbruce on 22 November, 2010, 09:05:51 pm
Stopped in at the LFGSS South London drinks on the way home.  Don't usually drink that much on a Monday...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dinamo on 23 November, 2010, 03:21:32 pm
Quote from: clarion on 23 November, 2010, 09:16:00 am
Nice ride in.  Loads more traffic, with drivers just sitting glumly as I rode past.  I take consolation in the thought that, if they were in a hurry, they'd get a bike ;)

It amazes me that they all sit in the same queues every day, whilst cyclists pootle on past  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 November, 2010, 03:30:22 pm
But cycling is dangerous!

And slow.  It's the cyclists taking up the whole road which is causing the traffic jams, isn't it?

Um...


...isn't it? ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 November, 2010, 03:37:05 pm
If i see an obstacle in the road, I like to stop & remove it where I can.  I've done this as a pedestrian, a cyclist, and a motorist.

The other day, I picked up a large bolt lying in an awkward position in an ASL. 

Today in Stockwell, I saw an obstruction.  It was star-shaped, about 6" across, and shiny.  Turned out to be the centre of a hubcap.

I picked it up, but, as I did, the lights changed, so I rode on into Stockwell carrying what must have looked like a hira shuriken. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 23 November, 2010, 04:40:31 pm
On the way home I will be collecting a pair of ski poles, I intend to lash them to the top tube with a bungy but I have a dilemma. Do I stick them out the front or the back? Both ways have a certain appeal.

(and don't be boring and tell me they don't HAVE to protrude)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 November, 2010, 04:41:16 pm
One each way just to be sure?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 23 November, 2010, 04:55:50 pm
Quote from: clarion on 23 November, 2010, 04:41:16 pm
One each way just to be sure?
Lash them across the rack (or on top of your saddle bag if you don't have one) - basket to the right. You'll get bags of passing space on the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 23 November, 2010, 05:40:14 pm
Not on my commute, but on my way back into the office after a visit, I had an unpleasant encounter with a removal lorry. My office is in the middle of an industrial estate, which we share with a tyre fitters, social work transport unit, and a removal firm.

I was heading south on the A6106 and having just passed under the railway bridge, was overtaken by a lorry from the removal firm. Which promptly pulled back in, indicating left and then started to turn left into the turning for the industrial estate. But it decided not to complete the move, and waited to let another removal lorry come out of the side road before completing the manoeuvre. Meanwhile I was stopped well back waiting for the road to clear.

Google Maps (http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=Duddingston+Park+South,+Edinburgh&sll=53.800651,-4.064941&sspn=13.992538,50.581055&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Duddingston+Park+S,+Edinburgh+EH15,+United+Kingdom&ll=55.936817,-3.114903&spn=0.001617,0.006174&t=h&z=18)

Luckily I a) had assumed it was going to turn left because I knew that was where they're based and b) have enough sense not to go up the left of a lorry. But if I hadn't known where the company are based, I might have assumed the left indicator was an indication of it pulling back in after the unnecessary overtake, rather than signalling a left turn. And then I might have died.

I dithered over whether or not to phone and make a complaint about the pointless overtake followed by the left turn because I really don't want to be a target for grumpy removal drivers. But in the end I decided I would, and made a point of saying that generally their drivers are good and it's the first incident I've had with them in 2 1/2 years.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tail End Charlie on 23 November, 2010, 09:37:04 pm
Sensible riding there and I think you did the right thing in phoning up. More of us should bother doing it. Well done.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 November, 2010, 10:50:02 pm
We have a large removal depot in town, with several companies sending trucks out into the rush hour.  Some are quite good, but a lot are awful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 November, 2010, 10:52:57 pm
THUNK!

That'll be another spoke gone, then.  >:(

This one just as I felt I'd warmed my legs up and was getting into my stride.  In the rain.  15km from home, and when I wanted to get home early.  After a crappy day.

So I had the joy of trying to true a 35 spoke wheel in the forecourt of a garage in Stockwell.  Splendid.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 23 November, 2010, 10:56:44 pm
Tonight was tailwind to compensate for this morning's headwind. More use of primary due to riding at 40kph. One motorist objected - I had moved as far left as possible (door zone at 35kph: no thanks) once i had been dropped by the car I was following but this wasn't enough. Once they were past they caught the car ahead in a few seconds; not much of a delay then.

Once I got home I was coughing quite a lot. But I feel almost normal now. Just in time for the really cold weather then!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 23 November, 2010, 11:13:19 pm
Quote from: clarion on 23 November, 2010, 10:52:57 pm
THUNK!

That'll be another spoke gone, then.  >:(

This one just as I felt I'd warmed my legs up and was getting into  my stride.  In the rain.  15km from home, and when I wanted to get home early.  After a crappy day.

So I had the joy of trying to true a 35 spoke wheel in the forecourt of a garage in Stockwell.  Splendid.

How do you manage it?
I've broken one spoke in the past 20-odd years.
Mind you that was in a 28 spoke time-trial wheel and I stopped dead as if someone had grabbed the back of the bike. The loss of tension threw the wheel into a total pringle.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 November, 2010, 11:34:12 pm
Quote from: alexb on 23 November, 2010, 11:13:19 pm

How do you manage it?

By having completely shit and woefully under-specced wheels on my bike.  I've replaced the front one, but the rear has been waiting till Mistress Charlotte can discipline me in the arcane arts of wheelbuilding to turn my boxful of Sturmey Archer goodness into a wheeeel.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 24 November, 2010, 07:50:00 am
Ooookaayyy. Well, you get plus points for cycling.  Always nice to meet someone else using a bike for routine to-ing and fro-ing.  You get "well hard" plus points for cycling without gloves in freezing weather,  you get an extra award of "insanely hard" points for cycling in a t-shirt in freezing weather. But.  You fucking imbecile you do NOT ride without lights in a black top, dark blue jeans on a dark blue bike in deepest darkest (and getting darker by the fucking minute) rural Gloucestershire miles and bloody miles from the county street light on what amounts to a single track rat run. You utter, utter, utter tosser.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 24 November, 2010, 09:28:03 am
Strange times.

Last night, Clapham Common Southside was taped off by Police from opposite Clapham Common Station along past Lambeth College.  Pedestrians were walking in the road (well, the cycle path), and cars were jammed up.

The woman in front of me was riding very slowly and inoffensively behind a ped.  When the woman walking with him noticed the cyclist behind and alerted him to her, he turned round and started a full on rant about cyclists, and how we should be in the cycle lane.

Um, we were. :-\

Fortunately, the woman cyclist just went round him and carried on.

Further up, I saw a B*W rolling forward in a queue, and not stop until he hit a Yaris.  I stopped, in case the woman driving the Yaris needed a witness, but I may as well have been invisible.  The B*W driver declared that there was 'no damage' (yeah, like you can see that in the dark ::-) ), and so she got back in her car and drove off.  Oh well, I wasn't needed after all :-\

This morning, there was standing traffic for a long way heading towards Mitcham.

Unrelated, there had been a big smash near Mitcham Common, with a 4x4 on the wrong side of a ditch. ???

After that, though, the traffic was not particularly heavy.  And, though there was barely a cyclist to be seen as far as Tooting Bec, it built up quite rapidly from there.

Good, fast ride.  I was naturally nervous about my rear wheel, but it was fine.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 24 November, 2010, 10:11:10 am
A bit wet and a nasty moment on a busy roundabout.  I presumably hit a diesel spill as my rear wheel did something quite twitchy

But I stayed upright and I have clean dry socks at work
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 24 November, 2010, 11:02:47 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 24 November, 2010, 10:11:10 am
A bit wet and a nasty moment on a busy roundabout.  I presumably hit a diesel spill as my rear wheel did something quite twitchy

But I stayed upright and I have clean dry socks at work

Sounds like you might need clean shorts too  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 24 November, 2010, 11:26:13 am
Cool and clear in York/Leeds. Odd patch of frost on the cycle paths, just enough to build up a white crust my tyres. Lovely cycling weather.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 24 November, 2010, 11:27:12 am
Light frost on the road this morning.  Cold & clear in Sarf Lahndan.

Great.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 24 November, 2010, 11:28:00 am
Quote from: clarion on 24 November, 2010, 09:28:03 am
Last night, Clapham Common Southside was taped off by Police from opposite Clapham Common Station along past Lambeth College.  Pedestrians were walking in the road (well, the cycle path), and cars were jammed up.

Odd, I didn't see anything later when I went across the Common, not the slightest suggestion that anything had been going on.

I didn't see this morning, I'm a bit enlurgied, so took the Tram/Tube in.  If I didn't need to do something I'd have stayed at home.  I quite possibly will tomorrow. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 24 November, 2010, 11:39:38 am
I've not cycle-commuted for a couple of weeks. Various reasons. Not least of which is that my Brompton is kaput - half of the hinge pin in the main frame joint seems to have gone awol. I noticed it while riding - the whole front end seemed to rotate under braking. Not a huge amount but enough to be alarming. Lucky I discovered it before the whole thing came to pieces. Could have been nasty.

Anyway, must get it sorted, and I'm feeling especially motivated to do so after this morning's debacle with public transport... only took me three hours to get to work.  >:(

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 24 November, 2010, 12:01:31 pm
Blazingly fast ride home last night, was nearing bonk onset when I reached home and my legs barely had the strength to carry my steed and me upstairs.

Much more civilised ride in this morning, in terms of my pace. However, a chauffeur driven black Mercedes S-Class with a small flag where the Merc badge would normally be on the bonnet nearly gave me flying lessons.

He pulled out of a side street on the opposite side of the road, through a gap in stationary traffic that was queuing in the same direction as I was travelling. He was aiming to enter a side street on 'my' side of the street and to do so would have to cross the bus/bike/mo'bike lane.

Naturally he just drove straight into the bus lane without looking, or even going slowly. Fast enough that when he e-stopped upon seeing me hurtling towards his bonnet that his car blocked the entire lane. In the midst of my own e-stop I managed to shout 'whooooooooa!' the classic call of a cyclist anticipating imminent pain, before the shiny Merc's front wing assisted my deceleration those final couple of mph before all stop.

Driver looks at me, I look at driver.

RandomScottishCyclist pulls up next to me and implores me "Just call him a c*nt and get on wi'it ya fanny, I'm late for work." But before I was able to put his advice into practice, the Mercedes accelerates hard and shoots off down the side street, the diplomatic numberplate completely failing to etch itself into my memory  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 24 November, 2010, 12:05:07 pm
No point in memorising it anyway; even more nothing would happen than normal.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 24 November, 2010, 12:27:43 pm
Quote from: Jacomus on 24 November, 2010, 12:01:31 pm
He pulled out of a side street on the opposite side of the road, through a gap in stationary traffic that was queuing in the same direction as I was travelling. He was aiming to enter a side street on 'my' side of the street and to do so would have to cross the bus/bike/mo'bike lane.

Gaps in queues of slow-moving/stationary traffic should be treated with caution, especially near junctions on your side of the road. The problem is that 999 times out of a 1000 doing the advisible thing of easing off a bit, just in case, proves unnecessary.

I know I take the (calculated) risk far too often.

He may have been 100% to blame, but the moral high ground is of little comfort to serious injuries.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 24 November, 2010, 12:41:10 pm
Quote from: clarion on 24 November, 2010, 12:05:07 pm
No point in memorising it anyway; even more nothing would happen than normal.

True, just take off his wing mirror.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 24 November, 2010, 01:30:19 pm
Quote from: clarion on 23 November, 2010, 11:34:12 pm
Quote from: alexb on 23 November, 2010, 11:13:19 pm

How do you manage it?

By having completely shit and woefully under-specced wheels on my bike.  I've replaced the front one, but the rear has been waiting till Mistress Charlotte can discipline me in the arcane arts of wheelbuilding to turn my boxful of Sturmey Archer goodness into a wheeeel.

I accidentally dismantled a wheel before removing the freewheel a few years ago.  After an attempt at rebuilding it by copying another wheel (which went very, very badly wrong), I used this: http://www.sheldonbrown.com/wheelbuild.html.  Worked like a treat first time.  I didn't need to get as far as truing it or putting it on a bike, but the finished result didn't look that far off. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tom_e on 24 November, 2010, 01:31:47 pm
Quote from: clarion on 23 November, 2010, 11:34:12 pm
By having completely shit and woefully under-specced wheels on my bike.  I've replaced the front one, but the rear has been waiting till Mistress Charlotte can discipline me in the arcane arts of wheelbuilding to turn my boxful of Sturmey Archer goodness into a wheeeel.

Far be it from me to worry about a tough northern fella, but can you not do our nerves a favour and wangle a quick personal service somewhere before that? 
I know yet another spoke off the rear almost certainly won't take you down, but pictures like this (http://s927.photobucket.com/albums/ad119/JeremyRuss/?action=view&current=CameraphoneNov21073.jpg) don't make the season's spirit...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 24 November, 2010, 01:33:19 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 24 November, 2010, 11:39:38 am
…this morning's debacle with public transport... only took me three hours to get to work.

Just to expand a little on this, because my experience may be helpful to others...

I missed the London Bridge train this morning so I took the HS1 train. Usually when I do this, I use the Boris Bikes to ride the rest of the way from St Pancras down to the office in Southwark.

My big mistake today was having the brainwave of getting off at Stratford and taking the Jubilee Line the rest of the way in. But it turns out that because the whole of Stratford is a building site, you can't transfer from Stratford International to Stratford Regional on foot - you have to take a convoluted five-minute bus ride. Then trek through a complex network of tunnels for another five minutes to find the Jubilee Line platform...

Does anyone know if it's possible to transfer on foot from Stratford International to the Jubilee Line via the DLR station?

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 24 November, 2010, 01:33:55 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 24 November, 2010, 11:39:38 am
I've not cycle-commuted for a couple of weeks. Various reasons. Not least of which is that my Brompton is kaput - half of the hinge pin in the main frame joint seems to have gone awol. I noticed it while riding - the whole front end seemed to rotate under braking. Not a huge amount but enough to be alarming. Lucky I discovered it before the whole thing came to pieces. Could have been nasty.

Anyway, must get it sorted, and I'm feeling especially motivated to do so after this morning's debacle with public transport... only took me three hours to get to work.  >:(

d.


Are you short of a commuter?  I've got one you can borrow providing you're 5'8" - 6'2", comfortable on a ss mtb (no suspension), able to pick up from SW19.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 24 November, 2010, 01:43:32 pm
d'Oh! :facepalm:

Citoyen, you need the forum bike!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 24 November, 2010, 01:49:48 pm
Winter has arrived... Last night, on the way home, I got my first face full of grit from the passing gritter... This morning I had the first of the white stuff land on my arm. OK it was melting as as it landed - but there was definitely a white blob on my jacket for at least a second.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 24 November, 2010, 01:55:11 pm
It got a bit chillier this morning didn' t it? I am still amazed by the amount of bare legs and arms on my commute, its just indecent. And I am convinced that there are more cyclists this winter than the last.

Tosser-of-the-day goes to the cyclist who moved along the inside of a lorry who was turning left. I cannot fathom how stupid this man was, nor why he thought it his right to give the lorry driver and I a rude gesture.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 24 November, 2010, 01:55:24 pm
Quote from: Chris L on 24 November, 2010, 01:33:55 pm
Are you short of a commuter?  I've got one you can borrow providing you're 5'8" - 6'2", comfortable on a ss mtb (no suspension), able to pick up from SW19.

Very kind of you, Chris. Is it a folder? That's what I'm short of while the Brompton is out of action.

I still have three non-folding bikes at my disposal, but I've given up taking non-folders on the train because station staff at London Bridge have been getting arsey about bikes lately (presumably a directive from on-high) and I don't want to risk a fine. (OK, rules is rules, but there's always plenty of space on my train and the on-board staff never bat an eyelid - why can't the station staff be allowed to use some discretion?)

I would leave the bike locked up at my home station but I'm not at all confident of coming back to find it still in one piece. And then I'd be faced with walking three miles home in the cold and dark carrying the mangled remains of my bike.

One option would be taking a non-folder on the train, getting off at Bromley and riding the rest of the way in, which I'm very happy to do in principle, but it means setting off that bit earlier in the morning, which is easier said than done at this time of year...

Another option is to ride from home to the next station down the line, which has slightly more secure bike storage facilities, but that still requires setting off a bit earlier.

I think the answer to my problems is really just better discipline about getting out of bed in the morning.

And to be fair, I can't really complain - no one forced me to live where I do now.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 24 November, 2010, 02:00:37 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 24 November, 2010, 01:55:11 pm
Tosser-of-the-day goes to the cyclist who moved along the inside of a lorry who was turning left. I cannot fathom how stupid this man was, nor why he thought it his right to give the lorry driver and I a rude gesture.

I saw one of those the other day. I was waiting to cross the road and there was a lorry at the lights, signalling left, when I saw a cyclist coming up the inside of it. The lights changed and the lorry started to move. I really thought I was about to witness something very horrible, but fortunately the cyclist was able to hop onto the pavement.

She then started making gestures at the lorry driver as if it was his fault. Unbelievable idiocy.  :facepalm:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adam on 24 November, 2010, 02:05:50 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 24 November, 2010, 01:33:19 pm

Does anyone know if it's possible to transfer on foot from Stratford International to the Jubilee Line via the DLR station?

d.



No.  There just wasn't any normal person accessible road access to the International station.

Last year I got off at the normal station and wanted to cycle to the International one.  I was told, politely but firmly, by 2 officials that I had to put the bike on the transfer bus, as it wasn't allowed for security reasons for me to cycle or even walk between the two.  The bus driver actually was perfectly happy about me getting on the bus, and clearly was used to other cyclists using the service.

It was a real pain though with all the walking along tunnels, up stairs, down stairs, along platforms to actually get to the bus.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 24 November, 2010, 02:06:24 pm
YHPM, Citoyen
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 24 November, 2010, 02:13:56 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 24 November, 2010, 01:55:24 pm
Quote from: Chris L on 24 November, 2010, 01:33:55 pm
Are you short of a commuter?  I've got one you can borrow providing you're 5'8" - 6'2", comfortable on a ss mtb (no suspension), able to pick up from SW19.

Very kind of you, Chris. Is it a folder?...

You're welcome.  I'm afraid not.  It's an old aluminium MTB that I've converted to single speed.  It looks like hell 'cos it's so old, but it's very light and it's got lovely Miche hubs, which are it's best feature.  In other words, it's OK to lock up somewhere, but it's nice to ride.  Used to be my bike for going to the squash club till I got my Brompton.

Quote
I still have three non-folding bikes at my disposal, but I've given up taking non-folders on the train because station staff at London Bridge have been getting arsey about bikes lately (presumably a directive from on-high) and I don't want to risk a fine...

And the stop before that's Bromley, right?  No chance of jumping on the stopping service and treating yourself to the attentions of the bohemian guards at New Cross?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 24 November, 2010, 03:20:13 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 24 November, 2010, 01:55:24 pm
I still have three non-folding bikes at my disposal, but I've given up taking non-folders on the train because station staff at London Bridge have been getting arsey about bikes lately (presumably a directive from on-high) and I don't want to risk a fine. (OK, rules is rules, but there's always plenty of space on my train and the on-board staff never bat an eyelid - why can't the station staff be allowed to use some discretion?)

Hang on, are you saying there's some rule about bicycles on trains at London Bridge?  I use it occasionally, since it's one of the lines which goes straight to East Croydon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 24 November, 2010, 04:15:56 pm
Quote from: TimO on 24 November, 2010, 03:20:13 pm
Hang on, are you saying there's some rule about bicycles on trains at London Bridge?  I use it occasionally, since it's one of the lines which goes straight to East Croydon.

You aren't supposed to bring a non-folding bike on a train into London termini arriving before 10am. Nor can you take a bike on a train out of London termini between 4 and 7pm.

However, it's only recently that they seem to have started raising an objection at London Bridge when I've arrived before 10am with a non-folding bike, so I assume there's been some kind of directive from the bosses to clamp down on scofflaws like me. And I've heard from a friend that they're being similarly strict at Cannon Street - this friend has a folder and they insist he folds it before letting him through the barrier, which is just ludicrous.

Thing is, by the time I've arrived at London Bridge, what can they do? Make me wait behind the barrier until gone 10am? Put me on the first train back home? Usually they just have a moan and let me out. The on-board staff could enforce the rule if they wanted to but they've never seemed too concerned. Mainly because it's not a problem.

I was once threatened with an £80 fine for arriving at St Pancras before 10am with a non-folding bike. I don't know if the threat would have been enforceable but I'm not sure I want to take a chance.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 24 November, 2010, 06:14:32 pm
Ah right, I've only ever used London Bridge at weekends, or very very occasionally stupidly early (before the 7am cutoff if I'm reading things correctly), so I guess I'm OK then!

The a-to-b website says of Southern, at some locations (including London Bridge):

Quote
Folding bikes are carried free of charge without restriction, but from 2006, folding bikes 'bigger than a Brompton' have occasionally been turned away and Brompton owners forced to fold their bikes at the barrier and carry them to the train, particularly at London Bridge, Victoria and Brighton. This tough policy now seems to have been dropped, but if you have problems on Southern territory, please do let us know.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 24 November, 2010, 06:21:34 pm
Wow, it was cold this morning, -4 in the lanes and below freezing all the way.
However it was dry and clear and just glorious to roll along in the dawn under a near-full moon.

My car driving colleagues were all chittering and describing how cold their dashboard thermometers showed.

They have no idea what they're missing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 24 November, 2010, 06:26:07 pm
Are you using the trike Gordy?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 24 November, 2010, 06:33:54 pm
Quote from: jogler on 24 November, 2010, 06:26:07 pm
Are you using the trike Gordy?

No. I've taken the dynohub off it so it isn't so useful as a commuter now. I'm on the Ridgeback Alfine mostly ATM.

And I passed 6000 miles for 2010 today !   :) :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 24 November, 2010, 07:53:36 pm
Beautiful clear, crisp night tonight. Wish I was on the bike. :(

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 24 November, 2010, 08:14:29 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 24 November, 2010, 12:27:43 pm
Quote from: Jacomus on 24 November, 2010, 12:01:31 pm
He pulled out of a side street on the opposite side of the road, through a gap in stationary traffic that was queuing in the same direction as I was travelling. He was aiming to enter a side street on 'my' side of the street and to do so would have to cross the bus/bike/mo'bike lane.

Gaps in queues of slow-moving/stationary traffic should be treated with caution, especially near junctions on your side of the road. The problem is that 999 times out of a 1000 doing the advisible thing of easing off a bit, just in case, proves unnecessary.

I know I take the (calculated) risk far too often.

He may have been 100% to blame, but the moral high ground is of little comfort to serious injuries.

Wise words, ones that I do practice, though today the vehicle creating the gap was a truck I.e. Zero visibility beyond it.

It, and your post, certainly has made me think again. I know my commute like the back of my hand - here we have a situation that I could have predicted but didn't. The only reason I got away with it was because the roads were dry. Had it have been wet I would have likely seen the inside of an ambulance.

Scary.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 24 November, 2010, 08:21:23 pm
Quote from: Jacomus on 24 November, 2010, 12:01:31 pm

RandomScottishCyclist pulls up next to me and implores me "Just call him a c*nt and get on wi'it ya fanny, I'm late for work."
That has made me laugh a lot. If we had a post of the day category for remarks made by people not on this forum, I would nominate it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 24 November, 2010, 08:27:16 pm
Quote from: Kirst on 24 November, 2010, 08:21:23 pm
Quote from: Jacomus on 24 November, 2010, 12:01:31 pm

RandomScottishCyclist pulls up next to me and implores me "Just call him a c*nt and get on wi'it ya fanny, I'm late for work."
That has made me laugh a lot

Likewise  ;D ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 24 November, 2010, 08:30:31 pm
I think RandomScottishCyclist was RandomGlaswegianCyclist.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 24 November, 2010, 08:48:00 pm
Wasn't SOTR, was it?  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 25 November, 2010, 07:29:37 am
On the bus, for the first time in something like 8 months, because we haz sno!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 25 November, 2010, 08:45:55 am
#studdedtyresftw
http://twitpic.com/39ypdf (http://twitpic.com/39ypdf)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 November, 2010, 09:38:36 am
We haz no sno but we haz lotz of blo.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 25 November, 2010, 11:11:37 am
Yes, it was cold in Devon but there was only a little bit of ice on the roads: it was dry last night

My Alfine hub was playing up again.  This time I can only get gears 6-7-8 which are not suitable for hills.  The lowest is the 6 which is 73".  Just as well I have good legs this week.  I have some suitable oil for servicing the Alfine now and have looked at the instructions
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 25 November, 2010, 09:22:13 pm
Cold cold cold today.  Must dig out those winter.ll tights now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 25 November, 2010, 09:30:36 pm
Very cold on the Peaks this evening...
-4C with everything crispy frozen under a clear cold sky.
10-15mph againsterly all the way.  :P
Wearing lots of layers, two buffs, double gloves, double overshoes - just about warm enough...  :)
No snow - only a few flakes here and there.
May take the snow bike in tomorrow for the first time since Feb to make sure its running OK - if I feel fit in the morning, that is...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adam on 25 November, 2010, 10:18:23 pm
I spent 10 minutes this morning putting on and adjusting the spare wheels with the Marathon studs on, in view of the large amounts of ice around here, and in preparation of the massive amounts of snow expected (possibly).

Then about 15 minutes in, after going over a big bump, the Cateye 1100 bounces off the back, spilling the batteries and the cover.  The main body gets hit by the bumper of the car behind, then bounced back up the road by a car going the other way. 

After waiting for a gap in the traffic, I pick up all the bits and find...................






nothing's broken and it all works.

Tough things, these Cateyes.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 25 November, 2010, 10:29:05 pm
Quote from: Gordy on 24 November, 2010, 06:21:34 pm
Wow, it was cold this morning, -4 in the lanes and below freezing all the way.

Heh ;)

(http://i144.photobucket.com/albums/r200/iddu/20101125%20-%20misc/DSC00004.jpg)
Icycle & Icicle ;D

(http://i144.photobucket.com/albums/r200/iddu/20101125%20-%20misc/DSC00001.jpg)
The Spacegrip proved itself to be made of cheese, breaking while bombing down Ashbury - lucky the GPS strap saved the Solidlight & GPS from bouncing down the road.

(http://i144.photobucket.com/albums/r200/iddu/20101125%20-%20misc/DSC00002.jpg)
The replacement certainly (& finally) looks more robust.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 25 November, 2010, 10:38:50 pm
Quote from: iddu on 25 November, 2010, 10:29:05 pm
The replacement certainly (& finally) looks more robust.
What make is that?  Where can I get one?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 25 November, 2010, 10:44:59 pm
Quote from: rower40 on 25 November, 2010, 10:38:50 pm
What make is that?  Where can I get one?
SpaceGrip (again), sourced from LBS; they've obviously got fed up with reports on the metal strap.

The middle bolt fixings are a bit stupid though - you can only use short arm 90-degree allen key on them, & you should take apart on purchase and Loctite them; front arm worked loose on the way home...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 25 November, 2010, 11:04:05 pm
Quote from: vorsprung on 25 November, 2010, 11:11:37 am
Yes, it was cold in Devon but there was only a little bit of ice on the roads: it was dry last night

My Alfine hub was playing up again.  This time I can only get gears 6-7-8 which are not suitable for hills.  The lowest is the 6 which is 73".  Just as well I have good legs this week.  I have some suitable oil for servicing the Alfine now and have looked at the instructions

I'm having similar problems with my Alfine in the cold. Happily changes up - won't change down. I'm not certain if it is the hub itself, or possibly water freezing in the cable. I thought it was the internal grease getting too stiff. But this morning, it was fine as I set off. Gave problems from halfway through the commute, then was fine when I got on the bike again this evening until halfway home. It seems to be too binary around 0C to be sticky grease.

I'm going to try squirting some gt85 into the cable as a first step - if no improvement, then I have the new grease, and the end cap removal tool - all I have to do is commit to disassembling it.

Need to change the chain on the backup MTB first though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 26 November, 2010, 08:57:45 am
Hmm.  Face-scrunchingly cold when I set out at 7:30 this morning; took half the journey for my face and ears to warm up.  Thankfully, the frost was almost exclusively on the parked cars, not the road surface.

I passed somebody with the oddest riding style I've ever seen.  He was riding a flat-bar hybrid but his back was almost horizontal and his arms bent, so that I thought he was in the drops.  His face was screwed up with effort, but his legs were flailing around in a tiny gear so that his forward motion was very slow.  It reminded me of nothing so much as someone learning to swim, flailing randomly with his legs while clutching a float to his chest and trying not to get his face wet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 November, 2010, 09:02:33 am
Cold but fast on my early commute this morning.

I was warm enough.

Two pairs of socks. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 26 November, 2010, 09:04:25 am
No commute today as I have the day off  :smug:

I may take Regina out for a spin on the ice later...  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul D on 26 November, 2010, 09:09:11 am
Ditto no commute, day off. Studded tyre bike refit began 30 minutes ago.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 26 November, 2010, 09:21:53 am
Lovely bright morning just a degree or two below comfortable. Used head band so ears stayed warm.  Slightly thicker socks meant toes stayed warm. I could feel the warmth of the marginally higher sun as I arrived at work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 26 November, 2010, 09:23:08 am
-4 all the way in. Coldest day so far, but I was almost too warm, and ended up taking off my overmitts after 12miles.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RJ on 26 November, 2010, 09:46:22 am
We're moving office.  I'm on my way to the Central Library shortly to work from there and use their reference collection (or nip across the road to the NLS ...).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 26 November, 2010, 09:58:48 am
Cold again, as cold as yesterday but brighter and drier and less ice

First proper sharp puncture in 14,300km for the Marathon+  I'm had deflations before but they were all due to duff rim tape or pinching the tyre when putting it on

It was a huge thorn which missed the big blue belt under the central tread and managed to get through the upper edge of the sidewall
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 26 November, 2010, 01:21:26 pm
INTENSE WINTER SUN THROUGH THE TREES STROBING EFFECT.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 26 November, 2010, 01:24:15 pm
Quote from: iddu on 25 November, 2010, 10:29:05 pm
(http://i144.photobucket.com/albums/r200/iddu/20101125%20-%20misc/DSC00004.jpg)

Is that snot?  :-X
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 26 November, 2010, 01:49:07 pm
It was veh cold.  Below freezing.  Winter longs, merino base layer, merino winter socks.

Lobster gloves not up to it.

Overtaken by an ambulance, friendly toot toot as I pulled to the side on a roundabout to let them pass.

Saw some blue flashy lights on Kings Hedges Road.  Here's why:
Cambridge News | Latest News From In & Around Cambridge City | Latest Sports, Jobs & Business News in Cambridge Newspaper | Bomb squad called to Cambridge street
 (http://www.cambridge-news.co.uk/Home/Bomb-squad-called-to-Cambridge-street.htm)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 26 November, 2010, 04:30:59 pm
now snowing in Taunton
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 26 November, 2010, 04:58:16 pm
Quote from: vorsprung on 26 November, 2010, 04:30:59 pm
now snowing in Taunton

And so it is, lucky you!  Raintoday.co.uk - awesome site.  I have the premium so you can see where it's raining/snowing/hailing/etc. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 26 November, 2010, 08:20:18 pm
Argh. Friday evening 7.30pm riding home. What really ippses me off is the inconsiserate behaviour seems to get *worse* in these conditions. Last night I was overtaken by a taxi at a mini roundabout just before a pinch point. As there is a speed cushion in the pinch he braked and I had to too to avoid rear ending him. This evening I was across the mini roundabout and a car came up, having driven across the central circle, had to brake as they didn't even manage to get the nose ahead, and then overtook just before the next pinch point, yes forcing me to brake as they slow to a crawl (completely unnecessary by the way). It was sub zero by the way. At this point words were had.

Anyway, I made it to Colhams lane. A car overtakes, then slows to turn right. I see that there is room to pass on the left. My planning is interrupted as the next car races past at 40mph+, overtaking maybe 50 yards at most from the clearly stationary car ahead. They braked hard *after* having got past, I hoped for a bang to be honest.  Is that wrong?

It's going to be like this til March. :( On top of all the obviously crap driving the general behaviour is pretty poor at the moment.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 26 November, 2010, 08:44:08 pm
It's always like this in the run up to Christmas, but it usualy suddenly gets better after New Year's day.
At least you know what to expect at the mini roundabout/pinch point combo so can be ready for it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 26 November, 2010, 08:48:22 pm
Quote from: simonp on 26 November, 2010, 08:20:18 pm

It's going to be like this til March.
March 2199


But you're right, the worse the conditions, the worse the behaviour. At least that's how it always seems to me.


And WTF is it about human nature, that  means you KNOW that the arsehole driver who pulls hard into the left (coz that's where he wants to turn) can be depended upon to swing wide to the right before he turns left?

(And yes, I know the one is a result of the other)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 26 November, 2010, 08:54:21 pm
Quote from: teethgrinder on 26 November, 2010, 08:44:08 pm
It's always like this in the run up to Christmas, but it usualy suddenly gets better after New Year's day.
At least you know what to expect at the mini roundabout/pinch point combo so can be ready for it.

It's been going on for years.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 26 November, 2010, 09:13:19 pm
Quote from: Chris S on 26 November, 2010, 01:24:15 pm
Is that snot?  :-X
Naw, the melt's clear ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 26 November, 2010, 09:25:49 pm
I had a stunning commute in wicked cold and clear air this morning.

But it's a worry when youe can hear the scrape, scrape of the windscreen wipers over ice of the following cars.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 26 November, 2010, 10:49:09 pm
This evening I set off from work wrapped up well for the conditions.  Its snowing but the roads are mostly clear.  I stayed a little further out from the kerb than usual as that contained slippery mush.  As I turned into a cycle path section that was thin snow that I crossed easily then continued through Pencoed and thought I was going to have a pleasant ride home, then after Llanharan I met stopped traffic. Normally I would just filter past such a queue but the snow lying in the centre of the road looked uneven and a bad choice so I sat in the queue for a while. Eventually I lost patience and filtered down the inside of the vehicles until I got to the dual carriage way outside L'Oreal (llantrisant) and moved quite quickly to the roundabout where I escaped the Pontypridd bound traffic.  I continue steadily through Pontyclun and Miskin and crossed the queue of traffic heading North which was about to meet the queue I had been stuck in.  I continued along the A4119.  The A4119 crosses the M4 in Capel Llaniltern where I observed there was a queue for the Coryton interchange several miles away.  Not far now.

I turned into the Radyr farm estate as my preferred bad weather route.  As I climbed over the rise I found the road full of abandoned cars.  I dismounted the compressed snow had turned to ice and I was not going to ride on it. I remounted when I reached Radyr proper. These roads had been gritted. I road up Windsor road but at Drysgol road I decided to walk again.  This 1 in 11 is tough enough with traction.  I did a mixture of walking and riding the rest of the way home.  Very treacherous the melted snow was refreezing into uneven ice.

Probably not the best night to take an extra three quarters of a hour.
        
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 27 November, 2010, 05:17:35 am
I stopped to give blood on the way home. After the deed and the usual tea and biscuit, I was surprised that I got so cold in the 2 1/2 mile ride home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 27 November, 2010, 06:50:28 pm
Quote from: vorsprung on 26 November, 2010, 04:30:59 pm
now snowing in Taunton

I left work 10 minutes early.  The traffic was gridlocked all through Taunton.  It was snowing but not settling on the road.  Same on the A38 to Wellington.  When I turned off the A38 to take the easy route into the Culm Valley as the road went up the road did have a little patchy snow on it but nothing to worry about.
Once I got over the top it was just wet , more sleet than snow
I had to keep stopping to clean my glasses
I pushed the bike up our drive as the bricks were covered in snow
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 27 November, 2010, 09:26:53 pm
A broken rear derailleur spring.  I was wondering why my bike would only change up when in the big ring and going over some bouncy ground.  Plus it wouldn't go above 5 on the back.  Just replaced it with the old one ready for tomorrow's commute.

Oh, and a bit of driver re-education pending upload, that'll have to wait till Monday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: NeilP on 28 November, 2010, 09:42:10 pm
Quote from: iddu on 22 November, 2010, 09:53:40 am
Quote from: oxoneil on 20 November, 2010, 11:04:15 am
...what are your start and finish points?
Lambourn / South Marston Ind. Est.
Quote from: oxoneil on 20 November, 2010, 11:04:15 am
What a great route...
Mmm - not as many variations as to Newbury, as the roads diverge somewhat further; tracks can be a bit claggy when wet.

Along here then  :thumbsup:

(http://web6.twitpic.com/img/200117258-3f9082fddb1dc6b2df403945cbe3cb5d.4cf2c9d8-scaled.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 29 November, 2010, 10:39:53 am
A ride home from a night shift, following a big snow storm.  I walked some of it, because it was just too busy, with drivers sliding everywhere, going too fast; but there were a few cars that had broken down in the carriageway as well.  This, it would seem, is not a problem, but a cyclist who needs to use the clear section of tarmac where the car tyres have been, is a legitimate target for abuse, screaming, leaning on car horns ...

I wasn't holding anyone up.  I was riding in the traffic, at the same speed as the cars, and meeting the same cars at every junction/traffic light.

I feel really fed up now.  If I could've got a lift home, I would, but no-one was going my way this morning and the buses are cancelled.  I hate conflict and being shouted at by strange aggressive men in vans.  It's horrible.

At least the bike is safely home now, hopefully it won't be spending a month in the bike locker at work like it did last year.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 29 November, 2010, 10:42:21 am
Stopped at a junction to cross Brixton Road and the block to my left said "That is a very yellow bike".  Not much I could say other than "Of course, it'd be faster if it were red."

I wore Madison D'Arcs today, to try and protect my eyes from the dry, cold wind.  Unfortunately, they tend to steam up while I'm stopped at lights and clear up a little after.  This caused me not to see ice around a drain just beyond one set of lights; the result must have looked just like the effect when Lucy pulls the ball away just before Charlie Brown kicks it.  Although I did not say "Good Grief".  Came down hard on my right thigh and elbow.  Fortunately, nothing but a couple of bruises and I went straight on. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ScumOfTheRoad on 29 November, 2010, 10:49:29 am
Quote from: Lindagordinho on 29 November, 2010, 10:39:53 am
I hate conflict and being shouted at by strange aggressive men in vans. 

Sad men with small willies.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 29 November, 2010, 10:49:54 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 29 November, 2010, 10:42:21 am
Stopped at a junction to cross Brixton Road and the block to my left said "That is a very yellow bike".  Not much I could say other than "Of course, it'd be faster if it were red."

I wore Madison D'Arcs today, to try and protect my eyes from the dry, cold wind.  Unfortunately, they tend to steam up while I'm stopped at lights and clear up a little after.  This caused me not to see ice around a drain just beyond one set of lights; the result must have looked just like the effect when Lucy pulls the ball away just before Charlie Brown kicks it.  Although I did not say "Good Grief".  Came down hard on my right thigh and elbow.  Fortunately, nothing but a couple of bruises and I went straight on. 


Is the bike in questions a flo-yellow steel fixie kinda thing, maybe with Bridgestone or something similar written on it? If so, I've seen you and thought, 'bloody hell, that's a *yellow* bike'.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 29 November, 2010, 10:51:07 am
Ouch, itsbruce.  Take care of youself.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 29 November, 2010, 10:57:55 am
Quote from: Jacomus on 29 November, 2010, 10:49:54 am

Is the bike in questions a flo-yellow steel fixie kinda thing, maybe with Bridgestone or something similar written on it? If so, I've seen you and thought, 'bloody hell, that's a *yellow* bike'.

It has "Madison" written on it but otherwise that does sound like me (my bike, that is).  It used to be even more yellow (http://www.flickr.com/photos/itsbruce/4959871528/in/set-72157624385105316/) but I changed the bar tape back to something more restrained (http://www.flickr.com/photos/itsbruce/5166976292/in/set-72157624385105316/) ;)

I shall be taking greater care - time to switch to grippier tyres and wear a head torch at nights.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 29 November, 2010, 11:00:08 am
Shame Linda, that's upsetting. I'm with Scum, they were wrong and you are right.  Mwa for Bruce.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 29 November, 2010, 11:02:23 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 29 November, 2010, 10:42:21 am
Stopped at a junction to cross Brixton Road and the block to my left said "That is a very yellow bike".  Not much I could say other than "Of course, it'd be faster if it were red."

I wore Madison D'Arcs today, to try and protect my eyes from the dry, cold wind.  Unfortunately, they tend to steam up while I'm stopped at lights and clear up a little after.  This caused me not to see ice around a drain just beyond one set of lights; the result must have looked just like the effect when Lucy pulls the ball away just before Charlie Brown kicks it.  Although I did not say "Good Grief".  Came down hard on my right thigh and elbow.  Fortunately, nothing but a couple of bruises and I went straight on. 


Bruce, a similar event led to me buying studded tyres this year.  I'm glad there wasn't more damage.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 29 November, 2010, 11:03:11 am
Yes, I'd missed your post, Linda, but that is really shitty behaviour.  I think we can all expect more in the next few months :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 29 November, 2010, 11:19:49 am
Coldest morning yet

I was wearing a scarf and two long sleeved base layers (plus coat gloves etc) but arrived at work with no sweat being made.  Usually I wear a little too much and I'm damp at work

Mostly the roads were clear and even dry but I did walk around some ice

One dicey moment on a descent where there was ice across most of the road as I approached at 20mph+ But when I was right on top of it I could see there was a big gap right where I was going straight

DHL for the ice tyres from Germany says "27.11.10 02:40 Hours    Köln, DE, The shipment is being transported to the destination country"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: geoff on 29 November, 2010, 01:53:43 pm
A horrid 8 miles in today: Dry? yes. Ice? not much. Problem was the general minus 10 - ness of it all plus a huge tailback, necessitating  a couple of miles of riding in the (not completely empty) oncoming  lane. I can't do alert and frozen at the same time it seems. Tomorrow I think I'll take the long way in (MTB across the fields).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 29 November, 2010, 02:10:56 pm
I was as nervous as a virgin at a prison rodeo this morning, snow lay on the quiet roads and slush on the main roads, terrified of slipping on the ice. Haven't missed a day's commute since January but may have to get the bus tomorrow if this carries on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 29 November, 2010, 02:38:50 pm
Quote from: Jacomus on 29 November, 2010, 10:49:54 am
Is the bike in questions a flo-yellow steel fixie kinda thing, maybe with Bridgestone or something similar written on it?

Was just thinking about this:  "Bridgestone?  Madison?  Not very similar.  Hang on, hang on...  The Bridges of Madison County!"

Have you just outed yourself as a reader of chick lit (or watcher of chick flicks)?


I was delayed in changing out of my lycra, this morning, because of a network incident.  When I finally got around to removing my bib tights, some skin from my thigh came with them.  Aargh.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 29 November, 2010, 02:46:25 pm
Got hit by a heavy snow flurry about 10km in. In the space of two corners the road disappeared under settling snow. I stopped for 5 minutes, and started to ride home. Suddenly the sun broke through and the road started to clear. I was considering heading back on to work when a postie came riding towards me. I turned straight around and headed back in. Average temp (according to sporttracks) over the 33km was -1.3c. By the time I got to work, the top half of my waterbottle was full of ice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 29 November, 2010, 03:27:44 pm
I managed OK this morning on the studded tyres, but they still can't cope with frozen ridges. Some very nervous wobbly moments ensued, but I didn't actually fall off.

Sliding about on fresh snow at 10am on Saturday morning is a hoot, but trying to get to work on the same stuff at 7am on a Monday is grim. Strange, that.  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 29 November, 2010, 04:29:05 pm
Quote from: Lindagordinho on 29 November, 2010, 10:39:53 am
...a legitimate target for abuse, screaming, leaning on car horns ...

I wasn't holding anyone up.  I was riding in the traffic, at the same speed as the cars, and meeting the same cars at every junction/traffic light.

I feel really fed up now.  If I could've got a lift home, I would, but no-one was going my way this morning and the buses are cancelled.  I hate conflict and being shouted at by strange aggressive men in vans.  It's horrible.

They were just embarassed because you are clearly much, much, much harder than them and you showed them up for the bunch of lightweight wusses that they are.

I always used to threaten to get Boudica-esque blades fitted to the wheels of the buggy to contend with the insanity of York streets in the tourist season.  Perhaps, in the same style, you need even spikier winter tyres  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 29 November, 2010, 04:40:23 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 29 November, 2010, 10:42:21 am
I wore Madison D'Arcs today, to try and protect my eyes from the dry, cold wind.  Unfortunately, they tend to steam up while I'm stopped at lights and clear up a little after.  This caused me not to see ice around a drain just beyond one set of lights; the result must have looked just like the effect when Lucy pulls the ball away just before Charlie Brown kicks it.  Although I did not say "Good Grief".  Came down hard on my right thigh and elbow.  Fortunately, nothing but a couple of bruises and I went straight on. 

Try putting a squirt of Pledge onto the lenses and polishing it off gently. The silicon is supposed to disperse water. It works really well on rainy days, might just work for the fogging problem as well.

Disclaimer: My glasses rarely fog up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 29 November, 2010, 05:20:31 pm
Quote from: alexb on 29 November, 2010, 04:40:23 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 29 November, 2010, 10:42:21 am
I wore Madison D'Arcs today, to try and protect my eyes from the dry, cold wind.  Unfortunately, they tend to steam up while I'm stopped at lights and clear up a little after.  This caused me not to see ice around a drain just beyond one set of lights; the result must have looked just like the effect when Lucy pulls the ball away just before Charlie Brown kicks it.  Although I did not say "Good Grief".  Came down hard on my right thigh and elbow.  Fortunately, nothing but a couple of bruises and I went straight on. 

Try putting a squirt of Pledge onto the lenses and polishing it off gently. The silicon is supposed to disperse water. It works really well on rainy days, might just work for the fogging problem as well.

Disclaimer: My glasses rarely fog up.

I used to have Madison D'Arcs, and nothing I did stopped them steaming up. They would even do it if my speed dropped below 6-8mph.

I solved it by getting new glasses.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 30 November, 2010, 08:16:53 am
Three words: Exhilaratingly bad weather


I arrived at work like this --->  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pippa on 30 November, 2010, 08:22:21 am
I wish I had worn my ski goggles.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Seldom Killer on 30 November, 2010, 09:43:01 am
12 miles, an hour and a half.

I nipped out to the end of our drive to check and the traffic was moving well, alas by the time I'd got back to the house and saddled up and walked back to the A57 it was a parking lot.

It remained that way across JNCT 31 of the M1 and as far as the eye could see so I abandoned the bypass and went through Aston. Getting up into Handsworth was proving difficult, not because of the icy roads so much as the long string of driving fail. Fortunately half way up someone in a small car was busy trying to burn off his front tyres and ahead of him the road was clear giving me a clear shot to the top.

Much faster after that save a couple of tricky lights and junctions and into my nice warm office just on time. Hoping things will be a lot clearer on the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 30 November, 2010, 09:44:44 am
I had my first cycle commute since 11th November thsi morning.

Snow on the side roads, with sleet in the air.

Nut shrinkingly cold temperatures.

Eejits in 'cages' taking me not riding dead centre of the cariageway as an invitation to overtake.

Foggy glasses.

Loved everyminute of it :thumbsup:

Fuzzy is back on the road :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cyclone on 30 November, 2010, 09:53:50 am
No snow, a few patches of ice and road populated by numbskulls- cut up 5, 5 times !and one t|**t, no make that 2 pulled straight out in front of me (at 17mph) !

Tempted to post on Rant thread,but the students will see the language if I dont watch it.... ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 30 November, 2010, 09:58:51 am
Snow but no ice.  It was quite fun, but I didn't like the way many of the drivers were behaving.  Idiots.

Far fewer cyclists on the road :( , but that meant fewer RLJs, which was nice. :)

snow in the eyes made it difficult in places, but the larger flakes were easier to deal with.

Cold, wet, tired, but happy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 30 November, 2010, 10:32:31 am
Average temp of 0.5c. No ice, some unmelted snow. Nice ride in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 30 November, 2010, 10:34:45 am
Snow, slush on the major roads. Some packed down to ice on the minor roads. I'd left the rear tyre a bit soft so it bottommed a few times but fortunately was able to borrow a pump and get a bit more air in ready for the journey home.

..d
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 30 November, 2010, 10:39:44 am
Quote from: clarion on 30 November, 2010, 09:58:51 am
Snow but no ice.  It was quite fun, but I didn't like the way many of the drivers were behaving.  Idiots.

Far fewer cyclists on the road :( , but that meant fewer RLJs, which was nice. :)

snow in the eyes made it difficult in places, but the larger flakes were easier to deal with.

Cold, wet, tired, but happy.

+ 1. Although the drivers on my commute were behaving themselves.

I got into work having worn 2 pairs of socks as well as two pairs of overshoes and my toes were still wet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 30 November, 2010, 10:44:00 am
Great commute today... :thumbsup:

Although I did have to laugh at the University cycling club chaps (who are Cambridge's equivalent of London Dynamo riders) who were trying to negotiate the ice of the DNA path on slick 23s.  :facepalm:

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 30 November, 2010, 10:52:44 am
Quote from: Regulator on 30 November, 2010, 10:44:00 am
Great commute today... :thumbsup:

Although I did have to laugh at the University cycling club chaps (who are Cambridge's equivalent of London Dynamo riders) who were trying to negotiate the ice of the DNA path on slick 23s.  :facepalm:



Did you use a recumbent trike?  That's good for the ultimate snow/ice smugness factor.   ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 30 November, 2010, 11:05:45 am
Quote from: Wendy on 30 November, 2010, 10:52:44 am
Quote from: Regulator on 30 November, 2010, 10:44:00 am
Great commute today... :thumbsup:

Although I did have to laugh at the University cycling club chaps (who are Cambridge's equivalent of London Dynamo riders) who were trying to negotiate the ice of the DNA path on slick 23s.  :facepalm:



Did you use a recumbent trike?  That's good for the ultimate snow/ice smugness factor.   ;D

Yep.  Regina has a nice knobbly tyre on the back and was regally sailing through the ice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Seldom Killer on 30 November, 2010, 11:11:03 am
Quote from: clarion on 30 November, 2010, 09:58:51 am

Far fewer cyclists on the road :( , but that meant fewer RLJs, which was nice. :)


I admit to some RLJing this morning. Just where peds had pushed the button and then realised that there was either no traffic or the traffic was already stationary. That and where gridlock rendered traffic lights meaningless. I considered avoiding stopping and starting again justifiable under the circumstances.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 30 November, 2010, 11:22:07 am
Quote from: Regulator on 30 November, 2010, 10:44:00 am
Great commute today... :thumbsup:

Although I did have to laugh at the University cycling club chaps (who are Cambridge's equivalent of London Dynamo riders) who were trying to negotiate the ice of the DNA path on slick 23s.  :facepalm:


PMSL - that path is lethal with slicks when it rains, let alone a light frost. Ice would be really 'fun'.

We have a chap up from Cambridge - he came out on our flat club ride and thought it was hilly. He then discovered the real hills on the hilly ride. When he heads back home for the holidays he will be laughing - not notice the slight drags in the fens.

Local riders are very cautious with ice after some serious accidents last winter (broken hips).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 30 November, 2010, 11:27:08 am
Not much ice n sarf Lahndan.  I should mention, though, that the road surface looked like a mass experiment in chromatography.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 30 November, 2010, 11:30:51 am
Quote from: clarion on 30 November, 2010, 11:27:08 am
Not much ice n sarf Lahndan.  I should mention, though, that the road surface looked like a mass experiment in chromatography.

Ever tried to cross a lab floor when a chormatography column has spilled? They are made up of very tiny beads, it is like walking on ball bearings.

..d
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Domestique on 30 November, 2010, 12:39:42 pm
That was dodgy, but I made it in to work upright 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 30 November, 2010, 12:40:23 pm
Quote from: Regulator on 30 November, 2010, 11:05:45 am
Yep.  Regina has a nice knobbly tyre on the back and was regally sailing through the ice.

 ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 30 November, 2010, 01:09:31 pm
Quote from: Jacomus on 29 November, 2010, 05:20:31 pm
Quote from: alexb on 29 November, 2010, 04:40:23 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 29 November, 2010, 10:42:21 am
I wore Madison D'Arcs today, to try and protect my eyes from the dry, cold wind.  Unfortunately, they tend to steam up while I'm stopped at lights and clear up a little after.  This caused me not to see ice around a drain just beyond one set of lights; the result must have looked just like the effect when Lucy pulls the ball away just before Charlie Brown kicks it.  Although I did not say "Good Grief".  Came down hard on my right thigh and elbow.  Fortunately, nothing but a couple of bruises and I went straight on. 

Try putting a squirt of Pledge onto the lenses and polishing it off gently. The silicon is supposed to disperse water. It works really well on rainy days, might just work for the fogging problem as well.

Disclaimer: My glasses rarely fog up.

I used to have Madison D'Arcs, and nothing I did stopped them steaming up. They would even do it if my speed dropped below 6-8mph.

I solved it by getting new glasses.

It's the shape of your face and where they sit on your nose that dictates whether or not they steam up. D'Arcs are among the best for not steaming up for me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 30 November, 2010, 01:30:38 pm
Quote from: David Martin on 30 November, 2010, 11:22:07 am
Quote from: Regulator on 30 November, 2010, 10:44:00 am
Great commute today... :thumbsup:

Although I did have to laugh at the University cycling club chaps (who are Cambridge's equivalent of London Dynamo riders) who were trying to negotiate the ice of the DNA path on slick 23s.  :facepalm:


PMSL - that path is lethal with slicks when it rains, let alone a light frost. Ice would be really 'fun'.


Was doing only 25kph down it today, but flying past all and sundry on their MTBs. The corners are gritted except the last one by the bridge.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 30 November, 2010, 01:49:33 pm
First chance to use the Marathon Winter tyes in the conditions for which they're designed this morning. Let them down to 50psi before I set off to the station. Took the back route to avoid having to share with motorised traffic. Had a few moments where I felt the front wheel starting to slip sideways but I managed to stay upright. Not sure if that was down to the tyres or just superior bike handling skills.

When I arrived, there was a train at the platform but it wasn't going anywhere. I sat on it for a while before deciding to go home for a cup of tea and listen to the radio to check on the transport situation. I let some more air out before setting off and found it gave me much better grip, though the bike felt really sluggish. Checked the pressure when I got home and found I'd let more out than I realised - they were down to about 20psi.

I got a message from a colleague (who lives just up the line from me) that the train he was on had started moving, so I headed out again, but not before pumping the tyres back up to their recommended minimum of 35psi. Decided to head to the next station down the line as I thought there might be more chance of a train from there, so had a nice 8 miles through the now rapidly thawing slush.

Had to wait a while but a train did eventually show up and made its way slowly into London. Then I had to take a rather circuitous route to the office because there was yet another demo going off in Westminster and Victoria Street was closed off from about halfway down.

Having initially left work at about 7.30, I eventually got to work at about 12.45.

The journey home is going to be... interesting.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 30 November, 2010, 01:55:58 pm
Cycled in today with no problems (my first time since the snow started falling last Thursday). The roads were remarkably quiet. There was quite a bit of slush and not too much ice. I did stick strictly to the main roads though avoiding the cycle path.

I'm now in trouble however. My wife wants to know how I'm going to collect her from the train station without the car this evening - she's refusing the offer of a croggy on the pannier rack. I somehow suspect that my Christmas present is now a contribution to the cost of her taxi ride...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 30 November, 2010, 04:50:58 pm
Quote from: Regulator on 30 November, 2010, 10:44:00 am
University cycling club chaps (who are Cambridge's equivalent of London Dynamo riders) who were trying to negotiate the ice of the DNA path on slick 23s.  :facepalm:

Think of it as evolution in action.  An icy DNA path indeed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 30 November, 2010, 06:29:51 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 30 November, 2010, 01:49:33 pm
First chance to use the Marathon Winter tyes in the conditions for which they're designed this morning. Let them down to 50psi before I set off to the station. Took the back route to avoid having to share with motorised traffic. Had a few moments where I felt the front wheel starting to slip sideways but I managed to stay upright.


ME with the Nokians I have is that because the studs are offset from the centre, a front-wheel slide recovers when you start to lean and the studs can then bite.  I've had this happen a few times and I've yet to fall off.

Last winter my street turned to sheet ice; light rain on slush created a nice smooth surface which then refroze to be like uneven glass.  I could ride on it, though I was doing so gingerly.  It was very hard to set off though, because there was zero grip to push against to lift my foot off the ground.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: longers on 30 November, 2010, 06:55:24 pm
The first two miles were fun but the rest wasn't too bad. Riding on my homebrew rivetted tyres was slow but ok.

We did get snowballs thrown at us from the top of the wall on the right here (http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=Mottram+in+Longdendale,+Hyde&sll=53.800651,-4.064941&sspn=12.530974,39.155273&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Mottram+in+Longdendale,+Hyde,+Tameside,+United+Kingdom&ll=53.464548,-2.020454&spn=0.049257,0.218353&z=13&layer=c&cbll=53.464621,-2.020584&panoid=nlCV8obauQMlUoG8aW1s1g&cbp=12,315,,0,5).

The lad I ride that section with only has this week to do and then he's off to the Caribbean for a month. Git.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 30 November, 2010, 07:52:12 pm
I rode 24 miles today on studs - more than a third of that on snow covered quiet lanes.

It was glorious - picture postcard stuff - with snow laden hedgerows, a moon hanging in a clear sky and low level skeins of geese honking across.

My hand-wringing, ice-scraping, car-driving colleagues have no idea what they're missing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 30 November, 2010, 08:22:11 pm
Gahhh, that was a hell of a cyle ride home.

From Clapham it was a tad chilly but the snow was not that bad. BY the time I got to Camberwell the falling diagonal snow had got quite ferocious and it was getting a tad dangerous with limited eyesight  :( I then started to count off the areas of London that I was cycling through, right well done you've got Peckham next, then onto New Cross and that helped me home. I had to walk the last half-mile home which was not a problem as it was snow and slush but I am so glad I have the day off tomorrow as the snow in Lewisham is quite deep and will be turning very nasty soon!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 30 November, 2010, 08:36:09 pm
Most of the ride was refreshing and fine, clear and quick with a little snow falling. If I'd left work when I meant to I'd have gone via the sea front and made it a bit longer.
The last rise was a bit more iffy - higher up and a stretch which hadn't been gritted. Got a few loss of traction moments on the steeper bits which led to me walking a little and one wankpanzer that didn't want to pull into a huge space between parked cars on their side while I rode up a steep bit in a tyre track in the snow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 30 November, 2010, 08:57:33 pm
Quote from: simonp on 30 November, 2010, 06:29:51 pm


Last winter my street turned to sheet ice; light rain on slush created a nice smooth surface which then refroze to be like uneven glass.  I could ride on it, though I was doing so gingerly.  It was very hard to set off though, because there was zero grip to push against to lift my foot off the ground.


After my comments on the DNA path this morning, it was exactly like that this evening. Very hectic, even with twin ixons. How the people with wilco lights negotiated it, I don't know. Rest of the ride was uneventful. I may take a detour to the gogs tomorrow. However, if Greg was off work and able to offer coffee and cakes, I could detour via long road, obviously. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 30 November, 2010, 09:20:06 pm
Just to recap..I live on the Devon/Somerset border.  It isn't a cold part of the country.

On the way back from work today it was ok until I got off the A38 and started to go up kinda "around" the hills to get into the Culm Valley.  The highest bit of the route had a small amount of snow.  To start with there was less snow and the traffic (it's a bus route but not a busy road) had worn the snow away.  As the snow got thicker on the road however, it was compacted and was starting to freeze as it was after dark.  I pussy foot pedalled for about a mile, especially on the downhill bits.  Once I got through this bit and onto a better road it was ok again.

When I got home my Schwalbe Winter Marathons had arrived from .de.  And I have tomorrow off work :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 30 November, 2010, 10:21:04 pm
I'm not doing it. I refuse. I will not buy studded tyres, I will not ride on ice. I don't care if it makes me a wimp, I don't want to freeze, fall off, or break anything.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 30 November, 2010, 10:27:20 pm
+1 This wimp plans not to be in plaster when the weather eventually sorts itself out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 30 November, 2010, 10:30:37 pm
A bit interesting this morning.   Fairly scary on the way home.  This is a short 1.5 mile commute to/from my local station.  I had to take it so easy on the way home that my fingers absolutely froze.  I should've worn my liner gloves.

I am just about to fit my studded tyres.  Just waiting for the wheels to defrost.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonBuoy on 30 November, 2010, 10:35:51 pm
I was really looking forward to riding to work in the snow this morning.  On reflection this is slightly worrying.  As it turned out the temperature was a couple of degrees too high so it was all a bit slushy and I ended up with a wet bum.

The trip home got off to a bad start when one of my colleagues hit the deck just behind me on the carpark exit road.  Fortunately his dodgy knees appeared to survived the off.  The rest of the trip home was cautious and (fortunately) uneventful.

I reckon that the slightly dodgy canal towpath may be the preferred route to work tomorrow  -  what could possibly go wrong ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 30 November, 2010, 10:37:46 pm
On the way home this evening, I was able to get a train as far as Faversham. Rather than wait potentially ages there for a connection, I rode the rest of the way home. Wonderful. The back route was quiet and although it was blizzarding at first, it stopped after a while and I had just the crisp night air on my face.

I took it quite carefully, especially on corners, but never once felt in the slightest danger of sliding. I don't know if that's thanks to the spikes or if it's just down to running fatter tyres at lower pressure.

I had to walk up the hill though. I can normally just about manage to get up it but as well as the extreme heaviness of the tyres, I was carrying a lot more weight than usual in the form of many layers of clothing.

Computer says I've done not far short of 50km overall today, which I'm pretty pleased with.  :thumbsup:

I'm already really looking forward to tomorrow's ride.  ;D

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 30 November, 2010, 10:44:55 pm
Quote from: boab on 30 November, 2010, 10:21:04 pm
I'm not doing it. I refuse. I will not buy studded tyres, I will not ride on ice. I don't care if it makes me a wimp, I don't want to freeze, fall off, or break anything.

It doesn't make you a wimp, it makes you sensibly cautious. If you don't have to go out on your bike, it's probably best not to.

But if you absolutely must go out, and you're properly kitted out for the conditions, it's actually good fun.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 30 November, 2010, 10:45:43 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 30 November, 2010, 10:37:46 pm
On the way home this evening, I was able to get a train as far as Faversham. Rather than wait potentially ages there for a connection, I rode the rest of the way home. Wonderful. The back route was quiet and although it was blizzarding at first, it stopped after a while and I had just the crisp night air on my face.

I took it quite carefully, especially on corners, but never once felt in the slightest danger of sliding. I don't know if that's thanks to the spikes or if it's just down to running fatter tyres at lower pressure.

I had to walk up the hill though. I can normally just about manage to get up it but as well as the extreme heaviness of the tyres, I was carrying a lot more weight than usual in the form of many layers of clothing.

Computer says I've done not far short of 50km overall today, which I'm pretty pleased with.  :thumbsup:

I'm already really looking forward to tomorrow's ride.  ;D

d.


I can picture your homeward ride quite accurately - there's more than a smidge of envy here - albeit not for the grief you encounter whilst trying to get in to The Metropolis  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adam on 30 November, 2010, 10:50:15 pm
Riding down a hill to the main road, the car behind (which had been keeping a respectable distance behind rather than overtaking), then came along side me at the junction.  The driver wound his window down and commented how brave I was cycling in the snow, as he'd wimped out and taken the car instead of his bike.  

I pointed to my studded tyres and told him to get some!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 30 November, 2010, 10:52:25 pm
Quote from: Adam on 30 November, 2010, 10:50:15 pm
Riding down a hill to the main road, the car behind (which had been keeping a respectable distance behind rather than overtaking), then came along side me at the junction.  The driver wound his window down and commented how brave I was cycling in the snow, as he'd wimped out and taken the car instead of his bike.  

I pointed to my studded tyres and told him to get some!

Tops!  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 30 November, 2010, 10:55:25 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 30 November, 2010, 10:45:43 pm
I can picture your homeward ride quite accurately

I don't usually go via the coastal route through Seasalter, if that's what you're envisaging. I normally turn off at Graveney and go via Monkshill to Dargate, then up Fox's Cross Hill (if that means anything to you). I do sometimes go through Seasalter though.

This evening, I considered going inland via Boughton, which is a lovely route and gives great views over the marshes, but it's a bit longer and I just wanted to get home.

Quote
there's more than a smidge of envy here - albeit not for the grief you encounter whilst trying to get into The Metropolis  :)

Swings and roundabouts, innit. A nice bike ride is just a way of making the horrible commute more bearable. And coming home to somewhere nice is the trade-off for having to do the commute in the first place.

I'm feeling quite philosophical about my daily transport ordeal tonight. The ride home has put me in a good mood.  :thumbsup:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 30 November, 2010, 11:04:09 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 30 November, 2010, 10:55:25 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 30 November, 2010, 10:45:43 pm
I can picture your homeward ride quite accurately

I don't usually go via the coastal route through Seasalter, if that's what you're envisaging. I normally turn off at Graveney and go via Monkshill to Dargate, then up Fox's Cross Hill (if that means anything to you). I do sometimes go through Seasalter though.

This evening, I considered going inland via Boughton, which is a lovely route and gives great views over the marshes, but it's a bit longer and I just wanted to get home.

Quote
there's more than a smidge of envy here - albeit not for the grief you encounter whilst trying to get into The Metropolis  :)

Swings and roundabouts, innit. A nice bike ride is just a way of making the horrible commute more bearable. And coming home to somewhere nice is the trade-off for having to do the commute in the first place.

I'm feeling quite philosophical about my daily transport ordeal tonight. The ride home has put me in a good mood.  :thumbsup:

d.


Yeah.
I've never forgotten the account of your trip home last year when the train stopped at Gillingham and whilst cycling, you missed a turn and ended up heading for Sheerness...

You cannot be anything other than philosophical about these things, D.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 30 November, 2010, 11:39:27 pm
My commute was "interesting" this evening.  Up to about Clapham Common, the roads were pretty much clear of any white stuff, much the same as this morning on the way to work.  Across the Common was easy enough, there was just a thin layer of snow, which the Hakkapeliitta's tread easily dealt with.  The less busily used roads were OK, although the clear bits of road did force me to cycle essentially in the way of any cars, but the few about were pretty patient.

Tooting Bec Common cycle path was horrible.  I think the snow had melted a bit and refrozen, so it was a rather horribly slippery and crunchy in places ride, which I had to do very gingerly.  I clearly wasn't the first one, since there were other cycle tracks going all over the path in places, and in fact they suggested that the Hakkapeliittas made it rather a lot easier for me, my path didn't wander half as much as others!

Rather than follow my normal route along LCN5, and along some quiet potentially snowy back roads, I went along the A23, and through what can be some nasty junctions around Streatham.  The number of cars was low enough that it was OK, so I thought I'd continue along the Purley Way to home, rather than London Road into Croydon (which would be OK), and then down Ruskin Way from West Croydon Station (which would have been lethal, based on last year).

I thought the Purley Way would be clear of snow, which it may well have been, but you wouldn't have been able to tell because of all the traffic obscuring it.  From the Mitcham Road roundabout to Five Ways (at least) it was basically stationary (over a mile).  Butterfly did mention that the A232 was also a traffic jam, which makes sense, that's probably why the Purley Way traffic wasn't going anywhere.

I had to use a mixture of cycling up the inside of traffic, cycling on the footways, and through Sainsburys car park to make any progress.  Where cars had driven, the partially melting lumps and ruts of ice made progress extremely challenging.  The footway was the easiest, since pedestrians feet (and the odd other cyclists from their tracks) don't pack snow into ice, in the same lethal way that cars do.

Even the last couple of hundred feet of my road had to be walked.  I tried to cycle it, which worked for a few feet, but then icy ruts, from cars driving through the snow, which were completely obscured by more recent snow, would catch a wheel, and make it utterly impossible to progress without falling off.

I think the tread on the Hakkapeliitta made more of a difference that the studs did.  If I'd been on my normal, essentially slick Marathon Supremes, I'm sure I would have come off several times, instead of just skidding a bit, and turning the air blue. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: geoff on 01 December, 2010, 12:00:45 am
I rode in over the fields to East Oxford and then into town. Despite slow going on the field paths and slower knobbly tyres etc, it added just ten minutes to the commute. But it's loads of extra effort on MTB rather than road bike.

Bonus was finding a flock of pheasants ahead of me. First I noticed dozens of odd footprints in the snow, then I saw a few birds runnning ahead of me up the path. When I got over a rise and could see a bit further I counted 19 of them, all running on in single file  -  until they reached "their" bit of wood...and disappeared amongst the trees.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 01 December, 2010, 12:53:02 am
Quote from: boab on 30 November, 2010, 10:21:04 pm
I'm not doing it. I refuse. I will not buy studded tyres, I will not ride on ice. I don't care if it makes me a wimp, I don't want to freeze, fall off, or break anything.

I haven't fallen off with studded tyres ever*. I have fallen off on ice at least twice when using normal tyres. I've locked a front wheel without even realising it and somehow stayed upright too.

* Caveat: I tried to join a cycle path from a road, hit the slush at the edge of the road and slid to a halt but had time to put my foot down. Deep slush is dodgy for turning even with snow tyres.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 01 December, 2010, 12:58:53 am
I had a harder ride home tonight than last night. Rutted refrozen snow is more tricky than hard packed or virgin snow. However, the tyres coped well. There was the odd slightly squirrelly moment but nothing I'd call a proper skid. Ruts can catch the front wheel but the tread and studs help it to climb back out.

It does require a bit of suspension of disbelief that you will not end up in a heap and I'm sure it can go wrong. No way would I cycle that route on normal tyres.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 01 December, 2010, 01:29:10 am
Had an "interesting" moment on the way home. I discovered my cleats had frozen to the pedal just as my feeble attempt at a trackstand failed... I did manage to get a foot down in the end before going totally  horizontal, but it was a close run thing...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 01 December, 2010, 07:48:33 am
I'd cycled five miles this morning and was enjoying myself on some quiet, snowy lanes when my boss phoned at 0650 to say that school was shut. I'm back home with a newspaper and looking out at the snow which has just started again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 01 December, 2010, 08:41:31 am
Pulled onto the M3 (passenger in a car) and looked in the mirror to see an empty road behind. Apparently closed J2 - J3 which means a number of collegues will struggle in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 01 December, 2010, 09:14:42 am
Whee!  Back on the bike.  Winter tyres on (ooh-er.. no.. wait...).  Dropped my average speed a little and avoided the icier shortcuts but only added a couple of minutes to my commute. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 01 December, 2010, 09:34:20 am
CTF steps out the door and thinks. "Strewth I've forgotten to put any clothes on."  I think the cold is starting to get to me. Only three more months of Winter to go.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 01 December, 2010, 09:39:50 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 01 December, 2010, 09:14:42 am
... Dropped my average speed a little and avoided the icier shortcuts but only added a couple of minutes to my commute. 

I wish it made that little difference to me.  Slick Marathon Supremes at 100psi vs Nokian Hakkapeliittas at 50psi was probably an additional 15 minutes, although a lot of that was probably having to drop the speed a lot on some parts of the route (sub 5mph along Tooting Bec Common cycle path).

I'm public transporting it this morning, after last night I've realised that for some of the route, there is no easy path, plus I've got an odd pain in one leg, and frankly I'm knackered from cycling already (Friday legs on a Wednesday!)  Luckily for me, the Trams and Tube seem to be working fine.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 01 December, 2010, 09:41:38 am
Very heavy snow last night - Had to clear a 3' drift from the back door before I could get out. Walked the first mile in knee deep snow. The remaining 14 miles were hard going but blissfully traffic free except for me, even on the A61 bypass! Passed another 3 cyclists going the opposite way. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 01 December, 2010, 11:57:11 am
Bit more interesting this morning.  Refrozen solid ruts of black ice.  One tyre took one rut, another took another.  The bike starts to get sideways, you correct, and it's fine.  But disconcerting.

Bit squirrelly on the hard-packed snow at times too, when cornering fast.  But just that; no crash.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Morrisette on 01 December, 2010, 12:28:36 pm
I'm amazed that so many of you are still out on bikes.
I have given up with the big commute until all that ice is gone - if that turns out to be March 2011, so be it.
I can't ride on ice. I'm really nervous of it, and really paranoid even pootling through town as I don't think a gritter has touched any road in Cambridge since Sunday. Even if they have done it, a wet road (from salt water) and a black ice sheet look exactly the same so my death grip on the bars doesn't ease off any. I really hate winter.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 01 December, 2010, 12:33:49 pm
Quote from: Morrisette on 01 December, 2010, 12:28:36 pm
I'm amazed that so many of you are still out on bikes.
I have given up with the big commute until all that ice is gone - if that turns out to be March 2011, so be it.
I can't ride on ice. I'm really nervous of it, and really paranoid even pootling through town as I don't think a gritter has touched any road in Cambridge since Sunday. Even if they have done it, a wet road (from salt water) and a black ice sheet look exactly the same so my death grip on the bars doesn't ease off any. I really hate winter.

No, the roads in Cambridge are still being gritted.  I got gritted last night. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 01 December, 2010, 12:38:23 pm
Quote from: simonp on 01 December, 2010, 12:33:49 pm
No, the roads in Cambridge are still being gritted.  I got gritted last night. :)

Did it taste nice?

<homer_simpson>
Mmm.... salty Molasses...
Yeeaarrghh..... *drool*
</homer_simpson>
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 01 December, 2010, 01:47:48 pm
Quote from: Morrisette on 01 December, 2010, 12:28:36 pm
I'm amazed that so many of you are still out on bikes.

Tbh, I don't really have much choice - I need to get to the station and that's three miles away. I don't really want to take the car, especially not in current conditions. There's a bus service but it's unreliable.

Cycling is the best option for me. I've had problems with ice in the past but hopefully no longer now I have my winter tyres.

I suppose I could walk, and I have done on occasion, but I'd rather cycle.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 01 December, 2010, 01:57:35 pm
I don't trust public transport to get me back if it gets me in and I refuse to drive in the snow, so I need to ride. I rode along our road - fairly smoth snow; wimped out on the rise of the next road; on reaching the main road it was clear enough not to present a problem to the knobblies :). The worst bit by far was the small road where I work and the one before which were polished ice - too many taxis and 4x4s. It was hard to walk across them with the pushchair later. Mitcham was much clearer this morning than it was after snow earlier in the year, when the bus lane was almost completely unrideable. The salt seems to have been applied more efficiently. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 01 December, 2010, 02:49:30 pm
Quote from: Butterfly on 01 December, 2010, 01:57:35 pm
I don't trust public transport to get me back if it gets me in

This is the thing that really terrifies me. Back in March, on the way home one evening, I got as far as Gillingham before the train ground to a halt. If I'd had my bike with me, I could have got off and ridden home.

Admittedly, the prospect of riding 30 miles in those conditions wouldn't have been hugely appealing either, but it might have been better than sitting on a stationary train for six hours.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 December, 2010, 02:50:56 pm
I trust private motorised transport even less.  With justification.  Not so very far from us, 400 road users spent a very cold night stuck on the M25.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 01 December, 2010, 05:08:35 pm
I took the plunge and used Public Transport today, but the Trams are pretty reliable, and I'm on the right side of the one bit of the network which caused problems earlier this year (the bridge over the railway line near Reeves Corner).

In a worst case scenario I'd walk the entire way home, but an 11 mile walk doesn't particularly worry me, and I wore shoes which would allow me to do it today (heavy leather hill walking shoes).  I reckon it would take me about 2½ hours, which would be annoying, but not the end of the world.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cpjmathieson on 01 December, 2010, 05:15:32 pm
8 mile either way commute yesterday on a old mountain bike with knobbly tyres (couldn't get hold of any studded tyres). Took a lot longer coming home at 10pm then going in. But it was worth it to fly past all the miles of stationary cars in the morning at 9am  :)
Took the day off today as kids school closed but back in for a 4pm to 2am day tomorrow..... great  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 01 December, 2010, 05:21:34 pm
It was very cold.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 01 December, 2010, 05:55:14 pm
Quote from: Morrisette on 01 December, 2010, 12:28:36 pm
I'm amazed that so many of you are still out on bikes.


1) I live in Devon and although it is very very cold today approx -3 and windy the roads are clear of snow
2) I have now have studded ice tyres
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 01 December, 2010, 06:02:06 pm
The roads round here are now bone dry where they were salted, because there is a dessiccating NE wind.  However...the psyclepaths and side roads are now a thin layer of very hard compacted black ice which my spiked tyres are struggling to overcome.  I can wheelspin with moderate pedalling and do rear wheel skids on the fixie easily.  On the other hand, walking is even more dangerous, as I found when I tried.

I will probably drive the next couple of days, since there's one point of my commute where the only psyclepath alternative is a three-lane 50mph (i.e. 70mph because the speed cameras have been switched off) dual carriageway.

One day in some cycling utopia they might actually salt cycle routes.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 01 December, 2010, 06:07:21 pm
Quote from: rogerzilla on 01 December, 2010, 06:02:06 pm
One day in some cycling utopia they might actually salt cycle routes.

Hah.  I use two very busy cyclepaths in London (Clapham Common and Tooting Bec Common), I've never seen any salt/grit on either of them.  Don't hold your breath.

Tooting Bec Common yesterday evening was very difficult, although salt or grit would have made no difference, there was several inches of crunchy (ie refrozen) snow on it.  Not much fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 01 December, 2010, 06:09:01 pm
Quote from: DrMekon on 30 November, 2010, 08:57:33 pm
Quote from: simonp on 30 November, 2010, 06:29:51 pm


Last winter my street turned to sheet ice; light rain on slush created a nice smooth surface which then refroze to be like uneven glass.  I could ride on it, though I was doing so gingerly.  It was very hard to set off though, because there was zero grip to push against to lift my foot off the ground.


After my comments on the DNA path this morning, it was exactly like that this evening. Very hectic, even with twin ixons. How the people with wilco lights negotiated it, I don't know. Rest of the ride was uneventful. I may take a detour to the gogs tomorrow. However, if Greg was off work and able to offer coffee and cakes, I could detour via long road, obviously. :)

Sorry - I was in Welwyn Garden City today...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 01 December, 2010, 06:10:32 pm
Quote from: TimO on 01 December, 2010, 06:07:21 pm
Quote from: rogerzilla on 01 December, 2010, 06:02:06 pm
One day in some cycling utopia they might actually salt cycle routes.

Hah.  I use two very busy cyclepaths in London (Clapham Common and Tooting Bec Common), I've never seen any salt/grit on either of them.  Don't hold your breath.

Tooting Bec Common yesterday evening was very difficult, although salt or grit would have made no difference, there was several inches of crunchy (ie refrozen) snow on it.  Not much fun.

Some of the cycle routes in Cambridge have been gritted.

They weren't gritted in the last big freeze earlier and the council got heavily criticised - even by the media who normally whinge about cyclists.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 01 December, 2010, 06:16:40 pm
Quote from: Regulator on 01 December, 2010, 06:10:32 pm
They weren't gritted in the last big freeze earlier and the council got heavily criticised - even by the media who normally whinge about cyclists.
Yeah.  Keep the feckers off our roads, which our road tax pays for!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: henshaw11 on 01 December, 2010, 06:27:54 pm
Roads in this bit of N surrey (well, Walton/Chertsey/Staines/Hampton Court, I think a bit further south may have been dodgier) seemed to be ok both yesterday and today. I'd taken the mtb rather than the recumbent just in case there was much ice - not to mention keeping the salt off it after the mess it made of the mtb's cables/drivetrain/rear brake caliper in the last bout of snow. (Reminder to self...wash the bloody bike before I put it away in the garage for a month !)

Main problem last night was bloody morons on the road  - I had one overtake/turnleft across me - not that close , but close enough that they were still in the road and I had to swing round the back of them (SUV, what a surprise..), plus three passes at about 18" from the end of my bars. Roads were virtually empty too, it's not like anyone "needed" to squeeze past - even less bloomin' excuse. The normal rate's something like one twat per 4 journeys rather than the converse..
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 01 December, 2010, 06:36:57 pm
I'm happily plying my way between SW20 and Sunbury at the moment. It's cold and the roads are damp, not icy. I stick to main roads virtually all the way. No worries as yet (touch wood).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 01 December, 2010, 07:28:30 pm
I was back on the fixed commuter today, but since it snowed constantly from 10 am onwards, it was a bit of a dicey ride home on slick (albeit 1.5") tyres through churned-up snow, slush muck and occasional grit. 

Back on the MTB tomorrow, assuming the site is open - we were sent home early today. 

*prays for more snow*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 December, 2010, 09:04:03 pm
V. slow ride home this evening.  it was fun.

I had to walk the last couple of roads, as the surface was really glassy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 01 December, 2010, 09:09:08 pm
Very slippery roads tonight - mostly sheet ice with a light dusting of snow. Several times I would definitely have gone over if I didn't have studded tyres. Not losing traction when you expect to is a really weird feeling.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 01 December, 2010, 09:16:21 pm
Came back via the roads I avoided this morning.  Thin ice, nothing I couldn't manage.  Be more interesting when it's snow on ice, though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 02 December, 2010, 07:37:20 am
Oh I love my Roughstuff! What an amazing little bike! Snow over ice on the back streets this morning- slippy slidey but it held its ground.  Then loads of horrid, black snow slush on Brockley Rise. The A2 was Ok- bit slippy.  Felt so much more secure on the Roberts than on the Holdsworth which I rode in on Tuesday- that bike is so light and a touch too big so I'm always tempted to hop up onto the pedals.  The Roberts is just the right size- bigger wheelbase and its weight and fatter tyres made me feel like I could ride for miles in the snow- and now that's what I want to do- instead I'm in work.  Half the school staff are not, but we are still open for teaching today- snow based curriculum methinks today!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 02 December, 2010, 09:00:32 am
Yay - SNO!.

Speedy #314, Front & Centre. Gears - Check. Lubed - Check. Tyres - Check. Parking brake....Parking brake... :facepalm:

Never mind, 2Km made Oi toasty :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 02 December, 2010, 09:07:20 am
Going nowhere today. The "high speed" trains aren't affected by the weather, so I could in theory get on one if I rode down to Faversham. However, they're stuck behind the normal trains, which are affected - they can't draw any power because of ice on the third rail.

I'll probably go for a ride later anyway - just as far as Tesco to get the ingredients for a lemon polenta cake (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=41178.0). On days like this, only cake will do.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 02 December, 2010, 09:35:42 am
Wow!  Please tell me what the hell I am doing, cycling in over ridged and rutted ice and snow on a skinny track frame.  Apart from having amazing fun, that is.

Didn't see a clear road until central Brixton and then didn't see another till Battersea Bridge.  Every minor road was a juddering, bumping theme park ride; at one point, I found myself unclipping my left foot and cycling with my left leg stuck out, to keep balance (which is some trick on fixed).  But there were so few cars on the road that, combined with good speed once I was over the bridge, that it only added 10 minutes to my commute.

Those drivers who did venture out were mostly very generous and considerate, for once.  And it's the first time I've ever cycled to work with shouts of encouragement from pedestrians.

Did all this with bare knees, too, as my laundry rota got out of step and all my long tights are in the wash.  Actually looking forward to the trip home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 02 December, 2010, 09:52:36 am
There was 4cm of snow last night which is not a lot in the scheme of things but the most we've seen so far.
The road from the house to the road that goes somewhere was compacted snow but thin enough to ride on.  I'd not tried the ice tires out at all except for a 5 minute trip to the shop yesterday so I was initially over cautious.  The first bit of road would have been ridable on normal tyres- just slush in the wheel tracks, it was well gritted.

It was clear on the hill down through Culmstock (which is good as it's twisty and steep ) back to slush.  I didn't take my first short cut as I knew there was at least some ice under the snow.
I got to the turn off for the bus route to Wellington via Nicholasheign, it was like the road outside my house, ungritted compacted snow.  But the snow was shallow and the spikes could grip fine in the worn tyre tracks.  I got off and walked down a couple of short sharp slopes.  Once I'd got to the top of the "pass" ( It is a sort of pass I suppose, that sounds a bit grandeous though ) the road down the other side which is a gentle descent was just as bad and I wasn't going to get any speed up in case the snow depth suddenly increased

Met a lorry reversing backwards up an icey steep bit and then the lower slope (down to Peamoor X) had been gritted so joining the A38 was easy enough

The underinflated 35mm ice tyres were "interesting" at 20mph+ but that didn't happen much
They are also hard work uphill
But they make a difficult commute an easy commute so I forgive them these little fobiles
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 02 December, 2010, 10:02:42 am
Amazingly, the B1224 & A58 were completely clear of ice, just a some slush. Unfortunately this meant some traffic.

Leeds is a bit foul, random patches and lumps of ice under slush.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 02 December, 2010, 10:19:27 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 02 December, 2010, 10:02:42 am
Leeds is a bit foul,


This shall be our watchword.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Seldom Killer on 02 December, 2010, 10:24:36 am
Following yesterday's fiasco, the A57 was open and cleared. I think it might have been officially closed though as there were hardly any moving cars. About 100 had been abandoned in the space of about two miles + 30 or so artics.

Clean run over Handsworth and didn't hit properly bad surface until I got to Darnall. Untreated, chossy, horrible. After that a pretty clean run to work. Snowing in Sheff again so might be worse going home.

I've borrowed my girlfriends 'cross bike so should be able to make progress.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 02 December, 2010, 11:06:12 am
the ride to work was fine, slower by 10min, but fun. the worst bit was trying to separate frozen d-lock which i leave on the rack outside my work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 December, 2010, 11:15:48 am
The ride to work was...interesting.

Our street was actually rideable.  Splendid start.  But the busier roads were icier.  I'd hoped that, once I got to the London Road, it would be clear.  Not so.  It was verrry tricky.  Butterfly was doing better with her hybrid and its chunky tyres.  I had Marathon Plus, which were OK through snow, but my rear wheel had a penchant for heading sideways on ice.  Fortunately, my front wheel stayed on track all the way.

It took nearly three hours to get to work, which is a couple of hours more than usual.

I stopped in at Apex Cycles to see if I could get a tyre - any tyre - a bit chunkier than my Marathon Plus.

But I couldn't :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 02 December, 2010, 12:51:36 pm
Blimey Charlie that were reet interesting. Having walked up my road to get onto the main road the front end of my overshoes were already jutting out from my shoes  :( Lewisham was a little difficult to navigate, the roads were clear but the cycle lanes were tricky to negotiate. By Camberwell I was almost screaming in agony as water had seeped into my shoes and my feet were like two blocks of ice. The last couple of miles was either by walking/freewheeling my bike along the brown slushiness whilst gritting my teeth and trying not to fall off.  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonBuoy on 02 December, 2010, 01:03:04 pm
I made it to the end of the road this morning before I had a bit of a lie down on the ice.  The main problem was the thin layer of fresh snow that disguised the underlying slipperyness.

Slightly sore right elbow  :(
Yale key imprint in right buttock  :o
No damage to bike  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 December, 2010, 01:04:25 pm
Quote from: JonBuoy on 02 December, 2010, 01:03:04 pm
No damage to bike  :)

Phew! ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 02 December, 2010, 01:07:42 pm
Quote from: JonBuoy on 02 December, 2010, 01:03:04 pm
Yale key imprint in right buttock  :o

Major plus; if you lose your keys, you can just drop your trousers, bend over, and ask the locksmith to make a copy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Zipperhead on 02 December, 2010, 02:16:03 pm
I had a fun ride this morning, pulled out of the garage turning in front of a police van that was coming along and then had a fun time powersliding around.

I shall have to treat my trike to a nice wash on Saturday!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: FatBloke on 02 December, 2010, 04:06:58 pm
On the commute today:  loads of BMWs with silly low profile tyres sliding backwards towards me on the gentlest of inclines.  Tossers!   ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 02 December, 2010, 04:31:04 pm
Holy plunging thermometers, Batman, the temperature has dropped 3degrees in 30 minutes at home!

I think it is time I set off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 02 December, 2010, 07:51:19 pm
I thought the commute home was going to be boring, as the roads were clear right to Battersea Park Road, but then as soon as I was off the main roads, ice.  Even just being nudged off near the verge on busier roads became tricky, as the transition from tarmac to ridged ice was brutal.  It was unsettling to have to pause on one icy road and then wonder how the hell I was going to kick off again without spinning into the gutter.  Nearly lost it on one road; had to relax and let the wheels find their path (while still pedalling, cause this is fixed, remember).

Still having much fun with this, though.  It might begin to pall, I suppose.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 02 December, 2010, 08:05:47 pm
Cold cold cold and more wind.
Highlight was passing a queue of 10 cars that were in a head to head deadlock with 10 cars from the opposite direction all due to snow drifts.  The women in their BMWs were out and on their phones, goodness knows why.  So I just rode on and many commented that I was the lucky one  ;D

Tonight I have fitted some pipe lagging to my top tube.  Ready now for ice banging balls moves.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 02 December, 2010, 08:24:45 pm
Quote from: FatBloke on 02 December, 2010, 04:06:58 pm
On the commute today:  loads of BMWs with silly low profile tyres sliding backwards towards me on the gentlest of inclines.  Tossers!   ;D

Work was shut so no commute, but when I went out for supplies the only people on the road were proper 4 wheel drives, chavs sliding about on low profile tyres and kids on quad bikes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 02 December, 2010, 08:31:37 pm
I'm getting more confident on the studs, especially as the lanes have now been compacted to white sheet ice. I was struggling to balance over the little frozen ridges previously, but there's just been enough vehicle traffic to smooth them all down.

I nearly fell off three times today, each occasion was while running over slush that wasn't mushy.

I told my colleagues to stop fussing over me, my bike, and the snow today.
I'll look like a prat if I fall and bust something now.

Edited: I feel sorry for all you city riders.. I have ten miles of this every day.  :smug:

(http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c22/gordon1314/snowlane.jpg)

Taken with a flash. Goodness knows what that weird spectre thing is at the top left!


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 02 December, 2010, 08:32:25 pm
Quote from: Grub on 02 December, 2010, 08:05:47 pm
Tonight I have fitted some pipe lagging to my top tube.  Ready now for ice banging balls moves.

This made me snigger!!  Treat those heuvos carefully!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 02 December, 2010, 08:40:58 pm
Quote from: Gordy on 02 December, 2010, 08:31:37 pm
I nearly fell off three times today, each occasion was while running over slush that wasn't mushy.

Yes it's the hard pack slush that you sometimes carve into and sometimes don't that gives me the hairy moments.  Especially with icy ruts in/under.  It's strangely like riding through rutted mud without knobblies, but more so.

Tonight that was compounded by having to dodge around stupid speed pillows where the slush-that-isnt is also at its worst (I really didn't fancy trying to go over them in this).

Everywhere else, the Marathon Winters were very sure-footed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 02 December, 2010, 09:44:24 pm
Very slow trip back from Leeds. Icy through Leeds, particularly in Chapeltown (where I fell over stopping at some lights - forgot to unclip before I braked, wheels went fluuuip!).

In fact it was dang icy nearly all the way to Collingham. After then I got some revs going, only stopping to:

Empty the imperiled bladder
(why is it that bladders fill up so fast in cold weather)

Stop to ask occupants of broken-down car if they were ok
(not really. Didn't know which road they were on, didn't have breakdown cover. A 'mate' was on the way to help from Leeds, but as they didn't know which road they were one . . .). Sorted them out with directions.

Not  exactly snowy roads after collingham. Mostly that sort of 'sugar' coating that sticks to your tyres.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 02 December, 2010, 09:49:40 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 02 December, 2010, 09:44:24 pm
(why is it that bladders fill up so fast in cold weather)

Reduced blood flow to your extremities.  All that volume has to go somewhere.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 02 December, 2010, 09:58:50 pm
Really? Wow. That's a lot of blood restriction.

Peeing into a 3ft snowdrift on a hill and hoping that is *isn't* running back down hill is just . . . aargh. It was -7.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 December, 2010, 10:14:34 pm
The roads this evening were how I had expected them to be this morning, and the ride was a reasonable pace, in the circumstances.

I managed to ride all the way, which was cool, and very different from this morning.

I still have knobble-envy of Butterfly's tyres :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wascally Weasel on 02 December, 2010, 11:33:48 pm
Fun ride to and from work today- saw a kestrel pouncing on a rodent this morning in Richmond Park.  The abbreviated squeak of rodent life punctuated by the cry of the crow that then battled with the kestrel for the kill.

The trip took ages as I'm driving the tractor (big fat tyres on an old MTB) but was fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonBuoy on 03 December, 2010, 06:41:05 am
-8 ish out there at the moment.

I don't expect to have too many problems getting a prime spot in the bike racks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 03 December, 2010, 07:52:23 am
Well- the main road clear as far as Brockley Cross then, just like last year my little link road to the A2 at New Cross was a little rink of black ice- once again I managed to glide down to the lights which, thankfully, went green allowing me to ride safely onto the A2 without dumping myself on the road.  A2 clear.  So why oh why have we still got over half our staff apparently unable to get in and the rest of us working our b***s off to keep the school open?  A couple live way out in Kent (and that's a whole discussion point in itself) but the rest live no further away than me and some of the others that have managed to get in and apparently "cannot get their cars out of the sideroads."  So walk to the main road and get a bus maybe? (This should probably be in the Rant thread).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 03 December, 2010, 09:28:27 am
There was some lunatic riding a unicycle up Battersea Bridge Road this morning.  At first, as I approached, I thought he was just some nodder spinning in his lowest gear (he was in regular cold-weather cycling clothes, not a circus outfit), but as I drew closer his single wheel became clear.  I'd have loved to slow down and watch him go over the bridge, but didn't have time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 December, 2010, 09:32:37 am
I know (and am related to) a very keen unicyclist in the Battersea area.  I wonder if this was him...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 03 December, 2010, 09:57:51 am
Brrrrrr!
-9 as I set off..... Easier going - less snow on the roads, more ice.
Still, it was fun (ish) weaving my way down the 5 mile car park that was the Dronfield Bypass this morning...
200km on the Marathon Winters so far this week, bringing the total for the year up to 800km. Its been quite hard work battling through the snow; I feel as if I've done 3 times that!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 03 December, 2010, 10:21:06 am
The ride home last night was chilly but fine and incident free, apart from the buttock clenching fear moment as I decended from Wintwer Hill towards Marlow and suddenly wondered if the hairpin was snow/ ice clad or not ::-) By the time I got home I was feeling slightly overdressed.

The ride in thsi morning was damn cold but also incident free. Some of the roads through the Maidenhead residential areas are intermitantly covered in packed ice though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 03 December, 2010, 11:06:30 am
Much better commute in today, the snow is starting to melt and the cycle lanes are getting clearer so its easier to filter past stationary traffic. There were less cyclists on the roads today and fewer cars.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 03 December, 2010, 12:16:31 pm
Left my bike locked up at the station this morning. I don't normally like to risk it, but it's so cold out there that I'm hoping the usual bike vandals will be deterred.

Used a Boris Bike to get from St Pancras to Southwark - lucky I got the last one at the bike station nearest the station, and the bike station outside the office was half empty for a change. Some the back streets were very icy but the weight of the bike and the fat tyres meant it was quite stable - only had one slippy moment and managed to stay upright.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 03 December, 2010, 12:39:09 pm
I struggled this morning. Minus nine! I forgot my inner gloves and (of course) my Hope light went out at the deepest, darkest, slippiest bit of the route. I managed to change the batteries with cold hands but fell off (slowly) as soon as I got going again. There was ice on the lanes, fog on the dual-carriageway, numpty drivers in town.

It was not a nice commute today.

One hour, forty minutes for 12 miles.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: n0seblunt on 03 December, 2010, 04:54:26 pm
I wussed out yesterday and endured an unpleasant bus-tube-walk combo that took 1.5 hrs. Bit the bullet this morning and (apart from the first 100 yards outside my house) it was absolutely fine and much quieter in London than usual.

Could barely move due to the number of layers I was wearing mind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 03 December, 2010, 05:20:41 pm
I'm off to do mine now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 04 December, 2010, 01:13:24 pm
Ahhhh this mornings commute was a rather balmy 2 degrees celsius this morning  :D Roads all nearly back to normal before the impending snowcalypse next week  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 05 December, 2010, 08:06:38 pm
Blimey, that was quite an interesting commute today!  I think 5 muppet drivers who might be finding themselves on youtube, assuming the footage is decent.  That's an unheard of quantity for a single commute.

Roads were fine, dry and nice from Lewisham council boundary onwards.  Bromley is all wet and nasty, their grit seems much more hygroscopic than Lewisham's and further into London, I wonder why?

Oh, and ice on the uphill on the A233 near Fishponds.  There's a lot of piled up high dirty snow and slush from the start of the A233 all the way to Biggin Hill, so I was using most of the lane most of the time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 05 December, 2010, 08:49:32 pm
I also broke my chain on Vauxhall Bridge.  Got a derailment off the big ring, and it somehow undid one of the powerlinks.   :(

Still, the satisfaction of fixing despite discovering that my spare powerlink was not in my toolset was super.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 06 December, 2010, 09:32:11 am
Fairly straightforward, if gentle, run in this morning. Hardly any ice on the main roads, but one of the side roads had me walking.
My toes are still a bit cold though!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 06 December, 2010, 10:09:25 am
Some of the minor roads on my commute are still untrustworthy.  They look clear, but have a molecule-thick coating of black ice.  Treacherous.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Seldom Killer on 06 December, 2010, 10:18:24 am
Definitely below gritting effectiveness today. Mostly OK on the main roads but any patches of ice were solid and slippy.

Definitely a third sock kind of day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 06 December, 2010, 11:05:46 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 06 December, 2010, 10:09:25 am
Some of the minor roads on my commute are still untrustworthy.  They look clear, but have a molecule-thick coating of black ice.  Treacherous.


Ditto. 26miles without a slip, then a full on pancake splat at junction of Roseville and Roundhay.

Oh, and my merino buff that I had across my mouth froze solid. Took it off with difficulty at work, and the front part was as stiff as a board.  -14C ftw
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 06 December, 2010, 11:54:07 am
I didn't have much ice apart from our road and the next, which were tricky even to walk up. The near miss I had was nothing to do with the ice - there was a half brick in the road and a 4x4 hit it and pinged it into my front wheel, causing me to wobble alarmingly and only just stay up :-\. It was rather scary. On top of that, the lurgy meant it took an hour to do a 40 minute ride. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 06 December, 2010, 02:05:32 pm
I bimbled in with no problems whatsoever this morning, even though it was below zero (and still is).  I had to use my single-speed snow bike, Vince, since I've got a broken spoke on the commuter, and I haven't had a chance to pop the cassette off and see what size spokes I need.

Vince has a 52" gear, which meant I wasn't fast, but was dead easy on the icy and snowy bits (mostly for the first half of the ride).  With the tyres only pumped up to a relatively low pressure (30-40psi), I'm never going to win any races on it, but it was dead easy, and rock solid stable.

Of course, when I got to work, I realised that whilst buggering about with swapping bikes and panniers, I'd managed to leave the lock which I had a key for at home, and the also left the key at home for the lock which I leave at work. :-\

I popped both wheels out, and carried those up to the lab, on the basis that not many people will steal a bicycle with no wheels (and the tyres are worth as much as the frame!)  I went down later and put a spare laptop security cable around the frame, just in case someone managed to find some unsecured wheels, and nicked those with my frame.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 06 December, 2010, 02:40:40 pm
I commuted on snow tyres but it was all clear.  Apart from an icy puddle which I saw (but didn't ride over) on an ungritted road.

Very slow - combination of rowing machine induced fatigue and heavy slow tyres.  It's easier on the hard packed snow in some ways.

I also had a look at the gritting map.  The road down to the gym isn't gritted.  This is a problem: it is in an old gravel pit, which means I hit 20mph coasting down the hill.  Not good when being tailgated by a taxi: if it's icy, and I have snow tyres, I can probably stop better than he can.  :facepalm:  OTOH once this cold snap's over, if there is the odd cold day and all the main routes are ice free, but this one road is icy.  I don't like riding on snow tyres on 99% gritted roads on the off chance there's some ice on on or two roads around the place.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Domestique on 06 December, 2010, 04:46:33 pm
I was shocked just how much snow/ice is still around as soon as I came off the main roads  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 06 December, 2010, 06:02:42 pm
Bloody hell!  That was cold.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 06 December, 2010, 06:36:13 pm
Not much fun today. Chunky icy bits... really cold... fog...

 :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 06 December, 2010, 07:53:03 pm
By Darwin, that was cold!  I really enjoyed that.  Even the black-ice spotting.  Perverse, I realise.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 06 December, 2010, 09:43:01 pm
Getting home took forever. I can't blame it on ice or snow, there wasn't much on the road at all. Had to stop 3 times to change light batteries and adjust clothing. But blimey, just over 2 hours for the 27.5 miles is ridiculous. Either there is something wrong with the bike (doubt it), something wrong with me, or the cold (-11) is just making it such hard work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 07 December, 2010, 01:25:05 am
I reckon it was -6 or -7 when I cycled home from swimming club AGM. Ivan kindly let me change into winter longs in his house. I was glad of that: jeans aren't warm enough.

I got cold toes, though not desperately so, despite thick Merino socks. My forehead felt cold despite a winter cap. My hands were not cold!  Hurrah for Pearl Izumi lobster gloves.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 07 December, 2010, 06:07:30 am
I am hoping my chesty cough doesn't turn into a chest infection. Might take a more direct route to work this morning, albeit it's only -6c here.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CountrySickness on 07 December, 2010, 08:58:52 am
Spectacular hoar frost in Monmouthshire today and as a result Arctic explorer ice was hanging from beard after the ride in this morning, my ruggedness profile is increasing around the office :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 December, 2010, 10:41:35 am
Commute not competed today :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 07 December, 2010, 11:03:33 am
It was -6 or so at the top of the Blackdowns last night

And every tree was coated in a thick layer of frost.  The frost was like light snow.  Some places it had fallen off the trees and it was like thin snow on the road.  The morning was slightly misty.  The water that formed on my front bike light had turned to ice by the time I got to Taunton.   There was frost on my Carradice bag too.  None on me but my scarf was wet, I guess it melted.

My rear light stopped working at the top of the hill.  Not sure if it is a switch problem or the batteries going wrong due to the cold.  It was OK again at work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 07 December, 2010, 11:05:04 am
Quote from: clarion on 07 December, 2010, 10:41:35 am
Commute not competed today :(
Broken bike or broken person?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 December, 2010, 11:06:24 am
Both.  My S3X had a problem, and I realised I wasn't up to it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 07 December, 2010, 11:27:27 am
today I wore only Calvin Kliens
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 07 December, 2010, 11:28:32 am
Quote from: clarion on 07 December, 2010, 11:06:24 am
Both.  My S3X had a problem, and I realised I wasn't up to it.

Oh dear  :( I hope you and the bike get well soon!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 December, 2010, 11:28:55 am
Quote from: jogler on 07 December, 2010, 11:27:27 am
today I wore only Calvin Kliens

Yes, he called.  He wants them back. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 December, 2010, 11:29:10 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 07 December, 2010, 11:28:32 am
Quote from: clarion on 07 December, 2010, 11:06:24 am
Both.  My S3X had a problem, and I realised I wasn't up to it.

Oh dear  :( I hope you and the bike get well soon!

Ta :-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 07 December, 2010, 11:31:19 am
Quote from: clarion on 07 December, 2010, 11:28:55 am
Quote from: jogler on 07 December, 2010, 11:27:27 am
today I wore only Calvin Kliens

Yes, he called.  He wants them back. ;D

 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 07 December, 2010, 03:00:44 pm
Quote from: jogler on 07 December, 2010, 11:27:27 am
today I wore only Calvin Kliens

Calvins Klein what?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 07 December, 2010, 03:12:33 pm
yes
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 07 December, 2010, 03:34:30 pm
This morning the temperature was -10oC. So it was the first time my fingers hurt.  To offset this as I left the village the trees on either side that had been shrouded in freezing fog the previous night were covered in frost making a fantastic winter scene that Christmas card photographers would kill to get.  My bike that rode through the fog last night had ice along the top tube, handle bars and back brake lever.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 07 December, 2010, 04:42:38 pm
There are still random patches of ice on London roads, ready to catch the unobservant.  They don't always show up in the expected places - encountered some on the central strip of the road.  At one of the embassies on Palace Green, the staff seem to have been washing their driveway with a hose - the result is like a thick, clear sheet glass.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 07 December, 2010, 05:27:26 pm
When I commuted this morning, it was -7.2:

http://www.cl.cam.ac.uk/research/dtg/weather/daily-text.cgi?2010-12-07

It's currently -4 and dropping.

 :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 07 December, 2010, 08:23:13 pm
So, you hard nuts still riding which of these is true:-
I am a cycling god and will ride, whatever
I have studded tyres
I ride less than 10 miles
All the roads (apart from my residential street) are clear of ice.



Just wondering, as I'm not tempted to slip on the bikesters and set out at 6.15am, for fear of slipping and breaking me and/or bike.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 07 December, 2010, 08:31:47 pm
Quote from: boab on 07 December, 2010, 08:23:13 pm
So, you hard nuts still riding which of these is true:-
I am a cycling god and will ride, whatever
I have studded tyres
I ride less than 10 miles
All the roads (apart from my residential street) are clear of ice.

These two:

* I have studded tyres
* I ride less than 10 miles

(if we're talking about my current home<->station commute).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 December, 2010, 08:36:39 pm
Slighty embarrassed, since I am barely riding, though I was up to and including Thursday, and will be again tomorrow


I am a cycling god and will ride, whatever  Hardly, but it takes summat serious to stop me riding

I have studded tyres  No.  Oi, Wiggle, sort it! (though I have swapped for chunkier rear tyres on both bikes)

I ride less than 10 miles  Nah.

All the roads (apart from my residential street) are clear of ice.  Getting there, but not last week.



Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 07 December, 2010, 08:37:25 pm
Yesterday was the first time in 3 years that I bailed to the train on the way home. Lurgy was the problem and since I finished late enough I rode to Balham and caught a train. The couple of flat miles to Balham were a struggle :(.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 December, 2010, 08:43:02 pm
But, otherwise, you are a Cycling God(dess), aren't you? :-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 07 December, 2010, 09:30:01 pm
I am a cycling god and will ride, whatever

No deity, I. However, I have no other means (realistically) of getting to work; not driven to work since 2006. In the past 10 days, cycling was the only way to actually get to work on some days...

I have studded tyres

Yes. They have performed well for over 800km so far this year.

I ride less than 10 miles

Nope - 30 miles is the minimum per day...

All the roads (apart from my residential street) are clear of ice.

Not yet  :( - about 2 miles are packed snow, another mile is icy and the rest have bits of white stuff on all the verges with ice patches.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 07 December, 2010, 09:36:02 pm
Quote from: pdm on 07 December, 2010, 09:30:01 pm
Not yet  :( - about 2 miles are packed snow, another mile is icy and the rest have bits of white stuff on all the verges with ice patches.

About half of my 13 miles still has ice down the middle of the lane and/or where I would be riding.
Clearly I am just a big gurls blouse.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adam on 07 December, 2010, 10:08:39 pm
Quote from: boab on 07 December, 2010, 08:23:13 pm
So, you hard nuts still riding which of these is true:-
I am a cycling god and will ride, whatever
I have studded tyres
I ride less than 10 miles
All the roads (apart from my residential street) are clear of ice.



Just wondering, as I'm not tempted to slip on the bikesters and set out at 6.15am, for fear of slipping and breaking me and/or bike.



Yes,
Yes,
Yes,
No.

If you're heading out early then you can expect ice.  So if you don't feel safe, don't risk it.  You're being sensible, not a big gurl's blouse.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 07 December, 2010, 10:13:46 pm
No cycling god me, but, blimey. The difference between pushing gert fat low pressure studded tyres through snow and pumped up properly 25mm rubber on a snow free road certainly makes me feel like one.

I was flying last night.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 07 December, 2010, 10:16:55 pm
Quote from: boab on 07 December, 2010, 08:23:13 pm
So, you hard nuts still riding which of these is true:-
I am a cycling god and will ride, whatever

Well, I don't like to admit defeat.

Quote
I have studded tyres

No.

Quote
I ride less than 10 miles

You mean one way?  Sometimes just under, sometimes twice that, depending.

Quote
All the roads (apart from my residential street) are clear of ice.

No, not even here in London.  This evening, I turned a corner on a route I only take once every other week, looked at the ice forming on the road and thought "Oh, yes, that's a Florist's on the corner".  Then there's the ice in the gutters and the black ice on the less busy roads.

Quote
Just wondering, as I'm not tempted to slip on the bikesters and set out at 6.15am, for fear of slipping and breaking me and/or bike

Vigilance and caution will see you through.  I say that having come off my bike once in the last two weeks.  It's a learning experience and teaches you to be a better cyclist.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 07 December, 2010, 10:23:29 pm
Probably sums up most people on here.

I just can't be arsed to not cycle.  It's possible, but much too complicated
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 08 December, 2010, 12:23:43 am
I haven't ridden my bike since the first snow.  I rode Dearly_Beloved's, with the snow tyres on, a little bit.  It's just not worth falling off and damaging myself - which I would and, given that I spent today doing a total of 5 school runs and dealing with 4 kids because my mate had to go and get her leg replastered at the fracture clinic, I think we have more than enough broken bones to be dealing with round here.  It a couple of weeks til Christmas then a few weeks in the new year and then I'll be back to riding to work some of the time, probably leave it a few weeks extra before I start the Friday commute again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 08 December, 2010, 06:59:43 am
I am a cycling god and will ride, whatever
 - Nope.  

I have studded tyres
Well unless KidJambo can persuade his employers to come up with summat in 700x23 that'd be a no. :)

- I ride less than 10 miles
  30 to 40 (per day)

All the roads (apart from my residential street) are clear of ice.
  Officially main roads are. Unfortunately not quite clear enough to risk playing with the big quarry lorries on the  A417 and my usual route is never trustworthy in this weather.


Quote
Just wondering, as I'm not tempted to slip on the bikesters and set out at 6.15am, for fear of slipping and breaking me and/or bike.
You  and me both. I've got one bike and while I loathe driving to work I'll tolerate it.  I'd rather run the risk of ploughing the car into ditch  than the bike ditto (bikes are important) or losing it on a 6" patch of ice in front of a sodding great artic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 08 December, 2010, 08:11:08 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 07 December, 2010, 10:16:55 pm



Vigilance and caution will see you through.  I say that having come off my bike once in the last two weeks.  It's a learning experience and teaches you to be a better cyclist.
Sometimes yes, but not always.  On occasions, even the most careful, skillful and experienced of us can hit a patch of black ice at slightly the wrong angle, shift our weight slightly too quickly (insert an almost infinite possible scenarios in the current conditions).  And what about the mistakes of others impacting on us?   Of course, we take risks every day and make judgements about those risks, but the risks of doing serious damage to yourself however good a cyclist you are  are greatly increased at the moment.  In this situation some of us will make the decision to ride, some won't.  Having said that, I have been riding through this weather, but did ditch the lightweight, skinny tyred Holdsworth in favour of my solid offroad Roberts tourer.  Also took it up to Greenwich Park for a romp through the snow.  However, the risks of serious harm are much less from a fall on deep snow in a traffic free park than on hard ice covered tarmac surrounded by large heavy fast moving vehicles.  If you ride regularly in these conditions, of course you'll get better at it but your chances of serious hurt are increased and your avoidance of it due to a greater proportion of luck than in more normal conditions.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 08 December, 2010, 08:19:56 am
So, you hard nuts still riding which of these is true:-
I am a cycling god and will ride, whatever
   More of a stubborn b'stard than a cycling god

I have studded tyres
   Nope

I ride less than 10 miles
   Ironically, the bad weather route is more than normal - 27.5miles each way.

All the roads (apart from my residential street) are clear of ice.
   Mostly true. Leeds city roads still have ice, and rural roads on way home sometimes have ice and snow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 08 December, 2010, 09:23:04 am
Recumbent trike FTW!    :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 08 December, 2010, 09:26:03 am
Quote from: Regulator on 08 December, 2010, 09:23:04 am
Recumbent trike FTW!    :thumbsup:

I'm quite amused how so many seem to ignore your good sense and judgement in using a suitable cycle, a bit like studded tyres.  Riding in these conditions is not rocket science.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 08 December, 2010, 09:47:19 am
What's FTW?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: eck on 08 December, 2010, 09:50:59 am
Quote from: jogler on 08 December, 2010, 09:47:19 am
What's FTW?
This (http://www.gaarde.org/Acronyms/) is my friend for decoding all those TLAs.  :thumbsup:

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 08 December, 2010, 09:55:32 am
Thanks Eck,I've bookmarked that. 8)
I had to look up TLA also
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 08 December, 2010, 10:02:23 am
Quote from: Wendy on 08 December, 2010, 09:26:03 am
Quote from: Regulator on 08 December, 2010, 09:23:04 am
Recumbent trike FTW!    :thumbsup:

I'm quite amused how so many seem to ignore your good sense and judgement in using a suitable cycle, a bit like studded tyres.  Riding in these conditions is not rocket science.
Sometimes its a matter of finances, Wendy. Not all of us can afford multiple expensive bikes, or even studded tyres.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 08 December, 2010, 10:12:09 am
Indeed.  We have a one bike each rule, because we can't afford lots of different bikes or, perhaps more importantly, the bigger house that would be required to house them all.  4 bikes and one puschair is about the limit of what can be stored in our living/dining room if we want be able to get in and out of the doors, to the table and the settee and leave a small amount of floor space for the kids to be able to do a jigsaw.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 08 December, 2010, 10:17:12 am
Quote from: boab on 07 December, 2010, 08:23:13 pm
So, you hard nuts still riding which of these is true:-
I am a cycling god and will ride, whatever
I have studded tyres
I ride less than 10 miles
All the roads (apart from my residential street) are clear of ice.

Just the studded tyres.  The commute takes 1h25 instead of 1h5 with them but it's much more possible and less nerve racking
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 08 December, 2010, 10:21:27 am
Quote from: Wendy on 08 December, 2010, 09:26:03 am
Quote from: Regulator on 08 December, 2010, 09:23:04 am
Recumbent trike FTW!    :thumbsup:

I'm quite amused how so many seem to ignore your good sense and judgement in using a suitable cycle, a bit like studded tyres.  Riding in these conditions is not rocket science.

I rode up a 1 in 6 of sheet ice the other day on the Roadrat with Marathon Winters on.  Might I suggest that a wheelbarrow is not the right vehicle for a commute in rural Devon?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 08 December, 2010, 10:43:04 am
Quote from: boab on 07 December, 2010, 08:23:13 pm
I am a cycling god and will ride, whatever

I wish that were true but it isn't. I prefer cycling to any other mode of getting about but it doesn't take much to persuade me to wimp out. I'm mainly still using the bike because it's the easiest option for getting to the station in the morning, and even more so for getting back in the evening. I live on the bus route, but the buses are too infrequent and don't run late enough to be a useful option.

Quote
I have studded tyres

Yes, though I might switch back to slicks at the weekend depending on what the weather's doing...

Quote
I ride less than 10 miles

Yes, at the moment. I was doing longer rides over the summer and I would do a longer ride in the morning even now, but that would require getting out of bed earlier and I find getting out of bed difficult enough at the best of times, never mind when it's cold and dark.

Quote
All the roads (apart from my residential street) are clear of ice.

I live on a main road...

I have a choice between taking the main road route to the station (3 miles) or using the back route, which is a bit over half a mile longer but a much nicer ride (in fact, I have a few back route options, the longest and nicest being a bit under five miles). The main road route can be busy (it was very busy this morning, I know not why) but is usually clear of ice. The back route is prone to icy patches, especially after dark, and it was on the lane behind my house where I had my last ice-related fall. If I stuck to the main road, I could probably get away with reverting to slicks for the time being - it's cold out there but the threat of snow seems to have dissipated.

If I did the longer morning ride, I would want to stick with the winter tyres because it's mostly on quiet lanes and ice would be likely in places.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 08 December, 2010, 11:25:34 am
<10 miles
Studded tyres

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 08 December, 2010, 11:47:01 am
Quote
So, you hard nuts still riding which of these is true:-
I am a cycling god and will ride, whatever

I cannot be arsed not to cycle. Even at my leaving do on Friday I will cycle back home. All the main roads that I traverse upon are clear of ice so I am one of the lucky buggers.

Quote
I have studded tyres
No - cannot afford it  :-[
Quote
I ride less than 10 miles
Well its around 8.5 miles each way.

I have noticed over the past few days that there are less cyclists on the road. This weather will deter the less hardy, but as I say if you have ice then I don't think its worth the aggro.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tom_e on 08 December, 2010, 12:42:05 pm
Studded tyres (and only 8.5 miles each way).  And/or mtb with knobblies and care before I got them.  But the latter was considerably slower and more effort.

Also found the rolling resistance increase of the marathon winters on tarmac is not big - pumped up they appear to give only a little more resistance than my marathon racers.  Heavier, for sure, but once rolling difference is minimal.  I'm seeing maybe 5% difference in commute time for a similar effort.  Not a lot of stop/start on my ride, mind.

That, plus Peter White's advice that the carbide studs don't wear any faster than the tyre, means I'm leaving them on for the season.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: geoff on 08 December, 2010, 01:14:37 pm
Fifth day on the trot onna MTB. I'm getting tired of driving those knobbly tyres. And now want it to thaw. Please.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 08 December, 2010, 01:25:25 pm
1) < 10 miles

2) because the main roads have been cleared, which is a great deal more than can be said of the footpaths (or cycle tracks). I prefer to be cycling along the road at a similar speed to most of the traffic rather than plodging through mounds of snow and ice. Some of the footpaths round here are still over 2 feet deep of hardpacked snow (typically where snow has avalanched off the roof of the adjacent house or been dumped on the path by a driver trying to dig themselves out).

I had a first on my commute home the other evening - overtook a long line of traffic going uphill up Claypath in Durham (short, steep and nasty). Ok - I was still only plodging up at my usual 7mph but the cars were only doing about 3mph because of the congestion...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 08 December, 2010, 01:42:33 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 08 December, 2010, 10:02:23 am
Sometimes its a matter of finances, Wendy. Not all of us can afford multiple expensive bikes, or even studded tyres.

Fair enough, same here.  My job doesn't require me to commute when it's this bad, but I'd go with one of the above in a heartbeat if I needed to.  I guess I'm just saying it needn't be the huge challenge and fear issue that it's perceived to be, almost anyone can do it with proper preparation.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 08 December, 2010, 07:21:16 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 08 December, 2010, 10:02:23 am
Quote from: Wendy on 08 December, 2010, 09:26:03 am
Quote from: Regulator on 08 December, 2010, 09:23:04 am
Recumbent trike FTW!    :thumbsup:

I'm quite amused how so many seem to ignore your good sense and judgement in using a suitable cycle, a bit like studded tyres.  Riding in these conditions is not rocket science.
Sometimes its a matter of finances, Wendy. Not all of us can afford multiple expensive bikes, or even studded tyres.

Finances? I'd still argue that a bike is about the cheapest way you can travel. My bike is my main method of travelling. It's cheaper than a bus, faster than foot and I can't drive. Even if I could drive, I wouldn't because of the expense. Once you've bought some tyres, you keep them till they wear out. Studded tyres are just extra expensive tyres. You can't ride a bike without tyres so you do actually have to buy tyres anyway. I can't see how you'd save money by driving or taking the bus instead of cycling.
I don't have any studded tyres though. If the weather is that bad, I walk to work and to the shops. ;D ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 08 December, 2010, 07:51:17 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 08 December, 2010, 10:02:23 am
Sometimes its a matter of finances, Wendy. Not all of us can afford multiple expensive bikes, or even studded tyres.

If my alternative is getting the train to work then studded tyres pay for themselves in a matter of weeks.

If my job were such that I didn't get paid if I didn't get in to work and my only option was cycling (like a previous job I had), then they'd pay for themselves in a day.

Being able to work from home spoils me though...

Obviously the same rationale can't be used to justify endless 60 quid purchases, but it can for a few. ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 08 December, 2010, 07:59:22 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 08 December, 2010, 07:51:17 pm
Obviously the same rationale can't be used to justify endless 60 quid purchases,

Hush!  Somebody might hear you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 December, 2010, 08:03:03 pm
I had a bit of a queer commute today, in that I took a folder on the train :(

But I had fun, especially when the train home terminated at Croydon, and I decided to ride home along the Wandle Trail, neatly forgetting that:

a)  My front light was massively inadequate

b)  The route was in large part covered by the most slippery ice I've ever experienced.

But knowing which way the rear wheel is going to go is just a luxury, isn't it? ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: welshwheels on 08 December, 2010, 08:07:20 pm
Quote from: clarion on 08 December, 2010, 08:03:03 pm
I had a bit of a queer commute today, in that I took a folder on the train :(


 
 ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 09 December, 2010, 12:13:00 am
Quote from: clarion on 08 December, 2010, 08:03:03 pm
b)  The route was in large part covered by the most slippery ice I've ever experienced.

I've noticed that pretty much the worst bit of my commute is on some of the cycle paths, Tooting Bec Common being pretty bad.  As Wow said in another thread, a mixture of icy and marginally warmer conditions can leave you with something that may be be icy or slushy, or a mixture, and the only way you can find out how stable it is, is to cycle on it. :-\ ???

I've been OK so far, but that's partly because I've felt a bit off colour, and cycling the 12 miles on a heavy single speed bike, with studded tyres on reduced pressure (30-40psi), is too much for my system.  When I've done it, I've felt quite ill, so I'm avoiding pushing things too much until I feel better.

ps I'm not a cycling god, but even for the limited use I've managed to put them to, the studded tyres make you feel a lot more secure.  I wouldn't have wanted to even try to cycle on some of the surfaces I've taken the studded tyred bike over, if I was on normal slick tyres.

Consequently this also means that the nice shiny new red n+1 hasn't even got it's tyres dirty yet. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tourist Tony on 09 December, 2010, 02:37:36 am
Quote from: boab on 07 December, 2010, 08:23:13 pm
So, you hard nuts still riding which of these is true:-
I am a cycling god and will ride, whatever
I have studded tyres
I ride less than 10 miles
All the roads (apart from my residential street) are clear of ice.



Just wondering, as I'm not tempted to slip on the bikesters and set out at 6.15am, for fear of slipping and breaking me and/or bike.


Yes
No
Yes
Yes....now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 09 December, 2010, 09:46:04 am
The temperature is a smidgen higher this morning.  What this means is that on the Blackdowns the trees are shedding their load of frost at an alarming rate.  The road under any tree up there looks like it's been snowed on

So I was glad of the ice tyres in the bit of forest at the top of Blagdon Hill

Nice and bright
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 December, 2010, 09:48:12 am
Quote from: boab on 07 December, 2010, 08:23:13 pm
So, you hard nuts still riding which of these is true:-
I am a cycling god No and will ride, whatever Yes
I have studded tyres No.  Still. ::-)
I ride less than 10 miles  No.
All the roads (apart from my residential street) are clear of ice.  Yes, now

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 December, 2010, 09:49:15 am
I rode in on my fixed using the S3X.  Much more successful than the first try on Tuesday.  lots of fun, in fact :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 09 December, 2010, 09:54:42 am
I had words with a VW Golf driver this morning. I opted for the route that took in the ascent of Quarrywood Road, Marlow. As usual I was huffing and puffing my way up, making reasonable progress (does anyone else get larynx and brachia burn from huffing and puffing 'kin cold air?) and, as I approached that hairpin bend decided that I was NOT going to try the chuffing steep apex, so I took the line that followed the dead catseye and faded broken whit lines in the middle of the road. I passed the apex and was just getting ready to resume secondary position when impatient Golf drew behind me then passed me on the inside. I am sorry to report that I called the driver a knut. I don't know if he/ she heard me but I'm sure Mrs Fuzzy (still tucked up in bed about a mile away) did.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 09 December, 2010, 09:55:45 am
Quote from: Greenbank on 08 December, 2010, 07:51:17 pm
If my alternative is getting the train to work then studded tyres pay for themselves in a matter of weeks.

If my job were such that I didn't get paid if I didn't get in to work and my only option was cycling (like a previous job I had), then they'd pay for themselves in a day.

Being able to work from home spoils me though...

Obviously the same rationale can't be used to justify endless 60 quid purchases, but it can for a few. ;)

I economically rationalized my Marathon Winters like this

If I don't go to work on the bike I will most likely go in the car
The petrol + parking for the car cost £7 a day
The Marathon Winters cost £77
So if I use them for 11 days and don't use the car then they have paid for themselves

They should last at least two winters so 11 days of this in two winters seems pretty likely

This is just the $$$ side.  There is the safety thing too
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 09 December, 2010, 10:17:26 am
I don't know what was going on with the weather earlier this morning (rain, fog, whatever) but fresh, thin layers of new ice were still forming on the minor roads of the final quarter of my route in.  Up till that point, I'd been grumbling about the weight of my Marathon Plus tyres and looking forward to the time when I can replace them with slicks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 09 December, 2010, 10:19:41 am
Lovely ride in today, was chatting to a chap on a 25 year old Mercian (rather pretty it was). He asked me if I had cycled when it was all icy and snowy and I replied 'yep' and I think he was impressed, said that his excuse was that his wheels were too thin. I complimented him on his bike and especially his mudguards which were silver metal and had looked as if they had been tapped gently into shape. He said that he got them from an old dude in Japan, who spends his entire day apparently tap-tapping away at these mudguards  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 09 December, 2010, 10:34:26 am
Google Honjo and "hammered fenders"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 09 December, 2010, 10:53:29 am
Quote from: LittleWheelsandBig on 09 December, 2010, 10:34:26 am
Google Honjo and "hammered fenders"

Aha - thanks very much for that  :thumbsup: They were rather aesthetically pleasing to the eye.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 09 December, 2010, 10:58:43 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 09 December, 2010, 10:17:26 am
grumbling about the weight of my Marathon Plus tyres


Ha! you have it easy!

Conti 4 Seasons 28mm= 280g
Marathon Plus 28mm =700g
Marathon Winters 35mm = 900g ( 35mm is the narrowest size available )

35mm wide ice tyres make Marathon Plus feel loverly
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 09 December, 2010, 11:12:16 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 09 December, 2010, 10:58:43 am
Conti 4 Seasons 28mm= 280g
Marathon Plus 28mm =700g
Marathon Winters 35mm = 900g ( 35mm is the narrowest size available )

35mm wide ice tyres make Marathon Plus feel loverly

I had Durano Plus (340g) on my bike before I switched to the Marathon Winters...

Of course, it's not just the extra weight that makes a difference - there's also the fact that you're running them at much lower pressure. (I know fat tyres at lower pressure aren't always necessarily slower than high-pressure skinny slicks, but I can certainly feel the difference on the Marathon Winters between riding them at their max 85psi and the 45psi I'm currently running them at.)

I've got used to the extra weight now, so switching back to the Duranos come the spring is going to be amazing... something to look forward to.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 10 December, 2010, 09:13:15 am
Warm, this morning: a tropical 4 degrees C.  Short sleeves and shorts were called for (actually, that's what the laundry dictated, so that's what I wore).  The snow in my street in the bit where nobody parks has finally gone, so it was the first day in a couple of weeks that I've just done my usual sprint in.

Please make your mind up, Weather.  Stay like this, or go back to definite snow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 10 December, 2010, 09:46:05 am
Positively balmy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 10 December, 2010, 10:31:11 am
Yep so warm I had to stop and remove a fleece

There was no need for ice tyres today.  For the first time this month there was no serious ice on the road
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 10 December, 2010, 11:37:28 am
Make the most of it folks - the geeks on uk.sci.weather are talking up another batch of COLD for next week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 10 December, 2010, 12:30:41 pm
Positively sizzling today! (+2C on the way in)
On normal tyres (marathon plus) for the first time in 2 weeks. the reduction in rolling resistance compared with the winter tyres is quite marked....
Only keeping pace on the A61 rather than overtaking everyone  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tom_e on 10 December, 2010, 12:51:33 pm
Quote from: tom_e on 08 December, 2010, 12:42:05 pm
Also found the rolling resistance increase of the marathon winters on tarmac is not big - pumped up they appear to give only a little more resistance than my marathon racers.  Heavier, for sure, but once rolling difference is minimal.  I'm seeing maybe 5% difference in commute time for a similar effort.  Not a lot of stop/start on my ride, mind.

Update to this slightly - I've noticed that the maximum speed rolling down hills is reduced by a fair bit more, even though my average still doesn't seem more than 5% out.  Again, this is at full pressure.

Possible the tyre's aerodynamics are worse than its rolling resistance.  That'd effect faster riders more too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: aptstarfish on 10 December, 2010, 12:58:09 pm
Hurray for the thaw... snow and ice is melting here in the north east of England... cycled for the first time since 21 Nov... it was great to be on the bike again... used mainly B roads for my commute from Throckley to Morpeth (15 miles)... The minor side roads are still tricky with ruts and some still covered... gonna get some miles in over the weekend before the next cold snap arrives next week...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 10 December, 2010, 01:00:22 pm
I was not uncomfortable today but I was overdressed.  When I arrived at work my base layer was soaking. I had reduced my clothing from yesterday but I should have gone further.  I still used my rain coat as the top layer I should have used my gilet then I would have avoided some of the sweat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: geoff on 10 December, 2010, 01:23:25 pm
Quote from: geoff on 08 December, 2010, 01:14:37 pm
Fifth day on the trot onna MTB. I'm getting tired of driving those knobbly tyres. And now want it to thaw. Please.

Yay! to work on the Kaffenback today owing to the "heatwave".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 10 December, 2010, 02:37:54 pm
Dressed up this am and it's roasting by a third of the way in (3 miles). Busy unfastening or removing at lights. Pleasant to ride in after the last few days
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 10 December, 2010, 03:10:48 pm
Last nights commute almost turned into a 'fight or flight' situation. I had ridden through Cookam and crossed the bridge into Bourne End. I was riding an unlit section of road, single carraigeway, one lane each direction, not too narrow, some cars managaing to pass me safely even with opposing traffic. I was aware of a slower cyclist some distance ahead and, when I was about 10 yards behind him I did a quick lifesaver and then set up to pass him. As I passed, I was about to say "Good evening" to the cyclist but was interupted by the sounding of a horn from behind me. I looked back to see a little van right on my tail so I just put my arm out and said "What?". Once I had passed the cyclist I resumed secondary and that is when it got interesting. The little van commenced its passing manouver and then started to pull in whilst still beside me. I shouted "Hey!" and the van continued, still closing the gap between us. At that stage I'm afraid to say I lost my rag completely and stated to shout all sorts at the van, questioning his parentage etc. A short while later, I got to the tail of a queue of traffic, waiting behind a bus that was stopped at the route start point, awaiting the service start time. The van was in second position behind the bus as I filtered on the left. There was a large gap between the van and the car in front so I went to use this to manouver around the bus. I looked at the van and shook my head as I waited for a gap in the approaching traffic. The driver then lost his rag. He undid his seatbelt, shouting at me as he did then opened his door and started to get out. I have been in physical confrontations whilst astride a bike so knew that this was a position of disadvantage. I decided to get off my bike. The van driver seemed to see this and realise that I wasn't the walkover he perhaps expected so stayed on his feet but behind his door. He then stated to shout agian saying "If you ever pull out in front of me again..." to which I replied "You'll what? I was passing a cyclist and was out before you got to me." He muttered something about me not looking then got back in his van. By now I was back on my bike and started to pass the bus. The van driver started to gun his engine and sound his horn. I just shook my head again. Once the van passed me it pulled in and braked, locking the wheels up briefly before driving off. I was shaking with adrenaline at this stage so tried a bit of deep breathing and slowed my ride down to relax.

I have no doubt I will meet him again.

To cap it all, on the ride in thsi morning, I was approaching a right turn so looked back signalled well in advance, taking the middle of the road as I did so. I then heard a vehicle approaching from behind which didn't seem to be slowing. I checked back to see a different litle van starting to pass as I was starting to turn. The dipsh*t only wnet and overtook and turned right at the same time ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 10 December, 2010, 03:16:37 pm
Fuzzy

You have certain powers and contacts others of us don't, if you know the registrations of the vehicles in question please use them. For all our sakes it sounds like those drivers could benefit from some words of re-education.

yours

an east berks resident
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 10 December, 2010, 03:17:44 pm
Quote from: matthew on 10 December, 2010, 03:16:37 pm
Fuzzy

You have certain powers and contacts others of us don't, if you know the registrations of the vehicles in question please use them. For all our sakes it sounds like those drivers could benefit from some words of re-education.

yours

an east berks resident

Fear not Matthew. I know someone who knows where he lives.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 December, 2010, 03:27:23 pm
Glad to hear that last bit.

No point in missing an opportunity for driver re-education.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 10 December, 2010, 04:23:51 pm
Fuzzy, please make sure you get him re-educated?  Anyway, I'm glad to hear you're alright!  I'm sure that was a very stressful situation, my sympathies.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 10 December, 2010, 04:30:08 pm
Positively balmy today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: αdαmsκι on 10 December, 2010, 05:18:06 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 10 December, 2010, 04:30:08 pm
Positively balmy today.

That's what I thought, which is why I took the cycle path via the hospital opposed to the ring-road hell that i've been using for the past week. I turned onto the cycle path (at walking speed) and lost the bike, but managed to bail out and land on my feet. D'oh. I then managed to lose the bike for a second time (again at about 3 mph) on the skating rink that I struggled to even stand on. The raise is temperature has caused the huge patches of ice to being to melt, but that's been coupled with a massive decrease in friction. Main roads for me this evening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 13 December, 2010, 09:50:49 am
I should have worn my over shoes, the fog / mist was a little cold after more than two weeks on either the train or as a car passenger.

But it was good to be back on the bike, even if I do need to fit an extra pair of links in the fixie chain so that I can go back down to 48 x 19 rather than the 48 x 17 it is currently running.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 13 December, 2010, 09:52:37 am
Mist at 1 degree C.  Refreshing.  Didn't suck all the moisture out of my eyes, which is what the dry cold has been doing.

I came in an hour earlier than usual; I'd forgotten how much more pleasant it is to cycle in when there are so few people on the streets.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 13 December, 2010, 10:07:08 am
Cycled to work for the first time in about 10 weeks since I completely went off cycling.

Couldn't be bothered to get togged up in all the gear so wore my normal clothes (apart from spd shoes which look like trainers anyway, and gloves) and it worked well because it is too cold to get sweaty if you just pootle.

Probably won't manage it much this week because there are various Xmas events that will involve me having a glass of wine or two, but it's a start.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 13 December, 2010, 10:14:18 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 13 December, 2010, 10:07:08 am
...it's a start.

A fine start too - and just when lots of people are hanging up their spds.  Hope the ride home is lovely for you later.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 13 December, 2010, 10:22:01 am
Thanks CL. I'm rarely bothered by the cold on my 5-mile commute, and there is certainly no ice left on my route for me to worry about, but there were noticeably fewer cyclists since I packed up in the early autumn.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 13 December, 2010, 10:30:51 am
Heavy chesty cold + disturbed night + too many layers (it wasn't very cold) + thick fog + late for train so had to put my foot down = feeling very grotty.

Still, the finishing line is in sight - ten days off over Christmas to look forward to. The thought of it is the only thing keeping me going at the moment. I'm slightly dreading a repeat of what happened two years ago though - as soon as my holiday started, my body shut down and I spend nearly the whole of the Christmas break being very ill in bed.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 December, 2010, 10:42:29 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 13 December, 2010, 10:07:08 am
Cycled to work for the first time in about 10 weeks since I completely went off cycling.

Couldn't be bothered to get togged up in all the gear so wore my normal clothes (apart from spd shoes which look like trainers anyway, and gloves) and it worked well because it is too cold to get sweaty if you just pootle.

Probably won't manage it much this week because there are various Xmas events that will involve me having a glass of wine or two, but it's a start.

:-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 13 December, 2010, 10:56:07 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 13 December, 2010, 10:07:08 am
Cycled to work for the first time in about 10 weeks since I completely went off cycling.

Couldn't be bothered to get togged up in all the gear so wore my normal clothes (apart from spd shoes which look like trainers anyway, and gloves) and it worked well because it is too cold to get sweaty if you just pootle.

Probably won't manage it much this week because there are various Xmas events that will involve me having a glass of wine or two, but it's a start.

Good on you me dear, here's to many more pleasant commutes  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 13 December, 2010, 11:09:36 am
Sore legs.  71".  Foggy!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 13 December, 2010, 11:39:27 am
Fog-tastic!

Met a nice chap called Howard, who was making his first cycle commute, Brixton > Moorgate. He was initially planning to take on the E&C, but I persuaded him to ride with me up Kennington Road and go over Blackfriars. Not too much difference in time/distance but much nicer traffic wise.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 13 December, 2010, 12:41:36 pm
Quote from: fuzzy on 10 December, 2010, 03:17:44 pm
Quote from: matthew on 10 December, 2010, 03:16:37 pm
Fuzzy

You have certain powers and contacts others of us don't, if you know the registrations of the vehicles in question please use them. For all our sakes it sounds like those drivers could benefit from some words of re-education.

yours

an east berks resident

Fear not Matthew. I know someone who knows where he lives.

Please turn up at his doorstep at 5am in uniform and haul him down to the station for a cup of tea and a chat...after all, it's only polite.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonBuoy on 13 December, 2010, 12:45:57 pm
Apparently it was 3 degrees around here this morning.  Should I be concerned that it felt warm ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 13 December, 2010, 12:59:14 pm
Quote from: JonBuoy on 13 December, 2010, 12:45:57 pm
Apparently it was 3 degrees around here this morning.  Should I be concerned that it felt warm ?

How are they these days? Still in tune?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Access Legal Guy on 13 December, 2010, 02:25:49 pm
narrowly missed, and I mean very narrowly missed, two black labs that were off leash on a shared cycle path in fog that reduced visibility to about 20m on said path.

fortunately I heard a disturbance in the hedge ahead and slowed anticipating another bike coming towards me. two dogs and their walker taking up the whole of the lane almost caught me out. Glad they didn't, I hate the squeel of injured dog.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 13 December, 2010, 02:33:45 pm
Quote from: JonBuoy on 13 December, 2010, 12:45:57 pm
Apparently it was 3 degrees around here this morning.  Should I be concerned that it felt warm ?

No I'm the same! The 1st half of this week will be postively tropical, and then the 2nd half of the week going into next week will probably not be going close to zero  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 13 December, 2010, 06:02:55 pm
I managed my first two-way commute today since 2nd December.  :o
I hate lurgy, late meetings, warm trains and icy roads. Bah.

< SNEEZE! >
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 13 December, 2010, 06:07:30 pm
Quote from: JonBuoy on 13 December, 2010, 12:45:57 pm
Apparently it was 3 degrees around here this morning.  Should I be concerned that it felt warm ?

It's because I bought snow tyres. Sorry.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 14 December, 2010, 09:10:53 am
As I was finishing my commute down Tottenham court rd (central London) I saw on the other side of the road (it's one way) a mountain bike pass me with out the rider actualy pedding  ??? thinking it was electric untill i heard the rrrrrrrr of a petrol engine and saw the fuel tank on the cross bar........this can't  be legal surely  :hand:, no number plates, there for  no insurance/tax.
London roads are wet and really dirty at the moment and my beautiful saxo-bank replica paint work fadded yellow and white paint work looks like i have just done a 7 mile cyclo-cross not a 7 mile commute  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 14 December, 2010, 11:04:26 am
I was fast today.  Got beeped when spinning downhill at 20mph.  Ah, you wanted to be at the back of the queue ahead of me did you?  Well you're at the back of the queue and I'm at the front.   HTH.  HAND.  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 14 December, 2010, 11:10:41 am
Good commute to Clapham (where I was meeting friends) and then home. A girl squeezed past me at the Clapham North lights and jumped them on her pink bike. There was a copper on a motorbike in the queue and he went after her; when I passed her a few seconds later she appeared to be getting a telling-off. I smirked, I must admit. I hate it when people squeeze past me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gaz on 14 December, 2010, 01:14:25 pm
Saw another ContourHD user today on clapham south side. Had a quick chat but no one i know from youtube. I have no idea if he know me.

Anyone know what that black stuff was this morning? my bike got covered in it despite full length mudguards.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 14 December, 2010, 06:10:45 pm
Quote from: Andyf on 14 December, 2010, 09:10:53 am
... a mountain bike pass me with out the rider actualy pedding  ??? thinking it was electric untill i heard the rrrrrrrr of a petrol engine and saw the fuel tank on the cross bar ...

Nope, definitely not legal.  With electric bicycles, it's all a bit confusing, but so long as you're not taking this piss, you're unlikely to get in trouble ie doing 60mph on an electric bike is way outside what the electrical bicycle regs allow, and most people will know that.

The moment you've got an IC engine on there, it's a motorcycle or moped or something similar.  You need a type certified vehicle (or single vehicle approval), VED, insurance, MOT, appropriate driving licence, etc etc

If the police notice him, they're not likely to be amused.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 14 December, 2010, 06:40:59 pm
The Polis once stopped LeeW in his quest and asked him if he had an engine.  Weren't interested when he didn't.  Here's Freddotu getting the same treatment:


    YouTube
        - No Tag, not a Motorcycle, it's a velomobile
   (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RfsbR0RVV7c)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 14 December, 2010, 09:45:19 pm
Stopped in at the last Lambeth Cyclists meeting of the year.  During the two hours I was in the pub, the temperature outside dropped quite dramatically.  Quite a chilly final mile home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 15 December, 2010, 11:52:18 am
I should point out that I have a head cold and my commute bike has ice tyres

Yesterday I had a race up with a hybrid in Taunton, he went up the path and I went up the road.  Eventually dropped him

Then as I was leaving Taunton (down the hill to Rumwell) a roadie overtakes me.  I held his wheel for a few miles but then started to overheat so I eased off

Last night I had a really bad sore throat and was concerned that the head cold it might spread.  Also I was snoring particularly badly

Today I took it really easy on the way to work and took the easy route in.  And the pointy nosed woman overtook me up the hill from Rumwell.  I was tempted to respond a bit as she slowed again on the next hill but self control did win out this time

Moral is, it's fun to race people but don't flog yourself doing it
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 December, 2010, 11:53:49 am
At least I had a commute today.  First in a while :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 15 December, 2010, 12:47:24 pm
It was a nice morning to ride in, though I really should have put the overshoes on.

I also need to put an extra link in the chain so that I can flip the rear wheel and go back to 48*19 rather than the current 48*17 which is seeing me drop below my optimal cadance too soon and the struggle even more.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 15 December, 2010, 01:11:28 pm
I called into the shops yesterday on my way home (mid afternoon  :thumbsup:) and packed my pannier with 5kg of spuds, 8 pints of milk and a couple of other bits and bats. I was also in civvies, with my trousers tucked into my stripey socks to stop them catching on my bottle cages (I'm a bit of a fashion guru).  Which made catching and leaving the lycra-clad roadie for dead even sweeter  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 December, 2010, 10:54:34 pm
Despite almost two weeks of not really commuting, and my return to singlespeed fixed, I really enjoyed the commute today.  I was a wee bit slower than normal, but not too bad, and it felt like I was just flying easily along, even in the rain this evening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 16 December, 2010, 07:51:04 am
bad legs toda not worth a d chiz chiz chiz
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 December, 2010, 10:11:21 am
That were fun! :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 16 December, 2010, 10:32:34 am
Quote from: clarion on 16 December, 2010, 10:11:21 am
That were fun! :)

Are you riding the 3 speed fixed regularly yet?

This is my first day of cycling after two days of late nights, one partying for work, the other ...partying for work...my legs felt it this morning!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 December, 2010, 10:45:24 am
Single speed atm - I damaged the SA hub :-[

It'll be back on the road next week, I think, probably with CX tyres on. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 16 December, 2010, 03:42:28 pm
That was not the plan. I was due to get the train with my bike from sunningdale to Gatwick via Wokingham. Unfortunately I watched the doors to my train out of sunningdale close from the steps down off the footbridge.  :-[

Instead I had to ride the 13.5 miles across to Guildford to intercept the train from Wokingham to Gatwick. 1 hour dead and 5 minutes to spare.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 16 December, 2010, 04:36:14 pm
Finished reading "From Lance to Landis".

Wished I could be back on the bike - it's been weeks since I last rode a bike to work, and it's doing my shiny head in.  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 16 December, 2010, 05:42:14 pm
Quote from: clarion on 16 December, 2010, 10:45:24 am
Single speed atm - I damaged the SA hub :-[

It'll be back on the road next week, I think, probably with CX tyres on. :thumbsup:

Think I saw this in the fixed thread.
What happened, have you cross-threaded the lockring thread?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 December, 2010, 07:58:38 pm
No, I just got the edge of the toggle chain caught under the shoulder of the nut :-[ 

Makes a mess when you put wheel-tightening torque on it. :(

Looking at the snow, I want to get the new one sorted fast so I can ride with the CX tyres :thumbsup:

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 December, 2010, 08:02:05 pm
Gosh yes, snow!  I left work at about 1730, which was a surprise, because the Christmas Dinner wasn't expected to finish till 1800.  It was a great success, though :)

Oh yeah, the snow.  Well, rain turned to snow about Elephant & Castle, and then it snowed on me for the next hour all the way home.  But it wasn't settling. 

I really enjoyed the ride.  Not remotely cold, and reasonably fast.  My legs knew what they were doing and just got on with it.  A lovely day.

I did wonder, as I passed a long line of standing traffic from Balham down past Tooting, how many drivers would have such fun on their way home tonight...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 16 December, 2010, 10:38:20 pm
Quote from: clarion on 16 December, 2010, 08:02:05 pm
I did wonder, as I passed a long line of standing traffic from Balham down past Tooting, how many drivers would have such fun on their way home tonight...

They were probably sitting in their cars and fed up of sitting in a long queue, then, as they saw you go past thought, well at least I'm not like that poor sod out there in the cold.
When I used to commute 16 miles to Dunstable (and 16 back home) I used to have people tell me that I must get cold on the bike. This was often while I stood in front of them, dripping, literally dripping with sweat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: peterc on 16 December, 2010, 11:41:00 pm
gentle pootle home with a little light snow in Hampshire. Got the clothing just about right, thought the water "proof" was a bit excessive.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gaz on 17 December, 2010, 12:16:58 am
had an RTA -
    YouTube
        - Road Traffic Accident
   (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fqCwjC2VIXw)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 17 December, 2010, 12:18:25 am
Fuckin hell, gaz.  Hope you're OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 17 December, 2010, 12:43:50 am
Quote from: Gaz on 17 December, 2010, 12:16:58 am
had an RTA -
    YouTube
        - Road Traffic Accident
   (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fqCwjC2VIXw)

Yikes, hope you're feeling OK and the bike is OK!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 17 December, 2010, 01:07:05 am
Not too fast a speed on either side, which is something.  But I've been hit by a van going at that speed and it wasn't fun, even if nothing was badly damaged.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Domestique on 17 December, 2010, 06:14:02 am
Quote from: Gaz on 17 December, 2010, 12:16:58 am
had an RTA -
    YouTube
        - Road Traffic Accident
   (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fqCwjC2VIXw)

I feel sick.
Hope you are ok
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cyclone on 17 December, 2010, 08:17:38 am
Horrible! Hope your ok matey.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 17 December, 2010, 08:22:58 am
Ouchy!!!

Hope the damage is not too bad, to you or, more importantly, the bike :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 17 December, 2010, 09:27:11 am
Rode in wearing above-the-knee lycra shorts today.  Mildly nippy knees.  I should get some more bib tights.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 17 December, 2010, 09:56:16 am
Two inches of snow overnight on the Devon/Somerset border

Roads clear on the way to work except right over the top past Nicholasheign which was covered in compacted snow.  None of it was icey so I didn't get off and walk down any of the steep bits

Bottom bracket status: wobbly but holding
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 17 December, 2010, 10:03:25 am
Trip home last night was fun.  Ride start coincided with the beginning of a vicious 5 minute hail storm*, so that thoroughly soaked me before I'd left Ciren. Then snow for the half dozen or so miles to the other side of Poulton.  Oh and there was a head wind.  I was fairly cold by the time I got home, but hell it was better than driving. :)


*Did you know; that hail stones, if driven by a strong enough wind, can find a way underneath the peak of a kepi and around the edge of spectacles?  Stingy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gaz on 17 December, 2010, 10:07:54 am
I'm fine, no cuts or broken bones which is a positive. Got some lower back pain today which i hope isn't too serious.
The bike only has a buckled front wheel which i will need to get replaced. I can't see any frame damage but it will be going into the shop for a good check over.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 17 December, 2010, 10:09:43 am
Quote from: Gaz on 17 December, 2010, 12:16:58 am
had an RTA -
    YouTube
        - Road Traffic Accident
   (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fqCwjC2VIXw)

Done that myself before.......

All OK I hope?

It looks like yuo stayed upright, am I correct?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adam on 17 December, 2010, 11:47:41 am
You were lucky Gaz.


Interesting commute home yesterday, into the strong northerly wind, with heavy snow falling.  About every 2 minutes I was havng to wipe the accumulated snow off the front lights so that I could see the road.  I also found my cycling glasses were steaming up, which I've only come across in the past in the heat of summer when I stop at lights.  At 4.30 pm in Luton, it was starting to settle on parts of the roads, although there was a lot of water around. 

So that meant this morning, the edges of a lot of the country roads had about 2 feet width's worth of ice to go over.  Although I know the Marathon studs will grip fine, it's so hard not to tense up when cycling along though.  Also, due to the fact I was going slower, I felt a bit colder than usual, as I just don't like spinning at a higher cadence than normal.  Nice to hear the sounds change as the studs glide over ice.

Good fun to zip down the middle of the A1081 towards Harpenden though, past all the cars stuck in a queue.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 17 December, 2010, 01:00:46 pm
I was pleased as I exited the village.  The only tracks in the snow were bicycle tracks.  Probably the paper boys before me.  As I was climbing through Groes Faen there was a car behind me who did not want to overtake me because of the conditions.  Behind him a car was beeping frantically.  I stopped to let the cars past.  The red car beeps me. So I resume behind the cars.  The front car pulls off into his house.  The red car discovered that he could not drive any faster and was sliding all over the place when he tried to.

At work around 10.30 the car drivers looked out the window and phoned home and asked their family to look out the window. Conclusion they went home.  I said I was going to wait until lunchtime.   The reply was you do not need to go home early.  You have a bike.  To be fair it was not only my office.  The roads out of Bridgend were grid locked as lot of offices let their employees out into the snow.

I am still here as are the train travelers and the late arrival.  I was going to go home early because of the office Christmas dinner. That has been canceled so I am probably going to be here longer than I planned. It is sunshine outside now.  Probably lethal ice when I head home.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 17 December, 2010, 01:27:48 pm
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 17 December, 2010, 01:00:46 pm
At work around 10.30 the car drivers looked out the window and phoned home and asked their family to look out the window. Conclusion they went home.  I said I was going to wait until lunchtime.   The reply was you do not need to go home early.  You have a bike.   To be fair it was not only my office.  The roads out of Bridgend were grid locked as lot of offices let their employees out into the snow.

Precisely why yuo do need to go home early. Why let work intrude on good snow riding fun?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cyclone on 17 December, 2010, 01:34:26 pm
Heck Ian! Thats reverse discrimination isnt it?? Do they know you do about 20 miles each way??

I'd just say theres another 2-5 inches forecast for South Wales today and tell them Merry Xmas!! (we have 6 inches in Swansea!!)

Take it easy!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 17 December, 2010, 07:21:12 pm
Canal tow path, snow, ice, MTB, winter tyres = fun fun fun  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 17 December, 2010, 08:19:48 pm
Cycled home very carefully and on main roads; lots of ice on the LCN route I normally use.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 17 December, 2010, 09:05:21 pm
Passed 13,000km for the year today. Had to use the cargotrike as the roads are covered in ice. Please excuse the obligatory pic:

(http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5045/5249168100_495eeb0d22.jpg)

Hliarious fun on the ice - pulled an absolutely perfect 180 to turn into the carpark at work, after generally dicking about the whole way. Too much fun deliberately kicking the back end out and trying to powerslide it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 17 December, 2010, 09:09:08 pm
Quote from: DrMekon on 17 December, 2010, 09:05:21 pm
... after generally dicking about the whole way. Too much fun deliberately kicking the back end out and trying to powerslide it.
Oh Yes.  When CofG is only inches above the ground (Windcheetah!) then I need surgery to get this grin off my face.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 17 December, 2010, 09:11:50 pm
Quote from: rower40 on 17 December, 2010, 09:09:08 pm
Quote from: DrMekon on 17 December, 2010, 09:05:21 pm
... after generally dicking about the whole way. Too much fun deliberately kicking the back end out and trying to powerslide it.
Oh Yes.  When CofG is only inches above the ground (Windcheetah!) then I need surgery to get this grin off my face.

nutty has experience thereof.  It turns out that it is possible to come unstuck.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 17 December, 2010, 11:48:00 pm
Ho, ho, ho.  Cycling to the office Christmas party was interesting enough.  Icy.  Cycling home from there was more so.  More ice, also.  Fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 18 December, 2010, 08:34:34 am
In the office now,still wearing my commuting clothes :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 18 December, 2010, 09:04:13 am
Last nights ride home was fine until I climbed up onto the Nicholashayne road.  That was mainly compacted snow.  Towards the end of the ride the ground was starting to freeze.  Ice tyres rule however so no dicey moments
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 20 December, 2010, 11:46:03 am
Didn't actually feel that cold today.  Mind you, that may be due to a) an extra (if thin) layer and b) being distracted by the sheet ice which covered a significant part of my route.

On roads where not enough grit has been put down on top of a thick layer of packed snow or ice, the result is a thick, abrasive paste which is possibly my least favourite surface of all.  It forms deceptively hard ruts and is just as likely to put your front wheel in a spin as hard rutted snow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 20 December, 2010, 11:49:26 am
(http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5284/5276532743_18d224052a_z.jpg)

Who needs snow tyres?

Pedalling round hairpin bends flat out in 8th, employing opposite lock to correct it when the back end steps out; great fun!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 20 December, 2010, 11:55:11 am
Would I be right in thinking that you're really quite pleased with your new toy?  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 20 December, 2010, 12:11:30 pm
Great fun coming in today. Felt totally secure on the Marathon Winters even over the enormous sheet of ice that our works car park had become overnight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 20 December, 2010, 12:52:56 pm
Cycle commuting was suspended on Friday.   The drivers had panicked earlier and a phone call home was alarming so I headed to Bridgend station.  From the train I looked at the A473 between LLanharan and Pontyclun and observed the road would have been easily ridden.  So after arriving in Radyr station I decided the road from the station were a little messy and slippy so I walked to the main road through the village and road past my usual turning to the easier hill.  No not going up. wheel spin so I walked the rest of the way home.   I was still annoyed that I had caught the train but later I looked at the local road closures and noticed that the A4119 was closed.  The diversion I would need over a large hill would have upset me on the down side.

This week I had arranged a lift from a colleague. Nothing to do with the weather.  I dislike the cars coming from office parties I encounter in the evenings this week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 21 December, 2010, 08:43:25 am
A mild -1 this morning (seriously it feels good) and this week I am temping in Borough on the A2, so from Lewisham its literally just one road. But at the end of the day its the Old Kent Road, and unless you are in the bus lane you literally feel in the way of the motorists  ::-) Neverthless a 30 minute 5.5 miles commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 21 December, 2010, 09:39:38 am
Latest from the Devon Somerset border

Road in front of our house has been cleared of 6" of snow by the farmer, he wants the milk tanker to get to his shed

Road down the bottom of that is ok, lots of slush but clear tracks either side.  This is the story all the way up to the Nicholashayne road.  That is compacted snow.  This is fine on the ice tyres.  Only bit I had to get off and walk for was the farmyard past Nicholashayne, where the compacted snow had been broken into lumps by the cattle and tractors.  And the steep bit down past Samford Moor, that was unpredictable as they had put inadequate grit on it so it was melting in parts

A38 was fine except when traffic overtook and cut in too quick spraying me with slush

Much less traffic at the moment
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 21 December, 2010, 02:10:24 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 21 December, 2010, 08:43:25 am
A mild -1 this morning (seriously it feels good) and this week I am temping in Borough on the A2, so from Lewisham its literally just one road. But at the end of the day its the Old Kent Road, and unless you are in the bus lane you literally feel in the way of the motorists  ::-) Neverthless a 30 minute 5.5 miles commute.

You could try cutting down Brookhill Road from Loampit Hill and coming up through Deptford and Bermondsey instead.  It's bike or bus lane almost all the way to London Bridge.  And the road was in pretty good condition this morning, only a bit of sludge on the inside of the bends.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 21 December, 2010, 04:15:20 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 21 December, 2010, 02:10:24 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 21 December, 2010, 08:43:25 am
A mild -1 this morning (seriously it feels good) and this week I am temping in Borough on the A2, so from Lewisham its literally just one road. But at the end of the day its the Old Kent Road, and unless you are in the bus lane you literally feel in the way of the motorists  ::-) Neverthless a 30 minute 5.5 miles commute.

You could try cutting down Brookhill Road from Loampit Hill and coming up through Deptford and Bermondsey instead.  It's bike or bus lane almost all the way to London Bridge.  And the road was in pretty good condition this morning, only a bit of sludge on the inside of the bends.

Thanks Redlight, I used to commute that way to get into Farringdon. I have to agree with you that that is the nicer route by far  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 21 December, 2010, 04:48:43 pm
Day two of the York commute.

Cold - check
Slippy roads - check
Cars without a clear 360o view - check
Stupid overtakes - check

Ahhhh, just like being back in Uxbridge, glad bike (city) commutes are the same the country over :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CountrySickness on 22 December, 2010, 10:11:05 am
Quote from: tiermat on 21 December, 2010, 04:48:43 pm
Day two of the York commute.

Cold - check
Slippy roads - check
Cars without a clear 360o view - check
Stupid overtakes - check

Ahhhh, just like being back in Uxbridge, glad bike (city) commutes are the same the country over :)

Do you prefer being sworn at in a Yorkshire or Estuary accent?
Commutes do vary delightfully across the country, I remember in Bournemouth cars almost never used their indicators, Lincolnshire is the home of the truly mad overtaking manoeuvre, Cardiff was the boy racer capital, while here in Monmouthshire it's whiet vans overtaking on my side of the road heading towards me at 90MPH (I must wear my night vision yellow for reasons of fsahion?). All very gentile today though, apart from the snow/ice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 22 December, 2010, 10:26:56 am
Quote from: CountrySickness on 22 December, 2010, 10:11:05 am
Quote from: tiermat on 21 December, 2010, 04:48:43 pm
Day two of the York commute.

Cold - check
Slippy roads - check
Cars without a clear 360o view - check
Stupid overtakes - check

Ahhhh, just like being back in Uxbridge, glad bike (city) commutes are the same the country over :)

Do you prefer being sworn at in a Yorkshire or Estuary accent?
Commutes do vary delightfully across the country, I remember in Bournemouth cars almost never used their indicators, Lincolnshire is the home of the truly mad overtaking manoeuvre, Cardiff was the boy racer capital, while here in Monmouthshire it's whiet vans overtaking on my side of the road heading towards me at 90MPH (I must wear my night vision yellow for reasons of fsahion?). All very gentile today though, apart from the snow/ice.
They came close enough that you could tell! :o ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 22 December, 2010, 11:03:39 am
Quote from: CountrySickness on 22 December, 2010, 10:11:05 am
Do you prefer being sworn at in a Yorkshire or Estuary accent?

*snigger*

I used to work with a guy called Aaron in Zimbabwe, and we were driving back from a client in our suits like big businesmen and got cut up by an ET (Emergency Taxi - a type of minibus, often driven by unlicensed drivers).

He shouted at them in the most English-accented Shona I ever heard, because that was far more abusive than using his normal accent.  LMAO!  He was so funny.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 22 December, 2010, 11:56:41 am
Quote from: CountrySickness on 22 December, 2010, 10:11:05 am
Quote from: tiermat on 21 December, 2010, 04:48:43 pm
Day two of the York commute.

Cold - check
Slippy roads - check
Cars without a clear 360o view - check
Stupid overtakes - check

Ahhhh, just like being back in Uxbridge, glad bike (city) commutes are the same the country over :)

Do you prefer being sworn at in a Yorkshire or Estuary accent?
Commutes do vary delightfully across the country, I remember in Bournemouth cars almost never used their indicators, Lincolnshire is the home of the truly mad overtaking manoeuvre, Cardiff was the boy racer capital, while here in Monmouthshire it's whiet vans overtaking on my side of the road heading towards me at 90MPH (I must wear my night vision yellow for reasons of fsahion?). All very gentile today though, apart from the snow/ice.

Yorkshire, natch, makes me feel at home :)

Today just a repeat of the last two day, barring the idiot who thought his line should be with his near side wheels in the bike lane, despite having a whole car lane to drive in!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 22 December, 2010, 06:50:15 pm
Ah, the joys of being a cycling city :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 23 December, 2010, 11:50:39 am
First commute on the Ice spikers. Not very icy, but they need running in :). Everyone seems to have stopped for Christmas early this year - the roads were really quiet at 8am :D. Apparently everyone was in shops at 10.15 instead.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 23 December, 2010, 11:52:38 am
This morning it was a stupid old bird in a Fiat Panda, whole lane to herself, near side wheels in cycle lane....

Time for boudica style hub blades I think....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 23 December, 2010, 11:57:53 am
Last day today

This morning was colder which was good as it made the snow firmer

Slightly less traffic on the lanes, I guess the main road is that much easier and the car/van/lorry drivers have now realised this
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 24 December, 2010, 10:59:19 am
Rode in on the MTB, as there's plenty of snow around in Darlo, and not enough cars to clear the roads.  A git in a tranny van cut right across my path, but as he was going much slower than me, he had to endure me ranting at him until he turned off again.  It cheered me up enormously.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 24 December, 2010, 12:52:22 pm
Last commute in for the year this morning - nice and fresh (-6c), clear roads and almost deserted - only 5 vehicles passed me on the 6km Dronfield bypass. Northerly tailwind as well. Pleasant trip for the tired legs for a change! I hope the wind has dropped/changed by this evening and that everybody has decided to go home at lunchtime.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonBuoy on 24 December, 2010, 01:10:59 pm
Still on the knobbly-tyred MTB as the estate roads are a bit slippy.

That now makes a full year that I have not used the car to get to work.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 29 December, 2010, 10:45:16 am
Brilliant!  Warm enough for shorts, possibly even sandals (though I didn't try).  Only reason I wore a jacket was I need one for when I go out at lunch today.  The roads were quiet, and best of all ... there was fog!  I love fog.  I realised my views might be different if I commuted through the countryside, but in town it's almost never a problem.  Pity most of it cleared by the time I was approaching the City.

Fingers crossed for a nice ride home tonight.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 30 December, 2010, 10:51:50 am
Rode home yesterday for the first time on the bike in a week or so I was quite pelasantly quick. however, I was too hot!
Even today I could have done without the hat under the helmet and possibly worn thinner gloves. I was already wearing my spring gloves. Woolie Boolies were definitely overkill!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nightfly on 31 December, 2010, 03:22:21 pm
Yesterday evening cycling home, pretty thick fog, out in the sticks on a rural but not traffic free road. Out of the mirk I passed a ninja pedestrain youth walking along the other side of the road dressed in black head to toe, no light. I only saw him, as I saw what I thought was a shadow on the other side of the road. A very strong candidate for a Darwin Award.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 02 January, 2011, 07:06:21 pm
New front mech needed, £29 for a Shimano Tiagra, then the chain just snapped!Front mech and chain have done about 5000 miles, and I thought it was a truism that a new front mech running on an old chain is a false economy, wish I had said something in the shop now. Bus in the morning, gah!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tourist Tony on 03 January, 2011, 11:54:32 am
Arriving at work and riding through a pelican crossing just as a lemming, family and luggage trolley start to step out in front of me. Back wheel sideways (I was already unlipped LHS and a muttered 'trucking punt' as the pompous toad, who knows all about RLJs pointed theatrically at his green man.
Which was, of course, red. Sight of shoulders slumping as I rode past without further comment. Prejudice popped? Would like to hope so.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 03 January, 2011, 11:56:26 am
Quote from: Tourist Tony on 03 January, 2011, 11:54:32 am
Prejudice popped? Would like to hope so.

We can dream
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 04 January, 2011, 10:18:35 am
Ooh, haven't ridden a decent distance for over two weeks, due to illness and holiday.  Quiet roads, today; half the country must still be on holiday.

If I switch back to slick 25s from the current Marathon Plus 28s, the commute will seem a dream in comparison.  So the question is, what's the weather going to do?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 04 January, 2011, 10:50:11 am
First fixed commute ever today, I think I coped ok, no "oh FARK" moments, and only one nearly clipless moment....

MUST get mudguards for the fixie tho....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 04 January, 2011, 11:02:57 am
Relatively slow this morning, but that was not supprising given the recent amount of time off the bike. Not aided by spending >5 minutes shivering at the level crossing whilst two trains went through.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 04 January, 2011, 11:11:59 am
Woohooooooo !

Back on the bike today for the first time in what seems like months. (I just checked, Dec 1st was my last ride, that's the longest I've been off thei bike in six years.)

Nice to see I've still got legs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 04 January, 2011, 11:38:32 am
Back to work after xmas, feels fast.  I put this down to two factors

1) I did a couple of long rides over xmas.  The second one felt easier.  I am fitter than the tired me with a cold before xmas

2) Although the commute bike still has the studded tyres on they are pumped up to 6 bar rather than half flat to grip on snow.  There is no snow on the road, plenty on the fields from yesterday.

Didn't see the morning eclipse thing.  There was 95% cloud cover
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 04 January, 2011, 12:03:45 pm
Pompino on 25mm tyres feels very very fast compared to Galaxy with 35mm winter tyres.  First bit of mildly twattish driving after just 1/4 mile.  Welcome back to Cambridge!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 04 January, 2011, 12:21:15 pm
First time on any bike since before Christmas this morning (had planned to do some riding over Christmas but didn't feel up to it due to persistent flu-like symptoms), and first time on my Brompton since it nearly died a few months ago. With the non-wobbly rear hinge and stem, it feels like a new bike.  :thumbsup:

Only slight problem is that the seatpost no longer moves freely up and down - the top of the seat tube seems to have been crushed slightly. I guess I shouldn't have removed the seatpost before taking the bike into the shop, but I'm not best pleased about it.  >:(

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 04 January, 2011, 01:16:50 pm
My commute will be by train for the next 8-10 weeks, following an unfortunate wrist-breaking incident on Christmas Eve. Not a great start to a year in which I plan to ride the Paris-Brest-Paris, but at least I can use a spinning bike to keep the legs moving.  :'(   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Access Legal Guy on 04 January, 2011, 01:36:11 pm

'caused' an accident this morning..!.. well at least that's what I was told.

Approaching a mini roundabout. Blue fiesta, already on raoundabout, so concerned by what I was going to do decided to stop on the middle of the roundabout, promptly rear ended by red honda.

Driver alights fiesta and blames me. Funnt that, I was stopped at teh give way point.

I tell her that it's nice that she had so much concern for me as a mere cyclist, but she really should concentrate on driving the car, and should certainly have been aware that another vehicle was very close to her behind.

Handed each party a business card for witness purposes and left them to it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 January, 2011, 01:42:33 pm
Might get some business ;D ;)

Oh - and very glad you weren't hurt. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 04 January, 2011, 01:51:06 pm
Quote from: hatler on 04 January, 2011, 11:11:59 am
Woohooooooo !

Back on the bike today for the first time in what seems like months. (I just checked, Dec 1st was my last ride, that's the longest I've been off thei bike in six years.)

Nice to see I've still got legs.

Indeedy: today was my first day back on the two-wheeled commute in about six weeks following illness and boy did it feel good!  Helped by On One merino jersey and winter gloves, I'm sure.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 04 January, 2011, 01:59:36 pm
Quote from: Access Legal guy on 04 January, 2011, 01:36:11 pm
should certainly have been aware that another vehicle was very close to her behind.

Isn't it the person in the car behind who's legally at fault here? I mean, regardless of whether or not she needed to make an emergency stop, the second car should have been far enough back that it shouldn't have been a problem that she did.

Anyway, that's their problem, not yours.  :thumbsup:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 04 January, 2011, 02:01:57 pm
Yeah, my understanding was that if you drive into the car in front of you it is always your fault because you clearly haven't left a safe stopping distance.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Access Legal Guy on 04 January, 2011, 02:19:57 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 04 January, 2011, 01:59:36 pm
Quote from: Access Legal guy on 04 January, 2011, 01:36:11 pm
should certainly have been aware that another vehicle was very close to her behind.

Isn't it the person in the car behind who's legally at fault here? I mean, regardless of whether or not she needed to make an emergency stop, the second car should have been far enough back that it shouldn't have been a problem that she did.

Anyway, that's their problem, not yours.  :thumbsup:

d.


probably more the second cars fault, but they could argue that an emergency stop was performed for no good reason in the middle of a junction.

It was one of those unfortunate times when the two vehicles had just entered the roundabout. The honda knew (presumed) that it was clear as the fiesta was clear to proceed onto the roundabout. The honda driver I presume saw that it was clear to his right and also continued onto the roundabout, only to find out that the vehicle in front had stopped for no good reason.

A genuine 'accident' on the part of the honda, that would not have occured if the fiesta driver had just got on with it and not been worried about hitting me. I have eyes, I had sat up in the saddle. I gave no indication that I was not about to give way.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 04 January, 2011, 02:37:46 pm
That's the classic roundabout collision, isn't it?
Number one car moves off, number two looks right, sees it is clear, continues looking right and accelerates straight into the back of number one car that has stopped for some reason.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 04 January, 2011, 02:59:39 pm
Yes, that's exactly how the front bumper of the R household car acquired its distinctive non-standard shape...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 04 January, 2011, 11:16:56 pm
I've been the driver behind. It is definately the driver behinds fault.

If fiesta drive picked up signals that you were not going to stop (even though incorrectly) she was exactly right to stop. Person behind should take more care.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Access Legal Guy on 05 January, 2011, 09:00:03 am

Even if my witness evidence suggests that she was a very agitated over cautious driver?

It would certainly not be an all or nothing case, but the accident location here would be important too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 05 January, 2011, 09:08:43 am
Good commute yesterday.  In spite of all the cars the poor driving was at a minimum.

What surprised me was the number of cyclist I saw.  :o  The numbers seemed more appropriate for weather 10 degrees warmer.

I must make note of one cyclist who shouted something to me as we passed each other along the west side of the Isle of Dogs (she heading N, me S) last night.  It took me half a minute, but I finally figured it out — helped by the stream of cyclists heading N: 'the tunnel is closed'.  Thank you for the warning, but I was just doing a loop of the IoD.  Of the dozen or so cyclists I passed, she was the only one to warn me.

This morning was a bit slow, but better a slow commute than no commute.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 05 January, 2011, 09:49:07 am
As I left the house in the pre dawn it was light.  But the quality of the light and the stark leafless hedges made the first part of the ride monochrome.  It was like being in a black and white film.
It got a bit lighter but as I came over the top near Wellington Monument the sun was rising like a explosion of burnished bronze.  From monochrome to orange.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ScumOfTheRoad on 05 January, 2011, 10:16:58 am
Quote from: Andrij on 05 January, 2011, 09:08:43 am


I must make note of one cyclist who shouted something to me as we passed each other along the west side of the Isle of Dogs (she heading N, me S) last night.  It took me half a minute, but I finally figured it out — helped by the stream of cyclists heading N: 'the tunnel is closed'. 
 

There has been a lot of discussion on the Greenwihc cyclists list on this one. Basically the contractors just decide to shut the tunnel when they want to.
It has been suggested to the Council that they use eg. a Twitter feed to warn people, but they won't do this.

Me, I just don't see why you can't be allowed to take a bike ONE STOP ont he DLR during non rush-hours. This is seemingly a non-starter with the DLR. Which is ridiculous.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 05 January, 2011, 11:22:56 am
Quote from: Access Legal guy on 05 January, 2011, 09:00:03 am

Even if my witness evidence suggests that she was a very agitated over cautious driver?

If this was obvious to you then perhaps the driver behind who must have been following for some distance should have picked up on this as well. In which case they should have held back.

Definitely the following driver's fault.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 05 January, 2011, 11:25:34 am
Quote from: ScumOfTheRoad on 05 January, 2011, 10:16:58 am
Quote from: Andrij on 05 January, 2011, 09:08:43 am


I must make note of one cyclist who shouted something to me as we passed each other along the west side of the Isle of Dogs (she heading N, me S) last night.  It took me half a minute, but I finally figured it out — helped by the stream of cyclists heading N: 'the tunnel is closed'. 
 

There has been a lot of discussion on the Greenwich cyclists list on this one. Basically the contractors just decide to shut the tunnel when they want to.
It has been suggested to the Council that they use eg. a Twitter feed to warn people, but they won't do this.

Me, I just don't see why you can't be allowed to take a bike ONE STOP ont he DLR during non rush-hours. This is seemingly a non-starter with the DLR. Which is ridiculous.

To add to the mess there's also the complete closure of the Woolwich foot tunnel.  And coming home the other day I noticed a sign on the A13 which read "Woolwich Ferry: no service until further notice".  Just took a look at the web site and there's no mention of a disruption in ferry service.  Hmmm.... 

OTOH, the ferry page still gives the option of using the Woolwich foot tunnel, and provides a link.  Click this, then another link, then you learn the tunnel is closed.  SOTR, can you mention this to someone who has links with Greenwich Council to ask them to update the ferry web page?
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 05 January, 2011, 02:10:52 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 05 January, 2011, 09:08:43 am
Good commute yesterday.  In spite of all the cars the poor driving was at a minimum.

What surprised me was the number of cyclist I saw.  :o  The numbers seemed more appropriate for weather 10 degrees warmer.


Today, interestingly, not as many as yesterday, I thought.  Explained by combination of NY resolutions and new cycling kit under the tree I suspect.  Very encouraging.

And in other commuting news, I got spoken to.  Again.  By the very friendly lady on the blue Ribble near Waterloo.  Looks like a YACFer, so, hello!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 05 January, 2011, 02:24:05 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 05 January, 2011, 11:25:34 am
Quote from: ScumOfTheRoad on 05 January, 2011, 10:16:58 am
Quote from: Andrij on 05 January, 2011, 09:08:43 am


I must make note of one cyclist who shouted something to me as we passed each other along the west side of the Isle of Dogs (she heading N, me S) last night.  It took me half a minute, but I finally figured it out — helped by the stream of cyclists heading N: 'the tunnel is closed'. 
 

There has been a lot of discussion on the Greenwich cyclists list on this one. Basically the contractors just decide to shut the tunnel when they want to.
It has been suggested to the Council that they use eg. a Twitter feed to warn people, but they won't do this.

Me, I just don't see why you can't be allowed to take a bike ONE STOP ont he DLR during non rush-hours. This is seemingly a non-starter with the DLR. Which is ridiculous.

To add to the mess there's also the complete closure of the Woolwich foot tunnel.  And coming home the other day I noticed a sign on the A13 which read "Woolwich Ferry: no service until further notice".  Just took a look at the web site and there's no mention of a disruption in ferry service.  Hmmm.... 

OTOH, the ferry page still gives the option of using the Woolwich foot tunnel, and provides a link.  Click this, then another link, then you learn the tunnel is closed.  SOTR, can you mention this to someone who has links with Greenwich Council to ask them to update the ferry web page?
 

The DLR are utterly adamant that they will not allow bikes onto their trains.

As for Greenwich Council, our local Assembly Member has been leaning heavily on them and questions have been raised with BoJo but nothing is being resolved at this moment in time  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Access Legal Guy on 05 January, 2011, 02:51:49 pm
Quote from: hatler on 05 January, 2011, 11:22:56 am
Quote from: Access Legal guy on 05 January, 2011, 09:00:03 am

Even if my witness evidence suggests that she was a very agitated over cautious driver?

If this was obvious to you then perhaps the driver behind who must have been following for some distance should have picked up on this as well. In which case they should have held back.

Definitely the following driver's fault.

A presumption. It's also possible that the second car had not been following the fiesta at all, and just reached the roundabout to find it there waiting, is it not?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 05 January, 2011, 03:21:45 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 05 January, 2011, 02:24:05 pm

The DLR are utterly adamant that they will not allow bikes onto their trains.

As for Greenwich Council, our local Assembly Member has been leaning heavily on them and questions have been raised with BoJo but nothing is being resolved at this moment in time  :(

But, IIRC, BoJo says as the tunnels belong to Greenwich, it's for them to sort out alternatives, if any.

Until this is sorted out, I'm pretty much put off most leisure cycling SE of the City.  I either have to get up at silly o'clock to cross at Tower Bridge then head back east, or worry on later rides if I'll have to cycle back in to town to cross at TB to get back home.  :(
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 05 January, 2011, 03:25:08 pm
Rotherhithe Tunnel, Hilton Ferry and Thames Clippers are, as you know, alternative crossings.

The first requiring a bit of gung-ho with little reward, the latter two relieving you of your hard-earned  >:(

EDIT - I've heard tales of front wheel removal, carrying that in one hand, the remainder of your bicycle in the other whilst you look the DLR Passenger Service Agent Operative Person directly in the eye and board their train  :demon:

EDIT2 - I have on a couple of occasions, used the Thames Clipper for crossing when the tunnel has been closed, and not been charged - mainly due to a combination of brevity of trip and too many passengers for them to get round to me before we landed. TBF this was in the summer, and at present I suspect they only carry a fraction of the traffic they have in summer.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 05 January, 2011, 03:32:22 pm
Rotherhithe Tunnel is on my "cycling things to do in London, once", along with the Hammersmith flyover, as much of the North Circular as possible and a few other bits of silliness best done during anti-social hours.

But that's another thread.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 05 January, 2011, 03:37:31 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 05 January, 2011, 03:32:22 pm
Rotherhithe Tunnel is on my "cycling things to do in London, once", along with the Hammersmith flyover, as much of the North Circular as possible and a few other bits of silliness best done during anti-social hours.

But that's another thread.
 

Hammersmith flyover is simple but use a bike with >28mm tyres. The expansion joints are a bit long and open for 23mm.

I have previously done it West to East, this means a straight approach and climb to the top and a curving desent when you are doing traffic speeds as it is a 30 limit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ScumOfTheRoad on 05 January, 2011, 03:43:48 pm
Talking about the DLR and alternative Thames crossings, the East London Line is happy to accept full-size bikes out of the rush hours. I've seen plenty on there, and the trains are really nice. Makes the DLR ban on bikes look stupid.

Rotherhithe to Wapping would be a bit of an expensive journey though, unless you already have a travelcard.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 05 January, 2011, 03:46:21 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 05 January, 2011, 03:32:22 pm
Rotherhithe Tunnel is on my "cycling things to do in London, once"
But that's another thread.
 

I've done this once, never to be repeated. I'm sure it shortened my life.  :hand:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 05 January, 2011, 03:47:42 pm
Quote from: matthew on 05 January, 2011, 03:37:31 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 05 January, 2011, 03:32:22 pm
Rotherhithe Tunnel is on my "cycling things to do in London, once", along with the Hammersmith flyover, as much of the North Circular as possible and a few other bits of silliness best done during anti-social hours.

But that's another thread.
 

Hammersmith flyover is simple but use a bike with >28mm tyres. The expansion joints are a bit long and open for 23mm.

I have previously done it West to East, this means a straight approach and climb to the top and a curving desent when you are doing traffic speeds as it is a 30 limit.

The Westway flyover sounds to be of similar manufacture. I bunnyhopped the expansion joints.

It feels kinda wrong cycling on what is effectively motorway ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 05 January, 2011, 03:51:15 pm
Quote from: ScumOfTheRoad on 05 January, 2011, 03:43:48 pm
Rotherhithe to Wapping would be a bit of an expensive journey though, unless you already have a travelcard.

I was thinking more Cutty Sark Gds to Island Gds - and you're right, Travelcard / Oyster does soften the blow.

As a matter of interest, I'm pretty sure Dean & Dyeball (the contractors) do not close the tunnel on a whim. They do so when one of the aged, soon to be replaced, lift mechanisms fails. Lift engineers are supposedly on a 2 hr call out to sort this - how this works out in practice I do not know, I've never hung around to find out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 05 January, 2011, 04:03:55 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 05 January, 2011, 03:46:21 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 05 January, 2011, 03:32:22 pm
Rotherhithe Tunnel is on my "cycling things to do in London, once"
But that's another thread.
 

I've done this once, never to be repeated. I'm sure it shortened my life.  :hand:

I've done it twice.

After the first time, I'm really not sure what possessed me to do it a second time.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 05 January, 2011, 04:08:45 pm
I've done it a few times.

I guess the worst aspect of it is the foul air you're treated to in there.

Traffic is usually so heavy in there that if you 'take the lane' you're unlikely to struggle to keep up with it - even on the exit ramp.

There's always the (narrow) pavement  :demon: The only time I've ever seen peds in there was on the day of the July '07 London bombings - most of them sporting improvised face-masks / kerchiefs.

There are nicer ways to cross the river.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 January, 2011, 05:38:48 pm
I've been on a Southwark Cyclists ride through the tunnel.  We used the pavement. The air was disgusting.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 05 January, 2011, 06:00:07 pm
Rotherhithe is fine, IMO.  Just take the lane and give it some welly, that way you don't have to put up with the air for long.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 05 January, 2011, 08:22:09 pm
Greenwich tunnel closed again tonight - was given 2 warnings.  In return, I think at least 6 cyclists heard my shouts of "the tunnel is closed". I shan't repeat some of the responses, suffice to say folk weren't happy.

Personally, it was a cold and wet trip home, but resisted the temptation to take the short route.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pippa on 05 January, 2011, 08:38:03 pm
Yep I gathered as much. When I was alighting from the Thames Clipper at Masthouse (yes, that means I didn't cycle in  :-[) I saw about 10 grim faced cyclists waiting to board the boat for Greenwich.

The boat let them all on and squeezed them onto the deck, which I guess was quite accommodating. Then again, they know it is only one stop of being crowded for quite a lot of kerching in their pockets. Thames Clippers must love it. The cyclists, not so much...  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 05 January, 2011, 09:08:59 pm
Is this a London-only thread?  I don't think I got that memo. :P

To redress the provincial balance: I biked 2 miles along the A4130's shared-use pavement from the A34 junction to Didcot Parkway railway station, at 0450 this morning.  Traffic survey was 12 lorries, 2 vans, 9 cars.

Worst bit was a 2'-high pile of mud/earth on the pavement, where a car had landed in a ditch, and then acted as a plough when the recoverers dragged it out.

Brompton + SON dynohub + IQ Cyo. :thumbsup: I got a "That's a good light" from a pedestrian later on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 05 January, 2011, 10:47:26 pm
Foggy, had to replace light batteries half way and hard work on marathon winters (on tarmac) for my first ride and first commute of the year.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 06 January, 2011, 01:54:57 am
It's fortunate I have good lights. Unlit peds, dogs, cyclists to contend with on my way home as I used the Stourbridge common and NCN51 route out of town to Quy then home via the Wilbrahams for some extra miles.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 06 January, 2011, 02:27:06 am
In a desperate attempt to collect some much-needed well-hard cyclist points, I should point out that I've also done the Rotherhithe tunnel.  Without oxygen - at least by the time I reached the climb at the other end and it started to matter.  That thing makes Smalldean Lane seem easy on the lungs.

(I've also done it while driving somebody else's car.  Orders of magnitude more terrifying.  It's like passing cyclists travelling at speed in the opposite direction on a narrow muddy towpath.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 06 January, 2011, 02:34:18 am
I quite like riding through the Rotherhithe tunnel.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 06 January, 2011, 08:07:31 am
What is a "Rotherhithe tunnel"?  Is it anything like a "Chatham pocket"?  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 06 January, 2011, 08:28:41 am
I was about to hurl a string of 'advice' at a stealth cyclist this morning (all in black, no lights) as he set up to launch himself in front of me from a side road I was approaching. I then realised it was my shadow being cast on the fog in front of me by a car approaching from a junction on the other side of the road ;D

Note to self- Wake up before riding to work ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 06 January, 2011, 09:02:11 am
Usual collection of numpty drivers this morning, although none as bad as the taxi driver last night who nearly t-boned me, he slowed and stopped at a T junction to my right, saw me then pulled out anyway....

This morning was 100meters from work and had an off, only a minor one, slipped on a patch of ice.  New Endura Humvee trousers have an extra ventilation hole now in the left knee.  I glad to report that the bike is ok! :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 06 January, 2011, 09:27:35 am
Wet.  Very Wet
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 06 January, 2011, 09:42:48 am
I wimped out this morning. Would have been the first ride to work after xmas.

Weather wasn't that bad, no snow. Just black ice. No grit and black ice all over. I could ride, but only very slowly. As soon as I put any power in, the rear wheel started going. Just didn't have the confidence to continue except at very low speed, couldn't face riding 25miles at 10mph, so turned round after 2 miles and caught the train instead.

:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 06 January, 2011, 10:11:51 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 06 January, 2011, 09:27:35 am
Wet.  Very Wet

Indeed it is.  I was glad I hadn't replaced my Marathon Plus tyres with the Gatorskins I was using before the snow, as the Gatorskins have proven to be dangerous in wet conditions.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 06 January, 2011, 10:27:38 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 06 January, 2011, 09:27:35 am
Wet.  Very Wet

Yep. I actually quite enjoyed riding in the rain this morning, except for one thing...

My Brompton has had all the dodgy hinges fixed but the mudguards are still knackered. My arse was soaked and covered in mud by the time I got to work.  :(

Fortunately, I had spare trousers and undies in my locker, but new mudguards is the only viable long-term solution.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 06 January, 2011, 10:52:06 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 06 January, 2011, 09:42:48 am
I wimped out this morning. Would have been the first ride to work after xmas.

Weather wasn't that bad, no snow. Just black ice. No grit and black ice all over. I could ride, but only very slowly. As soon as I put any power in, the rear wheel started going. Just didn't have the confidence to continue except at very low speed, couldn't face riding 25miles at 10mph, so turned round after 2 miles and caught the train instead.

:(
Err, how's that "wimping out"?  Sounds downright sane to me.  Wasn't your avatar image an x-ray of a badly busted leg / hip?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 06 January, 2011, 10:58:12 am
Quote from: TheLurker on 06 January, 2011, 10:52:06 am
Err, how's that "wimping out"?  Sounds downright sane to me.

Agreed. Not worth the risk, even if it's disappointing to miss out on a ride.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 06 January, 2011, 11:04:06 am
Quote from: TheLurker on 06 January, 2011, 10:52:06 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 06 January, 2011, 09:42:48 am
I wimped out this morning. Would have been the first ride to work after xmas.

Weather wasn't that bad, no snow. Just black ice. No grit and black ice all over. I could ride, but only very slowly. As soon as I put any power in, the rear wheel started going. Just didn't have the confidence to continue except at very low speed, couldn't face riding 25miles at 10mph, so turned round after 2 miles and caught the train instead.

:(
Err, how's that "wimping out"?  Sounds downright sane to me.  Wasn't your avatar image an x-ray of a badly busted leg / hip?
Erm no that's not me, that's Martin.

Never knowingly broken  bone in my life, just ripped ligaments off them. Since recovering from a bone disease, my bones seem to be made of adamantium.

And thanks people for telling me I wasn't wimping out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 06 January, 2011, 11:51:10 am
&^%$^&$%

Overtaking moton prevented avoiding a pothole seen at the last minute at 30mph. Computer flew off handlebars and broke. Dent in rim = £££ for rebuild but still ridable for now (*sigh*)
Marathon plus tyres immune to pinch flats at max pressure  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 06 January, 2011, 12:12:31 pm
Quote from: pdm on 06 January, 2011, 11:51:10 am
&^%$^&$%

Overtaking moton prevented avoiding a pothole seen at the last minute at 30mph. Computer flew off handlebars and broke. Dent in rim = £££ for rebuild but still ridable for now (*sigh*)
Marathon plus tyres immune to pinch flats at max pressure  :thumbsup:

Thanks for being my test pilot pdm!

And for not being the 'commuter' that flew off the handlebars and broke, which was what I read first time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MikeFromLFE on 06 January, 2011, 01:20:21 pm
Nice sit on a seat by the River Soar in Abbey Park this morning while dealing with a visitation from my least favorite faerie. Not a good time to find out that my tyre levers were of the joke bendy variety  :-\
Sharp bit of stone straight though the tread - looking at the tread left I need to make a small investment in a new front tyre. So it looks like it's my fault.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: urban_biker on 06 January, 2011, 01:55:48 pm
Wet 20k ride home last night was wonderful. It was so nice not to be cold I didn't even care about the rain.

Ride in this morning was similarly wet. Wet commutes are fine - I hate the snow/ice that keep you stuck indoors . Wet and windy? Bring it!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: n0seblunt on 06 January, 2011, 02:07:26 pm
After getting stung by a Community Support officer a fortnight ago for riding 10 yards on the pavement (my fault, stupid thing to do I know, even for 10 yards) I noticed the same 'officer' lurking hiding sheltering at the bus stop on the very same corner this morning ready to pounce on anyone making the same mistake.

The corner of Pentonville Rd and Caledonian road, right by the lovely Scala. Make sure you walk, the £30 fine isn't worth it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 06 January, 2011, 02:13:44 pm
Flash your lights at any other cyclists approaching. It's the Modern Way, and your Civic Duty.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 06 January, 2011, 03:46:28 pm
Quote from: tiermat on 06 January, 2011, 09:02:11 am
Usual collection of numpty drivers this morning, although none as bad as the taxi driver last night who nearly t-boned me, he slowed and stopped at a T junction to my right, saw me then pulled out anyway....

This morning was 100meters from work and had an off, only a minor one, slipped on a patch of ice.  New Endura Humvee trousers have an extra ventilation hole now in the left knee.  I glad to report that the bike is ok! :)

Glad to hear that the bike is OK.  It was a bit slippy out there this morning, wasn't it?  I got to the end of our street, and then walked to the main road after my first attempt at a corner.  And nearly turned around to go get  changed, swap bag and head out to the bus stop.  Glad I didn't though!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 06 January, 2011, 04:41:02 pm
What time did the ice clear, CL?

The forecast for tonight is -7 with a bit of wet sleet and drizzle. effing wonderful. Can't see myself riding tomorrow unless it's all melted by 7am.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 06 January, 2011, 08:36:16 pm
First time on the purpose-bought commuting bike (The belt-drive Trek, since you ask!) since mid November, following some pretty heavy-duty purchasing and fettling.  Good to be back. :thumbsup:

Approaching a 4-way junction between two tiny urban streets, on the more-minor one (with a give-way line).  There's a "speed table" calming structure where the two roads cross.  As I reach the junction, there's a car going straight on, from my left to my right (therefore with priority).  But the presence of that car is not enough to over-ride the "Must Overtake Cyclist" imperative firing the one remaining braincell of the driver of the car behind me.  Fortunately (or maybe not - I need a laugh) the driver of the car with priority decided to yield to the bully behind me, who overtook me as I was stationary at the give-way line.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 06 January, 2011, 10:58:40 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 06 January, 2011, 04:41:02 pm
What time did the ice clear, CL?

The forecast for tonight is -7 with a bit of wet sleet and drizzle. effing wonderful. Can't see myself riding tomorrow unless it's all melted by 7am.

Don't know, tbh - I was off past Grimston Bar, so by half 7-ish when I set off the side streets were still dreadful but Hull road was fine.  All clear (apart from bits on cycle paths) when I headed back into town at lunchtime, and just starting to get frosty when I rode home at half 8-ish.

But I don't think I'll be attempting my 30-ish mile rural commute tomorrow!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 06 January, 2011, 11:11:07 pm
hmm, maybe it was just the Acomb roads that were really bad. Don't think I'll be riding tomorrow, my stomach is saying not to stray far from a bathroom.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 06 January, 2011, 11:13:46 pm
Three other cyclists overtook me. I am so unfit right now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 07 January, 2011, 09:40:11 am
Well that was late, wet and modorately slow  :(

But at least I didn't bail out to the train.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 07 January, 2011, 09:47:53 am
Quote from: Adrian on 06 January, 2011, 11:13:46 pm
Three other cyclists overtook me. I am so unfit right now.

Agh !  I had that last night. Just on the stretch out of Kingston I realised I had Friday legs (from not having been on the bike for over a month) and TWO cyclists went past me, one on (shock horror) a Hybrid !

Not having any of that, so tried a bit harder and overhauled the hybrid but not the other chap (who did at least have the decency to be on a road bike).

Blimey.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tail End Charlie on 07 January, 2011, 09:53:22 am
Last night thought I'd try a different way home - and got lost!! Ended up cycling round a housing estate (Wythenshawe in Manchester, which claims to be the biggest council estate in Europe) for what seemed like ages. All of it looked the same.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cyclops on 07 January, 2011, 09:56:11 am
Quote from: Adrian on 06 January, 2011, 11:13:46 pm
Three other cyclists overtook me. I am so unfit right now.

I've not had that problem. Probably due to the fact it was -6 this morning and the only other cyclist I saw was going in the opposite direction rather than superb fitness.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 07 January, 2011, 10:01:07 am
It's easily above freezing in Devon and the heavy rain stopped for the ride to work

But the cold seemed to penetrate the snow boarding coat and two base layers, nasty
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 07 January, 2011, 10:06:39 am
I regret to report the denim rainlegs made an appearance this morning.

And some of the roads in central Lunnun are like fords; I just had to cross my fingers and ride through them hoping no new potholes had opened up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 07 January, 2011, 10:10:01 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 07 January, 2011, 10:06:39 am
I regret to report the denim rainlegs made an appearance this morning.

This thread is useless without pictures.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 07 January, 2011, 10:13:19 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 07 January, 2011, 10:06:39 am
I regret to report the denim rainlegs made an appearance this morning.

My natty grey Rainlegs made an appearance this morning, as did my SealSkinz socks. Both performed excellently, which is more than can be said for the crappy old broken mudguards on my Brompton, so I still got a wet arse.

Fortunately, I got an email yesterday afternoon from Simpson informing me that my replacement mudguards had been dispatched, so this shouldn't be a problem much longer, even if the foul weather persists.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 07 January, 2011, 10:16:26 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 07 January, 2011, 10:10:01 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 07 January, 2011, 10:06:39 am
I regret to report the denim rainlegs made an appearance this morning.

This thread is useless without pictures.

 ;D

There is a picture on reply 84 on this thread, should you wish to see them:

Blue jeans rainlegs for seven quid (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=27937.msg513579#msg513579)

They looked pretty much the same this morning, except wetter.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mobbsy on 07 January, 2011, 10:17:33 am
Cold and dark in Leeds, with some light snow falling. Cars virtually gridlocked for the whole of my route in this morning which resulted in giving me a warm glow for the whole journey.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wowbagger on 07 January, 2011, 10:19:29 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 07 January, 2011, 10:16:26 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 07 January, 2011, 10:10:01 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 07 January, 2011, 10:06:39 am
I regret to report the denim rainlegs made an appearance this morning.

This thread is useless without pictures.

 ;D

There is a picture on reply 84 on this thread, should you wish to see them:

Blue jeans rainlegs for seven quid (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=27937.msg513579#msg513579)

They looked pretty much the same this morning, except wetter.


Phwoooarr!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 07 January, 2011, 10:21:54 am
Uneventful ride in today, all lights on green, cars keeping out of the (mandatory) cycle lanes, and even the tricky bit where I switch lanes then back again was acheived with driver assistance (they held back).

Unlike last night, when I was still a bit shaken by my off in the morning and made a bit more pissed off by the idiot who decided to try and left hook me at the Punch Bowl lights.  I was already ahead of the ASL when I heard a gunning engine, the idiot overtook me then stuck his left indicator on.  Thankfully he realised that I wasn't turning left so stopped, my LOUD shouts may have had something to do with that though.... :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 January, 2011, 10:53:41 am
Quote from: Tail End Charlie on 07 January, 2011, 09:53:22 am
Wythenshawe in Manchester, which claims to be the biggest council estate in Europe...

Interestingly, I've heard several places claiming this distinction, but I understand it to be Shiregreen in Sheffield.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 07 January, 2011, 12:07:13 pm
Quote from: tiermat on 07 January, 2011, 10:21:54 am
Uneventful ride in today, all lights on green, cars keeping out of the (mandatory) cycle lanes, and even the tricky bit where I switch lanes then back again was acheived with driver assistance (they held back).

Unlike last night, when I was still a bit shaken by my off in the morning and made a bit more pissed off by the idiot who decided to try and left hook me at the Punch Bowl lights.  I was already ahead of the ASL when I heard a gunning engine, the idiot overtook me then stuck his left indicator on.  Thankfully he realised that I wasn't turning left so stopped, my LOUD shouts may have had something to do with that though.... :)

Taxi?  It usually is.  Between bendy buses, taxis, 'hill' starts (OK, only York hills but still....)and daft cycle feeder lane-age I never like that junction.  Still ride it, even with the cub, but don't like it.  Mind, I nearly got knocked off approaching from the other side, coming from the station, by someone coming up on my left, waiting in the slightly behind me on my left, with one foot on the curb (I'd gone towards the middle of the asl because I was going straight on, and experience has shown that if you don't occupy enough of the lane a taxi or a no 7 bus will try to squeeze past you through the junction and you'll get stopped or squished on the exit of the junction down past the Punch Bowl!), and then turning right across me, without at any point indicating.  They were on a bike  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 07 January, 2011, 05:34:38 pm
Raining again? Oh well that's just lovely. Don't tell me I need to put the Denim Rainlegs on for the journey home, too...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 07 January, 2011, 07:18:47 pm
So I put on the rainlegs, and then it stopped raining as I walked to bike shed so I looked even more mental.

In the bike shed I found another cyclist trying to fix a visitation. He'd already had one in the morning and had bought a new tube, but managed to nick the new tube putting the tyre back on with a lever. So I patched up the new tube for him so he wouldn't have to leave his nice new bike in the bike shed all weekend, and helped him fit the new tyre a bit more carefully. My fettling skills may be limited, but that I can do. We've had an influx of newbie cyclists since work brought in the C2W scheme, it's good to encourage them  :thumbsup:

He seemed very grateful, although god only knows what he made of the denim rainlegs  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 07 January, 2011, 07:26:46 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 07 January, 2011, 07:18:47 pm
He seemed very grateful, although god only knows what he made of the denim rainlegs  :facepalm:

As a wild guess.


Quote from: Wowbagger on 07 January, 2011, 10:19:29 am
Phwoooarr!

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 07 January, 2011, 07:32:05 pm
Quote from: teethgrinder on 07 January, 2011, 07:26:46 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 07 January, 2011, 07:18:47 pm
He seemed very grateful, although god only knows what he made of the denim rainlegs  :facepalm:

As a wild guess.


Quote from: Wowbagger on 07 January, 2011, 10:19:29 am
Phwoooarr!



Doubtful, but thanks  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 08 January, 2011, 12:24:04 pm
I'm still getting used to riding fixed in poor visibility. This week has seen pea soup fog, wind and floods.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 08 January, 2011, 01:03:49 pm
Quote from: Grub on 08 January, 2011, 12:24:04 pm
I'm still getting used to riding fixed in poor visibility. This week has seen pea soup fog, wind and floods.

Were these caused by your tears, following the cricket?

*hides*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 08 January, 2011, 02:34:31 pm
Two replies to recent posts both mention THE CRICKET.  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 08 January, 2011, 02:52:17 pm
Quote from: Grub on 08 January, 2011, 02:34:31 pm
Two replies to recent posts both mention THE CRICKET.  :smug:

It will get better.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 08 January, 2011, 03:28:34 pm
Magnanimous lot, aren't they?
 :P

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 10 January, 2011, 09:18:36 am
Cold and wet this morning, but not slippy.

Unlike Friday.  As I got on to the train at York, Mrs T rang to say that the road leading up to our house was very icy.  As she can, at times, *ahem* over state things, I thought "ok, it's might just be a little icy on the corner".  I alighted at NTR, set off and found the roads to be patchy icy, so was taking it gently.  As I turned off Harewood Lane into our road I found that "very icy" was an UNDERSTATEMENT!!!!  the road is about 50m long, and it was a solid sheet of ice along it's length, curb to curb.  As I was already on the bike and moving, it made sense to keep going, as getting off could have been as dangerous as just staying on.  I made it though, with out falling off, PHEW...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 10 January, 2011, 09:22:10 am
Quote from: tiermat on 10 January, 2011, 09:18:36 am
Cold and wet this morning, but not slippy.
You're not bloomin' kidding ... absolutely piling it down out there.  What a difference 24hrs makes. Consolation points for the fact that the wind has dropped, though.

Times like this I wish I'd never passed my driving test, therefore would *have* to ride to work :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 10 January, 2011, 09:47:41 am
Quote from: interzen on 10 January, 2011, 09:22:10 am
Quote from: tiermat on 10 January, 2011, 09:18:36 am
Cold and wet this morning, but not slippy.
You're not bloomin' kidding ... absolutely piling it down out there.  What a difference 24hrs makes. Consolation points for the fact that the wind has dropped, though.

Times like this I wish I'd never passed my driving test, therefore would *have* to ride to work :)

S'one of the reasons I won't learn.  If I could drive then maybe I would drive, and that would be a Bad Thing.

It was still slippy enough on the pavements that the smallest cub managed to skid on his like-a-bike! 

CL
(waving in the general direction of Tiermat's office, since I'm at work on my day off in the next-door-but-a-couple building right now!)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 10 January, 2011, 10:07:45 am
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 10 January, 2011, 09:47:41 am
Quote from: interzen on 10 January, 2011, 09:22:10 am
Quote from: tiermat on 10 January, 2011, 09:18:36 am
Cold and wet this morning, but not slippy.
You're not bloomin' kidding ... absolutely piling it down out there.  What a difference 24hrs makes. Consolation points for the fact that the wind has dropped, though.

Times like this I wish I'd never passed my driving test, therefore would *have* to ride to work :)

S'one of the reasons I won't learn.  If I could drive then maybe I would drive, and that would be a Bad Thing.

It was still slippy enough on the pavements that the smallest cub managed to skid on his like-a-bike! 

CL
(waving in the general direction of Tiermat's office, since I'm at work on my day off in the next-door-but-a-couple building right now!)

One question.....

Where's the flipping cake then :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 10 January, 2011, 10:52:13 am
Saw a barn owl in flight on my way to the station this morning. Made my day, that did.  :thumbsup:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 10 January, 2011, 01:10:59 pm
Quote from: tiermat on 10 January, 2011, 10:07:45 am
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 10 January, 2011, 09:47:41 am
CL
(waving in the general direction of Tiermat's office, since I'm at work on my day off in the next-door-but-a-couple building right now!)

One question.....

Where's the flipping cake then :)

Well, I was a bit busy riding my bike yesterday to bake.... and I just came home and discovered that someone (probably me, tbh) has eaten more eggs than I thought so I haven't got enough left to bake.  Sorry!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 10 January, 2011, 03:55:14 pm
Gosh it was slow coming in today - direct headwind all the way - up to 30mph gusting 45mph on the exposed moors apparently. 1h45 to do the 22m to work.... Slowest trip in over 5 years!
I bet it will have dropped/turned by this evening  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 10 January, 2011, 04:01:22 pm
It was uneventful, though I kept being held up by a hesitant learner driver after they overtook on a corner.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 10 January, 2011, 06:26:43 pm
First commute since 16th December due to SNO and the 'flu.  Not as bad as I thought it was going to be considering I'm still getting night sweats, although I'm way down on power.  Cleared most of the crap out of my lungs  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 11 January, 2011, 01:22:51 am
Argh, idiot light timing. Set up so that the cycle lights are ahead of the main traffic flow in the cycle. Set off down the cycle lane, come up behind a slow cyclist, and have to wait for about 200 cars to come past before you can overtake. Arsebiscuits.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 11 January, 2011, 08:49:29 am
Quote from: tiermat on 10 January, 2011, 10:07:45 am
One question.....

Where's the flipping cake then :)

Check out the noms table.


(Assuming that the delivery has been accomplished by now....)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Access Legal Guy on 11 January, 2011, 09:35:26 am

Got caught out by how mild it is out today..... it's almost spring like round my way. Took me some time to look respectable at my desk.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 11 January, 2011, 09:44:28 am
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 11 January, 2011, 08:49:29 am
Quote from: tiermat on 10 January, 2011, 10:07:45 am
One question.....

Where's the flipping cake then :)

Check out the noms table.


(Assuming that the delivery has been accomplished by now....)

I saw the cake lurking in reception.... :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 11 January, 2011, 09:45:46 am
Today was idiot macho driver day, with many examples of dangerous pig-headedness.  Just as I was emerging from a junction, a taxi driver decided he was bored of sitting in traffic and suddenly pulled to the left, onto the tip of my front wheel, without any signal or other indication.  Luckily, I was able to execute a very sharp left turn and avoid a collision by a fractional inch.  Later on, I found two drivers locked head-on in the middle of a double-parked narrow lane, each refusing to back down.  One had already collected a tailback and the other one was about to do the same.

Fast commute, though, despite having been on a sustained calorie deficit for a week, now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 11 January, 2011, 10:02:59 am
Quote from: tiermat on 11 January, 2011, 09:44:28 am
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 11 January, 2011, 08:49:29 am
Quote from: tiermat on 10 January, 2011, 10:07:45 am
One question.....

Where's the flipping cake then :)

Check out the noms table.


(Assuming that the delivery has been accomplished by now....)

I saw the cake lurking in reception.... :)
*want's to work near Crinkly*  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 11 January, 2011, 10:04:46 am
Quote from: simonp on 11 January, 2011, 01:22:51 am
Argh, idiot light timing. Set up so that the cycle lights are ahead of the main traffic flow in the cycle. Set off down the cycle lane, come up behind a slow cyclist, and have to wait for about 200 cars to come past before you can overtake. Arsebiscuits.
Sounds like a typical ride through York, that, albeit without the psychotic taxi drivers.
Lanes routes FTW :)

Got to pick up a whole bunch of computery bits for work, so it's the car again today :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 11 January, 2011, 10:31:36 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 11 January, 2011, 09:45:46 am
Today was idiot macho driver day, with many examples of dangerous pig-headedness.  Just as I was emerging from a junction, a taxi driver decided he was bored of sitting in traffic and suddenly pulled to the left, onto the tip of my front wheel, without any signal or other indication.  Luckily, I was able to execute a very sharp left turn and avoid a collision by a fractional inch.  Later on, I found two drivers locked head-on in the middle of a double-parked narrow lane, each refusing to back down.  One had already collected a tailback and the other one was about to do the same.

Fast commute, though, despite having been on a sustained calorie deficit for a week, now.


Aaah, I must have missed that memo, certainly explains why so many drivers were utter shits to me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 11 January, 2011, 10:36:49 am
Normal winter commuter out of action - bust rim from pothole on front, plinked spoke on back.  >:(
Orbit commuter developed click on bottom bracket last evening - looked at it this morning and find it is loose and the thread has failed.  :'(
Get out summer "sports" bling Orbit - back tyre flat.
Mad scrabble to get it repaired and fitted out for commute, including changing shoes to roady ones...
1/2 hour late to work  :-[

Aside from all that the ride in was pretty uneventful apart from one idiot passing too close and not too slow this time. The bike is superb and the drivetrain changes like a dream. A real pleasure to ride.  :thumbsup:

On arrival at work, however, I find the Caradice Prima fixing buckle has snapped on one side. :(

I hope my luck changes soon!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 11 January, 2011, 10:45:11 am
OK this am except at a junction where as the lights were turning green, I looked and saw a car coming at speed thro' the junction against a red light - close thing there but what's new!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 11 January, 2011, 11:32:41 am
It's not just york - I had three close calls in leeds last night, on my way home. Close, as in if I hadn't hit my brakes and stopped, I'd have been t-boned at speed. Why is it people take *more* risks when driving in the rain?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 11 January, 2011, 11:46:46 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 11 January, 2011, 11:32:41 am
It's not just york - I had three close calls in leeds last night, on my way home. Close, as in if I hadn't hit my brakes and stopped, I'd have been t-boned at speed. Why is it people take *more* risks when driving in the rain?
I've had close calls a-plenty in Leeds (in the car, yet) - I'm not going to name names, but it always seems to involve cabs from one of two particular companies whose drivers seem to be an extremely dangerous kind of crazy. I'm not saying I'm a perfect driver (or cyclist) myself, because I'm not, but these idiots don't belong on the road.

Rant over.

Would have been a good ride in today, too - bit windy, but it's definitely getting milder. Unfortunately, dropping a whole pile of stuff at the post office and then the pre-work bits pickup precluded cycling.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: geoff on 11 January, 2011, 12:29:56 pm
Just.....
......so......
................windy!

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 11 January, 2011, 01:25:25 pm
Last nights trip home was very wet.  There was a headwind too, so much so that when I got to the top of the climb from Peamore X that I had to switch to the number 3 gear, that is usually used for going UP 16% hills to get speed up for going down the hill.

At home I put various items of clothing near the fire, on radiators etc

But this morning the heavy gloves, the overshoes and my coat were still too wet to use again

So I am on spare gloves/overshoes/coat today
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nightfly on 11 January, 2011, 03:08:38 pm
Quote from: geoff on 11 January, 2011, 12:29:56 pm
Just.....
......so......
................windy!



Yeah, it's mad. Whooooooooooooosh!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 January, 2011, 03:16:40 pm
I actually did commute today, but I was in danger of not getting here, because of the lunatic driving on display.

Heeeyuge queues of motor traffic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 11 January, 2011, 05:25:29 pm
Quote from: clarion on 11 January, 2011, 03:16:40 pm
Heeeyuge queues of motor traffic.

Made worse by the occasional joker deciding to attempt a 3 point turn so as to go back and find a different route.  I passed a couple of instances where this had failed and was jamming both lanes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 11 January, 2011, 07:52:43 pm
To avoid putting a foot down at a set of lights (currently replaced by temporary battery-powered radio-controlled LED lights), I reached out an arm and steadied myself against a sign stating "When Red Light Shows Wait Here".

I kept myself amused by picturing me picking up the sign, and SPRANGGGGing the overtaking RLJing cyclists with it.  Sub-text "Can't you READ?"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 11 January, 2011, 07:53:50 pm
It just gets worse and worse!  :'(

On my way home over the tops, I get to the first bit where I have to be extra careful because of ubiquitous black ice (A stream crossing road, clear skies - see the thread about ice on surfaces under clear skies - so lots of ice (mostly black) as a result. Except I am not careful enough because it covers a much larger area than expected (sigh). Cue a dose of ice rash on hip, hand and elbow... Minor damage to STI shifter.

At the next location of concern, the back wheel does a few "I am loosing a little traction" but since it is slow and uphill, no problems.

The third location (East bound Hathersage road downhill just after Fox House. A frequent site of moton accidents. The highways people have rebuilt the road there at great expense a couple of times to make it "safer" but have yet to twig that removing the little stream of water running down a bit of the road is the cause of all the problems!) was also successfully avoided but I did stop a few hundred yards down the road to ask if a walking cyclist was OK - She had slipped on the said black ice but fortunately not come off and was walking down to the next junction to be sure of a clear surface. No sign of the motons slowing down, though!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hackbike six on 11 January, 2011, 07:57:08 pm
As my previous thread...some sort of incident down Stamford Street on the in commute...Ped incident at Mile End (return commute)...ped startled me when he crossed against the lights...didn't see him till very late split second and called him a twat and I know I shouldn't (sorry)...luckily im riding a charge plug and had both hands on the brakes... :)

Stratford was slow traffic jam... 8) Stratford is a roadwork dump anyway..and so is Stamford Street also...

Just about to check the ped incident on video...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 11 January, 2011, 07:59:25 pm
Tail wind all the way in!  :smug:

No wind going home  :smug: :smug:

(still cold, mind!)

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 11 January, 2011, 08:02:19 pm
If you don't like being called a prick, don't jump the red light across my path at the junction by Stockwell tube.  It's a particularly dangerous place to do it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 11 January, 2011, 08:02:40 pm
I found my way into top gear along Lewis Road (fairly flat) and I've yet to work out what I failed to put in my panniers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 January, 2011, 09:24:18 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 11 January, 2011, 08:02:19 pm
If you don't like being called a prick, don't jump the red light across my path at the junction by Stockwell tube.  It's a particularly dangerous place to do it.

+1 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 January, 2011, 09:26:34 pm
Rather slow commute today. :(

But fun nonetheless.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 12 January, 2011, 01:24:17 am
I overslept. Then had a fairly uneventful commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 12 January, 2011, 07:48:42 am
Fixed that for my version:

Quote from: itsbruce on 11 January, 2011, 08:02:19 pm
If you don't like being called a prick chainsawed in the leg, don't jump the red light across my path at the junction by Stockwell tube.  It's a particularly dangerous place to do it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 12 January, 2011, 08:24:21 am
One the A417 somewhere between the Red Lion at Poulton and Cirencester ticked over the 5,000th mile for my cycling year.  *Waves _small_ flag* *Takes celebratory sip of coffee*

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 12 January, 2011, 08:47:39 am
Quote from: TheLurker on 12 January, 2011, 08:24:21 am
One the A417 somewhere between the Red Lion at Poulton and Cirencester ticked over the 5,000th mile for my cycling year.  *Waves _small_ flag* *Takes celebratory sip of coffee*



Gosh, 416.66 miles per day, you deserve more than coffee.
 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 12 January, 2011, 09:04:09 am
Quote from: Ham on 12 January, 2011, 08:47:39 am
Quote from: TheLurker on 12 January, 2011, 08:24:21 am
One the A417 somewhere between the Red Lion at Poulton and Cirencester ticked over the 5,000th mile for my cycling year.  *Waves _small_ flag* *Takes celebratory sip of coffee*



Gosh, 416.66 miles per day, you deserve more than coffee.
 ;D

*snigger*
Ahh me, 400+ miles a day, what joy that would be. :) The explanation is far less impressive; for various reasons, a Lurker's cycling year runs from Feb 1st to Jan 31st.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 12 January, 2011, 09:23:13 am
I would like to say my commute this morning was uneventful, but that would be a lie.....

Started with a moron at York station, train pulls in, myself and another cyclist are waiting to get off, passenger waiting to get on stands slap bang in middle of the doors.  My words were along the lines of "that isn't very wise is it?" as I hadn't had any other incidents up to that point....

Then cycling down Nunnery Lane, a twatinagolf decides that the right time to pull out from the right is as I am FAST approaching him.  Two shouts of OIIIIIIIIIIIIII! and he still kept moving!!!!

Then past the "Dead Centre of York" a Streamline taxi decides that the right time to start pulling back in is as the front of his car is level with my back wheel.....

And I get to work to find that I have left my keys at home, so can't lock my bike up! At least I can see it from my desk....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 12 January, 2011, 09:40:38 am
Cockwomble (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=2177.msg825990#msg825990)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 12 January, 2011, 09:42:09 am
On the plus side, blazin' tail wind and rediculous speeds

On the minus side very wet and the heating is off at work so nowhere to dry stuff
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 12 January, 2011, 09:53:21 am
On the plus side, new mudguards, waterproof SealSkinz socks, Rainlegs and waterproof Helly Hansen jacket.

On the minus side, I must be a wimp cos I saw a bloke on the train in shorts and a short-sleeved shirt.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 12 January, 2011, 10:43:27 am
Quote from: tiermat on 12 January, 2011, 09:23:13 am
And I get to work to find that I have left my keys at home, so can't lock my bike up! At least I can see it from my desk....

Tiermat - I happen to know that someone on your office cycled to work today and has a D-lock and long cable that it should be completely feasible to lock 2 bikes with, assuming you can find a space for two bikes together.  With the number of cyclists in that office someone must be able to offer you the loan of a lock!  Failing that, I can drop you one in at lunchtime - I'll be passing the front door :)

Ahhhh.... Streamline taxis.  It's nearly always streamline, IME.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 12 January, 2011, 10:49:31 am
Streamline are obviously the Addison Lee of York then, shame they aren't as easy to spot, (If in that London village and you see a black Ford Galaxy heading towards you, GET OUT OF THE WAY!!!!) as they seem to drive a random* selection of vehicles

*) although for some reason I have only seen Mitsubishis, of varying sorts....

Don't worry about the lock, I have dumped my bike in between two others (your partner's is one) and I have full visibility of it from my desk.....<one sec> Yup, it is still there! :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 12 January, 2011, 12:13:40 pm
I keep thinking it's time to remove the ice tyre on my bike, but mainly haven't because ICBA.
Last night however gave me an excuse to keep them on for a bit longer.
I was pretty tight to the kerb waiting to turn left when some twat slipped between me and the kerb to run a red light, only his leg scraped across my front wheel.

"Aaargh, what the fuck?" He looks acusingly at me and then rides off across the junction.

WTF was actually your leg scraping across a couple of dozen tungsten carbide studs! I now have fantasies of scraping them down the sides of cars that annoy me...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 12 January, 2011, 01:56:23 pm
Lovely ride in past long lines of telephone boxes on wheels :). Rode the first part with clarion which doesn't happen enough. The only bad point was a car nipping between a metal fence and a reversing lorry :facepalm:, when I thought I was going to see a nasty accident. I think my scream made the lorry driver slow down enough that the car got through - it was close though. Other than that, even the big bus company bus on Burntwood lane let me out :o.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 12 January, 2011, 03:16:42 pm
Quote from: alexb on 12 January, 2011, 12:13:40 pm
I keep thinking it's time to remove the ice tyre on my bike, but mainly haven't because ICBA.
Last night however gave me an excuse to keep them on for a bit longer.
I was pretty tight to the kerb waiting to turn left when some twat slipped between me and the kerb to run a red light, only his leg scraped across my front wheel.

"Aaargh, what the fuck?" He looks acusingly at me and then rides off across the junction.

WTF was actually your leg scraping across a couple of dozen tungsten carbide studs! I now have fantasies of scraping them down the sides of cars that annoy me...

Love it!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 12 January, 2011, 03:30:03 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 12 January, 2011, 03:16:42 pm
Quote from: alexb on 12 January, 2011, 12:13:40 pm
I keep thinking it's time to remove the ice tyre on my bike, but mainly haven't because ICBA.
Last night however gave me an excuse to keep them on for a bit longer.
I was pretty tight to the kerb waiting to turn left when some twat slipped between me and the kerb to run a red light, only his leg scraped across my front wheel.

"Aaargh, what the fuck?" He looks acusingly at me and then rides off across the junction.

WTF was actually your leg scraping across a couple of dozen tungsten carbide studs! I now have fantasies of scraping them down the sides of cars that annoy me...

Love it!

positive karma
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 12 January, 2011, 04:58:34 pm
It's warm enough for shorts!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 12 January, 2011, 05:01:25 pm
Quote from: Si_Co on 12 January, 2011, 04:58:34 pm
It's warm enough for shorts!

It is on my commute too ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 12 January, 2011, 05:21:57 pm
Quote from: jogler on 12 January, 2011, 03:30:03 pm
positive karma

Yeah, you're right, sorry!  It wasn't very good of me to enjoy Alexb's anecdote, but it was funny.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 12 January, 2011, 05:54:26 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 12 January, 2011, 05:21:57 pm
Quote from: jogler on 12 January, 2011, 03:30:03 pm
positive karma

Yeah, you're right, sorry!  It wasn't very good of me to enjoy Alexb's anecdote, but it was funny.

Believe me this guy had it coming. Mikey you might know the junction concerned, but I wanted to turn left from Queensgate into Harrington Road. There's a little build out from the kerb, so if you don't move tight up to it, you get the odd cyclist who tries to nip up the inside of you as you move off. A personal pet hate of mine!
This guy got caught out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cal on 12 January, 2011, 06:34:16 pm
I had some spare time coming home so turned off at Roseburn where the cycle paths still have some treacherous stretches of a few hundred yards here and there.  Then down to the foreshore at Cramond where I had my first p**c***e of the year.   Nice at the shore though, with a really odd feeling at one point - a warm(ish) wind  :thumbsup:  A fun 30kms.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 12 January, 2011, 07:22:58 pm
Quote from: alexb on 12 January, 2011, 05:54:26 pm
Believe me this guy had it coming. Mikey you might know the junction concerned, but I wanted to turn left from Queensgate into Harrington Road. There's a little build out from the kerb, so if you don't move tight up to it, you get the odd cyclist who tries to nip up the inside of you as you move off. A personal pet hate of mine!
This guy got caught out.

Oh, I wasn't getting at you Alex, but perhaps a little at my own schadenfreude.  Sorry!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 January, 2011, 09:16:54 pm
It was uphill all the way home into the wind. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 12 January, 2011, 10:54:19 pm
Sodding Cateye computer fell off as I was descending a hill at speed on the way home from the station this evening. I stopped and went back to look for it but this was on an unlit semi-rural road and it had probably bounced into the ditch anyway. No chance of seeing it in the dark and no opportunity to look for it in daylight before the weekend. Bollocks.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 12 January, 2011, 11:05:02 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 12 January, 2011, 10:54:19 pm
Sodding Cateye computer fell off as I was descending a hill at speed on the way home from the station this evening. I stopped and went back to look for it but this was on an unlit semi-rural road and it had probably bounced into the ditch anyway. No chance of seeing it in the dark and no opportunity to look for it in daylight before the weekend. Bollocks.

d.

Forget it, you're better off without.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 12 January, 2011, 11:12:50 pm
No! I need to know my stats! I just can't enjoy cycling without knowing how far/fast I'm going.

;)

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 12 January, 2011, 11:17:40 pm
Oh well, I tried
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 13 January, 2011, 09:07:15 am
It didn't rain.  The moped waited behind me in the flow of the traffic at the lights instead of pushing up the left of the stationary traffic.  It was just about light when I got there.  And it's always a cheerful spot, the site where I am this morning.  All good/
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 13 January, 2011, 09:09:57 am
Fast last leg (ok it's only 1 1/2 miles, but it can be FUN) not 1, but 2 WVM let me through (one on Nunnery Lane and the other near the Barbican).

Arrived all hot and out of breath...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 January, 2011, 09:11:27 am
Quote from: citoyen on 12 January, 2011, 11:12:50 pm
No! I need to know my stats! I just can't enjoy cycling without knowing how far/fast I'm going.

;)

d.

You should just take your normal average stats for the ride.  But wait!  Weren't you going faster than normal? Need to up the estimate *a bit*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 13 January, 2011, 09:50:14 am
I am still enjoying commuting but the constant chore of trying to dry out clothes is getting on my wick somewhat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 13 January, 2011, 11:53:02 am
Quote from: tiermat on 13 January, 2011, 09:09:57 am
Fast last leg (ok it's only 1 1/2 miles, but it can be FUN) not 1, but 2 WVM let me through (one on Nunnery Lane and the other near the Barbican).

Arrived all hot and out of breath...

Whereas mine was one of the worst for months.  In fact, I had the closest overtake I've had for a year or two this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 13 January, 2011, 12:35:16 pm
A cracking tail wind today resulting in crossing the roundabout of A34 / A415  at 33 mph, much to amazement of WVM who had pulled out for the overtake only to realise that large metal boxes do not corner at that speed ;D

Hope the wind shifts before the return leg
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 13 January, 2011, 12:45:14 pm
Quote from: clarion on 13 January, 2011, 09:11:27 am
But wait!  Weren't you going faster than normal?

Now that you mention it, it definitely felt like I was going faster than normal...

 ;)

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 13 January, 2011, 01:11:09 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 13 January, 2011, 12:45:14 pm
Quote from: clarion on 13 January, 2011, 09:11:27 am
But wait!  Weren't you going faster than normal?

Now that you mention it, it definitely felt like I was going faster than normal...

 ;)

d.


That's the way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 13 January, 2011, 01:20:58 pm
Quote from: Si_Co on 13 January, 2011, 12:35:16 pm
A cracking tail wind today ...
Hope the wind shifts before the return leg
Oh no you don't sunshine.  I _need_ a tail wind tonight after this morning's 14 mile hill-climb.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hackbike six on 13 January, 2011, 01:29:25 pm
No commutes till next week as I have just completed 14 in the last 16...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: redshift on 13 January, 2011, 01:37:35 pm
The tailbacks went on for ages and ages.  Luckily, I was riding past them.   ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 13 January, 2011, 08:58:04 pm
It was wet, and the stiff headwind on the way in was a mere breeze from behind at hometime.

i don't think there's any road salt left on the bike now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Rimnod on 13 January, 2011, 09:27:47 pm
Magnificent and spectacularly terrible ride into work, lethargic, no power, no enthusiasm. 13.5 mph on a windless damp day. Got there climbed off and I was ever so glad. Run home a little better, just the downhill bits, uphill bit of a struggle. Weather warming up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 January, 2011, 09:55:13 pm
1.  Artic overtook waaay too close on narrow bit of Carshalton Road.  Seen later running a red light.

2.  Woman shaved my elbow to pass near Mitcham Eastfields.  When I caught her and explained, she was stopped on a 'KEEP CLEAR' :facepalm:

3.  Hyundai Tragic driver, mobile to ear, shoves his way round traffic and almost into me at constriction.

4.  Skip lorry ran red light.

That's without listing the great many numpty drivers doing the normal stuff, like blocking the cycle lane (yes, I am looking at you, Mr Plod, inter alia  ::-)

Madness.  Utter madness.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dibdib on 13 January, 2011, 10:02:24 pm
I've nearly gone a whole week without incident on the commute.

Of course, it helps that my mile-and-a-half each way trip only has 100m of road cycling, the rest being shared use footpaths/cycle routes.

Now it's raining, I don't even get numpty dog owners standing on one side of the path and stretching a trip wire extendable lead across the path while they natter away to each other...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 14 January, 2011, 01:56:53 am
Took the opportunity to cycle in without any baggage today as I had managed to build up a surplus of pants and socks at work during the week. Halfway up the first hill I realised I'd left both my pump and my CO2 inflator in my bag. A quick calculation based on the fact that I had had one deflation while on the bike in the last eighteen months meant that I decided to carry on. A mile and a half later and just about as far as I could get from any useful train station I had my second deflation in eighteen months - then it started to piss down.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 14 January, 2011, 07:34:06 am
Quote from: benborp on 14 January, 2011, 01:56:53 am
Took the opportunity to cycle in without any baggage today as I had managed to build up a surplus of pants and socks at work during the week. Halfway up the first hill I realised I'd left both my pump and my CO2 inflator in my bag. A quick calculation based on the fact that I had had one deflation while on the bike in the last eighteen months meant that I decided to carry on. A mile and a half later and just about as far as I could get from any useful train station I had my second deflation in eighteen months - then it started to piss down.

Never ever play the odds, the faeries are mean....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 14 January, 2011, 08:39:17 am
This morning's was the first commute in 5 where it wasn't continuously raining.  It still rained, just not all the time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 14 January, 2011, 08:48:58 am
Quote from: benborp on 14 January, 2011, 01:56:53 am
Took the opportunity to cycle in without any baggage today as I had managed to build up a surplus of pants and socks at work during the week. Halfway up the first hill I realised I'd left both my pump and my CO2 inflator in my bag. A quick calculation based on the fact that I had had one deflation while on the bike in the last eighteen months meant that I decided to carry on. A mile and a half later and just about as far as I could get from any useful train station I had my second deflation in eighteen months - then it started to piss down.

I'm sorry benborp but, your tale of woe mad oi larf- in a been there, done that, got the t shirt kinda way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 14 January, 2011, 09:22:01 am
Quote from: Nuncio on 14 January, 2011, 08:39:17 am
This morning's was the first commute in 5 where it wasn't continuously raining.  It still rained, just not all the time.

Last nights ride back for me also not too bad and this mornings ride just a little drizzle on some higher ground. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 14 January, 2011, 10:23:57 am
Quote from: Wendy on 12 January, 2011, 07:22:58 pm
Quote from: alexb on 12 January, 2011, 05:54:26 pm
Believe me this guy had it coming. Mikey you might know the junction concerned, but I wanted to turn left from Queensgate into Harrington Road. There's a little build out from the kerb, so if you don't move tight up to it, you get the odd cyclist who tries to nip up the inside of you as you move off. A personal pet hate of mine!
This guy got caught out.

Oh, I wasn't getting at you Alex, but perhaps a little at my own schadenfreude.  Sorry!

If you find amusement in someone getting stuck in the snow, is that Schadenfroid?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 14 January, 2011, 10:25:22 am
Quote from: Dibdib on 13 January, 2011, 10:02:24 pm
Now it's raining, I don't even get numpty dog owners standing on one side of the path and stretching a trip wire extendable lead across the path while they natter away to each other...

If ever there were a case for spinning blades on the wheels of the chariot, that would be it.

Have seen some of the most senselessly stupid and agressive RLJing I've ever seen, last night and this morning, all by assholes on "fast" bikes who can't bear not to be ahead of the pack.  Shame they don't actually cycle quickly enough to avoid a scalping.  If they were in cars, they'd be the pricks in sports cars who try and nudge you off to the side at the lights, engines revving.

A plastic container holding some home-made Mexican-style pickled vegetables leaked a little vinegar into my pack.  Currently wearing my Campagnolo top at work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dibdib on 14 January, 2011, 10:50:03 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 14 January, 2011, 10:25:22 am
Quote from: Dibdib on 13 January, 2011, 10:02:24 pm
Now it's raining, I don't even get numpty dog owners standing on one side of the path and stretching a trip wire extendable lead across the path while they natter away to each other...
If ever there were a case for spinning blades on the wheels of the chariot, that would be it.

Meh, I don't mind so much. They're "shared use" paths so I can't exactly complain at people for walking their dogs, most of them on this route at least pick it up afterwards, and the occasional trip-wire is clearly carelessness rather than malice.

Besides, it keeps my reactions sharp and reminds me that it's not a race - helpful attitude to take, with so many kids emerging from adjoining alleyways at that time of morning!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 14 January, 2011, 10:57:09 am
Accelerating away from the lights.  As I apply the full force of my spindly legs, there is a metallic ping from the back wheel.  Don't know my own strength.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 14 January, 2011, 11:02:41 am
Quote from: simonp on 14 January, 2011, 10:57:09 am
Accelerating away from the lights.  As I apply the full force of my spindly legs, there is a metallic ping from the back wheel.  Don't know my own strength.

Spoke failure?  Or did your bike-sonar detect a submarine?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 14 January, 2011, 11:08:29 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 14 January, 2011, 11:02:41 am
Quote from: simonp on 14 January, 2011, 10:57:09 am
Accelerating away from the lights.  As I apply the full force of my spindly legs, there is a metallic ping from the back wheel.  Don't know my own strength.

Spoke failure?  Or did your bike-sonar detect a submarine?


Yep, drive-side, failed inside the nipple.  Wasn't enough to stop the wheel turning.  I guess the fact it's fixed means the wheel goes out of true less when a single spoke goes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 14 January, 2011, 02:56:40 pm
I am fortunately free from spoke breakages now, but I am having a problem with the neutral on my S3X being too close to the bottom gear. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 14 January, 2011, 04:01:07 pm
Saw a bloke come off on a very visible patch of ice on the Innocent. He was fine, just embarrassed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 14 January, 2011, 06:18:18 pm
The problem with going back, after putting your bike in the shed, to the nursery round the corner and waiting to explain to the idiot mother in the silly yellow MG quite what a bad idea it is to overtake a cyclist when she can't complete the manoeuvre before pulling left into the nursery parking queue, is that when she emerges either your facial expression reflects your still-seething rage and she'll be unable to listen as she bundles her precious offspring into the far side of the vehicle and locks the doors quick; or you approach with a smile and though she speaks an apology she evidently cannot understand at all why you are making such a fuss.

Perhaps the point will work slowly inwards and find its way home eventually, like a Morgul knife.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 14 January, 2011, 07:05:05 pm
Nice wet ride today, until right by my destination where I p*&^red.  This would be as a torrential downpour started.  Luckily I could fix it in my mate's stairwell - was a staple, really hard to pull out the tyre.  Took the Rotherhithe Tunnel on the way back home, and otherwise had a lovely ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cal on 14 January, 2011, 07:39:03 pm
Quote from: Kirst on 14 January, 2011, 04:01:07 pm
Saw a bloke come off on a very visible patch of ice on the Innocent. He was fine, just embarrassed.

I was hoping the mild weather of the last couple of days might have cleared the paths.  The Roseburn Path was bad in places on Wednesday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 15 January, 2011, 03:00:04 pm
I forgot to put a belt into my backpack yesterday morning.  This is important, because the jeans I packed are ones which are too big for my waist while being barely big enough to fit over my thighs (a legacy of strength training).  At work, the sagging jeans were hidden by my jacket, but this morning I cycled back from a party in yesterday's clothes, rather than my lycra.  Ow.  Terrible case of cyclists crack, which gave me plenty of incentive to cycle quickly, get home and find a belt ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 15 January, 2011, 06:30:53 pm
Due to my bike being back at Evans for what I hope for is warranty repairs, I had a choice of underground or Boris bike.....so boris bike it was, so i am no longer a Boris bike virgin :o The pleasure of scalping other cyclists on a Boris bike is.....bloody great :thumbsup: plus i got a great work out, tiny gears on a 23kg bike  :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cal on 15 January, 2011, 06:56:32 pm
I got wet.  Very wet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 15 January, 2011, 07:31:56 pm
Had a lovely dry ride for once.  I rarely get bothered by winds since I ride a lowracer recumbent, but OMG!!!  That headwind was a killer.  The most exhausting commute I've done in some time, left me with quivering legs and feeling almost sick.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 17 January, 2011, 08:53:52 am
Wet.  Very.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 17 January, 2011, 09:26:24 am
Quote from: jane on 17 January, 2011, 08:53:52 am
Wet.  Very.

...and soaked as well.

I was pleasantly surprised not to encounter more trouble with motorists this morning.  Only one taxi driver seems to have difficulty understanding my right turn signal.  I felt very sorry for (and angry on behalf of) the many pedestrians I saw getting completely soaked with filthy water by passing vehicles.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 17 January, 2011, 09:27:56 am
I got a bit wet this morning, but it was a huge amount of fun.  Firstly, I like rain.  Secondly, I swapped the Marathon Pluses for Gatorskins.  400g less weight per tyre!  Zippy!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dibdib on 17 January, 2011, 09:46:02 am
Soaked. Didn't realise it was raining so hard!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 17 January, 2011, 10:09:53 am
If that statistic about only getting rained on 12 times a year was true, I'd be halfway there by now  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 17 January, 2011, 10:21:31 am
Yep, that was a bit wet. I really should have taken the time to put on the gaiters, overshoes and cape before I left home, as it was I stopped after about half a mile to put the cape on but the rest was too much faff.

I am soooo glad I keep a spare pair of socks in the locker at work.  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 17 January, 2011, 11:21:31 am
Very wet.  Slow.

I've spent the weekend trying to rest, in order to get the cough to go away.  I do seem to have mostly achieved that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smurphboy on 17 January, 2011, 11:25:57 am
Wet, dark, cold, pun*tu*e.

Black Monday indeed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 17 January, 2011, 11:46:50 am
First 11 miles in the car took nearly 2 hours :o! After I returned that, it got a lot better :). Waterproof walking trousers and sealskinz socks, hurrah :D!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 17 January, 2011, 01:26:54 pm
I decided to commute by bike for my night shift so this morning rode home from Bristol. The day staff arrived complaining of nightmare traffic conditions, but I was able to nip up the Whitchurch railway line (NCN3) and out into open countryside totally unhindered by traffic other than of the dog walking variety. It stopped raining as I left and by the time I got up onto the Mendips blue skies were showing between the clouds. It's great having a lovely descent of Cheddar gorge at the end of my commute. The little wild sheep things were out on the road today so I didn't manage to get over 32 mph.

I am definitely planning to do a lot more cycle commuting so long as things are not icy and I don't have to take my dogs in with me. I feel a lot more healthy and less brain-dead than I normally do after 3 night shifts in a row.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 January, 2011, 04:20:29 pm
Yes, I think that counts as wet.  I was soaked before leaving town. :-\

That wouldn't have been a problem, as I just got used to being wet (it wasn't cold), but I got a puncture in Tooting. 

:thumbsup: to the chap from KwikFit who let me change the tube in the shelter of their garage, even if I didn't really have the right sized tube, and it was a very dark corner.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adam on 17 January, 2011, 07:23:29 pm
A really nice bit of karma whilst cycling home tonight. 

Just after the High Street in Harpenden, a car zoomed past me probably doing 45 mph in the 30 zone which was also pointless as there was a queue of traffic a few hundred metres ahead. I started muttering under my breath, when another car zooms past going even faster, trying to catch up with the first car. 

Just as I was about to mutter even louder, blue lights suddenly erupt from the second car as it's not another boy racer, but an unmarked police car!  When I rolled past them, as they got the small spotty youth to get out of his car, I gave them a cheery wave and a "Well done".   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 17 January, 2011, 09:18:45 pm
I wore my Rainlegs on both journeys today.  I was all waterproofed up and was very comfortable.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 17 January, 2011, 11:28:24 pm
Thank you to the female cyclist on the single speed Kona, Your challange was good and you were very quick, but the traffic lights at the end of Clerkenwell rd to the old street roundabout is my scalp zone and you where good, very good but not good enough, checked my speedometer and i hit 28.5mph
Just a shame you finished your defeat with a RLJ at the Old street roundabout.  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 17 January, 2011, 11:43:34 pm
Quote from: Adam on 17 January, 2011, 07:23:29 pm
A really nice bit of karma whilst cycling home tonight. 

Just after the High Street in Harpenden, a car zoomed past me probably doing 45 mph in the 30 zone which was also pointless as there was a queue of traffic a few hundred metres ahead. I started muttering under my breath, when another car zooms past going even faster, trying to catch up with the first car. 

Just as I was about to mutter even louder, blue lights suddenly erupt from the second car as it's not another boy racer, but an unmarked police car!  When I rolled past them, as they got the small spotty youth to get out of his car, I gave them a cheery wave and a "Well done".   :thumbsup:
Heh.

I had one of those a couple of weeks ago when I was in Leeds - travelling down Stanningley Road (40 limit) when some spotty little scrunt in a Saxo comes blazing past me. This Saxo has a Leeds United badge covering most of the rear windscreen which should, IMO, qualify the owner for instant removal from the gene pool, but that's another rant for another time.

Further up the road, there was rather large, rather high powered car with a German marque. Studley the teenager decides that he's on a roll and decides to blow this car off the road as well - obviously a 1.2 Clio wasn't enough of a challenge for him.  In these parts, if you see a dark grey or black high-end Audi or BMW then chances are that it's unmarked plod, and yea verily this was the case and I see flashing blue lights recede into the distance.

Much hilarity ensues when I see aforementioned spotty little twerp having a little chat with a member of West Yorkshire Constabulary's traffic division just before my turn-off  ;D

 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 18 January, 2011, 07:22:35 am
_Stunning_ full moon this morning.  Yellow gold and just above the horizon, so looked massive.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 18 January, 2011, 09:35:24 am
28.54km in 59m54s <- first sub hour commute on my usual route, and first >27kph average speed (28.7kph). All because I started to chase a club rider. I think it took until April to get back to that pace last year.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 18 January, 2011, 10:02:58 am
The moon was amazing at about 7am, setting in the east.  I was still eating my porridge then

What a nice change to ride in under clear skies.  What a beautiful sunrise
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 18 January, 2011, 10:10:08 am
Fast today, cold but not slippy and the lights were with me all the way.

I love days like these....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 18 January, 2011, 10:18:17 am
That was slow, having not commuted by bike last week this week is testing.

plus I had to stop at the Surrey Highways depot at Bagshot to point out that the ditch beside the A30 is blocked, backing up out of the road gully and flowing along the road to drainaway after the blockage.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cyclone on 18 January, 2011, 10:20:40 am
Strange weather, foggy and wet in places and black ice in patches. Had a tumble and winded myself. Hip bruised and sore now.  At least it will have thawed by hometime but will freeze for tonights evening class..... :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 18 January, 2011, 07:25:07 pm
Quote from: cyclone on 18 January, 2011, 10:20:40 am
Strange weather, foggy and wet in places and black ice in patches. Had a tumble and winded myself. Hip bruised and sore now.  At least it will have thawed by hometime but will freeze for tonights evening class..... :-\

Hope you're OK cyclone! Is the bike ok?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cyclone on 18 January, 2011, 07:37:25 pm
Bit bruised thanks and a few grazes, bike has a few more scuffs plus one on the Selle An-atomica  :'(.
Now to get home for tea!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 18 January, 2011, 08:05:56 pm
this morning (as noted up thread)  was uneventful, wish I could say the same for tonight....

Approaching the lights at Punchbowl corner I saw they had changed to red and two cars had stopped at them.  The first (as in nearest to me as I approached) had a tail light out, and I thought to stop and let the driver know, but looking at the age and state of the car I thought better of it.  However as I approached the lights I saw that the car nearest the lights was halfway across the ASL.  I had to go around the off side of it anyway as the filter into the ASL was blocked by the car. As I got to the drivers window I stopped, looked at the driver, smiled and waved.  She wound the window down and I said "You are in the cycle area love" "Oh, sorry" was her reply. "Don't worry, just bear it in mind next time". I then moved forward to make sure I was able to get across the 4-way when the lights changed.  After a short pause I heard a male voice shouting at me from behind and to the left.  I turned around and the passenger of the car was remonstrating with me about how far they were into the ASL etc etc. One thing he came out with, which puzzled me, was "no need to be nasty about it" ???

Anyways I was going to let it go until he started the threats of physical abuse, when that started I wheeled my bike to the side of the road, leant it on the railings and countered each of his "I'll have you" or words to that effect with a "Go on then, if you are going to have a go, have a go" This "conversation" went on for about a min or two, then he reached into the car and pulled out a bike lock, the thick chain type.  My response to that was "Look, if you are going to have a go, just have a go, I can't wait here all day" Just at that point the lights changed the woman in the car was leaning on the horn and shouting and swearing at him to stop being so stupid and get back in the car.  This he did, I returned to my bike and pushed it up to the lights, intending to cross on foot, once I had made sure they had gone.  As they turned left he was still shouting and swearing at me, but instead of winding the window down he had opened the door to shout at me, which meant I couldn't hear what he was saying as all I could hear was hear shouting "Shut the effing door!"

The last 500m to the station were uneventful, but I got out of sight as soon as poss...

Then on the platform as I waited for the train two drugged up/drunk lads (one with a cast on his left leg, one with a FO huge rottweiler on a leash) started a fight with the East Coast guys, which lead to the BTP turning up just as i got on my train....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 18 January, 2011, 08:42:22 pm
It's that junction, I tell you!  It's where I got cut up by, and a massive load of verbal from, a random taxi driver.  I actually rang up and complained about that one, which I have NEVER done before!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 18 January, 2011, 08:49:21 pm
This little incident didn't happen at around 5pm this evening did it?
As I was turning at the lights to go down Nunnery Lane there sounded like there was a right barney going on at the lights opposite The Punchbowl.

I was too busy trying to keep my eye on the road ahead because of the rather, erm, skittish nature of the hire car but my colleague in the passenger seat said he saw a cyclist involved.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 18 January, 2011, 09:17:27 pm
Quote from: interzen on 18 January, 2011, 08:49:21 pm
This little incident didn't happen at around 5pm this evening did it?
As I was turning at the lights to go down Nunnery Lane there sounded like there was a right barney going on at the lights opposite The Punchbowl.

I was too busy trying to keep my eye on the road ahead because of the rather, erm, skittish nature of the hire car but my colleague in the passenger seat said he saw a cyclist involved.

Yes it did! i left work at 17:05 and was at the station for 17:15....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 19 January, 2011, 05:21:27 am
Just cycled home.  Frosty out there, this morning.  The parked cars look like so many iced buns.  Cycle to work yet to come; will add some linings to my gloves.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 19 January, 2011, 09:57:40 am
So cold this morning I had to wear an extra base layer

I stopped to help a lad on a cheap MTB.  There was something wrong with his front QR skewer.  I sorted it out pretty quick but this made my fingers quite cold

I had to stop and push over three patches of ice, including one place I'd not seen it before.  I guess if I do take off my ice tyres then this kind of thing will happen  ;D

Another fabulous sunrise though, much prefer this to the rain.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 19 January, 2011, 10:09:22 am
A bit sluggish on the way in this morning, but realised it was most likely down to carrying both my D-lock and heavy cable lock (I usually commute sans lock).  Otherwise, not a bad commute, except for the numpties pulling out from side roads and stopping in the bike lane rather than at their stop line.  Monday's numpty pulled into the bus lane - I guess bikes don't qualify traffic.  ::-)
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 19 January, 2011, 10:16:27 am
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 18 January, 2011, 08:42:22 pm
It's that junction, I tell you!  It's where I got cut up by, and a massive load of verbal from, a random taxi driver.  I actually rang up and complained about that one, which I have NEVER done before!

It's a stupid confusing junction from any direction. Coming the opposite direction was where I had my altercation with a bus driver.

Tier, can't quite believe how exciting a commute you had. Near fight with a car passenger, violent yobs with dog and police! I'm almost envious, (not).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 19 January, 2011, 11:34:17 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 19 January, 2011, 10:16:27 am
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 18 January, 2011, 08:42:22 pm
It's that junction, I tell you!  It's where I got cut up by, and a massive load of verbal from, a random taxi driver.  I actually rang up and complained about that one, which I have NEVER done before!

It's a stupid confusing junction from any direction. Coming the opposite direction was where I had my altercation with a bus driver.

Tier, can't quite believe how exciting a commute you had. Near fight with a car passenger, violent yobs with dog and police! I'm almost envious, (not).

I can do without commutes like that! :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 January, 2011, 11:49:42 am
Definition of crisp this morning.  I didn't need a jacket, but put on another thin jersey.  Lovely ride, and I was happy to be free of the worry of punctures or slipping gears.

Glad I didn't meet anyone like Tiermat's idiot.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 19 January, 2011, 12:07:14 pm
Quote from: clarion on 19 January, 2011, 11:49:42 am
Definition of crisp ... another thin jersey. 
(Other cultivars of potato are available).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 19 January, 2011, 12:26:15 pm
Just assessed the damage in daylight. Bars about 30 degree out, rear wheel badly misaligned, scratches.
Not quite sure how to get home...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 19 January, 2011, 12:31:49 pm
Quote from: boab on 19 January, 2011, 12:26:15 pm
Just assessed the damage in daylight. Bars about 30 degree out, rear wheel badly misaligned, scratches.
Not quite sure how to get home...

Owch, what happened, and more importantly are you all right?

re getting home, bars are easily straightened but that rear wheel sounds more difficult, I take it your children don't drive yet to collect you?

GWS
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 19 January, 2011, 12:34:09 pm
Hope you're alright!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 19 January, 2011, 12:40:01 pm
Early in my commute, some bloke on an olive single speed bike drifted lazily through the red light where I had stopped and vanished into the distance.  Several junctions later, he caught up with me at another set of lights, just as they went green.  I passed him as we entered a minor road that's a short cut through an estate and had forgotten about him by the time I approached the second corner and took it at speed...

Black ice on smooth road surface, rear wheel skids uncontrollably, thigh slams into road and I'm rolling, bike in air above me, stand up, am holding bike though have no memory of grabbing it, nod of relief to RLJer who has slowed to enquire about health, look over bike, remount and pedal.  Realise that something is poking me in the thigh where nothing has poked me before, look down and realise saddle was rotated 30 degrees by the impact, dismount and fettle.  As I do this, I see somebody else take the corner and also come off her bike - not as badly, since she wasn't moving as fast.  The cyclists behind her have the benefit of her example and, since she stayed at the corner while gathering herself and her possessions, so did the cyclists behind them.

When I made the turn from Prince of Wales Drive onto Battersea Park Road, another slow moving RLJer sailed slowly out from the opposite direction and, despite having had plenty of time to clock me, cut right in front of me as he crossed towards the park.  I was not polite.

Very mild grazing on right thigh, but I tore a small hole in the shorts.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 19 January, 2011, 12:46:06 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 19 January, 2011, 12:40:01 pm
some bloke on an olive single speed bike drifted lazily through the red light

alexb - have you been RLJing?!  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 January, 2011, 02:43:18 pm
Quote from: boab on 19 January, 2011, 12:26:15 pm
Just assessed the damage in daylight. Bars about 30 degree out, rear wheel badly misaligned, scratches.
Not quite sure how to get home...


Sounds like an Eeek!  Glad you're still with us...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 19 January, 2011, 02:43:31 pm
Quote from: boab on 19 January, 2011, 12:26:15 pm
Just assessed the damage in daylight. Bars about 30 degree out, rear wheel badly misaligned, scratches.
Not quite sure how to get home...


Yikes, what happened? Hope you're Ok xx
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 19 January, 2011, 07:12:32 pm
Came off on ice on the way in. I hadn't thought it was too bad, I was wrong.
There's been ice there before, so I saw it coming, tried to slow and slammed myself and bike all over the road.
Set off walking the last mile and got rescued by big boss who drove me and limping bike the rest of the way.
I've fallen off so often now that I can rank the bruising. Only a 4.0 today for the hip and knee. My head hurts tho and I really need a new helmet- that's 5 times it's hit the deck now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 January, 2011, 08:06:53 pm
Poor lass!  GWS :-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 20 January, 2011, 12:34:12 pm
Last night was definitely interesting.

It's not often I venture south of the river, and then usually not much more than a stone's throw from the Thames (excl. FNRttC).  Last night I met a number of AUKs in Wimbledon, so off across London Bridge, down the A3 to the A24 the off into Wimbledon.  Managed to miss a turn at Elephant & Castle, then ended up on the A23 when I wanted to continue along the A3. :facepalm:

Other than that, the journey out was uneventful, but crowded!  Even at 19:30 CS7 was busy.  Well, in comparison to any of my usual commuting routes.

If anyone thinks CS7 is a bit rubbish I will give you a guided tour of CS3.  This is an honest offer — I will organise a ride along CS3 with a probable return along CS2 (work in progress).  I won't say CS7 is perfect, but in some places it's brilliant!

Last night also confirmed an observation about South London Drivers: they drive way too fast and aggressively.  I lost count of the number of cars driving right up against CS7 but with 3-5ft of empty lane to their right.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 20 January, 2011, 02:38:21 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 20 January, 2011, 12:34:12 pm
Last night also confirmed an observation about South London Drivers: they drive way too fast and aggressively.  I lost count of the number of cars driving right up against CS7 but with 3-5ft of empty lane to their right.
 

I see just the same levels of aggression from North London drivers, I'm not sure there are any differences, beyond subtle changes in general driver habits.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 20 January, 2011, 05:07:22 pm
I think my Friday legs arrived early :(

boab, that sounds horrible, I hope you are ok.

My commute is half Sarf and half Norf of the river. Driver behaviour is about equal on either side IME.

I am most afraid of the kamikaze peds when I go through Covent Garden...my new brake blocks are a tad squeally and this is a Good Thing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 20 January, 2011, 05:13:03 pm
Quote from: little miss mac on 19 January, 2011, 12:46:06 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 19 January, 2011, 12:40:01 pm
some bloke on an olive single speed bike drifted lazily through the red light

alexb - have you been RLJing?!  ;)

Haven't been riding my fixed for ages now. I'll be selling it when the weather gets better. I've bought a dull, but very practical hub-geared MTB for commuting.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 20 January, 2011, 07:03:23 pm
Yesterday I was on my Peregrine and a guy pulled alongside and said "I've got a Gryphon" (another Singular made bike) we chatted about how they are ( and my Swift) before going on our way.

And that children is how the SW London chapter of the Singular Fan Club was founded:)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 20 January, 2011, 08:34:55 pm
Felt rough the last couple of days, really not enjoying myself. Had a sore throat that hasn't been shifting. Bothered to look in the mirror at it yesterday. "Ah" I think to myself, "that's what tonsilitis looks like, is it?". The LHS tonsil takes up half my throat, and looks more like a faulty rhubarb and custard than a tonsil.

Hopefully the 2000mg of pencillin a day I'll be on for the next week will clear it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 20 January, 2011, 08:39:55 pm
First commute of the week as Mrs Dan's had a poorly shoulder. Rather nice it was, cool, moonlit, brisk despite doing intervals in the morning. A little wiggle at the back going over a manhole on the marathon winters.
Sounds like the rest of you have been having a rough and/or stressful time of it - best wishes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 21 January, 2011, 08:33:51 am
Memo to self : When the back roads are icy for the lunchtime bimble it is not a good idea to attempt to use the back road for the trip home.  Dolt.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cyclone on 21 January, 2011, 09:29:38 am
Took out the good bike o ascertain whether I'd risk it on tomorrows lanes for Dr.Fosters jaunt....So much easier to ride than the winter tank but which will be better when the road is slick 23 gatorskins or 28 Marathons?.... :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 21 January, 2011, 09:36:16 am
I think that was the coldest one this year
The fog in Taunton didn't help
Nice skies when above the fog though

I'm sure my toes will defrost...eventually
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 January, 2011, 09:38:09 am
I had to advise someone not to overtake on a bend when there was oncoming traffic, and the back of a standing queue of traffic was clearly visible ahead.  He didn't think he'd overtaken me :facepalm:  Someone like that doesn't deserve to have a licence at all.  In fact, this being Mitcham, he probably didn't.

I think my level of annoyance was still showing as I overtook the line of traffic.  I saw a door part open ahead, so I was into full alert mode.  But the driver just dropped some litter, and closed the door.  I picked up the litter, not sure what I was going to do, since the window wasn't open.  But he opened it, and I passed the thing to him, saying, 'I think this is yours'.  He thanked me, then closed the window.  He may have thrown it back on the road when I was out of sight, but I can't know.  I'm just pleased that I had got him to take it back.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 21 January, 2011, 10:02:05 am
Short sleeve top today.  Shame I don't smoke, or I'd have tucked a pack of 20 into one rolled-up sleeve, just to show all these soft southerners.

I'm told I'm hard to buy presents for.  Friends and family complain about it.  This Christmas, one particular person's gift to me was delayed by the weather.  And delayed again - some people's distribution/paperwork systems seem to have taken a while to recover.  It finally arrived today and was promptly opened.  "Oh, wow!" I think to myself, "I'll use those right away".  Quick bit of fettling and I'm off, after which the distractions of the daily commute make me forget about them.  Near the end of the trip, a motorcyclist draws level to me and tries to engage my attention.  I assume he wants to talk about the asshole coming the other way who, having pulled into our lane to overtake a truck, didn't feel in a hurry to return to his own lane and had brushed past us both.  He gesticulates vigorously, poninting downwards.  "Oh, no," I think, "what's gone wrong with the bike?"  "Nice shoes, mate!" he says, "Where did they come from?"  "Um, Dromarti."  "Really nice.  Class." he replies and speeds off.

See?  I'm not hard to buy for.  O:-)























They are very nice.  Thank you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 21 January, 2011, 10:06:04 am
Yeah? I bet you said 'Dromarti' in a high-pitched quavering northern-girly voice.

Absolutely nothing happened on my 2 minute commute today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 21 January, 2011, 10:58:26 am
Quote from: Riggers on 21 January, 2011, 10:06:04 am
Yeah? I bet you said 'Dromarti' in a high-pitched quavering northern-girly voice.

Absolutely nothing happened on my 2 minute commute today.

Soft Scots brogue, as it happens :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 21 January, 2011, 11:15:43 am
Magnatom squeek special, you mean!   :P

Last night's commute was awesome, just pleasure all the way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 January, 2011, 11:16:34 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 21 January, 2011, 10:58:26 am
Quote from: Riggers on 21 January, 2011, 10:06:04 am
Yeah? I bet you said 'Dromarti' in a high-pitched quavering northern-girly voice.

Absolutely nothing happened on my 2 minute commute today.

Soft Scots brogue, as it happens :)


Are you sure that soft brogues are best for cycling? ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ScumOfTheRoad on 21 January, 2011, 12:16:13 pm
Quote from: clarion on 21 January, 2011, 11:16:34 am

Are you sure that soft brogues are best for cycling? ;)

Definitely good for the Tweed Run though.
I definitely do see Bruce in a deerstalker and cape, gracefully gliding along darkened Edwardian streets on a Pedersen.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 21 January, 2011, 02:09:25 pm
Quote from: ScumOfTheRoad on 21 January, 2011, 12:16:13 pm
Quote from: clarion on 21 January, 2011, 11:16:34 am

Are you sure that soft brogues are best for cycling? ;)

Definitely good for the Tweed Run though.
I definitely do see Bruce in a deerstalker and cape, gracefully gliding along darkened Edwardian streets on a Pedersen.

Aye, but you've been told about your Laudanum habit, John.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 21 January, 2011, 11:16:14 pm
Took the trike for the first time today - and surprisingly I was only slightly down on my normal average speed. Had to work harder for it though.

Was much fun. Only downside from a commuter point of view - it is not suitable for zipping down on the outside of a line of traffic - or I don't have the confidence for it yet.

First of many I suspect.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hackbike six on 24 January, 2011, 11:41:54 am
Commute 11 (Last Wednesday) Manhole cover missing just past Mile End (going towards aldgate),early in the morning....couldn't find a cop car for love nor money...or anything else for that matter...

Commute 15 (yesterday) My first SMIDSY at the Mile End junction just past the tube station going towards Aldgate...

Even with my Hi-Viz and lights people are either in too much of a hurry or don't bother looking properly.Still it's a rarity which probably makes it more dodgy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 24 January, 2011, 09:55:06 pm
Glad it was a bit mild and damp today, I forgot my gloves.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 25 January, 2011, 07:32:38 am
Quote from: hackbike six on 24 January, 2011, 11:41:54 am
Commute 11 (Last Wednesday) Manhole cover missing just past Mile End (going towards aldgate),early in the morning....couldn't find a cop car for love nor money...or anything else for that matter...

I was going to suggest Bow Road Police Station, but it doesn't open until 08:00.  :(

I've been in the UK for quite a few years now but still can't get used to the concept of a cop shop with opening hours.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pippa on 25 January, 2011, 07:37:41 am
Ooof. That hurt. I don't think I'm over my lurgy quite yet  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 25 January, 2011, 09:38:24 am
Had a run of green lights all the way from Battersea Bridge up to Kensington Road.  Must be a conjunction of the planets.  Of course, there are some cyclists for whom this would make no difference but I leave them in my dust :P  One cyclist of whom that could not be said was the largish girl in the pink waterproof jacket, racing to catch the green light at the Kings Road junction.  If you are reading, please accept my assurances that my shout of "You go, girl!" was entirely unironic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 January, 2011, 09:49:57 am
Rather faster without the headwind, but only just back up to normal speeds.  And everyone else was faster today, too.  We swept in a large peleton of about twenty through Stockwell and on to Elephant & Castle.  Very very impressive for January.  Can't wait to see what's happening in summer. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 25 January, 2011, 10:22:23 am
The Stockwell cyclsts did look fast today (I normally watch scores of them swoosh by as Cam potters around the dog park on the edge of my estate). I do keep an eye out for Clarion but none of them were you today.

Having enjoyed an eejit-free year so far, it came to an end today; some twit aggressively tooting me as we set off from the lights at Lambeth Bridge roundabout. I turned round and made a 'what?' gesture and he shut up. Another cyclist commiserated 'what an a**ehole' and I concurred. The poor soul's frustration was understandable - I must have been delaying him terribly, as I went past him at every single set of lights until I turned off into the cycle-only bit at the end of Waterloo bridge.

To balance out the eejit, though, a nice van driver stopped and left space for all the cyclists to go around some road works in the bus lane. As I went past him I smiled and said thanks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 25 January, 2011, 11:28:15 am
*sigh* Looks like the bottom bracket is on its way home.  *Grumble*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 25 January, 2011, 11:42:07 am
Quote from: hackbike six on 24 January, 2011, 11:41:54 am
Commute 11 (Last Wednesday) Manhole cover missing just past Mile End (going towards aldgate),early in the morning....couldn't find a cop car for love nor money...or anything else for that matter...

Commute 15 (yesterday) My first SMIDSY at the Mile End junction just past the tube station going towards Aldgate...

Even with my Hi-Viz and lights people are either in too much of a hurry or don't bother looking properly.Still it's a rarity which probably makes it more dodgy.

Last week I was getting increasingly grumbly about the way the workmen had left the drain covers along Stratford High Street. "How much trouble would it have been for them to throw down some road filler" I intoned to myself, in high dugeon (they were bad, weren't they?) On the way home each day I said to myself "I'm going into the site office to complain." Of course I didn't but the thought waves seem to have done the job by Thursday :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 25 January, 2011, 08:01:02 pm
Took my long-fingered gloves off today during my commute, both directions: hands too warm. Also too warm for longs: the legs may come out tomorrow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 25 January, 2011, 10:32:14 pm
Mr National Express coach driver. If I am riding up the A10 through Harston at 30kph and you start tailgating me, what did you expect?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 26 January, 2011, 09:35:32 am
It's gone from clear to murky this morning
Visibility was poor, it was windy too
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 26 January, 2011, 09:39:07 am
Quote from: simonp on 25 January, 2011, 10:32:14 pm
Mr National Express coach driver. If I am riding up the A10 through Harston at 30kph and you start tailgating me, what did you expect?

That's a horrible piece of road. I can appreciate why you took us all over the place to avoid it at the end of the Hauxton 200. I didn't do the detour, thinking I knew better and took the A10 and was so very close to being squished by a Twat-in-a-TT.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 January, 2011, 10:24:16 am
We set off this morning together - Butterfly with plenty of time.  I had a minor mechanical, but decided to continue.  Then Butterfly's brake cable snapped.  :(

We turned back, and changed bikes.  I grabbed my tourer, which is still wearing the wide knobbly cross tyres I was using for snow, but which have poor p*nct*re protection :(  Butterfly switched to a folder.  Not ideal for the distance, but at least both brakes work :-\

So we then rode in together.  Both a wee bit late, but we still got to ride and have fun.

Huzzah for the fleet! :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 26 January, 2011, 10:35:33 am
This morning, I saw a woman just ahead of me nearly run over by an Ocado van in the exact spot where an Ocado van knocked me off my bike, last year.  The problem is two slightly offset and opposing t-juctions on Bayswater road; traffic from Kensington Palace Gardens enters from the South and mostly turns East (right).  To the right/East of that entrance is Ossington Street, a one way road from which traffic enters from the north and mostly turns right/West, so that these two streams of traffic cross.  Palace Gardens is gated, so most of the traffic entering from there is cyclists; vans entering from Ossington Street just don't seem to see us.

This girl was more nervous about crossing than I am, which is what saved her although it did leave her wobbling along the wrong side of the road.  I learned how dangerous that crossing is the very hard way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 26 January, 2011, 01:31:03 pm
Cold, wet and a sever dose of ICBA.

Went to the post office and sent off a bike frame to another forumite then got the 09:27 to York.

Sat at work pining for the fjords :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 26 January, 2011, 02:45:10 pm
Quote from: Chris S on 26 January, 2011, 09:39:07 am
Quote from: simonp on 25 January, 2011, 10:32:14 pm
Mr National Express coach driver. If I am riding up the A10 through Harston at 30kph and you start tailgating me, what did you expect?

That's a horrible piece of road. I can appreciate why you took us all over the place to avoid it at the end of the Hauxton 200. I didn't do the detour, thinking I knew better and took the A10 and was so very close to being squished by a Twat-in-a-TT.

Yup.  I couldn't be arsed at the time to head down to Newton, either.  I was trying to not make the ride home excessively long.  It was tricky to come up with a route for the 200k that avoided the A10 without being too much over distance, and impossible to force avoiding it via an info.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 26 January, 2011, 09:23:48 pm
Overtaken 3 times by an unlit RLJing BSO.  On the third time, it was about to be an Undertake, as I was stationary behind the car waiting at the lights at which I was wanting to turn left.  So I stuck out my left arm, and Mr Muppet then decided to go around both me and the waiting car.

So I let off steam by shouting "It's RED".  Unlike his tail-light, about which he'd been berated by another rider at the previous set of traffic lights.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 January, 2011, 10:57:15 pm
I got a sodding puncture >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 27 January, 2011, 09:14:56 am
Quote from: clarion on 26 January, 2011, 10:57:15 pm
I got a sodding p*nct*r* >:(

And me >:(

Needed to be home early yesterday so started early. Got out of the nick in plentyu of time and got going pretty toot sweet. Hlaf way home I started to hear a regular psst psst psst from the back wheel. First visitation on G G G G Granville since I had him- 2 year! Why does this happen when deadlines need to be met?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 27 January, 2011, 09:15:51 am
Bloody hell, that was cold!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 January, 2011, 09:41:07 am
Gusty headwind :(

And still on knobblies, so I felt really slow.

Turns out it was still a decent speed, so I'm happy enough.

And hoping for a tailwind home ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 27 January, 2011, 09:48:21 am
windy, not so cold but a little wet (drizzle not real rain)

Had an idiot on Nunnery Lane waving her arms about because I was out in primary as I approached roadworks on the other side of the road (I tucked in a bit yesterday as I passed them and nearly got thrown onto the pavement by a moton who thought it was ok to not slow down or actually give me any room), so they had to stop, shame that isn't it? Especially as approaching the roadworks from the other side there is a sign showing that the traffic approaching you (i.e. this morning, ME) has right of way.

the world's Karma was restored slightly further on though when WVM actually stopped and let me pass before pulling out into the lane.  He got a cheery "Thanks mate!" for that one...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 27 January, 2011, 09:51:31 am
Quote from: Basil on 27 January, 2011, 09:15:51 am
Bloody hell, that was cold!

+1
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 27 January, 2011, 10:29:52 am
The junction of Cromwell Road and Gloucester Road is one where only cyclists can cross North-South.  There are two narrow gaps in the central barrier of Cromwell Road to allow cyclists each way and you'll often see an RLJer stuck there.  This morning, there were two; the second, having trundled slowly North through a gap in the traffic, found the leftmost (northbound) gap blocked by the first RLJer, so he decided to block the southbound one.  Just to remove any doubt that he was a complete prick, the whole manoeuvre was performed with his mobile phone clamped to his left ear.  He did manage to wobble across the second half of the road a while before the lights changed in his/our favour, but was moving so slowly that he was passed only a short way down Gloucester Road by an angry man on a yellow bike who yelled "You are a fucking wanker, what are you?" very loudly into his ear as he sped past.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 27 January, 2011, 10:41:10 am
Absolute carnage in Abingdon this morning due to accidents everywhere apparently, mind you given the fact some numpty was attempting to reverse round a major roundabout, not surprising really. Still I enjoyed threading the eye of the needle up the middle of two standing lanes of traffic on Marcham Road
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 27 January, 2011, 12:07:02 pm
boy there was a head wind last night, my journey home is normally significantly faster than the ride in not 5 minutes slower.

And yes this morning was a bit nippy, I regretted not putting my overshoes on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 27 January, 2011, 12:18:57 pm
Gale of a headwind with occasional light flurries of white stuff over the Peaks on the way home last evening.

Cold this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 27 January, 2011, 02:11:52 pm
Quote from: Basil on 27 January, 2011, 09:15:51 am
Bloody hell, that was cold!

Aye, positively Arctic.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hackbike six on 27 January, 2011, 02:59:49 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 27 January, 2011, 10:29:52 am
The junction of Cromwell Road and Gloucester Road is one where only cyclists can cross North-South.  There are two narrow gaps in the central barrier of Cromwell Road to allow cyclists each way and you'll often see an RLJer stuck there.  This morning, there were two; the second, having trundled slowly North through a gap in the traffic, found the leftmost (northbound) gap blocked by the first RLJer, so he decided to block the southbound one.  Just to remove any doubt that he was a complete prick, the whole manoeuvre was performed with his mobile phone clamped to his left ear.  He did manage to wobble across the second half of the road a while before the lights changed in his/our favour, but was moving so slowly that he was passed only a short way down Gloucester Road by an angry man on a yellow bike who yelled "You are a fucking wanker, what are you?" very loudly into his ear as he sped past.





Lots of muppets around this morning...I have found the cyclists the worst recently and absolutely no trouble from the motons...I left earlier to avoid all the mugs but there were still plenty out there.I have a 448 start on Monday so there will be very few cyclists around thank god.Plenty of RLJers about Saw a Boris bike blatantly jump a red light at Stamford Street and put himself in danger weaving between two cars coming from the other way was shocking.Also had a cyclist push in front of me which was totally pointless and did annoy me a bit.Making me think my analysis that some human beings are desperate to get from A-B in the fastest possible time breaking every damn rule in the book and being total idiots to boot still stands apart from sod everyone else.

What the hell is the point of red on the front and blue on the back?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 27 January, 2011, 03:32:06 pm
Quote from: hackbike six on 27 January, 2011, 02:59:49 pm
Making me think my analysis that some human beings are desperate to get from A-B in the fastest possible time breaking every damn rule in the book and being total idiots to boot still stands apart from sod everyone else.

The problem with that idea is that most RLJers ride at a snail pace.  What do they gain from the jumping?  Red lights lengthen my journey much more than theirs, proportionately.

Quote
What the hell is the point of red on the front and blue on the back?

Both his lights were actually white; what you experienced was the Doppler shift.  As you approached the dozy RLJer from behind, the difference in your velocities was so great that his rear light appeared blue; once you had passed, his front light was receding so quickly that it shifted to red.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 27 January, 2011, 05:33:16 pm
There is some kind of unholy alliance of roadworks making my commute (Richmond to Chelsea: Sheen / Barnes / Putney / New Kings Road) quite hellish this week. It's about 75% solid traffic jam.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 27 January, 2011, 06:31:45 pm
Quote from: clarion on 27 January, 2011, 09:41:07 am
Gusty headwind :(


And hoping for a tailwind home ;)

Headwind both ways. The sure sign of lack of fitness.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hackbike six on 27 January, 2011, 06:35:11 pm
Quote from: Grub on 19 November, 2009, 06:28:15 pm
a man in a foreign registered small white car-derived van pulled alongside me and wound down his window.  My 'spidey sense' was not tingling so I listened when he said "Your rear light is the most effective I have ever seen.  Well done".
The power of Dinotte.  ;D

Cheeky bugger no one has commented on my magicshine rear light. ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 27 January, 2011, 06:54:43 pm
I wasn't making much progress at work and snow was forecast, so I left early and treated myself to my first daylight commute home of the year. Nasty headwind on the hill. I got a little bit more done once I got back.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 28 January, 2011, 08:04:58 am
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 27 January, 2011, 05:33:16 pm
There is some kind of unholy alliance of roadworks making my commute (Richmond to Chelsea: Sheen / Barnes / Putney / New Kings Road) quite hellish this week. It's about 75% solid traffic jam.
Mine too. I have been passing through 2 sets of contraflow lights and through the queues for at least 2 more ::-). Mind you there are a lot more 'summer'* cyclists than I would expect in January, so it seems to have some positive effect 8).

*rusty chain, flat tyres, squealing brakes... :-\.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 28 January, 2011, 09:14:36 am
The traffic disruption on routes that touch Kengsington and Chelsea (the most NW corner of which is the end of my commuite) is caused by extensive roadworks to repair the Winter's damage.  Lambeth, the borough in which my commute begins, has no such programme and bloody well should.

Above-the-knee shorts, today.  Wakes you up on a day like this.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 28 January, 2011, 09:28:55 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 28 January, 2011, 09:14:36 am

Above-the-knee shorts, today.  Wakes you up on a day like this.


ARE YOU MAD?

My morning began at 6am with sorting out various baking stuff from the night before.  The cooled flapjacks go in a tin, the bread out of the machine.  Then a swift porridge and it's off to the mother in laws to walk the dogs.  She has had an op and so cannot walk the dogs.  Or ride her bike.  She is going to get twitchy after a few days.

Then I cut across the lanes past Spicelands to go to work.  As everyone else has noted there is a brisk wind which is a headwind in tailwind home kind of deal for me.  The wind seems to make it feel like it is freezing though, I kept a look out for ice the whole way but only saw one tiny pathetic patch.  To be fair it is also very dry.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 28 January, 2011, 09:50:50 am
Mostly a nice trip, slightly spoiled by a Streamline taxi driver and having to walk around a major accident in Leeds. Judging by the fuss made, I think it was a fatality :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 28 January, 2011, 09:55:28 am
I commuted in on the folder.  Into a headwind.

I still think that 10 miles on a folder is far enough.

My commute is 11.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 28 January, 2011, 11:57:57 am
Averaging 5.5hrs sleep a night this year, and am just about recovering from a lovely bout of tonsillitis. Generally, not enjoying being on the bike. Last night I got 4.5 hours sleep, and it was -2 when I set off this morning. I didn't enjoy it. I want some sun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 28 January, 2011, 08:40:04 pm
Friday commute, with added darkness fun.  I knew it was a bit nippy when I went to the bike shed and found the Very Lovely Valencia sparkling away with her glittering coat of frost.... cold toes now!  Bloody lovely commute though.  Late enough that the laney bit was quiet and the few cars around passed wide and steady,  heavy frost on the hedges and fields twinkling diamond-like in the completely still air, completely clear sky studded with incredibly bright stars.  Somewhere approaching 20 miles ands I only put a foot down twice - once to stop and rummage in the pannier for the gloves, and once at the junction where I join the A19 and there was a car coming, but only for long enough for that one car to pass.  And I didn't get overtaken by the bike behind me on my way up the hill on campus - slightly odd to have someone on my wheel, not a familiar experience.  Hooray for the friday commute \o/
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 28 January, 2011, 09:56:51 pm
Had to swing by Waterloo on the way home and went on via Bayliss Road and Kennington Road.  I do wish my regular commute were more like that; long stretches of road and some genuinely fast people to race against.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Androcles on 28 January, 2011, 10:17:28 pm
First commute of the year, quite nippy on the way in.  Half day on Friday so back out on the road just after 1pm and the return was hard work.  Still round about freezing and a deceptive headwind all the way.  Also nearly got wiped out by an idiot in a BMW who made an illegal U turn in front of me in Derby while I was crossing the ring road on a green filter.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 28 January, 2011, 10:19:20 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 28 January, 2011, 09:56:51 pm
Had to swing by Waterloo on the way home and went on via Bayliss Road and Kennington Road.  I do wish my regular commute were more like that; long stretches of road and some genuinely fast people to race against.

Hang about. Yellow Giant? a little after 6?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 28 January, 2011, 10:24:54 pm
I was just pootling along on one of Lewisham's lovely cycle paths - and was signalling to another cyclist to overtake me. He instead said 'Ah I can't be bothered, its Friday after all'  ;D. We got chatting for  a bit and it turns out his commute is from Tower Bridge to Bromley, very respectable. He said that he had been commuting by bike for 4 years and had lost 4 stone in weight  :thumbsup: Big it up to him!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 28 January, 2011, 10:27:20 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 28 January, 2011, 10:24:54 pm
He said that he had been commuting by bike for 4 years and had lost 4 stone in weight


On that sort of basis I should completely disappear some time this summer
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 28 January, 2011, 10:28:41 pm
Quote from: Adrian on 28 January, 2011, 10:19:20 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 28 January, 2011, 09:56:51 pm
Had to swing by Waterloo on the way home and went on via Bayliss Road and Kennington Road.  I do wish my regular commute were more like that; long stretches of road and some genuinely fast people to race against.

Hang about. Yellow Giant? a little after 6?

No, it was 7:15 when I arrived on the Cut and another 10 minutes before I headed south.  Yellow Madison.  I did have fun racing some guy in  expensive lycra on a very expensive carbon road bike.  Don't know how I'd have lasted over a longer stretch but it was fun matching him on my cheap steel fixed track frame ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 29 January, 2011, 09:59:21 am
Had to work a double shift on Thursday so cycled home on Friday morning. I replicated audax riding by falling asleep mentally whilst riding. I rode a 2 mile stretch all alone in the dark whilst thinking about nothing and then found I couldn't recall that stretch or the climbs, at all!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 30 January, 2011, 04:00:57 am
"Pull over you prick." + mouthful of phlegm.

"Get out of the middle of the fucking lane you cunt."

"I'm goin' ta run ya over ya silly cunt."

I can't help thinking you get a better class of driver on the weekday commute.

Although the ride through Dulwich in the morning was lovely and relaxed as all the traffic was being forced to flow at a sensible pace by a driver not only driving reasonably, but even legally. The back of his Ford Galaxy was emblazoned with the words "Addison Lee".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 30 January, 2011, 10:53:24 am
Quote from: benborp on 30 January, 2011, 04:00:57 am
Although the ride through Dulwich in the morning was lovely and relaxed as all the traffic was being forced to flow at a sensible pace by a driver not only driving reasonably, but even legally. The back of his Ford Galaxy was emblazoned with the words "Addison Lee".

Seeing as you posted the above, rather unbelievable, words at 04:00, you must have been pissed and imagining it.  Either that, or the vehicle was being driven by a thief.  If the latter, I hope you notified the police.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 31 January, 2011, 09:17:16 am
Doored!  I was bloody doored!  One way street, parked cars all down both sides, only room for the one lane of traffic which is completely stationary.  I'm threading my way through when some daft person in the back of a minicab decides she has been immobile long enough and opens her door straight into my shoulder.  I go flying into the bonnet of a parked car, completely demolishing its wing mirror with my other shoulder.  She was mortified, after the event.  I could have been mortified during the event.  If that had been even a slow-moving lane of traffic, not parked cars, I probably would be dead.

Well, that's my first ever dooring.  Be lucky if it's my last.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 31 January, 2011, 09:21:08 am
Blimey.  How's the bike?  And your shoulder/other parts?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 31 January, 2011, 09:37:39 am
Quote from: Lindagordinho on 31 January, 2011, 09:21:08 am
Blimey.  How's the bike?  And your shoulder/other parts?

I have two lightly bruised shoulders.  The bike wasn't touched.

She was French and on her way to a train station; I suspect she wasn't used to the ways of London traffic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 31 January, 2011, 09:40:57 am
Well, I'm pleased it wasn't worse Bruce.  Not a great start to the day though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 31 January, 2011, 10:21:46 am
Glad you're still with us.  I am terrified by the way in which people open their doors into traffic of all kinds.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ScumOfTheRoad on 31 January, 2011, 11:38:03 am
Bruce, virtual tea an sympathy heading from this way.

I suggest an application of hot, sweet tea and whatever your favourite biccies are.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gaz on 31 January, 2011, 01:02:40 pm
Quote from: clarion on 31 January, 2011, 10:21:46 am
Glad you're still with us.  I am terrified by the way in which people open their doors into traffic of all kinds.

Not 100% sure if it was you i saw today, carradice bag with a fibre flare along the top? going up CS7?
In which case did you see me? ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smurphboy on 31 January, 2011, 01:53:06 pm
Bad things come in threes...

Monday before last - pun*tu*e
Last Monday - two spokes break
This Monday - fall off after failing to brake behind a car that stopped suddenly in traffic.

My usual escape route was blocked by a large yellow skip. So I slithered (it was slippy) upto the back of the car - shed most of the speed and put out my hand to stop myself on the back of the car. Said car drove off at this point, so I have a velocity of zero, all my weight over the front wheel and physics won. Man down!
Minor road rash on the left knee and a hole in my left pannier (soon fixed with Gaffer Tape) and dented pride. Luckily, there were two people to watch. One (driver going the other way) stopped and asked if I was ok and said 5.8 for technical but only 2.0 for artistic impression. Some smart alec girl behind (on a shopping bike) suggested that I couldn't stop as fast as the cars in front. I pointed out that I'd just learnt that...I feel bad about that, she was only trying to help.

The bike was fine.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 31 January, 2011, 01:59:56 pm
Quote from: smurphboy on 31 January, 2011, 01:53:06 pm
Bad things come in threes...

Monday before last - pun*tu*e
Last Monday - two spokes break
This Monday - fall off after failing to brake behind a car that stopped suddenly in traffic.

My usual escape route was blocked by a large yellow skip. So I slithered (it was slippy) upto the back of the car - shed most of the speed and put out my hand to stop myself on the back of the car. Said car drove off at this point, so I have a velocity of zero, all my weight over the front wheel and physics won. Man down!
Minor road rash on the left knee and a hole in my left pannier (soon fixed with Gaffer Tape) and dented pride. Luckily, there were two people to watch. One (driver going the other way) stopped and asked if I was ok and said 5.8 for technical but only 2.0 for artistic impression. Some smart alec girl behind (on a shopping bike) suggested that I couldn't stop as fast as the cars in front. I pointed out that I'd just learnt that...I feel bad about that, she was only trying to help.

The bike was fine.

Oh, no, how embarrassing.  Don't feel bad about snapping at that girl, adrenaline does that, so it seems.  Sorry about your knee and your pannier!

I should take next Monday off if I were you ...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smurphboy on 31 January, 2011, 02:24:04 pm
Quote from: Lindagordinho on 31 January, 2011, 01:59:56 pm
I should take next Monday off if I were you ...

I'm all for tempting fate...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 31 January, 2011, 02:26:51 pm
Quote from: Gaz on 31 January, 2011, 01:02:40 pm
Quote from: clarion on 31 January, 2011, 10:21:46 am
Glad you're still with us.  I am terrified by the way in which people open their doors into traffic of all kinds.

Not 100% sure if it was you i saw today, carradice bag with a fibre flare along the top? going up CS7?
In which case did you see me? ;)

Almost certainly me.

And I'm afraid I didn't see you, but you probably shot past in a blur. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 31 January, 2011, 02:37:43 pm
Yikes itsbruce that sounds nasty.

Out of interest, will the taxi or the woman have to pay for the damage to the parked car? Personally I would probably have blamed the taxi driver since he is the one with the mirrors who should have seen you coming and told her to wait.

The one place I'm never usually looking for doors to open is in cars actually in the traffic and not parked :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ScumOfTheRoad on 31 January, 2011, 03:16:15 pm
I believe Feline is correct - driver is in charge of the vehicle, and is responsible when passengers open doors etc.
I may be wrong.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 31 January, 2011, 03:33:19 pm
The taxi driver is responsible for the actions of his fare in circumstances such as this. He should have warned her that it was unsafe to exit the vehicle at that specific time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 31 January, 2011, 06:33:44 pm
Ghosted by a large Barn Owl this morning out near Bottlesford / Patney. 
Coming home I was crossed by a deer.
Beautiful ride today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 31 January, 2011, 06:41:21 pm
Quote from: SlowCoach on 31 January, 2011, 03:33:19 pm
The taxi driver is responsible for the actions of his fare in circumstances such as this. He should have warned her that it was unsafe to exit the vehicle at that specific time.

But unless he has control of the door locks - if she just dived out without warning, not much he could have done about it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 31 January, 2011, 06:45:35 pm
Quote from: Grub on 31 January, 2011, 06:33:44 pm
Ghosted by a large Barn Owl this morning out near Bottlesford / Patney. 
Coming home I was crossed by a deer.
Beautiful ride today.

Well?
Tell us.
What do you get if you cross a Grub with a deer?

Anyone notice the waffer theen moon crescent this morning?
I did. :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 31 January, 2011, 06:53:24 pm
Quote from: teethgrinder on 31 January, 2011, 06:45:35 pm
Quote from: Grub on 31 January, 2011, 06:33:44 pm
Ghosted by a large Barn Owl this morning out near Bottlesford / Patney. 
Coming home I was crossed by a deer.
Beautiful ride today.

Well?
Tell us.
What do you get if you cross a Grub with a deer?

Anyone notice the waffer theen moon crescent this morning?
I did. :smug:

No I was too busy waiting to be bashed by a badger  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 31 January, 2011, 08:32:30 pm
Quote from: teethgrinder on 31 January, 2011, 06:45:35 pm
Anyone notice the waffer theen moon crescent this morning?
I did. :smug:

Yes, it was a very pretty dawn (I rode down to Hampshire from Bangor overnight, arriving just after sun up).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 31 January, 2011, 08:49:55 pm
On the way home, while riding along a dead-end-except-for-cyclists road (away from the dead end), which has houses on the left and playing fields on the right, an estate car reversed out of the drive of one of the houses.  I shouted "Mind", and slammed on the brakes.  I was dressed in yellow, with a laser cannon (Cateye Doubleshot) on the front, and riding a tandem.  I was already riding in extra-primary as there was nothing coming the other way, and no turnings or entrances on the right.

I then waved the car to drive on.  It didn't.  There was no way I was going to approach the car of someone who was that poor at observation.  The car didn't move. I laid the tandem down and walked away.  Still the car went nowhere.  Eventually I went back to the bike, and rode back the way I'd come.  This would have meant a 20-minute detour, so I went out of sight onto the bikes-n-peds-only path, turned round again, then made my way back (with lights off, on the path bit).  The car by then had driven off towards the open end of the dead end road.  "Aha they've gone" I thought, so I retraced my steps.  The car reached the junction, saw my headlight (back on again now), did a 3-point turn, and came back at me.  "Oh great, here comes a confrontation".  She stopped next to me, and asked if I was alright.  I kind of wanted to explain why I wanted as much distance as possible between her car and me.  But we didn't exchange many words, she saying she'd come out a bit fast and was a bit shaken - "And in reverse" I added.

I may be wrong, but a few hundred yards later I think it was she who overtook me on the approach to a give-way sign.  Grr.

I should have just walked past the errant car by using the pavement on the playing-field side of the road.

Why can't people reverse into their own drives?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 31 January, 2011, 10:13:53 pm
A failure in laundry scheduling saw me riding in thin gloves, cotton not warm cap, no buff, fleece not windproof. A bit chilly for comfort on the Lewes road. Sweaty up Elm Grove.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 February, 2011, 09:30:59 am
Good grief!  There were a lot of berks on the road today!  And a lot of them were on bikes, too :(

Big jams and lots of blue lights from Clapham through Stuckwell Gyratory on beyond Kennington Evil.  But no sign of what the problem was.  Fuckwits turning blind through lines of traffic into a bus lane/cycle superhighway.  At one point, I had to avoid one truck steaming through from my right and a moron emerging without pause into the bus lane (no room to get into the general one ::-) ) from the left.  Just all over.  Gits.

But the cyclists :(

*sigh*

The last couple of winters, the standard of cycling has gone up because it's the more experienced who stay on the road.  This year, despite the weather, a lot of 'summer cyclists' have kept it up, and I'm really pleased about that.

But there is so much RLJing right now.  It's not unusual for me to be the only rider out of about ten to stop at a red light.  And there are others (the same ones?) who hop up onto the pavement to get past queueing traffic at a junction, riding through pedestrians, then jumping back into the road without looking, causing law-abiding cyclists to have to brake or swerve.  And it's every man for himself.  There are a couple of places on my commute where we have to file out to get through a gap.  Not a problem: Faster riders and myself have to slow a bit for a few seconds while we all merge in.  But now, we have people charging through gaps, cutting up other cyclists, causing them to have to stop in dangerous positions.  I'm all right Jack >:(

I don't expect decent driving from motorists, but we should be able to expect it from our peers. 

Quote
It's not the despair, Laura. I can take the despair. It's the hope I can't stand.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Bairn Again on 01 February, 2011, 09:33:40 am
Narrowly avoided being mowed down by a speeding taxi on ride to work this morning.  

I aborted a right turn as it wasnt clear that he'd seen me and he was very close / fast.  Got his registration number though as he was dropping off not far from where it happened.  

What would be most effective now?

- Police [Id definitely do this is somebody else had seen it, sadly not though.]?

- Taxi company [it'll be one of about 3, it had a "V---" taxi number so I could track the firm down]?

- Taxi licensing office at the council?

being cycling to work in Edinmburgh for yonks and the taxi drivers are normally very good IMHO.  Makes this tw@t even more annoying.    
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 01 February, 2011, 10:03:49 am
Quote from: clarion on 01 February, 2011, 09:30:59 am
Good grief!  There were a lot of berks on the road today!  And a lot of them were on bikes, too :(

Big jams and lots of blue lights from Clapham through Stuckwell Gyratory on beyond Kennington Evil.  But no sign of what the problem was.  Fuckwits turning blind through lines of traffic into a bus lane/cycle superhighway.  At one point, I had to avoid one truck steaming through from my right and a moron emerging without pause into the bus lane (no room to get into the general one ::-) ) from the left.  Just all over.  Gits.

But the cyclists :(

*sigh*

The last couple of winters, the standard of cycling has gone up because it's the more experienced who stay on the road.  This year, despite the weather, a lot of 'summer cyclists' have kept it up, and I'm really pleased about that.

But there is so much RLJing right now.  It's not unusual for me to be the only rider out of about ten to stop at a red light.  And there are others (the same ones?) who hop up onto the pavement to get past queueing traffic at a junction, riding through pedestrians, then jumping back into the road without looking, causing law-abiding cyclists to have to brake or swerve.  And it's every man for himself.  There are a couple of places on my commute where we have to file out to get through a gap.  Not a problem: Faster riders and myself have to slow a bit for a few seconds while we all merge in.  But now, we have people charging through gaps, cutting up other cyclists, causing them to have to stop in dangerous positions.  I'm all right Jack >:(

I don't expect decent driving from motorists, but we should be able to expect it from our peers. 

Quote
It's not the despair, Laura. I can take the despair. It's the hope I can't stand.


Apparently there was some kind of accident between Brixton and Stockwell, but am not sure whether that would have affected your route into town Clarion  ???

I get a lot of RLJ'ers on my commute. A vast majority of them are on Boris Bikes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 01 February, 2011, 10:14:43 am
I saw all the traffic while walking the dog (I don't go that way on the bike). It was pretty bad.

Unfortunately my colleague has just reported seeing a mangled tourer and a parked-up lorry on her cycle to work, on the Brixton Road before the Oval. No sign of the cyclist but lots of debris. I'm hoping it is not as bad as it sounds.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 February, 2011, 10:28:38 am
Fingers crossed.

Yes, an incident between Brixton & Stockwell would probably seize up all the junctions round there. They run at high percentages of capacity.  Doesn't take much to turn a crawling mass into a standing one full of frustrated fuckwits.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 01 February, 2011, 11:22:36 am
Quote from: clarion on 01 February, 2011, 09:30:59 am
Good grief!  There were a lot of berks on the road today!  And a lot of them were on bikes, too :(

Big jams and lots of blue lights from Clapham through Stuckwell Gyratory on beyond Kennington Evil.  But no sign of what the problem was.  Fuckwits turning blind through lines of traffic into a bus lane/cycle superhighway.  At one point, I had to avoid one truck steaming through from my right and a moron emerging without pause into the bus lane (no room to get into the general one ::-) ) from the left.  Just all over.  Gits.

But the cyclists :(

*sigh*

The last couple of winters, the standard of cycling has gone up because it's the more experienced who stay on the road.  This year, despite the weather, a lot of 'summer cyclists' have kept it up, and I'm really pleased about that.

But there is so much RLJing right now.  It's not unusual for me to be the only rider out of about ten to stop at a red light.  And there are others (the same ones?) who hop up onto the pavement to get past queueing traffic at a junction, riding through pedestrians, then jumping back into the road without looking, causing law-abiding cyclists to have to brake or swerve.  And it's every man for himself.  There are a couple of places on my commute where we have to file out to get through a gap.  Not a problem: Faster riders and myself have to slow a bit for a few seconds while we all merge in.  But now, we have people charging through gaps, cutting up other cyclists, causing them to have to stop in dangerous positions.  I'm all right Jack >:(

I don't expect decent driving from motorists, but we should be able to expect it from our peers. 

Quote
It's not the despair, Laura. I can take the despair. It's the hope I can't stand.


I've seen the same, and I've been thinking that it goes in cycles (sorry).  We had a pretty good cycling summer, with the Boris bikes tube strikes an' all, and lots more on bikes. This winter has surprised me, too, not just with the RLJers but with the commuter racers and general numptyness.  I think deep breaths, smile, and wait for it to get back to normal, probably next winter.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 01 February, 2011, 11:25:51 am
Quote from: Feline on 31 January, 2011, 02:37:43 pm
Yikes itsbruce that sounds nasty.

Out of interest, will the taxi or the woman have to pay for the damage to the parked car? Personally I would probably have blamed the taxi driver since he is the one with the mirrors who should have seen you coming and told her to wait.

The one place I'm never usually looking for doors to open is in cars actually in the traffic and not parked :(

Yes, all down to the driver and his insurance. When I did a bit of mini-cabbing hurrumph years ago, I was stopped in a mews alleyway when a passenger opened the dooring in front of a motorbike who was doing silly speed using the alley as a cut through, I'd even said "hang on" to the passenger. Still all my fault and insurance claim, though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 01 February, 2011, 11:30:57 am
Last night I got overtaken and dropped by a thin chap on a Pearson fixed
Makes a change to have some decent opposition in the tour de commute
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 01 February, 2011, 11:46:53 am
Speaking of cyclists not really playing the "be traffic get treated as traffic" game, I forgot to mention last nights entertainment.
Cyclist some way in front. No lights, dark clothes, but a well lit street so not really a problem but set me up to expect idiocy. We're going down a cycle lane where a lot of cars turn left at the lights (Lewes Road / Coombe Road for the locals). There's parked cars and entrances to the left and often a queue of cars to the right, so it is time to create a bit of space and be alert in my book. Car beside her was indicating left, in good time. Rather than get ahead or ease off and wave it past she stops in the ASL, foot on the floor. Still stopped some time later when I got there to go through the still green light with no cars beside me. Next light is red when I got there. Guess who stopped and who carried on.  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 01 February, 2011, 12:13:20 pm
Indeed, it was the minicab driver who accepted liability and left a note on the car, which was still there this morning.  He took the license plate number, so I assume the insurance company will make contact.

I'm staying with friends in Streatham until my boiler is fixed.  My Streatham->Battersea Bridge commute is much nicer than the Camberwell to Battersea Bridge route.  Puts me in a nicer mood for the second half of the route, too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 01 February, 2011, 12:24:34 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 01 February, 2011, 10:14:43 am
I saw all the traffic while walking the dog (I don't go that way on the bike). It was pretty bad.

Unfortunately my colleague has just reported seeing a mangled tourer and a parked-up lorry on her cycle to work, on the Brixton Road before the Oval. No sign of the cyclist but lots of debris. I'm hoping it is not as bad as it sounds.

Aye, Emily reported a mangled bike, and a stopped bus and a car. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 01 February, 2011, 12:50:29 pm
From BBC London Travel:

Quote
A23 London - A23 Brixton Road in Kennington closed and queueing traffic in both directions between the Caldwell Street junction and the A202 Camberwell New Road junction, because of a serious accident.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tlottrike on 01 February, 2011, 01:28:19 pm
Last night on the way home a Peugot 205 type car came whizzing past me on a narrow country road covered in mud from ploughing that day. He passed me with just enough room but I thought to myself "he was going a bit quick" considering the road's condition and he was approaching a blind bend which has a house on the corner that blocks out the headlights of anything coming the other way and the road actually narrows at this point. Sure enough as he goes into the corner his brake lights come on and he comes to a rapid halt. There in a big old land rover is a farmer but what amused me was that instead of it being me berating some loon of a driver the farmer was having a proper go at him. As we waited for the farmer to finish his rant it put a big cheesy grin on my face, made the delay very worth while ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 01 February, 2011, 04:04:44 pm
Tootling past a stream of cars this morning, i spied some rubbish being ejected from a nearside window. I stopped and retrieved the half eaten apple, tapped on the driver's window and handed it back. ' excuse me mate, i think you dropped this'. ' sorry mate' he said ' i thought i threw it out of my window. (rides off bemused).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 01 February, 2011, 07:08:12 pm
Very foggy coming home.  Had to stop at one stage as I couldn't see the road or anything.  Scary.  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Palinurus on 01 February, 2011, 07:54:38 pm
Saw this cyclist coming towards me this morning. He seemed really high up and bobbing all over the place, but his bike had tiny wheels. Imagine Eros Poli sprinting on a Bickerton.

As he got close I saw it was a sort of small-wheeled bike propelled by treadles.

Something like this perhaps.

(http://www.elliptigo.com/assets/Uploads/Description/SideView01Bluefinal.gif)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Palinurus on 01 February, 2011, 07:55:32 pm
The transmission was very much like the photo anyway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 01 February, 2011, 08:07:44 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 01 February, 2011, 10:14:43 am
I saw all the traffic while walking the dog (I don't go that way on the bike). It was pretty bad.

Unfortunately my colleague has just reported seeing a mangled tourer and a parked-up lorry on her cycle to work, on the Brixton Road before the Oval. No sign of the cyclist but lots of debris. I'm hoping it is not as bad as it sounds.

I passed this as well. There was stuff scattered around, mangled bike, at least one shoe, a rucksack, a helmet. It did all look rather bad.

I was told that the cyclist had come unstuck trying to squeeze between a tanker lorry and a bus. Whether or not this is true I do not know.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adam on 01 February, 2011, 09:15:20 pm
Ever been sat in traffic and having an ambulance or police car zoom up the middle of the road, and dreamt about just putting your foot down, and following the blue flashing lights??

Fantasy became true life for me today in Harpenden - and I was on the bike!

On the way home, whilst waiting to pull out across all the queuing cars full of commuters stuck in the High Street, I could see an ambulance rushing along.  As it's quite narrow with a number of refuges, the ambulance couldn't go very fast down the middle of the road, so as it approached from my left, I pulled out a bit into the road, and then as he passed, pushed off, pedalling furiously in its wake. 

The ambulance was probably only able to reach just over 20 mph maximum as the cars in front dived to the sides of the road.  I managed to keep up behind it for about 300 metres before the road cleared sufficiently for it to accelerate away, leaving me loads of room to pull back into the left hand side of the road.

 :smug:

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 01 February, 2011, 09:21:06 pm
you ambulance chaser,you rascal ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 01 February, 2011, 09:33:27 pm
Quote from: Adam on 01 February, 2011, 09:15:20 pm
Ever been sat in traffic and having an ambulance or police car zoom up the middle of the road, and dreamt about just putting your foot down, and following the blue flashing lights??

Fantasy became true life for me today in Harpenden - and I was on the bike!

On the way home, whilst waiting to pull out across all the queuing cars full of commuters stuck in the High Street, I could see an ambulance rushing along.  As it's quite narrow with a number of refuges, the ambulance couldn't go very fast down the middle of the road, so as it approached from my left, I pulled out a bit into the road, and then as he passed, pushed off, pedalling furiously in its wake. 

The ambulance was probably only able to reach just over 20 mph maximum as the cars in front dived to the sides of the road.  I managed to keep up behind it for about 300 metres before the road cleared sufficiently for it to accelerate away, leaving me loads of room to pull back into the left hand side of the road.

 :smug:



Haha, this is truly awesome! I have to admit to having done something similar in my car occasionally but by bike earns you respect  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 01 February, 2011, 09:36:13 pm
And if anyone complains, just shout "My wife's in there, having a baby!"  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wowbagger on 01 February, 2011, 10:08:50 pm
Not quite a commute, but I was stopped by the police this evening. I was riding on the pavement at the time, heading for a shared use path about 10 yards away. There was a large crowd milling around because The Bleeders were due to kick off some half hour later just across the road.

I had a very affable conversation with PC (or whatever rank) Warren Lamb, who was a pupil of mine some 30 years ago who asked me how I was enjoying being retired. Cheeky git! I still do a handful of hours a week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: n0seblunt on 02 February, 2011, 06:20:28 pm
Sorry to report that on the commute tonight I came across a nasty aftermath of a collision in Dalston (the corner of Dalston Lane and Kingsland Rd) where the remains of a mangled bike (looked like a white or blue shopper) were under the wheels of a massive articulated lorry. Lots of police and ambulances and all four roads shut down.

I'd be very surprised if they made it out of that alive. Best wishes to them.

But worth reiterating again, never undertake lorries.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 02 February, 2011, 06:35:15 pm
Do we need to assume there was undertaking?  What's not to say the lorry was overtaking and the driver just didn't care.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 02 February, 2011, 06:48:36 pm
This sounds awfully similar to the Catriona Patel killing where she was stopped at a red light at the junction and the vehicle was driven left straight over her. Assumptions like 'the cyclist must have undertaken a lorry' make my blood boil to be honest.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: n0seblunt on 02 February, 2011, 06:49:07 pm
Fair point. The bike was crushed on the near side of the lorry towards the middle of the vehicle and the lorry was L shaped, turning left (this is at a cross roads with lights on all four sides).

There could be an entirely different explanation and I shouldn't just assume the cyclist was to blame.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 02 February, 2011, 07:53:21 pm
Blowing a gale on the tops this evening. Mostly a horrible cross wind (blowing from SW, route is to NW) but there is one little 2k stretch where it became a tail wind - clocked it at 52kph+gusts  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Rimnod on 02 February, 2011, 08:01:40 pm
2 things of note for today's commute to and from St Andrews

1  Tonight I witnessed a student riding between the main building on South street and the halls with a full set of servicable lights and he indicated at road junctions.  :o

2.  Saw a adult Badger ambling down a grass verge. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 03 February, 2011, 08:15:04 am
Wished I'd used the main road this morning. Lots of walking this morning because of ice. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 03 February, 2011, 08:45:25 am
Absolutely beautiful ride in this morning. Amazing what a good bit of sunshine can do for your mood.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 February, 2011, 09:03:02 am
Diverted commute last night, going via St Helier.  Good fun, if a bit slow.  Headwind meant that I didn't even get the usual zoom home down the hill :(

This morning was a good ride.  I believe there may have been a tailwind, but it was quite a personal one, as I was passing an awful lot of people.

Somewhere after Oval, one cyclist started singing 'Blinded by the lights...', then honked a traditional horn.  There were a couple of other humourous shouts, but I didn't catch them.  I don't think they were directed at me - just someone enjoying his ride. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 03 February, 2011, 09:10:06 am
Balmy 7 degrees C in London this morning.  Short-sleeve top and shorts weather.  Can only assume all these London cyclists are still in their winter clothes out of habit ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 03 February, 2011, 09:35:14 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 03 February, 2011, 09:10:06 am
Balmy 7 degrees C in London this morning.  Short-sleeve top and shorts weather.  Can only assume all these London cyclists are still in their winter clothes out of habit ;)


I'm certainly wearing winter clothes out of habit at the moment, I's rather be over warm than underdressed.

It was sluggish going this morning, felt like the slowest on the commute  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 03 February, 2011, 09:52:00 am
I treated myself this morning and left after 8. I saw the sun, yay!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 03 February, 2011, 09:57:35 am
Quote from: Wendy on 02 February, 2011, 06:35:15 pm
Do we need to assume there was undertaking?  What's not to say the lorry was overtaking and the driver just didn't care.

True, but they still do it anyway. I see three or four instances every single day. The message is not getting through.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 03 February, 2011, 10:38:52 am
Last night wasn't too nice coming home.  The drizzle developed into proper rain and it was horizontal due to a headwind.  The rain had stopped by the time I got home of course

Nice this morning though, no rain, light wind, warm(er)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 03 February, 2011, 12:28:57 pm
Some wind on the way in today - had to pedal hard downhill on the odd occasion....

However, XCWeather is predicting 60mph gusts over the tops on the way home this evening though...  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cyclops on 03 February, 2011, 03:06:22 pm
Driving sleet this morning and now it's got really windy this afternoon. Met Office are predicting 60mph+ gusts at going home time. Hopefully, I won't end up getting blown over a hedge :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 03 February, 2011, 03:24:14 pm
Bright sun on the way in this morning  :thumbsup:

Well behaved drivers  :thumbsup:

Bit of diesel about  :-\

Light winds  :thumbsup:


Hope it's that good on the way home...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: peliroja on 03 February, 2011, 06:13:51 pm
New Kings Road blocked by police cordon between Wandsworth Bridge Road and Parsons Green on way home today. Side streets rammed with cars. Anyone know what had happened?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 03 February, 2011, 07:39:45 pm
After a week of near-misses, the bastards finally got me.

OK, I exaggerate.  But the brainless nerk who decided to cut time off his journey by turning right across one line of traffic and then stopping in front of it while hoping that someone would let him in deserves more than to have his front wing slightly dented by my front wheel and forks.  I'll know the car in future, as it's the one with my boot marks just ahead of the driver's door.

It could have been worse - I came around the rear of a car turning left into the junction he was turning right from, and he simply didn't look.  By the time he had deigned to notice me, he was already blocking the entire road, so I could only bra-a-a-ke.  I thought I was going to end up spread-eagled across his bonnet, but I aimed for the wheel well, and I lost enough speed that my wheel and forks took most of the impact, and I did an impressive endo, managed to unclip and bounced back onto my heels, astride my bike.  The only bodily impact was where I knocked my knee into my handlebars, and I don't expect any lasting damage, as it was pretty minor.

I landed, looked at the driver and shouted "you fucking wanker".  He wound down his window and babbled something at me, but I was more concerned with checking I was alright, and getting off the road.  I thought I was OK, and told him so, and he didn't hang around.  I was expecting a mouthful of abuse, to be honest.  While I was re-straightening my bars (that, and the slight inwardness of the brake lever from my death-grip braking seem to be the only effects), another driver stopped to offer himself as a witness, but since I was fine, and the bike is as good as it ever gets, I thanked him and decided to chalk it up to experience.

Of course, it all went wrong when I decided to change my routine by leaving work half an hour earlier and taking a different route.  It'll be a slightly more sedate ride to work tomorrow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 03 February, 2011, 07:58:19 pm
Quote from: Deano on 03 February, 2011, 07:39:45 pm
After a week of near-misses, the bastards finally got me.



Glad you're OK Deano.

Let's all be careful out there!  There seems to be a lot of it about.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 03 February, 2011, 08:07:12 pm
Glad you are unscathed, Deano.

I knocked a rider off his bike just there on the King's Road  :-[ A bit of a jumble of traffic at the lights, across two lanes, lights red. I cut through a gap from the nearside so that I could filter on the right. Muffled shout from behind: man down! Hadn't felt a thing. Went back as he picked himself up, offered to wait and to get his bike over to the footpath for a check over, but he was very gracious, said "I do the same myself sometimes" and clearly just wanted to get on and ride. Sorry again  :(

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 03 February, 2011, 08:12:52 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 03 February, 2011, 09:10:06 am
Balmy 7 degrees C in London this morning.  Short-sleeve top and shorts weather.  Can only assume all these London cyclists are still in their winter clothes out of habit ;)


I switched to 3/4 shorts. That any good?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 03 February, 2011, 08:23:26 pm
Quote from: Lindagordinho on 03 February, 2011, 07:58:19 pm
Quote from: Deano on 03 February, 2011, 07:39:45 pm
After a week of near-misses, the bastards finally got me.



Glad you're OK Deano.

Let's all be careful out there!  There seems to be a lot of it about.

Eep!  Glad it wasn't more serious.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 03 February, 2011, 08:31:25 pm
It's a relief that the final score is
Deano 1 : 0 Injury
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 03 February, 2011, 08:57:23 pm
Quote from: Lindagordinho on 03 February, 2011, 07:58:19 pm
Quote from: Deano on 03 February, 2011, 07:39:45 pm
After a week of near-misses, the bastards finally got me.



Glad you're OK Deano.

Let's all be careful out there!  There seems to be a lot of it about.

Indeed - see the woman in the 4x4 who nearly t-boned me at a roundabout this afternoon, despite it being broad daylight, her having a completely unhindered view, and me having a Police van directly behind me.  Lucky I've a loud voice, and a body swerve good enough to get around her front bumper.

The daft old biddy's reactions were so slow that she ended up stopped in the middle of the road, staring at me in shock, blocking the path of the Police van.  It was her approach speed that gave me warning, so I could shout and speed up enough to get past - she'll have been a good twenty yards from the junction when I was already on the roundabout.

That was the really scary one, as if she'd made contact... well, best not to dwell on that.

I might walk in tomorrow - I need to build up my walking legs anyway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Karla on 03 February, 2011, 09:10:52 pm
Sheesh, what a day!  Glad you're still in one piece.

Quote from: Deano on 03 February, 2011, 08:57:23 pm
I might walk in tomorrow - I need to build up my walking legs anyway.

Thanks for reminding me, I need to get my feet used to boots again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GillP on 03 February, 2011, 09:16:05 pm
Glad you are OK, hope the ride on Saturday is a good one  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 03 February, 2011, 09:32:12 pm
Can I just say...

It's this thread that makes we wonder whether I should jack it all in, sell the bikes, buy a car, and become a hopeless alcoholic.

Damn. Why does cycling have to be SO difficult in this shithole country of ours?

You people who commute everyday amongst this - you are beyond me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 03 February, 2011, 10:04:42 pm
Normally, it's an enjoyable ride in, or merely unremarkable. 

I think there's a tendency only to post when something dramatic happens, such as a near-miss, which is bound to skew this thread towards the negative.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smurphboy on 03 February, 2011, 10:08:37 pm
Quote from: Chris S on 03 February, 2011, 09:32:12 pm
Can I just say...

It's this thread that makes we wonder whether I should jack it all in, sell the bikes, buy a car, and become a hopeless alcoholic.

Damn. Why does cycling have to be SO difficult in this shithole country of ours?

You people who commute everyday amongst this - you are beyond me.

Because it is so much better than sitting in traffic watching cyclists glide by. They don't get to appreciate the sun rising over Ashley Down this morning or get to have a chat at the lights about how long before the numpty trying to trackstand falls off or realises that the lights take over a minute to cycle through. Because even though I got home soaking wet last night, I was still in a better mood over dinner than my colleague who drove back into town and took twice as long.

I wouldn't go back.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 03 February, 2011, 10:10:32 pm
I tried the new road instead of the bike bath tonight. Yes, there was a silly overtake from a cab but it seemed like as good a way of going than the narrow shared use path next with oncoming car lights in my face.

Must have missed a gear change at the lights. When I changed down at the bottom of elm grove it was still hard - oh, still in the middle ring. Maybe that headwind wasn't as stiff as I thought.  ::-)

Quicker and more fun than the bus.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 February, 2011, 10:38:44 pm
Wind. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: newtoncap on 03 February, 2011, 11:01:01 pm
Quote from: Deano on 03 February, 2011, 10:04:42 pm


I think there's a tendency only to post when something dramatic happens, such as a near-miss, which is bound to skew this thread towards the negative.

I always read this thread and the stuff that happens to people really scares me, I ought to skip past it and just read the nice stuff.

Glad you're ok.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 03 February, 2011, 11:07:42 pm
Quote from: Chris S on 03 February, 2011, 09:32:12 pm
Can I just say...

It's this thread that makes we wonder whether I should jack it all in, sell the bikes, buy a car, and become a hopeless alcoholic.

Damn. Why does cycling have to be SO difficult in this shithole country of ours?

You people who commute everyday amongst this - you are beyond me.

I hardly ever have anything to say in this thread. No incidents to report. No epic ride. I enjoy my daily commute, it's just nothing worth writing about. I sometimes go a slightly longer way along a river and see ducks, some other aquatic birds (I'm no twitcher but I still like to see birds) and if I'm lucky, I'll see the heron at the lake. I find cycling very easy, free and enjoyable. Just nothing noteworthy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 03 February, 2011, 11:10:03 pm
Quote from: newtoncap on 03 February, 2011, 11:01:01 pm
Quote from: Deano on 03 February, 2011, 10:04:42 pm


I think there's a tendency only to post when something dramatic happens, such as a near-miss, which is bound to skew this thread towards the negative.

I always read this thread and the stuff that happens to people really scares me, I ought to skip past it and just read the nice stuff.

Glad you're ok.

I'll try and take note of the nicer stuff.  I was spoiled on my last commute (barn owls, deer, Raby Castle, mist and fog shrouding the Stang in the distance), so the dash across Darlington doesn't quite hit the high notes in the same way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 03 February, 2011, 11:10:54 pm
Thank you, TG. Harmony is restored.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 03 February, 2011, 11:11:29 pm
Glad you're OK Deano!  I also crashed my bike tonight, cranking it round a tight corner and then got blown to the kerb by a strong gust of wind.  Glad I'm only a foot off the deck!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Access Legal Guy on 03 February, 2011, 11:48:12 pm
blowing a gale tonight. add that to end of week legs and it was painful...really painful.

Is it bad that I'm looking forward to a commute by car tomorrow because I have a number of external meetings across the country?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 04 February, 2011, 06:07:57 am
I'll be on the bike in 20 minutes or so. I'm sitting here listening to the wind battering against the window and the lashing trees.

Can't wait!!! Bring it on  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 04 February, 2011, 07:57:17 am
It's a decade or more since I cycled to work. I still miss it.It woke me up in the morning & de-stressed me on the way home.It kept a base level of fitness which I no longer have :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 04 February, 2011, 08:40:05 am
Quote from: Deano on 03 February, 2011, 10:04:42 pm
Normally, it's an enjoyable ride in, or merely unremarkable. 

I think there's a tendency only to post when something dramatic happens, such as a near-miss, which is bound to skew this thread towards the negative.
That's why I try to limit my posts on this thread to pleasant stuff, hello birds, hello sky ect ect.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 04 February, 2011, 09:19:25 am
Quote from: Chris S on 03 February, 2011, 09:32:12 pm
Can I just say...

It's this thread that makes we wonder whether I should jack it all in, sell the bikes, buy a car, and become a hopeless alcoholic.

Damn. Why does cycling have to be SO difficult in this shithole country of ours?

You people who commute everyday amongst this - you are beyond me.

Had a great ride in this morning.  it was so warm I took my coat off.  The tailwind propelled me up the hill I get a time for when I am training at a near-record-breaking pace.  Dry roads, no numpties
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 04 February, 2011, 09:27:15 am
Quote from: smurphboy on 03 February, 2011, 10:08:37 pm
Quote from: Chris S on 03 February, 2011, 09:32:12 pm
Can I just say...

It's this thread that makes we wonder whether I should jack it all in, sell the bikes, buy a car, and become a hopeless alcoholic.

Damn. Why does cycling have to be SO difficult in this shithole country of ours?

You people who commute everyday amongst this - you are beyond me.

Because it is so much better than sitting in traffic watching cyclists glide by. They don't get to appreciate the sun rising over Ashley Down this morning or get to have a chat at the lights about how long before the numpty trying to trackstand falls off or realises that the lights take over a minute to cycle through. Because even though I got home soaking wet last night, I was still in a better mood over dinner than my colleague who drove back into town and took twice as long.

I wouldn't go back.

+ 1. Me neither. I don't want to sit on a train and listen to all the idiots gassing inanely on their moblies.

Trackstanding knobheads - I had one behind me at London Bridge yesterday. I was patiently waiting behind a couple of taxis and this chap on a lurid orange bike was trackstanding almost into my a*se. I said 'why don't you go on ahead of me, go on dear', so he pushed past me  ::-).

It were right windy this morning, plus I saw Clarion's doppelganger again.

Cycling home tonight is going to be horrendous, but I have the Six Nations to go home to  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 04 February, 2011, 09:42:55 am
By gum, that was blowy.  And a bit drizzly.  And a truck going the other way threw up a load of finely misted muddy spray, and now me, my bike and my panniers look like we have odd-coloured measles. 

I got a thumbs up from a bus driver (for pulling right in and slowing down miles back from the junction - well, it was completely obvious that when he turned in to drive towards me he would go miles over onto the wrong side of the road because the corner is quite sharp!), a thank you wave from a truck driver (indicated v early to show I was going to exit the not-really-safe-to-overtake-on road and he stayed miles back and just waited)  and a big smile from a car driver who was waiting to turn right out of a junction I turned left into.

Bloody lovely ride to work :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 February, 2011, 09:55:33 am
Great ride in.  There may have been a bijou hintette of tailwind. 

We can switch off the wind now, if you don't mind, as otherwise I shall be heading directly into it on the way home :-\

And I wouldn't mind having a weekend's gentle pootling without having to work into the wind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 04 February, 2011, 10:21:26 am
Quote from: clarion on 04 February, 2011, 09:55:33 am
Great ride in.  There may have been a bijou hintette of tailwind. 

With some side gusts for kicks. I was cycling down Tooley Street last night and the wind was pushing me into the middle of the road, it was quite an interesting experience. Granny ring will be adopted by the time I get into Lewisham methinks  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Seldom Killer on 04 February, 2011, 02:42:02 pm
The ride in was one of the hardest 13 miles I have ever endured. High winds, heavy gusts and having to lean at near 45 degrees on some of the exposed sections so as not to go careening into moving traffic. I even clocked up my fourth ever so gusty as to almost start rolling backwards.

Looking forward to the ride home tonight and I fully expect to not have to touch the pedals, even up the two big hills on the way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 04 February, 2011, 05:09:00 pm
Begads, that was windy.  It seems to have picked up this morning, when there was none worth the mention.

Needless to say, my ride home was mostly against the wind, but the ride in would have been mostly with the wind (if there'd been any).  I did think about riding a few miles further into it, so I could come home with it at my back.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 04 February, 2011, 06:08:29 pm
If I did that SCR stuff, then I might have to admit that I got passed by someone on a nippy looking hybrid.  But I could also point out that, possibly for the first time ever, I passed 4 cyclists on the way home despite the entertainingly ferocious head wind and carting the massive work-panniers-full-of-biscuits-laptops-and-cables-and-shite.  Yes, two of them were riding generic mtbs and were going about 3 mph into the wind (and yes I could really tell the difference once I'd passed them and was battling the wind myself!) but two of them were riding drop barred bikes.  I tell you, the world has surely turned upside down....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 04 February, 2011, 07:27:04 pm
Was involved in a collision tonight  :(

with a set of airborne wind chimes  :o

No idea where they came from, but it was eerie to hear their tinkling coming towards you as you are battling a wind from the side and then suddenly to find yourself being throttled by something wrapped round your neck and clanking loudly. I managed to stop without dropping the bike and disentangle myself from them. They are now dumped behind someone's garden wall.

If you were trying to stage a stunt like that for "are you being framed" you'd never have managed it.

The bike is ok - my neck is a little tender (and I won't comment on the colour of my underwear)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 04 February, 2011, 07:40:30 pm
Well.....
That was interesting.... Did not encounter any windblown chimes but there was plenty of detritus travelling at speed horizontally across my path.  It was indeed a trifle windy and gusty. Was blown to a near stop several times despite pushing hard in the granny gear (30x27)! Not able to clock the speed - ran out of geography at 56kph on the downwind bit.

No cycling tomorrow - have to go to Cambridge.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 February, 2011, 08:12:08 pm
Attacked by windchimes, eh?

It's started, I tell 'ee.  The machines will take over. It starts with the windchimes and goes on from there...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 05 February, 2011, 11:13:48 am
I have a cold, I'm drained and I'm at work on Saturday.  I should have come in on public transport - had little energy to fight the wind.  Just as well the roads were mostly empty.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 05 February, 2011, 11:23:53 am
That was a bit of a rough blowy commute home yesterday. Why is it that I get the headwind when I'm in a hurry and have been slowed up getting out of work?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 05 February, 2011, 12:16:10 pm
It was very windy, last night.  I am also now very sick of the state of the roads in Lambeth.  The number of dangerous potholes has grown dramatically over the Winter and the council seems to be doing nothing about it.  There are now many junctions and roads which have to be navigated carefully.   Last night, on my way up Bedford Hill, my front wheel went into a hole with such a thud that I thought I was going to be thrown off my bike, which would have been fatal in that traffic.  The wind and close traffic didn't leave me space to avoid it and a tumble would have been nasty.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 05 February, 2011, 06:32:52 pm
Got passed (nicely) by a council rubbish lorry.  Fell in behind at the start of Bromley Hill northbound, and thought he smells a bit odd for a rubbish lorry, kinda metallic.  Didn't really think nor pay attention, until the lights went green and we pulled off.  I almost lost the front wheel going around the corner, when I realised he was spilling diesel all over the road.

Now torn between pulling over and dialling 999, and chasing him down to get him to pull over and sort it out.  Chose to chase him down, but I failed, partly due to me being more careful next to the trail of diesel on the road and the strong gusty wind, so called 999 by the time I got to Catford.

Annoyingly tonight on the way back home, I saw no evidence of a diesel cleanup - the usual white stuff on the road.  Should I call the police or the fire service, and should I put in a request to find out how this was dealt with?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 05 February, 2011, 07:02:33 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 03 February, 2011, 11:11:29 pm
Glad you're OK Deano!  I also crashed my bike tonight, cranking it round a tight corner and then got blown to the kerb by a strong gust of wind.  Glad I'm only a foot off the deck!!


    YouTube
        - Oops, crash.
   (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u1r4H5awPy0)

LOLOL!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 05 February, 2011, 07:29:12 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 05 February, 2011, 06:32:52 pm
Got passed (nicely) by a council rubbish lorry.  Fell in behind at the start of Bromley Hill northbound, and thought he smells a bit odd for a rubbish lorry, kinda metallic.  Didn't really think nor pay attention, until the lights went green and we pulled off.  I almost lost the front wheel going around the corner, when I realised he was spilling diesel all over the road.

Now torn between pulling over and dialling 999, and chasing him down to get him to pull over and sort it out.  Chose to chase him down, but I failed, partly due to me being more careful next to the trail of diesel on the road and the strong gusty wind, so called 999 by the time I got to Catford.

Annoyingly tonight on the way back home, I saw no evidence of a diesel cleanup - the usual white stuff on the road.  Should I call the police or the fire service, and should I put in a request to find out how this was dealt with?


    YouTube
        - Rubbish lorry spilling diesel
   (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QFK7VQF1UZU)

This one was also nearly an oops crash too, I lost the front wheel completely for a moment.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 05 February, 2011, 11:01:01 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 05 February, 2011, 07:02:33 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 03 February, 2011, 11:11:29 pm
Glad you're OK Deano!  I also crashed my bike tonight, cranking it round a tight corner and then got blown to the kerb by a strong gust of wind.  Glad I'm only a foot off the deck!!


    YouTube
        - Oops, crash.
   (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u1r4H5awPy0)

LOLOL!

Oh dear. I might have laughed a bit at that ;D

At least it was away from traffic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 07 February, 2011, 09:05:40 am
Quote from: Deano on 05 February, 2011, 11:01:01 pm
Oh dear. I might have laughed a bit at that ;D

At least it was away from traffic.

Good, you should have laughed!!  I did too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 07 February, 2011, 09:55:48 am
Quote from: Wendy on 05 February, 2011, 07:29:12 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 05 February, 2011, 06:32:52 pm
Got passed (nicely) by a council rubbish lorry.  Fell in behind at the start of Bromley Hill northbound, and thought he smells a bit odd for a rubbish lorry, kinda metallic.  Didn't really think nor pay attention, until the lights went green and we pulled off.  I almost lost the front wheel going around the corner, when I realised he was spilling diesel all over the road.

Now torn between pulling over and dialling 999, and chasing him down to get him to pull over and sort it out.  Chose to chase him down, but I failed, partly due to me being more careful next to the trail of diesel on the road and the strong gusty wind, so called 999 by the time I got to Catford.

Annoyingly tonight on the way back home, I saw no evidence of a diesel cleanup - the usual white stuff on the road.  Should I call the police or the fire service, and should I put in a request to find out how this was dealt with?


    YouTube
        - Rubbish lorry spilling diesel
   (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QFK7VQF1UZU)

This one was also nearly an oops crash too, I lost the front wheel completely for a moment.

That is quite some patch of diesel left at those lights.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 07 February, 2011, 09:58:55 am
Nice racey ride in, this morning.  Unimpressed by the tit on a red road bike who undertook me on a couple of corners.  Stopped thinking about the wind after the first couple of miles.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Rimnod on 07 February, 2011, 10:55:24 am
Terrible run in this morning.  Persisting it down,  cold 15mph head wind (from the North), flooding, much to the delight of the moton's who all appeared to be on a mission to get in front of me and then triple park as close to the school gates as possible (this is permitted of course because they have 4 way flashers on BMW's, 4x4 and Fiat 500's) so their 'little darlings' did not get wet going from the car and into school.  Buy them coats you tight fisted moron's.

....................and relax
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 07 February, 2011, 10:57:24 am
Quote from: Adrian on 05 February, 2011, 11:23:53 am
That was a bit of a rough blowy commute home yesterday. Why is it that I get the headwind when I'm in a hurry and have been slowed up getting out of work?

I reckon that, had I just sat there this morning, I would have been blown to work eventuality.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 07 February, 2011, 11:09:42 am
Feeling a bit monday morningish, sluggish, rough, demotivated
Blown uphill by the wind
Stopped twice to remove/put back on items of clothing as it is warm but the wind makes it cold
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 07 February, 2011, 11:16:15 am
Did back in Saturday morning attempting to bend down and put running trainers on. Spent weekend alternately on floor, in hard chair, watching an awful lot of TV and reading. Drove in to work this morning. No cycle commute. Well, if you can call it a commute. More like a slight drift or cycle-amble in to work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 07 February, 2011, 04:11:25 pm
I walked this morning as the weather was the sort of weather that makes people drive like fuckwits and I was only going to the City Chambers, which is less than a mile away. However, I did pass a bike locked outside a shop, with an attached trailer which contained a blue bucket of soapy water. That seems like an odd thing to cart around by bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: arallsopp on 07 February, 2011, 04:58:48 pm
Having given up on sleep, I headed into the office around 6. Gotta say, it was warm, still, and lovely riding out there. Looks like everyone else was having adventures whilst I was safely tucked up under my desk.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 07 February, 2011, 07:20:46 pm
This wind really is getting a bit tedious now....  >:(
Blown across the road once and almost off it once more...
Clocked at 64kph on the one suitable section before I ran out of geography.
A moton also had the effrontery to beep at me for wobbling  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 07 February, 2011, 08:25:20 pm
The wind blew. I (predictably) forgot I was going to $PIGFARM until I'd passed the turning and took a swig from my water bottle which usefully had a large piece of paper with $PIGFARM in bold marker pen held round it with an elastic band. So that's crosswind there, headwind back and a glorious straight kilometre where I was spinning out on the flat on 74". Splendid purple sunset, too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adam on 07 February, 2011, 08:49:43 pm
My speedo went from 13 mph to 5 mph in about 2 seconds, it was that gusty.

On the positive side, whilst stopped at the lights, I glanced down and noticed 20p which went straight into my pocket.  Last week at another set of lights I saw 2p (but didn't bother with it).

So for all you Red Light Jumpers out there, if you stopped at the lights, you'll soon earn yourself a (small) fortune. 

Stop at red - you know it makes cents sense.   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 February, 2011, 09:21:13 pm
I'm pleased the wind has died down a bit today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 07 February, 2011, 09:25:35 pm
I'll be pleased when it dies down even more tomorrow.

I've transferred my stuff over to the Bob Jackson - time to revert to commuting by fixed after a long period of getting everything Just Right on my Van Nicholas.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 07 February, 2011, 10:19:48 pm
B0ll0x, arallsop down via collision involving a white van at Vauxhall tonight.  Currently in hospital awaiting xrays, but communicating with wifey and supposedly OK.  V. shaken up though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 February, 2011, 10:23:23 pm
Oh poo.  Glad he's still with us.  Send our best wishes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 07 February, 2011, 10:24:56 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 07 February, 2011, 10:19:48 pm
arallsop down

Not good  :( Best wishes to him.

Very frustrating, this van business. I see it every day, every ride. It seems to be accepted that these people can drive to a lower standard than that expected of everyone else.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 07 February, 2011, 10:30:41 pm
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 07 February, 2011, 10:24:56 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 07 February, 2011, 10:19:48 pm
arallsop down

Not good  :( Best wishes to him.

Very frustrating, this van business. I see it every day, every ride. It seems to be accepted that these people can drive to a lower standard than that expected of everyone else.

Not their vehicle and sometimes hired, so not even their employer's or a vehicle they are familiar with. After hiring a car the other day and recognising the effect on my own driving of a £1000 insurance excess, I came to thge conclusion that all vehicles should have an appropriate one - £1000 for an average car, £2000 for a van or 'executive' car.

Hope Arallsop is ok.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 February, 2011, 09:03:11 am
Loadsa cars :(

Lots of morons :(

Some on bikes :(

Eyes streaming & problematic :(

Wind barely evident :thumbsup:

Fresh nip in the air :thumbsup:

Reasonable pace :thumbsup:

Interesting bikes :thumbsup:

Lots of riders on the road :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 February, 2011, 09:10:23 am
I stopped to help a chap with an upside down Foffa.  He was turning his spanner on the non-drive side nut (which I noticed was quite rounded, being made of poor quality material), and it was just spinning.  I advised him to stop, as the threads were probably stripped, and it wasn't going to get any better.

I didn't have anything which could help him.  First time that's happened. :(  Even a load of washers to step the nut out onto a better bit of axle thread (assuming there was anything left inside the nut to grip with) would have worked, but I didn't have anything.

He showed me that the wheel wobbled on the axle, too, which he thought was part of the same thing, but was just loose cones.  Bit of a rubbish wheel, really.

We were between Stockwell & Oval, and he was on his way to Blackfriars.  My best suggestion was Brixton Cycles, but it was somewhat out of his way :(

I just had to apologise, remount and carry on.  I feel sorry for the poor chap, and rather embarrassed myself that I was no use. :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 08 February, 2011, 09:25:38 am
Can I be allowed back in the club, please?  After 11 commutes on the Tube I was back on the bike this morning. :)  Can't say it was a great commute, but it was far from the worst.  More importantly, I feel much better having cycled again.

All those wannabe racers in London really should slow down and enjoy the scenery.  I could have cycled behind that lady all day long. ;)  And the two guys made made a great show of zooming past her really weren't that fast.  After the lady in questioned turned off my route I quite easily caught up with, and passed, the two blokes in question.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 08 February, 2011, 09:31:24 am
Quote from: clarion on 08 February, 2011, 09:10:23 am
Bit of a rubbish wheel, really.
....
I just had to apologise, remount and carry on.  I feel sorry for the poor chap, and rather embarrassed myself that I was no use. :-[

Don't be.  You stopped, his BSO was fubar.  You aren't an alchemist.

I stopped to help two shagged BSOs last month.  The first one was easy, it had a really cheap n nasty QR skewer that needed pliers to tighten it up..it had worked loose.  The second one, the rear derrailluer hanger/dropouts had snapped.  I tried to convert to single speed but there wasn't enough dropout left to hold the rear wheel.

We can't win against bent bikes every time when people start off with the cheapest cheese-o-metal that money is barely needed to buy
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 08 February, 2011, 09:51:48 am
Broken seatpost on the way to work this morning. Fortunately occurred only 2 miles from home so went back and swapped it out.
Metal fatigue after about 30kkm.
I really MUST remember that unexplained little creaks are NOT to be ignored even if they do sound as if they are coming from the bottom bracket...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hbunnet on 08 February, 2011, 10:03:50 am
Windy, cold and snowing. BUT first commute on bike for 5 weeks since knee injury so  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 08 February, 2011, 10:09:03 am
Quote from: clarion on 08 February, 2011, 09:03:11 am

Eyes streaming & problematic :(


Mine have been bad for the last two days, too. Terribly itchy. Can't be hayfever season yet?  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 08 February, 2011, 10:12:45 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 08 February, 2011, 09:31:24 am
We can't win against bent bikes

And that's why we were banned!!!


More seriously, well done clarion.  It's not your fault his bike had a major problem, you should only feel good about yourself.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smurphboy on 08 February, 2011, 10:18:46 am
I commuted inside a cloud today. I've not seen fog like that in Bristol in years. Even my eyebrows were soggy by the time I got to work and every surface of the bike was wet despite the lack of rain. I really need Rain-X for my specs though.

I was shocked by the number of cyclist without lights today. I nearly took one out who came out of a side road and I really didn't see him until I was almost on him. Luckily, the road was clear so I was able to swing out and pass (and also apologise) - I'm not sure he realises I almost piled into him.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 February, 2011, 10:22:32 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 08 February, 2011, 10:09:03 am
Quote from: clarion on 08 February, 2011, 09:03:11 am

Eyes streaming & problematic :(


Mine have been bad for the last two days, too. Terribly itchy. Can't be hayfever season yet?  ???

This ain't hayfever.  I think it's just my eyes overreacting to the cold :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 08 February, 2011, 10:52:10 am
I did a commute!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 February, 2011, 10:58:27 am
Quote from: Andrij on 08 February, 2011, 09:25:38 am
Can I be allowed back in the club, please? 

You were never really out of it :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 08 February, 2011, 11:02:27 am
Feeling returned to my toes during my meeting this morning, ouch.

I really should have taken the time to put my overshoes on and then filtered past the lady in the Discovery3 who just wouldn't make the right turn onto the A30. After 4 minutes waiting behind her I filtered past, and in the first gap from the right got across and through the cars that were queueing to turn right off the A30.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 08 February, 2011, 11:08:49 am
Quote from: clarion on 08 February, 2011, 10:58:27 am
Quote from: Andrij on 08 February, 2011, 09:25:38 am
Can I be allowed back in the club, please? 

You were never really out of it :D

It sure felt like it, especially while walking in from Whitechapel and watching all the cyclists travelling along what will become CS2.*

I'm hoping tonight's wind will be as benign as this morning's.


* My borough has blocked CS2. >:(  Knowing the roads involved, I doubt it would be as good as CS7, and *I* don't need a 'facility' along those roads, but a lot of people would benefit from it.  CS3 does run through my borough, but consists entirely of a re-painted pre-existing pavement route.  Hmm... CS3 is OK and happens to not actually be on any roads; CS2 would be road based and has been blocked.  Coincidence?

Sorry for the rant-ette
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: arry_b on 08 February, 2011, 11:26:50 am
I spotted a really nice looking high end Colnago.

That someone had fitted butterfly bars onto....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: αdαmsκι on 08 February, 2011, 11:31:05 am
I was able to cycle in today because I didn't have to do my 23 mile, one-way, commute today and it was soooooo much more enjoyable than driving. I feel more, erm, alive this morning having blown the cobwebs away and getting a nice dose of exercise too. I'm sooooo looking forward to post-Easter then this long commute is over!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 February, 2011, 11:41:37 am
Even though I went out a bit earlier this morning, it was almost light when I left :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 08 February, 2011, 11:50:38 am
Not the first time that me and the bike have arrived at work covered in a thin film of ice, but it was the first time that I couldn't get my jacket off because the zip was frozen solid.

Better than driving tho'.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 08 February, 2011, 12:21:02 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 08 February, 2011, 11:08:49 am
Quote from: clarion on 08 February, 2011, 10:58:27 am
Quote from: Andrij on 08 February, 2011, 09:25:38 am
Can I be allowed back in the club, please? 

You were never really out of it :D

It sure felt like it, especially while walking in from Whitechapel and watching all the cyclists travelling along what will become CS2.*

I'm hoping tonight's wind will be as benign as this morning's.


* My borough has blocked CS2. >:(  Knowing the roads involved, I doubt it would be as good as CS7, and *I* don't need a 'facility' along those roads, but a lot of people would benefit from it.  CS3 does run through my borough, but consists entirely of a re-painted pre-existing pavement route.  Hmm... CS3 is OK and happens to not actually be on any roads; CS2 would be road based and has been blocked.  Coincidence?

Sorry for the rant-ette
 

Are you Tower Hamlets, me dear?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 08 February, 2011, 12:22:56 pm
Last night after work, I cycled down to Conway Hall for a "Stop the War Coalition" meeting in support of Julian Assange.  Early on, near Ladbroke Grove, I stopped to see if a cyclist, who was sitting on the pavement and examining his bike, needed any help or tools (he was fine, just worried about the rattling noise the bike had started to make).  I didn't bother getting back into lycra before setting off, which seemed to boggle one chap on a road bike on Gower Street, who kept looking at my yellow track bike, then my civvies, then back again in some state of confusion.  I think he was even wondering if I had nicked the bike, but then he saw the Specalized MTB shoes on my feet.  And was still perturbed.

After the meeting and several drinks, I went East along Clerkenwell Road, turned on to Farringdon Road and just let rip, stopping only for the lights, keeping up a hell of a pace all the way down to Camberwell New Road (oh, and shame on you, Mr Lycra-clad Roadie, for jumping the lights there just to finally pull away; if I ever meet you while I'm sober and in Lycra, you're toast).  Once again, found myself wishing my regular commute offered that much fun.

This morning's commute was much more fun than usual, because I still had the memory of last night's racing in my bones.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 08 February, 2011, 12:30:22 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 08 February, 2011, 12:21:02 pm
Are you Tower Hamlets, me dear?

No, even worse than that.  Newham.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 08 February, 2011, 01:06:56 pm
Hit some ice today - and pulled on the front brake as I hit it.


Didn't matter though - I was on the trike  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 08 February, 2011, 01:13:03 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 08 February, 2011, 11:08:49 am


It sure felt like it, especially while walking in from Whitechapel and watching all the cyclists travelling along what will become CS2.*

I'm hoping tonight's wind will be as benign as this morning's.


* My borough has blocked CS2. >:(  Knowing the roads involved, I doubt it would be as good as CS7, and *I* don't need a 'facility' along those roads, but a lot of people would benefit from it.  CS3 does run through my borough, but consists entirely of a re-painted pre-existing pavement route.  Hmm... CS3 is OK and happens to not actually be on any roads; CS2 would be road based and has been blocked.  Coincidence?

Sorry for the rant-ette
 

My observation is that it appears to have worsened the situation on the Mile End Road. Previously, I don't think there were many problems on that stretch. Of course, there were the created pinch points for the pedestrian crossings that could have been designed out by making the crossing in one go, rather than staged. Given the massive width of the pavement (and the few pedestrians, it would have been simple to increase the width - simple, but costly. So instead they used a can of paint in Magic Blue shade.

Previously, drivers almost universally kept out of the cycle lane (except when they were going to turn left, so it was obviously important for them to drive hugging the kerb for 100m, just in case the car in front's width suddenly shrunk by a foot or so and let them squeeze through). Now, it is just impossible for two lanes of traffic and the CYCLE SUPERHIGHWAY to fit in that space, so drivers just take up a random position, mostly closer to the kerb than they would with the previous cycle lane. I've taken to riding down the middle, but I hate it there, on that stretch, and return to the left after the last crossing pinch point. In fact, I have noticed there IS something magical about a normal cycle lane, too, as when a car gets to the end of one it is mysteriously pulled in to the left, even if there is no need for the driver to be there.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 08 February, 2011, 01:31:16 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 08 February, 2011, 12:30:22 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 08 February, 2011, 12:21:02 pm
Are you Tower Hamlets, me dear?

No, even worse than that.  Newham.
 

Ahh. Sorry.  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 08 February, 2011, 01:47:42 pm
This was going to be in the rant thread but the outcome made me laugh so hard I cried.

To the silly cow in the Clio:

IF you had not squeezed me against the kerb as you moved between me and the traffic waiting to turn right I would not have been trying to chase you down at full blown sprint whilst screaming abuse at you, IF you had been paying attention to where you were going instead of looking in your mirror at me and trying to escape you would not have ploughed into the back of WVM at the roundabout without even braking.

I did notice that you looked a lot less then pleased when i offered told this to WVM and commented that "Your crazy overtake has saved you so much time. Enjoy your ride in a recovery truck!" as i pedalled off.

Now that's poetic justice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 08 February, 2011, 02:31:46 pm
An old git in a minicab just drove straight into the back of me. I was stopped, foot down, behind a huge great tipper lorry on Deptford Church St waiting at the Deptford Bridge lights. Right in the middle of the lane, in bright red Altura reflectives. The git hit my bike, my bike hit me, and I went down.

Minor grazing, ripped trousers, police presence.

Now off to hospital for something entirely unrelated. I wonder if the consultant will write me a note for damages...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 08 February, 2011, 02:53:34 pm
Quote from: Si_Co on 08 February, 2011, 01:47:42 pm


Now that's poetic justice.

it's karma son ;)
hope you are calmer now also ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 08 February, 2011, 04:30:48 pm
Quote from: HTFB on 08 February, 2011, 02:31:46 pm
An old git in a minicab just drove straight into the back of me. I was stopped, foot down, behind a huge great tipper lorry on Deptford Church St waiting at the Deptford Bridge lights. Right in the middle of the lane, in bright red Altura reflectives. The git hit my bike, my bike hit me, and I went down.

Minor grazing, ripped trousers, police presence.

Now off to hospital for something entirely unrelated. I wonder if the consultant will write me a note for damages...

Oh holy f*ck, how are you feeling now? Did the stupid old git stop even?  >:( >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 08 February, 2011, 04:42:26 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 08 February, 2011, 04:30:48 pm
Quote from: HTFB on 08 February, 2011, 02:31:46 pm
An old git in a minicab just drove straight into the back of me.

Oh holy f*ck, how are you feeling now? Did the stupid old git stop even?  >:( >:(

Oh, I'm fine. Pain around the graze: I really ought to stop and clean it up. The driver was stopping a perfectly sensible distance behind the lorry in front of me---except that I happened to be occupying that space. So a very low-speed impact. He couldn't go anywhere 'cause I left the bike in the road in front of his bumper. The police checked his insurance, told him off for not taking due care with the sun in his eyes, and suggested I'd get further at Small Claims if there was verifiable damage to the bike as well as to me and my clothing. The bike is pretty battered but I don't think I can pin any of that on him  ;)

("Your honour, my claim in damages is for a new chain, 8-speed block and chainrings. Also for a split outer to the front gear cable. I could do with a new pair of trousers too, but I shall not press the trousers")
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 February, 2011, 04:48:50 pm
But you are injured.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 08 February, 2011, 05:58:21 pm
Yes, but having waited until the police turned up and gave him the grade 2(ii) bollocking he deserved, and cost him half an hour of his time with a fare in the back, I am experiencing a great wave of ICBA.

(TCP stings, though. Can I get him for the pain and distress?)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 08 February, 2011, 07:49:28 pm
Quote from: HTFB on 08 February, 2011, 05:58:21 pm
(TCP stings, though. Can I get him for the pain and distress?)

Yes!

I got $$$$ for distress after a very slow impact which was so severe I went on to ride a further 450km.

He hit you, his driving was dangerous, you and your bike were damaged.

If you have bodywork damage on a car from an impact, you claim. Why do we belittle the damage when it's a bike that scratched, dinted, scuffed?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 08 February, 2011, 08:12:09 pm
I know it's a hassle, but pretty please claim from him?  It's about the only consequence he will get, and if he does, it might make him take care around the rest of us and better avoid a collision in future.


@Si_Co  You are the BOMB!!!  Love it, now where's the helmet camera footage?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 08 February, 2011, 08:15:24 pm
Quote from: Si_Co on 08 February, 2011, 01:47:42 pm
This was going to be in the rant thread but the outcome made me laugh so hard I cried.

To the silly cow in the Clio:

IF you had not squeezed me against the kerb as you moved between me and the traffic waiting to turn right I would not have been trying to chase you down at full blown sprint whilst screaming abuse at you, IF you had been paying attention to where you were going instead of looking in your mirror at me and trying to escape you would not have ploughed into the back of WVM at the roundabout without even braking.

I did notice that you looked a lot less then pleased when i offered told this to WVM and commented that "Your crazy overtake has saved you so much time. Enjoy your ride in a recovery truck!" as i pedalled off.

Now that's poetic justice.

Wonderful  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 February, 2011, 10:20:05 pm
The Met will do precisely Nothing about the dangerous driving by a cabbie, so only by claiming (deservedly) on his insurance will he learn the lesson he should have got as a toddler that actions have consequences.

Just do it.  It's not wrong.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 09 February, 2011, 08:40:43 am
Quote from: Wendy on 08 February, 2011, 08:12:09 pm

@Si_Co  You are the BOMB!!!  Love it, now where's the helmet camera footage?

 ;D Sorry Wendy don't do the camera thing.

Today a very pleasant pootle in but a bit over-dressed. Where did all that heat come from? It was bleedin freezin last night when I went out training.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 February, 2011, 09:04:58 am
What a joy!  OK, so there were a lot of motor vehicles, but what a cohort of cyclists passing along CS7!  I counted about two dozen at Oval, and they kept coming in.  Heading towards E&C, I was part of a large peloton travelling seamlessly together at about 30kph.

Perfect moments. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 09 February, 2011, 09:57:11 am
Was pulling into Thurston Road in Lewisham and spotted a cyclist lying down on the pavement with another cyclist to hand. Turns out he had been hit by a silver Merc so I asked him if he had the registration details to which he started reciting it out loud. I got out pen and paper, took down the details as well as letting him know about 'Roadsafe'. The other cyclist had seen the incident so he wrote down his details. I then called 999 for an ambulance, as his knee was badly borked. Two of his colleagues pull in, turns out he works for Lewisham College so they locked his bike up at the scene. The other cyclist promised to stay with him so I pulled away and as I was wending through Bermondsey the same cyclist pulled in alongside me and said that a paramedics and an ambulance had turned up!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 February, 2011, 10:00:51 am
:thumbsup:  Good people keep the world civilised :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 09 February, 2011, 10:04:35 am
Yeah, top work!!   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 09 February, 2011, 10:15:46 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 09 February, 2011, 09:57:11 am
Was pulling into Thurston Road in Lewisham and spotted a cyclist lying down on the pavement with another cyclist to hand. Turns out he had been hit by a silver Merc so I asked him if he had the registration details to which he started reciting it out loud.
This silver Merc wasn't a Kompressor with a private-hire badge by any chance, was it? I've texted you the numberplate of the vehicle that hit me near there yesterday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 09 February, 2011, 10:39:15 am
Quote from: Adrian on 05 February, 2011, 11:23:53 am
That was a bit of a rough blowy commute home yesterday. Why is it that I get the headwind when I'm in a hurry and have been slowed up getting out of work?

For the same reason I got a p*nct*r* in similar circumstances the other night. And again last night.

I shall be ritually burning an inner tube later to appease the cycling gods for whatever it is I've done to upset them.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 09 February, 2011, 10:58:47 am
Last night I went the long way home.  Chilly cold SE wind.

This morning it was much warmer, same direction.  I averaged 28.4kph.

Minor speedo issue, the magnet moved on a bump so I lost 0.1km for Bikejournal. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 09 February, 2011, 11:12:10 am
Quote from: HTFB on 09 February, 2011, 10:15:46 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 09 February, 2011, 09:57:11 am
Was pulling into Thurston Road in Lewisham and spotted a cyclist lying down on the pavement with another cyclist to hand. Turns out he had been hit by a silver Merc so I asked him if he had the registration details to which he started reciting it out loud.
This silver Merc wasn't a Kompressor with a private-hire badge by any chance, was it? I've texted you the numberplate of the vehicle that hit me near there yesterday.

It wasn't am afraid (have just texted you back!) - that bend on Jerrard Street and Thurston Road (near Route 21 and where the Gypsy settlement used to be)  is quite tight but thats why people should extend necessary caution on there instead of slamming it. Am going to e-mail our lovely cycling officer at Lewisham Council and see if we can sort out some signage there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 09 February, 2011, 11:31:15 am
A bit more of a slog this morning than yesterday, and left home later than planned, but I think I'm back in the groove. :)

Last night's trip home was brilliant!  Weather was extremely mild and, having left work after 6, encountered loads of (mostly well behaved) cyclists on CS3.  It was a bit scary at times (CS3, especially Cable Street, is too narrow) but fun being in a crowd for a change.  For part of my journey I was trapped behind a young lady (honestly, no chance to pass) who spent around 1/3 of the time out of the saddle.  For her I have the following words of advice:
(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 09 February, 2011, 11:40:21 am
Cable Street really winds me up (well the off road cycling section) - its not that its narrow (to me anyway), but all the stupid twuntish testosterone-pumped cyclists who like to ride up your arse.  >:( >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 09 February, 2011, 11:49:03 am
I, too, can get quite wound up when using Cable Street, which is why I usually avoid it.  This is mostly due to 'racers' who don't have the, ummm, fortitude to use The Highway or the A13 (the latter is actually comparatively quiet) — see rants passim.  I went that way last night because I just didn't feel like being 'on the road'.  I was genuinely surprised at the number of cyclists, as I expected to see very few, but with the numbers that were there (both directions) the silliness was kept to a minimum.

Personally, I think they should have made the whole road cyclists only.  That, and double the width of the path through the park at the east end of Cable Street.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 February, 2011, 11:51:50 am
Quote from: Andrij on 09 February, 2011, 11:31:15 am
For part of my journey I was trapped behind a young lady (honestly, no chance to pass)

Quote from: her_welshness on 09 February, 2011, 11:40:21 am
Cable Street really winds me up (well the off road cycling section) - its not that its narrow (to me anyway), but all the stupid twuntish testosterone-pumped cyclists who like to ride up your arse.  >:( >:(

Surely not! ;) :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 09 February, 2011, 12:08:39 pm
Inspried by Clarion's roadside arbitration service/mobile bike workshop, I fixed someone's puncture this morning.  (I usually ask if they're 'alright' or whether they've 'got everything they need' and if they're happy, I keep going.)  Unbelieveably the young lady in question had been to one of the bike shops between Balham and Clapham South and been told that they couldn't do anything about it 'cos the mechanic wasn't in she'd have to walk to Clapham North.  What bike shop employs people who can't (won't!) fix punctures?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 09 February, 2011, 12:10:48 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 09 February, 2011, 11:49:03 am
I, too, can get quite wound up when using Cable Street, which is why I usually avoid it.  This is mostly due to 'racers' who don't have the, ummm, fortitude to use The Highway or the A13 (the latter is actually comparatively quiet) — see rants passim.  I went that way last night because I just didn't feel like being 'on the road'.  I was genuinely surprised at the number of cyclists, as I expected to see very few, but with the numbers that were there (both directions) the silliness was kept to a minimum.

Personally, I think they should have made the whole road cyclists only.  That, and double the width of the path through the park at the east end of Cable Street.
 

Agreed, just make it cycling access only. Oh and get rid of the Sustranists pimping their business there.

Joking aside Clarion, Andrij is right in that these twunts do not have the balls to use the A13 but are quite content to cut people up and ride into the back of other cyclists.

Sorry, sense of humour failure this morning.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 09 February, 2011, 12:13:20 pm
Quote from: Chris L on 09 February, 2011, 12:08:39 pm
  What bike shop employs people who can't (won't!) fix punctures?

Evans, Halfords...I'm sure the list goes on ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 February, 2011, 12:27:44 pm
At a guess: Cyclopolis.  They open early, but don't have any mechanic staff in till 0900.  Psubliminal don't open early.  Apex in Clapham are a proper bike shop.  Open early(ish) IIRC and remain open to 1800.  I've bought a lot of 'bits' there on hte way home from work, and I am sure many other people do, too.

H_W, I do take your point.  I don't like inconsiderate cycling (as may be gathered from rants/commute reports passim).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 09 February, 2011, 12:38:30 pm
Fell off on spilt fuel. Fortunately, I was only doing 16kph (it was a junction), and the bike is fine. Lovely seeping graze the size of a scotch pancake on my hip.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 09 February, 2011, 12:39:26 pm
I know there is at least one terrible bike shop in Balham...my friend tried to do the sensible thing and get her bike serviced before she came on the last Norfolk trip I did.

She said they were quite dismissive of her and rude, and she was made to feel quite stupid but they grudgingly took the bike in for a service. It is not a particularly lovely bike, just a bog-standard elderly hybrid, but there was no need for attitude.

When they returned the bike and I met up with her prior to the cycling trip, I couldn't figure out exactly what 'service' they had performed - the tyres were not pumped up properly for a start and nothing had been replaced that I could tell. She has been told not to return to whatever one it was.

Ouch, Dr Mekon. Hope it heals ok.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 February, 2011, 01:03:25 pm
Eek, Dr M.  Hope it heals soon and doesn't cause you too much discomfort
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 09 February, 2011, 01:16:14 pm
Quote from: Chris L on 09 February, 2011, 12:08:39 pm
Inspried by Clarion's roadside arbitration service/mobile bike workshop, I fixed someone's p*nct*r* this morning.  (I usually ask if they're 'alright' or whether they've 'got everything they need' and if they're happy, I keep going.)  Unbelieveably the young lady in question had been to one of the bike shops between Balham and Clapham South and been told that they couldn't do anything about it 'cos the mechanic wasn't in she'd have to walk to Clapham North.  What bike shop employs people who can't (won't!) fix punctures?

That must have been Cyclopolis.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 09 February, 2011, 01:30:40 pm
Quote from: DrMekon on 09 February, 2011, 12:38:30 pm
Fell off on spilt fuel. Fortunately, I was only doing 16kph (it was a junction), and the bike is fine. Lovely seeping graze the size of a scotch pancake on my hip.

Yikes! Glad you are mostly OK, hope it heals fast.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 09 February, 2011, 02:24:17 pm
Quote from: Chris L on 09 February, 2011, 12:08:39 pm
What bike shop employs people who can't (won't!) fix punctures?

A poor bike shop that has just lost a customer
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 09 February, 2011, 02:35:27 pm
Quote from: vorsprung on 09 February, 2011, 02:24:17 pm
Quote from: Chris L on 09 February, 2011, 12:08:39 pm
What bike shop employs people who can't (won't!) fix punctures?

A poor bike shop that has just lost a customer

Bit late for Christmas Crackers, surely?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 09 February, 2011, 06:41:11 pm
(http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/182764_10150095141721839_551606838_5959247_8048175_n.jpg)

(http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/181667_10150095141486839_551606838_5959245_3835414_n.jpg)

I chose a different route!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 February, 2011, 09:33:31 pm
It's a York hazard.  I experienced it a few times unexpectedly when I was there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 February, 2011, 09:47:20 pm
Rider down.  Balham Hill.  Won't be getting up again.  I rode up just as the paramedics were putting the blankets over the body.  If I'd left work at my normal time instead of waiting a few minutes for a phone call that didn't come, I'd have likely been a witness.

I really feel for the people who have to deal with this.  The Paramedics & Ambulance Technicians, the Police, the friends & family, the witnesses etc.  The effects wash out in waves.  And it took the wind out of my sails too.  I thought hard about stopping somewhere quiet to have a good cry, but I settled for shedding some tears as I rode along.

Any of us could have been there.  OK, I have no idea what happened, but I know the junction, and I've had a couple of near misses from cars pulling out not expecting a cyclist to be doing any sort of speed down the hill (why on earth not?).  The car nearby (probably the other vehicle in the event) was a BMW.  The bike I didn't get a good look at, but it seemed to be a black road bike.  As I say, I don't know what happened, but there was another cyclist stopped nearby.  I guess he may have been a witness.  Enough rubbernecking, and I pedalled on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 09 February, 2011, 09:50:35 pm
Ah that really sucks Clarion. I can't help being glad you did wait for the phone call at work, it could have been you otherwise :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 09 February, 2011, 09:51:18 pm
*sigh*

:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 February, 2011, 10:05:58 pm
It's really unsettled me.  I suppose that's unsurprising.  I guess a lot of us regular commuters have seen something similar.  After all, I saw another death in Clapham that I posted about.  This one's hit me bad, though.  I suppose I was thinking about all of our friends who have been knocked off lately, including Arallsopp.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 09 February, 2011, 10:24:31 pm
Very sad.

Quote from: clarion on 09 February, 2011, 10:05:58 pm
It's really unsettled me.

Understandably. Some of the driving I've seen during this week (SW London commute over Putney Bridge), including a very very very close shave this morning with a Range Rover driven by a completely oblivious botox blonde MIWLTF*, has made me wonder as to the wisdom of it all.

*I was going to have a word, as the stationary queue we were approaching took all of 15 seconds to reach, but when I looked in it was obvious she was disconnected from reality, oblivious, half-baked . I rode on, but found myself thinking if I really wanted to be so vulnerable to damage from someone like this.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 09 February, 2011, 10:35:04 pm
I know what you mean, watching my friend nearly killed in front of us yesterday gave me a bit of a mental wobble. As we rode back to Bristol (now as a group of 3 not 4) we heard a massively loud and prolonged squeal of brakes behind us on a fast stretch of road, and all 3 of us literally braced ourself to be hit from behind. The car behind had attempted to overtake us when something was coming the other way. Fortunately he was able to decelerate fast enough to tuck back in behind us, but it was about the last thing we needed to experience at that point in our day. I can't help wondering the sanity of risking my life out there, the world seems to be full of utter morons at the wheel of cars this week :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 09 February, 2011, 10:44:00 pm
The world is /always/ full of utter morons behind the wheel of cars.

It occured to me earlier that this summer will mark the 20th anniversary of when I became a cyclist. Would I change that?  Never.

Sometimes we have to remind ourselves that awful though these stories are, we are naturally inclined to exaggerate the risk in our gut reaction, because the gut reaction runs on very simple rules that don't work so well in the information age.

RIP whoever they were.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 10 February, 2011, 07:31:03 am
I'm going to get wet.  Raining.  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 10 February, 2011, 08:23:27 am
Quote from: Grub on 10 February, 2011, 07:31:03 am
I'm going to get wet.  Raining.  ::-)

Let us know if it kills you. If so I'll feel guilty about making my son walk to school in the rain.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 10 February, 2011, 08:35:32 am
After yesterday's boil in the bag experience, 3/4's and short sleeves today - most bracing, makes you feel alive and amazing how much quicker you go to keep warm :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: redshift on 10 February, 2011, 08:36:07 am
Clipless moment, stopping for a set of lights.  My left foot simply did not want to unclip as I slowed down.  Fortunately that gave me some warning, so I coasted to the side and dismounted inelegantly, but with no damage to self or bike.  I've knocked half a turn off the pedal tension, just in case.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 February, 2011, 09:04:37 am
Warmer today.  Slightly earlier than usual, so a swifter ride and fewer numpties - motorised or otherwise.

Slight shudder as I rode Balham Hill.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 10 February, 2011, 09:06:58 am
I can summarise this morning's commute in one word: CЯAP!  There was wind, rain, pretty 'rainbows' on the road and plenty of *****.  But on the plus side I came to no physical harm, and I managed not to drag WVM out of his vehicle and introduce his head to the kerb. Repeatedly.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 10 February, 2011, 09:07:26 am
Quote from: clarion on 09 February, 2011, 10:05:58 pm
It's really unsettled me.  I suppose that's unsurprising.  I guess a lot of us regular commuters have seen something similar.  After all, I saw another death in Clapham that I posted about.  This one's hit me bad, though.  I suppose I was thinking about all of our friends who have been knocked off lately, including Arallsopp.

<Hugs> I bet its bloody well unsettled you. I know 3 people who have been hit by cars in the last 7 days and I was thinking that my own commute had improved because motorists were being more careful and courteous.

A rather normal and boring commute today (thank heavens) and the rain did not hit properly until Bermondsey. I am though starting to get weary of going through Cannon Street, it feels like I am taking my life into my own hands, but I suppose thats part of commuting into central London, isn't it folks?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 10 February, 2011, 10:03:37 am
Quote from: Feline on 09 February, 2011, 01:30:40 pm
Quote from: DrMekon on 09 February, 2011, 12:38:30 pm
Fell off on spilt fuel. Fortunately, I was only doing 16kph (it was a junction), and the bike is fine. Lovely seeping graze the size of a scotch pancake on my hip.

Yikes! Glad you are mostly OK, hope it heals fast.

It's wept through two huge dressings (thing the inside of a nappy size), and I've stained my back and neck a treat. Painkillers FTW!

Rode in on the cargotrike today in civvys to cheer myself up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 10 February, 2011, 10:05:37 am
GWS DrMekon, abrasions are amongst the most painful of injuries
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 10 February, 2011, 10:06:57 am
How are you this morning Clarion?  Hugs for you.  I have some inkling of how you must be feeling, many years ago I found my Dad like that after he'd been taken out by a car driver.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 10 February, 2011, 10:12:06 am
That must have been awful to see, Clarion. I know the junction you mean; even a pootler like me can get a speed up going down that hill. Supposed to be going that way later for dinner at my friend's flat in Balham.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 10 February, 2011, 01:05:33 pm
slightly damp this morning, I am now sat in the office hoping the rain will blow through before home time.

Just a couple of wake up calls this morning;

first was queueing traffic one of whom felt the need to fun his left wheels in the advisory cycle lane, installed for the psychological road narrowing effect with two traffic islands rather than a genuine expectation that cyclists will use it. I ended up switching to filter round him on the outside and then back to the left up the hill.

The second was a driver who timed his approach to the roundabout to merge in behind me as I took the next exit, however his timing was tight enough to have me worried he hadn't seen me. I held right and took a wide line on the exit, I probably should have held right and just gone round the roundabout again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 10 February, 2011, 01:09:43 pm
Yelled at an idiot.  Overtaking doesn't mean "come alongside, get front wing level, then move left".  Yes, the reason you did that was because there was an island there.  It was always there.  The gap between me and the car in front I was following, and keeping up with, was only about as long as your car.  None of these facts were unapparent at the point you decided to overtake.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 10 February, 2011, 01:33:31 pm
I was late. So a put a bit of welly on. And glory be, if I didn't go a bit faster.

I know this appears to be obvious, but lately it hasn't happened. So I was cheered mightily when it did.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 10 February, 2011, 01:48:33 pm
Quote from: boab on 10 February, 2011, 01:33:31 pm
I was late. So a put a bit of welly on. And glory be, if I didn't go a bit faster.

Cycling in wellies makes you go faster?  :o  And some people have the nerve to mock those of us who cycle in sandals...
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 10 February, 2011, 01:56:35 pm
My last snow ride was in wellies.  My MTB mate was horrified.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 February, 2011, 04:18:27 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 10 February, 2011, 10:06:57 am
How are you this morning Clarion?  Hugs for you.  I have some inkling of how you must be feeling, many years ago I found my Dad like that after he'd been taken out by a car driver.

Wendy, what I saw does not even come remotely close to that.   I cannot even imagine that experience, and I am sorry to hear of it.

I'm fine.  Just a shade more aware of mortality than normal.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 February, 2011, 04:25:58 pm
Quote from: simonp on 10 February, 2011, 01:09:43 pm
Yelled at an idiot.  Overtaking doesn't mean "come alongside, get front wing level, then move left".  Yes, the reason you did that was because there was an island there.  It was always there.  The gap between me and the car in front I was following, and keeping up with, was only about as long as your car.  None of these facts were unapparent at the point you decided to overtake.



I did have one bad experience this morning, and banged the side of a van for the first time in ages.  At Clapham Common Station junction, there's a bit where you go through the traffic lights as three lanes: Bus, general straight on and right turn.  But the bus lane is often blocked after the lights by buses at the stops, so cyclists pull out into the general lane.  Further, just as it goes through the next set of lights, the bus and general lanes merge.  To top it off, there's a big pothole directly in the way.

I was in the middle lane, and a car dashed round into the right turning lane alongside me.  He then moved immediately left on top of me (no escape - another cyclist on the inside).  Coming to the merge, he just carried on towards the kerb, with me in the way (and about a dozen cyclists behind me).  I banged on his van, and he did move off a bit, but we had a comical silent conversation as we travelled down through Clapham, him keeping up alongside me as I rode down the bus lane, but window closed, cursing (I suspect) and gesticulating, as I advised him, in return, to learn to drive. 

I left him behind before we left Clapham, of course.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: style over speed on 10 February, 2011, 05:14:20 pm
Quote from: clarion on 09 February, 2011, 09:47:20 pm
Rider down.  Balham Hill.  Won't be getting up again.  I rode up just as the paramedics were putting the blankets over the body.  If I'd left work at my normal time instead of waiting a few minutes for a phone call that didn't come, I'd have likely been a witness.

I really feel for the people who have to deal with this.  The Paramedics & Ambulance Technicians, the Police, the friends & family, the witnesses etc.  The effects wash out in waves.  And it took the wind out of my sails too.  I thought hard about stopping somewhere quiet to have a good cry, but I settled for shedding some tears as I rode along.

Any of us could have been there.  OK, I have no idea what happened, but I know the junction, and I've had a couple of near misses from cars pulling out not expecting a cyclist to be doing any sort of speed down the hill (why on earth not?).  The car nearby (probably the other vehicle in the event) was a BMW.  The bike I didn't get a good look at, but it seemed to be a black road bike.  As I say, I don't know what happened, but there was another cyclist stopped nearby.  I guess he may have been a witness.  Enough rubbernecking, and I pedalled on.

RIP, Is there any other more news of what happened?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 10 February, 2011, 07:45:00 pm
There has been a chap riding in the opposite direction on an orange coloured fixed.
Today I realised it was a single speed so I am more than happy to take the moral high ground now I know this.

Missed a toad crossing on the way home.  I could have sworn it was walking one leg at a time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 February, 2011, 08:55:06 pm
Can't find anything on the interwebs as yet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: redshift on 10 February, 2011, 08:59:23 pm
Spoke too soon.  Now have raging joint pain in the left hip/lower back.  Obviously the clipless two-step did some unexpected damage to something other than my ego.   >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Torslanda on 10 February, 2011, 10:29:38 pm
Quote from: redshift on 10 February, 2011, 08:59:23 pm
Spoke too soon.  Now have raging joint pain in the left hip/lower back.  Obviously the clipless two-step did some unexpected damage to something other than my ego.   >:(

Sick note. R I C E it. Don't go back to work until it's better.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 11 February, 2011, 12:45:26 am
Went on the Haslingfield loop on the way home. Dropped in on JJ and Mrs JJ on the way. So it took about 3.5 hours in the end. Camomile tea, hot chocolate and good company.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 11 February, 2011, 12:55:36 am
Quote from: redshift on 10 February, 2011, 08:59:23 pm
Spoke too soon.  Now have raging joint pain in the left hip/lower back.  Obviously the clipless two-step did some unexpected damage to something other than my ego.   >:(

Bugger.

Hope a good night's rest sorts it out for you.
If not, get it checked.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 11 February, 2011, 08:51:21 am
You're such a top bloke Clarion.  If I ever needed help on the road, I'd hope it was from you or someone like you.


p.s. am still in a bit of a black place after the blankets, it unlocked feelings I thought I'd long gotten past.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 11 February, 2011, 09:10:07 am
Thanks to the 2 cyclists (1 on a mountain bike, 1 on a racer who where mates) who up lifted my Stratford to Oxford st commute. My cold is still leaving me under par :sick:, you gave me something to chase and ........it felt better :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 February, 2011, 09:26:04 am
So sorry, Wendy.  I didn't know. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: redshift on 11 February, 2011, 09:31:15 am
Bus.  Limping, but not severely inconvenienced.  Have nuked it with NSAID.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 11 February, 2011, 09:33:49 am
Quote from: clarion on 11 February, 2011, 09:26:04 am
So sorry, Wendy.  I didn't know. :(

No no, it's not you mate, please don't feel even slightly bad.  I'm very sorry to make you feel that way.  It's one of those landmines only my own mind and experience can trigger.  It's probably good for me to feel like this anyway, despite it being horrible, as I must have locked much of it away at the time.

I love reading your commuting tales, you make me feel alive and all sorts of good stuff.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 11 February, 2011, 09:34:57 am
I actually saw another cyclist going my way!!

well actually he was pushing a almost BSO, I was asking if he was alright as I went past when I saw his left crank in his left hand against the top tube...

As I was carrying my commuting tool kit I stopped to offer assistance but he had not got the missing bolt and that is a spare I do not carry.

And then the rain came.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 11 February, 2011, 09:49:40 am
quickish commute in and the old legs feel exercised, after having a mini tour de commute with another cyclist between Lewisham and Bermondsey. Dispensed with a jacket today and wore mitts instead of full gloves, that feels sooo lovely  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 11 February, 2011, 09:56:00 am
Quote from: clarion on 09 February, 2011, 09:47:20 pm
Rider down.  Balham Hill.  Won't be getting up again.  I rode up just as the paramedics were putting the blankets over the body.  If I'd left work at my normal time instead of waiting a few minutes for a phone call that didn't come, I'd have likely been a witness.

I really feel for the people who have to deal with this.  The Paramedics & Ambulance Technicians, the Police, the friends & family, the witnesses etc.  The effects wash out in waves.  And it took the wind out of my sails too.  I thought hard about stopping somewhere quiet to have a good cry, but I settled for shedding some tears as I rode along.

Any of us could have been there.  OK, I have no idea what happened, but I know the junction, and I've had a couple of near misses from cars pulling out not expecting a cyclist to be doing any sort of speed down the hill (why on earth not?).  The car nearby (probably the other vehicle in the event) was a BMW.  The bike I didn't get a good look at, but it seemed to be a black road bike.  As I say, I don't know what happened, but there was another cyclist stopped nearby.  I guess he may have been a witness.  Enough rubbernecking, and I pedalled on.

Oh, I rode past that a few minutes later I guess. Lots of Police cars and a cyclist giving a statement on the roadside. I was hoping he'd hit someone and they were just taking details.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 11 February, 2011, 10:26:21 am
Three deer burst out of the hedge at Yondercott farm, about 100 metres from my house and ran across the road right in front of me and then and over the field.

In Craddock there were half a dozen peahens in the road fussing about.

Descending Blagdon Hill it was wet and there were petro chemicals on the bend I take at 30mph.  The rain must have washed it off mostly as there was only a tiny feeling of slippage.

Chain fell off twice between Trull and getting to work - the last couple of miles.  It was a new chain last month.  The nuts are solid and won't come undone the the small adjustable so I assume it is chain stretch.  I don't seem to have the 15mm spanner with me.  I'll have another go at tightening it at lunchtime coz otherwise it will be a tedious journey home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 11 February, 2011, 10:44:52 am
Grey and drizzly and the road was busy.  Couple of idiotic close passes at speed (always get it on this road, doesn't seem to matter where in the lane you ride) but also a load of much more considerate ones, including a several of HGVs, and a few thank you waves from various drivers - including a WVM - when I pulled up into driveways a couple of times to let them pass safely.  I always do this on this road - there are very few places where vehicles can pass safely on a four mile stretch of B road, and I'm slow.  Costs me half a minute, well worth doing I reckon.

Nice ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: n0seblunt on 11 February, 2011, 01:03:04 pm
Chased by a yappy west highland terrier in the park. Proper brightened my morning. And then I got a puncture. Bugger.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 February, 2011, 01:17:39 pm
Surprisingly sharp teeth they have.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 11 February, 2011, 01:43:48 pm
Quote from: clarion on 11 February, 2011, 01:17:39 pm
Surprisingly sharp teeth they have.
But they don't like being kicked up the arse with a SPD shoe
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 11 February, 2011, 01:56:12 pm
Quote from: vorsprung on 11 February, 2011, 01:43:48 pm
Quote from: clarion on 11 February, 2011, 01:17:39 pm
Surprisingly sharp teeth they have.
But they don't like being kicked up the arse with a SPD shoe

I'd be surprised if you were fast enough to get the dog...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DanialW on 11 February, 2011, 04:13:06 pm
A few years ago, I was on a fast, shallow descent somewhere in White Peak. To my right, I noticed a jackie chasing me full pelt, barking for their life.

About a kilometre later, I thought I'd lost the dog. Then it burst out of the hedge in front of me, narrowly missing my wheel. Good work, lad!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 11 February, 2011, 04:41:09 pm
In france in 2006 we were followed/led by a friendly golden retriever for about 5 miles.  We came round a corner to an entrance where two angry dogs were in wait.  They chased the retriever back the way we had come, towards the rest of our group (I was a few hundred yards ahead) managing to land bits on the hind quarters of our companion.  I expected an accident to ensue with our group and the furball coming together; I was surprised to see the golden retriever and the cyclists reappear from around the corner, with no sign of the enemy dogs.

Dog continued to accompany us as far as the next village, whereupon it shot up a driveway, followed by loud sounds of barking, and then it reappeared at high speed and disappeared back the way we had come.  We never saw it again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 12 February, 2011, 07:56:25 am
I encountered a delightful individual on the way home yesterday, whom I assume took exception to my filtering, or is maybe a Clarksonite cyclist hater. 

First came the 'teach me a lesson' close pass.  This was on a dual carriageway with an empty lane to the right.  Naturally he only got as far as the set of lights further up, where he chose to partially block the ASL.  I  filtered into the ASL anyway.  He roared past insanely close a second time then moved over into the right hand filter lane to turn right. 

Any doubts that his actions were deliberate were immediately dispelled when he wound down the passenger window to pointedly extend his middle finger.

I have posted the vid on Youtube and reported the incident on Roadsafe, but I doubt if anything will be done.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 12 February, 2011, 09:57:09 am
I had a slow release p_u_n_c_t_u_r_e on the way home last night.  I was so tired after working a double shift that I couldn't be arsed to stop.  So I waited until it was really low in pressure, stopped and used a C02 cannister and then kept going.  Made it home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 12 February, 2011, 03:44:33 pm
Quote from: Grub on 12 February, 2011, 09:57:09 am
I had a slow release p_u_n_c_t_u_r_e on the way home last night.  I was so tired after working a double shift that I couldn't be arsed to stop.  So I waited until it was really low in pressure, stopped and used a C02 cannister and then kept going.  Made it home.

Snap!  Just done that 15 minutes ago.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Canardly on 12 February, 2011, 07:42:41 pm


I have posted the vid on Youtube and reported the incident on Roadsafe, but I doubt if anything will be done.
[/quote]

Linky?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 12 February, 2011, 09:15:08 pm
I had a nice 21 mile pootle into work tonight. I hope I don't regret this in the morning when I have to cycle home in the pouring rain!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 13 February, 2011, 12:34:33 pm
Quote from: Canardly on 12 February, 2011, 07:42:41 pm


I have posted the vid on Youtube and reported the incident on Roadsafe, but I doubt if anything will be done.

Linky?
[/quote]

The reason I didn't post the link initially was due to my acute embarrassment at my chavvy and undignified response, which sadly has rendered the clip in question NSFW- unless you turn the sound off.

The limitations of my Veho Muvi in mediocre light and drizzle are all too apparent as well.


    YouTube
        - Y408 NMJ using car to intimidate cyclist for no reason
   (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rN3STa1jjFw)



Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 13 February, 2011, 08:22:27 pm
I wouldn't have pulled up on the left of a car that was obviously turning left. Driver was a twat thoughbut.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 13 February, 2011, 08:38:19 pm
Pointless filtering. Why the need to be in front?

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 13 February, 2011, 08:43:24 pm
Quote from: simonp on 13 February, 2011, 08:38:19 pm
Pointless filtering. Why the need to be in front?

Whilst that may be true, Gandalf is not doing wrong, unlike the car driver.  Frankly, I'm a little intolerant of the need so many cyclists have to pick on the video cyclists' minor issues of less than perfect practice but otherwise totally fine riding, whilst ignoring the elephant in the room, being the moton driving like a James Blunt and a bully.

Perhaps you think the driver was totally fine in his driving and it was all Gandalf's fault?  Because that's the impression you're giving.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 13 February, 2011, 09:37:39 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 13 February, 2011, 08:43:24 pm
Quote from: simonp on 13 February, 2011, 08:38:19 pm
Pointless filtering. Why the need to be in front?

Whilst that may be true, Gandalf is not doing wrong, unlike the car driver.  Frankly, I'm a little intolerant of the need so many cyclists have to pick on the video cyclists' minor issues of less than perfect practice but otherwise totally fine riding, whilst ignoring the elephant in the room, being the moton driving like a James Blunt and a bully.

Perhaps you think the driver was totally fine in his driving and it was all Gandalf's fault?  Because that's the impression you're giving.

It's so much easier to blame everyone else. The way we ride and /share/ the road has no influence.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 14 February, 2011, 12:58:42 am
Ah, so you are blaming Gandalf.  That's TRL549 down to the T, and victim blaming. ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 14 February, 2011, 01:29:43 am
Quote from: Wendy on 14 February, 2011, 12:58:42 am
Ah, so you are blaming Gandalf.  That's TRL549 down to the T, and victim blaming. ::-)

I'm now sick of you putting words in my mouth. Bye.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 14 February, 2011, 06:28:51 am
Ok chaps,  I was kind of expecting a dissection from the panel, which I guess is fair enough if you stick your head above the parapet.  

Re the 'pointless filtering' the reason I filtered to the left of the left turning vehicle  is because I have tried waiting in the queue at that paticular location and I find it problematic.  It is not a practice I would usually employ.  What happens is that being a mere cyclist I am unable to manage the Grand Prix pull away when the car behind me perceives that I should be pulling out.....you can guess the rest.  By filtering to the left it gives me a better sight line of the ignored 40 limit dual carriageway much more quickly.

The second one was, with hindsight,  partially motivated by bloody mindedness on my part as I do find it hard to take the path of least resistance when confronted by bullies.  I know discretion is the better part of valour and all that, but there you have it.

Even if I was 'in the wrong' I don't think I have broken any laws and as far as I am aware motorists do not have the right to dish out punishment using their vehicle.  If they are then it would only be fair to extend this philosophy to all road users.  What would be a suitable punishment for say, driving whilst using a hand held mobile?  Wing mirror destruction, keying the bodywork?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 14 February, 2011, 09:02:15 am
Fair enough, that makes sense. i wasn't excusing the twatty driver, nothing you did justifies his actions, clearly deliberate.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 14 February, 2011, 09:07:34 am
Cold commute this morning, but pleasingly not wet at all :)

Tired legs after an active weekend, so I was very slow, especially for the first half, though I made the time up a bit.

Enjoyed the ride immensely.  I hope you all had such a pleasant commute, wherever you are.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 14 February, 2011, 09:52:46 am
I'm told it's a lovely morning for a cycle ride. Shame I couldn't see any of it as I was being blinded by the sun all the way into work! :-)

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Karla on 14 February, 2011, 10:36:12 am
I was late.  I'm therefore not sure whether it was a good or a bad thing that I overtook the boss (another cyclist) on his way in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 14 February, 2011, 02:10:47 pm
Quote
Was pulling into Thurston Road in Lewisham and spotted a cyclist lying down on the pavement with another cyclist to hand. Turns out he had been hit by a silver Merc so I asked him if he had the registration details to which he started reciting it out loud. I got out pen and paper, took down the details as well as letting him know about 'Roadsafe'. The other cyclist had seen the incident so he wrote down his details. I then called 999 for an ambulance, as his knee was badly borked. Two of his colleagues pull in, turns out he works for Lewisham College so they locked his bike up at the scene. The other cyclist promised to stay with him so I pulled away and as I was wending through Bermondsey the same cyclist pulled in alongside me and said that a paramedics and an ambulance had turned up!

I've just had a response from the chap that got knocked off his bike:

Quote
Hi, I am the guy that was run over last Thursday. I would like to say a big thank you to both of you who stopped to help me. I was taken to hospital in the ambulance that you guys called for me and thankfully was only bruised and shaken, more shaken than I realised at the time.
The police have traced the car via the PCN and I am waiting to hear from them with an update.
I am at a loss to understand why someone would run another human being over and not even stop to see if they are OK.
It’s not going to stop me cycling to work though.
I will post updates if the Police catch up with the driver and let you know what happens.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 14 February, 2011, 02:11:59 pm
Hope he recovers well!   You really are awesome for stopping and helping.   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 14 February, 2011, 02:22:12 pm
h_w, that is AWESOME! Awesome that you stopped and helped, awesome that he has emailed you to say thanks and extra-doubly awesome that he is not letting it get him down, or stop him cycle commuting!!!!

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 14 February, 2011, 02:25:10 pm
Seconded, a big up to h_w and to the cyclist.   :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 14 February, 2011, 04:14:19 pm
I think I am glad I came by train this morning, my commuting roads look like being gridlocked this evening as it is the A30 from Junction 4 of the M3 up past J3 to Sunningdale and it will be the diversion route for the M3 Closure J3 - 2.

As much as I enjoy filtering past cars I expect them to be rather irate.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 14 February, 2011, 05:53:21 pm
Amazingly low traffic count today.  ???  Have I not been informed of a bank holiday?

I also only saw two other bikes on the way in this morning.

They were both road bikes.  Both the riders were female.
It ain't 1996 any more, is it?   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ianrauk on 14 February, 2011, 10:16:16 pm
Commutes are so much better when you bump into Her Welshness and spend some time nattering away whilst cycling.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 14 February, 2011, 11:50:26 pm
Quote from: ianrauk on 14 February, 2011, 10:16:16 pm
Commutes are so much better when you bump into Her Welshness and spend some time nattering away whilst cycling.

It was so lovely to see you Ian and am very sorry that my cycling pace was so slow  :-[ I will rectify this mate!





Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 15 February, 2011, 07:50:56 am
Traffic noticeably heavier on the back road this week.  Fairford closed to through traffic.  Just hoping the swine don't get to like using the back road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 15 February, 2011, 08:46:58 am
Very pleasant return to commuting after a long weekend away.  Krylion Carbon's rolling nicely, warm morning, earlier start with less numptiness on the roads.  I think I'll readjust my day so that I'm setting off at 7:15 most mornings.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 15 February, 2011, 09:09:07 am
Also back after a mini break (4 days).  And now having to re-train mentally after going from 'low-normal' (about 20,000 miles' worth) to 'high-normal' shifting. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 15 February, 2011, 10:29:08 am
Wet
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 15 February, 2011, 10:51:22 am
OK, so did anyone else see the woman feeding fish to the Herons in Battersea Park today or was that my own personal hallucination?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 February, 2011, 12:54:23 pm
Commuted in late cause I have an evening meeting.  Although morning on CS7 looks a bit like an outbreak of velotopia, lunchtime seems like a throwback to 1986 :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 15 February, 2011, 01:06:12 pm
Nice tail wind; didn't have much trouble keeping up with traffic.  Some tailgating by a following car as I went over the the Coldhams Lane bridge.  I could have gone up the left of the driving school car which could not fit between right-turning truck and the wall on the left, but I stopped, losing my momentum right at the bottom of the bridge. 

From a standing start at the bottom of the bridge I can only get to about 30-32kph by the top, whereas if I am carrying 40-45kph at the bottom I can just about maintain 40kph right to the top.  So I was dropped a little by the driving school car on the incline and the following car started tailgating me.  I looked over my shoulder and they backed off; they would never have been able to overtake (it's a blind summit) without causing a crash.  I had to brake soon to be held up by the driving school car again, and then overtook them on the right in slow-moving traffic.  I wonder if it occurred to them that they overtook me at the Perne Rd/Coldhams Lane junction yet I was still with them ~2.5 miles later at the Elizabeth Way/Chesterton Rd junction and if I hadn't been held up by them at the bottom of the bridge I'd have been even further down the road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 15 February, 2011, 07:22:45 pm
Large quantities of smeg and chutney on the roads today.  Even though I stayed on roads and proper paved paths, and have well-fitting extended mudguards, (with a mudflap on the front) I've still got a muddy sock, and dirt all over my bottom bracket and pannier.

I hope it rains PROPERLY tonight to wash the roads a bit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 15 February, 2011, 08:19:25 pm
My feet are cold and wet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 16 February, 2011, 06:56:30 am
Wet and windy yesterday, but I still enjoyed the ride enough to extend it a bit.  I'm determined to get my mileage up before the spring.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 16 February, 2011, 07:12:20 am
Jeez that was depressing yesterday.  Wet and very windy.  Got to work and in my new office I have a wall heater I can turn on.
In the office two doors down the H&S team live.  My shoes and socks got rather hot on this heater and for a while there they thought there was a fire somewhere  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Rimnod on 16 February, 2011, 09:05:51 am
Wet, bracing 15 mph head wind from the NE and worked hard into it just to clock 12.3 mph.  Not the best start to the day and I know that it will shift to the SW for the run home. Scottish coastal weather patterns......Ho-Hum
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smurphboy on 16 February, 2011, 09:09:23 am
Lovely, sunny ride in today. No wind, a little frost on the cycle path but really good fun - had a chat with someone at the lights about the clicking noise from my drivetrain - he is as stumped as me as to the cause.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 February, 2011, 09:30:16 am
Two things I forgot to mention about yesterday.  There was a huge branch right across one side of the road in our town.  Cars were just swerving round it.  I was the only person with enough nous to stop and move it.  ::-)

And I saw a smash at Clapham Common.  A car pulling out of a side road in front of a bus in a queue.  But the other lane was clear, and a car was coming along it, which the emerging driver didn't see/look for.  AIUI from ALG's helpful case law thread, it'd be roughly 50/50, so the insurance companies can fight it out and my contribution would make no difference, given that I was perhaps 100m away at the lights when it happened.  So I'm afraid I didn't stop to give my details on this occasion.

This morning was a good ride - lots of clear road, and the cars pretty concentrated in small clumps. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 16 February, 2011, 09:58:54 am
Riding in a bit of a clump. There were three reasonably serious riders, (Ribble, Spesh ). One guy on a  BSO with knoblies doing his own SCR thing, involving frantic amounts of pedalling, RLJ etc. Coming up to the ped lights outside London Hospital in Whitechapel Road, the 3 (who were side by side) stopped when the lights changed, making a roadblock. Mr BSO did not expect this, (people stopping at lights) cue  frantic braking and just about avoided pile up. I smiled.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 16 February, 2011, 10:41:00 am
Do you ever find your mood shifting substantially during a commute?  I started out feeling a bit tired and thinking that I could do with a holiday from cycle commuting and the endless watchfulness it requires (possibly influenced by the SMIDSY I assisted at last night).  A few minutes into the commute and I'm smiling and gliding along.  Not even the junction at Stockwell tube station could dismay me.

Do still wish my commute was less bitty.  I could do with a city centre job that let me race up and down Kennington Road, for example.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 16 February, 2011, 10:47:44 am
Not raining so I did my training procedure of fast hill climbing.  Unfortunately the cycle computer chose to not work on the final climb that I time.  Apart from that nice ride in
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 16 February, 2011, 11:15:39 am
Think my speedo's wireless transmitter is in need of a new battery.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 16 February, 2011, 11:22:40 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 16 February, 2011, 10:41:00 am
Not even the junction at Stockwell tube station could dismay me.

I do not miss that part of my old commute! Has CS7 done anything to make it better at all?

Last nights ride home was damp but really enjoyable  :thumbsup: Today my legs felt slow  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 16 February, 2011, 11:41:06 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 16 February, 2011, 11:22:40 am
I do not miss that part of my old commute! Has CS7 done anything to make it better at all?

It's made it worse for me, because I cross CS7.  That junction often has me dodging RLJing arseholes who don't want to drop the speed they built up on the thin blue strip.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 February, 2011, 12:08:38 pm
Worse for me too, and I ride along CS7
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 16 February, 2011, 07:11:47 pm
First commute in while, owing to my spending too much of January being slowly digested in the belly of an airliner. Mild weather, sunshine, what more could I ask for? The good sense not to fall off maybe. A conspiracy of road chutney, a tight turn, and an over-abundance of confidence. Front wheel yelled 'see you later' and headed off in a different direction.

As it was, it turned out to be one of the those zero Kelvin moments of absolute cool. Bike slipped out from underneath, depositing me standing on the road without even a stumble, so I could nonchalantly watch the bike stagger into the kerb and do an inelegant flip with all the grace of a walrus stuffed into a tutu.

Of course, as in all moments of supercooled, frosty grace, there was absolutely no one around to appreciate it. Alas, no serious damage to the stead, other than that which can be fixed by more sticky tape. I think I am one crash away from my bike being essentially made out of sticky tape.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 16 February, 2011, 07:38:33 pm
Quote from: ian on 16 February, 2011, 07:11:47 pm
First commute in while, owing to my spending too much of January being slowly digested in the belly of an airliner. Mild weather, sunshine, what more could I ask for? The good sense not to fall off maybe. A conspiracy of road chutney, a tight turn, and an over-abundance of confidence. Front wheel yelled 'see you later' and headed off in a different direction.

As it was, it turned out to be one of the those zero Kelvin moments of absolute cool. Bike slipped out from underneath, depositing me standing on the road without even a stumble, so I could nonchalantly watch the bike stagger into the kerb and do an inelegant flip with all the grace of a walrus stuffed into a tutu.

Of course, as in all moments of supercooled, frosty grace, there was absolutely no one around to appreciate it. Alas, no serious damage to the stead, other than that which can be fixed by more sticky tape. I think I am one crash away from my bike being essentially made out of sticky tape.

It's always the way.  Never a graceful dismount and an audience together.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 16 February, 2011, 08:00:00 pm
I used to have a pencil case made entirely out of sticky tape (apart from the zip).  I was that sort of kid.  It was pretty cool (well, I thought so) until the day my schoolbag ended up in a puddle...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 February, 2011, 08:50:00 pm
ian, glad you got a commute in :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: redshift on 16 February, 2011, 10:46:08 pm
My commute today consisted of a train ride from Manchester to London, the tube to Earl's Court 2 for the Broadcast video show, then back to Euston and a train ride straight back to Manchester again.  I are now knackered.

It cost ITV £76 to send me to London for 7 hours.  I don't know if it was worth it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: essexian on 17 February, 2011, 07:01:33 am
I am doing something today which I haven't done since 1988........ cycling in London!

I've got to get from Euston to Fennchurch Street so I could use the tube or the 205 bus, but instead I have decided to take my folder and cycle it, especially as I have a 2 mile walk at West Horndon to my hotel...or 5 miles if I get off at Upminster and take the long route.

Wish me luck.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 17 February, 2011, 09:06:10 am
Quote from: essexian on 17 February, 2011, 07:01:33 am
I am doing something today which I haven't done since 1988........ cycling in London!

I've got to get from Euston to Fennchurch Street so I could use the tube or the 205 bus, but instead I have decided to take my folder and cycle it, especially as I have a 2 mile walk at West Horndon to my hotel...or 5 miles if I get off at Upminster and take the long route.

Wish me luck.

Good luck  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 17 February, 2011, 09:06:54 am
London's got a lot easier since 1988. You just have to look out for the cyclists.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Morrisette on 17 February, 2011, 09:11:50 am
Yesterday the sun was shining in my eyes as I sat on the train, saying, 'come outside, you know you want to'. I listened, and today I did the full commute for the first time in 2011.

'Course today it's foggy and cold but hey! I still feel more awake/alive than I have since Christmas... Morrisette's big commute is back, baby.

Until it like, snows, or something.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 17 February, 2011, 09:16:46 am
Yay, well done Morrisette  :thumbsup: Yes it was rather foggy for me too in south London. Don't say the 'S' word again please!  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 17 February, 2011, 09:20:24 am
Quote from: Morrisette on 17 February, 2011, 09:11:50 am
Yesterday the sun was shining in my eyes as I sat on the train, saying, 'come outside, you know you want to'. I listened, and today I did the full commute for the first time in 2011.

'Course today it's foggy and cold but hey! I still feel more awake/alive than I have since Christmas... Morrisette's big commute is back, baby.

Until it like, snows, or something.  :)

\o/

It's a so much nicer way to top and tail a day than faffing about with public transport, isn't it?  It's not allowed to s-word again.  It might make me cry.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: darkpoint on 17 February, 2011, 09:37:49 am
Lost my zen like clam yesterday,  was sat in the ASL at lights when a van driver that had been safely stopped behind his line, decided that even though the lights where still red he should roll forward to be in front of me.    As he was pushing past quite close to me, i lost it and shouted at him.

I really lost it when I saw that he was also on his mobile phone.

Arg,

Still annoyed at him, and his complete disregard for my safety, and that he just thinks I was a shouty ranty cyclist who lost it and shouted at him, while he did nothing wrong.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 17 February, 2011, 09:43:07 am
Deep breaths darkpoint.  Hope you philosophical mollusc turns up again soon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 February, 2011, 10:04:20 am
In Clapham, a passat nearly pulled out of a Give Way directly in front of me (fortunately he stopped just blocking the CS, and I rode round him).

When he pulled alongside a few moments later, and I saw he was on his mobile phone (right ear, natch, which is why he nearly didn't see me (or care about me) coming from his right), I lost it and shouted to him.  He looked embarrassed, and put the phone down.

Except the next time he drew level, about five seconds later, he was using it again.  I shouted 'DONKEY!' somewhat incongruously, and to the surprise of the fixed rider to my left. :-[

Last night, I got cross with my fellow cyclists.  At one set of lights, I was the only one of about ten to stop, despite pedestrians crossing.  It happened at every one of a lot of sets of lights, and, eventually, there were too many reds for me to catch and overtake the RLJers every time :(

Then there were those riding with no lights.  I saw loads of them.  The last was on a dark, narrow and fast section of road near Mitcham Common.  As I passed him, I called out 'Get a light, you wazzock!'

Because he was a wazzock.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 17 February, 2011, 11:13:11 am
Last night, I passed a Brewery lorry parked by a pub.  Just as I came alongside, I heard a series of clanks, bangs and boings.  Then an empty keg bounced out into the road.  Thankfully, it travelled parallel to my route and not across it.

This morning, lovely commute in right up to the point where an arse in a black Rover overtook me just as we approached a corner and then had to pull in directly in front of me because of the zebra crossing on that corner.  Arse.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 17 February, 2011, 11:43:42 am
On the way back from seeing True Grit last night, bottom of Grapes Hill going straight on, I'm in the cycle lane, taxi on my right, lights change, I set off in the wrong gear, cabbie bellows, I mean SCREAMS at me

"Go on then!"

 because he wants to do an illegal left turn up Grapes Hill.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 17 February, 2011, 11:56:33 am
On the small quiet lane at the top of Culm Davey through the woods for the past couple of days there has been a piece of branch in the road, approx 18" long.  Today I thought, "I might as well chuck that off the road".  I suppose I could be following a car, not be able to see the road surface so well and forget it was there and then hit it.

I picked it up and realized it wasn't a lump of wood

It had a pinkish tinge at one end which I'd assumed to be algae or lichen but no, it was blood

The "branch" was the foreleg of a deer

Deer pieces are more common on the busier road about 200 metres further along
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 17 February, 2011, 12:26:16 pm
Back wheel stepped out alarmingly as I rounded this corner (http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=Great+Eversden,+Cambridge&aq=0&sll=53.800651,-4.064941&sspn=21.45549,57.084961&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Great+Eversden,+Cambridge,+United+Kingdom&ll=52.16851,-0.009785&spn=0.043326,0.111494&z=14&layer=c&cbll=52.168628,-0.009921&panoid=_qWtSbONqZW4A1R-z_dhtA&cbp=12,129.21,,0,13.38). Not sure if it was fuel or general farm grot, but at 30kph, it was quite a wake up. Felt lucky not to drop it, particularly as my leg has only just recovered from my last off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 17 February, 2011, 07:03:04 pm
Quote from: HTFB on 17 February, 2011, 09:06:54 am
London's got a lot easier since 1988. You just have to look out for the cyclists.
Not sure about this- been riding these city's roads week in week out since the 70's and I have a feeling that the novelty factor of lots of cyclists on the streets which seemed to heighten the car driver's perception of human powered two wheelers,  is wearing off and they are becoming a wee bit blasé.  Over the last few months or so I seem to be getting far more close passes as though drivers are thinking, "hell yeah I can drive that close and still not knock it over- I've done it plenty times before."  Back in the late 70's early 80's,  I guess I was much more noticeable on my bike , a skinny punk in ripped fishnets, DM's, t shirt and skirt held together with safety pins, chains and dog leads riding a Holdsworth in team colours.  I used to get a much wider berth.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 17 February, 2011, 07:11:29 pm
Hmmm.... I'm out tomorrow with His Leggship.

Which ought it be, ripped fishnets? Or Rapha?  :D ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 17 February, 2011, 07:20:29 pm
I had yet another fag paper close pass on the way to work this morning, video currently uploading to Youtube.

Interestingly the vehicle in question was a licenced Hackney Carriage licenced by Epsom & Ewell Council.

I will be having words.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 17 February, 2011, 07:22:06 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 17 February, 2011, 07:11:29 pm
Hmmm.... I'm out tomorrow with His Leggship.

Which ought it be, ripped fishnets? Or Rapha?  :D ;)
Ripped fishnets Jurek- you have the legs, I'm sure.  Even if you think you don't, fishnets are incredibly flattering I assure you (even ripped ones).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 17 February, 2011, 07:26:29 pm
Maybe, just maybe got the legs (on a good day).

The fishnets? Not so sure.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 17 February, 2011, 07:29:07 pm
I guess  His Leggship would be a bit surprised too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 17 February, 2011, 07:37:24 pm
Quote from: jane on 17 February, 2011, 07:29:07 pm
I guess  His Leggship would be a bit surprised too.

Yes.
That would be the elephant of surprise....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 17 February, 2011, 07:43:16 pm
Parts of this thread are useless without pictures.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 17 February, 2011, 07:46:36 pm
Just not our day today chez pdm for trouble free commuting....

On the way to work, the bearings on my right pedal departed and thereby so did the pedal from the crank. limped in to work, did a bodge and limped home this evening via the shortest route.  :sick:  Rear dérailleur also played up and stopped shifting. Had a look this evening - its defunct and had to be replaced.
Zip on overshoes also disintegrated....
pdm junior (cjm) got a loose mudguard stay tangled into his back wheel - twisted in like a piece of string and could not be removed - cue major dismantle to get it done. Its a miracle he did not come off!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 17 February, 2011, 08:44:50 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 17 February, 2011, 07:43:16 pm
Parts of this thread are useless without pictures.

We'll live
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 February, 2011, 08:47:46 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 17 February, 2011, 07:43:16 pm
Parts of this thread are useless without pictures.

Please could everybody take great care in which parts are illustrated.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 17 February, 2011, 08:48:16 pm
Quote from: Adrian on 17 February, 2011, 08:44:50 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 17 February, 2011, 07:43:16 pm
Parts of this thread are useless without pictures.

We'll live
;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 17 February, 2011, 09:21:55 pm
Walked in again today.  I saw six cars go through red traffic lights, and might have been a bit shouty with one of them.

Lovely walk back to the old man's along the river, past Rockwell Marshes and under the Five Arches.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 17 February, 2011, 09:30:27 pm
I just enjoyed the ride. Nice weather, quiet roads, and they're resurfacing the crappy bit of road over the bridge which means that temporarily I had to walk a bit round the road closure but the guys working on it were friendly and cheerful, and I had the remainder of that road to myself. Shame about the bit of the day in  the office.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 17 February, 2011, 11:09:10 pm
Quote from: Gandalf on 17 February, 2011, 07:20:29 pm
I had yet another fag paper close pass on the way to work this morning, video currently uploading to Youtube.

Interestingly the vehicle in question was a licenced Hackney Carriage licenced by Epsom & Ewell Council.

I will be having words.

I had two at lunchtime. Both caused by simple impatience. Give 'em hell.

Meanwhile on the way home I saw an ambulance and police car at a mini roundabout. Bike propped up against the hedge, didn't see the rider. Two cars stopped at the scene.

I often see shitty driving there. Once had a wvm come running out into the road to try to drag me off the bike. Fortunately he didn't appreciate how fast I can accelerate so he swung at clear air.  Hope it's not too serious, in any case. Will check the local rag (Cambridge News) tomorrow. The incident was at the junction of Green End Rd and Nuffield Rd.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 18 February, 2011, 06:00:40 am
Quote from: simonp on 17 February, 2011, 11:09:10 pm
Quote from: Gandalf on 17 February, 2011, 07:20:29 pm
I had yet another fag paper close pass on the way to work this morning, video currently uploading to Youtube.

Interestingly the vehicle in question was a licenced Hackney Carriage licenced by Epsom & Ewell Council.

I will be having words.

I had two at lunchtime. Both caused by simple impatience. Give 'em hell.

Meanwhile on the way home I saw an ambulance and police car at a mini roundabout. Bike propped up against the hedge, didn't see the rider. Two cars stopped at the scene.

I often see shitty driving there. Once had a wvm come running out into the road to try to drag me off the bike. Fortunately he didn't appreciate how fast I can accelerate so he swung at clear air.  Hope it's not too serious, in any case. Will check the local rag (Cambridge News) tomorrow. The incident was at the junction of Green End Rd and Nuffield Rd.


Here's the link

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ak5dIB7oW44 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ak5dIB7oW44)

And yes, I know I should have taken the lane more but I was about to turn left.  I find that if you are too far over to the right, incredibly you actually get muppets trying to undertake.  I don't know what it is with that particular location.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 18 February, 2011, 07:49:47 am
Run rabbit, run.  My commute includes a sharp dip down to a little valley bottom and, somewhat inevitably, a sharp climb up the other side.  Nearing the bottom this morning I noticed that I had startled a fluffy-tailed rabbit which was now running in the same direction as me on the other side of the road.  Even though my momentum meant that I caught it up on the first bit of the climb and then edged ahead, it kept on running in the same direction, alongside for a while.  It slowly overhauled me as gravity started taking its effect and eventually crossed ahead and hopped through the hedge into a field.  Why it needed to overtake, I don't know but it did give me plenty of space.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 18 February, 2011, 07:57:29 am
Quote from: Deano on 17 February, 2011, 09:21:55 pm
Walked in again today. 

I walk in every day ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 18 February, 2011, 08:36:18 am
Quote from: Gandalf on 18 February, 2011, 06:00:40 am
Quote from: simonp on 17 February, 2011, 11:09:10 pm
Quote from: Gandalf on 17 February, 2011, 07:20:29 pm
I had yet another fag paper close pass on the way to work this morning, video currently uploading to Youtube.

Interestingly the vehicle in question was a licenced Hackney Carriage licenced by Epsom & Ewell Council.

I will be having words.

I had two at lunchtime. Both caused by simple impatience. Give 'em hell.

Meanwhile on the way home I saw an ambulance and police car at a mini roundabout. Bike propped up against the hedge, didn't see the rider. Two cars stopped at the scene.

I often see shitty driving there. Once had a wvm come running out into the road to try to drag me off the bike. Fortunately he didn't appreciate how fast I can accelerate so he swung at clear air.  Hope it's not too serious, in any case. Will check the local rag (Cambridge News) tomorrow. The incident was at the junction of Green End Rd and Nuffield Rd.


Here's the link

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ak5dIB7oW44 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ak5dIB7oW44)

And yes, I know I should have taken the lane more but I was about to turn left.  I find that if you are too far over to the right, incredibly you actually get muppets trying to undertake.  I don't know what it is with that particular location.

Problem is the lane is very wide but is being treated as two by the traffic. Probably makes taking the lane harder to do in practice.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 February, 2011, 09:29:53 am
Quote from: jogler on 18 February, 2011, 07:57:29 am
Quote from: Deano on 17 February, 2011, 09:21:55 pm
Walked in again today. 

I walk in every day ;)

Only cause a wobble at the crucial moment could send you & bike clattering down the stairs.

Also, I am led to believe that there's no Sheffield stands for cycle parking at your work ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 February, 2011, 09:31:46 am
By, that were a fast one this morning.  I was expecting a crosswind, but it felt like a tailwind, though not everyone seemed to be getting the benefit ??? 

Exhilirating.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 18 February, 2011, 10:17:06 am
Quote from: Nuncio on 18 February, 2011, 07:49:47 am
Run rabbit, run.  My commute includes a sharp dip down to a little valley bottom and, somewhat inevitably, a sharp climb up the other side.  Nearing the bottom this morning I noticed that I had startled a fluffy-tailed rabbit which was now running in the same direction as me on the other side of the road.  Even though my momentum meant that I caught it up on the first bit of the climb and then edged ahead, it kept on running in the same direction, alongside for a while.  It slowly overhauled me as gravity started taking its effect and eventually crossed ahead and hopped through the hedge into a field.  Why it needed to overtake, I don't know but it did give me plenty of space.

Bloody rabbits and their close overtakes!  And then it turned left!
Time for a ranty letter to Flopsy, Mopsy and Cotton Tail

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 18 February, 2011, 10:29:34 am
Half asleep.  Grey skies.  Nippy.  But I'm onto my second site of the day, and will head off to 2 more shortly, which will hopefully wake me up.  Only 7 hours til the jollydays....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tom M on 18 February, 2011, 10:54:55 am
Saw a nice colourful woodpecker (the one with the red bit behind the head, whichever that one is), and found a little Knog front light by the roadside, fully functioning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 18 February, 2011, 11:07:30 am
Quote from: Jurek on 17 February, 2011, 07:11:29 pm
Hmmm.... I'm out tomorrow with His Leggship.

Which ought it be, ripped fishnets? Or Rapha?  :D ;)

Brief moment of total panic as my diary says that the next FNRttC is  March 18th, but just checked and it doesn't appear to be Feb 18th...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 18 February, 2011, 05:47:55 pm
Walked to work today as I had to pick up a birthday cake for Mrs G on the way home.

I actually think it did me some good as my legs were feeling very jaded.  I think walking, if you make an effort, stretches the legs a bit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 18 February, 2011, 05:54:55 pm
Because I cycled 54 miles yesterday, I'd obviously be slow.  Nope.  17m43s for the 8.49km.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 18 February, 2011, 10:30:07 pm
When I hit the rather stiff headwind I started to regret the hardback textbooks I had in my panniers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 18 February, 2011, 11:58:30 pm
Ride home 19.6 miles; windy. Went to gym.

196 miles for the week all told
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 February, 2011, 10:18:22 am
Not so much a commute last night.  I went to meet TGL before he went to his club, then rode over to where Butterfly was having an interview.  Had loads of time to kill, so I rode down to Herne Hill velodrome.  VCL were doing a turbo session in a tent, so I had a bit of a wander about.

Still plenty of time, so I rode through Dulwich and up the dreaded College Road.  Not sure it was a great idea to try it with a heavy panner on, but it was fun anyway.  Would have been faster downhill, but it's a bit dark, the road's quite rough, and the speedbumps a bit frequent :-\

Back to meet Butterfly, but she wasn't finished yet, so I did another loop.  By the time I'd got back, she'd gone to my sister's for a cup of tea.  Then we rode back over to meet TGL.  A pleasant evening's pootling. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 19 February, 2011, 11:35:12 am
Had to come in to work today.  Raining.  Unable to avoid pothole 3 minutes ride from work, instant pinch flat.  Arse.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 21 February, 2011, 08:13:42 am
Whee!  Off the calorie deficit and back to early morning starts.  7:15 is so much nicer a time to be cycling across London than 8:00.  Flew across town.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 21 February, 2011, 08:37:12 am
Very, very wet but great to be back on the bike, best make the most of it as I won't be able to cycle commute after this week
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 February, 2011, 09:13:36 am
Felt odd to be commuting on what seemed to be the oldest bike on the road by decades, but, as ever, the Galaxy amazed with its swiftness.  Fifteen speed is the way forward, I think ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 21 February, 2011, 09:23:25 am
Nice to be back on the bike this morning, and I beat the rain to the office. Having seen the forecast last night it was a race to Frimley.

I also got scalped, guy on a flat bar road bike with no luggage passed the loaded fixie on the gentle decent, I could hold his wheel at 23mph (~115rpm) but the hill is shallow enough that I am driving that cadence and I couldn't maintain it the whole of the 3 miles in to the office from there.

I just wish the office heating was working.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 21 February, 2011, 09:28:26 am
hey the schools are on half term so there is almost no traffic
bit wet though
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 21 February, 2011, 10:21:14 am
51kph through Tooting Bec this morning. The fastest this year.
For some reason, today I had LEGS!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 21 February, 2011, 10:46:03 am
Just heard that a journalist friend of mine is in ICU following an accident at the weekend.  Don't know the details yet but I hope he's going to be OK. He's got a young family.  :'(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 February, 2011, 10:47:37 am
Hope he gets well soon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 21 February, 2011, 11:04:41 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 19 February, 2011, 11:35:12 am
Had to come in to work today.  Raining.  Unable to avoid pothole 3 minutes ride from work, instant pinch flat.  Arse.


Very happy with the Halo Aerorage Track rims, though.  Front wheel was still perfectly true and there's no sign of a dent.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 21 February, 2011, 11:30:27 am
Quote from: Si_Co on 21 February, 2011, 08:37:12 am
Very, very wet but great to be back on the bike, best make the most of it as I won't be able to cycle commute after this week


'cause you will.It's only approx 66 miles each way.
MTFU ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 21 February, 2011, 11:50:06 am
Super commute yesterday, and a nice day at work.  I did get a lot of impatient and angry driving though, so a few videos of drivers' education coming up.  All fairly minor, but entirely unnecessary.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 21 February, 2011, 05:02:14 pm
Had to walk today due to sporting injury of sorts, acquired at the weekend.

What, I hear you ask was the Herculean endeavour that caused me to pull a hamstring and leave me with a very painful and stiff left bum cheek?

Ten Pin bloody Bowling!  :-[

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 21 February, 2011, 09:35:06 pm
Perhaps all you lot with LEGS had stolen mine.
I kept looking at trees, hoping there was a monster headwind.
Nope.
Homewards slightly better, mist so thick it was forming droplets.
Ho hum. Still better than the car.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 21 February, 2011, 10:01:16 pm
Very zippy commute home :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 21 February, 2011, 10:44:11 pm
WVM drove sensibly, behind me, with indicators on well in advance of the left turn.
Without all those books I felt much faster. It'd be nice to find time to ride a bit further sometime though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 22 February, 2011, 01:00:11 am
Went home the long way. Dropped in on DrMekon who was kind enough to make me a cup of tea. Had a go on his cargo trike. Fun, but scary as I was scared of tipping it. DrMekon was along for the ride as passenger which made it harder work than expected coming back up the hill.

Was freezing when I set off with painfully cold hands. But warmed up and instead of cutting my planned 30 miles extended it to almost 50 - on 500ml of energy drink and that cup of tea.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 22 February, 2011, 08:55:57 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 21 February, 2011, 09:28:26 am
hey the schools are on half term so there is almost no traffic
bit wet though

Absolutely amazing the diffence half term makes, not a single chelsea tractor on todays commute, we're going to have a whole generation that think you need an internal combustion engine to go further than the fridge.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 22 February, 2011, 09:31:35 am
Wow!  6:30am is much more fun a time to set off than 7:15 or 8. Streets almost empty and I had the chance to race northwards onto Battersea Bridge, not just off it. 

Up at 5:55, breakfast, cycle 8 miles to gym, 1 hour in weights room, cycle final half mile to work, second breakfast.  Lovely.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 22 February, 2011, 09:38:51 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 22 February, 2011, 09:31:35 am
Wow!  6:30am is much more fun a time to set off ...
That rather depends upon the time of year.  It can be a bloody miserable time to set off in late December and through January, from about now onwards tho' it's good.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tom B on 22 February, 2011, 10:05:34 am
Set off early so I'd have unrestricted use of the printer before colleagues arrived. Two front wheel p*nctures, probly snake bite... first fixed ok, second left for later, having walked the bike the last few 100 yards.
Still got in before most people and got the printing done  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jezzasnr on 22 February, 2011, 10:12:12 am
Tide in, bit of mist on the river & the Oldenburgh heading out of the estuary. Nice!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 February, 2011, 10:25:28 am
Short train assisted commute today, but at least I did get a ride.  Struggled to get my leg over the folder, but I was OK when on it (except where a car was parked directly in front of the dropped kerb access to the cycle path >:( ).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 22 February, 2011, 10:41:13 am
I was about half an hour earlier than normal setting off.  Traffic a little busier than normal; me a little slower than yesterday.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 22 February, 2011, 08:11:25 pm
 ;D  ;D  ;D

Left work feeling knackered and planned on pootling home and was taking the ride home slowly.

I was then passed by a roadie in the bottom of the dip at Bagshot, caught up to his wheel on the way up to the cricketers and followed him all the way home to Sunningdale.

Sir, I say again as I did as I turned off, "Thank you for the tow and the motivation"

Turned out to be a fairly quick ride home and I am still grinning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 22 February, 2011, 08:50:44 pm
I too was knackered. Could not resist extending the ride to 22km through.

Was tailed for the best part of a mile by someone on a Birdy or something for a while. He waited til I was disadvantaged by a steep slope and 71" on a bridge to accelerate past. Git.

The driver following us was pathetic. Kept half overtaking then giving up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 February, 2011, 09:14:29 pm
I didn't get much of a ride home.  Just most of the way up to London Bridge (couldn't remount after I'd stopped for an ATM :( ).  Then got off at Wallington to trundle home.  Part of that is a road which dips down and climbs up higher.  Despite being on the Dahon, I got enough speed up to pass a rider on a road bike on the uphill section.  Totally scalped him, in fact ;D  The expression on his face as a fat middle aged bloke on a folder overtook was priceless.  I think if I'd told him I was suffering from a dodgy hip at the time, he'd have given up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 22 February, 2011, 09:24:37 pm
The traffic lights all turned red on me. I could have done with a nice easy coast, not stop start. Ho hum.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 22 February, 2011, 11:39:10 pm
Quote from: clarion on 22 February, 2011, 09:14:29 pm
  I think if I'd told him I was suffering from a dodgy hip at the time, he'd have given up.

Or he might just have pulled down his trousers to reveal his prosthetic legs!  Glad you've still got your mojo and your sense of humour - Happy Recovery!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 23 February, 2011, 08:36:06 am
Both the men I know with prosthetic legs climb considerably better than I do :-[.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steve GT on 23 February, 2011, 08:40:34 am
Winter is back with a vengeance over here in Copenhagen. -8 deg C with an added snow storm to boot.
I was thinking of using the train to get to work, but decided not to, which was a good decision as someone decided to jump in front of a train at the station I get off at. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 23 February, 2011, 10:02:02 am
Last night, about 6pm-ish.

Lorry missing 8" of its roof concertina style just by past the low railway bridge over Grosvenor Road (the tracks that lead up to Victoria).

Lots of debris on the road but the police were there starting to clear it up.

Hehehe.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 February, 2011, 10:20:43 am
Quote from: Butterfly on 23 February, 2011, 08:36:06 am
Both the men I know with prosthetic legs climb considerably better than I do :-[.

That's not quite true for me, but one of them is certainly faster than me on the flat.  And he tours the Chilterns on a Brompton.  Reeeeeeeeespect!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 23 February, 2011, 11:14:04 am
Damp.  Reasonably quick on the bike, but seemed to catch all the traffic lights at the wrong part of the cycle.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 23 February, 2011, 11:47:13 am
Mild and calm here, but wet.  A constant light rain all the way in.  The lockers in the changing room are really wire cages over a warm pipe - full length but with a small 'footprint'.  I've just been down to give my damp clothes a turn.  It's like a very slow speed tumble.  And I've replaced, now sopping, rolled up pages of newspaper I'd stuffed into my shoes with fresh dry pages.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sigod on 23 February, 2011, 12:41:13 pm
Damp and grey. Wind low and at my back on the way in. Must try and vary my route in some as I'm starting to sleepwalk my way into work i.e. I have no real conscious memory of parts of the journey as I'm starting to do things on autopilot. That’s a bad thing isn’t it?   :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 23 February, 2011, 12:46:21 pm
Quote from: sigod on 23 February, 2011, 12:41:13 pm
Damp and grey. Wind low and at my back on the way in. Must try and vary my route in some as I'm starting to sleepwalk my way into work i.e. I have no real conscious memory of parts of the journey as I'm starting to do things on autopilot. That’s a bad thing isn’t it?   :-\

I hope not I spend most of life this way
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 23 February, 2011, 06:15:33 pm
TC: Stuck in the 7th hell of the eternal headwind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 23 February, 2011, 07:47:14 pm
Almost got doored today by a man driving a Bentley.  I had the Burley D'Lite trailer, using it as a stroller, and was walking down the high street on the pavement.  IAM member too, the driver, so he instantly realised what he'd done.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 23 February, 2011, 08:08:08 pm
Quote from: tonycollinet on 23 February, 2011, 06:15:33 pm
TC: Stuck in the 7th hell of the eternal headwind.

Southerly wind this morning + commute direction to SE = headwind.
Westerly wind this evening + commute direction to NW = headwind.   :P

Together with the mist and drizzle, this made it 15 minutes slower than yesterday when it was a still air trip both ways...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pippa on 23 February, 2011, 08:10:41 pm
I got my first commuting puncture. Which isn't bad for a year. Only about 500m from the office so I pushed the bike the rest of the way. I fixed it in the warm and comfort of my office with colleagues looking on telling me how complicated it looked  ::-) At least I have now justified having a track pump in the office for such occasions  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: recumbentim on 23 February, 2011, 08:13:37 pm
Wow I think I had 7 degrees in the PM  on my commute today. I recon thats a first scince mid November up here.
Didn,t commute when its to cold, to wet, to snowy , to black icey.
Roll on the spring?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dinamo on 24 February, 2011, 07:08:55 am
Quote from: sigod on 23 February, 2011, 12:41:13 pm
Must try and vary my route in some as I'm starting to sleepwalk my way into work i.e. I have no real conscious memory of parts of the journey as I'm starting to do things on autopilot. That’s a bad thing isn’t it?   :-\
+1
Good ride in today although into quite a brisk headwind !
9 degrees @ 05:00 !!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 24 February, 2011, 07:56:49 am
Spring seems to have got as far north as Glos.  Heard the first lambs of the year out by Poulton Fields this morning, still a bit too dark to see them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 24 February, 2011, 08:27:17 am
Last one till we move house but a fantastic ride in - gonna miss it
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 24 February, 2011, 09:08:27 am
I finished work early on time yesterday, so I thought I'd do a mini Youtube project.  I took a little detour and actually used  the off-road farcility to get home.  This was filmed at about 16.00 before it got busy.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=whAaVm-oZ6Q (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=whAaVm-oZ6Q)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 24 February, 2011, 09:22:37 am
Another 6:30 start this morning.  You do see some odd sights at that hour.  I arrived at the gates of Palace Green at the same time as the gate guard, who was also on a bike :)  And cycling up Portobello Road, I was confronted by a slow-moving phalanx of street cleaners who had just emerged from their depot.

Nice and warm, isn't it?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 24 February, 2011, 09:30:10 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 24 February, 2011, 09:22:37 am
Another 6:30 start this morning.  You do see some odd sights at that hour.  I arrived at the gates of Palace Green at the same time as the gate guard, who was also on a bike :)  And cycling up Portobello Road, I was confronted by a slow-moving phalanx of street cleaners who had just emerged from their depot.

Nice and warm, isn't it?


I was too warm in my jacket and gloves, they say the temperatures are above average for this time of year  :thumbsup:

Prat of the morning commute was a Latino chap going happily through red lights whilst talking into his mobile phone. Newbies on Boris Bikes looked incredulously on as he negotiated his way through a further set of red lights around Cannon Street  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 24 February, 2011, 09:57:32 am
Well the weather was great but my legs were not. 
I was obviously feeling the lumpy 45 miles yesterday morning in ~3hours 5min in the rain and head wind. I actually had to stop when climbing out of Bagshot and then to get fluids and glucose at a petrol station.
Oh, to be back on the Van Nic with 30 gears rather than the loaded commuter fixie.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 24 February, 2011, 11:03:48 am
I rode down to the station with TGL this morning, which was nice :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 24 February, 2011, 12:30:39 pm
Only three people tried to kill or injure me on the way in this morning. 

One pedestrian walked out in front of me in Brockley, closely followed by a driver of a big 4x4 who started turning right at high speed from southbound traffic before looking to see if there was anyone coming up the northbound side of the road, and had to skid to an alarming halt when he finally bothered to look and saw me, and then a cyclist who darted from the left lane to the middle lane I was riding in, just as I was about to hurtle down a gap; I discovered to my relief that there was just enough room for both of us, despite his panicky wobbling when he realised what he had done, but we were close enough for bars to clash and for me to give him a bit of stick for being a prize prannet. 

And then I was too warm and I had to take my jacket off, which was nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 24 February, 2011, 01:12:05 pm
My Pompino's brakes are good.  Only because I replaced the levers and brakes. :)

Google Maps (http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=cambridge&aq=&sll=53.800651,-4.064941&sspn=20.857001,67.631836&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Cambridge,+United+Kingdom&ll=52.20749,0.145569&spn=0.001315,0.004128&z=19&layer=c&cbll=52.207677,0.14529&panoid=fqMr-iTa3rI8xQidQZMySw&cbp=12,230.32,,0,23.42)

Coming off the Bridge at 20+mph (to the left), trying to see if I can make it across the roundabout without losing too much momentum.  No cars coming from the right, check.  Cars coming the other way going straight on are preventing it.  Black BMW turns right on the roundabout without indicating, I knew they were turning right by their position, but they were going I bit faster than would have allowed me to get out, so I end up stopping very rapidly.  20+mph to 0 mph in not very long, I stopped about 2 feet short of the line having been well past the ped crossing when I decided I had to stop.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Rimnod on 24 February, 2011, 04:38:17 pm
I lost my new (had it 2 days) Smart 2 rear light. :'(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MartinGT on 24 February, 2011, 04:49:43 pm
Hey all *waves* first time here and on the thread :)

My commute was nice, nice warm weather and stress free, until about 50 yds from work whilst over taking a parked van a women decided it was ok to pass within an inch of me :(

Anyways, looking forward to the commute home, again no arm/leg warmers  8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 24 February, 2011, 05:29:16 pm
Quote from: MartinGT on 24 February, 2011, 04:49:43 pm
Hey all *waves* first time here and on the thread :)

Does the GT in your username stand for Gin and Tonic or the car you leave in the garage when you cycle in?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MartinGT on 24 February, 2011, 06:27:28 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 24 February, 2011, 05:29:16 pm
Quote from: MartinGT on 24 February, 2011, 04:49:43 pm
Hey all *waves* first time here and on the thread :)

Does the GT in your username stand for Gin and Tonic or the car you leave in the garage when you cycle in?

;D

No, its an old nickname thats stuck, its for (excuse the language) Ginger Tosser  :)

Well, my commute home was v nice, apart from a young women who decided it was good to speed out in front of me on the roundabout.  She must have thought she was quicker, but I was alert.

Man, dont you love the cycle commute?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 24 February, 2011, 06:39:05 pm
Quote from: clarion on 23 February, 2011, 10:20:43 am
And he tours the Chilterns on a Brompton.  Reeeeeeeeespect!
Kevin? He gets everywhere ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andygates on 24 February, 2011, 06:45:33 pm
It's one of those special times of year when you can race the dark.  Mornings are bright, and evenings start bright and... are just about bright enough... if you push it.  RAWR! 8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 24 February, 2011, 07:46:20 pm
spent part of the ride home as wingman to a POBSO with no lights at gone 7pm.

Otherwise a great ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MartinGT on 24 February, 2011, 08:12:19 pm
Quote from: matthew on 24 February, 2011, 07:46:20 pm
spent part of the ride home as wingman to a POBSO with no lights at gone 7pm.

Otherwise a great ride.

A POBSO?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 24 February, 2011, 08:19:28 pm
Pedestrian On Bicycle Shaped Object
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MartinGT on 24 February, 2011, 08:24:38 pm
Quote from: jogler on 24 February, 2011, 08:19:28 pm
Pedestrian On Bicycle Shaped Object
;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smurphboy on 24 February, 2011, 09:16:38 pm
I think I'm cursed. Front wheel puncture (slow - caused by nasty piece of flint in front tyre) last night. Rear wheel puncture tonight (fast, dramatic and caused by a metal staple).

Having said that - both morning commutes were my fastest of the year to date. I love half-term - no cars, no kids, no stress.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sigod on 24 February, 2011, 09:51:16 pm
Quote from: andygates on 24 February, 2011, 06:45:33 pm
It's one of those special times of year when you can race the dark.  Mornings are bright, and evenings start bright and... are just about bright enough... if you push it.  RAWR! 8)
Nice to know that I'm not alone in doing that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 24 February, 2011, 09:58:20 pm
Journey home was done sans gloves - I almost dared to bare the legs but no. Still, it was fast and good and numerous (expensive) cars shoved past only to be passed and where poss. primary position taken up ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 24 February, 2011, 10:28:15 pm
I rode the bit from East Croydon without gloves, and it was very nice.

I was also much faster than last night :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 24 February, 2011, 10:47:49 pm
Lovely commute, lovely drivers.  Sadly one serious crash right by the Hurricane and Spitfire models at Biggin Hill airport, but that was over long before I got there.

Oh, and the stress over #madarsonwoman is down a bit again as she is back in jail today (been trying to set fire to our flats, repeatedly).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 24 February, 2011, 11:08:18 pm
Went to B&Q for plumbing and electrical supplies. Limited to what would fit in my laptop messenger bag.

On the way home I saw there'd been an RTI at the Barnwell Road/Newmarket Rd junction on the eastbound exit of the roundabout. 2-3 cars one of them sideways blocking Newmarket Rd. Ambulance already there and police arriving. I thought about going past on Newmarket Rd but was not sure about it so diverted down Barnwell Rd. Not sure there is anything in it. Might even be shorter.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MartinGT on 25 February, 2011, 07:59:48 am
Another brilliant morning, nice sunrise with an orange sky and a nice warmness in the air.  Commute was a fast one as there was hardly any traffic and the lights seemed to go green for me :)

Have a good day all  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 25 February, 2011, 09:31:02 am
Good pace into work this morning: another female cyclist passed me at Deptford but typically after 5 minutes they tend to slow down and don't have 'incline legs' so passed her a mile later and got into a nice pace with another chap. Unfortunately from the go at traffic lights this chap has not lowered his gears sufficiently and has a moment trying to clip himself in as well, this happened on 3 occasions  :( No matter, got into work in high spirits and am getting my London Bridge legs back  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 25 February, 2011, 09:40:42 am
Sometimes, going over Battersea Bridge, I find myself trapped behind a slow cyclist (sometimes as part of a train of fellow prisoners), somebody who feels the need to spin slowly over that very modest rise in their lowest gear.  This morning, the person in front of me on the slow train was a girl with long ginger hair in very stylish work clothes, including a short tweed skirt, split at the back, and knee-length red leather boots, riding a cream road bike with some elan (where possible in the restricted conditions).  Probably the most elegant fellow commuter I've seen in the last year.  Oh, and she was riding in the drops, which, well, did things to the outfit described above.  Seemed a shame to overtake when we reached the far side, but I don't really do slow cycling.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MartinGT on 25 February, 2011, 09:44:36 am
Hehe itsbruce, thats painted a nice picture for me :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 February, 2011, 10:00:52 am
I got a proper commute today.  I wasn't expecting much, but it was pretty fast for me, and I was pretty proud of myself (and pleased to be back on the fixed).

Chest hurts quite bad now, though.  I sneezed & coughed a bit ago, and it's agony.  Hip's just stiff getting on & off, but, so long as I don't push the souplesse, it's working well enough for fixed.

Wonderful morning :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 25 February, 2011, 10:24:01 am
Working from home today. About to start work in 6 minutes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 25 February, 2011, 10:59:44 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 25 February, 2011, 09:40:42 am
Sometimes, going over Battersea Bridge, I find myself trapped behind a slow cyclist (sometimes as part of a train of fellow prisoners), somebody who feels the need to spin slowly over that very modest rise in their lowest gear.  This morning, the person in front of me on the slow train was a girl with long ginger hair in very stylish work clothes, including a short tweed skirt, split at the back, and knee-length red leather boots, riding a cream road bike with some elan (where possible in the restricted conditions).  Probably the most elegant fellow commuter I've seen in the last year.  Oh, and she was riding in the drops, which, well, did things to the outfit described above.  Seemed a shame to overtake when we reached the far side, but I don't really do slow cycling.


This is where 'a picture is worth 1,000 words'
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 25 February, 2011, 11:01:24 am
Yeah, where is the camera footage?   ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Rimnod on 25 February, 2011, 12:29:54 pm
<grump> Royal visit in St Andrews.  No more to be said on the matter</grump>
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sigod on 25 February, 2011, 03:11:26 pm
One of those mornings where I found my legs had absolutely no power in them at all (no matter how much I tucked my knees in). I pootled along feeling grumpy as I was passed by the world and his wife.

I might have a cold....yes that's it. I'll use that as my excuse!

One wonders what delights in the effort department I'll receive on the return leg tonight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 25 February, 2011, 04:26:28 pm
Do you have return-specific legs? :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sigod on 25 February, 2011, 04:53:45 pm
 :) Now that is a question which is going to fester in my mind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: n0seblunt on 25 February, 2011, 10:38:06 pm
Ran my commute today. To be honest, it's far less stressful pounding the pavements than it is on the roads. If only my legs weren't so ruined afterwards....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Androcles on 26 February, 2011, 12:12:41 am
Only my second commute this year.  Fairly steady ride in against the breeze and a lovely ride back with said breeze at my back.  Usually takes a bit longer to get back due to elevation difference but today I was 3 mins faster on the return.  For the first time this year I felt as if I'm getting a bit faster, in fact I was going at my usual summer commute speed rather than what I expect in February.

Just need to get my head around the early start and do it more regularly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 28 February, 2011, 08:20:44 am
After last week's gloomy conditions, I was pleasantly surprised to see how light it was by 6:30 this morning.  BST (battery saving time) will be with us soon (for a while, before BST comes in).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MartinGT on 28 February, 2011, 08:55:04 am
Nice commute this morning, not too much traffic, although did notice when I got to work my rear light had died :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 28 February, 2011, 11:31:06 am
Not a great commute.  Pain's had a bit of a resurgence.  Drivers were completely insane ( I had two left hooks on consecutive junctions ::-) as well as an abusive bus driver, and an M&S artic driver who thought he was on a bike, so made use of the CSH and the ASL >:( ).

Oh, and the roads were crammed with barely-moving motor vehicles.  This city is FULL!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 28 February, 2011, 11:45:30 am
28 minutes!

Towing a trailer. 71". Headwind. Long route. Tired legs. Hadn't locked front door; went back after 1 minute to check.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 28 February, 2011, 12:51:08 pm
First commute in the dark with a new Smart 6000 candle power front light, a car swooped past and overtook just before a red, then edged forwards because the light was flashing and illuminating the inside of the car like a provincial disco.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 28 February, 2011, 03:14:32 pm
First commute out on the temporary replacement bike. Man its heavy and its weird to be sat upright, but I think I am going to be burning more calories with this bike  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 28 February, 2011, 05:18:15 pm
Quote from: Nuncio on 28 February, 2011, 08:20:44 am
BST (battery saving time) will be with us soon (for a while, before BST comes in).

I was looking forward to BST until I remembered that it makes mornings darker again for a while. I'm really not keen on this proposal to shunt the clocks forward permanently. I find it really hard to get out of bed in winter as it is.

Anyway, it is noticeably lighter in the mornings now, to the extent that I'm even considering starting up my longer commute ride again.  :thumbsup:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 28 February, 2011, 06:13:33 pm
Had some stressy mare giving it the horn on the way home.  My crime was to hold primary for a few seconds as there was a parked car just ahead.  

Naturally I caught up with her a few seconds later and I had to wait for her to turn right onto the main road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MartinGT on 28 February, 2011, 08:39:14 pm
Quote from: Gandalf on 28 February, 2011, 06:13:33 pm
Had some stressy mare giving it the horn on the way home.  My crime was to hold primary for a few seconds as their was a parked car just ahead. 

Naturally I caught up with her a few seconds later and I had to wait for her to turn right onto the main road.

Numpties drivers like that.  I had an old dear once beeping her horn whilst I was passing under a viaduct.  The viaduct caused the roads to squeeze in and to stop people in motors squeeze past me I always went into the middle.  She was blasting, shouting at me, calling me a lunatic etc, then the mad bitch tried ramming me off the road!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 28 February, 2011, 09:00:33 pm
Had a very fast return home tonight.  Can't claim any credit for it - just had a bit of a tailwind.

Lots of people sat in boxes in a row all the way through Tooting.  Commuting FAIL.

This morning's abusive bus driver has been complained about to TfL.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MartinGT on 01 March, 2011, 08:40:01 am
Hmmm made a couple of mistakes this morning  :hand:

First one was coming upto a mini roundabout, car coming from my right, he was set up as if he was going left so I entered the roundabout, slow though and he wasnt pleased.  There was no way I was going to hit him, or he hit me, loads of room like, just a genuine mistake from me.  I apologised and when we came to the next mini one there was a queue of traffic.  So, went to his window.  I knocked on it he wound window down and I apologised and explained.  He seemed ok about it, didnt hurl any abuse at me.  I felt a right tit though.

Second one was, car turning right so blocking the road and another car went to undertake it, but I was already going past, the car had to stop.  I should have really hung back but for a split second I switched off.  Although, thinking about it now.  I didnt have to.

Nice sunrise though :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 01 March, 2011, 08:41:34 am
Nice one Martin!  That kind of thing is really excellent behaviour, something I try to emulate.

@Clarion well done for taking the effort to report that bus driver.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pippa on 01 March, 2011, 08:46:49 am
It was getting light as I arrived at the office. Which was nice. Makes a change from what has been feeling like perpetual darkness.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MartinGT on 01 March, 2011, 08:47:46 am
Quote from: Wendy on 01 March, 2011, 08:41:34 am
Nice one Martin!  That kind of thing is really excellent behaviour, something I try to emulate.

@Clarion well done for taking the effort to report that bus driver.

Cheers Wendy  :D

Its hard enough getting drivers to like us so thought I would try and make amends, he was cool about it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 01 March, 2011, 08:55:15 am
I had a very odd (for me) commute this morning: I rode my folder to the station, caught the "overground" to Shoreditch and then pottled along the Hipster Spice Route to Holborn, relishing the opportunities to freewheel and take it easy.  The bike is now snuggled up next to the PC under my desk ready for this evening's excursion down to Victoria and from there to the depths of Wallington.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 01 March, 2011, 09:22:57 am
Cold start to March.  In like a lion, out like a lamb I hope :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 March, 2011, 09:42:36 am
Not a bad commute this morning.  I'd like to sort out the bottom gear on my S3X, but it was Ok anyway.  Bit of a headwind, some pain from my hip & chest, and a lot lot LOT of traffic on the roads.  Gridlocked in places.  Absolutely bonkers.

Though the day was improved when I had cause to knock on another bus driver's window because he'd pulled in too shrply on me to get inside a central pedestrian refuge straight after soem roadworks on the left I was overtaking.  I said my piece, then realised that he was apologising and promising never to do it again.  I apologised to him for ranting, but explained that it was very scary.  He said he realised that and apologised again.  I thanked him for his attitude,a nd we both went on our way, wiser.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MartinGT on 01 March, 2011, 09:52:50 am
Quote from: clarion on 01 March, 2011, 09:42:36 am
Not a bad commute this morning.  I'd like to sort out the bottom gear on my S3X, but it was Ok anyway.  Bit of a headwind, some pain from my hip & chest, and a lot lot LOT of traffic on the roads.  Gridlocked in places.  Absolutely bonkers.

Though the day was improved when I had cause to knock on another bus driver's window because he'd pulled in too shrply on me to get inside a central pedestrian refuge straight after soem roadworks on the left I was overtaking.  I said my piece, then realised that he was apologising and promising never to do it again.  I apologised to him for ranting, but explained that it was very scary.  He said he realised that and apologised again.  I thanked him for his attitude,a nd we both went on our way, wiser.

Ah thats good, someone who apologised, very rare today.

Its great weather here and usually that means a dip in the traffic on the roads, although, it usually takes a few days of decent weather for that to happen.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 01 March, 2011, 10:07:58 am
Yesterday was my first bike commute in nearly 3 weeks, following a mild chest infection. It's the massive downside of having a long commute - it only takes a minor injury or infection to stop me riding.

Man, I was tired when I got home. Felt slow, but only took 5min longer than normal. Dunno if is the aftereffects of the virus or the 3 week layoff, but that felt really hard.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 01 March, 2011, 10:13:09 am
Set off at 6:45 this morning, in short sleeves just to dare the weather.  Only one other cyclist at Stockwell this morning; as he was going my way and decided to do the whole tossing-the-bars-from-side-to-side-while-standing-out-of-the-saddle thing as he accelerated not very efficiently, I left him faaaaar behind.  He was visibly suprised, given that I was in work clothes with a huge pack on my back.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 01 March, 2011, 12:39:44 pm
Quote from: vorsprung on 01 March, 2011, 09:22:57 am
Cold start to March.  In like a lion, out like a lamb I hope :thumbsup:

In like a lion who's been on the baked beans - very windy this morning, on both legs of my journey (ie either side of the train ride), and all in an againsterly direction. Hard work.  :P

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 01 March, 2011, 01:33:12 pm
Felt like hard work and then I looked at the time it was taking  :thumbsup:

One moment of concern when the vehicle joining from the minor road to my left here (http://www.google.co.uk/maps?q=51.375156,-0.675144&num=1&sll=51.364643,-0.65432&sspn=0.05575,0.128059&ie=UTF8&ll=51.375836,-0.675069&spn=0,0.003439&t=h&z=18&layer=c&cbll=51.375144,-0.674983&cbp=12,209.50032401012635,,0,5) slowed in the acceleration lane until I was just ahead and then kept pace with me.
Madam either boot it and accelerate away past my left side (I have moved wide to give you space to do it) or stop. I am doing 20mph and 100rpm fixed and don't have much head room to accelerate out of your way. I also want to get to the cycle lane ahead.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 01 March, 2011, 01:34:28 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 01 March, 2011, 12:39:44 pm
Quote from: vorsprung on 01 March, 2011, 09:22:57 am
Cold start to March.  In like a lion, out like a lamb I hope :thumbsup:
all in an againsterly direction.

I had that too.  Usually on the final bit of my commute I assume the road doubles back as the wind is normally the other way.  But today it was headwind all the way somehow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MartinGT on 01 March, 2011, 03:41:44 pm
The weather outside is making me itch to get out on the bike and get home :) Think ill be extending the ride home by several K's tonight :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adam on 02 March, 2011, 08:00:34 am
On my ride home last night, I picked up a bungie cord lying on the road.  That's the third one in about 6 months.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MartinGT on 02 March, 2011, 08:19:44 am
Had to drive in as I am off to see the chiropractor straight after work.  I miss it when I cant come in on the bike :(

BUT

Got new club kit last night and its lush  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 02 March, 2011, 08:45:57 am
Nearly had an "off" this morning.
Coming down a hill. Blind corner. 30mph limit. Going at 30. Little red Ka overtakes, brakes and pulls in on the corner. Cue wild braking and slewing on my part accompanied by expletives.
Ka stopped at traffic lights 150 yards down the road.. Winds window down and starts mouthing at me for "being in the road" and repeating (almost verbatim) Jeremy Clarkson's "you deserve it" tirade from the last Toss Gear.
Stupid B***h.
Spent the next 10 minutes overtaking here periodically before leaving her for dust in a longer queue...
Grrrr.
Calm now that the endorphins have kicked in....  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cpjmathieson on 02 March, 2011, 09:12:42 am
Quote from: clarion on 28 February, 2011, 09:00:33 pm
Had a very fast return home tonight.  Can't claim any credit for it - just had a bit of a tailwind.

Lots of people sat in boxes in a row all the way through Tooting.  Commuting FAIL.

This morning's abusive bus driver has been complained about to TfL.

Good on you, I complained to Tfl last month about a bus that overtook me only to cut back in front to get round a width restriction and then stop 50 yards up at a stop! Got a reply back, driver spoken to and being kept a eye on. Think it helps, if they get enough complaints maybe they'll lose their jobs. Harsh I know but it may save someone's life!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 March, 2011, 09:47:37 am
I had cause to speak to another bus driver this morning.  He had a go at killing three of us in one go.  Attracted by the sound of the argument, a Police Constable (on foot! :o ) came across and made it clear that he didn't think highly of the behaviour of the driver.  He sounded rather disappointed that he hadn't seen the incident, which would have let him step in and arrest. :(

Sadly, the other cyclists had departed, but a passenger had complained as well, and the PC said there were lots of CCTV cameras along there (Stockwell).  I left my details with the PC and hope he follows up.  I'll be hitting the TfL website & Roadsafe London to report.

What on earth is going on?  I know the traffic is much worse than 'normal', and frustration levels must be high, but this kind of thing is insane.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 02 March, 2011, 09:49:21 am
Nice work guys!!  It's being the squeeky wheel that has made such a difference over the last 5 years or more to bus driver quality.

Here's another one, not me I hasten to add:

    YouTube
        - LJ03 MYP Must get in front
   (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ga1niFqRo64)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 02 March, 2011, 10:00:59 am
Quote from: clarion on 02 March, 2011, 09:47:37 am
I had cause to speak to another bus driver this morning.  He had a go at killing three of us in one go.  Attracted by the sound of the argument, a Police Constable (on foot! :o ) came across and made it clear that he didn't think highly of the behaviour of the driver.  He sounded rather disappointed that he hadn't seen the incident, which would have let him step in and arrest. :(

Sadly, the other cyclists had departed, but a passenger had complained as well, and the PC said there were lots of CCTV cameras along there (Stockwell).  I left my details with the PC and hope he follows up.  I'll be hitting the TfL website & Roadsafe London to report.

What on earth is going on?  I know the traffic is much worse than 'normal', and frustration levels must be high, but this kind of thing is insane.

It's good that you had witnesses Clarion - best of luck with it  :thumbsup:

Last night I was cycling along Lewisham High Street (2 lanes) and a bus decided he wanted to suddenly pull into the lane right into the spot where I was, um, cycling. My frst thought was, 'is this the knight bus from harry potter where he can make the bus thinner meaning we can both share the lane' and then the second thought was 'scream like a bastard' which I did, and then he stopped, and bless him, he let me through  ::-)

This morning was very uneventful but by God my thighs are getting a workout from this Decathlon bike and she is bloody comfortable to ride on  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MartinGT on 02 March, 2011, 10:44:35 am
Clarion, the problem is the media (i.e the Doncaster Toss Bag Clarkson) are now giving dumb ass drivers an idea to have a go :(

@pdm, incidents like that certainly get the adrenalin going and you have to certainly have control so you dont have an accident!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 02 March, 2011, 12:26:10 pm
This morning, as I turned into the south end of Palace Green, there was a car in front of me at the gate.  The bar was raised to let him in and I followed behind (the gate guards are cool with this; if I don't do it, they leave the bar open till I do).  As the bollards on the other side of the gate were retracted, the car moved on and I prepared to follow, I realised that one of the plain-clothes security goons from the Israeli embassy was watching me.  Nervously.  With his hands hovering (twitching) near locations in his clothing from which he might withdraw a radio or a gun (and since he had an ear-piece, it probably wouldn't have been a radio).  Seems he had been panicked by my entrance behind the car and thought I was up to no good.  Ho hum.

Two of the entrance gates on that road are labelled 15 A.  Must be a bloody big main house if that's the bedsit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 02 March, 2011, 01:01:51 pm
Quote from: pdm on 02 March, 2011, 08:45:57 am
Nearly had an "off" this morning.
Coming down a hill. Blind corner. 30mph limit. Going at 30. Little red Ka overtakes, brakes and pulls in on the corner. Cue wild braking and slewing on my part accompanied by expletives.
Ka stopped at traffic lights 150 yards down the road.. Winds window down and starts mouthing at me for "being in the road" and repeating (almost verbatim) Jeremy Clarkson's "you deserve it" tirade from the last Toss Gear.
Stupid B***h.
Spent the next 10 minutes overtaking here periodically before leaving her for dust in a longer queue...
Grrrr.
Calm now that the endorphins have kicked in....  :)

I'm going to suggest you sent this post verbatim, to the top gear producers - just to let them know how thier garbage DOES influence drivers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 March, 2011, 03:35:14 pm
Quote from: clarion on 02 March, 2011, 09:47:37 am
I had cause to speak to another bus driver this morning.  He had a go at killing three of us in one go.  ...  I'll be hitting the TfL website & Roadsafe London to report.

Both alerted.  Let's see if anything comes of it.

But the other cyclist witnesses - WTF?  You in too much of a rush to grass up the guy who just tried to maim you to the Police?  You running drugs or summat?  This is a golden opportunity to deal with a very dangerous man.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MartinGT on 02 March, 2011, 04:17:08 pm
Quote from: clarion on 02 March, 2011, 03:35:14 pm
Quote from: clarion on 02 March, 2011, 09:47:37 am
I had cause to speak to another bus driver this morning.  He had a go at killing three of us in one go.  ...  I'll be hitting the TfL website & Roadsafe London to report.

Both alerted.  Let's see if anything comes of it.

But the other cyclist witnesses - WTF?  You in too much of a rush to grass up the guy who just tried to maim you to the Police?  You running drugs or summat?  This is a golden opportunity to deal with a very dangerous man.
[/quote
Scared of doing the right things i would assume.  First to shout out and moan, but when it comes to the crunch they run scared.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 02 March, 2011, 04:40:09 pm
All of which reminds me to chase up Reigate & Banstead regarding the homicidal Hackney cab driver last week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 02 March, 2011, 04:44:21 pm
I had a van pass me very close this morning. And the fact that it was on a wide road with nothing coming the other way means I have to assume he did it deliberately. Either that or he wasn't looking where he was going (probably too busy texting or something).

No prizes for guessing which London firm's name was emblazoned on the side of the van.

 >:(

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 March, 2011, 04:46:18 pm
It's tedious making these reports.  I see at least one vehicle per commute I feel I ought to report to RSL and/or their head office, and frequently one (or more) who deserve closer attention yet.  But I rarely stop to take the details and make a report. :( :-[

And the same is true of potholes.  When I still had access to my PC, I was trying to remember one pothole a ride to report, but it took time, and, again, I'd forget.  And now, with the laptop I'm using at home, and the lack of time I have each evening, I'm not keeping it up.

Besides, there is one section of road that's been broken up for months, which was reported to Fillthathole (not by me), and the council said they'd fixed, when they hadn't.  I re-reported it, but there's been no action.  I should take my responsibilities as a citizen more seriously.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 02 March, 2011, 06:37:20 pm
Today was my first TCR day of 2011 -  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: FatBloke on 02 March, 2011, 06:43:56 pm
On the commute today I was shouted at by a very fat woman who was allowing her much fatter son, (about 7-8 years old and probably approaching 15 stone) to waddle in the cycle lane. All I did was brake. Mind you, my front brake is a bit squeally!!   :demon: ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 02 March, 2011, 06:49:24 pm
My nostrils were assailed by a familiar fragrance. Familiar, yet half forgotten. What is this, where and when had I smelt it before?

Glory be. Some keen blighter has only been and cut their grass!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 02 March, 2011, 07:02:00 pm
Rode home with no lights on today, it was actually bright enough for my prescription cycling glasses to darken.  From nerdy welding goggles to Roy Orbison in one fell swoop.

The only thing that spoilt it was the little bleeder of a Jack Russel who tried to mount a suicide attack.  Little sod.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MartinGT on 02 March, 2011, 08:21:30 pm
Quote from: boab on 02 March, 2011, 06:49:24 pm
My nostrils were assailed by a familiar fragrance. Familiar, yet half forgotten. What is this, where and when had I smelt it before?

Glory be. Some keen blighter has only been and cut their grass!

 ;D I smelt that too, albeit through the car window :(  Cant wait to get back on the bike in the morning :)  One day off the bike and I was twitching to get back on it :)


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MartinGT on 03 March, 2011, 08:51:24 am
Bit of a frost this morning and a bit foggy.  Still nice commute in :)

Started to slow down as traffic got heavier at the usual spots and a numpty who had already jumped two red lights passed me with a look of disgust on his face. 

Anyways, he stopped at the next set of lights as its a major crossing, so when lights went to green I left him standing with his shitty Leeds Utd football socks and crap calf tattoo (thats a tattoo on his calf not a tat of a calf)

One old guy did try and pull out on a line of 3 of us and he was bashing his steering wheel when he couldnt, the thing is, if I saw the opportunity for him to pull out into traffic safely I would have let him, but all he was going to do was pull out and block the cycle lane as he couldnt move into traffic as it was stationary.

There are some odd people out there!

Anyways, have a good day all  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 March, 2011, 09:23:03 am
Quote from: clarion on 01 March, 2011, 09:42:36 am
Not a bad commute this morning.  I'd like to sort out the bottom gear on my S3X, but it was Ok anyway.  Bit of a headwind, some pain from my hip & chest, and a lot lot LOT of traffic on the roads.  Gridlocked in places.  Absolutely bonkers.


This.  Again.  Gusty headwind this morning, and painful twinges in what I call euphemistically my hip every time I was starting off.  Which is quite a lot on my route :(

That's just about a straight week of direct headwind in the mornings.  Still, I suppose it's better than having to batter into a wind to get home after work.  Which is the prevailing option :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 03 March, 2011, 09:37:55 am
Last night was pulling into one of the stops around Jamaica Road where this chap narrowly passed me on his bike. Not that much of a problem, except where the female cyclist he was with tried to get past me just as the lights were changing. I curtly informed her that it had gone to green and started off. In the meantime her male companion who had whizzed ahead of me was slowing slowing down right at a pinch point near Bermondsey Station where there is still at 7.30 at night a lot of traffic. He is obviously 'waiting' for his friend. I passed him, and then a few moments later they had both edged past me again  >:( I got to the next set of traffic lights and explained to him that it was not the best strategy to pass me at close traffic and also for him to slow down and wait for someone at a point in the road where there was an awful lot of traffic. He did not understand this.  >:( It's very frustrating: there were two chaps who who were also cycling with each other but they were not doing this pointless stopping and waiting business.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: darkpoint on 03 March, 2011, 10:07:34 am
puncture this morning, which was frustrating.  i was then struck by a huge lump of ineptitude as i fixed it.

It was the rear wheel of my Witcomb track bike, so my first faf was removing the wheel.  quickly followed by failing to find the hole in the old tube, so i couldn't be sure that I had removed the cause.
then the new tyre didn't want to go back on the rim, and then I just couldn't get the chain tension anywhere near right.

So all in all it took about 20 minutes, because i was cold and my hands didn't want to work properly, which in turn made me colder.. and generally more frustrated.  Which wasn't helping.

And to top it off, no one out of the lots and lots of cyclists that past me in that time asked if i was ok..  :-(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 03 March, 2011, 10:30:21 am
That is very annoying Darkpoint
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Rimnod on 03 March, 2011, 10:34:31 am
Going home last night I took the exceptionally rare opportunity to knock on the passenger’s side window of silver Subaru Impreza as he squeezed past me, causing traffic coming in the other direction to take avoiding action by slowing down and mount the grass verge.  No reason for the overtake apart from impatience; rural road, straight for about 3 miles, just oncoming traffic and me (riding at 17mph) to slow his progress.

Thought no more of it until this morning when the driver of the same car raced up behind me, gunning his engine and sounding his horn, made a very close pass and then left me under no illusion of what he thought of me using non-verbal communication.  No reaction from me because to be honest I'm not easily intimidated by a testosterone fuelled display of annoyance by  a middle aged man who has a small penis.

Again this happened on the straight part of a rural road except this time there was no other traffic to hinder his progress.  No doubt I will be experiencing a close encounter of the third kind on the way home tonight.

Time to get the helmet-cam out again me thinks.  
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MartinGT on 03 March, 2011, 10:41:15 am
Quote from: Rimnod on 03 March, 2011, 10:34:31 am
Going home last night I took the exceptionally rare opportunity to knock on the passenger’s side window of silver Subaru Impreza as he squeezed past me, causing traffic coming in the other direction to take avoiding action by slowing down and mount the grass verge.  No reason for the overtake apart from impatience; rural road, straight for about 3 miles, just oncoming traffic and me (riding at 17mph) to slow his progress.

Thought no more of it until this morning when the driver of the same car raced up behind me, gunning his engine and sounding his horn, made a very close pass and then left me under no illusion of what he thought of me using non-verbal communication.  Again this happened on the straight part of a rural road except this time there was no other traffic to hinder his progress.  No doubt I will be experiencing a close encounter of the third kind on the way home tonight.

Time to get the helmet-cam out again me thinks.  


Reg plate?  Would get in touch with the police.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 03 March, 2011, 10:46:50 am
Quote from: Rimnod on 03 March, 2011, 10:34:31 am
Going home last night I took the exceptionally rare opportunity to knock on the passenger’s side window of silver Subaru Impreza as he squeezed past me, causing traffic coming in the other direction to take avoiding action by slowing down and mount the grass verge.  No reason for the overtake apart from impatience; rural road, straight for about 3 miles, just oncoming traffic and me (riding at 17mph) to slow his progress.

Thought no more of it until this morning when the driver of the same car raced up behind me, gunning his engine and sounding his horn, made a very close pass and then left me under no illusion of what he thought of me using non-verbal communication.  Again this happened on the straight part of a rural road except this time there was no other traffic to hinder his progress.  No doubt I will be experiencing a close encounter of the third kind on the way home tonight.

Time to get the helmet-cam out again me thinks.  


Apologies if you've already seen this, but I can't help expressing my joy and schadenfreude:

Overtake no. 1:

    YouTube
        - D4N OK Aggressive overtake and road rage (D4 NOK)
   (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jclIjO_6I9U)

Overtake no. 2:

    YouTube
        - D4NOK Excellent overtake
   (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GD56P9fCXG0)

Wicked!!

I'd second the getting in touch with the police, even if you can persuade them to do no more than phone him and explain just how much room a cyclist needs on being overtaken.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 03 March, 2011, 10:58:40 am
Sat in the right lane at the Newmarket Road (west bound) / East Road / Elizabeth Way junction.  Bus to the left.  I notice passenger looking round at me.  Or, rather, it seems, at my Pompino.  Seemed to be taking a keen interest in it.  Wonder if he's Italian.  :P

Oh yes.  Turning right at lights from Arbury Rd into Campkin Rd, waiting behind learner driver who'd advanced into the middle of the junction.  The oncoming traffic cleared the junction, they were clear to go, the lights started to change, and they just sat there.  So I went. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Rimnod on 03 March, 2011, 11:13:52 am
I will wait and see what happens on the way home tonight and the in the morning.  It’s more annoying than anything else.  Have been doing this run for about 2 years and apart from one othersubstantial incident with a bus and WVM it’s a dream commute.

Scots law is slightly different as a witness is generally required in support of any complaint so this boils down to his word against mine at present.  If I gather some video evidence then I will take it up to the station and ask them if they would provide this driver with some guidance and I am sure they will happy to do so.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MartinGT on 03 March, 2011, 12:23:00 pm
Looking at them videos and reminded me of an incident I had with a friend.  My friend and I were out one day for a ride and a dick in a car shot passed close and at high speed.  My friend was at the front shouted and the car stopped similar to that one.  He jumped out and asked "WTF did you say cock?"

He then realised my friend was rather large (6'8" ex Para), he jumped back in his car and sped off  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 03 March, 2011, 12:35:08 pm
Out on a social ride when we were passed uncourteously by WVM.  We expressed our displeasure, which he noted.  He stopped to wait for us to catch up so we could discuss the matter.  One of our party moved forward to be our spokesperson.  This person was the natural choice as they were the only one in our group with a Warrant Card.  ;D
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MartinGT on 03 March, 2011, 12:59:44 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 03 March, 2011, 12:35:08 pm
Out on a social ride when we were passed uncourteously by WVM.  We expressed our displeasure, which he noted.  He stopped to wait for us to catch up so we could discuss the matter.  One of our party moved forward to be our spokesperson.  This person was the natural choice as they were the only one in our group with a Warrant Card.  ;D
 

 ;D Aye we have a Copper in our MTB Club with the same :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sigod on 03 March, 2011, 04:35:55 pm
Suffered from wicked wind this morning. It was truly a cold and hard ride in but I was not alone in this misery as the crowded cycle path across Clapham Common was filled with cyclists exchanging knowing looks.

I was overtaken by a middle aged gent on a Specialized S-Works and decided to see if my right knee had healed sufficiently (after my tumble of a few weeks ago) to take the strain of a stroll around what has been mention here before as 'The Secret Garden That Lurks Above 25mph'. It turns out that my knee was fine but my legs were sadly for sh*t. I managed about 20 seconds or so but beyond that, my riding partner became a dot in the distance.  ;D

I eased down on my trusty British Eagle, then wheezed and puffed the rest of the way into work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 03 March, 2011, 05:15:48 pm
Quote from: sigod on 03 March, 2011, 04:35:55 pm
Suffered from wicked wind this morning. It was truly a cold and hard ride

But warmer in your wake, presumably...

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moultonaught on 03 March, 2011, 08:15:53 pm
First ride in this morning after about a week and a half off from the bike, as a result of half term and being away in Manchester and Edinburgh for work.

bbiiiiiiiiigggggggg headwind this morning so I pottered in (even more potter-y than usual),

then much to my surprise my legs felt pretty good on the way home this evening.  :thumbsup:

I guess that means they'll be dire tomorrow  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 March, 2011, 08:42:57 pm
Fast ride home with a tailwind.  Lots of idiot idiot idiot motorists pulling out without looking.  They should have their licences taken away.  Not their driving licences, no, their oxygen licences.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 03 March, 2011, 09:08:59 pm
Approaching cars parked in the cycle lane I indicated right. There was a car just behind me, but we're doing the same pace in traffic. His response - accelerate, so he's level with me at the point I need to pull out or brake. I indicated my feelings when I caught him at the lights and then proceeded to be faster than him, which was satisfying.

The rest of the ride was fine, if a bit chilly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Palinurus on 03 March, 2011, 10:00:10 pm
Eeeesh, some headwind. I was doing about 9 mph this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 03 March, 2011, 10:16:33 pm
Pleasant surprise this evening - on the way home over the Peaks I met up with another trans-Pennine cycle commuter called John.

He commutes between Sheffield and Buxton. (About 40km/25mi with 800m climbing each way!) Apparently he does not do it every day; once a week in the winter and 2 or 3 times a week in the summer.  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 03 March, 2011, 10:36:15 pm
By crikey, a lot of poor overtakes tonight, close ones, and attempted suicide by overtake into oncoming traffic.  And two drivers on the phone.

One I feel a bit conflicted about - he drove beautifully around me, top 20% style, but then as he came next to me I saw an iphone to his ear.  I feel I should report it via roadsafe, but that could be rather ungrateful for his excellent driving.  I dunno - what do you guys suggest?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 03 March, 2011, 10:43:01 pm
Are you interested in the intent of the law or the letter of it?  Driving while using the phone is illegal because drivers tend to pay less attention to their surroundings when using a mobile phone.  Was this driver showing signs of that behaviour?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sigod on 03 March, 2011, 11:16:34 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 03 March, 2011, 05:15:48 pm
Quote from: sigod on 03 March, 2011, 04:35:55 pm
Suffered from wicked wind this morning. It was truly a cold and hard ride

But warmer in your wake, presumably...
:D :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MartinGT on 04 March, 2011, 08:23:36 am
Quote from: clarion on 03 March, 2011, 08:42:57 pm
Fast ride home with a tailwind.  Lots of idiot idiot idiot motorists pulling out without looking.  They should have their licences taken away.  Not their driving licences, no, their oxygen licences.

*high fives* I hear you Clarion, spot on idea!

Great ride home last night, fast and incident free :) Well apart from some other cyclist who thought he was in a race and kept overtaking me on the flats where the traffic was busy as I slow down only for me to drop him on the hills  ;D  One long steep climb on the way home and he was nowhere near the middle and a tiny dot when I looked back at the top  8)

Ride in the morning, a tad nippy but the end of the week :)  Some dick in a van turned in front of me then decided it was fun to block the cycle lane, idiot.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 04 March, 2011, 09:15:41 am
Jeez that was bloody cold (with a stubborn wind) this morning, thank goodness for thermal long-johns  :). To all the male cyclists that wore shorts - YOU ARE MAD! Apart from two cars trying to knock me off my bike this morning it was all relatively calm  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 March, 2011, 09:31:57 am
I guess a van driver can't look in her mirror if she hasn't got one. ::-)

Yes, I had a daft cow drive into my lane (and almost into me!) approaching Elephant & Castle RAB.  Actually, she didn't really need a mirror, as she was alongside, and I could see her, her stupid bobbly woolly hat, and her argument with the driver on her left as she moved to the right. >:(

Another headwind, and another day of ridiculous traffic levels.  What kind of idiot, having spent four mornings and four evenings queueing almost static through Mitcham & Tooting because of roadworks decides on Friday morning to get in their car and do it all over again?  But there are a sod of a lot of them who do. :o ???

And my thigh was hurting a bit more this morning.  Actually, I got a twinge and my right leg buckled a bit as I was setting off from one junction.  Result: I ripped a hole in the arse of my longs when I caught it on the nose of my saddle. :(  Fortunately, I was wearing shorts underneath, but it's annoying.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steve GT on 04 March, 2011, 09:57:41 am
It’s been a cold winter over here in Copenhagen.
The Danish authorities are very good at keeping the bike lanes gritted and free of ice.
To add a few extra miles to my commute I like to cycle through a Nature reserve that is close to the airport. The trouble is that they do not treat these cycle paths at all during the winter, so when it snows I avoid this part of my commute and stick to the paths along the main roads.
Although it had been extremely cold these last 3 weeks, it has not rained or snowed and the roads have been dry. Last night it started to get a little misty, but I had no problems with my normal commute through the Nature Reserve.
There is a stretch of lovely smooth new tarmac at the start of the path. As soon as I hit the new surface I felt a slight slip of the back wheel. I carried on for a few hundred meters when I slow down to see where my front tyre was catching the mudguard. I then realised the whole stretch was black ice and went down like a ton of bricks. Luckily I fell on my back and my haversack cushioned the fall.
I could not even walk on the surface as it was so slippery. I walked back along the grass verge until I got back to the main road for a 5 mile detour.   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 04 March, 2011, 10:23:57 am
Right at the start of my commute, this morning, some clown on a bike ran into the back of me.  He did look as if he was on his way to the circus, with his baggy clothing and Russian-style furry hat.  He seemed surprised that I slowed and stopped as I approached a junction with poor visibility (due to parked cars) and audible traffic, skidded to a stop and ran his front wheel into my left foot.  No harm done, or I'd have given him more than a quizzical look.

As I get back into lifting heavy weights in the gym, I'm noticing that I don't always have the legs for silly commuter racing.  I either need to settle down a bit or eat more.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MartinGT on 04 March, 2011, 11:19:05 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 04 March, 2011, 10:23:57 am
Right at the start of my commute, this morning, some clown on a bike ran into the back of me.  He did look as if he was on his way to the circus, with his baggy clothing and Russian-style furry hat.  He seemed surprised that I slowed and stopped as I approached a junction with poor visibility (due to parked cars) and audible traffic, skidded to a stop and ran his front wheel into my left foot.  No harm done, or I'd have given him more than a quizzical look.

As I get back into lifting heavy weights in the gym, I'm noticing that I don't always have the legs for silly commuter racing.  I either need to settle down a bit or eat more.

When I was cycling to work the other day it was noticable that more people were out on their bikes.  Hmmm maybe because I set off 20mins later.  Anyways, I noticed that three had head phones in!

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 06 March, 2011, 10:53:01 am
This is actually from Thursday and Friday.
(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g111/2daves/Guerilla%20knitters/P1010040.jpg)

(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g111/2daves/Guerilla%20knitters/P1010036.jpg)

TimO, have you seen this?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 06 March, 2011, 11:50:50 am
Aww! That's lovely :D.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonBuoy on 06 March, 2011, 11:55:40 am
A tree jumper for those particularly nippy nights.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 06 March, 2011, 04:53:04 pm
Guerilla knitting.

I've heard of it happening in Whitstable and Herne Bay - but never in London.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 07 March, 2011, 08:27:02 am
Heard. One skylark.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 March, 2011, 09:29:16 am
What a beautiful March day!  Frosty near home, and pretty cold, but the sun was shining and I was going well (and there may have been a bit of tailwind ;) ).

The number of numpties was normal; the number of cyclists up.  But the number of silly cyclist RLJs was also up, which was a damn shame.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MartinGT on 07 March, 2011, 09:31:04 am
Really stuggled into work this morning.  Bit of a late night on Saturday after having friends round for a bite to eat  :-[

Yesterday went out on the bike for a nice 3h into the Dales for a coffee and felt fine, today, its caught me up  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 07 March, 2011, 10:23:20 am
Frosty morning.  7:30 start not as uncrowded as a 6:30 start but still much better than 8am or later traffic.  I need to revert to getting up when my 6:30 alarm goes off, not lying in bed and listening to half an hour of radio.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 07 March, 2011, 11:23:34 am
I had an easy walk down the stairs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 07 March, 2011, 11:28:33 am
I had a gentle walk to work, listening to Pink Floyd on the ipod.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 07 March, 2011, 12:32:05 pm
"Oh no please no more For The Love of $DEITY please not again"

said various parts of my body as I set off on the tandem this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 07 March, 2011, 02:04:19 pm
Half day today, so set off at noon, beautiful blue skies, hardly any traffic. Just north of Deptford a cabbie tried to kill me by trying to turn right as I was going up Evelyn Street, but he quickly did a reverse swerve  :o A mile south of Tower Bridge some lads in a car told me that one my back tyre was flat. It was not  :-[. So as I passed them again around Bermondsey Station they called out 'your back wheel has got a puncture' and I called out 'no worries, all fixed now - hope you guys have a lovely day  :thumbsup:' - the total and utter look of incomprehension on the poor chav's face was lovely. Face, bothered? Not I.

Just after Cannon Street going towards Ludgate Circus, wall to wall traffic.  ??? Turns out that those temporary lights had come out in force as there were roadworks. Both directions were very bad. Don't go near there folks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 07 March, 2011, 02:11:45 pm
Quote from: simonp on 07 March, 2011, 11:23:34 am
I had an easy walk down the stairs.


Actually, I think I now lay claim the record for the shortest commute, to sit on the shelf next to my silly london commute.

Being 'orizontal, I have the laptop under my bed. I reached down, slapped it on stomach, I'm at work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 07 March, 2011, 03:00:44 pm
Quote from: rower40 on 07 March, 2011, 12:32:05 pm
"Oh no please no more For The Love of $DEITY please not again"

said various parts of my body as I set off on the tandem this morning.


Hiccups finished yet?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 07 March, 2011, 03:16:27 pm
Quote from: Ham on 07 March, 2011, 02:11:45 pm
Actually, I think I now lay claim the record for the shortest commute, to sit on the shelf next to my silly london commute.

Being 'orizontal, I have the laptop under my bed. I reached down, slapped it on stomach, I'm at work.

Sorry, beat you to it (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=44677.msg874119#msg874119)  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 07 March, 2011, 03:34:26 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 07 March, 2011, 03:00:44 pm
Quote from: rower40 on 07 March, 2011, 12:32:05 pm
"Oh no please no more For The Love of $DEITY please not again"

said various parts of my body as I set off on the tandem this morning.


Hiccups finished yet?

Yes thanks, as long as I don't cough.
But the main reason for the plea was that my body had had enough of the tandem following Saturday's hsilly 50 (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=43136.msg876491#msg876491)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 07 March, 2011, 07:06:47 pm
DAYLIGHT.

Also, it would appear that being at risk for redundancy puts hair on your chest or something, I had a flying ride home.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 07 March, 2011, 07:36:17 pm
Quote from: rower40 on 07 March, 2011, 12:32:05 pm
"Oh no please no more For The Love of $DEITY please not again"

said various parts of my body as I set off on the tandem this morning.

I decided to take the 'bent out today, on the basis that it would involve as few achy bits as possible.  That seemed to mostly work.

I also discovered a hole starting to form in my glove, presumably as a result of the death-grip I was using on those knobbly handlebar grips on Saturday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 07 March, 2011, 08:14:12 pm
My gloves are getting holes in them too, largely as a result of putting my hand down on the ground.  :D

Can't really complain after two years of service from those gloves.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 07 March, 2011, 08:16:35 pm
Daylight both on the way to work and on the way home - lights not required for the first time this year. Roll on summer  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: YahudaMoon on 07 March, 2011, 08:19:40 pm
@  SlowCoach . Nice 1 ! 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 07 March, 2011, 08:56:39 pm
Saw 2 PCSO's on bikes on Oxford st (London) first one went over the junction on an orange light and his chum behind RLJed, not on a call out as he had a plastic bag of shopping hanging from the handle bars  :facepalm: not a good example to set i think  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 07 March, 2011, 10:14:43 pm
Miss Dan the Elder is poorly so I rode both ways today.
On the way in no one on the Falmer road did anything silly.  :thumbsup:
On the way back I took the off-road track, so got my first off road ride of the year in.  :thumbsup:
(Then drove back to work for an evening thing, but we'll gloss over that.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 08 March, 2011, 08:06:48 am
Ice in the water bottle by the time I got to work this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MartinGT on 08 March, 2011, 09:08:59 am
Quote from: TheLurker on 08 March, 2011, 08:06:48 am
Ice in the water bottle by the time I got to work this morning.


Aye, was a fresh one this morning indeed.  Gorgeous ride into work though.  Going to slap an extra 30km on the ride tonight with a couple of friends so looking forward to that :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 March, 2011, 09:38:38 am
Crisp and wonderful.

What wasn't wonderful was that, after setting off well, ten minutes in I suffered a terrible slump, with useless legs.  I seriously considered bailing to a train :-[

Picked up soon enough, though, and I got to work in 58 mins. Inside the target one hour.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 08 March, 2011, 09:42:17 am
The guerilla knitters have completed their project in Streatham, but today I found a tree wrapped in a gingham quilt in Balham! Surely that's too far to be the same group?
I'll photograph it tomorrow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 08 March, 2011, 09:57:17 am
Another 6:30 start.  Fast and uneventful trip in.  Early starts ftw, except that my arsehole employers don't allow any flexibility in working hours.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 08 March, 2011, 11:51:37 am
(http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5092/5509149018_732677ac0b.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/36911087@N05/5509149018/)
orangtyres (http://www.flickr.com/photos/36911087@N05/5509149018/) by vorsprung2009 (http://www.flickr.com/people/36911087@N05/), on Flickr

First day of the year using the Orbea with the dope orange tyres
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sigod on 08 March, 2011, 11:52:13 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 08 March, 2011, 09:57:17 am
Another 6:30 start.  Fast and uneventful trip in.  Early starts ftw, except that my arsehole employers don't allow any flexibility in working hours.
On the upside at least, you had the ideal trip in. Fast and uneventful works for me every time.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sigod on 08 March, 2011, 11:54:33 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 08 March, 2011, 11:51:37 am
(http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5092/5509149018_732677ac0b.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/36911087@N05/5509149018/)
orangtyres (http://www.flickr.com/photos/36911087@N05/5509149018/) by vorsprung2009 (http://www.flickr.com/people/36911087@N05/), on Flickr

First day of the year using the Orbea with the dope orange tyres
How did it go?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 08 March, 2011, 12:04:24 pm
First time of cycling in to the office since I popped in on 1st Jan. Partly due to hardly coming in here (usually working from home or out of the country), but then when I have come in I've either needed to be suited and booted and going round to varying customers, or carrying loads of stuff, so it's been a car commute  :(

So yesterday I dug out my Audax MK3, realised I'd not used that bike since riding back from Wales at the end of January (been using my Roubaix for Audax and club rides, and my Pursuit fixie for popping into the village), so had to do a fettle session to lubricate, clean and re set it up for the commute.

Got up this morning and it was sub zero, so wrapped up warmly, but it was great weather to be out - and by the time I was half way I had ditched the buff and fleecy hat. I'd have got rid of the jacket too if I could have been bothered stopping. And it was all in daylight too!

Much slower than I was towards the back end of last year - averaging about 23kph for the 60km ride in  :( And horrible traffic too - I'm sure the roads weren't that busy when I was riding in last year, with lots of big queues that were difficult to ride around. Looking forward to the ride home  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 08 March, 2011, 12:11:37 pm
Quote from: sigod on 08 March, 2011, 11:54:33 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 08 March, 2011, 11:51:37 am
(http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5092/5509149018_732677ac0b.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/36911087@N05/5509149018/)
orangtyres (http://www.flickr.com/photos/36911087@N05/5509149018/) by vorsprung2009 (http://www.flickr.com/people/36911087@N05/), on Flickr

First day of the year using the Orbea with the dope orange tyres
How did it go?

On the plus side the 23mm tyres at 8 bar felt alright, not too hard.
On the minus side the bike didn't seem that fast, but there was a headwind
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 March, 2011, 12:15:49 pm
What it is it stood on?  Looks like a leaded roof ???

Oh, btw, glad you got out on the pimped-up bike :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 08 March, 2011, 12:18:44 pm
They are actually bike racks using concrete slabs with a slot for the wheel to drop into.Excellent for buckling a wheel ::-)

ETA
the slots can get bunged up with all sorts of crud thus preventing the wheel from dropping in & the width of the slot is often wide enough for an mtb fat tyre thus being oversize for a road bike wheel

.
Quote from: clarion on 08 March, 2011, 12:15:49 pm
What it is it stood on?  Looks like a leaded roof ???


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 08 March, 2011, 12:20:03 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 08 March, 2011, 09:57:17 am
Early starts ftw

Indeed. When it starts getting light early enough I plan on being out by 6am to put in a cheeky 40km round the park to be home and showered by 7.30am so that I can help deal with baby GB and take her to nursery.

Mid-April should be ok, a couple of weeks after the clocks go back.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 08 March, 2011, 12:27:49 pm
Lurgy hangover from yesterday made me decide to drive.

Aaaaaaaagggggggghhh.

One hour 55 from SW20 to Sunbury.

I could almost have walked it in that time.

Why is it that WHENEVER I choose to drive (very rarely) the traffic is at least twice as bad as when I cycle ?   I feel like a have a traffic jam magnet in the car.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 08 March, 2011, 12:31:36 pm
Quote from: hatler on 08 March, 2011, 12:27:49 pm
Lurgy hangover from yesterday made me decide to drive.

Aaaaaaaagggggggghhh.

One hour 55 from SW20 to Sunbury.

27 minutes on the train.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 08 March, 2011, 12:38:29 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 08 March, 2011, 12:31:36 pm
Quote from: hatler on 08 March, 2011, 12:27:49 pm
Lurgy hangover from yesterday made me decide to drive.

Aaaaaaaagggggggghhh.

One hour 55 from SW20 to Sunbury.

27 minutes on the train.
I know, I know.

But a mile walk at the end, and the way I'm feeling that might have been a mile too far.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 08 March, 2011, 01:16:08 pm
Quote from: MattH on 08 March, 2011, 12:04:24 pm
First time of cycling in to the office since I popped in on 1st Jan. Partly due to hardly coming in here (usually working from home or out of the country), but then when I have come in I've either needed to be suited and booted and going round to varying customers, or carrying loads of stuff, so it's been a car commute  :(

So yesterday I dug out my Audax MK3, realised I'd not used that bike since riding back from Wales at the end of January (been using my Roubaix for Audax and club rides, and my Pursuit fixie for popping into the village), so had to do a fettle session to lubricate, clean and re set it up for the commute.

Got up this morning and it was sub zero, so wrapped up warmly, but it was great weather to be out - and by the time I was half way I had ditched the buff and fleecy hat. I'd have got rid of the jacket too if I could have been bothered stopping. And it was all in daylight too!

Much slower than I was towards the back end of last year - averaging about 23kph for the 60km ride in  :( And horrible traffic too - I'm sure the roads weren't that busy when I was riding in last year, with lots of big queues that were difficult to ride around. Looking forward to the ride home  :thumbsup:
And I ended up on the train today so I couldn't wave to you.  :-[ I trust you navigated the road works in Bagshot wihout too much hasle.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 08 March, 2011, 01:21:53 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 08 March, 2011, 12:20:03 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 08 March, 2011, 09:57:17 am
Early starts ftw

Indeed. When it starts getting light early enough I plan on being out by 6am to put in a cheeky 40km round the park to be home and showered by 7.30am so that I can help deal with baby GB and take her to nursery.

Mid-April should be ok, a couple of weeks after the clocks go back.
Sunrise / Sunset calculator (http://www.usno.navy.mil/USNO/astronomical-applications/data-services/rs-one-year-world)
Prints nicely to A4 landscape.  Perfect for taping to desk (next to the PDF of the TdF route).

Here in the  bottom right hand corner of Glos. the 5th of April, sunrise 0530 GMT, is probably the earliest I'll be able to unship the lights.  Mildly annoying given that so far this week lights haven't really been necessary for the work-bound trip.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 08 March, 2011, 01:28:34 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 08 March, 2011, 01:21:53 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 08 March, 2011, 12:20:03 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 08 March, 2011, 09:57:17 am
Early starts ftw

Indeed. When it starts getting light early enough I plan on being out by 6am to put in a cheeky 40km round the park to be home and showered by 7.30am so that I can help deal with baby GB and take her to nursery.

Mid-April should be ok, a couple of weeks after the clocks go back.
Sunrise / Sunset calculator (http://www.usno.navy.mil/USNO/astronomical-applications/data-services/rs-one-year-world)
Prints nicely to A4 landscape.  Perfect for taping to desk (next to the PDF of the TdF route).

I just use Sunrise Sunset Calendars and Local Time (http://www.sunrisesunset.com) and look for the date that it becomes useful, I don't need the individual times. I just know that between mid-April and end of August it's before 6am.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 08 March, 2011, 01:30:22 pm
Quote from: matthew on 08 March, 2011, 01:16:08 pm
And I ended up on the train today so I couldn't wave to you.  :-[ I trust you navigated the road works in Bagshot wihout too much hasle.

So I'll blame you for the holdup at level crossing at Sunningdale (timed it precisely wrong, ended up sitting by the Rolls garage for ages).
Bagshot isn't too bad, though it was causing queues all the way up past the top of the hill (coming into Bagshot from the Camberley end).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 08 March, 2011, 05:03:54 pm
Quote from: vorsprung on 08 March, 2011, 11:51:37 am
(http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5092/5509149018_732677ac0b.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/36911087@N05/5509149018/)
orangtyres (http://www.flickr.com/photos/36911087@N05/5509149018/) by vorsprung2009 (http://www.flickr.com/people/36911087@N05/), on Flickr

First day of the year using the Orbea with the dope orange tyres

LOL your Kryptonite matches the orange too  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: welshwheels on 08 March, 2011, 06:16:03 pm
first commute since start of december used mtb bloody cold at 5.30 this morning nice ride home though  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 08 March, 2011, 09:36:51 pm
Good weather today,cold this am. Ride home enlivened by someone in a black AM convertible Vantage tearing down the road and a mile later he is in a loooonnngggg queue of cars as I go past :thumbsup: and then a couple of cars tried outrunning an oncoming ambulance on an emergency call thro' a set of lights but the cars realized at the last minute what was going to happen. From 50m back it was obvious!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 09 March, 2011, 12:02:33 am
Quote from: clarion on 08 March, 2011, 12:15:49 pm
What it is it stood on?  Looks like a leaded roof ???

Oh, btw, glad you got out on the pimped-up bike :)

They look like wheel bending paving slabs to me.  Stupid idea.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 09 March, 2011, 08:27:17 am
 Now that it's daylight, there is a purpose in wearing the HRM. This morning: tempo.
:)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 09 March, 2011, 08:36:57 am
what is tempo?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MartinGT on 09 March, 2011, 08:39:19 am
Today in Leeds is "Im a twat and drive like a twat" day.  They are everywhere!


And finally, the best one.  There is a right turn I take on a corner that goes to the left, its got a feeder line to turn right (here (http://www.streetmap.co.uk/map.srf?x=428707&y=432798&z=106&sv=428707,432798&st=4&ar=y&mapp=map.srf&searchp=ids.srf&dn=821&ax=428707&ay=432798&lm=0)).  A cyclist is coming the other way, towards me and a van decides its a good opportunity to overtake them.  But doesnt look and cuts the corner almost taking me out! Who's sat in the feeder lane to turn right!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jezzasnr on 09 March, 2011, 08:43:31 am
Nice and mild, easy roll in this morning.
long way home i think.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 09 March, 2011, 08:54:42 am
Commuted today for the first time in about 9 months.

Should have been 18.6 miles, ended up being >23!!!

Missed a turning, but no problem, there is another turning further through the village.  Get to that turning (a T junction) and turn left instead of right.  End up doing a ~5 mile detour back to where I started at the T, then went the RIGHT way :)

Not too many displays of stupid driving and it was nicely mild....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 March, 2011, 09:30:59 am
*sigh*

It was a nice fast ride, and I enjoyed it.

But there was a complete arsehole of a bus driver, who was so keen to get out and assault me that he knocked a cyclist down leaping off the bus >:(

Wanker.

Maybe more later.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 09 March, 2011, 11:39:24 am
As promised:
(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g111/2daves/Guerilla%20knitters/P1010042.jpg)

So what is it that has suddenly inspired these people to do these marvellous things?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 09 March, 2011, 11:39:47 am
Quote from: jogler on 09 March, 2011, 08:36:57 am
what is tempo?
Italian for speed/timing.

Just means pace. So, in training terms, it's maintaining a decent rate for a decent time, as opposed to a steady fat burning rate, or the push then relax of intervals.
I've been taking it easy over the winter but now that the sap is rising and a young man's fancy takes me (as it were) I was putting a bit more effort in.
Was fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 09 March, 2011, 12:05:48 pm
More bus driver hate, on the way home yesterday.  Travelling over Chelsea bridge, I could see a slow cyclist wobbling along in front of a bus.  The bus was monstering her, to the point where she moved right into the gutter, hopped off her bike and onto the high concrete kerb, which is a very fragile perch since it is the base of railings.  Bus carried on but hardly quickly, since there was traffic just ahead to slow it down. Hate.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 09 March, 2011, 01:44:39 pm
Quote from: alexb on 09 March, 2011, 11:39:24 am
As promised:
(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g111/2daves/Guerilla%20knitters/P1010042.jpg)

So what is it that has suddenly inspired these people to do these marvellous things?

Entirely splendid. I haven't been following this, but a bit of google-fu throws up this gem:

http://www.streathampulse.com/2011/03/04/the-streatham-ninja-knitters/ (http://www.streathampulse.com/2011/03/04/the-streatham-ninja-knitters/)

Quote
They plan to make Streatham a warmer, more cuddly place by knitting it up in a fluffy cozy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 March, 2011, 04:05:06 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 09 March, 2011, 12:05:48 pm
More bus driver hate, on the way home yesterday.  Travelling over Chelsea bridge, I could see a slow cyclist wobbling along in front of a bus.  The bus was monstering her, to the point where she moved right into the gutter, hopped off her bike and onto the high concrete kerb, which is a very fragile perch since it is the base of railings.  Bus carried on but hardly quickly, since there was traffic just ahead to slow it down. Hate.


Unbelievable. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 March, 2011, 04:10:14 pm
Quote from: clarion on 09 March, 2011, 09:30:59 am
...complete arsehole of a bus driver, who was so keen to get out and assault me that he knocked a cyclist down leaping off the bus >:(

Wanker.

Maybe more later.

I've been OK about this.  Although I was actually assaulted by the driver, and had a plastic PC tell me all about how all cyclists jump red lights etc, I've managed to write most of a report on the incident, and make a complaint about the PCSO/traffic warden/officious ignorant twat in yellow/whatever.  And, I'll give credit to Wandsworth Police, that they did call me back this morning to say that the team who deal with complaints wouldn't be in till this afternoon, and I've just had a very sympathetic call from one of that team.

But I'm just having a massive wibble.  I've got to go out on those roads again in less than an hour, and, if people are going to use buses as weapons, and people in positions of power are prepared to make up things about me, I don't feel very safe at all.

I'll just hide under my desk till its time to leave. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 09 March, 2011, 04:56:48 pm
Unbelievable. I'm met you on several occasions, and you are just not a challenging or aggressive chap. The last person I would have thought would attract trouble.

Maybe you need to go the opposite, become Mad Max on a bicycle.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 09 March, 2011, 05:29:19 pm
This bullying on the roads is a disgrace.   I hope you well and truly get your mojo back on the commute Clarion.  Luck.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 09 March, 2011, 05:29:45 pm
Quote from: clarion on 09 March, 2011, 04:10:14 pm
Quote from: clarion on 09 March, 2011, 09:30:59 am
...complete arsehole of a bus driver, who was so keen to get out and assault me that he knocked a cyclist down leaping off the bus >:(

Wanker.

Maybe more later.

I've been OK about this.  Although I was actually assaulted by the driver, and had a plastic PC tell me all about how all cyclists jump red lights etc, I've managed to write most of a report on the incident, and make a complaint about the PCSO/traffic warden/officious ignorant twat in yellow/whatever.  And, I'll give credit to Wandsworth Police, that they did call me back this morning to say that the team who deal with complaints wouldn't be in till this afternoon, and I've just had a very sympathetic call from one of that team.

But I'm just having a massive wibble.  I've got to go out on those roads again in less than an hour, and, if people are going to use buses as weapons, and people in positions of power are prepared to make up things about me, I don't feel very safe at all.

I'll just hide under my desk till its time to leave. :-\

I'm leaving in about 15 minutes, if you're still around we could meet up and ride back to the edge of Streatham together.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 09 March, 2011, 05:34:01 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 06 March, 2011, 04:53:04 pm
Guerilla knitting.

I've heard of it happening in Whitstable and Herne Bay - but never in London.  :thumbsup:

As if to prove you correct, here are some knitted bikes in Whitstable:
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k170/smutchin/01a4efb4.jpg)

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 09 March, 2011, 05:38:07 pm
Quote from: clarion on 09 March, 2011, 04:10:14 pm
But I'm just having a massive wibble.  I've got to go out on those roads again in less than an hour, and, if people are going to use buses as weapons, and people in positions of power are prepared to make up things about me, I don't feel very safe at all.

Good luck out there, Clarion. You do seem to attract more than your share of nastiness, which I'm sure is just bad luck on your part rather than you doing anything wrong - for the reasons mrcharly says.

Not fair!  :(

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 09 March, 2011, 05:46:13 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 09 March, 2011, 05:34:01 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 06 March, 2011, 04:53:04 pm
Guerilla knitting.

I've heard of it happening in Whitstable and Herne Bay - but never in London.  :thumbsup:

As if to prove you correct, here are some knitted bikes in Whitstable:
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k170/smutchin/01a4efb4.jpg)

d.


That's just outside The Cheesebox on Harbour Street, isn't it?
I have a friend who lives in Whitstable who first told me about guerilla knitting and, yet, she refuses to confide in me as to whether she is or she isn't a guerilla knitter  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 09 March, 2011, 06:07:40 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 09 March, 2011, 05:46:13 pm
That's just outside The Cheesebox on Harbour Street, isn't it?

Certainly is.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 09 March, 2011, 06:58:51 pm
I used the 'bent to ride to work today.  Headwind on the way in (so it was slow), and big uphill on the way home (ditto).
No aggro to report.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 09 March, 2011, 07:08:39 pm
On a Milton Keynes Redway going home, I saw two kids coming towards me side by side. A girl on foot and a boy on a bike. They were side by side, so I slowed so we could sort out how we would pass each other.
The boy on the bike said, "Don't run me over, run her over, she won't be missed."
Judging by her laughter, she took it in good spirits.
I didn't run anyone over. :smug: O:-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 09 March, 2011, 07:32:59 pm
After having checked that everything that is supposed to still revolves, I ride along the the outside of a queue of traffic and stop alongside the driver's window of a car-

Me: What happened there then?

Driver: I don't know.

Me: You ran into the back of me.

Driver: I didn't hear or feel anything. Sorry.

Me: You didn't see anything either?

I ride off muttering darkly.

FFS! I'd had to get off my bike because it was wedged upright and immobile under his front numberplate and tell the myopic twat to reverse off my rear wheel.

Edit to add:  :thumbsup: for Mavic Ellipse wheels. That's four cars now that have sat on my rear wheel as far as I can remember. The only time that they have needed truing is after they received a kicking and that was minimal.


Five minutes later on a 20mph road 'calmed' with speed bumps I was fifth in a stream of traffic. At the head was a large white transit taking it easy over the bumps but getting up to twenty in between. Too slow for the driver of the 4x4 Merc sitting in third though. Floors it and overtakes the two vehicles ahead, really clumsily though as they have to brake for another speed bump as they are alongside. Best not mention the double white lines, the left hand bend or the crest or that it is really obvious that the nursery and prep school has obviously just ended its day by the presence of all the really small people all over the place. Or that the overtake was almost completely pointless as the driver didn't have time to regain their side of the road before turning off into the prep school car park!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 March, 2011, 08:34:09 pm
Quote from: Lindagordinho on 09 March, 2011, 05:29:19 pm
This bullying on the roads is a disgrace.   I hope you well and truly get your mojo back on the commute Clarion.  Luck.
Quote from: alexb on 09 March, 2011, 05:29:45 pm
I'm leaving in about 15 minutes, if you're still around we could meet up and ride back to the edge of Streatham together.
Quote from: citoyen on 09 March, 2011, 05:38:07 pm
Good luck out there, Clarion. You do seem to attract more than your share of nastiness, which I'm sure is just bad luck on your part rather than you doing anything wrong - for the reasons mrcharly says.

Not fair!  :(

d.

Thanks folks.  Alex, if I'd still been online when you offered, I would have taken you up on that, but I was getting ready to leave when you posted. :(

As is the way of these things, I had a cracking ride home.  OK, there were the usual arseholes, but nothing really significant.

Keeping the wheels turning... :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 09 March, 2011, 08:55:24 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 06 March, 2011, 04:53:04 pm
Guerilla knitting.

I've heard of it happening in Whitstable and Herne Bay - but never in London.  :thumbsup:

It is rather strange though.  Since I hadn't been commuting for a while, I wondered how long it had been on the barriers near Streatham Common station, but I think I must have restarted the commute, and noticed it, very near to the time it apparently appeared.

I'm not sure that the news story leaves me any wiser about the why, but it's distinctive, and I guess that should I manage to collide with the barriers (which I haven't yet in three years of commuting through there), I will be slightly more cushioned. ;D

I should take a camera down there tomorrow morning, and photograph it on my way to work[1].  I normally only go through that underpass on my way home, so it's normally rather dark.

Footnote [1] The roads around Streatham are tolerable when I'm going North, but when I'm Southbound on the way home, it requires me to be in the middle of the road at a couple of busy locations, neither of which is very nice, so I use the LCN5 route, which is mostly safer, and includes going under the railway at this point.  It is ½ mile longer, but that's acceptable to avoid some fairly nasty bit of road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 09 March, 2011, 09:19:39 pm
...and we appear to have a registered owner joining up to YouTube today to comment on driving done in his/her vehicle:


    YouTube
        - RF06OKV cuts in at me to teach me a lesson?
   (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rp18Q89RUxA)

Timing is likely, since I got the Roadsafe stock reply on Monday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 March, 2011, 09:39:07 pm
Nasty.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 09 March, 2011, 09:45:14 pm
Sorry to hear about the fuckwittery on the roads affecting forumites today :(

I actually had to use my car today sadly as I had to take my kids to the dentist first thing. I think I am going to try to go for a record how long I can leave it in the garage without using it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 09 March, 2011, 11:26:49 pm
There was one of the most laughably piss-poor displays of going half way across a junction and then failing to track stand until the road became clear (and the light turned green) that I've seen in a while this morning.
One idiot pulled out on me on the way home. I got an apology from the passenger when I passed them waiting for a right filter at the lights and I was carrying on. Otherwise really quite a nice, brisk ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 09 March, 2011, 11:37:17 pm
On the way to work I scared a really very cute foreign girl crossing the road in front of me when I braked very noisly to let her go ahead of me. I should've offered to make it up to her by buying her a coffee sometime, but I'm much too thick to think of these things at the time.

On the way home, I scared a rat on the cycle path by the river. Didn't ask them out either. When I was waiting to join the road at roundabout to turn right onto Airport Way. I've taken to riding on the road again as the cycle path is one side only, and wrong side against car headlights is rubbish. I also have to cross the road to rejoin the road when I leave the path, and it's near another roundabout which makes the crossing difficult and dangerous at busy times. While I wait I spot a bike on the other side with stripes of blue/green LEDs on the front wheel.

Once I am on airport way I catch up with them. The LEDs now appear to be red, but as I draw alongside they are blue/green again. Coooool!  "Like the LEDs" I shout across, and "Thank you!" comes back in a female, American sounding voice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 10 March, 2011, 12:54:15 am
And a fuckwit bus driver on the way home tonight. Simultaneous overtake and pull in to bus stop. Really quite scary as I was forced into cratered pot holes as I was braking.
The last time I had to report a bus it was Arriva and their response was pretty good. I also reported that event to TfL who appeared to do sod all. This evening was a Go-Ahead bus and they ask all complaints to be forwarded to TfL which I'm obviously not happy with as a solution. Anyone got any useful contacts at Go-Ahead? Or do I go straight to the top?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 10 March, 2011, 08:00:53 am
Hmmm. Headwinds.  Isn't it amazing how they can turn a not particularly demanding route into a swine of a 14 mile hill climb?  One's mood is not improved on seeing another cyclist, going in the opposite direction, flying along with a dirty great grin on his chops, especially as you know, deep in your bones, that by home time the wind will have either faded away to nothing or performed a complete volte-face and will be in your teeth.  Again.

Still, better than driving.  I think. :)

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 10 March, 2011, 08:07:09 am
Quote from: benborp on 10 March, 2011, 12:54:15 am
And a fuckwit bus driver on the way home tonight. Simultaneous overtake and pull in to bus stop. Really quite scary as I was forced into cratered pot holes as I was braking.
The last time I had to report a bus it was Arriva and their response was pretty good. I also reported that event to TfL who appeared to do sod all. This evening was a Go-Ahead bus and they ask all complaints to be forwarded to TfL which I'm obviously not happy with as a solution. Anyone got any useful contacts at Go-Ahead? Or do I go straight to the top?

I've found reporting via TfL to be good, as they do pass the complaints onto the contracting bus company, and I like to think there's some sort of response and SLA going on around those complaints.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 10 March, 2011, 08:59:56 am
Having ridden tandem, commuter, then recumbent in to work on three successive days this week, I've decided to go for the full set.

Tourer today, Brompton tomorrow.

But this could get costly - the last time the tourer was used was the Yorkshire Puddings ride, and the chain has decided to go a crunchy shade of brown.  The brompton looks similar.  So I'm off to the LBS tonight to buy new transmissions for both.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 10 March, 2011, 09:00:24 am
Headwinds but a nice warm morning despite that, so I cycled in in a short-sleeve t-shirt.  That, a 6:35 start and a speedy commute have cheered me up.  See how long it lasts.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 10 March, 2011, 09:01:41 am
Anyone ever seen Duel?  It was a bit like that this morning - a massive juggernaut chased behind me for about a mile through narrow streets.  I stopped and waved him past when the roads cleared, as I wouldn't have been able to maintain his speed along the bypass even with that tailwind.  He gave me a grateful hooonk on his horn when he did overtake, which was nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 March, 2011, 09:11:27 am
Quote from: Wendy on 10 March, 2011, 08:07:09 am
Quote from: benborp on 10 March, 2011, 12:54:15 am
And a fuckwit bus driver on the way home tonight. Simultaneous overtake and pull in to bus stop. Really quite scary as I was forced into cratered pot holes as I was braking.
The last time I had to report a bus it was Arriva and their response was pretty good. I also reported that event to TfL who appeared to do sod all. This evening was a Go-Ahead bus and they ask all complaints to be forwarded to TfL which I'm obviously not happy with as a solution. Anyone got any useful contacts at Go-Ahead? Or do I go straight to the top?

I've found reporting via TfL to be good, as they do pass the complaints onto the contracting bus company, and I like to think there's some sort of response and SLA going on around those complaints.

It's important to complain via TfL so that the stats get properly logged. Yesterday, I chased up the two complaints I'd made online last week, without any sort of acknowledgement or response.  Last night, I received an email confirming that they had identified the driver concerned in Monday's incident, and apologised for their inability to go into detail*, but assured me that he had been spoken to and dealt with appropriately.

I'm happy with that.

If you're not happy with the response via TfL, I happened across a number for TravelWatch, who are an independent appeals process.  I was given their number in error by a bus inspector who told me it was the number to call to complain.  The pleasant person at TravelWatch explained the error and their true purpose.

Call 0207 505 9000.

* The reason given for this is DPA.  However, since there is no public way I could identify the individual, it does not really apply in this case.  Not worth the argument this time; he's been dealt with**.

** and probably now has a real chip on his shoulder about all cyclists.  C'est la vie.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 10 March, 2011, 09:15:46 am
That was bloody hard work this morning, I am puffed out.

Clarion am glad that you got a response from TfL  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 10 March, 2011, 09:23:51 am
Oh well done Clarion!

p.s. I very much doubt that driver will now be worse to other cyclists, quite the opposite.  Getting a telling off has a positive effect on almost everyones' behaviour.  Even though they might be angry and deny it at the time, the next time they're in that situation, they will almost certainly moderate their own behaviour a little better.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 March, 2011, 09:34:31 am
I hope so.  I have a relentlessly optimistic view of human nature, and I am most often proved to be right.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 10 March, 2011, 09:40:43 am
Bit windy, but it's only 5-ish miles so who's complaining when the sun is shining and the dog walkers/drivers behaving!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 10 March, 2011, 09:49:45 am
Nice tailwind, spoilt by worse than normal traffic on the New King's Road (a minor shunt and traffic lights in Parsons Green). Freed up by Chelsea Embankment and romped along at 130rpm.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 March, 2011, 09:55:07 am
I thought I was seeing the last moments of one idiot today.

The van in front of me indicated left nice and early to go into the builders suppliers which is reasonably heavily used, so regular commuters should know to be cautious there.  He slowed down to check it was clear.  I indicated and moved to the right, ready to go round the rear of him when a gap appeared in the traffic in the lane to the right.

An idiot on a bike, came steaming round on my right, swung to the left, and tried to pull, at speed, across the nose of a carefully turning van.  Only the caution and excellent reactions of the van driver stopped it being a crash.  The cyclist was unhurt, but may have been shaken, as he was a fair bit slower afterwards.  Maybe he's had enough of a shock to give him some sense.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 10 March, 2011, 10:53:59 am
I wore my new cycling shoes for the first time today. In lacking the foresight to loosen off the pedals a little in compensation for the new cleats, I spent my commute a) narrowly avoiding clipless incidents and b) doing comically exaggerated and noisy releases because the cleats were practically welded to the pedals.

The shoes are very white. I'm not sure I like them because I keep catching sight of them out of the corner of my eye... That said, I did go very fast today, so it must be down to the shoes (and not the roaring tailwind).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 10 March, 2011, 01:11:40 pm
I'm on holibobs today. Late night last night after hard gym sesh (it was fine until my PB swimming attempt). Spent this morning tidying the kitchen, washing some clothes, making cappuccino, listening to Making Scotland's Landscape (episode 2: The Highlands), filling the dishwasher. Didn't start packing til 11:42 with train to catch at 12:33.

I left the house at 12:11 and headed into a monster headwind. Two panniers, Barley saddlebag, messenger bag; 71" gear. My legs complained. I arrived at the station at 12:28 then had the usual fight with the ticket machine to collect my prebooked tickets. It would be nice if it didn't eject the tickets in a random order in random orientations. I had enough time to buy some water and Red Bull and catch the train.

It was only when I removed the company fleece we were given a few years ago that I realised how much I sweated under it during the 3 miles. I think I'll change my shirt once I get on the next train.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 10 March, 2011, 03:24:11 pm
Picked this up from my twitter feed...this lady was assaulted whilst cycling in SE1 parts this morning.

Attacked this morning - any SE1 witnesses? (http://www.london-se1.co.uk/forum/read/1/137333)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 March, 2011, 03:40:23 pm
:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 10 March, 2011, 03:44:55 pm
Too early for me, but that bit under the bridge is a nightmare to try and cycle through given all of the pedestrians going to/from Waterloo.

Luckily I only go through there once a week (tonight) on my way to 5-a-side.

If I had to go through there every day I'd choose a different route to avoid it, at peak times anyway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sigod on 10 March, 2011, 03:50:02 pm
A very uneventful ride in for me today but reading in other posts here about some of the stuff going on around the Chelsea/Parsons Green area reminded me of just how much of a rabbit warren that part of the world is.

I used to commute through that location and cars, trucks, busses, bikes and pedestrians can come at you from all directions without any warning. Full respect for all those who traverse those roads as you have to have eyes in the back of your head to navigate it safely.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 10 March, 2011, 06:51:37 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 10 March, 2011, 03:44:55 pm
Too early for me, but that bit under the bridge is a nightmare to try and cycle through given all of the pedestrians going to/from Waterloo.

Luckily I only go through there once a week (tonight) on my way to 5-a-side.

If I had to go through there every day I'd choose a different route to avoid it, at peak times anyway.

Agreed, that point is just too much confrontation with pedestrians. I used to go through there and then straight on to Lower Ground. I now go further along The Cut and up Hatfields.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 March, 2011, 08:27:57 pm
That was ridiculously gusty!  A very odd, yet still enjoyable, ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 11 March, 2011, 01:44:20 am
I didn't seem to have too windy a day of it. I ride in to town around four in the afternoon and home approaching midnight. There were occasional gusts, one was strong enough to whip the back of the bike round as I raised my back wheel to set my pedals at lights, however the whole headwind/tailwind thing didn't seem to materialize, which is a nice change from the subtle, yet extremely effective headwind that seems to have been waiting for me every time I've set out over the last week.

Downside this evening - another homicidal bus driver whose attempt on my life I haven't yet recovered from (hence still being up).

Upside - I dropped in behind a black cab 6km from home and as he actually obeyed the speed limit I was still just behind him as I turned off into my road. Not bad as there is an 80m climb in the middle.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: YahudaMoon on 11 March, 2011, 02:03:00 am
@ clarion. I love what your doing with the TfL. Is this Transport for London ?

Anyways how do you go about it ? What details do you need ? Evidence and such ?

I think I need to fight back more.

Thanks John
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 11 March, 2011, 02:28:01 am
John, I've been using this link:

http://www.tfl.gov.uk/modalpages/2605.aspx (http://www.tfl.gov.uk/modalpages/2605.aspx)

Click on Contact London Buses on the right hand panel and then select Make a complaint, then Buses, then Safety and Security.

You're then given a form which has entries for time, date and location; vehicle details, i.e. route, registration, destination; driver description; and a comment box to describe the incident. Only time, date and location are mandatory fields.

You're then given an option as to what form of communication you would prefer and then you enter your contact details.

In terms of buses you should be fortunate enough to have the on board cameras to corroborate your complaint. However, I think it's easier to make a stink with your own video. Trying to get witnesses to come forward from on board a bus or from a bus stop is pretty much pointless in my experience.

Oh, as I may as well. My last two days encounters with buses, both now reported:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qM5dLuDswjE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qM5dLuDswjE)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=77DCPq1EkVM (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=77DCPq1EkVM)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 11 March, 2011, 07:25:36 am
Well, that was..... interesting.
Commute home last evening was the slowest in many years!
Directly into the teeth of the first real gale of the year over the tops. I was having to struggle against the wind in the lowest granny gear on the flat and had to pedal to keep going downhill on a 1:8 ! :(
Almost 2 hours to do 22 miles - normally do it in less than 1:20.
I estimated the wind at over 40mph in places.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 11 March, 2011, 07:30:38 am
Quote from: rower40 on 10 March, 2011, 08:59:56 am
Having ridden tandem, commuter, then recumbent in to work on three successive days this week, I've decided to go for the full set.

Tourer today, Brompton tomorrow.

But this could get costly - the last time the tourer was used was the Yorkshire Puddings ride, and the chain has decided to go a crunchy shade of brown.  The brompton looks similar.  So I'm off to the LBS tonight to buy new transmissions for both.
Fell at the last hurdle!  The chain that the LBS sold me for the Brommie was a 1/8", but the one I've just taken off (driving the rivet all the way through, making re-attachment not-worth-the-effort) is a 3/32". I hope the shop will take the new one back, even though it's out of its box.  It's not been fitted to a bike at any time, just offered-up against the old chain to check for width.
So I've reverted to the reassuringly reliable rubber-band drive.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 11 March, 2011, 07:46:58 am
Crikey Ben, those were not pleasant at all!!!  Thanks very much for making the effort to upload and report them.

A week ago I had a completely different experience:

    YouTube
        - Good bus driver - 320 Bromley-Biggin Hill Valley
   (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dz_-xD9EJu0)

I thought that was good enough that I'd write an email to the bus depot complimenting them, and got this response:

Quote
Dear Wendy,

Many thanks for your kind comments about one of my staff who, it would appear, did what he is supposed to do, which is drive professionally, courteously and safely at all times.
It is nice to find that others appreciate the efforts of drivers who, in the main, do a very hard, stressful job, very well.
Thank you again and I will pass on your remarks to the Driver in question.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 March, 2011, 09:29:39 am
Always worth sending compliments rather than complaints, but I realise that a lot of what seems like kindness is actually just ordinary boring decent driving.

I've rung a few companies to make a mention.  They are always surprised when it's positive. ;D

ben/Yahuda: Yup, that's the route I use to register a complaint.  It's not worth the hassle to try doing it by phone - you're bound to miss something.  If it's a complex incident, I sometimes write a Word document to cut & paste so I know I've got it right before posting.

Useful information for reporting a bus: Route number, Registration, Time, Position, rough description of driver.  Although I have been told that the yellow plate number on the side of some buses is important to identifying the driver, TfL don't seem to think so.

Useful information for reporting black cabs: Don't bother unless it's going to make you feel like you;'ve done something.  The Public Carriage Office Will Not Act.  Nor will the Met.

There may be a value in a sticky for how to report incidents.  I know LFGSS have one on busses.

All that said, I spend an awful lot of time on bus-heavy roads, and have countless successful negotiations with them on every journey.  Most bus drivers in London seem to be very competent and considerate.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 11 March, 2011, 09:51:55 am
Thats a good response you got there Wendy!

I had a reasonably quickish commute in, apart from one girl who passed me near Deptford and then completely slowed down  ??? I guess she was not feeling as confident in traffic.

Everything was going smoothly until I reached the roundabout in Rotherhithe that leads to Jamaica Road. 2 motorcyclists had stopped and 1 female cyclist was lying on the floor. I pulled in to see if they needed anything and gave location details to the motorcyclist who was on the phone to the ambulance service. The motorcyclist and cyclist had collided with each other on the roundabout  :( She was in a lot of pain with her back and was feeling sick, poor thing. Before the ambulance arrived, a female motorcylist pulled in, turns out she was a doctor. Then 2 ambulances turn up. Situation was being handled.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 March, 2011, 09:54:14 am
Eek!  Good one for stopping to help. :)

Hope all turns out well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 11 March, 2011, 10:23:53 am
Nice one h_w!!  You're always a star to people in need.   :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Honest John on 11 March, 2011, 10:48:27 am
Quote from: little miss mac on 10 March, 2011, 10:53:59 am

The shoes are very white.

Not for long, they aren't.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Honest John on 11 March, 2011, 10:51:45 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 10 March, 2011, 03:24:11 pm
Picked this up from my twitter feed...this lady was assaulted whilst cycling in SE1 parts this morning.

Attacked this morning - any SE1 witnesses? (http://www.london-se1.co.uk/forum/read/1/137333)

That's awful. Especially since the woman was being so sensible and considerate.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 11 March, 2011, 07:42:26 pm
I kept up my record of walking in at least once a week - I was tempted to get a bus back, as it was starting to rain, but I saw it passing and decided not to bother.  It didn't really matter, as I caught it up down Yarm Road.  It's a wonderful flavour of schadenfreude, to be ambling along with no particular urgency and still to be able to keep up with the traffic which is impatiently jerking its way down the road. 

I nipped through the station to Victoria Road, which is the big advantage of walking  - being able to take shortcuts and semi-secret routes not possible with any other form of transport.  If I'd thought ahead, I could even have used the cut through St Paul's and the footbridge over the east coast main line.

I did feel a slight pang of jealousy as a new courier kid went blatting past the semi-stationary traffic.  I knew I should have applied for that job. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: YahudaMoon on 11 March, 2011, 10:06:20 pm
Hi Clarion, benborp.

I'.m oop north lad. So I'll be on the case for Greater Manchester Public Transport I think ? Something I need to look into.

As Bens helmet cam demostrates (thanks for your work Ben) I have had lots of these incidents about Manchester. On one occasion my pannier bag clipped the wheel arch of a bus. Help from the public was NONE. Answer from the puplic was 'don't use a bike then '
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 13 March, 2011, 03:50:52 am
And again. Another bus driver pulls into a bus stop despite my precarious existence between the bus and the kerb. Has anyone got contact details for Terry Gilliams gran?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: YahudaMoon on 13 March, 2011, 04:16:07 am
I found the correct page for complaints with Greater Manchester Public Transport GMPT

Some bus drivers are gonna be getting some words about there bad driving habits !



GMPTE.com - Corporate - Commenting on Services (http://www.gmpte.com/corporate/commenting_on_services.cfm?submenuheader=0)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 14 March, 2011, 09:38:39 am
That was a bit chilly. I'd started to think I'd seen the last of the ice for this year - until I got on the A64. Quite a few frozen puddles at side of the road, and lots of ice chips fallen off lorries.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 14 March, 2011, 09:42:32 am
My first cyclo-commute in three and a half weeks. Heaven. (Heaven too that I didn't spend the entire route trying to cough my lungs out.)

Chillier than I thought. Had to stop and put gloves on half the way there. I don't think I've ever had to do that before.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 14 March, 2011, 09:44:15 am
Bloody cold but I had lots of layers on.  No ice on the roads.  On the Orbea with 23mm tyres
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 14 March, 2011, 09:48:56 am
Started chilly & frosty but soon warmed up.  Miles of standing traffic to negotiate :(

Large groups of cyclists from Clapham northwards :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 14 March, 2011, 10:23:39 am
Saw frost on cars this morning but I didn't mind as it was bright enough to wear dark glasses.  8)
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Julian on 14 March, 2011, 11:02:08 am
My first commute since last year (only been in the new job for a few weeks).  Warm enough to get the legs and fingers out, although I've got long socks and long gloves for tonight.  According to google maps it's ten miles, and it took about an hour, which isn't bad considering how much time I spent low-speed filtering.

Something Bad has happened in Shepherd's Bush though - road closed, lots of blue lights. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 14 March, 2011, 11:07:00 am
Back on the bike after a week's holiday. Hell's teeth I feel unfit! But a lovely morning for a ride.

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 14 March, 2011, 11:50:47 am
First ride to work on the posh bike this year.

My word it feels so plush compared to the mountain bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moultonaught on 14 March, 2011, 12:30:10 pm
Nice commute in this morning, sunny, not too cold.  Most cars being nice...

Did my own variant of commuter racing this morning - after the roadie has overtaken you in the village at seemingly great speed - you see how much you can limit the getting totally dropped on the country road that follows

When we went our separate ways at a junction five miles later I was only about 1/4 of a mile behind. I was more than happy with that!  ;D

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 14 March, 2011, 12:40:26 pm
It was hard this morning.  After a long chain of failures and fettling I finally get to ride to work for the first time since November.  I am supposed to be a year round commuter but It seems I have inadvertently avoided the Winter.

Instead of pretending to be unfit I am unfit. I felt every little climb on my 16 mile ride in. I was very slow.  Will I be able to get up the last hill on the way home tonight?  Will I be exhausted by Friday?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 14 March, 2011, 01:28:56 pm
Cute lambs.  Very cute baby bunnies.

On a less cheery note the following train of thought was busy derailing itself all over my brain this morning... am I alone in finding this a slightly dispiriting time of year?  You've slogged over shitty roads in shittier weather all winter long and felt pretty damn good about it thinking that you're maintaining fitness and at the first sign of good weather you'll just breeze along.  Does it work like that? Does it cocoa.  Legs like melted cheese this morning.  Grumble, grumble, bloody grumble.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 14 March, 2011, 01:31:06 pm
That were a lovely ride in today - completely dispensed with full jacket and gloves, now giving way to jersey and mitts  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 14 March, 2011, 01:49:18 pm
Averaged 28.9kph over the 28.7km, so under an hour despite a headwind for most of the ride. I suspect it was the result of the nice weather, dry roads, not wearing much so needing to stay warm, a good night's sleep, and pushing down on the pedals harder. (c)Greenbank
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 14 March, 2011, 04:07:17 pm
Great to be back on the bike again this morning.  At one point comfortably cruised past a roadie in full team kit on a rather gaudy Ridley.  About five minutes later he returned the favour. :(  But I took comfort in the knowledge that, had I been on a lighter bike, he would have needed to go into racing mode to catch me.  :smug:
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 14 March, 2011, 04:47:26 pm
Do you know?  I've just experienced one of those rare "Tailwind out and back" days.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: welshwheels on 14 March, 2011, 04:53:25 pm
nice ride in nearly light by 5.45 this morning lovely ride home nothing to complain about . There is something nice about riding in normal clothes as the commute is only7 miles each way  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 14 March, 2011, 10:25:22 pm
Saw a damaged cyclist on the way home tonight. He was sitting up, so not seriously injured, was already surrounded, and an ambulance was on the way - so I didn't stop.

Best wishes to him though for a speedy recovery.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 14 March, 2011, 10:38:55 pm
Quote from: Julian on 14 March, 2011, 11:02:08 am
Something Bad has happened in Shepherd's Bush though - road closed, lots of blue lights. 

I think it might have been this. http://www.lfgss.com/thread61322.html (http://www.lfgss.com/thread61322.html)

Woman cyclist with apparently non life-threatening injuries. GWS!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 15 March, 2011, 09:03:51 am
Shorts!
;D
S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 15 March, 2011, 09:16:07 am
Ooh, fog.  I'm glad there wasn't so much traffic when I set off at 6:35, because I'll bet there was some fuckwittery on the roads this morning.

Nice to be back on the bike after a day as a ped.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 15 March, 2011, 09:21:42 am
Had a bacon and mushroom omelet for breakfast. The weather is warm so I thought I'd do my training protocol on the commute.  Got to the top of the penultimate hill, nicely warmed up and ready to try and beat my time up the hill past Wallaces farm when...my rear wheel went bang. 

The tyre has a cut in it 1cm long.  I booted it with a piece of plastic wrapper and gingerly finished riding to work.  Hopefully it will get me home too.  The tyre, a orange Michelin Pro Race (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=26458.msg879406#msg879406) has done less than 200 miles.  Shame, it looks preeeeddy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 15 March, 2011, 09:33:06 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 15 March, 2011, 09:21:42 am
Had a bacon and mushroom omelet for breakfast. The weather is warm so I thought I'd do my training protocol on the commute.  Got to the top of the penultimate hill, nicely warmed up and ready to try and beat my time up the hill past Wallaces farm when...my rear wheel went bang. 

The tyre has a cut in it 1cm long.  I booted it with a piece of plastic wrapper and gingerly finished riding to work.  Hopefully it will get me home too.  The tyre, a orange Michelin Pro Race (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=26458.msg879406#msg879406) has done less than 200 miles.  Shame, it looks preeeeddy.

This needs a separate poll, have you ever managed to wear a Pro Race 3 out or was it retired by damage.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 15 March, 2011, 10:52:47 am
As the song says, foggy day in London Town! Wall to wall traffic from Deptford up to Jamaica Road, they have closed off a section of the lane in both directions and it was rather crowdy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 15 March, 2011, 07:51:44 pm
It was clear this morning (and I did enjoy the mile-long tailback caused by the temporary traffic lights on Haughton Bridge), but misty and mizzly on the way back, poor visibility and greasy roads.  I nearly lost the rear wheel twice and the front wheel once.  

I had to do some shopping, but I was at the wrong entrance to the horriblemarket to lock my bike, so I simply walked it around the aisles.  Nobody batted an eyelid - I'll bet they've seen worse.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 16 March, 2011, 08:47:01 am
I cycled to the train station, all 600m. Better than walking. :-|
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 16 March, 2011, 09:23:28 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 15 March, 2011, 09:21:42 am

The tyre has a cut in it 1cm long.  I booted it with a piece of plastic wrapper and gingerly finished riding to work.  Hopefully it will get me home too.

...and...?

Quote from: SteveC on 15 March, 2011, 09:03:51 am
Shorts!
;D
S

Uvavu! Shorts! ;D indeed.  But only going home last night at 13o, not coming in this morning at 5o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 March, 2011, 09:32:26 am
Not shorts this morning, but I was rather warm.

Lovely ride, if it weren't for the heaps of scrap metal dumped in the middle of the roads getting in the way.  They even had people sat in them.  Most odd.

Felt fast, but I didn't make it within the hour - partly because I'm still unwell, but mainly because of those bloody drivers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 16 March, 2011, 10:40:12 am
A rather quiet morning, but spoiled by a two incidents.

Bloke on the white Willier with deep rim wheels jumped a red light in front of me (no danger to me - he did it during the pedestrian phase).  One thing cheered me: he looked my way after I expressed my opinion on his road skills.  Good to know he heard me.  :demon:  I've seen him before and can't say I've ever been been impressed.

A motorist cut across me as he jumped a red light.  I 'digitally' expressed my opinion of his lack of regard for the LAW.  I know he understood the message as I saw him shouting at me - through a closed window ::-) - as he made his turn.  It's a reaction I'll never understand: do something wrong, get caught, vent furiously at the person who caught you.  ???
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 March, 2011, 10:41:36 am
I always take it as an admission of guilt.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 16 March, 2011, 10:42:26 am
Quote from: Andrij on 16 March, 2011, 10:40:12 am
.  It's a reaction I'll never understand: do something wrong, get caught, vent furiously at the person who caught you.  ???
 

litlle dick man syndrome
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 16 March, 2011, 11:33:50 am
I saw a guy in a Volvo this morning, who's driving was exemplary, but clearly he was not having a good day. He was clearly indicating right, had a clear junction, but had to do a near emergency stop to avoid the Borris Bike who had decided to nip up his inside and go straight on.
Volvo man then carried on up the road, only to find the car he had stopped behind was actually intending to reverse into a parking space, but hadn't indicated. Cue lots of reversing and juggling lanes. The poor guy was a nervous wreck by the time I arrived alongside him.

Nice day for a bike ride though...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 16 March, 2011, 11:37:40 am
Quote from: Nuncio on 16 March, 2011, 09:23:28 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 15 March, 2011, 09:21:42 am

The tyre has a cut in it 1cm long.  I booted it with a piece of plastic wrapper and gingerly finished riding to work.  Hopefully it will get me home too.

...and...?



I made it home.  It was a loverly evening with a low red sun and little fluffy lambs in the fields

On the Roadrat today.  I'll sort out the Orbea at the weekend
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 March, 2011, 11:50:34 am
Quote from: alexb on 16 March, 2011, 11:33:50 am
Nice day for a bike ride though...

Repeat daily. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 17 March, 2011, 07:51:09 am
*Does happy dance*

There was white paint all over the road between the top of Fowler's Hill in Quenington and the end of Hambidge Lane in Lechlade last night.

It's still there this morning.

Every single pothole, even the small ones, for about 5 miles is marked up for repair and, it gets better, this isn't just your circles of paint that indicate a dab of low grade toffee will be dolloped over the crater.  This white paint is your proper "road plane the surface off and reinstate it properly" white paint.

*Continues happy dance*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 17 March, 2011, 08:21:07 am
How can you tell the difference between the different types of white paint?

Saw the person I think is Audaxer Peter Mennicke by Morriston Hospital as I was on my commute this morning.  Didn't realize it was him initially and then after he'd gone by in the other direction I started thinking that I should turn round and catch him up but then, just because it was definitely the person I think is Peter Mennicke it doesn't necessarily make him Peter Mennicke; and I'd probably have to shout something like 'Hey Peter!' to make him stop and that plan depended on his being either the Peter Mennicke or even a Peter.  By then I worked out that it was too late and if I'd turned round he'd have gone down 1 of three routes by the time I'd got into the hypothetical 'Hey Peter' hailing distance.  So I carried on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 17 March, 2011, 08:22:52 am
There was a time when I'd have sat left here, and then likely been passed at speed.  Not yesterday though, I took the lane and stayed in the middle, braking when I thought he wouldn't stop at first.  The driver was annoyed - although I think he had no reason to be.


    YouTube
        - Take the lane or be passed at speed..
   (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XfxW-i6mgEM)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 17 March, 2011, 08:46:23 am
Quote from: Nuncio on 17 March, 2011, 08:21:07 am
How can you tell the difference between the different types of white paint?
<snip>
Style of marking.   "Dollop marks" are just an irregular polygon around the crater to be "fixed".  Area resurfacing marks look not unlike square brackets at the start and end of the section to be planed. The width varies according to the width of the section to be resurfaced.  Sometimes with an arrow head to indicate which side of the "bracket" is to be redone.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Honest John on 17 March, 2011, 09:26:13 am
Quote from: jogler on 16 March, 2011, 10:42:26 am
Quote from: Andrij on 16 March, 2011, 10:40:12 am
.  It's a reaction I'll never understand: do something wrong, get caught, vent furiously at the person who caught you.  ???
 

litlle dick man syndrome

Usually combined with an attempt to tell you that you were in the wrong, not matter how legally and sensibly you were behaving.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 17 March, 2011, 09:34:50 am
My chain snapped 4 miles in to the journey this morning. Just at an ordinary link, not the powerlink. Popped a link out and rejoined using my cranks tool, but couldn't get the rivet seated perfectly. New chain time, methinks.

In Leeds, a cyclist sails past me through a red light (I was waiting at the head of the queue). "Helloooo, red light" I sing out. He rolls through the next one as well (100m ahead).

I passed him 200m further on and stopped at the next set of lights. Sure enough, he sails past me "Do you know what red lights are for?" I call out.
He turns round, and with a face like he's had 10 pints of lager and his football team lost, screams "You, get a fucking helmet!".
Some people are wierd.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 17 March, 2011, 09:36:33 am
That made me laugh, mrcharly!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 17 March, 2011, 09:39:14 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 17 March, 2011, 09:34:50 am
I passed him 200m further on and stopped at the next set of lights. Sure enough, he sails past me "Do you know what red lights are for?" I call out.
He turns round, and with a face like he's had 10 pints of lager and his football team lost, screams "You, get a fucking helmet!".
Some people are wierd.

 ::-)I had one cyclist pass me, I yelled 'Reeeeeed' and watched him gun through the red lights, just as this little old lady was crossing the road  >:( W*nker of the Day.

Has anybody else read 'Wanker 101' blog? Brilliantly written.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 17 March, 2011, 09:45:06 am
I had to offer some practical advice to an RLJer today. Having sailed through a red he stopped half way across. Problem. From where he was stopped he couldn't see the lights change. So he doesn't get going until all the traffic is thundering past him.

I pulled alongside and suggested that if he does RLJ he might want to consider stopping somewhere he can at least see the light.

Blank stare ahead. No acknowledgement. I tried again.

"What ?"

I gave in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 March, 2011, 10:01:59 am
I had bad friday legs this morning.

At least, it felt like it, but I ended up with a good average speed.  I think the amount of surprisingly clear road in between queues of traffic and numpty manoeuvres, coupled with a lucky run on traffic lights, helped.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 17 March, 2011, 10:06:39 am
Quote from: clarion on 17 March, 2011, 10:01:59 am
I had bad friday legs this morning.
It's Thursday.
You are going to suffer tomorrow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 March, 2011, 10:08:29 am
I know.  I sometimes get friday legs on monday, though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 17 March, 2011, 05:18:48 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 17 March, 2011, 09:34:50 am
screams "You, get a fucking helmet!".


is it going to be compulsory to wear one when fucking then? or with the emphasis on slightly different dickshun diction you could say that nature has equiped you with one,permenantly
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 March, 2011, 08:44:57 pm
I forgot to mention that yesterday I was doored.

OK, I accept that I shouldn't have been trusting the magic blue paint, but I was tested hard when a door was flung open right in front of me, blocking the way completely.  I stopped, and my front wheel nudged the doortrim.

The passenger was very apologetic, and I advised her to be more careful in future.  I think she will be.

This evening, the cyclist in front of me almost got hit by a woman keen to leap out into the traffic on the A3.  He gave her a warning, but she gave him such a dirty look, I told her she was responsible for looking.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 17 March, 2011, 08:59:57 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 17 March, 2011, 07:51:09 am
*Does happy dance*

There was white paint all over the road between the top of Fowler's Hill in Quenington and the end of Hambidge Lane in Lechlade last night.

It's still there this morning.

Every single pothole, even the small ones, for about 5 miles is marked up for repair and, it gets better, this isn't just your circles of paint that indicate a dab of low grade toffee will be dolloped over the crater.  This white paint is your proper "road plane the surface off and reinstate it properly" white paint.

*Continues happy dance*

They've done that along my commute in Witham recently too  :thumbsup:.  All of my "favourite" potholes and areas of broken tarmac are properly marked up with the rectangular bracketing and numbered.  They also all seem to have the number "40" in them as well as their unique number (depth to cut to/plane off?   ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 17 March, 2011, 09:47:31 pm
Quote from: Oaky on 17 March, 2011, 08:59:57 pm
They also all seem to have the number "40" in them as well as their unique number
That's the first two digits of the year that they're going to repair them. ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 17 March, 2011, 11:26:56 pm
Quote from: clarion on 17 March, 2011, 08:44:57 pm
I forgot to mention that yesterday I was doored.

Dooring seems to be flavour of the day. I had an odd deliberate attempted dooring yesterday morning. I was filtering down the outside of a lane of stationary traffic. Just as I was passing a car the driver's door was thrown open in my path. I was riding out too wide for it to be a problem though and just passed by. The last I saw when looking back was the driver standing in the middle of the road waving his fist at me and shouting something about he wouldn't miss next time. It was rather odd behaviour really, deliberately trying to get your door damaged. I can only think that it was caused by his frustration of having to sit 10 minutes in a queue whilst cycles filter past.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 March, 2011, 09:12:23 am
How odd.  I've not seen a deliberate attempt in a long while (and I don't think it's ever been done to me deliberately).

But I am definitely seeing more people leaping out of cars & vans in the middle of the road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 18 March, 2011, 09:35:56 am
A bit wet coming in this morning
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 18 March, 2011, 10:22:15 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 18 March, 2011, 09:35:56 am
A bit wet coming in this morning

I was thinking that they had got the weather forecast wrong and then 2 miles into the commute it started raining, but it was quite light.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gattopardo on 18 March, 2011, 06:22:22 pm
Wet, very annoying and I got a visit from the fairy.  Whilst looking at the tyre, trying to figure out what was going on, got left hooked by a car/mpv thing and managed to wind myself and pass out.  Woke up after ambulance was called. It was only a few minutes, to be conscious again.

Managed to catch my danglies on the handle bar so they are a little bruised and tender.  So need to go back in a few days if the swelling hasn't gone down..interesting being fondled by two men was not the most enjoyable experience.

Still got to fettle the wheel but I don't feel like it at the mo.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Simonb on 18 March, 2011, 06:26:00 pm
Taxi nearly wiped me out. Overtook me and took my turning as I was turning right into it. I know he saw me because I heard him rev to get past.

Wanker.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 March, 2011, 07:32:04 pm
Really fast ride home. Must have been a tailwind.

*checks*

Oh.  Not really, no.  I must just be a fast rider today :thumbsup: ;D

And there was a beautiful pink & blue sky at about 1800-1815.  And a kestrel hovering over Mitcham Common.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 18 March, 2011, 10:07:14 pm
Quote from: clarion on 18 March, 2011, 07:32:04 pm
And there was a beautiful pink & blue sky at about 1800-1815. 

Gorgeous, wasn't it. By the time I was on my way home the sun had set but the sky was clear and luminous, with that pink haze sinking over London on my right as I crossed Chelsea Bridge, and a full moon tracking the river on the other side. Heavenly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 18 March, 2011, 10:33:14 pm
I can't wait for my ride tomorrow, it's supposed to be sunny, and warm later. Let's hope the giant moon doesn't bring out too much lunacy - at least I'm coming back before dark.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 19 March, 2011, 12:20:42 am
6000 candle power front light and a pedestrian blithely RAN out in front of me as I'm doing 20mph. Praise Dawes brakes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 19 March, 2011, 02:15:43 am
Driving school car dual controls FTW.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 21 March, 2011, 08:19:48 am
Sympathy to all you poor sods who have to deal with the urban nightmare.  I had black rabbits, skylarks and even a little bit of a tailwind today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 21 March, 2011, 09:06:22 am
Back on the bike for the first time since breaking my wrist at Christmas.  What a fantastic feeling and what a great day to be returning to proper commuting after three months of squeezing onto trains.  It took about half a mile for the legs to warm up and all the old techniques to kick back in, then it was back to sailing past slow moving cars, trying to time my arrival at the lights for just that moment when they change and accelerating past everyone in the ASL.  My karma was so calmed by the whole experieince that not even the mercedes that turned right, across my path, while indicating left raised my blood pressure.

Already looking forward eagerly to this evening and maybe stretching the route with a little diversion through Greenwich Park.  Wheeeee!  ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 21 March, 2011, 09:08:40 am
It seemed to be complete madness on Saturday, some crazy overtakes, one across double white lines and into a blind corner, the other into oncoming traffic.  A dial-a-ride driver ran a red light, and I had a close call on Lewisham roundabout with I think a rushing driver missing me in his A-frame pillar.

Yesterday was much nicer, not only a faster ride, but nothing of note apart from seeing one driver on his mobile phone.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 21 March, 2011, 09:17:14 am
Strange about the dooring as if you hit it, the door gets bent against the hinges and won't close and if going at speed you may get thrown into the car (experience!). Rode partway in with someone who I haven't seen for a couple of month and he is training for pbp. He is riding from Mcr to Kidderminster this weekend (and back) for the Elenith - top man!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 21 March, 2011, 09:22:10 am
No jacket for the first time this year. Cool but pleasant.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 21 March, 2011, 09:26:52 am
Pleasant ride in on my speedily-repaird fixed.  Random things:

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 21 March, 2011, 10:00:23 am
Oh, and this aggressive little sod:


    YouTube
        - BX54NPE pushes through
   (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IgsCRJTODKU)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 21 March, 2011, 10:03:40 am
I learnt several things on today's commute (the first for ages)

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 21 March, 2011, 10:06:09 am
The Alfine-8 shifter is the backwards one. The 11 is the same as normal derailleur shifters. Of course you fixed wheel riders get confused by gears...

;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 21 March, 2011, 10:57:16 am
Quote from: LittleWheelsandBig on 21 March, 2011, 10:06:09 am
The Alfine-8 shifter is the backwards one. The 11 is the same as normal derailleur shifters. Of course you fixed wheel riders get confused by gears...

;)
There's more than a grain of truth to that, actually.
In the past I've generally used bar-end shifters or old-skool thumbies, meaning that anything vaguely STI-ish has the potential to confuse the hell out of me :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 21 March, 2011, 11:05:12 am
Quote from: interzen on 21 March, 2011, 10:03:40 am
  • Hydraulic disc brakes are really rather good

Yes but have a faff factor that is off the scale when it finally comes time to fettle and the cost of the bleed kit and new pads is more than an entire new unit, hence my return to cables.[/list]
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 21 March, 2011, 11:22:43 am
Quote from: Si_Co on 21 March, 2011, 11:05:12 am
Quote from: interzen on 21 March, 2011, 10:03:40 am
  • Hydraulic disc brakes are really rather good

Yes but have a faff factor that is off the scale when it finally comes time to fettle and the cost of the bleed kit and new pads is more than an entire new unit, hence my return to cables.[/list]
I've done a few 'pad change drills' and find it far less hassle than the seemingly endless fettling that goes with V-brakes and cantis, and given that the bike in question is going to be used as a tourer having the extra stopping power of hydraulics is a definite plus. I won't be saying that if/when something goes bottom-over-breasts, though.

I have kept the V-brake bosses, though, and am running rims which aren't disc specific so if I do have to fall back to V-brakes then I'm able to do so. 'Genuine' Shimano pads are a bit pricy, but the bleed kit is only about a tenner, which is nice.

TBH, I'm more concerned about doing the 1000 mile oil change on the Alfine hub :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 21 March, 2011, 11:27:20 am
Knee warmers!  Reasonably brisk despite 220k yesterday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sigod on 21 March, 2011, 03:15:07 pm
Spent the morning dodging toddlers and doggies on Tooting Common, intent upon throwing themselves into my path. Both appear to have a deathwish lately.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 21 March, 2011, 03:49:22 pm
On the way in, saw a roadie wearing the full matching jersey and shorts outfit, combined with spotless white arm and legwarmers. Never seen anything so camp in my life. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 21 March, 2011, 04:15:14 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 21 March, 2011, 03:49:22 pm
On the way in, saw a roadie wearing the full matching jersey and shorts outfit, combined with spotless white arm and legwarmers. Never seen anything so camp in my life. 

I think we owe it to the great tradition of cycling to look as camp as xmas at all opportunities

I certainly was pleased to get outside in a skin tight pink SS campag jersey at the weekend
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 21 March, 2011, 04:42:48 pm
Quote from: vorsprung on 21 March, 2011, 04:15:14 pm
I think we owe it to the great tradition of cycling to look as camp as xmas at all opportunities

I certainly was pleased to get outside in a skin tight pink SS campag jersey at the weekend

Quite.  It is now warm enough for me to wear my Captain America (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Cycling-Skinsuit-sleeves-VINTAGE-BLUE_collection/dp/B00378HISE/ref=sr_1_7?s=sports&ie=UTF8&qid=1300725715&sr=1-7) suit again.

(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51SsmgPmkEL._AA300_.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Honest John on 21 March, 2011, 05:35:02 pm
Quote from: sigod on 21 March, 2011, 03:15:07 pm
Spent the morning dodging toddlers and doggies on Tooting Common, intent upon throwing themselves into my path. Both appear to have a deathwish lately.

See also Flinching pedestrians (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=45170.0).

The dog-emptiers of Tuten Khamen are particularly militant. There was one local who used to deliberately walk into passing cyclists or drape his shit-factory's lead across the path. He once grabbed the handlebars of a friend of mine who was riding along minding her own business. Since she was about half his size this was Not Nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 21 March, 2011, 05:41:45 pm
Quote from: Honest John on 21 March, 2011, 05:35:02 pm
drape his shit-factory's lead across the path.

I bet he'd try that only once on my bike.  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Honest John on 21 March, 2011, 05:43:00 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 21 March, 2011, 03:49:22 pm
On the way in, saw a roadie wearing the full matching jersey and shorts outfit, combined with spotless white arm and legwarmers. Never seen anything so camp in my life. 

I saw someone "dressed" like that in Clerkenwell (of course) the other day.

Probably not your bloke, since your profile says "Yorkshire".

There are good reasons why cycling kit from the waist down is generally black.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 22 March, 2011, 10:10:46 am
What a perfect ride in today I thought. Nothing has spoilt it! Thought too soon.

I was cycling from Cannon Street towards St Paul's and went through the traffic lights, could hear a taxi behind me. He then pulls alongside me. I continue straight. He then starts bearing left into me. I thought 'this is it' whilst screaming as loudly as I could. I don't know how close he was, but the passengers turned around toward me and I could see how aghast they were. Pulled into the side of the road and started sobbing. Woman comes up to me and puts an arm around me.

The homeopathic students were great today, one of them administered rescue remedy and another bought me coffee and croissant.

I'm so cross with myself, I only got a partial registration 'V528'. The thing is even if I did, there is this sense of futility that nothing would be done about it, and the driver would not even get a bollocking.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Alouicious on 22 March, 2011, 10:17:35 am
Five cars overtook me in the first ten miles.

I had a 'Suicide Bambi' run out of the hedge.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 22 March, 2011, 10:19:16 am
h_w, that's really rotten, poor you. I'm glad someone gave you a hug on the road when you were tearful - so often no one gives a toss.

Big ethereal hugs to you from this direction.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 March, 2011, 10:26:37 am
Oh gosh, h_w!  How horrible.  Chase it up with the PCO.  Even part of a reg could identify a vehicle.

Also ask Police about CCTV in the area...

*hugs*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Alouicious on 22 March, 2011, 10:27:17 am
5th Golden of cycling.

"Always get out of the way of a vehicle travelling directly toward you".

If his centre of gravity is getting closer to your centre of gravity, that means he's travelling directly toward you.

Get out of the way! Even if it means throwing out an anchor.

There's no point ending up 'pavement mincemeat' just to prove something. The only thing you will prove is your arms and legs break easier than a car's fender.

As a matter of fact, the taxi was approaching you from the right, so you should have given way to him.

Who let him get into that position?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 22 March, 2011, 10:36:57 am
You're presuming quite a bit there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 22 March, 2011, 10:37:08 am
With any luck, the cabbie's passengers will have said something to the driver. Did you have railings alongside you?

Alouicious, you are talking a load of twaddle. The cab was overtaking and therefore was obliged to ensure it gave enough room. Go read the highway code.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 22 March, 2011, 11:00:48 am
H_W - large hugs, and lots of cake, from this way too.

You know, I really really really try to avoid the inflammatory stuff on here because life is too short, and it only reinforces the untimately depressing viewpoint that everything is futile and pointless, and I do try to keep up the Mary Poppins-esque cheeriness as much as possible but today I'm in a particularly bad mood so I have to ask... Alouicious, are you sometimes such a complete twat to people in real life, or is it just online?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 22 March, 2011, 11:05:12 am
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 22 March, 2011, 11:00:48 am
H_W - large hugs, and lots of cake, from this way too.

You know, I really really really try to avoid the inflammatory stuff on here because life is too short, and it only reinforces the untimately depressing viewpoint that everything is futile and pointless, and I do try to keep up the Mary Poppins-esque cheeriness as much as possible but today I'm in a particularly bad mood so I have to ask... Alouicious, are you sometimes such a complete twat to people in real life, or is it just online?

+1

Plenty of hugs for you h_w, and I hope some nice CAEK too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Alouicious on 22 March, 2011, 11:05:52 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 22 March, 2011, 10:37:08 am
With any luck, the cabbie's passengers will have said something to the driver. Did you have railings alongside you?

Alouicious, you are talking a load of twaddle. The cab was overtaking and therefore was obliged to ensure it gave enough room. Go read the highway code.

I know the HC....

The cabbie was obviously a jerk, so there is this :-

168

Being overtaken. If a driver is trying to overtake you, maintain a steady course and speed, slowing down if necessary to let the vehicle pass. Never obstruct drivers who wish to pass. Speeding up or driving unpredictably while someone is overtaking you is dangerous. Drop back to maintain a two-second gap if someone overtakes and pulls into the gap in front of you.

"slowing down if necessary to let the vehicle pass" is as good as "Give way to an overtaking vehicle".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 March, 2011, 11:08:18 am
You are a twat, aren't you?  it's taken you that long to find a paragraph from the HC, and you didn't notice that h_w obeyed it?

You silly bear!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jaded on 22 March, 2011, 11:10:01 am
Quote from: clarion on 22 March, 2011, 11:08:18 am
You are a twat, aren't you?

+1

Alovicious.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Alouicious on 22 March, 2011, 11:11:55 am
Quote from: clarion on 22 March, 2011, 11:08:18 am
You are a twat, aren't you?  it's taken you that long to find a paragraph from the HC, and you didn't notice that h_w obeyed it?

You silly bear!

Not entirely...

Get this.

147
Be considerate. Be careful of and considerate towards all types of road users, especially those requiring extra care (see Rule 204). You should

  --  try to be understanding if other road users cause problems; they may be inexperienced or not know the area well

  --  be patient; remember that anyone can make a mistake

  --  not allow yourself to become agitated or involved if someone is behaving badly on the road. This will only make the situation worse. Pull over, calm down and, when you feel relaxed, continue your journey

  --  slow down and hold back if a road user pulls out into your path at a junction. Allow them to get clear. Do not over-react by driving too close behind to intimidate them

  --  not throw anything out of a vehicle, for example, cigarette ends, cans, paper or carrier bags. This can endanger other road users, particularly motorcyclists and cyclists



Don't start tittle-tattling about time. I've got a job to do here. Not like some folks who can scan these boards at 2 Hz and not lift a tap at their dayjob.  :-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 22 March, 2011, 11:16:32 am
Quote from: Alouicious on 22 March, 2011, 11:11:55 am
Pull over, calm down and, when you feel relaxed, continue your journey

Which is exactly what h_w did.  Why do you feel the need to be so nasty today?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jaded on 22 March, 2011, 11:16:45 am
You really do lack any empathy or understanding, don't you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 22 March, 2011, 11:20:06 am
The real world is exactly that, not HypothetiCal.  HW is responding to what actually happened.  That there was no contact is a blessing but it is similar to a complete stranger swinging a punch at you but just happening to miss.  Shock ensues - it is a body's natural reaction, surely?  Hugs and commiserations are in order, not ill-timed "education", which should be for the cab-driver, anyway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 22 March, 2011, 11:20:52 am
Quote from: Jaded on 22 March, 2011, 11:16:45 am
You really do lack any empathy or understanding, don't you.

He does, but don't let it bother you.  Use the ignore feature!

profile, "ignore user options" in the box type Alouicious and click "change profile"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 22 March, 2011, 11:22:15 am
Quote from: Peter on 22 March, 2011, 11:20:06 am
The real world is exactly that, not HypothetiCal.  HW is responding to what actually happened.  That there was no contact is a blessing but it is similar to a complete stranger swinging a punch at you but just happening to miss.  Shock ensues - it is a body's natural reaction, surely?  Hugs and commiserations are in order, not ill-timed "education", which should be for the cab-driver, anyway.


Not just that, but it sounds to me like h_w did everything by the book in that situation, despite Alouicidiot's insinuations to the contrary.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 22 March, 2011, 11:26:06 am
Quote from: Wendy on 22 March, 2011, 11:22:15 am
Quote from: Peter on 22 March, 2011, 11:20:06 am
The real world is exactly that, not HypothetiCal.  HW is responding to what actually happened.  That there was no contact is a blessing but it is similar to a complete stranger swinging a punch at you but just happening to miss.  Shock ensues - it is a body's natural reaction, surely?  Hugs and commiserations are in order, not ill-timed "education", which should be for the cab-driver, anyway.


Not just that, but it sounds to me like h_w did everything by the book in that situation, despite Alouicidiot's insinuations to the contrary.

Certainly, that's how I saw it, too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Alouicious on 22 March, 2011, 11:32:32 am
Oh...

I appologise.

Trucks, vans and cabbies encroaching on a cyclist's roadspace is one of those nasty realities we have to put up with.

You did right by stopping, but don't let it bother you. You will no doubt see it again many times. Just drop back, give him the finger and carry on.

Many appologies.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 22 March, 2011, 11:33:38 am
Sounds awful, HW, and I hope you're feeling a bit better now.  That's a horrible bit of road because drivers tend to accelerate in the excitement of having escaped the Cannon Street Funnel of Death (from London Bridge to Queen Street).  Even so, there's no excuse for dangerous driving of the sort you describe (and, in my experience, it's unusual for a London cabbie to do that).  Being charitable, it's probably a lack of concentration rather than any deliberate act of aggression, which i think even the most deranged cabbie would be unlikely to try with passengers in the back.  I hope they didn't tip him.

I hope it hasbn't bashed your confidence for the ride hime but if it has, I work around there and will be cycling back to Lewisham tonight about 6, so let me know if you'd like some company on the route.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Honest John on 22 March, 2011, 11:36:48 am
Hugs to h_w and, Alouicious, just sod off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: origamist on 22 March, 2011, 11:37:51 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 22 March, 2011, 11:20:52 am
Quote from: Jaded on 22 March, 2011, 11:16:45 am
You really do lack any empathy or understanding, don't you.

He does, but don't let it bother you.  Use the ignore feature!

profile, "ignore user options" in the box type Alouicious and click "change profile"

Usually with attention seekers the best way to deal with them is to try to understand what drives their behavior (lack of self worth, over-confidence/arrogance, narcissism etc) and then work towards helping them. However, I don't have the time for a bit of cod-psychological, interweb investigation today, so I'll just wish h_w all the best...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pcolbeck on 22 March, 2011, 11:43:06 am
Take care H_W, hope you have recovered your composure. Sod the diluted stuff I think you should award yourself a double brandy after an incident like that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 22 March, 2011, 11:55:36 am
Thanks guys for the positive messages, I feel much better for it, the chocolate croissant and latte has also settled me.

mrcharly - I cannot remember if there were any railings, possibly to my left as I was cycling through the junction.

My manager calmed me down and gave me some practical advice. I have registered a complaint with the PCO. I am also going to establish if there is any CCTV footage. It is a busy junction so I would imagine there is. My husband is taking me into town on Saturday so we can reccie out the cameras.

It's 2 hours after the incident and I am still shaking  :-[

Alouicious = FAIL

Redlight, thanks so much for the offer to ride back with me, I am finishing work at 7p.m. and I don't want to keep you waiting!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 22 March, 2011, 11:57:22 am
Quote from: sigod on 21 March, 2011, 03:15:07 pm
Spent the morning dodging toddlers and doggies on Tooting Common, intent upon throwing themselves into my path. Both appear to have a deathwish lately.

Oh how true that is at the moment! What is it with dog owners on Tooting Bec?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 22 March, 2011, 12:00:06 pm
Quote from: Alouicious on 22 March, 2011, 11:32:32 am
Oh...

I appologise.

Trucks, vans and cabbies encroaching on a cyclist's roadspace is one of those nasty realities we have to put up with.

You did right by stopping, but don't let it bother you. You will no doubt see it again many times. Just drop back, give him the finger and carry on.

Many appologies.

Al, it's good to apologise.  Maybe take a bit more time?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 22 March, 2011, 12:40:41 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 22 March, 2011, 11:55:36 am
Redlight, thanks so much for the offer to ride back with me, I am finishing work at 7p.m. and I don't want to keep you waiting!

OK, so long as you're OK.  I'd be happy to stay on a bit later (I don't work set hours) if you're nervous, but I would prefer to get home in time to do bedtime stories  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 22 March, 2011, 12:44:19 pm
You know what to do her_welshness.  Move back to Swansea where the cabbies are all angels.

Lovely commute this morning.  It was cold down the hill at the start but warm enough when the blood had started pumping a bit, so I extended the commute by a couple of miles and ended up having to queue for the showers.  There are only two and the fair-weather cyclists chose today to start their commuting.  The more the merrier - I'll just have to try and cycle faster.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 22 March, 2011, 12:52:50 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 22 March, 2011, 12:40:41 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 22 March, 2011, 11:55:36 am
Redlight, thanks so much for the offer to ride back with me, I am finishing work at 7p.m. and I don't want to keep you waiting!

OK, so long as you're OK.  I'd be happy to stay on a bit later (I don't work set hours) if you're nervous, but I would prefer to get home in time to do bedtime stories  :)

Ahh thats very kind of your Redlight, but I think I will be fine  :-* After 7p.m. it tends to be more relaxing  ;D

I have to say that the junction in the opposite direction is nearly as bad (going from St Paul's Churchyard onto Cannon Street) you have to assertively hold the road otherwise the cabbies are happy to ping you off to the left  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 22 March, 2011, 12:54:20 pm
Quote from: Nuncio on 22 March, 2011, 12:44:19 pm
You know what to do her_welshness.  Move back to Swansea where the cabbies are all angels.

I would agree with that, they all seem to be 'cowing lush'  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 22 March, 2011, 01:14:55 pm
I think you must mean "cowin' lush".  Your accent must have changed what with living in That London.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 22 March, 2011, 01:17:43 pm
Quote from: Alouicious on 22 March, 2011, 10:27:17 am
5th Golden of cycling.

"Always get out of the way of a vehicle travelling directly toward you".

If his centre of gravity is getting closer to your centre of gravity, that means he's travelling directly toward you.

Get out of the way! Even if it means throwing out an anchor.

There's no point ending up 'pavement mincemeat' just to prove something. The only thing you will prove is your arms and legs break easier than a car's fender.

As a matter of fact, the taxi was approaching you from the right, so you should have given way to him.

Who let him get into that position?

Congratulations - you are the first person EVER to find their way onto my ignore list.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 22 March, 2011, 01:26:15 pm
Extreme sympathy to h_w for a horrible experience.  I think you did exactly the right thing in (a) informing cabbie and his customers of the danger as loudly as possible, (b) avoiding a collision, and (c) stopping to collect yourself before continuing your journey.  Shame not to get the plate, but your here and unharmed.

On a more positive note, I fixed someone's snapped chain in true Bicycle Repair Man style, but with the modern twist of latex gloves and compact link removing tool.  Bit late for work, but nothing compared to how late he'd have been if he'd have done what he intended: walk to the nearest bike shop (8am, Colliers Wood).

More generally, has anyone else noticed sociability blossoming with the Spring.  Through the Winter I've been through weeks at a time without exchanging a word with a soul.  In the last week I've been spoken to (they started it) by a lady on a Pederson, man on a 'bent, man with 100" single speed, three people asking about my 'guards (they are very exotic), another lady asking about Carradice, and four or five regulars who I haven't seen for a while.  Cool!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 22 March, 2011, 01:29:24 pm
Quote from: Nuncio on 22 March, 2011, 01:14:55 pm
I think you must mean "cowin' lush".  Your accent must have changed what with living in That London.

Sorry Nuncio  :-[ The accent has changed, but I can assure you that I come from real glam parts of Swansea, like Penlan and Blaen-y-maes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Honest John on 22 March, 2011, 01:30:05 pm
The problem is that drivers, and the GBP in general (including the strangely-spelled Alouicious) have absolutely no concept of how frightening and upsetting incidents such as her_welshness' are.

This sort of thing is enough to put the timid off cycling and should be dealt with severely by the authorities. Not that it will be.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: origamist on 22 March, 2011, 01:50:41 pm
Quote from: Chris L on 22 March, 2011, 01:26:15 pm

More generally, has anyone else noticed sociability blossoming with the Spring.  Through the Winter I've been through weeks at a time without exchanging a word with a soul.  In the last week I've been spoken to (they started it) by a lady on a Pederson, man on a 'bent, man with 100" single speed, three people asking about my 'guards (they are very exotic), another lady asking about Carradice, and four or five regulars who I haven't seen for a while.  Cool!

*Shot in the dark*

Do you have wooden mudguards and commute along CS7?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 22 March, 2011, 01:53:02 pm
Quote from: origamist on 22 March, 2011, 01:50:41 pm
Quote from: Chris L on 22 March, 2011, 01:26:15 pm

More generally, has anyone else noticed sociability blossoming with the Spring.  Through the Winter I've been through weeks at a time without exchanging a word with a soul.  In the last week I've been spoken to (they started it) by a lady on a Pederson, man on a 'bent, man with 100" single speed, three people asking about my 'guards (they are very exotic), another lady asking about Carradice, and four or five regulars who I haven't seen for a while.  Cool!

*Shot in the dark*

Do you have wooden mudguards and commute along CS7?

A direct hit!  I do!  They're classy zebra wood, made in Oregon.  Fixed to my very shiny Cliff Shrubb.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 March, 2011, 01:59:26 pm
Quote from: Chris L on 22 March, 2011, 01:26:15 pm
More generally, has anyone else noticed sociability blossoming with the Spring.  Through the Winter I've been through weeks at a time without exchanging a word with a soul.  In the last week I've been spoken to (they started it) by a lady on a Pederson, man on a 'bent, man with 100" single speed, three people asking about my 'guards (they are very exotic), another lady asking about Carradice, and four or five regulars who I haven't seen for a while.  Cool!

There's this nice man on a Cliff Shrubb occasionally talks to me. ;D

And a guy on a Charge Plug who says hi as he zooms past... ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: origamist on 22 March, 2011, 02:02:14 pm
Quote from: Chris L on 22 March, 2011, 01:53:02 pm
Quote from: origamist on 22 March, 2011, 01:50:41 pm
Quote from: Chris L on 22 March, 2011, 01:26:15 pm

More generally, has anyone else noticed sociability blossoming with the Spring.  Through the Winter I've been through weeks at a time without exchanging a word with a soul.  In the last week I've been spoken to (they started it) by a lady on a Pederson, man on a 'bent, man with 100" single speed, three people asking about my 'guards (they are very exotic), another lady asking about Carradice, and four or five regulars who I haven't seen for a while.  Cool!

*Shot in the dark*

Do you have wooden mudguards and commute along CS7?

A direct hit!  I do!  They're classy zebra wood, made in Oregon.  Fixed to my very shiny Cliff Shrubb.


I thought so! We've chatted in the past. I'm the tall, bald chap on the Charge Plug with a Carradice SQR bag and torch/camera on my stem. You always look dapper and your bike/accessories are eye-catching...

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 22 March, 2011, 02:04:21 pm
Quote from: clarion on 22 March, 2011, 01:59:26 pm
...
And a guy on a Charge Plug who says hi as he zooms past... ;)

Guy with the shaved head and Carradice saddlebag?  You and he share the recognising-bikes-but-not-people syndrome.  He ignores me when I'm on my Brompton, but is very civil when I'm riding my regular commuter.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 22 March, 2011, 02:05:59 pm
Well there it is: a right old CS7 virtual ASL.  I'll tilt my chapeau with greater emphasis in future.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 March, 2011, 02:07:19 pm
Quote from: Chris L on 22 March, 2011, 02:04:21 pm
... the recognising-bikes-but-not-people syndrome.  ..

:-[

I am completely rubbish at recognising people.  Sorry :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: origamist on 22 March, 2011, 02:12:06 pm
Quote from: Chris L on 22 March, 2011, 02:04:21 pm
Quote from: clarion on 22 March, 2011, 01:59:26 pm
...
And a guy on a Charge Plug who says hi as he zooms past... ;)

Guy with the shaved head and Carradice saddlebag?  You and he share the recognising-bikes-but-not-people syndrome.  He ignores me when I'm on my Brompton, but is very civil when I'm riding my regular commuter.

It's a CS7 love-in.

I studiously ignore anyone who uses ETRTO 349 wheels or smaller. My username is merely a fora conceit.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Zipperhead on 22 March, 2011, 02:20:29 pm
Parliament Square was really snarled up when I came round there this morning.

The exit to the Mall was blocked by a broken down lorry - it looked (and smelt) like his fuel line had broken, there was quite a lot of diesel around. I hope it gets cleaned up properly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 22 March, 2011, 02:43:49 pm
Quote from: Chris L on 22 March, 2011, 01:26:15 pm
More generally, has anyone else noticed sociability blossoming with the Spring.  

Yes, I found myself at the lights this morning next to someone on an identical bike (muddy-coloured Langster) who asked me if I had ridden London-Edinburgh-London on the fixed wheel. I was flattered that anyone should even think I was capable, especially as he left me in the dust when the lights changed.

I think good weather just makes everyone feel more friendly
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 March, 2011, 02:46:16 pm
If I speak to a fellow rider, I find i have to repeat myself once they've taken their earphones out :(

It's usually a passing comment which doesn't bear repeating so well.  And then there's some kind of obligation to engage in a conversation once they've gone to the trouble of taking the phones out, and they feel obliged not to put them back in for fear of being rude.  Very English for the modern age...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 22 March, 2011, 03:24:09 pm
Pardon?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 March, 2011, 03:25:35 pm
Ah, umm.... I said, er, hello.  Um.







Nice day, isn't it?




Hmm?



Er, have a nice ride.




I said 'Have a nice...'






Oh....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 22 March, 2011, 03:26:46 pm
That's what you get for talking to strangers in London...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Manotea on 22 March, 2011, 03:33:48 pm
There are no strangers in London. We are just like one big family. Most of which isn't on talking terms.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 March, 2011, 03:39:18 pm
;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 22 March, 2011, 04:01:05 pm
Quote from: Manotea on 22 March, 2011, 03:33:48 pm
There are no strangers in London. We are just like one big family. Most of which isn't on talking terms.

Oh how true!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Honest John on 22 March, 2011, 04:09:05 pm
Quote from: alexb on 22 March, 2011, 04:01:05 pm
Quote from: Manotea on 22 March, 2011, 03:33:48 pm
There are no strangers in London. We are just like one big family. Most of which isn't on talking terms.

Oh how true!

They're <Peggy Mitchell>Feaaamileee, guv'nor.</Peggy Mitchell>
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Palinurus on 22 March, 2011, 07:01:34 pm
I go past these every morning. It is by the perimeter fence at Leavesden Studios, although they've been there a while so probably left over from when it was Leavesden airfield. What we have is (a) some sort of armoured vehicle (b) a strange-looking unidentified thing. Can't get closer due to the fence and camera limitations.

(http://i.imgur.com/9zRsAgc.jpg)

Anyway, I don't expect anyone to know what the thing is- but hopefully there will be some good suggestions. As I was looking at it this morning another cyclist stopped, they didn't know what it was- but I promised to let them know if I found out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Palinurus on 22 March, 2011, 07:03:28 pm
Incidentally... the other cyclist stopped and I could see their mouth moving but I had my headphones on...

I guessed though. I said "I don't know what it is either". She didn't seem confused.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 March, 2011, 07:21:34 pm
Immeasurably superior? (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lqvwxvCOSH4)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 22 March, 2011, 07:40:12 pm
Cabbies sometimes get their comeuppance (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=26458.msg672223#msg672223) too. In a slight karmic rebalancing, two taxi drivers were nice to me today and let me out of awkward junctions.

As it was nice, and Peckham seems to be dug up (either due to water/gas works, or an invasion of mole people), I took the long route into town to say hello to the Catford Cat and ambled up through Lewisham and Greenwich and along Jamaica Road. Sadly, must have come through just after an collision at the Tower Bridge end - grim sight of a bike in the middle of the road, and a skip truck parked. Lots of police and ambulances.

Indeed, Google confirms it is grim (http://www.london-se1.co.uk/news/view/5169).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adam on 22 March, 2011, 07:45:51 pm
I had a muppet try and overtake me going downhill on a little country lane this morning.  He suddenly realised there was a car coming up so had to jam his brakes on very hard.  I looked back and saw he had his eyes averted sideways avoiding looking at me.  Funny how they do that when they're in the wrong.

Then this afternoon in almost the same spot coming back uphill, a WVM tried the same manoeuvre and realised he didn't have the room to overtake me.  No squeal of brakes but massive graunching of gears.  It was even more amusing to read what was written on the side of the van -  "I H Williams - looking after buildings" - shame he can't look after his vehicles!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 22 March, 2011, 07:56:47 pm
Quote from: ian on 22 March, 2011, 07:40:12 pm

Indeed, Google confirms it is grim (http://www.london-se1.co.uk/news/view/5169).

That's bloody terrible  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 March, 2011, 07:59:00 pm
That is sad to hear.  Nasty junction.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 22 March, 2011, 08:52:42 pm
I am finding my commute easy in the mornings then almost impossible in the evenings.  Last week I rode in and took the train in.  This week I have resumed both way commuting.  Today was the first day I managed to get up the last but one hill without stopping.  Single speed is fine when I was fit but now I am carrying extra fat and smaller leg muscles after the enforced break (series of mechanical problems) it is a bit of a trial. I would love to be able to slam it into the granny ring and large sprocket and slowly roll up the hill. I have made my bed and must lie in to.  At least my bottom has stopped hurting.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 22 March, 2011, 09:29:01 pm
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 22 March, 2011, 07:56:47 pm
Quote from: ian on 22 March, 2011, 07:40:12 pm

Indeed, Google confirms it is grim (http://www.london-se1.co.uk/news/view/5169).

That's bloody terrible  :(

That's very sad to read.  I go through that junction every day and it is one that you have to know how to handle. From a driver's perspective, the sudden merging of the bus lane and the other lane is not well flagged so you have to be (a) politely assertive and (b) conscious that any approaching vehicles may not realise you are about to join the lane.  Technically, cyclists in the bus lane should give way to other traffic but I rarely find that I need to, as most drivers allow you space when they realise what you're doing. 

I also noticed tonight that the lights were out of action on the other side. I hope that wasn't the root cause of this.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 22 March, 2011, 09:53:18 pm
Quote from: Alouicious on 22 March, 2011, 10:27:17 am

As a matter of fact, the taxi was approaching you from the right, so you should have given way to him.


I'll try to remember not to get annoyed next time someone left hooks me then.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tewdric on 22 March, 2011, 09:57:01 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 22 March, 2011, 10:10:46 am
I'm so cross with myself, I only got a partial registration 'V528'. The thing is even if I did, there is this sense of futility that nothing would be done about it, and the driver would not even get a bollocking.

If you can get somone interested there will be a good chace of identifying the taxi from that partial index.  If you have an independent witness there's a chance of action - maybe get Sgt Titus's details from Charlotte? 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 22 March, 2011, 10:03:30 pm
Spring is coming and so that means the start of the season where female cyclists don't realize there 'leggings' are see through when on a bike, as noted a couple of times on the way home tonight   :o in the words of that famous Essex chef 'Happy Days'  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Honest John on 22 March, 2011, 11:18:58 pm
Quote from: Andyf on 22 March, 2011, 10:03:30 pm
Spring is coming and so that means the start of the season where female cyclists don't realize there 'leggings' are see through when on a bike, as noted a couple of times on the way home tonight   :o in the words of that famous Essex chef 'Happy Days'  ;D

I once cycled halfway across the Auvergne behind a lady cyclist ( because she's a better climber than me) whose shorts had degraded such as to provide a vue panoramique.

I told her about it somewhere past Gerbier de Jonc and she went all unnecessary about it.

We're still friends.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 March, 2011, 08:47:52 am
Spring (http://www.yehudamoon.com/index.php?date=2011-03-23)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 23 March, 2011, 09:16:16 am
Another beautiful Spring morning.  I am riding along without a care in the world when a baby looks up from its pram happily opens it arms and proclaims "Da da!"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 23 March, 2011, 09:24:58 am
The good:

The bad:

The ugly:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 23 March, 2011, 10:07:44 am
Good commute in today. People were being lovely and agreeable. Not even the woman who shouted out to me 'Get yourself a car' narked me. Ironic really as she was sat in 3 miles of traffic  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 March, 2011, 10:10:35 am
:)  Good news.

Last night, as I was riding home with Butterfly, we pulled over to the middle of the road ready to turn right.

A beetroot-faced chap leaned out of the window of his car in the queue going the other way, and yelled, 'SINGLE FILE!!!!!!'

'Er, yes.' was all I could manage before laughing.  Because we were.  He wasn't, of course... ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Alouicious on 23 March, 2011, 10:29:19 am
I realised this morning.. since changing my route, I don't pass the abattoir.

The smell is more pleasant now because when the wind is in the east ( like this morning ) an aroma wafts across the fields from the motorway service area breakfast bar.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tewdric on 23 March, 2011, 10:34:38 am
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 23 March, 2011, 09:16:16 am
Another beautiful Spring morning.  I am riding along without a care in the world when a baby looks up from its pram happily opens it arms and proclaims "Da da!"

Don't panic, it was probably just bilingual and happy.    :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 23 March, 2011, 11:50:43 am
Quote from: clarion on 23 March, 2011, 08:47:52 am
Spring (http://www.yehudamoon.com/index.php?date=2011-03-23)

At the risk of ticking off the urban types...

This morning was fresh (OK cold), with the sun (doing its world famous blood orange impersonation) on one horizon and the moon on the other, streamers of mist at head / hedge height. Lots of birdsong; Blackbirds, Yellowhammers, assorted tits and Skylarks. I only encountered a dozen or so cars, most of those on the last 4 or so miles of main road and none of the drivers did anything stupid.  Added to all this bucolic idyll was a flat calm and hawthorn blossom.

Then I got to work. *sigh*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Alouicious on 23 March, 2011, 12:01:57 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 23 March, 2011, 11:50:43 am
Quote from: clarion on 23 March, 2011, 08:47:52 am
Spring (http://www.yehudamoon.com/index.php?date=2011-03-23)

At the risk of ticking off the urban types...

This morning was fresh (OK cold), with the sun (doing its world famous blood orange impersonation) on one horizon and the moon on the other, streamers of mist at head / hedge height. Lots of birdsong; Blackbirds, Yellowhammers, assorted tits and Skylarks. I only encountered a dozen or so cars, most of those on the last 4 or so miles of main road and none of the drivers did anything stupid.  Added to all this bucolic idyll was a flat calm and hawthorn blossom.

Then I got to work. *sigh*

Don't worry about upsetting the urban types....

There are plenty of 'Assorted tits' in the city.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: токамак on 23 March, 2011, 12:04:22 pm
This:
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/_W3XR9pTyyzo/TYne6WYJx9I/AAAAAAAAAOE/QcsNTfVqiEU/IMAG0274.jpg)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/_W3XR9pTyyzo/TYne6JJfKXI/AAAAAAAAAOA/o0FF_jMxhF0/IMAG0277.jpg)

Picked up about half way. Thought it was just some gravel sticking to the tyre at first, making a noise. When I turned and with the sun at a different angle I could see it was something metallic. Kept going until I got to the office, so rode some 4 or 5 miles with it. Pulled it out, "hissssssssssss".

I think I should add a review of those Marathon Supreme's - they have been bloody brilliant, in thousands of miles this is the first incident.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 23 March, 2011, 03:15:01 pm
Had a response from the Public Carriage Office just now:

Quote
Dear her_welshness,

Thank you for your email dated 22 March 2011.

I must explain that the Taxi & Private Hire (TPH) can only deal with offences that are contrary to the Hackney Carriage Acts and Orders.  Under the circumstances you describe, we are unable to take any action against the taxi driver involved.

The TPH has no legislative power to investigate road traffic offences committed by cab drivers.  I can only advise you that if you have a complaint about the driving behaviour of a cab driver you should report the matter in person to the nearest police station.

Whilst I recognise that the police have many responsibilities placed upon them, the fact remains that they are the only authority that can investigate the road traffic offences that you describe.  In any event that action is taken, for example by way of a conviction this will result in the taxi drivers fitness to remain licensed being reviewed by the Licensing Authority.

I am sorry that you had reason to complain in respect of a licensed cab driver and wish to thank you for bringing this matter to our attention. The incident has been noted on our records.

Kind regards

I think the next port of call is getting the CCTV footage.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 March, 2011, 03:32:30 pm
Fireguard of chocolate as usual.

Use Roadsafe London at least.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 23 March, 2011, 04:31:45 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 23 March, 2011, 11:50:43 am
Quote from: clarion on 23 March, 2011, 08:47:52 am
Spring (http://www.yehudamoon.com/index.php?date=2011-03-23)

At the risk of ticking off the urban types...

This morning was fresh (OK cold), with the sun (doing its world famous blood orange impersonation) on one horizon and the moon on the other, streamers of mist at head / hedge height. Lots of birdsong; Blackbirds, Yellowhammers, assorted tits and Skylarks. I only encountered a dozen or so cars, most of those on the last 4 or so miles of main road and none of the drivers did anything stupid.  Added to all this bucolic idyll was a flat calm and hawthorn blossom.

Then I got to work. *sigh*

Joyous riding across Blackheath (wot is in London) at about 6. Mist hovering at waist height across the grass made it feel as though I was at sea.  A bit nippy, but not for long.

Shame I have to go home by train tonight :-(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 23 March, 2011, 05:50:31 pm
From the Department Of Things You Don't See Every Day:

On my way home, just turning onto the Selby cycle track next to the Sun, and I'm confronted by a grown woman squatting by the side of the cycle track and availing herself of a nice, leisurely dump ...  :sick:

I really wish I was kidding.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 23 March, 2011, 05:51:37 pm
I always knew the Sun was full of crap.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 March, 2011, 05:54:21 pm
That's a load of shit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 23 March, 2011, 05:54:33 pm
Quote from: Deano on 23 March, 2011, 05:51:37 pm
I always knew the Sun was full of crap.
Given that there were a couple of kids on BMXs on the stunt ramps under the A64 bridge maybe I should play the Daily Fail angle of "won't someone think of the children?!". Or maybe I should have gone back and told 'em  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 March, 2011, 05:56:00 pm
Or just said to them, 'Your mum'. :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 23 March, 2011, 05:56:59 pm
I had to be in before 9 today, so commuted in 7-45 to 8-45 ish, and remembered why I commute later usually.  The first 8 or so miles was OK, slightly busier traffic than usual, but nothing too much, but the final 3 miles or so, a lot of it along Queenstown Road, was less salubrious.

There was a fair amount of stationary traffic, but also the crowds of BSO and fakengers you get, none of which understand what a red light means.  Of the nine or so cyclists who stopped at the junction where Narbonne Avenue goes over the A24 onto the cycle path across Clapham Common, I was the only one who actually waited for the lights to go green.  I passed all of them with no real effort before getting to the lights on the north side of the common.  As for the weaving in and out of traffic along Queenstown Road. (http://jakal.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/smilies/shakehead.gif)

Ah well, back to a more normal commuting time tomorrow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 23 March, 2011, 06:01:30 pm
Quote from: clarion on 23 March, 2011, 05:54:21 pm
That's a load of shit.
I could sorta kinda understand it if it was a race day, after all I've seen far worse than someone having an al fresco shit when riding back along Tadcaster Road after the races, but she was approximately 100yds from a petrol station and about 10ft from some more than adequate undergrowth.

Wonder if she remembered her pooper-scooper  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 March, 2011, 06:03:50 pm
The sights to be seen on race days are appalling.  I used to work on Micklegate.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Karla on 23 March, 2011, 06:04:08 pm
I got chased across the Stray by a dog.  It was a little gold-coloured terrier, quite cute really.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 23 March, 2011, 06:58:09 pm
Quote from: Mr Bunbury on 23 March, 2011, 06:04:08 pm
I got chased across the Stray by a dog.  It was a little gold-coloured terrier, quite cute really.

A stray dog?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 23 March, 2011, 10:30:45 pm
In work from 7am till 8pm, in the gym till 9:40, home at 10:30.  Long day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 23 March, 2011, 11:01:41 pm
Ah! Spring is sprung, the grass is rizz....  :)
Sunny and warm today and very little wind.
Passed 3 other cyclists and saw at least 10 coming the other way.
Superb views lit by the red setting sun on the way home.
Averaged 25kph for the 58km round trip including 900m climbing - fastest of the year so far.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Alouicious on 24 March, 2011, 07:14:00 am
I bet it stopped looking cute with your cycle shoe in the side of its head.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: steveindenmark on 24 March, 2011, 09:54:06 am
On my commute home from work in the wee hours of this morning I was almost run over by four deer. I swerved to miss a badger out on his nightly forage. 2 foxes thought twice about crossing the road in front of me and slunk back into the  undergrowth and the rabbits played their nightly game of chicken with my front wheel.

This Hope Vision 1 light is great, I can see everything.

Steve
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 24 March, 2011, 10:24:19 am
Last night was the first evening wearing shorts on the ride home
And the clocks haven't even gone forward yet!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sigod on 24 March, 2011, 10:31:50 am
A wonderful ride in this morning, racing (and failing) to pass a youngster on his Bianchi. The wind in my hairs (both of them) as I whisked along on my British Eagle at a leathally fast 11 mph. They said no-one could possibly survive such velocities but I proved them wrong.

I am also a hard loving man who takes no prisoners. With my steely expression, dark glasses and Carpenters Greatest Hits on my iPod, I WILL dare to look into the abyss.  
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 24 March, 2011, 10:36:17 am
Had a ped run right into the front of my bike, today.  She darted across the road and through the traffic without looking and I thought, as she passed just ahead, that it could have been nasty if the timing had been slightly different.  Then, halfway across the second lane, she turned back and ran back in the other direction, right onto my front wheel.  Nothing I could do but squeeze the brake and yell.  Luckily for her, I had slowed in preparation for a right turn, so there was no damage on either side.  Suicidal behaviour, though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 24 March, 2011, 10:54:57 am
No strange women crapping in hedgerows.
Not even any monstrous queues of traffic requiring me to walk in order to get somewhere.
Pretty dull, really.

It was still bloody nithering at 8.30 though (leg warmers were required)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Karla on 24 March, 2011, 10:56:51 am
Quote from: Peter on 23 March, 2011, 06:58:09 pm
Quote from: Mr Bunbury on 23 March, 2011, 06:04:08 pm
I got chased across the Stray by a dog.  It was a little gold-coloured terrier, quite cute really.

A stray dog?

No, it had an owner.  Good pun though.
Strays of York (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Strays_of_York)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Alouicious on 24 March, 2011, 10:59:00 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 24 March, 2011, 10:24:19 am
Last night was the first evening wearing shorts on the ride home
And the clocks haven't even gone forward yet!

Its at this time of year I'm glad I have four pairs of leggings, four undershirts and four pairs of wooly gloves. Eight Celcius is the threshold for me to drop the trousers... ;D

Friday is half work day by car and laundry day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 24 March, 2011, 11:06:08 am
1st day of short sleeve jersey and shorts.

No base layer, no arm warmers, no knee warmers.

Bit chilly setting off (my commute in starts with a 200 yard drop down a gentle hill) but I soon warmed up as the HR went over 150bpm.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Alouicious on 24 March, 2011, 11:23:56 am
2 Deg C at 05:00.

Wind was 2mph against a riding speed of 16 mph = -5.5 Deg C Equivalent Exposed Skin Temperature.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 24 March, 2011, 11:32:59 am
I encountered a cyclist, on a singlespeed, who was weaving about a little.  Then I noticed he was swigging from a can of Special Brew..... at 6.45 am.

I assume he was on his way home from the night shift
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sigod on 24 March, 2011, 02:18:59 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 24 March, 2011, 10:36:17 am
Had a ped run right into the front of my bike, today.  She darted across the road and through the traffic without looking and I thought, as she passed just ahead, that it could have been nasty if the timing had been slightly different.  Then, halfway across the second lane, she turned back and ran back in the other direction, right onto my front wheel.  Nothing I could do but squeeze the brake and yell.  Luckily for her, I had slowed in preparation for a right turn, so there was no damage on either side.  Suicidal behaviour, though.
Yeeesh. It's those moments when time slows to a crawl and a cold and sour feeling washes over you. Happy to hear that nobody got hurt however.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Honest John on 24 March, 2011, 02:25:38 pm
Quote from: sigod on 24 March, 2011, 02:18:59 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 24 March, 2011, 10:36:17 am
Had a ped run right into the front of my bike, today.  She darted across the road and through the traffic without looking and I thought, as she passed just ahead, that it could have been nasty if the timing had been slightly different.  Then, halfway across the second lane, she turned back and ran back in the other direction, right onto my front wheel.  Nothing I could do but squeeze the brake and yell.  Luckily for her, I had slowed in preparation for a right turn, so there was no damage on either side.  Suicidal behaviour, though.
Yeeesh. It's those moments when time slows to a crawl and a cold and sour feeling washes over you. Happy to hear that nobody got hurt however.

Of course, we have to remember that the pedestrian has a right to wander all over the road like a headless chicken or a zombie.

Bloody jaywalkers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 24 March, 2011, 03:02:35 pm
She might have been pretty stupid, but she wasn't jaywalking.  This is not Leftpondia, thank goodness.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Honest John on 24 March, 2011, 03:26:16 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 24 March, 2011, 03:02:35 pm
She might have been pretty stupid, but she wasn't jaywalking.  This is not Leftpondia, thank goodness.

Correct, she was not disobeying the law, since that US law does not apply here.

But "jaywalker" is a very good description of irresponsible people who walk or run into the road without looking.

And more polite than "dozy idiot".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 24 March, 2011, 03:32:47 pm
Quote from: Honest John on 24 March, 2011, 03:26:16 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 24 March, 2011, 03:02:35 pm
She might have been pretty stupid, but she wasn't jaywalking.  This is not Leftpondia, thank goodness.

Correct, she was not disobeying the law, since that US law does not apply here.

But "jaywalker" is a very good description of irresponsible people who walk or run into the road without looking.

Not to me. Jaywalking is about where you cross, not whether someone bothers to look before they leap into the road.

I do believe "Lemming" is the usual term for those that launch themselves into the road without (or before) looking.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 24 March, 2011, 03:38:19 pm
If you had a bike like mine, you'd not get very worked up over pedestrians at all.   ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 24 March, 2011, 04:50:52 pm
Pavement lemmings are a fact of life. I expect to encounter at least one or two on every journey in central London.

It's annoying and inconsiderate - and potentially dangerous - but what can you do? Best to ride defensively and enjoy the smug satisfaction of being in the right.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 24 March, 2011, 05:03:47 pm
I'm possibly not the most careful rider around pedestrians, but I try hard to correct for my failings on this.  I very rarely have any close calls with them, perhaps once a year or so, so I hope I'm not doing too much wrong.

Staying well out in the lane away from the pavement is my best defence, as is going extra wide through high streets and past bus stops, and of course just going slow and chilling out in the parks, for example.  Slowing down a little and going wide for those "jumping" pedestrian lights, too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 24 March, 2011, 05:12:33 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 24 March, 2011, 05:03:47 pm

Staying well out in the lane away from the pavement is my best defence, as is going extra wide through high streets and past bus stops, and of course just going slow and chilling out in the parks, for example.  Slowing down a little and going wide for those "jumping" pedestrian lights, too.

Wouldn't have helped me this morning; I was in primary position, closer to the central line than the pavement.  I spotted her just before she leapt out from between cars in the opposite lane of traffice, but nothing could have prepared me for the almost instant 180 degree turn.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 24 March, 2011, 05:14:58 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 24 March, 2011, 05:03:47 pm

Staying well out in the lane away from the pavement is my best defence, as is going extra wide through high streets and past bus stops, and of course just going slow and chilling out in the parks, for example.  Slowing down a little and going wide for those "jumping" pedestrian lights, too.

I do this especially along Tooley Street. I do not go fast along here but there is normally someone who wants 'to make a run for it' so to speak. Because Lower Road is so clogged up in traffic due to Thames Water works I went through Southwark Park, it was full of spring goodness  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 24 March, 2011, 05:17:35 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 24 March, 2011, 05:12:33 pm
Wouldn't have helped me this morning; I was in primary position, closer to the central line than the pavement.  I spotted her just before she leapt out from between cars in the opposite lane of traffice, but nothing could have prepared me for the almost instant 180 degree turn.

Yes, totally.  Sorry, I didn't mean to imply any fault in your case.  When you get a pedestrian with that much lack of care, there's very little even the most cautious of rider can do.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 24 March, 2011, 05:21:07 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 24 March, 2011, 05:14:58 pm
I do this especially along Tooley Street. I do not go fast along here but there is normally someone who wants 'to make a run for it' so to speak. Because Lower Road is so clogged up in traffic due to Thames Water works I went through Southwark Park, it was full of spring goodness  :thumbsup:

hey, that's part of my commute - lower road -> jamaica street -> tooley street -> london bridge -> bank -> moorgate -> old street. tooley street near london bridge and around the bank area are the worst for erratic pedestrians.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Honest John on 24 March, 2011, 05:39:13 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 24 March, 2011, 05:03:47 pm
Slowing down a little and going wide for those "jumping" pedestrian lights, too.

Ah, yes. Clapham South station. They cower on the pavement as cars pass then, as soon as they see a bike coming, they launch into suicide mode. And it's quite difficult to slow down when there are motors around you travelling at 20-35mph.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 25 March, 2011, 08:23:53 am
Lovely half-mile commute this morning.

First time this year cycling in just a T-Shirt.

<sigh> I'll let someone else to fill in the necessary.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 25 March, 2011, 08:54:22 am
Quote from: zigzag on 24 March, 2011, 05:21:07 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 24 March, 2011, 05:14:58 pm
I do this especially along Tooley Street. I do not go fast along here but there is normally someone who wants 'to make a run for it' so to speak. Because Lower Road is so clogged up in traffic due to Thames Water works I went through Southwark Park, it was full of spring goodness  :thumbsup:

hey, that's part of my commute - lower road -> jamaica street -> tooley street -> london bridge -> bank -> moorgate -> old street. tooley street near london bridge and around the bank area are the worst for erratic pedestrians.

Mine too - and the stretch along lower road to london bridge was awash with numpties on BSOs today  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 March, 2011, 09:23:31 am
Quote from: Riggers on 25 March, 2011, 08:23:53 am
First time this year cycling in just a T-Shirt.

It's that kind of town, isn't it? ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 March, 2011, 09:36:18 am
I rode in today for the only time this week. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 25 March, 2011, 09:40:59 am
Lovely ride in this morning. Hazy, but very bright with the added bonus of a hot air balloon filling the sky.

And a postscript from Tuesday -- at one point on my ride home I could see five other bikes which is a record ib eight years of commuting!

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 25 March, 2011, 09:54:41 am
A thick blanket of fog was enveloping everything when I left the house this morning, and there was a bit of a chill in the air, so I put on an extra layer. After my three mile ride to the station, the hairs on the back of my hands were coated in rime. It was so foggy, I couldn't even see the sea (the railway line passes just a few metres from the beach).

By the time the train reached London, the sun was out and I felt rather overdressed.

I do like this time of year, but it's impossible to know what to wear.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 25 March, 2011, 09:56:31 am
Quote from: clarion on 25 March, 2011, 09:23:31 am
Quote from: Riggers on 25 March, 2011, 08:23:53 am
First time this year cycling in just a T-Shirt.

It's that kind of town, isn't it? ;D


<High-Five!>
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: urban_biker on 25 March, 2011, 10:08:23 am
A commute of contrasts on the way home last night. I started out wearing shorts and T-shirt with a windproof on top, but soon removed  the windproof as it was just too warm. I can't remember the last time I cycled in shorts and short-top in March.

At one point I spotted two deer ahead of me and it was only the creaking of my Brooks saddle that let them know I was there as I cruised silently down the road.

Even more strangely - on the last stage of my ride as I approached Denmead an open top car full of 20 something girlies went past and one shouted "show us your willy" Needless to say I didn't oblige.

I guess it was lucky for them that Hummers wasn't around. Little Hummers always enjoys a bit of sun I understand.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 25 March, 2011, 10:16:14 am
I got to site and the entire playground was full of bikes - many of them decorated.  The last day of 'The Big Pedal' so they decided to have a bike parade on the yard too.  My ride to school counts too and they get a point or whatever for me apparently, and they'll forgive me for not decorating my bike since I rode 12 km to get here :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Alouicious on 25 March, 2011, 10:32:20 am
Quote from: Redlight on 25 March, 2011, 08:54:22 am
Quote from: zigzag on 24 March, 2011, 05:21:07 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 24 March, 2011, 05:14:58 pm
I do this especially along Tooley Street. I do not go fast along here but there is normally someone who wants 'to make a run for it' so to speak. Because Lower Road is so clogged up in traffic due to Thames Water works I went through Southwark Park, it was full of spring goodness  :thumbsup:

hey, that's part of my commute - lower road -> jamaica street -> tooley street -> london bridge -> bank -> moorgate -> old street. tooley street near london bridge and around the bank area are the worst for erratic pedestrians.

Mine too - and the stretch along lower road to london bridge was awash with numpties on BSOs today  >:(

A numptie on a BSO is a damned sight better than a numptie in a car.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 March, 2011, 10:43:36 am
Every time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 25 March, 2011, 10:57:13 am
Not when they make it more dangerous for other cyclists by (to give an example from this morning) attempting to undertake in a cycle lane when the cyclists in front are slowing down because the lights have just changed.

If you can hold your line between the kerb and another cyclist it might be acceptable. If you're wobbling all over the place you're likely to push the cyclists you are undertaking into the adjacent line of motor traffic.

Ditto the dimwit on London Bridge last night who pulled alongside me on my right and then proceeded to turn left across my path when the lights changed. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 25 March, 2011, 11:01:29 am
Quote from: Redlight on 25 March, 2011, 10:57:13 am

Ditto the dimwit on London Bridge last night who pulled alongside me on my right and then proceeded to turn left across my path when the lights changed. 

Ahh that happens a lot  >:( I had one the other day on High Holborn who wanted to turn left across me to get onto Grays Inn Road. I gave her the Paddington Bear Stare of Doom and she desisted. They must be copying cab drivers  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Alouicious on 25 March, 2011, 11:05:02 am
Quote from: Redlight on 25 March, 2011, 10:57:13 am
Not when they make it more dangerous for other cyclists by (to give an example from this morning) attempting to undertake in a cycle lane when the cyclists in front are slowing down because the lights have just changed.

If you can hold your line between the kerb and another cyclist it might be acceptable. If you're wobbling all over the place you're likely to push the cyclists you are undertaking into the adjacent line of motor traffic.

Ditto the dimwit on London Bridge last night who pulled alongside me on my right and then proceeded to turn left across my path when the lights changed.  

Tricky one. I'd be inclined to shoulder the numpty into the curb to teach him road manners.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Alouicious on 25 March, 2011, 11:08:14 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 25 March, 2011, 11:01:29 am
Quote from: Redlight on 25 March, 2011, 10:57:13 am

Ditto the dimwit on London Bridge last night who pulled alongside me on my right and then proceeded to turn left across my path when the lights changed. 

Ahh that happens a lot  >:( I had one the other day on High Holborn who wanted to turn left across me to get onto Grays Inn Road. I gave her the Paddington Bear Stare of Doom and she desisted. They must be copying cab drivers  :demon:

You'll have to practice your 'wheel touching'.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 25 March, 2011, 11:08:48 am
But how much more dangerous would said idiot be if in a large metal box?  Inconsiderate cyclists do annoy me, not least because they make the rest of us look bad, but the problem is dimwits on the road regardless of what method of transport they choose.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Honest John on 25 March, 2011, 11:43:23 am
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 25 March, 2011, 11:08:48 am
But how much more dangerous would said idiot be if in a large metal box?  Inconsiderate cyclists do annoy me, not least because they make the rest of us look bad, but the problem is dimwits on the road regardless of what method of transport they choose.

Hmmm... Assuming rush hour, low speeds, lots of traffic of all kinds:

Knocked into the road by a cyclist v knocked into the road by a car v knocked into the road by a pedestrian.

Not much to choose between them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: origamist on 25 March, 2011, 12:05:22 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 25 March, 2011, 10:57:13 am
Not when they make it more dangerous for other cyclists by (to give an example from this morning) attempting to undertake in a cycle lane when the cyclists in front are slowing down because the lights have just changed.


I was pulling away from traffic lights this morning in Kennington and a chap wearing an AUK jersey riding a lovely Roberts undertook me! As I type such portentous commuting guff, eschatologists will undoubtedly be looking skywards.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 25 March, 2011, 12:27:46 pm
Quote from: origamist on 25 March, 2011, 12:05:22 pm
a chap wearing an AUK jersey riding a lovely Roberts undertook me!

Can I declare here and now that IT WASN'T ME  O:-) O:-) O:-)

But I am on my lovely Roberts today  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 25 March, 2011, 01:06:52 pm
Quote from: Alouicious on 25 March, 2011, 11:05:02 am
Quote from: Redlight on 25 March, 2011, 10:57:13 am
Not when they make it more dangerous for other cyclists by (to give an example from this morning) attempting to undertake in a cycle lane when the cyclists in front are slowing down because the lights have just changed.

If you can hold your line between the kerb and another cyclist it might be acceptable. If you're wobbling all over the place you're likely to push the cyclists you are undertaking into the adjacent line of motor traffic.

Ditto the dimwit on London Bridge last night who pulled alongside me on my right and then proceeded to turn left across my path when the lights changed.  

Tricky one. I'd be inclined to shoulder the numpty into the curb to teach him road manners.



Only sensible if you want them to:
a) go straight to casualty
b) give up cycling and get back in their car/on the Tube
c) start a fight

Surely a polite word would be better?

I was about to offer a polite word to a guy on Wednesday after he'd hopped up on the pavement weaving through peds, jumped back onto the road to slap a car's window for encroaching on the cycle lane, and then sped straight through a red light.  Suffice to say I overtook a km or so down the road, but as I slowed to allow a car to turn left (indicating what I was doing with my left arm), he shot past me on the inside and dodged the (now turning) car.  I saved my polite word for the latter indiscretion, which evoked a bit of yeah-well type response, but hopefully planted a few seeds for later consideration.  Sounds a bit limp, I know, but I really don't think trying to push him off his bike would have helped.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 25 March, 2011, 01:20:34 pm
I'd put the elbow into a prat like that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 25 March, 2011, 01:27:16 pm
I don't think it'd ever be right to offer another road user physical violence for real, no matter how bad their riding/driving.  That'd only make us just as bad as some of the car drivers we see out there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 25 March, 2011, 01:48:05 pm
Have you ever raced with a bit of elbow? Not violence, an education.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 25 March, 2011, 02:05:34 pm
Quote from: LittleWheelsandBig on 25 March, 2011, 01:48:05 pm
Have you ever raced with a bit of elbow? Not violence, an education.

I've been told off a couple of times for getting a little physical when racing, although not on bikes.  I'm not convinced that has any place outside of sports though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 March, 2011, 02:32:36 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 25 March, 2011, 01:27:16 pm
I don't think it'd ever be right to offer another road user physical violence for real, no matter how bad their riding/driving.  That'd only make us just as bad as some of the car drivers we see out there.

Precisely.  If I'd hit that Jeep driver back the other day, what would it have helped?

Quote from: LittleWheelsandBig on 25 March, 2011, 01:48:05 pm
Have you ever raced with a bit of elbow? Not violence, an education.

We're not talking about racing.  There are arseholes on the commute who can't tell the difference, and maybe they don't care what anyone else thinks of them, just so long as they get the podium place when they arrive for their office drudgery, but they are not popular with people who can ride their bikes and have some consideration for others.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 25 March, 2011, 02:44:49 pm
An elbow to somebody undertaking educates them that undertaking sometimes has adverse consequences. You do whatever you wish, I'll stick with what works.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 March, 2011, 02:47:25 pm
I'll not put other road users in any additional danger.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 25 March, 2011, 02:49:05 pm
I'll choose putting prats in danger in preference to them putting me in danger by close undertaking. YMMV
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 25 March, 2011, 02:49:16 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 25 March, 2011, 09:54:41 am
... By the time the train reached London, the sun was out and I felt rather overdressed.

I do like this time of year, but it's impossible to know what to wear.

Yes, I've been in shorts and long sleeved jersey for the last couple of days.  I've got a fleece and long tights in my pannier, because I know by the time I go home I'll likely need them.  If it's anything like last Friday I'll definitely need them, although I'm not intending to extend my commute into a ride to the beech today!

Of course, the clocks change this weekend, so it'll be darker and colder earlier for a while, before the sunrise catches up again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 25 March, 2011, 04:25:02 pm
Quote from: LittleWheelsandBig on 25 March, 2011, 02:49:05 pm
I'll choose putting prats in danger in preference to them putting me in danger by close undertaking. YMMV

I'm sympatheitc and share your outrage, but I don't think that's actually the choice.  Being aware that undertaking might happen means I check my left shoulder before moving to the left, especially if I'm not going that fast, so I hope my observation means they're not putting **me** in danger.  Not being smug or pious.  Jus' sayin'.

As I say, I think the downsides of violent retribution for the miscreant cyclist (and for cycling in general) far outweigh those of an experienced cyclist having to extend a bit of patience.  As you rightly say, YMMV.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 25 March, 2011, 04:55:06 pm
Quote from: LittleWheelsandBig on 25 March, 2011, 02:49:05 pm
I'll choose putting prats in danger in preference to them putting me in danger by close undertaking. YMMV

I'm not that far from this in a slightly different situation.  When riding Darwin's Corners and other narrow lanes, for example, I'll take the lane even though that means a few crazy car drivers will overtake into the blind corner or into oncoming traffic, and risk a head-on collision:


    YouTube
        - WM10SRY Suicide by overtake?
   (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lLbrU-CVRNk)

Am I bad for being selfish enough to want to keep myself safe, despite what they might do to themselves or other drivers?

OTOH it's not too hard to brake or slow down rather than lean on a crazy cyclist surely?  Like you, I'll still try to bring consequences, but I'll do it by telling them why their riding was crap and putting it on youtube.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 25 March, 2011, 05:09:06 pm
No outrage on my part and no violence. Actions have consequences, including my left elbow possibly getting in the way of undertaking cyclists. Whether they fall off afterwards is up to them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Zipperhead on 25 March, 2011, 07:40:08 pm
Is it the weather? The stupidity level seems to have gone sky high. So much stupidity about that I don't even remember the ride to work.

Wating at some lights near the office, where cyclists can go straight on, on the pavement (but need to be careful of pedestrians, especially tonight with lots of them outside the pub). The lights were on a pedestrian phase and as they changed to green for me a courier jumped the lights at 90 degrees to me, at speed, and another idiot couldn't be arsed to wait and came down the wrong side , of the road and down the right hand side of the traffic island and jumped the light. Sadly they missed each other.

Two sets of lights later an idiot tried to go between me and the kerb.

Nearer home, on a dark stretch of road (Old York Road) a girl pushed her bicycle off the road and wobbled off down the wrong side of the road straight towards me. OF course she hadn't bothered to look before settings off - or look where she was going! Or bother with having any lights, why she was bothering wearing a helment I don't know.

Next set of lights as I'm going through a grey haired fool jumped the lights against me and I had to avoid him. Of course he had hi-vis and a helmet, just no fucking brain.

There were countless idiots who had helmets but no lights (and I didn't leave work until it was dark enough to need them to be seen by)

No wonder people rant about cyclists.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adam on 25 March, 2011, 08:24:57 pm
T-shirt and shorts for the commute today, for the first time since the warm spell in February.  And I stopped at all 3 sets of red lights.  And no cars got in my way or did any dodgy overtaking.

Just another normal day in the rural bits of Herts/Beds.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 25 March, 2011, 08:26:42 pm
Quote from: Adam on 25 March, 2011, 08:24:57 pm
And I stopped at all 3 sets of red lights. 


Oi you'll be getting us all a good name if your not careful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 25 March, 2011, 08:31:02 pm
Quote from: Adam on 25 March, 2011, 08:24:57 pm
... all 3 sets of red lights. ...

That's not a proper commute, I'm not even half a mile from home (or work, in reverse) after the first three sets of lights. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 25 March, 2011, 08:39:19 pm
240 sets of lights on my round trip commute.   :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 25 March, 2011, 08:52:13 pm
Quote from: Zipperhead on 25 March, 2011, 07:40:08 pm
Nearer home, on a dark stretch of road (Old York Road)

This is Idiot Avenue, isn't it. Cars, pedestrians, people on bikes, and buses all behaving like they have abandoned common sense. I'm always on full alert going along there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Zipperhead on 25 March, 2011, 09:17:27 pm
It is, and with a very poor surface as well. Now that the weather is better and the clocks are going forwards I think I might start going home through Putney to avoid that danger!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 25 March, 2011, 09:36:10 pm
I have two sets of light on my commute.  Both in the last couple of miles, and it was so late when I came home that the A19 was so quiet I didn't even have to put a foot down at the junction where I turn right onto it.

In other news, I should clearly ride my bike when CROSS more often.  That was 20 minutes quicker to get home than I've ever done before!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arch on 25 March, 2011, 09:57:03 pm
A (sadly departed) friend of mine from Orkeny once commented that the first traffic lights she encountered when she drove to Edinburgh, were in Wick.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 25 March, 2011, 10:27:09 pm
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 25 March, 2011, 09:36:10 pm
I have two sets of light on my commute. 

there's a light in every room on my commute :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 25 March, 2011, 11:17:21 pm
I don't have too many lights on my commute, only about half what Wendy has, around 60 each way (so less than 0.2 miles between them on average).

I reckon that I have to stop at a set of light about 1 in 3 , which probably explains the wear to my gears, brakes, wheel rims, and SPD cleats. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 26 March, 2011, 12:03:18 am
Yikes, there are no lights on my 21 mile each way commute!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adam on 26 March, 2011, 04:14:39 am
Mine's only 6½ miles sadly.  I really ought to look at a diversion sometime.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 26 March, 2011, 12:14:28 pm
Quote from: Adam on 26 March, 2011, 04:14:39 am
Mine's only 6½ miles sadly.  I really ought to look at a diversion sometime.

That's 2 days commuting for me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 27 March, 2011, 09:19:53 pm
I thought itsbruce might enjoy this version of the Funky Chicken:


    YouTube
        - The Funky Chicken starring Pedestrian X
   (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cZJbkz9XxLY)

No harm done, and plenty of clearance to avoid each other.  Hearing doesn't work too well when you're trying to detect relatively quiet vehicles.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 28 March, 2011, 12:57:37 pm
The clock change had one of its nastier side effects today.  I noticed that there were was a significant increase of fluffy blood on the road.  The poor little things were surprised when heavy traffic started a hour earlier.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 28 March, 2011, 02:22:38 pm
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 28 March, 2011, 12:57:37 pm
The clock change had one of its nastier side effects today.  I noticed that there were was a significant increase of fluffy blood on the road.  The poor little things were surprised when heavy traffic started a hour earlier.


I have noticed over the years in my job that I deal with more feline road casualties in the days that follow a clock change than usual :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Alouicious on 28 March, 2011, 02:31:48 pm
Quote from: Feline on 28 March, 2011, 02:22:38 pm
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 28 March, 2011, 12:57:37 pm
The clock change had one of its nastier side effects today.  I noticed that there were was a significant increase of fluffy blood on the road.  The poor little things were surprised when heavy traffic started a hour earlier.


I have noticed over the years in my job that I deal with more feline road casualties in the days that follow a clock change than usual :(

Are you a Taxidermist?

Or a Fur hat maker?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: welshwheels on 28 March, 2011, 05:10:54 pm
I bloody enjoyed that commute  :thumbsup: shame about the bit between the ride in and the ride home  :facepalm: as for the riding it was nice trouble free and fast 18 mph average on a mtb   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 28 March, 2011, 07:42:28 pm
I got commuter raced tonight (and lost!)  :facepalm:

Positive point was the number of bikes on the road.  At least five apart from me and there are weeks when I don't see another cyclist!
Negative point was being overtaken by two riders on similar bikes to mine and left for dead!

My excuses are that a) I'm a lot older than them b) I'd been for a ten-miler at lunchtime and c) the gardening over the weekend seems to have done my legs in!  :smug:

Good ride though!

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smurphboy on 28 March, 2011, 08:54:18 pm
Definite new cyclist effect in Bristol today. Almost got swamped at the lights with people on shiny new bikes and in shiny new kit. Ended up with a little train in my (not inconsiderable) slipstream round the back of The Memorial Ground on the way home.

Also got scalped by a guy on a Cotic Soul with a half wheeler on the back - to be fair make excuses, I wasn't paying attention as he passed and he had the stoker shouting encouragement and ringing his bell. It did make me laugh.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 28 March, 2011, 09:05:07 pm
I think you did a Very Good Thing in 'letting them win'.  It's important for children to feel a sense of achievement  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 28 March, 2011, 09:35:37 pm
Quote from: Alouicious on 28 March, 2011, 02:31:48 pm
Quote from: Feline on 28 March, 2011, 02:22:38 pm
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 28 March, 2011, 12:57:37 pm
The clock change had one of its nastier side effects today.  I noticed that there were was a significant increase of fluffy blood on the road.  The poor little things were surprised when heavy traffic started a hour earlier.


I have noticed over the years in my job that I deal with more feline road casualties in the days that follow a clock change than usual :(

Are you a Taxidermist?

Or a Fur hat maker?

No, guess again ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: YahudaMoon on 28 March, 2011, 09:46:43 pm
Nearly got killed again.

This time it was an African male bus driver (again) Why is it the African bus drivers always want to kill me ?

Anyway I caught him up at the bus depot where he was retiring for his shift and told him I was fileing a report for his poor driving. Anyway I could'nt wait about as I had to pick my little girls up so got off.

no report filed

I hope he's learned his lesson on being a idiot bus driver
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 28 March, 2011, 09:49:34 pm
Quote from: YahudaMoon on 28 March, 2011, 09:46:43 pm
Nearly got killed again.

This time it was an African male bus driver (again) Why is it the African bus drivers always want to kill me ?

Anyway I caught him up at the bus depot where he was retiring for his shift and told him I was fileing a report for his poor driving. Anyway I could'nt wait about as I had to pick my little girls up so got off.

no report filed

I hope he's learned his lesson on being a idiot bus driver

Make sure you do report him, every little bit of pressure on these idiots helps! They are driving a potential killing machine, with this comes great responsibility. Make him defend and earn the right to drive it!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: YahudaMoon on 28 March, 2011, 09:54:38 pm
@ feline.

I would reported him though at the time my little girls were of more importance. I was so annoyed with myself having to leave the bus depot.

John
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 28 March, 2011, 09:56:45 pm
Quote from: YahudaMoon on 28 March, 2011, 09:54:38 pm
@ feline.

I would reported him though at the time my little girls were of more importance. I was so annoyed with myself having to leave the bus depot.

John

It's not too late if you know the route and time it happened on, you can still file a complaint!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 28 March, 2011, 09:57:48 pm
+1 to the "More furry squeaky splotches of red on the road" today.  Let's be careful out there.

I've counted up the traffic lights on my commute; 11 on the way in, none on the way home.  Conversely, I cross the river not at all on the way in, but 4 times on the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: YahudaMoon on 28 March, 2011, 09:58:13 pm
Forgot my pencil !
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smurphboy on 28 March, 2011, 09:59:56 pm
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 28 March, 2011, 09:05:07 pm
I think you did a Very Good Thing in 'letting them win'.  It's important for children to feel a sense of achievement  ;)

I wish it were that honourable. It was a downhill stretch and by the time I'd realised they had passed and I'd got up to speed, the kid was looking round and taunting smiling at me. I dug deep, passed them and then had to stop for the red light... I might have muttered something that you shouldn't say in front of a five year old but the parent soon eased the tension by laughing and saying that there is no motivation like an annoying five-year old with a bell to make you get them home quickly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adam on 28 March, 2011, 10:14:18 pm
Shouted at a motorist through her open window to put the phone down or she'd be nicked.  She'd didn't have to worry about putting the phone down, as in her shock, she dropped the phone.

I felt a (tiny) bit guilty.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 28 March, 2011, 10:16:17 pm
Quote from: smurphboy on 28 March, 2011, 09:59:56 pm
I wish it were that honourable.

Oh, I just thought that you might appreciate a reasonable sounding excuse someone pointing out your altruism!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smurphboy on 28 March, 2011, 10:20:47 pm
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 28 March, 2011, 10:16:17 pm
Quote from: smurphboy on 28 March, 2011, 09:59:56 pm
I wish it were that honourable.

Oh, I just thought that you might appreciate a reasonable sounding excuse someone pointing out your altruism!

Thanks - that is clearly what it was. Not a man mouthing obscenities at a child on a bike - not at all that... O:-)

Give that kid five years and he will be passing me on a clown's bike BMX.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Diver300 on 28 March, 2011, 11:58:46 pm
I got seriously delayed by the stupid traffic lights where I turn right, late at night coming home.

If they don't spot me arrive, they stay on red.

There is maybe 5 seconds of green, but only when there is an oncoming car, so when it is unsafe to go.

So should I proceed when it is

safe.......

or legal.......

given that both is not an option?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 29 March, 2011, 12:13:59 am
Quote from: Diver300 on 28 March, 2011, 11:58:46 pm
I got seriously delayed by the stupid traffic lights where I turn right, late at night coming home.

If they don't spot me arrive, they stay on red.

There is maybe 5 seconds of green, but only when there is an oncoming car, so when it is unsafe to go.

So should I proceed when it is

safe.......

or legal.......

given that both is not an option?

You stopped at a red light? WTF? ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 29 March, 2011, 09:37:33 am
Quote from: Diver300 on 28 March, 2011, 11:58:46 pm
I got seriously delayed by the stupid traffic lights where I turn right, late at night coming home.

If they don't spot me arrive, they stay on red.

There is maybe 5 seconds of green, but only when there is an oncoming car, so when it is unsafe to go.

So should I proceed when it is

safe.......

or legal.......

given that both is not an option?
If the lights don't recognise your presence they are faulty, and it's legal1 to proceed with caution.

You might be able to trigger them by waiting in a different place on the road (often you can see where they have laid the induction loop by a line of tar on the surface), or by dismounting and laying the bike down on the loop.


1 (said the consensus either here, or in the Old Place, or on uk.r.c, or on oxbridge.tat long ago and in a land far from Google)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 29 March, 2011, 09:45:59 am
Quote from: smurphboy on 28 March, 2011, 09:59:56 pm
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 28 March, 2011, 09:05:07 pm
I think you did a Very Good Thing in 'letting them win'.  It's important for children to feel a sense of achievement  ;)

I wish it were that honourable. It was a downhill stretch and by the time I'd realised they had passed and I'd got up to speed, the kid was looking round and taunting smiling at me. I dug deep, passed them and then had to stop for the red light... I might have muttered something that you shouldn't say in front of a five year old but the parent soon eased the tension by laughing and saying that there is no motivation like an annoying five-year old with a bell to make you get them home quickly.

Those rigs can pick up quite a speed downhill.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 29 March, 2011, 09:59:33 am
Quote from: hatler on 29 March, 2011, 09:45:59 am
Quote from: smurphboy on 28 March, 2011, 09:59:56 pm
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 28 March, 2011, 09:05:07 pm
I think you did a Very Good Thing in 'letting them win'.  It's important for children to feel a sense of achievement  ;)

I wish it were that honourable. It was a downhill stretch and by the time I'd realised they had passed and I'd got up to speed, the kid was looking round and taunting smiling at me. I dug deep, passed them and then had to stop for the red light... I might have muttered something that you shouldn't say in front of a five year old but the parent soon eased the tension by laughing and saying that there is no motivation like an annoying five-year old with a bell to make you get them home quickly.

Those rigs can pick up quite a speed downhill.

even with only the child pedalling  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 29 March, 2011, 10:02:46 am
Quote from: matthew on 29 March, 2011, 09:59:33 am
Quote from: hatler on 29 March, 2011, 09:45:59 am

Those rigs can pick up quite a speed downhill.

even with only the child pedalling  ;)

 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 29 March, 2011, 11:25:29 am
High drama this morning and uncomfortable that I didn’t do the right thing.  Large group setting off lights between Clapham North and Stockwell.  I build up speed slowly and start moving towards the front of the group.  Glance down, look up and the bike that was twenty yards in front of me is now five yards in front of me and stationary.  The cyclist next to me (equally surprised) and I slam on the brakes and swerve around stationary bike.  Said bike had stopped to allow car travelling in opposite direction to turn right (for CS7 veterans, this is the turning from Clapham Rd into Union Rd).  Car had spotted cyclists going too fast to stop and had (thankfully) desisted with the turn.

Clattering sound follows and stationary bike, rider and another bike and rider are tangled up on floor.  I’m well past by now, but I stop.  Riders and bikes get up (everyone walking) and move to the pavement accompanied by other cyclists who, I guess, must have seen what happened.  Car pulls across the lane and driver winds down window to hand out some safety tips.  Cyclist who’d been level with me and I continue towards Stockwell.

Not entirely comfortable with leaving without offering assistance.  In mitigation the incident seemed pretty well attended by the 5 or 6 people who’d stopped, and I didn’t see any of it (reason for first cyclist stopping nor the collision between the two bikes).

It’s possible (and quite likely IME) that the car had started edging into the turn.  First cyclist may have thought that in the absence of any evidence that the driver had seen her, she’d better execute an emergency stop.  That is, of course, complete speculation, but it did cause me to reflect on the right course of action when a vehicle starts moving to turn across one’s lane.  Maybe some of our cycling instructor brethren could reveal the magic formula?

Anyone else see this one or its aftermath?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 29 March, 2011, 11:32:51 am
I am far from an expert, but I think if I was going to do an emergency stop in a situation where there was a big group around me I would probably issue some sort of verbal warning.  Even if it was "OY! Stupid [insert expletive of choice here]!" directed at the driver I thought was going to squash me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 29 March, 2011, 11:37:46 am
It seems unlikely that it's the first cyclist's fault.  It's up to everyone behind to maintain a good stopping distance, and to be able to stop safely even in an emergency.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 29 March, 2011, 11:38:52 am
Another scalp this morning, I love fair-weather cyclists who've dug their BSO out of the shed, I burn them up!

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 29 March, 2011, 12:07:46 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 29 March, 2011, 11:37:46 am
It seems unlikely that it's the first cyclist's fault.  It's up to everyone behind to maintain a good stopping distance, and to be able to stop safely even in an emergency.

^^^
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 29 March, 2011, 12:12:17 pm
I started work a bit later this morning, as I'm finishing late, so I took the opportunity to do a longer ride.  I went north over Wandsworth Bridge, rode up Kings Road, through Victoria to Parliament Square, up Whitehall (Big Mistake - it seems to be a coach park), then along the Strand and down over Southwark Bridge.  Added almost exactly 10km (50%) to my ride, which means I might be in with a shout of reaching 1000km this month, despite various impediments.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 29 March, 2011, 12:22:17 pm
Leaving aside the painfully cold hands on arrival this morning it was a good trip.  The road closures for the "Great Rebuilding" meant that I saw even fewer cars than usual and, unlike yesterday, no flocks of suicidal pheasants hiding in the half-light.  Slightly orangy new moon into the bargain.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 29 March, 2011, 12:37:26 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 29 March, 2011, 11:37:46 am
It seems unlikely that it's the first cyclist's fault.  It's up to everyone behind to maintain a good stopping distance, and to be able to stop safely even in an emergency.

I agree with you, but I can't put my hand on my heart and say that at every point on the CS7 (which is majorly busy at the mo) I could stop safely if the cyclist in front of me threw out the anchors without any warning.  Given the way cyslists bunch together and spread out, I find it very hard to always reserve a safe stopping distance.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 29 March, 2011, 12:39:15 pm
Which is why a lot of riders come past me when I am being cautious.  I'd rather be safe if at all possible.

There are riders out there who think it's a fucking race.  Tossers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 29 March, 2011, 12:40:11 pm
Well, same here sometime, Chris.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 29 March, 2011, 12:48:26 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 29 March, 2011, 11:37:46 am
It seems unlikely that it's the first cyclist's fault.  It's up to everyone behind to maintain a good stopping distance, and to be able to stop safely even in an emergency.

I had a major rant when Miss S came back from Bikeability with a busted mech hanger when another kid ran into the back of her after they had been told "bunch together for safety"

As I 'explained' to the instructor they were supposed to be teaching how to cycle safely on the road including stopping distance, not how to ride in a f*****g peleton.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: origamist on 29 March, 2011, 01:06:08 pm
Quote from: Chris L on 29 March, 2011, 11:25:29 am
High drama this morning and uncomfortable that I didn’t do the right thing.  Large group setting off lights between Clapham North and Stockwell.  I build up speed slowly and start moving towards the front of the group.  Glance down, look up and the bike that was twenty yards in front of me is now five yards in front of me and stationary.  The cyclist next to me (equally surprised) and I slam on the brakes and swerve around stationary bike.  Said bike had stopped to allow car travelling in opposite direction to turn right (for CS7 veterans, this is the turning from Clapham Rd into Union Rd).  Car had spotted cyclists going too fast to stop and had (thankfully) desisted with the turn.

Clattering sound follows and stationary bike, rider and another bike and rider are tangled up on floor.  I’m well past by now, but I stop.  Riders and bikes get up (everyone walking) and move to the pavement accompanied by other cyclists who, I guess, must have seen what happened.  Car pulls across the lane and driver winds down window to hand out some safety tips.  Cyclist who’d been level with me and I continue towards Stockwell.

Not entirely comfortable with leaving without offering assistance.  In mitigation the incident seemed pretty well attended by the 5 or 6 people who’d stopped, and I didn’t see any of it (reason for first cyclist stopping nor the collision between the two bikes).

It’s possible (and quite likely IME) that the car had started edging into the turn.  First cyclist may have thought that in the absence of any evidence that the driver had seen her, she’d better execute an emergency stop.  That is, of course, complete speculation, but it did cause me to reflect on the right course of action when a vehicle starts moving to turn across one’s lane.  Maybe some of our cycling instructor brethren could reveal the magic formula?

Anyone else see this one or its aftermath?

It's easy and rather seductive to pick up speed along that stretch as it's both a bus lane and downhill. I actually prefer it if the traffic light is red as I approach the junction with Union Rd as cars do pull across you if it's green.

There's very little chance of the majority of cyclists adhering to safe braking distances in my experience - too much bunching and drafting along CS7.

As the CS will indubitably get busier as the weather becomes more clement, all I can recommend is shoulder checking before a junction, shout "easy" or "stopping" if a road user stops in front of you and ride in the centre or centre-right of the bus lane where possible as this tends delimit conflict with other cyclists who, by and large, use the blue strip.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 29 March, 2011, 01:17:32 pm
Ah!  'Pologies.  My Google map reading isn't as impressive as I thought it was.  We'd set off from the junction with Union Road.  The incident occurred at the junction with Jefferys Road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 29 March, 2011, 01:24:16 pm
Quote from: Chris L on 29 March, 2011, 01:17:32 pm
Ah!  'Pologies.  My Google map reading isn't as impressive as I thought it was.  We'd set off from the junction with Union Road.  The incident occurred at the junction with Jefferys Road.

Ah that used to be part of my old commute. As its a nice downhill its tempting to speed up but after a while I used to proceed with more caution towards that junction as drivers tended to opt for a quick right turn into Union Road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: origamist on 29 March, 2011, 01:29:04 pm
Quote from: Chris L on 29 March, 2011, 01:17:32 pm
Ah!  'Pologies.  My Google map reading isn't as impressive as I thought it was.  We'd set off from the junction with Union Road.  The incident occurred at the junction with Jefferys Road.

That one is even worse:


    YouTube
        - Gaps and Junctions - Defensive Cycling 15
   (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5NDeSByYcmo)

I get that kind of turn once a week along there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 29 March, 2011, 03:19:44 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 29 March, 2011, 11:37:46 am
It seems unlikely that it's the first cyclist's fault.  It's up to everyone behind to maintain a good stopping distance, and to be able to stop safely even in an emergency.

I'd agree with that, though I do try to consider what cyclists behind me are doing with regard to evasive manoeuvres, as a lot of the time (either through being on a recumbent, or because the cyclists behind me seem likely to have BSO-quality brakes) I'm going to out-brake them and be hit from behind if I just slam on the anchors.

It's more of an issue in London than it is around here, as London has far more cyclists, and a lot more of them ride at a similar sort of pace to me - around here they're usually pootlers on BSOs or mountain bikes, with a spattering of proper roadies who leave me for dust.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Access Legal Guy on 29 March, 2011, 03:22:53 pm
Quote from: origamist on 29 March, 2011, 01:29:04 pm
Quote from: Chris L on 29 March, 2011, 01:17:32 pm
Ah!  'Pologies.  My Google map reading isn't as impressive as I thought it was.  We'd set off from the junction with Union Road.  The incident occurred at the junction with Jefferys Road.

That one is even worse:


    YouTube
        - Gaps and Junctions - Defensive Cycling 15
   (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5NDeSByYcmo)

I get that kind of turn once a week along there.


Well anticipated.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Honest John on 29 March, 2011, 04:43:25 pm
Even on club rides you get plonkers who stop without warning. Always expect idiots, especially on the commute, and be prepared to take evasive action, with escape routes at the back of your mind. There are very few cyclists out there in London8AMland who know how to ride safely in a touring group, let alone a race.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 29 March, 2011, 04:53:09 pm
I never ride directly on a wheel.  I'll always be offset to the side.  That's not to say I always have room to escape; I've run into Butterfly a couple of times when distracted :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 29 March, 2011, 04:58:38 pm
I ran into the back of a colleague one time  :-[ I had been off set but he moved right and slowed as the car in front turned left and I wasn't paying sufficient attention.

Editted for spelling
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 29 March, 2011, 05:35:34 pm
Quote from: matthew on 29 March, 2011, 04:58:38 pm
I ran into the back of a colluege one time

A college? :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Honest John on 29 March, 2011, 05:45:44 pm
Quote from: clarion on 29 March, 2011, 05:35:34 pm
Quote from: matthew on 29 March, 2011, 04:58:38 pm
I ran into the back of a colluege one time

A college? :o

I ran into the back of a college almost every day between the ages of 12 and 16. That's where the school bike park was.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 29 March, 2011, 08:06:32 pm
Very nice to be commuting home in daylight, now :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 29 March, 2011, 10:33:24 pm
I think I was born a wheelsucker. I've always had the habbit of sitting close to the wheel in front. I do sit back if it's someone I don't know.
I remember my father telling me off a few times, when I used to bump the rear axle of his trike. I often rode with my front wheel between his two rear wheels.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 30 March, 2011, 08:22:32 am
I have a nice boom complete with mounted chainsaw on the front of my bike.  Touching a wheel isn't nearly so much of a concern to me as it might be on an upright.


Yesterday's commute was simply lovely, loads of good drivers around, helpful ones too.  I tried to ride slowly in recovery, and ended up with what seemed like a tailwind both ways.  Easy spinning and minimal effort resulted in a surprisingly reasonable average pace, and I feel pretty good again today.  Now I'm in with a shout of breaking 1,000km this month assuming I make tomorrow's commute also.  That'll be the first March ever, hopefully.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 30 March, 2011, 08:48:30 am
Spring was definitely in the air - passed *FIVE*  :o cyclists on the commute yesterday.  :thumbsup:

Back to the dank drizzle today, though. Slower on the winter bike too....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 30 March, 2011, 08:54:45 am
First commute since November :o

 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 30 March, 2011, 09:12:42 am
Quote from: Wendy on 30 March, 2011, 08:22:32 am
I have a nice boom complete with mounted chainsaw on the front of my bike.  Touching a wheel isn't nearly so much of a concern to me as it might be on an upright.

Yes - the Cub discovered the perils of emergency stopping unpredictably in a slightly dim place and without warning when riding ahead of a 'bent, 'specially one whose rider is a but tired, a couple of weeks back.  Fortunately the sharp edges of the ding in his rack filed out OK, and the chainrings didn't seem to come to any harm (I really really hope they didn't!). 

On the commute today, I enjoyed the lovely silence of a gleaming new chain and matching cassette and freshly tweaked indexing.  Blissful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 30 March, 2011, 09:36:16 am
After a peak on Monday of passing 4 commuters on the road outside of Taunton, and seeing some others coming the other way last night it was back to just me.

And this morning there was noone else either

I don't like the rain either.  it was loverly on Monday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 30 March, 2011, 09:40:24 am
More than thirty cyclists at the lights near Oval. :thumbsup:

Lots of numptiness - motorised and foot-powered - but nothing too drastic.

I am given to understand that Brixton was pretty much closed following a shooting, and there was an announcement on the radio that, behind me, the A3 had been closed too! :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 30 March, 2011, 09:47:54 am
I had one cyclist undertake me and 1 minute later spotted him conversing with the Metropolitan police after going through a red light  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Alouicious on 30 March, 2011, 09:59:16 am
Short commute today. 4 miles.

Sturmey dynolights.

Stopped at Tesco Express to buy breakfast.

Still dark at 06:15. Not cold though.

Rode on the footpath most of the way. Safer keeping out of the stream of cars rushing to the site.

Saw a pair of Tomcats having a fight up a tree. One fell out. "I can make a hat out of that" I thought. It got up and ran away  :(



Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 30 March, 2011, 10:06:52 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 30 March, 2011, 09:47:54 am
I had one cyclist undertake me and 1 minute later spotted him conversing with the Metropolitan police after going through a red light  :thumbsup:

Love it!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 30 March, 2011, 10:24:48 am
Quote from: Wendy on 30 March, 2011, 10:06:52 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 30 March, 2011, 09:47:54 am
I had one cyclist undertake me and 1 minute later spotted him conversing with the Metropolitan police after going through a red light  :thumbsup:

Love it!!!

He was a total knob-head  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 30 March, 2011, 10:29:25 am
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 30 March, 2011, 09:12:42 am

Yes - the Cub discovered the perils of emergency stopping unpredictably in a slightly dim place and without warning when riding ahead of a 'bent, 'specially one whose rider is a but tired, a couple of weeks back.  Fortunately the sharp edges of the ding in his rack filed out OK, and the chainrings didn't seem to come to any harm (I really really hope they didn't!). 

Chain rings are fine.  And yes, I did have a tired butt.  Your Cub did a fantastic job of not crying - kudos to him and I'm still really really sorry.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 30 March, 2011, 10:31:21 am
I would feel just as bad as you did, rower, and I'm sorry for raking over the coals.  I only meant that riding an upright gives you double motivation not to run into someone else - the hurting of them, and additionally the possibility of hurting yourself.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Alouicious on 30 March, 2011, 10:43:31 am
Interestingly, the Highway code has had the 'Thinking distance' at 20 mph as 6 metres. At 10 mph, it would be 3 metres. At 15 mph, it would be 4.5 ish.

Riding a bicycle in a group, if the rider ahead brakes suddenly, most experienced and attentative cyclists can come to a rest within the HC 'Thinking distance'.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 30 March, 2011, 10:54:09 am
Shouted "Oi, Prick!" at a cyclist this morning.  Reason?  Early in my commute is a junction of five roads; the light sequence is slow to change and can be reset by pedestrians, making for short-tempered drivers.  I often see cyclists RLJing when there's obviously nobody at the exits favoured by the lights, but I've never before seen anybody do what this prick did.  Listen mate, when the lights have changed in favour of my exit and I am launching myself across the junction, followed and near-flanked by several impatient cars who will not give me room to swerve, you do not crash the lights and cycle at your full speed right in front of me.  I can't believe that it took me shouting at you to make you brake, you unspeakable cockwomble.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: origamist on 30 March, 2011, 11:03:20 am
Quote from: Alouicious on 30 March, 2011, 10:43:31 am
Interestingly, the Highway code has had the 'Thinking distance' at 20 mph as 6 metres. At 10 mph, it would be 3 metres. At 15 mph, it would be 4.5 ish.

Riding a bicycle in a group, if the rider ahead brakes suddenly, most experienced and attentative cyclists can come to a rest within the HC 'Thinking distance'.

Thinking time (aka reaction time) + braking distance is not 6m at 20mph it is closer to double that (overall stopping distance) in the dry, with an alert cyclist, with properly adjusted brakes...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Alouicious on 30 March, 2011, 11:14:17 am
Quote from: origamist on 30 March, 2011, 11:03:20 am
Quote from: Alouicious on 30 March, 2011, 10:43:31 am
Interestingly, the Highway code has had the 'Thinking distance' at 20 mph as 6 metres. At 10 mph, it would be 3 metres. At 15 mph, it would be 4.5 ish.

Riding a bicycle in a group, if the rider ahead brakes suddenly, most experienced and attentative cyclists can come to a rest within the HC 'Thinking distance'.

Thinking time (aka reaction time) + braking distance is not 6m at 20mph it is closer to double that (overall stopping distance) in the dry, with an alert cyclist, with properly adjusted brakes...

Which reinforces the advice of 'if you ride at 15 mph within 4.5 m of a vehicle with no brake lights, you better be alert and ready to brake suddenly'.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smurphboy on 30 March, 2011, 11:31:11 am
2 mins quicker on the commute this am... possibly a delayed reaction to my shame at being scalped by a trailerbike earlier in the week... or possibly freshmeat on the roads encouraging me to push the pedals down harder.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: origamist on 30 March, 2011, 11:50:44 am
Quote from: Alouicious on 30 March, 2011, 11:14:17 am
Quote from: origamist on 30 March, 2011, 11:03:20 am
Quote from: Alouicious on 30 March, 2011, 10:43:31 am
Interestingly, the Highway code has had the 'Thinking distance' at 20 mph as 6 metres. At 10 mph, it would be 3 metres. At 15 mph, it would be 4.5 ish.

Riding a bicycle in a group, if the rider ahead brakes suddenly, most experienced and attentative cyclists can come to a rest within the HC 'Thinking distance'.

Thinking time (aka reaction time) + braking distance is not 6m at 20mph it is closer to double that (overall stopping distance) in the dry, with an alert cyclist, with properly adjusted brakes...

Which reinforces the advice of 'if you ride at 15 mph within 4.5 m of a vehicle with no brake lights, you better be alert and ready to brake suddenly'.

As you would not be able to stop within 4.5m at 15mph, it's far better advice to keep a greater distance from the cyclist in front when you're commuting.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 30 March, 2011, 11:55:30 am
Quote from: rower40 on 30 March, 2011, 10:29:25 am
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 30 March, 2011, 09:12:42 am

Yes - the Cub discovered the perils of emergency stopping unpredictably in a slightly dim place and without warning when riding ahead of a 'bent, 'specially one whose rider is a but bit tired, a couple of weeks back.  Fortunately the sharp edges of the ding in his rack filed out OK, and the chainrings didn't seem to come to any harm (I really really hope they didn't!). 

Chain rings are fine.  And yes, I did have a tired butt.  Your Cub did a fantastic job of not crying - kudos to him and I'm still really really sorry.

Well, he wasn't hurt, just a bit shocked.  And I know that you were adamant that (technically speaking) the person behind is always to blame, but he got the junction wrong which didn't help.  And you don't need to be sorry.  T'was a learning experience for him, and he'll benefit from it  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Alouicious on 30 March, 2011, 11:58:09 am
The brake warning system on a bicycle is vocal.

The rider shouts "Stoppin'!"

This is of course if they are a good enough cyclist to know there is another cyclist close behind, by way of the 'rearward glance'. At more regular intervals than you would believe in a tightly packed bunch of commuters or leisure cyclists.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 30 March, 2011, 12:01:25 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 30 March, 2011, 10:54:09 am
Shouted "Oi, Prick!" at a cyclist this morning.  Reason?  Early in my commute is a junction of five roads; the light sequence is slow to change and can be reset by pedestrians, making for short-tempered drivers.  I often see cyclists RLJing when there's obviously nobody at the exits favoured by the lights, but I've never before seen anybody do what this prick did.  Listen mate, when the lights have changed in favour of my exit and I am launching myself across the junction, followed and near-flanked by several impatient cars who will not give me room to swerve, you do not crash the lights and cycle at your full speed right in front of me.  I can't believe that it took me shouting at you to make you brake, you unspeakable cockwomble.


I saw exactly the same happen in front of me this morning in Bermondsey, except the clown who sailed straight through the red light and nearly collided with a cyclist who had almost completed crossing the junction (i.e. several seconds after the lights had changed) seemed oblivious to anything going on around him.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Alouicious on 30 March, 2011, 12:09:21 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 30 March, 2011, 12:01:25 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 30 March, 2011, 10:54:09 am
Shouted "Oi, Prick!" at a cyclist this morning.  Reason?  Early in my commute is a junction of five roads; the light sequence is slow to change and can be reset by pedestrians, making for short-tempered drivers.  I often see cyclists RLJing when there's obviously nobody at the exits favoured by the lights, but I've never before seen anybody do what this prick did.  Listen mate, when the lights have changed in favour of my exit and I am launching myself across the junction, followed and near-flanked by several impatient cars who will not give me room to swerve, you do not crash the lights and cycle at your full speed right in front of me.  I can't believe that it took me shouting at you to make you brake, you unspeakable cockwomble.


I saw exactly the same happen in front of me this morning in Bermondsey, except the clown who sailed straight through the red light and nearly collided with a cyclist who had almost completed crossing the junction (i.e. several seconds after the lights had changed) seemed oblivious to anything going on around him.

Too busy punching the air after hearing the FTSE is up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 30 March, 2011, 09:57:49 pm
Despite being a bit slower today on the heavy duty winter commuter, passed another 4 cyclists over the Peaks on the way home this evening :)
Three of them were fit looking guys with big muscles on carbon bling wearing "Tri UK" jerseys so I guess they were on a Triathlon club run or something. Must be their first ride of the season - they did not keep up...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 30 March, 2011, 10:00:39 pm
Cycled home in civvies, this evening.  Kept up to more or less my normal pace.  Stopped at a coffee shop just before home, thinking "Maybe I should just commute in regular clothes".  Then spotted the large circles of sweat around my armpits.  Oh, right, that's why.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 30 March, 2011, 10:02:59 pm
Headwind. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 31 March, 2011, 09:37:21 am
16 miles of relentless 25mph gusting to over 50mph headwind. 
Not much fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 31 March, 2011, 09:46:04 am
Tailwind.

But couldn't make the most of it, because there were significant sections of gridlocked motor traffic to weave through.

Why do people do that to themselves?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 31 March, 2011, 09:47:19 am
Enountered several manifestations of the "Oh, there's a car behind you as well" two-step, where a driver has seen you and decides to push out into the road anyway, only to realise there's a car right behind you.  It's not as if I'm large enough to block their view of the car, or that the car suddenly loomed into view round a corner; just that they see the cyclist first and react with annoyance or disdain and this distracts them.

Yes, there's a car right behind me.  That's the second of two reasons why I'm not slowing down and giving way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 31 March, 2011, 09:50:22 am
The first being a great quote from Andy about the priority list of safety and convenience:

"My safety
Your safety
My convenience
Your convenience"

Driver at side junction - you're at the bottom of the list.  Now wait there like a good little boy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 31 March, 2011, 10:06:59 am
Approaching a school, car parked on the opp side. I am in the middle of the road to stop the cars behind pushing through. Despite that, the nose of a lime green fiesta appears in my peripheral vision, and keeps coming. I veer into the curb to avoid and give the wing mirror a hell of a slap. Car keeps going. I then see kids dropped off and the same car queuing to get out of the one-way. I pop over.

Me: That was ridiculously unsafe.
Her: Sorry. I though I hit you.
Me: ??? Err (why didn't she stop then?) ... I'm the father of two small kids. If I'm dead, who is going to pay for the the food and the house?
Her: Sorry, I thought I could squeeze through
Me: You should never squeeze through. I've got two small kids. You should think about what your doing when you're in a rush.
Her: Sorry, I've got kids too.

I left it at that. I am going to have to start employing a safety wobble. Fortunately, I usually avoid school traffic, but was running late.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 31 March, 2011, 10:19:54 am
Quote from: Wendy on 31 March, 2011, 09:50:22 am
The first being a great quote from Andy about the priority list of safety and convenience:

"My safety
Your safety
My convenience
Your convenience"

Driver at side junction - you're at the bottom of the list.  Now wait there like a good little boy.

Please sir, please sir, I use that too, but slightly modded.

My safety
Your safety
The law
The Highway Code
My convenience
Your convenience

Who's Andy ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 31 March, 2011, 10:22:03 am
Tailwind, over took a tractor etc etc. Video will be posted as soon as I figure out how
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 31 March, 2011, 10:25:12 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 31 March, 2011, 10:22:03 am
Tailwind, over took a tractor etc etc. Video will be posted as soon as I figure out how

You don't think we'd believe you overtook a tractor without proof?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 31 March, 2011, 10:32:03 am
Quote from: clarion on 31 March, 2011, 09:46:04 am
Tailwind.

But couldn't make the most of it, because there were significant sections of gridlocked motor traffic to weave through.

Why do people do that to themselves?

Thats what I was thinking as I sailed past hundreds of cars in gridlock on Jamaica Road today.

I saw a Landrover take great offence at a cyclist who was in primary position on Ludgate Hill. It's bloody Ludgate Hill. Where is there room for your car to overtake?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 31 March, 2011, 10:35:08 am
Shouldn't have worn the jacket, far too warm. Forumite spotted.

Hoping that the bike shop will ring to say they have the child seat mounting bar delivered. That and this evening's planned pootle round the park should take me over 100km for the day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 31 March, 2011, 11:23:31 am
I came across an argument between the driver of a silver Fiat going straight on and the owner of a red metro who had pulled out of a side road. Fiat driver in car, passive and Metro owner with comedy Eastern European accent offering a fight and or death first to the driver then to me as an observer. There was then much revving/reversing/forwarding of Metro which then cut in front of Fiat and turned left. Fiat and I move on to next set of lights and I ask the driver if he's ok etc at which point the Metro returns having gone round three sides of a square and the driver is out of the car, shouting about fight/death etc to both of us (again!). All this at 7.10am. The lights change and off we go, hopefully not to see him again but a v.angry man on the loose.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 31 March, 2011, 12:08:37 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 31 March, 2011, 10:25:12 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 31 March, 2011, 10:22:03 am
Tailwind, over took a tractor etc etc. Video will be posted as soon as I figure out how

You don't think we'd believe you overtook a tractor without proof?



    YouTube
        - blagwar.avi
   (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7QVlNVwNEr0)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mad Jack on 31 March, 2011, 10:51:10 pm
Quote from: vorsprung on 31 March, 2011, 12:08:37 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 31 March, 2011, 10:25:12 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 31 March, 2011, 10:22:03 am
Tailwind, over took a tractor etc etc. Video will be posted as soon as I figure out how

You don't think we'd believe you overtook a tractor without proof?



    YouTube
        - blagwar.avi
   (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7QVlNVwNEr0)

Looks slow, but it is wet. Noticed how much quicker you go when you see the tractor!  :thumbsup:

Is the Cam on your lid?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 01 April, 2011, 09:43:57 am
I don't know whether it was April Fools today, but some people were cycling whilst being under the influence of stupidity  >:( So many cyclists commuting - it was like the bloody peloton on Tooley Street  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Access Legal Guy on 01 April, 2011, 10:33:31 am
Sat in my office yesterday lookign at the trees moving in the wind and thinking 'oh dear, that's going to hurt on the way home''...... it did.

This morning was still windy, but I was sheltered from most of it thankfully and it's due to die down a bit.

left a bit later than usual today. I cycle past two schools and was amazed at some of the driving and moreso at some of the parking!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hulver on 01 April, 2011, 11:17:25 am
Wonderful commute yesterday.

A bit of rain on the way into Sheffield, started building up to a head wind just as I got to the centre.

By the time I'd finished my meeting it was a stonking tail wind, that practically blew me up East bank road and over to Gleadless. Wonderful.

Spoilt a bit by my Left crank coming loose, despite me tightening it up again, it kept coming loose. 'tis knackered I think. Made it home, although I had to walk the last bit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 01 April, 2011, 11:37:36 am
Quote from: hulver on 01 April, 2011, 11:17:25 am
Spoilt a bit by my Left crank coming loose, despite me tightening it up again, it kept coming loose. 'tis knackered I think. Made it home, although I had to walk the last bit.

Hope it didn't damage the spindle.  I had to replace my bb when that happened to me.

Smooth and speedy commute in today, despite me feeling rather tired after a) heavy weights session last night and b) not having breakfast before setting off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 01 April, 2011, 11:38:06 am
Quote from: Mad Jack on 31 March, 2011, 10:51:10 pm

Looks slow, but it is wet. Noticed how much quicker you go when you see the tractor!  :thumbsup:

Is the Cam on your lid?


Yeah it was wettish, had to wipe the lense
I am using a 7day shop handlebar camera mount like this
7dayshop.com - Online Store (http://www.7dayshop.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=777_1&products_id=110575)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 01 April, 2011, 11:46:46 am
I noticed some highway chaps painting bikes on the road on my commute then read this yesterday:

http://www.eveningnews24.co.uk/news/busy_norwich_road_made_safer_for_cyclists_1_846724

The paint's not dry yet, that headline's a bit premature!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hulver on 01 April, 2011, 01:49:50 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 01 April, 2011, 11:37:36 am
Quote from: hulver on 01 April, 2011, 11:17:25 am
Spoilt a bit by my Left crank coming loose, despite me tightening it up again, it kept coming loose. 'tis knackered I think. Made it home, although I had to walk the last bit.

Hope it didn't damage the spindle.  I had to replace my bb when that happened to me.

Smooth and speedy commute in today, despite me feeling rather tired after a) heavy weights session last night and b) not having breakfast before setting off.


I think it might have done. It's been creaking for a while, shame on me for not checking it sooner.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Access Legal Guy on 04 April, 2011, 09:23:43 am

quite simply a glorious morning - it's why everybody should cycle.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 April, 2011, 09:29:07 am
Oh yes.  Wonderful day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 04 April, 2011, 09:55:32 am
There was ground frost in Devon and it was cold setting out
I removed buff/headband/gilet to do the big climb however, it seemed to warm up PDQ
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 04 April, 2011, 10:15:37 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 04 April, 2011, 09:55:32 am
There was ground frost in Devon and it was cold setting out
...and in Glos. although quite patchy.

Quote from: vorsprung on 04 April, 2011, 09:55:32 am
...it seemed to warm up PDQ
Not here.  Still pretty cold by the time I got to work.  Quite pretty tho'; clear skies and low mist.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Alouicious on 04 April, 2011, 11:00:45 am
The pony club didn't sweep the lane yesterday afternoon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 April, 2011, 11:02:39 am
;D TGL was a bit miffed by the 'lingering' on his front tyre after the North Downs Way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 05 April, 2011, 10:58:18 am
So it turns out that cycling is quite good for a sore and stiff back, if you do it properly.  Nice to know. 

At Chelsea Bridge, encountered a nob on a red fixed Spesh, cycling like a complete cock (and badly, and slowly).  I commented on the nuisance he was causing and he called me out, offering to beat me to the Kings Road.  Left him in my dust ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 April, 2011, 10:59:45 am
What a prat.

Er, not you, bruce.  I meant the other guy ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RJ on 05 April, 2011, 11:02:05 am
Quote from: clarion on 04 April, 2011, 11:02:39 am
;D TGL was a bit miffed by the 'lingering' on his front tyre after the North Downs Way.

Would that be a niff whiff miff??
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 05 April, 2011, 01:04:53 pm
Saw a cyclist around mile end on a Nice red and white Bianchi  :thumbsup: wearing Francaise des Jeux pro team cycle shorts  :thumbsup: and ..........had basic metal pedals and thick soled running trainers  :hand: :hand: :hand:  so so wrong  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: welshwheels on 05 April, 2011, 06:54:16 pm
bloody wind today and yesterday  :( thought i was going to be blown off loughour bridge 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 05 April, 2011, 07:20:02 pm
First go at riding home from my new office. 14.75miles, 58 minutes.

I think I will be taking the bike in on the train and riding home more often.  :thumbsup:

Pity about the sign written transit van overtake though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 April, 2011, 08:31:44 pm
Cor, that were windy again!

Managed precisely 20.0kph average.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 05 April, 2011, 08:57:29 pm
Quote from: clarion on 05 April, 2011, 08:31:44 pm
Cor, that were windy again!

Managed precisely 20.0kph average.

Sebastian's teddy bear would be proud of you. I see a 100km audax in your future.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 April, 2011, 09:07:03 pm
;D  Yon sawdust-head has nowt ter do wi' it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 05 April, 2011, 09:10:12 pm
Quote from: clarion on 05 April, 2011, 08:31:44 pm
Cor, that were windy again!

Managed precisely 20.0kph average.

Is that the average for out and return?
I only ever check the average for the whole day's commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 April, 2011, 09:12:41 pm
No, that's directly into the headwind for an hour.  I know I'm not fast, but I do stop for red lights & stuff (and there are a lot).

Average this morning was about 23kph. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 05 April, 2011, 09:14:32 pm
I'd love 20kph into a strong wind, in traffic.  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: YahudaMoon on 05 April, 2011, 09:23:02 pm
The lemmings were out in force today in town, throwing themselves into the road at a very high rate. I got bored with em so started saying 'Lemming Alert !' on my approach.

Then a taxi driver decided he wanted me and my bike in his black cab for some reason ? Maybe my left hand signal to turn left was mistaken for me hailing a taxi ?

As he stopped his cab,  giving me inches between his cab and the kerb. I noticed he was sorting the cash out for the punter in the back of the cab looking into his lap and his pile of coins.

I called through his his window. 'don't you look when your driving then '?

Then there was the usual bus drivers again
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 05 April, 2011, 09:26:49 pm
Don't know why, but when I rode away from the gym this evening, I felt as if I had wings, or that the bike was as light as foam. Amazing sensation and it lasted for the whole commute home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 05 April, 2011, 09:28:29 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 05 April, 2011, 09:26:49 pm
Don't know why, but when I rode away from the gym this evening, I felt as if I had wings, or that the bike was as light as foam. Amazing sensation and it lasted for the whole commute home.
@everyone.  No.  Leave it!  Don't mention the wind direction.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 April, 2011, 09:31:09 pm
Except it would be, at best, a crosswind for our Bruce.  Perhaps he's made of sterner stuff?  Carved from Scots granite, or summat?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 05 April, 2011, 09:31:47 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 05 April, 2011, 09:26:49 pm
Don't know why, but when I rode away from the gym this evening, I felt as if I had wings, or that the bike was as light as foam. Amazing sensation and it lasted for the whole commute home.

That's steroids for you.......!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: YahudaMoon on 05 April, 2011, 09:31:59 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 05 April, 2011, 09:26:49 pm
Don't know why, but when I rode away from the gym this evening, I felt as if I had wings, or that the bike was as light as foam. Amazing sensation and it lasted for the whole commute home.

on steds
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: YahudaMoon on 05 April, 2011, 09:32:46 pm
lol
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 05 April, 2011, 09:36:28 pm
Quote from: clarion on 05 April, 2011, 09:31:09 pm
Except it would be, at best, a crosswind for our Bruce.  Perhaps he's made of sterner stuff?  Carved from Scots granite, or summat?

I'd also like to point out that it persisted no matter what the direction, young Basil. My route from the gym to the office to home takes me round most points of the compass. So nerr.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 05 April, 2011, 09:57:38 pm
Sorry.  Didn't mean to offend.

Quote from: itsbruce on 05 April, 2011, 09:36:28 pm

[...]young Basil.[...]

I love you.


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 06 April, 2011, 09:17:42 am
Nice commute yesterday, I tried very hard not to rag it and instead ride more steadily at an almost recovery pace.  I was really suffering from the weekend when I couldn't stop myself.  Much better - some easy spinning and I feel a lot better this morning.

Oh, and tarty white bont cycling shoes plus dark country lanes plus recumbent plus Exposure MaXx-D equals a blinding flash every pedal stroke.  Oops!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 06 April, 2011, 09:20:15 am
Time for the really lightweight cycling gear, now. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 06 April, 2011, 09:38:30 am
First time on the bike for what seems like months, but is only two weeks.

Stripped of all the lights. Sun out. Little wind. Heaven.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 April, 2011, 09:58:30 am
Fast.  there may have been traces of tailwind ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 06 April, 2011, 10:07:02 am
Rode in to work on the Bat Bike, complete with 26" wheels, racks etc. - the only people who acknowledged me were the MTBers, nothing but stink-eye from the roadies. Wonder if the reverse would have been true if I'd been riding Orange Gina ...

Clearly, some things never change.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 06 April, 2011, 10:18:33 am
Quote from: hatler on 06 April, 2011, 09:38:30 am
...Stripped of all the lights...
Git. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 06 April, 2011, 10:37:50 am
Some of us need lights all year round.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 06 April, 2011, 12:59:22 pm
2nd day of my extended commute from 4 miles each way to 24 there 4 back. Even at 5:30 am i was down to a T-shirt it was so warm  8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 06 April, 2011, 01:12:38 pm
Way-Hey!

First time this year for shorts in the morning!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 06 April, 2011, 01:22:40 pm
I guess Nutty is trying to find ways to deal with his heatstroke...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: welshwheels on 06 April, 2011, 08:07:50 pm
loveley ride in shorts  :thumbsup:   need to get a new rear wheel for my road bike i think so i can throw in a few miles in after work aswell  :thumbsup: 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 06 April, 2011, 08:20:24 pm
Wish I'd been on the bike. Fatality at Surbiton pretty much shut down South West Trains this evening at rush hour. Had to bail to the tube to get to the nursery in time to pick up baby GB.

No more train though as the bike shop should be getting the mounting bar for the child seat tomorrow which means I can deliver/collect baby GB by bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 06 April, 2011, 08:46:18 pm
Paused part way up Elm Grove to lend an allen key to a chap with alarmingly loose handlebars, who was hill training in preparation for lejog. A nice sunny ride home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 April, 2011, 08:55:14 pm
Much faster ride home.  Oh - and the first outing for my hairy legs this year :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 06 April, 2011, 09:07:09 pm
Quote from: clarion on 06 April, 2011, 08:55:14 pm
Much faster ride home.  Oh - and the first outing for my hairy legs this year :thumbsup:

(http://cache2.artprintimages.com/lrg/30/3005/7XGBF00Z.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 April, 2011, 09:08:23 pm
I thought that too, and what a fab pic!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 06 April, 2011, 09:15:11 pm
This is always a weird time of year.
Morning: Altura jacket, under gloves under my mitts (looks 'orrible but works for me)
Evening: Short sleeved top and pannier stuffed full of clothing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 06 April, 2011, 09:50:16 pm
Quote from: Basil on 06 April, 2011, 09:15:11 pm
This is always a weird time of year.
Morning: Altura jacket, under gloves under my mitts (looks 'orrible but works for me)
Evening: Short sleeved top and pannier stuffed full of clothing.
^^ This ^^.

I have often wondered what time I should leave home so that I can do an 8 hour day at work, AND the air temperature is the same on the way in as on the way home again. (i.e. it doesn't matter what that temperature IS, but there must be a horizontal line that's 8 hours long on the temperature/time graph.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 06 April, 2011, 10:18:52 pm
Quote from: rower40 on 06 April, 2011, 09:50:16 pm
Quote from: Basil on 06 April, 2011, 09:15:11 pm
This is always a weird time of year.
Morning: Altura jacket, under gloves under my mitts (looks 'orrible but works for me)
Evening: Short sleeved top and pannier stuffed full of clothing.
^^ This ^^.

I have often wondered what time I should leave home so that I can do an 8 hour day at work, AND the air temperature is the same on the way in as on the way home again. (i.e. it doesn't matter what that temperature IS, but there must be a horizontal line that's 8 hours long on the temperature/time graph.)

It'll change each and every day, and it would be tricky to predict in advance, but you can retrospectively work it out if you fine a graph of a day's temperature with enough granularity.

The personal weather station thread might give you some useful links...

Taking Wow and Dez's info: Last 24 Hours Weather: Southend-on-Sea,Essex (http://tickfield.thewalkers.org.uk/weather/Daily.htm) it looks like it's sometime between 10.30am and 6.30pm for today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 06 April, 2011, 10:24:01 pm
I had this on Sunday's commute:

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 06 April, 2011, 11:28:37 pm
I'll Roadsafe her in the morning.  I wonder how indignant she'll be?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: YahudaMoon on 07 April, 2011, 05:10:48 am
Quote from: Wendy on 06 April, 2011, 11:28:37 pm
I'll Roadsafe her in the morning.  I wonder how indignant she'll be?
Hi Wendy. Is it just me or are car drivers just becoming more impatient and aggressive with there driving ?

Anyway good work ! enjoyed the film clips in a cringing way.

Keep it up !

Thanks
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Alouicious on 07 April, 2011, 07:34:39 am
Ah well, I've delayed this from yesterday.

I got my bike out of the car at 04:55, prep'ing for my commute. I looked up at the starry sky to see if Orion was visible.

I saw a bright light ( brighter than any of the stars ) travelling northward at quite a rate of knots. There were no navigation lights and the intensity of the light didn't fade as the thing passed.
It travelled half the horizon ( directly overhead to horizon ) in about 15 seconds. Visible all the way.

It was totally silent. The speed was similar to a low flying helicopter, but they make a row and their lights flash. Satellites travel West to East. This thing was travelling South to North.

There were no discernable con-trails when sunlight illuminated the sky half an hour later.

If it was high altitude, it must have been travelling at least ten times the speed of a commercial jet aircraft.
If it was low altitude, I couldn't hear any engines or rotor pulsation. Nor constant or flashing navigation lights.

???



Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 07 April, 2011, 07:45:15 am
Quote from: Alouicious on 07 April, 2011, 07:34:39 am
Ah well, I've delayed this from yesterday.

I got my bike out of the car at 04:55, prep'ing for my commute. I looked up at the starry sky to see if Orion was visible.

I saw a bright light ( brighter than any of the stars ) travelling northward at quite a rate of knots. There were no navigation lights and the intensity of the light didn't fade as the thing passed.
It travelled half the horizon ( directly overhead to horizon ) in about 15 seconds. Visible all the way.

It was totally silent. The speed was similar to a low flying helicopter, but they make a row and their lights flash. Satellites travel West to East. This thing was travelling South to North.

There were no discernable con-trails when sunlight illuminated the sky half an hour later.

If it was high altitude, it must have been travelling at least ten times the speed of a commercial jet aircraft.
If it was low altitude, I couldn't hear any engines or rotor pulsation. Nor constant or flashing navigation lights.

???





ISS.
Look here (http://www.heavens-above.com/PassSummary.aspx?satid=25544&Session=kebgfecfpeiekbijkgabimcf).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Alouicious on 07 April, 2011, 07:46:29 am
Quote from: Wendy on 06 April, 2011, 11:28:37 pm
I'll Roadsafe her in the morning.  I wonder how indignant she'll be?

You could have made the local BBC news web page.

"Woman cyclist punches male car passenger".

The car's female driver stopped intentionally to present to you the opportunity.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Alouicious on 07 April, 2011, 07:47:26 am
Quote from: Jurek on 07 April, 2011, 07:45:15 am
Quote from: Alouicious on 07 April, 2011, 07:34:39 am
Ah well, I've delayed this from yesterday.

I got my bike out of the car at 04:55, prep'ing for my commute. I looked up at the starry sky to see if Orion was visible.

I saw a bright light ( brighter than any of the stars ) travelling northward at quite a rate of knots. There were no navigation lights and the intensity of the light didn't fade as the thing passed.
It travelled half the horizon ( directly overhead to horizon ) in about 15 seconds. Visible all the way.

It was totally silent. The speed was similar to a low flying helicopter, but they make a row and their lights flash. Satellites travel West to East. This thing was travelling South to North.

There were no discernable con-trails when sunlight illuminated the sky half an hour later.

If it was high altitude, it must have been travelling at least ten times the speed of a commercial jet aircraft.
If it was low altitude, I couldn't hear any engines or rotor pulsation. Nor constant or flashing navigation lights.

???





ISS.

Inter Stellar Spacecraft ????
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 07 April, 2011, 07:50:19 am
Quote from: Alouicious on 07 April, 2011, 07:47:26 am
Quote from: Jurek on 07 April, 2011, 07:45:15 am
Quote from: Alouicious on 07 April, 2011, 07:34:39 am
Ah well, I've delayed this from yesterday.

I got my bike out of the car at 04:55, prep'ing for my commute. I looked up at the starry sky to see if Orion was visible.

I saw a bright light ( brighter than any of the stars ) travelling northward at quite a rate of knots. There were no navigation lights and the intensity of the light didn't fade as the thing passed.
It travelled half the horizon ( directly overhead to horizon ) in about 15 seconds. Visible all the way.

It was totally silent. The speed was similar to a low flying helicopter, but they make a row and their lights flash. Satellites travel West to East. This thing was travelling South to North.

There were no discernable con-trails when sunlight illuminated the sky half an hour later.

If it was high altitude, it must have been travelling at least ten times the speed of a commercial jet aircraft.
If it was low altitude, I couldn't hear any engines or rotor pulsation. Nor constant or flashing navigation lights.

???





ISS.

Inter Stellar Spacecraft ????
International Space Station.
Look here (http://www.heavens-above.com/PassSummary.aspx?satid=25544&Session=kebgfecfpeiekbijkgabimcf).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 07 April, 2011, 08:10:07 am
Quote from: Alouicious on 07 April, 2011, 07:46:29 am
Quote from: Wendy on 06 April, 2011, 11:28:37 pm
I'll Roadsafe her in the morning.  I wonder how indignant she'll be?

You could have made the local BBC news web page.

"Woman cyclist punches male car passenger".

The car's female driver stopped intentionally to present to you the opportunity.

Err, a more accurate headline would have been:

"Burly Zimbabwean bloke who uses woman's name on a popular cycling forum punches male car passenger"

Except I don't think Mike (for it is he) would punch someone.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 07 April, 2011, 08:19:18 am
Ahhhhh, the skylarks singing, the sun poking over the horizon, pinky clouds, the first cowslip of the year, floppity bunnies, all the fluffy lambs and the roe deer barrelling out of the hedgerow at full tilt and missing me by bloody inches....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 07 April, 2011, 08:36:25 am
Quote from: TheLurker on 07 April, 2011, 08:19:18 am
Ahhhhh, the skylarks singing, the sun poking over the horizon, pinky clouds, the first cowslip of the year, floppity bunnies, all the fluffy lambs and the roe deer barrelling out of the hedgerow at full tilt and missing me by bloody inches....

surely not? Been out for a couple of weeks at least, here.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 07 April, 2011, 08:38:41 am
Quote from: TheLurker link=topic=26458.msg908008#msg908008
 and the roe deer barrelling out of the hedgerow at full tilt and missing me by bloody inches....
[/quote

Now describe that from the deer's point of view.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 07 April, 2011, 09:11:28 am
Best draft ever this morning. Picked up a 6 wheel dumper truck in the Kingston one way and he took me all the way to Sunbury Cross.

He was a smooth and considerate driver and there was not a single hairy moment.

Bliss !
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 April, 2011, 09:18:32 am
Grand day for a ride! :thumbsup: :D

But I'm inside at my desk running the year end :(

Lovely commute, mind, if you ignore the two drivers who tried to hit me within ten minutes and the gridlock at Clapham Common and the idiot motorcyclists and the crazy Spanish bus driver at Newington. ;D

I really enjoyed it.  Lots of cyclists out.  People enjoying walking in the sunshine.  Still enough people who wanted to hide in a metal box to jam up the streets, but a lot of people were really enjoying the morning.  Wonderful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 07 April, 2011, 09:22:42 am
Quote from: boab on 07 April, 2011, 08:36:25 am
Quote from: TheLurker on 07 April, 2011, 08:19:18 am
Ahhhhh, the skylarks singing, the sun poking over the horizon, pinky clouds, the first cowslip of the year, floppity bunnies, all the fluffy lambs and the roe deer barrelling out of the hedgerow at full tilt and missing me by bloody inches....

surely not? Been out for a couple of weeks at least, here.
First one I've seen hereabouts and all on its lonesome.  Same with the garden variety primroses; they've only just started to flower in the last week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 07 April, 2011, 09:48:00 am
Off to get my legs waxed later, then I'll be able to get them out for this afternoon's commute.

Hairy legs plus lycra =  :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 07 April, 2011, 10:00:07 am
Quote from: Wendy on 07 April, 2011, 09:48:00 am
Off to get my legs waxed later, then I'll be able to get them out for this afternoon's commute.

Hairy legs plus lycra =  :sick:

Don't hide your hairy legs; be proud of them!

(http://blogs.coventrytelegraph.net/passtheremote/wise.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 April, 2011, 10:03:17 am
I'm a man; my legs are hairy.  It's how they are, and I don't mind.

Anyway, I forgot to mention that I was followed to Mitcham eastfields by a chap on a Ribble.  I suspect that he is a faster rider than me, but he didn't pass, even where there was plenty of space.

When we stopped at some lights, he came alongside and commented on the Sturmey.  He didn't seem to know about it, but he had noted I was riding fixed and using more than one gear - observant, I think.  He seemed impressed by the idea, and I just waffled a bit before we set off in different directions.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Alouicious on 07 April, 2011, 10:29:43 am
Quote from: Tim Hall on 07 April, 2011, 08:10:07 am
Quote from: Alouicious on 07 April, 2011, 07:46:29 am
Quote from: Wendy on 06 April, 2011, 11:28:37 pm
I'll Roadsafe her in the morning.  I wonder how indignant she'll be?

You could have made the local BBC news web page.

"Woman cyclist punches male car passenger".

The car's female driver stopped intentionally to present to you the opportunity.

Err, a more accurate headline would have been:

"Burly Zimbabwean bloke who uses woman's name on a popular cycling forum punches male car passenger"

Except I don't think Mike (for it is he) would punch someone.

Cheers.

What gave me the impression Wendy and Bentmikey were an item?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 07 April, 2011, 10:58:50 am
You are correct, they are an item.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 07 April, 2011, 11:05:37 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 07 April, 2011, 10:58:50 am
You are correct, they are an item.

I think it's the waxing of the legs that gives it away.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 07 April, 2011, 12:06:48 pm
They are quite inseparable.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 April, 2011, 12:07:34 pm
What?  The legs?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sigod on 07 April, 2011, 12:15:53 pm
The Community Plod were out and about handing around literature for www.imobilise.com (http://www.imobilise.com) (bike and property registration) to passing cyclists in Tooting last night. I happily submitted to the patter for 5 mins and had my bike tagged.

Has anyone else out there had a similar experience?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 07 April, 2011, 12:18:14 pm
Quote from: clarion on 07 April, 2011, 12:07:34 pm
What?  The legs?

Oh, not the legs.  I heard Wendy's recumbent was Y-shaped...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 07 April, 2011, 12:25:29 pm
Quote from: sigod on 07 April, 2011, 12:15:53 pm
The Community Plod were out and about handing around literature for www.imobilise.com (http://www.imobilise.com) (bike and property registration) to passing cyclists in Tooting last night. I happily submitted to the patter for 5 mins and had my bike tagged.

Has anyone else out there had a similar experience?

Yes, Pluck and I got our bikes tagged after spotting them setting up in Richmond Park one sunny afternoon.

They also do it on the second Thursday of every month near Blackfriars Bridge. I hope to go next Thursday to get another bike done.

More details here for all locations covered by the Met:-

http://www.met.police.uk/transport/cycle_marking.html
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 07 April, 2011, 12:35:47 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 07 April, 2011, 12:18:14 pm
Oh, not the legs.  I heard Wendy's recumbent was Y-shaped...


No,  it's called a noodle bike.   ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 April, 2011, 08:47:58 pm
What on earth happened tonight? ???

Despite having stopped to answer the phone and missing a whole cycle of the lights at Tooting station, I realised on approaching the village that I was well ahead of my notional schedule.  Even with stoopid traffic on the High St, I got home with an average of 23kph, which is fast even for a morning ride*.

Of course, I reasoned.  The wind must have turned and been behind me.

Nope.  I just rode that fast.  Bizarre.




* Fast for me, OK.  Fast for me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 07 April, 2011, 10:00:32 pm
Bit slower this today - headwinds both ways. 25kph avg. Overtook 7  :o cyclists - a record number for the commute so far this year and approaching a 10 year high!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 07 April, 2011, 10:24:53 pm
tuesday evening: fixie - short cut out of the office - 14.75 miles - 58min
wednesday evening: van nic - road route out of the office - 15.3 miles - 57min
thursday evening: van nic - short cut out of the office - 14.75 miles - 47 min  :o :thumbsup:  ;D

I was flying
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 08 April, 2011, 08:07:29 am
Lovely ride last night, really enjoyed that!  Full of nice, helpful drivers, they are the vast majority after all.

Oh, I did get slightly annoyed by the cyclists blocking the cycle path entrance at Hyde Park Corner on the middle island.  Why do they insist on sitting on the wrong side of the cycle path and prevent others from using it, instead of waiting behind the other cyclists?

Also saw a taxi blatantly run a red light, so will upload and roadsafe him shortly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 08 April, 2011, 08:22:00 am
Wow!  The A23 is not a cyclist-friendly place at 5:30 in the morning: cars and heavy goods vehicles flinging themselves down bus lanes and really not expecting to see somebody on a bicycle.  I was forced into the gutter by a couple of HGVs despite my taking a clear primary position.  Was glad to turn off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 08 April, 2011, 08:23:08 am
Quote from: hatler on 31 March, 2011, 10:19:54 am
Quote from: Wendy on 31 March, 2011, 09:50:22 am
The first being a great quote from Andy about the priority list of safety and convenience:

"My safety
Your safety
My convenience
Your convenience"

Driver at side junction - you're at the bottom of the list.  Now wait there like a good little boy.

Please sir, please sir, I use that too, but slightly modded.

My safety
Your safety
The law
The Highway Code
My convenience
Your convenience

Who's Andy ?

You don't need the bolded addition, they're encompassed by the first two in the list.  Andy is AndyGates.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 08 April, 2011, 09:47:13 am
Quote from: Wendy on 08 April, 2011, 08:23:08 am
Quote from: hatler on 31 March, 2011, 10:19:54 am

Please sir, please sir, I use that too, but slightly modded.

My safety
Your safety
The law
The Highway Code
My convenience
Your convenience

Who's Andy ?

You don't need the bolded addition, they're encompassed by the first two in the list.  Andy is AndyGates.

I'm with you there on the vast majority of circumstances. But, have you looked at the HC advice on going round a roundabout ?   Doesn't it advise that cyclists should keep on the outside all the way round ?

And there's another bit which sort of implies that speed limits apply to cycles.

In the first case I prefer to stay safe by pretending I am a car, which keeps both me and my hierarchy intact.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 April, 2011, 09:50:09 am
Butterfly's first day at her new job, so I rode in with her.  Wasn't clever enough to avoid both A3 and Vauxhall, though a bit of thought would have got me through the backstreets.

It's a bit odd using someone else's commute.  You feel like a novice again, not knowing where the lanes and lines are.  Hard to get into a riding groove.  But it was OK nonetheless.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 08 April, 2011, 09:57:17 am
Quote from: hatler on 08 April, 2011, 09:47:13 am
I'm with you there on the vast majority of circumstances. But, have you looked at the HC advice on going round a roundabout ?   Doesn't it advise that cyclists should keep on the outside all the way round ?

And there's another bit which sort of implies that speed limits apply to cycles.

In the first case I prefer to stay safe by pretending I am a car, which keeps both me and my hierarchy intact.

It's only advice, rather than MUST.  There's no implication that speed limits apply to cyclists, although my safety would certainly overrule exceeding the motor vehicle speed limit in most circumstances.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 08 April, 2011, 10:15:01 am
Quote from: Wendy on 08 April, 2011, 08:23:08 am
Quote from: hatler on 31 March, 2011, 10:19:54 am
Quote from: Wendy on 31 March, 2011, 09:50:22 am
The first being a great quote from Andy about the priority list of safety and convenience:

"My safety
Your safety
My convenience
Your convenience"

Driver at side junction - you're at the bottom of the list.  Now wait there like a good little boy.

Please sir, please sir, I use that too, but slightly modded.

My safety
Your safety
The law
The Highway Code
My convenience
Your convenience

Who's Andy ?

You don't need the bolded addition, they're encompassed by the first two in the list.

Personally I'd have them in there. Without them there's nothing to stop you choosing to do things like jumping red lights when no-one is waiting to cross (so there's no risk to others' safety).

Put it another way, I'd rather everyone rode/drove to hatler's set of 6 than andy's set of 4 (although this would still be a vast improvement on current road user behaviour).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 08 April, 2011, 10:30:52 am
Again, that's perfectly covered by my/your safety.  RLJing might not be very risky, but it is risky to the RLJer and others, including pedestrians, and most of all it exceeds the safety boundaries the law has set for us.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 08 April, 2011, 10:43:12 am
Quote from: Wendy on 08 April, 2011, 10:30:52 am
Again, that's perfectly covered by my/your safety.  RLJing might not be very risky, but it is risky to the RLJer and others, including pedestrians, and most of all it exceeds the safety boundaries the law has set for us.

You're not getting my point:-

Red light at a crossing, no-one anywhere near the crossing so the list for this particular scenario becomes:-

(For 'your' read 'others'.)

My safety
Your safety
My convenience
Your convenience

So there's nothing for this individual scenario to stop me doing it if I go by that list. My safety isn't compromised by choosing to RLJ that particular crossing if there's no-one about. That's why I don't like it without explicitly adding 'The Law' and 'The Highway Code' as it becomes:-

My safety
Your safety
The law
The Highway Code
My convenience
Your convenience

I'm happier with that because it gives me the reason why I should stop of at the red light, even if there's no-one around. 'The law' appears higher up the list than 'my convenience'.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 08 April, 2011, 11:02:16 am
Oh, sorry if I didn't make that clear enough, I got your point perfectly - see here:

Quote from: Wendy on 08 April, 2011, 10:30:52 am
most of all it exceeds the safety boundaries the law has set for us.

"Your" judgement of whether a RLJ was safe or not does not count for your example as it is outside the boundary of your safety as set by the law.  A different example might allow though - that of a following car not stopping in time for a red light you were stopping for, and you rolling out into the intersection to avoid being rear-ended.

p.s. by "your" I mean generally, not you specifically.  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: origamist on 08 April, 2011, 11:15:40 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 08 April, 2011, 08:22:00 am
Wow!  The A23 is not a cyclist-friendly place at 5:30 in the morning: cars and heavy goods vehicles flinging themselves down bus lanes and really not expecting to see somebody on a bicycle.  I was forced into the gutter by a couple of HGVs despite my taking a clear primary position.  Was glad to turn off.


I gave up on the A23 many years ago, even though I used to live in Streatham.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 08 April, 2011, 11:23:11 am
Highlight of this morning's ride, other than the glorious sunshine and relative lack of wind, was definitely the lapwings doing their crazy aerobatics in the fields by the Bishopthorpe road.

Spring's here, right enough.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 08 April, 2011, 11:34:51 am
Quote from: origamist on 08 April, 2011, 11:15:40 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 08 April, 2011, 08:22:00 am
Wow!  The A23 is not a cyclist-friendly place at 5:30 in the morning: cars and heavy goods vehicles flinging themselves down bus lanes and really not expecting to see somebody on a bicycle.  I was forced into the gutter by a couple of HGVs despite my taking a clear primary position.  Was glad to turn off.


I gave up on the A23 many years ago, even though I used to live in Streatham.

I was a bit shocked at the state of it at 5:30.  I've happily used it at 7am or 8am but it's obviously a different beast in the earlier hours.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 08 April, 2011, 12:39:05 pm
The day started badly when I decided to add a bit of pressure to the rear tyre and the valve broke off...never mind, a chance to switch to the proper bike.
So I had a ride in, on my best bike, in beautiful weather.  Not only that, one of the schools near my route in was clearly having an easter bonnet day, so I got to call out compliments to all of the fabulous hats I saw.

It made me realise how much interaction drivers miss when they're rushing about in their steel boxes. No feel for the changing weather, no chance to stop or slow down to appreciate the sights and sounds around them and often no opportunities to change route just because they felt like it on that day!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 08 April, 2011, 01:01:02 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 08 April, 2011, 11:02:16 am
Oh, sorry if I didn't make that clear enough, I got your point perfectly - see here:

Quote from: Wendy on 08 April, 2011, 10:30:52 am
most of all it exceeds the safety boundaries the law has set for us.

"Your" judgement of whether a RLJ was safe or not does not count for your example as it is outside the boundary of your safety as set by the law.  A different example might allow though - that of a following car not stopping in time for a red light you were stopping for, and you rolling out into the intersection to avoid being rear-ended.

OK, we're saying pretty much the same thing but I've chosen to separate out the law from generic safety as I don't think that 'safety' alone shows the right emphasis on being able to put my safety above the law (only when necessary).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 08 April, 2011, 01:06:44 pm
Going well this morning, on target for a PB. Waved to a friend and her small son, who was riding to school.  Small son called out as I slowed for traffic that the gear fettling we'd done the other week needed doing again. Oops.

And then my front tyre went down, courtesy of a sharp bit of flint. And then I remembered I hadn't put a spare tube in my bag as I'd left the house.  Fortunately there was an LBS just round the corner which was just opening  up, so I bought a tube (with excessively long valve) and repaired it outside the shop. Saw another friend and her small daughter, which brightened the morning no end.

Only 15 minutes late for work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 08 April, 2011, 01:29:03 pm
In the past three weeks I have changed from longs to knickers to shorts. I pity the people driving in cars it is wonderful out there.  In the morning T-shirt, vest, shorts and arms. In the afternoon no arms.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 08 April, 2011, 06:11:20 pm
I have just had the most grin inducing ride home ever.

Was it the sun? The gusty wind? The new flag - furiously flapping in the wind? The unstoppable legs? The wave from one of two pretty girls, and the laugh when I waved back? The lifting of a front wheel through a corner resulting in a rebel yell?

Don't know - but it was bloody fun!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 April, 2011, 07:50:44 pm
Quote from: clarion on 07 April, 2011, 08:47:58 pm
What on earth happened tonight? ???

Despite having stopped to answer the phone and missing a whole cycle of the lights at Tooting station, I realised on approaching the village that I was well ahead of my notional schedule.  Even with stoopid traffic on the High St, I got home with an average of 23kph, which is fast even for a morning ride*.

Of course, I reasoned.  The wind must have turned and been behind me.

Nope.  I just rode that fast.  Bizarre.




* Fast for me, OK.  Fast for me.

That.  Again.  Exactly. ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 08 April, 2011, 08:28:51 pm
I'll let myself off and not put this in the rant thread, but I am a muppet.
It was forecast to be another lovely day, so hey, let's commute on the fixie today.
One shirt, two socks and sandwich box fit into the Barley nicely.
Ah, but it's Friday.  Shoes and office trousers need to come home for decontamination and buffing.
One bloke's large brogue completely fills a Barley.  :(  Two is tricky. -  Plus bag of clothes and large tupperwear box - Wow, that took some designer packing!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cheysintow on 08 April, 2011, 10:31:06 pm
Quote from: Basil on 08 April, 2011, 08:28:51 pm
I'll let myself off and not put this in the rant thread, but I am a muppet.
It was forecast to be another lovely day, so hey, let's commute on the fixie today.
One shirt, two socks and sandwich box fit into the Barley nicely.
Ah, but it's Friday.  Shoes and office trousers need to come home for decontamination and buffing.
One bloke's large brogue completely fills a Barley.  :(  Two is tricky. -  Plus bag of clothes and large tupperwear box - Wow, that took some designer packing!

time for a camperlongflap perhaps. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Androcles on 08 April, 2011, 10:44:04 pm
Early alarm went off to give the option of cycling this morning, promptly went back to sleep to be woken by late alarm meaning it's going to be another day in the car.  Got up and kicked myself as it was already a lovely day.  Got into car only to find that it wasn't going to start so a quick decision was made that I would be riding to work after all.

So, what is it about the good weather that sucks the brains out of some drivers, or is it that going in later than usual and coming home late for a Friday (early for any other day) gave me the rare opportunity to sample not one but two school runs?  More SMIDSY and near-left-hook that I've seen in a while.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 08 April, 2011, 11:05:27 pm
Worked from home this morning owing to an early conf. call, but went in at lunchtime.

One Notable NumptyTM who was sitting in his car 2nd in the traffic light queue behind a motorbike (I'd pulled up just behind him) who decided to honk the motorcyclist for not setting off when the light changed.  What the motorcyclist and most of the other people in our queue (and the queue opposite) had realised but NNTM was oblivious to as a result of his stereo being up so loud was that there was an ambulance, with lights and sirens on coming through on the right of us.

Plonker.  He also went through on red once the ambulance was through and the motorbike had gone through (not quite on red).  I therefore found myself at the head of the traffic light queue in primary ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 09 April, 2011, 10:18:17 am
Quote from: clarion on 08 April, 2011, 07:50:44 pm
Quote from: clarion on 07 April, 2011, 08:47:58 pm
What on earth happened tonight? ???

Despite having stopped to answer the phone and missing a whole cycle of the lights at Tooting station, I realised on approaching the village that I was well ahead of my notional schedule.  Even with stoopid traffic on the High St, I got home with an average of 23kph, which is fast even for a morning ride*.

Of course, I reasoned.  The wind must have turned and been behind me.

Nope.  I just rode that fast.  Bizarre.




* Fast for me, OK.  Fast for me.

That.  Again.  Exactly. ???

Maybe the aliens have decided to stop abducting you everyday so now you aren't getting the time loss.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 09 April, 2011, 10:19:24 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 08 April, 2011, 11:34:51 am
Quote from: origamist on 08 April, 2011, 11:15:40 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 08 April, 2011, 08:22:00 am
Wow!  The A23 is not a cyclist-friendly place at 5:30 in the morning: cars and heavy goods vehicles flinging themselves down bus lanes and really not expecting to see somebody on a bicycle.  I was forced into the gutter by a couple of HGVs despite my taking a clear primary position.  Was glad to turn off.


I gave up on the A23 many years ago, even though I used to live in Streatham.

I was a bit shocked at the state of it at 5:30.  I've happily used it at 7am or 8am but it's obviously a different beast in the earlier hours.


Which bit are you talking about?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 11 April, 2011, 09:06:55 am
Interesting commute this morning.

Just past Canning Town roundabout I spotted a bike with a trailer - a very rare appearance in East London!  The surprise was double be recognising the the riding following the bike with the trailer - Titanium Dave.  On a cycle path :o

Then in Limehouse I saw another bike with a trailer, this time it was kiddie trailer.

Drivers were OK, weather was nice, managed to keep up a good speed.  Shame I had the end the ride at work.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 11 April, 2011, 09:09:22 am
Bluebells!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 April, 2011, 09:19:32 am
Loads of us!  It was great.  Saw a trailer too - at E&C.  It belonged to Al Desco food delivery.

It was noticeable that the vast majority of riders stopped at red lights (with one junction excepted, which has a very long cycle).  So busy I really needed to be careful about line and distance.

Pretty fast, too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 11 April, 2011, 09:29:22 am
Met a fine rider on a fixed yesterday, I'll try to upload some of his cycling, he was rather good and plenty fast.  No brakes though, and although it's wrong and illegal, he was very competent and I never had the slightest fear when he was riding behind me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 11 April, 2011, 10:30:46 am
Rode in early today - traffic seemed much lighter than usual, even for 6am, and best of all I covered almost 7 miles before encountering my first red light, which is pretty good going for London!

Not very interesting, I know, but i just feel so good :-)

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 11 April, 2011, 01:45:44 pm
Jurek.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 11 April, 2011, 01:56:27 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 11 April, 2011, 01:45:44 pm
Jurek.

 :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 11 April, 2011, 01:56:39 pm
10% slower than normal today...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 11 April, 2011, 01:56:55 pm
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 11 April, 2011, 01:56:27 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 11 April, 2011, 01:45:44 pm
Jurek.

 :)

I almost posted that. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 11 April, 2011, 03:00:12 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 11 April, 2011, 01:45:44 pm
Jurek.

Blimey. Putting two and two together, that looks like grounds for celebration.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 11 April, 2011, 03:08:30 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 11 April, 2011, 01:45:44 pm
Jurek.

Huzzah!  :thumbsup:
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 April, 2011, 03:11:39 pm
I feel dim.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 11 April, 2011, 03:37:46 pm
Jurek is commuting, considering the number of weekday rides he has been reporting making me jelous of this means he now has some work to commute to.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 11 April, 2011, 03:48:11 pm
Yay for Jurek!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 April, 2011, 04:04:27 pm
:facepalm: d'Oh!

Grand news, though, Mr Jurek, sir :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: welshwheels on 11 April, 2011, 07:09:35 pm
nice  commute today no incidents strong head wind though :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 11 April, 2011, 07:12:03 pm
Fabulous ride home, until I unshipped the fixie chain at 30mph (150rpm) in the last 1/2 mile from home.

fortunately it went out board at each end, so no jamming of the rear wheel and I heard it go and braked to a controlled stop.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 11 April, 2011, 07:33:15 pm
Thanks peeps, for the kind remarks.

I am indeed, once again a wage slave, and not before time...

One thing - commuting by train can f*kc right off!
The sooner I pull the plug on that little jaunt (three trains, and three TOC's, taking at least 1.5 hrs. Or alternatively a 41 minute cycle ride - go figure) the better.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 11 April, 2011, 09:19:19 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 11 April, 2011, 07:33:15 pm
Thanks peeps, for the kind remarks.

I am indeed, once again a wage slave, and not before time...

One thing - commuting by train can f*kc right off!
The sooner I pull the plug on that little jaunt (three trains, and three TOC's, taking at least 1.5 hrs. Or alternatively a 41 minute cycle ride - go figure) the better.

Excellent news and, as you say, not before time. As for the three trains malarkey, stuff that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 April, 2011, 09:26:43 pm
Three trains?  Life is too short.

As for me, instead of my pretty flat normal commute, I took advantage of the gears I had on board to ride over Le Col de St Reatham and along to the Purley Way.  There was a silly wind from every direction, but not always a headwind, so i got to climb fairly fast on a couple of sections.  Fun, despite the insane traffic jams.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 11 April, 2011, 09:38:10 pm
Good news, Jurek  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 11 April, 2011, 09:49:18 pm
Quote from: little miss mac on 11 April, 2011, 09:38:10 pm
Good news, Jurek  :)

Thanks A (and others) it has not fully sunk in yet...

Somewhere underneath it all = Happy bunny  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 11 April, 2011, 10:06:14 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 11 April, 2011, 09:49:18 pm
Quote from: little miss mac on 11 April, 2011, 09:38:10 pm
Good news, Jurek  :)

Thanks A (and others) it has not fully sunk in yet...

Somewhere underneath it all = Happy bunny  :)

Excellent news  :thumbsup:
I hope all is going well with the new job!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 11 April, 2011, 10:12:16 pm
Quote from: Feline on 11 April, 2011, 10:06:14 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 11 April, 2011, 09:49:18 pm
Quote from: little miss mac on 11 April, 2011, 09:38:10 pm
Good news, Jurek  :)

Thanks A (and others) it has not fully sunk in yet...

Somewhere underneath it all = Happy bunny  :)

Excellent news  :thumbsup:
I hope all is going well with the new job!

Thanks Lara - Lots  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smurphboy on 11 April, 2011, 10:40:17 pm
Been mixing up the commute recently due to better weather, more knowledge of decent local routes and a moton related incident (idiot brakes in a chokepoint at the bottom of a hill to let someone turn right, across me... Disc brakes, gloves and a helmet save the day - leaving me with minor roadrash and a date with the nice girl who walked me home  :) as I looked a bit shaky)

Lesson for the week is that falling off your bike is not the best way to meet girls - but hey, you take what you can get sometimes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 11 April, 2011, 10:49:55 pm
Quote from: smurphboy on 11 April, 2011, 10:40:17 pm
Been mixing up the commute recently due to better weather, more knowledge of decent local routes and a moton related incident (idiot brakes in a chokepoint at the bottom of a hill to let someone turn right, across me... Disc brakes, gloves and a helmet save the day - leaving me with minor roadrash and a date with the nice girl who walked me home  :) as I looked a bit shaky)

Lesson for the week is that falling off your bike is not the best way to meet girls - but hey, you take what you can get sometimes.

Nurses?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smurphboy on 11 April, 2011, 10:54:30 pm
Quote from: Adrian on 11 April, 2011, 10:49:55 pm
Nurses?

She said she used to be a paramedic - I didn't ask for proof - I was picking gravel out of my elbow at the time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 12 April, 2011, 08:06:08 am
Had the pleasure of waiting behind a London bus in the traffic this morning  ???
Because it was one of the new hydrogen buses, Every now and again it would have a little widdle....and it sounded a bit like a a Tie fighter out of star wars when it pulls away  :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 12 April, 2011, 08:15:15 am
Quote from: Andyf on 12 April, 2011, 08:06:08 am
Had the pleasure of waiting behind a London bus in the traffic this morning  ???
Because it was one of the new hydrogen buses, Every now and again it would have a little widdle....and it sounded a bit like a a Tie fighter out of star wars when it pulls away  :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

Ooooh, lucky you!  I wanna see one now.   :thumbsup:  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 12 April, 2011, 08:47:11 am
Quote from: smurphboy on 11 April, 2011, 10:54:30 pm
Quote from: Adrian on 11 April, 2011, 10:49:55 pm
Nurses?

She said she used to be a paramedic - I didn't ask for proof - I was picking gravel out of my elbow at the time.

Mistake, surely this was the chance to test that, let her take the gravel out of your elbow and then you offer either drinks or a meal to return the favour.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 12 April, 2011, 09:00:05 am
See GCC? I've gone right off them. They rebuilt the Lechlade to Quenington road and it was lovely. Not a pothole in sight.  Yesterday (well last night as it happens, it was still OK at 1800) they top-dressed it.  Arrggghhhhh!!  It was like cycling on ice.  Had to abandon the back road and use the 417.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 April, 2011, 09:45:39 am
Nice ride in this morning.  Unexpected headwind, which felt both stronger and less crosswindy than the Met Office allege :-\

But, despite a slow first half, I got moving OK after Tooting.  Lots of cyclists about today, the vast majority riding very well.  Many fewer RLJs than I would have expected.  I hope this continues.

Oh - and, unusually, I got a thank you from a motorcyclist.  Coming down through Clapham in the shared bus lane, I looked behind before overtaking a pair of roadies, and spotted a motorbike a short way back.  I could have pulled out anyway, but I let him through.  I do this often enough, but I'm very rarely thanked for it.

Opposite - last night, I took a back way (well, a signed cycling route) home.  At one point, there was an oncoming bus which stopped in between parked cars to let a passenger off.  I waited in a gap between cars while this happened.  As the bus drew alongside, the driver looked at me like I was a lump of catshit in his dinner.  Eh?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 12 April, 2011, 09:52:35 am
This morning was a bit more 'brisk' than yesterday.  As for the headwind...  :hand:  Yesterday I was cruising in the high 20s, today I had to work hard for mid 20s.

If the wind keeps up I'll hardly need to pedal on the way home.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 April, 2011, 09:59:49 am
Yes, I was back in long sleeves this morning, though my hairy legs were still on display.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 12 April, 2011, 11:07:54 am
witnessed a very unpleasant bit of cyclist aggression towards a pedestrian at London Bridge.  Cyclists was turning left off the bridge into Tooley Street and let of a stream of foul language at a ped who was crossing the road (against the lights, admittedly).  It would have been very easy simply to ride around him.  Not impressive.  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 12 April, 2011, 11:10:06 am
Lots of people in the park on bikes this morning.  Sunny day I guess.....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 12 April, 2011, 11:51:39 am
Secure bike park nearly full today - that must be getting on for 80 bikes I would guess. And still only Spring.

I'm not sure there's going to be enough room in there by the time the Summer comes.

I'd better start lobyying !
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 12 April, 2011, 12:44:42 pm
Front mech cable outer split, leaving me stuck in the middle ring as the cable outer compressed. Never seen that before. Fortunately, I wasn't far from my LBS, so dropped it off and took their loan bike. Whilst I was in there, they mentioned that they've become an Enigma dealer, will soon have an Etape in for demo, and would be happy to Cyclescheme me a frame and swap the bits over. I told them that it was evil of them to put such thoughts in a mans head when he has a full day of work ahead of him. What utter gits.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 12 April, 2011, 09:21:05 pm
Since the weather is better and it is lighter, I have noticed.........city boys on Boris bikes thinking there Mr Cavendish going down the Champs-Elysees   ??? and the f**kwittery of single speed(straight handle bar) riders (cyclists they are not) with no respect for anyone else car,taxi,bus,pedestrian or real cyclists...... oh and red lights.......morons >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 12 April, 2011, 09:29:31 pm
Commuting in again, even though the Kaffenback is still up on bricks, pending sorting out the rear wheel bearings.

I gritted my teeth, and decided to use Red for the commute, so brought a load of clothes in yesterday using the Tube and Tram, and two spare locks.

I can't bring any significant lunch in, so I'll be living entirely off whatever I can buy in our common rooms, and I've got three locks (New York Fahgettaboudit Chain, Street Cuffs, and Evolution Mini) on the bike, and have peered out at it from the secretaries office a few times, to check it's still there!

On the plus side, it's much easier to cycle in on carbon that the somewhat heavier steel of the Kaffenback, and that was against a light headwind on the way in this morning!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 12 April, 2011, 10:12:38 pm
Quote from: TimO on 12 April, 2011, 09:29:31 pm

I can't bring any significant lunch in, so I'll be living entirely off whatever I can buy in our common rooms,

You mean that you've not found the excellent Sandwich Shop on Gloucester Road?  Home of the most filling and cheapest sandwiches in this part of London?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RJ on 12 April, 2011, 10:16:59 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 12 April, 2011, 11:07:54 am
witnessed a very unpleasant bit of cyclist aggression towards a pedestrian at London Bridge.  Cyclists was turning left off the bridge into Tooley Street and let of a stream of foul language at a ped who was crossing the road (against the lights, admittedly).  It would have been very easy simply to ride around him.  Not impressive.  :facepalm:

Reminds me of the worst bit of riding I saw on Friday evening's commute.  A nice sunny evening, so I thought I'd take the Union Canal towpath - to find it a bit of a racetrack.  

<rant>

It is not good to ride like this on a narrow, shared-use path.  And it's certainly not good to use squealing brakes as a last-minute stealth audible warning to two conversing pedestrians heading in the same direction, then to bisect them while barely dropping speed from full-on honking, let alone to turn round and give them abuse when one of them has the temerity to express shock.  >:(

Pick on someone your own size next time - and I hope they push you in, bike and all.   :demon:

</rant>

Me - I'll be back on my normal route, which is a lot more relaxing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 13 April, 2011, 01:53:59 am
Rode in to work for my night shift tonight, a nice 21 miles with only one incidence of fuckwitted driver beeping as he drove past. I really need to start commuting on my Fuji again since it has the rack. The Barley on my Sabbath was packed to the seams with work shoes, trousers, uniform, stethoscope, scissors, thermometer, watch, deodorant, hairbrush,toothbrush and enough food to eat for dinner and breakfast!
Cheddar gorge was nice in the sun and the little lambs of the wild sheep things with horns are getting frisky and big now :)
Looking at the forecast I might well get drowned riding home in the morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 April, 2011, 09:38:10 am
I'm astonished you managed to cram all that in a Barley (even given that your clothes and shoes are rather smaller than mine).  What you need is a Camper Longflap, so you can still ride your Sabbath and carry all your kit ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 13 April, 2011, 09:50:14 am
Quote from: clarion on 13 April, 2011, 09:38:10 am
I'm astonished you managed to cram all that in a Barley (even given that your clothes and shoes are rather smaller than mine).  What you need is a Camper Longflap, so you can still ride your Sabbath and carry all your kit ;)
And the shopping for the week ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 13 April, 2011, 04:49:09 pm
Quote from: Butterfly on 13 April, 2011, 09:50:14 am
Quote from: clarion on 13 April, 2011, 09:38:10 am
I'm astonished you managed to cram all that in a Barley (even given that your clothes and shoes are rather smaller than mine).  What you need is a Camper Longflap, so you can still ride your Sabbath and carry all your kit ;)
And the shopping for the week ;D

Yep, I am definitely considering adding another Carradice bag to my stable  ;D
Would a camper longflap fit a tiny tent, mat and sleeping bag in it?
My support is the smaller QR Bagman, I suppose I would need the larger one to hold a bigger bag would I?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 April, 2011, 04:50:42 pm
Yes, you would want the bigger one. 

People do camp with a Camper Longflap.  It's a shade minimalist for me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 13 April, 2011, 04:58:33 pm
I wonder if my carbon seatpost would complain about me loading my entire camping kit on it?  ;D

I am planning on investing in a microscopic camping set up weighing about 3kg. Any heavier then I would be even slower and I am already as slow as a slow thing!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 13 April, 2011, 05:18:10 pm
Bah.  There's now a squeak/creak coming from the frame of my trusty yellow commuter fixie, whenever I pedal with force, that makes me think there may be a crack developing somewhere under the paint.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tatanab on 13 April, 2011, 05:26:22 pm
Quote from: Feline on 13 April, 2011, 04:49:09 pm
Would a camper longflap fit a tiny tent, mat and sleeping bag in it?

Last year I had one particular weekend away using just a camper's longflap.  The tent (Hilleberg Unna) lived on the top using rings that used to be used for  a cape roll in the days when ----.  Inside I had my sleeping bag (RAB Quatum 400) and sleeping mat (Thermarest Prolite 4), along with a change of clothes and basic washing kit.  I did not even need to extend the longflap.

Quote
My support is the smaller QR Bagman, I suppose I would need the larger one to hold a bigger bag would I?
Not necessarily.  The Expedition is deeper, but if the bag fits well enough for you then the standard should work.   Not that I use either.  On this particular occasion I used an old Karrimor/Tonnard uplift.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 13 April, 2011, 05:57:32 pm
Quote from: tatanab on 13 April, 2011, 05:26:22 pm
Quote from: Feline on 13 April, 2011, 04:49:09 pm
Would a camper longflap fit a tiny tent, mat and sleeping bag in it?

Last year I had one particular weekend away using just a camper's longflap.  The tent (Hilleberg Unna) lived on the top using rings that used to be used for  a cape roll in the days when ----.  Inside I had my sleeping bag (RAB Quatum 400) and sleeping mat (Thermarest Prolite 4), along with a change of clothes and basic washing kit.  I did not even need to extend the longflap.

Quote
My support is the smaller QR Bagman, I suppose I would need the larger one to hold a bigger bag would I?
Not necessarily.  The Expedition is deeper, but if the bag fits well enough for you then the standard should work.   Not that I use either.  On this particular occasion I used an old Karrimor/Tonnard uplift.

Ah thanks  :thumbsup:
I think I would prefer this option than sticking a rack on my Sabbath!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Simonb on 13 April, 2011, 06:06:52 pm
Not today's commute, but saw some interesting new graffiti just into Thanet on yesterday's:

(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/1127109/IMG_20110412_202056.jpg)

Quite.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: geoff on 13 April, 2011, 09:02:10 pm
not well enough to ride to work today, I just cycled to the bus - stop where I admired the gent heading towards Oxford through Nuneham Courtney on a Ti*fixed bike, complete with tri-bars twiddling away at 25+mph! Was it another yacfer?

*probably ... really he was going too fast for a proper look
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 April, 2011, 09:05:08 pm
Nice ride home.  Heaps of numpties (almost exclusively of the sardine-style variety), especially in Clapham and Tooting, but a nice ride nonetheless.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 14 April, 2011, 09:55:49 am
Two sightings yesterday of cyclists needing assistance.

a.m.: Stockwell.  Chap wheeling a bike upended on its rear wheel.  Front wheel carried in left hand, still attached to half of the forklegs! :o  I was amazed that he was walking, and had a face that appeared to be intact.  I didn't stop, as a quick assessment led me to the conclusion that, despite the number of toestraps and zipties I had on board, I could do little for the unfortunate gentleman.

p.m.: Newington Butts.  Man with hybrid upside down beside the road.  I assumed puncture, and stopped.  In fact, his chain was off, and he was struggling to replace it.  He was struggling because his hand was shaking, and I wondered if he was ill.  Then he spoke,

'Did you see what happened?'

'No, I just spotted you here, and thought I'd help'

'Thanks.  I got knocked off.  He knocked me off - just there' *points*

'Did you get any details?'

'No.  He drove off.  As soon as I said I was OK, he just drove off.  He shouldn't have.'

'Are you OK?'

'Yeah, yeah.  The bike took the worst of it.  But I don't think it's actually damaged.  I didn't get his number or nothing.'

I looked around for CCTV.  Even if there had been, the chances of anything getting done would be minimal.  I couldn't see one that would have had a good view, enough to get a number.

By this time, I'd helped him get the chain on, and he was getting back on his bike.

'I'm just off home now.'

'OK.  Take it easy.  The shock can hit you a bit delayed, you know.'

'Yeah.  It's not far.  I'll be OK.'

'Take it easy then.'

'Thanks.'

Perhaps I should have helped get him home, but, with nothing else practical I felt I could do, I mounted up and rode on.

I hope he was OK.  And I hope the driver had a sleepelss night.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 14 April, 2011, 10:00:24 am
Quote from: clarion on 14 April, 2011, 09:55:49 am
... And I hope the driver had a sleepelss night.

I doubt it...  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 14 April, 2011, 02:04:32 pm
Quote from: Feline on 13 April, 2011, 04:49:09 pm
Quote from: Butterfly on 13 April, 2011, 09:50:14 am
Quote from: clarion on 13 April, 2011, 09:38:10 am
I'm astonished you managed to cram all that in a Barley (even given that your clothes and shoes are rather smaller than mine).  What you need is a Camper Longflap, so you can still ride your Sabbath and carry all your kit ;)
And the shopping for the week ;D

Yep, I am definitely considering adding another Carradice bag to my stable  ;D
Would a camper longflap fit a tiny tent, mat and sleeping bag in it?
My support is the smaller QR Bagman, I suppose I would need the larger one to hold a bigger bag would I?

The Camper longflap and the Nelson are the same basic bag as far as I know, I did a test to see how much crap my Nelson would carry, results are here: Caradice Barley and Carradice Nelson saddlebags compared (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=22961.0)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 14 April, 2011, 02:25:03 pm
Camper is noticeably bigger than a Nelson.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 14 April, 2011, 04:40:09 pm
Quote from: LittleWheelsandBig on 14 April, 2011, 02:25:03 pm
Camper is noticeably bigger than a Nelson.

Woops, yes you're right 24 litres for the Camper, 15 litres for the Nelson.
The Nelson seems massive compared to the Barley.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 14 April, 2011, 05:05:18 pm
Quote from: alexb on 12 April, 2011, 10:12:38 pm
Quote from: TimO on 12 April, 2011, 09:29:31 pm
I can't bring any significant lunch in, so I'll be living entirely off whatever I can buy in our common rooms,
You mean that you've not found the excellent Sandwich Shop on Gloucester Road?  Home of the most filling and cheapest sandwiches in this part of London?

I've used it in the past, but (i) it would be a good ten minutes to walk there and back, plus (ii) it always seems to have a huge queue in there which would make it take even longer and (iii) frankly, I find it a bit intimidating, since the moment you manage to stick your head around the door, they want to know what you want in your sandwich, and I generally haven't got a clue, since you cant see anything because of the vast number of people in the queue blocking any view of what's available!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 14 April, 2011, 09:56:29 pm
On the way home, I spotted a Mondeo driver who was not paying as much attention as I might have hoped.  Not unusual, and I suspected he might be on the telephone.

Not so!

He had a fork in his right hand, and his dinner on a plate in his lap.  He was eating while driving, and at one point was right behind me as we went through the Oval junction >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 15 April, 2011, 10:11:40 am
Nice fast commute in, today.  There's something about herds of ungainly RLJers making prats of themselves at the most difficult junctions on my route that really spurs me on.

The squeak on my bike isn't a crack in the frame, but something attached is flexing and I can't quite track it down.  Going to have to take some time to strip it down.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 15 April, 2011, 11:51:58 am
I nearly t-boned a cyclist last night. Coming up to a red light, stationary queue of cars, nice wide empty cycle lane to an advance box. Young woman in lycra on mtb riding on pavement ahead of me (which also has marked cycle lane).
As I came into the cycle lane, she suddenly swerved and jumped off the pavement, crossing the advance box. Didn't look behind her. Only avoided her because I was already slowing and covering the brakes. She didn't notice my existence until I called out "Look before you do that again."

She was wearing full hi-viz, helmet. But pulled across 2 lanes of traffic + a bike lane without so much as a glance over her shoulder <facepalm>
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 15 April, 2011, 11:54:45 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 15 April, 2011, 10:11:40 am
The squeak on my bike isn't a crack in the frame, but something attached is flexing and I can't quite track it down....
When you've have tracked it down you can tell me what the hell the intermittent click on my cranky old grid is.  It appeared about 1500 miles ago and it hasn't gone away despite a new BB, chain rings and chain.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 15 April, 2011, 02:24:33 pm
It's your shoes
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 15 April, 2011, 02:30:49 pm
Nah its his knees.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 15 April, 2011, 02:33:51 pm
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 15 April, 2011, 02:30:49 pm
Nah its his knees.
Git. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 18 April, 2011, 09:00:46 am
Fastest commute in for some time.  Tried an alternate route to and through Ladbroke Grove and the flow is much better.

Dilemma: if I wear a cap, it finishes the journey wet with sweat.  If I don't, my balding head will burn in the sun.

/me doesn't wear a helmet
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 18 April, 2011, 09:05:32 am
Wear a cotton cap, rinse it in the sink at work whilst changing, hang it on your monitor (*) or other convenient place to dry so it's ready for the home run. That's what I do.


* I miss CRT monitors. Nice, big and warm. Ideal for cubicle clothes drying - as long as things aren't drippy wet, obviously!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 18 April, 2011, 09:34:33 am
Two caps?
Wear one in, wear the dry one home, leaving the cap worn to get to the office to dry overnight.
and repeat...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 April, 2011, 09:36:37 am
I had a nice ride in this morning.  the first half was with Butterfly.  There was a short interlude where I fettled to ensure that I didn't need to do the whole ride in my top gear.  Then a swift second half.

Wish I could sort my gears :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 18 April, 2011, 09:57:08 am
Quote from: clarion on 18 April, 2011, 09:36:37 am
I had a nice ride in this morning.  the first half was with Butterfly.  There was a short interlude where I fettled to ensure that I didn't need to do the whole ride in my top gear.  Then a swift second half.

Wish I could sort my gears :(

You know there is an answer to that...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 April, 2011, 10:00:42 am
I know.  But I like my SEEKRIT WEPPUN, even if it is mildly non-functional.  The joy of riding a big fixed gear swiftly and knowing you don't have to heave away from the lights, or up a hill, or into the wind, is tremendous. 

Catches out a lot of people on the commute, too ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 18 April, 2011, 10:22:19 am
Fast ride in this morning for me as well. Cool to start with but a jacket would have been a mistake.

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 18 April, 2011, 10:26:28 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 18 April, 2011, 09:00:46 am
Dilemma: if I wear a cap, it finishes the journey wet with sweat.  If I don't, my balding head will burn in the sun.

What's the problem with a wet cap? Mine dries during the day left in the locker room. If I go out for a lunchtime ride then it hasn't completely dried but that's hardly a problem given that it'd be wet with sweat again shortly after starting. It's only a short period of mild discomfort.

The short period of mild discomfort of a damp cap is preferable to the much prolonged, painful and not-a-good-idea of sunburn.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 18 April, 2011, 10:32:19 am
If it's warm enough to sweat that much, then rinsing the cap will get it clean, and will provide pleasant cooling on your ride home/at lunchtime.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 18 April, 2011, 10:50:16 am
I saw this convoy yesterday:


    YouTube
        - Escorted Convoy
   (http://youtu.be/sCsNtjp58dI)

Wonder what it was?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Alouicious on 18 April, 2011, 11:25:49 am
Quote from: Wendy on 18 April, 2011, 10:50:16 am
I saw this convoy yesterday:


    YouTube
        - Escorted Convoy
   (http://youtu.be/sCsNtjp58dI)

Wonder what it was?

Tables, chairs, linen and silverware for a wedding reception.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 18 April, 2011, 11:46:11 am
Took the hill through Angersligh on the way in.

If you did the Avalon Sunrise 400 this the last hill you come up.  But I was going down.  I don't usually go this way as in the winter the other roads are better.  However, when it's dry and clear like today it's quite fun.  Now my fast summer commuter bike has better brakes on it I am slightly more confident descending this hill.  I got nearly all the way down without using the brakes. It's a kind of "you can't wear glasses if you don't have ears" sort of fact that with better brakes you need to use them less

But don't fret for my safety, the speedo only showed a top score of 60 kph
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 18 April, 2011, 11:53:17 am
Quote from: Wendy on 18 April, 2011, 10:50:16 am
I saw this convoy yesterday:


    YouTube
        - Escorted Convoy
   (http://youtu.be/sCsNtjp58dI)

Wonder what it was?

Money/valuables or something dangerous - nucs/bio materials. The silver people carriers were prob. carrying armed officers ie Assault rifles so you've gotta figure they are there to deter interested parties not protecting the delivery of toiulet rools to the Met
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 18 April, 2011, 12:55:18 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 18 April, 2011, 10:50:16 am
I saw this convoy yesterday:


    YouTube
        - Escorted Convoy
   (http://youtu.be/sCsNtjp58dI)

Wonder what it was?

Those trucks were on Blackheath ahead of the London Marathon start so they will have been piled high with drop bags for the runners to collect their stuff at the finish.  It's a logistically impressive operation.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: urban_biker on 18 April, 2011, 01:14:50 pm
Quote from: MattH on 18 April, 2011, 09:05:32 am

* I miss CRT monitors. Nice, big and warm. Ideal for cubicle clothes drying - as long as things aren't drippy wet, obviously!

The exact reason I still have mine in the office. I'm hoping that by the time I'm made to replace it I should get a very big LCD screen. No-one has told me it has to go yet though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sigod on 18 April, 2011, 03:12:21 pm
A bright, clear day with practically nobody on the road thanks to the Easter break kicking in early. I'm not sure I even saw another rider until I was 20 mins into my journey.

Saw a photo lying by the side of the road at the junction of Queenstown Road and the A3036 of what looked like a man in his underpants, feeding a monkey. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 18 April, 2011, 05:21:45 pm
Quote from: urban_biker on 18 April, 2011, 01:14:50 pm
Quote from: MattH on 18 April, 2011, 09:05:32 am

* I miss CRT monitors. Nice, big and warm. Ideal for cubicle clothes drying - as long as things aren't drippy wet, obviously!

The exact reason I still have mine in the office. I'm hoping that by the time I'm made to replace it I should get a very big LCD screen. No-one has told me it has to go yet though.

The quad-core monster of a machine under my desk chucks out far more heat than my old CRT monitor ever did. The LCD monitors are a lot more friendly on my eyes too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 18 April, 2011, 05:28:13 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 18 April, 2011, 05:21:45 pm
The quad-core monster of a machine under my desk chucks out far more heat than my old CRT monitor ever did. The LCD monitors are a lot more friendly on my eyes too.

1kW power supply FTW!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 18 April, 2011, 05:31:16 pm
Unfortunately I'm no longer a hard core coder, so don't run big iron under the desk. It must be 7 or 8 years since I had anything other than a laptop provided by the company, and nowadays I go for the small & light one (that's good enough to hook up to a projector for Powerpoint) rather than a big luggable mobile workstation style machine  :( High resolution displays are now so I can see more columns in Excel rather than running multiple code & debug windows  :'(

At least the smaller laptops fit in my pannier better!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 18 April, 2011, 06:01:16 pm
Quote from: sigod on 18 April, 2011, 03:12:21 pm
..... what looked like a man in his underpants, feeding a monkey. 

please tell me this isn't a euphamism
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 19 April, 2011, 01:14:21 am
Quote from: MattH on 18 April, 2011, 05:31:16 pm
Unfortunately I'm no longer a hard core coder, so don't run big iron under the desk. It must be 7 or 8 years since I had anything other than a laptop provided by the company, and nowadays I go for the small & light one (that's good enough to hook up to a projector for Powerpoint) rather than a big luggable mobile workstation style machine  :( High resolution displays are now so I can see more columns in Excel rather than running multiple code & debug windows  :'(

At least the smaller laptops fit in my pannier better!

We have laptops on our desks, and use NX/VNC to access X servers where we write the code, and run our code on a compute farm.  This is probably more cost-effective than each of us having quad-core monsters.  I think the servers have some silly number of cores.

My laptop is actually a quad-core machine, but only 1.6GHz.  Quite a bit slower than my MBP (2.2GHz quad-core i7).  What’s a bit silly is the laptop display is higher resolution than the LCD monitor (which is now 5 years old).  So I use the laptop display by preference, with some tiny font in xemacs, which I can just read (I have 20/16 or is it 16/20 vision).  Many of my colleagues can’t read it. :)

Given the kind of code I write (I program assembly language on a dual instruction VLIW DSP) I need lots of width if I want to have sensible variable names etc.  I find 1600x1200 a bit narrow. :)


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 April, 2011, 09:26:29 am
Is this about commuting or computer-techery? ;D

I had a lovely ride today.  Lots of cyclists about.  Marvellous.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tigerrr on 19 April, 2011, 09:49:53 am
There was a chap coming round Marble Arch on a full TT special with disc rear wheel and aero bars,in all the kit. You don't often see that sort of setup on the commute. Like a cheetah among wildebeests. His manner suggested he saw it that way too - all race face and 'serious cyclist here'.
He set off down Constitution Hill, wheel a-whirring and head down with hands a-gripping in his tuck, having cut in front of me at the lights because I am pond life and clearly baulking him from what will be an olympian display of speed that will leave all open mouthed in awe.
BUT he had hairy legs I spotted from behind as I viewed his lycra clad derriere with disdain, as he adopted a jaunty stance while waiting for the lights. That means he is not really committed - maybe he is ATGANI.  Worth a go anyway - maybe he is not all he looks. On closer inspection his calves and quads look a bit city desk boy - I don't think he had the hard miles in them. And he can't trackstand - hmmmm.
So I cranked it up and sped past him down to the palace, with flag and panniers and fat tyres.  A little moment of joy.
He did catch me on the Mall as I slowed for the lights. He was hammering it by then in a red mist - heaving each way on a huge gear.  He actually glanced round and double took when he saw I was sitting on his wheel - clearly shocked to be unable to lose the old nutter he left for dust.  
Ah the joy of the race.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 April, 2011, 09:52:29 am
*titters*

I suffered a bit from lads who thought they were in a race this morning, barging through groups of cyclists.  Idiots.  Never mind, most of them were behind me by the time I reached Newington.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sigod on 19 April, 2011, 11:10:12 am
I sometimes get miffed when I see fairweather commuter cyclists zip past in all the gear on an expensive bike, recently pulled from the back of the garden shed where it had been stored all winter. If I'm being honest however, it's one more cyclist and one less car and that can't be a bad thing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 19 April, 2011, 12:28:12 pm
I am hating the last part of my commute this week.  I get within a few hundred metres of work and think if I turn right here I can ride into the Llynfi valley and climb out of Maesteg into the Afan valley and up the Bwlch and down the Rhondda to home a lovely way to spend the morning.  But I expect my boss would not like it and continue straight on into Bridgend industrial estate as usual.  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 19 April, 2011, 12:44:55 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 18 April, 2011, 06:01:16 pm
Quote from: sigod on 18 April, 2011, 03:12:21 pm
..... what looked like a man in his underpants, feeding a monkey. 

please tell me this isn't a euphamism

Take your pick: Urban Dictionary: feed the monkey (http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=feed%20the%20monkey)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sigod on 19 April, 2011, 04:09:39 pm
It really was a pic of a bloke feeding a monkey thankfully.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 19 April, 2011, 09:38:49 pm
Never seen so much RLJ'ing on tonights ride home  :demon: .........................
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 19 April, 2011, 09:47:24 pm
Felt quick.  Tried to see what speed I could accelerate to off the Wall of Death roundabout; 42.5kph roughly.  Stopped to let a woman in an electric wheelchair cross the road.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 April, 2011, 09:48:43 pm
I was quite quick.  But I would have been an awful lot quicker if I hadn't had to stop for so many damn red lights :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 19 April, 2011, 09:51:51 pm
Quote from: clarion on 19 April, 2011, 09:48:43 pm
I was quite quick.  But I would have been an awful lot quicker if I hadn't had to stop for so many damn red lights :(

I sometimes use them as strength training - since I’m on fixed.  What I hate is Puffin crossings.  The amount of dwell time on red after the pedestrians have gone (if there even were any in the first place) is silly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 19 April, 2011, 10:00:09 pm
came home via my sisters business. ended up having to give my mother my copy of the highway code after her overtake on Nine Mile Ride, double white lines uphill into a blind bend. I was still going at ~15mph!!

 And I now need to report the surface of the roundabout between the A322 and Nine Mile Ride. The desire to bunny hop over the rut was incompatible with 20mph fixed (100rpm) and banking left into the roundabout. I am afraid my lane discipline suffered as I had to straighten up, only that then lined me up for the next pothole  :facepalm:

Otherwise a grand evening for a greenbelt commute
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 19 April, 2011, 10:39:57 pm
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 19 April, 2011, 12:28:12 pm
I am hating the last part of my commute this week.  I get within a few hundred metres of work and think if I turn right here I can ride into the Llynfi valley and climb out of Maesteg into the Afan valley and up the Bwlch and down the Rhondda to home a lovely way to spend the morning.  But I expect my boss would not like it and continue straight on into Bridgend industrial estate as usual.  :(

Get up a bit earlier and do a loop before work. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 19 April, 2011, 11:23:00 pm
Commuted in regular clothes today.  OK, jeans, padded undershorts and a t-shirt.  Sweaty.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 April, 2011, 09:34:14 am
Quote from: simonp on 19 April, 2011, 09:51:51 pm
Quote from: clarion on 19 April, 2011, 09:48:43 pm
I was quite quick.  But I would have been an awful lot quicker if I hadn't had to stop for so many damn red lights :(

I sometimes use them as strength training - since I’m on fixed.  What I hate is Puffin crossings.  The amount of dwell time on red after the pedestrians have gone (if there even were any in the first place) is silly.


I admit that it is fun getting smartly away and spinning up to 30kph, when I engage the overdrive.  The road boys might pass me as I top out around 35kph, but regular stops keep me from fading, I suppose.

This morning was a brilliant ride - first half with Butterfly, which was quite swift, then a blast in the sunshine up the A3.  Kept catching RLJers, too, which is very satisfying.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 20 April, 2011, 09:36:05 am
Nice to meet a friendly van driver at a junction this morning; having been honked at for slowing to allow me to filter in front, he wound down to explain to me that this was why he wasn't moving yet, rather than just drive on or yell abuse the car behind.

Complete dickhead on a boris bike at a mini roundabout in Cornwall Gardens.  Car approaching from the North, you from the West, me from the South, all at the same time.  Since I was approaching from your right, I had right of way and you're supposed to stop.  What you shouldn' do is carry on and nearly t-bone me, while bleating "It's my right of way".  It bloody wasn't!  The fact that you would have had right of way over the car if I hadn't been there was overruled by my presence.  The driver would have been perfectly justified in carrying on South, because of my presence, you knob.  As it was, he stayed where he was, bemused by your stupidity.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 20 April, 2011, 09:37:15 am
Got caught by a triathlete as I went up the first slope out of the house so i rode to work via his training route through Hemyock.  I went somewhat quicker than usual, nice for a change
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 20 April, 2011, 09:45:48 am
Second commute of the year and the first in shorts
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 20 April, 2011, 09:57:24 am
Mega long commute.....

Bedroom to office, all of 2 meters....

Shall make up for it later with a blast out on the tagalong with TLD...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 20 April, 2011, 10:00:01 am
Quote from: tiermat on 20 April, 2011, 09:57:24 am
Mega long commute.....

Bedroom to office, all of 2 meters....

Shall make up for it later with a blast out on the tagalong with TLD...

Dont'ya just love these difficult commutes ;) ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ravenbait on 20 April, 2011, 10:00:12 am
Still off the commute with this sweary-word chest infection.

Back to the doc's this morning.

Sam
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 20 April, 2011, 10:03:53 am
Quote from: jogler on 20 April, 2011, 10:00:01 am
Quote from: tiermat on 20 April, 2011, 09:57:24 am
Mega long commute.....

Bedroom to office, all of 2 meters....

Shall make up for it later with a blast out on the tagalong with TLD...

Dont'ya just love these difficult commutes ;) ;D

With my similar commute I find two challenges - the stairs can be tricky, and getting MrsH to allow me to keep the bike in the bedroom ready for the ride to the office.
 :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 20 April, 2011, 10:05:04 am
Quote from: MattH on 20 April, 2011, 10:03:53 am
Quote from: jogler on 20 April, 2011, 10:00:01 am
Quote from: tiermat on 20 April, 2011, 09:57:24 am
Mega long commute.....

Bedroom to office, all of 2 meters....

Shall make up for it later with a blast out on the tagalong with TLD...

Dont'ya just love these difficult commutes ;) ;D

With my similar commute I find two challenges - the stairs can be tricky, and getting MrsH to allow me to keep the bike in the bedroom ready for the ride to the office.
 :)

At least I know the coffee is good at this office :) :D

And trying to get down the stairs on a bike, any bike would be a real challenge
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 20 April, 2011, 10:20:56 am
Quote from: ravenbait on 20 April, 2011, 10:00:12 am
Still off the commute with this sweary-word chest infection.

Back to the doc's this morning.

Sam

Same here.  Bah humbug!  I'm even too ill to think about going in on public transport. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 20 April, 2011, 10:31:16 am
Very considerate driving from a UK Mail truck last night.

Overtook me a couple of hundred yards before a tight mini-roundabout (where I always take the lane). I tucked in behind him in primary, only to be undteraken by a numptie on a BSO who rode down his left sideso that they both arrived at the roundabout together.

Driver was obviously making good use of his mirrors because he stopped and let the twit squeeze through. But then didn't move.  I realised he must be waiting to see where I had got to so I pulled out to his right (still behind him) and gave him a shout and a wave, only to get a thumbs-up back as he pulled off.  I returned the gesture when I passed him further up the road.

It's great to see all the spring bikes coming out but i do worry that some of them might not make it to the summer  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smurphboy on 20 April, 2011, 10:34:31 am
Fantastic commute - Bristol is pretty empty of traffic this week  :) - and the sun is out :)

Severe temptation to be 'late' and go the long way if it is like this tomorrow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sigod on 20 April, 2011, 11:42:25 am
Quote from: clarion on 19 April, 2011, 09:48:43 pm
I was quite quick.  But I would have been an awful lot quicker if I hadn't had to stop for so many damn red lights :(
There are just some days where every red light seems to be waiting to leap out at you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 20 April, 2011, 11:49:16 am
It was a pity about the driver who made a spirited attempt to smash me off the road, when she tried to overtake the traffic by using the right (wrong) side of the road, which was empty.  Well, mostly empty.  Well, not empty at all, in fact, since I was there, but I managed to body-swerve around her bumper and offer a few choice words.

That apart, I had a great ride in this morning - the timing of the lights couldn't have been more perfect if I'd had a magic button to change them from red to green, so I swept through them all and across the junctions without slowing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sigod on 20 April, 2011, 11:50:55 am
Got overtaken by a guy this morning who then settled into a much slower cruising speed than I and appeared to see my overtaking him as a personal insult. Every set of lights we hit, he would race off, arse out of the saddle, clicking through the gears like he was knitting a sweater only to have me reel him in and gently pass him by within a couple of hundred yards.

He was not a happy bunny which was a shame 'cos it's a brilliant day to be out on two wheels.  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 20 April, 2011, 05:01:47 pm
Couple of guys on a tandem (Thorn!) between Tooting and South Wimbledon last night.  From behind they looked very happy twiddling away, but were stony faced from the front.  Caught up with them and drew level.  The captain took the bait and they went whizzing off.  They left a wake of coolness across the A24/A238.

This morning I had words with a guy who was weaving in and out of everyone and twice cut across me on the approach to traffic lights.  He apologised, then did the same thing to another cyclist at the next set of lights.  Unable to work out where our debate was likely to go, I left him to it.  Impossible to imagine that sort of behaviour being acceptable in any context.

My commute is, roughly, south then west, so the (unusual) SE winds are a big treat for a hard warm up and speedy run in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 20 April, 2011, 06:56:32 pm
Only 37kph top speed today, compared to 42kph yesterday.  Slipping.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 20 April, 2011, 07:08:03 pm
another beautiful evening for my 15mile greenbelt commute that avoids Bracknell to stay in the country side.

Just under the hour which seems to be par for the fixie.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 21 April, 2011, 09:17:36 am
I iz a legend. Apparently.

Last night, about 5 miles from home I was happily tootling along the cycle path when I spotted a rider out of the corner of my eye, tucked in behind me. No idea how long they'd been there. I pulled left so they could come alongside for a chat.

"Are you the bloke who rides along the A64" says he

"Um, yeah"

He talks about riding for a bit, then I ask him:
"How did you know I was the bloke who rides along the A64?"

"You're a legend."

 ;D

I think it's a complement. Sort of. No idea why I'm a 'legend'. Legendary dumb, maybe.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 21 April, 2011, 09:27:14 am
a leg end is a foot
that's 12"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 April, 2011, 09:51:05 am
A legend in our midst.  We are honoured. :)

I had a fantastic ride in today.  Perfect conditions.  Light traffic.  Just a couple of times having to wait for the big metal stuff to get out of the way (I don't choose to squeeze through those little spaces), and a decent average speed.

Butterfly's getting faster, which means she's skhaking off the persistent illness she's been suffering with. :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Alouicious on 21 April, 2011, 10:14:01 am
Hoorah... Sunrise before I arrive at work. Can dump the lamps in four weeks.

Got a 'suicide Blackbird' in my front wheel. Hope its OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 21 April, 2011, 10:18:38 am
Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird: Aircraft profile | Aviation Spectator - Airplanes, airliners, jets, videos, photos - RC to ballooning, civil and military aircraft, aerospace (http://www.aviationspectator.com/resources/aircraft-profiles/lockheed-sr-71-blackbird-aircraft-profile)


HTF did that manage to pass thru' your wheel :o

any spoke/rim damage?
 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tourist Tony on 22 April, 2011, 09:04:08 pm
Swung out for the double pothole and got the PARP from the Corsa behind, who got the pointy-army-tutting-great-hole-in-the-road.

So he decided to tell me my lights were inadequate as he went past. Well, I suppose they are, at least to the totally blind!

This is part of my light set
Evans Cycles | Cateye EL530/LD1100 Light Set | Online Bike Shop (http://www.evanscycles.com/products/cateye/el530-ld1100-light-set-ec007963)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 April, 2011, 09:57:49 am
Back to commuting, for a surreally short three days.  Roads were a bit busier than expected, but not too bad.  I rode up with Butterfly to Balham, then on from there.  I was pleased to see that I caught up with one of the fast regulars on my route. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 26 April, 2011, 10:29:19 am
On the weekend discovered that the Roadrat had a funny valve in the rear tyre.  Pump it up to 6 bar and it hisses.  But after an hour or two it is still at 3 bar.  So I replaced that

Then, this morning about to leap on the Orbea when I realise that that has a flat rear.  I haven't ridden it all weekend and the tyre was fine when I cleaned it on friday.  So I took the Roadrat.

I guess the variations in temperature from almost 25C in the day to 5C at night isn't agreeable for inner tubes
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smurphboy on 26 April, 2011, 10:55:21 am
Much preferred the cooler weather today on the commute. Even managed to pass a few people on the little climb up to Lockleaze this morning.

More traffic than I expected today but still quite quiet by normal standards. I was slower today which is probably because I CBA to pump the tyres up this morning, they seemed a little squishy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 26 April, 2011, 10:58:53 am
Hard work into a much colder headwind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 26 April, 2011, 11:05:45 am
First time on a bike for 2 weeks, felt sluggish but did a surprisingly good time into work. The 400 this weekend is going to be a slog. ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hulver on 26 April, 2011, 11:12:11 am
On the geared bike again today, I've still not put the Langster back together, and I'm enjoying having a freewheel again.

Quite a strong head wind this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 26 April, 2011, 01:46:00 pm
<looks in through door .... makes off-hand comment: "place hasn't changed much" trying to convince himself and others that he hasn't been reading this thread for the past 3 months rather in the manner of bike pr0n. Fails>

I WAS on the commute today!!! Onna brand spanking noo Pompetamine, too.

Thankfully my place of work has changed and I now only have 16 miles instead of 26. My right foot (wot had the operation) happened to mention at around 12 miles that it was still there. My left knee (that of the ligament knackering) had a quiet word in my ear as I climbed up (the side of) the A40 at the end of the journey, but I are here.

Smelly central line, kiss my lycra-clad ass.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 26 April, 2011, 02:05:55 pm
Managed to squeeze in 503m of climbing this morning, which in South Cambridgeshire, is no mean feat!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: anotherdeadhero on 26 April, 2011, 05:07:13 pm
This morning: plink. plinkety plinkety plinkety plinkety plinkety plinkety plinkety plinkety etc ...

Broken a spoke in the back wheel again. I'm now running 29er MTB disc rims, 3 cross, good build. Just WTF am I doing to back wheels FFS?  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 26 April, 2011, 05:40:20 pm
It is either poor spokes or a poor builder. Which is most likely?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smurphboy on 26 April, 2011, 09:40:01 pm
Quote from: Ham on 26 April, 2011, 01:46:00 pm
Onna brand spanking noo Pompetamine, too.

Alfine versa with discs? 8 or 11 gears?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 26 April, 2011, 10:30:19 pm
Quote from: smurphboy on 26 April, 2011, 09:40:01 pm
Quote from: Ham on 26 April, 2011, 01:46:00 pm
Onna brand spanking noo Pompetamine, too.

Alfine versa with discs? 8 or 11 gears?


The 11 is going to be another 2 months, so I went with the 8. I'll post some pics when I get a moment.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 26 April, 2011, 10:36:58 pm
Went a longish way home and ripped the arse out of it.  Saw a group of riders stopped at the roadside and shouted hello, and the reply came back “Hello Simon!” so I stopped to see who it was; it was my old colleague Donald out with his mates for a ride.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 27 April, 2011, 07:40:42 am
Had a driver behind me on the phone, who put it down immediately I pointed to the rear camera, after making the phone to ear sign.  At the traffic lights he asked "So what are the cameras for then?"  and you should have seen his face when I told him they were to film drivers on the phone.  :D :D

He asked if he was going to get a ticket from the police, and I said, no, probably just a letter.  We chatted for a couple more traffic lights, and I told him he was so nice that I just couldn't report him.  His driving had been decent too, and no attitude at all, and he totally took that driving on the phone was potentially like drink driving.  Cheered up my whole commute, that did.

Otherwise all was lovely, I'm so lucky to be able to ride to work like this.  A car let me change lanes in front of them to go around a stopped bus, and got a big smile and thumbs up from them for my salute of thanks, only afterwards seeing that it was a police car (it was dark).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smurphboy on 27 April, 2011, 09:20:38 am
Quote from: Ham on 26 April, 2011, 10:30:19 pm
Quote from: smurphboy on 26 April, 2011, 09:40:01 pm
Quote from: Ham on 26 April, 2011, 01:46:00 pm
Onna brand spanking noo Pompetamine, too.

Alfine versa with discs? 8 or 11 gears?


The 11 is going to be another 2 months, so I went with the 8. I'll post some pics when I get a moment.

I'm beginning to think the 11 is a myth just to make me wait for n+1...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 April, 2011, 10:08:42 am
Pleasant ride this morning.  Hardly felt like a headwind at all again.  Rode the first half with Butterfly, then rode hard for the rest.  Lovely weather. 

Sadly, the expected light traffic this week hasn't materialised, and there were lots of queues this morning, but it was much much better to be on a bike than in a box.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 27 April, 2011, 10:17:16 am
Another flat tyre in the morning on the Orbea.  I think my patching technique needs work
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hulver on 27 April, 2011, 10:21:21 am
I tried a different route into work from the GF's house.

I won't be taking that one again. Sinking up to the rims in loose gravel isn't my idea of fun, not on narrow road tyres anyway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 27 April, 2011, 07:04:03 pm
* *** *** black hatchback just gave me a slow left hook followed by instant abuse. Just seen them again, so parked up for breather. Just a grazed shin. Bike OK.
 
Edit - removed licence number now I'm home and have entered it into operation crackdown web site.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 27 April, 2011, 08:00:50 pm
Also on the commute today, someone on a "butchers" bike, complete with bungees, but only luggage was an orange carrier bag carried in his hand.  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 April, 2011, 08:08:16 pm
Very fast commute (tailwind assisted).  Punctuated by a few idiotic motorised manoeuvres. ::-)  Best of all was a close left hook by a Royal Mail van, which had a scraping dent all the way along the left side.  Wonder if they've done that before?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 27 April, 2011, 09:58:22 pm
Back on the commute after 2 weeks sunning ourselves in the Cornish surfing Mecca...

Lovely sunny day. 18kph NE wind so a fair bit of headwind home. 15C so wearing shorts only was OK.
Cracking ride - 57km & 900m climbing in 2h08 - best for the year so far.

Its a great route! This is a view of part of the commute - Roper hill. 10-14%. Lodge Moor in the foreground, Sheffield in the background. Work is 25km further on to the right.....

The steel dream bicycle in the foreground is an Orbit Photon. (Open image in a new window for better resolution)

(http://www.meiring.org.uk/photos/roper-hill.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dinamo on 28 April, 2011, 06:24:35 am
Only 3.5 C this morning  :o
Ring road widening between the M32 and the UWE continues leaving various traffic furnture encroaching onto the already busy/narrow cyclepath ! How about widening cyclepath at same time ?
Ok,thats my rant over for the day ! Apart from that a nice ride to work, listening to Turn Brakes The Optimist  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 28 April, 2011, 09:12:17 am
I commuted in this morning with a camping load.  Took me one hour moving compared to the (wind-assisted) 48 mins home last night on the fixed.  But it was fun.  Traffic wasn't as bad as it had been Tues/Wed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 28 April, 2011, 09:27:11 am
Sometimes it's the cyclists:


    YouTube
        - Bl00dy Cyclists - 4 x wrong way and 2 x close passes
   (http://youtu.be/kI6OOUvuHzo)


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 28 April, 2011, 09:48:04 am
Cold but pleasant
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 28 April, 2011, 09:49:17 am
Quote from: Dinamo on 28 April, 2011, 06:24:35 am
Only 3.5 C this morning  :o

Yes, 3 degrees here and it caught me out because I’d not checked the forecast the night before.  I turned round after half a mile (before a long downhill) and returned home to swap the sandals for shoes (I can cope with sandals from about 8 degrees but not 3) and to add an extra layer.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 28 April, 2011, 09:50:48 am
Quiet morning, and I'm a fully paid up member of Team Slow at the moment (16 miles, 1.5hours)

But. Girlies. And it is girlies I'm talking about, doing the cycling equivalent of that girlie running thing - you know legs everywhere and hands windmilling. PLEASE look round before you wibble around things, or into the middle of the road to turn right. Thankfully, most drivers are nice, but on three occasions that I saw this morning, your continued existence depended on drivers being nice. Oh, and wafting a hand AS you are manoeuvring doesn't really do much, neither does a magic pudding basin on your head.

I'm very happy you are cycling, please put a little effort into trying to continue to do so.

As people will no doubt point out there are a whole host of riders who fail to look, but there is something about the girly way of doing it that both makes me cringe and smile at the same time. Maybe a figment of my imagination?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 28 April, 2011, 11:05:21 am
Windy, isn't it?  But still > 15mph rolling average in a headwind on my Pompino.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 28 April, 2011, 11:18:28 am
I was sworn at by a cyclist this morning while crossing (on foot) a one way street, which he was riding up the wrong way. I tend to take the view that I shouldn't need to look both ways  >:(   Hope the guys in the clip carry organ donor cards.

Quote from: Wendy on 28 April, 2011, 09:27:11 am
Sometimes it's the cyclists:


    YouTube
        - Bl00dy Cyclists - 4 x wrong way and 2 x close passes
   (http://youtu.be/kI6OOUvuHzo)



Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 28 April, 2011, 11:22:18 am
...and the rear view:


    YouTube
        - Bl00dy Cyclists - rear view
   (http://youtu.be/bTVNl6KX150)

I wonder if they were having a race?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 28 April, 2011, 11:25:14 am
Quote from: Redlight on 28 April, 2011, 11:18:28 am
I was sworn at by a cyclist this morning while crossing (on foot) a one way street, which he was riding up the wrong way. I tend to take the view that I shouldn't need to look both ways  >:(   Hope the guys in the clip carry organ donor cards.

*does not like*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tourist Tony on 28 April, 2011, 02:18:00 pm
Went to pick up new axe , which was in rucksack-type bag. Headwind all way home. Big sail area on back. Arse.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 28 April, 2011, 08:17:31 pm
Quote from: Tourist Tony on 28 April, 2011, 02:18:00 pm
Went to pick up new axe , which was in rucksack-type bag. Headwind all way home. Big sail area on back. Arse.

Yeah but you have a new axe
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 28 April, 2011, 08:26:50 pm
"End of April. Time for a new axe".
As my granny always used to say.....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 28 April, 2011, 08:32:45 pm
Quote from: Tourist Tony on 28 April, 2011, 02:18:00 pm
Went to pick up new axe , which was in rucksack-type bag. Headwind all way home. Big sail area on back. Arse.

Anyone try a close pass?  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tourist Tony on 28 April, 2011, 09:33:32 pm
Picture of said new axe is on the "Instruments" thread on OT Gallery.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 28 April, 2011, 10:01:25 pm
 :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 28 April, 2011, 10:15:51 pm
Quote from: Tourist Tony on 28 April, 2011, 09:33:32 pm
Picture of said new axe is on the "Instruments" thread on OT Gallery.

Not yet?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 28 April, 2011, 11:06:33 pm
So I left work after 10pm in the end, and I had to take a detour because of blue police tape across the road.  First I saw a couple of blues & twos heading /away/ from the scene, then I came upon it, about 5 police/ambulance vehicles in attendance on Coldhams Lane, and the road closed.  Took a right, down a cycle path, rejoined at next side road beyond the closure.  No idea WTF is going on, but when I got to Teversham Drift I saw another police vehicle coming the other way and a /fire engine/ stopped at the roadside with its engine running - waiting to get involved if needed?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 29 April, 2011, 03:12:35 pm
Quote from: simonp on 28 April, 2011, 11:06:33 pm
So I left work after 10pm in the end, and I had to take a detour because of blue police tape across the road.  First I saw a couple of blues & twos heading /away/ from the scene, then I came upon it, about 5 police/ambulance vehicles in attendance on Coldhams Lane, and the road closed.  Took a right, down a cycle path, rejoined at next side road beyond the closure.  No idea WTF is going on, but when I got to Teversham Drift I saw another police vehicle coming the other way and a /fire engine/ stopped at the roadside with its engine running - waiting to get involved if needed?


Oh dear. :(


   Cambridge News | Latest News Headlines From Cambridge City & Cambridgeshire | National News By Cambridge News | Death is confirmed after house fire in Cambridge
 (http://www.cambridge-news.co.uk/Home/Person-dies-after-house-fire-29042011.htm)

I must have arrived on the scene about 10 minutes after the first fire engine got there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tourist Tony on 29 April, 2011, 08:47:56 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 28 April, 2011, 10:15:51 pm
Quote from: Tourist Tony on 28 April, 2011, 09:33:32 pm
Picture of said new axe is on the "Instruments" thread on OT Gallery.

Not yet?

Is there now!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 03 May, 2011, 07:59:09 am
Hedgerows solid white with what I assume to be hawthorn blossom, verges ditto with cow parsley.  Astonishing how quickly things change at this time of year.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 03 May, 2011, 08:29:02 am
First day back on the commute after a week's holiday!  Left home at 7:15, lovely fresh morning and a fast time in.  Shame about the job at the end of it, but hey.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 May, 2011, 10:30:00 am
Lovely weather, if a bit cold.  Still, shorts & ss jersey were fine.  However, I must have been invisible, as two very close passes caused me to swear.

On Upper Tooting Road, there was a plaver, with a few cyclists stood at the side of the road with a driver, whose car was still in the middle of the road, part way through a manoeuvre of pulling out of a side road on the right.  Not sure what happened, but I think I can guess.

Bit further on, I had yet another close pass - this time from a Lambeth-contracted Veolia bus.  He then pulled in to the ASL reservoir at the lights.  I stopped in front of him, and explained what he'd done (he didn't seem aware that it was an offence ::-) ), asking for more space next time he passed.

As I turned to get ready for the lights to change, another rider said that the same had happened to him.  But I brightened up about half a dozen riders' commutes when I told them that, by pure happenstance, I have a contract review discussion with Veolia scheduled for later today. ;D

Ironic, really, given that Veolia/Lambeth make so much of a deal about their drivers' cycle awareness training, and that they have warning signs on the back of the buses.

The driver's apology, of course, counted for naught when we came to the place where general traffic merges into the bus lane.  Prat.

Hey ho.  If I can't educate the driver about the rules of the road, he will at least learn that people riding bikes can be influential.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 03 May, 2011, 10:34:36 am
Quote from: clarion on 03 May, 2011, 10:30:00 am

Hey ho.  If I can't educate the driver about the rules of the road, he will at least learn that people riding bikes can be influential.

"With great power comes great responsibility"  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 03 May, 2011, 10:43:41 am
You'll report that driver, right?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 May, 2011, 10:57:32 am
To Lambeth, Veolia and Roadsafe, you betcha! ;D

Just mid-grink ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 03 May, 2011, 11:06:07 am
Chuffed!  Fankooo verra much.   :thumbsup:  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nightfly on 03 May, 2011, 11:41:56 am
Quote from: clarion on 03 May, 2011, 10:30:00 am
Lovely weather, if a bit cold.  Still, shorts & ss jersey were fine.  However, I must have been invisible, as two very close passes caused me to swear.

On Upper Tooting Road, there was a plaver, with a few cyclists stood at the side of the road with a driver, whose car was still in the middle of the road, part way through a manoeuvre of pulling out of a side road on the right.  Not sure what happened, but I think I can guess.

Bit further on, I had yet another close pass - this time from a Lambeth-contracted Veolia bus.  He then pulled in to the ASL reservoir at the lights.  I stopped in front of him, and explained what he'd done (he didn't seem aware that it was an offence ::-) ), asking for more space next time he passed.

As I turned to get ready for the lights to change, another rider said that the same had happened to him.  But I brightened up about half a dozen riders' commutes when I told them that, by pure happenstance, I have a contract review discussion with Veolia scheduled for later today. ;D

Ironic, really, given that Veolia/Lambeth make so much of a deal about their drivers' cycle awareness training, and that they have warning signs on the back of the buses.

The driver's apology, of course, counted for naught when we came to the place where general traffic merges into the bus lane.  Prat.

Hey ho.  If I can't educate the driver about the rules of the road, he will at least learn that people riding bikes can be influential.

Priceless  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 03 May, 2011, 12:01:24 pm
Bloody cold this morning in the sun.  Cheeky east wind
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 03 May, 2011, 12:15:34 pm
Whee!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 03 May, 2011, 12:18:31 pm
Cold knees....not nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 May, 2011, 12:41:51 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 03 May, 2011, 10:43:41 am
You'll report that driver, right?
Quote from: clarion on 03 May, 2011, 10:57:32 am
To Lambeth, Veolia and Roadsafe, you betcha! ;D

Just mid-grink ;)

Reported to Met via Roadsafe and to Lambeth Council.  Unsurprisingly, it is hard to get a complaints contact for Veolia, but have left a telephone message with a senior manager.  Letter to them drafted and ready to roll as soon as I get an address.

Sadly, the Veolia contract review has been postponed. :(

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tourist Tony on 03 May, 2011, 12:51:50 pm
Veolia: where from this name she come?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 03 May, 2011, 02:10:14 pm
Quote from: Tourist Tony on 03 May, 2011, 12:51:50 pm
Veolia: where from this name she come?

She's one of the 9 modern muses, along with

   Accenture,
   Aviva,
   Corus,
   Diageo,
   Emis,
   Lenovo,
   Prius,

and

   Qinetiq
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 May, 2011, 02:18:08 pm
At least EMIS is a proper acronym - Egton Medical Information Systems.  The rest are just adman PR focusgroup-tested international bollox.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 03 May, 2011, 02:22:24 pm
Heh, I did put that one in just for you ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 May, 2011, 02:22:54 pm
:)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 03 May, 2011, 10:41:18 pm
My unCommute was rudely interrupted by 500m of swim, & spa.  Hardship.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 03 May, 2011, 11:11:38 pm
At least 5 drivers on the phone tonight, will see the vid tomorrow and road safe them.  One driver who passed me sort of OK, but an upright cyclist much too close.  Recumbent FTW again.  Lovely commute otherwise, apart from my stupid mistake of taking short finger gloves for the 5 degree ride home.  Sweet agony...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 04 May, 2011, 07:40:58 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 03 May, 2011, 02:10:14 pm
Quote from: Tourist Tony on 03 May, 2011, 12:51:50 pm
Veolia: where from this name she come?

She's one of the 9 modern muses, along with

   Accenture,
   Aviva,
   Corus,
   Diageo,
   Emis,
   Lenovo,
   Prius,

and

   Qinetiq

Bravo!  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tourist Tony on 04 May, 2011, 08:33:50 am
I am reminded of an episode of Kath and Kim.

"Saw a great name for a baby girl in the hospital, Mum!"

"What was that?"

"Enema!"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 04 May, 2011, 08:34:40 am
I tandemed No2Daughter down to the bus.

Am now learning that 'total rest' should actually mean 'total rest' and not just 'don't ride like you usually would'.

Good morning Ibuprofen.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 04 May, 2011, 08:41:29 am
Quote from: boab on 04 May, 2011, 08:34:40 am
I tandemed No2Daughter down to the bus.

Am now learning that 'total rest' should actually mean 'total rest' and not just 'don't ride like you usually would'.

Good morning Ibuprofen.

Oh good lord, woman - anybody would think you liked me nagging you!

Hope the vitamin I helps, and that it feels better soon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 04 May, 2011, 08:56:28 am
Mmmm, very fast commute in this morning, despite not heading off till after 8.  Lovely commuting weather at the moment.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 04 May, 2011, 09:15:39 am
To the couple of SCRs who see a fat old git kitted in Assos as a challenge. I is a fat old git, and I is a sub-optimal fat old git too. Been 3 months off my bike with one foot and one ankle having to be somewhat cosseted. As a result I am not either racing or riding fast, probably 60-70% of normal, at best. I am wearing my bib shorts because my nooo pompetamine is more comfortable that way than with baggies. The Assos top just happened in rotation.

And you had to work bloody hard to drop me, din'cha?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 04 May, 2011, 09:32:06 am
Ah, I forgot about this moment, made me feel good for miles afterwards:


    YouTube
        - Nice bus drivers make it easy to be nice back...
   (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s0CRUpmypYk)

Thank yous and consideration are worth so much on the road!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 May, 2011, 09:49:47 am
Ridiculous amounts of motor traffic on the roads this morning! :o

Made progress very slow.  :(

But the ride was livened up by an idiot in a pickup.  As I came round the Mitcham Common RAB to turn right onto the cycle lane, the idiot zoomed down off the hump-backed bridge and stopped well over the line.  I looked him in the eye to determine if he was going to keep going.  He wasn't, but, as I passed, he sounded his horn.  I shouldn't have laughed.  I really shouldn't.  And I really really shouldn't have laughed so hard I had to stop just off the RAB and turn round to get another look.  It meant he swore at me and gesticulated.  But the horn attached to this big, butch example of motorised machismo happened to sound like that of a clown car.  Sad sad sad. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 04 May, 2011, 10:58:37 am
Tail wind + BrevetCymru strengthened legs = tried for PB time.

Failed, probably due to still having a 67" gear on, and the motor traffic getting in the way.  18'22; PB is 17'05 IIRC.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 May, 2011, 11:27:45 am
Quote from: clarion on 03 May, 2011, 12:41:51 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 03 May, 2011, 10:43:41 am
You'll report that driver, right?
Quote from: clarion on 03 May, 2011, 10:57:32 am
To Lambeth, Veolia and Roadsafe, you betcha! ;D

Just mid-grink ;)

Reported to Met via Roadsafe and to Lambeth Council.  Unsurprisingly, it is hard to get a complaints contact for Veolia, but have left a telephone message with a senior manager.  Letter to them drafted and ready to roll as soon as I get an address.

Sadly, the Veolia contract review has been postponed. :(



Didn't get a call back from Veolia >:(

However, I did try a different route through, and got to speak to a good man in the Fleet Dept to give the information.  He has apologised and promised to follow it up.  Top marks for customer service there.

Forcing me to Google again has actually adversely affected Veolia's position wrt our contract, since it threw up the fact that they are working with the Israeli Govt & military in the West Bank to sequester water resources.  In addition, they are building the Jerusalem Light railway, which has links to illegal settlements.  This in itself is illegal activity, and I certainly don't approve.

Boycott Israeli Goods campaign   Veolia - Boycott Israeli Goods campaign (http://www.bigcampaign.org/veolia/)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 04 May, 2011, 11:33:35 am
Accompanied for a hundred yards or so on this morning's (frosty) ride by a lesser spotted woodpecker.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim on 04 May, 2011, 12:03:12 pm
6½ miles of commuting and I didn't get a single comment from a bystander, despite the fact that I was riding the tandem solo!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 04 May, 2011, 12:08:22 pm
Quote from: Tim on 04 May, 2011, 12:03:12 pm
6½ miles of commuting and I didn't get a single comment from a bystander, despite the fact that I was riding the tandem solo!

One of my colleagues has done that quite regularly in the past.  Sometimes he would pick up another colleague en route.  Peds and drivers seem uninterested.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 May, 2011, 12:10:18 pm
When we tandem together, we attract lots of comments.  I've ridden it solo miles on several occasions (including the school run and a long section of NCN Route 66) and not got one word. ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sigod on 04 May, 2011, 04:06:54 pm
I rode into work today for the first time with my new bike pump attached.

Now I can take over the world.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 04 May, 2011, 04:19:02 pm
Quote from: clarion on 04 May, 2011, 12:10:18 pm
When we tandem together, we attract lots of comments.  I've ridden it solo miles on several occasions (including the school run and a long section of NCN Route 66) and not got one word. ???

It's the Butterfly Effect ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 04 May, 2011, 05:39:21 pm
Quote from: clarion on 03 May, 2011, 02:18:08 pm
The rest are just adman PR focusgroup-tested international bollox.

True.  But looking into the history of Veolia, it seems they sprung from a company called Compagnie Générale des Eaux, founded by imperial decree of Naploeon III. Which presses my historical buttons.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 04 May, 2011, 07:07:29 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 04 May, 2011, 11:33:35 am
Accompanied for a hundred yards or so on this morning's (frosty) ride by a lesser spotted woodpecker.
If it was a lesser as opposed to a greater you were very lucky!  (They're very rare, about the size of a sparrow and tend to live in the tops of trees) But whatever sort of woodpecker it was that's a lovely experience.  It's happened to me with green woodpeckers a couple of times

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 May, 2011, 07:36:40 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 04 May, 2011, 05:39:21 pm
Quote from: clarion on 03 May, 2011, 02:18:08 pm
The rest are just adman PR focusgroup-tested international bollox.

True.  But looking into the history of Veolia, it seems they sprung from a company called Compagnie Générale des Eaux, founded by imperial decree of Naploeon III. Which presses my historical buttons.

Via being the utterly hopeless and universally hated Connex.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 04 May, 2011, 09:03:27 pm
I saw a dead Great Tit on the way home.  :'(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 May, 2011, 09:27:08 am
Had a lovely fast ride.  Guess there was a tailwind.  Big pack of cyclists riding today, too, which was fab.  I was getting smartly away from the lights and up to a good cruising speed.  At one point, though, I slowed down to 33kph, and a number of riders passed me!  It's getting faster out there, people. :o

But the ride was punctuated by the most appalling general driving standards.  I saw and heard the aftermath of a lorry/car smash before I even got to the polling station.  From the damage and the position, I guess there were at least two idiots involved.  A bus cut right across the lane not quite in front of me into a bus stop, which was a bit hairy.  A truck tried to intimidate a cyclist out of the way with his horn.  And no end of drivers unable to stop at lines or lights of some kind or other.  Unbelievable queues caused by selfish and ignorant drivers. ::-)

Although in a lot of places there was no safe way past, so I had to wait in line, there were other jams where the cyclists managed to pick our way through.

What I don't understand is how, if all these commuters have got on their bikes, where are all the extra drivers coming from?  We must be running out of people to sit eating their breakfast, doing their make up, talking on the phone and leaning out of the window to shout random abuse.  Surely not every cyclist used to be a bus or tube passenger - they must be clearing some road space, yet it is being rapidly filled and more... :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 05 May, 2011, 09:39:34 am
Quote from: Grub on 04 May, 2011, 09:03:27 pm
I saw a dead Great Tit on the way home.  :'(

And when you got home you saw a live one in the bathroom?   ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 05 May, 2011, 11:04:37 am
Quote from: clarion on 05 May, 2011, 09:27:08 am
Had a lovely fast ride.  Guess there was a tailwind.  Big pack of cyclists riding today, too, which was fab.  I was getting smartly away from the lights and up to a good cruising speed.  At one point, though, I slowed down to 33kph, and a number of riders passed me!  It's getting faster out there, people. :o

But the ride was punctuated by the most appalling general driving standards.  I saw and heard the aftermath of a lorry/car smash before I even got to the polling station.  From the damage and the position, I guess there were at least two idiots involved.  A bus cut right across the lane not quite in front of me into a bus stop, which was a bit hairy.  A truck tried to intimidate a cyclist out of the way with his horn.  And no end of drivers unable to stop at lines or lights of some kind or other.  Unbelievable queues caused by selfish and ignorant drivers. ::-)

Although in a lot of places there was no safe way past, so I had to wait in line, there were other jams where the cyclists managed to pick our way through.

What I don't understand is how, if all these commuters have got on their bikes, where are all the extra drivers coming from?  We must be running out of people to sit eating their breakfast, doing their make up, talking on the phone and leaning out of the window to shout random abuse.  Surely not every cyclist used to be a bus or tube passenger - they must be clearing some road space, yet it is being rapidly filled and more... :(

There must be some hidden roadworks on part of my route because like Clarion, there's loads of piled up traffic on my way in and I simply can't see where it's come from all of a sudden. The start of the new school term was predictable, but I have traffic jams along Tooting Bec, around Balham and Clapham and also all the way down Queenstown Road to deal with (which I suspect is linked to "improvements" to Queens Circle for the CS8). There are loads of roadworks in Sotyh Ken as well.

Add the crap off the Plane trees into the mix and it's a pretty horrible ride in at present.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 05 May, 2011, 11:11:47 am
Plane tree fluff and seeds are awful, aren't they?  My eyes have that sandpaper feel all the time at the moment.  I'm not noticeably allergic to it, it's just a particulate irritant.  The worst is when you breathe some in and it goes down into your bronchial tubes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 May, 2011, 11:13:23 am
We are getting problems at work with it blowing in through windows and affecting staff and patients.  I'm amazed how much there is around.  Combination of warm spring and wind, I suppose.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 05 May, 2011, 11:24:58 am
Overtook four cyclists this morning, which is a record. (I can go for weeks without seeing any on the ride in to work). Only one was up for a challenge!

A good start to the day.

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 05 May, 2011, 07:19:49 pm
I passed the funeral cortège for Buster (http://about-us.pimlicoplumbers.com/media/blogs/buster-s-funeral-may-5th) Pimlico Plumbers' oldest employee who died recently.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 05 May, 2011, 10:49:49 pm
Rode with Miss Dan the Elder and her mate, who were cycling in today because they're doing bikeability at school, and Miss Dan the Younger on the back. Then a damp ride in and a roughstuff ride home. Tomorrow the cycle training continues, but it is also soundmakers. Cello and guitar aren't the most easily transported instruments so an alternative has been found.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 05 May, 2011, 10:50:13 pm
Saw a deliberate crashing behind me today, one car ramming another onto the pavement and then chasing down the occupants of the first car.  Dunno much more than that, will check the video tomorrow to see if anything useful was recorded.

Oh, and spotted arallsop on the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 06 May, 2011, 08:47:42 am

    YouTube
        - 20110505-crash-short-version-view-from-rear
   (http://youtu.be/rMRbGLI7mlE)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 06 May, 2011, 08:54:27 am
Not easy to see what they're up to, from that distance.

Pleasant early run today (started at 6:40).  Was stopped at temporary lights at the junction of Beaufort Road and Kings Road and the driver beside me wound her window and said: "Mate, these are four-way lights; you'll be here for ages."  "I know." I replied.  This seemed to phase her.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 06 May, 2011, 09:00:16 am
Yeah, it's not great, but if you full-screen at 1080 you can see the last two times the audi hit the mondeo and barged it up onto the pavement.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 06 May, 2011, 09:33:55 am
Set off this morning, had gone about 50 yards, when I had to stop and ask a passing pedestrian to untangle my right shoelace from the crank.

And to add humiliation to embarrassment, he then proceeded to re-tie the lace.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 06 May, 2011, 09:34:45 am
Quote from: Kirst on 06 May, 2011, 09:33:55 am
Set off this morning, had gone about 50 yards, when I had to stop and ask a passing pedestrian to untangle my right shoelace from the crank.

And to add humiliation to embarrassment, he then proceeded to re-tie the lace.

 ;D ;D ;D ;D

Finally, a knight in shining armour eh?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 06 May, 2011, 09:41:03 am
Quote from: Kirst on 06 May, 2011, 09:33:55 am
Set off this morning, had gone about 50 yards, when I had to stop and ask a passing pedestrian to untangle my right shoelace from the crank.

And to add humiliation to embarrassment, he then proceeded to re-tie the lace.

*snort*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 06 May, 2011, 10:30:10 am
In contrast to yesterday's commuter racing I saw precisely ZERO other bikes on this morning's commute.

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: darkpoint on 06 May, 2011, 10:32:20 am
Still not seen Clarion between Clapham and the Elephant,  it has been over a fortnight now, I suspect that he is cheating and just pretending to cycle in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 06 May, 2011, 10:45:16 am
Quote from: Kirst on 06 May, 2011, 09:33:55 am
Set off this morning, had gone about 50 yards, when I had to stop and ask a passing pedestrian to untangle my right shoelace from the crank.

And to add humiliation to embarrassment, he then proceeded to re-tie the lace.
I can beat that - my back was giving me righteous amounts of grief this morning, so I had to ask my 80-year old neighbour to help me lift the bike over the threshold ...

Other than that, the high point was stopping off at the pharmacy to pick up a prescription. Otherwise it was damp. And dull.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 06 May, 2011, 10:46:59 am
Averaged 29.2kmh over 35.2km, despite legs feeling a bit sore. Usually I set a PB in the week following an audax ("post-audax hero legs"), but not this week. After my recent 200km, I averaged 30.3kmh over the same route.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 06 May, 2011, 10:48:10 am
Quote from: Wendy on 06 May, 2011, 09:00:16 am
Yeah, it's not great, but if you full-screen at 1080 you can see the last two times the audi hit the mondeo and barged it up onto the pavement.

I can make out the ramming clearly enough, but the sequence of people out of cars is a little indistinct.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 06 May, 2011, 10:52:46 am
Quote from: DrMekon on 06 May, 2011, 10:46:59 am
Averaged 29.2kmh over 35.2km, despite legs feeling a bit sore. Usually I set a PB in the week following an audax ("post-audax hero legs"), but not this week. After my recent 200km, I averaged 30.3kmh over the same route.

I think 300km is the point where it all starts to get quite taxing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 06 May, 2011, 10:53:24 am
Quote from: Wendy on 06 May, 2011, 09:00:16 am
Yeah, it's not great, but if you full-screen at 1080 you can see the last two times the audi hit the mondeo and barged it up onto the pavement.

Jeeze, when he spun round after you said it was on camera, I thought he was coming after you!

Audi driver is clearly a nutter, whatever happened before.

I did laugh at myself though, as when I saw the hoodie, I though "yeah, drugs" despite being a skinheaded hoodie wearer myself.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 06 May, 2011, 10:38:59 pm
Tonight I had the first (almost) incident free commute since before Easter! It feels good.
The sheer muppetry has been getting me down. A week of carefree cycling in France just before the break certainly didn't prepare me for the onslaught I faced in south London while everyone was supposedly on holiday or celebrating or holed up praying for the revolution. Since the expected resumption of hostilities on Tuesday, I realise that the roads were actually quieter than usual over Easter and the bank holidays. I've been commuting generally three to five hours outside rush-hour and the levels of traffic and lunacy have been staggering.

The one thing that prevents me from calling tonight's journey completely incident free? Following a bus up Denmark Hill at some distance I look back to see if there is space to move into the outside lane. I do so as I know it's approaching a stop. There is a silver Golf following a short distance behind so I maintain my position in the bus lane. The bus indicates that it is pulling into the bus stop and I start to slow to allow the Golf past before pulling out. The Golf though doesn't pass, I look around again and the driver of the golf has come to almost a stop and flashes me through. I wave my thanks and overtake the bus and then get another opportunity to thank the driver as I return to the bus lane. It's great to have a positive interaction on the road with someone that isn't an utter prick. I can almost put the Aston Martin driver I met this afternoon out of my mind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 07 May, 2011, 07:05:27 am
Funnily enough I have just seen the Aston Martin vid, what a vile human being.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 08 May, 2011, 10:03:18 pm
Quote from: Gandalf on 07 May, 2011, 07:05:27 am
Funnily enough I have just seen the Aston Martin vid, what a vile human being.

Quality, a motorist having a go at a cyclist for obeying a red light.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 09 May, 2011, 09:23:48 am
Quote from: spindrift on 08 May, 2011, 10:03:18 pm
Quote from: Gandalf on 07 May, 2011, 07:05:27 am
Funnily enough I have just seen the Aston Martin vid, what a vile human being.

Quality, a motorist having a go at a cyclist for obeying a red light.

Is there a link to this?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 09 May, 2011, 09:35:20 am
Sure, Ben's channel is bbborp, and a direct link to the video is here:


    YouTube
        - AM06 VNT Prick in an Aston Martin
   (http://youtu.be/7rJZYCnXuMU)

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 May, 2011, 11:21:08 am
Nice ride in.  First half with Butterfly, as is becoming usual now.  She was pretty fast this morning, which was nice. :)

Things are changing.  We counted eight cyclists (including us) riding between Carshalton & Mitcham Common.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 09 May, 2011, 12:07:38 pm
My ride in was utterly blighted by traffic this morning. In part because I have to come in to the back of the work site, rather than the front due to roadworks in Exhibition Road. Unfortunately, in it's wisdom, the council has roadworks going on in Queensgate which runs parallel to Exhibition Road as well, so I'm stuck in traffic whichever way I go.
This morning also seemed to have massive amounts of school run traffic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tourist Tony on 09 May, 2011, 12:09:11 pm
Coming onto the lower forecourt at work two lanes merge, and a separate lane forms to lead off left for the up ramp (closed) and the off-duty taxi park. I carried straight one as the two lanes merged to receive a 'beep' from behind me. The car in question then overtook me in the left filter lane before cutting back in front of me from my left, at a queue of standing traffic.
I asked:
Q What was that for?
A You were dithering about in front of me.
Q I was riding correctly.
A You didn't signal
Q I was going straight ahead, that's why! Why did you undertake me?
A You were dithering. We are in a hurry.
Q Have you read the Highway Code?

Window wound up. Funnily enough, I then 'dithered' into the airport rather quicker than she did.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sigod on 09 May, 2011, 12:53:17 pm
Bah! My right knee is causing me no end of problems at the moment. Something seems to be moving about down there and making the few intitial downstrokes when setting off from traffic lights a bit of a task and a half. A visit to the doctors is on the cards I think before things get any worse.

I saw a couple having a row at the side of the road this morning and as I passed by, I heard the woman say:

'If you'd returned it to where it bloody belonged in the first place, none of this would have happened!'

That thought is going to keep me up at nights.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 09 May, 2011, 01:41:43 pm
Quote from: alexb on 09 May, 2011, 12:07:38 pm
My ride in was utterly blighted by traffic this morning. In part because I have to come in to the back of the work site, rather than the front due to roadworks in Exhibition Road. Unfortunately, in it's wisdom, the council has roadworks going on in Queensgate which runs parallel to Exhibition Road as well, so I'm stuck in traffic whichever way I go.
This morning also seemed to have massive amounts of school run traffic.

I haven't used Exhibition Road for something like 12 months, and doubt I'll be using it again in much less time than that.

I've found that sometimes the Harrington Road / Queensgate junction can be faster, the temporary traffic lights which they had there for a while certainly changed faster, so you spent less time twiddling your thumbs waiting for them to change.

Of course, I deliberately travel later, both morning and evening, to miss the majority of the traffic.

It's been nice and sunny for the commute recently. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 09 May, 2011, 01:48:06 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 09 May, 2011, 09:35:20 am
Sure, Ben's channel is bbborp, and a direct link to the video is here:


    YouTube
        - AM06 VNT Prick in an Aston Martin
   (http://youtu.be/7rJZYCnXuMU)


"do you know what amber means"
"Yeah, go through if it's safe"

Cyclist didn't pick him up on that. Totally effing wrong,  pillock (the aston martin driver).

[edited to make it clear I meant the driver was a pillock, not the cyclist]
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 09 May, 2011, 02:02:39 pm
Sorry, arguing with pillocks is hard.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 09 May, 2011, 09:50:45 pm
Quote from: benborp on 09 May, 2011, 02:02:39 pm
Sorry, arguing with pillocks is hard.

You done good  ;D.  The guy's obviously got a bit of an inferiority complex.  I mean - a 5 year old aston martin?  Loser!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 09 May, 2011, 09:56:08 pm
I had this yesterday:


    YouTube
        - HD08DLX Amber light means hit the throttle?
   (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xR0idZX-dgI)

And also an email from Roadsafe suggesting that they intend to prosecute this driver:
Driver runs red light (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7X3Usj7tZ0Q)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 09 May, 2011, 10:15:47 pm
A suicide rabbit tried to commit hari kari in my front wheel this morning.  Luckily it didn't and I hadn't left the village so it wouldn't have been far to return home and get the other bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 09 May, 2011, 11:17:42 pm
Quote from: benborp on 09 May, 2011, 02:02:39 pm
Sorry, arguing with pillocks is hard.

I'd have just ignored him. Chances are he'd honk his horn even more and people would start staring at him and wondering why he was sitting in his car, honking his horn for no apparrent reason.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 May, 2011, 08:18:43 am
Well handled, though.  He was a complete arse, and now there is a video on the interwebs with three pages of comments on how much of an arse he is.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 May, 2011, 09:01:51 am
Last night, at Oval, I saw a woman whose mudguard had collapsed, throwing her off, and resulting in a completely pringled front wheel.  There wasn't anything I could practically do to help her, so wished her luck in her hope of catching a bus (I advised her to call it 'luggage' :-\ ).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 May, 2011, 09:08:49 am
This morning, I was up early because Butterfly needed to be in work early, so I managed to add a bit of a loop.  I rode across Clapham Common and over the river, turning right (yes, that has got a bit trickier, hasn't it?), and zooming along Embankment at speeds approaching 40kph with an absurd freak tailwind, allowing me ot overtake swathes of regular commuters.  There's much more to do on CS8, but the length of solid white line delineating it is welcome to any regular users of CS7.

Through Parliament Square, and back across the river (I like the next bit of Embankment, but it's a faff getting back up to the bridges), then through Waterloo at a clip and to Borough, where the Southbound High St is closed.  Never mind, I rode through the back streets of Southwark, and did four laps of a local square to add an extra gratuitous kilometre just for fun.

Sunshine, tailwind, too early for the motor traffic to have snarled themselves up much - what's not to like.

I did spare a thought for those who commute West into London, and do feel sorry for the slog they'd have had today :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: darkpoint on 10 May, 2011, 09:25:05 am
An excellently sunny morning to be out on a bike today.   I took over from Clarions puncture repair duties on CS7 and helped a lass at Clapham Common.

I then rolled along for a bit chatting to another newbie and advising them not to go down the inside of buses, and to generally take up more space as the curb is not your friend.

It was just a nice day for not taking the ride too seriously and taking some time to enjoy it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 10 May, 2011, 09:31:54 am
Averaged 19.8mph between brentwood and Aldwych tube station on my extended commute route  :smug:, London traffic then killed it to 18.5mph, I think it was the B-twin lycra shoe covers then gave me that extra aero-dynamic edge  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 May, 2011, 09:34:07 am
Good work, darkpoint!  I didn't ride CS7 beyond Balham this morning (nor will do for the next two days).  I note your comment that I have thus far been invisible.  I suspect this has been because I have been travelling through slightly later for the last couple of weeks.  And now I'm riding in much earlier.

I'm not deliberately avoiding you - honest!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: darkpoint on 10 May, 2011, 10:08:08 am
Quote from: clarion on 10 May, 2011, 09:34:07 am
Good work, darkpoint!  I didn't ride CS7 beyond Balham this morning (nor will do for the next two days).  I note your comment that I have thus far been invisible.  I suspect this has been because I have been travelling through slightly later for the last couple of weeks.  And now I'm riding in much earlier.

I'm not deliberately avoiding you - honest!

That's ok,  I believe you. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 10 May, 2011, 10:58:50 am
Was I going to be particularly slow after the spinning class last night?  No!

No indeed, 47.2kph on Elizabeth Way overtaking the slow-moving traffic.  :smug:

That on a 67" gear, so ~150rpm on the flat.

Did I mention I'm knackered?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Honest John on 10 May, 2011, 02:28:36 pm
Well, first there was the oncoming numpty in London numpty commuter uniform (yellow jacket, helmet with visor, bike with flat bars) who decided to overtake someone else on the cycle path through Tooting Common and forced me onto the grass.

Then there was the mad bint in a RAV4 who decided all that stuff about driving on the left and giving way to oncoming traffic if you're on the wrong side of the road because you're passing parked vehicles on your left didn't apply to her.

Added to which, the headwind.

Not the best trip i've had.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sigod on 10 May, 2011, 04:59:31 pm
Quote from: Honest John on 10 May, 2011, 02:28:36 pm
Added to which, the headwind.

Not the best trip i've had.
At least you have the wind at your back for the return trip.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 10 May, 2011, 05:07:03 pm
Quote from: sigod on 10 May, 2011, 04:59:31 pm
Quote from: Honest John on 10 May, 2011, 02:28:36 pm
Added to which, the headwind.

Not the best trip i've had.
At least you have the wind at your back for the return trip.

Well you've jinxed that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 10 May, 2011, 05:10:56 pm
I followed a car that was wavering all over a road like a drunk bumble bee that had just been thwacked with a tennis racquet. I'd like to blame it on the fact that he was of the established fraternity of the private hire vehicle (with the roundel of doom to prove it), but the source of his erratic driving seemed primarily to be that he was hanging out of the door trying to observe the underside of his vehicle. It wasn't a quick glance, he was still doing it several seconds later as he disappeared under the tram/train bridge.

I really think that sometimes commonsense should organise an intervention.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 10 May, 2011, 05:19:31 pm
Quote from: ian on 10 May, 2011, 05:10:56 pm

I really think that sometimes commonsense should organise an intervention.

A quick google for "man runs himself over" gets enough results to back you up, there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 10 May, 2011, 06:31:18 pm
Absolute mobile phone fest today on the way home, sadly only this one came out clearly enough for Roadsafe & Employers.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d26gZOjRMGw (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d26gZOjRMGw)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Honest John on 10 May, 2011, 07:16:04 pm
Quote from: simonp on 10 May, 2011, 05:07:03 pm
Quote from: sigod on 10 May, 2011, 04:59:31 pm
Quote from: Honest John on 10 May, 2011, 02:28:36 pm
Added to which, the headwind.

Not the best trip i've had.
At least you have the wind at your back for the return trip.

Well you've jinxed that.


Correct.

City pollution inversion strikes again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: welshwheels on 10 May, 2011, 07:35:01 pm
bloody wind again !!!!! How come when i have a strong headwind it knock's me for six but when i turn the tailwind does not feel so strong  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 10 May, 2011, 07:42:08 pm
In which we learn that not all cyclists are lovely people.

Riding home today, uphill, approaching a cross roads. Mine is the major road. Parked cars and traffic means things are more or less ground to a halt.

From the left I spy a bloke, early twenties at a guess, on an MTB, approaching on the minor road. I notice that he doesn't look right (towards me), only left.  He pulls straight out across my path without looking, causing me to brake sharper than usual. I shout out, in a mixture of surprise and comment on his poor observation skills, "Oi! twat!".

At this he slams on his anchors, half way across the junction and wheels round: "Watch your fucking mouth, cunt!". And punches me, bam, in the side.

I was more amazed than hurt or upset. I'm a grown up and I don't really do the violence thing, but for a split second I considered giving chase (he'd shot off sharpish) and laying about him with my Topeak.

Afterwards I was a bit shaky, but thought calming thoughts and enjoyed the rest of the ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 May, 2011, 08:28:29 pm
I had a lovely ride home, slightly marred by a woman in a Fiat Punto (if I'd managed to remember the reg, she'd have been Roadsafed) who pulled across into the cycle lane I was in, and shortly after ran a red light (tbh, it was a close call on the amber for me, and she was a couple of car lengths behind me at that point.  Never once looked left or right.  But I left her well behind me and carried on. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 10 May, 2011, 08:37:35 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 10 May, 2011, 07:42:08 pm
Afterwards I was a bit shaky, but thought calming thoughts and enjoyed the rest of the ride.

:(  That sounds deeply unpleasant.  Have some CAKE and spare zen (not that it sounds like you have a short supply) from over here.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 10 May, 2011, 08:38:52 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 10 May, 2011, 07:42:08 pm

Afterwards I was a bit shaky, but thought calming thoughts and enjoyed the rest of the ride.

Hey, Tim, hope you've had a chance to recover your poise and emotional equilibrium.  That kind of encounter is always stressful.


Have taken to cycling home without changing into lycra; the evenings are currently cool enough to make it possible, even if I do still find myself indulging in SCR.  There's a really nice coffee shop recently opened up under a railway station just down the road and it makes a great place to end my commute.   Very surprised such a nice place has opened in such a deadbeat little area, but making the most of it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Honest John on 10 May, 2011, 10:16:45 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 10 May, 2011, 07:42:08 pm

I was more amazed than hurt or upset.

Yep. Me too when forced off the cycle path by an oncoming nodder today.

At least there are some clues as to which cyclists are @rseholes.

Quote
Well, first there was the oncoming numpty in London numpty commuter uniform (yellow jacket, helmet with visor, bike with flat bars) who decided to overtake someone else on the cycle path through Tooting Common and forced me onto the grass.

I wouldn't mind that much if I worked and commuted regularly. But why do these people choose to be on the road on the first day this week some mad fool has decided to supplement my pension by employing me?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 10 May, 2011, 10:22:18 pm
Quote from: welshwheels on 10 May, 2011, 07:35:01 pm
bloody wind again !!!!! How come when i have a strong headwind it knock's me for six but when i turn the tailwind does not feel so strong  ???

Thats a square law that is - drag is proportional to the square of the air speed. so EG if wind speed = riding speed, then air speed is double with a headwind, and hence 4 times the drag. If the same wind is behind you, you are only saving 1 times the drag.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 10 May, 2011, 10:25:12 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 10 May, 2011, 07:42:08 pm

At this he slams on his anchors, half way across the junction and wheels round: "Watch your fucking mouth, cunt!". And punches me, bam, in the side.



Utterly gobsmacked to read this, Tim :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 May, 2011, 10:34:49 pm
Nasty stuff.  I'm saddened that cyclists can behave like that, but there's no niceness test before buying a bike.  Hope you get over it quickly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 10 May, 2011, 11:16:52 pm
20.1mph average on the way home tonight.
A banana and espresso before I left must be the right combination.
My legs were ace.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 10 May, 2011, 11:42:38 pm
As usual, I've ridden through the Brum rush  ::-) hour this week, and nothing much has happened.  'cept me totally controlling the situation.

Just thought I'd post that to restore a little balance.

Quote from: Grub on 10 May, 2011, 11:16:52 pm
My legs were ace.

I've always thought that, matey.  ;D Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr.  :-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 10 May, 2011, 11:48:23 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 10 May, 2011, 07:42:08 pm
In which we learn that not all cyclists are lovely people.

Riding home today, uphill, approaching a cross roads. Mine is the major road. Parked cars and traffic means things are more or less ground to a halt.

From the left I spy a bloke, early twenties at a guess, on an MTB, approaching on the minor road. I notice that he doesn't look right (towards me), only left.  He pulls straight out across my path without looking, causing me to brake sharper than usual. I shout out, in a mixture of surprise and comment on his poor observation skills, "Oi! twat!".

At this he slams on his anchors, half way across the junction and wheels round: "Watch your fucking mouth, cunt!". And punches me, bam, in the side.

I was more amazed than hurt or upset. I'm a grown up and I don't really do the violence thing, but for a split second I considered giving chase (he'd shot off sharpish) and laying about him with my Topeak.

Afterwards I was a bit shaky, but thought calming thoughts and enjoyed the rest of the ride.

The trouble with dwelling on trouser coughs like that cyclist is that you're letting them live in your head rent-free. Best to rise above it and console yourself with the thought their life must be pretty crappy. Forget it, let it wash over you, it's not worth it.


Or


monitor that road for a few weeks. See if you can trace the cyclist and find out where he lives. Buy the house next door and over a period of years maintain cordial relations but at the same time wage a secret war of attrition. Break into his house and leave a severed pig's head on his toilet seat, the maw smeared with scarlet lipstick. Order taxis, pizzas etc at 3am, smear dog poo on his door and brake fluid on his car, all the usual stuff. Finally, install CCTV,  dress a monkey up as a nazi and you as your punchy neighbour, beat the monkey to death with sticks and fire, turn the footage over to Johnny Law and mention "years of hell". Job's a good 'un.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 11 May, 2011, 07:24:38 am
Quote from: Basil on 10 May, 2011, 11:42:38 pm
As usual, I've ridden through the Brum rush  ::-) hour this week, and nothing much has happened.  'cept me totally controlling the situation.

Just thought I'd post that to restore a little balance.

Quote from: Grub on 10 May, 2011, 11:16:52 pm
My legs were ace.

I've always thought that, matey.  ;D Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr.  :-*

 ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 11 May, 2011, 08:20:19 am
Quote from: spindrift on 10 May, 2011, 11:48:23 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 10 May, 2011, 07:42:08 pm
In which we learn that not all cyclists are lovely people.

Riding home today, uphill, approaching a cross roads. Mine is the major road. Parked cars and traffic means things are more or less ground to a halt.

From the left I spy a bloke, early twenties at a guess, on an MTB, approaching on the minor road. I notice that he doesn't look right (towards me), only left.  He pulls straight out across my path without looking, causing me to brake sharper than usual. I shout out, in a mixture of surprise and comment on his poor observation skills, "Oi! twat!".

At this he slams on his anchors, half way across the junction and wheels round: "Watch your fucking mouth, cunt!". And punches me, bam, in the side.

I was more amazed than hurt or upset. I'm a grown up and I don't really do the violence thing, but for a split second I considered giving chase (he'd shot off sharpish) and laying about him with my Topeak.

Afterwards I was a bit shaky, but thought calming thoughts and enjoyed the rest of the ride.

The trouble with dwelling on trouser coughs like that cyclist is that you're letting them live in your head rent-free. Best to rise above it and console yourself with the thought their life must be pretty crappy. Forget it, let it wash over you, it's not worth it.


Or


monitor that road for a few weeks. See if you can trace the cyclist and find out where he lives. Buy the house next door and over a period of years maintain cordial relations but at the same time wage a secret war of attrition. Break into his house and leave a severed pig's head on his toilet seat, the maw smeared with scarlet lipstick. Order taxis, pizzas etc at 3am, smear dog poo on his door and brake fluid on his car, all the usual stuff. Finally, install CCTV,  dress a monkey up as a nazi and you as your punchy neighbour, beat the monkey to death with sticks and fire, turn the footage over to Johnny Law and mention "years of hell". Job's a good 'un.

Thank goodness this would be nothing out of the ordinary
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 11 May, 2011, 08:25:56 am
Had a brill commute last night!!  Really lovely ride in superb evening weather.  My highlight on the way home was a Porsche driver.  He was driving beautifully, and I first came across him at HPC, and we kept pogoing past each other until New Cross, where I finally left him behind in the traffic.  He was quite surprised and gave me a big thumbs up.  Chuffed!

Saw far too many drivers on the phone sadly, and had one risky bus overtake.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 May, 2011, 09:02:05 am
Interesting ride this morning.  We both didn't move on the 5am alarm :-[ so we were in a bit of a rush getting sorted & out.

Left a bit under 15mins late on intended.  So, despite both carrying panniers of dirty laundry (don't ask :hand: ), we needed to get a step on anyway.  I led out for most of the way, and Butterfly was unusually holding on at 30kph.  Even up through Tooting, where I had expected to slow right down, we kept going through some remarkable empty streets.  As it happens, an idiot cyclist had irked Butterfly by nearly running into her at Broadway, so she pushed the pace up the hill to drop him.

We got to her work in time, at a respectable average of 23.5kph. :thumbsup:

From there, I went down to Battersea Bridge, then the long way along the Embankment, up Whitehall and right along the Strand, keeping going all the way to London Bridge, then down Tooley St (Borough High St being closed) and through the back.  Four laps of the local square for the silly kilometre again, then a wee loop to complete 31km before getting to work, so I could be sure of 50km today.

Despite the traffic in Central London, I managed to slightly improve the average speed, and, though there are a lot of places where the prudent thing seems to be to sit behind a bus/truck/whatever till the motor traffic moves on, it was a fun ride.

I ought to point out that this morning there were several riders on Embankment faster than me.  At Chelsea Bridge, I was passed by four guys really going for it, and I couldn't hold on to them.  But the main thing to note was the variety of riders, and that there was a significant number even so early on. :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 11 May, 2011, 09:14:57 am
Whee, SCR!  Multiple temporary traffic lights on my usual route caused me to divert and turn left off the top of Chelsea Bridge, then stick to the red route all the way round to Holland Park roundabout.  Busy traffic but many geared scalps to be taken.  Think I may alternate this with my regular route once the roadworks are done.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 11 May, 2011, 09:19:26 am
Quote from: Adrian on 11 May, 2011, 08:20:19 am
Quote from: spindrift on 10 May, 2011, 11:48:23 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 10 May, 2011, 07:42:08 pm
In which we learn that not all cyclists are lovely people.

Riding home today, uphill, approaching a cross roads. Mine is the major road. Parked cars and traffic means things are more or less ground to a halt.

From the left I spy a bloke, early twenties at a guess, on an MTB, approaching on the minor road. I notice that he doesn't look right (towards me), only left.  He pulls straight out across my path without looking, causing me to brake sharper than usual. I shout out, in a mixture of surprise and comment on his poor observation skills, "Oi! twat!".

At this he slams on his anchors, half way across the junction and wheels round: "Watch your fucking mouth, cunt!". And punches me, bam, in the side.

I was more amazed than hurt or upset. I'm a grown up and I don't really do the violence thing, but for a split second I considered giving chase (he'd shot off sharpish) and laying about him with my Topeak.

Afterwards I was a bit shaky, but thought calming thoughts and enjoyed the rest of the ride.

The trouble with dwelling on trouser coughs like that cyclist is that you're letting them live in your head rent-free. Best to rise above it and console yourself with the thought their life must be pretty crappy. Forget it, let it wash over you, it's not worth it.


Or


monitor that road for a few weeks. See if you can trace the cyclist and find out where he lives. Buy the house next door and over a period of years maintain cordial relations but at the same time wage a secret war of attrition. Break into his house and leave a severed pig's head on his toilet seat, the maw smeared with scarlet lipstick. Order taxis, pizzas etc at 3am, smear dog poo on his door and brake fluid on his car, all the usual stuff. Finally, install CCTV,  dress a monkey up as a nazi and you as your punchy neighbour, beat the monkey to death with sticks and fire, turn the footage over to Johnny Law and mention "years of hell". Job's a good 'un.

Thank goodness this would be nothing out of the ordinary

Sincere apologies, I've massively over estimated your sense of humour. Don't kill any monkeys Tim.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 11 May, 2011, 09:50:50 am
Finally back on the bike after too long not commuting (been using Tube+BorisBike).  This was also the first commute with my new, wider, bars (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=40605.msg934684#msg934684).

Getting the bike down the stairs and out of the flat was 'fun', as the stairwell is roughly only 2cm wider than the bars!  As for steering, that too was an adventure.  Must get them cut down ASAP.  Perhaps I'll drop off the bike at the LBS tomorrow.

Thankfully my fellow commuters didn't cause me any grief this morning.  It made being back on the bike that much better. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 May, 2011, 09:52:59 am
Get that hacksaw out lad! ;D

Glad you're properly back awheel for the commute :thumbsup:

Turns out my concern for you cycling into the wind I was benefitting from yesterday was completely unfounded.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 11 May, 2011, 10:02:48 am
Bumped into a lithe young chap that bore more than a passing resemblance to Regulator. Oh wait, it was Regulator.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 11 May, 2011, 02:41:47 pm
Forgot to say that yesterday also took me into London Town Divine. Had a site to visit in Holland Park, so leapt on a train to Victoria, then up through Belgravia to Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens.  Got over taken as I crossed Belgrave Square by a bloke on a Boris Bike giving it absolute beans - 20mph I reckon.

Through Hyde Park was a delight, so many cyclists just doing normal cycling, no fancy clothes no nothing.

Coming back I went through South Ken, into the park at the memorial (looked for Bent Mikey but no luck), then down Constitution Hill, which was somewhat busier than on an FNRTTC, then round in front of the palace and back to the station.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 11 May, 2011, 02:44:47 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 11 May, 2011, 02:41:47 pm
Forgot to say that yesterday also took me into London Town Divine. Had a site to visit in Holland Park, so leapt on a train to Victoria, then up through Belgravia to Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens.  Got over taken as I crossed Belgrave Square by a bloke on a Boris Bike giving it absolute beans - 20mph I reckon.

Through Hyde Park was a delight, so many cyclists just doing normal cycling, no fancy clothes no nothing.

Coming back I went through South Ken, into the park at the memorial (looked for Bent Mikey but no luck), then down Constitution Hill, which was somewhat busier than on an FNRTTC, then round in front of the palace and back to the station.

Ooh, sorry I missed you, was there from 18.30 till dark.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 11 May, 2011, 02:55:54 pm
Potential incident this morning on Southwark Street this morning fortunately avoided...

Some wannabe racer was weaving through traffic like he was in a real hurry to meet his maker and started filtering up the inside of a lorry, closely followed by a suited Boris Biker. I was just behind on my Brompton and decided I would rather pass the lorry on the outside. Which turned out to be the correct decision, because at precisely the same moment, the lorry started indicating left...

I don't think the lorry driver could be held at fault. He indicated a reasonable amount of time before he started turning and the two cyclists were almost certainly in his blind spot.

Of course, boy racer doesn't see it that way - as he emerges in front of the lorry, he starts gesticulating and shouting at the driver. I can understand that the near miss might have left him feeling a bit emotional but after all, it was his decision to filter up the inside.

And there's certainly no excuse for what he did next, namely ride through a red light on a pedestrian crossing, forcing two peds to leap out of the way.  ::-)

I caught up with him at the next set of lights, of course.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 11 May, 2011, 04:57:01 pm
Quote from: Gandalf on 10 May, 2011, 06:31:18 pm
Absolute mobile phone fest today on the way home, sadly only this one came out clearly enough for Roadsafe & Employers.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d26gZOjRMGw (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d26gZOjRMGw)

Had a reply from the company today.  If they have taken the stated action then a positive result IMHO.

Dear Sir,

Firstly, I would like to sincerely apologise for the illegal and dangerous incident you witnessed yesterday.

We take road safety extremely seriously. With this in mind, the employee in question has been called to our head office this morning for a meeting with our Managing Director. We have stressed the importance of driving safely and abiding by the law, and also reiterated our company policy. Disciplinary action has been taken, and the employee will be monitored from now on. Further to this, our managing director is looking into supplying all Smith & Byford drivers with hands free kits to ensure incidents of this nature will not re-occur.

Thank you very much for bringing this to our attention and being so vigilant, and once again I apologise on behalf of our employee for his bad judgement.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 11 May, 2011, 04:59:58 pm
I reckon the driver was Smith & the M.D. is Byford
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 11 May, 2011, 05:10:39 pm
Hmmm. If you can face it, it might be worth pointing Smith & Byford to the research (Mal Volio can oblige) which shows that hands-free phone kits are as dangerous as hand held devices.

If it's legal compliance they are after, then no problems with their stated action.

If it's increased safety, .....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 11 May, 2011, 09:18:21 pm
I saw a yellowhammer today.  I have seen what I thought was this species several times for the last 3 weeks but I never saw enough of the bird to confirm it.  Tonight I did.  I then searched the RSPB site and found a drive to improve the habitat on arable land to support 6 big species in Wessex but with a knock on to other birds - one of which was the yellowhammer.

I had previously only ever seen this bird in York whilst with The Desperate Housewives coming home from the Easter Arrow.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 11 May, 2011, 10:40:17 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 11 May, 2011, 09:19:26 am
Quote from: Adrian on 11 May, 2011, 08:20:19 am
Quote from: spindrift on 10 May, 2011, 11:48:23 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 10 May, 2011, 07:42:08 pm
In which we learn that not all cyclists are lovely people.

Riding home today, uphill, approaching a cross roads. Mine is the major road. Parked cars and traffic means things are more or less ground to a halt.

From the left I spy a bloke, early twenties at a guess, on an MTB, approaching on the minor road. I notice that he doesn't look right (towards me), only left.  He pulls straight out across my path without looking, causing me to brake sharper than usual. I shout out, in a mixture of surprise and comment on his poor observation skills, "Oi! twat!".

At this he slams on his anchors, half way across the junction and wheels round: "Watch your fucking mouth, cunt!". And punches me, bam, in the side.

I was more amazed than hurt or upset. I'm a grown up and I don't really do the violence thing, but for a split second I considered giving chase (he'd shot off sharpish) and laying about him with my Topeak.

Afterwards I was a bit shaky, but thought calming thoughts and enjoyed the rest of the ride.

The trouble with dwelling on trouser coughs like that cyclist is that you're letting them live in your head rent-free. Best to rise above it and console yourself with the thought their life must be pretty crappy. Forget it, let it wash over you, it's not worth it.


Or


monitor that road for a few weeks. See if you can trace the cyclist and find out where he lives. Buy the house next door and over a period of years maintain cordial relations but at the same time wage a secret war of attrition. Break into his house and leave a severed pig's head on his toilet seat, the maw smeared with scarlet lipstick. Order taxis, pizzas etc at 3am, smear dog poo on his door and brake fluid on his car, all the usual stuff. Finally, install CCTV,  dress a monkey up as a nazi and you as your punchy neighbour, beat the monkey to death with sticks and fire, turn the footage over to Johnny Law and mention "years of hell". Job's a good 'un.

Thank goodness this would be nothing out of the ordinary

Sincere apologies, I've massively over estimated your sense of humour. Don't kill any monkeys Tim.

I've got a sense of humour?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Honest John on 11 May, 2011, 11:27:52 pm
This getting silly. Another bad morning today.

There I was, minding my own business, carefully crossing the pavement cycle gap, with the lights (cute little green bicycles - you can see them on Streetmap) in my favour, no traffic or pedestrians in sight, from Hazelbourne Road into Cavendish Road (http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=Cavendish+Road,+Wandsworth&aq=0&sll=53.800651,-4.064941&sspn=12.478806,34.013672&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Cavendish+Rd,+Greater+London,+United+Kingdom&t=h&ll=51.451034,-0.142648&spn=0.000802,0.002076&z=19&layer=c&cbll=51.451034,-0.142648&panoid=vgftm9ksqp3A0hCoJkpUPw&cbp=12,108.46,,1,0) in London SW.

Along comes Mr Numpty, on his full-suss mountainbike with knobblies (just what you need for the trackless wastes of Balham) north along the pavement on Cavendish Road, against the lights and at stupid speed. Sees me, jams on his front brake, does an Imperial Crowner and then attacks me, pushing me over while I was sitting stationary on my bike simply because I stopped his BSO falling onto me by pushing it away.

Three or four other cyclists (one of whom claimed to be ex-Bill - he seemed a sensible type) stop and have a go at Mr Numpty and he scuttles off.

"He'll be under an HGV soon," says the ex-Bill bloke.

Little damage, just a bit of a pain in the arse which has now just about subsided and a broken lever on my shoes, which can be replaced at Pearson's in Sutton (founded 1860) according to Specialized.

I was moving awkwardlyand feeling shaken until after lunch.

There seems to be a trend for some cyclists (usually unstylish ones with cr@p bikes) to behave like the worst sort of motorists (see Tim Hall's post and mine yesterday).

I'm getting the train to work tomorrow (mainly because an unexpected flush of work means I can take Mrs Honest out to eat in the evening).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 11 May, 2011, 11:30:20 pm
Quote from: Honest John on 11 May, 2011, 11:27:52 pm

There seems to be a trend for some cyclists (usually unstylish ones with cr@p bikes) to behave like the worst sort of motorists (see Tim Hall's post and mine yesterday).

I'm getting the train to work tomorrow (mainly because an unexpected flush of work means I can take Mrs Honest out to eat in the evening).

Don't let him bring you down. And have a lovely meal with Mrs. Honest tomorrow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Honest John on 11 May, 2011, 11:38:53 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 11 May, 2011, 11:30:20 pm
Quote from: Honest John on 11 May, 2011, 11:27:52 pm

There seems to be a trend for some cyclists (usually unstylish ones with cr@p bikes) to behave like the worst sort of motorists (see Tim Hall's post and mine yesterday).

I'm getting the train to work tomorrow (mainly because an unexpected flush of work means I can take Mrs Honest out to eat in the evening).

Don't let him bring you down. And have a lovely meal with Mrs. Honest tomorrow.

If I'm in a really good mood (and I should be, since I'll be spending the day cataloguing pictures of cows and tractors for my gorgeous ex-colleague the Picture Editor and engaging in GNB* with the younger members of the staff. And it's money for old rope) dinner will be at Nancy Lam (http://www.nancylam.com/nancy/frameset.htm)'s, where we've been eating when finances allow almost since she opened.

*Good-natured banter. Refer to The Beidebecke Affair (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Beiderbecke_Affair).

"We are on the brink of a new era, if only..."
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 12 May, 2011, 12:03:45 am
Super day today, and I think I have moved on a little from Team Slow. On my way home tonight, I happened across a young black guy on a Bianchi, looked like a regular rider. Didn't think much to it until we met again at Stratford (and I think he was a little surprised to see me, too. I know I was.) and he said hello. Foot and knee still not 100% so I may take the tube again tomorrow, discretion being at least a little bit of being sensible.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 12 May, 2011, 12:04:03 am
Sorry to hear of these happenings, Tim Hall and Honest John  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 12 May, 2011, 06:21:17 am
This is so bloody unpleasant, it seems that total gits are on the rise.

Perhaps they are opting for a different form of transport to confuse us.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 12 May, 2011, 06:56:18 am
Quote from: Honest John on 11 May, 2011, 11:38:53 pm
"We are on the brink of a new era, if only..."

 ;D

Thoughts of Average-sized Jill Swinburne always make the world seem a better place.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Honest John on 12 May, 2011, 08:00:04 am
Quote from: citoyen on 12 May, 2011, 06:56:18 am
Quote from: Honest John on 11 May, 2011, 11:38:53 pm
"We are on the brink of a new era, if only..."

 ;D

Thoughts of Average-sized Jill Swinburne always make the world seem a better place.

d.

Oh, yes. I shall kindle my desires, like Mr Carter. But, fortunately, I have no need for a hedge-trimmer (I find attacking foliage with an old tenon-saw and a pair of pliers more satisfying).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Honest John on 12 May, 2011, 08:06:33 am
Quote from: Gandalf on 12 May, 2011, 06:21:17 am
This is so bloody unpleasant, it seems that total gits are on the rise.

Perhaps they are opting for a different form of transport to confuse us.

Indeed. I have a lot of sympathy with peds who whinge about pavement cyclists.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 12 May, 2011, 08:23:31 am
Shame, Honest John, poor you.  You've had a hard run of it lately.  Must say I'm feeling a bit down about my own commute yesterday, just so much grumpiness, impatience and aggression, and unlike you I let it get to me and didn't cycle up to my own standards on a few bits either.  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 May, 2011, 08:54:38 am
Quote from: Honest John on 11 May, 2011, 11:27:52 pm
This getting silly.

It certainly is.  That's a ridiculous sequence of events.

Quote
There seems to be a trend for some cyclists (usually unstylish ones with cr@p bikes) to behave like the worst sort of motorists (see Tim Hall's post and mine yesterday).

That's because a lot of them are the worst sort of motorist.  And the worst sort of train/tube/bus passenger, too.  And the worst sort of pedestrian...

Quote
I was moving awkwardly and feeling shaken until after lunch.

I wonder if these people ever realise the consequences of their actions.  They may well not even care - after all, if you gave a stuff about other people, surely you wouldn't act like a complete tosspot in the first place, but just some of them may act differently if they knew what they had really done.

Quote
I'm getting the train to work tomorrow (mainly because an unexpected flush of work means I can take Mrs Honest out to eat in the evening).

Hope that's a lovely evening unspoiled by numpties or thoughts thereof.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 12 May, 2011, 09:05:55 am
Seen on the way home last night; motorbike on side, engine cracked. Police car missing front bumper. 6 police cars in attendance and westbound carriageway of A64 closed. Grim sight.

Near home, I passed a taxi with the logo "S.H.A.T. Travel" on the side.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 12 May, 2011, 09:09:32 am
Oh yes, got overtaken by a kid on a scooter on a tight corner with road narrowings so close that his head was almost above my feet.  All whilst towing the littlest monkey in his Burley D'Lite.   :hand:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 May, 2011, 09:09:57 am
By contrast, Butterfly had another early start.  We got up a bit more promptly this morning, so we didn't need to rush.  But we did move again, clocking up an aerage of 23.3kph by the time she got to work - barely slower than yesterday, and probably more than accounted for by taking it easier up Upper Tooting Road. ;D

From there, I cut across Clapham Common and followed my usual commute to work, which I reached within the hour, which is my normal benchmark, despite having covered a couple of extra kilometres.




But I didn't stop there.  I headed out through the backstreets of Southwark to Bermondsey and along the river to Rotherhithe.  The sections of shared use path were a bit slow, but it was pretty quiet, and the road tended to make up for it.  Riding in the sunshine was great fun, even if the cobbled sections tend to rattle your eyeballs out.

34.9km before work.  I will be riding to a meeting at lunchtime, and then home tonight.  It will be a 60km day by the end. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 12 May, 2011, 09:53:16 am
Ham, good to read you're back on the bike.  :thumbsup:


Last night and this morning were nice commutes.  Yes, there a few instances of less than exemplary driving, but nothing life immediately threatening.

Also, I've decide I will NOT be cutting down the huge replacement bars on my commute.   [pauses for effect]   Took the bike to the LBS this morning for a trim... and spotted they have in stock bars like those that snapped (but without the built-in fail points).  So I asked them to put one behind the counter for me to pick up this evening and I'll do a bar swap when I get home.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 May, 2011, 09:56:18 am
What are you going to use the wiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiide ones for?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 12 May, 2011, 10:01:47 am
The plan is to flog 'em.

If I can get what I'm paying for the straight ones I'll be happy.  I could have just cut them down, but the curves mean I lose real estate in comparison to straight bars.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 May, 2011, 10:05:28 am
You should get a fair bit selling such a length of metal for scrap ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 12 May, 2011, 10:51:49 am
When I got my bike computer out of my bag this morning, the display was set to show max speed, for which it had recorded 135km/h.

Either I went faster than I realised on my last ride or it was in the same pocket of my bag as something magnetic.

Annoyingly, it only occurred to me after I'd reset it that I should have taken a picture.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 12 May, 2011, 10:59:55 am
Quote from: citoyen on 12 May, 2011, 10:51:49 am
When I got my bike computer out of my bag this morning, the display was set to show max speed, for which it had recorded 135km/h.




mrs.jogler once enjoyed a similar statistic when scrolling thru at a pub stop.
It was programmed for a 26" wheel but was mounted on a 20" wheeled bike ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Honest John on 12 May, 2011, 11:12:53 am
Thanks for your thoughts, all.

The most annoying thing is that I retired six months ago and have been doing no commuting (and not enough cycling) until now, when I've been persuaded out of my new career (as housewife and Mrs Honest's PA, style guru, chef, entertainment officer and IT consultant) to freelance for the firm I used to work for.

There really seems to be a change in the attitude of some people on the road, especially commuting cyclists. This is not the velorution I hoped for.

For instance, this morning, while sitting upstairs on the bus, I saw a numpty on fixed calmly ride through a red light in front of several tons of moving No 196, causing the bus to brake sharply. I know who I'd offer to be witness for if it had all gone pear-shaped, and it wouldn't have been the cyclist.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Honest John on 12 May, 2011, 11:14:30 am
Quote from: citoyen on 12 May, 2011, 10:51:49 am
When I got my bike computer out of my bag this morning, the display was set to show max speed, for which it had recorded 135km/h.

Either I went faster than I realised on my last ride or it was in the same pocket of my bag as something magnetic.

Annoyingly, it only occurred to me after I'd reset it that I should have taken a picture.

d.


I used to have a speedo that was affected by heavy rain.

Allegedly, i once did 179mph while riding down the hill opposite Thorp Cloud and 279kph while getting very wet near Boulogne.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 12 May, 2011, 11:16:32 am
Quote from: citoyen on 12 May, 2011, 10:51:49 am

Either I went faster than I realised on my last ride or it was in the same pocket of my bag as something magnetic.



'Been on a train or near any overhead power cables perchance?  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 12 May, 2011, 11:29:43 am
Quote from: Wendy on 12 May, 2011, 09:09:32 am
Oh yes, got overtaken by a kid on a scooter on a tight corner with road narrowings so close that his head was almost above my feet.  All whilst towing the littlest monkey in his Burley D'Lite.   :hand:

Close overtake. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uSiCfvaAmSg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 12 May, 2011, 11:40:28 am
Quote from: Jurek on 12 May, 2011, 11:16:32 am
'Been on a train or near any overhead power cables perchance?  ;)

I think I know the answer: I have a bottle opener that I keep in my bag, "just in case". It has a magnet on the back. I'd put the computer in the same pocket of my bag as the bottle opener...

jogler - I have the same problem with this computer. It has two wheel settings, one of which is calibrated to my 700C road bike, the other to my Brompton. Only the other day, I was rolling along on my road bike at what I thought was a decent pace, wondering why on earth my speedo was showing just 16km/h. It took longer than I care to admit for it to dawn on me...

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 12 May, 2011, 11:45:20 am
Quote from: citoyen on 12 May, 2011, 11:40:28 am
. It took longer than I care to admit for it to dawn on me...

d.


I too had just such an I.Q. ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 12 May, 2011, 11:46:03 am
Overtook an electric bike in Trull.  But it was in the 20mph zone and I was exceeding 20mph. Running a bit late
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 12 May, 2011, 11:47:16 am
Quote from: citoyen on 12 May, 2011, 11:40:28 am
I think I know the answer: I have a bottle opener that I keep in my bag, "just in case". It has a magnet on the back. I'd put the computer in the same pocket of my bag as the bottle opener...
Rather than the magnet, it's more likely that the computer contacts were being shorted out by the bottle opener (or something else). In most computers, the magnet on the wheel closes a reed switch in the "sensor" on the forks, which then shorts out the two contacts on the computer itself. The computer doesn't normally care about magnetic fields (unless they are stupidly strong).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 12 May, 2011, 01:19:31 pm
My wireless computer registers state of excitement of up to 120mph when the light next to it is on flashing mode and is sometimes similarly stimulated by a constant beam when the batteries are new.  The computer and light are clearly very much in love, so I do without speed/distance stats through the winter so they can stay together.

Very chatty on CS7 this morning.  Hello to man-on-tourer-still-running-his-winter-tyres who I met in Tooting.  You were a blur of mudguards and subdued frame colours.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 12 May, 2011, 01:42:31 pm
Hmm - my wireless computer doubles up as a BMW proximity detector. The  max speed flicks to 99kph if one doesn't allow me much room as they overtake. I'm not that good at recognising vehicles from behind but it always tends to be BMWs that have that effect. Why?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 12 May, 2011, 01:57:55 pm
Could it be the HIDs?  Numerous people here have reported bike lights affecting wireless.  Might be the arc from the HID emitting rf
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Rimnod on 12 May, 2011, 02:09:13 pm
<rant>
Got scalped by Trek man again this morning; always half way up the hill.  

One day my son I am going to frighten you and wipe that self-satisfying grin off your spotty face by jumping on, sitting on and calmly leave you behind.  Never see you on the flat and I know you sit off and always attack me on the hill.  I know you take an alternative route to me once over the hill, if I go one way you go the other.

The fact I’m twice your age, twice your weight and ride a bike that weights the same as a NHS bed is irrelevant.  I WILL make it happen

</rant over and relax>
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 12 May, 2011, 02:16:01 pm
Quote from: jogler on 12 May, 2011, 10:59:55 am
mrs.jogler once enjoyed a similar statistic when scrolling thru at a pub stop.
It was programmed for a 26" wheel but was mounted on a 20" wheeled bike ;D

That happened to me once.  The computer has a utterly pointless[1] "second bike" facility, and I'd neglected to set the two wheel sizes the same.  It must have got frobbed between bikes while in my pocket.  I became suspicious when it recorded a moving average of ~16mph on a WARTY.



[1] Because a second mount and wiring harness costs as much as a whole new computer.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 May, 2011, 09:16:29 pm
I'd had a great ride in, as I said, early so pretty quiet.  And a trip out to a meeting and the bank through the back roads of Southwark.  And I was going to leave early (because I'd started early), but there was lots of Stuff to do.

So I left work with the prospect of battling with the massed motorised eejits of South London on the way home :(

Or... I could try to ride backstreets as far as possible.  Hey - it worked!  Away from the bloody cars (well, relatively), it was good fun and I managed a decent average speed.  Sunshine is a wonderful thing.

So 60km or so today - a good ride interrupted by a heap of boring work :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 12 May, 2011, 09:41:45 pm
Various factors have been conspiring to make life a little tough for me recently and after reaching a crisis point I've had to concentrate on quality of life rather than work obligations. Naturally enough, I've felt a little out of sorts on the bike over the last few months and I've had little opportunity to ride other than to commute. I've been disappointed that my fitness and speed haven't returned after the winter, especially as my general health has been improving over the last year. I've also been slightly concerned that I've struggled to put on weight - normally I bulk up a bit approaching the summer. I've felt that I've had to be quite careful not to push too hard.
However, yesterday, after ten days of three home cooked meals a day, nine sensible working days and a day off I became aware of a comfortable, familiar sensation of heaviness in my thighs. I tried them out on the way in to work this afternoon - 58.0kph. I tried them out on the way home - 58.5kph. 50kph on the flat comfortably, heart rate 10bpm lower than has recently been the case - 6-10kph faster on the hills and an ability to put in sprints that I'd forgotten I once had.

Sorry if I'm crowing, but I'm so happy I've got my legs back.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mr magnolia on 12 May, 2011, 10:38:00 pm
Quote from: Kim on 12 May, 2011, 02:16:01 pm


That happened to me once.  The computer has a utterly pointless[1] "second bike" facility, and I'd neglected to set the two wheel sizes the same.  It must have got frobbed between bikes while in my pocket.  I became suspicious when it recorded a moving average of ~16mph on a WARTY.



.]

back in the day, I had one of these and had the thing set to allow me to read miles for 'at home' stuff and kilometres for holidays.  Used to get me confused no end when I forgot which was which!

kilometres only just now makes life easier - even in the wind like todays,
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 12 May, 2011, 10:43:12 pm
Quote from: mr magnolia on 12 May, 2011, 10:38:00 pm
back in the day, I had one of these and had the thing set to allow me to read miles for 'at home' stuff and kilometres for holidays.  Used to get me confused no end when I forgot which was which!

That's not a bad use for it, or at least it would be if it weren't for the fact that on this one you can switch it between the two units properly with minimal fuss and it will (I think - I haven't actually tested it) do the right thing with the odometer.  And it provides a display of what unit it's using anyway.

I run with the computer in miles, the GPS in kilometres and my brain in firkin-furlong-fortnight.  It seems to work quite well, with only a handful of Mars Climate Orbiter style cockups on a given ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 13 May, 2011, 08:14:02 am
Misty and cool this AM.  So misty that water was dripping off me and the bike by the time I got to work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 13 May, 2011, 09:39:42 am
Setting off this morning I very quickly noticed that the left grip was slipping (almost spinning!).  I stopped to tighten it, only to find it couldn't be done up any tighter.  Before I leave work today I'll need to add some tape to the bar to 'fatten' it up and re-fit the grip.

As for the commute itself, see the Rant thread ...
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 13 May, 2011, 11:20:33 am
TCR day again today.  Flying to work into a headwind.  18mph average for the 24 mile commute to my old office.  Can't wait to rip it up on the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 13 May, 2011, 07:30:32 pm
Nice ride in. Find out I'm not called - i.e. there's no work. Nice road home. Well worth it.

Mind you, this was the first time in well over a year that I'd cycled home during rush hour from this particular part of London and I had a suspicion confirmed. The CS7 junction design between Southwark Bridge Road and Marshalsea Road is a left hookers paradise.

Google Maps Southwark Bridge Rd/Marshalsea Rd (http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?hl=en&ie=UTF8&ll=51.502993,-0.095929&spn=0.0011,0.00284&t=k&z=19)

Heading south bikes generally use the left hand lane for both straight ahead and turning left. The majority of left turning motor vehicles, spooked by the blue paint across the left hand lane, use the right hand lane to turn left. :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Honest John on 13 May, 2011, 11:19:26 pm
Quote from: benborp on 13 May, 2011, 07:30:32 pm
Nice ride in. Find out I'm not called - i.e. there's no work. Nice road home. Well worth it.

Mind you, this was the first time in well over a year that I'd cycled home during rush hour from this particular part of London and I had a suspicion confirmed. The CS7 junction design between Southwark Bridge Road and Marshalsea Road is a left hookers paradise.

Google Maps Southwark Bridge Rd/Marshalsea Rd (http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?hl=en&ie=UTF8&ll=51.502993,-0.095929&spn=0.0011,0.00284&t=k&z=19)

Heading south bikes generally use the left hand lane for both straight ahead and turning left. The majority of left turning motor vehicles, spooked by the blue paint across the left hand lane, use the right hand lane to turn left. :facepalm:

A classic example of why "cycle facilities" are, at best, a waste of time and money and, at worst, fatal.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 14 May, 2011, 08:15:41 am
Had to take the shortest, fastest, most dangerous route home as I was required as a taxi driver for Son1 and 2.
Third roundabout after leaving work, I'm in the inside lane at 24 mph ( slight tailwind but I was pushing it ) and Landrover with trailer full of soil comes abreast in second lane.  Roundabout clear - I keep pushing it.  Landrover gets passed me and rather than stay in his lane suddenly does a manoeuvre to return to my lane.  Only the vehicle was passed me, not the tandem trailer.  It came in on me at an alarming rate - so much so that I let out an involuntary "FARKING CUNT" at the top of my voice.  It was warm and sunny so he must have heard me or at worst seen my flashing Exposure MaX2 joystick - so he swerves away again.
Feeling quite annoyed at this and making a note of the landscaping company name on the side I was pleased to see the lady sat in the estate vehicle on the other side of the roundabout and in clear view of all this and probably clear hearing - smiling in a sort of awkward way ( I'm guessing because of my colourful use of the English language ).
I gave her a sort of embarrassed grin and powered on.

Then numpty bollocks in the little black car that obviously feels less of a man because he can't afford a big car - right near home - impatient twat.  I expect to see him wrapped around a tree soon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 May, 2011, 07:11:47 pm
I used to go through that Southwark CS7 junction every week.  I've now changed my choice of cafe to avoid it.  It is the site of the last time I was hit then assaulted by a cabbie.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 16 May, 2011, 12:34:41 am
Sunday morning commute, empty enough roads before the garden centres open. Had to keep my wits about me though as the few drivers that were about were absolutely Huhning around. 70mph+ off the Elephant and Castle.
And I've got to remember that in south London, at weekends, traffic lights are only advisory - if you're driving a cab - or a BMW.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 16 May, 2011, 09:11:26 am
I will not mind if the westerly this morning keeps up until tonight.

That is all.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 May, 2011, 09:36:37 am
Quote from: benborp on 16 May, 2011, 12:34:41 am
...absolutely Huhning around...

;D  Good one (allegedly) ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 May, 2011, 09:43:25 am
I have no idea what was going on this morning, but the A3 was jammed with motor vehicles from Clapham to at least Elephant & Castle.

I hear or see at least one blue light vehicle on every ride, but this morning, there were ambulances and Police vehicles aplenty, and not just heading for one incident, as we had simultaneous Police blue lights heading in opposite directions. 

My best guess is that there was an incident of some kind just North of Stockwell, and something else going on near Newington, but it's terribly hard to say when it gets so messed up.

I had a decent ride in with Butterfly - we went early so she could get to the sorting office to pick up a small signed-for packet - on which we went round a bit of a loop through the backstreets as she had a bit of time to spare.

I cut through Clapham Common to get back to the main drag, where I met the metal nonsense that is the motorised commute.

Lots of places where it was impossible - or stupid - to filter, which made progress very stop-start, but I still enjoyed riding.  I think, given how my legs were feeeling early on, that, had it been open roads, I might not have been able to give it my best anyway. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 16 May, 2011, 09:44:13 am
Wind (lots of it)
Rain (bits of it)
Gears (only one of 'em)
15mph average  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mobbsy on 16 May, 2011, 10:00:18 am
Headwind all the way, what's the betting that it swing round this afternoon for the return leg? Still nice to be pedalling again after pulling my subscapularis at Centre Parcs 6 weeks ago.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 16 May, 2011, 10:07:10 am
Saw a dead rabbit being eaten by a crow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smurphboy on 16 May, 2011, 10:15:39 am
I was really quick today - I think a few days off the bike helped. Although having to commute to London on the train didn't do my stress levels much good.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 16 May, 2011, 10:43:41 am
Quote from: Ham on 16 May, 2011, 09:11:26 am
I will not mind if the westerly this morning keeps up until tonight.
That is all.
+1
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Honest John on 16 May, 2011, 12:23:02 pm
Quote from: clarion on 16 May, 2011, 09:43:25 am
I have no idea what was going on this morning, but the A3 was jammed with motor vehicles from Clapham to at least Elephant & Castle.

It was weird the other side of Stockwell, too.

There was an empty 196 bus on Wandsworth Rd with Plods talking to the driver, traffic was jammed all the way over Lavender Hill and, as you say, there were blue-light users haring about all over the place.

Bus 196 (Norwood Junction-Stockwell-Vauxhall-Elephant) didn't seem to be running at all, according to the countdown on the bus stops (which was a pity since I wanted to catch one and had to visit the hell that is Clapham Junction station instead of the peace and quiet of Herne Hill).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Honest John on 16 May, 2011, 12:30:55 pm
Quote from: clarion on 16 May, 2011, 09:43:25 am
I have no idea what was going on this morning, but the A3 was jammed with motor vehicles from Clapham to at least Elephant & Castle.

From the Beeb wesite:

A3 London - A3 Clapham Common South Side in Clapham closed and queueing traffic southbound between Clapham Common and the A24 Clapham Common South Side junction, because of an accident involving a lorry and a cyclist. Diversion in operation.

Not again, surely?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 May, 2011, 12:39:58 pm
Oh no. :(

But that doesn't sound like what was going on earlier, which mainly affected northbound traffic.  Clapham Common Southside was open when I rode along it this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sigod on 16 May, 2011, 01:06:00 pm
I can attest to that too. God I hope the cyclist involved is okay.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 16 May, 2011, 01:31:09 pm
Why why why do they do it? Not that it is by default the cyclists fault, but I see so many people filtering the inside of lorries and buses, it is unfortunately more of a surprise that there are not more incidents.

Last week, coming through Oxford Street junction westbound, the road takes a kink by the lights. A girl on a pretty city-BSO got suckered in by a couple of messenger types who shot through the inside of a lorry before the lights changed. She went to start through after the lights changed, and it was a VERY close run thing, fortunately her speed was just slow enough to keep her away from when she would have been hurt badly. As I passed her, I did say "PLEASE don't go on the inside of lorries", I wonder if she will remember next time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 May, 2011, 03:42:25 pm
Could be something to do with bomb threats (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-13412871) >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 16 May, 2011, 06:18:43 pm
I'm really enjoying the ride down the newly surfaced Rye Lane. It's so smooth and bump free that I can hardly believe I'm in London as I ride down, especially at 6.30am when it's empty. I still avoid it on the commute home, though. Just too jam packed with pedestrians and buses.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 May, 2011, 06:55:19 pm
Wind.

OK, so it was a crosswind.

But it was breathtaking.

And not in a good way. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 16 May, 2011, 07:32:05 pm
Quote from: Ham on 16 May, 2011, 01:31:09 pm
Why why why do they do it? Not that it is by default the cyclists fault, but I see so many people filtering the inside of lorries and buses, it is unfortunately more of a surprise that there are not more incidents.

Last week, coming through Oxford Street junction westbound, the road takes a kink by the lights. A girl on a pretty city-BSO got suckered in by a couple of messenger types who shot through the inside of a lorry before the lights changed. She went to start through after the lights changed, and it was a VERY close run thing, fortunately her speed was just slow enough to keep her away from when she would have been hurt badly. As I passed her, I did say "PLEASE don't go on the inside of lorries", I wonder if she will remember next time.

As I sat chewing the diesel fumes from a left indicating articulated lorry on Southwark Street this morning, a chap slides straight into the narrow gap between the lorry and the kerb. The lights have already turned green. I thought that he was about leave his mortal coil behind, but the driver either saw him or abandoned the turn as there wasn't enough room to fit his lorry on around the corner (roadworks on Southwark Bridge Rd). Whatever, he slid through unscathed.

Now, I'm generally of the opinion that common sense can't be taught, and sometimes Darwin sadly must prevail, but I couldn't help but say something at the next set of lights. It goes without saying that he had only stopped because he couldn't get passed a scooter rider. Anyway, I politely indicated that '[that] was a bit dangerous, the lorry was turning and probably couldn't see you on the inside." He looked at me for a moment and told me to fuck off.

Probably no point reminding him that his rear QR was dangling wide open. As a plus, his back brake was in pieces too. I suspect he'll be telling St Peter to fuck off shortly, too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 16 May, 2011, 07:41:11 pm
Today appears to be lemming day.  Two suicidal peds stepping out without looking on a 5 mile trip, plus a narrowly-avoided dooring (in the sense that they flung the extra-wide door of a small hatchback all the way open without looking, rather than I was riding particularly close to parked cars) on the way back.

Also: wind!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 16 May, 2011, 08:11:03 pm
Frustrating day at work was immensely improved by a strong tail wind ride home on the TCR.  Managed an average for the 10.4 miles of 21.2 mph  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 16 May, 2011, 08:17:16 pm
<Fred Astaire>Heaven, I'm in heaven....</fred>

Just getting ready for my ride home, which is normally a grueling cross town slog, I bump into another guy at the bike rack, who I met in the morning and so I know is going back to Camden. I'd decided to do the north london wiggle, (harrow road, swiss cottage camden town, dalston, hackney etc) so I said I was going that way. "yeah, it's great along the canal" he says. "What canal?" quoth I. Turns out that there is a great and fast canal run from Acton to Camden, we did it in about 25 minutes-ish and it was beautiful. Inspired, I carried on with a spin in my wheels and got home in 1:20, the same time as it takes me to get in in the mornings.

As perfect as it gets in London, loved every inch.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 May, 2011, 08:31:22 pm
Amen Corner.  Parked on a yellow line just after the junction, blocking the end of the mandatory cycle lane and the entrance to the bus lane, a driver had stopped, lights flashing, to go to the cash machine.

Then he got back into his car, and drove the 200metres to Tooting Police Station, where he turned into the car park.

Didn't I mention it was a Police car, the lights flashing were red, and the man was in uniform?

Oh, well it was, they were, and he was.

I shall Roadsafe him, and see how far I get.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 16 May, 2011, 08:41:43 pm
Abuse of power.  That is not smart.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 May, 2011, 08:45:27 pm
It's very not smart, and I imagine it gets you even crosser than it does me, because it makes your job harder if there are prats like that in the uniform.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 16 May, 2011, 08:49:35 pm
There are idiots everywhere C, in my job and all walks of life.  When one is meant to set a good example, instances like the one you witnessed are quite annoying.  Bread and butter stuff really - not hard - DON'T DO IT - if they were mine - I'd make them do foot patrol for a month.  :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 May, 2011, 08:50:43 pm
;D I like paying my taxes when it goes to the wages of people like you :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 17 May, 2011, 07:42:55 am
Heron being chased by a crow/rook.  Now that's not something you see very often.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 17 May, 2011, 09:33:12 am
I did a bit of sneaky off-roading across the back side of Tooting Bec today. Perfect weather for it!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Access Legal Guy on 17 May, 2011, 09:35:24 am

walked in today with ipod - horrible
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 17 May, 2011, 09:58:53 am
Quote from: Grub on 16 May, 2011, 08:49:35 pm
There are idiots everywhere C, in my job and all walks of life.  When one is meant to set a good example, instances like the one you witnessed are quite annoying.  Bread and butter stuff really - not hard - DON'T DO IT - if they were mine - I'd make them do foot patrol for a month.  :P

BASICS!

If you would/ should 'have a word' when you see something being done, FFS don't do it yourself- especially when in uniform.

That was what my Tutor taught me and what I tell every newbie that I get to deal with.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 17 May, 2011, 10:56:22 am
Lots of low speed filtering this morning. More roadworks, more jams. When the traffic did clear - SMIDSY, SMIDSY, cretinous close pass by a motorcyclist and SMIDSY, but I've been quite phlegmatic about it all.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 17 May, 2011, 11:34:09 am
Quote from: benborp on 17 May, 2011, 10:56:22 am
Lots of low speed filtering this morning. More roadworks, more jams. When the traffic did clear - SMIDSY, SMIDSY, cretinous close pass by a motorcyclist and SMIDSY, but I've been quite phlegmatic about it all.

PLEASE please please don't spit at anyone, it only makes things worse, and it helps spread disease
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 17 May, 2011, 12:00:14 pm
Quote from: Ham on 17 May, 2011, 11:34:09 am
Quote from: benborp on 17 May, 2011, 10:56:22 am
Lots of low speed filtering this morning. More roadworks, more jams. When the traffic did clear - SMIDSY, SMIDSY, cretinous close pass by a motorcyclist and SMIDSY, but I've been quite phlegmatic about it all.

PLEASE please please don't spit at anyone, it only makes things worse, and it helps spread disease

LOL, have you met Ben and seen how nice and polite he is?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 17 May, 2011, 01:59:45 pm
Hope for the best, expectorate the worst
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 17 May, 2011, 03:21:15 pm
I was on fire this morning. Like a messenger on a mission, traffic jamming down Victoria Street and round a gridlocked Parliament Square with my l33t snake-hipped Brompton-handling skillz. Not big. Not clever. Don't try this at home, kids. But... maaaaaan, what a rush!

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 17 May, 2011, 07:40:07 pm
Took the long way home. Redhill - Outwood, past the mill, down hill, through Horne, past the house with the railway in the garden, then off down my favourite lane towards The Hedgehog. 

It's a quiet backwater of a road, single track.  A small lorry came slowly towards me. The driver leant out of his window and flagged me down.

"Scuse me" he said "We've been sent to pick up a dead horse from a ditch. Have you seen one?"

I told him no, but then again I hadn't been looking for one.


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 17 May, 2011, 08:14:07 pm
my commute today, involved taking the 2 mini-me's to school and nursery in the car with Mrs AndyF, We came across an older cyclist on a touring bike, when Mrs Andyf said 'I hate cyclists they take up all the road'  :o :o :o When we got home after scrubing her mouth out with soap and a couple of hours in the time-out area, she promised that such heresy would never be repeated   :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 17 May, 2011, 10:59:46 pm
A pointless trip to work since it started to spit and most of the group bailed out of the lesson, and a pointless overtake:


    YouTube
        - A pointless overtake...
   (http://youtu.be/BXTac9fnqP0)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 17 May, 2011, 11:17:19 pm
Prompted by your "Thought you were having a kip" vid, I too like to chat to people on the road, say good morning, just smile, most people are happy to swap a few words.

However, the prissy bloke in the city atop what looked like an airnimal rhino only heavier with deeper section, painted in camouflage green, totally ignored me when I asked him if he was sure they hadn't sold him a tank by mistake. Can't think why.

(Airnimal White Rhino specification - www.foldingbikes.co.uk (http://www.foldingbikes.co.uk/airnimal_rhino_white.htm))
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 17 May, 2011, 11:21:19 pm
LOL!  I'd have laughed with you, I'm usually ready to laugh at myself.

Chatting to people is just great, it's one of the great joys of cycle commuting.  I had a brill time chatting with two young men in a rather stylish white VW golf (I think), teasing them about getting beaten by someone old enough to be their Dad on a bicycle.  The one's face when he asked why I had cameras, and I answered to film naughty drivers....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 18 May, 2011, 07:41:54 am
Yesterday morning a pair of pedestrians stepped out from between stationary vehicles into the bus lane causing a cyclist to brake sharply. This in turn caused the cyclist following behind to brake even more sharply, to the extent that he went over the bars onto the road. The strange thing is that out of the four people involved, as he got up he chose to shout at the other cyclist. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 May, 2011, 09:07:40 am
Dozy drivers, pedestrians and cyclists abound today.  It's what my dad calls the Dudley Moon, I suppose.

Butterfly had to shriek at a driver who was rolling across Upper Tooting Road with no regard for anythign going on around her.  A woman in Balham stepped into the road without looking at all and very nearly got a loaded Galaxy behind the knee.   Plenty of others. 

And lots and lots of people in boxes going absolutely nowhere at all.  Queues in Hackbridge, Mitcham, Tooting, Balham, Clapham, Stockwell, Newington.  Curiously, not at Oval.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 18 May, 2011, 09:26:13 am
When are they going to finish the repainting works for CS8??????

The traffic was backed up all the way into Cedars Road this morning, it's been like it every day for weeks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 18 May, 2011, 12:35:22 pm
I must of been cycling hard this morning because even the sky was sweating.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 18 May, 2011, 07:26:19 pm
Okay ride in, I was tired.  Great ride home as I'd had too much caffeine.   ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 May, 2011, 08:17:41 pm
Headwind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 18 May, 2011, 09:02:25 pm
Murky.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 18 May, 2011, 09:26:11 pm
Cool.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 18 May, 2011, 09:56:37 pm
Driving  :'(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RJ on 18 May, 2011, 09:57:57 pm
Quote from: clarion on 18 May, 2011, 08:17:41 pm
Headwind.

Morning.  Tailwind home (mostly).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 18 May, 2011, 10:40:36 pm
clammy
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 19 May, 2011, 12:05:41 am
Bus.

I might try walking tomorrow.  It’ll be faster.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 19 May, 2011, 12:16:29 am
Quote from: simonp on 19 May, 2011, 12:05:41 am
Bus.

I might try walking tomorrow.  It’ll be faster.

You should get a unicycle, then you could rest your arm and exercise your legs  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: YahudaMoon on 19 May, 2011, 12:43:19 am
Quote from: simonp on 19 May, 2011, 12:05:41 am
Bus.

I might try walking tomorrow.  It’ll be faster.


Bus ! whats a hardcore cyclist like yaself doing on buses ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 19 May, 2011, 12:48:51 am
Quote from: YahudaMoon on 19 May, 2011, 12:43:19 am
Quote from: simonp on 19 May, 2011, 12:05:41 am
Bus.

I might try walking tomorrow.  It’ll be faster.


Bus ! whats a hardcore cyclist like yaself doing on buses ?

Attempting to avoid turning this: Wrist Intersection Syndrome (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=47473.0) into a ruined season.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: YahudaMoon on 19 May, 2011, 01:09:53 am
@ simonp. Oh dear. Hope it gets good soon. Stay off the 600km lol.
Im sure you'll be good in a few week.

 I fell off my bike again last week, got a sore shoulder/chest/arm. Hope to be good for a 250km + on Sunday ? Killed me today pulling two children about in a trailer with loads of luggage, the 6 year old should be cycling with the 9 year old and not in the trailer with the 1 year old.

We found a old cat basket on the Sustrains Fallowfield loop during a p*****re repair and decided to strap it to the pannier rack. I quiet like it.  So my skip bike shopper looks like a proper shopper now and is pretty much theft proof with the huge basket attached + the children loved putting all there teddy bears and cuddly toys in there for the ride :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 19 May, 2011, 06:27:28 am
Yesterday, a very low flying Chinook passed behind me, tracking alongside a ridge. Very cool, and unexpected around here.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 19 May, 2011, 07:02:38 am
Frost. Wrong gloves. Ouch.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 19 May, 2011, 07:05:41 am
Clear blue sky today.  Sun sun sun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 May, 2011, 09:15:31 am
Last night, grinding home into a wet wind, I decided it would be a good idea to get the fast bike out for today.

So this morning, I was riding the sugar pill.  Placebo-ing my way into work.  Well, I managed a creditable 24kph, and I feel I could probably have done more (could certainly have done more if the motor traffic hadn't been so damn silly), but there was a slight tailwind, and, necessarily, I wasn't carrying so much*

Despite the single-sided pedals, which caught me out a couple of times, and the gears which I can't really cross over at all, and have levers which ease themselves loose enough to change up under pressure at least twice during an hour's ride (though not (quite) today), I got back into the swing of it quite well.

I managed the whole ride on the big** ring, including Balham Hill, which I cleared almost from a standing start at 25kph.

I need to sort out a couple of niggles.  The saddle is inexplicably low.  I don't think anyone else rode it (though I may have lent it to TGL for a spin), and the rear tyre seems to be losing air :(  I'd better check that latter at lunchtime.

And the potholed roads of South London don't make for a comfortable ride on 23s.  My bum's OK, but I do feel jarred, and my wrist has noticed the ride, though it isn't painful yet.

Still, for all it may be all in my mind, I managed to keep pace with all but the very fastest of fast boys, and noted at one point that I had the only metal*** bike in the bunch I was riding with.

The Woodrup is a joy to ride.  I forget how much fun it is, which is why the Brighton Run with the old cars was such fun last year (even though we had to peel off early with great regret) as i rose up the hills with less effort than anticipated.  And, when I dismounted and leaned it against the wall upstairs in the spare office, I stepped back and just smiled.  So beautiful. :)


* I still do carry a toolkit, FAK, pump, spare tube, extra layer, waterproof, Abus lock...

** fcvo 'big'.  It's 48.  Coincidentally, the same size as the big ring on my Orbit and my fixed.

*** 531c, as it happens. Magic tubing. :)

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 19 May, 2011, 10:11:13 am
MrsH's car had to go in for some work today, so I dropped it off and rode home for a virtual commute to my kitchen office. First ride since the BCM, and what a glorious day!

Bright and sunny, but just the right chill in the air to keep my temperature perfect in shorts and short sleeve jersey. The bike was running sweetly following a post-ride fettling session, the lanes I took were almost entirely devoid of traffic.

25km ride, averaged 29.9km/h including some lumpy bits. Lovely start to the day  :thumbsup: if you ignore the driving bit at the start
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 19 May, 2011, 10:52:43 pm
Traffic just seems to be building and building through the week. I'm coming across jams where I've never met them before. It was quite impressive though to see more than twenty buses nose to tail on the Walworth Road this evening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Speshact on 20 May, 2011, 07:34:42 am
On the commute yesterday:
1. I had to stand for ten minutes to watch four marching bands rehearsing for Trooping the Colour, go past on Birdcage Walk before I could cross to walk through St James' Park and remount. The bands were great, the park was beautiful. I always have ten minutes in hand for this kind of obstruction. Otherwise I'd have to battle Whitehall and Traf Sq instead.
2. I stopped to inflate my rear tyre on the pavement of a fairly quiet Westminter road on the way home. A motorist reversed into me, only gently nudging me thankfully. The van driver watching shouted at the driver 'You nearly hit a scooter back there, now you've hit someone on the pavement - learn to drive'. THe driver didn't seem keen to hang around and apologise.
3. I passed a bike locked to a sheffield stand, with the keys left in the lock  Hope it was still there when the owner returned.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 May, 2011, 09:18:24 am
2. :o  Glad you're OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 May, 2011, 10:54:07 am
Quote from: clarion on 16 May, 2011, 08:31:22 pm
Amen Corner.  Parked on a yellow line just after the junction, blocking the end of the mandatory cycle lane and the entrance to the bus lane, a driver had stopped, lights flashing, to go to the cash machine.

Then he got back into his car, and drove the 200metres to Tooting Police Station, where he turned into the car park.

Didn't I mention it was a Police car, the lights flashing were red, and the man was in uniform?

Oh, well it was, they were, and he was.

I shall Roadsafe him, and see how far I get.

Quote from: Roadsafe
Dear <Clarion>, Further to my last email, this matter has been passed to ChiefSuperintendent David Musker, the Borough Commander of WandsworthBorough. Tooting Police Station is part of his command. Regards, Roadsafe London

Well, let's see, eh?  My money's on either no action at all, or else there were no vehicles in the area at the time. </cynicalaboutthesoddinMet>
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 20 May, 2011, 11:18:01 am
Quote from: clarion on 20 May, 2011, 10:54:07 am
<snip>
Well, let's see, eh?  My money's on either no action at all, or else there were no vehicles in the area at the time. </cynicalaboutthesoddinMet>
If Met vehicles are INCA (vehicle tracking) enabled, and I'd expect something fitted with lights and sirens to be, then the, "no vehicles in the area" argument will be difficult to sustain.  One of our friendly YACF neighbourhood Bobbies may be able to say a bit more on that aspect.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 May, 2011, 11:24:03 am
I have had that lie before (though not from the Met, I admit).  I was almost knocked off my bike by a speeding Royal Mail artic on Scott Hall Road one night.  I rang up immediately, and was told categorically that there were no vehicles there.  There have been a couple of other occasions.

And, even if they have the evidence that the car was there, should they deny it, what could I do?  FoI them, FFS?  Not sure that they would be happy about disclosing vehicle movements.  It'd be blocked.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 20 May, 2011, 11:24:53 am
Riding my carbon audax bike to work today as I'm traveling straight to an event.

What a loverly morning, a bit blowey but the sun on my legs is delightful

Marred only by loads of broken glass.  There was a windscreens worth in one place on Blackwater Lane, on a descent so I had to stop after it and check the tyres.  Then several bits and pieces after that
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 20 May, 2011, 12:56:12 pm
Drivers blocking junctions and roundabouts was something of a theme, today.  I'd be happier if all junctions were treated as box junctions, as is the case in most Euro countries.

Another theme, one that's going to run all Summer, was the re-emergence of MAMILs on expensive road bikes who just don't know how to ride them.  At the junction of Beaufort Street and Fulham Road, an expensively clad/mounted chap who has been left in the dust at the two previous junctions nevertheless elbows past to put himself at the front.  When the lights change, he drifts towards the narrow one-lane northern exit, trying to find the right gear, blocking almost everybody.  Not blocking me, though, and he's most miffed when I slot past and shoot off.  Learn to ride your bloody bike, mate.  Not that you actually go very fast when you do find the right gear.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 20 May, 2011, 12:58:21 pm
Bus.  Thinking about putting some aero bars on my pomp.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 20 May, 2011, 01:00:23 pm
Luckily I was not riding too fast.  I stuck my right arm out to indicate where I was going and slowly pulled out to the middle of the road to make my turn.  As I arrived at the turning point a driver overtook me. If I was riding at my normal speed I would have been across his path.

 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 20 May, 2011, 01:18:39 pm
Did a 42km loop, and was averaging ~29kph, so admittedly, I was in go-mode. I was stopped at a t-junction, and an MPV driver approaching on my right slowed and indicated to turn left (into the road I was in), I looked left, and it was clear, so started to pull out without checking right again properly. The MPV driver had changed his mind and wanted to go straight on, and had had to brake sharply.

Clearly, I should have checked again. He gestured that he was of the view that I somewhat frantically pleasure myself, whilst doing quite a good impression of the vinegar strokes. Suitably chastened, I made a fresh resolution to double check properly in future.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 20 May, 2011, 02:52:53 pm
It's bizarre how the character of the ride in can change day by day. It felt like a bank holiday morning as I set off. Hardly any traffic and what there was was blatting about - this state of affairs was explained by the absence of the temporary traffic lights at the top of Penge High St. Things returned to normal or a little worse through Dulwich though the number of motorcyclists was unusually high. I find the combination of large numbers of speed cushions and large numbers of motorcyclists uncomfortable. The cushions drastically cut down the space two wheelers are happy to use and with so many people desperate to be two feet further down the road than the next person there will invariably be someone intent on using the piece of road currently occupied by cyclist. Another unpleasant aspect of being surrounded by swarms of motorcyclists this morning was the routine at traffic lights. On a couple of occasions, approaching a light changing to red I had time to double check for close following traffic before slowing, only to suddenly have two or three motorbikes accelerating past - and not necessarily on my right, although that is the arm that I picked up the impression of a moped mirror on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 20 May, 2011, 02:56:34 pm
Quote from: clarion on 20 May, 2011, 11:24:03 am
I have had that lie before (though not from the Met, I admit).  I was almost knocked off my bike by a speeding Royal Mail artic on Scott Hall Road one night.  I rang up immediately, and was told categorically that there were no vehicles there.

Some years ago I heard of someone who had a similar experience after leaving their car parked by the side of the road at Catterick Camp. When they returned to the vehicle they noticed that the suspension looked a little iffy - the roof had also been stoved in. The series of marks running over the bodywork the entire length of the car were consistent with being run over by a Chieftain tank. The Army denied that there had been a tank on that piece of road that day despite him having an independent witness (the local shopkeeper had seen it all). I believe the Army eventually settled, but it took quite some time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Access Legal Guy on 20 May, 2011, 02:59:01 pm

Had a cigarette thrown/flicked at me from a passing vehicle.

Usually I'd shrug off such behaviour, however this was on the most rural part of my commute and it's probably rained for a total of 5 hours here in the past 3 months. 15-20 miles north east of here were a number of heath fires only 2 weeks ago.

...what a mindless thing to do.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 20 May, 2011, 06:27:16 pm
Quote from: simonp on 20 May, 2011, 12:58:21 pm
Bus.  Thinking about putting some aero bars on my pomp.


I prefer a Cadbury Wispa myself. I think they have a smoother texture than an Aero. YMMV. :-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 20 May, 2011, 06:56:25 pm
Quote from: clarion on 20 May, 2011, 11:24:03 am
I have had that lie before (though not from the Met, I admit).  I was almost knocked off my bike by a speeding Royal Mail artic on Scott Hall Road one night.  I rang up immediately, and was told categorically that there were no vehicles there.  There have been a couple of other occasions.


To be fair to them they probably get right fed up with taking the flack for MI5 (or whatever) using vehicles painted up as Royal Mail, BT OpenThing, British Gas, Dynorod etc.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 20 May, 2011, 08:41:11 pm
I sent a mail to the Doctor's Laboratory, following meeting one of their motorcyclists around Bank:

"I can't remember seeing a motorcyclist giving a hand signal and looking back before manouvering so that he didn't take out any cycling numpties (paraphrase), he's a credit to your company"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Thing2 on 20 May, 2011, 08:54:59 pm
My commute this morning was brightened by a nice police man. The lad who overtook me on the narrow winding road up over the downs should really have thought twice about doing so given that the car coming the other way (who had to stop because of his manoeuvre), had blue lights on the roof and the word 'POLICE' written on it. The police car came past me with sirens and lights a few seconds later, and I passed him having a word with the driver about 5 minutes up the road  :thumbsup:
It's a shame the policeman missed the car who had his wing mirrors folded in. It's the second time recently I've seen cars being driven like that on that road...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 20 May, 2011, 08:59:46 pm
Waiting to cross a busy gyratory system on a Toucan crossing, with Columbus trailer attached.  Another bike pulled up behind me, towing a Burley Lite kiddie trailer.

How often does that happen outside the Netherlands?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: peterc on 20 May, 2011, 09:57:59 pm
Seem to be meeting people on the road these days to chat and share the ride with at the rate of about one a week. This being the sticks (where people say god morning to each other every when using other modes of transport, it's still nice to have a few miles of chatting.

Life in the sticks seems v'ry different to the stories I read here of London.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 22 May, 2011, 04:19:16 pm
Two very pleasant days of commuting over the weekend. The journey in to work has taken about two thirds of the usual weekday time on pleasantly empty roads. This morning was particularly lovely - the roads were still glistening from the overnight rain but the skies were clear and the sun was warm even in the slightly blustery wind. All this led to the first few miles being quite fragrant until I got to Camberwell where the aroma of fried food and stale beer overwhelmed the delicate bouquet of honeysuckle.
Blustery wind turned to squall on the return which was exciting rather than traumatic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 22 May, 2011, 10:56:26 pm
Quote from: Thing2 on 20 May, 2011, 08:54:59 pm
My commute this morning was brightened by a nice police man. The lad who overtook me on the narrow winding road up over the downs should really have thought twice about doing so given that the car coming the other way (who had to stop because of his manoeuvre), had blue lights on the roof and the word 'POLICE' written on it. The police car came past me with sirens and lights a few seconds later, and I passed him having a word with the driver about 5 minutes up the road  :thumbsup:
It's a shame the policeman missed the car who had his wing mirrors folded in. It's the second time recently I've seen cars being driven like that on that road...


I remain amazed by the number of drivers who are prepared to overtake me on blind bends on my commute. Especially on RH Bends, where I can see further than them (I am further left, and further forward) and I can't see if anything is coming. Basically they are simply gambling that nothing is coming. I've seen it go wrong twice (in three years). In both cases a collision narrowly avoided by the car coming the other way stopping in the grass verge - normally accompanied by much locking of wheels and spraying of mud.

I reckon I get an average of 1/day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 23 May, 2011, 06:34:09 am
Were the errant drivers to be shown video footage of this stupidity I can guarantee it would be the cyclist's fault for 'holding them up'.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 23 May, 2011, 07:57:24 am
The wildlife was out to get me this morning.  I missed one suicidal squirrel by small fractions of an inch and some feathered git decide to use me for target practice. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 23 May, 2011, 09:22:42 am
Quote from: rower40 on 20 May, 2011, 08:59:46 pm
Waiting to cross a busy gyratory system on a Toucan crossing, with Columbus trailer attached.  Another bike pulled up behind me, towing a Burley Lite kiddie trailer.

How often does that happen outside the Netherlands?

You should spend more time in York.

I think I was about the 2nd person in york to get a kiddie-carrying trailer. Now it's not uncommon to see a convoy of them. 10-15 at a time turn up at my youngest's school, along with with bakfiets etc.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 23 May, 2011, 09:25:17 am
That's awesome mrcharly!  I wish I'd see that many here in S. London.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 May, 2011, 10:09:56 am
At Clapham South this morning, I saw a motorcycle cop booking a motorist.

I don't know what he must have done for the Police to take any notice of a motoring offence - clubbing unicorns to death with kittens soaked in babies' tears, perhaps?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 23 May, 2011, 11:20:58 am
The o-so-ironic celeste top got its first outing today.

What I didn't realise (until I read the small print) that this version is delivered along with an obligation to drop anybody on a real Bianchi that looks like they don't know quite what they are doing. So be it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 23 May, 2011, 11:26:08 am
I got my legs ripped off by a slip of a girl who I see from time to time and occaisionally chat to. I'm faster than her in a straight line, but she's totally fearless and zooms through gaps where I brake!

She's planning to do a FNRttC one month, so perhaps Simon can persuade her to stop at red lights!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 23 May, 2011, 11:34:54 am
Riding fixed, by any chance?  If so, sounds like somebody I know.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 May, 2011, 03:34:23 pm
Um...that's getting quite windy now, and it's only 90mins till we go home! :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tourist Tony on 23 May, 2011, 03:37:10 pm
Just got in off the shopping run, four panniers, a long-flap camper and the rack. Horribly, horribly windy, the sort of ride where you find your mouth hanging open as if stunned. The drivers, of course, have modified their behaviour to allow for sudden gusts sideways.

Yeah, course they have.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 23 May, 2011, 03:59:23 pm
Yes, the wind was fairly extraordinary yesterday.  Quite nerve-wracking on the odd gust.

Weirdly, my bike, despite having an excessive of side-facing surfaces (tailbox, disc wheel, deep rim front), doesn't seem any more affected by the wind than my Langster.  Maybe it's the height, but otherwise I don't really understand why.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 23 May, 2011, 04:22:03 pm
Only 5 mins 'til I head off and I'm hoping that it'll be mostly tailwind and that hedgerows on the last 4 or 5 miles from Quenington where it'll be mostly sidewind will have enough leaf on them to kill the worst of it... fingers crossed.  What I can't work out is whether I need to set off with my galoshes &tc on or to not bother...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 23 May, 2011, 05:30:54 pm
Much respect to the skill of the scooter rider (and I am usually amazed by the lack of skills of most scooter riders!) in missing the numpty cyclist who decided on a dramatic direction change in moving traffic with no thoughts of looking over their shoulder, indicating etc. - I probably let out a little screech of horror as I thought I was about to see someone get squished.  Well done to the scooter dude anyway - how he managed to avoid cyclist and stay upright I'll never know.  He pulled over at the traffic lights (afore-mentioned cyclist continued on his merry way straight through them) and he did seem a little shaken when I had a little chat with him.

Hope the cyclist survived to reach their destination.

Next numpty was just outside Buckingham Palace - red light at the pedestrian crossing on Constitution Hill - lady who'd blown every red light from Hammersmith onwards and was still behind me (is it me or is it always the slow ones that seem to blow the lights?) saunters down in the outside lane, straight over lights dodging tourists etc.  Shame there was a police van coming the other way really.  Swift U-Turn and off they went (she ignored them flagging her down) - so hopefully they caught up with her and have dealt with her.

The commute back from town was even more horrific - as I had to drop my bike off at Condor for some new frameset action, I had to take the tube back - first time in months I've been on the tube (went on the Overground earlier in the year somewhere).

Anyway - hope everyone's rides back tonight are ok - looks pretty dicey out there with the wind, and I know we've not got it too bad down here.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 23 May, 2011, 06:08:18 pm
Headwind into work, made me late.
Rain and a tailwind home made me wet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 23 May, 2011, 07:46:23 pm
Well that was exciting !!! I think that it's the first time I've ever been blown up hill. Claypath isn't the steepest hill around in Durham, but its's getting pretty close. I found myself freewheeling up it with the wind on my back...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 May, 2011, 08:00:42 pm
Horrible wind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 23 May, 2011, 10:18:34 pm
It was at the point where you start to worry about bits getting blown off trees.

I'm getting fed up with this wind - it seems to have been every day for nearly 2 months now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 23 May, 2011, 10:24:07 pm
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 23 May, 2011, 10:18:34 pm

I'm getting fed up with this wind - it seems to have been every day for nearly 2 months now.

Have you tried peppermint Rennies?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 23 May, 2011, 10:30:09 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 23 May, 2011, 11:34:54 am
Riding fixed, by any chance?  If so, sounds like somebody I know.


Silver single speed with risers?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 24 May, 2011, 09:03:06 am
THE ZODIAC OF EMOTIONS
a poem
by EJ Thribb
Aged 10 1/4: The Audax years, before fame and glory

Sometimes when I ride
I think
One man's wind
Is another man's zephyr
Other times
I just say fuck
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 24 May, 2011, 09:37:25 am
Turned into the wind at the junction at the top of the village and felt like someone had clobbered me with a frying pan. Not as hellaciously windy as yesterday, but interesting enough.

Took great delight in passing a roadie on a soot bike going up The Mount - he was giving it six-nowt out of the saddle, I just twiddled past and said 'Good Morning'  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 24 May, 2011, 09:48:47 am
Quote from: interzen on 24 May, 2011, 09:37:25 am
Took great delight in passing a roadie on a soot bike going up The Mount - he was giving it six-nowt out of the saddle, I just twiddled past and said 'Good Morning'  ;D

LOL, nice one!!   ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 24 May, 2011, 09:54:31 am
I took a slightly different route to work today, over a few south london bumps and down into loughborough junction, then up through Kennington/North Lambeth/Waterloo.  I was, I am afraid, horrified at the loopiness of a lot of the cyclists.  Not just the dangerous light-jumping and undertaking but also loads of meandering without looking back.  I admire the patience and alertness of the motorists.  But at the same time it was great to be part of a swarm that was big enough to command some respect, despite the idiocies of some members of the swarm.  Are we at last getting to the critical mass stage on routes like this, where there are enough of us to force other road users to modify their behaviour?  I do hope so.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: eeymsmo on 24 May, 2011, 10:16:21 am
Day 2 of the  new commuting/training regime (direct commute from home to work is 1.2 miles, so instead I turn right and do 16 miles).

Nice sunny day this morning with less wind than yesterday. Though for some reason that seemed to mean there was less wildlife out?

Close unneeded overtake during a restriction by a Nottingham City Council van whilst I was clocking 33 in a 30 zone, unfortunately I was too busy holding my line to get the registration number and there was nothing distinctive about it either. Other than that traffic all seemed well behaved.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 24 May, 2011, 12:54:01 pm
Not a bad ride, but, being after commuting times, the bus lanes were rather interrupted by parking.  In fact, I made a mistake, heading down the magic blue paint to the left of a bus, not having noticed the parked car in the shade. :-[  Turned out OK, as it happens.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tlottrike on 24 May, 2011, 01:40:45 pm
A tree well two actually  :) Hopefully they will be gone tonight but who knows the council maybe distracted by other fallen over stuff on the roads.

(http://homepage.mac.com/fuzzytnth3/trapdoor/commute110524.jpg)

The trees are on the Edinburgh Roseburn cyclepath near Ravelston Dykes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 24 May, 2011, 02:23:55 pm
Got to work, realised I'd left my ID card and work keys at home (first time in 3 years). I could have got a temporary card from Security to get me into the building, and borrowed the spare key for the bike cage, but my work keys also include my locker in the changing rooms (towel, change of clothes) and locker by my desk (laptop). Sitting in my cycling stuff in the office with no laptop isn't workable so I turned around and cycled home, said hello to Mrs and baby GB again, collected my keys and ID badge and cycled back in again.

36.5km.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 24 May, 2011, 02:48:05 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 24 May, 2011, 02:23:55 pm
Got to work, realised I'd left my ID card and work keys at home (first time in 3 years).

I've managed that twice in the last year.  You're not trying hard enough.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 24 May, 2011, 04:18:37 pm
South London 3.00p.m.

 :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 24 May, 2011, 04:23:45 pm
Were you near Barack's route to Elephant & Castle?  It's teeming with Police here.  I can only imagine what it's like out on the roads...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 24 May, 2011, 04:32:13 pm
Yep. Roads teeming with police. Unfortunately, this seems to confound the belief that a greater visible police presence will increase compliance with road traffic law.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 24 May, 2011, 04:34:43 pm
They're not going to care about traffic offences, I'm guessing.  I've just heard that he'd previously visited Wesminster Abbey, but I'm not sure of the route he'd have taken between there & here.  Not down Borough High St, that's for sure.

The helicopters have been a PITA all afternoon.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 24 May, 2011, 04:35:50 pm
It occurs to me that it's 1630 and the block is still in place.  NKR at rush hour will be interesting.

I'm glad I'm here till late.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 24 May, 2011, 04:47:39 pm
Well, perhaps I should stop off at the Roebuck for a pint before heading the rest of the way home.   :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 24 May, 2011, 05:02:39 pm
Well just keep Barak down your way will you. I don't think we've recovered still from the time his predecessor, George W stopped with Tony for a pie and a pint at the Dun Cow in Sedgefield. They put the beer prices up specially, and they've never come down since.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 24 May, 2011, 05:05:06 pm
He's gone now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 24 May, 2011, 07:29:22 pm
I pulled out of a side junction a bit late, and a driver hooted me, which was fair comment, albeit I didn´t inconvenience him. However, he followed up with a punishment pass. Sadly for him, there was traffic at the next junction and I caught him.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 24 May, 2011, 07:36:13 pm
Did you explain his errors to him, or did you just let him stew?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 24 May, 2011, 07:38:06 pm
I said some things related to the incident. He didn´t cry, but his lip was quivering as he nodded his agreement that it was a silly thing to have done. I was very cross.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tourist Tony on 24 May, 2011, 08:23:25 pm
As I came in, the car in front of me stopped. Nothing in front of it...bet he's going to reverse, on a one way single lane road.
Yup, lights on and staright back at me.

"OY!!"

"WELL COME ROUND!!"

"IT'S A ONE WAY STREET!!"

"SELFISH FUGGER!!"

"GO ROUND AGAIN YOU TRUCKING WINKER THERE'S A BUS BEHIND ME"

Point made....I doubt it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 24 May, 2011, 11:28:08 pm
Beautiful day, cretinous road users. Many, many cretinous road users.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 25 May, 2011, 12:44:22 am
I got shouted at by a girl on a bike for bad cycling.  I can't imagine what I did wrong, but she told me to check my cameras. I will, tomorrow.  :o :-[

Oh also saw a trolley fall out of a sainsbury's home delivery van.   :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 25 May, 2011, 07:20:10 am
I am going to ride the TCR but I am going to try and stay in Zone2 on my HR for the entire journey.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 25 May, 2011, 09:28:47 am
Quote from: Wendy on 25 May, 2011, 12:44:22 am
I got shouted at by a girl on a bike for bad cycling.  I can't imagine what I did wrong, but she told me to check my cameras. I will, tomorrow.  :o :-[

Oh also saw a trolley fall out of a sainsbury's home delivery van.   :o

Nope, can't see what it was.  I was a little closer to her than I would have liked on the approach to the pedestrian crossing perhaps, but nothing unsafe.


    YouTube
        - ‪20110524 Bad Mikey gets shouted at‬&rlm;
   (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6glyMOSbkK4)


    YouTube
        - ‪20110524 Sainsburys home delivery trolley‬&rlm;
   (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oQRLQ6BZmjY)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 25 May, 2011, 09:40:02 am
Three days inna row. I think I is basically fixed (me, not the bike, that's got an Alfine)

And a beautiful morning. And reasonable speed
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/__5EyI8Ck-Lw/Tdy_bkvEjtI/AAAAAAAAdA8/-P-Z0Hf2M7I/s480/Untitled%20by%20gubgub%20at%20Garmin%20Connect%20-%20Details%20-%20Microsoft%20Internet%20Explorer%2025052011%20093527.bmp.jpg)


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 May, 2011, 09:44:04 am
Splendid ride home last night.  Despite the wind, the lack of traffic when I left at quarter to ten meant that I could get more into a rhythm, and get home almost all the way on the 'big' ring.  I averaged 23.7kph, and got home in 51mins, which is probably the best I will ever do into a strong wind.

This morning, I had a nice ride - to Balham with Butterfly, which is always a joy, then on to work at speed.

It does seem to be International Random Manoeuvre Day, however, and South London is celebrating in style.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 25 May, 2011, 09:51:00 am
Quote from: Wendy on 25 May, 2011, 09:28:47 am
Quote from: Wendy on 25 May, 2011, 12:44:22 am
I got shouted at by a girl on a bike for bad cycling.  I can't imagine what I did wrong, but she told me to check my cameras. I will, tomorrow.  :o :-[

Oh also saw a trolley fall out of a sainsbury's home delivery van.   :o

Nope, can't see what it was.  I was a little closer to her than I would have liked on the approach to the pedestrian crossing perhaps, but nothing unsafe.


    YouTube
        - ‪20110524 Bad Mikey gets shouted at‬&rlm;
   (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6glyMOSbkK4)


    YouTube
        - ‪20110524 Sainsburys home delivery trolley‬&rlm;
   (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oQRLQ6BZmjY)




Nope, couldn't see anything wrong with that either. And as to the second clip; I felt as if we were transported back to the fifties! Where were all the cars!?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 25 May, 2011, 10:04:16 am
Today was the commute that never should have been.

When one arranges to work from home on Wednesday it's a good idea, when leaving the office on Tuesday, to ensure one has everything needed for the next day's work.  I dutifully spent time copying assorted documents to a memory stick... and left it in the office.  :facepalm: 07:15 in the office to collect said memory stick; 07:25 back on the road heading home.

There are a lot of idiots on the roads.  Sadly, quite a few them on bicycles.  I shook my head at one such rider coming the other way through a red light.  I assume he saw me and knew why I was shaking my head as I heard him shout "F*** off!" as he came by.

In a way I'm glad there were a few riders guilty of RLJ or drifting into junctions.  Otherwise I would have lost the Tour de Commute!
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Access Legal Guy on 25 May, 2011, 10:42:32 am

lovely ride in today. Wind has dropped and the sun was high and bright. Since extending my route in, I've began to notice the same vehicles (number plates) around me quite regularly, and i'm sure that the driving around me has improved.

The same can't be said of the route home where I have encountered a problem on 5 of the last 7 working days at this section of road.

http://maps.google.co.uk/?ie=UTF8&ll=51.270719,-1.111738&spn=0.001497,0.005407&t=h&z=18 (http://maps.google.co.uk/?ie=UTF8&ll=51.270719,-1.111738&spn=0.001497,0.005407&t=h&z=18)

I arrive at this loop from east to west and then continue north. It's not wide enough for two cars side by side but probably is ok for an over take in terms of width. That said any car will struggle to negotiate this loop safely at more than 20mph and if one hugs the left to allow an overtake you'll be putting yourself out of view of any vehilcles that approach the loop from the slip road at the bottom of the loop. For this reason I take a primary positon in the centre of the road to take the full loop before moving over.

On 5 times out of the last 7 I have been squeezed left twice, left hooked immediately before entering the loop, honked and had something thrown at me.

Of the two occasions without incident, one was traffic free and teh other was a white van man who was quite willing and able to wait for a few seconds.

How would you negotiate this loop? 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 25 May, 2011, 11:04:16 am
I did a commute!  First since wrist injury.  Sprinted along Milton Road to new office at 49.1kph top speed.  Parked bike in multi-storey car park, under cover.  Sweet.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 25 May, 2011, 11:07:59 am
Quote from: Wendy on 25 May, 2011, 09:28:47 am
Quote from: Wendy on 25 May, 2011, 12:44:22 am
I got shouted at by a girl on a bike for bad cycling.  I can't imagine what I did wrong, but she told me to check my cameras. I will, tomorrow.  :o :-[

Oh also saw a trolley fall out of a sainsbury's home delivery van.   :o

Nope, can't see what it was.  I was a little closer to her than I would have liked on the approach to the pedestrian crossing perhaps, but nothing unsafe.


    YouTube
        - ‪20110524 Bad Mikey gets shouted at‬&rlm;
   (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6glyMOSbkK4)


    YouTube
        - ‪20110524 Sainsburys home delivery trolley‬&rlm;
   (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oQRLQ6BZmjY)


I'm watching this with no sound, so can't catch the shouting moment.  Are we talking about the same young lady who filters up the LHS of the bus while it's moving?  That had my colleague and me wincing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 25 May, 2011, 11:15:34 am
Quote from: Chris L on 25 May, 2011, 11:07:59 am
I'm watching this with no sound, so can't catch the shouting moment.  Are we talking about the same young lady who filters up the LHS of the bus while it's moving?  That had my colleague and me wincing.

Yeah, that's the one.  As we approach the pedestrian crossing she muttered something that you can't hear, and later on when I asked her if she'd been talking to me, she told me something along the lines of I couldn't see you, and if you ride like that you must have a lot of collisions in London.  It seemed to relate to our approach to the pedestrian crossing.

She was quite quick actually, I was impressed, although less so with the bus undertake.  About the only thing I was unhappy with myself for there was my lookey loo watching her go down the nearside of the moving bus.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jaded on 25 May, 2011, 11:40:04 am
She may have meant you riding in the car lane. Shouldn't you be in the bike lane?  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 25 May, 2011, 11:50:59 am
Quote from: Jaded on 25 May, 2011, 11:40:04 am
She may have meant you riding in the car lane. Shouldn't you be in the bike lane?  ;D

You could be right.  She mentioned something about not seeing me when I came up alongside her, which was mostly because she did zero looking behind her for the whole time we were on the same stretch of the road, at least as far as I could tell.  I wonder if there was also some recumbent fear?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 25 May, 2011, 11:58:31 am
Quote from: Access Legal Guy on 25 May, 2011, 10:42:32 am

lovely ride in today. Wind has dropped and the sun was high and bright. Since extending my route in, I've began to notice the same vehicles (number plates) around me quite regularly, and i'm sure that the driving around me has improved.

The same can't be said of the route home where I have encountered a problem on 5 of the last 7 working days at this section of road.

http://maps.google.co.uk/?ie=UTF8&ll=51.270719,-1.111738&spn=0.001497,0.005407&t=h&z=18 (http://maps.google.co.uk/?ie=UTF8&ll=51.270719,-1.111738&spn=0.001497,0.005407&t=h&z=18)

I arrive at this loop from east to west and then continue north. It's not wide enough for two cars side by side but probably is ok for an over take in terms of width. That said any car will struggle to negotiate this loop safely at more than 20mph and if one hugs the left to allow an overtake you'll be putting yourself out of view of any vehilcles that approach the loop from the slip road at the bottom of the loop. For this reason I take a primary positon in the centre of the road to take the full loop before moving over.

On 5 times out of the last 7 I have been squeezed left twice, left hooked immediately before entering the loop, honked and had something thrown at me.

Of the two occasions without incident, one was traffic free and teh other was a white van man who was quite willing and able to wait for a few seconds.

How would you negotiate this loop? 

That's a bit horrible - a classic case of a road designed without any thought for non-motorised users. It's hard to say without being there but it sounds as though you are doing what is sensible.  I would aim  to take primary in the left lane and greet any honking with a friendly wave of the hand. Obviously, the faster you can go the better!  I'd also acknowledge the fact that people have waited when you are able to pull over towards the left.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 25 May, 2011, 11:59:48 am
Quote from: Wendy on 25 May, 2011, 11:50:59 am
Quote from: Jaded on 25 May, 2011, 11:40:04 am
She may have meant you riding in the car lane. Shouldn't you be in the bike lane?  ;D

You could be right.  She mentioned something about not seeing me when I came up alongside her, which was mostly because she did zero looking behind her for the whole time we were on the same stretch of the road, at least as far as I could tell.  I wonder if there was also some recumbent fear?

I don't think you should be worried about criticism from someone who rides up the left side of buses (and , in fact, undertook you when you were positioned perfectly behind said bus).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 25 May, 2011, 12:02:27 pm
Thanks!  I still listen to criticism, even when I think the person themselves doesn't have good judgement.  I like to think you can learn from anyone.

I reckon I could have given her more room on the approach to the pedestrian crossing.  Maybe not necessary, but it would have been nice, and easy for me to do.  Next time...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Access Legal Guy on 25 May, 2011, 12:47:24 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 25 May, 2011, 11:58:31 am
Quote from: Access Legal Guy on 25 May, 2011, 10:42:32 am

lovely ride in today. Wind has dropped and the sun was high and bright. Since extending my route in, I've began to notice the same vehicles (number plates) around me quite regularly, and i'm sure that the driving around me has improved.

The same can't be said of the route home where I have encountered a problem on 5 of the last 7 working days at this section of road.

http://maps.google.co.uk/?ie=UTF8&ll=51.270719,-1.111738&spn=0.001497,0.005407&t=h&z=18 (http://maps.google.co.uk/?ie=UTF8&ll=51.270719,-1.111738&spn=0.001497,0.005407&t=h&z=18)

I arrive at this loop from east to west and then continue north. It's not wide enough for two cars side by side but probably is ok for an over take in terms of width. That said any car will struggle to negotiate this loop safely at more than 20mph and if one hugs the left to allow an overtake you'll be putting yourself out of view of any vehilcles that approach the loop from the slip road at the bottom of the loop. For this reason I take a primary positon in the centre of the road to take the full loop before moving over.

On 5 times out of the last 7 I have been squeezed left twice, left hooked immediately before entering the loop, honked and had something thrown at me.

Of the two occasions without incident, one was traffic free and teh other was a white van man who was quite willing and able to wait for a few seconds.

How would you negotiate this loop? 

That's a bit horrible - a classic case of a road designed without any thought for non-motorised users. It's hard to say without being there but it sounds as though you are doing what is sensible.  I would aim  to take primary in the left lane and greet any honking with a friendly wave of the hand. Obviously, the faster you can go the better!  I'd also acknowledge the fact that people have waited when you are able to pull over towards the left.

I always acknowledge any vehicle that alters it's speed or direction for me.

What makes this worse, and may be the reason for the problems here is that at the top of the loop (where there are footpaths crossing) there is a shred use cycle facility. like most, it's a waste of money with far too many give way points to make any sort of cycle journey acceptable on it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 25 May, 2011, 03:05:31 pm
I've had a fairly arduous few days on the bike. Road behaviour has been shockingly bad round here. Despite me feeling that I've been riding well, finding the time and space to accommodate others, anticipating what others might call the unexpected - it's not been enough to keep me safe or from keeping me feeling uncontaminated by the close proximity of utter cretins. It's been hard work remaining calm, composed and civil. In fact, there was every chance that the motoring public of south London were soon to become aware of how I earned the soubriquet 'Psycho' at secondary school. Just one, just one mention of a tax disc as justification for anything and I think I'd be setting Russell Jones and Walker some interesting new challenges.
However, the commute today looks like being much easier to handle. The knowledge that there is one notice of intention of prosecution dispatched to a WVM, that TfL will be having words with a bus driver and that I've been asked to provide a statement for another incident means that the roads are now much safer for everyone. Thank you Roadsafe London.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 25 May, 2011, 03:29:35 pm
I did think when I saw your latest batch of YT videos that you've had a bit of a bad run lately.  I hope this doesn't get you down and that it doesn't last.

I must say that you seem to remain very calm in the face of what can only be described as weapons grade cockwomblery.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 25 May, 2011, 03:36:43 pm
Yeah, I feel for you Ben, those videos have been rough watching, not even being there.  Plus you're a fine role model for the way you've behaved, I wish I could do as well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 25 May, 2011, 04:35:03 pm
Cheers guys. I've fewer and fewer qualms over acting as a mobile surveillance platform now. Any sympathy I had for people being nabbed by such underhand means as a cyclist with a camera under his lid has pretty much disappeared. I could be more controlled and even less confrontational but I'd soon be getting to the point of only being able to whistle a merry tune in response to near death. Even then someone would probably object on grounds of musical preference. I've also found that it doesn't necessarily pay to look like you can't offer any resistance.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Honest John on 25 May, 2011, 05:01:22 pm
Quote from: Chris L on 25 May, 2011, 11:07:59 am
Quote from: Wendy on 25 May, 2011, 09:28:47 am
Quote from: Wendy on 25 May, 2011, 12:44:22 am
I got shouted at by a girl on a bike for bad cycling.  I can't imagine what I did wrong, but she told me to check my cameras. I will, tomorrow.  :o :-[

Oh also saw a trolley fall out of a sainsbury's home delivery van.   :o

Nope, can't see what it was.  I was a little closer to her than I would have liked on the approach to the pedestrian crossing perhaps, but nothing unsafe.


    YouTube
        - ‪20110524 Bad Mikey gets shouted at‬&rlm;
   (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6glyMOSbkK4)


    YouTube
        - ‪20110524 Sainsburys home delivery trolley‬&rlm;
   (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oQRLQ6BZmjY)


I'm watching this with no sound, so can't catch the shouting moment.  Are we talking about the same young lady who filters up the LHS of the bus while it's moving?  That had my colleague and me wincing.

+1. I've come across quite a few numptie cyclists who think riding confidently and safely is a bad idea. They seem to be conviced they should creep along in the gutter and undertake Buses and HGVs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Honest John on 25 May, 2011, 05:05:39 pm
Quote from: Access Legal Guy on 25 May, 2011, 10:42:32 am

lovely ride in today. Wind has dropped and the sun was high and bright. Since extending my route in, I've began to notice the same vehicles (number plates) around me quite regularly, and i'm sure that the driving around me has improved.

The same can't be said of the route home where I have encountered a problem on 5 of the last 7 working days at this section of road.

http://maps.google.co.uk/?ie=UTF8&ll=51.270719,-1.111738&spn=0.001497,0.005407&t=h&z=18 (http://maps.google.co.uk/?ie=UTF8&ll=51.270719,-1.111738&spn=0.001497,0.005407&t=h&z=18)

I arrive at this loop from east to west and then continue north. It's not wide enough for two cars side by side but probably is ok for an over take in terms of width. That said any car will struggle to negotiate this loop safely at more than 20mph and if one hugs the left to allow an overtake you'll be putting yourself out of view of any vehilcles that approach the loop from the slip road at the bottom of the loop. For this reason I take a primary positon in the centre of the road to take the full loop before moving over.

On 5 times out of the last 7 I have been squeezed left twice, left hooked immediately before entering the loop, honked and had something thrown at me.

Of the two occasions without incident, one was traffic free and teh other was a white van man who was quite willing and able to wait for a few seconds.

How would you negotiate this loop?  

I know that bit. It's on my route out of Basingstoke when I lead a club ride from the station northwards towards Ashmansworth (with allegedly the highest pub in Hampshire) and Linkenholt.

I've never used it in heavy traffic - it's usually a Sunday morning when I'm there.

I'd hold your line if I were you and assert primary. And look pointedly at the dotted lines on the road (when not administering Hard Stares).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Honest John on 25 May, 2011, 05:08:26 pm
Quote from: Access Legal Guy on 25 May, 2011, 12:47:24 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 25 May, 2011, 11:58:31 am
Quote from: Access Legal Guy on 25 May, 2011, 10:42:32 am

lovely ride in today. Wind has dropped and the sun was high and bright. Since extending my route in, I've began to notice the same vehicles (number plates) around me quite regularly, and i'm sure that the driving around me has improved.

The same can't be said of the route home where I have encountered a problem on 5 of the last 7 working days at this section of road.

http://maps.google.co.uk/?ie=UTF8&ll=51.270719,-1.111738&spn=0.001497,0.005407&t=h&z=18 (http://maps.google.co.uk/?ie=UTF8&ll=51.270719,-1.111738&spn=0.001497,0.005407&t=h&z=18)

I arrive at this loop from east to west and then continue north. It's not wide enough for two cars side by side but probably is ok for an over take in terms of width. That said any car will struggle to negotiate this loop safely at more than 20mph and if one hugs the left to allow an overtake you'll be putting yourself out of view of any vehilcles that approach the loop from the slip road at the bottom of the loop. For this reason I take a primary positon in the centre of the road to take the full loop before moving over.

On 5 times out of the last 7 I have been squeezed left twice, left hooked immediately before entering the loop, honked and had something thrown at me.

Of the two occasions without incident, one was traffic free and teh other was a white van man who was quite willing and able to wait for a few seconds.

How would you negotiate this loop? 

That's a bit horrible - a classic case of a road designed without any thought for non-motorised users. It's hard to say without being there but it sounds as though you are doing what is sensible.  I would aim  to take primary in the left lane and greet any honking with a friendly wave of the hand. Obviously, the faster you can go the better!  I'd also acknowledge the fact that people have waited when you are able to pull over towards the left.

I always acknowledge any vehicle that alters it's speed or direction for me.

What makes this worse, and may be the reason for the problems here is that at the top of the loop (where there are footpaths crossing) there is a shred use cycle facility. like most, it's a waste of money with far too many give way points to make any sort of cycle journey acceptable on it.

I've noticed a lot of cycle lanes and paths around Basingstoke. But since I haven't a clue where they go and they seem to have no useful signage, I've never tried them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Access Legal Guy on 25 May, 2011, 05:22:43 pm
 HJ - yes that would be the route out of Basingstoke in that direction. Lovely part of the North Hampshire countryside once one is past the section of road I highlighted.

I'll continue as I have.

I'd recommend never trying the cycle lanes if you're heading anywhere other than north/north east towards Reading. Then once out of town the roads are fit for as leisurely cycle as one could wish for.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Honest John on 25 May, 2011, 05:30:57 pm
Not really a commute since, as one of the leisured classes these days, I was on the way back from Marylebone after a nice ride in the Chilterns.

As I told Roadsafe:

"I approached from Pimlico Rd on the cycle lane on the RHS of the traffic intending to turn right. Bus driver turning right from Ebury Bridge obstructed me from turning right and told me there was "no right turn", despite "No Right Turn Except Cycles" sign.

Here (http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=Ebury+Bridge+Road,+London&aq=0&sll=51.490743,-0.149367&sspn=0.003166,0.008712&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Ebury+Bridge+Rd,+London,+United+Kingdom&ll=51.49091,-0.150054&spn=0.000396,0.001089&t=h&z=20&layer=c&cbll=51.490914,-0.150047&panoid=gnIay9qxbyyVLUwrns8MYA&cbp=12,133.22,,2,2.33).

If there's one thing that really gets me going it's bare-faced lying by other road users*. Especially since one of the bus passengers was a policeman,

*Another thing (and another thing...) is road users who don't read road signs or bloody big arrows on the road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 25 May, 2011, 07:49:38 pm
This morning was the first commute to the new office, due to wrist injury occurring the day before we started in the new office.  So this evening was the first unCommute.

To the guy on the fixie on Stourbridge Common.  When we accelerated after getting past those peds, you really didn’t want to accelerate past me to a speed you could only maintain for 200 yards.  :smug:

My average for this ride, despite the wee hold-ups, was about 28kph.  My wrist didn’t hurt one bit.  Though it was on the flat, I was riding fixed, and gie’ing it laldy. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 25 May, 2011, 08:29:11 pm
3 or 4 bikes and riders spread over the middle of the road on Millbank (right outside Millbank Tower) at 5.30pm. Police in attendance and road temporarily blocked. Looks like no motor vehicles involved, just (probably) a nodder and some innocent collateral damage.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 May, 2011, 08:33:17 pm
I was about 300m away from work when I indicated right to turn onto the shared path.  A van roared round me, and turned left onto NKR.

Fuck!

I got the number, but couldn't for the life of me remember the company name.  It wasn't familiar to me, but it was an AV company with an orange logo called something like Video Tech.  Never mind, I wrote down the number, so Roadsafe can sort it out (if they can be bothered).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 25 May, 2011, 09:43:56 pm
Cracking ride home today...
Southerly breeze for a change (i.e. no ruddy howling againsterly gale)
Caught 3 (three!) cyclists.
The first was up Baslow road toward Owler Bar - managed 24kph on the 4% section; quickest for some time.
One of the fastest overall commutes for a while - 2h10 for 57km and 880m climbing - not bad for a fat git the wrong side of 55, I guess  ;D
Only one moton tooted me; for some reason he took exception to me crossing his path well ahead of him on a roundabout....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 25 May, 2011, 10:04:43 pm
Can a person really be able not to hear a completely flat tyre when they have the sunroof open.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 May, 2011, 10:17:21 pm
Apparently so.  Unless there's one driver who's been doing that for years, it seems to be far too common
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 25 May, 2011, 10:24:23 pm
Quote from: Honest John on 25 May, 2011, 05:30:57 pm
If there's one thing that really gets me going it's bare-faced lying by other road users*.

*Another thing (and another thing...) is road users who don't read road signs or bloody big arrows on the road.

 You'll love this guy. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ceb7JWSPUms)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 25 May, 2011, 10:50:10 pm
Quote from: clarion on 25 May, 2011, 08:33:17 pm
Never mind, I wrote down the number, so Roadsafe can sort it out (if they can be bothered).

Roadsafe seem to be far more on the ball than they were a few months ago. Hopefully they'll come through, you could do with a decent response for once. I've been impressed with the service I've received from the Met over what I consider fairly minor road incidents recently. Not that makes up for the really shitty way they've treated my family as it tries to piece itself back together after a major incident. When the police respond to an IPCC ruling against them by declaring that if anyone insists on the report's recommendations being implemented they will withhold all documents with the intention of stymieing a compensation case between two third parties you start to wonder whether it is incompetence you are dealing with or something far more sinister. There's also some high profile stuff going on that I thought we had seen the end of in this country.

Sorry for the rant. What I mean to say is, there are some decent officers in good units doing good work - but it is a matter of luck as to whether you encounter these or another sort.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 25 May, 2011, 11:38:00 pm
Tonight's commute contained some personal FAIL.  I teased three riders for being very slow, who'd been jumping red lights for miles and roughly keeping up with me and each other. About three jumped red lights later I dropped the Fujin on the edge of a manhole cover I'd missed in the ASL. So embarrassing.  Worse was that as I fell I hit the horn with my chest, which got everyone looking.   :-[ :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jakob on 26 May, 2011, 01:14:22 am
On Monday. (Bank Holiday). Finally weather cleared, so a friend and I went out for the usual Stanley Park ride. On the way back, a group of 4 roadies pass us, all riding rather aggressively, given that traffic is slow. Front guy either gets slightly squeezed by a Jag or tries to squeeze by without there being room...I didn't see it clearly, but a very minor incident, but starts shouting at the driver and then gives it an almighty slap as it passes by. Cyclist jumps up, races ahead, rummages for his drinks bottle and then very predictably sprays at the car as it re-passes. Car doesn't react, so he throws the bottle hard at the car. This makes the jag swerve slightly to the side and brakes and while it was meant to intimidate, there was never any danger of hitting the cyclist.
Cyclist loses it, tries to open passenger door, but it's locked. He dismounts and you can see he contemplates throwing his bike at the car, but it's a nice carbon frame, so he reconsiders and instead starts punching the window *hard*. His mates(?) now race up to constrain him, but the traffic in front has cleared and the jag takes off.
Cyclists remounts, whilst swearing, but gets little obvious sympathy from his mates and he takes off in a hurry.
We ride a little with his friends(?), who are clearly slightly embarrassed by the whole thing and I joke about how completely predictable the escalation was.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 26 May, 2011, 08:39:32 am
No2Daughter has a thing at school today which needed additional supplies, so a detour via the shop was required. Unfortunately the parental unit didn't quite manage to disentangle herself from bed on time (lazy unemployed scrounger, doubtless) so we were a little later than intended. Cue comedic sight of orange double decker school bus chased through RAF housing estate by tandem mother-daughter team with daughter yelling "come ON Mummy, FASTER".
We caught it.  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 26 May, 2011, 08:47:16 am
Quote from: Jakob on 26 May, 2011, 01:14:22 am
He dismounts and you can see he contemplates throwing his bike at the car, but it's a nice carbon frame, so he reconsiders and instead starts punching the window *hard*.

He isn't going to do anything to the window.  The correct answer is to wallop the wing mirror vertically.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 May, 2011, 09:16:43 am
Top riding, boab! :thumbsup:

This morning's commute felt very fast indeed.  I kept re-passing all the RLJers, and several times found myself out in front of everyone.  I even took to holding back in the queue and letting others filter past, only to retake them a wee bit later.  Fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 26 May, 2011, 09:29:50 am
Quote from: Jakob on 26 May, 2011, 01:14:22 am
On Monday. (Bank Holiday). Finally weather cleared, so a friend and I went out for the usual Stanley Park ride. On the way back, a group of 4 roadies pass us, all riding rather aggressively, given that traffic is slow. Front guy either gets slightly squeezed by a Jag or tries to squeeze by without there being room...I didn't see it clearly, but a very minor incident, but starts shouting at the driver and then gives it an almighty slap as it passes by. Cyclist jumps up, races ahead, rummages for his drinks bottle and then very predictably sprays at the car as it re-passes. Car doesn't react, so he throws the bottle hard at the car. This makes the jag swerve slightly to the side and brakes and while it was meant to intimidate, there was never any danger of hitting the cyclist.
Cyclist loses it, tries to open passenger door, but it's locked. He dismounts and you can see he contemplates throwing his bike at the car, but it's a nice carbon frame, so he reconsiders and instead starts punching the window *hard*. His mates(?) now race up to constrain him, but the traffic in front has cleared and the jag takes off.
Cyclists remounts, whilst swearing, but gets little obvious sympathy from his mates and he takes off in a hurry.
:o

That jag driver deserves a medal for restraint.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 26 May, 2011, 11:01:36 am
^^^^^
& we wonder why some motorists have a low regard for cyclists ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 26 May, 2011, 11:11:30 am
Fastest.  Commute.  Ever.

29.3kph rolling average.

Would have been close to 30kph if it wasn't for all the cars and buses.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 26 May, 2011, 11:26:25 am
Interesting yesterday. On way into London, I barely escaped squooshing by a crazily driven SUV. Roared out of a side-street in Honor Oak, took the corner so wide that it clipped the pavement opposite. I slipped over to the other side of road just in time for it to speed past. So fast that I couldn't even recall the make. Oddly, driven by what looked like a middling aged woman rather than a wannabe ghetto gangster. Going so fast that she skidded around the next corner. Narrow, residential streets, pure luck she didn't hit me or something else.

On the way home, quite late, a car hooned it past me (in the bus lane) at a multiple of speed limit. Why? To get through the red light at Camberwell Green only several seconds after it had changed. Utterly ludicrous numbers of cars running clearly red lights, presumably because the Met don't come out after five unless they get to play with their sirens.

Finally, and sobering. Serious car smash at the top of the Fountain Drive. Entire road closed off by the police. Seemed like a sports car (looked like a Merc, but you couldn't entirely tell) had broadsided a people carrier. I assume on the roundabout, but it looked like the Merc had flipped - I couldn't tell if was convertible or the roof had been ripped off. Both vehicles written off, debris scattered everywhere. I hate to think how fast it had been going for that much damage to result.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 26 May, 2011, 11:58:59 am
I had to walk past that last night. I don't think those roundabouts are compatible with the way people drive round here any more.
I've also just given my details as a witness to a prang at the end of my road. There's something in the air, in addition to the flying branches and carrier bags. Take care.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 26 May, 2011, 01:20:58 pm
I hope the rain eases off later, stair rods coming down here.  Oh well,  my rhubarb & raspberries will be grateful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 26 May, 2011, 01:34:15 pm
Quote from: benborp on 26 May, 2011, 11:58:59 am
I had to walk past that last night. I don't think those roundabouts are compatible with the way people drive round here any more.

I know what you are saying Mr Borp but, in my view it is the driving that isn't compatible with the road layout.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 26 May, 2011, 03:03:06 pm
I know what you're saying fuzzy, but I don't hold out much hope of general driving behaviour being modified before any road layout!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Honest John on 26 May, 2011, 04:11:54 pm
Quote from: LittleWheelsandBig on 26 May, 2011, 08:47:16 am
Quote from: Jakob on 26 May, 2011, 01:14:22 am
He dismounts and you can see he contemplates throwing his bike at the car, but it's a nice carbon frame, so he reconsiders and instead starts punching the window *hard*.

He isn't going to do anything to the window.  The correct answer is to wallop the wing mirror vertically.

If the window is open, hooking your hand over the top and leaning back heavily will shatter it. Not that I'd ever do it. Honest.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 26 May, 2011, 05:27:18 pm
Quote from: ian on 26 May, 2011, 11:26:25 am
Finally, and sobering. Serious car smash at the top of the Fountain Drive. Entire road closed off by the police. Seemed like a sports car (looked like a Merc, but you couldn't entirely tell) had broadsided a people carrier. I assume on the roundabout, but it looked like the Merc had flipped - I couldn't tell if was convertible or the roof had been ripped off. Both vehicles written off, debris scattered everywhere. I hate to think how fast it had been going for that much damage to result.

Jeez, that sounds nasty. I was planning to do the Bromley-Southwark route this morning, which goes past that spot, but I was too late out of bed so got the train all the way instead. Glad I missed that. [edit: just saw that it was last night rather than this morning, but same applies...]

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dinamo on 26 May, 2011, 07:26:44 pm
Drenched this morning  :(
Overnight rain continued on my commute home, on leaving work the clouds were starting to regroup again, and as I crossed the Avonmouth bridge a glance over my shoulder gave me a view of the impending downpour !
Sheltered briefly under some trees in Shirehampton, but soon realised I had to go for it, by the time I reached the Avon ring road at Filton I was soaked to the skin  >:(

On mornings like this I'm always amazed how many fellow cyclists seem to wave, smile and say good morning !

PS to myself always pack waterproof PPS check weather forecast  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 26 May, 2011, 07:49:10 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 26 May, 2011, 05:27:18 pm
Quote from: ian on 26 May, 2011, 11:26:25 am
Finally, and sobering. Serious car smash at the top of the Fountain Drive. Entire road closed off by the police. Seemed like a sports car (looked like a Merc, but you couldn't entirely tell) had broadsided a people carrier. I assume on the roundabout, but it looked like the Merc had flipped - I couldn't tell if was convertible or the roof had been ripped off. Both vehicles written off, debris scattered everywhere. I hate to think how fast it had been going for that much damage to result.

Jeez, that sounds nasty. I was planning to do the Bromley-Southwark route this morning, which goes past that spot, but I was too late out of bed so got the train all the way instead. Glad I missed that. [edit: just saw that it was last night rather than this morning, but same applies...]

d.


Yeah, it was grim. Fortunately for me it must have happened some time before, the police were waiting for the tow trucks and clean-up crew.

A bloody cherry on a day of witnessed awful and dangerous driving.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 26 May, 2011, 07:58:34 pm
I got very wet and then cold fixing a puncture.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 26 May, 2011, 08:04:00 pm
Drenched  ;D

Hail, thunder and lightning, the lot earlier on. I was dreading a visitation as a lot of crap was getting washed out. Montane Velo lasted about 3 minutes (actually it was a lot better than nothing - only the shoulders let in a bit).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 May, 2011, 08:33:28 pm
Quite wet, but the worst of it had passed by the time I left.  Stamding water was shocking though - at Kennington and Stockwell the water was above the chain, and my feet were going underwater.  At Clapham, it was almost as bad, then there were patches nearer home which I needed to avoid, but fortunately the traffic wasn't so bad, so I could ride round.

One hour three minutes, so not as slow as I'd feared, and the motons weren't too badly behaved.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 26 May, 2011, 08:35:12 pm
I watched bad rain from my desk. Stopped by home time. Took it easier tonight. Bit damp.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 26 May, 2011, 08:58:42 pm
I got home tonight covered in shit - quite literally I think.

On the way up my one hill on Coombe Lane in Kingston there was that unmistakeable smell of sewage, and sure enough, half way up the hill a drain cover was off and a brownish liquid was gushing out.

YUK !

Straight into the shower.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 May, 2011, 09:06:53 pm
That was a crap ride, then.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 26 May, 2011, 09:08:33 pm
Quote from: hatler on 26 May, 2011, 08:58:42 pm
I got home tonight covered in shit - quite literally I think.

On the way up my one hill on Coombe Lane in Kingston there was that unmistakeable smell of sewage, and sure enough, half way up the hill a drain cover was off and a brownish liquid was gushing out.

YUK !

Straight into the shower.

Sore throat tomorrow
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 26 May, 2011, 09:11:56 pm
And it was pissing down.

I managed to hit Bang Central of a lightning storm. Four cracks directly overhead.

Great fun.

Until the shit stream.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adam on 26 May, 2011, 09:34:02 pm
It was raining as well on my way home. 

In the gutter, blocking up all the water, I noticed a dead animal.  Initially I thought it was a rat, and immediately thought "oh a drowned rat"!  Then I noticed it was a squirrel.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 26 May, 2011, 09:48:20 pm
Quote from: Adam on 26 May, 2011, 09:34:02 pm
It was raining as well on my way home. 

In the gutter, blocking up all the water, I noticed a dead animal.  Initially I thought it was a rat, and immediately thought "oh a drowned rat"!  Then I noticed it was a squirrel.

Smooth the tail down and what's the difference?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adam on 26 May, 2011, 09:57:56 pm
Quote from: Adrian on 26 May, 2011, 09:48:20 pm
what's the difference?

Nuts?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 26 May, 2011, 10:03:59 pm
Quote from: Adam on 26 May, 2011, 09:57:56 pm
Quote from: Adrian on 26 May, 2011, 09:48:20 pm
what's the difference?

Nuts?

Don't mind if I do
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 26 May, 2011, 10:11:38 pm
I cycled through cow pats on my ride home.  That had been rained on.  I don’t have mudguards for nothing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 26 May, 2011, 10:50:33 pm
Good news is, I didged the rain going both to and from work, which was lucky because I was on the mountain bike, sans mudguards and not carrying my waterproof the jacket I wear when it rains. :smug:

Bad news is, when I went out again after work, I got a sodding punture. ::-) :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 27 May, 2011, 11:41:13 am
Quote from: Adrian on 26 May, 2011, 09:08:33 pm
Quote from: hatler on 26 May, 2011, 08:58:42 pm
I got home tonight covered in shit - quite literally I think.

On the way up my one hill on Coombe Lane in Kingston there was that unmistakeable smell of sewage, and sure enough, half way up the hill a drain cover was off and a brownish liquid was gushing out.

YUK !

Straight into the shower.

Sore throat tomorrow

You're absolutely right. How does that work then ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 May, 2011, 11:49:52 am
Rode in a bit later, anticipating late finish (fingers crossed I don't have to).  Lack of rush hour traffic didn't completely offset the friday legs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 27 May, 2011, 11:50:29 am
Erm, you breathed in bacteria from the sewage?


Rode the mercian in today, with it's air-scoop mudguards. I fettled a bodge up mount for the gps so I could keep an eye on road speed (doesn't work very well, can't read it on the drops).

Hmm, it's very easy to let speed drop off on the mercian. Also, although it doesn't feel as rough, it is no quicker over the rough bits of road, despite the 1.5" tyres (vs 23mm on the Ribble).

I put it down to the Rubino pro tyres being very very flexible.

Might have to try some 2" balloon tyres on the Mercian. Spacehoppers 'r Us  ;D  
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 27 May, 2011, 11:59:59 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 27 May, 2011, 11:50:29 am
Erm, you breathed in bacteria from the sewage?

But I'd have thought I'd be more likely to come down with a gut infection than a sore throat. More like food poisoning. Yes ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 27 May, 2011, 04:07:48 pm
It's not getting any better. First idiot was a scooter rider nibbling round my back wheel and trying to dive up my inside as I tried to turn right at the roundabout at the top of Fountain Drive, a place where I'm SMIDSYd more often than not. He eventually went for the overtake in time to cut across in front of me, on the brakes, two yards short of a speed bump. Twat. Off he speeds.
A couple of hundred yards further on I ease up as I can see that I'll be hidden behind turning traffic from a driver that is emerging blind from a side road. The driver of the emerging car sees me and stops and I roll on but I have a suspicion; I turn and check behind me and find that I'm right. The emerging car is now ducking down under braking after having nearly t-boned the cyclist following a few yards behind me who would have been visible far longer than I had been.
Two or three hundred yards further and I come across the scooter rider again. He's behind a single car making its way through the toll gate. Ten seconds is too long to wait so he mounts the pavement and speeds off again.
Three hundred yards on and I've taken up position just to the right of primary behind a car travelling a little over the speed limit. The reason for my positioning is this - there are speed cushions here, there is no kerb and the side of the road is bordered by concrete posts and a chain. Passing to the left of the cushions (which arrive in tandem with a traffic island pinch point) and leaving the door open for a motorist is practically suicidal. I deliberately follow cars along this section as protection. Today, unfortunately, I get overtaken by a motorbike. At a pinch point. With five or six inches of clearance. But only because I dive left. The motorcyclist then takes up a position following the car, just to the right of primary for the next couple of hundred yards.
The next fifteen minutes are entirely normal. An unpleasant ride in the company of muppets through Camberwell. Then I get to the end of the Walworth Road. Where a BMW nearly takes me out on the approach to a set of lights. I'm travelling slowly in primary in the bus lane to mitigate against exactly what happens. As I pass the almost stationary BMW the driver decides not to pull up behind the vehicle in front but whips the wheel round and moves into the bus lane. I push myself off the headlamp cluster to shouts of 'He nearly got him!' from the scaffolding above. At the stop line I turn and shout 'You have mirrors and indicators. Use either one of them!' A short while later there is beep. A woman sticks her head out of the window and says. 'Sorry,but I didn't see you.' It's not an apology, but a whining justification. I'm no longer in the mood for a gracious response and respond accordingly.
I have a clear run to Elephant and Castle (150 yds) and find myself alone in the ASL. This ASL must be 60 feet wide. There is no other traffic waiting behind me and I wait in primary ahead of the first right turn lane. After a short while I'm joined by a motorcyclist. To my left. About eight inches away. I have a suspicion. Two actually. I resolve to wait and see. As the lights change he guns it and then chops right across two lanes to clip the apex with his foot down. I was right on both counts. I knew what he was going to do and he was therefore a cock.
A hundred yards further on and I'm Rossied by yet another motorcyclist pulling right to left across my front wheel with an inch to spare on the entry to the E&C roundabout. He also shakes his beans at me.
Half a mile later I met another motorcyclist. He rode well in a calm, considerate, unobtrusive manner. He kind of stood out.
Aaaaaaargh.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 May, 2011, 04:19:43 pm
Just as a bit of traffic information, I saw the aftermath of an incident on Southwark St today.  Looked like a motorcyclist down.  Traffic was chaotic, as they were being diverted, and Borough High St is still closed.

Anyone who needs to pass through the area, do take care.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Speshact on 27 May, 2011, 04:23:42 pm
(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4cQsp6w44QI/Td-7E5xx4zI/AAAAAAAAA8o/xGlvdzOD40E/s320/Photo3957.jpg)

(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RfePpHe60Mg/Td-7TVuGbXI/AAAAAAAAA8w/_KRsj4IOKGo/s320/Photo3955.jpg)

I've no idea how the driver managed to do that!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 May, 2011, 04:25:31 pm
Impressive.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 27 May, 2011, 04:36:01 pm
As it seems to be the season when motorcyclists get silly, I'll add this.

Between Kingston and Hampton Court this morning. There's an on road cycle lane (mandatory in rush hour). I'm in it.

Motorcyclist goes past me at about 40. Really close, and unnecessarily so, there is nothing behind him and nothing coming the other way. I was to the right of the 3' wide cycle lane and I think if I had been on the edge he might have clipped me.

Anyhow, he nearly did clip me, or rather, the golf clubs he was carrying athwartships nearly clipped me.

How on earth do you carry something like that on a motorbike and forget that they're there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 27 May, 2011, 04:41:32 pm
Quote from: Speshact on 27 May, 2011, 04:23:42 pm
(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4cQsp6w44QI/Td-7E5xx4zI/AAAAAAAAA8o/xGlvdzOD40E/s320/Photo3957.jpg)

(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RfePpHe60Mg/Td-7TVuGbXI/AAAAAAAAA8w/_KRsj4IOKGo/s320/Photo3955.jpg)

I've no idea how the driver managed to do that!

If you hold a ham sandwich out of the driver's window in one of those, the wheels on the opposite side will lift.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 27 May, 2011, 04:51:39 pm
Love it Spesh!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 May, 2011, 04:54:53 pm
What did your students say?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Speshact on 27 May, 2011, 05:12:21 pm
Quote from: clarion on 27 May, 2011, 04:54:53 pm
What did your students say?

To be honest it wasn't that different to most of the pavement parking/obstruction around there, except that the car was much smaller than most of the traffic the kids had to dodge!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 May, 2011, 09:50:53 pm
I had a great ride home - through backstreets of Southwark and Lambeth to Clapham Common, then a play round some streets near Northcote Road till it was time for her to finish, when we met up and rode home together. :D

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 28 May, 2011, 11:26:09 am
Quote from: hatler on 27 May, 2011, 11:59:59 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 27 May, 2011, 11:50:29 am
Erm, you breathed in bacteria from the sewage?

But I'd have thought I'd be more likely to come down with a gut infection than a sore throat. More like food poisoning. Yes ?

The sewage will contain, amongst other stuff, streptococci bacteria which vehicle wheels will have thrown up in spray form. You breath in the mix and  sore throat. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Streptococcal_pharyngitis) You would however be unlikely to ingest enough other stuff to get the stomach upset.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 31 May, 2011, 09:43:42 am
Today's POD (potential organ donor) on a BSO was riding along a bus lane when he encountered a bus that had stopped to take on passengers, so he began to overtake it. Then said bus started indicating its intention to start moving, so what does our POD do? Ride past the stationary bus and continue on his way?  No, he stops dead in the right hand lane with several bikes behind him having to brake/swerve to avoid piling into his rear wheel. As the bus was still not moving at this point, most of us swerved past and carried on quite happily.  Not sure what happened to Mr Pod but I hope he made it to work in one piece.

Rant over
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 31 May, 2011, 09:57:43 am
I had a great ride in with Butterfly on her soot bike and me on fixed.  Sunny and zoomy.  I think half term has cleared a lot of traffic off the roads, which is great.  Only downsides were an emergency ambulance (not on a call) did a ridiculously close pass on Carshalton Road.  I would have caught up and had a chance to discuss it, but they obviously did get a shout, so lit up the blue lights, set the siren going, and were off before I could get to them.  Or perhaps they were just trying to get away from me? ;D

Second was at Tooting Broadway, where a car decided to turn right just as I was overtaking.  True, they were indicating, but only because they must have knocked the lever when they turned the wheel.  I got away, though.

Third was a bus who pulled alongside then started pulling in.  Bloody annoying, but I understand it's hard to negotiate a bus length space among the cyclists these days.  I held back and tried to come round the back of the bus, but the rest of the riders were in the way a bit.  Not an issue, really.

Pretty fast, too, overall.  Flowed well, where I hadn't expected it to, after a weekend of slow touring. :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 31 May, 2011, 10:21:45 am
Quote from: Speshact on 27 May, 2011, 04:23:42 pm
(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4cQsp6w44QI/Td-7E5xx4zI/AAAAAAAAA8o/xGlvdzOD40E/s320/Photo3957.jpg)

(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RfePpHe60Mg/Td-7TVuGbXI/AAAAAAAAA8w/_KRsj4IOKGo/s320/Photo3955.jpg)

And the view of that from my desk (maximum zoom on iPhone):-

(http://www.greenbank.org/misc/niceparking.jpg)

So was that you on Upper Ground on that Friday morning teaching them to turn right in to Cornwall Road? I'll stop and say hello next time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 31 May, 2011, 11:07:57 am
 >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 31 May, 2011, 05:11:54 pm
Spotted a large car completely blocking the footway & non segregated shared farcility today.  Closer inspection revealed the vehicle to be a  Bentley.

I did derive some comfort from the TFL 'authorised for removal ' sticker though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 31 May, 2011, 07:33:00 pm
Marvellous.

I had a swift ride home this evening, almost unaffected by numpties in motor vehicles, though there were an awful lot of sirens.

There was one mild contretemps, but with a cyclist.  We were waiting at the lights at Clapham North station, when a car with flashing blue lights and a siren going appeared way behind.  It was making its way through the queue, so I decided to move forward out of the ASL and to the side, so there was space for the cars to part and let the Police through.  To do so, I put myself in front of the strongest rider of the group, who was a big chap on a Condor.  'Ahem' he said loudly, as the lights were just then changing.  I sped off to get out of the way of him and the Police, and didn't see him again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 31 May, 2011, 09:07:07 pm
I had an interesting "event" on the way in this morning, going down the last part of the hill after the traffic lights at the bottom of Cedars Road (http://maps.google.co.uk/?ie=UTF8&ll=51.467124,-0.150627&spn=0.001106,0.002411&t=h&z=19&layer=c&cbll=51.467012,-0.150631&panoid=_uEuxmoD-FEWWZyFPOk0-A&cbp=12,4.66,,0,8.71), a kid on a bicycle cycled out from behind a van.

I came with inches of hitting him directly side on and launching myself into flight.  Somehow, and I still don't know how, hacking the brakes on and skidding, I just about managed to get around him, stay upright, and only lightly knocked his front wheel.

Have they stopped teaching people the basics of how to cross a road?  The number of times I come close to hitting people who walk out from behind something like a van or bus is ridiculous, although this is the first time anyway has actually cycled out from such a location.

I'd generally avoid crossing a road from such a place, but if I had to, I'd very very carefully look around before stepping out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 31 May, 2011, 09:08:53 pm
Two numpty blind bend overtakes today, one AM and one PM.

Makes me want to get a camera.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 31 May, 2011, 09:15:57 pm
Cathartic, brisk, long way home tonight.  Needed that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 31 May, 2011, 09:26:02 pm
Grrr.  Threw the chain  by leg-braking too hard for some lights and it wrapped itself in a tight little formation between the sprocket and the hub. Cue some 20 minutes of easing it back and forward, getting filthy, before I could liberate it. Then, of course, I didn't tighten the nuts quite enough and promptly jammed the tyre against the stays as soon as I went to move off. Doh!

The remainder of the ride was gentle  O:-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 31 May, 2011, 09:45:46 pm
Half term grandma cover means I got to ride both ways. The sun was shining and everyone behaved. Lovely.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 31 May, 2011, 10:28:33 pm
Earlier than usual start and half term meant empty roads - cracking ride in!
Windy homeward leg but sunny and just the right temperature so still managed a reasonably decent time....
Over 1000 commuting km for the month for the first time in a while.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 31 May, 2011, 10:55:29 pm
Larger gear made the dash through the lights less spinny than usual.  Same old same old. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 01 June, 2011, 12:43:05 am
Lovely ride home with a tailwind. Something was making a noise on the bike, I suspected a loose cable tie flicking on the wheel. No matter, bike is running well.

Pull up in yard, look down - there is a thumb tack smack in the centre of the tyre. The 'tick tick' noise explained - I'd had it for 20miles or so.

I do like these tyres - the lowish pressures meant it hadn't leaked at all.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 01 June, 2011, 07:45:25 am
Grumble, bloody top-dressing, grumble, make sure the sodding stuff is fixed properly you idle sons of ..... *cough* sorry  wrong thread.

Was wondering why I was finding it such hard work this morning.  In the end stopped to check that brakes weren't binding.  They weren't, but there was a lump of gravel from the top dressing wedged between back tyre and the mudguard.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 01 June, 2011, 08:03:19 am
They’ve top dressed one of my “extended ride home” roads.  The bastards!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 June, 2011, 08:42:44 am
Early start this morning and half term meant the roads were pretty clear for Butterfly & me.  We really zoomed, hitting an average somewhere north of 24.5kph at one point. 

We came across a complete closure of the A3 at Stockwell - taped all the way across, footpaths included.  I just found out that it is following another fatal shooting last night :(

Butterfly & I modified our ride, and used the cycle route through the back to Oval, where she turned back (and was probably still at work very early) and I pressed on, to be first at work (just), having covered an extra 2km en route.  I finished with a 23.9kph average, which is very good for a commute. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 01 June, 2011, 08:58:08 am
Working from home so mine was again virtual. 10 mile spin through the common, saw a Great Spotted Woodpecker, magpies, rabbits and a family of Canada Geese by the pond.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 01 June, 2011, 09:02:15 am
The rim split on my rear wheel, 6miles from work.
Tyre didn't blow out until I was 50 yards from work. Considerate of it.

Best sources for 559 rims, anyone?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 01 June, 2011, 09:05:50 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 01 June, 2011, 09:02:15 am
The rim split on my rear wheel, 6miles from work.
Tyre didn't blow out until I was 50 yards from work. Considerate of it.

Best sources for 559 rims, anyone?

Eeek!  Glad it was your rear wheel.  I've just lost faith in riding on my HED front rim, measured at 0.8mm on one side and 1mm on the other, especially since one hill on my commute has me at 40-45mph daily.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 01 June, 2011, 10:46:33 am
Decided as I woke early after not getting to sleep til late to take the long way in (27km).  Not done this before (always tend to go the long way home).  Went out through Fulbourn, the Wilbrahams, Bottisham, Lode, then back towards town via Quy, down the A1303 where I was told about the cycle path (yeah I know, and piss off), right down Newmarket Road to the Wall of Death, over Elizabeth Way bridge, up Milton Road to work.  Averaged 29.0kph, would have been a shade higher but for the traffic lights.

Got into work earlier than usual, and feeling more awake, and happier, than I have for some time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 June, 2011, 10:58:19 am
I hear on the travel news that the A3 (CS7) Clapham Road at Stockwell is still closed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ScumOfTheRoad on 01 June, 2011, 11:48:02 am
Clarion, what has happened? I really, really hope against hope that it is not another cyclist killed by a lorry.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 June, 2011, 11:50:08 am
No.  There was a fatal shooting last night (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-13612354). :(

Quote from: clarion on 01 June, 2011, 08:42:44 am
We came across a complete closure of the A3 at Stockwell - taped all the way across, footpaths included.  I just found out that it is following another fatal shooting last night :(


Trying hard not to sound like the news reports for which the most important factor of a cyclist down is the disruption to traffic, I'm keeping an ear to the traffic reports to see if I need to divert tonight.  I'm awfully glad I passed through early, because that must have been chaos later.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 01 June, 2011, 02:09:43 pm
Quote from: clarion on 01 June, 2011, 11:50:08 am
No.  There was a fatal shooting last night (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-13612354). :(

Quote from: clarion on 01 June, 2011, 08:42:44 am
We came across a complete closure of the A3 at Stockwell - taped all the way across, footpaths included.  I just found out that it is following another fatal shooting last night :(


Trying hard not to sound like the news reports for which the most important factor of a cyclist down is the disruption to traffic, I'm keeping an ear to the traffic reports to see if I need to divert tonight.  I'm awfully glad I passed through early, because that must have been chaos later.

That was the part of my old commute (to Clapham Library) that I hated but then discovered a wonderful NCN route which starts around here Streetmap - Maps and directions for the whole of Great Britain (http://www.streetmap.co.uk/map.srf?x=530893&y=177145&z=110&sv=530893,177145&st=4&ar=y&mapp=map.srf&searchp=ids.srf&dn=713&ax=530893&ay=177145&lm=0). Am not sure how feasible it is for you Clarion but I used to love this deviation (especially for gawping at all the lovely houses  ;D).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 June, 2011, 02:15:02 pm
If it's the route I'm thinking of (North of the A3), it's one that Butterfly introduced me to, and I used this morning from Jeffreys Road all the way up to work.  Sometimes we've used it to get to Battersea, and, on Friday evenings when I've had some time to kill, I've ridden that way to make a leisurely way from E&C to Clapham Junction without going through Vauxhall.

It's a bit frustrating because of the number of turns and give ways, but it has certainly improved in the time I've known it with reroutes and changed priorities.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 01 June, 2011, 03:01:02 pm
Quote from: clarion on 01 June, 2011, 02:15:02 pm
If it's the route I'm thinking of (North of the A3), it's one that Butterfly introduced me to, and I used this morning from Jeffreys Road all the way up to work.  Sometimes we've used it to get to Battersea, and, on Friday evenings when I've had some time to kill, I've ridden that way to make a leisurely way from E&C to Clapham Junction without going through Vauxhall.

It's a bit frustrating because of the number of turns and give ways, but it has certainly improved in the time I've known it with reroutes and changed priorities.

It sounds like the one, I used to use Larkhall rise to get to the library, it has a nice little climb :thumbsup: The route is rather twisty-turny but I think its one of those key link routes which is what I love about NCN - plus its well used too  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 June, 2011, 03:02:47 pm
Yes.  It's a route that works, pretty much (though the Clapham Common end is a bit frayed), and people do use it.  Not for me most of the time, but it may see me again.

Butterfly used to live & work somewhere on that route, btw.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 01 June, 2011, 03:47:24 pm
Quote from: clarion on 01 June, 2011, 03:02:47 pm
Yes.  It's a route that works, pretty much (though the Clapham Common end is a bit frayed), and people do use it.  Not for me most of the time, but it may see me again.

Butterfly used to live & work somewhere on that route, btw.

Really! I call it my Lambeth Libraries route as it linked neatly all four of the libraries that I used to work at  ;D

There is a delightful place called Albert Square just off the A3 and its where the gorgeous Joanna Lumley lives. That was a really nice little cut through to get onto the South Lambeth Road  :thumbsup:

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 June, 2011, 03:48:38 pm
A forumite lives just by there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 01 June, 2011, 03:51:59 pm
Quote from: clarion on 01 June, 2011, 03:48:38 pm
A forumite lives just by there.

This forumite was born in Jeffreys Road and has friends with a flat in Albert Square  :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 June, 2011, 03:56:51 pm
With your typical Sarf Lahndan name, how could anyone have thought otherwise? ;D

Actually, I didn't know that; I thought you were born further out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 01 June, 2011, 05:18:46 pm
Quote from: TimO on 31 May, 2011, 09:07:07 pm
I had an interesting "event" on the way in this morning, going down the last part of the hill after the traffic lights at the bottom of Cedars Road (http://maps.google.co.uk/?ie=UTF8&ll=51.467124,-0.150627&spn=0.001106,0.002411&t=h&z=19&layer=c&cbll=51.467012,-0.150631&panoid=_uEuxmoD-FEWWZyFPOk0-A&cbp=12,4.66,,0,8.71), a kid on a bicycle cycled out from behind a van.

I came with inches of hitting him directly side on and launching myself into flight.  Somehow, and I still don't know how, hacking the brakes on and skidding, I just about managed to get around him, stay upright, and only lightly knocked his front wheel.

Have they stopped teaching people the basics of how to cross a road?  The number of times I come close to hitting people who walk out from behind something like a van or bus is ridiculous, although this is the first time anyway has actually cycled out from such a location.

I'd generally avoid crossing a road from such a place, but if I had to, I'd very very carefully look around before stepping out.

Another child did exactly the same thing today, although located halfway along Cavendish Road instead.

I'll be glad when half term is over. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 01 June, 2011, 05:21:35 pm
Quote from: TimO on 01 June, 2011, 05:18:46 pm
Quote from: TimO on 31 May, 2011, 09:07:07 pm
I had an interesting "event" on the way in this morning, going down the last part of the hill after the traffic lights at the bottom of Cedars Road (http://maps.google.co.uk/?ie=UTF8&ll=51.467124,-0.150627&spn=0.001106,0.002411&t=h&z=19&layer=c&cbll=51.467012,-0.150631&panoid=_uEuxmoD-FEWWZyFPOk0-A&cbp=12,4.66,,0,8.71), a kid on a bicycle cycled out from behind a van.

I came with inches of hitting him directly side on and launching myself into flight.  Somehow, and I still don't know how, hacking the brakes on and skidding, I just about managed to get around him, stay upright, and only lightly knocked his front wheel.

Have they stopped teaching people the basics of how to cross a road?  The number of times I come close to hitting people who walk out from behind something like a van or bus is ridiculous, although this is the first time anyway has actually cycled out from such a location.

I'd generally avoid crossing a road from such a place, but if I had to, I'd very very carefully look around before stepping out.

Another child did exactly the same thing today, although located halfway along Cavendish Road instead.

I'll be glad when half term is over. :-\

Bring on electric cars, natural selection should sort em all out!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 01 June, 2011, 05:28:25 pm
I had a bin man walk out in front of me in Fulbourn this morning. He stood waiting for oncoming traffic.  He waited until I was close then stepped out in front of me and stopped in front of me because the oncoming traffic was *still there*. I was forced to brake hard at which point he had a go at me "You could see I'd stepped out". Idiot. I may have used stronger language at the time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 01 June, 2011, 05:36:44 pm
Quote from: TimO on 01 June, 2011, 05:18:46 pm
Quote from: TimO on 31 May, 2011, 09:07:07 pm
I had an interesting "event" on the way in this morning, going down the last part of the hill after the traffic lights at the bottom of Cedars Road (http://maps.google.co.uk/?ie=UTF8&ll=51.467124,-0.150627&spn=0.001106,0.002411&t=h&z=19&layer=c&cbll=51.467012,-0.150631&panoid=_uEuxmoD-FEWWZyFPOk0-A&cbp=12,4.66,,0,8.71), a kid on a bicycle cycled out from behind a van.


I came with inches of hitting him directly side on and launching myself into flight.  Somehow, and I still don't know how, hacking the brakes on and skidding, I just about managed to get around him, stay upright, and only lightly knocked his front wheel.
Have they stopped teaching people the basics of how to cross a road?  The number of times I come close to hitting people who walk out from behind something like a van or bus is ridiculous, although this is the first time anyway has actually cycled out from such a location.

I'd generally avoid crossing a road from such a place, but if I had to, I'd very very carefully look around before stepping out.
Another child did exactly the same thing today, although located halfway along Cavendish Road instead.
I'll be glad when half term is over. :-\
I was a member of the Tufty Club and I remember it being quite popular in the sixties.  I don't see any road safety programme quite as high profile nowadays. Although Tufty is still around, I believe.  Our instructions for crossing safely began with the sentence. " First, find a safe place where there are no parked cars.". This was still easy to do in the 60's, even in the inner city, where I grew up. I'm guessing it's impossible now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Domestique on 01 June, 2011, 05:44:06 pm
A young woman with a pushchair looked directly at me then pushed her chair and baby directly in front of me  >:(
WTF  :hand:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 01 June, 2011, 05:53:22 pm
Quote from: Domestique on 01 June, 2011, 05:44:06 pm
A young woman with a pushchair looked directly at me then pushed her chair and baby directly in front of me  >:(
WTF  :hand:

You must have accidentally donned your invisibility cloak this morning.
I can't believe how many moron peds are around at the moment, must be the summer that brings them out or something.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 01 June, 2011, 09:32:22 pm
Heckled by a pedestrian for RLJing and pavement cycling. While I waited at the traffic lights by the OKR.

He then did the same to the girl who had pulled up behind me, who promptly declaimed "why are you talking to me, it was him!"

I'm still waiting at the lights. There is possibly an alternate reality where I am cycling down the pavement through an endless series of red traffic lights, but not in this one.

Judging by my heckler, this alternate reality is accessed through the medium of Special Brew.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 01 June, 2011, 10:09:55 pm
Quote from: ian on 01 June, 2011, 09:32:22 pm
Heckled by a pedestrian for RLJing and pavement cycling. While I waited at the traffic lights by the OKR.

He then did the same to the girl who had pulled up behind me, who promptly declaimed "why are you talking to me, it was him!"

I'm still waiting at the lights. There is possibly an alternate reality where I am cycling down the pavement through an endless series of red traffic lights, but not in this one.

Judging by my heckler, this alternate reality is accessed through the medium of Special Brew.


Welcome to the OKR  :P I know neither of us need it - we've both been there before...  
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 June, 2011, 08:23:18 am
I get that a fair bit, though I don't often ride the OKR (life's short enough without using motorways).  I wonder whether your interlocutor has a counterpart in Kennington.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 02 June, 2011, 08:57:57 am
Quote from: jane on 01 June, 2011, 05:36:44 pm
Quote from: TimO on 01 June, 2011, 05:18:46 pm
Quote from: TimO on 31 May, 2011, 09:07:07 pm
I had an interesting "event" on the way in this morning, going down the last part of the hill after the traffic lights at the bottom of Cedars Road (http://maps.google.co.uk/?ie=UTF8&ll=51.467124,-0.150627&spn=0.001106,0.002411&t=h&z=19&layer=c&cbll=51.467012,-0.150631&panoid=_uEuxmoD-FEWWZyFPOk0-A&cbp=12,4.66,,0,8.71), a kid on a bicycle cycled out from behind a van.


I came with inches of hitting him directly side on and launching myself into flight.  Somehow, and I still don't know how, hacking the brakes on and skidding, I just about managed to get around him, stay upright, and only lightly knocked his front wheel.
Have they stopped teaching people the basics of how to cross a road?  The number of times I come close to hitting people who walk out from behind something like a van or bus is ridiculous, although this is the first time anyway has actually cycled out from such a location.

I'd generally avoid crossing a road from such a place, but if I had to, I'd very very carefully look around before stepping out.
Another child did exactly the same thing today, although located halfway along Cavendish Road instead.
I'll be glad when half term is over. :-\
I was a member of the Tufty Club and I remember it being quite popular in the sixties.  I don't see any road safety programme quite as high profile nowadays. Although Tufty is still around, I believe.  Our instructions for crossing safely began with the sentence. " First, find a safe place where there are no parked cars.". This was still easy to do in the 60's, even in the inner city, where I grew up. I'm guessing it's impossible now.

It's all about cost cutting. So few chilblains are actually allowed to walk by their parents these days that Tufty or The Green Cross Man are not value for money.

We'd be better off teaching them to drive and banning their twattish parents from the driving seats of their 'tanks'.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 02 June, 2011, 09:16:19 am
london bridge was part-closed at 8:45 this morning, ambulance helicopter landing on the street, a person lying on the road - let's hope he/she will survive whatever happened. grim start of the day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 June, 2011, 09:25:12 am
Ooh - that sounds bad. 

Last night, the A3 was still closed at Stockwell.  Grim too, as I don't expect they close such a major road through two rush hours unless there's a very good reason.  Traffic was building up badly, and I wouldn't have wanted to struggle up through Brixton & Streatham, which are pretty congested at the best of times.  I hope the Police get all the evidence they need for a successful prosecution of the killer.

This morning, the road was open again.  I rode in with Butterfly all the way to my work and we managed an average of 24.1kph, which is good for me, and excellent for Butterfly.  She had more time before work, so rode on over the river and round.

Sunny day, quieter roads.  It's great.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 02 June, 2011, 09:47:14 am
It was reported as a ride by machine gun shooting (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-13624948)

This tends to suggest a potentially large scene to deal with.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 02 June, 2011, 09:47:35 am
Waiting at a give way to turn right with a stream of cars coming from the left. One of them, not turning, stopped and waved me over in front of him. Happens rarely enough when I'm in a car. Ta very much. Someone's unplugged the fan and put the blue light  in the sky back on as well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 02 June, 2011, 09:49:44 am
I'm getting unaccustomed exhibitions of civility at a particular right turn onto a larger road as well at the moment.

Go figure :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 June, 2011, 09:56:54 am
Quote from: fuzzy on 02 June, 2011, 09:47:14 am
It was reported as a ride by machine gun shooting (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-13624948)

This tends to suggest a potentially large scene to deal with.



Oh that's terrible.  I figured there would be a lot of evidence to examine. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 02 June, 2011, 10:48:40 am
Rode 42.31km in 1h30m11s, which is precisely the same time as yesterday morning (and no, I haven't mixed up my gpx files :))

Ooh, and passed 7000km YTD.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 02 June, 2011, 10:54:53 am
Quote from: zigzag on 02 June, 2011, 09:16:19 am
london bridge was part-closed at 8:45 this morning, ambulance helicopter landing on the street, a person lying on the road - let's hope he/she will survive whatever happened. grim start of the day.

That's about 5 minutes after I came across but I didn't see anything. It wouldn't surprise me though - the critical mass benefit of having a large number of cyclists using the bridge is unfortunately outweighed by some incredibly dangerous / brainless riding, which is not a good idea if you're mxing it with buses and dumper trucks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 June, 2011, 11:07:11 am
Some confusion about this incident it seems - some reports motorcyclist and cyclist.  Some say motorcyclist and pedestrian.

Meanwhile, someone on LFGSS reports a woman cyclist hit by a van on Blackfriars Bridge this morning.  Not too serious, but def injured, apparently.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 02 June, 2011, 11:09:18 am
London Bridge appeared to be still be closed at 1030 - at least the lights at the North end were being controlled by police
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 02 June, 2011, 11:18:16 am
Quote from: Redlight on 02 June, 2011, 10:54:53 am
Quote from: zigzag on 02 June, 2011, 09:16:19 am
london bridge was part-closed at 8:45 this morning, ambulance helicopter landing on the street, a person lying on the road - let's hope he/she will survive whatever happened. grim start of the day.

That's about 5 minutes after I came across but I didn't see anything. It wouldn't surprise me though - the critical mass benefit of having a large number of cyclists using the bridge is unfortunately outweighed by some incredibly dangerous / brainless riding, which is not a good idea if you're mxing it with buses and dumper trucks.

it must have happened just after you've passed and the air ambulance response was immediate. i was approaching the junction and saw the traffic moving in the front, but when the light turned red i stopped and saw the helicopter landing. they were just closing the junction at that time for safe landing. if this (http://www.london-se1.co.uk/news/view/5320) article is correct it was pedestrian/motorbike accident.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 June, 2011, 11:31:56 am
Two possible reports of cyclists down today - both on bridges.

Now, I don't know the details of either incident, but I note that I got an email from LCC this morning asking me to sign up to the petition to the London Assembly members, trying to persuade them to support a motion regarding retaining the 20mph limit at Blackfriars Bridge, as recommended in a TfL report in 2008, ignored by Boris Johnson.

Whatever the circumstances, applying a 20mph limit to all London Bridges could only improve safety for all road users, not just cyclists.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 02 June, 2011, 01:07:48 pm
There is also talk of making the entire City (which would include London & Blackfriars Bridges and half of Southwark Bridge) 20mph.  This I welcome.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 June, 2011, 01:10:16 pm
Well, it could happen, and it would help, so I'd be all for it.  Where have those proposals come from?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 02 June, 2011, 01:15:59 pm
Quote
A woman pedestrian was injured in a collison with a motorcyclist at the south end of London Bridge on Thursday morning.

I remember one pedestrian colliding into a lady cyclist at that crossing section. This hirsuite pedestrian gave this look as if to say 'not the ensemble'  ::-)

I hate Tooley Street for this - pedestrians are trying to escape the train/tube station to get onto the bridge and its absolutely manic. Am hoping that with the re-design of London Bridge station that this may be addressed.

Clarion - maybe those proposals (re: 20mph lmit) come from Jenny Jones?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 02 June, 2011, 01:21:45 pm
Quote from: clarion on 02 June, 2011, 01:10:16 pm
Well, it could happen, and it would help, so I'd be all for it.  Where have those proposals come from?

I saw it mentioned in a Blackfriards Bridge email yesterday, but have managed to find an article about it:
 City wants 20mph limit in bid to save cyclists' lives | News (http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard/article-23936332-city-wants-20mph-limit-in-bid-to-save-cyclists-lives.do)
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 June, 2011, 01:56:13 pm
Fifth of London commuters take over an hour to get to work - Evening Standard (http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard/article-23955855-commuters-in-the-capital-get-worst-deal-in-britain.do)

Yeah.  I hate it when it takes more than an hour to get to work.  Means that motor traffic has delayed me for an extra three minutes. ;D

Quote
London workers are suffering "nightmare" long commutes in appallingly overcrowded carriages, official figures reveal today.

They show that hundreds of thousands in the capital's centre - one in five travellers - are forced to endure gruelling journeys of more than an hour.

Poor things.  If only there were a way to enjoy getting to work... ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 02 June, 2011, 02:00:47 pm
My 20-minute commute is too short.  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 02 June, 2011, 08:52:14 pm
I've finally had enough of the small person that drives a very large silver BMW - VN58XXM.  
For the past 12 months or more at least once a week our direction of travel would cause him to push past on the most narrow of sections and normally quite often at speed.  He is very impatient.

Tonight coming home he flew past me on a straight stretch of narrow lane.  Totally irresponsibly.  So I decided to go into the village where I believed he lived and to find his car parked on his drive.  Luckily it was a small village so it didn't take long.

I made a show of getting out my Blackberry, looking at his car, tapping on my keys, looking back, tapping some more, looking back and back again.  He didn't appear but I didn't bother to scour the windows to see if he had noticed me.

Stage one complete.

Secondly, continuing with Zone2 training.  Humiliatingly I was overtaken while going up Caen Hill by a chap on a MTB.  Oh the shame.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gerwinium on 02 June, 2011, 08:56:39 pm
Got stuck waiting for a bunch of young kids and mothers + prams to pass on the stairs of the Greenwich tunnel. I'm afraid that is as adventurous as my 25 minute commute gets. Lots of school kids around at the moment though.

Anyone know if there's a date when the stairs in the Greenwich tunnel will fully re-open? They seem to take a lot longer than originally promised.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 June, 2011, 09:02:03 pm
Damn good ride again this evening.  80km so far this month, with 23.5kph average.  Splendid. :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Canardly on 02 June, 2011, 09:24:23 pm
Tut its ok for you part timers....... O:-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 02 June, 2011, 09:50:03 pm
Damn good ride this evening.  50km at 28kph on the Pompino in what can only be described as glorious weather.

Happy times.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 02 June, 2011, 09:51:20 pm
I think since doing my first fixed SR (and 15.25AAA in the process) my ability to muscle up hills on a 71” gear has improved enormously.  Woo.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 03 June, 2011, 01:10:38 am
Finished building my new bike yesterday (thursday) and tested it by... riding it the full 8.5 miles home.  This was interesting.  I discovered that a) I can build up a bike quite reliably but b) the seat-post bolt was broken, with the result that my arse got closer to the ground as the trip progressed.  A shim will see me to the nearest LBS.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 June, 2011, 08:23:48 am
Last early morning this week.  Butterfly again rode in with me all the way to work.  Well, she got there first, but I hadn't told her that I stop filtering when I'm in the queue for E&C - it's not worth the hassle.

Really zoomed this morning, though, covering the trip to work in 51 minutes.  And, with Butterfly on her sootbike, I could hare away from the lights, catch the RLJers, ride ahead of the big boys, then ease off ever so slightly for her to catch up.  Great fun.  I think several road bike riders will be arriving at work with shrunken willies after having been scalped by a gurl. ;D  A few of them resorted to jumping red lights, presumably to avoid being left behind again. :-\

25.5kph average.  Very happy with that.  Shame that half term is over next week, and I shall be back riding at my normal, congested, time :(

As an aside, I had hoped that, coming through earlier, I might have seen itsbruce at Stockwell, but sadly that didn't happen. :(

Three days of fun, though.  I wonder how many motor commuters get to their destination and think 'I enjoyed that.  Wish it was a bit further.'? ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 03 June, 2011, 08:31:04 am
A wash of blue linseed flowers in a couple of fields.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 03 June, 2011, 09:27:03 am
Quote from: Grub on 02 June, 2011, 08:52:14 pm
I've finally had enough of the small person that drives a very large silver BMW - VN58XXM.  
For the past 12 months or more at least once a week our direction of travel would cause him to push past on the most narrow of sections and normally quite often at speed.  He is very impatient.

Tonight coming home he flew past me on a straight stretch of narrow lane.  Totally irresponsibly.  So I decided to go into the village where I believed he lived and to find his car parked on his drive.  Luckily it was a small village so it didn't take long.

I made a show of getting out my Blackberry, looking at his car, tapping on my keys, looking back, tapping some more, looking back and back again.  He didn't appear but I didn't bother to scour the windows to see if he had noticed me.

Stage one complete.


I do hope stage two involves a warrant card!


Yesterday: While walking to the the station (oh, the shame) I saw something truly shocking: two London Dynamo riders... stopped at a red light!  They were talking to a few other roadies, so one could assume that peer pressure made them do it.  Carrying on toward Whitechapel I noticed there were quite a number of roadies heading out of town.  Very unusual.  It was when I saw a quartet of cyclists in full LMNH kit that it struck me — they must of have been heading out to Hog Hill.  Really must head up there one of these days.

Today: Great ride in, easily hitting 40kph without giving it my all.  Yes, I had a tailwind.  Average speed this morning was just over 25kph; would love to stay above that number on the way home.  I also learned something this morning: I don't like how the Elorrio handles bumpy roads at over 35kph — it bounces around too much.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 June, 2011, 09:28:58 am
Quote from: Andrij on 03 June, 2011, 09:27:03 am
Yesterday: While walking to the the station (oh, the shame) I saw something truly shocking: two London Dynamo riders... stopped at a red light! 

Pics or it didn't happen!

Quote
Today: Great ride in, easily hitting 40kph without giving it my all.  Yes, I had a tailwind.  Average speed this morning was just over 25kph;

:thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 03 June, 2011, 10:09:18 am
A thank you, sir! To the chap on a road bike I followed this morning. You may not have realised you were pacing me and I'm sure you could have dropped me in an instant if you'd wanted, but I got a much needed workout!  :thumbsup:

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 03 June, 2011, 10:12:48 am
Nice pacy commute, this morning.  Gazelle Champion Mondials are smashing bikes to ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 03 June, 2011, 11:12:40 am
Autopilot so found myself on the way to old office. Had to ride up Milton road. 20mph into a headwind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 03 June, 2011, 11:15:15 am
A passenger tried to throw some water on me:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lTftR1igu44 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lTftR1igu44)

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 03 June, 2011, 11:23:01 am
Tapering in prep for next weekend's 600km. Did 85km at 28.7kph yesterday, so going to stick to <57km from today on, and probably a day off, all in the middle ring. Kept the average below 25kph this morning. Got into an argument with someone over whether bikes were allowed on a bridleway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 03 June, 2011, 11:26:58 am
brought the bike into work on the train this morning, I think it may be a longer route home (than the direct 15.5miles)  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 03 June, 2011, 11:47:51 am
When I arrived at the station this morning, there was a young cycling enthusiast admiring the contents of the bike racks. He seemed particularly interested in the lock on one of the bikes, no doubt impressed by the ingenious way its owner had used it to secure the bike to the rack. Strangely, though, he seemed to become quite shy when he noticed me, as if it were somehow shameful to be so interested in bikes.

I was in a rush to get my train or I might have stopped to have a reassuring word with him myself, but I mentioned him to the station staff and suggested that they should tell him it's quite OK to show a healthy interest in such a noble pursuit as cycling. Two of them went off to his assistance immediately. Bravo, chaps, very charitable of you!

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 June, 2011, 11:52:17 am
I hope that he has been given the chance to discuss his interest with some people in authority.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 03 June, 2011, 11:54:25 am
Quote from: Grub on 02 June, 2011, 08:52:14 pm
I've finally had enough of the small person that drives a very large silver BMW - VN58XXM.  
For the past 12 months or more at least once a week our direction of travel would cause him to push past on the most narrow of sections and normally quite often at speed.  He is very impatient.

Tonight coming home he flew past me on a straight stretch of narrow lane.  Totally irresponsibly.  So I decided to go into the village where I believed he lived and to find his car parked on his drive.  Luckily it was a small village so it didn't take long.

I made a show of getting out my Blackberry, looking at his car, tapping on my keys, looking back, tapping some more, looking back and back again.  He didn't appear but I didn't bother to scour the windows to see if he had noticed me.


I think that the YACF posse would give you permission to abuse your warrant card....  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 03 June, 2011, 01:15:43 pm
Quote from: Regulator on 03 June, 2011, 11:54:25 am
Quote from: Grub on 02 June, 2011, 08:52:14 pm
I've finally had enough of the small person that drives a very large silver BMW - VN58XXM.  
For the past 12 months or more at least once a week our direction of travel would cause him to push past on the most narrow of sections and normally quite often at speed.  He is very impatient.

Tonight coming home he flew past me on a straight stretch of narrow lane.  Totally irresponsibly.  So I decided to go into the village where I believed he lived and to find his car parked on his drive.  Luckily it was a small village so it didn't take long.

I made a show of getting out my Blackberry, looking at his car, tapping on my keys, looking back, tapping some more, looking back and back again.  He didn't appear but I didn't bother to scour the windows to see if he had noticed me.


I think that the YACF posse would give you permission to abuse your warrant card....  ;)

FTFY, I believe Grub polices a desk now  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RJ on 03 June, 2011, 02:17:52 pm
Passed 2 of L&BP's finest MTB cops gently patrolling outside the Sick Kids' hospital.  Nice morning and leafy location  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 03 June, 2011, 02:33:13 pm
Quote from: RJ on 03 June, 2011, 02:17:52 pm
Passed 2 of L&BP's finest MTB cops gently patrolling outside the Sick Kids' hospital.  Nice morning and leafy location  ;)

L&BP = Lothian and Borders Police.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 04 June, 2011, 09:14:32 am
After a long day I was pootling home in zone 2 - struggling into a hard headwind - when only 5 miles into the commute a roadie on a Scott and wearing a Discovery top and Chippenham Wheelers chamois appears by my side. 
The day before I was overtaken by a chap on an MTB while we were going up Caen Hill.  Mrs G was already peeved as I was running late having left late - so MTB + late + roadie now = Zone 2 goodbye. 

The next 4 miles were spent in zone 4 with Mr Wheelers as we chatted and rode until our paths split.  As the damage was already done I then ramped it up into Zone 5 and enjoyed my ride home  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 04 June, 2011, 11:38:15 pm
Pleasant, but windy with many plastic bags.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RJ on 04 June, 2011, 11:50:35 pm
Quote from: TimO on 03 June, 2011, 02:33:13 pm
Quote from: RJ on 03 June, 2011, 02:17:52 pm
Passed 2 of L&BP's finest MTB cops gently patrolling outside the Sick Kids' hospital.  Nice morning and leafy location  ;)

L&BP = Lothian and Borders Police.

Yes.  Strathclyde would have been off their beat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Domestique on 05 June, 2011, 09:45:07 am
We where without bikes, but on dog walking duty. 200mts from our friends house walkng her dog two fo Clevelands finest cycled past us on their bikes  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 06 June, 2011, 08:57:26 am
Slighly slower run in than normal, this morning.  Very few other cyclists on the roads, for some reason.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 June, 2011, 09:53:19 am
Couldn't say why that would be... ::-)

Actually, there were still a good few on CS7, despite everything.  Not enough rear mudguards, though.

Stupid queues of motor traffic up towards Mitcham.  But Clapham Common was uncharacteristically clear and free-flowing, for some reason.

Driving standards not as bad as I had expected, although there was a complete bollox of a manoeuvre which we came across and made us all laugh.  Real stupidity.  In a can!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 06 June, 2011, 11:01:35 am
Many many fewer of us this morning. My otherwise soggy trip was made much more enjoyable by the presence of a lovely fair-haired lady on a white hybrid with crud catchers wearing a purple waterproof and black leggings. I must have passed her half a dozen times between Bermondsey and the City only to have her pull alongside me when I, inevitably, got caught at the next set of lights.  The fact she could remain so elegant in such rotten weather brightened my morning no end  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 06 June, 2011, 11:04:12 am
Quote from: Adrian on 28 May, 2011, 11:26:09 am
Quote from: hatler on 27 May, 2011, 11:59:59 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 27 May, 2011, 11:50:29 am
Erm, you breathed in bacteria from the sewage?

But I'd have thought I'd be more likely to come down with a gut infection than a sore throat. More like food poisoning. Yes ?

The sewage will contain, amongst other stuff, streptococci bacteria which vehicle wheels will have thrown up in spray form. You breath in the mix and  sore throat. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Streptococcal_pharyngitis) You would however be unlikely to ingest enough other stuff to get the stomach upset.

Sore throat turned into chest infection. Deep ugly productive cough. Off the bike all of last week and on anti-biotics. Doctor confirmed the theory when I saw her last week. Yuk yukkity yuk.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 06 June, 2011, 12:33:32 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 06 June, 2011, 11:01:35 am
Many many fewer of us this morning.

I'm annoyed with myself. My failure to ride in this morning was nothing to do with the weather but the fact that I was incapable of getting out of bed at a reasonable time. I would have enjoyed a refreshing ride this morning.  :(

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 06 June, 2011, 12:49:38 pm
Back to the commute today after a week off work, and what a delight it was to be back on the Old Kent Road!  The rain was not too bad, and the traffic seemed pretty calm and orderly.  I'm so glad that I resolved last night to ride in regardless of the weather, knowing how much more pleasant it would be than catching the train.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 06 June, 2011, 01:07:11 pm
Soggy ride in brightened by a Clarion&Butterfly/Clarion-solo escort for a bit of the way (in which I partook of said bollox-maneouvre laughter during the former).

Peeled off to assist a broken down pusher.  Very oddly, his rear set-up (insert Clapham Common joke here) seemed to have landed the chain in about gear 6 position where there wasn't a sproket - just a spacer.  The derailleur held the chain resolutely in this position.  His shifter had suffered internal liquification, so I loosened the cable and locked him on the smallest sprocket, which he was delighted with.  And this on a new-ish bike.  From Halfords.  Unbelievable.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 06 June, 2011, 01:13:59 pm
It was just a bit damp.  Showed up the diesel spills nicely though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 06 June, 2011, 01:17:59 pm
Quote from: hatler on 06 June, 2011, 11:04:12 am
Quote from: Adrian on 28 May, 2011, 11:26:09 am
Quote from: hatler on 27 May, 2011, 11:59:59 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 27 May, 2011, 11:50:29 am
Erm, you breathed in bacteria from the sewage?

But I'd have thought I'd be more likely...

The sewage will contain...

Sore throat turned into chest infection. Deep ugly productive cough. Off the bike all of last week and on anti-biotics. Doctor confirmed the theory when I saw her last week. Yuk yukkity yuk.

So I suppose the really interesting question is what you would do differently if you're in the same situation again?  Turn back?  Hold your breath?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 06 June, 2011, 02:07:36 pm
Nose breath I guess. I probably had my mouth open.

But if it happens again I will turn back.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 June, 2011, 02:14:06 pm
Quote from: Chris L on 06 June, 2011, 01:07:11 pm
Peeled off to assist a broken down pusher.  

Wondered where you were going - I had spotted someone walking, but I hadn't realised he was in distress.  Not like me to go past :-[

Quote
Very oddly, his rear set-up (insert Clapham Common joke here) seemed to have landed the chain in about gear 6 position where there wasn't a sproket - just a spacer.  The derailleur held the chain resolutely in this position.  His shifter had suffered internal liquification, so I loosened the cable and locked him on the smallest sprocket, which he was delighted with.  And this on a new-ish bike.  From Halfords.  Unbelievable.

Up to Halfords standard, though how on earth they managed that, I have no idea.  Just talent, I suppose...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 06 June, 2011, 10:24:15 pm
I actually chased a driver down yesterday, I think the first time I've ever done it. Swooping downhill past the catholic cathedral, car approaches a junction on my right and edges out. "Silly" I thought, and ease up, I'm doing about 20, car pulls out fully and is alongside me, then turns his left indicators on! I scream and brake, he turns across me, I get red mist and chase him, pointing sideways for him to pull over, oncoming traffic in a narrow road means he'll never outpace me. I pull up on his offside, window winds down:

"I do apologise!"

Elderly party says.

"Did you see me!?"

I ask.

"I am very sorry!"

He says.

"You could have killed me!"

"I really am very sorry and apologise".

"Accepted. Please be careful"

I felt a bit bad afterwards it was a sixtieish chap and his wife. I don't think it was he misjudged my speed, more he saw me but I didn't really register.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 06 June, 2011, 10:28:36 pm
No such excitement for me, but I did add 4 or 5 miles on to my standard commute this afternoon.

Looking back towards North Gower
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3462/5804960197_1063ec0b78.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/87345810@N00/5804960197/)

Decision time.
(http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5066/5805907062_dcb7490d7c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/87345810@N00/5805907062/)

Given that Ammanford was up that hill (and I did it on last Friday's commute) it was back downhill (but not straight down to the farm).
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3644/5805373159_d25aeb4f9f.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/87345810@N00/5805373159/)

Freezing on the descent...
(http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2774/5805386399_0bc93f6cc4.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/87345810@N00/5805386399/)

But still sunny...
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3056/5805961690_5e31fbd3f8.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/87345810@N00/5805961690/)

... to Craig Cefn Parc
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3382/5805976038_ba913a93a4.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/87345810@N00/5805976038/)

where I rejoined my normal commute.  Must do it more often.




Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 06 June, 2011, 11:18:50 pm
Why the fridges? Did you carry them up there just for the shot?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 06 June, 2011, 11:23:32 pm
It's all like that on my commute.

OK, I mean the fridges and odd bits of detritus.  Not the green hills and valleys and endless views.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 07 June, 2011, 12:10:46 am
You want fridges?  Come to Silly Oak.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 June, 2011, 09:20:26 am
Ha!

You may have the lycra and the Cannondale Synapse.  You may push to the front at red lights, but if you can't come up with the goods, get out the way.

And if you are being taunted by a nanny not known for her great racing exploits, riding a Dawes Galaxy with a saddlebag and pannier, then you need to go home and rethink your life.

Oh - and it's no good trying to keep up with a fat middle-aged asthmatic on another tourer to try to restore your pride.  Especially when said FM-AA can't be arsed to use his top gear.  And when you run one red light to get ahead and one to try to keep up.

You're a wannabe.  Please don't get in the way again, or we shall feel obliged to point and laugh. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RJ on 07 June, 2011, 10:13:43 am
 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: keeks on 07 June, 2011, 10:40:17 am
Quote from: clarion on 07 June, 2011, 09:20:26 am
Ha!

You may have the lycra and the Cannondale Synapse.  You may push to the front at red lights, but if you can't come up with the goods, get out the way.


Similiar to the Mr Cannondale I met ,

Except the one I came behind today would run every red light and not only that would cut in front of a car just as the lights turn green. I just shook my head so the car drivers would at least see that not all cyclists are red running muppets
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 07 June, 2011, 10:46:17 am
I do that too. Trying to get the driver's attention and evince the sort of expression that says "What can you do?"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 June, 2011, 10:48:49 am
Funnily enough, and mindful of Zipperhead's mention of a Cannondale yesterday, I did see another of that company's products being piloted down a rapidly narrowing gap between a bus and a truck.  I would guess that neither driver had a chance of seeing him, so he was very lucky to have got away with it, though he probably puts it down to l33t mad skillzzzzz or summat.

Reminded me so much of that twat twatted by a pickup in the vid we so recently saw and commented on...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 June, 2011, 10:49:25 am
Quote from: Riggers on 07 June, 2011, 10:46:17 am
I do that too. Trying to get the driver's attention and evince the sort of expression that says "What can you do?"

Yes.  I hope I can distance myself from the numpties.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 07 June, 2011, 11:07:49 am
Quote from: clarion on 07 June, 2011, 10:48:49 am
Funnily enough, and mindful of Zipperhead's mention of a Cannondale yesterday, I did see another of that company's products being piloted down a rapidly narrowing gap between a bus and a truck.  I would guess that neither driver had a chance of seeing him, so he was very lucky to have got away with it, though he probably puts it down to l33t mad skillzzzzz or summat.

Reminded me so much of that twat twatted by a pickup in the vid we so recently saw and commented on...

Before this thread develops an "All Cannondale Riders Are Dangerous And Should Be Drowned At Birth" slant, I would like to point out that my Sunday Best bike is a 2004 Cannondale R800 and I am only dangerous when provoked (or descending).

 ;)

 :-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 June, 2011, 11:16:34 am
I merely remarked on the coincidence, and no inferences should be drawn about riders of any bikes from Connecticut. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 07 June, 2011, 11:31:16 am
Quote from: clarion on 07 June, 2011, 11:16:34 am
bikes from Connecticut.

... or the Far East.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 June, 2011, 11:46:18 am
Well, yes, but we don't want to talk about that ;)

Do they still all have a stars & stripes sticker?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 07 June, 2011, 01:14:54 pm
We might need to start a separate line of comments on people riding Chris Boardman bikes, to judge from the numpty I encountered last night. 

Sir, if you are unable to move away from the lights at a reasonable pace, partly because you have to slow to a virtual track stand in order to enage your right foot in your right hand pedal, while lurching around in the middle of the lane, please do not repeatedly push your way from the back of the ASL to the front in order to get in the way of the people who do know how to ride their bikes
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Honest John on 07 June, 2011, 04:07:29 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 07 June, 2011, 01:14:54 pm
We might need to start a separate line of comments on people riding Chris Boardman bikes, to judge from the numpty I encountered last night. 

Sir, if you are unable to move away from the lights at a reasonable pace, partly because you have to slow to a virtual track stand in order to enage your right foot in your right hand pedal, while lurching around in the middle of the lane, please do not repeatedly push your way from the back of the ASL to the front in order to get in the way of the people who do know how to ride their bikes

It just goes to show that if you sell a decent bike with a British celeb's name on it, an awful lot of inappropriate people will buy one. Just be thankful they're not selling Hoy-branded track bikes to the Hoxton Hipsters.

I put this in the same box as US Postal and Discovery jerseys.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sigod on 07 June, 2011, 04:12:26 pm
The Audi TT of bikes? God I hope the Boardman brand doesn't get tarnished by the type of cyclist that is strong in the ways of Halfords.

A nice ride in this morning without trouble or incident happily.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 June, 2011, 04:17:31 pm
I'll stand up for Boardman riders on this one.  I don't think they are any worse than the average newbie joe who got his/her bike in the last couple of years.  And some are rather better.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 07 June, 2011, 07:55:16 pm
Quote from: fuzzy on 07 June, 2011, 11:07:49 am

Before this thread develops an "All Cannondale Riders Are Dangerous And Should Be Drowned At Birth" slant, I would like to point out that my Sunday Best bike is a 2004 Cannondale R800 and I am only dangerous when provoked (or descending).

 ;)

 :-*

In a Cannondale; the bicycle equivalent of a BWM/Audi delete, or not, to taste sort of way?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 07 June, 2011, 07:59:19 pm
Quote from: clarion on 07 June, 2011, 04:17:31 pm
I'll stand up for Boardman riders on this one.  I don't think they are any worse than the average newbie joe who got his/her bike in the last couple of years.  And some are rather better.

Yeah, I know.  ;)  I was just trying to make it easier for Cannondale riders.  And we know it's the rider, not the bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 June, 2011, 08:20:26 pm
On the way home, there was a bit of a commotion atMitcham Junction.  There's often cars pillocking around there - stopping to pick people up/drop them off at pedestrian crossings and the like.  But there were a lot of people standing around.  It looked a bit odd.

It took me a while to notice the silver Peugeot buried right into the trees down the bank, almost at right angles to the road.

Must have been trying bloody hard to achieve that, I reckon.

Traffic was backing up pretty quickly, and I had to get right off the road three times to let blue light vehicles past.

Car was still stuck there when Butterfly went past.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 07 June, 2011, 09:06:13 pm
Thunderstorms and extraordinary skies on the way home tonight.  Shame there aren't more tall bits in Darlo where I can fully appreciate it. Couldn't be bothered to go to the footbridge over the A66.  Well, I would have, except the back gates out of work were locked, and by the time I'd detoured back, I really couldn't be bothered.  Plus, it was starting to rain.  I did stop above the railway lines to admire the rainbow. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Rimnod on 07 June, 2011, 09:18:36 pm
Worst type of commute, 15 mph headwind (easterly) on the way in this morning into light rain that was cold, early winter type cold, 12 miles of misery.  8mph headwind on the way home in heavy rain another 12 miles of misery.

Just to make it interesting I had no energy at all, no Mojo whatsoever.  Heavens, I hate riding and feeling like someone who has dragged a BSO out of the shed for the first time in 15 years and decided that its a great idea to commute to work because its suddenly become 'cool' to be a MAMIL.

Sat down to log my mileage to discover I had dropped from 3rd to 5th on the list.   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 07 June, 2011, 10:05:06 pm
I need to recover some commute zen. Crappy ride this morning, got irritable. One short, shouty, foul and unseemly exchange with motorist. A series of snarls at various other motorists who, let's face it, were behaving no differently to drivers on any other day who escape abuse for their dozy misjudgements.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 08 June, 2011, 08:19:33 am
Last night
Congestion just east of the City was crazy (~18:30)!  I eventually resorted to Cable Street as it was the fastest option.  The odd thing is that traffic was bad both east and west bound.  Even the A13 westbound at Canning Town was nuts.  But I did see something lovely: an AddisonLee people carrier pulled over by the police.   ;D

This morning
Another early start.  Was surprised to see a bit more traffic than expected.  By the time I got to the City is was getting bad.  Looking out the office windows I see vehicles backed up all over the place.  I may head home along the Thames tonight.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 08 June, 2011, 08:45:55 am
I stopped to help a lady walking her bike in Catford with a derailed chain.  Couldn't do much in the end - fixed her binding rear brake, but my crappy spanner didn't have a hope of loosening her rear axle nut to take out the slack in the chain.  I only carry that spanner as a just in case for other cyclists anyway, but I think I'd better replace it.

Any recommendations?  I used to own a tule, but perhaps a small shifting spanner might be best since I don't want to carry much?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 08 June, 2011, 08:55:23 am
Quote from: Andrij on 08 June, 2011, 08:19:33 am
Last night
Congestion just east of the City was crazy (~18:30)!  I eventually resorted to Cable Street as it was the fastest option.  The odd thing is that traffic was bad both east and west bound.  Even the A13 westbound at Canning Town was nuts.  But I did see something lovely: an AddisonLee people carrier pulled over by the police.   ;D


It was backing up through the Rotherhithe Tunnel and causing gridlock in Bermondsey too. Seems to happen about once a week for no discernible reason.  I hope the AL driver was the one who was aggressively squeezing past cyclists in the bus lane by Bermondsey tube :-)  The timing would be about right if he went through the tunnel and was being an ass on the other side too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 08 June, 2011, 09:02:42 am
Not quite 'on my commute' and not quite 'today' either, seeing as how this happened on Saturday after I had cycled in to town to buy some specialist beer (that's right beer!).

Going down a side street less than 400 yards from Preston Park in Brighton, noticed a chap roping his bike straight on to the roof of his car. I could have let that go but, no, I had to stick my oar in.

"I'm sorry to be stating the blindingly obvious", I said, but you do realise the pedal is scraping your roof?"

"Narrh, thas alright mate", he said, I've done it lots an' the car's a piece of shit anyway, an' I only drive to the park an' back again."

"What! Drive to the park you bloody lazy git, I thought, and said "Ah, righto." And cycled off home.

I'm being generous with the estimate of 400 yards to the park I think.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 June, 2011, 09:13:15 am
Perhaps he was on his way home after his larks in the park (+400yds at the end)?  We can hope.

This morning, I rode half the way with Butterfly again (she was on her plastic bike, so we were a wee bit faster).  My legs felt stiff & heavy when we started, and took a while to ease off, but I was flying OK by the end of it.

One bad thing - I was overtaking a pillock who hadn't checked before launching a snot rocket.  Caught me on the calf.  I told him to fuck off, and he started to apologise, but I wasn't interested in slowing down to discuss it, so I left him behind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 08 June, 2011, 09:32:51 am
Odd as it may seem to most of us here, I think some people really feel proud when bolting their bicycle to their car; both of their well-loved transports together.  He won't get it if we say "Why would you drive to the park, when you could ride?", though.  I expect he doesn't see the bike as a serious form of transportation.

Nice, fast run in, although I'm seeing much idiocy at roundabouts at the moment.  From drivers even more than summer cyclists.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 08 June, 2011, 09:50:59 am
That made me think of my setup - I ride my bike to go skate in the park.  Am I wrong for not just skating to the park?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 08 June, 2011, 10:10:12 am
Quote from: Wendy on 08 June, 2011, 09:50:59 am
That made me think of my setup - I ride my bike to go skate in the park.  Am I wrong for not just skating to the park?

Yes, you road tax dodger. get of your laid back arse and skate to the park ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 08 June, 2011, 10:13:47 am
Quote from: fuzzy on 08 June, 2011, 10:10:12 am
Quote from: Wendy on 08 June, 2011, 09:50:59 am
That made me think of my setup - I ride my bike to go skate in the park.  Am I wrong for not just skating to the park?

Yes, you road tax dodger. get of your laid back arse and skate to the park ;D

Yebbut he wouldn't be able to have a kip then, would he?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 08 June, 2011, 10:59:39 am
Quote from: Wendy on 08 June, 2011, 09:50:59 am
That made me think of my setup - I ride my bike to go skate in the park.  Am I wrong for not just skating to the park?

I think you should strap your skates to the top of a car.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 08 June, 2011, 11:34:06 am
I sometimes drive to the gym to join the spin class.....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 08 June, 2011, 11:47:35 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 08 June, 2011, 10:59:39 am
Quote from: Wendy on 08 June, 2011, 09:50:59 am
That made me think of my setup - I ride my bike to go skate in the park.  Am I wrong for not just skating to the park?

I think you should strap your skates to the top of a car.


Nah, they're too expensive to maltreat them like that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 08 June, 2011, 12:14:34 pm
i rode in today, first time since the Irish Mail 400km on the 21st of May

Over two weeks off  ;D The Achilles is normal again now.  The other tendons and stuff in my right foot are still aching but the actual Achilles, no problem
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 08 June, 2011, 05:30:15 pm
Riding home in shorts and a shirt through a sudden heavy rain shower complete with stair rod rain  and cold gusty winds from what seemed like all angles, I realised I was grinning widely and felt happier than I had done all day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 08 June, 2011, 06:30:45 pm
I've just looked out the window and the streets don't look inviting.  Hopefully the roads will clear a bit by the time I leave the office.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 08 June, 2011, 07:21:54 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 08 June, 2011, 09:32:51 am
much idiocy at roundabouts at the moment.  From drivers even more than summer cyclists

Likewise. Last night or the night before I saw a "discussion" in progress between a cyclist and a motorist on this subject - I could hear the hapless cyclist trying to explain the give way to traffic from the right concept. (Suspect he may have more success if checking if the driver knew left from right beforehand).
I am forever encountering queues at the 3 or 4 roundabouts on my commute caused by the (frequent) simultaneous arrival at a roundabout of 2 drivers both unable to proceed due to not knowing who goes next  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 June, 2011, 07:22:34 pm
Going OK with just a headwind.  Pah! Just plugging on into it and doing all right.

Then got badly left hooked.  Didn't hit me, but it was a nasty manoeuvre.  I caught up with the driver and let him know what I think.  I also told the take away he works for.  

I tried to report it on Roadsafe, but I had a short character limit again. >:(

I've put a short report in, and written a fuller version in case I can give them more detail.

The VRN and vehicle make do not match on the DVLA website.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 08 June, 2011, 07:44:28 pm
Quote from: jane on 08 June, 2011, 05:30:15 pm
Riding home in shorts and a shirt through a sudden heavy rain shower complete with stair rod rain  and cold gusty winds from what seemed like all angles, I realised I was grinning widely and felt happier than I had done all day.

You're me, you are.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 08 June, 2011, 07:47:28 pm
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 08 June, 2011, 07:21:54 pm

I am forever encountering queues at the 3 or 4 roundabouts on my commute caused by the (frequent) simultaneous arrival at a roundabout of 2 drivers both unable to proceed due to not knowing who goes next  ::-)

I've noticed that this phenomenon tends to manifest itself mostly at mini roundabouts.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 08 June, 2011, 07:50:45 pm
Quote from: Basil on 08 June, 2011, 07:44:28 pm
Quote from: jane on 08 June, 2011, 05:30:15 pm
Riding home in shorts and a shirt through a sudden heavy rain shower complete with stair rod rain  and cold gusty winds from what seemed like all angles, I realised I was grinning widely and felt happier than I had done all day.

You're me, you are.  ;D

You are both me last Sunday afternoon  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 08 June, 2011, 08:17:46 pm
1st commute on my 1st day back at work, headwind & heavy rucksack on the way in, it's just under 13miles & took 50mins.  I took a longer & much more pleasant route home which was 17miles of mostly country lanes  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 08 June, 2011, 10:01:47 pm
Quote from: Basil on 08 June, 2011, 07:47:28 pm
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 08 June, 2011, 07:21:54 pm

I am forever encountering queues at the 3 or 4 roundabouts on my commute caused by the (frequent) simultaneous arrival at a roundabout of 2 drivers both unable to proceed due to not knowing who goes next  ::-)

I've noticed that this phenomenon tends to manifest itself mostly at mini roundabouts.

THe opposite happens at a mini roundabout that I pass sometimes - everyone assumes they should go first... There is frequently glass on the road and I've seen several crashes or the aftermath ::-). It might help if more people bothered to indicate.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Meegat on 08 June, 2011, 10:06:55 pm
Car parked in the cycle lane. As I passed them, they squirted water in my direction with their sideways-pointing window-washers.

Perhaps it's a new sort of avoidance training to keep people out of the doorzone. :p
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 08 June, 2011, 11:02:08 pm
Felt like crap when leaving work - either the beginnings of a cold, or allergies which I've completely failed to notice before.  My work colleagues are convinced I have hay fever, I've been sneezing that much.  

Anyway, to try and burn it out I decided on a brisk ride, so I rode around the A66 bypass and down to Bland's Corner, could have done with a few hills but Darlo itself is pretty lacking in them.  Bank Top has one (the clue being in the name), but it's a bit central, Pierremont (despite the name) doesn't have much of a hill.  Mowden has a few, though I can't work out the etymology.  Don't get me started on Lascelles.  But I digress.

Without a computer on my bike, I ended up not knowing what pace I was setting, so I ended up going briskly but not as hard as I wanted or needed. A wee climb away from the Skerne and along Coniscliffe Road, I thought I may as well come back along Seven Woods.  There's a beautiful new cinder path alongside the beck, linking with Nunnery Lane.  However, I rode along the singletrack through the woods, which was ace.  It put me in a fabulous mood, blasting along and grinning.  No kingfishers along Cocker Beck, but you can't have everything.

Back on the road, and somebody tried to run me off it.  Coming back into town along the benign b-road, as I approached the houses a couple of cars were approaching from the other direction, there was a grunt of exhaust noise, and the car behind decided to overtake the first car at that point.  Straight at me.  While also looking straight at me.  What a colossal cunt.

A bit shaken, I rolled into Cockerton (possibly best not to dwell on the etymology of that name) and got my shopping.  I regained my mojo and enjoyed the ride back through the Denes. They're rebuilding the footbridges across the beck, which might make for some enjoyable rides in the future.

Still, what I mostly remember is the singletrack.  Must include more of that in my daily commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 08 June, 2011, 11:15:14 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 08 June, 2011, 07:50:45 pm
Quote from: Basil on 08 June, 2011, 07:44:28 pm
Quote from: jane on 08 June, 2011, 05:30:15 pm
Riding home in shorts and a shirt through a sudden heavy rain shower complete with stair rod rain  and cold gusty winds from what seemed like all angles, I realised I was grinning widely and felt happier than I had done all day.

You're me, you are.  ;D

You are both me last Sunday afternoon  ;D

And Monday morning too  :thumbsup: 11 miles in with the rain and I felt goooood.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 08 June, 2011, 11:30:28 pm
Quote from: zigzag on 02 June, 2011, 11:18:16 am
Quote from: zigzag on 02 June, 2011, 09:16:19 am
london bridge was part-closed at 8:45 this morning, ambulance helicopter landing on the street, a person lying on the road - let's hope he/she will survive whatever happened. grim start of the day.

air ambulance response was immediate. i was approaching the junction and saw the traffic moving in the front, but when the light turned red i stopped and saw the helicopter landing. they were just closing the junction at that time for safe landing. if this (http://www.london-se1.co.uk/news/view/5320) article is correct it was pedestrian/motorbike accident.

saw yellow posters today asking for witnesses about the fatal accident on the 2nd of june... r.i.p. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 June, 2011, 08:58:58 am
Very sad to hear.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 09 June, 2011, 10:28:09 am
I screwed up yesterday - I got overly focused on a pushy Audi behind and then next to me on the approach to a roundabout, and missed someone doing a U turn around the roundabout.  Oops!  They were signalling right all the way, so I've no excuse.

Anyway, lesson learnt by me, and luckily on video I see that I didn't cause them to have to change direction or brake.  I looked back and waved a big sorry once we were both off the RAB.  Can't really see much on the video, else I'd have uploaded it already.

Oh, and thumbs up to Roadsafe.  I've filmed three incidents now where the driver/rider has been put forward for prosecution.  It's enough that they've asked whether I should really be offering to go to court, as it might jeopardise my employment taking that much time off work.  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 09 June, 2011, 02:34:18 pm
Loveley ride home yesterday as it stopped raining before I left. All fine and dandy until I got in the queue of traffic for Marlow Bridge which has the give way to oncoming traffic instruction signs at either end. The idea is that traffic on the bridge and approaching the pinch points created by the caisons, or whatever the towers of a suspension bridge are called, are given way to in order to facilitate free traffic movement whilst resticting the number of vehicles actualy on the deck of this quite fragile bridge. I was behind a red Mazda MX5. The MX5 got to third from the bridge and as the two vehicles ahead moved off, tyhe MX5 was right up the chuff of the one in front. When the MX5 tried to follow through the pinch point it was head on with another vehicle trying to leave the bridge. Cue a bit of a standoff for a few seconds untill the MX5 reversed out of the way. By this time, the bridge deck was full of cars coming from the other direction. I waited behind the MX5 for about 3 minutes until I got bored and took the opportunity presented by a narrower vehicle leaving the bridge. I filtered past the MX5, entered the bridge without affecting viehicles leaving and continued on my way. 10 seconds impatience led the MX5 driver and other following vehicles being delayed by up to 5 minutes. Stupid Git ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 09 June, 2011, 05:06:39 pm
Left home at 6.15 am.  Couldn't resist giving up the idea of getting in very early and catching up on all that paperwork I keep hiding in my Misc. because it was such a glorious morning. So I  just turned off my usual commute route to add an extra  10 mile loop around SE London ending with a circuit of Blackheath and one of Greenwich Park before heading down the rough and tumble of the A2. (not the best metaphor for this road, I grant you).  The sun was shining, the sky was blue and the air felt almost clear.  Will take my camera tomorrow if the morning is similar and show you just how beautiful London can be.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 09 June, 2011, 08:58:20 pm
Same route lighter rucksack & less headwind meant I knocked nearly 6 minutes of yesterdays ride 13miles, 44mins & 17.2mph avg.  Took long route home again for a total of 32.4miles.  The legs are a bit sore & my right knee is a little achy so no ride tomorrow as I've got a 600k audax this weekend  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 09 June, 2011, 09:16:57 pm
Dodged the rain again and I'm really starting to get into my Zone 2 work again.  Much easier to go quicker yet stay in the zone than last week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Honest John on 09 June, 2011, 10:00:47 pm
Quote from: fuzzy on 09 June, 2011, 02:34:18 pm
ntered the bridge without affecting viehicles leaving and continued on my way. 10 seconds impatience led the MX5 driver and other following vehicles being delayed by up to 5 minutes. Stupid Git ::-)

Then why didn't you nick him?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 09 June, 2011, 11:25:50 pm
Quote from: Honest John on 09 June, 2011, 10:00:47 pm
Quote from: fuzzy on 09 June, 2011, 02:34:18 pm
ntered the bridge without affecting viehicles leaving and continued on my way. 10 seconds impatience led the MX5 driver and other following vehicles being delayed by up to 5 minutes. Stupid Git ::-)

Then why didn't you nick him?

Off duty, not in uniform, no power to stop the vehicle?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 June, 2011, 08:23:04 am
I'd just been roundly abused by a stoned driver who I was going to roadsafe then set off.

As I was memorising his reg, my front gear cable broke, and other things caused the number to pass from my mind :(

Adjusted the screws on the front mech, which were a bit stiff.  Tbf, they've barely needed adjustment from new.  And got to work riding a 34 ring with a 13 sprocket maximum - a top gear of 70".  Still managed to get up to 40kph on what is pretty much a flat route.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 10 June, 2011, 09:22:59 am
Fun, in a word.
Decided to ride The Beast for the first time in $DIETY-knows how long and had a whale of a time with the three fixed-gears-inna-can, even if the middle gear is a bit spinnier than what I'm used to. Far side of a railway bridge + 86" gear yields something approaching a recumbent grin.

Added bonus in that I missed the traffic going to the racecourse even if there were a few funken druckwits congregating at the racecourse (pissed at 8.30am, FFS  ::-)). Somehow I don't think I'll be quite so lucky on the way home tonight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 10 June, 2011, 09:52:57 am
Last few commutes have been pretty good (if not numpty free - just nothing life-threatening).  Oh, how I miss my Ribble.  With the effort I've been putting in the last few evenings my cruising speed would have been pushing 40kph, but on the tank that is the Orbea Elorrio it was mid 30s at best. :(  Wednesday I even managed an avg speed of nearly 26kph.

Definite Friday legs this morning, so much so that I picked up CS3 from Canning Town.

As for the two RLJ (and other crimes) roadies I encountered from Cable Street on through East Cheap, <french accent> "I fart in your general direction!" </french accent>.  The fat, lazy, barsteward on the heavy bike kept catching up with, and passing, you, in spite of the two of you riding like complete wazzocks.  I may have got to work tired, but I was also feeling  :smug:
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 10 June, 2011, 09:55:24 am
Lovely day for the commute in.  Even nicer to be riding in on the new build, which is easily the best frame I've ever owne.  Smiling foolishly all the way in.  Well, in my head; I'm told I rarely smile on the outside.

Andrij, I've met you, you're not fat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 10 June, 2011, 10:42:46 am
Quote from: interzen on 10 June, 2011, 09:22:59 am
$DIETY

Is that your weight loss deity?

On my commute my possible crack'o'doom did not get any longer. Ho hum.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 10 June, 2011, 11:19:48 am
Quote from: Greenbank on 10 June, 2011, 10:42:46 am
Quote from: interzen on 10 June, 2011, 09:22:59 am
$DIETY

Is that your weight loss deity?

On my commute my possible crack'o'doom did not get any longer. Ho hum.
I wish it was - all the good work I did prior to the car accident has been undone and I'm back up over 20 stone. Only just, but it's still a bit depressing, especially as I was homing in on 18-and-a-bit before the prang  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 10 June, 2011, 12:18:35 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 10 June, 2011, 09:55:24 am
Lovely day for the commute in.  Even nicer to be riding in on the new build, which is easily the best frame I've ever owne.  Smiling foolishly all the way in.  Well, in my head; I'm told I rarely smile on the outside.

Andrij, I've met you, you're not fat.


I can vouch for that too Andrij.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 10 June, 2011, 01:07:06 pm
I was really pleased this morning that I fitted a kick stand last year.  It is so much easier getting the rain coat on when the bike just stands there. Compare to putting the coat while the bike is leaning against you.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 June, 2011, 05:33:01 pm
I was at work before 0730 this morning, and haven't got close to beginning my homeward commute yet >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 10 June, 2011, 05:51:27 pm
^^^^^^
 :hand:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: billplumtree on 10 June, 2011, 08:47:02 pm
Just missed a heavy shower on the way home tonight, but it left the roads soaking wet.  As the lorries passed my elbow at 60 mph on the dual-cabbageway, soaking me in filthy water, I found myself looking disconsolately at the thundering wheels a few inches away spraying grime at me, and thinking "This jersey was clean on this morning - my best woollen one an'all!  I'm gonna have to wash it again now".

I think maybe I should consider re-ordering my priorities.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 June, 2011, 09:37:36 pm
Just fitted the ride in between showers.  Very twiddly, but I did OK.

Butterfly got sleet. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 June, 2011, 09:20:20 am
What a bunch of numpties on the road this morning!

Highlights:

i   Driver cut round us to get to the back of a queue about 50m ahead

ii  Driver drove onto roundabout in front of us

iii Driver overtook us on a blind bend and then left hooked me as I was travelling at 20mph.  Close thing.

iv  Driver turning right off road, ignoring traffic in bus lane.  Could have been very nasty.

v   (And I reckon Butterfly might have something to say about this) Numpty cyclists failing to stop at red lights en masse.  Especially one who tried to undertake while we were stopped at the red light

And that was just the first half of the ride.

I hope I offset the kamma when I spotted a chap walking along with an obvious p*nct*re.  I stopped & turned back, and gave him my spare tube.  He offered me money for it, but it's been repaired already, and I just hope he gets home OK.  I think I have another.*  Oh - and fortunately, he had his tools (just not his spare tube after a flat on friday, poor sod) so I could just get off owards work.

EDIT: * Yes, I do :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 13 June, 2011, 12:34:30 pm
14mph head wind to work.  Can't wait for the ride home  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 13 June, 2011, 01:13:42 pm
Quote from: Grub on 13 June, 2011, 12:34:30 pm
14mph head wind to work.  Can't wait for the ride home  :thumbsup:

And what makes you think you'll have a tailwind? Experience or hope?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 13 June, 2011, 01:17:36 pm
14 mph tailwind this morning - which means I'm owed 2 weeks of continuous headwind (on current stats)

Oh yes - and on the numpty road users topic - driver overtakes on blind bend causing much braking and horn blowing from oncoming driver.  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 13 June, 2011, 01:38:38 pm
12 mile commute and neither foot touched the ground between setting off and arriving at the bike shed at work. (And I can't track stand).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 13 June, 2011, 03:57:58 pm
Quote from: Ham on 13 June, 2011, 01:13:42 pm
Quote from: Grub on 13 June, 2011, 12:34:30 pm
14mph head wind to work.  Can't wait for the ride home  :thumbsup:

And what makes you think you'll have a tailwind? Experience or hope?

Weatherbug on my Blackberry  ;D
Simple facts too.  I went due west to work into a headwind.  I'm going due east home and it is still windy.
More so - now up to 20mph  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 13 June, 2011, 04:37:58 pm
Spotted a guy on a unicycle in Tooley Street this morning. 

Really must get out and practice on mine  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 13 June, 2011, 05:41:07 pm
I hate people on unicycles.  Every time I see one it reminds me of how crap I am because I just cannot learn to ride mine.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 13 June, 2011, 06:30:30 pm
Saw a MAMIL on the way home in full ASTANA kit.  He needs to read the Weight Loss Thread too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dinamo on 13 June, 2011, 07:34:51 pm
Short commute today ( only 3 miles instead of my usual 14 ) to City of Bristol College in Soundwell to attend a Shop stewards course.
Good to see lots of bikes being used / locked up  :thumbsup:
Downhill all the way home with a tailwind  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 13 June, 2011, 07:50:29 pm
Quote from: Grub on 13 June, 2011, 06:30:30 pm
Saw a MAMIL on the way home in full ASTANA kit.  He needs to read the Weight Loss Thread too.
"Full" as in "full to the brim"?
My lycra is like that too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 13 June, 2011, 08:55:58 pm
Does this count as a commute?

Start 1920 hrs.
20 mins Brompton
20 mins waiting for train.
2h20 train
25 mins tube
1h30 on train before it leaves (including a bit of food shopping)
7h30 on the train, mostly asleep.  Woken with stewardess bearing bacon sandwich and coffee
15 mins on bus
2 mins walk (no point in unfolding Brompton)
Sign in.
'Working' day from 0750 to 1600.  (Not getting paid.  Volunteer!)
25 mins waiting for bus
1h20 on bus
3 mins Brompton

Open up holiday house, turn on water and electrickery (we've got BOTH mod-cons)
5 min Brompton ride to the pub, which does some delightful real ales.  And has wifi.  And steak.

Anything written after this is wholly supposition as to what the rest of the evening will contain.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Rimnod on 13 June, 2011, 10:17:24 pm
Heavy grey sea mist for the run in, wet and 'orrible, lights front and back hi-viz just like flaming winter.

Wind blows the haar away and the run home into a steady 20 mph head wind gusting 38 mph at one point I was pedalling like chuff just to stand still.  Easiest part of the run was up the hill (5% ave of 2 km) 'cause the trees sheltered me from the high volume of moving air mass.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 13 June, 2011, 10:20:13 pm
Quote from: rower40 on 13 June, 2011, 08:55:58 pm
Does this count as a commute?

Start 1920 hrs.
20 mins Brompton
20 mins waiting for train.
2h20 train
25 mins tube
1h30 on train before it leaves (including a bit of food shopping)
7h30 on the train, mostly asleep.  Woken with stewardess bearing bacon sandwich and coffee
15 mins on bus
2 mins walk (no point in unfolding Brompton)
Sign in.
'Working' day from 0750 to 1600.  (Not getting paid.  Volunteer!)
25 mins waiting for bus
1h20 on bus
3 mins Brompton

Open up holiday house, turn on water and electrickery (we've got BOTH mod-cons)
5 min Brompton ride to the pub, which does some delightful real ales.  And has wifi.  And steak.

Anything written after this is wholly supposition as to what the rest of the evening will contain.

I think you have it sorted....   ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 14 June, 2011, 08:55:34 am
It's silly season for the rest of the week, all the toffs in their finery staggering drunkenly from the race course to Ascot station.

Do I: 1. cycle past the race course or 2. attempt to put my bike on the train and hope that I can get off at the first station after Ascot!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 14 June, 2011, 09:28:03 am
On the commute today....

my chain snapped  :'(

Happily it was near London Bridge so it wasn't too far to wheel it to a bike shop and get a new one put on (I don't carry a chain tool on the commute).

Not sure how much the rear tyre enjoyed the skid though. That may need some attention when I get home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smurphboy on 14 June, 2011, 09:29:00 am
Only one red light today - so PB for the commute :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bikesdontfloat on 14 June, 2011, 09:29:41 am
In light of the discussions in another thread about gender-neutral, non-age-discriminatory insults I'm proud to say that I informed the driver who tried to left-hook me last night that they were a "Stupid pissweasel".  Many thanks for the suggestions, I don't think anyone could take offence at that.

On the plus side, at least they were indicating as they eased past me, giving about 0.5sec advanced warning to get on the brakes.  Even then I only stopped 30cms short of the side of their car.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 14 June, 2011, 09:36:48 am
Tour de Commute last night, got caught up in keeping up with a faster pair into the headwind along the New King's Road. Turning back after seeing something distracting (that's Parson's Green for you) they had stopped at a pedestrian crossing. I stopped with about 2cm to spare from the bloke in front, the bloke behind me (also distracted) wasn't so lucky and had a slow speed tangle with the other rider.

No harm done and a gentle reminder to stop being distracted. Lesson (re)learned.

I generally avoid drafting people on the commute as a rule but I was being lazy into the headwind.

Off the bike today due to sore throat. Reminded how comfy and easy it is to get the train in to work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 14 June, 2011, 10:12:02 am
First time back on the bike since the shitstorm two weeks ago. I was beginning to worry that my legs might have disappeared.

A series of events this year mean that I am way behind the mileage I have normally cranked up by June. Must do better.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 14 June, 2011, 10:19:15 am
Quote from: bikesdontfloat on 14 June, 2011, 09:29:41 am
In light of the discussions in another thread about gender-neutral, non-age-discriminatory insults I'm proud to say that I informed the driver who tried to left-hook me last night that they were a "Stupid pissweasel".  Many thanks for the suggestions, I don't think anyone could take offence at that.

Oh, lovely work there :)  Isn't this place a useful resource, sometimes?

Glad it wasn't any closer.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 14 June, 2011, 10:21:52 am
The sun is out.
The sky is blue.
The birdies were singing.
The crickets were chirping in the long grass.

...
...
...

My knees were squeaking and the front rim kept rubbing on the brake pads.
And I left my sodding spoke key at home  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 14 June, 2011, 10:27:21 am
23 degrees at 9am. I have to moderate my speed a bit, let the cool air wash over me or I sweat like a german trying to tell a joke.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 14 June, 2011, 10:55:21 am
Nearly doored on my virtual commute this morning.

Went back to discuss with the lady involved and after "my door was only partly open" I got an apology and I gently explained the potential consequences of her actions. Hopefully she'll be a little more careful
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 14 June, 2011, 12:08:40 pm
Quote from: matthew on 14 June, 2011, 08:55:34 am
It's silly season for the rest of the week, all the toffs in their finery staggering drunkenly from the race course to Ascot station.

Do I: 1. cycle past the race course or 2. attempt to put my bike on the train and hope that I can get off at the first station after Ascot!!

Ride past the racecourse, nodding sagely to the poor coppers getting shafted with 'Pissed Toff and celebrity' crossing duty.

I have a friend who incurred the wrath of protection group occifers because he made the Sultan of Brunai wait to cross the road like the rest of the world :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 14 June, 2011, 12:50:48 pm
So should I be asking all the officers I see if they are Fuzzy, or have you avoided Ascot duty this year?

The problem is the Taxis and drunks, they are both highly unpredictable except that they will do just what you don't whant them to.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 14 June, 2011, 12:53:07 pm
Quote from: matthew on 14 June, 2011, 12:50:48 pm
So should I be asking all the officers I see if they are Fuzzy, or have you avoided Ascot duty this year?

The problem is the Taxis and drunks, they are both highly unpredictable except that they will do just what you don't whant them to.

If the ossifers you are looking at are fuzzy, you've had too much to drink already.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 14 June, 2011, 12:59:04 pm
Quote from: Ham on 14 June, 2011, 12:53:07 pm
Quote from: matthew on 14 June, 2011, 12:50:48 pm
So should I be asking all the officers I see if they are Fuzzy, or have you avoided Ascot duty this year?

The problem is the Taxis and drunks, they are both highly unpredictable except that they will do just what you don't whant them to.

If the ossifers you are looking at are fuzzy, you've had too much to drink already.
I'll be stone cold sober, as I will riding home from work, not the races.  ::-)

Should I suggest to the chaplains that the officers outside the gate may appreciate some support just as much as the jockeys course staff and punters. The local clergy have a full blown team wondering round with access all areas passes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 14 June, 2011, 01:23:45 pm
Quote from: interzen on 14 June, 2011, 10:21:52 am
The sun is out.
The sky is blue.
The birdies were singing.
The crickets were chirping in the long grass.
<snip>
You are Buddy Holly AICMFP.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 14 June, 2011, 01:28:30 pm
Quote from: Ham on 14 June, 2011, 12:53:07 pm
Quote from: matthew on 14 June, 2011, 12:50:48 pm
So should I be asking all the officers I see if they are Fuzzy, or have you avoided Ascot duty this year?

The problem is the Taxis and drunks, they are both highly unpredictable except that they will do just what you don't whant them to.

If the ossifers you are looking at are fuzzy, you've had too much to drink already.

Or maybe the ossifers need to read the "Recomend me a simple wet shave system" thread.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 14 June, 2011, 01:48:49 pm
Chris Evans was moaning about racegoers in traffic jams past his front gate all week. 

Anyway, well away from all that, I had a late start today, so went shopping first, then went home before riding in.  I thought, for a while, that the input from an lbs had perhaps solved my bottom gear problem (even though my first test of the bike straight after they worked on it proved they hadn't).  But the top gear skipped a little, so I eased off the cable tension.  I played round with it a few times riding round Wandsworth, and it got it soooooo temptingly close that it was running almost right.

But it wasn't, so I resigned myself to just two gears.  To Clapham Junction via Northcote Road, then up to York Road (where there is some lovely smooth new tarmac at the junction with Falcon Road :thumbsup:).  Winding through some back streets to Albert Bridge, where I walked across.

Along Embankment and past Millbank, using the part-finished Superhighway.  Lots of mysterious roadworks going on, causing narrowing, but the blue stuff was OK, and certainly wider than CS7.

At Lambeth Bridge (why did I have to choose a steep one? :-\ ) I crossed the river, then zoomed through the back way to work, rode straight past, and went to the shop to buy food for tonight's meeting. :)

25km of fun extemporising.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 14 June, 2011, 02:57:21 pm
Quote from: matthew on 14 June, 2011, 12:50:48 pm
So should I be asking all the officers I see if they are Fuzzy?

Sounds risky.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 14 June, 2011, 04:09:10 pm
Not strictly a commute today as I had a day of tests and checks at Guys Hospital. I took a really long route in via Waterlink Way,  Blackheath, Greenwich and then all along the river, turning a 5 mile trip into a 20 miler at least!  The Riverside ride was interrupted by a PCSO on a bike rather apologetically informing me I would have to dismount along the More London section from Tower Bridge to a bit before London Bridge. And noticed the rather ominous Orwellian signs informing you of this prohibition along with that of cycling and skateboarding, reminding us we are being watched by their cameras to ensure our compliance.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sigod on 14 June, 2011, 06:28:03 pm
Seeing signs like that does give me the shivers. At least the PCSO was being civil about it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 14 June, 2011, 06:39:18 pm
He was a very pleasant chap and I got the feeling that he thought the prohibition was as much a pile of poo as I did and just had to do his job or else..... I guess the  cameras are on him too.  Although I may be wrong, the guy did his job well, and I may well be projecting my feelings of irritation at the ridiculousness of it all on to him ( the watchers may well be watching and I don't want to land him in the sh.... as he was so nice and polite about it).  It actually makes me quite angry that this faceless thing called More London can actually own a bit of our historic riverside, which by now, should be a public right of way, and tell Londoners exactly how to behave when passing through it, even if that behaviour neither harms anyone or stops anyone from enjoying the riverside. It is especially ironic that it also includes the part of the riverside that is home to the great severed woodlouse  that houses our very own GLA.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 14 June, 2011, 06:51:44 pm
The FNRttC to places like Whitstable, used to go through the More London bit, mainly because there were some open public loos there, but also because you have a nice view of the bridge, and miss a bit of busy road.

Simon stopped using it, I think because a security guard, or someone of that ilk complained.

It seemed a bit daft, because at 1am, there aren't an awful lot pedestrians about. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 June, 2011, 10:15:27 am
I had to go to Putney to pick something up.  Cheap excuse to put in a few more miles.  To avoid hills, I went through Wandsworth.

Biiiiiiiiiiig mistake.  Huge.  The South Circular is closed, and I had to battle my way along Putney Bridge Road, getting stuck behind lorries jammed in the gridlock and the like.  Many riders had given up, and were riding on the pavement.  It was tempting, but I don't really do that.  And I don't know the backstreets well enough.

Once I was up Putney High Street, it was a breeze.  Then, coming back through, I hacked half of the High Street, then went off onto the cycle route and over Wandsworth Bridge (what a crap bit of farcility that has!).  Surviving the right turn, I got moving again along to the Embankment, and went to Lambeth Bridge again.  Not a nice filter to a right turn there. 

The last bit of crappy design is at St george's Circus, where there is a bike lane cut through, but it spews you out amidships of a bus stuck at the light, and does its very best to send you down Westminster Bridge Road, which is pretty much the way you came.  If you want to go along Borough Road (and, having done it two days running, I observe that every cyclist going through there did), you have to get a bit creative with the use of the junction and the interpretation of traffic lights.  V.dangerous, and I Do Not Approve.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ScumOfTheRoad on 15 June, 2011, 10:26:16 am
Quote from: clarion on 15 June, 2011, 10:15:27 am
I had to go to Putney to pick something up.  Cheap excuse to put in a few more miles.  To avoid hills, I went through Wandsworth.

Biiiiiiiiiiig mistake.  Huge.  The South Circular is closed, and I had to battle my way along Putney Bridge Road, getting stuck behind lorries jammed in the gridlock and the like.  Many riders had given up, and were riding on the pavement.  It was tempting, but I don't really do that.  And I don't know the backstreets well enough.

I used to work in Wandsworth several years ago.
There's quite a decent route along the river - coming south over Wandsworth Bridge head to the B+Q, then past the waste transfer station. Doesn't look promising here, but there is a bridge over the mouth of the Wandle. From there head towards the river and you can go through the park, route ends up on a quiet street in Putney, paralleling the main road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 15 June, 2011, 10:37:49 am
And coming up Putney Bridge Road, after the dip under the railway bridge take the first left (Fawe Park Road). That gets you all the way to the High Street (near the Putney Hill end) with less hassle than PBR (once you're through the first bit that's only just wider than a single lane).

Bikes are allowed in Wandsworth Park but only the stretch of path along the river, not on the path nearest Putney Bridge Road.

Scum's detour by Smugglers Way, past the dump, over the bridge and into Enterprise Way is quite good, I use it any time I'm coming from that direction. Also, during the day you should be able to turn right after the bridge over Bell Lane Creek and go along the waterfront in front of all of the new flats, leads you directly to the entrance to Wandsworth Park next to the river. If not, go through the small industrial estate (being demolished at the moment), bear left to continue on Osiers Road, then R@T on Point Pleasant down to the river (past the Cat's Back pub).

If you cross Wandsworth Bridge on the far (West) side then you can peel off early down Jews Row and Marl Road (past the bus depot) to get onto Smuggler's Way without having to deal with the 'Contact' roundabout.

Remember that the blue 'Cyclists Dismount' sign at Blades Court (to get you on to Deodar Road) is advisory only. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 June, 2011, 11:19:00 am
Aye, that's the route I took the other way.  But, heading into Putney, I was taken by surprise at West Hill that it specifically said no access for cycles to Upper Richmond Road, and didn't want to test it.  I took the diversion up Putney Bridge Road, but I should have gone a bit further round the gyratory, and over the nasty cobbles to the Wandle bit.

But I didn't ::-) :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 June, 2011, 12:06:06 pm
Last night, on the commute, I saw someone who had stolen a London Dynamo jersey.  I know it was stolen, because he was stopped at a red light.  OK, so his front wheel was over the line, but he had stopped.  I think that's against club rules :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 15 June, 2011, 12:08:28 pm
Quote from: clarion on 15 June, 2011, 12:06:06 pm
Last night, on the commute, I saw someone who had stolen a London Dynamo jersey.  I know it was stolen, because he was stopped at a red light.  OK, so his front wheel was over the line, but he had stopped.  I think that's against club rules :demon:

Mate, can you give it a rest already?  The club doesn't approve of it at all and will take action if it's reported.

Get some video and youtube the RLJing riders, and the club will have something they can take action with.  No, I'm not a member, but they are one of the biggest clubs around, so it's easy to blame all dynamo riders for this.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 June, 2011, 12:10:45 pm
OK, I'm being cheeky, hence the smiley.  You'll note it's been a while since I've mentioned crap riding by a Dynamoite.  Partly because I haven't seen any for months, but partly because the standard seems to have improved.

Dynamo have their reputation for a reason.  No point trying to deny that.  But there genuinely does seem to have been some action to improve things, and I'm pleased to see it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 15 June, 2011, 12:32:22 pm
Quote from: clarion on 15 June, 2011, 11:19:00 am
Aye, that's the route I took the other way.  But, heading into Putney, I was taken by surprise at West Hill that it specifically said no access for cycles to Upper Richmond Road, and didn't want to test it.

The roadworks caused by the gas mains replacement are quite substantial and make URR one way from the top of Oakhill Road to West Hill. The cyclist diversion is a (dull) hot topic on the local SW15 forums...

They'll be done soon, thankfully.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 15 June, 2011, 12:49:36 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 15 June, 2011, 12:08:28 pm
Quote from: clarion on 15 June, 2011, 12:06:06 pm
Last night, on the commute, I saw someone who had stolen a London Dynamo jersey.  I know it was stolen, because he was stopped at a red light.  OK, so his front wheel was over the line, but he had stopped.  I think that's against club rules :demon:

Mate, can you give it a rest already?  The club doesn't approve of it at all and will take action if it's reported.

Get some video and youtube the RLJing riders, and the club will have something they can take action with.  No, I'm not a member, but they are one of the biggest clubs around, so it's easy to blame all dynamo riders for this.

This is jolly coincidental. I have just e-mailed them:

Quote
Dear Sir/Madam

Re: Mobile Phone Use

I just wondered whether you could pass on some feedback to your membership.

I was at the traffic lights in Camberwell at about 8:35p.m. last night. At the junction going north one of your members (wearing the full regalia) set out from the traffic lights and was using his mobile phone.

May I point out that a) it is not doing your organisation any good if one of your members is disobeying the law; b) as cyclists we need to set a positive impression to other road users. Too often do cyclists get tarred with the brush that we are all inconsiderate and rude.

Yours faithfully

her_welshness
the lewisham parish


Have they got a bad rep then? I have not heard this before tbh.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 15 June, 2011, 01:09:52 pm
In the absence of video evidence of who the members are, maybe we should be campaigning for bicycle number plates so we can bring consequences?  :demon: ;D

If I get any, I'd report them.  Mind you I saw one of own club members jumping a light, and I failed to report them.  I wish I had now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 June, 2011, 01:14:48 pm

London Dynamos behaviour on a blogspot - Timetrialling Forum (http://www.timetriallingforum.co.uk/index.php?showtopic=45701)

London Dynamo In Richmond Park - Please Be More Considerate | Sportives/Audaxes/Training Rides | Road | Forums - BikeRadar (http://www.bikeradar.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=12591102&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=0)

 2012 Olympics Velodrome (The Pringle) - Page 4 - London Fixed-gear and Single-speed (http://www.lfgss.com/thread744-4.html)
(from page 4)

Cyclechat's search function is a bit less user-friendly, so ICBA looking through.  You get the idea, anyway.



Quote from: her_welshness on 15 June, 2011, 12:49:36 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 15 June, 2011, 12:08:28 pm
Quote from: clarion on 15 June, 2011, 12:06:06 pm
Last night, on the commute, I saw someone who had stolen a London Dynamo jersey.  I know it was stolen, because he was stopped at a red light.  OK, so his front wheel was over the line, but he had stopped.  I think that's against club rules :demon:

Mate, can you give it a rest already?  The club doesn't approve of it at all and will take action if it's reported.

Get some video and youtube the RLJing riders, and the club will have something they can take action with.  No, I'm not a member, but they are one of the biggest clubs around, so it's easy to blame all dynamo riders for this.

This is jolly coincidental. I have just e-mailed them:

Quote
Dear Sir/Madam

Re: Mobile Phone Use

I just wondered whether you could pass on some feedback to your membership.

I was at the traffic lights in Camberwell at about 8:35p.m. last night. At the junction going north one of your members (wearing the full regalia) set out from the traffic lights and was using his mobile phone.

May I point out that a) it is not doing your organisation any good if one of your members is disobeying the law; b) as cyclists we need to set a positive impression to other road users. Too often do cyclists get tarred with the brush that we are all inconsiderate and rude.

Yours faithfully

her_welshness
the lewisham parish


Have they got a bad rep then? I have not heard this before tbh.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 15 June, 2011, 01:20:39 pm
Quote from: clarion on 15 June, 2011, 01:14:48 pm


Cyclechat's search function is a bit less user-friendly, so ICBA looking through.  You get the idea, anyway.


Coincidentally, his Leggship posed a question this morning in "General Cycling" on CC, which I was able to answer correctly.

http://www.cyclechat.net/topic/85840-quiz-question/ (http://www.cyclechat.net/topic/85840-quiz-question/)

I don't appear to have been awarded a prize though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 June, 2011, 01:26:50 pm
Ah.  Got the hang of Cyclechat.

Quiz question - Cycle Chat Cycling Forums (http://www.cyclechat.net/topic/85840-quiz-question/page__p__1708912__hl__london+dynamo__fromsearch__1#entry1708912)

It's not just LD (though see comments in the thread):
Annoyed by cyclists from local club - Cycle Chat Cycling Forums (http://www.cyclechat.net/topic/81605-annoyed-by-cyclists-from-local-club/page__hl__london+dynamo)

Slightly older than all the other threads, but an interesting post from a 'Bentmikey' in this one:
A drivers view - Cycle Chat Cycling Forums (http://www.cyclechat.net/topic/42511-a-drivers-view/page__hl__london+dynamo)

Edit: Crosspost with Mr Hall.  Who doesn't deserve any sort of prize for such an easy question ;)



Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 June, 2011, 01:29:11 pm
Just to say, btw, that there were more examples on each forum, but I thought I'd post a recentish one for each.  Seems it's not just one bad apple who happens to be on my commute.  And certainly not just me complaining about dickish behaviour.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 15 June, 2011, 01:33:33 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 15 June, 2011, 12:49:36 pm
I was at the traffic lights in Camberwell at about 8:35p.m. last night. At the junction going north one of your members (wearing the full regalia) set out from the traffic lights and was using his mobile phone.

May I point out that a) it is not doing your organisation any good if one of your members is disobeying the law

Is cycling whilst using a mobile phone against the law?

I know there's a specific motoring offence but wasn't aware of one for cycling too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 15 June, 2011, 01:34:33 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 15 June, 2011, 01:33:33 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 15 June, 2011, 12:49:36 pm
I was at the traffic lights in Camberwell at about 8:35p.m. last night. At the junction going north one of your members (wearing the full regalia) set out from the traffic lights and was using his mobile phone.

May I point out that a) it is not doing your organisation any good if one of your members is disobeying the law

Is cycling whilst using a mobile phone against the law?


No.


What's more, to make it illegal would be to discriminate against one-armed cyclists.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 15 June, 2011, 01:38:32 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 15 June, 2011, 01:09:52 pm
In the absence of video evidence of who the members are, maybe we should be campaigning for bicycle number plates so we can bring consequences?  :demon: ;D

Coincidentally last night mrs jogler was informed in a strident manner that registration plates are compulsory for bicycles by a member of her W.I. coven group ::-)

Whilst MyRock was able to put the witch her right*, do not under-estimate the influence the National Committee of the W.I. has within "the Establishment".I think you may be suprised at the amount of reference government bodies take from the W.I. on all manner of socio-political issues:e.g,.the W.I. has been asked to comment on helmet wearing compulsion.
So do not make mention of cycle registration within earshot of W.I. members :hand:

*during the discussion the Member conceeded that if it's not the case on a national basis it certainly is so "in London".Do Boris Bikes have any indentification on them which might give the un-initiated the wrong impression?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 15 June, 2011, 01:40:33 pm
Quote from: jogler on 15 June, 2011, 01:38:32 pm
Do Boris Bikes have any indentification on them which might give the un-initiated the wrong impression?

Yes, each bike has a unique number on the side so, allegedly, users can be warned or even have their membership cancelled if they are spotted committing various offences (RLJ, riding on pavements, etc) by CCTV and the like. Don't stop most Boris Bike users riding through red lights though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 15 June, 2011, 01:44:09 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 15 June, 2011, 01:40:33 pm
Quote from: jogler on 15 June, 2011, 01:38:32 pm
Do Boris Bikes have any indentification on them which might give the un-initiated the wrong impression?

 Don't stop most Boris Bike users riding through red lights though.

Probably because the brakes don't work  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 15 June, 2011, 01:44:44 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 15 June, 2011, 01:34:33 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 15 June, 2011, 01:33:33 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 15 June, 2011, 12:49:36 pm
I was at the traffic lights in Camberwell at about 8:35p.m. last night. At the junction going north one of your members (wearing the full regalia) set out from the traffic lights and was using his mobile phone.

May I point out that a) it is not doing your organisation any good if one of your members is disobeying the law

Is cycling whilst using a mobile phone against the law?


No.

And...

Google cache of answer on the Ask The Police website (https://webcache.googleusercontent.com/search?q=cache:6gfT01UHqhEJ:https://www.askthe.police.uk/content/Q604.htm+&cd=1&hl=en&ct=clnk&client=firefox-a&source=encrypted.google.com)

(Linking direct to the question dumps you at a page asking for your postcode to link you to your local force, hence the Google Cache link.)

So no, not a specific offence, and unlikely to be done for careless riding or riding without due care and consideration since these offences are rarely ever persued even for knob heads that ride like twats without a mobile phone in their hand.

Don't see what relevance the one-armed comment is. Mobile phone use is more about distraction than not having both hands on the bars/steering-wheel. Do one-armed cyclists have to have their bikes specifically modified so that they can activate both independent braking systems?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: geoff on 15 June, 2011, 01:54:05 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 15 June, 2011, 01:44:44 pm

<snip>... since these offences are rarely ever persued even for knob heads that ride like twats without a mobile phone in their hand.
<unsnip>


Thought whilst enjoying this correspondence: "if riding like a twonk was a prosecuted offence in Oxford, the city's streets would be almost empty".

Ah me, you Lunnon folks don't know you're born... ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 June, 2011, 01:54:43 pm
 i don'tlike london dynamo : General Chat &bull; 220 Triathlon (http://www.220triathlon.com/forum/post33027.html)

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 15 June, 2011, 01:55:14 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 15 June, 2011, 01:33:33 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 15 June, 2011, 12:49:36 pm
I was at the traffic lights in Camberwell at about 8:35p.m. last night. At the junction going north one of your members (wearing the full regalia) set out from the traffic lights and was using his mobile phone.

May I point out that a) it is not doing your organisation any good if one of your members is disobeying the law

Is cycling whilst using a mobile phone against the law?

I know there's a specific motoring offence but wasn't aware of one for cycling too.

I was getting carried away  ;D Yes you are right:

Quote
A bicycle is a vehicle but according to the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986, amended 2003, it is only illegal to drive a motor vehicle while using a mobile phone. There is nothing about bicycles in the phrasing so, in effect, cyclists are exempt from this extremely sensible law. That doesn’t mean cycling while phoning or texting is not dangerous and you could be pulled over for a related, not-paying-due-care-and-attention offence.

Thanks Clarion and Tim for both series of links - I had no idea of their rep. I took my sis out to Richmond Park recently and I have to say the faster pootlers out there were very polite and courteous. The only downside was when a 'serious cyclist' got abusive at my sister because she had deigned to have her back wheel next to another path that he was turning into.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 June, 2011, 02:04:45 pm
No law against using a mobile while riding, but I think we can agree it's a very stupid thing to do.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 15 June, 2011, 02:32:46 pm
I got a very rapid response from their Club Secretary:

Quote
Dear her_welshness,

Many thanks for flagging this up with me. London Dynamo take the conduct of our members very seriously and encourage responsible behaviour when wearing the club kit or otherwise.

Although, using a telephone whilst riding your bicycle isn't technically disobeying the law, it is in my opinion, rather dangerous! Obviously I can't identify the particular member that you witnessed (unless you can provide further details) but I will pass your message on using our club bulletin board and hopefully it will make members think twice about using their telephone whilst riding.

It may be of interest for you to know that one of our members is the founder of quickerbybike.com which encourages considerate cycling. Many of our members proudly wear the quickerbybike kit so we do like to think of ourselves as ambassadors for safe and legal riding.

I believe we, as cyclists, will struggle to win favour with other road users if we cannot ride in a considerate manner on the road. It makes me very angry when I see cyclists brazenly riding through red lights, especially when they appear to be - judging by the stickers on their bike - a member of the London Cycling Campaign themselves! It's a very poor representation of the campaign and cyclists in general. In that respect you may understand how difficult it is to exert control over individual riders' actions!

Anyway thanks again for you email. I will pas the details on to our membership along with a more general message, reasserting the need to ride considerately.

Kind regards,
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ScumOfTheRoad on 15 June, 2011, 02:59:39 pm
Chaps, this is the "on the commute today" thread.
By all means start a "bash the London dynamo" thread if you like. Or would that be something liek bashing the bishop?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 June, 2011, 03:26:59 pm
Going back, we're discussing an incident on H_W's commute, involving dodgy activity by a London Dynamo rider.  No intention to bash them, particularly, but they bring it on themselves.  See this thread for the aggressive and abusive way in which some members react to criticism (and, importantly, the constructive way in which others, like pinkbikini, do)
London Dynamo In Richmond Park - Please Be More Considerate | Sportives/Audaxes/Training Rides | Road | Forums - BikeRadar (http://www.bikeradar.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=12591102&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=0)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 15 June, 2011, 03:27:17 pm
Quote from: ScumOfTheRoad on 15 June, 2011, 02:59:39 pm
Chaps, this is the "on the commute today" thread.
By all means start a "bash the London dynamo" thread if you like. Or would that be something liek bashing the bishop?

(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-wkyUoqopv1I/TfjBECNQWmI/AAAAAAAAdLE/UdZRF466qhI/s640/LD.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 15 June, 2011, 03:32:02 pm
Perhaps I was just being as generalising as you, Clarion?  It doesn't make it right. :-*

If you want to make a real change, you need to give the club evidence that they can actually work with.  General whinging isn't going to enable them do anything effective about the issue, and it's not much of a Dale Carnegie.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 15 June, 2011, 03:32:51 pm
Quote from: clarion on 15 June, 2011, 03:26:59 pm
Going back, we're discussing an incident on H_W's commute, involving dodgy activity by a London Dynamo rider.  No intention to bash them, particularly, but they bring it on themselves.  See this thread for the aggressive and abusive way in which some members react to criticism (and, importantly, the constructive way in which others, like pinkbikini, do)
London Dynamo In Richmond Park - Please Be More Considerate | Sportives/Audaxes/Training Rides | Road | Forums - BikeRadar (http://www.bikeradar.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=12591102&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=0)


It's the implication from one of their members that it would best if other cyclists avoided that stretch of the road in RP as its their ride going on at that time which came across as arrogant.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 15 June, 2011, 03:36:57 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 15 June, 2011, 03:32:02 pm
Perhaps I was just being as generalising as you, Clarion?  It doesn't make it right. :-*

If you want to make a real change, you need to give the club evidence that they can actually work with.  General whinging isn't going to enable them do anything effective about the issue, and it's not much of a Dale Carnegie.

I think we are observing particular instances of commuting behaviour which are not just dangerous but frankly pathetic. His Leggships report was the worst I feel. We are absolutely right to report any instances of twazzockness to them as they themselves are completely brilliant at trying to promote safer cycling amongst their members and they quite rightly want to stamp it out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 15 June, 2011, 04:04:28 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 15 June, 2011, 03:36:57 pm
I think we are observing particular instances of commuting behaviour which are not just dangerous but frankly pathetic. His Leggships report was the worst I feel. We are absolutely right to report any instances of twazzockness to them as they themselves are completely brilliant at trying to promote safer cycling amongst their members and they quite rightly want to stamp it out.

Totally, I agree with you on reporting stuff.  I also think that we can't expect the club to do much effectively unless we can give them some way of identifying the rider.  I know that the expression "When you have a hammer every problem starts to look like a nail" probably applies well to me, but getting video footage of people doing this stuff in obviously identifiable club kit has got to be a good way of helping the club sort out what I imagine are the relatively few badly behaving members.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: greeno76 on 15 June, 2011, 04:35:25 pm
Quote
Dear her_welshness,

Many thanks for flagging this up with me. London Dynamo take the conduct of our members very seriously and encourage responsible behaviour when wearing the club kit or otherwise.

Although, using a telephone whilst riding your bicycle isn't technically disobeying the law, it is in my opinion, rather dangerous! Obviously I can't identify the particular member that you witnessed (unless you can provide further details) but I will pass your message on using our club bulletin board and hopefully it will make members think twice about using their telephone whilst riding.

It may be of interest for you to know that one of our members is the founder of quickerbybike.com which encourages considerate cycling. Many of our members proudly wear the quickerbybike kit so we do like to think of ourselves as ambassadors for safe and legal riding.

I believe we, as cyclists, will struggle to win favour with other road users if we cannot ride in a considerate manner on the road. It makes me very angry when I see cyclists brazenly riding through red lights, especially when they appear to be - judging by the stickers on their bike - a member of the London Cycling Campaign themselves! It's a very poor representation of the campaign and cyclists in general. In that respect you may understand how difficult it is to exert control over individual riders' actions!

Anyway thanks again for you email. I will pas the details on to our membership along with a more general message, reasserting the need to ride considerately.

Kind regards,

Jason Green, Club Sec. London Dynamo

London Dynamo is a large and disparate group of individuals who are accountable for their own actions. We frequently re-assert the importance of safe and considerate riding in Richmond Park or elsewhere.

Having a conspicuous presence in London, and in particular SW London allows people to direct their feedback to us easily which allows us to take steps to change behaviour where we can.

I'm a member of this forum so now you have a dangerous and arrogant rider amongst your ranks. I'm also a member for the LCC, CTC and BC. You see how hard it is to control your peer group? Ok, you can ban me but hopefully you get my point.

Riding in Richmond park either in a group or on my own, as a frequently do, I witness all sorts of dangerous and erratic riding by any number of people on bicycles from 'serious' cyclists, members from other clubs and organisations to mums with kids in tow. I accept it knowing that people aren't perfect.

It's extremely unhelpful to recycle 2 year old forum threads of people's opinions about LD in order to reinforce bad and sometimes extreme feeling towards LD members who, by and large, are considerate and welcoming.

If you personally have any incidents that involve any of London Dynamo's members I would be happy to discuss it with you in person rather than via posts on forums. I'm pleased to read that some of the members of this forum have some more moderate, balanced views.

Please mail membership@londondynamo.co.uk if you wish to discuss this further or I can usually be found in Roehampton cafe around 10:10am on Saturday mornings (after my morning angry, arrogant, shouting at slower riders in the park  ::-) )

Kind regards,

Jason Green






Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 15 June, 2011, 06:48:51 pm
Rather depressingly, in London, in my experience, a quite large proportion (possibly a majority) of cyclists are very poor road users, and are frequently seen to ignore the law.

Whilst we frequently complain about cars, lorries, buses, taxis and so forth, in terms of the percentage of a class of users, I think that cyclists are by far and away the worst for conforming to the various legal requirements.

Whilst I'll probably see poor, bad, and even dangerous driving on my commute fairly regularly, I will see far more cyclists who are breaking the law.  Arguably it's not such an issue, since an HGV driver who does something like making a sudden and unexpected turn is far more likely to cause an incident than a cyclists is, and indeed in any interaction between the two, regardless of who caused it, the cyclist is almost certainly going to come off the worst.

Historically, whether justified or not, London Dynamo riders have a poor reputation for their behaviour.  I suspect that in reality their behaviour hasn't been any worse than the average cyclist in London, but their club jerseys make them easily identifiable, and the size of the club probably makes them more frequently categorised simply because most other cyclists will only fit into the category of "another cyclist", whereas Dynamo riders, as a class, possibly uniquely, are relatively common.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 15 June, 2011, 07:38:21 pm
Arrived home bang on 7pm, half an hour before the Ocado delivery van.  So did the Ocado delivery van.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 June, 2011, 08:10:28 pm
Bit late finishing at work, so I took a slight diversion and picked up the beautiful Butterfly en route.  57km today :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 15 June, 2011, 08:26:16 pm
Creaking seatpost (Specialised carbon effort) on the way to work this morning.
It felt a little wonky when I got to work so detoured via the LBS on the way home where it promptly snapped off (inside the LBS!!)
Replaced it with a cheapish (£19) alu device from Push - I have now broken both cheap and expensive alu posts and a carbon one so its going to be a case of "replace more often with not too expensive posts" in the future...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 15 June, 2011, 08:35:21 pm
Quote from: pdm on 15 June, 2011, 08:26:16 pm
Creaking seatpost (Specialised carbon effort) on the way to work this morning.
It felt a little wonky when I got to work so detoured via the LBS on the way home where it promptly snapped off (inside the LBS!!)
Replaced it with a cheapish (£19) alu device from Push - I have now broken both cheap and expensive alu posts and a carbon one so its going to be a case of "replace more often with not too expensive posts" in the future...

Pieter,
Whilst I have not snapped one yet I have had some trials and tribulations - especially with that USE one.
But the one I have at present is the Thomson elite ( here is the Bikeradar review (http://www.bikeradar.com/gear/category/components/seat-post-seat-pin/product/review-thomson-masterpiece-setback-11-42837/) and I agree with their comment about it lacking the comfort of carbon.  But, my first ride with my old Brooks on ti rails today combined with this post was sublime and better than carbon  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 15 June, 2011, 08:36:22 pm
Left a bit early, as the Hair Dressing Fairy was due to call at home, and I needed a trim.

Hammered (FSVO hammered) down the A23 & B2036, hampered by an overfull and heavy pannier. That and the headwind. Delighted in zipping past scores of cars queuing south on the approach to Horley.

Scored a good bit of road kill - 27mm combination spanner lying on the railway bridge on the B2036.

And home in time for a hair cut.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 June, 2011, 08:59:05 am
Wahey!  That was fun.  Butterfly had to be in work early, so I went in with her.  Clear roads and strong legs (and a slight tailwind) meant we managed an average of 25.8kph and put in a short loop.  She was still early for early, if you see what I mean.

I was enjoying riding on the flat, so, rather than hack through the ups & downs towards Clapham, I just took the easiest route down to Clapham Junction, where I saw a RLJer.  I was tempted to turn right to chase him down, but left him to it.

Rather than take one of the earlier bridges (if I'm heading downriver, I want to be on the North bank to pass Vauxhall), I followed the early bit of CS8, then picked up Queenstown Road (where I spotted the RLJer again, who had taken the 'quicker' option, and was spitting on the floor :sick: ).

Over Chelsea Bridge, which is as bad as ever, and on along Embankment.  I passed lots of cyclists, and reached 40kph on the flat, so I guess there was a local tailwind down the river.  Never mind, it made for a fun ride, and helped me scalp a couple of RLJers before turning over Lambeth Bridge.

Still very early for work, I turned up Blackfirars Road, where there was a pleasing number of cyclists, but a pathetically small cycle lane.  I got a rather nasty Punishment Pass from a wankybig pickup.  Sad, really.

Then up to Tooley Street, where I did see one fixed, but that was it.  On a whim, I rode out along Jamaica Road to see how far I could reasonably get. 

The queues for the Rotherhithe Tunnel were absolutely ridiculous, but didn't hold me up too much.  On to Surrey Quays, and straight on south east.

In no time at all, and before I expected it, I reached Greenwich.  I considered carrying on to Woolwich, but instead enjoyed the spin round the gyratory so, before I had actually made a decision, I was heading back, passing lines and lines of standing motor vehicles.

At Surrey Quays, I was confused a bit by that gyratory, and headed off down a different road by mistake.  Unable to take the right turn I wanted because of car dancing, I just headed on, and found myself on a familiar road (one I shall be taking this afternoon for a meeting, as it happens).  Knowing a cut back through from there, I turned off.

As I reached Old Kent Road, it started to rain.  Or, rather, I reached the rain, as I noted the ground was wet already.  I guess I just missed it when I passed through Southwark the first time.

So that decided me.  It was time to go to work, so I rode up OKR to Bricklayers, keeping the speed up as I went down NKR's convenient bus lane, bypassing many more static motor cars, and found a way to turn.

41km before work - more than I normally do in a day, and at a cracking pace (for me).  Lovely ride, largely on arterial routes, but relatively unaffected by motorists.  Excellent.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 16 June, 2011, 09:21:10 am
Wet.

Dry as I set off, first drops 50 yards later. Got progressively heavier until I was squishy wet by the time I got to Kingston. There's no wetter than that, and the rain stayed heavy until I got to work.

All in all great fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 16 June, 2011, 09:53:40 am
Was shouted at and threatened by two crazy drivers, this morning.  The first is known to me: silver Mazda that I often see at the turn-off from Brixton road on to Robstart Street (most memorably when she left-hooked me while reading a newspaper).  I was ahead of her into the turn, overtook the cyclist in front and stayed in primary position because it's a narrow, poorly surfaced minor road with parked cars at random intervals.  She drove all the way into the right hand lane, flashing her lights and beeping.  A parked car forced her to retreat before I could even react, but she wound down the window and was yelling something about "make foom for cars to overtake" as I turned right (having clearly signalled).

The second one tried to pull out from a side road across me on Prince of Wales drive.  I yelled "Wait!" and he stopped, but then he followed me and drove alongside, shouting about how stupid I was when he could run me against a bus if he wanted.  I ignored him and he lost steam and decided to go back the way he had intended.

On the final stretch of road before the turn off to work, was cheered by a car with a plush toy attached to the rear window: heart-shaped, in the colours of the Jamaican flag, with a large cannabis leaf embroidered on it.

Wet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 16 June, 2011, 10:42:12 am
Highlight of this morning's commute: facing down a taxi driver infringing the contraflow cycle lane on Lower Ground, SE1. Had it not been for the fact that a) it was pissing down with rain, and b) I was late for work, I would have stood my ground and made him back up, but I made my point* then went on my way with an earful of vernacular taxidriverese.

d.

*the point being that it would have been quicker for him to wait a couple of seconds to let me go first rather than trying to bully his way through. I refuse to be intimidated by fuckwits like that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 June, 2011, 10:53:12 am
Some people are too meatheaded to learn anything.

Like how to drive.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 16 June, 2011, 11:07:10 am
Silent wheelsucker latched on  almost literally - there looked to be no space whatsoever between his front wheel and mine. I accelerated a bit, then a bit more, then a bit more. Dropped him.  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 16 June, 2011, 11:09:25 am
Saw another recumbent by Oval yesterday, green bike, 20-20 wheels, rider with yellow helmet.


    YouTube
        - ‪20110615 another recumbent spotted‬&rlm;
   (http://youtu.be/l1OsbdqwkRQ)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 16 June, 2011, 11:10:15 am
...and did a couple of somewhat dodgy filtering moves myself that I'm not proud of.  Will do better next time...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 16 June, 2011, 11:18:37 am
Wow, with you and Jane's commuting exploits Clarion you are making me jealous!

That was fun and wet today. Sitting at home the weather was beautiful and Carol Kirkwood was saying that there was going to be masses of rain. Where from I wondered?

As I set off the clouds were beginning to amass and by Peckham it was coming down. A couple of acts of numptyness along the commute. One driver was trying to turn right onto the A202 at Camberwell from a side road and hit the back of a motorcycle  :facepalm: I asked him if he was OK and the driver apologised. Then as I was passing alongside Chelsea bridge this dickhead sailed through the red lights and was heading straight towards me when I said 'what. do. you. think. you. are. doing' and gave him the paddington bear stare. So he stopped and pulled in behind me.

At Brompton I was bidding a couple of police motorcyclists good morning and they said I was very chirpy for such a wet morning! I am really enjoying my longer commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 16 June, 2011, 11:41:24 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 16 June, 2011, 11:18:37 am
At Brompton I was bidding a couple of police motorcyclists good morning and they said I was very chirpy for such a wet morning! I am really enjoying my longer commute.

 :thumbsup:

I was on my bike for the first time in ages this morning and even though I got soaked, I thoroughly enjoyed it, idiot taxi driver notwithstanding.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 16 June, 2011, 01:26:28 pm
Strobing vision 5 miles into the ride this morning.  Hadn't eaten quite enough, early enough I think.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 16 June, 2011, 01:34:25 pm
I had a moment this morning where my only thought was 'This is going to hurt.'  I think I avoided a head-on with a motorcyclist by about two inches. We both managed to do just enough, in complimentary directions to avoid an impact. As I stood by the side of the road pulling myself together I felt a hand on my shoulder. The motorcyclist had parked up and walked back to apologise, something I was extremely grateful for. It made the aftermath so much easier to deal with.
I'll save my wrath for the pillock that repeatedly drove into me in Dulwich.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 16 June, 2011, 01:55:22 pm
Quote from: matthew on 14 June, 2011, 12:50:48 pm
So should I be asking all the officers I see if they are Fuzzy, or have you avoided Ascot duty this year?

The problem is the Taxis and drunks, they are both highly unpredictable except that they will do just what you don't whant them to.

Excused Ascot duty this year :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 16 June, 2011, 01:58:21 pm
Quote from: greeno76 on 15 June, 2011, 04:35:25 pm

Jason Green, Club Sec. London Dynamo

edited by fuzzy to save space etc

I'm a member of this forum so now you have a dangerous and arrogant rider amongst your ranks. I'm also a member for the LCC, CTC and BC. You see how hard it is to control your peer group? Ok, you can ban me but hopefully you get my point.



Jason,

Welcome aboard :thumbsup:

Don't worry about the Dynamo Bashing.

It isn't personal and we all know it is a minority giving the majority a bad name.

I get the same in relation to work ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 16 June, 2011, 02:07:46 pm
Yeah, Jason.  You wouldn't believe how tired the PCA are of hearing us moan about Fuzzy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 June, 2011, 04:02:39 pm
Quote from: benborp on 16 June, 2011, 01:34:25 pm
I had a moment this morning where my only thought was 'This is going to hurt.'  I think I avoided a head-on with a motorcyclist by about two inches. We both managed to do just enough, in complimentary directions to avoid an impact. As I stood by the side of the road pulling myself together I felt a hand on my shoulder. The motorcyclist had parked up and walked back to apologise, something I was extremely grateful for. It made the aftermath so much easier to deal with.

That's good to hear.

Quote
I'll save my wrath for the pillock that repeatedly drove into me in Dulwich.

That less so.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 16 June, 2011, 04:42:32 pm
This is the kind of thing that I love so much on my commute:


    YouTube
        - ‪20110615 amusing conversation‬&rlm;
   (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=68A6HZ44oCE)

Chatting at the lights is such a joy.  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 16 June, 2011, 08:58:56 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 16 June, 2011, 04:42:32 pm
This is the kind of thing that I love so much on my commute:


    YouTube
        - ‪20110615 amusing conversation‬&rlm;
   (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=68A6HZ44oCE)

Chatting at the lights is such a joy.  :D

 ;D

You can get similar banter on FNRttC with the drivers, particularly if marking a junction or stopped at lights.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 16 June, 2011, 09:07:33 pm
Quote from: matthew on 16 June, 2011, 08:58:56 pm
You can get similar banter on FNRttC with the drivers, particularly if marking a junction or stopped at lights.

Trick there is to make the first move:

"Where are you all going?"
"Erm, home?"
"Wow, that's quite a way, how long's it going to take you?"
"...About 20 minutes?"
"Is it for charity?"
"..."
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 June, 2011, 09:37:13 pm
Well, what with this morning's ride, and the (slightly extended) trip to anothe practice for a meeting, and a ride home via Butterfly's work, I managed a total of 75km today.  That's more than I did on Sunday, when I rode the South Downs Randonnee ;D

Even though it got a bit wet towards the end, it was a good ride, and having the opportunity to ride with Butterfly for her commute was very pleasant indeed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 16 June, 2011, 11:13:33 pm
Quote from: Kim on 16 June, 2011, 09:07:33 pm
Quote from: matthew on 16 June, 2011, 08:58:56 pm
You can get similar banter on FNRttC with the drivers, particularly if marking a junction or stopped at lights.

Trick there is to make the first move:

"Where are you all going?"
"Erm, home?"
"Wow, that's quite a way, how long's it going to take you?"
"...About 20 minutes?"
"Is it for charity?"
"..."

LMAO!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 16 June, 2011, 11:17:13 pm
^^ True example.  On the last FNRttC to Southend, while stopped to regroup in I forget which town, a couple of girls asked us which charity we were supporting.  "We're not doing this for charity."  "Well, you should be!"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 17 June, 2011, 12:03:32 am
Was looking forward to riding home on new tyres on freshly sluiced roads that had just about dried. The first corner had the fresh rubber squeaking - but that was soon drowned out as I turned into the wind and my cleaned drivetrain started to grumble. It took about eight miles to settle down by which time I was nearly home. A small extension to the commute was required.

I don't normally post video here but this morning was unusual:

Near miss and apology (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ekSMrAL-N9E)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 17 June, 2011, 12:07:47 am
Wow Ben, just wow.  I shat myself watching that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 17 June, 2011, 12:11:42 am
So close, in crappy conditions. Glad that went the way it did.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 17 June, 2011, 12:24:39 am
Quote from: Wendy on 17 June, 2011, 12:07:47 am
Wow Ben, just wow.  I shat myself watching that.

+N

F.U.C.K.  how you weren't knocked off by his manoeuvre I can't understand.  I so crapped myself watching it.  Even after a few replay's I don't know how he managed to get so close and not take you out.

Soooo glad you' re not splatted.

F.U.C.K.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 17 June, 2011, 12:28:07 am
Quote from: Oaky on 17 June, 2011, 12:24:39 am
Quote from: Wendy on 17 June, 2011, 12:07:47 am
Wow Ben, just wow.  I shat myself watching that.

+N

F.U.C.K.  how you weren't knocked off by his manoeuvre I can't understand.  I so crapped myself watching it.  Even after a few replay's I don't know how he managed to get so close and not take you out.

Soooo glad you' re not splatted.

F.U.C.K.


I had seen your comment so knew some of what was coming but I still couldn't see where or how you missed each other.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 17 June, 2011, 07:07:58 am
Blow out on the way to work yesterday, luckily only just over a mile from home.  I changed the tube and couldn't find the cause for the immediate loss of all pressure - so I returned home.  Once the bike was on the rack I felt the tyre bulge and then found the gap in the outer casing and the inner casing so took off the Schwalbe Durano Plus and put on an old Michelin Krylion. 
Glad I trusted my spidey sense and returned home as I wouldn't have got far on that tyre.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 June, 2011, 08:05:10 am
Rode in with Butterfly for an early start.  Even with a bit of backstreet bimbling, we managed 25kph.  Nice clear roads in the main, and very few numpties about.

Well, there were a couple of them on bikes.  But nothing too desperate.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 17 June, 2011, 12:30:58 pm
Set a new record for the ride from my house to the station this morning, breaking the 9 minute barrier for the first time, average speed just shy of 30km/h.

Of course, I would have needed to break the 8 minute barrier to actually catch my train...  :facepalm:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 17 June, 2011, 12:45:48 pm
I was really annoyed by the weather forecast this morning.  Local and National forecast on BBC breakfast implied it would be pissing down and very cold.  So I put on my rain jacket before I left the house.  After a few miles I overheating, the sky was overcast but no sign of rain and not that cold.  As I continued there was the occasional drop but nothing to make me wear the coat. 

Serves me right for not using the looking out the window forecast. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 17 June, 2011, 01:18:38 pm
I went with the looking-out-the-window forecast and wore a short-sleeved jersey.  Would have been sweating in a waterproof.

Had great racing legs, this morning, despite not having breakfast till arriving at work.  The workings of my body mistify me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 17 June, 2011, 01:40:05 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 17 June, 2011, 01:18:38 pm
I went with the looking-out-the-window forecast and wore a short-sleeved jersey.  Would have been sweating in a waterproof.

Had great racing legs, this morning, despite not having breakfast till arriving at work.  The workings of my body mistify me.


I've been suffering lately with breakfast - never had any issues eating before riding until v recently but find if I do have breakfast before I leave I am very uncomfortable for the first 10 - 12 miles. If I don't eat I end up bonking towards the end, especially if I ride lively. Tried a variant yesterday which was to have a rest  in Hyde park and chew an oaty-fruity bar. Seemed to work and was rather fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 17 June, 2011, 01:58:58 pm
And then the squirrels attack!

Sorry, my embattled commuter mindset getting the better of me again ;).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 17 June, 2011, 02:01:10 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 16 June, 2011, 11:17:13 pm
^^ True example.  On the last FNRttC to Southend, while stopped to regroup in I forget which town, a couple of girls asked us which charity we were supporting.  "We're not doing this for charity."  "Well, you should be!"

LOL, I remember that, however I also can't remember where it was!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sigod on 17 June, 2011, 02:32:00 pm
Felt distinctly out of sorts this morning in my head. All the usual power in my limbs abut absolutely no desire at all to use it. I pootled along, watching cyclist after cyclist overtake me (I swear one was on a unicycle) and looked gloomy.

It might be the impedning soaking which forecasters are er...forecasting in the London area this afternoon, that's bringing me down but I usually have little or no issue with getting wet (especially on the return journey where I KNOW I can dry off at the other end).

On the upside, all the other cyclists looked happy enough.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 17 June, 2011, 02:37:15 pm
Quote from: TimO on 17 June, 2011, 02:01:10 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 16 June, 2011, 11:17:13 pm
^^ True example.  On the last FNRttC to Southend, while stopped to regroup in I forget which town, a couple of girls asked us which charity we were supporting.  "We're not doing this for charity."  "Well, you should be!"

LOL, I remember that, however I also can't remember where it was!

Brentwood. Methinks. We were there forever....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 17 June, 2011, 07:47:06 pm
Neoprene, Goretex and Rainlegs to the rescue today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 June, 2011, 10:29:10 pm
Hmm.  If this is what it's like being an optimist, I'm giving it up.

I got away early from work, and thought the weather forecast was being a bit downbeat.  I had to meet TGL in town, so I went for a ride round.  Up to Hyde Park, where the light drizzle had turned into a shower, then down through Knightsbridge (Arse! Exhibition Road is very closed :( ) and through to Fulham Rd, where I found a cafe to shelter from what had become rain.

Moving on, I rode along Embankment to the Cafe, but didn't stop, turned round and rode back to Chelsea Bridge, through Battersea Park and across to Clapham Junction.  The rain was getting heavy now, so I went inside.

After having another tea with TGL, I set off to ride home, but the precipitation had gone beyond what could reasonably be described as rain.  The roads were flowing, there were standing puddles and standing motor traffic getting in the way, leading to over-aggressive pillockry from our motorised brethren.

I bailed.  I'm not one to bail normally, but I bailed to Balham station.  I could just imagine Tooting's drivers, with their free jazz interpretations of Give Way, and the low part of my route which builds up puddles which reach right across the lane, meaning you can easily get a total soaking from an inattentive wanker in a car passing too close and too fast.

Just wasn't worth it.

Tomorrow, I shall return to my usual pessimistic demeanour.  That way, I'm not going to be disappointed, am I?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 18 June, 2011, 10:47:02 am
It was raining properly by the time I left work yesterday, and there was a stinking headwind, but I decided to just enjoy the ride anyway. And so I did. When I reached Bromley, I had some time before my train so popped into the chippy for some warming sustenance. Sat in my wet clothes on the train for an hour, cursing the train air conditioning but otherwise happy, then got another soaking on my way home from the station this end. Arrived home somewhat bedraggled but deeply happy in the way that only riding your bike can make you feel.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 18 June, 2011, 01:57:28 pm
Amidst the deluge last night I was nearly sideswiped by a woman driving along with a baby sitting on her knee.  And I mean a baby - perhaps about 6 months old.  Unbelievable!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 18 June, 2011, 02:16:22 pm
Quote from: clarion on 17 June, 2011, 10:29:10 pm
... through Knightsbridge (Arse! Exhibition Road is very closed :( ...

Exhibition Road, and the approaches to South Kensington Station have been buggered up to some extent for a couple of years, and I think that's it'll be until at least the end of this year before they finish, if not longer. :-\

I was worried a bit about what effect the project would have on access to work, but I've got so used to avoiding that part of South Ken, that it won't make a lot of difference now, if I need to continue to use alternative routes!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 June, 2011, 05:54:20 pm
I had naively assumed that, because I'd heard of the works a long time ago, it would probably be clear by now :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 18 June, 2011, 07:09:25 pm
They do seem to be taking an absolute age to complete it all.  I think bits of Exhibition Road are still two way, but sections are one way, and it changes every so often, so the whole area is best avoided.  I'm not even sure currently how bad the route along Exhibition Road is, and whether I can get across the junction with Cromwell Road, I'm just generally keeping away from the area.  Luckily (sort of) I don't need to use it at the moment!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 20 June, 2011, 07:39:30 pm
Waking up at 03:30 for no good reason is not conducive to a cycle commute, but did manage to use a Boris Bike this morning.

After work had to head up to Hoxton from the City before going on to Whitechapel, so I used a BB again.  In the rain.  In my full office clobber, no jacket.  I got utterly drenched.  And I loved it.  ;D

Saw lots of miserable looking people on bikes, but I was smiling ear to ear.

In spite of the fun this evening, I think I'll be back to my usual commuting style tomorrow.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 June, 2011, 08:55:13 pm
Very wet on the way home again, but yeah, it was fun.  I could tire of it after a while, you know, but it's OK for now...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 20 June, 2011, 09:25:12 pm
Yup, got soaked again but had a very pleasant ride. Arrived at Bromley to bump into my colleague getting off the train (he lives there). Funnily enough, I also bumped into him at Bromley station on Friday, and I was soaked then too. He must think I'm mental. :)

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 20 June, 2011, 10:18:15 pm
The path from Bass Rec to the riverside path is shut for rebuilding for a further 4 weeks.  So I use the road - Pride Parkway.

I slipstreamed an empty double-decker bus from the road-junction-that-used-to-be-the-Cock-Pit-roundabout most of the way up the bridge over the railway line.  30mph on the flat bit, with the speed melting away to 15mph at the summit.  Usually I'm doing 8mph all the way up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 20 June, 2011, 10:26:20 pm
I had a couple of cracking rides today: decided to go to work the Slightly Long route and took a detour by the river and Millennium Bridge, just because I felt like it.

Did more or less the same on the way home, albeit via the station so I could pick up the requisite bits of orange cardboard for Thursday night's pub ride. The downside was the hipster singularity around York Station - get some brakes or get the fuck off the road, seriously. I wish I could put my boot up the arse of every single one of them but I'd run out of feet in short order.

The up-side of all this was leaving some floppy-haired fakenger idiot flailing in my wake as I accelerated away from the lights at Skeldergate on bright orange bike with a 71" gear, two brakes, mudguards *and* a saddlebag ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 20 June, 2011, 11:00:34 pm
There was a chap on a lovely Wilier Triestina I was playing leapfrog with through Denmark Hill and Dulwich but I completely blew him away on Fountain Drive. Most satisfying. :smug:

Can't claim a win though cos of the Rapha-Condor rider who breezed past me halfway up looking like he was making absolutely no effort. The sod!

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 21 June, 2011, 07:25:03 am
Somewhere about the half way mark on this morning's trip in my cranky old grid reached the 20,000 mile mark.  Actually, more accurately, bits of my cranky old grid reached the 20,000 mile mark. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 21 June, 2011, 07:49:45 am
Had a little pootle through the park this morning. 

It was thankfully free of mobile poo producers and I spotted a sparrowhawk, looking at me all regal and imperious.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 June, 2011, 08:05:18 am
Rode in with Butterfly this morning.  Very fast in parts, and more cyclists than I normally see on an early commute, which was great.

The only downside was that Butterfly's chain unshipped three times in all - once in the middle of Oval junction! :o

It needs some time spent adjusting and testing :(

But a grand ride nonetheless.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 21 June, 2011, 08:43:02 am
Quote from: interzen on 20 June, 2011, 10:26:20 pm
The downside was the hipster singularity around York Station - get some brakes or get the fuck off the road, seriously.
It's like some slow contagion, isn't it?  I passed (going opposite direction) one last night. Lovely Harry Hill frame, no bar tape on drops, no brakes. Singlespeed. Stupid fucker.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 21 June, 2011, 09:49:32 am
Along Thorpe Road there are some private schools with concealed exits onto the main road. Cycling along and a car had played edgy-outy and was almost completely blocking the lane. I skirted round the front of the car, then couldn't help raising a palm in a shrug at the driver, who gave me the finger in response. A young lady driver. Nearly anything that's an implied criticism of driving gets the same response, male or female, it seems.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 21 June, 2011, 10:44:29 am
Quote from: spindrift on 21 June, 2011, 09:49:32 am
the driver, who gave me the finger in response. A young lady driver. Nearly anything that's an implied criticism of driving gets the same response, male or female, it seems.

Is it not a tacit acknowledgement by the digit-owner that they recognise they are out of order & have not the vocabulary nor intelligence to express themselves articulately? ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 21 June, 2011, 10:49:57 am
I was talking to a colleague and said "Maybe I exacerbated it. There was no need for me to shrug, the response was predictable". Better by far to rise above it and retain one's zen-like calmness. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 21 June, 2011, 12:01:47 pm
28.9kph rolling average
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 21 June, 2011, 12:04:00 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 21 June, 2011, 09:49:32 am
Along Thorpe Road there are some private schools with concealed exits onto the main road. Cycling along and a car had played edgy-outy and was almost completely blocking the lane. I skirted round the front of the car, then couldn't help raising a palm in a shrug at the driver, who gave me the finger in response. A young lady driver. Nearly anything that's an implied criticism of driving gets the same response, male or female, it seems.

Easy.  AIRZOUND!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 June, 2011, 12:04:29 pm
Quote from: simonp on 21 June, 2011, 12:01:47 pm
28.9kph rolling average

*resolves never to try to pass simonp*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 21 June, 2011, 12:17:19 pm
Yesterday, on the rather wet (but fun) commute I had just cycled past Peckham bus garage on the A202 when a rather determined chap in his BMW decided to take a sneaky dash across my path (from a side street). I slowed down very quickly and after a few yards I heard one hell of a sound, looked round and because of the arc that the car took and the wet conditions the car it had taken a spin! Anyway, I hope he pooped his panties.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 June, 2011, 12:18:16 pm
I hope so too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 21 June, 2011, 12:24:23 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 21 June, 2011, 09:49:32 am
Along Thorpe Road

That part of those snotty back roads behind Fulbourne road? 'orrid things.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 21 June, 2011, 03:54:40 pm
Quote from: clarion on 21 June, 2011, 12:04:29 pm
Quote from: simonp on 21 June, 2011, 12:01:47 pm
28.9kph rolling average

*resolves never to try to pass simonp*

I actually felt quite heavy-legged when I set off.  But once I got going I was happy.  Windy day, but it was mainly a cross wind.

It's only a 4.5 mile commute at the moment, so I hardly get warmed up and I'm there.  I did 17 miles at that speed on the way to work a few weeks ago, though.

Really want to try it on a fast bike (I was on my Pompino) to see what difference that makes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 June, 2011, 04:00:45 pm
Funny that some of my very fastest rides start with legs feeling terribly heavy.  Though even my fastest might leave you feeling disappointed ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 June, 2011, 09:25:32 pm
Felt like Batman on the way home.  Sort of.

And it's damn good (for once - well, twice) that cyclists are invisible.

So I took the long way home into the wind in every direction.

What?  Needs some unravelling?  OK, so here goes:

I was just leaving work - a bit early, as it happens, as I'd had an early start.  And I saw some kids from the local school (recently in the news) sauntering past.

So far, so uninteresting.  Sorry.

But then it got more interesting.  Much more interesting.

One of the lads took a look around him to check the coast was clear, and ran across the road to where a BSO was locked to a stand.  He picked up the bike and yanked it as hard as he could three times to break the lock, but it didn't give, even though it was cheap and crappy. 

Of course, the coast wasn't clear.  I was there, and I saw it all, so I rode straight towards the miscreant and said 'Yeah?'.  Not sure what else I could do, or would do, if it turned nasty.  But the lads ran off past the Mosque.

I picked up the bike and wondered about calling the Police.  Not a lot of point - nothing was stolen, and they wouldn't take one person's word against two.  But the school was nearby, so I rode there.

At the reception, I spoke to the security guard, but was overheard by a group of about four staff preparing to leave, who were interested in what I had to say.  I gave them a description, and they thought they knew who we were talking about.

They asked me to send a written account of what happened so they could progress things tomorrow.  I thought that would be a good idea, and about as far as it would go, so I got on my bike and was on my way, riding home.

Well, not yet, as it happens.

I had a thought about the perpetrator.  He might have escaped through the park, but I reckoned there was a chance he was more stupid than that.  I had a look up the street.  There they were, kicking around a hi-viz football.  Of course, I was still invisible.

I doubled back, and found three of the staff walking up the road.  I told them where the kids were, pointed out the (thankfully still un-stolen) bike, and waited.  I followed up the sidestreet to see if I could be useful, but I didn't want to get too involved at that point.  As I walked away, the more senior looking of the teachers went from mild-mannered reasonable person to splenetic teacher, and I saw the kids slinking off from the earbending.

And then I set off for the long way home. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 21 June, 2011, 10:32:06 pm
I go to some small lengths to avoid routes with legions of cyclists in SCR mode, like Old St etc, and I've noticed that High Holborn is getting a bit like that, too.  My normal tendency is to let them be in front at the off, but if I'm in front at the lights, to move off sharpish and (mostly) leave them all behind. Cue such a scene, with a bit-better-than-BSO-but-neglected bike on my inside. Under starters orders and we're off. Much huffing and then a minor explosion behind me. I stopped to see he was OK (chain gone) and left him to the lonely walk to the bike shop.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 22 June, 2011, 06:51:53 am
Quote from: clarion on 21 June, 2011, 09:25:32 pm
Felt like Batman on the way home.  Sort of.

And it's damn good (for once - well, twice) that cyclists are invisible.

So I took the long way home into the wind in every direction.

What?  Needs some unravelling?  OK, so here goes:

I was just leaving work - a bit early, as it happens, as I'd had an early start.  And I saw some kids from the local school (recently in the news) sauntering past.

So far, so uninteresting.  Sorry.

But then it got more interesting.  Much more interesting.

One of the lads took a look around him to check the coast was clear, and ran across the road to where a BSO was locked to a stand.  He picked up the bike and yanked it as hard as he could three times to break the lock, but it didn't give, even though it was cheap and crappy. 

Of course, the coast wasn't clear.  I was there, and I saw it all, so I rode straight towards the miscreant and said 'Yeah?'.  Not sure what else I could do, or would do, if it turned nasty.  But the lads ran off past the Mosque.

I picked up the bike and wondered about calling the Police.  Not a lot of point - nothing was stolen, and they wouldn't take one person's word against two.  But the school was nearby, so I rode there.

At the reception, I spoke to the security guard, but was overheard by a group of about four staff preparing to leave, who were interested in what I had to say.  I gave them a description, and they thought they knew who we were talking about.

They asked me to send a written account of what happened so they could progress things tomorrow.  I thought that would be a good idea, and about as far as it would go, so I got on my bike and was on my way, riding home.

Well, not yet, as it happens.

I had a thought about the perpetrator.  He might have escaped through the park, but I reckoned there was a chance he was more stupid than that.  I had a look up the street.  There they were, kicking around a hi-viz football.  Of course, I was still invisible.

I doubled back, and found three of the staff walking up the road.  I told them where the kids were, pointed out the (thankfully still un-stolen) bike, and waited.  I followed up the sidestreet to see if I could be useful, but I didn't want to get too involved at that point.  As I walked away, the more senior looking of the teachers went from mild-mannered reasonable person to splenetic teacher, and I saw the kids slinking off from the earbending.

And then I set off for the long way home. :)

Good for you. Most people in Londinium would simply look away.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 June, 2011, 09:27:50 am
I know.  Which is why I think it is important that I didn't.  The bike wasn't there this morning, but whether that means they stole it later, or the owner came back to it later, oblivious (I realised later i should have put a note on it discreetly) because I'd stood it back up against the stand, I don't know.

About to write the report for the school.

This morning's ride was fun.  Because we made good time, Butterfly stayed with me for a bit further to do a loop of Clapham Common before work, which was nice. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 22 June, 2011, 09:40:45 am
Set off on the Mercian, partly to test rebuilt rear wheel, partly because the Ribble's rear brake is gunged up.

200m from home, I go to change to the bigger ring. It's a bit stiff, the lever <sploing, spldge>

the bloody cable outer, which is newish coax stuff, has exploded. all because the cable inner is binding where it turns under the bottom bracket, and needed a hefty yank to get moving.

Turn round and ride home, comedy fashion, on 26 tooth chainring. Realise that although I have spare cable inner and outer, my cutters are 10 miles away on the boat. Transfer Bagman to Ribble,  clean up brake a bit, set off for work and discover that the 10mph headwind is in fact 20mph.

<sigh>
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 22 June, 2011, 11:40:54 am
I'm beginning to think that all the reported Londinium commutes are figments of folks imaginations.

Over the last few months I have spent a lot of time in various parts of that there city, including this Monday and Tuesday travelling by tube and foot between Paddington, Montague Street (British Museum area) and Liverpoo Street vicinity.

Not seen a single YACF jersey or familiar face.....

 ;)

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 June, 2011, 11:43:02 am
See, vat's norfa da wiva innit?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 22 June, 2011, 11:44:56 am
Is that Northern Norse? Jolly good.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 22 June, 2011, 11:48:19 am
Not strictly on a commute, but northbound on Southwark Bridge Road # Southwark Street about 45 minutes ago:

Black Mercedes people carrier, TfL licensed private hire vehicle.

Parked with hazards on, in the big blue ASL of CS7.

Surrounded by a trio of the Met's cycle-mounted finest who appeared, to all intents and purposes, to be giving the driver what-for.

I can't imagine why.

 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 22 June, 2011, 11:50:41 am
Quote from: simonp on 21 June, 2011, 12:01:47 pm
28.9kph rolling average

According to Runkeeper, I registered an overall average of 38km/h this morning.

Nothing to do with the GPS glitch that added several km to my route, of course.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 June, 2011, 11:53:39 am
Quote from: Jurek on 22 June, 2011, 11:48:19 am
...Mercedes ...Parked with hazards on, in the big blue ASL of CS7...Surrounded by a trio of the Met's cycle-mounted finest who appeared, to all intents and purposes, to be giving the driver what-for...
 

:thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 22 June, 2011, 11:53:57 am
Left chez vorsprung in heavy rain
Saw 3 kids cycling to school ( it is "cycle to school week" for them ) as opposed to 6 on the sunny monday

Shower had stopped by the top of the Blackdowns

Duct tape repair to the back of my eVent coat seems good
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 22 June, 2011, 11:54:22 am
Quote from: fuzzy on 22 June, 2011, 11:40:54 am
.... travelling by tube ....
Not seen a single YACF jersey or familiar face.....

 ;)



Could be a hint, there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 22 June, 2011, 12:38:56 pm
It was nice and sunny, if a little blowy, when I set off this morning, but I was running too late to make a ride of it.

Now it's pissing down. Again.

Summer my arse.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RJ on 22 June, 2011, 01:49:08 pm
Diverted via the city chambers for a roll & links, courtesy of Spokes and the cooncil; got fairly wet on the way to work; and fianlly remembered that my locker key is on the bunch I couldn't find in the flat this morning  :facepalm:

Hooray for baggy 3/4s  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 22 June, 2011, 02:49:26 pm
Quote from: Ham on 22 June, 2011, 11:54:22 am
Quote from: fuzzy on 22 June, 2011, 11:40:54 am
.... travelling by tube ....
Not seen a single YACF jersey or familiar face.....

 ;)



Could be a hint, there.

But don't overlook the ....and foot bit :D A lot of walking and eyes everywhere trying to find someone who I could accuse of having a slack chain.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 June, 2011, 04:46:28 pm
Quote
Dear Mr <Clarion>
 
Thank you for your email dated 03 May 2011, in relation to dangerous driving along Clapham Common.

As previously advised, your complaint has been registered with reference number 144760.

In order to provide you with a full response, the details of your complaint have been forwarded to our contractor, who are better placed to investigate your concerns. I have requested that they contact you on or before 12 July 2011 with their findings.

I hope you find the above to be satisfactory. Please contact me should you have any further queries.

Yours sincerely

Well, gee, thanks, but, y'know, don't put yourselves out rushing or anything.  I mean, I did identify the contractor in my original email and suggest you refer it to them.  But it's good to know you've been beavering away trying to deal with my complaint for seven weeks.  :facepalm:
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 23 June, 2011, 07:30:16 am
Very quiet,very quick,very dry & very warm at 0530hrs. ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 23 June, 2011, 08:41:34 am
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-B-RmeI9jy58/TgLs9whStkI/AAAAAAAAdQQ/oGkoPSW73Ik/s640/Photo0145.jpg)

Temptation, temptation.......

At 07:15 this morning I found this bunch just heading off on a London-Paris, and very narrowly escaped having a mid-life crisis moment. It was only a few miles later I realised that I didn't have a passport with me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 23 June, 2011, 08:54:01 am
Do you need a passport to travel within the EU?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 23 June, 2011, 08:56:08 am
It must be the day for midlife crisis moments.

What would have happened if you'd had your passport, and just gone?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 June, 2011, 09:25:20 am
That would have been fun. ;D

Last night, at Amen Corner, a motorbiker did a double take, then said:

'I've seen you'

Oh shit, I thought, what have I done?

'I've seen you just now.  In Balham.  Was that you?'

I pointed to my jersey.

'It was.  You're faaaaaaaaaaaast!'

:smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 June, 2011, 09:28:17 am
This morning was ridiculous driving and riding day.  More random pulling out from side streets into lines of cyclists than you could shake a stick at.  And RLJing?  The norm this morning >:(

Oh - pavement cycling. >:(

But I rode half way to work with Butterfly, and then met ChrisL, who I delayed rather by nattering before he headed off at the Oval.  Nice chat, though.  Lovely bloke to ride with, :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 23 June, 2011, 09:31:57 am
The commute home last night was dry and, in most parts, incident free.

I did however suffer a bit of a weather induced sphincter moment.

Descending Quarry Wood Lane from Winter Hill, I negotiated the hairpin with no issues so upped it to top gear and hammered down the rest of the hill. Approaching the roughly 90o left hander att he bottom, I grabbed several handfuls of brake lever, stuck my arse off the back of the Brooks and started to lean into the bend. As I shifted back into the saddle I saw that the earlier torrential rain had washed what looked to be about half a tonne of gravel from a nearby track and the surrounding margins into the road. Passing vehicles had sorted this into a nice 2" deep band in the middle of the road and at the apex, right accross my line :o

Lots of slippy slidey action but managed to stay upright.

The ride in this morning was perfect, though I do seem to be suffering from a loss of condition.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 23 June, 2011, 09:39:48 am
Quote from: Lindagordinho on 23 June, 2011, 08:56:08 am
It must be the day for midlife crisis moments.

What would have happened if you'd had your passport, and just gone?

All sh*t would have broken loose at work. Wife would probably have coped as long as I still had a job.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 23 June, 2011, 10:10:41 am
I am BORED with freakin' headwinds.

If only I could manage to leave the house early enough, I might get to ride with a tailwind one of these mornings.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 23 June, 2011, 10:27:11 am
At knocking-off time yesterday the heavens opened and the rain came down in buckets  :o. I decided to wait till it'd passed before venturing out, not looking forward to the Chicksands "boating lake" that appears in the road by the tennis courts every time it rains  >:( .

Anyhoo. As I came flying down the hill I saw some children paddling in the road. As I moved to the centre of the road (where the water is shallowest) the children started shouting "Faster Mister. Go on. Faster!"

So I did.

I took the 20-yard puddle at 26mph, with a loud SKOOOOOSH and the water spraying magnificently out sideways off my mudguards. The kids were in hysterics and I rode home with a big grin on my face.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 23 June, 2011, 11:09:44 am
Omg I was slow this morning.

20:30 for 7.8km 22.8kph average; 71" gear two full panniers, barley, messenger bag.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 23 June, 2011, 12:47:46 pm
Set a new PB for the morning commute 12.7miles in 42.21mins avg 18mph  :)
It's amazing what running late does for the legs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RJ on 23 June, 2011, 01:21:15 pm
Quote from: RJ on 22 June, 2011, 01:49:08 pm
Diverted via the city chambers for a roll & links, courtesy of Spokes and the cooncil; got fairly wet on the way to work; and fianlly remembered that my locker key is on the bunch I couldn't find in the flat this morning  :facepalm:

Hooray for baggy 3/4s  :-\

Today's free food was courtesy of Edinburgh Park's bike breakfast.  The new bike is now security marked, thanks to L&BP and BikeRegister (http://www.bikeregister.com/) :thumbsup:

Made it just in time, having dropped a small pirate at school (where it's pirate week for P1s and 2s).  No rain - and I found my keys and so am now "properly" dressed  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 23 June, 2011, 01:40:09 pm
Reflecting Clarion's earlier post, super ride this morning with good company from Clapham to Oval.  One of the huge pleasures of commuting by bike is ready access to casual, unplanned conversation, of which I've had more than my fair share of late.  And there is so much to talk about, what with wildly variable weather, my new 'bent, legion summer racers and wot not.

Oh, and jogler, yes, a passport is required to travel within the EU.  And photo ID is required for internal flights.  And if you're hiring a car, don't rely on your photo driving licence - they need the green paper as well and make a healthy profit charging the unprepared for verifying the photo licence with the DVLA.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 23 June, 2011, 01:53:03 pm
No scope for that on my cross-grain (SE to NW) commute.  That comes with the bitty, stop-start nature of the routes, which nearly doubles the time required (very frustrating that an 8.5 mile route takes 35 to 40 minutes).  On a less interrupted route, of the kind more typical in SW<->NE commutes, I'd be much more likely to find myself alongside somebody of a similar speed (and for long enough for a chat).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 23 June, 2011, 06:53:45 pm
Windy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 23 June, 2011, 07:13:06 pm
Quote from: Grub on 23 June, 2011, 06:53:45 pm
Windy.

I'm sick and tired of it.  >:(

All this week:
-> work: a near constant headwind
-> home: every direction, with gusty cross-winds
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 23 June, 2011, 08:42:08 pm
Same here. Fed up of riding into the wind to Bromley so this evening I decided to ride with the wind to Gravesend instead, even though it's double the distance.

And I bloody loved it. Especially coming off Shooters Hill into Welling. ;D

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 23 June, 2011, 08:44:08 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 23 June, 2011, 08:42:08 pm
Same here. Fed up of riding into the wind to Bromley so this evening I decided to ride with the wind to Gravesend instead, even though it's double the distance.

And I bloody loved it. Especially coming off Shooters Hill into Welling. ;D

d.

Yup, that is a fun descent.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 23 June, 2011, 08:49:05 pm
It's even more fun not doing it on fixed... Not sure I should admit to this on a public forum but my computer says I maxed out a shade under 70km/h.

Wheeeeeeeee!

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 23 June, 2011, 08:55:24 pm
I hit 46mph down there one time. And was able to freewheel to a stop. Glorious.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 23 June, 2011, 08:55:35 pm
Quote from: Ham on 23 June, 2011, 08:41:34 am
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-B-RmeI9jy58/TgLs9whStkI/AAAAAAAAdQQ/oGkoPSW73Ik/s640/Photo0145.jpg)

Temptation, temptation.......

At 07:15 this morning I found this bunch just heading off on a London-Paris, and very narrowly escaped having a mid-life crisis moment. It was only a few miles later I realised that I didn't have a passport with me.

Hah! I saw them as they whizzed through Horley. Motorbike escort, Mavic car, the works.  and if I'd known what sort of day I was in for at work I would have turned right at the Kings Head and joined them.

Got lucky in the traffic light lottery today and got in in 33 minutes dead.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 23 June, 2011, 09:06:21 pm
Pb in the morning & licked by a friendly sheep dog on the way home that I had to stop for, he was lovely old fuss pot  :)

I'm gonna start taking my camera with me for the ride home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 23 June, 2011, 11:11:08 pm
Windy ++ on the tops...
Overtaken for the 2nd time this year by another cyclist.
2 motons assumed I ceased to exist the minute their front bumper cleared my front wheel. Fortunately I was in fine voice to cause them to suddenly remember.
Plastic bag got caught in the rear derailleur on the way home - cue 15 minutes of cursing and fiddling to unravel it.
Windy++ on the tops... Average speed down to 24kph as a result.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 23 June, 2011, 11:17:42 pm
OOoh good commute home tonight, a lovely 55 minute ride for 11miles. Am still loving the smell of the river Thames along the Chelsea Embankment. It makes me miss the Gower a lot.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 24 June, 2011, 12:08:42 am
Wind? What's all the moaning?
Just crack it down to the middle ring and carry on.
So, the commute takes a little longer.  You get to spend more time on your bike!
What's not to like?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 24 June, 2011, 03:18:23 am
Wind into Bromley? No wind on my bike mate, it felt like tailwind both ways.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 24 June, 2011, 08:13:39 am
Early commute again this morning.  Butterfly riding with me.  But she was on her sootbike, and I was on a loaded tourer. :-\

But it was fun, and reasonably swift.  Looking forward to the weekend...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 24 June, 2011, 08:33:35 am
Only my second full house of the year (oh the shame).

But at 2 this afternoon I head down to the 'van in Deepest Sussex, aiming to join the FNRttC route at the top of Reigate Hill.

A proper commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 24 June, 2011, 08:34:33 am
Quote from: Basil on 24 June, 2011, 12:08:42 am
Wind? What's all the moaning?
Just crack it down to the middle ring and carry on.
So, the commute takes a little longer.  You get to spend more time on your bike!
What's not to like?
What's not to like? Errmm, the scolding you get from your other (less committed to the one true way) half for falling asleep on the sofa at half past 7 in the evening.  You know the one; it generally starts with, "Stop complaining you're tired. It's your own fault, you're pushing yourself too hard on the bike..." and generally ends with a sentiment along the lines of, "...and you think more of that bike than me."  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 24 June, 2011, 09:39:28 am
Left work yesterday afternoon in blazing sunshine. 5 minutes up the road and I'm in drowned rat mode (do drowned rats smile from ear to ear?). 5 minutes further up the road it is blazing sunshine again :D

On the ride in this morning I stopped to post a letter. As I did a Ridley soot bike passed with a rider wearing a white Shutt jersey. I caught up with him a few minutes later and we had a nice chat for 10 minutes or so (including most of the ascent of Quarry Wood Lane). Nice bloke, just moved to the area from Australia. Training for a RNLI London to Paris next month I think. Just getting to know the area. I suggested he try out our local weekend riding group. I was also wearing my yacf top so he may have noticed the url.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 24 June, 2011, 09:50:48 am
Quote from: fuzzy on 24 June, 2011, 09:39:28 am
I suggested he try out our local weekend riding group. I was also wearing my yacf top so he may have noticed the url.

 ??? could you tell me more about this? It might be a suitable localish ride for me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 24 June, 2011, 10:23:45 am
Quote from: matthew on 24 June, 2011, 09:50:48 am
Quote from: fuzzy on 24 June, 2011, 09:39:28 am
I suggested he try out our local weekend riding group. I was also wearing my yacf top so he may have noticed the url.

 ??? could you tell me more about this? It might be a suitable localish ride for me.

Marlow Riders (http://riders.marlowstriders.co.uk/mrdb/)

Rides most Saturday and Sunday mornings, 8:00- 8:30 start times at Marlow Sports Club, Pound Lane, Marlow.

PM me for more Matt.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 24 June, 2011, 10:58:02 am
Quote from: Wendy on 24 June, 2011, 03:18:23 am
Wind into Bromley? No wind on my bike mate, it felt like tailwind both ways.

Pffft. You want to try riding a proper bike.  ;)

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 24 June, 2011, 11:40:11 am
There's a tricky right turn up a sharp hill on the way home. Oncoming traffic was queueing so a chap slowed amd pointed imperiously sideways to let me through. I raised my chin and said "Cheers mate" and turned, didn't really want to wave as you need both hands on the bars. As I began the climb the driver drew forward behind me and shouted "Don't say thanks then!".

Nearly doubled back to tell him I said thanks, actually. Bumface.


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sigod on 24 June, 2011, 04:25:13 pm
Those kind of miscommunications can really take the wind out of your sails. Sorry to hear that spindrift.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 24 June, 2011, 10:22:06 pm
Came across maybe a hundred + cyclists on old street(7:30pm ish) going towards old street station.......good you may think  :hand: this was not a FNRttC with real cyclists, this was a bunch of F**Kwits blocking the roads, pissing all the other road users and RLJ ing on mass, "keep going" as the lights turned red I heard  >:(
If anyone from the YACF was on this 'ride' please explain why you just made us real cyclists look like C***S
And why you where supporting this ride in the first place :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 24 June, 2011, 11:11:23 pm
Couple of scares with the traffic this morning, but coming back I had quite a few folks overtaking well, waiting then over to the other side, and my thank you wave got a few acknowledgements. Finding the mirror indespensible on the commute. Very nice ride home, slight h.wind and hammered the rohloff as fast as I could home. When I got home my youngest wanted to out a wee ride, so ended up grabbing a sandwich on the bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 25 June, 2011, 07:55:50 am
Thought I'd miss the rain.  Wrong.  WET ride home last evening.  Decided to ditch Zone 2 and go for it.  Got my HR up to 98% of max on the final hill  ;D ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 25 June, 2011, 11:39:35 am
Part way home, a wasp decided to kamikaze and embed itself in my chest. Cue swearing, hopping around and waving my nipple at the motorists on the A64.

I now look like I have a third nipple.  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 25 June, 2011, 11:44:42 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 25 June, 2011, 11:39:35 am
Part way home, a wasp decided to kamikaze and embed itself in my chest. Cue swearing, hopping around and waving my nipple at the motorists on the A64.

I now look like I have a third nipple.  :-[

Welcome to the forum Mr Scaramanga  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 25 June, 2011, 06:16:17 pm
Bit of a tit?   ;D  :P

I feel your pain, had some kind of hornet thingy repeatedly nail me down my t-shirt on the motorbike once.  No fun at all, I very nearly crashed whilst whacking myself in the tummy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 25 June, 2011, 11:58:04 pm
Quote from: Andyf on 24 June, 2011, 10:22:06 pm
Came across maybe a hundred + cyclists on old street(7:30pm ish) going towards old street station.......good you may think  :hand: this was not a FNRttC with real cyclists, this was a bunch of F**Kwits blocking the roads, pissing all the other road users and RLJ ing on mass, "keep going" as the lights turned red I heard  >:(
If anyone from the YACF was on this 'ride' please explain why you just made us real cyclists look like C***S
And why you where supporting this ride in the first place :demon:

At a guess, Critical Mass (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Critical_Mass).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 27 June, 2011, 08:03:53 am
First inbound ride this year without leg warmers,  arm warmers and full finger gloves.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 27 June, 2011, 09:23:56 am
Quote from: TheLurker on 27 June, 2011, 08:03:53 am
First inbound ride this year without leg warmers,  arm warmers and full finger gloves.

? but you live near Swindon, not north of the arctic circle

I'd have ridden in this morning wearing a mankini but mine is in the wash so I made do with SS jersey and shorts, a bit sweaty and 'orrible it was  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 27 June, 2011, 10:27:14 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 27 June, 2011, 09:23:56 am
Quote from: TheLurker on 27 June, 2011, 08:03:53 am
First inbound ride this year without leg warmers,  arm warmers and full finger gloves.

? but you live near Swindon, not north of the arctic circle

I'd have ridden in this morning wearing a mankini but mine is in the wash so I made do with SS jersey and shorts, a bit sweaty and 'orrible it was  ;D
I know, but I'm generally on the road at about 6,  longish bits of the route are in deep shade at that time of day, I can often count on mist for the first mile or so, the route is almost totally extra urban so it can be noticeably colder* even just half a mile from the front door and last, but probably not least, I'm markedly deficient in the subcutaneous insulation department and so feel the cold.

*I drove to work a few weeks back (beginning of May IIRC).  On the drive the thermometer in the car registered 9C. By the time I'd driven a mile it was reading 5C.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 27 June, 2011, 11:09:24 am
GAH.

If you can't see an object 2.5m by 1.75m by 0.75m, in retching pink, wiffa FRO-sized pennant, as you approach the Give Way then GET YER FRIKKIN HEAD OUTTA YER ARSE!!!

...and breathe ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 27 June, 2011, 04:35:40 pm
I've just been told that the nanny is stating until 8pm so i can take the scenic route home  ;D

Ah - but I live in South London. There isn't a scenic route home  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 27 June, 2011, 05:55:47 pm
Road the Etape as I was due heavy rain on the way home.  It didn't.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 27 June, 2011, 06:37:20 pm
It was very hot and sweaty.

Both ways

That is all
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Titan yer Tummy on 27 June, 2011, 07:52:21 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 27 June, 2011, 04:35:40 pm
Ah - but I live in South London. There isn't a scenic route home  :(

I too live in S London and I have to strongly disagree with you. The Elephant & Castle shopping Centre and the gas works at Bell Green are the lake district of the home counties IMHO ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 27 June, 2011, 08:06:06 pm
Quote from: Titan yer Tummy on 27 June, 2011, 07:52:21 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 27 June, 2011, 04:35:40 pm
Ah - but I live in South London. There isn't a scenic route home  :(

I too live in S London and I have to strongly disagree with you. The Elephant & Castle shopping Centre and the gas works at Bell Green are the lake district of the home counties IMHO ::-)

Plenty of scenic bits in Saarth Lunduhn. Tonight I took a detour. Instead of heading east along the Chelsea Embankment I headed over the bridge and on towards Clapham where there was a nice little incline. After some lads in a car shouted and tried to open their door to throw me off  :o I then headed towards the A205 and  turned right into Streatham Hill. I then turned left onto Streatham Common and a lovely ascent towards Crystal Palace. The awards are reaped when you are literally at the precipice of the Lewisham borough and a lovely long slide down Sydenham Hill (the views are wonderful up there). I then turned into Bell Green and it was Route 21 of the Waterlink Way all the way home. Lush ride home  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 27 June, 2011, 08:17:30 pm
Stopped to phone 999 between Bracknell and Ascot, I had been passed at ~30-35 mph by a silver fiesta with a flat front left tyre. He showed no signs of stopping and had been unconfortably close.

Followed the tyre debris along Ascot high Street to Sunninghill where it became score marks. Then followed the score marks to where he turned right (B383) which happened to be the turning I needed. Called in again to update police on his route and proceeded home.


Only I passed him in a lay-by with a police car behind him  :thumbsup: , so I had a quick word with the officers to say I had been following ~ 3miles of his trail.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ianrauk on 27 June, 2011, 09:18:08 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 27 June, 2011, 08:06:06 pm


Plenty of scenic bits in Saarth Lunduhn. Tonight I took a detour. Instead of heading east along the Chelsea Embankment I headed over the bridge and on towards Clapham where there was a nice little incline. After some lads in a car shouted and tried to open their door to throw me off  :o I then headed towards the A205 and  turned right into Streatham Hill. I then turned left onto Streatham Common and a lovely ascent towards Crystal Palace. The awards are reaped when you are literally at the precipice of the Lewisham borough and a lovely long slide down Sydenham Hill (the views are wonderful up there). I then turned into Bell Green and it was Route 21 of the Waterlink Way all the way home. Lush ride home  :thumbsup:

I saw you tonight. Cycling past Lewisham College. I was standing by the road taking a (rather irate) phone call. A lot of cyclist heading our way this evening. more then I have seen in an age.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 27 June, 2011, 09:24:43 pm
Quote from: ianrauk on 27 June, 2011, 09:18:08 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 27 June, 2011, 08:06:06 pm
Quote from: Titan yer Tummy on 27 June, 2011, 07:52:21 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 27 June, 2011, 04:35:40 pm
Ah - but I live in South London. There isn't a scenic route home  :(

I too live in S London and I have to strongly disagree with you. The Elephant & Castle shopping Centre and the gas works at Bell Green are the lake district of the home counties IMHO ::-)

Plenty of scenic bits in Saarth Lunduhn. Tonight I took a detour. Instead of heading east along the Chelsea Embankment I headed over the bridge and on towards Clapham where there was a nice little incline. After some lads in a car shouted and tried to open their door to throw me off  :o I then headed towards the A205 and  turned right into Streatham Hill. I then turned left onto Streatham Common and a lovely ascent towards Crystal Palace. The awards are reaped when you are literally at the precipice of the Lewisham borough and a lovely long slide down Sydenham Hill (the views are wonderful up there). I then turned into Bell Green and it was Route 21 of the Waterlink Way all the way home. Lush ride home  :thumbsup:

I saw you tonight. Cycling past Lewisham College. I was standing by the road taking a (rather irate) phone call. A lot of cyclist heading our way this evening. more then I have seen in an age.

Twas not me mate! I did not even get as far as Lewisham College  :-* I saw lots of serious male cyclists around the hills of Sydenham though, I looked well out of place  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ianrauk on 27 June, 2011, 09:34:32 pm
blimey, could have sworn it was you. You have a doppledanger.. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 27 June, 2011, 09:41:13 pm
Quote from: ianrauk on 27 June, 2011, 09:34:32 pm
blimey, could have sworn it was you. You have a doppledganger.. :thumbsup:

I have many of them, didn't I tell you...I am a Cylon  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Speshact on 27 June, 2011, 09:59:01 pm
I've done scenic south London the past couple of days:
Kennington People on Bikes: Bike the Borough last Sunday (http://kenningtonpob.blogspot.com/2011/06/bike-borough-last-sunday.html)
Kennington People on Bikes: Eulogies for Brian Haw (http://kenningtonpob.blogspot.com/2011/06/eulogies-for-brian-haw.html)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 28 June, 2011, 03:27:34 pm
It looks like the ride home is going to be interesting today.

The rain seems to have abated but there's oodles of standing water and the traffic is heavy already. 

I can forsee some of us having to take primary rather more than usual for river avoidance. Cue predictable responses from our motorised friends.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 28 June, 2011, 05:34:14 pm
44kph maximum speed hurtling up Milton Road trying to race the cars.  They won, but only just.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 28 June, 2011, 05:46:50 pm
Beige chinos and a blue cotton shirt take on a clingy transparency in a downpour. Felt like Keira Knightly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Domestique on 28 June, 2011, 05:58:43 pm
I got wet in my sandals  8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 28 June, 2011, 07:27:47 pm
Legs felt great and HR was well within limits.
Top ride both ways.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 28 June, 2011, 09:45:34 pm
New PB on the way 12.7miles, 39.12mins, 19.4mph avg.  Nearly hit a car on the way back going round a corner & saw a pretty blonde lady squatting for a pee at the side of the road  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 28 June, 2011, 09:48:11 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 28 June, 2011, 05:46:50 pm
Beige chinos and a blue cotton shirt take on a clingy transparency in a downpour. Felt like Keira Knightly.

I often feel like Keira Knightly, but she's never in when I call.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 28 June, 2011, 10:11:44 pm
Waited until after the rain and everything felt really fresh.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 28 June, 2011, 10:13:56 pm
Quote from: perpetual dan on 28 June, 2011, 10:11:44 pm
Waited until after the rain and everything felt really fresh.


I love that smell after the rain! The earth opens up and smells peaty and lush.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 29 June, 2011, 09:28:59 am
Sheesh !  In short order, two punishment passes, two slapped wing mirrors, several attempts at knocking me off the bike and two offers of beating me up, then a puncture.

I'm glad it's not like that for the other 364 days of the year.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 29 June, 2011, 09:31:03 am
No commute yesterday, as I was still ill :(

But I did want to check I was better enough to come to work today, so I rode up to meet Butterfly.  It wasn't a very fast ride, nor an especially long one, but, as I'd been lying in bed feeling dreadful, listening to the thunderstorm, and knowing that I'd ridden a total of about 650metres to the GPs and back, it was good to get the wheels turning properly.

This morning, it was back to normal.  Except it wasn't.  There was such a stack of standing motor traffic almost everywhere.  Three blue light vehicles before leaving town, then a further five along the way.  I normally see at least one emergency vehicle on every commuting ride, but eight was unusual.  I suspect there was a problem on another road somewhere (A23?) and we were getting people diverting around it.  This also meant a lot more traffic coming the other way, making filtering harder, and loads of cars emerging from/turning into side roads.  The motorists got themselves into right tangles.

But it was reasonably swift for us nonetheless.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 29 June, 2011, 10:48:05 am
Rode back yesterday up Staple Hill.  It's 7km of ascent, 260 metres

Lots of other bikes about in Taunton today
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 29 June, 2011, 05:44:46 pm
In the morning I went from the top to bottom of Holland Park Avenue with every light on green. And let out a bit of a whoop at the end.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smurphboy on 29 June, 2011, 06:11:21 pm
Managed to get clipped by a van as I filtered on the right up to some lights. He swerved out to avoid a line of Lycra clad LeJoG types and hit bars with his door mirror. I fell, was doing under 10mph.

Minor cuts and bruises and a v sore hand. Turns out I've got a spiral fracture of my 3rd metacarpal in my right hand. Ouch!

Got gert big cast on hand until I can see the specialist tomorrow am. Suspect it is six weeks off the bike unless I can figure out how you pull two brakes with one hand.

Bike is fine other than front wheel needing trueing.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 29 June, 2011, 06:55:19 pm
My new ceramic balls are so smooth.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 29 June, 2011, 07:26:24 pm
Quote from: smurphboy on 29 June, 2011, 06:11:21 pm
Managed to get clipped by a van as I filtered on the right up to some lights. He swerved out to avoid a line of Lycra clad LeJoG types and hit bars with his door mirror. I fell, was doing under 10mph.

Minor cuts and bruises and a v sore hand. Turns out I've got a spiral fracture of my 3rd metacarpal in my right hand. Ouch!

Got gert big cast on hand until I can see the specialist tomorrow am. Suspect it is six weeks off the bike unless I can figure out how you pull two brakes with one hand.


OUCHY! GWS!

I don't think you'll be plastered for very long. Did you get driver's details?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 29 June, 2011, 07:36:05 pm
Had a lovely ride, via Clapham Junction.  Till I got close to home, when I got almost sideswiped by a van who Had To Pass The Cyclist.  He held me up from thereon until he took the ratrun turn, where I said something incautious, which I hadn't expected him to hear.  Screech of brakes, skidding tyres, and drivign striaght at me.  I hopped onto the kerb, and rode up some random drive.  He left.

He's still a twat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smurphboy on 29 June, 2011, 08:21:43 pm
Yes I did.

I'm hoping I just get a splint. And maybe a new turbo trainer...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 29 June, 2011, 08:24:48 pm
Good.  Sorry to hear of your injuries.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gerwinium on 29 June, 2011, 08:28:29 pm
Took the Long Route Home via Tower bridge over the Blue Curacao Highway. I encountered one of my collegues on the way on a scarily heavy-geared fixie and found out how annoying it is to ride with someone on the Cable Street part. I probably got in the way of some of the faster cyclists in the process.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 29 June, 2011, 08:30:25 pm
Quote from: smurphboy on 29 June, 2011, 08:21:43 pm
Yes I did.

I'm hoping I just get a splint. And maybe a new turbo trainer...

Oh, this sucks :(
GWS smurphy!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dinamo on 29 June, 2011, 08:53:23 pm
Quote from: Feline on 29 June, 2011, 08:30:25 pm
Quote from: smurphboy on 29 June, 2011, 08:21:43 pm
Yes I did.

I'm hoping I just get a splint. And maybe a new turbo trainer...

Oh, this sucks :(
GWS smurphy!

Just in time for the Tour  ;D
Set up your new turbo trainer in front of telly for inspiration !

Whereabouts was your accident sorry, incident  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smurphboy on 29 June, 2011, 09:03:19 pm
Quote from: Dinamo on 29 June, 2011, 08:53:23 pm
Quote from: Feline on 29 June, 2011, 08:30:25 pm
Quote from: smurphboy on 29 June, 2011, 08:21:43 pm
Yes I did.

I'm hoping I just get a splint. And maybe a new turbo trainer...

Oh, this sucks :(
GWS smurphy!

Just in time for the Tour  ;D
Set up your new turbo trainer in front of telly for inspiration !

Whereabouts was your accident sorry, incident  :-\

Indeed! Thanks for all the kind words. Already getting itchy about no bike for a few weeks.

A38, just here (http://maps.google.co.uk/?ll=51.496387,-2.58124&spn=0.001927,0.004823&t=h&z=18&layer=c&cbll=51.49644,-2.581117&panoid=MWCKZZ7vnBrIJiQL6mop3Q&cbp=12,16.84,,0,21.72)

I should know better. I was filtering to turn right and I know they are never looking in their mirrors up here, I get a few near misses a month. I need to stop riding like I'm 18 / an idiot or change my route... but this part of the A38 is nice and quick.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 29 June, 2011, 09:04:08 pm
Quote from: gerwinium on 29 June, 2011, 08:28:29 pm
Took the Long Route Home via Tower bridge over the Blue Curacao Highway. I encountered one of my collegues on the way on a scarily heavy-geared fixie and found out how annoying it is to ride with someone on the Cable Street part. I probably got in the way of some of the faster cyclists in the process.

Good!  If they want to go fast they should either be on the A13 or The Highway (see rants passim).
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 29 June, 2011, 09:18:55 pm
Quote from: gerwinium on 29 June, 2011, 08:28:29 pm
Blue Curacao Highway.

I like that I do.  Can I borrow it?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gerwinium on 29 June, 2011, 09:25:15 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 29 June, 2011, 09:18:55 pm
Quote from: gerwinium on 29 June, 2011, 08:28:29 pm
Blue Curacao Highway.

I like that I do.  Can I borrow it?
I don't see a TM, so go for it :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 29 June, 2011, 11:41:08 pm
On route home this evening I helped a Dutch coluple of slightly advanced years (Classic as opposed to Vintage) who were on a cycle touring holiday and wanted directions to Maidenhead. I ponted them on their way and continued my journey. About 5 minutes on I spied a map laying in the middle of the road. I picked it up and saw it was a tourist map of the Thames Valley. Putting two and two together, I turned round and gave chase but couldn't find the couple on the route I gave them. I checked a few side roads and was about to give up when I saw them cycling towards me. It was their map :thumbsup:

They had seen a little cycle route sign saying Maidenhead 2 miles but couldn't use the farcility as the barrier/ gate near the start was too restrictive to get their luggage laden Dutch Bikes through. Their plan for the day started in Oxford and they were going to ride to London. They had followed Thames side paths to Marlow but decided the route was too rough. They had opted to ride to Maidenhead and put themselves and their bikes on the train for the last leg of the days journey.

I bid them farewell and finished my ride home. An extra 22 minutes and 5 1/2 miles. All miles are good miles :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 30 June, 2011, 07:28:02 am
Nice one Fuzzy, what a gent you are!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 30 June, 2011, 08:49:15 am
Thanks Wendy :)

This mornings ride in was completely uneventful and joyous :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: darkpoint on 30 June, 2011, 09:02:37 am
Nice ride noticeably fewer cars about.

Stopped at some lights on the north side of Clapham Common,  as the small group of cyclists pull away,  one chap fail to proceed,  as his rear wheel has fallen off.

So I stop to help put it back on again,  and send him on his way..
Not a mechanical that I have had to deal with before.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 30 June, 2011, 09:04:51 am
I often feel as if my wheel has come off. 3p.m. is a good time for that.

But it was the best of mornings today, wasn't it?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 30 June, 2011, 09:49:42 am
Distinct lack of traffic in London SW today as well, presumably as a result of school closures. Beautiful morning, 100% absence of any motorised tomfoolery, a couple of very considerate WVs, decent passing distances all round. Life is good.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 30 June, 2011, 09:54:18 am
Lack of traffic round the school hotspots, but there still contrived to be significant queues in other places.  Pleasant ride, and fast.  Lots of cyclists. :D

Absolutely insane driving at E&C. >:(

But it didn't spoil the day.

I have to confess that a wheel falling off is a new one on me, darkpoint.  Well done for not laughing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 30 June, 2011, 10:20:41 am
Quote from: darkpoint on 30 June, 2011, 09:02:37 am
Nice ride noticeably fewer cars about.

Stopped at some lights on the north side of Clapham Common,  as the small group of cyclists pull away,  one chap fail to proceed,  as his rear wheel has fallen off.

So I stop to help put it back on again,  and send him on his way..
Not a mechanical that I have had to deal with before.

I pray, for their sake Darkpoint, that their rear is the only wheel that falls off for them today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 30 June, 2011, 11:44:05 am
I was hoping the roads would be quieter due to school closures but no. Did see five or six other cyclists though, which is a lot for round here.

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 30 June, 2011, 11:50:25 am
Quote from: SteveC on 30 June, 2011, 11:44:05 am
I was hoping the roads would be quieter due to school closures but no. Did see five or six other cyclists though, which is a lot for round here.

S

There was still huge masses of traffic between Peckham and the Oval on the A202, even more so today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 30 June, 2011, 01:02:48 pm
Quote from: fuzzy on 29 June, 2011, 11:41:08 pm
On route home this evening I helped a Dutch coluple of slightly advanced years (Classic as opposed to Vintage) who were on a cycle touring holiday and wanted directions to Maidenhead. I ponted them on their way and continued my journey. About 5 minutes on I spied a map laying in the middle of the road. I picked it up and saw it was a tourist map of the Thames Valley. Putting two and two together, I turned round and gave chase but couldn't find the couple on the route I gave them. I checked a few side roads and was about to give up when I saw them cycling towards me. It was their map :thumbsup:

They had seen a little cycle route sign saying Maidenhead 2 miles but couldn't use the farcility as the barrier/ gate near the start was too restrictive to get their luggage laden Dutch Bikes through. Their plan for the day started in Oxford and they were going to ride to London. They had followed Thames side paths to Marlow but decided the route was too rough. They had opted to ride to Maidenhead and put themselves and their bikes on the train for the last leg of the days journey.

I bid them farewell and finished my ride home. An extra 22 minutes and 5 1/2 miles. All miles are good miles :thumbsup:


Our very own Walter Mitty methinks.  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 30 June, 2011, 01:22:02 pm
Oh I don't know. Usual commute is just over 6 1/2 miles in around 28 minutes. Last night was 12 miles dead in 55 minutes....... Bugger!

Extra 5 1/2 miles in 27 minutes ::-)

 :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 30 June, 2011, 03:29:02 pm
Quote from: fuzzy on 30 June, 2011, 01:22:02 pm
Oh I don't know. Usual commute is just over 6 1/2 miles in around 28 minutes. Last night was 12 miles dead in 55 minutes....... Bugger!

Extra 5 1/2 miles in 27 minutes ::-)

 :-[
Miles covered with the express purpose of helping a stranger count double.  Furrinners even more.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gerwinium on 30 June, 2011, 07:36:04 pm
I managed to slip on the steps in the Greenwich foot tunnel and sprain my ankle. It was lovely that just about everyone asked whether I was OK while I sat down for 5 minutes to recover though (hopefully not just because I was in their way). Half of them offered to carry my bike. If any of those were you, thanks! I managed to limp into work, and an ice pack and some pain killers later mean that it's more or less stopped hurting unless i walk on it. The nurse said no exercise this weekend though :(.

The bike was not damaged (I know these things are important to mention).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 30 June, 2011, 07:38:23 pm
Poor gerwinium. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 30 June, 2011, 11:42:46 pm
Quote from: gerwinium on 30 June, 2011, 07:36:04 pm
I managed to slip on the steps in the Greenwich foot tunnel and sprain my ankle....
Oof! Commiserations from one who has sustained similar injury recently.

Quote from: gerwinium on 30 June, 2011, 07:36:04 pm
.... an ice pack .....
Excellent! (are you reading this, NSTN?  ;) :-*)

Quote from: gerwinium on 30 June, 2011, 07:36:04 pm
The nurse said no exercise this weekend though :(.
Nurse Jurek reckons if any swelling has subsided, and its not causing you pain while you're clipped in, then ankling your ankle through one plane (you're unlikely to exacerbate the sprain whilst clipped in) is unlikely to do it too much harm - and I think it may help to restore strength to your damaged ankle.
All the usual caveats apply - I am in no way, shape or form qualified to offer such advice.
EDIT: Clipping out is the most painful bit....

Following my unscheduled flying lesson, it was easier/ less painful / less vulnerable to pedal than it was to walk.

Oh, and another thing, I suspect you are about to find out exactly how c*ck-uneven most of our pavements are.

I used the foot tunnel twice this evening - the first time 'against the flow' at around 18:00.
Oh, how everyone laughed. ::-)
It was significantly less hassle (deserted) at 23:00.

Heal swiftly.


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 30 June, 2011, 11:59:24 pm
Cycling with toe clips was easier than walking when I sprained my ankle. I think you could cycle.
GWS!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gerwinium on 01 July, 2011, 07:06:57 am
Thanks all for the commiserations/advice :). It's feeling a lot better this morning and the foot's just feeling a bit stiff when walking.

Quote from: Jurek on 30 June, 2011, 11:42:46 pm
Quote from: gerwinium on 30 June, 2011, 07:36:04 pm
.... an ice pack .....
Excellent! (are you reading this, NSTN?  ;) :-*)
Nurse said it causes the blood vessels to contract, hence reduce the swelling.

Quote from: Jurek on 30 June, 2011, 11:42:46 pm
Nurse Jurek reckons if any swelling has subsided, and its not causing you pain while you're clipped in, then ankling your ankle through one plane (you're unlikely to exacerbate the sprain whilst clipped in) is unlikely to do it too much harm - and I think it may help to restore strength to your damaged ankle.
All the usual caveats apply - I am in no way, shape or form qualified to offer such advice.
EDIT: Clipping out is the most painful bit....
I'll have to get my bike home somehow, so I might give it a go tonight. Lightest gear, I reckon.

Quote from: Jurek on 30 June, 2011, 11:42:46 pm
Oh, and another thing, I suspect you are about to find out exactly how c*ck-uneven most of our pavements are.
Yep, and unreliable public transport :(. Severe delays on the DLR according to the radio.

Quote from: Jurek on 30 June, 2011, 11:42:46 pm
I used the foot tunnel twice this evening - the first time 'against the flow' at around 18:00.
Oh, how everyone laughed. ::-)
It was significantly less hassle (deserted) at 23:00.
I thought they closed it at 9PM these days? I'm surprised it's taking this long. They could have built a new one in the time they've taken I'm sure.

Cheers, Peter
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 July, 2011, 08:09:26 am
Quote from: Jurek on 30 June, 2011, 11:42:46 pm
Nurse Jurek...

Do you have a uniform?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 01 July, 2011, 10:00:43 am
Quote from: gerwinium on 01 July, 2011, 07:06:57 am
I thought they closed it at 9PM these days? I'm surprised it's taking this long. They could have built a new one in the time they've taken I'm sure.

So say all the notices - But I checked with The Man Who Knows (the bloke with the newspaper stall on the north side) and he seemed to think they weren't working overnight (ie: at all) at the moment.

Which probably explains your second and third sentences.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 01 July, 2011, 10:02:49 am
Quote from: clarion on 01 July, 2011, 08:09:26 am
Do you have a uniform?

*Rummages in wardrobe*

Hmmm.... I used to but I think I lent it to some bloke called Harry, to wear to a party.

Oh, sorry.

Different uniform.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 July, 2011, 10:07:57 am
*goes for second dose of mind bleach*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 01 July, 2011, 10:19:10 am
 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 01 July, 2011, 12:20:04 pm
No creaking!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 01 July, 2011, 01:00:15 pm
Is it the weather that unleashes the motons inner fuckwit?

I normally get 2 or 3 blind bend overtakes a week. This week they have been frequent - practically no-one wait to pass, regardless of the shape of the road ahead. This week there have been three "meet a car coming the other way" overtaking events resulting in much braking, honking of horns, and in one case the rear bumper of the overtaking car coming within 3 or 4 inches of my feet (out front 'cos a 'bent)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 01 July, 2011, 01:20:38 pm
Quote from: tonycollinet on 01 July, 2011, 01:00:15 pm
Is it the weather that unleashes the motons inner fuckwit?
Yup.  There's a definite correlation between good weather and poor driving.  Was discussing this very thing with MrsLurker the other day and we came up with the following hypotheses:

The weather's good so...
... people are thoroughly pissed off at having to go to work so their driving suffers because they're annoyed.
... people are rushing to get to home to enjoy it.
... people have a pint or a glass when otherwise they might not and although not legally drunk in charge are driving impaired.
... people who don't usually drive are tempted to take the old jalopy for a spin doncherknow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sigod on 01 July, 2011, 04:04:36 pm
Seconded but it doesn't seem to end with cars and pedestrians. I was hit by a teenager on a bike who was riding the pavement last week on the other side of Clapham Common (he collided with me at right angles when I turned left into the road he was crossing from pavement to pavement at full speed). The collision was so forceful, it turned me 180 degrees and I landed in a heap, facing the other direction.

The git then rode away when he saw what he had done. I chased after him and got his details. It turned out they were false. Thank you Summer Teenage Git on your dayglow orange Halfords Special.  :demon:

The most amazing thing was my new Tri-cross survived the collision in almost perfect working order. All I had to do was replace the back mudguard and re-seat the left hand brake lever which had been bent at 45 degrees. What a brilliantly tough bit of engineering! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gerwinium on 01 July, 2011, 07:37:09 pm
Successfully rode home. Unclipping was a bit painful, but survivable, the actual cycling was easier than walking (as hellymedic thought it might be). Lovely weather, only one *rs*hole who tried to ride into me. I'm not sure why there are no box junctions on the cycle 'superhighways'. It seems to be par for the course for cars to block the road during the 20 seconds that the light is green for bicycles.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 02 July, 2011, 10:40:59 am
Hope you are feeling better soon Gerwinium  :-*

My commute into work today was blissful. Even the A202 seemed civilized. The Thames was like a millpond, calm and serene. Saturday commutes are a joy, especially when the weather is sunny and there is still a touch of coolness in the air.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 03 July, 2011, 12:12:18 pm
Nice commute in yesterday evening and home this morning, 43 miles. I was impressed that using panniers didn't seem to slow me up all that much. There was a big crash right behind me on the way home at an infamous junction in Cheddar. I hope the car that pulled out and caused it wasn't looking at my arse at the time!


      
      Commute Axbridge-Bristol by fujifeline at Garmin Connect - Details   (http://connect.garmin.com/activity/96450012)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dinamo on 03 July, 2011, 12:29:36 pm
Has it caused many accidents ?   :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 03 July, 2011, 12:49:37 pm
Quote from: Dinamo on 03 July, 2011, 12:29:36 pm
Has it caused many accidents ?   :D

Judge for yourself:

(http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6022/5869544131_fa62701566_b.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/27424426@N00/5869544131/)
Untitled (http://www.flickr.com/photos/27424426@N00/5869544131/) by SimonP2006 (http://www.flickr.com/people/27424426@N00/), on Flickr

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 03 July, 2011, 07:19:09 pm
*speechless*

WOW!!!   ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 04 July, 2011, 09:10:21 am
I don't have Feline's ride up the Cheddar Gorge to get me woken up first thing so I made do with being slightly pushed for time to get to the dentist and then being faster than the cars on Milton Road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 July, 2011, 09:26:27 am
Had to drop a van off early, so only rode across Chelsea Bridge from Battersea, along Embankment, and back across Lambeth Bridge to E&C.

Nice ride, but I could have done with a bit more.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 04 July, 2011, 09:58:01 am
Pottering home on Friday got overtaken by a plumber's van.  Blazoned on the back in big red letters... Saunier Duval
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 04 July, 2011, 10:14:33 am
The (London) roads seemed incredibly quiet this monring. Where was everybody?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 04 July, 2011, 11:52:23 am
Rode home from work fully laden with panniers with all my stuff from the weekend in them. It made riding up the 'Wrangle' onto the Mendips a bit interesting, but I was only about 10 minutes slower than normal. I didn't cause any accidents this morning :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 04 July, 2011, 02:18:36 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 04 July, 2011, 10:14:33 am
The (London) roads seemed incredibly quiet this monring. Where was everybody?

I know! It was rammed ridiculously at New Cross but by Peckham it was extremely quiet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 04 July, 2011, 02:33:18 pm
As far as I know my arse didn't cause any accidents today

Taking it easy.  Loverly morning
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 04 July, 2011, 06:50:12 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 04 July, 2011, 10:14:33 am
The (London) roads seemed incredibly quiet this monring. Where was everybody?
Quiet out here in the sticks as well.

Over took one other cyclist.  Why was he freewheeling on a gentle UP incline?  Nearly ran into the back of him as he slowed down!
(My fault and no actual contact--in fact I don't think he realised I was there until I passed him)

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 July, 2011, 07:55:54 pm
I left work earlier than usual (having started early), and retraced my route back to Lambeth Bridge and along Embankment.  Instead of taking Chelsea Bridge, though (I ddin't fancy riding up Cedars Road on fixed today), I went upstream and over Wandsworth Bridge.  Sampled a ridiculous section of the CS8, which takes a sharp right off the inside lane of a gyratory into a narrow contraflow cycle lane on the wrong side of a road, which then has to merge with the rest of the road... ::-)

This morning, I saw a sign warning of roadworks for gas on the road to Mitcham, so I thought I'd see what beddington Road looks like these days.

Wow!  That's traffic.  Standing all the way to Asda, and the road a bit narrow to filter safely with traffic coming the other way. 

Uphill start at the T junction at the end was a challenge, but I did it, and then passed a whole load more cars before spurring off through the back of Wallington.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Titan yer Tummy on 04 July, 2011, 08:21:36 pm
Quote from: simonp on 03 July, 2011, 12:49:37 pm
Quote from: Dinamo on 03 July, 2011, 12:29:36 pm
Has it caused many accidents ?   :D

Judge for yourself



Dear Feline,

I am afraid I have to inform you that you are almost certainly the cause of a large number of accidents ;D

TyT
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wowbagger on 04 July, 2011, 08:24:58 pm
Quote from: simonp on 04 July, 2011, 09:10:21 am
I don't have Feline's ride up the Cheddar Gorge to get me woken up first thing so I made do with being slightly pushed for time to get to the dentist and then being faster than the cars on Milton Road.

Is that some sort of lewd imagery? :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 04 July, 2011, 08:32:49 pm
Quote from: Wowbagger on 04 July, 2011, 08:24:58 pm
Quote from: simonp on 04 July, 2011, 09:10:21 am
I don't have Feline's ride up the Cheddar Gorge to get me woken up first thing so I made do with being slightly pushed for time to get to the dentist and then being faster than the cars on Milton Road.

Is that some sort of lewd imagery? :o

Perhaps, on your part Wowbagger.

You'll have to forgive SimonP. He was like this on the 200 on Saturday. He struggles to talk for more than 5 minutes without mentioning Feline.
Poor fellow. Must be in love or something.

Oh, how very sweet. :sick: ::-)










 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Karla on 04 July, 2011, 08:45:31 pm
Quote from: teethgrinder on 04 July, 2011, 08:32:49 pm
You'll have to forgive SimonP. He was like this on the 200 on Saturday. He struggles to talk for more than 5 minutes without mentioning Feline.
Poor fellow. Must be in love or something.

Oh, how very sweet. :sick: ::-)

TG, I'd almost say you were jealous!  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 04 July, 2011, 08:53:20 pm
Quote from: Mr Bunbury on 04 July, 2011, 08:45:31 pm
Quote from: teethgrinder on 04 July, 2011, 08:32:49 pm
You'll have to forgive SimonP. He was like this on the 200 on Saturday. He struggles to talk for more than 5 minutes without mentioning Feline.
Poor fellow. Must be in love or something.

Oh, how very sweet. :sick: ::-)

TG, I'd almost say you were jealous!  ;D


OK. I admit it.
I think that Simon and I were made for each other. The moment I stepped into his home and saw that it was just as messy as mine (well almsot). The fixed wheel bike. The dodgy music collection. We could be so good together!
Feline is a very lucky lady.
I haven't given up hope though.
I'll always hold a candle for you Simon, honey. :-*


Anyway, how are you tonight Bunbers? ;) :-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Karla on 04 July, 2011, 09:22:47 pm
Quote from: teethgrinder on 04 July, 2011, 08:53:20 pm
Quote from: Mr Bunbury on 04 July, 2011, 08:45:31 pm
Quote from: teethgrinder on 04 July, 2011, 08:32:49 pm
You'll have to forgive SimonP. He was like this on the 200 on Saturday. He struggles to talk for more than 5 minutes without mentioning Feline.
Poor fellow. Must be in love or something.

Oh, how very sweet. :sick: ::-)

TG, I'd almost say you were jealous!  ;D

OK. I admit it.
I think that Simon and I were made for each other. The moment I stepped into his home and saw that it was just as messy as mine (well almsot). The fixed wheel bike. The dodgy music collection. We could be so good together!
Feline is a very lucky lady.
I haven't given up hope though.
I'll always hold a candle for you Simon, honey. :-*


Anyway, how are you tonight Bunbers? ;) :-*

Oh Toothykins, you'll always have a place in my heart.  I couldn't stop staring at  your arse on the last part of the Seething in 2010.  On the 24 this year, you cut such a dashing figure with that pannier rack: here was a man who wasn't afraid to step out of line, to plough his own furrow on his racked steel audax bike and not to conform to the becarboned whippets who posted shorter distances than him anyway. 

There are but two problems, dear Toothytootles.  The first is that I am already taken.  How am I to tell my darling girlfriend that I'm leaving her for a smelly cyclist whose arse has already had more than enough abuse meted out to it over countless long sweaty nights in the saddle?  Nonetheless, I feel that this problem may yet be surmountable. 

Alas, dental darling, there is an even greater issue that will yet come between us.  I'd get up my Pompino and pedal down to Milton Keynes right away, except that I have a prior appointment tonight.  I am set to spend the evening alone with a lot of latex, and so cannot fall into your oily embrace.

Yours
The Frustrated Freewheeler
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 05 July, 2011, 08:39:33 am
^^^

(Settles down with beer'n'crisps'n'chunder bukket)

This could be retching ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 05 July, 2011, 08:43:01 am
Quote from: rogerzilla on 03 July, 2011, 02:30:21 pm
...the commuting bike is going to feel as if it has an engine in it tomorrow.

Not 'arf; trolling +25kg 200km is obviously good for you - average up 5Km/h this morning :thumbsup:
Might make double figures on the way home ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 05 July, 2011, 09:24:42 am
Passed a guy on the A64 - that's unusual, I don't normally see any other cyclists on this bit - what was more unusual was that they were riding a recumbent trike (didn't see what make). Vaguely indian-looking, white hair and a beard to dwarf Wow's. We exchanged a cheery 'good morning' amidst the torrent of cars before I went on my way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 05 July, 2011, 09:38:19 am
Didn't this chap do an end to end and appear in Cycle recently ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 05 July, 2011, 09:42:38 am
I dunno, I've never seen him before. Was rolling along at decent pace for a recumbent trike, seemed very easy with the traffic. Had telltale signs of a long-distance cyclist on the trike; home-fettle map holders, that sort of thing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 05 July, 2011, 09:56:03 am
Had a puncture last night, first one on Bontrager Racelite Hardcase tyres.  Had them on the bike since March
Unfortunately, my pump was in the other saddle bag so I had a 30 minute walk to get home
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 05 July, 2011, 11:17:15 am
Interesting commute last night.  At Talbot Green I headed over Llantrisant to Cross Inn where I turned onto the cycle path through the awkward barriers and alongside the upgraded road. The onto the old A473 to Llantwit Fardre.  Why I am I so far off route? I needed to check a detail for a route sheet.  So I turn down hill to The Ship pass it onto the new road's roundabout.  Notice the new roundabout still has one exit for Creigiau and Efail Isaf (The original plan had an exit each) so the finished road layout matched last years route sheet.  I notice a cycle path so I ride along it and find myself back at The Ship. Excellent, a short cut.  I will change route sheet afterall.

I continue on Heol Dowlais and climb through Efail Isaf when I remember why I have not been this way since I went single speed. I do not have the right gear for this hill.  So I huff and puff to the extra steep bit walk 30m and huffed and puffed some more.  Relieved to get to the top I freewheel down from Pentyrch to Gwaelod Y Garth and roll along to home in Radyr.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 05 July, 2011, 12:43:30 pm
Argy bargy with a cabbie today, lovely, start the day well. He did a stupid overtakey brakey, slamming the brakes on at then lights 30 pigging feet in front of me. I swoop round, he does a punishment overtake attempt, I can see the nearside wing in my peripheral vision. I pull away and he takes the right hand lane, he didn't even want my lane, the chuffing cock womble.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 05 July, 2011, 03:20:48 pm
Sometimes stuff happens on your commute that makes you just smile and be happy.  OK, that's most of my commutes, but this one was a nice one from the weekend.  In this example a pleasing exchange between a 320 bus driver and myself:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pVQ5c8Zwi7s (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pVQ5c8Zwi7s)

I give and get friendly waves from most of the drivers, they are great and very considerate.  My commute covers pretty much their entire route bar one or two stops.  I got more waves and smiles after a letter of compliments to their manager and chocolates, and after posting video of some particularly excellent examples of their driving.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 July, 2011, 08:11:09 pm
Why didn't anyone tell me my chain was a bit slack? :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 05 July, 2011, 08:16:27 pm
Le Grand Depart
by
E J Thribb
aged 111 1/2


Sometimes on my commute
I wonder
Where have all the bikes gone?
They were there this morning
Now
They are gone
Departed
Cleared off as if
Someone's farted
I carry on thinking
This
As I put my shoes in the oven
To dry
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 05 July, 2011, 08:33:23 pm
Arrived at work this morning with what felt like bottom bracket failure - the chain-rings were doing funny things and shifting was off... Close inspection revealed that ALL the chain-ring bolts were loose!
Silly me - I noticed a creak last friday and promised myself to look at it on the weekend but forgot.  :facepalm:
Drive-train felt but better on the way home after having re-tightened all the bolts...

Moral: NEVER ignore unexplained creaks and noises!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 05 July, 2011, 08:36:51 pm
I realised after my third uncomfortable roundabout this morning that I was riding like a distracted, half-awake, scaredy-cat plonker.

I was fine coming home.  :thumbsup:

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 July, 2011, 08:43:54 pm
Aware that there are going to be roadworks on my route from next week, I scouted out another route home today.  As I had a bit of extra time, I felt it might be OK to put in some extra miles.

I rode through Mitcham, where there are a lot of idiotic motorists, and narrow, busy roads, and out the other side, part way up Rose Hill.  It was raining and there  was a headwind, and the bike felt like it weighed a ton.  And there's no way I shall be using that as an alternative route.  But at least I got my extra miles in.

Er, no, I didn't.  It was exactly the same distance as I normally ride :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 05 July, 2011, 10:13:17 pm
... it was moist.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 05 July, 2011, 10:17:01 pm
On the way in this morning I made an attempt on the south east face of the Camberwell route. My reasoning being that with an earlier start to normal, there would be less congestion at crevasse 468 (the road is currently 3-way alternate flow after the 468 bus crash). It wasn't too bad and I made good progress to Upper Ground.

On the way home, as conditions were deteriorating, with falling visibility and treacherous scree roads scree under wheel, I decided for the wider bus lanes of Brixton which also offered the safety of travelling with more fellow two wheelers. This plan failed due to route A23 being blocked just before Brixton itself and I was forced to divert to a climb around Herne Hill and then an anticipated traverse of Dulwich. I knew it would be risky in these conditions and despite being extremely tentative, I had a sudden descent at the exit of a mini-roundabout when my front wheel caught a diesel patch. I hit the ground hard and ended up with my feet up on the pavement and my head in the road, brand new shorts now quite second-hand, waterproof torn across the shoulders, front tyre punctured against the curb, bars and left brake lever askew and both wheels out of true and also a little less skin on my right ankle, knee, hip, elbow and shoulder. Many thanks to the cyclist and the Lewis Day driver who waited and checked that I was happy to either get on with making the bike rideable or if necessary walk home. The driver would have offered me a lift if it wasn't for the bike! I'd like to extend other wishes though for the first four drivers who drove round me rather than stop.
I spent twenty minutes or so tweaking the bike back into shape and then continued the journey home. After another couple of miles I was spitting feathers as I found another three roundabouts awash with diesel, although these were from fresh spills and easy to see, but as I got closer to home the general road conditions deteriorated to the extent that at one point if felt like I had a freewheel rather than fixed and I had to keep an eye out for cars that were starting to wash out across stop lines and even corners. The precise reason soon became apparent when I passed the Shell garage on Crystal Palace Parade and was able to trace a three foot wide continuous spill that I then followed for three miles to a cul-de-sac in Bromley. I reported the route and address to Bromley council and the police.

I'm about to get the TCP out and divert my attention from the crunching and the ache that's started in my right shoulder. Shit it. Mind you, I'm booked to see the surgeon that last bolted it together on Thursday. That's .... convenient.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 July, 2011, 10:20:23 pm
Ooh nasty!  Glad you could trace it, though I doubt anyone will do anything.

Most of all, I'm glad you're still with us.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 05 July, 2011, 10:21:40 pm
Sounds like Major Pants, Ben.

Pleased to hear you're (relatively) intact.

J
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 05 July, 2011, 10:30:13 pm
That must have been quite a crash, to have done that much crunching. GWS
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 05 July, 2011, 10:39:56 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 05 July, 2011, 10:30:13 pm
That must have been quite a crash, to have done that much crunching. GWS

Neither of my shoulders are particularly stable, and being near my ears I can hear them grumbling most of the time. There'll probably be a video or two in an hour or so.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 05 July, 2011, 10:42:44 pm
Oh carp, sorry to hear this. GWS Ben.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 06 July, 2011, 12:59:40 am
There you go:

Video of me crashing all on my own (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zIDWLcVJLDM)

I like the tree at the end.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 06 July, 2011, 01:08:04 am
Ow!  Hope there's no serious damage benborp.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CyclistsAnonymous on 06 July, 2011, 01:10:53 am
Quote from: benborp on 06 July, 2011, 12:59:40 am
There you go:

Video of me crashing all on my own (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zIDWLcVJLDM)

I like the tree at the end.

Nasty dude, hope you're alright. In the process of watching all your videos. That motorbike near miss was epic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Karla on 06 July, 2011, 01:12:15 am
Ouch!  Sorry to hear this benborp, get well soon!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 06 July, 2011, 06:49:29 am
Keep a Look out for young aggressive driver in a red car Reg LV6 KRO has no respect for other road users and gets to close and likes to use his horn  :demon: (central London) I bet your not so tuff when your not sitting in your little metal box on wheels Now finish post with losts of threats and promise of revenge blah blah
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 July, 2011, 08:13:32 am
Crikey, that were a fast one!  It just ticked down to 26.7kph average as I slowed to stop at the gates of work. 

I shall completely ignore all suggestions that there might have been a tailwind ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 06 July, 2011, 08:32:18 am
Quote from: clarion on 06 July, 2011, 08:13:32 am
Crikey, that were a fast one!  It just ticked down to 26.7kph average as I slowed to stop at the gates of work. 

I shall completely ignore all suggestions that there might have been a tailwind ;D

I told you that you were fast! As I pass through the Oval to get towards Vauxhall I always look left at the traffic lights to spot you but you are never there  :'( It is around 7:55 a.m. so it may be too late  :)

Benborp - that sounded nasty last night. Hope you are feeling better today  :-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: darkpoint on 06 July, 2011, 09:47:01 am
Stopped to help a chap with a puncture at Smithfields this morning. 

At which point I proved that such things are sometimes a faf for people who have done it before.   His replacement tube also had a hole, so I ended up leaning a tube,  then one of my leavers snapped.

So I gave him one of my spares,  and he was eventually on his way,  but clearly I need some practice as I should be able to change a tube faster than that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 06 July, 2011, 09:50:32 am
such tired, tired legs this morning. Would have taken the bus, but I need to home via boat moorings tonight to pick up tools. That adds 7miles to the trip. Yay :-/
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 06 July, 2011, 02:26:32 pm
Quote from: darkpoint on 06 July, 2011, 09:47:01 am
So I gave him one of my spares,  and he was eventually on his way,  but clearly I need some practice as I should be able to change a tube faster than that.

I'm crap at changing tubes.  I don't get enough punctures to get much practice.  I consider this a good thing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 06 July, 2011, 02:47:22 pm
Quote from: clarion on 06 July, 2011, 08:13:32 am
Crikey, that were a fast one!  It just ticked down to 26.7kph average as I slowed to stop at the gates of work. 

I shall completely ignore all suggestions that there might have been a tailwind ;D

Just remember, every tailwind for you is a headwind for someone else.......


And commiserations Benborp, glad you weren't badly hurt hurt any worse than you were. Was the spill off the white paint, or off the road?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 July, 2011, 02:54:27 pm
Quote from: Ham on 06 July, 2011, 02:47:22 pm
Quote from: clarion on 06 July, 2011, 08:13:32 am
Crikey, that were a fast one!  It just ticked down to 26.7kph average as I slowed to stop at the gates of work. 

I shall completely ignore all suggestions that there might have been a tailwind ;D

Just remember, every tailwind for you is a headwind for someone else.......
...

*fingers in ears*

LALALA I can't hear you
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CyclistsAnonymous on 06 July, 2011, 05:03:42 pm
Quote from: darkpoint on 06 July, 2011, 09:47:01 am
Stopped to help a chap with a puncture at Smithfields this morning. 

At which point I proved that such things are sometimes a faf for people who have done it before.   His replacement tube also had a hole, so I ended up leaning a tube,  then one of my leavers snapped.

So I gave him one of my spares,  and he was eventually on his way,  but clearly I need some practice as I should be able to change a tube faster than that.

strong thumbs are faster than levers imo.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 July, 2011, 09:33:34 pm
I set off from work in the wrong direction, and rode to Deptford to meet with Southwark (& other) cyclists following Barry Mason's funeral, which I was unfortunately unable to attend.

I saw Her_Welshness and Bill, among others, and we chatted.  After a while, we rode to the Surrey Docks Farm, where Barry used to work, and where there was a wake in progress.  I rode home from there.

By, it were windy! :o 

I met up with Butterfly near Clapham Common, and we rode home together (not very fast at all).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 06 July, 2011, 09:42:29 pm
Quote from: clarion on 06 July, 2011, 09:33:34 pm


By, it were windy! :o 

I met up with Butterfly near Clapham Common, and we rode home together (not very fast at all).

Sorry, was there any wind on the way home? I don't think so.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 06 July, 2011, 09:45:38 pm
Oh, and to the girl on the SS Bob Jackson: respec'. But I was always going to get up the flyover faster, and then (1) my 115" gear (2) the wind (3) my weight made the outcome inevitable.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gerwinium on 06 July, 2011, 09:48:43 pm
Been giving my foot rest to stop the swelling the last few days, I can't wait to get back on the bike tomorrow... I can't stand public transport, even if it's only 15 mins.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 July, 2011, 09:58:54 pm
Quote from: Ham on 06 July, 2011, 09:42:29 pm
Quote from: clarion on 06 July, 2011, 09:33:34 pm


By, it were windy! :o 

I met up with Butterfly near Clapham Common, and we rode home together (not very fast at all).

Sorry, was there any wind on the way home? I don't think so.

:P ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 July, 2011, 10:25:12 pm
In Tooting, one poor chap got a bin bag wrapped round his axle.  He was looking baffled, so I stopped to help.

To give an idea of how strong the wind was, the bag was from Lambeth Council! ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 06 July, 2011, 11:12:42 pm
Stopped to help someone with a puncture - they had a pump, but no tube, levers or patches.

Had to go home long way round - so 90km commute today and a hard day at work. I'm knackered!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 07 July, 2011, 06:12:19 am
Wind was very blustery yesterday.  Not nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 July, 2011, 09:10:34 am
Rain.

Rain.

Rain.

And I saw an idiot nearly get taken out at Clapham Common by going through a red light into the path of another cyclist going through a green, then swerving into the path of a bus whose driver was skilful enough to avoid him.

Same rider, Clapham North: Slowing behind a bus, but not enough.  Planted himself flat into it in a comedy style, then stood looking puzzled.

I didn't stop to help.  Normally, I might, but this idiot was entirely to blame for everything that happened.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 07 July, 2011, 09:31:52 am
I fell foul of the Commissars this morning. Going for the intermediate sprint down off of Winter Hill, that young upstart Team Nature sprinter Woody O'Pigeon launched right accross my line >:(

I had to lean in quite forcefully with my head to persuade him to lay off ;D

What else was I supposed to do ::-)

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 07 July, 2011, 09:37:28 am
Rode in on the newly Alfine-ised Genesis, complete with comedy 'half taped' bars1. No mysterious grinding noises and nothing that I'm aware of went 'ping' so I guess it bodes well for tonight's ride.

Even the wind wasn't too bad.

1 - Only got tape on the tops, for added padding purposes. My orange bar tape still hasn't turned up yet so I can't finish the job.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 07 July, 2011, 09:56:06 am
Set off this morning from Chez Vorsprung with the intent of taking it easy on the ride in to work

I've decided that I need to do at least some commutes at LSD pace to recover as I ride

This worked fine until I got to the traffic lights/lane split/mad bit in Taunton and then I felt the need to apply the after burners.  It just feels safer at 20mph+ in traffic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 07 July, 2011, 10:46:41 am
Ugg. Did not even mind the rain this morning. I was letting through a bendy bus at Peckham and had just put my left foot onto the kerb, missed the kerb and fell sideways onto the pavement. My knees and hands took the bashing and to my surprise a really nice female cyclist got me and my bike towards a bench and ordered me to rest for 5 minutes. I started crying and then told myself to MTFU. I then got back onto the bike and one of my overshoes started to wrap itself around my pedal so I nearly fell off again  >:( Once I got over Vauxhall bridge the rain had cleared but then I had the headwind of doom (my exaggeration) along the Chelsea Embankment.

Am glad to be in work but my knees are sore now  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 July, 2011, 10:49:45 am
Oh crikey, that sounds bad.  Hope you're feeling better when the time comes to go home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 07 July, 2011, 11:02:42 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 07 July, 2011, 10:46:41 am
Ugg. Did not even mind the rain this morning. I was letting through a bendy bus at Peckham and had just put my left foot onto the kerb, missed the kerb and fell sideways onto the pavement. My knees and hands took the bashing and to my surprise a really nice female cyclist got me and my bike towards a bench and ordered me to rest for 5 minutes. I started crying and then told myself to MTFU. I then got back onto the bike and one of my overshoes started to wrap itself around my pedal so I nearly fell off again  >:( Once I got over Vauxhall bridge the rain had cleared but then I had the headwind of doom (my exaggeration) along the Chelsea Embankment.

Am glad to be in work but my knees are sore now  :(

Treat yourself to a cake for elevenses  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 07 July, 2011, 11:04:14 am
As I went by the place of my interaction with the car several Aprils ago, I saw a lady leaving that car park on a bicycle.
She was actually waiting for a gap in the traffic inorder to intergrate into the flow.  We smiled at each other.

I think it was the lady that previously knocked me off.  Now she is biking it to and from work  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 07 July, 2011, 11:04:57 am
Quote from: clarion on 07 July, 2011, 10:49:45 am
Oh crikey, that sounds bad.  Hope you're feeling better when the time comes to go home.

Thanks Clarion. I might just leave my bicycle in the library overnight  :-\ I bloody hates public transport.

Grub - I have already had pain au chocolat  :).

On commutes like these....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 July, 2011, 11:05:35 am
Quote from: Grub on 07 July, 2011, 11:04:14 am
As I went by the place of my interaction with the car several Aprils ago, I saw a lady leaving that car park on a bicycle.
She was actually waiting for a gap in the traffic inorder to intergrate into the flow.  We smiled at each other.

I think it was the lady that previously knocked me off.  Now she is biking it to and from work  :thumbsup:

Doesn't she know how dangerous it is? ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Crock of Gold on 07 July, 2011, 11:14:16 am
Was that you I spoke today, Clarion, at Clapham South?

If so, I didn't recognise you, which is why I was not very talkative.

You on for the curry next Tuesday?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 07 July, 2011, 11:30:10 am
Had a puncture, this morning.  In the rain.  Joy.  Fixed it and sped on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 July, 2011, 11:37:41 am
Yes, it was me, and I wasn't very talkative myself, for two reasons.

Firstly, I couldn't remember your name (well, actually, I did, but I wasn't sure enough I was right, and felt a bit inhibited about saying 'Crock of Gold?' to someone on the road :-[ )

Secondly, with that much rain and road noise, my deafness can't really cope, so I didn't catch much of what you said as it was ;D

I'm still hoping to be alongon Tuesday.  Hope Gaz is repaired enough to make it.

What did you think of the idiot riding into the back of the bus?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 July, 2011, 11:37:57 am
Quote from: itsbruce on 07 July, 2011, 11:30:10 am
Had a puncture, this morning.  In the rain.  Joy.  Fixed it and sped on.


It's always in the rain.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 07 July, 2011, 11:57:48 am
You may recall that KidJambo once said that is because water makes tyre rubber softer and therefore more susceptible to punctures.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 07 July, 2011, 12:06:43 pm
Quote from: Crock of Gold on 07 July, 2011, 11:14:16 am
Was that you I spoke today, Clarion, at Clapham South?

If so, I didn't recognise you, which is why I was not very talkative.

You on for the curry next Tuesday?

Ahh Crock of Gold - hello *waves* my nearly newest BFF.  :-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 07 July, 2011, 12:07:05 pm
I also think water mobilises nasty little sharp objects thereby leaving them possibly with sharp side up as well as washing them out of otherwise safe places.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 July, 2011, 12:12:10 pm
Sticks them to the tyre, giving them another chance to work their way in.

I'm not convinced that water softens rubber.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 07 July, 2011, 12:17:56 pm
Quote from: hatler on 07 July, 2011, 12:07:05 pm
I also think water mobilises nasty little sharp objects thereby leaving them possibly with sharp side up as well as washing them out of otherwise safe places.

Totally agree and always a very noticeable difference for me riding the lanes I do.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: darkpoint on 07 July, 2011, 12:56:01 pm
Quote from: clarion on 07 July, 2011, 12:12:10 pm
Sticks them to the tyre, giving them another chance to work their way in.

I'm not convinced that water softens rubber.

Water doesn't soften rubber,  but it does lubricate the cut.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 07 July, 2011, 12:58:04 pm
And the winner is....... Darkpoint!!!  :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 July, 2011, 12:59:09 pm
darkpoint

Quote from: Grub on 07 July, 2011, 11:57:48 am
You may recall that KidJambo once said that is because water makes tyre rubber softer and therefore more susceptible to punctures.

I was responding to this comment.  I just don't buy it.

I feel your suggestion is another factor, though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Crock of Gold on 07 July, 2011, 01:01:43 pm
Her Welshness - have the aches gone from the fall?  :(

Coming for the curry next week? It's a Cycle Chat commuters thing - stop off on the way home. Next Tuesday, 6.30 at the Mirch Marsala just south of Tooting Bec. Last time it was an intimate meal with just Origamist and me, but a few more this time. It's a cafe rather than a restaurant so very informal, very cheap and very tasty. You know you want to...  :P

Clarion - Gaz can't make it unfortunately. Shoulder still in pain.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Crock of Gold on 07 July, 2011, 01:03:29 pm
Oh - I saw him cycle into the bus! He just stood there afters as though the bus had just appeared from nowhere. Hehehe.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 07 July, 2011, 02:14:42 pm
Reminds me of what happened to me the other evening - I often wiggle my way behind Sussex Gardens, a much quieter option going w-e than Marble Arch, Grosvenor Square. Not often that many cars that way. At one point, I had to turn right and there was a car in front and a taxi behind. In Sunny Pootle mode, I had my left hand on the top of the drop bars, and decided to signal with my right while moving into primary. So far, so good. Unfortunately the driver of the car decided to stop for a cyclist (who would have been long gone had she just continued)........ I managed to grab a small handful of brake, but still had a v.slight wheel-bumper interaction.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 07 July, 2011, 05:26:46 pm
Quote from: Crock of Gold on 07 July, 2011, 01:01:43 pm
Her Welshness - have the aches gone from the fall?  :(

Coming for the curry next week? It's a Cycle Chat commuters thing - stop off on the way home. Next Tuesday, 6.30 at the Mirch Marsala just south of Tooting Bec. Last time it was an intimate meal with just Origamist and me, but a few more this time. It's a cafe rather than a restaurant so very informal, very cheap and very tasty. You know you want to...  :P

Clarion - Gaz can't make it unfortunately. Shoulder still in pain.
The aches have just about gone, thanks for asking! Am working at the library til 8 on Tuesday but can swing by for a naan?! Would be great to see you  :-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 07 July, 2011, 05:57:09 pm
Just cycled from work (101 Science Park, Cambridge) to the station. Two full panniers, blustery headwind, barley, messenger bag, rush hour traffic, numpties on bikes. Due to faffage didn't set off til about 17:23, but managed to get to the station and on to the platform by 17:39 so I had time to buy a baguette and some water. I only averaged 22.6kph.

Euston Road may well be hard work too. But it will be worth it for what awaits me at the end of the journey. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 07 July, 2011, 06:00:35 pm
Quote from: simonp on 07 July, 2011, 05:57:09 pm
Just cycled from work (101 Science Park, Cambridge) to the station. Two full panniers, blustery headwind, barley, messenger bag, rush hour traffic, numpties on bikes. Due to faffage didn't set off til about 17:23, but managed to get to the station and on to the platform by 17:39 so I had time to buy a baguette and some water. I only averaged 22.6kph.

Euston Road may well be hard work too. But it will be worth it for what awaits me at the end of the journey. :)

Yes, but don't forget you're actually meant to working from home tomorrow ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 07 July, 2011, 06:16:29 pm
Quote from: simonp on 07 July, 2011, 05:57:09 pm
Just cycled from work (101 Science Park, Cambridge) to the station. Two full panniers, blustery headwind, barley, messenger bag, rush hour traffic, numpties on bikes. Due to faffage didn't set off til about 17:23, but managed to get to the station and on to the platform by 17:39 so I had time to buy a baguette and some water. I only averaged 22.6kph.

Euston Road may well be hard work too. But it will be worth it for what awaits me at the end of the journey. :)

Ahhh..you old romantic softie you  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 07 July, 2011, 07:53:25 pm
Quote from: Feline on 07 July, 2011, 06:00:35 pm
Quote from: simonp on 07 July, 2011, 05:57:09 pm
Just cycled from work (101 Science Park, Cambridge) to the station. Two full panniers, blustery headwind, barley, messenger bag, rush hour traffic, numpties on bikes. Due to faffage didn't set off til about 17:23, but managed to get to the station and on to the platform by 17:39 so I had time to buy a baguette and some water. I only averaged 22.6kph.

Euston Road may well be hard work too. But it will be worth it for what awaits me at the end of the journey. :)

Yes, but don't forget you're actually meant to working from home tomorrow ;)

And I’ve nearly finished the work I started two weeks ago…
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 07 July, 2011, 08:12:34 pm
A nice but fast ride home.   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 July, 2011, 08:47:25 pm
Windy all the way home.  And my BB was loose. :(

But not a bad ride, for all that. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 07 July, 2011, 09:56:21 pm
Gahhh. What a stupid bloody day of commuting. Was bimbling away quite happily until New Cross when the puncture faerie waved her wand  >:( Got home to discover that as I have a non-quick release I don't have the tools to get the bloody tyre off. Am going on public transport tomorrow, have had enough  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 July, 2011, 10:02:25 pm
Oh Bah!

I wish my commute were near yours instead of just crossing it, and I could ride with you and ward off the evil sprites.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 07 July, 2011, 10:28:21 pm
Thanks Clarion  :-*. I've got a works do tomorrow so its probably best to take the train, although the 8 minutes that I spent on it tonight convinced me that purgatory is a better place to be.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 07 July, 2011, 10:43:53 pm
A bit of a longer commute today.
I left the house a shade before 6 this morning and got to work at just after 9:20 - in Tring!

A really great ride, slightly spoilt by epic rain 20 minutes before arriving!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 07 July, 2011, 11:27:40 pm
Thanks everyone for all your good wishes after my fall the other day! As I mentioned I was due to see someone about my shoulder anyway. X-rays today revealed that there is a good deal more collar bone than the last time I saw it on film. I'm now expecting to have the metalwork around it removed in September which should hopefully stop it and me from grumbling so much.

Anyway, a nice couple of rides today, missing the rain by the skin of my teeth this morning and enjoying the sensation of swishing along bright, glistening clean roads - a marked contrast to riding in the grotty wetness of earlier in the week. Tonight I was able to enjoy a conversation with a fellow Genesis rider between the Walworth Road and Herne Hill and despite cycling back at a late hour there was pretty much always another cyclist in sight. That, plus the lack of muppetry, rounded off a good day on two wheels for me.

her_welshness, I'm sure you'll bounce back into a sweet spot of commuting  mojoness soon enough.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 08 July, 2011, 08:24:02 am
It was very wet when I got out of bed this morning so I donned ther Altura 'boil in the bag' jacket as I left. Sho' nuff, 5 minutes down the road and the rain had pretty much stopped ::-)

Team Nature was at it again this morning as well. At the top of Qurry Wood Lane, approaching the left hand bend towards Winter Hill I started to barke, queue squealing front brake. I then almost ran into the Team Nature support horse that had spooked and frozen in the middle of the bend :o

Avoided a kicking and, after a cheery "good morning- sorry about the squealy brakes", I continued on my way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 08 July, 2011, 08:28:36 am
...and another brilliant piece of driving from a 320 driver last night.  That stuff makes me super happy!  The driver waited behind at some roadworks in Leaves Green, and clearly would have patiently waited behind till I got though, but I pulled left and waved him past.  Thank you hazards resulted.

Surprisingly nice ride last night too, and warmer than Wednesday evening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 July, 2011, 08:49:34 am
Astonishing ride this morning.  I had a bit of friday legs, but Butterfly tore off at a terrific pace.  A moment's daydreaming on London Road left me struggling to catch up! :o

My best ever distance for 30mins elapsed from leaving home is the junction of Bedford Road in Balham.  This morning, we were only a tad short of that.

And it just got faster.  My average peaked over 27kph, and I was ridiculously early for work, so I added in another loop.  This did, of course, push me through more traffic light junctions, over poor road surfaces and back into the wind a bit, but I still got to work with a 26.9kph average :o

I fear the homeward leg may not be so swift.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 08 July, 2011, 09:48:46 am
I wasn't in the mood last night for a big effort.  So instead of the planned "training" ride up the big hill home, I took the usual easy route.  And I wasn't pushing it at all.  I was breathing through the mouth nose only, that's my power limiter.

So I wasn't overly surprised when a slicked MTB caught me on a short bit of 1:6
He had no luggage and was wearing a "Specialized" jersey.  I was on the Orbea, which is a proper racing bike but I have a 23 litre saddlebag

I upped my pace a little bit to stay a couple of bike lengths back.
When we went down the other side I was surprised that he freewheeled.  On the next little rise he put a little bit more pace in and looked back as if he thought I'd be dropped.  Then we were onto a flattish section.  I wonder if he was expecting a counter attack?

As previously discussed I was in ICBA mood so I was quite happy to stay behind him until I turned off.  I cut the corner on the way to Culmstock there.  He went straight on.

Now here's the funny bit.  He was going to Culmstock too but didn't know the short cut.  I appeared on the road about 10 metres ahead of him.  Although I wasn't in the mood for attacking and dropping someone- this really this was a gift!   So I put on some speed and got down the ascent ahead.  Then through the village and up the hill the other side.  I looked back at this point, no sign of him.  I looked back a couple of times in the next mile or so, nothing.

To be honest I thought he'd probably turned off and was going to another village in the area.

I was about 200 metres from home when mr slick MTB appeared again.  The twisty road meant I didn't see him until he was 2 or 3 bike lengths back.  I wasn't going to let him beat me home so I applied what passes for a sprint with me, upping the speed to 30mph.  Then it was my turn off to where I live.  

Victory was mine etc etc
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 08 July, 2011, 09:55:22 am
Quote from: benborp on 07 July, 2011, 11:27:40 pm
Thanks everyone for all your good wishes after my fall the other day! As I mentioned I was due to see someone about my shoulder anyway. X-rays today revealed that there is a good deal more collar bone than the last time I saw it on film. I'm now expecting to have the metalwork around it removed in September which should hopefully stop it and me from grumbling so much.

Anyway, a nice couple of rides today, missing the rain by the skin of my teeth this morning and enjoying the sensation of swishing along bright, glistening clean roads - a marked contrast to riding in the grotty wetness of earlier in the week. Tonight I was able to enjoy a conversation with a fellow Genesis rider between the Walworth Road and Herne Hill and despite cycling back at a late hour there was pretty much always another cyclist in sight. That, plus the lack of muppetry, rounded off a good day on two wheels for me.

her_welshness, I'm sure you'll bounce back into a sweet spot of commuting  mojoness soon enough.



Glad to know that your collar bone is progressing nicely! One of my colleagues has kindly leant me a 15mm wrench thingy (I don't know what its called) so that I can remove my wheel when I get home drunk from the works do tonight  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 08 July, 2011, 09:59:59 am
Nice one Vorsprung!  I assume you meant nose breathing?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 08 July, 2011, 10:08:17 am
Quote from: Wendy on 08 July, 2011, 09:59:59 am
Nice one Vorsprung!  I assume you meant nose breathing?

Dooh yes  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 08 July, 2011, 10:52:44 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 08 July, 2011, 09:55:22 am
One of my colleagues has kindly leant me a 15mm wrench thingy (I don't know what its called) so that I can remove my wheel when I get home drunk from the works do tonight  :thumbsup:

Sounds like you might want to put some preemptive plasters on your knuckles.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 08 July, 2011, 11:37:49 am
Quote from: benborp on 08 July, 2011, 10:52:44 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 08 July, 2011, 09:55:22 am
One of my colleagues has kindly leant me a 15mm wrench thingy (I don't know what its called) so that I can remove my wheel when I get home drunk from the works do tonight  :thumbsup:

Sounds like you might want to put some preemptive plasters on your knuckles.

Bloody good point, thanks Benborp, plasters and then surgical gloves  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Crock of Gold on 08 July, 2011, 12:50:10 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 07 July, 2011, 05:26:46 pm
Quote from: Crock of Gold on 07 July, 2011, 01:01:43 pm
Her Welshness - have the aches gone from the fall?  :(

Coming for the curry next week? It's a Cycle Chat commuters thing - stop off on the way home. Next Tuesday, 6.30 at the Mirch Marsala just south of Tooting Bec. Last time it was an intimate meal with just Origamist and me, but a few more this time. It's a cafe rather than a restaurant so very informal, very cheap and very tasty. You know you want to...  :P

Clarion - Gaz can't make it unfortunately. Shoulder still in pain.
The aches have just about gone, thanks for asking! Am working at the library til 8 on Tuesday but can swing by for a naan?! Would be great to see you  :-*

Good stuff. See you then.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 08 July, 2011, 01:23:02 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 08 July, 2011, 11:37:49 am
Bloody good point, thanks Benborp, plasters and then surgical gloves  :thumbsup:

Oh. That reminds me of a dream I had.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 08 July, 2011, 04:37:24 pm
A tad wet this morning when I ventured out into the SE London badlands. Succeeded in getting wetter. By the time I was scooting down the side of Peckham Rye I was wetter than Patrick Duffy in the shower. Just as I pulled up at the lights I had a thought. Appropriately enough about the fact that I had been swimming yesterday, and that weren't my bike locks still in my swim bag, rather than in the pannier attached to the back of my bike.

They indeed were.

So I had to cycle the seven miles back to the steppes of Croydon in even more rain and phone in my meeting. Of course, no sooner had I sat down to slowly moulder, the sun began to stream through the window.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 09 July, 2011, 07:58:39 am
A tad wet here too - but I was chuffed that for a change I got it right.  I put my Goretex on before leaving home and was therefore ready when the heavens opened.  Sort of stopped by the time I'd got to work though.  Was quite sheltered from the strong wind too.

Enjoyed a 47kph tail wind on the way home for a change too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 09 July, 2011, 08:37:58 am
Missed the rain going and coming, but I paid the rest of the day.  I wasn't dry once during my eight hour day, second day running.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tourist Tony on 10 July, 2011, 04:36:57 pm
A train up to Cla'am J and a ride out to the Wetlands Centre. To the nice gentleman who forced his way past me onto the train home, you pushed me so hard you made my bike swing to the right.

Beige suit. Chain.

Enjoy!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 10 July, 2011, 07:09:10 pm
Quote from: Tourist Tony on 10 July, 2011, 04:36:57 pm
A train up to Cla'am J and a ride out to the Wetlands Centre. To the nice gentleman who forced his way past me onto the train home, you pushed me so hard you made my bike swing to the right.

Beige suit. Chain.

Enjoy!

 ;D Norty  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 July, 2011, 09:04:17 pm
Those sort of accidents can happen...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 10 July, 2011, 09:55:30 pm
I find that sort of thing totally reprehensible.

A beige suit? What was the nice gentleman thinking of?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 10 July, 2011, 10:29:54 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 10 July, 2011, 09:55:30 pm
I find that sort of thing totally reprehensible.

A beige suit? What was the nice gentleman thinking of?

Merchant Ivory
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 11 July, 2011, 09:51:40 pm
Several echelons formed on the way home to combat the cross winds.  I tried to go with the breakaway group but couldn't bridge the gap.

I'll try and do better next time and find some one to actually ride with.  That might help.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 11 July, 2011, 11:27:04 pm
My commute today was from the bedroom to the shed to get paint and brushes and back to the bedroom. A week off work to paint ceilings.

My new neck is on order.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 12 July, 2011, 08:47:35 am
NOOOOO...

GAH - Surface dressing Ashbury Hill/thru Ashbury today; it may be patched potholed to hell, but at least it's patched tarmac at the moment, not that (s)pray it sticks shite :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 12 July, 2011, 08:50:01 am
I too share you pain! Nooooooooo to surface dressing. Bloody awful stuff. And it begs the question "Why?"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 12 July, 2011, 08:58:20 am
The spray seal is to 'waterproof' the stuff under the surface. The surface dressing is for texture.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 12 July, 2011, 09:02:59 am
Ah, but when the surface dressing fails as on the B383 in sunningdale they have no choice but to do a proper plane and resurface.

The new finnish is sooooooo smooth.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 12 July, 2011, 09:10:25 am
... and so expensive and time-consuming to apply.

Still prefer riding on hot-mix but surface dressing exists for a sensible reason.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 July, 2011, 09:59:42 am
Had a good ride in this morning - first half with Butterfly, which is always an excellent way to start the day.

We thought we were going to see someone squished in Balham when he rode up the left of a scaffolding truck, then squeezed through the tiny gap at the rear corner of a bus where the truck was waiting just as the truck was able to move off.  Fortunately, the truck stopped in time.  The cyclist banged the passenger door of the truck, but it didn't make him right.  he then rode off up the left of a bus :facepalm:

The scaffolders were cheery & chatty, though, so I hope they got the idea that not all cyclists are stupid pricks.

I've been riding in early for a couple of weeks, so to be back among all the rush hour cyclists was quite a buzz.  At Oval, there was a sea of hi-viz, and the cars were being very careful indeed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 12 July, 2011, 10:23:54 am
Not impressed by the three cyclists who rode straight through at a zebra crossing in Bermondsey at about 8.15, as a young mum with a buggy and a toddler were trying to cross.  Would it have been so hard to stop for 15 seconds?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 July, 2011, 12:39:13 pm
Yes.  They need to win the commute!  Did you not know?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 12 July, 2011, 12:56:13 pm
New PB this morning: 12.71miles in 38.55mins @ 19.6mpn avg  :)
On the winter bike with a rucksack  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 12 July, 2011, 01:17:46 pm
Quote from: clarion on 12 July, 2011, 12:39:13 pm
Yes.  They need to win the commute!  Did you not know?

Hah! Well I beat them all to the next set of lights, despite stopping at the crossing :-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Crock of Gold on 12 July, 2011, 01:40:43 pm
TONIGHT TONIGHT TONIGHT

Mirch Masala, 213 Upper Tooting Rd from 6.30 onwards.

http://maps.google.c...488761535099385

 :P  :P  :P

 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 July, 2011, 02:50:16 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 12 July, 2011, 01:17:46 pm
Quote from: clarion on 12 July, 2011, 12:39:13 pm
Yes.  They need to win the commute!  Did you not know?

Hah! Well I beat them all to the next set of lights, despite stopping at the crossing :-)

I love it when that happens :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Titan yer Tummy on 12 July, 2011, 02:51:31 pm
For any of you who haven't seen it this is the collision on the TdF on Sunday afternoon when a TV car crashed into Juan Antonio Flecha who then hits Johnny Hoogerland and catapults him into the barbed wire roadside fence.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tWT8yeHGA0U (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tWT8yeHGA0U)
 
It is an appalling piece of driving. The driver has been banned from the remainder of the Tour and one would hope every Tour yet to come. He may face prosecution. I would certainly hope he does.
 
The main reason for this posting however is I believe this little clip illustrates exactly how the majority of the motorised road users view cyclists. When we are not in the way - fine; but if you become an hinderence or inconvenience, woe betide; you are in play and the devil may take the consequences.
 
This little clip above all shows us the danger we are all in on the road and the importance of us riding defensively, lest we too are mown down like so much canon fodder.

It really is a very dangerous place out there and you let your wits down at your very great peril.
 
Keep pedallin' but above all keep safe.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 12 July, 2011, 02:56:46 pm
Funnily enough that very morning I had this (http://youtu.be/r7ER0TdcjFg) happen to me, which seems uncannily similar, bar the lower speed.  Same driver impatience, same lack of planning ahead for an approaching obstacle, and same 'k the cyclist pull left attitude.

I'm just lucky the driver telegraphed her intentions and that I was looking rearward to see that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 12 July, 2011, 04:23:52 pm
Quote from: Titan yer Tummy on 12 July, 2011, 02:51:31 pm
The main reason for this posting however is I believe this little clip illustrates exactly how the majority a very small minority of the motorised road users view cyclists. When we are not in the way - fine; but if you become an hinderence or inconvenience, woe betide; you are in play and the devil may take the consequences.
 

FTFY

Seriously, if you commute any distance in a city, you must encounter hundreds of cars. Do the majority cause a problem?
IME, I get one dodgy manoeuvre about every 6 commuting rides. That's 150miles and thousands of cars. The problem drivers are in the minority.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 12 July, 2011, 05:51:24 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 12 July, 2011, 04:23:52 pm
Quote from: Titan yer Tummy on 12 July, 2011, 02:51:31 pm
The main reason for this posting however is I believe this little clip illustrates exactly how the majority a very small minority of the motorised road users view cyclists. When we are not in the way - fine; but if you become an hinderence or inconvenience, woe betide; you are in play and the devil may take the consequences.
 

FTFY

Seriously, if you commute any distance in a city, you must encounter hundreds of cars. Do the majority cause a problem?
IME, I get one dodgy manoeuvre about every 6 commuting rides. That's 150miles and thousands of cars. The problem drivers are in the minority.

My partner, VoleOSpeed would disagree. Today's blog reports several close encounters in rather few miles.  http://voleospeed.blogspot.com/ (http://voleospeed.blogspot.com/)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 12 July, 2011, 08:18:30 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 12 July, 2011, 02:56:46 pm
Funnily enough that very morning I had this (http://youtu.be/r7ER0TdcjFg) happen to me, which seems uncannily similar, bar the lower speed.  Same driver impatience, same lack of planning ahead for an approaching obstacle, and same 'k the cyclist pull left attitude.

I'm just lucky the driver telegraphed her intentions and that I was looking rearward to see that.


That's a particularly nasty pinch point. It's always in shadow under the bridge and with a bus lane to the previous lights and a bus stop just before the bridge the cars are always driving in at you as they overtake the bus stopping just behind you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 12 July, 2011, 08:24:16 pm
Quote from: hellymedic on 12 July, 2011, 05:51:24 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 12 July, 2011, 04:23:52 pm
Quote from: Titan yer Tummy on 12 July, 2011, 02:51:31 pm
The main reason for this posting however is I believe this little clip illustrates exactly how the majority a very small minority of the motorised road users view cyclists. When we are not in the way - fine; but if you become an hinderence or inconvenience, woe betide; you are in play and the devil may take the consequences.
 

FTFY

Seriously, if you commute any distance in a city, you must encounter hundreds of cars. Do the majority cause a problem?
IME, I get one dodgy manoeuvre about every 6 commuting rides. That's 150miles and thousands of cars. The problem drivers are in the minority.

My partner, VoleOSpeed would disagree. Today's blog reports several close encounters in rather few miles.  http://voleospeed.blogspot.com/ (http://voleospeed.blogspot.com/)
I still maintain that it is a minority.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 12 July, 2011, 10:11:59 pm
+1. Roads half empty, roads half full.

Roads are as dangerous as you want to make them, and as dangerous as you realise they are; I'm convinced a number of riders I see haven't the foggiest notion of the danger they are in. To suggest that cyclists on the road form a cohesive group in any sense of the word suggests the writer rides different streets to me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 July, 2011, 10:28:16 pm
I don't doubt that it is a minority.  Tiny, I'd say.  But I do see hundreds and hundreds of cars on every ride.  And I also see a few really dodgy moves every ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 12 July, 2011, 10:45:47 pm
Even if only 1% of drivers drive like cocks, you might encounter half a dozen on a short ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 July, 2011, 10:49:32 pm
That sounds like the right sort of proportions.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 12 July, 2011, 10:51:25 pm
If they really were that dangerous, we'd all be dead or injured. An unfortunate number of us are, but that really does reflect the road miles travelled, and the statistical likelihood of something happening. I'd go as far as to say that for as many bad driving close calls there are equal numbers of good drivers, helping numbnut (or maybe just unlucky) cyclists survive the day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 July, 2011, 10:58:11 pm
I had cause to thank a cabbie for letting me out to change lane at E&C.  I looked round to check he was pulling alongside, andwas pleased to see that his window was open, so I could make a point of thanking him, and explained what for.  I hope it means he does the right thing next time as well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 12 July, 2011, 11:21:49 pm
Every injury I've had on the bike so far (total of 5 offs - one ludicrously minor zero speed on ice) have been (touches lots of wood) self inflicted.

I am seemingly a bigger danger to myself than the drivers around me are. (Given that if they do hit me, inuries are likely to be more severe)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 12 July, 2011, 11:32:25 pm
+1 to that.  Most of my offs have been surface-related and mostly off-road (though I suppose spilt diesel counts as an act of a driver).  I was clipped by a wing mirror once, but managed to stay in control of the bike and was only a little bruised.

I've also been seriously injured by a car as a pedestrian, and in a couple of minor (no injuries) collisions as a driver/passenger.  So in my personal collection of anecdata, cycling sensibly on a road seems at least as safe as using one (sensibly) as a pedestrian or motorist.

There's no shortage of cockwoblery on the roads, but very little of it has much in the way of consequences.  Which is why there's so much of it, of course.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 13 July, 2011, 07:50:29 am
Quote from: tonycollinet on 12 July, 2011, 11:21:49 pm
Every injury I've had on the bike so far (total of 5 offs - one ludicrously minor zero speed on ice) have been (touches lots of wood) self inflicted.

I am seemingly a bigger danger to myself than the drivers around me are. (Given that if they do hit me, inuries are likely to be more severe)

I think I read somewhere that that's the most common cycling crash - single vehicle and all by ourselves.  I've had one off each 'bent in the last five years or so, both at about 20mph.  Luckily not very far to fall, and lucky falls, so no injuries.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 13 July, 2011, 08:25:59 am
To the guy on the very nice Wilier at St Pauls, riding from Hornchurch, hoping to have a go round Hog Hill later today, who asked about The Shirt. If you do stop by here, welcome.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 13 July, 2011, 09:12:10 am
Barely had 3 hours sleep, last night, and yet this morning I had one of the speediest commutes of the year, despite an occasional headwind.  Given up undeerstanding my body, beyong being grateful that it likes bicycles.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 July, 2011, 09:21:18 am
I had an odd commute this morning.  I started slowly, holding Butterfly up rather.  Then I got faster, and we got separated before she had to turn off, so I didn't get to say goodbye :(

Then I kept getting faster, and I was absolutely flying by the time I got to Oval.

Shortly after, however, there was a chap at the roadside with a Foffa upside down.  I pulled in - Hey mate, I did shout 'Stopping!' and indicate as I pulled in to the side, and I have a yell like a fucking foghorn, so it's your own lookout if you don't anticipate, and, besides, what did you want to ride in the gutter for? - and checked he was OK.  He'd had a p*nct*re, and was just refitting his wheel, but thanked me for stopping.  Since he was trying to secure his wheelnuts with a crappy little box spanner, I lent him my wheelspanner to do the job a bit better.  It only occurred to me after I'd left him pumping up his tyres with his neat little Lezyne that he'd mentioned he'd had trouble getting the new tube in.  I hope he didn't pinch it, as he might struggle to undo the nuts with the little spanner after securing them with a proper one :-[

I didn't really get back up to speed, but I did get moving again.  At E&C, there was a crowd of cyclists around an ambulance at the St Georges Road exit.  I saw a red yacf jersey, so I went right round and pulled over to speak to darkpoint (for it was he).  

Apparently, the injured rider had a broken arm, and was being assessed by the Paramedics.  Darkpoint and the others were waiting for the Police to arrive, as they were witnesses.  I thought I'd best get out of the way, as there was nothing I could sensibly do to assist, but I was pleased that it wasn't one of ours who'd been hit.  Actually, I didn't ask for any of the detail (not really my business, and just prurient to be asking right then), and darkpoint might fill us in later.

I got to work in reflective mood.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: darkpoint on 13 July, 2011, 11:57:18 am
As Clarion reported rider down at E+C stopped to offer first aid. 
The cyclist had come from the A3 heading towards Blackfriers / London bridge, and the motorcyclist had come from the New Kent Road heading towards St Georges Street,  and had hit the rear wheel of the cyclist as he went to exit the junction.

I didn't see what happened but the other witnesses reported that the motorcyclist had come onto the roundabout fast, and had been on his horn the whole way round.

The cyclist had suspected broken arm, so i was acting as first aid helping to clear the road, and keep the cyclist comfortable till the medics arrived.

Took ages for the police to turn up to take statements.  A small group of witnesses hung around till then,  then it was a slow ish ride on from there to work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 July, 2011, 11:58:52 am
It's really good to see that witnesses actually stopped.  I've found that isn't always the case in London.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ianrauk on 13 July, 2011, 04:58:51 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 12 July, 2011, 02:56:46 pm
Funnily enough that very morning I had this (http://youtu.be/r7ER0TdcjFg) happen to me, which seems uncannily similar, bar the lower speed.  Same driver impatience, same lack of planning ahead for an approaching obstacle, and same 'k the cyclist pull left attitude.

I'm just lucky the driver telegraphed her intentions and that I was looking rearward to see that.


Oooh that's me, the cyclist in front.
So we both had a bit of commotion that morning Mike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Titan yer Tummy on 13 July, 2011, 05:38:12 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 12 July, 2011, 08:24:16 pm
Quote from: hellymedic on 12 July, 2011, 05:51:24 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 12 July, 2011, 04:23:52 pm
Quote from: Titan yer Tummy on 12 July, 2011, 02:51:31 pm
The main reason for this posting however is I believe this little clip illustrates exactly how the majority a very small minority of the motorised road users view cyclists. When we are not in the way - fine; but if you become an hinderence or inconvenience, woe betide; you are in play and the devil may take the consequences.
 

FTFY

Seriously, if you commute any distance in a city, you must encounter hundreds of cars. Do the majority cause a problem?
IME, I get one dodgy manoeuvre about every 6 commuting rides. That's 150miles and thousands of cars. The problem drivers are in the minority.

My partner, VoleOSpeed would disagree. Today's blog reports several close encounters in rather few miles.  http://voleospeed.blogspot.com/ (http://voleospeed.blogspot.com/)
I still maintain that it is a minority.

 I am going to stick to my gnus here. I think perhaps you are slightly misunderstanding what I am saying.
 
This video clip illustrates the attitude of drivers to us as fellow road users. If we are not in their way they are quite content to co-exist. Hence you can usually proceed along a road relatively untroubled. The problem arises when you are in the way. Some, many even, will accord precedence and wait their turn patiently. Most will not. The driver of the car concerned in the TdF incident is, one would assume, a professional driver employed for the purpose. He is driving a car in a bike race, yet he still swerves into a vulnerable road user to get through a pinch point. Why didn’t he slow down? Because he just didn’t care about the consequences. It’s all about me me me.
 
I think the points made by the partner of Hellymedic on his website are most eloquent and absolutely correct. In the past 24 hours I have done about 35 miles on 3 commutes. I have had 2 near misses ie where a motor vehicle has passed so close it has caused me concern (within 1 foot of me, causing me to memorise the registration number so I can SMIDSY it) this takes no account of those who have passed closer than the distance recommended by the Highway Code (163) viz. a cars width, which must run into dozens. These cars did not cause me a problem but they failed to follow proper driving protocols because they just didn’t care and sometimes the pass is so close it is uncomfortable (2 occasions in the last 24 hours for me) every once in a while the pass is so close it isn’t pass at all but a collision such as that experienced by Hoogerland or the poor sod at the Elephant this morning.
 
With best regards for safe cycling!
 
TyT
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 13 July, 2011, 06:49:55 pm
Nearly got taken out by a Tesco home delivery van on the way home.  Twat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 13 July, 2011, 06:53:52 pm
Went the long way home - extending the 2.5 mile ride to 20 miles.  Would have been more, but the traffic was shit. Sedgefield Back Lane is a vile rat run at the best of times and seemed especially bad today.  Plus I was nearly taken out by a fourteen-year old driving a VW, smoking a fag, and not looking where he was going. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: YahudaMoon on 13 July, 2011, 07:28:02 pm
On my way through Moss Side I caught up with two guys on matching mountain bikes in high viz jackets. We came to a junction with red lights  so I stop. One of the guys on the matching Marin MTB decides to go off roading on to the pavement for no apparent reason then back on the road ? His mate follows !

At this point I passed and said ' do you know it's illegal to cycle on the pavement ?'
He answered back 'Good point mate, it is illegal'. So I replied 'not setting a very good example are you ?'

Guess who they were ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Titan yer Tummy on 13 July, 2011, 07:45:38 pm
Quote from: Deano on 13 July, 2011, 06:53:52 pm
Went the long way home - extending the 2.5 mile ride to 20 miles.  Would have been more, but the traffic was shit. Sedgefield Back Lane is a vile rat run at the best of times and seemed especially bad today.  Plus I was nearly taken out by a fourteen-year old driving a VW, smoking a fag, and not looking where he was going. 

Outrageous smoking at that age!!
 
TyT
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 July, 2011, 08:14:42 pm
An odd occurrence on the way home.  At Clapham Common, I saw a chap stopped on the corner of a busy junction struggling with his bike, and apparently picking something up off the road.  I dismounted and went to the pedestrian crossing to go to help him, but I couldn't get across through the stream of traffic. 

That's when i noticed that he didn't have a saddle or seat post :o

But he got on the bike and pedalled away before I could get to him.  And, by the time I'd waited for a phase of the lights so I could rejoin the carriageway, he'd gone.  I hope he'd gone to Psubliminal to get sorted out...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 13 July, 2011, 08:37:31 pm
So, if he had had a seat post but no saddle, you could have understood? I think you may be spending too much time on this forum....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 13 July, 2011, 08:39:27 pm
Quote from: Titan yer Tummy on 13 July, 2011, 07:45:38 pm
Quote from: Deano on 13 July, 2011, 06:53:52 pm
Went the long way home - extending the 2.5 mile ride to 20 miles.  Would have been more, but the traffic was shit. Sedgefield Back Lane is a vile rat run at the best of times and seemed especially bad today.  Plus I was nearly taken out by a fourteen-year old driving a VW, smoking a fag, and not looking where he was going. 

Outrageous smoking at that age!!
 
TyT


Reminds me of a terrace chant at Feethams, Darlo's old ground:

"We've got the youngest smokers in the league"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Karla on 13 July, 2011, 08:51:10 pm
A minicab just pulled out on me, forcing me to scrub my speed while going up the only hill in town.  I'm seriously unimpressed but hey, it's the first time I've had to do that here in six years, which isn't bad going.

Still, Streamline Cabs, you are teh evilz.  I'm almost tempted to add you to my  blacklist along with 659 and Local but that would be a bit excessive.  In fact, you're a Laodicean cab company: neither hot nor cold, employing drivers that are neither good nor of the moronic imbecilic pants-shitting calibre of those employed by the other two firms.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 July, 2011, 08:58:38 pm
Had a good fast ride from about Clapham Common to Mitcham with a guy on a Spesh Tarmac wearing Motorola strip.  We were beyond Amen Corner before I realised that he didn't have any luggage at all!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 14 July, 2011, 12:04:02 am
Quote from: ianrauk on 13 July, 2011, 04:58:51 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 12 July, 2011, 02:56:46 pm
Funnily enough that very morning I had this (http://youtu.be/r7ER0TdcjFg) happen to me, which seems uncannily similar, bar the lower speed.  Same driver impatience, same lack of planning ahead for an approaching obstacle, and same 'k the cyclist pull left attitude.

I'm just lucky the driver telegraphed her intentions and that I was looking rearward to see that.


Oooh that's me, the cyclist in front.
So we both had a bit of commotion that morning Mike.

Yeah, for a moment I was worried she'd carry on accelerating and pass you also in the pinch point, hence the heads up.  Glad she chose to do a decent overtake on you though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 14 July, 2011, 07:43:58 am
Quote from: YahudaMoon on 13 July, 2011, 07:28:02 pm
On my way through Moss Side I caught up with two guys on matching mountain bikes in high viz jackets. We came to a junction with red lights  so I stop. One of the guys on the matching Marin MTB decides to go off roading on to the pavement for no apparent reason then back on the road ? His mate follows !

At this point I passed and said ' do you know it's illegal to cycle on the pavement ?'
He answered back 'Good point mate, it is illegal'. So I replied 'not setting a very good example are you ?'

Guess who they were ?

Wild guess?  Ermmmm,  undercover Excise Officers, ahhh Masons,  ahhh noooo they must have been members of the Constabulary?

Do I win a prize? :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 14 July, 2011, 09:39:22 am
To counterbalance that, I saw a group of plod at Clapham Common this morning.  'Oh no', I thought, 'Not another crackdown on cycling RLJs while ignoring motorised offences'.

But I was being uncharitable.  The team of two foot officers as advance warning, one motorbike for chasing, and two beside the road were actually operating a radar gun.  I managed a cheery smile, a thumbs up, and a call of 'Thank you!' as I passed.

Of course, the issue at that point isn't the speeding so much as the left hooking about 100m further on, but at least they are trying.

Aaaand, it is worth mentioning that the last two stops by Police I have seen beside the road have been motor vehicles - one a probably overloaded lorry near Walworth Road, the other a car full of Eastern Europeans.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 14 July, 2011, 09:49:54 am
Hit 28.9mph on a flat sprint down old street  ;D could of got more but  soon ran out of road........just wish there were lots of Carrefour banners all around the entrance to old street roundabout.......... ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 14 July, 2011, 11:33:37 am
Massively crowded junction (loads of cyclists) where Cedars Road feeds into Queenstown Road.
I was in primary position in the ASL and clocked a van drive right up to my back wheel.

When the lights changed the cyclists took ages to get sorted, they were three or four abreast down past the bus stop with no gaps to pull into and the van driver behind me was going ballistic, hooting, revving the engine. He finally pulled past me, yelling abuse through the window, then steered deliberatly across my path and into the kerb. He basically wanted me to stop for a fight, but I just shouted back and rode on. I was half expecting him to try it on again, but it seems he was making a delivery to one of the shops on the parade.

I'm guessing it was the bathroom display shop. I tried to phone them to find out which company it was, but they have a centralised exchange, so my chances of getting through to anyone in the shop to see which company might have delivered to them this morning are negligible.

For once, a helmet cam would have come in handy. Although I will need to wash my mouth out with soap before I replay the mental footage I have in my head!

Shaken, but not stirred!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 14 July, 2011, 11:46:41 am
Have some sympathy and a manly, biff on the shoulders, hug, alex

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 14 July, 2011, 11:52:00 am
Gah!  Far too common, and the perpetrators of that kind of crap just expect to be able to get away with it unchallenged. >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 14 July, 2011, 12:08:09 pm
While nothing excuses that kind of behaviour, the fact that you, as a competent and considerate cyclist, were not able to get into a safe position because of all the dicking about going on to your left illustrates, to me, one of the problems with ASLs. 

They encourage people to squeeze past each other and gather in a group in front of the motor traffic. Fine if they can all move away quickly and either ride at the same speed as the other traffic, or move across into a line, but what usually happens is that half the people who have come to the front are in the wrong gear / can't use their clipless pedals, etc etc, and the random mass lurches about in the road in front of the drivers.  I can understand why motorists get irritated by that.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 14 July, 2011, 12:16:39 pm
Not a problem at one of the ASLs this morning.  All eight bikes got away smartly and faster than the cars behind.  Almost as if they had an engine.

Oh, hold on.  They did.  I'm used to one or two, but Eight flipping PTWs blocking an ASL and leaving the cyclists stranded in the feeder lane like a row of lame ducks waiting to be left-hooked, was appalling.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 14 July, 2011, 12:19:07 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 14 July, 2011, 12:08:09 pm
While nothing excuses that kind of behaviour, the fact that you, as a competent and considerate cyclist, were not able to get into a safe position because of all the dicking about going on to your left illustrates, to me, one of the problems with ASLs. 

They encourage people to squeeze past each other and gather in a group in front of the motor traffic. Fine if they can all move away quickly and either ride at the same speed as the other traffic, or move across into a line, but what usually happens is that half the people who have come to the front are in the wrong gear / can't use their clipless pedals, etc etc, and the random mass lurches about in the road in front of the drivers.  I can understand why motorists get irritated by that.

I can see part of your point, but in actual fact Cedars Road has about 10-20 cyclists cross that junction every time the lights change. Far in excess of the number of cars that could cross even without the cyclists being present.
The other side of the junction has two side roads, parked cars, a bus stop, a slightly raised drain cover and a pelican crossing to negotiate, so we all pack into about 1.5 lanes until we passed that section and can then string out and get sorted.

It's not an issue of cyclists being incompetent, it's an issue of the far side of the junction being a very complex environment.
In practice, no car is inconvenienced for more than about a minute or so, when they are free to line up in the traffic jam whilst we sail past up the bus lane.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 14 July, 2011, 12:24:08 pm
I think your estimate of a minute of inconvenience by cyclists is wildly over the top for that section of road.  It will be seconds only before their inconvenience goes back to the default source of other motorists.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 14 July, 2011, 12:38:49 pm
Yeah. maybe I'm being over generous!

I did the maths for Blackfriars Bridge on another thread and was astonished to see that over 300 metres, being delayed to 20mph, rather than 30mph, costs the driver just 10 seconds.

So you are undoubtedly right. It's going to be 20-30 seconds at absolute maximum.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 14 July, 2011, 01:42:41 pm
Well, let's generously assume that the following motorist sticks to the limit.

If they are following a cyclist doing 20mph for a minute then they are being held up for a minute. They delay is that they have only covered 2/3 the distance (0.5 mile vs 1/3 mile) so it takes 20s longer to cover that distance. The perception is disconnected from the reality.

This ignores that they will join a queue anyway.

As for asls I saw a taxi pull up on the rhs of a cyclist waiting at a roundabout and turn left. This is why I'm always in primary there. Not sure an asl wd help - no lights there in any case.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ianrauk on 14 July, 2011, 03:32:03 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 14 July, 2011, 12:04:02 am
Quote from: ianrauk on 13 July, 2011, 04:58:51 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 12 July, 2011, 02:56:46 pm
Funnily enough that very morning I had this (http://youtu.be/r7ER0TdcjFg) happen to me, which seems uncannily similar, bar the lower speed.  Same driver impatience, same lack of planning ahead for an approaching obstacle, and same 'k the cyclist pull left attitude.

I'm just lucky the driver telegraphed her intentions and that I was looking rearward to see that.


Oooh that's me, the cyclist in front.
So we both had a bit of commotion that morning Mike.

Yeah, for a moment I was worried she'd carry on accelerating and pass you also in the pinch point, hence the heads up.  Glad she chose to do a decent overtake on you though.

I do that pinch point every day and as you see from the vid I learned a long time ago to move into the middle of the road there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 14 July, 2011, 03:48:22 pm
Same here, but she was next to me on the approach and just moved me over sideways.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 14 July, 2011, 06:59:23 pm
Good grief!  25kph average homeward? ???

It wasn't even a tailwind.  I just rode.  And loved it.  And how many of the car drivers I passed got one tenth the amount of fun from their journey?  It's wonderful to be a cyclist.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 14 July, 2011, 08:19:24 pm
I did 50km today in total by looping round to the east of Cambridge in glorious weather on the way home this evening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 15 July, 2011, 11:00:59 am
So, I crest the cycle bridge at 23kph having gone up it at 34kph (no mean feat) and as I go down the other side, a postie on his bike joins the bridge from the right taking the turn rather wide taking up the whole width of the cycle lane.  So I move a bit left to avoid him.  At this point, a female cyclist decides to join the bridge from the left, riding out without looking, directly into my path.  I'm coming down the hill and accelerating, and the postie is coming up the hill, and she's between the two of us.  So I end up with my back wheel in the air trying to stop.  She tries to say "oh sorry!" as we narrowly avoid a nasty accident, and I call her an idiot, and continue on my way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 15 July, 2011, 11:16:05 am
Left late, it was still a bit foggy.

Coat off in Taunton nice and sunny when I arrived at work
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: darkpoint on 15 July, 2011, 11:17:22 am
Nice ride in this morning,  i was working on my recovery riding so letting people pass me,  while focusing on technique and making sure i wasn't putting too much effort in..

There was an incident on the north side of Smithfields market, a scooter rider was down, so I was nearly called on to be a first aider two days running.
However the first aiders from the market had already responded and I could hear a siren,  so I kept out of the way.   Hope they are ok.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 15 July, 2011, 11:17:27 am
Lots of twattish activity around today - there's one young lady who is lucky to be alive and has the fast reactions of a VW Golf driver to thank for that. Changing lanes without signalling is one thing, if you know what's going on around you. Changing lanes without even looking over your shoulder, while wearing headphones, is pretty dumb.  That magic hat wouldn't have helped you if the car you lurched on front of had not slammed on his brakes so hard that the cyclist behind him (i.e. me) nearly piled in to the back!

The amazing thing was, I don't think she even noticed.  I came alongside the driver further up the road and commended him on his reactions.  He said that he was still feeling shaky because he was convinced he was going to hit her.

Further on, a guy with all the gear (head to toe Sky kit) blithely undertaking a bus that was signalling an impending left turn. Then another rider had to bunny hop sideways to avoid hitting a guy on a Brompton who simply stopped without any warning in the middle of a busy cycle lane in Tooley Street.  

Maybe it's just a Friday thing....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 15 July, 2011, 03:47:42 pm
Quote from: simonp on 15 July, 2011, 11:00:59 am
So, I crest the cycle bridge at 23kph having gone up it at 34kph (no mean feat) and as I go down the other side, a postie on his bike joins the bridge from the right taking the turn rather wide taking up the whole width of the cycle lane.  So I move a bit left to avoid him.  At this point, a female cyclist decides to join the bridge from the left, riding out without looking, directly into my path.  I'm coming down the hill and accelerating, and the postie is coming up the hill, and she's between the two of us.  So I end up with my back wheel in the air trying to stop.  She tries to say "oh sorry!" as we narrowly avoid a nasty accident, and I call her an idiot, and continue on my way.


Well - if you must ride around Cambridge...  ::-)  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 15 July, 2011, 04:15:02 pm
Quote from: SlowCoach on 15 July, 2011, 03:47:42 pm
Quote from: simonp on 15 July, 2011, 11:00:59 am
So, I crest the cycle bridge at 23kph having gone up it at 34kph (no mean feat) and as I go down the other side, a postie on his bike joins the bridge from the right taking the turn rather wide taking up the whole width of the cycle lane.  So I move a bit left to avoid him.  At this point, a female cyclist decides to join the bridge from the left, riding out without looking, directly into my path.  I'm coming down the hill and accelerating, and the postie is coming up the hill, and she's between the two of us.  So I end up with my back wheel in the air trying to stop.  She tries to say "oh sorry!" as we narrowly avoid a nasty accident, and I call her an idiot, and continue on my way.


Well - if you must ride around Cambridge...  ::-)  ::-)

My work and house are almost diametrically opposite sides of Cambridge, unfortunately.  It's not quite that bad, but I do have to go a fair way into town for the fastest route to work.

The cycle bridge is a PITA.  It's parallel to a road bridge which has a pavement on only one side, is fairly steep, and has a white line down the middle.  I can ride my Pompino up it at >20mph but this doesn't always prevent stupid overtakes.

It's a toss-up between the road and being assertive and the bridge.  The bridge is fairly narrow and the summit is a point rather than curved, all due to space restrictions to do with the railway.  To join the bridge heading into town you swing left at the junction at the bottom, take a right onto the pavement, and then go around a blind corner to start the climb.  With the lack of space you often find high speed oncoming cyclists coming down the bridge and cutting the corner.  Often there are very slow cyclists to contend with going up, and then going down the other side you get the sort of stuff I mentioned, and then are dumped back onto the road just before a roundabout, which is much worse for positioning than if you'd simply stayed on the road.

The reverse direction is just asinine; the intended operation is that you pull off the left at the bottom of the bridge and press a button to cross.  Then you join the bridge with little momentum having to make a right left turn from the crossing onto the bridge, then over the bridge.  You then cross the bridge, avoiding the hazards I already noted, and then this dumps you on the wrong side of the junction.  You then cross to the middle of the road using a toucan.  And then you cross to the other side of the road using a second toucan.  Leaving you with trying then to work out whether to press another button to be allowed to join the road (the toucan crossing doesn't protect you from traffic if you are making a right turn).

I reckon doing all this to the letter must cost about 3 minutes to travel 200 yards.  Obviously I just cycle over the road bridge, and put up with the aggro that sometimes occurs.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 15 July, 2011, 04:45:53 pm
You have my sympathies - I almost wonder if there aren't too many cyclists wobbling around Cambridge. From my extremely limited knowledge of the cycling facilities (usually limited to taking test rides of daughter's friends bikes after I've repaired them when I pick her up/drop her off at the start/end of term - there's usually a pile of them waiting for me) they often seem to be way overloaded. Cycling is almost too successful there. This contrasts remarkably to my home experience when it's not at all unusual for me not to see another cyclist on my commute. This morning, going in on a different route to usual, I passed a cyclist and gave her a cheery hello. Her surprised response was "I didn't know there were two cyclists in Durham".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 16 July, 2011, 12:27:32 am
Just over a week ago. I wasn't going to post it, because it felt so horrible. Maybe I still shouldn't.

Way in: moron overtakes me before turning left (A52 into Derby, Wyvern exit). It's close, but not so close I have to change speed/direction. As I carry on, he winds down his window (for he has joined a line of stationary traffic, making his overtake meaningless) and says something about my position on the road.

This is the internet, and I can make up whatever I like. So it's up to you, but I was about 1m from the kerb, as recomended by the IAM (the drivers thing, not the dog food).

Time didn't permit that level of debate, so he got the finger.

Way home, I got undertaken spectacularly. Approaching a right turn I let a white van pass me before indicating right and pulling out with plenty of notice. As I got to the turn, the car behind pulled up on my left and then cut across me, so that I had to turn right on the right of my approach: I ended up on the side road, but in the middle of it (the left hand side being occupied by the car to my left). He just didn't want to wait.

I was, and I still am very angry. Dark blue Golf: P462 ETO. I may yet report it, or karma might sort it out for me.

What really bothered me about this last was the fact that 1/2 mile earlier I'd had to file past a cyclist spread out on the road. I'm extrapolating from the scene, but it looked like he'd been sideswiped by a van towing a wide trailer on a narrow road. My searches of the local press reveal nothing, so I hope he hasn't died.

But the chances are that the c**t in the golf had passed this poor guy too, and still drove around me like a loon.

I will not forget the guy stretched out on the road, having the blankets laid around him, while some guy looked on uselessly, and I will not forget P462 ETO.

Worst commute in 20 years.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 16 July, 2011, 12:34:41 am
Quote from: Paul on 16 July, 2011, 12:27:32 am
Just over a week ago. I wasn't going to post it, because it felt so horrible. Maybe I still shouldn't.

Grim.

 >:(

Hope you manage to think about it less in due course.

I have been fortunate with undertakes on right turns but I've had two and both scared the shit out of me; both totally unexpected, wasn't able to guage the direction of approach by ear, and could well have moved left.

Arseholes.

I do hope the cyclist is not too badly hurt. 

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 16 July, 2011, 10:16:13 am
Friday was a fun ride on the TCR.  No HR Zone2 work either way.  It must be working though as I popped into my previous workplace and several people thought I looked thinner  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 16 July, 2011, 10:31:20 am
Dearest rider of the red Specialized road bike on Walworth Road. I have obvious sympathy that your bike doesn't work. I'm sure it's quite annoying that every time you attempt to pedal off your chain and sprockets refuse to enter into the usual mechanical agreement. However, feel free not to spread the annoyance by - at each every light (and this is Walworth Rd so they're always red) - pulling in front of the assembled cyclists and then as the light flips back to green repeating the slow, wobbly clack-clack-clack start.

That way, I won't have to get off, grab you, and stuff your fat stupid head into a nearby furious shark and tell it to munch.

And fix your frigging bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Titan yer Tummy on 16 July, 2011, 11:16:27 am
Quote from: ian on 16 July, 2011, 10:31:20 am
Dearest rider of the red Specialized road bike on Walworth Road. I have obvious sympathy that your bike doesn't work. I'm sure it's quite annoying that every time you attempt to pedal off your chain and sprockets refuse to enter into the usual mechanical agreement. However, feel free not to spread the annoyance by - at each every light (and this is Walworth Rd so they're always red) - pulling in front of the assembled cyclists and then as the light flips back to green repeating the slow, wobbly clack-clack-clack start.

That way, I won't have to get off, grab you, and stuff your fat stupid head into a nearby furious shark and tell it to munch.

And fix your frigging bike.


Good Lord. Are you sure this is really necessary?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 16 July, 2011, 04:26:08 pm
Quote from: Paul on 16 July, 2011, 12:27:32 am
Just over a week ago. I wasn't going to post it, because it felt so horrible. Maybe I still shouldn't.

Way in: moron overtakes me before turning left (A52 into Derby, Wyvern exit). It's close, but not so close I have to change speed/direction. As I carry on, he winds down his window (for he has joined a line of stationary traffic, making his overtake meaningless) and says something about my position on the road.

This is the internet, and I can make up whatever I like. So it's up to you, but I was about 1m from the kerb, as recomended by the IAM (the drivers thing, not the dog food).

Time didn't permit that level of debate, so he got the finger.

Way home, I got undertaken spectacularly. Approaching a right turn I let a white van pass me before indicating right and pulling out with plenty of notice. As I got to the turn, the car behind pulled up on my left and then cut across me, so that I had to turn right on the right of my approach: I ended up on the side road, but in the middle of it (the left hand side being occupied by the car to my left). He just didn't want to wait.

I was, and I still am very angry. Dark blue Golf: P462 ETO. I may yet report it, or karma might sort it out for me.

What really bothered me about this last was the fact that 1/2 mile earlier I'd had to file past a cyclist spread out on the road. I'm extrapolating from the scene, but it looked like he'd been sideswiped by a van towing a wide trailer on a narrow road. My searches of the local press reveal nothing, so I hope he hasn't died.

But the chances are that the c**t in the golf had passed this poor guy too, and still drove around me like a loon.

I will not forget the guy stretched out on the road, having the blankets laid around him, while some guy looked on uselessly, and I will not forget P462 ETO.

Worst commute in 20 years.

Just knobs in cars, being knobs. Sounds like that cyclist=must overtake thing. They probably do it to people in cars too. Impatient twats. ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dinamo on 17 July, 2011, 08:10:52 am
The storm clouds were gathering this morning as I left home, along the Avon ring road past the UWE, thru Southmead and up past Blaise Castle, and suddenly the heavens opened ! I managed to shelter under some trees during the worst of it, continued along Kingsweston Lane, up over the Avon bridge where another downpour occurred there was no shelter this time! Thanks to my Endura Stealth jacket for at least keeping my top half dry, the rest of my clothes are now drying ready for the journey home  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 17 July, 2011, 09:35:03 am
I am taking the car today.  I could ride as the Etape was fettled yesterday with new blue Gore Ride-on cables installed.  But as it is going to be a long day and I have a very early start in the morning and a long commute to my old office - and because it is pissing down now, I'm taking the easy option for a change.  Plus I can take this opportunity to take in clean uniform and bring home the grubby stuff.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 18 July, 2011, 10:00:29 am
That were a bit wet and windy . . .
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 July, 2011, 10:01:10 am
Riding through red lights on your Pearson does not make you faster, harder, or a better cyclist.

Your inability to stop appropriately, and your blocking of the pedestrian crossing just marks you out as a monumental arsehole.

But it was a good ride overall :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 18 July, 2011, 10:44:35 am
Very blowy this morning, nothing finer on a Monday.  I can foresee early onset Friday leg syndrome.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jamie on 18 July, 2011, 11:15:10 am
Quote from: Gandalf on 18 July, 2011, 10:44:35 am
Very blowy this morning, nothing finer on a Monday.
Tailwind for me, hoping it drops a little for the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 18 July, 2011, 11:24:15 am
Wet.
Absolutely. Sodding. Soaking. Wet.

Been up since around 4am because I just couldn't sleep - had to wait for the recovery people to come and tow the car to the garage at 8am, ride down to the garage to get car-related stuff underway, thence to work via the back roads and the racecourse.

Fortunately(!) my decision to wear sandals + overshoes on the grounds that skin dries out more quickly than fabric seems to have paid dividends.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 18 July, 2011, 11:45:35 am
Woke up this morning still feeling crap but not as crap as on sunday

Set off to work on the winter bike in drizzle.  But the drizzle stopped and soon I was on dry roads with a tailwind. 

Decided to sod the diet and treat the office to a danish from Tesco
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 18 July, 2011, 11:50:28 am
Audi tailed, hooted, then punishment passed me into a village (triggering the speeding sign). Car was parked at the village shop as I passed, so I waited. It was a little old lady. I asked her why she did it, which elicited a surprisingly forceful rant about cyclepaths, taxpayers money, and how stupid I was. I started to ask how she'd got as old as she was and still remained so selfish that 5 seconds of her time was more important than my life, but was interrupted by the lady in the shop coming out and accusing me of abusing the old lady. I was gobsmacked, and started to leave, but was so annoyed, I went back to the shop to speak to her.

To be fair, when I explained it, she was very apologetic, but it has really pissed me off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 July, 2011, 12:06:16 pm
People do make assumptions.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 18 July, 2011, 12:55:39 pm
Quote from: Gandalf on 18 July, 2011, 10:44:35 am
Very blowy this morning, nothing finer on a Monday.  I can foresee early onset Friday leg syndrome.
Is that why the leader of the Friday Night Rides wears a Legg bandage?
 :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 18 July, 2011, 04:58:13 pm
Quote from: rower40 on 18 July, 2011, 12:55:39 pm
Quote from: Gandalf on 18 July, 2011, 10:44:35 am
Very blowy this morning, nothing finer on a Monday.  I can foresee early onset Friday leg syndrome.
Is that why the leader of the Friday Night Rides wears a Legg bandage?
 :D

Very droll  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tigerrr on 18 July, 2011, 06:19:35 pm
Great ride in today - got involved in some argy bargy with an obstructive wobbly POB and then a sporty pursuit with plod but dropped them at the lights. Brill! Was sporting my new green helmet which seemed to excite them all a bit.  Anyway - showed them my backside which was a win.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mattc on 18 July, 2011, 06:53:12 pm
Quote from: Tigerrr on 18 July, 2011, 06:19:35 pm
Great ride in today - got involved in some argy bargy with an obstructive wobbly POB and then a sporty pursuit with plod but dropped them at the lights.

Chapeau! Silly sods, sticking to traffic law when there's a race to be won - not a backbone between them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: welshwheels on 18 July, 2011, 07:46:23 pm
nice tailwind on the in  :thumbsup: got blown about a bit on the way home !!! added an extra 15 miles on the way home 25 for today .
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 18 July, 2011, 08:04:08 pm
Headwind to work but dry.
Tailwind home but wet.  Both ways were great fun though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adam on 18 July, 2011, 09:42:09 pm
Timed my commute perfectly both ways.  Left at 07.30 just after the rain had stopped for a break, and rode in short sleeves and shorts, perfectly dry, and then the rain started about 20 minutes after I got to work. 

Then in the afternoon at 4 pm, a patch of blue sky appeared after a torrential downpour, so I set off and it stayed dry long enough to get home again, before starting up again.   ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 July, 2011, 09:57:23 pm
I left work just after the torrential rain stopped.  Up the Col de St Reatham because I had to get to Croydon.  Very odd indeed.  Not many cyclists even in Brixton, and I rode all the way from Brixton to the top of Streatham seeing (and passing ;) ) only two others.

Got to Croydon in good time, and did an extra loop before stopping to meet someone.  Just as I got off the bike, rain started bucketing down.  I rode home with rain bouncing right up all around me :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 18 July, 2011, 10:32:34 pm
On the commute today.... I learned that my new YACF winter jersey is a lot warmer than I expected  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dinamo on 19 July, 2011, 07:17:26 am
Quote from: Redlight on 18 July, 2011, 10:32:34 pm
On the commute today.... I learned that my new YACF winter jersey is a lot warmer than I expected  ;D

Mine was perfect for my early morning commute today  :thumbsup: 4:30 when I left and only 10 degrees C.
Hopefully the first 21kms of my July Metric Century Challenge ride !
This afternoon hoping to do 65kms then meeting mate in pub then final 16kms home  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 July, 2011, 09:15:55 am
Nice ride in this morning, though there were idiots on all sorts of transport everywhere.

I made a mistake, though.  There was roadworks on the A3, and I sailed through as the lights changed to amber, not anticipating that the pedestrians on the central refuge would step out to cross.  By the time I reached the other end, the lights were green the other way :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 19 July, 2011, 09:34:27 am
"Ha-ha!"

Dolph, from The Simpsons
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 July, 2011, 09:38:59 am
Yup.  I get it wrong sometimes.  Good thing it wasn't too marginal a situation. :-\

Of course, if I took a lead from some of the other riders along CS7, I'd have just barged on through the pedestrians... >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 19 July, 2011, 10:18:35 am
Two hours late leaving home today and I found out there are other cyclists on my route. Well I'm damned.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 19 July, 2011, 11:43:52 am
The ground was wet this morning but no rain during the ride in.  Went via my mother in laws, as I had to walk the dog for her.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 19 July, 2011, 01:08:02 pm
Accompanied Feline to the station then cycled to work.  Heavy legs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 19 July, 2011, 03:06:30 pm
Only one attempted homicide this morning, and one honourable mention.  I think the latter would have scored full marks had traffic been lighter, allowing him to make his last-minute turn.  Compared to yesterday, this is a magnificent improvement.  The really sad bit is that both yesterday and today I used secondary routes, back streets and CS3 (site of today's 'honourable mention').  I think I may go back to using the A13 and Barking Road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Otto on 19 July, 2011, 04:42:51 pm
Tried CS7 for the first time..... better that  Streatham and Brixton
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: welshwheels on 19 July, 2011, 06:49:38 pm
got overtaken by a ninja roadie this morning he was dressed in black and had no lights it was 5.15 am and raining I had lights on not really to see but more to be seen ! he got about 500 yards away from me and at my speed 15/16mph it was a struggle to see him at 60mph in a car at that time of morning he could quite easily have become another statistic !!! why do it ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 19 July, 2011, 07:50:59 pm
Bizarre. Pelting cats, dogs and sundry other small furry critters in the west, pretty much dry in the east.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 19 July, 2011, 08:13:01 pm
Uneventful going in.  No real wind either.
Coming home I dodged the rain, enjoyed the tailwind and picked up a Bench belt off the road for my son.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 19 July, 2011, 08:49:07 pm
Lovely luminous light on white cliffs was great to see after days of grey, although I could have done without sweary kids at the bus stop.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 July, 2011, 08:51:36 pm
Blood and sand that were a lot of motor vehicles!  Sarf Lahndan has turned into a car park, and there isn't the space to get between the dinosaurs. :(

Getting through Oval was a PITA.

I'm not sure how I'm going to convince the bike to head for Central London tomorrow morning.  I know it wants to head the other way.  So do I.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 19 July, 2011, 08:52:05 pm
Other than nearly being squashed by a bus, most of the evening commute was quite enjoyable.  This was in no small part down to meeting Phil near Tower Hill and sharing a fair chunk of the ride out east.  Thanks. :)  This is the first time I've done any significant portion of my commute with another rider.  Who would ever have guessed that one could commute at a conversational pace?  :o   ;D
 
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 July, 2011, 08:57:07 pm
That's nice.

I'm still trying to restrain myself from going out and punching the rain.

In the face.

Twice. >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Rimnod on 19 July, 2011, 09:47:50 pm
Left the office at 5 wearing sunglasses, by 10 past I has ploughing my way through flooded roads,  ankle deep in fast moving rain water. 

50 minutes of torrential rain, drivers who think they are funny by performing close passes so that cyclist get drowned in a dirty tidal wave of sewerage, mud and rain water or they are so mesmerised by the movement of their wiper blades they fail to see you at all.

The only redeeming moment was the nice lady in the 4x4 who slowed to tell me the road ahead was flooded.  No sh1t Sherlock.


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 July, 2011, 08:22:46 am
Blam!  That was a fast one :D

I left home at 0600, and the roads were relatively quiet.  So not much to hold me up.  The eight minute marker was reached in seven, and the (slightly generous) fifteen was hit with two minutes spare.

It got busier on the way in, and the traffic lights weren't terribly kind.  But by thirty minutes, I was past Tooting Broadway (worst case marker), the 10km point half way up the road, Tooting Bec, my target, Balham station, and Bedford Road junction.  Furthest I've ever managed now.

Only being caught by the full cycle of lights at both ends of Balham stopped me from achieving my ambitious aim of getting to Clapham Common within half an hour.  I was there within 31mins, though.

The rest of the ride is the faster part usually, but this morning, it was hard to keep the average up so high, let alone raise it.  I matched a full-on fast lad with carbon bike and no luggage into Stockwell at 40kph.  He was the only rider to pass me without passing a red light, and the only one not to get reeled in, which was pretty satisfying.

Very slight tailwind, according to the Met Office, which is surprising.

With a ride like that to start the day, even having to get the hoover out to do an hour's cleaning at work didn't take the shine off :)

</self-indulgent post>

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 20 July, 2011, 08:27:00 am
Rode in for nothing yesterday, my work was rained off.  Felt not good, tired and slow.   >:(

Some taxi guy shouted anchor out the window at me, I saw a silly cyclist do a mad bit of filtering, and a Harley rider told me I needed more lights on that thing because I'm so hard to see.  Yeah right, not only is my taillight higher than his, but both my lights are far brighter too, and on in the daytime.  "Do you have many invisible friends, and do you talk to them a lot?"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 20 July, 2011, 08:42:12 am
The standard of driving has risen from homicidal to just moronic.  Might have been helped by starting off a bit earlier.  Regardless, it was a much better commute.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 20 July, 2011, 09:23:50 am
Bonne temps pour canards

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 20 July, 2011, 11:04:02 am
I've taken to having a sit in Hyde Park for 5 minutes on my way, very civilised.  This morning a guy in All The Gear and a blingy new Planet-X Steal Carbon Pro TT (http://www.planet-x-bikes.co.uk/i/q/CBPXSPDURAC/planet-x-stealth-pro-carbon-dura-ace-elite-time-trial-bike) flashes past, pedalling like billy-oh. Then he goes back the other way. Thing is, his feet might have been going but on the "uphill" stretch he only just managed to overtake this girl on a Pashley with wicker basket :)

Ah, we all have to start somewhere.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 20 July, 2011, 06:11:05 pm
Do you know? I've just had one of those rare wind assisted morning and evening commutes on the same day. I'm feeling really strong today.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 20 July, 2011, 06:50:36 pm
Managed to avoid a deluge this evening (I didn't last night, and driving in it was unpleasant enough) but two things stood out:

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 20 July, 2011, 06:51:23 pm
Commute hasn't started yet.  Stuck at work with an IST problem.  Damn contractors are pants.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 20 July, 2011, 06:56:46 pm
Another wasted commute - I thought the rain would be gone, but it was too wet to teach so I turned around at Catford.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 July, 2011, 07:08:14 pm
Started in drizzle.  Rode through deluge.  Finished in no rain but on very wet roads.

Loads of rainbows on the asphalt. :-\

Stopped to help a chap at Stockwell.  He seemed to be looking for something in the gutter.  He thought something had fallen off, but, after a quick inspection of his bike, we decided it must have been something on the road.

I quite enjoyed the ride - especially after Mitcham Common, where I rode past a big long line of static motors.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 20 July, 2011, 08:05:02 pm
I think I participated in a Weather Event on the way home, involving water.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gerwinium on 20 July, 2011, 08:23:52 pm
I made it home just before The Deluge. I'm vaguely proud of doing the commute all week after DunRun on Sunday. It hurt a bit on the way in on Monday, but has generally been very successful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 20 July, 2011, 08:25:00 pm
Despite the disappointment of not working, I actually rather enjoyed that half commute.  Damp, but only enough to cool you down, and not enough to wet you.

Quote from: gerwinium on 20 July, 2011, 08:23:52 pm
I made it home just before The Deluge. I'm vaguely proud of doing the commute all week after DunRun on Sunday. It hurt a bit on the way in on Monday, but has generally been very successful.

Awesomeness!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 20 July, 2011, 08:38:34 pm
Oh, I forgot to mention I was very pleased and impressed to see a trainee getting level 3 and being ushered around the Catford Gyratory by her instructor.  Well done!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 20 July, 2011, 08:44:15 pm
Quote from: clarion on 20 July, 2011, 07:08:14 pm
Started in drizzle.  Rode through deluge.  Finished in no rain but on very wet roads.


it's several years since I got wet on the morning or evening commute ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 July, 2011, 09:03:53 pm
As you get older, it will become more likely ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 20 July, 2011, 09:15:43 pm
 ;D ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gerwinium on 20 July, 2011, 09:17:38 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 20 July, 2011, 08:38:34 pm
Oh, I forgot to mention I was very pleased and impressed to see a trainee getting level 3 and being ushered around the Catford Gyratory by her instructor.  Well done!

Bonus points for going through the McD drive-through and visiting Lidl on the way. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 20 July, 2011, 10:13:16 pm
I was able to cope with my brakes not playing nice in the rain, but the drivers have pushed me to the limit.  This may have been my last commute for a while.  I'm stressed enough without having to deal with motorised numpties.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 20 July, 2011, 10:40:46 pm
Fast ride home in anger after a shitty day at work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 21 July, 2011, 12:43:22 pm
Quote from: tonycollinet on 01 July, 2011, 01:00:15 pm
Is it the weather that unleashes the motons inner fuckwit?

I normally get 2 or 3 blind bend overtakes a week. This week they have been frequent - practically no-one wait to pass, regardless of the shape of the road ahead. This week there have been three "meet a car coming the other way" overtaking events resulting in much braking, honking of horns, and in one case the rear bumper of the overtaking car coming within 3 or 4 inches of my feet (out front 'cos a 'bent)

I seem to have managed to get this under control again, by taking primary (even at only 15mph, and on the trike) on the approaches to the relevant bends. Still get the odd tosser, but things are much better. I make a point of moving sharply back to secondary as soon as I can see it is safe to pass - which, I hope, lets following motorists know I am not being simply bloody minded. I also give a wave to anyone who has held back - but not until they've started passing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: chrisonabike on 21 July, 2011, 01:52:21 pm
Last night as I was riding through Richmond Park up the central ballet school road ( not open to general traffic and pretty much a shared use route) I was overtaken by a peloton of 3 screaming nigels in probike kit outfits and carbon bikes - not in itself a problem - i do also own a carbon bike - I was embarrassed though by their behaviour which was basically to bellow at other park users (kids on sjateboards, dog walkers, runners etc) who might dare impede the progress of their TTT. I felt like apologising as I approached and saying "im not with them".

i was also annoyed because I couldnt keep up wth the b**gers!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 21 July, 2011, 02:42:24 pm
Quote from: gerwinium on 20 July, 2011, 09:17:38 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 20 July, 2011, 08:38:34 pm
Oh, I forgot to mention I was very pleased and impressed to see a trainee getting level 3 and being ushered around the Catford Gyratory by her instructor.  Well done!

Bonus points for going through the McD drive-through and visiting Lidl on the way. :)

And extra bonus points for cycling illegally through the Catford Centre - which btw is going to be turned into a mahoosive Tescos (if Lewisham Council have their way)  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 21 July, 2011, 03:17:18 pm
??? I didn't see any illegal cycling here?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ERbdpba7OB4
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 21 July, 2011, 07:04:22 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 21 July, 2011, 03:17:18 pm
??? I didn't see any illegal cycling here?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ERbdpba7OB4

They are going to start putting up signs there saying 'cyclists will be prosecuted etc.' through the Catford Centre, we are trying to persuade them not to do this.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 21 July, 2011, 07:08:48 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 21 July, 2011, 07:04:22 pm
They are going to start putting up signs there saying 'cyclists will be prosecuted etc.' through the Catford Centre, we are trying to persuade them not to do this.

Really?  On the road bit we rode through there?  Surely they can't do that, it's normal public highway being the A21?  The other way through the bus lane, fair enough, although I thought they are going to allow cyclists through there again.

I'm not sure what the Catford Centre is, btw. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 22 July, 2011, 08:22:54 am
It has been an unnecessarily stressful week. I needed that ride to work today.  And it was good.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 22 July, 2011, 08:41:37 am
It has been a very stressful week here too - so I needed today off  ;D
I had a 94 mile commute yesterday from Wiltshire to Brigend.  I did consider riding but the laptop would have been cumbersome.  I also would not really have been presentable.  So I agreed to be a passenger in a lovely Audi instead.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 22 July, 2011, 09:23:49 am
Quote from: Grub on 22 July, 2011, 08:41:37 am
....in a lovely Audi instead....
Burn the heretic!!  :)

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 July, 2011, 09:28:29 am
Ridng through porridge this morning.  Not a bad speed overall in the end, but I did feel like I was being weighed down.  OK, I was carrying more than usual, but not that much.

Wheelrim strapped to the saddlebag had a positive effect on motorised overtakers :thumbsup:

Sorry to all the cyclists who wanted to squeeze past me & my Friday legs, but were prevented from doing so by an arc of Mavic metal.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 22 July, 2011, 09:43:37 am
Yesterday, passing Grimston Bar Park & Ride, I got the closest pass I've ever experienced.  From a concrete mixer lorry.  It was distinctly alarming and I may have sworn rather loudly, and actually had to pull over once I was past the lights so that I could remember how to breathe.

Today, in a freakish incident the like of which I have never before seen and expect to never be repeated, on the B1228 (a place usually of many many close passes and poor overtakes) I got an absolutely perfectly pleasant and sensible and wide and considerate overtake.  From a Streamline Taxi.

The world, I tell you, has gone mad.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 22 July, 2011, 10:26:35 am
Grrr!  >:(
Just before arriving at work this morning,
I clipped the curb and did a faceplant into the adjacent dry stone wall. Lots of blood from face cuts and bad wallrash on my chest.
Destroyed an old pair of Assos bibs, my new Audax England jersey, prescription sunglasses and two brake lever plastic hoods. Dripped blood all over the bike frame for the rest of the way to work.
Silver lining: Got a cup of coffee and chocolate as sympathy gifts from work mates!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 July, 2011, 10:32:05 am
Ouch!  Nasty.  Those stone walls don't yield much, do they?

I hope those workmates now realise how dangerous cycling is, and never go out on bikes :demon:

Hope you heal soon, and are back out pounding those quality miles. :)

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 22 July, 2011, 10:38:23 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 21 July, 2011, 07:04:22 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 21 July, 2011, 03:17:18 pm
??? I didn't see any illegal cycling here?


They are going to start putting up signs there saying 'cyclists will be prosecuted etc.' through the Catford Centre, we are trying to persuade them not to do this.

Unless, I am missing something, he didn't go through the Catford Centre. Isn't that the pedestrianised section with the Tesco and guarded by the Magnificent Catford Cat?

Another giant Tesco? Sigh.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 22 July, 2011, 10:49:22 am
Sorry to hear about this Pieter but glad that apart from the cuts and bruises you are OK. Stone walls can remove a lot of skin from hands that are put out to break a fall!

Quote from: pdm on 22 July, 2011, 10:26:35 am

Destroyed my new Audax England jersey,

Shall I make a note of a pre-order for the next run?  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 22 July, 2011, 11:04:03 am
On the way home yesterday afternoon.

The Campton turn on the A507 Shefford by-pass is a 40 zone (because of the junction). West-bound car doing 40. Car behind wanting to carry on at 70. Two-tonne metal box in middle of road indicating a right turn obviously invisible.

You can guess the rest   :hand:


Nobody badly hurt, thankfully.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 22 July, 2011, 11:11:59 am
Quote from: ian on 22 July, 2011, 10:38:23 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 21 July, 2011, 07:04:22 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 21 July, 2011, 03:17:18 pm
??? I didn't see any illegal cycling here?


They are going to start putting up signs there saying 'cyclists will be prosecuted etc.' through the Catford Centre, we are trying to persuade them not to do this.

Unless, I am missing something, he didn't go through the Catford Centre. Isn't that the pedestrianised section with the Tesco and guarded by the Magnificent Catford Cat?

Another giant Tesco? Sigh.

It was a joke about going through the Catford Centre guys. Mikey - its the one with the giant Cat on top of the roof! I have actually used it before as a sneaky detour to get to Catford Bridge.

They are literally Tesco-ing Lewisham. One is going opposite the Bingo Hall as we speak on the High Street and now further down on Rushey Green another one.

My mother-in-law has spent the last 10 years keeping Tescos out of Harrogate - maybe its time to start following her example.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 22 July, 2011, 11:37:41 am
blimey, pdm, that's a lot of damage to clothing for not a lot of damage to you.

How's the bike?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 July, 2011, 11:48:26 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 22 July, 2011, 11:37:41 am
blimey, pdm, that's a lot of damage to clothing for not a lot of damage to you.

pdm is made from a blend of 80% Voigt/20% Hoogerland
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 22 July, 2011, 11:52:26 am
Quote from: Redlight on 22 July, 2011, 10:49:22 am

Quote from: pdm on 22 July, 2011, 10:26:35 am

Destroyed my new Audax England jersey,

Shall I make a note of a pre-order for the next run?  ;)

Yes please! Definitely now need another SS jersey.

The Bib shorts were on their last legs - almost transparent with wear so no loss...

The other plus is that I usually wear blue scrubs at work which soak up and hide the blood oozing from the wall rash on chest quite well  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 22 July, 2011, 12:25:24 pm
There was a girl in floods of tears by the side of the road at Queenstown Road last night. She appeared to have come off at the left turn (going southbound) just past the railway bridge. She had two cyclists and at least one car stopped to talk to her.
Not quite sure what had happened. It's an easy place to get left hooked though. I'm always very wary of following traffic there.

This morning's ride in was horrid. No go at all.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tourist Tony on 22 July, 2011, 02:33:56 pm
Not a bad day, went to do the supermarket run, get to my turning, indicate right, move to crown, wait for traffic to clear.

"PARP!"

And another after I had pulled into the turning. Earlier, a car had stopped on the road, which is residential, dead straight, and  at that point 40mph. The driver had parked correctly, put on his hazard lights, and answered his phone. Nothing I can see wrong with that. Apparently, that was deserving of a torrent of abuse from other drivers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 22 July, 2011, 03:02:18 pm
On the way home yesterday, I rode 3 bikes in the space of 25 mins.

Work to LBS: Brompton.
LBS to home: Orange Bling
home to LBS: Trek Soho towing the trailer
LBS to home: Trek Soho towing the trailer with Brompton therein.

Oncoming cars give one a metric fuckametre of space when one is towing a demonstrably-snaking trailer.

Clipless FAIL this morning of a nonstandard type.

Stopped at red lights in ASL reservoir, foot sucessfully unclipped and on pavement.
Maroon fast-thing behind me (MR2, Celica, something like that)
Lights change to a proceed aspect, off we go, with me wanting to get a quick getaway so that the car behind me doesn't attempt to overtake while turning left.  Left foot refuses to clip in.  I push forward really hard, foot slips beyond pedal and fouls front mudguard, which folds triple and jams into front wheel.  Mudguard is now fouling the downtube, so I can't steer.  Fortunately the brakes still work, and, as the left foot is not yet clipped in, can support me as I fall left.

Fortunately no long-term damage.  Mudguard pulled back into place OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 22 July, 2011, 06:36:02 pm
29.1mph flat sprint down London wall (it's a road name) could have been more where it not for slow moving motorized traffic  :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gerwinium on 22 July, 2011, 09:00:23 pm
Snot was gone by the time I went home. I may or may not have consumed 3 1/2 pints of bitter as well...  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 25 July, 2011, 09:29:11 am
Sorry to say that I lost it this morning and shouted at another cyclist.  :-[

I was waiting at a set of lights when a woman on a hybrid with one of those skateboard helmets and a pair of headphones in came past me and stopped about three feet ahead, just to my right.  I'd overtaken her a couple of hundred yards back and I wasn't expecting her to move away from the lights at any great speed so I was focused on the gap in front of me. 

So, the lights change and I start moving only to have hybrid lady lurch forward, then sharply to the left, across my front wheel. I did a HARD stop and just managed to unclip the foot I had just clipped in.  Hybrid lady then drifts off unawares. 

I think she was still unaware of what she had done when I shouted at her - presumably the music was too loud. 

Am somewhat embarassed. At my age I should be more sanguine about these things.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 25 July, 2011, 09:31:23 am
If someone as awesome as you shouted at her in the heat of the moment, then I'm pretty sure you have nothing at all to feel bad about.  Not even slightly.  Her riding must have been astoundingly bad.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 July, 2011, 09:38:25 am
Decent commute.  Back on fixed.  Enjoyed it a lot, though I boloxed up one gear change :-[

In contrast with last week, there were a lot of fast and skilful riders about this morning, and very few numpties.  Quite the opposite of what we normally experience on sunny days.

Saw the one armed cyclist again today.  He was going pretty fast on his sunburst fade Roberts.  But I got a chance to look at his cockpit.  The right hand half of the bar is cut down a bit, basically past the point at which the brakes would clamp.  On the left, he has a brake lever with twin cables, a trigger shifter, and a thumbshifter mounted on a horizontal Minoura grip, so he can reach it to flick with his thumb (natch) without moving his hand off the grip.  Great ergonomics, and it's certainly effective.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 25 July, 2011, 09:51:04 am
Quote from: Wendy on 25 July, 2011, 09:31:23 am
If someone as awesome as you shouted at her in the heat of the moment, then I'm pretty sure you have nothing at all to feel bad about.  Not even slightly.  Her riding must have been astoundingly bad.

Exactly what Wendy said, Redlight. Sometimes we cannot be all zen, especially when there are numpties like her on the road.

The commute felt lovely this morning, probably because I pumped some more air into my front wheel  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 25 July, 2011, 02:17:01 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 25 July, 2011, 09:29:11 am
Sorry to say that I lost it this morning and shouted at another cyclist.  :-[

I was waiting at a set of lights when a woman on a hybrid with one of those skateboard helmets and a pair of headphones in came past me and stopped about three feet ahead, just to my right.  I'd overtaken her a couple of hundred yards back and I wasn't expecting her to move away from the lights at any great speed so I was focused on the gap in front of me. 

So, the lights change and I start moving only to have hybrid lady lurch forward, then sharply to the left, across my front wheel. I did a HARD stop and just managed to unclip the foot I had just clipped in.  Hybrid lady then drifts off unawares. 

I think she was still unaware of what she had done when I shouted at her - presumably the music was too loud. 

Am somewhat embarassed. At my age I should be more sanguine about these things.

I had a similar thing this morning.  Waiting at a red light, in primary because this is a spot where you always get squeezed.

Scooter pulls up on my inside.  When the lights change I'm quicker off the line than Mr hairdryer anyway, at least initially, till his wasp in a cocoa tin gets up to speed.

Most annoying and pointless, more so because my camera let me down again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 25 July, 2011, 03:53:29 pm
Quote from: clarion on 25 July, 2011, 09:38:25 am

Saw the one armed cyclist again today.  He was going pretty fast on his sunburst fade Roberts.  But I got a chance to look at his cockpit.  The right hand half of the bar is cut down a bit, basically past the point at which the brakes would clamp.  On the left, he has a brake lever with twin cables, a trigger shifter, and a thumbshifter mounted on a horizontal Minoura grip, so he can reach it to flick with his thumb (natch) without moving his hand off the grip.  Great ergonomics, and it's certainly effective.

One-armed upright cycling is rather tricker than the recumbent option.  Much respect.

Had a nice and relatively swift ride in, myself, although I'm not racing because while my left ankle is no longer tender, I can feel that it wouldn't respond well to the pace being forced.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 July, 2011, 03:58:36 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 25 July, 2011, 03:53:29 pm
One-armed upright cycling is rather tricker than the recumbent option.  Much respect.

Oh absolutely - and he was, as I say, pretty speedy.  It did occur to me that he must have some pretty impressive core strength too to hold his position.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 25 July, 2011, 04:05:27 pm
Strong handshake too, I bet :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 25 July, 2011, 06:17:59 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 25 July, 2011, 09:31:23 am
someone as awesome as you 

Do I detect a teeny bit of sarcasm here, Wendy? 
[and if so, no offence would be taken, after my rant this morning  ;)]
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: welshwheels on 25 July, 2011, 07:20:37 pm
quite fast  today considering I was on the mtb with semi chunky tyres on  :sick: holding 17mph on the road both ways  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 25 July, 2011, 07:25:46 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 25 July, 2011, 06:17:59 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 25 July, 2011, 09:31:23 am
someone as awesome as you 

Do I detect a teeny bit of sarcasm here, Wendy? 
[and if so, no offence would be taken, after my rant this morning  ;)]

No sarcasm, I was being genuine.   :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 July, 2011, 07:39:01 pm
Had a bit of extra time, so I took my part in the Etape d'Embankment.  It was pretty fast.  But I was passed by a smiling fellow on a hardtail Gary Fisher.  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 25 July, 2011, 08:01:04 pm
I passed a cyclist with an L Plate
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: redshift on 25 July, 2011, 10:54:59 pm
Quote from: Adrian on 25 July, 2011, 08:01:04 pm
I passed a cyclist with an L Plate

<trad. response>
Was it painful?
</trad.response>

 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 26 July, 2011, 09:38:37 am
Very fast in, today :)  Going over Battersea Bridge, I noticed the girl in front had her kickstand down, which could have been very nasty since she was riding through narrow gaps in the gutter.  I suspect it does that a lot, since she stowed it with a deft kick once I'd informed her.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 26 July, 2011, 12:02:10 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 26 July, 2011, 09:38:37 am
Very fast in, today :)  Going over Battersea Bridge, I noticed the girl in front had her kickstand down,
Am I the only one who misread that on first reading?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 26 July, 2011, 12:31:15 pm
You dirty old man :-O :-O :-O

Heh.

On the way home, last night, a middle-aged gent on a sporty-looking hybrid was eyeing up my bike at a junction.  When he caught up with me at the next lights, he did so even more blatantly and then said "So tell me, what do you do if you want to stop suddenly?".  I have no idea if this was a genuine enquiry, but I indicated my sole front brake.  "Ah, so, do you just skip it up at the back to stop it?".  I indicated the fixed transmission and said "Usually, I just push back on the pedals".  He didn't sound convinced, very much of the "back brake is the most important" persuasion.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 26 July, 2011, 12:32:09 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 25 July, 2011, 07:25:46 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 25 July, 2011, 06:17:59 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 25 July, 2011, 09:31:23 am
someone as awesome as you 

Do I detect a teeny bit of sarcasm here, Wendy? 
[and if so, no offence would be taken, after my rant this morning  ;)]

No sarcasm, I was being genuine.   :)



I feel honoured  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kevina9 on 26 July, 2011, 02:25:55 pm
First commute by bike in just over a year for various reasons (hols, working away, winter weather & doctor's orders following separated shoulder (12 wks rest) and recent appendectomy (4 wks)).

And it was my fastest ever commute :o despite me being relatively unfit and not having a tail wind. 

Maybe it's all about the bike : last year Thorn Raven Tour; today new Van Nicholas Amazon with Alfine 8 that I built up recently from bits to keep me occupied at home whilst off work.

So far it looks like time well spent.  I LIKE my new bike!  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 26 July, 2011, 04:06:26 pm
Got called in to work on my day off. I didn't mind as I found myself looking forward to the extra commutes! Despite having to head in at the height of rush hour, traffic was generally flowing easily through south London which led to a nice even paced ride. Being less frenetic it led to greater opportunity to acknowledge other riders. However, as my journey progressed the arrant two wheeled twatishness became breathtaking.

Passing the mouth of a junction within six inches of the giveway markings is just generally ill advised, at over twice the speed limit it's sheer stupidity and on the wrong side of the road I contend that it is the mark of an utter cretin. As the motorcyclist that did this ahead of me this morning had also just overtaken me and the following car by passing through the cycle by-pass of the College Road toll booth on the wrong side of the road and was riding in the above manner in order to slalom through the drainage channels at each end of the sleeping policemen I'm content that my assessment is correct. I don't think he was even aware of the car that emerged from the side road a couple of seconds after he passed.

Later I found a scooterist hard on my left shoulder standing his machine on its nose in order to avoid running straight into the back of another cyclist. As the road had widened to accommodate a bus lane I had moved left to take up primary in that inside lane (not open to PTW). Primary, principally to give me space to pass the slower cyclist ahead - the cyclist that obviously must have been obscured from the scooter rider's vision as he swept from right to left to undertake me.

From Elephant and Castle onwards the riding of PTWs was poor, but no more so than general riding and driving usually is around there. The greater hazard was posed by other cyclists and what seemed to be their pressing need to get in front at all costs. And the fact is that now, with so many cyclists there is always someone to get ahead of.
There was one guy that I just couldn't find my way away from, who felt that every slowing cyclist was an opportunity to make up a place, despite the fact that generally every time a cyclist slowed it would be due to a hazard ahead. This led to him jinking through groups and cutting across wheels and most irritatingly, riding off the shoulder of other cyclists ready to pounce at their next requirement to change speed or direction. He at least possessed a smidgeon of finesse, well at least compared to the rider that just ploughed, elbows out, through groups of cyclists that he found in his path. A well spoken man pulled up in this guy's wake and said "Yes, he almost just hit me and this lass here!" I can't help feeling that things would be better if only more people thought of those around them as travelling companions, as lasses and fellows with a common purpose and bond.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Zipperhead on 26 July, 2011, 05:20:55 pm
Last night on the way home I stopped in an ASL. I roughly in the middle of 3 lanes. The left hand lane turns left and the other two go straight on (where I was going).

A few other cyclists pull up on my left. Then a motorcycle stops on my right, almost level with me. I glanced at it and saw that the left hand indicator was flashing. I wonder if he means that? So I lifted my gaze to il piloti, and despite me staring though shades he must have sensed my consternation because he pushed it backwards until he was well behind me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 27 July, 2011, 12:06:58 am
LOL, you are the Daddy, Zipperhead!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 27 July, 2011, 07:32:39 am
Can you work your magic stare of consternation on Stagecoach and SelKent buses as well?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 27 July, 2011, 10:10:55 am
Back on the bike again after a couple of days off

Loverly morning.  Had to walk the mother-in-laws dog.  Took a back lane to get on the right road to work.  Caught some racehorses but I turned off and they went straight on

Roads quiet, no delays at roundabouts

Overtook dozens of people cycling in central Taunton
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 27 July, 2011, 10:23:37 am
I laughed yesterday, but I feel slightly bad about it.  A young lady was doing a wibbly wobbly not-trackstand, and went through about half the junction and across the stop line in slow motion without putting a foot down until the light changed.  She had the good grace to laugh with me too.   :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 July, 2011, 11:14:11 am
I went through a red light last night :-[

I was behind a bus at the traffic lights in a bus gate, and I couldn't see the lights.  But the bus moved off, and I followed it, only realising too late that the light had changed back to red.  Unless the bus driver waited a long time before moving off (and, from the movement of the cross traffic, I don't think he did), that was a ridiculously short green cycle, if even one bus can't get through.

Nonetheless, I was wrong. :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 27 July, 2011, 01:27:19 pm
Yesterday:  Finally got back on the back on the bike after a rough few days on the road last week.  The bike was in good fettle, the weather was clement, and the idiocy level of the drivers was fairly low (for London).  I enjoyed the commute so much that I even did my Isle of Dogs detour on the way home. :)

My spirits were lowered somewhat when I realised there was a cyclist down at this roundabout (http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=uk&geocode=&q=Westferry+Circus,+Poplar&aq=1&sll=53.800651,-4.064941&sspn=12.344606,44.604492&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Westferry+Circus,+London+E14,+%D0%92%D0%B5%D0%BB%D0%B8%D0%BA%D0%BE%D0%B1%D1%80%D0%B8%D1%82%D0%B0%D0%BD%D1%96%D1%8F&ll=51.503701,-0.025159&spn=0.001586,0.005445&z=18&layer=c&cbll=51.504114,-0.025515&panoid=ibYZHKopeBDjn0wg4rKeyQ&cbp=12,167.77,,0,0).  I first spotted someone from Canary Wharf Police Security standing holding a bicycle, then spotted, a few feet away, a cyclist.  He was sitting up and appeared to be talking to the people around him.  Nothing for me to add so I carried on. 

I really dislike that roundabout.  The surface is horrible and if you're coming from the north you have traffic merging from upper & lower Westferry Circuses.  To top it off, there's that ludicrous traffic light tree.  I really am surprised there aren't more accidents there.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 July, 2011, 01:36:12 pm
dreadful junction.  Glad the cyclist down wasn't worse.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Frere on 27 July, 2011, 01:51:09 pm
Commuted by bike first time this morning, such a novelty. Was forced to it sooner than planned as best bike is with mechanic for putting on disc brakes today, the BET is waiting to be re spaced and built up. Forced by this fire at a tunnel on the M4 in south Wales near Newport yesterday, couldn't bear driving yet again and be sat in diversions.

Took the Orbit expedition bike, rode from Clifton to Bristol Parkway. Pannier fell off, doh, now properly attached. Bike on train to Cardiff, negotiated Cardiff city centre ok. A tandem was parked next to door in designated compartment on train. Cue other cyclists trying to deposit and take off thier bikes. Orbit expedition not the lightest but by gosh very comfortable in a stately manner. 

Traffic fine and route fine apart from a dodgy junction, end of Filton Avenue iirc where it connects with a main road leading to the huge roundabout by the MOD procurement agency. Sun was shining btw.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 27 July, 2011, 01:57:51 pm
Did the long morning route (26km) for the first time in a while today. I'm a bit out of shape at the moment so took about 3 minutes longer than my average time for the route.

And missed my train by about 2 minutes.  :facepalm:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Titan yer Tummy on 27 July, 2011, 02:32:19 pm
Quote from: clarion on 27 July, 2011, 11:14:11 am
I went through a red light last night :-[

I was behind a bus at the traffic lights in a bus gate, and I couldn't see the lights.  But the bus moved off, and I followed it, only realising too late that the light had changed back to red.  Unless the bus driver waited a long time before moving off (and, from the movement of the cross traffic, I don't think he did), that was a ridiculously short green cycle, if even one bus can't get through.

Nonetheless, I was wrong. :-[

If the ATS are not functioning correctly you have a defence in law. It would be up to the prosecutor to prove they were functioning properly. Often easier said than done.

TyT
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 27 July, 2011, 04:28:27 pm
I misbehaved on Monday.... new second-hand hybrid with wide handlebars, I clipped a car's rear-mirror while filtering to Traffic Light....
The driver was seriously upset. I apologised profusely for my careless riding and asked him if his car was ok.
The mirror had rotated forward (a safety feature) and he did put in back in place, no mark of the impact on the rim of the mirror. Driver insisted I had damaged his car, pointing at tiny white wear marks around the axis of the mirror.... I checked his other mirror which had the same wear marks....
The chap was adamant nonetheless that I had damaged his car, wanted my address, asked me if I had car insurance (silly because it would not cover my cycling activities).... told him  I had legal insurance from the CTC....
He then decided that 'he could not be bothered' and gave up on me.... and recomended me to cycle on the pavement from now on!
I felt   :sick: ... surely he had reasons to be upset, but it felt like he wanted to make some ludicrous claim for damage against me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Frere on 27 July, 2011, 06:21:08 pm
Commute back up was fine, except that had to shout 3 times at a ped who was chatting away on a phone while walking all over the cycle marked half of a path. Had to brake and yell at her before she jumped 4 foot high, saying 'I'm sorry' more to the other end on her phone than to me :p

Seriously, these peds, have lost count the many many times they cross the road and walk all over paths utterly oblivious to all except their permanently attached devices.

Frere
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Zipperhead on 27 July, 2011, 09:37:49 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 27 July, 2011, 12:06:58 am
LOL, you are the Daddy, Zipperhead!!!

Hmm, well, you know the old saying involving pride & fall?

This morning was nearly the fall...

I came up to a red light where there was a car stopped. As I rolled up behind it the lights changed, so I didn't unclip, expecting the car to move off. It didn't, I thought it was a bit slow because of the bicycle in front of it. No problem, Then I noticed that it was a driving school car, with two people in the front and L plates. Shit, unclip and get a foot down just before I fell off. The car pulled away about 5 seconds later :-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 27 July, 2011, 10:57:45 pm
Now I've seen your glasses, I know why that motorcyclist backed off.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 27 July, 2011, 11:09:18 pm
Quote from: clarion on 27 July, 2011, 11:14:11 am
I went through a red light last night :-[

I went through a red light today. Although the bus was behind me. If I'd stopped behind the line I would have had an awful lot of the bus on top of me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 28 July, 2011, 10:17:54 am
That was wierd.

I slept in. Rushed out to get on bike. Flat tyre.

Shuffle bikes around and pull out the mercian. Swap Bagman from Ribble to Mercian.

Set off - and realise it is very foggy. 1 mile down the road and I think I'd better put on front as well as rear lights - front light is dead. Pull over in copmanthorpe to get out batteries - nope, none in bag.

So set off down A64 feeling a tad nervous.  8 miles later and I'm being roasted under a clear blue sky.

York has been taken over by teh FoG.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 28 July, 2011, 11:32:50 am
This morning, I was cycling along with Butterfly when an oncoming truck moved onto our side of the road.  He then turned so that he was diagonally across the road. 

We slowed.

Another cyclist didn't.  Not even when the reversing lights came on and the audible warning started.  He just dashed through the tiny gap.  Not much chance of the driver seeing him.  But the driver did see, and stopped in time.

Astonishing behaviour from a complete dickhead cyclist. >:(  I hope the truck driver had noticed that we were waiting, and we're not all wankers.

Of course, the dickhead crashed through a red light straight after. ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 28 July, 2011, 11:44:56 am
I usually ride over the level crossing at Mitcham Eastfields station.  On the approach from the North, the road is a bit narrow for an overtake, often with queueing traffic coming the other way.  The road narrows abruptly for no damn good reason at one point, then there is a pair of right angle bends.

Of course, given all these hazards, a lot of drivers just have to shove past - often having to stop sharply in the face of oncoming traffic or the back of the queue of traffic in front.  And then we ride past the offending driver as we overtake to get to the front of the queue - to wait for the barrier & ride across, dismount & walk across, or else carry the bike over the bridge.

A couple of days ago, I was conscious that I had a red van behind me as I rode up.  I was in secondary, but there was no room to pass.  However, as we approached the bend, he used a gap in the oncoming traffic to come round me, pulling sharply back in to the apex of the bend and removing my line completely because he met a car coming the other way.

I noticed it was a Royal Mail van, so I took the time to explain that his overtake was too close, and offer as a guide that, if he didn't cross a white line to make an overtaking manoeuvre it would always be too close.  It was a fairly amicable discussion.  Some of his comments were interesting.

'It's a wide bit of road'

'I don't think it was too close'

'I didn't hit you, did I?'

'I saw you were riding a bit far out'

'I don't need the advice'

'I've been driving for fifteen years'

'If you'd been further out, I wouldn't have been able to pass you and stayed behind'

And it was this last one which is the most true.  I had felt intimidated, and didn't want to give the impression I was blocking the road to be awkward, so I'd kept to secondary to make it less confrontational.  But I would have been much better in primary.

Of course, even after our long conversation, I still managed to ride off ahead of him.  So the overtake was utterly pointless after all.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 28 July, 2011, 01:45:16 pm
Approaching a roundabout on the way in, I had a WVM just ahead of me peep his horn in a staccato burst, just to be sure that I'd seen that he was turning left, while also leaving room in case I hadn't.  Considerate.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 28 July, 2011, 01:57:08 pm
Did invisible tri bars for most of the last 22km of my commute. Still 90s over my PB, but 28.6km in 56m24s was a YTD PB. Was blessed by mostly clear junctions, no red lights, no closed train crossings, and fewer bimblers than normal on the cycle path. My commute is /__\ shaped on a map, so a gentle breeze is best, and today was ~13kph, so pretty normal. I'm putting it down to a combo of invisible tri bars and only doing half my normal distance yesterday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 28 July, 2011, 05:57:03 pm
Quote from: clarion on 28 July, 2011, 11:44:56 am
I usually ride over the level crossing at Mitcham Eastfields station.  On the approach from the North, the road is a bit narrow for an overtake, often with queueing traffic coming the other way.  The road narrows abruptly for no damn good reason at one point, then there is a pair of right angle bends.

For the life of me I can't work out how we never meet and how our paths never cross!
We share great chunks of our commute, so I can only conclude I set off much later than you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 28 July, 2011, 07:56:04 pm
Decided to leave early and take a trip to the LBS.  Couple of delays meant I was gonna only get there 5 mins to 6, but open to 6 says the website.  Roll up to find the shop closed.  It was 5 to 6.  BAH.  OK, I’ll order the thing I need online then.

So off I went again, grabbed a couple of bottles of Lucozade Sport in Bottisham as I was a bit thirsty, sank one and held on to the other.  Out to Swaffham Bulbeck, right towards Dullingham, left onto the A1303, down to the A1303/A1304 roundabout, turn right towards Stetchworth, then right to Dullingham, arrive at Dullingham Station literally as the man is closing the gates at the level crossing.  Decide to take the opporchancity… opportunity to drink the second bottle of Lucozade.  Man apologised for delaying me when he re-opened the gates and I assured him I wasn’t really that bothered.  It was lovely weather to be stopped having a break.  Off again and back up to the A1304, down to 6 Mile Bottom, race up the hill at 34kph (last night I could only do it at 24kph) and on through Fulbourn, almost doing a stoppie avoiding T-boning and idiot driver (words were said) and then past the asylum (regularly tempted to check in) and home.  27.7kph for about 48km, on 67”.  I should probably gear up again for now as I’m sure I can go faster around here on 71”.

I’m thinking PBP’s going to be OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 28 July, 2011, 08:05:48 pm
Swift ride home which was nice.  But there are several large sets of roadworks on my route, one of which is going to cause me a real headache tomorrow :(

Quote from: alexb on 28 July, 2011, 05:57:03 pm
Quote from: clarion on 28 July, 2011, 11:44:56 am
I usually ride over the level crossing at Mitcham Eastfields station.  On the approach from the North, the road is a bit narrow for an overtake, often with queueing traffic coming the other way.  The road narrows abruptly for no damn good reason at one point, then there is a pair of right angle bends.

For the life of me I can't work out how we never meet and how our paths never cross!
We share great chunks of our commute, so I can only conclude I set off much later than you.

I usually set off from home about 0730, reaching Tooting Bec about 0800.  About half of my commute is up CS7.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 28 July, 2011, 09:03:23 pm
My commute home turned into a sort of TdF reenactment:
On elm grove someone was holding my wheel, weaving about a bit, but never actually coming past. They left the road before the top.
Coming past the racecourse I was passed by some chap in yellow. He was obviously doing the Paris stage as he came back the other way a couple of minutes later. I was home after the cutoff and lost 20 points for missing bedtime.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 28 July, 2011, 09:17:54 pm
I forgot to mention that I had someone hanging on to my rear wheel as we zoomed from the roadworks along the road, to the right turn and along.

He pulled past and said 'Thanks mate' before turning off.  I didn't really mind that he didn't take a turn, cause I was having fun.  His thanks may have been for my call of 'Door!' as an idiot flung one open just ahead of us, causing a swift jink.  Or maybe the way I stepped it up 5kph when a bus tried pulling out without warning just as we were committed to pass...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 28 July, 2011, 10:10:30 pm
I was enjoying my ride home until I turned onto A4119 "Llantrisant Road" by the Castell Mynach pub.  The Council or whoever have top dressed the road.  A very poor job. They obviously used a tracked vehicle to spread the chippings.  So I now have a two killometre rumble strip kicking my wheel sideways on a loose surface.  Needless to say the cars ignored the 10mph signs. Not fun.  After I passed Groes Faen I enjoyed the rest of my ride home.  Not looking forward to the middle of tomorrows commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 28 July, 2011, 11:13:03 pm
31.4kph over 28.5km, taking 31secs off my PB that has stood since September last year. Invisible tri bars FTW. First time >31kph on that route.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 28 July, 2011, 11:31:16 pm
Quote from: DrMekon on 28 July, 2011, 11:13:03 pm
31.4kph over 28.5km, taking 31secs off my PB that has stood since September last year. Invisible tri bars FTW. First time >31kph on that route.

You wait until you try it with 2kg of kiddie and kiddie seat on the back  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 29 July, 2011, 12:09:19 am
ITYM 20kg kiddie + seat....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 29 July, 2011, 09:25:43 am
Going home last night, halfway round a big roundabout in busy traffic, my chain snapped.

The roundabout centre was closely cut grass, so I pulled over onto that to sort it out. Just got tools out when a car stops, on the roundabout, flashers on "Need a lift, put your bike in the back." I declined, as it was very unlikely they'd be going all the way to york, and that would mean repairing chain anyway.

How nice can people be?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 29 July, 2011, 11:09:34 am
Told off a RLJer yesterday, whilst wearing London Dynamo kit.  (No, I'm not a member).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 29 July, 2011, 11:18:55 am
Quote from: Wendy on 29 July, 2011, 11:09:34 am
Told off a RLJer yesterday, whilst wearing London Dynamo kit.  (No, I'm not a member).

What a shame. Especially as they run a campaign to reduce the number of RLJ-ers too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 29 July, 2011, 11:23:57 am
Ah, sorry for causing confusion.  The RLJer wasn't wearing Dynamo kit, else I'd have passed the video onto their membership secretary already.  I was wearing it, and not jumping the lights.  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 29 July, 2011, 11:41:56 am
That did confuse me for a moment until I worked it out ;D

Good work!  LD needs its sensible members/supporters to be more visible.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 29 July, 2011, 12:01:38 pm
Anyway, I thought it would give you guys a chuckle.   ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 29 July, 2011, 12:42:49 pm
I smiled at a pretty girl on a Boris Bike whikle wearing an Audax England jersey  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 29 July, 2011, 12:44:53 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 29 July, 2011, 12:01:38 pm
Anyway, I thought it would give you guys a chuckle.   ;D

Ah got it Wendy, sorry if I am being slow on the uptake  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mikeluke on 30 July, 2011, 10:00:11 pm
Crashed into a girl on a BSO who snuck round a corner straight into my path on a shared use bicycle / pedestrian path. Front wheel of new Dahon Mu Uno bent :( Frankly it's 20 spoke construction never inspired confidence so I've shelled out for a 28 spoke replacement. No injuries thank goodness. I actually feel safer on the road than on this "traffic-free" shared use area now :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 01 August, 2011, 11:48:00 am
First commute for ages, I've managed to avoid going into the Hammersmith quite successfully  :)
There were lots of roadworks and sections of road with loose chippings, which slowed things down. Approaching the big roundabout by Tesco in Camberley on the A30 one lane was closed off for roadworks and the other was stationary traffic. As there was nothing happening in the coned off section I nipped into it. Towards the end a roadworks vehicle was starting to pull into the coned off section so I stopped and looked to rejoin the queuing traffic. His mate (who'd moved the cones to let him in) told the truck to stop and waved me past  :thumbsup:

Approaching Hammersmith I did get a bit of a scare with a horrible squeal of brakes behind as I was waiting at a red light. Turned out it was just a cyclist with noisy brakes  :)

So, about as good as a 40 mile ride into London gets - decent weather, reasonable legs for it and no numpty driving or cyclists. Hope the return is just as nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 01 August, 2011, 01:00:52 pm
I had a mini commute on Friday because I wanted to get home quickly avoiding the top dressing on the A4119 I mentioned in my last post.  So I only cycled as far as Pencoed station then cycles from Radyr station.  I regretted it I should have taken an alternative route on the bike.  I thought about that as soon as I paid for the train ticket.

Today the surface is not too bad.  I ride about 30cm further out than usual to avoid the loose stuff.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 01 August, 2011, 01:02:54 pm
I took it easy. Seemed to flow today. Not much traffic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 01 August, 2011, 01:13:10 pm
Two utter pillocks in quick succession this morning.  First one was a WVM overtaking at a pinch point, extra points for having a trailer to compound my terror.

Second one was a boy racer in a VW Golf.  Skimmed me at well over the limit, when I sounded my Airzound he responded by giving me the finger as he sped off.

I consoled myself with the knowledge that it was all captured on camera and that I would be reporting him to Roadsafe.  I was inwardly reciting Bricktop's 'Nemesis' speech from Snatched.

Imagine my unalloyed delight to find that my camera had failed yet a bloody gain.  :demon:

Just ordered a Veho Muvi as it's all I can afford at the mo.  I will be keeping a a very watchful eye on the warranty period.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 01 August, 2011, 01:19:30 pm
Faster commute in today as I left around 9a.m. and the roads were very clear indeed.

I keep noticing that along the Grosvenor Road/Chelsea Embnkament (in both directions) that when cars are moving from a two-lane junction into a singular lane or when CS8 suddenly springs up that they are just reluctant to revert to being one lane traffic. I normally have to religiously peer behind me at some of the idiots who quickly want to pull past and on at least 12 occasions they have had to brake sharply to pull up behind the other driver.

Also on Saturday commutes CS8 turns into a special lane for Addison Lee and other private-hire cars  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 August, 2011, 02:19:05 pm
A nice ride in this morning, and not just because of the company.  I wasn't sure my legs would like being on fixed, but it went awfully well, and I reeled in a lot of RLJers.  Reached 40km on the flat, which isn't very common for me.

This evening, I don't need to race home at all, so I can noodle about until it's time to call for Butterfly and ride home together :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 01 August, 2011, 03:47:08 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 01 August, 2011, 01:19:30 pm


Also on Saturday commutes CS8 turns into a special lane for Addison Lee and other private-hire cars  :demon:

It's probably about the only place in London that Addison Lee's drivers can find without a Sat Nav
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 01 August, 2011, 08:06:19 pm
That was quite warm coming home!

I caught up with a cyclist wearing a magic hat (not a light, uber ventilated one), a fluorescent full rain jacket (like an Altura Night Vision) and wearing a rucksack. I thought he must be seriously hot, then I found his secret - he relied upon air cooling from moving. I can only imagine that it was his desire not to spontaneously combust that led him to refuse to stop for any reason, such as red traffic lights.

And another numpty cyclist - I was riding on a narrow cycle path down Hammersmith Road, and came up to a car pulling out of a side street on the left, turned left. She had pulled across the cycle lane, and was waiting for the stationary traffic to move to merge in. She had been there well before I turned up, so I just stopped to wait for her to move on. A cyclist undertook me, then weaved across the front of her car just as she started to pull out. He was very lucky that she was paying attention, she could easily have just seen the car to her left start to move and pulled out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Titan yer Tummy on 01 August, 2011, 09:07:46 pm
Quote from: MattH on 01 August, 2011, 08:06:19 pm
....... another numpty cyclist - I was riding on a narrow cycle path down Hammersmith Road, and came up to a car pulling out of a side street on the left, turned left. She had pulled across the cycle lane, and was waiting for the stationary traffic to move to merge in. She had been there well before I turned up, so I just stopped to wait for her to move on. A cyclist undertook me, then weaved across the front of her car just as she started to pull out. He was very lucky that she was paying attention, she could easily have just seen the car to her left start to move and pulled out.

Most of us are still alive because of our cycling skills; some are still here in spite of them!

TyT
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 August, 2011, 10:21:11 pm
At Clapham Junction, I saw a cyclist make her way with difficulty between a bus and the kerb.  That'd be the kerb of the bus stop, mind.  Fortunately, most of the passengers had made their progress in & out before she got there, but one old woman stepped down a moment after the idiot had passed. >:(

I was saddened that, when Butterfly and I stopped for a chap on a crossing, he hesitated until we had completely come to a stop before stepping out.  He commented, 'I don't expect cyclists to stop.  You're proper cyclists.'  It was a nice compliment, but what a sad indictment.  Of course, I have counted, and there are as many motorised infractions as cycling ones on a commute, but I wouldn't mind being able to feel I was part of a group which were better than the average fuckwit behind the wheel in London :(

But it was a cracking ride home.  I popped over the river and along Embankment, taking the Stage and the green jersey ;) before heading over Chelsea Bridge and into Battersea Park for a few laps before meeting Butterfly.

Except I didn't get the laps in, but I did do something I feel might me more valuable in the long term.

As I got half way round the first time, I spotted a chap with his bike upside down.  I was already slowing when he asked if he could borrow a pump.  Of course he could.  The poor guy had a flat tyre, no spare, no repair kit, and a need to get home to Earls Court.  So I sat down, got his tyre off and explained how to find & fix a puncture (though I couldn't find the hole :-[ ).  As it was, at worst, a slow puncture, I reassembled the wheel, noticing that it was a Deore XT hub and XT brakes, and the bike was a pretty high-end 80s ATB.

I also showed the poor chap how his (pretty nice) Specialized mini-pump could be converted to fit the Schraeder valves, and sent him away with a short shopping list, this web address, air in his tyres and best wishes.  I hope he got the kit, remembered what I'd told him (shit, I hope I hadn't come across as patronising :-[ ), and got himself sorted.

Then, as I was leaving the park by the SW gate, I overheard a lad with a BSO sad that his chain had dropped off the inside.  His dad didn't have much of a clue.  The bike was a bit big for the lad, the tyres needed some air, but weren't flat, so probably didn't have a puncture, the front brake was missing, and the chain was very rusty.  But the lad was having fun.  His dad explained that someone had dumped it.  Maybe that's true - maybe not, but it was a bike no one had used for a while, and here was a lad having fun riding.  I told him about the Carlton in the cellar which had got me into cycling, then left the park with a warm glow.

I didn't have much time to spare by then, so I got over to meet Butterfly, who was ready to ride.  We went up to Clapham Common, though it was the wrong direction.  We found it impossible to pass the tea van, because they mash a grand brew, so I bought myself an egg butty, Butterfly an ice cream, and two teas so we could sit in the sun and watch a cormorant on the pond.  It was hilarious to see it surface directly beneath a very offended coot.  The sight of the coot rising into the air, still paddling as the cormorant did 'up periscope' was just perfect.

We rode home through Tooting Bec Common and via some back streets.  There was a dodgy moment when a Polcie car pulled out in front of us without looking to his right, but it was far enough away that I could avoid it.

Home with Butterfly.  A marvellous commute :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 01 August, 2011, 10:31:52 pm
Oh yes, I forgot the berk in a Merc.

On the A30 past Royal Holloway, there are some traffic islands in the middle of the road. He decided to try to overtake there, and realised there wasn't enough room when he hit the island and destroyed his front tyre with a rather loud bang. At least he went to that side and not into me!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 01 August, 2011, 10:52:08 pm
first time in a while I took the bike in to work on the train and rode home.

fabulous quick ride home, 53 minutes for 15.5miles on the 70" fixed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 August, 2011, 11:59:17 am
Nice ride in with Butterfly :)

I stopped to help a chap this morning as well.  His rear wheel was jammed in the brake, which was puzzling.  I adjusted the wheel position slightly, but it didn't solve the problem really, though it helped.  Wheel wasn't warped particularly.  The V-brake needed properly balancing, I noted, but there wasn't the time for that.  So I went to release the cable a little, but the adjusters were up to the end.  Nothing for it but to release the cable clamp, allow some through and retighten.  So that's what I did, and he was on his way to work.

I like to help :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 02 August, 2011, 12:00:52 pm
Be careful, Clarion. You are in danger of revealing your secret identity....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5eCdIe0wdvU

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 02 August, 2011, 12:03:41 pm
I wore a poundland hi viz vest for the commute today.  Trying it out before PBP.  It seems a bit big and baggy
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: why1040 on 02 August, 2011, 03:22:52 pm
Not sure if I qualify as doing a "commute"...I cycle 5.6 miles to the stables and back again two or three times a week.  This doesn't sound so bad til you consider that I also have my dog running alongside (who is about cocker spaniel sized, bless her).  It takes me nearly an hour each way when she's with me simply because she can't run any faster.  Alone I can do each journey in just under 40 minutes.  Mostly cos it's ridiculously hilly...

Today I had sunshine, friendly people on bikes, a couple on horses, spotted a new for sale sign on the local stud farm (must find out how many millions that's going for) and mostly safe, courteous drivers. 

Apart from the knobjockey in a Merc who decided to pass me with a rizla paper's distance on a blind bend!  He had to slam the brakes on just as he passed me as there was someone coming the other way.  He then stopped his car right in front of me and shook his fist at me, drove forward, stopped again and shook his fist at me and then sped off with tyre squeal!

Frightened me a bit, I have to say.  I'm new to this cycling malarkey, though I'm used to riding my horse in traffic when necessary.    I ride along a quiet country lane rather than take the main road exactly to avoid unpleasantness like that.

Thankfully the rest of the journey was uneventful!  Thanks to the dry weather we've had, I even got about 1/4 of the way up the bridlepath hill before I ran out of traction!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 03 August, 2011, 06:46:40 am
Thunderbolts and lightening, very very frightening.....
Not quite but cats and dogs comes to mind.
I took refuge in a barn in the end as I was in full fair weather mode of dress and on the TCR and the rain did not look like it would last long.
Long enough to get me very wet though.  Saved on having a wash when I got home  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 03 August, 2011, 12:29:37 pm
Last night forgot to set alarm. Woke up 1 hour late.  Left House 1/2 hour late.  Arrived at work 10 minutes late.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 03 August, 2011, 01:06:49 pm
I had a puncture premonition collecting the bike from the shed leaving work yesterday, and it came true. 7 miles in the front became wierd - oversteering for no reason I could think of, but when I stopped to check there wasn't much air left in the front tyre.

But that's not the point of the story. 2 miles later, approaching a roundabout, I realised what I'd forgotten to do after fettling the tyre. Any guesses?

(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 03 August, 2011, 01:25:08 pm
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 03 August, 2011, 12:29:37 pm
Last night forgot to set alarm. Woke up 1 hour late.  Left House 1/2 hour late.  Arrived at work 10 minutes late.

Looks like you can safely set the alarm 45 minutes later and still not be late for work
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cuddy duck on 03 August, 2011, 06:46:25 pm
Never having seen them before I assumed the couple who whizzed - on his 'n' hers Boardman bikes; white for her, purposeful black for him - past me on my commute home a few weeks back were holidaying in the area and out for a recreational ride. But I regularly see them now.
I'm not sure I've ever met less congenial, less communicative and more dour bicycle users.
If they surprise me they're away and I can't get across, but if I spot them coming in time I can just get on and hold their wheel. Which makes a challenging and enjoyable variation on my normal commute saunter, being paced home by roadie couple. Aware my group riding skills aren't the best I ride well back from their trailing wheel, so I'm not presenting a danger. I'm not able to take a turn on the front as they're going too fast.
I'm unfailingly grateful - when we reach a downhill section long enough for me to fetch enough breath to form the words, that is - but when they realise that they haven't shaken me off they pull over and stop. "Pull over" he barks to her, and she does.
Then they crank it up and re-pass me at a pace designed to make it impossible for me to hold on.
Seems a bit unnecessary.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 03 August, 2011, 08:05:36 pm
Apologies to the guy following his other half along the forest road in Ascot this evening. I didn't mean my cheery "Good Evening" to give you a heart attack.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 03 August, 2011, 08:15:42 pm
Quote from: cuddy duck on 03 August, 2011, 06:46:25 pm
Then they crank it up and re-pass me at a pace designed to make it impossible for me to hold on.
Seems a bit unnecessary.

That is the sort of thing that motivates me to get fitter and fitter so I can stick to people like that like a limpet  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 03 August, 2011, 08:16:47 pm
Worked out of Salisbury today.  Gave my uniform to a lass at HQ yesterday as she too was working with me so she took it down in her car.  That meant I got to take the TCR and really enjoyed the Woodford Valley run.  Lovely weather.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 03 August, 2011, 08:25:56 pm
Managed to avoid getting caught in a deluge of Biblical proportions. Again  :thumbsup:

Not sure I'm going to be so lucky tomorrow, though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 03 August, 2011, 10:26:30 pm
Saw a few jays, and two green woodpeckers in flight on my commute today.  And an Osprey and a Welsh hooker with long blond curly hair. (The last was a two-in-one sighting.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Meegat on 04 August, 2011, 12:04:56 am
This morning I met a bicycle angel.

While getting the bike out, I unknowingly caught my chain on some garden waste, dragging it off the chainring.  I stopped at the bottom of my hill, and was trying to re-fit the chain without smearing mank on my light-coloured work top when a woman nearby called out 'has the chain come off?' I said yes, and to my surprise she cheerfully announced "I'll put it back on for you" and hopped over to help. Despite my protests at the high levels of crud on the chain, she reached down and popped it back on. 

Thank you, bicycle angel, for your unexpected helping hand!  May random passers by always supply you with cable ties, tubes, and cake.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 August, 2011, 09:56:49 am
That's nice.  It's good for us to be prepared to help each other when we can. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 04 August, 2011, 10:05:49 am
Bit moist this morning.  It overwhelmed my eyebrows and I had that eye stinging because the eye is so full of water effect.  When i hit an uphill my shoes squelched as they were carrying quite a lot of rain
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 04 August, 2011, 10:52:20 am
Also wet on the other side of Somerset. Not looking forward to putting those socks back on at lunchtime

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 04 August, 2011, 01:16:23 pm
Not on the bike today. Got knocked off by a ped last night - she tried to run between two cars and hadn't spotted me in the primary position between the two cars.. Thought there might be damage to the bike, and they (she was with her whole family) seemed nice, so took them at their word when they gave contact details. There's no damage to the bike (went straight to lbs to get it checked), which is lucky, as the number and the email they gave me are both fake. Lesson learned - take photos and check contact details on the spot. Stiff neck and back today, but nothing that ibuprofen can't sort.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 August, 2011, 01:47:23 pm
Ouch!  Could have been nasty.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 04 August, 2011, 04:57:02 pm
Did I do an AlexB last night?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hbO902IqcO8

Unintentionally, anyway.  I was delighted when he got caught by the speed camera, if only because he'd come much closer to my rear than I was comfortable with as we approached the red traffic light, and I ended up making a pushing back motion and pointing out the rear camera.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bloomers100 on 04 August, 2011, 06:22:29 pm
Soaked this morning but missed the rain tonight. Bagged a geocache at Writtle but bottled the second one as it involved rummaging around in the bushes dressed in lycra.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RJ on 04 August, 2011, 09:04:20 pm
Nothing much happened.  Again.  Which is fine.  Hearts playing at home, so more parked cars on my route than normal.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 05 August, 2011, 07:10:31 am
I got very wet yesterday morning and then had a lovely ride home in the sunshine - and got warm.
I tried my Montane Velo on the way in and was suitably impressed with the performance of the garment.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 05 August, 2011, 08:00:48 am
Just finished this morning's installment of my wholly manufactured commute.  Since being  having my start location moved a year ago my work is only a mile and a half from home. To my undying shame things have slid terribly and there have been many days when my total milage has been three miles.  I have the waistline to prove it.  It has been much harder to be disciplined that I ever imagined.  :-[

I'm currently up to 80 commuting miles a week and my next target is 100.  With this in mind I tried a longer route this morning, which meant foregoing the brief leafy respite of Nonsuch Park.  Much more motonesque with many close passes etc.  Imagine by unconfined joy to discover that it only added an extra two miles.  Hey ho.

I think we're in for another warm one today, I can feel a poets day coming on.  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 August, 2011, 10:03:53 am
Discursive commuting is to be applauded :)

We had a fairly direct commute today.  But it was by loaded tandem ready for camping.  We did awfully well, given how little we've ridden the tandem over the last year.  My legs have stopped aching now. :)

Given that I'd been commuting on fixed, I was surprised that I only missed changing down enough for stopping once or twice.

And we had good company for part of the ride :D  Well, we both had good company all the way, but we met Origamist en route.  He was on gears, which I think is the only reason we caught him. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 05 August, 2011, 11:01:50 am
Well I am planning a rathern extended commute home (15 miles to become ~70)  ;D

You see we finish at lunch time on a Friday  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 05 August, 2011, 11:12:54 am
Just spent two hours with a PC, giving statements and DVDs into evidence of some motorists jumping red lights.  TBH I wish I could shop cyclists doing the same, because the combination of the two puts me at risk every time I'm stopping for lights and there's someone prepared to jump a light behind me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 August, 2011, 11:18:21 am
Well done.

This morning, I saw a motorbike cop who seemed to be finishing with a cyclist.  I pointed out the motorist using a handheld mobile driving past, but I guess the cop hadn't quite done.

We also saw a B*W stopped by a patrol car.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 05 August, 2011, 07:38:05 pm
As planned my commute home (Winnersh to Sunningdale) went from 24km to 100km as I diverted first SW through Hook to Alton then E to Haslemere and then N home via Frimley. Less than four and a half hours including the stop for an ice cream.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tourist Tony on 05 August, 2011, 11:59:39 pm
And yet again I got the horn...from a B*W, of course, as I took the primary to avoid the large pothole on my way home. So, he pulls alongside and I see the passenger window going down as he is about to deliver some advice on road position.

"Dear sir, there is a large pothole there, as you observed when you also pulled out to avoid it, so please depart"

Or something like that. What astonished me, was that he actually just shut the window and finished his overtake. Not a word said!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dinamo on 06 August, 2011, 06:23:22 am
Saw a couple of cowboys getting out of a taxi in Frenchay at 5 oclock this morning, must have lost there horse last night.
Nice ride in to work, no traffic  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 06 August, 2011, 08:18:33 am
Spoke to an airport worker on the way out last night. Nicely set up bike, neat rack pack, good Smart rear light (with the very bright top LED) and all in all sensibly set up. Pity the light was on his seat post, immediately in front of the rack pack. So I showed him the little LED loop on the back of the pack...

"Is it meant to go in there?"

"Yes"

Possibly a life saved?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RJ on 06 August, 2011, 08:20:37 am
Quote from: Steph on 06 August, 2011, 08:18:33 am
Spoke to an airport worker on the way out last night. Nicely set up bike, neat rack pack, good Smart rear light (with the very bright top LED) and all in all sensibly set up. Pity the light was on his seat post, immediately in front of the rack pack. So I showed him the little LED loop on the back of the pack...

"Is it meant to go in there?"

"Yes"

Possibly a life saved?
Nice work, Steph  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 August, 2011, 09:12:34 am
Lovely ride in with Butterfly.  The wind was a bit behind me for the latter half, so that went by very quickly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 08 August, 2011, 09:13:21 am
My legsies are very soresies after this weekend.   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 08 August, 2011, 11:02:53 am
Terrible hayfever this morning + a touch of a virus from Mrs V so not riding at any kind of speed.  Someone even overtook me on a bike on the hill past Rumwell!

Then to add insult to injury there was a heavy shower of rain for the last few miles.  Which of course stopped when I got to work  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 08 August, 2011, 12:52:27 pm
More top dressing on my commute,. A section in Pontyclun past the school and Leakes,  The A473 heading west past L'Oreal signs appear on the worst damaged section of the road advising 10mph skid risk in 300m.  So the part I really want to be resurfaced has been ignored and the better part of the road has been top dressed. Perhaps they will properly resurface the dangerous section but I doubt it.  They will probably just ignore. Try the Ferryside Fish Audax to see what I mean.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 08 August, 2011, 01:06:18 pm
In spite of the headwind (and some SLOW numpties who insisted on getting in front of me at each red light) I made pretty decent time.  I just hope the wind continues this evening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 08 August, 2011, 01:27:36 pm
First commute after two weeks holibobs. Took the upright for the first time in about 2 months. Got Wet. Hugely enjoyable.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 08 August, 2011, 01:54:53 pm
Wind, wind and more wind.  Can't wait for the homeward journey.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Titan yer Tummy on 08 August, 2011, 09:04:32 pm
So there I was just pootling home down the old Surrey Canal Tow Path minding my own business when 'ello 'ello what's all this going on? Road blocked, cops everywhere, leery yobby types with hoods hanging around and lots damage and broken glass. Didn't see the fire that must have started after I had gone past. Fastest ride I've done in months

I'm home now but I must say it was pretty scary.

TyT
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 08 August, 2011, 09:11:45 pm
Quote from: Titan yer Tummy on 08 August, 2011, 09:04:32 pm
So there I was just pootling home down the old Surrey Canal Tow Path minding my own business when 'ello 'ello what's all this going on? Road blocked, cops everywhere, leery yobby types with hoods hanging around and lots damage and broken glass. Didn't see the fire that must have started after I had gone past. Fastest ride I've done in months

I'm home now but I must say it was pretty scary.

TyT

It was fecking scary J, glad you got home safely. Peckham was 'orrible. Even though I deviated my route onto LCN 22 there were still bricks and debris on the roads. Got to the Co-op on Hither Green Lane and nearly all of the shops had shut except them and the staff there were frightened.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Rimnod on 08 August, 2011, 09:14:56 pm
Got chased by a Weimaraner which leapt a garden wall, barking and snarling to reinforce his territorial message.    When I shouted at it very loudly, it stopped barking and generally making a nuisance of itself turned and shot back over the wall back to the safety of its domain.

Bit highly strung these ghost dogs.  Think it forgot itself and tried the bravery thing.  Bless.

 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 08 August, 2011, 09:25:07 pm
Fastest commute home on the Etape - ever.  I was really going for it as I felt strong and the tail wind aided my journey.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 08 August, 2011, 09:37:39 pm
First commute after a 10 day break. Breezy on the way home - clocked at 35mph. 90% of it a headwind. Slowest for a while - sub 15mph average for the first time in almost 3 months  :P
Tried out the Alfine 11 for the first time - still bedding in and will report properly after the first 100 miles or so. Promising performance so far - just a few glitches as it beds in and I get used to a different way and feel of shifting gear. All properly adjusted now. The 1:1 ratio (39x20) gives ~54 inches - seems just right for climbing the hills  :)
Met two cyclists on the way  :o - one was a member of the Sheffield Time Trial club - towed him up the hill to Owler Bar where we parted company. Nice to be back on the bike again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 August, 2011, 10:23:46 pm
I rode west along Embankment into the wind.  There were sirens everywhere, and lots of Police vans heading southwards.

A short while later, I was sat on Clapham Common, and heard sirens all around.

But, riding through Balham, Tooting & Mitcham, there didn't seem to be any sort of bad atmosphere.  I am hoping that things round Elephant & Castle stay calm...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 08 August, 2011, 11:08:03 pm
Elephant and Castle was the limit of my attempted journey southwards. Met a tide of people making their way up the Walworth Road. One guy on a bike, wearing a balaclava eyeballed me and issued a robust challenge. I decided to head back to E&C which felt like a haven! Twenty mile detour followed, I had a fairly good run but I didn't ever expect to run in to a riot in Lee Green or ever find myself heading towards Eltham for safety. Even in leafy Bromley side streets felt distinctly edgy and the corner shops were all closed. Bromley town centre had a distinctly oppressive atmosphere. It was windy too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 08 August, 2011, 11:10:23 pm
Eek!  I'm seriously considering cancelling my work tomorrow.  I imagine students won't want to be travelling either.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 09 August, 2011, 06:52:55 am
Quote from: pdm on 08 August, 2011, 09:37:39 pm
Met two cyclists on the way  :o - one was a member of the Sheffield Time Trial club - towed him up the hill to Owler Bar where we parted company. Nice to be back on the bike again.  :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

Nice one.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 09 August, 2011, 09:40:25 am
I rode up Rumwell hill in the big ring today and arrived at work in the sunshine with my legs feeling good

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 August, 2011, 09:43:36 am
Rode in on the tourer to give me most options for heading home (and for riding around after work before picking up Butterfly).

No signs of anything adverse en route, except for some glass on the road at Stockwell.  Clapham looked very normal.

OTOH, Our Kid hasn't got a work to go to.  It's been raided & burned out :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 09 August, 2011, 10:04:30 am
My commute was greatley extended this morning.An uphill journey all the way to site.A pleasant downhill return to the office.
On fixed.
Distance...800 metres for the round trip
;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 09 August, 2011, 10:08:10 am
I salute you Sir. Your commute is considerably shorter than mine!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 August, 2011, 10:11:51 am
By Clapham Common, I saw someone drafting a truck.  We couldn't see past it.

Guess what happened when the truck stopped at a red traffic light?

(Hint: I stopped safely in the space I had allowed ;) ).

Fortunately, the newish Fuji wasn't too badly damaged, and the only injuries were to pride and the wallet when he replaces that STI lever.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 09 August, 2011, 10:17:22 am
Quote from: clarion on 09 August, 2011, 09:43:36 am
Rode in on the tourer to give me most options for heading home (and for riding around after work before picking up Butterfly).

No signs of anything adverse en route, except for some glass on the road at Stockwell.  Clapham looked very normal.


That said, the streets aroud Brixton, Stockwell and all along the southern half of my commute were very quiet; low traffic density, fewer pedestrians, generally subdued atmosphere.  Even once accross Chelsea Bridge, the traffic was lighter than normal.

There's a bloke who must be around 80 years of age riding his bike up and down the street outside my work, stopping everybody he passes to talk about the riots ("We need to start shooting them.  Can't we do something about overcrowding in this country?").  I don't think he's had so much fun since the war.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 August, 2011, 10:18:24 am
True.  Motor traffic density was right down.

On the other hand, there were vastly more cyclists than usual on my route.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 09 August, 2011, 11:22:40 am
The ride in was calm today, but Peckham quite frankly has been wrecked. There were lots of volunteers there picking up debris from the floor. A major part of my route was awash with glass and emergency services. I'm working until 8 this evening and am hoping that it does not kick off again - if it does am going to stay with my sister in Richmond.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 August, 2011, 11:27:48 am
Peckham has definitely been the worst for staff getting home last night and in this morning.  I'd give it a wide berth if you can.

Unfortunately, we're open late tonight, so I'll have staff setting off home after 8pm :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 09 August, 2011, 11:32:20 am
Headwind was annoying.  What was worse was the blue van that tried to drive right through me to get to a parking bay just before the Royal London.    He then proceeded to rant and rave at ME for being in his way when he manoeuvred (no indicators, of course) and then for having the audacity to stand in front of his vehicle so he couldn't park.  I had my camera so took pictures, but the only one that came out was of the driver making faces at me when he saw the camera - the pic of the registration didn't come out.  No markings on the side of the van, other than perhaps a small dent where my hand hit it.

After a night of little sleep, selfish people on the roads and in Tesco, I then got to my desk. *sigh*

As long as I can find somewhere to cross the River Lea / A12, I can get home avoiding any of last night's hot spots.  Maybe I'll arrange to 'work from home' and go visit friends outside of London instead.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 09 August, 2011, 11:47:55 am
A riot map on google for you:

http://maps.google.co.uk/maps/ms?msid=207192798388318292131.0004aa01af6748773e8f7&msa=0&ll=51.558503%2C-0.055275&spn=0.114195%2C0.298691
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 09 August, 2011, 12:11:01 pm
I was "mobbed" this morning.  By a flock of sparrows. Just riding past Donkeywell farm when they went streaming over and around me.  Quite surreal but considerably more pleasant than what's happening elsewhere.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 09 August, 2011, 06:27:36 pm
Quote from: jogler on 09 August, 2011, 10:04:30 am
My commute was greatley extended this morning.An uphill journey all the way to site.A pleasant downhill return to the office.
On fixed.
Distance...800 metres for the round trip
;D

had to make a second visit to site this afternoon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 09 August, 2011, 07:28:21 pm
Roads still noticeably uncrowded on the way home.  Back in Brixton, the police are in pairs on most corners.  Saw some Brixton Cycles employees and friends lolling on a sofa by Brixton beach.  Guarding the store, I presume.  Here's hoping all they have is a pleasant evening watching the sun go down.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 09 August, 2011, 09:00:41 pm
Autumnal this evening! Struggling to make 15C on the tops with yet more headwind, though not quite  as strong as yesterday.
No riots on the moors but I did get blown away by a Wiggins lookalike (could it have been he??) on the hill up to Owler Bar - he put 2 minutes into me on the way up! Getting the hang of the Alfine now - one more trip tomorrow and then I suspect I will be back on the summer bike while the weather lasts...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 09 August, 2011, 09:08:48 pm
Security desk at work warned me of problems at  Surrey Quays, slap bang on my route home, so stayed north of the river and used the Greenwich foot tunnel.  Gave me a chance to try out one of those infamous blue cycle routes - CS3 - for the first time.  It'll be the last time I use it. Frankly, I'd feel safer cutting it with the cars down The Highway than using that farce of a facility.  It's the first time I've ever thought that maybe I should wear a magic hat!

Lots of sirens in the background this evening.  Sounds like Lewisham's yobs are out to play again. Seeing the damage done to people's homes and little family corner shops makes me come over all Daily Mail-ish.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 09 August, 2011, 09:18:31 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 09 August, 2011, 09:08:48 pm
Gave me a chance to try out one of those infamous blue cycle routes - CS3 - for the first time.  It'll be the last time I use it. Frankly, I'd feel safer cutting it with the cars down The Highway than using that farce of a facility. 

I've had the *bonus* of choosing between the two on many occasions.

The Highway. Every time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 August, 2011, 09:26:38 pm
I rode Route 3 (not CS3) through the back between Clapham and Stockwell this evening, and up to Clapham Common.  It's a beautiful summer evening.  I met Butterfly for a cup of tea at the van, then we trundled across Tooting Bec Common and home along quieter roads.  A lovely ride, and no sign that anythign unusual was happening except for the large number of Police vans at <discreetly not mentioned location> and the Police also hanging around the tea van, waiting for the word to go.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mikeluke on 09 August, 2011, 11:41:05 pm
Cycled past smashed in windows in central Birmingham. Bit depressing really.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 August, 2011, 08:16:18 am
Beautiful (and very fast!) early commute this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 10 August, 2011, 09:31:22 am
Headwind for third day running.  Least it is not raining.  Hopefully the tail wind will prevail for the journey home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 10 August, 2011, 09:59:14 am
Lovely commute back on Eeerily quiet roads via Mile End, Victoria park, Leyton Leytonstone. Peaceful streets all along. A few people enjoying their booze along the canal.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adam on 10 August, 2011, 05:35:15 pm
An interesting commute.  Zooming down the small hill to the A1081 for Harpenden, I started to brake as usual, and there was sudden "Snap" sound, as the brake cable on the cantilever section of the front brakes sheared.   :o

Whilst jamming on the (rather useless) rear brake, I had a moment to decide to either veer right and hit the kerb and do a somersault onto the grass or go into the road.  A quick glance to the right showed nothing was coming on the main road, so I did a wide high speed turn to the left just managing to avoid going over the white line before stopping.

I swapped over the connecting wire from the rear brake in order to carry on, but I guess it's my own fault the wire sheared as it must have been getting in a bad state, as I never bother checking the state of things on my commuter bike.  I think I will from now on!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 10 August, 2011, 07:30:08 pm
That was wet!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 10 August, 2011, 07:36:40 pm
I stayed over at my sisters last night in Richmond so cycled home this evening. It was very peaceful in Peckham, some parts of it have been blocked off though. Lots of police presence on my route home which was reassuring. Spoke to the local Co-op staff and last night a group of scumbags tried to break in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Titan yer Tummy on 10 August, 2011, 08:16:22 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 10 August, 2011, 07:36:40 pm
I stayed over at my sisters last night in Richmond so cycled home this evening. It was very peaceful in Peckham, some parts of it have been blocked off though. Lots of police presence on my route home which was reassuring. Spoke to the local Co-op staff and last night a group of scumbags tried to break in.

The pound shop in Rye Lane has done a rather nice tribute by having people stick post it notes of support for Peckham all over the the boarded up glass.

Nice touch I thought.

TyT
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 10 August, 2011, 08:49:15 pm
Quote from: Titan yer Tummy on 10 August, 2011, 08:16:22 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 10 August, 2011, 07:36:40 pm
I stayed over at my sisters last night in Richmond so cycled home this evening. It was very peaceful in Peckham, some parts of it have been blocked off though. Lots of police presence on my route home which was reassuring. Spoke to the local Co-op staff and last night a group of scumbags tried to break in.

The pound shop in Rye Lane has done a rather nice tribute by having people stick post it notes of support for Peckham all over the the boarded up glass.

Nice touch I thought.

TyT

I saw it as I was cycling home on route 22. Lots of people were congregating around it  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 August, 2011, 09:19:54 pm
I went on a bit of riot tourism.  I rode through Walworth Rd, Westminster (to look at prep for MPs coming back), west along embankment & over the river to Putney, then Wandsworth, Clapham Junction and Clapham Common.  Then down through Brixton out beyond Loughborough Junction, up to Water Lane, down Brixton Hill and back to Clapham Common and Balham.

There were very few signs of anything except business as usual, with only the odd window boarded up.  Except in Clapham Junction, where there were burned out buildings, Police and glaziers everywhere, and almost as many boards as windows :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 10 August, 2011, 10:50:44 pm
Headwind for three days now, making me fed up. I'd rather do a hill with a tailwind than a flat with a headwind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 10 August, 2011, 11:03:39 pm
Headwinds,  Uphill AND Rain today...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 11 August, 2011, 06:57:39 am
Looks like I'll have 2 out of the 3.  No real hills compared to your mountain goat route  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 August, 2011, 09:07:59 am
Horrible headwind all the way to Putney last night.  I'd have turned at Wandsworth if I'd been on fixed. :(

This morning, I had a good ride in (may contain traces of tailwind ;) ).  Not as fast as yesterday, but there were motons to deal with.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: longers on 11 August, 2011, 09:41:27 am
My boss told (not asked) one of the lads to stick my bike in the back of the van and run me home this morning because it was still raining.
A nice gesture which I did appreciate but hope he doesn't make a habit of it as I don't want to have to argue with him!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 11 August, 2011, 09:53:01 am
up a 25% ramp in the village with an immediate right turn.   Take it at near trackstand speed and then disaster.  The alfine "slips" inside the hub and I end up in a heap in the (thankfully completely traffic free) junction.   My left leg feels like when you hit your elbow on the funny bone, I'd twisted awkwardly as I went down.

I can barely walk or ride the bike uphill but I manage to get to the mother-in-laws and walk the dog.  Then I make a half hearted attempt to carry on to work before giving up and going back home.

I applied ice and ibroprophen.  I'm at work now, but I got here with the car

The right leg has had all the previous problems over the last few months.  I have a week before I go to Paris for PBP...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 August, 2011, 10:18:17 am
Ouch!  Hope you recover quickly.

That's the first report I've heard of an Alfine slipping.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 11 August, 2011, 10:44:32 am
Quote from: clarion on 11 August, 2011, 10:18:17 am
Ouch!  Hope you recover quickly.

That's the first report I've heard of an Alfine slipping.
The 8-speed is prone to it if the cable tension is off - the usual sign is rattling in 3rd or 4th gear, leading to slippage as the cable stretches a bit more.

The 11-speed seems to be a bit more well-behaved in this respect.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 11 August, 2011, 10:53:31 am
Ouch. Hope it sorts itself out quickly.

I've always been wary of hub gears since having similar incidents on SA 3 speeds back in the early 80s - I ended up riding mine as a 2 speed because I couldn't trust 2nd not to dump me in the road no matter how carefully I tweaked it  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 11 August, 2011, 11:15:35 am
Quote from: MattH on 11 August, 2011, 10:53:31 am
Ouch. Hope it sorts itself out quickly.

I've always been wary of hub gears since having similar incidents on SA 3 speeds back in the early 80s - I ended up riding mine as a 2 speed because I couldn't trust 2nd not to dump me in the road no matter how carefully I tweaked it  :(
The stakes are a bit higher when the hub in question is an S3X  :o (I had more than my fair share of brown trousers moments when I was fine-tuning the one I fitted to my Dave Yates)

Alfines are a *lot* easier to adjust, although I find that it helps if you a) run as little exposed cable as you can get away with (on my Genesis, the only exposed cable is the short run into the cassette joint) and b) keep it lubed (a bit of GT85 or chain lube does the trick) - I've also noticed that I've had far less slippage with my 8-speed since I started using the JTek bar-end shifter; the RapidFire always felt a bit 'mushy' to me whereas the shift on the JTek feels reassuringly positive.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 August, 2011, 10:07:42 pm
An unusual but fine commute this evening.  I went to London Bridge station to get frustrated at the idiocies of privatised rail.  Then off to Wandsworth to meet Butterfly.  We rode together to Streatham Common, where she had a meeting, but we had time to sit and look at the view.

Then I headed off down a roughstuff path - and I mean rough.  But once I'd got to the end of that, I spied a mast.  It was very close.  So I decided to ride to Crystal Palace.  It was up.  Then back to the Common to meet Butterfly again, and, though it threatened rain, it stayed dry while we rode home along the A23.

41km this evening, which made more than 60km for the day. :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 12 August, 2011, 09:41:29 am
I'm getting a bit fed up with punctures.
While fettling the trailer last night, I noticed my commute bike had a flat front tyre. Sorted that out - a hawthorn stuck in it.

Riding in this morning, bike seems a bit bouncy, look down. Oh, bugger. Rear tyre going down.

Glass this time. Rear tyre cut to buggery, even tho' it's not very worn.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 12 August, 2011, 11:00:07 am
After 3 Alfine commutes, took the Orbit in yesterday.
Stomping on the pedals onto the Norton Roundabout there comes a CRACK like a gunshot as the 9 speed chain breaks. Fortunately, the crossbar hit my left thigh and not any more sensitive mid-line bits.  :P
Drag the cycle to the side of the roundabout and then dash in to retrieve the chain. Set up to fix chain with power links (always carried) when I discover that I have left my chain tool at home having used it to fettle the Alfine on the weekend and failing to replace it in the saddlebag where it usually lives  :facepalm:
Cue 5 km of scoot, walk, trot up to the top of the Dronfield bypass to allow a free-wheel down to JE James in Chesterfield and the borrowing of a chain tool...
30 minutes behind schedule arrival at work but thankfully still in time for booked commitments.
Trouble free ride in this morning on a new chain installed last evening. Slight drizzle on setting off - bit muggy on arrival.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 12 August, 2011, 02:36:01 pm
....... I died hauling Stig the fixie up Quarrywood Lane.

He got rotated back to duty after a chain snappage episode last night.

First sign was a bit of chain suck when changing down chainrigs from big to middle. I was slowing on the ascent from Cookham up to Winter Hill and was tight to the left of the road avoiding potholes and other shit. Didin't quite unclip in time but was saved by the tree next to me. Due to being saved by the tree however, I found the tree had become too familiar with my left foot whaic I struggled to move and unclip. I prolly looked a right cock  ;D

Anyhoo, sorted the chain suck and continued. I got into Marlow and was about 1 minutes ride from home and accelerating in traffic when I nearly had a nads/ stem interface due to a suddenley very easy rotating drive train. I looked down and back to see a car stopping in the traffic, right on top of my chain. Once retrieved I walked home and inspected the offending article. I have decided a new chain and cassette is the order of the day.

Stig will stand post until normal service is resumed.

I had forgotten the 'fun' of descending on fixed ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 12 August, 2011, 03:11:33 pm
Sympathy extended to fuzzy & pdm, but I am left wondering what kind of superhuman strength their legs have?

I can remember precisely one incident of a chain "break" in some forty-mumble years of cycling and that was entirely my own stupid fault for not putting the rivet back in properly (as I found out about two hundred yards into the post-fettle test run).  I can only conclude that I must be an utter wed and a weed.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 12 August, 2011, 03:21:44 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 12 August, 2011, 03:11:33 pm
Sympathy extended to fuzzy & pdm, but I am left wondering what kind of superhuman strength their legs have?

I can remember precisely one incident of a chain "break" in some forty-mumble years of cycling and that was entirely my own stupid fault for not putting the rivet back in properly (as I found out about two hundred yards into the post-fettle test run).  I can only conclude that I must be an utter wed and a weed.  :)

The power of the legs only came into it in getting Stig up hill :sick:

The snapped chain was routine maintanence fail, as in not being mindful enough of the wear state of the chain ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 12 August, 2011, 04:26:24 pm
I have broken a poorly-maintained chain ascending Cricklewood Lane. My legs were never strong. At least I was able to freewheel most of the rest of my journey...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 12 August, 2011, 04:28:15 pm
I've broken one chain but that was on bike that hadn't been ridden for years and stored outside so it was a tad rusty. Luckily I wasn't even 50 yards from home
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 12 August, 2011, 09:10:09 pm
I bruised my knuckles  >:(

I went to signal right in slow queuing traffic approaching a roundabout and banged my knuckles on the passenger window of the car that had been behind me.

here (http://www.google.co.uk/maps?ll=51.39049,-0.735279&spn=0.005075,0.009645&z=17&layer=c&cbll=51.390398,-0.735479&panoid=ty92zrtR4bIJoRt69S3XiQ&cbp=12,50.08,,0,26.53)

The one lane splits into two and then the left splits again. The right hand lane was full of traffic and I was turning right at the roundabout.

Then later after I was passed Swinley Bottom someone took the proverbial overtaking me on a 50 mph dual carriageway without moving any of the car over the white lines. So if they can so could I, the rest of the way to the A30 I claimed my lane and the cars had to leave the left lane to pass me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 August, 2011, 09:20:56 am
I had a very pleasant commute, which went via Clapham Common, where I had a cup of tea by the pond, and Drummond Street, where I met some lovely people for a curry. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 15 August, 2011, 11:27:45 am
I did something really stupid.

Last week I had two punctures.

Today, I've come to work without a pump. Left it in the panniers on the other bike.

So, on the way home do I chance it, or do I go out at lunchtime and get something like a co2 inflater?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 15 August, 2011, 11:46:30 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 15 August, 2011, 11:27:45 am
I did something really stupid.

Last week I had two punctures.

Today, I've come to work without a pump. Left it in the panniers on the other bike.

So, on the way home do I chance it, or do I go out at lunchtime and get something like a co2 inflater?
Given the state of the roads between York and Leeds I'd go for option c) get the bus home ....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 15 August, 2011, 11:53:07 am
That's not a bad idea, actually - then bring pump to work tomorrow. Cheaper than buying (yet another) pump.
The cyclepath along the A64 is strewn with glass and bramble runners atm.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 15 August, 2011, 12:00:51 pm
A slow mooch in due to being in Wales all week-end.

Came across a bit of an event this morning. Was just pootling between Peckham and Camberwell and there is a tight bit just before the Camberwell College of Art. A cyclist riding rather aggressively between a van and a car knocked off the wing mirror of the van. The van driver flew out of the seat to try and catch the cyclist but he had cycled off. I tell you what, if the driver had caught him he would have beaten the crap out of him, he was built like a brick sh*t house. So I said to him that I would be a witness to what happened, and gave him my details. Even though there is zero chance of identifying the cyclist, I did apologise to him because it was simply crap behaviour by the cyclist  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 15 August, 2011, 12:09:04 pm
What a lovely morning to do the first day at work after three weeks off. Little bit of Tour de Commute with a guy riding fast and sensibly on a btwin road bike. didn't start off that way, but you know how these things work. He had me beat on the flat but down Holland Park my 117" gear come into its own  ;D

Oh, I've heard a word, I'd be grateful if someone explain what it means.... sounded like "werk". I may have known once, but I think I've forgotten.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 15 August, 2011, 12:48:36 pm
I nearly had a crash this morning.  I was riding down a narrow lane through Radyr golf course.  The hedges to my left are west facing so grow out into the lane.  As is common in a narrow lane the cars create clear paths on both sides of the lane and collect rubbish in the middle.  When I get to the narrow section of the lane I switch from the left to the right side of the lane to avoid being hit by protruding branchs.  As I was crossing the mucky middle I hit something hard.  The front wheel instantly repositions the bike 40cm from it previous position.  All of a sudden I am heading straight for the bank and the bike is not completely upright. The imaginary trick cyclist who shares my head jumped into the front of my mind turned the bars pushed the pedals and returns to the recesses of my psyche leaving me puzzled What happened, What did I hit, How did I avoid the ground, Why am riding along as if nothing happened?
     
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 15 August, 2011, 01:03:15 pm
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 15 August, 2011, 12:48:36 pm
What did I hit
A golf ball?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 16 August, 2011, 08:43:09 am
Quote from: Ham on 15 August, 2011, 12:09:04 pm
What a lovely morning to do the first day at work after three weeks off. Little bit of Tour de Commute with a guy riding fast and sensibly on a btwin road bike. didn't start off that way, but you know how these things work. He had me beat on the flat but down Holland Park my 117" gear come into its own  ;D


An equation:

Three weeks off bike + decrepit body * ever such a little bit of racing = buggered calf

 :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 16 August, 2011, 08:56:11 am
Quote from: Ham on 15 August, 2011, 12:09:04 pm
He had me beat on the flat but down Holland Park my 117" gear come into its own  ;D
This ought to be incorporated into the commuter racing rules. No gears above 80"".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 16 August, 2011, 10:29:27 am
Going home last night - wet. This morning - windy.
With added bits of tree in the road.
Have I overslept? Is it October?

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 16 August, 2011, 10:42:15 am
Three simultaneous moments of extreme muppetry yesterday on the way home in the space of half a second and 2'.

Muppetry moment 1    Van driver in traffic queue on phone, not paying attention to what's going on around him.

Muppetry moment 2    Learner scooter rider ripping past traffic jam at 30mph+ leaving only about a two or three foot gap. Nothing coming the other way for some distance so she could have been much further out.

Muppetry moment 3    Cyclist pushes out in front of van aiming to head where van, scooter and I are all coming from.

How on earth scooter and cyclist managed to avoid each other and all stay upright is something I still can't quite fathom out.  Brown pants all round I reckon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Morrisette on 16 August, 2011, 01:58:59 pm
Terrible commute today. Headwind for the 400th consecutive day (has it been October all year?!). A cat ran out in front of me across the road - I braked, as I am on a bike and therefore awake and reacting. Cat continues running. Then a horrible thudding noise behind me (just a thudding noise - no braking noises evident) as some bastard runs the poor thing over in his twat-mobile car.

I really hope it wasn't as bad as it seemed. I really hope he stopped (I was going the other way and couldn't cross the road).

The scary thing is that this was just outside a primary school. Thank God it's the summer holidays.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 16 August, 2011, 11:34:20 pm
Explosive visitation on the way home today - Krylion + tube ripped open. Luckily not too far from home. Only 900 miles on that tyre though  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 17 August, 2011, 01:16:53 am
Today was my first ride in on fixed for a while because I finally got around to replacing the rear tyre that had received a nasty deep cut within its first hundred miles. I'd been enjoying taking the good bike in but it isn't particularly sensible or practical (I couldn't possibly carry a bag in to work while on the good bike). After negotiating yet more road closures and alternate one way roadworks that have sprung up around Dulwich I had a swift ride in and thought that the fixed compared remarkably well with its more expensive stable-mate. On the way home I discovered that this was mainly due to wind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 17 August, 2011, 09:11:08 am
Places you do not want to find a wasp #137

Face side of my sunglasses.  Eeek!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 17 August, 2011, 10:02:11 am
Unusually idiotc RLJers at the juction by Stockwell tube today.  Very heavy pedestrian traffic when the green man was up.  When the lights changed  - in favour of traffic from the SE and NW - and the peds stopped, two morons headed across from SW to NE.  Taking a car with them, because the idiot driver assumed they had seen the lights go green for them.  So this sorry trio crossed right in front of the already moving traffic, to much beeping of horns and vocal derision.  I really felt like chasing the cyclists down and giving them a slapping.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Frere on 17 August, 2011, 06:58:28 pm
Reasonable commute on the Commuter bike's first comutting ride, very comfortable and enjoyable, apart from a daft moment on the return leg when a speeding fuckhead cyclist nearly rode to the back of another cyclist, with a child in the child seat when traffic stopped at a zebra crossing by the Co-operative (formerly Somer somthing, the now defunct Bristol based chain of supermarket) on Gloucester Road. And, yes, too many RLjumpers both in Cardiff and Bristol. Odd thing was that the fuckhead cyclist was all kitted out in high viz jacket and trouser clips, helmet etc but no road sense, having left his thinking faculties in the gutter somewhere.

Frere
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Titan yer Tummy on 17 August, 2011, 07:37:19 pm
I genuinely try not to moan but I have had a belly-full of Southwark Council. They have been given a huge amount of money to redevelop Burgess Park - Gods knows it needs it. So in order to carry out this project they have decided to close the park completely for 9 months. This is my commute route. I am pretty sure others here use it (Welshness?).

Tonite I have had to try and find a sensible alternative, so instead of going through the Park I carried on down Wells Way and then Southampton Way crossed Peckham Rd and then the back streets parallel with Rye Lane. Absolutely awful route. If I have to do do this for 9 months I shall be thinking about giving up and taking the train.

Quest for a new route starts tonite. Suggestions welcome!!
 
TyT
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Rimnod on 17 August, 2011, 08:13:29 pm
Students are starting to meander back into St Andrews bringing their bad, inconsiderate, dangerous and foolhardy cycling habits with them. 

An example; idiot on a BSO MTB ignores a no entry sign covering a single lane through a mediaeval arch causing a driver to carry out an emergency stop allowing him to survive long enough to ride straight cross a roundabout (2nd exit) without stopping resulting a school bus driver, who had right of way, having to brake hard, you could see his passengers being thrown forward in their seats.  He then swung right across the flow of steady moving nose-to-tail traffic into a car park (known short cut) where he squeezed around the back of a vehicle being reversed into a car parking space.  Rightly the driver was shouting the odds at him as he pedalled off unaffected by the consequence of his negligent and illegal riding.   
In 200 yards of riding numb-nuts managed to alienated at least 3 car driver, one bus driver and me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim on 17 August, 2011, 08:36:14 pm
The council have been spreading gravel on the roads near Walton-on-the-Hill ^*$£ing idiots
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 17 August, 2011, 11:12:23 pm
Quote from: Titan yer Tummy on 17 August, 2011, 07:37:19 pm
I genuinley try not to moan but I have had a belly-full of Southwark Council. They have been given a huge amount of money to redevelop Burgess Park - Gods knows it needs it. So in order to carry out this project they have decided to close the park completely for 9 months. This is my commute route. I am pretty sure others here use it (Welshness?).

Tonite I have had to try and find a sensible alternative, so instead of going through the Park I carried on down Wells Way and then Southapton Way crossed Peckham Rd and then the back streets parallel with Rye Lane. Absolutely awful route. If I have to do do this for 9 months I shall be thinking about giving up and taking the train.

Quest for a new route starts tonite. Suggestions welcome!!

TyT

It used to be my commute home J - but as I work on the Old Brompton Road it does even factor into my commute any more. Am really cross for you that they have shut it. There are a series of NCN routes around there, its worth getting the old TfL maps out and doing some planning of a Sunday?

One of my friends had a nasty accident in Clapham yesterday. He was overtaking a rather slow open-topped tourist bus, and the next thing he can remember is coming to underneath the frigging bus  ??? His bike has been totalled but apart from some injuries he is still with us.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 17 August, 2011, 11:15:59 pm
Quote from: ACS on 17 August, 2011, 08:13:29 pm
Students are starting to meander back into St Andrews bringing their bad, inconsiderate, dangerous and foolhardy cycling habits with them. 

An example; idiot on a BSO MTB ignores a no entry sign covering a single lane through a mediaeval arch causing a driver to carry out an emergency stop allowing him to survive long enough to ride straight cross a roundabout (2nd exit) without stopping resulting a school bus driver, who had right of way, having to brake hard, you could see his passengers being thrown forward in their seats.  He then swung right across the flow of steady moving nose-to-tail traffic into a car park (known short cut) where he squeezed around the back of a vehicle being reversed into a car parking space.  Rightly the driver was shouting the odds at him as he pedalled off unaffected by the consequence of his negligent and illegal riding.   
In 200 yards of riding numb-nuts managed to alienated at least 3 car driver, one bus driver and me.

I know I shouldn't but, sometimes I wish I had the power to cause the visitation  of some hands on road rage on some people >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 18 August, 2011, 07:44:39 am
The total distance function on the bike speedo (I would call it an "odometer", but that would suggest that it smells bad) on the Orange Bling changed from 999.9 to 1000.0 while I was riding in today.

Bike was new in June.  The chain is, by now, a bit slack.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 18 August, 2011, 09:56:23 am
Quote from: Titan yer Tummy on 17 August, 2011, 07:37:19 pm
I genuinely try not to moan but I have had a belly-full of Southwark Council. They have been given a huge amount of money to redevelop Burgess Park - Gods knows it needs it. So in order to carry out this project they have decided to close the park completely for 9 months. This is my commute route. I am pretty sure others here use it (Welshness?).

Tonite I have had to try and find a sensible alternative, so instead of going through the Park I carried on down Wells Way and then Southampton Way crossed Peckham Rd and then the back streets parallel with Rye Lane. Absolutely awful route. If I have to do do this for 9 months I shall be thinking about giving up and taking the train.

Quest for a new route starts tonite. Suggestions welcome!!
 
TyT

Well, it depends where you are planning to end up. You could try route 23, which clips by the eastern side of Burgess Park, along the Surrey Canal path (or you can take the parallel roads) into downtown Peckham. Then straight through the middle of Peckham (actually I avoid the ludicrous new section of pointless bike path at the end of Rye Lane go around by Lidl and the school, the end bit of Rye Lane is like a horrid marmalade made out of deranged pedestrians and buses). Continue on up past Peckham Rye into Nunhead / Brockley.

Alternatively, just follow Walworth Road by the western side of the Park down to Camberwell Green and then up through Denmark Hill. Depending on final destination you can head on through Dulwich or take the swoop down Dog Kennel Hill (if the Gods are with you, the Sainsbury's traffic light will be green).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wascally Weasel on 18 August, 2011, 10:04:46 am
This morning riding through Richmond Park on the way to work I saw some Met police pull someone over for speeding/a dodgy overtaking attempt! The speeding/dodgy overtake was car vs me so it was very welcome.

I was getting near Ham Dip and taking the lane as I was doing 20mph when I heard and saw a car betting quite close and speeding upb (I turn right after the dip to go through the middle of the park and it’s easiest and safest to take the lane from some way back, this should not be a problem as I ride at the legal speed limit at this point.  I have learned to take the lane as people will still overtake here if give them room to do so, irrespective of what speed you are doing). 

So anyway, despite me riding at 20mph, taking the lane and going round a bend, the car behind starting revving up and attempting an overtake – then from behind the car I heard the Woo-Whoop! of a police siren and the driver got pulled over.

I was happy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ScumOfTheRoad on 18 August, 2011, 10:11:07 am
Quote from: Titan yer Tummy on 17 August, 2011, 07:37:19 pm
I genuinely try not to moan but I have had a belly-full of Southwark Council. They have been given a huge amount of money to redevelop Burgess Park - Gods knows it needs it. So in order to carry out this project they have decided to close the park completely for 9 months. This is my commute route. I am pretty sure others here use it (Welshness?).

I was at a Southwark cyclists meeting several months ago, where someone from the Burgess Park project presented their plans, and got feedback from SC.
I don't recall any notification of the park being closed for nine months - and if there was I would imagine that SC would have complained loudly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 18 August, 2011, 11:38:17 am
Just had a complete knobend cabbie, Castle Meadow, two lanes, I'm in the right hand lane going straight on, traffic lights forty feet ahead are red, he drives up my offside and changes lanes. Inevitably I freewheel up to his open window at the lights:

"Bit close mate"

"Well, you should watch where you're going!"

"I was, you overtook just before the red light"

"What red light?"

He said, as he waited. At the red light.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 18 August, 2011, 11:41:29 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 17 August, 2011, 11:12:23 pm
One of my friends had a nasty accident in Clapham yesterday. He was overtaking a rather slow open-topped tourist bus, and the next thing he can remember is coming to underneath the frigging bus  ??? His bike has been totalled but apart from some injuries he is still with us.

My friend who ended up underneath a tourist bus on Clapham Common is looking for any witnesses who saw this on Tuesday morning:

Quote
Gah. Why won't anyone tell me what happened to me on Tuesday? I don't know where the bits of my bike are, I don't know how I got in that mess, I don't know a damn thing. All I can find out comes from the local press / twitter which is as much help as a chocolate teapot.

Spoke to the police and they're useless - gave me a number and told me to wait three weeks. Happened just before 8am on Tuesday. I know I ended up under an open topped tourist bus. I want to know how? Did I do something dumb or not? I hate not knowing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 18 August, 2011, 11:54:26 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 18 August, 2011, 11:41:29 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 17 August, 2011, 11:12:23 pm
One of my friends had a nasty accident in Clapham yesterday. He was overtaking a rather slow open-topped tourist bus, and the next thing he can remember is coming to underneath the frigging bus  ??? His bike has been totalled but apart from some injuries he is still with us.

My friend who ended up underneath a tourist bus on Clapham Common is looking for any witnesses who saw this on Tuesday morning:

Quote
Gah. Why won't anyone tell me what happened to me on Tuesday? I don't know where the bits of my bike are, I don't know how I got in that mess, I don't know a damn thing. All I can find out comes from the local press / twitter which is as much help as a chocolate teapot.

Spoke to the police and they're useless - gave me a number and told me to wait three weeks. Happened just before 8am on Tuesday. I know I ended up under an open topped tourist bus. I want to know how? Did I do something dumb or not? I hate not knowing.

This thread in lfgss may be helpful. http://www.lfgss.com/thread70757.html (http://www.lfgss.com/thread70757.html)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Crock of Gold on 18 August, 2011, 12:16:33 pm
Quote from: hellymedic on 18 August, 2011, 11:54:26 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 18 August, 2011, 11:41:29 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 17 August, 2011, 11:12:23 pm
One of my friends had a nasty accident in Clapham yesterday. He was overtaking a rather slow open-topped tourist bus, and the next thing he can remember is coming to underneath the frigging bus  ??? His bike has been totalled but apart from some injuries he is still with us.

My friend who ended up underneath a tourist bus on Clapham Common is looking for any witnesses who saw this on Tuesday morning:

Quote
Gah. Why won't anyone tell me what happened to me on Tuesday? I don't know where the bits of my bike are, I don't know how I got in that mess, I don't know a damn thing. All I can find out comes from the local press / twitter which is as much help as a chocolate teapot.

Spoke to the police and they're useless - gave me a number and told me to wait three weeks. Happened just before 8am on Tuesday. I know I ended up under an open topped tourist bus. I want to know how? Did I do something dumb or not? I hate not knowing.

This thread in lfgss may be helpful. http://www.lfgss.com/thread70757.html (http://www.lfgss.com/thread70757.html)

Shite! Thread here on CycleChat as well. I went past just as you were being stretchered onto the ambulance and people were starting to clean up the helmet, shoes, cut clothes etc. Very sad. Road was closed so I was walking the bike along the common. The air ambulance made me fear for the worst.

http://www.cyclechat.net/topic/90715-cyclist-down-at-clapham-southside/
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 18 August, 2011, 12:53:57 pm
A nice commute today, looking forward to an interesting days work.  At mile 15 I had descend from Coed Y Mwstwr and decided not to enter Coychurch. I make a right turn and climbed a short section of road that I had not ridden before in my previous ten years of commuting. So monotony broken, perhaps I will permit myself some more excitement after another ten years.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 18 August, 2011, 02:21:49 pm
Quote from: Crock of Gold on 18 August, 2011, 12:16:33 pm
Quote from: hellymedic on 18 August, 2011, 11:54:26 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 18 August, 2011, 11:41:29 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 17 August, 2011, 11:12:23 pm
One of my friends had a nasty accident in Clapham yesterday. He was overtaking a rather slow open-topped tourist bus, and the next thing he can remember is coming to underneath the frigging bus  ??? His bike has been totalled but apart from some injuries he is still with us.

My friend who ended up underneath a tourist bus on Clapham Common is looking for any witnesses who saw this on Tuesday morning:

Quote
Gah. Why won't anyone tell me what happened to me on Tuesday? I don't know where the bits of my bike are, I don't know how I got in that mess, I don't know a damn thing. All I can find out comes from the local press / twitter which is as much help as a chocolate teapot.

Spoke to the police and they're useless - gave me a number and told me to wait three weeks. Happened just before 8am on Tuesday. I know I ended up under an open topped tourist bus. I want to know how? Did I do something dumb or not? I hate not knowing.

This thread in lfgss may be helpful. http://www.lfgss.com/thread70757.html (http://www.lfgss.com/thread70757.html)

Shite! Thread here on CycleChat as well. I went past just as you were being stretchered onto the ambulance and people were starting to clean up the helmet, shoes, cut clothes etc. Very sad. Road was closed so I was walking the bike along the common. The air ambulance made me fear for the worst.

http://www.cyclechat.net/topic/90715-cyclist-down-at-clapham-southside/

Many thanks to you both - that is extremely useful. I have facebooked him with the links.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Crock of Gold on 18 August, 2011, 04:00:21 pm
Bit confused now - the incident I passed on Tuesday morning involved a woman cyclist - according to the Wandsworth Guardian anyway...?  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 18 August, 2011, 04:25:09 pm
Quote from: Crock of Gold on 18 August, 2011, 04:00:21 pm
I'm must confused now - the incident I passed on Tuesday morning involved a woman cyclist - according to the Wandsworth Guardian anyway...?

Richard is definitely not a she  ;) Thats what a lot of the tweets are saying too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 18 August, 2011, 08:08:54 pm
Chinese whispers propagate errors.
Victim has now posted on lfgss and seems to be a married man.
I have made a similar error on the street once...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RJ on 18 August, 2011, 08:16:31 pm
Strewth h_w - that's a very scary experience your friend had.  Hope he mends fast ...

Not much happened on my commute today, which suits me fine - except that it was my first school run after the summer holidays.  FirstBorn is getting too big to get a pedal ride all the way ... 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 19 August, 2011, 07:58:59 am
I advised a car-driver stopped at traffic lights that both his brake-lights were not working.  (The roof-mounted LED one was still OK though - which is how I knew he was braking.)

Then had a rant ("Which bit of RED do you not understand?") at a cyclist who'd gone through at least 4 sets of red lights.  Nice bike, proper lycra, SPDs, the lot.  Including the "rules don't apply to me" plastic hat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 19 August, 2011, 09:22:36 am
Silly season, especially for Audis and BMWs Minis.

After months of relatively harmonious commuting, the last few days have seen several episodes of very close passes by twunts in their gas guzzling, global warming, road killing piles of rust-destined bling.  >:(

On a more positive note, the new Alfine hub and Versa shifters on the winter commuter seem to be working out quite well - the slightly shorter cranks and "feel" seems to be leading me to spin more in lower gears. Changing still is not as positive or solid as well tuned Ultegra but with increasing experience, I think I will live with it - just have to ease off a bit on the aggression during gear changes  ;)

All in all, I am happy with it and I am getting to like the hub gear a lot. Range just right, shifting OK and at most 1kph slower (at 25kph average) than the lighter, sportier Ultegra equipped summer commuter - which adds about 5 minutes to the day's commute. I suspect (hope?) efficiency will improve a tad once I do the first oil change and the gears are run in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 19 August, 2011, 09:15:05 pm
Curious occurrence on the commute just 10 minutes from home this evening...
Broad daylight in bright sunshine, not a cloud in the vicinity.
Cue downpour!
Reward: Beautiful full double arc rainbow arched over a view of the metropolis of Sheffield....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 19 August, 2011, 09:44:30 pm
Quote from: pdm on 19 August, 2011, 09:15:05 pm
Curious occurrence on the commute just 10 minutes from home this evening...
Broad daylight in bright sunshine, not a cloud in the vicinity.
Cue downpour!
Reward: Beautiful full double arc rainbow arched over a view of the metropolis of Sheffield....

Nice! I suppose the water just dumps from the sky when the air hits the edge of the Peak District.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Zipperhead on 20 August, 2011, 12:44:23 am
I must have had an invisible (to me) sign on my back today saying "please kill me"

On the way to work this morning, going into Wandsworth Bridge roundabout I was in the middle of the middle lane when an Addison Lee people carrier (surprise, surprise) drew level with me on my right and changed lanes right where I was. To my left was 14 tons of large red vehicle. Fortunately I could go a bit faster round there and squeezed through the gap between them.

Then going along Victoria Embankment, no traffic around, I just glanced down to my right and saw the wing of a car about to hit my knee! Fuck. Jinked left quickly and managed not to get my arse smacked by his mirror - there was of course absolutely nothing in the lane to the right of us! So I gave chase up Arundel Street (what a mess) into the Strand and came around him and stopped in front of him in traffic and had a little "discussion". Whether he really meant his apology, or had just had breakfast and couldn't face eating a bicycle I don't know.

Finally, coming home along Old York Road, approaching the lights with Fairfield street I was in the middle of the lane (as there's a bike lane on the right at the lights) and stationery traffic in front. A Range Rover driver decides thats a sensible place to overtake me, and then when she's alongside she just pulled into me, and of course had to stop almost immediately because of the traffic. I came alongside the open drivers window and she hadn't even registered me, because she was holding her fucking iphone to her ear and chatting away on it. When I started the discussion she threw it on the passenger seat, and then as I shouted at her she looked absolutely terrified and tried to sit in the passenger seat.

The next time I have to avoid this level of stupidity on the road then as they are a danger to others (and me!) I'm either going to take the keys or their phone and drop them off at the nearest police station.

Zipperhead's corollary to Darwin's Law: They're now so stupid that they will try and remove you from the gene pool as well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 20 August, 2011, 08:01:12 am
The ‘pull alongside and gently drift left it’s only a cyclist’ manoeuvre is the one that drives me the barmiest. It’s generally not done vindictively, but as a result of utter ignorance. And it’s tough trying to come up with a single tactic to counter this effectively.

Shouting YOOOOOOOOO and looking hard at them sometimes works.

Patting or, in extremis, slapping the wing mirror can produce the desired result but seems pretty likely to turn the driver into a seething ball of ire who then deliberately tries to run you down. (“Don’t you touch my f*cking car rantyrantyrant !!)

I’ve never thought to resort to key removal but it would seems entirely justified on this occasion.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 20 August, 2011, 10:44:29 am
Can completely sympathise with the last two posts. The Paddington bear stare works for me, as well as yelling very loudly.

Update on my mate Richard who was last seen under a bus  >:( He has through the kindness of people on here, such as the wonderful Hellymedic and Crock of Gold, lfgss and cycle chat obtained a witness to the event that occurred to him on Tuesday. That is good news - it does show you the power of these forums and the kindness of folk on here, many thanks!  :-*

My Saturday commutes into the Library are a joy: hardly any traffic around and I automatically knock about 8 minutes off my time.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 20 August, 2011, 10:59:31 am
I only posted a link!
Wish Richard well from me!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 20 August, 2011, 11:10:16 am
Quote from: hellymedic on 20 August, 2011, 10:59:31 am
I only posted a link!
Wish Richard well from me!

You are still wonderful  :) I will indeed wish him well from you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 20 August, 2011, 11:12:24 am
Yesterday on the way in to work I managed to fall asleep on the bike. Only for a second or two
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 22 August, 2011, 08:39:25 am
Kept company by a barn owl for a couple of hundred yards or so.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Rimnod on 22 August, 2011, 11:51:45 am
Silly season commenced this morning.  Kids back to school.  Off road parking in the cycle appears to be mandatory and triple parking is permitted if you use your hazard warning lights.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: eck on 22 August, 2011, 11:55:24 am
Quote from: ACS on 22 August, 2011, 11:51:45 am
Silly season commenced this morning.  Kids back to school.  Off road parking in the cycle appears to be mandatory and triple parking is permitted if you use your hazard warning lights.
Round here, you don't have to use your hazard warning lights if you have a vanity / personalised number plate.  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 22 August, 2011, 12:04:18 pm
First time on the bike for (I think) eleven weeks.  Yay!

I also cycled along London Road in Croydon, which is my normal commute, but I had no reason to go that way since the riots.  Two fairly badly damaged bits of building, one part of the road has been totally relaid over quite a large area, next to where there was a fire, another section of road is completely closed to vehicular traffic, whilst the demolition work is underway. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 22 August, 2011, 12:11:01 pm
In Brum you are allowed to park on the pavement outside school as long as you hoot at the children walking along it to get them out the bloody way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 22 August, 2011, 01:25:03 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 22 August, 2011, 08:39:25 am
Kept company by a barn owl for a couple of hundred yards or so.

It was probably sizing you up to see if you could be dropped on the nest for the chicks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 22 August, 2011, 02:23:14 pm
Quote from: TimO on 22 August, 2011, 12:04:18 pm
First time on the bike for (I think) eleven weeks.  Yay!

Yay indeed.

First go on the commute to the new house today. Very agreeable, much more nodding to each other with other cyclists than the old route.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Rimnod on 22 August, 2011, 03:28:56 pm
Quote from: eck on 22 August, 2011, 11:55:24 am
Quote from: ACS on 22 August, 2011, 11:51:45 am
Silly season commenced this morning.  Kids back to school.  Off road parking in the cycle appears to be mandatory and triple parking is permitted if you use your hazard warning lights.
Round here, you don't have to use your hazard warning lights if you have a vanity / personalised number plate.  ::-)

This is St Andrews, you are not allow within the towns wall unless you have a personlised number plate.  Exemptions are allowed for Porsche Cayenne, VW Touareg, high end LandRovers and Mini's estates (second car 'cause 'he' has taken the Cayenne to the office because he has a breakfast meeting)  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tigerrr on 22 August, 2011, 05:43:06 pm
Quote from: eck on 22 August, 2011, 11:55:24 am
Quote from: ACS on 22 August, 2011, 11:51:45 am
Silly season commenced this morning.  Kids back to school.  Off road parking in the cycle appears to be mandatory and triple parking is permitted if you use your hazard warning lights.
Round here, you don't have to use your hazard warning lights if you have a vanity / personalised number plate.  ::-)

Vanity plates! lovely turn of phrase and one I shall adopt. Personalised plates sounds as if it has a shred of purpose but vanity plates are a truly damning description.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 22 August, 2011, 07:26:14 pm
Near witness to a potentially nasty SMIDSY,  story continues in "Lift the Lid". You have been warned.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 22 August, 2011, 07:27:37 pm
Quote from: Tigerrr on 22 August, 2011, 05:43:06 pm
Vanity plates! lovely turn of phrase and one I shall adopt. Personalised plates sounds as if it has a shred of purpose but vanity plates are a truly damning description.
I prefer the term 'prat plates'

ObOnTopic: on today's commute, nothing happened.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smurphboy on 23 August, 2011, 09:25:48 am
Me!

First commute to work since I broke my hand. I changed my route and found a nice quiet road instead. It was very pleasant and the promised rain didn't turn up. Cue getting soaked on the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jamie on 23 August, 2011, 09:37:41 am
Well, I enjoyed that, a lot.  Wet wet wet. Can't have been the only one as there was lots of 'traffic light chatting' and smiling going on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: longers on 23 August, 2011, 09:37:54 am
Last week I stopped to help a chap who'd taken a tumble, gave him a bit of first aid and made sure he was reasonably ok and going to get to hospital all right (he was on his way anyway for a bit of outpatient surgery).

This morning I saw him again and he flagged me down for a chat. His sore shoulder was broken, he'd cracked a couple of ribs and his cut hands were the least of his woes. I guess you don't bounce as well when you're 78. A fantastic chap who I'd have preferred to have met in different circumstances - he's got a lot of stories to tell* and fortitude in abundance** and his attitude to it all will stay with me for a fair while.

* One was how he'd been at the velodrome while his son was playing basketball in the centre while folk were doing a bit of pedalling round the outside; and he got chatting to a nice young man who'd pulled over because he had an unusual jersey on. They'd been chatting away happily for five minutes or so before a busybody had to bustle over and tell him that he was talking to Chris Hoy. Apparently he got tongue tied after that and it spoilt the conversation a bit.

** He'd decided to skip the bus today and walk to his check up on the off chance of me going past at that time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim on 23 August, 2011, 09:41:27 am
I'm currently regretting the fact that the drying room is out of action. Getting changed to ride home isn't going to be pleasant.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 23 August, 2011, 09:48:59 am
First commute since I did the M25 Orbital ride on Saturday.  Legs holding up well (on Sunday, I rode to meet friends just a couple of miles away because I wasn't confident of walking that far); slightly slower commute but that was due to the rain.  Very few cyclists out there today ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hulver on 23 August, 2011, 09:52:53 am
A bit of a scare from a large DHL truck who over took me and started pulling in before he was completely past me. I had to slow down to allow him to pull ahead before he ran me over.

I caught up with him at the next lights, and asked him to please make sure that he was completely past somebody before pulling in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 23 August, 2011, 10:14:34 am
Too wet to go out today. Bonus stupidity points to the X5 driver (and it's not like they don't already have them in abundance) who tried to undertake me on the Elephant & Castle Roundabout of Doom yesterday despite the fact that (a) I was travelling at the same speed as all the other traffic and (b) screech.

Yes, the lane you are in - my dear Panzer commandant - is about to turn into a series of bus stops populated with large red, London buses. That's why I'm (not to mention all the other cars) not in that lane.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 23 August, 2011, 10:36:00 am
Quote from: Tim on 23 August, 2011, 09:41:27 am
I'm currently regretting the fact that the drying room is out of action. Getting changed to ride home isn't going to be pleasant.

If you have access to a server room, locate the most stressed server and hang by the exhaust fans. Job done.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jamie on 23 August, 2011, 11:09:39 am
Quote from: Tim on 23 August, 2011, 09:41:27 am
I'm currently regretting the fact that the drying room is out of action. Getting changed to ride home isn't going to be pleasant.
An old desk fan is doing wonders for me, everything is nearly dry already.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Titan yer Tummy on 23 August, 2011, 11:20:38 am
Quote from: longers on 23 August, 2011, 09:37:54 am
Last week I stopped to help a chap who'd taken a tumble, gave him a bit of first aid and made sure he was reasonably ok and going to get to hospital all right (he was on his way anyway for a bit of outpatient surgery).

This morning I saw him again and he flagged me down for a chat. His sore shoulder was broken, he'd cracked a couple of ribs and his cut hands were the least of his woes. I guess you don't bounce as well when you're 78. A fantastic chap who I'd have preferred to have met in different circumstances - he's got a lot of stories to tell* and fortitude in abundance** and his attitude to it all will stay with me for a fair while.

* One was how he'd been at the velodrome while his son was playing basketball in the centre while folk were doing a bit of pedalling round the outside; and he got chatting to a nice young man who'd pulled over because he had an unusual jersey on. They'd been chatting away happily for five minutes or so before a busybody had to bustle over and tell him that he was talking to Chris Hoy. Apparently he got tongue tied after that and it spoilt the conversation a bit.

** He'd decided to skip the bus today and walk to his check up on the off chance of me going past at that time.

Was just about to start whinging about the weather until I read this.

What a great story.

Another good story here http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-14610857 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-14610857) as well.

TyT
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 23 August, 2011, 11:57:39 am
I was reminded this morning how much I actually love riding in the rain when it's not cold.

Also, I was fast. Not fast fast, but I covered 27km in 1hr, 1min plus a few odd seconds, which is very nippy by my usual standards, especially on fixed.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 23 August, 2011, 12:21:57 pm
Quote from: Ham on 23 August, 2011, 10:36:00 am
Quote from: Tim on 23 August, 2011, 09:41:27 am
I'm currently regretting the fact that the drying room is out of action. Getting changed to ride home isn't going to be pleasant.

If you have access to a server room, locate the most stressed server and hang by the exhaust fans. Job done.

I drape them over the two n-hundred-Watt PCs under my desk. All that heat has to be useful for something.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 23 August, 2011, 12:56:35 pm
Quote from: hatler on 20 August, 2011, 08:01:12 am
Patting or, in extremis, slapping the wing mirror can produce the desired result but seems pretty likely to turn the driver into a seething ball of ire who then deliberately tries to run you down. (“Don’t you touch my f*cking car rantyrantyrant !!)

I had this with a taxi driver coming round Parliament Square once. I was taking the lane round the bend (one of four lanes, in fact) and he started drifting across my line, trying to force me wide, so I slapped the side of the car and yelled "Oi!" He called me a cunt and actually threatened to hospitalise me. I'd love to have known what his passengers thought of his attitude but I didn't feel much like hanging around to find out. It was only later that it occurred to me I probably should have taken down his number and reported him. Not that I'd have expected any action to have been taken against him if I had done so.

He also had the nerve to accuse me of deliberately obstructing him, saying he'd been "stuck behind me" all the way down Victoria Street. Only two slight flaws in his argument: 1) I'd been going at the same speed as the rest of the traffic, so if he'd got past me he'd only have been stuck behind the car in front, and 2) Victoria Street has two lanes, so he could easily have moved into the other lane to pass me. Except that traffic in the other lane wasn't moving any faster anyway.  :facepalm:

The really infuriating thing is when they have a go back at you for trying to pass them on the inside, when in fact they just haven't finished overtaking you yet. It's astonishing and alarming just how unaware some people are of what's going on immediately around them when they're safely cocooned in their tin box.

It's also astonishing how what some drivers see from behind the wheel is only ever what they want to see.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 24 August, 2011, 12:46:27 pm
This moring my legs were like polished titanium, pulled by sinews of pure carbon fibre, powered by a billion nuclear nanobots.


Or perhaps the wind was to my back  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 24 August, 2011, 01:06:15 pm
Yesterday an unexpected flat, and the wet weather left me with a "Can't Be Arsed" moment, and I public transported in.  Today, even when the first repair of the flat failed, I persevered and repaired it, since I need to get back into the cycling habit, so I'm moderately cycling fit for the FNRttC marshalling a week on Friday.

I'm feeling the commute in my legs a bit, but not overly so.  That's what no cycling for two and a half months does to you!  I averaged in at about 14.4 mph, which is fine, since normally I do between 13.5 and 15.5 mph (16.1 mph is my absolutely fastest ever commute!).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 24 August, 2011, 04:57:46 pm
Numb fingers on left hand by the time I got in. This is only half an hour, mostly gentle uphill, but on a bike I used to ride regularly for longer than that! I'll try a different bike tomorrow (drops rather than straight bars).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 24 August, 2011, 08:09:54 pm
Quote from: tonycollinet on 24 August, 2011, 12:46:27 pm
This moring my legs were like polished titanium, pulled by sinews of pure carbon fibre, powered by a billion nuclear nanobots.


Or perhaps the wind was to my back  ;D

And this evening they felt like two lumps of rather soggy wood, powered by an asthmatic three legged hamster in a wheel.  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 25 August, 2011, 08:48:49 am
Noes - out-wierded ;D

Chapeau to the young lass grumping up Ashbury (500m @ ~10%) onna UNICYCLE :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 25 August, 2011, 09:57:32 am
The most minor of bike fettles this morning paid off big time.
I pumped my tyres up. I had no idea that the pressure had dropped that much, because I flew in today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 25 August, 2011, 10:23:50 am
Quantum rain - you know, the sort that manages to tunnel its way through your n layers of waterproofs to soak the skin directly. Lots of that, but strangely enjoyable despite looking like a drowned rat by the time I got to work.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 25 August, 2011, 10:59:15 am
Was not raining.  Which was a pleasant surprise as last night's forecast indicated I would get to work just in time to watch (soggily) the rain disappear eastwards. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Rimnod on 25 August, 2011, 08:41:09 pm
Legs were willing, head in a different place all together.  Knew things where bad when I got scalped on the hill to the crossroads.  Having a rural commute I rarely see another cyclist, let alone another cyclist who commutes.  The shame felt on being dropped by another cyclist who was clearly carrying a substantial amount of poundage destroyed any enthusisum I had left and then it rained!  Poo day alround.

 :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 25 August, 2011, 10:16:41 pm
Quote from: ACS on 25 August, 2011, 08:41:09 pm
Legs were willing, head in a different place all together.  Knew things where bad when I got scalped on the hill to the crossroads.  Having a rural commute I rarely see another cyclist, let alone another cyclist who commutes.  The shame felt on being dropped by another cyclist who was clearly carrying a substantial amount of poundage destroyed any enthusisum I had left and then it rained!  Poo day alround.

 :-[

You can have a better day tomorrow
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 26 August, 2011, 10:37:39 am
Quote from: perpetual dan on 24 August, 2011, 04:57:46 pm
Numb fingers on left hand by the time I got in. This is only half an hour, mostly gentle uphill, but on a bike I used to ride regularly for longer than that! I'll try a different bike tomorrow (drops rather than straight bars).

No pain on the drops the last two days, and that bike is much more flattering  :)
Thumb is still generally sore though, has been for a while.

Refreshing sort of rain this morning, no waterproof needed. However, it seems I've used all the spare socks in my drawer at work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 26 August, 2011, 11:16:08 am
I'm fascinated by how drivers react to cyclists.

Example 1
Cyclist pulls up to a red light.  In the neighbouring lane is a car which was stopped by the red light.  As soon as the driver notices a cyclist has pulled up level with them, they start inching forward.  Until the arrival of the cyclist the car was stationary.

Example 2
Cyclist comes to a stop at a red light, in the 'bike box'.  There is a car also stopped at the light, but has obeyed the law and not entered the ASZ.  As soon as the driver spots the cyclist ahead of them in the ASZ, the driver starts inching forwards.

I'd love to see what's going through their tiny minds, then play it back to them in the hope that they be embarrassed by their thoughts and actions.  But I wouldn't hold my breath.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 26 August, 2011, 12:41:48 pm
I'm doing well with the rain this week. None has fallen on me while a ride home despite threats from the weather men.  Possibly I am wrong this may count as the commute. Last night I arrived home as it started to drip. I stepped inside the back door to get the key to the shed.  As I opened the shed door the rain started to pour down. So I waited inside to see if it would stop but it did not so I got soaked crossing the garden back to the house.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 26 August, 2011, 01:00:34 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 26 August, 2011, 11:16:08 am
I'm fascinated by how drivers react to cyclists.

Example 1
Cyclist pulls up to a red light.  In the neighbouring lane is a car which was stopped by the red light.  As soon as the driver notices a cyclist has pulled up level with them, they start inching forward.  Until the arrival of the cyclist the car was stationary.

Example 2
Cyclist comes to a stop at a red light, in the 'bike box'.  There is a car also stopped at the light, but has obeyed the law and not entered the ASZ.  As soon as the driver spots the cyclist ahead of them in the ASZ, the driver starts inching forwards.

I'd love to see what's going through their tiny minds, then play it back to them in the hope that they be embarrassed by their thoughts and actions.  But I wouldn't hold my breath.

It may be completely subconsious. I was annoyed recently by my Dad inching forward in a queue of stationary traffic. Car in front was not moving. What is the point I thought.

Then I caught myself doing exactly the same thing a few days later.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dinamo on 26 August, 2011, 01:18:11 pm
Riding home last night at 22:30 I was shocked to see as I passed The Mouse pub in Westbury, that they were showing the Vuelta highlights on the TV in the pub !!!!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 26 August, 2011, 04:32:56 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 26 August, 2011, 11:16:08 am
I'm fascinated by how drivers react to cyclists.

Example 1
Cyclist pulls up to a red light.  In the neighbouring lane is a car which was stopped by the red light.  As soon as the driver notices a cyclist has pulled up level with them, they start inching forward.  Until the arrival of the cyclist the car was stationary.

Example 2
Cyclist comes to a stop at a red light, in the 'bike box'.  There is a car also stopped at the light, but has obeyed the law and not entered the ASZ.  As soon as the driver spots the cyclist ahead of them in the ASZ, the driver starts inching forwards.

I'd love to see what's going through their tiny minds, then play it back to them in the hope that they be embarrassed by their thoughts and actions.  But I wouldn't hold my breath.

Quite.

Here are mine.

Example 3.
Cyclist making a good pace approaches T-junction. Car behind accelerates to ensure they reach the junction at the same time as cyclist. Neither can now see what's coming, so both spend far longer than neccessary verifying path is clear. Car driver cedes right of way to cyclist.

Example 4.
Lone cyclist approaches parked car. As cyclist is within 20m or so of car, driver makes unexpected lunge out from kerb to perform full three point turn. Cyclist is forced to make abrupt complete stop. A glance over shoulder reveals road behind is completely empty. Car pulls back to far kerb to complete manoeuvre and indicates it's OK for cyclist to pass in frotn of car to continue on their way.

and rinse and repeat ad infinitum...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 26 August, 2011, 11:25:53 pm
Sub-optimal commute for a change....
Drizzle.
1/3 way home on Wigley Moor, I experience a deflation in the rear wheel department - first ever on Marathon Supremes and first for about 4 years... Inspection reveals a shard of glass having worked through the casing as the cause.
Drizzle.
Set about changing the tube when I noticed i have some difficulty seeing and there were funny feelings coming from exposed bits of flesh. Midges! Tons of them, so thick a cloud as to impair vision and all very hungry! Good thing I had practiced removing the Alfine rear hub wheel last weekend, but it was still a slow process made worse by the pesky, horrible, little mites. Worse than the Scottish ones.
Drizzle stopped by the time it was finished but instead it was 15 miles of slog into a strengthening northerly headwind on Friday evening legs.
Considering putting the Marathon Plus back onto the rear wheel for the winter...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 27 August, 2011, 07:12:00 pm
Well that was a little damp. Motorcyclist commented on my lack of wet weather gear, i replied that it was impossible to get any wetter and that I was as happy as a pig in poo. So wet at Marble Arch that the residual soap from my body/clothes (not sure which) made foam run down my leg.
Saw the most beautiful rainbow as I rode down the Embankment, with one end in the water.
An excellent ride.

(btw does it count as a commute if you dont ride home as usual, but go somewhere completely else after work?)

(oh and hello!)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 28 August, 2011, 01:12:58 pm
Quote from: Parsley on 27 August, 2011, 07:12:00 pm
Well that was a little damp. Motorcyclist commented on my lack of wet weather gear, i replied that it was impossible to get any wetter and that I was as happy as a pig in poo. So wet at Marble Arch that the residual soap from my body/clothes (not sure which) made foam run down my leg.
Saw the most beautiful rainbow as I rode down the Embankment, with one end in the water.
An excellent ride.

(btw does it count as a commute if you dont ride home as usual, but go somewhere completely else after work?)

(oh and hello!)

Hello Parsley!
I see you're almost local to me. I spent most of yesteday in South Ken, mostly avoiding the showers.
Welcome!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 28 August, 2011, 08:06:31 pm
Welcome to the asylum!

Quote from: Parsley on 27 August, 2011, 07:12:00 pm

(btw does it count as a commute if you dont ride home as usual, but go somewhere completely else after work?)


Any ride between home and place of employment counts as a commute in my book.  I've done the homeward 'commute' via Hanwell or Richmond Park (work in the City, live in East End).  TBH, don't think I could handle commuting 70km a day, even in nice weather.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 28 August, 2011, 08:42:04 pm
the ride was to a stag party. Home didnt happen till the next day. Riding across our fair city makes a change from skirting the western edge of it.

Quote
Welcome to the asylum!

Thanks. Have been lurking for a while. But I knew I was in the right nuthouse when i saw that some of you speak sheddi.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 28 August, 2011, 08:46:52 pm
You sheddi freaks!  I've managed to avoid that for at least 7 years.  :P

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 29 August, 2011, 01:03:21 pm
I still pops back to Ye Shedde but my ISP vapourised. It had a nice Usenet newsfeed...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: NeilP on 30 August, 2011, 09:09:56 am
Question for the hardcore commuters on here. This week I am working 1500 - 0000 shift but that finish time is very flexible as I could in fact not finish until, well, anytime tbh. If you were in this position would you still commute the 17 miles each way?

I'm considering driving half way and riding the rest as a compromise.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Titan yer Tummy on 30 August, 2011, 09:51:58 am
YES!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: NeilP on 30 August, 2011, 10:03:37 am
Quote from: Titan yer Tummy on 30 August, 2011, 09:51:58 am
YES!

Brave call. Even if you didn't finish until 4am and then had to ride for an hour and a bit home, shower, sleep and get up in time to set off again at 1330? I don't think many people would do this tbh.

I've done it on occasions and it's great cycling at that time of night when the roads are empty but you soon turn into a zombie if you have a few "unlucky" late finishes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 30 August, 2011, 10:10:31 am
If it wasn't very hilly, I'd ride that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dinamo on 30 August, 2011, 10:19:56 am
Quote from: Titan yer Tummy on 30 August, 2011, 09:51:58 am
YES!

.........but be weary of late night revellers !
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 30 August, 2011, 10:21:14 am
Yeah, I used to do that. Fine when you are in your twenties. Don't think I'd fancy that now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 30 August, 2011, 10:34:54 am
Strange morning. Needed to get in to work early so tried to get the 7.16 train instead of the usual 7.53. Left the house a bit late so had to really hammer it and set a PB for the 4.5km to the station on fixed of 9min 33secs - ie 28km/h average, which isn't bad considering there's a bit of a hill on the route.

When I got to the office, I realised I'd left my keys at home. Luckily, I'd brought a clean set of undies and T-shirt with me from home this morning, but my office trousers are in my locker... Don't think I could face wearing cycling shorts in the office - I'd never hear the end of it - so I made a dash up the road to M&S. Did you know you can get jeans for £15 at M&S now? Bargain. Maybe not the most stylish but comfortable. And more suitable for the office than lycra.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 30 August, 2011, 10:54:41 am
Quote from: oxoneil on 30 August, 2011, 09:09:56 am
Question for the hardcore commuters on here. This week I am working 1500 - 0000 shift but that finish time is very flexible as I could in fact not finish until, well, anytime tbh. If you were in this position would you still commute the 17 miles each way?

I definitely would. In fact, I think I'd probably enjoy it.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 30 August, 2011, 10:57:05 am
Quote from: oxoneil on 30 August, 2011, 09:09:56 am
Question for the hardcore commuters on here. This week I am working 1500 - 0000 shift but that finish time is very flexible as I could in fact not finish until, well, anytime tbh. If you were in this position would you still commute the 17 miles each way?

I'm considering driving half way and riding the rest as a compromise.

I'd play it by ear. Ride sometimes, drive sometimes. Unless the driving/cycling makes practical sense, I'd stick with one or the other.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 30 August, 2011, 11:06:40 am
Quote from: Ham on 30 August, 2011, 10:57:05 am
Unless the driving/cycling makes practical sense, I'd stick with one or the other.

Agreed. The compromise option sounds like the worst of both worlds to me.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: NeilP on 30 August, 2011, 11:37:41 am
Quote from: citoyen on 30 August, 2011, 11:06:40 am
Quote from: Ham on 30 August, 2011, 10:57:05 am
Unless the driving/cycling makes practical sense, I'd stick with one or the other.

Agreed. The compromise option sounds like the worst of both worlds to me.

d.

Do you think so? It's a bit of a mind thing really cos if I do finish late I have the comfort of knowing I haven't got an hours ride home but also satisfaction that I have at least done some exercise.

Late night revellers?? Not likely, takes 5 mins to get out of town and then I'm in the lanes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 30 August, 2011, 11:49:53 am
Quote from: oxoneil on 30 August, 2011, 09:09:56 am
Question for the hardcore commuters on here. This week I am working 1500 - 0000 shift but that finish time is very flexible as I could in fact not finish until, well, anytime tbh. If you were in this position would you still commute the 17 miles each way?

I often commute home later than that, and in fact if I didn't, and I was using public transport I'd have to leave earlier, because the sane routes home stop running around midnight.

Driving isn't practical for me, it would probably cost me >£30 a day for congestion charging and more significantly, parking.

Of course my commute is only 12 miles, so not quite as far.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: NeilP on 30 August, 2011, 11:55:30 am
Quote from: TimO on 30 August, 2011, 11:49:53 am
Quote from: oxoneil on 30 August, 2011, 09:09:56 am
Question for the hardcore commuters on here. This week I am working 1500 - 0000 shift but that finish time is very flexible as I could in fact not finish until, well, anytime tbh. If you were in this position would you still commute the 17 miles each way?

I often commute home later than that, and in fact if I didn't, and I was using public transport I'd have to leave earlier, because the sane routes home stop running around midnight.

Driving isn't practical for me, it would probably cost me >£30 a day for congestion charging and more significantly, parking.

Of course my commute is only 12 miles, so not quite as far.

Cost is one of my main considerations actually after the potential of creeping fatigue if finishing later than rostered. If I drive in on my lates week it costs £15-£20 extra. I'm on LPG too so could be worse. Interesting views.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 30 August, 2011, 12:26:56 pm
Quote from: oxoneil on 30 August, 2011, 11:37:41 am
Do you think so? It's a bit of a mind thing really cos if I do finish late I have the comfort of knowing I haven't got an hours ride home but also satisfaction that I have at least done some exercise.

Different circumstances but I've done a bit of combined car/bike commuting in the past, when my wife worked in Chislehurst. I would stick the bike in the car, drive in with her then ride the rest of the way. I always found it a bit of a faff, tbh.

In your situation, I'd want the ride to be long enough to be worthwhile. It's only 17 miles to begin with, so if you knock a chunk off that, it's almost not going to be worth the effort - how far do you have to ride before you consider it to be a meaningful amount of exercise?

Obviously you have doubts about it, so set yourself a realistic target, don't be too ambitious - maybe just plan to ride on half the days. You might feel better about the prospect of a 17 mile ride home at 4am if you know you don't have to do the same again the next day. But no one would think badly of you for choosing not to ride at all. It's not a competition to prove how hardcore a cycling-commuter you are.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 30 August, 2011, 01:34:45 pm
Punctured in Strattford on my extended commute (24 miles) Had 2 new inner-tubes from Decathlon at a great price, which turned out to be size 19 (what sort of tyres are these for ???) and my tyes are 23, so had to get the train to liverpool st and a taxi to work which cost me £14!! By the most direct way it's 3 miles, and he went all through the back streets......I just feel I been shaffted or is that the price of London Taxis.............
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 30 August, 2011, 03:19:02 pm
My legs were a bit heavy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 30 August, 2011, 03:31:26 pm
Quote from: Andyf on 30 August, 2011, 01:34:45 pm
Punctured in Strattford on my extended commute (24 miles) Had 2 new inner-tubes from Decathlon at a great price, which turned out to be size 19 (what sort of tyres are these for ???) and my tyes are 23, so had to get the train to liverpool st and a taxi to work which cost me £14!! By the most direct way it's 3 miles, and he went all through the back streets......I just feel I been shaffted or is that the price of London Taxis.............

Not good! (oh, and you were shafted, and that is the price of London Taxis....)

Are you riding from Hornchurch? Did we meet the other morning for a brief chat around Aldgate-ish (I'd have been on a cream OnOne)? What sort of time do you go through?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 30 August, 2011, 06:39:48 pm
Quote from: Andyf on 30 August, 2011, 01:34:45 pm
......I just feel I been shaffted or is that the price of London Taxis.............

That is alas the price of a London taxi. Still, you probably didn't notice, but the average London Hackney Carriage is actually made out of solid gold and is pulled by unicorns, so the expense isn't entirely unjustified.

I've been to no place on the planet that has more expensive taxis. Even Tokyo taxis are cheaper and they have nice doilies and robo-doors, and you aren't forced to listen to LBC.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Crock of Gold on 30 August, 2011, 10:25:46 pm
Addison Lee drivers are shite. Without indicating one pulled over, drove a few yards slowly and parked, going south just before Evans on the Farringdon Road. This evening about 7. As I past I noticed he was on the mobile.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 30 August, 2011, 10:54:45 pm
Quote from: Crock of Gold on 30 August, 2011, 10:25:46 pm
Addison Lee drivers are shite. Without indicating one pulled over, drove a few yards slowly and parked, going south just before Evans on the Farringdon Road. This evening about 7. As I past I noticed he was on the mobile.
There is usually no need to go through the whole story
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 30 August, 2011, 10:59:48 pm
It really isn't news.  But sorry to hear that you suffered at the hands of one on the extreme end of driving competence, CoG.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 31 August, 2011, 08:04:50 am
Quote
Not good! (oh, and you were shafted, and that is the price of London Taxis....)

Are you riding from Hornchurch? Did we meet the other morning for a brief chat around Aldgate-ish (I'd have been on a cream OnOne)? What sort of time do you go through?

I live in Witham, and normaly get the train to stratford/Liverpool st station and I am normaly on a folding black mountain bike, my extended commute is on my white racer and get off at shenfield and do the 25 miles via Romford/Ilford/Stratford At break-neck speed
I cant remember Chating to any one near Aldgate? I'll keep an eye out for you, except I am normaly going through there at 6:45 ish
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 31 August, 2011, 09:18:20 am
Quote from: Andyf on 31 August, 2011, 08:04:50 am
Quote
Not good! (oh, and you were shafted, and that is the price of London Taxis....)

Are you riding from Hornchurch? Did we meet the other morning for a brief chat around Aldgate-ish (I'd have been on a cream OnOne)? What sort of time do you go through?

I live in Witham, and normaly get the train to stratford/Liverpool st station and I am normaly on a folding black mountain bike, my extended commute is on my white racer and get off at shenfield and do the 25 miles via Romford/Ilford/Stratford At break-neck speed
I cant remember Chating to any one near Aldgate? I'll keep an eye out for you, except I am normaly going through there at 6:45 ish

Probably not, then, but the timing is right. I join the Romford Road at around 6:30-ish give or take, at Manor Park and ride through to North Acton.  I've often got a yacf shirt on, and ride a cream (actually "white glow in the dark") On One Pompetamine with panniers (carradice/altura)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 31 August, 2011, 11:16:14 am
Quote from: Crock of Gold on 30 August, 2011, 10:25:46 pm
Addison Lee drivers

Nuff said.

I had one this morning just stop in the middle of the road ahead of me, about 9am on Walworth Road. Had no idea what his intentions were so I had to proceed very cautiously around him. Bizarre. Didn't notice if the driver was otherwise occupied.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 31 August, 2011, 01:18:59 pm
Well a house move at the weekend means I have escaped my metal box and exchanged the purgatory of the M60/M61/M6/M55 for 11 miles cycle commuting through the lanes around Dunham Massey.

LIFE IS GOOD   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 31 August, 2011, 03:57:31 pm
Well after a few days of pootling along the lanes of France between Paris and Brest, it was back into riding in London - it didn't disappoint and I'm soooo glad to be back.

Lady, not only did you nearly take me out as you cut into my lane, you failed to realise that it was in fact a mandatory bus lane - let's just hope the bus behind me had it's cameras trained on you.

Before pushing your child's pram across the lights - maybe wait until it's the green man.  Ooh wait, no, it was your phone conversation that was more important than your child's life.

Finally, to the van driver who drove down most of High Street Ken with his back doors open spilling tools and materials along the way - when I finally caught up to you at the lights (having nearly caught up twice and banged on the side of the van to attract your attention), don't start asking me what stuff has fallen out - I wasn't taking an inventory, I was too busy avoiding it!  Oh and thanks might have been nice - or maybe you actually didn't give a toss that you'd lost a load of stuff out the back - glad you're not my employee anyway!

Can I go back to France and just ride around forever please?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 31 August, 2011, 04:03:49 pm
(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g111/2daves/IMG_0631.jpg)

I bet Barclays are glad that Boris didn't take the press along this part of CS8.
What a shower of shit!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 01 September, 2011, 07:33:47 am
Bang on cue.  Mist.  Very pretty, if a little chilly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 01 September, 2011, 10:31:53 am
Today

Him: (From behind me) “Hoot!”
Me:  ???

100 yards later.
Me: “Why were you hooting at me back there?”
Him: “I was letting you know I was there.”
Me:   ::-)“If you thought I was deaf, what was the point in hooting?”
Him: “I do lots of cycling yadder yadder blah blah blah………”
 :facepalm: :hand:


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 01 September, 2011, 10:47:49 am
Two punctures this morning, both on the rear tyre.  Forced by traffic through broken glass = instant puncture, but I could have sworn I found all the little buggers embedded in the tyre.  Either I missed one or I was doubly unlucky.  Could have been either, given the 30 minutes between stops.

Still, could have been worse:

(http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6209/6102773006_1427904693_z.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/itsbruce/6102773006/in/photostream)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 01 September, 2011, 11:28:45 am
First day back riding to work after PBP

Ankle still a bit dubious, might give it a rest again tomorrow.  Used the granny ring going to work, I don't think I've ever done that before  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 01 September, 2011, 01:49:09 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 01 September, 2011, 10:47:49 am
Two punctures this morning, both on the rear tyre.  Forced by traffic through broken glass = instant puncture, but I could have sworn I found all the little buggers embedded in the tyre.  Either I missed one or I was doubly unlucky.  Could have been either, given the 30 minutes between stops.

Still, could have been worse:

(http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6209/6102773006_1427904693_z.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/itsbruce/6102773006/in/photostream)


I see Costa are putting skidmarks on their coffee now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 01 September, 2011, 04:11:46 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 01 September, 2011, 10:47:49 am
Two punctures this morning, both on the rear tyre.  Forced by traffic through broken glass = instant puncture, but I could have sworn I found all the little buggers embedded in the tyre.  Either I missed one or I was doubly unlucky.  Could have been either, given the 30 minutes between stops.

Still, could have been worse:

(http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6209/6102773006_1427904693_z.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/itsbruce/6102773006/in/photostream)

Last week I collected FIVE (count'em) punctures all at once - a single rear end leading to a double snakebite. Took a while to sort - should I have had two cups of coffee?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 01 September, 2011, 04:12:26 pm
Quote from: alexb on 31 August, 2011, 04:03:49 pm
(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g111/2daves/IMG_0631.jpg)

I bet Barclays are glad that Boris didn't take the press along this part of CS8.
What a shower of shit!

Ah yes. The stretch along the south side of Battersea Park? Stunning, isn't it. I have never seen traffic like that on that road, but then I never take that route at rush hour because the park is so much nicer...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 01 September, 2011, 08:30:55 pm
Quote from: little miss mac on 01 September, 2011, 04:12:26 pm
Quote from: alexb on 31 August, 2011, 04:03:49 pm
(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g111/2daves/IMG_0631.jpg)

I bet Barclays are glad that Boris didn't take the press along this part of CS8.
What a shower of shit!

Ah yes. The stretch along the south side of Battersea Park? Stunning, isn't it. I have never seen traffic like that on that road, but then I never take that route at rush hour because the park is so much nicer...

Exactly. Why not route the cyclists through the park and spend the money on resurfacing the boundary road? I bet the runners would appreciate that too!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 02 September, 2011, 10:08:25 am
On the ride home last night traversing a rough bit of road...

MrsLurker: "Your backside looks like my legs feel."
Self: "Eh?"
MrsL: "Like jelly"

MrsLurker seemed to think this was funny.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 02 September, 2011, 10:45:33 am
Totally on it this morning. Dancing up the hills like Richard Virenque in his loved-up prime. Cruising on the flat at 25mph. Surfing the green wave on Walworth Road...

On the descent between home and the station, I topped out at 61km/h. On a 69.4" fixed gear, that means I was pedalling somewhat in excess of 180rpm. And it felt like it.

Sweet.  8)

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: NeilP on 02 September, 2011, 11:14:59 am
Quote from: citoyen on 02 September, 2011, 10:45:33 am
Totally on it this morning. Dancing up the hills like Richard Virenque in his loved-up prime. Cruising on the flat at 25mph. Surfing the green wave on Walworth Road...

On the descent between home and the station, I topped out at 61km/h. On a 69.4" fixed gear, that means I was pedalling somewhat in excess of 180rpm. And it felt like it.

Sweet.  8)

d.

Respect, that's not easy to do.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 02 September, 2011, 03:30:14 pm
4 miles into my 7 mile commute In to work I felt that well known feeling of a Bonk coming on.....wtf ???!!!!! last time that happened was after 110 miles on my first 200K audax. Total drain of energy/enthusiasm and that feeling of inner shakes left me peddaling so slowley that my 4 year old son could have scalped me................................
Thankyou to the guys at the London Bicyle workshop on Clerkenwell Road for lending me a spanner last night when I had a mechanical  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 02 September, 2011, 03:46:14 pm
Quote from: Andyf on 02 September, 2011, 03:30:14 pm
4 miles into my 7 mile commute In to work I felt that well known feeling of a Bonk coming on.....wtf ???!!!!! last time that happened was after 110 miles on my first 200K audax. Total drain of energy/enthusiasm and that feeling of inner shakes left me peddaling so slowley that my 4 year old son could have scalped me................................

What supper did you eat last night?
What was your breakfast?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 02 September, 2011, 03:51:38 pm
Quote from: oxoneil on 02 September, 2011, 11:14:59 am
Respect, that's not easy to do.

The bike wanted to go faster but I chickened out and used the brakes. It was starting to get a bit scary...

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 02 September, 2011, 04:05:01 pm
Quote
What supper did you eat last night?
What was your breakfast?

omelette, salad and.....chips, and a fried egg sarnie for breakfast (brown bread)
I have a feeling that me and caffeine are not the best of friends anymore, I try to avoid it, I had a can of diet coke on the last control of the Audax, and this morning I had a big glass of diet coke with my sarnie....don't normally have it in the house any more but it was there and well........
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 02 September, 2011, 04:16:20 pm
You are carb depleted. Either accept this and cycle S-L-O-W-L-Y or carb up!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 02 September, 2011, 04:53:32 pm
Caffeine is also likely to delay or reduce the onset of low blood sugar. I'm with Helly, that's hardly any carbs for an active cyclist.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 02 September, 2011, 06:01:35 pm
Weather so lovely that I slope off work early to enjoy the ride home. 1 mile from home, the rear tyre that I have been meaning to change for a while lets go at the side. Rub-rub-rub-rub-BANG.

Put in an old repaired tube and pump up to minimum, left the brake unlatched for good measure, made it to halfords with some careful riding with the weight a the front. What a crappy selection of tyres they have there (mind you the  roken tyre was a halfords job that only did 1200 ish miles). Phone LBS. Yes they do have what I really want.  Can I make it there I think?

No.

But 2nd tube goes as I am passing home. Right then, wheel off, helmet off, jump in car and drive to LBS.
£75 later a d I am the prowd owner of a pair of Marathon Plus. FTW. Faeries can go F**k off now.

But fitting them will have to wait. I have a very important appointment with a hammock and a cold beer.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 02 September, 2011, 08:40:40 pm
Quote
that's hardly any carbs for an active cyclist.
I didn't mention the 3 cans of cider (after the omelette not the egg sarnie :o)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 02 September, 2011, 09:01:02 pm
A pint of cider is only 15g (dry) - 25g (sweet) of carbs, so that's not very much either.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 02 September, 2011, 09:02:42 pm
Blimey, it got hot in the afternoon!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 02 September, 2011, 09:26:14 pm
Quote from: Andyf on 02 September, 2011, 08:40:40 pm
Quote
that's hardly any carbs for an active cyclist.
I didn't mention the 3 cans of cider (after the omelette not the egg sarnie :o)

Alcohol inhibits the liver producing glucose...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 03 September, 2011, 10:40:24 am
Quote from: hellymedic on 02 September, 2011, 09:26:14 pm
Quote from: Andyf on 02 September, 2011, 08:40:40 pm
Quote
that's hardly any carbs for an active cyclist.
I didn't mention the 3 cans of cider (after the omelette not the egg sarnie :o)

Alcohol inhibits the liver producing glucose...

I am starting to see what my problem might be   :facepalm: yet some times I have had a few drinks the night before and gone out and done a hard, fast ride with no problem (for me that is)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 03 September, 2011, 04:39:41 pm
Glycogen stores take around 48 hours to restock; there's usually enough for an hour's commute but if you've eaten few carbs after longer rides (or partaken of the demon  :demon: drink) you may run out...
Vélocio's rule 'Whilst on the road, avoid alcohol, meat and tobacco' is still sound...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 03 September, 2011, 06:12:18 pm
Doh!  That one should have been totally obvious to me, since I know about the effects of alchomohol on hypos.  I suppose it's because I drink so little I rarely have to worry about this one, even had to look up the carbs in the book instead of knowing them straight up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 03 September, 2011, 06:36:25 pm
The effect of the caffeine in a Diet Coke is possibly rather trivial; the Diet Coke does not contain the 40g sugar a can of full fat coke would supply and give you WINGS!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 03 September, 2011, 07:06:13 pm
I imagine the lack of carbs and the alcohol together will exceed the effect of the caffeine, but there's current research on how caffeine staves off hypos in type Is doing sports.  I took part as a subject in a study on this in a leading sports/diabetes unit, and there's a definite effect.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 03 September, 2011, 09:14:11 pm
Thank you both for your posts, I am having a chuckle that the 'on the commute today' thread has turned in to a 'Andyf's diet' thread ;D I have struggled for years with my diet, being a chef I never eat at the right times, don't want to eat, surrounded by food all day makes you not eat or binge, when I'm not at work I'm fine.......time for a career change.......if only..........
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 03 September, 2011, 09:51:16 pm
:D

Aunty Helly is TEH AWESOMES.  So helpful and caring.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 03 September, 2011, 10:13:32 pm
<blush> I would not claim to be awesome but have started another thread about a vid Wendy posted on FB...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 03 September, 2011, 10:21:40 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 03 September, 2011, 09:51:16 pm
:D

Aunty Helly is TEH AWESOMES.  So helpful and caring.

+1
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: eeymsmo on 05 September, 2011, 08:25:23 am
All good this morning

Heading round the back of burnstump I got a nice rainbow for my efforts, stupidly resisted the urge to ignore work and chase it.

Turned onto the A60 and it all went a bit Febuary in Belgium with the wind, cold, rain and crap off the road. So I went a different route to pull in the nearest bit of cobbled road I could.

Only near miss was the idiot in the diesel BMW 'M3' with the non central white stripes who nearly caused me to fall off laughing at the sheer pointlessness. It's like me wearing a Cancellara jersey  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 05 September, 2011, 09:12:32 am
Today, I learned STUFF

(1) I learned that my new Panaracer Ribmo tyres have interesting (good) handling characteristics due to the "pointed" shape of the profile, as compared to the balloon slicks I had on previously.

(2) I learned that, due to "complaints received" the Met are making policing the western section of Leadenhall by the roadworks, as cyclists are riding on the pavement for the 30 yards.

(3) At 7 am I learned that riding on that section of pavement even without people, at walking pace earned me a £30 ticket or, optionally, attendance at a police roadshow

(4) I learned that police officers can be polite, cheerful, and embarrassed all at the same time while executing their duty. Quote: "We might well have better things to do with our time" although I had not suggested that this was a waste of their time.

Ho hum.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 05 September, 2011, 10:22:59 am
I was going to warn everybody about that, but you beat me to it  :thumbsup:  The road closed sign was gone, so I kept going up that road behind another cyclist, he went on the pavemant.....so I followed :facepalm: (as you said wide pavement, no people about)
Suddenly a massive police man steps out with ticket pad at the ready, points to the cyclist in front 'your first you get the ticket' points to me 'your lucky carry on going' I walked to the end of the road feeling very lucky, humbled and ashamed :'(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 05 September, 2011, 10:31:31 am
Quote from: Andyf on 05 September, 2011, 10:22:59 am
I was going to warn everybody about that, but you beat me to it  :thumbsup:  The road closed sign was gone, so I kept going

That's what happened to me, too, but I didn't even try to use an excuse.

Quote from: Andyf on 05 September, 2011, 10:22:59 am

Suddenly a massive police man steps out with ticket pad at the ready, points to the cyclist in front 'your first you get the ticket' points to me 'your lucky carry on going' I walked to the end of the road feeling very lucky, humbled and ashamed :'(

Sounds like the same chap, throughly decent and credit to the force.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 05 September, 2011, 11:28:57 am
A bit breezy this morning, eh? *checks with MetOffice*  Eek! Winds gusting over 50kph!  :o  Well, that explains it.

If it's the same this evening I may skip the TPM recce and enjoy the push home.  Also, gusts like that while weaving along the river tend to not be much fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 September, 2011, 11:43:20 am
Fairly stiff wind expected all week.  I benefited from it this morning, and I am grateful.

After touring, I was dreading getting back to Lahndan's horrible, moton-infested roads.  But it was OK.  I rode in early with Butterfly, then got a good pace into work.  I was only passed by one cyclist, and he was running red lights.

OK, so it's going to be a bit grim churning fixed on the way home, but it'll be OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 05 September, 2011, 11:43:53 am
Quote from: Andrij on 05 September, 2011, 11:28:57 am
A bit breezy this morning, eh? *checks with MetOffice*  Eek! Winds gusting over 50kph!  :o  Well, that explains it.

If it's the same this evening I may skip the TPM recce and enjoy the push home.  Also, gusts like that while weaving along the river tend to not be much fun.

The Commercial Road Nooo Bike Speed Trial beckons.......................
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 05 September, 2011, 12:15:31 pm
Quote from: Ham on 05 September, 2011, 11:43:53 am
Quote from: Andrij on 05 September, 2011, 11:28:57 am
A bit breezy this morning, eh? *checks with MetOffice*  Eek! Winds gusting over 50kph!  :o  Well, that explains it.

If it's the same this evening I may skip the TPM recce and enjoy the push home.  Also, gusts like that while weaving along the river tend to not be much fun.

The Commercial Road Nooo Bike Speed Trial beckons.......................

Looking forward to the 500m sprint along the A13 from the A12 to the Canning Town flyover.  Shame I don't have some sort of GPS device (yet) to give me stats just for the sprint.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 05 September, 2011, 12:30:18 pm
Quote from: Ham on 05 September, 2011, 10:31:31 am
Quote from: Andyf on 05 September, 2011, 10:22:59 am
I was going to warn everybody about that, but you beat me to it  :thumbsup:  The road closed sign was gone, so I kept going

That's what happened to me, too, but I didn't even try to use an excuse.

Quote from: Andyf on 05 September, 2011, 10:22:59 am

Suddenly a massive police man steps out with ticket pad at the ready, points to the cyclist in front 'your first you get the ticket' points to me 'your lucky carry on going' I walked to the end of the road feeling very lucky, humbled and ashamed :'(

Sounds like the same chap, throughly decent and credit to the force.

What I meant was that the sign at the turn off in to the road with the road works wasn't there, otherwise I would have gone straight on, Big Red sign was up where the road works started :hand:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 05 September, 2011, 01:01:26 pm
Quote from: Andyf on 05 September, 2011, 12:30:18 pm
Quote from: Ham on 05 September, 2011, 10:31:31 am
Quote from: Andyf on 05 September, 2011, 10:22:59 am
I was going to warn everybody about that, but you beat me to it  :thumbsup:  The road closed sign was gone, so I kept going

That's what happened to me, too, but I didn't even try to use an excuse.

Quote from: Andyf on 05 September, 2011, 10:22:59 am

Suddenly a massive police man steps out with ticket pad at the ready, points to the cyclist in front 'your first you get the ticket' points to me 'your lucky carry on going' I walked to the end of the road feeling very lucky, humbled and ashamed :'(

Sounds like the same chap, throughly decent and credit to the force.

What I meant was that the sign at the turn off in to the road with the road works wasn't there, otherwise I would have gone straight on, Big Red sign was up where the road works started :hand:

Yeah, the history of this one is particularly confusing. Started with Cornhill closed for the previous few weeks - I used to turn right then and come back down Thrreadneedle. Then those works went, and the no through road sign shifted back to  Aldgate / Leadenhall at the start of last week. Tuesday, the whole route was clear, though. Wednesday & thursday the lights and no entry sign went in at the junction, but I went through on the pavement. First day because I was there, second day... no excuse. Today, the sign at Aldgate was gone, so I expected it to be back to normal but it wasn't. It would have been 50/50 which way I would have gone had the sign still been there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 05 September, 2011, 01:01:58 pm
I had a wonderful ride home on Friday.  Instead of the usual A473/A4119 ride I crossed from the Bridgend Industrial estate to the Waterton Industrial estate and was soon riding through Treoes.  I had not ridden this way on a single speed bike before and was surprised how difficult it was to get to the A48 on Crack Hill. I never fancy the A48 so turned ride and left through Colwinston, LLysworney past Llanmiangel, St Mary Church and Llantrithyd to Bonvilston and the A48 again.  Shortly turn off down the hill to Gwern y Steeple and Peterstone Super Ely, past St Brides.  So far I have been riding the final stage of the Glamorgan Glamour.  I decide to check the final hill another time I would not get up it without an easier gear. I continue past St Fagans cricket club and turn for home. Really enjoyed it.

This morning was damp and windy.   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 05 September, 2011, 07:02:54 pm
I had two stupid overtakey-brakeys, then a car ahead that suddenly slowed, became stationary, then flicked the left indicator on!

Minus three points.

Then, I overtook a queue of traffic approaching a roundabout, slotted back in the queue and the driver behind gave me loads of room, didn't overtake on the roundabout as many drivers do, then overtook safely, he got a big thumbs up and

Plus 100 points. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 05 September, 2011, 07:22:58 pm
Broke my flat sprint record going down London wall....30.1mph  :P :P :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 05 September, 2011, 08:23:52 pm
A bit damp on the way home.  :(  That should all have fallen during the day!  Also, the tail wind too often turned into a cross wind.  Only managed 45kph on my sprint, and had to use THE VOICE to stop someone pulling out in front of me.

But riding the new bike was fun.  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MackieHornet on 05 September, 2011, 08:42:43 pm
Mist, ducks in park, car with v wobbly hubcap, a huskie, a tailwind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 September, 2011, 09:27:56 pm
How much traffic? :o

And there was wind.  Plenty of it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 05 September, 2011, 10:33:51 pm
My legs fell off  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 06 September, 2011, 10:35:15 am
It's wet, it's windy, I am on the winter bike which has a broken computer, I have to walk the dog (in the rain) on the way to work, I take the muddy road because of the dog diversion BUT sod it! I am back on the bike after PBP. 

The Achilles problem has cleared up!  Looking forward to the ride home!  My shoes are drying out on the hot air exhaust at the back of my PC
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 06 September, 2011, 11:06:51 am
Mostly enjoyed the ride this morning, despite it being cold and wet. It wasn't actually that cold - I started off wearing my Montane pertex top but had to remove it because I was too warm. So I got a bit wet but hey, it's only water, not poison.

One bit I didn't enjoy was a powerful crosswind gust that came very close to knocking me off as I was bombing along Walworth road at >20mph. Whoa!

I did enjoy passing all the queuing traffic on the route though - and there was lots of it today - thinking how glad I was to be out in the elements rather than cooped up in a tin box.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 06 September, 2011, 11:50:46 am
First commute puncture for a long time last night.  There was a 2-inch nail embedded in the rear tyre.  Somehow it also caused my mudguard to snap at the bridge. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 06 September, 2011, 11:55:14 am
Wet and windy this morning with nice little side gusts. Beats getting the train every time though  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 06 September, 2011, 12:04:51 pm
Well I (more or less) beat the rain on the way in this morning, which can't be bad.

Has anyone else seen the article about Section 56 of the Highways (1980) act on teh Grauniad's bike blog?  Verr interesting..  worth a dekko.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 06 September, 2011, 12:05:45 pm
Cut up by a Corsa who decided she was in the wrong lane, TL's then changed and she slammed the anchors on, she'd left it so late not only did she pass the stop line, the entire vehicle came to a halt past the ASL in the sodding junction. Evasive manouvre not successful, RH hood demolished near side light cluster and i proceeded to tear off the wing mirror as I somersaulted down the near side of the vehicle, to land on my lid.

I'm ok apart from a few lumps, bumps, cuts and bruises. More importantly the bike has not a mark on it,  my lid is a total write off but we won't get into that on here.

I'll leave you to guess what the silly cow's first words were............... ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 06 September, 2011, 12:11:54 pm
Well as long as the bike's OK. :)

Joking apart; get yourself checked over by a medic soonest.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 06 September, 2011, 12:12:35 pm
That's alarming reading.
We are relieved to read that the damage is limited to lumps & bruises.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RichL on 06 September, 2011, 12:14:15 pm
My rear brake cable snapped at some speed in a downpour. Luckily quiet road and no harm done. Getting home will be fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 06 September, 2011, 12:32:55 pm
Quote from: Si_Co on 06 September, 2011, 12:05:45 pm
I'll leave you to guess what the silly cow's first words were............... ::-)

FFS!  >:(

I don't know what it is about the rain but it seems to make drivers even more aggressive and even less careful than usual. It's perverse. I saw some idiotic behaviour out on the roads this morning. Fortunately, none of it affected me, though I did have one car slam on the brakes at the last moment just before a pinch point, to abort her intended overtaking manoeuvre - she would have hit either me or the road furniture otherwise.

Glad to hear you're not too badly hurt, but to echo Lurker, do get yourself checked out.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 06 September, 2011, 12:35:54 pm
Last night ride home was a little problematic.  At five miles I thought there was something wrong with my pedal or shoe. I clipped in and out, no change. At eight miles I stop but cannot see anything wrong with the pedal or shoe. At ten miles I turn out of School Road, Miskin onto the A4119 and as I start to climb to the Castell Mynach I hear a quiet crack and my foot is free with the pedal attached to my shoe with the top of the cranks pedal hole. I admit that I pushed the my bike up the steep sections of the Corey line bridge, Rhyd Lafa-Radyr hill, and Radyr golf course lane. Single speed and my left leg are not good enough. I arrive home ten minutes later than usual.

This morning was also a tough ride.  I am on my new bike still not finished after a year. I tied the lamp wire down. I have a barley fitted with quick release.  I have never ridden the bike with this before. Unfortuately I have a short seat post and the buckles of the barley stick into my bottom as I ride. The other problem.  This bike has flat bars and rapid fire gears.  So to get a easier gear I push with my thumb. Unfortuantely I normally ride campy ergos where a push of the thumb releases cable to a high gear.  I got it wrong alot. It was wet, windy, a rucksack on my back, and a pricked bottom so not a nice ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 06 September, 2011, 12:41:23 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 06 September, 2011, 12:32:55 pm

Glad to hear you're not too badly hurt, but to echo Lurker, do get yourself checked out.

d.

Cheers, our resident medic has had a look at me and decided I'm still ugly but other than that since I know what day it is, can count fingers and have no unexpected pains he thinks I'll live. Mrs S has delivered a spare lid so I'm good to go again but suspect I'm gonna be sore in the morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 06 September, 2011, 12:56:11 pm
On my commute there is a downhill two lane one way street. LH lane alwasy occupied by parked cars, so I take the center of the RH lane. There is only enough room for a car to pass if I go and occupy the door zone on the LHS.

This AM, hear revving behind me, I glance back to see a car attempting to squeeze past on the RHS, so I signal and move out a little to stop him. This is followed by a long blast on the horn. Cue look back and paddington hard stare.

I continue to take the lane until turning off at the bottom when there are no parked cars and it is (reasonably) safe to pass, so I move over. Cock screams past at about 8000rpm.

 ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 06 September, 2011, 01:46:44 pm
Quote from: Si_Co on 06 September, 2011, 12:05:45 pm
Cut up by a Corsa who decided she was in the wrong lane, TL's then changed and she slammed the anchors on, she'd left it so late not only did she pass the stop line, the entire vehicle came to a halt past the ASL in the sodding junction. Evasive manouvre not successful, RH hood demolished near side light cluster and i proceeded to tear off the wing mirror as I somersaulted down the near side of the vehicle, to land on my lid.

I'm ok apart from a few lumps, bumps, cuts and bruises. More importantly the bike has not a mark on it,  my lid is a total write off but we won't get into that on here.

I'll leave you to guess what the silly cow's first words were............... ::-)

That's not a guess, SMIDSY is a dead cert!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 06 September, 2011, 01:54:53 pm
Quote from: Si_Co on 06 September, 2011, 12:05:45 pm
I'll leave you to guess what the silly cow's first words were............... ::-)

"I'm terribly sorry, I have a valid reason for going too fast and red light jumping.  There is an alien invasion half a mile that way and only I have the psionic powers that can stop them.  I have to travel by Corsa and not by teleporting to gain the element of surprise.  Please take my card and charge any damage expenses on your bike to MI5.  Here is a large cake to make your day a little better.  Now I must rush, world to save doncha know"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 06 September, 2011, 02:56:48 pm
Quote from: vorsprung on 06 September, 2011, 01:54:53 pm
Quote from: Si_Co on 06 September, 2011, 12:05:45 pm
I'll leave you to guess what the silly cow's first words were............... ::-)

"I'm terribly sorry, I have a valid reason for going too fast and red light jumping.  There is an alien invasion half a mile that way and only I have the psionic powers that can stop them.  I have to travel by Corsa and not by teleporting to gain the element of surprise.  Please take my card and charge any damage expenses on your bike to MI5.  Here is a large cake to make your day a little better.  Now I must rush, world to save doncha know"

POTD!?  ;D ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 06 September, 2011, 04:07:10 pm
Quote from: hellymedic on 06 September, 2011, 02:56:48 pm
Quote from: vorsprung on 06 September, 2011, 01:54:53 pm
Quote from: Si_Co on 06 September, 2011, 12:05:45 pm
I'll leave you to guess what the silly cow's first words were............... ::-)

"I'm terribly sorry, I have a valid reason for going too fast and red light jumping.  There is an alien invasion half a mile that way and only I have the psionic powers that can stop them.  I have to travel by Corsa and not by teleporting to gain the element of surprise.  Please take my card and charge any damage expenses on your bike to MI5.  Here is a large cake to make your day a little better.  Now I must rush, world to save doncha know"

POTD!?  ;D ;D

I'd second that, and yes helly you were spot on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 06 September, 2011, 08:29:41 pm
I was doing a 20-mile (as the crow flies) commute while on *sort-of* holiday.  30 miles by road - in a hire car; I haven't got a bike with me.  Just as I'd decided to take the dual carriageway rather than the "old road", I was confronted by a sea of tail-lights.  A smash on the A30 - 205GTI-shopping-trolley had clipped the rear of a tractor towing hay-bales.  So a 40-min commute turned into 80 mins.  This is why I don't travel by car if I can possibly help it.

This morning was, in some ways, worse.  Torrential driving rain in every direction at once.  So I set off really early, expecting a slow journey.  All other road users, it seems, were of the "this is horrible, I'll get out of it as soon as possible" mindset.  Average speeds on the Cornwall-spineway (A30) were higher in the wet than in the dry.

{Mods - Move to the motorists' thread if you think necessary.}
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 07 September, 2011, 08:30:52 am
On my commute today, I surprised myself. I was expecting a sluggish grind into the wind, but it wasn't too bad. I felt light and relatively unaffected. I was STRONG. And then I stopped for my brekkie break in Hyde Park, went to get my little brekkie bar  and discovered I'd left my airbrakes panniers at home  :facepalm:

Thankfully a little stall in Shepherds Bush Market was open before 8...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 07 September, 2011, 10:15:19 am
Approaching a roundabout, there are already a couple of cars queuing, van coming up behind me starts gunning it, desperate to get past. I'm in primary, holding my position and refusing to let him push me into the gutter. He's still accelerating, even though we're now just a few feet from the queuing cars. He realises at the last moment he's not going to get past and slams on the brakes before he hits the street furniture. I'm already past the queue and filtering onto the roundabout when he hoots his horn.

Approaching the next roundabout, I hear him coming up behind. I know it's him because the sound of an engine revving into the red suggests someone giving chase. He passes me then swerves in sharply and slams on the brakes, forcing me to brake hard. "Here we go..." I think, but he carries on his way rather than confront me. For which I admit I am relieved.

But I'm suitably impressed, of course. Big man.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 September, 2011, 10:18:20 am
*sigh*

Similar here.  But I'd forgotten till I read your post.  Just such pathetic willy-waving every ride in this damn place. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 07 September, 2011, 10:49:58 am
It's a classic case of believing cyclist==slow, and thus feeling the need to pass the cyclist at all costs. Even though there's traffic just a few feet ahead...  :facepalm:

I wouldn't mind so much if they'd just man up and accept it was their error.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 07 September, 2011, 10:58:19 am
Had the same experience coming up Dark Hill in Richmond Park this morning. Car driver took exception to me delaying him and performed a very close pass followed by swerving in on me before pulling away.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 07 September, 2011, 11:06:34 am
Quote from: citoyen on 07 September, 2011, 10:49:58 am
It's a classic case of believing cyclist==slow, and thus feeling the need to pass the cyclist at all costs. Even though there's traffic just a few feet ahead...  :facepalm:

I wouldn't mind so much if they'd just man up and accept it was their error.

d.

Yesterday, I'm approaching a t-junction with my arm thrust out and indicating left. The t-junction is with a busy main road. There's a car behind me, doing the frustrated revving thing. There's no space to get by me because of the parked cars. Bear in mind, they've only been behind me for seconds, and the junction is about 25 metres away.

Of course, about 10 metres from the junction the road opens up, so the car behind just has to overtake right there and then. So it ends up on the wrong side of the road at the junction. Indicating right. Effectively stuck there waiting for a gap in traffic. I just shake my head and take my left turn. A few seconds later beep beep BEEP because a car wants to turn in from the main road. A few hundred metres later I look back to see even more cars queueing and she's still there.

I've no idea what flits through their minds.

Mum with kids in the back too. Obligatory Bromley 4x4.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 07 September, 2011, 11:11:11 am
Quote from: ian on 07 September, 2011, 11:06:34 am
Quote from: citoyen on 07 September, 2011, 10:49:58 am
It's a classic case of believing cyclist==slow, and thus feeling the need to pass the cyclist at all costs. Even though there's traffic just a few feet ahead...  :facepalm:

I wouldn't mind so much if they'd just man up and accept it was their error.

d.

Yesterday, I'm approaching a t-junction with my arm thrust out and indicating left. The t-junction is with a busy main road. There's a car behind me, doing the frustrated revving thing. There's no space to get by me because of the parked cars. Bear in mind, they've only been behind me for seconds, and the junction is about 25 metres away.

Of course, about 10 metres from the junction the road opens up, so the car behind just has to overtake right there and then. So it ends up on the wrong side of the road at the junction. Indicating right. Effectively stuck there waiting for a gap in traffic. I just shake my head and take my left turn. A few seconds later beep beep BEEP because a car wants to turn in from the main road. A few hundred metres later I look back to see even more cars queueing and she's still there.

I've no idea what flits through their minds. vacuum
Mum with kids in the back too. Obligatory Bromley 4x4.

ftfy ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 07 September, 2011, 07:22:28 pm
I rode over a piece of windblown stick on the busy dual-carriageway Stafford Queensway this morning, which promptly removed most of my rear mudguard and got truly jammed inbetween spokes, rack and seatstay. That I managed to unclip and not fall over during the nanosecond in which the bike came to a sharp stop is a miracle. That I also had an 8mm spanner to undo the mangled remains of mudguard stay was lucky.

Phew. You just fix these things and ride on, but I'm sure my heart was still pounding half an hour later.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 September, 2011, 07:40:16 pm
Glad you weren't hurt.  Sticks can force a very abrupt halt.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 08 September, 2011, 09:12:48 am
Still dry and the wind has eased up!  :thumbsup:  Without the wind I would easily have managed over 25kph.

Less than 100km on the new bike and the gear cables are already showing signs of stretching.  Must remember to adjust them before I go climbing Sunday morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 September, 2011, 09:20:18 am
I was fully expecting another day of strong wind, and the Met office just yesterday were suggesting it was going to be pretty gusty, so it was a pleasant surprise to find a mild and fairly even tailwind.  I'll be riding into it all the way home tonight, but at least it won't be as bad as the last couple of days, which have been spirit-sapping.

Not a bad ride in today.  A few numpties, and lots of motor traffic jamming things up with their fat arses.

And I jumped a red light :-[

Well, hopped, if you will, as I stopped with my front wheel over the line before reversing.  I was following a bus, which was moving forward slowly, and had passed a traffic light, which I hadn't been able to see.  As there was no accelerating or braking, I assumed the light would be at worst amber, but it had clearly been red when the bus rolled through, so I slammed on all three anchors.  I may have a slightly bald(er) patch on my rear tyre.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 08 September, 2011, 09:47:49 am
Quote from: clarion on 08 September, 2011, 09:20:18 am
I was fully expecting another day of strong wind, and the Met office just yesterday were suggesting it was going to be pretty gusty, so it was a pleasant surprise to find a mild and fairly even tailwind.  I'll be riding into it all the way home tonight, but at least it won't be as bad as the last couple of days, which have been spirit-sapping.
Metcheck shows windspeeds dropping to 8-10 mph w/sw this afternoon for Glos, should imagine it won't be very much different for nodnoL so it won't be as grim as it has been.

Been a good week for me from that point of view, only about half the workbound trip each day has been pure headwind and the hedges are still in full leaf so side winds have been significantly moderated. The homeward rides have been *cough* a breeze.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 08 September, 2011, 11:29:20 am
Quote
Dear Addison Lee

I was cycling to B***** Library where I work and as I was turning right to get onto Little Boltons (SW5) a car was beeping at me. As I was indicating right and had positioned myself into primary I was loathe to understand what the issue was.

In the next moment the car driver (registration number LM11 UNS)
tried to force his way past me by moving his vehicle towards my back wheel, and upon finding that he could not prevent me from changing my position on the road tried to shunt me from the side*.

It was extremely threatening and intimidating behaviour from your driver and if I do not hear any feedback from yourselves then I shall be obliged to report him to the Metropolitan Police Road Safe Team as I believe that he should not be driving, least of all representing your company.

Yours faithfully

her_welshness

*At this point I roared and snarled like a lion at him, I swear to God that I did frighten two of the girls who were on the street.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 September, 2011, 11:35:34 am
*engages 'Death Wish' mode*

*loads shotgun*

*searches out AL vehicle*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 08 September, 2011, 11:37:04 am
Quote
I believe that he should not be ... representing your company.

Sorry, dear, but you're mistaken.  AL only hires drivers who operate their vehicles with reckless abandon and contempt for anyone and anything which may delay their journey, even for a fraction of a second.  So, you see, the driver you encountered is a perfect representative of his company.

If you ever see an AL vehicle being driven with consideration and due regard to THE LAW please report the driver to his superiors immediately, as he may tarnish the reputation of the company.

HTH   ;D

:-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 08 September, 2011, 12:15:27 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 08 September, 2011, 11:37:04 am

If you ever see an AL vehicle being driven with consideration and due regard to THE LAW please report the driver to his superiors immediately, as he may tarnish the reputation of the company.

HTH   ;D

:-*


I'd call the Police immediately as it's more likely to have been stolen :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 08 September, 2011, 12:26:15 pm
I had yesterday on the sick after my off. Still abit sore but and some lovely shades of purple on my face but on the mend.

Today I was expecting a day of wind and rain but a ride a lovely still morning made today's commute a pleasure despite a nervy moment going through the junction where I was performing aerobatics on Tuesday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 08 September, 2011, 12:28:06 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 08 September, 2011, 11:29:20 am
Quote
Dear Addison Lee

I was cycling to B***** Library where I work and as I was turning right to get onto Little Boltons (SW5) a car was beeping at me. As I was indicating right and had positioned myself into primary I was loathe to understand what the issue was.

In the next moment the car driver (registration number LM11 UNS)
tried to force his way past me by moving his vehicle towards my back wheel, and upon finding that he could not prevent me from changing my position on the road tried to shunt me from the side*.

It was extremely threatening and intimidating behaviour from your driver and if I do not hear any feedback from yourselves then I shall be obliged to report him to the Metropolitan Police Road Safe Team as I believe that he should not be driving, least of all representing your company.

Yours faithfully

her_welshness

*At this point I roared and snarled like a lion at him, I swear to God that I did frighten two of the girls who were on the street.

Commiserations, poor you.  :(

*dislikes AL*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 08 September, 2011, 03:08:46 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 08 September, 2011, 12:28:06 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 08 September, 2011, 11:29:20 am
Quote
Dear Addison Lee

I was cycling to B***** Library where I work and as I was turning right to get onto Little Boltons (SW5) a car was beeping at me. As I was indicating right and had positioned myself into primary I was loathe to understand what the issue was.

In the next moment the car driver (registration number LM11 UNS)
tried to force his way past me by moving his vehicle towards my back wheel, and upon finding that he could not prevent me from changing my position on the road tried to shunt me from the side*.

It was extremely threatening and intimidating behaviour from your driver and if I do not hear any feedback from yourselves then I shall be obliged to report him to the Metropolitan Police Road Safe Team as I believe that he should not be driving, least of all representing your company.

Yours faithfully

her_welshness

*At this point I roared and snarled like a lion at him, I swear to God that I did frighten two of the girls who were on the street.

Commiserations, poor you.  :(

*dislikes AL*

Ha - loved the comments Clarion and Andrij. Thanks Mikey :thumbsup:

I've never had any kind of incident with AL, but had heard so many stories from folk on here.

I find it terrifying that I am able to switch myself off from it afterwards. That after turning into a roaring, shrieking harpy that I turn calm instantly. I think it was because I was repeating the registration number like a mantra.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 08 September, 2011, 03:20:41 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 08 September, 2011, 11:29:20 am
Quote
Dear Addison Lee

I was cycling to B***** Library where I work and as I was turning right to get onto Little Boltons (SW5) a car was beeping at me. As I was indicating right and had positioned myself into primary I was loathe to understand what the issue was.

In the next moment the car driver (registration number LM11 UNS)
tried to force his way past me by moving his vehicle towards my back wheel, and upon finding that he could not prevent me from changing my position on the road tried to shunt me from the side*.

It was extremely threatening and intimidating behaviour from your driver and if I do not hear any feedback from yourselves then I shall be obliged to report him to the Metropolitan Police Road Safe Team as I believe that he should not be driving, least of all representing your company.

Yours faithfully

her_welshness

*At this point I roared and snarled like a lion at him, I swear to God that I did frighten two of the girls who were on the street.

He was probably on an emergency, delivering blood, or some such. Maybe he was just collecting it.

Hope you get some joy from AL, glad you're OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 08 September, 2011, 04:21:32 pm
Travelling by private hire vehicle is safer than riding a bike.Citation needed

Addison Lee drivers have instructions to "Keep The Statistics Favourable".

*hugs*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 08 September, 2011, 04:27:22 pm
Apropos of AL...

Reminds me of the comment I made to a postie in a van who roared around our street corner the other week - I didn't think the intention of 'proudly sponsoring Barnardos' (as it declares on the back of their vans) extended to making more orphans for them to look after. Which, given his driving, seemed to have been his interpretation.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: chrisonabike on 08 September, 2011, 04:45:23 pm
yesterday I must have missed the news that in West London there was a gathering of Londons shittest drivers - they were all there - mr overtake then suddenly slow down; mrs non functioning indicators, mr im on my phone how dare you complain that i nearly drove straight into you in my shit van you cycling scum etc. Finally I had a very close encounter with someone who overtook me twice within centimetres. I caught up with him, managed to hold my composure, tapped on the window and said "you were too close back there". i was taken aback by an immediate apology which amazingly made all the difference. Could have been so different had I gone into bereseker mode and hurled a load of expletives etc. Maybe the calm and reasoned approach really does work.

Made me wonder though - whats worse - a driver whose aggressive but predictable (revving engine, horn tooting, verbals etc)  or a just plain shit driver who somehow managed to pass their driving test but has no road sense, spatial awareness  and low technical driving ability).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 08 September, 2011, 04:51:00 pm
Quote from: chrisonabike on 08 September, 2011, 04:45:23 pm
yesterday I must have missed the news that in West London there was a gathering of Londons shittest drivers - they were all there - mr overtake then suddenly slow down; mrs non functioning indicators, mr im on my phone how dare you complain that i nearly drove straight into you in my shit van you cycling scum etc. Finally I had a very close encounter with someone who overtook me twice within centimetres. I caught up with him, managed to hold my composure, tapped on the window and said "you were too close back there". i was taken aback by an immediate apology which amazingly made all the difference. Could have been so different had I gone into bereseker mode and hurled a load of expletives etc. Maybe the calm and reasoned approach really does work.

Made me wonder though - whats worse - a driver whose aggressive but predictable (revving engine, horn tooting, verbals etc)  or a just plain shit driver who somehow managed to pass their driving test but has no road sense, spatial awareness  and low technical driving ability).

And the great thing is, Chrisonabike, you don't have to choose between the two types. You can have both.

(actually, give me a predictable driver any day of the week. Much as though I try not to, I depend on an amount of predictability every day, I think we all do)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Palinurus on 08 September, 2011, 07:24:51 pm
This morning I saw some kind of builder riding a BSO to work, wearing an empty-looking rucksack with a spirit level sticking out of it. That's good. I like to see people riding to work, I don't normally see many.

But why do they always have their own spirit level? are spirit levels like guitars?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 08 September, 2011, 07:36:59 pm
Quote from: Palinurus on 08 September, 2011, 07:24:51 pm
But why do they always have their own spirit level?
So they can ride straight to work. :D

I'll get my coat...

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 08 September, 2011, 07:40:33 pm
Quote from: Palinurus on 08 September, 2011, 07:24:51 pm
But why do they always have their own spirit level? are spirit levels like guitars?
I dunno - can't say I've ever tried to get a tune out of a spirit level1

1 - applying it with extreme force to a luser's skull doesn't count.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 08 September, 2011, 08:14:25 pm
Quote from: Palinurus on 08 September, 2011, 07:24:51 pm
This morning I saw some kind of builder riding a BSO to work, wearing an empty-looking rucksack with a spirit level sticking out of it. That's good. I like to see people riding to work, I don't normally see many.

But why do they always have their own spirit level? are spirit levels like guitars?

Typically this will be a brickie, and as such a level is an absolute requirement for him/her to do their job. The contractor won't provide tools for the builders 'cos tools are v expensive and go 'missing' too regularly. Therefore the brickie provides their own level and looks after it tenderly, 'cos if it breaks or goes missing, it's money out of their own pocket.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 September, 2011, 08:28:07 pm
Quote from: interzen on 08 September, 2011, 07:40:33 pm
Quote from: Palinurus on 08 September, 2011, 07:24:51 pm
But why do they always have their own spirit level? are spirit levels like guitars?
I dunno - can't say I've ever tried to get a tune out of a spirit level1

1 - applying it with extreme force to a luser's skull doesn't count.

They're hard to tune, cause they're always flat.

My coat's next to rower's...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bloomers100 on 08 September, 2011, 09:04:24 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 08 September, 2011, 11:29:20 am
Quote
Dear Addison Lee

I was cycling to B***** Library where I work and as I was turning right to get onto Little Boltons (SW5) a car was beeping at me. As I was indicating right and had positioned myself into primary I was loathe to understand what the issue was.

In the next moment the car driver (registration number LM11 UNS)
tried to force his way past me by moving his vehicle towards my back wheel, and upon finding that he could not prevent me from changing my position on the road tried to shunt me from the side*.

It was extremely threatening and intimidating behaviour from your driver and if I do not hear any feedback from yourselves then I shall be obliged to report him to the Metropolitan Police Road Safe Team as I believe that he should not be driving, least of all representing your company.

Yours faithfully

her_welshness

*At this point I roared and snarled like a lion at him, I swear to God that I did frighten two of the girls who were on the street.

I would urge you to report this regardless and to seek regular progress reports from the Met. A shocking incident.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Palinurus on 09 September, 2011, 01:58:05 pm
Quote from: hatler on 08 September, 2011, 08:14:25 pm
Quote from: Palinurus on 08 September, 2011, 07:24:51 pm
This morning I saw some kind of builder riding a BSO to work, wearing an empty-looking rucksack with a spirit level sticking out of it. That's good. I like to see people riding to work, I don't normally see many.

But why do they always have their own spirit level? are spirit levels like guitars?

Typically this will be a brickie, and as such a level is an absolute requirement for him/her to do their job. The contractor won't provide tools for the builders 'cos tools are v expensive and go 'missing' too regularly. Therefore the brickie provides their own level and looks after it tenderly, 'cos if it breaks or goes missing, it's money out of their own pocket.

Thanks, I've seen quite a few recently (there's a fair bit of construction going on at Leavesden Studios- the studio redevelopment itself and some housing- I ride past on my way to work).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tigerrr on 09 September, 2011, 04:01:50 pm
Quote from: Palinurus on 09 September, 2011, 01:58:05 pm
Quote from: hatler on 08 September, 2011, 08:14:25 pm
Quote from: Palinurus on 08 September, 2011, 07:24:51 pm
This morning I saw some kind of builder riding a BSO to work, wearing an empty-looking rucksack with a spirit level sticking out of it. That's good. I like to see people riding to work, I don't normally see many.

But why do they always have their own spirit level? are spirit levels like guitars?

Typically this will be a brickie, and as such a level is an absolute requirement for him/her to do their job. The contractor won't provide tools for the builders 'cos tools are v expensive and go 'missing' too regularly. Therefore the brickie provides their own level and looks after it tenderly, 'cos if it breaks or goes missing, it's money out of their own pocket.

Thanks, I've seen quite a few recently (there's a fair bit of construction going on at Leavesden Studios- the studio redevelopment itself and some housing- I ride past on my way to work).

He is on the night shift and he has nicked the level. At least that is what the builders do when the work on my house.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 09 September, 2011, 06:46:07 pm
<smug mode>

A full house! For the first time in ...some... Years  ;D ;D

And even more amazing (for me anyway) was that the faeries were defeated by the marathon plusses  ;D ;D

</smug mode>
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 09 September, 2011, 06:53:22 pm
Another one with a full house here.  Four out of the five were on the new bike. :)  (Tuesday's weather was too vile).

Got talking to a fixie chick on the way in to work this morning, started with me complimenting here on her bike.  She was riding a lovely Bob Jackson, in green, with barber pole seat tube and wood rear mudguard.  I was almost jealous.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 September, 2011, 08:05:43 pm
I just completed my first fixed full house since early July.  I am knackered, but I think that may have something to do with the early starts :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 09 September, 2011, 08:21:03 pm
& your illness of last week
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 September, 2011, 08:22:15 pm
Well, that too, I suppose.  I'm getting better slowly, mind. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 09 September, 2011, 10:08:16 pm
Making my way back from Bodmin to the coast, and the hire car conked out with 3 miles to go.

I managed to coast it to a layby, and called Hertz's magic number which put me through to the AA.  55 mins later, Brian arrived in his big yellow van.  60 mins after that, Brian admitted defeat (some of this time was spent trying to find the car's diagnostic port, and re-booting his special car computer) and decided to tow the car back to the nearest Hertz outpost.  Given that all I wanted the car for was, well, filling it with fuel and taking it back to where I'd hired it (Truro), I told Hertz that I didn't want a replacement car, and could Brian drop me off at the pub in my village?

I've looked up the bus and train times for tomorrow, and will be able to get home to Derby by early evening, including using the preserved line.  (Not steam - they're running a class 50 tomorrow; watch this space for new posts in the "Trainspotting" thread.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 09 September, 2011, 10:57:15 pm
Thank deity its over.  Four days this week I commuted with a rucksack.  On Monday my crank snapped so I had to use Pink White and Blue bike (PWB) which was rackless.  Today I heard the replacement crank had arrived at LBS and a rack arrived at work which I fitted to PWB bike lunchtime. So one final commute home with rucksack and hopefully never again.

 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 12 September, 2011, 08:05:55 am
Changed my route this morning to keep the wind on my back a little longer, an extra 2.5 miles but worth it for a quartering tail wind as opposed to quartering headwind, can see this becoming regular this week. All in all damn good fun  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 12 September, 2011, 08:19:59 am
You mean this wind wasn't head on for some people? Lucky so and sos.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 12 September, 2011, 08:28:22 am
I love nothing better than boring into a headwind on the recumbent.  Except for that and finding a victim on an upright to pass that is.  I do feel slightly sorry for you guys when the wind gets like this.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 September, 2011, 08:46:36 am
No.  No.  It's fine.  We love it like this.

*grits teeth & changes down* ;D

Actually, I rode in with Butterfly, and we had a 17mph tailwind.  Which was nice.  I'm not necessarily looking forward to the ride home, especially since I need a new cassette on the tourer, being as the most commonly used (natch) sprockets are too worn for the new chain :(  Helped that I could do the whole ride in at least one gear up on normal, so I could keep on a better sprocket.  Good thing that I had the nous to glue the BB a mm or so proud so that the chain doesn't catch on the big ring when I'm running middle ring-2nd sprocket.  May be that the headwind tonight means I shall be so far below normal gearing that the worn sprocket will be irrelevant.

Ah well - good ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 12 September, 2011, 09:31:52 am
16 miles of headwind. Hard work slightly late.  Plaudits to those further North who are taking the full force of this first end of year storm.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 12 September, 2011, 09:35:33 am
Too. Much. Wind.  :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 12 September, 2011, 10:07:18 am
blazin' tailwind in, a bit of rain and a bit of sun
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smurphboy on 12 September, 2011, 10:10:02 am
Very warm and windy this morning. Even managed to time it so the sun was out.

Fearing the headwind on the way home though, might try my sheltered route back. It really is autumn now, isn't it?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 12 September, 2011, 10:39:23 am
Oof, that was quite tough going along the Chelsea Embankment this morning. Looking forward though to watching the commuters coming back along that route this evening  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 12 September, 2011, 10:59:05 am
My ride from home to the station was wind-assisted to the tune of 30mph and I'm sure I would have comfortably set a PB but for the fact that I was held up on the descent into town by a bloody bus that was unable to get round a load of parked cars.  >:(

Took a comical tumble as I arrived at the station. I wanted to get a paper at the newsagent across the road but it was moments before the train was due so I had to hurry. Took a shortcut across the grass and hit the edge of the footpath at too fine an angle, so the bike went sideways while I carried on forwards, much to the alarm of an old lady passing by. Fortunately, I landed in a judo roll stylee on the grass, so no harm done. Except to my pride.  :-[

The ride from Bromley to Southwark was interesting. I was expecting the wind to be behind me all the way, but it was somewhat swirly and blustery, so I had it coming at me from all directions. And a bit damp too - not full on rain but some light drizzle. Wasn't at all cold though - even had to take a layer off.

Got into a bit of a Tour de Commute race along Walworth Road with some dude on a nice yellow Apollo (not Halfords, the other one). He eventually admitted defeat by jumping a red light.  ::-)

Of course, I caught him again a bit further along the road.  :smug:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 12 September, 2011, 12:16:26 pm
*Not exactly a commute as I was riding to the job centre to sign on but the closest I get these days*

Headwind. Muchos headwind.
Commendation to Hughes Electricals who, despite being in a queue of traffic all of whom overtook me on blind piece of road with varying degrees of generosity, held well back until it was actually clear to pass.

Chap in Jobcentre to sweaty fat cyclist: How is it today?
Me: Windy
C-i-J: And you?
Me: Not so windy. Luckily.
C-i-J raises an eyebrow
Me: rapidly recounts job seeking precis, nervously.

Home again in double quick time, spinning out down the slightest slope.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RJ on 12 September, 2011, 01:00:51 pm
20% slower due to wind, I reckon.  Met Office "be prepared" severe weather warning covers S Scotland just now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 12 September, 2011, 02:39:33 pm
Near miss with a large black car - R8 ULA - that was veering around the road including in and out of a cycle lane.  Driver had a sheath of papers propped up on the wheel and a mobile phone in hand.  At next traffic lights driver did the classic "staring vacantly ahead as cyclist points out effor of ways" routine.  Then attempted to remove cyclist from path by driving into me. Grr.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 12 September, 2011, 03:53:46 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 12 September, 2011, 02:39:33 pm
Near miss with a large black car - R8 ULA - that was veering around the road including in and out of a cycle lane.  Driver had a sheath of papers propped up on the wheel and a mobile phone in hand.  At next traffic lights driver did the classic "staring vacantly ahead as cyclist points out effor of ways" routine.  Then attempted to remove cyclist from path by driving into me. Grr.

Tosser.

Speaking of which I had a reply back this afternoon from Addison Lee:

Quote
Dear her_welshness,
 
Thank you, for your email. I can confirm I have now investigated your query regarding our driver registration LM11 UNS.
 
With reference to the points you have raised, we have noted your complaint on the driver’s record and this has been referred to our Driver Liaison Manager. The driver will be interviewed regarding the incident and if deemed necessary, retrained at our Driver Training School. This is not the standard of performance we expect from a driver representing Addison Lee. 
 
I totally accept and understand that no employer of Addison Lee should be behaving in this manner with any of our customers. Please be advised we are taking this matter very seriously. I apologise for the inconvenience caused.
 
Regards,

Customer Relations Executive
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 12 September, 2011, 03:56:25 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 12 September, 2011, 02:39:33 pm
Near miss with a large black car - R8 ULA - that was veering around the road including in and out of a cycle lane.  Driver had a sheath of papers propped up on the wheel and a mobile phone in hand.  At next traffic lights driver did the classic "staring vacantly ahead as cyclist points out effor of ways" routine.  Then attempted to remove cyclist from path by driving into me. Grr.


Unbelievable.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 12 September, 2011, 03:59:09 pm
Was carrying a very heavy pack today.  Riding the hoods would have been better for my back, but in the drops was much wiser given the increased wind resistance caused by the pack.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 September, 2011, 04:02:18 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 12 September, 2011, 03:53:46 pm
Addison Lee:

Quote
...our Driver Training School. 

PMSL ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 12 September, 2011, 04:15:12 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 12 September, 2011, 03:53:46 pm
Speaking of which I had a reply back this afternoon from Addison Lee:

Quote
Dear her_welshness,
 
Thank you, for your email. I can confirm I have now investigated your query regarding our driver registration LM11 UNS.
 
With reference to the points you have raised, we have noted your complaint on the driver’s record and this has been referred to our Driver Liaison Manager. The driver will be interviewed regarding the incident and if deemed necessary, retrained at our Driver Training School. This is not the standard of performance we expect from a driver representing Addison Lee. 
 
I totally accept and understand that no employer of Addison Lee should be behaving in this manner with any of our customers. Please be advised we are taking this matter very seriously. I apologise for the inconvenience caused.
 
Regards,

Customer Relations Executive

Except you weren't a customer. More a victim.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 12 September, 2011, 04:17:42 pm
Quote from: clarion on 12 September, 2011, 04:02:18 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 12 September, 2011, 03:53:46 pm
Addison Lee:

Quote
...our Driver Training School. 

PMSL ;D

Yup. That's quite a concept isn't it. Addison Lee and Driver Training School in the same sentence.

This sort of implies that their drivers have to go through their school before they're let out on the roads.

Or maybe the school really does teach them how to pass within 2" of a cyclist at 50mph.

Can't we get a Beeb reporter to go undercover in there for a couple of weeks ?   It should make good telly if nothing else.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 12 September, 2011, 04:53:31 pm
Quote from: hatler on 12 September, 2011, 04:17:42 pm
Quote from: clarion on 12 September, 2011, 04:02:18 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 12 September, 2011, 03:53:46 pm
Addison Lee:

Quote
...our Driver Training School. 

PMSL ;D

Yup. That's quite a concept isn't it. Addison Lee and Driver Training School in the same sentence.

This sort of implies that their drivers have to go through their school before they're let out on the roads.

Or maybe the school really does teach them how to pass within 2" of a cyclist at 50mph.

Can't we get a Beeb reporter to go undercover in there for a couple of weeks ?   It should make good telly if nothing else.

Let's test them then, here we go:

Quote
Dear Addison Lee

Many thanks for getting back to me so promptly with regards to my complaint.

As a campaigner for safer roads I am very pleased that you are so proactive in this area and take it very seriously. I was wondering if it was possible to visit your Driver training School and to see what goes on?

Kind regards

her_welshness
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 12 September, 2011, 05:02:32 pm
Oooh, you beauty!!!   ;D

That's a Cunobelin-worthy response!!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 12 September, 2011, 05:18:35 pm
Brilliant. Can't wait to see the response.

Lesson 1 - attaching the sat nav to the windscreen
Lesson 2 - programming your customer's destination into the sat nav
Lesson 3 - re-programming it every three minutes because you are stuck in traffic or just lost and don't know your way from Marble Arch to Oxford Circus without a screen showing you where to go
Lesson 4 - There is no lesson 4; you've passed the Addison Lee Driver Training Exam
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 12 September, 2011, 05:28:44 pm
 If you're lucky they may even let you be the target at the Driving Training School :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 12 September, 2011, 05:32:07 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 12 September, 2011, 04:53:31 pm
Let's test them then, here we go:

Quote
Dear Addison Lee

Many thanks for getting back to me so promptly with regards to my complaint.

As a campaigner for safer roads I am very pleased that you are so proactive in this area and take it very seriously. I was wondering if it was possible to visit your Driver training School and to see what goes on?

Kind regards

her_welshness

Fantastic !!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 September, 2011, 05:39:46 pm
Good work, sister!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 12 September, 2011, 05:41:00 pm
Chapeau!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: welshwheels on 12 September, 2011, 05:57:01 pm
I got blown about a bit  :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adam on 12 September, 2011, 06:40:50 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 12 September, 2011, 05:18:35 pm
Brilliant. Can't wait to see the response.

Lesson 1 - attaching the sat nav to the windscreen
Lesson 2 - programming your customer's destination into the sat nav
Lesson 3 - re-programming it every three minutes because you are stuck in traffic or just lost and don't know your way from Marble Arch to Oxford Circus without a screen showing you where to go
Lesson 4 - There is no lesson 4; you've passed the Addison Lee Driver Training Exam

I had a little remonstration with an Addison Lee "driver" on Saturday, pointing out he shouldn't be fiddling with his phone whilst driving.  He claimed it was his sat nav so I just told him to leave it alone or he's nicked.  And then, seeing as the car behind was beeping, I zoomed off, leaving him far behind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 September, 2011, 07:54:19 pm
Windy return home.  But I met Butterfly at Eastfields, and we headed back from there together :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gerwinium on 12 September, 2011, 10:10:34 pm
Bit windy today. Especially the bit around the tall buildings around Canary Wharf. They manage to create the effect of the wind coming from all sides at the same time, so leaning in one direction can lead to embarrassing situations 2 seconds later.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 13 September, 2011, 08:00:02 am
Beautiful, absolutely beautiful, hardly a breath of wind, crossing warburton bridge with the sun on one side and the moon on the other with the plain spread spread out in the sun, thats what it's all about.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hulver on 13 September, 2011, 09:51:16 am
A bit of a scare this morning. I was thundering downhill at quite a pace, taking the lane because I was turning right at the roundabout ahead, when a blue VW polo starts overtaking me very slowly.

I say starts, because it didn't finish before it started pulling back in again. The rear back quarter almost hit me but I pulled the brakes on and managed to slow down enough to end up behind the car instead of under it.

My shout of "WHOA!" obviously woke the driver up, because I saw them almost jumping out of their skin. They then slowed, and took the feeder lane to turn left at the roundabout while I overtook them again. Completely pointless left hook.

Gets the heart pumping though. I flew the rest of the way into work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 13 September, 2011, 10:15:23 am
I was near the centre line and pretty much stopped in that slow trackstandish kind of way.  There was a jam and the road narrowed in a way that made overtaking impossible.  So a blue Vauxhall undertook me briskly and close.  I had to move out further to avoid it.  It's all very well saying we should "take the lane" but I was far right of primary and clearly not turning right.  The blue car stopped just ahead of me because that's all it could do after it's undertake.  I couldn't go past it immediately because of the road.

When I could go past, I said through the open window to the woman eating an apple and driving the car, "Nice maneuver".  She angrily mumbled something back with her mouth full that sounded like "Sod off".  Cutting me up gained her nothing.  It was one of those baffling moments trying to work out her motives.

Having considered it though, the awful realization is that she just was not thinking or considering anything much.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 13 September, 2011, 10:21:39 am
Has the wind gone?  Is it safe to venture out again?

Yesterday made me realise that I need to get a shallower-rim front wheel on the fixie commuter - the rims are not super-deep, but enough to make things a little hairy in conditions like yesterday - deep rims definitely don't belong on commuting bikes!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 13 September, 2011, 10:38:15 am
'Twere a bit blustery. I've been out in worse.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 13 September, 2011, 11:28:04 am
Quote from: interzen on 13 September, 2011, 10:38:15 am
'Twere a bit blustery. I've been out in worse.

It felt less blustery today though.

Last nights tailwind was fab - it felt like the Dunwich Dynamo 2011 all over again  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 13 September, 2011, 12:05:50 pm
Is it an urban myth that "Pajero" is Spanish for wanker? Judging by the driver of a Mitsubishi of that ilk, with whom I enjoyed not one but two close calls this morning, I'd say the story must have some basis in truth.

First, she started edging her monstrosity of a vehicle out of a side road while I was tootling along on the main road, forcing me to go wide and into the path of the car behind me that was about to overtake.

Then a short way further up the road, she passed me close enough for me to count the scratches on her wing. None of the other drivers who passed me on the same stretch felt the need get quite so personal about it, not even the driver of the great big artic who frankly needed more space for his vehicle than she did for hers.

I passed her soon after, while she was crawling along in slow-moving traffic. Texting at the same time, of course.  :facepalm:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 13 September, 2011, 12:43:30 pm
I have a dream.

Every new car is built with an in-dashboard video screen.

Everytime the keys are placed into the ignition a five minute video will play reminding the driver of the awesome responsibility they have in their two ton lump of metal to other road users.

The video will only play if there is someone in the driver's seat. The engine cannot be started until the video is over.

If nothing else, it might make people consider using something other than their car for short trips.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 13 September, 2011, 12:52:34 pm
The vehicular equivalent of those anti-piracy ads on legitimate DVDs, then?   :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 13 September, 2011, 12:53:50 pm
Lovely idea, but given that many drivers don't wait for their windscreen to demist before setting off, I suspect it would just lead to a spate of people driving along with a video playing in front of their face.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 13 September, 2011, 12:55:34 pm
Engine not allowed to start until the video is over.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 13 September, 2011, 01:08:09 pm
Quote from: hatler on 13 September, 2011, 12:43:30 pm
I have a dream.

Every new car is built with an in-dashboard video screen. extremely sharp steel spike sticking up from the centre of the steering wheel



 :demon:  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 13 September, 2011, 01:30:56 pm
Quote from: hatler on 13 September, 2011, 12:55:34 pm
Engine not allowed to start until the video is over.

Of course. You've thought it through properly.  :thumbsup:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 13 September, 2011, 01:34:30 pm
Quote from: hatler on 13 September, 2011, 12:55:34 pm
Engine not allowed to start until the video is over.

As with DVDs, those impatient or technically competent enough will find or pay for a way to bypass it.

Everyone else will consider it to be an inherent overhead in car use and tune it out, in the manner of airline safety briefings.  The only likely safety benefit is giving people 5 minutes with nothing better to do than mess with their phone / apply makeup / have a cigarette *before* they drive off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 13 September, 2011, 01:55:56 pm
Quote from: Kim on 13 September, 2011, 01:34:30 pm
Quote from: hatler on 13 September, 2011, 12:55:34 pm
Engine not allowed to start until the video is over.
Everyone else will consider it to be an inherent overhead in car use and tune it out, in the manner of airline safety briefings.  The only likely safety benefit is giving people 5 minutes with nothing better to do than mess with their phone / apply makeup / have a cigarette *before* they drive off.

Which means that they are less likely to do it when they're underway. Got to be good.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 13 September, 2011, 02:01:07 pm
Going like a riding god on the red fixer today, with sufficient speed to make up for my late start.

And then with 5km to go a thumpy feeling from the back wheel. Damn. Puncture. 

Ho hum. Tyre looks a bit knackered too, so I might treat myself to a new one.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 13 September, 2011, 03:54:17 pm
Blimey Charlie!

I've just got an email back from Addison Lee:

Quote
Dear her_welshness,

Thank you, for your email. I can confirm your email has been forwarded onto Alistair Laycock, the Marketing Manger. He will get in touch with you regarding a possible visit.

Regards,

Customer Relations Executive

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gattopardo on 13 September, 2011, 03:59:55 pm
Yawn.

Placate and then fuck all happens

Had the same email.

Quote from: her_welshness on 13 September, 2011, 03:54:17 pm
Blimey Charlie!

I've just got an email back from Addison Lee:

Quote
Dear her_welshness,

Thank you, for your email. I can confirm your email has been forwarded onto Alistair Laycock, the Marketing Manger. He will get in touch with you regarding a possible visit.

Regards,

Customer Relations Executive
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wowbagger on 13 September, 2011, 04:02:34 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 13 September, 2011, 03:54:17 pm
Blimey Charlie!

I've just got an email back from Addison Lee:

Quote
Dear her_welshness,

Thank you, for your email. I can confirm your email has been forwarded onto Alistair Laycock, the Marketing Manger. He will get in touch with you regarding a possible visit.

Regards,

Customer Relations Executive

This post perplexed me. I thought for a moment that Addison Lee was some kind of sleb with whom H_W had been exchanging pleasantries.  :-[

I now know, through the help of Messrs. Goo & Gle, that it is none other than a company of taxi driving types. I think I can guess the rest.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 September, 2011, 04:12:26 pm
'Driving' implies some kind of order and skill.  A gross distortion of what happens with an AL vehicle.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 13 September, 2011, 04:49:49 pm
The prompt to respond to Addison Lee and ask them for a visit to their 'driving school' (I'll leave this in inverted commas until I see otherwise) was from one of the cycle chatters who went to see his local Bus Company and to observe what training they were providing their drivers as well as having a discussion with their directors about his experiences out on the road.

I know its not directly comparable, but it might be an opportunity to present to them (in the most positive way) our concerns. You never know, things could change  ;)

Lynx, did you get an email with a possible invite to their offices, because its not clear to me what was communicated to you by Addison Lee?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gattopardo on 13 September, 2011, 04:55:56 pm
Had a similar email when one of their drivers hit me and then drove off.

Addison Lee, i'm led to believe, pay lowest rates and not very fussy with driving qualifications.  Hence why they seem to be mentioned on motorbike and cycle forums alot.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 September, 2011, 05:01:36 pm
Aye, but H_W has gone further and requested to visit the driving school (see above).  This could be interesting.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 13 September, 2011, 05:29:06 pm
Yegods, it's windy!

I mean, I spent most of the weekend fighting with wind in one form or another, but I was cheating by lying down on the job and had other cyclists to share the work with.  Today I was nipping around west Birmingham on a sensibly-shaped bike, and catching the full effect.  Crawling up hills I'm used to, especially with loaded panniers, but it's distinctly unnerving when there's enough gusting sidewind to make your bike handle with all the predictability of a horse encountering a fully-flagged recumbent for the first time.    :hand:

Still, it was quite fun zooming along the new bypass (I note the bus stops are now pointing the right way, but they still haven't installed the broken glass on the cycle paths) with the wind behind me on the way back.  And I managed to avoid Basil's snow and most of the rain.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 13 September, 2011, 06:49:12 pm
Wind here too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 14 September, 2011, 12:06:50 am
Post-work ride felt very slow, not least thanks to a combination of a stiff headwind and heavy traffic.

The figures on my computer show it to have been a reasonably quick ride. And I made my train with several minutes to spare, even though I was convinced I was going to miss it.

 ???

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 14 September, 2011, 07:03:46 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 13 September, 2011, 04:49:49 pm
The prompt to respond to Addison Lee and ask them for a visit to their 'driving school' (I'll leave this in inverted commas until I see otherwise) was from one of the cycle chatters who went to see his local Bus Company and to observe what training they were providing their drivers as well as having a discussion with their directors about his experiences out on the road.

I know its not directly comparable, but it might be an opportunity to present to them (in the most positive way) our concerns. You never know, things could change  ;)

Lynx, did you get an email with a possible invite to their offices, because its not clear to me what was communicated to you by Addison Lee?

Would be worth finding as many online posts indicating peoples opinions of AL drivers as possible, and taking them in a gert big file. Just so they know the damage to the company "brand"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 14 September, 2011, 08:40:34 am
Oh what a beautiful mo--o-o-o-o-orning  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 14 September, 2011, 08:59:20 am
Back on the bike at last!  rode to work for the first time in two weeks - I've had a nasty virus and a lot of work on. A slow ride, due to the headwind and lack of fitness, but it felt really good.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 14 September, 2011, 12:46:13 pm
My shoulders ache from maintaining a white knuckle grip on the bars in a somewhat vain attempt to keep the bike heading in a straight line, had enough of these silly winds now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 14 September, 2011, 12:59:46 pm
First commute in ages but nice fast ride in, was hoping for a tailwind to compensate for the forecast headwind tonight.

Was reminded why I dislike a West - East morning commute this time of year, the sun is very low in the sky.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 14 September, 2011, 01:01:29 pm
Quote from: Si_Co on 14 September, 2011, 12:46:13 pm
My shoulders ache from maintaining a white knuckle grip on the bars in a somewhat vain attempt to keep the bike heading in a straight line, had enough of these silly winds now.

I know what you mean. I've had to change my route home from the station because my usual route has a sharp descent that starts off sheltered but becomes exposed halfway down. Riding from the sheltered bit into the exposed bit at speeds approaching 30mph is like being hit from the side by a battering ram. Scary.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 14 September, 2011, 02:24:17 pm
Quote from: Ham on 14 September, 2011, 08:40:34 am
Oh what a beautiful mo--o-o-o-o-orning  ;D

It was :D. I rode to an 8.30 dentist appointment, so not strictly a commute. When I arrived the nurse said 'you still ride in the cold? You're mad!'  ???

She wasn't remotely convinced by me saying that I was lovely and warm. ::-)

It was a beautiful ride though :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 14 September, 2011, 02:28:23 pm
Cold?  I was boiling!  Mind you, I CBA to stop & take off my ls jersey ;D

Lovely ride, despite the zillionty-one numpties.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: keeks on 14 September, 2011, 02:44:41 pm
Yeah lovely ride in , although the roadworks at the moment around here are going on and on and on.


Tomorrow promises to usher in an Autumn chill , might have to go 3/4 trews cap'n
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 14 September, 2011, 04:11:19 pm
Cool ride in on the TCR today.  Looking forward to the wind assisted home journey.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 14 September, 2011, 06:54:46 pm
Nice fast run home tonight

On the downside I ran a red-light  :-[. Following a bus but only when I was half way realised the bus had a jumped the lights. Thinking learnt a lesson ???

On the plus side I saw a motorcycle policeman pulling over motorcyclists for riding in the cycle lane  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 14 September, 2011, 07:47:13 pm
Pretty fast tonight.  Each night the wind is decreasing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 14 September, 2011, 07:54:55 pm
Quote from: clarion on 14 September, 2011, 02:28:23 pm
Cold?  I was boiling!  Mind you, I CBA to stop & take off my ls jersey ;D

Lovely ride, despite the zillionty-one numpties.

Cold? I'm still setting off in short sleeves. And I hate being cold when I set off - it is just not there yet. Now -15, that is cold!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 14 September, 2011, 09:20:32 pm
I got the chance to play with a few cyclists on the way home.  There was the RLJing Langster who I kept zooming past (I made sure of this).  Then the whippet on the Orbea who I thought was going to tear my legs off into Tooting, but who I sat behind, just far enough back/to the side to avoid drafting.  I thought it might be rude to overtake him on a tourer.  And he RLJed anyway at the last crossing. :(

Then there was the chap at Eastfields - a regular commuter, I'd guess, though I didn't recognise him.  I waited patiently as he rode through the one way, then he took the faster (but more stressful) route through the crossroads.  I waited a full cycle to get on my way, and I rode to catch him, which I did by Mitcham Junction, despite slow motor traffic.

Lastly, another rider who I passed at the same time caught my wheel, and tried to hold on.  I lost him in the roadworks, but, as I was waiting for a safe gap to turn right, he zoomed round the side of me.  Game on.  I got to him, then held his wheel for a while before stepping out and putting the power down.  He gave chase, and I eased off to let him get on my wheel again.  Then I changed up to the big ring :demon:

Like I said, fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 14 September, 2011, 09:26:36 pm
I set off 5 minutes early this morning so that I could go via the lake in the sunshine. Dawdled along and watched the water birds. Saw a dog with the same haircut as it's owner, which is often the case. Then had a close encounter with a squirrel. Never got that close to a squirrel before.
Arriving at work was the low point of the ride because it was the end. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 14 September, 2011, 09:32:38 pm
Impromptu team time trial along King Street this evening  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 14 September, 2011, 09:57:32 pm
It seems that my probationary period is over. For the last few weeks the drivers of London town have been breaking me in gently, so much so that I was beginning to believe that the roads are not as dangerous as reading YACF makes out.

But the gloves are off and the F**kwits are out in force trying to make me into a Golden Syrup Tin (http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/42139000/jpg/_42139158_syrup_203jpg.jpg).

Still, it is forcing me to learn new things about myself. Today I learned that I can be A VeryAngryCyclistTM.

On the ride in this morning, SilverMondeoTwuntTM pulls out from a side road into my path. Since my emergency stop manoeuvre left me broadside next to his side window, I felt it prudent to knock on said window whilst telling him to use his funking eyes. SilverMondeoTwuntTM wipes the mist from inside his window!! and then rolls it down.

What do you think the most appropriate thing for him to say is at this juncture?
It could have been something along the lines of "Sorry mate I was being a knob, I could have just killed you"... no it wasn't that. If it was "SMIDSY" then he would have got a minor rant about misted windows, and we could have been on our way. But what SilverMondeoTwuntTM actually says to VeryAngryCyclistTM is;
"Dont hit my car"!!!.
VeryAngryCyclistTM is not best pleased with this as a response from someone who has just tried to kill him, and so VeryAngryCyclistTM retorts with "F**k You" (not my best line I'll admit). Whilst planting a very heavy direct fist in to the middle of the bonnet.

On the return journey BMWIdiotTM tries to take me out on the Target Roundabout, with a very sudden lane change. Contact made between VeryAngryCyclistTM's knee and BMW wing mirror, took a couple of layers of skin off, but I didn't even notice until 50 yards later on. So VeryAngryCyclistTM, is now moderately annoyed that he didn't stop for a chat with BMWIdiotTM at the time, but just left with a 'Watch where you're effing going".

The thing is about turning into VeryAngryCyclistTM, that I think I actually like it a bit. I still do not/cannot think about jbex whilst cycling, like I used to in the car.  And so despite being VeryAngryCyclistTM, I think I'm calming down overall.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 14 September, 2011, 10:13:15 pm
Interestingly whilst I was waiting at the Garrads Road / Tooting Bec Road traffic lights at the corner of Tooting Bec Common, I could hear a siren in the distance, slowly approaching, and knew it would appear perfectly timed with the traffic lights going green for me.  The cars behind me were well behaved, amazingly, and didn't attempt to beat the police van to the lights.  Once it had gone past, I went over the lights before they went red, and continued on my normal bimbly commute.

The slightly amusing point was, that when I got to where I cross Mitcham Lane, from Riggindale Road to Conyer's Road, I heard sirens, and thought "Gosh, two emergency vehicles in a couple of minutes, that unusual for this time of the evening".  Only it wasn't another one, it was the same one (it had an unusually distinctive chequerboard pattern).  I, not even attempting to go that fast, had beaten it, when they obviously been haring through the traffic lights with lights and sirens going.  To make it completely clear, the police vehicle must have taken the blue line on this diagram, and I took the slightly shorter red one.

(http://jakal.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/BluesTwosVsCyclist.jpg)

It's always a little unnerving around there, since every morning when I go through the Mitcham Lane / Ambleside Avenue junction, I know there was a cyclist fatality there, a week or two before I started regularly cycling through that junction.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smurphboy on 15 September, 2011, 09:24:45 am
Lovely, lovely, lovely ride in today. No wind, sunshine, little bit of mist in the air, just the right temperature.

If I didn't have a project review this morning then I'd have just kept riding past work and seen where the mood would take me.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 September, 2011, 09:33:00 am
Beautiful day for a ride.  A bit nippy first thing (0630), but very enjoyable.  And such good company too :-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 15 September, 2011, 10:15:44 am
Quote from: Parsley on 14 September, 2011, 09:57:32 pm
Whilst planting a very heavy direct fist in to the middle of the bonnet.

That must have been satisfying.

I do still turn into a VeryAngryCyclistTM occasionally, but I'm used to their ways now, so I mostly just let it slide and vent the steam off here where I know I have a sympathetic audience. All I can say is don't let the bastards spoil your ride.

Had a classic BMWIdiotTM manoeuvre pulled on me this morning but it was such a glorious ride that it failed to disturb my equilibrium. I was fast this morning too. Well, fast by my standards. Covered the 28km in 58 minutes. It's easier to take the slings and arrows of outrageous driving in your stride when you're buzzing with endorphins.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 15 September, 2011, 11:04:41 am
Another glorious morning and yet again, nothing untoward happened on my commute.

Just taking that headwind away makes you feel so fast.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 September, 2011, 11:05:50 am
Last night, it was as if changing up to the big ring switched on a wind machine ;D

Today was pretty much the perfect weather for riding.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 15 September, 2011, 11:28:10 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 13 September, 2011, 04:49:49 pm
The prompt to respond to Addison Lee and ask them for a visit to their 'driving school' (I'll leave this in inverted commas until I see otherwise) was from one of the cycle chatters who went to see his local Bus Company and to observe what training they were providing their drivers as well as having a discussion with their directors about his experiences out on the road.

I know its not directly comparable, but it might be an opportunity to present to them (in the most positive way) our concerns. You never know, things could change  ;)

Lynx, did you get an email with a possible invite to their offices, because its not clear to me what was communicated to you by Addison Lee?
I'm amazed at the idea of a taxi company having any sort of driver training, other than a quick run-through of how to use the taximeter. Whereas bus drivers tend to be employees, taxi drivers and couriers are almost always freelancers. The company takes calls and farms out the work to the drivers on its list, who are legally considered to be self-employed. It's an odd sort of self-employment but that's the way the law views it. Sort of like a franchise, I suppose. I understand some companies actually charge a fee for their drivers to use the company logo/livery.

Addison Lee may be different, of course, but that would make them exceptionally considerate!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 September, 2011, 11:31:18 am
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 15 September, 2011, 11:28:10 am
Addison Lee ...exceptionally considerate!

In the same sentence!

OK, so you were saying it was deeeeeeeply unlikely, but well done anyway. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 15 September, 2011, 12:26:07 pm
Can I order this weather again for tomorrow please?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 15 September, 2011, 12:47:47 pm
Quote from: clarion on 15 September, 2011, 11:31:18 am
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 15 September, 2011, 11:28:10 am
Addison Lee ...exceptionally considerate!

In the same sentence!

OK, so you were saying it was deeeeeeeply unlikely, but well done anyway. ;D

Jurek and I once had a conversation regarding Addison Lee that highlighted the difference between "reputable" and "having a reputation".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 15 September, 2011, 01:07:54 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 15 September, 2011, 12:47:47 pm
Quote from: clarion on 15 September, 2011, 11:31:18 am
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 15 September, 2011, 11:28:10 am
Addison Lee ...exceptionally considerate!

In the same sentence!

OK, so you were saying it was deeeeeeeply unlikely, but well done anyway. ;D

Jurek and I once had a conversation regarding Addison Lee that highlighted the difference between "reputable" and "having a reputation".
You could add "repute", "reputed" and plain "pute".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 15 September, 2011, 03:03:03 pm
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 15 September, 2011, 01:07:54 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 15 September, 2011, 12:47:47 pm
Quote from: clarion on 15 September, 2011, 11:31:18 am
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 15 September, 2011, 11:28:10 am
Addison Lee ...exceptionally considerate!

In the same sentence!

OK, so you were saying it was deeeeeeeply unlikely, but well done anyway. ;D

Jurek and I once had a conversation regarding Addison Lee that highlighted the difference between "reputable" and "having a reputation".
You could add "repute", "reputed" and plain "pute".

 ;D ;D

My new iphone alarm did not go off this morning so I had to rush in late this morning. Going over Vauxhall Bridge, the Thames was at a very low ebb and the combination of the foreshore and the millpond effect was marvellous  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 15 September, 2011, 04:59:13 pm
Quote from: TimO on 14 September, 2011, 10:13:15 pm
Interestingly whilst I was waiting at the Garrads Road / Tooting Bec Road traffic lights at the corner of Tooting Bec Common, I could hear a siren in the distance, slowly approaching, and knew it would appear perfectly timed with the traffic lights going green for me.  The cars behind me were well behaved, amazingly, and didn't attempt to beat the police van to the lights.  Once it had gone past, I went over the lights before they went red, and continued on my normal bimbly commute.

The slightly amusing point was, that when I got to where I cross Mitcham Lane, from Riggindale Road to Conyer's Road, I heard sirens, and thought "Gosh, two emergency vehicles in a couple of minutes, that unusual for this time of the evening".  Only it wasn't another one, it was the same one (it had an unusually distinctive chequerboard pattern).  I, not even attempting to go that fast, had beaten it, when they obviously been haring through the traffic lights with lights and sirens going.  To make it completely clear, the police vehicle must have taken the blue line on this diagram, and I took the slightly shorter red one.

(http://jakal.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/BluesTwosVsCyclist.jpg)

It's always a little unnerving around there, since every morning when I go through the Mitcham Lane / Ambleside Avenue junction, I know there was a cyclist fatality there, a week or two before I started regularly cycling through that junction.

Hi Tim,

Why not take the turn to go along Tooting Bec Road and then cut across the common? It's much more peaceful and avoids that dodgy turn that you dislike so much!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 September, 2011, 06:19:51 pm
I didn't get awfully far on the ride home.  I was at Kennington, and pushed to set off, but my right foot kept going down and I heard a bang.  I thought of Digger, then made a (thankfully safe) emergency stop.  The right crank had cracked right through!  I rode back to work one-legged and, mostly, I'm ashamed to say, on the pavement :-[ 

Now I'm on the train, but very aware of how limiting it is not having a bike.  I had to wait for several trains to go which I'd have happily taken normally, because what is a trivial distance by bike can be a slot on foot.  Fettling tonight, and maybe tomorrow too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 15 September, 2011, 06:40:37 pm
Quote from: Parsley on 14 September, 2011, 09:57:32 pm
The thing is about turning into VeryAngryCyclistTM, that I think I actually like it a bit. I still do not/cannot think about jbex whilst cycling, like I used to in the car.  And so despite being VeryAngryCyclistTM, I think I'm calming down overall.
I had to email an apology to a church this morning, after disrupting their service with shouting.

I had been climbing the hill slowly when a driver (with toddler in the back) left-hooked just in front of me to pull into the church car park. "Idiot," I growled over my shoulder, and would have ridden on except that she gave me a middle finger.

At this point I turned into Popeyed Foaming Mad Confrontational Cyclist and no doubt my buttoned-down shirt split open to reveal the PFMCC logo on the lycra underneath. It turns out that PFMCC can lurk within the mildest-mannered commuter. It really wasn't her fault that some other complete idiot two minutes previously had cut, without looking, the corner into a side road that I was about to come out of. I'd dived for the pavement and talked quite calmly to a pedestrian about people driving straight at one and my desire to live through the day. Quite calmly, but PFMCC had seen it all from within.

Eventually the priest came out to ask me to shut up.

Oops.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 September, 2011, 07:33:55 pm
Did the Priest ask the moton to drive better?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 15 September, 2011, 07:45:13 pm
Quote from: Si_Co on 15 September, 2011, 12:26:07 pm
Can I order this weather again for tomorrow please?

Seconded.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 15 September, 2011, 08:02:37 pm
Quote from: HTFB on 15 September, 2011, 06:40:37 pm
I had to email an apology to a church this morning, after disrupting their service with shouting.

I had been climbing the hill slowly when a driver (with toddler in the back) left-hooked just in front of me to pull into the church car park. "Idiot," I growled over my shoulder, and would have ridden on except that she gave me a middle finger.
.....
Eventually the priest came out to ask me to shut up.

And you didnt comment on the un-christian attitude of the parishoner?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 15 September, 2011, 08:59:06 pm
Quote from: Parsley on 15 September, 2011, 08:02:37 pm
And you didnt comment on the un-christian attitude of the parishoner?
That's beyond my pay grade. I was merely indicating (a bit noisily, admittedly) that she was too stupid to live. What happens after that is not my concern.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 15 September, 2011, 11:40:17 pm
Quote from: clarion on 15 September, 2011, 06:19:51 pm
I didn't get awfully far on the ride home.

 The right crank had cracked right through! 



Hmmmmm?
I wonder how that could have happened?

Quote from: clarion on 14 September, 2011, 09:20:32 pm
I got the chance to play with a few cyclists on the way home.  There was the RLJing Langster who I kept zooming past (I made sure of this).  Then the whippet on the Orbea who I thought was going to tear my legs off into Tooting, but who I sat behind, just far enough back/to the side to avoid drafting.  I thought it might be rude to overtake him on a tourer.  And he RLJed anyway at the last crossing. :(

Then there was the chap at Eastfields - a regular commuter, I'd guess, though I didn't recognise him.  I waited patiently as he rode through the one way, then he took the faster (but more stressful) route through the crossroads.  I waited a full cycle to get on my way, and I rode to catch him, which I did by Mitcham Junction, despite slow motor traffic.

Lastly, another rider who I passed at the same time caught my wheel, and tried to hold on.  I lost him in the roadworks, but, as I was waiting for a safe gap to turn right, he zoomed round the side of me.  Game on.  I got to him, then held his wheel for a while before stepping out and putting the power down.  He gave chase, and I eased off to let him get on my wheel again.  Then I changed up to the big ring :demon:

Like I said, fun.






 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 16 September, 2011, 12:51:41 am
Quote from: clarion on 15 September, 2011, 06:19:51 pm
The right crank had cracked right through!

That happened to me, once. I was left with a crank and pedal hanging off my cleated shoe, flailing about in front of the houses of parliament as I tried not to fall into the traffic. Very odd sensation. I walked the rest of the commute, but it was only half a mile or so.

On a separate note, I was coming home pretty late tonight. As I was coming up to Westminster Bridge on the north bank, probably around 10.30pm, there was a pile of cyclists turning south across the bridge, wearing numbers on their backs showing 'Amsterdam 300'. Looks like I caught the start of this: http://www.amsterdam300.com/ Shame I didn't have a red light opportunity to stop and have a chat before they peeled off in the opposite direction. They had a nice night for it, anyway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 16 September, 2011, 01:46:56 am
I'm sure they'll find other 'red light opportunities', if need be, on the way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 16 September, 2011, 06:06:05 am
Quote from: alexb on 15 September, 2011, 04:59:13 pm
Hi Tim,

Why not take the turn to go along Tooting Bec Road and then cut across the common? It's much more peaceful and avoids that dodgy turn that you dislike so much!

I probably poorly put it, but when I'm northbound, I don't use the route above, and at the junction where the fatality occurred I don't use the direction of turn where that fatality occurred either.  That isn't to say that the junction doesn't make me mildly uncomfortable, but that's more a reflection of it's history than any actual issue, there are junctions which are far worse on my commute!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 16 September, 2011, 08:00:29 am
Quote from: Si_Co on 15 September, 2011, 12:26:07 pm
Can I order this weather again for tomorrow please?

Thanks for that, twas lovely. Shame I've got Friday legs but thats the first full house for nearly a year so I'm happy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 September, 2011, 08:39:20 am
Quote from: teethgrinder on 15 September, 2011, 11:40:17 pm
Quote from: clarion on 15 September, 2011, 06:19:51 pm
I didn't get awfully far on the ride home.

 The right crank had cracked right through! 



Hmmmmm?
I wonder how that could have happened?

<clarion admits to playing>




 ;D

;D  TG, I wish I could put it down to Raw Power, but I did buy the bike in 1995 or 6, and it's the original Shimano STX chainset.  It's done a fair slog.  And I've never broken a crank before.

And I am embarrassed to note that there is a darkened patch of about 20-25% of the area, meaning that there has been a crack I didn't notice, even though I've been sorting out the BB in the last week. :-[

Quote from: Si_Co on 16 September, 2011, 08:00:29 am
Quote from: Si_Co on 15 September, 2011, 12:26:07 pm
Can I order this weather again for tomorrow please?

Thanks for that, twas lovely. Shame I've got Friday legs but thats the first full house for nearly a year so I'm happy.

Yes, another marvellous day for riding.  Unspoiled by the stupid cow in the B*W or the other random driving on the A3.

Today, as a result of last night's little incident, I was on Adrian's distinctive verdigris Carlton with the S3X.  He's taken a differnet tack with it.  Rather than have a normal middle gear with a climbing gear and an overdrive, as I have (and he used to), he's set it up to spend most time in the top gear.  Makes descending interesting, and I felt a bit undergeared in places, but it is a good set up, and I actually got to work a lot fastr than it felt.

The Brooks saddle we won't talk about, but, to be fair, the biggest problem I had was because I'd put the Bagman & my Super C on the back, which was more than the Push self-adjusting seatpost could cope with, so I had to reset it three times en route.  It slipped as I was rounding E&C RAB, which was a tad more exciting than I'd hoped for. ;D

Adrian's swapped the bullhorns the bike used to have for North Road bars, which is a new experience for me (sort of).  Butterfly's classic Rudge has NRs, but I haven't ridden it much.  Anyway, it provided a good position, and reasonable comfort.  Unfortunately, in traffic, I had to keep my hands near the brakes, which put them in more of a 'flat bar' position, which is a bit painful for me, but that was relieved by using the ends, and, on a less stop-start ride, the drops would be fab.

Fun riding.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 16 September, 2011, 09:47:47 am
I was  :sick: before the commute this morning, so literally peeled myself out of bed and selected 'autopilot' for the ride into work today. I did feel rather better after that but still feel sorry for myself.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 16 September, 2011, 09:54:48 am
Well, that was the last ride in this year without headlamps.  Hey ho, roll on March 2012....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 16 September, 2011, 10:01:55 am
Does anyone have a commute where its part car, part bike ? Any tips ?
Considering this, and thinking about stuff like sitting in car in wet gear, the faff of bike out the boot/change shoes/don waterproof/get hands manky/etc
Does anyone find this practical ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 16 September, 2011, 10:53:46 am
Quote from: sg37409 on 16 September, 2011, 10:01:55 am
Does anyone have a commute where its part car, part bike ? Any tips ?
Considering this, and thinking about stuff like sitting in car in wet gear, the faff of bike out the boot/change shoes/don waterproof/get hands manky/etc
Does anyone find this practical ?

Did it for a while, not great but do-able and better than having to do the whole trip by car.

Works best if you've got a hatchback or something you can get the bike into the back.  I found that a rack didn't work for me at all.

Don't bother changing clothes, get a waterproof seat cover. The sort of thing they use in garages. You can get fairly heavy duty ones in places like Halfrauds.

You can drive safely wearing SPDs, dunno about racing cleats.

Things not to do.   Take the front wheel off to put the bike in the back...

...and drive off leaving the wheel behind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 16 September, 2011, 10:56:24 am
Quote from: TheLurker on 16 September, 2011, 10:53:46 am
Things not to do.   Take the front wheel off to put the bike in the back...

...and drive off leaving the wheel behind.

BTDTGTTS

Amazingly the wheel was still there an hour later, but it was 4am
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 16 September, 2011, 11:13:32 am
Shame h_w, much sympathy for you.  Quite impressed you were tough enough to cycle anyway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 16 September, 2011, 11:16:28 am
I might invest in a w/proof seat cover indeed *. Not really driven in spd's, but should be ok. I have a hatchback, and will get the bike in the back with only f.wheel removed, I have a dynahub so it should just be a case of wheel on, brake connect, lights connect, pannier on, w.proof on and away. We'll see....
Think I agree with the "do-able, better than car all the way" sentiment.


* Once brought car from Dalmeny station to the Dalmeny hall after a very wet audax. Less than a mile, and car seat was soaking for days !
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 September, 2011, 11:20:16 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 16 September, 2011, 09:47:47 am
I was  :sick: before the commute this morning, so literally peeled myself out of bed and selected 'autopilot' for the ride into work today. I did feel rather better after that but still feel sorry for myself.

Missed this till Wendy commented.  Hugs and :-*  Hope you're feeling much better very soon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 16 September, 2011, 12:44:57 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 16 September, 2011, 10:53:46 am
Things not to do.   Take the front wheel off to put the bike in the back...

...and drive off leaving the wheel behind.
Or take wheel out, put it on ground, take bike out, place on grass. Then reverse car 3.5ton landrover over front wheel (amazingly, the wheel was ok, apart from a pringled disk that I wasn't using).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 16 September, 2011, 12:52:05 pm
Yesterday evening, King Street. I stopped in a queue at traffic lights to let an older gentleman, who'd obviously been enjoying the hospitality at one of the nearby hostelries for some time, cross the road. He stopped in front of me, pointed at me and said, "Yer wrong!". I wittily replied, "Eh?". He pointed again and slightly more forcefully said, "Yer wrong!". Then he staggered off across the road  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 16 September, 2011, 01:01:49 pm
Quote from: Pingu on 16 September, 2011, 12:52:05 pm
I wittily replied, "Eh?"
*grin*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 16 September, 2011, 02:33:45 pm
Quote from: clarion on 16 September, 2011, 11:20:16 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 16 September, 2011, 09:47:47 am
I was  :sick: before the commute this morning, so literally peeled myself out of bed and selected 'autopilot' for the ride into work today. I did feel rather better after that but still feel sorry for myself.

Missed this till Wendy commented.  Hugs and :-*  Hope you're feeling much better very soon.

Thanks both  :-* I had a chicken kebab for lunch and feel much more the thing now  :thumbsup:

BTW, Wendy did I glimpse a sight of you around Camberwell parts last night, you were wearing a London Dynamo kit and heading west?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 16 September, 2011, 02:59:50 pm
My commute home last night was slightly extended by the Random Night Ride to the Random Night Pubbe thingy. On the way to the station to get the train to Northallerton I just missed being hit by a bus window. I was sitting in the ASL waiting for the lights to change when a double decker from the opposite direction turned right and swung in front of me. Just on the apex of the corner one of the side windows (complete with frame) from the upper deck became detached and landed 6 feet in front of me, showering me with glass. What amazed me was that the bus didn't even stop until 200 yards up the road - and even then it was only for a matter of 10 seconds or so, before the driver drove on. The frame was left in the middle of the road until muggins moved it to the verge.

I'm beginning to think that these forum rides are becoming something of a dangerous thing. It's the third time I've been attacked on my way to the station for a ride. On the first occasion I had an errant estate agent's correx sign blown into me. On the second occasion, whilst heading for another night ride on another gusty night, I was throttled by some horizontally moving wind chimes which did a sort of bolas thing round my neck. Should I work on the principle that such incidents always come in threes, and my future journeys to the station for forum rides will be incident free - or is this an omen of things to come?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 16 September, 2011, 03:04:07 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 16 September, 2011, 02:33:45 pm
Thanks both  :-* I had a chicken kebab for lunch and feel much more the thing now  :thumbsup:

BTW, Wendy did I glimpse a sight of you around Camberwell parts last night, you were wearing a London Dynamo kit and heading west?

Ho Yuss, I was off to see HellyMedic.  Whereabouts did you spot me?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 16 September, 2011, 03:06:08 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 16 September, 2011, 02:33:45 pm
Quote from: clarion on 16 September, 2011, 11:20:16 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 16 September, 2011, 09:47:47 am
I was  :sick: before the commute this morning, so literally peeled myself out of bed and selected 'autopilot' for the ride into work today. I did feel rather better after that but still feel sorry for myself.

Missed this till Wendy commented.  Hugs and :-*  Hope you're feeling much better very soon.

Thanks both  :-* I had a chicken kebab for lunch and feel much more the thing now  :thumbsup:

BTW, Wendy did I glimpse a sight of you around Camberwell parts last night, you were wearing a London Dynamo kit and heading west?

Probably. Wendy visited my place last night and was wearing fetching blue & orange London Dynamo kit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 16 September, 2011, 03:08:20 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 16 September, 2011, 03:04:07 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 16 September, 2011, 02:33:45 pm
Thanks both  :-* I had a chicken kebab for lunch and feel much more the thing now  :thumbsup:

BTW, Wendy did I glimpse a sight of you around Camberwell parts last night, you were wearing a London Dynamo kit and heading west?

Ho Yuss, I was off to see HellyMedic.  Whereabouts did you spot me?

You had just cleared the lights at Camberwell Gyratory and were on Camberwell New Road. Your lights are well bright  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 16 September, 2011, 03:11:07 pm
I'm so honoured to have finally met you IRL after all these years of online acquaintance.  It was a fine evening for a ride, and all the drivers were lovely too.  On the way back I kept up with a scooter rider from Kilburn to Camberwell, quite chuffed with myself for that.  Admittedly he was handicapped by carrying a "thing" strapped to his rack in a way that made filtering less than easy for him.  I rather liked riding the A5, especially the flyover.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 16 September, 2011, 03:19:37 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 16 September, 2011, 03:08:20 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 16 September, 2011, 03:04:07 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 16 September, 2011, 02:33:45 pm
Thanks both  :-* I had a chicken kebab for lunch and feel much more the thing now  :thumbsup:

BTW, Wendy did I glimpse a sight of you around Camberwell parts last night, you were wearing a London Dynamo kit and heading west?

Ho Yuss, I was off to see HellyMedic.  Whereabouts did you spot me?

You had just cleared the lights at Camberwell Gyratory and were on Camberwell New Road. Your lights are well bright  :thumbsup:

:D  Daylight flash mode.  I think I'd just annoyed the driver behind me by letting the 436 bus out in front of us.   OK, candidates are:
White top
Red top with hiviz over the top
Grey top

(I won't post anything up)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 16 September, 2011, 09:39:30 pm
The rain hammered down tonight out of Manchester and there was some appalling driving. It didn't affect me, but people were running red lights, cutting in/out of traffic etc. The water was backing up out of the drains but some people just had to keep going. Slowing down for a set of lights and queuing traffic, a cyclist undertook me using a bus pull-in to get by me then proceeded to cut in/out of the traffic at speed. Interesting to watch and I caught up/passed him within a mile.
Good thing was looking at a fellow riders 'ToutTerrain' bike this am. Rohloff hub,disc brakes,suspension forks, it looked the business for the commute
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 18 September, 2011, 08:16:51 am
This was Friday morning's delightful driver http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j0QBmP3EPBQ.

I have left in the minute and a half or so leading up to the encounter.  I'm often acused of editing selectively to omit anything I may have done to 'deserve it'.

I was irritated by the gutter hugging cyclist I had recently overtaken, inconsiderately planting himself between me and the kerb.  Just what you need with a homicidal nutter on the other side.

Roadsafed him, natch.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gareth Rees on 18 September, 2011, 12:24:25 pm
Quote from: Pingu on 16 September, 2011, 12:52:05 pm
He stopped in front of me, pointed at me and said, "Yer wrong!".

Cyclists are always in the wrong. (http://gareth-rees.livejournal.com/31737.html)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 18 September, 2011, 07:58:47 pm
Had a little crash today.  Rear ended a lady's car on Vauxhall Bridge, after I got tramlined by the paint in the cycle lane.  Yes paint, it is seriously ridged, and in the wet held onto my front wheel.  She was very good, we exchanged details and went on our way.

Then had some appallingly aggressive tailgating on Darwin's corners, that one will be roadsafed for sure.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 18 September, 2011, 09:01:15 pm
Bollocks!!!!


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3F2mwt5yKA

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 18 September, 2011, 10:57:23 pm
What is the width, between the extremes of the red and white paint? 30cm? 45cm?
What width are Wendy's shoulders? 45cm? That lane is grossly inadequate, not helped by motorists driving very close to the line.
Comiserations, Wendy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 19 September, 2011, 05:55:49 am
Bad luck. That silly bit of paint is a travesty.  I reckon Boris should be made to ride along it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 19 September, 2011, 07:34:13 am
bad luck,

little wheels tramline more easily so just be glad you weren't on a brompton.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 19 September, 2011, 08:14:56 am
Amusingly, she said she felt the bump and then looked in her mirror to see me lying on the ground.  That was just me on the recumbent, LOL, I'm not sure she realised it wasn't an upright.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 19 September, 2011, 09:48:16 am
i got overtaken on a hill by a bike on the way to work.  This is pretty unusual.  Initially I thought they had white hair ie they were old.  The bike was a Specialized, probably an Allez.  I followed the rider, they seemed to be overtaking/undertaking the traffic in a cavalier fashion.  I lost them at one set of lights when they weaved off the road and onto the footway and round.  Not illegal or anything but I just don't do this, I feel it is safer to stick to the road.

I caught them two sets of lights later.  I out accelerated them at the lights and assumed they were going into the centre of town, as they were in that lane.  But a couple of minutes later they came past again for another dubious overtake.  Then they turned off onto the same minor road as me. 

It turns out that they aren't an old bloke.  They are a 16 year old student at the college up behind where I work.  The hair is blonde not white.   Being 16 would explain the scant disregard for road safety.  Good legs for a young un though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 19 September, 2011, 11:07:23 am
Quote from: Wendy on 19 September, 2011, 08:14:56 am
Amusingly, she said she felt the bump and then looked in her mirror to see me lying on the ground.  That was just me on the recumbent, LOL, I'm not sure she realised it wasn't an upright.

Bloody hell how horrible Mikey, how are you doing today? Vauxhall Bridge is my nemesis bridge. From Grosvenor road I bear right onto it and I have to really be assertive in holding my lane, when I start to ascend the bridge I just keep on looking and looking behind me at drivers, and if they get too close then its my paddington bear stare and growling (I must look like an idiot). The green cycle lane does not guarantee that car drivers will give you room because it will not I tell you!

No problems on the commute today but I had my full gloves handy and am considering getting out the thermal tights pretty soon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 19 September, 2011, 12:01:03 pm
Quote from: Gareth Rees on 18 September, 2011, 12:24:25 pm
Quote from: Pingu on 16 September, 2011, 12:52:05 pm
He stopped in front of me, pointed at me and said, "Yer wrong!".

Cyclists are always in the wrong. (http://gareth-rees.livejournal.com/31737.html)

That reminds me of the guy who turned right, across my path, in Islington once and, after I had piled into his left front wing, shouted that I should look where I was going.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 19 September, 2011, 12:18:37 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 19 September, 2011, 11:07:23 am
Bloody hell how horrible Mikey, how are you doing today?

Nah, I'm fine thanks.  I feel slightly stupid, but I also feel angry that I couldn't handle those paint lines in the wet.  Angry with myself, but also with TfL who designed that cycle lane. It's an intimidating bridge all right, and not much fun for cyclists.  I suppose the good thing is that I now have an easy point to make on why I don't use that cycle lane for the few-with-no-clue who come on my channel posting that I should be in that cycle lane.

I wish I'd been as organised as you yesterday, I could really have done with my gloves.  Left them behind and I froze my hands in the morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 19 September, 2011, 12:19:09 pm
Bit nippy this morning for sure, but I did leave extra early to get some miles in.   I don't think it will be too long before I'm into base layer and Buff territory.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 19 September, 2011, 12:36:40 pm
My sympathies, Wendy. I hate that bridge. It was much better when the bus lane was on the other side (before the bus station was built eight years ago).

I have said on here before that that cycle lane is a travesty. I won’t cycle southbound on that bridge any more since I was nearly knocked off by a Megabus brushing past me at speed one night.

Now I am able to walk to and from work I sometimes go over that bridge and watch the cyclists in that lane being buzzed closely with a mixture of sympathy and horror.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 19 September, 2011, 12:47:00 pm
I passed loadsa cars this morning.  A sign saying convoy system in use warning that there was a long stretch of temporary traffic lights operating a single remaining carriageway. So I zipped up outside the cars waiting impatienty at the light then sneaked into the clear road where the workmen might be working and road as far as the workmen where I had to stop briefly because the road laying machinary was in use and the open lane was occupied by oncoming traffic.  After the lights I passed the very long queue of cars waiting to be oncoming traffic.  I guess about a mile of stationary cars.  So I was pleased to be on my bike.

Apart from that I was back on orange single speed bike with its new  RH crank.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 19 September, 2011, 01:05:20 pm
Seen the wonderful cycle lanes at Stratford Westfield?

http://londonist.com/2011/09/stratford-city-unveils-london%E2%80%99s-newest-impassible-cycle-lane.php
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 September, 2011, 01:08:34 pm
Brilliant.  Just genius.  The extra random bollard is inspired.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 19 September, 2011, 01:11:24 pm
Maybe they're going to twin Stratford Westfield with Southend Cycle Town
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 19 September, 2011, 05:05:18 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 19 September, 2011, 01:05:20 pm
Seen the wonderful cycle lanes at Stratford Westfield?

http://londonist.com/2011/09/stratford-city-unveils-london%E2%80%99s-newest-impassible-cycle-lane.php

Someone ought to do some over night works and relocate that sign to straddle lanes 1 and 2 of the dual carriageway, after all the sign is there to benefit the drivers by telling them which carparks have sufficient space for them to park in.  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 19 September, 2011, 05:47:12 pm
People keep trying to race me! You know when they wheeze past at a filthy cadence then slow right down when they think they've won! Twice in a week!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bloomers100 on 19 September, 2011, 07:45:02 pm
Two dead badgers this morning in the Essex lanes. I'm sure I am seeing more dead badgers lately is there an explanation for this?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 19 September, 2011, 07:54:34 pm
Soon after hitting the road this morning I realised I had Friday legs.  :-\  Next I spotted the police vans blocking the road up to East Ham Station — along with police marquee on the pavement.  :(  With nearly dead legs I opted for the quiet route in to town.  Along Poplar High Street noticed the bike felt odd... my first visitation!  >:(  It was a small sliver of metal, like part of a large staple.  Continental Touring+ Reflex are no substitute for Schwalbe Marathon+.  Usual idiots along CS3.  But that's all OK, because then I got to work.   ::-)

Perhaps this should have gone in the 'grumble' thread.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 20 September, 2011, 09:14:20 am
Wet, very wet but at least it's warm and still, all in all a decent ride in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bloomers100 on 20 September, 2011, 09:23:48 am
I informed a baker that his backdoors on his van were open, sadly no donuts fell into my path or my pannier.

Only one dead badger this morning, may have been one of yesterdays.  :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 20 September, 2011, 09:32:21 am
I thought my ride in to town this morning had been marred by a twunt in a big black 4x4 hurtling up behind me with horn blaring as I cruised round E&C roundabout.  Turned out he was cross with someone else but it was too late - I gave him the benefit of my opinion on his behaviour.

But then all put into perspective by arriving at the scene of a deeply unpleasant bus/cyclist interaction on Aldwych.  An ambulance was on its way. :( 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smurphboy on 20 September, 2011, 10:17:44 am
There appears to be an unannounced addition to the Bristol Cycling Festival today. It is the 'Overfill your tank with diesel challenge' - I noted considerable success on my commute this morning.

I especially enjoyed the large puddle of diesel at the bottom of the hill just where I turn left. It made for an interesting cornering experience.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 20 September, 2011, 10:21:47 am
Frack. Lots of traffic around the Oval and in the lead up towards the MI5 building. Huge area of Vauxhall Bridge closed off by police and I believe cyclist down on stretcher and not being given medical treatment with two other cyclists standing over them. Tried asking the police what happened but they were not giving anything away.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 20 September, 2011, 10:25:45 am
 :(

My colleague rides in via Vauxhall Bridge and he mentioned an incident involving a lorry. He didn't see a cyclist but as soon as he told me, I feared the worst. I was hoping my fears would be misplaced.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 20 September, 2011, 10:28:18 am
There is a thread \/ down there and one on LFGSS, I believe.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 20 September, 2011, 10:31:04 am
Quote from: citoyen on 20 September, 2011, 10:25:45 am
:(

My colleague rides in via Vauxhall Bridge and he mentioned an incident involving a lorry. He didn't see a cyclist but as soon as he told me, I feared the worst. I was hoping my fears would be misplaced.

d.

Twitter is saying that it is a fatality and apart from BBC Travel saying that it was an incident between a lorry and a cyclist I can't get any more news about it.  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 20 September, 2011, 10:32:08 am
http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=51993.0

http://www.lfgss.com/thread72681.html
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 20 September, 2011, 10:45:24 am
Quote from: citoyen on 20 September, 2011, 10:32:08 am
http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=51993.0

http://www.lfgss.com/thread72681.html

Thanks citoyen and butterfly. I f*cking well hate that bridge but for me its my most direct way into work. On the northside direction where you queue with the buses the lane comes into direct collision with the lane from the west. Again you have to be really assertive in getting across into the bus lane.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 September, 2011, 11:06:50 am
Vauxhall is my least favourite junction anywhere.  It's one part of the London infrastructure which is dangerous enough even without the appalling driving that goes on.  Surfaces are horrible, signage is inadequate, cycle lanes dribble out and dump you in the wrong places, and the visibility is poor with going under the bridges.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 21 September, 2011, 08:03:52 am
I do love a nice crisp morning  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 21 September, 2011, 08:33:45 am
Last night, the very deffinition of a punishment pass, close overtake where there were two lanes available and only light traffic. Followed by the statement that the council had spent £2.5m on the cycle path and if I didn't use it he would continue to pass me that close. Unfortunately I was not quick enough to invite him to walk along the pavement and I would pass him at 15-20mph and see how he liked it.

Then this morning I got left hooked at the entrance to the office car park. I was wearing corporate Hi-Vis for crying out loud. There was no doubt about where I was going but he still went past with his left hand indicator on. When challenged in the lift he stated I could have turned in at the first ramp (exit - no entry) and saved myself some distance.  :facepalm:

So I have my safety moment for the next meeting and as half my team cycle commute (including the managers) it could be interesting.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 21 September, 2011, 08:37:06 am
You should have given him a Scot's Kiss Matthew, and told him he could have ducked to the left. His choice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 21 September, 2011, 10:08:04 am
So many scalps this morning! If I could ever be arsed to get a helmet cam there's a stretch where I could film my scalps and have a little clicking dial in the bottom corner of the screen showing the running total cost of the make and year of the vehicles I overtake. May be seen as provocative so I'll keep that a private indulgence. (Some days I reach £100k, easy, not boasting, honest!) That's not counting lorries and buses. In London if the Hackney Road was snarled up I reckon you could get over a million squid easy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 21 September, 2011, 10:09:49 am
I reached £1.5mil in a single car not so long ago, assuming the car value was correct.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 21 September, 2011, 10:16:23 am
I think it would INFURIATE drivers if anyone ever did make a short film. You Tube Comments Meltdown. "I promise I'm not being provocative, I just thought it would be interesting to record!" "Your a nazi jew-loving gay road tax dodger, get canser of the head you moran!!111"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 21 September, 2011, 10:39:25 am
As I was descending the hill en route to the station this morning, a motorist started to turn right across my path to enter a petrol station.

I do this hill most days. I'm aware of the assorted hazards at the bottom (bus stop, narrow bend, side road, petrol station), so I always make sure I slow down before I reach the potential danger spots. But I don't think it's too much to ask for a bit of give and take from motorists.

As she started to turn, I yelled, as loud as I possibly could, "DON'T YOU FUCKING DARE!"

It worked. She stopped.  :thumbsup:

I repeated myself from close quarters as I passed the car, while giving her my hardest Paddington Bear hard stare. She looked duly chastised. Good.

Victory? Perhaps. I'd rather the idea to turn in front of me hadn't entered her head in the first place.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 21 September, 2011, 10:47:02 am
I like to play "How much income the government is losing in fines" on my way to work.
It's usually in the hundreds or even thousands by the end of my 40 minute commute most days.

Assuming a standard £60 for a mobile phone, £120 for a bus lane infringment and £30 for an ASL intrusion, it mounts up pretty quickly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 21 September, 2011, 11:01:38 am
First commute into London for me since PBP (I'm lucky that I rarely go into the office), so a nice 40 miles. The weather was a little damp, but not worth putting waterproofs on for and actually quite pleasant.

However, about five miles from home I put down the power to accelerate onto a roundabout and snapped my chain  :( Obviously this is due to my amazing PBP-earnt torque, as it's only done about 1000 miles (this is my Audax MK3, not the Roubaix I did PBP on). Luckily it was a small roundabout and not very busy, so I did the roll of shame to the edge without inconveniencing anyone or being in danger. I hate to think about that happening on the Camberley Meadows roundabout, or the one at Egham under the M25.

Of course, my spare link and tools were at the bottom of the pannier, necessitating an unload  :( One nice lady did stop her car and ask if I was OK :thumbsup: But, having left home a little late and with this delay I hit loads of traffic on the way in. Even though I can filter sometimes, I don't like to do that too aggressively and it still slows you down. So about an hour later into the office than I wanted to be. Luckily we don't keep standard hours here, I'm just expected to do what needs to be done, and my first meeting is just before lunch with a colleague who hasn't turned up yet.

Other than that, it was a good ride in. No really bad behaviour from any other road users, and a couple of examples of very courteous driving from vans.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 21 September, 2011, 11:30:09 am
Unfortunately that wasn't in Sunningdale where a garage and tools could have been available.

I have snapped a chain pulling away from the traffic lights onto the Twin Bridges Roundabout in Bracknell. Yes I was in the middle lane of three to go straight on and yes it was an up hill entrance to the roundabout.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 21 September, 2011, 12:05:25 pm
Quote from: alexb on 21 September, 2011, 10:47:02 am
I like to play "How much income the government is losing in fines" on my way to work.
It's usually in the hundreds or even thousands by the end of my 40 minute commute most days.

Assuming a standard £60 for a mobile phone, £120 for a bus lane infringment and £30 for an ASL intrusion, it mounts up pretty quickly.

Love it Alex!  I think I might have to borrow that to reply to some of my more motonish youtube comments.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 21 September, 2011, 12:34:31 pm
Quote from: matthew on 21 September, 2011, 11:30:09 am
Unfortunately that wasn't in Sunningdale where a garage and tools could have been available.

I had pretty much everything I needed - the only thing I was short of was latex gloves and something to clean my hands with. A wipe down on the grass got rid of most of the grot, and luckily it wasn't that long since I'd cleaned the chain so it wasn't completely disgusting.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 21 September, 2011, 05:12:57 pm
Quote from: Gandalf on 18 September, 2011, 08:16:51 am
This was Friday morning's delightful driver http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j0QBmP3EPBQ.

I have left in the minute and a half or so leading up to the encounter.  I'm often acused of editing selectively to omit anything I may have done to 'deserve it'.

I was irritated by the gutter hugging cyclist I had recently overtaken, inconsiderately planting himself between me and the kerb.  Just what you need with a homicidal nutter on the other side.

Roadsafed him, natch.



I encountered the same driver this morning, again as I was waiting at the lights.  The noisy,  farty exhaust was unmistakeable.

What a difference!  I can't help wondering if the Met have had a word in his shell-like following my report to Roadsafe last week.  He could of course just have been in a less stressy mood, but you never know.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 21 September, 2011, 05:34:26 pm
Quote from: Gandalf on 21 September, 2011, 05:12:57 pm
Quote from: Gandalf on 18 September, 2011, 08:16:51 am
This was Friday morning's delightful driver http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j0QBmP3EPBQ.

I have left in the minute and a half or so leading up to the encounter.  I'm often acused of editing selectively to omit anything I may have done to 'deserve it'.

I was irritated by the gutter hugging cyclist I had recently overtaken, inconsiderately planting himself between me and the kerb.  Just what you need with a homicidal nutter on the other side.

Roadsafed him, natch.



I encountered the same driver this morning, again as I was waiting at the lights.  The noisy,  farty exhaust was unmistakeable.

What a difference!  I can't help wondering if the Met have had a word in his shell-like following my report to Roadsafe last week.  He could of course just have been in a less stressy mood, but you never know.

Any chance you kept the footage and will upload it?  I think it's lovely to have footage of improved performance, and to pass the good news around.  It encourages Roadsafe, and it encourages more camera cyclists.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 21 September, 2011, 07:06:02 pm
 :'( :'( :'(

RIP my fixie frame (I think)

Threw chain at ~24mph and locked rear wheel solid.  :o Left an impressive skid mark circa 25m long and flat spotted rear tyre with an impressive smell of hot rubber.

Freed chain to continue riding home but on clipping in the bottom bracket felt odd, and the rear wheel was out of true. 5 drive side trailing spokes knackered and a bend in the right chain stay.

I've had that frame ~15 years and crashed it once writing off the forks.

Even had to call out recovery from home to pick me up  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 21 September, 2011, 07:16:28 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 21 September, 2011, 05:34:26 pm
Quote from: Gandalf on 21 September, 2011, 05:12:57 pm
Quote from: Gandalf on 18 September, 2011, 08:16:51 am
This was Friday morning's delightful driver http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j0QBmP3EPBQ.

I have left in the minute and a half or so leading up to the encounter.  I'm often acused of editing selectively to omit anything I may have done to 'deserve it'.

I was irritated by the gutter hugging cyclist I had recently overtaken, inconsiderately planting himself between me and the kerb.  Just what you need with a homicidal nutter on the other side.

Roadsafed him, natch.



I encountered the same driver this morning, again as I was waiting at the lights.  The noisy,  farty exhaust was unmistakeable.

What a difference!  I can't help wondering if the Met have had a word in his shell-like following my report to Roadsafe last week.  He could of course just have been in a less stressy mood, but you never know.

Any chance you kept the footage and will upload it?  I think it's lovely to have footage of improved performance, and to pass the good news around.  It encourages Roadsafe, and it encourages more camera cyclists.

Sadly not.  I have just reviewed today's footage and because it was peeing down this morning my cheapy Muvi couldn't cope.  It just looks like a bad acid trip through vaseline coated eyeballs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dinamo on 22 September, 2011, 06:28:14 am
First commute today for 3 weeks, due to holiday and bad weather.
Nice to be back on the bike at that ungodly hour - 4:30 !
Mild and damp this morning, the drizzle soon stopped but a fair headwind.
The lights on the Avonmouth bridge weren't working on the south side, which led to a close encounter with a cyclist coming the other way dressed in a black ninga stylee - TWAT ! ( no lights either ).
20 kms in 52 minutes !
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 22 September, 2011, 01:18:43 pm
Had a curry last night which did not impact well on my commute in this morning  ::-)

I was cycling along the Chelsea Embankment this morning and chanced upon a yacf-er, it was of the orange version which I have not seen before!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 22 September, 2011, 01:30:38 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 22 September, 2011, 01:18:43 pm
Had a curry last night which did not impact well on my commute in this morning  ::-)

I was cycling along the Chelsea Embankment this morning and chanced upon a yacf-er, it was of the orange version which I have not seen before!

What, the jersey or the YACF-er?

IGMC
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 22 September, 2011, 01:33:01 pm
Quote from: Gandalf on 22 September, 2011, 01:30:38 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 22 September, 2011, 01:18:43 pm
Had a curry last night which did not impact well on my commute in this morning  ::-)

I was cycling along the Chelsea Embankment this morning and chanced upon a yacf-er, it was of the orange version which I have not seen before!

What, the jersey or the YACF-er?

IGMC

Judith Chalmers no longer posts on here as much as she used to, but it is believed that she continues to ride her bike near her riverside home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 22 September, 2011, 02:07:44 pm
Quote from: matthew on 21 September, 2011, 07:06:02 pm
RIP my fixie frame (I think)

Ouch. Unlucky.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 22 September, 2011, 02:38:50 pm
Last night on the way home stopped and helped a random stranger with a puncture.  He'd missed a sharp and punctured his spare inner tube so I gave him one of my spares, found the sharp and pumped his tyre back up to 6.5 bar
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 September, 2011, 02:41:33 pm
Matthew, is the frame not worth saving?  An old friend sometimes merits an uneconomic repair.

EDIT: Good one vorsprung.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 22 September, 2011, 02:49:44 pm
Quote from: clarion on 22 September, 2011, 02:41:33 pm
Matthew, is the frame not worth saving?  An old friend sometimes merits an uneconomic repair.

EDIT: Good one vorsprung.

I won't know till the weekend when I will have had chance to clean and inspect in detail. I am fairly certain the chainstay has bent (£65 at mercian + repaint £110), I suspect the seat stay has bent and I the flex at the bottom bracket is worrying.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 23 September, 2011, 10:30:14 am
Running late this morning so took the short way in and am reminded why i don't like this route in the morning, bleedin tipper trucks on the way to the M60.

Oh and Mrs chelsea tractor driver I AM turning right on the mini roundabout at 31mph and you can try to undertake me but I think you'll find that the laws of physics have something to say about that........yes that's called understeer.....that's a bollard.....and come to screeching halt  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 23 September, 2011, 10:47:20 am
It was "fresh" this morning.  Glad I was wearing a buff but my legs were fine in shorts.

On the little rise near the cluster of garden centres on the A38 out of Wellington I saw a bike just uphill of me.  It looked like a hybrid and the cadence of the rider wasn't great.  I expected to catch them easily and quickly but I only closed the gap a small amount on the hill.  Maybe they are fitter than they look?  They seem to be pedaling a big gear with no bother.  When it leveled out I got on the drops and the big ring and did catch them.

It was a friggin' electric bike
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 23 September, 2011, 11:02:52 am
Any one else dig out their helmet this morning due to chance of being hit by a piano sized piece of space junk?
 ;D


Not really.  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 23 September, 2011, 11:21:37 am
Quote from: Jurek on 22 September, 2011, 01:33:01 pm
Judith Chalmers no longer posts on here as much as she used to, but it is believed that she continues to ride her bike near her riverside home.

Actually, she sold her riverside home to the couple from whom the Redlights bought their current residence
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Domestique on 23 September, 2011, 12:12:05 pm
On the way home yesterday, I had a van behind me who waited patiently then passed wide. Lots of consideration.
I caught him up at the next traffic lights, tapped on his window then complemented his driving. I really had to work hard to convince him I was being genuine.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 23 September, 2011, 01:41:22 pm
Quote from: Basil on 23 September, 2011, 11:02:52 am
Any one else dig out their helmet this morning due to chance of being hit by a piano sized piece of space junk?
 ;D


Not really.  ;)
But my helmet has proved quite useful in protecting my head from conkers, several of which have bounced off harmlessly over the last couple of weeks,  as I descend Peckham Rye.  And it saved me from a nasty lapwing airborne assault, once, riding up to Tan Hill. So they have their uses.

By the way, the eastern sky this morning on my commute was absolutely stunning.  Extended my ride over Blythe Hill, then through Lewisham and Greenwich via Blackheath, to make the most of that sunrise.
   

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wowbagger on 23 September, 2011, 01:46:09 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 22 September, 2011, 01:18:43 pm
Had a curry last night which did not impact well on my commute in this morning  ::-)

I was cycling along the Chelsea Embankment this morning and chanced upon a yacf-er, it was of the orange version which I have not seen before!

Your curry and the colour of the YACFer were not in some way connected, I hope?  :-X
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 23 September, 2011, 01:58:00 pm
Moving average 27.0kph this morning. Yes, that will do.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 23 September, 2011, 03:48:41 pm
Quote from: clarion on 22 September, 2011, 02:41:33 pm
Matthew, is the frame not worth saving?  An old friend sometimes merits an uneconomic repair.

EDIT: Good one vorsprung.

Damage now assessed,

Right chain stay bent outwards and tube shape squashed, stress cracks in paint visible and dents in the other side.
Right Seat stay bowed outwards from the brake bridge to the dropout, mainly at the canti boss, probably straightenable.
Left seat stay bent to the right at the brake bridge, probably straightenable.
Now see why clipping into right pedal caused the bottom bracket to sway left, whole rear triangle is out of track.

Next to consult LBS and get quote from Mercian.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: diapsaon0 on 23 September, 2011, 04:31:43 pm
Doesn't sound good - but maybe worth it for a Mercian.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 23 September, 2011, 05:08:43 pm
It's not a mercian, its a British Eagle Touristique 531 ST and such a comfortable bike to ride, I have the geometry and contact points 'just so'. It went to Mercian about 10 years ago after a seat stay came away from the seat tube. But as I was at Uni at the time I deliberately chose a non-descript colour scheme.

That may change this time  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: diapsaon0 on 23 September, 2011, 05:24:38 pm
That's a nice frame.  I had one and agree about the comfort.  Hope you can get it repaired.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 23 September, 2011, 07:41:18 pm
Some commuting stats:
I've been cycle commuting to my present place of work since Sept 05.
Bikejournal shows that (to today) I've done the trip 1000 times,   :o  covering 21,900 miles.
The round trip distance is 24 miles, but occasionally I cheat with a lift or a train.

In the early years, I had three near misses on a big roundabout (one per year) but have had none since traffic lights were installed.
I also banged on a window once, and swore.
I also had one explosive sweary rant at another cyclist whose conversation pissed me off.
Sometimes I get overtaken too closely, but that tends to happen when I'm knackered or ill and riding slowly.

I've had two punctures on the way to work and seven (I think) on the way home. Two of those punctures could have been avoided if I'd noticed that the tyre had worn through. I've had one actual immobilising breakdown, where a chain tensioner went into the rear spokes, anything else has been cobbled together en-route.

All in all, it's bliss - the best part of my day and (almost) the best part of my life. I consider my morning ride a failure if I haven't said "good morning" to at least one other person.

Cycle commuting is glorious. IMHO. I hope you all enjoy yours as much as I do and keep the occasional badness in perspective.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 September, 2011, 08:04:18 pm
Brilliant.  Inspiring.  Wonderful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 24 September, 2011, 07:39:12 am
Gordy! +1
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 24 September, 2011, 08:13:36 am
Reading Gordon's comments about his commute makes me wish I had one
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 24 September, 2011, 08:22:12 am
Brilliant Gordy!

Succinct description of why riding a bike to work is the best thing ever! I am jealous of anyone who has the regular commute, I work from home, but ride into London for meetings and days on site.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 24 September, 2011, 09:32:38 am
Loved the stats and description of your commute Gordy  :thumbsup:

Blissful commute in today - noticed some rowers on the Thames just to the west of Vauxhall Bridge.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RJ on 24 September, 2011, 10:37:20 am
Nice one, Gordy :)

Friday morning means Dr RJ does the school run, so the last two Fridays I've left a little early and extended my route to start past Arthur's Seat and the parliament,  to add in a chunk of tarmac'd railway path that I used on a previous commute.  22km in 1 hour dead (bike moving) - a humungous proportion without having to put a foot down*  :thumbsup:

New Friday routine, I think.

* - (I don't trackstand :-\)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 24 September, 2011, 10:44:11 pm
Hardly a commute - and I'm barely capable of riding around the corner atm - but on Friday I managed to get into a car-banging slanging match with a taxi driver in York. A summary of the situation goes like this; I slow behind bus that is indicating to pull out. Taxi attempt to overtake and pulls in on me (we are both moving). When he is within 2" of my handlebars and is still moving sideways, I slap his window. Forceably, several times. He stops pulling in on me, winds down window and slanging match ensues. End of match results in both of us calling each other dipshits. So intellectual.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MackieHornet on 25 September, 2011, 12:37:14 am
BlackNinjaBike had a lumpy tyre! Could feel a rhythmic thumping on the back wheel so guessed something was awry. Took it to a local LBS - fortunately open on Sunday - who said that the material had given up the ghost. New tyre purchased, LBS kindly fitted for nowt (I am a mechanical incompetent).

Start new job tomorrow: commute = 3.16km. Would go for a longer version but the traffic post-earthquake is so awful along the roads I'd be using that I need to do some investigation into quieter routes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 26 September, 2011, 08:05:14 am
What a beautiful morning, the only problem with cycling to work is that I'd rather ride straight past and enjoy the sunshine
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 26 September, 2011, 08:39:45 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 24 September, 2011, 10:44:11 pm
Hardly a commute - and I'm barely capable of riding around the corner atm - but on Friday I managed to get into a car-banging slanging match with a taxi driver in York.

Nice to see that york taxi drivers are keeping up (!) the standards of their brothers-in-arms in our fair capital.  I had an incident yesterday as I was riding to the station in York, approaching from the town direction (so needing to turn right).  Car passes me and I look over my shoulder and see a gap.  Right arm goes out, pause, look over shoulder, sense car there but far enough back for it to be safe, so move.  Car carries on driving AT me, even though it is obvious, if he waits 2 seconds I will be out of his way (as I would have got to the filter lane), engine revving, so I am afraid I flipped him.

The irony is that 10 yards further on he came to a stop as traffic was backed up....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 26 September, 2011, 08:53:43 am
the whole bit around the station is a blinking nightmare for cycling - too many buses, taxis and too much general traffic, lots of lemming-like pedestrians and (it has to be said) too many numpty cyclists including a plenty of wannabe hipsters on fixies - not sure why they seem to cluster round the station.  and because everyone is squeezed into a narrow space between the equally immovable city walls and the station and the railway lines, there's always going to be an element of conflict.  interestingly i saw in the paper that they are working on improving pedestrian and cyclist access from the other side of the station - they seem to have put in something from by the side of the rm sorting office, which would possibly allow cyclist a traffic free route along the river then on to the station.  i haven't yet been to see if it's any good!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 26 September, 2011, 09:00:30 am
My run-in was on the Stonebow. If I'd been feeling well I'd have taken the road up in a bolshy assertive way and the taxi would have been unable to cut me up.
The new station route cuts straight through to Holbeck - i've not used it yet by my wife reckons it's good. Avoids a lot of traffic.
Title: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 26 September, 2011, 09:07:32 am
That's funny, I thought, as I cycled to the station this morning. I don't remember my SPDs having so much float...

(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k170/smutchin/1f6d8947.jpg)

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 September, 2011, 09:56:32 am
Ooh.  Lucky escape*, I think.

I was back to the commute this morning after a while unwell.  Not the normal one - we grimped over the Col de St Reatham to Brixton where I left Butterfly and headed on into work.  As I was a bit early, I made a loop up Borough High Street, back down Cycle Superhighway Car Park 7 >:( and returned to work.  Shame to have to stop, really.

I have to say that, despite the dreadful traffic on the A23, the ride was smoother than normal, being a reasonable speed but my maximum lower than I usually achieve.  Lots of traffic lights, but very few reds.  And space to get past most of the worst jams.

Not as many cyclists as I've seen before on the A23, though I admit I came through rather earlier than I have previously, but the A3 had plenty of us. :D

* Pun intended.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 26 September, 2011, 10:13:22 am
This morning the ground was wet so I took the winter bike.  I am fighting off a cold so I wasn't at full power.  The rear mudguard lost a cable tie and went a bit rattlely

On the plus side it was a loverly morning, bright, lots of blue sky.  I didn't have to walk a dog so I was back on my usual route up and over Culm Davy, much less traffic that way
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 26 September, 2011, 12:48:04 pm
Just before I got to the Oval I saw this lady and toddler in a child seat behind her (I've spotted her a few times now). She was trying to push off at the junction but was getting into difficulties. I moved past her at the Oval towards Vauxhall Bridge and then stopped at a red light. She sailed through said red light, into a lane of oncoming traffic  :o

I got up the pedestrianised bit near one of the tunnels and pointed out to her that she had just gone through a red light. She did a  ::-) at me and said 'have you ever walked across the road with a red man symbol at traffic lights'.  :o 'Not the point' I said, 'as you have clearly a young child in tow and you cycled into a lane of oncoming traffic'. She continued to ask me the same question and I just thought she is too stupid to listen to sense so I cycled across the road. 'You've gone through a red traffic light' she shouts at me. 'No love, I am riding on a shared pedestrian-cycle route'.

After that Darwinesque behaviour witnessed, I sailed along the Chelsea Embankment and noticed that there was a large pink pig that was dangling over Battersea Power Station and that a LOT of people had stopped to take photographs. My boss in work explained that it was this:
http://www.batterseapowerstation.org.uk/floyd/floyd.html
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 26 September, 2011, 12:55:15 pm
Had fun when I got to work. The remaining cleat bolt in my right shoe had worked itself quite loose, so it was impossible to separate shoe and pedal. I had to remove my foot from my shoe and walk in barefoot, the shoe hanging from the pedal inna triathlete stylee.

As a cycling colleague remarked, "That's not supposed to happen, is it?"  :-\

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 27 September, 2011, 09:12:14 am
Wet enough to be fun going home last night, I couldn't wipe the grin off my face. Most seemed either off the road (yay!) or miserable. Then  I passed a gurl going the other way also smiling, and we saw each other. The grin grew wider.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 September, 2011, 09:29:53 am
As I left work and the rain started pelting down so hard the pedestrians ran for cover, I glanced up and noticed a small band of lighter grey beyond the lowering clouds.  I thought, "I'll just plough into this headwind in the rain for half an hour and I'll be fine".

I'm a cyclist.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 27 September, 2011, 09:34:05 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 26 September, 2011, 12:48:04 pm
I sailed along the Chelsea Embankment and noticed that there was a large pink pig that was dangling over Battersea Power Station and that a LOT of people had stopped to take photographs. My boss in work explained that it was this:
http://www.batterseapowerstation.org.uk/floyd/floyd.html

Had you slipped through a time tunnel then?  Or was somebody trying to recreate the shot?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 27 September, 2011, 09:39:28 am
I got held up by cyclists. Which was nice  :)

Then as I came up towards the Houses of Parliament another cyclist thanked me for letting him draft me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 27 September, 2011, 09:41:37 am
Quote from: Redlight on 27 September, 2011, 09:34:05 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 26 September, 2011, 12:48:04 pm
I sailed along the Chelsea Embankment and noticed that there was a large pink pig that was dangling over Battersea Power Station and that a LOT of people had stopped to take photographs. My boss in work explained that it was this:
http://www.batterseapowerstation.org.uk/floyd/floyd.html

Had you slipped through a time tunnel then?  Or was somebody trying to recreate the shot?

@Redlight it's part of the publicity surrounding the re-release of Pink Floyd's back catalogue
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 27 September, 2011, 09:49:07 am
On the commute yesterday:

Had to retrace my 'steps' on the bike when I saw my flip-flops had gone missing from my bag (I thought they were secured). Found them two roads away, and hadn't suffered being run over a couple of times.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 27 September, 2011, 12:10:39 pm
Yesterday morning was a strangely quiet commute must have been something on TV that fascinated the Welsh drivers. On the way home I passed a stokerless tandem.

I have a problem on my commute.  It starts down a narrow country lane through Radyr golf course.  In the summer the hedges narrow the lane further so cars are forced into a fixed path.  So there is usually a clean  stripe either side of the mucky centre.  If another car comes one must reverse.  Now the hedges are no longer as thick as they were a month ago car drivers no longer fear the overhanging bushes and drive on the edge of the lane digging mud out from the bank. Result the road is covered in a thick coating of sticky mud.  So I have some cyclocross on my commute.  I will probably have to switch to my winter commute early this year.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 27 September, 2011, 12:19:20 pm
Last night, while making dinner, I trod on something hard and sharp on the kitchen floor. When I picked it up for closer inspection, I realised it was my missing cleat bolt.  :thumbsup:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 27 September, 2011, 12:21:34 pm
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 27 September, 2011, 12:10:39 pm
Yesterday morning was a strangely quiet commute must have been something on TV that fascinated the Welsh drivers. On the way home I passed a stokerless tandem.


Isn't it obligatory to shout "Sorry mate, I think you've lost someone"?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 27 September, 2011, 12:26:30 pm
Well don't know what went on last night, I flew home without seeming to make any extra effort, 9.7 mile in less than 30 mins door to door, paid for it this morning though seemed to take an awful lot of effort to do my usual averages  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 September, 2011, 12:34:33 pm
Well, that's some compensation, I suppose ;D

Last night, I put in a really strong ride home, despite the rain and the wind.  I had those moments of looking around me at the lights, deciding which line to take to keep ahead but not impede anyone if they needed to come past faster (they didn't), and assessing how far it would take me to overhaul the riders sat in front of the Stop line, so I could get a good position.

Up to Clapham, I stormed ahead, but I lost that group as I had to stop at the cashpoint.  Back on the road, I was riding with a very fast woman, who turned off, then there was a chap on a Giant who was spinning like mad away from stops, and a young lad on a Concorde older than he was.  I led them to Tooting Bec, where they edged ahead at the lights when I waited behind a row of cars.  But lights change, and I was away, down into Tooting, watching for the numpty drivers (and adjusting speed/direction to accommodate), and I just missed the lights at Broadway, so the other guys caught up.  Green light - go! - and off to Amen Corner.  Giant & Concorde pushed through next to a truck as I hung back.  Then caught their wheel again up the road.  But the Giant jumped the lights, so it was just me & the Concorde.  Powering past him at the Police Station, I held it into the wind and over the railway, and took the Giant just the other side.  All about me now, with the Concorde struggling to hold onto my wheel past Figges Marsh.  But I raised the tempo, and dropped him.  Caught by the lights again, I supped my water as I waited for them to catch up.  But they were headed to central Mitcham, and I was going the other way so, for once, I let them go from the lights so I didn't have to turn across their path, then off I went.

Further on, I saw a fastish rider on Carshalton Road, so I tried to get to him.  I saw he struggled over the railway at Mitcham Junction station, so the wind was obviously taking it out of him.  When I got there, I sat in for a few seconds before moving to the front.  But I was moving away as his speed was dropping.  I eased off to let him get back on, but I don't think it was going to happen, so I got a step on to get home.  I think he'd been putting on a burst to keep ahead of me, and couldn't sustain it.  Ah well, that's me on many other days.

Into the wind.  Through the rain.  In the gloom.  A great ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 27 September, 2011, 12:46:18 pm
A very nice run in this morning *
I didn't need to be in first thing, so rather than aiming to leave the house at 7am I waited till the kids had gone to school and left about 8:15. Far more sociable having breakfast with the family than leaving as they wake up.
I was worried that the traffic would be heavy, but it was actually better than normal. A good reasonably fast run in (just over 2 hours for the 40 miles - fast until I get inside the M25, where road conditions and traffic lights slow me). Only two incidents - a lady cyclist coming towards me turned right across my path, causing us both to brake and swerve (I was doing about 20mph at the time). She did apologise, she'd not seen me as I was behind a bus and she just turned after it  without checking if anything was there.

I overtook a fixie rider coming in towards Hounslow on the A315 (heading east). He caught up at red lights just before the road does the 90 degree right hand bend to go around the High Street. He swerved to go around the car waiting next to me on the right, across the other lane of traffic, up onto the pavement, rode down to the bend in the road, hopped back onto the road, crossed both lanes and rode off down the pedestrianised High Street. I, for one, was impressed with his mad leet Alley-cat skillz  ::-)





* at least as nice as coming from laney, leafy Hampshire into the smoke can ever be.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: welshwheels on 27 September, 2011, 06:36:20 pm
nice tail wind on the way home  :thumbsup: spinning like mad on the single speed  ;D ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 September, 2011, 07:01:55 pm
Headwind for me, but only slight, and less than the tailwind I had this morning.  Nonetheless, I was faster coming home.  I took particular joy in catching red light jumpers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 27 September, 2011, 07:09:21 pm
Nearly taken out by a ped who leapt out from behind a van. I was so shocked the most profane I could manage was "Idiot"

On the plus side someone CRM Dr Bike on The Embankment admired my bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 27 September, 2011, 10:54:53 pm
Monday night was a bit wet.  Scratch that.  At times I thought I was cycling along a river! There were quite a few blocked drains in East London, with flooding up to people's gardens.  It also meant that when I had to put my foot down it was often covered by water.  I was soooo glad I was on the Hewitt with its disc brakes.  If I had been on my other bike I would probably have walked a fair bit.  In spite of the weather, no real problems with other road users.

The best bit about tonight's commute was getting out of the office.  As I came out of the lift from our basement storage room a cyclist heading down complimented me on my new steed.  So we got to chatting.  Turns out we were both on one of Paul Taylor's rides to the Golding Hop (the floods & muddy fields edition).  Then found out our respective areas of work have some cross-over, so a chat over a coffee has been arranged for later in the week.  :)

Dry weather tonight but lots of tail-backs.  This evening also re-affirmed some thing I've learned.
Rule of the Road #1: If a motorist in in any way delayed or inconvenienced the should MUST disregard the Highway Code along with Teh Law and operate their vehicles in the most selfish manner possible.  If people were more considerate junctions wouldn't get blocked and traffic would all flow much better. *sigh*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 27 September, 2011, 10:58:00 pm
Traffic seemed unusually heavy tonight. And when drivers are held up, their patience is soon worn thin.

Ho hum.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 27 September, 2011, 11:00:08 pm
Some of the heavy traffic in E. London was due to West Ham playing at home.  As I've heard no cheering this evening one can only assume most of the drivers had a wasted journey.  Again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 27 September, 2011, 11:27:09 pm
Traffic has been strangely light for a couple weeks on my commute.
 
Odd.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 28 September, 2011, 08:17:59 am
Mmm... Autumny goodness on this morning's pseudo commute. Not cold though.

(http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6158/6191519690_fc86239356.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40735552@N05/6191519690/)
IMAG0272 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40735552@N05/6191519690/) by Pelotonhound (http://www.flickr.com/people/40735552@N05/), on Flickr
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: eeymsmo on 28 September, 2011, 08:18:59 am
Gorgeous purplish hue to the sunrise once I got outside the Nottingham build up.

2nd morning commute in a row with an overall average >17.5mph. Looks like some half arsed training is starting to pay off  :thumbsup:

Only downside was that I misread the time at the point where I need to decide on the short or long loop, took the short loop and ended up at work early.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bloomers100 on 28 September, 2011, 08:44:57 am
Patchy fog across mid Essex. Pockets of warm air in amongst the trees mixed with chilly mist on the open plains.

 (http://i751.photobucket.com/albums/xx158/Bloomers100/IMAG0088.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 28 September, 2011, 08:47:49 am
wow - love the picture!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 28 September, 2011, 09:00:03 am
Early commute.  Started in the dark with mists - love those pictures, folks. :)  First morning of this winter I had all four lights blazing.  And it wasn't only the lights which were blazing.  I set off really fast, taking advantage of the lack of traffic, gaining two minutes by my quarter hour point.  But I think I overdid it a bit, as it was hard to sustain, though I finished with an average of 26.7kph, which is very good for me.  I think I like early mornings :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 28 September, 2011, 09:07:09 am
I should have taken a picture too this morning.  Sun blazing through the mist to make monochrome cut outs of the trees
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 28 September, 2011, 09:11:05 am
Quote from: bloomers100 on 28 September, 2011, 08:44:57 am
Patchy fog across mid Essex. Pockets of warm air in amongst the trees mixed with chilly mist on the open plains.

 (http://i751.photobucket.com/albums/xx158/Bloomers100/IMAG0088.jpg)



What are two ostriches doing in Essex? (on the left of the picture)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 28 September, 2011, 09:14:25 am
Seems the weather gods have the equinoxes confused again.

Slow puncture this morning. I just topped the tube up and it was good enough to get me to work. I hope I remember to replace the tube lunchtime I hate remembering at the end of the day. Doh!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Snakehips on 28 September, 2011, 09:17:02 am
Quote from: Riggers on 28 September, 2011, 09:11:05 am
What are two ostriches doing in Essex? (on the left of the picture)

Smoking pipes I think.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bloomers100 on 28 September, 2011, 09:54:36 am
Quote from: Snakehips on 28 September, 2011, 09:17:02 am
Quote from: Riggers on 28 September, 2011, 09:11:05 am
What are two ostriches doing in Essex? (on the left of the picture)

Smoking pipes I think.

It's a mystery to me I'll check it out on way home.

 (http://i751.photobucket.com/albums/xx158/Bloomers100/IMAG0089_edit0.jpg)

One more for you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 28 September, 2011, 09:56:59 am
Ostriches or not, it's much more picturesque than sarf Lahndan at dawn, I can tell you! ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 28 September, 2011, 10:07:16 am
...was barged by a roadie with the slogan Ride Free or Die on his shorts. 

Sir, it's really not polite to barge through between other riders as they move away from the lights. Please overtake on the right.  Oh, and the red lights mean stop.

Add to that the closest overtake I have ever experienced (and I mean ever) near Surrey Docks, the kamikaze pedestrian on London Bridge and the twit who decided to stop his Merc across the turning into Lombard Street and it could have been a grumpy ride in. 

But it's sunny  ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 28 September, 2011, 10:35:22 am
I do hope it was no-one on here, but I saw the most hilarious clipless moment at the junction of King's Road last night. Hapless roadie who was already unclipped fell over onto his clipped in side. Then somehow, in trying to get up quickly, was so tangled up in his bike he seemed unable to remount. Somehow I think he'd either put his foot through the front triangle and then lifted the bike up, so he woulfd then have need to either hop out of the frame, or he'd got the top tube caught under his thigh. Aynway, it was top marks for ungainliness!
Then the lights turned green and I rode off. I was hoping he would catch me up so I could tease him, but he must have gone a different way from me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 28 September, 2011, 10:42:00 am
Such a glorious morning, perfect for a ride.

So of course I left the house too late. Missed my train by about 30 seconds. I could blame the cars that held me up at three places on the way to the station but really I should have set off sooner.  :facepalm:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Snakehips on 28 September, 2011, 10:47:03 am
Quote from: alexb on 28 September, 2011, 10:35:22 am
.....  who was already unclipped fell over onto his clipped in side.

I did that once.
It was in the early hours of the morning , a few years ago , somewhere in Suffolk.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 28 September, 2011, 10:53:30 am
Oxford Street this morning. Stopped at a red light, bloke on a boris sweeps through only to screech to an ungainly halt to avoid being mashed by the cross traffic. Me: "Yes, that'll be why it was red"

Annoyingly though, they seem to have switched off the "Your speed is" radar on the roadworks a bit further down, getting it to show 30+ was a daily personal goal (made a challenge by the lights, traffic etc although possible at the time I go through - 7am). They have put in instead a "20 mph" flashing sign that's just too easy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 28 September, 2011, 12:24:23 pm
The warm weather seemed to have brought the muppets of hibernation for the day, a ridiculous number of close passes by blue van men. Many thanks to the red fiesta driver who held his ground and didn't cut into me when blue van overtook him into oncoming traffic where the dual carriageway becomes a single lane  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 28 September, 2011, 01:47:41 pm
Quote from: Ham on 28 September, 2011, 10:53:30 am
Oxford Street this morning. Stopped at a red light, bloke on a boris sweeps through only to screech to an ungainly halt to avoid being mashed by the cross traffic. Me: "Yes, that'll be why it was red"

Annoyingly though, they seem to have switched off the "Your speed is" radar on the roadworks a bit further down, getting it to show 30+ was a daily personal goal (made a challenge by the lights, traffic etc although possible at the time I go through - 7am). They have put in instead a "20 mph" flashing sign that's just too easy.

So it's OK to break the law by speeding, but not by RLJ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 28 September, 2011, 01:50:45 pm
Quote from: fboab on 28 September, 2011, 01:47:41 pm
So it's OK to break the law by speeding, but not by RLJ?
I suspect you know this already and are just being daft but speed limits generally apply to motor vehicles and not to bikes
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 28 September, 2011, 01:57:57 pm
Quote from: Si_Co on 28 September, 2011, 12:24:23 pm
The warm weather seemed to have brought the muppets of hibernation for the day, a ridiculous number of close passes by blue van men. Many thanks to the red fiesta driver who held his ground and didn't cut into me when blue van overtook him into oncoming traffic where the dual carriageway becomes a single lane  :thumbsup:

Tell me about it, I had an outrageous one this morning, shaved at speed by a lorry with what looked like a portakabin on the back.  At a pinch point.  If I've clear footage I'll Roadsafe the bastard.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: welshwheels on 28 September, 2011, 05:22:49 pm
nice ride in this morning and stunning views over the loughour estuary this evening and had a mano el mano moment on the coast road side by side with a roadie in sky kit on a carbon boardman me on a single speed with a rucksack a merino wool top from aldi and a pair of camo shorts I caught him then he draughted me for about a mile then pulled out to overtake me and there he stayed  ;D  we did have a mega tail wind and if you know the road it is plenty wide enough for us to go side by side this went on for a while then he turned off to go towards burry port and I went in to llanelli . Bloody knackered now mind  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 28 September, 2011, 06:10:19 pm
Quote from: fboab on 28 September, 2011, 01:47:41 pm
Quote from: Ham on 28 September, 2011, 10:53:30 am
Oxford Street this morning. Stopped at a red light, bloke on a boris sweeps through only to screech to an ungainly halt to avoid being mashed by the cross traffic. Me: "Yes, that'll be why it was red"

Annoyingly though, they seem to have switched off the "Your speed is" radar on the roadworks a bit further down, getting it to show 30+ was a daily personal goal (made a challenge by the lights, traffic etc although possible at the time I go through - 7am). They have put in instead a "20 mph" flashing sign that's just too easy.

So it's OK to break the law by speeding, but not by RLJ?

Go on, I'll take you seriously.

Yes. At least in this section.  Yes I do stop at all the Oxford Street lights, yes I would occasionally exceed 30 as at this point I take the lane and ride with traffic at the speed of the traffic.

Oh, and it's a fun challenge given the very short run up you normally get.

And wot vorsprung sed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Domestique on 28 September, 2011, 08:05:33 pm
I had forgotten the Cyo effect along with a dark evening  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 28 September, 2011, 08:12:32 pm
Bloody great ride home too, even though it was down the A23.  See, even Croydon and a Streatham-load of motorised fuckwits can't spoil cycling in this weather. :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 28 September, 2011, 09:56:43 pm
I'm riding a 64.8" gear at the moment (reduced from the usual 69.4"), for blah blah blah reasons. More interestingly, it seems to make absolutely no difference to my average speed on my commute. I don't even think I'm noticeably faster uphill.

I'm possibly slightly slower downhill, though this morning I hit a max speed of 58.5km/h, which is something in the region of 190rpm. My souplesse is coming along nicely.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 28 September, 2011, 10:01:21 pm
Quote from: welshwheels on 28 September, 2011, 05:22:49 pm
nice ride in this morning and stunning views over the loughour estuary this evening and had a mano el mano moment on the coast road side by side with a roadie in sky kit on a carbon boardman me on a single speed with a rucksack a merino wool top from aldi and a pair of camo shorts I caught him then he draughted me for about a mile then pulled out to overtake me and there he stayed  ;D  we did have a mega tail wind and if you know the road it is plenty wide enough for us to go side by side this went on for a while then he turned off to go towards burry port and I went in to llanelli . Bloody knackered now mind  :facepalm:

Bloody gorgeous stretch that. Am hoping to go there next week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 29 September, 2011, 08:10:11 am
Decided to extend the commute this morning to watch the sun come up over Greenwich Park and Blackheath.  The blinking lights of other cyclists descending the hill as I rode up, even at that early hour was really pretty. As I began riding up the hill, I could see a rear light blinking away, but obviously stationary.  Soon, I realised it was not attached to a bike, but lying on the floor, obviously lost by someone descending at speed.  I stopped and picked it up.  It is a Topeak Redlight.  The little bolt which fixed it to the fitting has come loose and disappeared, but the light still works. If it belongs to anyone on here, I can easily get it back to you if you are a aregular Greenwich Park commuter.
By the way, the sunrise was beautiful- the glinting towers of the City and Canary Wharf rising like strange ghosts out of the river mists- magical and menacing all at once.
   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 29 September, 2011, 08:46:27 am
Lovely ride home last night, get to gate, remove bag to find pocket where i keep the keys is open and no keys. Retrace route with close analysis of the opposite gutter to no avail, get back to work to find keys still in bike lock in bike rack  :facepalm: :facepalm:

Ah well at least it was sunny and i did enjoy the ride home take 2, tired this morning though after a double commute.

Lovin the weather  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 29 September, 2011, 08:56:14 am
I actually rode to work. First time in 4 weeks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 29 September, 2011, 08:58:04 am
Feeling rough yesterday, I left early expecting to enjoy the ride back (in a kill or cure mode)

However, that meant that I hit Kensington / Notting Hill JUST at school run time.......

And my bottom bracket bearing buggeredup (which also put the moccers on the Alfine).

Then the traffic was abominable throughout.

I don't think it cured. I'm at home today.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 29 September, 2011, 09:23:15 am
Morning ride past mists on the Common.  Rode with Butterfly to her work, then tried to follow a bike route through the back to mine.  I missed a couple of turns - one because a road into Burgess Park was not only closed, but had hoardings from wall to wall. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 29 September, 2011, 09:32:50 am
Quote from: clarion on 29 September, 2011, 09:23:15 am
Morning ride past mists on the Common.  Rode with Butterfly to her work, then tried to follow a bike route through the back to mine.  I missed a couple of turns - one because a road into Burgess Park was not only closed, but had hoardings from wall to wall. :(
Burgess Park was part of my quieter route to town.  Now they are doing something to it (improvements, or some such, costing millions.) I have given up trying to find a way through it and use Southampton Way and Wells Way now instead.  I have no idea why it needed improving.  It has a BMX park, ( although I believe this has been closed due to the "improvements") a boating pond, a play park, cafe and lots of green grass.  It's quite a nice park as it stands, a huge improvement on the mix of bomb sites and slum housing I remember from my childhood.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 29 September, 2011, 09:35:44 am
Burgess Park is a bit flat and open and grassy and, well, boring.  I'm sure it could be improved, but I'm not sure whether what they are doing is that improvement.

The cafe is well worth a visit.  Theis mushrooms on toast is wonderful. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 29 September, 2011, 10:04:29 am
Quote from: jane on 29 September, 2011, 08:10:11 am
Decided to extend the commute this morning to watch the sun come up over Greenwich Park and Blackheath.

How lovely! Similarly, I set off a bit earlier and did my longer morning route from Whitstable to Sittingbourne. Didn't really see much of the sun as my route is westerly, so it was warming my back as it rose, but I did get to enjoy the early morning mist over Seasalter marshes, much beloved of the FNRttC.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 29 September, 2011, 11:21:52 am
38kph max speed.  Uphill.  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ms on 29 September, 2011, 12:10:40 pm
Quote
Gorgeous purplish hue to the sunrise once I got outside the Nottingham build up.

2nd morning commute in a row with an overall average >17.5mph. Looks like some half arsed training is starting to pay off 


Must have been something in the Nottm. air yesterday, I had fastest commute this year - in and out. Was 'helped' by a tractor for a couple of miles out of the village though. Whch was nice. Then a treat looking over the trent on radcliffe tops with the mist settled over the river and the sun rising above it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tom_e on 29 September, 2011, 12:14:46 pm
Warm again! The body, it is confused by this hot/cold business..
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 29 September, 2011, 12:44:48 pm
What I find confusing when riding at dusk or early morning is moving through alternating patches of warm and cold air. Odd yet quite pleasant.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: swiss hat on 29 September, 2011, 12:57:30 pm
Saw a penny farthing being ridden by a young lady in Old Street, London at 06:50. Anyone known here?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 29 September, 2011, 01:04:10 pm
I would guess that's Kat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 29 September, 2011, 01:19:01 pm
That was a lovely ride in today. I was sat waiting for the lights to green at the south end of Vauxhall bridge and there were lots of cyclists with happy faces. The Thames was in a gorgeous dreamy quality of millpondness.

Only real incident: I was at the front of the queue of traffic queue just before Chelsea Bridge. Traffic goes green for Chelsea Bridge and Chelsea Bridge Road and this super-dooper lycra-clad Condor chap goes sweeping right onto the embankment rd in front of a police van, when he really should have just waited for the oncoming traffic to clear  ::-) He realised what he had done because he was wearing a rueful grin. Both members of plod in the van look at one another and then stick on the lights and siren in pursuit. That police van could have very easily have killed him so I hope he gets a good talking to.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 29 September, 2011, 01:49:14 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 29 September, 2011, 01:19:01 pm
Only real incident: I was at the front of the queue of traffic queue just before Chelsea Bridge. Traffic goes green for Chelsea Bridge and Chelsea Bridge Road and this super-dooper lycra-clad Condor chap goes sweeping right onto the embankment rd in front of a police van, when he really should have just waited for the oncoming traffic to clear  ::-) He realised what he had done because he was wearing a rueful grin. Both members of plod in the van look at one another and then stick on the lights and siren in pursuit. That police van could have very easily have killed him so I hope he gets a good talking to.

A few Sundays back I was hanging around Gloucester Gate at Regent's Park awaiting a ride partner.  There is a traffic light here.  Sadly, the vast majority of cyclists (and 99% of those doing laps of the park) ignored the lights when red, even when there were cars stopped.  There was one female rider in particular who did this - the stopped car was clearly emblazoned with hi-viz stripes and the word POLICE.  :facepalm: They switched on their lights and went after her. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 29 September, 2011, 02:04:30 pm
Last night in Streatham, I caught up with a wood burning taxi.  At least, I think that's what it must have been, else why such huge clouds of filthy black smoke being chucked out?  I finally got past him, saying 'Get that car off the road!' in his window as I did.

Three vehicles in front was a van full of Police.  So I stopped sharply, walked back, and told them about the taxi, and about the illegal rear plate.  The traffic moved on a bit, and I got the chance to geg the offender's number, so I reported that in the window.

I assume that they pulled him over and booked him, since neither vehicle passed me again.  Mind you, given where it was, they wouldn't have anyway.  I hope that a member of the public reporting offences to a Police Officer not otherwise engaged would precipitate action.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Rimnod on 29 September, 2011, 02:13:49 pm
Yesterday the main road into St Andrews was closed due to a nasty accident after Guardbridge so the minor roads around the town were reduced to something between chaos and gridlock.

Heading into town along the cycle path I had traffic travelling slightly faster than I could muster.  A silver Renault Berlingo van/car thing comes along side and starts to drift into the cycle lane, I shout a warning as I had no possible escape route and the vehicle continues to squeeze me towards the high kerb.

So I decided to tap on the rear passengers as a warning.  Suddenly a west highland terrier appears vertically (think jump jet) going absolutely mental, ears back with the look of demonic possession.  Nearly filled my shorts.

Driver moves back into road and my heart rate starts to fall back to kind of normal rate but the dog continues to headbutt the window in an attempt to eat me alive.
   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 29 September, 2011, 07:47:44 pm
Ignoring RLJs and annoying peds (potential rant) it was a lovely commute today.  I even managed to stop and take a picture of my computer at a significant moment (https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-dlIBm377OyA/ToS61TzUVaI/AAAAAAAABLs/EOIsl94RqmE/s512/IMG_0066.JPG) while on my way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 29 September, 2011, 09:25:35 pm
Some real motorised insanity (there is no other word for it) tonight.  But it was a pretty good ride.

Sadly, Clapham High St was taped off by Police.  There's been an incident there.  There was a bike leaning against a corner next to a WPC, but it didn't look damaged on a quick glance, so may be nothing to do with it.  No other vehicles in the taped area other than Police ones, so measuring and clearing up.  I did hear a conversation between a ghoulish passerby and a PCSO stood with his bike keeping people clear.  The only answer I heard to the probing questions was 'No, he's not dead.'  That's enough, and I was on my way anyway.

The rest of the ride was smooth and almost rode itself :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 30 September, 2011, 07:55:48 am
Started in blackness, back on my repaired tourer.  Then there was the mist, then the heartening gathering of cyclists junction by junction along the route.  Fast and fun.  Just didn't want to stop.

In Balham, I saw a chap with his bike upside down.  Probably another puncture, I thought, and I always stop if its possible to check folk have levers, tube, pump etc.  But it was the second stuck chain I've helped with in recent weeks.  It had overshifted behind the cassette, and the rider's tugging wasn't really getting him anywhere.  I had a look, and found it was catching on the cassette rivets, so I tried bending it a bit and it came loose.  He asked why it had happened, and I pointed out his adjustment screw was all the way out, and what to do about it.  Then I mounted up and got on my way again, perhaps a bit slower than before, but with a warm glow from having helped.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 30 September, 2011, 08:06:30 am
Tired today, after Wednesday's double commute my legs were telling me they've already done their 110 commuter miles this week and what the hell are you playing at?

At least the roads were relatively quiet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 30 September, 2011, 08:08:47 am
...still on the bus and train.  It sucks.  I've a deep cough and don't think I should be riding my commute for a bit.  I'm pushing things already just by working I feel.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bloomers100 on 30 September, 2011, 08:29:02 am
Quote from: Riggers on 28 September, 2011, 09:11:05 am
Quote from: bloomers100 on 28 September, 2011, 08:44:57 am
Patchy fog across mid Essex. Pockets of warm air in amongst the trees mixed with chilly mist on the open plains.

 (http://i751.photobucket.com/albums/xx158/Bloomers100/IMAG0088.jpg)



What are two ostriches doing in Essex? (on the left of the picture)


 (http://i751.photobucket.com/albums/xx158/Bloomers100/IMAG0092.jpg)

There you go.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 30 September, 2011, 08:30:30 am
Yup.  Definitely ostriches.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bloomers100 on 30 September, 2011, 08:32:14 am
(http://i751.photobucket.com/albums/xx158/Bloomers100/IMAG0098.jpg)
Todays offering.

Five days on the bounce for me 186 miles by the time I get home tonight.  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: eeymsmo on 30 September, 2011, 08:40:35 am
Quote from: bloomers100 on 30 September, 2011, 08:32:14 am
(http://i751.photobucket.com/albums/xx158/Bloomers100/IMAG0098.jpg)
Todays offering.

Much the same view from the outskirts of Nottingham this morning. The sudden changes in temperature were a bit bracing in places, happily barreling along in shorts and short sleeves feeling quite warm, turn a corner and suddenly freezing.

Whatever's happening to the weather is good for me, 18.7mph overall average for the 15 miles this morning  :thumbsup:

And it seems to be good for drivers as well. Lots of space being given whilst overtaking this morning.

I think this evening's going to see me clawing back some owed time from earlier in the week for an extended commute home to make the most of this weather.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 30 September, 2011, 09:06:40 am
Quote from: citoyen on 28 September, 2011, 09:56:43 pm
I'm riding a 64.8" gear at the moment (reduced from the usual 69.4"), for blah blah blah reasons. More interestingly, it seems to make absolutely no difference to my average speed on my commute.

Eh - How's that work then?

Same rider. Same Route. Same GPS. Same conditions. Swapped from Tigger (72") to 'flower (67") and the average goes from 25.4 to 26.2 ??? 

Shall I join you on 65" and see how it goes ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 30 September, 2011, 11:31:39 am
Ride in was great, bumped into Oliver from the Greenwich parish so we happily pootled along until the Oval where he turned down to the A3 to his workplace in Richmond whilst I carried on through to Chelsea. Crisp at first and then warming up rapidly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: urban_biker on 30 September, 2011, 11:38:29 am
Cycling through Havant towards Bedhampton last night and saw a group of cyclists turning right at the traffic lights. The group included someone on a hand-pedalled recumbent which is not something you see out here in the provinces very often.

Loads of cyclists out overall though. It must be the weather - if only the summer had been like this ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 30 September, 2011, 11:44:14 am
This morning's ride was a strange one.  I rode the heavy Hewitt, as there's a chance I might go from work to CM and then to Oxford for the FNRttS without heading home in between. 

All those gears!  And the freewheel!  I spent half the journey working out what the funny rattling noise was and worrying that the B17 was not set up right, and the second half telling myself that I must remember to tweak the front mech to stop the rattle and being alarmed by the rear wheel shifting in the dropouts when I went over a bigger than usual pothole.  All in all, this prevented me from enjoying the sunshine.

It made me realise how the simplicity of my usual commute bike enables me to enjoy the ride and watch/listen to my surroundings
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 30 September, 2011, 06:22:38 pm
That were a bit warm, 28C. Nice ride though
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 01 October, 2011, 02:58:01 pm
The problem with this June it starts to get dark at 7 O'clock. 

Longer commute last night as I went to look at some new houses much nearer work than mine.  As ever the builders lie about the location.  I would describe it as North Bridgend with a view of the Brackla industrial estate.  The builders say it is Coity which is a lovely little village with a castle. Nothing suitable there for my funds.  So commute will stay the same.


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 01 October, 2011, 08:22:38 pm
Came across a crashed cyclist today, climbing the hill to the Keston turnoff.  It's a narrow lane with double white lines and a number of blind bends, and a bus had been following her for a while, patiently.  She, a young-middle-aged lady, was feeling bad at holding up the traffic, so tried to nip up a dropped kerb for a driveway, only it wasn't that dropped and had a lip that took out her front wheel and got her off.  She was lying on her side waiting for the ambo when I got there, but I hope had no more than bruising and scrapes.  She was already looked after by people there, and the bus driver had stopped with his hazards on and was directing traffic around his bus.  Best wishes to her...

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 02 October, 2011, 01:20:02 pm
And good man that bus driver!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 02 October, 2011, 09:44:25 pm
Quote from: tonycollinet on 02 October, 2011, 01:20:02 pm
And good man that bus driver!

I hope so, I think so, but I can't help a tiny little worm of doubt as to how close he was following her, and how much pressure there was on her.  I do think it's unlikely, bus drivers on my commute are exceptionally good for the most part, so I feel a bit guilty at being unable to expunge these unworthy thoughts.

Came across another lady cyclist today with an unshipped chain which I helped with.  I suspect she might have managed just fine on her own, she was one of those old dears who epitomise the very best of English competence and can-do.  She said I know someone who rides a bike like that, he has a bad back. I was like "Ah, his name is Andy." and she was surprised, LOL!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 02 October, 2011, 10:37:27 pm
On the commute tomorrow...

I have a feeling that there will be a lot of muppets on bikes.  Just a feeling.
Title: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 02 October, 2011, 11:54:52 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 02 October, 2011, 10:37:27 pm
On the commute tomorrow...

I have a feeling that there will be a lot of muppets on bikes.  Just a feeling.

I resemble that accusation!
Title: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 02 October, 2011, 11:56:28 pm
Actually I'm off the bike commute for a week. Have to fly across the pond to the land of the free(aks).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 October, 2011, 09:12:21 am
Nice commute in this morning.  My bike; Adrian's wheel.  Gave me a sort of in between set of gears, but nevertheless gave me the luxury of a bottom gear to play with.  Rode to Butterfly's work, where she showed me the fabulous huge copy of an old map they have pasted to the wall, then did some pathfinding on cycle routes/back roads in to work.  Lovely weather, and quiet traffic, despite a terrible snarlup round a very short section of roadworks near home with badly timed lights.

Not sure how fast my ride was - no magnet on the swapped-in wheel. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 03 October, 2011, 09:28:43 am
In the 20mph zone near the schools in Trull I hit 20mph+ (38kph to be exact) as I passed the 20mph downhill and held this speed for the entire zone.
I was overtaken by one law breaking motor vehicle
A Berrys Bus with a yellow "school bus" symbol in the back
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 03 October, 2011, 09:34:16 am
It was a lovely ride this morning; plenty warm enough in t-shirt, shorts and sandals. On the third of October - crazy!

There seemed to be a lot of buzzing, stinging, biting bugs around though.

<scratch> <scratch>

<itch>
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 03 October, 2011, 10:10:57 am
Only one serious muppet today, as it turned out - I was coming up behind a dumper truck that started to slow down and move to the right, obviously in preparation for a sharp left turn. He wasn't signalling but it was pretty clear what was going to happen, so I slowed down and put myself where he could see me in his driver's side mirror.  Muppet on a fashion fixie undertakes me and sails down the left.  Happily, even though he was too lazy to signal, the driver was using his mirrors and braked.  Mr fashion fixie sailed on in oblivion and then through a red light with peds crossing. 

BTW, what's this thing for untaped bars with no caps?  I imagine a fall on to one of those could leave a serious dent in your soft squishy parts  :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 03 October, 2011, 11:19:55 am
New cadence record set this morning. 60km/h = 195rpm or thereabouts.

Also won a battle of wills with a UPS truck. He tried to come past me at the top of Fountain Drive but didn't have time to complete the manoeuvre before having to slow down for the first speed bump. Then he tried to speed up again. Then he had to slow down again. And so on.

I was a bit concerned that I was in his blind spot so pushed hard to get ahead. Actually got airborne over one of the bumps. Which is always interesting on fixed. But the alternative would have been slowing down and waiting behind him. I was clear of him by the third speed bump then moved out into the middle of the road to dissuade him from trying to pass me again. Of course, by the bottom of the hill, he was a long way behind me.

I'd like to think a smidgen of clue rubbed off on him, but I doubt it.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 October, 2011, 11:21:16 am
That's impressive spinning.  My best is 50kph ish.  And that's really rather twirly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 03 October, 2011, 11:26:02 am
Quote from: Redlight on 03 October, 2011, 10:10:57 am
Only one serious muppet today, as it turned out - I was coming up behind a dumper truck that started to slow down and move to BTW, what's this thing for untaped bars with no caps?  I imagine a fall on to one of those could leave a serious dent in your soft squishy parts  :sick:
Fashion or laziness. Take your pick, although I suspect the former.

Plenty of those types around York College this morning, although the 'fashion fakenger' effect is spoilt horrendously when they start to freewheel  ::-) Personally, I like to leave these types flailing in my wake - must be a real kick in the metaphorical nuts to be blown off the road by a fat bastard on a yellow fixed which sports two (count 'em) racks, two (count 'em again) brakes and a mirror  ;D

Keep practising, kids ... you'll get it one day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 03 October, 2011, 11:40:28 am
Quote from: clarion on 03 October, 2011, 11:21:16 am
That's impressive spinning.  My best is 50kph ish.  And that's really rather twirly.

It's not long ago that I would have found 180rpm teeth-janglingly scary, but it's a truism that the more you do it, the easier it gets.

Of course, I could tell at the time that I was going pretty fast, but I was surprised when I checked the clock afterwards that I'd set a new PB because it didn't feel especially scary. If only I could find a hill long enough, I might be able to break 200rpm! (62km/h on current gearing)

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tinez on 03 October, 2011, 12:40:28 pm
On my ride in this morning I got shouted at by another bike commuter for riding too close behind him - " overtake me or back off". I apologised and shot off up the road.

We were going uphill and i was probably about a bike length behind him for about 30 meters. I hadn't overtaken him by this point as there was a parked bus just in front of us and I was waiting to get past it before I overtook.

All felt a bit odd. I'm genuinely sorry if I made another bike commuter feel harassed but I'm not sure what I was doing wrong. Maybe my front light was bothering him or he thought I was closer to him than I actually was.

I've been thinking about it way longer than I would if I'd had a close call with a motorist.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 October, 2011, 12:42:20 pm
Could have been worried you were trying to get a tow, or else might have been concerned about his own gears in case he needed to change down.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tinez on 03 October, 2011, 12:50:59 pm
Quote from: clarion on 03 October, 2011, 12:42:20 pm
Could have been worried you were trying to get a tow, or else might have been concerned about his own gears in case he needed to change down.

We were going uphill on a very still morning so not much advantage in wheelsucking.

Concern about shifting seems like a better bet but there was plenty of space and he looked like an experienced rider so I wouldn't have thought he would have slowed much whilst shifting.

Anyway, on the off chance  he hangs around here I offer another genuine apology - I don't like upsetting other hard working law abiding bike commuters.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 03 October, 2011, 01:53:50 pm
Skidded on acorns in the cemetery.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 03 October, 2011, 01:54:43 pm
that could be deadly

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 03 October, 2011, 04:08:12 pm
Quote from: Tinez on 03 October, 2011, 12:50:59 pm
Quote from: clarion on 03 October, 2011, 12:42:20 pm
Could have been worried you were trying to get a tow, or else might have been concerned about his own gears in case he needed to change down.

We were going uphill on a very still morning so not much advantage in wheelsucking.

Concern about shifting seems like a better bet but there was plenty of space and he looked like an experienced rider so I wouldn't have thought he would have slowed much whilst shifting.

Anyway, on the off chance  he hangs around here I offer another genuine apology - I don't like upsetting other hard working law abiding bike commuters.

I've had to yell behind on a couple of occasions when people get too close. Normally I say, 'overtake me or back off'.

I was on my way to work this morning, on my new bike (Specialized Vita Sport) and the speed along the embankment was heavenly. Suddenly I notice the shadow of a front wheel and I could feel they were trying to pass me so I upped my pace. The shadow disappeared. Just as I was getting the red light at the junction I turned round and said 'that was fun' to a lovely lady that normally passes me at speed when I have been huffing and puffing away on my heavy Decathlon bike.

I bloody well love my new bike  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 October, 2011, 04:10:01 pm
Glad you've got a new bike, but worried how fast you're going to be now. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 03 October, 2011, 04:17:28 pm
Quote from: clarion on 03 October, 2011, 04:10:01 pm
Glad you've got a new bike, but worried how fast you're going to be now. :)

I might be nearly as fast as you Clarion  ;D

The new bike is currently locked outside the library with two good D-Locks (a la Barry Mason) but I am trying to persuade my colleague if I can bring it inside (like when I worked at Lambeth I could take my bike into any of the 9 libraries). She has been working here 42 years and when something new is introduced then she doesn't like it very much.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 October, 2011, 04:18:25 pm
I like the look of the Vitas.  I'm looking forward to next time we're riding together.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 03 October, 2011, 04:43:08 pm
Quote from: clarion on 03 October, 2011, 04:18:25 pm
I like the look of the Vitas.  I'm looking forward to next time we're riding together.

Me too  :thumbsup: This particular Vita does not look bling-bling either. Going to pick up some back lights for it this evening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 03 October, 2011, 05:40:27 pm
what colour is it?  I'll keep a watch out for you on the way home
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 03 October, 2011, 07:12:22 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 03 October, 2011, 05:40:27 pm
what colour is it?  I'll keep a watch out for you on the way home

Matt black. It is quite conservative looking.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 October, 2011, 08:18:36 pm
I had a grand ride home, and extended it to include our little training loop.  Legs a bit knackered now. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 03 October, 2011, 10:27:50 pm
When will this infernal heat end?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 03 October, 2011, 11:32:46 pm
An absolute classic moron on the way home.

I was going broadly south along Ellison Road (near Streatham Common Station), coming up to the junction with Kempshott Road (http://maps.google.co.uk/?ll=51.417195,-0.133343&spn=0.002603,0.004823&t=m&vpsrc=6&z=18), looking at this view (http://maps.google.co.uk/?ll=51.417141,-0.133263&spn=0.005179,0.009645&t=m&z=17&vpsrc=6&layer=c&cbll=51.417194,-0.133341&panoid=uaAdiQDo5Jy-EH7Q2dihzw&cbp=12,125.77,,0,19.42) only somewhat darker, when a car pulled out from Kempshott Road, directly in front of me.  I'd half been expecting him to do it, since a good proportion of cars do, since they don't expect vehicles coming from the direction I was coming from.  It's only legal for bicycles, not motor vehicles.  Of course, it's been like that for years, but most car drivers don't bother looking and just pull straight out.

Of course, Mr gormless stops to remonstrate with me.  Apparently I'd been in the middle of the road.  So, why did he still pull out in front of me? (I wasn't, I was well within the lines, but legally could still have been outside of them, and was clearly visible to anyone who looked). Then "Have you got lights", which is so laughable that I called him a cretin and cycled off, having exhausted my politeness and stupid bloody idiot quota for the evening.

As anyone who has seen me at night knows, I've got an Exposure Race Maxx front light, Dinotte Rear Light, and CatEye LD1100 spare rear light, all of which were operating fine.  Anyone who has to question whether I've got lights not only wasn't looking when he first saw me, but hadn't even glanced at them since I'd stopped.  These are not dim lights, by any measure.

He's too stupid to be allowed out without supervision, and certainly not worth expending any effort on arguing with, since I was "clearly in the wrong", and absolutely nothing I said would have changed his opinion.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 04 October, 2011, 08:59:19 am
Quote from: spindrift on 03 October, 2011, 10:27:50 pm
When will this infernal heat end?

I looked at all the weather stuff this morning and for me in Devon, Thursday seems to be considerably cooler
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 04 October, 2011, 09:26:25 am
Meto: Chilly with showers on Thursday, and strong, gusty northwesterly winds. Fewer showers on Friday as winds moderate, then a possible slight frost in places overnight. Further rain on Saturday.

Brrrr...  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 October, 2011, 09:27:05 am
Tim, did you get a reg?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 October, 2011, 09:31:33 am
Great ride this morning, up over Streatham with Butterfly, passing an idiot in a Porsche and an idiot in an MR2 on the way up Mitcham Lane. :D

Then through the back roads to work, getting slightly less lost than last time I did it.  I found a good cut through this morning.  Early to work, so I added a small loop, just for the fun of it. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 04 October, 2011, 09:47:02 am
Three HGVs today at different points on the commute all hung back, waited for the right moment and then overtook perfectly. Neat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 04 October, 2011, 10:28:14 am
Quote from: spindrift on 03 October, 2011, 10:27:50 pm
When will this infernal heat end?

You had to ask, didn't you?

Mind you, it wasn't exactly cold this morning - not by normal October standards.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 04 October, 2011, 11:53:18 am
Swift commute in due to my Vita (did I tell you I have a new bike  ;D). As I was trundling up to Vauxhall I spotted Gareth Thomas (ex-Welsh rugby player) at the traffic lights and yelled out 'Morning Gareth' and I got a cheery 'Morning' back  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tlottrike on 04 October, 2011, 01:45:14 pm
Would have been a lurvly cycle to work along the cyclepath but was all ruined by two joggers with meandering dogs.

Dog owners didn't agree that their meandering dogs should be on a lead despite nearly taking out myself and another cyclist in the space of a few minutes.

One of the owners said I should "cycle on the road" instead of cycling on a Cycle Path :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 October, 2011, 04:08:30 pm
Having set off with neither a magnet on the wheel, nor a computer calibrated to that wheel even if I had had a magnet, I used a previous route and estimated distance and speed.  That was OK.  And on the way home, I used my direct route home and added on a frequent training loop to give a known distance.

But when i set off from work, I noticed that, though it was reading 0, the computer had come out of dormant mode.  I quickly realised that meant it was, of course, receiving the cadence signal, so I had the unusual experience of watching my cadence, yet with 0kph showing.  I was mostly around 85-90rpm, which is what I'd expect, though I noticed that, at 120rpm, the cadence reading suddenly halved, so I was storming downhill on a 75" gear, with only 60rpm showing.  At one point, when I estimate I was doing about 45kph, it hit 39rpm ;D

But otherwise, it was an interesting exercise to see how steady I could pace myself, and how accurately I could make small adjustments.  Worth trying I suppose, though I had pretty much decided my next computer wasn't going to have cadence on. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 04 October, 2011, 04:57:58 pm
45kmph at 39rpm, wow, how do you push such a humongous gear? You must have thighs like a giraffe!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 October, 2011, 05:00:40 pm
I amaze myself.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dinamo on 04 October, 2011, 05:11:03 pm
Windy commute across Bristol this lunchtime.
( Hopefully should result in a tailwind later ! )
Downloaded the Sportstracker GPS to my phone earlier which showed that l managed an average of 20.6 km/h.
Quite a good GPS for free also shows route, speed & altitude graphs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 04 October, 2011, 08:14:51 pm
Quote from: clarion on 04 October, 2011, 09:27:05 am
Tim, did you get a reg?
No, I should have done, but I was  just frustrated at him and I didn't think of it until too far away.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 October, 2011, 08:21:38 pm
I'm like that.  Or I forget it quite quickly. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ianrauk on 05 October, 2011, 10:00:23 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 03 October, 2011, 04:08:12 pm




I've had to yell behind on a couple of occasions when people get too close. Normally I say, 'overtake me or back off'.

I was on my way to work this morning, on my new bike (Specialized Vita Sport) and the speed along the embankment was heavenly. Suddenly I notice the shadow of a front wheel and I could feel they were trying to pass me so I upped my pace. The shadow disappeared. Just as I was getting the red light at the junction I turned round and said 'that was fun' to a lovely lady that normally passes me at speed when I have been huffing and puffing away on my heavy Decathlon bike.

I bloody well love my new bike  :D

oooooh nice....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 October, 2011, 10:21:31 am
Another very good commute today - through the backroads from Brixton.  It's reasonably quick once you know the way, though slower than the A3 obv.  We started riding in mizzle, with our lights showing how very slowly the rain was falling.  But it cleared to a bright, if slightly colder than previously, autumn morning.

Yesterday, a chap was looking at my rather personalised bike while we were stopped at lights, and asked a question.  I'm used to people asking me about the S3X or the dynohub or the black reflective or even the stickers.  But he asked about my position.  I have fairly ordinary bars on my Ridgeback.  OK, slightly wider than I would prefer, and slightly higher than on my Orbit, but nothing unusual, and I ride on the hoods pretty much all the time.  Anyway, he was curious about whether the bars were comfortable, and I assured him that yes, they were.  But then we were off.  An unusual conversation.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 05 October, 2011, 10:41:01 am
I'd have probably asked about your mental state. But that's just me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 05 October, 2011, 10:42:29 am
Windy, again.  I was determined to take the longer, quieter route in, but by the time I hit Canning Town I decided to skip my Isle of Dogs loop - it was just taking too much effort this morning.  OTOH, the ride home should be nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 05 October, 2011, 10:45:07 am
Back on the bike again.  I didn't ride to work yesterday as the cold has gone to my chest.  Today I am still coughing a bit but feel much better

Set off to work with the aim of taking it easy.  I nearly did too but a kid on a MTB with green tyres tried to over take me near Trull.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: eeymsmo on 05 October, 2011, 10:51:06 am
Slow commute this morning as I spent 5 minutes sat at a set of temporary traffic lights which appear be borked  :facepalm:

I was amazed at the lack of patience by the car drivers though, as I lasted longer than most of them  :smug: as I know there's a couple of side roads in the roadworks so wasn't sure if this wasn't just a very long change cycle.

Could only find one arm warmer when getting ready so had to wear the winter jersey, was a bit moist by the time I got to my desk
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 October, 2011, 11:03:17 am
I forgot an incident on last night's commute.  I ride past Mitcham Eastfields station, alongside the platform.  Sometimes a train sets off as I go past and I race it till it gets up too much speed to keep up.  Last night, after I'd pushed hard to keep ahead, the driver leaned back to look out of the window, waved and gave a thumbs up.  :D :D :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 05 October, 2011, 11:22:51 am
Now if a class 455 EMU pulling several kA at 750V isn't putting out enough radio interference to mess up your wireless speedo, nothing is.
Well done on racing the train.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 October, 2011, 11:23:42 am
They always win. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 05 October, 2011, 11:34:58 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 05 October, 2011, 10:45:07 am
Back on the bike again.  I didn't ride to work yesterday as the cold has gone to my chest.  Today I am still coughing a bit but feel much better

Set off to work with the aim of taking it easy.  I nearly did too but a kid on a MTB with green tyres tried to over take me near Trull.
:-)

Whenever I set off with the aim of taking it easy, something/one happens/passes me and I end up blasting along.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 05 October, 2011, 01:35:38 pm
On the ride home last afternoon, I had one of those life flashing before your eyes moments.

I rode up to a T junction and was positioned just left of the broken white centre line, at point. I looked right and saw a car a little way off but too close for me to go. I looked left and saw a car a little bit closer than the one to my right, indicating to turn right. I had the feeling the driver was trying to beat the car coming the other way and looked back again to see if he was going to make it.

I was right about the car to my left. I heard the sound of wheels locking up and saw the front of the car approaching my front wheel, cutting off the junction in his efforts to save a second or two. My heart was in my mouth as I waited for the inevitable collision and pain.

Somehow the driver managed to avoid me and execute his turn- having slowed to a crawl and brought the car coming the other way to a standstill almost.

The driver who nearly had me gave an embarrassed wave and continued on his way whilst I tried to get my heart out of the way so I could draw breath and continue my journey.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 05 October, 2011, 01:43:57 pm
Like Clarion, I often have a brief race against a Tram on Waddon New Road (the Trams have just turned off onto a dedicated Tram section of track).  It's a bit more of a competition there, since they're going up the incline to the bridge over the railway line.  They still always win though. ;D

Last night I hit the roadworks around Sloane Square again.  I'm not entirely sure what they're doing, although it looks partially like it's resurfacing, so with a bit of luck it'll be a nice shiny clean road for a short while, until someone digs it up in a month or two.  At least I can get off and walk around it all to get where I want to be, unlike motorised vehicles, who must have an interesting diversion to deal with!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 05 October, 2011, 01:54:23 pm
I quite liked this bit of footage from Harry on ROAM:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bXZqVjvsIJQ

Not exactly a commute, but it does involve a train here.  (ROAM was a 5,200km tour across the US in 4 weeks in velomobiles.  Bit harder to sustain 200km average days without one, I suspect).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 05 October, 2011, 02:25:21 pm
Quote from: clarion on 05 October, 2011, 10:21:31 am
Yesterday, a chap was looking at my rather personalised bike while we were stopped at lights, and asked a question.  I'm used to people asking me about the S3X or the dynohub or the black reflective or even the stickers.  But he asked about my position.

I had something similar the other day: I was on the SMGT, stopped at a pedestrian crossing, and one of the pedestrians looked at my bike contemplatively then asked me what my front light was (an IQ Cyo).  I hadn't actually realised it was on at that point, as it was in sensor mode and the sky was subjectively still quite bright, so it was twice as boggleworthy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: darkpoint on 05 October, 2011, 03:12:03 pm
3 stops to offer assistance on the A3 this morning,  all within 200yds.

The first had a broken security quick release thingy, so not much i could do,  he had a plan and was heading to the nearby bike shop for assistance.
The second was a lass with a small hole in her tyre that had given her a puncture, I had a very old park tyre boot ion my bag so was able to wedge that into place,  it was no longer sticky but should have done the trick.   i will have to read up on how to make a new one from an old tyre this evening.
The third was a chap who was stopping as his phone had rung,  so didn't need help at all.. 

So all in all a busy morning.   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 October, 2011, 03:13:40 pm
Good man. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim on 05 October, 2011, 03:29:28 pm
Today the bike mostly appeared to weigh the best part of three metric fucktonnes. And my legs were devoid of oomph. To aid recovery I shall experiment with the addition of carb loading to my evening schedule (combined with mild painkillers, all served in a tasty and lightly effervescent form).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 05 October, 2011, 03:36:44 pm
Quote from: Tim on 05 October, 2011, 03:29:28 pm
Today the bike mostly appeared to weigh the best part of three metric fucktonnes. And my legs were devoid of oomph. To aid recovery I shall experiment with the addition of carb loading to my evening schedule (combined with mild painkillers, all served in a tasty and lightly effervescent form).

Something that sounds that useful should be available on the NHS!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 05 October, 2011, 05:43:12 pm
Quote from: TimO on 05 October, 2011, 01:43:57 pm
Like Clarion, I often have a brief race against a Tram on Waddon New Road (the Trams have just turned off onto a dedicated Tram section of track).  It's a bit more of a competition there, since they're going up the incline to the bridge over the railway line.  They still always win though. ;D
I had a race with a Porsche yesterday. I won. For the first ten metres or so.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 05 October, 2011, 05:51:11 pm
Just looked out of the window and it's raining  :'(

All wet weather gear is at home  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 October, 2011, 07:05:07 pm
No train to race today :(

But as I rode past the empty station, there was an announcement which made me do a double take:

'The train now standing at Platform two...' ;D

Fast enough ride, despite a bitter headwind.  As I was stopped at the lights at E&C, I watched heaps of leaves and litter bowling directly towards me at high speed.  Oh yes, I thought, that's where I'm headed - where all that air is coming from :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 05 October, 2011, 07:48:19 pm
It was one of those "It'll be OK once I'm wet though" evenings.
It was OK once I was wet through.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 05 October, 2011, 09:09:08 pm
Not much of a tail wind this evening, but plenty of gusting cross-wind.  >:(


[rant mode=ON]

*Please chose a random selection from the standard London commuter rants and insert here.*

[rant mode=OFF]
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: trio25 on 05 October, 2011, 09:11:29 pm
Lovely commute this morning, 33miles in total and I stopped to find a couple of geocaches on the way. Most of it was quiet lanes as well. Back to riding into Manchester tomorrow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 05 October, 2011, 09:14:54 pm
This is the time of year that commutes in the country become really special.

Since my commute is quite long ( I only do it 1 or 2 time a week ) I need to leave early, like 06:00.   It takes me through farmland, then forrests, then mountain moorland.   ( The Cairn O'Mount, for those that know it ).

It's at this time of year that my commute co-incides with dawn.   I set of in pitch dark, and the sun peeps up as I ride.

Cyling in deep dark countryside, just before dawn, is something everyone should do.

The smells are deeply accentuated. ( Good and bad.. ).   All sorts of wildlife.   Some known, some un-known.   There are Gruffalos in the woods, I've seen their eyes.  And snakes on the road.  And my buddy saw 2 green LEDs oscillating up and down rapidly in front of him.  T'was a squeasel running towards him!

I've been watching a young pair of deer grow up over the summer.   I first saw them when they must have been just a few weeks old.   Now they are getting bigger.   I see them most times I ride past, usually within half a mile of the same spot.

--
F
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: welshwheels on 05 October, 2011, 09:21:57 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 05 October, 2011, 09:09:08 pm
Not much of a tail wind this evening, but plenty of gusting cross-wind.  >:(


[rant mode=ON]

**Cyling in deep dark countryside, just before dawn, is something everyone should do.

[rant mode=OFF]
   ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 05 October, 2011, 11:27:21 pm
Shortly after I set off homewards from work this evening, I noticed my front tyre was feeling a bit spongy. I'd only pumped it up on Monday so it must be a slow puncture. Wasn't in a rush so thought I might as well stop to replace the tube. And that was when I discovered that the spare tube I've been carrying around in my saddle bag for the past few months, was actually a for a Brompton, not a 700C wheel.  :facepalm:

Not sure I could have forced it to fit even if it didn't have a schraeder valve.

Anyway, refitted the original tube. Couldn't locate the puncture so just pumped it up good and hard and hoped it would be enough to see me home. Seems to be OK.

Got well battered by the wind tonight. At times, it seemed to be coming at me from all directions at once. Autumn has returned with a vengeance. Looks like it might be rain as well tomorrow. If we get snow by the end of the week, that will be a weather full house.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 06 October, 2011, 08:13:14 am
Well normal air delivery for the time of year has resumed......free ride in this morning although the return leg promises to be......interesting
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 06 October, 2011, 09:22:11 am
Alfine played up on the way to work

It started when I accelerated away from some lights.  As I cornered the pedaling action "felt odd" it wasn't positive but still worked a bit.

I couldn't mix it with heavy traffic with a barely operational drive train so I stopped to take a look.  The chain had slipped off the spocket and into the gap between the back of the spocket and the wheel.  There is a plastic bit here and it was somehow gripping on this?  The chain was jammed and tight.  I couldn't think why so I undid the track nuts to move the back wheel.  Then I realised that the front was using half the chain guard and half the chainring.  That was how it had enough tension to jam or produce any drive at all.

I put it all back together again and carried on but after 100 metres it became clear that there was some kind of additional problem with the tension on the gear changer.  Maybe the chain nonsense has moved or damaged something.  I pushed the last 100 metres to work and I'll have to take another look at it later today so I can get home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JJ on 06 October, 2011, 10:24:30 am
This morning in Cambridge, while I waited for a gap to go by on the right, multiple cyclists heading up the left hand side of a skip lorry as he tried (signalling) to turn left into the site.  Of course they were safe because they were on a cycle lane.  Oh yes.   :facepalm:

Yesterday, on foot, running with the 3 wheel buggy down a country lane.  Cyclist coming the other way.  I squeeze into the RH verge, but he heads straight at us.  He swerves at the last second, and then doubles back to tell me I should have more respect, as he'd ridden 5 miles.   ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 06 October, 2011, 10:29:31 am
Arses…


… and twat.

In that order JJ-ers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 06 October, 2011, 10:38:27 am
That were windy. 20mph headwind on the nose with 30mph sustained gusts. the sort  of ride where you run out of gears on the flat.

Got to work and found that somehow I had my wife's purse in my bag.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 06 October, 2011, 10:39:57 am
Well done…

… and gay.

In that order MaLaddy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 October, 2011, 10:45:36 am
Dear Mr Themetoffice

Last night, you promised me that the Mighty Wind I had just ploughed my way into was to turn itself into a tailwind ready for this morning.  You never said anything about it turning into a wall of crosswind.

I am therefore returning today's weather (see enclosed) and expect a full refund.

Yours disgruntledly

Clarion
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: welshwheels on 06 October, 2011, 11:54:35 am
I mr Stuart Davies
Have finally realised that after 30years on this planet and 10 years of commuting by bike that if i decied to cycle in the raim i am going to get wet :facepalm: :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 06 October, 2011, 12:16:46 pm
Quote from: vorsprung on 06 October, 2011, 09:22:11 am
Alfine played up on the way to work

It started when I accelerated away from some lights.  As I cornered the pedaling action "felt odd" it wasn't positive but still worked a bit.

I couldn't mix it with heavy traffic with a barely operational drive train so I stopped to take a look.  The chain had slipped off the spocket and into the gap between the back of the spocket and the wheel.  There is a plastic bit here and it was somehow gripping on this?  The chain was jammed and tight.  I couldn't think why so I undid the track nuts to move the back wheel.  Then I realised that the front was using half the chain guard and half the chainring.  That was how it had enough tension to jam or produce any drive at all.

I put it all back together again and carried on but after 100 metres it became clear that there was some kind of additional problem with the tension on the gear changer.  Maybe the chain nonsense has moved or damaged something.  I pushed the last 100 metres to work and I'll have to take another look at it later today so I can get home.

The Alfine seems to have some unique issues, when my BB went the changing went to all hell, too. I'm also considering changing to oil lubrication, given the amount of drag on in the gears, and I'm also going to change the Versa changer outer to something of better quality. Interested to hear what it is with yours.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 06 October, 2011, 12:30:20 pm
Enjoying a few seconds of riding on Victoria Park's new tarmac-ed sections.... so smooth it feels like levitation... even better when going down hill... with a strong tailwind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 06 October, 2011, 12:31:52 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 06 October, 2011, 10:38:27 am
That were windy. 20mph headwind on the nose with 30mph sustained gusts. the sort  of ride where you run out of gears on the flat.
I got the bus in for this precise reason ...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 06 October, 2011, 12:47:30 pm
Quote from: Ham on 06 October, 2011, 12:16:46 pm
Quote from: vorsprung on 06 October, 2011, 09:22:11 am
Alfine played up on the way to work

It started when I accelerated away from some lights.  As I cornered the pedaling action "felt odd" it wasn't positive but still worked a bit.

I couldn't mix it with heavy traffic with a barely operational drive train so I stopped to take a look.  The chain had slipped off the spocket and into the gap between the back of the spocket and the wheel.  There is a plastic bit here and it was somehow gripping on this?  The chain was jammed and tight.  I couldn't think why so I undid the track nuts to move the back wheel.  Then I realised that the front was using half the chain guard and half the chainring.  That was how it had enough tension to jam or produce any drive at all.

I put it all back together again and carried on but after 100 metres it became clear that there was some kind of additional problem with the tension on the gear changer.  Maybe the chain nonsense has moved or damaged something.  I pushed the last 100 metres to work and I'll have to take another look at it later today so I can get home.

The Alfine seems to have some unique issues, when my BB went the changing went to all hell, too. I'm also considering changing to oil lubrication, given the amount of drag on in the gears, and I'm also going to change the Versa changer outer to something of better quality. Interested to hear what it is with yours.

My experience is that if the yellow lines line up, then all is fine (as long as the cable moves freely). If they don't then it will skip. Except when it is -15C, in which case the grease is so thick, all bets are off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 06 October, 2011, 01:13:17 pm
Quote from: clarion on 06 October, 2011, 10:45:36 am
Last night, you promised me that the Mighty Wind I had just ploughed my way into was to turn itself into a tailwind ready for this morning.  You never said anything about it turning into a wall of crosswind.

It was a cross wind for me last night on the way home, and pretty much the same into work this morning, which is not fair.

One of my colleagues however, comes from East London, so had to cycle directly into it this morning.  The plus side for him should be an accelerated journey home!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 06 October, 2011, 01:21:25 pm
Quote from: TimO on 06 October, 2011, 01:13:17 pm
Quote from: clarion on 06 October, 2011, 10:45:36 am
Last night, you promised me that the Mighty Wind I had just ploughed my way into was to turn itself into a tailwind ready for this morning.  You never said anything about it turning into a wall of crosswind.

It was a cross wind for me last night on the way home, and pretty much the same into work this morning, which is not fair.

One of my colleagues however, comes from East London, so had to cycle directly into it this morning.  The plus side for him should be an accelerated journey home!

Speaking from bitter experience, it rarely works out that way.  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 06 October, 2011, 01:22:00 pm
Got bumped by a car at Elephant & Castle roundabout this morning. I'd filtered up between the lines of queuing traffic and was ahead of him, though not directly in front. He'd started to pull out as soon as there was a gap, presumably still with eyes right rather than in front. To be fair, it was six of one, half a dozen of the other - arguably, I shouldn't have been there - but he must have been turning pretty sharply left to have actually hit me.

But meh, it was nothing. No damage to me or the bike. So I just carried on. Thing is, he was in the lane to go straight ahead but he wanted to turn left, so then I and another cyclist were then in his way. So he started hooting.

I just waved and smiled at him as he swerved round us. What else can you do?

Ho hum.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 06 October, 2011, 02:09:02 pm
Strong wind here too. So strong it forced me to stop - Midland Road is being resurfaced and it blew so much grit in my eyes I couldn't see where I was going.  :( There was no other traffic around so it was safe to stop in the middle of the road, luckily. Road worker on the pavement had his arm in front of his face to protect his eyes. Yuck.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 06 October, 2011, 02:16:05 pm
Quote from: Ham on 06 October, 2011, 12:16:46 pm
The Alfine seems to have some unique issues, when my BB went the changing went to all hell, too. I'm also considering changing to oil lubrication, given the amount of drag on in the gears, and I'm also going to change the Versa changer outer to something of better quality. Interested to hear what it is with yours.

Dunno what is up with it.  The lock ring seems to be jammed.  Hopefully I can limp it on to the weekend when I can take it all to bits and clean it.  There might be some damage to one of the springy seals on the drive side of the sprockets but without taking it to bits it's hard to say.

All I managed to do to it at lunchtime is drench it in oil and move the lock ring a little bit.  It at least now seems to shift gears somewhat.  I am hoping I can get it in gear number 6.  I can ride home as if on a single speed quite fine in number 6.  Not sure what the experience has done to the chain either, it seems to have grown about an inch, so much so that I can't get the rear brakes in the correct position.  Might go to the LBS and get a new chain on the way home

On the subject of your problems...
It's not difficult to take the hub apart and give it an "oil bath"..http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=30701.msg823041#msg823041
I don't use a Versa shifter, I have a pod shifter modified to fit on drop bars
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 06 October, 2011, 02:17:07 pm
Quote from: tonycollinet on 06 October, 2011, 12:47:30 pm
My experience is that if the yellow lines line up, then all is fine (as long as the cable moves freely). If they don't then it will skip. Except when it is -15C, in which case the grease is so thick, all bets are off.
This has been my previous experience too.  But todays chain suck might have done some damage
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 October, 2011, 04:18:18 pm
Citoyen, I'm sorry to hear you got hit, and I am very glad you weren't too badly hurt.  I have to say that I avoid filtering on the approaches to E&C precisely because you can't guarantee where people are looking.  I get in a lane in primary and stick there.  I need to use eye contact to ensure that I don't get idiots pulling out in front of me from the other entrance roads, and that doesn't always work, but it is a crap junction really, used by crap drivers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 06 October, 2011, 05:34:09 pm
Quote from: clarion on 06 October, 2011, 04:18:18 pm
Citoyen, I'm sorry to hear you got hit, and I am very glad you weren't too badly hurt.

Thanks - wasn't even slightly hurt, thankfully. Not me or the bike!

Quote
I have to say that I avoid filtering on the approaches to E&C precisely because you can't guarantee where people are looking.

I was a bit caught out this morning because the phasing of the lights means it's very rare that I have to stop at that point. Usually, I can get away from the previous set of lights, stay ahead of the cars and just sail through and round - always in primary, of course. I'll have to be more circumspect next time I encounter a queue.

Traffic also seemed to be unusually heavy along several other parts of my route this morning. No idea why.

Quote
it is a crap junction really, used by crap drivers.

True dat.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 06 October, 2011, 07:05:23 pm
Well that was the worst weather I've ever cycled in. Had a mini gale blow past, combined with heavy rain (lasted about 5 minutes) so strong, I had to get off and push. Legs scratched by blown debris. I was a little worried about all the trees I was walking past.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: welshwheels on 06 October, 2011, 07:50:32 pm
christ that was windy !! bordering on dangerous :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 October, 2011, 08:02:28 pm
There was Wind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 06 October, 2011, 08:02:37 pm
Dear oh dear...

Five days after a 200km fixed gear grimpeur
48 hours after blood donation
40-65kph block headwind across the Norfolk/Suffolk flatlands

Tonight's commute was never going to be a bundle of laughs, was it?

Slowest yet - 1:21 for 27km  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 06 October, 2011, 10:52:25 pm
I went from work to the rowing club for this evening's gentle run (with a modicum of walking to let the littlies catch up) to the University, where we ran round and round and round the tennis courts in the kind of weather that gets one thumbing through the B&Q catalogue for Gopher Wood and ark blueprints.

So far so good, because I had warm and dry clothes (and warm and wet beer) waiting for me at the club after running back.  Showered, changed, re-hydrated, then set off back home.  "Oh look, some fireworks" I thought, but no, it was nature's own light show.  One lightning strike had less than a second between flash and bang.

Then the hail started.  The magic hat proved its worth at last.  I knew it was heavy, as the "ting ting" noise of the hailstones (5mm dia at least) hitting my bell was continuous.  With only 3 mins to home, it wasn't worth stopping to find a bus shelter, so I carried on regardless.  My driveway looked like deep winter, with not just a dusting but a complete cover of hail.

I hope that my 20-mile Camel Trail commutes on Saturday evening, Sunday morning, Sunday evening and Monday morning are a bit more clement.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 06 October, 2011, 11:51:36 pm
Quote from: rower40 on 06 October, 2011, 10:52:25 pm
.  I knew it was heavy, as the "ting ting" noise of the hailstones (5mm dia at least) hitting my bell was continuous. 

Maybe so - but it would have been much more comfortable with your flies done up.  ;D

(Where's the badoom-tish smiley when you need one?)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 07 October, 2011, 08:24:32 am
Last night was really not a lot of fun, 50 mins for 12 miles and truly knackered. Compliments to P.P O'Conners driver who used his tipper truck as a rolling road block to enable me get across the two lanes of nutters on the A57 and the resulting overtake after the right turn was excellent  :thumbsup:

Pretty pleasant this morning all things considered, seemed to find a bit of a lull in the wind
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 07 October, 2011, 09:49:33 am
there was no wind on my commute acroos the landing,there may hve been flatulance in the bathroom.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 07 October, 2011, 10:05:18 am
Properly autumnal this morning.

Got the merino jersey out and very glad I did too.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 October, 2011, 10:21:11 am
NEWSFLASH:  Several fragile male egos were crushed on the A3 this morning as they were passed by a fat old asthmatic with a full camping load ;D  No other injuries are reported.

Nice ride this morning, accompanied by Butterfly as far as Stockwell.  There was one van driver (BT Openreach) who pulled aside to let us pass.  As we were unable to get much beyond, we exchanged a few words.  He explained he'd stayed out from the kerb as he thought we'd come up that side.  I said I didn't think it would have been fair on him if we had, and he was very happy with that.

Next there was a chap on a Croix de Fer, asking if we were off on holiday.  I never know how to answer that question, as every weekend is a holiday when you're camping.  He said he'd ridden down to Brighton recently, but not on 'this heavy old thing' as he described the lovely shiny bike he was riding :-\

I tried to be careful with the filtering, as I had two big panniers on, but I did embarrass myself as we squeezed past a row of cars held up by a bin lorry.  The gap to the parked cars was slightly smaller than I needed - normally it would have been no problem, but I had forgotten about the load :-[ .  So I slid along the side of the cars (fortunately the panniers are quite soft), and compounded it by having to steady myself with a hand on the front wing of the occupied car.

Fortunately, the driver made no protest, and didn't catch us up anyway.

Nice ride from there, with just the usual hazards presented by the numpty drivers who are still asleep.

I'm looking forward to tonight.  Perhaps not the riding to the station bit, but getting away from London for a bit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim on 07 October, 2011, 10:36:17 am
Full house! 5/5 for the first time in <mumblemumblemumble>.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 October, 2011, 10:38:55 am
:thumbsup: 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: darkpoint on 07 October, 2011, 11:07:36 am
Feeling a little bad about an incident last night..

I stopped to chat to a lass who was walking her bike, she had about a mile to go, and her rear tyre was soft... So i pumped it up for her,  so that she could get home.

However I didn't confirm that she had a puncture repair kit at home, or that she was happy to change the tube.   It was holding pressure once I had inflated it,  so it wasn't completely knackered,  but I was still suspicious.

In retrospect I think that was remiss of me, I should have swapped out her tube with one of my spares and or made sure that she had the required tools to make the change once home.
That is making me feel like a bad person, and I would just like to apologise to the cycling community and the world at large and promise that i will try and not be as remiss in the future.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 October, 2011, 11:12:57 am
You stopped & helped.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 07 October, 2011, 11:20:13 am
Quote from: Tim on 07 October, 2011, 10:36:17 am
Full house! 5/5 for the first time in <mumblemumblemumble>.

SNAP !!   My first one since June 24th and only my third this year. Very slack.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 07 October, 2011, 11:20:24 am
You can take the knight in shining armour thing too far, you know!  ;D

I helped a damsel in distress last night too. Well, I say distress but…

Grinding along Walworth Rd into a bastard headwind, I noticed I had someone tailing me. I glanced over my shoulder and it was a rather attractive young lady in the shortest cycling shorts you ever did see. I couldn't help thinking I'd rather be following her but that wouldn't have been very chivalrous.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: darkpoint on 07 October, 2011, 11:30:51 am
Quote from: clarion on 07 October, 2011, 11:12:57 am
You stopped & helped.

Yes I did stop and help,  and through my actions I saved her a 20 minute walk.   Which was helpful.  However, I could have very easily been quite a lot more helpful, and ensured that she wasn't going to get stuck again with the same problem.
It is more that i didn't think, which is troubling me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 October, 2011, 11:35:03 am
Can't be perfect.  But so long as there are people willing to stop & help, that's a good thing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 07 October, 2011, 11:41:05 am
I can't work out if you're being serious or not. Don't let it trouble you. You saved her a walk. That in itself is quite noble enough.

Let her take some responsibility for herself. The fact that she's out on a bike suggests that she's a reasonably fit and able person and it's actually a bit patronising to suggest that she might be so reliant on your help (unless you actually are joking).

And so what if she doesn't have a spare tube at home? Is it not better in the long term that she gets a lesson in self-sufficiency? (I'm reminded of those Oxfam "Give a man a fish…" adverts.)

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 07 October, 2011, 11:57:08 am
I had a go at fixing the Alfine at work yesterday lunchtime and it seemed ok enough--gear changing up and down worked in a brief test

But when it was going home time the gears were still fubar.  It was jammed in a non gear, half engaged.  Pedaling sometimes worked, sometimes not.  Clearly for cycling home 15 miles against a brisk headwind in heavy traffic not suitable.

So I got the train.  I'm on the Orbea today instead
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: darkpoint on 07 October, 2011, 01:19:08 pm
Think I am just being overly reflective / critical.    i will shut up now..
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 07 October, 2011, 01:33:57 pm
Quote from: darkpoint on 07 October, 2011, 11:30:51 am
...and ensured that she wasn't going to get stuck again with the same problem.
Quite right!  You should have checked her route and exact road position for the entire journey and got out there with your stiff brush to clear all tyre-penetrating debris.  Thereafter you should have returned home, fitted a road sweeping kit(TM) to your bike and appeared outside her house the following morning to ride in front of her to work.  Same again from work to home in the evening.  And the next day.  And forever.

I understand women like this sort of attention.  Who knows where it could lead*!

In other news, I took the Wandsworth - Battersea Park - Chelsea Bridge - HoP - Tottenham Court Road route today (I normally do CS7).  Nice.  Different.  But lacking in the cyclist density stakes.  I was along embankment at about 8.30.  Does it get busier later, or did I miss all the fun?  In a strange way I missed the arse-clenching  sprint-roadies of Clapham North.

*a cell

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Crock of Gold on 07 October, 2011, 02:07:44 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 03 October, 2011, 04:08:12 pm
I've had to yell behind on a couple of occasions when people get too close. Normally I say, 'f*****g overtake me or f**k the back off'.


FTFY
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 07 October, 2011, 02:56:16 pm
Quote from: darkpoint on 07 October, 2011, 01:19:08 pm
Think I am just being overly reflective / critical.    i will shut up now..

Don't be too hard on yourself. Your desire to help others is highly commendable, especially since it appears to be entirely altruistic. You just need to know when to let it go.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 07 October, 2011, 04:49:58 pm
Tail wind and commuter racing on the way in this morning...8)
...the wind hasn't dropped since, mind :hand:

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 10 October, 2011, 08:43:20 am
Some people I can think of might have had That Wind behind them this morning. I didn't.

Only bright spot was it seemed to drop a bit after 7.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 10 October, 2011, 09:10:01 am
17 miles each way yesterday.  Huge rain-laden tailwind (but predominantly uphill) on the way in, headwind but downhill on the way back.
A ride of three halves; first 5 miles up-n-down on road, then 6 miles on the windswept flat bit of the Camel Trail (Padstow to Wadebridge), then the inland bit of the trail (Wadebridge to Bodmin) which climbs up the valley.
Riding through Cornwall at 6am on a wintery Sunday morning meant that I encountered very few other vehicles.  There was a motorbike on the trail thobut.
Orange Bling is now wearing an unattractive mud-grit-and-horsepoo colour scheme.  And the speedo has packed in.
I've got one more repeat of this to do this morning (the uphill-direction - and fully laden with all my luggage), then train back home to Derby.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 10 October, 2011, 09:30:52 am
That was lovely autumn weather. 20mph steady headwind with drizzle. At least it isn't cold.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 October, 2011, 09:36:41 am
Different commute this morning.  Butterfly started her new job today, so I used the TfL maps to find a cycle route through.  What I hadn't counted on was that I would need to pass through all the traffic for the cluster of schools in Dulwich. :-\

Might tweak it a bit for tomorrow to avoid ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bloomers100 on 10 October, 2011, 10:29:43 am
Windy in Essex this morning 2km/h slower today was warm here too, I've found my hrm strap after two weeks so I didn't try and fight the wind too much and watched the numbers. Looking forward to the ride home though, weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 10 October, 2011, 12:12:24 pm
Quote from: rower40 on 10 October, 2011, 09:10:01 am
17 miles each way yesterday.  Huge rain-laden tailwind (but predominantly uphill) on the way in, headwind but downhill on the way back.
A ride of three halves; first 5 miles up-n-down on road, then 6 miles on the windswept flat bit of the Camel Trail (Padstow to Wadebridge), then the inland bit of the trail (Wadebridge to Bodmin) which climbs up the valley.
Riding through Cornwall at 6am on a wintery Sunday morning meant that I encountered very few other vehicles.  There was a motorbike on the trail thobut.
Orange Bling is now wearing an unattractive mud-grit-and-horsepoo colour scheme.  And the speedo has packed in.
I've got one more repeat of this to do this morning (the uphill-direction - and fully laden with all my luggage), then train back home to Derby.

A bit late now but your missing the best bit of that trail from Bodmin to Hellandbridge through Dunmere Woods, beatiful there and it's where Miss S first rode without stabilisers.

Todays commute took a lot of motivation as I lay listening to the wind howl through the trees, not too bad really other than one stupidly close pass by a tanker which then went on to run the red lights and very nearly wipe out a car coming out of warburton bridge road  ::-) 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 10 October, 2011, 04:25:11 pm
Well, if there's any justice the ride home should be pretty quick and easy after this morning's fun and games with the wind.

Find out in about 10 minutes...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 10 October, 2011, 04:26:57 pm
Wind this morning; 20mph headwind gusting to 35mph.

Wind this evening: 15mph, no gusts.

lol
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 10 October, 2011, 05:10:09 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 10 October, 2011, 04:26:57 pm
Wind this morning; 20mph headwind gusting to 35mph.

Wind this evening: 15mph, no gusts.

lol
You forgot quantum drizzle, with its amazing ability to tunnel through waterproof fabrics to soak the skin below.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 10 October, 2011, 05:20:46 pm
Riding along minding my own business. Start hearing an odd rattling noise. Sounds like it's coming from my bike but can't see anything wrong with the drivetrain. Then I realise part of my front mudguard is hanging off by the one remaining stay. It seems to have snapped about six inches behind the fork crown.

Bugger.  :(

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 10 October, 2011, 05:23:26 pm
I have defeated the quantum drizzle by extreme cunning. No waterproof fabrics.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: trio25 on 10 October, 2011, 09:01:51 pm
Headwind the whole way today, shame it was my longest commute of the week, 34miles. I only just got there in time....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 October, 2011, 10:04:25 pm
Headwind on the way home, but I just stuck with it and blasted home.  Poor maximum but decent average, just from plugging away.

Then I changed bikes quickly, and rode Adrian's S3X back to him.  That was fun, but getting home by public transport took three times as long, and involved going through the middle of Croydon, which is full of drunks and smells of stale urine. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 10 October, 2011, 10:51:36 pm
commuted with winter tyres at 2.5 bar to bed in the spikes as recomended by schwalbe.... that was hard work in the morning against the wind.
Decided to attempt a little shopping session in Westfied stratford on the way back, and my attempt to enter the mall compound via the north entrance (hackney marshes / A12) failed miserably.... only cars are allowed through. A pity really because that entrance is conveniently located off the Lee Valley.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 10 October, 2011, 10:53:15 pm
Quote from: Si_Co on 10 October, 2011, 12:12:24 pm
A bit late now but your missing the best bit of that trail from Bodmin to Hellandbridge through Dunmere Woods, beatiful there and it's where Miss S first rode without stabilisers.
Yebbut the purpose of a commute is to get from where one is living to where one is working. ;)  I needed to get to Bodmin General (station) to pull levers in the signalbox.

When I last did the top bit of the Camel Trail, there were dozens of gates across the trackbed, which made things a bit of a pain for those of us on 'bents and towing (hired) trailers.  Have they been reduced in number?

I did notice that the top section no longer starts from its railway junction west of the A389, and going across the road on a level crossing; one has to go under the A389 as though going towards Bodmin North, then turn off left on a new path to reach the WenfordBridge part of the trail.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 11 October, 2011, 08:09:17 am
Quote from: rower40 on 10 October, 2011, 10:53:15 pm
When I last did the top bit of the Camel Trail, there were dozens of gates across the trackbed, which made things a bit of a pain for those of us on 'bents and towing (hired) trailers.  Have they been reduced in number?

I only recall two gates across the top part of the trail, but it is a couple of years since I was down there, the safety elfs may well down there saving us from ourselves  ::-). I hate these gates, the section of the trans penine trail near me is so tight the MTB is royal PITA and the road bike will only just squeeze through a couple. They were obviously installed to the "that looks about wide enough for a bike"  specification

Todays commute is detailed in the rant thread, which spoiled a very nice ride upto that point really
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 11 October, 2011, 08:27:40 am
Crikey. I'm off to the Rant Thread, pronto!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 October, 2011, 09:28:40 am
Much better commute in today.  Less gusty, for a start. 

I rode to Butterfly's work, then set off, avoiding the schools this time, which was much better.  The hill seemed much gentler than I expected, and the ride through the backstreets to work was quite short.

Looking forward to the ride home. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 11 October, 2011, 11:20:45 am
That was some headwind on the Embankment today.

In other news, I have had a follow-up to my Addison Lee complaint:

Quote
Hi her_welshness

Apologies for delay in coming back to you, please let me know when you would like to come in and see the driver training school here at Addison Lee. We’d like to show you around and discuss cycling in London in general…

Thanks

Marketing and PR Manager

 :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 October, 2011, 11:55:40 am
At the end of my commute, I encountered a lorry parked dangerously outside my work.  I used my phone to photograph it, and it uploaded via my photobucket app.  Just emailed the company with evidence of the self-proclaimed 'Fat Boy's' misdeeds.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 11 October, 2011, 01:53:15 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 11 October, 2011, 11:20:45 am
That was some headwind on the Embankment today.

In other news, I have had a follow-up to my Addison Lee complaint:

Quote
Hi her_welshness

Apologies for delay in coming back to you, please let me know when you would like to come in and see the driver training school here at Addison Lee. We’d like to show you around and discuss cycling in London in general…

Thanks

Marketing and PR Manager

 :o

Wow! Can we all come?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 11 October, 2011, 02:25:45 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 11 October, 2011, 01:53:15 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 11 October, 2011, 11:20:45 am
That was some headwind on the Embankment today.

In other news, I have had a follow-up to my Addison Lee complaint:

Quote
Hi her_welshness

Apologies for delay in coming back to you, please let me know when you would like to come in and see the driver training school here at Addison Lee. We’d like to show you around and discuss cycling in London in general…

Thanks

Marketing and PR Manager

 :o

Wow! Can we all come?

Of course  :D I will let you know when I am visiting them - it will probably be a Wednesday as that is my normal day off. I will also write up about it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 11 October, 2011, 02:42:33 pm
My commute this morning was by car (Forgive me yacf'ers, for I have sinned- It has been 4 days since my last cycle commute). As I drove along Maidenhead Road from Cookham I spied a cyclist riding in the oppsoite direction. In the distance I though "Odd shaped handlebars" but s I got closer I twigged what the oddness was. What I thought was his handlebars was in fact his just obtained copy of the daily paper which was folded paper boy stylee, held in both hands atop his bars and he was reading it as he rode ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 11 October, 2011, 02:45:13 pm
Lovely warm west wind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 11 October, 2011, 02:48:11 pm
Absolutely. Bloody. Soaking. Wet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 11 October, 2011, 06:35:41 pm
I was absolutely flung in this morning by a massive tail wind.
Wind nothing like as strong this evening. 

Which was nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 October, 2011, 09:21:34 pm
Nice ride home this evening.

Well, I say 'nice', but I did ride uphill with a load of shopping into a headwind, and have to get past lines of drivers sat doing nothing in their cars.

But I was with Butterfly, which makes everything better. :)

Oh - and I popped in to Herne Hill to look at the new surface.  Coo!  There were some n00bs just starting a training session, and I didn't envy them fighting the wind up the back straight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 11 October, 2011, 09:32:14 pm
Quote from: clarion on 11 October, 2011, 09:21:34 pm

Oh - and I popped in to Herne Hill to look at the new surface.  Coo!  There were some n00bs just starting a training session, and I didn't envy them fighting the wind up the back straight.

My dear old Dad told me many tales of riding his fixie at Herne Hill after he had finished sticking it up Rommel.  Poor bloke's not long for this world now, but he cheered up visibly when I read that to him.

Sorry, back to the commutes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 October, 2011, 09:51:12 pm
Have you shown him the pictures (on this forum) of the first day of racing on the new track?  That'll cheer him up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 12 October, 2011, 08:58:58 am
Me.

Not on my commute: shoes. It might've escaped notice but I've got a skirt on...

:facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 October, 2011, 09:00:52 am
tha daft 'a'porth! ;D

Great commute this morning.  A bit faster, because Butterfly was on her fast bike, which was fun.   Extending the commute and adding two hills to it - what's not to like? :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 12 October, 2011, 09:01:44 am
Last night was seriously wet and i stupidly left my gloves in my lid which was nice this morning.

Nice run in this morning, would have enjoyed it more if I wasn't running late and really had to put some effort in to it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 12 October, 2011, 09:24:00 am
Apple are releasing iCloud today, but it felt like the iCloud was tipping its contents all over me.

All I needed for a 'triathlon commute' was a bit where I had to get off the bike and run for a bit - the rest of the time I had the bike and swim components covered. Often at the same time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 12 October, 2011, 09:29:34 am
Three motorists decided to change lanes in front of me without looking or indicating, one tried to turn into a side street in front of me, all of them utter twunts of course, but what really hacked me off today was the appalling behaviour of cyclists.  Not just the usual red light jumping, half-wheeling, skipping onto the pavement, sidling up the left side of buses and trucks, but also barging, cutting across other cyclists, gobbing all over the place and generally making me wonder why I'd been so cheerful yesterday, when the sight of throngs of happy cyclists had gladdened my heart.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 12 October, 2011, 09:38:33 am
Quote from: Peewit on 12 October, 2011, 09:29:34 am
Three motorists decided to change lanes in front of me without looking or indicating, one tried to turn into a side street in front of me, all of them utter twunts of course, but what really hacked me off today was the appalling behaviour of cyclists.  Not just the usual red light jumping, half-wheeling, skipping onto the pavement, sidling up the left side of buses and trucks, but also barging, cutting across other cyclists, gobbing all over the place and generally making me wonder why I'd been so cheerful yesterday, when the sight of throngs of happy cyclists had gladdened my heart.

Hmmmm. Were the cyclists you saw yesterday perhaps doing this, but your mood meant that you weren't bothered ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JJ on 12 October, 2011, 10:02:15 am
Sent this to Sheffield Insulation:

"Hello,

Please could this be forwarded to the manager of your transport division.

This morning, on my pedal cycle, I followed one of your trucks (reg above) through Cambridge, specifically heading north-east along Lensfield Road, and I had a grandstand view while he made two attempts to overtake a girl cyclist.

I dion't think for a moment that the driver meant any harm, but both attempts were ill-considered and too close.  On the first attempt, he (or she) had to abandon when the rear wheels of the tractor were level with the cyclist, and drop back again due to oncoming vehicles, trapping her for an extended period between the kerb and the cab.  On the second attempt, he had insufficient room to complete the manoeuvre quickly, and was forced to begin closing back in before the rear of the trailor was clear of her. 

The clearance between her and the wheels was between two feet and eighteen inches, which is nothing like the "width of a small car" recommended by the highway code, but the real source of the problem was a lack of forward observation and planning.  It was clear that there wasn't room for the overtake which he was in any case barely able to complete before being stopped by the queue to turn right at the traffic lights for Hills Road.  With a little restraint on his part, she'd have been long gone and everyone happy.

As I said.  I'm sure no malice was intended, but perhaps he (or she) might be gently reminded of the benefits of planning ahead and of the golden "if in doubt - don't" rule.

Best wishes

John Juckes"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 October, 2011, 10:08:27 am
Did you get a registration?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 12 October, 2011, 10:11:45 am
Excellent letter, JJ.


I observed this morning, through my fogged up and rain-spattered spectacles, multiple examples of that motorists fondly-held belief that if you change lanes/pull out gradually, then you don't need to use indicators.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JJ on 12 October, 2011, 10:18:31 am
Quote from: clarion on 12 October, 2011, 10:08:27 am
Did you get a registration?

Yes.  It's in the subejct line of the email I sent.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 October, 2011, 10:19:49 am
We observed this morning that the number of motorised RLJs in Streatham is even higher than other parts of London we know.  Some quite terrifying ones, including a Carlsberg lorry.  Wish I'd got the details, but I was too busy getting out of the way, as I had stopped at the red light.

Follow up to yesterday's concern about dangerous parking: The photo upload was very useful, and the company concerned had sent the complaint higher up the management structure.  I got an email response pretty rapidly, and a phone call by mid-afternoon to say that they had interviewed the driver, that he had 'fessed up, claimed that he had apologised (they were unsurprised when I said he hadn't), and that it was now on his record.  Oh - and they said that if (and they hoped it didn't) it happened again, to use the direct management contact.

I was impressed with their response, and convinced by their sincerity.

They will be quoting for our waste contract ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 October, 2011, 10:20:42 am
Quote from: JJ on 12 October, 2011, 10:18:31 am
Quote from: clarion on 12 October, 2011, 10:08:27 am
Did you get a registration?

Yes.  It's in the subejct line of the email I sent.

Excellent.  Thanks for challenging that sort of behaviour.  I honestly believe they have no idea how dangerous it is.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 12 October, 2011, 10:28:22 am
Quote from: hatler on 12 October, 2011, 09:38:33 am
Hmmmm. Were the cyclists you saw yesterday perhaps doing this, but your mood meant that you weren't bothered ?

Yes, in part.  But yesterday's happiness was partly induced by seeing a mass of riders from a distance, sweeping through a junction and occupying the full width of the road in an almost critical-mass sort of way.
Title: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 12 October, 2011, 10:45:41 am
On the Brompton today for the first time in a while. Of course, this meant finally getting round to replacing the punctured tube that has prevented me using it for several weeks, which I've been lazily putting off because I've been using my other bike. And of course I was running late as usual this morning, so it was a rush job…

But I did it. 15 minutes, start to finish. Which, as anyone who has ever tried to remove a M+ from a Brompton wheel will know, is no small feat.

The really annoying thing is that it turned out not to be a new puncture but an old patch that had failed. :facepalm:

Still cut it fine to get to my dentist appointment on time. Had to apologise to the dentist for my appearance. She said she'd wondered if it was raining. :(

I do love my Brompton though. It's such a fun bike to ride. And I'm very glad I made the effort to fix the puncture - I so nearly bottled it and used the car instead. Eco-brownie points for me. So much nicer to ride anyway (and no slower either).

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 12 October, 2011, 10:46:59 am
Well done all you "squeaky wheels" for taking the time and effort to complain about those incidents.  I'm most grateful!!!
Title: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 12 October, 2011, 10:51:58 am
Quote from: clarion on 12 October, 2011, 10:19:49 am
We observed this morning that the number of motorised RLJs in Streatham is even higher than other parts of London we know. 

Think it's south London generally - I wasn't far off being taken out by an extremely reckless RLJing Beemer driver in Camberwell last week, and it's a regular occurrence at the big crossroads in Dulwich village.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dinamo on 12 October, 2011, 11:00:13 am
On my Dawes Audax today with newly acquired Barley bag fitted ( Ta Smurphboy ) fitted all my tools as well as sandwiches and waterproof.

Stopped on Avonmouth bridge to assist work colleague who had a slow puncture !
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 12 October, 2011, 11:29:00 am
Quote from: citoyen on 12 October, 2011, 10:51:58 am
Quote from: clarion on 12 October, 2011, 10:19:49 am
We observed this morning that the number of motorised RLJs in Streatham is even higher than other parts of London we know. 

Think it's south London generally - I wasn't far off being taken out by an extremely reckless RLJing Beemer driver in Camberwell last week, and it's a regular occurrence at the big crossroads in Dulwich village.

d.

Very bad one just in front of me at Surrey Docks last night when a bus sailed out of a side turning straight through the red light long after it had changed and traffic on the main road had started crossing the junction.  Driver then had the cheek to blast the horn aggressively at a couple of cyclists that were forced to swerve around him.  I was surprised that the cyclists didn't take him on at the next set of lights (about 100 yards further on).  There would have been plenty of witnesses from the audible gasps I heard around me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 12 October, 2011, 11:53:22 am
Quote from: Peewit on 12 October, 2011, 09:29:34 am
Three motorists decided to change lanes in front of me without looking or indicating, one tried to turn into a side street in front of me, all of them utter twunts of course, but what really hacked me off today was the appalling behaviour of cyclists.  Not just the usual red light jumping, half-wheeling

How can you be half-wheeled (http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=half-wheel) by random commuters you aren't trying to ride alongside?

PBP gilet worked this morning for the second time. Someone along side me at the lights at Lambeth Palace Road had a friend who rode it and was being complimentary.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 12 October, 2011, 12:24:48 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 12 October, 2011, 11:53:22 am
How can you be half-wheeled (http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=half-wheel) by random commuters you aren't trying to ride alongside?
Thanks for the clarification - I was slightly unsure whether this was the right term when I typed it.  What I meant was someone riding behind me and slightly to my right, with their front wheel overlapping my back wheel so I end up unable to dodge potholes and so forth.  Is there a technical term for that?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 12 October, 2011, 12:26:52 pm
Quote from: Peewit on 12 October, 2011, 12:24:48 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 12 October, 2011, 11:53:22 am
How can you be half-wheeled (http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=half-wheel) by random commuters you aren't trying to ride alongside?
Thanks for the clarification - I was slightly unsure whether this was the right term when I typed it.  What I meant was someone riding behind me and slightly to my right, with their front wheel overlapping my back wheel so I end up unable to dodge potholes and so forth.  Is there a technical term for that?

Riding like a Cock?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 12 October, 2011, 12:35:53 pm
Quote from: Peewit on 12 October, 2011, 12:24:48 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 12 October, 2011, 11:53:22 am
How can you be half-wheeled (http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=half-wheel) by random commuters you aren't trying to ride alongside?
Thanks for the clarification - I was slightly unsure whether this was the right term when I typed it.  What I meant was someone riding behind me and slightly to my right, with their front wheel overlapping my back wheel so I end up unable to dodge potholes and so forth.  Is there a technical term for that?

Unable to move to the right to dodge potholes?  It depends on how ruthless you're feeling.  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 12 October, 2011, 12:42:00 pm
Quote from: Peewit on 12 October, 2011, 12:24:48 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 12 October, 2011, 11:53:22 am
How can you be half-wheeled (http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=half-wheel) by random commuters you aren't trying to ride alongside?
Thanks for the clarification - I was slightly unsure whether this was the right term when I typed it.  What I meant was someone riding behind me and slightly to my right, with their front wheel overlapping my back wheel so I end up unable to dodge potholes and so forth.  Is there a technical term for that?

What you describe is what I too understood to be the definition of half-wheeling. It seems to be a common mistake, but from what I can gather by googling, Greenbank's definition is the correct one.

I don't know the correct name for this offence.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 12 October, 2011, 12:50:36 pm
Greenbank's link is not the only definition - the other common one is the one Peewit used.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 12 October, 2011, 12:51:44 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 12 October, 2011, 12:35:53 pm
Quote from: Peewit on 12 October, 2011, 12:24:48 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 12 October, 2011, 11:53:22 am
How can you be half-wheeled (http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=half-wheel) by random commuters you aren't trying to ride alongside?
Thanks for the clarification - I was slightly unsure whether this was the right term when I typed it.  What I meant was someone riding behind me and slightly to my right, with their front wheel overlapping my back wheel so I end up unable to dodge potholes and so forth.  Is there a technical term for that?

Unable to move to the right to dodge potholes?  It depends on how ruthless you're feeling.  ;)

I find that bunny hopping over potholes in this situation frightens the life out of whoevers crowding you and they move away cus they think you're gonna take them out
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 12 October, 2011, 12:53:13 pm
I think fuzzy's got it.

"overlapping" is about the only thing I think I've heard of but then I've absolutely zero experience of club/paceline riding (it probably shows). I await enlightenment.

I'd be tempted to tell them to politely cease and desist, followed by fuck off for the persistent/stupid and, if that doesn't have much of an effect, I'd start dodging potholes. If your rear wheel is struck it's very unlikely to result in a fall for you, only them. Riding further to the right gives you space on the inside to dodge stuff.

I'm tempted to start a poll about the term 'half wheeling' but I'm just trying to work out the best way to phrase the question without leading to (completely) useless results.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gareth Rees on 12 October, 2011, 09:48:28 pm
Quote from: Peewit on 12 October, 2011, 12:24:48 pm
Thanks for the clarification - I was slightly unsure whether this was the right term when I typed it.  What I meant was someone riding behind me and slightly to my right, with their front wheel overlapping my back wheel so I end up unable to dodge potholes and so forth.  Is there a technical term for that?

This is an echelon formation (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Echelon_formation) — it's the most sheltered position when there's a strong cross-wind from the left.

(I also agree with Greenbank about the meaning of "half-wheeling" — it's the practice of speeding up whenever someone tries to come alongside you, so that you are always half a wheel ahead.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 12 October, 2011, 10:02:43 pm
I shared my entire commute home with another cyclist!  :o  Thank you, Ham.  :thumbsup:

We took quite a few back routes I wouldn't normally use on a commute, and it didn't slow us down any.  I'll let Ham tell you his zip-tie bodge of a random cyclist's bike.

BTW, if you're never ridden with Ham, please note: he is a machine!
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 12 October, 2011, 10:45:57 pm
Strangely enough, I shared my commute too, and a very agreeable ride it was too.

As we were diving through my little back street shimmy to avoid Aldgate, a plaintive voice called out  "Could you help?" turned out a guy on a very trendy s/s had a VERY slack chain  - the wheel was completely loose. The r/h nut was 17mm, so was bodged tight with a pair of tinsnips. So far so good, because drive side was a 15mm, and I had a 15mm spanner. Unfortunately, the nut or spacer needed between the frame and hub was missing, so I did the best I could wrapping a decent nylon zip tie around, then tightening down. I down he will make the 3 miles he was hoping to.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 12 October, 2011, 10:58:08 pm
OK, no one else is going to say it but I will.

Get a room, you two  :P

EDIT: Nice bike BTW, Andrij.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 13 October, 2011, 08:33:33 am
I was commuting in unusually early this morning, and it turns out that the early cycle commuters are even more gormless than the later ones.

Crossing Clapham Common, I had a couple of not terribly unusual cyclists in front of me, who were wandering all over the path, so I decided it wasn't worth the risk of trying to overtake them.  Some chap in a Garmin Team top decided that it was, and almost collided with both of them. :-\

A little later on, just after crossing Chelsea Bridge, two different cyclists almost managed to get themselves squished by a bus, within a few seconds of each other, but with unique events.  One decided to try and overtake it just as it started to pull away, but with a car overtaking it as well.  The other thought he'd try and go up the inside, even though the front of the bus was basically touching the kerb anyway. :-\

Aside from all the appallingly bad cycling, I also followed a GoCycle for a while, with a cyclist who thought that meant he could emulate a motorcycle and overtake buses which were pulling away, except that he wasn't an awful lot faster than your average bimbling cyclist, so he also managed to come unstuck doing that, several times, hence demonstrating a lack of ability to learn.

The bizarre thing was, that the traffic was actually pretty light, and by and large, none of this behaviour was really necessary.  I guess it demonstrates that cyclists are just as good as car drivers at using every possible chance to shave a couple of seconds off of their journey times, regardless of the danger and risk that this involves. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Access Legal Guy on 13 October, 2011, 09:01:04 am
reprimanded by a motorcyclist for allegedly doing 32mph (I presume his speedo measurement, so probably in the high 20's) in a 30 zone, although it didn't feel that fast. He then proceeded to over take me and go on his merry way  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 13 October, 2011, 09:29:43 am
Quote from: clarion on 12 October, 2011, 10:19:49 am
We observed this morning that the number of motorised RLJs in Streatham is even higher than other parts of London we know. 
Peckham Rye crossroads with Nunhead Lane and East Dulwich road, happens all the time.  There's often a right turner, waiting past the stop line on East Dulwich Road, who got caught at the previous light change. As they move right up the Rye when the lights change again, others queueing behind the line take advantage of southbound traffic along Peckham Rye pausing to let them exit the junction, and accelerate through. Saw 3 cars do this on my green yesterday, crossing their own stop light after their light had changed to red.

   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 13 October, 2011, 09:51:46 am
.... I was an hour late.

Woke up this morning and thought "Have I switched the alarm off and gone back to sleep?"
Checked the clock and button was still up so no I hadn't.

I then thought "Have I slept through the alarm?" but SWMBO was beside me and still alive so the answer to that was "No- she would have kicked me."

I then looked at the clock and saw it said 3:15 so I thought "Great! Nearly 3 hours more sleep."

I was just about to roll over and go back to sleep when I thought "I could see the hands on the clock? Its' a bit light in here!" I checked my watch and saw it was 7:30 which led to frantic leaping out of bed and stuff.

Rode in with much more traffic than usual but hey, it was fun and adrenaline fuelled fast ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ajc on 13 October, 2011, 10:00:56 am
Rubbish commute.

5 days off the bike due to "a bit of a cold", decided to man up and take the fixie. Within a few minute of setting off downhill, I had popped 2 muscles, so I was riding along the main road, thinking they'll warm up and get better but then my left butt froze, got so painful I had to stop. Having the fixie meant I couldn't freewheel...doh !  I hobbled to the nearest train station, got a train to to Leeds, spent 20 minutes laying on the platform trying to ease the muscle while waiting for the next part of my journey. I gingerly rode the last mile and a half to work.
Must remember that I'm 47 and not 27 and after a few days off I can't just get on the bike and go anymore .

Not sure what I'll do for the return journey
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 13 October, 2011, 10:44:51 am
Quote from: TimO on 13 October, 2011, 08:33:33 am
The bizarre thing was, that the traffic was actually pretty light, and by and large, none of this behaviour was really necessary.  I guess it demonstrates that cyclists are just as good as car drivers at using every possible chance to shave a couple of seconds off of their journey times, regardless of the danger and risk that this involves. :(

I need to have words with myself about this. A couple of times recently, I've pulled manoeuvres that may have saved me a second or two but on reflection weren't the wisest idea. It's easy to get carried away in the heat of the moment, especially when motorists rile you and get your adrenalin flowing.  :-[

Note to self: it's not a race.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 13 October, 2011, 11:25:11 am
The following has never happened to me before in approx. a thousand commutes but happened twice this morning.

I'm turning right from major to minor road.   Car approaches the junction on minor to turn right onto major. Both times the cars stop briefly at the stop line. As I begin my manouevre each time said car(s) starts to pull out and would have hit me had it/they not braked again.  I assume both were SMIDSYs. The second time the driver may have been assisted by an 'OY' from me. It was still a bit gloomy here this morning but I'm well lit.  After my car-induced 'off' a couple of weeks ago, and these two incidents, I think I'm going to be a little more cautious than usual on the bike for a while.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 13 October, 2011, 12:05:06 pm
Quote from: fuzzy on 13 October, 2011, 09:51:46 am
.... I was an hour late.


I was an hour late getting up too due to an execuctive decision of "stuff it, I'm going back to sleep", was only 10 mins late getting to work though, just shows how much time I usually spend faffing around in the mornings
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 13 October, 2011, 02:39:09 pm
Foggy and damp here in Somerset this morning.
So much so that I was peering over my glasses instead of through them for most of the journey. Must switch the bike to it's winter set up. I'd have felt happier with some lights

S

(but it's lovely and sunny now) :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 13 October, 2011, 04:28:55 pm
Where'd the wind go?
Not that I'm complaining, but it doesn't seem quite right not to be struggling into an horrible gale.
Title: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 13 October, 2011, 07:17:50 pm
You know that feeling when you're dancing up the hills like Virenque in his loved-up prime? That.

Don't know what's got into me tonight but my legs were on fire. Suspect it's a combination of what lurker said (ie the wind has dropped), having not too much crap in my saddlebag tonight, and generally improved fitness.

Whatever it is, it feels great. Long may it continue. :thumbsup:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 14 October, 2011, 08:03:37 am
One muppet last night who wound his window down at the junction to say: "you can't just pull out like that"
Me: " all that arm waving thing it's called a signal, it tells you what I'm going to do. I wasn't trying to hail a passing taxi or attract search and recscue"
Muppet: "you can't do that"
Me: "what turn right?"
Muppet "Errrr...Not in front of me"

The lights changed so I gave up watching my words bounce off solid rock and went on my way.  ::-)

Absolutely cracking ride in this morning, traffic very light but seemed much darker this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 14 October, 2011, 08:10:56 am
Overtaken today.  By a taxi.  While I was stationary at a red light.
Grr.
Had I been in primary, I shudder to think what the consequences would have been.
Hackney Carriage number 494.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Morrisette on 14 October, 2011, 09:15:41 am
On the commute today I saw the Red Arrows! Not in their planes, but on bikes!

I was on the cycle path just coming into Quy on the way to Cambridge. Saw a police outrider coming towards me and assumed it was going to be another example of 'The Big Boat' (people who use Newmarket Road will know what I'm talking about) but it was a support van with 'Red Arrows' on the side and then about 20 riders. I assume this is the charity ride they are doing for the pilot who died in the summer - I was sure I'd read about it on here but I can't find it now. Anyway they all waved and gave me thumbs up and I did the same in return.

 8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 14 October, 2011, 09:18:17 am
Got chatting with a chap this morning heading for a school in Teddington. His philosophy to negotiating Kingston matched mine exactly.

As we crossed the bridge together the chat turned to the glory of the River, and it looked so tempting, with tendrils of mist being gently teased upwards by the early morning rays, that for the first time ever in the morning I took the Thames side path to Hampton Court.

Simply glorious.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hulver on 14 October, 2011, 10:25:53 am
I am seriously considering not wearing my hi-viz top anymore.

Since putting it on (as it's a light, long sleeve top just right for this weather) I've had a series of very close passes.

Since wearing it I've had at least one close pass on every trip.

Last night I had 3 on the way home.

An Audi who passed close enough for me to knock on the side of his car with my hand.
Another Audi who passed close enough and at high enough speed that I felt the wind on my leg.
A boy racer who didn't think he needed to move out at all when passing me.

This morning it was back to just the one, as I was struggling up the big hill on the way to work.

Really put me in fear of my life. And it's only a 2 1/2 mile commute! I've been seriously considering using the Trans Pennine Trail again, even though if it's slightly wet it leaves me and the bike caked in mud.

:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 14 October, 2011, 11:19:14 am
Quote from: hulver on 14 October, 2011, 10:25:53 am
I am seriously considering not wearing my hi-viz top anymore.

Since putting it on (as it's a light, long sleeve top just right for this weather) I've had a series of very close passes.

Since wearing it I've had at least one close pass on every trip.

Last night I had 3 on the way home.

An Audi who passed close enough for me to knock on the side of his car with my hand.
Another Audi who passed close enough and at high enough speed that I felt the wind on my leg.
A boy racer who didn't think he needed to move out at all when passing me.

This morning it was back to just the one, as I was struggling up the big hill on the way to work.

Really put me in fear of my life. And it's only a 2 1/2 mile commute! I've been seriously considering using the Trans Pennine Trail again, even though if it's slightly wet it leaves me and the bike caked in mud.

:(

Re the close passes, I sympathise and would gladly join you in 'educating'.

Re the mud- no sympathy at all. get on with it :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JJ on 14 October, 2011, 12:11:18 pm
Ran in this morning.  A bit peg-leggy from running home the long way last night, but everyone I passed seemed happy today.  Cheery good-mornings abounded.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 14 October, 2011, 12:29:19 pm
Quote from: Morrisette on 14 October, 2011, 09:15:41 am
On the commute today I saw the Red Arrows! Not in their planes, but on bikes!

I was on the cycle path just coming into Quy on the way to Cambridge. Saw a police outrider coming towards me and assumed it was going to be another example of 'The Big Boat' (people who use Newmarket Road will know what I'm talking about) but it was a support van with 'Red Arrows' on the side and then about 20 riders. I assume this is the charity ride they are doing for the pilot who died in the summer - I was sure I'd read about it on here but I can't find it now. Anyway they all waved and gave me thumbs up and I did the same in return.

 8)

the widow of the pilot who was killed is doing a coast to coast, Wales to Lowestoft, maybe it was them?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 14 October, 2011, 12:30:18 pm
Very considerate driving from a C&H Haulage artic in Rotherhithe.  Appraoching some road works where the road narrows, he slowed to a halt to allow all the cyclists who were coming up alongside (on his left - pratts) and behind to go through ahead of him. Then kept a nice distance behind them all the way through the roadworks.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 14 October, 2011, 06:58:18 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 14 October, 2011, 12:29:19 pm
Quote from: Morrisette on 14 October, 2011, 09:15:41 am
On the commute today I saw the Red Arrows! Not in their planes, but on bikes!

I was on the cycle path just coming into Quy on the way to Cambridge. Saw a police outrider coming towards me and assumed it was going to be another example of 'The Big Boat' (people who use Newmarket Road will know what I'm talking about) but it was a support van with 'Red Arrows' on the side and then about 20 riders. I assume this is the charity ride they are doing for the pilot who died in the summer - I was sure I'd read about it on here but I can't find it now. Anyway they all waved and gave me thumbs up and I did the same in return.

 8)

the widow of the pilot who was killed is doing a coast to coast, Wales to Lowestoft, maybe it was them?
I think the ride was already planned and the widow has taken her late husband's place.  Respect!

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 14 October, 2011, 07:12:13 pm
Quote from: hulver on 14 October, 2011, 10:25:53 am
I am seriously considering not wearing my hi-viz top anymore.

Since putting it on (as it's a light, long sleeve top just right for this weather) I've had a series of very close passes.
<snip>

I've been riding without a helmet to work. It's not very urban, and about quarter is traffic free sustrans route. There's nowhere to put kit at work, no shower, and really, even half an hour under a helmet makes for less than office-perfect hair. I'm new. I'm trying to persuade them I'm normal(ish). I'm trying to ride in without getting sweaty, too.
Don't get me wrong, I'm a big fan of plastic hats, I'll always wear one when properly off-roading, on ice/wet roads, and when riding with other people, as that's when I fall off.
But I did think that other road users were much more generous to the obviously female cyclist pootling along sans lid, than they were to the ambiguously gendered racing cyclist in a helmet.
Which, anecdatally backs up that research of the guy with the wig.

Perhaps I need to shift this comment elsewhere?
Title: Re: On the commute this week
Post by: Wonky on 14 October, 2011, 09:15:38 pm
Bit of a weekly summary, as have been too busy to post.

Monday, a bus driver tried to off me on the perimeter road. There is a roundabout that is no longer a roundabout due to there being only 2 exits now, so it is a sharp left hand bend instead. I thought that the bus following me was going in to the bus stop a few yards before the bend, so I didn't take primary, but he didn't pull into the bus stop as expected, but went for the overtake going on to the roundabout/left hand bend. I watched with horror as once he was past me enough that he could no longer see me through his door, he took the corner, and shut me down. Travelling at 20mph between a kerb with railings to my left, and a bus to the right was not fun. I banged on the bus window, but that only frightened the old lady sitting on the other side. I managed to stop from going under by leaning hard left, with wheels under the side of the bus, and my right forearm against the bus side. Cut my elbow too, but I stayed on. Caught him up at the bus station and took a photo of the bus and driver before 'having words'. he denied everything, hadn't even seen me, wasn't there etc.

Tuesday - not much but were a bit blowy.

Wednesday - Was 'honking away' from some lights on the way home when the back of my pannier caught the wheel. clip on rear light spread across the road, but I got all the bits back and it still worked. Then notice rhythmic noise. Wheel out of true. Get home to find I broke a spoke. LBS had every size but the one I need. He gave me (gratis) one that was a couple of mm too short, but try as I might, it wouldn't fit. After loosening lots of spokes in the attempt, it now looks decidedly like a pringle.
New wheel ordered from Halfrauds reserve + collect.
I am considering rebuilding the wheel, but looking at it, the spokes are rusty, the nipples are rounded, the hub is graunchy (I should have changed the axle last time I did the bearings), and the rim is carp. It may one day emerge from the shed 'repaired' like triggers broom.

Thursday - Car, stuck in traffic. Reminded why I cycle. Picked up new wheel and fitted it.

Today - Wow that old hub really was knackered, new bearing had me zipping along, although the lack of wind probably helps. Its amazing how you get used to deterioration, and then notice the improvement when you fix it. Was glad of my winter top and jacket today though, was a bit nippy out this am. Was a heatwave 2 weeks ago.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: trio25 on 15 October, 2011, 07:28:25 am
Don't normally have many problems on my commute, yesterday afternoon felt like there were loads of idiots on the road. Skidded to a stop after one women turned across me to turn right. Then later a nice lorry stopped on a single carriageway road to let me through, taxi came past him and drove straight at me forcing me off the road.

Still off the bike now till monday so hopefully all the idiots will disappear again!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 15 October, 2011, 07:41:49 am
Quote from: Redlight on 14 October, 2011, 12:30:18 pm
Very considerate driving from a C&H Haulage artic in Rotherhithe.  Appraoching some road works where the road narrows, he slowed to a halt to allow all the cyclists who were coming up alongside (on his left - pratts) and behind to go through ahead of him. Then kept a nice distance behind them all the way through the roadworks.  :thumbsup:

You've reminded me - I often get overtaken by a huge drawbar outfit with ASPREYS in big letters on the back. We use the same stretch of single carriageway road at the same time most mornings. His* overtaking is always exemplary - wide and well timed in between the various refuges and bollards. I tend to like big trucks with professional drivers - the local Bassetts drivers often back off and straddle the lanes on the A34 double roundabouts which shields me (I'm in the middle of the middle lane) from the Audi whiz-kids.

* I assume it's a "he" driving.  :-[

I must contact the firm to say thank you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 15 October, 2011, 11:00:50 am
Do Gordy, I have found it does the driver a world of good to get praise from the public, and generally you find other drivers for the same outfit start doing the same thing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: longers on 15 October, 2011, 01:00:08 pm
I contacted a local firm to praise their drivers, Carpenters of Glossop, didn't get a reply but thought it was worth doing.

On the commute this morning I saw three foxes, the first stood in the road and watched me go past, the second was chasing a cat across the road and I was able to steer between them and head the fox off and the third was filthy.
On the way back I called in at a cafe I've found that does very good meat and potato pies. Because they didn't have any left I was given a free cheese and onion pie.
I bought a samosa and am having a double decker with the pie underneath the samosa. Both warmed through in the oven at home. Recommended!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 16 October, 2011, 10:49:21 pm
Quote from: fboab on 14 October, 2011, 07:12:13 pm
I'm new. I'm trying to persuade them I'm normal(ish).
a) Congratulations :)
b) Lost cause ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 16 October, 2011, 11:52:12 pm
Not really commuting, but using bike and train to take my mandolin to play at a folk club this evening. I recognised hime, and we had a long chat on the train, and he was an absolutely lovely man. Some bonzer stories...

Arthur Brown.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 17 October, 2011, 08:09:26 am
Oh what a beautiful morning, great weather and absolutely flying, 32mph along altrincham road much to the confusion of a number of motons
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 17 October, 2011, 09:52:32 am
Came in to London on the Roubaix for its first proper ride since PBP. I've been generally riding either my fixed Pursuit or my Audax Mk3, but figured out that my small work laptop (with SSD hard drive, therefore reasonably vibration immune) will actually fit in my saddlebag so I don't need a pannier rack, therefore I can ride the soot bike. A fantastic morning to be out doing a 40 mile commute. A bit chilly to start with (YACF buff in headscarf mode under my cap to keep my neck and ears warm), but once the sun came up it was bright and glorious.

An irritating crane driver kept trying to overtake me on a short-ish uphill on the A30. I'd overtaken him after Camberley, and left him way behind as I dropped into Bagshot. He caught up at lights, then was driving right behind me on the climb (with his crane boom alongside) as he tried to decide if he had room between islands in the middle of the road (he didn't). I was doing 20mph uphill, he could maybe manage 25.
Once I got to a safe point a couple of hundred metres up the road I waved him past, and he took the next left turn, so all that bullying gained him nothing  >:(

I managed to arrive at Sunningdale just as the level crossing barriers came down (close enough to consider running them), so lost five minutes there for one train to go past.

Coming through Slough my rear crud roadracer guard failed again. I think I'm going to wait for the new SKS ones rather than replace the broken bit again (at about £6 now from crud it's getting quite expensive to run them), and see about making a hybrid rear guard using the crud part to protect the front mech and the SKS for the back.

I'd almost forgotten how lovely the Roubaix is to ride, and the PBP experience came back when I felt the urge to high-5 someone on the roadside who had their hand out to wave down a bus  :demon:

I was reminded why I normally come in later though; the London traffic before 9am is a bit of a nightmare, even on a bike. And not helped by the POBs who force their way to the front every time the traffic stops, then wobble and crawl away holding everyone up.

Looking forward to the ride home  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 17 October, 2011, 10:19:20 am
Where do you commute to Matt?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 17 October, 2011, 10:22:15 am
Quote from: MattH on 17 October, 2011, 09:52:32 am
I was reminded why I normally come in later though; the London traffic before 9am is a bit of a nightmare, even on a bike.

My commute is much less of a nightmare during the school holidays, but then I pass through Putney, Parsons Green, Fulham, Chelsea, etc where Wankpanzers on the school run swamp the roads.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 17 October, 2011, 10:32:44 am
Tried to vary the commute and went through Leytonstone highroad with its convenient contraflow bike lane.
He didn't see me in his red mondeo, he only spotted the empty parking space ( there: http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?q=leytonstone&hl=en&ll=51.568177,0.01089&spn=0.000007,0.004624&sll=53.800651,-4.064941&sspn=14.432157,37.880859&vpsrc=6&hnear=Leytonstone,+Greater+London,+United+Kingdom&t=m&z=18&layer=c&cbll=51.568452,0.011048&panoid=MKh5-gsIc5HPIzz9B5hkjQ&cbp=12,66.5,,0,14.3 (http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?q=leytonstone&hl=en&ll=51.568177,0.01089&spn=0.000007,0.004624&sll=53.800651,-4.064941&sspn=14.432157,37.880859&vpsrc=6&hnear=Leytonstone,+Greater+London,+United+Kingdom&t=m&z=18&layer=c&cbll=51.568452,0.011048&panoid=MKh5-gsIc5HPIzz9B5hkjQ&cbp=12,66.5,,0,14.3) ) on the other side of the solid white line and cycling lane, so in his excitement didnt have time to indicate or even look 10m in front of him.
When he finally spotted the flashing Hope vision 1 and high Viz vest and brought his tank to a standstill, it was in the middle of the lane and my rear wheel was 10cm off the ground.... not where it was meant to be.... it ended up in a near miss. No fall, no collision.

The rest of the journey was very pleasant given the weather conditions.


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 17 October, 2011, 10:35:14 am
Quote from: fuzzy on 17 October, 2011, 10:19:20 am
Where do you commute to Matt?

Our current London office is on Hammersmith Road, midway between Hammersmith and Olympia. We've got a bigger one opening in a month or so just off Oxford Circus.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 17 October, 2011, 10:41:48 am
Ah, right.

You have the good fortune of only having to transit Slough :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ajc on 17 October, 2011, 10:59:47 am
I left my fixie at home and rode my geared bike in.

Lovely ride in the sun, I was fairly sensible in the busy stretches along Kirkstall Road into Leeds. I'd watch the traffic next to me cos you know at some stage they will slow to let someone out of a side street, so I was happily slowing with them and letting the cars out too ! 

Overtook quite a few cars on the final stretch of Kirkstall Road into Leeds, that was fun  :thumbsup:

Ride out of Leeds to work was great, on the A64 York road I have to go across a dual carriage to get into the right hand lane, I get up to around 30mph so I can filter with the traffic, the drivers were very courteous and held back to let me filter across, so there were thanks all round, lots of thumbs up, me to them, them to me  :smug:

I think it will be a headwind going home, bring it on !
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 17 October, 2011, 11:45:10 am
Quote from: MattH on 17 October, 2011, 09:52:32 am
Coming through Slough my rear crud roadracer guard failed again. I think I'm going to wait for the new SKS ones rather than replace the broken bit again (at about £6 now from crud it's getting quite expensive to run them), and see about making a hybrid rear guard using the crud part to protect the front mech and the SKS for the back.


Sunningdale to Hammersmith via Slough is the long way round, don't you mean Staines or Hounslow?

unfortunately I was on the 7 o'clock train otherwise that may have been my train you were waiting for.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cus666 on 17 October, 2011, 11:46:12 am
After a pretty awful nights sleep the temptation to jump in the car was huge! Resisted and the ride from slightly grey Sheffield to even greyer Chesterfield was pretty uneventful other than realising that the new cycle lights I had fitted over the weekend were as bright as some of the car lights coming the other way!!! :thumbsup:



Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 17 October, 2011, 12:11:55 pm
Quote from: matthew on 17 October, 2011, 11:45:10 am
Quote from: MattH on 17 October, 2011, 09:52:32 am
Coming through Slough my rear crud roadracer guard failed again. I think I'm going to wait for the new SKS ones rather than replace the broken bit again (at about £6 now from crud it's getting quite expensive to run them), and see about making a hybrid rear guard using the crud part to protect the front mech and the SKS for the back.


Sunningdale to Hammersmith via Slough is the long way round, don't you mean Staines or Hounslow?


Yes, Staines. Staines, Slough - they are both southern places that are instantly forgettable. For a northerner like me they kind of merge into one  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 17 October, 2011, 12:12:44 pm
Road fixed on the new bike.  Twas loverly.  Need to shorten the stem slightly though so will do that tonight.  Otherwise, sweet and pure as.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 17 October, 2011, 12:21:00 pm
Quote from: ajc on 17 October, 2011, 10:59:47 am
I left my fixie at home and rode my geared bike in.

Lovely ride in the sun, I was fairly sensible in the busy stretches along Kirkstall Road into Leeds. I'd watch the traffic next to me cos you know at some stage they will slow to let someone out of a side street, so I was happily slowing with them and letting the cars out too ! 

Overtook quite a few cars on the final stretch of Kirkstall Road into Leeds, that was fun  :thumbsup:

Ride out of Leeds to work was great, on the A64 York road I have to go across a dual carriage to get into the right hand lane, I get up to around 30mph so I can filter with the traffic, the drivers were very courteous and held back to let me filter across, so there were thanks all round, lots of thumbs up, me to them, them to me  :smug:

I think it will be a headwind going home, bring it on !
I've misunderstood your route; I thought you were riding in the other direction.

I know that junction - it's not a lot of fun on a bike. I had a headwind on the last 5miles coming into Leeds, so you should get it on the way home while I'll be enjoying a tailwind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ajc on 17 October, 2011, 01:20:16 pm
What time do you ride in MrCharly, I'm usually on the A64 (in the opposite direction !) at about 8;40  out of Leeds then turn right up though Halton.  I'll wave   :D
Enjoy the tailwind on the way home, I bet it'll be 23 miles of headwind for me !

I once had 5 people stop and watch me fix a puncture by the side of that road, most bizarre, I was stood on my rucksack, trying to change a tyre and keep an eye on them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 17 October, 2011, 01:27:23 pm
Near Gipton, were you!  I'm worried they'll nick the wheels from my bike while I'm riding.

I pass through that bit sometime between 830 and 8:45 in the morning.

Evening times - well, sometimes I leave work at 5, sometimes at 7  :-\  Probably will leave at 5 tonight.

Looks like the wind is getting up a bit - 25 gusting to 35 in York. Pure tailwind for me.

Leeds isn't quite as windy
http://www.weatheronline.co.uk/weather/maps/city?LANG=en&WMO=03347&TIME=std&CONT=ukuk&R=0&LEVEL=140&REGION=0002&LAND=NOR&ART=wind&NOREGION=0&PLZ=&PLZN=_____&SORT=__&TEMP=___&WETTER=__&&TYP=__&SEITE=0 (http://www.weatheronline.co.uk/weather/maps/city?LANG=en&WMO=03347&TIME=std&CONT=ukuk&R=0&LEVEL=140&REGION=0002&LAND=NOR&ART=wind&NOREGION=0&PLZ=&PLZN=_____&SORT=__&TEMP=___&WETTER=__&&TYP=__&SEITE=0)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 17 October, 2011, 01:39:42 pm
Quote from: Si_Co on 17 October, 2011, 08:09:26 am
and absolutely flying, 32mph along altrincham road

I hope you will be doing this all week.It may slow you down tire you out sufficiently for my benefit on Sunday :demon: ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ajc on 17 October, 2011, 04:31:10 pm
Thanks for the wind report, it'll still make for a fun ride and at least you should be able to fly home, I'll be heading to Bingley.

I don't like stopping around that part of the York Road, though its ok most of the time, you don't get too many chavs hanging around, glass is usually more of a problem.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 17 October, 2011, 08:18:04 pm
Had a funny one this morning.

Just coming off the Target roundabout on to Church Road, where the bus lane starts, and I get about 20 yards in to the bus lane, when an Idiot Moton comes flying past me at speed, with inches to spare, and then cuts in to the right hand lane in front of the car he was so desperate to undertake.
I start a 'conversation of hand signals' at him to inquire as to his motives and question his driving ability, relationship status etc. We keep this 'conversation' going for the length of the road, me in the bus lane, him in the car lane, and he ends up stopped at the front at the lights going on to the White Hart roundabout.
I pull up to his drivers window, which he winds down, and the verbal conversation begins.

Idiot Moton - (Aggressively) "Whats your problem, I didnt see you or the bus lane because I was looking at my satnav" (as if I would say 'oh your satnav, well thats O.K. then')
Me - (even more aggressively) "Exactly, you didnt see the f***ing cyclist, or the f***ing bus lane, because you were too busy looking at a f***ing screen and the car you so desperately needed to overtake - use your f***ing eyes"
Idiot moton - "Dont swear at me"
Me " Ill swear at anyone that tries to f***ing kill me".

The lights go green, and we pull on to the White Hart roundabout, keeping the conversation going. I am ranting about his observational skills. I am slightly in front, and alongside Idiot Moton pulls a police car, which I see but Idiot Moton doesn't, just in time for Idiot Moton to shout the usual;
"Watch your mouth, I'm in a car and can run you over"!!!

Knowing that the police are interestedly watching, I reply with "come on then", and Idiot moton revs his engine and swerves a bit. The police took over from there on, I left them in my dust watching the police giving him hand signals of the 'pull over' type.

Win for me. All thoughts of the chilliness left my mind at that point, and I flew the rest of the commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gerwinium on 17 October, 2011, 08:22:13 pm
Apart from the wind, I managed to take an involuntary tumble over the handlebars on Woolwich Road, induced by a gentleman in a people carrier turning left right in front of me. The bike was OK, apart from the chain having come off, so got to go to the supermarket with grease all over my hands. I landed on my left knee and right hand with some handlebars pointing into my leg, so I think I'll have some bruises the next few days. The guy stopped and immediately apologised, so I just told him to look where he's going next time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 17 October, 2011, 08:25:18 pm
Nice one Parsley!!  I would have been tempted to stop with the police and explain his shortcomings to them also.  :D

Shame gerwinium, my sympathies.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 17 October, 2011, 08:34:24 pm
My previous employment had me riding with the prevailing wind there, and against it back.

Now it is reversed. So when, on days like today, the wind picks up through the day, I get blown home in a toasty caramel smelling blast from the sugar factory. Brill.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ajc on 17 October, 2011, 11:20:59 pm
Wet & windy, actually very wet & very windy on the way home. One guy thought it would be great to drive his BMW tank (well it was huge) along the cycle lane to stop me riding past him while he was in a queue on Kirkstall Road. I went past him on the drivers side and just said tosser as I passed his open window and headed off through the traffic, leaving him still sat there.......that gave me a warm feeling  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 October, 2011, 12:42:01 am
Just done a quick out and back to work.  With so few cars on the road compared to normal, it's unsurprising that the ride flowed well downwind, but also on the way home - a ride I had not been looking forward to - into a comedy wind, blowing a succession of unlikely objects back past me as if to taunt me with its strength and persistence - it was a grand ride, and earlier thoughts of possibly bailing to a train did not return from the moment I pushed the first pedal to when I glided to a halt outside my home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 18 October, 2011, 08:08:06 am
A bit wet and wild this morning although I do like watching the rain and hail crossing the beam of the hope vision 1. Running a bit late due to the back up light acting up but fixed it after a bit of persuasion, banging it on the worktop while swearing profusely at it.
Managed to make up a bit of lost time chasing a bus down altrincham road for the last mile and a half.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 18 October, 2011, 08:23:53 am
Quote from: ajc on 17 October, 2011, 11:20:59 pm
Wet & windy, actually very wet & very windy on the way home. One guy thought it would be great to drive his BMW tank (well it was huge) along the cycle lane to stop me riding past him while he was in a queue on Kirkstall Road. I went past him on the drivers side and just said tosser as I passed his open window and headed off through the traffic, leaving him still sat there.......that gave me a warm feeling  :smug:

 :thumbsup: I used to get that down there, and down the Headingley road too.

So nothing has changed in 12 years or more :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 18 October, 2011, 08:24:50 am
I think I may have been a tad underdressed today (perhaps I should have gone for the morning, rather than lounge, suit?).  Anyway, the cool air quickly banished any drowsiness.

The ride wasn't too bad, except for interactions with two 2-wheelers.  First was the PTW who passed me extremely closely and at such a high speed the only distinguishing feature I noticed was the rather large L on the back of his bike.  :facepalm:   Both times I've been in preparation for obtaining a motor vehicle licence I've been extremely careful, almost paranoid, when on the road.  It's not a good idea to gain the attention of the plod, especially if you don't have a full licence.  OTOH, what are the odds of getting pulled over on London's roads?  ::-)

The second was a cyclist who passed so closely I could tell he missed a spot when shaving.  I can only assume he thinks cyclists aren't allowed to leave the strip of blue paint.  I quickly proved to him it was possible as I left him in my wake.

The best part of the commute?  Door to door in 30 minutes!  (usually around 35)  I didn't set any speed records, just got very lucky with the lights.

The day goes down hill (and not in a good, cycling sort of way) from here.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ajc on 18 October, 2011, 11:23:12 am
Quote from: tiermat on 18 October, 2011, 08:23:53 am
Quote from: ajc on 17 October, 2011, 11:20:59 pm
Wet & windy, actually very wet & very windy on the way home. One guy thought it would be great to drive his BMW tank (well it was huge) along the cycle lane to stop me riding past him while he was in a queue on Kirkstall Road. I went past him on the drivers side and just said tosser as I passed his open window and headed off through the traffic, leaving him still sat there.......that gave me a warm feeling  :smug:

 :thumbsup: I used to get that down there, and down the Headingley road too.

So nothing has changed in 12 years or more :)

Yes, it hasn't changed, still tossers out there, not many these days but enough. :-\

I've had some great ride in the past 6 weeks, done around 1000 miles without issue then I had one last night and one this morning.
A lorry overtook me as I went round a long sweeping bend, he gave me a foot of space which i thought was close, then he started to cut the corner. I could see the side of the lorry getting closer and closer, I slowed then braked hard as the back wheels went past and the lorry slid into the space I would have been. It got me so wound up that I chased the lorry and when he stopped, so did I , I nearly went over the handlebars I stopped so quickly when the back wheel lifted up. I just told him that he had nearly killed me, all he could say was sorry. It was a white lorry with no markings so I couldn't really do much other than tell him to be more careful, took me a few miles to get over it.
Apart from that it was fine  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 18 October, 2011, 12:54:15 pm
Revolting sight this morning. Just before Peckham bus garage this male cyclist passes me and he is wearing jeans hung low, just above that are his grey and pink striped underwear and then his muffin top of flesh. Ych y fi.

Myself and another chap waited at the traffic lights as he sailed through them. I said to the other chap 'thank God he has gone, if I had to see that again I would  :sick: - honestly that is worse than the lycra thinning arses I see out there'. We (and the van driver listening in) had a wee chuckle and set off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 18 October, 2011, 02:34:51 pm
Last night I was really in the mood and my usual post-work ride (Southwark to Bromley, where I get on the train for the rest of the way home) left me unsatisfied, so I got off the train at Faversham (a stop early) to add a few extra miles. Then I thought, what the heck, I'll take the long way home down the dark country lanes via Selling, which goes via the highest point locally - not significant altitude exactly (barely 100m above sea level), but on a crisp, clear evening, it gives a great view over the Seasalter marshes.

OK, so it meant I didn't get home until 9pm, but I rounded up my ride home from about 25km to nearly 50km. A very enjoyable ride that gave me a real warm glow and a feeling that all is well in the world.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 18 October, 2011, 10:06:22 pm
... I actually rode my bike, for what felt like the first time in ages. Lovely. Tomorrow I'll remember my gloves.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 18 October, 2011, 11:25:32 pm
Not commuting, but posts in here about considerate treatment from HGVs remind me of a very good interaction a couple of days on an extremely narrow country lane, with a van from - of all outfits - City Link!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 19 October, 2011, 07:32:37 am
I am well sore this morning.  Legs less so than my stomach muscles.  This fixed riding is using different muscles than gears.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 19 October, 2011, 08:09:40 am
Last night's commute was run to soundtrack of PING, PING PING, OUCH, PING, OUCH, AAAARGH FECKIN FROZEN WATER. I hate hail.

This morning was good till I got to work and noticed the bike making a funny noise, the rear crud gaurd has worn through on the tie wrap  ::-) Ah well thats a wiggle order today, can't complain too much they've done two years service

*edit due to posting halfway through typing  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris N on 19 October, 2011, 08:43:28 am
Quote from: GruB on 19 October, 2011, 07:32:37 am
I am well sore this morning.  Legs less so than my stomach muscles.  This fixed riding is using different muscles than gears.

 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 19 October, 2011, 09:25:36 am
For the second day running yesterday I was nearly taken out by a car turning right across me. 

Both drivers had mobiles hermetically sealed to their ears.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 19 October, 2011, 09:56:58 am
Last night I had to apologise to a fellow cyclist.  I spotted a car approaching from the right.  As I suspected he might pull into the lane I was in just as I arrived I began to slow and let out an almighty "Oi!".  Unfortunately it was at this exact moment that a woman pulled up between me and the car.  She thought I was yelling at her! (must not have noticed the car :facepalm: ).

Commuted in shorts again today but wore liners under my mitts.  Also went over 1,000km on the new bike (just over 6 weeks) but missed the moment as I was crossing a busy junction at the time.

As my after-work drinks today have been rescheduled I think I'll take the long way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 19 October, 2011, 12:07:40 pm
Distinctly cool this morning - the thin gloves weren't enough. Might have to start wearing socks with my sandals; my toes felt chilly. 4C and clear, lovely weather.

Slightly marred by the moron who tried going from the innermost lane of roundabout to an exit - when he had found I was already alongside him he just hit his horn and bellowed nonsense from a rabid chimpface.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 19 October, 2011, 12:15:26 pm
I passed a lady on a traditional ladies' bike with a big saddle and small basket. I had to work to catch her and I didn't lose her -she caught me again a couple of times. She was going really well, especially as she could have done with a bit more air in her rear tyre :). It is nice to see another woman on that stretch. Yesterday I passed a chap wearing a Fnrttc jersey waiting to cross Mitcham Lane - not sure if it was someone from here or elsewhere. 8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 19 October, 2011, 12:20:04 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 19 October, 2011, 12:07:40 pm
Distinctly cool this morning - the thin gloves weren't enough. Might have to start wearing socks with my sandals; my toes felt chilly. 4C and clear, lovely weather.
I had an UGRI1 this morning, and wrestling with the back wheel and the various bits of hub gear attached to it made me wish I'd at least worn my glove liners. Matters weren't helped by the fact that the tyres are a *very* tight fit on the rim. On the other hand, the sun was out, the birdies were singing and I managed not to break any more tyre levers.

1 - Unscheduled Gaseous Release Incident. A visitation, if you will.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 19 October, 2011, 12:21:44 pm
Quote from: interzen on 19 October, 2011, 12:20:04 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 19 October, 2011, 12:07:40 pm
Distinctly cool this morning - the thin gloves weren't enough. Might have to start wearing socks with my sandals; my toes felt chilly. 4C and clear, lovely weather.
I had an UGRI1 this morning, and wrestling with the back wheel and the various bits of hub gear attached to it made me wish I'd at least worn my glove liners. Matters weren't helped by the fact that the tyres are a *very* tight fit on the rim. On the other hand, the sun was out, the birdies were singing and I managed not to break any more tyre levers.

1 - Unscheduled Gaseous Release Incident. A visitation, if you will.

Not one of these then? :)

(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/__MM5EkTPxAQ/SpKbhor5O-I/AAAAAAAAAW4/PLT4jaz4F0o/s400/ogri.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 19 October, 2011, 12:22:39 pm
Quote from: interzen on 19 October, 2011, 12:20:04 pm

 Unscheduled Gaseous Release Incident. A visitation, if you will.

a.k.a. a fart flatulance,perhaps?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 19 October, 2011, 12:25:01 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 19 October, 2011, 12:07:40 pm
Distinctly cool this morning - the thin gloves weren't enough. Might have to start wearing socks with my sandals; my toes felt chilly. 4C and clear, lovely weather.

You are made of sterner stuff than me - I've been wearing my merino socks for the last few days.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 19 October, 2011, 12:27:37 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 19 October, 2011, 12:25:01 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 19 October, 2011, 12:07:40 pm
Distinctly cool this morning - the thin gloves weren't enough. Might have to start wearing socks with my sandals; my toes felt chilly. 4C and clear, lovely weather.

You are made of sterner stuff than me - I've been wearing my merino socks for the last few days.

d.
This. And I've been breaking in the merino base layers I bought from On-One (they're bloody good for 20 quid; just ordered another couple)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 19 October, 2011, 12:29:18 pm
Quote from: jogler on 19 October, 2011, 12:22:39 pm
Quote from: interzen on 19 October, 2011, 12:20:04 pm

 Unscheduled Gaseous Release Incident. A visitation, if you will.

a.k.a. a fart flatulance,perhaps?
Not in this particular case, no ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 19 October, 2011, 12:39:07 pm
Quote from: interzen on 19 October, 2011, 12:27:37 pm
This. And I've been breaking in the merino base layers I bought from On-One (they're bloody good for 20 quid; just ordered another couple)

Yup, bloody good for 20 quid. I wore my Planet X merino jersey today. Lovely and toasty. I have two and would buy a couple more if I weren't skint.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 19 October, 2011, 12:43:36 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 19 October, 2011, 12:39:07 pm
Quote from: interzen on 19 October, 2011, 12:27:37 pm
This. And I've been breaking in the merino base layers I bought from On-One (they're bloody good for 20 quid; just ordered another couple)

Yup, bloody good for 20 quid. I wore my Planet X merino jersey today. Lovely and toasty. I have two and would buy a couple more if I weren't skint.

d.
I'm not exactly flush with cash myself at this point in the month, but I'm making the most of the fact that they're £20 each *and* available in fat bastard sizes. £400 worth of root-canal surgery on November 1st means that I sure as hell won't be buying any next month ...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ajc on 19 October, 2011, 12:44:11 pm
I can happily report that I've 2 incident free rides. Last night was a headwind all the way home, added a good 15 minutes onto my journey time. Today I rode my fixie, had a couple of hills to go up, was quite tired when I got to work but I thoroughly enjoyed it !

Only thing to report was getting stuck behind a learner on a small motorbike, she wanted to filter along the outside of the queuing traffic but wasn't sure, kept starting to do it then stopping again so I was stuck behind her as there wasn't enough room to overtake. I managed it eventually, but only after I had stopped, took my foot out the left pedal, (right pedal at the bottom)  then saw the gap, pushed off and was lifted right off the saddle as the right pedal came up.
Must have looked really cool !  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 19 October, 2011, 01:50:13 pm
Pedestrians using mobile phones  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 19 October, 2011, 01:57:36 pm
Just under 4C this morning so it was gloves and windproof jersey for the first time since last Winter.

Early start, clear run, sun out when I arrived. Nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: urban_biker on 19 October, 2011, 03:09:24 pm
Quote from: GruB on 19 October, 2011, 07:32:37 am
I am well sore this morning.  Legs less so than my stomach muscles.  This fixed riding is using different muscles than gears.

That's so familiar - fixed manages to give me an upper body workout as well as the legs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 19 October, 2011, 06:29:23 pm
Wished I had full gloves on instead of fingerless today.

Mildly scary moment on my way home, just as I left the office. As I have mentioned before, my office is in a very unsalubrious industrial estate. Working back from the main road, there's the tyre place, council transport, us, and a removal firm. Oh, and a dirty houseclean firm. So there are a lot of vans and lorries around. As I come out of the office I have to turn right into the side road which then has a left hand bend and then straight on to the main road. As I pulled out into the side road I couldn't see anything coming and set off, as shown in green, only to find a massive articulated removal lorry coming around the bend, as shown in orange. I was quite far to my right to ensure cars coming from the road around the back of the building (as shown in dotted yellow) could see me, the lorry was quite far to its right to get round the bend and to avoid the parked at the side of the road.

It was much much closer to me than I wanted it to be, especially as the rear section swung round, and I had to take a quick swerve into the footway, which is only segregated from the road by bollards. It can be difficult to see if anything's coming up the road because it slopes quite steeply down, and the space between the road and the bit of the road round the bend is usually filled with social work minibuses, plus bushes behind the fence. And at this time of year, the sun's in your eyes.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v379/Flossiesdoll/Random%20stuff/eek.png)

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Speshact on 19 October, 2011, 08:27:16 pm
Northbound under the Marylebone Flyover on the Edgware Road today. Stay in the left of the two general trafffic lanes and ignore the very short bus lane to the left. Van driver passes and the passenger shouts, "Bus Lane".

I pass on his inside 20yds up the road and say, "Traffic Jam"  :smug:.

Nice to be able to do it secure in the knowledge that there's no way the traffic will dissolve on that road for him to stand a chance of passing me up the road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 19 October, 2011, 09:11:48 pm
Quote from: Kirst on 19 October, 2011, 06:29:23 pm
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v379/Flossiesdoll/Random%20stuff/eek.png)
[Extreme Geek alert]
I recognise that set of points.  I'll wave next time any train I'm on gets diverted that way.
[/Extreme Geek]
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 19 October, 2011, 09:28:10 pm
You won't. It's a goods line.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 19 October, 2011, 09:30:26 pm
bad day today, just came back from the hospitals. on my way to work i've tried to avoid collision with another cyclist (who turned right few meters in front of me at the junction, allegedly not seeing me), braked hard, went over the bars.. five broken teeth, broken nose and elbow, grazed chin. painkillers are working, but the future doesn't seem to be bright at the moment.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 19 October, 2011, 09:31:22 pm
Quote from: Kirst on 19 October, 2011, 09:28:10 pm
You won't. It's a goods line.
Even better ... more chance of seeing something interesting.

IGMC ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 19 October, 2011, 10:19:22 pm
Quote from: zigzag on 19 October, 2011, 09:30:26 pm
bad day today, just came back from the hospitals. on my way to work i've tried to avoid collision with another cyclist (who turned right few meters in front of me at the junction, allegedly not seeing me), braked hard, went over the bars.. five broken teeth, broken nose and elbow, grazed chin. painkillers are working, but the future doesn't seem to be bright at the moment.

Very ouch, GWS.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 19 October, 2011, 10:28:39 pm
Quote from: rower40 on 19 October, 2011, 09:11:48 pm
[Extreme Geek alert]
I recognise that set of points.  I'll wave next time any train I'm on gets diverted that way.
[/Extreme Geek]

Trackspotting is the new trainspotting?   :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 19 October, 2011, 10:34:56 pm
Quote from: Kim on 19 October, 2011, 10:28:39 pm
Quote from: rower40 on 19 October, 2011, 09:11:48 pm
[Extreme Geek alert]
I recognise that set of points.  I'll wave next time any train I'm on gets diverted that way.
[/Extreme Geek]

Trackspotting is the new trainspotting?   :D
It's called track-bashing.  Colouring in, in a rail atlas, the lines travelled.  Guilty as charged.

And yes, Kirst, that line is usually for freights only, but there are occasional passenger trains over it.  And empty passenger trains at silly o'clock.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 19 October, 2011, 10:36:43 pm
Quote from: zigzag on 19 October, 2011, 09:30:26 pm
bad day today, just came back from the hospitals. on my way to work i've tried to avoid collision with another cyclist (who turned right few meters in front of me at the junction, allegedly not seeing me), braked hard, went over the bars.. five broken teeth, broken nose and elbow, grazed chin. painkillers are working, but the future doesn't seem to be bright at the moment.
Ah hell that's bad. Broken teeth - give me a broken arm or leg any day instead of those!

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 19 October, 2011, 10:46:51 pm
Quote from: zigzag on 19 October, 2011, 09:30:26 pm
bad day today, just came back from the hospitals. on my way to work i've tried to avoid collision with another cyclist (who turned right few meters in front of me at the junction, allegedly not seeing me), braked hard, went over the bars.. five broken teeth, broken nose and elbow, grazed chin. painkillers are working, but the future doesn't seem to be bright at the moment.
Oh no, that is awful. Heal well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 19 October, 2011, 11:19:55 pm
Quote from: zigzag on 19 October, 2011, 09:30:26 pm
bad day today, just came back from the hospitals. on my way to work i've tried to avoid collision with another cyclist (who turned right few meters in front of me at the junction, allegedly not seeing me), braked hard, went over the bars.. five broken teeth, broken nose and elbow, grazed chin. painkillers are working, but the future doesn't seem to be bright at the moment.

Oh, you poor thing! That's truly awful. Hope you start to feel more optimistic again soon. Teeth may not grow back but modern dentistry is the next best thing.

And Kirst, I'm sorry to hear about your fright. That can't have been at all nice.

I now feel guilty about the fact that I came on here to post about what a lovely ride home I had tonight. With a clear sky and the moon already gone down, I got an amazing view of the stars. And Jupiter, shining like a beacon.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dinamo on 19 October, 2011, 11:23:49 pm
Used my new light tonight, recently purchased from DealExtreme ( Thanks for the heads up Fab Foodie ).
What a difference it makes from my Cateye, lights up my way along the dark lanes leading to Portbury Dock.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 20 October, 2011, 07:08:46 am
Quote from: Dinamo on 19 October, 2011, 11:23:49 pm
Used my new light tonight, recently purchased from DealExtreme ( Thanks for the heads up Fab Foodie ).
What a difference it makes from my Cateye, lights up my way along the dark lanes leading to Portbury Dock.

Which light did you get?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 20 October, 2011, 08:06:51 am
Quote from: citoyen on 19 October, 2011, 11:19:55 pm


I now feel guilty about the fact that I came on here to post about what a lovely ride home I had tonight. With a clear sky and the moon already gone down, I got an amazing view of the stars. And Jupiter, shining like a beacon.

d.
No, that's nice. We need to hear about commutes like that to make up for all the crap ones.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 20 October, 2011, 08:13:37 am
Only a few days ago, I rode 80km or so in shorts, T-shirt and sandals, it was lovely and warm.

This morning required full winter clobber. The countryside was white and crispy and frosty at Dawn O'Clock. Saw a Robin on a fence post. Came over a little festive. Too early for tinsel on the bike?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 20 October, 2011, 09:10:39 am
All things being equal I could do very well without winter, but as we don't get any choice in the matter it would be quite nice if the cold didn't make my legs quite so sore.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil21 on 20 October, 2011, 09:11:52 am
Quote from: zigzag on 19 October, 2011, 09:30:26 pm
bad day today, just came back from the hospitals. on my way to work i've tried to avoid collision with another cyclist (who turned right few meters in front of me at the junction, allegedly not seeing me), braked hard, went over the bars.. five broken teeth, broken nose and elbow, grazed chin. painkillers are working, but the future doesn't seem to be bright at the moment.

Ouch! Commiserations zigzag, hope you get well soon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 20 October, 2011, 09:17:45 am
Pizza weather this morning - deep pan, crisp and even.
Well, not snow but we clearly had a rather heavy frost last night if the state of the verges was any indication, not to mention the large numbers of people scraping global warming off their cars first thing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 October, 2011, 09:35:44 am
Oh nasty off, zigzag!  Hope you GWS.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JJ on 20 October, 2011, 09:57:31 am
Quote from: zigzag on 19 October, 2011, 09:30:26 pm
bad day today

You weren't kidding were you.  GWS
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 20 October, 2011, 10:13:56 am
GWS zigzag, much sympathy.

Cold today but got the clothes right and a very nice run in
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 20 October, 2011, 10:19:52 am
Quote from: Kirst on 20 October, 2011, 08:06:51 am
Quote from: citoyen on 19 October, 2011, 11:19:55 pm


I now feel guilty about the fact that I came on here to post about what a lovely ride home I had tonight. With a clear sky and the moon already gone down, I got an amazing view of the stars. And Jupiter, shining like a beacon.

d.
No, that's nice. We need to hear about commutes like that to make up for all the crap ones.

Conversely, had a bit of a shit one this morning…

My route to the station involves passing through this spot: http://g.co/maps/gndz3

Usually I go straight on and up the hill, but if I have a bit more time - like today - I turn right into Bogshole Lane and take the quieter, longer route. As you can see from the streetview pic, the road is pretty narrow at this point.

As I approached the junction, I put my arm out to signal my right turn. There was nothing immediately behind me so I moved towards the middle of the road. A truck was approaching behind but was still some way off and had plenty of time to slow down if necessary.

As it happened, there was a stream of cars coming down the hill the other way, so I had to wait in the middle of the road. I could hear the truck still approaching and it didn't sound like it was slowing down… I glanced behind me and saw it coming up fast… There still wasn't a gap to turn and there wasn't room for the truck to pass either… I had to shift quickly, into the path of the oncoming traffic, which at least was travelling a bit slower than the truck and had room to swerve to avoid hitting me.

The truck driver braked at the very last moment but would certainly have hit me if I hadn't taken evasive action.

The junction is on a bend, but I wasn't so far round the bend that he couldn't have seen me from some way back, especially has I had my rear light on, in blink mode. I reckon he had just assumed he'd be able to squeeze past me without slowing down.

Fucking terrifying. And I'm lucky it was only cars coming the other way, not a truck or a bus.

I just wish I'd had the presence of mind to get his number.  >:(

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 20 October, 2011, 10:25:01 am
Oh yeah, and it was bloody cold and I wore mitts, so I had third-degree frostbite* in my fingers by the time I reached the station.

d.

*may contain slight traces of exaggeration
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 20 October, 2011, 10:40:25 am
Very nasty Ziggers.

I feel so sorry for you. 5 broken teeth!!!!!!! Bloody awful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 20 October, 2011, 10:44:20 am
Decided to increase my half-mile commute into a seven-miler this morning. Reasonably pleasant half-hour ride.

One has to be careful with that low sun doesn't one?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 October, 2011, 10:45:26 am
Steady, old chap!  Seven miles?  That's practically an audax! ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 20 October, 2011, 10:47:16 am
< two-fingered smiley >  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 20 October, 2011, 11:30:09 am
Hell, ZigZag, that's awful.  Hope you make a speedy recovery (and havea good dentist).  Where did it happen? 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gattopardo on 20 October, 2011, 11:54:35 am
Recently have been wandering round london on rush hour times on the bike.  The routes have benn from woolwich ferry via greenwich over the river at tower bridge and then to Islington....well the end of the essex road.

I have noticed a few things:

- When I drive I take pride in do it well.  Taking corners with maximum visability, good road positioning and generally being able to keep with in the road markings.  This seems quite hard to do, as well as taking a corner, bend or curve and steering.

- cyclists under taking when I'm in the primary position, do they not seem to understand why I'm in that position.  This is not occassional but quite regular even to the point of getting contact from people trying to avoid the curb or a drain grate.

- cyclists riding between two people.  Say I was overtaking giving the other cyclist an arm widths space so not to be too close and then someone will pass between the two.  Also undertaking whilst coming up to a bus and then cut you up to go pass a stopped bus.

- Lady cyclists whom seem to be quite timid and get afraid from other cyclists.  The road positioning that they take seems to be quite timid and people seem to take quite a few liberties and some cyclists really take the mickey and seem to take pleasure in scaring them.

-Other cyclists drafting behind or sitting in a blind spot. Sometimes it makes it quite difficult to make an avoidance move as I have had a cyclists go in to the back of my bike.

Wow 4 days of 10 miles each way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 20 October, 2011, 12:21:01 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 20 October, 2011, 11:30:09 am
Hell, ZigZag, that's awful.  Hope you make a speedy recovery (and havea good dentist).  Where did it happen?

this happened around 9:10am near finsbury square, i was on city road going from moorgate towards old street, green light, speed 13-15mph. the other cyclist turned right to chiswell street, few meters in front of me. how he could not see me in broad daylight - i have no idea. no cars on the road in front or behind me, i was going in the primary of the first lane.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 20 October, 2011, 12:37:39 pm
 :(
Heal swiftly ZigZag.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 20 October, 2011, 05:35:55 pm
Quote from: zigzag on 20 October, 2011, 12:21:01 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 20 October, 2011, 11:30:09 am
Hell, ZigZag, that's awful.  Hope you make a speedy recovery (and havea good dentist).  Where did it happen?

this happened around 9:10am near finsbury square, i was on city road going from moorgate towards old street, green light, speed 13-15mph. the other cyclist turned right to chiswell street, few meters in front of me. how he could not see me in broad daylight - i have no idea. no cars on the road in front or behind me, i was going in the primary of the first lane.

I think, sad to say, there are some cyclists who simply don't pay much attention to what's gouing on around them. Very sad that you should end up in this state as a result - will you be taking any action (if he is a LCC or CTC member he will be insured)?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 20 October, 2011, 07:57:23 pm
<checks calendar>

That's strange - no mention of International Lemmings Day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dinamo on 20 October, 2011, 08:14:19 pm
Quote from: tonycollinet on 20 October, 2011, 07:08:46 am
Quote from: Dinamo on 19 October, 2011, 11:23:49 pm
Used my new light tonight, recently purchased from DealExtreme ( Thanks for the heads up Fab Foodie ).
What a difference it makes from my Cateye, lights up my way along the dark lanes leading to Portbury Dock.

Which light did you get?

One of these ........
http://www.dealextreme.com/p/t6-waterproof-xml-t6-3-mode-1200-lumen-white-led-bike-light-with-battery-pack-set-82510
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 21 October, 2011, 06:26:33 am
That does look like amazing value.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 21 October, 2011, 08:01:27 am
Much warmer today, very pleasant, could do with the wiggle man coming today though, I'm missing my mud guards.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 21 October, 2011, 08:40:55 am
Clarrers will be pleased for me. 10 miles today.

Far fewer cars around. Maybe it's Friday. Maybe it's the time of day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 21 October, 2011, 09:59:28 am
Had to get to Pudding Mill Lane for an Olympic park tour, so came in on the train, after putting some flat pedals on the hack fixie so I could ride it to the station in smartish clothes.
A lovely crisp, bright morning to be out, shame I could only do a couple of miles .
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ajc on 21 October, 2011, 11:41:42 am
ZigZag really sorry to hear about your off, GWS, brought back memories of a broken jaw and the dentist sending electric currents through my teeth to see if I could feel anything. I hope you heal swiftly.

Thank you to the young roadie last night who ripped the legs off me, I tried to get all the excuses in before he ramped it up, i.e I've ridden everyday, I've ridden the fixie, my legs are tired, i've not eaten enough, its a really heavy rucksack ......I couldn't think of any more  !   

This morning, I flew in, (in my head anyway) actually drafted then overtook cars not sure if I was quick or they were slow but it felt fantastic, I was a sweaty mess when I got to work ! (that would be a nice image for you all  ;D  )



Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Juan Martín on 21 October, 2011, 12:49:15 pm
A bit of a long shot but:

Found! A rather nice pair of cycling gloves on the train this morning. Feasible glove type/destination combo guarantees reply and hopefully return.

(Otherwise I'll try to tie up with the bloke on Monday morning - we all tend to sit in the same seats day after day :()
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 21 October, 2011, 01:06:30 pm
This week has been a week of complete Fail.

Due to work commitments and meetings I have had to drive each day and will be driving home tonight :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 21 October, 2011, 01:07:52 pm
Quote from: fuzzy on 21 October, 2011, 01:06:30 pm
This week has been a week of complete Fail.

Due to work commitments and meetings I have had to drive each day and will be driving home tonight :-[
Yeah I hate it when work gets in the way of the important stuff as well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 21 October, 2011, 07:47:25 pm
Ten miles on the a64 draughting a tractor
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 22 October, 2011, 12:41:51 am
Don't think I ate enough during the day so felt a bit feeble on the post-work ride. Stopped off in Waitrose for some snacks before getting on the train - came away with a bottle of beer, a pork pie and a bag of Haribo…

The final 12km ride home from the station was a bit sluggish.  :sick:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 22 October, 2011, 09:03:39 am
Fabulously chilled out ride in this morning. Only cyclist out there this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: NeilP on 22 October, 2011, 08:58:38 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 22 October, 2011, 12:41:51 am
Don't think I ate enough during the day so felt a bit feeble on the post-work ride. Stopped off in Waitrose for some snacks before getting on the train - came away with a bottle of beer, a pork pie and a bag of Haribo…

The final 12km ride home from the station was a bit sluggish.  :sick:

d.

Mmm, pork pie, got to be my favourite "bad" food  :D  Ride into Oxford was v. quiet this morning but, then again, it always is  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 23 October, 2011, 12:59:20 am
Reached the end of my first week commuting since August. It's been fairly civilized all week (although on Monday I had a claim for three hundred pounds of BMW mirror made against me). On the occasions I've had to give a shout to make people aware of my presence I've received a cheery acknowledgment back. This morning it took barely twenty minutes to cover eight miles through London, dabbing only twice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 23 October, 2011, 08:50:51 am
What happened with the mirror incident, Ben?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 23 October, 2011, 02:50:34 pm
Quote from: benborp on 23 October, 2011, 12:59:20 am
This morning it took barely twenty minutes to cover eight miles through London, dabbing only twice.
You averaged 24mph through london? Bloody hell, you are quick.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 23 October, 2011, 06:37:48 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 23 October, 2011, 02:50:34 pm
Quote from: benborp on 23 October, 2011, 12:59:20 am
This morning it took barely twenty minutes to cover eight miles through London, dabbing only twice.
You averaged 24mph through london? Bloody hell, you are quick.

He is very very quick.  Often at 30mph or over in his videos, and repeatedly and for relatively long durations.  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 23 October, 2011, 06:44:47 pm
Came across a (I think drunk) lady who fell over in the road, who didn't really want help and defo not the police help we got her.  I think I might put the video up, but only because the impatient c0ck of a driver who couldn't wait for us to get up up and out of the road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 24 October, 2011, 12:19:21 am
Quote from: Wendy on 23 October, 2011, 08:50:51 am
What happened with the mirror incident, Ben?

The driver cut across a bus lane I was in with other cyclists on my inside. I dropped my hand off the handlebars and the mirror caught the outside of my wrist. I've posted the video privately and provided a link to British Cycling's insurers in my statement. I'm waiting to hear their response.

As to speed, my route was a shade under eight miles and it took a tad over twenty minutes, so not quite 24mph. On a normal weekday I often keep pace with sensibly ridden motorbikes between Crystal Palace and Elephant and Castle. It's all about the traffic lights - and the school run traffic jams.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 24 October, 2011, 09:50:28 am
Quote from: benborp on 24 October, 2011, 12:19:21 am
the school run traffic jams.

None today. The roads seemed empty all the way through Putney, Parsons Green and Fulham. I love half term.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 24 October, 2011, 12:47:13 pm
I thought today's commute was inexplicably quiet. Then I realised it is half term so no school traffic.  Still traffic on the A473 .  A slightly frightening moment then my chain slipped badly as I was making a right turn across the dual carriageway. There is a new chain ring in the post but for this week I will continue with the worn out one.  I knew it was messed up yesterday when I could not get up a 1 in 12.
Title: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 24 October, 2011, 09:03:27 pm
Attacked at a red traffic light by a driver who objected to me being in the middle of the lane and got out and stamped on my rear wheel. Rear wheel damaged (subsequently repaired). Mudguard smashed.
No more to report as the details have gone to the Metropolitan Police. Allthough I dont hold out much hope of them doing anything.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 24 October, 2011, 09:06:14 pm
Good grief, that's nasty.  Glad you're OK.  And I hope you get a positive result from the Met, though I'd have to say I'm not expecting much more than you are, by the sound of it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 24 October, 2011, 09:14:06 pm
Quote from: Parsley on 24 October, 2011, 09:03:27 pm
Attacked at a red traffic light by a driver who objected to me being in the middle of the lane and got out and stamped on my rear wheel. Rear wheel damaged (subsequently repaired). Mudguard smashed.
No more to report as the details have gone to the Metropolitan Police. Allthough I dont hold out much hope of them doing anything.

Oooh, sorry to hear about that.  Hope you're feeling OK now?

I wouldn't hold my breath on the Met doing anything without further proof such as video or other witnesses, but I'd definitely make a claim for your losses on the driver's insurance.  Make him pay for them, and make his insurance premiums go up painfully as a result of his behaviour.  That'll be a far better lesson than any points or fine from court, IMO.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 25 October, 2011, 10:23:36 am
Back in the saddle at last but G G G G Granville let me know he was most dischuffed by the neglect. He had self harmed during the unattended 10 days in the drying room at work and thrown a patch on his rear wheel.

Initially this evidenced as a flat tyre so I pumped it up (much huffing and puffing and Lezyne thrapping) and then got changed. By the time I was dressed, tyre was flat so I did the tube change thing and found a partially unglued patch. After the huffing and puffing I decided that, as the tube was a Schrader, I would repair it immediately and use the air line at the nick to inflate.

That'll learn me ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 25 October, 2011, 12:43:37 pm
Quote from: benborp on 24 October, 2011, 12:19:21 am
As to speed, my route was a shade under eight miles and it took a tad over twenty minutes, so not quite 24mph. On a normal weekday I often keep pace with sensibly ridden motorbikes between Crystal Palace and Elephant and Castle. It's all about the traffic lights - and the school run traffic jams.
I'm still incredibly impressed. Leeds doesn't have London's traffic density, but even there I've found it futile to attempt to average over 15mph. There is a much faster rider than me who goes along part of my route - he rips away after every junction and light, but I still catch him a mile or two down the road - and I'm only averaging 15mph.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 25 October, 2011, 12:55:23 pm
Last night was a failed commute.  As I mentioned above I have a worn chain ring.  I thought I was going to get away with it for the rest of the week.  I set off from Bridgend Industrial Estate through Coychurch village.  There is a small rise of a few feet that I would not have expect to cause problems but the chain slipped here.  Further on as I turned into the wind that would have been in my face the rest the way home the chain slipped again. I decide not to use the dual carriageway but used the footpath beside it.  I tried to pedal smoothly and got to Pencoed without a chain slip. I turned towards the station and the chain slipped as I approached the level crossing. There was no way I would have been able to cycle the hilly part of my route. So the train was used.

I arrive home in Radyr later than usual (waiting for trains and indirect route make it slower).  The chain slips a bit as I approach Heol Isaf (the main road through Radyr).  I turn on to it.  Normally I would turn off immediately into Windsor road but the hills could not be climbed so I stayed on Heol Isaf my chain slipped again and I realised I was not going to get up Park Road (the bus route) and continued to Maes yr Awel.  This is the flattest option. As I turned onto the short hill the chain slips and slips off the chainring. So I push the bike to the end of the road where google maps does not reach and reappeared on Pentwyn put some oil on my hands and continued home with occasional crunch from the chain.


This morning I am used Pink, White and Blue bike.  I pumped up the tyres, oiled the chain and rode my lightest bike to work.  Slightly late but I needed light to see what I was doing.

 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 25 October, 2011, 01:44:09 pm
Lovely polite driver on the Roundabout Of Death, he hung back really kindly, got a thumbs up. I wish I could make it clear when I'm thanking a driver, I think by the time they're passing me they wouldn't notice my wave of thanks. Maybe a tabard that lit up and said " Thanks!"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 25 October, 2011, 04:28:40 pm
Quote from: Feanor on 05 October, 2011, 09:14:54 pm
This is the time of year that commutes in the country become really special.

Since my commute is quite long ( I only do it 1 or 2 time a week ) I need to leave early, like 06:00.   It takes me through farmland, then forrests, then mountain moorland.   ( The Cairn O'Mount, for those that know it ).

It's at this time of year that my commute co-incides with dawn.   I set of in pitch dark, and the sun peeps up as I ride.

Cyling in deep dark countryside, just before dawn, is something everyone should do.

The smells are deeply accentuated. ( Good and bad.. ).   All sorts of wildlife.   Some known, some un-known.   There are Gruffalos in the woods, I've seen their eyes.  And snakes on the road.  And my buddy saw 2 green LEDs oscillating up and down rapidly in front of him.  T'was a squeasel running towards him!

I've been watching a young pair of deer grow up over the summer.   I first saw them when they must have been just a few weeks old.   Now they are getting bigger.   I see them most times I ride past, usually within half a mile of the same spot.

--
F

How long is your commute?  In hours, and miles please, for full marks  :)

Just curious.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: noggy on 25 October, 2011, 08:00:47 pm
An interesting set to with Mr Fox in a less than pleasant area of town....

I stopped and he stared at me - move on - I want that dead thing on the road-

Magical moment :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 25 October, 2011, 10:00:32 pm
Quote from: Lindagordinho on 25 October, 2011, 04:28:40 pm
Quote from: Feanor on 05 October, 2011, 09:14:54 pm
This is the time of year that commutes in the country become really special.

Since my commute is quite long ( I only do it 1 or 2 time a week ) I need to leave early, like 06:00.   It takes me through farmland, then forrests, then mountain moorland.   ( The Cairn O'Mount, for those that know it ).

It's at this time of year that my commute co-incides with dawn.   I set of in pitch dark, and the sun peeps up as I ride.

Cyling in deep dark countryside, just before dawn, is something everyone should do.

The smells are deeply accentuated. ( Good and bad.. ).   All sorts of wildlife.   Some known, some un-known.   There are Gruffalos in the woods, I've seen their eyes.  And snakes on the road.  And my buddy saw 2 green LEDs oscillating up and down rapidly in front of him.  T'was a squeasel running towards him!

I've been watching a young pair of deer grow up over the summer.   I first saw them when they must have been just a few weeks old.   Now they are getting bigger.   I see them most times I ride past, usually within half a mile of the same spot.

--
F

How long is your commute?  In hours, and miles please, for full marks  :)

Just curious.

40 miles each way.

Peterculter ( outskirts of Aberdeen )  -> Banchory -> Fettercairn over the Cairn O'Mount -> Montrose.

2.5 hours each way.

Some days if I'm time-constrained, I'll drive the flat 10 miles to Banchory and drop the car there, making it 30 miles or 2 hours each way ( 1 hour 50 if I'm pushing on a bit ).

It's not the 40 miles that's the issue: it's the big lump in the middle.
I've done this ride hundreds of times now, and it doesn't get any easier.
Just a bit quicker.

<edit>
I've plotted it on the interwebs, I think:
http://www.mapmyride.com/routes/view/55696680
Dunno if the link works or not..
</edit>
--
F
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 25 October, 2011, 11:32:14 pm
I think you win the award for the longest commute. 80mile round trip!  That's bonkers, I'm not surprised you only do it once or twice a week. Lovely countryside tho'
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 26 October, 2011, 08:04:42 am
Did NOT enjoy that, freezing cold - wearing  3/4's was a bit optimistic and my whole face hurts since riding in the wind on Sunday - think I've got at least one infected ear  :'(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 26 October, 2011, 08:45:04 am
Dry as a bone as I left work yesterday but 5 minutes down the road and things were a tad less peachy. The plus side was that there was a lot of sun on the edges of the rain cloud. As I descended Quarry Wood Lane I started towards the sun but after the hairpin, the sun was behind me, the rain was in front of me and there was the most vivid rainbow I have seen in years, with a very distint twin outside it and I am sure, hints of a third outside that :thumbsup:

Dry deaprt thismorning into cold cold rain again.

'Sonly water and skins waterproof. A bit more lagging might help :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: urban_biker on 26 October, 2011, 09:55:04 am
Lovely ride home last night. Although I'd forgotten how much colder it gets when it rains on you at this time of year - and was still wearing shorts. Got absolutely drenched just as I got back into Denmead , but made sure I smiled manically at every driver coming the other way so they could see how much I was enjoying it  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 26 October, 2011, 11:47:21 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 25 October, 2011, 11:32:14 pm
I think you win the award for the longest commute. 80mile round trip!  That's bonkers, I'm not surprised you only do it once or twice a week. Lovely countryside tho'

I agree, but its something that you enjoy  :D

I went to Banchory for a wedding years back now. Very pretty it was and I climbed this lovely hill.

This morning I was pretty much soaking wet after 2 miles/by the time I got to New Cross. Just before Camberwell the bike started feeling very heavy and my stomach lurched as I realised that the faerie had visited my rear wheel. It's now back in the library and fixed  :)

I think its going to be a lottery with regards to dry and wet conditions today  ???
Title: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 26 October, 2011, 05:53:09 pm
Lack of rear mudguard from mondays incident and being skint till payday means that just as the rain has started, I'm wearing a stripe up my back.
That mudguard was on all summer whilst it was dry.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mr magnolia on 26 October, 2011, 08:23:19 pm
Was mentally too relaxed, celebrating inwardly the successful return of magnoliette no.3 to skool after 8 weeks barred from all life events with ecoli 0157.
Rode into bizarre kerb at the top of the innocent railway tunnel, went a over t and bent down tube beyond usefulness...
 http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c204/mrmagnolia/Snapbucket/41f27584-434f-4b19-953c-d5426fd36387.jpg
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 26 October, 2011, 09:18:28 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 25 October, 2011, 11:32:14 pm
I think you win the award for the longest commute. 80mile round trip!  That's bonkers, I'm not surprised you only do it once or twice a week. Lovely countryside tho'

Yes, it's quite committing.   It's not the same as a 6-mile commute, in a number of ways.

Firstly, it's committing.   If you cycle there, you are pretty much committed to cycling back, regardless of the weather.   There are very limited options for public transport etc.

Secondly, it takes a long time.  Now, that's not an issue on the way in.   You just get up at 05:00, and get on with it.   However, it is an issue on the way home.   I have child-care commitments, and I need to be back home by strict deadlines.   This requires me to leave work at 3:00 pm.   That's a bit cheeky.  I can get away with that once or twice a week ( I'm the senior dude on-site ); but there's a fine line between 'a bit cheeky' and 'taking the piss', where I wave to junior staff who have to man the barricades till 5.

Thirdly, the route can be simply impassible in winter.
It used to be fun doing it in the Land Rover with show-chains, but they put in snow-gates :-(
But even if the road is clear of snow, if it's been down to -16 overnight, the road is icy as hell at 7:00 before the sun has touched it.   You will spin the back wheel out on every power stroke on the way up.  But you will get to the top.  That's just when the trouble starts.   The descent down the far side is impossible.   You simply cannot touch the brakes.   The wheels lock instantly.   You'll be off in 10 seconds.  But it's a steep descent, and you need to be on the brakes.   I've come down this on my arse twice now, and won't do it again.   I have had to walk from the summit to the clatterin brig at the bottom  ( 3.5k ) twice, in SPD-SLs, and with sore arse and elbows.

This year, my winter route will avoid the high ground and take a different route via the Slug Road and Auchenblae.

--
F



Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 26 October, 2011, 10:17:11 pm
Quote from: Feanor on 26 October, 2011, 09:18:28 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 25 October, 2011, 11:32:14 pm
I think you win the award for the longest commute. 80mile round trip!  That's bonkers, I'm not surprised you only do it once or twice a week. Lovely countryside tho'

Yep, beats mine by about two miles each way  :)

Quote
Secondly, it takes a long time.  Now, that's not an issue on the way in.   You just get up at 05:00, and get on with it.   However, it is an issue on the way home.   I have child-care commitments, and I need to be back home by strict deadlines.   This requires me to leave work at 3:00 pm.   That's a bit cheeky.  I can get away with that once or twice a week ( I'm the senior dude on-site ); but there's a fine line between 'a bit cheeky' and 'taking the piss', where I wave to junior staff who have to man the barricades till 5.

That is a big issue. Due to the nature of my work, I'm pretty free and easy time-wise. I can be expected to be on the phone to foreign parts at 6am or 11pm, but nobody blinks and eye if I leave the office at 4 on the days I do go in - assuming the stuff I'd gone in for is done. When I cycle in expecting to be leaving at 4, but end up actually leaving towards 7pm, then the 2.5 hours ride home (for me the commute is on average downhill all the way in, and uphill back!) becomes more of a problem if I'm to actually see the family before they all go to bed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 26 October, 2011, 10:36:31 pm
Quote from: Feanor on 26 October, 2011, 09:18:28 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 25 October, 2011, 11:32:14 pm
I think you win the award for the longest commute. 80mile round trip!  That's bonkers, I'm not surprised you only do it once or twice a week. Lovely countryside tho'

Yes, it's quite committing.   It's not the same as a 6-mile commute, in a number of ways.

Firstly, it's committing.   If you cycle there, you are pretty much committed to cycling back, regardless of the weather.   There are very limited options for public transport etc.

Secondly, it takes a long time.  Now, that's not an issue on the way in.   You just get up at 05:00, and get on with it.   However, it is an issue on the way home.   I have child-care commitments, and I need to be back home by strict deadlines.   This requires me to leave work at 3:00 pm.   That's a bit cheeky.  I can get away with that once or twice a week ( I'm the senior dude on-site ); but there's a fine line between 'a bit cheeky' and 'taking the piss', where I wave to junior staff who have to man the barricades till 5.

Thirdly, the route can be simply impassible in winter.
It used to be fun doing it in the Land Rover with show-chains, but they put in snow-gates :-(
But even if the road is clear of snow, if it's been down to -16 overnight, the road is icy as hell at 7:00 before the sun has touched it.   You will spin the back wheel out on every power stroke on the way up.  But you will get to the top.  That's just when the trouble starts.   The descent down the far side is impossible.   You simply cannot touch the brakes.   The wheels lock instantly.   You'll be off in 10 seconds.  But it's a steep descent, and you need to be on the brakes.   I've come down this on my arse twice now, and won't do it again.   I have had to walk from the summit to the clatterin brig at the bottom  ( 3.5k ) twice, in SPD-SLs, and with sore arse and elbows.

This year, my winter route will avoid the high ground and take a different route via the Slug Road and Auchenblae.

--
F
I don't have your distance to cover (only 25miles each way), and at least have the option of public transport - but not, ironically, in icy weather. Know just what you mean about commitment to getting home - I need to be back to cook dinner most nights. The ice in Leeds was simply shit last two winters. I can cope with the more rural roads - they are either cleared or snowy; I find snow ok with normal tyres. Going to try some studded tyres this winter, but I think they'd be a bit much for 80 miles.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 26 October, 2011, 10:41:20 pm
Crikey, you guys are cycling heros!!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 26 October, 2011, 10:58:33 pm
Quote from: Parsley on 26 October, 2011, 05:53:09 pm
Lack of rear mudguard from mondays incident and being skint till payday means that just as the rain has started, I'm wearing a stripe up my back.
That mudguard was on all summer whilst it was dry.

I feel your stripe.

Sorry, that sounds kinky.

I mean I feel the wetness of your stripe on my arse.

Ooops.  :o ::-) ;D ;)
Take care.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 26 October, 2011, 11:02:57 pm
 ;D  Nice one Gordy!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 26 October, 2011, 11:12:58 pm
Posting whilst pissed as a fart has its advantages.  :thumbsup: ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gerwinium on 26 October, 2011, 11:14:38 pm
Quote from: Gordy on 26 October, 2011, 11:12:58 pm
Posting whilst pissed as a fart has its advantages.  :thumbsup: ;D
It means we know what you're _really_ thinking but are afraid to post when you're sober? :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 26 October, 2011, 11:17:05 pm
Quote from: gerwinium on 26 October, 2011, 11:14:38 pm
Quote from: Gordy on 26 October, 2011, 11:12:58 pm
Posting whilst pissed as a fart has its advantages.  :thumbsup: ;D
It means we know what you're _really_ thinking but are afraid to post when you're sober? :D

 :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tlottrike on 27 October, 2011, 09:03:40 am
Behind me revving engine as I approach tight blind bend he of course overtakes, immediately slows down makes me brake so he can get over the speed bump with his shagged out suspension,  then he turns right and cuts across the bows of oncoming car to come to a complete stop as there are two builders lorries unloading leaving a suitably big enough gap for a bicycle. I pass and shout Huzza! ;D

NB

Car was a BMW 5 Series well past it's sell by date driven by a cock with no passengers/friends, of course.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 27 October, 2011, 09:57:49 am
Quote from: mr magnolia on 26 October, 2011, 08:23:19 pm
Was mentally too relaxed, celebrating inwardly the successful return of magnoliette no.3 to skool after 8 weeks barred from all life events with ecoli 0157.
Rode into bizarre kerb at the top of the innocent railway tunnel, went a over t and bent down tube beyond usefulness...
 http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c204/mrmagnolia/Snapbucket/41f27584-434f-4b19-953c-d5426fd36387.jpg

Aw b******s springs to mind.

I got wet again this morning but, as opposed to recent wet rides where the precipitation commenced after I left, it was precipitating before I left so I was prepared :thumbsup:

Wet rims and roads make for entertaining 'Good Morning Madam's" to stealth dog walkers crossing the road in front of me just around a bend and out of sight. At least she learned that approaching bikes are silent so she should check for visible clues.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 27 October, 2011, 11:22:21 am
Quote from: Gordy on 26 October, 2011, 11:12:58 pm
Posting whilst pissed as a fart has its advantages.  :thumbsup: ;D

You do know that you didn't have to drink all the bottle at once, don't you?

 ;D ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 27 October, 2011, 01:05:13 pm
Quote from: mr magnolia on 26 October, 2011, 08:23:19 pm
Was mentally too relaxed, celebrating inwardly the successful return of magnoliette no.3 to skool after 8 weeks barred from all life events with ecoli 0157.
Rode into bizarre kerb at the top of the innocent railway tunnel, went a over t and bent down tube beyond usefulness...
 http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c204/mrmagnolia/Snapbucket/41f27584-434f-4b19-953c-d5426fd36387.jpg
Only just seen this, what sodding bad luck. Your post is proof of your being a 'real' cyclist; you didn't say a word about your own scrapes and bruises, just the damage to your bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 27 October, 2011, 06:24:29 pm
Quote from: mr magnolia on 26 October, 2011, 08:23:19 pm
Was mentally too relaxed, celebrating inwardly the successful return of magnoliette no.3 to skool after 8 weeks barred from all life events with ecoli 0157.
Rode into bizarre kerb at the top of the innocent railway tunnel, went a over t and bent down tube beyond usefulness...
 http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c204/mrmagnolia/Snapbucket/41f27584-434f-4b19-953c-d5426fd36387.jpg
GWS.  The silver lining on writing-off a bike so spectacularly is that n+1 is just around the corner, and you can transplant all the working bits.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 27 October, 2011, 10:07:03 pm
Oooh.  Sore.

I did the 80-mile round trip ( posts passim ) today, first time for 3 weeks ( been on hols ).
Also did it with another fellow who's pace is about 5% faster than mine.

The combination of a 3-week lay-off and pushing a slightly faster pace than I'm happy with resulted in me being in total pieces this evening.

I'm off for a bath with a glass of muscle relaxant.

--
F
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 28 October, 2011, 09:06:56 am
No Friday legs! :)  But that's probably due to the fact that the only other day I cycled this week was Tuesday. :(

I think I'll probably start wearing my lid next week, mainly because I can mount my Tesco lazer beam of deth on it - perfect for shining into the faces of dozy drivers trying to pull out of side roads into the space I'm about to occupy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smurphboy on 28 October, 2011, 10:57:25 am
Lovely ride into work today. Just a thin layer of mist on The Downs as I went across - just hanging under the trees but off the ground. Of course, when I got off The Downs some of the valleys along my commute were seriously foggy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 28 October, 2011, 01:28:23 pm
Tonight I am going to practice for next week by leaving work a hour late.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 28 October, 2011, 01:30:56 pm
November in a few days and I commuted in a T shirt today, glorious autumn sunshine!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 28 October, 2011, 04:13:26 pm
 :-[ Embarrassed.

The new lighting rig on the Orange Bling was decidedly short on photons by the time I arrived at work today.  I'd stupidly paid heed to the M*pl*n salesdroid's patter, and bought "Hybrid" AA cells, with a nominal capacity of 2100mAh.  On connecting the 20-year-old battle-hardened Multimeter (payment for my first every gainful employment), it suggested that the lamps took 140mA, giving a theoretical burn time of 15 hours.  I also took at face value the statement on the batteries' packaging claiming that they were fully charged.

I've had less than 2 hours out of them.  Fortunately I have emergency lazer cannons for the journey home.  Diversity of Supply and all that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CamPhil on 30 October, 2011, 01:53:33 am
Quote from: rower40 on 28 October, 2011, 04:13:26 pm
:-[ Embarrassed.

The new lighting rig on the Orange Bling was decidedly short on photons by the time I arrived at work today.  I'd stupidly paid heed to the M*pl*n salesdroid's patter, and bought "Hybrid" AA cells, with a nominal capacity of 2100mAh.  On connecting the 20-year-old battle-hardened Multimeter (payment for my first every gainful employment), it suggested that the lamps took 140mA, giving a theoretical burn time of 15 hours.  I also took at face value the statement on the batteries' packaging claiming that they were fully charged.

I've had less than 2 hours out of them.  Fortunately I have emergency lazer cannons for the journey home.  Diversity of Supply and all that.

I had some of those Maplin Hybrids - the bright green ones?
Half of them dead after about a dozen charges, in a very good charger/conditioner/analyser.

My verdict?
At best, well worth avoiding , dangerous in safety critical systems like lights.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 30 October, 2011, 02:55:16 pm
I can't help but wonder if some sort of electromagnetic power source, perhaps integrated with the front wheel, might be the way forward...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 30 October, 2011, 03:00:40 pm
Quote from: Kim on 30 October, 2011, 02:55:16 pm
I can't help but wonder if some sort of electromagnetic power source, perhaps integrated with the front wheel, might be the way forward...
At the risk of appearing ignorant, can one obtain dynohubs with disk brake fittings?  Light is all well and good, but I put the ability to stop without grinding my rims to DETH slightly higher.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 30 October, 2011, 03:15:33 pm
Quote from: rower40 on 30 October, 2011, 03:00:40 pm
Quote from: Kim on 30 October, 2011, 02:55:16 pm
I can't help but wonder if some sort of electromagnetic power source, perhaps integrated with the front wheel, might be the way forward...
At the risk of appearing ignorant, can one obtain dynohubs with disk brake fittings?  Light is all well and good, but I put the ability to stop without grinding my rims to DETH slightly higher.

Yes - SON and Shimano dynohubs are available with disc fittings.
I have one of each.
 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 30 October, 2011, 03:34:39 pm
Quote from: rower40 on 30 October, 2011, 03:00:40 pm
At the risk of appearing ignorant, can one obtain dynohubs with disk brake fittings?  Light is all well and good, but I put the ability to stop without grinding my rims to DETH slightly higher.

(http://www.ductilebiscuit.net/gallery_albums/SMGT/IMG_2202.sized.jpg)

What's not to like?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 30 October, 2011, 06:17:40 pm
Got bumped off by a taxi overtaking through a pedestrian refuge. I think it's all minor, I've not had a chance to look at stuff yet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 30 October, 2011, 06:20:46 pm
Gah!  Glad you're still with us.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 30 October, 2011, 08:21:26 pm
Lawks Mikey! Hope you are OK? Am curious about the bit where they are overtaking on a pedestrian refuge?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 30 October, 2011, 08:52:29 pm
Yeah, thanks loads for your concern guys!!  It was on the top of Bromley Hill, just swerved left into me to avoid the island and deflected me into the kerb.  Google streetview here: http://g.co/maps/dvbps

The spooky thing is that tonight is the 20th anniversary of my Dad's death, got knocked off his motorcycle by a dangerous driver.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Domestique on 30 October, 2011, 09:02:30 pm
Pleased you are feeling alright. Hope the driver stopped etc
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 30 October, 2011, 09:05:52 pm
I'm very lucky to be on such a low bike and landing up on the kerb, it was a bit like rolling out of bed, apart from the hard punt via taxi out of the deckchair that is.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Domestique on 30 October, 2011, 09:07:50 pm
Its odd how you seem to have time to think 'This is going to hurt' before you hit the deck  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 30 October, 2011, 09:29:32 pm
Very glad you're OK - any video footage?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 31 October, 2011, 08:08:50 am
Legs felt like lead today for the first three miles, picked up after that, had to shout at one muppet at brooklands roundabout when it looked like he was going to pull out in front of me, I reckon he'd forgot he'd got 10 feet of flatbed trailer behind him  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 31 October, 2011, 09:23:55 am
Drove half to divest myself of a car (exiting company car scheme), rode the rest. Enjoyed making a few cyclists life a bit better in the first half by holding back etc, but enjoyed the second half more.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 01 November, 2011, 07:30:28 am
My brand new shimano ultegra chain (fitted by LBS as part of a service) broke after only 18 miles on my extended commute, cost £19 for a taxi to get me to work and another £5 for my london LBS to put in a new link, so I didn't have to walk the 3 miles to Liverpool st station  :demon: :demon: :demon: :demon: :demon: :demon: :demon: :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 01 November, 2011, 07:34:56 am
Quote from: Andyf on 01 November, 2011, 07:30:28 am
My brand new shimano ultegra chain (fitted by LBS as part of a service) broke after only 18 miles on my extended commute, cost £19 for a taxi to get me to work and another £5 for my london LBS to put in a new link, so I didn't have to walk the 3 miles to Liverpool st station  :demon: :demon: :demon: :demon: :demon: :demon: :demon: :sick:

Is why most people carry a chain tool and spare power link.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 01 November, 2011, 07:57:12 am
Really enjoyed the ride in today after taking a bit of getting going, nice and warm with a cracking false dawn, only slightly marred by a stupidly close pass from a berk-inna-merc, but that just par for the course innit?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 01 November, 2011, 09:12:22 am
Quote from: Wendy on 01 November, 2011, 07:34:56 am
Quote from: Andyf on 01 November, 2011, 07:30:28 am
My brand new shimano ultegra chain (fitted by LBS as part of a service) broke after only 18 miles on my extended commute, cost £19 for a taxi to get me to work and another £5 for my london LBS to put in a new link, so I didn't have to walk the 3 miles to Liverpool st station  :demon: :demon: :demon: :demon: :demon: :demon: :demon: :sick:

Is why most people carry a chain tool and spare power link.

Spare chain link allready purchased, chain tool research will be looked into today (I have an 80 mile London-Brighton-RedHill planned on saturday)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 01 November, 2011, 09:17:32 am
I'd demand a new chain from that lbs if I were you. Breaking after 18miles sounds like they didn't fit a rivet properly.

This tool is pretty good:
http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=7843 (http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=7843)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 01 November, 2011, 09:37:12 am
Very impressive skills from the woman cycling the other direction to me - a pigeon flew across the road and right into her face! She was going at a fair clip and managed to keep her balance.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 01 November, 2011, 10:17:13 am
I did not take a bus.

7annahalf  km.

Lovely.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 01 November, 2011, 10:27:34 am
Not taking a bus is a lovely feeling.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 01 November, 2011, 10:37:28 am
And three different teachers and two admin people all went 'Hurray!' (or similar) when they clocked that I was carrying the panniers into school and therefore hadn't come on the bus.

Which is in fact every member of staff that I've seen so far!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 01 November, 2011, 10:45:17 am
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 01 November, 2011, 10:17:13 am
I did not take a bus.

7annahalf  km.

Lovely.
Epic!
Now don't knacker your elbow carrying the panniers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 01 November, 2011, 10:47:25 am
Rained all the way in this morning, but I didn't care one bit, it was actually quite refreshing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 01 November, 2011, 11:02:36 am
Came across a road closed sign on a local lane today.  They were busy resurfacing the worst stretch of potholes on my commute.   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 01 November, 2011, 11:42:49 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 01 November, 2011, 09:17:32 am
I'd demand a new chain from that lbs if I were you. Breaking after 18miles sounds like they didn't fit a rivet properly.

This tool is pretty good:
http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=7843 (http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=7843)

This is also very good - will happily fit a 10 speed chain too.
http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=2924
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 01 November, 2011, 12:39:02 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 01 November, 2011, 09:17:32 am
This tool is pretty good:
http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=7843 (http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=7843)

That's the one I use. It's on offer at Cycle Surgery (http://www.cyclesurgery.com/timeout-tuesday/content/fcp-content) today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 01 November, 2011, 12:46:55 pm
For the second time in 12 hours,  I anticipated a left hook at the same roundabout. I suppose I shouldn't be in the bike lane for going straight on.
But why did the car overtake with its left indicator on? (Don't bother to answer - it's rhetorical!)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 01 November, 2011, 01:05:29 pm
Out of the dark depths of Limehouse Cut as it passes  under the A12, Blackwall tunnel Northern approach, saw what looked like a cormoran's head then body plopping up with a  glittering fish as big has his head about to be gobbled up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 01 November, 2011, 06:18:06 pm
Did the full 40 in / 40 back today, but with an additional 2-mile detour on the way home because I was riding with another guy who wanted to take a different route over the last 10 miles.  Since I normally ride alone, it was interesting to see the difference in pace with us riding together.   Normally, I average between 15 and 15.5 mph over the 40 miles, slowing to 13 on a difficult day.   But with this guy ( who is a club rider ), we averaged 16.1 over the 42 mile home run.

The clock change has made a massive difference.
The earlylight is appreciated, but it sure does get dark early!
Why don't they just make more daylight hours, dammit.

As I mentioned in Wild Things, we came across a wild flock of peacocks / hens on the way in!

--
F
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 01 November, 2011, 08:07:18 pm
19km by the end of the day!  I came the 'long' way back :)

It amuses me greatly that 19km feels like cause for celebration.  But that means that I've clocked up over twenty miles in the last three days, which 2 or 3 weeks ago seemed like it would never happen again.  I do think that for the moment 10-ish miles is about my limit - I knew about it by the time I got home, and wouldn't have wanted to carry on much further.  Well, actually I would have loved to but my elbow/shoulder/bicep/tricep would have objected rather.

Isn't commuting by bike bloody brilliant!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 01 November, 2011, 08:17:49 pm
Excellent.  I expect your arm will regain its cycling stamina more quickly than you expect.

10-ish miles is a long way to most people.

 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 November, 2011, 08:32:30 pm
It bloody is bloody brilliant!

I'm pleased you are back awheel, but I hope that you don't push it too hard.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tewdric on 01 November, 2011, 08:39:00 pm
Quote from: Feanor on 01 November, 2011, 06:18:06 pm
The clock change has made a massive difference.
The earlylight is appreciated, but it sure does get dark early!
Why don't they just make more daylight hours, dammit.

I don't understand why they don't put the clocks back in the morning but leave them where they are in the evening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 01 November, 2011, 09:39:00 pm
Quote from: Tewdric on 01 November, 2011, 08:39:00 pm
Quote from: Feanor on 01 November, 2011, 06:18:06 pm
The clock change has made a massive difference.
The earlylight is appreciated, but it sure does get dark early!
Why don't they just make more daylight hours, dammit.

I don't understand why they don't put the clocks back in the morning but leave them where they are in the evening.

Variable Rate Clocks!  The Invention of the Year!

They move forward at a variable rate so that dawn and dusk always occour at the same displayed time.   The actual time elapsed varies, so the day stretches and shrinks accordingly.
A fiddle-factor would need to be incorporated to bias it against long working days.  A non-linearity so it runs faster during working hours on an otherwise long day.

I can do the algorithm, and programming.
Let's do it.

--
F
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 01 November, 2011, 10:05:04 pm
That would be Roman time (as opposed to Rome time).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 01 November, 2011, 10:48:17 pm
Does this involve putting in much longer days at work in the summer and shorter in the winter? How would one manage ones work?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 01 November, 2011, 10:50:05 pm
Longer, but the same number of hours.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 01 November, 2011, 10:58:24 pm
Quote from: Adrian on 01 November, 2011, 10:48:17 pm
Does this involve putting in much longer days at work in the summer and shorter in the winter? How would one manage ones work?

No, like I said:
A fiddle-factor would need to be incorporated to bias it against long working days.  A non-linearity so it runs faster during working hours on an otherwise long day.

So the actual time spent at work might vary according to daylight hours, it would be progressivly clamped to an arbritary maximum.

Non-linear time :-) Lurvley.

Might slow the neutrinos down too. Or speed the buggers up.   Who knows.

--
F


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 02 November, 2011, 07:36:50 am
Sounds good to me.  I'd like a bit more fiddle factor.  A bit of stretching for the period of time between getting up and leaving for work.   That bit currently seems to run much too quickly. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 02 November, 2011, 08:28:32 am
A tough one today, that wind was decidely unpleasant but i won't complain too much as long as the forecast holds.  The brain dead merc drivers were definetly engaged in herd behaviour today, "it's ok I must be able to get through that gap/amber light because the gormless idiot in front can"  :facepalm:

I just wish they would attempt to engage their brain, when they cruise past staring determindly(sp?) ahead I feel sure they must be close to permanent vegatative state.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 02 November, 2011, 09:21:40 am
The weather report for yesterday said it would be fine all day.  And it was in Taunton.  But not on the Blackdown hills.  Unfortunately I'd taken my Orbea with no mud guards and going home last night I got plastered
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 02 November, 2011, 09:52:42 am
Friday legs on a Wednesday. 'Nuff said :(.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 02 November, 2011, 12:20:00 pm
I managed to shave seven minutes off this morning, don't know how that happened.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 02 November, 2011, 12:25:51 pm
Quote from: Gandalf on 02 November, 2011, 12:20:00 pm
I managed to shave seven minutes hairs off this morning, don't know how that happened.


I think that puts it in to perspective Ganders.

Here to help.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 02 November, 2011, 12:32:44 pm
First fixed commute since last winter. Delightful. Absolutely flew in (friendly wind, though).

I'm always caught out by how invigorating it is to change bikes now and again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 02 November, 2011, 01:02:33 pm
Quote from: Gandalf on 02 November, 2011, 12:20:00 pm
I managed to shave seven minutes off this morning, don't know how that happened.
I had them! ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 02 November, 2011, 01:22:27 pm
My Brompton felt a bit sluggish as I left the house this morning but I didn't have time to stop and investigate as I was in a rush to get my train.

About 1km from home, I started to notice a gap between pressing down on the pedal and the freewheel engaging. And then 30 seconds later, the whole freewheel mechanism seized up completely, so I couldn't pedal at all.

Had to call out the rescue service to pick me up and take me the rest of the way to the station, but still missed my train…

Haven't looked at it closely but I suspect the sprocket is broken. This has happened before - it cracks then deforms so it comes off its splines and gets jammed. It's a simple enough job to replace the sprocket but it's annoying that these things always happen when you're short of time.

Arses.  :(

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 November, 2011, 02:34:34 pm
Quote from: Butterfly on 02 November, 2011, 01:02:33 pm
Quote from: Gandalf on 02 November, 2011, 12:20:00 pm
I managed to shave seven minutes off this morning, don't know how that happened.
I had them! ::-)

:(  you need more chance to ride that woofle-dust bike. ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 02 November, 2011, 03:29:12 pm
An early finish today after phone call from school:

ring ring

Hello
Hi this Mrs X from school Z. Miss S has come down the stairs and hurt her hand. It's swollen so can you come and get her.
I'm on my way

Cue mad panic to arrive at school 9 miles away in 22 mins from leaving the gate. As I arrive at the school Miss S is coming out of reception with teacher who says "we think it needs an ice-pack and some tablets, keep an eye on it". So off we go walking home with me in lycra and socks (LooK Keo's  ::-) ) and I say "so what were you doing?"
"Dunno dad"
"but your teacher said you came down the stairs"
She looks at me like I'm an idiot, "Dad, I walked down the stairs and told the first aider my hand hurts"

 :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 02 November, 2011, 03:51:33 pm
Quote from: Si_Co on 02 November, 2011, 03:29:12 pm
She looks at me like I'm an idiot, "Dad, I walked down the stairs and told the first aider my hand hurts"

 :facepalm:

but Dad's are supposed to know these things  ::-)

Glad to hear that the damage doesn't appear to be too serious (well nothing an icecream won't fix)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 02 November, 2011, 04:07:35 pm
Quote from: SlowCoach on 02 November, 2011, 03:51:33 pm
Quote from: Si_Co on 02 November, 2011, 03:29:12 pm
She looks at me like I'm an idiot, "Dad, I walked down the stairs and told the first aider my hand hurts"

 :facepalm:

but Dad's are supposed to know these things  ::-)

Glad to hear that the damage doesn't appear to be too serious (well nothing an icecream won't fix)

& I'm gladder than glad
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 02 November, 2011, 05:03:04 pm
Quote from: Riggers on 02 November, 2011, 12:25:51 pm
Quote from: Gandalf on 02 November, 2011, 12:20:00 pm
I managed to shave seven minutes hairs off this morning, don't know how that happened.


I think that puts it in to perspective Ganders.

Here to help.

You are a scholar sir, I am indebted.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil on 02 November, 2011, 09:33:11 pm
Saw the aftermaths of two bike accidents this evening - one on Regent Street that appeared to have involved a bus and looked pretty nasty, and one at the top of London Bridge with a taxi and where the cyclist was at least walking around, if looking a bit sore.  Ambulance in attendance in both cases. 

Slippery roads and dark rush hours do not a good combination make :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 04 November, 2011, 08:23:44 am
Enoch Powell was nearly right.  There were rivers of mud last night.  There was a very big downpour for half an hour before I left my desk but it had stopped by the time I got to the bike shed.  On my return commute I have one stretch of a few hundred metres of gentle uphill.  yesterday there was a mud pool (olympic size) at the bottom and brown water streaming down towards it.  In some stretches there was enough of a crown for it to be clear of the dirty water in the middle, but that was where all the solid crud had been washed up to. Fortunately there's very little traffic and only one car yesterday.  I knew it was approaching round the corner because I could see wash spraying over the hedge.  The driver kindly stopped when she saw me and waited for me to sail by.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 04 November, 2011, 08:28:24 am
I got reminded how painful a faceful of gritty bow wave can be :o

Thank Dog for clear riding glasses.
Title: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 04 November, 2011, 08:51:58 am
Plenty of space in the bike shed this morning.

One wonders if there's a company cycle event somewhere else ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 04 November, 2011, 08:56:02 am
Soaked and dripping on arrival at home last night, ditto at work this morning.  But as it was not cold, it was rather fun. 
Although this morning I went straight to work and did not join the mini flash ride in Camberwell- I had planned to do this and ride very, very fast to school and change clothes at breaktime so I would be in time for my first lesson.  Didn't fancy my chances because of the torrential rain and the need to take some considerable time divesting myself of dripping clothing beforehand.
Strangely quiet on the roads early this morning (motor traffic lacking too) - was everyone else hanging back waiting for the rain to pass, I wonder?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 04 November, 2011, 10:05:12 am
Quote from: Nuncio on 04 November, 2011, 08:23:44 am
Enoch Powell was nearly right.  There were rivers of mud last night. 

Also mud rivers here.  My bike is shockingly filthy
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 04 November, 2011, 12:24:05 pm
Whereas mine is marginally less filthy than before.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 04 November, 2011, 12:40:04 pm
Quote from: Parsley on 04 November, 2011, 08:51:58 am
Plenty of space in the bike shed this morning.

Same here.

Quote from: Paul on 02 November, 2011, 12:32:44 pm
First fixed commute since last winter.

Looks like I picked the right week to swap bikes. I'd have been in tears listening to the grind of gritty water in £40s worth of italian chainery otherwise.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 04 November, 2011, 12:57:55 pm
That was quite a deluge this morning. I really need to get mudguards and also not leave my fully waterproofed jacket out on our roof terrace overnight  :-[  ::-).

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Rimnod on 04 November, 2011, 01:19:00 pm
On this mornings commute I past the 5000 commuter mile mark for the year :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 04 November, 2011, 02:39:02 pm
My commute this morning was Croydon to South Kensington with a brief stop into Epsom!  So, thirty miles before I got to work. :thumbsup:

This was to pick up a CityLink parcel, which now seem to end up in Epsom rather than Morden that was less than half the distance away.  It was quite a fun ride cycling across to there, but whilst I didn't get significantly rained on, the amount of spray sent up onto the mesh underside of the trailer, and thence onto the cardboard box, meant that it wasn't difficult to get into the box when I got home, and in fact I had to turn it over before I carried it in, so the contents didn't fall all over the floor!

... oh and to continue the theme, my normally quite dirty commuting Kaffenback is now incredibly dirty, with all the muddy water that was thrown up, cycling through Beddington and Nonsuch Parks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 04 November, 2011, 06:00:49 pm
Well, that was somewhat moist.
Still, it's not cold yet, is it?  I seem to remember that the big freeze started in late(?) November last year.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 04 November, 2011, 06:02:48 pm
My Marathon Winters arrived this morning.  That should fend it off for a few more weeks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 04 November, 2011, 06:16:37 pm
The surgical wounds in my bum are still healing. I reckon it'll be a week or two until I can sit on my saddle comfortably and go for a good ride. That's when I think we'll get the heavy snow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 04 November, 2011, 06:21:16 pm
hmm. Yes, good one.  I must go and buy some studded tyres.  That should keep the ice away,
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 05 November, 2011, 02:30:42 am
Lunatic trip home. Spied a rlj car just in time to slam on brakes; car next lane over t-boned them. Noone hurt. 400m on, came on aftermath of similar accident. Idiots still pushing through the lights, round the debris
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 05 November, 2011, 11:52:11 am
I'm surprised how many cyclists I'm seeing now with v.little or even no lighting. In my 14 yrs. of commuting the same or similar routes everyone seemed to be reasonably lit but now....
Some character hammered past me whilst I was waiting at a busy junction last night. It's dark, he's in black and he goes thro' a redlight! I've decided now if they get hit by a car whilst doing this I'm not going to have any sympathy and will inform the police that the cyclist rlj'd. Further on I signalled right and moved into the middle of the road and heard the sound of a car revving behind me as he moved into the oncoming lane to overtake me. Had he waited for 2 secs he could have carried on in  a straight line  without changing speed ???
Pedestrians - it's dark, the traffic is queuing and two of us are moving on the cycle lane with a Solidlight and a Lumicycle X3 both on flash mode and one steps out between the cars into our path.Avoided them but it's going to hurt them when two bikes and riders slam into them
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 05 November, 2011, 06:37:31 pm
...and another c0ck tries to beat me through almost the same pinch point that the taxi driver knocked me off last weekend.  Gggrrrrrr! This time I was slightly better at keeping away from him, and perhaps slightly luckier too.  Sometimes I hate Bromley Hill/London Road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 05 November, 2011, 07:40:52 pm
Rode in in the persisting rain, only to get a puncture, and the patch wouldn't adhere. Had a spare tube and cursed my miserliness in not fitting it straight away.

In the pouring rain, good though the lezyne mini track pump is, all the strokes required for 90psi made me start to hate it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: trio25 on 06 November, 2011, 07:55:49 pm
A fantastic commute today in perfect cold and crisp conditions made up for working on a sunday!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 06 November, 2011, 08:31:22 pm
Quote from: DrMekon on 05 November, 2011, 07:40:52 pm
Rode in in the persisting rain, only to get a puncture, and the patch wouldn't adhere. Had a spare tube and cursed my miserliness in not fitting it straight away.

In the pouring rain, good though the lezyne mini track pump is, all the strokes required for 90psi made me start to hate it.

This is *exactly* the reason I have a "carry only new tubes" policy.

When it comes the time to deploy it, it will be be an embuggerance. Perhaps a small one, or perhaps a big one.
The absolute prime directive is to be back up and running with the minimum of faffing.

Riding round the Fred Whitton route earlier this year, one of our number had a visit from the fairy.
We're 100 miles in, and just about to do Hardknott.
OK, so these things happen.
Brings out spare that has more patches than Windows XP!
Whick leaks worse than the original!

So he brings out the repair kit.
We gang up on him, and force a donated new tube on him, with protests that the old one had only done 10,000 miles etc etc.
But for <£5, why would he even consider screwing around with a patchwork quilt tube?

P*ncture on-the-road? New tube goes in. Continue ride. End of story.
The repair kit is there in case of a *second* visit from the fairy.

Sorry that turned into a bit of a rant...

--
F


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 06 November, 2011, 08:50:17 pm
Well, that is a bit of an extreme, but OTOH I feel I'd be irresponsibly throwing away good tubes and wasting resources if I didn't patch a tube at least a few times.  I don't seem to get to much more than 5 patches before I toss the tube for being likely to fall below my standards of reliability, generally.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 06 November, 2011, 10:18:12 pm
No, really it isn't extreme.
100 miles in, in the pissing rain, I can justify <£5 for a new tube.

And standing in the rain, I really don't give a hoot about resources.
Sorry, but that's just my choice.

--
F

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 06 November, 2011, 10:24:16 pm
S'Ok, we all make decisions based on ease and laziness sometimes. A bit like me using CO2 instead of a minipump.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 06 November, 2011, 10:25:41 pm
I have no qualms against patching tubes - no point throwing pointless fivers away - but they need to be reliable.  If I patch a tube, it goes straight on a bike where it can prove itself, not into a bag where it might catch someone out later.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CamPhil on 06 November, 2011, 10:31:57 pm
My patched tubes get hung up in the shed with enough air in them that if there's a problem, it'll show.
They only get carried as spares after a couple of weeks hanging up with no deflation.

I've had a higher failure rate with new tubes than patched and tested ones.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 06 November, 2011, 10:33:00 pm
Do the patching at home, I think that's the point here. Unless you have already used your spare tube or are on a lazy, sunny ride with no one waiting for you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 06 November, 2011, 10:33:11 pm
My patched tubes DO NOT FAIL.
I have had new tubes fail.
I try to inflate all tubes carried as spares and check them under water, once per year.
PS my partner has had so few visits, he is beginning to wonder why he should bother carrying a pump.
Maybe I'm too generous with his tyre quality...
PPS Tyre patching is best done in a warm, dry kitchen, with a good supply of TEA.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 06 November, 2011, 10:39:10 pm
Quote from: CamPhil on 06 November, 2011, 10:31:57 pm
My patched tubes get hung up in the shed with enough air in them that if there's a problem, it'll show.
They only get carried as spares after a couple of weeks hanging up with no deflation.

I've had a higher failure rate with new tubes than patched and tested ones.

Maybe you should inflate new tubes, hang them and test them before carrying them as spares too?


Quote
I try to inflate all tubes carried as spares and check them under water, once per year

I could imagine you, sitting at the bottom of a swimming pool in SCUBA gear, surrounded by innertubes and weilding a pump. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 06 November, 2011, 10:39:17 pm
Quote from: Kim on 06 November, 2011, 10:25:41 pm
I have no qualms against patching tubes - no point throwing pointless fivers away - but they need to be reliable.  If I patch a tube, it goes straight on a bike where it can prove itself, not into a bag where it might catch someone out later.

Right.
That's my position too.

So if I patch a tube, it goes right on the bike.
Not into the bag.
The bag gets a new tube.

Now, follow the logical consequences of that.
It leads *almost* to a no-patch policy.

Here's how it pans out in reality:

P*ncture on ride: fit new from bag, get home.
Replace spare in bag with new, as per policy.
What to do with old?
Patch it and put it back in the tyre, and recover the 'new' tube?
Why would I do that?
Why would I *make work* to swap out and down-grade a *perfectly good wheel* with a new tube?
I simply won't do that.
So the old goes in a heap of other old punctured tubes, and *may* used later, but un-likely.

So the cycle continues.
I don't intentionally run a no-patch policy, but it's an un-intentional by-product of my 'only carry new' policy.

The policy has not failed me yet.

--


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 06 November, 2011, 10:41:34 pm
Quote from: Feanor on 06 November, 2011, 10:39:17 pm
Patch it and put it back in the tyre, and recover the 'new' tube?
Why would I do that?

Yes.

To prove that the patched tube is good.  If it's still holding air the next morning, you're probably okay.

OTOH, If the time taken to swap a tube is worth more than a fiver, then sure, just stick a new one in your bag.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 06 November, 2011, 10:44:11 pm
Quote from: Feanor on 06 November, 2011, 10:39:17 pm
Quote from: Kim on 06 November, 2011, 10:25:41 pm
I have no qualms against patching tubes - no point throwing pointless fivers away - but they need to be reliable.  If I patch a tube, it goes straight on a bike where it can prove itself, not into a bag where it might catch someone out later.

Right.
That's my position too.

So if I patch a tube, it goes right on the bike.
Not into the bag.
The bag gets a new tube.

Now, follow the logical consequences of that.
It leads *almost* to a no-patch policy.

Here's how it pans out in reality:

P*ncture on ride: fit new from bag, get home.
Replace spare in bag with new, as per policy.
What to do with old?
Patch it and put it back in the tyre, and recover the 'new' tube?
Why would I do that?
Why would I *make work* to swap out and down-grade a *perfectly good wheel* with a new tube?
I simply won't do that.
So the old goes in a heap of other old punctured tubes, and *may* used later, but un-likely.

So the cycle continues.
I don't intentionally run a no-patch policy, but it's an un-intentional by-product of my 'only carry new' policy.

The policy has not failed me yet.

--

Pretty much what I do. I end up with a big bag of tubes that need repairing and one day, I repair them and pump them up and leave them a day or so. All the good ones are treated as new. Except for important rides like a 24 hour TT when I only use and carry new tubes because I like them to have lots of PSI which can blow repair patches off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 06 November, 2011, 10:48:32 pm
I like patching tubes, it gives me some considerable satisfaction.  I can't recall when I last had a patch fail, although I'm sure one must have done.  I run 120psi, btw.  Oh, and only proper old school patches (well, cold vulcanising anyway), none of that rubbish instant patch stuff, they are pants.

I have a pile of about 6 tubes that need patching.  Once they're patched and tested, they get rolled up and used as new tubes in the toolkit.  Then I wait and I don't do any patching until I've gone through them all in the course of normal riding.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 06 November, 2011, 10:49:47 pm
Quote from: hellymedic on 06 November, 2011, 10:33:11 pm
My patched tubes DO NOT FAIL.
I have had new tubes fail.
I try to inflate all tubes carried as spares and check them under water, once per year.
PS my partner has had so few visits, he is beginning to wonder why he should bother carrying a pump.
Maybe I'm too generous with his tyre quality...
PPS Tyre patching is best done in a warm, dry kitchen, with a good supply of TEA.
This is true of almost all fettling activities.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 06 November, 2011, 10:51:21 pm
Quote from: hellymedic on 06 November, 2011, 10:33:11 pm
My patched tubes DO NOT FAIL.
I have had new tubes fail.

OK, but that's almost to say that once you've patched a tube, it's better than new, and less likely to fail, and I contend that that is demonstrably false.

Yes, we've all had failures at various stages, with both new and patched tubes.
But let's look at it rationally...

1) New tube : Chance of failure: 1-in-x random-tube-failure
2) Patched tube: Chance of failure: 1-in-x random-tube-failure + n * 1-in-y patch-failure, where n=number of patches.

Simple maths concludes that situation 1 has a lower risk than situation 2, since the patch-failure probability must be >0, and is additive to the underlying probability of random tube failure.

Since it takes actual positive work to swap my 'new' tube back to a 'patched' tube, why would I do that?

--
F
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 06 November, 2011, 11:36:47 pm
Quote from: Feanor on 06 November, 2011, 10:51:21 pm
1) New tube : Chance of failure: 1-in-x random-tube-failure
2) Patched tube: Chance of failure: 1-in-x random-tube-failure + n * 1-in-y patch-failure, where n=number of patches.

But it's not that simple, because the patched tube has been in use for some time and been demonstrated *not* to have an infant mortality failure (unless that's the hole(s) you're patching, in which case you're repairing it).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 06 November, 2011, 11:37:36 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 06 November, 2011, 10:48:32 pm
I like patching tubes, it gives me some considerable satisfaction.  I can't recall when I last had a patch fail, although I'm sure one must have done.  I run 120psi, btw.  Oh, and only proper old school patches (well, cold vulcanising anyway), none of that rubbish instant patch stuff, they are pants.

+1

My box of inner tubes once made a burglar give up and leave the house in disgust....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 07 November, 2011, 07:47:18 am
Quote from: Kim on 06 November, 2011, 11:36:47 pm
Quote from: Feanor on 06 November, 2011, 10:51:21 pm
1) New tube : Chance of failure: 1-in-x random-tube-failure
2) Patched tube: Chance of failure: 1-in-x random-tube-failure + n * 1-in-y patch-failure, where n=number of patches.

But it's not that simple, because the patched tube has been in use for some time and been demonstrated *not* to have an infant mortality failure (unless that's the hole(s) you're patching, in which case you're repairing it).

Yes, you are quite correct.
The probability of a new tube failing in not a simple number x.
There will be a bath-tub curve, and a new tube may well be one of the infant mortality candidates, whereas an in-use tube has passed that point, and is into the bottom of the bath-tub.

Like I say, I'm not opposed to patching.

It's just the where and when.
On-the-road, I prefer to go with new.

--
F
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 07 November, 2011, 08:52:26 am
Well I solved the problem by going tubeless at the weekend on my MTB  :smug:

But I'll still carry a spare tube 'just in case' ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tail End Charlie on 07 November, 2011, 08:57:25 am
My my, it was cold this morning. Had to stop five minutes after setting off to pull my neck warmer over my ears. I could only keep going after that by constantly swearing under my breath as to how cold it was. Will need to crack open the winter gear.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 07 November, 2011, 09:01:44 am
Mild (again) down here in southland, though still windy. Did a large loop to work this morning instead of my usual 2-minute-cycle. 10 minutes cycling up a hill and then 3 minutes coming round the other side. No spills. No dangerous driving. No incidents. Nothink.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tom M on 07 November, 2011, 12:48:29 pm
Well, that was an arse of a commute today!

Decided to do a few things at home first thing before heading into work itself, but took a bit longer than anticipated so decided to take the shorter route.

About 1 1/2 miles from work hit a huge pothole, and whack, double puncture. Did have two spare tubes with me so set about swapping over, but then discover one of the spare tubes has a bloody hole in it right next to the valve, so not really patchable. Punctured tubes are also two huge snakebite slits, so not really a by the side of the road job. After liberal swearing and nashing of teeth getting the newly fitted tyre back on I had at least one inflated wheel.

Well, that's a nice walk through the more 'interesting' suburbs of Wolverhampton with several 'hilarious' comments. After finally getting to work discover that have forgotton to bring any socks or pants! Luckily bitter experience means I at least had some emergency boxers, and was wearing Woolie Boolie socks that are dark grey, so finally made it to the desk after a conciliatory coffee and cake.

Cue trip to bike shop soon for more tubes...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 07 November, 2011, 12:55:42 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 05 November, 2011, 02:30:42 am
Lunatic trip home. Spied a rlj car just in time to slam on brakes; car next lane over t-boned them. Noone hurt. 400m on, came on aftermath of similar accident. Idiots still pushing through the lights, round the debris

Don't believe you saw any of this. It's impossible. Any fule kno it's only cyclists that jump red lights.  ::-)

Or maybe the drivers were actually cyclists trying to pass themselves off as normal people.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 07 November, 2011, 01:07:20 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 07 November, 2011, 12:55:42 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 05 November, 2011, 02:30:42 am
Lunatic trip home. Spied a rlj car just in time to slam on brakes; car next lane over t-boned them. Noone hurt. 400m on, came on aftermath of similar accident. Idiots still pushing through the lights, round the debris

Don't believe you saw any of this. It's impossible. Any fule kno it's only cyclists that jump red lights.  ::-)

Or maybe the drivers were actually cyclists trying to pass themselves off as normal people.

d.


Or normal people trying to pass themselves off a 'cyclists'  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 07 November, 2011, 01:11:00 pm
It seemed weirdly quiet for a monday today. Streatham wasn't even that busy ??? I wonder where everyone was.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 07 November, 2011, 01:11:41 pm
Quote from: Feanor on 06 November, 2011, 10:39:17 pm
So the old goes in a heap of other old punctured tubes, and *may* used later, but un-likely.

I have a big box at home containing assorted tubes of different sizes and in various states of repair. Some need patching, some have been patched. I'll patch the ones that need patching when I can be bothered to get around to it. If I get a puncture en route and have to use my spare, the punctured tube just goes in the box when I get home and one of the patched tubes becomes my new spare. Works for me. YMMV.

Talking of punctures, I've had two in the past few days. My rear tyre was fine when I got home on Friday evening, but was flat by Saturday morning. I replaced the tube over the weekend and then this morning got a puncture on the way to the station. I would have missed my train if I'd stopped so had to keep riding ride the last half mile on a flat rear tyre. Not nice, especially as I was on fixed. Fortunately, I'd remembered to swap out my punctured tube for a patched spare so was able to do the replacement on the train.

These were punctures #1 and #2 for my Marathon Supreme tyres, which have only done just over 2,000km. Shockingly bad performance.  ;)

I would have suffered these punctures whether the bike had been fitted with new or patched tubes.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 07 November, 2011, 01:31:48 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 07 November, 2011, 12:55:42 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 05 November, 2011, 02:30:42 am
Lunatic trip home. Spied a rlj car just in time to slam on brakes; car next lane over t-boned them. Noone hurt. 400m on, came on aftermath of similar accident. Idiots still pushing through the lights, round the debris

Don't believe you saw any of this. It's impossible. Any fule kno it's only cyclists that jump red lights.  ::-)

Or maybe the drivers were actually cyclists trying to pass themselves off as normal people.
d.
I got a big "thank you" from the driver of the car who hit the rlj car. A nice bit of positive feeling about cyclists - he was grateful that I stopped and helped when cars where pushing past on both sides.

This morning . . . . wow, what a sudden change. 11C on Friday morning. -0.5C this morning. I had to wear some socks with my sandals, oh the shame.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 07 November, 2011, 01:35:36 pm
Dear God. Please, I do hope they were mid-calf grey socks!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 07 November, 2011, 01:37:06 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 07 November, 2011, 01:31:48 pm
I got a big "thank you" from the driver of the car who hit the rlj car. A nice bit of positive feeling about cyclists - he was grateful that I stopped and helped when cars where pushing past on both sides.

Now you're really pushing credibility - a cyclist being unselfish and not acting like he owns the road? Yeah, right.  ;)

Seriously, though: well done you.   :thumbsup:

No comment on the socks.

d.
Title: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 07 November, 2011, 01:45:10 pm
After a session on Sunday of
Clean, Loosen, Inspect, Test, Oil, Retighten and Lubricate (hmm, needs an acronym ;) Bit of a mouthful)
I gained 2 mph on my rolling average this morning :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 07 November, 2011, 01:46:30 pm
Quote from: Riggers on 07 November, 2011, 01:35:36 pm
Dear God. Please, I do hope they were mid-calf grey socks!!
Hairy green ones, sagging about my ankles like Nora Batty's stockings.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 07 November, 2011, 01:53:34 pm
Die SockenPolitzei!!!

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 November, 2011, 04:54:47 pm
Good stuff, mrcharly! :thumbsup:  Glad you had the presence of mind both to stop when you did, and help out afterwards.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 07 November, 2011, 06:52:29 pm
Very chilly here this morning. It was the first morning of the new cold season I could see my breath all the way to work. Thick frost along my route, so I was taking it easy, and cyclists elsewhere were complaining of ice. My trip into work usually takes less than 15 minutes, but took 18 and a half this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 07 November, 2011, 09:09:12 pm
Humm.

Have just agreed to a commute in/out tomorrow over the Cairn.
Last time I did that when there had been a heavy frost overningt, I came down it on my a**e.
Ended up walking the 3.35k down the far side.

Also, the road is technically closed at the moment.
They're fixing the Spittal Bridge ( small stone bridge on a 90 degree bend at the bottom of a steep descent from both sides ) where some driver ran out of talent and took out the stonework.   But I'm sure a bike can wiggle through the closure.   Or be forded over the stream...

Going to be bloody cold, I think.

--
F

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 07 November, 2011, 09:30:03 pm
I'm surprised at all these reports of cold weather.

Nice and mild here in Milton Keynes. Very nice ride to work this morning via the river and lake in the autumn colours. :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 07 November, 2011, 10:25:25 pm
New job. Haven't sorted out bike storage, clothes storage etc yet.  Am using the train this week.    :(  Hate it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mr magnolia on 07 November, 2011, 10:58:10 pm
Quote from: rower40 on 27 October, 2011, 06:24:29 pm
Quote from: mr magnolia on 26 October, 2011, 08:23:19 pm
Was mentally too relaxed, celebrating inwardly the successful return of magnoliette no.3 to skool after 8 weeks barred from all life events with ecoli 0157.
Rode into bizarre kerb at the top of the innocent railway tunnel, went a over t and bent down tube beyond usefulness...
 http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c204/mrmagnolia/Snapbucket/41f27584-434f-4b19-953c-d5426fd36387.jpg
GWS.  The silver lining on writing-off a bike so spectacularly is that n+1 is just around the corner, and you can transplant all the working bits.

was on the road to work on the blue (unbent) bike when I paused to wiggle my surprisingly wiggly cranks.  LBS confirmed my fear that new BB needed.  So I am for now bicycleless, but contemplating n+1, as insurance co. have advised that replacement of the 23yo dawes galaxy frame with various additives is worth the £1200 of a new galaxy, as long as I buy it from their wheelies interweb team, or £980 if I take cash...
Its a while since I thought about n+1, so look out for some daft questions arising soon!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wowbagger on 07 November, 2011, 10:59:34 pm
Possibly the ultimate piece of satnav tomfoolery ever.

As I was cycling south along Doggetts Lane, there was a stationary juggernaut whose driver had tried to turn round when he saw the closed barrier in front of him by reversing onto a wet field, with hilarious consequences. When I got there he was busy attaching some towing points to the front of his lorry, awaiting something very large and powerful to try to pull him out. Even with the Rohloff I think the task was beyond me.

Just here (http://www.streetmap.co.uk/map.srf?X=588042&Y=191430&A=Y&Z=120). Technically, although it's metalled, that's a footpath, not even a bridleway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 07 November, 2011, 11:29:07 pm
Quote from: teethgrinder on 07 November, 2011, 09:30:03 pm
I'm surprised at all these reports of cold weather.

Nice and mild here in Milton Keynes. Very nice ride to work this morning via the river and lake in the autumn colours. :smug:

Very mild in south London this evening. I was actually a bit overdressed for it, but my ride was blessed with persistent fine drizzle, which kept me cool. Most enjoyable.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 08 November, 2011, 12:28:53 am
Quote from: citoyen on 07 November, 2011, 11:29:07 pm


Very mild in south London this evening. I was actually a bit overdressed for it, but my ride was blessed with persistent fine drizzle, which kept me cool. Most enjoyable.

d.

Just in myself. Lovely quiet ride through south London on glistening roads. The drizzle was quite refreshing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 08 November, 2011, 01:37:37 am
bugger. I appear to be in hospital tonight. Clipped, i think by a car on the way home. Condition of bike unknown at this stage.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 08 November, 2011, 05:38:58 am
Ouch! hope you are A-OK, but it sounds like you don't know all that much about it. Not a good sign. GWS
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 08 November, 2011, 06:57:59 am
Quote from: Tim Hall on 08 November, 2011, 01:37:37 am
bugger. I appear to be in hospital tonight. Clipped, i think by a car on the way home. Condition of bike unknown at this stage.
Oh no! Hope you aren't too badly hurt.  Healing thoughts for you (and bicycle).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 08 November, 2011, 07:25:39 am
Oh noes Tim!!!! Very sorry to hear that.  Thinking of you!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: why1040 on 08 November, 2011, 07:39:35 am
GWS!  Thinking of you!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 08 November, 2011, 08:23:44 am
Quote from: Tim Hall on 08 November, 2011, 01:37:37 am
bugger. I appear to be in hospital tonight. Clipped, i think by a car on the way home. Condition of bike unknown at this stage.
Are you sure that you are in hospital and haven't been abducted by aliens?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 08 November, 2011, 08:33:39 am
Quote from: jane on 08 November, 2011, 06:57:59 am
Quote from: Tim Hall on 08 November, 2011, 01:37:37 am
bugger. I appear to be in hospital tonight. Clipped, i think by a car on the way home. Condition of bike unknown at this stage.
Oh no! Hope you aren't too badly hurt.  Healing thoughts for you (and bicycle).

Sorry to hear that Tim - Heal soon and hope your bicycle isn't too badly injured.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 08 November, 2011, 08:55:44 am
Tim, I do hope that not too much fettling needs to be done by either the hospital or the LBS.
GWS
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 08 November, 2011, 09:00:05 am
GWS, Tim.

Another mild, if slightly damp, commute.  I love the fact that I'm still wearing shorts and sandals (no socks) in November. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 08 November, 2011, 09:14:52 am
Yes very mild, and very damp.
The coldness of yesterday didn't re-appear.

The guy I was riding with today didn't fancy the Cairn this morning ( it's head was in low cloud ), so we long-cut the hill by way of the Slug road and then south to Auchenblae, Laurencekirk and so to Montrose.

Slightly longer ( 45 miles according to de machine ), and a slight occasional drizzle, but a persistent Scottish dampness.

Much tractor-mess. Roads inches deep in mud in places! 
Bike looks like it's done a cyclo-cross.

--
Ron
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 08 November, 2011, 09:16:32 am
thanks for the good wishes. Cut to head, grazed elbow, black eye and big hole in fridays jacket. Most of the nurses seem to be scottish, so alien abduction unlikely.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 08 November, 2011, 09:17:44 am
Quote from: Tim Hall on 08 November, 2011, 09:16:32 am
thanks for the good wishes. Cut to head, grazed elbow, black eye and big hole in fridays jacket. Most of the nurses seem to be scottish, so alien abduction unlikely.

FTFY :)

Just to be sure, does it hurt when you sit down?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 08 November, 2011, 09:25:05 am
Quote from: Tim Hall on 08 November, 2011, 09:16:32 am
thanks for the good wishes. Cut to head, grazed elbow, black eye and big hole in fridays jacket. Most of the nurses seem to be scottish, so alien abduction unlikely.
Bollocks to all that. What about the bike ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 08 November, 2011, 09:33:18 am
no news about the bike yet. The police have it and will return it this afternoon. By stunning good fortune, one of the nurses on my ward saw the whole thing. I'll get her number.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 08 November, 2011, 09:35:49 am
Quote from: Tim Hall on 08 November, 2011, 09:33:18 am
no news about the bike yet. The police have it and will return it this afternoon. By stunning good fortune, one of the nurses on my ward saw the whole thing. I'll get her number.

Are you sure they're not aliens ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: artyfaharty on 08 November, 2011, 09:42:36 am
Blimey it was busy today, Brixton to City via the less than Super Highway.
Traffic backed up at most junctions and seemingly more riders than usual, strange cos it was raining.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 08 November, 2011, 09:55:52 am
Quote from: Tim Hall on 08 November, 2011, 09:33:18 am
no news about the bike yet. The police have it and will return it this afternoon. By stunning good fortune, one of the nurses on my ward saw the whole thing. I'll get her number.
It's always a good idea to get a nurse's number.

You haven't said it, but I get the impression you don't remember the accident. Is this because it happened too quickly, or you received a bump on the head?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 08 November, 2011, 10:04:36 am
I hope that the driver stopped, you have details, and that there will be suitable consequences to them?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 08 November, 2011, 10:07:24 am
i think the bump on the head is why i don't remember it. I have no recollection of even leaving work. It'll come back slowly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Juan Martín on 08 November, 2011, 10:20:18 am
That sounded nasty! Hope everything is (increasingly) OK, get well soon.

J
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 08 November, 2011, 10:29:02 am
Just keep repeating Tim: "My name is Tim Hall… and I ride a bike. My name is…"

Swift recovery for you I hope, and perhaps, if the driver didn't stop, the nurse-that-saw-everything* might be able to assist the police in pursuit of the driver.








*I hope she didn't peek at your winkie.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 November, 2011, 10:31:04 am
Flippin eck, Tim.  I hope your bike isn't too damaged, and that you GWS. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 08 November, 2011, 11:15:05 am
That sounds nasty and somewhat disturbing. It also sounds like the driver did an offbuggerance. I hope that's not so.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 08 November, 2011, 11:36:13 am
apparently the driver called the ambulance, so there's a gone chance she didn't. About
to chat up the nurse witness.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 08 November, 2011, 11:36:44 am
Quote from: Tim Hall on 08 November, 2011, 09:33:18 am
I'll get her number.

You old smoothie.

GWS. Hope the bike is OK.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 08 November, 2011, 12:35:21 pm
Quote from: Adrian on 08 November, 2011, 08:23:44 am
Quote from: Tim Hall on 08 November, 2011, 01:37:37 am
bugger. I appear to be in hospital tonight. Clipped, i think by a car on the way home. Condition of bike unknown at this stage.
Are you sure that you are in hospital and haven't been abducted by aliens?
Aliens with a good WiFi internet connection?

GWS.  Good luck with the nurse who saw everything (!).  Exactly the same happened to me when I had a huge "off" several years ago.  I think she may have given her details to the police - she came to visit me in hospital to find out how I was.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 08 November, 2011, 12:40:45 pm
Ouch! GWS Tim...
Don't worry, we aliens are the best part of the NHS.....  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Karla on 08 November, 2011, 12:49:07 pm
Quote from: pdm on 08 November, 2011, 12:40:45 pm
Ouch! GWS Tim...
Don't worry, we aliens are the best part of the NHS.....  ;)

Get well soon! 

Be warned, there's a Bunbury family member in the NHS now.  You never know who could be treating you  :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 08 November, 2011, 01:11:46 pm
Sorry to hear of the hole in your Fridays' jersey, Tim!
Hope you heal well and fast and that the bike's OK.
Don't be surprised iffn yer Brian takes aa month or so torecover fully from a 'minor concussion'.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 08 November, 2011, 04:56:47 pm
Right, back home now, via the optician as my glasses were badly bent.

Bike has been delivered by Surrey's finest. It is FUBAR. Rear wheel and seat stays badly bent. I guess that's where the impact was. Handlebars bent. Drop of blood on the computer.  On balance I think I'll count the fact that I'm still walking and talking as good luck.

<slight wobble>

I've got the other driver's details, so we'll see what happens when I send her a bill for replacing all the bits.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 08 November, 2011, 04:58:36 pm
Ooo errr. Thanks for the that important update.

I presume you've contacted RJW ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 08 November, 2011, 04:59:09 pm
OOOhhhh, Tim!  Hugs, man!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 08 November, 2011, 04:59:26 pm

Quote from: Tim Hall on 08 November, 2011, 04:56:47 pm
Right, back home now, via the optician as my glasses were badly bent.

Bike has been delivered by Surrey's finest. It is FUBAR. Rear wheel and seat stays badly bent. I guess that's where the impact was. Handlebars bent. Drop of blood on the computer.  On balance I think I'll count the fact that I'm still walking and talking as good luck.

<slight wobble>

I've got the other driver's details, so we'll see what happens when I send her a bill for replacing all the bits.
Which bike?
Fixie? Or the pink magenta one?

Glad you're well (ish).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 08 November, 2011, 05:20:01 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 08 November, 2011, 01:37:37 am
bugger. I appear to be in hospital tonight. Clipped, i think by a car on the way home. Condition of bike unknown at this stage

Sorry to read of this, Tim. Hope your recovery is swift.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 08 November, 2011, 05:36:32 pm
Fixie. Which the Nice Policeman on the phone recognised as such.

I've only got affiliate membership of the CTC, so no legal cover from them, although I understand that RJW do no win no fee stuff.

And thanks for the continued good wishes. It all helps.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 08 November, 2011, 05:43:37 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 08 November, 2011, 05:36:32 pm
I've only got affiliate membership of the CTC, so no legal cover from them, although I understand that RJW do no win no fee stuff.

They do.
I thought the only thing affiliate membership missed out on was the magazine.
But I stand to be corrected.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 08 November, 2011, 06:04:37 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 08 November, 2011, 05:43:37 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 08 November, 2011, 05:36:32 pm
I've only got affiliate membership of the CTC, so no legal cover from them, although I understand that RJW do no win no fee stuff.
They do.
I thought the only thing affiliate membership missed out on was the magazine.
But I stand to be corrected.
Jurek's understanding matches mine.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 08 November, 2011, 06:08:24 pm
You still have the 3rd party insurance, but don't get the magazine, and don't have the legal thingy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 08 November, 2011, 06:17:03 pm
Oh, that sounds nasty.
Wishing you a speedy recovery.

Tonight's ride home: "The Way Is Shut".

There have been signs warning of a road closure on the hill section of my ride home.
They were going to be fixing a car-shaped hole in a narrow stone bridge.
Now, I reckoned that a cyclist can wiggle past most road closures, and so it turned out to be.
By the time I got to he actual road works, it was only a 2-meter stretch that was affected, and even that was clear since the workmen had all bu**ered off home, so no wiggling required.

But here's the interesting thing: thay hadn't just closed the road 100m either side of the works.  Oh, no.   They had closed the *entire* road for miles on either side of the works, by closing and locking the snow gates!   The *entire hill* was traffic-free just for me!   I ducked under the snow gate at the Clatterin Brig and had the entire cairn all to myself.   All the way up the climb, and all the way down the descents on the far side.

Now, I was getting a little carried away.  But I know the road well, had decent enough lights, and my own personal closed road, and was in high spirits.   What could go wrong?

I came to the final big descent, a long, straight 12% down to the Bridge of Dye.   It's normal to gain as much speed as you can, because there's a climb up from the bottom ( isn't there always ), and 40mph on the descent will see you a fair way up the other side.   So I'm barreling my way down this.   It's now on the dusky side of dusk, and I'm concentrating on the road in front of me in my lights.   Suddenly, in my peripheral vision, I catch a flash up in front.  I sit up and shave off some speed.  Just as well.   What is that?  Something reflecty up ahead..

Oh BUGGER!

It's the snow gates at the other side of the hill.
Closed and locked, barring the way.
In all my fun, I'd forgotten about that.
The Bridge of Dye is held against me.

They are now less than 100m ahead of me, looking very metallic and non-forgiving.
I'm still doing 30 on a 12% descent, in the damp.
Merde, Merde, Merde.

A *very* butt-clenching few seconds of hard braking and I pull up about 4m short of the gates.
<phew!>

--
Ron
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 08 November, 2011, 06:54:06 pm
 This

Quote from: citoyen on 08 November, 2011, 11:36:44 am
Quote from: Tim Hall on 08 November, 2011, 09:33:18 am
I'll get her number.

You old smoothie.

GWS. Hope the bike is OK.

d.

in spades
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 08 November, 2011, 06:58:50 pm
Real Pea Souper in the Peaks this evening - 10 yards visibility most of the way once I had climbed out of the Chesterfield valley; if I was in the middle of the road, it was difficult to see the curbs!
The few motons mad enough to venture out were travelling at sensible speeds - i.e. same speed as I.
Alfine hub behaving a lot better now that it is full of fresh, clean oil.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 08 November, 2011, 07:37:50 pm
GWS Tim.

SmallestCub had a fairly significant off on the way to school this morning, when he attained speeds in excess of the (soles of the shoes-powered) braking system of his balance bike and then had to emergency stop.  Just about flipped it!  Minor bruising to the boy, bike is fine.

On the commute home today I stopped to check a walking cyclist was ok, but was unable to help with fettling his completely non-attached crank.  And stopped to help herd some runaway sheep back into a farmyard.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adam on 08 November, 2011, 07:43:07 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 08 November, 2011, 04:56:47 pm
Right, back home now, via the optician as my glasses were badly bent.

Bike has been delivered by Surrey's finest. It is FUBAR. Rear wheel and seat stays badly bent. I guess that's where the impact was. Handlebars bent. Drop of blood on the computer.  On balance I think I'll count the fact that I'm still walking and talking as good luck.

<slight wobble>

I've got the other driver's details, so we'll see what happens when I send her a bill for replacing all the bits.

If the bike's a write-off, you had a close call.  Shame about your top though.

Hope things aren't too sore (as it were), and that the driver coughs up.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 09 November, 2011, 09:09:03 am
Last night one of the leather straps than attach the carradice bag to the SQR clamp thingy snapped.  I replaced it with a cable tie and continued.  The bag now needs a new strap, a patch and reproofing.  I guess I should do this before winter.

This morning was a real wet one
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 09 November, 2011, 09:42:17 am
A bit of catch-up...

Mon. eve: After Mile End raced a chap on a shiny blue Ribble (though his front wheel could use a few more spokes).  I was going to compliment him on his choice of steed, but the ******* jumped a red light near Bow Church.  >:(  I caught up with him at a red light at the other end of the Stratford one-way system.  He kept staring at my bike while we waited for the light to change.  Yes, I think it's a lovely machine. :) OTOH I don't think he was admiring it but trying to figure out how I was keeping up with him.  I sat on his tail all the way to Manor Park where we parted ways.  I could have passed him, but I was having more fun sitting behind him.  I don't think I've ever seen someone look over their shoulder so often.  ;D

Tue. morn: Managed the 7km (11km) without putting my foot down!  Definitely a record.

Tue. eve: Just after Mile End a cyclist I had passed earlier cranks it up to 11 and gets in front of me, but doesn't go any faster than I had been cycling.  But that was OK, as he acted as a wind break.  :thumbsup:  When we got to Bow Church he jumped a red light.  >:(

Nothing of note this morning, just glad that I'm still commuting in shorts and sandals. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 09 November, 2011, 10:13:34 am
Back in that London today.
Good cycling weather, although I did have on a few layers and waterproof booties to keep the spray from damp roads off my shoes.
On the way in, I was nearly sideswiped by a bimbo in a bimmer (failed to look to her left before pulling out of a side road on the right, which is also just before a pinch point in the road - she looked extremely shocked when I yelled out inches from her side window, although I'd anticipated and braked hard enough that we'd not have actually made contact).
Then there was the dipstick in a discovery who didn't understand that in the UK we traditionally look to the right before entering a roundabout.
And the F***wit in a Fiesta who turned right straight across in front of me, nearly ending up with a cyclist mounted in her door.

And just before the office, I was very impressed when all four cyclists stopped in a line at the red lights. Less impressed when the guy on the far right  swung right across us all into the left hand lane without looking backwards, leading to some choice words being said.

This afternoon I'm heading out east from the office in Hammersmith to do a few calls around Spitalfields and Docklands. Wish me luck!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 09 November, 2011, 11:16:40 am
I had the closest call in a long long time this morning.

I turn left at some lights, one lane on my side, three lanes on other side, narrowing to two. I always stay to the right of my lane, as 150m down the road I pull into the pedestrian refuge.

Did the same as I always do, turn left, look over shoulder to check for cars turning with me. Then look over shoulder again before moving over in the lane.

Looked ahead to see a car in my lane, coming *towards* me. Quick swerve into left-lane.

The tosser was overtaking the queue in the double lane, so they could get to the the rightmost lane at the next lights. Missed a head on collision by a second or two. As they were accelerating hard, I wonder what would have happened if I hadn't looked forward in time? How would they have explained the cyclist-shaped dent in their bonnet?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 09 November, 2011, 12:34:11 pm
Second day of commuting on fixed. Did my 31km route in. Managed not to use the brakes, even down Barrington Hill. Put my foot down twice. I'm finding trackstanding harder fixed than with gears, mainly because it's a bigger gear than I'd normally trackstand in. Going to try for no brakes, no dabs on the way home. Averaged just shy of 27kph, which I was pretty pleased with given the dicking around I did.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 09 November, 2011, 12:36:57 pm
Quote from: DrMekon on 09 November, 2011, 12:34:11 pm
Second day of commuting on fixed. Did my 31km route in. Managed not to use the brakes, even down Barrington Hill. Put my foot down twice. I'm finding trackstanding harder fixed than with gears, mainly because it's a bigger gear than I'd normally trackstand in. Going to try for no brakes, no dabs on the way home. Averaged just shy of 27kph, which I was pretty pleased with given the dicking around I did.

Which way?

Actually, ignore that question - either way down Barrington Hill would be something.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 09 November, 2011, 01:12:35 pm
Quote from: MattH on 09 November, 2011, 10:13:34 am
On the way in, I was nearly sideswiped by a bimbo in a bimmer (failed to look to her left before pulling out of a side road on the right, which is also just before a pinch point in the road - she looked extremely shocked when I yelled out inches from her side window, although I'd anticipated and braked hard enough that we'd not have actually made contact).

I've witnessed the MattH motorist yell.  It's fearsome.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 09 November, 2011, 01:28:59 pm
Quote from: Regulator on 09 November, 2011, 12:36:57 pm
Quote from: DrMekon on 09 November, 2011, 12:34:11 pm
Second day of commuting on fixed. Did my 31km route in. Managed not to use the brakes, even down Barrington Hill. Put my foot down twice. I'm finding trackstanding harder fixed than with gears, mainly because it's a bigger gear than I'd normally trackstand in. Going to try for no brakes, no dabs on the way home. Averaged just shy of 27kph, which I was pretty pleased with given the dicking around I did.

Which way?

Actually, ignore that question - either way down Barrington Hill would be something.

The way down to Barrington. Not brave enough to try it down to the T-junction in Haslingfield yet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 09 November, 2011, 07:00:51 pm
Close overtake by a BMW 2 seater going way too fast in a 30mph zone.
He was not at all chuffed that I overtook him 3 times after that over the next 6km on the way out of Sheffield....  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 09 November, 2011, 07:55:38 pm
Yay - did the 28.5km route home with no brakes and no dabs, despite the railway crossing barriers being down. Managed to average over 27kph too. This fixed business is good fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 09 November, 2011, 08:04:51 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 08 November, 2011, 10:07:24 am
i think the bump on the head is why i don't remember it. I have no recollection of even leaving work. It'll come back slowly.

Hope you're better soon.
It does seem like an elaborate scheme to get the phone number of a nurse, it has to be said. ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 09 November, 2011, 09:29:29 pm
I crossed central London this afternoon, which was an experience as it was in lockdown mode due to the student demos. Lots of roads blocked with lines of police and black helicopters above. The police generally let me through, so I was riding down deserted roads (The Strand, Fleet St etc).  Got a little bit lost around Spitalfields , then spent some time trying to find the right building at Canada Square. I used parts of the London Sightseer route - I knew this audax lark would come in useful  :thumbsup:

A good run back, but lots of stationary traffic going towards Trafalgar Square (all of which seemed to be black cabs).

A total of 96 miles today; didn't quite get the century, but not bad for a working day  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 09 November, 2011, 10:06:16 pm
I've been keeping an eye on travel reports as I'm involved in an event in Waterloo this evening. The TfL website was saying 'Due to large numbers of black cabs traffic is slow moving in Trafalgar Square.'
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 09 November, 2011, 10:09:17 pm
Ah it was for this - Trafalgar Square set for black taxi protest over rogue cab fears (http://www.london24.com/news/transport/trafalgar_square_set_for_black_taxi_protest_over_rogue_cab_fears_1_1121128)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dinamo on 09 November, 2011, 10:29:21 pm
Why when South Gloucestershire Council want to do a survey of the traffic ( which at 7:00 in the morning is stationery ) do they place their 'surveyors' right in the middle of one of the busiest cycle routes in Bristol.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 09 November, 2011, 10:33:14 pm
To make their cycling stats look better?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 10 November, 2011, 02:03:13 pm
More on my crash.

That's me (http://www.thisissurreytoday.co.uk/Cyclist-left-injured-road-crash/story-13808432-detail/story.html) that is.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 10 November, 2011, 02:08:10 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 10 November, 2011, 02:03:13 pm
More on my crash.

That's me (http://www.thisissurreytoday.co.uk/Cyclist-left-injured-road-crash/story-13808432-detail/story.html) that is.

Crumbs, that's scary. Not a good way to get yourself in the paper. Hope you get better with all speed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 10 November, 2011, 02:16:30 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 10 November, 2011, 02:03:13 pm
More on my crash.

That's me (http://www.thisissurreytoday.co.uk/Cyclist-left-injured-road-crash/story-13808432-detail/story.html) that is.

Blimey Charlie, you're in your 50's?  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 10 November, 2011, 02:21:25 pm
Glad to see it referred to as an "incident".

Hope yer bonce heals soon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 November, 2011, 03:18:06 pm
No comments yet...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 10 November, 2011, 03:22:13 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 10 November, 2011, 02:16:30 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 10 November, 2011, 02:03:13 pm
More on my crash.

That's me (http://www.thisissurreytoday.co.uk/Cyclist-left-injured-road-crash/story-13808432-detail/story.html) that is.

Blimey Charlie, you're in your 50's?  :o

That was my reaction too - Tim, I think I've met you only once irl (on Mad Jack's a few years ago) but I would have placed you the right side of 40. Proof that cycling takes years off you!

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 10 November, 2011, 10:22:01 pm
Quote from: clarion on 10 November, 2011, 03:18:06 pm
No comments yet...
There is scope. I for instance am overjoyed to read that the driver of the car was unhurt.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 10 November, 2011, 10:23:04 pm
Oh lordy.
I've agreed to meet someone tomorrow morning at 06:00 for a 40 mile ride in over the cairn, and I'm a whole bottle of red in.

< not the first time>

--
R
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 10 November, 2011, 11:03:07 pm
Quote from: Adrian on 10 November, 2011, 10:22:01 pm
Quote from: clarion on 10 November, 2011, 03:18:06 pm
No comments yet...
There is scope. I for instance am overjoyed to read that the driver of the car was unhurt.

I was pleased that the piece didn't mention whether or not you were wearing one of those things.

Hope the recovery continues and the other outcomes are satisfactory
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 11 November, 2011, 12:14:29 am
Quote from: clarion on 10 November, 2011, 03:18:06 pm
No comments yet...

I'm first commenter. Though I can understand why there aren't any others. It took me five goes to get through the captcha test.

Anyhow, in case you're wondering, the "***" is "WTF", which apparently this paper deems unacceptable.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 11 November, 2011, 07:34:10 am
Quote from: Redlight on 10 November, 2011, 11:03:07 pm
I was pleased that the piece didn't mention whether or not you were wearing one of those things.
I was expecting that as first comment.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 11 November, 2011, 07:43:06 am
Quote from: Adrian on 10 November, 2011, 10:22:01 pm
Quote from: clarion on 10 November, 2011, 03:18:06 pm
No comments yet...
There is scope. I for instance am overjoyed to read that the driver of the car was unhurt.

That wa my first thought.  Why the feck do they always insist on putting that in?

GWS Tim  :-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Old Git on 11 November, 2011, 12:17:22 pm
Made schoolboy error on commute in today on fixie...The rear p fairy visited and on trying to changing tube discovered that 15mm spanner was not in rucksack....:-(

JohnT
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 11 November, 2011, 01:28:32 pm
Went up and down Barrington Hill in both directions yesterday. Coming down it today, my new leg braking muscles were really feeling it, so I let the bike have a run. Did 52kph @ 161rpm.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 11 November, 2011, 01:35:06 pm
Oh I didn't notice you've joined us. :)

I still haven't exceeded 199rpm. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Meegat on 12 November, 2011, 09:33:07 pm
'Temporary surface' :(  otoh... resurfacing! :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 13 November, 2011, 02:48:27 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 10 November, 2011, 02:03:13 pm
More on my crash.

That's me (http://www.thisissurreytoday.co.uk/Cyclist-left-injured-road-crash/story-13808432-detail/story.html) that is.
Why didn't you injure him later....oops.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 14 November, 2011, 08:58:01 am
First commute in ages due to too much work travel. Also first ride on my singlespeed road bike since the spring. My legs hurt!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 14 November, 2011, 09:34:46 am
This morning's commute was rather pleasant, even with the mist.  My fettling of the Orbea last night was successful.  I was surprised how plush the ride felt.  I later realised this was down to rather under-inflated tyres.  I may just leave them like that.

Around Whitechapel things got interesting.  Somehow the should strap of my pannier flapped its way into my rear wheel, wrapping itself between the cassette and spokes as I was travelling upwards of 30kph.  Thankfully I managed a controlled stop and remained vertical throughout.  It took about five minutes to untangle things.  The strap, though a bit chewed, is still usable but the plastic thingamajig on the bag where the strap snaps is broke off.  :(

To add insult to (luggage) injury, at work some git parked their Ammaco Street bike (never heard of them) in MY spot! >:(

Can you tell it's Monday?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: trio25 on 14 November, 2011, 04:57:54 pm
My legs hurt, I think it was more to do with the 172 miles I rode yesterday than the 8mile commute though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 14 November, 2011, 06:58:56 pm
On a fast stretch of the Dereham Road I'm doing 20, it's a thirty limit and a small hatchback is fifty feet in front, a car-based white van overtakes, doing maybe 25, draws about level and flicks the left indicator on, six feet from my offside. I match the speed, we're twenty feet from the left turn up Old Palace Road and I realise he's not going to bail, I drop off speed and raise a hand, palm upwards, the passenger gives me the finger. All deliberate, I reckon. Overtakey brakey then IMMEDIATELY indicate left, delightful. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 14 November, 2011, 07:59:06 pm
Oh, Botheration.

After yesterday's 200k, I was hoping to hold off on a commute till later in the week.
But the guy i've been riding in with, it's his last day in Montrose tomorrow, so I've just agreed to a commute tomorrow.

--
Ron

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ajc on 14 November, 2011, 10:28:13 pm
I've been riding my fixie for a few weeks now, I was dropping down Hollins Hill tonight on the fixie which is a fairly steep hill, when my chain jumped off and wrapped itself round the rear wheel and crank. I was doing around 20-25mph, its a fast road, I'm not sure how far I skidded, but there was one hell of a smell of burning rubber. I'm quite impressed that I managed to hold the bike upright going down hill with the back wheel locked, the crank locked and only the front brake working. I thought a couple of times I was going to lose it, but didn't and managed to unclip and get my foot on the floor as I stopped.

The chain was in a right state, I had to remove the wheel and sort the chain out. I rode the last 6 miles very carefully !

I suspect the chain had got a bit loose, it didn't sound smooth and as I tried to slow down using my legs going over the steepest part of the hill, it jumped and thats not good on a fixie.
 
I think I will use the geared bike tomorrow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JJ on 14 November, 2011, 10:35:26 pm
I broke a rule today and jeered at a driver.  As I signaled to move into the right lane behind a van and before a roundabout (Lammas Land for those who know it), he accelerated and tried to block me.  I moved anyway but he revved it and undertook me just before the junction.......only to stop in the traffic jam at the exit of same.  I laughed, gave him thumbs up and called him a berk. I should know better at my age :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 14 November, 2011, 10:59:49 pm
Quote from: ajc on 14 November, 2011, 10:28:13 pm
I've been riding my fixie for a few weeks now, I was dropping down Hollins Hill tonight on the fixie which is a fairly steep hill, when my chain jumped off and wrapped itself round the rear wheel and crank. I was doing around 20-25mph, its a fast road, I'm not sure how far I skidded, but there was one hell of a smell of burning rubber. I'm quite impressed that I managed to hold the bike upright going down hill with the back wheel locked, the crank locked and only the front brake working. I thought a couple of times I was going to lose it, but didn't and managed to unclip and get my foot on the floor as I stopped.

The chain was in a right state, I had to remove the wheel and sort the chain out. I rode the last 6 miles very carefully !

I suspect the chain had got a bit loose, it didn't sound smooth and as I tried to slow down using my legs going over the steepest part of the hill, it jumped and thats not good on a fixie.
 
I think I will use the geared bike tomorrow.

Check your bike carefully, when I did that I found I had bent the whole rear triangle of chain and seat stays sideways.

Well done on staying upright.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 14 November, 2011, 11:50:15 pm
first commute on a bike after a months' break :thumbsup:. cycled with one hand on the bars most of the time as my other arm is still erm.. broken.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 15 November, 2011, 12:12:11 am
Quote from: zigzag on 14 November, 2011, 11:50:15 pm
first commute on a bike after a months' break :thumbsup:. cycled with one hand on the bars most of the time as my other arm is still erm.. broken.

Excellent! (well apart from the broken arm)

In other news, I cycled home today, remembered all of it and didn't wake up to a lovely nurse sewing my forehead up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 15 November, 2011, 05:42:35 am
Going through Horley (Hi Tim!) I crested the rise by the railway station and as the rodad swang right I could 'feel' the car trying to overtake. Stationary queue of traffic two car lengths ahead, right hand bend with obstructed vision, oncoming traffic. Enough said. I held primary.

Lights change, queue moves, but amber as I arrive so I stop in the ASL, indicating to go left, and a bonnet appears on my right, left hand indicator going. So, we are about to turn left, with a traffic island as a pinch point both at the ASL and at the turning, and he's going to overtake me on the bend. A 4x4, of course, but this one was towing a car trailer, a four-wheeled job. I think people can see the issues there.

I looked away and shook my head. BEEP!

"Waht you shaking your head at me for?"

"Well, you are actually breaking the law"

"Am I ? How?"

"This bit is illegal for you to pull into"

"Oh really? I never knew that"

With that, of course, he pulled forward to show how large his penis was.

"Don't care how much you shake your head, you wanker, not going to make no difference"

"No, you're right there, you'll clearly still drive badly"

I s;ightly illegally pulled forward over the line to amke sure I was in front of him, as the option of hugging the curve would have meant being taken out by the trailer, and held primary through tthe turn and past the door zone of some parked cars, but I got the horn and the punishment overtake, of course. Cheery wave back...

He's right. MAC. There is nothing anyone can do to make tossers like him any better on the road, nothing at all. If I had been less assertive, I'd have been under the wheels of his trailer.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 15 November, 2011, 08:33:40 am
I have a commute again, after 7 weeks enjoying gainful unemployment.  The good bits are:
[li]The possible routes are all significantly faster than my old commute (20 to 25 minutes).
[/li][/list]

Now I just have to get used to the much higher density of numpties.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 15 November, 2011, 08:43:06 am
Quote from: Steph on 15 November, 2011, 05:42:35 am
He's right. MAC. There is nothing anyone can do to make tossers like him any better on the road, nothing at all. If I had been less assertive, I'd have been under the wheels of his trailer.

Oooh, that's frustrating!!  Did you get his number and report him to SMART (Surrey's answer to Roadsafe)?

http://www.drivesmartsurrey.org.uk/contact.asp

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ajc on 15 November, 2011, 09:52:44 am
Thanks Matthew I will have to re-check it all.

I rode the geared bike in today, its the first time ever that I didn't put my foot down once for the whole 23 mile commute through Leeds.
I did stop at traffic lights or rather coasted to them so that I was ready to go when they changed, so I'm quite pleased with that !
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 15 November, 2011, 09:54:22 am
Not me but my son.

It was his first 'commute' to school today by bike.

[/proud father]
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 15 November, 2011, 10:18:37 am
Last night, I had a blinding ride home.

(drizzle+eye protectors+no windshield wipers + oncoming lights = can't see nuffink)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 15 November, 2011, 10:20:11 am
Quote from: PaulF on 15 November, 2011, 09:54:22 am
Not me but my son.

It was his first 'commute' to school today by bike.

[/proud father]
Fantastic !!!    How far ?

(And how many cars did he slap, taxi drivers did he swear at, left hooks did he encounter ?)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 15 November, 2011, 10:22:53 am
It was very foggy in places this morning. Not your pretentious wannabe mist mind you, but Proper Thick fog, visibility 50m or less.

I noticed an inverse rule. Whereas in clear weather, you see quite a few cars with fog lights on (mostly boys who've graduated from Colin McRae Rally 4 on XBox 360), in foggy weather you see as many cars with no frikkin lights on at all!  :facepalm:. This is a Bad Thing when they are driving white, silver or grey cars because they really are invisible until they are right on you.

I was also amused by some kids waiting for the school bus. I've done the parent thing - and I get the "No Coat" rule. It's not cool. And in fairness - it wasn't that cold in the fog, probably around 5c. But watching a bunch of early-teens, standing around in their shirt and ties, and skirts/trousers - shivering and complaining, was just hilarious. You still don't look cool - you just look stupid.

Oh and talking of school buses. I wonder if the enormously fat rep-o-like driving the Merc straight at me as he overtook the school bus, in the fog, doing at least 60mph (without lights, natch) had any idea whatsoever what a twat he is?

Hmm... Just read this back. I should take it over here to the rant thread I guess.... ---->
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 15 November, 2011, 11:03:34 am
Quote from: Chris S on 15 November, 2011, 10:22:53 am

Oh and talking of school buses. I wonder if the enormously fat rep-o-like driving the Merc straight at me as he overtook the school bus, in the fog, doing at least 60mph (without lights, natch) had any idea whatsoever what a twat he is?

I think the answer is No?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 15 November, 2011, 11:13:31 am
Quote from: hatler on 15 November, 2011, 10:20:11 am
Quote from: PaulF on 15 November, 2011, 09:54:22 am
Not me but my son.

It was his first 'commute' to school today by bike.

[/proud father]
Fantastic !!!    How far ?

(And how many cars did he slap, taxi drivers did he swear at, left hooks did he encounter ?)

Only about 2 miles, and fortunately no incidents :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 15 November, 2011, 01:08:25 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 15 November, 2011, 08:43:06 am
Quote from: Steph on 15 November, 2011, 05:42:35 am
He's right. MAC. There is nothing anyone can do to make tossers like him any better on the road, nothing at all. If I had been less assertive, I'd have been under the wheels of his trailer.

Oooh, that's frustrating!!  Did you get his number and report him to SMART (Surrey's answer to Roadsafe)?

http://www.drivesmartsurrey.org.uk/contact.asp

Ooh! I shall bookmark that one!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Russell on 15 November, 2011, 01:34:12 pm
Tim, just seen the photos of Sunday's ride and your new face paint and then found your comments here.   Rachel and I were sorry to hear of your accident and glad that it was not worse.  It's good that you are back on the bike. 

She is doing well and we hope to see you soon.

R
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 15 November, 2011, 02:27:16 pm
Nippy this morning. No more commuting in short sleeves. There goes the cyclists tan.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 15 November, 2011, 02:31:36 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 15 November, 2011, 02:27:16 pm
Nippy this morning. No more commuting in short sleeves. There goes the cyclists tan.

Mine lasts all year now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 15 November, 2011, 04:29:38 pm
First commute in some time without a trailer in tow. Oh, the acceleration. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 15 November, 2011, 06:07:33 pm
I came across young man with his legs and arms covered in blood on the way home - way out down some deserted lanes in the near dark. I stopped and he explained, loudly, that he was a self-harmer. He also showed me the empty packet of paracetemols that he'd just eaten. I'd actually seen a slow ambulance a few minutes previously - I phoned 999 and they said they were already looking for him (he'd called in himself but didn't know where he was.) I was able to give proper directions, we walked towards town a bit (me keeping my bike between us) and a police car and ambulance soon found us.

The police officers knew him by his first name and were extremely careful about searching him until they found his razor blade. The guy was shouting that he wanted to be sectioned.

I got a thank-you-thumbs-up from an officer, so I left them to it and rode homewards, counting my blessings.

Sad.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 15 November, 2011, 06:27:02 pm
Quote from: Gordy on 15 November, 2011, 06:07:33 pm
I came across young man with his legs and arms covered in blood on the way home - way out down some deserted lanes in the near dark. I stopped and he explained, loudly, that he was a self-harmer. He also showed me the empty packet of paracetemols that he'd just eaten. I'd actually seen a slow ambulance a few minutes previously - I phoned 999 and they said they were already looking for him (he'd called in himself but didn't know where he was.) I was able to give proper directions, we walked towards town a bit (me keeping my bike between us) and a police car and ambulance soon found us.

The police officers knew him by his first name and were extremely careful about searching him until they found his razor blade. The guy was shouting that he wanted to be sectioned.

I got a thank-you-thumbs-up from an officer, so I left them to it and rode homewards, counting my blessings.

Sad.

You prove once again you are a good man, Gordy. (ETA, not that you needed to, we all know it :) )

I agree it is very sad, but the best the police will do is keep him in over night then send him home....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 15 November, 2011, 07:00:11 pm
The new Maxx-D got it's first outing this evening, on the commute home.
A 'proper dark' up-and-over the Cairn o'Mount.

I had it on the 'Medium' setting for the slower stuff, and turned it up to 11 for the descents.

I have to report, it is awesome.
The descents become do-able at speed.

The back lanes which are pitch-dark are illuminated almost in the manner of a car.

Happy Bunny.

--
Ron


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 15 November, 2011, 07:12:13 pm
Came up against a numpty with a pair of magicshines on full blast on a country lane.  My feelings on the matter were expressed without reservation.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 15 November, 2011, 08:24:52 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 15 November, 2011, 02:31:36 pm

Mine lasts all year now.

You do have to take care over the dosage with Viagra.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 15 November, 2011, 08:29:14 pm
Quote from: DrMekon on 15 November, 2011, 07:12:13 pm
Came up against a numpty with a pair of magicshines on full blast on a country lane.  My feelings on the matter were expressed without reservation.

Yes, you need to turn them down on the lanes.
As well as being polite, it increases the run-time from 3 hours to 10 hours.

I reserve full-power for high-speed descents!

--
Ron


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 15 November, 2011, 11:09:16 pm
As I was approaching a junction where I turn right, often across stationary traffic, I checked, and indicated, and took the lane then checked and indicated and moved into the right turn lane.  Traffic wasn't stationary, but slow moving.  A rather large and rather orange HGV that was going the opposite way stopped completely, several yards back from the junction, and the driver flashed his lights and waved to me to make the right turn across the resultant large and empty space without even needing to put a foot down... and was rewarded with a very big grin and a wave. 

He then turned left, into the side road.  And waited patiently a fair way back behind me until it was safe, before passing me wide and clear.  And I got a little light show of indicators and warning lights and stuff after he'd passed.

Made me  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 16 November, 2011, 07:57:18 am
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 15 November, 2011, 11:09:16 pm
A rather large and rather orange HGV ...

It was the weekly henna delivery to the CrinklyDen.  So no wonder he drove so carefully around his best customer. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 16 November, 2011, 08:46:43 am
Quote from: Steph on 15 November, 2011, 01:08:25 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 15 November, 2011, 08:43:06 am
Quote from: Steph on 15 November, 2011, 05:42:35 am
He's right. MAC. There is nothing anyone can do to make tossers like him any better on the road, nothing at all. If I had been less assertive, I'd have been under the wheels of his trailer.

Oooh, that's frustrating!!  Did you get his number and report him to SMART (Surrey's answer to Roadsafe)?

http://www.drivesmartsurrey.org.uk/contact.asp

Ooh! I shall bookmark that one!
Posted. Car number was FD56LFH. Man's A ....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 16 November, 2011, 09:05:27 am
Steph, you're awesome, thank you!!   :-*

I googled his plate, no videos apparent just yet.   ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 16 November, 2011, 06:20:02 pm
Not only that, I had two calls from Surrey plod thanking me and explaining the system.  :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 17 November, 2011, 06:56:17 am
Cycling in to my new job for the first time today.  Still haven't worked out the optimal route from Blackheath to Trafalgar Square but I'll see how the traffic feels and follow my instincts :-).  Wonder if my new colleagues are quite prepared for the sight of me in Lycra....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 17 November, 2011, 07:20:23 am
Quote from: Redlight on 17 November, 2011, 06:56:17 am
Cycling in to my new job for the first time today.  Still haven't worked out the optimal route from Blackheath to Trafalgar Square but I'll see how the traffic feels and follow my instincts :-).  Wonder if my new colleagues are quite prepared for the sight of me in Lycra....

Sounds like a tidy commute Redlight  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 17 November, 2011, 08:13:08 am
Well this weeks commute's have been totally uneventful, and thoroughly enjoyable, up until today, guess they've been saving them up, had THREE attempted left hooks all from driver's of a certain three lettered german car maker, all with so much condensation on the front windows I'm amazed that they could see any junctions at all. Think I need an airzound, I'm a bit hoarse from shouting "NO...NO..STAY RIGHT...STAY RIGHT"  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 17 November, 2011, 09:32:02 am
loverly morning here in Devon
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 17 November, 2011, 09:51:07 am
I arrived at work this morning with a silvery sheen coating the leading edge of everything I wore and carried and with dew dripping of the front of my helmet :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 17 November, 2011, 11:35:21 am
Quote from: fuzzy on 17 November, 2011, 09:51:07 am
I arrived at work this morning with a silvery sheen coating the leading edge of everything I wore and carried and with dew dripping of the front of my helmet :thumbsup:

You of all people should know you can get arrested for letting it all hang out......

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 17 November, 2011, 12:48:46 pm
Quote from: Ham on 17 November, 2011, 11:35:21 am
Quote from: fuzzy on 17 November, 2011, 09:51:07 am
I arrived at work this morning with a silvery sheen coating the leading edge of everything I wore and carried and with dew dripping of the front of my helmet :thumbsup:

You of all people should know you can get arrested for letting it all hang out......

Ham, you are a wag :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 17 November, 2011, 12:51:06 pm
Too warm in 3/4 bibs, baselayer, armwarmers and a S/S top. The marathon winters are mocking me from the corner of the garage.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 17 November, 2011, 01:55:15 pm
Quote from: DrMekon on 17 November, 2011, 12:51:06 pm
Too warm in 3/4 bibs, baselayer, armwarmers and a S/S top. The marathon winters are mocking me from the corner of the garage.

Looking like warmest November since records began, they are saying.

This can only be considered a good thing.

Unless you happen to have a house at or near sea level.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Rimnod on 17 November, 2011, 03:33:44 pm
Sighting the crest hill through the darkness I push on relieved to see the end of steepest part of my challenging commute home.  The darkness is all enveloping, silent apart of the breeze shaking down the last of the leaves and a dog barking in the far distance.

Without warning something nudges the back of my bike pushing the rear wheel off the road and into the gravel and broken shards of tarmac that make up the gutter. Trying to remain upright I hear something stumbling and crashing in the undergrowth to my left. 

Because of the curve I find myself with both wheels on the verge struggling to twist my left foot out of the pedal, wondering if a soaking in the drainage ditch is to follow.

Coming to a less than graceful halt on the edge of the ditch I find myself looking round and seeing only darkness, the silence has returned and I’m left wondering if the deer found the incident as shocking as I did.         
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 17 November, 2011, 08:38:11 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 17 November, 2011, 07:20:23 am
Quote from: Redlight on 17 November, 2011, 06:56:17 am
Cycling in to my new job for the first time today.  Still haven't worked out the optimal route from Blackheath to Trafalgar Square but I'll see how the traffic feels and follow my instincts :-).  Wonder if my new colleagues are quite prepared for the sight of me in Lycra....

Sounds like a tidy commute Redlight  :thumbsup:

'twas wonderful, just to be back on the bike and not on the cattle truck train.  I went straight up the Old Kent Road.  It was fine all the way to the Elephant and Castle, then my lack of knowledge of Southwark came into play so I think I took a slightly circuitous route to Waterloo Bridge  :-[  I came home along the Embankment and over Tower Bridge - at least I couldn't get lost that way.

Looking forward to tomorrow!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cuddy duck on 17 November, 2011, 09:50:52 pm
Quote from: CLINT on 20 November, 2009, 09:08:44 pm
It was great!.. After the shower at work I felt great... full of the joys of being alive and very positive.  Gotta love those endorphins  :thumbsup:

Please consider doing more posting when in this state of grace.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: trio25 on 17 November, 2011, 10:01:50 pm
Today I was working in southport, I live in Bolton, so of course I decided to cycle there. The ride in was fine, on the way home I think I left my brain in Southport. As I rode for an hour and ended up back in Southport! Then once I was on roads I knew going home my front lights died, leaving me with a blinky to get to the nearest village where I was picked up by my lovely OH!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 17 November, 2011, 10:19:53 pm
Quote from: trio25 on 17 November, 2011, 10:01:50 pm
Today I was working in southport, I live in Bolton, so of course I decided to cycle there. The ride in was fine, on the way home I think I left my brain in Southport. As I rode for an hour and ended up back in Southport! Then once I was on roads I knew going home my front lights died, leaving me with a blinky to get to the nearest village where I was picked up by my lovely OH!

Ah, but did you get to see the sea?

I know what you mean though - those roads around places like Martin Mere and Rufford can be quite confusing and all look the same
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: trio25 on 17 November, 2011, 10:21:33 pm
To make it worse I have a garmin, the problem is it kept trying to take me down dirt tracks.

See the sea at Southport? I did have Chippy though so that was good. Going to try again tomorrow!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 18 November, 2011, 09:42:34 am
Didn't realise how good the tail wind was until I turned a corner.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 18 November, 2011, 10:15:00 am
Got left hooked by a cyclist last night, I almost ended up chainsawing his rear wheel. We were stopped at Camberwell at a red light, and as we pulled off for the green he passed on the right and swung across me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 18 November, 2011, 12:00:06 pm
I had a fairly scary left hook last night.
I was making a turn (and I indicated) from Balham High Road into Ritherdon Road, it's quite a wide turn which was fortunate because the car that had been alongside me as I was riding up the High Road decided to turn into Ritherdon Road as well, parallel to me and then try to overtake.
Of course a cyclist doesn't make a neat 90 degree right turn and I saw him come around the corner with me at the last possible moment, so we got very, very close indeed before he finally out accelerated me and shot off down the road. I went  right at Huron road, along Tooting Bec and caught the bugger up within 5 minutes as he turned into Aldrington Road.
He must have been a private cab as he was double parked a bit further up the road.

Spectacularly poor driving though and for nothing.

Purple Ford Focus, can't remember the reg plate.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 18 November, 2011, 02:14:46 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 18 November, 2011, 10:15:00 am
Got left hooked by a cyclist last night, I almost ended up chainsawing his rear wheel. We were stopped at Camberwell at a red light, and as we pulled off for the green he passed on the right and swung across me.

That has happened to me on that junction. I am always tempted to go a few seconds before it goes green because it just gives you a chance to clear the gyratory and leave behind the motons and buses. That ASL is nearly always blocked as well, but I do my best to get to it!

For an experiment the other day I went onto the LCC website and plugged in my starting postcode and home postcode to let me plot a safe route home - I am getting rather sick of Vauxhall bridge you see. Instead of 55 minutes it took me 1 hour 50 minutes to get home. I saw parts of Lambeth, Southwark and Lewisham that I have never seen before in my life!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 18 November, 2011, 04:02:29 pm
LOL, I nearly chainsawed his back wheel with my big ring and cranks.  On routes, none of the bridges are much fun, TBH. At least Vauxhall northbound is fine with the bus lane.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 18 November, 2011, 04:22:58 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 18 November, 2011, 04:02:29 pm
LOL, I nearly chainsawed his back wheel with my big ring and cranks.  On routes, none of the bridges are much fun, TBH. At least Vauxhall northbound is fine with the bus lane.

Phew, that was a close thing Mikey!

Southwark Bridge is not bad to be honest. But turning right onto Vauxhall bridge and then using the 'cycle' lane on the road there is just not nice and then being super-assertive when you go underneath the railway bridge is just not pleasant. Vauxhall northbound with the bus lane is fine and there are normally a dozen or 20 cyclists sat there so it is safety in numbers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 18 November, 2011, 11:03:24 pm
I actually commuted by bike today. That's a month since my last ride.  :-[  :'(   It's got darker and just a little cooler since then, but it was good.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 18 November, 2011, 11:08:21 pm
Not just me then. I haven't been on the bike to work since before half-term. I'm going barmy here without the exercise.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 19 November, 2011, 12:32:59 am
I saw them on the way in...and I stopped on the way home to pick them up. Three gorgeous macrolepiota parasol mushrooms. Tomorrow's lunch!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 19 November, 2011, 11:45:35 am
Got left hooked last night on the way back from a family pub meal...


















....











Only I was driving a car  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 19 November, 2011, 11:48:13 am
Quote from: hatler on 18 November, 2011, 11:08:21 pm
Not just me then. I haven't been on the bike to work since before half-term. I'm going barmy here without the exercise.

Not just you then.
Barmy? Already there.
Here's a new one. I'm getting fat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 November, 2011, 11:59:21 am
You?  Fat? 

I think that must be a comparative thing.  Come and stand next to me for a while, and you'll feel better ;D

As for me, the news is that I have been commuting this week, after a while of noodling about not doing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 19 November, 2011, 12:15:59 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 18 November, 2011, 04:22:58 pm

Southwark Bridge is not bad to be honest. But turning right onto Vauxhall bridge and then using the 'cycle' lane on the road there is just not nice and then being super-assertive when you go underneath the railway bridge is just not pleasant. Vauxhall northbound with the bus lane is fine and there are normally a dozen or 20 cyclists sat there so it is safety in numbers.

Vauxhall bridge southbound and then turning right towards Stockwell under the railway bridge is an abomination. I always take Lambeth bridge now. Some drivers appear to be under the misapprehension that because Vauxhall bridge has several lanes, it is in fact a motorway. And I was nearly knocked off by a close pass from a Megabus once - that's when I stopped using it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 19 November, 2011, 01:36:09 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 19 November, 2011, 11:48:13 am
Quote from: hatler on 18 November, 2011, 11:08:21 pm
Not just me then. I haven't been on the bike to work since before half-term. I'm going barmy here without the exercise.

Not just you then.
Barmy? Already there.
Here's a new one. I'm getting fat.
I don't believe that's possible.

I have no problem on the weight front, fitness and sanity are the issues.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 21 November, 2011, 08:44:54 am
The Orange Bling is in the shop having its second replacement brake fitted.  (See rants re: Tektro Lyra brakes, passim)

I've been using the Belt-drive Trek Soho all last week.  Yesterday, I was "sweep rider" for a BHF Fundraising Walk on the High Peak Trail.  The trail's surface didn't look too bad, but, when riding at walking pace, I found it consisted of play-doh and superglue.  Removing this from the mudguards will be easier in a day or two when it's set properly.  (Semi-smug mode - that sort of grit and sludge in a chain would necessitate a new one - and I don't even want to think about what it would have done to rim brakes.)

So I've resorted to the fall-back of the Dawes Super Galaxy; this is the first time I've ridden it since it was returned from loan to a fellow oarsperson who rode it for a week's holiday with her husband on the Way of the Roses.  She returned it in immaculate condition - factory-clean, and all working parts sweetness and light.

I'd forgotten how quiet and responsive derailleurs can be. Every shift went immediately into the correct gear (except just one overthrow beyond the big ring - a "feature" of that bike, now I come to remember it.)  On the downside, there were a couple of nasty moments when the cantilever brakes didn't quite live up to the performance I now expect from the hubs and disks on the rest of my fleet.

And I got overtaken by a red BMW whose driver decided that the half-car-length gap between me and the car in front was large enough for him.  Par for the Course at the junction known as Five Lamps - where all the cars take the left lane, and the bikes and buses need the right lane for going straight on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 21 November, 2011, 09:20:40 am
Glory. Commuted by bike today for the first time since Oct 20th. Thank god for that. Cars and traffic were driving me barmy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 November, 2011, 10:21:44 am
Commute to work took a long time this morning.  I felt really slow.  Actually, the moving average was OK, but a string of red lights, a load of school-run traffic I don't normally hit, and a disappointing sequence of red lights impeded my progress.  I checked the weather reports.  A slight headwind, but not enough to make for such a feeling of trudge.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 21 November, 2011, 10:45:29 am
Quote from: Steph on 19 November, 2011, 12:32:59 am
I saw them on the way in...and I stopped on the way home to pick them up. Three gorgeous macrolepiota parasol mushrooms. Tomorrow's lunch!
Riding through the Surrey Hills last week, I found a whole bunch of these and brought them home.  Much to OH Mario's amazement as he has been trying for years without success to impart a smidgeon of his mycological knowledge (which is vast) to me without any apparent success.  However, parasols must be one of the most failsafe fungi, identification wise. So not really much of an achievement.  But they are delicious- and, as Mario's sister sings when we're out collecting edibles, if you can't nosh 'em, squash'em.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 21 November, 2011, 11:29:11 am
Hit 47kph across Tooting Bec this morning, the result of some unspent adrenaline, after a pointless pass by a car back by Streatham Common.
Ordinarily I'd have shrugged it off, but as I was sat at the lights earlier I could smell cannabis fumes from behind me and the driver turned out to be a woman on the school run.
I got treated to a pointless overtake, followed by abrupt stop as the road in front proved to be impassible (to a car).
If I'd been able to get the number plate I would have phoned the local safer neighbourhoods team.

As it was, I'd imagine those kids make a great impression when they arrive at school stinking of weed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 21 November, 2011, 11:40:00 am
Roadsafe would have loved that little tidbit of intelligence, Alex.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 21 November, 2011, 11:58:20 am
I'm absolutely shocked at the number of times I smell pot coming out of cars.

I remember never seeing/smelling people smoking cannabis in public as a kid/teenager. It's gotten more and more common and the "legalise" brigade have a lot to do with this. Whatever their views, it has no place in cars, or in any other siutation where the person using it is operating machinery, or driving a vehicle.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 21 November, 2011, 12:34:29 pm
I have finally fixed Orange bike and resumed my normal single speed commute.  Pink White and Blue bike should hide in the shed until all the road salt disappears again, not that any has appeared yet. 

The traffic was kind to me.  Lights turned green as I approached and gaps in roundabouts allowed easy entry and a huge gap appeared as I needed to turn right across the A473 dual carriageway.  Clearly the gods like Orange bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ianrauk on 21 November, 2011, 08:48:23 pm
Quote from: alexb on 21 November, 2011, 11:58:20 am
I'm absolutely shocked at the number of times I smell pot coming out of cars.

I remember never seeing/smelling people smoking cannabis in public as a kid/teenager. It's gotten more and more common and the "legalise" brigade have a lot to do with this. Whatever their views, it has no place in cars, or in any other siutation where the person using it is operating machinery, or driving a vehicle.

Yep, there's a lot of it out there. Smell it on almost a daily basis.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 22 November, 2011, 08:15:56 pm
Gower Street, waiting to turn left at the lights to Great Russell Street. I decide not to pull in front of the taxi (also turning left, about 12" between his nearside front and the kerb and wait behind. Lights change to red/amber, I signal to turn left before moving.

How was I to know that a ninjer (same as a ninja but... you've got it) fakenger (s/s, pretty, cut down bars, no lights, no messenger bag) would be trying to belt through the narrow gap on my inside? Nobody actually hurt, both a little surprised.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 22 November, 2011, 10:29:15 pm
Quote from: Ham on 22 November, 2011, 08:15:56 pm
Gower Street, waiting to turn left at the lights to Great Russell Street. I decide not to pull in front of the taxi (also turning left, about 12" between his nearside front and the kerb and wait behind. Lights change to red/amber, I signal to turn left before moving.

How was I to know that a ninjer (same as a ninja but... you've got it) fakenger (s/s, pretty, cut down bars, no lights, no messenger bag) would be trying to belt through the narrow gap on my inside? Nobody actually hurt, both a little surprised.
Unobtanium ReeVu mirror built into helmet FTW.  If I'm at a red, and about to get undertaken by an RLJ, then I may well instantly indicate left.   With a fist.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 23 November, 2011, 06:36:15 am
Had the usual close passes, but I thought this pointless left hook was particularly wanky.  Why they couldn't have waited a few seconds to pull into the block of flats I'll never know.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o8D0lpPPz2A
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Priddy on 23 November, 2011, 08:59:34 am
Left the house slightly earlier than usual today so was greeted by a fantastic view along the Eastern Road in Portsmouth, only to have to stop once I got to the top of Portsdown Hill because of an even better view out over Hampshire.
(http://richardpriddy.co.uk/yacf/IMAG0124.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 23 November, 2011, 09:01:42 am
..... my thumbs took like, forever to warm up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 November, 2011, 10:37:51 am
Took ages to even get out of the village, but I caught up the time eventually.  Even managed to get to the bank and back and get to my desk 15mins 'late' (but the bank trip was for work).

Mist over the Commons was nice, and it shrouded the worst excesses of the shard.

Second day running I saw Police m/cyclists in an ASL.  Today it was a convoy of three.  At the next lights, two jumped the red and the third waited, legally this time.  The two in front waited blocking the cycle lane >:(

Ah well, it was a decent ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 23 November, 2011, 10:42:10 am
First proper frost on a commuting day today.  Cold but loverly and bright
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 23 November, 2011, 10:45:27 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 23 November, 2011, 10:42:10 am
First proper frost on a commuting day today.

It was bloody cold this morning. I assumed that was why the bike store was emptier than usual when I got to work, but then I realised that actually I wa a bit earlier than usual - my train must have been on time for once.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 23 November, 2011, 10:48:08 am
Where _is_ everyone? I scarcely see another rider before hitting Aldgate. I know I start early (6:30) but even so, the were quite a lot up to this week, and this is the first cold morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 23 November, 2011, 01:02:34 pm
There are still quite a few cyclists on my commute. Today was the fist day that my feet were cold, so extra (third) pair of socks or overshoes tomorrow, I think.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 23 November, 2011, 01:05:54 pm
Bike shed/rack less than half-full today, compared to overflowing last week. It was 1c when I left this morning, with neighbours scraping frost off their windscreens.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 23 November, 2011, 01:23:09 pm
Ah well, I get the chance to observe a larger cross section today as, in memory of days gone by, my route home from Acton will be via Feltham.

And no, I don't know the reason they are cross.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 23 November, 2011, 01:45:39 pm
Mechanical failure today - the first on new bike in three years. The rear gear cable snapped on the Kingston one-way.

Hello single speed.

And amazingly the mist/fog did appear to slow motorists down. Amazing. I'm still astounded at the number of drivers who don't think to put any lights on at all though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 23 November, 2011, 02:48:08 pm
Quote from: hatler on 23 November, 2011, 01:45:39 pm

Hello single speed.


He has seen the light!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 23 November, 2011, 02:54:11 pm
Quote from: Ham on 23 November, 2011, 01:23:09 pm
And no, I don't know the reason they are cross.

Because they're stuck in traffic in a tin box listening to Steve Wright?

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 23 November, 2011, 03:37:45 pm
Quote from: PaulF on 23 November, 2011, 02:48:08 pm
Quote from: hatler on 23 November, 2011, 01:45:39 pm

Hello single speed.


He has seen the light!
Yup. And it was horrible.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 23 November, 2011, 03:52:21 pm
met Mr Ernst and had a wee blether with him on the way into town.
which was nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 23 November, 2011, 04:04:53 pm
Quote from: PaulF on 23 November, 2011, 02:48:08 pm
Quote from: hatler on 23 November, 2011, 01:45:39 pm

Hello single speed.


He has seen the light!
Not quite ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 23 November, 2011, 07:14:24 pm
Quote from: Ham on 23 November, 2011, 10:48:08 am
Where _is_ everyone? I scarcely see another rider before hitting Aldgate. I know I start early (6:30) but even so, the were quite a lot up to this week, and this is the first cold morning.

Plenty around by 7.30  :)  Worrying to see so many riding without any lights though, despite fog.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 23 November, 2011, 08:17:24 pm
Well, FWIW, my impression on the number of cyclists on the roads on my metric century commute today. Those still cycling appear to be largely those within a 5 mile radius of the centre of town and while town centre numbers are still high, it drops off very quickly as you move out. The all year cyclists are still out there, but there really aren't that many more of them than there were a few years back, so the difference is much more noticeable.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 November, 2011, 08:49:07 pm
Wednesday?  That'll be why I've got Friday legs, then :(

Never mind, it was uplifting to see a group of eight cyclists all together at the junction at Stockwell.  Even better when we moved forward to the next set of lights and joined a group of another seven.

I reckon there are as many cycle commuters now as there were my first summer on this route three years ago.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 24 November, 2011, 04:20:29 am
Interesting day on the road. I've had a series of spontaneous deflations recently (all with different causes and none while riding) and this bit me on the arse today. Initially it was just an annoyance that when I attempted to leave home I noticed the tube I replaced yesterday wasn't holding air overnight. Swapped it out and found that the valve core wasn't quite air tight. The reason this tube was on the bike was because the valve was a little short and proved fiddly to inflate, if I was out on the road I'd want to be swapping this one out rather than in. I forgot this when I decided that it would do as an emergency spare.
Anyway, after a dog running down the middle of the road (followed by owner), being deliberately driven into by a sanctimonious merc driver, a SMIDSY, narrowly missing a ninja bike salmon (on Elephant and Castle going down the blindside of a bus!), a few hours work (which went quite well, only the people that were supposed to die died and then they got up again), a complement from another cyclist ("You look fast."), followed by something else ("You look beautiful too."), I found myself on the journey home. As I pulled out to overtake a bus something was spat out from one of the buses wheels and I went over it. It stuck to the rear wheel for a couple of rotations and then the air left the tyre.
I wasn't too phased as I'm getting quite quick at swapping tubes out, my current rim/tyre combo is lovely on the thumbs and I've just replaced the C02 inflator that was stolen a short while ago. So it was that I very quickly found out that the shorter valve while fiddly with a pump is impossible with my CO2 inflator. Arse.
I resigned myself to the six mile walk (which I wasn't too upset about as on a previous occasion I had had to drag the dead carcass of a bike back from the exact same spot only with a couple of broken toes thrown in for good measure) and was just setting off when another cyclist stopped and offered me a spare tube! Unfortunately it turned out that we would have encountered all the same problems again so I thanked him and he left. Only to come back a couple of minutes later offering to patch the old tube, but as the old tube was completely knackered all I could do was thank him once more.
I only managed to get another couple of hundred yards towards home when another cyclist stopped, asked if I was ok and then offered me a tube with a long valve! Back on the road in minutes and back home with hardly any hassle at all (apart from the guys screaming and running after me on Denmark Hill).
Things certainly have changed - it used to be that when I cycled home after midnight I'd pretty much be the only cyclist on the roads. Now, outside the centre of town I'll see another cyclist every couple of minutes and as tonight proved the chances of coming across someone helpful and generous seems pretty good. Thank you late night cyclists of Camberwell.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 24 November, 2011, 08:02:50 am
Oh well, just got to work after an uneventful ride in......imagine my delight to discover than somewhere en route I have parted company with my Fenix P3D  :sick:

<heads over to front light thread muttering>
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dinamo on 24 November, 2011, 08:23:14 am
Slightly longer ride in this morning.
Took the more scenic route through Henleaze ( rather than Southmead ) and then the 60km/h descent of Parrys Lane ! Then onto the A4 Portway before climbing over the Avonmouth bridge.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 24 November, 2011, 10:52:39 am
A heartening tale, benborp.

I'm ashamed to say that I didn't stop for someone last night.  I only caught sight of them out of the corner of my eye as I swooped through a junction, and didn't stop to turn back :-[

Another slow ride in today.  Well, interrupted, at least, for the moving average was OK.  Loads of school run traffic.  The disadvantage of starting an hour later :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 24 November, 2011, 07:09:00 pm
For some reason known to who knows what, our council decided to grit some selected roads last night - cue damp, very slippery, potentially lethal roads this morning. Despite gingerly negotiated the Beauchief roundabout, both wheels went slidies and bum hit ground. Grrr. Thanks to the moton behind who obligingly blocked the roundabout while I got up and dragged the bike to the side....
Title: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 24 November, 2011, 07:56:40 pm
Commuted to gatwick today, so rather than clock up 100 miles in my car at a financial loss (BigCo only pays 30p/mile), took the train on expenses.
What an interesting collection of smells!
I recon I could cut 1/2 hr off the journey if I use a boris bike across town. But I need to suss out all the registration guff in some daylight and when time allows.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: why1040 on 25 November, 2011, 07:58:55 am
Boris Bike registration=stick credit card into slot, follow destructions

Stick credit card into slot again and try again as reader has ignored your card

Stick different credit card into slot as first one is sulking

Get printed gubbins

Stick credit card (check to make sure it's the one that actually registered) into slot and take your bike   ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 25 November, 2011, 10:44:52 am
A commute of two halves...

Proper grim when I left the house for the first part of my commute, the short ride to the station. Dark clouds overhead necessitating lights, and light rain which turned into a heavy downpour before I'd got very far. On the descent into town, I had to go much slower than usual as the rain was getting in my eyes and I could hardly see where I was going. Luckily, I had a sensible, patient driver behind me who didn't try to overtake (they often do on that descent, even when I'm going at or above the 30 limit myself).  :thumbsup:

When I got off my train at the other end of my journey, it had turned into a beautiful morning with clear blue skies overhead.  ???

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 25 November, 2011, 12:26:34 pm
Last night was a truly evil wind, ended up with earache, toothache, sore throat and even my nostrils ached, a really painful evening.

Equipped with a buff this morning, really helps shut the wind out my ears and all is well today
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 25 November, 2011, 12:42:35 pm
Last night I was starting my commute when I head a clap clap clap noise behind me.  I realised something had fallen off my bike. I quickly notice that the rack light was no longer attached to its frame.  A quick search around in the dark allowed me to find the light.  I could not see the batteries anywhere then a slight glint and a found the first.  I was about to give up on the second when a car passed and ran over the battery and I heard where it was.  Sadly that battery is no longer useable.  As I use batteries in pays both are destined for the recycle bin.  The lamp itself seems ok. 

This is not my only light. It was my backup light.  I can tell when the dynamo light fails in the front but behind me I do not what is happening so I have two rear lights. Although one is only a reflector until I remember to put in some new batteries.

Title: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 25 November, 2011, 06:21:24 pm
Quote from: why1040 on 25 November, 2011, 07:58:55 am
Boris Bike registration=stick credit card into slot, follow destructions

Stick credit card into slot again and try again as reader has ignored your card

Stick different credit card into slot as first one is sulking

Get printed gubbins

Stick credit card (check to make sure it's the one that actually registered) into slot and take your bike   ;D
Hence time and daylight required for first go. Probably best not to try that whilst trying to shave minutes off a journey to a meeting.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 27 November, 2011, 04:12:33 am
It's all about the taxis. In the early hours of yesterday morning I was abused and then rammed from behind by a black cab driver after I held back from a junction to allow through an overtaking ambulance (sirens, flashing lights). This morning I was deliberately side-swiped by a hackney carriage mpv. I may have expressed my opinion as a rant elsewhere. A couple of miles later though I encountered the best piece of cyclist aware driving that I've seen for months. A taxi driver entering the roundabout ahead of me from my left, despite having plenty of time to do so before I even reached the roundabout, waited until I passed across before moving thus stopping the danger that I was wary of - that of the car behind him blindly following him onto the roundabout and into my path. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 27 November, 2011, 11:52:57 am
Quote from: benborp on 27 November, 2011, 04:12:33 am
A taxi driver entering the roundabout ahead of me from my left, despite having plenty of time to do so before I even reached the roundabout, waited until I passed across before moving thus stopping the danger that I was wary of - that of the car behind him blindly following him onto the roundabout and into my path. :thumbsup:
In that situation, the thing to be wary of is car #2 ramming car #1 just enough to shunt car #1 into your path.  Car #2 Driver to Car #1 Driver "What were you waiting there for?" :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 27 November, 2011, 05:35:32 pm
Quote from: rower40 on 27 November, 2011, 11:52:57 am
Quote from: benborp on 27 November, 2011, 04:12:33 am
A taxi driver entering the roundabout ahead of me from my left, despite having plenty of time to do so before I even reached the roundabout, waited until I passed across before moving thus stopping the danger that I was wary of - that of the car behind him blindly following him onto the roundabout and into my path. :thumbsup:
In that situation, the thing to be wary of is car #2 ramming car #1 just enough to shunt car #1 into your path.  Car #2 Driver to Car #1 Driver "What were you waiting there for?" :facepalm:

Not quite the same situation, but not too far different:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pMipCM-yR6c

Sorry to hear of your tribulations, Ben. Must admit I feel quite grumpy after tonight's commute. Just far too many impatient twunts who force a squeezed-through overtake when they should really wait a mere 10 seconds for a chance to make a high quality safe and easy overtake.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 28 November, 2011, 08:34:27 am
Back on this bike this morning after a prolonged case of CBA.  :(

Coldest ride so far this Fall, but a seasonably mild 5.  It was good to be back on the bike, in spite of RLJs and a selfish driver or three.

Left quite early this morning so thought I might catch Ham on his way in.  After a bit of thought I realised:
1) like me, he has a number of routes in to town, so no guarantee we were on the same route
2) I left a bit later than he usually does, so even if on the same route I'd need to be faster than him
3) Ham is faster than me

If I'm not too tired I'll try to take one of my longer routes home tonight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 28 November, 2011, 08:53:02 am
'twas 1.5 a few hundred yards up the road (according to my thermometer), frost on the cars suggests it wasn't 5. Definite case for breaking out the full gloves.

As it happens I started off a bit later than normal (6:35) and was going quite slow this morning, at least it felt like it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bloomers100 on 28 November, 2011, 09:08:46 am
It was forecast for 3 degrees around Chelmsford, but it sure felt colder to me. Normal lycra bib shorts with legwarmers gave me numb arse cheeks by the time I got to Brentwood. The 'Wham' Gore jacket was great with only short sleeve on underneath.

It will be too 'warm' tonight for jkt so I'll have to rustle up an alternative from the pannier.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 28 November, 2011, 10:33:04 am
Yesterday, I was riding in sunshine without mitts, hat or even buff.  Today, I started off with an extra layer, buff, full-finger gloves, and woolly hat.  But it warmed up, I'm pleased to say.

Back to commuting on fixed.  Feels good :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tom M on 28 November, 2011, 12:10:31 pm
Nearly left hooked by an older lady after she overtook me then pulled right in front to park in a layby. Stopped to (calmly...) express the danger of that particular piece of driving.

Me "You could just have seriously injured or killed me there"
Her "I was indicating"

 :facepalm:

Her "You bikers should be on the footpath"

Wanders of to the shops as I stand there baffled...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 28 November, 2011, 07:46:49 pm
The way home tonight was uphill, headwind and rain.  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 28 November, 2011, 07:56:38 pm
Well that was interesting! As I headed on towards the pavement this evening in New Cross (a nice little route that I showed Wendy last week) I got flagged down by a policeman saying that it was a pavement and that I should not be cycling on there when I resolutely pointed out to him:

1) It was a LCN route
2) There were cycling signs up to show that it was a cycling route
3) That I helped to run the local cycling group and that the cycling officer at Lewisham Council could confirm to him that it was a cycle route.

He then asked me for my details and the cycling officers details, I said that obviously I did not want a fine because I was only following the correct route which was signed.

One minute later another cyclist was pootling along and he tried stopping him.

It was only that when the cyclist demonstrated on a TfL map that it was a cycle route that his colleague then said 'Umm it is a cycle route and there are cycling signs up' that he apologised and bade me a good journey home. I told them that our local group would be pushing then for better signage so that it would be more apparent in the future. It all ended well  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: welshwheels on 28 November, 2011, 07:58:41 pm
I got very wet  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 28 November, 2011, 08:02:22 pm
I had an interesting ride home, but I think it was a bit unfair for the wind to be in my face both directions today.  I appreciate that neither was anything like as fierce as the weekend winds, but even so.

But I had fun commuting fixed again :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 28 November, 2011, 08:49:57 pm
I met up with another cyclist on the way home over the Pennines this evening and got chatting (between gasps) over a 10km shared stretch.....
He has a 75 mile round trip commute  ::-). Not every day though. Between Matlock and the northern side of Rotherham.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 28 November, 2011, 10:20:54 pm
Despite being only a month old my sprocket/chain is slipping.  Apart from that I really enjoy my commute which is really unusual at this time of year.  I normally hate the dark start and finish.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CamPhil on 29 November, 2011, 01:53:52 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 28 November, 2011, 07:56:38 pm
Well that was interesting! As I headed on towards the pavement this evening in New Cross (a nice little route that I showed Wendy last week) I got flagged down by a policeman saying that it was a pavement and that I should not be cycling on there when I resolutely pointed out to him:

1) It was a LCN route
2) There were cycling signs up to show that it was a cycling route
3) That I helped to run the local cycling group and that the cycling officer at Lewisham Council could confirm to him that it was a cycle route.

He then asked me for my details and the cycling officers details, I said that obviously I did not want a fine because I was only following the correct route which was signed.

One minute later another cyclist was pootling along and he tried stopping him.

It was only that when the cyclist demonstrated on a TfL map that it was a cycle route that his colleague then said 'Umm it is a cycle route and there are cycling signs up' that he apologised and bade me a good journey home. I told them that our local group would be pushing then for better signage so that it would be more apparent in the future. It all ended well  :)

I wonder if there is any connection between your encounter and the wunch who were forcing cyclists off the shared use cycleway and into the Bow deathtrap recently?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 29 November, 2011, 07:44:05 am
I must admit I've told a few cyclists there that the pavement was for five year olds. Thank goodness most of them were on the non-cycling side, but a few were on the LCN route. I had no idea it was a cycling route either. :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 29 November, 2011, 08:58:43 am
Dear sirs,

I would like to report an incident this morning, Tuesday 29th November at 07:15 between myself and a bus on route 94, registration AN60BYD.

I was cycling westbound on Oxford Street in the middle of the nearside lane just past Park Street, and was accelerating away from the green traffic light. I was moving out to overtake a bus stopped at the first of two bus stops, when I heard a horn behind, so eased off to find a bus overtaking, only to brake sharply and pull in to the second of the two stops, this was the bus in question. So far, so average. As I passed by the bus (now stopped) the driver shouted “Arsehole!” at me.

As that doesn’t normally happen to me – I am one of those increasing numbers of cyclists who steadfastly abide by the Highway Code and ride as considerately and carefully as I can – I stopped to find out what it was that had caused offence. The driver appeared somewhat agitated, and accused me of “trying to race the bus” and being “crazy”. Which struck me as odd.

Let me start by saying I have a great deal of sympathy for London bus drivers, and I have seen with my own eyes the suicidal behaviour of some cyclists around them, frequently it is only the professionalism of the bus drivers that saves them from themselves. Add to that the issues of dealing with the rest of the traffic and the public, and you have a very stressful job. However, all cyclists are not alike except in one specific respect – we have soft squishy insides that we prefer to keep inside.

There are several things wrong with this driver’s attitude. First, and probably least important, I was not racing the bus, as he would have it, I was riding at my normal speed. That does mean that up to about 20 mph, I will out accelerate a bus, and I have as much right to ride on the road as any other traffic. Second, probably most importantly, there was no need to overtake, whether or not he felt I was doing something wrong. Knowing that he was stopping in 100 yards or less, especially at a time of day when traffic is non existent, remaining calm and staying behind if he felt he could not safely overtake would have been the appropriate course.

I hold no animosity towards the driver and really do not want this to result in any disciplinary action towards him, this is not a complaint. However he clearly has an attitude problem (or maybe, he was just having a bad morning?) and would benefit from education, maybe reading this letter would help. I am sure that you as an organisation would like to encourage the highest standards in your drivers, so may take this opportunity to highlight what might become a problem if it is not addressed.

Yours sincerely

Ham
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 29 November, 2011, 09:03:08 am
Nice letter Hamster.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 29 November, 2011, 09:41:49 am
Seconded, that's an excellent letter.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 29 November, 2011, 10:45:02 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 28 November, 2011, 07:56:38 pm
Well that was interesting! As I headed on towards the pavement this evening in New Cross (a nice little route that I showed Wendy last week) I got flagged down by a policeman saying that it was a pavement and that I should not be cycling on there when I resolutely pointed out to him:

1) It was a LCN route
2) There were cycling signs up to show that it was a cycling route
3) That I helped to run the local cycling group and that the cycling officer at Lewisham Council could confirm to him that it was a cycle route.

He then asked me for my details and the cycling officers details, I said that obviously I did not want a fine because I was only following the correct route which was signed.

One minute later another cyclist was pootling along and he tried stopping him.

It was only that when the cyclist demonstrated on a TfL map that it was a cycle route that his colleague then said 'Umm it is a cycle route and there are cycling signs up' that he apologised and bade me a good journey home. I told them that our local group would be pushing then for better signage so that it would be more apparent in the future. It all ended well  :)

I'm reassured that the Met are zealously patrolling the pavements of New Cross rather than troubling the hoards of speeding, mobile-using, marijuana tooting, blacked-out sensory deprivation wagons that I encounter on a daily basis in south London.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 29 November, 2011, 11:17:15 am
I was totally flung into work by a massive tail wind Gosh, I was feeling strong this morning.  :)
Might be a little different tonight.  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 29 November, 2011, 12:05:10 pm
I know I had a tailwind this morning.  But I didn't have the legs to make the most of it. :-[

It was a reasonable ride, though, with the usual numbers of RLJers, idiots and good riders.

It was quite a shock to see someone on a stretcher being loaded into an ambulance in Stockwell.  There was a bike nearby, and another cyclist who looked like she had been helping.

At the traffic lights, there were an LAS vehicle and a Police one with a wide trailer which didn't look to be going anywhere.  Beyond the cyclist was another Police vehicle towing another wide trailer.  So there were at least emergency staff on the scene.

I hope the rider wasn't too badly hurt, and is back awheel soon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 29 November, 2011, 12:11:48 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 28 November, 2011, 07:56:38 pm
As I headed on towards the pavement this evening in New Cross (a nice little route that I showed Wendy last week) I got flagged down by a policeman saying that it was a pavement and that I should not be cycling on there when I resolutely pointed out to him:

1) It was a LCN route
2) There were cycling signs up to show that it was a cycling route
3) That I helped to run the local cycling group and that the cycling officer at Lewisham Council could confirm to him that it was a cycle route.


Is that by the Marquis of Granby, by the lights outside the Venue?  I've often wondered whether it would be worth using that route, but I'd then be faced with a tricky right turn to Brockley, but it would avoid that right hand lane as you head down to the lights by the Amersham Arms, and the westbound traffic that often continues to flow through that set of lights long after it has a red.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 29 November, 2011, 12:15:12 pm
Rear wheel puncture this morning. It didn't rain on me whilst I was fixing it though, so there was a silver cloud there.

On the super plus side, my new gloves are excellent. I'm dead pleased with them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 29 November, 2011, 12:46:35 pm
Quote from: Peewit on 29 November, 2011, 12:11:48 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 28 November, 2011, 07:56:38 pm
As I headed on towards the pavement this evening in New Cross (a nice little route that I showed Wendy last week) I got flagged down by a policeman saying that it was a pavement and that I should not be cycling on there when I resolutely pointed out to him:

1) It was a LCN route
2) There were cycling signs up to show that it was a cycling route
3) That I helped to run the local cycling group and that the cycling officer at Lewisham Council could confirm to him that it was a cycle route.


Is that by the Marquis of Granby, by the lights outside the Venue?  I've often wondered whether it would be worth using that route, but I'd then be faced with a tricky right turn to Brockley, but it would avoid that right hand lane as you head down to the lights by the Amersham Arms, and the westbound traffic that often continues to flow through that set of lights long after it has a red.

It is, where they had that pop-up burger place! I rather like that LCN route as you directly avoid that right hand lane which I do not like. There is LCN signage that takes you towards Brockley which we did on a LCN consultation one morning - as you cycle up on the pavement on the A20  it is a right hand turn near that pub (the one which does the Vitenamese cuisine) As I was saying to Wendy, the local cycling campaigners regularly cycle on the pavement there just to demonstrate that there are busy roads but you can cycle on the pavement if you so wish to avoid it. I don't mind direct roads but I want more people to cycle and commute and if we can encourage that then that is a good thing.

AFAIK the other side of the road does have LCN status too but am not sure how far along that goes, will have to check the map.

Anyway, this morning! Woke up to the wind chasing the grey clouds away - yippeee. My gosh the Chelsea Embankment was hard work - heart really racing, it was almost like going up one of those Surrey Hills from the week-end. Good exercise.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 30 November, 2011, 09:05:13 am
Lovely quiet roads today better than summer holidays.  Please public sector strike every day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 30 November, 2011, 10:12:43 am
Two near misses today. Moron accelerating onto a roundabout - shame I was already on the roundabout, good thing I was covering my brakes.
Prick of a WVM objecting to me changing lanes just before a red light - he tried to accelerate and get past me but was miles back, no chance. So he did a 'punishment' swerve into my lane a bit further on (very obvious one; I was in right-hand lane at that point and he was going left, so in left lane). I was in a shitty mood by then so it's probably a good thing they turned off the road before I caught up with them, or I might have done something stupid.

Many people seem to be subject to this sort of shit every day - I get it maybe once in a blue moon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 30 November, 2011, 10:14:19 am
I waved and cheered at the pickets I saw on the way in (three PCS; one GMB; no Unison :( ).

A lovely day today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 30 November, 2011, 08:13:22 pm
It's the little interactions with others on bikes that make it so much fun.



He: "oops,  sorry"
Me: "you sure?"
(both now stopped to avoid a coming together)
He: "I'm going straight on"
Me (perplexed): I signalled??
He: "Yes I know"
Me: So you pulled away from a little way behind me, having waited at a red light, having seen my left signal, and still tried to fit between me and the kerb. Clever"

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 30 November, 2011, 09:57:07 pm
Today was one of those rare days on which I did have a commute, if we stretch the term a little. And today it was all in the dark!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 30 November, 2011, 11:19:59 pm
Drove in today with Mrs Hall (she now works next door to me), but sneaked her new folder into the boot. (bought off jogler a couple of weeks back). Come going home time, she drove and I cycled.  After a couple stops to tweak the saddle I was on my way. A surprising fast and light bike, well specced too.  Took a longish way home and enjoyed the ride, which was slightly marred by the back light making a series of bids for freedom. This is the same back light and bracket that has been perfectly happy on the back of the Bob Yak.  As the final bid for freedom resulted in the light getting run over I had to walk the last milem
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: arallsopp on 01 December, 2011, 01:50:56 am
Today was one of those "absolutely must leave the office on time if I'm to get home in time for a US conference call scheduled for early evening but taking the whole evening up" so obviously:

- was the only one who turned up to the call.
- managed to throw the chain on the Seiran at Vauxhall, and although it didn't actually come fully off, I did manage to loop it around the crank and introduce a 180 degree twist in it.... which made pedalling into the headwind back to Bromley a fair whack harder and an awful lot noisier.

Having thoroughly dirtied my hands since, I gave up and undid the quick link. Now its fixed. Phew.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 01 December, 2011, 08:44:29 am
Quote from: Tim Hall on 30 November, 2011, 11:19:59 pm
Drove in today with Mrs Hall (she now works next door to me), but sneaked her new folder into the boot. (bought off jogler a couple of weeks back). Come going home time, she drove and I cycled.  After a couple stops to tweak the saddle I was on my way. A surprising fast and light bike, well specced too.

I'm glad you are pleased with it.

For the benefit of others be advised that I have another bike the same* for sale.

* I bought a pair:his & hers as it were.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 01 December, 2011, 08:46:11 am
Got out of bed and did the bathroom stuff.

Went downstairs to prep Clan lunches, feed the cats etc.

Let cats out- pissing down with rain.

Ate breakfast and got ready to ride to work in pissing rain.

Went out to shed to get bike and ride.

Rain had stopped and it was not cold.

Entered shed and got changed again into Not pissing down with rain gear.

Rode to work.

Pissed down with rain 5 minutes from destination ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 01 December, 2011, 09:54:11 am
Less a "today" more "year".  I'm sure Clarkson (may he burn in hell with rusty spokes hammered under his fingernails and whereever else may prove most incommoding) has been making blood sacrifices to the anti-cycling gods this year.  The constant drip of life's little irritations that have meant I've been forced to drive when normally I would have cycled have been very many more than is good for my sanity, including two complete weeks where I didn't turn a pedal at all, and then last night some apocalyptically dumb woman1 comes within 6" of wiping me out completely right on my doorstep.  Roll on 2012.


1A few men have had a go this year as well, but none had attemped anything anywhere near as spectacularly stupid as last night's manoeuvre.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 01 December, 2011, 09:59:56 am
Today I had proof that driving a Prius does not automatically make you a "good person".
I was waiting at a T-junction for another cyclist to pass. The Prius driver behind me, drove around me as I made my turn, then around the outside (on the wrong side of the road) of the cyclist who had just passed and then cut in immediately in front of them to make a right turn.
We both had to brake hard to avoid collisions, me with the cyclist, the cyclist with the car.

Oh, and the Prius driver couldn't make the right turn because the junction was blocked. So both cyclists made the turn before the lights changed.

I looked back and he was blocking the whole junction for everyone because he was across two lanes at 45 degrees.

Arrogant. Stupid. Impatient. Cock.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 01 December, 2011, 10:42:28 am
Not surprised in the least. Prius drivers are often smug twats.

Set a new fixed PB for my short ride to the station this morning - broke the 9min barrier for the 4.5km, which means I also broke the 30km/h-average barrier. It's amazing what you can do when you have a train to catch. Just made it with seconds to spare too!

Max speed exactly 60.0km/h on the short, sharp descent into town. Thought I might break through that barrier too, the way I was going. Maybe next time...

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 01 December, 2011, 11:37:09 am
Prisoners taken: none.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 01 December, 2011, 02:27:24 pm
Last year Halfords fitted my gears wrong, I had to go back.

Should have sued:

http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/news/9352324.Cyclist_sues_York_store_after_crash/?ref=mc
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 01 December, 2011, 03:52:42 pm
It was very pleasant, after a chilly November shift in an unheated library, to ride home across smooth freshly laid tarmac with the heat still rising off it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 01 December, 2011, 05:04:39 pm
Yesterday coming back home late between wanstead and woodford, long gentle incline.
A middle age man in MTB riding veeery slowly as I am about to overtake, 2 cars approach from behind  so I slow right down behind him staying on the cycle lane to let the cars pass.
The  guy looks back and appears to be have the fright  of his life when he sees me 1 meter behind....
When asked what's wrong (3 times) he finally says 'you're too quiet!  you should have shouted something to signal your presence.
The horizontal Hope vision 1 on flashmode might have played a role too... might tilt it down a bit in future...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 01 December, 2011, 06:08:02 pm
Quote from: Arno on 01 December, 2011, 05:04:39 pm
Yesterday coming back home late between wanstead and woodford, long gentle incline.
A middle age man in MTB riding veeery slowly as I am about to overtake, 2 cars approach from behind  so I slow right down behind him staying on the cycle lane to let the cars pass.
The  guy looks back and appears to be have the fright  of his life when he sees me 1 meter behind....
When asked what's wrong (3 times) he finally says 'you're too quiet!  you should have shouted something to signal your presence.
The horizontal Hope vision 1 on flashmode might have played a role too... might tilt it down a bit in future...

Perhaps he should have done a bit more looking behind himself!!  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 01 December, 2011, 07:38:44 pm
That was wet.  Very wet. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 01 December, 2011, 07:59:04 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 01 December, 2011, 02:27:24 pm
Last year Halfords fitted my gears wrong, I had to go back.

Should have sued:

http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/news/9352324.Cyclist_sues_York_store_after_crash/?ref=mc

From that article it's clear that Halfords are not to blame:
Quote
The chain has accepted liability for the incident and has apologised to Mrs Percival.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 01 December, 2011, 08:30:22 pm
Quote from: Nuncio on 01 December, 2011, 07:59:04 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 01 December, 2011, 02:27:24 pm
Last year Halfords fitted my gears wrong, I had to go back.

Should have sued:

http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/news/9352324.Cyclist_sues_York_store_after_crash/?ref=mc

From that article it's clear that Halfords are not to blame:
Quote
The chain has accepted liability for the incident and has apologised to Mrs Percival.

Interesting to see smudge1 in the comments state '10,000 miles? I don't think so.' I see no reason why not...
Title: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 01 December, 2011, 09:24:13 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 01 December, 2011, 02:27:24 pm
Last year Halfords fitted my gears wrong, I had to go back.

Should have sued:

http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/news/9352324.Cyclist_sues_York_store_after_crash/?ref=mc

One does wonder why a 10,000 mile a year cyclist doesn't do their own maintenance? And why they would trust the 17 Y/O from Hafrauds to actually fix something properly?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 01 December, 2011, 10:05:30 pm
As an 11,000 mile per year cyclist with a full-time job and living in two places, I found some tasks beyond my strength and tools. I usually used my mobile mechanic, occasionally used an LBS but did most routine stuff myself.
I think a customer should have a reasonable expectation that Halford's should do a competent job. It's a bit sad when they (frequently) fail to deliver.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dinamo on 01 December, 2011, 10:42:38 pm
Foggy ride into work tonight !
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 01 December, 2011, 11:05:26 pm
Wow, there were some pricks out tonight!

The traffic lights on King's Road were replaced by temporary lights. Which a large number of cars were ignoring. It also wasn't clear where the diverted traffic was supposed to go, so I stayed to the right and found a car trying to get up alongside me on the left, with other cyclists on his left and none of us clear as to where the bloody road works were!! Having wriggled my way out of that one I had to avoid another cyclist who was weaving around with no front light and a white light mounted on the back of the bike.
He was a bit random, but no worse than me probably.
I caught him on Albert Bridge having seen him nearly get wiped out by another red light jumping moton on the Embankment.

I had a spare rear light ( a free blinky given to me on Clapham Common earlier this year) so came up alongside him and asked him politely if he only had one light. All I got was an instant tirade of abuse. I explained that I had a spare rear light with me, got yet more abuse, so finally told him to go fuck himself and rode off, with him still shouting at me.

At the lights by Battersea Park I got another earfull as he jumped the lights there as well and rode off into the rain.

So, not my best ride home. Oh and came within a couple of inches of being side swiped by another car as I was turning off into Tooting Bec....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 01 December, 2011, 11:10:41 pm
Dirty great dog fox trotting across the road, bold as brass. 40% of his silhouette was his tail.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 01 December, 2011, 11:56:33 pm
First properly wet ride this evening since... well, since before the summer, at least. Not especially heavy rain but persistent. Cold too. And lots of idiots on the road. Lots and lots of them. Why was there so much traffic in south London tonight?

My supposedly waterproof Sealskinz socks were completely sodden by the time I got on my train. Hmmm. Probably doesn't help that the rear half of my front mudguard broke a few weeks ago, so my feet were being constantly sprayed by my front wheel, not to mention splashed by cars going through puddles.

And because of the heavy traffic and adverse conditions, I was slower than usual so missed my train and had to stand around in the cold for half an hour waiting for the next one.

And then on the ride home from the station, it was very heavy rain, so I was very grateful for my hot shower when I got in.

Really enjoyable ride though!  ;D

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 02 December, 2011, 08:49:47 am
The ride home last night was slightly moist due to light drizzle but was OK.

The ride in thsi morning was clear and cold. So cold in fact that the need to pee on my arrival at work was hindered by my Outie having almost morphed to an Innie ;D

The ride was only spoiled by a dozy bint in a Suzuki jeep thing. Approaching an obstruction- dustcart stationary on our side of the road with a good flow of traffic in the opposing direction, she decides she just has to pass me before we reach the dustcart so she goes for it, slamming on the brakes and pulling back in to wait for a gap to pass the dustcart. Good job I can see into the future ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 02 December, 2011, 09:39:36 am
Long, slow, cold ride in today.

I drove in yesterday, and inspected the top of the Cairn, and it was remarkably icy. Didn't fancy it, so this morning rode a longer way via Stonehaven and Auchenblae.   Still very icy, had the back wheel spinning out on me over the Slug road.  Got off and walked sections where water running across road had frozen to bottle ice.  All descents had to be taken very carefully.

So I'm late in.

It was -2 when I left the house, and it's normally a couple of degrees colder crossing the slug road, and so it was today, I think.

Brr.

Will probably try the cairn on the way home, since by 4pm the ice should have gone.

<edit>
Yes, well the ice was gone, but it was a hard ride home for some reason. Took me nearly 3 hours, nearly half an hour more than normal.   Don't really know why.   Hmm, in retrospect I do, I'm lurgying up.   Shoulda recognised that.  Early indicators include very lazy cycling.
</edit>

--
Ron
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 02 December, 2011, 10:03:27 am
Aldi winter tights have stitching like a hacksaw blade on the pad.

Wore them for first time since last winter on Wed. "Ouch, that's a bit rough, I'll have to wear some old shorts under these."
Friday, start getting dressed (Thurs is bus day). "Oh, I'd forgotten about the rough pad - should get some shorts. Oh sod it, I'll just man up and get to work".

I now have a bleeding sore 1"x1/2" on one buttock.  :(
Not looking forward to ride home tonight. Might cover it with metonian dressing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 03 December, 2011, 02:17:10 am
While waiting at the lights at Elephant and Castle this evening I heard a light crump and turned to see that a ninja cyclist had been doored by the passenger of a merc. Genuine concern from the occupants of the car towards the cyclist who just seemed to be suffering from stinging palms. "Never mind about the car. How are you? " Refreshing to see people care.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 03 December, 2011, 08:38:47 am
Quote from: citoyen on 01 December, 2011, 11:56:33 pm

My supposedly waterproof Sealskinz socks were completely sodden by the time I got on my train. Hmmm.

I've found that they aren't waterproof in the sense that water goes in the top
They are water proof in the sense that water gets trapped inside them

The only really waterproof way for feet is to have long water proof trousers covering the tops of your shoes and socks.  Then no water can get in the top.  Of course long water proof trousers are often too hot and uncomfortable to wear

My current system is to have two sets of shoes, one of which dries out at home while the other is on my feet commuting
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 03 December, 2011, 11:28:06 am
I despair. There's no hope.

5pm (therefore dark).  Waiting at a red light where a bike/bus lane joins a complicated junction.  Over/undertaken by phalanx of teens on a variety of unlit BSOs (who I had overtaken some 30-60 seconds previously).  Some on the pavement, some on the road.  One decided to edumacate me, by helpfully calling out "You don't need to stop - you're not a car".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 03 December, 2011, 03:33:00 pm
Quote from: vorsprung on 03 December, 2011, 08:38:47 am
The only really waterproof way for feet is to have long water proof trousers covering the tops of your shoes and socks.  Then no water can get in the top.  Of course long water proof trousers are often too hot and uncomfortable to wear

Or you can rotate the gravity field through 90 degrees.  This probably explains why I don't have problems with water (other than sweat) getting into my Sealskinz.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 03 December, 2011, 03:37:43 pm
Quote from: rower40 on 03 December, 2011, 11:28:06 am
One decided to edumacate me, by helpfully calling out "You don't need to stop - you're not a car".

Interesting.  I wonder if that's genuine ignorance of the highway code, or verbalisation of the de-facto rules that most people seem to operate by.   ???

I suppose the flip side of the "cyclists don't have lights and are always RLJing and riding on pavements" perspective is the expectation that, when one is on a bike, that's what you're supposed to do.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 04 December, 2011, 10:43:47 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 03 December, 2011, 08:38:47 am
Quote from: citoyen on 01 December, 2011, 11:56:33 pm

My supposedly waterproof Sealskinz socks were completely sodden by the time I got on my train. Hmmm.

I've found that they aren't waterproof in the sense that water goes in the top
They are water proof in the sense that water gets trapped inside them

The only really waterproof way for feet is to have long water proof trousers covering the tops of your shoes and socks.  Then no water can get in the top.  Of course long water proof trousers are often too hot and uncomfortable to wear

My current system is to have two sets of shoes, one of which dries out at home while the other is on my feet commuting

An old apir of socls packed with silica gel will dry wet shoes over the course of a day if you're ever unlukcy enough to get soaked on the way to work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 05 December, 2011, 09:24:34 am
Leeds has wet  sleet  and icy pavements this morning. Unexpected. The cars aren't coping - there were queues back to the A1.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 05 December, 2011, 10:35:43 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 03 December, 2011, 08:38:47 am
Quote from: citoyen on 01 December, 2011, 11:56:33 pm

My supposedly waterproof Sealskinz socks were completely sodden by the time I got on my train. Hmmm.

I've found that they aren't waterproof in the sense that water goes in the top
They are water proof in the sense that water gets trapped inside them

The only really waterproof way for feet is to have long water proof trousers covering the tops of your shoes and socks.  Then no water can get in the top.

I can't tell if the water got in at the top or through the bottom, but I'm going to experiment by wearing them under my longs next time I'm out in the wet - the longs aren't waterproof but should at least allow the surface water to run off rather than into the socks.

As for drying out wet shoes, the old stuffing with newspaper trick will have to do. Can't afford the luxury of a second pair of shoes at the moment!

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Bairn Again on 05 December, 2011, 11:19:34 am
First really frosty and icy ride in this morning. 

Bit hairy in parts but not as bad as last year!

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 05 December, 2011, 11:49:29 am
Flipping cold this morning. A few dark patches on the road that looked suspiciously like ice but I took it cautiously and stayed upright. Might be time to fit the winter tyres, I reckon.

At least it looks like we'll avoid the snow down here in the soft southeast.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mr magnolia on 05 December, 2011, 01:15:08 pm
I decided that the decision to switch from last weeks shorts and tee shirt to socks and shoes, moleskin trousers, base layer, warm jersey , cycling jacket, skull cap and big gloves was entirely worthwhile.

I also switched from cycle paths back to the roads, after the first skating incident on the prom in Edinburgh, which is a little depressing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: niggle on 05 December, 2011, 08:00:03 pm
Goodness, it got down as low as 7°C on the commute today  :o ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 05 December, 2011, 08:31:23 pm
I had a nasty little incident on the way home tonight on my normally quiet commute. I was in the primary in the left hand lane approaching a roundabout. My lane was clear ahead but a queue was forming ahead in the right hand lane for traffic turning right. The driver of a white Meganne (?) decided she just had to be ahead of me and into my lane. She overtook and pulled into my space as she was still alongside. I had little option but to veer hard left towards the kerb and dive off.

I now know that Meganne mirrors fall off if you clip them with your knee on the dismount... The driver blasted her horn at me as if it were all my fault (I think she underestimated my speed and thought - "cycle, I can get past that and pull in with lots of room to spare"). She didn't choose to stop and do something about her dangling mirror or exchange details though...

I was too shaken up to get any details of the vehicle.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 05 December, 2011, 09:58:15 pm
Ouch - hope you and bike are ok.

I also hope that clipped off megane mirrors are very expensive to repair.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Karla on 05 December, 2011, 10:10:25 pm
Sorry to hear about that, I hope nothing worse comes to light in the morning.  At least she didn't get away scot free - maybe she'll think twice about pulling that stunt next time.

I think you get to add 10 points to your Real cyclist score: "I have damaged a car with nothing but my body"!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 05 December, 2011, 10:11:04 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 05 December, 2011, 09:58:15 pm
Ouch - hope you and bike are ok.

+1 to that, and I hope your run of bad luck ends when the year turns, not had a good 2011, luck-wise on your commute, have you?

Quote
I also hope that clipped off megane mirrors are very expensive to repair.

Speaking from experience, NOTHING is cheap with a Megane....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gerwinium on 05 December, 2011, 10:17:57 pm
Ouch... Hope you're okay, SC. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 05 December, 2011, 11:42:45 pm
Quote from: SlowCoach on 05 December, 2011, 08:31:23 pm
I was too shaken up to get any details of the vehicle.
1. hope you're okay.
2. don't worry - she wasn't using it anyway.
3. start a collection.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 06 December, 2011, 12:37:18 am
Jeez, SlowCoach, that's awful. Hope being a bit shaken up is the worst of it. The fact that she failed to stop despite the damage to her car shows that she knew she was in the wrong.  >:(

+1 to the hope that it's expensive for her to fix - it's the very least she deserves. Might even be worth reporting it to the police - presumably that'll be a garage job to repair, so if the police have any inclination to do anything about it, they should be able to trace her easily enough by asking around at local garages.

Makes my evening tale of woe pale into insignificance... Coming home from the station via the usually quiet back lane, I heard a car approaching pretty fast behind me. It's a narrow road with a somewhat less than perfect surface, and in the dark I don't like to ride too close to the verge, so there wasn't room for the driver to get past immediately. But I was doing 28-30km/h at the time, so didn't feel bad about holding him up for a few moments as I knew the road would be wide enough for him to pass very soon. Cue lots of revving, honking and aggressive manoeuvering. Eventually (ie after about 20 seconds  ::-) ) we reached the wider part of the road. As he passed, the passenger window was wound down and something incoherent was shouted at me. Didn't catch it as I had sweet music in my ears. Shame, because it was most likely a very witty remark that would have benefited me greatly to hear. I briefly considered making a gesture of appreciation but on a dark country lane with no witnesses, didn't want to risk aggravating him further... Of course, the car was a stupid MaxPowered boy racer hatchback, white with a blue racing stripe. Easily recognisable if I see it around locally again. Not that I would do anything stupid like pour brake fluid over it or slash the tyres if I did see it.  O:-)

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 06 December, 2011, 07:52:23 am
These last two mornings have been just perfect on my London commute.  Crisp, cold, clear, lights twinkling in the dark.  And the first time I have woken up without asthma wheezing and spluttering for a while.  So I have been riding my extended commute- a twelve mile trip that takes in a circuit of Greenwich park and Blackheath.  The glow of the sun before it rises illuminates the horizon on Blackeath beautifully.  And the views of the City, Shard and The Isle of Dogs in the clear, dark just before dawn winter air are breathtaking.  I just wish I had a good enough camera to take some decent pictures of it all. 
It does mean that I am heading up the Old Kent Rd a wee bit later (7.00) than normal.  So more cyclists, and some of them with a death wish.  I am quite amazed by just how many don't look behind before changing lanes.  And how late some leave it.  I think even at my youngest and most foolish and reckless, I always looked behind me quite a lot while riding.  Seems pretty basic to me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 06 December, 2011, 07:58:29 am
Hmmm.  Another close call this morning.  Don't quite know what's going on, but it's disturbing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 06 December, 2011, 08:12:52 am
Jeez that was cold. Definitely a 3 sock day!

My first cold commute of the season. My fingers only got warm by half way through, some extremities still aren't warm :o.

And I wish I had a camera to take a picture of the cyclist with a copy of teh FT in his jacket pocket. would have made a great shot
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 06 December, 2011, 08:47:46 am
Yep, cold ride in today.

Decided to avoid the steep high ground, and came by Stonehaven - Auchenblae.  Had headwind against me along this road, and there was a light dusting of snow laying on the road which was being picked up by the wind and blasted in my face.

Still, hopefully it will be a tailwind on the way home.

Well, the wind had died, so no tailwind.
But the temperature plummeted as soon as the sun dropped down.
Cold again.
Off for a warm shower.

--
R
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 06 December, 2011, 09:03:12 am
Brrrrr  Must find my baklavabalaclava for this month's FNRttC.

Commuting this week has been s l o w, easily 5kph slower than usual.  Last night's commute, in spite the lack of speed, was pretty good.  Hit most lights at green, even managed to get from East Cheap then all along The Highway without putting my foot down!  I expect to hit every light on red this evening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 06 December, 2011, 09:21:17 am
Quote from: jane on 06 December, 2011, 07:52:23 am
I am quite amazed by just how many don't look behind before changing lanes.  And how late some leave it.  I think even at my youngest and most foolish and reckless, I always looked behind me quite a lot while riding.  Seems pretty basic to me.

 :thumbsup:

Don't tell Clint though.  ;D

Quote from: TheLurker on 06 December, 2011, 07:58:29 am
Hmmm.  Another close call this morning.  Don't quite know what's going on, but it's disturbing.

Don't tell me - you bought a helmet camera and now you're looking for trouble?  :P

More seriously, sorry to hear that. It sucks sometimes, no matter how hard you try to correct for others' mistakes, and riding really well, you still end up getting a fright once in a while.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 06 December, 2011, 09:29:32 am
Quote from: jane on 06 December, 2011, 07:52:23 am
The glow of the sun before it rises illuminates the horizon on Blackeath beautifully.  And the views of the City, Shard and The Isle of Dogs in the clear, dark just before dawn winter air are breathtaking. 

I know those views  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 06 December, 2011, 09:36:28 am
Quote from: Wendy on 06 December, 2011, 09:21:17 am
Quote from: TheLurker on 06 December, 2011, 07:58:29 am
Hmmm.  Another close call this morning.  Don't quite know what's going on, but it's disturbing.

Don't tell me - you bought a helmet camera and now you're looking for trouble?  :P

More seriously, sorry to hear that. It sucks sometimes, no matter how hard you try to correct for others' mistakes, and riding really well, you still end up getting a fright once in a while.
I think it's the apparently deliberate nature of the last couple of incidents and that both happened less than a week apart that's the most disturbing thing.

And I should have said earlier; GWS slowcoach.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 06 December, 2011, 10:17:52 am
Amazing golden sunrise over the Blackdowns this morning
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: artyfaharty on 06 December, 2011, 10:18:54 am
Not sure what was happening on the North side of Southwark Bridge but the boys in blue were out in force. There were still a few RLJ who didnt see 15 of the Cities finest all decked out in hi viz jackets and jumped the lights with predictable results. As I went past there were trays of teas and biccies being dispensed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 06 December, 2011, 10:26:35 am
Quote from: artyfaharty on 06 December, 2011, 10:18:54 am
Not sure what was happening on the North side of Southwark Bridge but the boys in blue were out in force. There were still a few RLJ who didnt see 15 of the Cities finest all decked out in hi viz jackets and jumped the lights with predictable results. As I went past there were trays of teas and biccies being dispensed.

were the Cities finest rewarding RLJ with TLC? ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 06 December, 2011, 10:39:29 am
Lots of diesel spills on wet roads and the school playground was black ice, although it wasn't anywhere near cold enough for gloves.  First time in a long time that I found riding to work stressful, but having very nearly gone base over apex walking across said playground I was really really twitchy.  I can't afford to break anything else this year.

I think that might be my last commute of the year :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 06 December, 2011, 10:42:55 am
Quote from: artyfaharty on 06 December, 2011, 10:18:54 am
There were still a few RLJ who didnt see 15 of the Cities finest all decked out in hi viz jackets and jumped the lights with predictable results.

Cars or cyclists? Or both? Tbh, I see as many motor vehicles jumping the lights at that junction as cyclists, and I'm sure the police were being even-handed in dishing out the punishment.  ::-)

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 06 December, 2011, 10:57:54 am
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 06 December, 2011, 10:39:29 am
Lots of diesel spills on wet roads and the school playground was black ice, although it wasn't anywhere near cold enough for gloves.  First time in a long time that I found riding to work stressful, but having very nearly gone base over apex walking across said playground I was really really twitchy.  I can't afford to break anything else this year.

I think that might be my last commute of the year :(
MrsCharly had trouble getting to Uni this morning - lost the rear wheel 3 times on ice (which she described as 'crashed 3 times' - it just felt like a crash to a tentative bike rider).
I think the roads are ok - it's the ruddy pavements that are covered in ice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 06 December, 2011, 11:01:37 am
Well, I'm currently a _very_ tentative rider....  for the sake of a week or two til we break up, it isn't worth it if it isn't fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 06 December, 2011, 11:08:58 am
Probably sensible. The councils don't seem to have got their heads around the current ice - to be fair, the air temperatures wouldn't suggest black ice.
I think I might try the crisp-killer bike tomorrow - I need to swing by the boat mooring and that lane is bound to have ice on it. May as well find out how slow I'll be.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 06 December, 2011, 11:10:57 am
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 06 December, 2011, 11:01:37 am
Well, I'm currently a _very_ tentative rider....  for the sake of a week or two til we break up, it isn't worth it if it isn't fun.

And we can't afford to have you miss any more rides, can we?  That is more important :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 06 December, 2011, 11:11:29 am
No ice for me this morning but a good covering of hoar frost on the road so I was a wee bit more tentative than usual.

Really must fit the winter tyres before I have a reason to regret not doing so...

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 06 December, 2011, 11:18:41 am
Close fast overtake by a black audi in Leyton (Eastway/ Ruckholt road)  yesterday morning where the road narrows on the bridge over the railway line.
Did catch up at the next traffic light.... woman driver, 6 months pregnant, was courteous enough to open her window and apologise.
Does being pregnant affect your perception of space?

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 06 December, 2011, 11:27:29 am
Quote from: Arno on 06 December, 2011, 11:18:41 am
Does being pregnant affect your perception of space?
nope, driving an Audi has that effect.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 06 December, 2011, 12:17:07 pm
Uncomfortable ride in this morning. Shortly after setting off my chamois made a bid for freedom down my left leg. My shorts being bibs and effectively the bottom layer of four there was no way to retrieve it with any degree of decency.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 06 December, 2011, 12:29:38 pm
The pavements looked slippy in places this morning but fortunatley the roads were ok.  I will have to look at an alternate route home when it starts to get slippy as my commute is mostly through quiet narrow country lanes that will not be seeing any grit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 06 December, 2011, 12:41:02 pm

Quote from: Arno on 06 December, 2011, 11:18:41 am
Close fast overtake by a black audi in Leyton (Eastway/ Ruckholt road)  yesterday morning where the road narrows on the bridge over the railway line.
Did catch up at the next traffic light.... woman driver, 6 months pregnant, was courteous enough to open her window and apologise.
Does being pregnant affect your perception of space?


The research is inconclusive.  But even if it wasn't, and it was true, it wouldn't explain the many times that I have been buzzed in this way by a male driver, anyway.  Human beings of both sexes make mistakes while driving (and cycling). Well, human beings make mistakes full stop. That's all I'm sure of.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 06 December, 2011, 01:01:08 pm
Despite a WVM's best efforts, the closest most likely to cause an incident pass to me today was executed by a Ninja RLJ cyclist.

T'aint just car drivers, but cars hurt more. Allegedly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 06 December, 2011, 02:18:12 pm
Quote from: jane on 06 December, 2011, 12:41:02 pm

Quote from: Arno on 06 December, 2011, 11:18:41 am
Close fast overtake by a black audi in Leyton (Eastway/ Ruckholt road)  yesterday morning where the road narrows on the bridge over the railway line.
Did catch up at the next traffic light.... woman driver, 6 months pregnant, was courteous enough to open her window and apologise.
Does being pregnant affect your perception of space?


The research is inconclusive.  But even if it wasn't, and it was true, it wouldn't explain the many times that I have been buzzed in this way by a male driver, anyway.  Human beings of both sexes make mistakes while driving (and cycling). Well, human beings make mistakes full stop. That's all I'm sure of.

Are pregnant looking  but sadly male taxi drivers a useful data point?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Karla on 06 December, 2011, 03:25:37 pm
First slippy offy of the winter today.  That cyclepath may have allowed me to cut off a big long gyratory, but the gritted road would presumably been quicker due to lack of icy incidents.  It was a comedy low speed tumble, so no broken wrists this time.  Note to self: let the tyres down and don't grab the front brake. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 06 December, 2011, 03:38:55 pm
Millennium bridge by any chance?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Karla on 06 December, 2011, 03:55:38 pm
No, outside Cycle Heaven.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 06 December, 2011, 04:06:54 pm
Ah, the bits across the bottom of nunnery lane. Busy area, that. Council better get the grit and salt out before they get peds falling over in droves.

You are making me think it would be sensible to roll out the studs tomorrow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 06 December, 2011, 07:24:35 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 06 December, 2011, 04:06:54 pm
Ah, the bits across the bottom of nunnery lane. Busy area, that. Council better get the grit and salt out before they get peds falling over in droves.

You are making me think it would be sensible to roll out the studs tomorrow.
Precisely the reason I got the bus in today - almost went arse-over-tit just getting the bins in, so didn't fancy my chances riding up to Monk's Cross. Such discretion/cowardice was justified when I almost took a tumble getting off the bus  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 06 December, 2011, 07:37:38 pm
IZ,discretion is the better part of valor
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 06 December, 2011, 07:54:40 pm
Quote from: jogler on 06 December, 2011, 07:37:38 pm
IZ,discretion is the better part of valor
Where ice is concerned, it's the only part of valour - I've done myself enough damage this year already, thankyouverymuch :)

Times like this I wish I didn't have to wait until March for Pugsley to turn up ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 06 December, 2011, 08:31:10 pm
Had a lovely ride in today which made up for last night's little incident. I shouldn't gloat but what made it so special was that the whole of the centre of the city was gridlocked - there had been an accident on the motorway and it was closed northbound. This always results in mayhem in the centre as everyone tries to divert through the middle. It was nice to be able to filter from one side of the city to the other with absolutely no other moving traffic - everything else was stationary glued nose to tail. A colleague commented that this must have been one of his slowest car commutes in ever. He covered 1.6 miles in 1 hour 20 min before abandoning the car and walking the last mile in...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 06 December, 2011, 08:33:22 pm
Quote from: SlowCoach on 06 December, 2011, 08:31:10 pm
Had a lovely ride in today which made up for last night's little incident. I shouldn't gloat but what made it so special was that the whole of the centre of the city was gridlocked - there had been an accident on the motorway and it was closed northbound. This always results in mayhem in the centre as everyone tries to divert through the middle. It was nice to be able to filter from one side of the city to the other with absolutely no other moving traffic - everything else was stationary glued nose to tail. A colleague commented that this must have been one of his slowest car commutes in ever. He covered 1.6 miles in 1 hour 20 min before abandoning the car and walking the last mile in...

That, my friend, is what we call Karma  8)

Be sure to capitalise on this tomorrow by extending maximum sympathy to your colleague.  Keep teh smug to yourself.  Thus storing up treasure in heaven for yourself.   ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 06 December, 2011, 08:42:39 pm
Getting very positive feedback from the blingy-lit-up-tree on the back of the bike, from all. Pedestrians, taxi drivers, cyclists. It's fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 06 December, 2011, 09:39:11 pm
The trip home went surprisingly well - few red lights and a slightly better speed.  Legs were moving quite nicely.  Or that may just have been the beer.

Should be home at a decent time tomorrow, so will spend the evening decorating bikes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: artyfaharty on 06 December, 2011, 09:41:13 pm
Spotted a chap in a YACF winter jersey going South over Southwark bridge on a single speed specialized. Would have introduced myself but you were too quick!
Approx 40ish, shortish hair, sans helmet approx 6.15pm ce soir.
AF
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: phantasmagoriana on 06 December, 2011, 10:33:34 pm
First off of the year for me this morning (Millennium Bridge) - wasn't expecting ice at all. Saw another cyclist do the same just afterwards, too. Most people were walking it.

Studded tyres have now gone on!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 06 December, 2011, 10:34:37 pm
How's the bike?  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 06 December, 2011, 10:35:07 pm
MrsCharly reported seeing 3 people crash there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 06 December, 2011, 10:40:45 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 06 December, 2011, 10:35:07 pm
MrsCharly reported seeing 3 people crash there.
Screw it! I'm gonna get me a weekly bus ticket tomorrow ...  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyUncle on 06 December, 2011, 10:41:22 pm
I also saw a police man fall off his bike on the Millennium Bridge this morning and someone else in the office who was just behind me saw four others fall off as well
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 06 December, 2011, 11:02:46 pm
It's A Bridge Under Troubled Water.
by Sermon &  Fartuncle

<Frankie Howard style>
oh please yourself
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 07 December, 2011, 12:31:20 am
Quote from: CrinklyUncle on 06 December, 2011, 10:41:22 pm
I also saw a police man fall off his bike on the Millennium Bridge this morning and someone else in the office who was just behind me saw four others fall off as well

You can't cycle over the wibbly wobbly bridge.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 07 December, 2011, 01:42:31 am
Quote from: spindrift on 07 December, 2011, 12:31:20 am
Quote from: CrinklyUncle on 06 December, 2011, 10:41:22 pm
I also saw a police man fall off his bike on the Millennium Bridge this morning and someone else in the office who was just behind me saw four others fall off as well

You can't cycle over the wibbly wobbly bridge.
London isn't the only place with a millenium bridge you know...

And the York one has a more enlightened attitude to bikes, even if not to de-icing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 07 December, 2011, 01:45:32 am
Driven through by another black cab on Walworth Road this morning. So routine it is hardly worth mentioning apart from it spoiled an otherwise pleasant late night commute.
Title: Re: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mr magnolia on 07 December, 2011, 07:17:15 am
Quote from: Ham on 06 December, 2011, 08:42:39 pm
Getting very positive feedback from the blingy-lit-up-tree on the back of the bike, from all. Pedestrians, taxi drivers, cyclists. It's fun.
Can I see it?  Sounds cool!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 07 December, 2011, 07:42:00 am
Been off the bike for the last two days for health reasons... looks like I'll be driving in again today...  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 07 December, 2011, 09:09:25 am
This week has (so far) been totally uneventful :thumbsup:

I am even experiencing a SEVERAL of incidents of consideration by motons stopping for me to join the major road at junctions, including a white van man this morning :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 07 December, 2011, 09:56:35 am
25mph headwind, gusting to 45mph.

Took a while to get to work this morning.

There was a thread that clearly explained why riding at 10mph into a 20mph headwind isn't as hard as riding at 30mph into no wind. It's obviously true, or I'd be able to do 30mph normally. Can anyone find the thread?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gerwinium on 07 December, 2011, 09:59:27 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 07 December, 2011, 09:56:35 am
There was a thread that clearly explained why riding at 10mph into a 20mph headwind isn't as hard as riding at 30mph into no wind. It's obviously true, or I'd be able to do 30mph normally. Can anyone find the thread?

You are aerodynamic, or more so than a solid wall, so even though the wind goes at 20mph, you don't feel the full force applied upon yourself + bike. Also the faster you go, the more the resistance of tyres on the road plays a role.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 07 December, 2011, 10:08:35 am
Quote from: rower40 on 07 December, 2011, 01:42:31 am
Quote from: spindrift on 07 December, 2011, 12:31:20 am
Quote from: CrinklyUncle on 06 December, 2011, 10:41:22 pm
I also saw a police man fall off his bike on the Millennium Bridge this morning and someone else in the office who was just behind me saw four others fall off as well

You can't cycle over the wibbly wobbly bridge.
London isn't the only place with a millenium bridge you know...

And the York one has a more enlightened attitude to bikes, even if not to de-icing.


Oh, beg your pardon!

 I didn't know Northerners got the Millennium.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 07 December, 2011, 10:17:20 am
Newcastle has a millennium bridge as well.

The key difference between the northern bridges and the london bridge, is that the northerners were capable of building a bridge that stayed up under foot traffic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 07 December, 2011, 10:22:04 am
Quote from: mr magnolia on 07 December, 2011, 07:17:15 am
Quote from: Ham on 06 December, 2011, 08:42:39 pm
Getting very positive feedback from the blingy-lit-up-tree on the back of the bike, from all. Pedestrians, taxi drivers, cyclists. It's fun.
Can I see it?  Sounds cool!

Remembering always that I was the LEAST impressive on Saturday (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=52682.255)....

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5RkkrxLXWIU/Tt8reRfGRPI/AAAAAAAAfmU/KPzXXSaqcWQ/s640/Photo0252.jpg)

(odd  - - I'd either forgot to press "Post" or this was removed..... try again?)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 07 December, 2011, 10:24:05 am
Quote from: gerwinium on 07 December, 2011, 09:59:27 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 07 December, 2011, 09:56:35 am
There was a thread that clearly explained why riding at 10mph into a 20mph headwind isn't as hard as riding at 30mph into no wind. It's obviously true, or I'd be able to do 30mph normally. Can anyone find the thread?

You are aerodynamic, or more so than a solid wall, so even though the wind goes at 20mph, you don't feel the full force applied upon yourself + bike. Also the faster you go, the more the resistance of tyres on the road plays a role.
And rather more significantly, the headwind scenario is what you'd get if you were riding at 30mph in still air and then a travelator started up underneath you at 20mph. Obviously that's a help!

Looked at statically, the power required to keep a constant speed is equal to Force x Velocity, where the Force is needed to oppose the force the wind exerts against you, and Velocity is your rate of movement relative to the object you're exerting force against, namely the ground.

Hence, the power you need to exert goes with the cube of speed, but two of those powers are air speed and one is ground speed. I suspect someone who understood lift could resolve the air speed contribution further and explain why a cross wind makes life tougher, too.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 07 December, 2011, 10:30:23 am
And if you make it very cross it is harder still.

I've always thought that the air just adds or subtracts the force that your bike & body creates, acting like a sail. If air weighed as much as we do, we'd all be in trouble.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 07 December, 2011, 10:31:23 am
I think I've found the answer - air pressure drag. when riding into a 20mph headwind at 10mph, the air pressure drag is similar to no headwind (because the difference between the main airflow and the apparent wind is only 10mph).

Whatever the reason, it was sodding hard work getting in. I just hope the wind is still there for the journey home!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gerwinium on 07 December, 2011, 10:34:14 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 07 December, 2011, 10:31:23 am
Whatever the reason, it was sodding hard work getting in. I just hope the wind is still there for the journey home!

It will, just turned by 180 degrees :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 07 December, 2011, 10:37:02 am
I'm a little sceptical of that line of thinking.  Most likely it's because the 20mph headwind isn't really that due to wind shear and/or differences between measurement somewhere else and the current location.

If the relative windflow really was the same, then the main difference should be only be rolling resistance.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 07 December, 2011, 10:40:26 am
No, look, the speed over the ground matters. Otherwise it would take as much power to stand still in a 30mph wind as to keep at 30mph in still air.

[people are being wrong on the internet]
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 07 December, 2011, 10:47:59 am
I don't care why  headwinds/crosswinds are foul I just want them to stop.  I had to use the granny ring for a couple of miles between Fairford and Poulton this morning just to keep moving.  Awful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 07 December, 2011, 10:52:18 am
From what I read 10 min ago, there are two main sources of drag; direct frictional drag from the air passing over the object (you + bike) and pressure/form drag from the turbulence created by the air wake behind you.

Riding at 10mph with a 20mph headwind, the difference between the main body of air and you is 10mph. So you get the same pressure/form drag as riding at 10mph in still air.

The frictional drag is produced by the friction of the airflow - so is a product of the apparent wind.

So riding at 10mph into 20mph headwind, the drag is (30mph friction drag) + (10mph pressure drag)

Riding at 30mph in still air, the drag is (30mph friction drag) + (30mph pressure drag)

Wendy, trust me. I had 25mph headwinds most of the way this morning. That's why it took me 2hrs to get to work (but I did work out a solution to a bug while I was riding).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 07 December, 2011, 11:06:03 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 07 December, 2011, 10:52:18 am
Riding at 10mph with a 20mph headwind, the difference between the main body of air and you is 10mph. So you get the same pressure/form drag as riding at 10mph in still air.

This bit is wrong - it's 30mph. What counts is your relative wind, which in both cases is the same.  I'm not saying you're wrong in the bigger picture, but this specific item.

I'm thinking power required might lower because distance moved/i.e your speed is less, despite the aerodynamic resistance being the same in both cases (and I'm ignoring rolling resistance).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 07 December, 2011, 11:08:44 am
Quote from: Wendy on 07 December, 2011, 11:06:03 am
I'm thinking power required might lower because distance moved/i.e your speed is less, despite the aerodynamic resistance being the same in both cases (and I'm ignoring rolling resistance).
Is correct.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 07 December, 2011, 11:10:35 am
The test rig:


(http://www.2dayblog.com/images/2007/february/cynosphere_dog_powered_bicycle.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 07 December, 2011, 11:17:30 am
And an alternative way of looking at the problem, again ignoring rolling resistance.  Given that the force required to maintain your speed in both situations is the same at your driven wheel.  One situation will be in a high gear (30mph, still air), and the other (10mph speed, 20mph headwind) in a low gear. Clearly the second situation will require less pedal force because of the lower gear.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 07 December, 2011, 11:22:26 am
Quote from: Wendy on 07 December, 2011, 11:06:03 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 07 December, 2011, 10:52:18 am
Riding at 10mph with a 20mph headwind, the difference between the main body of air and you is 10mph. So you get the same pressure/form drag as riding at 10mph in still air.

This bit is wrong - it's 30mph. What counts is your relative wind, which in both cases is the same.  I'm not saying you're wrong in the bigger picture, but this specific item.
I explained this badly.

The pressure/form drag is produced by (roughly) the difference in velocity between the air behind your body and the surrounding air (plus the aerodynamics of your body).

When riding into a headwind, this difference is your forward speed, not the combined speed of your forward movement + the headwind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 07 December, 2011, 11:26:41 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 07 December, 2011, 11:22:26 am
I explained this badly.

The pressure/form drag is produced by (roughly) the difference in velocity between the air behind your body and the surrounding air (plus the aerodynamics of your body).

When riding into a headwind, this difference is your forward speed, not the combined speed of your forward movement + the headwind.

Ah, no, it doesn't work like that. You need to consider relative wind. Assuming we're ignoring second order effects like windshear, then there's no difference between the two situations.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 07 December, 2011, 11:35:12 am
Also surely spokes slicing into the air on wheels spinning at 30mph must generate more drag than if they spin at 10mph.
edit. I mean the rotation generates relative wind for the spokes themselves on top of the wind due to relative speed of bike against surrounding air.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 07 December, 2011, 11:44:01 am
Quote from: Wendy on 07 December, 2011, 11:26:41 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 07 December, 2011, 11:22:26 am
I explained this badly.

The pressure/form drag is produced by (roughly) the difference in velocity between the air behind your body and the surrounding air (plus the aerodynamics of your body).

When riding into a headwind, this difference is your forward speed, not the combined speed of your forward movement + the headwind.

Ah, no, it doesn't work like that. You need to consider relative wind. Assuming we're ignoring second order effects like windshear, then there's no difference between the two situations.
Relative wind - that's exactly what I'm considering.
Well, Wendy, I'm just repeating stuff I've read.

There are people on here who know a lot more than me. I'll leave it here, and up to you do your own research.

My personal experience is that riding at 10mph into a 20mph wind is not anywhere near as difficult as doing 30mph into still air. The http://www.kreuzotter.de/english/espeed.htm (http://www.kreuzotter.de/english/espeed.htm) seems to agree with me.  752W for 30mph. 246W for 10mph with 20mph headwind.
If you have an explanation for the tripling  of the power, please let us know.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gareth Rees on 07 December, 2011, 11:55:41 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 07 December, 2011, 11:44:01 am
My personal experience is that riding at 10mph into a 20mph wind is not anywhere near as difficult as doing 30mph into still air.

That's exactly right. For a vehicle like a bicycle that propels itself by pushing against the ground, power is proportional to ground speed times air speed squared.

So for riding at 10mph into a 20mph headwind, power is proportional to 10×30×30 = 9000.

For riding at 30mph in still air, power is proportional to 30×30×30 = 27000. Three times the power required.

(You can check this using power × time = work; work = force × distance; and knowing that the force due to drag is proportional to the square of air speed.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 07 December, 2011, 01:13:25 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 07 December, 2011, 10:17:20 am
Newcastle has a millennium bridge as well.

The key difference between the northern bridges and the london bridge, is that the northerners were capable of building a bridge that stayed up under foot traffic.

ITYM, Lundunners were the only ones with foresight to build a bridge that would stay perfectly still if the only traffic on it was bicyles.  What the mayor did with it after that isn't their fault.

(I vaguely recall a programme about the wobbliness being induced by the tramp tramp tramp of feet. Resonant frequencies and all that.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 07 December, 2011, 02:30:46 pm
The Millennium Bridge resonance issue was unusual, but not entirely unique.  Reasonably enough, it hadn't been foreseen by the designers.  It's more involved than more "traditional" resonance, in that as they bridge swayed, people tended to adjust they step to compensate, but it actually made it the resonance worse.


Today was my last commute for a while, since I'll be over the pond for just over a week.  I'll be back in the UK, but probably only have one or two days cycling in before it's Christmas, and I'll be off again.

I'll cycle briefly tomorrow, to take Zev and Kai to the cattery, but then I'll public transport into work, because I'll be carrying a flight instrument back home, to take directly to the airport with me on Friday.

The commute had it's little unusual highlights today.  For the first time I was situated between two trams on the road.  The traffic lights here (http://maps.google.co.uk/?ll=51.377824,-0.102561&spn=0.001113,0.00284&t=h&z=19&vpsrc=6) were broken, and the first tram was waiting to pull across the road, because it needs the entire road width across this junction and there was a refuse lorry coming the other way.  Presumably the tram driver behind me couldn't see this, and actually used his horn on the first tram.  This amused me.

They often use their horns and bells with pedestrians, and as a warning when approaching workmen on the tracks, but it's the first time I've seen one of them get impatient with one of their colleagues!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 07 December, 2011, 03:00:10 pm
Yes, I'm not arguing that you need more power to ride in the 30mph speed/still air scenario, but I am disputing your interpretation of the two examples having different form drag (which you said you'd worked out for yourself). Basically see Gareth Rees's and HTFB's posts. Your aerodynamic drag is the same in both situations, but you're doing more work (and need more power) because your speed is higher in the 30mph speed/still air example. Capiche?

Essentially your overall argument is right, but the reason you gave for it was flawed. Anyway, I'm pretty grateful to you for your posts, they made me think about this in a way I'd not considered and improved my own understanding significantly. Previously I'd only considered the force as being the same, not realising why that makes the power requirements different between the two situations. Thanks!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 07 December, 2011, 03:05:00 pm
Just had a lovely ride to the 'ospital for a scan (nothing serious), and took the 3yo in his burley d'lite trailer, towed behind the MTB. A nice 15 mile ride in the autumn sunshine was just the thing to cheer me up!! He loved it too, and slept the whole way back.

Two fun things - on both the out and the return I saw some kids getting Bromley BikeAbility training, and riding very nicely they were under the instruction of two lady trainers from the council. Lovely!! Then I got a shout and a wave from a chap polishing his car on the way out, and he called out on the way back, having recognised me from my youtube channel. Turns out he is a 320 bus driver (who are the awesomes of note), and we chatted for ages.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 07 December, 2011, 05:49:58 pm
Roadie tried to take me on Kennington Road, this morning, heading up to E&C.  After a bit, he settled for drafting me.  "Damn, you've got some spin in you" was his comment at the junction before he fell back.  Cheered up my morning, anyway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: phantasmagoriana on 07 December, 2011, 06:54:40 pm
First commute of the season on studded tyres (of course, they weren't needed as the ice was gone ::-)). I'd forgotten how slow they were! :o

After (eventually) getting home tonight, I decided I should pump them up to the maximum pressure. The rear tube's just blown. It's not been a good week so far! >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 07 December, 2011, 08:04:18 pm
Hard, hard commute home over the Peaks this evening...
WNW on the nose headwind gusting gale force most of the way. Large patches of redisual snow on leeward hills above 300m. Cold!
On one bit I had to use the granny (30x27) on the flat to make headway!
Coming onto Lodge Moor along Fulwood Lane, I noticed the telltale crystaline reflections off the road indicating it was staring to freeze up. Then felt the rear wheel losing traction. Slow and tricky descent of Roper Hill (1:7) and careful negotiation of the rest of the roads home.
1h50 for the 22 miles - slowest trip home for a very long time....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 07 December, 2011, 08:24:12 pm
I came across a "Cyclists Dismount" sign at some roadworks, so I folded it up and put it in the gutter. If it is back tomorrow it's getting confiscated.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 07 December, 2011, 08:26:26 pm
Quote from: artyfaharty on 06 December, 2011, 09:41:13 pm
Spotted a chap in a YACF winter jersey going South over Southwark bridge on a single speed specialized. Would have introduced myself but you were too quick!
Approx 40ish, shortish hair, sans helmet approx 6.15pm ce soir.
AF

If it was an orange YACF top that was probably me (I'll bank the extra 10 years :-)).  My work location has just changed from the City to Trafalgar Square so I'm experimenting with different routes home. I've been coming over Southwark Bridge in the mornings but that was the first time I'd tried it southbound and I wasn't sure about the road layout with that segregated section down the left, so I was pushing it in case I got any hassle from the next wave of motons for not being in the cycle lane. 

The bridge and the rest of the ride home was good but getting to it was a bit of a pain (Embankment, Blackfriars, Queen Victoria Street, etc). Ideally, I'd turn right off Lower Thames St, but I reckon that could be a bit hairy if the traffic is moving swiftly.  So I'll probably stick to what I tried tonight, which was Tower Bridge. 

But do shout if you spot me again!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 07 December, 2011, 08:30:46 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 07 December, 2011, 03:05:00 pm
Just had a lovely ride to the 'ospital for a scan (nothing serious), and took the 3yo in his burley d'lite trailer, towed behind the MTB. A nice 15 mile ride in the autumn sunshine was just the thing to cheer me up!! He loved it too, and slept the whole way back.

Two fun things - on both the out and the return I saw some kids getting Bromley BikeAbility training, and riding very nicely they were under the instruction of two lady trainers from the council. Lovely!! Then I got a shout and a wave from a chap polishing his car on the way out, and he called out on the way back, having recognised me from my youtube channel. Turns out he is a 320 bus driver (who are the awesomes of note), and we chatted for ages.

Oh, I forgot to mention that the bus driver said he'd met Dan, the Subaru driver, in the local garage one day and asked him if he knew he was on YouTube. Apparently Dan said he didn't know that. *snigger*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 07 December, 2011, 11:27:21 pm
Somewhere between The City and Croydon I lost a Cateye LD1100. If you find it and it still works, good luck to you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 08 December, 2011, 02:35:02 am
Another. I'm fed up with the Walworth Road and taxi drivers. Enjoyed having some company climbing up to Crystal Palace though, another cyclist sprinted onto my wheel after I passed him. Cheery cyclists are far preferable to callous cabbies.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 08 December, 2011, 05:43:40 am
That wind was soul destroying yesterday.  I haven't spent so long on the drops for ages.
The tail wind home was so intense that I had to watch the extra speed it generated - particularly on some of my fast corners.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 08 December, 2011, 06:23:37 am
Riding up through Covent Garden, along Garrick St, a cabbie who had just dropped off his fare, pulled out without looking properly.  I had to swerve slightly to avoid him.  He pulled up alongside me at the lights and wound down his window.  I  employed my best "I'm ignoring you" body language, expecting some anti cyclist cabbie invective.  (I rarely get involved in arguments with drivers these days, if I can help it). He smiled at me and said, 'Sorry. I should have checked again back there."  "Yes, you should" I replied, trying not to look as gobsmacked as I felt, "but I've had worse and no harm done.  Not this time anyway."  We had a wee chat about cycling on London streets.  We both agreed that Boris should do more to get private vehicles off the streets and onto public transport and bicycles.  He was not opposed to a lower speed limit on the bridges as he believed jams to be his biggest problem.  We shared a mutual moan about cars with one occupant who obviously hasn't a clue about how to get round London.
     As the lights changed, we parted with a wave, a cheery smile and a "take care out there". 
     I rode off, wondering if I had ridden right  through a blip in the time space continuum into an alternative reality.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 08 December, 2011, 06:41:47 am
I encountered a peculiar sight on the park leg yesterday morning.  Woman with two dogs, both wearing H--Vi doggie jackets....it's 'elf 'n safety gawn mad I tell yer.

Still, at least she had spared them the blinky collar lights.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: why1040 on 08 December, 2011, 06:49:05 am
When I cycle with the Astrapuppy, she wears a hi-viz too.  Ditto if I take her out when I'm riding my horse (and we'll also be kitted out in full hi-viz then).  It's an unusual enough sight that I want her to be a little extra visible.  I've been known to stick a hi-viz on her when walking her after dark too so that she can be seen in plenty of time.  Dogs move differently to people and sometimes pedestrians, cars and bikes don't expect them to be where they are.  Also, no matter how much I trust that she will behave, come when called and stick to me, there's always the possibility that something may happen and she'll be separated from me.  As she's black and shaggy, she disappears into the background very easily indeed!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mr magnolia on 08 December, 2011, 06:55:57 am
Dog blinkies make sense to me on cycle paths in the dark. Easy to spot, and sometimes of some help in the guessing game of 'is that rustling over there in the bush connected to that person there by an invisible stretchy dog lead?'
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mr magnolia on 08 December, 2011, 08:05:24 am
Instructed off bike by family, now sitting grumpily on a bus...
Waiting for Armageddon to strike east central Scotland,schools closing at 12.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Juan Martín on 08 December, 2011, 08:36:59 am
'morning Joan, 11 minutes late, operating incident at Minster.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 08 December, 2011, 09:15:41 am
'Incident' 1- was in mind wandering mode and perusing a reflective sign visible through a hedge at the side of the road when I suddenly realised the sign was on the other side of a rapidly approaching sharp bend to the left :o

Concentrate you shagging prat fuzzy ::-)

'Incident' 2- vistation to front wheel resulting in slow deflation. To dark to deal with puncture so stopped and reinflated 4 times before getting to work 20 minutes late.

Worse things could have (and have) happened.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 08 December, 2011, 09:26:25 am
Riding in was the easy bit.  NWesterly is pretty much a tailwind and it wasn't raining.  For going home time the wind is supposedly stronger, Westerly and it will be raining
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 08 December, 2011, 09:35:08 am
Quick release rod fell from the Bagman on arrival at work this morning and one of the small metal pin used as handles (press fitted)was nowhere to be seen...  Thankfully its still under waranty.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 08 December, 2011, 09:45:58 am
The little handles screw in - phone carradice, they'll send you replacements FoC.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 08 December, 2011, 10:06:20 am
Had company riding in for most of my route today, so got to have a nice chat for a change. Very pleasant.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 08 December, 2011, 10:28:12 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 08 December, 2011, 09:45:58 am
The little handles screw in - phone carradice, they'll send you replacements FoC.
In my version they're pressed... there is no thread in the rod.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 08 December, 2011, 10:40:15 am
Quote from: Arno on 08 December, 2011, 10:28:12 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 08 December, 2011, 09:45:58 am
The little handles screw in - phone carradice, they'll send you replacements FoC.
In my version they're pressed... there is no thread in the rod.
That's wierd - and sounds so wrong. It doesn't sound right at all.

When I phoned, they posted out a set of replacement springs, the rod and the handle, FoC, for both sides. I reassembled with locktite and haven't had any problems since.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: niggle on 08 December, 2011, 10:53:25 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 08 December, 2011, 09:26:25 am
Riding in was the easy bit.  NWesterly is pretty much a tailwind and it wasn't raining.  For going home time the wind is supposedly stronger, Westerly and it will be raining
Ditto to all the above. Balmy 11°C temperature does compensate a bit though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 08 December, 2011, 10:58:04 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 08 December, 2011, 10:40:15 am
Quote from: Arno on 08 December, 2011, 10:28:12 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 08 December, 2011, 09:45:58 am
The little handles screw in - phone carradice, they'll send you replacements FoC.
In my version they're pressed... there is no thread in the rod.
That's wierd - and sounds so wrong. It doesn't sound right at all.

When I phoned, they posted out a set of replacement springs, the rod and the handle, FoC, for both sides. I reassembled with locktite and haven't had any problems since.

They might do the same to me... this link http://pardo.net/bike/pic/fail-035/000.html  mentions changes in 2009 from screwed to press-fit pins.

edit: within 12 minutes of me leaving a message on their website, Margaret had emailed me an offer to send spares FoC!  First class customerservice as mentioned a number of times on this forum. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 08 December, 2011, 11:15:16 am
Quote from: Arno on 08 December, 2011, 10:58:04 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 08 December, 2011, 10:40:15 am
Quote from: Arno on 08 December, 2011, 10:28:12 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 08 December, 2011, 09:45:58 am
The little handles screw in - phone carradice, they'll send you replacements FoC.
In my version they're pressed... there is no thread in the rod.
That's wierd - and sounds so wrong. It doesn't sound right at all.

When I phoned, they posted out a set of replacement springs, the rod and the handle, FoC, for both sides. I reassembled with locktite and haven't had any problems since.

They might do the same to me... this link http://pardo.net/bike/pic/fail-035/000.html  mentions changes in 2009 from screwed to press-fit pins.

edit: within 12 minutes of me leaving a message on their website, Margaret had emailed me an offer to send spares FoC!  First class customerservice as mentioned a number of times on this forum. :thumbsup:
That change is about the setscrews that hold the support frame in place, not the handles on the QR.

Interesting site, lots of useful info, thanks for the link.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 08 December, 2011, 11:20:28 am
Quote from: jane on 08 December, 2011, 06:23:37 am
I rode off, wondering if I had ridden right  through a blip in the time space continuum into an alternative reality.

Had a similarly pleasant surprise encounter with a cabbie this morning. As I turned left off a main road onto a side street, I had to brake to avoid running into a cabbie who was doing a U-turn. No biggie from my point of view, didn't think he'd done anything particularly egregious, so I waved him on... But he leaned out of his window, apologised and insisted I go first! So I smiled, thanked him, and went on my way.

All this courtesy on London's streets... What is the world coming to?  ;D

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 08 December, 2011, 11:30:00 am
Quote
That change is about the setscrews that hold the support frame in place, not the handles on the QR.

Interesting site, lots of useful info, thanks for the link.
mmm ok.

Here are the instructions I got from Carradice:
Quote
I'll get it in the post today Arnout.
‎ 
They just push in - you will probably need to put the clamp in a vice and hold the pin with pliers ‎then knock it in with a hammer.
‎ 
Kind regards
‎ 
Margaret

They must  have changed the design a bit.



Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 08 December, 2011, 12:59:21 pm
I thought the 15 miles of headwind was not that bad this morning. Then I arrived at work and realised I was dripping with sweat and was 15 minutes late.  Still should be a fast ride home this evening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 08 December, 2011, 01:01:47 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 08 December, 2011, 11:20:28 am
Quote from: jane on 08 December, 2011, 06:23:37 am
I rode off, wondering if I had ridden right  through a blip in the time space continuum into an alternative reality.

Had a similarly pleasant surprise encounter with a cabbie this morning. As I turned left off a main road onto a side street, I had to brake to avoid running into a cabbie who was doing a U-turn. No biggie from my point of view, didn't think he'd done anything particularly egregious, so I waved him on... But he leaned out of his window, apologised and insisted I go first! So I smiled, thanked him, and went on my way.

All this courtesy on London's streets... What is the world coming to?  ;D

d.

To be fair, most of my experiences are like this. People are generally very nice, but the problem is that it also doesn't take very long to encounter several thousand drivers on a long London commute, and usually at least one of those will be cockwombles. I reckon all the niceness way more than makes up for the minority.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 08 December, 2011, 02:01:24 pm
Rode in on Mrs. Hall's Trek folder. Still a great laugh.

Stuck in a jam a 100 yards from work (a bit of roadworks/traffic light induced local gridlock), a fag end comes flying out of a window from a car stuck in the other direction lane.

Time passes and the traffic inches forward. She's now opposite me, window open.

"Excuse me" I say
She looks at me
"Has your car got an ash tray?"
Blanks me. Stares straight ahead
"Ooh" I say "The funny looking cyclist is talking to me"
Blanks me. Stares ahead more.

And then the lights changed and I went on my way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 08 December, 2011, 02:24:38 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 08 December, 2011, 02:01:24 pm
"Has your car got an ash tray?""I believe this belongs to you" (flick recovered dog-end thru window, ride on)

FTFY :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 08 December, 2011, 08:02:47 pm
Rainlegs were put to good use for the torrential ride home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 08 December, 2011, 08:07:07 pm
Quote from: iddu on 08 December, 2011, 02:24:38 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 08 December, 2011, 02:01:24 pm
"Has your car got an ash tray?""I believe this belongs to you" (flick recovered dog-end thru window, ride on)

FTFY :demon:

Denizen of urc, and Lewisham cyclist, Tom Crispin once batted one back, in a reflex kind of way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: niggle on 08 December, 2011, 08:27:32 pm
All that standing water on the way home, I would have been better off paddling rather than pedalling  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: corshamjim on 08 December, 2011, 08:31:07 pm
It was a rough ride home even down here in Wiltshire.  I dread to think what it's been like oop north.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 08 December, 2011, 08:36:41 pm
Indeed - in fact I think I actually went backwards* at one point.








*possibly a slight exaggeration.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CamPhil on 09 December, 2011, 12:45:15 am
Quote from: tonycollinet on 08 December, 2011, 08:36:41 pm
Indeed - in fact I think I actually went backwards* at one point.



*possibly a slight exaggeration.

I did once manage that on short finals to land in a Cessna 152 into a strong headwind.
I don't believe it's possible to do a shorter landing in a fixed wing aircraft than I managed that day - I only needed the brakes to avoid going backwards (again).
Title: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 09 December, 2011, 02:16:16 am
It was extremely blowy and raining heavily when I left the office, so I decided against my usual ride to Bromley. The short hop to Victoria was quite hard enough work - it was bad enough that I felt the need to stick to back streets to avoid mixing with cars in those conditions.

The train got as far as Gillingham (after a lengthy delay at Rochester) before we were all turfed off due to another train having hit a fallen tree on the line ahead. There was supposed to be a replacement bus service but I didn't fancy trying to get my bike on the bus, especially as there were rather a lot of fellow passengers (looked like about six trains worth), mostly not in a good mood, and no sign of the promised buses.

And so I rode the last 30 miles home.

Fortunately, by then, it had at least stopped raining and the wind had calmed a little, but it was still pretty strong. Even more fortunately, it was a southwesterly and I was heading east, so I got the benefit of a strong tailwind.

I didn't realise quite how strong it was until I missed a turning and had to double back for a short way, and was almost blown to a standstill by the now-headwind.

Eventually got home at 11.30, only four and a half hours after leaving work.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 09 December, 2011, 09:12:35 am
The wind this morning was not nice, temperature robbing and energy sapping.  Just the sort of bonus you want for Friday legs.

Still, having gained a pound this week I guess I deserve to be punished.  :-[

It also appears that the pre-Christmas moton madness has started in earnest.  I had to use the shine of persuasion a few times to discourage parallel turns of wank (TM).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 09 December, 2011, 09:26:46 am
Ride home last night was pretty grim.  Into a strong headwind with rain.  It was more energy sapping and cold and slow than positively dangerous...UNTIL I came off a hill with my right eye so full of water that it hurt.  I then crossed a hump back bridge at a pinch point and the car coming the other way decided to keep on coming.  I wasn't going to stop.  We missed each other by inches and he shouted "wanker"

Gloves/shoes were still too wet to use this morning despite hanging next to the fire all night
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 09 December, 2011, 08:13:53 pm
Ride in was chilly - as was the ride home.
177 miles this week on the fixed for 8789 calories. 
I am looking forward to no riding on Saturday and Sunday for a change.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Titan yer Tummy on 10 December, 2011, 06:59:01 am
Quote from: citoyen on 08 December, 2011, 11:20:28 am
Had a similarly pleasant surprise encounter with a cabbie this morning. As I turned left off a main road onto a side street, I had to brake to avoid running into a cabbie who was doing a U-turn. No biggie from my point of view, didn't think he'd done anything particularly egregious, so I waved him on... But he leaned out of his window, apologised and insisted I go first! So I smiled, thanked him, and went on my way.

All this courtesy on London's streets... What is the world coming to?  ;D

d.

Please report this to the police. There can be little doubt that the cab was stolen ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 10 December, 2011, 12:54:40 pm
Commute home last night - first all week with no headwind. Ironically, the first night of the week where I *didn't* have Friday Legs
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 10 December, 2011, 03:13:45 pm
Worst commute home for a long while....
1 mile from work my chain broke. One of the side plates had snapped and bent out snagging the rear derailleur, snapping its hanger, pulling it into the spokes and causing a nice little wheel stopping wrap of chain and bent bits....
10 minutes to dismantle everything. Shortened the chain to fit on middle ring and sutiable cassette sprocket (40x17) which should have done me the 13 miles home OK. 25 yards later, however and "pling" there goes the chain again - no more chain links available to fix it so I call in the cavalry (my son is home from Uni and able to pick me up)
Cue 40 minutes of stomping around trying to keep warm...
The frame has only done 1400km and looks a little worse for wear....  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 10 December, 2011, 09:17:35 pm
Bummer.
What do you think caused it to go so early?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 12 December, 2011, 09:11:01 am
Onna van from a firm called Fruitdrop (unsurprisingly fruit, delivered):

"No bananas left in this vehicle overnight"

Christmas tree, now with added fairy goodness, continues to attract positive comments.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 12 December, 2011, 12:29:22 pm
First commute for 2 weeks after being exiled to the cardiff office, by heck thats better, puts a whole different light on the day, gone a lot colder in those two weeks though
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 12 December, 2011, 03:05:08 pm
Brief scary slip going round a corner this morning. In retrospect, it was almost certainly oil, but it did give me a shock!
I'll drop the front tyre pressure a tad though.
almost every road I used today was in the shade and wet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 12 December, 2011, 08:00:21 pm
Wind is back, and has brought his friend Rain to play.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 12 December, 2011, 09:57:33 pm
Rainlegs and Montane journey home.  Horizontal bloody rain due to the wind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 12 December, 2011, 10:06:12 pm
Quote from: alexb on 12 December, 2011, 03:05:08 pm
Brief scary slip going round a corner this morning. In retrospect, it was almost certainly oil, but it did give me a shock!
I'll drop the front tyre pressure a tad though.
almost every road I used today was in the shade and wet.
A huge amount of oil on the quieter roads round here today, for some reason.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 13 December, 2011, 12:56:33 am
Wet and very windy. Blown to a standstill on a couple of occasions and from the sounds of it I might have managed to find a bit of a lull, indeed at the highest point of my ride the wind dropped to absolute calm for a moment.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 13 December, 2011, 05:53:42 am
It is not calm now !!  An 18mph headwind is awaiting my journey to work with gusts upto 33mph.  Deep joy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 13 December, 2011, 09:00:29 am
Last night coming home into a headwind with rain wasn't as bad as Friday night.
I was pooped out though.  Mrs V said I'd got home quicker than normal so maybe I just over did it.
This morning started off cold and bright with wet ground but no clouds.  But by I'd got to Taunton it was raining again

I keep having to take the Cateye TL1100 off the back of the bike to dry it out.  Water gets in the switch and it won't turn off
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 13 December, 2011, 09:10:06 am
Respect to all those who cycled in this morning.  With the wind I felt on the short walk to the tube station I think I may have been cycling at walking pace, at best.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 13 December, 2011, 09:25:34 am
Quote from: Andrij on 13 December, 2011, 09:10:06 am
Respect to all those who cycled in this morning. 

Disappointed  ;)

Looking at it hooning down at 3am, thought "today's gonna be fun, inna all Gods are bastards kinda way", but by 7am it was brilliant sunshine and clear skies; just a 15-degree list crossing the Ridgeway.

'pect it'll make up for it on the way home ;D
Title: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 13 December, 2011, 09:30:50 am
Beautiful morning in Kent. Wind and rain both disappeared without trace. Pleasantly mild temperature-wise too. Quite a contrast to my ride home yesterday evening.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 13 December, 2011, 10:07:44 am
I hummed and hawed and ended up being a wuss; at 6:30 couldn't see what was out there and heard of the bow underpass flooding, but it didn't seem that bad, and now it's lovely.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 13 December, 2011, 10:18:05 am
It was a bit windy here too.  But....

A first York no 7 bus followed me all the way down Fulford Road from the lights at Heslington lane to well after the pedestrian light, staying well back in a very non-hassly way, before overtaking sensibly once I got past the endless parked cars and was finally able to get safely over to the left.  Despite me being a bit sluggardly.

Then an HGV didn't attempt to pass me in the face of oncoming traffic a hundred or so yards further on, and hung right back all the way to the right turn from Naburn lane.

Then an oncoming white van stopped, in the slow moving but nonetheless moving, traffic heading into town to let me turn right into Naburn lane.

The world has gone mad.  But in a good way  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 13 December, 2011, 11:04:07 am
There was a bit of a breeze this morning, and a lot of sticks on the floor, but a really clear light blue sky and warm light just coming over the downs. First commute for weeks, but a really nice one.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 13 December, 2011, 11:45:56 am
Well I've looked at the weather forecast and decided that this week's a washout as far as cycling is concerned.  Nearly lost it a couple of times inbound on frosty roads yesterday  (there are times when I wish I could fit something fatter than a 23) and we've got filthy sleet/hail and gusty winds at the moment.  Just not worth the risk of damaging the bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 13 December, 2011, 12:30:33 pm
Wind and Hail for me.  It stings.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 13 December, 2011, 12:38:34 pm
I can second that.  Only had a couple of minute's worth but I was going into it and it hurt.

When I was woken at 1am and again at 4:30 by a mighty howling of wind, I fully expected to leave the bike behind for the first commute since the ice and snow of January. But by 6:00 it had calmed and my journey, though slow into the wind, was not too bad, and there was no rain.  Just the hail, but that bounced off.

I am really enjoying the comfort provided by my Paramo jacket and my new Shimano MT60 boots, though the latter have had to deal with nothing more than showers so far, rather than a complete drenching.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 13 December, 2011, 01:00:27 pm
Yep! it was hard work this morning, pretty much my whole commute (13 miles) was into the wind.  Should be good going home though  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 13 December, 2011, 05:41:42 pm
No wind here, but I ended up riding on compressed hail, having set out under blue sky. The hail wasn't washed away in the car tyre tracks like it usually is, it was compressed into ice. There was actually a surprising amount of grip where it wasn't compressed - and noticeably increased rolling resistance. But I admit I chickened out down one steep hill! Probably I was overcautious - I often am  :-\  - but OTOH I did prove to myself it's quite possible to lock up the wheels with a little dab of the brake and almost lose the whole bike - while walking up the garden path!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 13 December, 2011, 06:26:01 pm
It was so windy that I came to a virtual halt in the park and well, just wobbled. Relativistically, I think was going quite fast. Then I got teased by a wren. The bird, not a time travelling lady from WWII. Settled in front of my bike, and then kept hopping ahead of me and tweeting what was evidently some kind of slur on my cycling abilities.

OK, it could have been doing the Rocky / Apollo Creed Eye-of-the-Tiger encouragement thing. Which would be cooler than liquid helium in a fridge. Imagine that, Action Jackson giving me cycling advice via the medium of a small avian presence. My day just got 16.3 times better.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 13 December, 2011, 09:49:01 pm
That might be a candidate for POTD.



Tonight there was wind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Snakehips on 13 December, 2011, 09:56:55 pm
Quote from: tonycollinet on 13 December, 2011, 09:49:01 pm
That might be a candidate for POTD.


Yeah , I'll have a pint of what he's drinking.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 13 December, 2011, 10:30:53 pm
Tailwind almost all the way home.  W'haaay  ;D

(we won't talk about this morning.  Dutch hills.  Big time.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JJ on 13 December, 2011, 10:52:33 pm
Beautiful blue skies as I got the bike out.  Small cloud appeared as I went back into the house for a moment.  By the time I  came out again it was raining.  Blue skies to the left.  Blue skies to the right.  Big black cloud directly overhead, that kept pace with me all the way to work like a roadrunner cartoon only wetter.

Ram the air down your throat headwind on the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 14 December, 2011, 06:47:39 am
It's now hammering down wet sleet - lovely.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 14 December, 2011, 07:09:36 am
One mile into this morning's commute, it was painfully obvious that I hadn't recovered from three days of lurgy as I thought. So I turned round, rode home at 5 mph and climbed back into bed to warm up.
I'm just about to set out again, this time in the car.  Oh the shame... Oh the shame...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 14 December, 2011, 07:11:16 am
Quote from: Gordy on 14 December, 2011, 07:09:36 am
One mile into this morning's commute, it was painfully obvious that I hadn't recovered from three days of lurgy as I thought. So I turned round, rode home at 5 mph and climbed back into bed to warm up.
I'm just about to set out again, this time in the car.  Oh the shame... Oh the shame...

Hand your 'Proud and Slightly Loony Cyclist' badge in at the desk....




 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 14 December, 2011, 08:01:25 am
Yesterday was hard.  At one stage I came to a standstill and nearly had a clipless moment as I wobbled sideways as I wasn't moving forwards - then normal service resumed.  I was in a rare open area and the wind was 100% head on.
Last night I worked a lot of overtime and was so tired I actually considered sleeping at work.  Mrs G wasn't impressed so I rode home and took advantage of the tail wind  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dinamo on 14 December, 2011, 08:12:02 am
Quote from: Andrij on 13 December, 2011, 09:10:06 am
Respect to all those who cycled

..... this week !

The wind and rain lashing against front of house each morning this week so far has meant l have driven to work each day  :(

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 14 December, 2011, 08:12:44 am
One or two scary moments in the lanes this morning, made a left off Paddock lane and heard that horrible crunchy sound that breaking ice makes, that woke me up, should really have ridden the MTB but hey-ho.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 14 December, 2011, 09:22:51 am
there was the chance of black ice on the cyclepath this morning, so I thought "what the heck, I need to see how bad it is sometime" and rode in on the mercian with marathon winters.

It's not the best bike for riding into headwinds. The mudguards are the widest available in the world and have an effect rather like those parachutes used by drag cars. Still, I found that, when out of the wind, I could keep up 15mph on the Marathon Winters. Plus I did manage to find some black ice - but only realised when I looked down on it. Couldn't feel any difference between it and bare tarmac, so the tyres were doing their job.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 14 December, 2011, 09:26:44 am
Only 14% of cycle commuters do a year-round commute, I read. Not properly cold in Norfolk yet, I set off wrapped up then undo the jacket after a couple of miles cos it's too warm. Not cold enough for hats yet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 14 December, 2011, 12:46:40 pm
I donated my spare tube to a guy who was otherwise going to nurse (constantly inflate) a slow puncture for the 10 remaining miles to Nottingham, in wild wind and rain.

Dear universe - please note and credit my karma account with the requisite points.

Yes, I know. But I'm slightly less in the red now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 14 December, 2011, 12:56:36 pm
In Pontyclun I was subjected to an uncomfortable burst of hail. It turned the roads white but the traffic soon cleared a path which I followed. I got the occasional spray on the legs when a car's tyre ran over the white area beside me.  The real problem began at Llanharan. There has been road works in Bryncae for about a month.  The give and take single file traffic lights resulted in queuing traffic.  This is not normally a problem I just ride down the outside of the stopped traffic ducking in when something wide approaches.  However the slow moving traffic had compressed the hail into a sheet of ice. I quickly decided that the rough middle of the road near oncoming traffic on ice was for braver souls than me and sat in the queue.  After a while I had enough and rode along the pavement  :demon: for a while.  I met pedestrians so dismounted and pushed the bike past the road works.  A bit of ice at the Pencoed roundabouts but nothing to worry about.

 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 14 December, 2011, 12:57:48 pm
I drove in today (as I have to go out for a meeting in another county later).

Saw a cyclist left hooked by the car in front of me.  Thankfully, he wasn't hurt (apart from cuts and bruises) but the driver got out and started having a go.  I stuck my hazards on, got out and gave the driver a right earful.  Being a largeish chap (although I have lost weight) the driver soon STFU.  Gave my details to the cyclist, who was reporting the matter to the police.  I indicated I'd be happy to provide a statement and that the driver had clearly been driving carelessly/without due care and attention.

Then got on my way to work, s I was running a bit late for a meeting.  As I went up the High Street, a little old lady was coming the other way in a car - with a front tyre that was completely flat and beginning to shred.  The noise was very obvious and she must have been stone deaf to not notice it.  I tried to catch her attention but she was peering myopically straight ahead and hanging onto the steering wheel with grim determination...  :facepalm:

Things tend to come in threes - so I dread what my drive home tonight will bring... :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 14 December, 2011, 01:40:43 pm
Quote from: Regulator on 14 December, 2011, 12:57:48 pm
Saw a cyclist left hooked by the car in front of me.  Thankfully, he wasn't hurt (apart from cuts and bruises) but the driver got out and started having a go.  I stuck my hazards on, got out and gave the driver a right earful.

Good on you, greg
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 14 December, 2011, 01:41:51 pm
Intriguing!

We'll wait for the continuation of this Christmas story tomorrow morning boys and girls. Reg's I mean… not Mr Charly's.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 14 December, 2011, 02:19:55 pm
Nice one Reg, you're a gent!!!!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: niggle on 14 December, 2011, 02:21:30 pm
Yesterday pm it was hailing hard as I got into my gear to ride home, so I popped my new Carradice Pro Route helmet cover on. The hail stopped and was only an issue under wheel to the end of the hospital exit road, then I had to remove the cover at the top of the first hill due to boiling brain syndrome. Had to do the same again this morning after the threatened rain held off until I was safely in work, but still I feel sure I will get some use out of it soon  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 14 December, 2011, 03:15:56 pm
Assos t-roubaix tights are insufficient for 30mph head on sleet.
The denier is too thin.
= cold cock.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 14 December, 2011, 03:34:11 pm
lol.

Keep your old, going-transparent summer shorts and wear them under the tights for a double layer.

Also, a spare thick sock in the saddlebag. It can be a real lifesaver.  Does MrsGrub knit?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 14 December, 2011, 03:38:11 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 14 December, 2011, 03:34:11 pm
lol.

Keep your old, going-transparent summer shorts and wear them under the tights for a double layer.

Also, a spare thick sock in the saddlebag. It can be a real lifecocksaver.  Does MrsGrub knit?

FTFY ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 14 December, 2011, 10:13:17 pm
 ;D I will just wear the right tights next time  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 15 December, 2011, 09:20:05 am
I like a joke as much as the next man, but the wind this morning was taking diabolical liberties.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 15 December, 2011, 09:40:28 am
Fortunately, no wind here in the Frozen North.
Took advantage of the calm before the strorm, and did a commute in today.

Avoided the steep high ground, since I did a reccy by car yesterday, and the steep half-mile either side of the summit was very icy,  with several cars and vans scrabbling around sideways trying to find traction.   I got out at the summit and had an experimental wander about, and could hardly stand up in the car-park it was so icy.  I saw no other vehicles actually reach the summit whilst I was there.

-1 when I set off, and snowing lightly on the Auchenblae road.
Road very icy in places, but no mis-haps.
Slow progress, though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Morrisette on 15 December, 2011, 09:55:05 am
Quote from: spindrift on 14 December, 2011, 09:26:44 am
Only 14% of cycle commuters do a year-round commute, I read. Not properly cold in Norfolk yet, I set off wrapped up then undo the jacket after a couple of miles cos it's too warm. Not cold enough for hats yet.

Is that right? Well I am one of the [counts on fingers] 86% then! I managed to do the commute until december 5th which is the latest I've ever done it. Sorry to say that in Suffolk I am wearing a hat - mind you I am always cold (just ask Mr M). In my defence, when I get the train I still have to cycle 9 miles, and on my station BSO, so it's not all a nice relaxing sit down in the warm. Plus some sickly commuter gave me the lurg on Tuesday. Yeeeuach!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 15 December, 2011, 10:27:09 am
I am leaving the house just before dawn at the moment.  Today I had the full monochrome effect riding up the lane to Culmstock, some light but not enough for colour and trees with no leaves black against the grey sky.  There was enough cloud to not have any actual sunrise as such, it just got more like day.

Tailwind in and little rain so quite an easy ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 15 December, 2011, 10:49:24 am
Quote from: Gandalf on 15 December, 2011, 09:20:05 am
I like a joke as much as the next man, but the wind this morning was taking diabolical liberties.

Totally agree.  Horrendous.  At least I wore the correct winter tights today - no cold issues today.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 15 December, 2011, 11:16:37 am
Oh for pete's sake.

I puncture, stop, blast, marathon winters aren't easy to get off/on, blast I dont' have a spare tube. Find hawthorn. Remove with pliers. Get out new, unopened tube of glue . . . out of tube comes water stuff and brown goop. Use it anyway, what choice do I have. Patch seems to stick, set up. 1 mile down road, tyre is flat again. Try again, taking great care, fingers freezing, it's -1. No go.
Tadcaster and cyclesense shop is 2 miles away if I climb embankment to minor road - so I do so. Get to shop - it doesn't open until 10. Sit on step, resigned to waiting.
9:30ish, shop door opens "Are you ok, got everything you need?" (I've taken wheel off and tube out). They invite me into the warm workshop, get me an inner tube, 15 min later I'm on my way again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 15 December, 2011, 12:18:03 pm
Last night I could see a cars lights behind me in places on a sweepy, narrow descent & he was just behind me at the start of the next climb.  Anyways there's a left turn a little way up the climb & most cars turn that way so I gave it some welly, got past the turn & he was still behind me so I carried on until there was a place I could pull over for him to pass.  I clocked myself at 25mph up the climb (there was a bit of a tailwind).  When I stopped the driver pulled over, unwound his widow, gave me the thumbs up & said fair play mate  :)
I would have said something back but for some reason was unable to respond at the time  ;)   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 15 December, 2011, 12:34:57 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 15 December, 2011, 11:16:37 am

I puncture, stop, blast, marathon winters aren't easy to get off/on, blast I dont' have a spare tube. Find hawthorn. Remove with pliers.


Same thing happened to me last year so I put tube sealant in - worked a treat.  I used half per tube ( front and back ).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 15 December, 2011, 12:41:47 pm
Had a silly revvy overtake by an Audi A3, 5 minutes later I pass him and a couple of dozen other cars queueing at roadworks. I may cycle in a Santa hat tomorrow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 15 December, 2011, 09:51:45 pm
It was easy both ways  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 15 December, 2011, 10:10:08 pm
My commute was short - not even a couple of miles each way.  And there was ice.  But not much, and I didn't fall off.  That's the last commute of the year done - getting a lift tomorrow...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: trio25 on 15 December, 2011, 10:13:26 pm
Met a collegue a couple of miles from home and we rode the rest of the way in (14miles) off-road on cross bikes with panniers. Way home i reversed although on my own as I finish earlier.

Perfect! Repeating tomorrow since I'm working at the office again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RJ on 15 December, 2011, 10:23:55 pm
Icy on the way home, in a slightly sphincter-clenching sort of way - but I stayed gingerly upright  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 16 December, 2011, 06:06:13 am
No snow (yet) so I am thinking about riding the fixed as it looks like it will be nice later.
I did put the snow tyres onto the MTB last night - just in case we had a delivery overnight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 16 December, 2011, 11:31:27 am
I hope this is not a member of this parish but I could cheerfully have strangled the guy in a red top on a black s/speed with a cream chainguard, who overtook me when I had stopped at red at a pedestrian crossing on Old Kent Road. Sir, I don't care if you run red lights and get yourself flattened in the process; organ donors are always welcome. But please don't do it when women with young children are trying to use the crossing.  You frightened the living daylights out of little boy who was hauled back by his mother to avoid being hit by you. 

On the other hand - good anticipation and fantastically considerate driving from an artic who spotted that a bus up ahead was stopping without signalling and slowed right down to let all the cyclists behind the bus overtake.  Wish I'd got the compamy name.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 16 December, 2011, 11:35:22 am
Interesting ride in today, or to use the modern parlance 'challenging'. 

Started out as horizontal rain, for once I didn't regret donning the boil in the bag overtrousers.  Half an hour later in had morphed into sleet, like being bombarded with icy airgun pellets.  The utter cockwomble in a BMW who sped past with millimetres to spare in shite weather has escaped YouTube infamy courtesy of the rain turning my Muvi into a latter day kaleidoscope.

I am also in a position to award Altura Night Vision gloves the chocolate teapot award.  Strictly speaking they keep out the rain, insofar as only the outer shell gets soddden.  This has the delightful effect of turning your soggy paws in mobile refrigeration coils, nothing finer.  ::-)

At least it's Friday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 16 December, 2011, 12:07:12 pm
Quote from: Gandalf on 16 December, 2011, 11:35:22 am
Interesting ride in today, or to use the modern parlance 'challenging'.

I would describe my ride to the station this morning as "character building" - riding north into an Arctic wind accompanied by stinging icy rain.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 16 December, 2011, 12:22:38 pm
Stood on the patio drinking coffe this morning, no ice anywhere so I took the road bike. 1 mile from home and the sleet starts, 1/2 a mile further and it's snowing so hard I can hardly see but I'm still on a major-ish road so ok. Take the turn into the lanes and  :o  there half an inch of the damn stuff on the road, cue a light failure but ok as i have 2 others, got to the T at end of Gorsey lane and very nearly rode straight into the hedge, vis was so bad. The remaining 6 mile was ok-ish if a bit cold and took a hell of a lot of skill/luck/sheer studipty* to remain upright on slick 23's

I'll never learn.

*delete as applicable
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 16 December, 2011, 12:54:07 pm
An interesting ride in this morning through stinging rain/sleet using left forearm (I'm on the trike) to shield lower face. Laughing like a loon as I go round a roundabout with nothing in my vision but a kaleidascope of lights.

Tis now snowing - will be an interesting ride home also.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 16 December, 2011, 12:59:55 pm
Quote from: Si_Co on 16 December, 2011, 12:22:38 pm


I'll never learn.

*delete as applicable


what you need my son is a Marin mtb with front sus.,disc brakes & fat knobblies.
I happen to know of one residing in incredibly close proximity to that patio to which you refer.
  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 16 December, 2011, 01:01:18 pm
there be no snow on my commute :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 16 December, 2011, 01:18:59 pm
Quote from: jogler on 16 December, 2011, 12:59:55 pm
Quote from: Si_Co on 16 December, 2011, 12:22:38 pm


I'll never learn.

*delete as applicable


what you need my son is a Marin mtb with front sus.,disc brakes & fat knobblies.
I happen to know of one residing in incredibly close proximity to that patio to which you refer.
  ;)

not just knobblies but Schwalbe snow studs  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 16 December, 2011, 01:22:07 pm
 ::-) +1
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 16 December, 2011, 01:29:44 pm
I could see the snow on the hills north of Wellington but I took the low road over the Blackdowns (I was running late) so no snow for me
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 December, 2011, 02:14:07 pm
I commuted yesterday. :-D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 16 December, 2011, 03:58:14 pm
Quote from: clarion on 16 December, 2011, 02:14:07 pm
I commuted yesterday. :-D

 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 16 December, 2011, 06:06:01 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 16 December, 2011, 03:58:14 pm
Quote from: clarion on 16 December, 2011, 02:14:07 pm
I commuted yesterday. :-D

 :thumbsup:

+1  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 16 December, 2011, 06:20:34 pm
Awesome ride home in very cold strong tail wind on mainly dry roads.
It is quite hard to ride fast on a fixed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 16 December, 2011, 06:29:03 pm
I've just done my last commute of 2011.  Home and wrapping up warm, ready for two weeks' hibernation.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 16 December, 2011, 07:14:02 pm
the moped rider overtook me within inches while other car was overtaking me! stopped at red light, me: "there's no need to overtake so close, it can be dangerous". him: "i didn't brake any rules!..". light turned green and he went into the distance jumping next red light. bravo!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 16 December, 2011, 07:21:59 pm
Grotty ride in into sleet, made up for by a ride home where I seemed to have a tail wind in every direction.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 16 December, 2011, 07:42:51 pm
Last commute of the year (well, it's not really a commute as I work from home, but I have to go and work on-site a couple of days a week in different places, so it's the closest I get).

Over near Tower Bridge today - so 15km each way - cold and windy.

Blimey, looking forward to a break now!
Title: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 16 December, 2011, 08:50:13 pm
Full house this week.
Toes nearly went blue this morning.

.... Heads off to the knowledge to look for overshoes...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 17 December, 2011, 12:19:45 am
Finished commuting for the year. Although I bought (or at least used the excuse) the trike for slippery conditions (like 2-3 inches of slush tonight), I've also found the disadvantage. Slush spraying up from the wheels liberally coating my arse. It was *freezing*. This combine with (ironically) the cars who passed wide enough to get their nearside wheels into the slush in the center of the road throwing up a sheet of the stuff over me. Altogether not the most pleasant ride home.

Another minor disadvantage - with the small rear wheel, the rear mech drags in the slush and freezes up. Will be seriously looking at the alfine 11 when the drive chain wears out.

On the plus side - I felt no fear whatever I was cycling through - it was quite safe to have the n/s wheel in the slush at the side of the road when cars were passing, and I could drift round corners on the lanes.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 17 December, 2011, 01:49:04 am
This was going to be a boring day at work.  I only completed 95% of my commute.  I was riding along the A473 dual carriageway towards Bridgend I slow down to allow some cars to pass I am about to make a right turn into Coychurch.  Then I made an error of judgement I estimated I had enough time before the next cars to get to the right turning filter lane.  Unfortunately I was wrong  I was hit by a car.  I can not claim it was his fault.   I do not remember the impact but I was aware of sliding along the road behind my bike.  I lay for a moment trying to work out what happened.  My right leg has a generous section of skin donated to the road surface. I sit up to discover blood pouring from my head and all over the front of my jacket.  The driver who hit was very comcerned and called the police and soon a policeman and ambulance turned up to assess the accident and me.   The ambulance crew walked me to the ambulance as I passed the car I noticed I had smashed the cars windscreen. At the ambulance I was ordered onto a trolley. They cut my cycle shirt off and strapped a blood pressure band on my arm to check I was not going into shock.  They read my pressure and to my surprise commented how good it was "Everyone should cycle they said".  I arrive at the Princess of Wales Hospital and I am pushed into casualty.  The staff were dutifully very concerned about me. They cleaned out my wounds,chatted, supplied me tea and made me feel looked after.  The police man arrived with my bags and told me where he left my bike then took my statement. I repeated that I think I misjudged the speed and position of the cars. I do not think the car was moving with excessive speed.  The doctor comes back and puts a stitch in my head and says  it was a good thing I was carrying a helmet.  I make the comment that the helmet probably didn't do much good. She shows me the helmet and it is obvious that my helmet had given its life for me.  A big split in the back.  I feel the back of my head and find another bleeding hole in need of a stitch at the back of my head.  The nurse cleans out the gravel from the nasty section of leg. They give me a phone to call my father to come and get me.  The doctor wants to talk to my father as the nominated responsible adult to look after head trauma. 

Around 1pm my father turns up and I direct him to work so I can tell them why I haven't turned up today.  It is always good to turn up to work with your face splattered with blood to make it clear why you are not going to stay.  I said I might be in on Monday. When I got back to the car my responsible adult said I would not be working next week.  The other reason I wanted to come here was to retrieve my bike which was in a garden in Coychurch.  I thought I might have been able to salvage something but the only part I think that can be kept is the front wheel.  I was surprised to see the chainring bent.  Maybe I can reuse the cranks but I am not sure of the spider.

One thought I had this evening.  I think I slid along the filter lane.  Was I hit in the filter lane perhaps my bad judgment was something different than I first thought? Maybe not my memory is not very good about the details of the impact. 

This evening the car drivers wife phoned me to check that I was OK and warn me that their insurance company will probably be in touch.  The driver is a little upset.

I would like to thank all the doctors, nurses and ambulance people who looked after me so ably.

   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 17 December, 2011, 07:35:18 am
Bloody hell, CTF.   Get well soon.
You should not be returning to work next week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 17 December, 2011, 07:54:45 am
As he ^ said.

GWS CTF
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Juan Martín on 17 December, 2011, 07:57:04 am
That was a nasty one CTF, take it easy for a bit and get well soon. If the only unbent part is the front wheel you must have been hit pretty hard.

On a more practical note I would suggest that you should be very careful about indicating to the driver's insurer that you may have been at all liable for the accident, especially if you do not have a clear recollection of events. I am sure that others will be able to advise if this is a concern to you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 17 December, 2011, 08:03:07 am
Damn.  Get well soon. And don't even think about going to work. IM similar E of a few weeks ago, I thought I felt OK, but other evidence shows I wasn't.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 17 December, 2011, 08:57:42 am
Quote from: Juan Martín on 17 December, 2011, 07:57:04 am
That was a nasty one CTF, take it easy for a bit and get well soon. If the only unbent part is the front wheel you must have been hit pretty hard.

On a more practical note I would suggest that you should be very careful about indicating to the driver's insurer that you may have been at all liable for the accident, especially if you do not have a clear recollection of events. I am sure that others will be able to advise if this is a concern to you.

Hope you get better soon.  Agree with what JM has said - you may want to go back and edit your original report here
Title: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 17 December, 2011, 09:07:32 am
Ouch dude. GWS.
If you were hit from behind, and dont remember the incident properly, dont admit liability. Let the witnesses tell their story.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 17 December, 2011, 09:30:19 am
Glad that you escaped although not unscathed and for that I wish you well - soon.  :thumbsup:
There is a lot of advice above - just be honest. 
If you are struggling to remember the details ( as can be expected with head trauma ) then say so.
They will be speaking with the driver and any other witnesses etc.
Better to be honest and say you can't recall what happened than try and fill in the gaps and get it wrong or contradictory as a result.

Is there CCTV on that junction?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 December, 2011, 09:31:59 am
Crikey, CTF.  Glad you're still with us.  Take care of yourself and I hope you heal quickly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 17 December, 2011, 10:19:20 am
Quote from: GruB on 17 December, 2011, 09:30:19 am

Is there CCTV on that junction?

No this is one of the Britain's insane roads.  A mile before this if you ride along this section of the A473, which I do not, you go around a roundabout under the M4 and as you return to  straight A473 you find the motorway exit has added lanes to the left and you are in the outside lane of a fast dual carriageway.  Similarly the layout of this right turn into the village is a right hand filter lane that allows fast moving cars to continue unimpeded.  The whole design of this road is to move traffic quickly from the M4 into Bridgend. No thought was given to slow/soft traffic at all.  Bad design.

At this time of year the alternative route through the lanes I use in the Spring, Summer and Autumn is often waterlogged and when it gets cold it contains long stretches of ice.

As to my recall.  I was aware the car was going to hit me in the side (I am heading perpendicular to get to the filter lane) I do not remember the car hitting me but my next memory is sliding along the ground with my bike in front of me. I have no memory of hitting the car windscreen which I clearly did.  I then sit up and start counting my injuries. I struggle to remove my broken helmet some of the straps were detached and the chin buckle I needed to squeeze was at the back of my neck.  I could feel the injuries on my right leg but did not notice the seriousness of the head wound until it started to leak large quantities of blood all over me. I noticed that the car had no number plate but I did not notice the windscreen until I was walked past the car.

I did not sleep well last night. I habitually sleep on my right hand side. All my injuries are on the right hand side.  My left side remains in good condition.  I was also not impressed that the doctor had told my Father, my nominated responsible adult to wake me up every four hours and make sure I am coherent.  I think I am allowed a proper night sleep tonight.  I was amused to read the things that I need to look out for due to head trauma seemed like a list of my usual Saturday behaviour.

The bottom line of this crash.  I should of waited for a larger gap. It would of come.  The driver could not be expected to avoid me. I got it wrong.  I know the road, I know the typical driver types on this road and I have made this turn hundreds of times.  It seems I was just too impatient. I got it wrong.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 17 December, 2011, 10:25:02 am
I admire and respect your honesty.  You have to live with yourself and the consequences so if that is what happened then say so, officially.
It is all well and good to blame others -  but I can't if what I have done or caused to happen is my fault - so I can understand what you are saying above.
Well done you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 17 December, 2011, 10:26:42 am
Quote from: Jurek on 17 December, 2011, 07:54:45 am
As he ^ said.

GWS CTF

+1
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 17 December, 2011, 11:07:12 am
GWS CTF

I can't work out from your description if you are riding along a dual carriageway and trying to change lanes to the third (filter lane) or if you have pulled to the verge and are now crossing two lanes to reach the third.

I ask as in the first scenario you are traffic with you right arm out and the vehicle hitting you from behind has to demonstrate your lane change was unreasonable, in the second you are effectively a pedestrian on a bike who must wait for sufficient gap.

either way I'm glad you are still with us as it sounds like you did quite a bit of damage to  both car and bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 17 December, 2011, 01:08:13 pm
Hell's teeth that's nasty.  GWS CTF. 

It was bad enough, I'm glad it wasn't even worse and you're still with us.

Respect to you for your honesty.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 17 December, 2011, 01:39:48 pm
Hells bells, that's a nasty one.

There is distinct amounts of grump in your post - I think your dad is right to follow the instructions about checking on - if I were around you I'd be keeping a *VERY* close eye on you. Internal bleeding in the skull can take a while to really show up, and I would be wanting to check you every few hours for a coherent response.  Your grumpiness could be a symptom. Do take care and let your dad know asap if you have any new symptoms, dizziness, memory problems, anything at all.
I've had a close relative with a head injury, twice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 17 December, 2011, 01:46:00 pm
Must have been a very spectacular crash! :o :thumbsup:

Glad you're still here to tell the tale. I hope your nut is OK and you heal well.

+1 for staying off work and that you might be a bit more damaged than you'd like to think you are.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 18 December, 2011, 09:56:50 pm
Adding my GWS, too, CTF.

Remember, any crash you can walk away from is a good one, the rest is detail.  But you probably worked that one out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 18 December, 2011, 11:19:36 pm
Ouch and yikes!

It does sound as if you must have been concussed. Re internal bleeding in the skull, which can be in various locations - between skull and dura (meningus), between dura and brain, or within the brain - did they give you a scan of your head?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 18 December, 2011, 11:50:24 pm
gws CommuteTooFar, and don't rush back to work until you have healed. i had pretty nasty crash two months ago (four broken teeth, fractured nose and elbow), doctors were willing to keep me off work for six weeks, but i went back after two weeks once i felt better. i wish you speedy recovery and hopefully you will be back on a (new) bike sooner rather than later.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 19 December, 2011, 09:06:57 am
Bleedin heck CTF, heal quick, puts today's 2 low speed tumbles in the first 1/2 mile on the black ice into perspective. Took this long for me to let enough pressure out of the tyres to get the studs to bite. The entire estate was a complete sheet of ice, guy round the corner was just sitting in his drive with the tyres spinning at huge RPM  :facepalm:

Once I'd got enough bite the rest of the journey was ok if very slow  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 19 December, 2011, 09:18:04 am
Ouch - GWS CTF
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 19 December, 2011, 09:23:49 am
SELF! Vous N'avez Pas La Priorité. Gurning like a loon does not excuse you :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Bairn Again on 19 December, 2011, 09:46:38 am
horrrible - black ice on ungritted roads and bone hard cycle paths meant I reverted to busy main road route.

Black ice patches seem to form in exactly the same spots each year - at this morning i had my foot down in advance !

yuk. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 19 December, 2011, 10:02:11 am
Bloody hell CTF. GWS. I know the one and only time I’ve properly come off, the knowledge that it was my fault hurt just as much as the elbow I managed to break. I beat myself up about that fairly badly at the time.

As for my commute, I think I have post viral fatigue or something. Cycled for the first time since I’ve had the virus that laid me low weekend before last; by the end of the 2.5 mile flat commute I felt utterly exhausted!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 December, 2011, 10:40:25 am
I just sat down and pedalled, and got to work, which is a novelty these days.  Decent average speed, too, which I wasn't expecting.  But I'm at work now.

Bit icy at the start, but it had mostly melted by the time I set off.  I didn't envy Butterfly, who set off at seven.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 19 December, 2011, 11:07:56 am
Jeebus CTF!

GWS and take care.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 19 December, 2011, 11:32:57 am
Fucking motor vehicles, blocking the road and holding up cyclists...

First, I was already on the roundabout, twat in a van was approaching very fast from my left and I wasn't at all confident he'd seen me (his face was obscured from my POV by his A-pillar) so didn't want to take any chances. He did see me, but very late and had to brake hard.

Second, I got stuck behind a bus, third, got stuck behind a bin lorry, fourth, had to wait at temporary traffic lights (road repairs due to damage caused by motor vehicles, probably).

Missed my train as a result. OK, so I should have set off sooner than I did, but next time a motorist complains about being held up by a bike, I shan't be responsible for my actions.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 19 December, 2011, 11:35:32 am
GWS, CTF. Sounds nasty. There but for the grace of god...

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 19 December, 2011, 11:37:18 am
How are you feeling today CTF?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 19 December, 2011, 12:19:58 pm
Ouch CTF!

A manly hug from me...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 19 December, 2011, 02:01:16 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 19 December, 2011, 11:37:18 am
How are you feeling today CTF?

The leg remains really stiff. I have a lovely black eye. I have not gone to work.  I do not think I can ride a bike or walk from the station without doing myself serious damage. So I phoned in saying I will work from home. 

Thanks all of you, for your generous concern. This is an interesting experience that I wish on no one.

This morning I filled in the CTC 3rd party form as far as I could. I have a lack of information about the driver.  I have his phone number but I can not remember his surname.  I was given a contact card by the policeman after an hour in the Princess of Wales Hospital.  I was in a hospital gown so I put it on the tray at the end of the trolley.  Two hours later when I left the hospital it stayed there   :(  I must wait until the driver's insurance company contacts me to reestablish the details such as incident number and peoples names. I think the walk to the post box was a mistake ouch. I believe it is important to contact insurance companies as soon as possible otherwise they may refuse to process you.


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 19 December, 2011, 07:32:25 pm
Canal tow path on the MTB with Schwalbe Winter tyres fitted.
Lovely  :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 19 December, 2011, 10:06:50 pm
An unexpectedly enjoyable ride home tonight.  The rain had stopped and the temperature had risen.  Lots of dodgy manhole covers and similar around though. Encountered a very pretty lady on a singlespeed at the turning from Queen Victoria Street towards Southwark Bridge but she headed off towards Elephant and Castle as I turned off towards Old Kent Road  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 19 December, 2011, 10:08:40 pm
Ouch, hope you heal quickly CTF.

My commute was thankfully dull in comparison. Rather frosty this morning so took the winter bike to scope out the lanes. On reflection I would have probably made it on the road bike but would have been bricking it the entire way.

Ride home was a bit meh, felt really slow on studded tyres on a bike that doesn't fit (jump/trials frame repurposed as a winter commute) and it was rather wet. Need to get some mudguards and is a shame I couldn't get a dynohub for both bikes, my battery lights are a bit underpar.

Not 100% confident with the seatpost mounted pannier rack, seem to have a bit of sideways wobble, seems to be flex rather than turning about the seat post. Just worried it may dive into the spokes.  :-\

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 20 December, 2011, 08:07:30 am
Felt like I was flying today on the road bike after yesterday's ride on the studs, only slightly marred by the lingering effects of sore ribs after yesterday's 2 off's. Much warmer today  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 20 December, 2011, 09:07:16 am
Bloody hell CTF, that sounds horrible.

All the best for a swift recovery.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 December, 2011, 10:31:31 am
Met Office
That there londonton village
Hereabouts

Dear Mr Office

I wish to complain about your internet advertising.  Two days ago, I was browsing the ether when I saw your special offer of a free tailwind specially crafted for this morning.  I signed up with eager delight.

Imagine my disappointment, then, to discover that the delivered item was not the craftsman-finished delight as depicted, but came in uneven lumps.  Furthermore, it only fulfilled one of the two basic criteria for the description as 'tailwind'.  Viz, it was a wind.

I find that this item was not fit for purpose and neither was it of merchantable quality, and I expect a replacement one which works correctly.

Yours meteorologically challenged

Clarion

PS: Don't deliver tonight before I get home, on account of that'd be the wrong direction.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 20 December, 2011, 08:24:54 pm
A lovely ride into work even with a slight headwind was still joyous because it wasn't too cold or icy or even wet.
Coming home was lovely with the slight tail wind but was marred with a broken spoke.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 21 December, 2011, 08:09:36 am
Quote from: clarion on 20 December, 2011, 10:31:31 am
Met Office
That there londonton village
Hereabouts

Dear Mr Office

I wish to complain about your internet advertising.  Two days ago, I was browsing the ether when I saw your special offer of a free tailwind specially crafted for this morning.  I signed up with eager delight.

Imagine my disappointment, then, to discover that the delivered item was not the craftsman-finished delight as depicted, but came in uneven lumps.  Furthermore, it only fulfilled one of the two basic criteria for the description as 'tailwind'.  Viz, it was a wind.

I find that this item was not fit for purpose and neither was it of merchantable quality, and I expect a replacement one which works correctly.

Yours meteorologically challenged

Clarion

PS: Don't deliver tonight before I get home, on account of that'd be the wrong direction.

I think I have your delivery sir.......
Wheeeeeeeeeeeeeeee  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 21 December, 2011, 08:42:16 am
Riding home last night, on a quiet country lane... there's an old guy in a builder's hi-viz jacket walking towards me, pushing a MTB. I slow down, obviously, to ask if he needed anything. "Nah, mate, I'm just havin' a stroll and a fag. Cheers!"

 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 21 December, 2011, 08:47:17 am
Walking back from playing santa last night (delivering pressies to a CrinklyNiece for her to take off down south) I passed a cyclist dealing with a presentation.

He looked a bit surprised by the random bird with no bike but with a pushchair and a couple of kids asking if he had everything he needed!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 21 December, 2011, 09:15:25 am
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 21 December, 2011, 08:47:17 am
...I passed a cyclist dealing with a presentation.
That Powerpoint is a nightmare.  I'm glad you offered your IT skillz.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 21 December, 2011, 09:55:32 am
Much less traffic in that there Londonton.

Nearly run over by a truck on one of TFL's top ten dangerous junctions (Lambeth Bridge roundabout) but then he suddenly spotted me and braked (I do wonder if cycling in a rapidly riding-up tweed skirt had anything to do with this) and I was allowed to leave at the exit I wished, rather than do another circuit of th roundabout to avoid being crushed  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lycra Man on 21 December, 2011, 11:43:23 am
CTF - I came on here to tell folks about my very-nearly-got-knocked-off incident this morning, and just read your account of being comprehensively knocked off.

So firstly I must say ouchy, and I'm glad your injuries are not as severe as they could have been. I admire your honesty in a c ulture which is all too often looking for ways to earn a big payout (or shift treh blame) in such circumstances.

As for me, I was going to ask what more I could have done. I have a front dynamo light which is permanently on, and this morning two Smart rear lights, one on steady, one flashing. I don't wear yellow hi-viz. Today's top layer was my yacf carbon LS jersey, which high-contrast white bits.

Front and rear visibility is therefore good, but not so good from the side, which is where the car tried to attack from, attempting to take my lane on a big roundabout when I was already there.

Spoke reflectors? Anything else? I'd rather not dress up like a Christmas tree to ride my bike, but at the same time it was a nasty shock and I want to survive. How can I look cool reasonable and easily visible to motor traffic?

Lycra Man
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 21 December, 2011, 11:55:46 am
Quote from: Lycra Man on 21 December, 2011, 11:43:23 am
Spoke reflectors? Anything else? I'd rather not dress up like a Christmas tree to ride my bike, but at the same time it was a nasty shock and I want to survive. How can I look cool reasonable and easily visible to motor traffic?

Lycra Man

 :demon: *tongue in cheek*

you need a big metal box with four wheels and an engine as that's what they are looking for.

*takes tongue out of cheek*

when you find the solution be sure to let the rest of us know
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 21 December, 2011, 12:03:09 pm
I bet you were seen just fine Lycra Man. The general problem is we're seen as a slow soft cyclist who doesn't present any danger to the driver, and they're in a metal cage, so that they are completely happy to take unacceptable risks around us.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 21 December, 2011, 01:09:28 pm
Bumped - literally - into another cyclist on the way home last night.  No harm done and it turned out to be a fellow student that I hadn't seen fore more than 20 years.  Serendipity strikes.  Looking forward to our catch-up lunch  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 21 December, 2011, 06:06:10 pm
What a week this has been...bloody terrible.  Is it just me or is there a tangible deterioration in driving standards just before Christmas? 

Either that or they are still bladdered from the office party the night before.  For the second day running I've had not one  but two near misses per journey.  I particularly enjoyed the BMW who skimmed past me as I was going round a roundabout this morning, eclipsed only by the timber lorry who did the classic fag paper overtake.

What with that and being attacked by three out of control dogs in the park yesterday I'll be glad when this week is over.

Visibility?  If the twat who pulled out in front of me this morning is unable to see me with a fluoro Altura Night Vision, Ayups on me bonce and a Magicshine  872 on the bars I give up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 21 December, 2011, 06:18:40 pm
Quote from: Gandalf on 21 December, 2011, 06:06:10 pm
What a week this has been...bloody terrible.  Is it just me or is there a tangible deterioration in driving standards just before Christmas? 

I'd say so.  Frustration and impatience are out in force.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 21 December, 2011, 06:34:34 pm
I've chickened out.   I'm using the train since monday's crapness. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CamPhil on 21 December, 2011, 07:58:48 pm
Quote from: Lycra Man on 21 December, 2011, 11:43:23 am
CTF - I came on here to tell folks about my very-nearly-got-knocked-off incident this morning, and just read your account of being comprehensively knocked off.

So firstly I must say ouchy, and I'm glad your injuries are not as severe as they could have been. I admire your honesty in a c ulture which is all too often looking for ways to earn a big payout (or shift treh blame) in such circumstances.

As for me, I was going to ask what more I could have done. I have a front dynamo light which is permanently on, and this morning two Smart rear lights, one on steady, one flashing. I don't wear yellow hi-viz. Today's top layer was my yacf carbon LS jersey, which high-contrast white bits.

Front and rear visibility is therefore good, but not so good from the side, which is where the car tried to attack from, attempting to take my lane on a big roundabout when I was already there.

Spoke reflectors? Anything else? I'd rather not dress up like a Christmas tree to ride my bike, but at the same time it was a nasty shock and I want to survive. How can I look cool reasonable and easily visible to motor traffic?

Lycra Man

You could try these. (http://www.rosebikes.co.uk/article/3m-spoke-reflectors-sekuclip-compact/aid:547456)
A full set (all spokes equipped) even conforms to the German StVZO requirement for wheel reflectors.
They are far less obtrusive than the ones sold on bikes in the UK - you can barely see them in the daytime, but in headlights WOW.

A head torch carries the danger that you will look at the danger to project the light at it, and end up following the beam to the site of the collision.

I don't know if those reflectors would help very much, but they would at least remove any excuse.
And if all else fails, a photograph of the bike taken at night (with a flash, of course) will be sure to impress the court with the steps you have taken to ensure visibility.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 21 December, 2011, 08:01:53 pm
Quote from: CamPhil on 21 December, 2011, 07:58:48 pm
You could try these.
A full set (all spokes equipped) even conforms to the German StVZO requirement for wheel reflectors.
They are far less obtrusive than the ones sold on bikes in the UK - you can barely see them in the daytime, but in headlights WOW.
Those are the same as the spoke reflectors sold in the UK by Aldi or Lidl. Possibly a tad cheaper.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 December, 2011, 08:47:45 pm
I fitted a few of those to the spokes of my fixed.  Pretty effective.  On my tourer, I have Marathon Plus, which have a reflective sidewall - very good, and helpful for finding my tent in the dark ;D

The 3M reflectors seem to be quite popular among FNRttC riders, and a full set gives a good sweep from almost any angle.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 21 December, 2011, 10:55:55 pm
Also available from Halfords on a 3 for 2, which brings them down to around £5 for 36 (If you buy three packs)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CamPhil on 21 December, 2011, 11:22:44 pm
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 21 December, 2011, 08:01:53 pm
Quote from: CamPhil on 21 December, 2011, 07:58:48 pm
You could try these.
A full set (all spokes equipped) even conforms to the German StVZO requirement for wheel reflectors.
They are far less obtrusive than the ones sold on bikes in the UK - you can barely see them in the daytime, but in headlights WOW.
Those are the same as the spoke reflectors sold in the UK by Aldi or Lidl. Possibly a tad cheaper.

Yeah - cheap enough that I just grabbed several hands full of packets to be sure of having enough for the whole family fleet.
BTW, if you have less than 36 spokes in the wheel, the remainder will fit on the mudguard stays :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dinamo on 21 December, 2011, 11:43:17 pm
Different route into work tonight, dropping off Christmas cards en route.
Took me via a cycle path l hadn't used before, from Stapleton under the M32 up past the old Stoke Park hospital ( now converted to flats ) and upto the UWE.
A great short cut and good surface, my Cree front light lit the way as no lights on this section.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 22 December, 2011, 08:18:26 am
Shorts!

Should have been sandals too, but it just didn’t seem right for December 22nd.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Salvatore on 22 December, 2011, 09:23:33 am
Quote from: Nuncio on 22 December, 2011, 08:18:26 am
Shorts!

Should have been sandals too, but it just didn’t seem right for December 22nd.

But you are in Mexico, aren't you?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 22 December, 2011, 10:00:14 am
Not until tomorrow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 22 December, 2011, 10:01:09 am
Overdressed this morning, had to stop to lose the jacket. Ribs seem to be healing slightly, the potholes were certainly less painful today
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 22 December, 2011, 10:49:04 am
The number of numpty drivers around this week is depressingly high.
Some dozy woman in a Cashcow or whatever it's called nearly had a head-on collision trying to overtake me on a pretty clear road.

She passed me quite slowly, mostly on the other side of the road, which would have been fine normally, but she had completely failed to see the oncoming van and then had to cut in on me quite hard to avoid hitting him.

She then sped off at wildly excessive speed (presumably to avoid being shouted at).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Bairn Again on 22 December, 2011, 11:46:07 am
yes, Ive noticed a definite deterioration in driving standards.

my normal commute involves a short stretch through the car park of the Gyle shoppping centre in Edinburgh.  Im
already innured to the unwritten rule that drivers dont indicate left if they are taking the turnoff to M&S (Ive avoided dozens of potential left hooks) but this past couple of weeks its been a "if cars had elbows" experience involving too many close shaves. 

My alternative is made more complicated with tram works.  The cranes and the like are quite interesting though and I have actually seen a moving tram in Edinburgh near the depot .
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 22 December, 2011, 11:57:27 am
Came in late and used the trike - because that stops me cheating and getting the train home.

It's funny how twelve miles on a tricycle in bright sunshine lifts your mood.   8) :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 22 December, 2011, 12:35:50 pm
A morning of SMIDSYs, which on diesel slicked roads isn't fun. Especially as road surfaces are beginning to break up. I don't think there have been any hard enough frosts in London to do that much damage yet, it is just the age of the repairs. Bodes well!
Title: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 22 December, 2011, 09:08:26 pm
Quote from: benborp on 22 December, 2011, 12:35:50 pm
A morning of SMIDSYs...

My problem today was young male arrogant f**kwits who saw me well enough but pulled out anyway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 22 December, 2011, 10:03:03 pm
Quote from: Gandalf on 21 December, 2011, 06:06:10 pm
What a week this has been...bloody terrible.  Is it just me or is there a tangible deterioration in driving standards just before Christmas? 

Actually, I've had the reverse (or converse).

I finished work on Tuesday and I've taken Louis (5 since Nov) out on the roads a couple of times and we've had nothing but courtesy. Maybe it's the time of day?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 22 December, 2011, 10:05:08 pm
There's a great deal of drunkeness and crappy driving on the roads now, be especially careful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 22 December, 2011, 10:46:13 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 22 December, 2011, 10:05:08 pm
There's a great deal of drunkeness and crappy driving on the roads now, be especially careful.

Quite a bit of crappy cycling too. I witnessed a cyclist/motorbike collision this morning which was entirely the cyclists's fault.  This evening I was riding in heavy traffic when the car a little way in front of me stopped to let another car turn right across its path. So I stopped too.  Not so the numpty behind me who decided to go past me on the left and was nearly hit by the turning car.  At the next lights I asked if it hadn't occurred to him that there might be a reason why I had suddenly stopped but he looked at me as though I was speaking Croation, so I gave up.  Further down the road I encountered a persistent RLJ who was dressed in black, had no lights, and had earphones in.  P-O-D, I imagine.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 23 December, 2011, 08:05:46 am
Well last ride in of the year, pretty windy out there and the Friday legs didn't help, looking forward to some R&R and riding just for the pleasure of it as opposed to coming here
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 23 December, 2011, 09:17:55 am
Last ride in of the year for me too. I’m a bit worried by how much 2.5 miles is knackering me, but am putting it down to being post-viral (or possibly still viral, my throat is still not right) and in need of a good long rest. The bikes won't be coming to Preston, because it's impossible to manage both the dog and the bikes on the journey up, so the dog wins.

I have to say I haven’t experienced more numpty behaviour than normal. The roads are lovely and quiet in Londonton (still a fair amount of traffic but nothing like normal).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 23 December, 2011, 11:03:08 am
Quote from: Si_Co on 23 December, 2011, 08:05:46 am
Well last ride in of the year, pretty windy out there and the Friday legs didn't help, looking forward to some R&R and riding just for the pleasure of it as opposed to coming here

are you coming here on the bike tomorrow? :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonBuoy on 23 December, 2011, 01:53:22 pm
I am told that if you commute by bike throughout the year you will only get properly rained on ten times.  I guess that I was up to nine before today as it was absolutely peeing down when I left work at lunchtime for the last time this year.  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 23 December, 2011, 02:03:27 pm
It was freezing cold and soaking wet on the way home today.

But I'm now in dry clothes, with a fire on and a spot of whisky in my coffee.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 23 December, 2011, 02:40:43 pm
I got up, had a shower, got back into bed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 23 December, 2011, 08:26:00 pm
As I was about to set off for work this evening I cast an eye upwards. I determined that the dull, misty drizzle was likely to continue and that if set out dressed as I had the last few nights I would overheat again. Twenty minutes later I was soaked, freezing, and in mild pain as the wind lashed the rain into my face to such an extent that I was almost brought to a halt. Bins,pedestrians, plasterboard and branches all made sudden appearances and at St George's Circus I was plastered in plane tree leaves (three in the front wheel, one to the face).
Harshest commute of the year so far.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 24 December, 2011, 12:33:00 am
Quote from: benborp on 23 December, 2011, 08:26:00 pm
As I was about to set off for work this evening I cast an eye upwards. I determined that the dull, misty drizzle was likely to continue and that if set out dressed as I had the last few nights I would overheat again. Twenty minutes later I was soaked, freezing, and in mild pain as the wind lashed the rain into my face to such an extent that I was almost brought to a halt. Bins,pedestrians, plasterboard and branches all made sudden appearances and at St George's Circus I was plastered in plane tree leaves (three in the front wheel, one to the face).
Harshest commute of the year so far.

It was indeed harsh. I heard it wearing away the glass in my windows. Thankfully it became subdued before I had to go out afoot, not long after.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tail End Charlie on 24 December, 2011, 12:40:27 am
I had my nearest close shave for a long time. Someone obviously thinking about what Xmas they needed to buy instead of looking out for me. At the time I had my main light and a flashing front light and a light green jacket so shouldn't have been too hard to spot. And it was mid afternoon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 24 December, 2011, 01:45:30 am
The weather was more subdued on my return home, shame about the general level of twattishness. Quiter than usual roads meant lots of inappropriate hooning around. Five minutes from home and I came across bodies in the road. Drunk pedestrian with a hefty bump to the head and a groggy cyclist getting to his feet. Held hands and kept talking to the pedestrian who remained laid out but was getting agitated until the paramedics arrived. Feeling angrier about the hooners now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 24 December, 2011, 09:50:31 am
I had an interesting and rather worrying conversation with my daughter the other night.  Quite by chance I encountered her on my way home.  She was waiting to pull out of the road that I was turning right into.

When I mentioned this later she admitted that she hadn't seen me and she only waited because she saw the car behind me, which I was holding back by being in primary, ready to turn right.  She said she felt irked  by how slowly the car was proceeding and wondered why.

My suggestion that she should surrender her licence didn't go down too well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 26 December, 2011, 01:47:41 pm
Just had a gentle eleven miles, with a look around the 'sales' halfway through. The wind is increasing, but still hatless despite my MPB, it's that warm. Plenty of wankers about. For some reason, there are lots of knobs trying to drive fast on nearly empty roads, and I had the 'delight' twice of cars simply pulling out and pulling in at me when I took primary at some pinch points.

But one of them clearly heard what I called him.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 26 December, 2011, 04:24:45 pm
Cycled home at about 7pm yesterday, went past a police car, two officers holding a young couple against a wall, then went through the underpass under Grapes Hill, sped up to get up the slope and faced 5 armed coppers with machineguns and an alsatian. Didn't expect that on Christmas Day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 28 December, 2011, 09:39:38 am
Pretty clear roads and a tailwind meant I overcame the long wait at the level crossing and the temporary lights at Amen Corner to post a very fast time (for me). :)

Could be a bit slower into the wind tonight. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 28 December, 2011, 09:43:06 am
The downside was that there were very few cyclists on the road this morning.  Only one decent bike - a smart blue Bob Jackson with bullhorns and a pretty big gear, who I saw in Tooting.  Sadly, like the PONd who constituted the rest of the pedal traffic, he rode through a red light.  Four that I saw. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 28 December, 2011, 09:47:56 am
It was a long* hard slog into the wind today - took ages longer than usual.  Hopefully I'll have a tail wind for most of the return.

* want to do around 40km a day before the end of the year to get the Cheviot over 2,000km.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 28 December, 2011, 02:54:34 pm
Yep! strong headwind & rubbish legs = slowest commute yet.

I did get overtaken buy a nutter in a VW polo who then pulled over to the middle of the road & slowed down so I would catch them up, I had no idea who it was or what they were going to do next.  When I looked through the passenger side window it was the girl who sits opposite me at work the very lovely Jude  :-*

Oh! & I had a puncture  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 29 December, 2011, 01:59:24 am
Two lazy, slow-mo left hooks on the way in. No great drama but it is irritating to come across motorists that think the solution to their own poor planning is to drive into the cyclist.
Usual close proximity stuff from the taxis on the Walworth Road on the way back. One pulled up alongside me, left indicator flashing, window rolls down - 'here we go' I thought. 'Ha-ha you're fast. Do you race? After you!'
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 29 December, 2011, 09:41:04 am
The wind on the ride home last was all swirly-whirly, so not that much fun.  Managed 40km for the day.  After I logged my commute I worked out how far short of 2,000km I'd be after commuting Thursday and Friday: 50km. :( 

When I woke up this morning I was still stricken with the lurgy, so decided the sensible thing to do would be not try another 40km day. (What I *wanted* to do was go back to bed!).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 29 December, 2011, 10:11:55 am
Difficult, but wise, choice, Andrij :(

I had a 'head down, keep pedalling' ride home last night, and was surprised to manage 20kph average despite the headwind.  A Range Rover had nroken down right on the crest of the humpbacked bridge at Tooting Station, causing chaos.  It did mean that I had a clear road for my first pass down Figges March, though there were cars and buses coming through by the time I'd completed the loop (to make the daily total also 40km, coincidentally).

This morning I left a shade later, and the expected tailwind was actually across me on the way to Tooting, so I was very glad that there were few motro vehicles around.

I wasn't so much later that I missed the barriers being down at the level crossing, but the wait was a bit shorter.  Not so at Amen Corner, where the temp lights take aaaages.  Just past there, I get to the A24 at Tooting Broadway, where the trffic lights weren't working at all! :o

There were, at least, two Police Officers with a van parked up on Garratt lane.  They were helping sort out the chaos by, er, standing back and (literally) scratching their heads.  Gee, thanks, guys! ::-)

On Balham High Road, I was sad to see a bus stopped, partially in the bike lane, with its hazards on near an ambulance.  A bike was leaning against one of the two Paramedic m/bikes at the scene, but no one was in sight.  I was pleased to see that the bike was not particularly damaged, so I hoped that the rider was OK.  Shortly after, an ambulance came steaming past up Balham Hill.  That sounds like bad news, because it might have made more sense to go to St Georges for a minor injury.  They were probably off to Tommy's. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 29 December, 2011, 12:20:14 pm
Really enjoyed the ride last night despite the howling wind & achy legs.  Just need 128 miles now to hit 8000 for the year.  Will do a long commute home tonight to get it down to around 90 miles then tomorrow I finish work at 1pm so will be able to get another 50+ miles done leaving 40ish to do on Saturday  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bloomers100 on 30 December, 2011, 09:39:04 am
Rode the new wheels in this morning, took my mind off the wind, some pinging from the spokes with the pannier on. Generally quiet and an hour later than I normally ride. Beer powered ride home later probably, brought modesty shorts just in case.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 30 December, 2011, 11:39:08 am
No traffic today  :)  added a loop through Sherborne St John to get past another round number for miles ridden this year.   Three deer ran down the road on Sustrans 23 just north of Grazeley  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 31 December, 2011, 09:07:41 am
Last commute and probably last ride of the year yesterday. Bikes outnumbered cars through Richmond Park.

It'll be a couple of weeks before I ride again, due to an overseas work trip so January's 200 is going to be a bit of a grind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 03 January, 2012, 08:13:44 am
Well I didn't see that one coming <Michael Fish>.  I don't mind a bit of wind but that was beyond the pale, we're talking 5.6 mph at one point.  That has to be the hardest eight miles I can remember and that includes my little forays into the Surrey hills when I've bitten off more than I can chew and stayed out too long.

I was struggling to stay upright while waiting at the lights and I actually thought that my safety was being compromised.  Needless to say the motons didn't drive appropriately either.  Large tree down in Nonsuch Park as well.

Be careful out there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 03 January, 2012, 08:55:08 am
There were two new dwarves on the route today - Windy and Wimpy. And no me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 03 January, 2012, 09:00:44 am
My first commute since the crash.  My head is mostly healed, a red area but sealed.  The right leg gave me the most problem.  At one point before Christmas I limped for a short distance and struggled to get down stairs.  I could not sit in a chair for more than 10 minutes.  I spent most of my holiday lying on the couch or on my bed. The Friday before Christmas the stitches were removed.  The leg was redressed and things started to improve.  I enjoyed Christmas dinner but this is a long meal and I needed to leave the table early for a lie down.  Slowly the leg has been improving.  It is mostly sealed but a small 4 square cm area remains open.  This area was very badly damaged but I expect that will be ok by the end of the week. So apart from that I seem to be good.

I decided to take it easy today so my commute consisted of a roll down hill to the Station the train to Bridgend and a ride to the far end of Bridgend Industrial Estate. Very wet and windy so I am glad I did not ride all the way.  I do not think it would be good for my leg anyway, I got soaked even for the relatively short distance I rode.

 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 03 January, 2012, 09:05:10 am
Bloody hell!

My commute is only 2.5 miles, but doing it on a sit up and beg, singlespeed bike, was interesting. At one point the wind was right behind me and I flew along, but at another, as I turned onto Lambeth bridge, I could barely stay upright or pedal. Luckily the driver behind me hung back until I was a bit more stable.

I’m dreading the headwind on the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spenceey on 03 January, 2012, 09:15:16 am
Woke up to the sound of trees blowing around our house, but woke up too late to catch the bus. Nervously donned my cycling stuff for the first time in 2 weeks (Christmas eating break) and headed out the door. Once I was out apart from a few wobbles it wasn't that bad.

Felt great to be back on the bike although I'd obviously layered up too much and was very hot by the time I got to work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 January, 2012, 09:45:18 am
The sound of the wind woke me up at four, and I wasn't looking forward to the ride.  But in my case it was ok, because I rode downwind.  It was certainly gusty and blustery, which caught me by surprise, but I had a fast ride.  Going home will be a different matter.

Of course, I'm in the south east, and I am very concerned for those of you experiencing real weather.  Do take care.

CTF, it's great to hear you're riding again.  What a day to get back to it!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 03 January, 2012, 10:00:07 am
Little section of commute along the Thames was hard work today... and that was just walking trying to push the bike. Didnt encounter the heavy rain or showers the weather forecast had predicted though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: eeymsmo on 03 January, 2012, 10:12:47 am
First cycle commute of 2012, first puncture of 2012, first failed repaired inner tube of 2012, first bus commute of 2012  :facepalm:

Though thanks to my out and back commute I got managed to limp it home to change the tubem, then give up but still get about 13 miles in. Very windy and wet out around Nottingham this morning, took me a while to notice the puncture as I wasn't sure if the wandering sensation from the back wheel was the wind or not.

Where's good for bulk buying innertubes atm? (700x28)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 03 January, 2012, 10:17:45 am
Apart from a one day blip at the end of November, today was my first cyclo-commute since the last Thursday in October. Persistent cough and general lassitude and the Christmas break resulted in my biggest break from the bike in over seven years. The wind was tough but that was just brilliant; fresh air and my legs getting me to work. I'm buzzing.
Title: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 03 January, 2012, 10:17:51 am
Ride to station was fine. Unfortunately, trains were shafted due to fire on line so I decided to ride to Canterbury to get a train from there instead.

Only six miles, so a nice easy bonus ride. Well, would have been easy but for the 40mph headwinds all the way…

Down to walking pace for parts of the way and blown to a standstill a few times. Normally takes under 30 mins, took over 50 mins today.

Character building.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 January, 2012, 10:19:33 am
You're still a lot faster than those folk you left standing on the local station... ;D

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 03 January, 2012, 12:09:16 pm
Quote from: clarion on 03 January, 2012, 10:19:33 am
You're still a lot faster than those folk you left standing on the local station... ;D

Possibly, except I later heard that they eventually laid on a replacement bus service between Whitstable and Faversham, so it depends when the bus showed up as to whether I was quicker or not.

Still, I got a bonus ride, which is always nice. Even in today's conditions.  :-\  ;D

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: corshamjim on 03 January, 2012, 12:15:21 pm
Claire offered me a lift in today.  I was almost tempted but thought, no, I'd only get a ribbing from the other cyclists Mark and Adrian if I wimp out, so I rode in.

I arrived, bedraggled, at work to find that neither Mark nor Adrian are here today.  :facepalm:

Ah well, if the weather perks up I'll be glad of a nice ride home later.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 03 January, 2012, 12:59:47 pm
Flew in this morning. I think there may have been a tailwind. What gave this away was that at one point, my flag ('bent trike today) was flying backwards* even though I was doing 20mph. I suspect it might be slow going on the ride home.


* which means it was pointing forwards.
Title: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 03 January, 2012, 01:53:19 pm
I'm glad to see the headwind was refreshed and raring to go after the xmas break.
Unfortunately I wasnt ( refreshed or raring). That was blimmin hard work. Had to use the granny ring several times on the flat today, even thought I'd need it downhill at points.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 03 January, 2012, 02:09:20 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 26 December, 2011, 04:24:45 pm
Cycled home at about 7pm yesterday, went past a police car, two officers holding a young couple against a wall, then went through the underpass under Grapes Hill, sped up to get up the slope and faced 5 armed coppers with machineguns and an alsatian. Didn't expect that on Christmas Day.

Police Shocker Alert- Armed Police totally fail to shoot unarmed cyclist ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 03 January, 2012, 02:18:42 pm
Did my supermarket run today, only a five mile loop or so, but the empty panniers on the front made the steering very interesting on the way there. Torrential rain, blasting gale, side gusts that nearly had me off at one point, but I got there. Going into the car park, past the garage, a woman decided her two seconds of time were worth more than my life, so I called her a name.

I had the bike locked up, and was going into the shop, while she was still driving round and round looking for the nearest space possible. Ah well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 03 January, 2012, 02:20:40 pm
I'm not much looking forward to the ride home :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 03 January, 2012, 02:44:54 pm
The Biblical storm we were subjected to earlier seems to have passed over. It's now dry and clear outside, and rather less windy than it was this morning.  :thumbsup:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JJ on 03 January, 2012, 03:02:12 pm
Broke all speed records and maybe some limits on the way in today.  Am not expecting to do the same tonight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 03 January, 2012, 03:18:50 pm
Quote from: clarion on 29 December, 2011, 10:11:55 am

On Balham High Road, I was sad to see a bus stopped, partially in the bike lane, with its hazards on near an ambulance.  A bike was leaning against one of the two Paramedic m/bikes at the scene, but no one was in sight.  I was pleased to see that the bike was not particularly damaged, so I hoped that the rider was OK.  Shortly after, an ambulance came steaming past up Balham Hill.  That sounds like bad news, because it might have made more sense to go to St Georges for a minor injury.  They were probably off to Tommy's. :(

Husband of casualty has posted in lfgss. She's home  & OKish.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 January, 2012, 03:21:38 pm
Thanks helly, I saw that.  I've messaged the poster offering help in response to their request.  Not sure that I can help, but I'm available.

She was taken to George's, so it must have been a different ambulance which passed me at speed on Balham Hill.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 03 January, 2012, 03:48:33 pm
I spied the usual urban battle tank ahead in the insurgent badlands of Bromley province. The lady driving it was trying to navigate around a wheelie bin that had blown into the road, and ended up stuck between it and a parked car. By the time I cycled up behind her, she was stationary, just sitting there with the engine running. I got off, leaned my bike on a nearby lampost and moved the bin out of the road. This took about 10 seconds. Finally freed from the fiendish trap, she drove off with no acknowledgement. Not even a nod of gratitude.

It seems to be a theme, I watched one of the neighbours navigating their 4x4 around a litter of free-range empty recycling bins this morning. It didn't occur to her to get out and move them, far easier to gingerly try and drive by them (O the bodywork! O the bodywork!). And on Christmas eve, in the car, we were backed up down the road. Why? It finally became clear that a bollard from traffic island had blown into the road. Cars were lined up waiting for an opportunity to circumnavigate the island on the right to avoid the bollard. Bejeezus. We drove up, I leaned out of the passenger door and deposited the bollard on the pavement. It took about two seconds to clear the lane and put the bollard against the wall.

It's just rain. Water. Not hydrofluoric acid.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 January, 2012, 03:54:10 pm
No, but it is a dilute carbonic acid :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: why1040 on 03 January, 2012, 04:11:38 pm
I got out to see if I could move a branch that had fallen onto the road today, but it was WAY too heavy for me to be moving on my own and the 4 cars that passed while I was having a good old look at it didn't offer to help.

It's a reasonably quiet road and it was only blocking half the carriageway, so I suspect it'll be there for a week or so...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 03 January, 2012, 04:35:12 pm
I'd forgotten about this until ian's story reminded me...

On my way to the station this morning, a woman approaching from the opposite direction waited until I'd passed before negotiating a plastic rubbish sack that had blown into the road. Again, it would have been just as quick, if not quicker, not to mention more community spirited, for her to get out of her car and move the bag off the road.

I suppose I should be grateful that at least she waited for me to pass first.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 03 January, 2012, 05:13:56 pm
Quote from: JJ on 03 January, 2012, 03:02:12 pm
Broke all speed records and maybe some limits on the way in today.  Am not expecting to do the same tonight.

I'm anticipating a tailwind  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 03 January, 2012, 06:25:42 pm
It's jolly odd when your tailwind is the same speed as your speed. There's no wind rush in your ears so you hear everything.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 January, 2012, 07:03:18 pm
Home into the wind.  Plugging away meant I finished with19.9kph, which I think was respectable.

I did, however, drop a Ventolin into a line of motor traffic I was reluctant to retrieve it from.  Fortunately, like most asthmatics, I had another.  But thanks to the singlespeed rider who caught me up and told me. :)
Righto, off out into the wind and dark to repair things and swear.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 03 January, 2012, 08:13:22 pm
I *HATE* tailwinds. They rob all my advantage. When I'm riding with upright riders, I'm always praying for headwind.  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 03 January, 2012, 09:07:39 pm
Mr Mac was actually blown off his bike on his way in this morning, along with a couple of people ahead of him. He managed to jump clear of the bike, so no damage to either, but he was pretty shaken!

Millbank, the windiest place in London.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 03 January, 2012, 09:19:00 pm
Was V. windy. BUT Miraculously this mornings tail wind had morphed into a (mostly) side wind by this evening.

Tis true. Miracles happen.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Crumbling Nick on 03 January, 2012, 10:09:00 pm
It was a stiff cross/tail wind for the ride out, which became a lot stiffer over the top of Radford hill. Time to descend slowly - A425 is not the nicest road for high-speed wobblies. Reached today's destination (Ufton Fields) at the top of the next ridge, parked bike & started to change into boots & thornproof waterproofs. The wind increased to about force 10, accompanied by rain in stair-rod style.

My workplace has a shower at last, but the drying facilities could be improved ;).

Checked phone & discovered that the work party had been reassigned to the HQ reserve due to bad weather. Chose not to ride the 15 miles with tailwind, since the ride home would then be headwind all the way.

Rode home with the wind much reduced from its worst & the rain steadily drying up. It was a very slow 22 miles.

At home I unpacked assorted wet kit to dry & noticed a fallen silver birch across the back garden. A couple of minutes later our next door neighbour phoned to apologise & say that a man would be sorting it out & removing the wood. Since the fence looked in imminent danger of collapse, it seemed a good time to set to work with bowsaw & billhook - it's as close as I'll get to working from home.

It seems the tree may have enough roots left to survive if coppiced. I hope so, since birch is a nice garden tree. I would have been much less sad if it had been one of the wretched conifers that had blown down
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 January, 2012, 10:28:26 pm
Quote from: little miss mac on 03 January, 2012, 09:07:39 pm
Mr Mac was actually blown off his bike on his way in this morning, along with a couple of people ahead of him. He managed to jump clear of the bike, so no damage to either, but he was pretty shaken!

Millbank, the windiest place in London.

Blimey, that must have been seriously gusty!

The Embankment is pretty windy a lot of the time, so I'm not surprised it was bad today.  Hope things are better tomorrow for everybody.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 03 January, 2012, 10:30:55 pm
Quote from: little miss mac on 03 January, 2012, 09:07:39 pm
Mr Mac was actually blown off his bike on his way in this morning, along with a couple of people ahead of him. He managed to jump clear of the bike, so no damage to either, but he was pretty shaken!

Millbank, the windiest place in London.

Poor Mr Mac - hope he is feeling less shaky dear girl.

I was coming off Vauxhall Bridge to turn left towards the Chelsea Embankment and the wind blew me off my bike. I felt the sheer inevitability of it all but apart from a sore back am fine. The amount of cyclists that had come to a standstill along that route was numerous.

Then was getting ready to go home this evening and dang! A goodly amount of rain had got into my front cat eye and even though I did some fettling it was still not working. Managed to get a good torch and strap it with some elastic bands onto the handlebars. Good tailwind home. Note to self - if you think its stupidly windy then get public transport.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 January, 2012, 10:35:06 pm
Not the first time someone's been blown off near Vauxhall Cross ;)

Joking aside, that's a horrid place to have an off.  I'm glad you're not too badly hurt.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 January, 2012, 10:26:15 am
OK, another tailwind this morning, but it was a good ride.  Except...

Except for the massive number of morons on the road.  I had to do three emergency stops today - one as someone pulled out of a side road and stopped, blocking the cycle lane (and the rest of the lane too)*; one when a car driver, who had made eye contact with me decided she would pull right across between me and the bike just ahead of me.  I needed the Paddington stare as well as the well-adjusted brakes for that one.  Then there was the truck which pulled out without looking or indicating.

And there were cars parked all over CS7, as well as delivery trucks.  I called out 'Thank you!' to a traffic warden booking a lorry as the driver just continued the delivery, accepting the ticket with equanimity.  The cost of fines is factored in.  As consumers, we pay for this dangerous inconvenience to take place. >:(

Last offender was a chap on a Langster who fancied himself as a bit of a road warrior.  But his chief aim, it seemed (and I use 'aim' as loosely as he did), was to cover Borough High Street with a layer of mucus.  Snot rockets, hawking, spitting - it was disgusting.

I pulled alongside him on London Bridge** and told him 'You're not a footballer.  You don't need to spit.  I've got a chest infection and don't, so there's no reason for you to be so dirty'.  I doubt I made an impression. :-\

Today's annoyed roadie was a chap half my age.  He was on a bike that looked possibly older than he was - a Sonic.  Nice bike.  I think it was Campag equipment.  Anyway, as it always goes, people can get upset by a fat bloke on a ratty looking bike with a propstand and saddlebag going faster than them.  They need to get over themselves.  I'm regularly passed by a chap I cede fifteen years to, who powers his Daccordi down CS7.  It's OK.  The Sonic rider eventually, as most of them do, ran a red light to get away.  The young Trek rider I have much more respect for.  He & I were exchanging places for quite a while this morning, but he didn't do anything stupid or dangerous (and I hope I can safely say I didn't).  I have to admit, he crossed the river in front of me.  Strong and canny rider - that's what I like to see. :)


* If I could lipread, I might have learned some new words in response to my shout of 'TWAAAAAAAAATTT!!!!' as I slammed the anchors on. ;D

** I know the Col du Pont de Londres is not strictly speaking on my commute, but I set off a bit early, so I thoguht I'd go see the river :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 04 January, 2012, 12:10:54 pm
I can only assume that in the two weeks six days since I last rode a bike that my entire drive chain and hubs have nearly seized.  It is the only possible explanation for what the 8 mile round trip I just made has done to me!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cyclops on 04 January, 2012, 04:07:30 pm
Well that was windy but a mere breeze compared to yesterday (fortunately I was off yesterday)

The wind seems to have wrecked havoc. I pass 4 sets of traffic lights or pedestrian crossings on my commute and 75% had been damaged. At both traffic light controlled junctions I ride through the wind had blown some of the lights around 90 degrees so they were controlling the wrong flow of traffic. Luckily the traffic was light and most drivers seemed to work out when they had a red and green light showing simultaneously which one to believe. One of the pedestrian crossings was completely out of action as the pole had snapped at ground level :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 04 January, 2012, 06:59:39 pm
Cold, wet and windy.

Enough said
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 January, 2012, 07:23:28 pm
Gusty.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Snakehips on 04 January, 2012, 07:30:03 pm
Quote from: marcusjb on 04 January, 2012, 12:10:54 pm
I can only assume that in the two weeks six days since I last rode a bike that my entire drive chain and hubs have nearly seized.  It is the only possible explanation for what the 8 mile round trip I just made has done to me!
Better check that , it might be true. I once had a chain break on the first day back after Xmas and I got dumped on the ground about 20 yds from my front door. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 04 January, 2012, 08:05:19 pm
I need to get back into the habit of checking the tyres at lunchtime. Came back to the bike to a flat front and I was in a rush.  It was wet and windy but at least most of the blockages (trees, fences, advertising boards) had been removed from the path by going home time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 04 January, 2012, 08:29:25 pm
Came out of my spin class to find it hissing it down. As I had my poncho with me I chose warm and dry, but sloooow into a headwind, over freezing cold and wet, but slightly less slow onto a headwind.

From the language coming from between my gritted teeth, you would have thought I was cycling down an NCN route...thank God it's only four miles.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tom B on 04 January, 2012, 08:40:51 pm
Quote
As I had my poncho with me I chose warm and dry, but sloooow into a headwind, over freezing cold and wet, but slightly less slow onto a headwind

Yes, definitely a cape day on the way home  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 January, 2012, 08:47:12 pm
I suspect that, if I were wearing a cape, my journey from Southwark to Carshalton would have turned into a journey from Southwark to Hackney - backwards!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 04 January, 2012, 09:17:16 pm
I am using the train this week.  This evening I set off  towards Bridgend station in an attempt to catch the 5:25 Manchester train but after 500m I decided I would not get there on time due to the strong headwind.  So I performed a u-turn and rode one of my faster times to Pencoed to watch the Manchester train whizz past the platform while I waited for the 8:44 Cheltenham train that stops. 

When I got Radyr Station I climbed the hills to my house.  This was one of the rare occasions when peddling up the 1:9 section seemed easier than the top.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 04 January, 2012, 09:40:42 pm
A small girl ran across the road in front of me, taking no notice of my shout of "No" or of my stopping about 1m short of her. She just carried on blithely on her way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 04 January, 2012, 09:48:26 pm
A bit damp on the way home this evening, even overshoes would not have helped.  As for drivers, especially the 'professionals'...  :sick:  At least the wind wasn't a problem.

Weather has kept me from doing the long route, and looks like this will also be the case tomorrow. :(  Here's hoping things are better next week (I'm away Fri-Sun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 January, 2012, 09:50:46 pm
That's scary, Adrian.  Well done on missing her.  I had a similar case yesterday, when a woman and a girl spotted the bus they wanted, and ran out of a shop and across the road.  Well, the woman did.  I shouted 'Stop!' at the girl, and, fortunately, she did.  She missed the bus, but she wasn't knocked down by me on a bike, or the car that shot past me as I stopped.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 04 January, 2012, 09:52:19 pm
Quote from: Adrian on 04 January, 2012, 09:40:42 pm
A small girl ran across the road in front of me....... my stopping about 1m short of her. She just carried on blithely on her way.

Well done.

I have had worse.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Julian on 04 January, 2012, 09:55:21 pm
Did a whole commute for the first time in months.  It's 19 miles round now, so less trivial than it was.... and the fact that it's only 23 minutes by tube means I've generally opted for the extra 45 minutes snooze.

It was lovely on the way in, and slightly less lovely on the way back, which involved slogging into pissing rain and a headwind.  Nice.

Still, that's 19 miles further than I've ridden since about September. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 January, 2012, 09:57:21 pm
What a day to choose to start! :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 04 January, 2012, 10:14:30 pm
I must admit to taking a sort of perverse pleasure  in plodding into a screaming headwind, shaking rain out of my eyes, and looking at all the poor motorists in their horrible stuffy cars.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Julian on 04 January, 2012, 10:18:53 pm
Quote from: clarion on 04 January, 2012, 09:57:21 pm
What a day to choose to start! :D

It would have been yesterday, but yesterday was even worse ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 January, 2012, 10:37:51 pm
I've been helped in my plod homewards both nights this week by the thought of being in the Bikjournal top ten fixed ranking at the end of the year. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 04 January, 2012, 10:40:56 pm
are you doing all your commuting on a fixed gear then Clarion?
If so what gear inch are you using?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 January, 2012, 10:43:53 pm
So far, yes.

And it's 52.8;63.3;84.4" ;D

Generally, into work this morning, it was 84.4. Homewards 63.3 and prayers for new thews.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 04 January, 2012, 10:47:47 pm
That's novel
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 January, 2012, 10:49:21 pm
But not unique ;)
Title: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 04 January, 2012, 11:04:37 pm
Quote from: tonycollinet on 04 January, 2012, 10:14:30 pm
I must admit to taking a sort of perverse pleasure  in plodding into a screaming headwind, shaking rain out of my eyes, and looking at all the poor motorists in their horrible stuffy cars.  ;D

+1

Even with the stinking cold I have right now, I'd rather have the wind and rain in my face than be peering through a windscreen at it. Of course, I might feel differently if I lived in Scotland or somewhere else where weather conditions are actually dangerous.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 04 January, 2012, 11:15:31 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 04 January, 2012, 09:52:19 pm
Quote from: Adrian on 04 January, 2012, 09:40:42 pm
A small girl ran across the road in front of me....... my stopping about 1m short of her. She just carried on blithely on her way.

Well done.

I have had worse.
Indeed, you had the fox cub on the Hoo peninsular
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 04 January, 2012, 11:27:33 pm
For water company related reasons I caught the unmentionable in this morning, with the Bendy Bike on board. Rode from Redhill station to work then at the end of the day took a slighly scenic route home. Approaching a set of traffic lights a wankpanzer ambled out of a parallel service road ahead of me and joing the queue for the traffic lights. As said wankpanzer was unlit, I did the decent thing, rode up along side it (now stationary) and banged on the window to attract the driver's attention.

She leapt out of her skin, dropped her phone mid text, and wound down the window.

"Excuse me, but you haven't got any lights on"

<inaudible apology>

"And you might want to put the phone down too."


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 04 January, 2012, 11:49:43 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 04 January, 2012, 11:04:37 pm
Quote from: tonycollinet on 04 January, 2012, 10:14:30 pm
I must admit to taking a sort of perverse pleasure  in plodding into a screaming headwind, shaking rain out of my eyes, and looking at all the poor motorists in their horrible stuffy cars.  ;D

+1

Even with the stinking cold I have right now, I'd rather have the wind and rain in my face than be peering through a windscreen at it. Of course, I might feel differently if I lived in Scotland or somewhere else where weather conditions are actually dangerous.

d.

A tree got blown into a main road in Stanmore yesterday. Wild weather happens here too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 05 January, 2012, 01:24:55 am
Looks like I've just managed to get back home before the wild stuff starts here. Caught a lull and rode back home on mostly dry roads. Still lots (10 or so) of cyclists out at the same time as me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 05 January, 2012, 08:47:47 am
Oh Yes. We love a tailwind, don't we?

Last night: 26.7km, 1h 20m, grovel grovel  >:(
This morning: 27.1km 55m, spinny McSpin  :D

The B road was closed at Redgrave (tree down?) so there was more traffic than normal in the lanes, but they mostly waited for me to find a place and pull over to let them pass.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 05 January, 2012, 09:06:20 am
First ride of the year last night- bike stayed at the nick over the holidays. A wee bit breezy but it was lack of use that caused the legs and lungs to complain.

I did have to remind a dozy bint Audi driver that the lump in the road at the junction of The Causeway and Pound Lane in Marlow was a roundabout (the clu is in the name) NOT a speed bump as I had to brake sharply to avoid a wiping out. If she had take a roundabout route as opposed to a straight across route, a conflict wouldn't have become likely ::-)

The ride in this morning was windier and not fair. The ascent of the forst part of Quarry Wood Road towards Winter Hill was into a headwind. Having negotiated the hairpin and turned through at least 120 degrees I found myself with a headwind ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 January, 2012, 09:52:49 am
This morning's ride would have been easier if the wind could decide where it was coming from.  Buffeted from all sides. :(

At Clapham Common, I watched as drifts of leaves were blown in from every direction to converge in a flurrying turmoil.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 05 January, 2012, 09:59:15 am
Quote from: hellymedic on 04 January, 2012, 11:49:43 pm
A tree got blown into a main road in Stanmore yesterday. Wild weather happens here too.

Yes, there was a fallen tree blocking my route home from the station yesterday, but the chances of me being there when these things happen are small enough that it's a risk I'm prepared to take. Current conditions in Kent are nothing compared to the storm of 1987. I wouldn't go out on my bike if it were like that.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 05 January, 2012, 10:02:47 am
Started with Feline driving me to the station at 05:40 for the 06:12 to Bristol. The 6:40 to Paddington was late so I missed the earlier connection to Cambridge. It was windy but I didn't get rained on in London. Almost got blown over as I stopped at one point. Whose idea was it to allow PTWs in bus lanes? The 09:15 to Cambridge was late too. I'm still on it, and will now be late for work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 05 January, 2012, 10:27:20 am
what's a PTW?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 05 January, 2012, 10:28:31 am
Powered Two Wheeler - moped/motorbike
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 05 January, 2012, 10:30:59 am
Quote from: simonp on 05 January, 2012, 10:02:47 am
Started with Feline driving me to the station at 05:40 for the 06:12 to Bristol. The 6:40 to Paddington was late so I missed the earlier connection to Cambridge. It was windy but I didn't get rained on in London. Almost got blown over as I stopped at one point. Whose idea was it to allow PTWs in bus lanes? The 09:15 to Cambridge was late too. I'm still on it, and will now be late for work.

Yeah, occasionally they can be a bit of a handful. I tend to take the 2/3rds position on the bus lane anyway, and every time I see one coming up behind me I give a big semi-random appearing wobble. Gets them to go wide every time.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 05 January, 2012, 10:36:57 am
Quote from: Si_Co on 05 January, 2012, 10:28:31 am
Powered Two Wheeler - moped/motorbike

Thanks son.
I'd best keep your mum out of cycle lanes then & in Primary ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 05 January, 2012, 11:03:37 am
That was hard work!  I almost got the Tube in today but eventually convinced myself I'd be less miserable on the bike.

I'm not in the office tomorrow but still planned on an early morning ride before I leave town for the weekend.  If it's anything like this morning I'm staying in!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 05 January, 2012, 12:06:27 pm
That was indeed tough. There was a whole flat mile stretch where I was having to push hard to maintain 12mph.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 05 January, 2012, 12:08:48 pm
Chapeau to you sir, I couldn't manage double figures for the first mile this morning  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 05 January, 2012, 12:20:55 pm
Why thank you !   I suspect we had different flavours of wind though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 05 January, 2012, 12:33:28 pm
First commute of the year following a holiday in Mexico, and by some margin the slowest ever, probably because of the following factors

- First time on the bike in a fortnight
- Into a gale, and rain
- Montezuma's revenge causing some discomfort.

On the other hand the dash from the bike shed straight past the changing rooms to the toilet was a personal best.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 05 January, 2012, 07:23:54 pm
First ride home from work in months. 14 miles due west on the train this morning, 14 miles home due east on the bike this evening  ;D

I need to fettle the front gear cable, 7 speed 39 x 12-28 was rather spinny with that tail wind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 05 January, 2012, 07:27:00 pm
I met one of these, on the way home tonight, wandering about in a dark, dark lane to the north of Stafford. It appeared to be the size of a Transit van, but that's probably an exaggeration due to my heebie jeebies. Google says it's an English Longhorn Bull.

(http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c22/gordon1314/english-longhorn.jpg)

I'd love to say that I took the photo, but as I was fumbling for my camera phone, the thing started towards me and I sped off. I was just wondering what to do when two Landrovers containing four worried looking blokes came zooming past with their hazard lights on.

I love my commute.  ;D  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 05 January, 2012, 07:29:33 pm
I think that's covered by the "Don’t scream if you meet a cow." rule (https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=55373.0)   ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 05 January, 2012, 09:14:03 pm
Forgot my laptop and remembered half way home so have done >40k today. Then got a puncture.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 05 January, 2012, 09:27:58 pm
Quote from: Gordy on 05 January, 2012, 07:27:00 pm
I'd love to say that I took the photo, but as I was fumbling for my camera phone, the thing started towards me and I sped off. I was just wondering what to do when two Landrovers containing four worried looking blokes came zooming past with their hazard lights on.

I love my commute.  ;D  :thumbsup:
Eeeeeps! An unscheduled sprint competition!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dinamo on 06 January, 2012, 06:33:25 am
Early commute this morning 04:20 !
Through deserted streets, the best time of the day !
The moon had a slight haze to it and occasionally plumes of cloud would blow cross it making it look even more fantastic.
Still quite a breeze blowing through the Bristol Channel, but not as bad as yesterday  :o
Got to work and enjoyed a Waitrose 'Heston' mince pie washed down with a hot chocolate  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: trio25 on 06 January, 2012, 08:54:17 am
Tuesday and Wednesday I rode in off-road. On tuesday i had two trees to climb over, by wednesday it was up to four. Rode home both days on the road and it was slow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 06 January, 2012, 09:03:46 am
First commute since 8th December.
And a pretty ideal day for it. What wind there was was behind me, it was fairly busy through the village but no stupidity, and I'm not a total wreck with the unaccustomed exercise!

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 06 January, 2012, 09:08:06 am
The wind on the ride home last night was far steadier though quite strong. No overstrong gusts, just constant. My usual 29 to 30 minute ride took 33 minutes and 33 seconds ;D

This morning was much easier with the wind almost non existant.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 06 January, 2012, 10:11:35 am
OMG!!  Slow, fat, unfit, and suffering yesterday.

OTOH: A beautiful crisp cold and clear winter evening, with a starry moonlit night and pitch dark country lanes for some of my commute. Lovely!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 06 January, 2012, 05:39:28 pm
Mr Giant rider, I'm a fairly easy going sort who usually has no problems with anyone catching a draft, particulary after you'd worked so hard to avoid being caught, to be fair if the lights had been in your favour and you hadn't had to ease off for few seconds i probably wouldn't have caught you, HOWEVER a front tyre 6" from my rear dropout at 22mph would have been uncomfortable from someone whose bike skills I knew, but from a stranger engaged in a bit of SCR it was truly scary.

Glad I turned off 1/2 mile later or I think we might have had a 'discussion' over it. Other than that a brilliant commute. Absolutely flew home, amazing what motivates you  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 07 January, 2012, 02:00:08 pm
17.25 miles.  In 13 minutes.  On Brunel's Billiard Table, with 2250 hp at each end, and green signals throughout.

(I love my job!)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 09 January, 2012, 10:07:09 am
Today, I managed to collide with a dumper truck!

Happily it was at very slow speed and it was entirely my own fault.  I came up behind it at a set of lights (at the northern end of Southwark Bridge in London) and, as always, waited behind it.  When the lights changed all the traffic started to move forward and a large number of cyclists streamed through on the truck's left.  I was so busy keeping an eye on them and watching for the truck swinging in either direction that I failed to react when the truck stopped again and ploughed straight into the back of it. 

No damage, apart from a few bruises and an air of slight embarrassment  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 January, 2012, 12:03:48 pm
Oh dear.  Glad it wasn't worse.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 09 January, 2012, 12:42:35 pm
You wally! Glad you're unharmed though.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 09 January, 2012, 06:04:48 pm
This morning 6.15 am, rode out under a pure shimmering silver white almost perfect disc of a moon so bright it shone right through the dark clouds in the night sky.  So beautiful, I almost forgot I was on my commute in the inner city.  At Peckham Rye there was a power cut. No lights at all. What luck.  Even more besutiful under that moon.
   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: welshwheels on 09 January, 2012, 06:05:23 pm
I got soaked on the way home but weirdly i enjoyed the ride all the same  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 09 January, 2012, 06:37:26 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 09 January, 2012, 10:07:09 am
Today, I managed to collide with a dumper truck!

Happily it was at very slow speed and it was entirely my own fault.  I came up behind it at a set of lights (at the northern end of Southwark Bridge in London) and, as always, waited behind it.  When the lights changed all the traffic started to move forward and a large number of cyclists streamed through on the truck's left.  I was so busy keeping an eye on them and watching for the truck swinging in either direction that I failed to react when the truck stopped again and ploughed straight into the back of it. 

No damage, apart from a few bruises and an air of slight embarrassment  :-[

Glad you're still in one piece. That's a manoeuvre I've so far only ever pulled in my car (and that was 20 years ago)  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 09 January, 2012, 08:00:23 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 09 January, 2012, 10:07:09 am
Today, I managed to collide with a dumper truck!

similarly I know of one yacfer who did same with a skip in the roadway.Did him some damage which took a couple of years to recover from.It's likekly(sp) that his injuries would have been less serious if he had been wearing a helmet.
Despite the damaged brain box he's a right clever sod now though & has the academic paperwork to prove it 8)

you know who you are :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyUncle on 09 January, 2012, 09:06:22 pm
My first commute since starting work in York last month and first ride of the year.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adam on 09 January, 2012, 09:46:17 pm
No wind.   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 09 January, 2012, 10:34:55 pm
Quote from: Adam on 09 January, 2012, 09:46:17 pm
No wind.   :thumbsup:

 :thumbsup: + lots

It was a joy so cycle without having to battle the wind.  Just a shame I didn't know it was 'pedestrian attempted suicide day' today.  At least I know the disc brake the lbs fitted to my commuter works well.

Highlight of the commute was in the morning.  Leapfrogged a roadie a few times, then ended up next to him at a red light.  Light turns green and he races away - with me along side him.  :)  He's on the drops, giving it a good effort - with me cruising merrily along side him.  :D  After a few hundred meters I let him go, content in the knowledge I could have left him to eat my dust.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 10 January, 2012, 08:44:41 am
Quote from: Adam on 09 January, 2012, 09:46:17 pm
No wind.   :thumbsup:


:(

I take my bike into work on the train and ride home. The train ride is east - west and the cycle west - east. I want my tail wind back.  :'(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 10 January, 2012, 09:04:31 am
I've come to the conclusion that there's no good sounding like a smug bastard if I don't ride like that - all the time.

Bit of an off, today. Very last bit of my journey is on a shared "cyclepath" by the A40, going west on the south side. I've crested the hill, negotiated the eyes-in-the-back-of-the-head junction where cars come off the A40, and heading down to the point where I cross the A40 (here, http://g.co/maps/hu26e, no roadworks). Lights are green so I think "get a wiggle on to make sure I'm there for the red sequence". I come up to the feeder road onto the A40 (very limited early visibility, normally very quiet, doubt I've ever seen more than one car use it - (http://g.co/maps/7v25p this bit where the no entry signs are) still, look left just to check.

F-U-U-U-U-U-U-U-U-U-U-U-U-U-CK.

Arguably  I would have been better just to try to hoof it through, I chose to try to brake. It was touch and go. I got as far as in front of the small van, which had also tried braking.  The coming together was reasonably gentle, as these things go, and a couple of bruises and a small scrape is all the damage.

Driver was very shaken, too. No question it was my fault in my OWN eyes, but he was very apologetic. He made an interesting statement too: "I always look out for cyclists here.... just this morning I glanced down at my PDA, looked up and there you were." :facepalm: I think he might be more careful in future, he sounded as if he cared.

Truth no. 1, this is another piece of shit cyclepath. Truth no. 2, you really don't ever know when they're going to get you. I could have and should have avoided that one. Ho hum.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 10 January, 2012, 09:09:08 am
Ham, I think most of us are guilty of making assumptions like that from time to time about usually deserted roads…glad you are relatively ok.

Cut up and forced into the kerb today, clipping a pedal. It was all very low speed, I was perfectly fine so I carried on, but another cyclist asked if I was ok which was nice.

I thought it was just another white van, and indeed it was, but this one had the Met Police logo on the door   :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 10 January, 2012, 09:45:25 am
Go on - road safe it  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 January, 2012, 09:54:43 am
It happens, Ham.  That's a shocking pie e of cyclepath, at least as far as junctions are concerned.

You looked.  That's the important thing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 10 January, 2012, 10:29:08 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 10 January, 2012, 09:09:08 am
Ham, I think most of us are guilty of making assumptions like that from time to time about usually deserted roads…glad you are relatively ok.

Cut up and forced into the kerb today, clipping a pedal. It was all very low speed, I was perfectly fine so I carried on, but another cyclist asked if I was ok which was nice.

I thought it was just another white van, and indeed it was, but this one had the Met Police logo on the door   :facepalm:

Report it to the Metropolitan Police themselves. Did you get any identifying numbers from the van at all? Part registration or other identifying number?

Report it even if you didn't.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bloomers100 on 10 January, 2012, 10:29:55 am
Dropped the kids at school and rode in daylight, what a novelty, I saw stuff and that.

Ham, nstn glad you are both okay.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 10 January, 2012, 10:54:57 am
Eeek! Glad ham and nstn are OK.

A comprehensive defeat on the Tour de Commute this morning — of me.  Repeatedly. :(  Lots of idiots on the road, too, mostly on bicycles. :(

Left home much later than I usually do - after 08:00 - and was very surprised by the number of cyclists on CS2.  After seeing how many of them cycle, I'll definitely be making an effort to avoid CS2 at that time of day.

Still, if was good to be on the bike. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 10 January, 2012, 12:17:07 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 10 January, 2012, 10:54:57 am
Lots of idiots on the road, too, mostly on bicycles. :(

Oh yes especially the unlit salmon cyclist who decided to cut across the junction I was turning left into in order to mount the pavement depsite my big wavy arm signal, she looked non-plussed when she got an earful of abuse advice. I was actually relatively polite, for a given value of polite
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 10 January, 2012, 01:50:16 pm
Quote from: Si_Co on 10 January, 2012, 12:17:07 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 10 January, 2012, 10:54:57 am
Lots of idiots on the road, too, mostly on bicycles. :(

I was  tempted to have words with the Ninja Fixie who rode straight through a group of pedestrians crossing on the Embankment this morning, but when I caight up with him I realised just by looking at his expression that his was a Radio 1 mind in a Radio 4 world, so didn't bother.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 10 January, 2012, 01:57:53 pm
On Saturday's commute:

Quote
Thank you for your comments, it is so nice to get encouraging feedback.   We will pass them on to our fitter, W******.   My husband was in the passenger seat and is a keen cyclist so they certainly noticed you and told me about you when we met up later that morning.

Safe cycling

C******

(I wrote a company a letter of compliments for their driver's superb driving).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 10 January, 2012, 02:35:42 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 10 January, 2012, 01:57:53 pm
On Saturday's commute:

Quote
Thank you for your comments, it is so nice to get encouraging feedback.   We will pass them on to our fitter, W******.   My husband was in the passenger seat and is a keen cyclist so they certainly noticed you and told me about you when we met up later that morning.

Safe cycling

C******

(I wrote a company a letter of compliments for their driver's superb driving).

Clearly a standard letter straight out of C:\Documents\Forms\Fobbing%20%Off%20%Cyclists....

No, hang on...
 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 10 January, 2012, 06:00:21 pm
Oh ffs. Realised I was sub-optimal, decided to leave early and ride home (mostly) in daylight. At Whitechapel/Mile End Road junction, oncoming numpty just HAS to turn right in front of me. I brake. On diesel. Clothes and me (hand) damaged worse than this morning.

Not my day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 10 January, 2012, 06:53:37 pm
Quote from: Ham on 10 January, 2012, 06:00:21 pm
Oh ffs. Realised I was sub-optimal, decided to leave early and ride home (mostly) in daylight. At Whitechapel/Mile End Road junction, oncoming numpty just HAS to turn right in front of me. I brake. On diesel. Clothes and me (hand) damaged worse than this morning.

Not my day.

Cripes, you are having a bad day!! Hope the hand GWS  :-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 10 January, 2012, 07:12:00 pm
Commiserations and hopes for better/safer/bump free rides to work to all you YACFers who have had grump inducing commutes so far this year.
     2012 has, so far, been good to me.  Keeping my fingers crossed it remains that way.  Another terrific morning commute, which I extended in my usual fashion on such mornings via Greenwich and Blackheath. Another wonderful big moon, brilliant through the clouds and so warm I ended up in short sleeves climbing up through Greenwich to Blackheath.
My homeward commute is at a less unusual hour than the work bound.  Noticing that the slightly lighter traffic of last week is well and truly back to its usual mad chaos through Peckham.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 10 January, 2012, 07:14:55 pm
One of our friends:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Be9zGY5LofA
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 10 January, 2012, 07:30:59 pm
Fabulous ride home this evening, 14 miles: 50 minutes and no aggro from any drivers.  ;D

I can only assume my tail wind had got up again
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 10 January, 2012, 07:55:31 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 10 January, 2012, 07:14:55 pm
One of our friends:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Be9zGY5LofA

*wince*

I'm still nervous about cornering since that happened to me last year  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 10 January, 2012, 08:05:25 pm
Quote from: matthew on 10 January, 2012, 07:30:59 pm
Fabulous ride home this evening, 14 miles: 50 minutes and no aggro from any drivers.  ;D
I had a good homeward run this evening, too - one of my colleagues said 'have you considered going $DIFFERENT_WAY', and since the level of the river has dropped enough to make the riverside paths usable again, if a bit muddy, I thought 'sod it' and went home the way he suggested, via the university and the Mil-loony-um Bridge. Only a couple of km longer than my more direct route, but much more fun if you factor out the complete donuts who walk along an extremely unlit path wearing dark clothing  ::-)

Whilst waiting at the lights near the barracks one guy asked me where I got my retina-ripping front light (a Serfas True-500) from, and on the road up into the village I got flashed at by an oncoming car so I guess the light must have been doing its job (or it could have been the Cyo, or the Alpkit Gamma on my helmet)

Think I'll try the same route the 'opposite' direction tomorrow (and in daylight!) :)

Been a while since I've had as much fun on the bike ...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 10 January, 2012, 08:27:02 pm
I actually rode the bike, which was nice.
Well done for still being here to those having a less good time of it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 10 January, 2012, 08:48:37 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 10 January, 2012, 07:14:55 pm
One of our friends:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Be9zGY5LofA

Horrible feeling isn't it......

(even if some don't have as far to fall  :demon: )
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 10 January, 2012, 08:54:23 pm
Quote from: Ham on 10 January, 2012, 08:48:37 pm
(even if some don't have as far to fall  :demon: )

That's cancelled out by invariably landing on something expensive.  Bar-end shifters are practically a consumable item on a USS recumbent...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 11 January, 2012, 07:57:01 am
Lost for words.

Seen on the A417 at Ampney Park (a racetrack despite the 50mph limit) .  It's pitch black and what comes towards me?  An idiot riding a bike with no front light at all and the feeblest of rear lights. 

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 11 January, 2012, 09:46:59 am
On the way home last night encountered two bike police stopped in a side road for a bit of a chat and pointed out to one of them that his rear light was pointed at the floor and got a cheery "thanks mate"

Very wet today
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 11 January, 2012, 10:03:17 am
Quote from: TheLurker on 11 January, 2012, 07:57:01 am
Lost for words.

Seen on the A417 at Ampney Park (a racetrack despite the 50mph limit) .  It's pitch black and what comes towards me?  An idiot riding a bike with no front light at all and the feeblest of rear lights.
There's been one of those on the unlit NSL road out of Yeovil several times recently. He does have a rear light, but I've no idea how he sees where he's going. I've commuted that route for the past eight winters and it is scary if my main light fails!
And he had the cheek to wave fingers at me when I didn't dip my headlights for him recently. (he seems to be riding towards the village at about the same time we tend to be driving in the opposite direction when going out for the evening)

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 11 January, 2012, 11:14:50 am
Quote from: SteveC on 11 January, 2012, 10:03:17 am
There's been one of those on the unlit NSL road out of Yeovil several times recently. He does have a rear light, but I've no idea how he sees where he's going. I've commuted that route for the past eight winters and it is scary if my main light fails!
And he had the cheek to wave fingers at me when I didn't dip my headlights for him recently. (he seems to be riding towards the village at about the same time we tend to be driving in the opposite direction when going out for the evening)

S

Now I'm not condoning the clown with no front light, but I can kinda sympathise with his view. He's probably built up some excellent night vision, only for some c@nt with a super bright light to ride towards him and destroy it so he's now all blind.  ;D  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 11 January, 2012, 02:59:11 pm
I have a certain amount of sympathy as well, and have been keeping a better look out for the idiot since and have been dipping my lights when I see him.  Seeing him is of course the problem! :facepalm:

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 11 January, 2012, 03:14:07 pm
First, the bad.  Too many drivers who were momentarily inconvenienced (by other selfish drivers) took this as an excuse to be equally selfish and disregarding of the Law.  >:( 

Also, saw a young woman cyclist almost taken out by a motorbike - but it was all her fault.  PTW got to the lights in front of me, took a position just to the left of the middle of the lane and was clearly indicating left (I ended up behind him and slightly to his right).  Just as the lights turned green the woman pulled up between the kerb and the motorbike, with the intent of carrying on straight ahead.  :facepalm:  She then was staring daggers at the motorcyclist!  ::-)

Next, the good.  The weather was lovely and mild and most of the roads were clear and quiet.  I had a view of the moon, barely covered by wisps of clouds at the start of the commute, then I noticed the gorgeous sunrise.  By the time I hit the Isle of Dogs I just had to stop and take a picture:
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-lPPHPjnQD1o/Tw2kmVYOpJI/AAAAAAAABM4/Fg9iEn3racw/s576/IMG_0081.JPG)
I've done no tweaking of the photograph.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 11 January, 2012, 03:19:45 pm
Wow, lovely eh?

I had a nice ride to go do some shopping, lovely in the warm sunshine and mild wind. The bit I left out is the climbing with 50kg of shopping in the Burley trailer, up what I think is a 20% hill. Luckily the three year old was at nursery rather than also in the trailer and I was using his Mum's MTB with a super low gear, else I'd have blown a gasket.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 11 January, 2012, 04:36:27 pm
I would have taken that 20% hill with 50kg in my stride. Literally, by getting off and walking!

Lovely photo, Andrij.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 11 January, 2012, 04:44:48 pm
I was riding at a rather slower than walking pace, I can assure you!!! I dunno what the small ring is on that MTB, but it's tiny,  the back is a 32. Even then I was grinding away, barely able to balance.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 11 January, 2012, 08:44:27 pm
Lovely two rides today bar the usual numpties.

Best bit was I hit the unlit part of my commute before the sunrise so got to see the world gradually change from monochrome to colour.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 11 January, 2012, 09:57:40 pm
Bookends!  :D

Started my day riding towrd the moon - ended it the same way. :)

My road is narrow, one way; sometimes have impatient drivers right on my tail, even when I'm doing 20mph (the speed limit).  This evening a car hung well back, then paused beside me when I stopped in front of my flat.  The driver gave me a big grin and a thumbs up.   :thumbsup:

It's days like today that make commuting worth while.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 11 January, 2012, 10:07:48 pm
Very nice photo andrij - it really was a staggering sunrise this morning for sure.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 12 January, 2012, 01:15:23 pm
 A grim return home via Limehouse Cut last night which was partly closed by police because of this (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-16522537).
The rumour among bystanders was that two teenagers had a fight and one fell in the water.
I then managed to re-join the cut near Three Mills to be intimidated by a group of youth hanging around the locks,  probably excited by the recent events (there is usually nobody there).


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 12 January, 2012, 04:44:06 pm
A fifteen mile loop out after yesterday's light and headwind out--dark and tailwind back ride out to my appointment. Went out to have a look at Black's to see if anything was going cheap after their takeover (nothing) and then out to Three Bridges T*sco. Coming along Hazelwick Avenue to pick up the main road for Pound Hill and home I was sort of overtaken by a an articulated lorry, AV02JOU. I say 'sort of' because the only thing that let him get past was my dive across the give way lines of a side road just before his trailer wheels would have had me.

Anyone got the address for ant Sussex equivalent of Roadsmart? He was doing a plant pick-up at Three Bridges Station.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 12 January, 2012, 04:55:08 pm
Sussex police were running a scheme.

While I look for that, the job at Three Bridges is being carried out by Bam Nuttall. I've got a number for the office doing the work if you want.

<fx: keyboard tappity tap>

http://www.operationcrackdown.org/ (http://www.operationcrackdown.org/) is the Sussex Police scheme.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 12 January, 2012, 06:56:46 pm
Tim, I sort of thought you might have the answer. Ta!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 12 January, 2012, 07:18:01 pm
Today's commute into work was fine, if a little hard work, due to post Christmas unfitness and a hard morris practice1 last night.
The totally cold shower when I got there however...  :o :hand:

S

Note 1: they do happen.  Morris dancing isn't as namby pamby as many would have you believe.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 12 January, 2012, 09:49:43 pm
Quote from: SteveC on 12 January, 2012, 07:18:01 pm
Today's commute into work was fine, if a little hard work, due to post Christmas unfitness and a hard morris practice1 last night.
The totally cold shower when I got there however...  :o :hand:

S

Note 1: they do happen.  Morris dancing isn't as namby pamby as many would have you believe.

I used tp dance with two sides years ago. I was also involved with Rathead Gumby Morris. Morris is hard enough; RGM does it in wellies.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 12 January, 2012, 11:44:48 pm
It was okay going in, but too cold coming home.  Foska Bones day for me tomorrow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 13 January, 2012, 08:11:12 am
Stayed at work til 9pm then cycled to the station to catch the train to London for the sleeper. Got a puncture and only just managed to catch the 21.55 having intended the 21.45. I got on the train as the clock said 21.54:57...

Puncture was a huge flint. They'd just gritted!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 13 January, 2012, 09:23:54 am
First commute of the year.

Went over the hill, was cold but not icy.
I was as slow as a very slow thing!
Averaged just over 12mph!

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bloomers100 on 13 January, 2012, 09:37:25 am
Twas chilly in Essex and even colder through the South Weald freezer phenomenom, no wind though. I listen to 5 live on the DAB during the morning commute, they had an astronomy person on who talked through what was in the sky this morning. It was very informative and I was able to find Mars, Jupiter and some stars he named that I've now forgotten, bit like going to a free planetarium but real and that, I had to stop my bike to look up Uranus though. IGMC.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 13 January, 2012, 10:33:08 am
Bloomin' cold this morning - a proper frost for the first time in ages. It's been so mild lately, I didn't even bother with my gloves in my rush to get out of the house, but I very soon had to stop and put them on.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 13 January, 2012, 11:19:02 am
An observation from the SW London 'burbs and outwards.

I didn't cycle to work for all of November and December, but have commuted every day this year. I could swear that there are more vehicles getting closer to me than before, but I'm prepared to accept that I have become less battle hardened in my two month layoff, or perhaps I am cycling slightly more to the left, I dunno. Very intimidating. (And by 'more' we're not talking hundreds. On a typical one way commute I would have perhaps one pass that I deemed to be too close, now it's running at about two or three, and worryingly it's disproportionately middle sized (7.5 tonne) trucks that seem to be the worst offenders.)

Aside from all that, what a glorious morning today, little wind, a clear moon and bright crispy sunlight.

On arrival at work there was a camera crew filming arrivals for a new site induction video. They're dead keen on including cyclists in this one, but I've been told that they can't use me 'cos I'm not in hi-viz and am unhelmeted.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 13 January, 2012, 11:35:48 am
Quote from: hatler on 13 January, 2012, 11:19:02 am

On arrival at work there was a camera crew filming arrivals for a new site induction video. They're dead keen on including cyclists in this one, but I've been told that they can't use me 'cos I'm not in hi-viz and am unhelmeted.

Be fair, youhave to have hi-viz and a helmet to walk in your car park, carry a ladder, hold a video camera, whatever.

 :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 13 January, 2012, 12:28:29 pm
Quote from: Ham on 13 January, 2012, 11:35:48 am
Quote from: hatler on 13 January, 2012, 11:19:02 am

On arrival at work there was a camera crew filming arrivals for a new site induction video. They're dead keen on including cyclists in this one, but I've been told that they can't use me 'cos I'm not in hi-viz and am unhelmeted.

Be fair, youhave to have hi-viz and a helmet to walk in your car park, carry a ladder, hold a video camera, whatever.

 :demon:
So true.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 13 January, 2012, 03:52:52 pm
Quote from: Ashaman42 on 11 January, 2012, 08:44:27 pm
Lovely two rides today bar the usual numpties.

Best bit was I hit the unlit part of my commute before the sunrise so got to see the world gradually change from monochrome to colour.

+1

went the long way around away as approaches to the ford would probably have been a bit icy.  Saw an article in the comic about cyclists being bullied on the road by motorist.  I do get bullied by aggressive drivers - but most of those are the drivers who bully me when I'm in a car trying to do the speed limit - so its not just cyclists that suffer because of the bad pennies....

...although I do have a hunk of metal to protect me from the bad pennies' mistakes when I'm in a car.    :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 13 January, 2012, 04:19:40 pm
Due to the misdeeds of various denizens of Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire, I have been a twat in a car for every journey this week (though a well behaved law abiding twat).

Arse >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 13 January, 2012, 05:05:07 pm
Left early enough to have commute in daylight, and in nice sunshine.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 13 January, 2012, 06:23:04 pm
Cold and slow ride home.

Some less-than-talented individual had rolled their Kia 4x4 on the Cairn at around 4:30 or so, and what a spectacular mess there was!

There were a couple of other cars stopped to help, and he seemed to be OK, just looking a bit dazed and confused.   I just carried on.   I walked my bike for the 100m or so on the heather verge in order to avoid the sea of broken glass.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: corshamjim on 13 January, 2012, 06:39:20 pm
My winter bike has a name.  At the bike shelter, my workmate Chris said "you got Aunt Bessie out today then".  So Aunt Bessie is what she is!  :thumbsup:

Aunt Bessie is an old Raleigh MTB I bought recently an put winter tyres on.  She's a cantankerous old lady.  Sometimes she's really hard work, but sometimes like this evening she rides really well.  On Sunday she was downright arthritic!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 13 January, 2012, 07:43:09 pm
Another SLOW end of week commute home - Cold (0 degrees C) but thankfully windless. Only managed to average 20kph.  :'(
Bottom bracket (Shimano cheese) seems to have started clicking after only 2500km - Don't they usually last longer than this? Its one of those new fangled external bearing things - I have a Hope ceramic spare so that will have to go on this weekend.   >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 13 January, 2012, 07:58:02 pm
Quote from: pdm on 13 January, 2012, 07:43:09 pm
Only managed to average 20kph.  :'(

some folk would regard that as more than acceptable

ymmobviouslyv.
 :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 13 January, 2012, 08:31:33 pm
Quote from: pdm on 13 January, 2012, 07:43:09 pm
Another SLOW end of week commute home - Cold (0 degrees C) but thankfully windless. Only managed to average 20kph.  :'(
Bottom bracket (Shimano cheese) seems to have started clicking after only 2500km - Don't they usually last longer than this? Its one of those new fangled external bearing things - I have a Hope ceramic spare so that will have to go on this weekend.   >:(

Your slow speed is the same as mine today, as grumbled above.
I'm always surprised how much the cold kills my performance.
It shaves 3mph off my average, over 40 miles.
From 15 down to 12.
That's really a lot.

It seems to be a combination of things:
Kit: I'm wearing a lot of heavy and in-flexible kit compared to summer.
Biology: I think my body is using much more of its energy just keeping warm, and there;s less available for muscles.
Biology 2: Even with reduced input energy, I thing my muscles just don't work as well at low temperatures.
Mind: State of mind is set to 'slow'.

Re: BB clicking:  Every pedal-rate click I've had has turned out to be not the BB.   Check pedals ( remove, re-grease, re-tighten ), and seatpost ( same treatment ) and saddle.   Also, check it's not something on you ( eg coins in a pocket ).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 13 January, 2012, 08:39:48 pm
I bloody knew I should have ridden.  Waited half an hour in the effing cold for a bus that never showed.  Two hours til the next one.  Late finish as a result, and a day of all out of sorts because of the start.  Grump.  I need to WTFU and get back to commuting if there isn't actual ice on the ground.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 13 January, 2012, 08:42:16 pm
As I am still nursing my leg I am only doing a half commute at the moment.  I ride from Radyr NW Cardiff to the East side of the Bridgend Industrial Estate.  In the evening I ride to Bridgend or Pencoed station and take the train to Radyr.

Next week I intend to ride to Pencoed and catch the train to Pontyclun and continue home on bike.  Then at the end of the week I hope my injury finally seals over and I will resume my full commute.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 13 January, 2012, 10:22:14 pm
Quote from: Crock of Gold on 18 August, 2011, 12:16:33 pm
Quote from: hellymedic on 18 August, 2011, 11:54:26 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 18 August, 2011, 11:41:29 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 17 August, 2011, 11:12:23 pm
One of my friends had a nasty accident in Clapham yesterday. He was overtaking a rather slow open-topped tourist bus, and the next thing he can remember is coming to underneath the frigging bus  ??? His bike has been totalled but apart from some injuries he is still with us.

My friend who ended up underneath a tourist bus on Clapham Common is looking for any witnesses who saw this on Tuesday morning:

Quote
Gah. Why won't anyone tell me what happened to me on Tuesday? I don't know where the bits of my bike are, I don't know how I got in that mess, I don't know a damn thing. All I can find out comes from the local press / twitter which is as much help as a chocolate teapot.

Spoke to the police and they're useless - gave me a number and told me to wait three weeks. Happened just before 8am on Tuesday. I know I ended up under an open topped tourist bus. I want to know how? Did I do something dumb or not? I hate not knowing.

This thread in lfgss may be helpful. http://www.lfgss.com/thread70757.html (http://www.lfgss.com/thread70757.html)

Shite! Thread here on CycleChat as well. I went past just as you were being stretchered onto the ambulance and people were starting to clean up the helmet, shoes, cut clothes etc. Very sad. Road was closed so I was walking the bike along the common. The air ambulance made me fear for the worst.

http://www.cyclechat.net/topic/90715-cyclist-down-at-clapham-southside/

Arrgh! Have just had this update from my friend:

Quote
Some copper has decided the brakes weren't working causing the accident. I've been summonsed for riding without consideration for other road users and riding with defective brakes.

We are trying to get more details, but if anyone has any advice please let me know.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 13 January, 2012, 11:13:37 pm
jackal on lfgss http://www.lfgss.com/post2352096-4.html (http://www.lfgss.com/post2352096-4.html) heard that overtaking car squeezed eldo against bus and sped off. I don't know what the source of that was. IME commuting cyclists usually have sound brakes. I would not be surprised are trying to shift the blame cos they CBA to look for the offending motorist (and the head-injured victim has little memory of events). (It's probably too late now anyway.) Does eldo belong to any cycling organisation? I think legal advice is needed.
Maybe contact jackal via lfgss.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 13 January, 2012, 11:29:38 pm
The driver of the tourist bus should remember something, particularly if there was a car involved. Is there any record of what company was operating the bus?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 14 January, 2012, 01:43:09 am
Started nights tonight. Hard frost as I went out, and I could feel the air against my shinsn (3/4 length shorts). The glitter of hoar frost everywhere, but no ice. Alpkit head torch getting good use.

Needed another layer up top...might switch to the winter gloves tomorrow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dinamo on 14 January, 2012, 08:07:14 am
Minus 3.5 degrees this morning.
Soon warmed up, a lovely ride in.
50 mins to ride 20 kms  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 15 January, 2012, 12:44:46 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 13 January, 2012, 10:22:14 pm
Arrgh! Have just had this update from my friend:

Quote
Some copper has decided the brakes weren't working causing the accident. I've been summonsed for riding without consideration for other road users and riding with defective brakes.

We are trying to get more details, but if anyone has any advice please let me know.

Oh, ffs, that's awful! I can't offer any legal advice but I would be seriously looking to challenge what some copper has decided - assuming he's not a forensic investigator.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 16 January, 2012, 08:58:19 am
It was quite cold at 5:30 this morning.  Last week, I was riding around in a short-sleeved t-shirt.  This morning, very glad of glove liners, a buff and a winter cap.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smurphboy on 16 January, 2012, 09:03:00 am
First proper cold commute - only minus 3 (we had minus 8 last winter) but cold enough that I couldn't get warm. Might be time for tights!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 16 January, 2012, 09:07:04 am
Blimey.  That was bracing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 January, 2012, 10:56:18 am
I dropped the van off in Croydon, noting the light frost on the roads, and the amount of motor traffic above that. :(

Then I rode up to work, cutting through Brockwell Park and Kennington.  The roads there were icier than in Croydon, which is unusual. 

Nice ride, motons aside.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 16 January, 2012, 11:10:58 am
I rode to work!  First time in nearly two weeks, after some stupid chest infection.

Black Ice forecast for Leeds, so I rode the crisp muncher. It isn't all that slow on the flat, but oh my it is hard work getting up molehills.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Charlie Boy on 16 January, 2012, 11:35:11 am
A bit nippy. Icebergs in my bottle. But glad I made the effort.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 16 January, 2012, 11:46:27 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 13 January, 2012, 10:22:14 pm
Quote from: Crock of Gold on 18 August, 2011, 12:16:33 pm
Quote from: hellymedic on 18 August, 2011, 11:54:26 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 18 August, 2011, 11:41:29 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 17 August, 2011, 11:12:23 pm
One of my friends had a nasty accident in Clapham yesterday. He was overtaking a rather slow open-topped tourist bus, and the next thing he can remember is coming to underneath the frigging bus  ??? His bike has been totalled but apart from some injuries he is still with us.

My friend who ended up underneath a tourist bus on Clapham Common is looking for any witnesses who saw this on Tuesday morning:

Quote
Gah. Why won't anyone tell me what happened to me on Tuesday? I don't know where the bits of my bike are, I don't know how I got in that mess, I don't know a damn thing. All I can find out comes from the local press / twitter which is as much help as a chocolate teapot.

Spoke to the police and they're useless - gave me a number and told me to wait three weeks. Happened just before 8am on Tuesday. I know I ended up under an open topped tourist bus. I want to know how? Did I do something dumb or not? I hate not knowing.

This thread in lfgss may be helpful. http://www.lfgss.com/thread70757.html (http://www.lfgss.com/thread70757.html)

Shite! Thread here on CycleChat as well. I went past just as you were being stretchered onto the ambulance and people were starting to clean up the helmet, shoes, cut clothes etc. Very sad. Road was closed so I was walking the bike along the common. The air ambulance made me fear for the worst.

http://www.cyclechat.net/topic/90715-cyclist-down-at-clapham-southside/

Arrgh! Have just had this update from my friend:

Quote
Some copper has decided the brakes weren't working causing the accident. I've been summonsed for riding without consideration for other road users and riding with defective brakes.

We are trying to get more details, but if anyone has any advice please let me know.

Even if your friend isn't a member of CTC, it could well be worth contacting their solicitors for advice on this! http://www.rjw.co.uk/legal-services/accidents-injury/cycling-accident-compensation-claims/

Alternatively if your friend has AA membership or legal protection in their home insurance they may be able to get legal representation paid for.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 16 January, 2012, 12:08:10 pm
I was thinking earlier perhaps I should close the pit zips.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 16 January, 2012, 12:23:04 pm
Brrrrrrrrrrr......... although I did like looking at the lumps of ice flying off the front tyre.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 16 January, 2012, 04:28:41 pm
In the chuffing cage again this morning but, as I negotiated an Oxford roundabout, I spied a bloke on a soot Trek in bibshorts and SS jersey.

His exposed flesh looked a tad red. (It was -4 when I left home in Marlow some 40 minutes previously).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 16 January, 2012, 06:35:55 pm
Some water leaked from my bottle on the way to work. It's under a mile and a half to get to work, but that was far enough for it to freeze onto my downtube.
Still some frost on the tarmac on the way home. Looked up to the clear sky to see Jupiter.
Hope I get up early tomorrow for a little ride in the winter wonderland before I have to be at work...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 16 January, 2012, 06:52:14 pm
I left home at 6:30 with two panniers and arrived at work an hour later with only one. I have absolutely no idea when it fell off (my head was wrapped up in anti-frost gear.) My Ortliebs are a tight fit on that Madison rack, and I must have forgotten to push the clips closed.  ::-)

Amazingly, a bloke dropped the bag off in reception half way through the morning, just as I was trying to work out how to tell a class of Y9 kids that I'd lost all their books and work...

The receptionist just took the bag and didn't ask the guy who he was or where he'd found the bag. I don't know how to thank him!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 16 January, 2012, 06:53:53 pm
Wow, how cool is that!!!!  Big ups for good Samaritan strangers!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 16 January, 2012, 08:03:42 pm
Quote from: Feline on 16 January, 2012, 11:46:27 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 13 January, 2012, 10:22:14 pm
Quote from: Crock of Gold on 18 August, 2011, 12:16:33 pm
Quote from: hellymedic on 18 August, 2011, 11:54:26 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 18 August, 2011, 11:41:29 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 17 August, 2011, 11:12:23 pm
One of my friends had a nasty accident in Clapham yesterday. He was overtaking a rather slow open-topped tourist bus, and the next thing he can remember is coming to underneath the frigging bus  ??? His bike has been totalled but apart from some injuries he is still with us.

My friend who ended up underneath a tourist bus on Clapham Common is looking for any witnesses who saw this on Tuesday morning:

Quote
Gah. Why won't anyone tell me what happened to me on Tuesday? I don't know where the bits of my bike are, I don't know how I got in that mess, I don't know a damn thing. All I can find out comes from the local press / twitter which is as much help as a chocolate teapot.

Spoke to the police and they're useless - gave me a number and told me to wait three weeks. Happened just before 8am on Tuesday. I know I ended up under an open topped tourist bus. I want to know how? Did I do something dumb or not? I hate not knowing.

This thread in lfgss may be helpful. http://www.lfgss.com/thread70757.html (http://www.lfgss.com/thread70757.html)

Shite! Thread here on CycleChat as well. I went past just as you were being stretchered onto the ambulance and people were starting to clean up the helmet, shoes, cut clothes etc. Very sad. Road was closed so I was walking the bike along the common. The air ambulance made me fear for the worst.

http://www.cyclechat.net/topic/90715-cyclist-down-at-clapham-southside/

Arrgh! Have just had this update from my friend:

Quote
Some copper has decided the brakes weren't working causing the accident. I've been summonsed for riding without consideration for other road users and riding with defective brakes.

We are trying to get more details, but if anyone has any advice please let me know.

Even if your friend isn't a member of CTC, it could well be worth contacting their solicitors for advice on this! http://www.rjw.co.uk/legal-services/accidents-injury/cycling-accident-compensation-claims/

Alternatively if your friend has AA membership or legal protection in their home insurance they may be able to get legal representation paid for.
He definitely needs legal advice.  It seems to me, however, that if his bike was wrecked in the incident as various bits of the thread seem to imply, it would be difficult to prove what the condition of the brakes was prior to the accident.  Unless of course the brake pads were completely worn down.  I have been involved in a few collisions, shall we say, especially in my younger days.  On quite a few of these occasions, the brakes were damaged in these situations and rendered ineffective by the collision itself.  It could be the that this is what has happened here.
  On the other hand, (and I am not implying that the cyclist in this case was running brakes such as those I am about to describe) I have come across bikes on some of our open to all  rides that we Lewisham peeps (and others) run, where the brake pads were non existent and the braking surfaces were rim and brake shoe whilst the rider rode on, sweetly oblivious to the resulting teeth destroying noise, apparently believing this to be normal.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dinamo on 16 January, 2012, 08:22:08 pm
Took a different route into work earlier.
Down Fishponds Road to Eastville then crossed the busy A38 in Stokes Croft, then the gradual climb up to Clifton passing the BRI & the University building over Brunels Suspension Bridge and down the A369 to work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 January, 2012, 08:47:22 pm
Yay for Gordy's good fortune :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 16 January, 2012, 09:27:08 pm
Well I probably shouldn't have sworn at the car driver as technically I did pull out on him at the roundabout. On the other hand he could try using the little flashing lights on the corners of the car.

Still my fault for trusting his indication (or lack therof) but his road positioning looked like he was going straight on too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 16 January, 2012, 09:42:42 pm
Oh lordy.

I seem to have agreed to a full 40 mile each way commute up the Cairn tomorrow.
Idiot boy.

It was coldy-cold and frosty on the top this AM, but not actually icy.
We'll see how it goes.
Slow, I expect.



Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 17 January, 2012, 09:12:36 am
The good news is that at Parliament Square traffic lights there were about 20 cyclists; it was great being part of a bunch going round there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 17 January, 2012, 09:26:43 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 17 January, 2012, 09:12:36 am
The good news is that at Parliament Square traffic lights there were about 20 cyclists; it was great being part of a bunch going round there.
You make it sound like there's some bad news coming ...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 17 January, 2012, 09:28:25 am
A beautiful morning. Crisp, bright, no ice. And traffic jams everywhere. Let me count ...

Eight in all, even in places that are normally jam free.

The bike is KING !!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 17 January, 2012, 10:34:22 am
Same here.
Minus 5 when I set off at 6:30, but it felt fine.
Nice crisp day, cold but no ice.
But no traffic  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 17 January, 2012, 10:45:10 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 13 January, 2012, 10:22:14 pm
Quote from: Crock of Gold on 18 August, 2011, 12:16:33 pm
Quote from: hellymedic on 18 August, 2011, 11:54:26 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 18 August, 2011, 11:41:29 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 17 August, 2011, 11:12:23 pm
One of my friends had a nasty accident in Clapham yesterday. He was overtaking a rather slow open-topped tourist bus, and the next thing he can remember is coming to underneath the frigging bus  ??? His bike has been totalled but apart from some injuries he is still with us.

My friend who ended up underneath a tourist bus on Clapham Common is looking for any witnesses who saw this on Tuesday morning:

Quote
Gah. Why won't anyone tell me what happened to me on Tuesday? I don't know where the bits of my bike are, I don't know how I got in that mess, I don't know a damn thing. All I can find out comes from the local press / twitter which is as much help as a chocolate teapot.

Spoke to the police and they're useless - gave me a number and told me to wait three weeks. Happened just before 8am on Tuesday. I know I ended up under an open topped tourist bus. I want to know how? Did I do something dumb or not? I hate not knowing.

This thread in lfgss may be helpful. http://www.lfgss.com/thread70757.html (http://www.lfgss.com/thread70757.html)

Shite! Thread here on CycleChat as well. I went past just as you were being stretchered onto the ambulance and people were starting to clean up the helmet, shoes, cut clothes etc. Very sad. Road was closed so I was walking the bike along the common. The air ambulance made me fear for the worst.

http://www.cyclechat.net/topic/90715-cyclist-down-at-clapham-southside/

Arrgh! Have just had this update from my friend:

Quote
Some copper has decided the brakes weren't working causing the accident. I've been summonsed for riding without consideration for other road users and riding with defective brakes.

We are trying to get more details, but if anyone has any advice please let me know.

Disclosure is your friend.

Your friend is entitled to disclosure of the prosecution case against him, which will reveal the evidence on which the conclusion that your friends brakes were defective was drawn. It will also include unused material- material that does not form part of the prosecution case- statements that do not support the case but may weaken it, details of any witnesses that may not have been spoken to etc.

Also of note is that tghe prosecution has to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that your friends brakes were defective before the collision. They do net necesarily need to prove that they were a contributory factor, just that they were defective prior to.

Your friend then needs to get his bike back and examine the brakes (or have an expert do so) to try and establish if the brakes are defective and whether the defect could have been caused by the collision (reasonable doubt?).

If he has the bike back and it has been repaired, examine the details of the repair. if the barkes have not been repaired/ adjusted since the collision, are they working? If they are, they were probably fine at the time of the incident.

Another thing to bear in mind however is that your friend has no recollection of the incident. The police could be correct about the brakes.

In taht case, why were they defective and when did the defect occur? It could be that they were defective due to a mecahinical failure at the time your friend applied the brakes to avoid the collision. Sudden unforseeable failure may be a defence.

Hope this helps somewhat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 17 January, 2012, 10:47:07 am
Back in the saddle :thumbsup:

Breathless ride home last night due to lack of practice.

Challenging ride in this morning because of the cold and lack of practice. Spinning out slightly when honking up Quary Wood Lane towards Winter Hill. Not sure if due to slightly icy roads or diesel but it made for some entertainment ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 17 January, 2012, 10:51:50 am
Quote from: hatler on 17 January, 2012, 09:26:43 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 17 January, 2012, 09:12:36 am
The good news is that at Parliament Square traffic lights there were about 20 cyclists; it was great being part of a bunch going round there.
You make it sound like there's some bad news coming ...

A pessimist is never disappointed! ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moultonaught on 17 January, 2012, 12:01:41 pm
First cycle commute of the year. 

Was an hour later than usual due to playing 'hunt the keys'. A lovely but chilly ride in glorious sunshine. 8 miles at 12.7 mph average which was higher than I expected, and is my normal pottering speed when fit (which I most definately am not currently)  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 17 January, 2012, 12:14:53 pm
Lovely crisp morning -5 when i left home.  The roads were clear of ice (except my lane as per usual) & there was hardly any wind so made for a pleasant ride in, my bidon was solid by the time I got to work though.  Averaged 16mph so a little faster than expected & looking forward to the ride home now  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 17 January, 2012, 12:37:50 pm
Witnessed an idiot on a pushbike deciding to leave the secondary position he was in and turn right accross the lane and into the other side of the road without looking back, forcing a Merc. to break sharply to let him live (and giving him a deserved long blast of his horn). No apologies from the cyclist, who carried on with a dismissive wave of the hand.
Very colourful sunrise over east London this morning, with Anish Kapoor's industrial sculpture  (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ArcelorMittal_Orbit) nicely sticking out of the industrial horizon.
Moorhens testing the fragile crust of frost currently forming over Regent's canal, and breaking the ice despite their tiny mass.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 January, 2012, 12:45:43 pm
Lovely ride.  Just a lovely ride. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 17 January, 2012, 01:26:14 pm
Lovely morning.  In fact, I was enjoying it so much I decided to play the "wonder where that road goes and if it might be useful alternative route?" and turned left where I usually go straight ahead in Bermondsey.  As it happened, it didn't go anywhere very interesting, and was of only marginal benefit as an alternative route, but at least now I know  :)

Also observed some extremely courteous and thoughtful PTW riding on Southwark Bridge, despite several cyclists being idjits.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dinamo on 17 January, 2012, 07:44:14 pm
Picture taken last night on my camera phone, slightly blurred but I thought it was a great picture.
Taken just before 5pm.

(http://i229.photobucket.com/albums/ee253/ianrsparrow/16012012441.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 17 January, 2012, 08:04:23 pm
Humm.  This evening's ride home over the hill was in dense fog / low cloud.
It's really amazing how as you climb, you get to a point where the temperature has dropped just exactly to the dew-point, and you go from perfectly clear to dense fog.   Like a switch.

Teh deth lazer projected a beam into the murk, and cars coming towards me all saw me about half a mile away it seems.

Dropped back out of it again as quickly, in a rather cold and damp descent.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 January, 2012, 09:05:12 pm
I had an interesting ride.  Up to Parliament Square first to speak to the remaining protestors, then a slip through the streets on my old route home from when I worked at ICE.  Rather than Chelsea Bridge, I went over Albert Bridge, all lit up.  After Battersea Park, there was a car blocking the cycle lane at the turn, who turned into the lane, despite the number of cyclists, and I swear he would have tried to drive all the way along it.  I saw a chance and slipped round him, then became inexplicably sloooooooow.  Y'know, it happens.  But it cleared the lane for the pedal powered, and we left the silly drive behind.  Then to Balham and home on my usual route.

Part way down Upper Tooting Road a driver lurched his car forward as if to pull out directly in front of me.  'STOP!' I barked. 'WAIT RIGHT THERE!'.  He did, but gave a pathetic peep of his horn.  This sort of thing is sadly common on that particular road.  I don't know wht.

Shortly after, all traffic was being directed by a Police officer in the road.  To my left, an ambulance.  A road joining the main street from the left.  A car stopped across CS7.  A bike.  On the downhill side, a person in Hi-Viz (a cyclist? possibly a woman) was lying, conscious but strapped to a stretcher.

I don't particularly want to draw conclusions, but I couldn't help speculating. :(

Hope she's OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moultonaught on 17 January, 2012, 09:49:28 pm
A chilly ride home, as I didn't get on the bike until 8pm but a really nice ride, and despite being  my first day back commuting by bike it hurt far less than I thought it would.

Tomorrow I've got to visit the office we're moving to, so no cycling (until I retrieve the Brompton from FiLs barn) but roll on Thursday when I'll be back awheel...

now, where's the Radox?  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 17 January, 2012, 10:35:57 pm
Working late tonight til 8p.m. and its a quiet ride home. Just after Albert Bridge on the Embankment this cyclist kept behind me as I sucked up the wind but she kindly passed me and she looked like a very fit individual. As I got to the right turn onto Vauxhall Bridge I pulled into the ASL and ahead of her as she had snuck behind a van. I kept ahead of her for the next 8 miles and (apart from our rant about cycling couples, in which the male almost never wait for their female companion) we stayed together, but by gosh she pushed me into a pace  ;D Said goodbye to her at New Cross and wished her a safe journey. That was fun  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 17 January, 2012, 10:50:09 pm
Coming down the New Kent Road the cyclist in front of me was nearly taken out by a dozy lady coming out of a petrol station without looking. Having braked and been given "the look" by said cyclist, she then attempted to change lanes to avoid going into the back of a parked car, only to observe at the last moment that the adjacent lane was occupied by yours truly. 

She had two young kids in the back and a mobile phone glued to her ear.  Let's say I gave her more than a glare - I hope the person on the other end of the 'phone was not easily offended.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 17 January, 2012, 11:25:57 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 17 January, 2012, 10:35:57 pm
Working late tonight til 8p.m. and its a quiet ride home. Just after Albert Bridge on the Embankment this cyclist kept behind me as I sucked up the wind but she kindly passed me and she looked like a very fit individual. As I got to the right turn onto Vauxhall Bridge I pulled into the ASL and ahead of her as she had snuck behind a van. I kept ahead of her for the next 8 miles and (apart from our rant about cycling couples, in which the male almost never wait for their female companion) we stayed together, but by gosh she pushed me into a pace  ;D Said goodbye to her at New Cross and wished her a safe journey. That was fun  :thumbsup:

Where do I order a fit girly for a TTT on my commute?

The interwebs has many suggestions for a 'riding companion', but none of them had their own bicycle...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 18 January, 2012, 12:11:40 am
Oncoming motorist.
You had two options.

Option 1.  Move slightly to the left of your lane. Not complicated and quite simply achieved.

Option 2.  Flash headlights, hold fist on horn, gurn, shout something that no-one could hear, make wanker sign.  Very complicated and probably quite stressful for you.


You chose option two.  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 18 January, 2012, 06:44:23 am
Saw two very healthy foxes as I was leaving Swindon last night on the way home.  Both near Wanborough.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 18 January, 2012, 08:57:19 am
'Sometimes you're the hammer,sometimes the nail'

Lovely ride yesterday with the final miles in tandem with a work colleague I've never met riding his lovely custom green Hewitt Cheviot (dropouts a matt silver to match the racks). Today, there was a close overtake by a bus, a ped. walking in the cycle lane and the cyclist in front of me believing a car was about to pull out from the left stopped and I went into the back of them and ended up in the road  >:( My fault as I should have kept my guard up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 18 January, 2012, 09:11:42 am
At least it is a lot warmer, bit damp though. Nice blast through Richmond park to Kingston this morning. Lovely.

I hope my girlfriend doesn't regret having ridden in on her sit up an beg bike with a dress on instead of road bike with proper waterproofs on. Hope she missed the rain!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 18 January, 2012, 09:38:45 am
Earlier than normal commute today due to dentist visit so saw more cars and more cyclists than normal. Had a chat with one of the cyclists about ice, studded tyres, etc.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 18 January, 2012, 09:55:43 am
There's a set of roadworks running in Hampton at the moment with temporary traffic lights controlling alternate line working. It had been well flagged (even before Christmas I think) so I had put the surprising lack of jams down to the fact that people were finding different routes.

Not this morning.

The back of the jam was at the west side of Kingston Bridge, all the way through to Hampton Court, and then all the way along to Hampton.

That's got to be over a million pound's worth of vehicles I swooped past this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 January, 2012, 10:23:01 am
Never thought of quantifying it like that :thumbsup:

I had a great commute this morning.  Just flowed.

Apparently, it rained somewhere.  I don't remember that bit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 18 January, 2012, 10:42:37 am
Nice cool ride home last night with no numpty drivers or riders to contend with. Schweet.

Damp ride in thsi morning. I think the numpties are avoiding me  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 18 January, 2012, 10:58:27 am
No bike today - had to drive my wife somewhere first thing this morning, so left car at station. Damn, I miss it, even when it's raining!  :'(

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 18 January, 2012, 12:22:10 pm
Too hot this morning, dressed for the cold & it was quite mild.  Had a numpty woman pull out on me in Kingsbury  :demon:  I had a feeling that she would for some reason & managed to avoid her, the traffic was quite busy & there was a small gap, the 1st car pulled out & she raced to squeeze into the gap as well.  I had anticipated she would so I moved further out into the road & ended up by the side of her in the middle of the road (she turned left & I carried on moving further & further towards the middle of the road eventually pulling up by the side of her, I had no chance of stopping in time).  Gave her the look & pulled off in front of her, she gave me a nice wide berth when she overtook me  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: keeks on 18 January, 2012, 01:29:23 pm
First commute for a wee while and using the flat but roundabout / t junction invested way. So nearly got hit on a roundabout whilst wearing hi-viz displaying two lights  ::-)  At least the driver acknowledged his fault , so maybe he'll be more vigilent here on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 18 January, 2012, 01:33:51 pm
Had to apologise to to a Merc driver this morning for nearly ripping his mirror off after  I nearly lost the front on diesel while filtering, usually this sort of thing is quite deliberate, had a fairy visit in the car park which turned out to be a massive screw, bleedin builders downstairs  ::-)

Very nice ride in really, appreciated the extra few degrees of warmth, felt fast after taking the studs off last night to run the city jets  :thumbsup:

Saw one cyclist who had so many lights on I wondered WTF was coming towards me, I counted EIGHT forward and 5 rear, thought it was close encounters at first
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: corshamjim on 18 January, 2012, 06:55:57 pm
I must learn not to make unconventional hand-signals at drivers who annoy me.   ::-)  Thankfully I had an opportunity to wave nicely at a couple of drivers who waited patiently for me later, so karma restored.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 January, 2012, 07:45:46 pm
First (and probably last) puncture of the year.  No cause discerned, but I think that tyre (rear, natch ::-) ) is a bit worn.  I was expecting to be on CX by now. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: phantasmagoriana on 18 January, 2012, 08:20:50 pm
My front wheel's QR skewer snapped on the way home. :hand:

It was only a mile or so to walk home, but a mile holding the front wheel in one hand (as it wouldn't stay in the dropouts and kept catching the mudguard when I tried to wheel it along in situ) and wheeling/lifting the front of the (heavy, steel, panniered) bike along with the other was particularly exhausting.

The offending bike will now be thrown in the shed until the new skewer arrives. >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 18 January, 2012, 09:27:07 pm
I've got a spare set of QRs knocking about somewhere from when I swapped 'em for security skewers if that would help?
Title: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 18 January, 2012, 09:27:44 pm
Saw a bike being hit by a car in the way home today. Well I heard it and saw it from the point where the bike was flying through the air.
A 20-something be-hoodied unlit BSO rider with the face of a skag addict had decided that a red light at a crossroads (crossing a more major road) didnt apply to him. The car driver was travelling at a reasonable speed straight through on green. How the rider was not killed, I do not know.
I immediately went to the scene to offer assistance, but as the rider was up and walking (well- leaning against a bollard clutching what will probably be a broken rib, or massively painful bruising to the chest) and the rider and his mate were apologising to the driver, who also seemed to be in good spirits, and asking about damage to the car, I decided that my presence was not required.
I think the lucky BSO rider may have learned a valuable and painful lesson.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 January, 2012, 10:01:16 pm
Eek.  Not nice to see, even if it couldn't have been worse.

I forgot: I saw a Nihola mixing it with the other cyclists at Newington Butts this morning :thumbsup:

And what a cohort of cyclists!  I've never seen so many in January :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 18 January, 2012, 10:02:14 pm
After a few days of somewhat brisker weather, this years very mild conditions have returned.

It was just about necessary to wear some thin gloves, but I've gone back to just cycling in fingerless mitts, otherwise my hands end up getting too hot and sweaty (ooer missus).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: phantasmagoriana on 18 January, 2012, 10:21:01 pm
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 18 January, 2012, 09:27:07 pm
I've got a spare set of QRs knocking about somewhere from when I swapped 'em for security skewers if that would help?

Thanks for the offer - in a rare spate of efficiency I bought one online as soon as I got back, so think I should be sorted.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 19 January, 2012, 09:49:52 am
Despite a mild start ( 2 degrees at Lowe Towers ), it was astually a very icy ride in.
I was spinning out on all the steep sections, and the descent was treacherous.
Summit had a light dusting of snow, which concealed the ice beneath!
Coupla crap phone-cam photos of a bike onna hill with snow, around 30 mins before sunrise:

(http://www.lowe-family.me.uk/photos/cairn1.jpg)

(http://www.lowe-family.me.uk/photos/cairn2.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 19 January, 2012, 10:20:17 am
I am so envious.

On Tues I checked the forecast - black ice on A64 and Leeds & -2. So I left the luggage and lights on the crisp-muncher. Got up late to discover it was now +6C and not even damp. Too late to switch bikes I thought. Struggled into work, battling to maintain 14mph on the flat! One of those rides where you are certain you have a flat tyre or a brake rubbing.
Flew home. Cruising at 18mph. Go figure.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 January, 2012, 10:30:12 am
You know that water the utility companies were waiting for?

I think it's just been delivered. 

That was a very wet commute, but I was OK.  The water broke through my shoes & socks at Tooting (just about the time my bike computer gave out), so it was just spongy from there.  They're now sat atop the boiler upstairs ;D

Standing water at Clapham Common, Stockwell, Oval, Kennington, Elephant & Castle, New Kent Road...

I watched a fixed rider on a Gios or a Ciocc (I couldn't quite see) clip out to run through a puddle at Balham.  I didn't see the point by then, but maybe his feet were still dry enough.  Funny, nonetheless, and it put me in mind of Phil on the FYBO, who clipped out for flooded sections of road, except when it was dark, and he couldn't see ahead, when we heard him yelping as his feet went underwater ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Access Legal Guy on 19 January, 2012, 10:42:20 am
Slight breeze made what was in fact drizzle feel like driving rain! - bring back the sub zero temperatures and low bright sun!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 19 January, 2012, 10:55:54 am
Quote from: Access Legal Guy on 19 January, 2012, 10:42:20 am
Slight breeze made what was in fact drizzle feel like driving rain! - bring back the sub zero temperatures and low bright sun!
Nooo, I don't think so.  I'd happily take the dry with howling gale*, followed by light breeze with downpour and consequent drenching that I had this morning over sub-zero and dry any day of the week.  Some of us only has the one cranky old grid and mine is not suitable for icy conditions.

*Slight overstatement, but not an awful lot.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 19 January, 2012, 10:58:55 am
Quote from: clarion on 19 January, 2012, 10:30:12 am
You know that water the utility companies were waiting for?

I think it's just been delivered. 

Not yet they want that to continue for the next 6 weeks in the South East and East Anglia.  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 19 January, 2012, 12:35:25 pm
Alarm was on silent so overslept & ended up just cycling the mile to a work colleagues home for a lift in  :facepalm:

Will do some miles tonight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 19 January, 2012, 12:46:16 pm
I decided the rain wasn't heavy enough to warrant bothering getting the Rainlegs out for the short ride between Victoria and the office this morning.

By the time I realised I was mistaken, I was too wet for it to make a difference, so carried on regardless.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 19 January, 2012, 01:07:53 pm
Yes, it was a little wet, wasn’t it. I was glad of the hairdryer my work provides in one of the ladies for once, lest I had to go to a morning meeting with dripping hair.

I had waterproof shoe/boot covers which cover my shins, and the big waterproof poncho, but still got very wet knees despite the fact that they were technically underneath the poncho (which was draped over my handlebars – fantastic for keeping your hands dry). Stupid sideways rain must have snuck in…or perhaps spray from other vehicles.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 19 January, 2012, 01:17:15 pm
Yup. I got caught in quite a heavy shower. Everything damp. Stuff now sitting on the ventilation grid by my desk, but I think I am heading for a soggy ride home. Still beats being in a car in (yet another) jam. The Hampton road works are scheduled to last 12 weeks. That's a huge incentive to stay on the bike for the Winter.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 19 January, 2012, 01:46:12 pm
a 20cm commute on the Bike this morning before realising rear tyre was flat... (first of the winter). Meeting at 8am (what is management thinking?) means quickly change clothes and walk to the tube station.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 19 January, 2012, 05:28:26 pm
don't know why, given that some of my stuff is still damp from this morning, but I am enormously looking forward to my ride home tonight.

No reason, just am
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 19 January, 2012, 05:40:15 pm
I'm lucky enough to have a big radiator next to my desk at work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: phantasmagoriana on 19 January, 2012, 06:40:43 pm
Naturally, as I had to use the mudguardless road bike today following yesterday's mechanical on the hybrid, it rained quite heavily. It started as soon as I left the house, and stopped just as I arrived at work. ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 19 January, 2012, 06:46:47 pm
It's nice to know that you are being noticed though?  Even if it is just by the weather.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 19 January, 2012, 07:19:47 pm
Rotten trip home this evening...
The back is playing up so slower than usual.
1/3 way into trip it starts sleeting. Windy and cold.
Arrive home with a bruise on the forhead and chin, a very swollen nose and sans specs. No idea what happened nor when or where it happened. Bike seems OK. No torn clothing. Helmet untouched.
Cannot remember last 1/2 of the journey.  :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 19 January, 2012, 07:21:05 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 19 January, 2012, 06:46:47 pm
It's nice to know that you are being noticed though?  Even if it is just by the weather.

By that logic, I'm suspicious that I may have a stalker  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 19 January, 2012, 07:21:41 pm
Quote from: pdm on 19 January, 2012, 07:19:47 pm
Rotten trip home this evening...
The back is playing up so slower than usual.
1/3 way into trip it starts sleeting. Windy and cold.
Arrive home with a bruise on the forhead and chin, a very swollen nose and sans specs. No idea what happened nor when or where it happened. Bike seems OK. No torn clothing. Helmet untouched.
Cannot remember last 1/2 of the journey.  :P
Bloody hell.

You should go and see a doctor. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 19 January, 2012, 07:22:26 pm
Quote from: hatler on 19 January, 2012, 07:21:41 pm
Quote from: pdm on 19 January, 2012, 07:19:47 pm
Rotten trip home this evening...
The back is playing up so slower than usual.
1/3 way into trip it starts sleeting. Windy and cold.
Arrive home with a bruise on the forhead and chin, a very swollen nose and sans specs. No idea what happened nor when or where it happened. Bike seems OK. No torn clothing. Helmet untouched.
Cannot remember last 1/2 of the journey.  :P
Bloody hell.

You should go and see a doctor.

A&E sharpish.
Really.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 January, 2012, 07:25:01 pm
Flippin eck, pdm!  +1 to Jurek's suggestion asap.

Get someone to go with you if you possibly can.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 January, 2012, 07:33:08 pm
btw, this was the more benign surprise from my commute:

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v326/ado15/IMAG0182.jpg)

I think that'd be more than 200rpm*. :-\

No, I haven't been on a train.





* and more than 30kph faster than I've ever ridden on fixed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Juan Martín on 19 January, 2012, 07:33:28 pm
Agree with this, get to A&E as soon as you can and get yourself checked over. Let us know how you get on pdm.
Good Luck!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 19 January, 2012, 07:34:09 pm
Get yourself to a&e

Anyone have pdm's mobile and can check up on him?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Juan Martín on 19 January, 2012, 07:34:36 pm
You've probably been abducted by aliens. It's the only explanation.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: welshwheels on 19 January, 2012, 07:39:19 pm
Quote from: pdm on 19 January, 2012, 07:19:47 pm
Rotten trip home this evening...
The back is playing up so slower than usual.
1/3 way into trip it starts sleeting. Windy and cold.
Arrive home with a bruise on the forhead and chin, a very swollen nose and sans specs. No idea what happened nor when or where it happened. Bike seems OK. No torn clothing. Helmet untouched.
Cannot remember last 1/2 of the journey.  :P
   get to A +E  annd get checked out  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: welshwheels on 19 January, 2012, 07:43:15 pm
Quote from: clarion on 19 January, 2012, 07:33:08 pm
btw, this was the more benign surprise from my commute:

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v326/ado15/IMAG0182.jpg)

I think that'd be more than 200rpm*. :-\

No, I haven't been on a train.

GO CLARION !!!you need to teach me how to spin !!lol 8)



* and more than 30kph faster than I've ever ridden on fixed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 January, 2012, 07:44:10 pm
If only it were true... :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: welshwheels on 19 January, 2012, 07:47:39 pm
I once clocked 89 mph when i fitted a new wireless computer and magnet  forgot to take the old magnet off :facepalm: 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 January, 2012, 07:48:37 pm
Cool. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 19 January, 2012, 07:51:52 pm
Quote from: pdm on 19 January, 2012, 07:19:47 pm
Arrive home with a bruise on the forhead and chin, a very swollen nose and sans specs. No idea what happened nor when or where it happened

Bloody hell indeed.

Get yourself taken to A&E and avoid being on your own. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 19 January, 2012, 08:01:19 pm
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 19 January, 2012, 07:51:52 pm
Quote from: pdm on 19 January, 2012, 07:19:47 pm
Arrive home with a bruise on the forhead and chin, a very swollen nose and sans specs. No idea what happened nor when or where it happened

Bloody hell indeed.

Get yourself taken to A&E and avoid being on your own.

+1

Remember, professionals lose their objectivity when they are involved 'on the other side'.

GWS!

DO NOT WORK TOMORROW!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 19 January, 2012, 08:53:30 pm
Eeps hope you're OK pdm. Are you missing any time you can't account for on the journey? You might have blacked out for a bit  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 19 January, 2012, 09:30:31 pm
Pieter, you're showing as being online seven minutes ago.
If you really cannot remember the last half of your ride, you should be in A&E.
Srsly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 19 January, 2012, 09:34:29 pm
GWS pdm, secondeded the A&E recommendations.

Not today but yesterday I very nearly got knocked off by a van and then by my evasion.

Along the unlit lanes I went over a narrow bridge round a bend. And on the straight afterwards was a big van barreling towards me with no sign of slowing (or turning his high beam off), dodged left whilst trying to avoid verge and caught out the corner of my eye (and vaguely remembered being there) a large mass of brambles sticking at face height out of the hedge  :o

Managed to keep bike left whilst ducking upper half of me down and right, brambles skimmed my shoulder but didn't snag. So glad it didn't hit me in the face (apart from not wanted to be cut/fall off) as my glasses aren't very big and could easily have been got in the eye(s)  :sick:

Got the heartrate up just a tad.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 19 January, 2012, 09:59:05 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 19 January, 2012, 09:30:31 pm
Pieter, you're showing as being online seven minutes ago.
If you really cannot remember the last half of your ride, you should be in A&E.
Srsly.
Definitely. Not wanting to alarm you, but a similar thing happened to me about two years ago. I wanted to just go to bed, but a little while later Mrs Cudzo made me go to A&E. When we got there, doc said to her that they had to operate or I could be dead in 20 minutes!  :o I'm still alive. Now go to hospital, right now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 January, 2012, 10:04:12 pm
I don't have a contact for Pieter.  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 19 January, 2012, 10:13:13 pm
He went offline at 9:36 according to his profile, otherwise maybe someone could send him a PM. Hopefully he's gone to hospital (and hopefully it's nothing serious and he'll tell us all how stupid we were to ruin his evening).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 19 January, 2012, 10:14:02 pm
let's hope so.  I've just managed to find his address but no phone number
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 20 January, 2012, 07:36:16 am
Thanks for all the concern, folks, but I am OK.
I have a nice shiner on the right and the nose and chin are even more swolllen but otherwise fine and not painful. The injuries are all superficial and cosmetic.
Still have no memory of what actually happened - just a vaque impression of standing in an empty street with no clue of which way to go and then nothing more until I got home.
My good wife looked after me pretty well after that. We did discuss going to sit in casualty for 4 hours to be sent home again but decided against - we have head injury instructions and all has turned out OK.
No headache or other symptoms.
Not going into work today. Back too painful (though not as a result of last night's episode - it may have been part of the cause!)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bloomers100 on 20 January, 2012, 07:42:06 am
First commute on the fixed Steamroller aquired from Fraz of this parish. 2 km/h hour faster than normal although no luggage and despite a significant headwind. I'm confused. Anyhow adds a new dimension to my dark lonely early morning world.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Juan Martín on 20 January, 2012, 08:27:13 am
Glad to hear you are OK pdm.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 20 January, 2012, 08:33:41 am
Quote from: bloomers100 on 20 January, 2012, 07:42:06 am
First commute on the fixed Steamroller aquired from Fraz of this parish. 2 km/h hour faster than normal although no luggage and despite a significant headwind. I'm confused. Anyhow adds a new dimension to my dark lonely early morning world.

Confused as to why it is faster? 
Gears / freewheels enable you to relax and stop adding to the forward momentum.
Fixed does not.
What I am playing about with now is climbing at speed.  I stay seated for as long as practical and when my ground speed reaches a certain point I stand up and basically stair climb.  Rather than concentrating on pushing down I shift the weight and concentration on pulling up.
When I fill my legs with the beginnings of lactate it actually helps going down the other side of the hill at speed  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oaky on 20 January, 2012, 08:42:46 am
Quote from: bloomers100 on 20 January, 2012, 07:42:06 am
First commute on the fixed Steamroller aquired from Fraz of this parish. 2 km/h hour faster than normal although no luggage and despite a significant headwind. I'm confused. Anyhow adds a new dimension to my dark lonely early morning world.

It could be the lack of luggage - panniers are fairly effective airbrakes.  OTOH it could be that you're less inclined to relax on the flat on fixed, since there's no lower gear to click down to to accelerate back up to speed, so it feels "easier" to put in the effort to keep rolling on at a constant speed now, than it woudl be to slow down now and speed up later?  Certainly I get that feeling on mine (for this reason, i sometimes call it my "single-speed" bike even though it's fixed - on the flat it only seems to want to go at a single speed: 18mph).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 20 January, 2012, 09:04:29 am
New bike effect, bloomers.


PDM, glad to hear you are ok, but do be careful for a bit. Head injuries are (un)funny things and the effects can creep up on you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 20 January, 2012, 09:05:06 am
I managed to get home OK last night, without the drive train self destructing any more (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=1241.msg1142819#msg1142819), but I'm a bit buggered for cycling into work today.

I could use Red or the snow bike, but neither had a mudguard, and Red doesn't have much in the way of luggage capacity.

I'm afraid this probably means cheating and using the Tram and Tube. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 20 January, 2012, 09:57:01 am
Sounds like the Tram / Tube will give you the rest you need to do fettling in the cold light of day ( tomorrow or Sunday ) when rested.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 20 January, 2012, 11:35:27 am
Glad you're ok pdm, take it easy.

Last night's ride was truly awful, muppets , wind, homicidal cement truck driver who for the third time this year had tried to make me his latest victim, wind, rain and more wind.

Woke up this am and was dreading riding in, listening to the weather but what's this? A tailwind?  :thumbsup:. Really enjoyed that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 20 January, 2012, 12:43:31 pm
Sorry to here of your injury PDM.

I am missing my normal commute. When it rains I have to use the train to avoid getting the dressing and my persistent remaining injury wet.  So I have a short ride from my house to my local station.  Then a couple of miles from Bridgend station to the Coychurch side of the Bridgend Industrial estate. Normally I to put up with 3+1(temporary) traffic lights.  On my much reduced route I might have to stop at six.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 20 January, 2012, 10:36:16 pm
Not a good journey tonight.

First I came the closest I ever have to being taken out. Muppet came onto the roundabout as I was going past. By the time I realised they were not stopping, I was already in front of them. I was supposed to be taking the exit, but was forced to turn back away from them shouting "woah" * loudly* as I went. Fortunately they either heard me, or deigned to look in the correct direction before rolling over me, and managed to stop (I was on the trike).

Then halfway home a flat tyre. Odd one this, coudn't find anything in the tyre or any hole in the tube (although it was very dark, and I was holding a bike light in my mouth.  ::-). Gotta get a head light.

Oh yes, and those little knurled nut things that go at the base of the valve (schrader) to hold it against the rim. If you use them, take them off all  your wheels. They are tightened finger tight when the tyre is at pressure. Trouble is, when deflated, there is no pressure pushing the valve through the hole, and they *tighten*. I spent ten minutes trying to get this undone.

Arrived home half an hour later than expected.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 20 January, 2012, 10:47:49 pm
Quote from: tonycollinet on 20 January, 2012, 10:36:16 pm
(although it was very dark, and I was holding a bike light in my mouth.  ::-). Gotta get a head light.



this

http://www.alpkit.com/gamma

is your friend
 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 20 January, 2012, 11:14:33 pm
Quote from: tonycollinet on 20 January, 2012, 10:36:16 pm
Oh yes, and those little knurled nut things that go at the base of the valve (schrader) to hold it against the rim. If you use them, take them off all  your wheels. They are tightened finger tight when the tyre is at pressure. Trouble is, when deflated, there is no pressure pushing the valve through the hole, and they *tighten*. I spent ten minutes trying to get this undone.

Arrived home half an hour later than expected.
Mr Simon of FNRTTC has a particular loathing of those things. He was fit to burst when someone punctured on a ride and the nut was corroded onto the rim.

Fortunately, I had a multitool with pliers. I thought he was going to have an aneurysm.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 20 January, 2012, 11:19:58 pm
I once had an unbudgeable lock ring on a presta in the latter stages of the IOW randonee.  Judicious use of the can opener attachment on my SAK as a kind of C spanner saved the day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 20 January, 2012, 11:22:19 pm
So they're officially more trouble than they're worth, then?  Good to know, given that when they're not getting stuck they're falling off...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 21 January, 2012, 01:37:19 am
What a drag of a journey home after a long week.  At least I spent the evening with a lovely elderly couple that were the victim of a burglary.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 January, 2012, 06:16:07 am
Lockrings do prevent a lot of punctures.  You know, if Simon wanted something to rant about for holding up rides, it isn't Lockrings or racks or panniers, or even mudguards - it's people who put paper thin tyres on their bikes.  That's what's caused most of the delays on the rides I've been on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 21 January, 2012, 07:54:29 am
I'm with Simon, lockrings cause plenty of problems, and I don't understand how they prevent anything.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 January, 2012, 09:07:09 am
Slippage and chafing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Frere on 21 January, 2012, 09:19:30 am
We've had this discussion before :)

http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=50971.msg1026435#msg1026435

Frere
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 21 January, 2012, 11:21:18 am
I've never had a problem with the lockrings.  I thought they prevented the valve extension from rattling on the side of the rim hole?
I have more of a problem with the locking bit at the top of the presta valve.  Sometimes they are really hard to budge.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 21 January, 2012, 11:39:58 am
Quote from: Wendy on 21 January, 2012, 07:54:29 am
I'm with Simon, lockrings cause plenty of problems, and I don't understand how they prevent anything.

I agree, having had them corrode onto the thread of my inner tube valve. I don't usualy bother with them and that has never caused me any problems. Saves a bit of weight too... :smug:

In fact, I sometimes use a presta valve in my Schreider drilled rims on my mountain bike.

Quote from: clarion on 21 January, 2012, 06:16:07 am
- it's people who put paper thin tyres on their bikes.  That's what's caused most of the delays on the rides I've been on.

Maybe so, but Mr Legbandage does ride a Colnago with rather thin tyres on these rides.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 21 January, 2012, 11:47:17 am
The lockrings that came with my latest batch of tubes have a 'stepped' profile, and the step is the right size to fit into a schrader-valve-sized hole, so it can be used to centralise the valve in the over-sized hole.

ETA: They were Continental Race 28 700 x 18-25 42mm presta:

http://www.wiggle.co.uk/continental-quality-road-pack-of-5-inner-tubes/
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 21 January, 2012, 11:51:43 am
Sneaky. And you're not telling anyone which ones they are.
I see... ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 21 January, 2012, 01:11:54 pm
Quote from: clarion on 21 January, 2012, 06:16:07 am
Lockrings do prevent a lot of punctures.  You know, if Simon wanted something to rant about for holding up rides, it isn't Lockrings or racks or panniers, or even mudguards - it's people who put paper thin tyres on their bikes.  That's what's caused most of the delays on the rides I've been on.

I think I'd concur with that, though I'm sure TimO will be along shortly with an expert opinion.

Of course, the paper thin tyres brigade do tend to be reasonably competent at fixing punctures, especially if someone is on hand to lend them a proper pump.

Spoke issues with lightweight wheels seem to be a feature too, but probably no more than the usual spattering of impossible-to-predict failures of chains, cables, valves, etc. on otherwise reliable bikes.  I reckon lighting issues are fairly common too, but they're easily resolved without holding up the group.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 21 January, 2012, 08:57:06 pm
On the bus today, and some plonker, passenger in a car next to us, was shining a green laser in my son's eyes on the approach to HPC. I thought I got the rego, but I failed.  Quite annoyed with that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 22 January, 2012, 01:54:16 pm
Quote from: GruB on 20 January, 2012, 09:57:01 am
Sounds like the Tram / Tube will give you the rest you need to do fettling in the cold light of day ( tomorrow or Sunday ) when rested.  :thumbsup:

This is serious fettling, it include minor details like fitting (and for that matter purchasing) a headset, working out how the Versa levers work, likewise with the Alfine hub fitting kit, and building up two wheels.  It's going to take several days, and I needed yesterday to recover from the preceding week!


I've just commuted in, to finish some work, so I can take Monday to Friday off, and I'd forgotten what a Sunday commute was like.  The people who drive on the roads at weekends in central(ish) London, make your average weekday commuter look like a paragon of intelligence and well thought out driving.

Actually, it's not that their ill mannered, but most of them don't seem to have a clue where they're going, or how to drive a car.

There were a spectacular number of badly, and simply illegally parked vehicles out there.  A traffic warden working on a Sunday must have a really easy job, there were any number of cars parked in places they shouldn't.  I suspect a lot of them are either following the "I've done it for the last n days/week/years", or possibly just following the lead of the first person who decided to park there.  I did see a couple of traffic wardens civil enforcement officers out and about, so I'd bet a few of those cars are going to find yellow and black stickers on their windscreens.

As a cyclist though, it was just the people who drifted into cycle lanes, didn't bother with indicators, clearly didn't know where they were going by the way they were slowly driving along and stopping at every junction to think about it, and so forth.  Infuriating more than dangerous mostly.

Since I was using Red I was even more careful than usual.  It kind of defeats cycling a Carbon Fibre bicycle, when my average speed in was a rather "Meh",14.5mph, which is about normal, and my peak was 21.5mph, which is below normal (typically it's around 23mph).


I'm not sure I've got a strong opinion on valve lockrings, I can't say I've ever had any problems either way with them. I tend to use them just in case the tyre creeps and the chaffing damages it, but I can't say I've ever had a problem with removing a tyre, and I've virtually always got a Leatherman with me, should I need to remove an intransigent one.


As regards lightweight tyres, inevitably on a light bike, people want tyres as light as possible, and this does conflict with the requirement for as puncture proof as possible.  On Red I've got compromise tyres which are reasonably puncture proof, but aren't exactly Marathon Plus like in terms of weight and rolling resistance.

On my commuters, I tend to use either Marathon Supremes or Marathon Pluses.  The Supremes are almost as puncture resistance as a Plus, but roll more easily.  They are rather more expensive however, and harder to get in narrower sizes.  The Supremes are also a bit of a compromise, I'd possibly use Pluses everywhere if they weren't so heavy (and had a folding bead).

I do tend to carry at least two inner tubes, a pump, a VAR lever, a puncture repair kit, a boot, and several CO2 cartridges though, so I'm not exactly unprepared should I need to do multiple repairs (I've also been known to carry a spare folding tyre, and several more inner tubes, including Schradar valved ones, and 26", on some rides!)

People who use <Mr Creosote>wafer thin</Mr Creosote> tyres need to be responsible for them, so should have the bits to do a replacement as necessary, reasonably fast, on a group ride.


Spoke failures on a group ride are rare, I can only think of two instances on a FNRttC.  One had Fulcrum wheels (like I've got on Red funnily enough), which were trivially easy to retrue, compensating for the missing spoke, and the other cyclist abandoned (just prior to Reigate Hill), before I found out that there was a problem, because I had an emergency Kevlar spoke on me, which could possibly have helped.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 23 January, 2012, 08:15:50 am
Quote from: jogler on 20 January, 2012, 10:47:49 pm
Quote from: tonycollinet on 20 January, 2012, 10:36:16 pm
(although it was very dark, and I was holding a bike light in my mouth.  ::-). Gotta get a head light.



this

http://www.alpkit.com/gamma

is your friend
 :thumbsup:

I am another who bought one of those at York. Excellent kit, using it for the commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 23 January, 2012, 08:24:36 am
I capitulated at the weekend and fitted new drivetrain bits to the road bike, what a difference that makes. Much faster than the MTB now that it's not slipping every time I start off.

Lockrings are an essential bit of kit for a whole host of uses that they are not intended for eg replacing the made of cheese positioning spacers on avid juicy 3's. I won't comment on tyres - that's just tempting fate.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 23 January, 2012, 08:39:19 am
First chance at 'pooter input since Friday afternoon.

I usualy leave the bike at work over the weekend and drive home Friday evening.

I decided that this weekend was G G G G Granvilles weekend for a bit of TLC so rode home.

Big mistake.

Descending Quarry Wood Lane from Winter Hill towards Marlow. Negotiating the hairpin and was just at the apex when the front wheel went out from underneath me, dumping me onto shellgrip at about 18 MPH. I don't know if I hit something like a stone or touched a patch of oil, the wheel just went. By the time I had finished sliding, I found myself in the middle of the exit of a blind bend with car lights approaching. Cue panic to drag me and G G G G Granville out of the way. I managed this and then relaised that bits of me hurt. Some of them a lot. I had come down on my right knee, elbow and shoulder.

Shellgrip is a bit abrasive so I am currently very sore and scuffed of elbow and knee. I have a bit of whiplash. The worst is my upper arm. Every time I reach for something, I get varying degrees of stabbing pain through the top of my upper arm. My shoulder has red impact/ abrasion marks.

My Karrimor Bike trousers are punctured at the right knee. My Altura Windstream jacket has some of the windproofing abraded off at the shoulder. My helmet has a scuff, as does my helmet mounted JoyStick.

G G G G Granville has a scuffed and displaced right brake/ shifter lever, a very scuffed pedal and the rack has some nice grazes. It looks like my Carradice Barley got away with it (probably due to the frame pump which fell off earlier and got shoved in the bag through the flap acting as a slider.

Three cars and their occupants stopped to make sure I was OK.

There are currently some nice slide out scratches on the exit to the bend.

SWMBO gave me a lift to work.

Arm hurts like a bastard whe I reach for my desk mounted mug of tea.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 23 January, 2012, 09:01:41 am
Quote from: TimO on 22 January, 2012, 01:54:16 pm
Quote from: GruB on 20 January, 2012, 09:57:01 am
Sounds like the Tram / Tube will give you the rest you need to do fettling in the cold light of day ( tomorrow or Sunday ) when rested.  :thumbsup:

This is serious fettling, it include minor details like fitting (and for that matter purchasing) a headset, working out how the Versa levers work, likewise with the Alfine hub fitting kit, and building up two wheels.  It's going to take several days, and I needed yesterday to recover from the preceding week!


Let me know if you suceed with the Versa levers, I've sent mine back because after hours of struggling I couldn't get the gear cable in and sent them back. Rest of Alfine fitting is fairly straightforward, apart from the "spring of doom" but once you fit that you'll wonder why it was such a struggle.

 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 January, 2012, 09:09:58 am
Blimey, fuzzy!  Glad you're still with us.  GWS.

btw, what's shellgrip?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 23 January, 2012, 09:22:18 am
Quote from: fuzzy on 23 January, 2012, 08:39:19 am
First chance at 'pooter input since Friday afternoon.

I usualy leave the bike at work over the weekend and drive home Friday evening.

I decided that this weekend was G G G G Granvilles weekend for a bit of TLC so rode home.

Big mistake.

Descending Quarry Wood Lane from Winter Hill towards Marlow. Negotiating the hairpin and was just at the apex when the front wheel went out from underneath me, dumping me onto shellgrip at about 18 MPH. I don't know if I hit something like a stone or touched a patch of oil, the wheel just went. By the time I had finished sliding, I found myself in the middle of the exit of a blind bend with car lights approaching. Cue panic to drag me and G G G G Granville out of the way. I managed this and then relaised that bits of me hurt. Some of them a lot. I had come down on my right knee, elbow and shoulder.

Shellgrip is a bit abrasive so I am currently very sore and scuffed of elbow and knee. I have a bit of whiplash. The worst is my upper arm. Every time I reach for something, I get varying degrees of stabbing pain through the top of my upper arm. My shoulder has red impact/ abrasion marks.

My Karrimor Bike trousers are punctured at the right knee. My Altura Windstream jacket has some of the windproofing abraded off at the shoulder. My helmet has a scuff, as does my helmet mounted JoyStick.

G G G G Granville has a scuffed and displaced right brake/ shifter lever, a very scuffed pedal and the rack has some nice grazes. It looks like my Carradice Barley got away with it (probably due to the frame pump which fell off earlier and got shoved in the bag through the flap acting as a slider.

Three cars and their occupants stopped to make sure I was OK.

There are currently some nice slide out scratches on the exit to the bend.

SWMBO gave me a lift to work.

Arm hurts like a bastard whe I reach for my desk mounted mug of tea.

Ouff!  That sounds really hurty  :(

There's so much diesel on the roads at the moment, we need some proper rain to clean it off.

Glad it wasn't worse fuzzy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 23 January, 2012, 09:32:02 am
Quote from: clarion on 23 January, 2012, 09:09:58 am
Blimey, fuzzy!  Glad you're still with us.  GWS.

btw, what's shellgrip?

That coloured, high grip, surface dressing.

Fuzzy, washing out a front wheel like that is nasty. Sorry but I had to laugh at your "desk mounted mug of tea"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 23 January, 2012, 09:36:31 am
Sounds like a nasty prang fuzzy. Not a lot one can do once a front wheel makes a bid for freedom.

Heal well and quickly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 23 January, 2012, 09:38:50 am
Quote from: matthew on 23 January, 2012, 09:32:02 am
Quote from: clarion on 23 January, 2012, 09:09:58 am
Blimey, fuzzy!  Glad you're still with us.  GWS.

btw, what's shellgrip?

That coloured, high grip, surface dressing.

Fuzzy, washing out a front wheel like that is nasty. Sorry but I had to laugh at your "desk mounted mug of tea"

That's the stuff. The sand coloured high grip dressing they put down at the approaches to traffic lights, ped crossings etc.

Makes for great abrasion ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 January, 2012, 09:40:20 am
Naaaasty!

Take care of yourself.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 23 January, 2012, 11:06:44 am
B0ll0cks, Fuzzy. Hope you heal up completely and quickly.

p.s. it's painful and scary to fall off those tall bikes!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 23 January, 2012, 11:12:44 am
Ah, the pain, Fuzzy. Front wheel wipeouts are scary - no warning.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 23 January, 2012, 11:32:16 am
Not on a commute exactly, but the school run, and we do it on foot, but nevertheless it involves cycles: Firstly we saw the unicycler again. He's a teenager who evidently unicycles to school, we see him going down this hill (http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?q=horfield+rd+bristol&ll=51.457844,-2.598202&spn=0.0073,0.021136&client=opera&oe=utf-8&channel=suggest&hnear=Horfield+Rd,+Bristol,+United+Kingdom&t=h&z=16&vpsrc=0&layer=c&cbll=51.457951,-2.598212&panoid=bhs0PxxhoBPgTEv-xjf2sg&cbp=12,160.56,,0,0) and we only ever see him if we're a bit late! Then, crossing the next road, a steeper hill, where we have to cross between waiting traffic on our side then wait in the middle for a gap, I totally failed to see a cyclist! My fault entirely.  :-[ Nothing happened, cos she was labouring slowly up the steep hill and we were far enough in front not to even slow her down, but it shows how easy it is to look but not see someone who's very near the kerb, cos you're looking where the cars are. And she was wearing hi-viz - take that how you will.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 23 January, 2012, 11:46:24 am
Unlucky, Fuzzy - sounds painful. GWS.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 23 January, 2012, 12:20:29 pm
Ouch Fuzzy, that doesn't exactly sound like fun.  On the plus side, you seem to have walked away from it, mostly, which is good.

Yesterday evening, I cycled back from work, having done some free overtime, and it was probably the quietest commute I've ever had, including ones where a heavy snowfall was in progress.

To be fair, you don't expect a great deal of traffic around midnight the night before a working Monday, but I was surprised at exactly how little traffic there was.

I didn't manage to do that fast a pace, considering I was on Red and carrying virtually nothing (I had the essentials stuffed into a couple of water bottle storage carriers), and only did about 15.9mph average, which admittedly is only just below my all time fastest 16.1mph.  I was somewhat knackered however, having left home for work at midday, so I'll use that excuse. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 23 January, 2012, 12:44:46 pm
Quote from: fuzzy on 23 January, 2012, 08:39:19 am
First chance at 'pooter input since Friday afternoon.

I usualy leave the bike at work over the weekend and drive home Friday evening.

I decided that this weekend was G G G G Granvilles weekend for a bit of TLC so rode home.

Big mistake.

Descending Quarry Wood Lane from Winter Hill towards Marlow. Negotiating the hairpin and was just at the apex when the front wheel went out from underneath me, dumping me onto shellgrip at about 18 MPH. I don't know if I hit something like a stone or touched a patch of oil, the wheel just went. By the time I had finished sliding, I found myself in the middle of the exit of a blind bend with car lights approaching. Cue panic to drag me and G G G G Granville out of the way. I managed this and then relaised that bits of me hurt. Some of them a lot. I had come down on my right knee, elbow and shoulder.

Shellgrip is a bit abrasive so I am currently very sore and scuffed of elbow and knee. I have a bit of whiplash. The worst is my upper arm. Every time I reach for something, I get varying degrees of stabbing pain through the top of my upper arm. My shoulder has red impact/ abrasion marks.

My Karrimor Bike trousers are punctured at the right knee. My Altura Windstream jacket has some of the windproofing abraded off at the shoulder. My helmet has a scuff, as does my helmet mounted JoyStick.

G G G G Granville has a scuffed and displaced right brake/ shifter lever, a very scuffed pedal and the rack has some nice grazes. It looks like my Carradice Barley got away with it (probably due to the frame pump which fell off earlier and got shoved in the bag through the flap acting as a slider.

Three cars and their occupants stopped to make sure I was OK.

There are currently some nice slide out scratches on the exit to the bend.

SWMBO gave me a lift to work.

Arm hurts like a bastard whe I reach for my desk mounted mug of tea.

...and gws from here, too.

What is going on with us? there seem to be an inordinate number of unintentional body-road interfaces happening this year.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 23 January, 2012, 12:51:00 pm
I enjoyed the commute this morning.  No rain so I could ride all the way as I want to, and cheaper.  I will probably ride home for the first time since the accident.  The main issue is rain. The dressing and wound must be kept dry.  Fortunately the wound is finally showing signs of healing.  When I redressed the knee the hole is only pi/4 cm2. My mum said what are you on about, so I said it is round now so I have to use pi in the size.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 23 January, 2012, 03:12:40 pm
Ouch, Fuzzy.  I'd always assumed that was less likely to happen on shellgrip.  I'm going to not assume that in future.
Heal well, matey.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Juan Martín on 23 January, 2012, 03:56:43 pm
Bad luck Fuzzy, GWS.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 23 January, 2012, 04:14:10 pm
Thanks for the GWS's folks.

Basil, I always thought shellgrip was fairly sure footing. In fact, I have negotiated that bend in Yahoo Banshee Warrior mode with no problems before. I dont know what threw my front wheel ot- grit, oil, a stone, diesel? it certainly wasn't over exuberance.

Shellgrip does make for a sore landing though and one certainly doesn't slide far.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 23 January, 2012, 04:21:55 pm
There seems to be an awful lot of diesel about at the moment, for some reason.   >:(

GWS, fuzzy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 23 January, 2012, 04:35:43 pm
Not so much "on the commute", but "on the nipping out to shop for lunch".  I looked out of the window at a looming black cloud, and optimistically estimated that it was moving on a trajectory that would miss me.

Wrong.  :(

And, because I chose to ride out without a helmet, the 5mm-diameter hailstones really stung my exposed head.

I've been sat at my desk in my going-down-the-pub jeans, as my smart trousers are hanging up in the storeroom.  Dripping.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 23 January, 2012, 06:13:46 pm
Yup.  Overfilled tank.  Sharp corner.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: corshamjim on 23 January, 2012, 06:13:58 pm
This evening was one of those extremely rare occasions when I didn't quite feel like riding home.  As soon as I was on the bike though I fairly flew home. I think I must've had a tail wind.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 23 January, 2012, 06:14:37 pm
I had a proper head-on prang.

Girl riding the other way on a psyclepath (which I'm pretty much forced to use because the alternative is a 3-lane 50mph dual carriageway where bus drivers try to run me off the road) was keeping right instead of left and not looking where she was going at all.  I could see her, she spotted me at the last minute, and we both took evasive action which, in her case, involved swerving straight into me (I couldn't get over any further or I'd be off the kerb and into oncoming car traffic).  In these circumstances being slightly heavier helps, since she ended up on the ground and I didn't.  However, it did rip the reflector off the bottom of my SPD, ripped the front reflector off her bike and I have a bit of a bruise on my shin which is getting worse.  Apart from that, no apparent injuries.

Did I mention it was dark and she had lights, but they weren't on (even as she rode off)?

I hate psyclepaths; every crash I've had in the last 25 years has been on one.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 23 January, 2012, 06:54:11 pm
Rather silly road rage this morning, a cyclist in shorts ahead of me approached red lights and I'm in primary and a mini squeezes past and cuts in on the cyclist, who banged on the window and made wanker signs. The female driver looked over but didn't respond. It really wasn't that bad an overtake, a bit annoying but not dangerous.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 23 January, 2012, 08:22:14 pm
Quote from: Basil on 23 January, 2012, 06:13:46 pm
Yup.  Overfilled tank.  Sharp corner.

It could be deisel and I've noticed a bit more of that around lately.
I'm wondering if the road had been gritted and it had since turned to slime. The gritter would have slowed for the bend and possibly deliberately dumped more grit on the bend as they often do on roundabouts so that they are extra slippy when they get damp.

GWS fuzzy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 23 January, 2012, 09:28:58 pm
Pleasant 32 mile round trip, no idiots in cars or on bikes.  Except me perhaps as the batteries ran out on my rear light  :facepalm:
Used the ones out of my headtorch which are practically brand new.

As said before: GWS Fuzzy!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 24 January, 2012, 06:02:54 am
Quote from: spindrift on 23 January, 2012, 06:54:11 pm
Rather silly road rage this morning, a cyclist in shorts ahead of me approached red lights and I'm in primary and a mini squeezes past and cuts in on the cyclist, who banged on the window and made wanker signs. The female driver looked over but didn't respond. It really wasn't that bad an overtake, a bit annoying but not dangerous.

I often have 'issues' with Minis and Smartcars. 

They seem to have an unrealistic perception that their vehicle is actually a motorbike and can squeeze through the smallest gap.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 24 January, 2012, 06:26:58 am
Quote from: spindrift on 23 January, 2012, 06:54:11 pm
Rather silly road rage this morning, a cyclist in shorts ahead of me approached red lights and I'm in primary and a mini squeezes past and cuts in on the cyclist, who banged on the window and made wanker signs. The female driver looked over but didn't respond. It really wasn't that bad an overtake, a bit annoying but not dangerous.
Do you not think that if you can bang on the window of a passing car, it might be a bit of a dangerous overtake? (unless she was creeping past, slowly).  The reason I find some overtakes "a bit annoying" is exactly because they are potentially dangerous and drivers should understand this.  Some of us are experienced enough to keep a straight, clean line when buzzed close and fast by a motor but how does the driver know that is the kind of cyclist he/she is approaching?   A cyclist might wobble, might be forced into a pothole, there's a whole host of things that can happen. I, personally, don't bang on car windows or use obscenities, verbal or non verbal, and wouldn't recommend it as a course of action, but I absolutely understand why some cyclists do react in this way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 24 January, 2012, 07:12:15 am
But it was approaching a red light - so probably not high speed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 24 January, 2012, 09:04:01 am
Wet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 24 January, 2012, 09:14:56 am
Quote from: SteveC on 24 January, 2012, 09:04:01 am
Wet.
Very, but it's washed the spilt diesel, bloody farmers,  that I noticed on the way home last night off the road. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 24 January, 2012, 09:25:10 am
I had a look at the scene on the way home last night. The shellgrip is a bit patchy where I had my off and I think I lost my wheel at the point where the shellgrip gave out and became bald tarmac. This combined with greasy surface conditions made the result inevitable :-\

Skinned bits are a lot better today. Arm and shoulder making up for it though :'(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 24 January, 2012, 09:34:53 am
Wet

Wet

and

Wet
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 24 January, 2012, 09:36:07 am
Started off just a little wet, but luckily I donned Rainlegs and my Montane from the beginning because as I got closer to Swindon it got more and more wet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 24 January, 2012, 09:48:43 am
Hope you heal quickly, fuzzy!

I was back on the bike today, thought it was a struggle to get out of bed.  A bit damp, but not to the point I regretted going without rainlegs & overshoes.  Hopefully it will clear up, as predicted, by the evening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 24 January, 2012, 10:02:43 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 24 January, 2012, 09:34:53 am
Wet

Wet

and

Wet

you should record a song.How about "Love Is All Around"?
could be a big hit for you
 ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 24 January, 2012, 11:26:10 am
Hurrah for Rainlegs!

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 24 January, 2012, 11:35:50 am
Moist.

That would have been OK, but the roads were infested with motorised parasites, drooling diesel on the roads :-\

Slower going than normal, but fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 24 January, 2012, 12:17:22 pm
Wet & miserable!  I always, well 99% of the time have a headwind all the way into work & it's no fun on a morning like today.  However the rain has stopped & the ride home should be fine  :)
Most of my clothes are over the radiator next to my desk & will hopefully be a little bit drier by the time I go home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 24 January, 2012, 12:23:12 pm
Very slow today, 47 mins for 12.2 miles. lots of idiots about including the taxi who wouldn't yield to anyone, including me, the net result of which was when tha two lanes became one due to roadworks Mr taxi driver and a mondeo managed to get themselves both pointed into the single lane so neither could proceed and neither could reverse due to the muppets behind, while I weaved through the cones and hopped over the open trench ( yes naughty I know)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil on 24 January, 2012, 12:29:04 pm
I'd have wimped out from the rain but I had a new waterproof to test.  Very nice it is too :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 24 January, 2012, 01:07:21 pm
There was fresh diesel waiting for me outside my front door; thank you Lambeth rubbish truck.

I only got my rain poncho in November and I've already used it at least half a dozen times.

It does seem to be a foolproof way of keeping your hands warm and dry when draped over the handlebars, however stoopid it looks  :thumbsup: Plus I rarely get stupid overtakes with it, perhaps because it makes me look really wide and flaps around a bit. Like a cycling tent.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 24 January, 2012, 01:24:50 pm
Careful, the way things are going you could be done for cycling within tent.


I'll get my poncho.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 24 January, 2012, 01:45:10 pm
*groan*  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 24 January, 2012, 02:16:47 pm
Humm.
Remained dry ( if a little icy ) on the way in, but the weather is deteriorating. 
It's raining here, and gazing towards the hills it looks like the very fume of Mordor itself.

"The one place in Angus we don't want to see any closer... the one place we're trying to get to... "

Think I'll sneak off early and give myself a bit of spare time.

ETA: Wet, fog, and a bit slow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 24 January, 2012, 02:53:09 pm
I rode in at 0630 and it was Vladivostok on the bike. Went for a coffee at 1030, and got my first view outside, of spray from aircraft on the runway. It was chucking it down.

Wet on the way home, then...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonBuoy on 24 January, 2012, 05:43:01 pm
I could have used the sensible bike with mudguards that I usually commute on but...

I took the new bike without mudguards and sprayed what felt like gallons of ice-cold muddy water up my b*m cr*ck.

It was worth it.   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 24 January, 2012, 07:17:20 pm
Wet, fog, puncture
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 24 January, 2012, 07:37:22 pm
Sufficiently wet that none of my stuff dried out before hometime.  Yuck.

There were loads of diesel slicks around Swindon too.  It must be "leave your fuel cap off week".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Julian on 24 January, 2012, 09:19:02 pm
Freelancing as a favour for the next few weeks, and there's no way to get there other than cycling (well, not without taking about 90 minutes for a 6 mile journey).

Way in: wet.  Very.

Way back: some yobbo threw something spherical that collided with my left thigh rather hard.  I remained upright :thumbsup: but now have a circular bruise :(

I'd forgotten how much I love working in areas of high social exclusion :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jasper the surreal cyclist on 24 January, 2012, 09:31:22 pm
A big thank you to whomsoever turned the drying room fan off at work. I was over at Shoreham working. Returned to find wet stuff waiting for me to put on and cycle home. Lovely.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: corshamjim on 24 January, 2012, 10:00:09 pm
I was glad to find yes I had left a spare pair of socks at work today.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 25 January, 2012, 09:18:06 am
The record has been broken!

61 pedals to work last week. Today…

45!!

Beat that yer bums.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 25 January, 2012, 10:31:08 am
Nice ride in today, a bit warm, but topped off by a beautifully executed, textbook perfect overtake by a 3 series BMW coupe emitting very loud rap music.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 January, 2012, 10:51:27 am
I was all ready for work, and was stepping out the door.  As I put the bike on the floor, I noticed it sunk a bit far.  Arse!  Puncture.  That's two in a week (and three in about eighteen months for the Durano Plus). >:(

So I got the wheel off, fought the tyre off the wheel, and began picking stuff out the tyre.  I got four pieces of glass and six flints, as well as another hole which I don't think had anything in.

Maybe these tyres are worn out.  Not as flat as the first set got.

I'm quite shocked by how well the pointies penetrate (though, tbf, they don't often get far enough to cause problems).  I might go for Marathons for the next set of commuting tyres.  I had some M 25s before, which were a bit of a harsh ride, but I have to admit they were a bit narrow for the rim, even if they were a bargain.

Anyway, once I got moving and fought my way into the insane amounts of crawling motorised traffic, I managed a very respectable time into work, even if I was late. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 25 January, 2012, 11:28:51 am
Three conversations with the same scooter rider.

#1 he overtaking me
SR - F**k off!

#2 at next lights
Me - I'm sorry I didn't catch that
SR - You're in the middle of the road.  Why don't you move over so people can pass?
Me - I don't want people to pass.  It's dangerous to have them squeeze between me and the bollards.
SR - You're holding everyone up
Me - I just caught up with you

#3 two sets of lights on
SR - Oh
Me - D'you get it?  It'd be dangerous for me to let people pass back there.
SR - I know.  I ride myself.

And yes, it was definitely the same guy.  I wonder what he's like to work with.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 25 January, 2012, 04:36:42 pm
Major blockage on the A24 northbound by Sainsbury's at North Cheam on the way home this afternoon.  Closed to vehicles and pedestrians and lots of blues & twos.

I do hope nobody has been seriously hurt. Sadly not all members of the public were sympathetic, much conniption.  One charming individual wanted to "effing get home".

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 25 January, 2012, 04:39:34 pm
Quote from: Chris L on 25 January, 2012, 11:28:51 am


And yes, it was definitely the same guy.  I wonder what he's like to work with.

I think I work with him and his 20 brothers, would you really like to know?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 25 January, 2012, 05:32:58 pm
Saw the police doing bike marking on the way home by the statue of Hogarth. My pomp isn't marked so I stopped and had it done.  Thought I better go get the fratello and get it done as well (you don't often see them marking, so better take the opportunity I thought).

Rode fratello back to them, and got it marked, sadly, the lovely meticulous lady who did the pomp was marking other bikes, so I got the pcso with the rough touch, who managed to spread the etching fluid over the edge of the mask and onto other bits of the frame. So my lovely orange fratello now has a small patch of blue on the downtube. I was maybe rather more ungrateful than I should have been, and he did apologise, but I was a bit upset. Probably be one of the more costly bikes they mark up today, and they let the clumsy one loose on it.

Oh well, it's only a mark, there are a couple of others elsewhere.

Home now, debating whether to whizz down there on Cass' sit up and beg hybrid thing, I think I will have a cuppa though, not sure I want to see the pcso again! 

Good to see them out though, and nailing wallies without lights, and those riding through the red light (what the £&@; goes through your mind when you ride through a red light when there are 8 police bods in hi viz stood next to the light?).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 25 January, 2012, 05:42:42 pm
Quote from: marcusjb on 25 January, 2012, 05:32:58 pm
Good to see them out though, and nailing wallies without lights, and those riding through the red light (what the £&@; goes through your mind when you ride through a red light when there are 8 police bods in hi viz stood next to the light?).

It makes you wonder if some of those RLJers genuinely think that red lights don't apply to them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 25 January, 2012, 05:45:34 pm
You really do have to wonder. Amazing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 25 January, 2012, 06:02:50 pm
Quote from: marcusjb on 25 January, 2012, 05:32:58 pm
(what the £&@; goes through your mind when you ride through a red light when there are 8 police bods in hi viz stood next to the light?).

nothing:that's the problem,the RLJs are brain dead.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 25 January, 2012, 07:00:04 pm
Quote from: jogler on 25 January, 2012, 06:02:50 pm
Quote from: marcusjb on 25 January, 2012, 05:32:58 pm
(what the £&@; goes through your mind when you ride through a red light when there are 8 police bods in hi viz stood next to the light?).

nothing:that's the problem,the RLJs are brain dead.

Exactly.  I was waiting near a junction in Regent's Park once, waiting for a fellow rider when I saw a cyclist sail right through the red light - at which was stopped a police car.  :facepalm:  Yes, they went after her.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 25 January, 2012, 08:41:14 pm
It was horribly windy coming home.  I could have done without that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Charlie Boy on 25 January, 2012, 08:43:05 pm
And rainy. Horizontal and cold, right in the face. Not fun. But feeling  O:-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 25 January, 2012, 08:49:08 pm
My conscience was pricking me when I left work today; it was still light.  Even though I'd done half an hour of unpaid overtime, I still felt as though I was sneaking out early.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 25 January, 2012, 10:23:53 pm
Police van parked near new Spitalfield Market this morning. Another cyclist told me they were issuing fixed penalty notices for RLJ, and that he got caught yesterday. Not sure if its a coordinated action, but TFL was sending emails looking like this a few days ago

Quote
Dear Mr X,

I am writing to both cyclists and drivers to remind them to take care on London’s roads.

Cyclists are reminded to:

Be aware of blind spots all around large vehicles. It’s often safer to hang back
Make eye contact with drivers to make sure they have seen you
Not ride through red traffic lights. It’s dangerous and you can be fined £30
Allow space between you and parked vehicles. Doors may be opened suddenly
Cycle training courses are available in most London boroughs.
For more information, please visit tfl.gov.uk/cyclesafety

Yours sincerely,

Ben Plowden
Director, Surface Planning
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 25 January, 2012, 11:09:22 pm
Quote from: MattH on 25 January, 2012, 05:42:42 pm
It makes you wonder if some of those RLJers genuinely think that red lights don't apply to them.

I stopped one of our BUG members one morning just after she had sailed through a red light ped crossing. She genuinely had no idea (or so she claimed) that what she had done was wrong. "But it was only a pedestrian light. And there was no-one crossing."

I pinged a mail out to all four of the company's BUGs across the country to remind them in as non condescending manner as I could manage and got no response, bar one from a grumpy sod who took exception to being lectured, and complained that it was obvious that red lights are illegal to go through and everyone knows this, and no-one is going to listen to you anyway, blah blah blah.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 25 January, 2012, 11:15:14 pm
A bird did an enormous poo on me. If I'd been a fraction of a second slower, I'd have got about 100mls of poo right in the face. As it was, my back was proper splattered. It must have been a big bigger.

Also, my chain tug broke. I now see it's because my nuts are right on the edge of the dropout, so hitting the nut. I don't want to lose the clearance I have by removing a link, so I'm now without a tug. I tensioned and centred the wheel really easy without it, so I think I'm okay.
Title: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 25 January, 2012, 11:21:19 pm
I encountered an example of the Lesser-spotted Tailwind on the way home today. A rare pleasue :)
Title: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 25 January, 2012, 11:26:04 pm
Quote from: DrMekon on 25 January, 2012, 11:15:14 pm
it's because my nuts are right on the edge of the dropout
Thats some strange riding position Doc.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 25 January, 2012, 11:37:31 pm
^^^^
ROFLMA

 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CamPhil on 25 January, 2012, 11:38:21 pm
Quote from: alexb on 25 January, 2012, 10:31:08 am
Nice ride in today, a bit warm, but topped off by a beautifully executed, textbook perfect overtake by a 3 series BMW coupe emitting very loud rap music.

What is the world coming to?

You can't rely on anything these days  ;D

Next you know, they'll be keeping to speed limits  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 25 January, 2012, 11:46:36 pm
Extended ride home round the west and south of Cambridge, 25 miles instead of the direct route’s 5 miles. A bit windy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 26 January, 2012, 05:38:06 am
Looks like this morning's commute will be wet & windy.  Oh boundless joy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 26 January, 2012, 06:17:27 am
Mmm, just about to leave. Yuk!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 26 January, 2012, 08:41:46 am
Quote from: Andrij on 26 January, 2012, 05:38:06 am
Looks like this morning's commute will be wet & windy.  Oh boundless joy.

It was windy but not as wet as I feared, though still a hard slog.  I think I earned my egg-and-bacon-on-toasted-granary-with-brown-sauce today. AND I resisted the urge to buy a doughnut to go along with my brekkie.  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 26 January, 2012, 09:00:09 am
Smooooth rolling this morning, baby.

2" of lovely baldness at 50psi
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 26 January, 2012, 09:11:38 am
Quote from: Andrij on 26 January, 2012, 08:41:46 am

It was windy but not as wet as I feared

You have me to thank for this. This is because as a few drops of rain started to fall as I left my estate, I pulled over while I still had some shelter under the flats and wrestled on the rain cape. This must be quite an amusing spectacle to onlookers, because it is a voluminous thing and locating the head hole and then attaching the loops to my handlebars always feels a bit like I’m fighting with it.

Then, of course, it stopped raining.

In other news, Lambeth council had again kindly spread the road outside my door with diesel, I am so glad my council tax is spent this way. Someone equally kind had spread it around the roundabout at the end of Lambeth bridge, because obviously steering around that adds an extra element of adventure.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 26 January, 2012, 09:17:51 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 26 January, 2012, 09:11:38 am
Quote from: Andrij on 26 January, 2012, 08:41:46 am

It was windy but not as wet as I feared

You have me to thank for this. This is because as a few drops of rain started to fall as I left my estate, I pulled over while I still had some shelter under the flats and wrestled on the rain cape. This must be quite an amusing spectacle to onlookers, because it is a voluminous thing and locating the head hole and then attaching the loops to my handlebars always feels a bit like I’m fighting with it.

TPIUWVideo  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 26 January, 2012, 09:34:10 am
Pseudo commuted solo on the tandem. It needed a shake-down ride after some fettling. It was slow going last night, but picked up a lot after I collected my stoker  :).

Tailwind assisted coming back this morning (solo again) so much faster than the ride west last night, but it was wet wet wet.

I had a minor interaction with a couple of kids in hatch-backs, being dopey around the roundabouts at Tesco and Morissons. They turned into the latter, and I was half thinking of going and giving them a piece of my mind, but I was too cowardy custard. There were two of them and only one of me, and they could have come from Thetford which would mean a good chance of getting a sawn-off in the face. Or a face full of Portugese/Polish/Latvian/Estonian abuse. Best left, IMHO.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 January, 2012, 10:48:15 am
Lungs: We can't do this.  Asthma is upon us, and we're barely functional.  Two nights we've been up, ingesting enough salbutamol to give an elephant heart failure.

Legs:  Don't worry.  Leave it to us.

Lungs: But I can't promise you oxygen.

Legs:  No problem.  There's a tailwind.  We'll coast in front of it.

Lungs: What about coming home, though?  That'll be into the wind.

Legs: (sternly) We're not talking about that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 26 January, 2012, 10:51:28 am
Very icy on the high ground this morning.
Had to walk down the first 1k of steep desent, it was un-rideable.  Remainder of descent was ridden at close to walking pace. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 26 January, 2012, 10:52:05 am
Quote from: clarion on 26 January, 2012, 10:48:15 am
Lungs: What about coming home, though?  That'll be into the wind.

Legs: (sternly) We're not talking about that.

"Honey, be a bit late for tea - taking the great circle route home, to keep the tailwind" ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 January, 2012, 10:53:37 am
Clipless moment in Upper Tooting Road.  Fell with head not three inches in front of a car bumper.  Fortunately it wasn't me, the traffic was stationary, and the cyclist wasn't badly hurt.  Pride severely bruised.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 26 January, 2012, 11:19:13 am
Quote from: Andrij on 25 January, 2012, 07:00:04 pm
Quote from: jogler on 25 January, 2012, 06:02:50 pm
Quote from: marcusjb on 25 January, 2012, 05:32:58 pm
(what the £&@; goes through your mind when you ride through a red light when there are 8 police bods in hi viz stood next to the light?).

nothing:that's the problem,the RLJs are brain dead.

Exactly.  I was waiting near a junction in Regent's Park once, waiting for a fellow rider when I saw a cyclist sail right through the red light - at which was stopped a police car.  :facepalm:  Yes, they went after her.

Monday evening, as I was proceeding along the Mall, I went through a green light that moments later changed to amber. A few seconds after that, a taxi passed me. A few seconds after that, a police car passed me and pulled the taxi over.

Schadenfreude.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 26 January, 2012, 11:22:32 am
OH YEAH!!!!!!

...must remember to find out how the registered owner of a car I filmed jumping lights did in court last week. Got taken to court for not identifying the driver, rather than for the red light jumping.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 January, 2012, 11:25:25 am
Telephone call:

Clarion: Hello.  I'm not sure who I need to speak to.  I'm afraid I need to make a complaint about one of your drivers.

Person on telephone for housing trust: I'm sorry to hear that.   You need to complain in writing.

C: OK.  I can email.  The driving was really bad.  Who do I need to email?

P: Well, we need to find out who his manager is.

C: Who manages your transport then?  This was a minibus?

P: What drivers?  This is <Redacted>.

C: It was a minibus.  It had your details on the side.  I'd not heard of <Redacted> before.  I've got the registration, and a description of the driver.  And I see you're based in West London.  This minibus was in Balham.  Should be easy to identify who was over there.

P: Do you know his name?

*pause*

C: Well, he was driving badly.  I didn't stop and ask him for his CV. ::-)

*et fucking cetera...*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 26 January, 2012, 12:19:07 pm
Quote from: MattH on 25 January, 2012, 05:42:42 pm
Quote from: marcusjb on 25 January, 2012, 05:32:58 pm
Good to see them out though, and nailing wallies without lights, and those riding through the red light (what the £&@; goes through your mind when you ride through a red light when there are 8 police bods in hi viz stood next to the light?).

It makes you wonder if some of those RLJers genuinely think that red lights don't apply to them.

Well the guy in the Lotus Exige driving through Altrincham this morning must have been convinced that they didn't apply to him as he went through FIVE of them including one right turn across three lanes of traffic...........where was he in such a rush to go?...Tesco.....and he got beat by a hippy onna bike who stopped at the reds  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 26 January, 2012, 01:03:08 pm
I've just been given a bottle of wine by a cow-orker I did some electronics-fettling for earlier this week.

I cycled in this morning, and wondered how to get it home.
It does, in fact, fit perfectly into the bottle-holders on the bike!
I'd look a mighty strange sight on the way home!

In the end, I've decided that would be silly, so I'll leave it till tomorrow.
The main silliness would be the consequences of me coming off ( which is a real possibility at the moment ), and finding myself in the midst of a bunch of broken glass and red wine.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 26 January, 2012, 01:13:19 pm
Quote from: Feanor on 26 January, 2012, 01:03:08 pm

In the end, I've decided that would be silly, so I'll leave it till tomorrow.
The main silliness would be the consequences of me coming off ( which is a real possibility at the moment ), and finding myself in the midst of a bunch of broken glass and red wine.

But Occifer- I WASN'T drink cycling. I was carrying it home. Honest!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 January, 2012, 01:51:38 pm
Saw two interesting riders on the way in - one was a longhaired person on a carbon Pearson who rode like a rocket, but was even more unlucky than me for red lights, so I caught them enough to determine that it's a man, of oriental origin, though I couldn't guess from where, who is incredibly slight.  Not even significant leg muscles to speak of, just goes very very fast.

Second was a chap on a Sabbath Silk Road.  At Balham, he simply couldn't wait for a very frail old lady to finish crossing the road with her walking frame, but shot off anyway, round the back of her, giving her a shock.

When the road was clear, I got my steel grid working, and I half-wheeled him up Balham Hill.  Each time he put the power on, I matched it.  Annoyed him no end.  Utterly childish, I know, but maybe he's worked out (after I told him) that he's not so fast he needed to scare elderly people, and can wait instead.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 26 January, 2012, 02:11:11 pm
Unfortunately, I have a suspicion I get treated worse by some of the more roadified commuters now I’m on my sit-up bike in normal clothes – perhaps it’s because they think I’m not ‘proper’, I dunno. They often pass me closely and cut in front. One bashed my pannier squeezing past me at the lights and then sat in front of me like nothing had happened – no harm done, but if I’d done that I’d at least have said a sheepish sorry. In their desperation to get in front of me they often place themselves where they cannot see the lights so I have to call out to them the bloody things have gone green.

I think perhaps it’s like the car driver ‘A bike! Must overtake!’ mentality, except it’s ‘A slow bike! And Not Lycra or HiViz! Must overtake!’ instead. And yes, I am deliberately slow on that bike because I’m trying not to break a sweat, so I do get more people overtaking than I used to, but I still like a bit of personal space, thanks.

Still, at least two people have taken photos of me as I’m sat at the lights by Big Ben, which is kinda nice!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: red marley on 26 January, 2012, 02:43:22 pm
I share your frustration over cyclists squeezing in front of you at red lights only to put themselves in a poor position. I don't know if it's much to do with a judgment of the rider's speed though. On my commute I tend to ride quite fast where traffic permits and am Rapha'd up to the eyeballs on my Condor fixie. I reckon 10-20 people do this to me daily.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 January, 2012, 03:05:08 pm
I admit that, if I'm coming up to an ASL full of cyclists, I will make a quick visual appraisal of any who I haven't seen moving.  And, yes, this leads to certain false assumptions, but, generally, if a rider looks like they might be quicker, they will be. 

Couple of riders to that statement, however.  Firstly, a lot of riders who are very fast when moving set off verrrrry slowly in a high gear.  I don't.  I tend to get away very smartly, and getting stuck behind someone while they take forever to get their carbon machine moving and their foot clipped into whatever single sided pedal system they use can be bloody frustrating.

Secondly, there's the ATGNI.  So it's not so much on the gear as the cyclist that I will make a judgement - what is their (physical) attitude?  Are their pedals set?  How about those leg muscles?  Are they watching out?  Are they, by contrast, panting with exhaustion after feeling they must pass that woman cyclist on the last stretch?

If someone looks like they have a reasonable chance of being faster than me, I'll pull in behind rather than ahead or alongside.  I never push through a group of cyclists to be at the front of the ASL (or beyond it) for the sake of it.  Most of them I can pass in the first few seconds anyway, so where's the pressure?

It must be said that I get assessed myself.  I've got a tatty, be-stickered bike with a Carradice saddlebag and a Sturmey Archer hub gear.  Oh - and a propstand.  Added to which, I'm clearly not young, and no racing snake.  I get incorrectly categorised.  It doesn't bother me the first time, but, if someone keeps coming up from behind when I'm stopped at red, and pushing in the way, I might be annoyed, and might say summat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 26 January, 2012, 03:19:23 pm
To be clear, I don’t mind them going in front, especially not on that bike. 9 out of 10 people are faster than me when I’m on the Gazelle, which is fine; I save time on getting changed the other end.

However, a) I like them to move off quickly, not hover around in my way because they can’t see the lights and b) I’d really rather they didn’t bash into me and then act as though nothing happened.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 January, 2012, 03:26:37 pm
Bashing into people is just plain Bad Manners.  I occasionally have riders failing to trackstand near me and wobbling into me.  To be fair, they've only actually hit me on about four occasions, which is just over once a year, so it's not that bad, considering the number of junctions.  Trackstand FAIL normally takes them across the crossing, which also Pisses Me Off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 26 January, 2012, 08:47:20 pm
Got a right good scare on the way home tonight, partly my fault  :-[

Light fading.
On the fast, bendy descent off the summit, doing perhaps 35 mph.
At these speeds, your line through the bends is somewhat pre-determined.
A RH bend, and I'm well to the left going into it, and cutting over towards the middle of the road on the apex, and back towards the left on the exit.

Just as I was reaching the middle of the road on the apex, ( I can't say whether I crossed the middle or not; there's no marking ) I realised I was being over-taken by a car.   It's headlight was 6" from my right knee.   It gave us both a fright, and he braked and backed off behind me and I continued on my line.   He passed safely on the straight after the bend.

Now, I feel he chose a bad place to overtake ( on the bend ), because he couldn't do so safely if he had anticipated my likely line through the bend.   There was a straight just ahead he could have used instead.

But I failed to make proper observation ( a basic shoulder-check ) before moving across the road.

It's actually quite hard to do this when descending at speed, since you are concentrating on the road immediately in front of you, all the more so in the dusk / dark.
My lack of awareness was also compounded by the fact that I'm wearing a thick neoprene-ish cap under my lid to keep warm, and this blocks out a lot of sound.

<shudder>
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 27 January, 2012, 09:11:30 am
Early this morning along the canal, almost deserted at this time overtook a lady in high-heeled boots doing about 27km/h having a hard time controlling the handlebars on her powerful but noodley electric bike on the uneven path.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 27 January, 2012, 09:15:04 am
Gorgeous clear morning.

And work have cleared out the basement of various junk, because so many people are cycling it was getting a bit jammed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JJ on 27 January, 2012, 10:38:13 am
Shanks' pony.  Gorgeous blue skies, but icy underfoot in patches.  The bikes overtaking me didn't seem to notice however. Legs not very willing today!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 27 January, 2012, 11:23:12 am
Quote from: JJ on 27 January, 2012, 10:38:13 am
...but icy underfoot in patches.  The bikes overtaking me didn't seem to notice however.
Country lane: Heel over. *c-r-i-n-k-l-e c-r-i-n-k-l-e*. Clench. Vertical. Sigh of relief...  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: corshamjim on 27 January, 2012, 01:03:03 pm
The rural roads were so icy there were very few other bicycles about  :-[  but very few cars too.   :thumbsup:

This morning was one for smug reflection on the wisdom of purchasing Schwalbe Marathon Winter tyres, although tempered by the discovery that my front wheel has a slow puncture (courtesy of the ancient inner tube and not a reflection on the reliability of the tyre).  I hope it doesn't deflate too much before home time as I forgot to bring my pump today too.   :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 27 January, 2012, 01:05:29 pm
Super ride, made even better by the fact it's Friday and the snow another forumite was trying to convince me was going to happen didn't. Told you I hadn't booked it  :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 27 January, 2012, 02:34:44 pm
Left later than planned, again.  Then encountered LOTS of RLJs - which I kept catching time and time again.  >:(

OTOH, the above was outweighed by the site of a woman doing the school run on a lime green Yuba and getting "That's a gorgeous bike" (ref. the Hewitt) from a fellow velo-commuter on a Colnago.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Marj on 27 January, 2012, 04:09:33 pm
Quote from: Si_Co on 27 January, 2012, 01:05:29 pm
Super ride, made even better by the fact it's Friday and the snow another forumite was trying to convince me was going to happen didn't. Told you I hadn't booked it  :P

I think all the snow that was forecast has been dumped on Yarlet Bank, coming home that way and there's a 3 vehicle shunt and the road was treacherous, just down the road in Stone the roads are clear.  You must have a direct line with God  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 27 January, 2012, 06:06:07 pm
Quote from: No1Son
Hit some ice in front of The Bull, and somehow managed to stay on. But I had to deflate the back tyre to put it back in, and apparently my pump is a car valve one. Is it worth switching to singlespeed?
Quote from: concerned parent
Not really any ice avoidance benefit of switching to single speed. Your pump does both, the head needs switching is all. Any bruising?
Quote from: No1Son
You can stop pedalling when you hit the ice on singlespeed, and not get pushed out of the saddle and lose balance. But oh well. I didn't switch. No bruises, and only one person waiting for the bus saw :-)

Is he right? Singlespeed better than fixed on ice?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 January, 2012, 06:22:28 pm
I'm more puzzled about what's happened to the wheel if he stayed on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 27 January, 2012, 07:37:49 pm
Quote from: fboab on 27 January, 2012, 06:06:07 pm


Is he right?

if he is a teenager he is correct.teenagers know evrything dontyaknow ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cyberknight on 27 January, 2012, 09:17:28 pm
hail and sleet  on the way home today , only dressed for  milder weather Doohhhh !
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 27 January, 2012, 09:20:05 pm
A little sleetey on the way home in Brum tonight.  Which was a bit surprising as it didn't feel anything like cold enough for that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 27 January, 2012, 09:49:40 pm
Timing...
It has only rained for fifteen minutes here today.
Guess when I was cycling home  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 27 January, 2012, 10:07:38 pm
A cheat of a commute, but I know some of you do it when you get the chance.

On the way to clearing my parent's garage I walked through their garage, out the other side and got on my bike and rode 27 miles 44 km back to the garage. Warm sunshine, light breezes and absolutely no traffic lights. Every single overtaking car crossed to the other side of the road, cars waiting to turn across my path would wait 20 seconds to do so. Also notable was the fact that there are far more cyclists out and about around here than I've seen in the past and when you wave they shout 'Allez, allez!' Rural France is great.

I had a couple of things to remind me of home. A large cloud with the profile of Guy's Hospital proved a good target to head for on the way out and a twat in a BMW. To be fair he did perform an excellent overtake on the two cyclists just ahead of me, unfortunately I was travelling in the opposite direction and was faced with a head-on beemer at 120kph+. Nice smooth verge fortunately.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 28 January, 2012, 01:24:37 pm
Hooned it back from Reading last night.  Must have been the beer in the pub beforehand.  Good company meant I left it late and so had to put the hammer down.  Probably the fastest night-time passage of the ford at Bramley ever.   Luckily I now know the best line to take.  Having the lights on a space bar meant there was nowhere easy to put the takeaway pizza  :-\ but somehow failed to drop it and got home just in time to avoid brownie point dockage.   :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 29 January, 2012, 06:06:29 am
Parts were cold and then warm.  Very strange.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 29 January, 2012, 10:20:26 am
Quote from: fboab on 27 January, 2012, 06:06:07 pm
Quote from: No1Son
Hit some ice in front of The Bull, and somehow managed to stay on. But I had to deflate the back tyre to put it back in, and apparently my pump is a car valve one. Is it worth switching to singlespeed?
Quote from: concerned parent
Not really any ice avoidance benefit of switching to single speed. Your pump does both, the head needs switching is all. Any bruising?
Quote from: No1Son
You can stop pedalling when you hit the ice on singlespeed, and not get pushed out of the saddle and lose balance. But oh well. I didn't switch. No bruises, and only one person waiting for the bus saw :-)

Is he right? Singlespeed better than fixed on ice?

In my limited experience, the ability to freewheel (usually whilst clenched) is what is important.

Single speed or geared is a different question - but I deliberately went for an ability to free wheel with my Ice Bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 30 January, 2012, 01:58:12 pm
Say you’re riding along a cycle lane, a lorry is ahead indicating left at the lights, you go up the inside and get squished when the lights change and the lorry turns.

Who’s at fault?

http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard/article-24031972-i-remember-screaming-stop-stop-says-cyclist-dragged-under-left-turning-tanker.do

No way would I ride up there, no way Jose.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 30 January, 2012, 02:45:12 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 30 January, 2012, 01:58:12 pm
Say you’re riding along a cycle lane, a lorry is ahead indicating left at the lights, you go up the inside and get squished when the lights change and the lorry turns.

Who’s at fault?

http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard/article-24031972-i-remember-screaming-stop-stop-says-cyclist-dragged-under-left-turning-tanker.do

No way would I ride up there, no way Jose.

+10^36

I know that junction well, every sympathy for the cyclist, but you'll find me riding (gingerly) in the outside here, real shit cycle lane design http://g.co/maps/pcev7

edit: who is at fault? (1) the cycle lane designers (2) the cyclist (3) the driver

I know some people will argue the prime responsibility is with the driver and I agree 100% with that, but that is subtly and importantly different from who is to blame.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 30 January, 2012, 02:47:02 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 30 January, 2012, 01:58:12 pm
Say you’re riding along a cycle lane, a lorry is ahead indicating left at the lights, you go up the inside and get squished when the lights change and the lorry turns.

Who’s at fault?

http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard/article-24031972-i-remember-screaming-stop-stop-says-cyclist-dragged-under-left-turning-tanker.do

No way would I ride up there, no way Jose.

I feel a bit bad saying this, as I know James, and I know some of what he has been through in the past year, but having gone up the lane in full expectation of being able to use the ASL (which the lorry was blocking) I would have been inclined either to carry on and position myself  where I could not be overlooked or wait until the lorry had moved away fully before moving off myself. But we all make mistakes and there but for the grace of God go many of us.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 30 January, 2012, 02:50:05 pm
It's on my old commute and the cycle lanes are routinely flouted. It's very close to where an unregistered car deliberately drove into me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 30 January, 2012, 08:06:07 pm
Took 5 miles for me to get my fingers warm tonight & the lace in the boa closure on my spesh bg's snapped  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 30 January, 2012, 08:42:43 pm
I spent 2.5 hours on a cold building site this morning, sat in a container cabin without any heating as the burglars had stolen the keys to the generator ignition, taking a statement of loss from the injured party.  By the time I'd finished I was cold to the bone.  Teeth were chattering and I was shaking uncontrollably.  I didn't get back in to the station until 1345 hours and by then I was ravenous.  I ate most of my food for the day, including my pre-bonk ride home treat.  So I had to gel it before I did.  Very glad I did too as it was tiring.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 30 January, 2012, 09:22:41 pm
Sounds like a rough day, there, GruB.

By contrast, I had a rare tailwind home, so, even after cramming pannier and saddlebag with implausible amounts of food, I sailed home up the hill :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 30 January, 2012, 10:02:54 pm
I also decided on my way home that I shall take the Nelson and Bagman QR off and also remove the tri bars.  The bars I don't enjoy with fixed, too much cadence.  The commute needs to be as easy as possible as with the early morning starts I am getting tired as I am working such intense duties - so the old Carradice Super C comes out to play and the Nelson can have a break.
Title: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 30 January, 2012, 11:44:03 pm
Just out the gate from work and I was fiddling with my foot position for some unknown reason. Somehow I twisted my foot inwards on the cleat and caught my heel in the back wheel.
Wheel locked up and left a 10 ft skid on the road. Spoke very bent and wheel unrideable. Took some chunks out of the shoe.
10 mins roadside fettling got it back to rideable, and once home managed to true it nicely in the warm. Got to a fag papers clearance from the brakes. I was well pleased with my trueing until I test rode it up the street, first revolulution with weight on, and the spokes pinged and ponged, and the wheel settled back to just OK. Ho hum.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 30 January, 2012, 11:52:51 pm
Quote from: Parsley on 30 January, 2012, 11:44:03 pm
Just out the gate from work and I was fiddling with my foot position for some unknown reason. Somehow I twisted my foot inwards on the cleat and caught my heel in the back wheel.
Wheel locked up and left a 10 ft skid on the road. Spoke very bent and wheel unrideable. Took some chunks out of the shoe.
10 mins roadside fettling got it back to rideable, and once home managed to true it nicely in the warm. Got to a fag papers clearance from the brakes. I was well pleased with my trueing until I test rode it up the street, first revolulution with weight on, and the spokes pinged and ponged, and the wheel settled back to just OK. Ho hum.

You have to stress relieve the spokes and re-true as you do it to get the pinging and ponging out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 31 January, 2012, 04:45:59 am
I have ice ice baby  :-X :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 31 January, 2012, 08:49:33 am
Was concerned about ice so I avoided the hill and took the alternative low-level route, which had no ice.

Looking up at the hill, it had a light dusting of white on it, but I suspect it would have been OK; although it was cold overnight, I don't think there was enough wetness laying around to make ice-mischief.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 31 January, 2012, 09:13:04 am
Just nasty.  Dark, gloomy oily morning.  Glasses coated in whatever it was that was hanging around in the sky.  The sound of tiny ice particles tinkling on my shoulders.

Still, much more fun than the train would have been, I guess.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 31 January, 2012, 09:18:06 am
Chilly. Silk glove liners (Blacks sale, down to £8.00) kept my fingers toasty.

Approaching a pinch point I'm aware of a lorry behind. He slows nicely, hanging back. After the pinch he passes me nice and wide. And he's driving a skip lorry.  <boggle>

Then approaching a right hand turn off an A road. On coming WVM flashes me through so I don't have to stop.

Must wear the magic silk gloves more often.


Outside a school is the usual traffic chaos, plus a van parked half on the zig zags half on the pavement. Delivering cycle shelters. Irony meter tends towards max.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 31 January, 2012, 09:23:14 am
According to the weather stations, it was -1 most of the night in Leeds, with some drizzle so I was expecting the odd bit of cold black stuff.

Not a single frozen puddle. Not even any ice on cars. Just fog and drizzle.

It's still dark, Mr Frodo. I don't think the sun has come up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 31 January, 2012, 10:55:51 am
Bit chilly.  But I was out earlier than usual, so I went over Chelsea Bridge, along the Embankment, past the Occupy camp, and to work via London Bridge, where I had a great tailwind I'd earned.

Added in an extra kilometre by going round a local square four times.  I sometimes wonder if the pedestrians I pass more than once notice, or whether I'm just another cyclist. ;D

Now, the dilemma is this: It's the last day of the month.  I have a 19km ride home.  I'm currently on 1269.61km for the month/year.  Should I sneak in the extra 11km, or be responsible and get home to feed my bairns? ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 31 January, 2012, 11:38:24 am
Dozen 11<x<13 deer, in the mist, crossing Ridgeway at top of Ashbury  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 31 January, 2012, 01:11:01 pm
Quote from: iddu on 31 January, 2012, 11:38:24 am
Dozen deer, in the mist, crossing Ridgeway at top of Ashbury  :)

I didn't understand this post, I thought you'd seen some sleepy deer and you were using the past tense of "doze".

As you were.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 31 January, 2012, 01:14:36 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 31 January, 2012, 01:11:01 pm
I didn't understand this post, I thought you'd seen some sleepy deer and you were using the past tense of "doze".

Better now (apart from fractional possibilities)? ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 31 January, 2012, 01:19:00 pm
heh.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: plum on 31 January, 2012, 05:50:52 pm
Was filtering down the middle of a narrow traffic locked road, stationary on both sides. Two police on bikes were coming towards me filtering single file along the inside of the traffic on their side. The oncoming traffic moved about 6 inches so a car decided to graciously pull over to give me more room. Only he hadn't seen the bobbies and crunched straight into the one level with him, knocking him against a metal fence along the pavement, and forcing the one behind into his rear end.

I was exactly level with the one who was up against the fence and I looked across at him, and he was just laughing. No idea what he found funny about the situation. Rode on and left them to it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 31 January, 2012, 06:05:56 pm
Ye gods, I've started barking orders at random cyclists now... :facepalm:

I often cycle down this road http://g.co/maps/2sukt (http://g.co/maps/2sukt) Occasionally you get a car driver who is aggressive and wants to squeeze you to get past (and it is a dangerous squeeze, trust me, and they usually do it at speed). So I've taken to riding smack down the middle, much to their ire. The poor dears are delayed by all of ten seconds, usually. It is not a long road.

Today a white van was inches from my back wheel, revving particularly aggressively. At the same time another cyclist was overtaking me on the right side of the road. Quite a lot of cyclists, at this point, dive submissively for the gutter in order to allow cars and vans to squeeze past, and before I knew it I'd shouted 'Don't let him past, there's not enough room!' at the cyclist who was overtaking me. He didn't acknowledge I'd said anything (probably thought I was some loony, giving orders to strangers, this is London after all), but he did stay on the right side of the road, and I stayed on the left not far behind him, so the van driver had no chance of bullying his way past with both of us blocking his way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 31 January, 2012, 06:13:12 pm
Was driving with the bike on the roof earlier, down a narrow street where I had to stay very close to a tall stone wall on my left.

In my peripheral vision, I saw a bike on my left, trying to squeeze between me and the wall!  But there's only inches to spare!
Big adrenalin rush and avoiding tactics till I realised it was the shadow of my own bike on the roof, cast onto the wall by a streetlight!
As I drove forward, the shadow came in fast from behind, pulled forward alongside me, and finally cycled off in front of me.
He was a fast bugger, too.

<phew!>

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 31 January, 2012, 07:10:20 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 31 January, 2012, 06:05:56 pm
Ye gods, I've started barking orders at random cyclists now... :facepalm:

I often cycle down this road http://g.co/maps/2sukt (http://g.co/maps/2sukt) Occasionally you get a car driver who is aggressive and wants to squeeze you to get past (and it is a dangerous squeeze, trust me, and they usually do it at speed). So I've taken to riding smack down the middle, much to their ire. The poor dears are delayed by all of ten seconds, usually. It is not a long road.

Today a white van was inches from my back wheel, revving particularly aggressively. At the same time another cyclist was overtaking me on the right side of the road. Quite a lot of cyclists, at this point, dive submissively for the gutter in order to allow cars and vans to squeeze past, and before I knew it I'd shouted 'Don't let him past, there's not enough room!' at the cyclist who was overtaking me. He didn't acknowledge I'd said anything (probably thought I was some loony, giving orders to strangers, this is London after all), but he did stay on the right side of the road, and I stayed on the left not far behind him, so the van driver had no chance of bullying his way past with both of us blocking his way.

Looking at the width , or lack of width on that road, you'd have to be a complete twunt to try and squeeze past....oh no wait.

Top gutter hugging in the Streetview as well  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 31 January, 2012, 07:18:00 pm
Quote from: Gandalf on 31 January, 2012, 07:10:20 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 31 January, 2012, 06:05:56 pm
Ye gods, I've started barking orders at random cyclists now... :facepalm:

I often cycle down this road http://g.co/maps/2sukt (http://g.co/maps/2sukt) Occasionally you get a car driver who is aggressive and wants to squeeze you to get past (and it is a dangerous squeeze, trust me, and they usually do it at speed). So I've taken to riding smack down the middle, much to their ire. The poor dears are delayed by all of ten seconds, usually. It is not a long road.

Today a white van was inches from my back wheel, revving particularly aggressively. At the same time another cyclist was overtaking me on the right side of the road. Quite a lot of cyclists, at this point, dive submissively for the gutter in order to allow cars and vans to squeeze past, and before I knew it I'd shouted 'Don't let him past, there's not enough room!' at the cyclist who was overtaking me. He didn't acknowledge I'd said anything (probably thought I was some loony, giving orders to strangers, this is London after all), but he did stay on the right side of the road, and I stayed on the left not far behind him, so the van driver had no chance of bullying his way past with both of us blocking his way.

Looking at the width , or lack of width on that road, you'd have to be a complete twunt to try and squeeze past....oh no wait.

Top gutter hugging in the Streetview as well  :facepalm:

Royal Fail vans particularly like having a go. Obviously taking a position in the middle of the road stops them, but it does take a bit of nerve depending on how aggressive they're being.

And yes, the cyclists in Streetview are fairly typical.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 31 January, 2012, 07:21:43 pm
Wow!
I'd be giving it maximum 'take the lane' along there.

EDIT - Might even blow them a kiss by at the end of the road..... ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 31 January, 2012, 07:33:51 pm
Lordy, that was cold. My knob hurts.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 31 January, 2012, 07:35:13 pm
Quote from: Chris S on 31 January, 2012, 07:33:51 pm
Lordy, that was cold. My knob hurts.
TMI
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 31 January, 2012, 07:40:45 pm
I found the cold bracing rather than uncomfortable. The winter top Feline got me kept me nice and warm under my jacket, only my fingers really complained, everything else was fine. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 31 January, 2012, 07:44:52 pm
I would get very annoyed if someone were tailgating me along there, enough to upload to YouTube, roadsafe and contact employer as well. Still blown away by the gutter nutters in that streetview.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 31 January, 2012, 08:04:36 pm
Quote from: Gandalf on 31 January, 2012, 07:10:20 pm
Top gutter hugging in the Streetview as well  :facepalm:

They're presumably hoping that the Google car will squeeze past, so they get to appear in close-up on Streetview...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 31 January, 2012, 08:37:50 pm
I have just been treated appallingly.  And I've only come on here to rant and try to calm down. FUCK!

That's it. (and breathe)

Second half of my commute weren't 'alf fast though, in my pedal stamping anger.  I'm a bit of ashamed at my language during the incident, (Something to do with front bottoms) but I was really scared, and later amazed that I hadn't managed to snap both brake cables.

Hey ho.  Better now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 31 January, 2012, 09:12:25 pm
Quote from: Basil on 31 January, 2012, 08:37:50 pm

Second half of my commute weren't 'alf fast though, in my pedal stamping anger.

When our well-regarded boss was laid-off in a malicious incident a year ago, I was so angry about it I did my fastest ever climb up the local test-piece hill.

( 17 mins from the Clatterin Brig to the top, 2 mins faster than my normal 19 mins grind.   Yes, I know, not in with the proper fast boys, but that's my speed! )
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 31 January, 2012, 09:22:34 pm
Basil, whatever happened, I am very glad you are still with us.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 31 January, 2012, 09:25:24 pm
Quote from: iddu on 31 January, 2012, 11:38:24 am
Dozen 11<x<13 deer, in the mist, crossing Ridgeway at top of Ashbury  :)

Fenton...................
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 31 January, 2012, 10:01:41 pm
Left late for work this morning which meant Tue fastest ride in for a couple of months.  Not too bad on the way home but the descent of boot hill was cccccold.
Must oil my creaky chain  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bloomers100 on 31 January, 2012, 10:50:41 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 31 January, 2012, 07:35:13 pm
Quote from: Chris S on 31 January, 2012, 07:33:51 pm
Lordy, that was cold. My knob hurts.
TMI

I think in such circumstances nob can exist without the silent 'k'. (It's smaller see.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 31 January, 2012, 11:25:19 pm
Quote from: Chris S on 31 January, 2012, 07:33:51 pm
Lordy, that was cold. My knob hurts.
WNBR already? That came around quick ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 31 January, 2012, 11:26:18 pm
Quote from: GruB on 31 January, 2012, 09:25:24 pm
Fenton...................

???
tappity-tap...
Ah! ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 01 February, 2012, 08:06:26 am
Quote from: Chris S on 31 January, 2012, 07:33:51 pm
Lordy, that was cold. My knob hurts.
Rainlegs are your friend in sub-zero cold weather as well as wet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 01 February, 2012, 09:30:41 am
Or decent winter tights.  I find condensation builds behind my Rainlegs if you stop and then start again though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 01 February, 2012, 09:34:59 am
Quote from: TheLurker on 01 February, 2012, 08:06:26 am
Quote from: Chris S on 31 January, 2012, 07:33:51 pm
Lordy, that was cold. My knob hurts.
Rainlegs are your friend in sub-zero cold weather as well as wet.

Despite being colder this morning - probably -4C in the hollows - Willy was just fine. I stuffed a beanie down my longs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 01 February, 2012, 10:45:17 am
Loved the cold dry weather this morning.
The road experience was another matter. Was it bad driving day in east london today? Lots of close overtakes, and very impatient drivers. Was the fact I was wearing reflective sunglasses make me look less human, and more roadkill like?
Got bullied out of primary position after a red light in eastway by a salesman-looking guy who accelerated as if I wasn't there. Have him a few good evil looks through the sunglasses, which made him gesticulate. 3 Traffic lights later, typical converstation
 him: you shouldn't have been in the middle of the road!
 me: am entitled to it.
 him: you may be but you should be riding on the side.
Green, he sped off to the right on to the A12. Didn't have to argue further, and to explain his behaviour was unacceptable ( and the fact that I ended up ahead of him despite having been overtaken 500m back)

Seriously considering a helmet cam now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 February, 2012, 10:48:01 am
What a headwind!  I'm not used to riding straight into it on the way to work.  The asthma is playing up, too, which was annoying.

I managed a decent speed in the end, but I paid for it in the legs. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 01 February, 2012, 10:53:46 am
Quote from: clarion on 01 February, 2012, 10:48:01 am
What a headwind!  I'm not used to riding straight into it on the way to work.  The asthma is playing up, too, which was annoying.

I managed a decent speed in the end, but I paid for it in the legs. :-\

I’m glad you said about the wind.

I actually got off at one point and checked both wheels were spinning freely, it felt like a brake was stuck on or something! Admittedly the bolt-upright position of the Gazelle doesn’t help in a headwind

Still, I need to get back quickly tonight, so that should be ok… :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 01 February, 2012, 12:29:35 pm
Out of the house on time today so took it easy on the way in.  Oiled the chain before leaving & filled up the bidon only to leave it on the side  :facepalm: so I was a tad thirsty by the time I got to work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 01 February, 2012, 12:50:38 pm
Worst commute of the year so far. Did 57km as usual yesterday, but with a spin (RPM) class at lunchtime. Headwind, -2c and nothing in the tank made the commute miserable this morning. My nethers were frozen, and the thawing of said region was a new type of pain for me. I still feel cold now, and haven't brought in a suitable longsleeved top, so will be skipping my planned 10km run at lunchtime. Will be doubling up on the tights tomorrow and running then instead.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 01 February, 2012, 04:20:45 pm
Headwind was tough but then got overtaken by a tractor and got a lovely 40kph motor paced ride into the wind from Bramley to Beech Hill - doubleplusgood  ;D ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 01 February, 2012, 04:54:52 pm
Quote from: Chris S on 01 February, 2012, 09:34:59 am
Quote from: TheLurker on 01 February, 2012, 08:06:26 am
Quote from: Chris S on 31 January, 2012, 07:33:51 pm
Lordy, that was cold. My knob hurts.
Rainlegs are your friend in sub-zero cold weather as well as wet.

Despite being colder this morning - probably -4C in the hollows - Willy was just fine. I stuffed a beanie down my longs.

a beanie as a cocksock.Bragging or complaining ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 01 February, 2012, 06:55:04 pm
My bum was cold today, I think I'll wear baggies over the bibtights tomorrow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dinamo on 01 February, 2012, 07:48:11 pm
Quote from: Gandalf on 01 February, 2012, 06:55:04 pm
My bum was cold today, I think I'll wear baggies over the bibtights tomorrow.

Worked for me  :thumbsup:

Considering the cold weather plenty of cyclists on tonights commute, l even saw one in SHORTS !!!!

Had a great tailwind all the way in, will have to adjust my route home in the morning to avoid 20kms ride into that cold wind  :hand:

EDIT : Minus 5 this morning !
Rode home via Abbots Leigh and over the Clifton Suspension Bridge.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 02 February, 2012, 08:39:49 am
Yaaar - Crinklebeard ;D (Composed of... :hand:)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 02 February, 2012, 08:51:31 am
It was cold, but not that bad.  According to my rubbish computer, temperature was in the -1.5℃— -1.8℃ range.  Saw ice in two places.  First was expected - wise depression/hole in road that has either filled with water or has it sloooowly bubbling up from below.  Just walked my bike along the pavement for a bit them back on to the road.  Second was similar, but smaller - was able to cycle around.  The problem with both of these is the long strip of ice stretching down the road from the source.

Looking forward to the ride back home tonight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 February, 2012, 09:26:49 am
.For sale: Vintage bellows.  Almost antique.  I've been trying for years to use them as lungs, but have had to admit defeat.  Non-functional - spares/repair or display only.  No warranty.  Sold as seen.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steve GT on 02 February, 2012, 09:33:01 am
This morning was the coldest of the year so far, -8 deg C. :o
At least the roads were lovely and dry.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 02 February, 2012, 09:33:21 am
I rode m'bike.  Only a mile or so, but it's a start.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steve GT on 02 February, 2012, 09:47:27 am
Well done Kat. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 February, 2012, 09:50:13 am
:)  Odd day to start on, but it's valid.

Amazing how dry it was out there.  Cold as a cold thing that's feeling chilly, but almost no ice on the roads.  Just some in the gutters at Balham Hill, and a surprising heap of broken ice just before the Oval junction, spread across the lane.  Not sure what that was about.

The headwind turned it all into a bit of a trudge, but it was nowhere near as slow a ride as it seemed, and I added a short loop. 

Despite gasping like a steam train about to conk out, I did enjoy the ride :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jasper the surreal cyclist on 02 February, 2012, 11:54:54 am
I have not been able to find either my ful length bib tights or my full length stockingy thingies. As a result there is a gap of bare (but hairy) skin between my kneewarmer and my sock. Not usually a problem, but this cold stuff may be killing some skin cells. And that is going to look proper daft.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 02 February, 2012, 12:35:23 pm
Ate a big dinner last night, and a big bowl of oats this morning. Felt better today, despite it being -3c and my tyres being white with frost most of the way in. Running a big calorie deficit in these temps might be why I'm feeeling the cold so badly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: keeks on 02 February, 2012, 04:42:18 pm
Fecking cold at 07:00 with a head wind , went up the hill at the back of Portsmouth to keep warm , but by the time I got to work 08:00 ish hands were blocks of ice. Have to say the sunrise was brill  :)

Ride home will be a tail wind , so hopefully hands will be useable by the time I get home .

Reckon it will be a bike and train scenario tomorrow , it will be just too cold.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lotum on 02 February, 2012, 05:21:50 pm
Minus 21 degrees C in Helsinki today, and the headwind felt like someone was pushing knives into my cheeks. So it perhaps wasn't a surprise that I didn't see any other cyclists on the morning commute. But on the ride back home I saw a bareheaded female cyclist! :o And I had always thought that I was 'tough'...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JJ on 02 February, 2012, 06:26:46 pm
Quote from: DrMekon on 02 February, 2012, 12:35:23 pm
Ate a big dinner last night, and a big bowl of oats this morning. Felt better today, despite it being -3c and my tyres being white with frost most of the way in. Running a big calorie deficit in these temps might be why I'm feeeling the cold so badly.

My big mistake today was letting my youngest (just 4) ride his toddler bike the 3 miles to nursery, with me running alongside.  Once we got out onto the farm tracks, there was a proper cold nagging east anglian headwind blowing, and he just got colder and colder and less cooperative, in spite of my putting my spare clobber onto him.  I ended up pushing him the whole way, and it took him about 20 minutes to warm up enough to let go of me on arrival  :-[.  Somewhat late to work as a result.

Looking forward to a proper E.A.tailwind on the way back  :thumbsup:  He's gone in the car with his mum.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 02 February, 2012, 08:57:26 pm
Quote from: JJ on 02 February, 2012, 06:26:46 pm
Quote from: DrMekon on 02 February, 2012, 12:35:23 pm
Ate a big dinner last night, and a big bowl of oats this morning. Felt better today, despite it being -3c and my tyres being white with frost most of the way in. Running a big calorie deficit in these temps might be why I'm feeeling the cold so badly.

My big mistake today was letting my youngest (just 4) ride his toddler bike the 3 miles to nursery, with me running alongside.  Once we got out onto the farm tracks, there was a proper cold nagging east anglian headwind blowing, and he just got colder and colder and less cooperative, in spite of my putting my spare clobber onto him.  I ended up pushing him the whole way, and it took him about 20 minutes to warm up enough to let go of me on arrival  :-[.  Somewhat late to work as a result.

Looking forward to a proper E.A.tailwind on the way back  :thumbsup:  He's gone in the car with his mum.

Awww bless!
They have a greater surface area to mass area at that age and certainly do get cold faster.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 03 February, 2012, 08:42:46 am
Stopping at the last set of lights before arriving at the office, I discovered that my (rear, fortunately) brake was no longer functional, with zero movement in the lever.  Luckily this time the cable appears to have frozen with the brake off, unlike last time....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 February, 2012, 08:53:38 am
Lotum, hearing about conditions in Helsinki puts our weather in perspective!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 03 February, 2012, 09:04:07 am
Not Helsinki conditions but still -7 in Bramley this morning.  Bone dry, not a spot of ice on the roads.  Brill, except for that brief moment when the circulation came back into my toes in the shower in the office.  I bought Campag overshoes for the XXXL fitting to get round my clodhopping feet but they don't cut the mustard in keeping feet warm.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 03 February, 2012, 10:03:26 am
Quote from: clarion on 02 February, 2012, 09:50:13 am
:)  Odd day to start on, but it's valid.

.....and a surprising heap of broken ice just before the Oval junction, spread across the lane.  Not sure what that was about.

Goods vehicles can build up a surprising amount of water on top of their trailers/ boxes. In this weather it turns to ice and occasionaly this launches itself off the trailer roof when negotiating thrns or under braking. Another reason to wear a helmet?  ;)

Today is 2 weeks since my off when riding home. My shoulder still hurts like a bastard at times so I haven't ridden since.

Hopefuly I will be able to try again next week.........
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tom_e on 03 February, 2012, 10:13:14 am
Quote from: JJ on 02 February, 2012, 06:26:46 pm
Quote from: DrMekon on 02 February, 2012, 12:35:23 pm
Ate a big dinner last night, and a big bowl of oats this morning. Felt better today, despite it being -3c and my tyres being white with frost most of the way in. Running a big calorie deficit in these temps might be why I'm feeeling the cold so badly.

My big mistake today was letting my youngest (just 4) ride his toddler bike the 3 miles to nursery, with me running alongside.  Once we got out onto the farm tracks, there was a proper cold nagging east anglian headwind blowing, and he just got colder and colder and less cooperative, in spite of my putting my spare clobber onto him.  I ended up pushing him the whole way, and it took him about 20 minutes to warm up enough to let go of me on arrival  :-[.  Somewhat late to work as a result.

Made this mistake earlier this winter too.  Once she started getting cold, just got less and less energy and slower.  Bad daddy planning.  Mummy had told her to put tights on underneath trousers, but she said no.  To avoid losing face, me and mini_e1 agreed that we would not tell mummy that she was right when we got home.  Mummy was definitely not right.

Next time we said it was too cold to ride, she complained but not too much. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 03 February, 2012, 10:22:41 am
Quote from: Lotum on 02 February, 2012, 05:21:50 pm
Minus 21 degrees C in Helsinki today, and the headwind felt like someone was pushing knives into my cheeks.

-6 here and my colleagues look at me sympathetically.  Lotum - what do you do/wear to ensure you don't need to count figures and toes when you reach your destination?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hulver on 03 February, 2012, 11:59:44 am
Went past a Land Rover Discovery on fire quite near home this morning.
Quite an impressive amount of smoke.

There was an RAC van there as well.

Cold this morning, do fuel lines break in the cold?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 03 February, 2012, 12:18:54 pm
Quote from: hulver on 03 February, 2012, 11:59:44 am
Went past a Land Rover Discovery on fire quite near home this morning.
Quite an impressive amount of smoke.

There was an RAC van there as well.

Cold this morning, do fuel lines break in the cold?

Didn't you stop for a warm  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 03 February, 2012, 12:23:45 pm
-7 this morning, however no frost on the railway bridge up my lane  ???
Once I'd warmed up it wasn't too bad, took it relatively steady & used a buff to cover my chin and jaw line which meant I was still able to speak when I got to work  ;)

Kit list:
Woolie Boolie socks
Endura overshoes
Assos bib shorts & leg warmers
Craft vest
Helli base layer
Assos 851 jacket (don't usually wear this but no other long sleeve jersey dry)
Altura race cape
Sealskinz gloves
Nike winter hat
Buff

Roasty toasty  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 03 February, 2012, 12:41:00 pm
That was the coldest commute for me so far.
-10.5 but not sure what it would be with the added wind behind that temp.  :facepalm:
I wore the wrong gloves.  Hands were like blocks of ice but without any feeling.  Oh the pain when I got into the shower.
Could've done with a cock sock too  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 03 February, 2012, 12:46:26 pm
Dunno what the temperature was this morning but the Alfine was frozen this morning in the sense that no gear changing worked

It was stuck in gear #6 though which is a nice middling ratio, only bit I walked was the very steep bit

Hands were a bit non dexterous at the railway station but my bike ride is only 15 minutes now, hardly time to get properly frozen up  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 03 February, 2012, 04:33:41 pm
Some helpful advice from a Transport for London press release on the capital's preparations for snow (my italics):

The winter operations plan agreed by TfL and its partner agencies also ensures that the Barclays Cycle Hire scheme will be open for users during all normal operational conditions although it is left to users to decide whether they wish to make journeys by bike.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 03 February, 2012, 04:40:03 pm
and another line from the same release:

TfL and London's boroughs will be working to ensure, where possible, that the four current Barclays Cycle Superhighways remain safe to use during the winter months.

"remain"????

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 03 February, 2012, 07:30:48 pm
I will be back to commuting by bike with a vengeance on Thursday.

You're all now scaring me shitless. I just Don't Do ice. I've become phobic- as in: a disproportionate reaction, generally of the shaking, rigid, tearful kind.

How in merry hell1 am I going to get to work?

Wibble.



1: obviously hell would be fine, no ice there according to the snowballs
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 03 February, 2012, 07:32:39 pm
Do you have spiked tyres boab?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cycleman on 03 February, 2012, 07:35:59 pm
recumbent trike ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 03 February, 2012, 07:39:57 pm
Are taxis an option, until the weather improves?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 03 February, 2012, 07:58:10 pm
At present there is only ice where there is standing water, or running water from burst pipes etc.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 03 February, 2012, 08:43:08 pm
Quote from: Lindagordinho on 03 February, 2012, 07:32:39 pm
Do you have spiked tyres boab?

I haven't. But someone has brought round his gay ice bike Clicky (http://www.ivytodd.com/images/IMAG0120.jpg) for me to try and see if I can ride it even with the hard shiny stuff.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 03 February, 2012, 09:49:47 pm
Was pretty chilly when I set off this morning, -4C (-7C with windchill). If anything though I was overdressed, apart from my toes, cheeks and unmentionables I was sweaty rather than cold, however the bits that did get cold were freezing. Much the same for the ride home though I don't have the temps for that ride.

I'd forgotten how much more work the ice bike is. The roads were dry enough that I'd probably have been fine on the nicer bike but didn't know that it would have been ok when I set off. Plus it only takes one sneaky bit of ice to ruin your day. Was only about five/ten minutes slower over the 16 miles each way so that's good.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 03 February, 2012, 10:00:30 pm
On the way home I managed to overtake someone.  That is a first for this commute.  First person I've seen going in the same direction as me that is.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 04 February, 2012, 01:13:24 am
I used Vince the Ice/Snow bike today, ready for anything, so of course it's bone dry out there, and only a little brisk.  The thermometer says it's -2.5°C outside, so it's not really living up to the forecast (which is -4 to -5°C).  I was fairly warm when I got in, even though I can't really go all that fast on Vince, since he's single-speed, and even not that high a gear (so he'll work OK cycling up a moderate slope covered in ice and snow).

Ah well, maybe they'll be some proper cold conditions tomorrow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lotum on 04 February, 2012, 10:54:05 am
Quote from: Nuncio on 03 February, 2012, 10:22:41 am
Lotum - what do you do/wear to ensure you don't need to count figures and toes when you reach your destination?

Upper body (from inside out): Merino wool L/S shirt, synthetic fibre L/S cycling jersey, wool sweater, windproof jacket, reflective vest. I've noticed in very cold weather that many 'windproof' cycling jackets aren't windproof at all.

Lower body (from inside out): Cycling shorts, Merino wool longs, pad-less long cycling pants, windproof (Gore-Tex clone) longs.

Head: Two synthetic fibre caps on top of one another (covering also the ears) + jacket hood. This leaves the face open, which can be a almost unbearably painful in a strong headwind. I sometimes wear a woollen balaclava, but I generally try to get by without one, as it tends to interfere with my breathing (an icy 'beard' develops around the mouth & nose).

Hands: Two pairs of wool mittens with leather fur mittens on top. Mittens are a LOT warmer than gloves which have individual compartments for each finger. Products marketed as 'winter cycling gloves' are completely useless at -20°C.

Feet: Merino wool socks, high (covering the ankles) heavy-duty trekking shoes (I use MTB-style flat pedals in winter). I have a couple of pairs of so-called 'winter cycling shoes' with cleats but these are really intended for warmer climates, where 'winter' means rainy weather and temperatures of around +5°C or above.

At -20°C (or below) I can cycle for about 2 hours before my toes begin to freeze, no matter what I wear  on my feet. It seems that cycling doesn't stimulate blood circulation in the feet in the way walking or running does. The solution is to walk the bike for a couple of hundred meters, by the end of which the feet are warm again.

The biggest problem with riding longer distances is that drink bottles freeze very quickly. Gatorade, for example, turns into a chunk of ice in about an hour at -20°C.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 04 February, 2012, 10:58:24 am
*is in awe*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lotum on 04 February, 2012, 11:00:07 am
Quote from: clarion on 03 February, 2012, 08:53:38 am
Lotum, hearing about conditions in Helsinki puts our weather in perspective!
Clarion, it works both ways: I envy you guys for your warm winters!  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 04 February, 2012, 11:11:28 am
Quote from: fboab on 04 February, 2012, 10:58:24 am
*is in awe*

Me too!

I promise to never complain about it being a bit cold unless things reach -20 here as well.

You are quite something lotum!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lotum on 04 February, 2012, 11:26:51 am
No need to be in awe, guys. I once had a p*ncture at -32°C. Had to remove my mittens to be nimble-fingered enough to be able to do something (anything!). A gale was blowing, and I found out that I just couldn't keep my hands out of the mittens for more than 30 seconds at a time, after which several minutes of warming-up was required for the pain to ease and to get my fingers moving again. So, after a number of pathetic attempts, I threw in the towel and walked the bike home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 04 February, 2012, 11:49:47 am
I just wish the weather would arrive.  Right now it is damn cold -2 but 'feels like -7' but although clouding over a bit, no sign of rain or snow.
So as I have to leave soon, I have to make a decision on which bike to take.
It has to be the MTB with snow tyres in case when I finish it has either snowed, rained to ice or both - so I can get home.
I could always sleep in a cell but knowing my luck I would get a rowdy neighbour all night.
I will be well annoyed if it is still fine when I finish work as that means I have ridden in on the slow bike for no reason.  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 04 February, 2012, 12:32:46 pm
I was in Helsinki a couple of weeks ago, a positively balmy -12 IIRC. The free Metro paper on the subway had a front page picture of people on a frozen lake, and a page 2 picture of a couple of lads in their swimming trunks lying down on towels in the snow sunbathing. I was surprised that I was apparently the only one in the office wearing what I'd consider sensible walking boots and thick socks to the office - everyone else seemed to be slithering around outside in normal office style leather shoes  ???

I do take delight in telling my colleagues (especially the ones in Jyväskylä and Oulu) how warm and light it is here  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 04 February, 2012, 12:41:34 pm
Quote from: Lotum on 04 February, 2012, 10:54:05 am
The biggest problem with riding longer distances is that drink bottles freeze very quickly. Gatorade, for example, turns into a chunk of ice in about an hour at -20°C.

Ever tried using a Camelback hydration pack strapped to your back?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 04 February, 2012, 06:48:01 pm
It takes a lot to freeze a water bottle.  I left my bottle on the bike yesterday in the shade after the -7C commute in and the -5 commute back.  The ice freezes next to the skin of the water bottle forming an insulating layer for the remaining contents.  I've only once got a water bottle to freeze solid - on last year's After Dinner Dart - that took about 8 hours of subzero.  But the neck freezes up a lot quicker.   8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 04 February, 2012, 06:52:39 pm
IME, I've had bottles freeze after only half an hour at -16.
Not frozen solid, but iced-up enough to clog up the sooky bit enough to make it un-useable.

Same but worse for camelback things.
Kids tried these on some ski trips.
The pack itself is fine, but the tube and sook-piece freezes unless you continuously keep the contents moving by sooking often.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 04 February, 2012, 06:57:27 pm
I left home yesterday morning at 0515 in -10.5 with a fresh water bottle - 750ml but only filled to 500ml.  Bike left out all day but under cover of a large vehicle car port.
When I got back to the bike the bottle had mainly turned to ice.
By the time I got home it was solid.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 04 February, 2012, 07:26:20 pm
I had a bottle freeze on a Beacon RCC club run in the winter of 1992.  While I was moving it stayed liquid, but I left it outside at the cafe stop (it being too cold to really need water) and it was a solid block when I cam out again.  I don't know the temperature that day, but it was probably below -5oC.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lotum on 04 February, 2012, 07:36:32 pm
Quote from: teethgrinder on 04 February, 2012, 12:41:34 pm
Ever tried using a Camelback hydration pack strapped to your back?

I've tried both Camelback and Ergon products. While the bulk of the drink will stay in liquid form in the pack, if worn under one's clothes, a relatively long piece of narrow uninsulated tube (with only a small volume of liquid inside) is left exposed to the cold, and, as pointed out by Feanor, will freeze quickly. A layer of ice/frost develops inside the tube restricting the liquid flow until after a while the flow stops completely. Once it's frozen, no amount of squeezing the hose or sucking or blowing will help.

The ball valve in the Ergon mouthpiece is particularly prone to freezing quickly (within minutes), but the angled Camelback mouthpiece isn't much better. I'm vaguely aware that insulated tubes are available for some new Camelback models, but I haven't tried those. However, I doubt that the insulation is thick enough for 'extreme' conditions.

The best compromise I've found is to use a number of flat 0.3-litre plastic bottles hidden under my clothes. Admittedly, I then have to stop to drink.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 04 February, 2012, 07:43:28 pm
I was surprised not to get frozen bottles on my ride back from North Wales last weekend - for the last three years I've had that, including last year when I was trying an insulated bottle (which also froze on my aborted AUK AGM run that year).

I've been tempted to try a camelbak under my clothes, but that would be with the tube under the clothes too - so having to stop to drink but using body heat to stop the tube and valve freezing. I'm not convinced that the insulated tube kits you can get would really keep them ice free in very cold weather.
 Plan B this year for my Welsh trip was a decent steel vacuum flask on a bike buddy, but as the forecast was relatively mild I stuck with one YACF bottle and my insulated one for ease of drinking.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lotum on 04 February, 2012, 07:54:24 pm
Quote from: MattH on 04 February, 2012, 12:32:46 pm
I was surprised that I was apparently the only one in the office wearing what I'd consider sensible walking boots and thick socks to the office - everyone else seemed to be slithering around outside in normal office style leather shoes  ???

Not all Finns are terribly smart. In fact, some of them can be positively stupid.  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 05 February, 2012, 09:15:50 am
Lotum, I'm impressed you can still bend enough to straddle the bike after putting on all those clothes.

Have you considered neoprene overshoes (bootees)?  They pretty much solve the cold (and wet) feet problem when worn over MTB (non-perforated) cycling shoes and thick socks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 05 February, 2012, 09:25:39 am
I'm not sure I'd call the Camelback idea a defeat yet.
How about running the tube down one of your sleeves and having the nozzle at the cuff of your glove?
I've never tried a Camelback in the cold. I can manage 30miles without a drink. Then I stop in a warm cafe for a hot drink.
I think I'd rather have a thermos flask with tea or coffee if I'm going to have to stop for a drink anyway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 05 February, 2012, 09:39:18 am
The Iditabikers seem to cope with Camelbacks under their clothes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 05 February, 2012, 09:58:48 am
I've got a Cameback that I use for skiing, it's got a neoprene sleeve on the tube to stop the drink from freezing
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lotum on 05 February, 2012, 10:07:37 am
Quote from: rogerzilla on 05 February, 2012, 09:15:50 am
Lotum, I'm impressed you can still bend enough to straddle the bike after putting on all those clothes.

Have you considered neoprene overshoes (bootees)?  They pretty much solve the cold (and wet) feet problem when worn over MTB (non-perforated) cycling shoes and thick socks.

All those layers are thin and fit me rather snugly. Wearing them doesn't really affect my mobility at all (but then, I may not be terribly flexible to start with). The only limitation is that wearing multiple mittens makes my hands clumsy (another good reason to have D/T shifters).

IMHO, neoprene overshoes are a definite no-no in subzero weather. They make one's feet sweat, offering no way for the sweat to escape, and you absolutely want to avoid that. Even at -5°C. Under summer conditions it is possible to have wet-but-warm feet, under 'arctic' winter conditions it is not.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 05 February, 2012, 10:28:36 am
Twas a long commute home.  Mrs G got worried as I'd left at 2215 and was still not home by midnight, then 0030, finally rolling in at 0100.  Doh. 
Met the snow plough coming out of Marlborough.  The roads were bad.  I was going to wait for him to go ahead but he was having trouble freeing the guide wheels so suggested I press on.  I got to the top of the hill okay and then pressed on.  The road got worse and worse, the slowest part of my journey.  The snow plough caught me up 2 miles later but turned around a short time later and went back the other way. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 06 February, 2012, 09:34:22 am
Pootled slowly, avoiding the slush at the sides of the road. Slight heart-in-mouth moment when I hit a slippery slushy patch while filtering, but the fat tyres, long wheelbase and general ponderousness of the Dutch bike meant nothing much happened.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 06 February, 2012, 10:01:42 am
Coming home between 2300 and 0030 was well icy on any untreated roads.  Surprised me a bit.  Unclipped the right foot quite a lot and crawled under brakes down many hills, but luckily no issues and no offs.  I had a close call when I was daydreaming but no actual off.
Fixed was great fun and excellent when I'm tired as the momentum helps to keep going however I must get some mudguards for the MTB then I wouldn't have to risk it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 February, 2012, 10:04:53 am
I rode on on the Winters this morning.  Felt really heavy.  In fact, I could have done almost all the ride on normal tyres without any worries, but it was fun to get over the ice/snow/slush out of our road, across Mitcham Common and in the car park at work.  I was surprised that I managed an average of nearly 22kph.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Hot Flatus on 06 February, 2012, 10:08:29 am
No ice on roads, but very slippery for anyone following me. Heavily productive expectoration after last week's cold.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: corshamjim on 06 February, 2012, 12:29:46 pm
I discovered this morning that no the rear rack alone isn't enough to stop me from getting mud up my back so yes I do need to put the rear mudguard back on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 06 February, 2012, 12:39:19 pm
Took an entirely main road route into work, therefore avoiding the unmelted snow all over the cycle paths and back streets. Fastest commute of the year to date.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 06 February, 2012, 12:41:11 pm
Wasn't going to ride in today but the lady I get a lift in from is pulling a sickie so has no choice in the end.  The roads were ok if a little wet, if i'd known they were all clear of snow I'd have road in to begin with.  I wouldn't have been over an hour late for work either :demon:

Main roads back tonight as I reckon the lanes will still be pretty bad.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 06 February, 2012, 12:41:29 pm
Swapped the slicks for knobbles on the mtb last night, and fitted lights.

I was so disappointed by the lack of proper/any snow on the roads that I got off the A52 at the Wyvern and followed the riverside path into Derby for the last miles or so.

Snow, and lots of it: loose, virginal, crunchy stuff; soft, slippy-sloppy stuff; hard, white, skiddy/bumpy stuff - Woohoo! :thumbsup: ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 06 February, 2012, 01:17:54 pm
As usual, none of the cycle paths across the commons were gritted, so although the Marathon Winters are pretty grippy, a crowned road surface covered ins lippery, rutted slush is still a pretty challenging surface to ride on!

Award for moton muppetry must go to the nice lady in the BMW who executed a lovely, slow motion overtake on albert Bridge giving me loads of room and then carried out a lovely pull in, back into the traffic queue, by which time I'd pulled out behind her, so that as she pulled in, I overtook her (and the rest of the queue) to end up at the head of the lights.  Honestly, some people see a bike and automatically overtake!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moultonaught on 06 February, 2012, 02:40:25 pm
My first new commute into the 'other' office that I'll be working in some of the week. A massive 1.25 miles to the station, ridden in 'civvies'.

Eventually the commute will include 4 miles at the other end of the train journey, but before I can do that I have to retrieve the Bromptom from the darkest recesses of FiL's barn in deepest darkest rural Kent, (which is not near home)

Nice to ride this morning even if it was only a short ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 February, 2012, 03:00:58 pm
Don't have to be home early tonight, so where should I go to get some (relatively traffic-free) ice riding between Elephant & Castle & Sutton?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 06 February, 2012, 03:13:35 pm
Quote from: clarion on 06 February, 2012, 03:00:58 pm
Don't have to be home early tonight, so where should I go to get some (relatively traffic-free) ice riding between Elephant & Castle & Sutton?
There's not much left round Brixton; even the park which was lethal this morning is completely clear on the paths this afternoon. You could try the Wandle trail?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 06 February, 2012, 03:46:25 pm
Quote from: Butterfly on 06 February, 2012, 03:13:35 pm
Quote from: clarion on 06 February, 2012, 03:00:58 pm
Don't have to be home early tonight, so where should I go to get some (relatively traffic-free) ice riding between Elephant & Castle & Sutton?
There's not much left round Brixton; even the park which was lethal this morning is completely clear on the paths this afternoon. You could try the Wandle trail?

Think that'll be thawed too - I'm about half a mile away as the crow flies from the Wimbledon/Earlsfield bit and the pavements at least are dry
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 06 February, 2012, 05:49:10 pm
Quote from: Butterfly on 06 February, 2012, 03:13:35 pm
Quote from: clarion on 06 February, 2012, 03:00:58 pm
Don't have to be home early tonight, so where should I go to get some (relatively traffic-free) ice riding between Elephant & Castle & Sutton?
There's not much left round Brixton; even the park which was lethal this morning is completely clear on the paths this afternoon. You could try the Wandle trail?

I guess it really depends to what extent not having to be home early applies. 

I've heard it said that the Wandle Trail s actually a Stygian wormhole to another dimension, from which there is no return.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 06 February, 2012, 05:58:02 pm
Pseudo-commuted early today as I'd forgotten the battery light for the SNO bike, so would be riding with "be seen" lights only.

There has been a slow thaw today, which has meant swapping snow and slush for large slushy puddles. As soon as twilight started approaching, this lot started to sparkle alarmingly. The Marathon Winters just kept rolling along - but there was no doubt I was riding on ice - a couple of over-confident moves made the back wheel step out a little. Studded tyres are not a panacea.

Almost came off on a bend when the front wheel bogged down into some soft slushy hardpack. This is my weakness. I have no off-road skills to speak of, so panic and go rigid when a wheel decides to do its own thing. I know I should relax and just "go with it", but that's easier said than done!

I suspect the tyres will really earn their keep in the morning when all that water will be solid ice.

Oh - and I was introduced to the rather alarming situation where you know the road is glassy ice, but clearly the motons around either don't know, or don't care - and continue to drive fast and close  :facepalm:.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 06 February, 2012, 06:31:17 pm
I walked the last ten yards to the bike shed, and I'm glad I did.  It was hard to stay upright on foot and two maintenance men were frantically trying to clear the ice.  Must have been a frost pocket, because it was fine at home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 06 February, 2012, 09:01:39 pm
Went out to the Stetchworth Roundabout on the A1303 on the way home, almost 5x my normal commute distance and didn’t find any ice. Got gritted.

The motorists in Cambridge were on their usual form. Single oncoming car ahead? Why, I’ll just overtake and swerve back in in front of the cyclist just in time rather than easing off for a couple of seconds.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 February, 2012, 09:29:01 pm
Quote from: clarion on 06 February, 2012, 03:00:58 pm
Don't have to be home early tonight, so where should I go to get some (relatively traffic-free) ice riding between Elephant & Castle & Sutton?

I popped across the river and along Embankment, then crossed Chelsea bridge to go round Battersea Park.  Not much ice :(

Up the hill to Clapham Common.  No ice at all. :(

Down to Tooting Common, where there was a bit.

Then home.

The roar and hum of the tyres was kinda hypnotic.  Well, at least I've done the running in (albeit after riding on the snow).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 06 February, 2012, 11:00:01 pm
Grrr.

A loud hissing noise, about 4 miles from home.

Followed by the discovery that the mini pump that I carry with me for emergencies was buggered.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 07 February, 2012, 12:27:25 am
Popped a Zipvit gel for the journey home.  Worked a treat but my sugars are now 4.2 at bedtime, so I am now eating  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 07 February, 2012, 09:15:41 am
Well. That was a hoot. I really love my Marathon Winters. Without them, I would be in A&E or the fracture clinic by now.

It was a lovely sunrise:

(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7169/6834645195_906f2f0149.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40735552@N05/6834645195/)
IMAG0297 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40735552@N05/6834645195/) by Pelotonhound (http://www.flickr.com/people/40735552@N05/), on Flickr

But most of my 30km pseudo-commute looked like this:

(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7167/6834648297_8a80233ea5.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40735552@N05/6834648297/)
IMAG0300 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40735552@N05/6834648297/) by Pelotonhound (http://www.flickr.com/people/40735552@N05/), on Flickr

or mostly this (you'll have to take my word for it - there is NO liquid water in this photo):

(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7010/6834651007_f00da0d744.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40735552@N05/6834651007/)
IMAG0302 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40735552@N05/6834651007/) by Pelotonhound (http://www.flickr.com/people/40735552@N05/), on Flickr

Where the slush was frozen, the ride felt a little uncertain; the tyres would bounce around and it would take a fraction of a second or so for the studs to reassert themselves.
But mostly, it was smooth glaze ice - probably 1 to 4mm thick, and I felt completely secure riding on this at up to 20km/hr. Any faster than this and there was a tendency for the front wheel to twitch rather alarmingly.

Cornering was of the slow - lean the body not the bike - variety. Braking was fine - and only led to one skid; which merely cut some nice grooves in the ice:

(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7006/6834654277_660e9fc8ee.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40735552@N05/6834654277/)
IMAG0305 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40735552@N05/6834654277/) by Pelotonhound (http://www.flickr.com/people/40735552@N05/), on Flickr

A postman stopped me at Wortham Hall - he couldn't believe I was managing to stay upright. I showed him my secret - but he still thought I was barking. I couldn't really argue with him TBH.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 07 February, 2012, 09:38:13 am
The good: a mother stopped her kids from running out in front of me today; as I passed them I smiled and said thanks, and they all smiled back and chorused ‘You’re welcome!’, it was sweet. Also a pedestrian noticed me slowing for his zebra crossing, and smiled and waved for me to keep going.

The bad: going round the roundabout at the north end of Lambeth bridge, a car driver looked straight at me and pulled out. He’d been creeping anyway and I’d been ready for him to do something stupid, so a sharp brake meant I avoided hitting him and luckily no one ploughed into the back of me. I wish I’d yelled or something though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Karla on 07 February, 2012, 11:27:11 am
Well that was fun.  I acquired what I think is the last Marathon Winter on this side of town yesterday, so I fitted it to the front.  Riding though snow this morning, the front was gripping but the back was fishtailing - I think I now know what it's like to be a speedway rider :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 07 February, 2012, 11:38:15 am
The Snow Studs were pure overkill for yesterday's commute.  I did try them on an off-road section of CS3 (covered in snow and slush, of course) and they were fine, but it was hard work.  On the way home I promised myself I'd inflate them to full pressure for the rest of this week's commuting.  (ICBA to swap tyres on a school night.)

Pumped them up this morning, went down to open the door, *BANG* - the rear went.  No problem, I have a second bike.  Just as I'm carrying the Hewitt out the door *BANG* goes the front of the commuter.  I'm guessing operator error in both cases. 

Took the short route as I was pressed for time and practically flew in.  Swapping to a lighter bike makes such a difference.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 07 February, 2012, 01:28:23 pm
Yes, my snow studs were also a bit pointless for my commute yesterday.  I had a little slush on the way in, but by the time I cycled home last night, it wasn't all that cold, and virtually all the snow had gone.  There was a little snow on the grass around the commons, but nothing significant, and nowt on the cycle paths themselves.

I think I need to pump the tyres up as hard as possible, they were at about 60psi yesterday, and still noticeably hard work, although the weight of Vince also doesn't exactly help.

I tram/train/tube-d in today, because I needed to pick up a parcel from East Croydon, so it was easier and faster to just continue in on the train then.  Back onto Vince tomorrow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: plum on 07 February, 2012, 07:15:05 pm
To the red haired cyclist[?!] I often see along the Stratford Rd then navigating along the way to Golden Hillock, if you're reading this for god's sake give it up. Your lack of skills, control, road sense, insane risk taking are a danger to yourself and to any road user around you. Your idiot attitude to pavements means that even pedestrians aren't safe. Hopefully your off in this morning's rush hour, in the midst of all the buses, lorries, cars and cyclists, will have frightened some sense into you.

So long as no one else gets hurt frankly I couldn't care less. But to do it all with a child in that seat on the back sends a chill down my spine. This morning you were lucky to be on your own on that bike, but eventually Darwin will have his way, and do you really want your whole family to go down at the same time?

Again; give it up, get a bus pass before it's too late.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 07 February, 2012, 09:29:31 pm
That was a cold commute home. My fingers were stinging inside my winter gloves. Brrrrrrr.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 07 February, 2012, 09:31:54 pm
My poxy Airzound exploded as i inflated it, I'm deaf in my left ear.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 07 February, 2012, 09:33:56 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 07 February, 2012, 09:31:54 pm
My poxy Airzound exploded as i inflated it, I'm deaf in my left ear.

While I do sympathise, this is my POTD.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 07 February, 2012, 10:26:40 pm
Quote from: plum on 07 February, 2012, 07:15:05 pm
To the red haired cyclist[?!] I often see along the Stratford Rd then navigating along the way to Golden Hillock, if you're reading this for god's sake give it up. Your lack of skills, control, road sense, insane risk taking are a danger to yourself and to any road user around you. Your idiot attitude to pavements means that even pedestrians aren't safe. Hopefully your off in this morning's rush hour, in the midst of all the buses, lorries, cars and cyclists, will have frightened some sense into you.

So long as no one else gets hurt frankly I couldn't care less. But to do it all with a child in that seat on the back sends a chill down my spine. This morning you were lucky to be on your own on that bike, but eventually Darwin will have his way, and do you really want your whole family to go down at the same time?

Again; give it up, get a bus pass before it's too late.

Or better still, learn some vital skills?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 07 February, 2012, 11:07:08 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 07 February, 2012, 09:29:31 pm
That was a cold commute home. My fingers were stinging inside my winter gloves. Brrrrrrr.

Same here.  Fancy Gore Bike wear gloves may be as waterproof as a duck's back, but a lacking insulation. Even with silk liners my fingers were aching and frozen after 12km. I broke the journey at a friend's house for a welcome cup of coffee and put my gloves on the radiator. The remainder of the journey passed in toasty goodness.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 08 February, 2012, 06:17:23 am
I had to break out the Spesh Sub Zeros for this very reason.  They do keep out the cold but feel very restrictive.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 08 February, 2012, 10:38:02 am
Those Sub Zeros look good. I need to get some. I have some cheapo "skiing gloves" for days like this, but they aren't great and failed to keep my hands warm yesterday evening. I couldn't feel my thumbs for about an hour after I got home. Also it felt like icicles were forming inside my nostrils.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 February, 2012, 10:40:09 am
A cold commute this morning, but I was well wrapped up, so it was no problem.  I set off earlier than usual, with Butterfly, so went via her work then the back way through to E&C.  A pleasant 25km :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 08 February, 2012, 11:41:26 am
Icy today. Forgot to mention, they've been using the salt spraying quad on the busway cyclepath.

(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7150/6837426465_d852147047_z.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 08 February, 2012, 05:30:33 pm
Had a lovely surprise when I got to work this morning....looked in my saddlebag (Rixen Kaul Contour Magnum) to retrieve my drawstring bag with my van keys, mobile, multtool, spare innertube etc    :o  empty as a pocket oh bugger.
Cycle home again, assuming I'd forgotten to put it in...nope.  :sick:

There is a happy ending though.  I had obviously forgotten to zip my saddlebag up and it had fallen out.  Polish builder chappie working up the road had found it and phoned the last number I had dialled, which luckily was the Mrs.

I'm going to drop by with some beer tokens in the morning.  Very relieved.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 08 February, 2012, 05:33:04 pm
How nice is that! And of you to take him some beer. :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adam on 08 February, 2012, 06:39:08 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 07 February, 2012, 09:29:31 pm
That was a cold commute home. My fingers were stinging inside my winter gloves. Brrrrrrr.

Even colder today I think.  I ended up wearing my skiing gloves.  Nice & toasty although probably not a good idea if I had to commute in London, as they'd be a bit hard to manage trying to brake quickly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 08 February, 2012, 06:42:10 pm
Quote from: Adam on 08 February, 2012, 06:39:08 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 07 February, 2012, 09:29:31 pm
That was a cold commute home. My fingers were stinging inside my winter gloves. Brrrrrrr.

Even colder today I think.  I ended up wearing my skiing gloves.  Nice & toasty although probably not a good idea if I had to commute in London, as they'd be a bit hard to manage trying to brake quickly.

I've been wearing ski-gloves for the last month or so, and the braking is fine.   It's the fiddly little inside lever of STI shifters that are a bit of a problem.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 08 February, 2012, 06:44:07 pm
I met a guy at the lights today on some sort of Mtb.  He was wearing no gloves at all!
I asked him if his hands weren't cold.  He said "Yes, freezing."  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 08 February, 2012, 06:57:33 pm
Sealskinz lobster claw gloves here - they are the warmest and best winter gloves I've yet used.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: plum on 08 February, 2012, 07:08:47 pm
Quote from: Adrian on 07 February, 2012, 10:26:40 pm
Quote from: plum on 07 February, 2012, 07:15:05 pm
To the red haired cyclist[?!] I often see along the Stratford Rd then navigating along the way to Golden Hillock, if you're reading this for god's sake give it up. Your lack of skills, control, road sense, insane risk taking are a danger to yourself and to any road user around you. Your idiot attitude to pavements means that even pedestrians aren't safe. Hopefully your off in this morning's rush hour, in the midst of all the buses, lorries, cars and cyclists, will have frightened some sense into you.

So long as no one else gets hurt frankly I couldn't care less. But to do it all with a child in that seat on the back sends a chill down my spine. This morning you were lucky to be on your own on that bike, but eventually Darwin will have his way, and do you really want your whole family to go down at the same time?

Again; give it up, get a bus pass before it's too late.

Or better still, learn some vital skills?

Nah anyone who cycles that badly that often will never get the it out of their system. It's time the nanny state stepped in for the sake of her children and moved all sharp objects and machinery out of her reach. Like those people who fail their driving test 65 times but keep driving illegally because they assume it's everyone else who is at fault.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: phantasmagoriana on 08 February, 2012, 08:07:06 pm
Walked again today (tomorrow the bike's coming back out) but I'm pretty sure I saw (or rather, heard) two different cyclists with studded tyres today! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 08 February, 2012, 08:11:02 pm
Quote from: Basil on 08 February, 2012, 06:44:07 pm
I met a guy at the lights today on some sort of Mtb.  He was wearing no gloves at all!
I asked him if his hands weren't cold.  He said "Yes, freezing."  ::-)

My son rode home from school today and when I asked why his hands looked like beetroots he announced he had left his gloves behind in his locker. He was also wearing 3/4 length chinos with bare legs  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 08 February, 2012, 08:30:16 pm
Quote from: phantasmagoriana on 08 February, 2012, 08:07:06 pm
Walked again today (tomorrow the bike's coming back out) but I'm pretty sure I saw (or rather, heard) two different cyclists with studded tyres today! :thumbsup:

If you're travelling anywhere near between Croydon and South Ken, it'll be me. ;D

Mainly because the Kaffenback needs some significant engineering, but using it when there's a risk of ice is a benefit.  Of course, it hasn't really been properly icy, so it's mostly just giving me a better workout, because it's damned heavy frame!


I noticed today, where they've painted new bicycle symbols and a stop line on the very northern end of the Clapham Common cycle path, the bits where cyclists go onto the cycle path are relatively fresh and cleanly white, whereas the bits where cyclists leave the cycle path are very grubby after only a few weeks of use.  That does tell you how dirty the cycle paths are, presumably due to the lack of heavy car use and it's effect in keeping the road surfaces relatively clean.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 08 February, 2012, 10:20:45 pm
Quote from: Feline on 08 February, 2012, 08:11:02 pm
Quote from: Basil on 08 February, 2012, 06:44:07 pm
I met a guy at the lights today on some sort of Mtb.  He was wearing no gloves at all!
I asked him if his hands weren't cold.  He said "Yes, freezing."  ::-)

My son rode home from school today and when I asked why his hands looked like beetroots he announced he had left his gloves behind in his locker. He was also wearing 3/4 length chinos with bare legs  :o

PBP 2019 - best young rider? He's cracked stage 1: cycling through f-ing awful weather.  Now you need to introduce him to sleeping in phone boxes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 08 February, 2012, 10:43:47 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 08 February, 2012, 10:38:02 am
Those Sub Zeros look good. I need to get some. I have some cheapo "skiing gloves" for days like this, but they aren't great and failed to keep my hands warm yesterday evening. I couldn't feel my thumbs for about an hour after I got home. Also it felt like icicles were forming inside my nostrils.

d.

Sub zeros are great. I lost one of mine, and have stubbornly refused to replace it because the moment I do, I'll find the missing one. Instead I got some of the grippy winter sealskinz (rubbish, even with merino liners), and then the Pro Xpert Winter WP that are supposed to be good down to -10c (no chill down to -3c with merino liners, but below that my index finger gets very cold on fast sections). Neither are as good as the sub zeros, despite their bulkiness. In their defence, the Pros are very thin for how much warmth they provide.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 08 February, 2012, 11:14:14 pm
On the way home, I waited for a car driver to do a three point turn, in a typically cack handed manner, and as he straightened up, he rolled down his window and asked me if I knew where a particular road was.

The name was familiar, but after a moments thought I couldn't remember where it was, so I apologised to him, saying I'd seen it around, but couldn't remember where.  He thanked me for that, and drove off in the opposite directions and I continued on my way.  Ten seconds later I went past a sign marking the road he had just asked about, but he was too far away for me to be able to attract his attention by this point!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 08 February, 2012, 11:28:03 pm
Quote from: TimO on 08 February, 2012, 11:14:14 pm
On the way home, I waited for a car driver to do a three point turn, in a typically cack handed manner, and as he straightened up, he rolled down his window and asked me if I knew where a particular road was.

The name was familiar, but after a moments thought I couldn't remember where it was, so I apologised to him, saying I'd seen it around, but couldn't remember where.  He thanked me for that, and drove off in the opposite directions and I continued on my way.  Ten seconds later I went past a sign marking the road he had just asked about, but he was too far away for me to be able to attract his attention by this point!

You do realise that, when he finally finds it (which he might have done by now) and realises that he is only a few yards away from where he spoke to you, his first conclusion will be "that fucking cyclist sent me all round the houses to make me look like an idiot"?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 08 February, 2012, 11:33:01 pm
I think it depends what sort of car he was driving.  If it was an Audi Q7 4.2 DTI Quattro S-Line, for example, such treatment might be well deserved.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: phantasmagoriana on 08 February, 2012, 11:33:40 pm
Quote from: TimO on 08 February, 2012, 08:30:16 pm
Quote from: phantasmagoriana on 08 February, 2012, 08:07:06 pm
Walked again today (tomorrow the bike's coming back out) but I'm pretty sure I saw (or rather, heard) two different cyclists with studded tyres today! :thumbsup:

If you're travelling anywhere near between Croydon and South Ken, it'll be me. ;D


That'd be quite a commute for me! This was in York. ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 08 February, 2012, 11:36:01 pm
Quote from: Feline on 08 February, 2012, 08:11:02 pm
Quote from: Basil on 08 February, 2012, 06:44:07 pm
I met a guy at the lights today on some sort of Mtb.  He was wearing no gloves at all!
I asked him if his hands weren't cold.  He said "Yes, freezing."  ::-)

My son rode home from school today and when I asked why his hands looked like beetroots he announced he had left his gloves behind in his locker. He was also wearing 3/4 length chinos with bare legs  :o

I only tried the no gloves thing in freezing conditions once. Never again. I was about your son’s age at the time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 08 February, 2012, 11:44:52 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 08 February, 2012, 11:33:01 pm
I think it depends what sort of car he was driving.  If it was an Audi Q7 4.2 DTI Quattro S-Line, for example, such treatment might be well deserved.
Or this sort of (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9NsdekhO_do) treatment
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 09 February, 2012, 07:19:45 am
That bar steward recently got some sort of payout from the police for that. Totally undeserved, but the police spokesperson did make it clear it was cutting their losses for the ongoing litigation this chap had brought, or something along those lines IIRC.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 09 February, 2012, 09:05:00 am
Last night turned into something of an epic, accelerating away from mini roundabout while drafting a WVM there was an almighty bang and the rear started squirreling around, don't know what I hit but it shredded the rear tyre, fortunately WVM behind was wide awake and I got into the kerb ok. Required use of two boots to get the thing back on the road. Crosssed under the railway bridge at Flixton and a very happy border collie came bounding around the corner and kept pace with me, after a mile or so as I approached the main road I stopped, so it stopped, sat down and looked at me as if to say "what we stopped for?", so i turned around and headed back the way I came, got near the bridge dog looks at me, then charges off into a driveway and someone opens the front door and in the dog goes with a look like "thanks mate, that was fun"

This morning overtook someone in shorts and t-shirt,  :o , and they were proper short  gym shorts, mind you by the look of pain on his face I think he might have regretted that choice
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 09 February, 2012, 09:29:26 am
Quote from: citoyen on 08 February, 2012, 10:38:02 am
Those Sub Zeros look good. I need to get some. I have some cheapo "skiing gloves" for days like this, but they aren't great and failed to keep my hands warm yesterday evening. I couldn't feel my thumbs for about an hour after I got home. Also it felt like icicles were forming inside my nostrils.

d.
I have a pair you can have for not much if they fit you (just a bit too small for me). I'll send you a pm.

Paul.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Diver300 on 09 February, 2012, 10:32:22 am
Quote from: Wendy on 09 February, 2012, 07:19:45 am
That bar steward recently got some sort of payout from the police for that. Totally undeserved, but the police spokesperson did make it clear it was cutting their losses for the ongoing litigation this chap had brought, or something along those lines IIRC.

Watching the video, it seemed to me that the violence from the police was over the top as all that he had done was to take too long to stop.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 February, 2012, 10:51:20 am
Quote from: Paul on 09 February, 2012, 09:29:26 am
Quote from: citoyen on 08 February, 2012, 10:38:02 am
Those Sub Zeros look good. I need to get some. I have some cheapo "skiing gloves" for days like this, but they aren't great and failed to keep my hands warm yesterday evening. I couldn't feel my thumbs for about an hour after I got home. Also it felt like icicles were forming inside my nostrils.

d.
I have a pair you can have for not much if they fit you (just a bit too small for me). I'll send you a pm.

Paul.

Pair of icicles? ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 09 February, 2012, 11:05:48 am
Max speed: 45.3kph.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 February, 2012, 11:47:11 am
Yesterday, I left work at lunchtime, and pootled home via various stops.  I was hoping to use the afternoon to get some miles in, but I had a slow p*nct*re. :(

I took the tube out last night, but couldn't find a leak anywhere.  I inflated it and left it overnight, but it kept its air.  Checking the tyre didn't show anything of concern.

Meanwhile, I swapped in a repaired (and checked) tube, and this morning found it had lost some of its pressure, topped it up and rode off.

10km later, on Upper Tooting Road, it was flat. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 09 February, 2012, 04:03:23 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 08 February, 2012, 10:38:02 am
Those Sub Zeros look good. I need to get some. I have some cheapo "skiing gloves" for days like this, but they aren't great and failed to keep my hands warm yesterday evening. I couldn't feel my thumbs for about an hour after I got home. Also it felt like icicles were forming inside my nostrils.

d.

I don't know why but, I read this as it felt like testicles were forming inide my nostrils  :o

As for commuting, I am girding my loins ready for my first ride since my recent crash. I bought the bike and gear to work in the car yesterday morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 09 February, 2012, 06:08:56 pm
Quote from: TimO on 08 February, 2012, 08:30:16 pm
Quote from: phantasmagoriana on 08 February, 2012, 08:07:06 pm
Walked again today (tomorrow the bike's coming back out) but I'm pretty sure I saw (or rather, heard) two different cyclists with studded tyres today! :thumbsup:
If you're travelling anywhere near between Croydon and South Ken, it'll be me. ;D

Or, if between Streatham and South Ken, possibly me!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 09 February, 2012, 07:22:32 pm
Me.
On this (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40735552@N05/6823179893/).
Singing along to this (http://youtu.be/DHgDKadPPc0).
Max Speed 42.2

And feeling AOK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: plum on 09 February, 2012, 07:35:36 pm
Quote from: alexb on 09 February, 2012, 06:08:56 pm
Quote from: TimO on 08 February, 2012, 08:30:16 pm
Quote from: phantasmagoriana on 08 February, 2012, 08:07:06 pm
Walked again today (tomorrow the bike's coming back out) but I'm pretty sure I saw (or rather, heard) two different cyclists with studded tyres today! :thumbsup:
If you're travelling anywhere near between Croydon and South Ken, it'll be me. ;D

Or, if between Streatham and South Ken, possibly me!!!

Mine make enough noise you can probably hear me from brum. Though not for much longer the rate the studs are falling out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 09 February, 2012, 07:54:42 pm
Quote from: fboab on 09 February, 2012, 07:22:32 pm
Me.
On this (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40735552@N05/6823179893/).
Singing along to this (http://youtu.be/DHgDKadPPc0).
Max Speed 42.2

And feeling AOK.

\o/
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 09 February, 2012, 07:59:02 pm
On my blast between Kings Cross and Paddington this evening my maximum speed was 46.1kph. I think that was in the Euston underpass, I could only maintain about 30kph up the other side. I’m a bit lighter than normal today Cambridge, beforehand, was a bit gridlocked in the centre of town. I went that way as no sno-tyres meant I have been avoiding all the cycle paths and minor road cycle routes in favour of roads that would normally be gritted.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 February, 2012, 08:20:49 pm
Quote from: clarion on 09 February, 2012, 11:47:11 am
Yesterday, I left work at lunchtime, and pootled home via various stops.  I was hoping to use the afternoon to get some miles in, but I had a slow p*nct*re. :(

I took the tube out last night, but couldn't find a leak anywhere.  I inflated it and left it overnight, but it kept its air.  Checking the tyre didn't show anything of concern.

Meanwhile, I swapped in a repaired (and checked) tube, and this morning found it had lost some of its pressure, topped it up and rode off.

10km later, on Upper Tooting Road, it was flat. :(

As I was saying when I was so rudely interrupted by a series of meetings ;D

So I pumped the tyre up again, and hoped it was going to get by.  Flat again by Balham Hill.  OK, so I decided to get as far as Clapham, buy a new tube and check the tyre more carefully.  But I was out of air again by Clapham Common, and it seemed that none would stay in.  Coasted as best I could to Apex.  No Schwalbe in the right width (which, tbf, is the narrowest Marathon Plus come in, so not a lot of demand), so I bought the very cheapest cover he had in 25: A Specialized Espoir.  It, er, keeps the inner tube from running on the tarmac, I suppose.

I changed tube & tyre on the pavement without getting my tyre levers out, which is a first for a Schwalbe for me.  The D+ was shockingly thin, but I didn't even bother investigating it.  It went straight in the bin.  A few strokes of the Lezyne, then I wheeled the bike inside to use the track pump.  Apex have a Park, which has a gauge you could see from outer space.

That's when I discovered I'd lost a glove.  Not the day for that at all. :(

Oh sod it, I need some more gloves, so I bought a cheap Altura pair, which were much warmer than their thickness might suggest.

I got to work a couple of minutes late, but with a surprisingly high average speed, given how much of the ride had been on underinflated tyres ???

This evening, I managed to get away a shade early to catch the bank in Borough High St.  That always allows me a bit of creativity in choosing a route home, but I pootled through to Clapham and checked back into Apex, who had found my missing glove, which cheered me up.  Then home. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 09 February, 2012, 11:16:34 pm
The winter tyres are so slow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 10 February, 2012, 05:48:07 am
Quote from: GruB on 09 February, 2012, 11:16:34 pm
The winter tyres are so slow.

Tell me about it.  I'm currently running 26 X 1.75  Marathon Plus.

Huge difference from my summer commuting tyres, 26.1.6 Sports Contact.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 10 February, 2012, 09:14:32 am
Got home in one piece last night. Just under 3 weeks off the bike and riding gingerly makes for a 2 minute longer commute over just under 7 miles.

One wheel drive came into it's own again this morning. I had to stay seated and change to the granny ring combo to get up Quarry Wood Road as standing caused spinning out in the slush and packed SNO.

I certainly missed the riding and, what I realised was an important part of my morning ritual, the refreshing shower on arrival at work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 February, 2012, 10:17:10 am
Well, I've not commuted today yet.  I'm just steeling myself to go out on the winter tyres again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 10 February, 2012, 10:37:46 am
Above freezing here this morning but very damp and a dusting of snow on the fields. Felt like hard work. Not sure why.

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 10 February, 2012, 11:54:20 am
Quote from: plum on 09 February, 2012, 07:35:36 pm
Quote from: alexb on 09 February, 2012, 06:08:56 pm
Quote from: TimO on 08 February, 2012, 08:30:16 pm
Quote from: phantasmagoriana on 08 February, 2012, 08:07:06 pm
Walked again today (tomorrow the bike's coming back out) but I'm pretty sure I saw (or rather, heard) two different cyclists with studded tyres today! :thumbsup:
If you're travelling anywhere near between Croydon and South Ken, it'll be me. ;D

Or, if between Streatham and South Ken, possibly me!!!

Mine make enough noise you can probably hear me from brum. Though not for much longer the rate the studs are falling out.

None of mine have fallen out, been used two winters running.
Very rarely get used on ice. It's a bit like taking condoms to a party, you'd want to have them if you need them!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 10 February, 2012, 11:56:59 am
Quote from: Gandalf on 10 February, 2012, 05:48:07 am
Quote from: GruB on 09 February, 2012, 11:16:34 pm
The winter tyres are so slow.

Tell me about it.  I'm currently running 26 X 1.75  Marathon Plus.

Huge difference from my summer commuting tyres, 26.1.6 Sports Contact.

I'm running Marathon Winter studded in comparison to Sports Contact, when I swap them over I have to make a conscious effort to brake as it feels like I have no rolling braking effect at all on the Sports contacts!!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Rimnod on 10 February, 2012, 12:04:00 pm
Trundling along the last stretch of my commute, using the cycle lane, crossing a 'Y' type junction intending to follow the main road off the right when I became aware of a Volvo Estate passing me and indicating left.  As driver was drifting towards me and I banged on the roof of the car as a warning. 

The driver corrects her position in the road, moves ahead of me and comes to a stop.  Alighting from the vehicle the lady driver shouts as I pull in along side the car, "I nearly hit you..............you idiot. Its your fault, you were riding too fast!"   :o

Ho Hum   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 10 February, 2012, 12:52:47 pm
A third of my Birthday miles done this morning.  I'll add another diversion onto my route home tonight to make up the other 26miles I need  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 10 February, 2012, 01:31:13 pm
When I redressed my wounded leg last night I thought,  "that's the last time."  I should of done it today but it was freezing so I used the train assisted commute for one time more.  Five bikes this morning on the train.   There were at least eight  on Tuesday (four in bike space, two in coach c entrance near bike space and two in adjacent coach b entrance).  Pity there is only a place for two in the official way. four fit in the space and still allow the refreshment trolley to pass. Three got off the train at Bridgend, 1 definitely got on the train and one might of made it if he was lucky (entering the station as I was leaving).  So we get as many as eight in the official way I wonder how many they get in the busy direction. (towards Cardiff). I will not try to catch the quick train this evening the bike bay is normally filled with other luggage on Friday 5.25 from Bridgend. Its annoying because the luggage space not suitable for bikes will be empty. The smaller bags could go up on the racks. The fast train also encourages naughtiness when I arrive at Cardiff and get on a valley train before 6pm which I have been told is not allowed.

I plan to be back to full length commuting on Monday.




Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 10 February, 2012, 01:38:23 pm
I was minded to call someone's boss. But I made do with overtaking him in traffic, instead.
 Got a respectful nod from the bin man in his lorry, clearly admiring my ability to #mtfu and wear 3/4s. He wasn't to know it was a laundry-based decision.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 10 February, 2012, 08:33:20 pm
Twas slushy going in and very very cold coming home.  A little slippy in places but my 'winters' coped with it well  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: corshamjim on 10 February, 2012, 08:39:19 pm
Quote from: GruB on 10 February, 2012, 08:33:20 pm
Twas slushy going in and very very cold coming home.  A little slippy in places but my 'winters' coped with it well  :thumbsup:

Wot GruB said!   :thumbsup:  That slush got kicked up by the back wheel though so on the way in I stuck to about 6 mph.

I'll be fitting the rear mudguard on the winter bike tomorrow.  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 10 February, 2012, 08:41:32 pm
I fitted the new commuter mudguards to the MTB with Marathon Winters installed - thank goodness or else I would have been soaked by the time I got to work today  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 10 February, 2012, 08:53:51 pm
Roads dry and hard here. Apparently it's -5.

I've never been so cold on a bike. I had to wear my work trousers on top of my tights. Probably my own fault for wearing 3/4s without the witchy long socks. My feet were so cold they started to hurt.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 10 February, 2012, 09:05:24 pm
Quote from: fboab on 10 February, 2012, 08:53:51 pm
My feet were so cold they started to hurt.

You say that as if it's a rarity, in which case my feet are jealous.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 10 February, 2012, 09:50:13 pm
Quote from: fboab on 10 February, 2012, 08:53:51 pm
My feet were so cold they started to hurt.

I was wearing the right kit and my feet and hands were hurting by the time I got home.  Averaging 12.6 mph didn't help.  Coming down the several big hills at 20+ mph really brought on the chilling effect too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 11 February, 2012, 01:29:00 am
Even with the cold I had a much nicer rides to and from work today than the day before. Much numptiness in the morning yesterday made me wonder whether it was all worth while and then the worsening of the weather in the evening was uncomfortable and unnerving (very few drivers seemed to be accounting for the poor visibility and occasionally sketchy road conditions. I was clipped by a mini-cab in Dulwich). Today I set off walking to catch the train and realised that it was milder than I expected and went back home to get changed and get on the bike. Well worth while. Met up with a friend briefly on the way in. I was over-geared and whipped past him at 30mph. He was under-geared and tore away from each set of lights, we're working in the same place and working all hours so each had to make as swift a progress as possible. He got into work before me. ::-)
Rode most of the way home with friends this evening on a round-about route to drop people off through south London. Very cold, but not much of a problem until 25mph where the pain of windchill was a bit of a wall.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 11 February, 2012, 11:03:29 am
Can't say that I've really suffered with cold hands or feet yet this winter.  Once on the way home my fingers were very cold for about the 1st 5 miles but after that they were ok again.  Just been using sealskinz gloves & bought some woolie boolie socks which are excellent but do need drying out while I'm at work.  Anyways made my commute up to 40 miles yesterday so that was my birthday miles + 1 for hell of it  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 13 February, 2012, 08:44:40 am
Whoops.  I was wearing way too much this morning.
I was aware that the temperature had risen somewhat, but I hadn't realised by how much.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 13 February, 2012, 09:57:37 am
Heading in today, there is one road that has a pavement one side, a row of parked cars the other, and just enough room (car width + 4 feet) for a car and bike to pass.

Car comes the other way, wheels in gutter. Loads of room between her car and the parked cars. I slow down and stop. She stops. I point to the gap and indicate that she should proceed. She mumbles something inaudible (who goes on about cyclists with headphones when cars render their drivers essentially deaf.) I wait. She waits.  Eventually I get fed up and go on her inside, through the gap with my arms stretched wide in the 'you could fit a bus through here' pose indicating the gap between her and the parked cars.

Some people really haven't a clue how big their car is.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 February, 2012, 10:26:30 am
I had a good ride in this morning.  You can tell it's half term.  But, although some roads were delightfully clear, there were some inexplicable bits of congestion - particularly around Tooting.  No obvious cause at all.

Nonetheless, it was quite fast, and had a few interesting incidents.  One Northern guy on a bomb-proof urban singlespeed expressed interest in the S3X, so I explained it.  He said that he preferred to avoid fixed in the city.  Personally, I prefer it.  Horses etc.  I filed behind him after the junction, but he insisted I went past because I was faster. ;D

Clapham was a fun zoom, with a clear run on the lights for a change.  As I crested the rise at the bottom, I noticed out of the corner of my eye a chap mending a puncture.  I wasn't in a position to stop and offer help/tools if required, so rode on, feeling a bit guilty.  Not for long, though, as, about 100m further on, conveniently placed by a bit of dropped kerb, was a woman in the same situation.  I asked if she had everything she needed, and it appeared she had, as she was pumping up her tyre, but it turned out that she'd mended the tube twice already, but it was still leaking air, and she was just trying to keep enough in there to get her to the next place she could pump it up, and limp to work.  I gave her my new tube (still in its box, and bought from Apex in Clapham last week).  She was stunned with gratitude, but it's just a karma thing.  I hope she'll pass on a favour too.  I've had enough from other folk.

So I rode in to work feeling a bit lighthanded, because I didn't have two of my everyday essentials: tube and water bottle.  Yes, I'd forgotten to put the bottle on the bike :-[

Never mind, it was fun this morning, even if I literally did a :facepalm: at one point when I was the only one of seven cyclists who stopped at a red light. :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 13 February, 2012, 10:55:11 am
I thought it was still pretty cold.

and I forgot a hairbrush
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 13 February, 2012, 11:01:00 am
Good on you for giving away the tube, Clarion. I bet she appreciated it.

I don’t carry a spare tube on the Gazelle because getting the wheels off is a Right Pain (both front and rear) and not something I want to do roadside, so I just carry a pump and repair kit to do an in-situ repair, with the plan to walk home if it is as cold as it has been lately, because I know my fingers will seize up if I take my gloves off. I’ve guiltily passed a couple of people recently because my fingers were already painful in the cold, and they seemed to be doing ok anyway (it’s not like my fettling skills are legendary).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tom B on 13 February, 2012, 11:08:43 am
Quote
I hope she'll pass on a favour too.  I've had enough from other folk

I've found that using the above words makes it easier for people to accept favours  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 13 February, 2012, 12:05:39 pm
Nice & mild this morning so back to wearing a gilet instead of a boil in the bag jacket.
Had a tailwind too  :)  Hoping it dies down or turns around for the ride home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 13 February, 2012, 12:36:12 pm
Four pieces of good news
Finally I have resumed my full commute.  The knee still looks horrible but it is closed now.
Sunrise is around 7.30 so it easy to get out.
Half Term make most roads quieter.
The weather is looking good for the next few days.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 14 February, 2012, 07:26:34 am
Really must get mudguards for my ice bike. I was very mucky when I got in last night. It's getting the muddy water in the eyes that concerns me most though seem to have got away with it this time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: corshamjim on 14 February, 2012, 07:55:11 am
My new Tortec Reflector mudguards did the job very nicely on the way home yesterday.  The front one is a fair bit longer than some other brands so it extends nice & close to the ground to prevent splashing up on to the bottom bracket.  They were easy to fit tidily too.

(http://www.zen146624.zen.co.uk/pictures/Cycling/2012/tortec-front.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 14 February, 2012, 08:03:14 am
I've got those on my new bike.  The reflective strip looks effective.  I knocked against something when I wheeled the bike out of the garage this morning and couldn’t work out what the rattle was until I saw that the mudguard QR had come out. I was a bit fumbly putting them back in, but less so than had it been last week at -6.

More people commuting on their bikes is all fine and dandy until it means that I have to queue for a shower.


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: seraphina on 14 February, 2012, 09:13:13 am
Halfway through my commute I realised I had forgotten my socks  :facepalm: Apart from that, *much* milder. Which is nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jimini on 14 February, 2012, 09:32:35 am
Quote from: seraphina on 14 February, 2012, 09:13:13 am
Halfway through my commute I realised I had forgotten my socks  :facepalm: Apart from that, *much* milder. Which is nice.

T.M Lewin opposite Monument station make a fortune out of me for that very reason. Five pairs in 2012, thus far!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 14 February, 2012, 10:26:10 am
Stayed up to do a bit of fettling last night to transform the trusty steed from singlespeed CX mode to fixed commuter mode, and then managed to get up reasonably early today, as a result of which, I was able to do the longer version of my commute for the first time since before Christmas - 14 miles instead of 3-4 miles (and another 14 miles to look forward to on the way home tonight). Felt abso-chuffing-lutely brilliant.  :thumbsup:

Only thing is, I can feel some resistance in my pedals, and they aren't spinning freely if I push them with the back wheel off the ground. Suspect some mud has got into the bottom bracket from when I was offroading a couple of weeks ago and it needs dismantling for a deep clean.  :-\

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 14 February, 2012, 10:53:07 am
I saw 2 mice. About 4 miles apart. One near the base of a traffic light on Mitcham Common. The other on the pavement, At the side of the A23 just before it meets the south Circular. It must be spring! :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 14 February, 2012, 01:36:42 pm
First time on the Orange Bling since the fixed-plus-associated-hangers-on ride which ended in the SNO Saturday-before-last.

Due to my maintenance regime (meaning that the bike has lain untouched in the garage since the SNO), the chain is making its bid to match the colour of the rest of the bike. :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 14 February, 2012, 01:48:09 pm
Quote from: jimini on 14 February, 2012, 09:32:35 am
Quote from: seraphina on 14 February, 2012, 09:13:13 am
Halfway through my commute I realised I had forgotten my socks  :facepalm: Apart from that, *much* milder. Which is nice.

T.M Lewin opposite Monument station make a fortune out of me for that very reason. Five pairs in 2012, thus far!

Why not buy a handkerchief from them instead? Then tie a knot in it to remind you to take your socks.  It's got to be cheaper.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 14 February, 2012, 02:46:36 pm
Quote from: rower40 on 14 February, 2012, 01:36:42 pm
Due to my maintenance regime (meaning that the bike has lain untouched in the garage since the SNO), the chain is making its bid to match the colour of the rest of the bike. :facepalm:

Does this mean an n+1 is due?   :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 14 February, 2012, 04:52:33 pm
It must be spring.  I had to stop and take off my buff on the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 14 February, 2012, 05:56:03 pm
Why is it that it is always the people who drive road coloured cars who don't put their lights on when it's getting dusky in the evening?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 14 February, 2012, 06:25:09 pm
Ninjas.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 14 February, 2012, 06:30:06 pm
Quote from: Kim on 14 February, 2012, 02:46:36 pm

Does this mean an n+1 is due?   :D
Only if n = number of chains.  I find the whole process of buying a new bike rather stressful - so many extras to buy, and wiring to install etc.  7 ought to be enough for anyone.  Maybe I should actually, y'know, MEND some of the existing fleet.

Actually, the only ones not in a working state are the 'bents.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 14 February, 2012, 06:32:28 pm
I suppose you could just lock the A-Team in your garage and wait...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 14 February, 2012, 06:54:08 pm
Bloody murderous ride home tonight against a brutal headwind on the climb!
It just got stronger and stronger the higher I got, and by the final 50m I was really struggling to make the summit.

But I got to play Lions-and-Impalas down the other side!

I startled 2 deer in a recently-cleared patch of forest, and they ran parallel to the road, rather than into the woods.  I upped my pace to keep alongside them, and we had a race for half a K or so, till they finally darted into the woods.  I was tempted to go 'ROAAAR!'
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 14 February, 2012, 08:04:27 pm
Cycled to Shoreditch for a meeting and then home, through the junction where Henry Warwick was killed by a coach recently; a ghost bike and flowers/are there. Incidentally I was subject to some really horrible driving from coaches; I'm not sure whether they were deliberately being aggressive with close fast overtakes or whether they were just clueless, but I felt really bullied. They're definitely worse than bus drivers, who are ok the majority of the time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 14 February, 2012, 08:29:30 pm
Videoed some relatively minor, but still dodgy driving on Saturday from a local locksmiths, plus giving me the finger. Put it up, and some of my youtube audience felt fit to send emails and make abusive phone calls to such an extent that the wife of the locksmith felt the need to message me on youtube and ask to have the video taken down. That's not what I intended to happen, so I did.

 :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: seraphina on 14 February, 2012, 08:50:03 pm
Quote from: jimini on 14 February, 2012, 09:32:35 am
Quote from: seraphina on 14 February, 2012, 09:13:13 am
Halfway through my commute I realised I had forgotten my socks  :facepalm: Apart from that, *much* milder. Which is nice.

T.M Lewin opposite Monument station make a fortune out of me for that very reason. Five pairs in 2012, thus far!

Thankfully (I think??) I work on a campus so have to suffer sweaty cycling socks rather than paying for my follies. I keep on meaning to leave an emergency pack at work given my past history includes forgetting hairbrushes, towels, trousers etc...

Ride home was fuelled by work related RAGE and therefore nice and quick.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Crumbling Nick on 14 February, 2012, 08:52:51 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 14 February, 2012, 10:26:10 am

Only thing is, I can feel some resistance in my pedals, and they aren't spinning freely if I push them with the back wheel off the ground. Suspect some mud has got into the bottom bracket from when I was offroading a couple of weeks ago and it needs dismantling for a deep clean.  :-\

d.

Grandmother & eggs territory, but has the chain tightened itself? It happens to me occasionally. It's also easier to check & solve than stripping a b/b.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 14 February, 2012, 09:55:45 pm
I've learned my lesson.  In my spare drawer at work I have 2 x pairs of emergency socks (black - goes with whatever I've brought in, 1 pair of cycling socks (for days when I get drenched on the way in), 1 x emergency neutral tie,  1 emergency shirt (white - goes with anything),  1 x pair pants,  and several inner tubes in varying states of repair.  I work on the principle that I'm unlikely to forget the same item two days running.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 14 February, 2012, 10:12:51 pm
My lucky day today - hit a nasty crater heavily on the Burghfield road and then a rock in a puddle on a flooded road and somehow tyres stayed up so I got home on time on Valentine's night.   ;D  Makes up for all the p$nt$r@ earlier this year.  Lovely tail wind on the way home.  On the way out every traffic light in Reading was green.  Must be half term.   :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 14 February, 2012, 11:28:20 pm
Oh, yes.
I maintain several changes of clothes at work, both work clothes and cycling-home clothes in case of need.

It depends on how long your commute is, too.
I could manage 30 mins in cold wet kit, but tonight I was over 3 hours in a hooting headwind, and I'd have really suffered if I was wet.

Keeping dry is key to keeping warm.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 14 February, 2012, 11:31:35 pm
Quote from: Basil on 14 February, 2012, 09:55:45 pm
I've learned my lesson.  In my spare drawer at work I have 2 x pairs of emergency socks (black - goes with whatever I've brought in, 1 pair of cycling socks (for days when I get drenched on the way in), 1 x emergency neutral tie,  1 emergency shirt (white - goes with anything),  1 x pair pants,  and several inner tubes in varying states of repair.  I work on the principle that I'm unlikely to forget the same item two days running.

And if you run out of shreddies, you can always make a suitable undergarment from a selection of carefully knotted innertubes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 14 February, 2012, 11:38:23 pm
Bugger!  I didn't realise those pictures were available on-line.  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 February, 2012, 10:34:54 am
My commute home was interesting.  Because I didn't have to rush home to feed a lad, and I hadn't done my full commute in the morning, I decided to meet up with Butterfly for a trundle home. 

Bit of time to kill, so I could have done a loop through central londonton, but I decided to go the other way, up and over Camberwell Grove, then through Dulwich and up College Road for teh lulz.  I just wanted to see how far I could get on the fixed, as I've only ever done it with the benefit of derailleur gears before.  Answer: To the top.  Which was nice.  Then back down.  I must have hit a gap in the stream of commuting cyclists, as only one passed me going up the hill - a fast fellow in Dulwich Paragon kit.

Then a meander through to meet Butterfly, where one of her charges explained to me how much he loves his bike, and dinged his bell for me.

Off home, Butterfly showed me an interesting route through the backstreets which cuts out Streatham.  Very pleasant, and such good company, too! :thumbsup:

If TGL is going to be late back tonight (and I think he is), I plan to do a repeat :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 February, 2012, 10:39:06 am
This morning, I left the house early, diverted over Clapham Common, over Chelsea Bridge, and a swift Etape d'Embankment before heading over Blackfriars Bridge for a dash through the backstreets.

On Embankment, there were the usual road bikes, but the fastest chap seemed to be older than me, and was riding a Claud Butler Sierra, which I thought was an ATB, but the tubes looked too thin.  Nonetheless, on a 531 frame and with straight bars, this chap was pushing a big gear and zooming past the 'fast lads'.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 15 February, 2012, 01:01:17 pm
A woman on a mtb on Strand undertook me as I was slowing to pull out around the bus in front that was clearly indicating that it was pulling in to a stop. Then she tried to go past the bus on the left  ::-). Happly the driver was more alert than she was but she still felt it appropriate to let off a volley of abuse  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 15 February, 2012, 01:37:32 pm
Minus 16 a week ago and too warm to cycle with a jacket today, this weather's freaky, I blame all these mobile phones.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 15 February, 2012, 03:02:22 pm
Quote from: Crumbling Nick on 14 February, 2012, 08:52:51 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 14 February, 2012, 10:26:10 am

Only thing is, I can feel some resistance in my pedals, and they aren't spinning freely if I push them with the back wheel off the ground. Suspect some mud has got into the bottom bracket from when I was offroading a couple of weeks ago and it needs dismantling for a deep clean.  :-\

d.

Grandmother & eggs territory, but has the chain tightened itself? It happens to me occasionally. It's also easier to check & solve than stripping a b/b.

The reason for my diagnosis was that I'd noticed the cranks weren't spinning freely when I was cleaning the bike post-offroad session (this was with the chain off, so couldn't have been wheel/chain related) and it seemed to improve after I'd removed most of the dirt. I thought maybe there was some residual dirt that had dried and become sticky since I cleaned it. I did also consider the possibility that I'd set the chain too tight when fitting the fixed rear wheel.

However, whatever it was, it had cured itself by the ride home last night - either the dirt had worked itself loose, or the chain had slackened a bit - and it seems to be fine again today, so we're all good.  :thumbsup:

I may yet decide to strip it for a good clean at the weekend anyway, if I have time - it's an external BB, so the job's not such a big deal as with the old-fangled internal jobs.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 15 February, 2012, 10:36:11 pm
Suicidal wabbits 3 of the little wascles trying to commit hari kari in my wheels  :demon:
Cycle computer borked yesterday  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: welshwheels on 16 February, 2012, 07:47:33 pm
for some strange reason I feel stronger as the week is going on ? ??? And i just clocked over 1500 miles on the mtb since last feb 90% of which has been commuting  :thumbsup: which has saved me roughly over £340 on petrol  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adam on 16 February, 2012, 10:38:27 pm
One from yesterday in fact, but as I was cycling in, a small lorry went past with a lovely smell of Play-Doh, which put a smile on my face.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 February, 2012, 11:00:14 pm
On the commute this morning, I stopped at a red light at Walworth Road, but one RoadWarrior hopped the kerb in a Brunelle-stylee and hammered it like a boss idiot rode like a complete twat at high speed across the pavement, scattering pedestrians.

I caught up with him on Borough High Street, but CBA to express my contempt.  He probably thought he was some kind of fucking hero.  He rode a black fixed with Planet X forks, and had a daft sort of ponytail sticking straight up from the top of his head.  Wanker.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: seraphina on 17 February, 2012, 09:30:03 am
Birds have decided it's officially springtime - there were hoards of chaffinches, tits, blackbirds and robins serenading me on my way in to work. It was also warm enough for mitts, not gloves. I LOVE my commute!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 17 February, 2012, 09:34:31 am
Noticably colder today than yesterday!

The mountain hares don't think it's spring yet, at least the dead one at the side of the road this morning was still pure white.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 17 February, 2012, 12:30:52 pm
Station road in Nether Whitacre is closed to traffic, cycles can still get through so due to the diversions I had approx 4 miles of traffic free roads  :)
Snowdrops, crocuses & daffodils in flower too.  Bloomin legs ache though!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 17 February, 2012, 01:44:07 pm
On the way in this morning I came across ...

Some porn, an abandoned gentleman's magazine of the significantly smuttier than nuts variety.

Left it where it was, didn't think work would take to fondly if I turned up with it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 17 February, 2012, 01:46:04 pm
I felt teh burn.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ianrauk on 17 February, 2012, 02:51:10 pm
Quote from: Adam on 16 February, 2012, 10:38:27 pm
One from yesterday in fact, but as I was cycling in, a small lorry went past with a lovely smell of Play-Doh, which put a smile on my face.

With the small person on the household getting older, he loves Play-Doh and it does have a very comforting smell.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 17 February, 2012, 06:26:00 pm
Saw another cyclist on the hill on the way home tonight!
This is rare enough to warrant a mention.

He was hooting down towards me as I was nearing the top.
I gave a cheery wave, but he seemed grim-faced.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 17 February, 2012, 06:52:31 pm
Fixed my first puncture for a year (crosses self) and got two scalps on the way in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 17 February, 2012, 09:37:52 pm
Brutal. It took me an hour and 45 minutes to get home tonight as I am full of cold. Slowest commute home in years. Am off on leave for 2 weeks and I need it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 18 February, 2012, 02:56:15 pm
I had a rear-tyre blow-out on the way home last night, the tyre had worn through to the casing in one spot and there was an loud pop as it went. I had to put a tyre boot in which I don’t think I’ve ever done before. I was out in the wilds of Cambridgeshire doing a long commute so I was glad I’d installed the flashlight app on my phone.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 18 February, 2012, 08:06:32 pm
Got so wet that I thought I was a fish. Owing to the wet gloves and socks, I think I lost a few fingers on the way home. The shower felt like immersing myself in hot lava.

Nearly got to sit on a BMW bonnet on the way back too. 'Sorry mate I didn't see you.' Evidently. I actually saw him look right at me. I know he was looking at me because his face was illuminated by the two lights on the front of my bike. Despite that, I had the tingle of doom for some reason, so went wide, which saved me a bump. He did at least apologise profusely.

More other sundry impatience. Rain seems to bring out the worst. I don't know why, last I checked, cars had lids. It's me getting wet and cold.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 20 February, 2012, 07:56:28 am
First morning commute this year without lights!
Title: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 20 February, 2012, 08:22:34 am
Left late so had 10 mins to get to the station. I usually take about 12 mins. Did it in 9.40. Still shovelling bits of my lungs back inside my chest half an hour later.

Only just recovered enough feeling in my fingers to type this anyway. Made the mistake of thinking I wouldn't need full gloves today, so only wore mitts. Soon realised my error but didn't have time to stop and change them.

Still, that was an enjoyably fast ride. Maxed out at 56.7km/h on the descent into town, which is always fun on a 65" fixed gear.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 20 February, 2012, 10:08:07 am
WTF is it with cyclists shoving their way past me (and yes, physical contact is made) lately? This one happened while I was stopped behind a flatbed lorry, indicating left, waiting to turn onto Lambeth Bridge, with an absolutely classic little ‘death alley’ up its left side, so I had good reason to be where I was. It’s the way they don’t even acknowledge they’ve touched me. I’m going to get out the screechy voice normally reserved for people who make me go offroad, aren’t I?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 20 February, 2012, 10:13:13 am
Quote from: citoyen on 20 February, 2012, 08:22:34 am
Still, that was an enjoyably fast ride. Maxed out at 56.7km/h on the descent into town, which is always fun on a 65" fixed gear.
Is it just me, or is that a quaint mix of units? ;D
Glad you made your train.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 February, 2012, 10:18:34 am
Good idea, NSTN.

It's an odd day.  Sunshine but still cold.  Not many cyclists out, but behaving like numpties a lot of them.  I waited behind trucks in narrow lanes about three or four times, and saw cyclists scooting past both sides.  None brushed past me, I'm pleased to say, but it was quite alarming.

I could tell that half term holiday has ended, with chaos in Hackbridge with appalling parking, one car zooming away from a parking space without indicating, pulling out to almost hit a child and parent crossing the road.  Crazy.  I had three doors opened in front of me in the space of two hundred metres.  Fortunately, I was just outside the range of the doors, and was keeping my eyes open and looking all round carefully.  But I couldn't have been any further across because of oncoming traffic barging through gaps that happen to be filled by me and at least one car behind.  Why put yourself into such a jam?

Why push past me in a constriction when you have no more than 50m of road clear before a jam (which I then overtook)?  Just why behave like an idiot on the road?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 20 February, 2012, 10:49:29 am
I think they have gritted the cycle paths.  Crunchy. I brought my trailer in full of stuff for taking to the recycling centre at lunchtime. So it wasn't very fast as I was on 67" and the trailer's full.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 20 February, 2012, 10:50:26 am
Quote from: rower40 on 20 February, 2012, 10:13:13 am
Is it just me, or is that a quaint mix of units? ;D

No, not just you - I actually felt quite uncomfortable writing it. But I've only ever learnt to understand gear sizes in terms of gear inches. Really need to overcome that (I've learnt to think of distances in km, and my height and weight in cm and kg, so I should be able to manage it).

What's the SI unit for gears?

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 February, 2012, 10:51:55 am
It'd be metres development.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: plum on 20 February, 2012, 10:54:46 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 20 February, 2012, 10:08:07 am
WTF is it with cyclists shoving their way past me (and yes, physical contact is made) lately? This one happened while I was stopped behind a flatbed lorry, indicating left, waiting to turn onto Lambeth Bridge, with an absolutely classic little ‘death alley’ up its left side, so I had good reason to be where I was. It’s the way they don’t even acknowledge they’ve touched me. I’m going to get out the screechy voice normally reserved for people who make me go offroad, aren’t I?
Alternatively you could save yourself all that stress and modify your own behaviour. Either leave enough room for them to pass or block the gap completely so that they can't barge through. Same as you would do with a car that's coming too close - leaving just the wrong amount of space at a pinch point will always invite trouble.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 20 February, 2012, 11:11:41 am
Quote from: clarion on 20 February, 2012, 10:51:55 am
It'd be metres development.

OK, rather than continue this tangential discussion, I've started a new thread...

http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=56956.0

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 20 February, 2012, 11:37:18 am
Quote from: plum on 20 February, 2012, 10:54:46 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 20 February, 2012, 10:08:07 am
WTF is it with cyclists shoving their way past me (and yes, physical contact is made) lately? This one happened while I was stopped behind a flatbed lorry, indicating left, waiting to turn onto Lambeth Bridge, with an absolutely classic little ‘death alley’ up its left side, so I had good reason to be where I was. It’s the way they don’t even acknowledge they’ve touched me. I’m going to get out the screechy voice normally reserved for people who make me go offroad, aren’t I?
Alternatively you could save yourself all that stress and modify your own behaviour. Either leave enough room for them to pass or block the gap completely so that they can't barge through. Same as you would do with a car that's coming too close - leaving just the wrong amount of space at a pinch point will always invite trouble.

Not in this situation, no. The space available was such that I’d get more determined-to-get-to-the-front cyclists filtering past me on at least one side no matter how I positioned myself. I have only so much width, as do the other cyclists. Unless perhaps I take to sitting astride my bike with my arms spread wide.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 20 February, 2012, 11:48:04 am
That makes me annoyed, NSTN!!! Sorry you have to experience such twunts.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 20 February, 2012, 12:01:19 pm
It’s irritating rather than upsetting. If I wanted physical contact with my fellow commuters I’d get the tube.

What is really interesting is that it only happens when I’m on the sit up Gazelle bike in my normal clothes. I’m pondering why this is. I’ve commuted for years on either the hybrid or the tourer, dressed a bit more like a ‘proper’ cyclist, and it never once happened then.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 20 February, 2012, 12:17:57 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 20 February, 2012, 12:01:19 pm
It’s irritating rather than upsetting. If I wanted physical contact with my fellow commuters I’d get the tube.

What is really interesting is that it only happens when I’m on the sit up Gazelle bike in my normal clothes. I’m pondering why this is. I’ve commuted for years on either the hybrid or the tourer, dressed a bit more like a ‘proper’ cyclist, and it never once happened then.

My girlfriend and I have often discussed this - when she rides her sit-up-and-beg hybrid in normal clothes she gets it far worse than when she is in (more commonly) cycling gear on her drop-bar bike. 

I almost always commute in normal clothes, so can't comment too much on the difference; but I figure it's something to do with the overly-aggressive commuters thinking they are more important and faster than someone (particularly a lady) on a sit-up-and-beg bike - though I get it occasionally even though I am on a drop-bar fixie. 

It is at it's worst if one stops behind a bus/lorry to avoid going up the side (as per your example) - goes to show the message is not getting through if people are willing to push other cyclists out of the way just to put themselves into such a dangerous position.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 20 February, 2012, 01:44:16 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 20 February, 2012, 12:01:19 pm
It’s irritating rather than upsetting. 

Agree, it's very irritating.  And I suspect that there is a degree of snobbery involved, with some assuming that anyone not decked out in full aero kit is going to be a slow rider.  However, I ride fixie with drops, in cycling gear, but I also find that people seem determined to squeeze their way past me at traffic lights, often to plonk themselves across the white line, in front of the car that I have stopped behind because it's pretty damn obvious that the car is going to be able to move away more quickly than me and I prefer to have a clear road in front rather than an irritated moton behind.  I don't mind so much if people do it and move off briskly but I get extremely p-----d off if they do it and then crawl away from the lights in top gear, blocking everyone behind them.

Even more annoying are jerks like the one at Trafalgar Square this morning who positioned himself in front of me, just to my left, and then proceeded to turn right, across my front wheel, when the lights changed. Grrr.

(Oooh I  do like to have a good grump while eating lunch.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 20 February, 2012, 03:09:30 pm
I've noticed more barging recently, particularly from motor scooters in the bus lane but also from other cyclists. This has definitely got worse. I have also been politely informed that 'there's a bike lane there babe' by chaps in vans in a helpful rather than aggressive way twice recently, but not once ever before that. Maybe I'm looking less competent and they think I need the information ???

I had my first commuting puncture EVER this morning. A bit of metal had come off one of the spoke holes on my new rear wheel, I think. The annoying thing is that I had been thinking as I came out of the door how nice it was to be wearing my new coat with no chain marks on it :-[. So much for that then :( ;D.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 February, 2012, 03:23:07 pm
I think I fitted a new wheel without rim tape :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 20 February, 2012, 04:21:10 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 20 February, 2012, 01:44:16 pm
Even more annoying are jerks like the one at Trafalgar Square this morning who positioned himself in front of me, just to my left, and then proceeded to turn right, across my front wheel, when the lights changed. Grrr.

(Oooh I  do like to have a good grump while eating lunch.)

Makes me think of this one:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kQweb3-_D2I

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 20 February, 2012, 04:47:50 pm
I think I had my first clipless moment in 18 years today. I mean, I'm sure I had a clipless moment, it was quite obvious as I couldn't un-clip at all and turtled. I can't remember ever having had one before. Fortunately only four people saw me, unfortunately two of them were filming, fortunately their camera wasn't running, unfortunately my two cameras were. I suppose I'll have to post the video later.
I'm putting it down to my cleats working loose as I did lots of walking in them this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 20 February, 2012, 06:01:41 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 20 February, 2012, 01:44:16 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 20 February, 2012, 12:01:19 pm
It’s irritating rather than upsetting. 

Agree, it's very irritating.  And I suspect that there is a degree of snobbery involved, with some assuming that anyone not decked out in full aero kit is going to be a slow rider.  However, I ride fixie with drops, in cycling gear, but I also find that people seem determined to squeeze their way past me at traffic lights, often to plonk themselves across the white line, in front of the car that I have stopped behind because it's pretty damn obvious that the car is going to be able to move away more quickly than me and I prefer to have a clear road in front rather than an irritated moton behind.  I don't mind so much if people do it and move off briskly but I get extremely p-----d off if they do it and then crawl away from the lights in top gear, blocking everyone behind them.

Even more annoying are jerks like the one at Trafalgar Square this morning who positioned himself in front of me, just to my left, and then proceeded to turn right, across my front wheel, when the lights changed. Grrr.

(Oooh I  do like to have a good grump while eating lunch.)

Yeah, this happens to me. I hadn't thought about the lack of cycling gear, but yes, it is typically the lycra boys who perform one of the following manoeuvres:

1. The Squeeze Through. They gotta gotta gotta get ahead, even if there is not room to get past without the kind of close physical contact more usually reserved for the bedroom. If I can feel you, you are too close. And typically, I am where I am for very good reason. The large lorry in front, for instance. Clueless dicknorks.

2. The Does My Bum Look Big In This. I'm waiting at the lights. I'm at the head of queue of traffic. Cyclist passes and halts directly in front of me. That may treat me to a view of their wobbling lycra skinned arse as they aim (and miss) to impress with a trackstand (what are you, six years old?) or they'll simply sit there until the lights change. At which point they'll start to faff trying to clip back into their pedals, or work up enough strength to get their fixie/SS with the ludicrous gearing to inch forwards.

3. The Buzz Aldrin. The lights change, you start to move, a phenomenon often accompanied by a slight wobble. They pass at light speed regardless, within a whisker, but hey they're not slowing down. They're on a mission from God. Chances are they'll meet him more quickly than anticipated.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 20 February, 2012, 06:18:41 pm
Quote from: ian on 20 February, 2012, 06:01:41 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 20 February, 2012, 01:44:16 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 20 February, 2012, 12:01:19 pm
It’s irritating rather than upsetting. 

Agree, it's very irritating.  And I suspect that there is a degree of snobbery involved, with some assuming that anyone not decked out in full aero kit is going to be a slow rider.  However, I ride fixie with drops, in cycling gear, but I also find that people seem determined to squeeze their way past me at traffic lights, often to plonk themselves across the white line, in front of the car that I have stopped behind because it's pretty damn obvious that the car is going to be able to move away more quickly than me and I prefer to have a clear road in front rather than an irritated moton behind.  I don't mind so much if people do it and move off briskly but I get extremely p-----d off if they do it and then crawl away from the lights in top gear, blocking everyone behind them.

Even more annoying are jerks like the one at Trafalgar Square this morning who positioned himself in front of me, just to my left, and then proceeded to turn right, across my front wheel, when the lights changed. Grrr.

(Oooh I  do like to have a good grump while eating lunch.)

Yeah, this happens to me. I hadn't thought about the lack of cycling gear, but yes, it is typically the lycra boys who perform one of the following manoeuvres:

1. The Squeeze Through. They gotta gotta gotta get ahead, even if there is not room to get past without the kind of close physical contact more usually reserved for the bedroom. If I can feel you, you are too close. And typically, I am where I am for very good reason. The large lorry in front, for instance. Clueless dicknorks.

2. The Does My Bum Look Big In This. I'm waiting at the lights. I'm at the head of queue of traffic. Cyclist passes and halts directly in front of me. That may treat me to a view of their wobbling see-through lycra skinned arse as they aim (and miss) to impress with a trackstand (what are you, six years old?) or they'll simply sit there until the lights change. At which point they'll start to faff trying to clip back into their pedals, or work up enough strength to get their fixie/SS with the ludicrous gearing to inch forwards, additionally their adopted gearing will render them slower than a sloth whilst you are silently gesticulating at being sat behind them and powerless to do anything about it.3. The Buzz Aldrin.[/b] The lights change, you start to move, a phenomenon often accompanied by a slight wobble. They pass at light speed regardless, within a whisker, but hey they're not slowing down. They're on a mission from God. Chances are they'll meet him more quickly than anticipated.

I've added some stuff in bold italic, hope you don't mind Ian  :-*
Title: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 20 February, 2012, 06:21:32 pm
A couple of blind f**knuggets today, and a t****r in a van in the bus lane who tried to run me off the road.

Question for the forum.
When a nutcase is driving in the bus lane, and is tailgating you, do you;

a. Slow down and wind them up, as they shouldnt be there?

Or

b. Get out of their way, as a psycho could end up killing you?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 20 February, 2012, 06:36:30 pm
Yesterday Chris S reminded me that battery lights need charging.
I put my lights on to charge.
I rode home like a ninja in a completely black outfit.
It is not yet light enough to ride home without lights.


One of these statements did not happen.
 :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 20 February, 2012, 06:43:41 pm
Quote from: Parsley on 20 February, 2012, 06:21:32 pm
A couple of blind f**knuggets today, and a t****r in a van in the bus lane who tried to run me off the road.

Question for the forum.
When a nutcase is driving in the bus lane, and is tailgating you, do you;

a. Slow down and wind them up, as they shouldnt be there?

Or

b. Get out of their way, as a psycho could end up killing you?

Slow down and wind them up. I do this in Peckham.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 20 February, 2012, 06:56:45 pm
I filmed a cyclist on Sunday by chance. She was great, looked back, signalled, negotiated, and moved across at Vauxhall towards Oval. Submitted to Gaz for the Silly Cyclists series, as the end savvy cyclist. She had a huge smile when I told her how great her signalling was, so confident and in control.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 20 February, 2012, 10:02:08 pm
Yup, you've got the racing bike and all the kit, you're thinner than me and probably fitter.

But you couldn't catch a fixie uphill  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 21 February, 2012, 09:02:58 am
I was on the commute today
 ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CJA69C6SlRk
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 21 February, 2012, 09:08:00 am
Wow - cracking ride this morning. Tailwind, sunshine, small birds singing their hearts out, not cold. Marvellous.

No reverse tonight as I have an appointment with the vampires in Diss.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 21 February, 2012, 09:47:27 am
FFS. Hassle in the same spot today, of a different kind. Approaching the junction http://g.co/maps/2pm8t (a lot busier than that in rush hour), in the cycle lane on the left (I need to turn left), no lorries today but some cars also turning left in a long queue. I cycle up the left, fairly slowly so that I can stop if I need to, because I know that vehicles often cut the corner and go into the cycle lane. I know ideally you’d be in the middle of the lane, but you have to filter there or you would never get to the front of the queue, so I tend to do so carefully, unless there is a lorry like yesterday. If I can, I will move wide of the cycle lane once the traffic starts moving and an opportunity opens, to avoid turning left at the same time as other traffic, but I hadn’t yet managed that today at the traffic was heavy so I was still in the cycle lane.

Some absolute cockwomble on a bike somewhere behind me starts shouting ‘Go on! Go! Go on! For f***’s sake!’ really aggressively. Now I’m pretty sure it was aimed at me and my cautiousness, and there wasn’t space for him to get past. Luckily for him when I got past the junction and looked round to ask him who the hell he thought he was, I didn’t know which one he was (there were several cyclists), and I wasn’t sure if he’d gone straight on or what. If I could have identified him, I would have ripped him a new one. The last thing cyclists need is other cyclists trying to bully them. Am almost wishing I stopped cycling completely and turned round to retaliate, but I was more concerned with getting onto the bridge safely at the time.

If you want to filter fast and get to work two minutes earlier at the expense of safety, that’s absolutely fine. But if you start being aggressive towards me to facilitate this, you may well soon find a minipump rammed up your fundament.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 February, 2012, 09:53:39 am
I got up early today and headed out with Butterfly to her work.  Then, with a bit of time to kill, I headed up to Coldharbour Road and then out to Camberwell, Peckham, Dontknowwhereiwasafterthat, OKR, NKR, Over Blackfriars Bridge (my goodness, that's a magnet for idiots of all sorts, isn't it?), then along Embankment.  I'd promised myself I'd just ride one bridge, but I ended up going as far as Lambeth Bridge, as it's a fairly hassle-free ride back in to work.  33km in all.  A good way to start the day and I know that, even if I ride directly home, I'll have done 50km today :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 21 February, 2012, 10:05:50 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 21 February, 2012, 09:47:27 am
But if you start being aggressive towards me to facilitate this, you may well soon find a minipump rammed up your fundament.

 :thumbsup:

Cocks.  All in the rush to get to work - I am pleased they are so enthusiastic and diligent about getting to work - they must be great employees. 

How are we supposed to expect drivers to treat us with consideration and respect when we don't even seem to be able to do it to ourselves?

I know - it's the same impatient, inconsiderate cocks, just in a different mode of transport - but still.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 21 February, 2012, 10:18:47 am
Quote from: marcusjb on 21 February, 2012, 10:05:50 am
How are we supposed to expect drivers to treat us with consideration and respect when we don't even seem to be able to do it to ourselves?


This is the thing. I’ve been much more ‘zen’ around bad behaviour from drivers recently, apart from the odd really bad one, because after several years I’ve come to expect it – and they’re frequently not as bad as I expect, anyway. But coming from other cyclists it seems worse, somehow, though as you say idiots will be idiots no matter what form of transport.

I’m cross that I didn’t get a chance to vent the full force of my wrath on him. It would have made him think twice about doing it next time. That kind of thing would really have upset me when I was a newbie cyclist and not very confident.


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: seraphina on 21 February, 2012, 10:46:01 am
A lovely day for it. Took the risk of just wearing baselayer+jersey and was a fraction too cold. Nearly had to stop to replace mitts by gloves but after a few miles I was fine. I really struggled to get out of the village and for the first mile or two was thinking maybe it wasn't the greatest idea to cycle in but after that I suddenly got my wind and whizzed along. I made pancakes for breakfast so maybe they just took a while to kick in  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 21 February, 2012, 11:00:53 am
It's hard work towing a trailer. There were some workfare types (I think) clearing undergrowth next to the Sustrans path. I removed the bramble branch they'd helpfully left across the path before me and my trailer rode over it and got a puncture. One of them said 'nice bike' as I thanked him for stepping aside as I moved off. I'm not sure if he was being sarcastic or not, as it's my Pompino, which is a wreck.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: plum on 21 February, 2012, 05:53:00 pm
Took the Marathon Winters off in favour of regular tyres and my word when you stop banging your head against a brick wall the journey doesn't half get easier.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 21 February, 2012, 05:56:25 pm
Quote from: plum on 21 February, 2012, 05:53:00 pm
Took the Marathon Winters off in favour of regular tyres and my word when you stop banging your head against a brick wall the journey doesn't half get easier.

Funnily enough, having just done the same, I was being underwhelmed by the difference (apart from cornering being much better, obviously).   ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 21 February, 2012, 06:03:14 pm
Wearing a neoprenish cap means my hearing is somewhat attenuated ( even worse than usual ).

Tonight, on the way home, I hears a screech of tyres close behind me, and I look round.

It was a muppet in a small white van that had come horsing up behind me, expecting to just overtake on the opposite lane at high speed.   Only it was a blind corner, and just as he'd begun to pull out, something came round the bend towards him, requiring him to do some very hard emergency braking, which sent him into a slight spin.   He came to a halt at a 45 degree angle, about 3 metres behind me.   I *may* have uttered some words of advice to him.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 21 February, 2012, 06:37:09 pm
*iz why I also run a rear camera*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 21 February, 2012, 08:57:22 pm
I saw a beautiful pea-green boat lime-green Brompton on the commute this morning. Her route and mine diverged too soon for me to be able to compliment her on her steed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 21 February, 2012, 09:33:41 pm
Got Scalped on the way home by a young lady on a slightly older 'ladies' bike, as I wiped away the tears I saw that the bike had a very large rear hub connected to a battery connected to an LED thing on the handle bars  :D  It's electric!!!, my honor restored I pulled up beside her at the traffic light, she sensed me checking her out checking out her bike, and said to her 'isn't that cheating' 'well if you want to get some where fast' she said  :o I spent the next mile or so feeling like I was having an asthma attack trying to keep up with her (on my 14kg mountain bike) and regained my scalp by leaving her behind down towards Old street  :D 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 21 February, 2012, 10:00:47 pm
Lovely commute in after some leave for half term.  No ice made a change and also made it much more relaxing, less concentration required.  Ride home was tad damp and windy but it was light for the first 8 miles - so that was nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Androcles on 21 February, 2012, 11:41:43 pm
Almost home, turning right at a mini roundabout, narrowly missed the rider of a small motorbike who completely failed to recognise my right of way as he rode across the rbt without a change in speed or direction.  As the bike is equipped with a Cyo up front, I have a flashing headtorch and a hi-viz vest and I'm not particularly small I can't believe that he didn't see me and the most charitable interpretation is that he didn't see my signal and assumed that I was going straight on (in the opposite direction to him).  Seeing as it wasn't even properly dark, I find this hard to believe as well so I can only think that it never entered his head that he should slow down or stop.  It was fortunate that I had him, or someone very like him, do the same bit of muppetry a while ago so I was sort of expecting it.....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oscar's dad on 22 February, 2012, 07:14:33 am
Tonight I join the ranks of London commuters, albeit not on a daily basis.  I shall be riding home along THIS ROUTE. (http://bikeroutetoaster.com/Course.aspx?course=353660)  The plan is that I ride home once a week in an attempt to regain last year's fitness. 

Being a country bumpkin I am both excited and nervous at the prospect although I have arranged yacf companions for the entire route!  Andrij is riding with me from Paul Street to the M25.  Old Git is meeting us at Goodmayes then Huggy will meet me at The Wheatsheaf in Writtle where we will rest briefly  ;) before OG returns home and Huggy and I pedal the last leg to Witham.

If anyone fancies joining me on a weekly basis please get in touch, I'll be setting off from Paul Street at about 1800 hours.  A word of caution, work schedules mean I won't be doing it each week (for example, I'm in Wales next week) and the day is liable to change.  Last minute cancellations are also possible.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 22 February, 2012, 07:52:15 am
Quote from: Andyf on 21 February, 2012, 09:33:41 pm
Got Scalped on the way home by a young lady on a slightly older 'ladies' bike, as I wiped away the tears I saw that the bike had a very large rear hub connected to a battery connected to an LED thing on the handle bars  :D  It's electric!!!, 

those electric bikes have an Achilles heel.  If you are trying to catch one on a climb they have a small disadvantage, probably catch 20 metres per 100 metres.  But downhill they are a joke, I guess they have speed limiting to 20mph.  Something that heavy should go like a bomb downhill but they don't.
On the flat vs. a road bike they  seem about the same speed
Title: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 22 February, 2012, 08:08:10 am
Did the 4.5km to the station in what I think is a PB (for fixed) of 9mins 32secs today. And the really weird thing is, I didn't feel like I wanted to cough up my lungs at the end of it.

Notably, the one hill on the route was a complete doddle today.

I wonder if this is related to the fact that I tipped the scales at a shade over 70kg at this morning's weigh-in - almost certainly the lightest I've been this century. :smug:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 22 February, 2012, 09:03:16 am
Quote from: Oscar's dad on 22 February, 2012, 07:14:33 am
Tonight I join the ranks of London commuters, albeit not on a daily basis.  I shall be riding home along THIS ROUTE. (http://bikeroutetoaster.com/Course.aspx?course=353660)  The plan is that I ride home once a week in an attempt to regain last year's fitness. 

Being a country bumpkin I am both excited and nervous at the prospect although I have arranged yacf companions for the entire route!  Andrij is riding with me from Paul Street to the M25.  Old Git is meeting us at Goodmayes then Huggy will meet me at The Wheatsheaf in Writtle where we will rest briefly  ;) before OG returns home and Huggy and I pedal the last leg to Witham.

If anyone fancies joining me on a weekly basis please get in touch, I'll be setting off from Paul Street at about 1800 hours.  A word of caution, work schedules mean I won't be doing it each week (for example, I'm in Wales next week) and the day is liable to change.  Last minute cancellations are also possible.

Hope to join you on the next one !! The worst bit is untill you get to the M25 (slow traffic,slow traffic lights, East London  :sick:), then once over/under that bridge you feel your back in civilisation
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oscar's dad on 22 February, 2012, 09:06:11 am
Quote from: Andyf on 22 February, 2012, 09:03:16 am
Quote from: Oscar's dad on 22 February, 2012, 07:14:33 am
Tonight I join the ranks of London commuters, albeit not on a daily basis.  I shall be riding home along THIS ROUTE. (http://bikeroutetoaster.com/Course.aspx?course=353660)  The plan is that I ride home once a week in an attempt to regain last year's fitness. 

Being a country bumpkin I am both excited and nervous at the prospect although I have arranged yacf companions for the entire route!  Andrij is riding with me from Paul Street to the M25.  Old Git is meeting us at Goodmayes then Huggy will meet me at The Wheatsheaf in Writtle where we will rest briefly  ;) before OG returns home and Huggy and I pedal the last leg to Witham.

If anyone fancies joining me on a weekly basis please get in touch, I'll be setting off from Paul Street at about 1800 hours.  A word of caution, work schedules mean I won't be doing it each week (for example, I'm in Wales next week) and the day is liable to change.  Last minute cancellations are also possible.

Hope to join you on the next one !! The worst bit is untill you get to the M25 (slow traffic,slow traffic lights, East London  :sick:), then once over/under that bridge you feel your back in civilisation

 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 22 February, 2012, 10:01:45 am
Quote from: Oscar's dad on 22 February, 2012, 07:14:33 am

If anyone fancies joining me on a weekly basis please get in touch, I'll be setting off from Paul Street at about 1800 hours.  A word of caution, work schedules mean I won't be doing it each week (for example, I'm in Wales next week) and the day is liable to change.  Last minute cancellations are also possible.

Not sure the timing will work for me, but I'd be happy to join to the M25 and back, so if there is a mailing let me know. I swing past you pretty closely anyway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oscar's dad on 22 February, 2012, 10:04:35 am
Quote from: Ham on 22 February, 2012, 10:01:45 am
Quote from: Oscar's dad on 22 February, 2012, 07:14:33 am

If anyone fancies joining me on a weekly basis please get in touch, I'll be setting off from Paul Street at about 1800 hours.  A word of caution, work schedules mean I won't be doing it each week (for example, I'm in Wales next week) and the day is liable to change.  Last minute cancellations are also possible.

Not sure the timing will work for me, but I'd be happy to join to the M25 and back, so if there is a mailing let me know. I swing past you pretty closely anyway.

Thus far I have been communicating with the interested loons by PM.  I will add yo to the list.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 February, 2012, 10:20:15 am
Kinda tempted to join the OD Road Home ride at some point.  I shall have to shuffle some commitments to do it, though ;D

My commute in this morning was a good one.  The first part with Butterfly is always a joy, and this morning, instead of getting lost in SE London, I decided to ride the fast way to the river. 

It was a morning of fast women riders.  At Effra Road, I saw a woman on a Marin flat barred road bike (Lucas Valley?), wearing a Wallace & Gromit jersey.  She kept pace with me (or, rather, I kept pace with her) through Brixton and down across the Oval junction and up towards Westminster Bridge.

After crossing Westminster Bridge, I turned right, and followed Embankment to Blackfriars Bridge (I really don't like the tunnel bit after the turn).  Then I went to Tooley Street to buy a new lock.  Laden with two heavy u-locks, I was tempted just to go into work early, but I decided to ride anyway.  That's when I encountered fast woman number two.  She was a small woman, and rode her black Cannondale road bike through the tunnel, which is closed off to motor traffic, then down to the Leathermarket at a fair old pace over the rough surface.  She turned off, but I could never have kept pace with her in any case.

 Next, I rode down to the Millwall ground - a familiar route* through quietish streets - and back along the Old Kent Road and New Kent Road.

32km today. :)

* Not because I support Millwall :sick: but I've been to regular meetings down there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oscar's dad on 22 February, 2012, 10:25:31 am
Quote from: clarion on 22 February, 2012, 10:20:15 am

Kinda tempted to join the OD Road Home ride at some point.  I shall have to shuffle some commitments to do it, though ;D


I'm wondering whether to start a specific thread but it seems a bit indulgent.  What do we think?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jimini on 22 February, 2012, 11:38:45 am
Quote from: Oscar's dad on 22 February, 2012, 10:25:31 am
Quote from: clarion on 22 February, 2012, 10:20:15 am

Kinda tempted to join the OD Road Home ride at some point.  I shall have to shuffle some commitments to do it, though ;D


I'm wondering whether to start a specific thread but it seems a bit indulgent.  What do we think?

One of my mates lives in the 'Ford and would more than likely be up for that. I'd probably tag along too and then head back in the following morning, thinking about it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 22 February, 2012, 01:22:40 pm
Quote from: vorsprung on 22 February, 2012, 07:52:15 am
But downhill they are a joke, I guess they have speed limiting to 20mph.  Something that heavy should go like a bomb downhill but they don't.

From experience of descending at speeds in excess of R17 on a gaspipe folding BSO, I suspect that it's a combination of piss-poor aerodynamics (electric bikes are usually ones with a very upright position) and a nervous rider using the brakes because the handling at speed is utterly terrifying.  The speed limiting only applies to electric power - they can go as fast as you like when propelled by the pedals or gravity.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 22 February, 2012, 01:30:03 pm
First morning barn owl of the year.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 22 February, 2012, 01:49:07 pm
The bolt-upright Gazelle drops like a stone on the slightest downhill; God knows what it would be like if it wasn’t so upright. I recently had a moped rider go to turn right in front of me and then think better of it and wimp out at the last minute when he realised the speed at which I was hurtling towards him (lovely heartstopping moment, that).

In the New Forest at the weekend (with dog, which sadly meant without bikes) I was most impressed with the speed an old couple were zooming along at on the flat, only to notice they were on hired electric bikes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 22 February, 2012, 08:17:18 pm
Slow and horrible commute home into a viscous head wind.  Then 5 miles from home a car came whizzing up behind me on a sharp left bend and all I heard was a squealing of tyres as they skidded behind me.  I stood up in case it kept coming and started looking at the verge but thankfully it did stop.  It was a 'sports' car of sorts.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 22 February, 2012, 10:45:03 pm
On the final bit home, I'm approaching a side road on my left. A car comes up to the give way line as I draw near.  And pulls out. WTF. I shout and swerve right at the same time. I'm that >< close to the car. And the driver carries on his way, oblivious, I'm sure, of what's gone on.  I give a Hoy like sprint to try and catch him, but he's too fast.  Wastrel.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 23 February, 2012, 08:23:26 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 22 February, 2012, 07:52:15 am
Quote from: Andyf on 21 February, 2012, 09:33:41 pm
Got Scalped on the way home by a young lady on a slightly older 'ladies' bike, as I wiped away the tears I saw that the bike had a very large rear hub connected to a battery connected to an LED thing on the handle bars  :D  It's electric!!!, 

those electric bikes have an Achilles heel.  If you are trying to catch one on a climb they have a small disadvantage, probably catch 20 metres per 100 metres.  But downhill they are a joke, I guess they have speed limiting to 20mph.  Something that heavy should go like a bomb downhill but they don't.
On the flat vs. a road bike they  seem about the same speed

<BZZZT>  If they are legal, they are limited to 15mph (when under power). So shouldn't be as quick as a road bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oscar's dad on 23 February, 2012, 08:50:55 am
I had a fun ride home last night many thanks to my yacf outriders (Andrij, Old Git and Huggy).  Got home at 11pm having set off at 6pm.  The later than expected arrival was mainly due to us staying for three pints in The Wheatsheaf, Writtle instead of the intended one  ;D

The following wind was excellent and thankfully the other road users were benign with the exception of a muppet on the Boreham Road (just a few miles from home) who gave Huggy a fright at a pinch point.

Looking forward to the next run home which will be the week after next at the earliest.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 February, 2012, 10:23:54 am
Quote from: Oscar's dad on 23 February, 2012, 08:50:55 am
...The later than expected arrival was mainly due to us staying for three pints in The Wheatsheaf, Writtle instead of the intended one  ;D ...

That's the sort of accident that can happen. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oscar's dad on 23 February, 2012, 10:31:56 am
Quote from: clarion on 23 February, 2012, 10:23:54 am
Quote from: Oscar's dad on 23 February, 2012, 08:50:55 am
...The later than expected arrival was mainly due to us staying for three pints in The Wheatsheaf, Writtle instead of the intended one  ;D ...

That's the sort of accident that can happen. ;D

I, and my mid-Essex cycling companions, are particularly accident prone in this regard  :smug:

As we were leaving The Wheatsheaf a bunch of CAMRA chaps walked in.  Seeing we were cyclists they were keen to tell us about their cycling pub tours during which they visit 2 pubs per evening.  They were somewhat crestfallen when we commented that 2 pubs was a bit lightweight and with a following wind plus good fortune on our side we could manage 6 pubs per evening.  They then went on the talk about Morris dancing, at which point I legged it.  I've long fancied having a go but know The Current Mrs R wouldn't be keen so I didn't want to be exposed to temptation. I suppose TCMR is right, I don't need another obsession  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 February, 2012, 11:00:22 am
I had another elongated commute this morning - and I only have another three if things go to plan.

I rode with Butterfly to her work, then set off up to Westminster Bridge again.  Rather than revisit Parliament Square, I turned right along Embankment, but took the left turn at Blackfriars and wove through some back streets till I emerged at Ludgate Circus, tried Holborn, got seduced into interesting side streets again, and emerged at Long Acre. 

Trafalgar Square was stupid, as usual, but once on the Mall, it was OK, though I turned off quickly down the side of the Park and past the QE Conference Centre and along my old commute cut through to Horseferry Road, where I went over Lambeth Bridge.  That's too direct, so, just before work, I turned off and did a loop up by Borough High St.  32km again.  I don't think it'll be a hat-trick of 60km days, as I want to get home this evening, but I will hit 50km.  Which is nice. :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 23 February, 2012, 12:08:10 pm
Quote from: GruB on 22 February, 2012, 08:17:18 pm
Slow and horrible commute home into a viscous head wind....
Riding through treacle?  :)

At least you got home in one piece.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 23 February, 2012, 12:12:02 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 23 February, 2012, 12:08:10 pm
Quote from: GruB on 22 February, 2012, 08:17:18 pm
Slow and horrible commute home into a viscous head wind....
Riding through treacle?  :)

It certainly felt like riding through treacle last night. Cold treacle. While also being involved in a pillow fight.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 23 February, 2012, 12:13:48 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 23 February, 2012, 12:08:10 pm
Quote from: GruB on 22 February, 2012, 08:17:18 pm
Slow and horrible commute home into a viscous head wind....
Riding through treacle?  :)

At least you got home in one piece.

That is quite an apt misspelling.  I like that.  Shame I can't say it was deliberate  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 23 February, 2012, 02:11:25 pm
Really stupid over-takey brakey this morning. I didn't let it disturb my Zen.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: plum on 23 February, 2012, 06:41:07 pm
Huge lorry pulled out in front of me right at the last moment. Couldn't prevent it disturbing my zen.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 23 February, 2012, 07:28:07 pm
Luckily, I can see a time/temperature display on another building from the first aide room where I change at work. Luckily I looked out at it this evening.  14 at 5 pm.  Bloody hell.  That's about 17 higher than a fortnight ago.
"Right. I don't need to wear that, or that, or that, or that."
Talk about a bulging panier.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 23 February, 2012, 08:12:28 pm
Cracking ride home tonight.  Still light when I left work, there were bats flitting around in the lanes at dusk & I've now clocked up my 1st thousand miles of the year  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: dasmi on 23 February, 2012, 08:47:14 pm
Quote from: Androcles on 21 February, 2012, 11:41:43 pm
Almost home, turning right at a mini roundabout, narrowly missed the rider of a small motorbike who completely failed to recognise my right of way as he rode across the rbt without a change in speed or direction.  As the bike is equipped with a Cyo up front, I have a flashing headtorch and a hi-viz vest and I'm not particularly small I can't believe that he didn't see me and the most charitable interpretation is that he didn't see my signal and assumed that I was going straight on (in the opposite direction to him).  Seeing as it wasn't even properly dark, I find this hard to believe as well so I can only think that it never entered his head that he should slow down or stop.  It was fortunate that I had him, or someone very like him, do the same bit of muppetry a while ago so I was sort of expecting it.....

Was it on of normanton's resident numpty's ?........there seem to be a new batch out there ::-) ::-) :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 23 February, 2012, 08:57:27 pm
I had an assignation on the way home. So when I saw bike lights approaching, I slowed right down and did a middle of the lane, on-the-bike imitation of slow-motion arms wide romantic rushing into each others arms.



It was someone else.
 :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 23 February, 2012, 09:52:49 pm
Back on a bike today, but sadly it was only a Norris1,2 Bike.  Better one of those than using the Tube for the entire journey both ways.

1 Well, they are quite tough
2 Not sure I could ride  Doris Bike
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 24 February, 2012, 09:32:53 am
Quote from: fboab on 23 February, 2012, 08:57:27 pm
I had an assignation on the way home. So when I saw bike lights approaching, I slowed right down and did a middle of the lane, on-the-bike imitation of slow-motion arms wide romantic rushing into each others arms.



It was someone else.
 :-[

Haha!

If it makes you feel better at least you didn’t mistake a random forummer you’d never met before for your boyfriend in the middle of the night on a FNRttC, just because they were wearing the same jacket  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 24 February, 2012, 10:18:03 am
a close overtake on the commute yesterday. Had a few words with the driver who advised me to ride 'in the kerb'.
videoed here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qEcWCcZp58Q and left mentioning he'd 'knock me out' any time.
Is that something you'd report on roadsafe?

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 24 February, 2012, 10:24:11 am
I was given the same advice in the village last week when I caught him up.I pointed out to him that I have his registration number & know where he lives.*
Park your car in the garage at night.
Intimidation is a two edged sword.

*It's almost difficult NOT to know where someone lives in a two-horse town when you know a vehicle reg.#
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 24 February, 2012, 10:26:58 am
Arno, oh, that's definitely Roadsafe. I'd say there was a metre between his car and the kerb, and thus much less to your shoulder.

p.s. I just liked and commented and subscribed, that might get your video quite some attention. :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 24 February, 2012, 10:27:21 am
It's really hard to tell how close they were from that vid - it looks like more than an arm-length away, were they closer than that?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 24 February, 2012, 10:28:45 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 24 February, 2012, 10:27:21 am
It's really hard to tell how close they were from that vid - it looks like more than an arm-length away, were they closer than that?

Based on my YouTube experience, I'd guess that was less than a foot from Arno's shoulder/handlebars.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 24 February, 2012, 10:38:46 am
Quote from: Wendy on 24 February, 2012, 10:28:45 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 24 February, 2012, 10:27:21 am
It's really hard to tell how close they were from that vid - it looks like more than an arm-length away, were they closer than that?

Based on my YouTube experience, I'd guess that was less than a foot from Arno's shoulder/handlebars.

Yes it was quite close. That camera has 170 degree angle of view (I guess on the diagonal). might be able to tell the exact distance if I knew the size of his wheels with a bit of trigonometry.
A.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 24 February, 2012, 10:45:16 am
Quote from: Wendy on 24 February, 2012, 10:26:58 am
p.s. I just liked and commented and subscribed, that might get your video quite some attention. :P
Much appreciated.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 24 February, 2012, 10:54:26 am
will pm Gaz as well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 24 February, 2012, 11:09:26 am
Coming through Beckenham this morning, I heard a car horn behind me, glanced round and saw a giant silver B*W X3 Wankpanzer. Not surprised it couldn't get past - it was taking up pretty much the full width of the lane. They are astonishingly large vehicles. I really don't get why anyone would wilfully drive such a ridiculous vehicle in suburban London.

Moments later, the road ahead became clear enough for him to pass, which he did, before immediately turning left. A manoeuvre that must have saved him all of half a second. I just hope that wherever he was going, it was worth the rush.

People, eh?  ::-)

Nice ride in though. Lovely spring-like conditions, and traffic generally seemed much lighter than yesterday.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 24 February, 2012, 12:21:33 pm
Had a near miss with a Buzzard  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 24 February, 2012, 12:49:53 pm
Quote from: Arno on 24 February, 2012, 10:18:03 am
a close overtake on the commute yesterday. Had a few words with the driver who advised me to ride 'in the kerb'.
videoed here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qEcWCcZp58Q and left mentioning he's 'knock me out' any time.
Is that something you'd report on roadsafe?

Threat to kill a la Martin Porter?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 24 February, 2012, 01:16:30 pm
Quote from: fungus on 24 February, 2012, 12:21:33 pm
Had a near miss with a Buzzard  :o

Did you carrion?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 24 February, 2012, 08:06:50 pm
Quote from: Paul on 24 February, 2012, 01:16:30 pm
Quote from: fungus on 24 February, 2012, 12:21:33 pm
Had a near miss with a Buzzard  :o

Did you carrion?

Of course I did, because its better than being on the buses  :)
Used my mity8 too  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 24 February, 2012, 09:03:02 pm
waiting at the lights at the bottom of Blackheath Hill I was overtaken by two jerks on road bikes who ran the red light. It gave me great pleasure to pass them about 30 seconds later, on fixed, with full panniers  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 24 February, 2012, 09:32:09 pm
What is this Friday legs of which they speak?

Fastest ride of the week today, I reckon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 24 February, 2012, 09:35:15 pm
As my commute is only 5 miles each way, I don't get Friday (or Thursday) legs.
I often get Monday (or Tuesday) legs, due to week-end silliness.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 24 February, 2012, 10:03:20 pm
Quote from: Basil on 24 February, 2012, 09:35:15 pm
As my commute is only 5 miles each way, I don't get Friday (or Thursday) legs.
I often get Monday (or Tuesday) legs, due to week-end silliness.  :thumbsup:
Exactamundo.  A horrible word, which I shall never use again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: plum on 24 February, 2012, 10:25:07 pm
Quote from: rower40 on 24 February, 2012, 10:03:20 pm
Quote from: Basil on 24 February, 2012, 09:35:15 pm
As my commute is only 5 miles each way, I don't get Friday (or Thursday) legs.
I often get Monday (or Tuesday) legs, due to week-end silliness.  :thumbsup:
Exactamundo.  A horrible word, which I shall never use again.

Exactamundo?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 25 February, 2012, 06:40:42 am
Quote from: plum on 24 February, 2012, 10:25:07 pm
Quote from: rower40 on 24 February, 2012, 10:03:20 pm
Quote from: Basil on 24 February, 2012, 09:35:15 pm
As my commute is only 5 miles each way, I don't get Friday (or Thursday) legs.
I often get Monday (or Tuesday) legs, due to week-end silliness.  :thumbsup:
Exactamundo.  A horrible word, which I shall never use again.

Exactamundo?
*Gets DVD Box Set out to check facts*

Sorry, I appear to have mangled a Dr Who quote, which didn't quite work.  In "Tooth and Claw", in the second series of the modern era (David Tennent as the Doctor, and Billie Piper as Rose Tyler), the Doctor is posing as a Secondary School Physics teacher, and uses the word "Correctamundo" - which I had mis-remembered.
I was attempting to say "+1" to Basil in a new and interesting way; my commute is 3 miles each way, so my tired legs are on Mondays.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 25 February, 2012, 08:40:34 am
Quote from: rower40 on 24 February, 2012, 10:03:20 pm
Quote from: Basil on 24 February, 2012, 09:35:15 pm
As my commute is only 5 miles each way, I don't get Friday (or Thursday) legs.
I often get Monday (or Tuesday) legs, due to week-end silliness.  :thumbsup:
Exactamundo.  A horrible word, which I shall never use again.

Exactamundo sounds like something The Fonz would say. Therefore, it's cool. 8)

Eeeehh! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 25 February, 2012, 08:07:54 pm
Got a front wheel puncture on the way to work.
On the way home, I was tired mentally and ran off on a sharp right due to excess speed.
Another 10 miles on I run off into the rut caused by traffic going off the tarmac and into the verge ( the muddy rut next to the road ) and had a roller coaster ride until I could get it back onto the road.  Glad I didn't fall off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 25 February, 2012, 08:26:24 pm
http://www.wwtfd.org/fonz-fonzie-quotes/
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 25 February, 2012, 09:26:03 pm
Anyone cycling west tonight? How mad is venus and jupiter dead next to the moon on its back?!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 26 February, 2012, 08:03:53 am
Venus & the moon, clearly visible. Didn't see jupiter.
(Predictably, I was advised by my pilot that if I turned round, I'd see Uranus)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Domestique on 26 February, 2012, 09:33:07 am
Quote from: spindrift on 25 February, 2012, 09:26:03 pm
Anyone cycling west tonight? How mad is venus and jupiter dead next to the moon on its back?!

Was having a look at that with the help of a phone app, google sky map. Was a nice thing to see, being I have looked up at the sky at night and never been to sure what I have been looking at.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 26 February, 2012, 06:34:53 pm
Quote from: teethgrinder on 25 February, 2012, 08:40:34 am
Exactamundo sounds like something The Fonz would say. Therefore, it's cool. 8)

Cancelled out by its regular use by ninja turtles...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: why1040 on 26 February, 2012, 10:34:24 pm
Quote from: Kim on 26 February, 2012, 06:34:53 pm
Quote from: teethgrinder on 25 February, 2012, 08:40:34 am
Exactamundo sounds like something The Fonz would say. Therefore, it's cool. 8)

Cancelled out by its regular use by ninja turtles...

That

 :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil on 26 February, 2012, 11:57:19 pm
A BMW sat patiently behind me for the entire length of the Blackfriars Underpass, which was down to one lane :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 27 February, 2012, 12:54:08 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 25 February, 2012, 09:26:03 pm
Anyone cycling west tonight? How mad is venus and jupiter dead next to the moon on its back?!

Which one was which  ???

Nearest the moon ..........
Further away ...........
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 27 February, 2012, 12:59:50 pm
Quote from: fungus on 27 February, 2012, 12:54:08 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 25 February, 2012, 09:26:03 pm
Anyone cycling west tonight? How mad is venus and jupiter dead next to the moon on its back?!

Which one was which  ???

Nearest the moon ..........
Further away ...........

Venus was below and to the left of the moon, Jupiter higher and to the left of the moon. At least at 7pm from my vantage point in SW London, observers in more far flung places may have had a different view :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 27 February, 2012, 04:53:51 pm
Quote from: Phil on 26 February, 2012, 11:57:19 pm
A BMW sat patiently behind me for the entire length of the Blackfriars Underpass, which was down to one lane :)

Is that a long-term closure, do you know?  I may avoid it on the way home (going east)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tynan on 27 February, 2012, 11:41:36 pm
I knocked a pedistrian over, the bike in front narrowly missed him, he then continued to cross, still without looking at what was coming, saw him very late as he appeared from behind the bike in front, scratghed shin for me, bike fine, ped took quite the thump I'm afriad, nasty limp but walking wounded
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 28 February, 2012, 06:09:58 am
Saw a rat, healthy looking bugger.
Got buzzed by some bats just before I went over the M4 too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 28 February, 2012, 07:33:05 am
Quote from: Tynan on 27 February, 2012, 11:41:36 pm
I knocked a pedistrian over, the bike in front narrowly missed him, he then continued to cross, still without looking at what was coming, saw him very late as he appeared from behind the bike in front, scratghed shin for me, bike fine, ped took quite the thump I'm afriad, nasty limp but walking wounded

Glad the bike's OK, and hope your scraped shin isn't a bad one.

I could so tease you for that over on CC, but I won't mate.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oscar's dad on 28 February, 2012, 07:34:41 am
Quote from: Tynan on 27 February, 2012, 11:41:36 pm
I knocked a pedistrian over, the bike in front narrowly missed him, he then continued to cross, still without looking at what was coming, saw him very late as he appeared from behind the bike in front, scratghed shin for me, bike fine, ped took quite the thump I'm afriad, nasty limp but walking wounded

I do wish peds would look with their eyes not their ears. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 28 February, 2012, 07:54:19 am
First one for two and a half weeks and what a lovely ride, the world is good again.

Just have to be careful how I unclip the left foot for a few weeks
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jezzasnr on 28 February, 2012, 08:14:15 am
....i fell off.

new tyres / greasy kerb / poor approach angle.

the start of middle age & my life with Schwable Marathons hasn't started well, but i really want to like them. Other than that, they were good.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 28 February, 2012, 08:44:32 am
I watched in horror as a cyclist, riding fast, undertook a slowly left turning tipper truck. I am pretty sure that he brushed the side of it, leaving behind a cleaner smudge just in front of the rear wheels (though that could be my eyes playing tricks on me). He made it past and shot off up the road.

In much more fun news, after I had got a cup of coffee, I watched as a mother and child pedalled past on a Dutchbike - child sitting on the rack. It made me smile. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oscar's dad on 28 February, 2012, 09:49:16 am
Quote from: Jacomus on 28 February, 2012, 08:44:32 am
I watched in horror as a cyclist, riding fast, undertook a slowly left turning tipper truck. I am pretty sure that he brushed the side of it, leaving behind a cleaner smudge just in front of the rear wheels (though that could be my eyes playing tricks on me). He made it past and shot off up the road.

This sort of thing annoys the hell out of me. Had the cyclist's error of judgement proved fatal the press would have been full of "Shock horror, another cyclist killed by a lorry" but in this case the lorry was not at fault.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 28 February, 2012, 09:56:15 am
Quote from: Oscar's dad on 28 February, 2012, 09:49:16 am
This sort of thing annoys the hell out of me. Had the cyclist's error of judgement proved fatal the press would have been full of "Shock horror, another cyclist killed by a lorry" but in this case the lorry was not at fault.

If it had been the lorry driver to blame, would it have annoyed you more or less?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oscar's dad on 28 February, 2012, 10:01:03 am
I would be equally annoyed and upset. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 28 February, 2012, 10:07:09 am
so many cyclists today and so many kids with mums too. It seems hard to believe that only a few weeks ago we were riding in snow and ice!!!
If this carries on though, some parts of my route will actually be quite tricky due to the number of cyclists.

There are several junctions I use regularly that simply don't have the capacity for the numbers of cyclists now using them - Clapham North Side cycle route needs a longer green light phase for cyclists and a larger assembly area for waiting cyclists for example, Cedars Road, junction with Lavendar Hill often has 10-20 cyclists waiting at the lights, far more cyclists than cars cross on each green phase. Great chunks of CS7 have more cyclists on them than cars on the road alongside. You can really see a major change in the roadscapes that the politicians are slowly coming to recognise. Like it or not the roads at rush hour are becoming dominated by bikes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 28 February, 2012, 10:09:27 am
Quote from: Oscar's dad on 28 February, 2012, 10:01:03 am
I would be equally annoyed and upset.

OK, fair enough. Perhaps it's just me, but the post came across as very TRL549 to me (i.e. we need to stop blaming lorry drivers). Sorry I got that wrong.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oscar's dad on 28 February, 2012, 10:19:10 am
No worries I could have have been clearer.

My point is that there are a significant number of stupid cyclists just as there are too many dangerous drivers.  I am.also concerned that the press maybe not be as balanced as they could be. Cycling in major cities should be much safer and we all need to take care, that includes pedestrians, us and drivers. The press could really help by promoting a balanced discussion.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jezzasnr on 28 February, 2012, 10:24:48 am
Quote from: Oscar's dad on 28 February, 2012, 10:19:10 am
No worries I could have have been clearer.

My point is that there are a significant number of stupid cyclists just as there are too many dangerous drivers.  I am.also concerned that the press maybe not be as balanced as they could be. Cycling in major cities should be much safer and we all need to take care, that includes pedestrians, us and drivers. The press could really help by promoting a balanced discussion.

and not just on cycling matters.

it's to easy for opinions to become polarised buy lazy assumptions. i sometimes find my own lazyness frightening in this respect.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 28 February, 2012, 10:25:27 am
Yes, absolutely!  Look at it this way: Careless cyclists almost without exception kill or injure only themselves. Careless drivers kill and/or injure others, and occasionally themselves too.

I do spend some effort on silly cyclists - just look at the contributions so many of us put towards the series on YouTube, but I think from the above it's very obvious where many orders of magnitude more effort needs to be spent.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 28 February, 2012, 10:27:38 am
Quote from: alexb on 28 February, 2012, 10:07:09 am
Like it or not the roads at rush hour are becoming dominated by bikes.

Unfortunately I would say this is only on a very few roads, you are fortunate that it is the road you use.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 28 February, 2012, 10:32:45 am
Quote from: Oscar's dad on 28 February, 2012, 07:34:41 am
Quote from: Tynan on 27 February, 2012, 11:41:36 pm
I knocked a pedistrian over, the bike in front narrowly missed him, he then continued to cross, still without looking at what was coming, saw him very late as he appeared from behind the bike in front, scratghed shin for me, bike fine, ped took quite the thump I'm afriad, nasty limp but walking wounded

I do wish peds would look with their eyes not their ears.

I’ve been watching that Death Unexplained programme on iplayer (following the work of a coroner). The second ep dealt with the case of a man in his eighties who’d been killed by a cyclist overtaking a stopped bus; it seemed likely he’d been ‘looking with his ears’. Very sad for both him and the cyclist.

My singlespeed Dutch bike is extra silent but luckily the big dingdong bell I’ve put on it tends to ring itself a little every time I hit a slightly bump in the road (not hard in London). This is quite useful in announcing my presence.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 28 February, 2012, 10:40:55 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 28 February, 2012, 10:32:45 am


My singlespeed Dutch bike is extra silent but luckily the big dingdong bell I’ve put on it tends to ring itself a little every time I hit a slightly bump in the road (not hard in London). This is quite useful in announcing my presence.

As a clanger veteran (I bought mine in Belgium about 10 years ago) I would like to point out that you can tune the amount it clangs to itself by changing the angle it sits on the bars, trimming it to your preference.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 28 February, 2012, 10:53:42 am
Quote from: Ham on 28 February, 2012, 10:40:55 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 28 February, 2012, 10:32:45 am


My singlespeed Dutch bike is extra silent but luckily the big dingdong bell I’ve put on it tends to ring itself a little every time I hit a slightly bump in the road (not hard in London). This is quite useful in announcing my presence.

As a clanger veteran (I bought mine in Belgium about 10 years ago) I would like to point out that you can tune the amount it clangs to itself by changing the angle it sits on the bars, trimming it to your preference.

In homage to Bill Bailey's marvellous horn-machine, my bike bell has now been replaced by a proper honk-honk horn. I'm transformed. I may add more so I can play Enter Sandman, or perhaps more appositely the Ride of the Valkyries as I descend into Peckham.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 28 February, 2012, 11:29:29 am
Old car (Morris Minor?) trying to squeeze through the queue of cars by  ovelapping the cycling lane, gave him a good angry stare (the helmet cam incidentally was also staring at him).
Later at the traffic light the middle age rough-bearded chap at the wheel opens his window and asks, 'was it one of them cycling lanes I went over? really sorry mate'. All very civilized and heartfelt apology (hopefully not just triggered by the fear of being filmed), made me instantly feel better.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 28 February, 2012, 11:48:39 am
Doesn't it just? That's a great story!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tynan on 28 February, 2012, 02:24:00 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 28 February, 2012, 07:33:05 am
Quote from: Tynan on 27 February, 2012, 11:41:36 pm
I knocked a pedistrian over, the bike in front narrowly missed him, he then continued to cross, still without looking at what was coming, saw him very late as he appeared from behind the bike in front, scratghed shin for me, bike fine, ped took quite the thump I'm afriad, nasty limp but walking wounded

Glad the bike's OK, and hope your scraped shin isn't a bad one.

I could so tease you for that over on CC, but I won't mate.  ;D
:)

it honestly wasn't my fault in any way at all, other than being there, it never is, i can only ride in a straight line in primary, I genuinely wonder how I don't hit one every single ride, there's that many flitting through the traffic, usually without looking at all, the shin is only just a scratch
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 28 February, 2012, 02:31:56 pm
Totally, it was just a gentle windup. I know you're an excellent rider.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tynan on 28 February, 2012, 08:01:47 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 28 February, 2012, 02:31:56 pm
Totally, it was just a gentle windup. I know you're an excellent rider.
hmpf, well alright then
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 28 February, 2012, 10:42:28 pm
A motorcyclist rode into my back wheel and pringled it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 28 February, 2012, 10:48:37 pm
Quote from: Adrian on 28 February, 2012, 10:42:28 pm
A motorcyclist rode into my back wheel and pringled it.

Ouch! you OK?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 28 February, 2012, 11:39:08 pm
Quote from: Adrian on 28 February, 2012, 10:42:28 pm
A motorcyclist rode into my back wheel and pringled it.

Oh no! That's a bummer. How did it happen? Was it one of those "I wasn't expecting you to stop at that red light" situations?

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 29 February, 2012, 07:23:19 am
So much Cycling F***witry this morning I dispair, especally the **** who clipped my handbars as he went on to RLJ
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 29 February, 2012, 07:46:24 am
A bit tough this morning, paying for last nights exuberance of 10 mile in 29 mins, not exactly TT speed but quick enough after a lay off.

Someone wanted a race this morning down Carrington Lane and I tried to resist, honestly I did, but once he'd caught my wheeel I just couldn't help it and pushed up to 22 ish to  drop him, not bad for a hippy with a dodgy left leg
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 29 February, 2012, 08:03:35 am
Quote from: Si_Co on 29 February, 2012, 07:46:24 am
A bit tough this morning, paying for last nights exuberance of 10 mile in 29 mins, not exactly TT speed but quick enough after a lay off.
You did a sub 30 ten and you say it's not quick enough? Git. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 29 February, 2012, 09:05:41 am
Wow - it was slippy today.

The last time the lanes had any decent amount of water on them was when the snow melted nearly a month ago. Plenty of time since then for lots of red diesel, farm yard soil, actual soil and sundry other corruption to build up. This morning's drizzly dampness has made a fine slick out of that lot.

The front wheel twitched horribly as I turned a 90' right hander, and I clenched for impact, but somehow managed to keep upright.

Other than that - nice ride  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 29 February, 2012, 09:07:33 am
Cycling though an estate I passed some schoolkids wot were bigger than I am. One of them said ‘Yo bruv that bike ain’t even got any gears!’

I'm going to assume that he was indeed addressing one of his bruvs and not me; I may be looking a bit ropey with this horrible cold I've got but I don't think I've started looking like a bloke...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 29 February, 2012, 09:17:14 am
Quote from: Si_Co on 29 February, 2012, 07:46:24 am
A bit tough this morning, paying for last nights exuberance of 10 mile in 29 mins, not exactly TT speed but quick enough after a lay off.

Someone wanted a race this morning down Carrington Lane and I tried to resist, honestly I did, but once he'd caught my wheeel I just couldn't help it and pushed up to 22 ish to  drop him, not bad for a hippy with a dodgy left leg

You are slipping there son.Twas only just a sub 30 ten.That lay off is dragging you you down to my level. :demon:
Last time I did a 10mile TT even I managed 32mins ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 29 February, 2012, 09:21:05 am
Quote from: TheLurker on 29 February, 2012, 08:03:35 am
Quote from: Si_Co on 29 February, 2012, 07:46:24 am
A bit tough this morning, paying for last nights exuberance of 10 mile in 29 mins, not exactly TT speed but quick enough after a lay off.
You did a sub 30 ten and you say it's not quick enough? Git. :)

that's not what I call him when I'm trying & failing miserably to keep with him for 30 miles on the A52 ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oscar's dad on 29 February, 2012, 09:25:33 am
Quote from: Chris S on 29 February, 2012, 09:05:41 am
... and I clenched for impact ...

You will be pleased to know this is my Phrase of the Day!

 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 29 February, 2012, 09:49:02 am
Quote from: citoyen on 28 February, 2012, 11:39:08 pm
Quote from: Adrian on 28 February, 2012, 10:42:28 pm
A motorcyclist rode into my back wheel and pringled it.

Oh no! That's a bummer. How did it happen? Was it one of those "I wasn't expecting you to stop at that red light" situations?

d.
It was a "I thought you had gone" situation waiting to get onto the Elephant & Castle gyratory. The rider, a French woman on a French registered bike with a French insurance document was most apologetic and got £100 out of a cash point to cover the damage, which it should. A cyclist called Benji gave me a business card in case I needed a witness, which was good of him.
It was the work bit that was a pain. I was too late for an appointment so had to send someone else, and I had to leave early to take it to the shop. I also had to carry it into work. Still it can always be worse.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 29 February, 2012, 10:15:09 am
Adrian, very glad you're still with us!  I saw the photos of the wheel, and quickly realised it wasn't the optimal shape.

This morning I actually commuted!  I left the house shortly after Butterfly, and caught up with her at Mitcham Common, from where we had a lovely ride in.  After I left her, I rode through Brixton and Vauxhall, which I confess was a daft mistake.  I hate that junction.

Once over the bridge, I rode Embankment to Parliament Sq, up Whitehall, down The Mall, then back to Parliament Sq, where I picked up the Embankment again.  Roadworks at Blackfriars held up the motors, but it wasn't too problematic for bikes.  Then a spin through Southwark, zigzagging a bit, and in to work early, with 30km covered.

The usual motorised numpties, but hordes of bikes RLJing North of the river. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JJ on 29 February, 2012, 10:47:17 am
Quote from: Chris S on 29 February, 2012, 09:05:41 am
Wow - it was slippy today.

The last time the lanes had any decent amount of water on them was when the snow melted nearly a month ago. Plenty of time since then for lots of red diesel, farm yard soil, actual soil and sundry other corruption to build up. This morning's drizzly dampness has made a fine slick out of that lot.

The front wheel twitched horribly as I turned a 90' right hander, and I clenched for impact, but somehow managed to keep upright.

Other than that - nice ride  :thumbsup:

After taking a fall on Friday (mending nicely thanks) I went back and had a look.  Where the car tyres run isn't too bad, but there's a line of slime in between that I'd have done much better to stay off.  I've heard of so many people who've had tumbles this last week, including a guy from the club-run who's now in hospital with broken femur and collarbone.  Running in to work this morning, I was even losing traction under my feet  :o.  It's worse than the snow!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 29 February, 2012, 11:07:28 am
Quote from: Adrian on 29 February, 2012, 09:49:02 am
It was a "I thought you had gone" situation waiting to get onto the Elephant & Castle gyratory.

 :facepalm:

I've had exactly the same happen to me at exactly the same place - driver looking right to check nothing's coming from that direction, but not looking at what's in front of them. Fortunately, I escaped without damage.

Oh well, glad you were unharmed at least.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 29 February, 2012, 12:47:12 pm
With todays commute I have done every day in February so approx 710miles  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dibdib on 29 February, 2012, 12:54:55 pm
After investing in a cheap rack and some even cheaper-looking panniers t'other day, my bike saw daylight for the first time in about six months for this morning's commute.

Despite three miles feeling more like thirty by the time I got to the office (dear $DEITY, I'm bloomin' unfit), now I've caught my breath I actually feel pretty good about getting back on two wheels again. Next target? Get back into the habit properly and have a full week of commuting. Thirty miles a week for a couple of months and a few less takeaways should help shift some of this beer belly...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 29 February, 2012, 12:58:18 pm
Excellent work, Dibdib. You'll be looking for the long way home before you know it!

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dibdib on 29 February, 2012, 01:01:35 pm
Cheers D. To be honest, it sounds daft but it'd been so long that the thought of riding to work wasn't something I was looking forward to (and especially getting out of bed early for it). I was lurking around here yesterday evening trying to psyche myself up for it  ;D

As for the long way home, I suppose there are a few scenic diversions I could take once I get a bit of fitness back!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 29 February, 2012, 01:03:31 pm
Good work, Dibdib!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 29 February, 2012, 01:22:48 pm
On this mornings ride in I spied a cyclist ahead on the flat approach to Quarry Wood Road. I recognised the general appearance as being a rider I generally see ahead of me after I negotiate the hairpin on the climb so thought today was my chance to reel him in and take him on the climb- Commuter Race was on!

I gained about 20 yards on him before turning on to the climb then slowly reeled him in to about a 100 yard gap at the hairpin. I usually negotiate the bend on the centre line to avoid the bastard steep apex but today i was being tailed by a van so took the inside line. Big mistake. The bastard steep apex combined wit this morning being the first experiment in riding in and eating breakfast after arrival meant I died after the bend and had to let him go. He was about 250 yards ahead as he dissapeared behind the trees at the top of the climb.

Commuter Race Fail  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 29 February, 2012, 01:33:20 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 29 February, 2012, 11:07:28 am
Quote from: Adrian on 29 February, 2012, 09:49:02 am
It was a "I thought you had gone" situation waiting to get onto the Elephant & Castle gyratory.

 :facepalm:

I've had exactly the same happen to me at exactly the same place - driver looking right to check nothing's coming from that direction, but not looking at what's in front of them. Fortunately, I escaped without damage.

Oh well, glad you were unharmed at least.

d.
I actually let it influence me to change my route this morning, which is not really like me. I approached Southwark Bridge via The Cut and Union Street. It is a bit nicer that way, unlike the cycle superhighway E&C bypass which is just silly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 29 February, 2012, 01:51:18 pm
I spotted what has to be the first harbinger of spring today.  The first sighting of one my commute's seasonal cyclists, this one was sedate stripey socks lady.

No sign yet of 'lesser spotted Castelli RLJ fixie chick' or my dreaded nemesis, 'quicker than me bloke with ludicrously short running shorts onna Trek'.

I'm actually looking forward to the last one, I'm three stone lighter and will be seeking satisfaction from the bounder!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 29 February, 2012, 05:21:42 pm
Quote from: Gandalf on 29 February, 2012, 01:51:18 pm
I spotted what has to be the first harbinger of spring today.

The first harbinger of spring gave me rather a rude awakening yesterday. As I turned sharp left off the road onto the cycle path my back wheel broke away in a lovely slide. The council have only gone and cut the grass (in February!!!) leaving a spill of 2 stroke in the middle of the path when they've topped up the mower fuel tank... They always fill on the cycle path so that they don't "contaminate the grass".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 29 February, 2012, 06:19:25 pm
Quote from: PaulF on 27 February, 2012, 12:59:50 pm
Quote from: fungus on 27 February, 2012, 12:54:08 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 25 February, 2012, 09:26:03 pm
Anyone cycling west tonight? How mad is venus and jupiter dead next to the moon on its back?!

Which one was which  ???

Nearest the moon ..........
Further away ...........

Look over to the left a bit later on and you'll see Mars too.

Venus was below and to the left of the moon, Jupiter higher and to the left of the moon. At least at 7pm from my vantage point in SW London, observers in more far flung places may have had a different view :D

Look over to the left, 90 degrees or so, a bit later on, and you'll see Mars.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 29 February, 2012, 07:44:25 pm
I wondered what was happening at Stratford on my way home - it was total gridlock and miles of solid traffic (going nowhere). Turns out it was a Taxi demonstration. Well I never.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 29 February, 2012, 07:56:08 pm
Well, it's definitely the season where the Marathon Plus earn their weight. The hedges along the valley road from Diss to Redgrave have been "done" today.

The road at the T-Junction with the B1113 was littered with bludgeonings and thorny goodness (I hesitate to use the word "trimmings", for that would imply that they trim the hedges, which of course they don't; instead they bludgeon them to fucking smithereens with Flails of Deth) .

Problem is - it's not forecast to rain round here until sometime in late June, so the stuff just lays in wait for when I put on summer tyres  :facepalm:.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 29 February, 2012, 08:04:54 pm
Quote from: Ham on 29 February, 2012, 07:44:25 pm
I wondered what was happening at Stratford on my way home - it was total gridlock and miles of solid traffic (going nowhere). Turns out it was a Taxi demonstration. Well I never.
Surely Taxis have been around long enough not to need demonstrating.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 29 February, 2012, 08:22:25 pm
Love it! Cyclists demonstrate, and taxis are gridlocked. Taxis demonstrate, and cyclists carry on much as normal.
Title: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 29 February, 2012, 08:25:26 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 29 February, 2012, 08:03:35 am
Quote from: Si_Co on 29 February, 2012, 07:46:24 am
A bit tough this morning, paying for last nights exuberance of 10 mile in 29 mins, not exactly TT speed but quick enough after a lay off.
You did a sub 30 ten and you say it's not quick enough? Git. :)

+1

Best I can ever manage is 40 💩
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 29 February, 2012, 08:38:24 pm
I've been towing my trailer to work then to the tip at lunchtime, then to lunch, back to work. Then home. It's 22.4km and I've gone from a 1h10 round trip to 58 minutes now. From under 20kph moving average to 23.1 today. It is quite good exercise riding even with the trailer empty and on fixed. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 29 February, 2012, 09:10:45 pm
Dumped lots of stuff?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 29 February, 2012, 09:22:14 pm
Yes, decluttering. Recyclable stuff that's too bulky for the kerbside collections.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 01 March, 2012, 07:52:03 am
Glorious, these are the mornings that make slogging through the wind, rain, ice and snow worth it. Lovin the mist  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 01 March, 2012, 09:08:59 am
Yes, it was lovely this morning. Lots of miserable women driving across the common in beautiful weather. ??? The lorry right across the road managing to block traffic from four directions simultaneously was fun - we sailed by, not envying the drivers one little bit!  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 01 March, 2012, 09:48:12 am
First morning no lights, a glorious day.

That may have been due to oversleeping by an hour, and I may have had to deal with the West London school run  :sick: but all in all, bloody fantastic. Must do it more often.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 01 March, 2012, 10:07:10 am
Misty and surprisingly cold (40) here in Swansea.

I saw a bike commuter (which is a rarity) ahead of me with a couple of miles to go and caught up gradually. I wasn’t in the mood for a challenge until I recognized the back-pack and extra-long seatpost and realized (assuming the ‘girl’ who monopolizes one of the two showers between 7 and 7:30 was already there) that this was a race for the one remaining shower.  I managed to overtake and put a bit of space between us, but he was a non-faffer and ‘overtook’ me in the bike shed, resulting in a 10-minute wait for me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 01 March, 2012, 10:28:45 am
I actually got to speak to another cyclist this morning. They came up alongside me on the A64, on a wide cycle lane. Very nice looking purple and silver Woodrup.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 01 March, 2012, 11:30:58 am
I spoke to two people. One was at the P&R site waiting for the CTC Thursday ride, so I stopped for a chat. The other was a guy pulling his fishing gear on a trolley behind him, he was very interested in my trailer.  ;D

Gorgeous weather, too!  More of this please.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: corshamjim on 01 March, 2012, 12:38:23 pm
A close overtake this morning as a car was coming the other way.  Thankfully that sort of thing is unusual on my quiet route to work, but I responded with a rude hand signal which I really ought to get out of the habit of using.   :-[   I've decided in future I'm going to make a sign of the cross instead.  Such morons deserve pity.   O:-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 March, 2012, 12:44:23 pm
Quote from: NOTcorshamjim on 01 March, 2012, 12:38:23 pm
A close overtake this morning as a car was coming the other way.  Thankfully that sort of thing is unusual on my quiet route to work, but I responded with a rude hand signal which I really ought to get out of the habit of using.   :-[   I've decided in future I'm going to make a sign of the cross instead.  Such morons deserve piety.   O:-)

FTFY
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 01 March, 2012, 12:52:28 pm
Quote from: corshamjim on 01 March, 2012, 12:38:23 pm
A close overtake this morning as a car was coming the other way.  Thankfully that sort of thing is unusual on my quiet route to work, but I responded with a rude hand signal which I really ought to get out of the habit of using.   :-[   I've decided in future I'm going to make a sign of the cross instead.  Such morons deserve pity.   O:-)

I wave vigorously at them (as in 'helloooo').

I think I'm trying to let them know I exist and that there's a nice human being on the bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: corshamjim on 01 March, 2012, 12:59:40 pm
Quote from: clarion on 01 March, 2012, 12:44:23 pm
Quote from: NOTcorshamjim on 01 March, 2012, 12:38:23 pm
A close overtake this morning as a car was coming the other way.  Thankfully that sort of thing is unusual on my quiet route to work, but I responded with a rude hand signal which I really ought to get out of the habit of using.   :-[   I've decided in future I'm going to make a sign of the cross instead.  Such morons deserve pity.   O:-)

I agree wholeheartedly.

Thank you.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 March, 2012, 01:05:46 pm
That too. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 01 March, 2012, 01:55:06 pm
Let me pass on an observation from this morning's journey, part of which was shared with a chap in front, reasonably fast, a person who stopped at lights, moved off fast after, I'd assess as a regular commuter. He and I shared about a couple of miles, I stayed behind, but essentially had the same ride.

Except, his ride was very different to mine.

All started coming up to a roadworks pinch point. He hadn't looked behind, stuck his arm out to signal, rode out and was clearly very annoyed by a close pass. Me? I'd seen the truck and pulled back (this was at the start of our short liaison and why I deliberately followed and observed). A little later in slow moving traffic, he is moving faster than a left indicating car and undertakes, the car then overtakes and turns left in front, again to his annoyance. Over the space of 2 - 3 miles he managed to have another couple of minor negative interactions with other road users of varying degrees.

Interesting. Plays back to a thread I started a while back, Roads Half Empty, Roads Half Full (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=47898.0)  - this is exactly what I was referring to. Same road, different ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 01 March, 2012, 01:57:09 pm
It does sound like you're doing a much better job of correcting for others' mistakes than he was. OTOH, just because he's less good at that, should he still have to accept the others' mistakes?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 01 March, 2012, 02:04:17 pm
Used a hire bike again today, as I did on Tuesday and Wednesday.  Only reason having trouble getting out of bed in the morning. :(  This is in sharp contrast to previous months of frequently interrupted sleep and being up before 5 every day.

In spite of the fact I'm only getting in 4-6km a day (as opposed to at least 22km), I'm enjoying it.  Just wish they were already available further east - I can make each leg at least 4.5km.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 01 March, 2012, 02:07:08 pm
I think we all have different annoyance thresholds.  Sometimes I see cyclists throwing hissies at what seem to me to be mildly irritating but not aggressive or dangerous acts; other times I am stunned by the calm attitude of someone who has had a near death encounter with a driver from Hell.  You see the same when driving or even just walking down the street sometimes.

I try to be in the latter camp because it makes for an all together more pleasant day but I admit that on occasions I can quickly move into the former. Then, on reflection, I often feel a bit of a prick for losing my cool.

But, as we've discussed elsewhere, some people are also better or more experienced at anticipating what might happen and avoiding conflict.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 01 March, 2012, 02:09:10 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 01 March, 2012, 01:57:09 pm
It does sound like you're doing a much better job of correcting for others' mistakes than he was. OTOH, just because he's less good at that, should he still have to accept the others' mistakes?
Undertaking a left indicating car.

I imagine a court would apportion the majority of blame to the cyclist should an accident have occurred.

"... should he still have to accept the others' mistakes?"

I think he would have to accept that he made an error (undertaking a left indicating car) which was worse than the error of the car turning left without checking on the inside.

Of course actual events are everything, so if he had managed to pull ahead of the car and into the clear view of the driver, then blame should shift appropriately, and he shouldn't have to accept the mistakes of others, but he should be smart enough to realise that his actions were the root cause of his ending up on the deck.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 01 March, 2012, 03:07:08 pm
I didn't want to start another major "who rides best" theme. Let me say that he was riding well and safely, and none of the annoyances were truly dangerous.

My point was only: same ride, different experience.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 01 March, 2012, 03:31:45 pm
Fair enough Hatler, I was just thinking more about the close pass when I wrote that. My point is sure, the better we ride the better for everyone, but on the other hand we should be very careful not to excuse the fairly obviously described incidents of bad driving in Ham's topic. We're not all perfect, and most times something serious happens it's taken more than one mistake to make it happen.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 01 March, 2012, 03:37:45 pm
3 days, 3 different bikes.

Onna brommie today because I'm off on a train soon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oscar's dad on 01 March, 2012, 06:59:57 pm
My next commute home to Essex from London is likely to be next Wednesday.  Those of you that have expressed an interest (and I remember who you are) have just been sent a PM.  Same drill as last time, grand depart from Paul Street at 1800hrs.  Please note, this plan could be subject to last minute changes so please don't make a special effort if you are thinking of tagging along. 

Rather than take up lots of room in this thread it's probably better if we make arrangements via PM.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 March, 2012, 07:01:14 pm
My commute home today was a bit unusual, because I wasn't at my usual work.  I went from Waterloo to London Bridge to pick something up, then back to Waterloo and round to Lambeth Bridge.  Along Embankment to Putney, then up Putney Hill and down into Wimbledon.  Up over Rose Hill and down home.  Beating, on fixed (with a slightly sticking rear brake), two hills which cause me trouble on my tourer when I first came to London.  Having now ridden up Gipsy Hill, College Road, Richmond Park and that stupid road in Wimbledon, I think I've now done on fixed every London hill which once made me get off and walk.  Mind you, I've never ridden Swain's Lane. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 01 March, 2012, 07:15:50 pm
Quote from: clarion on 01 March, 2012, 07:01:14 pm
My commute home today was a bit unusual, because I wasn't at my usual work.  I went from Waterloo to London Bridge to pick something up, then back to Waterloo and round to Lambeth Bridge.  Along Embankment to Putney, then up Putney Hill and down into Wimbledon.  Up over Rose Hill and down home.  Beating, on fixed (with a slightly sticking rear brake), two hills which cause me trouble on my tourer when I first came to London.  Having now ridden up Gipsy Hill, College Road, Richmond Park and that stupid road in Wimbledon, I think I've now done on fixed every London hill which once made me get off and walk.  Mind you, I've never ridden Swain's Lane. ;D

Never you mind Swains Lane.
Two words:
Canonbie Road.  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 March, 2012, 07:29:22 pm
I shall waste no time in searching it out ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 01 March, 2012, 07:32:26 pm
Quote from: clarion on 01 March, 2012, 07:29:22 pm
I shall waste no time in searching it out ;)

Its a short, sharp, shock.
Come round for tea after you've finished admiring the views from the top.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 01 March, 2012, 07:42:18 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 01 March, 2012, 07:32:26 pm
Quote from: clarion on 01 March, 2012, 07:29:22 pm
I shall waste no time in searching it out ;)

Its a short, sharp, shock.
Come round for tea after you've finished admiring the views from the top.

Also confirm your brakes are working well before abandoning all good sense to the exuberant excess of gravity. Especially if it's rainy. Don't ask how I know.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 March, 2012, 07:45:16 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 01 March, 2012, 07:32:26 pm
Quote from: clarion on 01 March, 2012, 07:29:22 pm
I shall waste no time in searching it out ;)

Its a short, sharp, shock.
Come round for tea after you've finished admiring the views from the top.

I suspect you mean after I've finished spewing my lungs up.  Perhaps one for another day...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 01 March, 2012, 07:49:53 pm
 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 01 March, 2012, 07:59:21 pm
Quote from: clarion on 01 March, 2012, 07:01:14 pm
Mind you, I've never ridden Swain's Lane. ;D

I plan to start riding my Hampstead-Highgate Hijinks route, which includes a climb or three of Swains, once again.  You're welcome to tag along. :)

Please note I shall have a plethora of gears on my bike.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 01 March, 2012, 08:42:44 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 01 March, 2012, 07:32:26 pm
Quote from: clarion on 01 March, 2012, 07:29:22 pm
I shall waste no time in searching it out ;)

Its a short, sharp, shock.
Come round for tea after you've finished admiring the views from the top.

Cracking photo in this report of the London Classic http://2wheelchick.blogspot.com/2011/05/classic-in-london.html

This isn't too far from me - I think I need to go and have a look, from the top
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 01 March, 2012, 10:57:02 pm
2hours to get home. Partly due to the puncture, but mostly because I rode bask with master Charly, who had ridden in earlier in the day. His legs fell off about half way home, which was a bit of a shock to him <g>
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 01 March, 2012, 10:58:40 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 01 March, 2012, 10:57:02 pm
2hours to get home. Partly due to the puncture, but mostly because I rode bask with master Charly, who had ridden in earlier in the day. His legs fell off about half way home, which was a bit of a shock to him <g>

Ah, bless.  Have a cup of tea and put your feet up pet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 02 March, 2012, 04:48:02 am
It is going to be tricky as it is pea soup out there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 02 March, 2012, 05:20:42 am
Yesterday the traffic got to me, quite a lot. The lighter mornings are much worse, and I was speculating that lighter mornings mean it is clearer I am 'just a cyclist' and therefore undeserving of courtesy.
Or it could be that it isn't worse, it's just that Things are stressing me, and my tolerance is paper thin.
Either way, I'm not loving it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 02 March, 2012, 06:25:17 am
It isn't just you, I've noticed it too. The lighter mornings are infinitely worse for close passes and general dilligafitis.

I haven't had time to review the footage yet, but I think ai bagged  two blatant RLJS , one of whom shot through on red and left hooked me while I was waiting.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 02 March, 2012, 08:51:40 am
That was rather pleasant. :)  It was good to be back on the Hewitt.

Have only two minor grumbles:
1) It wasn't nearly foggy enough
2) Ended up 0.08km shy of an even 20km.  Must try harder on the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 02 March, 2012, 08:53:56 am
You know that point at which bullying stops makes you angry, and just makes you crumble and want to curl up and die?

That.

I thought I'd forgotten my phone this morning. If I'd realised I'd had it, instead of inching out of the verge and riding on, shaky and tearful, I'd have phoned work and told them to f*ck their job, it's shit, and not worth getting killed for.

There's thick fog, but it's not as thick as drivers who think it's still OK to overtake on a blind corner. It's not. Because O LOOK there's a car coming the other way, you have to swerve in to what little of the road you'd left for me, leaving, well, no road for me.

I'm riding from (around) RAF Honington to Thetford. Please god someone find me something less unpleasant than the A1088 or the A134.
I might ask The Boss if I can change my hours, maybe if I was an hour earlier there'd be fewer bastards in such a hurry?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 02 March, 2012, 09:08:41 am
Quote from: Jurek on 01 March, 2012, 07:15:50 pm
Quote from: clarion on 01 March, 2012, 07:01:14 pm
My commute home today was a bit unusual, because I wasn't at my usual work.  I went from Waterloo to London Bridge to pick something up, then back to Waterloo and round to Lambeth Bridge.  Along Embankment to Putney, then up Putney Hill and down into Wimbledon.  Up over Rose Hill and down home.  Beating, on fixed (with a slightly sticking rear brake), two hills which cause me trouble on my tourer when I first came to London.  Having now ridden up Gipsy Hill, College Road, Richmond Park and that stupid road in Wimbledon, I think I've now done
on fixed every London hill which once made me get off and walk.  Mind you, I've never ridden Swain's Lane. ;D

Never you mind Swains Lane.
Two words:
Canonbie Road.  ;)
The only hill I've ever bust a chain on.  One side is much shorter and steeper than the other though.  It used to be part of my early morning ride on which I tried to include every peak in the area.  Part of this run got incorporated into the famous Peaks of Lewisham ride led by the inimitable fhills during Bike Week for a few years now.
(cough, cough, splutter, splutter, returns to sofa amid piles of tissues and gulps down a shot of day nurse- no commute today for me).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 02 March, 2012, 09:17:17 am
Quote from: fboab on 02 March, 2012, 08:53:56 am
There's thick fog, but it's not as thick as drivers who think it's still OK to overtake on a blind corner. It's not. Because O LOOK there's a car coming the other way, you have to swerve in to what little of the road you'd left for me, leaving, well, no road for me.

I'm riding from (around) RAF Honington to Thetford. Please god someone find me something less unpleasant than the A1088 or the A134.
I might ask The Boss if I can change my hours, maybe if I was an hour earlier there'd be fewer bastards in such a hurry?

That sounds really nasty B >:(. I hope you have a nice calm morning to recover. I should think it's definitely worth asking about going in earlier - I know our commutes are rather different (!) but it made a lot of difference to me - I miss most of the school runs now, which means missing a lot of grumpy people who aren't concentrating and who are already harrassed. I don't avoid them all, but it's much better. Have a virtual tea/gin/calmingbeverageofchoice  :-*
Also if you start an hour earlier, can you finish an hour earlier and have more useful day to yourself :thumbsup: (That didn't work for me - I went from 9 or 10 hour days to 11 hour days  ;D)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 02 March, 2012, 09:22:22 am
Quote from: Redlight on 01 March, 2012, 08:42:44 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 01 March, 2012, 07:32:26 pm
Quote from: clarion on 01 March, 2012, 07:29:22 pm
I shall waste no time in searching it out ;)

Its a short, sharp, shock.

Come round for tea after you've finished admiring the views from the top.

Cracking photo in this report of the London Classic http://2wheelchick.blogspot.com/2011/05/classic-in-
london.html

This isn't too far from me - I think I need to go and have a look, from the top
I am just around the corner.  Pop in for a cuppa when you do. 
We have some terrific viewpoints in this part of the world.  Far better, IMHO, than the more famous ones
north of the river. From the top of Blythe Hill, you get an almost 360 degree view of London, you can get a great view of the city plus a bit of offroading thrown in for free, at the top of One Tree Hill and the sweeping view of the city as you glide down from Horniman Gardens back to Westwood Park is lovely, especially at night.
I am seriously OT here so will clear off back to crumpled tissue land.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 02 March, 2012, 09:25:23 am
Quote from: ian on 01 March, 2012, 07:42:18 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 01 March, 2012, 07:32:26 pm
Quote from: clarion on 01 March, 2012, 07:29:22 pm
I shall waste no time in searching it out ;)

Its a short, sharp, shock.
Come round for tea after you've finished admiring the views from the top.

Also confirm your brakes are working well before abandoning all good sense to the exuberant excess of gravity. Especially if it's rainy. Don't ask how I know.
On last year's Peaks of Lewisham Ride, a young courier did it fixed. And brakeless. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 02 March, 2012, 09:29:33 am
Quote from: fboab on 02 March, 2012, 08:53:56 am
You know that point at which bullying stops makes you angry, and just makes you crumble and want to curl up and die?

That.

I thought I'd forgotten my phone this morning. If I'd realised I'd had it, instead of inching out of the verge and riding on, shaky and tearful, I'd have phoned work and told them to f*ck their job, it's shit, and not worth getting killed for.

There's thick fog, but it's not as thick as drivers who think it's still OK to overtake on a blind corner. It's not. Because O LOOK there's a car coming the other way, you have to swerve in to what little of the road you'd left for me, leaving, well, no road for me.

I'm riding from (around) RAF Honington to Thetford. Please god someone find me something less unpleasant than the A1088 or the A134.
I might ask The Boss if I can change my hours, maybe if I was an hour earlier there'd be fewer bastards in such a hurry?
Sorry to read this.

You might find even 20minutes makes a difference. It certainly does on my commute. A bit less traffic and the drivers are generally more relaxed (presumably because they aren't running late for work).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 02 March, 2012, 09:31:14 am
I do hope it wasn’t me wot gave you the lurgy Jane. I was in bed all weekend with it, alternately out cold and cursing the fact that the weather was so good and I was stuck inside. And now the lurgy is mostly gone but it’s left me with a constant exhausted, worn-out feeling.

Sorry to hear of your nasty commute fboab. I’ve been there. It was so bad I stopped cycling at all for much of last year, but I understand you need to cycle commute in this job. I hope someone more familiar with the area can make some alternative route suggestions or that you are able to change the timings.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 02 March, 2012, 09:39:25 am
Shame, FBOAB, I have every sympathy. This stuff is what I so hate about the worst minority of drivers, and I'm so thankful that the vast majority are quite different.

I had a bad taxi incident last Thursday, and I was left feeling so sick about it all that I couldn't do the video until Weds/yesterday. Feeling much better now though, and I'm about to report the blighter to RoadSafe, and on a collision report. Just aggressive pushing up to me, then nasty unadulterated lying to cover up what he did, followed by a horrible moment of jaw-drop for him when he realised he was faced with a several of cameras.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 02 March, 2012, 09:40:01 am
10km with some excellent MP3 accompaniment, 2 scalps (normally never see another cyclist going in my direction!) including a natter with one of 'em before leaving them behind, a few impressively considerate overtakes including a Range Rover and an HGV and some excellent opportunities to vent the week's anger with some finely worded sweary_shouty_ranting* at the idiots who tried to left hook me, passed me way too close and, in one case, overtook me when I was riding in primary through the short section with double whites. Because it is a series of blind corners. I mean, I know I'm not Fast fast, but I was doing 31kph at the time. Ah.... Friday commute, I have missed you.

* by which I do mean of the kind almost worthy of fboab with a full head of steam.  At a volume almost worthy of Wow with the projection tuned up to 11.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 02 March, 2012, 09:47:13 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 02 March, 2012, 09:31:14 am
I do hope it wasn’t me wot gave you the lurgy Jane. I was in bed all weekend with it, alternately out cold and cursing the fact that the weather was so good and I was stuck inside. And now the lurgy is mostly gone but it’s left me with a constant exhausted, worn-out feeling.

Sorry to hear of your nasty commute fboab. I’ve been there. It was so bad I stopped cycling at all for much of last year, but I understand you need to cycle commute in this job. I hope someone more familiar with the area can
make some alternative route suggestions or that you are able to change the timings.
NSTN, I work in a primary school amongst hundreds of young humans, a fair-sized percentage of which will be brimming with lurgy at any point in time. 
fboab, only just seen your post in NSTN's.  Changing times might well help. It makes a lot of difference on London streets, so I'm guessing an earlier time where you are will mean less busy roads too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 02 March, 2012, 09:50:54 am
A very bad caase of Friday legs here  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 02 March, 2012, 10:24:37 am
Quote from: clarion on 01 March, 2012, 07:01:14 pm
Having now ridden up Gipsy Hill, College Road, Richmond Park and that stupid road in Wimbledon, I think I've now done on fixed every London hill which once made me get off and walk.  Mind you, I've never ridden Swain's Lane. ;D

I've never attempted Gipsy Hill on fixed, but I can do Maze Hill in Greenwich, which I think is comparable.

I've just looked up Swain's Lane... oh, that road. I know it by sight but not by name. Don't think I'll be making a detour to try it any time soon.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 02 March, 2012, 10:51:50 am
Quote from: jane on 02 March, 2012, 09:25:23 am
Quote from: ian on 01 March, 2012, 07:42:18 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 01 March, 2012, 07:32:26 pm
Quote from: clarion on 01 March, 2012, 07:29:22 pm
I shall waste no time in searching it out ;)

Its a short, sharp, shock.
Come round for tea after you've finished admiring the views from the top.

Also confirm your brakes are working well before abandoning all good sense to the exuberant excess of gravity. Especially if it's rainy. Don't ask how I know.
On last year's Peaks of Lewisham Ride, a young courier did it fixed. And brakeless.

And he had broken ribs IIRC.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 02 March, 2012, 11:09:50 am
Quote from: fboab on 02 March, 2012, 08:53:56 am
There's thick fog, but it's not as thick as drivers who think it's still OK to overtake on a blind corner. It's not. Because O LOOK there's a car coming the other way, you have to swerve in to what little of the road you'd left for me, leaving, well, no road for me.

I almost had a similar run-in - there's a narrow, blind bend on my route to the station. As I reached the apex of the bend I was aware of a car coming up fast behind, but what I could see and he couldn't was that there was a car coming the other way. I frantically waved my arm to indicate that he should stay behind me but he went anyway. Luckily, the oncoming car wasn't quite close enough to cause problems, but the overtaking numpty still had to swerve in pretty sharply after passing me, and the one behind him who was planning to follow suit had to brake pretty sharply to avoid running into the back of me.

But that was just one of many incidences of selfish, aggressive driving I witnessed this morning. I don't get it. The motons were unfuckingbelievable this morning. And in conditions that really warranted more care than usual.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 02 March, 2012, 11:35:11 am
fboab, sounds horrid and I know rural is different from city, but there is no question that traffic changes character according to the time, each time has its own challenges and fun bits, focussing on the fun bits is the trick. Yesterday when I started off an hour later before I started off I was dreading the crowds (cyclicsts and peds) and the school run, as compared to my normal 6:30 start. What I had forgotten was that the bus lanes would be clearer, the sun would be out, and I ended up with an huuuge smile on my face.

Don't let the bastards grind you down, and try not to let it build as a big problem in your mind. Easier said than done, but you do know you can do it and do it happily. Hope it gets better for you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 March, 2012, 12:19:41 pm
Oh boab, that's awful.  I completely understand your reaction.  Changing hours may well help.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 02 March, 2012, 12:55:12 pm
Last day on the winter bike today until it gets a complete overhaul, the chain is so stretched that it's slipping whenever I put some welly down  :(  It's done a fair few miles since I bought it in August 2009 so can't complain.
I'll strip it down & clean it tomorrow before dropping it off at the LBS for some TLC  :-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 02 March, 2012, 01:53:38 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 02 March, 2012, 09:39:25 am
Shame, FBOAB, I have every sympathy. This stuff is what I so hate about the worst minority of drivers, and I'm so thankful that the vast majority are quite different.

I had a bad taxi incident last Thursday, and I was left feeling so sick about it all that I couldn't do the video until Weds/yesterday. Feeling much better now though, and I'm about to report the blighter to RoadSafe, and on a collision report. Just aggressive pushing up to me, then nasty unadulterated lying to cover up what he did, followed by a horrible moment of jaw-drop for him when he realised he was faced with a several of cameras.

Nasty. The footage up?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 02 March, 2012, 02:20:23 pm
Quote from: fboab on 02 March, 2012, 08:53:56 am

I'm riding from (around) RAF Honington to Thetford. Please god someone find me something less unpleasant than the A1088 or the A134.


I don't know the details of your journey, but does the Icknield Way Trail help at all?  Runs NE from the A134 near the back end of RAF Honington to Euston.

<stops giving egg sucking lessons>
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 02 March, 2012, 02:36:16 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 02 March, 2012, 02:20:23 pm
Quote from: fboab on 02 March, 2012, 08:53:56 am

I'm riding from (around) RAF Honington to Thetford. Please god someone find me something less unpleasant than the A1088 or the A134.


I don't know the details of your journey, but does the Icknield Way Trail help at all?  Runs NE from the A134 near the back end of RAF Honington to Euston.

<stops giving egg sucking lessons>
I thought that was footpath?

Today's incident was here (http://www.streetmap.co.uk/map.srf?X=589880&Y=278054&A=Y&Z=120&ax=589825&ay=277869), so would be avoided, as well as the '30mph? Not for me' through Fakenham Magna blind corners. It only adds 2km, so better than the 5km added by diverting through Rushford.

I ride to work on a 68" fixed wheel bike running 25x700 tyres. It might be novel to shake myself together a single speed commuter.
Perhaps I could view this as not an n+1 opportunity but an n=n conversion, moving n (the Trek 4500) out of retirement....

I'll have a look tonight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 02 March, 2012, 03:06:32 pm
Quote from: fboab on 02 March, 2012, 02:36:16 pm

I thought that was footpath?

Looks like a BOAT to me (Byway Open to All Traffic) The cross bar on the path symbol is the give away. And it seems to pop up on the green lane forums. You might be in danger of being squished by a 4x4 getting it gripped and sorted.

Quote
Today's incident was here (http://www.streetmap.co.uk/map.srf?X=589880&Y=278054&A=Y&Z=120&ax=589825&ay=277869), so would be avoided, as well as the '30mph? Not for me' through Fakenham Magna blind corners. It only adds 2km, so better than the 5km added by diverting through Rushford.

I ride to work on a 68" fixed wheel bike running 25x700 tyres. It might be novel to shake myself together a single speed commuter.
Perhaps I could view this as not an n+1 opportunity but an n=n conversion, moving n (the Trek 4500) out of retirement....

I'll have a look tonight.

Good luck. And added bike fettling is always a bonus.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 02 March, 2012, 07:25:16 pm
That was horrible.

For complicated reasons, I ended up riding the pseudo commute this evening with no front light - not even a "be seen" light. As it got dark, I became everything I hate about stealth cyclists.

I'm really sorry to the two cyclists (well lit) coming the other way; especially the one riding on the outside; who shouted "Whooaahhh!!" as they passed and I (briefly) became visible.

Any oncoming car in the lanes, I stopped and waited for. On the wider roads, I kept riding - but none of them dipped their lights, which is not surprising as I was completely invisible.

I'm glad to still be alive TBH.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 02 March, 2012, 07:31:58 pm
I'm glad you are alive, too.  You can take this darkness thing too far!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 02 March, 2012, 07:33:31 pm
I tried out the Icknield Way. There was a lot of deep sand, too deep for the road bike. It was lovely and relaxing though, deer share the road much more pleasantly than cars do.

ETA: Picture
(http://i952.photobucket.com/albums/ae7/fboab/2012-03-02174943.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 02 March, 2012, 07:38:48 pm
Sandy tracks are a bit of a problem in the Brecks. It's not helped by the fact that it last rained properly way back in January :(.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonBuoy on 02 March, 2012, 07:50:15 pm
Quote from: fboab on 02 March, 2012, 07:33:31 pm
I tried out the Icknield Way. There was a lot of deep sand, too deep for the road bike. It was lovely and relaxing though, deer share the road much more pleasantly than cars do.

I did some riding round that area (including Honington to Thetford several times) a few years ago and seem to remember that some of the BOATs to the west of the A134 had pretty reasonable surfaces.  It was summer and I was on a mountain bike so my memory of 'reasonable' might be a bit distorted.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 02 March, 2012, 08:02:14 pm
Quote from: fboab on 02 March, 2012, 07:33:31 pm
I tried out the Icknield Way. There was a lot of deep sand, too deep for the road bike. It was lovely and relaxing though, deer share the road much more pleasantly than cars do.

n+1- Surley Pugsley fatbike. Problem of riding sand solved :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 02 March, 2012, 08:07:10 pm
So, apparently my mp3 player volume control doesn't work. Which, if you're an angry slow fat bird on a sturdy hybrid in the flatlands really means you only have one choice. Stick it in the big ring and see how long LOUD music and frustration will mean that you can keep it over 30 kph! 3 more scalps, and the fastest Friday commute ever :)

And now I just need to decide if it would be a bad idea, or a really bad idea, to take the gin to bed with me....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 02 March, 2012, 08:11:00 pm
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 02 March, 2012, 08:07:10 pm
So, apparently my mp3 player volume control doesn't work. Which, if you're an angry slow fat bird on a sturdy hybrid in the flatlands really means you only have one choice. Stick it in the big ring and see how long LOUD music and frustration will mean that you can keep it over 30 kph! 3 more scalps, and the fastest Friday commute ever :)

And now I just need to decide if it would be a bad idea, or a really bad idea, to take the gin to bed with me....

'SFriday innit?

The real question is, how do you want to feel tomorrow?  And is it worth it?

Choose well grasshopper  O:-)

 ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 02 March, 2012, 08:50:17 pm
On the brow of the hill, doing 20, I look up and a car is coming towards me at 35 on the wrong side of the road, already overtaking a car. That's the scariest for a long time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 02 March, 2012, 09:28:14 pm
Sorry that so many people had a rough day today. :(

Though my commute wasn't perfect, there were only annoyances.  Managed just over 41km today, doing pretty much the route I should be doing every day, both directions.  Really can't afford to have any commutes less than 30km if I want to stick to my plans.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 02 March, 2012, 09:39:11 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 02 March, 2012, 09:28:14 pm
Really can't afford to have any commutes less than 30km if I want to stick to my plans.

Each way? you could always ride with me  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 02 March, 2012, 09:44:54 pm
Quote from: fboab on 02 March, 2012, 07:33:31 pm
I tried out the Icknield Way. There was a lot of deep sand, too deep for the road bike. It was lovely and relaxing though, deer share the road much more pleasantly than cars do.

ETA: Picture
(http://i952.photobucket.com/albums/ae7/fboab/2012-03-02174943.jpg)

The Icknield definitely is legal on a bike and not a footpath. Icknield Way to the Peddars Way to Hunstanton on my mountain bike is on my "To do" list.
You're right, off roading is very relaxing, not having to watch out for idiots all the time.

Leaving home earlier can help shake off some loonies. I'm trying to get myself to get going to work about 5 minutes earlier. I don't have any hassle, but I do notice that the cyclepath I use has a shortage of sprogs on it if I get there a few minutes early.

Riding the same route, so that motorists change their behaviour seems to help too. I used to ride through a housing estate and I'd usualy be doing about 25mph, 30 was easily possible. At first, I always got people pulling out on me from side roads and driveways. That stopped after a few weeks.

It doesn't always work though. Narrow, twisty and busy roads are worst, like the A507 with it's grass verges littered by car debris. Some roads, I just avoid.
Panniers seem to help too. I think that drivers look at a rear wheel and think, "that's how wide a bike is" but if you have panniers, they look at the panniers and think...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 02 March, 2012, 09:46:01 pm
Quote from: fboab on 02 March, 2012, 07:33:31 pm
(http://i952.photobucket.com/albums/ae7/fboab/2012-03-02174943.jpg)

That looks suspiciously like the Sands Of Doom...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 03 March, 2012, 04:30:26 am
Quote from: Ham on 02 March, 2012, 09:39:11 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 02 March, 2012, 09:28:14 pm
Really can't afford to have any commutes less than 30km if I want to stick to my plans.

Each way? you could always ride with me  :demon:

 ;D  No, I'm talking round trip.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 03 March, 2012, 04:32:34 am
Quote from: fboab on 02 March, 2012, 07:33:31 pm
I tried out the Icknield Way. There was a lot of deep sand, too deep for the road bike. It was lovely and relaxing though, deer share the road much more pleasantly than cars do.

ETA: Picture
{ pic deleted }

That pic should have a NSFNSTN warning. ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 03 March, 2012, 01:48:52 pm
*twitches*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 03 March, 2012, 02:57:49 pm
Had the worst case of must get past the cyclist I've seen for quite a while. 20mph road, speed bumps, greasy conditions, I'm in primary following a car. A driver attempts an overtake before dropping back to brake for one of the speed bumps. I turn and give a slowing signal, look directly at the driver and say 'There is no where for you to go.' She shouts back 'Fuck off!' At this point I am slowing as the car in front is braking to a stop. The driver behind sees the opportunity and goes for the overtake. Unfortunately, the car ahead has stopped to allow a woman and her small child to cross the road at a zebra crossing. The overtaking driver passes both of us and slaloms over the crossing between the car ahead of me and an oncoming car that is forced to stop short, as are the woman and child.
I'll put together a statement and report this to the police tonight.

Video here (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-dpDvYrcFEI)

edited to add video link.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Speshact on 03 March, 2012, 03:09:16 pm
Very similar event with a cyclist at Millbank roundabout approaching Lambeth Bridge last week. A car stopped to let people use the zebra crossing. I stopped behind the car. A cyclist came past me and the car and slalomed in a two foot gap between the two people crossing. For once I really, really wished cyclists had number plates!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 04 March, 2012, 09:37:57 am
Holy cow, Ben, that was appalling! I hope they throw the book at that driver.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: plum on 04 March, 2012, 10:48:32 am
That was an absolute shocker.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 04 March, 2012, 11:07:16 am
Excellent footage of shit driving.  Well done.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 04 March, 2012, 09:15:39 pm
Quote from: plum on 04 March, 2012, 10:48:32 am
That was an absolute shocker.

All I can say is thank goodness the pedestrians were not in a hurry! I'd like to think the CPS would go to town on this one but I have little faith....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oscar's dad on 05 March, 2012, 07:06:35 am
Quote from: benborp on 03 March, 2012, 02:57:49 pm
Had the worst case of must get past the cyclist I've seen for quite a while ...

Dreadful!

In the experience of those of us that do use cameras like benborp, do lunatic drivers like this one actually get prosecuted?  I hope so, the driver in this video thoroughly deserves it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 05 March, 2012, 08:08:38 am
Yesterday saw snow and a horrible headwind.  Thankfully the wind was still blowing hard when I came home so I had quite a fast ride home, in places. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 05 March, 2012, 08:16:46 am
Quote from: benborp on 03 March, 2012, 02:57:49 pm
Had the worst case of must get past the cyclist I've seen for quite a while. 20mph road, speed bumps, greasy conditions, I'm in primary following a car. A driver attempts an overtake before dropping back to brake for one of the speed bumps. I turn and give a slowing signal, look directly at the driver and say 'There is no where for you to go.' She shouts back 'Fuck off!' At this point I am slowing as the car in front is braking to a stop. The driver behind sees the opportunity and goes for the overtake. Unfortunately, the car ahead has stopped to allow a woman and her small child to cross the road at a zebra crossing. The overtaking driver passes both of us and slaloms over the crossing between the car ahead of me and an oncoming car that is forced to stop short, as are the woman and child.
I'll put together a statement and report this to the police tonight.

Video here (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-dpDvYrcFEI)

edited to add video link.

… add to that: his speed too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 05 March, 2012, 09:19:07 am
Was forced to grind to a halt today by a freakishly strong gust of wind near Lambeth Bridge as I turned out of a side street; my one gear (and upright posture) forced me to stop. I had to walk a couple of feet until I got around a corner. Other cyclists were also making WTF faces; I suspect a lighter bike might have been blown over completely.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 05 March, 2012, 09:28:34 am
Jammed solid on Chiswick high road and ken high street. Apparently they are resurfacing the road in Hyde park next to the barracks, but have neglected to put any signs up at the left turn past the Albert memorial. So everyone is going left and then having to u turn. Chaos according to my better half. Thankfully I have to go no further than ken church street.

Windy too!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 March, 2012, 09:37:37 am
That was a bit blowy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 05 March, 2012, 09:40:07 am
Vile.

Weather, traffic, destination. All vile.

Fuck this for a game of soldiers, as they say.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 05 March, 2012, 09:40:24 am
Yup. Head on it was. This, combined with a two day spell in bed and not eating meant I was down to less than 10mph for much of today's commute. And I had three incredibly close passes. Is that how close motorists usually get to slower cyclists ?  I really hope not.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 05 March, 2012, 09:43:44 am
Ice?

Ice?

wtf is ice doing on the road?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: seraphina on 05 March, 2012, 09:45:30 am
Windy. Ridiculously so. Quite a few stretches of road where there was flooding the whole way across. For the first few miles I had wonderful considerate car drivers who gave lots of space and waited so I could pick my way through the shallowest bit in the middle of the road. Then came the BMW brigade >:(

I
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 05 March, 2012, 10:03:41 am
Well that was a disaster!  Rear wheel spoke snapped 4mile into my commute.  Managed to nurse it home with the brake fully open but I think the old ksyriums have finally been killed off  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 05 March, 2012, 10:15:07 am
Unsolicited apologies from two van drivers - one for a close pass at a mini-roundabout, the other for rolling back at me at a set of lights (I jumped out of the way).

Oh and it was windy. Should fly home tonight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Domestique on 05 March, 2012, 10:16:18 am
Quote from: Oscar's dad on 05 March, 2012, 07:06:35 am
Quote from: benborp on 03 March, 2012, 02:57:49 pm
Had the worst case of must get past the cyclist I've seen for quite a while ...

Dreadful!

In the experience of those of us that do use cameras like benborp, do lunatic drivers like this one actually get prosecuted?  I hope so, the driver in this video thoroughly deserves it.

Yes.
But I believe first point of contact with the Police is the key. We needed someone who rode a bike in our case, but that video by Ben any traffic cop should have their piss boiling when they see that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 05 March, 2012, 10:27:43 am
Quote from: benborp on 03 March, 2012, 02:57:49 pm
Had the worst case of must get past the cyclist I've seen for quite a while.

...


It's quite the road for this kind of thing, I've lost count of the number of times someone has tried to push past me and then has to brake hard immediately because there is a speed hump. Which shouldn't be a surprise as there is a speed hump every fifty metres or so. Since I'm doing about the same speed as the traffic, I've no idea what this spluttering attempt to overtake is supposed to achieve. If they do squeeze past, I usually pass them at the lights. I've had people push past, only for me to then have to slow down behind them as they then have an acute attack of speed hump caution. Oh bless their gleaming Lexus.

Bonus points though, all this happens outside a school. Hence all the traffic calming, speed limit, and zebras.

(Not sure if they have fixed it yet, but a car recently flattened the railings near the zebra outside the kindergarten.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 05 March, 2012, 10:29:14 am
Failing to stop on a crossing is one thing, but overtaking another car at a crossing is something else entirely. Add in the crossing pedestrians and there has to be a prosecution no?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 05 March, 2012, 10:54:16 am
Quote from: alexb on 05 March, 2012, 10:29:14 am
Failing to stop on a crossing is one thing, but overtaking another car at a crossing is something else entirely. Add in the crossing pedestrians and there has to be a prosecution no?

I should think a prosecution is a dead cert.  Zig zags are there for a reason.  The law is quite clear on that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dibdib on 05 March, 2012, 12:32:49 pm
Nothing as clench-inducing as the youtube vid above, but there seemed to be more oblivious dog-walkers than usual on my ride into work this morning. None of them on leads, of course, despite being a well-marked shared use path. Had a few pooches decide that jumping under my front tyre was a good idea.

Think I'll start taking a different route from now on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 05 March, 2012, 12:43:49 pm
Quote from: benborp on 03 March, 2012, 02:57:49 pm
20mph road, speed bumps, greasy conditions, I'm in primary following a car...

I was going to say that sounds similar to a stretch on my regular route where I often witness similar fuckwittery. Then I watched the video and realised your incident was in fact on the very same road I was thinking of...

Mind you, I've never yet witnessed anything quite as appalling as that. Glad you were able to capture it on video - let's hope the police throw the book at the arsehole.  >:(

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 05 March, 2012, 01:15:07 pm
What is it about Dulwich? Leafy, prosperous, mansion lined avenues with traffic calming and pretty much a 20mph limit throughout and yet I encounter more jaw-droppingly awful driving there than anywhere else. The junction in the village is the worst I know for RLJ vehicles. I frequently see cars mount the pavement on Fountain Drive and College Road in order to maintain 30mph+ by by-passing the speed bumps. There is no other part of London where I have to be so prepared to deal with oncoming cars suddenly crossing to my side of the road, it's an almost daily occurence.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 05 March, 2012, 01:21:51 pm
Quote from: benborp on 05 March, 2012, 01:15:07 pm
What is it about Dulwich? Leafy, prosperous, mansion lined avenues with traffic calming and pretty much a 20mph limit throughout and yet I encounter more jaw-droppingly awful driving there than anywhere else.

Odd isn't it? Some of the rudest, most aggressive, certainly most selfish driving I've come across over the years, has been in the leafy lanes of the poshest parts of Buckinghamshire and other home counties.

I guess prosperity encourages such behaviour, maybe? :shrugs:.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ana on 05 March, 2012, 01:57:58 pm
I regularly feel that the wealthy on cars see the cyclists as the wannabe rich and therefore crying to be treated with contempt ("can't you afford a car like everybody else?")

Not strictly today's commute, it was a few days ago, I told two different drivers (in two different occasions) that they need to allow me more space and I only got verbal abuse as a result.

I feel truly powerless and shaken and I wish I could do something about it but I guess without video footage it is useless, isn't it?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 05 March, 2012, 05:00:58 pm
On the very short way home today,

One lady, two kids (no seatbelts) in a Nissan Micra sorting out colouring in sheets on the steering wheel while driving and passing to the kids who stepped through the gap in the two front seats to get them.

Thought about shouting, but then thought what is the point.

Followed by at least 3 other drivers on their phones.

Welcome to Small Heath, Birmingham clearly attention central.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 05 March, 2012, 06:06:21 pm
You know when a car pulls up to a give way line and you just know they aren't going to look properly? (Maybe it was the crappy music booming from his open window...)

Never mind, my screeched warning stopped him in his tracks just as he went to SMIDSY me. Those who have been offroading with me will know the tone/volume.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: plum on 05 March, 2012, 06:10:20 pm
Quote from: davelodwig on 05 March, 2012, 05:00:58 pm
On the very short way home today,

One lady, two kids (no seatbelts) in a Nissan Micra sorting out colouring in sheets on the steering wheel while driving and passing to the kids who stepped through the gap in the two front seats to get them.

Thought about shouting, but then thought what is the point.

Followed by at least 3 other drivers on their phones.

Welcome to Small Heath, Birmingham clearly attention central.
I ride through Small Heath every day. I can confirm that there is no point.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 05 March, 2012, 06:16:06 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 05 March, 2012, 06:06:21 pm
Never mind, my screeched warning stopped him in his tracks just as he went to SMIDSY me. Those who have been offroading with me will know the tone/volume.

I thought I recognised that sound I heard earlier...  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 06 March, 2012, 07:32:14 am
Car today (gah), so I have to leave even earlier, and join the early morning pell-mell in the early morning half-light. To my way of thinking dusk and dawn are the most dangerous times on the road.

Coming around Whipps-X roundabout, typically taken at a fast sweeping join when there is no traffic; through my slightly obscured view I notice a cyclist on the roundabout and think mmmmph - ninja, except as she passes I realise from front and back she is lit up xmas tree like, just nothing from the side, no light showing, no reflectors. Just saying.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oscar's dad on 06 March, 2012, 07:53:46 am
Quote from: Ham on 06 March, 2012, 07:32:14 am
...except as she passes I realise from front and back she is lit up xmas tree like, just nothing from the side, no light showing, no reflectors. Just saying.

An excellent point and perhaps something that we inadvertently forget.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 06 March, 2012, 08:20:17 am
On the way in this morning,

Cycling in the left hand lane of an inner city dual carriageway, rigid lorry overtakes with plenty of room...

And then before he's past me indicates and starts turning left into the petrol station that I'm just about to cross the entrance to. Thankfully he realises and then stops in the road and waves me through, but cue beeping and shouting from the cars who've almost piled into the back of the lorry.

I was very good, I didn't shout or swear or anything, I really wanted to though.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 March, 2012, 08:50:57 am
Quote from: Oscar's dad on 06 March, 2012, 07:53:46 am
Quote from: Ham on 06 March, 2012, 07:32:14 am
...except as she passes I realise from front and back she is lit up xmas tree like, just nothing from the side, no light showing, no reflectors. Just saying.

An excellent point and perhaps something that we inadvertently forget.

I have lots of reflective tape on the frame of my commuter, some 3M spoke reflectors, and, since about a month ago, Marathon Plus with reflective sidewalls.

Added to which, there is reflective on my gloves, jacket and longs.  None on the side of my shoes, though.  I do like to be seen.

Of course, it makes no difference at all if a driver CBA to look.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 06 March, 2012, 09:21:10 am
(http://i952.photobucket.com/albums/ae7/fboab/2012-03-06074339.jpg)

I can say that
i) I didn't think it could get worse, yes it can. Half an hour later there are more, and more aggressive, vehicles on that road
ii) Thanks to taking The Wisdom of The Internets I have chain 'grease' in my hair- which I'd left loose and flowing in an effort to appear more like a person
iii) I've had enough

I know that the shipped chain (of course when I was frantically spinning at 40+kph) is my own fault, as is the state of my hair, my gloves, my hands.
The state of my nerves is this: completely fecked.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Oscar's dad on 06 March, 2012, 09:23:29 am
^^^ Oh mate, that's shit.  Have a hug  :-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 06 March, 2012, 09:40:29 am
Nice ride in this morning, but had to wait at the junction of Cedars Road and Queenstown Road whilst a guy in a white van stopped at the lights at the entrance to QTR to talk to a pedestrian on the central reservation. He managed to block the entire junction in all directions. The noise of the car horns and people shouting at him was horrendous and he completely fucking ignored them all. He was talking about revising a quotation for some building work.
Unbelievable.

After he set off he was doingt less than 20mph down Queenstown Road with a stream of cyclists trying to get down the inside of him before the bus lane.
I kept well clear. If he's that much of a sociopath he's certainly not going to be bothered if he nudges me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 06 March, 2012, 09:41:43 am
{{{{boab}}}}

I actually quite liked your idea of a gurt big feckoff sign saying "someone's daughter, someone's mum" on the back.  It seems to be that that is often the root of the problem... a lot of drivers see 'cyclist' not 'person'.  And, in fairness, we have a tendency to see 'drivers', not 'people'.  Although obviously one's perceptions and point of view is somewhat affected by being perched on a few joined up tubes as opposed to sitting in a comfy chair in an enclosed steel box.

Also , 40+kph?  Buggeration you're too fast for me, m'dear.  If you ever do drag me round that flat 200 I can see I am going to have to fill your luggage with a lot of cake.  And possibly bricks.

My commute today?  7km.  Bike.  Helped.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 March, 2012, 09:48:12 am
Just when life should really really be giving over with the throwing shit at boab thing. >:(

I had three notable incidents on my way to work, all in the few minutes between leaving Butterfly and turning into the car park.

1.  Pratfall.  And I was the prat.  I was riding down Brixton Hill in merging traffic, which speeded up, so I did, but I didn't leave enough space behind the car ahead.  I looked left for a space, then ran straight into the back of the car in front, which had stopped.  I didn't see the brake lights at all (which doesn't mean they weren't working, but it might).  I nearly stopped, but watched myself heading for the deck.  Two cyclists asked if I was OK, but only my pride was hurt.  Bike was OK, too (well built wheel from Spa took what force there was).  I'm amazed I didn't get any reaction from the car driver, because, despite the low speed, there was quite a thump.  No damage to the car, I'm pleased to report, though.  I collected myself for a few moments, mounted up and rode on.  What an idiot, though. >:(

2.  Elephant & Castle roundabout.  Stopped at the lights, I was in the RH lane for turning into New kent Road.  A BMW X1* alongside in the lane for going straight up Borough High St.  The driver wound down the window and asked,

'Why aren't you in the proper cycle lane?'**
'Because I'm turning right, and this is the correct lane'
Then we set off, and he started turning across me.  The car behind was also turning right.
'Ah!' i said, 'But you're in the wrong lane'

He tried shoving me across as we entered NKR, but he was heading for the bus lane, where there was a bus stopped.  He then accelerated to get ahead of me in the general lane, and made a stupidly close pass of the cyclist in front.

3.  On the road where I work, I was approaching a pinch point in primary at about 25mph.  A van from Axis Elevators made a stupid overtake with oncoming traffic, then sped off over the zebra crossing, past the busy construction site, through the other constrictions and past (or maybe to?) the large secondary school where students were arriving.  I'm awaiting a call back, but I shan't hold my breath.  Roadsafe for them.

*  What a risible car
** Actually a bus lane, but cycles, PTWs and taxis too, I believe.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 06 March, 2012, 10:53:14 am
Nothing interesting to report other than a lovely quiet commute home last night in the cold at 2230 - midnight hours.  Saw all of 5 cars and a couple of lorries, all very respectful of me and my bright lights.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 06 March, 2012, 11:30:06 am
Aww boab. If that happened to me in addition to shredded nerves I’d be a gibbering insensible wreck in a ditch by now, so you’re doing well.


Quote from: CrinklyLion on 06 March, 2012, 09:41:43 am
It seems to be that that is often the root of the problem... a lot of drivers see 'cyclist' not 'person'.  And, in fairness, we have a tendency to see 'drivers', not 'people'. 

This is the point I was trying to get across when ITV interviewed me before the flashride round Parliament square the other day; the fact that drivers often see an annoying obstacle rather than a human being. Unfortunately I am not a good speaker and amid saying some fairly sensible stuff about sharing the road and enforcing existing laws, in the glare of the camera I somehow ended up blurting out ‘Cyclists are people too!’ at one point in a rather shrill and embarrassing manner. Rob was nearly crying with laughter when it appeared on the Ten o'clock news; he recorded it on his phone and tortured me with it until I used threats to make him switch it off.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 06 March, 2012, 11:57:41 am
Quote from: clarion on 06 March, 2012, 09:48:12 am
Just when life should really really be giving over with the throwing shit at boab thing. >:(

Quite. Oi, You Up There, give it a rest with the throwing shit at boab shtick, she really doesn't deserve it.  >:(

Quote
Elephant & Castle roundabout ... BMW X1

An almost perfectly lethal combination.  :-\

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 06 March, 2012, 02:12:44 pm
I had every must overtake the cyclist into the non-existent gap pratt this lunchtime as I got back to Cambridge. Petrol isn’t expensive enough yet, clearly.

OTOH a nice man brought me my speedo that I’d dropped by my bike into the cafe I’m typing this in. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 06 March, 2012, 02:15:26 pm
*Virtually hugging BOAB*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 06 March, 2012, 02:18:07 pm
Poor BOAB, have a virtual hug.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 06 March, 2012, 04:56:54 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 06 March, 2012, 02:18:07 pm
Poor BOAB, have a virtual hug.

This, lots of.
Title: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 06 March, 2012, 07:36:58 pm
Post-work ride to Bromley was somewhat faster than usual - 43 minutes for the 18km including the usual stoppages and delays (traffic lights etc).

There may have been a slight suspicion of wind assistance. ;-D

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 06 March, 2012, 07:41:11 pm
Grrrr seriously Grrrr!  Twice I've nearly ridden into the back of cars today when they have practically stopped at islands that are completely clear of traffic & don't get me started on being blinded by oncoming motors with their main beam on (not fun going downhill at 40mph when suddenly you can't see where the **** your going)   :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 06 March, 2012, 07:46:06 pm
Two ridiculously passes today - by the same driver!  I swear he was trying to shave my legs with his wing mirror.  He was undertaking flowing   traffic on the New Kent Road but, of course, didn't actually get very far and I was able to sail past him without commenting after the first close shave. After the second, I tapped on the window and attempted to (politely) ask if he wouldn't mind giving a bit more room but was greeted with a torrent of four letter words and a threat to terminate my existence if I should have the temerity to touch his crappy little car again. 

Sigh  ::-)
Title: On the commute today
Post by: smurphboy on 06 March, 2012, 08:03:08 pm
Had some idiot try to pass me on the road works on North View. I set off from the lights into the single lane past the works only to hear someone revving hard. I look around and the jackass is trying to get into the lane before I do.

I brake as I have no desire to get hit and then he bottles it and backs off. He revs his people carrier and shouts something. I then pootle gently through the roadworks and in to the gap in the stationary traffic beyond. Jackass shouts something, I stop, turn and ask his wife if he is always this much of a see you next Tuesday and she just laughs.

Of course, said jackass then catches up to me on The Downs. Sensing it might turn nasty, as I was less than complimentary, I get, what passes for the hammer, down and hope he doesn't catch me. Just my luck, the lights go red.

Imagine my surprise when his missus winds down the window and apologises to me! He is still a cock though, that pass was never on.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 06 March, 2012, 08:07:21 pm
Quote from: smurphboy on 06 March, 2012, 08:03:08 pm
Jackass shouts something, I stop, turn and ask his wife if he is always this much of a see you next Tuesday and she just laughs.

Took me a second to get that one, good one.  In previous job we used to use "He's a right Charles Ulysses Neville Thompson"  Which of course got shortened down to Charles...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 06 March, 2012, 08:07:47 pm
On the way in I had to ride on the pavement. O the horror, I know. The reason: car cruising absently towards me on the wrong side of the road. Driver was busy with something in her lap and evidently hadn't noticed that her car was over there. Sailed past and into the kerb, at which point she realised and violently swerved back over the road. I hate to think what she was playing with down there, let's hope it was her phone.

On the way back, nearly got bumped by an idiot trying to negotiate a speed pillow. There seemed to be an absurd number of close passes. I had to check my lights were working and that I'd not unaccountably turned invisible.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 06 March, 2012, 08:21:13 pm
Are all these reports of crap driving anything to do with the fact there's a full(ish) moon?

Just a thought.  Would be anal interesting to monitor whether driving standards fluctuate with the lunar cycle.  (sits back and awaits avalanche of bad jokes)

Title: On the commute today
Post by: smurphboy on 06 March, 2012, 08:24:06 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 06 March, 2012, 08:21:13 pm
Are all these reports of crap driving anything to do with the fact there's a full(ish) moon?

Just a thought.  Would be anal interesting to monitor whether driving standards fluctuate with the lunar cycle.  (sits back and awaits avalanche of bad jokes)

I thought that on the way to get milk just now. It's a lovely full moon tonight in Bristol, I've always found Tuesday and Thursday to be the worst days for driving round here.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 06 March, 2012, 08:56:16 pm
I left late, as I got there late.
And got revved and beeped at here:Clicky (http://g.co/maps/d2tk8) (The hedges are higher and the sun lower these days, but I think I recognise those same fecking cars!)

It's a blind corner, with solid white lines, and the road surface is lunar craters, so I was out wide. (s)He then passed me on my side of the road- (s)he had to- there was oncoming traffic.

I'm wondering if 'getting to work is bad for my mental health' is an acceptable excuse to job centre plus for quitting your job. I mean, it's a shit job, and I hate it, but the journey there and back is bloody awful. I've never seen another cyclist on the road at commute o'clock, and I think we all know why.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 06 March, 2012, 08:58:21 pm
For the first time in eight years I was cut up by a bus (as opposed to be passed too close or hit from behind by one). A 57 bus got level with me (on the way up the one hill on the route) and started indicating left.

I ended up at the front doors as he opened them.

"You saw me indicate !"

I was almost lost for words, but I did stay coherent and polite.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 06 March, 2012, 09:10:27 pm
Quote from: fboab on 06 March, 2012, 08:56:16 pm
It's a blind corner, with solid white lines, and the road surface is lunar craters, so I was out wide.
This is one reason why I'm currently riding on spacehopper tyres.

Sorry to hear you are having a bad time of it. Maybe your part of the country is just full of abscessed leaky arseholes?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 06 March, 2012, 09:37:58 pm
first commute on the bike for weeks the train is just too convenient and the commuting bikes are still off the road. Took the Van Nic and used a slightly round about route to avoid riding through Bracknell so covered about 20 miles.

A bit slow due to unfitness but good fun and the traffic all behaved.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 06 March, 2012, 10:09:15 pm
Quote from: hatler on 06 March, 2012, 08:58:21 pm
For the first time in eight years I was cut up by a bus (as opposed to be passed too close or hit from behind by one). A 57 bus got level with me (on the way up the one hill on the route) and started indicating left.

I ended up at the front doors as he opened them.

"You saw me indicate !"

I was almost lost for words, but I did stay coherent and polite.

I've had some awful driving from the 57 drivers :(. Maybe it's an easy route they put the useless ones on? Or they have one really rubbish one who we all notice. :-\
Title: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 07 March, 2012, 08:10:24 am
Broke the 9 minute barrier and thus the 30km/h average on the 4.5km ride to the station this morning.

Saturday's 200 seems to have put some fire in my legs. :thumbsup:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 07 March, 2012, 08:25:47 am
Very nearly got T-boned turning right on the roundabout at Irlam locks, only burst of acceleration and a shout to wake the dead prevented it, twas damn close to the rear wheel, other than that a nice ride and warm enough for 3/4's  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 March, 2012, 08:44:07 am
Citoyen, you seem to be getting faster and faster all the time!

I had a fun ride in with good company.  I think if Butterfly checks her average speed, she'll be pleasantly surprised.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 07 March, 2012, 09:01:50 am
Quote from: clarion on 07 March, 2012, 08:44:07 am
Citoyen, you seem to be getting faster and faster all the time!

I had a fun ride in with good company.  I think if Butterfly checks her average speed, she'll be pleasantly surprised.
I was! That was my fastest ride this year ;D. And I had to start a new level in MFP - the 12-14 mph one :D.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 07 March, 2012, 09:04:47 am
I screamed and gesticulated. I'd put my right arm out in attempt to make him not overtake me too close on a blind bend, but he went anyway.

Half an hour earlier is slightly less bad, I think.

Really, the sooner I can stop doing this, the better.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 07 March, 2012, 09:19:02 am
 :-* Boab.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 March, 2012, 09:20:35 am
Quote from: Butterfly on 07 March, 2012, 09:01:50 am
Quote from: clarion on 07 March, 2012, 08:44:07 am
Citoyen, you seem to be getting faster and faster all the time!

I had a fun ride in with good company.  I think if Butterfly checks her average speed, she'll be pleasantly surprised.
I was! That was my fastest ride this year ;D. And I had to start a new level in MFP - the 12-14 mph one :D.

:-* :-* :-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 07 March, 2012, 09:21:26 am
Quote from: fboab on 07 March, 2012, 09:04:47 am
I screamed and gesticulated. I'd put my right arm out in attempt to make him not overtake me too close on a blind bend, but he went anyway.

Half an hour earlier is slightly less bad, I think.

Really, the sooner I can stop doing this, the better.

You need to be doing your indicating with this:

(http://www.a2armory.com/images/weapons/clubmace2.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 March, 2012, 09:21:47 am
Boab, that sounds better than it has been.  You do have a lot of fuckwits in that area, but you sound marginally more positive than the last few days.

Good luck with finding something more.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 07 March, 2012, 09:37:30 am
Yesterday at about 4pm: flashing blue lights, primary-age schoolchildren standing around looking upset, car with unnervingly head-shaped dent in bonnet.   :'(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 07 March, 2012, 09:38:19 am
Sounds like we need a UK distributor for these

(http://www.3feetplease.com/images/3-feet-please.png)

from Three Feet Please (http://www.3feetplease.com/). The front says "It's the Law" so may need some localisation....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 March, 2012, 09:39:04 am
I want more than three feet.  I want more than a metre.  And I don't think I'm being too demanding.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 07 March, 2012, 09:45:44 am
Quote from: clarion on 07 March, 2012, 09:39:04 am
I want more than three feet.  I want more than a metre.  And I don't think I'm being too demanding.

This! I want 1.5m with lower speeds and lower speed differentials. If it's an HGV at 30mph, I want 5m.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 07 March, 2012, 09:51:31 am
But, on one NSL (although most of the traffic probably isn't going much above the 40-50 mark) stretch of my Friday commute, I'd count myself lucky with 1.5m from some of the HGVs.  And always try to thank with big 'thank you you made my day nicer' grins and thumbs ups and that the ones that stay back and then pass in the other lane - of which there seems to be an increasing number, thank goodness.  Just as many commuting twonks that close pass as ever, unfortunately.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tigerrr on 07 March, 2012, 09:57:37 am
Its that time of year again in London - like the annual may fly hatch there is a week when suddenly the spring commuters hatch.  Swarms of them. There is a sort of shockwave goes through the drivers on heavily affected routes (Holland Park Av is one) as they have to recalibrate road usage rights in the face of a fundamental shift in balance of power. The arrival of borisbikes has been some sort of tipping point in this because the borisbikers are a different breed - like pedestrians on wheels in the road.

At Hyde Park Corner there are now often up to 30 bikes at the front, and you can see the incredulity on the faces of drivers - it looks like a cycling event but its just the commute.

Keep it up and soon we will have created a new road use culture in London.  Excellent.

On a personal note I regret that the arrival of ever younger and fitter generations while I slide into corpulent old age means I no longer win my commute as I used to.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 07 March, 2012, 09:58:23 am
Quote from: Wendy on 07 March, 2012, 09:45:44 am
Quote from: clarion on 07 March, 2012, 09:39:04 am
I want more than three feet.  I want more than a metre.  And I don't think I'm being too demanding.
This! I want 1.5m with lower speeds and lower speed differentials. If it's an HGV at 30mph, I want 5m.

As a minimum I want at least twice my touching distance. My wife was told by her driving instructor that you should pass far enough away from a bike that if the bike and rider fell to the right, you'd still not be close enough for there to be a collision. I like that one.

But I'm also with Wendy. If they're doing Mach 2 I'd want a mile clearance. Absolute minimum is 6'. Interpolate between those two as you wish dependent upon vehicle size.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 07 March, 2012, 10:04:56 am
Quote from: Tigerrr on 07 March, 2012, 09:57:37 am
... I no longer win my commute as I used to.

 ;D

You are teh awesomes!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 07 March, 2012, 10:07:49 am
Quote from: Wendy on 07 March, 2012, 09:45:44 am
Quote from: clarion on 07 March, 2012, 09:39:04 am
I want more than three feet.  I want more than a metre.  And I don't think I'm being too demanding.

This! I want 1.5m with lower speeds and lower speed differentials. If it's an HGV at 30mph, I want 5m.

I want 30mph!
More than 60, at less than a metre, is taking the piss, and, not to put too fine a point on it, is pissing me off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 07 March, 2012, 10:11:17 am
Big fast roads are scary! I'm lucky in that the fastest road on my commute is "40mph".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 07 March, 2012, 10:16:07 am
Quote from: clarion on 07 March, 2012, 08:44:07 am
Citoyen, you seem to be getting faster and faster all the time!

I am, and I'm surprising myself. I think I must be fitter now than I've been in nearly 20 years. Overall average for the 23km this morning was 25km/h (slowed down a bit on the Penge-Camberwell stretch by traffic and headwinds) and I feel fine at the end of it - there was a time not so long ago when I'd have needed an hour or more to recover from a ride like that.  :thumbsup:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 07 March, 2012, 10:18:38 am
Tailwind today. Sadly I couldn't make much use of it, too much traffic. But it was fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MikeFromLFE on 07 March, 2012, 10:20:45 am
Quote from: clarion on 07 March, 2012, 09:39:04 am
I want more than three feet.  I want more than a metre.  And I don't think I'm being too demanding.
Agreed.
I'd be happy with a cryptic  "Rule 163" on my shirt!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 07 March, 2012, 10:39:37 am
Nobody gives a toss what's on your shirt1. They're driving to work, it's a twisty turny road, National Speed Limit applies (60), with double white lines down the middle.

Cyclists, walkers, horse riders, tractors, and other assorted road users doing less than the NSL (or whatever variant thereof is being used) are just In The Way, and need to be got past - regardless of anyone else's safety, welfare or comfort.

Is just selfish. Us humans excel at it don't you know. It's one of our defining characteristics. Along with fucking each other over for an advantage(tm) Flt Off Ripley

ETA:
---
1 With the possible exception of POLICE - as previously alluded to. But I didn't say that GruB, honest guv...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 07 March, 2012, 10:41:08 am
Especially when they are behind the wheel of a car.  HGVs seem to be an exception to the rule.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 07 March, 2012, 11:39:01 am
It's not much help now, but I think if boab persists on that route she might find things improve as the regulars get used to the fact that there will be a cyclist at some point on their trip and start driving appropriately.  I'm afraid it's only anecdata but it's an effect I've noticed  on my various commute routes over the years. 

One other tip, providing boab doesn't mind appearing unladylike.  A well timed spit to your right will often persuade motons that it might be an idea to move over a bit when overtaking you.  The flashier the motor the better it works.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 07 March, 2012, 12:08:42 pm
I'm betting a POLICE gilet and a couple of Mobile Speed Checks signs by the side of the road would make ALL the difference. Until the regulars got used to them and realised they'd been duped.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 07 March, 2012, 12:12:00 pm
Very nearly got took out by a woman turning into my road from the right  :demon: & it was like riding into a power shower all the way.  Bloody hard going meant 50 minutes & 15mph average, hope it's still windy on the way home  :)

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 07 March, 2012, 12:42:39 pm
Quote from: Chris S on 07 March, 2012, 10:39:37 am
Is just selfish. Us humans excel at it don't you know. It's one of our defining characteristics. Along with fucking each other over for an advantage(tm) Flt Off Ripley
Suggest the words are...
Quote from: Flt Off Ripley
You know, Burke, I don't know which species is worse. You don't see them fucking each other over for a goddamn percentage.
The benefits of having subtitles on when watching USAnian films. :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tom_e on 07 March, 2012, 01:02:43 pm
@boab ideas:

Antisocial rear light set to strobe?

Small garden fork mounted across the rear with spikes to the right?  No wider than your elbow probably, but amazing how good peoples' eyes are when it might affect their paintwork.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 07 March, 2012, 01:14:02 pm
Quote from: tom_e on 07 March, 2012, 01:02:43 pm
Small garden fork mounted across the rear with spikes to the right?  No wider than your elbow probably, but amazing how good peoples' eyes are when it might affect their paintwork.

I was just going to suggest exactly that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 07 March, 2012, 01:24:38 pm
This is Iceni country.

(http://www.knowledgerush.com/wiki_image/f/fc/Boudiccastatue.jpg)

@TheLurker: I am a Lady. I never spit, always swallow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 07 March, 2012, 02:26:47 pm
*snorts unattractively (and possibly inappropriately for current environment) with laughter*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 07 March, 2012, 03:34:20 pm
Got driven into by an old man who was turning right into a side road as I was cycling past it. His reason for not seeing me was that the sun was in his eyes. I catapulted.

The bike is in a worse state than me, I think its totally dead.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 March, 2012, 03:35:27 pm
Blimey.  Sounds bad.  Glad you're still with us.

What are your injuries?  Did you get the driver's details?  etc etc
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 07 March, 2012, 03:44:17 pm
Yes the driver was very apologetic and immediately gave me insurance details etc. He looked a bit shaken himself.

Nothing of me is broken, just all bashed up and bruised with some missing skin. Been a bit sick as I smacked my head on his bonnet but could have been much worse.

I've been quite lucky until now- I commute just under 40 miles a day and I've fallen off due my own silliness twice and ripped clothes/knees but this is my first 'proper crash'
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 07 March, 2012, 03:56:43 pm
Quote from: Lady Cavendish on 07 March, 2012, 03:44:17 pm
Yes the driver was very apologetic and immediately gave me insurance details etc. He looked a bit shaken himself.

Nothing of me is broken, just all bashed up and bruised with some missing skin. Been a bit sick as I smacked my head on his bonnet but could have been much worse.
I've been quite lucky until now- I commute just under 40 miles a day and I've fallen off due my own silliness twice and ripped clothes/knees but this is my first 'proper crash'
I think you need to go to a doctor now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 07 March, 2012, 03:59:04 pm
Quote from: hatler on 07 March, 2012, 03:56:43 pm
Quote from: Lady Cavendish on 07 March, 2012, 03:44:17 pm
Yes the driver was very apologetic and immediately gave me insurance details etc. He looked a bit shaken himself.

Nothing of me is broken, just all bashed up and bruised with some missing skin. Been a bit sick as I smacked my head on his bonnet but could have been much worse.
I've been quite lucky until now- I commute just under 40 miles a day and I've fallen off due my own silliness twice and ripped clothes/knees but this is my first 'proper crash'
I think you need to go to a doctor now.

^^^^ This +$LOTS, get thee to a GP or A&E ASAP, sounds like you might have concussion.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 07 March, 2012, 03:59:27 pm
Been, done, I'm ok........
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 March, 2012, 03:59:39 pm
Banged head => Go see A&E/Dr immediately, without exception.

Quote from: Lady Cavendish on 07 March, 2012, 03:59:27 pm
Been, done, I'm ok........

Good to hear.  Take good care of yourself.

Can you ride?  Have you got another bike you can be using while you wait for his insurance to sort out your damaged one?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 07 March, 2012, 04:01:03 pm
Quote from: Lady Cavendish on 07 March, 2012, 03:59:27 pm
Been, done, I'm ok........

Glad to hear it, make sure someone watches over you tonight, just in case.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 07 March, 2012, 04:03:50 pm
The one I used to commute on was my 'winter bike'. I do have a nicer bike I can ride in the meantime, just not so keen on leaving it outside my office on a high street near a station all day. Its quite new. But I will do for a while till I get another one. The bike *might* be ok, its now at the bike hospital for them to look at.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 07 March, 2012, 04:11:28 pm
Quote from: Lady Cavendish on 07 March, 2012, 03:44:17 pm
Yes the driver was very apologetic and immediately gave me insurance details etc. He looked a bit shaken himself.

FFS. I should bloody well hope he was shaken, and that this is a massive wake-up call to him to start driving more carefully before he kills someone. (Sorry, I'm just full of righteous anger on your behalf, but more importantly, glad you weren't more seriously hurt.)

Quote
Nothing of me is broken, just all bashed up and bruised with some missing skin. Been a bit sick as I smacked my head on his bonnet but could have been much worse.

That's good news at least. Shame about the bike.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Karla on 07 March, 2012, 04:19:03 pm
Oh no, not another feeble right hook with 'sun in eyes'  :facepalm:

Get well soon, Lady C, I hope no extra injuries present themselves from now on.  It's good to have you with us!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 07 March, 2012, 04:45:53 pm
I'm angry...

A chap in a green VW passat got far too close, so close I could have helped myself to the contents of the glove box.

I indicated my displeasure using the age old tiny gap followed by some display of fingers, yep I was really annoyed, understand I should have kept it rather zen and shrugged it off but their you go.

A bit later I had passed him and he catches up and asks me

Can you not ride a bike.. WTF!!

Apparently because I didn't fall off it was ok to be that close, and when he asked what my problem was he was bemused by my response of because your trying to kill me.


So he's going to run me over if he sees me again.

Sodding Small Heath

I'm putting the kettle on now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 07 March, 2012, 04:51:17 pm
Y'know - anyone considering taking up cycling, who happened upon this thread (especially lately - there seems to be a lot of aggression and idiocy out there just now amongst the motons), would come to a rapid decision, and probably take up basket weaving instead.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 07 March, 2012, 04:53:36 pm
Indded: I've been regularly dipping into this thread, between bouts of whatting and coughing up chunks of ungodly ectoplasm, in order to calm my cycling withdrawl symptoms.  It's almost working.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 07 March, 2012, 05:49:21 pm
Whereas I (sorry, shut your ears or cover the following with a mahoosive coughing fit, OK, Kim?) have to say that I'm fortunate that the few utter wankers I've encountered in the last week or so have merely given me a valid and valued opportunity to vent RAGE.  And that generally speaking being back on my bike and riding to work again is right up there in the 'best things possible right now' list.  This may be a reflection of my commutes being fairly benign, or life being a bit shite, of course. What with everything being relative an' all that.  But overall, commuting again after 6 months near-as-dammit total layoff is bloody fantastic.  Doing so in daylight is a bonus.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 07 March, 2012, 05:55:19 pm
Just under the railway bridge a Mondeo passed way too close. I looked and he was spraying the windscreen. He'd either passed to close to try to spray me or was wandering all over the shop like a
twat- waffle because he was distracted by his wipers. Hypnotised, maybe.

Maybe someone could start a "Nice things on today's commute" thread?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 07 March, 2012, 05:56:36 pm
What's that you say, CL, daylight?


You know it's bad when:

barakta: You could go for a short pootle maybe?
Kim: Nahh, I can't hear anything behind me and I'm still a bit dizzy.
barakta: You could use the trike?
Kim: Hmm.  No, I'd have to get an Allen key out...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 07 March, 2012, 06:01:13 pm
Well, I've got this friend on the internet, and she's collecting dead brollies for recycling or something and so I saw one and I thought "ooo, that's a big 'un, Arch could use that", so I thought I'd take it home and post it to her, but it's a bit too big for my panniers and that, so, anyway, I had a much more nicer journey home. I even got to give a driver a big  :thumbsup: for holding back behind me and waiting to overtake till it was safe. I'm not sure when I'll get to the post office, aktchully.
 O:-)
(click to show/hide)


@Lady Cav- that's nasty. Hope you heal soon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 07 March, 2012, 06:09:15 pm
 :thumbsup: fboab
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 07 March, 2012, 06:09:38 pm
Some time back I was bringing a large bunch of flowers back.  They bloomed massively out of my pannier.
I was given space and time by every one.
Shows that you just need to be a little bit unusual to be noticed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 07 March, 2012, 06:10:20 pm
Quote from: fboab on 07 March, 2012, 06:01:13 pm
(click to show/hide)

Excellent   :thumbsup:

Maybe you could do a different comedy item each day?  Variety is the spice of life, and all that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 07 March, 2012, 06:35:20 pm
I love it BOAB!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 07 March, 2012, 07:05:13 pm
Brilliant.  :thumbsup: Perhaps some nice reflective tape on the point, or something...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 07 March, 2012, 07:06:21 pm
Reflectives would spoil the effect.  Maybe a jet of flame...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 07 March, 2012, 07:26:27 pm
Clipless moments. Those brief llttle surrenders to gravity and inevitability. It happens.

Not me, but I saw the same guy do it three times in the space of Blackfriars Bridge and St George's Circus. I won't comment on his other stylish moves and traffic light colourblindness. He wasn't letting it stop him though, arse in the air, he was pedalling like a man pursued by demons. Which probably wasn't helping. I was quite surprised to see that he was still alive when he caught up with me at Camberwell Green. Sadly, for calamity comedy fans, he headed off towards the Democratic Republic of Peckham. I'm really not sure that the Elephant & Castle is a good place to practice either cycling or lying in the road. People often lie in the middle of roads in the DRP, so he may have better luck there.

On his third fall, he actually landed on a pedestrian waiting to cross the road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 07 March, 2012, 07:35:52 pm
Quote from: Kim on 07 March, 2012, 07:06:21 pm
Reflectives would spoil the effect.  Maybe a jet of flame...

Sounds like something a Kim could molish...the fuel could be stored inna water bottle mounted on the frame...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 07 March, 2012, 08:07:37 pm
Lol @ umbrella filled panniers.

Been feeling rough this afternoon and slept thru most of it. Scared at the thought of getting back on my bike to go to work :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mike on 07 March, 2012, 09:40:13 pm
I done a commute!! 

started my new job on Monday in an office 18 miles away, after 10 years of working from home.  Drove in this morning with bike in car and rode home, leaving kit for tomorrow in the back of the car and will ride in tomorrow morning. 

Loved it  ;D.  Didnt see any alarmingly bad driving, had a beautiful sunset *and* a tailwind.  I can see this catching on!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 07 March, 2012, 09:43:21 pm
Huzzah !!
Title: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 07 March, 2012, 09:43:55 pm
Congrats.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 07 March, 2012, 10:03:01 pm
Quote from: mike on 07 March, 2012, 09:40:13 pm
I done a commute!! 
Loved it  ;D.  Didnt see any alarmingly bad driving, had a beautiful sunset *and* a tailwind.  I can see this catching on!

Fab :D.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 March, 2012, 10:34:03 pm
I had an odd commute.  It was nice because I had a tailwind, but that's because I was going in the wrong direction :o

It was someone else's commute - Oscar's Dad's, to be precise.  Despite the dreary ugliness of East London as it seeps into the scrapyard end of Essex, being in good company overcomes all that to make a fab ride.  OK, so I was dropping back at every hill from Ilford onwards, but that didn't seem to matter at all.

Andrij & I tracked down the station at Brentwood, which wasn't making itself awfully apparent, then a train assisted ride home.  Including the pootling prior to meeting the chaps, I clocked up 63km, which makes 84km for the day - not bad for a full working day :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 07 March, 2012, 10:38:51 pm
Quote from: fboab on 07 March, 2012, 06:01:13 pm

 O:-)
(click to show/hide)
Boab, that's brilliant. Give it three months and Rapha will be selling a designer version, all black, made entirely from sundried carbon aluminium, and costing about £300. 

Sue them for a couple of million and employ a chauffeur to take you to work.  Or give up work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 March, 2012, 10:51:53 pm
Oh yeah, boab, that works! :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JJ on 07 March, 2012, 11:24:32 pm
Quote from: mike on 07 March, 2012, 09:40:13 pm
I done a commute!! 

started my new job on Monday in an office 18 miles away, after 10 years of working from home.  Drove in this morning with bike in car and rode home, leaving kit for tomorrow in the back of the car and will ride in tomorrow morning. 

Loved it  ;D.  Didnt see any alarmingly bad driving, had a beautiful sunset *and* a tailwind.  I can see this catching on!

I guess the tailwind on your way home tells me that the new job is outside meet-for-a-pint-after-work range of mine, then.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 08 March, 2012, 06:01:24 am
Quote from: Lady Cavendish on 07 March, 2012, 08:07:37 pm
Lol @ umbrella filled panniers.

Been feeling rough this afternoon and slept thru most of it. Scared at the thought of getting back on my bike to go to work :(
Do make sure you are properly healed up first.  I once went back to work after just one day after an off as I felt sort of OK and had no broken bones that time. Just scraped the side of my head and face along the road.  I kept getting quite bad dizzy spells and had to take another couple of days off (and, like an idiot, rode back home that day, but I was very young and foolish, that's my excuse for being stupid then) 
For  the first day back is there someone you know who can do the first commute with you?  I don't know the area you are in, but one of us might even be able to help out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mike on 08 March, 2012, 06:25:11 am
Quote from: JJ on 07 March, 2012, 11:24:32 pm
Quote from: mike on 07 March, 2012, 09:40:13 pm
I done a commute!! 

started my new job on Monday in an office 18 miles away, after 10 years of working from home.  Drove in this morning with bike in car and rode home, leaving kit for tomorrow in the back of the car and will ride in tomorrow morning. 

Loved it  ;D.  Didnt see any alarmingly bad driving, had a beautiful sunset *and* a tailwind.  I can see this catching on!

I guess the tailwind on your way home tells me that the new job is outside meet-for-a-pint-after-work range of mine, then.

no, I think it's pretty much perfect...  Wind from the north yesterday :)  Am off Milton Rd.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dinamo on 08 March, 2012, 07:11:54 am
Nice ride in this morning, under the glow of a full moon.
Very  little traffic but quite a strong headwind that got more annoying the closer l got to the coast !
Always makes the climb over the Avonmouth bridge interesting  :P

Hopefully should be a good wind assisted ride home later.....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 08 March, 2012, 07:20:52 am
Quote from: Dinamo on 08 March, 2012, 07:11:54 am

Hopefully should be a good wind assisted ride home later.....

Don't be silly.  Will you never learn?  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 08 March, 2012, 07:50:37 am
Bloody hell. Three other cyclists ciren bound this morning.  Spring must be here.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 08 March, 2012, 08:08:09 am
Non eventful :)

Heart racing as kept thinking someone would drive into me but thankfully not. 2 cars had hit each other in Bray though :(

Took it slow as still a bit fuzzy in the head
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 08 March, 2012, 08:16:57 am
Sunshine and a tailwind, it don't get much better
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 08 March, 2012, 08:44:27 am
Quote from: Lady Cavendish on 08 March, 2012, 08:08:09 am
Non eventful :)

Heart racing as kept thinking someone would drive into me but thankfully not. 2 cars had hit each other in Bray though :(

Took it slow as still a bit fuzzy in the head

I had a thread on the fear after I had a succession of offs-on-ice here:Clicky (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=28707.msg524467#msg524467) and the general concensus is take it easy, don't push yourself too hard.
I suspect 'don't push yourself too hard' is anathema to you, though..

I'm not sure you should be riding if your head is still fuzzy?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 08 March, 2012, 09:01:15 am
Fuzzy head doesn't sound so good, I applaud your getting back on the bike so quickly, but do take care.

Head injuries are funny things.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 08 March, 2012, 09:12:35 am
Echoing the sentiments to Lady Cavendish, it's very normal to feel twitchy after an accident, the less you push it the better it will get. Choose the easy options when you can and let time do its work.

This morning, rear tyre was a little slack, so I thought "ah-ha, chance to ride the 29er into work as I'm selling it to a colleegwee" A small amount of fettling later I was on my way (yes I DID remember to tighten the seat and pedals....just). Not impressed at all, glad I'm selling. Really missed the SPD, especially uphill.

Leaving that bit later, I had a couple of chats with people on the way and if the bloke on the very nice old steel Condor pops in here, sorry I forgot to tell you I was Ham, and welcome.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 March, 2012, 09:15:09 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 08 March, 2012, 09:01:15 am
Head injuries are funny things.

I know.  I've barely stopped laughing since mine :( ;)

Yes, remember to take care.  Vision and judgment may be affected, and may be inconsistent. 

I know what it's like to not want to get out there.  It can really grip you.  But I found that it was mainly stopping me getting on the bike.  Once I was on, I was nervous, but knew what to do.  Riding was something I had a bit of control over.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 08 March, 2012, 09:53:34 am
Adding to wot they said:

When I was clattered off the bike in November I was concussed but didn't lose consciousness. Night in hospital, stitches, head ache.

The Crool Nurse made sure there was some one to keep an eye on me the next day. I took the rest of the week off, but went out on the Friday night. According to friends I wasn't right, even though I thought I was fine.  Memory was definitely affected - weeks afterwards I was finding email conversations I had no recollection of starting.
 
Take it easy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 08 March, 2012, 10:22:25 am
Thanks for the concern, I did take it easier and will do the same on the way home as I'm not feeling properly right. Banging headache and still a bit queasy. Somehow I have pulled all my stomach muscles but the only other real damage seems to be bruised right hip and a bashed knee.

Can't be long till we change the clocks, I cannot wait to eventually do this in daylight- daylight either on the way in or out would be nice :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 08 March, 2012, 10:51:34 am
Quote from: fboab on 07 March, 2012, 06:01:13 pm
Well, I've got this friend on the internet, and she's collecting dead brollies for recycling or something and so I saw one and I thought "ooo, that's a big 'un, Arch could use that", so I thought I'd take it home and post it to her, but it's a bit too big for my panniers and that...

Nice work! I hope the experience has put as big a smile on your face as your picture put on mine.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 08 March, 2012, 12:15:38 pm
Dry, sunny & just a bit of a breeze + 7 minutes quicker than yesterday :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 08 March, 2012, 12:58:07 pm
Sat here luvvin the brolly.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 March, 2012, 01:14:05 pm
Quote from: clarion on 07 March, 2012, 10:34:03 pm
I had an odd commute.  It was nice because I had a tailwind, but that's because I was going in the wrong direction :o

It was someone else's commute - Oscar's Dad's, to be precise.  Despite the dreary ugliness of East London as it seeps into the scrapyard end of Essex, being in good company overcomes all that to make a fab ride.  OK, so I was dropping back at every hill from Ilford onwards, but that didn't seem to matter at all.

Andrij & I tracked down the station at Brentwood, which wasn't making itself awfully apparent, then a train assisted ride home.  Including the pootling prior to meeting the chaps, I clocked up 63km, which makes 84km for the day - not bad for a full working day :thumbsup:

Just read this, which describes riding out of London

Quote from: GK Chesterton
The yellow omnibus crawled up the northern roads for what seemed like hours on end; the great detective would not explain further, and perhaps his assistants felt a silent and growing doubt of his errand.  Perhaps, too, they felt a silent and growing desire for lunch, for the hours crept long past the normal luncheon hour, and the long roads of the North London suburbs seemed to shoot out into length after length like an infernal telescope.  It was one of those journeys on which a man perpetually feels that now at last he must have come to the end of the universe, and then finds he has only come to the beginning of Tufnell Park.  London died away in draggled taverns and dreary scrubs, and then was unaccountably born again in blazing high streets and blatant hotels.  It was like passing through thirteen separate vulgar cities all just touching each other...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 08 March, 2012, 01:23:57 pm
Someonestanding  on the pavement on Bedford Road holding a bird of prey - wtf ??? (Exotic looking bird, ~buzzard sized maybe a bit smaller, but not buzzard coloured)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 08 March, 2012, 01:26:02 pm
This is my favourite time of year to commute home.  I get to play my bicycle light game.  To win I must arrive at home with my lights off.  So far I have not won this year.  The rules are simple.  Watch cars passing you on the other side of the road.  If there are ten cars in a row with lights on I must turn my lights on. If five cars in row pass me with lights off I may turn my lights back off.  I have got as far as Groes-Faen a couple of times last week but I have been leaving work a little later this week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 08 March, 2012, 02:48:24 pm
Quote from: Pingu on 08 March, 2012, 01:23:57 pm
Someonestanding  on the pavement on Bedford Road holding a bird of prey - wtf ??? (Exotic looking bird, ~buzzard sized maybe a bit smaller, but not buzzard coloured)

Pigeon or seagull control? I've had to work where other birds are a danger and we've used a tethered bird of prey to scare or distract them away. Also in such circumstances it's usually difficult to drive straight to where the bird is needed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 09 March, 2012, 01:08:40 am
Fair amount of motor vehicle RLJ going on this afternoon on the way in to work. Mainly of the clueless numpty persuasion. One woman was so overwhelmed by the concept that the junction she was approaching was left turn only that she rolled through the red lights to check if it was really so. Yep, she couldn't turn right! So she stopped in the middle of the junction - fortunately I twigged that she was going to respond to the first glimmer of green that she next saw regardless of where it came from or what it was. I was proved right as the lights turned green for my arm of the junction and she drove on oblivious of the red lights still supposedly preventing her progress.
I could tell the u-turn was coming before she was aware that she was going to execute it as well.

When I saw the signs announcing the introduction of light controlled, alternate one way running at the toll booth on College Road, I wondered how drivers were going to cope with it. Today I found out. It melts their tiny little minds. The gate keeper was attempting to get two vehicles to reverse away from the barrier as I approached the red light. I stopped and then shouted for the driver following me to stop but she carried on through the light, into the yellow box junction and parked herself behind the two vehicles ahead. At this point the three vehicles attained what is known as 'cretinous mass', sometimes termed 'cretinous mess' so the gate keeper gave up on them and went to sort out the logjam from the other side. When the lights turned green I made my way forward, and quite politely asked her to pay more attention.
"Are you talking to ME?"
"Yes, yes I am. I'm asking you to obey red lights, understand box junctions and drive with a bit more care."
"Oh, and I suppose you stopped at the red light like a good little cyclist?" (more than a touch of sarcasm here, can you tell?)
"Yes I did." and I added something about trying to ride safely.
"Well, the red light's for him. He's organising it." at which point she waved her residents pass at the gatekeeper and absolved herself of probably absolutely everything.

The 133 bus driver wasn't clueless. He was tonking along at well over 40 and didn't have a hope of stopping in time.

It wasn't a bad ride in, the idiots were all quite easy to spot and steer clear of.

Ride home involved removing upturned 'roadworks' signs from the cycle lane on Dulwich Wood Park and then getting skimmed by boy racers through the roadworks. The roadworks are to install another traffic island pinch point a few yards after an already existing one. It's quite comfortable to cycle through the older island in secondary with cars passing. Not that it seems trouble free for the overtaking motorist. The road curves to the left and narrows considerably on the approach and obviously gives the impression that an overtake will be tight going by the hard acceleration and braking that often accompanies any pass. What amuses me is how, despite fairly desperate attempts to avoid doing so, most end up passing exactly as they reach the island. The new island though looks like it will be a squeeze. It will top off the exquisite diminuendo of cycling infrastructure that accompanies cyclists as they climb Dulwich Wood Park. At the base of the hill the road is straight and wide and has a mandatory cycle lane. As the road bends to the left it is artificially narrowed by hatching so the cycle lane becomes advisory. As the bend tightens and the road becomes steeper physical pinch points are introduced so therefore the cycle lane disappears completely. It's a beautiful thing. Almost as beautiful as the left hook delivery cycle lanes on the two roundabouts nearby.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 09 March, 2012, 08:38:37 am
bah. Broken chain. Bah.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 09 March, 2012, 08:43:08 am
Bit out an outrageous taxi red light runner yesterday, I was a bit taken aback as it was a particularly bad one. Oh, and a pushy driver *get the beep out of my way*, twice. Thank goodness for roadsafe...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 09 March, 2012, 08:54:32 am
White van man who stayed way back behind me waiting at the lights on Grimston Bar roundabout, round the roundabout, off the exit onto the 166 and past all the traffic queueing in the other direction waiting to get onto the roundabout (since you have to ride quite wide there due to crappy road surface and very nasty subsided drains) and only passed me once the other lane was clear got a cheery wave and a big thank you.

As to the Network Rail van that was behind him.... well, yes, it is true that my arse has got a bit smaller of late.  Good job really, because otherwise you'd have just about used my right hip to clean a stripe in the mud along the side of your van when you passed me.  And I was going a good 20mph at the time, so I don't really want to think about what your speed was....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 09 March, 2012, 09:08:00 am
That was a brillian ride in.  :D  Helped by the fact that I was feeling really strong had a good tail wind.
Only slightly marred by being a bit unlucky with lots of ped lights and having to get a bit skiddy when an oncoming car decided to right turn through across me.  I suspect the car following had flashed him.  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 09 March, 2012, 09:10:13 am
I've evidently got a fat bum.
Emergency stop as a precaution because of a pedestrian about to cross the side-road that I was turning in to.  (An almost-straight 'turn'; main road bends right, this road forks off slightly left)   Then a bang and a tinkle noise, as the tensioning bolt in my Brooks saddle shears, and drops onto the tarmac.

I then ride to LBS, and home, standing up all the way.  The LBS made a phone call, and have promised a replacement Brooks tensioning bolt on Monday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 09 March, 2012, 09:25:04 am
Oh dear, rower, that sounds uncomfortable!

Had some minicab driver trying to offer me pearls of wisdom yesterday but I couldn’t hear what the hell he was saying from his box, it was unintelligible. Something about looking over my shoulder “darlin’”. I had indeed just looked over my shoulder and was well aware he was there; I suspect he was upset that he got stuck behind me for four seconds because there was a bus coming the other way and I deliberately hadn’t left him enough room to try any funny business.

This morning there was a huge beast of a Chelsea tractor thing being ticketed for something or other by a cycling police occifer. Something quite pleasing about that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 09 March, 2012, 09:32:04 am
Big HGV recovery truck passed me in a great hurry, too close, with a hoot of the horn.

40 mins later it hoves into view once more.
At the side of the road.
Tipped at 45 degrees onto it's side, with it's nearside wheels dangling in a deep ditch, and the thing grounded on it's underbelly.
Driver standing looking at it, scratching head.

Me: Smile and Wave.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 March, 2012, 09:49:05 am
Kamma
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 09 March, 2012, 10:46:37 am
No brolly today (forecast is for dry, and I had 2 full panniers) so I played at counting instead.

54 vehicles passed me before I lost count (at about half way), of which 16 were too close. I think the problem is that they're tailgaiting each other, so the first one is wide enough and the rest don't see what the first one is pulling out for.

Whatever the reason, I'm sick of it. Am very looking forward to a) A lanesy ride to my friend's from work b) The weekend and c) being successful in the ongoing job search.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 09 March, 2012, 10:52:58 am
Bizarre conversation with a black cab driver today.  I'm on a two lane section of road, approaching a set of lights, in primary because there are parked cars almost all the way to the junction.  Cabbie pulls alongside me, straddling both lanes...

Cabbie: where you going mate?
Me: Er, straight ahead at the lights
Cabbie: Well you should signal when you're pulling out
Me: I'm not pulling out, I'm going straight ahead, in a straight line
Cabbie: I ride a bike, you know

And drove off through the lights as they turned red. 

 ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 09 March, 2012, 12:12:52 pm
Quote from: Feanor on 09 March, 2012, 09:32:04 am
Big HGV recovery truck passed me in a great hurry, too close, with a hoot of the horn.

40 mins later it hoves into view once more.
At the side of the road.
Tipped at 45 degrees onto it's side, with it's nearside wheels dangling in a deep ditch, and the thing grounded on it's underbelly.
Driver standing looking at it, scratching head.

Me: Smile and Wave.

Jeez. I want to laugh, but can't help thinking that could have resulted in some very nasty collateral damage for some other innocent road user...

Lovely ride in for me this morning. Had the fast legs on again, and possibly a hint of wind assistance. Some chap was drafting me through North Dulwich so I stuck the afterburners on up Red Post Hill and left him for dead. It's not a steep or long hill (barely a hill at all, tbh) but there's still something very satisfying about comfortably holding >30km/h on an upward gradient.  8)

On the stretch between Camberwell and Elephant & Castle, I was playing yo-yo with another chap who kept catching me at the lights. I nearly said something to him to the effect of "don't know why I bother going fast" but I was just enjoying the "interval training".  ;D

Then I surfed the green wave all the way through E&C. Which is nice.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 09 March, 2012, 12:22:11 pm
Quote from: fboab on 09 March, 2012, 10:46:37 am
No brolly today (forecast is for dry, and I had 2 full panniers) so I played at counting instead.

54 vehicles passed me before I lost count (at about half way), of which 16 were too close. I think the problem is that they're tailgaiting each other, so the first one is wide enough and the rest don't see what the first one is pulling out for.

Whatever the reason, I'm sick of it. Am very looking forward to a) A lanesy ride to my friend's from work b) The weekend and c) being successful in the ongoing job search.


Getchayerself a 'lollipop' to stick out the side of the bike, I'd suggest. I haven't got one myself, but sometimes I make a mental note to buy one and stick it on m'mountain bike (m'commuter) when it happens to me, so it discourages those close calls.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 09 March, 2012, 12:31:36 pm
I don't need a lollypop, I have a brolly.
(click to show/hide)

Next up- the broom.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 09 March, 2012, 12:47:51 pm
You need  your brolly on permanently.

In other news: This morning big silver van man decides he doesn't need to see round the blind bend before overtaking, and met small car coming the other way. Now, to his credit, he didn't try to occupy the same space I was in by way of avoidance. However, he did force the driver coming the other way to climb the grass verge, and actually stop - to avoid a collision. Incredulous face of driver was a picture. Sometime after we had both passed, I heard her lean on the horn - probably just frustration, because there was no way SVM was going to hear by then.

I should have stopped to check she was OK - but I thought of that too late.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 09 March, 2012, 03:07:59 pm
Three cyclists waiting at an Aberdeen junction - that's Critical Mass 'round here  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 09 March, 2012, 09:31:22 pm
Quote from: Feanor on 09 March, 2012, 09:32:04 am
Big HGV recovery truck passed me in a great hurry, too close, with a hoot of the horn.

40 mins later it hoves into view once more.
At the side of the road.
Tipped at 45 degrees onto it's side, with it's nearside wheels dangling in a deep ditch, and the thing grounded on it's underbelly.
Driver standing looking at it, scratching head.

Me: Smile and Wave.

(http://images.wikia.com/simpsons/images/4/40/Picture0003.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 09 March, 2012, 09:43:19 pm
Quote from: Feanor on 09 March, 2012, 09:32:04 am
Big HGV recovery truck passed me in a great hurry, too close, with a hoot of the horn.

40 mins later it hoves into view once more.
At the side of the road.
Tipped at 45 degrees onto it's side, with it's nearside wheels dangling in a deep ditch, and the thing grounded on it's underbelly.
Driver standing looking at it, scratching head.

Me: Smile and Wave.

See,there is a god.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 09 March, 2012, 09:49:23 pm
Boab, can I suggest a seasonal variation, during the summer months you need to carry a pitch fork in a similar manner.  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 10 March, 2012, 11:09:39 am
Or a stick of welding rod with a flag on the end  :demon: (credit to whoever on here suggested it first).

Cycled in yesterday for the first time in two and a half weeks, a real noticable drop in fitness just in that time. Not helped by my ribs still not being quite right so I was sat funny and couldn't take very deep breaths.

Mood in the morning not helped by the following exchange with a numpty lorry driver (biggish lorry but rigid rather than articulated) at some traffic lights that stopped him after a far too close overtake:

Me: Could you give me a bit more space when overtaking?

Him: I couldn't, there was a car coming the other way.

Me: Well how about waiting to overtake until there isn't a car coming the other way, it's not difficult.

I then moved ahead of him as was stuck in the middle of the road.

Him: Well you shouldn't have sworn at me either (I had stuck two fingers up at the time of the pass)

Me: Don't put me in danger and I wouldn't have to would I?

Gah, was so angry, and it was right by work so didn't have time to work the anger and adrenaline out so was ranting round work for a good half hour. It's just so frustrating that people can think and act like that and I have no real defence against it.

And how can he compare putting me in danger to swearing, which doesn't even justify it any way as the swear came after the idiotic driving.

Still I'm going to SaferRoadsSussex (roadsafe equivalent) his registration at least, it's a shame his company polo shirt was rumpled or I'd report him to his employers too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 10 March, 2012, 11:13:55 am
Welding rod? Piano wire from a model shop surely? It'll take a nice diagonal cut on the end too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 10 March, 2012, 11:34:05 am
I've heard welding rod would take paintwork out nicely, but sure piano wire is good too. And the advantage over and umbrella is it's lighter and should flex if struck rather than push you over.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 12 March, 2012, 08:55:41 am
Can't say what it was like as I couldn't see anything!
Wish I'd not taken the rear lights off last week!
But, drivers, please:dipped headlights in fog. Sidelights or no lights are completely useless...

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 March, 2012, 09:31:44 am
A foggy day in London Town...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 12 March, 2012, 09:36:33 am
Quote from: Ashaman42 on 10 March, 2012, 11:34:05 am
I've heard welding rod would take paintwork out nicely, but sure piano wire is good too. And the advantage over and umbrella is it's lighter and should flex if struck rather than push you over.

You could be right. I'd no idea about welding rod doing that, I just thought it might be too noodley.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 12 March, 2012, 09:41:06 am
Quote from: Ashaman42 on 10 March, 2012, 11:34:05 am
I've heard welding rod would take paintwork out nicely, but sure piano wire is good too. And the advantage over and umbrella is it's lighter and should flex if struck rather than push you over.



In the past, I'm sure I've also proposed a telescopic car aerial with a little 'flag' on the end, as a home-made 'lollipop'. Away from the open road, this can then be retracted should you find yourself riding in traffic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 12 March, 2012, 09:42:01 am
Had a lovely commute yesterday, just full of sun and joy, and mostly lovely drivers. Told one lady after we'd been together in the same stretch of traffic from New Cross to Vauxhall that she was the best driver I'd seen in more than two weeks, she said "Oh I love you!!". :D I'm sure I interacted with more than 10-15,000 drivers in that time, so it wasn't said lightly. She just drove beautifully, calmly, excellent anticipation, indication, etc. Top notch.

I only wish my own riding/driving was as good as hers. I nearly screwed up big time on a fast 35mph descent of Bromley Hill with a big misjudgement on my part. Lady in a Punto turned right out of a side road to go in the same direction as me. It was late, and definitely not giving way as she should have, so I flicked the bike around her, only to see her in my mirrors turning right again into the next side street. Oops! And she was indicating, I just assumed it was a non-cancelled indicator.  I should and could have just about braked very hard behind her.  I wonder if I have the moral courage to upload it, and submit it to Silly Cyclists?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 12 March, 2012, 09:59:47 am
Very foggy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 12 March, 2012, 10:32:47 am
Quote from: Wendy on 12 March, 2012, 09:42:01 am
  I should and could have just about braked very hard behind her.  I wonder if I have the moral courage to upload it, and submit it to Silly Cyclists?
Well, you've admitted it on here!

We all make mistakes at times.  Even very careful riders.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 12 March, 2012, 10:58:10 am
Faffed way too much this morning, so caught the tube.  BUT, to justify inclusion in this thread, I grabbed a Norris Bike from Bow Road station.  It was a bit odd being passed by so many cyclists, but I'll learn to cope.  Wasn't sure how long the journey would take, but made it with 10 min. to spare.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 12 March, 2012, 11:22:03 am
Had one of those weird rides in this morning where my legs felt heavy and I felt generally tired and not at all up for it, but I still managed an average speed of 24.7km/h, which is no slower than usual - slightly quicker, in fact.

Hardly any wind at all - a very slight headwind if anything - so that's not the answer.

Not that I'm complaining, mind.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 12 March, 2012, 12:09:47 pm
Very foggy at 5am, couldn't see where on earth I was going.

Really felt the Chiltern 200k yesterday in my legs this morning too, I don't normally feel this rubbish on a Mon morning, must be getting old.

Commute home is via the hospital, having a mole cut off- so its longer, but at least it will be in daylight as my appt is 4.30. Can't remember the last time I commuted in daylight!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 12 March, 2012, 12:14:30 pm
Fastest commute of the year so far @ 17.7mph avg & I wasn't really trying  :)
Obviously it will be a headwind on the way back  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 12 March, 2012, 02:27:57 pm
Back into the UK on Saturday and out to the shops. Approaching the roundabout at Balcombe Road and Victoria Road I took the left turn lane. Braking because a car was turning across me, legally...that was when the Ovlov sort of overtook me.

By 'sort of', I mean got level, pulled left, and forced me to ride into the kerb as he slammed on his anchors. Then he turned left, as if I wasn't there, only to come up against the traffic light queue, where I caught him up.

He heard what I called him, because he blew his horn and drove at me. Neither of the two things I was hoping for happened, which were that his foot would slip off the clutch and crunch his car, or that he would drive into the bollard I ducked behind just in case. Pastel sweater, florid face; I hope his heart attack says hello before he kills someone.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Speshact on 12 March, 2012, 06:40:23 pm
I was on the cycle path by the Mall and a small police convoy came out of St James's Palace accompanying the Countess of Wessex. I then pulled over in Storey's Gate as another convoy was promising to turn into it. Sure enough a car passed with the Duchess of Cornwall, and presumably Prince Charles though I didn't him, in it. I tucked in behind and we went down towards Westminster Abbey. I waved regally from my bike at the assembled throng and a goodly number of them appeared suitably entertained.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 12 March, 2012, 06:43:26 pm
Foggy on the way home too, until I got withing 1.5 miles then the sun came out in the Vale.  A lovely way to finish the ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 12 March, 2012, 07:09:06 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 12 March, 2012, 10:32:47 am
Quote from: Wendy on 12 March, 2012, 09:42:01 am
  I should and could have just about braked very hard behind her.  I wonder if I have the moral courage to upload it, and submit it to Silly Cyclists?
Well, you've admitted it on here!

We all make mistakes at times.  Even very careful riders.

Yes, totally. The camera makes it impossible to avoid learning how I c0cked it up, and thus learning from it for the future. I often go back and look at situations where I felt in conflict or under stress.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Speshact on 12 March, 2012, 07:38:17 pm
Forgot that this morning I really felt like I was in the Netherlands for a moment. A mum and her child one their own bikes cycling on the road, followed by a mum with her c.10 year old daughter sitting on the pannier rack just as they do in Holland. It made my heart sing!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 12 March, 2012, 07:46:49 pm
Quote from: tonycollinet on 20 January, 2012, 10:36:16 pm
Not a good journey tonight.

First I came the closest I ever have to being taken out. Muppet came onto the roundabout...............................

Well it seems like Muppets on RAB's are like busses, nothing for three and a half years, then two in two months. Same roundabout too. I had to make use of THE VOICE
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 March, 2012, 08:30:20 pm
Funnily enough, the drivers of sarf lahndan kept this in my mind all the way home:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=42cRLsZ4Qmw
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 12 March, 2012, 09:24:07 pm
Lovely ride in in the sun this morning, legs just working, pedal no longer clunking. Bar the bus trying to squish me it was a good good commute.

Spend all day looking forward to a ride home in the sunshine. Got outside and not much more than 10m visibility, where on Earth did all that fog come from, it was still nice at 3pm so had only had a couple hours to appear.

Still a damn fine ride home though, not much wind today which beats the usual homeward head wind.

Made good time on both rides particularly given that I had to walk the 1/3 mile stretch through the park as some idiots had decided to smash beer bottles all along the path.
Title: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 12 March, 2012, 09:52:31 pm
Lovely ride in this morning through the windless fog. Set a record time, a really clean chain helped.
A good day at work, was offered a new job.
Was running a little late in the evening, had to pick up my daughter, so set a record time home too. It was warm enough to dispense with the jacket. I really need to invest in some summer gear now.
On the record run home, all the traffic lights were in my favour, and the motons seemed to sense my purposness and just fell into line.
A good day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 12 March, 2012, 10:17:34 pm
This morning I decided not to wear a base layer for the first time this year, the first few moments I thought I'd made a mistake but was fine once I warmed up.

I was glad I did bother to bungee my waterproof jacket to the rack though as the fog was very dampening on the way home.

Oh and why oh why drive round in <10m visibility without even your side lights on? Wasn't just one or two cars but loads of them. Fuckwits.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: plum on 12 March, 2012, 10:18:15 pm
100 yards from work there's a horrid crunching sensation from the back end and all motion stops. I get off and look and the [broken] chain is wrapped around the [broken] rear derailer which was wrenched off the frame and is now wedged in between a bunch of [broken] spokes and the [severely dented] right side chainstay. I think even the dropout might be broken. Everything just smashed. No idea what got tangled in what to cause it but it's definitely what I would call catastrophic. Nothing has survived, arse.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 12 March, 2012, 10:35:21 pm
Bugger  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 13 March, 2012, 06:51:33 am
:( Sorry to hear that plum.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 13 March, 2012, 06:53:51 am
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 13 March, 2012, 06:51:33 am
:( Sorry to hear that plum.
+1.  Glad to hear you're not hurt.  The other silver lining is that you can now fettle with purpose.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: plum on 13 March, 2012, 07:01:47 am
Cheers, just on my way in with the car to pick it up and get a closer look.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 13 March, 2012, 08:02:21 am
Last night got the closest pass I've ever had by WVM, his mirror went over my shoulder  :o > a word at the lights and I got "I haven't overtaken you"  ::-)

Lovely ride this morning, nice weather, no muppetry
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 13 March, 2012, 08:12:20 am
Quote from: plum on 12 March, 2012, 10:18:15 pm
100 yards from work there's a horrid crunching sensation from the back end and all motion stops. I get off and look and the [broken] chain is wrapped around the [broken] rear derailer which was wrenched off the frame and is now wedged in between a bunch of [broken] spokes and the [severely dented] right side chainstay. I think even the dropout might be broken. Everything just smashed. No idea what got tangled in what to cause it but it's definitely what I would call catastrophic. Nothing has survived, arse.

Look on the bright side - is it N+1 now  ;D ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 March, 2012, 09:11:21 am
Sorry to hear about your drivetrain issues, plum.  I had my own this morning, though less disastrous.

I set off into traffic after the level crossing, but got no power out.  Neutral again.  Even changing up didn't give me anything.  I got to the other side of the road without incident, fortunately, and adjusted the cable tension which seemed 'wrong'.  Riding on a bit, I realised there was a bit more to it, and discovered my wheel, which, yesterday, I had noticed seemed a bit biased to the drive side in the chainstays, was now definitely over to the other.  I stopped, inverted the bike, released cable tension, applied chain tension, then tightened the nut.  Yes, nut, for the non-drive side nut is made of Sturmey Archer Stilton, and won't catch.  >:(

I've got some dropout screws coming, which will help, but I need a new nut (and a spare - they never last long :( ).

And, no, I don't put mighty ape torque onto it.  I'm a cyclist, and have the normal arm strength for that category (i.e. all but nil).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 13 March, 2012, 09:19:39 am
Sorry to hear of people’s mechanical woes, not good.

I was approaching a WVM today and got prepared to do battle (it is one of those roads with parked cars on both sides and no space) but to my shock he had spotted me from a way off and pulled into a space and flashed me to go past. I tried not to faint in shock and instead smiled and waved, and he did the same.

The other day I did the same for a car when the space was on my side and he just charged past without acknowledging me, so I shouted ‘and thank you too!’ through his open window. This is proof that I have become my mother; she does this in the car all the time, except they usually can’t hear her.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 13 March, 2012, 09:25:39 am
Quote from: Si_Co on 13 March, 2012, 08:02:21 am
Last night got the closest pass I've ever had by WVM, his mirror went over my shoulder  :o > a word at the lights and I got "I haven't overtaken you"  ::-)

Lovely ride this morning, nice weather, no muppetry

You haven't cut off your pony tail have you? WVM normall sees ( what he assumes to be ) tottyonnabike from some distance.

Reading this worries the sh$t out of Si_Co's parents :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 March, 2012, 09:26:25 am
Put 'im on ignore ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 13 March, 2012, 09:27:20 am
no way
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: seraphina on 13 March, 2012, 09:33:20 am
Sorry to hear of people's mechanical woes.

Todays was a bit crap all round. I still have this cold but am fed up driving in and feeling sorry for myself, so hauled myself onto the bike. Muppetry from car drivers on the single-track road I take to work - a BWM shaves past me, only to have to pull in at a passing place for an oncoming car. There's plenty of room to get a bike and a car past each other on the next stretch, so I overtake and carry calmly on. Honestly, some drivers never look past their own bonnet.

Then, I encounter a deaf old man with a dog on an extendible lead (see threads passim) Extendable lead is wafer thin and almost invisible, dog is on opposite side of lane to man. I ring bell to no avail, old man is deaf as a post. I stop, and holler "Excuse me!" and eventually he twigs I'm there and hauls the dog in. He did look a bit abashed, bless him, and I don't see why he shouldn't have a nice gentle potter on a nice wee lane in the morning, but the lead thing did bother me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 13 March, 2012, 09:47:42 am
Bugger.
A bit of minor brake fettling last night evidently ended with me not tightening the rear wheel skewer enough, as I found out when I attempted to power away into a gap at a busy roundabout.
Wheel slipped and jammed itself against the chainstay, leaving me stranded in exactly the place I would not want to be stranded. 

Much appologetic hand waving from me as I struggled to get myself and the bike back to the side of the road.

Motons quite unfazed and helpful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 13 March, 2012, 10:05:12 am
Phew for you Basil.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 13 March, 2012, 10:17:42 am
Today first day in summer weight short sleeve and shorts which did lead to a lively ride and - first time evah - no pedestrian phase at Oxford Circus, I thought it was baked in, turns out it isn't.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 13 March, 2012, 10:18:16 am
I is full of cold.

Rode my bike anyway :thumbsup:

Appear to have borrowed Kim's lungs.  When they are having a bad day :(

Sunshine  :thumbsup:

Very slow, with frequent 'zOMG I'm going to fall off m'bike if I cough any more!' moments  :(

Bunged up nose meant I could hardly smell the poo factory water treatment works  :thumbsup:

All about the silver linings....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 March, 2012, 10:22:43 am
Quote from: Ham on 13 March, 2012, 10:17:42 am
Today first day in summer weight short sleeve and shorts which did lead to a lively ride and - first time evah - no pedestrian phase at Oxford Circus, I thought it was baked in, turns out it isn't.

I considered shorts & short sleeve last night, but didn't have space in my bag for the spare clothes ;D

Bit nippier this morning at 0700, so I wimped out with longs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 13 March, 2012, 10:23:38 am
27.8km/h (just over 17mph) average for my 23km this morning. Six minutes quicker than the same route yesterday!

Only negative was that because I was pushing quite hard all the way, I didn't have anything in reserve for commuter racing, so the dude on the SS Pompino who'd been drafting me through Dulwich toasted me on the short climb of Red Post Hill. Curse him!  :'(

If it was one of you lot... why I oughta!  ;D

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 13 March, 2012, 10:36:25 am
Quote from: plum on 12 March, 2012, 10:18:15 pm
100 yards from work there's a horrid crunching sensation from the back end and all motion stops... Nothing has survived, arse.

Oh my, that's nasty. Commiserations!  :(

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 13 March, 2012, 10:37:01 am
Quote from: clarion on 13 March, 2012, 10:22:43 am
Quote from: Ham on 13 March, 2012, 10:17:42 am
Today first day in summer weight short sleeve and shorts which did lead to a lively ride and - first time evah - no pedestrian phase at Oxford Circus, I thought it was baked in, turns out it isn't.

I considered shorts & short sleeve last night, but didn't have space in my bag for the spare clothes ;D

Bit nippier this morning at 0700, so I wimped out with longs.

This is my dilemma at this time of year.  Commute in the day time for a commute home in the late night or early morning darkness.  I have been wearing my 3/4s for ages as my calf muscles don't seem to mind being cold, but it is my upper body that suffers.  It is so nice to wear fewer layers though.  Makes me feel lighter and that converts to faster in my little brain  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 13 March, 2012, 10:53:57 am
I've ditched the longs so far this week - shorts plus knee warmers have been fine.

I have the same problem with the top half, GruB - I really could do with a new gilet. A thermal jersey would be too warm now.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 13 March, 2012, 12:16:26 pm
I had company.
Some (fit- in the athletic sense) bloke with RAF on his shorts, caught me up.
I said "you pace, I'll chase". "Fair enough" he says. I had to let him go after a mile or so- I can't spin fast enough on the Phillips (68"). He'd been looking over his shoulder to be sure he was keeping me (working)- nice guy.
Bloody hell though, if I didn't catch him up a bit later- UP A HILL1,2.  :smug:

1: For Norfolk meanings of hill.
2: He was, to be fair, carrying a mahoosive pack like wot solders run with.

3/4s for me, but the summer weight variety. And just a skimpy little vest under my jersey.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Marco Stefano on 13 March, 2012, 12:22:02 pm
First cycle commute for a long time, due to all sorts of things too numerous to mention.

Left off the nagging speedo ('Is that as fast as you can go?') and just flowed on; am trying to turn '1 hour 2 mins today with a tailwind' into 'that's the nth time I have cycled this week'. Apart from the usual arse in an Audi, who overtook the poor bloke who was overtaking me (& trying to give me room) on the Mildenhall road, it was good.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 13 March, 2012, 12:32:52 pm
Sleeper to London Euston + walk to Kings Cross + train to Cambridge + bus * 2 to work.

Sleeper took about 7h

Walk took about 10 minutes.

Train to Cambridge took 45 minutes + 20 mins wait while I got breakfast.

Bus * 2 to work took nearly 1h.  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 13 March, 2012, 12:49:27 pm
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 13 March, 2012, 10:18:16 am
Bunged up nose meant I could hardly smell the poo factory water treatment works  :thumbsup:

All about the silver linings....

*Pedant mode*

Water Treatment Works won't smell, Waste water treatment works will smell.

*/pedant mode*

Glad to hear you are still riding even if not feeling great.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 13 March, 2012, 03:50:08 pm
I had a lovely commute in to work last night and back home this morning. I met up with a friend and two others in Ashton Court after I finished work this morning and we had a nice pootle over to Chew Valley lake cafe where I had rhubarb crumble with custard and coffee  :D I then carried on through the fog over the mendips home. 59 miles altogether with panniers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 13 March, 2012, 04:28:13 pm
Quote from: SteveC on 12 March, 2012, 08:55:41 am
Can't say what it was like as I couldn't see anything!
Wish I'd not taken the rear lights off last week!
Foggy again. I put the rear lights back on. I now discover that the batteries in the front light are flat. Probably not worth recharging now.

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 13 March, 2012, 06:42:25 pm
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 13 March, 2012, 10:18:16 am
Appear to have borrowed Kim's lungs.  When they are having a bad day :(

Ah, that'll be where they went.  Could you rinse the grinding dust out of them when you're done, or I'll get a telling-off from barakta.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 March, 2012, 07:28:19 pm
I needed to go home rather than go to see Steph :(

To get myself in the right mindset, I headed over Lambeth Bridge to put a couple of extra miles in.

Stopped at a red light on Embankment, I saw a chap zip across the other way onto Chelsea Bridge.  It looked like Wascally Weasel.  Well, he had the cap and the pirate jersey, but he was clean shaven.

I rode on, and over Albert Bridge, remembering to break step (it's very hard on fixed, I can tell you!), and I stopped at the lights.  There, emerging from Battersea Park, was that same chap, riding a blue Ribble.  It was Wascally!

But, by the time the lights had changed and I'd negotiated a right turn, he was almost out of sight.  I rode hard to catch him, but got caught myself by yet another red light.

He hadn't escaped, though, as there was a section of road closed by Police tape because of a collision.  He turned back just in time for me to hail him and ride in his direction.  We took the Thames Path for a little while, then we went through Wandsworth, where the motor traffic was having a very hard time.  Wascally showed me some good roads cutting through to Putney Hill, and then he turned off for home.

I rode on up to the top, scalping a guy on a Cannondale, which surprised me.  Then down through Wimbledon and towards Rose Hill.  Rather than go straight up, which is tedious and can be a bit yuk with cars, I went round the side, and took Green Wrythe Lane to get me towards home.

A good ride with good company. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 13 March, 2012, 07:44:45 pm
Massive traffic jams!!!!

Was totally totally knackered and went home instead of to my circuits class. That will teach me to be lazy, punishment was to try and weave thru traffic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smurphboy on 13 March, 2012, 09:02:39 pm
Roadrat was in the LBS getting some TLC (and a new chainring) so I rode the 29er to work. I dropped off the commuter bike, walked home, mounted the 29er and realised quite quickly that SPD pedals and flat shoes is an interesting foot / pedal interface combination. No proper comedy moments apart from trying to unclip at the lights and thinking it didn't feel right.

Really enjoyed the super low bottom gear up Park St though :-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 14 March, 2012, 12:52:54 am
The train back took well over an hour (!!!!!!!) after a few pints with Butterfly and Captbob. What struck me, walking back from the airport sans hat and any CTC-approved facial hair, was that it was COLD. I have been in shorts the last few days, even after the warmth of Gib, but tonight is bitter. Perhaps it's the damp.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: slohill on 14 March, 2012, 07:20:08 am
Quote from: citoyen on 13 March, 2012, 10:53:57 am
I've ditched the longs so far this week - shorts plus knee warmers have been fine.

I have the same problem with the top half, GruB - I really could do with a new gilet. A thermal jersey would be too warm now.

d.
A move oop north would solve this problem---still in bib tights & thermal jacket.  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 14 March, 2012, 08:20:58 am
Great commuting yesterday.  Legs felt really strong.  Enjoyed the smoothness of the Etape - again.  Probably the fastest commute of the year for me so far at 16.7 mph for the 43 miles.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 14 March, 2012, 10:20:46 am
First commute in for a while. Still doing the no breakfast until at work thing but this time there wasn't another cyclist in sight, so I didn't get the commuter racing urge. Therfore I didn't bonk.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 14 March, 2012, 10:23:57 am
Mrs G has been making me oat based flapjacky type things to take in - sometimes cookies too.  Well great and keeps me going until I have to eat at lunch time.  My Carradice is now mainly food for the day  ;D  This no breakfast lark is the hardest part of day shift.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 14 March, 2012, 10:27:28 am
Lovely ride in this morning.  Usual number of morons.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 14 March, 2012, 11:14:54 am
Unleashed dogs: 3.
Unleashed toddlers: 1.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 14 March, 2012, 11:26:54 am
Quote from: slohill on 14 March, 2012, 07:20:08 am
Quote from: citoyen on 13 March, 2012, 10:53:57 am
I've ditched the longs so far this week - shorts plus knee warmers have been fine.

I have the same problem with the top half, GruB - I really could do with a new gilet. A thermal jersey would be too warm now.

d.
A move oop north would solve this problem---still in bib tights & thermal jacket.  :-[

It felt colder again this morning though that's probably because I was riding about an hour and a half earlier (my morning commute is normally train-then-ride, today I did ride-then-train). Being lightly clad wasn't a problem while I was moving, though I could have done with full gloves instead of mitts. The real problem was that I missed my train* and the next train was delayed, so I was standing on a cold platform for 25 minutes in just bibshorts, vest, regular cycling jersey and ultralightweight Montane windproof. Not warm!

Just before I got to the office, I passed a convoy of about 20 French students/tourists on their way to Tate Modern on matching green londonbicycle.com hire bikes.  :thumbsup:

d.

*Not due to being too slow, I must add, but because I misremembered the timetable.  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 14 March, 2012, 11:34:39 am
It's definitely colder today, here anyway. I was in knee warmers, though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 14 March, 2012, 12:24:26 pm
Quote from: simonp on 14 March, 2012, 11:14:54 am
Unleashed dogs: 3.
Unleashed toddlers: 1.

 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 14 March, 2012, 12:39:27 pm
Knee & arm warmers with short sleeve jersey again this morning, was a bit chilly on the arms to begin with though as it was only 5°C.  Ditched the overshoes ages ago & have been ok with woolie boolies  :thumbsup:

I have an old Assos gilet which is brilliant, the new ones are seriously pricey though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 14 March, 2012, 02:09:42 pm
My gillet is a Gore one.  Well good for keeping the upper body warm.  It has a high neck too so that is great for keeping warm.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 14 March, 2012, 02:17:27 pm
Forget dogs and toddlers, how about horses !!

I was riding along, just having left Ogbourne St. George on the backroad, coming up the steep little hill towards a sharp right, with The Ridgeway byeway coming to the road on my left.  A HORSE THEN TROTS OUT RIGHT IN FRONT OF ME.  Luckily I was not a few seconds further on or it would have T boned me.

I quickly turned around and went back down the road behind the horse trying to talk to it.  It was all lathered but luckily had a halter and lead rope on and NO saddle - so I knew I wasn't looking for a rider.  The horse got a bit skittish with me in all my lycra coming alongside but as I talked to it, it started to slow down a bit to a fast then slow walk.  It kept stepping on the lead rope that was trailing between it's legs.  It kept going down and into the village with me along side.  500 metres or so ahead was a field to my right with horses within it so I hoped it would head for it's bretheren.  As we reached this location I went ahead, jumped off and stood in the road and did my best WHOAH WHOAH impersonation and it went into the field gate entrance and enabled me to grab the lead rope.  I gave it a friendly pat on the neck and did my best soothing Aussie chat. 

Then a bloke pulls up behind the horse in his Range Rover and jumps out and says he knows whom the owner is and that this is one of her polo ponies.  He then rings her and takes the piss by saying "I've caught one of your horses, I've tied it up at ...... location". 

What an arse.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: slohill on 14 March, 2012, 04:40:15 pm
One of my scariest ever moments on a bike was when riding down a narrow lane with high hedges each side.

Just as I was passing alongside a horse and rider, someone fired a shotgun in the adjacent field.  The horse reared up and almost came down on me.  They are big beasts and I felt very small and vulnerable.  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 14 March, 2012, 04:49:11 pm
Quote from: slohill on 14 March, 2012, 04:40:15 pm
One of my scariest ever moments on a bike was when riding down a narrow lane with high hedges each side.

Just as I was passing alongside a horse and rider, someone fired a shotgun in the adjacent field.  The horse reared up and almost came down on me.  They are big beasts and I felt very small and vulnerable.  :-[

Lordy!

Just goes to show - Horses should be on a lead at all times.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 14 March, 2012, 04:53:49 pm
Finished work on time for once today, just had a nice extended ride home via Epsom Downs & Langley vale.  Bit knackered but happy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: plum on 14 March, 2012, 05:49:52 pm
Woohoo! In my ignorance I didn't realise that mech hangers are supposed to break, so apart from the dent in the seat stay [which I'm going to ignore and hope for the best] the frame will be ok. LBS [Red Kite, awesome guys in the workshop] has quoted me @ £140 to fix it all up which is frankly a relief. Was expecting worse and I'll be mobile again middle of next week. Hurrah!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 14 March, 2012, 06:00:46 pm
Quote from: plum on 14 March, 2012, 05:49:52 pm
Woohoo! In my ignorance I didn't realise that mech hangers are supposed to break, so apart from the dent in the seat stay [which I'm going to ignore and hope for the best] the frame will be ok. LBS [Red Kite, awesome guys in the workshop] has quoted me @ £140 to fix it all up which is frankly a relief. Was expecting worse and I'll be mobile again middle of next week. Hurrah!

\o/
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: seraphina on 14 March, 2012, 06:40:45 pm
First hare of the year spotted in a field on the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 14 March, 2012, 06:48:20 pm
Quote from: Chris S on 14 March, 2012, 04:49:11 pm
Quote from: slohill on 14 March, 2012, 04:40:15 pm
One of my scariest ever moments on a bike was when riding down a narrow lane with high hedges each side.

Just as I was passing alongside a horse and rider, someone fired a shotgun in the adjacent field.  The horse reared up and almost came down on me.  They are big beasts and I felt very small and vulnerable.  :-[

Lordy!

Just goes to show - Horses should be on a lead at all times.
Nah, it's the shotgun shooters that should be muzzled!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 14 March, 2012, 07:19:41 pm
Quote from: seraphina on 14 March, 2012, 06:40:45 pm
First hare of the year spotted in a field on the way home.

Not this field by any chance? http://g.co/maps/fpc24

(hint, look behind  ;D )
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JJ on 14 March, 2012, 09:30:39 pm
Made it out in semi-daylight, and home in time to put the kids to bed for the first time in ages.  Only two numpties today.  One was so desperate to overtake, he dropped two gears and floored it to try and make it into the closing 20 ft gap between me and the stationary bus.  The other took exception to my going around him on the barely moving roundabout and took great pains to block me.  I wasn't held up long and left him to his business in the traffic.  My zen remained intact - for once.  I even had enough left over to use for deflecting offspring #2's nascent tantrum.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 14 March, 2012, 10:07:11 pm
Quote from: GruB on 14 March, 2012, 10:23:57 am
My Carradice is now mainly food for the day  ;D

An interesting diet you have there GruB, did you lose a bet? Do you find the buckles a bit chewy?
Maybe you'd like my old Brooks for dessert?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dinamo on 15 March, 2012, 06:05:58 am
Only 3 degrees when l left home this morning &  very FOGGY !
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 15 March, 2012, 08:57:39 am
Note to self. Using the audax bike to commute on as a pre-ride shake-down is all well and good - but when you get to the trafficky bit of the ride, don't forget you've flipped the wheel to the 85" gear and you won't be quite as nippy in the traffic.

Looked a bit of a twunt, didn't you Chris?  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 15 March, 2012, 10:22:28 am
Quote from: Chris S on 15 March, 2012, 08:57:39 am
flipped the wheel to the 85" gear



 :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 15 March, 2012, 10:28:04 am
Quote from: jogler on 15 March, 2012, 10:22:28 am
Quote from: Chris S on 15 March, 2012, 08:57:39 am
flipped the wheel to the 85" gear
:o
Norfolk is not famed for it's hills...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 15 March, 2012, 10:31:22 am
I'm still strugglin with 63"
 ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 15 March, 2012, 10:35:37 am
Quote from: fboab on 15 March, 2012, 10:28:04 am
Quote from: jogler on 15 March, 2012, 10:22:28 am
Quote from: Chris S on 15 March, 2012, 08:57:39 am
flipped the wheel to the 85" gear
:o
Norfolk is not famed for it's hills...


(http://s0.geograph.org.uk/geophotos/02/30/97/2309750_496093fb.jpg)

About 400 metres long and the first 40 metres are 10% then goes to 16%. Been riding that hill for 30 years and I'm very tired.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 15 March, 2012, 10:38:32 am
Yes, but what's it like riding up it!? I'm sure you're very tired going down it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 15 March, 2012, 10:41:10 am
My nephew was riding down Gas Hill, his bars snapped and pierced his shoulder, he has a way cool scar.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: darkpoint on 15 March, 2012, 10:42:40 am
I had a very nice ride in today once the fog had cleared.  had a nice chat with another random cyclist at traffic lights which is the sort of thing that makes a commute really very pleasant.   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 15 March, 2012, 10:45:33 am
I'm fairly sure Gas Hill doesn't feature in Saturday's ride - but I may go and give it a try afterwards. For the LOLs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 March, 2012, 11:02:48 am
Quote from: jogler on 15 March, 2012, 10:22:28 am
Quote from: Chris S on 15 March, 2012, 08:57:39 am
flipped the wheel to the 85" gear



 :o

I use an 85" fixed gear every day.  Mind you, I do have two lower gears to help me get up to speed ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 15 March, 2012, 11:04:16 am
Quote from: clarion on 15 March, 2012, 11:02:48 am
Quote from: jogler on 15 March, 2012, 10:22:28 am
Quote from: Chris S on 15 March, 2012, 08:57:39 am
flipped the wheel to the 85" gear



 :o

I use an 85" fixed gear every day.  Mind you, most days I do have two lower gears to help me get up to speed ;)

A little clarification.... :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 March, 2012, 11:06:40 am
True enough. ;D  I have been stuck outside Lewes before with just an 85" gear anna big hill.

IANAT*



* Teethgrinder
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 15 March, 2012, 11:07:37 am
Rode in through the fog and cold, although I have shorts in my bag for later. Took it much easier than the last two days (both 1hr10/>15mph journey average - why do I do it?). Cyclist down in a pretty bad way at Bayswater Road/Carriage Drive junction was a bit of a dampner, being stretchered off as I passed, bike (spesh carbon) still stuck in bits under the front of a red van. Hope he is OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 15 March, 2012, 12:15:55 pm
There were no unleashed toddlers today. Mainly because I took the mostly road route. Said hello to Tom who used to be the landlord of the pub I'm posting from.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 15 March, 2012, 12:21:23 pm
Cycled to a meeting first thing and was most pleased to discover there were half-empty bike racks where there were none before on the pavement outside. It’s the little things…

Then down to the Embankment and back to work along the river. Gorgeous day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 15 March, 2012, 12:27:33 pm
A communal track pump has magically appeared in our bike store.  :thumbsup:

It's chained to the wall to deter the lighter-fingered among my colleagues, and there's CCTV in there, so hopefully it won't even get cannibalised for parts.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: phantasmagoriana on 15 March, 2012, 06:13:56 pm
I commuted on a Brompton, for the first time ever (I'd ridden it the half-mile or so to the shops before, but nothing else) - it being the only bike in the house in a rideable state. :facepalm:

It was slower than I'd expected (having seen Bromptoneers zooming past me on occasion), and this caused me to ride too far in to the kerb - which wasn't a good idea, especially through pinch points at which I'd normally happily take primary. Consequently I got more close passes than usual (one was closer than I'd had in a long time).

Lesson learned: don't hug the gutter, even when going slowly!
Title: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 15 March, 2012, 11:19:15 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 15 March, 2012, 12:27:33 pm
A communal track pump has magically appeared in our bike store.  :thumbsup:

It's chained to the wall to deter the lighter-fingered among my colleagues, and there's CCTV in there, so hopefully it won't even get cannibalised for parts.

d.

I've just been given 2 extra track pumps that I've been wondering what to do with.
Setting one up in the bike compound at jbex is an excellent idea.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Speshact on 15 March, 2012, 11:22:40 pm
Saw Prince Charles and Camilla again, this time on St George's Road in Southwark.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 16 March, 2012, 12:55:53 am
Felt tired coming home. The headwind didn't help.  Lost the feelings in my legs.  Eating food now.  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 16 March, 2012, 06:32:49 am
I was  doing OK yesterday until I encountered this fool.  I woudn't mind so much if it wasn't a daily occurrence


http://youtu.be/iw6BP6LbrZA (http://youtu.be/iw6BP6LbrZA)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Rig of Jarkness on 16 March, 2012, 06:55:26 am
Yesterday's ride home included the smell of my first freshly mown grass of the year and my first singing yellowhammer of the year.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 16 March, 2012, 08:21:05 am
Quote from: Rig of Jarkness on 16 March, 2012, 06:55:26 am
Yesterday's ride home included the smell of my first freshly mown grass of the year and my first singing yellowhammer of the year.

For some reason I read that as first singing sledgehammer of the year and was rather confused :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 16 March, 2012, 08:33:00 am
Quote from: Ashaman42 on 16 March, 2012, 08:21:05 am
Quote from: Rig of Jarkness on 16 March, 2012, 06:55:26 am
Yesterday's ride home included the smell of my first freshly mown grass of the year and my first singing yellowhammer of the year.

For some reason I read that as first singing sledgehammer of the year and was rather confused :)
Indeed. What was Peter Gabriel doing on your commute?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 16 March, 2012, 08:58:09 am
Bizarre happenings this morning. Just as I set off there's a short stretch of double side parked road, most drivers think there is no need to slow down as they come whizzing past me along here, so I have taken to riding wider to slow them down, then pull over slightly once they have slowed. About once a week a car will actually pull into a gap and wait for me.

This morning, in quick succession, an A class Merc, an Audi estate and a BMW X5 all pulled into available gaps.

That's like the equivalent of the Big Six on safari isn't it ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 16 March, 2012, 09:29:49 am
This morning's dog report:

Just before Barningham: A regular on the morning ride, an enormous walking carpet (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Newfoundland_%28dog%29) taking an equally enormous chap with a Hi-Vis jacket, for a walk. Always on a lead - but Oh no, FAIL this morning - walking carpet was taking a dump, and no sign of a doggie bag [sic].

Just into Barningham village: A Jack Russell, standing in the middle of the road. No apparent human nearby. Now - JRs can be vicious little fuckers, and I was ready. When it became aware of me (it had been facing away), it spun round - started yapping and headed straight for me. Too late. Way too late. I had a tailwind, an 85" gear and I was hooning along. But I unclipped my left foot anyway - in case I needed to "fend off".

In Market Weston: A very handsome German Shepherd. On a lead, well to heel - owner carrying a bag of poo. Full Marks!  :thumbsup:

Near Hinderclay: Three black Labs. All very pleased to see me passing, but well penned in.

Approaching Wortham Ling: Some weird looking thing that wouldn't have been out of place in the Star Wars Bar scene. Never seen a dog like it before. Small, almost puppyish, black. On its own in the lane. Saw me and ran straight at me. Again I was too fast.

In Diss: On the bike path from Tesco. Some toy fucker with a very flamboyant looking owner (complete with cravat). The dog had pants on. I kid you not. Frilly pants. Ah well - it is Diss after all.

It has to be said - this was not a typical morning. Normally, the Barningham Walking Carpet is all I see - and sometimes the guard dogs at the Duck Processing Plant (I assume keeping the Animal Rights terrorists at bay) in Redgrave. This morning was like Crufts!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: seraphina on 16 March, 2012, 09:35:06 am
Quote from: hatler on 16 March, 2012, 08:58:09 am
Bizarre happenings this morning. Just as I set off there's a short stretch of double side parked road, most drivers think there is no need to slow down as they come whizzing past me along here, so I have taken to riding wider to slow them down, then pull over slightly once they have slowed. About once a week a car will actually pull into a gap and wait for me.

This morning, in quick succession, an A class Merc, an Audi estate and a BMW X5 all pulled into available gaps.

That's like the equivalent of the Big Six on safari isn't it ?

I had this today - on a long stretch of single track lane. There's enough room to pass a bicycle if the car driver is careful and considerate, but today most of them actually pulled into the passing places and waited!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 16 March, 2012, 09:45:21 am
Quote from: Speshact on 15 March, 2012, 11:22:40 pm
Saw Prince Charles and Camilla again, this time on St George's Road in Southwark.

I was held up (in the car) around Dulwich picture gallery by lots of weird parking and police and people. My charge informed me that Prince Charles was visiting.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 16 March, 2012, 10:08:04 am
Bike.  Sunshine.  Choons.  Good.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 16 March, 2012, 10:15:40 am
Quote from: Chris S on 16 March, 2012, 09:29:49 am
This morning's dog report:
woof
woof
yap
grrrrrrrrrrrrr
woof

You've missed off RAF man with high vis gloves who takes it in turns with his wife a lady to empty and exercise well behaved chocolate labradoodle on a lead in Honington. Were you too busy watching my arse?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 16 March, 2012, 10:29:34 am
Quote from: fboab on 16 March, 2012, 10:15:40 am
Quote from: Chris S on 16 March, 2012, 09:29:49 am
This morning's dog report:
woof
woof
yap
grrrrrrrrrrrrr
woof

You've missed off RAF man with high vis gloves who takes it in turns with his wife a lady to empty and exercise well behaved chocolate labradoodle on a lead in Honington. Were you too busy watching my arse?

 O:-)
 :-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 16 March, 2012, 11:05:45 am
About halfway up Crystal Palace Park Rd, I spied another cyclist about 100-150m ahead. I was "taking it easy" this morning but I couldn't resist the temptation to see if I could overhaul him by the top...

As I passed him, I heard the crunch of gears as he changed up in order to jump on my wheel, then drafted me down Fountain Drive and past Dulwich College.

I feel ambivalent about drafters. As long as they don't do anything silly, I don't mind too much. It's kind of a compliment really. And as long as they appreciate that they're not riding with me, so don't expect me to make the usual hand signals that I'd make when riding in a group - though having said that, I did indicate the large puddle of broken glass by the side of the road near the top of Fountain Drive because it would have been mean not to.

Anyway, the point of my story is that when we got to the lights across the South Circ, he pulled up alongside and actually thanked me, which was much appreciated.  :thumbsup:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 16 March, 2012, 11:30:19 am
Quote from: hatler on 16 March, 2012, 08:58:09 am
Bizarre happenings this morning. Just as I set off there's a short stretch of double side parked road, most drivers think there is no need to slow down as they come whizzing past me along here, so I have taken to riding wider to slow them down, then pull over slightly once they have slowed. About once a week a car will actually pull into a gap and wait for me.

This morning, in quick succession, an A class Merc, an Audi estate and a BMW X5 all pulled into available gaps.

That's like the equivalent of the Big Six on safari isn't it ?

it's as expected as winning tonight's EuroMillions,tomorrow nights Lotto jackpot & next wednesday's Euro Millions again :o
I suggest you buy some lottery tickets :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 16 March, 2012, 11:36:31 am
Quote from: Chris S on 16 March, 2012, 09:29:49 am
This morning's dog report:

Just before Barningham: A regular on the morning ride, an enormous walking carpet (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Newfoundland_%28dog%29) taking an equally enormous chap with a Hi-Vis jacket, for a walk. Always on a lead - but Oh no, FAIL this morning - walking carpet was taking a dump, and no sign of a doggie bag [sic].

Just into Barningham village: A Jack Russell, standing in the middle of the road. No apparent human nearby. Now - JRs can be vicious little fuckers, and I was ready. When it became aware of me (it had been facing away), it spun round - started yapping and headed straight for me. Too late. Way too late. I had a tailwind, an 85" gear and I was hooning along. But I unclipped my left foot anyway - in case I needed to "fend off".

In Market Weston: A very handsome German Shepherd. On a lead, well to heel - owner carrying a bag of poo. Full Marks!  :thumbsup:

Near Hinderclay: Three black Labs. All very pleased to see me passing, but well penned in.

Approaching Wortham Ling: Some weird looking thing that wouldn't have been out of place in the Star Wars Bar scene. Never seen a dog like it before. Small, almost puppyish, black. On its own in the lane. Saw me and ran straight at me. Again I was too fast.

In Diss: On the bike path from Tesco. Some toy fucker with a very flamboyant looking owner (complete with cravat). The dog had pants on. I kid you not. Frilly pants. Ah well - it is Diss after all.

It has to be said - this was not a typical morning. Normally, the Barningham Walking Carpet is all I see - and sometimes the guard dogs at the Duck Processing Plant (I assume keeping the Animal Rights terrorists at bay) in Redgrave. This morning was like Crufts!

Quote from: fboab on 16 March, 2012, 10:15:40 am
Quote from: Chris S on 16 March, 2012, 09:29:49 am
This morning's dog report:
woof
woof
yap
grrrrrrrrrrrrr
woof

You've missed off RAF man with high vis gloves who takes it in turns with his wife a lady to empty and exercise well behaved chocolate labradoodle on a lead in Honington. Were you too busy watching my arse?

Clear evidence that we need two new threads...
one for dogs
one for arses
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 16 March, 2012, 11:38:54 am
For the first time in over a week we have no fog, so I could take my longer route in.
And the roadworks at the end of the bypass were 'reconfigured' yesterday so the bypass is open again, meaning far fewer cars coming through the village.
Best commute of the week!

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 16 March, 2012, 02:10:10 pm
I had a race this morning.  Well, not exactly a race, more a speed trial.  The interesting thing was that we both agreed to it beforehand.

Going into Battersea Park there's a fella on big wheeled fixie.  Green wheel at the front, the rest of the bike in matt black.  So I ask him if his wheels are 29" 'cos they look big and he starts telling about his fixed wheel, no brakes and that his bike's fast.  "How fast?" I ask.  Oh, yeah, really, really fast.  "Come on then," I say.  And we're off.  We wind it up to 26mph and hold it for a few hundred metres.  Thank God he backed off 2 seconds before I was shot.

Felt great in an exuberant sort of way.  And I won!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 16 March, 2012, 02:20:56 pm
Quote from: Chris L on 16 March, 2012, 02:10:10 pm
I had a race this morning.  Well, not exactly a race, more a speed trial.  The interesting thing was that we both agreed to it beforehand.

Going into Battersea Park there's a fella on big wheeled fixie.  Green wheel at the front, the rest of the bike in matt black.  So I ask him if his wheels are 29" 'cos they look big and he starts telling about his fixed wheel, no brakes and that his bike's fast.  "How fast?" I ask.  Oh, yeah, really, really fast.  "Come on then," I say.  And we're off.  We wind it up to 26mph and hold it for a few hundred metres.  Thank God he backed off 2 seconds before I was shot.

Felt great in an exuberant sort of way.  And I won!
Which bike were you on ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 16 March, 2012, 03:13:18 pm
I'd like say I was on my Brompton, but I wasn't.  I was on my super-speedy Principia.  20 gears - 1; big wheels - 0. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 16 March, 2012, 03:34:29 pm
Aren't 29ers just 700c with big tyres?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: slohill on 16 March, 2012, 04:35:10 pm
Quote from: Chris S on 16 March, 2012, 09:29:49 am
In Diss: On the bike path from Tesco. Some toy fucker with a very flamboyant looking owner (complete with cravat). The dog had pants on. I kid you not. Frilly pants. Ah well - it is Diss after all.

Are you sure you could tell which was the dog and which was the other dog?   :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 16 March, 2012, 04:36:36 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 16 March, 2012, 03:34:29 pm
Aren't 29ers just 700c with big tyres?

Indeed they are, road bike wheels, mountain bike tyres...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 16 March, 2012, 05:01:47 pm
Quote from: tiermat on 16 March, 2012, 04:36:36 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 16 March, 2012, 03:34:29 pm
Aren't 29ers just 700c with big tyres?

Indeed they are, road bike wheels, mountain bike tyres...

That's interesting!  I'd always thought they were actually bigger and the extra (reported) comfort/smoother rolling was because the wheel was flexier.  How 'bout that!

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 16 March, 2012, 05:55:40 pm
Buggrit.  First faerie visitation while commuting for ages and ages.  Walked about a mile to work, then optioneered (yes, I know... ::-)) my return journey; when it finally reached home o'clock, I walked the bike home again.  Only took about an hour.

A huge thorn was the cause. It seems to have gone around the side of the kevlar belt.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 16 March, 2012, 06:47:53 pm
Quote from: tiermat on 16 March, 2012, 04:36:36 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 16 March, 2012, 03:34:29 pm
Aren't 29ers just 700c with big tyres?

Indeed they are, road bike wheels, mountain bike tyres...

And they are the future :D

As a fat bike tyre diameter is also 29" does that make fat bikes 29ers even though they have 26" rims?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Speshact on 16 March, 2012, 09:12:57 pm
I passed Ada and Phyllis
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-17365934
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 17 March, 2012, 08:15:26 am
Quote from: Speshact on 16 March, 2012, 09:12:57 pm
I passed Ada and Phyllis
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-17365934
If that's a commuter-racing "scalp", then I think you've set your sights a bit low. ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 17 March, 2012, 07:01:57 pm
Had to stop and wait for a military convoy that was comng towards us when we wanted to turn left.

You don't argue with 40 or so Saudi tacticals + 20 or so 30 tonne trucks.

 :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 18 March, 2012, 11:47:49 pm
Quote from: jogler on 16 March, 2012, 11:36:31 am
Quote from: Chris S on 16 March, 2012, 09:29:49 am
Just into Barningham village: A Jack Russell, standing in the middle of the road. No apparent human nearby. Now - JRs can be vicious little fuckers, and I was ready. When it became aware of me (it had been facing away), it spun round - started yapping and headed straight for me. Too late. Way too late. I had a tailwind, an 85" gear and I was hooning along. But I unclipped my left foot anyway - in case I needed to "fend off".

Quote from: fboab on 16 March, 2012, 10:15:40 am
Were you too busy watching my arse?

Clear evidence that we need two new threads...
one for dogs
one for arses
Clear evidence one should not try and draft (obviously not "f")boab, if she's keeping in front of Chris  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 19 March, 2012, 08:52:21 am
*counts fingers*
*counts toes*
Brrrr.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 March, 2012, 09:13:07 am
What a lovely ride this morning!  I was a bit sleepy to go out early with Butterfly, so I got an extra half hour's sleep and took my more direct route.  It was really fast this morning, and I thought I must have had a tailwind, but the evidence doesn't bear this out.  Just rolling well in crisp sunshine, changing places with a chap on a Fuji Absolute 3.0 and another fellow on a Langster (till he RLJed one time too many and got away).  So many cyclists at Stockwell that there was a slow lane on the magic blue paint and a fast lane overtaking.  Constant stream of riders.  Marvellous!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 19 March, 2012, 11:36:09 am
Lovely ride in this morning apart from two minor glitches. The second was that my glasses fogged up completely just as I was trying to cross a main road.
The first was potentially more serious. Going through the village at the top of the hill I notice the road is wet. This was a bit odd as it didn't rain last night. Over the first speed bump. There's too much water for it to have been someone washing a car, or something like that. Must be a leak somewhere. Over the second speed bump and I notice the smell. It is a leak and not an incoming main :sick: 
Have to hope I didn't breathe in anything too nasty. I may avoid that road for a day or two.

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 19 March, 2012, 11:45:49 am
Do. I cycled through a burst sewage outflow in a thunderstorm and was out for a week or two with a really unpleasant chest infection.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 19 March, 2012, 11:59:17 am
Nice and sunny this morning, but cold enough for hoar frost. Wasn't expecting that!

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 19 March, 2012, 12:21:38 pm
Blitzed Tooting Bec this morning. I don't know what's up with me recently, but I'm routinely hitting 45kph along there, sometimes into the low 50's. Today was 52 kph, but the fun bit was pulling around the back of a car and overtaking it cleanly on a clear road. I guess he was looking at his speedo and keeping it legal!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 19 March, 2012, 01:01:32 pm
Nervous commute in this morning.  Yesterday I washed the bike and noticed the rear tyre is very close to end of life, beyond what a sensible person should use.  I had a search for the spare, I know I have one, but I failed to find it. So I set off this morning expecting the Continental 'One' Season to blow at any moment.  I did not so I can have a worried ride home this evening. Of course it is not going to blow at the moment, the P fairy is waiting for me to be out in the rain.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 19 March, 2012, 08:00:11 pm
On the way home this evening. I approach the exit road to the industrial estate where I work. As is often the case, there's a car badly parked on the double yellows that run upto and around the T junction. There's a corner shop on the, umm, corner so people park and stagger the few steps to it. This example ticked several boxes: On the double yellows, a couple of feet from the kerb and on the apex of the bend.

The driver was just getting out, so I spoke to her:

"Well, that's not a very clever place to park"

<angry look from driver>

"Go and...

(she thinks up a cutting remark)

... ride a bike"

I ride off, boggling and chuckling in equal measure.

 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 19 March, 2012, 08:04:18 pm
Shorts.
Mistake.
Chavs: chants.
Chilly.
Title: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 19 March, 2012, 08:14:33 pm
I faffed up this morning.
Going round the white hart roundabout, the sun was shining brightly on the traffic lights, and I think the phasing has also been altered, so it was a couple of seconds after I sailed through a red light before I realised what I had done, just as three lanes of joining traffic got their green signal.
Lots of cars braking, hooting and shouting.
Totally my fault, lucky to have made it through.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 March, 2012, 09:27:16 pm
I did a bit of Embankment on the way home, then Wandsworth, Tooting, home.  Some pillock rode into my back wheel when i stopped at a red light.  I confess I laughed at him.

But it was a grand ride.  At Eastfields, I had one of those glorious moments when a stupid tosser squeezes past only to get caught immediately in the queue for the level crossing, while I sail past, then carry my bike over the footbridge before the gates open.

On the other side, as I was faffing, I saw two young women riding gracefully past on BSOs, but obviously having fun.

When I caught them up and rode past, one broke into the inevitable Queen song.  As I waited at the traffic lights by the Common, they came past again to head the other way.  Two women utility cyclists just having fun.  Wonderful :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 19 March, 2012, 10:34:14 pm
Forgot to say earlier: This afternoon I caught a train to That London as I had a meeting in Fitzrovia. Off to Ashley Place and hired a Boris Bike (unwieldy, stubborn, and a dodgy shade of blue. Plus they have a habit of costing more than they promised).  Tapped my destination into Ovimaps on my phone, earpiece in ear and away we go.

Somewhere north of Oxford Street I pull up at a red light. A spangly Dolan drifts past my shoulder, drifts past the light, edging over the junction and then he's away. And my light goes green. And I give it some. And nearly catch him.  What larks!

Found a parking spot just round the corner from my first choice, have my meeting then get another bike.

This time down Oxford Street to Marble Arch. Blimey, there's a lot of traffic lights.  Hammer down Park Lane, round HPC without the aid of a Leg-Bandaged guardian.

And then onto the train back to the office.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 20 March, 2012, 07:45:39 am
Yellowhammers, (possibly) Skylarks and lambs in the fields.  Spring is here.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 20 March, 2012, 08:28:53 am
Actually from last week.

(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7123/6999332491_a69d87a8ce.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/marcusjb/6999332491/)
That should buff out easily enough (http://www.flickr.com/photos/marcusjb/6999332491/) by marcus_jb1973 (http://www.flickr.com/people/marcusjb/), on Flickr

Oops.

Best part was the taxi driver's choice of location for his mishap - right outside Stamford brook bus depot - so every driver on duty had to come and have a gander.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mike on 20 March, 2012, 08:38:36 am
riding home last night at dusk, and someone riding a brand-new-and-very-shiny road bike wobbles out of the side road in front of me.  I give chase (obviously) and we're soon doing about 20ish through the village.  I managed to sit on his wheel for long enough for him to notice me and I could see him thinking 'bugger, there's a fat bloke in a reflective jacket on a stupid bike' (me moulton :) )  and he speeds up... I manage to stick with him, just, while he keeps glancing back to see if he's dropped me yet, speeding up every time 

thankfully he turned off about 10 yards before I exploded :D   I gave him a cheery wave, waited till he was out of sight, then quietly died.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 20 March, 2012, 08:42:00 am
Quote from: fboab
Morning!
Earlier today I was passed far too close by your driver, as I was cycling through Euston on the A1088. He wasn't alone in passing too close, but none of the others had their contact details on their vehicles.

The irony of my life being endangered by a van bearing the strap line 'safe sport UK' is not lost on me.

If you could remind him/her that the highway code advises a) do not cross double white lines and b) pass cycles with the same space you'd give a car, I, and any other cyclists she happens to pass on the roads, would much appreciate it.

Thanks
fboab
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 20 March, 2012, 08:48:16 am
Quote from: marcusjb on 20 March, 2012, 08:28:53 am
Actually from last week.

Oops.

Best part was the taxi driver's choice of location for his mishap - right outside Stamford brook bus depot - so every driver on duty had to come and have a gander.

Oooh oooh oooh!!! I love it! I bet the taxi driver was wailing and gnashing his teeth and blaming the bus driver too. Makes me think of the driver who got his door taken off by the tank transporter on police camera action. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 20 March, 2012, 08:51:46 am
Shame FBOAB, have a virtual hug!! I really feel for you, I hate those overtakes as much as you do, I think.

Have you thought about trying to edumacate the regulars on your commute? I always give a toot on the airzound (or a very loud OOOIIII) and make a pushing out to the right motion with my arm when I get a close one, and this has made a huge difference on my commute. Sure, I still get close passes, but far fewer of them because not only does the driver learn from his/her mistake, but also all the other drivers nearby at the time. Usually the next driver goes in the next lane to pass me after one of those.  ;D

Sometimes the edumacated driver makes an angry pointy left motion, but I've long stopped caring about that because usually next time they pass me properly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 20 March, 2012, 08:52:23 am


Quote from: Wendy on 20 March, 2012, 08:48:16 am
Quote from: marcusjb on 20 March, 2012, 08:28:53 am
Actually from last week.

Oops.

Best part was the taxi driver's choice of location for his mishap - right outside Stamford brook bus depot - so every driver on duty had to come and have a gander.

Oooh oooh oooh!!! I love it! I bet the taxi driver was wailing and gnashing his teeth and blaming the bus driver too. Makes me think of the driver who got his door taken off by the tank transporter on police camera action. ;D

Given the widely held belief that bus drivers & taxi drivers are amongst the least considerate drivers on the road & represent a high risk to other road users there is some sort of karma occurring there ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 20 March, 2012, 09:14:39 am
Yesterday my front gear cable died on the way home. By Mitcham road I didn't have a big ring and by the last main junction the cable had snapped altogether and I just had the granny. Fortunately it's pretty much uphill from there anyway :). Clarion replaced the cable and this morning I had a fantastic ride in, in the sunshine :D.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 March, 2012, 09:48:42 am
Yes, what a wonderful day for a bike ride today! :D

I sped in on the normal route, then turned off at Oval and right at the Imperial War Museum.  I estimated this extra bit (which avoids the jostling bit of Oval and the E&C mess) would add an extra kilometre to make 20 as a regular ride.  Sadly, it was 300m short, so I had to do a loop round the block.  No worries - I can add a bit more.

That route does take one of the siliest bits of cycle lane.  It seems OK, as it allows permeability to get to St Georges Circus.  Problem is that the only lowered bit of quite a high kerb is at the end of the lane, which emerges half a bus length from the Stop Line.  That distance is crucial, as, whenever the traffic isn't flowing straight past nose to tail, there is a bus stopped at the lights.  :-\

Most cyclists, like me, just drop down the kerb behind the bus.  It would have been soooo easy to divert it one way or the other.  But they didn't. ::-)

Anyway, it doesn't take the shine off a lovely ride with loads and loads of cyclists of all types, which was just wonderful :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 20 March, 2012, 10:35:05 am
Blimey. Three similar bikes (including mine) on the Col de Kingston this morning. Expensivey looking drop handlebar bikes with panniers. Never seen that before in eight years on this route.

I wupped them up the hill but one got past on the drop towards the hospital.

And I now have about a week under my belt without one close pass. Funny how it goes in phases.

And Spring is here. How special is that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 20 March, 2012, 11:20:04 am
On my ride into town (which passes for a commute at the moment) I had a local farm supplies pick up pass me >< this close.

I rode on then realised he will be held up at the lights.  I got to him, rode alongside and decided on the Hearts and Minds approach rather than the ranty monster approach.

ME(through open window): "You were a bit close there mate"
Him (Winding window all the way down, a good sign): "Where, back near Romanby?"
ME: "Yes, you were a bit too close as you passed"
Him: "Sorry, I though I had given you enough room"
ME: "Ok, just try and give a bit more room next time, please"
Him: "Sure, sorry again"

Light change, I rode off ahead of him and he held back until I turned off.

As I say above, a hearts and minds thing.  It worked today, might not have another day :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 20 March, 2012, 11:21:04 am
Quote from: tiermat on 20 March, 2012, 11:20:04 am
On my ride into town (which passes for a commute at the moment) I had a local farm supplies pick up pass me >< this close.

I rode on then realised he will be held up at the lights.  I got to him, rode alongside and decided on the Hearts and Minds approach rather than the ranty monster approach.

ME(through open window): "You were a bit close there mate"
Him (Winding window all the way down, a good sign): "Where, back near Romanby?"
ME: "Yes, you were a bit too close as you passed"
Him: "Sorry, I though I had given you enough room"
ME: "Ok, just try and give a bit more room next time, please"
Him: "Sure, sorry again"

Light change, I rode off ahead of him and he held back until I turned off.

As I say above, a hearts and minds thing.  It worked today, might not have another day :)

Nice one T  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 20 March, 2012, 11:22:04 am
LG, I didn't even need to deploy the carbon soled cycling shoes :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 20 March, 2012, 11:44:23 am
Quote from: tiermat on 20 March, 2012, 11:22:04 am
LG, I didn't even need to deploy the carbon soled cycling shoes :)

Not even the Indian War Cry?   ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 20 March, 2012, 11:53:32 am
Get to work. Go to lock bike. Where are my keys? In my Barley. Where's my Barley?

So that's a 3x normal commute distance.  :facepalm:

Not as if I was feeling tired already.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 20 March, 2012, 11:58:52 am
It took me about a year to work out the way round this kind of failure.

On one key-ring place keys for all the following : -
  Front door
  Garage
  Bike lock
  Work desk

This way I can't get to work without having the keys on me, and I can get to my laptop when I get there and lock my bike.

If you keep your bike in the house, double lock your front door at night so that you can't get out of the house without your keys.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 20 March, 2012, 12:03:50 pm
I had my very first ever 'get in the cycle path', out of the passenger window of a 4x4!

I gave her a big cheerful grin and continued to exit the roundabout.  Fortunately the exit is quite wide and I am aware of where the pothole-y bits are, so her rather impatient pass whilst exiting the roundabout and ranting (way to multi-task) at me didn't pose a problem.

A little further along the A166 there's a section of double whites along a narrow-ish bendy stretch.  I heard the coach behind me, checked my shoulder and saw that he was, thankfully, staying back, since there was a pretty constant stream of oncoming traffic.  Such courtesy requires paying back to I upped the speed as much as possible despite the (very) mild incline, then pulled into the first available driveway on the left to let him and the vehicles behind past.  And got a couple of thank you waves.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 20 March, 2012, 12:15:48 pm
Quote from: hatler on 20 March, 2012, 11:58:52 am
It took me about a year to work out the way round this kind of failure.

On one key-ring place keys for all the following : -
  Front door
  Garage
  Bike lock
  Work desk

This way I can't get to work without having the keys on me, and I can get to my laptop when I get there and lock my bike.

If you keep your bike in the house, double lock your front door at night so that you can't get out of the house without your keys.

All the keys are on the same key ring already.  Well, apart from the shower locker at work which is on a swimming pool arm band and thus can't go on my keyring. So I leave that at work to avoid forgetting it, but it means I always have to go to my desk to collect it before going to the showers.

The problem was I'd put my keys, wallet, phone in the barley, but left the barley sat outside the garage and cycled off. Normally if I do this I notice immediately because the bike feels wrong but I was towing a trailer so didn't notice the back of the bike being light.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 20 March, 2012, 12:28:46 pm
Agh !

I once had to go back into the house (for my sunnies I think) after getting the bike out of the garage and got distracted by a small hatler. Put my keys down on the hall table and set off for work. Grrrr. No system is 100% infallible.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 20 March, 2012, 12:42:53 pm
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 20 March, 2012, 12:03:50 pm
And got a couple of thank you waves.

Obv. because you're lovely!!!

Doesn't it half make you feel good though?  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 20 March, 2012, 12:44:18 pm
Quote from: simonp on 20 March, 2012, 12:15:48 pm
All the keys are on the same key ring already.

Same here, and I've forgotten them a few times. Fortunately, security keep spares of the locker keys so I can get them to open it for me in an emergency. Though there was the time they were unable to open it for some reason so I had to nip out to M&S to buy some Emergency Trousers (no way am I spending a day in the office in lycra shorts, not with my "comedically gifted" colleagues).

I keep the spare of my desk drawer key taped to the underside of my desk. I tried to get a spare cut of my locker key but they use some weird high-security lock that baffles your average high street locksmith.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 20 March, 2012, 12:54:23 pm
Had to take evasive action to avoid a mobile phone-wielding Virgin Media van driver who was speeding towards me on my side of the road, passing parked cars on the other side and children walking to school along both pavements. Didn't get the plate but they all have Stobart-style names on the front, so a complaint has gone in about "Van Morrison"  The local depot is less than half a mile away so I doubt the driver will be too hard to identify.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 20 March, 2012, 06:31:11 pm
Must be spring - first time I've had to dismount the trike for a horse since last summer.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 20 March, 2012, 06:49:02 pm
I've spent 15 minutes on the phone to DHL.

They have some lovely ladies in customer services, but I'm not sure I 100% believe they can't trace the utter selfish bastard who assumed I was pulling in to the bus stop to let him pass. If I was going to do that, I'd've indicated, but I didn't, so passing me as if I had pulled in was just, well. Typical of my commute, and not in a good way.
Being passed that close, by something that big, going that fast is not really an exception, and I'm sick of it.
I can't keep doing this. Even aside from the fact it's turning me into a whinging chicken, a jibbering nervous wreck who has to take comedy items to defend herself, one day the fuckers will kill me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 20 March, 2012, 06:58:05 pm
Quote from: fboab on 20 March, 2012, 06:49:02 pm
I've spent 15 minutes on the phone to DHL.

They have some lovely ladies in customer services, but I'm not sure I 100% believe they can't trace the utter selfish bastard who assumed I was pulling in to the bus stop to let him pass. If I was going to do that, I'd've indicated, but I didn't, so passing me as if I had pulled in was just, well. Typical of my commute, and not in a good way.
Being passed that close, by something that big, going that fast is not really an exception, and I'm sick of it.
I can't keep doing this. Even aside from the fact it's turning me into a whinging chicken, a jibbering nervous wreck who has to take comedy items to defend herself, one day the fuckers will kill me.

Well, that's not good  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Domestique on 20 March, 2012, 07:08:00 pm
Quote from: fboab on 20 March, 2012, 06:49:02 pm
Being passed that close, by something that big, going that fast is not really an exception, and I'm sick of it.

The thing that gets me with pass's by large trucks, bus's and also car's is that they do not slow down at all even though there is very little room for error.
Your not alone in the feeling of sick of it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GruB on 20 March, 2012, 07:41:37 pm
Nearly got taken out by a head on car derived van as I approached Liddington.  I imagined the BMW behind it was calling the police - possibly about poor driving before it got to me, then the caller says "and now it has nearly taken out a cyclist"....  ;D
Title: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 20 March, 2012, 08:23:59 pm
Approaching a zebra crossing today, as I was in the zig-zags, moving out from secondary to 'assertive secondary' I heard the revving engine behind me.
I instinctively put out my right hand in a 'do not pass' gesture, realised they were not going to hold back, and started with the 'OY' shout.
The car that performed the inevitable close pass swerving to avoid the bollards? A police car!
A few seconds later, 2 cycle coppers coming the other way gave him a cheery wave as they passed.

As I was never going to catch the car, as all the traffic lights were against me, I ranted at the cycle coppers instead.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 March, 2012, 08:31:23 pm
I had an overtake in Carshalton High Street as I was indicating to turn right :facepalm:

And, at Hackbridge, a car pull right out of the queue without indicating.  That'll be the queue I was overtaking at the time prior to turning right.  I managed to avoid him.  Oh, and then there was the van tailgating a bus on Hackbridge Road which didn't pull out to overtake me as the bus had done...  Lots of numpties tonight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 20 March, 2012, 08:40:06 pm
Nothing much happened as usual.  The only point of interest at all was as I watched a cyclist undertake a queuing bus that was so close to the side of the road that she had to paddle her left foot along the curb to get past.  Luckily the bus remained stationary as she did this.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 March, 2012, 08:40:49 pm
I should mention that it was a really great ride despite the motons :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 20 March, 2012, 08:41:39 pm
Glorious ride home tonight!  Light nearly all the way home, warm enough for short sleeves & no arm warmers + the folly lane descent  :D

Glad I only have to do about 2miles of main roads on my 20mile route.  fboab's commute sound like hell  :demon:
Title: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 20 March, 2012, 08:48:46 pm
As with Clarion. Despite the numpties, I wouldn't want to commute any other way than by bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Speshact on 20 March, 2012, 10:47:24 pm
Quote from: fboab on 20 March, 2012, 06:49:02 pm
Being passed that close, by something that big, going that fast is not really an exception, and I'm sick of it.
I can't keep doing this. Even aside from the fact it's turning me into a whinging chicken, a jibbering nervous wreck who has to take comedy items to defend herself, one day the fuckers will kill me.

I can't remember if I've suggested this, but please ask your local councillors, police superintendent, MP etc. etc. to accompany on your commute and tell you what they'll do to make it pleasant not only for yourself but for the grannies and teenagers who daren't take to cycling in their area.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 March, 2012, 09:05:18 am
Lovely ride in.  First time this week I've headed out with Butterfly.  Actually, she was a bit late, so we sped (FSVO speed) over Streatham Hill and down to her work, where we were, in fact, so early, she had the opportunity to do a loop through the park.  That was nice.  Except for being bashed by a wing mirror and threatened by a moron in a van.

Then I went up Shakespeare Road and to my work, taking a short diversion to buy some bits & pieces for lunch to add to the salad and cheese I had on board. 

Lovely ride, but I shall be making two Roadsafe reports and one complaint.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 21 March, 2012, 09:07:16 am
Yesterday had a lot of bad driving. The nearest miss I saw was a car accelerating madly to get through the lights at the common (which were still green, so no hurry ::-)) ignoring the siren and blue lights that could easily be seen lighting up the trees on the common and having to do an emergency stop to avoid the ambulance car crossing the lights from his left. I hope the smell of poo stays with him - it was a matter of inches. He then drove on at a much more sensible pace than he had been planning, so he clearly had a temporary lesson, at least :-\. Today was a lovely ride apart from the shocking behaviour of a van on Streatham hill.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cus666 on 21 March, 2012, 09:25:04 am
Pretty chilly in Sheffield this morning but still a very good ride in apart from the idiot who thought leaving his car door wide open will I cycled towards him on a very narrow road was exceptable....  a very flat thank you as I went past certainly woke him up  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 21 March, 2012, 09:51:58 am
I'm quite enjoying the daylight commutes in the morning, though have yet to manage an evening one.  I'm also thrilled with all the people I've seen on Norris Bikes since the stations in Tower Hamlets opened for business. :thumbsup:

Decided not to do the longer loop last night as I got out of work quite late and still had things to do at home.  Just as I approached Westferry DLR I noticed the bike felt a bit funny.  Yep, the rear tyre was flat.  >:(  The offending object quite quite evident in my M+ Tour tyre (pic (https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-V72f7U5fTx8/T2l6FrdB5mI/AAAAAAAABO0/ejkBXzQtlTw/s800/P1020206.JPG)).  I had trouble removing it until I decided to use a screwdriver.  :o  Although M+s are great, not even they can protect against the offending object encountered last night (pic (https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-F7-T1SrEhE4/T2l7l3KrARI/AAAAAAAABO8/fX4HH5q-F2o/s800/P1020208.JPG)).  Of the DOZENS of cyclists who passed me while I replaced the tube only one bothered to ask if I was OK.  He then went on to have a moan about how "shit" Norris Bikes were and prattle on about a bunch of other pointless stuff.  All I wanted to do was get back on the road, all he saw was a captive audience.  ::-)  He didn't leave until I have flipped my bike right-side up and started packing away my tools. *sigh*

I now either need to buy more tubes or start patching the collection of punctured ones I've saved.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 21 March, 2012, 10:05:19 am
Quote from: Andrij on 21 March, 2012, 09:51:58 am
I'm quite enjoying the daylight commutes in the morning, though have yet to manage an evening one.  I'm also thrilled with all the people I've seen on Norris Bikes since the stations in Tower Hamlets opened for business. :thumbsup:

Decided not to do the longer loop last night as I got out of work quite late and still had things to do at home.  Just as I approached Westferry DLR I noticed the bike felt a bit funny.  Yep, the rear tyre was flat.  >:(  The offending object quite quite evident in my M+ Tour tyre (pic (https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-V72f7U5fTx8/T2l6FrdB5mI/AAAAAAAABO0/ejkBXzQtlTw/s800/P1020206.JPG)).  I had trouble removing it until I decided to use a screwdriver.  :o  Although M+s are great, not even they can protect against the offending object encountered last night (pic (https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-F7-T1SrEhE4/T2l7l3KrARI/AAAAAAAABO8/fX4HH5q-F2o/s800/P1020208.JPG)).  Of the DOZENS of cyclists who passed me while I replaced the tube only one bothered to ask if I was OK.  He then went on to have a moan about how "shit" Norris Bikes were and prattle on about a bunch of other pointless stuff.  All I wanted to do was get back on the road, all he saw was a captive audience.  ::-)  He didn't leave until I have flipped my bike right-side up and started packing away my tools. *sigh*

I now either need to buy more tubes or start patching the collection of punctured ones I've saved.

You were royally screwed in so many ways.....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 21 March, 2012, 11:05:08 am
Quote from: fboab on 20 March, 2012, 06:49:02 pm
I've spent 15 minutes on the phone to DHL.

They have some lovely ladies in customer services, but I'm not sure I 100% believe they can't trace the utter selfish bastard who assumed I was pulling in to the bus stop to let him pass. If I was going to do that, I'd've indicated, but I didn't, so passing me as if I had pulled in was just, well. Typical of my commute, and not in a good way.
Being passed that close, by something that big, going that fast is not really an exception, and I'm sick of it.
I can't keep doing this. Even aside from the fact it's turning me into a whinging chicken, a jibbering nervous wreck who has to take comedy items to defend herself, one day the fuckers will kill me.


Boabers. Seriously, have you considered putting a 'lollipop' on your bike to create that extra bit of space you justifiably need. Alternatively, try cycling with an un-done jacket. The flapping for some reason seems to help in making vehicles steer slightly wider than normal.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 21 March, 2012, 11:09:47 am
I had a leisurely commute, saving energy for The Dean. I also had a flat on the trailer, so I left it at home today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dibdib on 21 March, 2012, 12:33:21 pm
Left the house a few minutes later than I'd have liked, so decided "Oh I'll just pedal a bit harder it'll be fine".

Got to work knackered but not really noticably earlier than I would have done at a more reasonable pace - so still late, just more out of breath. Still, beats wimping out and taking the car.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 21 March, 2012, 05:02:44 pm
Quote from: Riggers on 21 March, 2012, 11:05:08 am
Alternatively, try cycling with an un-done jacket. The flapping for some reason seems to help in making vehicles steer slightly wider than normal.

I too hold this opinion:
 flap jack is good.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 21 March, 2012, 05:06:33 pm
Lovely ride in. Along the Embankment, saw a RLJ-er on a hire bike being berated by a rider on a black mtb with black Ortlieb pannier (in case on here). Well said, that man.  :thumbsup:

Not on the bike but a moment of fun this afternoon. While I was waiting to cross Haymarket, a mobile phone wielder drove through the amber light so I bellowed in my sternest sounding voice: You there, put down that 'phone.  It worked. The phone went down like a shot  ;D  He still looked a bit shocked when I walked past him a minute or so later.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 21 March, 2012, 07:52:45 pm
Tonight's commute should have been great in the warm sunshine, but it became something of a mare. Ho hum. Can't win 'em all.

Sorry :-(.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 March, 2012, 09:17:13 pm
Good ride home.  One of those where, as I rode out of the gate at work, I still hadn't decided which way I was going to turn. 

Serendipity guided my wheels.  OK, so I wish Serendipity had kept me away from Streatham High Road, but I had fun down Mitcham Lane :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 22 March, 2012, 09:15:23 am
First visitation in over a year thie morning.
Fortunately not too far from work so I walked the rest of the way, but it kind of spoils the plans for the lunchtime ride.

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 22 March, 2012, 09:22:00 am
First real (as opposed to virtual commute since January due to a mixture of surgery, cba, working from home and having to wear a suit ???

Maybe it's because I've been not commuting, or maybe because it's because it's lighter but I noticed far more close passes today. Far more cyclists out too, probably due to the good weather.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: seraphina on 22 March, 2012, 09:26:55 am
Beautiful day in but a colder than it looks. Got really quite cold yesterday commuting in just  jersey, so have got my jacket with me today. One dimwit driver in a village went to overtake a parked removals van, taking up all the opposite lane. Which was a shame, as I was in the opposite lane enjoying my right of way. So I stopped in the middle and gave a Hard Stare. He stopped but gestured at me to get out of the way ::-)
For bonus ExtraWellArd points to be consumed with custard at lunch, I'm running as well at work before cycling home. Hooray for Spring!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 22 March, 2012, 11:29:05 am
Had intended to do a shorter route this morning so I could get to work early but it was too nice out there not to take advantage, and I was feeling strong, so sod work, it can wait, did my usual ride from Bromley. Must have been in even better shape than I realised. Got a bit fired up and accidentally set a PB, averaging 27.8km/h. No evidence of wind assistance either.

Only down side was that being a bit fired up shattered my usual shell of zen calm and I gave a couple of motorists somewhat strident assessments of their driving skills when I normally wouldn't have allowed them to bother me.

Oops.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 22 March, 2012, 11:47:12 am
Quote from: clarion on 21 March, 2012, 09:17:13 pm
Good ride home.  One of those where, as I rode out of the gate at work, I still hadn't decided which way I was going to turn. 

Serendipity guided my wheels.  OK, so I wish Serendipity had kept me away from Streatham High Road, but I had fun down Mitcham Lane :D


Thought there was a Court Order preventing you from doing exactly this Clarrers. Or has it lapsed?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 March, 2012, 11:48:55 am
I choose to ignore it ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 22 March, 2012, 12:04:17 pm
Simonb, I'm doing the Dean too.

The commuting thing is feeling a bit easier now the weather is improving, its been verging on light by the time I get there too, not got any light on the way home yet.

It's nice being out in the fresh air though, even having to deal with idiot drivers every day. I swear not a day goes by without at least one near miss.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 22 March, 2012, 12:07:58 pm
Fastest ride in so far this year.  12.7miles in 41.54minutes @ 18.2mph avg  :)
Kept getting held up by traffic as well  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 22 March, 2012, 12:29:33 pm
Definitely skylarks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 22 March, 2012, 12:40:26 pm
Quote from: PaulF on 22 March, 2012, 09:22:00 am
First real (as opposed to virtual commute since January due to a mixture of surgery, cba, working from home and having to wear a suit ???

Maybe it's because I've been not commuting, or maybe because it's because it's lighter but I noticed far more close passes today. Far more cyclists out too, probably due to the good weather.

I definetly notice that passing distance decreases the lighter it gets
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 22 March, 2012, 01:22:50 pm
I think today was one of those days that I can not believe people drive cars to work.  I really enjoyed the cycle.  I loved the way my bike swiftly rolled along, the sunlight, the sky, the sheep in the fields, the .....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 22 March, 2012, 01:26:10 pm
It was a lovely morning here and the roads were particularly busy. Queues of cars that I breezed past. Stupid people.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 March, 2012, 01:27:23 pm
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 22 March, 2012, 01:22:50 pm
I think today was one of those days that I can not believe people drive cars to work.  ...

Most days are like that for me, but, yes, today was particularly so.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 22 March, 2012, 02:14:01 pm
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 22 March, 2012, 01:22:50 pm
I think today was one of those days that I can not believe people drive cars to work.  I really enjoyed the cycle.  I loved the way my bike swiftly rolled along, the sunlight, the sky, the sheep in the fields, the .....

Whilst today was ANOTHER one of those days that I could not believe my current working practices result in me NOT CYCLING TO WORK :demon:

Thats right you barstards, keep rubbing it in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 March, 2012, 02:18:52 pm
*sharpens pencil*

Dear The Chief Constable...

;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 22 March, 2012, 02:21:20 pm
 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Speshact on 22 March, 2012, 09:38:06 pm
Quote from: Speshact on 15 March, 2012, 11:22:40 pm
Saw Prince Charles and Camilla again, this time on St George's Road in Southwark.

Princess Anne today in the Mall
Title: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 22 March, 2012, 09:45:54 pm
An excellent day today. Finally got brave enough to go out in shorts.
A superb ride home, only marred by a magic wind that kept turning to be a headwind whichever direction I went.
And a couple of miles from home, something went 'Sproing' and the bike started acting funny. Only as I pulled into my street did I work out it was a broken spoke.
Thankfully I have spares, and its all fixed now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 22 March, 2012, 10:03:26 pm
it's warmer and lighter and so it's time for female cycling shorts/bottoms fails, tonight see through tights with 'Bridget Jones's' white knickers  :hand:  :hand: :facepalm: :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dinamo on 23 March, 2012, 07:21:28 am
Very pleasant ride in this morning, looks like its going to be a lovely day  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 23 March, 2012, 07:31:48 am
Just to join in the general 'good commutes' vibe (sorry Fuzzy): today's ride was a frabjous joyous one.  Still a bit chilly at 6:30 but no wind, and with the promise of warmth later.  I decided to forego a longer one for a blast and ended up with a) my feet not touching the ground, and b) a pb, I think. 
Title: On the commute today
Post by: mike on 23 March, 2012, 08:23:18 am
Same here, glorious ride in thru sunshine and misty fields. Lots of baby lambs too, a frolicking in the fields.

Just wish I'd remembered:
- shower gel
- office key.

Am sitting outside with coffee and bacon roll waiting for someone else to turn up. Nice day for it tho!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 23 March, 2012, 10:32:19 am
Foggy start, but glorious sunshine by Clapham Common had me peeling off layers to stay cool.
Cedar's Road had 26 cyclists waiting at the Clapham North side lights, many of them small children going to school.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 23 March, 2012, 11:06:15 am
My last ever commute to New Street today.  :(
Looking forward to my new commute to Five Ways from Monday.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 23 March, 2012, 11:37:01 am
Remember to disengage auto-pilot on Monday morning ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 23 March, 2012, 12:11:37 pm
One problem could be, I now will not have to make a slight detour if I fancy a pint on the way home.  My route will actually take me right past a certain establishment.  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 23 March, 2012, 12:59:05 pm
Clouds have silver linings ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dibdib on 23 March, 2012, 01:10:29 pm
Lovely ride in this morning. So nice, in fact, that I've been playing with mapmyrun.com andif it's still sunny at 4pm I think my 3.5mi ride home might become a 12.5mi ride home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 23 March, 2012, 01:19:06 pm
Last night.  Slogging out of Cirencester into a 15+ mph head wind.  A chap about my age rides alongside (on a Kinetic One soot bike) says a cheery hello and goodbye and then promptly disappears into the head wind as if he's riding a time trial.  Sheesh.  It's not that he left me for dust that hurts,  I know I'm slow,  it's the complete and utter destruction of my carefully constructed delusion that I'm reasonably fit (yes, yes "for my age"); that's what hurts. 

*Rummages in desk drawer for consolatory piece of chocolate*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 23 March, 2012, 03:25:08 pm
20 minute virtual commute using the exersize bike in the hotel gym this morning, I should have realised how hot it is in Saudi.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 23 March, 2012, 03:31:22 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 23 March, 2012, 01:19:06 pm
Last night.  Slogging out of Cirencester into a 15+ mph head wind up a cobbled 2-mile 12% nasty twisty hill.  A chap about my age rides alongside (on a Kinetic One soot bike) says a cheery hello and goodbye and then promptly disappears into the head wind as if he's riding a time trial.  Sheesh.  It's not that he left me for dust that hurts,  I know I'm slow,  it's the complete and utter destruction of my carefully constructed delusion that I'm reasonably fit (yes, yes "for my age"); that's what hurts. 

*Rummages in desk drawer for consolatory piece of chocolate*


FTFY  :thumbsup:

This is my very first Fixed-That-For-You. I feel quite proud.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 23 March, 2012, 03:48:50 pm
Quote from: Andyf on 22 March, 2012, 10:03:26 pm
it's warmer and lighter and so it's time for female cycling shorts/bottoms fails, tonight see through tights with 'Bridget Jones's' white knickers  :hand:  :hand: :facepalm: :facepalm:

You need to try my route home  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 23 March, 2012, 04:23:25 pm
A lovely ride in today, just for some admin cack. Good job I did, as they are auditing the cycle parking, and I go back to work after the reply-by date.

Yesterday was better. I hopped a train to Horsham to avoid the crap road, and then made my way gently to Arundel by way of Billinshurst and Pulborough for a visit to the bird reserve. Glorious riding, lovely weather, and some shit traffic. At a roundabout outside Arundel I am in primary to turn right, and a car comes up my left side, indicating right..
"Where are you going?" through open window.
"**** off!" in reply.
And so on...
In hindsight, it was braindead knobheaded stupidity followed by willy waving when he realised he was being a pillock. When he did come to pass me, he did it out wide and with no horn.


Got the train back, though.
















Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dibdib on 23 March, 2012, 04:47:14 pm
Dropped into LBS on way home. Resisted temptation. I've bought enough bike stuff this week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redjeep! on 23 March, 2012, 08:32:19 pm
Ran over something in the cycle lane/ hard shoulder. Blew a hole you could poke a finger through in the sidewall of the tyre and punctured my spare tube when I replaced it. Also shattered my rear mudguard.

Ended up getting a lift into work from the boys in blue who took the bike in the boot of the squad car. Luckily the driver was a keen cyclist. :) 

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 March, 2012, 11:39:57 am
First commute in shorts this morning, though it was a bit nippy in places.

It was a great ride.  Butterfly and her new toy, and me on the fixed. 

We were passed by a chap with a GoPro helmet cam.  I thought it was Gaz on his Univega.  He gave me an email address so I could contact him for footage.  But, if it was Gaz, his username isn't from his first name. ???

Anyway, should be something of the new toy in action soon. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 26 March, 2012, 11:42:24 am
Gaz runs Contours, not Gopros.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 March, 2012, 11:44:25 am
OK.  Hence his apparent confusion when I hailed him.  I've met Gaz before (a while ago), and this chap was on the right sort of bike, and was the right sort of chap, but obviously someone completely different.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dibdib on 26 March, 2012, 12:38:11 pm
Unexpected cycle commute this morning. I had intended to take the car and do a big supermarket shop on the way back, but was stopped in my tracks by a flat battery.

Back in the house, quick wardrobe change, office clothes in panniers and hop on the bike. Thankfully I have a fairly flexible employer  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 26 March, 2012, 12:40:30 pm
Quote from: Dibdib on 26 March, 2012, 12:38:11 pm
Back in the house, quick wardrobe change, office clothes in panniers and hop on the bike. Thankfully I have a fairly flexible employer  :)

You work for Access?

(One for the older readers. Coat already got.)

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 26 March, 2012, 01:29:18 pm
Shorts. No jacket. Short sleeves. Fingerless mitts.
A little cool on the fingers and, bizarrely, on the back of my upper arms just above the elbow.
But the right decision.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 26 March, 2012, 02:43:17 pm
Quote from: SteveC on 26 March, 2012, 01:29:18 pm
Shorts. No jacket. Short sleeves. Fingerless mitts.
A little cool on the fingers and, bizarrely, on the back of my upper arms just above the elbow.
But the right decision.
Not hereabouts it wouldn't have been.  Surprising amount of frost on the fields.  Oh and back to having to use lights. *grumble*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 26 March, 2012, 04:11:00 pm
yeah - it was 0C in york this morning. <grumble> forecast was for 5C. I had to have a quick wardrobe change, and it's going to be warm going home - 17C
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 March, 2012, 04:17:51 pm
I really need it to be warm from now on.  I've worn out three pairs of longs this year (all of them).  I've had them for three, two and one year, but they all went together :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 26 March, 2012, 04:51:48 pm
It typically takes me 9.5-10 minutes to do the short ride to the station in the morning. On a good day, I can do it in under 9 minutes. When I left the house this morning, I felt like it was going to be a good day.

It actually took nearly 11 minutes because I WAS HELD UP BY BLOODY TRAFFIC! At the top of the descent into town, there's always some numpty desperate to get past me, even though it's a 30 limit and I'm fast enough that they have nothing to gain by passing. I held off the numpty behind me this morning by means of assertive road positioning, but then there was a lorry ahead that I soon caught up with. It kept having to wait behind parked cars for gaps in the traffic and I and couldn't get past. Bah!

Lucky I wasn't cutting it too fine for the train like I usually do.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 26 March, 2012, 04:59:45 pm
Quote from: clarion on 26 March, 2012, 04:17:51 pm
I really need it to be warm from now on.  I've worn out three pairs of longs this year

IRTA  "three pairs of lungs"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 March, 2012, 05:00:46 pm
I have one pair of lungs.  They were worn out forty years ago.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 26 March, 2012, 06:13:46 pm
Fucking fuckers fucking about. Fuckwits.


O, and it was warm and dusty. I was wishing I was on a nice bike ride, instead of desperately trying to remember number plates, and trying to keep out of the gutter without losing my life and/or limbs.
Title: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 26 March, 2012, 06:40:24 pm
First ride out in the summer gear today. 3/4 tights s/s jersey, fingerless gloves and armwarmers.
Armwarmers were a good decision, fingerless gloves less so. Chilly but thinking back to a couple of months ago it wasnt unreasonable.
A damn good setup for the ride home though. Armwarmers in a pocket, and everything was just comfy.

Plenty more cyclists out today. Some fast ones on bikes that dont look it.
Had some commuter racing fun on the last big hill before home. A fellow that has dropped me there before. He kept on my tail today, but couldnt drop me this time.

Summer is going to be such fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 26 March, 2012, 07:04:13 pm
Sun was awfully bright at 5pm, really blinding, I eased off a few times cycling west cos I just couldn't see.

On a 30 road where you'd be daft to do 30 an oncoming car veered over to my side of the road  for fifty yards, way ahead of me. I wondered what he was doing and realised he was avoiding where the road dips at the bottom of Telegraph Lane, it tests your suspension when you hit the dip. Didn't want to slow down nor nuffink, just drove on the wrong side of the road so he could maintain speed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 26 March, 2012, 08:09:36 pm
'Twas a virtual commute as I was working from home and couldn't possibly stay indoors all day.  The visitation when it happened was actually near a bike shop, so I repaired myself there. On examination, the casing of the Ribmo was so badly cut up in too many places, I changed it for a new Schwalbe Durano. Not sure how well it will last but there we go.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dibdib on 26 March, 2012, 08:15:13 pm
Definitely think I'm getting faster.

I'm definitely still slow, just not... quite so slow!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 March, 2012, 10:19:18 pm
Quote from: fboab on 26 March, 2012, 06:13:46 pm
Fucking fuckers fucking about. Fuckwits.


O, and it was warm and dusty. I was wishing I was on a nice bike ride, instead of desperately trying to remember number plates, and trying to keep out of the gutter without losing my life and/or limbs.

A sharpie can be useful, I find (so long as you don't work in short sleeves :-[ ).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 March, 2012, 10:22:43 pm
My legs felt good as I left work, so I let Serendipity guide my wheels again.  That Serendipity is a naughty one, as I found my wheels going up Knights Hill towards Croydon.  I did get a nice view from the top, mind, before what could have been a glorious descent into the non-city were it not for the motor vehicles littering the road. :-\

Went to the shop on the way home and found out just how much I can get into a Super C saddlebag and pannier. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 26 March, 2012, 11:28:55 pm
Quote from: Parsley on 26 March, 2012, 06:40:24 pm
Plenty more cyclists out today. Some fast ones on bikes that dont look it.

I was caught at the lights on Walworth Road by a chap on a steel touring bike of some description (I forget exactly what), laden with a stuffed saddlebag and panniers. He was going along at a fair old lick considering how much weight he must have been pulling.

Him I liked. Especially as he showed an interest in my bike, particularly my Solidlights & SON. Some of the other cyclists I encountered this evening seemed to be after causing problems for themselves and everyone else. Them I didn't like so much.

Oh well, at least they weren't in cars. It really is good to see that many people out on bikes, even if some of them could do with a few cycling proficiency lessons.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 March, 2012, 08:27:37 am
I should mention that, as I was riding up the steepest bit of Knights Hill last night, being pleased with keepingy speed above 10kph, a chap on a Scott road bike shot past at twice my speed.  Chapeau, sir!

This morning was another gentle 15km over Streatham with Butterfly, then another 10km of zoom. :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 27 March, 2012, 09:04:41 am
Frosty. Mitts. Ouch.  >:(

Cracking morning though - all sparkly in the sunshine. Small birds singing their lungs out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: geraldc on 27 March, 2012, 09:13:21 am
On the way to work, I saw a man handing over a red briefcase to another guy, who loaded it into the back of the car. The red briefcase was lovely, and then I suddenly realised it was it was a minister's briefcase, and the guy handing the briefcase over was Michael Gove. As I trundled past I saw his wife waving bye bye from a surprisingly modest house.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 March, 2012, 09:17:04 am
Aye, it was chilly this morning.  I was comparing my longs to check which were least worn out to put over the shorts I'd initially decided would be fine (before going into the garden to hang the laundry up with Butterfly, when reality came to call).

gerald, you had a chance to take out Michael Gove, and you fluffed it! :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 27 March, 2012, 09:19:04 am
Quote from: clarion on 27 March, 2012, 09:17:04 am
gerald, you had a chance to take out Michael Gove, and you fluffed it! :o
+1!

What I actually came on this thread to say was: (sit down people) for the first time I can remember, an articulated lorry sat behind me for more than a mile as it wasn't safe to pass.
The luxury of not having a stream of tossers hurtle past far too close was a delight. I gave him a big :thumbsup: and a cheery wave, and if the sun hadn't been in my eyes so I couldn't read his name, I'd be contacting his boss to send him cake.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 27 March, 2012, 09:42:34 am
Quote from: fboab on 27 March, 2012, 09:19:04 am
What I actually came on this thread to say was: (sit down people) for the first time I can remember, an articulated lorry sat behind me for more than a mile as it wasn't safe to pass.
The luxury of not having a stream of tossers hurtle past far too close was a delight. I gave him a big :thumbsup: and a cheery wave, and if the sun hadn't been in my eyes so I couldn't read his name, I'd be contacting his boss to send him cake.

All you need to do now is train this driver to do that every day. For the whole of your commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 27 March, 2012, 09:44:03 am
Quote from: fboab on 27 March, 2012, 09:19:04 am
What I actually came on this thread to say was: (sit down people) for the first time I can remember, an articulated lorry sat behind me for more than a mile as it wasn't safe to pass.

He was just oggling your arse ;).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 March, 2012, 10:14:31 am
Well, obv. 

But it proves that not every driver on the road is a dickhead.  It's nice to be reminded of that once in a while.  My preference would be to be reminded of that with every single vehicle I encounter, but I just have to hope.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 27 March, 2012, 10:51:28 am
I had a lovely cycle from chez Feline to the station along the strawberry path. Apart from the fact that I was a bit late for an easy ride so I hammered it all the way. When I got to the station the 09:40 train was on the platform - the time being 09:50. I thought for a moment I was about to miss my train, not realising which train was there, but mine was the 09:56. I had quite a bit more time to spare than I thought, which means my heart rate was normal by the time the train arrived. Although my average speed was only 25.1kph this was a non-tarmac surfaced Sustrans path for most of the way with narrow barriers to get through and maintaining a steady 27-28kph on those sorts of surfaces is hard work. At least my panniers were mostly empty.

At Temple Meads while I was getting a coffee a guy was asking about the bike, I had a nice chat with him about cycling. He used to be a New York courier, he said and was interested in my Pompino, I’m not entirely sure what he made of it having done the Bryan Chapman. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 27 March, 2012, 11:47:40 am
Quote from: simonp on 27 March, 2012, 10:51:28 am
. Although my average speed was only 25.1kph 

If my average was that high I'd think it was brill.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 27 March, 2012, 12:03:40 pm
Comedy "what is she doing?" moment on the way in this morning.
I was waiting in a side road, hoping to go straight on. The road I was crossing has shops a bit further up and cars parked both sides, so the traffic comes through in fits and starts and you can find yourself waiting for a while to get a gap safe enough to cross.

A 4x4 came along this road and then turned right into the road where I was waiting. It then stopped and attempted to do a U-turn at the entrance to the road. Since I'm sat in the middle of the left hand lane I was suddenly "in the way" and the driver started hooting at me.

I have nowhere to go, since there's still traffic coming past, so I just ignored her, until the next driver who wanted to turn right kindly blocked the whole road for me (because he was unable to turn into the road) and I was able to cross.

I then hear her shouting "fucking cyclists!".

All this took about 2 minutes, she still took two more goes to get her car into position to make the left turn and go back where she'd come from.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 27 March, 2012, 12:15:03 pm
Quote from: alexb on 27 March, 2012, 12:03:40 pm

I then hear her shouting "fucking cyclists!".



maybe she was giving you her most direct chat-up line ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 27 March, 2012, 12:17:05 pm
Quote from: jogler on 27 March, 2012, 11:47:40 am
Quote from: simonp on 27 March, 2012, 10:51:28 am
. Although my average speed was only 25.1kph 

If my average was that high I'd think it was brill.

I know what simonp means though - those little stop-starty annoyances seem to have a disproportionate negative effect on your average speed as recorded by your computer, which is frustrating when you know your actual rolling average is more like a couple of mph higher.

I think it's because bike computers (the ones I use, anyway) take a couple of seconds to stop the clock each time you stop at the lights or a junction or whatever.

Note to self: it doesn't matter, it's not a race.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dibdib on 27 March, 2012, 12:25:58 pm
Had to take evasive action this morning to avoid an erratic BSO-mounted chav clutching a half-empty bottle of Corona as he passed the other way to me on an otherwise deserted stretch of cycle path.

Not even 8am at the time. Stay classy, Swindon  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 27 March, 2012, 01:21:08 pm
Quote from: fboab on 27 March, 2012, 09:19:04 am
What I actually came on this thread to say was: (sit down people) for the first time I can remember, an articulated lorry sat behind me for more than a mile as it wasn't safe to pass.
The luxury of not having a stream of tossers hurtle past far too close was a delight. I gave him a big :thumbsup: and a cheery wave, and if the sun hadn't been in my eyes so I couldn't read his name, I'd be contacting his boss to send him cake.

Hurrah for decent drivers!

Quote from: jogler on 27 March, 2012, 11:47:40 am
Quote from: simonp on 27 March, 2012, 10:51:28 am
. Although my average speed was only 25.1kph 

If my average was that high I'd think it was brill.
Me too! I think I may have once been that fast, on the fast route, riding the fast bike ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 27 March, 2012, 01:29:56 pm
Quote from: Butterfly on 27 March, 2012, 01:21:08 pm
Quote from: jogler on 27 March, 2012, 11:47:40 am
Quote from: simonp on 27 March, 2012, 10:51:28 am
Although my average speed was only 25.1kph 
If my average was that high I'd think it was brill.
Me too! I think I may have once been that fast, on the fast route, riding the fast bike ::-)

Me three.  Well, it depends.  Not counting gravitational assistance, I've had moments of ludicrous speed for short periods, such as drafting the no 25 bus most of the way between Ilford and Romford, or that time I found myself on a stretch of dead straight road being used for a time trial with the holy trinity of recumbent, tailwind and flatlands.  But generally, I'm doing well to maintain 20kph around here.  It's all lumps and traffic lights.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 March, 2012, 01:34:00 pm
25.1kph is my fastest commute of the year.  OK, so I think I have a lot more traffic lights than Simon p, but I'd still be happy with that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 27 March, 2012, 01:49:17 pm
I’ve set you all off with that one. :)

The route in question has barriers that require negotiation, is an unsurfaced off-road path for about 2/3 the distance, and has lots of loose dogs. My rolling average in central London between Paddington and Kings Cross was lower - many traffic lights. 23.3kph. My free moving speed was faster there than this morning, but I had to keep stopping. Overall my fastest commute average in Cambridge is about 28kph. That requires really riding the entire thing at 30kph+ when up to speed.

+1 to what citoyen said - my rolling average on the Bryan Chapman last year was around 24kph and that did not involve riding flat-out between small hold-ups. :)


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 27 March, 2012, 02:09:27 pm
Quote from: jogler on 27 March, 2012, 11:47:40 am
Quote from: simonp on 27 March, 2012, 10:51:28 am
Although my average speed was only 25.1kph 
If my average was that high I'd think it was brill.
That used to be standard on my previous commute. More in the summer, on gears.
20-22ish, out, 22-24ish back. I blame riding the fixed the excess lard the route lack of appeal for the destination the drivers having to do it every day everything and anything I can think of, really.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 27 March, 2012, 02:39:07 pm
Quote from: simonp on 27 March, 2012, 01:49:17 pm
I’ve set you all off with that one. :)

It's a Tom Simpson comment innit: "Something To Aim At"
Though in his case he was referring to a Mercedes.The purchase of same:not a collision objective.


Quote from: fboab on 27 March, 2012, 02:09:27 pm
. I blame riding the fixed the excess lard the route lack of appeal for the destination the drivers having to do it every day everything and anything I can think of, really.

Nice words :thumbsup: Can I use them for my own reference on occassion please?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 27 March, 2012, 04:11:59 pm
Throughout March, I've been trying to maintain an average speed above 25km/h. Since most of my commuting is through south London, with lots of traffic lights and indeed traffic, this can be quite tricky. And yesterday I could barely manage 24km/h since my legs were tired after Sunday's long ride.

According to mycyclinglogs, I've done 692km of commuting so far this month at an average of 24.66km/h. I'm really going to have to put the hammer down for the next three days...  ;D

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 March, 2012, 04:19:08 pm
I aim for a 20kph average overall, which I don't achieve, but my commuting average should be well above.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 27 March, 2012, 06:08:16 pm
I've just posted this


I've made reference in the "On The Commute" thread to an average of 25kph being ambitious for me.I see from the Rabbit chart above that with my gearing I need to do 80rpm to achieve 25.5kph.
I don't have a computer on the Langster but I can guestimate,via counting,my cadence & I know I can do 60rpm very easily on the flat so I reckon 80rpm is possible.
I'm going to try it.

on the Velo Fix board : Riding Long Distance on Fixed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 27 March, 2012, 06:23:39 pm
Bloody freezing this morning on the ride in ( actual frost on the grass in the fields ), and bloody hot on the way home, even though I ditched layers and left them at work.   The climb up the hill was a full-on sweat-fest, and so not a particularly quick day!

For the porpoises of time calculations that are on-going, my ride home is 40 miles, in 2.5 hours on a good day.
That's 16mph, or (goes to look it up ) 25.7Km/h.

My ride in is usually about 3 hours, for a 21.5kph average ( Different climb profile.   Oddly enough, the way home is steeper but quicker, beause it gets all the climbing over and done in under 20 mins, but on the way in, it's staged and less steep, but you're climbing for around an hour. )
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: eck on 27 March, 2012, 06:54:44 pm
Feanor, you looked very relaxed at the start of the climb of the Cairn this afternoon. That first ramp always gives me the terrors.  I also saw you this morning, just as you were heading out of Fettercairn.

I passed a guy on a mountain bike twiddling south up the Cairn this afternoon, I imagine you would have reached the summit before he did.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 27 March, 2012, 07:08:02 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 27 March, 2012, 04:11:59 pm
Throughout March, I've been trying to maintain an average speed above 25km/h. Since most of my commuting is through south London, with lots of traffic lights and indeed traffic, this can be quite tricky. And yesterday I could barely manage 24km/h since my legs were tired after Sunday's long ride.

According to mycyclinglogs, I've done 692km of commuting so far this month at an average of 24.66km/h. I'm really going to have to put the hammer down for the next three days...  ;D

d.

If we are riding in traffic, especially in a busy city, where it's much harder to predict the actions of other road users,  I think our primary objective should be to ride safely and considerately. I have a feeling that if I had a goal of maintaining a fairly high average speed, my riding would be neither safe or considerate. 
     
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 27 March, 2012, 07:15:35 pm
I now realise I was reading 25 kph as 35kph.  Whoops. That did seem a bit of a crazy average to be riding in London traffic.  Now I have put my glasses on, I'll stop being quite so disapproving.
   Although I still think safe and considerate rather than fast should be the priority.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ed_o_brain on 27 March, 2012, 07:20:12 pm
I absolutely do not recommend racing a lithe looking road cyclist home when:
a) You've only cycled a handful of miles in recent history
b) You are riding a clunker of a bike

I still won but at what price? ... I can barely walk!!

Meanwhile, the sky prepares for a beautiful sunset and Mr. Lithe Road Cyclists rides off steadily into it whilst I slowly die by the roadside!! :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: plum on 27 March, 2012, 07:22:39 pm
Quote from: jane on 27 March, 2012, 07:15:35 pm
If we are riding in traffic, especially in a busy city, where it's much harder to predict the actions of other road users,  I think our primary objective should be to ride safely and considerately. I have a feeling that if I had a goal of maintaining a fairly high average speed, my riding would be neither safe or considerate. 
     
The hell with that, I want to have fun on my bike not sit in traffic jams.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 27 March, 2012, 07:23:54 pm
My best average ever to work was 32.4kph. Rolling average of course, not real. I'm not a particularly fast rider, so I was quite pleased with that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Hot Flatus on 27 March, 2012, 07:26:20 pm
Saw Davebax, and had a bumble bee fly inside my jersey and drag its sting across my neck, but not a proper sting
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 27 March, 2012, 07:39:25 pm
I had another dickhead drive me off the road. I took down his/her registration and phoned 101. I explained to the lady the details of the incident and described the car.
I explained the road was bloody awful, this happens all the time, but for once I had taken details and would like something done about it.
She then asked me if I had a lollypop.
'Sometimes I have a golfing umbrella on the back, just to make me look bigger'.
'Do you wear a helmet?'

You what? What possible relevance is that?
'Come off it, they're doing 60, I'm doing, what, 15 miles an hour. They hit me and I'm dead, a helmet's not going to make a blind bit of difference.'
'I'm just concerned for your safety, that you're doing everything possible to keep safe. 17, 18 year olds don't know about about driving safely round bikes'
'Then they shouldn't be driving. They should learn that when they're learning to drive'
'There are old people who don't always drive safely'
'Then they shouldn't be driving. I'm riding safely, I'm using the road properly, I shouldn't have to amend my behaviour one jot. They shouldn't be driving if they can't do it safely.'
'But you said yourself it's a busy road'
'Yes, it's full of drivers driving dangerously and breaking the law!'

FFS.
Don't worry about it. I'll wear a helmet, then you can be happy I'm safe, even though the fuckers are still driving like cunts.

One of the TheBosses (BMW drivers, to a man) said they'd had a speed camera in the village on my horrid road. I remember seeing it, I raced and hit 18mph on it. The AVERAGE speed they clocked was 39. In a 30mph zone with double white lines. I'm thinking of contacting my knobber MP, David Ruffley, as in his last missive he got snotty about my latest email and asked if I had any specific issues. I might just start getting FUCKING ARSEY.

Or I might just quit the poxy job.

On a slightly more positive note, last Tuesday I was overtaken by a cyclist. We were neck & neck for a bit but I couldn't hold him. I joked he was cheating as he had gears.
Today he did the same on his fixed. Hehehe. Took him much longer to catch and drop me though. He was laughing as he finally passed and gave me a big thumbs up. Almost made me forget the bastards for a bit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 27 March, 2012, 07:50:58 pm
Quote from: jane on 27 March, 2012, 07:15:35 pm
I now realise I was reading 25 kph as 35kph.  Whoops. That did seem a bit of a crazy average to riding in London traffic.  Now I have put my glasses on, I'll stop being quite so disapproving.
   Although I still think safe and considerate rather than fast should be the priority.

Why are they mutually exclusive? Riding between Kings Cross and Paddington on a Thursday evening, as I often do, I am typically riding at 25-30kph in the bus lane. Sometimes I come up behind a bus or taxi waiting at the lights. While I wait behind them, another cyclist, sometimes several, filter past the bus and sit in front of it, or alongside it, at the lights. This is less safe than sitting behind the bus, it's less considerate than doing so, and they're riding slower than I am, since I almost always overtake them once traffic is moving again.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 27 March, 2012, 08:02:03 pm
Quote from: simonp on 27 March, 2012, 07:50:58 pm
Why are they mutually exclusive? Riding between Kings Cross and Paddington on a Thursday evening, as I often do, I am typically riding at 25-30kph in the bus lane. Sometimes I come up behind a bus or taxi waiting at the lights. While I wait behind them, another cyclist, sometimes several, filter past the bus and sit in front of it, or alongside it, at the lights. This is less safe than sitting behind the bus, it's less considerate than doing so, and they're riding slower than I am, since I almost always overtake them once traffic is moving again.

This seems like excellent riding by Simon to me. I also wonder why the other cyclists filter when it's obviously not advantageous to do so, and is also less safe.

It's not uncommon for cyclists to be doing 30mph in the bus lane, taking the lane. I don't see the problem with this, in the right situation. Why do the cars and buses have this same speed limit?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 27 March, 2012, 08:24:09 pm
Quote from: eck on 27 March, 2012, 06:54:44 pm
Feanor, you looked very relaxed at the start of the climb of the Cairn this afternoon. That first ramp always gives me the terrors.  I also saw you this morning, just as you were heading out of Fettercairn.

I passed a guy on a mountain bike twiddling south up the Cairn this afternoon, I imagine you would have reached the summit before he did.

Aye, it's a tough start.

Just for the avoidance of doubt, I'll *not* be wearing /that/ top on the SR!  Certainly not in such esteemed company.

Yes, the MTB guy was approaching the top as I started my descent, after a brief stop on the summit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 27 March, 2012, 08:30:37 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 27 March, 2012, 08:02:03 pm
Quote from: simonp on 27 March, 2012, 07:50:58 pm
Why are they mutually exclusive? Riding between Kings Cross and Paddington on a Thursday evening, as I often do, I am typically riding at 25-30kph in the bus lane. Sometimes I come up behind a bus or taxi waiting at the lights. While I wait behind them, another cyclist, sometimes several, filter past the bus and sit in front of it, or alongside it, at the lights. This is less safe than sitting behind the bus, it's less considerate than doing so, and they're riding slower than I am, since I almost always overtake them once traffic is moving again.

This seems like excellent riding by Simon to me. I also wonder why the other cyclists filter when it's obviously not advantageous to do so, and is also less safe.

There's probably a small advantage to them. In my case, it's typically no advantage since I'm cycling between trains and the time taken is usually immaterial. However, the reverse trip this morning I had tight time and could possibly have gained a bit by filtering, but instead I missed the train and got the half hour later one (the same one scheduled on the journey planner that assumes tube transit rather than cycling) and had lunch in the new Kings Cross concourse instead. Then had to run for my train anyway because of the distance between cycle parking, food, and my train.  :facepalm:

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 March, 2012, 08:51:44 pm
I had two cyclists barge past me at E&C in a very dangerous situation.  We got to Walworth Road lights, and they went through the red lights.  I soon caught them, and kept riding, but they were off my tail in seconds.  Don't know why people do that.

Never mind, it was a grand day for a ride, and I felt like I was going really well.  I did an extra loop in Tooting so I'd be over 20km, then just rode.  I was passing loads of cyclists, and keeping up 35km on the move, which was nice. 

At Hackbridge, the Police were just closing the road, so I rode slowly, then ended up on a road with a load of diverted and confused drivers.  I think that we are much more adaptable, as we might take a different route for the hell of it, but drivers have their commute, and except for rat-runs, they have no idea of any other roads or areas they pass by.  Sad really.

Anyway, I got home feeling really good.  A beautiful day for a bike ride.  And I got two. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 27 March, 2012, 09:13:59 pm
Quote from: simonp on 27 March, 2012, 07:50:58 pm
Quote from: jane on 27 March, 2012, 07:15:35 pm
I now realise I was reading 25 kph as 35kph.  Whoops. That did seem a bit of a crazy average to riding in London traffic.  Now I have put my glasses on, I'll stop being quite so disapproving.
   Although I still think safe and considerate rather than fast should be the priority.

Why are they mutually exclusive? Riding between Kings Cross and Paddington on a Thursday evening, as I often do, I am typically riding at 25-30kph in the bus lane. Sometimes I come up behind a bus or taxi waiting at the lights. While I wait behind them, another cyclist, sometimes several, filter past the bus and sit in front of it, or alongside it, at the lights. This is less safe than sitting behind the bus, it's less considerate than doing so, and they're riding slower than I am, since I almost always overtake them once traffic is moving again.


Yup- There is a road on my way to work with a speed indicator- at my early morning commute time, I have often set it off at 20+ mph (what's that- about 35 kph).  And a lot of the big wide roads can be ridden in that way perfectly safely.  I know that.  I have been riding almost daily in London traffic for nearly 40 years now. There are also situations where maintaining a high speed, arguably, keeps you safer (I'm thinking of some of the big roundabouts where keeping up with the motor traffic flow is better than pootling round at 10mph).   I didn't say one can never ride safe and fast.  I said that if one's primary focus was to maintain a fairly high average speed, over your commute and over time, then possibly one's focus on safety and consideration might suffer.  And I'm speaking from experience here.  I know that when I was younger, and covering distances in central London in the quickest time I could, because that was really important for me then, I was not the most careful and considerate rider I could have been. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 27 March, 2012, 09:31:33 pm
Quote from: simonp on 27 March, 2012, 07:50:58 pm
Quote from: jane on 27 March, 2012, 07:15:35 pm
I now realise I was reading 25 kph as 35kph.  Whoops. That did seem a bit of a crazy average to riding in London traffic.  Now I have put my glasses on, I'll stop being quite so disapproving.
   Although I still think safe and considerate rather than fast should be the priority.

Why are they mutually exclusive?


Because keeping a high point-to-point average on a substantial trip through town is almost certain to involve inappropriate speed and rely on others' behaviour to keep you safe.

It IS possible to ride fast, but not consistently and particularly with pedestrians about. IMO, 23 -25kph is about top for practicality, no matter what your moving average
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 27 March, 2012, 09:39:46 pm
Quote from: jane on 27 March, 2012, 07:15:35 pm
I still think safe and considerate rather than fast should be the priority.

You're absolutely correct, and that is largely why my recorded average isn't higher. It's only possible to get it over 25km/h because there are a few clear, open stretches where it's safe to go at 35-45km/h. Much as I'd like to go faster all the time, I know it's best just to go with the flow, and sometimes if necessary wait behind slower vehicles (whether they be other cyclists or cars), and definitely not take chances because it just isn't worth it. I certainly don't advocate racing on busy streets.

If I want to go properly fast, I'll have to switch to doing my rural route in the morning instead - largely traffic-free with only two level crossings and one set of lights to provide potential hindrance. Only reason I don't do it more often is that I need to set off earlier. PB for the 26km is 28.5km/h. Aim is to get it over 30.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Speshact on 27 March, 2012, 10:22:19 pm
I have no idea what my average speed is but I managed to pass over one hundred horses during my commute today  :thumbsup:.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 27 March, 2012, 10:34:00 pm
Quote from: Speshact on 27 March, 2012, 10:22:19 pm
I have no idea what my average speed is but I managed to pass over one hundred horses during my commute today  :thumbsup:.

What have you been eating?  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 27 March, 2012, 11:43:16 pm
Quote from: Ham on 27 March, 2012, 09:31:33 pm
Quote from: simonp on 27 March, 2012, 07:50:58 pm
Quote from: jane on 27 March, 2012, 07:15:35 pm
I now realise I was reading 25 kph as 35kph.  Whoops. That did seem a bit of a crazy average to riding in London traffic.  Now I have put my glasses on, I'll stop being quite so disapproving.
   Although I still think safe and considerate rather than fast should be the priority.

Why are they mutually exclusive?


Because keeping a high point-to-point average on a substantial trip through town is almost certain to involve inappropriate speed and rely on others' behaviour to keep you safe.

It IS possible to ride fast, but not consistently and particularly with pedestrians about. IMO, 23 -25kph is about top for practicality, no matter what your moving average

This is "in town" where I commute:

http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?q=cambridge&hl=en&ll=52.210039,0.137007&spn=0.010506,0.02326&sll=51.28442,-2.819352&sspn=0.042678,0.09304&hnear=Cambridge,+United+Kingdom&t=m&z=16&layer=c&cbll=52.210135,0.136984&panoid=Yx6wQB7Tc_QP-N8CaXDL4Q&cbp=12,0,,0,0

so is this:

http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?q=cambridge&hl=en&ll=52.206976,0.120292&spn=0.010138,0.02326&sll=51.28442,-2.819352&sspn=0.042678,0.09304&hnear=Cambridge,+United+Kingdom&t=m&z=16&layer=c&cbll=52.20679,0.120285&panoid=5EiwBXJ4aB-hxfhkSUlTwg&cbp=12,326.41,,0,21.84

The former, I've cycled at up to about 45kph on. It's a wide dual carriageway with no side entrances and wide pavements, typically with no-one on them. If there was someone on the pavement, then the cycle lane shows exactly where *not* to cycle - but you try riding down the middle of that bus lane at 23-25kph. I've read numerous posts from cyclists on cam.transport complaining about exactly that. The latter, it's virtually impossible to cycle safely on most of the time, as it's usually full of pedestrians, and I avoid it like the plague. There isn't a safe cycling speed because people can just walk into the side of you no matter how slow you go.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 28 March, 2012, 04:16:41 am
Like Speshact, I have no idea what my average commuting speed is- I don't have a gizmo fitted to the commute bike and for me, see no point in doing so. If I can ride fast safely, and my legs are up to it, I generally do.  My commute today was a mixture of wide fast roads with big bus lanes, narrower, congested streets with lots of junctions, and crossing pedestrians, quieter backstreets, and a short bit of pleasant shared path which I chose to take because I was not bothered about average speeds and it was a lovely evening.  My speed varied widely, according to the conditions.  Having a target average speed for a commute, as a few people seem to do, appears to me a bit of a waste of time, as it is (or should be) so dependent on factors outside one's control and these factors can vary from day to day. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 28 March, 2012, 08:18:07 am
Quote from: jane on 28 March, 2012, 04:16:41 am
Having a target average speed for a commute, as a few people seem to do, appears to me a bit of a waste of time

Well, the world would be a boring place if we all thought the same about everything.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 28 March, 2012, 10:21:15 am
Quote from: citoyen on 28 March, 2012, 08:18:07 am
Quote from: jane on 28 March, 2012, 04:16:41 am
Having a target average speed for a commute, as a few people seem to do, appears to me a bit of a waste of time

Well, the world would be a boring place if we all thought the same about everything.

d.

That's true- and as long as one's drive to achieve a target average doesn't take precedence over safety and traffic awareness, I have no problem with anyone who enjoys riding as fast as they can.  But as I said before, I know that when speed was an important issue for me, I took risks I know now, and knew then, if I'm honest, that compromised both my safety and that of others.  So, I have to admit, I do feel a little concerned when I see on this thread, frequent posts about average speeds, which seem to indicate that people are riding in a similar way.  That's all. 
    I don't often post on this thread, but my posts on this topic were also prompted by my own commute which yesterday, unusually,  was bang in the middle of peak hour central London traffic.  I was up on the Strand collecting signatures for the LCC Go Dutch petition and as I rode home about 6pm, was amazed at some of the risks I saw people taking and just how many of them were taking such risks.  Before I left, I was standing by the Boris bike station, as it seemed a good place to catch possible signatures.  I witnessed many cyclists heading down Wellington St at speeds far too high for the conditions (there is a shared pavement just before the cycle crossing) either shouting or ringing bells to clear pedestrians, obviously desperate to catch the light if it was green.  As I myself rode home, heading off the Waterloo roundabout, a cyclist swung out of Stamford St, very fast and therefore wide, forcing me to swerve out of his way.  Then, as I slowed to stop at the lights on Waterloo Rd, several cyclists went straight through them, causing several pedestrians to jump backwards.   Just myself and three other cyclist waited.  Further down, past the Cut, as I indicated to turn left down Webber St, a cyclist overtook me then turned left himself, down the same road, forcing me to brake quite sharply. 
     The final straw was on the Surrey canal path- I only use this if I want to pootle- it's full of walkers,  small children, people with dogs, although fairly wide so conflict should not be an issue.  There is an on road alternative which I use if I am in a hurry.  Apparently, quite a few other cyclists don't.  One guy in particular, overtook me, very fast, squeezing between me and a couple walking the other way.  He was dangerously close to me, and unusually for me, I shouted out this fact as he sped on.  He slowed and looked back at me, grinning, then took off again, quite fast seemingly in pursuit of another cyclist (a young woman on a pootle bike)  I shouted sarcastically, "That's right, can't possibly let any women stay in front of you."  (I hasten to add, I have no proof that this was his motivation, I was just riled, at this point,)
  I wasn't going to post this commute rant, because I love riding my bike and prefer to accentuate the positive experiences which are many and varied.  I also don't like having a go at other cyclists as there are plenty of others out there only too ready to do just that. But yesterday I was especially saddened that what spoilt a ride I usually enjoy was the behaviour, not of motor traffic, but of other cyclists.  Very sad. 
Of course, I am not implying that anyone here who enjoys keeping their commute as fast as they can indulges in any of the behaviours I have described above.  It's just that reading their posts on a day when my enjoyment of cycling was marred by other cyclists riding too fast for the conditions made me ponder these issues more than I usually do.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 28 March, 2012, 10:27:39 am
A catalogue of thoughtlessness, Jane, sorry your ride was spoilt.  I think that there is a tendency on fora like this to think that all cyclists are wonderful people, when plainly they're not.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 28 March, 2012, 10:39:58 am
No, we are just like everyone else, a fine, and sometimes not so fine, mixture of humanity.  Anyway, off to ride up to Malet St now for an NUT rally.  Lovely day and as it's not rush hour, I'll probably have a great ride.  And meet lots of lovely cyclists on the way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 28 March, 2012, 10:41:28 am
Had a pretty scary incident on the way home last night and an even more frustrating time trying to get it reported to the Police.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 28 March, 2012, 10:42:12 am
I rode my bike!  Last nights ride home was the first commute by bike since 15th March. It was incident free and Ab Fab :thumbsup:

This morning however I paid for the lack of riding and the unbreakfasted launch. My time of arrival at the road sign after the climb up Quarry Wood Road, which I use as my intermediate timing point was a good minute and a half slower than usual (11:30 as opposed to 9:30-10:00). This wasn't helped by having to leave the house an hour later to ensure my absolutely fecking useless at getting out of bed and off top work smartly No.1 Son, got out of bed and off to work smartly (SWMBO, his usual morning PITA needed to be at work early so I drew PITA duty). That hour made progress to the hill slower due to the increase in traffic to contend with. The climb itself was painfull with the lack of fuel causing a near bonk and the lack of riding causing my lungs to complain most vociferously.

Not withstanding the noisy lungs and the near bonk, I'll be buggered if riding aint da bomb ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 28 March, 2012, 11:16:26 am
Quote from: jane on 28 March, 2012, 10:21:15 am
I have to admit, I do feel a little concerned when I see on this thread, frequent posts about average speeds, which seem to indicate that people are riding in a similar way.  That's all.

Fair enough, but having a target doesn't automatically imply riding recklessly. There are parts of my commute where I have to go slow due to traffic, pedestrians, lights etc. But there are other parts of my commute (eg going up Fountain Drive) where the only limiting factor is my ability. If I want to improve my time, I concentrate on trying to go faster on those sections.

Also, saying someone else's behaviour is "a waste of time" isn't the same as expressing reasonable concerns about safety. I'm not offended but it is an unnecessarily personal criticism.

Quote
I wasn't going to post this commute rant, because I love riding my bike and prefer to accentuate the positive experiences which are many and varied.  I also don't like having a go at other cyclists as there are plenty of others out there only too ready to do just that. But yesterday I was especially saddened that what spoilt a ride I usually enjoy was the behaviour, not of motor traffic, but of other cyclists. Very sad.

Yes, very sad, and I can quite understand why you would be upset by that experience. I see lots of similar behaviour every day myself and find it equally disappointing. Hence I was very keen to stress in my previous post that I don't ride like that myself.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 28 March, 2012, 11:18:52 am
Quote from: Peter on 28 March, 2012, 10:27:39 am
A catalogue of thoughtlessness, Jane, sorry your ride was spoilt.  I think that there is a tendency on fora like this to think that all cyclists are wonderful people, when plainly they're not.

A proportion of all road users are idiots. Some of those idiots are in cars, some are on bikes. They're just idiots, not representatives of a class of people or social group.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 28 March, 2012, 11:34:27 am
Quote from: Chris S on 27 March, 2012, 10:34:00 pm
Quote from: Speshact on 27 March, 2012, 10:22:19 pm
I have no idea what my average speed is but I managed to pass over one hundred horses during my commute today  :thumbsup:.

What have you been eating?  :o

Over one hundred horses, obviously. ;)

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: metformin on 28 March, 2012, 11:38:10 am
There are numpties using all modes of transport. As a cyclist you just need to be aware of the ones that could cause us injury. As cyclists we are down the pecking order only just above pedestrians so we have to evade to stay safe rather than rely on protection physical protection.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 28 March, 2012, 11:40:46 am
A guy in Cambridge was done for furious riding for riding at 30mph down St Andrews Street or Sidney Street (pedestrianised, though not car free central Cambridge) - apparently his training route. That was more than deserved.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 28 March, 2012, 11:49:12 am
I know where Jane is coming from; you see this kind of behaviour all the time and it is annoying. I was watching the cyclists on Clapham Road this morning while walking the dog, and two blokes were clearly racing each other in the bus lane and pulling some stupid moves to gain an advantage. I’ve been shouted at for filtering too slowly which really made me want to throttle the shouter, because my safety is way more important than their average speed. I have bad luck with cycling computers so there currently isn’t one on my commuting bike, which really doesn’t lend itself to racing anyway! And there are so very many traffic lights/give ways etc, that my speed rarely gets that high even if I was a speedy type.

Having said that, I’ve ridden with at least one of the people who posts their average speed regularly and feel confident that he doesn’t place speed over safety; I daresay he’s not alone.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 28 March, 2012, 11:51:51 am
I have a target average speed.It's  less than the max I can achieve.

Managed my silly extended commute. Was stupid enough to not check my route and ended going upgreenhow hill
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 28 March, 2012, 11:55:32 am
Saw an exploded badger on the way in. I see a lot of road kill, but this one was spread far and wide. Would have made a big mess of the car, I suspect.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 28 March, 2012, 11:57:01 am
I do record my average speed, though I don't look at it while riding (well, hardly ever; last night was an exception).

I do look at my speed, as much for timing gear changes as anything else.  30kph is where I change up to top gear.

I like to be consistent and predictable when I ride.  So I try to ride at a particular speed, responding to conditions, and not varying too much by letting my focus wander etc.  I also feel safer above 25kph than below.  The relative speed of other vehicles becomes significant when I get below that sort of point, and I get blocked from pulling out and suchlike.

So I'm not a speed queen by any stretch.  I don't race anyone else, but I do like to stretch myself (a bit).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 28 March, 2012, 12:17:02 pm
I don't pay much attention at all to my average speed, at least not until after the ride. Then I'll look, and partly use it to judge how tired I was and whether I've had enough rest or am getting ill. Hopefully some of the others on here who've ridden with me will attest that I'm not sacrificing safety for high average speeds.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 28 March, 2012, 12:27:15 pm
It's perfectly possible to look at your bike computer while riding and remain safe.

Just like it's possible to look at your car's speedo while driving to ensure you don't "accidentally" go over the speed limit. The old "Oh, sorry, officer, I was too busy concentrating on driving safely to look at the speedo" is just one of those bullshit excuses the "safespeed" nutters use.

So, there's no reason why it should be any less safe to look at your bike computer while cycling. In fact, given that you're not in control of a tonne of metal and generally going at much slower speeds anyway, it's probably much safer. Just as long as you don't have your eyes glued to it all the time.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 28 March, 2012, 03:52:38 pm
In all the discussion about speed, I forgot to mention the two more interesting things that happened on my commute yesterday.

The first was very nearly a comical clipless moment when I found myself unable to disengage my left foot at the traffic lights. Luckily, I managed to get my right foot out before I toppled. I'd been having problems clipping in with the left foot all the way through Sunday's audax. It turns out one of the two cleat bolts had fallen out, so when I twisted my foot to unclip, the shoe was just rotating about the cleat. I had to do a triathlon-style dismount, removing my foot from the shoe, rather than shoe from bike. Stupid SPD-R pedals are going in the bin. I've never liked them and now I understand why Shimano stopped making them.

The somewhat less amusing second incident was as I was heading up Fountain Drive. I heard the squeal of tyres and revving of an engine behind me, then moments later a silver saloon came past me at silly speed with a silver van in hot pursuit. Both went airborne off the speed bumps and the van driver very nearly lost control on the bend. I realised they were probably stolen and would have taken the van's number if the rear numberplate hadn't been removed. Both vehicles nearly caused crashes at the roundabout at the top of the road.  ::-)

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 28 March, 2012, 06:13:35 pm
well my commute today got me all of three miles up the road, at which point my rear wheel started wobbling around, then jammed, leading to the chain being thrown and wrapping itself tightly around the rear sprocket.  Closer examination revealed two broken links in the chain, four broken spokes and a distinctly un-true wheel. 

It looks as though 5 years of all-weather commuting have taken their toll on the ends of the spokes and once one had detached itself, the others were happy to start following.   The spokes on the front wheel aren't looking too great and the rim is well worn, so it's two new wheels.  The chain was due for replacement anyway, being about a year old and starting to sag.   And while I'm at it, I'll gear up by a tooth or two, now that I know what gear I've been riding (see discussion on gears on Velo Fixe). 

Happily, this happened in an empty bus lane at a relatively low speed, and it wasn't too far to walk home.  I'd hate to think of it happening as I went round, say, the Elephant and Castle roundabout. 

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Rig of Jarkness on 28 March, 2012, 07:06:04 pm
First lambs of the year  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 28 March, 2012, 07:19:07 pm
Bah the clouds of bugs have started to make their appearance at certain points on my commute. My eyes!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 28 March, 2012, 08:58:07 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 28 March, 2012, 11:16:26 am
Quote from: jane on 28 March, 2012, 10:21:15 am
I have to admit, I do feel a little concerned when I see on this thread, frequent posts about average speeds, which seem to indicate that people are riding in a similar way.  That's all.

Fair enough, but having a target doesn't automatically imply riding recklessly. There are parts of my commute where I have to go slow due to traffic, pedestrians, lights etc. But there are other parts of my commute (eg going up Fountain Drive) where the only limiting factor is my ability. If I want to improve my time, I concentrate on trying to go faster on those sections.

Also, saying someone else's behaviour is "a waste of time" isn't the same as expressing reasonable concerns about safety. I'm not offended but it is an unnecessarily personal criticism.
I said "it appears to me to be a waste of time".  I didn't say it categorically is a waste of time.   I was expressing my opinion and you are perfectly entitled to disagree with it.   I, personally, can't see the point of having target times on commutes, and I explained my reasons, but others obviously can and have given theirs.   That's fine.  It was in no way a personal criticism.  I am surprised you perceive it as such.   
And I myself said it is perfectly possible to ride fast and safely.  So we agree on that one. 
Anyway, back to commuting.  Had to do a lot of riding up to, around and back from the city centre today, for various reasons  I was collecting more signatures for the LCC petition (NSTN, do you know you and OH are on the back of all the petition sheets that were being filled in today?) so part of the 35 or so miles today involved a commute to and from Malet St and then back up to Aldwych and the LSE.  Much better day today- lots of lovely cyclists being sensible.  Friendly bus drivers, and polite cabbies.  One leaned out of his cab when we were both stuck behind a massive German coach and several buses on the Strand and gave me a lollipop.  "Is it poisoned?" I asked. He chuckled and told me he had had a bike like mine when he was a kid.  Got called sweetness by the Rastas in Burgess Park (must have been on the strong stuff today) and helped a flustered dad repair his daughter's bike there too, on the way home. (When are they going to open up the park properly?) So today was a different cycling experience all round.  Lovely. Only one lowish point: two silly sods racing each other up the Surrey Canal shared path.  Oh, and saw a dog get hit in the face by a car on Peckham High St.  That was weird.
Strangely, I am far more tired today than after the 100 miler on Saturday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 28 March, 2012, 09:42:54 pm
Quote from: jane on 28 March, 2012, 10:21:15 am
Quote from: citoyen on 28 March, 2012, 08:18:07 am
Quote from: jane on 28 March, 2012, 04:16:41 am
Having a target average speed for a commute, as a few people seem to do, appears to me a bit of a waste of time

Well, the world would be a boring place if we all thought the same about everything.

d.

As I myself rode home, heading off the Waterloo roundabout, a cyclist swung out of Stamford St, very fast and therefore wide, forcing me to swerve out of his way. 

I've been cut up by cyclists as a pedestrian trying to cross Stamford Street at the other end - when they jump the lights and complain at the pedestrians who have only a short window to cross whilst keeping their lives.  However, I expect these are the same people who when driving cars would cut me up as a cyclist.

I rather enjoyed my commute back today - in shorts - in March - finding the right 4 x 4 to slipstream down the Bath Road in Reading at speeds a lot higher than I would dare cycle in London  8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 28 March, 2012, 11:47:02 pm
Quote from: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 28 March, 2012, 09:42:54 pm
I've been cut up by cyclists as a pedestrian trying to cross Stamford Street at the other end - when they jump the lights and complain at the pedestrians who have only a short window to cross whilst keeping their lives.  However, I expect these are the same people who when driving cars would cut me up as a cyclist.

I go through there often, crossing from Stamford Street into Southwark Street, and the general standards of behaviour from all classes of road user are pretty poor. Except pedestrians, who can be excused because they've been given a really bad deal with the design of the crossing.

It would be very instructional to set up a hidden camera at that junction. But I suspect the evidence of such a camera would be far more damning to motorists than cyclists. Every flipping time, I see at least two or three vehicles continue to turn right off Blackfriars Bridge into Stamford Street after the lights have changed to red. Not just amber-gambling, proper full-on red light jumping.

Not that this excuses the idiots on bikes (usually couriers) who sail through the junction like they're in an alleycat race, but at least if they hit a pedestrian it's going to make less mess than if one of those RLJing lorries hits them.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 29 March, 2012, 09:53:01 am
Some lovely images of the school run on this morning's ride.

A teenage girl in school uniform, pushing a pram and lighting a fag. A giggly girl eating a Curly Wurly for breakfast. Two lads fighting at the bus stop - I mean proper fighting, with fists and kicks and blood, egged on by a large noisy crowd of other kids. They were all so wrapped up in the fight, they'd spilled out into the road and the traffic was backing up!
Further on - a small kid crying. I assume it was his bag hanging from the branch of a tree; not sure if he'd thrown it there and was lamenting his own stupidity, or if he'd been bullied.

All in a morning's school run. Ho Hum.

As for my commute - it was fast today; exactly an hour for 27km.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bloomers100 on 29 March, 2012, 10:02:11 am
At 0630 I could see a man standing still on the pavement ahead in Highwood, strange I thought, there's not usually someone standing there (cos there's not a lot of variation out in the sticks). When I got along side I saw he was standing next to his car which was on it's side completely filling the gate posts to someone's house, great piece of parking, not what I was expecting. I asked if he was okay, he said he was, I stifled the obvious one liners.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 29 March, 2012, 10:08:21 am
I'd have stopped and taken a picture, and posted it on iparklikeac@nt.com
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 29 March, 2012, 10:09:46 am
Quote from: Chris S on 29 March, 2012, 09:53:01 am
As for my commute - it was fast today; exactly an hour for 27km.

58m 59s for 26.74km = 27.2km/h.

I win! ;)

(Not through London - rural route this morning.)

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 29 March, 2012, 10:32:03 am
It was warm enough for sandals this morning!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 29 March, 2012, 11:13:23 am
Quote from: citoyen on 29 March, 2012, 10:09:46 am
58m 59s for 26.74km = 27.2km.

I win! ;)

(Not through London - rural route this morning.)

d.

Rats! I shouldn't have stopped to join in with the shouting crowd watching the fight  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 29 March, 2012, 02:11:56 pm
I had the trailer and a 67" gear and a headwind and sore legs. About 22kph average.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 29 March, 2012, 03:06:10 pm
Quote from: simonp on 28 March, 2012, 11:40:46 am
A guy in Cambridge was done for furious riding for riding at 30mph down St Andrews Street or Sidney Street (pedestrianised, though not car free central Cambridge) - apparently his training route. That was more than deserved.

Was he in training for Paris-Roubaix  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 29 March, 2012, 04:37:17 pm
Why do drivers overtake just before the lights then pull hard left? What's the story with that, can't they keep the car straight?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 29 March, 2012, 04:53:57 pm
Quote from: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 29 March, 2012, 03:06:10 pm
Quote from: simonp on 28 March, 2012, 11:40:46 am
A guy in Cambridge was done for furious riding for riding at 30mph down St Andrews Street or Sidney Street (pedestrianised, though not car free central Cambridge) - apparently his training route. That was more than deserved.

Was he in training for Paris-Roubaix  ???

http://www.camcycle.org.uk/newsletters/14/article14.html

Yes, the speed limit's 30mph. That has about zero relevance.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 29 March, 2012, 05:25:46 pm
Since a move of office location I've a new commute route.  So far this week I've had added bits at the start in the morning or at the end in the evening for shopping, parcel officing, beering etc.  So today was my first complete ride in and back with no extra added faffing.
Blimey! It's only a tad over 8.5 miles round trip.  :(
I'm going to have to get into a life of faffing if I want to rack up any meaningful miles in a week.
Or maybe I need to get involved in a few more forum rides.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 29 March, 2012, 05:27:14 pm
Quote from: Basil on 29 March, 2012, 05:25:46 pm
Since a move of office location I've a new commute route.  So far this week I've had added bits at the start in the morning or at the end in the evening for shopping, parcel officing, beering etc.  So today was my first complete ride in and back with no extra added faffing.
Blimey! It's only a tad over 8.5 miles round trip.  :(
I'm going to have to get into a life of faffing if I want to rack up any meaningful miles in a week.
Or maybe I need to get involved in a few more forum rides.

http://www.audax.uk.net/
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 29 March, 2012, 05:30:47 pm
Got lucky in the traffic light raffle and carrying less luggage than usual meant quite a quick run.  Only average amount of numpties, including standard not indicating as they pull awayu from the curb. Highly trained spidey senses FTW.

Going home will take longer, as I'm off to Tooting to visit Mrs. Hall Senior in the horse piddle.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 29 March, 2012, 05:36:54 pm
Quote from: simonp on 29 March, 2012, 05:27:14 pm
Quote from: Basil on 29 March, 2012, 05:25:46 pm
Since a move of office location I've a new commute route.  So far this week I've had added bits at the start in the morning or at the end in the evening for shopping, parcel officing, beering etc.  So today was my first complete ride in and back with no extra added faffing.
Blimey! It's only a tad over 8.5 miles round trip.  :(
I'm going to have to get into a life of faffing if I want to rack up any meaningful miles in a week.
Or maybe I need to get involved in a few more forum rides.

http://www.audax.uk.net/

seconded :)

there are some very good rides in proximity to you in Beermingamm.
Dunno about Wales
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 29 March, 2012, 05:53:58 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 29 March, 2012, 05:30:47 pm
Got lucky in the traffic light raffle and carrying less luggage than usual meant quite a quick run.  Only average amount of numpties, including standard not indicating as they pull awayu from the curb. Highly trained spidey senses FTW.

Going home will take longer, as I'm off to Tooting to visit Mrs. Hall Senior in the horse piddle.

Airzound, eh?

(oh, and GWS MrsHS)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 29 March, 2012, 07:14:41 pm
Only 2 more! Yay!

Tonight, when I was undertaking (as in doing, not preparing for burial or overtaking on the inside) the second (of four) screamy sweary arm waving rants gestures at drivers passing too close, a following driver took note and held well back.

I must have been scary. He can't have read my lips, after all, being behind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 29 March, 2012, 08:15:56 pm
I sayed “Thank you!” quite sarcastically to a woman who came through the cattle grid on the path the other way very fast forcing me to give way by coming to a halt. I think her “You’re welcome!” was equally sarcastic.

The loose Alsatian was much more polite.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 29 March, 2012, 08:33:15 pm
Back to an early morning commute today. Cool calm and quiet.  No idea of my average speed, but I clocked 21 mph on the speed indicator on Cheltenham Rd.  Will try and see if I can get it to 22 tomorrow. ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 29 March, 2012, 09:05:04 pm
Quote from: jane on 28 March, 2012, 08:58:07 pm

Anyway, back to commuting.  Had to do a lot of riding up to, around and back from the city centre today, for various reasons  I was collecting more signatures for the LCC petition (NSTN, do you know you and OH are on the back of all the petition sheets that were being filled in today?)

 ;D

Websites, magazines, petition sheets... Soon I will be far too famous to associate with you little people! Good on you for collecting the signatures!

I have been stuck in all day with a lurgy that I've had all week; pushing through it wasn't working so I stayed at home today which seems to have helped.

Just contemplating whether I should cycle to my meeting first thing in Moorgate tomorrow. Dislike leaving my bike outside, but dislike ramming onto the Northern line even more. I think poor Rob is secretly hoping it will be stolen; its large handlebars have given him a bruise on his hip from squeezing past it in the hallway, and it is even too big for the bike bunker! Mmm.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 29 March, 2012, 10:15:47 pm
I had a fun commute.  I left work late, realised I may as well meet up with Butterfly, so I had a bit of time, which I used visiting Savoy Steps, then pootling to Brixton.

Then we rode home together, which was really nice. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 29 March, 2012, 10:28:42 pm
Quote from: jane on 29 March, 2012, 08:33:15 pm
Back to an early morning commute today. Cool calm and quiet.  No idea of my average speed, but I clocked 21 mph on the speed indicator on Cheltenham Rd.  Will try and see if I can get it to 22 tomorrow. ;)

Rode to work on the Audax bike today (since the usual one is awaiting a large number of new bits after yesterday's incident), upon which there is a computer.  Sadly it died before telling me how far I had gone and how quickly I had gone there.   :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 30 March, 2012, 09:15:33 am
I was expecting to be posting about Friday legs today, as I was a bit stiff starting off, but I see my average was 24kph, which is pretty good for me, so something must have been going better than I thought it did. 

Nice sunny morning, but still a tad chilly when I set out.  I rode my usual route to Oval, then turned off to go up to the IWM.  I saw the pump which Speshact blogged about, but I didn't stop to have a play, as it was on the wrong side.  Maybe later.

I actually went a bit further up than IWM, as I remembered that didn't add enough to make 20km. 

Mistake.

I went into the land of the imbecile. 

Setting off as the lights changed at Southwark Station, where the road jinks to the right, a berk zipped past on my right, almost crashing into me.  He did apologise, but he looked like he should know better.

Not so the Doriser.  He was wobbling about in the middle of the road after crossing Great Suffolk St.  Three faster riders were holding back to see what he did, but he seemed to be intent on continuing his erratic cours, so we held left in file and rode through.  Plenty of space.

Well, there would have been.  But the numpty had pulled sharply to the left as I passed.  Tbh, I saw his finger shoot out briefly, and that he wasn't looking, so I had a choice.  I didn't have space for an emergnecy stop, and if I carried on as I was, he'd hit me in the middle.  So I put a quick spurt on, and he caught the bars on my saddlebag.  He fell off.  I stopped, but he was straight up and on the bike, apologising.

Ah well, no one seriously hurt, and the first bike-bike collision I've had in streets littered with idiots in a very long time, so not an issue.

Then, as I was about to cross Southwark Bridge Road, a pedestrian stepped into the road in an iPod daze, and almost tripped over my front wheel (I was behind the line and not moving) ::-)

After that lot, I should have been glad to finish the ride as soon as possible, but it was with a great regret that I dismounted at work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 30 March, 2012, 12:02:43 pm
Yesterday I died.  Then a few seconds later my heart restarted.

I was a couple of kilometers into my commute. I am on the A4119 heading westward from Cardiff.  There is a hill down to Rhydlafar where my bike quickly rolls to a little over 30mph.  At the bottom Crofft y Genau, a minor road,  from St Fagins joins the A road at a T junction with give way lines.  As I pass the junction a car pulls out giving me no time to brake or swerve. So a collision occurs. I stand up look at my bleeding leg and feel a pain in my left chest and was feeling overall bloody and dizzy.  I comment incorrectly "I think I have a broken rib."  I sit down on the traffic island with my back to a light box.  I demand to someone near me, "Call an ambulance".  I continue the task of assessing my damage.  Compared with my pre Christmas  accident I skidded less far so the quantity of abrasions was less but the bad wound below my right knee that still had not completely healed was open again leaking blood.  My right hand goes searching for the broken rib but there was no trace the pain had completely disappeared. How could something that made me sit down quickly just disappear?

The ambulance man arrives and asks me my name etc and I show him the obvious abrasions. I repeat my belief that something was wrong with the left side of my chest but nothing was found. So I get in the ambulance and I am taken to the University Hospital very slowly through the rush hour traffic and I walk into emergency.  I wait a long time but eventually the doctors turn up. The first one checks my chest but finds nothing wrong.  The second cleans out the hole below my knee which is deeper bit less wide than previously. She was very thorough so it hurt a bit despite the anesthetic.  At 12:30 I am released and phone my father to come and get me.

At the accident a bike shop worker from Cyclelogical took my bike for safe keeping.  I knew something bad has happened to my bike so when I arrived in Church Village I was only slightly surprised to find the front of the frame was only connected to the back with its cables and hoses. So my pride and joy not much more than a thousand mile old is dead and I am without a bike.

In the evening I realised there was another important organ in the left chest area and I deduced the source of the pain and dizziness.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 30 March, 2012, 12:11:50 pm
Jeez ACTF you are having the worst luck ever these past few months  :o
I'm so glad you're still here to write about it!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 30 March, 2012, 12:16:29 pm
Christ, CTF, that's awful - real shame about the bike, and I know we often like to joke that "at least the bike is OK" on occasions like this, but fuck the bike, you're very lucky that it seems to have taken most of the impact rather than you - that could have been a whole lot nastier. GWS.

Maybe you could use the sharp edges of the remaining bike bits to carry out an Insertion of Clue operation on the driver...

Btw, were you wearing an HRM? Its output could make interesting reading from a purely scientific point of view.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 30 March, 2012, 12:18:29 pm
Pleased you're still with us.  Did the Police attend?  Did anyone get the driver's details and log witnesses? I'm not expecting you to have done this.

Oh - and now for n+1? ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 30 March, 2012, 12:23:20 pm
Quote from: clarion on 30 March, 2012, 09:15:33 am
Ah well, no one seriously hurt, and the first bike-bike collision I've had in streets littered with idiots in a very long time, so not an issue.

There did seem to be more than the usual number of idiots out this morning. It's the sun that brings them out, I guess. Oh well, rather they were on bikes than in cars if that's the way they comport themselves on the road.

The most notable idiot I encountered this morning was the one who yelped at me for waiting behind a lorry rather than filtering up the inside, thus blocking her way. Thing is, I could see that the road narrowed ahead and really didn't want to take any chances. She still tried to squeeze past me and up the inside of the lorry, but only got halfway before running out of space. Determined to become another statistic, apparently. :facepalm:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 30 March, 2012, 12:26:06 pm
Yes, I saw a lot of alarming squeezing through this morning.  And RLJing, too.  Annoyingly, from people who I thought would know better, including one pretty fast woman on a good-looking Bianchi with bold pink details.  She went through three red lights, the idiot.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 30 March, 2012, 12:29:31 pm
Loverly morning, a bit cold but beautiful

This can't go on  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 30 March, 2012, 12:39:03 pm
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 30 March, 2012, 12:02:43 pm
In the evening I realised there was another important organ in the left chest area and I deduced the source of the pain and dizziness.
Have you had a doc check out your heart?  AFAIK, they can tell if you've had a heart attack by doing a blood test.

Sorry to hear about this accident, such a damn shame to lose a bike again so quickly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 30 March, 2012, 01:04:44 pm
Quote from: clarion on 30 March, 2012, 12:26:06 pm
Yes, I saw a lot of alarming squeezing through this morning.  And RLJing, too.  Annoyingly, from people who I thought would know better, including one pretty fast woman on a good-looking Bianchi with bold pink details.  She went through three red lights, the idiot.
I saw two guys on good bikes both take to the pavement to circumvent a temporary set of lights at the bottom of a hill. There were two school girls on the pavement at the time and I don't think either of them dropped their speed below 15mph.

I caught up with them both at the lights by Kingston Hospital half a mile later.

Nerks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 30 March, 2012, 01:15:26 pm
Great fun on the way home yesterday evening winding up someone who looked old enough to know better in a convertible Audi TT.

Encounter 1   Just after lights by Kingston Hospital, he roars past, too fast and too close, not looking at the bus and attendant traffic queue stopped ahead.
"Too close and too fast" I shout as he passes.

Encounter 2   About 300 yards further on he is held up in the queue behind the bus.
"You need to slow down" as I pass.

Encounter 3   A further 300 yards on as the traffic clears slightly he whistles past, revving unnecessarily (but at least giving me space), straight into the back of another tail of traffic.
"You need to look a little further ahead" as I pass.

The traffic in front of him is moving so I slip into the available slot and hold primary. There's a bus up front that's not going too quickly and I can keep up the pace. He sits behind in too low a gear and too close to my rear wheel for my liking. But the moving queue approaches a non-moving queue and I leave them all behind.

Big smile.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Karla on 30 March, 2012, 02:22:51 pm
Good work  :thumbsup:

On the off chance that yesterday's moton reads this, which I severely doubt, let me educate him:

If you're going to get a white car with a personalised plate, don't get a Volvo.  Even if I didn't reserve a special hatred for the Swedish behemoths, it really doesn't fit the image.
I was slowing you down, was I?  Clearly, you speak another language.  20+mph towards a junction doesn't count as slow in any of the ones that I speak. 
You "can see why cyclists get a bad rep?"  Well I can certainly see why skinhead men with too much testosterone and nowhere to put it get a bad rep! 
If you think that slows you down, just wait to see what else I can do ...
Now let me show  you how I'm faster than you through town.

Enjoy your sordid little life!  If you want, I can find you some Viagra.  It should reduce the need for automotive replacement therapy.  Luv'n'stuff  O:-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 30 March, 2012, 03:32:05 pm
Quote from: clarion on 30 March, 2012, 12:18:29 pm
Pleased you're still with us.  Did the Police attend?  Did anyone get the driver's details and log witnesses? I'm not expecting you to have done this.

Oh - and now for n+1? ;D

I have the driver's name, insurance company, policy number and case number.
There were witnesses but I was in no state to get their details.  I think the driver recorded details but they may have left before the police arrived.

I had a leisurely N+2 project in progress. It may become an urgent  N+3 if the insurance company pays up. My main problem at the moment is I can not do anything about the N=0.95 project.  I am unable to walk much more than five metres at a time let alone the complex manoeuvres we take for granted when fettling. 

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 30 March, 2012, 03:38:44 pm
You certainly seem to be going through the wars.... have you considered armour plating for the new one? GWS
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 30 March, 2012, 04:00:17 pm
CTF, I hope you get yourself checked out and feel better soon.

Pootled to Moorgate this morning. I’ve cycled from home into the City many times for weekend rides that begin at Liverpool station, but never in the morning at rush hour.

I was part of a bunch of cyclists pretty much the whole way, it was brilliant. A bit of numpty behaviour as cyclists tried to weave between other cyclists without looking where they were going, but nothing I hadn’t anticipated. I wasn’t going to go round Elephant roundabout being as I was on the slowest bike I own and had planned to use the stupid ‘bypass’, but in the end I didn’t need to being as there were enough cyclists heading towards the RAB that I didn’t feel unsafe not being able to match the traffic speeds.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 30 March, 2012, 04:52:38 pm
CTF, sounds rough, but so glad you are still in one piece, even if your bike isn't.  +1 to NSTN, though, check that ticker out. 
Well done for getting driver details.  I had a similar collision, quite a few years ago, with a car shooting out from a minor road into my right of way.  In those shock fazed post collision moments I just jumped back on the bike and rode home, despite a buckled wheel plus other stuff.   It's hard to retain awareness of reality in that situation.  Obviously,  thankfully, that course of action wasn't possible for you, with a bike in two bits and you probably aren't as daft as I was then.  You did well, and I hope you can get the driver's insurance to fund a new bike for you. 
 My commute today, thankfully, far less eventful.  Didn't manage to get the Cheltenham Rd speed check thing up above 20mph, today, only managed 19mph.  A few more bikes this morning, as I left an hour later than usual (7.15am, end of term so less work to prepare).  Quite a few wannabe racers ( the bike kind) out already.  One overtook me as I stopped for a bus pulling out at the top  of Cheltenham Rd, just before
Peckham Rye.  However, I shot past him on the downhill of the Rye, which surprised me as I only have one gear and he had many, including some much higher  than mine, I would guess.  Then he shot over the red light at the junction with Nunhead Lane, overtaking me again.  I caught up and passed again on the  swerve around the one way and then he shot over another red light at the top of Rye lane.  I caught up easily (wasn't really trying, honest guv) only to see him swoop past another red just before the last bit of Rye Lane.  I caught him again at the lights by Peckham library, where he had to stop due to a steady stream of
traffic on Peckham High St, and I  tried to make eye contact but he turned away very quickly.  Then he shot off, up the shared path past the library at breakneck, looking like he was intent on catching another cyclist who headed off that way ahead of him. 
   I turned off, to follow the road to work.  If time is an issue for me, I won't use shared paths.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 30 March, 2012, 05:42:05 pm
Got hassled by a Westminster waste truck driver who objected to me waiting at a ped crossing (where there were no peds crossing) until the lights changed!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 30 March, 2012, 06:30:34 pm
Friday commute.  Ahhhh...... that's better  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 30 March, 2012, 06:42:45 pm
I was getting pretty despondent about a month ago. Significant birthday was recently passed and I just couldn't seem to get my speed up to what it used to be. I reckon I was 1mph down on where I had been last year.

This last three weeks I'm feeling fantastic, eating like a horse, and if anything my speed is up 1mph on last year.

Big smile (again).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 30 March, 2012, 07:00:10 pm
My Friday legs arrived properly tonight.  I had been expecting to go home at lunchtime, and I'd been waiting all afternoon for something which still isn't finished >:(, so I was a bit sluggish to start with.

Got faster by the end, but it took a while. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 31 March, 2012, 12:01:40 pm
Twaturday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wowbagger on 31 March, 2012, 06:41:44 pm
I was off to a choir practice this afternoon (that counts as commuting in my book) and I was in the process of crossing a busy dual carriageway A127 at Progress Road) using the ped/ cyclist crossing. The light was green for me but there was an ambulance coming with its blue light on so I waited. Another car moved forward to let the ambulance through.

I crossed, narrowly avoiding being mown down by the car whose driver had decided he was going to reverse back behind the white line.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 April, 2012, 10:02:15 am
A lovely commute.  Chilly to start with, because I was in shorts and was wearing mitts, but it warmed up a bit as the sun rose.  I was a bit embarrassed because I had fettled Butterfly's tandem back to work mode, but there was a ringing sound from the rear disc.  Hope she can sort it.  Leaving her work, I rode the back way again, which was more pleasant because of a lack of motor traffic.

Loads of cyclists just having lots of fun along the way.  New Kent Road was particular fun, waiting at the lights while scores of bikes of all kinds go past. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bloomers100 on 02 April, 2012, 11:14:28 am
Was much chillier than I was expecting in central Essex this morning, bit of frost and not much wind. Sub 4 degrees for sure which would normally justify my warm jacket, but armwarmers and gilet it was.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 02 April, 2012, 11:22:54 am
Nice commute this morning, took a few miles to warm up.

Changed the gearing on the Peregrine last week think I've got it nearly right now - 39x20 on an Alfine 8 speed hub - on the old 46x20 gearing I was only using the bottom 5 and was afraid I'd run out of gears on a big hill, seem sorted now :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moultonaught on 02 April, 2012, 11:55:02 am
My first Boris bike experience from Marylebone to London Bridge.

I hadn't realised that it's preduent to check the status of the bikes in the rack before you get your casual user code - otherwise you have to wait 10 minutes for the next code at the next rack (or the rack after next-  for as the machine printed out my access code for the one remaining functioning bike at the next  nearest rack - someone with a Boris key arrived and took the bike!) so 10 more mins and the third rack and I was off! luckily there are 3 racks all in close proximety to Marylebone.

Lovely ride, although I think my route could have been more direct! Makes getting to the new office far more pleasurable until I can get my Brompton out of storage from my FiL's barn...  ;D

looking forward to the ride back
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 02 April, 2012, 12:38:00 pm
Legs felt rubbish this morning but it's my fastest commute so far this year @17.7mph avg  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 02 April, 2012, 01:20:13 pm
Lovely ride. Roads noticeably quieter and lots more "utility" cyclists around than is normally the case. I was riding with a freewheel and kept forgetting that I had to use my levers to brake  :-[

Rode a lot of the way in through New Cross and New Kent Road in the same little bit of space as a guy on a beautiful unbranded (to my untrained eye) red fixie with drop bars and one of those single brake leversjust to the right of the stem.  He really knew how to ride through traffic  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 03 April, 2012, 10:38:39 am
29km/h (18mph) average for this morning's commute - 27km in a smidge over 55 minutes. Not sure if it's a PB but pretty pleased with that anyway.

At about halfway, I thought I might be on course for the holy grail of 30, but maybe I went off too hard at the start as I was struggling to maintain my speed towards the end, and that's normally the fastest section. Also, it didn't help that I was forced to slow down at one point by a numpty motorist overtaking me (despite my best efforts to use road positioning to dissuade him) just before a row of parked cars, where a car coming the other way forced him to stop and wait, and there was no room for me to pass safely. Lost a good few seconds there. Pah!

That's the rural route, by the way, not the central London route, although I did manage 28km/h on the ride from Southwark to Bromley yesterday evening - only possible thanks to much lighter than usual traffic, presumably because it's the school hols. 38 minutes. That's definitely a PB.

Average speed for April so far is 28.53km/h. Wonder how long I'll be able to keep that up...  8)

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 April, 2012, 10:40:42 am
definitely fast, though. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 03 April, 2012, 11:09:41 am
I felt heavy-legged this morning, and there seemed to be a strong head-wind. When I got into the office, I looked at the speedo, and it said 25.4kph rolling average. Ah, that explains why it was such hard work and there seemed to be a lot of headwind - I was 2kph faster than Friday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 03 April, 2012, 11:22:25 am
I was asleep on my commute today :( zzzzzzzzzzzzzz
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 03 April, 2012, 11:37:52 am
Quote from: simonp on 03 April, 2012, 11:09:41 am
seemed to be a strong head-wind

Down my way, it was dead calm. Not even the slightest breeze. Good but quite weird.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 03 April, 2012, 02:08:33 pm
Damp today.
(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7195/6895641110_00a9a64341_z.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davidmam/6895641110/)
Wet commute (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davidmam/6895641110/) by davidmamartin (http://www.flickr.com/people/davidmam/), on Flickr
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 April, 2012, 02:44:02 pm
There does seem to be water leaking out of the sky here.  Don't recall seeing that before...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 03 April, 2012, 05:19:36 pm
Quote from: clarion on 03 April, 2012, 02:44:02 pm
There does seem to be water leaking out of the sky here.  Don't recall seeing that before...

I remember hearing an old folk tale of water coming out of the sky and turning grass green* but I thought it was just one of those stories parents used to scare their kids.

d.

*Yeah, right. Green grass indeed. Any fule kno grass is brown.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 03 April, 2012, 05:23:23 pm
Been feeling really sick all day and I'm not looking forward to the ride home. Just to top it off its now started hailing. It had better stop by hometime grrrrrr :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 03 April, 2012, 06:56:09 pm
I thought I was going to get out of the office before the rain started. I'm still in the office. It's just started raining...

Sod it, it's such a long time since I had a properly wet ride, it'll make a nice change.  ;D

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 03 April, 2012, 07:03:21 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 03 April, 2012, 06:56:09 pm
I thought I was going to get out of the office before the rain started. I'm still in the office. It's just started raining...

Sod it, it's such a long time since I had a properly wet ride, it'll make a nice change.  ;D

d.
Top man!  ;D
No rain here in Forest Hill.

Yet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 April, 2012, 07:53:12 pm
Of course, rain after a dry spell makes the roads greasy.

I had a grand ride this evening.  I arranged to meet TGL in Sutton to get his YP Railcard.  So I rode up the A217 and over Rose Hill.  Epic ride at fantastic speed.

Got the railcard, then rode home.  Nasty tight left turn near the station, off tarmac onto paviors.  Wet.  Greasy.

It was fine.  So I rode up the usual short route over the last hill home.

Except that downhill I hit 40kph and a patch of diesel at roughly the same time.  Amazingly, I didn't go straight down, but kept upright despite no traction at all until I ran out of road at a dropped kerb I was aiming for.  Over I went, grazing knee, thumb, and shoulder, then, ever so gently, my head touched down.  First time my head's ever been on the ground in an off.

My bike was off the road, so I just sat on the driveway for a few moments.  Two drivers kindly asked after my welfare, but I assured them I was fine.

Like the idiot we all are every time we've been off, I got back on my bike without checking it properly and rode home.  But I think it's OK.  Maybe the rear wheel's a bit knocked.  I'll give it a once over later.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Frere on 03 April, 2012, 07:59:42 pm
Ouchies, hope you ok and not too hurt?

Frere
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 April, 2012, 08:02:10 pm
I have a very bloody knee and my shoulder stings.  But I am sure it will all pass.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Frere on 03 April, 2012, 08:03:13 pm
Quote from: clarion on 03 April, 2012, 08:02:10 pm
I have a very bloody knee and my shoulder stings.  But I am sure it will all pass.

Bah:( may all that pass quickly

Frere
Title: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 03 April, 2012, 08:32:05 pm
Ouch Clarion, glad there's no serious damage. It'll hurt more tomorrow though, take care.

I had a nearly-off yesterday.
Took a different route home yesterday which took me over Bulls Bridge. The psychlepath is badly designed, and puts you crossing a busy off slip at the bottom of the hill, so you spend the last third of the descent looking over your shoulder judging if any of the traffic is going to make a last second exit.
I clipped a kerb, and dont quite know how I stayed on, but I still got some bruises to the thigh from being rammed by my own saddle, and burned a hole in the knee of my new 3/4's on the front wheel.
I think the pain of the knee burning reminded me of how lightly (un)protected my body is in summer
Lycra, and gave me the extra impetus I needed to keep from dragging said body on the gravel that was suddenly in sharp focus, or ending up splayed on a fast road known for impatient aggressive driving.
Had to stop for a few moments and calm down after that.
Was passed by an MTB rider who looked at me like a piece of s**t for being stopped in his way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 03 April, 2012, 08:45:44 pm
I left work hoping the rain had passed, but it had started again. I turned the wheel round in the comfort of the multi storey car park, gearing up to 46/17 from 46/18. It felt hyooge. I went the longish way, about 35km, and had a nice bit of aggressive horn sounding whilst riding through Lode (http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Lode,+United+Kingdom&hl=en&ll=52.236917,0.248045&spn=0.002592,0.006958&sll=45.312878,9.49785&sspn=0.095247,0.222645&oq=lode,+&hnear=Lode,+Cambridgeshire,+United+Kingdom&t=m&z=18&layer=c&cbll=52.236957,0.248221&panoid=xVd5GeDF1oMrwQO8JDMDIw&cbp=12,61.58,,0,22.62) at about 20mph. What’s that, you say? I can’t quite hear you above the sound of your horn. <fx: eases off, cups hand to ear> Several blasts of horn ensue. Revving of engine follows, but you're much of a coward to back it up, aren’t you?

By the time I finished the rain was steady. >27kph average.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 03 April, 2012, 08:55:19 pm
Wet & cold on the way home.  I'd only got armwarmers & a gilet + no overshoes so by the time I'd got home I'd lost the feeling in my arms & feet   :o. My own stoopid fault for not having the right clobber with me  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 03 April, 2012, 10:35:48 pm
Soaked through before I'd even left South Kensington, then through Balham the mother of all diesel or solvent spills. I turned off early deliberately because it was making my eyes sting. Can't believe no-one had come off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 03 April, 2012, 11:16:07 pm
Well, the rain had moved on by the time I left the office, but I caught up with it at Denmark Hill and it was quite persistent (as in "persisting down") from there onwards. Was feeling fine physically but very tired mentally after a long day in the office, so took it relatively easy compared to this morning and just enjoyed a pleasant ride. Glad I had some spare extra layers in my bag to put on to keep warm on the train.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Katie on 03 April, 2012, 11:53:04 pm
OK, so once a week I do commute to/from my St John Ambulance division meeting by bike. Inspired by an argument on farcebook earlier today, I mentally recorded all the obstructions I encountered in bike lanes on the 8 mile round trip... here's what I got:

36 potholes sizable enough to warrant significantly changing my path
3 stationary vehicles in bus/bike lane (neither of which were buses or bikes)
1 motorist passing with about a 2" gap between me and his wing mirror (their nearside set of wheels were actually in the green-painted bike lane)
2 piles of traffic cones
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 04 April, 2012, 07:34:36 am
Ohh.  I'm not liking the look of this morning.  :-\

Still, no choice now.  Too late to not cycle.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 04 April, 2012, 09:03:19 am
Gah!  :(

That was cold and 'orrible.  Why does snow settle so quickly on your spectacle lenses?
 >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 04 April, 2012, 09:03:53 am
As I said to you this morning Mr W4PUR, "Do that again and you will lose your wingmirror"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 April, 2012, 09:10:36 am
Rode in, but I was a bit nervous.  First outing for the Woodrup this year, which has its own quirks, and the overcaution which comes from an unscheduled dismount.  I wasn't as slick changing gears as I usually am on that bike.  Need to get some practice.  :-[

I went through the back roads, which is fairly direct and the traffic is lighter, but the surfaces are appalling in places, so I can tell why I normally ride 25s :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: darkpoint on 04 April, 2012, 09:29:50 am
Quote from: clarion on 03 April, 2012, 08:02:10 pm
I have a very bloody knee and my shoulder stings.  But I am sure it will all pass.

Ouch,  get well soon.

..  and you win your crash was more impressive than mine..
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cycleman on 04 April, 2012, 10:18:55 am
do want to borrow the trike again  :demon:. gws clarion
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 April, 2012, 11:10:43 am
;D  I'm fine with two wheels this time, thanks, cycleman.

darkpoint, it would have been more impressive if I'd not run out of road.  CTF trumps us all, of course. :-\

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 04 April, 2012, 11:30:31 am
Eek to Clarion and Darkpoint, ouch.

I tramlined between some wet cobbles yesterday, I made a sound that no doubt amused the tourists round the QE2 centre but somehow stayed upright, probably due to the fact that the Gazelle is as stable as a stable thing. Who decided to put such surfaces in the middle on Londonton, eh…

I met Rob at a friend’s house for dinner and later we cycled back, down Kings Avenue. It has a rubbishy potholed surface; the Gazelle was gliding over it with impunity but I could hear squawks coming from Rob behind. I don’t think his Brommie was dealing with the surface quite so well  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 April, 2012, 11:31:57 am
Those setts by the QE2 are the wrong way on.  It's very dangerous.  I used to ride across there every day when I worked in Great George Street.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 04 April, 2012, 12:21:54 pm
Snow n wind n wet n cold!  Not looking forward to the ride home :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spenceey on 04 April, 2012, 04:06:28 pm
Wet.

My first commute for a while.

Within 5 miles the front felt spongy - looked down stone embedded in my tyre - removed it and the old tube - now I have a hole in my tyre. Meant I had to keep stopping literally every 5 minutes to put air in.

Just been out and brought a new gatorskin front tyre - that'll be fun trying to fit that before I leave the office, why I decided to try rubino pro tech I don't know. Probably should have gone with the the gatorskins again - hey you live and learn right!


Well hopefully the commute home will be nicer.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 04 April, 2012, 07:48:29 pm
Been using NorrisBikes this week, for complicated reasons (my bikes are fine, I, OTOH...).

Anyway.  This evening, moving along at a fair clip (for a NorrisBike) I hit a very rough patch of road which couldn't be avoided due to the car next to me.  It bounced me off the saddle unexpectedly.  If that wasn't enough, my feet came off the pedals, too.  I now have a renewed appreciation for SPDs.

I'm actually quite enjoying these NorrisBike commutes, but do look forward to getting back on either of my bikes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 April, 2012, 10:05:36 pm
My commute went up over Knights Hill for no really good reason other than I wanted a climbing comparison between the Woodrup and the Ridgeback.  I managed 2kph faster on the Woodrup for the whole trip average.  Certainly didn't feel faster at the time.

I was interviewing for staff today.  At the end of every interview, I had to unstick my trousers from my knee wound :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 04 April, 2012, 10:17:43 pm
I did a skid on the tandem ::-). That was different.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 05 April, 2012, 08:22:31 am
Quote from: clarion on 04 April, 2012, 10:05:36 pm
My commute went up over Knights Hill for no really good reason other than I wanted a climbing comparison between the Woodrup and the Ridgeback.  I managed 2kph faster on the Woodrup for the whole trip average.  Certainly didn't feel faster at the time.

I was interviewing for staff today.  At the end of every interview, I had to unstick my trousers from my knee wound :(

Get some moist repair plaster on there mate. No sticking, no pain, quicker healing. Tegaderm/Duoderm is the common one.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 06 April, 2012, 02:46:52 am
First on the scene of a big smash on the south circular just after midnight. Spent an hour keeping the driver stable and calm while the roof was removed. I think most of the care taken was precautionary and they should be ok.

Some things make me angry and some make me feel quite powerless to do anything in the face motorised violence.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 06 April, 2012, 06:44:46 am
Quote from: benborp on 06 April, 2012, 02:46:52 am
First on the scene of a big smash on the south circular just after midnight. Spent an hour keeping the driver stable and calm while the roof was removed. I think most of the care taken was precautionary and they should be ok.

Some things make me angry and some make me feel quite powerless to do anything in the face motorised violence.
  :(. That sounds nasty. Hope you are ok.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 April, 2012, 07:21:53 am
Well done, benborp.  They were lucky to have you around.  Are you ok?  Seeing such things can be a bit traumatic.  Take care of yourself.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Katie on 06 April, 2012, 12:52:24 pm
Quote from: benborp on 06 April, 2012, 02:46:52 am
First on the scene of a big smash on the south circular just after midnight. Spent an hour keeping the driver stable and calm while the roof was removed. I think most of the care taken was precautionary and they should be ok.

Some things make me angry and some make me feel quite powerless to do anything in the face motorised violence.
Well done. You probably had the most important job there; keeping someone talking and calm means there's less work for the emergency services to do when they arrive. Make sure you look after yourself the next few days x
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 06 April, 2012, 02:44:50 pm
Thanks guys. I am struggling today. Even though I got a phone call from the driver to say thanks and that she was out of hospital. Flashbacks to my mother-in-law's near fatal incident combined with an unpleasant encounter on the way in to work this morning are getting me down. I shouted at a driver "Stop looking in your pockets, put your hands on the wheel." as he drove erratically, head down searching through his clothes along the Walworth Road. My shout had the desired effect and he started to concentrate on driving. However, at Elephant and Castle he undertook and pulled into the ASL. He had managed to find his i-pod and put his earphones in by now. "I hope you die under a bus. I hope you die under that bus in a minute."
I'm starting to wish I had planted a cleat in his face.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 06 April, 2012, 02:55:06 pm
Christ.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 06 April, 2012, 03:00:33 pm
benborp, just be glad that you aren't that sad useless twat sat in the metal box.  That you know the joy of riding a bike, and the value of social responsibility.  That you know how to make the right choices.  And look after yourself, go easy on yourself and be kind to yourself, because that sounds like a crappy morning.  I recommend CAIK to start off with.  I generally do, y'know....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 07 April, 2012, 05:31:30 pm
I went on my Tes*o run today on my first day off in a week, and as I approached my right turn it was out into primary with my right arm out after a shoulder check, start to swing to the turn, and KJ53SXN overtakes.

So naturally I shout 'banker' and he pulls over. I have a shouted conversation across the road, but can't hear him, so I cross over. In response to the question "would you do that to an indicating car?" he got out and started threatening, so I walked away. The ride back started with the woman who drove straight at me on a roundabout, so it's been one of those days (esp after the morning's events)

Didn't memorise the first number. Photographed the second. Now entered on Surrey Police Drive Smart.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 08 April, 2012, 01:15:55 am
Quote from: benborp on 03 March, 2012, 02:57:49 pm
Had the worst case of must get past the cyclist I've seen for quite a while. 20mph road, speed bumps, greasy conditions, I'm in primary following a car. A driver attempts an overtake before dropping back to brake for one of the speed bumps. I turn and give a slowing signal, look directly at the driver and say 'There is no where for you to go.' She shouts back 'Fuck off!' At this point I am slowing as the car in front is braking to a stop. The driver behind sees the opportunity and goes for the overtake. Unfortunately, the car ahead has stopped to allow a woman and her small child to cross the road at a zebra crossing. The overtaking driver passes both of us and slaloms over the crossing between the car ahead of me and an oncoming car that is forced to stop short, as are the woman and child.
I'll put together a statement and report this to the police tonight.

Video here (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-dpDvYrcFEI)

edited to add video link.

Letter from the Met today:
Quote
"In view of the lack of independent evidence to support your claim, we are unable to initiate proceedings on this occasion. However, the registered owner/keeper of the vehicle has been notified of your allegation and a record of the incident will be kept within this office."
I think that's bollocks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 08 April, 2012, 01:36:12 am
Seems likely.  I can't imagine they've attempted to contact the driver of the car in front of you, for example.   >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 08 April, 2012, 12:32:59 pm
Just had the Surrey police on the phone. They are popping round this afternoon for a fortune-telling session with the driver. Best I could realistically hope for.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 08 April, 2012, 12:55:29 pm
Quote from: benborp on 08 April, 2012, 01:15:55 am
I think that's bollocks.

Me too. What do they thing the video is? CGI?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 09 April, 2012, 12:29:39 pm
Quote from: tonycollinet on 08 April, 2012, 12:55:29 pm
Quote from: benborp on 08 April, 2012, 01:15:55 am
I think that's bollocks.

Me too. What do they thing the video is? CGI?

I think I've heard that excuse from the cops, it doesn't count as evidence because Industrial Light and Magic may have tampered with the footage or something.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 09 April, 2012, 04:25:24 pm
Quote from: benborp on 08 April, 2012, 01:15:55 am
Quote from: benborp on 03 March, 2012, 02:57:49 pm
Had the worst case of must get past the cyclist I've seen for quite a while. 20mph road, speed bumps, greasy conditions, I'm in primary following a car. A driver attempts an overtake before dropping back to brake for one of the speed bumps. I turn and give a slowing signal, look directly at the driver and say 'There is no where for you to go.' She shouts back 'Fuck off!' At this point I am slowing as the car in front is braking to a stop. The driver behind sees the opportunity and goes for the overtake. Unfortunately, the car ahead has stopped to allow a woman and her small child to cross the road at a zebra crossing. The overtaking driver passes both of us and slaloms over the crossing between the car ahead of me and an oncoming car that is forced to stop short, as are the woman and child.
I'll put together a statement and report this to the police tonight.

Video here (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-dpDvYrcFEI)

edited to add video link.

Letter from the Met today:
Quote
"In view of the lack of independent evidence to support your claim, we are unable to initiate proceedings on this occasion. However, the registered owner/keeper of the vehicle has been notified of your allegation and a record of the incident will be kept within this office."
I think that's bollocks.
I think their refusal is worth writing to your MP about. That's as clear a case of road idiocy as I have seen.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 09 April, 2012, 08:40:18 pm
There are three car drivers there that would be worth contacting about this.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 10 April, 2012, 07:51:54 am
Having been forced to take the whole holiday weekend off to get some rest, I'm absolutely knackered and very slow today
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 10 April, 2012, 02:40:30 pm
Big bunch of us at the lights this morning, as is usual. One of my fellow commuters appeared to be labouring under the misapprehension that he was, in actual fact, Sir Chris Hoy, and his commute was the World Track Championships.

This is all well and good, whatever gets you through, except instead of a velodrome we were on the joy that is Parliament square, surrounded by buses and trucks ‘n’ stuff, and forcing your way through a gap that wasn’t really there was probably not quite such a smart idea in those circs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Rig of Jarkness on 10 April, 2012, 07:21:25 pm
A dark winter's morning on the ride in, complete with driving sleet - truly foul  :(

But beautiful spring sunshine on the way home, complete with gleaming snow on the hills  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: niggle on 10 April, 2012, 08:13:28 pm
I'm on holiday, spent the whole day lounging about and surfing the net whilst various versions of unpleasant precipitation fell past the windows  ;D

I have earned it though, having ridden 18 miles on Saturday to stay overnight near Penzance, 134 miles on Sunday including the Four Hundreds 200 audax and 18 miles back yesterday mostly up hill in pouring rain.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 11 April, 2012, 07:50:37 am
Pretty quick today, average of 19.2mph for the 12 miles, a combination of last nights donut binge and the god of traffic lights smiling on me, every one a green  :thumbsup:

Morning shower was invigorating with no hot water in the new facility  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 April, 2012, 01:23:09 pm
Follow up to previous issues:

Quote from: SERCO
Dear Sirs

 

Following your complaint you have made about the poor standard of driving for the drivers of  vehicles BX60 AOA and BX61 NUP and following my internal investigation I can now respond with my findings.

 

Using our tracking system I can confirm that the vehicles were placed in the locations and times in which you have reported and that the drivers of these vehicles have been identified.

 

As the Vehicle Operations Manager for the base in which these vehicles are dispatched I can tell you I take any complaint seriously and ensure it is  investigated thoroughly.

 

Every six months our drivers are given a driver assessment which are conducted by our own qualified Institute Of Advanced Motorist as well as undertaking CPC for 7 hours per year over 5 years which is a continuous cycle and mandatory.

 

As a result of your complaint both drivers have been interviewed and will attend weekly driving  assessments until I am satisfied there driving standards are professional and courteous to other road users and should at any point they fail to meet our professional standards they will be removed from driving duties.

 

I would personally like to apologise for my staffs poor standards but I can assure you I will do everything I can to make sure you and other road users never have cause to complain about the standards of driving from my staff again.
 

****** ****
Vehicle Operations Manager

Croydon Base


Which I read as 'I don't really believe you', but I suppose it is something.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 11 April, 2012, 01:45:31 pm
Oh I dunno.   It seemed like a pretty reasonable response to me.  First check that it wasn't a malicious report and,  being satisfied it wasn't, mark the guilty drivers for extra attention and the sender did have the good grace to apologise rather than use some legal "not our liability" flim-flam.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 April, 2012, 01:50:27 pm
Yes.  And all credit to him for that.  In fact, I got one of the VRNs slightly wrong, and he worked out which vehicle it was.  I suspect that the previous evening's incident, which I wouldn't have reported but for the later fuckwittery, involved one of those two vehicles as well.

Makes the point that it's well worth noting the exact time and position of an incident to improve verifiability.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 11 April, 2012, 01:57:07 pm
Indeed, if I ever report bad/dangerous driving I usually lay facts out as if reporting a incident for insurance purposes (including, if needed the weather conditions).

Once or twice this has prevented companies wriggling out their responsibilities as it removes the "we don't know if our vehicle was there at that time" factor.  Most commercial vehicles are now fitted with GPS trackers so a competent fleet manager will be able to pinpoint where the vehicle was in any 5 or 10 minute slot (and extrapolate if necessary).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Domestique on 11 April, 2012, 04:25:06 pm
Riding home from work this afternoon I suddenly realised I could hear the birds singing in the trees/bush's. I am not sure that this is normally the case given at times other than school holidays there is so much traffic/noise on the roads.
Anyway hearing the birds singing, made me smile.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 11 April, 2012, 04:26:39 pm
Lots of loose dogs, two squirrels, no polecats.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 April, 2012, 06:23:25 pm
On the commute?  Off it, actually. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 April, 2012, 07:36:09 pm
Now I have a wheel which can go round corners, and some splendid gore, having reopened my leg wound.

I walked back to Balham (keeping the front wheel in the air), and, thanks to British reserve, managed to get on a train I'm not supposed to.  Then just had to walk a mile home from the station without letting the front wheel down.

Thanks to the van driver, Chris, the two Irish women who offered me a lift around the corner from home, and the nurse who was concerned for me as I waited for this train. 

I've now put a dressing on, and hoping it will stay put.  And, yes, merely being sent sprawling on the deck will not put me off going off on a seekrit mishun. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 11 April, 2012, 09:07:50 pm
You were remarkably composed and good natured about the whole thing, I thought.  Sorry to see you post-off, but glad the damage appeared limited to knee and front wheel, and pleased to hear the rest of your journey was as pleasant as could be expected.

Haven't seen you on the CS7 for ages, so will mix up my times a bit in the hope of seeing you again soon.  Heal up!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 11 April, 2012, 10:35:48 pm
Decided to go on the CTC Wednesday night ride as I was too mentally frazzled from a poor night’s sleep to do much more at work. Saw a cyclist collide with a van - I think the van had overtaken then turned into a parking place, causing the cyclist to lock up. I asked the rider if he was ok. I think to be honest he didn’t have much road sense. He also came unclipped shortly after pulling off ahead of me just before the collision.

Went on the bike ride, and we did some extremely rough off-road on a public byway, and I punctured. I can’t find a hole in the tyre, I suspect it was a snake bite. We were a bit late to the pub as a result, so most of the food was off, but I was offered moussaka as an alternative, which was lovely, served with a nice green salad. I’ve cycled past that pub many times on my rural extended ride home from work, must visit them again.

General observation about the standard of driving in Cambridge at the moment: it sucks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 April, 2012, 12:55:55 am
I went to join Butterfly's commute.  I met her at Clapham Junction and stoked the tandem round the South Circular and over Kew Bridge into unknown lands.

But we returned from our quest unscarred (or no more scarred than when we set off) and in possession of a very very shiny new bike, which Butterfly rode home while I tailed along alone on the tandem.

Through Richmond Park in the dark was a joy and delight, with loads of deer to be spied in the gloom.  Surprisingly, we saw.five other cyclists in the park.

From there, it was a familiar winding ten miles home.  We passed a couple of places where the road was closed, and enjoyed being able to go past with bikes.

Home now.  Tired.  Happy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 12 April, 2012, 09:04:32 am
Caught up with a young fellow riding a Raleigh Routier in what looked to be very good condition, complete with suicide brake levers and what could very well have been the original handlebar tape. 

<oldfogey>
As good as crabon and all the other new-fangled materials are I still think steel frames with 1" (or thereabouts) tubes and that lovely rake on the forks just look so much, much more graceful.
</oldfogey>
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 12 April, 2012, 12:13:54 pm
Lovely ride today, really misty as i left which lifted all the way to finish in cracking sunshine  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 13 April, 2012, 07:14:24 am
A bit chilly this morning for shorts, virtually no traffic today, saw less than a dozen motors all the way  ???

I know I didn't post for a few weeks  but this thread seems to be getting a bit neglected
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 13 April, 2012, 07:47:31 am
Quote from: Si_Co on 13 April, 2012, 07:14:24 am
A bit chilly this morning for shorts, virtually no traffic today, saw less than a dozen motors all the way  ???

It's still the school holidays, isn't it, and the high price of petrol.

Quote
I know I didn't post for a few weeks  but this thread seems to be getting a bit neglected

See above (well, apart from the petrol bit), plus people taking advantage of the bank holiday to get a week for the price of 4 days Annual Leave.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 13 April, 2012, 08:03:20 am
doh  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 April, 2012, 08:51:24 am
Fortunately, I'm not in work this morning.  Here's a pic of my front wheel on the way to Corridori yesterday (by train, I should add):

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v326/ado15/IMAG0354.jpg)

Told you it could go round corners ;)

So what happened?  Simple, really.  I made a mistake, compounded by others.  Between Balham and Tooting Bec, there is a junction with three lanes.  One lane is for turning left, and two for going straight on.  The middle lane heads straight for the bus lane a short space the other side of the junction, while other traffic merges into one lane.  There's an occasional left hook into a side road just after the bus lane starts.

So I was in the middle lane.  The van in front of me (despite being in the straight on lane) indicated left, so, when we set off, I went round it.  That would have been fine, but there were other cyclists wanting to go straight ahead.  They were forcing their way through to the left of the left turning traffic :facepalm:

So the car in their lane pulled over to the right quite sharply, and the van driver in mine evaded that, pushing my saddlebag, and putting me on the deck.  Fortunately, it was low speed, so it all stopped, but I don't know how far I was into the right hand lane.

Here's my tribute to a well-known cyclist:  ;D

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v326/ado15/IMAG0356.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: seraphina on 13 April, 2012, 09:14:42 am
GWS clarion!

It's MADNESS out there this morning. I saw a whole 4 cyclists on my way in this morning, which is 4 more than normal. One guy was doing a public service and moving roadkill to the verge as well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 13 April, 2012, 10:31:26 pm
I got my moving average for the week up to 15.0 mph. Well chuffed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 14 April, 2012, 11:03:56 am
Eeps, bad luck Clarion. GWS.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 14 April, 2012, 11:09:58 am
Discovered two things on yesterday's commute:


Apart from that, it was a blast - might ride the Pugsley in on Monday, just because. Mwahahaha! :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 14 April, 2012, 10:02:16 pm
Let a bus driver out at Victoria today, and got a big thumbs up. Then I get home to my facebook account, and it was one of my mates - he posted on my timeline. CHUFFED!!!  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 15 April, 2012, 01:47:51 am
Six day full-house and my, didn't I meet some arseholes. I'm close to throwing my bike through the next idiot's windscreen.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 16 April, 2012, 09:20:09 am
Managed to have an eventful commute despite my 2.5 miles.

Saw a mother with one small child in a seat on the back of her bike, and one child riding his own alongside her. Thought that was very nice and shame you don’t see it more often.

Was overtaken by a woman on a Condor who looked back at me and then shouted ‘hey!’. At first I wondered what I had done to upset her; then I realised it was handbag (occasionally of this parish). She said she wasn’t used to seeing me not in cycling gear so ‘had to see my face’. Discovered we now work not far from each other.

As we chatted in the ASL waiting to turn right onto Albert Embankment, I became aware that the small white van behind us had joined us in the ASL and was less than two inches from handbag’s back wheel. The mother with the children was at the same ASL and said ‘That’s not very safe’. I turned around and pointed at the miniscule gap and said ‘That’s too close’. His response was to start waving his arms around and shouting something (dunno what, his windows were closed) but the tone of his gestures suggested that it was, indeed, all my fault that he was so close. He was surrounded by lots of cyclists in the ASL by this point but obviously as he drives his time is more valuable than our safety.

Then the lights changed. But, because he had his windows closed, he could not hear the siren that I could. So I waited to let it past. Iin his bubble he was seemingly unaware of the siren, and went mad leaning on his horn, presumably thinking I was blocking him to punish him.

Time was this would have made me really angry, but I just kind of expect it now and it washes over.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 16 April, 2012, 12:54:15 pm
I am back to house to station, train, station to work commute.  Two bikes have been destroyed this year so I am now commuting on my brother's 20 year old Dawes Galaxy. I swapped the saddle and pedals.   The bike seems to run well but something is rubbing when I brake.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 16 April, 2012, 12:57:22 pm
I had an 'interesting' moment this morning, though I have to confess that it was entirely self inflicted. 

It is quite disconcerting to find your handlebars suddenly at 45 degrees when you are travelling in a straight line.

Maybe next time I adjust my stem I should tighten the bolts afterwards  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 16 April, 2012, 01:24:34 pm
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 16 April, 2012, 12:54:15 pm
The bike seems to run well but something is rubbing when I brake.
I'm only an Electrical Engineer (i.e. not Mechanical), but my understanding is that brakes are meant to rub *somewhere*.  If they don't, losing kinetic energy is very much dependent on choice of gradient.

IGMC. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 16 April, 2012, 01:37:18 pm
In no particular order... bluebells, calves, cowslips, frost, hares, rabbits, yellowhammers,  fuckwit driver in silver panel van,  lovely sunrise, skylarks, donkeys, lambs.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: welshwheels on 16 April, 2012, 08:50:13 pm
cold this morning !!! and a bloody headwind on way home  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Frere on 16 April, 2012, 08:52:23 pm
Quote from: welshwheels on 16 April, 2012, 08:50:13 pm
cold this morning !!! and a bloody headwind on way home  :facepalm:

same :)

Frere
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 17 April, 2012, 07:19:04 am
Sneaky headwind to work yesterday followed by a midday turnaround and headwind home. Was still better than sitting in the car though :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 17 April, 2012, 07:28:21 am
sorry everyone, its my first morning riding in from cat sitting at my sisters (no convenient train) so sods law it rained.

Not heavily just that consistent rain that shows that the 3 year old Lidl jacket is no longer water proof.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 17 April, 2012, 08:25:30 am
I had a great tailwind today :). It didn't start raining until I was locking up, so that was ok 8).

zooooooooom!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 April, 2012, 08:32:47 am
yay!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 17 April, 2012, 09:09:21 am
Wind, driving rain, more ruddy wind, even more wind, damn cold, no hot water again, someone remind me why I do this.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 17 April, 2012, 09:37:21 am
Really don't like rain...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 17 April, 2012, 10:26:06 am
Quote from: Si_Co on 17 April, 2012, 09:09:21 am
Wind, driving rain, more ruddy wind, even more wind, damn cold, no hot water again, someone remind me why I do this.
The alternative is driving.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 17 April, 2012, 10:45:15 am
Quote from: TheLurker on 17 April, 2012, 10:26:06 am
Quote from: Si_Co on 17 April, 2012, 09:09:21 am
Wind, driving rain, more ruddy wind, even more wind, damn cold, no hot water again, someone remind me why I do this.
The alternative is driving.
and some days you go zoooom! :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 17 April, 2012, 03:30:05 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 17 April, 2012, 10:26:06 am
Quote from: Si_Co on 17 April, 2012, 09:09:21 am
Wind, driving rain, more ruddy wind, even more wind, damn cold, no hot water again, someone remind me why I do this.
The alternative is driving.

Ah....... that's the one, don't wanna go back in the box
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 17 April, 2012, 05:18:37 pm
Just a few spots of rain on my very early commute in.  And a tail wind.  Plus loads of other cyclists.  That was a surprise.  At 6.30, I have been lucky to see just one or two before now.  I tried to smile at a couple as we waited at the Peckham Rye lights.  No response, both staring straight ahead, although another answered my good morning down Rye Lane as I passed and shared a brief conversation at the next set of lights about the best route to London Bridge.  He didn't know there was an alternative quiet road route to the Surrey Canal path if you don't like sharing that route with pedestrians and said he would try it. 
       I don't normally get that bothered about the less than excellent behaviour of other cyclists.  I haven't always been that well behaved myself and don't see it as my job to police the behaviour of others.  But this morning, on Queens Rd, I made an exception.  A guy zipped past me at the pedestrian crossing,  lights on red for us,  on my left, oh well, it happens.  However, on this occasion an eldery lady with one of those big shopping trolleys, the tall, tartan cuboid kind in a metal frame, was just attempting to cross the road. He  had to swerve to avoid her trolley, and caused her to wobble a bit and stop.  She was OK, but it really annoyed me.  Maybe because, another ten years or so and that could be me, humpback, hairy moles and all.  So I  caught him up at the next lights which he was unable to jump and gave him a piece of my mind.  One mad old lady standing up for another.  We have to stick together you know.
    Oh, and the speed indicator on Cheltenham Rd.  22 mph today.  But, I guess there was a little help from the tail wind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: welshwheels on 17 April, 2012, 06:32:26 pm
awesome tailwind this morning  :thumbsup: :thumbsup: bugger of a headwind tonight ggrrr  still better than driving  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 17 April, 2012, 06:49:56 pm
I rode in at about 7.30 and got a good soaking.  KIKt has just about dried out and I'm wondering if it's safe to go home yet  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 17 April, 2012, 08:23:14 pm
There is no feeling in the world that is quite like putting on cold wet lycra.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 17 April, 2012, 08:23:48 pm
Quote from: jane on 17 April, 2012, 05:18:37 pm
One mad old lady standing up for another.

Careful - that ways lies decency.

 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: plum on 17 April, 2012, 08:59:49 pm
Thank god back on my bike after a month off, even pouring rain couldn't dent the enjoyment of the ride in. The novelty soon wore off though, wind on the way home sucked.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 18 April, 2012, 08:27:21 am
Left work at 6pm got drenched after leaving the supermarket where I picked up additional supplies for the week.

This morning I deployed the sure fire way of ensure the rain backs off and the wind picks up:





A Cape.

And yes it worked.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 18 April, 2012, 09:07:10 am
That was damp. But fun :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 18 April, 2012, 09:13:58 am
Wet this morning.

I felt smug leaving work last night that I had the car as it was peeing down. I did not feel quite so smug 45 mins later standing at the start of my time trial in thunder, lightning and hail!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 18 April, 2012, 12:39:21 pm
Quote from: plum on 17 April, 2012, 08:59:49 pm
Thank god back on my bike after a month off, even pouring rain couldn't dent the enjoyment of the ride in. The novelty soon wore off though, wind on the way home sucked.

How unusual - normally it does the opposite  ;D

Yes, I know, coat on hook by door. Bye.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 18 April, 2012, 01:06:03 pm
Much better today, still a head winfd though
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 18 April, 2012, 05:45:01 pm
What a difference a day makes.  Yesterday morning, even at my early commute hour, too many cyclists to count on fingers and toes.  This morning, just 3.  I felt lonely. And a bit soggy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 19 April, 2012, 01:54:49 am
On the way into work, it was very fast with a tail wind, slightly damp but not enough to bother me.

On the way home, I went via B&Q, but was accosted by a kid who wanted to borrow my phone to call his dad, so I didn’t have time to get everything I wanted before I had to leave.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 19 April, 2012, 08:14:31 am
What a difference a day makes, I only got rained on for a third of the journey home yesterday.

and this mornings comute was almost all in the dry.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 19 April, 2012, 09:11:06 am
A pleasant ride this morning right up until 1/2 mile from work when a muppet in a LHD irish plated w@nkp@nzer had not one but two go's at leaving a coat of paint on me, the second time right behind a copper who took exception and decided to have a word  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 19 April, 2012, 09:34:59 am
Bloody 'orrible ride in this morning.

Was not raining when I left, but it started within the first mile.   Got heavier and heavier, and when I got to Banchory 10 miles in, I decided to bale out and return home and take the car.   Got 1 mile back towards home when the rain suddenly stopped, so I decided to continue the ride.

Got to the top of the hill to be greeted with a hailstorm on the descent.
On-and-off rain the remainder of the way in.

Hope it clears up a bit for the ride home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 19 April, 2012, 12:50:23 pm
Riding towards work, I'm overhauled by a cyclist.

"Hello Simon, long time no see!"

:)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 19 April, 2012, 01:17:19 pm
Pretty uneventful today except for the dozy woman merging onto the roundabout who didn't see me. I knew she hadn't seen me, she looked at the junction before hers rather than on the roundabout itself.

I had plenty of time to stop. She saw me at the last minute and skidded to a flustered halt right in front of me.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 19 April, 2012, 01:54:15 pm
While waiting in an ASL, at a T-junction where almost every vehicle turns right,  with another cyclist to my left, when a large motorbike pulls in between us. Lights change, both cyclists move forward, large motorbike decides to make unsignalled left turn across front wheel of other rider.  I have to say he was more polite than I would have been.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 19 April, 2012, 07:54:20 pm
Hells teeth, that was a hard ride home tonight.  Hard, hard, hard.

I've no idea why.   Just struggled the whole way.  Sore knees from the get-go, seemed to have no reserves of strength at all.  Bonked 30 miles in, had to stop to re-charge.  Slow as a slow thing.

Bah.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 20 April, 2012, 10:02:32 am
Just glad to be back on the bike for a change.
Working away from base has serious disadvantages.


S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 20 April, 2012, 05:45:04 pm
...and coming home, my timing was suboptimal.  We've had heavy showers all day (i got damp enough on my lunchtime ride) but the first thunder and hail was while I was riding home.  Scary and ouch!

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 20 April, 2012, 05:55:08 pm
At the top of Prince of Wales Road , coasting downhill, a bloke in a hi-vis vest pops up at one of those telephone junction boxes, the doors open like a screen. I glance at him, and he whips a camera up and takes a photo of a bloke opposite. I was in the moving traffic then and couldn't slow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 22 April, 2012, 10:33:30 am
Quote from: Feanor on 19 April, 2012, 07:54:20 pm
Hells teeth, that was a hard ride home tonight.  Hard, hard, hard.

I've no idea why.   Just struggled the whole way.  Sore knees from the get-go, seemed to have no reserves of strength at all.  Bonked 30 miles in, had to stop to re-charge.  Slow as a slow thing.

Bah.

How long is your commute?  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 22 April, 2012, 01:50:50 pm
IIRC about 40 miles
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 22 April, 2012, 04:39:51 pm
Yep, here it is in the usual variation:

Ride home, including a 17:25 climb up the Cairn  :)
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/176445955

Ride in:
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/176445965


( Assuming that like link works, I've only just started using the Garmin Connect thing. )

Edit: no, my street-jargon is not up-to-standard.
I even get abuse at home if I say 'Nom'.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 22 April, 2012, 06:46:26 pm
Quote from: Feanor on 22 April, 2012, 04:39:51 pm

( Assuming that like works, I've only just started using the Garmin Connect thing. )
Have you been hanging out wiv da kidz?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 23 April, 2012, 12:00:42 am
Quote from: Feanor on 22 April, 2012, 04:39:51 pm
Yep, here it is in the usual variation:

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/166548537

( Assuming that like link works, I've only just started using the Garmin Connect thing. )

Edit: no, my street-jargon is not up-to-standard.
I even get abuse at home if I say 'Nom'.

*looks at profile*

 :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 23 April, 2012, 09:50:34 am
This week I am mostly commuting from Camberwell to Nutfield. 20 miles of A235 and A23 goodness. Took me 75 minutes this morning. Can push that much closer to 60. Lovely.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 23 April, 2012, 10:08:50 am
Quote from: simonp on 23 April, 2012, 12:00:42 am
Quote from: Feanor on 22 April, 2012, 04:39:51 pm
Yep, here it is in the usual variation:

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/166548537

( Assuming that like link works, I've only just started using the Garmin Connect thing. )

Edit: no, my street-jargon is not up-to-standard.
I even get abuse at home if I say 'Nom'.

*looks at profile*

 :o

At least it's mostly flat eh?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 April, 2012, 10:13:01 am
I had a great commute in (my first for over a week).  A few 'cosy' overtakes and a short stop to play Bingo with a driver.

I was overtaking her car when she flung the door open, and I told her it was stupid and illegal.  She said 'What?', and I told her about the chap killed in Bromley.

'I did see you.'  No Score
'I'm a cyclist.' One Point
'There was plenty of space.' One Point
'Well, I didn't hit you.' One Point
'And you should be wearing a helmet.' One Point

Not a full house, then, since she apparently saw me before flinging her door open, not noticing the oncoming traffic or the cars following me, both of which she denied were there, despite their all too solid existence at the red traffic light a bit further on.  But an impressive score for a short exchange of views.

Oh - and she was driving an Audi.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 23 April, 2012, 10:14:22 am
Roadsafe her mate.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 April, 2012, 10:17:22 am
I forgot to take her number :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 23 April, 2012, 11:01:23 am
Riding along Green End Rd (Cambridge) towards Milton Road, a car overtakes me a bit close, as there was oncoming traffic. Typical occurrence. The lights stayed green long enough for them to continue straight over Milton Road, I stopped as they'd turned to red. As I pulled up I heard the sound of tyres squealing on tarmac, and looked up to see same car now on the wrong side of the road on the far side of the junction (on Kings Hedges Road) and swerving back to the left hand side of the road in a cloud of tyre smoke.

I've no idea what happened to cause that - there was nothing they were avoiding on the LHS that I could see. It seems most likely that it was just a random loss of control. Which is a bit scary given how close they passed!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 23 April, 2012, 11:37:56 am
Quote from: simonp on 23 April, 2012, 12:00:42 am
Quote from: Feanor on 22 April, 2012, 04:39:51 pm
Yep, here it is in the usual variation:

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/166548537

( Assuming that like link works, I've only just started using the Garmin Connect thing. )

Edit: no, my street-jargon is not up-to-standard.
I even get abuse at home if I say 'Nom'.

*looks at profile*

 :o

Crikey. I make that pointy bit an average of 8.5% for two miles. Impressive.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: plum on 23 April, 2012, 06:08:47 pm
Quote from: clarion on 23 April, 2012, 10:13:01 am
I was overtaking her car when she flung the door open, and I told her it was stupid and illegal.  She said 'What?', and I told her about the chap killed in Bromley.
Don't get me wrong I know how stupid the woman is, but just for a point of clarification. If I open my car door and another car collides and rips it off, my understanding is that the insurance claim would automatically go in my favour because the other vehicle is required to allow space when overtaking. Just as rearending someone is always a losing claim because it means you were driving too close. So my question is, when a cyclist gets doored is it automatically considered to be his fault for not leaving enough space?

And speaking of rearended. Some chump had the gall to clatter me up the rear end this morning. Big fuckoff island by the Mosque at Golden Hillock. 12 entry/exit lanes this island has including the dual carriageways and some lowlife knocks me sprawling on the floor in the middle of the chaos that is the 8am rush hour. I was not amused. Rear wheel's in the shop now getting trued but I couldn't get a time for someone to give the frame a thorough check.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 23 April, 2012, 06:13:10 pm
Quote from: plum on 23 April, 2012, 06:08:47 pm
Don't get me wrong I know how stupid the woman is, but just for a point of clarification. If I open my car door and another car collides and rips it off, my understanding is that the insurance claim would automatically go in my favour because the other vehicle is required to allow space when overtaking. Just as rearending someone is always a losing claim because it means you were driving too close. So my question is, when a cyclist gets doored is it automatically considered to be his fault for not leaving enough space?


Incorrect - you/your insurance will be paying for the damage you caused to their car.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 23 April, 2012, 06:17:02 pm
It's an offence to hit anyone with your car door, see highway code rule 239.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: plum on 23 April, 2012, 06:52:02 pm
Cool.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 23 April, 2012, 07:16:27 pm
Quote from: itsbruce on 23 April, 2012, 09:50:34 am
This week I am mostly commuting from Camberwell to Nutfield. 20 miles of A235 and A23 goodness. Took me 75 minutes this morning. Can push that much closer to 60. Lovely.

66 minutes for the ride back. I can definitely get that under an hour
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 April, 2012, 07:36:06 pm
My commute happened by two sections of Richmond Park today. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 23 April, 2012, 08:55:03 pm
Bleh. The commute home today was really rather tough. Achilles tendon playing up and my left thigh felt (and feels) rather sore.

Lucked out with the weather though. Raining practically all day (started about an hour after I got to work) and it stopped about ten minutes before the ride home. I even saw some blue sky and sunshine. Was nice as I'd resigned myself to getting really rather wet.  :thumbsup:

Gotta sort my bikefit out, tired of getting sore neck and arms. And knees. And bum.

ETA Still beat driving in though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 23 April, 2012, 10:11:28 pm
Hadn't been out for 8 days.  Longest off the bike this year.  Nothing special, just the way work meetings and family commitments fell.  So did interval training on the way back in the rain, with two big panniers  ;D.  Got up the hill to Brocas Lands in the biggest gear so far and went so fast I had to slow down on the top corner  ;D ;D.  Got to stop doing such silly things and do something more sensible like finishing a 200k Audax before lunch.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bloomers100 on 24 April, 2012, 08:56:25 am
Decided that the weather wouldn't stop me riding today after a week off the bike, I was starting to feel like I'd never ride again. Performed a good time on the Steamroller, stopped to take the Paclite shell off as it wasn't raining that hard. Kit nice and dry in the full Camper Longflap.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 24 April, 2012, 09:09:38 am
Whereaboots is Donkey Hill please. Tried looking, and got Donkey Mews in Brighton.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 24 April, 2012, 09:31:12 am
Quote from: Riggers on 24 April, 2012, 09:09:38 am
Whereaboots is Donkey Hill please. Tried looking, and got Donkey Mews in Brighton.

I knew Brighton was strange, but any fule kno that Donkey bray, Kitteh mews
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 24 April, 2012, 09:51:23 am
You bloody fool. I'm looking around for a stick and can't find one!  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 24 April, 2012, 10:13:19 am
Had a very sociable commute this morning, met up with Paul on his F Moser steel steed at Aldgate to TCR and picked up with another occasional acquaintance around Notting Hill to Acton. Most unusual and pleasantly chatty.

(and, hello to Paul if you are dropping by)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 24 April, 2012, 10:21:07 am
Not commuted by bike forabout a week (again) >:(

This became apparent on Sunday morning when, whilst out for a jolly on my Sunday Best 'Dale, whilst ascending Kingston Hill from Chinnor to Stokenchurch, I had to get off and walk :-[

Lungs trying to escape and a HR @ 184 bpm suggests I have lost a little bit more form :'(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 24 April, 2012, 10:23:27 am
Quote from: Riggers on 24 April, 2012, 09:51:23 am
You bloody fool. I'm looking around for a stick and can't find one!  ::-)

You remind me of Stevenson ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 24 April, 2012, 10:25:37 am
It was a bit of a grind into the damp headwind this morning but it was pleasing to note that I seem to have got the saddle right after iterative fettling.

I had just one annoying incident as I crossed Waterloo Bridge: there was some twunt on a racer (and yes, while I am suspicious of sterotypes, he was all fluoro'd, humped and magic hatted up for mortal strava kombat) right on my back wheel.  It's a a stretch of road where you do need the ability to jink sideways for potholes and hire bikes and such like, so I was not comfortable with him being there. I tried the rearward glare but he stayed there, so I gave the pedals a bit of backward pressure.  He stayed put until I did it again.  he passed, shaking his head very disapprovingly.


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 24 April, 2012, 11:14:39 am
Quote from: bloomers100 on 24 April, 2012, 08:56:25 am
Decided that the weather wouldn't stop me riding today after a week off the bike, I was starting to feel like I'd never ride again.

Makes you feel good, doesn't it? I've been off work for two weeks, which ironically has curtailed my cycling opportunities (it really ought to be the other way round) so I've almost (almost!) been glad to be back at work this week, just to get back on the bike regularly - even in this Weather (rain and stiff headwind this morning).

Another thing that made me smile was when I got to Bromley Sth last night and a Yoof on the platform, in a laconic drawl, described my bike as "Well bangin'!"

I'm assuming this is a good thing for a bike to be.  ;D

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 24 April, 2012, 11:16:12 am
Not sure.  My bike was bangin the other day, and bent a wheel and the handlebars. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 24 April, 2012, 11:36:00 am
Quote from: yellowhammer on 24 April, 2012, 11:26:05 am
Quote from: Riggers on 24 April, 2012, 09:09:38 am
Whereaboots is Donkey Hill please. Tried looking, and got Donkey Mews in Brighton.

It's in Strood, in Medway, and it joins commisioner's Road with Parsonage Lane; http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?hl=en&q=%22donkey%20hill%22%20strood&gbv=2&um=1&ie=UTF-8&sa=N&tab=wl Donkey Hill is the local name, I dunno if it's an official name or not. It's really short, but steep and actually slightly concave, making the top bit especially character building. It's a very minor achievment in the greater scheme of things but it pleased me very much. ;D
Do you mean The Path of Deth  which comes out opposite Wingrove Drive?
It's too steep for me to cycle up, because I cannot get in one revolution of the pedals in order to clip in my other foot, and too steep to cycle down as by the time I reach the end my hands are killing me from applying the brakes.
The late, and great,  Barry Mason used to lead his Whitstable group rides that way :o
The last time I was at the top, I was in the company of His Leggship, we watched as a woman was about to begin her descent.
Nothing unusual in that other than she was pushing a wheelchair with an occupant in it  :o :o :o.
We didn't hang around to see how she fared, choosing instead to go through the graveyard.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 24 April, 2012, 12:28:24 pm
Based on the principle that a picture paints a thousand words...

(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k170/smutchin/donkeyhill.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 24 April, 2012, 01:20:44 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 24 April, 2012, 12:28:24 pm
Based on the principle that a picture paints a thousand words...

(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k170/smutchin/donkeyhill.jpg)

Yebutt 25 metres to the east of where your pic was taken is this:
(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7090/6963208486_9d6814c315_b.jpg)
I don't know of too many hills where the advice to cyclists is to dismount. On the way up!!  :o

EDIT: Cycling to catch the train from Rochester this evening then, are you?  ;)
Take care coming down there, if you are.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 24 April, 2012, 07:38:13 pm
At times I marvel that humanity hasn't wiped itself from the face of the earth.  After today's commute I could easily be convinced to make a good start at said extermination.  >:(

Anyway... Last few rides have been sans musical accompaniment.  With my ears free of distraction I have noticed that allboth of my bikes creak, click and clunk to varying degrees.  Guess I should do some fettling some time soon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dibdib on 24 April, 2012, 07:44:39 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 24 April, 2012, 01:20:44 pm
I don't know of too many hills where the advice to cyclists is to dismount. On the way up!!  :o

I only know of one...

http://g.co/maps/vt2jg

At the foot of a climb with a semi-blind left-hand bend, a narrow pavement and on a 60mph road. Most of the cyclists I've seen there (mostly BSO riders heading to/from work at the Safari Park) just ride on the pavement.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 24 April, 2012, 08:18:44 pm
Meanwhile, here's one (http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?q=Inverkeithing&hl=en&ll=52.375599,-2.285156&spn=80.452956,133.945313&sll=56.021749,-3.395634&sspn=0.035353,0.065403&oq=inverk&hnear=Inverkeithing,+Fife,+United+Kingdom&t=h&z=3&layer=c&cbll=56.015641,-3.403978&panoid=csTtVT50jgfTai67m-1uLA&cbp=13,153.26,,0,4.25) that really ought to advise cyclists to dismount.

Northern approach to the cycle path on the western side of the Forth Road Bridge:  The cycle route leads you round some minor roads then up this path to join the bridge.  Just as it disappears round a corner into the bushes, the gradient becomes something like 1:4 for a short distance.  If you're quick, you can get your loaded touring recumbent into the granny ring before you hit the steep bit and winch your way to the top without stopping.  If you're not quick, or there's someone coming the other way, or whatever, you're going to attempt to defy gravity for a fraction of a second, then have the mother of all clipless moments.

(DAHIKT)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 24 April, 2012, 09:10:23 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 24 April, 2012, 07:38:13 pm
Anyway... Last few rides have been sans musical accompaniment.  With my ears free of distraction I have noticed that allboth of my bikes creak, click and clunk to varying degrees.  Guess I should do some fettling some time soon.

Not your knees, then?  :P

*Do you hear that Mr Anderson Andrij?
That is the sound of inevitability.....*  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 24 April, 2012, 09:42:43 pm
I should have known when the man ran into the road.

I moved out to avoid him, but he kept changing his path to remain on collision course with me.  I did manage to avoid him, I'm pleased to say.

I also missed the minicab who left-hooked me as we descended Upper Tooting Road. Just.  Yes, I should expect it there, but there wasn't a lot I could do about such mindblowingly bad driving.  I stopped, as did he, and I photographed his VRN and cab licence sticker.  Hope they've come out.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v326/ado15/IMAG0384.jpg)

Yes.  Yes, they have.

Well, at least that was my fair share of numpties trying to knock me off for one evening.

Oh no.  No, it wasn't.  I was riding out of Tooting, and a vehicle was half in the cycle lane (dashed line, not solid, but I was there).  I conversed with the driver, who seemed to want to express something strongly, but kept his window shut.  Then he drove his car at me.  I folded back his wing mirror to give me more clearance if he did it again.  He was cross.

He was a 'self-employed' Addison Lee fuckwit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 25 April, 2012, 08:49:18 am
This morning, it was raining- hard :-\

Who cares- this morning I was riding ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 25 April, 2012, 08:51:49 am
I got in to work, on dry roads, just before the rain storm hit.  Staying indoors for the forseeable.  (Except when the food van arrives, obv.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 April, 2012, 09:24:12 am
Wet & Windy.  Too many motons.  Too many over-cosy overtakes.  One berk who thought he should overtake in roadworks.  One berk who couldn't read a give way sign.

But it was a fun ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 25 April, 2012, 09:41:49 am
Quote from: clarion on 25 April, 2012, 09:24:12 am
Wet & Windy.  Too many motons.  Too many over-cosy overtakes.  One berk who thought he should overtake in roadworks.  One berk who couldn't read a give way sign.

But it was a fun ride.

Y'know - I sometimes I find rural/semi-rural living a Bit Dull, and that living in the city (like I used to) might be better. But every time that happens, you're there to cure me of it Clarion  :thumbsup:.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 April, 2012, 09:56:32 am
But, like I say, it was a fun ride. :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 25 April, 2012, 10:05:44 am
Quote from: clarion on 25 April, 2012, 09:56:32 am
But, like I say, it was a fun ride. :D

Yeah - but you're a "glass is half full" kinda guy, whereas I...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 April, 2012, 10:07:25 am
..just refill the glass and have another drink? ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 25 April, 2012, 10:08:02 am
Quote from: clarion on 25 April, 2012, 10:07:25 am
..just refill the glass and have another drink? ;D

Well, duh...  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 25 April, 2012, 10:31:21 am
Quote from: clarion on 25 April, 2012, 09:24:12 am
Wet & Windy.  Too many motons.  Too many over-cosy overtakes.  One berk who thought he should overtake in roadworks.  One berk who couldn't read a give way sign.

But it was a fun ride.

This about sums it up for me too. What is it with people driving less carefully when conditions are bad, rather than more carefully as they ought?

Anyway, I did the longer rural commute this morning, so at least I didn't have to deal with London traffic*, and although it was cold, windy and had started raining within 15 minutes of me leaving the house, I very much enjoyed the ride - I have a couple of opportunities to bail out on my route and get the train, but I couldn't bring myself to do it.

I've also finally found a use for the Metro - something to put down on the train seat to stop it getting wet and muddy when you sit down. (Note to self: get round to repairing your broken mudguards some time soon, eh?)

And hallelujah, there was plentiful hot water in the showers when I got to work, which hasn't always been the case recently. I think a cold shower would have been enough to bring me to tears this morning.

Hopefully, I'll get the feeling back in my toes by lunchtime. (Another note to self: get some new overshoes some time soon, eh?)

d.

*A mixed blessing - rural motorists are often much more of a menace.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 25 April, 2012, 10:51:47 am
a mum carrying her offspring almost gave me a hugh with the wings of her transport. yes I was trying to avoid a slippery metal plate on the road, and saw you coming from behind me, and am sure you saw me indicate too, so why did you stay so close to the kerb you silly cow?
Anyways I tried to have a polite word at the traffic light 50 m ahead, but she ignored me completely then after a few gentle knocks at her window, acknowledged my existence but refused to open the window and kept talking as if I could hear her, making wobble arm movements (which I interprated as that wobbling should not be tolerated).

The rest of the trip was peaceful, making the most of thee lee valley path while its still open around the olympic site. There seems to be less flints on the ground around there and the limehouse cut than along regents canal resulting in less punctures.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 25 April, 2012, 10:56:52 am
Quote from: clarion on 25 April, 2012, 09:24:12 am
Wet & Windy.  Too many motons.  Too many over-cosy overtakes.  One berk who thought he should overtake in roadworks.  One berk who couldn't read a give way sign.

But it was a fun ride.

Is that along Clapham Common South Side?  I was heartened to see signs on the approach telling drivers specifically not to overtake cyclists in the roadworks.  Your berk plus my berk (scooter rider trying to edge past on my nearside - I flapped wildly at him) equals need for a bigger sign.  Or an armed regular police force.

Went The Other Way (Chelsea Bridge, Parliament Square) today which is a study in CyclistSafety = f(nCyclists) in contrast to CS7.

Oh, and something I forgot to document from Monday.  I saw a crash!  Guy in front of me is steaming along in the inside of stationary traffic on Balham High Street (protected by magic blue paint).  Passes a van next to a non-working pedestrian crossing.  Woman emerges at a canter from in front of the van, and KERPOWW!  Cyclist up in the air.  Woman felled.  I stop and as they struggle back to their respective vertical forms, there's much sorrying and are-you-alrighting.  Before I've dug out a pen and a bit of paper, they've shaken hands and he's back on his bike.  I pottered for a moment with the cyclist to ask if he was really alright, and after a bit of single file, I turn, and he's gone.  Waited for a bit outside Clapham South Tube, but nada.  Mysterious and shocking all in one.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 April, 2012, 11:02:36 am
No , my overtaking berk was where the traffic goes the wrong side of the Camberwell Submarine.  Dick of a BOC truck.  And the other berk was at roadworks near Walworth Rd.

Glad you were there to help after the collision, even if they didn't think it was needed.  That crossing is vital to Balham, and it is ridiculously dangerous for it to have been out for so long.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Bairn Again on 25 April, 2012, 12:09:24 pm
My commuting bike (1993 Dawes Galaxy) had a puncture when I went to get it out the garage this morning so commandeered daughter #1s ridgeback comet and put the saddle up. 

It was very enjoyable sitting upright for a change!  Not slow either.       
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 25 April, 2012, 12:25:16 pm
Quote from: Chris L on 25 April, 2012, 10:56:52 am

Is that along Clapham Common South Side?  I was heartened to see signs on the approach telling drivers specifically not to overtake cyclists in the roadworks.

They don’t pay much attention to those signs, I discovered on my way to get my hair cut in Balham last week.

On the way there, the wind was against me (headwinds are a bugger on the sit-up bike) and I was crawling along what felt like painfully slowly and hence not brave enough to block drivers completely. They weren’t the worst close passes I’ve had by a long shot, though

On the way back the wind was behind me and I was faster and more able to keep up with the traffic (plus lighter for loss of hair!!), so I took the lane and kept up and no-one got angsty.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 25 April, 2012, 01:00:32 pm
Wet n windy!  Don't mind the wet but hate it when it's windy (I get blown about far too much) + the zip on my overshoes has borked  :( 
Just bought some new ones & ended up buying a new chain & 2 new pro 3 tyres too  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 25 April, 2012, 01:23:02 pm
It has just started monsooning out there. Hoping it at least eases off slightly before going home time...

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 25 April, 2012, 01:41:35 pm
started a CPU-intensive batch job on the PC that's currently drying my shoes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 25 April, 2012, 02:14:05 pm
My biggest complaint is unreliable wired cateye speedo. Cateye seem to have designed a mount that acts as a rain scoop.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 25 April, 2012, 02:54:13 pm
Last night I had some amusement on the way home. Coming up to crossing Vallance Road, slowed down for the junction almost stopped, a youngish bloke appears on my right running full pelt for a bus (on my left) with no awareness of his surroundings. A loud Whoa! from me meant that he only ran over my foot instead of into me. Pedestrians, pah. Dangerous aren't they ? ;)

He missed his bus
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 April, 2012, 07:20:56 pm
Well, that was somewhat challenging.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: welshwheels on 25 April, 2012, 08:02:16 pm
^^^^+1 hailstones and 50mph gusts this morning and pissing down rain this afternoon  !!! The chap on the scooter looked across at me crossing loughour bridge and must have thought look at that idiot out on a bike in this weather !! Little did he know I was thinking look at that idiot on a scooter lol ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 25 April, 2012, 10:30:21 pm
Quote from: welshwheels on 25 April, 2012, 08:02:16 pm
^^^^+1 hailstones and 50mph gusts this morning and pissing down rain this afternoon  !!! The chap on the scooter looked across at me crossing loughour bridge and must have thought look at that idiot out on a bike in this weather !! Little did he know I was thinking look at that idiot on a scooter lol ;D

Reminds me of all those time when London was crippled by snow but I got to work as usual.  People arriving at 10, 10.30, 11 and saying: you cycled to work in this snow?  You must be mad!

But who was in at the usual time. And who got home on time?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 26 April, 2012, 12:11:25 am
Wow.  Got wet today.  20 miles each way is my commute this week and today it was sodden in both directions.  Still, loving it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 26 April, 2012, 10:28:51 am
Quiz: if a car ahead of you is signalling left and slowing down, you should expect it to:
a) turn left
b) turn right
c) stop dead
d) any of the above

The answer is d, of course. What actually happened this morning is that I was just about to start overtaking it when it cut across the road to take a right turn.

Good ride apart from that. Mad traffic through Beckenham, Penge and Lambeth due to various roadworks, so I had the warm glow of satisfaction of passing hundreds of queuing cars, which is probably why I didn't care in the slightest when it started pissing down at Crystal Palace and only got heavier for the rest of the ride.  ;D

Also I passed 3,000km for the year to date on my way in this morning.  :thumbsup:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 April, 2012, 10:30:39 am
It was a good commute.  Barely got rained on.  Motons behaving better, though there was one who pulled out onto a RAB in front of me.  I think he was planning to wake up when he got to work or summat. ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 26 April, 2012, 11:38:45 am
I came up behind a car waiting at the lights, I moved into the right turn lane to turn right. The lights change, the car signals right and immediately does a 3 point turn at the junction, right in front of me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 26 April, 2012, 11:56:12 am
I got damp on the way home yesterday. I didn't on the way in this morning.

First time in a few months that I have doen more than 3 consecutive commute legs by bike :-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: slohill on 26 April, 2012, 12:35:59 pm
Commuted 30k to the local cycling cafe and then 12k back home this morning.  For the retired cyclist, the cafe happily replaces the former workplace.
In spite of dire weather forecast, got wet until 5 k from cafe when rain relented and got me home in the dry.  Very lucky as it is pouring down now.
Now working on my petition for double time pensions for weekend and bank holidays.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 26 April, 2012, 09:14:03 pm
I bottled out for the last couple of days, on account of having to fly to Scotland on Tuesday morning at silly'o'clock, and being knackered on Wednesday (and the weather).
Rode in today though.
This morning was a bit of a slog, but on the way home I made it past 30mph for the first time  8)

Oh, and Monday was a challenge. At the end of my street, I realised that my freewheel was stuck., but I just soldiered on in a semi-fixie style for the ten miles to work and another ten home. Not a problem really, once I'd sussed the technique. Bought a giant can of spray teflon lube from the LBS on the way home (bargain at £3), and gave it a good flush through, working perfectly again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 April, 2012, 09:32:56 pm
Oh that's unfortunate, YH.  Hope you heal soon.  Well done for protecting the snake ;D

Wind was ridiculous on the way home :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 26 April, 2012, 11:09:53 pm
Hard to communicate how much I am enjoying a 20 mile each-way commute.  It seems to give me more energy - in the evenings, when I head off to meet friends or whatever, I find I have great legs for a sprint.  Really going to miss it when this contract ends.  Now have it down to under an hour each way, also.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 26 April, 2012, 11:24:14 pm
Yes, that's what I find too.

People often ask if a long commute does not leave me so knackered I'm not fit for anything, either at work, or back home.

And the answer is no.

At work, I arrive with a positive buzz, which I never have when I drive in.   And when I get back home, yes, I'm tired, but in a good way.   And any work-related crap is well-erased from my brane.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 26 April, 2012, 11:33:08 pm
And another. Although I have to say (saving yer grace, Feanor) that I found 27 miles each way I was doing last year that little bit too long for a full 5 days, especially with the uber-urban nature of my journey, 3 days was perfect. I suspect I may not have been drinking enough monkey gland over the  years, anyone that suggests there have been just too many years is just rude. My present journey is  just fun, and really sets me up for the day. And as you say, work gets left at work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 27 April, 2012, 05:59:55 am
Quote from: clarion on 26 April, 2012, 09:32:56 pm
Wind was ridiculous on the way home :(
Wasn't it just. I coped fine with it until Peckham Rye.  Just after lights at the Nunhead Lane junction the Rye sweeps up south westwards, a wide open sward of green.  There's a line of trees as a wind break, but there is a large gap at the bottom of the Rye.  As I crossed the junction a massive gust swept across and actually moved me sideways, gutter wards. I was expecting something of the kind as this always happens here in high winds, so managed to stay riding and upright.  I think the car behind me interpreted my surrender of primary as me indicating it was Ok to squeeze past, where there isn't enough room for a comfortable, safe pass (hence my choice of primary for the first few yards here).
  Which made me wonder about modern cars.  I haven't driven a car for about 25 years, but when I did, I remember being quite aware of wind, even inside the vehicle. One work minibus, a tinny old Ford, rattled
like anything if it was windy outside. And you could really feel the difference driving it on a windy day.   Are modern cars so designed now that one is totally insulated from the effects of wind?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 27 April, 2012, 06:07:23 am
Quote from: jane on 27 April, 2012, 05:59:55 am
Are modern cars so designed now that one is totally insulated from the effects of wind?

They're almost certainly more aerodynamic than the 'bricks' of 25 yrs ago.
Totally insulated?
Probably not.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 27 April, 2012, 01:06:22 pm
The wind on the ride home yesterday arvo was 'entertaining' to say the least. At one point whilst cycling into it, a gust nearly brought me to a standstill whilst, to the opposite extreme, the wind assisted ride up Marlow High Street meant I got to the top 30 seconds before I left the start ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 27 April, 2012, 01:13:43 pm
On my way through Dulwich yesterday evening, a not insubstantial branch fell from a tree and narrowly missed landing on my head. Almost enough to make me wish I wore a [CUT! - Teh Moderatorz]

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 27 April, 2012, 01:55:56 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 27 April, 2012, 06:07:23 am
Quote from: jane on 27 April, 2012, 05:59:55 am
Are modern cars so designed now that one is totally insulated from the effects of wind?

They're almost certainly more aerodynamic than the 'bricks' of 25 yrs ago.
Totally insulated?
Probably not.

Round about the point where wind becomes an issue for cyclists the visible signs of 'it's a bit windy' are more than obvious. But then again, many of us have given up on expecting motorists to respond to simple visual cues. And yes, even with ever lighter power steering and better aerodynamics it's generally fairly easy to 'feel' the effects of the wind in a modern car.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 27 April, 2012, 08:37:13 pm
Cycled up into a huge hailstorm over the top of the hill this afternoon.
This made the descent almost impossible.
I could only have my face pointing directly downwards, I couldn't look forward at all.
The speed had to be checked to around 15mph max.
I had to do occasional upward glances, and was rewarded with a face and eyes full of icy bullets, and not much vision.
Yuck.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 27 April, 2012, 10:43:17 pm
Lovely. Just absolutely bloody lovely.

The sun finally came out this afternoon and we finished work early, plus the wind was favouring a ride towards the east over a ride towards the south, so I turned left out of the office instead of going straight on, and did the Gravesend route (~40km) instead of the usual Bromley route (~20km). Despite heavy traffic along most of the route, it was a thoroughly enjoyable ride - everything just felt right, even Shooters Hill.

Sweet.  8)

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bloomers100 on 30 April, 2012, 08:42:11 am
Two floods to contend with this morning. The path at Writtle by the agricultural college is very deep, then at Blackmore the junction by the duckpond is flooded. Got through that on the footpath, water came up to my shoe at the bottom of my stroke. Lovely morning tho.

 (http://i751.photobucket.com/albums/xx158/Bloomers100/IMAG0127_edit0.jpg)

Blackmore.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 30 April, 2012, 09:37:09 am
Lovely weather, spoilt by a puncture. Right next to seam on tube, so the patch wouldn't seal. I'll have to razor off the seam later on.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 30 April, 2012, 09:38:52 am
Not Raining.  Huzzah!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 30 April, 2012, 09:41:41 am
What is that yellow thing in the sky?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: delthebike on 30 April, 2012, 09:45:09 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 30 April, 2012, 09:41:41 am
What is that yellow thing in the sky?
It's to warn of coming rain!  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 30 April, 2012, 10:19:23 am
Left the car at work over the weekend so had a ride home Friday evening- lovely ride with no incidents (my last Friday ride home involved crashing heavily). The ride in this morning was also incident free but, Christ on a Bike! - no breakfast before setting off really did for me this morning. Sloooooooooooooooooow and knackered :-\


P.S. Knackered or knackerd or however? Neither looks right.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 30 April, 2012, 10:30:05 am
as in cream crackered
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 30 April, 2012, 10:36:12 am
I forgot to mention a lovely woman I met just before entering Brockwell Park.  She came steaming round the corner (past the park gate in a residential street) in her wankpanzer, swerved to avoid the parked car on her side, then ABSed to a halt.  She screamed at me that I shouldn't be in the middle of the road.  I wasn't.  She was, and I pointed this out.  Then she swore at me and told me not to cuss her out.  I hadn't.  She had, and I pointed this out.

As the dreg drove off, I saw the girl inthe back was flipping the bird.  Poor child, being given such a bad example.  I sighed, but I pointed it out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 30 April, 2012, 10:42:20 am
Quote from: jogler on 30 April, 2012, 10:30:05 am
as in cream crackered

Cheers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 30 April, 2012, 10:54:42 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 30 April, 2012, 09:41:41 am
What is that yellow thing in the sky?

It is a vengeful deity to which ritual sacrifices of inner tubes must be made unless you want a return to the weather of the past week or so.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 30 April, 2012, 01:01:36 pm
Cracking ride in this morning and being one layer short of the comfortable pootle zone I was encouraged to get a wiggle on.  Now why couldn't the weather have been like this on Saturday?

Normal service will be resumed tomorrow, no doubt.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 30 April, 2012, 01:11:28 pm
The past two weeks I have been semi commuting. That is bicycle to Radyr Station then trains to Bridgend Station then bicycle to work.  Today that all changed.  Last Friday I decided that I was recovered enough to ride all the way. So this morning despite the rain I did. My knee does not hurt unless I kneel on it.  The strained index finger still hurts whenever I use it. So rear brake braking is a little less effective than it should be.

I find the twenty year old Dawes Galaxy I am using easy to use. The only annoyance is having to change gears with down tube levers. My right hand thumb keeps looking for lever to make me go faster.

 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 30 April, 2012, 02:13:03 pm
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 30 April, 2012, 01:11:28 pm
change gears with down tube levers. My right hand thumb keeps looking for lever .

I get this muxed ip frequently due to swapping rides between the Trek (STI) & the Longstaff (DTL)
 ::-)

It feels quite liberating using the Langster (fixed) & not having to even think about gears.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 30 April, 2012, 02:40:46 pm
Load of gravel and timber in the trailer today. As I approached the end of a cycle path at Ditton Fields I espied a tandem coming the other way, just the other side of the bollards, so I apply brakes and move to the left to go around the LH bollard leaving the gap in the middle for them. Cue locking the front wheel briefly on some mud/gravel on the ground after the heavy rain over the weekend.

Gravel is quite heavy! Oh, the acceleration is quite poor too, with a 71" gear, and I had a real struggle hauling the load up the Green Dragon bridge after stopping at the bottom to let a jogger past at the cattle grid.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 30 April, 2012, 02:43:51 pm
Amazingly dry after a weekend of being soaked. And quite fast for me on a loaded pannier stuffed bike at 17.5mph.

Looks like it might even stay dry this evening :) Tomorrow I'm in the car as its TT day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 30 April, 2012, 09:07:11 pm
Gah. If that car had been a bit longer or a tad slower in moving forward I would have gone right into the side of it. As it is I locked both wheels up and slid round the rear corner.  :o

Had to stop on the pavement for a few minutes for my hands and knees to stop shaking  :-\

Silly pissweasel pulling out whilst looking at me then registering the speed I was actually doing and stopping dead in a panic right across my path.

Was a bit close  :sick:

I will concede that I was speeding a bit down the hill but no faster than cars drive down there and I was very visible. I even thought as I got near that "I hope she doesn't pull out" but didn't think she actually would especially when she looked at me and stopped behind the give way line. Obviously her mind changed.

She looked as shocked as me but did she stop and check I was alright? Did she bollocks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 30 April, 2012, 09:18:56 pm
Eek.  Nasty. :(

I had a longer commute home.  Silly tailwind on Embankment let me get up to 40kph on the flat ;D  Then over the river through Putney and up through Richmond Park, riding from Roehampton to Kingston Gate via Richmond Gate.

After that, it was just home into a wild and gusty headwind.

With a tyre leaking air :(

But it was fun nonetheless.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 30 April, 2012, 09:22:50 pm
Had a rather rare tailwind home at least so had a good ride to burn off the adrenaline. I always find it easier to go fast with a tailwind, I mean that's a tad obvious but I mean I'm better at putting effort in when I can see it achieving something.

Took the longer way and did 20 miles rather than my usual 16 which was nice.

Think I've pulled my neck a tad in the tensing up and desperate braking though. Time for a hot bath and a top up of scotch - purely for medicinal purposes of course.  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Domestique on 01 May, 2012, 06:04:11 am
Putting full waterproofs on today  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 01 May, 2012, 06:11:41 am
Yesterday was such a beautiful morning that I did the extended commute for the first time for ages.  Beautiful riding up through Greenwich Park, a couple of circuits of Blackheath, back down through the park.  The avenue of cherry trees that runs across the park next to the road look beautiful in the very early morning sun.  The blossom was glowing pink and gold. 
     This morning.  IT's  BACK!.  NOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!! (Yes, I am shouting)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 01 May, 2012, 07:48:11 am
Bleedin heck tis windy
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 01 May, 2012, 02:31:12 pm
yesterday, first mini cycle commute for my 5YO daughter to the kids club about 1km from home, a broad grin on her face all the way through (and she was riding on the pavement, but what can you do).

This morning on my own this time, got an upset look and grumble from a ped. about my bike not being allowed on the pavement.... showed her the shared-use signpost which is at this time of year mostly hidden in spring growth and this did appear to calm her down.
A very helpful northeasterly wind is about to revert its direction tonight for the trip back.....   ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 01 May, 2012, 06:14:22 pm
I met an arsehole. He's been arrested.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 May, 2012, 07:33:17 pm
:(

:)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 01 May, 2012, 07:44:37 pm
It seems that the arsehole might be "known" given the expediency with which he was identified.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 01 May, 2012, 07:44:49 pm
Quote from: benborp on 01 May, 2012, 06:14:22 pm
I met an arsehole. He's been arrested.

Now, with just a bit more work, you can post this in the Haiku thread...


In other news:

Totally great commuting day today.
Met another cyclist going up the Cairn at early-o'clock!  That's a first.  We rode up the hill together.  He turned around and went back down the way we'd come up.
He was training for the Applecross hands-on sportive.

On the way home, there were cyclists aplenty around Banchory.
Many more than I've seen up till now.
Mostly club riders with carbon fibre underpants and lycra bikes, but good to see anyway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 02 May, 2012, 08:34:11 am
A standard commute home yesterday afternoon.

A swift commute in this morning.

I was feeling quite good this morning when I left home and the lack of breakfast didn't have too drastic an effect going up Quarry Wood Road towards Winter Hill. After the descent and a few junctions, I spied a cyclist ahead who resembled a colleague. I caught him and it wasn't. A short while after passing him, I was passed by a rider on a skinny wheeld hybrid and no luggage. He was quick. I managed to match his pace until I turned off for the nick.

Fastest ride in for a long time, if not ever :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bloomers100 on 02 May, 2012, 09:01:01 am
Blackpool style mizzle in Essex this morning which I quite liked. Blackmore is still flooded at the junction I can't believe people are risking their cars going through it, I estimate that the road part is at least a foot deep.

Had to take avoiding action in Brentwood High Street for the second time this week, I blame it on drivers not making allowances for the part of their windscreen that is wet and therefore more opaque, from which, presumably I appear at the last minute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 02 May, 2012, 09:03:55 am
First ride on Brooks (other than to end of street and back).

wierd - it feels hard, almost uncomfortably so. But gets more comfortable during the ride (unlike other saddle). Also seems to soak up some of the bumps.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 May, 2012, 09:11:58 am
I had a swift ride home last night.  May contain traces of tailwind.

this morning, I rode in with Butterfly.  She has found a way to extend her commute :D :thumbsup:

I wonder how many car/bus/train/tube commuters would be pleased by that? ;D

Anyway, by adding ten minutes riding, we can avoid going up Mitcham Lane and through Streatham when that's useful. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 02 May, 2012, 09:36:50 am
Arrived at work this morning not wet.  How odd.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 02 May, 2012, 12:21:03 pm
You know when something feels not quite right about your bike but you can't quite place what it is? That describes most of my ride to work this morning.

I eventually worked out that the odd feeling was play in the bottom bracket. Closer inspection revealed that the right crank was displaced about 1cm outwards. ???

But thank goodness for newfangled external bottom brackets, eh? It took almost as long to find my 5mm allen key in my saddlebag as it took to put it right again.

Wondering what caused it though - could it have been due to an over-tight chain?

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 02 May, 2012, 05:45:43 pm
Quote from: clarion on 02 May, 2012, 09:11:58 am
I had a swift ride home last night.  May contain traces of tailwind.

this morning, I rode in with Butterfly.  She has found a way to extend her commute :D :thumbsup:

I wonder how many car/bus/train/tube commuters would be pleased by that? ;D

Anyway, by adding ten minutes riding, we can avoid going up Mitcham Lane and through Streatham when that's useful. :)

I don't know how people cycle through Streatham, I avoid it at all costs.  Talk about urban motorway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil on 02 May, 2012, 06:05:53 pm
My commute takes me down the Embankment. Every morning some bright spark decides that they'll jump the queue to turn right onto Northumberland Avenue by going through the ahead-only green light and pulling in front of the lane of traffic waiting to turn.  This morning it was assorted motorbikes, two vans, and a Routemaster.  They couldn't all fit into the gap, so they blocked the rest of the embankment comprehensively until the right-filter light came on instead. 

They found themselves being pulled over by an unimpressed-looking policeman.  I felt very smug.  Hopefully the fuzz will make a habit of hanging round there until the idiots get the idea.  People doing that and swerving into the ASZ without checking that it's not full of cyclist have made it the hairest part of my entire commute. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 02 May, 2012, 08:39:05 pm
Phil, that's my regular route too and I get v fed up with the ASL being blocked with PTWs and, frequently, some tosser in a car swinging in front of us all. 

I wish I'd seen the PCs in action there today, but my commute today took me to the TfL tunnels control centre where I got to play with the signals that control access to the Blackwall Tunnel.  I think that may be the first time it's been completely closed to all traffic apart from cyclists.  I wonder if they've got that gridlock cleared yet.......
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gerwinium on 02 May, 2012, 08:51:42 pm
Got met by several gentlemen in high viz on the south side of the Greenwich foot tunnel. Apparently it is no longer permitted to cycle on the bit near the Cutty Sark (which is, incidentally, part of NCR1). Apparently there's a meeting of the local cycling group soon to discuss this, however it would have been nice for signs to have been put up and a discussion to be had on the topic instead! Apart from a few cyclists, the pavement was almost completely empty so it felt thoroughly silly. You wonder by whom and why these decisions are taken.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 02 May, 2012, 09:31:17 pm
I think  it may always have been technically illegal to cycle there, much in the same way that it is illegal to cycle the wrong way up the one way street that leads from Greenwich Park to Trafalgar Road or across the pavement at the southern entrance to the park when the road gates are closed.  It's silly for that little bit to be shown as part of a NCR but I don't think it's a big deal to ask us not to cycle on it.  It may be quiet now but in the summer it will be heaving with peds
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 02 May, 2012, 09:43:48 pm
On my commute today I was chased by geese and a flock of goslings.

tbh it was pretty awesome.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 02 May, 2012, 11:36:17 pm
Quote from: gerwinium on 02 May, 2012, 08:51:42 pm
Got met by several gentlemen in high viz on the south side of the Greenwich foot tunnel. Apparently it is no longer permitted to cycle on the bit near the Cutty Sark (which is, incidentally, part of NCR1). Apparently there's a meeting of the local cycling group soon to discuss this, however it would have been nice for signs to have been put up and a discussion to be had on the topic instead! Apart from a few cyclists, the pavement was almost completely empty so it felt thoroughly silly. You wonder by whom and why these decisions are taken.
They are all taken by that arse Boris Johnson personally, allegedly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 02 May, 2012, 11:47:52 pm
I caught up a hoodie-wearing, BSO-riding individual yesterday; there was a clattering, wailing and gnashing-of-teeth as he attempted to change rear sprocket, while the chain was mightily sucked between small-ring and chainstay.  As I came up behind him, I called out "Just back-pedal a moment", and yea, verily, the chain did regain its natural lie.  And there was much rejoicing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 03 May, 2012, 06:07:47 am
Quote from: Redlight on 02 May, 2012, 09:31:17 pm
I think  it may always have been technically illegal to cycle there, much in the same way that it is illegal to cycle the wrong way up the one way street that leads from Greenwich Park to Trafalgar Road or across the pavement at the southern entrance to the park when the road gates are closed.  It's silly for that little bit to be shown as part of a NCR but I don't think it's a big deal to ask us not to cycle on it.  It may be quiet now but in the summer it will be heaving with peds


It's a shame that these things can't be left to common sense.   It's a big space and there is plenty of room for all on some occasions.  Then there are those times when it is completely rammed and cycling through would be inconsiderate.  So, you get off and walk.  Well, some of us do. 
It's not walking my bike that bothers me.  Its the increasing interference of authorities into the regulation of public space, where there seems to have been no need demonstrated for such regulation.  We already have More London on the riverside getting people off bikes on a bit of the cycle route that has more space for everyone than almost anywhere else on the river and whoever owns Spitalfields now stopping you locking your bike up on street furniture. 
  Perhaps the council will consider considerate cycling signs first and trust most people to do the right thing.  If there is a significant problem of cyclists terrorising people , then I guess a total ban would be justified.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 03 May, 2012, 06:24:04 am
Quote from: gerwinium on 02 May, 2012, 08:51:42 pm
Got met by several gentlemen in high viz on the south side of the Greenwich foot tunnel. Apparently it is no longer permitted to cycle on the bit near the Cutty Sark (which is, incidentally, part of NCR1). Apparently there's a meeting of the local cycling group soon to discuss this, however it would have been nice for signs to have been put up and a discussion to be had on the topic instead! Apart from a few cyclists, the pavement was almost completely empty so it felt thoroughly silly. You wonder by whom and why these decisions are taken.

Unless there's signage in place (as far as I'm aware the only sign there at present is a non-compliant one on the western access to the area) informing you of a cycling ban, and the high viz is that of a police officer or PCSO, I'd be hard pressed not  to regard anyone else telling me I cannot cycle there as harassment.

I'm less than comfortable with the notion that random strangers in action man outfits can think, and act, like they have the authority to tell us what to do. As Jane says, if common sense was applied, there'd be no need.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 03 May, 2012, 10:26:12 am
Quote from: Phil on 02 May, 2012, 06:05:53 pm
My commute takes me down the Embankment. Every morning some bright spark decides that they'll jump the queue to turn right onto Northumberland Avenue by going through the ahead-only green light and pulling in front of the lane of traffic waiting to turn.  This morning it was assorted motorbikes, two vans, and a Routemaster.  They couldn't all fit into the gap, so they blocked the rest of the embankment comprehensively until the right-filter light came on instead. 

They found themselves being pulled over by an unimpressed-looking policeman.  I felt very smug.  Hopefully the fuzz will make a habit of hanging round there until the idiots get the idea.  People doing that and swerving into the ASZ without checking that it's not full of cyclist have made it the hairest part of my entire commute.

Brilliant! That junction used to be part of my regular route when I worked elsewhere so I know exactly what you mean. Good to see the authorities aree doing something about it.

I hope their next target will be the roundabout at the south side of Lambeth Bridge. I regularly cross the roundabout coming from Vauxhall towards Waterloo. This morning, I was nearly taken out by a cabbie who decided to go through a red light from Lambeth Road onto the bridge. Yes, it had only just changed to red, but it had been red long enough for my lights to have changed to green. FFS.

On a more positive note, the kick of adrenaline it gave me meant that I hit 46km/h on the flat road past Lambeth Palace. On my 65" fixed gear. Wasn't even drafting anyone.  8)

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Northstar on 03 May, 2012, 11:43:43 am
Quote from: gerwinium on 02 May, 2012, 08:51:42 pm
Got met by several gentlemen in high viz on the south side of the Greenwich foot tunnel. Apparently it is no longer permitted to cycle on the bit near the Cutty Sark (which is, incidentally, part of NCR1). Apparently there's a meeting of the local cycling group soon to discuss this, however it would have been nice for signs to have been put up and a discussion to be had on the topic instead! Apart from a few cyclists, the pavement was almost completely empty so it felt thoroughly silly. You wonder by whom and why these decisions are taken.

Contact either the LCC, CTC or at a push Sustrans, if it's part of the national cycle network, they have no right to tell anyone not to cycle there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil on 03 May, 2012, 01:47:07 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 03 May, 2012, 10:26:12 am
Brilliant! That junction used to be part of my regular route when I worked elsewhere so I know exactly what you mean. Good to see the authorities aree doing something about it.
It happened again this morning, two motorbike police tugged a black cab that tried to squeeze in (but not the scaffolder's lorry that was occupying the ASZ) :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 03 May, 2012, 02:01:39 pm
Last night as I cycled East along Silertwon Way / N Woolwich Road I spotted a member of the local constabulary standing on a corner with a radar gun.  Hopefully he wasn't just doing a survey of average speeds.  It would be nice if they'd lay on a speed trap or two along Stratford High Street, but I bet Newham Council would probably complain.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 03 May, 2012, 02:42:19 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 03 May, 2012, 10:26:12 am
I hope their next target will be the roundabout at the south side of Lambeth Bridge. I regularly cross the roundabout coming from Vauxhall towards Waterloo. This morning, I was nearly taken out by a cabbie who decided to go through a red light from Lambeth Road onto the bridge. Yes, it had only just changed to red, but it had been red long enough for my lights to have changed to green. FFS.


d.

I go that way too, except I go over Lambeth bridge. It could definitely do with some attention.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 03 May, 2012, 05:24:24 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 03 May, 2012, 02:01:39 pm
Last night as I cycled East along Silertwon Way / N Woolwich Road I spotted a member of the local constabulary standing on a corner with a radar gun.  Hopefully he wasn't just doing a survey of average speeds.  It would be nice if they'd lay on a speed trap or two along Stratford High Street, but I bet Newham Council would probably complain.

To be fair, they quite often have a speed trap on Stratford High Street eastbound coming off the flyover, they stand in the road by the old tyre place.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 03 May, 2012, 07:39:18 pm
Quote from: Ham on 03 May, 2012, 05:24:24 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 03 May, 2012, 02:01:39 pm
Last night as I cycled East along Silertwon Way / N Woolwich Road I spotted a member of the local constabulary standing on a corner with a radar gun.  Hopefully he wasn't just doing a survey of average speeds.  It would be nice if they'd lay on a speed trap or two along Stratford High Street, but I bet Newham Council would probably complain.

To be fair, they quite often have a speed trap on Stratford High Street eastbound coming off the flyover, they stand in the road by the old tyre place.

Ah, never seen that.  I was thinking about westbound in the mornings, between the gyratory and flyover.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 May, 2012, 08:17:26 pm
Another swift ride home.  Very pleasant.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 03 May, 2012, 08:39:42 pm
Two roadies ahead on the way home, I plod along, draw near but I'm not really going fast enough to overtake so I hang back then get bored and drop them. On the uphill a mile later they draw level and overtake, one of them says "hello" or something, I didn't hear. They then relax! I'm sat on their wheels without really trying so I get bored again and drop them, again, they'd used all their reserves doing the second overtake. Why overtake people then slow down? I didn't mind, I dropped two bikes better than mine and two riders half my age. They may have already done twenty miles but a scalp's a scalp.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 04 May, 2012, 11:49:40 am
very slow today, the effects of working a 15 hour day yesterday
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 04 May, 2012, 01:04:03 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 03 May, 2012, 08:39:42 pm
Two roadies ahead on the way home, I plod along, draw near but I'm not really going fast enough to overtake so I hang back then get bored and drop them. On the uphill a mile later they draw level and overtake, one of them says "hello" or something, I didn't hear. They then relax! I'm sat on their wheels without really trying so I get bored again and drop them, again, they'd used all their reserves doing the second overtake. Why overtake people then slow down? I didn't mind, I dropped two bikes better than mine and two riders half my age. They may have already done twenty miles but a scalp's a scalp.

I had exactly the same a couple of days ago.
I was riding alone, on the approach to the hill.
All of a sudden, this guy on a carbon bike comes sprinting past, out of the saddle and gasping.   10m past me, he blows up, and sits back down in a state.   I pull up alongside, and we have a chat.
He's training for the Applecross sportive, which has a big climb on it.

The remainder of the ride to the top is conducted in the same way: furious sprint followed by collapse.   I remained in the saddle and maintained a constant but modest pace, and dropped him on all the climbs by a fair margin.   Slow and steady beats frantic sprint-and-collapse.

He'd do better to drop down a couple of gears, remain in the saddle and find a sustainable pace.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 04 May, 2012, 02:18:11 pm
I had a cracking ride in today thanks to a guy on a Specialized ATB with narrow tyres. I "encountered" him at the top of Loampit Vale in Lewisham, having upped my own pace to get past a couple of riders who were meandering very slowly in the uphill cycle lane, and we played cat and mouse pretty much all the way to Parliament Square. He was going storng and I had to up my usual effort level to stick with him, but it was great fun. The only hairy moment was when he was nearly rammed into the central reservation near the E&C roundabout by a dozy cab driver, but thankfully he was awake even if the clown driving wasn't.

End result was one of my fastest commutes yet, which is not a bad way to start the day.  Sir, if you're on here, thank you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 08 May, 2012, 07:52:24 am
After wheeling the road bike out of the shed I couldn't find my shoes, realised they must still have been in the motorhome, no prob's I think, I'll take the mountain bike (different pedals/shoes), oooh look schwalbe snow studs still fitted  ::-) , cue a mad panic to get the keo's off the road bike and replaced with the spare wellgo's. Whole thing only took 10 mins  :thumbsup:

The hassle was well worth it, what a beautiful morning.
 
Title: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 08 May, 2012, 08:24:08 am
Not so beautiful down here in east Kent - annoying cos the forecast had said the rain would have moved on by now. Anyway, I was too dozy to get out in time for a proper ride this morning so just the short dash to the station. :(

However, I fired up Strava on my phone, just to see if I could register a better time on the short climb and I nailed it. And scored a PB for the route. :thumbsup:

Interestingly, Strava registered a max speed of 72km/h on the descent into town, while my trusty old Cateye Astrale 8 (wired) gave me a mere 63km/h. Hmmm. Is it possible for the Cateye to be under-recording by that much or is Strava being over-generous? No apparent GPS glitches on the route track, so that's not the answer.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 May, 2012, 09:06:20 am
I expected the weather to be like last night - siling down.  So I went out togged up.  But it was dry (from above, at least).  Then had to shed layers as I went.

Nice ride (a few wazzocks excepted).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 08 May, 2012, 10:58:12 am
Another crash in Balham!  This time there's no collision.  All three of us saw the woman dart out of view behind the van up ahead, exactly where the crossing is (or rather isn't - it's not working at the mo).  Woman completes her crossing in safety (without looking after emerging from behind the van and crossing the cycle-blue-thingy).  There's an almighty clatter behind me and a cyclist on the deck.  Turns out he'd touched his front brake a bit too aggressively while his front wheel was on the the white paint, which was wet and slippery.

He'd managed to go down hard on both knees and the side of his head.  Ouch!  Patched him up with bits and bobs from Sainsburys, and off we toddled as far as Clapham Common where our routes divided.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 May, 2012, 11:00:00 am
Oh no!  That's not great.  Glad you were there to help him.

But it is absolutely scandalous that that crossing has been out of action for so long.  Utterly disgraceful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 08 May, 2012, 11:08:35 am
It would be a good start if they had some very visible Watch Out For Cyclists signs next to where the pedestrian crossing is and some Watch Out For Pedestrians along the side of the road.  Even if one party in last week's incident was being cautious the collision would have been avoided.  Unfortunately it would have done nothing for your man this morning: he anticipated correctly but just got unlucky with the change in traction when his tyre moved to the white paint.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 08 May, 2012, 09:42:40 pm
Gah. Waiting till I'm halfway across the roundabout (a mini one no less) before pulling out is not ideal. Thank fuck she was turning left and I had room to swing right.

As it is I pretty much brushed the driver window whilst bellowing many boab words. How she didn't see me (Cyo on full and bright blue jacket) I don't know but the look of horror on her face as she swerved away from me was a sight to behold.

Did I get any apology once we had separated? I'll let you guess.  ::-)

Bleh, that's twice I've had a rather close miss in the past couple weeks. Not that frequent compared to some on here but more than usual for me.

(And it still beats taking the car)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 09 May, 2012, 06:47:01 am
Exactly the situation that Airzound was designed for.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 09 May, 2012, 07:03:17 am
NO! no attractive gurrrl is going to scalp me on a mountain bike with fluorescent  orange wellies on  :- :hand:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 09 May, 2012, 07:24:54 am
Maybe you ought to wear SPDs instead of bright orange wellies next time? And go out on a road bike rather than a MTB?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 09 May, 2012, 07:52:49 am
Travelling down Irlam road last night passed a guy on a hybrid, as I went past "That headwinds a killer! Can I catch a draft?" , "Yeah no probs mate", so now the challenge is on, can I drop him? Fair play to him I pushed it up to evens into the wind and it wasn't till we got to the end of the road about a mile later that he gave up with a shout of "thanks, but thats way to quick", good job really I couldn't have held that pace into the wind for too much longer.

Another absolutely cracking morning, loving it lately  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 09 May, 2012, 08:24:18 am
Quote from: MattH on 09 May, 2012, 07:24:54 am
Maybe you ought to wear SPDs instead of bright orange wellies next time? And go out on a road bike rather than a MTB?

 ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

I was in full combat gear: spd-L's, over shoes, Pro-branded shorts, and on a racing bike..........the wellies did look quite good though, all the rubber up to the knee  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 09 May, 2012, 08:51:55 am
Fantastic day for a ride in.
Frosty start, but warmed up nicely once the sun came up.

Bugger.
Just noticed the seat-pack with my spare tube and tools is missing from the bike.
I took it off at the w/end to use a bigger bag on the 200.
Forgot to put it back on.
Hope no mechanicals on the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 May, 2012, 11:15:33 am
Determinedly wearing shorts, one jersey and no waterproofs this morning.  Failing to believe in rain can sometimes make it OK. ;D

Mind you, I did have longs, another jersey and a waterproof in the saddlebag, JIC ;)

Looking brighter now, so it'll be another ride home wondering whether this morning really happened.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 09 May, 2012, 11:19:18 am
First commute for me since the Brevet Cymru. I have a bit of a cough, and heavy legs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 09 May, 2012, 11:25:30 am
Maaaaaaan, I was on it today... set a PB of nearasdammit 29km/h despite very heavy traffic along Walworth Rd slowing me down.  8)

Quite glad of the persistent light drizzle to keep me cool, tbh.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RJ on 09 May, 2012, 12:50:59 pm
No legwarmers - first time since I don't know when
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: seraphina on 09 May, 2012, 12:55:28 pm
I am SO FED UP of this rain! Bike filthy 30sec after cleaning it, leggings filthy and wet. Also an unusually high proportion of crap driving today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 09 May, 2012, 05:37:09 pm
Having nice ride home until about 1.5 miles from the asylum and was passed stupidly close by a sign written silver van whose driver was texting and whose office just so happens to be at the end of the road.

After parking the bike up at home i went round and had a chat with the guy's boss who looked decidedly uninterested until I gave him my works email address and he realised he's just quoted for a large service contract with us, at which point he became all sweetness and light. We await developments with interest.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 09 May, 2012, 06:30:40 pm
Quote from: Wonky on 09 May, 2012, 06:47:01 am
Exactly the situation that Airzound was designed for.

Well it'd have been satisfying to give a good blast after the event but there was no time before/during. It was all i could do to avoid a collision.

And my airzound is in the cupboard  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 09 May, 2012, 08:05:16 pm
Dressed up in full waterproofs today to not quite get rained on. It were warm, and I got wet inside the waterproofs instead.
About 5 miles into this mornings ride, there was a ping from the rear wheel, and it went a little bit - 'wonky'.
Nevermind, it was rideable, and on the non drive side, so I fixed it when I got home, without disassembling the bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 09 May, 2012, 09:13:48 pm
Great ride home tonight.
Left work at lunchtime, as I needed to take kids to an athletics event.

The often-times 3 hour ride back to 2:35, which is where it should be.
17.25 on the climb, which is respectable enough.   Happy with that.

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/176445955

It's annoying that the lap splits don't show where they occour on the map.
I used the lap timer function to time myself on the climb.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 May, 2012, 10:37:58 am
Set off from home 6am in mizzle.  Got to Clapham Common in 30min, which is good by my standards, and Waterloo in 50min.

 - Waterloo?  Your commute doesn't go past there!

Ah, but it did today. On to Kings Cross, in fact, then, after a bit of confusion about a one way not marked on the map, up Caledonian Rd, past the Emirates stadium, through Finsbury Park, and on to Hornsey, where I delivered an important form to ERS which needed to be in by lunchtime today.

Looking at the map for this trip, I'd noticed the proximity of Alexandra Palace.  Just been reading about this in Stuart Maconie's latest book, so I thought I'd have to visit.

Well.  Could have been easier.  Hard to find the route through to the Park (a kind local schoolboy helped me :thumbsup: ), then the paths I'd hoped to ride on turned out to be completely fenced off.  I roughstuffed along the fence, only to realise it was blocked off down the hill as well. :(

I almost despaired of getting to see the Palace, but I felt I couldn't leave it there, so I backtracked, found a path I could ride which took me to a bastard hill with Vauxhalls speeding by and vans pushing through pinch points.  Lovely.  But I grimped to the Palace, and stopped, turning to admire the wonderful view Maconie writes of.

Well, I'm sure it is lovely, but it wasn't apparent this morning.  All I saw was the houses in the vale disappearing into mist and another wave of light rain.

Never mind.  Job done.  And enough time wasted.  So off to work find a toilet first.  I spied a small pavilion and made my way there.  Nope.  All locked up. 

Emerging from between the two old corrugated sheds next to the Pitch & Putt, where I'd *ahem* sheltered out of the wind to refold my map, I remounted, and then rode up the steepest bit of tarmac I've seen South of Ashbourne.  I dismounted when my front wheel left the ground, but I was pleased with how far I got.

Down the hill, over to Crouch End, and off to town!  I had known it would be rush hour by the time I was heading back south.  And I knew that I would be going back ino the wind which had been so kind previously.  And I knew that North London is much lumpier than my ridiculously flat commute Sahf of the river.  But I hadn't counted on the radial roads being quite so indecisive in their ambition to get to the City.  Nor quite the weight of traffic.  It seems car/bus ratios are much higher in the North compared to, say, Streatham or Clapham.  Oh - and the lack of bus lanes is a PITA, too.  Poor sods up there, commuting every day through that lot.  I didn't really get a clear bit of road till I got to Farringdon Road, where I managed to zoom down the bus lanes.

I knew by now I was going to be late.  Not just later than when i normally come in the door, but probably late for my start time even before I got changed.  That's offset by regular early mornings, so I don't mind.  But, as I rolled closer to work, I had a dilemma.  I was almost up to 50km, and on 19.9kph.  If I sprinted, I'd be frustratingly short on distance and speed.  But if I added a short loop, I'd be a minute late.  Of course, I chose the latter option.

North London's all right for a visit, but I wouldn't want to live there. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 May, 2012, 03:56:30 pm
This rain better be done with within the hour, or I will not be amused.  Nor will the poor wronged cyclist riding home on a child's saddle. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Speshact on 10 May, 2012, 05:35:46 pm
I love my cape
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 10 May, 2012, 07:12:21 pm
Quote from: Speshact on 10 May, 2012, 05:35:46 pm
I love my cape

Flew home over the rain clouds, I assume.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 10 May, 2012, 09:16:41 pm
Well, it had certainly stopped raining by the time I left work. But the wind was still a right sod. Almost got blown to a standstill on Camberwell Rd.

At least it was warm. Muggy, in fact. Mucho sweatio.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 May, 2012, 10:10:51 pm
Quote from: clarion on 10 May, 2012, 03:56:30 pm
This rain better be done with within the hour, or I will not be amused. 

Oh ha bloody ha.  I didn't mean to swap it for a howling bloody gale >:(

But I had an odd commute this evening.  I dashed home (as much as dashing was possible in that direction) and fetched the replacement saddle for the tandem.  Then turned around and enjoyed the tailwind wafting me up the hill to Streatham.  I met Butterfly near Tulse Hill flats, where we effected a swap (you get good overtaking with a long seatpost casually projecting from your saddlebag), and rode slowly home back into the wind.

As we approached home, I realised that I was getting close to 100km for the day, so I went off on our training loop, and made both morning and evening commutes a shade over 50km each.  With a lunchtime butty run of 2km, I'm happy with that. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 10 May, 2012, 10:15:30 pm
I nearly had the third accident in six months this morning.  It is a long time since I relied upon cantilever brakes.  I have an up and down undulating route on my commute. The weather this week has been mostly drizziling so the brake pad wear has been significant.  Today I had no problem for the first two third of the ride.  I was riding down a short shallow hill in Pencoed.  At the bottom a car had illegally stopped on double yellow lines.  A car was legally coming on the other side of the road so I could not pull out to go around. So braking was the option.  To my surprise I pulled the levers and no retardation. I pulled into the gutter, jumped off the pedals straddling the bike still squeezing the brake levers I manged to bring myself to a stop with my front wheel overlapping the back of car on the inside. I had no further to go as the car was tight into kerb to unload a passenger.

I inspected the brakes and noticed considerable wear.  I decided the best thing to do was to catch the train home.  Tomorrow I will move the brakes in and Saturday buy some new blocks.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 10 May, 2012, 10:37:24 pm
Quote from: clarion on 10 May, 2012, 10:10:51 pm

Oh ha bloody ha.  I didn't mean to swap it for a howling bloody gale >:(


Wind? What wind?

In other news, on my northward journey today, I was on top form.  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 May, 2012, 10:40:51 pm
;D Chapeau!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 11 May, 2012, 07:56:19 am
Quote from: Si_Co on 09 May, 2012, 05:37:09 pm
Having nice ride home until about 1.5 miles from the asylum and was passed stupidly close by a sign written silver van whose driver was texting and whose office just so happens to be at the end of the road.

After parking the bike up at home i went round and had a chat with the guy's boss who looked decidedly uninterested until I gave him my works email address and he realised he's just quoted for a large service contract with us, at which point he became all sweetness and light. We await developments with interest.

Result, had two email's, one from the the driver giving a profuse apology and another from the boss to say that they are booking a two day road safety course for all drivers including practical cycle safety and they have to give up a Saturday to attend, happy with that really.

Cracking tailwind today, really good fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 11 May, 2012, 08:50:09 am
Yesterday I experienced a miracle on the way home. Rain ceased just before I left and stayed ceased until after I got home. Still wet though cos, as mentioned above, muggy so I sweated like the pig I am :D

This morning was glorious. Nice sunny ride. Wide overtakes by everyone that had to.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moultonaught on 11 May, 2012, 11:49:41 am
First proper commute for a long time.  First half mile was cloudy then 7 and a bit  more miles of glourious sunshine, as I pottered through Buckinghamshiore back roads and on to Aylesbury station, with all car overtakes (overtaking me) except for one being remarkably good, and even the bad one was tolerable. The hill formerly known as 'nemesis hill' was surprisingly easy.  ;D

Looking forward to the ride home.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 11 May, 2012, 11:57:51 am
Nice moment this morning when I timed hitting a roundabout perfectly to slot in behind a truck, so got a nice tow for the next half a mile or so at about 45km/h... uphill!  8)

Almost made up for being a bit slower than usual on the rest of the ride due to the fecking headwind, as a result of which I missed the early train by about a minute. Grrr.

Lovely warm, sunny morning for a ride though. Actually felt more like early summer rather than [very] late winter for a change. Glorious.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 11 May, 2012, 01:51:20 pm
Taking the bike home tonight instead of the train
I can see blue sky and sunshine outside at the moment  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 11 May, 2012, 01:56:53 pm
I can see only black clouds and heavy rain.
Looks like I'm in for a soaking.

ETA: Yup, hail and rain over the hill.
But neck nice and warm with new buff, and legs and bum in luxurious new Assos comfort  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 11 May, 2012, 02:04:12 pm
Quote from: Feanor on 11 May, 2012, 01:56:53 pm
I can see only black clouds and heavy rain.
Looks like I'm in for a soaking.

S'only water and skin is waterproof :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 11 May, 2012, 02:42:10 pm
Quote from: Feanor on 11 May, 2012, 01:56:53 pm
I can see only black clouds and heavy rain.
Looks like I'm in for a soaking.

But at least it is Saturday tomorrow!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 11 May, 2012, 04:08:55 pm
Here in Southwark, it's sunny and warm and the wind direction is favouring the long way home.  :thumbsup:

What's the betting it will all change in the next two hours...

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 11 May, 2012, 04:53:50 pm
First commute for a fortnight. Shorts, no jacket.  Wasn't sure that was the right choice when I set out, but I was fine once I got going.
The longer of my two commute in routes.  I can tell I've not been getting the exercise in of late!
But there are advantages to working away from base--POETS day!  :thumbsup: So a longer ride home than usual!
Shame the next time I'll be on the bike is Thursday  :-\

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 11 May, 2012, 07:23:09 pm
Quote from: Wonky on 10 May, 2012, 10:37:24 pm
Quote from: clarion on 10 May, 2012, 10:10:51 pm

Oh ha bloody ha.  I didn't mean to swap it for a howling bloody gale >:(


Wind? What wind?

In other news, on my northward journey today, I was on top form.  :demon:

I really need to watch my mouth. Had a howling south-westerly on my way in this morning, which switched to a north-westerly for my way home. Felt like someone had put sand in my bearings.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 11 May, 2012, 08:44:38 pm
A rather strong ride in and a tougher ride home. Nothing to do with the prevailing wind  :P

But both rides were good and no particular numptiness from the other road users.

And even though the ride home felt a bit slow I only took 1h20 which is about average if not a tad faster.

Plus I got home to find my YACF buff had arrived  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dinamo on 12 May, 2012, 07:10:11 am
Clear blue skies and a tailwind this morning  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 12 May, 2012, 09:09:45 am
Apparently I hit 51mph on my Pugsley today.

Well I think the iPhone is pretty accurate :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 12 May, 2012, 09:27:09 am
Yesterday - tailwind both ways  ;D ;D  Lots of sunshine.  Late home from work so balanced Dominos Pizza on the handlebars for the last descent home.  Yum!
Title: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 12 May, 2012, 09:37:58 am
Took advantage of the sun and tailwind to go the long way home yesterday. Glorious ride. Averaged 29km/h while feeling I was putting in half that level of effort. Top 10 for Shooters Hill on Strava without even really trying - wish I'd pushed a bit harder now!

Only went as far as Gravesend (38km) before hopping on the train. Wish I could have carried on at least as far as Rochester but I'd got out of work later than expected and needed to get home. Darn it.

Undid all that good work by scarfing down a whole family-size pepperoni pizza when I got home. ;D

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 12 May, 2012, 06:21:43 pm
Went out with the trailer to do the big shop at Tescos. It feels strange walking round the supermarket with a cold box in the trolley. On my way back saw many of Tayside's finest outside my local chippy. It wasn't the chips they were interested in..

(http://a.yfrog.com/img616/2240/rq0zne.jpg)

The van had come out of the junction on the right. It is one way and light controlled. The sightlines down the road are very poor. It has been spun nearly 180 degrees with sufficient force to seriously damage the railings. The police car was proceeding past the chippy (red/white signed shop at the top) and bounced off the van with sufficient energy to seriously damage the railings the other side. The gentleman from the van was described by a witness as being 'in a very bad way' - being taken still and fully covered into the ambulance as I arrived.


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 13 May, 2012, 12:40:01 am
Just heard the van driver was fine and is enjoying his new found notoriety at home after a brief checkup at the hospital..
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 13 May, 2012, 08:06:10 am
Quote from: David Martin on 13 May, 2012, 12:40:01 am
Just heard the van driver was fine and is enjoying his new found notoriety at home after a brief checkup at the hospital..
Phew! :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 15 May, 2012, 09:22:37 am
Quote
Dear Sirs,

COMPLAINT ABOUT MEGABUS DRIVER

This morning (15th May 12) I was nearly deliberately killed or seriously maimed by one of your drivers, and while I was too shocked to take note of the bus details, I hope that the details I can give will give you enough information to identify him and, if not, the type of event may emphasise the need to provide additional training for your drivers.

I am a cyclist, covering around 10,000 miles a year in London and this event was one of the very worst I have encountered. It happened at 07:20 this morning in Oxford Street between Portman Street and Marble Arch. Your bus had turned west into Oxford Street from Orchard Street when I was stationary waiting at the lights at Orchard/Oxford Street junction. I rode up along the traffic which was stopped at the Portman/Oxford Street junction. I needed to be in the right hand lane at Marble Arch, so chose to ride up the right of the lane. The first vehicle was an articulated lorry, the second was your bus. Seeing a sizeable gap between the two, and thinking that your driver’s position is low down, I rode into the gap and took my place in the middle of the lane. I turned to make certain that your driver was positioned so he could see me. The lights changed and I moved off behind the lorry, and moved to the right. The lights at Marble Arch, 100m ahead were red.  I am now riding on the right hand of the lane (this Google map view places the location http://g.co/maps/vjjyd)

Your driver then chose to overtake. To do this he accelerated hard past me, angled right and crossing for some distance onto the opposite carriageway before returning to the correct carriageway. He was that close the bus brushed my shoulder and, had I not taken evasive action I would have been knocked down and potentially dragged under the rear wheels of the bus.

I caught up with the bus at the lights at Marble Arch as they were still red (no surprise there), the driver wound his window down, he was clearly expecting me. The conversation (without raised voices on either side) ran much like this:
Me: That was a bit close to get you to the red light quicker
He: You pushed in front of me. There was a truck in front, you didn’t push in front of him did you? I wonder why? You’re always going to be slower than me
Me: But the lights here were red – what was the rush ?
He: You’re always going to be slower than me, you shouldn’t have pushed in front
After a couple more repetitions of the same the lights changed and we rode off.

This incident was so wrong, on so many levels. Even if I had been holding him up – which I demonstrably wasn’t as the lights in less than 100m were red –  what right does that give him to use the bus as a weapon against me? From the manoeuvre itself and from what he said, he clearly knew what he was doing and drove that way deliberately.

I would describe the driver as male, around forty with short cropped hair, fairly sharp features, normal build and a Birmingham/mid country accent. I hope the location and the detail give you sufficient information to identify him. I do not want him disciplined, there was nobody hurt and there would be nothing gained by that, but I do want him educated. If he is driving a vehicle on the streets with that attitude it is only a matter of time before he seriously hurts or kills someone, and it will likely be one of your buses he is driving.

Yours faithfully


Ham
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 15 May, 2012, 09:36:21 am
Nice letter/ e mail Ham. Hoepfuly it will hit the spot.

Yesterday arfternoons ride home was spot on again. Consideration shown my way at junctions and with overtakes.

This morning was wet- very. I gett he impression that some drivers forget they are enclosed and don't get wet in their cars/ vans. In the rain, they seem to drive in a rush as if to get out of the rain. WTF is that all about?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 15 May, 2012, 09:36:38 am
So basically he was ‘punishing’ you.

I have all but stopped using Vauxhall bridge southbound after a Megabus almost brushed my arm at speed (it’s got more than one lane so drivers treat it like a motorway). I should have complained but I didn’t as I was too shaken to get any details at all.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 May, 2012, 09:55:12 am
What a complete wazzock.  There's been loads of them this morning.  I don't know why a bit of rain means you can't cross a white line but still have to pass cyclists, especially when there's nowhere to go.  Gits.

But I'm pleased to report that, despite the wind and rain and colder than I might have hoped for weather this morning, I did enjoy my ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 15 May, 2012, 10:08:42 am
Cold and damp roads in Devon with a headwind.  But sunny so it was a nice ride to the station this morning
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 15 May, 2012, 10:21:07 am
My commute nowadays, is usually quiet and uneventful, being so early.  Today seemed like it would be no exception, until I turned into a quiet Peckham backstreet to wend my way towards the junction where I join the Old Kent Rd.  A Landrover came out of a side street, straight across my right of way. I swerved to the left, and narrowly missed hurtling headlong into the parked cars along the side of the road.  I did scrape my legs and batter my knees somewhat.  I did a quick bike check and caught up with the vehicle at the Lights at the OKR junction.  The driver appeared to be eating breakfast and when she wound down the window, smiling, in response to my gentle tap, I could see a plate of food balanced on her lap.  She was smiling and munching away happily,  obviously completely unaware of our previous interaction. I had  calmed down a bit up to this point and had originally intended merely to politely point out the possibility that checking for all kinds of traffic at junctions might reduce the likelihood of her killing or maiming someone in the future , not to mention reducing possible damage to her shiny new 4WD. However, the sight of her munching face grinning at me, like some huge, clothed hamster plus the plate of food on her lap, tipped me over the edge. ( It was a slightly bizarre scene, reminiscent of a weird nightmare).  Luckily, she had no cutlery, as I would probably have taken the opportunity to stab her with it.  I did get a bit shouty, I forget exactly what I said now.  However, not the witty intelligent and precise comments I had in my head before the greedy, plate balancing giant hamster driving a car appeared before me. 
    I am still not completely sure that I didn't dream it, it was that surreal.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 15 May, 2012, 10:23:53 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 15 May, 2012, 09:36:38 am
I have all but stopped using Vauxhall bridge southbound after a Megabus almost brushed my arm at speed (it’s got more than one lane so drivers treat it like a motorway). I should have complained but I didn’t as I was too shaken to get any details at all.

Nasty.  :(

I've actually started using Vauxhall Bridge southbound on the days when I get the train into Victoria. The back route I was using before is a bit twisty-turny (and is favoured by black cabs) and involves going all the way round Parliament Square - bit of a no-win situation either way. At least with Vauxhall Bridge I turn left at the end, so don't have to mix it up with the motons too much.

Plus I treat it like a race, so I can usually stay ahead of the traffic (PB is 40.7km/h average, according to Strava). I quite enjoy it but it is a shame that you have to ride like that to feel safe on London's streets.

And instead of choosing between Route A with Deathtrap Junction X and Route B with Deathtrap Junction Y, I would far rather take Route C with no Deathtrap Junctions. Unfortunately, I have yet to find Route C.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 May, 2012, 10:24:50 am
Glad you're still with us, Jane.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 15 May, 2012, 10:25:43 am
Quote from: jane on 15 May, 2012, 10:21:07 am
I am still not completely sure that I didn't dream it, it was that surreal.

Sounds to me like it wasn't you that was asleep...

Glad to hear you're OK.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 15 May, 2012, 10:29:25 am
Quote from: citoyen on 15 May, 2012, 10:25:43 am
Quote from: jane on 15 May, 2012, 10:21:07 am
I am still not completely sure that I didn't dream it, it was that surreal.

Sounds to me like it wasn't you that was asleep...

Glad to hear you're OK.


d.

Quote from: clarion on 15 May, 2012, 10:24:50 am
Glad you're still with us, Jane.
Thanks.   Not many  meet the giant, bacon munching hamster of Peckham and live to tell the tale.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 15 May, 2012, 10:38:43 am
Here's a playlist of bad lane discipline, most incidents (7 out of 9) occurred at Vauxhall:

http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL56E90E007EC9975D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 15 May, 2012, 11:58:32 am
I may well have been tempted to tip her plate of breakfast all over her. Then call the police.. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 May, 2012, 11:59:47 am
Yes.  I have also considered immobilising vehicles being driven in such dangerous manners.  It's horrifying.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 15 May, 2012, 12:20:30 pm
Jane, that is...astonishing. I suppose we should be grateful she wasn't reading the morning papers too...glad you weren't hurt more.

Yes, that is the only way to tackle Vauxhall bridge southbound, Citoyen; I've read before that Wendy takes the lane but he is also pretty quick. And, as you say, it shouldn't have to be that way. I'm just not fast enough to do Vauxhall bridge southbound, especially considering that some drivers really floor it and get aggressive if you move out of the cycle lane. I'd rather avoid the hassle at the end of the working day. Northbound has a bus lane and is fine.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 May, 2012, 12:22:52 pm
Vauxhall is the junction I avoid most.  And Elephant & Castle, Oval & Stockwell are all on my commute, so it's not that I'm a wuss (much).  It's just an astonishingly badly designed and marked system, and I am completely amazed that there aren't more collisions than there actually are.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 15 May, 2012, 01:02:42 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 15 May, 2012, 09:36:38 am
So basically he was ‘punishing’ you.

I have all but stopped using Vauxhall bridge southbound after a Megabus almost brushed my arm at speed (it’s got more than one lane so drivers treat it like a motorway). I should have complained but I didn’t as I was too shaken to get any details at all.

Yes it is shaking, isn't it?  Shocking standard of driving, I wonder if it related to Megabus fares => pay for drivers=> demands to drive faster ....?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 15 May, 2012, 01:11:10 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 15 May, 2012, 12:20:30 pm
especially considering that some drivers really floor it and get aggressive if you move out of the cycle lane badly painted gutter.

ftfy ;)

I never use that "cycle lane".

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 15 May, 2012, 01:53:41 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 15 May, 2012, 01:11:10 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 15 May, 2012, 12:20:30 pm
especially considering that some drivers really floor it and get aggressive if you move out of the cycle lane badly painted gutter.

ftfy ;)

I never use that "cycle lane".

d.


Indeed, I fervently wish it wasn't there.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 15 May, 2012, 02:40:32 pm
I wouldn't say I never use it, but not very often. The last time I used it, I crashed. It was wet, and the red route lines are so thickly painted, they tramlined my bike.

I also wish it didn't exist.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 15 May, 2012, 02:58:09 pm
Yep, three thickly painted lines with about 10cm between them. What genius decided that was OK? Oh, the same ones that assure us that the blue paint on the cycle superhighways meets all the friction standards applicable for modern road designs. Yet in some situations it still feels like riding on wet glass...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 15 May, 2012, 03:00:06 pm
The sort of good news is that they are re-doing Vauxhall at some stage, replacing the bike lane with sharrows in the middle of the nearside lane instead. I'm not too into the details of the junctions and redesign, but I'm told it isn't particularly great as a redesign. At least we're losing the cycle lane there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 15 May, 2012, 04:40:56 pm
Pretty chilly and wet on the way in today (first appointment was Belgravia at 9).

The scooted across to regents park, by which time the sun was out, then rode home. I saw queenie and Philip in Shepard's bush. I waved, she didn't wave back miserable cow.

Just got home and the heavens have opened again. Phew!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 15 May, 2012, 05:36:44 pm
Alternating sunny spells and heavy showers in Southwark, so no idea whether it will be a wet or dry ride home.

Looks like I'll have a nice tailwind though, which makes a nice change.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 15 May, 2012, 05:54:10 pm
Worst near-miss for a while, it's a tricky corner which is why you have to LOOK:

Dear Sir

I was just nearly wiped out by one of your drivers. At around ten minutes past 5pm today, your white liveried car-derived van was coming south down Cow Hill, with Micawber's pub on his right, wanting to turn right into Pottergate. A saloon car was driving toward the city ahead of me and the driver waited for your employee to turn, I was cycling west along Pottergate so Micawber's was on my left at the junction. Your driver had stopped, I cycled along Pottergate west bound and as I drew level with the Snellings vehicle he drove forward. He hadn't seen me, in broad daylight with the sun shining on me. I swerved to the right and finally he saw me, with the front of the vehicle a foot from my body, and slammed the brakes on.

 I stopped and turned to ask what had happened, how he couldn't have seen me, and the vehicle was driven away. The driver in the other car who had stopped held her head in her hands she was so shocked at what she had seen. She was staring open-mouthed at the disappearing car with your name on it.  I thought I was going to be seriously injured, the bumper would have smashed into my leg. I didn't shout or swear, I didn't say anything, the driver just left the scene. I didn't get a registration, sorry, it was a white liveried van and I didn't see the driver.   

It's bad enough not to see people on the roads, it's a poor advert for your firm if the driver then flees. He simply didn't bother to look where he was going.

Yours etc spindrift
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 15 May, 2012, 06:30:43 pm
On my way home tonight ( against a hooting great headwind ), I came across a white-bearded gent approaching the summit of the hill, with a fully-loaded rack and panniers!

Cheery waves all round, and off he went.
Good effort.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 15 May, 2012, 07:02:49 pm
Four seasons in one ride.......

It's a bake-shoes-in-oven night.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: welshwheels on 15 May, 2012, 07:36:42 pm
single bloody digits in to the headwind christ it's been some years since i have seen that ?     

sod off wind ggrrrrr :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 15 May, 2012, 08:49:48 pm
Quote from: Ham on 15 May, 2012, 07:02:49 pm
Four seasons in one ride.......

It's a bake-shoes-in-oven night.
Mine have taken up residence on top of the boiler, even if they are not wet. They are there so often that it just seems to be their logical home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 15 May, 2012, 08:56:22 pm
Thorough drying is the best way to prevent them becoming super-pongy, IME.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 15 May, 2012, 09:39:28 pm
No commute.

But a 200m ride along my road just as the heavens opened with hail an' everyfink.

Made me say "Aaaaaaaaaarrrrrrrrrrrrgggggggggggghhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

Before I got home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 15 May, 2012, 09:43:23 pm
I managed to walk to the university and back in between hailstorms and get some passport photos done.  This was incredibly lucky, and means I won't look like I've just been in a hailstorm in my new passport.

A couple of minutes later, it did this (http://twitpic.com/9ldehr).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 15 May, 2012, 10:02:49 pm
Today's happenings:

1) Deflated tyre on bike #1 this morning. Swapped race blades to bike #2.
2) Rescued cherished acf water bottle from Action Bikes who had forgotten to reinstate it after yesterday's service.
3) Slow puncture on bike #2 discovered on the point of leaving for home. Pursued by the puncture fairy!
4) Spotted Paddy Ashdown waiting for a bus outside the Houses of Parliament.
5) Rainbow over the Thames.
6) Arsehole driver beeping at me for having the temerity to overtake a stopped bus while he couldn't. I had an enjoyable rant at him at the inevitable next red light, 50 yards down the road. He left his windows up and I just kept talking at him until the lights changed again. I almost caught him at the next set too, which would have been even more satisfying.

That's a whole month's worth of stuff.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 15 May, 2012, 10:04:52 pm
Quote from: little miss mac on 15 May, 2012, 10:02:49 pm
Today's happenings:

1) Deflated tyre on bike #1 this morning. Swapped race blades to bike #2.
2) Rescued cherished acf water bottle from Action Bikes who had forgotten to reinstate it after yesterday's service.
3) Slow puncture on bike #2 discovered on the point of leaving for home. Pursued by the puncture fairy!
4) Spotted Paddy Ashdown waiting for a bus outside the Houses of Parliament.
5) Rainbow over the Thames.
6) Arsehole driver beeping at me for having the temerity to overtake a stopped bus while he couldn't. I had an enjoyable rant at him at the inevitable next red light, 50 yards down the road. He left his windows up and I just kept talking at him until the lights changed again. I almost caught him at the next set too, which would have been even more satisfying.

That's a whole month's worth of stuff.

Sounds 'eventful' ......  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 15 May, 2012, 11:27:03 pm
Bloody wet commute in today. But, as I remarked to another cyclist waiting at the traffic lights before Vauxhall Bridge 'I would rather do this than sit in the effing bus behind us who has just beeped us'. The bus driver felt that we should have moved beyond the pedestrian crossing  ???

Coming home at around Nunhead I heard a squishy squishy noise emitting from my back wheel. Felt the tyre, it seemed fine. Then I got to Ladywell Fields and the bike felt heavier and heavier. Gahhhh, bloody p*nct*re. Should have known. Looking forward to picking up those Schwalbe tyres tomorrow  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 15 May, 2012, 11:45:34 pm
Buses and Shwalbes reminds me. I'm working a mixture of days and nights this week so I can't work out when I saw it, but I was following a bus and on the back was a nice big advert for Shwalbe tyres. It struck me as being a good marker for the advance of cycling in London. There are enough of us now and we're worth selling to.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 May, 2012, 08:52:46 am
H_W, sorry I wasn't around this time.  I'll try harder in future.

Schwalbes would be a great move.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 16 May, 2012, 11:53:17 am
Around Thorton Heath Pond, I saw what I think were a couple of Police Cyclists.  Since this isn't a junction where you necessarily want to spend a lot of time rubbernecking, I'm not too sure that's who they were, but they had matching masses of high-vis on, which is normally a sign of Police cyclists.  When you get two large blokes, on quite a warm day, wearing a lot of high vis, you know they aren't your average club run cyclists.

The odd thing was, that there bikes were very red (and this comes from me, with Red).  The frames were red, but more unusually, so were the rims on the wheels (I didn't have a chance to see more than that in passing).

I probably should have gone back and seen what the wheels were, so I could get some similar rims for Red. ;D

It's possibly that they weren't police (who tend to have white or black bikes).  Do the London Fire brigade have any cyclists?  The colour scheme would be appropriate, but I can't see why they'd use bicycles!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 16 May, 2012, 12:14:24 pm
Last night was awful, serious headwind and ruddy HAIL! Bouncing off the floor it was.

Great this morning, sun, no wind, no muppetry and a good average of 18.5mph, the god of traffic lights was smiling on me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 16 May, 2012, 12:21:14 pm
Quote from: TimO on 16 May, 2012, 11:53:17 am
It's possibly that they weren't police (who tend to have white or black bikes).  Do the London Fire brigade have any cyclists?  The colour scheme would be appropriate, but I can't see why they'd use bicycles!

I suppose you could get a couple of extinguishers and some medical kit to the scene of an accident through gridlocked traffic with a bicycle, though I'd have thought a motorcycle would be a better choice.

Or there's all that non-emergency work firefighters do, like installing smoke alarms and telling people not to use chip pans...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 May, 2012, 12:23:44 pm
Ah, but could they rescue kittens, or are they just part of the kitten-bothering cyclist mob?

Quote from: AndyK on 16 May, 2012, 12:11:50 pm
Cycling's kitten bothering shame exposed (http://magazine.bikeradar.com/2012/05/15/cyclings-kitten-bothering-shame/#.T7NxbzP8P_Q.twitter).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 16 May, 2012, 12:24:56 pm
Oooh that (the bit about police bikes) reminds me,  I saw 2 cycle bobbies turn left on red last night, with all the furor going on, really made me laugh
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 16 May, 2012, 12:25:31 pm
Quote from: Kim on 16 May, 2012, 12:21:14 pm
Quote from: TimO on 16 May, 2012, 11:53:17 am
It's possibly that they weren't police (who tend to have white or black bikes).  Do the London Fire brigade have any cyclists?  The colour scheme would be appropriate, but I can't see why they'd use bicycles!

I suppose you could get a couple of extinguishers and some medical kit to the scene of an accident through gridlocked traffic with a bicycle, though I'd have thought a motorcycle would be a better choice.

Or there's all that non-emergency work firefighters do, like installing smoke alarms and telling people not to use chip pans...

I don't know if LFB have adopted bikes but I have helped some Fire and Rescue Services implement cycle patrols as a tactic to tackle arson attacks- predominantly in parkland and the like.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 May, 2012, 12:25:48 pm
Quote from: Si_Co on 16 May, 2012, 12:24:56 pm
Oooh that (the bit about police bikes) reminds me,  I saw 2 cycle bobbies turn left on red last night, with all the furor going on, really made me laugh

They were probably in hot pursuit.






Of coffee and doughnuts.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 16 May, 2012, 12:29:16 pm
Quote from: clarion on 16 May, 2012, 12:25:48 pm
Quote from: Si_Co on 16 May, 2012, 12:24:56 pm
Oooh that (the bit about police bikes) reminds me,  I saw 2 cycle bobbies turn left on red last night, with all the furor going on, really made me laugh

They were probably in hot pursuit.






Of coffee and doughnuts.

You underestimate our Police Service Clarion. We only hotly pursue bacon butties.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 May, 2012, 12:30:16 pm
My apologies.  But policy may vary with individual Forces ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 16 May, 2012, 12:39:09 pm
I think they were hotly pursuing anywhere out of the bleedin hail
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 16 May, 2012, 12:42:37 pm
I've seen fire brigade bikes before now. I once (at least 5 years ago) met a fireman on a ride who was hoping to bring them in as emergency response vehicles in the centre of London to get to situations before the tenders and start assessing the situations. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 16 May, 2012, 12:49:54 pm
Quote from: benborp on 15 May, 2012, 11:45:34 pm
Buses and Shwalbes reminds me. I'm working a mixture of days and nights this week so I can't work out when I saw it, but I was following a bus and on the back was a nice big advert for Shwalbe tyres. It struck me as being a good marker for the advance of cycling in London. There are enough of us now and we're worth selling to.

I spotted one of these on the commute this morning.  I briefly considered grabbing a photo, then thought that my position between two lanes of stop/start traffic was not the best opportunity for photography.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 16 May, 2012, 12:52:08 pm
There does seem to be a slight history (http://www.utilitycycling.org/2009/12/fire-service-bicycles/) of the fire services using bicycles.  In the modern era, as others have said, it seems to be restricted predominantly to patrolling in problematic areas, for things like arson, although I'd tend to think that this ought to more appropriately be done by the police.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 16 May, 2012, 12:55:15 pm
Quote from: TimO on 16 May, 2012, 12:52:08 pm
There does seem to be a slight history (http://www.utilitycycling.org/2009/12/fire-service-bicycles/) of the fire services using bicycles.  In the modern era, as others have said, it seems to be restricted predominantly to patrolling in problematic areas, for things like arson, although I'd tend to think that this ought to more appropriately be done by the police.

Fire prevention is a Fire and Rescue task- including reduction in arson.

We investigate the resulting crimes but work with Fire and Rescue to assist in their preventative role.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 May, 2012, 12:56:08 pm
Quote from: benborp on 15 May, 2012, 11:45:34 pm
Buses and Shwalbes reminds me. I'm working a mixture of days and nights this week so I can't work out when I saw it, but I was following a bus and on the back was a nice big advert for Shwalbe tyres. It struck me as being a good marker for the advance of cycling in London. There are enough of us now and we're worth selling to.

Not such good advertising that it left you with the correct spelling of 'Schwalbe' ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 16 May, 2012, 01:42:59 pm
I wondered where to put this..... silly sign? On the road? I decided that I saw it on my commute so...

(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-f16bSK4I7sk/T7Nts13fLsI/AAAAAAAAgxw/wQtEqdcb5ZA/s640/Photo0281.jpg)

Bear in mind that in London Wall

(a) there is no cycle lane at this point
(b) where there is cycle lane marking they are on the road
(c) the obstruction here is about 3m of roadworks taking out one lane
(d) that is pathetic by London roadworks standards

BUT ........

I prefer this sign 1,000,000% to the usual "cyclists dismount" so lets hope we see more of htem
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 May, 2012, 01:48:40 pm
At the roadworks at Clapham Common, there has been a sign telling motorists not to overtake cyclists.  Pointless, as they have been travelling slower than us anyway, but I appreciate the sentiment.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 16 May, 2012, 02:29:19 pm
As a generic sign to put out at roadworks (so whether or not there's a cycle lane isn't really important), that's a pretty good idea.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 May, 2012, 02:51:49 pm
'put out' or 'pull out'?  It makes an important difference.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 17 May, 2012, 08:01:12 am
Nearly home last night and moved out to pass a staionary bus and a muppet overtook me at the same time, cue a WTF wave from me, so he tried to swerved into me, which tbh I was expecting and avoided and off he goes to join the traffic jam 500 yards down the road. I'd noticed he'd got his window down so as i went past on the offside gave a massive shout of 'd1ckhe@d' through the window. Scared him so much his foot slipped off the clutch and it stalled  ;D  Good job he'd got the handbrake on I think.

Cracking ride this morning been struggling for speed all week really, it's not been coming easy, but an average of 19.2 mph with not a huge effort made for a really good ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 17 May, 2012, 09:49:09 am
A great ride in this morning once I'd got over the major bonk on the ascent of Quarry Wood Road. Even managed to scalp a fellow commuter as we paralleled the railway line twixt Cookham and Maidenhead.

It got very entertaining for spectators at the end however. I arrived at the back gate to Maidenhead nick and, as I was leaning forward to open the gate (weight on left leg) I suffered a sudden and quite significant cramp attack in my left calf. Cue much cursing and hopping and stuff.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 May, 2012, 09:57:49 am
What a lovely ride in this morning!  Wind & rain gone.  Not exactly warm, but sunny.  Bike & legs working in harmony.  Could have kept going for miles and miles.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 17 May, 2012, 10:53:20 am
Did my usual ride in to Southwark from Bromley but instead of the usual route, went via Catford, Nunhead and Peckham in order to call in at a friend's new cafe in Nunhead - The Dish & The Spoon (http://www.thedishandthespoon.co.uk/).

Well worth the detour - had a really well-made cappuccino and a superb vegan apricot flapjack. Tbh, I was slightly sceptical - vegan flapjack? Surely the butter is the best bit? Apparently not. Really tasty, and packed with lots of other good stuff (seeds & spices) as well as apricots.

She also says they're getting cycle racks installed outside the cafe soon, which is even more reason for you all to call in if you're in the area.

It was a good ride too - despite the slightly longer route and the stop, I didn't get to work any later. Partly down to the nice tailwind, perhaps, but also partly because the route completely avoids the gert big lump at Crystal Palace. Possibly fewer traffic lights too.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 17 May, 2012, 11:19:52 am
Rabbits eh? Thicker than a yard of lard or not? Discuss.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 17 May, 2012, 01:29:54 pm
Spotted a cyclist wearing a dark blue or black baseball cap with a helmet on RHS handlebar & a red baseball cap in his left hand  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 17 May, 2012, 01:41:45 pm
Quote from: Pingu on 17 May, 2012, 01:29:54 pm
Spotted a cyclist wearing a dark blue or black baseball cap with a helmet on RHS handlebar & a red baseball cap in his left hand  ???

That could well have been me (except it wasn't today). I get kind of neurotic about burning my bald patch if the sun has any liklihood of appearing and tend to carry multiple hats with me - lest I lose one. A helmet on the handlebar is quite useful for protecting the brake levers in the work bike racks when they become overcrowded.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 17 May, 2012, 04:15:39 pm
Cracking ride in this morning, livened up no end by my failed attempt to keep up with a young woman half my age, half my weight and double my fitness.  In my defence I have been doing some running this week and my legs are a bit discombobulated.

Great fun though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 17 May, 2012, 06:32:00 pm
Had a fight with a bus today. Rising over London Bridge, where there are two lanes and a bus lane. I was in the centre lane overtaking a line of stationary buses at, I'd guess, about 22-24mph. Sod pulled straight across my path from the bus stop into the right hand lane. Cue sharp braking and much gnashing of teeth.  A hundred yards on and he is stuck in the traffic so I pulled alongside for a friendly word (genuinely - I've usually found that when you talk to bus drivers they genuinely don't realise how scary it is when they pull out as you're passing them). Friendly word doesn't work,  leading to more heated exchange.  Cue police, who were standing on the island in the middle of the bridge, getting involved. Driver taken to one side and given talking to; me told that if I was unhappy with a driver's behaviour I should report it to the police (Ha Ha).  No further action but hopefully driver will be a bit more careful in future. Or probably not.

Not a great start to the day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 17 May, 2012, 07:06:56 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 17 May, 2012, 10:53:20 am
Did my usual ride in to Southwark from Bromley but instead of the usual route, went via Catford, Nunhead and Peckham in order to call in at a friend's new cafe in Nunhead - The Dish & The Spoon (http://www.thedishandthespoon.co.uk/).

Well worth the detour - had a really well-made cappuccino and a superb vegan apricot flapjack. Tbh, I was slightly sceptical - vegan flapjack? Surely the butter is the best bit? Apparently not. Really tasty, and packed with lots of
other good stuff (seeds & spices) as well as apricots.

She also says they're getting cycle racks installed outside the cafe soon, which is even more reason for you all to call in if you're in the area.
It was a good ride too - despite the slightly longer route and the stop, I didn't get to work any later. Partly down to the nice tailwind, perhaps, but also partly because the route completely avoids the gert big lump at Crystal Palace. Possibly fewer traffic lights too.

d.

This cafe is on my commute, Cheltenham Rd.  I must pop in sometime.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 17 May, 2012, 07:42:13 pm
Pootled to work, then to Moorgate for a meeting, then to the Wimmin's library near Aldgate to buy tickets for a talk named Cycling to Suffrage, and then home over London Bridge. I'm not sure why, but whenever I cycle in the City I see some really poor driving and cycling. Probably just the sheer volume of people, I guess.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 17 May, 2012, 08:14:04 pm
Quote from: Si_Co on 17 May, 2012, 08:01:12 am
... an average of 19.2 mph with not a huge effort made for a really good ride.

Git!!!

I was feeling really chuffed with myself for getting my weeks rolling average up to 15.1mph by this evening.
Then I read that.  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 17 May, 2012, 08:16:59 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 17 May, 2012, 07:42:13 pm
Pootled to work, then to Moorgate for a meeting, then to the Wimmin's library near Aldgate to buy tickets for a talk named Cycling to Suffrage, and then home over London Bridge. I'm not sure why, but whenever I cycle in the City I see some really poor driving and cycling. Probably just the sheer volume of people, I guess.

Really?  My biggest concern in the City is peds.

The headwind this evening was not fun.  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 17 May, 2012, 09:13:05 pm
I rang my bell at the peds, they were the least of my concerns. I had taxis and coaches doing ultra-close passes, and cyclists undertaking me or cutting me up so I had to brake sharply so we didn't clip wheels, or filtering where there really wasn't enough space to do so and between moving buses/trucks, that kind of thing. Maybe I don't go the best routes; I always take main roads so I don't have to spend ages looking at the map in less familiar areas.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 17 May, 2012, 09:16:57 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 17 May, 2012, 08:16:59 pm


The headwind this evening was not fun.  :(

I was cycling into that headwind on my way to the City from my office. It's even less fun on a sit-up-and-beg singlespeed...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 17 May, 2012, 11:16:19 pm
Quote from: jane on 17 May, 2012, 07:06:56 pm
This cafe is on my commute, Cheltenham Rd.  I must pop in sometime.

 :thumbsup:

Friend or not, I was genuinely impressed, so I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 17 May, 2012, 11:16:35 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 17 May, 2012, 10:53:20 am
Did my usual ride in to Southwark from Bromley but instead of the usual route, went via Catford, Nunhead and Peckham in order to call in at a friend's new cafe in Nunhead - The Dish & The Spoon (http://www.thedishandthespoon.co.uk/).

Well worth the detour - had a really well-made cappuccino and a superb vegan apricot flapjack. Tbh, I was slightly sceptical - vegan flapjack? Surely the butter is the best bit? Apparently not. Really tasty, and packed with lots of other good stuff (seeds & spices) as well as apricots.

She also says they're getting cycle racks installed outside the cafe soon, which is even more reason for you all to call in if you're in the area.

It was a good ride too - despite the slightly longer route and the stop, I didn't get to work any later. Partly down to the nice tailwind, perhaps, but also partly because the route completely avoids the gert big lump at Crystal Palace. Possibly fewer traffic lights too.

d.

Methinks I'll have to check that out.
I lived in Gautrey Road, a stone's throw away until not so long ago.....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 18 May, 2012, 06:22:09 am
Quote from: Jurek on 17 May, 2012, 11:16:35 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 17 May, 2012, 10:53:20 am
Did my usual ride in to Southwark from Bromley but instead of the usual route, went via Catford, Nunhead and Peckham in order to call in at a friend's new cafe in Nunhead - The Dish & The Spoon (http://www.thedishandthespoon.co.uk/).

Well worth the detour - had a really well-made cappuccino and a superb vegan apricot flapjack. Tbh, I was slightly sceptical - vegan flapjack? Surely the butter is the best bit? Apparently not. Really tasty, and packed with lots of other good stuff (seeds & spices) as well as apricots.

She also says they're getting cycle racks installed outside the cafe soon, which is even more reason for you all to call in if you're in the area.

It was a good ride too - despite the slightly longer route and the stop, I didn't get to work any later. Partly down to the nice tailwind, perhaps, but also partly because the route completely avoids the gert big lump at Crystal Palace. Possibly fewer traffic lights too.

d.

Methinks I'll have to check that out.
I lived in Gautrey Road, a stone's throw away until not so long ago.....

Vegan and cyclist friendly, what's not to like?  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 18 May, 2012, 06:51:44 am
Quote from: Andrij on 17 May, 2012, 08:16:59 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 17 May, 2012, 07:42:13 pm
Pootled to work, then to Moorgate for a meeting, then to the Wimmin's library near Aldgate to buy tickets for a talk named Cycling to Suffrage, and then home over London Bridge. I'm not sure why, but whenever I cycle in the City I see some really poor driving and cycling. Probably just the sheer volume of people, I guess.

Really?  My biggest concern in the City is peds.

The headwind this evening was not fun.  :(
The only time I have ever collided with a pedestrian was in the city, mid 80's.  I was delivering in the area, one very wet, murky day.  Some suit ran out into the road, and I just didn't see him.  Wham!  He seemed unhurt, he had a bit of padding.  In those days, I had none and was quite scraped and bleeding.  However, the main thing that bothered me was, although my wheel rim was fine (maybe because it was steel) several spokes were broken and there was no way I could ride.  Which meant I couldn't work for at least the rest of that day.    I went absolutely ballistic, I guess it was partly the adrenalin.  He tried to get past me but I just kept blocking him and asking what he was going to do about it.  He finally pulled a fifty pound note out of his wallet and thrust it into my hand, asking if that was enough.  I was too surprised to say no (which I would have if I had had my wits about me) because fifty pounds was a fair bit of money back
then. It was enough to mend the wheel and pay me for a day. But not as much as I could, or should, have have got from him, I think.  I just took it, naive fool that I was.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 18 May, 2012, 08:03:59 am
Quote from: Wonky on 17 May, 2012, 08:14:04 pm
Quote from: Si_Co on 17 May, 2012, 08:01:12 am
... an average of 19.2 mph with not a huge effort made for a really good ride.

Git!!!

I was feeling really chuffed with myself for getting my weeks rolling average up to 15.1mph by this evening.
Then I read that.  :-[

If my commute was mostly urban I'd be pretty pleased with that too Wonky, as it is mine morning route is about 70% rural so no TL's, it's junctions  where average speed is lost. Besides I'm paying for it today since I was absolutley flying last night as well to cover 10.2 mile in just over 28 mins.

Woke up with aching legs and that damn headwind this morning meant today's average was was just 17.2. Very nearly a nasty smash in front of me this morning as I was waiting to turn right behind a car at the junction of Park road / Manchester road, due to some muppet coming the other way running the red as she was stuck in 'must pass cyclist' mode. The cyclist in front of her had the wind on his back and was a good 20 yards ahead probably touching 30 mph. The light wasn't even close to amber, luckily he'd spotted it coming and took evasive action to give muppet somewhere to go.  ::-)
Title: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 18 May, 2012, 08:29:40 am
Quote from: Gandalf on 18 May, 2012, 06:22:09 am
Vegan and cyclist friendly, what's not to like?  :thumbsup:

It's not all vegan, mind - they also have quite an impressive selection of cheese and charcuterie!

d.
Title: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 18 May, 2012, 08:36:21 am
Quote from: Si_Co on 18 May, 2012, 08:03:59 am
If my commute was mostly urban I'd be pretty pleased with that too Wonky, as it is mine morning route is about 70% rural so no TL's, it's junctions  where average speed is lost.

Indeed. I usually average 24-26km/h on my urban routes, but I did the rural 26km route this morning and averaged 33km/h. Only had to slow down momentarily for a level crossing, otherwise it was full gas all the way. 8)

There may have been a hint of a tailwind... ;)

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 18 May, 2012, 08:39:32 am
Quote from: Andrij on 17 May, 2012, 08:16:59 pm


The headwind this evening was not fun.  :(

Yeah, what was that about? Who ordered it? Oh, it could be because I was going back the long way round via Haverstock Hill with both airbrakes panniers loaded .... (My physio is at the top of the 'ill - two for the price of one - cardio and physio ;) )
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 18 May, 2012, 09:55:13 am
Last night. WTF!?  Bonking after 10 or 11 miles on a 14 mile trip!?  It's not as if I didn't eat enough yesterday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 18 May, 2012, 10:18:37 am
Quote from: TheLurker on 18 May, 2012, 09:55:13 am
Last night. WTF!?  Bonking after 10 or 11 miles on a 14 mile trip!?  It's not as if I didn't eat enough yesterday.

Over-eating can cause it, especially close to the time of you setting off on the bike, as your blood supply is diverted to the stomach to assist in the digestion of said food and the carrying away of the bits your body doesn't need.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 18 May, 2012, 10:21:11 am
I had a moment of sheer terror on the Old Kent Road this morning.  A pedestrian stepped off the kerb just as I was whizzing past.  I was possibly closer to the kerb than was ideal, with partial hindsight: I suspect there'd been some reason for me to be closer than normal as I'm normally pretty keen to be well clear of the kerb.  She simply failed to look.  I think she may have been watching the cyclist ahead of me.  I gave an involuntary but timely shout as I skimmed her bows and she let out some sort of stifled yelp.  If I'd been a fraction slower I'm sure I would have bounced and, on the basis of Newtonian physics I don't supposed the impact would have shifted her very much, but I've have been cartwheeling down the tarmac all the way to Elephant.

But apart from that a nice smooth ride a bit over my 12mph average.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 18 May, 2012, 10:55:34 am
The upshot of being fast on the first leg of my commute was that I made the early train, which was an unexpected bonus. So I took advantage and got in a second ride. Took it a little easier, though, and did a bit more route experimentation. I think I've sussed a flatter, quicker route from Bromley than the one I've been using. I don't think I'll use it regularly, because I actually quite enjoy the climb over Crystal Palace, but it's good to know I've got the option for days when I don't fancy it.

PaulR - I also encountered a pedestrian with suicidal tendencies this morning, but it was at a place where I know to expect such behaviour so there was no danger of me hitting him. Normally, I'd let it go, but I was a bit fired up, so as I passed him, I did my best sergeant major impersonation*, giving him the "Eyes... RIGHT!" command. Not big or clever, but I amused myself at least.

Total of 44km this morning, which is a pretty decent start to the day.

d.

*think Windsor Davies (one for older readers)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 18 May, 2012, 12:41:42 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 18 May, 2012, 10:55:34 am

PaulR - I also encountered a pedestrian with suicidal tendencies this morning, but it was at a place where I know to expect such behaviour so there was no danger of me hitting him. Normally, I'd let it go, but I was a bit fired up, so as I passed him, I did my best sergeant major impersonation*, giving him the "Eyes... RIGHT!" command. Not big or clever, but I amused myself at least.


*think Windsor Davies (one for older readers)

Would it have been more disconcerting for him if you had you called him a 'Lovely Boy'.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 18 May, 2012, 12:56:33 pm
Quote from: Nuncio on 18 May, 2012, 12:41:42 pm
Would it have been more disconcerting for him if you had you called him a 'Lovely Boy'.

If only that had occurred to me at the time!  ;D

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 18 May, 2012, 01:13:03 pm
Collided with two pedestrians. It was at low speed, no injuries or damage on either side, there's quite some advantage to falling from a low height. My first in some 40,000 mostly London miles. They walked through traffic, on the verge of running, and looking the wrong way. Can't help feeling slightly guilty, but I don't think it was my fault. Looking back on the video I had one very brief opportunity to spot them before they went behind a tall MPV with slightly darkened windows, and I didn't see them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: phantasmagoriana on 18 May, 2012, 07:31:58 pm
Decided to extend my commute home from just over 3 to nearly 19 miles. It was fun, despite ominous-looking skies and a headwind for quite a chunk of the way! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dinamo on 18 May, 2012, 08:29:28 pm
Stopped off in Westbury on Trym this evening to use a local shop, locking my bike to the 'local parish news noticeboard' so that I could see my bike whilst shopping.
On returning to my bike a note had been attached to it requesting that I use the bike racks provided and NOT the noticeboard !

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 18 May, 2012, 08:31:57 pm
Saw one female cyclist this morning going through the red lights at New Cross. Did not mention to her that there was a police car behind us, she wasn't that observant. I was fairly pleased to see further along the road that the police car had pulled her over. She also had a 'Lewisham Safety' hi-viz cover on her backpack  ::-)

Less of a headwind on the way home but saw the opposing commuters struggling. Got over Vauxhall Bridge and it was pretty snarled up. It became apparent that there was a collision between a motocyclist and this huge f*ck off lorry, lots of police taking witness statements from car drivers, but the good news was that the motorcyclist was sat up and being helped.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 18 May, 2012, 10:18:05 pm
I got a very pleasant phone call from a manger at the firm I emailed, he said the driver admitted what she'd done and was "used to a Fiesta". I was well impressed, he'd done some digging to find her and she fessed up straight away. I may buy a tv off them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 19 May, 2012, 07:51:48 am
A concious decision to pootle to conserve some energy for leisure riding tomorrow coupled with quite a stiff headwind meant an average of only 15.1 today but really enjoyed it, the quiet roads make it so much more enjoyable and mean you can notice things you don't on a 'must get the average up and watch for idiots' style commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 19 May, 2012, 09:52:48 am
Whereas spurred on by our previous conversation, I didn't notice much, but got my weekly rolling average up from 15.1 to 15.3 on the morning run, and up to 15.4 on the return trip.
Some sums tell me that my morning run was therefore 17.1  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 19 May, 2012, 11:23:36 am
^^  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 19 May, 2012, 11:54:36 am
Quote from: Dinamo on 18 May, 2012, 08:29:28 pm
On returning to my bike a note had been attached to it requesting that I use the bike racks provided and NOT the noticeboard !

You should have left a reply: "Please use the noticeboard provided and not my bike."

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 19 May, 2012, 06:36:02 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 19 May, 2012, 11:54:36 am
Quote from: Dinamo on 18 May, 2012, 08:29:28 pm
On returning to my bike a note had been attached to it requesting that I use the bike racks provided and NOT the noticeboard !

You should have left a reply: "Please use the noticeboard provided and not my bike."

d.


I got a panicked phone call from the caretaker of our building on Thursday asking if I had a purple Raleigh. He was ringing every known cyclist in the building trying to find out the owner as he/she had locked their bike to another bike rather than the bike rack.  And owner of said other bike was keen to go home.

Turned out to be my boss, who was out of the office... but happily had left her keys on her desk :-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 19 May, 2012, 07:13:00 pm
Quote from: yellowhammer on 19 May, 2012, 07:09:47 pm
I left him trying to put a shoe on using no hands but with the shoe wedged in his bottle cage. ;D I did tentatively offer to lock his bike up and call someone for him but he wasn't having it (and was big and scary) so I left him to it.

Brilliant!  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 21 May, 2012, 12:17:18 pm
Fantastic weather, lots more please
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 21 May, 2012, 12:58:35 pm
On the road at 8 today rather than 6 because I had to sign for a letter at the depot.  There were so many cars on the road at the later time I was slowed down at a few points.  I didn't realize it got that bad.  Perhaps it's about time we considered whether we should allow them to continue using the roads if they hold us cyclists up so much.  They don't pay road tax, you know.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bloomers100 on 22 May, 2012, 07:24:12 am
Funny old mist out in Essex this morning. But I got a tail wind for my birthday. Yay!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 22 May, 2012, 07:36:09 am
Absolutely flying today, truly shocked to find an average of 21 mph. There may have been a hint of a tailwind  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 22 May, 2012, 08:02:24 am
Ouch, ouch, ouch.  No, not an off, just sore from time spent in the gym yesterday.  Still, managed to move pretty quickly.  The less crowded roads at silly o'clock probably helped.

Today was the first ride in wearing nothing but summer gear, though it was a bit chilly at the start.  If I get out of work at a decent hour today I may pootle home along the river.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 May, 2012, 09:13:07 am
Ouch, ouch, ouch here, too.  I have a stiff back, which prevented me from getting to work yesterday.  Lots of paracetomol got me out for a short ride to Croydon yesterday which convinced me I was OK, but the ride in this morning has been less than fun.

Riding along was OK.  Potholes/rough surfaces were not. :(

But, yes, it was shorts weather, and I was a bit warm in my long-sleeved jersey.  Summer is coming.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 22 May, 2012, 09:47:41 am
This morning I quickly got over my mild irritation with a chap on one of those Piaggio motorised tricycle-scooter things - all he'd done was cut across me to the left to squeeze up between a bus and the kerb, clipping my front wheel at low speed, and then have second thoughts and cut back to the right again, nearly hitting me again before telling me I should be on the left, all of which was predictable and manageable and didn't really represent much of a threat to anyone's safety or happiness.

But then I got all sad at the north end of Waterloo Bridge because of an irate cyclist who'd tried to barge me aside from the right in order to change lanes.  I was heading straight up the painted bike lane in the middle of the carriageway and he was in the lane to my right.  I suspect that he'd been a bit slow to notice there was a big red stationary double decker bus blocking the lane he was in, and didn't fancy slowing down for something like that.  Anyway, as I hadn't had a chance to check whether it would be safe for me to do a sudden unsignalled swerve into the lane on my left (and anyway that's the left-turn lane and I didn't want tohead down the Strand) I stuck to my line in the expectation that he'd realise he needed to slow down before making any lane change in my direction.  He made gentle contact with my saddlebag as he attempted to change lane onto me.  There followed a torrent of foul-mouthed abuse (which on reflection made me wonder if he'd slipped off his saddle onto the top tube) accompanied by some aggressive pushing in the ASL area.  In the dense, dreary, unimaginative and repetitive litany of swearwords, he said a couple of interesting things:

(a) "I was ahead of you and you should have given way"

That sounds a bit like those boat races on rivers that are too narrow for safe overtaking, where the leading boat has to pull in when another boat's bow overlaps their stern - is Bumps the right term? - but I didn't know that had been introduced on our roads.  Should I slam on the brakes whenever I think someone in the lane to my right might want to move into the lane I'm using?

(b)  "We're all cyclists, we should stick together, you f***ing a***hole"

As I pointed out to him, if cyclists are meant to stick together, why the barging and swearing?  Noticing his "Save Herne Hill Velodrome" cap (with upturned peak under his helmet, to complement the Bianchi road bike and general Robbie McEwen approach to sharing a crowded road) I suggested that folk at the track might not be so grateful to be saved by someone like him.

Oh well, better get on with some work now.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 22 May, 2012, 09:51:03 am
reading that, I am really, really glad I don't commute in that there London Town

"There's a hole in the ground and its name is London, etc"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 22 May, 2012, 09:56:57 am
Bit later today as my son wanted to ride to school as he has cycle training today :thumbsup:. Traffic heavier than I'm used to

saw the aftermath or an accident, apparently a minicab had tried to left hook a cyclist on the superhighway along Millbank. I yelled to stop the driver from helping her up, disentangled her from her bike and (with her consent) undid her helmet. By this time someone was calling an ambulance, a first aider was there as well and a couple of witnesses (including the taxi passenger) were there so I moved on as I couldn't really add to the situation. The lady was in pain, she thought she'd broken a rib, hope that it was nothing worse.

should I have stayed until the emergency services arrived?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 May, 2012, 09:58:39 am
I think, in the circs, I would have.

Did you leave your details?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 22 May, 2012, 10:27:35 am
No, as I hadn't seen the accident, just the aftermath and she was being well cared for I felt I was going to be one of the onlookers. To be honest I'm still a little in shock by it now so probably wasn't thinking clearly
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 22 May, 2012, 10:33:36 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 22 May, 2012, 09:51:03 am
reading that, I am really, really glad I don't commute in that there London Town

"There's a hole in the ground and its name is London, etc"

Yep, I quite often wonder why on earth I still live here.  But on the whole it's great to be one cyclist among the many thousands, most of whom are perfectly agreeable and sensible, and I'd find it hard to adjust to not being within easy cycling distance of work, not to mention all the wonders that the metropolis offers in the way of museums, galleries, concert halls, observatories, shops, random royal flotillas, friends, food, BoJo etc.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 May, 2012, 10:35:15 am
I know why I'm here.  I have to have a good reason.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 22 May, 2012, 10:40:58 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 22 May, 2012, 09:51:03 am
reading that, I am really, really glad I don't commute in that there London Town

"There's a hole in the ground and its name is London, etc"

It's not all bad, in fact most of the time commuting here is wonderful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 22 May, 2012, 10:50:33 am
Quote from: Wendy on 22 May, 2012, 10:40:58 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 22 May, 2012, 09:51:03 am
reading that, I am really, really glad I don't commute in that there London Town

"There's a hole in the ground and its name is London, etc"

It's not all bad, in fact most of the time commuting here is wonderful.

Hmm.. this morning I started a new commute into High Street Kensington as I am on secondment to a different library for a month. Chelsea Bridge Road was an absolute nightmare  :o West London is such a congested place. Still at least the A202 earlier had an almost critical mass of cyclists on it around Peckham way this morning  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 22 May, 2012, 10:52:23 am
Well with all this talk of London, my commute for the next three days is 2 miles along quiet country lanes up near York - on a training course and brought the Brompton - it was lovely!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 22 May, 2012, 01:09:32 pm
Yesterdays commute honme was in cool summer mode (Shorts and short sleeved jersey over a light wicking base layer and was lovely.

This mornings ride in was in cool summer morning mode (as above but with arm warmers). The arm warmers were removed at half way. Glorious ride again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 May, 2012, 02:10:49 pm
Getting hotttter in the city streets...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 22 May, 2012, 05:37:52 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 22 May, 2012, 10:40:58 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 22 May, 2012, 09:51:03 am
reading that, I am really, really glad I don't commute in that there London Town

"There's a hole in the ground and its name is London, etc"

It's not all bad, in fact most of the time commuting here is wonderful.

Yep. I particularly love cycling over the bridges and the buildings and the river are all glinting in the sunshine.

What the hell is that burnt toast smell round Kennington and Oval, though? I’ve been smelling it for months.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 22 May, 2012, 05:49:54 pm
hospital incinerator outlet in the vicinity?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 22 May, 2012, 06:12:10 pm
Isn't there a big coffee roasting place around there somewhere?  I used to get wafts of roasting coffee bean aroma on my commute in from the depths of SW20 to SW1 many years ago.  But maybe it's the battersea dog place.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 22 May, 2012, 07:00:14 pm
Total disaster for me on today's commute. :(

It all started very well. Nice and sunny. My new transmission gives much better gear ratios than the worn out one I replaced it with last night. It could have been great.

But when I got to work



























I had to stop :'(

Total disaster!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 22 May, 2012, 07:06:15 pm
I left work earlier than normal. Christ on a stick. I had to wait ages for a safe gap to leave the cycle path and get across the road to turn left at the roundabout. There are far too many cars on the road. Such a nice day for cycling too.

I sometimes cycle down the road to avoid this delay but usually I get aggressively abused for it if there's significant traffic. Sometimes if there's sod all.
Title: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 22 May, 2012, 07:33:56 pm
Warm, sunny and a tailwind? Two minutes off my PB for the regular post-work route? 30.2km/h average for the 18km?

Someone pinch me. ;D

d.


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 22 May, 2012, 08:24:29 pm
I had to avoid a very wobbly cyclist on my evening commute. 






Mind, she was only about eight and struggling up a slope on a shared pathe after having walked across a road. With her slightly worried looking mum following behind. It was actually a most cheering sight. Shame I was walking not riding, but it's not worth bringing the bike away with me at the moment. Roll on Thursday...


S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 22 May, 2012, 08:37:32 pm
Tourists!  Warm weather!  Instant blindness :-(   

The commute in was fine and the ride home was OK once I got out of the west end but I had to go over to Victoria for a meeting during the day and used a hire bike each way.  They were bloody everywhere, wandering around in the road in groups, standing at pedestrian crossings waiting for the lights to turn red before moving, disgorging from illegally parked left hand drive coaches without pausing for a moment to look before they stepped out into the road.  If I'd been collecting points I'd be getting the dishwasher, the car and the holiday for two in Portugal.   And it's only May.

(Can you tell that I haven't worked up in the west end for about 15 years?)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Speshact on 22 May, 2012, 10:08:28 pm
In the morning the school pupils I was training told me why using the narrow cycle lane next to the parked cars  in Lupus Street, Westminster, is not a good idea.

At lunchtime a WVM used his horn and van to try to force three cyclists, of which I was one, to use it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 May, 2012, 10:13:28 pm
I used to commute along Lupus St.  A place for taking the lane.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 23 May, 2012, 07:46:16 am
My legs are definetly telling that after 11 days consecutive riding they need a day off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 23 May, 2012, 07:59:10 am
Rural commutes have much to commend them, chiefly a notable lack of homicidal automobilists and an abundance of cute animals, but oil seed rape and "muck" spreading? That really isn't polite.

I shall be very glad when the bloody OSR has stopped flowering.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 23 May, 2012, 09:19:41 am
We have cow parsley and may bushes on Mitcham Common which are rather polleny. Also Plane trees and Horse Chesnuts.

My Commute this morning was zoomy! Especially for me. I was going so well at Brixton Hill that we avoided Brockwell Park and came down Tulse Hill instead, throwing in a loop of the one way system at Brixton Water lane, for good measure :D. It was a fantastic ride and I ended up with a 14.6 average which is 2 miles per hour faster than I have previously managed on that route :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 May, 2012, 09:40:19 am
Normally, Butterfly sets off while I lock the door, and I catch up by the first traffic light, or thereabouts.

This morning, she was off out the traps, and away.  I didn't catch her till well after the Ponds.  And she kept the pace up.  At one point, I had an average of 26.2kph! :o

A brief respite across Mitcham Common and past the level crossing, and I thought that she'd be slow up the hill, but she went for it. And kept going through Streatham.

By the time we'd done the extra loops, and got to her work, I was on 23.2kph average.  Normally, after kissing goodbye to Butterfly, I see how much I can build on the average through the backstreet route I take to work. This morning, I had dropped significantly by the time I'd crossed Brockwell Park.

Down Shakespeare Rd I sped, unhindered by the normal school traffic, since we were earlier than usual.  Into Camberwell, then past my work, looping right down New Kent Road, doubling back to Borough High St, then past Southwark, Blackfriars, Waterloo & Westminster bridges, before turning opposite Lambeth Bridge and taking advantage of the lack of students to get a nice clear run to work.  23.5kph.  Very happy with that, but I had had to work hard to keep the pace.

I'm very proud of Butterfly this morning.  it must have been the new green yacf jersey.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 23 May, 2012, 11:02:31 am
Quote from: clarion on 23 May, 2012, 09:40:19 am
I'm very proud of Butterfly this morning.  it must have been the new green yacf jersey.

 :-* That must be it! I will have to try TGL's old red one to see if that's any faster! ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 23 May, 2012, 11:11:22 am
Tipped the average over 30 again on the way in this morning - just. Admittedly, that was taking the flatter, faster route, though I did have a bit of a headwind to contend with.

I'm now quicker from Bromley to Southwark than my colleague who rides in on his 500cc motorbike.  8)  :smug:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 23 May, 2012, 01:09:12 pm
Chased by geese on the canal, sod white van man they are mental.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 23 May, 2012, 01:36:51 pm
Weird commute today: I only spent about a third of the time pedalling and when I got to work I felt as though I'd hardly ridden any distance at all.  These new-fangled derailleur gear things are quite clever, aren't they?  And that mechanism inside the cogs at the back that lets the hub spin without pulling the chain - magic!

I'll be on the train tomorrow (client's AGM in the evening where they want me to be on hand, but probably not in lycra) and will probably revert to fixed on Friday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Datameister on 23 May, 2012, 03:37:22 pm
Quote from: PaulR on 23 May, 2012, 01:36:51 pm
And that mechanism inside the cogs at the back that lets the hub spin without pulling the chain - magic!

Unless it breaks  :'(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 23 May, 2012, 04:27:43 pm
Quote from: Datameister on 23 May, 2012, 03:37:22 pm
Quote from: PaulR on 23 May, 2012, 01:36:51 pm
And that mechanism inside the cogs at the back that lets the hub spin without pulling the chain - magic!

Unless it breaks  :'(

Perhaps you two can discuss it during Queen Victoria's forthcoming jubilee celebrations
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 23 May, 2012, 04:54:01 pm
I didn't snap the chain on my fixed today.  :thumbsup:
That's because it's still snapped and I used a different bike.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 23 May, 2012, 05:43:30 pm
Came out of work to find a flat tyre  >:(  I think the tube was just aged.  Under 10 mins to fix, which isn't too bad for the rear wheel of a fixie.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 23 May, 2012, 07:46:49 pm
Glorious ride in apart from a mobile-wielding prick in a Merc who decided to turn right from the centre lane at the junction of the Embankment and Northumberland Avenue (as discussed here a few days ago).  Nearly took out a guy on a Brompton and got short shrift from me as he attempted to come around me on the left.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 23 May, 2012, 08:56:19 pm
Thought today would be a good day to try out the (cheap – this is relevant) new pannier bag as it was my first commute in a while (freshly back from the place formerly known as Yugoslavia*). It didn't quite fit on the rack owing to the disagreeable placement of metal parts, but a bit of plastic clamp bending got everything in place. In goes the laptop and metric shedload of other crap I feel obliged to take to work with me. All looks good. I set off, the sun in my hair, the wind in my eyes, or somesuch. Got as far as Forest Hill (where there is a hill, but no Forest) when a particularly brutal speed hump on the downhill side of Dacres Rd, combined with my disregard for sensible speeds decided to demonstrate the cheapness of said pannier. It ejected spectacularly and about as effectively as Goose in Top Gun, bumping down the road like a sack of angry leprechauns. The street cleaner at the roadside felt obliged to inform me that my bag had fallen off. I had noticed. He was probably confused by the lunatic grin on my face. I was happy, because the bag contained my piece of shit work laptop, which had just suffered multiple and surely unforgiving impacts with tarmac. Die. Die. Die. It also meant I could indulge myself in guilt-free lateness for a dull meeting about marketing lists.

So, I go home, awkwardly lugging the now terminal pannier (seriously, what the fuck is in it, a small blackhole) overflowing with unwholesome joy at the thought of emptying out the cracked plastics and dissociated components. I empty the pannier and it's intact. No worries, surely the sensitive innards would have taken umbrage at such a insult. Oh no, it boots up fine. I hate it. It's like the Terminator. I got a huge Serbian to punch it last week and it just hurt his hand. It won't die and they won't replace it. When the sun burns out and the Earth becomes uninhabitable, all that will be left is that laptop and Twinkies.

I could have stayed at home and worked from there, but I reloaded and relaunched. Fuck it, it's sunny, and I was egregiously late, but hey, I'm the boss. It was worth every moment. Well, other than the fact they were still talking about marketing lists when I arrived. Seriously, how late do I have to be to avoid that shit.

Pootled back home by the Thames and swallowed several flies. Not nice, but on balance, worse for them. Not sure why there is a cruise liner by Deptford Creek, but there you go. Personally, I'd not have picked Deptford Creek as my holiday hot spot.

*I only saw one cyclist in Belgrade and he was drunk and had an entire sofa balanced on the back of his bike. It didn't seem like it would end well. More cyclists in Novi Sad though. Fewer mobile sofas. They also have beer called Lav, which scores additional points for being refreshing yet appropriately named. Extra points to my driver for pointing out 'the badly dressed gangster hotel'. Apparently, there's just the one badly dressed ganster, and no one is brave enough to tell him. Let's face it, you're a bit of a shit gangster if people are dissing your wardrobe to your face.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 23 May, 2012, 08:59:17 pm
Direct route on the way back but veered off when 2 miles from home onto a 5 mile spur, because the moors were calling.

Gwrhyd chapel
(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7228/7257553712_37954c3c26_b.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/87345810@N00/7257553712/)
 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/87345810@N00/7257553712/)

(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7094/7257542702_8eca94f56e_b.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/87345810@N00/7257542702/)

There were some horny girls up there, including this one.
(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7218/7257530704_373e979011_b.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/87345810@N00/7257530704/)

 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/87345810@N00/7257530704/)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 23 May, 2012, 09:19:51 pm
Had to head into Eastbourne proper on my way into work to drop off an OU assignment, normally I drive on days I'm doing that but decided to cycle. But didn't manage to actually leave the house any earlier  ::-)

Did worry I might be a bit late to work but was fine, only took about ten minutes longer to do 19 miles today than I did for the 16 yesterday.

And took the longer way home too for a nice 38miles in total.

Soooo many bugs though along the marsh road, at one point I had my buff over my mouth, my eyes virtually shut and it sounded like it was raining as they all 'tinked' off my magic hat. Gotta get some prescription wrap-arounds.

But it still far beat sitting in the traffic in the car on a lovely day like today.

Think my legs will be tired tomorrow though, haven't done three days in a row in a while (normally do MWF) but may as well go for the full five now.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 23 May, 2012, 09:23:07 pm
Three maniacs today. I think the sun was too much for their brains to cope with.
First was a minicab driver that sideswiped me. There was impact, but I stayed on. I gave his window a serious whack, and called him a menace. He just flipped me the bird and drove off.
Second was a private hire Merc, that just turned right on me. A close call.

I got my Karma on the way home though. Whilst riding in the Bus lane, an Idiot in a silver Y reg Vauxhaull summat decided that waiting in the traffic wasn't for him, and just pulled into the bus lane in front of me. I was far enough behind that it was just an idiotic move, and not a deadly threat, but then he immediately stopped dead in the bus lane, and tried to turn back to the traffic lane causing me to very nearly crash into him. As I passed his right (I was committed by then)( I may have also clipped his mirror) I called out to the driver through the open window 'nice move numbnuts'. Then I saw why he had stopped. The vehicle 2 cars in front of the van he was undertaking was a police van.

Up to the side of the police van I pull, and tell them what has just happened. pointing back at Vauxhaull Numbnuts, who is clearly stuck in the bus lane. Out jump the police officers, who thank me for bringing this to their attention and send me on my way whilst they go and 'have a word'.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: seraphina on 23 May, 2012, 09:30:34 pm
My ego got the better of me on the way in - I clocked someone behind me on a speedybike on my long straight bit of road and for some reason I was buggered if he was going to catch me. He didn't and I got to work minutes quicker, and missing a few bits of lung ::-)

On the way home I saw two stoats, which was nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 23 May, 2012, 09:39:27 pm
Quote from: ian on 23 May, 2012, 08:56:19 pm
...
Pootled back home by the Thames and swallowed several flies. Not nice, but on balance, worse for them. Not sure why there is a cruise liner by Deptford Creek, but there you go. Personally, I'd not have picked Deptford Creek as my holiday hot spot.

(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-s1PE_WAGVKI/T71Kf835yFI/AAAAAAAABQE/6x95_mszuho/s720/P1020410.JPG)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ianrauk on 23 May, 2012, 10:59:50 pm
Quote from: ian on 23 May, 2012, 08:56:19 pm

Pootled back home by the Thames and swallowed several flies. Not nice, but on balance, worse for them. Not sure why there is a cruise liner by Deptford Creek, but there you go. Personally, I'd not have picked Deptford Creek as my holiday hot spot.


It's the last deep spot/moor on the Thames for such huge ships to dock.

I work on Deptford Creek and used to have such a wonderful view of the liners and ships that docked until the new development on the warf sprung up. (you can see the development to the right of Andrij' pic)

Have seen some nice boats over the years I have worked there.
HMS Ark Royal, HMS Invincible, HMS Illustrious, HMS Bulwork amongst others. Last week HMS Ocean was docked there.
We also see a lot of cruise liners docked The World (the cruise ship which is owned by it's residents on board) is a regular visitor.

A few years back a Russian warship docked, the first time since the war apparently. We had snipers on our roof and all sorts as Putin was visiting. The Russian sailors  ;liked to climb up over the creek wall to buy all the beer they could carry from the local off license.

Sorry for the boring reply...sometimes we are bored at work  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 24 May, 2012, 08:01:57 am
Top marks last night to the HGV driver who decided to follow safely all the way down Carrington Lane at a steady 20mph, made a real change from the treatment I usually get down there  :thumbsup:

Lovely easy ride this morning for an average of 16.8 mph, just rolling along with a big  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bloomers100 on 24 May, 2012, 08:34:53 am
Sandals in the fog! Took it easy but made good time.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hulver on 24 May, 2012, 09:15:43 am
Fantastic ride in this morning.

My first cycle commute accompanied by my fiancé :)

She was a bit worried by the traffic and went too quickly, but once we got off the main road and onto the trail that goes all the way to work, she was very happy.

Lovely ride in the sunshine. Really sets you up for the day  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 24 May, 2012, 09:26:03 am
Almost 30km in yesterday, and, after work, met Crock of Gold & Mice from CC, and Jurek, you all know, in Trafalgar Square for a pootle.  We headed down The Mall (biig mistake - avoid till after Jubilation) to Richmond Park.  We picked up another rider along the way, did a lap of the Park (during which the fifth rider peeled off homeward, and after which Jurek had to shoot off), then met Butterfly, and went for a drink or two in The Roebuck, watching an orange sun turn to red as it sank over the best view in London.

Then I rode home through the Park with Butterfly, and weaved through the streets homeward.  A shade over 55km.  Lovely.

This morning, Butterfly wasn't commuting in so early, so I used my previous commute along CS7.  Quite a few fast lads out, but also some idiots who didn't know how to ride a bike. :(

But it was a speedy ride overall, and I really enjoyed it.  I'm expecting a very sunny ride home this afternoon...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 24 May, 2012, 09:39:59 am
Friday commute onna Thursday.  Close passes by BMWs=3, by WVM=too many to count, on double corners when riding in the lane=one.  Thumbs up to Rodgers of York furniture van for the fast-ish but proper wide overtake.  Thumbs down to the Macdonalds of York furniture van, immediately behind him, for passing at the same speed with his wing mirror above my head.  Good job I'm a shortarse.... that's made all my future furniture purchasing decisions easier!  Sunshine, going Officially Bloody Fast when taking the lane at one point and it being appreciated by the truck behind, eponymous album by Allo Darlin' playing with the volume turned up to 11.  Bloomin' marvellous :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 24 May, 2012, 10:26:31 am
Quote from: ian on 23 May, 2012, 08:56:19 pm
bumping down the road like a sack of angry leprechauns

Do we have a Simile of the Day award? If not, we should establish one just for this. Marvellous.

Quote
Seriously, how late do I have to be to avoid that shit.

If my experience is anything to go by, at least three hours.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jimini on 24 May, 2012, 12:57:37 pm
Quote from: clarion on 24 May, 2012, 09:26:03 am
We headed down The Mall (biig mistake - avoid till after Jubilation)

Yep, that's altered my commute somewhat for the foreseeable future, definitely worth swerving. What time did you go through the area? There was a broken down coach slap bang in the middle of Buckingham Palace Road at about 6:45ish, right across the junction just as you come up to Victoria station. The traffic was delightful as I'm sure you can imagine!

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 24 May, 2012, 01:28:59 pm
About 1820, I suppose.  Bad enough even then.  Road Closed signs, security chaps ensuring cyclists dismount, vague tourists, clueless scaffers...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 24 May, 2012, 06:41:31 pm
first commute by bike for what feels like months due to work load and a convenient train.

What glorious conditions for a 15 mile trip. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 24 May, 2012, 07:36:12 pm
Managed to leave the house early this morning and extended the ride in to 20 miles, and extended the ride home to 21.5 (though I had to work that out on gmaps as I paused my computer at some point and forgot to get it going again  ::-)).

Lovely riding in the sun though I am getting mighty tired of the buggly bugs, especially the clouds of midges what keep trying to fill my mouth and eyes.

Now trying to decide whether to go camping after work tomorrow or go for a long night ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 May, 2012, 09:17:03 am
Lovely lovely ride.  Wel, as lovely as any ride through South London can be.  Glorious sunshine, hundreds of cyclists.  A very careful and considerate scrap metal truck driver.  Just a few numpties boiling in their mobile ovens.

I set off with Butterfly, who was on her Van Nicholas almost unladen.  That meant we could get a good pace up, and were on my commuting speed.

She was going to turn round at Mitcham Common, but decided to accompany me to Tooting Bec instead, which was delightful.  Then I kept on along CS7 past my normal exit and round Marshalsea before looping in to work.  I didn't have as long as normal, but managed 20km and still got to my desk at time.

I've not been commuting up CS7 much lately, so it was nice to see a couple of folk I recognise along the way. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 25 May, 2012, 09:17:17 am
Last night.  At last, the first patches of not yellow observed in the blanket coverage of OSR that we seem to have hereabouts.   Only several dozen fields left to go over.  Here's hoping the continuing hot weather brings it all to an end sooner rather than later.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 25 May, 2012, 09:17:35 am
On the final approach to the Death Star's exhaust pipe (or the last mile of the A52 into Derby which, lined either side by slow moving traffic switching lanes like motorised versions of the kids on Runaround, is almost as dangerous) I was conscious of being tailed by a motor bike.

I usually pull over to let them by, but there wasn't a convenient break in the traffic on either side of me, and we were almost at Pentagon Island anyway.

As the lanes split he scooted around me, but we ended up side by side at the lights.

He looked at my bike and said "My way's better".

I responded "My way's more fun".

The lights changed and he left me in a cloud of exhaust fumes stalled with half of Derby watching!

I laughed all the rest of the way to work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 May, 2012, 09:26:37 am
;D  On a similar note, I was riding over Westminster Bridge the other night, and wanting to turn right.  The junction's been changed, and the road markings are a bit confusing, but the PCSO should have known his three wheeled scooter thing was in an ASL.

Lights changed, and he went charging off into a group of tourists still crossing Victoria Embankment.  I'd been holding back, waiting for them to clear.  The PCSO started yelling at people to get off the road, and gesticulating.

Of course - you've guessed it - he stalled in the middle of a group of tourists.  I rode by, as the pedestrians had cleared the other lane.  Tourists laughed and took photos.  PCSO steamed off at high speed.

Actually, I almost forgot.  I next saw him at the turn into Northumberland Avenue, where he was half in the ASL, beside another Police person (perhaps a real officer) on a motorbike.  I heard the words 'Did you hear what he said?' referring to a crackled communication on the radio, ' "I'd give that a good pounding".  Well, I'd do her myself...'

Lights changed.  We went our different ways.  Or, rather, we went the same way, but in our different manners.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 25 May, 2012, 10:31:20 am
Not bad weather for commuting at the moment.  A trifle warm, but a lot better than the same conditions on public transport. ;D

Why is it that anything even vaguely anomalous, weatherwise, seems to bring out the worst in people?  There are also an additional load of wobbly once a year cyclists, who seen the sun out, and decided to dust off their bikes and go for a bimble.  Relatively safe, so long as you give them plenty of room. ;D

Rather oddly I saw a Qatar plated sports car, turning into the new development on Queenstown Road, between the QVC building and the river.  The plates were almost entirely in Arabic characters, which I can't believe is legal in the UK.  The only bits in "English" characters were very small writing around the periphery (including the word Qatar, hence my identification), much the same as the "Made by Bloggs Motors" stuff we have on our plates.  I've seen cars with Arabic plates in the past, but they've also had western characters on them, presumably a different format for the same identification information.  Purely Arabic characters seems a little odd, since most UK police officers (and for that matter, machine recognition systems) aren't going to be able to deal with them, at all.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 25 May, 2012, 07:17:28 pm
Saw Miss Dan the Younger's assembly then went to work gently on calm 10am roads and managed not to need a shower after.  However, the gentle downhill on the way home is too much temptation and I need one now.
Title: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 25 May, 2012, 08:03:47 pm
Heavy traffic, heavy saddlebag, heavy weather, heavy legs, heavy heart...

Heavy, man.

At least the sun is still shining. Sigh.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 25 May, 2012, 08:30:03 pm
Miserable slog with tired legs into 20mph headwinds for 25miles. meh
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 25 May, 2012, 09:11:17 pm
Well that's the first full five days inna row I've done in ages. surprisingly unsore though my legs were a tad heavy into the headwind this morning.

Extended the ride home to 20miles again but have failed to do anything else since getting in except eat and slob about. Don't think I'll be camping or going on a night ride today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 25 May, 2012, 09:39:36 pm
It’s not just me who finds the area around Fen Road a magnet for shit, aggressive drivers:

http://www.cambs.police.uk/myneighbourhood/priorities.asp?teamcode=201

Quote
Continue the work to tackle anti-social driving in Fen Road, High Street and water Lane, East Chesterton

Recently, the bollards between Ferry Lane and Fen Road were replaced with metal ones. It turns out this is because the locals had sawn the old wooden ones down to create a rat run between Fen Road and the High Street via Ferry Lane (which is not suitable for any significant volume of traffic). These are the same people driving up and down those streets, and it’s right on my commute route.



Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 25 May, 2012, 10:09:54 pm
Quote from: simonp on 25 May, 2012, 09:39:36 pm
It’s not just me who finds the area around Fen Road a magnet for shit, aggressive drivers:

http://www.cambs.police.uk/myneighbourhood/priorities.asp?teamcode=201

Interesting link on that page - "View antisocial behaviour minimum standards in your area".  ???

Don't they let you live there if you're not antisocial enough? :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 27 May, 2012, 12:09:51 pm
I popped to the shops today on my bike and noticed a freshly dead badger on my commuting route.

It won't stay fresh for long.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 27 May, 2012, 09:11:34 pm
It will if you put it in the freezer.

Badger casserole FTW! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 28 May, 2012, 07:46:12 am
Quote from: Jurek on 11 April, 2011, 01:45:44 pm
Jurek.

Ok. So let's give this another go then.


Jurek
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: delthebike on 28 May, 2012, 08:07:56 am
Quote from: Jurek on 28 May, 2012, 07:46:12 am
Quote from: Jurek on 11 April, 2011, 01:45:44 pm
Jurek.

Ok. So let's give this another go then.
Jurek
You spelt it correctly the fist time.  :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 28 May, 2012, 08:54:02 am
Rather pleased by that. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 28 May, 2012, 09:08:44 am
Quote from: Jurek on 28 May, 2012, 07:46:12 am
Quote from: Jurek on 11 April, 2011, 01:45:44 pm
Jurek.

Ok. So let's give this another go then.


Jurek

*Happy dance for Jurek!* :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 28 May, 2012, 09:14:54 am
Quote from: Jurek on 28 May, 2012, 07:46:12 am
Quote from: Jurek on 11 April, 2011, 01:45:44 pm
Jurek.

Ok. So let's give this another go then.


Jurek

Top stuff.

Relevant bits crossed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 28 May, 2012, 09:19:35 am
Indeed. :thumbsup:

Keep it up (hopefully).

I've spent far too long not commuting this year, so I'm determined to keep going, even though I'm using sub-optimal bikes for it.

(Most finish building the new commuter...)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 28 May, 2012, 09:26:48 am
Quote from: Jurek on 28 May, 2012, 07:46:12 am
Quote from: Jurek on 11 April, 2011, 01:45:44 pm
Jurek.

Ok. So let's give this another go then.


Jurek

Hurrah!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 28 May, 2012, 09:34:22 am
I had an interesting commute this morning. 

Firstly, Buterfly & I set out a bit late (knackered after the weekend, and trying to do boring home stuff round the edges - kudos to Butterfly for managing so much laundry! :thumbsup: ).  But it was sunny, and Butterfly's legs obviously still thought they were on the Van Nicholas, because she got the tandem moving really well.

Loads of cyclists in Streatham was pleasing to see, and Butterfly had a big grin on her face all the way to work.

OK, so we were delayed by the level crossing gates being down for three trains, but it didn't break our rhythm too much.  And the car which pulled out on her at one roundabout and the car which was dissuaded from doing so by my impersonation of a car horn at the next roundabout didn't mar the mood.  Nor did the car which was reversing onto the road without looking, to whom I gave a stern 'NO!'.  I felt a bit like Barbra Woodouse, though I can manage without the plaid skirt.

I saw a chap carrying a bike over his shoulder.  I noticed that the carbon forks were completely snapped through.  Wondering how it was that he was walking after such a catastrophic failure, I wheeled around and stopped to check he was OK.

He's a courier (though no work today, I fear).  A little hungover, he explained that he hadn't been on the bike when it happened.  It seems there had been some misunderstanding after he had crashed out at someone's flat last night, and the disgruntled other party had sent the bike in freefall from the top of the block of flats.  Given that, it is amazing that the rest of the frame looked so good.  But the forks, as I say, were snapped, and the front wheel was more heart shaped than round.  I suspect he was hoping to salvage the hub.

Anyway, rather than go to a bike shop first off, he was heading for a beer and a sit down in the sunshine.  He seemed cheerful enough in the circumstances, so I wished him well, and rode on.

Lastly, I saw Peewit.  Or, rather, he saw me and waved as he passed by along New Kent Road.  Good to see a friend cycling happily. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 28 May, 2012, 09:37:09 am
Miss Dan the Elder did rush hour traffic for the first time, on the way to school. She showed good road sense and everyone was courteous to everyone else, even after I'd dropped the Misses off.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 28 May, 2012, 12:10:03 pm
Cracking ride in even if I did end up with an unplanned aerial protein breakfast as i came down Warburton Bridge   :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 28 May, 2012, 01:18:08 pm
Train today, just to remind me why I don't more often.

Going into the station there was a blind chap, trying to cope with the Monday morning crowds, whose collective way of dealing with it was to try to avoid running into him but otherwise treat him as an obstacle. What was everyone afraid of? Did they think blindness is contagious? I have to say, given the way people behaved maybe it is. All it needed was a couple of minutes to help him onto his platform, he should not have had to feel grateful. Sometimes, my fellow humans make me feel a little dirty.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 28 May, 2012, 04:41:24 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 28 May, 2012, 07:46:12 am
Quote from: Jurek on 11 April, 2011, 01:45:44 pm
Jurek.

Ok. So let's give this another go then.

Jurek
Hope it went well.  Commute and working day.  And best wishes for many more good ones to come.
Looking forward to your commute comment later!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 28 May, 2012, 08:51:32 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 28 May, 2012, 07:46:12 am
Quote from: Jurek on 11 April, 2011, 01:45:44 pm
Jurek.

Ok. So let's give this another go then.


Jurek

Oooo, good luck!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 28 May, 2012, 09:03:05 pm
Quote from: jane on 28 May, 2012, 04:41:24 pm
Hope it went well.  Commute and working day.  And best wishes for many more good ones to come.
Looking forward to your commute comment later!

It did. Thanx (All).

And trains (sometimes) suck.

On the fixer tomorrow. \0/

Oh, I guess that means I'm going back...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 28 May, 2012, 09:06:09 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 28 May, 2012, 09:03:05 pm
Quote from: jane on 28 May, 2012, 04:41:24 pm
Hope it went well.  Commute and working day.  And best wishes for many more good ones to come.
Looking forward to your commute comment later!

It did. Thanx.

And trains (sometimes) suck.

On the fixer tomorrow. \0/

Oh, I guess that means I'm going back...

Top stuff!  All the best for day 2 of the commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 28 May, 2012, 09:17:28 pm
Quote from: PaulR on 28 May, 2012, 09:06:09 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 28 May, 2012, 09:03:05 pm
Quote from: jane on 28 May, 2012, 04:41:24 pm
Hope it went well.  Commute and working day.  And best wishes for many more good ones to come.
Looking forward to your commute comment later!

It did. Thanx.

And trains (sometimes) suck.

On the fixer tomorrow. \0/

Oh, I guess that means I'm going back...

Top stuff!  All the best for day 2 of the commute.

Ta!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 28 May, 2012, 09:38:27 pm
*wonders whether he can ride up to Jurek's in time to commute down to his work with him* ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 29 May, 2012, 09:18:08 am
30 minutes door to door at a pace sufficiently unrapid so as not to break into a sweat  :).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 29 May, 2012, 11:11:11 am
Last night, my commute went over the river and along Embankment as far as Putney Bridge.  Into Richmond Park, where I eased off to ride over Spankers Hill while being all Fotherington-Thomas ('Hello birds!  Hello sky!  Hello deer next to the road!').

As I turned back on to the perimeter road, a chap on a Langster said 'Thanks for the tow up Priory Lane' :D

tbh, I knew there was someone there, but I thought it was an MTBer who'd pissed me off on Richmond Rd, so I was wondering why he hadn't been shaken off as I raised the speed. ;D

Rather than go home the usual way, I had looked at a map and seen a more direct route to get to the stupidmarket at Rose Hill.  Coombe Lane.  Seemed inoffensive enough, but I have now learned about another hill in SW London of which I was not previously aware, but I was acutely aware at the time of my introduction, especially in my legs.

But it was a reasonable route nonetheless, and I did have a long descent before winding through really quiet back streets before being spewed out onto a dual carriageway up to Rose Hill.

After buying slightly more than I has bag space for (I removed a load of excessive packaging to make it all fit), I was glad that the route home was mainly downhill.

A nice sunny commute.  Lots of people just having fun.  Lovely.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 29 May, 2012, 12:39:14 pm
A tailwind and a race with a colleague for the last 3 miles, bike beats smart car  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 29 May, 2012, 12:41:15 pm
Was ready to set off early & have a steady 50min ride into work this morning. However, a flat back tyre meant a 40min/19mph avg thrash to get me in with 5mins to spare  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 29 May, 2012, 01:03:08 pm
 :thumbsup: to the last four posts.

<fast show>Isn't cycling brilliant?</fast show>

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 29 May, 2012, 01:40:00 pm
I had a 3 leg commute this morning. Stage 1 was down to work to cajole 150 students onto buses at 7:30 in the morning. Amazingly, only 3 slept in and missed them). Then I went back home the long way (5 miles instead of 2) to have breakfast and pick up 300 exam scripts I collected last night on the way home. Stage 2 was back into work (well within 200 yards of work) when I remembered that, whilst I'd remembered the 300 scripts stacked in boxes on the rack, I'd forgotten another 50 which were stuffed in a messenger bag. Stupidly, I just turned around and rode back home to collect the messenger bag which was still sitting on the stairs. I should have offloaded the scripts I did have at work first. Stage 3 was to return with the bag as well.

Fortunately, its only a short commute, but it does mean I've already climbed "that sodding hill" twice and I've a re-run this evening on the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 29 May, 2012, 01:55:42 pm
Quote from: clarion on 29 May, 2012, 11:11:11 am
Last night, my commute went over the river and along Embankment as far as Putney Bridge.  Into Richmond Park, where I eased off to ride over Spankers Hill while being all Fotherington-Thomas ('Hello birds!  Hello sky!  Hello deer next to the road!').

As I turned back on to the perimeter road, a chap on a Langster said 'Thanks for the tow up Priory Lane' :D

tbh, I knew there was someone there, but I thought it was an MTBer who'd pissed me off on Richmond Rd, so I was wondering why he hadn't been shaken off as I raised the speed. ;D

Rather than go home the usual way, I had looked at a map and seen a more direct route to get to the stupidmarket at Rose Hill.  Coombe Lane.  Seemed inoffensive enough, but I have now learned about another hill in SW London of which I was not previously aware, but I was acutely aware at the time of my introduction, especially in my legs.

But it was a reasonable route nonetheless, and I did have a long descent before winding through really quiet back streets before being spewed out onto a dual carriageway up to Rose Hill.

After buying slightly more than I has bag space for (I removed a load of excessive packaging to make it all fit), I was glad that the route home was mainly downhill.

A nice sunny commute.  Lots of people just having fun.  Lovely.

He He, Coombe Lane aka 'use the effing cycle lane alley'.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 29 May, 2012, 01:56:21 pm
Some sort of major incident on Tooting Bec Road up towards Mitcham Road had the whole road closed and cordoned off. Not sure why, but I hope no-one has been hurt.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: origamist on 29 May, 2012, 03:36:56 pm
@Alexb - it was a serious collision. A female runner was hit by a car at about 7.30am this morning. I arrived just before the paramedics and it was a distressing scene. I hope the woman pulls through.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 29 May, 2012, 03:45:52 pm
Fingers crossed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 29 May, 2012, 08:23:39 pm
Surprisingly cold and damp today, after yesterday's sunshine.
On the top of the hill, it was dense heavy cloud of the all-penetrating wetness kind, and it condensed on everything making much wetness.   The subsequent descent was correspondingly cold.

So now the question arises: Will the Snow Roads have snow, hail, or sunshine?  ( The wind is assumed. )
I think I'm going to need a big pack to cover the eventualities.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 29 May, 2012, 08:49:25 pm
Second commute of the week for me and two more planned which considering I usually only grace the office with my presence once a week is a bit of a shock to the system!  The good weather seems to have drawn all of the fair weather cyclists out, either that or the realisation of how utterly grim the tube will be on a day like today.

Whilst it's great to see so many cyclists out on the road even if their tyres are flat and their drivetrains rusty and in need of adjustment I wish they'd show more common sense. Too many rljers and way too many who, just because they've seen the highlights of a stage of the Tour de France on Channel 4 about 6 years  ago think they know about bunch riding*. FFS, leave more space when you're overtaking and get off my back wheel, my well adjusted disc brakes will stop me faster than your poorly maintained rim brakes could ever dream of and I'd enjoy the resulting involuntary colonoscopy from your head down posture than you would.

Oops, this has turned into a bit of a rant, it really was both a nice ride in and back!

*For the record I probablly have little bunch riding experience than them save to say that I don't enjoy it, even moreso in heavy traffic, and especially with riders I don't know.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 29 May, 2012, 11:50:34 pm
Got berated by another cyclist this evening for jumping a red light. Pffft. I'd actually stopped at the lights but had to move to allow a turning bus through, so I was then in a position where I could no longer see the lights. After the bus had got through, the road was clear ahead so after weighing up the situation for a moment, I went. Apparently, two other cyclists must have followed me, because "you three" got an earful at the next set of lights (where we were all waiting patiently, of course). Maybe I done wrong, but meh, whatever. The response was somewhat ranting and sanctimonious in tone. I didn't feel much like engaging with the accuser at the time, having other matters on my mind, so I ignored it. If it was one of you lot, I'm sorry, OK, yeah?

I also had a much more positive encounter with another cyclist, an antipodean on a rather splendid-looking Challenge recumbent (a Chamsin, I think*), who I'm almost certain must be one of you lot (or maybe one of the other lot). He was just ahead of me on the A21 going towards Bromley, I couldn't quite keep up on Bromley Hill but caught him at the lights at the top. He took one look at my set-up and asked if I was an audaxer. Very astute.  ;D

We chatted briefly about audax, LEL and FNRttCs before he shot off down the hill on the other side of Bromley. As mentioned above, I had stuff on my mind, so wasn't feeling very talkative but it was good to meet you, whoever you are.

d.

*Edit: actually, looking at some pics online, I don't think it could have been a Chamsin because the bars were under the seat. And the wheels weren't 700C either. Maybe a Furai.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 30 May, 2012, 07:44:43 am
Decided to take my alternative morning route today only to find the road is closed past Dunham Massey so followed the diversion signs for a little while through some lanes I not been down before, excellent route and ended up back on my main route after a badly broken up section of road through a series of nasty S bends, think that may now become part of the primary route
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 30 May, 2012, 07:45:45 am
Yeah, that would have been Andy on his red Seiran, I think.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 30 May, 2012, 08:32:36 am
It looks like the Travellers who had parked up on Tooting Bec common have gone.  They seemed to appear over the weekend, and a quick Google suggests that it may have been the same bunch who parked there a couple of years ago (http://www.wandsworthguardian.co.uk/news/8240145.Travellers_make_Tooting_Bec_Common_their_home/), since there were only four caravans.  It was hard to see in the dark, but white caravans are fairly conspicuous, so presumably they moved on yesterday, before the council managed to get them evicted.

Whilst the path has barriers that would block access, the council mostly leaves the gate at the southern end, onto Bedford Hill, wide open, presumably to allow easy access for their parks maintenance vehicles.

The gate was very securely locked last night.
Title: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 30 May, 2012, 09:52:01 am
Quote from: Wendy on 30 May, 2012, 07:45:45 am
Yeah, that would have been Andy on his red Seiran, I think.

...except it was white - sorry, forgot to mention that. Who is Andy - is he on yacf?

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 30 May, 2012, 10:20:36 am
Oh, he does have a white Furai too, it got stamped on but I think he might have fixed it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 30 May, 2012, 10:22:49 am
Regular FNRttCer.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VQYizM0XYx8

I think that's the fixed bike, possibly the red Seiran was a loaner, I'm not too sure.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 30 May, 2012, 10:48:04 am
Definitely arallsopp.  He's written a really great book about his LEL.  Worth buying it off the interwebs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 30 May, 2012, 10:52:56 am
This morning's commute was a bit unusual.  The traffic was really sparse in places, but jammed in others.  Not too bad overall, though.

Last night, I rendezvoused with some Cyclechatters at Trafalgar Square for another sociable evening ride.  Five of us meandered through the back streets before getting to Clapham Common and drinking tea (one rider actually had an alcoholic drink, but it was teapots for the rest of us:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v326/ado15/IMAG0472.jpg)

Then Butterfly joined us:

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v326/ado15/IMAG0473.jpg)

;D

And topped off with a lovely ride home with the delightful Butterfly while three of the others went off to play with some hills by way of training for the LONJoG ride.

Very civilised.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 30 May, 2012, 10:56:17 am
Quote from: clarion on 30 May, 2012, 10:48:04 am
Definitely arallsopp.  He's written a really great book about his LEL.  Worth buying it off the interwebs.

Yebbut, upon reading his book you find that not only is it a gripping account of LEL on a recumbent, but LEL was his first audax. Ever.

And, according to Mrs. Hall, he is possessed of devilish good looks. And he's a v nice bloke.


You can't half go off some people.


(The book is "Barring Mechanicals." Dead Good) 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: origamist on 30 May, 2012, 11:05:26 am
Quote from: origamist on 29 May, 2012, 03:36:56 pm
@Alexb - it was a serious collision. A female runner was hit by a car at about 7.30am this morning. I arrived just before the paramedics and it was a distressing scene. I hope the woman pulls through.

Pedestrian in critical condition after Streatham crash

http://www.yourlocalguardian.co.uk/news/9732240.Pedestrian_in_critical_condition_after_crash/ 

Fingers crossed she makes it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 30 May, 2012, 11:35:35 am
I forgot to mention that my middle and ring fingers on my right hand still sting a bit.  I was coming up to a junction to turn right (in the middle of the lane), when a van came charging round the bend in the middle of the road, and caught my hand with the mirror.  Stupid wanker.  I heard him stop behind me, but I was gone, and he was probably on a tight timescale, as he was a courier for a company called Swift something.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 30 May, 2012, 11:54:04 am
Quote from: Tim Hall on 30 May, 2012, 10:56:17 am
LEL was his first audax. Ever.

Yes, he mentioned that. Suitably impressed.

Quote
And, according to Mrs. Hall, he is possessed of devilish good looks.

I couldn't possibly comment.  ;D

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 30 May, 2012, 01:45:54 pm
Wet. When I exited the house it was merely dreich and I thought I wouldn't get too wet riding in. But motion through the mist meant moisture micturating and so I was a triffle soggy on arrival. But I am now well dried out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 30 May, 2012, 01:52:36 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 30 May, 2012, 10:22:49 am
I think that's the fixed bike, possibly the red Seiran was a loaner, I'm not too sure.

I believe it was.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 30 May, 2012, 03:44:50 pm
...and when I say fixed, I mean repaired bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 30 May, 2012, 05:25:10 pm
It's raining, I'm on the Dave Yates with chrome forks & I'm not happy  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 30 May, 2012, 06:03:51 pm
Hot and sticky but hey-ho its all good cus now I is on HOLIDAY
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 30 May, 2012, 06:13:06 pm
Quote from: fungus on 30 May, 2012, 05:25:10 pm
It's raining, I'm on the Dave Yates with chrome forks & I'm not happy  >:(

OH! NO! quick, put it in the bath and give it a nice cossetting bubble bath....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 30 May, 2012, 08:49:10 pm
Too tired to ride, so on the bus/train/bus. Not as much fun, but at least I get to read my book.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 30 May, 2012, 09:51:45 pm
Needed to get some miles in because I'd eaten a bit over the odds today.  Bimbled to Waterloo then to Clapham Common, then over to Brixton, playing with some hills up towards Norwood, then back to Brockwell Park to meet Butterfly for the ride home.

A nice gent on a Ti bike bimbled along to chat with us through the ridiculous, almost comical, traffic of Streatham.  Then he zoomed off his way, and we pottered ours. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 31 May, 2012, 07:31:32 pm
Not, technically, on the road since my commute home involves the planets path, but just as I was passing Naburn station tea rooms I saw a couple of kids ahead walking a.particularly large and shaggy dog. On a lead, btw. Then realised it was actually a particularly minuscule islapony :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 31 May, 2012, 08:14:20 pm
It has started.

The commute in, in the mornings is too short. Too quiet.

By a long shot.

I find that in the evenings I am extending it and adding in more aggressive roads.

Like the A2 / Old Kent Road.

My name is Jurek.

I ride a bike.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 31 May, 2012, 08:17:16 pm
Already on the slippery slope.

No hope for you.  No hope at all.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 31 May, 2012, 08:27:13 pm
The driving in Cambridge is plumbing new depths.

Tonight on the way to the station I stop at the high st / fen rd mini roundabout to give way to a right turning car. The car waited briefly to check I really was going to give way, then moves off. This is too slow for the wvm behind them, who makes a right turn also, overtaking car by driving on the wrong side of the roundabout, turning alongside them into fen rd.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 31 May, 2012, 08:45:39 pm
For years I've been trying to crack bi-location, but without success.  This evening a few drivers seemed to think they've manage co-location and tried to prove it to me.  Unfortunately they haven't caught on to the fact that *both* parties need to know the secret, otherwise the initiator is just a {edited for decency}.  Thankfully no contact was made, but my lungs and vocal chords got some good exercise.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 31 May, 2012, 08:50:14 pm
Interestingly, after having previously only seen one other Decathlon B'Twin Vitamin "in the wild", locked up outside the bike store at work a couple to times much earlier this year, on the way to work today, I saw two, whilst cycling on mine.

I overtook a woman cycling one on Cavendish Road, and it looked largely unmodified, which had her pedaling quite a lot, since it's something like a 52" gear as supplied by Decathlon.  I failed to resist the temptation to cry out "Snap" as I overtook her. ;D

The other one was a chap standing at the edge of the pavement on Queenstown Road, so I couldn't see whether his gearing was original or not.

I'm also wearing matching kit today, with an orange YACF top, which is close to the same colour as the bike. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dinamo on 01 June, 2012, 07:28:46 am
Drizzle in Brizzle this morning !

Rode on cycle path alongside ring road this morning as Jn 19 - 20 of M4 closed so all traffic being directed onto ring road, amazingly high amount of HGV's !
Thankfully once at Filton they turned north on the A38 and I was able to carry on my peaceful way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: arallsopp on 01 June, 2012, 02:28:03 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 30 May, 2012, 09:52:01 am
Quote from: Wendy on 30 May, 2012, 07:45:45 am
Yeah, that would have been Andy on his red Seiran, I think.

...except it was white - sorry, forgot to mention that. Who is Andy - is he on yacf?

d.

Yep. That was me. I was on 'Franken Furai' which is parts Furai, parts streetmachine, parts eBay, parts found down the back of the shed. She's the rebuilt version of my original Furai, with approximately 90% new (to me) bits. 24" wheels, under seat steering, white framed.

The Seiran remains on loan from David (Laid Back). With Franken rolling, I'm not using it, so its being kept safe and dry, ready for sale. Bigger and redder, with less zipties. :)

Good to meet you Dave.

Andy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 01 June, 2012, 04:54:10 pm
Left work via the town to grab some supplies for tomorrow's departure with the tent. I stopped at Waitrose, and as I came out there was a bike PC following a PCSO 'going my way', riding only about six inches from the kerb. I passed jovial comment about their need to ride a little further out, and mentioned the pinch point prat I had had at the exact same spot. Off they went, and I waited for the traffic to clear before following.

Lots of close overtakes, of course, as usual, but as I caught rapidly up with the dynamic duo the traffic was bunching. It is OK to squeeze past someone riding three to four feet from the kerb, in the face of oncoming traffic, but not to squeeze past someone riding almost against the kerb when they have that word on the back of their stab vest...

Oh, and I passed a norse rider with a 'Polite' tabard on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 01 June, 2012, 07:33:26 pm
Had a bit of a headwind this morning.  But that's OK, by this evening the wind swung around 180 degrees.  ::-)

Still, better than the tube. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 01 June, 2012, 07:43:26 pm
Didn't go to the office, but somewhere more rural today, which was nice (although the same distance). That's my first five days in a row of commuting this year, at last.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 01 June, 2012, 08:00:24 pm
My only commute of the week.
I was a bit late to get out this morning (and I may have had just one, or two, or three, more wines last night than was sensible) so I only took the short route in, and I had a bag full of new books to bring home so only took the short route back.

But I did get a ride in at lunchtime as well, so all was not lost.  :thumbsup:

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 02 June, 2012, 08:54:32 pm
A Spitfire, I was on the end of the runway when it landed. Awesomes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 02 June, 2012, 10:33:17 pm
Rode 120km back from Bristol on Friday night.  Some nice photos on the blog "Take the Long Way Home" (http://wp.me/pRxYh-ko)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 06 June, 2012, 04:18:04 pm
Yesterday I fixed up the ribble, so it was actually rideable again.

This morn, with much anticipation of easy fast ride to work, I set off.

Just to make this clear;

Mercian - touring-bike geometry, raised handlebars, heavish 50mm tyres at 50psi.

Ribble - road bike, tri-bars, lightish 25mm tyres at 100psi

erm, it took just as long to get to work. I was flying down hills on the ribble, faster (by the gps) going up them (no surprise - there is over 500gm difference between tyres on Mercian and Ribble).

Make no sense whatsoever! 


Maybe comfort outruns fast  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 06 June, 2012, 04:42:17 pm
It's Not About The Bike
 :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 06 June, 2012, 04:53:16 pm
Catford was remarkably quiet this morning... Hurrah for half term!

Just been reminded that the roads might well be very quiet this Friday evening too - Eng-er-land are playing in the foopball and the kick-off is around going home time. Might have to take advantage of that and ride the long way home.  :thumbsup:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 June, 2012, 05:08:41 pm
mrC, your findings tally with the chap featured in Cycle a while back.  And with me.  I do roughly the same time whichever bike I'm on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 06 June, 2012, 05:18:09 pm
I'm noticeably faster on my soot bike than I am on the alu fixed, though on the urban routes, the traffic lights tend to even out the overall journey time a bit - because I get to the next set of lights sooner, I just end up waiting there longer... unless I'm very fast and get there before they've changed.

On the 26km rural route, I'm minutes quicker on the soot bike.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bloomers100 on 06 June, 2012, 07:56:05 pm
First ride in on the new Brooks B17 narrow. No problems despite my current low bar set up. Sun and a blustery tail wind home. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 07 June, 2012, 12:35:22 am
Quote from: clarion on 06 June, 2012, 05:08:41 pm
mrC, your findings tally with the chap featured in Cycle a while back.  And with me.  I do roughly the same time whichever bike I'm on.
Yebbut that was a cobblers test; the guy bought a road bike, then put m+ tyres on it. 

I was quick home; 1hr 18min and eased up for last 8miles
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 07 June, 2012, 09:31:21 am
I do love half term. You wouldn’t think it would make so much difference, esp in my central area on a tiny commute, but I had far fewer vehicles to contend with. I guess the roads are especially quiet because lots of people seem to have taken these three days off (at least judging by the out-of-office emails I keep getting).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: slohill on 07 June, 2012, 05:26:30 pm
I am off to the Alps next week, so yesterday I fitted new chain, block, brake pads, best wheels and overall major service to bike.
Today I went for a ride round Farndon and Malpas in apalling weather on dirty, wet roads.
So I have spent the afternoon re-servicing bike for the Alps.   :(
Riding Mike Hutchinson's audax from Caton next Sunday as final training run before the big hills.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 07 June, 2012, 05:41:55 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 07 June, 2012, 09:31:21 am
I do love half term. You wouldn’t think it would make so much difference, esp in my central area on a tiny commute, but I had far fewer vehicles to contend with. I guess the roads are especially quiet because lots of people seem to have taken these three days off (at least judging by the out-of-office emails I keep getting).

Conversely, central London around midday seems a lot worse at half term.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Socks on 07 June, 2012, 05:50:08 pm
Had an interesting conversation with a driving instructor yesterday.  He'd overtaken then immediately turned left, so I had to brake and swerve to avoid the back end of his car.

Then he stopped in a side street to go to the corner shop.  I doubled back and took the opportunity to ask if he really was a driving instructor; point out how dangerous his overtake / turn had been.  His response ...

'You were cycling too fast'

If this is what the teachers are like no wonder there are so many drivers who can't drive safely.

Dave
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 07 June, 2012, 08:39:07 pm
Well the ride home today answered my question about whether I'm finally getting a bit faster or if I've just been avoiding riding in bad weather.

A long grinding slog into a silly headwind showed me that I'm still slow  :-\ My knees hurt.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 June, 2012, 08:58:20 pm
Socks, I often find that instructors drive very poorly.

Today, I saw a car (not a driving school) trundle through a red light, across a pedestrian crossing, then come to a stop across the gap in the central reservation where I was riding through on the cycle lane (which had a green light).  I mentioned to the chap that he'd driven through a red light, and he said, 'Oh.  That's OK, then.'  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 08 June, 2012, 08:59:45 am
Socks, its been my experience that driving instructors are worse than minicab drivers.

It were a bit wet on the ride in this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 08 June, 2012, 09:08:00 am
With driving school vehicles, you need to see how many heads are in the car.  If it's two, then it'll be driving mostly according to the rules, and probably slower than normal (occasionally I've overtaken learner drivers, but I try not to unless they're ludicrously slow).  If there's only one head in the car, then more often that not, it's worth giving them a wide berth, depressingly. :(

Yesterday's commute home into the wind was a bit of a drag, although with the stupidly geared single speed, for once I wasn't spending my time twiddling like a nutter, or freewheeling for the entire journey. :)

To be fair, I had the wind behind on the way into work, so for once it was a fair changeover.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 08 June, 2012, 10:58:21 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 08 June, 2012, 08:59:45 am
Socks, its been my experience that driving instructors are worse than minicab drivers.

my experience is the same
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 08 June, 2012, 12:21:04 pm
As I left Bromley South station this morning, I was approached by a couple of PCSOs who were distributing leaflets to promote their bike security marking service.

After pocketing the leaflet, I was about to be on my way when a gurning binman enquired, with a look of smug glee on his face, "Caught riding on the pavement, eh?"  :facepalm:

I started to explain but quickly realised it was a pointless endeavour. It was only later, in true esprit de l'escalier style that I realised what I should have said was, "Actually, they were interviewing me about my habit of murdering ignorant pig binmen."

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 08 June, 2012, 12:27:21 pm
Infuriating! Much like when myself and another random cyclist were cycling along outside Buckingham Palace, and the lights outside turned red. The other cyclist jumped it, I stopped.

I then noticed a policeman was waiting to cross. He gave me a very stern look and said ‘Red lights are for cyclists too!’. He obviously thought I’d only stopped because he was there. I too thought it was pointless to let him know he was preaching to the converted.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 08 June, 2012, 12:29:24 pm
An old couple passed me at a junction and the chap said "Unusual to see a cyclist with lights!"

I said "I apologise on behalf of all cyclists".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RJ on 08 June, 2012, 01:18:03 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 08 June, 2012, 12:27:21 pm
Infuriating! Much like when myself and another random cyclist were cycling along outside Buckingham Palace, and the lights outside turned red. The other cyclist jumped it, I stopped.

I then noticed a policeman was waiting to cross. He gave me a very stern look and said ‘Red lights are for cyclists too!’. He obviously thought I’d only stopped because he was there. I too thought it was pointless to let him know he was preaching to the converted.

Was he accompanied by a small bear??  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 08 June, 2012, 01:23:37 pm
Preaching to the converted means you used to jump red lights? I'd have told him to tell the other guy, and that he was preaching to the choir telling me.
Title: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 08 June, 2012, 09:00:42 pm
In a good mood. I wasn't earlier...

Even though I got mixed up about the football (turns out the England game is Monday, not tonight), I decided to ride the long way home so as to take advantage of the wind direction, rather than slog into it. Went from Southwark to Rochester, the lumpy way. 49km.

Lovely way to wind down after a trying week at work. Didn't even mind getting rained on a few times.

Sweet.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 08 June, 2012, 09:04:37 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 08 June, 2012, 09:00:42 pm
In a good mood. I wasn't earlier...

Even though I got mixed up about the football (turns out the England game is Monday, not tonight), I decided to ride the long way home so as to take advantage of the wind direction, rather than slog into it. Went from Southwark to Rochester, the lumpy way. 49km.

Lovely way to wind down after a trying week at work. Didn't even mind getting rained on a few times.

Sweet.

d.

*Commute envy*
Title: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 08 June, 2012, 09:07:41 pm
One of these days, if I ever get out of work at a reasonable time on a Friday, I'm going to ride all the way home. Then you'll be really envious. ;D

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 08 June, 2012, 09:15:24 pm
FFS. Wet and wild, impatient drivers, drivers parked in cycle lanes, motorbikes riding on the cycle path.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 08 June, 2012, 09:47:19 pm
Nearly didn't cycle in today as a) it's bloomin' windy and b) I woke up only about five minutes before I need to leave due to not setting my alarm.

Started to eat breakfast and drink a mug of tea when I realised I really didn't want to get the train and my car is still broken down so I hastily got kitted up and set off on the bike, only about 20 minutes late as this point (though to be fair I normally leave ten minutes late as it is).

Just made it to work on time (mahoosive tailwind apart from when it was cross windy) but saw it getting windier as the day went on so cheated by getting the train home and I don't regret it one bit as it meant pizza soonerer  :thumbsup:

Oh yeah, regarding driving school cars, I wish the instructor of the learner behind me up the hill to work had got them to leave a little more space between me and them  ::-)

And the chap demanding I move from the middle of the lane into the gutter/door zone despite doing 30+mph can go and die in a fire as far as I'm concerned.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 08 June, 2012, 10:11:55 pm
Last night's commute was brought to you courtesy of character building  >:(

I realised just before I left work that I had a slow p*nct*re on my bike and pumped it up as best I could and headed towards home. I left at 8.15 and got back at 9.45p.m. Long, slow, hard work and I kept mentally ticking off place names in my head. I gave an internal cheer when I saw the Blue Lewisham sign.

Got semi-wet on my commute into work this morning but its now something you shrug off, you are so used to it now. An extra pair of socks and some dry knickers, and you are sorted.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonBuoy on 08 June, 2012, 10:41:14 pm
Dull, windy and spotting with rain this morning.

Discovered that I had a flat rear tyre on the commute machine as soon as I set off.  Transferred my stuff from the pannier to a rucksack and leapt aboard the C2W machine (that has only been to work once before).  This meant that I would not be able to bring my laptop home  :thumbsup: and the lack of mudguards would ensure that a significant amount of water and general road detritus would find its way into places that I would prefer it didn't  :facepalm:  By this time it was a couple of minutes past my 'drop dead' leaving time.

Hit a gap in the traffic on the roundabout at the start of the local Strava segment, took advantage of the tail wind and pedalled like crazy.  Not only beat my best time but beat the previous record however Strava had rootled through its database and found an even faster one1.

Educated a van driver on why it is wrong to dive out of side roads and attempt to intimidate vulnerable road users2.

Snook through a couple of pointless red lights3.

Got to work three minutes early4.

I love commuting by bike even on the supposedly crap days.  :)


1  Oh bugger
2  Me
3  New ones that they are still juggling with the sequencing
4  'drop dead' time now recalibrated
Title: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 08 June, 2012, 10:51:38 pm
On the train, on the last leg of my journey home tonight, the train guard struck up conversation - he was interested in my crosstop brake levers. We got on to talking about the Dauphiné, and Brad and Cav, and then he told me with great enthusiasm about his new Wilier - his 40th birthday present.

Nice chap. Funny really - train guards are the kind of people one encounters regularly but tends to think of in Rosencrantz & Guildenstern terms, as not really having an existence outside that context - life's incidental characters. Good to see their human side, especially when it turns out they share one's love of bikes. ;D

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 08 June, 2012, 10:53:38 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 08 June, 2012, 10:51:38 pm
On the train, on the last leg of my journey home tonight, the train guard struck up conversation - he was interested in my crosstop brake levers. We got on to talking about the Dauphiné, and Brad and Cav, and then he told me with great enthusiasm about his new Wilier - his 40th birthday present.

Nice chap. Funny really - train guards are the kind of people one encounters regularly but tends to think of in Rosencrantz & Guildenstern terms, as not really having an existence outside that context - life's incidental characters. Good to see their human side, especially when it turns out they share one's love of bikes. ;D

d.

There's a guard who works for First Great Western who has ridden PBP and has chatted to simonp and me about audax while the train is in Yatton station  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 09 June, 2012, 12:10:00 am
Tonight's commute just hurt. I had been out yesterday with the club on the hilly run and my legs hurt. And I went to the gym after work to ease them up with the result that my legs hurt and I was knackered. And tired. So I left the earphones in (I rarely cycle with earphones) and ground my way slowly home through the dreich and wind. Uphill, 45m elevation gain. 
Got home and crashed out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 09 June, 2012, 12:21:47 am
For all the weather forecasters dire warnings of high winds, the end of the world, etc, this evenings commute was easier than yesterday, with not too much wind at all.  I probably had worse cross winds and turbulence around buildings on the way to work, when the wind was nominally behind me. :-\

(... not that I'm complaining!)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dinamo on 10 June, 2012, 06:58:57 am
What a difference this morning, no wind or rain !
Just clear blue skies, a bit chilly at first especially riding through the low mist at Hambrook.
Disturbed a rummaging fox in Westbury village, but apart from that very quiet.

EDIT : Normal service has resumed this evening ............. soaked to the skin  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bloomers100 on 11 June, 2012, 08:38:18 am
Set off in the dry after listening to the rain most of the night. Three floods across the lanes around Blackmore and Doddinghurst. Rain came full on for last 20 mins, kits drying next door. Not unpleasant, its not cold out there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 June, 2012, 09:05:04 am
Wet!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 11 June, 2012, 09:12:26 am
Quote from: clarion on 11 June, 2012, 09:05:04 am
Wet!
And headwind!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 11 June, 2012, 09:19:40 am
Quite nice this morning in Devon.  The ground is still damp and the sky is cloudy.  But it's bright and not raining or blowing a gale
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 11 June, 2012, 12:04:12 pm
No commuting (or any cycling) for me for a couple of weeks while the knees recover from the BCM & Moors & Wolds audax rides  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 11 June, 2012, 12:16:18 pm
Well I was forced to ride the bike through two flooded paths where the bike was submerged up to and above the hubs.
The hub gear seems to be running freer as a result...I expect it to have seized solid by Wednesday!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 11 June, 2012, 12:30:16 pm
Very, very wet.

But lots of fun too.  :thumbsup:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 11 June, 2012, 03:24:56 pm
Today was a run day, did 5 miles and got very moist.  All good fun though.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 11 June, 2012, 07:30:24 pm
I never thought I'd find myself writing the following sentence:

I am so pleased to have a bike with mdgrds.

Gah! I can't even bring myself to write it.

*Singularly unimpressed with the 'Nutty's slimed bottom' flooded section under one of the bridges along Peckham canal path*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 June, 2012, 09:07:52 pm
Welcome to the Old Farts Brigade! ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 June, 2012, 09:13:09 pm
The weather was OKish on my way home, and I was at Putney before having to think about it, so I went through Richmond Park and managed another 50km day.  That's all but two days in June so far. :thumbsup:

But as I was riding up Spankers Hill, I caught another rider.  Turned out to be older than his physique might suggest, so I didn't think it was a great scalp.  Unfortunately, as I passed, he turned to me and said, 'At least it isn't raining'  :facepalm:

By the time I got to Kingston Gate, it was siling down.  And I know it's 15km of winding back streets from there :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 11 June, 2012, 09:13:28 pm
Got to leave half an hour earlier today as everyone else wanted to go watch the foopball and the bosses did too :)

Wasn't fussed about it myself but always glad to leave early. Had a nice ride home, most of which I spent chatting with a chap I sometimes see in the mornings. Chatting away and still going faster than my usual cruise speed.

Started spitting as I neared home but I was in the porch before it really started raining. I would have been quite wet had we finished at the usual time  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 11 June, 2012, 09:39:20 pm
Quote from: clarion on 11 June, 2012, 09:07:52 pm
Welcome to the Old Farts Brigade! ;D
Old Farts yourself.
I was blitzing it down the OK Road this evening.
Levitating on a mist of spray.
I need to sort out some UV downlighters on the fixer so that it does actually look like I'm hovering above the tarmac. :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 11 June, 2012, 09:45:29 pm
The discomfort of getting into wet kit for the commute home was greatly outweighed by the absence of traffic.  Football does have its uses. ;D

And there was a tailwind home.  ;D ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 12 June, 2012, 09:25:40 am
I made a bad mistake and pulled out at a roundabout when I shouldn't have done. Luckily the taxi I should have given way to was going slowly and he didn't hit me. In my defence, I was distracted by watching what the arsehole behind me was doing because he was showing every sign of being about to overtake me dangerously.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 June, 2012, 10:01:10 am
I also made a stupid mistake today.  At Loughborough Junction, I ended up going down the left hand side of a bus as the lights changed and it started off, towards the kerb.  I knew the bus was going straight on and I was turning left, but it shouldn't have happened.  It was a complicated situation which put me there, but I didn't apply my usual anticipation. :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 12 June, 2012, 10:08:01 am
Slowed down considerably by a borked back and the need to detour around parts of my ride which were flooded last night and so almost certainly are still flooded today!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 12 June, 2012, 10:27:25 am
Missed out on my usual ride in from Bromley this morning because I missed the early train so had to get the one that doesn't stop at Bromley...

Lately, I've got the 4.5km dash to the station down to about 8m 20s but this morning, with a stiff headwind and driving rain whipping in off the sea, it took 9m 50s. Max speed on the descent into town was a mere 46km/h - it's usually closer to 60. Got to the station just in time to watch the train pulling out. Why is the fecker never late when it would suit me?

Obviously, I should have left the house sooner, but I find it harder to get out of bed in the morning in winter...

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 12 June, 2012, 11:15:16 am
Stopped to ask a cyclist looking at a map if he needed directions. He didn't.

Nearly cycled into a bollard.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 12 June, 2012, 01:48:17 pm
Nice to be back, is all I'll say. Any mention of wimping out yesterday and working from home will be considered non-chivalrous. I can feel my t-shirt tan washing off by the minute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 12 June, 2012, 06:23:14 pm
'Orrible headwind on the ride home tonight.
Added 20 minutes to my time.

That's why the ride in this morning felt fast...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 12 June, 2012, 06:59:53 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 11 June, 2012, 07:30:24 pm
I never thought I'd find myself writing the following sentence:

I am so pleased to have a bike with mdgrds.

Gah! I can't even bring myself to write it.

*Singularly unimpressed with the 'Nutty's slimed bottom' flooded section under one of the bridges along Peckham canal path*
I rode through that one yesterday.  Without mudguards.  There was an even bigger and slightly more puzzling puddle just before the traffic lights at the junction of Tower Bridge Road and Bermondsey St.  How did that occur? (and, yes, I know it's been raining, but there's no obvious reason for water to accumulate there.
   And, a query.  Is there a coffee roastery somewhere on the industrial estate off Grange Rd in Bermondsey?  I often ride through that area and have never smelt it before, but yesterday there was the most amazing smell of roasting beans.
     Today I was only wet on the way in, so that's an improvement.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 12 June, 2012, 07:59:52 pm
Today overshoes were deployed.
My feet were toasty and dry  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: noggy on 12 June, 2012, 08:16:04 pm
I followed the Olympic Torch up the main road :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dinamo on 12 June, 2012, 08:24:14 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 11 June, 2012, 07:30:24 pm
I never thought I'd find myself writing the following sentence:

I am so pleased to have a bike with mdgrds.

Gah! I can't even bring myself to write it.

My commuting bike now has a permanent pair of mudguards fitted, I was getting fed up with wet bits !
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 12 June, 2012, 08:52:15 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 11 June, 2012, 07:30:24 pm
I never thought I'd find myself writing the following sentence:

I am so pleased to have a bike with mdgrds.

Gah! I can't even bring myself to write it.


It's a slippery slope.  Next thing you know you'll be fitting a rack and checking out the latest in sandals. ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: seraphina on 12 June, 2012, 08:56:55 pm
On the way home I passed a Mercedes estate which had ignored the (two) Road Closed signs and attempted to drive through the ford, which had burst its banks. It had gotten about 2/3rds of the way through before they got stuck - the water was up to the seats. I would have stopped to take a picture but thought that would have just added insult to injury. I did laugh to myself lots though.

Thankfully for cyclists there is a footbridge over the ford. My poor Horizon is looking filthy at the moment.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 12 June, 2012, 09:03:06 pm
Well started plodding in at my usual lethargic pace this morning when about halfway to work who rides up behind me but the same chap I rode home with last night, I don't normally see him that often.

Lo and behold my pace immediately rose a few mph and a very good ride into work was had.

Got a bit wet on the way home but wasn't heavy enough to warrant the waterproof. Did have to stop halfway to pull through a bit more front brake cable though as the pad wear meant stopping wasn't as oomphy as I'd like.

Had a massive dinner as I felt I needed it and now for a nice hot bath  :thumbsup:

Were my car working I'd have probably driven in this morning but I'm really glad I cycled... maybe I shouldn't fix it tomorrow  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 June, 2012, 09:09:05 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 12 June, 2012, 08:52:15 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 11 June, 2012, 07:30:24 pm
I never thought I'd find myself writing the following sentence:

I am so pleased to have a bike with mdgrds.

Gah! I can't even bring myself to write it.


It's a slippery slope.  Next thing you know you'll be fitting a rack and checking out the latest in sandals. ;)


I arrived in Morecambe with a dry bum.  Not everyone on the ride can say the same.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 12 June, 2012, 09:10:40 pm
Yes, anyone got any tips for drilling holes in fibreglass?  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 12 June, 2012, 09:15:01 pm
On the way home my brakes were a little less than effective.....

(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-fKMXyH8Grqk/T9ei6W6Iy6I/AAAAAAAAhfY/BX9FRjubaKI/s640/IMG_0559.JPG)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 June, 2012, 09:17:30 pm
Quote from: Kim on 12 June, 2012, 09:10:40 pm
Yes, anyone got any tips for drilling holes in fibreglass?  ;D

Eye protection & a mask.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 12 June, 2012, 10:26:00 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 12 June, 2012, 08:52:15 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 11 June, 2012, 07:30:24 pm
I never thought I'd find myself writing the following sentence:

I am so pleased to have a bike with mdgrds.

Gah! I can't even bring myself to write it.


It's a slippery slope.  Next thing you know you'll be fitting a rack and checking out the latest in sandals. ;)

I don't think so, somehow....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 13 June, 2012, 10:43:39 am
Had a big argument with a woman driving a Lexus 400h one of the gigantic hybrid 4x4s.
She was just crawling towards Albert Bridge and then speeding up and slowing to crawl again. When I caught up to her, I found that she was reading a text on her I phone, so I banged on her window - parhaps not the best thing to do, but at least it made her jump out of her reverie and pay attention to the world around her for a moment.

Of course she went ballistic at me for hitting her car.
We exchanged a few choice opinions her mainly about me having the temerity to touch her car, me mainly about her lack of driving skills.

All this whilst stationary in the road, so loads of cars hooting and puzzled cyclists riding past.

Eventually I tried to ride off, but she rolled forwards to block my entrance onto the bridge, which didn't work because I was able to bunny hop the kerb and ride on anyway, but she'd rolled too far forwards and had to back up to line up for the lane restrictor, which needed the guy behind her to reverse as well.

I was almost to the other side of the bridge before she caught me and made the obligatory punishment pass.

I simply rode around the other side of her, down to the head of the queue and off into the traffic.

I must give her credit for the last words: "Why don't you fuck off back to your own borough!"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 13 June, 2012, 11:20:42 am
Oooh, Alex! You hothead!   :P  :thumbsup:  ;D

More srsly, well done for telling her off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 13 June, 2012, 11:24:41 am
Quote from: alexb on 13 June, 2012, 10:43:39 am
"Why don't you fuck off back to your own borough!"

Baffled.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 June, 2012, 11:30:28 am
Well, the North end of Albert Bridge is the natural home for Chelsea Tractors.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 13 June, 2012, 12:14:10 pm
12 miles turned into 14 today. Must try to pay attention to where I'm going  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 13 June, 2012, 02:01:01 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 13 June, 2012, 11:24:41 am
Quote from: alexb on 13 June, 2012, 10:43:39 am
"Why don't you fuck off back to your own borough!"

Baffled.

a clear illustration of the "them & us" attitude too many motorists adopt.Particularly those with their heads up their arses mobile phones in their hands.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 13 June, 2012, 05:03:22 pm
Quote from: jogler on 13 June, 2012, 02:01:01 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 13 June, 2012, 11:24:41 am
Quote from: alexb on 13 June, 2012, 10:43:39 am
"Why don't you fuck off back to your own borough!"

Baffled.

a clear illustration of the "them & us" attitude too many motorists adopt.Particularly those with their heads up their arses mobile phones in their hands.

Yep. We're not talking about the sort of person who props the phone on the steering wheel in their eyeline. We're talking about someine holding the phone in their left hand about 45 degrees off the sight line and looking off to her left whilst driving along in a (nearly) straight line. Very slowly (because that's always safer in a 2 tonne vehicle in traffic). I assume she must have been long sighted and needed the phone a certain distance from her eyes to be able to clearly see the screen.

I'm sure she's told all of her friends about how ghastly I was.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 13 June, 2012, 05:53:07 pm
I saw a chap composing a text message while driving this morning, only he was doing it the "Old School" way - with a notepad and pen!

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 June, 2012, 06:51:00 pm
Retro!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 14 June, 2012, 07:16:38 am
DNF

(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-5nD1toSZrug/T9mBBOYQk2I/AAAAAAAAhgM/TLKRlECdceQ/s800/IMG_0568.JPG)

Fortunately not too much damage to me after ending up in the back of a parked car.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonBuoy on 14 June, 2012, 07:23:17 am
Ouch !

Pleased to hear that you are mostly OK.  Shame about the bike.

Am I correct in thinking that the broken handlebars were the cause rather than the effect?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 14 June, 2012, 07:28:36 am
Ow!

Glad you're ok.

Did the bar break before you hit the parked car?
EDIT: Same question as before.....
I see the answer is here (https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=60436.msg1250879;topicseen#msg1250879).
Scary.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 14 June, 2012, 07:41:48 am
I replied in the other thread before I saw this one, this one seems more appropriate as I have no idea why the bars have failed so catastrophically.

Glad to hear you are ok, though you must have really clattered the car at some speed to have bent the frame like that.

That really is a terrifying photo, the kind that gives me nightmares.

Look after yourself.
Title: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 14 June, 2012, 09:34:03 am
Yikes, Ham, that's nasty. Haven't read the other thread yet but hope you're ok.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 14 June, 2012, 11:19:59 am
On a lighter note, my commute this morning was... fun!

My normal commute routine at the moment is the short dash to the station (4.5km), get the train to Bromley, then ride in the rest of the way (16-18km depending on route). Thing is, I can only do that if I get the early train, and I wasn't able to do that this morning.

However, it was too gorgeous to miss out on a ride altogether, so I extended the station dash to ride to Faversham (12km, with sea views 8) ). And because I made good time, I then decided to plough on to Teynham, to round it up to 18km.

Got there to discover that the train I was planning to catch doesn't actually stop at Teynham...  :facepalm:

This meant I had no option but to press on to Sittingbourne - another 7km away by the most direct route, and only 12 minutes until the train was due... Hammer time!

And I made it. Just! Arrived at Sittingbourne station just as the train was pulling in.

Average overall speed about 31km/h, which is the fastest I've ever done that route on fixed by some margin. And something like 35km/h average for that last 7km, which is very spinny on a 65" gear. I think I need to gear up a bit.

I also made a new friend along the way. I first saw him on the road some way ahead of me crossing the Graveney marshes. He was too quick for me to close him down on the open road, but I'd almost caught him on the twisty bit through Faversham before I had to turn off. But as I was climbing Bysing Wood Rd, I heard a bike coming up behind me, glanced round and it was him - he obviously doesn't know the back roads of Faversham like I do. He was on his way to Sittingbourne - doing it for his commute for the first time, so well done him - and we rode together and chatted as far as Teynham. I did briefly toy with the idea of sticking with him all the way to Sittingbourne but thought I didn't have time. Ironic, really.  ;D

Overall... Cracking ride. Lots of fun.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 14 June, 2012, 01:00:32 pm
Slow today average of 16 mph, was quite stiff breeze really, managed to take all the correct turnings on my new route that was discovered prior to my hols.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 14 June, 2012, 01:40:04 pm
Quote from: Si_Co on 14 June, 2012, 01:00:32 pm
Slow today average of 16 mph, was quite stiff breeze really

It did occur to me that my ride this morning might have been slightly wind-assisted, though it felt like a headwind in places. Will see if I'm as fast on the way home in the opposite direction...

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 14 June, 2012, 02:34:10 pm
Flippin eck, Ham! :o  That's an impressive bit of metal bending, and I'm pleased you're still with us after that.

citoyen, you just get faster and faster.  It's a bit scary.  One day, you'll be so fast you'll start braking in North Kent and finally come to a stop outside my house.  Come in for a cup of tea, though, won't you? ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: plum on 14 June, 2012, 05:16:39 pm
Yowser, that's a big one Ham.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 14 June, 2012, 08:50:50 pm
Puncture - rear wheel on the fixie, natch, in the process of replacing the tube I was 'assisted' by a couple of street drinkers.
Two beeps and an indecipherable but nontheless terrifying shout on the A52.
Two very close passes - one due to carelessness (texting suspected), the other to aggression/impatience.
Caught at both sets of level-crossings.
All into the strongest headwind this year.

Worst commute I can remember. Is it a full moon, or is there some football on somewhere. Or has the govt started putting something new in the water?

Luckily, these things happen infrequently individually, let alone together.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 14 June, 2012, 09:54:13 pm
When it's not raining there's a bloody headwind.  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 14 June, 2012, 10:17:31 pm
Jeez!  Glad you're OK, Ham. The stuff of nightmares.

Dare I ask how the parked car fared?  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 14 June, 2012, 10:21:33 pm
Did the commute to our Uxbridge office today.  Succeeded in proving my idle boast correct - that it is quicker to get from Basingstoke to Uxbridge by bicycle than by public transport (2hr 10 min plays 2hr 15min).  Certainly a whole lot better than trusting the journey to First Great Western and a couple of buses.  Nice sunshine on the way out, tailwind and heavy showers on the way back.  Didn't dampen my enthusiasm.  Better showers in Uxbridge than my usual Reading abode too.   :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 14 June, 2012, 10:22:48 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 14 June, 2012, 10:17:31 pm
Jeez!  Glad you're OK, Ham. The stuff of nightmares.

Dare I ask how the parked car fared?  ;)

The parked car was a W reg fiesta, so not especially well, but neither was it that noticeable  ;D . I left my number, I haven't heard anything.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 14 June, 2012, 10:50:39 pm
Tailwind home!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 14 June, 2012, 11:22:42 pm
Went home via The Womens Library, where I attended a fascinating talk on cycling and the suffrage movement.  NSTN and Butterfly were also there, as well as a few other folk we know.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 15 June, 2012, 08:23:55 am
Edinburgh council are such a f%ck up. Trams works screwing everyone.  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 15 June, 2012, 08:56:27 am
It staggers me that such a beautifull city can be scarred to such an extent for so long by civil engineering works that appear to the eye as war damage.
IME the city didn't need a tram system in the first place.
In the 80's I travelled throughout Edinburgh & environs extensively using my car,taxis,trains & public transport & getting about was not a difficulty.
Hell, I even walked the length of Princess St many times from Waverley St station just to admire the architecture & promenade.I've never done that anywhere else in U.K. & I don't do walking as a rule.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 15 June, 2012, 12:15:22 pm
What a stonking ride last night, massive tailwind saw an average speed 0f 24.5 mph before i had to slow to cross the locks, it's quite an odd feeling cruising with the speedo showing 22 and the arrow pointing down to indicate the average is falling.

Headwind this morning, hey ho swings and roundabouts
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 15 June, 2012, 12:19:25 pm
Quote from: clarion on 14 June, 2012, 02:34:10 pm
citoyen, you just get faster and faster.  It's a bit scary.  One day, you'll be so fast you'll start braking in North Kent and finally come to a stop outside my house.  Come in for a cup of tea, though, won't you? ;D

What's really scary is that I've started to develop an unhealthy interest in esoteric concepts like VO2max and Functional Threshold Power...  ;D

Calling in for a cuppa sounds like a good idea - our routes into work must almost overlap in places anyway, so it's hardly off route.

Anyway, back to more normal speeds this morning, thanks to the wind having changed direction. I don't think my Friday legs were up to repeating yesterday's levels of output anyway.  :P

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 15 June, 2012, 12:33:10 pm
Headwind got into the neck of my waterproof jacket and blew my shoulders up like balloons, knocking 3mph off my speed. My jacket is like a drag chute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 15 June, 2012, 12:46:27 pm
Ugh:

http://bere.co.uk/blog/cycling-anti-pollution-masks-in-london-after-1-month

(http://bere.co.uk/sites/default/files/styles/thin_full_width/public/field/image/Filter-Mask-Anti-Pollution-passivhaus-bere-archtiects-1.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 15 June, 2012, 12:49:33 pm
Headwind1, unfitness and a slightly slower cyclist2 in front of me made for a slow ride in this morning.

This was counterbalanced by the facts that: I'm on the bike at all as working away from base has been playing havoc with my commuting and it was still quicker than driving would have been.  There was some sort of hold up at the end of the road where I work and the tail back included almost every car which had overtaken me since the middle of our village!

Notes:

1) The headwind has now moved to be a side wind, so I won't get the assistance on the way home  >:(
2) I couldn't easily overtake as I'm really feeling unfit so needed to be in the right place (i.e. going downhill!) and every time that happened there was a stream of cars overtaking me.

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 15 June, 2012, 05:50:18 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 15 June, 2012, 12:46:27 pm
Ugh:

http://bere.co.uk/blog/cycling-anti-pollution-masks-in-london-after-1-month

(http://bere.co.uk/sites/default/files/styles/thin_full_width/public/field/image/Filter-Mask-Anti-Pollution-passivhaus-bere-archtiects-1.jpg)

The comments on there ask some valid questions.  My nose has a lot more black snot after using the tube than it ever does on a bicycle commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 15 June, 2012, 05:53:21 pm
Quote from: TimO on 15 June, 2012, 05:50:18 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 15 June, 2012, 12:46:27 pm
Ugh:

http://bere.co.uk/blog/cycling-anti-pollution-masks-in-london-after-1-month

(http://bere.co.uk/sites/default/files/styles/thin_full_width/public/field/image/Filter-Mask-Anti-Pollution-passivhaus-bere-archtiects-1.jpg)

The comments on there ask some valid questions.  My nose has a lot more black snot after using the tube than it ever does on a bicycle commute.

Air quality on the tube is atrocious due to brake dust. Another reason to prefer cycling between mainline stations.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 15 June, 2012, 05:57:01 pm
I reckon you'd be hard pushed to find somewhere where such an air filter wouldn't look like that after a month.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 15 June, 2012, 05:59:20 pm
Quote from: Kim on 15 June, 2012, 05:57:01 pm
I reckon you'd be hard pushed to find somewhere where such an air filter wouldn't look like that after a month.

Hmm. West coast of Ireland.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 15 June, 2012, 06:00:11 pm
Yeah.  I was trying to work out where had the same sort of rainfall as Manchester, without the Manchester.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 15 June, 2012, 06:02:28 pm
Surely a lot depends on how evil the particles are too? I'm sure it's not good to be breathing in any particles, but some are worse than others, right?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 15 June, 2012, 06:04:10 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 15 June, 2012, 06:02:28 pm
Surely a lot depends on how evil the particles are too? I'm sure it's not good to be breathing in any particles, but some are worse than others, right?

On the tube, it's brake dust. Evil.

Above ground, in London, it's PM10s (mainly from Diesel exhaust, now officially a class 1 carcinogen), tyre rubber, and brake dust. And your normal, edible dust. Also evil.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 15 June, 2012, 06:06:18 pm
Quite.  The respiratory system is designed to filter out particles - that's what all the snot, teeth and nosehair and so on are about - but I'm sure that brake dust and diesel exhaust are a lot nastier than naturally occurring flies dust and pollen.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 15 June, 2012, 06:11:03 pm
AFAIK most of the facemask solutions do nothing for the very small particles, I think PM10s. I wonder what brake dust is like?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 15 June, 2012, 06:14:49 pm
Today's commute was a bit different. Walk to the station and get off at Waterloo. Look for a bike. End up walking to Jubilee Gardens, then head along to Blackfriars bridge. Turning right at the end wasn't the nicest but it wasn't too bad at about 820am.

Then ensued David's Magical Mystery Tour of London, endeavouring to find Barbican and hence Charterhouse Square.

On the way home Iw as heading out to Canning Town/West Ham to pick up my Olympic volunteers uniform.
Bike from Barbican to Bank. Err, no, there were no slots avaialbel and the city has a black hole around bank for bike racks.

Ended up ditching the bike at Aldgate and tube tube dlr (sit at the front and pretend you are the driver) to get the uniform. Then tube and bus all the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 15 June, 2012, 06:22:03 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 15 June, 2012, 06:11:03 pm
AFAIK most of the facemask solutions do nothing for the very small particles, I think PM10s. I wonder what brake dust is like?

Hmm, totobobo claim their filters block out 94% of 0.3um particles, that's a lot smaller than 10um.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 15 June, 2012, 06:26:33 pm
I think my vacuum cleaner filter Looks worse than that after a month and that never leaves the house!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 15 June, 2012, 06:37:23 pm
I had a look at the list of carcinogens, and collie hair isn't on it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 15 June, 2012, 06:44:17 pm
I must admit I should re-look at that whole pollution mask issue. I don't think London pollution is doing me much good, and it's very bad here, much worse than I realised since the mayor election raised this in my awareness.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 15 June, 2012, 06:52:34 pm
Puddles and potholes and rain and hail and thunder and lightning and astonishingly brilliant sunshine and a baby bunny to play SCR with and a lemming-like ipod listening (it's the only possible excuse for his behaviour) weasel.  O and some traffic and close passes and beeping and stuff, but that didn't matter.

A weasel!  Probably.  I'm rubbish at all that nature stuff.

I do like the Friday commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 15 June, 2012, 09:10:14 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 15 June, 2012, 06:44:17 pm
I must admit I should re-look at that whole pollution mask issue. I don't think London pollution is doing me much good, and it's very bad here, much worse than I realised since the mayor election raised this in my awareness.


I'm not sure that they give any benefit. But I do think it could be a good campaigning tactic if every pedestrian and cyclist wore a pollution mask when the Olympics takes place. It might make an impression on all the visitors from abroad and raise some awkward questions.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 15 June, 2012, 09:55:33 pm
A mask needs a good fit to work. The totobobo one is interesting because it's designed to be cut down if too large for your face.

I took advantage of the football and quiet roads and sunshine to do more than 40 miles. The long southerly section was very hard work and my average speed was dropping, it was very windy, I was very glad when I turned north. 26.4kph average which is ok.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 16 June, 2012, 08:28:09 am
Having worn all sorts of masks all through my working life I'd hate to have to wear one for cycling.

Saturday commutes are usually a lovely experience but today I think someone must have painted a target on me or there was a 'how close can you get to the cyclist competition' going on in Timperley.

Quite a serious headwind today, all these morning headwinds are a bit strange it's usually the other way round.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 16 June, 2012, 02:27:15 pm
Quote from: Si_Co on 16 June, 2012, 08:28:09 am
Quite a serious headwind today, all these morning headwinds are a bit strange it's usually the other way round.

Should've kept my mouth shut  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 16 June, 2012, 07:56:43 pm
Does that mean you use a totobobo, Simon?

Wow, what a serious headwind today!!! So glad I was on the lowracer, I could take the slightly longer route to stay out of the wind in the windshear layer on country lanes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 16 June, 2012, 09:57:26 pm
Masks will be a pain to breathe through and unless you are extremely assiduously cleaning them act as a wonderful breeding ground for sore throats. I have used masks before and would not consider using them extensively for cycling and even then would use disposables.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 16 June, 2012, 10:23:02 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 16 June, 2012, 07:56:43 pm
Does that mean you use a totobobo, Simon?

No. Thinking about giving one a try. Perhaps a supercool as it doesn't cover the nose.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 17 June, 2012, 08:49:46 am
IME masks that cover the nose lead to fogging of lenses as the exhalation always escapes up the edges. Really they are useless unless well fitted, there's a number of companies out there who specialise in such things:

http://www.face-fit.co.uk/fit-testing.asp
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 17 June, 2012, 09:48:05 am
Quote from: simonp on 16 June, 2012, 10:23:02 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 16 June, 2012, 07:56:43 pm
Does that mean you use a totobobo, Simon?

No. Thinking about giving one a try. Perhaps a supercool as it doesn't cover the nose.

Yeah me too, thanks to your recommendation. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 17 June, 2012, 09:51:24 am
The one thing I know for sure is that anything that has to call itself supercool won't be, in any sense.....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 18 June, 2012, 08:05:10 am
Running late today, so that was bed to desk in 50 mins. Cream crackered now
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 June, 2012, 09:42:48 am
Despite the rain earlier, wet roads, absurdly close passes (I hope one van driver in particular shat his pants when Butterfly screamed), left hooks, idiotic parking, car dancing and oil everywhere, that was a fun ride! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jimini on 18 June, 2012, 10:07:23 am
I encountered an old granny waving her walking stick at me whilst coming down Strand this morning, berating me for not cycling on the pavement. Certainly perked up my morning!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 18 June, 2012, 04:21:59 pm
Dear driver.  Thanks for parping at me this morning.  I must have not been concentrating on my road positioning, and I guessed that your parp should be interpreted as “I really think you should ride a bit higher on the road for this narrow bit, mate.”
I was obviously correct in my assumption, as no sooner had I moved out a bit, you parped again.  Obviously an appreciative “That’s much better, mate”

Thanks driver.  Have a great day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 18 June, 2012, 04:51:31 pm
Bloody cyclists, eh? Coming off York Rd onto the Waterloo roundabout this morning, heading for Stamford Street, I had to take evasive action to avoid hitting two of the feckers who'd decided not to wait for the lights to change in their favour before crossing my path to get onto Waterloo Bridge. Grrr!  >:(

Quite a bizarre situation, really - which is my real reason for mentioning it. My normal experience of riding along York Rd at that time of the morning (just before 10am) is that it's chocka with traffic, and the lights before the roundabout are usually red when I get there. This morning, York Rd was completely clear. There were no motor vehicles anywhere near me when I reached the roundabout. Most odd.

Anyway, no harm done. I did give an almight yell of "TWATS!" as I came past the two cyclists, but that was as much to make sure they were aware of my presence as anything. And although they were in the wrong, I could have helped myself by approaching the junction in a more circumspect manner (I was doing about 35km/h at the time). I don't think I was in any real danger of hitting them though.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 18 June, 2012, 04:53:00 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 18 June, 2012, 04:51:31 pm
Bloody cyclists, eh? Coming off York Rd onto the Waterloo roundabout this morning, heading for Stamford Street, I had to take evasive action to avoid hitting two of the feckers who'd decided not to wait for the lights to change in their favour before crossing my path to get onto Waterloo Bridge. Grrr!  >:(

Quite a bizarre situation, really - which is my real reason for mentioning it. My normal experience of riding along York Rd at that time of the morning (just before 10am) is that it's chocka with traffic, and the lights before the roundabout are usually red when I get there. This morning, York Rd was completely clear. There were no motor vehicles anywhere near me when I reached the roundabout. Most odd.

Anyway, no harm done. I did give an almight yell of "TWATS!" as I came past the two cyclists, but that was as much to make sure they were aware of my presence as anything. And although they were in the wrong, I could have helped myself by approaching the junction in a more circumspect manner (I was doing about 35km/h at the time). I don't think I was in any real danger of hitting them though.

d.

Something similar to this?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yHH2M2a9xuQ
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 18 June, 2012, 04:55:42 pm
Yes, very!  ;D

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 18 June, 2012, 07:10:08 pm
Frigging pxxxxxxe on the way home, there's flipping smashed glass EVERYWHERE, like pub pint glass shards, who roams the streets smashing glasses and why can't they be put to death in the face with sticks?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 18 June, 2012, 08:00:42 pm
Three days of rain have made the tunnel very drippy.  :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 18 June, 2012, 08:22:12 pm
Quote from: Si_Co on 18 June, 2012, 08:05:10 am
Running late today, so that was bed to desk in 50 mins. Cream crackered now

I can do bed to desk much much quicker than that ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 18 June, 2012, 09:01:34 pm
Was rather tired when the alarm went this morning and a cold grey mizzly morning made it hard to get out on the bike. But I did and had a good ride in and a nice sunny ride home even if the breeze was right against me.

Couple that with a lovely dinner and things are looking good. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 18 June, 2012, 09:11:39 pm
Approaching mini roundabout at 20mph. What does muppet in car do? Pull out in front to get ahead of me in order to do… 15mph.  ::-)

Cue overtaking at 25mph.  :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 18 June, 2012, 09:29:40 pm
Ha Ha!

Similar a few months ago...
Grimping up the final part of the climb, a Nissan Micra ish thing containing a combined age of 400 or so passes me badly.   2 other cars pass me, stuck behind it.   5 mins later, we're on the descent.   I find myself behind the queue of 3, going at the same speed as they were on the climb. About 30 mph at a guess.  After a few seconds, I pull out and pass all 3 :-)

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 June, 2012, 09:46:34 pm
Only passed by two cyclists on the entire ride home.  And one of those was a racing snake on a Colnago up Spankers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 18 June, 2012, 11:14:10 pm
Ascot week for the rest of the week so either a crowded train or riding down Ascot High Street with all the taxis trying to get to their pick up points and lots of drunk race goers. Not fun either way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 19 June, 2012, 10:13:28 am
Re-calibrated the speedo last night. For some time now I've been convinced it's not reading correctly.
It seems I'm right, but not by much.

Yesterday (with incorrectly calibrated speedo), no wind and a decent wind up, I hit 53kph across Tooting Bec, today, with less wind up and a headwind I hit 46kph, so I really don't know...
On the other hand, why is it that when I indicate a right turn it usually prompts the cars behind me to overtake?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 19 June, 2012, 10:46:12 am
A pleasant, uneventful, run. Left hand and arm sub optimal, otherwise all A-OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 19 June, 2012, 11:02:16 am
Quote from: Ham on 19 June, 2012, 10:46:12 am
A pleasant, uneventful, run. Left hand and arm sub optimal, otherwise all A-OK.

 :thumbsup: (except for the left hand & arm, obviously)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 June, 2012, 11:06:48 am
A very pleasant ride in (numpty drivers notwithstanding).  Butterfly wasn't on the tandem, so was a bit faster, which makes for a safer ride through the infrastructural nonsense which is Streatham.  Got a small loop in as well, adding 3km.  Dry & warm, which I'm starting to think of as unseasonal.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 19 June, 2012, 11:14:07 am
Draft email to a school I pass on my morning ride:

Quote
I regularly cycle past your school in the morning on my way into Sittingbourne, and I regularly see parents parking on the yellow zigzag lines outside the school.

This is very inconsiderate and selfish behaviour. Those yellow zigzags are there for the safety of your pupils, and parents who park there while dropping off their own children are risking the safety of other children. I would appreciate it if you would pass this message on to the parents and remind them of their responsibilities.

I shall also be contacting the local police to express my concerns. You might mention to the parents that parking on yellow zigzags causes an unnecessary obstruction, which is a traffic offence attracting a fixed penalty fine. Hopefully, this might encourage them to find a more suitable place to park.

Thoughts?

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 June, 2012, 11:20:45 am
Bazooka is easier, and more likely to get a result.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 19 June, 2012, 11:28:54 am
Hmmm, now where did I leave my bazooka licence...

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 19 June, 2012, 11:40:05 am
Make friends with traffic/ticket warden. Ask if they could 'happen' to wander down that way. (this assumes that it's a parking rather than traffic offense - I'm sure someone on here will know).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 19 June, 2012, 11:49:00 am
I looked it up to make sure I don't make a complete tit of myself...

AIUI, it's not an offence to park on yellow zigzags per se, but if you are parked on yellow zigzags, you can get a FPN for causing an obstruction.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 19 June, 2012, 12:19:59 pm
Mrs Ham has a constant battle with her parents over inconsiderate parking (starting "please walk or use public transport") but you ain't seen nuttin' till you've seen how bad it gets outside some schools in West London. I would also write to the head if you feel strongly about it. They might think you are an interfering busybody, or they might feel it is useful ammunition in their battle.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 19 June, 2012, 12:25:41 pm
You could always start up a parking abusers website with photos and indexed registration plates. A bit like youparklikeacunt.co.uk, but more politely worded, suitable for parents and children.

Then get some cards made up suggesting where to find their registration (in google, natch), and slip one under each offending car. Advertise it thoroughly to parents and children, and ask them to snap and submit photos.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 19 June, 2012, 12:30:43 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 19 June, 2012, 11:40:05 am
Make friends with traffic/ticket warden. Ask if they could 'happen' to wander down that way. (this assumes that it's a parking rather than traffic offense - I'm sure someone on here will know).

Alternately make friends with the local PCSO, an officer with on a bike at the school gates at pick up and drop off times is the most effective deterent I've seen.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 19 June, 2012, 07:41:46 pm
Quote from: clarion on 19 June, 2012, 11:20:45 am
Bazooka is easier, and more likely to get a result.
Ha!
Before I'd seen this reply my response was going to be:

"Tame. Get a gun"

 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 19 June, 2012, 08:03:25 pm
Eight miles in and a luvverly twenty mile loop over Epsom Downs and Tadworth  on the way home  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 19 June, 2012, 08:40:23 pm
3 lanes of traffic. Get out of saddle to accelerate and merge right. Bang! broken chain, bounce off handlebars, almost not quite fall over. Cars notice and stop without running me down. Rejoined chain but restricted to two gears (a bit high or a bit low).

Strained back muscles and bruised knee.  Blast.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 19 June, 2012, 08:53:29 pm
Got stopped by security on the way into the car park.

"What are those handlebars?"

Turned out the guy was doing his first triathlon and was looking for something more comfortable. Not sure that Midge  Bars are his best bet for that but I like them for my use.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 19 June, 2012, 08:56:43 pm
Remained dry both ways!
Dodged heavy downpours by minutes both ways!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 19 June, 2012, 09:07:35 pm
Bellowed very loudly at a woman who looked right at me (or through me) and then decided to enter the roundabout anyway.  Then she stopped  :)

I think it helped that her window was wound down and she got the full experience (which, for once, wasn't rude).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 19 June, 2012, 09:11:41 pm
Yesterday when I looked out of the window from work it was fine so I got dressed in summer garb.  Sunglasses were put on my face. I am traveling East so the aim was to avoid insects rather than glare.  I came back from the changing room (toilet) and noticed it was now raining.  So I put the sunglasses back in the bag and dug out the rain coat.  After a while I realise that the roads are dry and it is not raining so the coat went back in the bag.  As I approached home I climb the final lane and get hit in the face by a cloud of ephemeoptera. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 19 June, 2012, 09:22:15 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 19 June, 2012, 08:40:23 pm
3 lanes of traffic. Get out of saddle to accelerate and merge right. Bang! broken chain, bounce off handlebars, almost not quite fall over. Cars notice and stop without running me down. Rejoined chain but restricted to two gears (a bit high or a bit low).

Strained back muscles and bruised knee.  Blast.

Ouch. And ouch.

How are your nuts?*

(*I'm assuming the 'mr' means you have, or at least had, them.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dora on 19 June, 2012, 09:32:14 pm
Had my first thing thrown at me from a moving vehicle. It appeared to be a full can of 7up.  Can't say I blame them, the stuff is rank.
Predictably, it's aim was rubbish and it missed by miles. Prat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 19 June, 2012, 09:38:22 pm
Headed out into the fens. >35 miles on flat, quiet roads, little to no wind, and >19mph average on the Pompino. Wasn't even wearing proper cycling shorts. I predict a very slow commute tomorrow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 19 June, 2012, 09:47:28 pm
Quote from: Dora on 19 June, 2012, 09:32:14 pm
Had my first thing thrown at me from a moving vehicle. It appeared to be a full can of 7up.  Can't say I blame them, the stuff is rank.
Predictably, it's aim was rubbish and it missed by miles. Prat.

Shame you didn't get the chance to throw it back. My tolerance of this and similar behaviour has really dropped recently. I find the slightest thing makes me want to "have words" with the perpetrator.

I'm glad they missed you.

Fuckers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 19 June, 2012, 10:02:52 pm
Fastest ride of the year today: 26.5kph average. :)

Very quiet roads on the way home (during the football), but that didn't mean there weren't idiots on the roads.  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 19 June, 2012, 10:18:25 pm
My ride definitely felt fast this evening, but there's no computer on Vince, so I had no actual evidence, it just felt relatively fast and easy.

It was a very pleasant commute, very light or nonexistent wind for once, as Andrij found few cars (I deliberately left as late as possible, to try and get home just as the football was finishing).  Not the quietest commute ever, but not far off.  Since it was around sunset, it was just starting to cool, so a near perfect temperature, and enough light to still see by easily, for most of the journey.

I was amazed at the number of cars that thought lights optional when it was clearly dark enough to need them.  People can be quite spectacularly stupid about such things.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 19 June, 2012, 10:23:10 pm
Lovely ride home in the sunshine. Would have gone the long way but had to get home to wait for a delivery. Which did turn up so at least the waiting at home wasn't wasted.

The ride home felt harder and slower but was a few minutes quicker.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 19 June, 2012, 10:24:34 pm
Quote from: Paul on 19 June, 2012, 09:22:15 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 19 June, 2012, 08:40:23 pm
3 lanes of traffic. Get out of saddle to accelerate and merge right. Bang! broken chain, bounce off handlebars, almost not quite fall over. Cars notice and stop without running me down. Rejoined chain but restricted to two gears (a bit high or a bit low).

Strained back muscles and bruised knee.  Blast.

Ouch. And ouch.ft

How are your nuts?*

(*I'm assuming the 'mr' means you have, or at least had, them.)
The male protect nuts reflex saved them
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dinamo on 19 June, 2012, 10:27:17 pm
Warm ride into work earlier.......and dry !

Stopped on the way to buy todays 'i' newspaper, just realised I was sold a copy of Mondays edition, took me until the sports pages to figure it out !
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 June, 2012, 07:32:21 am
I rode home via Richmond Park again, fitting in a full circuit before meeting Butterfly and going to see a comedy gig in an unlikely setting before riding home together.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 20 June, 2012, 07:57:34 am
Lovely ride in today, had a few issues with babbage engine after setting off,new batteries in the sender, still doesn't work, reset, still no worky, 'persuade' it with the handle of the carving knife.........ah yes that'll do nicely  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 20 June, 2012, 08:21:03 am
First cyclo-commute for what seems like months. Good to be back. Only one twat in a Range Rover worthy of shouting at.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 20 June, 2012, 09:07:48 am
I went Zooooooooooooooooooom this morning :D

(for me on the tandem, anyway ;D - 12.8 mph average: usual is about 10 8))
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 June, 2012, 09:21:34 am
I had to be fast.  For a couple of reasons, I didn't leave the house until nearly 0800.  But I did get to work on time, even if I wasn't logged on until after 0900 (I had had a discussion already about some matters before I got changed).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 20 June, 2012, 09:55:57 am
In spite of selecting 'random play' on my mp3 payer, this morning's commute was mostly to the musical accompaniment of Gogol Bordello.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 20 June, 2012, 09:59:54 am
I'm at the barber's. Taking it easy today, giving my legs a rest.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 20 June, 2012, 06:51:32 pm
Lovely cycling today. Sunny and warm and a tailwind home  :thumbsup:

Though I did get yelled at on the way in for the heinous crime of cycling in a straight line at a reasonable speed. Apparently my not moving into the parking bays to save the driver behind me a good two seconds of waiting behind me means I "need to learn to cycle"  ::-)

Zoomed home. At the 11 mile point my average speed was 16.9mph! For me that's mega quick  ;D Lost a bit after that as I hit the junctiony bit of the ride but still pleased.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 21 June, 2012, 12:57:08 am
I had a lovely warm part sunny commute in this evening. The Soay sheep were peacefully munching grass on Cheddar Gorge, and some random bird (avian not human) did a near perfect rendition of New Order's 'Blue Monday' which was nice. I fully expect to get precipitated upon on my way home in the morning now to make up for it!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 21 June, 2012, 01:12:44 am
I caught up with a lady cyclist who draughted me for about a mile. She jumped the lights though so escaped. Think I’ve seen her on a club run. I think she sped up when i caught her because being overtaken by a beat up pompino when riding a fast bike isn’t on. :)

I only did 18 miles and took it easier, only just under 17mph. Legs less heavy than expected but they weren’t up for sprinting uphill.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 21 June, 2012, 07:53:48 am
Yes Mr Muppet there was a reason I didn't shoot that gap in the traffic to turn right, it was all that shiny stuff on the junction which you discovered after you'd overtaken me as I was waiting, lost the back end and nearly ended up under the oncoming 7.5 tonner  ::-)

Slow today, legs like lead, a headwind a general feeling of ICBA resulted in an average of just 15.8mph
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: darkpoint on 21 June, 2012, 09:04:39 am
Today's story is located at the traffic lights before Elephant and Castle roundabout..   When I made it to the ASL there was a lass in a floral dress on a sit up and beg bike,  fumbling in her basket..  She took out a mobile phone, and took some photos of the motorcyclists that where also in the ASL,  to be fair they had only just rolled in, so they where visible to the cars..  So it was the safe place for them to be. 

I accept that the law states that they shouldn't be there,  but they where not good examples of nasty dangerous motorcyclist in our space,  they where sensible chaps,  positioning themselves safely.

Once the photos where taken, the motorcyclists and I where left gobsmacked, as she put her phone away, and cycled off through the red lights. 

I was really disappointed that it was quite a while before they changed, and I couldn’t catch her up to ask about it..  I am really sure that she doesn't see the irony of her actions.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 21 June, 2012, 09:14:07 am
Amazing, isn't it? I don't mind motorcycles in the ASL either, it seems the best place for them.
Title: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 21 June, 2012, 09:19:46 am
Brilliant. I can only laugh at things like that. Far too stupid to be taken seriously.

After the last couple of days of glorious weather, back to situation normal this morning. Luckily, I was only lightly situation-normalled on; there had been a spell of very heavy situation normal shortly before I set off.

d.




Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 June, 2012, 09:20:53 am
I do mind them.  They often start into the access gap and block it when they find they can't get through.  On CS7 in particular, there are sometimes 20 or more cyclists at a phase of the lights.  If there are three PTWs in the ASL (and there frequently are), that takes up a lot of space, and can make starting off a dangerous prospect.

As it is, I've photographed some numpty drivers this morning.  But I didn't go through any red lights :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 June, 2012, 09:25:25 am
Loughborough Junction, Brixton:

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v326/ado15/IMAG0553.jpg)

Not quite as bad as it looks there, but the bridge was several inches short of being sufficient.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: graculus on 21 June, 2012, 11:32:48 am
Quote from: clarion on 21 June, 2012, 09:25:25 am

Not quite as bad as it looks there, but the bridge was several inches short of being sufficient.

You will find much of interest here then:

http://www.expressandstar.com/news/2012/06/20/midland-metro-bridge-crashes-in-pictures/ (http://www.expressandstar.com/news/2012/06/20/midland-metro-bridge-crashes-in-pictures/)


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 21 June, 2012, 01:16:23 pm
Quote from: graculus on 21 June, 2012, 11:32:48 am
Quote from: clarion on 21 June, 2012, 09:25:25 am

Not quite as bad as it looks there, but the bridge was several inches short of being sufficient.

You will find much of interest here then:

http://www.expressandstar.com/news/2012/06/20/midland-metro-bridge-crashes-in-pictures/ (http://www.expressandstar.com/news/2012/06/20/midland-metro-bridge-crashes-in-pictures/)

 ::-)
Time to ban satnav in lorries?
or charge drivers for the damage and emergency service time?
I do feel that the cost of all damage to street furniture etc should always be divided between all the involved vehicles - that way they don't have the option of arguing that it's someone else's fault - if your vehicle bent the railings, you pay for the railings. If you were on the train, the railings would still be straight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 June, 2012, 01:22:04 pm
I agree.  But the lorry this morning hadn't (I believe) hit the bridge.  Rather, it had stopped short.  A case of a driver following satnav, yet (unusually) being aware of the height of the vehicle, so, as soon as he'd turned into Loughborough Road and was immediately presented with a low (not very low, tbh) bridge, he stopped.

The problem was that he then blocked the road for all motor traffic.  Bikes got past just fine, as it happens :smug:

Reversing back out onto Coldharbour Lane may have been a very long task, though a truck driver who had been heading the other way along Loughborough Rd stopped and acted as banksman.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 21 June, 2012, 01:31:10 pm
There really ought to be a sign warning of the height restriction at the start of the road. I've looked on Google Street View and can't see one. Therefore I'd say the lorry driver can't be wholly blamed for this one.

You might think they'd check their route for such problems before setting out, though. I remember when we first moved to Whitstable, I made a point of warning the removals firm of the low railway bridge on the way into town. It doesn't take a lot of foresight to anticipate these problems.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 June, 2012, 01:40:38 pm
It does say 14'3" on the bridge, which is clearly visible from the turn.

Coldharbour Lane East has a bridge with a 14'3" sign, so I guess that's not where he came from.  Coldharbour Lane to the West seems to have a lower bridge, but no height marked either side :o  The bridge on Hinton Rd is rather higher, but that's a stupidly narrow broad to bring an HGV down.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: why1040 on 21 June, 2012, 01:45:27 pm
Lorry drivers unfortunately often get sent daily on completely new routes, covering hundreds of miles per day.  Road closures, traffic congestion and a hundred other things can mean that they have to take a different route to the one anticipated, even on a route they've done before.  If satnavs were truly fit for purpose, they'd have an option to take into account size of vehicle (in all directions) and bridges/narrow country lanes/etc, but most of them don't.  Driving an HGV means taking into account not hitting the kerb as you turn, not taking out the turns too much while still making it round, observing everything round you at all times while also reading hundreds of signs every mile, observing traffic ahead and figuring out where you're going.  When roads then also don't have the appropriate signage at the start (like a narrow country lane near us...starts off looking like a lovely lane wide enough for two cars, goes round a bend and suddenly becomes narrow enough that taking some cars down it is a challenge even if you don't meet anything else-no warning of this at the entry to the road), it becomes just about impossible.

I don't drive HGVs, but an ex of mine did.  She hasn't hit any bridges, but she's come close (as in turned down the road to discover she couldn't go further) twice-once as she was focussing on the traffic and didn't see the warning sign til she was a bit close, the other because there wasn't a warning sign...apparently someone had nicked it.

Just occasionally, someone makes a mistake.  It's commonly known as being human and no matter how conscientious, it's going to happen. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 June, 2012, 01:53:17 pm
Just had a closer look.  There's a second bridge up Hinton Rd at 12'3"

I don't know how the truck had even got there - the junction is surrounded by bridges at the height he was having a problem with or lower. ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 21 June, 2012, 03:53:20 pm
could it be that the driver had delivered a load, then when unloaded he couldn't get back out?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 21 June, 2012, 03:54:38 pm
Better mapping data and satnavs will soon enough fix this problem.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 21 June, 2012, 04:02:32 pm
Yeah, my sympathy's with the driver on this one.  We're all human, navigational cockups happen.  Nobody got hurt, and they stopped before damaging anything.  To me, that suggests their priorities were at least in the right order.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 21 June, 2012, 04:05:18 pm
Quote from: why1040 on 21 June, 2012, 01:45:27 pm
If satnavs were truly fit for purpose...

Ha! If only.

Quote
Just occasionally, someone makes a mistake.  It's commonly known as being human and no matter how conscientious, it's going to happen.

Of course. And looking at the bigger picture, it's the economic forces that put these huge vehicles in city centres that is the real problem, not the odd mistakes of the individual drivers.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 June, 2012, 04:49:03 pm
Citoyen's right.  The driver made a mistake.  That happens.  But it's utterly inappropriate that an articulated lorry should be going through that junction.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wobbly John on 21 June, 2012, 05:16:27 pm
Quote from: clarion on 21 June, 2012, 09:20:53 am

As it is, I've photographed some numpty drivers this morning.  But I didn't go through any red lights :P

...and presumably, you weren't wearing a floral dress and riding a sit-up-and-beg bike?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bobb on 21 June, 2012, 05:22:11 pm
Somwhat OT, but still involving low bridges.... A few years ago a big truck pulled up as I walked along. He got out and showed me a hand drawn map with instructions on how to get to his destination in the town centre. As it happened, all he needed to do was turn around and take the first exit at the next roundabout to get him back on track, but I couldn't understand why the directions were sending him on such an arse about face route. I said "You don't wanna go that way, mate...." and proceeded to give him the quickest directions to where he wanted to go. Off he trundled. A few minutes later I suddenly realised why he was given the directions he had. "SHIT! THE RAILWAY BRIDGE!!"  :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 21 June, 2012, 06:31:22 pm
Yet another driver cutting across the centre of the mini roundabout, turning right, without indicating, and with something in their hand. A cigarette, in this case.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 June, 2012, 07:31:36 pm
Quote from: Wobbly John on 21 June, 2012, 05:16:27 pm
Quote from: clarion on 21 June, 2012, 09:20:53 am

As it is, I've photographed some numpty drivers this morning.  But I didn't go through any red lights :P

...and presumably, you weren't wearing a floral dress and riding a sit-up-and-beg bike?

I will commute however I like! :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 21 June, 2012, 07:46:58 pm
and don't forget your screwdriver with that outfit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 21 June, 2012, 07:55:02 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 21 June, 2012, 03:54:38 pm
Better mapping data and satnavs will soon enough fix this problem.

Well, apparently there are truck-specific Garmin units now available, and the CityNavigator maps apparently contain 'Truck Specific' info that only gets used by these models.   Low bridges may be included, I don't know.

I've only heard about this whilst skim-reading a GPS forum, and have no evidence to back this up, and I CBA to google it...

On, and regarding today's commute: ride home was VERY wet, quite windy, and very slow!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 21 June, 2012, 08:03:10 pm
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mmI867GAhew
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 21 June, 2012, 08:03:38 pm
Saw that on YouTube today.  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 21 June, 2012, 08:41:41 pm
I never quite get the whole "Oh my god, it's all the fault of the SatNav" when people get stuck in narrow lanes, at low bridges, or drive into rivers.  People managed to deal with these issues before we had easy availability of such navigation aids.

Presumably it's because they now think it's sufficient to put an address into a SatNav unit, and leave it to work out the directions, in which case it's the fault of people not using a tool in a sensible manner.  If you hammer in a screw, it's hardly the fault of the hammer.

Anyway, back to other things.

There was a bit of a tailback going around the Streatham one way system this morning, and it turned out to be the police pulling over vehicles and checking them.  Whether they were using an ANPR camera to identify vehicles with no MOT, Tax, or Insurance I'm unsure, but I didn't see one.

They had pulled over a van, car, and motorcycle when I went past (the whole lot probably slowed me down maybe 30 seconds).  The motorcyclists looked somewhat troubled, being on the phone to someone to either produce some documentation presumably, or possibly come and pick him up.  There was a car transporter parked up there, with a couple of cars on it already.

I've never seen them do it there (http://maps.google.co.uk/?ll=51.428909,-0.132984&spn=0.002983,0.006899&t=m&z=17&layer=c&cbll=51.429027,-0.135013&panoid=XnGYzCIyuu7TtgURj1zyvA&cbp=12,359.57,,0,0) before, it's a little narrow, and there's not a vast amount of room, hence the tailbacks.  Previously I've seen them do it on Streatham High Road, where the bus stops are, and outside of rush hours presumably they can "borrow" some of the space normally used by the buses, but I imagine that's more difficult now because of all the building work going on there, and HGVs needing to be able to get through onto the site.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 June, 2012, 08:56:13 pm
Doing it on Balham Hill, too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 21 June, 2012, 09:05:22 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 21 June, 2012, 08:03:10 pm
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mmI867GAhew

Jesus that was scary. I can’t make out what is being said though :(

Just wow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 21 June, 2012, 09:07:02 pm
Quote from: clarion on 21 June, 2012, 08:56:13 pm
Doing it on Balham Hill, too.

Interesting.  It looked a bit like they may have been doing something similar on Embankment, west of Chelsea Bridge, but I don't go that way, and couldn't see exactly what was going on from the bridge.

Maybe there's been some sort of London wide crackdown, although a quick Google around doesn't throw up anything.  Possibly just coincidence.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 21 June, 2012, 09:22:17 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 21 June, 2012, 08:03:10 pm
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mmI867GAhew
She might have been forward, but the light was green, and given that the red/amber allows for the junction to clear, that megabus must have jumped a red.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 21 June, 2012, 10:34:52 pm
Quote from: Kirst on 21 June, 2012, 09:22:17 pm
that megabus must have jumped a red.

No doubt about that. I don’t know of any junctions of that type where lights for waiting traffic begin to change before the traffic across the junction is behind a red.

I wonder does the cyclist realise how close she came to being mincemeat?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 22 June, 2012, 12:01:30 am
There are a few junctions in Leeds where red/amber at one set comes on as the lights turn to amber on the other set. So it's possible to be so close that you can't stop before the white line. Bloody stupid.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 22 June, 2012, 10:03:54 am
I've seen a few police checks going on too. P'raps they're doing a last-ditch attempt to clean up the roads before the Olympics...

I feel cheated, I was expecting no buses today considering how the media have been bleating on about the strike, and there were still a fair few. Presumably the companies that didn’t strike.

(Actually not really all that bothered; bus drivers are ok 9 times out of 10 on my commute)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 22 June, 2012, 10:50:11 am
I've been experimenting lately with variations to my route between Bromley and Southwark and I found a nice new one this morning, via the back streets of Beckenham and Penge. I'd actually planned a different route but where I wanted to go straight on, I noticed a blue cycle route sign pointing left to Crystal Palace, so thought I'd give it a go. And it works really well.

The roads are much quieter than the main route through Beckenham and Penge, and there are far fewer traffic lights too, so it's actually faster than the A-road. It brings you out in Sydenham (curable, I believe) and from there I took the lovely little climb of Kirkdale - which I didn't get up as quickly as I might have done if there hadn't been a sodding coach having trouble negotiating all the parked cars.  ::-)

After that, I went down through Dulwich Village and rejoined my more usual route through Denmark Hill and Camberwell to E&C on the main road. I was slightly earlier than usual and traffic in Dulwich was at its peak. Might have been better off sticking to Lordship Lane and skirting round Dulwich.

I've plotted it in bikeroutetoaster, should anyone be interested:
http://bikeroutetoaster.com/Course.aspx?course=418078

Would be nice to find a route that's as quiet as that first bit all the way...

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 22 June, 2012, 12:18:31 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 22 June, 2012, 10:50:11 am
...

Would be nice to find a route that's as quiet as that first bit all the way...

d.

It's probably not fast enough for you, but there's plenty of sections of LCN 23 that parallel the main roads along your route, for instance I avoid Camberwell and Walworth Road most of the time by carrying on along Calton Avenue from Dulwich Village, through the James Allen and St Olave's sports fields and up over the top of Dog Kennel Hill and then down Camberwell Grove. Given the horrid traffic snarls and lights, it seems to be as quick to me (but I'm not a furious pedaller) and you don't have chew through the bus fumes.

Mind you, my meandering routes between Holborn Circus and Beckenham have spanned Kingston to Erith, so I don't have much of a fixed route per se.

Last night's wind and rain encouraged me to seek my perceived quickest route up Fountain Drive to the heights of Crystal Palace, which given the solid headwind I encountered, started to seem like a less good idea, though wasn't as bad it as it seemed, given some exploration of the land of lower gears. It was more precarious coming down Anerley Hill. The wind gusts were threatening even my lead tubed bike's stability. Of course, despite the wobbles, a few drivers still insisted on passing with a millimetre of clearance.

(Actually, I'm quite knackered today, but that might have been spending the hours between midnight and 3am ish trying to rescue an injured fox from the back garden, and killing approximately 1,000,000 crusading slugs intent on my veg.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 22 June, 2012, 01:05:33 pm
Quote from: ian on 22 June, 2012, 12:18:31 pm
It's probably not fast enough for you, but there's plenty of sections of LCN 23 that parallel the main roads along your route, for instance I avoid Camberwell and Walworth Road most of the time by carrying on along Calton Avenue from Dulwich Village, through the James Allen and St Olave's sports fields and up over the top of Dog Kennel Hill and then down Camberwell Grove.

That looks like a really interesting possibility - thanks! Probably plenty fast enough, tbh - like you say, with all the lights and traffic on the main road, it probably makes no difference to the overall journey time even if you have to ride a bit slower. And it would definitely be good to have a few alternative routes to choose between based on whether I'm taking it easy (like I did this morning) or in full Lycra-clad Urban Road Warrior mode.

Quote
Last night's wind and rain encouraged me to seek my perceived quickest route up Fountain Drive to the heights of Crystal Palace, which given the solid headwind I encountered, started to seem like a less good idea, though wasn't as bad it as it seemed, given some exploration of the land of lower gears.

I wish I'd gone via Fountain Drive last night. The evil wind made me seek a flatter route, but it was so strong that I was slow enough that I knew I would never make my train, so I took my time and did a bit of exploring of the back streets of Honor Oak. Didn't think much of that route tbh. Ended up getting spat out on that nasty gyratory bit on Southend Lane by the big Sainsbury's.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 22 June, 2012, 01:08:53 pm
Very wet this morning, all the drains on Park road were like fountains, meaning I rode a very primary position, made lots of friends   ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Datameister on 22 June, 2012, 01:38:04 pm
Quote from: Butterfly on 21 June, 2012, 01:16:23 pm
[Time to ban satnav in lorries?

I think not. It always comes down to the nut holding the wheel.

Weekly there seem to be more and more instances of drivers on the Motorway executing the "3 lane exit" technique where they cross all three lanes of traffic (usually without checking for other traffic judging by the evasive action of everyone else) from fast lane to slip road. I can only think that this is due them blindly following instructions when the satnav goes "Take the exit".

I can't wait until neural networks are installed into SatNavs, at which point the SatNav will soon learn to say "Oh, its you again! Take the bus!"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 22 June, 2012, 01:52:34 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 22 June, 2012, 12:01:30 am
There are a few junctions in Leeds where red/amber at one set comes on as the lights turn to amber on the other set. So it's possible to be so close that you can't stop before the white line. Bloody stupid.

Really? That’s bonkers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 22 June, 2012, 02:13:08 pm
With the Bus strike today, I saw relatively few buses on my commute.  There was a big union presence by the bus garage near Thornton Heath Pond, and between Croydon and Streatham I only saw a single bus, when I'd probably see upwards of a dozen.

Similarly where I cross from Walpole Street to Anderson Street, over The Kings Road, I almost invariably meet several buses, but there were none to be seen today.

The traffic wasn't significantly worse than usual.  Around Thornton Heath Pond there was some congestion, but that was probably the only point on the entire journey.  The lack of buses seemed to make it overall an easier trip, not that I think that would be the case if buses routinely didn't exist along my route.  I'm assuming a lot of people decided not to go into work, and started the weekend early.

There were quite a lot of people at the bus stops, but given the small number of buses I saw, I suspect they had a long wait.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 22 June, 2012, 04:24:21 pm
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 22 June, 2012, 01:52:34 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 22 June, 2012, 12:01:30 am
There are a few junctions in Leeds where red/amber at one set comes on as the lights turn to amber on the other set. So it's possible to be so close that you can't stop before the white line. Bloody stupid.

Really? That’s bonkers.

Yup. I hang back a bit when the lights change because there are always some amber gamblers. A few weeks ago, I hesitate, the car alongside didn't and t-boned an amber gambler.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 22 June, 2012, 06:09:48 pm
Strewth, thats windy, had to deploy the little ring, not often that happens
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 22 June, 2012, 07:53:28 pm
encountered some scumbags on my way to childcare bombing up his hot hatch up gordon road in south woodford while I was coasting down the same road. and to compensate for the small size of his genitals he did manage to give me a good scare by continuing his acceleration, forming the words f*** u with his lips and swerving quite suddenly towards me.
I guess now I know who owns the road.

edit. I meant to write that I made a sign with my hand to ask him to slow down a bit, which prompted his angry reaction.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 22 June, 2012, 09:20:21 pm
That's horrible. It's rare, but when you come across that sort of disregard, it does give you the willies.

Glad you're okay.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dora on 22 June, 2012, 10:53:52 pm
Well, it was chucking it down this morning, so I was persuaded (read TOLD) to accept a lift. One car broke down, the other ran out of fuel, so I was still late for work. It persisted it down all day so that by the time home time arrived, there were no trains running, due to flooding.  At the bus station, I discovered the bus from work to home had been withdrawn months ago, so I make up another route involving two busses and a long walk. £9.20 and three hours later I'm finally home and I am NEVER leaving my bike at home again!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 23 June, 2012, 06:32:38 am
Quote from: citoyen on 22 June, 2012, 10:50:11 am
Would be nice to find a route that's as quiet as that first bit all the way...

d.

Really quiet and probably way too slow would be to head into Beckenham Place Park and ride the road along the top, cross Southend Lane into Dunfield Rd along Brookehowse Rd and Fordmill into Canadian Ave under Catford Bridge up through Ladywell Fields past Crofton School up Ewhurst Rd into Sevenoaks Rd, onto Brockley Rise (strictly speaking it's called Stondon Park at that point) from which you can access the cycle route (I think it's 22)  that goes over the railway into Nunhead and down to Peckham Rye and Rye Lane.  From there  the Surrey Canal Path (or if you don't fancy going that slow due to lots of pedestrians
use Sumner Rd instead onto Trafalgar then through Burgess Park when it reopens, anyway, out onto Albany Rd up Thurlow St and past the old Heygate (soon to crumble to dust) and bobs your uncle.
If I get a minute I might try and plot and post the route if you are interested.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 23 June, 2012, 04:22:33 pm
Quote from: jane on 23 June, 2012, 06:32:38 am
Really quiet and probably way too slow would be to head into Beckenham Place Park and ride the road along the top, cross Southend Lane into Dunfield Rd along Brookehowse Rd and Fordmill into Canadian Ave under Catford Bridge...

Funnily enough, that's exactly the route I had originally planned until I was distracted by the blue cycle route signs. Hadn't really planned anything after that point, but the rest of your route sounds interesting. Might give it a go on Monday.  :thumbsup:

Quote
If I get a minute I might try and plot and post the route if you are interested.

Thanks. I think I can work it out from your description - if not, I'll get back to you...

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ianrauk on 23 June, 2012, 08:28:47 pm

Quote from: citoyen on 22 June, 2012, 10:50:11 am
I've been experimenting lately with variations to my route between Bromley and Southwark and I found a nice new one this morning, via the back streets of Beckenham and Penge. I'd actually planned a different route but where I wanted to go straight on, I noticed a blue cycle route sign pointing left to Crystal Palace, so thought I'd give it a go. And it works really well.

The roads are much quieter than the main route through Beckenham and Penge, and there are far fewer traffic lights too, so it's actually faster than the A-road. It brings you out in Sydenham (curable, I believe) and from there I took the lovely little climb of Kirkdale - which I didn't get up as quickly as I might have done if there hadn't been a sodding coach having trouble negotiating all the parked cars.  ::-)

After that, I went down through Dulwich Village and rejoined my more usual route through Denmark Hill and Camberwell to E&C on the main road. I was slightly earlier than usual and traffic in Dulwich was at its peak. Might have been better off sticking to Lordship Lane and skirting round Dulwich.

I've plotted it in bikeroutetoaster, should anyone be interested:
http://bikeroutetoaster.com/Course.aspx?course=418078

Would be nice to find a route that's as quiet as that first bit all the way...

d.

Quick suggestion.
Coming out of Bromley South Station, instead of heading down and doing that right waiting at those lights I would cross the road at the Station, up and first left into Ravensbourne Road, at the bottom is an alleyway (has a cyclists dismount sign, but hey) on the left , through there which comes out at Ridley Road, then left at queens mead and onto and across the Shortlands Station junction to join your normal route. Probs save a few seconds as not having to negotiate so many lights/right turn at junctions.less traffic etc.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 23 June, 2012, 10:27:10 pm
You know, I thought I'd tried pretty much every possible permutation for the leaving of Bromley, but I don't think I've tried that one. Nice one, thanks!

I've done Ethelbert Rd and through the park, past the duck pond, but even though it is designated as shared use, the path is far too narrow to be practical for cycling. I once had a run-in with a dog walker there - I had slowed right down behind him, patiently waiting for a suitable opportunity to pass, then he turned round and started having a go at me, quite aggressively.

Sometimes, I'd rather mix with lorries than pedestrians.  ::-)

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 24 June, 2012, 02:58:14 am
Side-swiped by a truck this morning at Elephant and Castle. Deliberately. The drivers response to my shout of 'No!' as I slid along the side of the truck was to pull in more sharply - the mark of an utter arsehole. Stayed upright and quite calm (for a while) which is more than the ranting imbecile driver of the truck managed. Maybe it brought him closer to an aneurysm.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 24 June, 2012, 08:33:04 am
Quote from: benborp on 24 June, 2012, 02:58:14 am
Side-swiped by a truck this morning at Elephant and Castle. Deliberately. The drivers response to my shout of 'No!' as I slid along the side of the truck was to pull in more sharply - the mark of an utter arsehole. Stayed upright and quite calm (for a while) which is more than the ranting imbecile driver of the truck managed. Maybe it brought him closer to an aneurysm.

Yikes Ben! That was not a good experience, just seen it on YouTube. What a stupid driver!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 24 June, 2012, 12:50:53 pm
Quote from: ianrauk on 23 June, 2012, 08:28:47 pm
...
Quick suggestion.
Coming out of Bromley South Station, instead of heading down and doing that right waiting at those lights I would cross the road at the Station, up and first left into Ravensbourne Road, at the bottom is an alleyway (has a cyclists dismount sign, but hey) on the left , through there which comes out at Ridley Road, then left at queens mead and onto and across the Shortlands Station junction to join your normal route. Probs save a few seconds as not having to negotiate so many lights/right turn at junctions.less traffic etc.

You can also continue across the junction by Shortland's station across onto Ravensbourne Avenue but instead of turning up Downs Hill continue into Beckenham Place Park, where there is a shared route. You can either turn left at the far end of the path and follow the edge of the park (I'm not sure if this is supposed to be shared or not) and keep on the path until you emerge on Beckenham Hill Road opposite Beckenham Hill station. Alternatively, you can turn right at the end of the shared path and exit the park onto Old Bromley Road, turn left and then right onto Brangbourne Road (I think there's a cycle route sign for Catford). That also leads to Beckenham Hill Road. Cross this and slip down by the station and pick up the route suggested by Jane. Alternatively, you can go down Southend Lane, marvelling at the absurd traffic calming measures, and pick up the Waterlink Way (just before the horrid snarl of roads around Sainsbury's) heading north towards Greenwich. You can again branch off in Ladywell Fields park as suggested, and follow that up over Brockley Rise, picking up LCN 22 through Nunhead and down past Peckham Rye into the DRP.

One of the marvellous things about cycling is that you can pick a route to go with your mood and just roll with it (I have no idea how people who commute by car or train retain their sanity). Sometimes I'll take the main roads, other times I'll just meander through parks and side streets.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 24 June, 2012, 11:31:05 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 23 June, 2012, 10:27:10 pm
Sometimes, I'd rather mix with lorries than pedestrians.  ::-)

On the other hand, in light of benborp's experience...

Quote from: ian on 24 June, 2012, 12:50:53 pm
One of the marvellous things about cycling is that you can pick a route to go with your mood and just roll with it

This is exactly my thinking in experimenting with different routes lately. Just freshens it up a bit. Some days I like to pelt up the main road, other days I just want a quiet, gentle ride...

Isn't cycling brilliant? Just a shame about the sods in trucks trying to spoil it for us. Glad you came out of your encounter unscathed, benborp.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 25 June, 2012, 08:01:41 am
One of those beautiful mornings where its great just to have the wheels rolling underneath you. It all came so easy today for an average of 18.9mph, no effort at all. Amazing what having your first day off the bike for several weeks can do.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 25 June, 2012, 08:28:11 am
There is no other way to describe this mornings commute other than shitty!!  I only have to go 2 miles and was passed fair too closely about a dozen times and beeped at at least 4.  Arrived at work physically shaking, and me an experienced commuter and all.

Rode in primary which just seemed to make the drivers more aggressive.

:-(

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 25 June, 2012, 09:08:43 am
Sorry to hear that dave, it must be that karma thing, balancing stuff out; my ride today was as good as good can be.  Not that there was a total absence of numptyness, but the overall quotient was low, the sun was out and all was well with the world.  (well, except for the small issue I couldn't get an earworm out my head - "Girlfriend in a coma"....wtf ???)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 June, 2012, 09:20:52 am
Sorry to hear you had a bad one today, Dave.  I was enjoying the corollary of the cars passing closer in the wet.  Nice sunny commute without being blown about all over the place.  Just right.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: urban_biker on 25 June, 2012, 09:23:19 am
Quote from: clarion on 25 June, 2012, 09:20:52 am
Nice cunny commute without being blown about all over the place.  Just right.

Sounds like fun in a Samuel Pepys kids kind of way.  :D

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 25 June, 2012, 09:26:00 am
Nice day here, commute spoiled by a) too many insects trying to commit suicide on my face and b) broken Heineken bottle strewn across the Innocent. On the other hand, I overtook a bloke on a recumbent on the downhill after the tunnel, despite being heavily panniered and despite not even trying!  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 June, 2012, 09:27:50 am
Quote from: urban_biker on 25 June, 2012, 09:23:19 am
Quote from: clarion on 25 June, 2012, 09:20:52 am
Nice cunny commute without being blown about all over the place.  Just right.

Sounds like fun in a Samuel Pepys kids of way.  :D

Freud, more like. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: urban_biker on 25 June, 2012, 09:56:06 am
Quote from: clarion on 25 June, 2012, 09:27:50 am
Quote from: urban_biker on 25 June, 2012, 09:23:19 am
Quote from: clarion on 25 June, 2012, 09:20:52 am
Nice cunny commute without being blown about all over the place.  Just right.

Sounds like fun in a Samuel Pepys kids of way.  :D

Freud, more like. ;D


Yes- I've discovered i can't type either  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 25 June, 2012, 10:11:05 am
Quite a few idiots on the road this morning.  OTOH, the drivers were mostly OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 25 June, 2012, 10:13:15 am
Quote from: Kirst on 25 June, 2012, 09:26:00 am
Nice day here, commute spoiled by a) too many insects trying to commit suicide on my face and b) broken Heineken bottle strewn across the Innocent. On the other hand, I overtook a bloke on a recumbent on the downhill after the tunnel, despite being heavily panniered and despite not even trying!  ;D

You sure he wasn't just lying in the road?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 25 June, 2012, 12:55:39 pm
Cheekypants.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 25 June, 2012, 03:07:11 pm
yours,his or Peter's?
 :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 June, 2012, 11:01:43 pm
I had a lovely commute home.  I went down Embankment, making 32 passes in aggregate (3 people passed me; I did 35 overtakes) between Lambeth and Battersea Bridge.  Then I pressed on to Richmond Park, chased a bike down to look at the seatstay detail, then went over Spankers Hill.

I was making good time, but I spotted a woman standing beside the road inspecting her tyre.  This very nice German lady had a slo puncture, but didn't have far to go, so I used my pump to refill the tyre to get her home.  She thanked me a lot, then got on her way.  I paused as I refixed my pump to the bike, then set off and repassed her and checked she was OK before I left her.  Gave me a warm feeling on a lovely evening.

I trundled onward, and kept a good time, passing cyclists all the way home.  Best scalp was a chap on a racy Pearson in Sutton.  I got up behind him, and he attacked a rise, but didn't shake me.  I waited till we were most of the way down the other side, so I knew I had the measure of him, then zoomed past and away.  He tried to respond, but didn't have anything.  I thought he'd catch me as I turned up the next rise, but he didn't. :)

I wish all commutes could be like that.
Title: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 26 June, 2012, 08:21:04 am
I lost a KOM on Strava the other day. Thought I'd try to win it back this morning and was going well but halfway up the steep section, my chain slipped, my right foot unclipped and I only narrowly avoided ending up in a hedge. Bollocks.

I put my nice bike back together at the weekend and I think the rear indexing needs a bit of fettling. Although it's possible that it's misbehaving because the chain and cassette are quite worn.

The new front shifter works like a dream though - thanks, Sgt Pluck!

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 26 June, 2012, 09:06:07 am
Passed aftermath of what looked like a very ugly accident last night. Bike by side of road, front wheel bent into a paperclip. Police cars blocking off junction. Ambulance sat there, no lights on, crew outside talking to the police.

Haven't found mention of it in the papers yet. Given the stationary ambulance, I suspect it was a fatality. Can't see why the police would have blocked a major junction at rush hour for anything else and if the casualty wasn't dead, surely the ambulance would be on the way to hospital.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 26 June, 2012, 09:48:59 am
Sometimes those things turn out to look much worse than they are. You might have found that the "casualty was walking wounded and waiting for a lift home, or simply that everyone is sitting around taking statements before the ambulance heads off at low speed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 26 June, 2012, 10:08:17 am
Crossed fingers that was the case. The police cars blocking the road (it's a very major junction) made me think otherwise.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 26 June, 2012, 07:55:45 pm
Came so close to being T-boned onna roundabout tonight it was incredible, missed the rear wheel by about 3 inches. The driver apologised and was obviously contrite, left him stopped dead in the road and visibly shaking.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 27 June, 2012, 06:09:45 am
Nice commute back to hotel around lake union and back up the hill to the space needle. Nice road surfaces and working trams, patient drivers on the whole. Seattle vs Edinburgh. Compare and contrast.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 27 June, 2012, 08:57:52 am
As it's probably my last commute before I move house I took the Pugsley for a change, a little slower than usual but with singlespeed on 32X20 and 4" tyres I wasn't expecting it to be fast ;) although I did overtake a couple of people.

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8156/7453225614_d255d395a3_b.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/paul_fulford/7453225614/)
Pugsley goes sightseeing (http://www.flickr.com/photos/paul_fulford/7453225614/) by paulfulford (http://www.flickr.com/people/paul_fulford/), on Flickr
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 27 June, 2012, 09:54:34 am
One dozy dog, one dozy owner, one pavement cyclist carrying a pair of axillary crutches, and one V-sign to a driver trying to beep me to move left into the door zone.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 27 June, 2012, 10:40:21 am
Tried a new route from home to Faversham this morning, which was really lovely - a bit more varied terrain than my usual route and less traffic (except for a short stretch on the A2 at the end), plus a few extra miles as an added bonus (18km instead of 12km).

I meant to take it easy to give my tired legs a rest* - plus there was a very noticeable headwind - but I can't help myself at the moment: I averaged just shy of 30km/h.  :facepalm:  ;D

d.

*I did a total of 81km over my four commute rides yesterday, pushing quite hard on all of them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 27 June, 2012, 10:44:07 am
Quote from: citoyen on 27 June, 2012, 10:40:21 am
Tried a new route from home to Faversham this morning, which was really lovely - a bit more varied terrain than my usual route and less traffic (except for a short stretch on the A2 at the end), plus a few extra miles as an added bonus (18km instead of 12km).

Which way did you go?
We might be riding down again on Saturday and nice route suggestions are always welcome. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 27 June, 2012, 11:11:53 am
Quote from: Butterfly on 27 June, 2012, 10:44:07 am
Which way did you go?
We might be riding down again on Saturday and nice route suggestions are always welcome. :)

I went a bit inland via Selling. No hills to speak of but a bit more rolling than the coastal route. Will you be riding all the way from London? I can certainly give you some pointers on nice roads round my end of the route.

Here's a route, roughly based on my ride this morning, that takes you from Faversham to Whitstable station - not too lumpy but not so flat as to be boring, and mostly on quiet roads (plus a bit of light offroad trail at the end):
http://bikeroutetoaster.com/Course.aspx?course=420751

Annoyingly, I'm going to miss you being in Whitstable again - I've got to drive a van down to Brighton on Saturday to pick up some furniture and probably won't be back until late. Anyone would think I was trying to avoid you. ;)

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 27 June, 2012, 12:24:23 pm
I saw a classic numpty bike on bike accident on Cedars Road last night.
Two cyclists set off from the lights, quite close to each other and then collided on the clyce path when one slowed down as the grade increased.
I'd seen it was going to happen and was easily able to ride around them.

Nothing I could do to help, since I had no first aid kit, they weren't going to need witnesses and Sainsbury's at the corner would have someone able to patch up any scrapes.

I really don't like that junction. It's always blocked by cars encroaching into the ASL, there's a stupid bus stop on the left for a bus which turns right (across 2 lanes of traffic) and frequent spills of gravel from the concrete works down the road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 27 June, 2012, 12:25:57 pm
Prat using our road as a rat run decided to "confront me" after I commented "that was sensible" when he tried to turn left on me. I held my lane, so he overtook and got out of the car. Sadly, he wasn't very brave once he was out of the car, and his top lip got all wobbly. Bless. However, despite offering to meet him when he'd calmed down, he got all brave as I was cycling off and shouted "don't die, eh?" after me.

4 junctions later (Coton roundabout for Cambridge locals), there was one of those ambulance cars at the side of the road. Cyclist on his back, in a neck brace. A micra was on the side of the road with a cyclist shape imprinted in it's smashed windscreen. I asked if there was anything I could do - like take the bike back to the guys house. Paramedic said it was all under control and they'd get the bike in the ambulance, but thanked me for stopping. Couldn't tell how the cyclist was doing - he seemed to be conscious. Hard to tell what happened, but looked like the Micras smidsy'd him when joining the r/bout. Hope the young chap is alright.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Karla on 27 June, 2012, 12:32:20 pm
That sounds like an eventful commute, Dr M.  I hope you can still concentrate after that start to the day?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 27 June, 2012, 01:54:06 pm
Had a bit of a blub after seeing the young chap on the deck, but I'm soft like that. Struggled a bit to be productive today, too. However, I'm really lucky where I ride, as that's the first RTA I've seen in well over a year.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 27 June, 2012, 01:56:03 pm
Overtaken by a pickup truck on Coldhams Lane, 40 limit. Probably 60-70mph.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 28 June, 2012, 09:53:33 am
Cor, that was a struggle!

I'm still not well, but need to do some end-of-financial-year-type-stuff.  So, with a raging temprerature and a chest infection, I set off into a visibly polluted Great Wen.

Because of gear cable issues, I couldn't use my tourer, so rejigged my fixed slightly and rode that.

When I came to the first difficult roundabout, I dismounted and crossed as a ped rather than duel with mad drivers.  I took this as a signal that I should not be attempting Stockwell, Oval or Elephant & Castle, all of which feel like rehearsals for Ben Hur.  So, at Clapham Common, I turned off and took the back way through. 

I wasn't slow, I was surprised to find, but did just want to collapse in a heap when I got to work, utterly sweaty with the heat, the fever, and the effort.

I did enjoy the ride, I suppose, but I worked for the privilege.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JJ on 28 June, 2012, 10:05:17 am
Quote from: DrMekon on 27 June, 2012, 12:25:57 pm
Coton roundabout for Cambridge locals

No idea if it's to blame this time, but that roundabout is a classic example of how if is safer on the road going fast than on the cycle path trying to cross the exit roads.

Incidentally and OT, one of Cambridge tri's quickest Ironmen has just landed the job of cycle paramedic in town.  That should cut response times.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 28 June, 2012, 10:36:19 am
Shaking down the long distance bike for the Dun Run over the next couple of days. Boy oh Boy is it fast compared to the regular hack. Over 50kph across Tooting Bec with ease, 46kph down Queenstown Road and easily holding 32-35kph everywhere else.

I guess there are advantages t pushing hard on heavy slow bikes the rest rest of the year round.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: seraphina on 28 June, 2012, 10:47:43 am
Quote from: JJ on 28 June, 2012, 10:05:17 am
Quote from: DrMekon on 27 June, 2012, 12:25:57 pm
Coton roundabout for Cambridge locals

No idea if it's to blame this time, but that roundabout is a classic example of how if is safer on the road going fast than on the cycle path trying to cross the exit roads.

Incidentally and OT, one of Cambridge tri's quickest Ironmen has just landed the job of cycle paramedic in town.  That should cut response times.

DrMekon - hope you are OK.

JJ - I totally agree. In particular the M11/A10 roundabout in Trumpington - if you're on the cycle route you have to cross the M11 entry slip road, which is just as cars are speeding up to motorway speeds as they leave the roundabout.

As an aside, the new cycle routing on the road from Trumpington Park and Ride through to Trumpington High St. is diabolical - no cycle priority, needless crossing of roads, and lots of kerbs. The guys who came up with that should be asked to justify their actions.

My commute was okay - legs fine but cardio system was showing the effects of the long weekend rides.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 28 June, 2012, 12:07:26 pm
Very muggy today, made it hard work really. Could do with a damn good thunderstorm before hometime, especially since all the humidity alarms in the lab are going off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 28 June, 2012, 12:26:35 pm
Back on the commute this morning after 2weeks off the bike with knackered knees :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 28 June, 2012, 12:39:47 pm
Quote from: fungus on 28 June, 2012, 12:26:35 pm
Back on the commute this morning after 2weeks off the bike with knackered knees :)

How are the knees today?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 28 June, 2012, 02:03:32 pm
For the first time today, I did the Grand Union outwards. Made for an interesting ride, a little salmon-like, but the lack of traffic lights more than compensates for the extra distance and lower speed. Euston/Marlybone Road is probably one to avoid next time, even at 07:00, at that time of day you don't need lungfulls of pollution. Quite a fast road, though.

Oh, and while I'm on the subject of speed, a little message to the fuckheads using the canal path as a TT, don't, just don't, it's not pretty and it's not clever. And a special message to the numbnut who actually did ring his bell before entering the blind bridge tunnel. You heard my bell first, you could just about predict that I would be in the middle of the path, it would have been much cleverer to slow down as well. That I had and could mange to stop with my barend touching the wall was why you were able to go past without knocking me, or diving into the canal. Saying "sorry" as you passed demonstrates that you knew you were doing a RONG, but can we have any confidence you will do better next time?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 28 June, 2012, 02:50:15 pm
I noticed earlier this week, that there's a Ghost Bike (http://ghostbikes.org/) here (https://maps.google.co.uk/maps?hl=en&ll=51.452095,-0.142146&spn=0.001195,0.00284&t=m&z=19&layer=c&cbll=51.452206,-0.142174&panoid=OJlSPiCeJJaBEnjJIcu7zg&cbp=12,103.41,,1,8.37) now (on Poynders Road).  I think it must have appeared either early this week, or at the weekend, although I can't be certain, because I tend to keep my eyes focused on the road and vehicles, especially given the reason for that Ghost Bike, which was about twelve months ago.

There used to be one on these railings (https://maps.google.co.uk/maps?hl=en&ll=51.445288,-0.124454&spn=0.008666,0.045447&t=m&z=15&layer=c&cbll=51.44528,-0.124446&panoid=p76tljwQYIVxXwfk0LEMRA&cbp=11,329.87,,1,10.62), which I still go past occasionally, and which was the result of an incident that occurred when I lived a couple of hundred feet from that junction.  The new one on Poynders Road is the first one on my commute, although I know of another location (https://maps.google.co.uk/maps?hl=en&ll=51.427658,-0.133606&spn=0.001084,0.005681&t=m&z=18&layer=c&cbll=51.427657,-0.133604&panoid=zHW0vaEuuVsne4JOYOzfOw&cbp=11,318.13,,0,13.6) (Mitcham Lane / Ambleside Avenue) which could have one, and where the incident was a few weeks before I started using that route regularly on my commute.

I don't need the Ghost Bikes there to remind me of their basis, but it does give me a shiver if I think too much about them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 28 June, 2012, 03:19:16 pm
Quote from: TimO on 28 June, 2012, 02:50:15 pm

I don't need the Ghost Bikes there to remind me of their basis, but it does give me a shiver if I think too much about them.

Would that was the case for so many others: I pass all too many ghost bikes (6?) on my route, only yesterday my toes curled as another rider tried their best to join Ceilidh Cairn right next to hers. (There's some roadworks in vicinity that provide a chicane and narrowing, there is no reason at all to try to fit through at the same time as an HGV)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 28 June, 2012, 03:22:26 pm
Lots of fairweather cyclists out this morning with not an ounce of road sense between them. The most spectacular was the idiot who filtered through the tiniest of gaps between a bus going one way and a lorry coming the other on Lambeth Road, then jumped the red lights at E&C and proceeded to weave his way through three lanes of fast moving traffic...

Congratulations, mate, on getting through that alive, though I'd say it was more through luck than judgment. Carry on doing that regularly and your luck will run out one day.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 28 June, 2012, 04:14:04 pm
Quote from: TimO on 28 June, 2012, 02:50:15 pm
I don't need the Ghost Bikes there to remind me of their basis, but it does give me a shiver if I think too much about them.

There's one up in King[']s Heath which, being colorimetrically challenged, I initially mistook for a PINK child's bike locked to a lamp post.

On closer examination, it turned out to be a white-painted BMXish bike, with some flowers zip-tied to the post.  A local news article says it is for a little girl who was hit by a lorry while riding her bike across a pedestrian crossing.   :(
Title: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 28 June, 2012, 08:04:06 pm
Shitty post-work ride to Bromley tonight. Should have been lovely in the glorious sunshine but wasn't due to heavy traffic and a bastard headwind.

Then on Lordship Lane I arrived on the scene of an accident that must have only just happened. Classic SmidsySmidgaf driver turning left out of side road hadn't seen the cyclist until he'd rammed into the back of her.

I stopped to offer assistance but there were already two other cyclists on the scene. One had got as far as dialling 999 but before he'd even got through, an ambulance arrived - that's what I call service! And then a police car arrived a couple of minutes later.

Luckily, the cyclist seemed more shaken than injured. Her rear wheel was a write-off though.

I didn't want to get involved but the driver seemed very keen to get his excuses in for the benefit of anyone who'd listen so I tried to put him right on a few points of fact. Eg, the cyclist didn't just "appear from nowhere", she was in the main road, ffs.

I very quickly started to lose my temper with him. I don't know if he was just dissembling or if he genuinely couldn't understand how it could possibly have been his fault. And frankly I don't know which of those would be worse.

I suggested, quite forcibly, that perhaps he might do better to show some sympathy for his victim rather than make excuses, to which he started going on about his daughter being in the car and being upset. Well, maybe you should drive a bit more carefully then, you muppet.

Un-flipping-believable.

When the police showed up, I pointed out to the officer who were the main protagonists in the piece then continued on my way. I didn't see the accident so assumed I wasn't required to give any statements or anything like that, and I was only likely to start a fight if I stuck around, so I thought I'd be better off leaving it to the professionals to deal with.   

And then to cap it all, the climb of Sydenham Hill seems to have done something bad to my knee.

If the cyclist is a yacfer, sorry I didn't help matters by losing my temper, hope you're ok, and please pm me if you do need any witness statements or whatever.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 28 June, 2012, 08:07:12 pm
It happens.  Incidents are always places of frayed tempers, and idiocy of that standard is very annoying.

My commute was just slow because of headwind, so I surrendered to it and rode a meandering, partially off-road, route.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 28 June, 2012, 08:23:10 pm
Sorry you had such an unpleasant experience, citoyen. I have been involved in two collisions over 40 years where I needed hospital treatment and one where I was a witness cycling by, and, if, I'm honest, in those moments immediately after the collision, the one where I was the witness was the most confusing and distressing.  Being the victim, provided, you  are not so badly injured you are incapacitated, the adrenalin powering through simplifies everything.  I just wanted to go home, I don't remember getting upset or feeling pain ( not at the time, anyway, later tons of it!).  But the accident I witnessed did distress me, I wasn't sure what to do for the best, felt confused, worried,  felt I should have remembered the car number, but couldn't ( it wad a hit and run) and very, very, angry with the car driver.  Just sat and talked about rubbish to the guy till the ambulance  came.  Horrible and still feel bad about it for some reason, when I think of it.  But my own collisions, once I was healed up, ( and that was a pain, if I'm honest) just felt a great sense of relief ( as both could have ended worse) and happy to be back on the road.  I can quite understand why you got arsey with the driver, I would probably have done the same if he had bothered to
hang around. 
You stopped. You showed you cared about another person in trouble.  And if it was necessary, you would have done anything you were asked, I am certain. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 28 June, 2012, 08:24:03 pm
When I got knocked off by a car a year or so back (he pulled out from between parked traffic right into me) all he could keep telling the police officer was "I was indicating." Like that made it all fine to simply drive into me and send me sprawling over his bonnet and into the road.

Ironically, as I lay on the ground (fortunately more shaken than injured) I had the opportunity to watch him turn on his indicators and then get out to check that he hadn't killed me. Getting your excuse in place is evidently more important than checking someone is OK.

I don't blame you for getting angry, Citoyen, it's a bit shitty.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 28 June, 2012, 08:26:06 pm
Headwind? Can't say I noticed that

(actually I did, as I've taken to doing a bit of a loop at the end of the journey....)

Oh, and Spindrift, if you are reading this, here's a difference that has taken place over the last few years. You know that bit of wiggly bike lane in Leytonstone High Road coming  up to the Green Man? Cars mostly stay out of it now. (They used to drive a straight line most of the time)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 28 June, 2012, 08:53:51 pm
Nothing like a screaming row with a van driver in the middle of the street to set you up for the day  :facepalm: :-[ He was a pissweasel of the highest order but still not proud to have sunk to his level.

And a rather stiff headwind home but didn't take much longer than usual. It made my knee hurt though. Are there ligaments across the front of the kneecap or just behind it?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 28 June, 2012, 09:08:39 pm
Quote from: Ham on 28 June, 2012, 08:26:06 pm
Headwind? Can't say I noticed that

(actually I did, as I've taken to doing a bit of a loop at the end of the journey....)

Oh, and Spindrift, if you are reading this, here's a difference that has taken place over the last few years. You know that bit of wiggly bike lane in Leytonstone High Road coming  up to the Green Man? Cars mostly stay out of it now. (They used to drive a straight line most of the time)

Going down you mean? So you're cycling south? That lane gave me Teh Feer , you'd either cycle in the door zone and risk losing a testicle or further out and get angrily bibbed.

They do say The Red Lion is a catalyst for gentrification..


Funnily enough a man was killed near there when someone in a passing car threw a cabbage at him.
 
Title: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 28 June, 2012, 10:14:50 pm
I'm pleased to report that my evening ended on a much more positive note...

I checked mycyclinglogs while on the train and discovered I was on 973km for the month. Now, it just so happens that Sittingbourne to home is 27km along quiet country lanes - the perfect antidote to the mean streets of London - so I decided to get off there and ride the rest of the way. Took the inland detour which goes via the highest point locally and gives great views but unfortunately was just a couple of minutes too late to watch the sun disappearing over the horizon. Lovely ride though, great way to clear the head after the earlier business.

And I'm now on 1001km for the month. :thumbsup:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 28 June, 2012, 10:20:46 pm
Saw a near 3-way collision between cyclists because a cyclist rode through the red light I was stopped at and veered left onto the pavement, just as two cyclists were approaching each other in opposite directions on the same (shared use) pavement.
Title: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 28 June, 2012, 10:21:32 pm
Quote from: ian on 28 June, 2012, 08:24:03 pm
Getting your excuse in place is evidently more important than checking someone is OK.

It's insane, isn't it.

He made a mistake - it happens. We're all only human.

But I wish he could have just MTFU and accepted that it was his mistake.

It was the mealy-mouthed self justification that really pissed me off.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 28 June, 2012, 10:36:42 pm
I made a mistake near Clapham Common.  I was moving from the cycle path onto a pelican crossing where I was turning right along the road.  The drop from the pavement was ridiculously steep, and the traffic there is stupidly fast.  However, it was clear.  A woman was pushing a buggy onto the middle of the crossing, and so I, having observed it was clear left, committed to go right.

Unfortunately, the woman had dropped a cloth on the road, and turned suddenly to her right to pick it up.  My attention rapidly moved from the distant to what was right in front of my wheel, and I managed an emergency stop.  Just.

We both got off the road and pressed the button to wait for the traffic to stop.  We'd both learned something. :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 28 June, 2012, 10:47:29 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 28 June, 2012, 09:08:39 pm
Quote from: Ham on 28 June, 2012, 08:26:06 pm
Headwind? Can't say I noticed that

(actually I did, as I've taken to doing a bit of a loop at the end of the journey....)

Oh, and Spindrift, if you are reading this, here's a difference that has taken place over the last few years. You know that bit of wiggly bike lane in Leytonstone High Road coming  up to the Green Man? Cars mostly stay out of it now. (They used to drive a straight line most of the time)

Going down you mean? So you're cycling south? That lane gave me Teh Feer , you'd either cycle in the door zone and risk losing a testicle or further out and get angrily bibbed.

They do say The Red Lion is a catalyst for gentrification..


Funnily enough a man was killed near there when someone in a passing car threw a cabbage at him.

Well, actually I was going up most of the time. Although I'm down by the Wanstead Flats I've taken to swinging across that way on the way home, not entirely sure why. But, where the cars used to ignore the lane (you know what I mean, I'm sure) they now seem to follow the path of the road, leaving the lanes on both sides clear.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 28 June, 2012, 11:11:03 pm
I noticed that another selection of caravans and campervans have appeared on Tooting Bec Common, so presumably the council's legal bods will be shooting off to court again.

To be fair, from the tyre tracks, it looks like they drove over the kerb and straight onto the Common from the road, and didn't get there via the cycle path and virtually never locked gate, that would stop them going that way.

The last lot went within a couple of days, presumably after some action by the council.  I wonder how long this lot will last?

I can't say I'm a great fan of such groups, since in my admittedly limited experience of such, the amount of debris that is left behind, when they eventually move on, can be phenomenal.  Where they are currently, they're unlikely to have much effect on the cycle path, since they are quite a distance from it, but on other occasions I've seen travelers parked up a few feet from cycle paths, and have had to cycle around the debris produced by them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 28 June, 2012, 11:11:56 pm
I received a tweet (re-tweet? - I don't understand how these things work) at lunch time re my regular commute route
(https://p.twimg.com/AweGSybCEAAZaOX.jpg:large)

Thanks Kim.
Route duly amended.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 28 June, 2012, 11:14:18 pm
I just saw on the news that people elsewhere in Britain have been having Weather today. Blimey.

Completely oblivious down here in the sun-drenched Soft Southtm.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 28 June, 2012, 11:17:32 pm
So Basil, you didn't fancy having a go anyway, and seeing how deep it was? ;D

Does that slope down?  Without knowing the road, it's hard to say whether that's just a long shallow puddle, or worse.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 28 June, 2012, 11:21:45 pm
Looks about bottom bracket height to me.  Maybe a bit more.

Of course, it's more serious than that, as it's Basil's route home from the pub.  I'm sure Nothing would happen.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 28 June, 2012, 11:31:09 pm
Bugger.  My back garden looks similar.  :'(
That's the shed buggered, then.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 28 June, 2012, 11:38:28 pm
Quote from: Kim on 28 June, 2012, 11:21:45 pm
Looks about bottom bracket height to me.  Maybe a bit more.

Of course, it's more serious than that, as it's Basil's route home from the pub.  I'm sure Nothing would happen.
;D
No, not tonight, Kim.   :)
If nothing's going to happen, it tends to be a bit further back, on Goose Alley, onna Friday night.  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 28 June, 2012, 11:44:12 pm
Quote from: Basil on 28 June, 2012, 11:11:56 pm
(https://p.twimg.com/AweGSybCEAAZaOX.jpg:large)

I've just noticed the traffic lights are off in this photo.  Water in the electrickery?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 28 June, 2012, 11:48:14 pm
If so, I hope that chap’s boots are well-insulated.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 28 June, 2012, 11:50:10 pm
They were still off this evening.  The road was officially closed with barriers and stuff.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dinamo on 29 June, 2012, 12:29:02 am
Unable to cycle to work earlier, had to take the car.
M32,M4 & M5 at rush hour are not to be recommended  :hand:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 29 June, 2012, 02:40:38 am
Weird all these mentions of WEATHER. It was very sunny here this afternoon and so dry I mowed the lawn!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 29 June, 2012, 09:09:07 am
(http://imgs.xkcd.com/comics/warning.png)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 29 June, 2012, 09:40:26 am
Quote from: Feline on 29 June, 2012, 02:40:38 am
Weird all these mentions of WEATHER. It was very sunny here this afternoon and so dry I mowed the lawn!

Indeed.  It was swelteringly hot here yesterday.  It's not as sunny today, but it's not cool or wet to any noticeable degree.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 29 June, 2012, 09:41:16 am
My Friday Legs did not appreciate the headwind this morning.  >:(  I shan't be doing the full 40km commute today, and may even struggle to hit 30km (my target average).  I just hope the wind continues for the following two evenings - should make the FNRttC and DunRun a bit quicker. :)

Yesterday, for the first time in ages (ever?) I did a summer commute wearing a helmet.  (I usually only wear one when dusk and the evening commute coincide as my old helmet has a torch mount.)  Can't say I enjoyed it, but at least my new lid (arrived Wednesday, my old one is cheap and ancient), a Kask K10, is lighter and all around 'better' than the old one.  I'll do a few more commutes with it before the end of July to get used to it as I'll have to wear one in Spain (teh Law).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 29 June, 2012, 07:04:01 pm
Sprayed by the windscreen washers of a black hatchback. Used to get that a fair bit in London.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 29 June, 2012, 11:34:01 pm
Soaked in a cloudburst, and swore out loud at the closest of close passes to date.  2 inches from my knuckles, I swear.

Plus sunshine, and choons and miles and smiles :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 29 June, 2012, 11:46:49 pm
Hmm. Saw a Hercules doing a circuit. Then it came in on final almost right over my head. Took a pic of the new wind farm. Saw a woman sculling in the river. Saw a guy coming the other way on fixed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 30 June, 2012, 12:51:39 am
Did the Uxbridge Commute today.  37.5 miles each way.  2 hr 12 with a tailwind there.  2hr 15min with big legs into a stonking headwind on the way back.  Looks like the Mille Alba did me good  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: handcyclist on 01 July, 2012, 05:03:14 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 29 June, 2012, 07:04:01 pm
Sprayed by the windscreen washers of a black hatchback. Used to get that a fair bit in London.

Newsflash-Newsflash-Newsflash-Newsflash-Newsflash-Newsflash-Newsflash-Newsflash-Newsflash-Newsflash-Newsflash-Newsflash-Newsflash-Newsflash


In a unprecendented joint campaign between CAMERA (The Campaign for Real Ale) and the CTC (Cylist's Touring Club), MPs are to be lobbyed to support a new Bill legislating on the alchohol content of all screenwash sold in the UK. It is proposed that from April the 1st 2013, all screenwash will be, in varying concentration according to season, a solution comprised solely of micro-brewed ale.

The MP for Tunbridge Wells has joined forces with MPs representing other middle class bastions proposing an ammendment to include wine and gin and tonic solutions. Rumour has it that Alex Salmond is proposing to table a Scotch Whisky clause at the  Edinburgh assembly.

Newsflash-Newsflash-Newsflash-Newsflash-Newsflash-Newsflash-Newsflash-Newsflash-Newsflash-Newsflash-Newsflash-Newsflash-Newsflash-Newsflash
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 02 July, 2012, 07:55:44 am
First half was tough today, heavy legs and a headwind. Second half was a blast, got a scooter on the dual carriageway  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 July, 2012, 08:54:17 am
Had a yob get out of his car and swing a leg trying to kick me off this morning.  I suppose I'll report it, but I really don't expect anything to be done.  Not least because I doubt if the driver owned the car, and I would faint with surprise if it had genuine plates on.  But also because Met...cyclist...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 02 July, 2012, 09:04:31 am
Quote from: clarion on 02 July, 2012, 08:54:17 am
Had a yob get out of his car and swing a leg trying to kick me off this morning.  I suppose I'll report it, but I really don't expect anything to be done.  Not least because I doubt if the driver owned the car, and I would faint with surprise if it had genuine plates on.  But also because Met...cyclist...

Sounds horrid... any cause, perceived slight? Not suggesting that it makes it acceptable or even understandable in the slightest, just curious.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 02 July, 2012, 09:23:13 am
Following back-to-back FNRttC/DunRun I took the shortest of my quiet routes in to work this morning.  First few kilometres were a struggle, but overall things were OK.  I was tempted to just take the tube or tube/NorrisBike, but the horror just wasn't worth it.

It will be another short and slow one home tonight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 July, 2012, 09:25:31 am
Quote from: Ham on 02 July, 2012, 09:04:31 am
Quote from: clarion on 02 July, 2012, 08:54:17 am
Had a yob get out of his car and swing a leg trying to kick me off this morning.  I suppose I'll report it, but I really don't expect anything to be done.  Not least because I doubt if the driver owned the car, and I would faint with surprise if it had genuine plates on.  But also because Met...cyclist...

Sounds horrid... any cause, perceived slight? Not suggesting that it makes it acceptable or even understandable in the slightest, just curious.

Yeah.  I was on the road, and we'd both been delayed by a bin lorry.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 02 July, 2012, 10:20:09 am
Quote from: clarion on 02 July, 2012, 08:54:17 am
Had a yob get out of his car and swing a leg trying to kick me off this morning.  I suppose I'll report it, but I really don't expect anything to be done.  Not least because I doubt if the driver owned the car, and I would faint with surprise if it had genuine plates on.  But also because Met...cyclist...

Yuck.  Having a driver stop in the middle of the road and lean out his window for a rant at me was bad enough (months ago).  Hope your Monday gets better.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 July, 2012, 10:24:03 am
Bit spaced at the moment, wondering how best to report it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 02 July, 2012, 10:33:02 am
Had a chap overtake me on an electric bike yesterday at over 25mph with assist, I had to laugh. :) Illegal, but I'd rather see more of those than the same people in their cars.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 02 July, 2012, 10:57:59 am
Massive queues in Queenstown Road and I can't see what was causing it either. Bad weather forecast meant cars being used to avoid getting damp?
Who knows?

Slightly sore after the DD, but surprisingly quick!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 02 July, 2012, 10:58:58 am
Did you ride back, Alex?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dora on 02 July, 2012, 01:34:12 pm
I experienced my two closest passes ever!  One by one of those weenie cars usually driven by 17 year old girls, the other, even closer by a fellow cyclist!  I let out a loud shriek and jumped about five feet into the air, but the bike didn't so much as wobble!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 02 July, 2012, 01:40:47 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 02 July, 2012, 10:58:58 am
Did you ride back, Alex?

No. Too unfit by far, but did take anap on the beach and then rode onto Ipswich via the most scenic back lanes you can imagine. I stopped for a picnic in a field at one point and was just struck by how incredible the countryside can be once you move off the A roads. I think I saw about 10 cars the whole way back once I'd got off the main drag.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 02 July, 2012, 02:05:01 pm
Apparently my 'road hogging' nearly caused an accident this morning. The only opportunity that the motorcyclist could find to overtake was by passing on the wrong side of a mini-roundabout - at which point he almost t-boned himself into the side of the car that I was behind as it made an unsignaled u-turn. He carried on riding like a twat for the next three miles while still failing to make any better progress than me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 02 July, 2012, 04:27:43 pm
New record for the dash to the station this morning - 7:22, first time I've gone under eight minutes. Average speed 39km/h, max speed on the descent into town 70km/h - probably could have gone faster but at that speed, the road runs out very quickly...

Possibly a wee hint of wind assistance.  ;D

Slightly concerned that my HRM recorded an average of 192 and a max of 239. Suspect a glitch somewhere! (It felt high, but not that high.)

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tigerrr on 02 July, 2012, 06:43:23 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 02 July, 2012, 10:33:02 am
Had a chap overtake me on an electric bike yesterday at over 25mph with assist, I had to laugh. :) Illegal, but I'd rather see more of those than the same people in their cars.
Was it a recumbent trike? If so he must be the guy I have seen a couple of times lately - he can get near 30mph on that thing. As soon as I find out where to get one I am going to convert th speedmachine.  Its very discrete and only the unfeasible speed give away the fact that its powered.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 02 July, 2012, 06:48:29 pm
No, just some sort of hybrid. It looked pretty good, a very practical commuting machine.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 02 July, 2012, 08:05:21 pm
Very nearly got squished this morning  :o

4wd at an island obviously didn't see me until the last moment when he/she skidded to a halt, by which time I was out of the saddle putting in a sprint that Cav would've been proud of.  Closest miss yet & slowed me down for a mile or so whilst I pondered life n stuff. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 02 July, 2012, 09:46:29 pm
Sorry to hear of the various nasty commutes today.

My ride in was in sunshine and tailwind.

The ride home was a bit grey and cold so I'm glad I had leg warmers in the pannier to supplement my shorts. I took the longer way home (4 miles extra) despite the headwind and the majority of the rain during my commute fell during that four miles  ::-)

Not sure what's wrong with my set up but my achilles tendon in my left leg only was playing up again. Seems to happen more often than I'd like (albeit not every ride), it's not like my commute is mega long.  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 02 July, 2012, 09:56:43 pm
Thorough drenching earlier. Rode via Shepherd’s Bush / Goldhawk Road - lots of twatty driving, about 50/50 frustrated people driving pointlessly fast for 200 m at a time then being a queue / people completely oblivious to their surroundings in general. I used to think that I was just hypersensitive to bad driving when it rains due to longer stopping distances etc, but it’s not that: the driving is worse.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 02 July, 2012, 10:13:09 pm
Lovely ride in today. The new (to me) Mercian is a complete delight. Just the one, small fly in the ointment (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=26293.msg1263453#msg1263453), but no harm done, and lesson learned.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 02 July, 2012, 10:15:07 pm
I had an awesome commute yesterday, no incidents at all in 45 miles. That happens surprisingly often, and shows nicely how most drivers are just fine. It's only a tiny minority that misbehave, be it carelessly or intentionally.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 02 July, 2012, 10:20:09 pm
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 02 July, 2012, 09:56:43 pm
Thorough drenching earlier. Rode via Shepherd’s Bush / Goldhawk Road - lots of twatty driving, about 50/50 frustrated people driving pointlessly fast for 200 m at a time then being a queue / people completely oblivious to their surroundings in general. I used to think that I was just hypersensitive to bad driving when it rains due to longer stopping distances etc, but it’s not that: the driving is worse.

You often up that end of town? I'm through there morning and evening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 02 July, 2012, 10:20:58 pm
Got damp on the way home. Been lucky cos it's the wettest June for eleventy million years or something.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 July, 2012, 10:37:34 pm
I was determined not to be put off by this morning.  So I headed off along Embankment, where I passed a pitiful eighteen riders - as much due to the lack of riders as the headwind.  Then into Richmond Park, where more wet and more wind greeted me.

I headed off homeward, getting slower, and turned off to the supermarket.  But I couldn't face going up to the top of the hill, and so went to Tracks in Sutton.  It's too big, all the things are in the wrong place, and, for all the choice and variety, don't have basics.  Four foot wide of an entire shelf stack given over to porridge products, but not one bag or box of just oats.  Just disheartening.

I crammed all the shopping in my bags, but didn't want to leave.  The roads were not enticing,   and, as I rode along, I found the poor surfaces meant my reluctance was justified.

But I got home safe, and that means I must have had a good ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 02 July, 2012, 10:47:06 pm
I got a drenching on the way home too.  Love cycling in the rain when its warm though, shorts & ss jersey if its wet & warm.  Skin is still the best goretex money can't buy  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 July, 2012, 08:55:09 am
It's not been a great week for commuting so far.  I'm at a&e having been bitten by a pothole. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 03 July, 2012, 08:56:45 am
Ouch! GWS, hope you are OK... not having a good week, really, are you   ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonyh on 03 July, 2012, 08:59:41 am

!  Hope you are ok. All the best.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 03 July, 2012, 09:03:14 am
Quote from: clarion on 03 July, 2012, 08:55:09 am
It's not been a great week for commuting so far.  I'm at a&e having been bitten by a pothole. :(

Bugger.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 03 July, 2012, 09:03:44 am
Quote from: clarion on 03 July, 2012, 08:55:09 am
It's not been a great week for commuting so far.  I'm at a&e having been bitten by a pothole. :(

Oh no!  *hugs*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cycleman on 03 July, 2012, 09:22:00 am
get well soon clarion . gravity sucks  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dora on 03 July, 2012, 09:22:10 am
Quote from: clarion on 03 July, 2012, 08:55:09 am
It's not been a great week for commuting so far.  I'm at a&e having been bitten by a pothole. :(

1. I hope you're ok.
2. "bitten by a pothole" is a brilliant phrase!  I'm sorry, it made me giggle.  Love it!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 03 July, 2012, 10:52:27 am
Quote from: clarion on 03 July, 2012, 08:55:09 am
I'm at a&e having been bitten by a pothole. :(

Oh no! That's not nice. GWS.

What's the damage?

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 03 July, 2012, 10:54:22 am
Struth clarion I hope whatever damage the pothole bite has inflicted repairs soon.

First ride in this morning after the Dun Run was worried my legs wouldn't go, but they did and a brisk (for me) 14 minute commute.

However I do seem to have developed a touch of Carpal Tunnel in my right hand :-(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 03 July, 2012, 11:00:19 am
Put on cycling shorts, knee warmers, pbp top, arm warmers, and had my fastest commute for a while.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 03 July, 2012, 11:22:56 am
Bad luck Clarion - hope you're not too badly damaged and that you'll be spotted at E&C again soon.

In other news, 2 deflations this morning.  I've not had one of these on the road since hitting a rock on a fast descent in the Chilterns last September.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 03 July, 2012, 11:47:07 am
Quote from: simonp on 03 July, 2012, 11:00:19 am
Put on cycling shorts, knee warmers, pbp top, arm warmers, and had my fastest commute for a while.

Bibshorts, knee warmers, windproof vest, long-sleeve Helly base layer and regular jersey for me this morning. Don't really know why I felt I needed the extra layers but like you, I think I benefitted from them.

Very sweaty though. And I forgot my bidon so was a bit dehydrated by the time I got to work.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 03 July, 2012, 11:50:03 am
I had a base layer on too, but it was short sleeved.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 July, 2012, 11:55:25 am
Out of hospital.  Nothing broken, but one hand is in plaster and the other arm is in a sling.  Chainring bent and forks reset :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 03 July, 2012, 11:59:06 am
Not good. GWS. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 03 July, 2012, 12:04:01 pm
Quote from: clarion on 03 July, 2012, 11:55:25 am
Out of hospital.  Nothing broken, but one hand is in plaster and the other arm is in a sling.  Chainring bent and forks reset :(

Bugger.
That sounds a lot of strapping up for no bones broken, you torn a bunch of tendons?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 03 July, 2012, 12:22:12 pm
GWS clarion, you ain't havin a good week, and it's only tuesday!!

Went for 3/4's today, with s/s jersey, arm warmers and gilet which was spot on but I think that I'll be a bit warm on the way home
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 July, 2012, 12:24:32 pm
Ligament damage mainly, AIUI.  Huzzah for tough collarbones!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 03 July, 2012, 12:36:04 pm
Quote from: Si_Co on 03 July, 2012, 12:22:12 pm
GWS clarion, you ain't havin a good week, and it's only tuesday!!

Went for 3/4's today, with s/s jersey, arm warmers and gilet which was spot on but I think that I'll be a bit warm on the way home

Wear only one arm warmer.If still too warm remove one glove
hth
 ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 03 July, 2012, 12:39:41 pm
Yeah, was waiting for some smart @r$e remark after I read my post  ::-)   ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 03 July, 2012, 12:48:54 pm
Quote from: clarion on 03 July, 2012, 12:24:32 pm
Huzzah for tough collarbones!

Lucky!

I'm really concerned since I've lost weight that I no longer have any "padding" on my shoulders. Now I understand why the pros get so many collarbone fractures - they're like race horses. The main difference being they don't get put down when they fall. (That would make the Tour a bit more interesting...)

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ian H on 03 July, 2012, 01:07:59 pm
Quote from: clarion on 03 July, 2012, 12:24:32 pm
Ligament damage mainly, AIUI.  Huzzah for tough collarbones!

I'm glad you bounced.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Marj on 03 July, 2012, 01:52:44 pm
Quote from: Si_Co on 03 July, 2012, 12:39:41 pm
Yeah, was waiting for some smart @r$e remark after I read my post  ::-)   ;D

You know that there is always someone on here that will oblige  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 03 July, 2012, 02:22:21 pm
"He's a strapping lad, that Clarion. All strapped up, that is."
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 03 July, 2012, 02:58:55 pm
Bummer, Clarion.

GWS
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 03 July, 2012, 03:37:00 pm
Quote from: Marj on 03 July, 2012, 01:52:44 pm
Quote from: Si_Co on 03 July, 2012, 12:39:41 pm
Yeah, was waiting for some smart @r$e remark after I read my post  ::-)   ;D

You know that there is always someone on here that will oblige  ;)

Predictable,me?

No, but I will admit to being consistent & reliable ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 03 July, 2012, 09:57:28 pm
Yea, the weather is a bit difficult for clothing choice.

The early morning ride in needs thermals and windproof top, because of the dense low cloud and fog which becomes even denser over the top of the hill.   Even though it's not raining, everything becomes soaked, and then you have a fast-ish descent which creates an apparent wind which chills you down quite badly.   Shorts are still the best option on the bottom half.

But the ride home can become a sweat-fest, because although it's still foggy at the coast, once you go in-land, it clears and the climb is in clear sunshine.

Came across a club ride of some sort heading up the hill in the opposite direction to me.  Gave them a cheery wave.


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 03 July, 2012, 10:10:16 pm
Get well soon Clarion  :-*

What in holy hell has happened to the A202 this week? There are no bloody roadworks. I can only assume that TfL are buggering about with the traffic lights  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 04 July, 2012, 01:14:59 am
ALL roadworks have been cleared, HW, it is REEL fun. At least for the duration of the holy impics.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 04 July, 2012, 09:56:44 am
A woman walking two border collies saw me coming and told the dogs to lie down in the verge until I had passed, and they did.  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 04 July, 2012, 10:20:50 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 03 July, 2012, 10:10:16 pm
Get well soon Clarion  :-*

What in holy hell has happened to the A202 this week? There are no bloody roadworks. I can only assume that TfL are buggering about with the traffic lights  ???
The A24 up Brixton Hill has been solid queues too. I suspect it's something to do with the Olympics further into town.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 July, 2012, 11:13:35 am
The Zil Lanes are being painted, and causing a lot of delays.  Not sure if either of those roads are directly affected.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 04 July, 2012, 11:18:45 am
Quote from: Butterfly on 04 July, 2012, 10:20:50 am
Quote from: her_welshness on 03 July, 2012, 10:10:16 pm
Get well soon Clarion  :-*

What in holy hell has happened to the A202 this week? There are no bloody roadworks. I can only assume that TfL are buggering about with the traffic lights  ???
The A24 up Brixton Hill has been solid queues too. I suspect it's something to do with the Olympics further into town.

Lordship Lane was chocka this morning too. As was Lambeth Road, but then it always is. Neither is an Olympic route AFAIK.

I had two lovely rides this morning. The first leg, from home to Sittingbourne was quiet and fast and just glorious. The rain held off, there was no wind to speak of (the slightest of head/crosswinds, if anything), and traffic was light. I had intended to take it fairly easy but once I got warmed up, I couldn't help myself... probably just as well, as I only just made the train. Have a feeling I set a new PB on a Strava segment too, if not a KOM, but I'll have to wait until I get home this evening to upload the data and find out. 31.4km/h average for the 26km - not a PB but not far off.

Bromley to Southwark was a bit slower, mainly because of the aforementioned traffic, but again I found myself unable to resist the urge to push where I had a clear road, especially with the slight tailwind... Sweet.  8)

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 04 July, 2012, 01:28:49 pm
Headwinds,  muppetry and enough diesel on the roads run my campervan to France made it interesting.

Amazing the difference leaving 5 minutes later makes, Warburton bridge was like a sodding race track at 6.55. Why?

Oh yes, Mrs silly cow in the merc, I understand you need to do 50 in a 30 overtake on a blind crest with a blind bend behind it because the toll booth on the other side doesn't open till 7 and 12 pence is going to really add to your motoring costs isn't it?

<rant over> maybe this was in the wrong thread.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ianrauk on 04 July, 2012, 08:39:47 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 04 July, 2012, 11:18:45 am

Lordship Lane was chocka this morning too. As was Lambeth Road, but then it always is. Neither is an Olympic route AFAIK.

I had two lovely rides this morning. The first leg, from home to Sittingbourne was quiet and fast and just glorious. The rain held off, there was no wind to speak of (the slightest of head/crosswinds, if anything), and traffic was light. I had intended to take it fairly easy but once I got warmed up, I couldn't help myself... probably just as well, as I only just made the train. Have a feeling I set a new PB on a Strava segment too, if not a KOM, but I'll have to wait until I get home this evening to upload the data and find out. 31.4km/h average for the 26km - not a PB but not far off.

Bromley to Southwark was a bit slower, mainly because of the aforementioned traffic, but again I found myself unable to resist the urge to push where I had a clear road, especially with the slight tailwind... Sweet.  8)

d.

Smutch, just being nosey.
How long is your daily commute door to door?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 05 July, 2012, 07:41:22 am
Quote from: Si_Co on 04 July, 2012, 01:28:49 pm
Headwinds,  muppetry and enough diesel on the roads run my campervan to France made it interesting.

Amazing the difference leaving 5 minutes later makes, Warburton bridge was like a sodding race track at 6.55. Why?

Oh yes, Mrs silly cow in the merc, I understand you need to do 50 in a 30 overtake on a blind crest with a blind bend behind it because the toll booth on the other side doesn't open till 7 and 12 pence is going to really add to your motoring costs isn't it?

<rant over> maybe this was in the wrong thread.

I have noticed this phenomenon as well.

It seems that if you leave a bit earlier when the traffic is lighter a sort or WVM's playtime comes into force, though the contagion does spread to other vehicles.

Perhaps when there is more traffic their little Stegosaurus brains can compute that they ain't going anywhere and there's no point sprinting between traffic lights.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 05 July, 2012, 08:59:13 am
Oh what a perfect day......

First few miles chatting with a vet racer (Paul) on a Thorn Audax, then met up with a mate for his first ride in, so a perfect excuse for pootle pace. Sun came out for the Hyde Park stop. What's not to like?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 05 July, 2012, 09:08:28 am
The forecast was for light rain - but it is glorious out there!  Almost wish I had a longer commute.  If it is like this at 6pm I might make one up, and cycle to one of the stopping service stations further out instead of to Waterloo.

My office looks out over Buckingham Palace Gardens.  The open top tour buses will be busy today (unfortunately they are some of the worst overtakers along Grosvenor Place).

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 05 July, 2012, 10:37:11 am
Quote from: ianrauk on 04 July, 2012, 08:39:47 pm
Smutch, just being nosey.
How long is your daily commute door to door?

My journey is Whitstable to Southwark, but the train:bike ratio varies from day to day depending on various factors - mostly what time I manage to drag myself out of bed in the morning (to maximise my morning mileage, I need to have left the house by 7am, which isn't too difficult at this time of year).

So, an absolute minimum of 11km per day (the 4.5km dash from home to the station then 1km from London Bridge to the office, then back again in the evening); but last week I did >80km on two separate days. An aggregate of 200km is a good week, 250km or more is a very good week...

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 05 July, 2012, 10:55:29 am
It was great to be back on the bike this morning, even if only on the short route.  I enjoyed it so much the non-favourable wind didn't bother me.  On the other hand, there really was no good reason for me to do the whole route on the big ring.  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 05 July, 2012, 12:06:28 pm
Forecast was "100% rain" and it's blazing sunshine.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 05 July, 2012, 12:34:19 pm
One of those lovely mornings riding through patches of mist and sunshine. Really enjoy that.
Title: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 05 July, 2012, 07:22:54 pm
Had a bit of fun with a RLJing twat this evening. I was waiting at the lights when he came past me and straight through, though crossing traffic impeded his further progress.

When the lights changed, there wasn't room to get past him easily/safely, plus there was a bit of a headwind, so I decided to just sit on his wheel. He did not like that one bit.

He tried to up the pace but however much he accelerated, I just stuck to him like glue, until I decided it was time to put the hammer down...

As I disappeared into the distance, he sarcastically enquired, "Nice tow?" so I thought it only fair to give him a wave of gratitude while smirking smugly like the big child I am. ;D

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 05 July, 2012, 08:10:57 pm
The weather around here has been quite foggy of late.
There's a dense sea harr near the coast, but it clears as you go in-land, as my commute does.
However, as you gain height ( as my commute does ), it's back into mist and then dense low cloud which shrouds the summit.
Visibility is well less than 50m on the top.

This has given rise to several scary moments, with vehicles going much too fast for the conditions not seeing me till the last minute, and swerving past me at speed.

So I took my 'winter' route today, which avoids the high ground, but it adds a couple of k each way.
That was much more pleasant.
I'm going to stay on the lower route so long as the dense fog prevails.

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/195913018

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 05 July, 2012, 08:49:20 pm
Lovely weather so cycled the long way home. 25 miles in the sun :D

I did not appreciate all the bugglies getting in my face though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 05 July, 2012, 09:35:33 pm
Adjusting my route home via Plumstead and the Woolwich Ferry was quite appealing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 05 July, 2012, 09:42:50 pm
In search of adventure (a man may not tire of London, but he does tire of riding through the Democratic Republic of Peckham on his way home) I've been following LCN routes. Those little mysterious numbers marked under a pictogram of a bicycle that grace the occasional road. The rules are that I must navigate entirely by signage and road markings, there is no map usage, or cheating by using the GPS on my phone. Also, no fat blue superhighways. Old skool twisty-turny LCN only. I am allowed the occasional peek at bus stop signs (but not the maps).

Yesterday, I managed number 3 from Waterloo to Clapham Common where it appeared to double-back on itself, like a snake devouring its own tail. One moment I was destined for Clapham 'Village' the next I was facing Stockwell and Waterloo again. I presume that meant the end of the road for me. I couldn't find a continuation, unless it cut through the unexplored wilderness of Clapham Common. So, I ambled back through Brixton and Herne Hill back into the safety of SE London. Not to be daunted, I tried again tonight, losing it again, so perhaps that really is the end of number 3. Throwing caution to the wind, I forged on into Clapham Common and found route 5*, which is pretty close to 3 and that promised Norbury, which while not much of a destination, is (a) nicer than Thornton Heath (which is no compliment, Mogadishu is probably nicer) and (b) in the general direction I needed to go. That was going pretty well until I plunged under train tracks into what I presumed was Tooting Bec Common. I followed the bike path, eventually noting the number 5 had taken flight. Well, I know enough from my LCN adventures to date that signage is capricious, occasionally non-existent, or liable to twisted or erased by wayward youth, so I forged on until I ran out of common and, it seemed, the cycle route. I did discover what could have been an never-ending expanse of grim suburbia, like someone had let off a nuclear pebble-dashing bomb. It was so grey I could taste it. That could just have been diesel fumes though.

Somehow, and I'm unsure how unless I have weird homing pigeon skills, I stumbled across route 5 again by Streatham Common station and resumed my progress, finally reaching Norbury and clambering up the heights of Beulah Hill to get home.

A part success. I need to brave the dark heart of Tooting Common again.

I have discovered two things on my cycle ramblings through London, if you get completely lost you always end up in one of two places: Finsbury Park or Sutton. Always. I think there are black holes under them and the gravity eventually overcomes your sense of misdirection.

*there was a 3 and a 25 also marked, so maybe 3 does go somewhere else.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 05 July, 2012, 10:19:14 pm
Please send this to Sustrans and all the others who promote "cycle routes" or "cycle networks.  As Mayer Hillman once said at a LCC conference - there already is a London Cycling Network: it's called The Roads
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 05 July, 2012, 10:21:32 pm
Quote from: ian on 05 July, 2012, 09:42:50 pm

I have discovered two things on my cycle ramblings through London, if you get completely lost you always end up in one of two places: Finsbury Park or Sutton. Always. I think there are black holes under them and the gravity eventually overcomes your sense of misdirection.


I found something similar in north Cornwall a few years back, where following cycle route signs took you into an endless spiral.  It is possible that some local has realigned a few signs to achieve this effect.  For a long time it was impossible to escape Silchester in North Hampshire if you trusted to the road signs. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 06 July, 2012, 08:48:03 am
Nearly, nearly escaped the rain.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 06 July, 2012, 09:03:15 am
I'm wearing my rainlegs and you can all shove your judgement up your arses.  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 July, 2012, 09:39:21 am
*rubs thighs in lascivious Vic Reeves manner*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 06 July, 2012, 09:41:01 am
hit a reckless pedestrian today.. almost stationary traffic my direction, stationary opposite direction (king william st, london). i'm going on the outside of very slowly moving single file traffic at about 15kph, quite a few pedestrians look and wait for their chance to cross the street (no pedestrian crossing there). one chap, rainhood on, headphones in, decides to walk across right in front of me without looking at all. hit his head with my left shoulder, then bounced into a stationary van standing in the opposite lane and onto the ground. no real damage to me or the bike, pedestrian got minor head concussion, but apologised, we shook hands and parted.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 06 July, 2012, 10:40:07 am
Quote from: ian on 05 July, 2012, 09:42:50 pm
In search of adventure (a man may not tire of London, but he does tire of riding through the Democratic Republic of Peckham on his way home) I've been following LCN routes. Those little mysterious numbers marked under a pictogram of a bicycle that grace the occasional road. The rules are that I must navigate entirely by signage and road markings, there is no map usage, or cheating by using the GPS on my phone. Also, no fat blue superhighways. Old skool twisty-turny LCN only. I am allowed the occasional peek at bus stop signs (but not the maps).

Throwing caution to the wind, I forged on into Clapham Common and found route 5*, which is pretty close to 3 and that promised Norbury, which while not much of a destination, is (a) nicer than Thornton Heath (which is no compliment, Mogadishu is probably nicer) and (b) in the general direction I needed to go. That was going pretty well until I plunged under train tracks into what I presumed was Tooting Bec Common. I followed the bike path, eventually noting the number 5 had taken flight. Well, I know enough from my LCN adventures to date that signage is capricious, occasionally non-existent, or liable to twisted or erased by wayward youth, so I forged on until I ran out of common and, it seemed, the cycle route.

Somehow, and I'm unsure how unless I have weird homing pigeon skills, I stumbled across route 5 again by Streatham Common station and resumed my progress, finally reaching Norbury and clambering up the heights of Beulah Hill to get home.

A part success. I need to brave the dark heart of Tooting Common again.

This is because route 5 has not been updated to take into account the existance of the cycle path across the common.

If you are coming from Norbury, route 5 takes you past Streatham Common station, over to Tooting Bec Common, around the edge of it, across the road, making you do a right turn across a blind bend, and then down a random suburban street where it leads you to a dead end where you are invited to get off your bike, walk across a muddy path and then through the common to rejoin the road (after a 300m detour on foot) where route 5 zigs and zags before meeting up with the point where you first found it.

If you are coming from Balham, you need to ignore route 5, but carry on along Cavendish Road, under the railway bridge, across both parts of the common on the new cycling path (only about 3 or 4 years old now) and then turn left up Tooting Bec, turn right at the end and you'll rejoin route 5.

Simples!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 06 July, 2012, 11:02:30 am
Quote from: zigzag on 06 July, 2012, 09:41:01 am
recklessly hit a pedestrian today..

FTFY.

Pedestrians coming through gaps between cars is something you need to be wary of when filtering past stationary traffic. Don't blame the headphones, that's a red herring.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 06 July, 2012, 11:07:47 am
Quote from: citoyen on 06 July, 2012, 11:02:30 am
Quote from: zigzag on 06 July, 2012, 09:41:01 am
recklessly hit a pedestrian today..

FTFY.

Pedestrians coming through gaps between cars is something you need to be wary of when filtering past stationary traffic. Don't blame the headphones, that's a red herring.

d.

That's all true enough, but there is also some responsibility to place on pedestrians for looking as they walk through standing traffic. It's not like filtering two wheelers are uncommon here in London.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 06 July, 2012, 11:19:37 am
I don't hit pedestrians as a matter of principle, not even when it's their fault.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 06 July, 2012, 11:26:42 am
Quote from: citoyen on 06 July, 2012, 11:19:37 am
I don't hit pedestrians as a matter of principle, not even when it's their fault.

d.

I'd like to think zigzag is just as good at that as the rest of us generally are. That's not too kind an interpretation, I hope you'll agree?

On the other hand, every once in a rare while, circumstances cause us to be unable to correct for the pedestrian's error, and/or we make one ourselves as well. I've had one very minor and very low speed bump with two pedestrians at the same time. No injury to them or to myself, and pretty much a non-incident. I'm quite happy with that in 40,000 odd London miles, and I hope I can carry on to do as well in the next years. ISTR I've had two additional minor close calls, also at low speed but without impact.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 06 July, 2012, 11:29:50 am
Quote from: Wendy on 06 July, 2012, 11:26:42 am
I'd like to think zigzag is just as good at that as the rest of us generally are. That's not too kind an interpretation, I hope you'll agree?

Sure. It's just zigzag's assumption that the pedestrian was wholly at fault that riles me slightly.

Quote
I'm quite happy with that in 40,000 odd London miles, and I hope I can carry on to do as well in the next years. ISTR I've had two additional minor close calls, also at low speed but without impact.

Fair enough. I can't claim I've never made mistakes either.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 06 July, 2012, 11:53:23 am
i was going slowly knowing that many pedestrians are crossing the street at that place given a chance. but how can you stop when someone steps right in front of you, without even looking? traffic was moving at a walking pace and i was going only a bit faster on the outside. (he's lucky it wasn't a motorcyclist that has hit him)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 06 July, 2012, 12:13:47 pm
Look, I hate these threads because it seems like it's about criticising someone else's riding without having been there and takes on an all too personal flavour, but on the basis that it is all about discussion of riding techniques and acknowledges, there but for the grace go I, you raise a couple of points.

First, you suggested originally that you were going at around 15kph or slightly less than 10 mph, I'd suggest that's too fast for filtering through crowded traffic when you are expecting pedestrians to step off. Then, you ask, how can you deal with someone stepping out in front of you. The likely places (main junctions, by rail stations) aren't that frequent so shouldn't be too onerous. Second, how do you stop? Well, your speed in combination with having hands on brakes is the answer. If you can't stop in car, motorbike, cycle when a likely hazard occurs then you're going too fast. It really is as simple as that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 06 July, 2012, 12:44:27 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 06 July, 2012, 11:29:50 am
Quote from: Wendy on 06 July, 2012, 11:26:42 am
I'd like to think zigzag is just as good at that as the rest of us generally are. That's not too kind an interpretation, I hope you'll agree?

Sure. It's just zigzag's assumption that the pedestrian was wholly at fault that riles me slightly.
<snip>

But surely if you're on the road and not in a metal box you're asking for it are you not?  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 06 July, 2012, 04:52:58 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 05 July, 2012, 10:19:14 pm
Please send this to Sustrans and all the others who promote "cycle routes" or "cycle networks.  As Mayer Hillman once said at a LCC conference - there already is a London Cycling Network: it's called The Roads

My LCN adventures are an intentional lesson in London's suburban crytogeography. Getting lost is to be encouraged. I know my way back home from both Sutton and Finsbury Park now. Also, I forgot, but there's another black hole under Elephant & Castle. There have been cyclists orbiting that for decades. From their perspective it's still 1979. Anyway, it's a ramble through confusion, delusion, and sudden Proustian whiffs of recognition as I stumble back into familiarity. Believe me, no one has ever been as pleased to see Streatham Common station yesterday as I was. Normally, any sensation of pleasure resulting from the contemplation of Streatham Common is considered a sign of incipient mental disease.

I actually do like the concept far more than the blue stripes, although I'll admit the implementation leaves something to be desired. I'm a confident cyclist. I can hammer straight home via the Elephant, Walworth Road, Camberwell, Dulwich, and Crystal Palace, bumping and grinding with the traffic. But not all cyclists are that confident and a many roads aren't for the faint hearted. Traffic is dense and rather unforgiving. I think there's a place for a cycle network that makes use of other less busy roadways. Yes, it needs some joined up thinking and money, but probably far less than slapping blue paint on the road (not that I'm holding my breath for a 'super highway' to penetrate SE London).

There's actually plenty of room for cycling facilities in London, they don't need to be fully segregated, but create streets that support cycling over cars. Many streets are mostly there. I like the idea. I unintentionally use a lot of 22 and 23 on my travels and they're the core of a reasonable route. They need signage and joining up. Anyway, a shame, we could turn London into a better place to cycle – especially for less confident cyclists – without spilling a small ocean of blue paint, and much of the work is already done.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 06 July, 2012, 05:31:55 pm
It was wet on the way home... this the middle of the Barlaston Road, about 100m off the A34.

(http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c22/gordon1314/IMG_20120706_163618.jpg)

I'd pedalled through a few floods in the previous ten miles and didn't expect this one to be so deep!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 06 July, 2012, 05:34:07 pm
And there was I wondering if I should drain my wheels out after traversing a lengthy 4” deep section.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 06 July, 2012, 05:49:39 pm
The photo looks like it should be in an advertisement for Ortlieb!

I presume you didn't try to ride through :-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: gordon taylor on 06 July, 2012, 06:09:12 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 06 July, 2012, 05:49:39 pm
The photo looks like it should be in an advertisement for Ortlieb!

I presume you didn't try to ride through :-)

I did! But it was pretty obvious, pretty quickly, that it was much too deep! I didn't see this car, round the corner, until I was in the middle of it.  :facepalm:

(http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c22/gordon1314/IMG_20120706_163635.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 06 July, 2012, 06:16:16 pm
The rain didn't bother me tonight, I was on fire, 27 mph all the way down carrington lane.

Average over 10 miles 21mph despite the usual Friday morons
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 06 July, 2012, 06:22:57 pm
Bugger those quotes


But don’t you face a rebuild now? I presume you had no choice but to battle on through.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 06 July, 2012, 06:36:48 pm
Quote from: Gordy on 06 July, 2012, 05:31:55 pm
It was wet on the way home... this the middle of the Barlaston Road, about 100m off the A34.

(http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c22/gordon1314/IMG_20120706_163618.jpg)

I'd pedalled through a few floods in the previous ten miles and didn't expect this one to be so deep!

Cor Blimey.

Your BB and hubs might need a little love this weekend!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: phantasmagoriana on 06 July, 2012, 10:06:34 pm
Quote from: Gordy on 06 July, 2012, 05:31:55 pm
It was wet on the way home... this the middle of the Barlaston Road, about 100m off the A34.

(http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c22/gordon1314/IMG_20120706_163618.jpg)

I'd pedalled through a few floods in the previous ten miles and didn't expect this one to be so deep!

 :o

I thought I'd ridden through some pretty deep water today, but it was nothing on this!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 07 July, 2012, 10:19:59 am
Not today but yesterday. I actually managed to leave early in the morning so did a few extra miiles on the way in including wice round the block at work to make it a nice round 20 miles. Really set me up for the day and didn't get all buggified, I guess their alarms hadn't gone off yet :D

A bit worried when it started tipping it down in the middle of the day but had cleared by home time and had a lovely ride home in the sun chatting to a fellow cyclist along the lanes. Didn't do any extra miles though as wanted to get home for dinner. Yay for pizza Friday!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 08 July, 2012, 09:34:37 pm
I've ridden through floods as deep as that and surprisingly the hubs, pedals etc were fine.

The hardest thing is the resistance!  It's amazingly hard work pedalling through deep water.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 09 July, 2012, 07:58:37 am
Today's entertainment was watching the driver of an artic, complete with trailer, negotiate the toll booth at the bottom of Warburton Bridge, weight limit 3 tonnes  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 09 July, 2012, 08:31:15 am
Not strictly speaking a commute, since I wasn't working, but between work and home yesterday evening, I was hit by probably the heaviest rain I've been in since I was cycling to school! (several decades ago).

It's probably not that different to what many others have had, but it was unusually heavy for me, and of course happened at a point when there wasn't even a bus stop to shelter under.  I did eventually manage to stop under a railway bridge, but not really to take shelter.  I'd gotten so wet by that point, that there was no real point to trying to stay dry, but the rain was so heavy it was difficult to see, it was hitting my eyes so hard and rapidly.  It was also coming down so fast, it was exceeding the roads capacity to get rid of it.  The drains were probably not able to deal with it either, but it couldn't flow off of the road fast enough to get to them, it was like cycling in a stream.

I had to hop onto the footway a few times to miss deep stretches which hadn't had a chance to drain, on a couple of them it was hard to see where the footway was, let alone the kerb!

Going over a small stream, with a bridge over a footpath/cyclepath which often barely has any water in it, the water was approaching the top of some of the bridges, which may have got interesting if it ran out of room.  I didn't hang around to find out!

I turned my Dinotte rear light onto full blast, which I never usually do unless I'm in thick fog, just for the duration of the heavy rain.  I still met some drivers who thought lights unnecessary (I had difficulty seeing them, and I was going slowly), even though it was almost sunset, and the rain made visibility far far poorer. :facepalm:

Of course, by the time I got home, it had stopped, the same as when I left! (albeit by then with somewhat more waterlogged geography).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 09 July, 2012, 11:03:27 am
Quote from: TimO on 09 July, 2012, 08:31:15 am
Not strictly speaking a commute, since I wasn't working, but between work and home yesterday evening, I was hit by probably the heaviest rain I've been in since I was cycling to school! (several decades ago).

...

I think I was caught under the same 'shower'. It rained so heavily I had to stop pedalling since I could no longer see the road surface or more importantly what lurked under it. By that time I was so wet I didn't much care. Let's face it, once the rain breaches the defences of your undergarments, it's too late to bother with the rain jacket. Two small children sheltering in the underpass under Kent House Station regarded me with kind of awe that only truly magnificent stupidity instills, as I dripped by them and headed back out into the rain. To be honest, liberated of the need to try and stay dry I was really enjoying it.

I was pleased to see that car drivers took the conditions in their stride and just carried on at speed. If your wipers can't clear the windscreen of water fast enough and you can't see the surface of the road, do you think it might be wise to slow down and perhaps contemplate stopping until you can see? Evidently, the answer to that is 'no'.

I've only got wetter once, which was my first ever commute into central London several years ago. Well, it was a test commute, also on a Sunday afternoon. Baptism of fire – well – rain. I suppose soggily apt.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 09 July, 2012, 12:57:51 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 06 July, 2012, 11:26:42 am
Quote from: citoyen on 06 July, 2012, 11:19:37 am
I don't hit pedestrians as a matter of principle, not even when it's their fault.

d.

I'd like to think zigzag is just as good at that as the rest of us generally are. That's not too kind an interpretation, I hope you'll agree?

On the other hand, every once in a rare while, circumstances cause us to be unable to correct for the pedestrian's error, and/or we make one ourselves as well. I've had one very minor and very low speed bump with two pedestrians at the same time. No injury to them or to myself, and pretty much a non-incident. I'm quite happy with that in 40,000 odd London miles, and I hope I can carry on to do as well in the next years. ISTR I've had two additional minor close calls, also at low speed but without impact.

I hit one some years back as well.

I was riding along a pavement side (in the road) cycle path. I could see her up ahead. She started running and then turned 90 degrees into the traffic without looking at all literally as I came up behind her. I was filtering, so going pretty slowly, but still hit her pretty hard. I ended up with a really badly bruised ear and shoulder. She ended up face-down full length in the gutter which was full of rubbish and mud because it had been raining pretty hard earlier.
She got up, burbled something about being late for an interview and then just ran off.
I had to straighten the front wheel and put the chain back on before I could do anything. The cars in the traffic jam hadn't moved the whole time and the guy alongside me commented on my athletic dismount. I had apparently leapt over the front of the bike through braking so hard and actually shoulder charged her to ground and landed on my feet.

Could I have been going more slowly? Not much to be honest. I braked really hard and went over the bars in panic, but there was nowhere to go. Sometimes it really is their fault.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 09 July, 2012, 09:41:27 pm
Chain's slipping. It really bugs me cos when it happens the gear changes. Is 3k about right for a new chain?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 09 July, 2012, 10:54:30 pm
Yup. That would be about what I do on a chain. There or thereabouts. A bit more than one a year at 3000 miles a year.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 09 July, 2012, 11:43:41 pm
Highlight of my ride home this evening: seeing two baby owls.

TWO FRICKING BABY OWLS!

JUST HOPPING ABOUT LOOKING UNBELIEVABLY CUTE!

OMFG!!!!!!!

They were in the road ahead of me, and as I approached, they turned to give me a brief quizzical look before flying off.

Completely made my day.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 09 July, 2012, 11:45:10 pm
You lucky thing!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 10 July, 2012, 12:04:28 am
I KNOW!!!!!!!!  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 10 July, 2012, 06:30:51 am
Rolling down a reasonably fast hill last night I realised the leaves I was about to whoosh past were in fact a baby bunny  :o Cue braking and evasion as didn't know which way the bunny would zag. Luckily it didn't move an inch, just sat there quivering. Also I didn't evade so hard as to off myself.

I did go the long way so as to get me over 2000 miles for the year but when I got home I found I was only at 1917 miles before yesterday's commute not 1970 like I'd remembered. Oh well, only a couple commutes to go still  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 10 July, 2012, 07:28:12 am
Quote from: citoyen on 09 July, 2012, 11:43:41 pm
Highlight of my ride home this evening: seeing two baby owls.

TWO FRICKING BABY OWLS!

JUST HOPPING ABOUT LOOKING UNBELIEVABLY CUTE!

OMFG!!!!!!!

They were in the road ahead of me, and as I approached, they turned to give me a brief quizzical look before flying off.

Completely made my day.

d.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C5xpPKktQ0w
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 July, 2012, 07:40:04 am
Owls?  Never put a blanket on one (unless you're babysitting).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UxVec_zCC80&feature=related
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 10 July, 2012, 07:52:44 am
What a cracking ride, really enjoyed chasing down one of those mowers that cut playing fields and on a stretch that I don't usually like since the surface is very draggy.

Average for the morning 19.3mph, pretty good considering I got stuck at every set of lights after I got into Altrincham.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 10 July, 2012, 08:19:55 am
Riding along the A38 at about 6.15 AM I was overtaken by another cyclist! My excuse is it was downhill and I was riding fixed.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 10 July, 2012, 01:03:09 pm
High profile unclipping fail outside Oval Tube.  Stifled giggling from the 15 or so cyclists massed behind the poor bugger.  Strangely, despite everyone else being bunched quite closely together, this dude had about 6 feet either side of him to allow an uninterrupted fall.  First recorded case of collective spidey sense?

Poor bloke!  If you're reading this, heal up fast
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 10 July, 2012, 01:51:29 pm
I frightened a rabbit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil on 10 July, 2012, 04:21:30 pm
On my way back yesterday there was an ambulance, a police car, a bicycle and an Addison Lee cab all pulled up outside Adelaide House.  The cyclist had a dressing on her arm but otherwise looked OK and was talking to the police.  The AL driver was checking his bumper for scratches.  Looked like a pretty clear left hook. 

The cycle lane there really is unbelievably poorly placed, since most of the HGV traffic going that way turns left onto London Bridge without indicating and most of the cycle traffic is going straight on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 11 July, 2012, 12:46:52 pm
A ride of two halves this morning, as soon as I got into town someone switched the rain on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 11 July, 2012, 12:59:33 pm
Quote from: Si_Co on 11 July, 2012, 12:46:52 pm
A ride of two halves this morning, as soon as I got into town someone switched the rain on.

The same person keeps doing that as soon as I get the bike out!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 11 July, 2012, 01:38:07 pm
When I left Croydon it was dry and sunny.  It was the same when I got to South Ken.  Unfortunately for about ten minutes, right in the middle, at almost the same spot I got soaked on Sunday, the skies opened.  It wasn't quite the utterly gobsmackingly heavy downfall that I got caught in at the weekend, but it soaked my clothes through in a few minutes.

My cycling clothes is now draped over various servers, but it's hard to get soaked through shoes entirely dry. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 11 July, 2012, 04:54:49 pm
Spits and spots as I left, then the heavens opened at about 4.14, a deluge, it was biblical, I passed a paramedic on her bike hiding under a tree and gestured at my soaked clothes "Who do I sue?!" which made her laugh, then got home and dirty great balls of ice started bouncing off the road and my head.  It's still coming down now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 11 July, 2012, 08:52:06 pm
Bit of commuter racing again tonight.
A chap went past me while I was waiting at a T junction just outside of work.  He was going well & took a big effort for about 2 miles just to catch up, so when I did I sat on his wheel for a bit of a breather & then got on the front & gave it some welly.  Fortunately he was gone when I took my right turn, either dropped or he'd turned off at an earlier turning, I wasn't looking back.  Glad he had cause I was knackered & had blown my legs up in the 1st 5miles of a 20mile commute  :demon:
Fair play to the bloke, he was pretty quick, riding a cannondale & wearing a cyclists fighting cancer jersey  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 11 July, 2012, 08:53:14 pm
Well rode to work in the dry and throughout the day it alternated between downpour and sunny. As it is I had a dry ride home too but it was a perfect headwind most of the way and strong too. Very tired legs.

Still, it didn't take as long as it felt like  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 11 July, 2012, 10:06:40 pm
Finally under 2hr riding time for 36mile round trip to Reading  :thumbsup:  Was late back to the office after a meeting this evening and racing the daylight home....  Missed all the showers  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 11 July, 2012, 11:01:02 pm
Side banded by a van this morning. Drenched this evening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 12 July, 2012, 12:01:47 am
More or less dry on the way home (biblical deluge had finished before I left), until while going down hill stream on an over flowing road, got overtaken by a car, which managed to put most over the flood water over me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Speshact on 12 July, 2012, 12:16:31 am
Quote from: citoyen on 09 July, 2012, 11:43:41 pm
Highlight of my ride home this evening: seeing two baby owls.

TWO FRICKING BABY OWLS!

JUST HOPPING ABOUT LOOKING UNBELIEVABLY CUTE!


There were gorgeous fluffy cotton wool baby owls in Kensington Gdns a few months ago.  A twitcher told me they're called owlets.

You can't make owlets without breaking eggs.

IGMC
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 12 July, 2012, 08:34:22 pm
Wet.

Which I am noticing is becoming a theme. Fortunately, I don't much mind if I'm on the way home, and puddle splooshing is fun for those of us who have yet to mature mentally. I did conquer Tooting Bec Common. Route 5 is still shrouded in mystery, with the divergence of paths. One plunges into the wilds, the other continues along the road, whereupon it peters out. Perhaps the dark heart of Tooting Bec Common genuinely was still unexplored when they put in route 5 and they were waiting for a suitably jaded colonist to crack the route to the mythical golden city of – erm – Streatham. Anyway, I forged on, possibly breaking a No Cycling prohibition to get under the tracks and find and rejoin the route to Norbury. My experiments to find a gentle climb up the rear (madam!) of Beulah Hill, I fear are destined to failure, owing to the fact that it's a BFOH (big fuck off hill). Anyway, having encountered two hunky Dorset faggots at lunchtime, I needed the exercise.

All good fun, only slightly tempered by the estuarine whine I encountered at the top of the hill. I was waiting behind a pickup truck to turn right onto Beulah Hill, when a sports car pulled up behind me. Hands up, I admit my presence in the roadway may have held up the car for five entire seconds. When she of the whine finally gets beside me, down comes the window. "In her way," I apparently was. Instead of telling her that I feared the peroxide had bleached her brain, I opted for gratuitous courtesy, which I think may have sadly wound her up more. She finally zipped across the junction hammering her horn like a toddler in need of Ritalin. My dear, all you have in your petty little life is anger and frustration, like an untreatable cancer on your soul.

The whoosh down South Norwood Hill was made unnecessarily interesting by a car that suddenly decided to swoop across into my lane from the opposite side. It's not good to find yourself playing chicken with an oncoming car when speeding down a very steep hill in the wet. Fortunately she was pulling to halt. I guess from the mobile jammed between head and neck, this was her interpretation of safely using a phone when driving.

Anyway, I think I may be mouldering. Need to find another LCN route to get lost on.

EDIT: oh, fellow cyclists – you live in Britain. Get some bloody mudguards.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 13 July, 2012, 12:24:15 am
Worst summer ever.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 13 July, 2012, 07:16:27 am
Two cabbies out of their cabs and nearly coming to blows in Northumberland Avenue. One had stopped to turn right and the other had been so close behind that he was unable to veer left (into a wide bit of road) to pass him. For some reason, rear cabbie seemed to think this was front cabbie's fault. 

Mind you, a minute earlier same cabbie had been beeping angrily at a broken down bus in Trafalgar Square.

Oh, and it was WET. And my shoes still are :-(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 13 July, 2012, 11:04:03 am
After this morning's commute, I think I now have the complete set.

In my 6(?) years of cycle-commuting, I've been knocked off my bike and seen the aftermath of a few crashes.  Today I saw the cyclist in front of me left-hooked by a mini-cab (not indicating, of course).  The cyclist was bruised, but not seriously injured; the driver was more concerned about the damage to his vehicle.  Won't go into further detail here, but will say a few more things.  Although it was out of their jurisdiction, 'thank you' to the two BTP PCSOs who strolled over from Mile End station to lend a hand.  I'm also grateful to the two WPCs who I was able to flag down while they were driving by - if it wasn't for them we might still be standing there waiting for someone to turn up in response to the phone call (not 999 - long story).

The police took my statement and the cyclist has my details as well.  If anyone here asks for specifics they probably won't get an answer until this matter is 'resolved'.


On a tangent, I know this may damage by chap credentials and end up with me classified as a cad and a bounder, but... Women in uniform?  Yes, please!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 July, 2012, 11:11:41 am
Glad you were there to help, and that there is a chance the cyclist may get a reasonable outcome.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 13 July, 2012, 11:38:22 am
There's a chap I see occasionally in the evening riding up the A21 towards Bromley - full Garmin kit, heavily tattooed arms, blue Trek Madone. Very fast.

I saw him this morning when he whizzed past me outside Victoria station. Did a slight double take but it's easy to recognise someone with such a distinctive look, even when he's in the wrong part of town.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 13 July, 2012, 12:00:11 pm
I'm struggling to walk in a straight line - dizziness. Been like that since I got up, it ain't that unusual for me, something wrong in my neck and been like that since I was 18.

Anyway, despite being pedestrianally-challenged, I had no problems riding my bike. Had to lean on it or a wall when I got off it tho' (which is sounding awfully 'Third Policeman')
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 13 July, 2012, 02:24:53 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 13 July, 2012, 12:00:11 pm
Anyway, despite being pedestrianally-challenged, I had no problems riding my bike.

I've noticed that on the various occasions my ears have been acting up.  I think when balancing on a bike all the feedback is through the eyes and handlebars rather than the vestibular system, so you can carry on as normal (until you stop).

Even more interestingly, barakta doesn't get her usual motion-dizziness-exhaustion thing that she gets from walking when riding the trike.  I suppose that boils down to wheels being cognitively easier to manage than balancing on feet and legs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 13 July, 2012, 02:46:42 pm
Gyroscope effect, innit. #madeupscience
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 13 July, 2012, 03:54:34 pm
POETs day today, lovely ride home home, made all the better by a wagon driver who waited patiently behind for a good few minutes, then came alongside and complimented me on speed up the "hill", actually just a little ramp up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 13 July, 2012, 04:31:35 pm
Quote from: Kim on 13 July, 2012, 02:24:53 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 13 July, 2012, 12:00:11 pm
Anyway, despite being pedestrianally-challenged, I had no problems riding my bike.

I've noticed that on the various occasions my ears have been acting up.  I think when balancing on a bike all the feedback is through the eyes and handlebars rather than the vestibular system, so you can carry on as normal (until you stop).

Even more interestingly, barakta doesn't get her usual motion-dizziness-exhaustion thing that she gets from walking when riding the trike.  I suppose that boils down to wheels being cognitively easier to manage than balancing on feet and legs.

It is indeed in the eyes. You can't ride a bicycle without seeing your horizon, just as you can't fly a plane without the horizon. Even if it's an artificial one.

Hope you're feeling better mrcharly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 13 July, 2012, 04:36:14 pm
nope, currently having to to check I don't accidentally headbutt the screen, head feels like it is swaying so much.

I'll be fine once I'm on 't bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 13 July, 2012, 07:02:38 pm
Record breaking run this morning, courtesy of getting first prize in the traffic light raffle, was cruelly cut short a few k from the end, when I chanced upon a slight collision (no injuries) between two hatchbacks on the A23. They were locked together and blocking the southbound lane.  I don't usually help in such situations, when I'm cycling, but no other bugger was. Just a gert queueueue of numpties stuck in their tin boxes not moving. 

I crossed the road to give a hand. One car had been imobilised by its, err, imobiliser and was stopping the other one from being moved. I and driver pushed it out of the way, while his granddaughter jibbled the hand brake.  Once that was done we could clear the carriageway and set the queueueue free, who of course thanked me effusively and rained rose petals upon my head. Or possibly just zoomed past without pause so I couldn't get back to my bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 13 July, 2012, 07:21:08 pm
Four incidents (albeit minor and probably not even that to Nodnolers) within about half a mile this morning. I'll concede one was half my fault but only half. Was muttering and swearing but that and the tailwind made for a fast for me commute. 16mph average when I hit Bexhill and only just under 15 by the time I'd climbed the long slow hill to work.  :thumbsup:

Left work half an hour late which is just superb for a Friday  :demon: and had a fair old headwind. But again I found it didn't take as long as I expected. Maybe, just maybe, I'm finally getting a bit better at this riding into the wind lark.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 13 July, 2012, 10:28:59 pm
Some scrote removed one of my front wheel nuts today. Didn't realise until I was on the way home and noticed the wheel wasn't behaving. Irritating, as the rest of the ride home was done under conditions of caution, but on the bright side I presume that the little scrote was interrupted while trying to take the whole wheel :-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 14 July, 2012, 12:03:00 am
That's terrible Redlight. Some people aren't worth the oxygen.

Did you still ride on the wheel? I'd be nervous about that to say the least. Cos it's hard to break the habit of popping the front wheel over bumps and potholes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 14 July, 2012, 06:25:12 am
Ooh, horrible!  Glad you noticed it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 14 July, 2012, 07:47:18 am
Quote from: Ashaman42 on 14 July, 2012, 12:03:00 am
That's terrible Redlight. Some people aren't worth the oxygen.

Did you still ride on the wheel? I'd be nervous about that to say the least. Cos it's hard to break the habit of popping the front wheel over bumps and potholes.

I did carry on as it was almost as far back to work as it was to home - but very gingerly, trying to avoid using the brake, and I kept stopping to make sure the remaining bolt was still tight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 14 July, 2012, 10:18:10 am
Ah, being used to QRs I didn't realise the two nuts were independent, I assumed they both pulled in together on the axle/spindle.

You learn something everyday eh?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 16 July, 2012, 09:29:18 am
This morning, the traffic was incredibly bad, bad as ever I have seen it and then some worse. Bumper to bumper unmoving from Bow Road almost back to the flyover - no doubt it will have stretched back to Stratford in very short order. As I sailed past, I wondered, was this a vision of Olympic chaos to come? had some olympian road directive been dropped into place, leaving drivers to contemplate their folly, seething and simmering? One mile, two miles, almost three miles before I discovered that one traffic light at Aldgate (by Brick Lane) was stuck on red. I almost had sympathy for the drivers..... (actually, I did for those who really need to use their cars)

Edit: google maps traffic backs up my prediction http://goo.gl/maps/NEFE
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 16 July, 2012, 10:00:08 pm
Quote from: Ashaman42 on 14 July, 2012, 10:18:10 am
Ah, being used to QRs I didn't realise the two nuts were independent, I assumed they both pulled in together on the axle/spindle.

You learn something everyday eh?

Yup. I'm not sure why it isn't a QR - presumably some other weird fixie thing. But in this case it was useful as I was able to avoid using the brake most of the time so there was very little sideways pressure on the wheel.  Challenge now is to find a replacement as it appears to be an unusually small nut!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 16 July, 2012, 10:16:36 pm
Red Cliff Shrub, Putney / Chelsea ish? Very fine track-standing, if I may say so  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rr on 16 July, 2012, 11:52:40 pm
Epic Boris Bike fail.
Train late so I decided to bike rather than walk from Liverpool Street to South bank.
Terrible gears on the bike, delayed changes and strange neutral. Got there couldn't find the racks,eventually found them - full - all of the racks south of the river, had to go back over the river to find a rack. Would have been quicker to walk.
Why is there no straight on filter for bikes at the city end of Southwark Bridge?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 July, 2012, 05:09:46 am
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 16 July, 2012, 10:16:36 pm
Red Cliff Shrub, Putney / Chelsea ish? Very fine track-standing, if I may say so  :)

ChrisL? 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 17 July, 2012, 08:44:15 am
Quote from: clarion on 17 July, 2012, 05:09:46 am
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 16 July, 2012, 10:16:36 pm
Red Cliff Shrub, Putney / Chelsea ish? Very fine track-standing, if I may say so  :)

ChrisL? 
Hondootedly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 17 July, 2012, 09:25:05 am
Bloke drove at me down a narrow street with parked cars. I know some forummers are in favour of a game of chicken at this stage but I seldom have the inclination so I bailed into the parked cars, shouting ‘w****r’ as I did so. I was gratified to see he had his window open.

Drivers are getting worse on narrow streets. Yesterday there was a woman with a Christiana-style trike with a child in it, on a narrow one-way street that I have linked to before on here. I thought that, despite the fact that she was hugging the kerb, the van driver behind her might stay behind her, because there was even less room than there is with a normal bike. Nope, he still managed to squeeze past her, somehow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 17 July, 2012, 09:26:45 am
On way home last night spotted someone by side of road, wheel off bike. Stopped to ask if they needed help.
Yup, they did alright - just a simple puncture, but really cheap tyres had defeated their torx 'extra strong' tyre lever. I produced 6 levers from my bag but it still took the two of us to get the tyre off. Very nice to feel I could help someone out.

The nice feeling must have put springs into my legs or something, because even though I was stopped for nearly 10 minutes, the journey home still only took 1hr 32min overall and I cranked it right back for the last 3km. Realised I was hammering it a bit when I swept past someone near Tadcaster, looked down and saw I was doing 34kph - a more normal speed on that bit for me is 29kph.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 17 July, 2012, 11:49:46 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 17 July, 2012, 09:25:05 am
Bloke drove at me down a narrow street with parked cars. I know some forummers are in favour of a game of chicken at this stage but I seldom have the inclination so I bailed into the parked cars, shouting ‘w****r’ as I did so. I was gratified to see he had his window open.

Drivers are getting worse on narrow streets. Yesterday there was a woman with a Christiana-style trike with a child in it, on a narrow one-way street that I have linked to before on here. I thought that, despite the fact that she was hugging the kerb, the van driver behind her might stay behind her, because there was even less room than there is with a normal bike. Nope, he still managed to squeeze past her, somehow.

As I do a lot of cycling down similar streets, I've taken to noting how often drivers are courteous in such situations. The standard appears to be continue towards the cyclist at full speed (20 mph limit, ho!) while jigging over a few centimeters. Some don't bother with the few centimeters and zoom on, straight as an arrow, evidently assuming that cyclists are two-dimensional objects. Anyway, I calculate about 1-in-10 actually pull into a gap and let me through, about 2/10 make no account, and the rest do the minor jig while continuing at the same speed.

From behind, it's a case of hanging on my back wheel, foot twitching the accelerator, looking for the tiniest gap.

The irony is that these roads I cycle down are bracketed by main roads (and some of the impatience is evidently because they're using them as rat-runs – and for the record, having done both routes in the car, it's quicker to use the main roads and just wait for a few minutes at the lights) and even if a car gets past me, I'll usually meet it again at the junction.

It's not a cycle-specific phenomenon – I do a lot of country walking which periodically involves rural roads. Walking towards traffic on these roads involves the same three outcomes, in similar proportions. The go-wide and slow-down (1/10), the jig at speed (7/10), and the zoom past with a centimetre of clearance (2/10). Had one at the weekend, near Rye, very little traffic – posh Mercedes, horse-faced lady driver bellowing a Doppler-shifted "get off the road' as she hooned past at silly speed on wet roads.

I reckon it's partly that these people are bullies, and like all bullies, only act when they believe they do so without consequence to themselves, and partly due to ignorance. So many people don't walk or cycle, all they have is the car. They have no concept of what it's like to be vulnerable and on the road and be passed closely by several tonnes of speeding metal.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 17 July, 2012, 12:34:31 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 17 July, 2012, 09:25:05 am
Bloke drove at me down a narrow street with parked cars. I know some forummers are in favour of a game of chicken at this stage but I seldom have the inclination so I bailed into the parked cars, shouting ‘w****r’ as I did so. I was gratified to see he had his window open.

I had one of those last year. I went for the playing chicken approach and he really didn't like it, roared personal abuse at me for a long time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 17 July, 2012, 12:37:41 pm
I think most drivers like have every idea of how intimidating they are to a vulnerable cyclist. They delight in it and use it to their best advantage.  *This* is why I use cameras.

I feel forced to play chicken even though I don't want to. I'd prefer no conflict, so I'll pull left if it's safe to do so, or if it's the polite thing in that situation, but otherwise I'm not having a high speed close pass, so I'll make them come to a near halt before allowing a pass. My safety comes before their convenience. That said, I'll make quite a bit of effort to help other people's convenience too, for them, for karma and for my own sense of self-worth.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 17 July, 2012, 12:40:08 pm
I have commuted by bike today for the first time since 22nd June.   :thumbsup:

S
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 17 July, 2012, 01:09:53 pm
Quote from: hatler on 17 July, 2012, 08:44:15 am
Quote from: clarion on 17 July, 2012, 05:09:46 am
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 16 July, 2012, 10:16:36 pm
Red Cliff Shrub, Putney / Chelsea ish? Very fine track-standing, if I may say so  :)

ChrisL? 
Hondootedly.

Not me!  My Shrubb's up on ramps at the mo waiting for my budget to catch up with my ambitions.

One to watch out for on CS7: a black Cliff Shrubb fixie.  Part of the seat tube is replaced with the remainder of a front fork, thus allowing the front part of the rear wheel to sit between the two legs of the fork.  Clever chap that Shrubb.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 17 July, 2012, 01:58:37 pm
Quote from: ian on 17 July, 2012, 11:49:46 am

It's not a cycle-specific phenomenon – I do a lot of country walking which periodically involves rural roads. Walking towards traffic on these roads involves the same three outcomes, in similar proportions. The go-wide and slow-down (1/10), the jig at speed (7/10), and the zoom past with a centimetre of clearance (2/10). Had one at the weekend, near Rye, very little traffic – posh Mercedes, horse-faced lady driver bellowing a Doppler-shifted "get off the road' as she hooned past at silly speed on wet roads.

I reckon it's partly that these people are bullies, and like all bullies, only act when they believe they do so without consequence to themselves, and partly due to ignorance. So many people don't walk or cycle, all they have is the car. They have no concept of what it's like to be vulnerable and on the road and be passed closely by several tonnes of speeding metal.

I know I should force them to slow down, but when they’re speeding towards me I find it hard to hold my nerve. And there are some lunatics in Sarf London who’s probably justify it with ‘She deserved it, she was in the middle of the road!’…

Recently we took ourselves on a walking holiday to Norfolk and also had to walk on some rural roads to join up some longer sections of footpath. Drivers were actually fairly considerate compared to those in London, but I was much more submissive than I would have been on a bike, because I was with the dog who isn’t used to roads without pavements – if there wasn’t a decent verge to jump on I’d stand with her safely behind my legs until the car had passed. There were a few scary bends where we had to walk wide to make sure they’d see us before they came flying round at speed, though. They were quite stressful stretches.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 17 July, 2012, 02:09:43 pm
Out to a site in Stoke Poges - so a 55km round trip today.  It was fabulous to ride in decent weather for the first time in weeks - I even enjoyed the Uxbridge Road section the weather was that unusual.

I then thought I was going to have to hop up to Hampstead, so I thought I might be on for about 75-80km of commuting today, but business partner offered to cover the meeting up in Hampstead so I could focus on writing a boring fee proposal instead.

Scarily, that 55km is the longest I have ridden since the Mille Alba - life and work have really got in the way of distance riding.  Thankfully, I've actually been commuting virtually every day since then (whereas I normally work from home), so I actually feel pretty damned fit - and today's ride I felt really strong.

I hope we win the job in Stoke Poges - that'd be a nice commute (as long as the job stays on schedule for completion summer 2013!).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: why1040 on 17 July, 2012, 02:16:47 pm
That'd be where I live marcusjb, so shout if you fancy a cuppa next time!  I'm a (very) slow n steady type cyclist myself, so possibly not good for much company otherwise   ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 17 July, 2012, 02:30:02 pm
It's a lovely part of the world for sure.  I own a business based just up in Beaconsfield - but I don't get out there so much (instead handling a lot of our London work). 

If we get this job, I'll be out there a lot as it is rather a big one - I'll pop in for a cuppa then!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 17 July, 2012, 06:11:21 pm
Seriously wet, like riding through a vertical sea with slots in it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 17 July, 2012, 06:12:19 pm
Proper hot sunshine on the way home, forgot what it felt like!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 17 July, 2012, 06:38:30 pm
Quote from: ian on 17 July, 2012, 11:49:46 am

It's not a cycle-specific phenomenon – I do a lot of country walking which periodically involves rural roads. Walking towards traffic on these roads involves the same three outcomes, in similar proportions. The go-wide and slow-down (1/10), the jig at speed (7/10), and the zoom past with a centimetre of clearance (2/10). Had one at the weekend, near Rye, very little traffic – posh Mercedes, horse-faced lady driver bellowing a Doppler-shifted "get off the road' as she hooned past at silly speed on wet roads.

OK. I'm taking a risk here, but you've prompted me to report similar experiences with women drivers in the country.  I don't do the "Hey, women drivers, eh".  Honest I don't.  But it's becoming so common that I really notice it.
I do a lot of walking around the lanes in West Wales.  Every nearly time I'm skimmed on the side of the road as I walk it seems to be a woman.  1000 yard stare and no acknowledgement at all.
Why is that?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: nicknack on 17 July, 2012, 06:41:17 pm
I avoid the local rural schools at chucking out time for precisely that reason.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Julian on 17 July, 2012, 09:18:58 pm
This is technically on the commute yesterday, and nearly qualifies as a rant.

I have a New! commute which heads down Ealing - Brentford - Isleworth - Hounslow - Feltham, which means that occasionally you come across a motorist who is any one of: polite, respectful, law-abiding or insured, and I am extra cautious especially of the myriad skip lorries round Hounslow.  Even so, for a fine display of total piss ignorance, picture this scene:

I'm cycling along London Road, it's about 8.30am, so reasonably busy.  Ahead of me, facing in the same direction, is a van signalling right into one of the many side roads. 

Coming towards both of us is a fairly steady stream of traffic, and a child of about eight, who is cycling in school uniform, in the cycle lane, on the road.  Kudos to the little chap, I think - no parent nearby and he was in a local primary uniform.  I suppose he could have been ten but he didn't look that old. 

Just behind him, some shit-for-brains in a dark purple car looks up at the van signalling right, doesn't notice the Small riding ahead of her, comes to a halt and flashes her lights to tell the van it's safe to proceed.

The van had got as far as beginning the turn, I'd got as far as heaving on the brakes in order to drop the bike and rush over to the inevitable carnage, when the Small looked up, realised he was about to be mincemeat, and came to an abrupt halt, allowing the van to complete the maneouvre.  Spidey senses clearly beginning young in that one.

He gave the van a signal that is perhaps not approved of in his playground (he'll go far) but really he should have aimed it at the dizzy twat in the purple car who had continued blissfully unaware of what she'd just nearly caused.  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 17 July, 2012, 09:25:21 pm
A somewhat side tracked ride home due to dodging roads closed due to the Olympic Torch passing through. Some roads I knew about and some were a surprise but didn't slow me down too much or add much extra distance.

Lots of bugglies in the air (and then my eyes, hair, lungs, nose...) and a bit of a headwind but not as strong as expected.

Seems a shame to drive into work tomorrow but I need to get caught up so early start for me it is.  :'(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 17 July, 2012, 09:32:45 pm
Quote from: Julian on 17 July, 2012, 09:18:58 pm
This is technically on the commute yesterday, and nearly qualifies as a rant.

[...]

Completely non-commute related, and happened last week, but probably worth mentioning for karmic balance purposes:

In the reverse version of the above scenario I was roller-coastering my way up the Alcester Road, when oblivious (or perhaps simply unaware of the effect of gravity) WVM in the opposite lane stops to flash school run BMW mum out from a side road.  She edges halfway out, to the point where she can see me around the car that just passed (which hadn't got very far on account of a forming queue), realises that I'm decelerating rapidly because of the hill and am therefore In The Way, and stops, giving me an"it's okay, carry on" gesture.

Good to see that at least some of them are paying attention.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 19 July, 2012, 07:50:27 am
What is it with motons and the rain? Blind bend & blind crest overtakes, increased speeds, RLJ's. Anyone would think it's them getting wet. Cracking tailwind though
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 19 July, 2012, 08:33:05 am
They're digging up the gas mains on Thorpe Road, there are temporary traffic lights, last night the traffic was stationary between the Town House Hotel and railway station, as I filtered on the right past maybe 300 vehicles.

(http://www.italymag.co.uk/sites/mainfiles/imagecache/story-on-view/the-shard-by-renzo-piano-15.jpeg)

(http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/12/Sigmund_Freud_LIFE.jpg/200px-Sigmund_Freud_LIFE.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 20 July, 2012, 11:25:39 am
Julian

Welcome to the joys of Feltham ........  :sick:

I live on the A315 Staines Road in Bedfont (London Road further along) - do wave if you see a mad lady on a Brompton.

I see quite a lot of cyclists along the main Staines Road/London Road in the morning as I cycle down to Feltham station.

Kudos to the kid riding to school, but I'm not surprised - there are some right numpties around here in cars.  Loads of skip lorries as well, as there is a breakers yard and skip lorry base at Hounslow Heath, also the scrappies on the fixed traveller site on Hounslow Heath.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 20 July, 2012, 11:42:38 am
I had a short diversion this morning whilst another cyclist and I helped two ladies to catch a dog loose in the traffic along Fulham Road. Fortunately he was captured safely before coming to any harm and hopefully he'll be back home by now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 20 July, 2012, 12:19:19 pm
Had a real heart in mouth moment today on the way in. I was slowing down for a red light some way ahead, where there was already one cyclist waiting, when I was overtaken unpleasantly closely by a hatchback whose driver had his mobile phone propped on the steering wheel and was apparently texting. As he approached the lights he was still veering to the left and seemed to be unaware of the red light ahead.  I thought he was going to plough into the waiting cyclist. He must have glanced up at the last minute as he executed a very sudden swerve to the right and slammed on the brakes.

The other cyclist was completely unaware of all of this until I caught him up. Just shows how exposed we are, no matter how careful or law-abdiding we are.

Take care out there :-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 20 July, 2012, 12:27:25 pm
The sad thing is of course, even if he'd ploughed into the cyclist, he (the driver) would have probably got away with a small fine and perhaps a driving course  ::-) :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 20 July, 2012, 12:36:35 pm
Yesterday I saw a bloke cycling along the main road, in plenty of traffic, no-handed, texting.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 20 July, 2012, 01:32:16 pm
Not a work commute, but a rather fast paced bimble to a Scout meeting about 8 miles or so.

Rolling along a flattish section to the roundabout outside heartlands hospital, probably 15mph or so having just climbed up the hill from my house.

Pillock on a blue racing bike pops off the curb and rolls right in front of me, he's going considerably slower than me causing some breaking and muttering under breath whilst trying to avoid the car I've just been pushed sideways into.  Once the cars gone I spin past fairly effortlessly and continue up to the roundabout, it's clear, it's clear in front of me I can carry on.

No

Wait

What's that panting noise.

Oh it's racer boy stood up overtaking, only to pull in front of me and slow down.

Arrrrrrrgggggggghhhhhhhhhh.

Quickly dodge the blue bike and wizz round the roundabout, he couldn't keep up on the down hill.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 20 July, 2012, 01:53:16 pm
I saw a fella riding along with his umbrella up.  Wouldn't be notable if I hadn't seen the same thing yesterday.  Is this a new module on the bikeability course?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 20 July, 2012, 02:48:00 pm
My daughter has an umbrella holder we bought in China fitted to the handlebars of her Dutch style bike. It's just the thing for pootling along with in the rain - though can be a bit of a b... when you've got a golf umbrella up and its windy. The only thing preventing the wider adoption of them over in the UK is the poor quality of umbrellas available - they tend to blow inside out . Headwinds can be a bit of a sod though too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 20 July, 2012, 04:09:23 pm
^^ bet tail winds are fun though
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 20 July, 2012, 04:21:17 pm
Quote from: alexb on 20 July, 2012, 11:42:38 am
I had a short diversion this morning whilst another cyclist and I helped two ladies to catch a dog loose in the traffic along Fulham Road. Fortunately he was captured safely before coming to any harm and hopefully he'll be back home by now.

Aha! Small world. I was sitting having a pre-work coffee in the cafe just a couple of doors along. I was wondering what had happened; thought maybe the dog's lead had broken as I think I saw 2 socks being donated to make a new one. Good work  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tigerrr on 20 July, 2012, 04:37:48 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 19 July, 2012, 08:33:05 am
They're digging up the gas mains on Thorpe Road, there are temporary traffic lights, last night the traffic was stationary between the Town House Hotel and railway station, as I filtered on the right past maybe 300 vehicles.

(http://www.italymag.co.uk/sites/mainfiles/imagecache/story-on-view/the-shard-by-renzo-piano-15.jpeg)

(http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/12/Sigmund_Freud_LIFE.jpg/200px-Sigmund_Freud_LIFE.jpg)

I wonder if Freud knew that his cigar was a penis substitute, the constant sucking of which revealed more about him than perhaps he might have wished in those days?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 22 July, 2012, 12:52:11 am
Collided with an idiot on a folding bike going the wrong way down the cycle lane in High Road Leytonstone on Friday while going back home from work.
No major body damage as a result, a bit of skin missing on my thumb and bruised arms, a slightly buckled wheel, and out of alighment brake lever.... one of them must have absorbed some of the shock. Might change the handlebars just in case.
The guy wasn't willing to cooperate once he found out his bike was ok so he decided to bugger off, and I gave chase. He then played dumb and pretended he could not speak english so could not spell his name. The most I got from him was his number and a guess at his name after persisting for a long time. No address given.
Clearly not just a danger to himself, and didn't want to assume responsibility for his actions.
All captured on video there: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UjI-FXDemDg

Arno.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 22 July, 2012, 07:25:26 am
What a prize tosser.  Glad you're OK but it's bad that you're almost certainly going to have to pick up the bill for his idiocy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 July, 2012, 07:46:13 am
Bloody hell, Arno.  What a pillock.

I'm glad you're not more seriously hurt.

I get very annoyed by these contraflow idiots, and I've been lucky enough to be able to avoid them in the past, though I have occasionally had to swerve out, which could have been more serious.

GWS.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 22 July, 2012, 09:08:44 am
Admire your calm Arno, I'd have been screaming blue murder when he decided to bugger off
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 22 July, 2012, 09:50:45 am
That's unbelievable muppetry. Hang on a second - I do believe it. Glad you're OK
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 22 July, 2012, 11:09:53 am
Quote from: Arno on 22 July, 2012, 12:52:11 am

All captured on video there: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UjI-FXDemDg

Arno.
I bet if you posted that video on twitter someone would identify him for you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 22 July, 2012, 12:16:17 pm
Quote from: Arno on 22 July, 2012, 12:52:11 am
Collided with an idiot on a folding bike

What a complete tosser.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 22 July, 2012, 01:42:38 pm
Not to diminish your awful experience for one moment, but thank got that idiot isn't behind the wheel of a car. 

On second thoughts he was probably on his way to his skip lorry driving job.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 22 July, 2012, 04:53:43 pm
You can tell his character when he first smirks then checks his bike before even asking anything. Looks like a Sheepwalk regular to me, that pub's run by the Murphya, there are some unpleasant characters in there. One regular had a huge chopping scar in the side of his head. Nice to see the High Road again!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 23 July, 2012, 10:25:54 am
Well, that was interesting.

My current route involves back roads to Canning Town.  Noticed a few more cars than usual, and many of them travelling at silly speeds.  What was the Canning Town roundabout is now utter chaos.  Well, not chaos, just barely moving traffic.  Diverted down to CS3 running along the A13.  This was fine until I hit all the changes resulting in the removal of the roundabout: CS3 seems to disappear but no signs pointing the way, some of CS3 still ripped up and unrideable and one crosses the road well south of where one used to.

Got back on the road along the flyover.  Noticed again that Olympic buses were avoiding the bus lane.  Decided I'd get back on CS3 (it's not too bad west of Canning Town).  My usual route is down Leamouth Road, across the pedestrian crossing to Sorrell Lane contra-flow then pick up CS3 from there (map (http://goo.gl/maps/xxwy)).  {I think the official CS3 route carries along the A13 to the west of Leamouth, across multiple traffic islands, then down to Oregano drive.} Down Leamouth, right through the break in the wall for the crossing... then notice the opposite side of the road has barriers across it - this pedestrian crossing has been taken out of operation.  I improvised.

Situation normal from there until one hits the City.  Around the Tower it seems that nearly all turns have been banned.  Oddly, Byward Street / Tower Hill were pretty empty.

I am so glad I have only 2.5 commutes left.  I head in to town very early Thursday, then will be heading against the flow of traffic.  Good luck to those still in town.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 23 July, 2012, 11:53:00 am
On the A57 this morning shouted at a woman overtaking me for starting to drift in towards me, at the lights 30 yards down the road she got out wondered round the car inspecting it, and said something to me, the only bit of which I could make out was "it's madness".

After getting back  in the car she then tried to drive off  with the handbrake on.

I was left totally confused.

The only conclusion I could come to was that she thought she'd hit me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 23 July, 2012, 11:55:39 am
I witnessed the first signs of the Tour effect this morning - hundreds of people lining the streets of Bromley to cheer me on as I cycled up the High Street. Magic.

Shame some twat in a white tracksuit with an oversized Zippo lighter had to spoil it all by running down the middle of the road like a loon.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 23 July, 2012, 09:06:54 pm
I see, the crap weather finally pisses off and instead we get a gajillion flying ants. Superb.

Oh well, was nice to ride in the sun with no wind to speak off. Well, not externally anyway. Had rather a tummy ache this morning which made the ride in interesting.

Thanks to the chap who stopped to check I was ok on the way home crouched by my bike looking confused. Had a funny noise coming from the front end of the bike and was trying to work out what it was. Memories of people here having bars or forks collapse.

Couldn't work it out by the road, there was a bit of tape holding the dynamo wire on that was loose but didn't seem long enough to cause the noise. On checking the mudguard and brake bolts at home I found another bit of tape further up the fork that may have been causing the problem. Have taped it back down but not test ridden to check. Will see how it goes tomorrow.

Must get on and get some prescription safety specs ordered, my normal glasses do not stop flying things at all.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 23 July, 2012, 09:12:32 pm
Quote from: Ashaman42 on 23 July, 2012, 09:06:54 pm
I see, the crap weather finally pisses off and instead we get a gajillion flying ants. Superb.

Yes.  I breathed in a lot more "breakfast" than I wanted this morning.  :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ianrauk on 23 July, 2012, 09:48:57 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 23 July, 2012, 11:55:39 am
I witnessed the first signs of the Tour effect this morning - hundreds of people lining the streets of Bromley to cheer me on as I cycled up the High Street. Magic.

Shame some twat in a white tracksuit with an oversized Zippo lighter had to spoil it all by running down the middle of the road like a loon.

d.

Yup, also saw all this in Bromley on the A21.. along with all the sickening corporate shit that proceeded the torch.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 24 July, 2012, 12:03:24 pm
Gentlemen. And ladies (let's be all inclusive here). Next week I'm expecting to have Olympic-centric posts of:

"Tourist-knocks-me-off-my-bike,-not-looking-where-they're-going" from the London mob.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 24 July, 2012, 12:08:05 pm
Not from me - I'm off work for the next two weeks. Hurrah! Unfortunately, I couldn't take the whole three weeks off, so the week I come back could be interesting. I'm contemplating not bringing the bike into London that week, or use the Brompton if I can get it back in working order in time. And then there are the Paralympics to follow...

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 24 July, 2012, 12:43:09 pm
Quote from: Riggers on 24 July, 2012, 12:03:24 pm
Gentlemen. And ladies (let's be all inclusive here). Next week I'm expecting to have Olympic-centric posts of:

"Tourist-knocks-me-off-my-bike,-not-looking-where-they're-going" from the London mob.

I already work in an incredibly touristy area of London so am resigned to pootling slowly in areas where there are lots of them, so that I can stop quickly. I just assume they're going to hurl themselves in front of me, which they generally do. Having a good backpedal brake is ever so useful. Sometimes one tourist has a bit more sense than the other and will grab their friend's arm; they get a smile and thanks.

Luckily the turns that have been banned round my way are still allowing cycles.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 24 July, 2012, 02:08:11 pm
I hope everyone on this thread saw my warning about the out of town drivers? There are so many driving all sorts of vehicles that just do not know where they are going - do take care!

I have to say that even at 6:30 this morning the traffic was really heavy, more coaches than you could shake a stick at around Stratford. Oddly, more randomly chatty to other cyclists than normal.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 24 July, 2012, 04:22:12 pm
Stopped to let a gaggle of unobservant grannies cross the road. Quiet residential street, didn't want to give them a fright, their collective age was probably in the thousands. While I wait – and the granny caravan hasn't noticed me – minivan-encased mom-n-kids pulls up.

BEEP!

I've successfully managed a lifestyle of minimal thumpage since my school days (just one wannabe mugger, and that was Essex where everyone is practically an extra in some kind of Madmaxian dystopia), but I have to say, had I been on the driver side and the window open, it would have been an attractive prospect. I mean, seriously, you can't wait another few seconds for three OAPs to make it across the road? That's just fucked up. The grannies scatter in apology. If I was them, fuck the apology. I'd go home, get my Spitfire, track down said minivan and strafe it until it and the occupants have more holes than a colander.

Anyway, I hope the driver gets a refractory fungal infection of her nethers that persists for the rest of her natural life.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 24 July, 2012, 04:54:06 pm
I reckon it's a sort of selective blindness caused by the presence of a cyclist.  Everyone knows that cyclists are slow and must be overtaken, and they're even slower when stopped for no reason (the road ahead being invisible due to the presence of the cyclist, but it's bound to be clear, isn't it?).   :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 24 July, 2012, 04:56:05 pm
Quote from: Kim on 24 July, 2012, 04:54:06 pm
(the road ahead being invisible due to the presence of the cyclist, but it's bound to be clear, isn't it?).   :facepalm:

That'll be why I keep getting overtaken by Superman.  You know the one, can obviously see around corners and over high hedges, 'cos they overtake at the most stupid point, whereas if they waited 15 seconds they would have a clear bit of straight road on which to overtake safely....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tigerrr on 24 July, 2012, 05:06:14 pm
Roads full of numpty RLJ cycling commuters today. They are very irritating, especially as I think they regard the RLJ as a legitimate racing manouvre. Its very annoying if one has put real effort in yo overtaking everyone to get to the lights first and then have them ziup past on red. No evidence for this its just my impression. Obviously does not apply to the POB RLJ subgroup either - I am thinking more of the other urban sportsters.

Its all really going to get shitty tomorrow isnt it. Thats when the traffic stops for 6 weeks.

 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 24 July, 2012, 05:09:09 pm
Quote from: Tigerrr on 24 July, 2012, 05:06:14 pm
Roads full of numpty RLJ cycling commuters today.


This in spades, including places where I've only seen one or two cyclists in 12 months on that road, bleedin everywhere today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 24 July, 2012, 05:10:20 pm
Quote from: Tigerrr on 24 July, 2012, 05:06:14 pm
Roads full of numpty RLJ cycling commuters today. They are very irritating, especially as I think they regard the RLJ as a legitimate racing manouvre. Its very annoying if one has put real effort in yo overtaking everyone to get to the lights first and then have them ziup past on red. No evidence for this its just my impression. Obviously does not apply to the POB RLJ subgroup either - I am thinking more of the other urban sportsters.

Its all really going to get shitty tomorrow isnt it. Thats when the traffic stops for 6 weeks.

I'm really not looking forwards to crossing London next week. I doubt that leaving the bike at home and using the Tube will make it any easier, either.  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 24 July, 2012, 05:35:44 pm
CS3 has been very busy this week, with more than the usual number of people with absolutely no regard for lights or other traffic.  Never mind, only 1.5 commutes left...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 24 July, 2012, 05:45:01 pm
Quote from: tiermat on 24 July, 2012, 04:56:05 pm
Quote from: Kim on 24 July, 2012, 04:54:06 pm
(the road ahead being invisible due to the presence of the cyclist, but it's bound to be clear, isn't it?).   :facepalm:

That'll be why I keep getting overtaken by Superman.  You know the one, can obviously see around corners and over high hedges, 'cos they overtake at the most stupid point, whereas if they waited 15 seconds they would have a clear bit of straight road on which to overtake safely....

There's a blind corner here (http://goo.gl/maps/wFRR) on my usual route. It's a even bet that if a car is following me, it will take the dubious opportunity to overtake. It's a downhill in a 20 mph zone (so I'm probably going faster than 20 mph...). Around they'll go, taking a chance that nothing will be coming the other way. Of course, no sooner than are they around the corner, they have to slow right down to make the sharp right onto Selby Road (there used to be a big car-shaped hole in the garden wall of the house there – still on streetview (http://goo.gl/maps/QzrvC) – to illustrate the wonders of a 20 mph zone). Yeah, so the death-defying geniuses overtake me, and then force me to slow down while they can get their tin cans around the next corner. Where there is a nice straight road for safe overtaking (well actually, there's some ineffectual traffic calming which makes a nice slalom for boy races, but that's another story – anyway, there would be plenty of room for a safe overtake).

Oh, and I've noticed a newish phenomenon on my mini-commute to the pool, which features two right turns onto busy roads. I'll stop at the junction, positioned over to the right, in effectively primary position. Both roads are wide enough for left-turning vehicles to proceed unhindered. So, obviously, you'd expect any vehicle behind me also planning to turn right to stay behind me. But oh no, why not pull up at the side of me, indicating right, and blocking the road for anyone planning to turn left? I'm not a person, I'm an obstacle.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 24 July, 2012, 05:51:52 pm
Quote from: Kim on 24 July, 2012, 04:54:06 pm
I reckon it's a sort of selective blindness caused by the presence of a cyclist.  Everyone knows that cyclists are slow and must be overtaken, and they're even slower when stopped for no reason (the road ahead being invisible due to the presence of the cyclist, but it's bound to be clear, isn't it?).   :facepalm:

Just to be clear – she beeped the oldsters and not me. I doubt I was even on her radar. That's what made her so ineffably punchable. I mean, who beeps a granny slowly crossing the road, when did that kind of shit become acceptable? The Luftwaffe tried to bomb my grandmother, so she spent the next four years of her life making bombs. I can only hope some radicalised OAP faction get the driver's number and dedicate themselves so selflessly to the drivers persecution.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 24 July, 2012, 07:21:58 pm
Did my first train in and ride the folder today. A very different experience. As I was in work clothes I tried to find a pace that wouldn't leave me a sweaty mess at the office. Problem is it was so bloody hot I'd have been a hot sweaty mess on the tube so the jury's out there???

Spent more time on CS3 than normal as I'm not used to the bike and route think I'll take my chances on the main road next time. Too many close passes, random stops and people going the wrong way. And that's just the cyclists.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 24 July, 2012, 07:22:10 pm
Did my first train in and ride the folder today. A very different experience. As I was in work clothes I tried to find a pace that wouldn't leave me a sweaty mess at the office. Problem is it was so bloody hot I'd have been a hot sweaty mess on the tube so the jury's out there???

Spent more time on CS3 than normal as I'm not used to the bike and route think I'll take my chances on the main road next time. Too many close passes, random stops and people going the wrong way. And that's just the cyclists.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 24 July, 2012, 07:57:18 pm
Car crash on the way in  :o  & an extra 10miles on the way home in the sunshine for a 43 mile round trip  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 24 July, 2012, 08:02:44 pm
A two-ambulancer on the south side of Westminster Bridge on my rather circuitous route home today. Bikes, rickshaws, people, all looked ok as far as I can see, didn't stop, won't come as a surprise to anyone.

edit: Location now present  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 24 July, 2012, 08:46:16 pm
Glorious sunshine, so home the longish way. Well, I had to, didn’t I?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 24 July, 2012, 09:46:10 pm
Another day of commuting up to hampstead - really enjoying the ride up the hills, sad to see the end of this contract tomorrow.

Hot.

Creaky.

(bottom bracket on way out on fixed)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 24 July, 2012, 10:22:12 pm
Saw a potential Darwin award candidate this evening.

Heading south on the A34, around here:
https://maps.google.co.uk/maps?hl=en&ll=53.142214,-2.247713&spn=0.015793,0.031414&doflg=ptm&mra=mr&t=m&z=16

I'm passed by a blue Chavmobile (something sort of Golf shaped) that was definitely doing in excess of 60mph. Sitting on *top* of the Chavmobile was a Chavpassenger, shirt off, fist in the air. I *hope* he had his lower legs in an open sun roof, but I can't be sure. His arse was definitely planted on the roof.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 24 July, 2012, 10:27:20 pm
Another cyclist rocked up alongside me at early-o'clock on the way in, 10 miles away from work.
We had a chat for a couple of miles, and he turned off towards his home.

This is *very* unusual, and probably constituted a Critical Mass in Fettercairn!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 24 July, 2012, 11:49:05 pm
A bit of silly commuter racing tonight ended up with me setting a PR on Fountain Drive, even though I didn't think I was going that fast. Hurrah!

(Actually, I wasn't going that fast - my time is still well outside the top 10 on Strava - I was just going slightly less slowly than the other bloke.)

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 25 July, 2012, 08:01:25 am
Abuse off a berk inna merc today for doing 26mph in the right hand lane of two lanes in a 30 zone immediately prior to.............turning right 

Fast today average 19.1 for the 12 miles, all came easy, perfect conditions, no wind ideal temps.

and now it's in the right thread
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 25 July, 2012, 08:40:51 am
I think a lot of drivers have taken fright - that and the holidays - traffic was really quite light (and I know I ride before the worst, but the last couple of days have been dire even at 6:30). Going through Stratford high Street, drivers seemed too confused to ride on the inside lane (although they can) because it has a thick white line on the outside, don't suppose that will last. Squillions of coaches. Buddied a new rider from Holborn to Oxford Street ("last time I got lost"  ;D ) all in all, a great day. Let's see how it turns out over the next weeks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 25 July, 2012, 11:33:04 am
Mixed results from my new rear wheel.

On the one hand, it slipped the first time I pulled away from a set of traffic lights, trying to accelerate hard. Tightened up the Allen key. I think I need a bigger one as my Alien actually fell apart (non-destructively) as I tried to apply a lot of force.

On the other hand, despite a few hold ups from learner drivers, buses, etc, it was my fastest commute in ages, which I put down to the 75" gear making cruising at 20mph a lot more comfortable. It also helped to be windless and warm. I also discovered a new coffee van outside work. Apparently they'll be there every day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 25 July, 2012, 11:52:37 am
Yikes, what a commute last night. From Sunday's joy of a sociable and fun commute, to a nightware of tw@ts everywhere. The worst was a small red van left hooking a bus and nearly, so nearly getting taken out, to a minicab driver telling me to "Watch where you're going, c@nt" when I was doing nothing more than staying in my lane on HPC.

Bus video, what an awesome driver:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UDLAnQve8CM
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 25 July, 2012, 12:52:33 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 25 July, 2012, 11:52:37 am
Yikes, what a commute last night. From Sunday's joy of a sociable and fun commute, to a nightware of tw@ts everywhere. The worst was a small red van left hooking a bus and nearly, so nearly getting taken out, to a minicab driver telling me to "Watch where you're going, c@nt" when I was doing nothing more than staying in my lane on HPC.

Nice to see your exchange with the driver.

but the minicab driver; how on earth do you put up with the abuse?  I'm feeling really grateful I don't have anything like that to cope with.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 25 July, 2012, 01:02:23 pm
You get a tough skin, most of it just flows off. Besides, that handshake with the bus driver made me feel so incredibly good, enough to laugh off a month of unwashed minicab driver abuse.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 25 July, 2012, 01:20:43 pm
I can't see where the red van came from - did he jump the lights?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 25 July, 2012, 02:07:55 pm
No he started alongside the bus to the right of it and left hooked the bus as they both pulled away from the lights together. Even knowing what to look for I was caught out and it is only in the slowed down repeat at the end that I could see it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 25 July, 2012, 02:19:43 pm
Most bus drivers are competent and aware that they're driving a big dangerous vehicle, as to be fair, are most HGV and Taxi drivers.  There are a few who are insane nutters, and shouldn't be in their jobs, but unfortunately that's true in every walk of life.

Good to see him shaking your hand, I little bit of "PR" for cyclists goes a long way.  I suspect that if you're a professional driver in London, that sort of near incident happens so often, that it's water off a duck's back.

Even as a cyclist in London, you have to learn to take a more relaxed attitude to the nutters, otherwise you'd end up as a blubbering nervous wreck, and wouldn't dare get on a bicycle. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 25 July, 2012, 02:27:33 pm
First commute home on the new route was my nicest commute ever. Easily out of Andover then countryside for 3 miles :) Line of parked cars on my side in one village and as I was progressing a white van approached. Instinctively I flinched ready to be pushed into teh parked cars, instead he stopped, waved me on and then carried on once I'd passed safely :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 25 July, 2012, 02:39:31 pm
Quote from: TimO on 25 July, 2012, 02:19:43 pm
Most bus drivers are competent and aware that they're driving a big dangerous vehicle, as to be fair, are most HGV and Taxi drivers.  There are a few who are insane nutters, and shouldn't be in their jobs, but unfortunately that's true in every walk of life.

Good to see him shaking your hand, I little bit of "PR" for cyclists goes a long way.  I suspect that if you're a professional driver in London, that sort of near incident happens so often, that it's water off a duck's back.

Even as a cyclist in London, you have to learn to take a more relaxed attitude to the nutters, otherwise you'd end up as a blubbering nervous wreck, and wouldn't dare get on a bicycle. :-\

Too right TimO! I got the feeling he was a little bit shook up, going by the delay in getting going again.

Quote from: matthew on 25 July, 2012, 02:07:55 pm
No he started alongside the bus to the right of it and left hooked the bus as they both pulled away from the lights together. Even knowing what to look for I was caught out and it is only in the slowed down repeat at the end that I could see it.

That's right, he was in front of the black vehicle that was next to and to the right of the bus as we moved off at the start of the video. The slo-mo at the end has arrows, plus watch the shadow of the van disappearing left around the front of the bus.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 25 July, 2012, 04:12:55 pm
Quote from: TimO on 25 July, 2012, 02:19:43 pm


Good to see him shaking your hand, I little bit of "PR" for cyclists goes a long way. 

Agree. I've had lots of very friendly chats at traffic lights with cabbies and van drivers this week, asking them how they've found the traffic, any bad spots they've noticed, etc.   Sometimes they seem quite surprised that cyclists also find congestion a problem.  (And they almost always suggest you go first when the lights change :-) )
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 25 July, 2012, 04:48:27 pm
Possibly the cheekiest, was Simon (of Leg Bandage fame, but not of this parish) chatting to an Addison Lee driver, whilst we (the FNRttC) were all in a straight ahead lane, and the Addison Lee vehicle was in a left turn lane at a light controlled junction.

I'm not quite sure I'd have had the nerve at this time, which was when the Addison Lee vehicles in Bus Lanes malarky was at it's peek.  That was when the driver told Simon that Addison Lee had told their drivers to stop using the Bus Lanes, because of the number of fines that they had received!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 25 July, 2012, 05:39:39 pm
I don't know if it's a coincidence but I've noticed an awful lot of private hire vehicles using bus lanes lately (including the van that swerved from the right hand lane across my path yesterday morning). None of them Addison Lee vehicles, interestingly.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 25 July, 2012, 05:49:15 pm
I’ve been seeing Easyjet buses using the bus lanes, quite pushily too, over the last month or two. Are they entitled to use the lanes?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 25 July, 2012, 06:34:05 pm
I don't know what's going on but on the way home three separate cyclists pulled up to give way lines, looked at me, and pulled out as I as almost on top of them. I had to quickly swerve to go round them on the wrong side of the road (nothing coming the other way). Nice.

Passed Will Self going the other way on his Brommie a few minutes later.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 25 July, 2012, 07:19:53 pm
Very light traffic on the way home, did the canal first then Marylebone/Euston Road. Interrestingly, drivers weren't chancing the inside lane - bus lane as was, now removed for the duration - and even though the temp displays said "All traffic can use olympic lanes" none were. Equally, it was the lightest traffic I have seen it on a weekday, no congestion at all till after the Euston underpass. Going past the Olympic Park I expected a hive of activity, while there was some, it was not that busy today. It will be, I'm sure.
Title: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 25 July, 2012, 09:13:19 pm
For my post-work ride to Bromley this evening, I opted for the route via Peckham. However, I got to Rye Lane to find a long queue of buses - turned out the road was closed, lots of emergency services in attendance. Couldn't work out what had happened but there was one person with lots of bandages round their head and another person lying in the road being attended to by paramedics.

Anyway, had to take a diversion down the side streets, not quite sure exactly where I was going, but I came out on Lordship Lane, which is another of my regular routes so I just carried on that way... only to be greeted by another road closure! Again, no idea why but lots of police blocking the way forward.

On top of this, I could hardly breathe in the stifling heat and I had the whole itchy throat, streaming eyes and runny nose thing going on (hayfever) and the diversions meant I nearly missed my train.

London, eh?

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mmmmartin on 25 July, 2012, 10:30:22 pm
I was astonished at how empty the roads were for my - admittedly very short - ride to Cannon Street station today. And even more astonished by how empty the trains were. I think loads of people have gone on holiday, as I plan to do next week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 25 July, 2012, 11:15:41 pm
Another lovely commute for me. Half empty flowing traffic, and half miles of stationary cars. LOL!

Oh, and another two utter James Blunts. I swear it's the heat or something, I've had a month of argy in just two commutes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 25 July, 2012, 11:20:08 pm
small session of driver education this evening after a poor overtake in the face of oncoming traffic on the A330 south ascot I found the drive waiting to pick someone up at Charters School so took the chance to raise the issue.

He got out of the car and immediately appologised  :o I pointed him to the highway code and the need to pass on the other side of the road, to which he responded that this wasn't always possible with oncoming traffic. So I suggested waiting.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 25 July, 2012, 11:25:55 pm
Another car crash this morning & a ridiculously close overtake by a hgv tonight  :o  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 26 July, 2012, 07:05:49 am
This was last Thursday.
Going over a zebra crossing on the brow of a steep bridge outside Hayes train station, An idiot in a Black convertible Saab (N707 JUD) decides that no matter how wide I was taking the zebra, that he was going to overtake, and does so, swerving out immediately after the traffic island, and then in again to make the next bit of traffic calming that lies only 20 yards or so further on. Inevitably, he collided with me during the manoeuvre, but I stayed on.
Immediately post collision, he jumped on the brakes, I was a little upset with his move, and called for him to watch where he was going. to get a reply of "watch where You're going, get of the effin road".
The wonky blood begins to boil at this reaction to having just hit a cyclist, and we roll down the hill together side by side trading insults, as he tries to swerve into me repeatedly.
Admittedly, my saying "Oh you're so effing hard when you've got 2 tons of metal box" was probably a mistake, and I think took him over the edge. He speeds off into the distance, and pulls into a side parallel road, stops, jumps out of the car and comes running at me brandishing his fists. I pull out nice and wide and avoid this lunatic, and carry on.
But nutcase here is NOT finished.
He gets back into his car, back onto the main road, drives past grinning and shouting incoherently.

Half a mile or so later, and he's pulled into a lay-by, and popped the boot. as I approach up another hill, I can see him getting out and going to the boot. next thing, he's got a Tyre iron ( a shiny silver extendible one, big and heavy) and is running into the middle of the road with it poised like a baseball bat, and test swinging.
I must admit that my arse was twitching at this. but the adrenalin gave me a super human burst of speed, and the road was clear enough to go to the far kerb and just avoid this prime specimen of psychopath.

Now that I was sure that he was intent on causing my death, I was not dawdling. Red lights, roundabouts and ped crossings all got blasted by me I'm afraid, but soon he was in front, and stopped again. Thankfully we were in a busier area at this point, and I had had enough time to think about memorising his Reg, and whether I could get a photo on my phone. I sailed past with my camera and managed a shot, before then losing him in traffic near work.

As a part of my escape, I blasted a red light and nearly came a cropper from a car emerging from a blind exit, only saved by a (skillfully executed) endo by me. Of course this is the only bit seen by anyone else, and that happened to be a colleague, who then went round the floorplate telling everyone how I was an RLJ'er, and nearly got my medicine. and so I spent a large part of the rest of the day recounting this story, by way of explanation.

I'm still a little nervous about that part of my commute. I thought about reporting, as there were a significant number of crimes committed by the nutter, but it will all be down to evidence and witnesses, of which there are none, making it my word against his. although if I dissapear anytime soon, this guy is going to be a prime suspect.


Wonky has now ordered a headcam.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 July, 2012, 07:52:22 am
Flipping heck, wonky.  That's deeply disturbing.  I hope the Police can track him.down and give him a hard time.

Very glad you're still with us.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 26 July, 2012, 08:07:06 am
Blimey Wonky! Glad you're OK and got out of that one fine. There's something in the air at the moment, it seems.

p.s. I'd definitely report it, despite no witnesses and no camera footage. Explain how this driver was brandishing a metal bar. If an officer comes and talks to him, it might well have an effect. That's about all the sanction you can hope for.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 26 July, 2012, 08:34:41 am
Shit Wonky, a horrible experience. I know that stretch well, it used to be on my commute, and I can say with feeling that I loathed riding through Hayes. Glad you got away, definitely worth reporting but I'd understand if you didn't. (BTW if I remember rightly there are shedloads of CCTV around there - something to do with the number of warehouses. You can get copies of them AFAIK through a freedom of information request)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 26 July, 2012, 08:42:17 am
Seriously scary experience u have had there Wonky. Hope you can report it so that at least there is something on the record for this nutter's behaviour.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 26 July, 2012, 09:16:43 am
That is utterly terrifying, Wonky. I'm glad you're relatively ok.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tigerrr on 26 July, 2012, 09:24:20 am
Stories like that make me want a wendy cam.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 26 July, 2012, 10:06:27 am
Stories like that make me glad I live in the sticks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 26 July, 2012, 10:11:50 am
a
Stupid
anti social
aggresive
bastard

driver.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 26 July, 2012, 10:36:00 am
Wonky, that's awful. Definitely worth reporting.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 26 July, 2012, 10:58:35 am
Quote from: robust bitch oab on 26 July, 2012, 10:06:27 am
Stories like that make me glad I live in the sticks.
Unfortunately, there are people like that out in the sticks, too. (I speak from experience!) But the probability of encountering them is much lower, I'll grant.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 26 July, 2012, 12:27:03 pm
Absolute traffic carnage in Irlam last night, accident had closed the bypass both ways so my route down the high street taxed my filtering skills, all sorts of idiots about.

Very tough this morning meaning slow averag of 16.9 mph, don't know why, legs felt awful and was really hard work, hey-ho swings and roundabouts.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 26 July, 2012, 12:53:50 pm
Wonky, definitely report it. Even if (OK, when) the police take no action, the complaint should lead to the nunber being checked and it may well turn out that the thug has form. If nothing else, it should be recorded so that if he's involved in another incident and the police check up on him, your report shows up.

Glad you're OK - that kind of stuff is seriously scary.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 26 July, 2012, 07:16:51 pm
Thanks for the messages of support everyone. I seem to attract these nutters.
Still, you can look forward to some choice footage when I get my 'Wendy Cam'.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 26 July, 2012, 07:40:31 pm
I agree with everyone else & you should definitely report the loon  :demon:

As for me today other than a couple of close overtakes everything was good.  slight tailwind into work & not too bad homewards either averaged 18.3mph on my 33mile round trip  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 26 July, 2012, 11:34:27 pm
As a result of this little problemette (https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=61673.0) I had to use my knobbly tyred MTB for the commute today.

I normally do it in 38 minutes. My record is 32. Today I did it in 34 !  There may have been a following wind, and I managed to latch on to the back of a horsebox all the way from Hampton Court to Sunbury Cross (about four miles). Horseboxes are great to draft. They're generally driven very conservatively, considerately, smoothly and not too acceleratively.

I was however a sweaty pulpy mess when I got to work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 26 July, 2012, 11:37:11 pm
And Wonky. Yes, you should report it, but don't beat yourself up about it if you don't. Incidents like this (and I've never had one anywhere near as severe as this) generally leave me feeling pretty agitated and it takes days to fully overcome the anxiety (or whatever that feeling is). Having to re-live the events for a note-taking copper only prolongs the adjustment back to normality.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Juan Martín on 27 July, 2012, 08:35:20 am
On Cheapside during my pedestrian commute this morning saw lady, with brommie folded dejectedly beside her, getting a ticket for shooting a red light. Copper making clear his disappointment...'Please, please, please, when you see a red light etc.' (you've let yourself down, you've let the school down...) I've never seen this happen before but I suppose in general they are very unlikely to caught.

PS Wonky, that is a seriously scary story and as others have I would encourage you to report this incident. It seems likely to me that someone who is prepared to take that sort of action has either done it before or is likely to do it again. Anyway, stick with it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 27 July, 2012, 09:26:35 am
I would encourage you to report it Wonky - people like that are a danger to society not just cyclists.

Everyone was nice to me on the road today.  Think I should say that just to recognise that most people sitting in boxes are OK, but when you get passed by a 1000 or more the odd so and so is going to stand out. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 27 July, 2012, 09:29:04 am
Met Jane last night for a quick drink on the South Bank. Cycling back southwards we amused ourselves by having a good laugh at the Tour wannabes squeezing themselves between us and the cars in order to get a car length ahead of us. We laughed even louder at the one who determinedly overtook us on a narrow road, only to realise that there was a car coming the way…

Quiet roads today. Even the cyclist numbers were down. As I was cycling through a quiet residential street near the Oval, I came across a man unloading a big white horse. While I do see a lot of horses in the touristy bits of central London, this is a slightly more surreal sight by a council estate...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 27 July, 2012, 09:56:52 am
Yes, those guys were amusing weren't they.  As I headed home after leaving you, I came across a few more.  One shot past me on my left, where I was stopped at a red light on the Clapham Rd.  He completely burnt himself out by the time he got to Brixton and I pootled calmly past him at my usual cruising, "don't really want to get sweaty" speed.  MAMILS and YAMILS, the streets seem to be full of them.  Another nearly took me out as I was crossing the road (on foot) in Forest Hill today, on my way to meet someone to buddy them on a cycle route to Grays Inn Rd.  He was swerving round the corner down the hill through the red, extremely fast. That wasn't so amusing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 27 July, 2012, 10:41:38 am
Braved a commute to central London yesterday and it wasn't so bad, though I skipped the rush hour on the way in. Headed out about 6pm and there were hoards of cyclists, which was intermittently pleasing. The sheer number of RLJers less so. There was one moment at the lights with Clerkenwell Road and Roseberry Avenue where I was the only person waiting (I'll admit it's safe to filter through, there's only traffic joining from Roseberry Avenue, but still it's a red light). I counted 18 cyclists going past me. I overtook the majority of them on Theobolds Road, and I'm not that fast... Got buzzed by the usual arse-in-the-air roadie who then managed to shoulder barge a number 38. I didn't laugh. At all.

Things got a little better behaved travelling down through Covent Garden to Waterloo Bridge, where a majority of cyclists were actually stopping at the lights. That said, I was watching one girl for the entire route (it doesn't count as stalking if you are going in the same direction) over Waterloo Bridge down to the Old Vic cut through every light on the pedestrian phase, just squeezing through the pedestrians. At the Covent Garden end of Waterloo Bridge, she literally rode through a solid wall of pedestrians, bashing several of them. I suspect had she been a bloke, someone would have thumped her. Another cyclist shouted "red lights people!" in evident shared frustration, which she obviously didn't pay any attention to as she passed me again going through red lights at the other end of the bridge, with another fine crossing through a thick stream of pedestrians outside Waterloo Station. She wobbled off towards E&C at the Old Vic junction, which was a shame as even I was about ready to tell her to stop being such a obnoxious idiot.

Another cyclist was amazed that I could cycle with a loaded pannier on one side and not fall off. Easy I told her. About two hours later, I arrived home, stepped off the bike forgetting the pannier and it promptly fell over. Well it took a moment to dig a big oily chainwheel into my leg in the process.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 27 July, 2012, 10:52:13 am
Bit slow today. Headwind, slightly heavy legs from last night's ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 27 July, 2012, 11:13:32 am
It was an interesting week. Some squadies on a morning jog at 7 am along limehouse cut, one of them loaded with a mahoussive backpack to make it more challenging. Tuesday and Wednesday saw some Olympic beamers with cervelos on the roof, tinted windows at the back, heading up high road Leytonstone...wondering if they train in Essex.
Thursday a group of 4 fit looking female cyclists in matching Orange and white apparel with deep rim wheels (netherlands ? Or just a local cycling club ?) Riding towards wanstead flats.... sadly not going my way.

And today as mentioned above a lot of not so fit cyclists appeared to be preparing for next years your de France.

Edit. And a suicidal lady in immaculate dress on her dutch bike, on a roll coming out of the green man roundabout cycle path  in Leytonstone, and diagonally across 3 lanes of traffic as the light turns green  ...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 27 July, 2012, 12:07:14 pm
New PB for the commute: 12.8miles 38.52mins @19.7mph that's 3 whole seconds faster than my prev best  :)

So bloomin close to 20mph avg as well  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 27 July, 2012, 02:34:40 pm
Quote from: fungus on 27 July, 2012, 12:07:14 pm
New PB for the commute: 12.8miles 38.52mins @19.7mph that's 3 whole seconds faster than my prev best  :)

So bloomin close to 20mph avg as well  :demon:

Funnily enough my mate just posted a 12.8 mile commute on YouTube. Here you go, don't get too green on his average now. You can add 12.8mph on top of yours. ;)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZYShF0_BPOE
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 27 July, 2012, 04:07:43 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 27 July, 2012, 02:34:40 pm
Quote from: fungus on 27 July, 2012, 12:07:14 pm
New PB for the commute: 12.8miles 38.52mins @19.7mph that's 3 whole seconds faster than my prev best  :)

So bloomin close to 20mph avg as well  :demon:

Funnily enough my mate just posted a 12.8 mile commute on YouTube. Here you go, don't get too green on his average now. You can add 12.8mph on top of yours. ;)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZYShF0_BPOE

Git!  :demon:   ;D

Edit: it's flat as a pancake & not onna proper bike!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 27 July, 2012, 04:58:13 pm
Just reported Tesco for helping themselves to a portion of the footway/cyclepath outside the Oldfields Road store, Sutton and causing an obstruction to pedestrians and cyclists. What's the betting nothing gets done?

I expect that Sutton Council will deploy their usual get out card- the footway in question runs alongside the A217, which is a Red Route.  This apparently falls within TFL's remit. You've more chance of finding Shergar than making sense of their website or getting a response while you are still breathing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 28 July, 2012, 07:59:01 pm
Quote from: fungus on 27 July, 2012, 04:07:43 pm

Git!  :demon:   ;D

Edit: it's flat as a pancake & not onna proper bike!

It gets worse, you were savaged by a guy on a tricycle.  :demon: :demon: ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bloomers100 on 30 July, 2012, 08:18:23 am
More like april out there first thing. Nice clear skies though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 30 July, 2012, 09:49:54 am
No apocalypse on the roads.

Took me a couple of minutes longer than usual to go around the south roundabout at Lambeth Bridge, but that was only because there was a little more traffic than usual and a Terravision coach blocking the bus lane (are they allowed there?) and filtering past it would have meant going between it and a skip lorry, so I waited as did, amazingly, several other cyclists.

Still feeling happy after having fun watching both races yesterday I committed the ultimate Londoner sin of smiling at cyclists coming the other way; they looked at me with deep, deep suspicion!  ;D 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 30 July, 2012, 10:07:22 am
Lots of cyclists of different flavours overtaking me this morning :). Not too much motor traffic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 30 July, 2012, 11:29:58 am
My route in was just empty. It was like riding on a Sunday morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 30 July, 2012, 11:32:35 am
So was mine. But it was Cambridge, and it was 7.30am  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 30 July, 2012, 09:31:16 pm
After last weeks 'Wiggins effect' whereby the bike shelter was full to the rafters with blingy shiny unfeasably clean road/race bikes, it was desolately empty again this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 31 July, 2012, 11:06:46 am
Spot bike on my tail on Coldhams Lane, but he keeps a safe distance. Lose him at the Sainsburys Roundabout and don't see him again.

But...

roll up behind a cyclist at Kings Hedges/Milton Road lights. I wait behind, we go, he drops me, I CBA with heavy load to chase. Park up at work and realise he's just parking up, must work in the same building. "I'll give you that one" I said. He said "Did you go a different way?" which confused me, but then he said "I went over the Green Dragon bridge". He was the same cyclist from Coldhams Lane. He took a short-cut over the common, I stayed on the road, which is how he was ahead of me at Milton Road.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 31 July, 2012, 11:57:05 am
Such a fine day that I took a rare long-cut on my ride in ( it only adds a couple of k but it adds a bit of extra climbing ).
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/204978958

Went over the Garrol Hill, which gives great views of the surrounding countryside.
http://goo.gl/maps/2etdP

<eta> And on the way home too!
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/205142121
A wee bit quicker.
With a fairly decent 17 minute climb up the CoM, about 2 mins better than I managed on-camera on the Snow Roads!

Got visible tan-lines for the first time in a long while.

 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 31 July, 2012, 12:07:42 pm
I saw a cyclist put himself an inch from squishy death between a van and railings by forcing himself into a narrowing gap on the left of a transit van. Luckily the van driver saw him and stopped, moved right and carried on. I don't think the cyclist appreciated how stupid he'd been. I had a second or so of absolute terror.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 31 July, 2012, 12:48:28 pm
Quote from: Kirst on 31 July, 2012, 12:07:42 pm
I saw a cyclist put himself an inch from squishy death between a van and railings by forcing himself into a narrowing gap on the left of a transit van. Luckily the van driver saw him and stopped, moved right and carried on. I don't think the cyclist appreciated how stupid he'd been. I had a second or so of absolute terror.

This type of error makes me think that a cycle-license,awarded after passing a road test,is necessary to protect the Darwin cyclists from themselves.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 31 July, 2012, 12:49:51 pm
I got to the train station and realized that I didn't have the lock with me.  So I had to go home again and get the later train.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 31 July, 2012, 12:57:09 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 30 July, 2012, 09:49:54 am
No apocalypse on the roads.

Took me a couple of minutes longer than usual to go around the south roundabout at Lambeth Bridge, but that was only because there was a little more traffic than usual and a Terravision coach blocking the bus lane (are they allowed there?) and filtering past it would have meant going between it and a skip lorry, so I waited as did, amazingly, several other cyclists.

Still feeling happy after having fun watching both races yesterday I committed the ultimate Londoner sin of smiling at cyclists coming the other way; they looked at me with deep, deep suspicion!  ;D

Re: the Teravision coach, AFAIK (have been avoiding the area), according to the getaheadofthegames gumpf, the bus lanes on the Lambeth Palace Road are suspended, so maybe that is why they are there?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 31 July, 2012, 03:47:48 pm
Quote from: vorsprung on 31 July, 2012, 12:49:51 pm
I got to the train station and realized that I didn't have the lock with me.  So I had to go home again and get the later train.

"Forgot" indeed. Wanted an excuse for a longer ride, more like.

<makes mental note of that trick for future use>

:thumbsup:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JJ on 31 July, 2012, 05:34:12 pm
Briefly lost my zen in Grantchester, owing to a silly squeezie-pasty overtake past the Blue Ball.  That led to my overtaking more cars in the later queues in town than was strictly necessary, but zen rediscovered later.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 01 August, 2012, 08:58:08 am
Aborted.

Woke at 5:30 as normal, realised that the 3.5 hours sleep I had had was unlikely to leave me entirely sober from the previous night. Discretion was probably the greater part of valour in this instance, took the train. Yech.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonyh on 01 August, 2012, 09:47:19 am
Feanor - Wow! Thanks for posting.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 02 August, 2012, 09:31:02 am
This morning I stopped to let someone coming the other way go through the chicanes before me. He had massive ginger sideburns, which looked real. I know if I'd won Olympic gold I wouldn't celebrate it by doing the Bingham stretch of the Innocent, but perhaps he's looking for a new type of challenge.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: snail on 02 August, 2012, 08:19:29 pm
I don't usually commute by bike. Catastrophic mot failure forced me into it today. Got one shout of "Wigg-o!" and one "nice bike".

Also it might be my imagination but everyone gave me loads of room when overtaking. Perhaps it's because I'm wearing yellow and in Lancashire, but even white vans were waiting to overtake sensibly.

It won't last.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 03 August, 2012, 08:00:15 am
Saw a pedestrian get hit by a car today. :(

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9LoVpIwypLA
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 03 August, 2012, 08:11:15 am
Did the car hit him, or did he jump out of the way and fall?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 03 August, 2012, 08:15:24 am
Hard to tell - it looks like the car may have hit his rucksack, but either way it's disgraceful that the driver didn't stop.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 August, 2012, 08:21:25 am
Dreadful. I hope they are already Roadsafed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 03 August, 2012, 08:38:13 am
It hit his lower left leg, and redirected his momentum so he hit the front of the van and the tarmac. That's why he didn't land on his feet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 03 August, 2012, 09:03:02 am
Quote from: clarion on 03 August, 2012, 08:21:25 am
Dreadful. I hope they are already Roadsafed.

You can't roadsafe pedestrians who run out from in between cars, more's the pity.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 03 August, 2012, 09:15:04 am
Do you think the incident will have more or less effect on his learning than a Roadsafe letter?

I don't think the driver did anything wrong up to the point of collision, but I could be entirely mistaken. Driving off afterwards was utterly contemptible though. All IMO of course.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 03 August, 2012, 09:18:27 am
Quote from: Wendy on 03 August, 2012, 09:15:04 am
I don't think the driver did anything wrong up to the point of collision, but I could be entirely mistaken. Driving off afterwards was utterly contemptible though. All IMO of course.

From the video, I would agree about the driver up to the point of the collision.  The pedestrian did appear to run out from between stationary traffic without looking properly, and is a very lucky chap not to have been hit harder.

However, there was a collision and he should have stopped - no excuses. 

Doesn't it go beyond Roadsafe - hasn't he committed a criminal offence by failing to stop at the scene etc.?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 03 August, 2012, 09:31:44 am
I'll leave that up to Roadsafe, but I'm willing to do the statement/court thing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 03 August, 2012, 11:58:37 am
Quote from: marcusjb on 03 August, 2012, 09:18:27 am
- hasn't he committed a criminal offence by failing to stop at the scene etc.?

yes
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil on 03 August, 2012, 11:08:02 pm
I stopped at the scene of a bloke who'd been knocked off today on the Embankment.  Two witnesses had come to help, a cyclist and a pedestrian, but the downed cyclist was obviously in some pain.  I checked him over - hurt leg, probably broken collarbone, but no obvious head injuries - and dialled 999.  No, operator, I don't know the postcode of Temple tube station.  Hopefully your driver can work it out. 

The cyclist described a car beeping behind him, before knocking him off into a lamppost and driving away.  He had the name of the hire company the car belonged to and a description but no number plate.  The PCSO who crossed the road to look officious and mutter into his radio advised the two witnesses to leave as 'there's no CCTV, not much we can do'.  After we'd packed our patient into the ambulance, I asked if this was standard practice.  'Just being realistic, sir'.  I didn't argue the point. 

All a bit crap :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 04 August, 2012, 12:35:23 am
That is really pretty shit. I think it is no longer the case that hit and run is considered a serious offence. If ever caught, the repercussions are fairly inconsequential for the offender, while the victim is left with the financial struggle of dealing with a serious injury without recourse to prompt compensation.

Meanwhile, my open letter:

Dear motorcyclist,
following our meeting this morning I took your advice and re-read the Highway Code. I'm not sue what your point was? As far as I can see I wasn't doing anything in contravention of the code. However, you might want to refresh your familiarity with rule 88. You seemed to be having some trouble with that one yourself. Oh, and also 103, 124, 125, 133, 134, 141, 144, 151, 153, 161, 163, 165, 167, 175, 178, 182, 206, 212, and 213. I hope this will stop you riding like a complete fucktard, but I doubt there is ever much hope of that.
Hoping I never meet you on the road again,
A cyclist.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 05 August, 2012, 01:01:24 pm
Outside the pub near my house, mid afternoon, a gentleman on a hybrid hard-arse is weaving over the road, from the right hand side to the nearside just as I'm passing.

"Whaoh! Where are you going?"

I ask.

"I'm fxxxxd if I know!"

He says.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 06 August, 2012, 08:04:05 am
First one back after hols, very slow, just 15.8 mph average. Legs couldn't get hold of the idea that they've got to work first thing.

Mr Passat, what I think I'm f***in doing is cycling in this lane, as I explained to you if you want to overtake use the other lane and stop undertaking everyone queing for the roadworks. Your 4/5 yr old daughter looked terrified I'm sure you're a very proud parent.

Muppet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 06 August, 2012, 01:43:59 pm
Quote from: Phil on 03 August, 2012, 11:08:02 pm
I stopped at the scene of a bloke who'd been knocked off today on the Embankment.  Two witnesses had come to help, a cyclist and a pedestrian, but the downed cyclist was obviously in some pain.  I checked him over - hurt leg, probably broken collarbone, but no obvious head injuries - and dialled 999.  No, operator, I don't know the postcode of Temple tube station.  Hopefully your driver can work it out. 

The cyclist described a car beeping behind him, before knocking him off into a lamppost and driving away.  He had the name of the hire company the car belonged to and a description but no number plate.  The PCSO who crossed the road to look officious and mutter into his radio advised the two witnesses to leave as 'there's no CCTV, not much we can do'.  After we'd packed our patient into the ambulance, I asked if this was standard practice.  'Just being realistic, sir'.  I didn't argue the point. 

All a bit crap :(
so that PCSO doesn't understand the meaning of the word 'witness'.

ffs

Well done you, for helping.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 07 August, 2012, 07:45:26 pm
Got cold and soaked on the way home, which caused me to near-bonk twice so I had to re-fuel much more than usual.

So normal 2:40 turned into over 3 hours.
Bah.

Hope it clears up for the weekend, or it will be as much fun as, er, a wet 400.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 07 August, 2012, 07:50:50 pm
Well it didn't take long. I thought that my first vid on here was going to be the silly bint that overtook me in a 'traffic calmed' area, even though I was taking the lane, to get to a red light a few seconds earlier, but no, my first video star is this prime wazzock.

Not only did he go for a Left Hook, but after I airzounded him to a stop and shouted a stern parental "No!", our driver and his equally idiotic passenger took offence at my being there. some off camera threats were made to me, and then to prove how big his what a cock he was, swerved at me to 'teach me a lesson'.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q_2U-OsmpZM

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 07 August, 2012, 07:57:43 pm
Yesterday. 100 yards to go to the back of the queue from Sunbury Cross. I take the lane so that I can go outside the queue without having to worry about someone overtaking and boxing me in.

Cue the berk in a Merc. Foot to the floor, gets alongside before he realises he is about to make a complete cock of himself so eases off and falls back in behind me.

It is deeply disturbing that the mere presence of a cyclist can so bamboozle a motorist that they are unable to see anything else beyond the moving object which occupies a relatively small portion of the available field of view. It would be fun to set up a controlled experiment and see if they would pull off the same stunt with a brick wall ahead where the object to be overtaken was the variable; bike, milk float, horse, mobility scooter, recumbent, etc etc.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 07 August, 2012, 08:11:59 pm
Quote from: hatler on 07 August, 2012, 07:57:43 pm
It would be fun to set up a controlled experiment and see if they would pull off the same stunt with a brick wall ahead where the object to be overtaken was the variable; bike, milk float, horse, mobility scooter, recumbent, etc etc.

I'd suggest that with the recumbent they'd drive gently and calmly into the wall, while matching pace in order to video the bike with their iPhone.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 08 August, 2012, 12:13:23 am
Yikes Wonky! Glad you're OK there. Upsetting, isn't it?

I took the bus and train today, out for a major pissup with old school friends, and I saw an old banger that tailgated me in 2010. Recognised it from the rego, and suggested to the lady driver that she look up her registration on google, as a man driving it drove very badly around me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 09 August, 2012, 01:31:36 pm
Although I have never been a racing snake my average speed this year has decreased dramatically over the year due to the weight gained while I recovered from my two accidents. I still have my Christmas fat on me. Its been over month since I became a fully functioning cyclist so I was getting a little upset that everybody passes me on my commute. 

So last night I am climbing the biggest hill on my commute and spot a bike ahead.  I think I will not catch him in my current condition.  However on the steep bit I start to close on him.  He disappears around the bend as I crest the steep bit so I am disappointed again. I get to a position where I can see him and he is right in front of me traveling at the same speed on the false flat section that he climbed the steep section.  I normally accelerate here so I did and passed him. He was not very old or very young.

I am no longer the slowest commuter on my route. Now to lose some more weight and get the fast ones.  :D

   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 09 August, 2012, 01:56:57 pm
Where as last night I was scalped by a gurl.  :o

To be fair I had set off from the traffic lights 25m back, on my fixie with commuting luggage (nelson longflap) and she was on a full road bike in full club kit and no tools. Plus she obviously had not had to stop for the lights so still had momentum from the slight downward slope.

I nearly regained her back wheel up the hill to Heatherwood Roundabout but whilst I can hold my speed most of the way up in the gear on the fixie I blew up 2/3rds of the way up and she was gone.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 09 August, 2012, 03:13:36 pm
Today I came across a woman with a double buggy stopped pretty much exactly in the "gateway" (https://maps.google.co.uk/?ll=51.456267,-0.14742&spn=0.00239,0.005681&t=m&layer=c&cbll=51.456488,-0.147612&panoid=0P1BNfg1M1Qp1v_IwSsTSQ&cbp=12,314.74,,1,14.1&z=18) to the cyclepath across Clapham Common.

She was doing something in the buggy, but it didn't particularly seem to be an emergency, so why stop there?  She could have stopped further down, where I could have popped off onto the grass, or more sensibly she could have been on the path proper, but no, she stopped almost exactly centrally between the posts, making it impossible to get past her.

She did an "Oh sorry" when she noticed me, but why do people stop in places like this?  It's a bit like stopping to check something in the middle of crossing the road. ???

I've had the same in the past further along, where the footpath and cyclepath cross.  Now, strictly speaking the pedestrians always have right of way, but why stop exactly at that point, where it causes the maximum disruption?

It's not a big issue, I can wait twenty seconds whilst they move out of the way, or go around them on the grass if possible, but it just seems to be exceptionally unaware of the world around them.  I presume these are the same people who step out from behind vans and buses, whilst chatting on their phones. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 09 August, 2012, 03:16:23 pm
TimO, for the same reason people stop in doorways to check that they have their wallet/put their change away etc.

It is also linked with why people forget things when they go from one room to another, the mind sees it as a change of context, thus what wasn't important in the shop becomes life-threatening as they walk out of the door.  At least it is life-threatening if I happen to be walking behind them when they decide standing in the doorway to check their possessions!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 09 August, 2012, 03:29:56 pm
Or stand at the bottom of the tube escalator reading a map.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 09 August, 2012, 03:30:08 pm
I hate hot weather.

But there's no doubt it helps with speed. Tailwind for half the ride home, then it died away. 1hr21min on the Mercian with 2" tyres, humungous mudguards and luggage. Made me almost enjoy the heat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 09 August, 2012, 04:51:31 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 09 August, 2012, 03:29:56 pm
Or stand at the bottom of the tube escalator reading a map.

It's worse when they stop at the top to do that - as I have seen happen  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 09 August, 2012, 04:56:58 pm
*Amused* that both of you forgot to mention which direction the escalator was going in. I suspect the result was the same.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 10 August, 2012, 08:04:04 am
Seen yesterday: cyclist dressed in black with a hi-viz tabard printed:
POLITE
notice
THINK BIKE
Blue-and-white chequered band round his helmet, plus a head-cam.



Of course, he then sailed straight through the red lights  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 10 August, 2012, 10:49:58 am
I feel a bit shitty as I nearly knocked another cyclist off today - to be fair, he was rather erratic and I had to change path twice to avoid him - but I still feel a knob as I should have seen he was a swerver.  Stopped at a red light at front of a small group of cyclists - dude comes screaming by on our right in the right filter lane, realises chance of squashing by car is high, so stops in the middle of the junction doing some kind of crappy track stand.  I stupidly assume he is going right as he's in the right hand lane (this was the thing I am embarressed about - I just didn't read his intentions correctly at all) - light goes green, I get going (pretty quickly) - he decides he wants to be in the left lane, so swerves across the front of my wheel, fine, I go out to further into the lane to pass, he now swerves right nearly taking me out again - I am ashamed to say I dropped in MUCH closer than I would normally do when passing someone - I was a dick basically - he may have been incapable of riding in a straight line, but I shouldn't have lost my rag and dropped in so quickly.  Grrr - apologies to Mr errratic, but do learn to not blast through red lights and then ride in a straight line etc.

Other than that, it's a fabulous day to be out on a bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 10 August, 2012, 11:34:59 am
Self-admitted punishment pass from a cock in a Saab convertible on Wednesday. L9 AFY.

No-one coming the other way, horrible segregated cycle lane on my left. Cock drives past at I would guess a bit over 30 about 4" from my right elbow. When I caught him in the queue ahead I asked politely for 'More Room Please' and he launched into the standard tirade.

"So, you deliberately steered close to me to teach me a lesson ?"

"Yes, you &^&*%$ %^&&%  &*$£*&" etc etc ad nauseam.

Cock.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 10 August, 2012, 01:30:49 pm
Boris's big post-Olympics bike plan:

http://www.google.com/hostednews/ukpress/article/ALeqM5jXycCI48SD6O0nXQONS9BRq3k7Fg?docId=B24449721344595893A00001

Thought maybe it was going to be make the zil lanes for cyclists, oh well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 10 August, 2012, 05:49:26 pm
Ah, it's been a long long while since I had a screaming match with a driver...but it's been a bad week and this silly sod was all I needed to have a good vent at... :demon:

At the North roundabout at Lambeth bridge (one of TFL's most dangerous junctions iirc). Cycling straight ahead. Am on RAB when bloke on left pulls out on me. Luckily the bike's backpedal brake and the fact that the approach to the bridge is slightly uphill stopped me hitting him, otherwise it could have been nasty.

Me: (in tones normally reserved for off-roading) 'OI!" Luckily the bike's backpedal brake and the fact that the approach to the bridge is slightly uphill stopped me hitting him, otherwise it could have been nasty.
Him: Stops, looks confused. I cycle round him. He shouts 'I didn't see you!'
Me: 'Because you didn't LOOK!'
Him: 'Fuck off!' and drives off.

But what's that at the end of the bridge? Oh look, traffic lights. So I catch him up.

Me: 'Why did you swear at me when you were in the wrong?'
Him: 'You bloody cyclists, cycling all over the place, changing lanes...blah blah'
Me: (quite loud and screechy by now; lots of people looking, anyone who's ever taken me off road will know the tone) 'I was in the lane for going straight ahead, you just weren't looking!'
Him: 'You cyclists are always doing everything wrong...blah blah...bloody cyclists...'
Me: 'I wasn't doing anything wrong! You just weren't looking!'
As the lights changed he reverted to the tried and tested logic of shouting 'Fuck off!' again before driving off at some speed. I think he was rather hoping to lose me. If I'd wanted to I could have followed him and caught him at every traffic light, but that's not the most fun thing to do onna Friday night, so I went straight ahead on my usual route while he turned right, probably mightily relieved to have lost the furious screechy woman.  ;D

Still, it might make him think twice before not looking properly at RABs...

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 10 August, 2012, 06:41:03 pm
Hahahahahaha, great putdown Laura. I should think the shame of his mistake will stick in his mind quite a long time thanks to you, and hopefully change his behaviour in future.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 10 August, 2012, 09:54:05 pm
Cycling home this lunch time, squeezing between parked car and not-so-parked car a magazine thwacked into my spokes and got caught up between wheel and spoke. Getting off to remove the offending item – ye good fortunes! – after many years of no roadside smut, Bromley had delivered forth a copy of Fiesta (which I was shocked to find was still being published – and for those not in the know, it's a gentleman's magazine, which was the leading currency at my comprehensive school, usually exchanged at the rate of 1.5 Fiesta to a Knave). Obviously, I don't read pornography by the roadside, so I only paused to look at the pictures. It's really rather tame. I blame the internet. Only the other day I learned about recreational urethral sounding from the Guardian. How's the top shelf going to compete when that kind of stuff is on the bottom?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 11 August, 2012, 06:32:05 am
I thought my Comp was down market, but at least we had 'Mayfair' for the discerning young gentleman.  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: peterc on 11 August, 2012, 08:50:05 pm
Does yesterday count?
Near the start of my mostly rural commute from Hook to Basingstoke I spotted a chap on a sooty Cevelo with aeros deep rims, he seemed to be bimbling rather than motoring so slid up beside him to ask his route, I don't tend to meet many cyclists and a conversation or slipstream makes for a fun ride home. The usual first question is "Where are you heading?"

"Truro"

I near fell into the traffic.

Chapeau, hope you made it, seemed like a nice evening, night, morning for it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 11 August, 2012, 08:52:55 pm
Quote from: peterc on 11 August, 2012, 08:50:05 pm
"Where are you heading?"

"Truro"

I near fell into the traffic.


 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 12 August, 2012, 03:42:47 pm
Yeah, it's funny how not being seen is always your fault  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 13 August, 2012, 08:48:39 am
Quote from: hatler on 10 August, 2012, 11:34:59 am
Self-admitted punishment pass from a cock in a Saab convertible on Wednesday. L9 AFY.

No-one coming the other way, horrible segregated cycle lane on my left. Cock drives past at I would guess a bit over 30 about 4" from my right elbow. When I caught him in the queue ahead I asked politely for 'More Room Please' and he launched into the standard tirade.

"So, you deliberately steered close to me to teach me a lesson ?"

"Yes, you &^&*%$ %^&&%  &*$£*&" etc etc ad nauseam.

Cock.
This morning. Same car, same time, same place. Too close again. Sadly there was no queue for him to get held up at.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 13 August, 2012, 10:48:44 am
Can't remember where you live, but would one of these links help you report him?

Surrey:
http://www.drivesmartsurrey.org.uk/contact.asp

Sussex:
http://www.operationcrackdown.org/

They will probably not do anything other than make a note on the PNC for one report. Make two reports, once for each incident, and be as objective as possible. No emotion, try to estimate exactly how close he came, and they are more likely to take it seriously and do something about it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 13 August, 2012, 11:37:06 am
Wendy,

Thank you for those. I'm actually in SW London and commute out into Surrey each day and this is happening less than half a mile from where I live in sunny SW20 so Roadsafe (http://www.met.police.uk/roadsafelondon/) is the one.

Much appreciated.

(Haven't you got those two links the wrong way round ?)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 13 August, 2012, 11:54:45 am
Roadsafed both incidents.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 13 August, 2012, 11:58:37 am
Doh! I have indeed, thank you, and thank you twice for going to the effort of roadsafing this driver.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 13 August, 2012, 12:10:36 pm
Back to work today after two weeks off. The fixed wheel is still in the workshop so I'm going singlespeed at the moment. It feels really weird. The gearing is rather low (about 61") so I can't get up any real speed without spinning like a maniac, except when coasting downhill, so I just took the ride at a more relaxed pace. Which is kind of nice, actually. Although it does make me feel somewhat overdressed in full lycra. I might just go for civvies tomorrow and be a proper utility cyclist.

Traffic seems very light in central London at the moment, even though sports day is over. Presumably just because it's the summer holidays. On the whole, this is a good thing, but there are always some idiots who see clearer roads as an excuse to drive faster and even more aggressively... Ho hum.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: henshaw11 on 13 August, 2012, 01:37:22 pm
I've just used the Surrey DriveSmart for the first time today - decent overtake by a car driver on the approach to a roundabout, but some twat in a large aggregate-stylee lorry forces himself in the diminishing space between me and the speed cushion/gaveway line such that I'm looking at the side wondering where the f*** it's going to wind up. Dunno if the fact there's a *very* narrow cycle 'path' in the gutter (with a solid/raised edge - you wouldn't want to cross it on a bike) helped him think it was a good idea, but I was my usual ~1m out at the time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 13 August, 2012, 04:13:29 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 13 August, 2012, 12:10:36 pm
Back to work today after two weeks off. The fixed wheel is still in the workshop so I'm going singlespeed at the moment. It feels really weird. The gearing is rather low (about 61") so I can't get up any real speed without spinning like a maniac, except when coasting downhill, so I just took the ride at a more relaxed pace. Which is kind of nice, actually. Although it does make me feel somewhat overdressed in full lycra. I might just go for civvies tomorrow and be a proper utility cyclist.

Traffic seems very light in central London at the moment, even though sports day is over. Presumably just because it's the summer holidays. On the whole, this is a good thing, but there are always some idiots who see clearer roads as an excuse to drive faster and even more aggressively... Ho hum.

d.


...ummm.... just out of interest, how effective are you finding Souteastern railway's bike ban - if at all?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 13 August, 2012, 04:37:36 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 13 August, 2012, 04:13:29 pm
...ummm.... just out of interest, how effective are you finding Souteastern railway's bike ban - if at all?

The north Kent line isn't the busiest part of the network so they turn a blind eye to me taking my non-folding bike on the train into London in the morning.

There are no ticket barriers to negotiate at Whitstable; there are barriers at Faversham and Sittingbourne, but I've never had a problem with being let through to get on a train at either of those stations. And they usually seem quite happy to let me out when I get to London Bridge, Cannon Street or Victoria. I've had problems at St Pancras though - silly jobsworth in a peaked cap threatened me with an £80 fine, but I think he was bluffing.

I've never had any complaint from the guards on the train - in fact, there's one who's a keen cyclist himself and likes to chat about bike stuff.

However, I can't get on a train out of the London termini in the evening during rush hour - they won't let you through the ticket barrier with a non-folding bike. But that's ok because I usually ride to Bromley after work, and I've never had a problem getting on a train with my bike there (except when the service is screwed and the trains are packed, which happens occasionally).

I didn't try to take a bike on the train during the Olympics but I heard they were being very strict about enforcing the ban then. I expect it will be the same for the Paralympics.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 13 August, 2012, 05:04:29 pm
Ta for that - I take it Bromley South remains barrier-free while they carry out remedial stuff....

Means I might actually get to ride down to your neck of the woods while we still have something resembling summer  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 13 August, 2012, 05:25:03 pm
Not sure about the barrier situation at Bromley South. The staff always used to let me through when the barriers were there, so I doubt it will make any difference if/when they return.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 13 August, 2012, 06:53:00 pm
I should know better than to remonstrate with a driver  :facepalm:

Car overtakes me somewhat closely on the third to last road home. Don't even gesture as it was more rude/only a bit dangerous rather than particularly dangerous.

As it happens the car takes the next two turnings ahead of me the same way I'm going and then pulls up onto a driveway. Initially left it and turned off but decided maybe a quiet word would help for future. I've had similar with a van driver near here and he was apologetic and hadn't realised he'd been too close.

Pity this conversation didn't go so well.

Me: Excuse me Sir, could I possibly have a bit more space when overtaking in future? (Pleasant tone as I'd not been chasing him down and wasn't out of breath or annoyed)
Him: I gave you plenty of room and you were in the middle of the road!
Me: Well it didn't feel like plenty of room to me and I was 'in the middle of the road' as I was avoiding the potholes, had I hit one and ended up under your wheels it'd have held you up a lot longer than waiting a couple of seconds.
Him: I gave you plenty of room and you were in the middle of the road!
Me: As I said, it didn't feel that way to me and I was avoiding the potholes.

I was getting a sense of deja vu as he started repeating his part for yet third time. Unforutnately I lost the high ground here and whilst I didn't swear I did tell him that I wasn't going to bother talking to him anymore as he obviously only had half a brain.

His response was "Well I've got a bigger brain than you, you pratt."

To which I rode off making chicken noises and waving  ;D

I should have just left it and I'm more annoyed now than when he overtook.

What do we reckon, plenty of bird seed/bread on the verge next to his drive? There are a lot of seagulls around here after all  O:-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: red marley on 13 August, 2012, 07:18:11 pm
Quote from: Ashaman42 on 13 August, 2012, 06:53:00 pm
Him: I gave you plenty of room and you were in the middle of the road!

This response suggests he knew he was in the wrong. If he thought he gave you plenty of room, then being "in the middle of the road" is irrelevant. Suggests a punishment pass for not being in the gutter to me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 13 August, 2012, 08:23:12 pm
Yeah I thought his two points didn't mesh very well but there you go.

Other than that minor annoyance I had two lovely commutes today, nearly drove in as had a head/neck ache when I got up and am glad I didn't.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 13 August, 2012, 08:35:31 pm
You probably had a lot more effect on his future driving that it might seem. I'm sure he realised he did wrong, else he'd not have been so defensive. Well done!

All you can really do once you're in that situation is keep on message, keeping the subject on his driving. Stuff like:
"You need to overtake cyclists in the next lane."
"Good drivers give cyclists enough space to fall over and still be able to avoid them."
"Consider yourself lucky I'm not one of those cyclists with video cameras. There are lots around."
"That was not enough room for safety. You scared me with that driving."
"Look at the picture of a car overtaking a bike in the highway code, it shows you how much space to give."

I didn't do very well at this one yesterday, had something similar.  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 13 August, 2012, 08:50:43 pm
Yeah I gave it a go, like I say I've had good results before. And I was calm and polite (until I stooped to personal insults  :facepalm:) Though I think my comment about half a brain was generous if anything.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 13 August, 2012, 10:01:40 pm
Saw a good comment on YouTube just now: "He has two brain cells, and they're both trying to kill each other." LOL!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 14 August, 2012, 08:32:25 am
Quote from: citoyen on 13 August, 2012, 04:37:36 pm
I didn't try to take a bike on the train during the Olympics but I heard they were being very strict about enforcing the ban then. I expect it will be the same for the Paralympics.
I had no problems, and indeed no comment from anyone, taking the bike Waterloo East--Blackheath on Saturday early evening, at an hour when there were still spectators heading to the Dome. A good job too, because I wasn't really fit to ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 14 August, 2012, 08:40:49 am
A major junction just north of Derby city centre ("Five Lamps" for those who know it) is being dug up.  Right down as far as the original bricks and stone squares.  Beeb Clicky (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-derbyshire-19059338) includes the quote:
Quote from: Derby City Council Network Manager
but fundamentally there's no strength left in the road given the volume of traffic that uses it every day.

So the ride home yesterday was bliss.  After a couple of wiggles through "Road Closed" signs, and a bit of riding along barriered-off pavements (no peds around, and there wasn't enough width to walk my bike :o), I was then on roads deserted except for bikes, and motorists who had ignored the "Road Closed Ahead" signs who then had to do a 3-pt turn and come back again.

It's going to be like that for two weeks. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 14 August, 2012, 12:02:12 pm
Quote from: rower40 on 14 August, 2012, 08:40:49 am
motorists who had ignored the "Road Closed Ahead" signs who then had to do a 3-pt turn and come back again.

It never ceases to amaze me that people do this. And yet you can guarantee that there will always be some who think road closed signs don't apply to them.

A few years ago, the main road from Hythe to Rye across Romney Marsh was closed while they rebuilt a level crossing. The workmen were letting cyclists and pedestrians through, as long as you carried your bike, but there was no way a car could get through. And yet plenty ignored the road closed sign and had to double back for several miles to take the signed diversion. #schadenfreude

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 14 August, 2012, 12:14:54 pm
Cracking tail wind home last night, this mornings ride was lovely new start time half an hour earlier makes a massive difference to the vtraffic volume, just leaves me the school run to battle on the way home  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 14 August, 2012, 09:55:50 pm
This morning, when I went to the shed, I discovered that the spiders had been out in force, making some beautiful webs overnight. It was a shame to destroy their work. But my bike was needed.

A half a mile into the journey, and I notice that I have some passengers. Every time I stopped for some lights, two spiders would crawl up my gear cable and start work. By the time I got to work, the plucky little buggers had laid a couple of solid anchor lines.

During the day, they managed to build a web on the bike that stood up to the ride home, (and I had  a good 15.4 mph rolling average).

Until, that is, I got home. No sooner than I have come into the Garden, my offspring were playing, and my son wanders up, says Hi Dad, sees this web of beauty, and wipes it away without thinking  :facepalm:



Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 14 August, 2012, 10:03:42 pm
Grinned on the way home.

Shortly after a motorist tried to squash me into a kerb and very shortly after a noisy discussion about parentage and anatomy, one of the bloke's rear licence plate bolts gave up the ghost, leaving it noisily dragging along the road. Not exactly what I wanted but the hoped-for engine explosion could have been messy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 14 August, 2012, 10:13:52 pm
Quote from: Wonky on 14 August, 2012, 09:55:50 pm
A half a mile into the journey, and I notice that I have some passengers. Every time I stopped for some lights, two spiders would crawl up my gear cable and start work. By the time I got to work, the plucky little buggers had laid a couple of solid anchor lines.

Reminds me of the day after the Dunwich Dynamo 2010, which saw Team Slow distributing earwigs across half of Suffolk, London, and beyond.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 14 August, 2012, 10:19:03 pm
Quote from: Wonky on 14 August, 2012, 09:55:50 pm
Until, that is, I got home. No sooner than I have come into the Garden, my offspring were playing, and my son wanders up, says Hi Dad, sees this web of beauty, and wipes it away without thinking  :facepalm:
Don't worry too much.  Most spiders re-spin their webs every evening.  They usually eat the old web first, but loads of webs must get destroyed in the usual course of events.  There will be another one there in the morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 15 August, 2012, 12:00:26 pm
Swine of a headwind this morning although virtually no traffic about. The forecast for the return leg is interesting although I'll take the forecasted winds
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 15 August, 2012, 07:17:11 pm
Pig of a headwind in and then about lunchtime the wind flipped so also hard work coming home. Tired and felt really slow but only took about ten minutes longer than usual so not too bad.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 15 August, 2012, 08:42:04 pm
Middle-aged bloke in a suit walking towards me on a (shared-use) road feints as I pass, he goes to barge me with his shoulder. I swear at him, he swears back with his back to me walking away, I'm this close to going back and lumping him but there's loads of cctv and it would be silly. I ride off, never put a foot down during the whole thing, and hear him shouting "I'll beat you with one hand behind me back!" as he swaggered away. Quite smartly dressed, looked affluent. Knob.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 16 August, 2012, 11:55:13 am
Whats with all these morning headwinds this year, usually the prevailing wind gives a headwind in the evening, seem to have had an awful ot of somewhat easterly winds this year
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 16 August, 2012, 11:58:36 am
A car door was opened into me.

(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 16 August, 2012, 11:59:10 am
Quote from: Wendy on 13 August, 2012, 10:48:44 am
Can't remember where you live, but would one of these links help you report him?

Surrey:
http://www.drivesmartsurrey.org.uk/contact.asp

Sussex:
http://www.operationcrackdown.org/

They will probably not do anything other than make a note on the PNC for one report. Make two reports, once for each incident, and be as objective as possible. No emotion, try to estimate exactly how close he came, and they are more likely to take it seriously and do something about it.

Wow !  Surrey, I'm impressed. I logged an incident on their website at about 11.15 this morning and they've just been on the blower (11.55) asking me to confirm some details.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 16 August, 2012, 06:07:26 pm
A new Bottom Bracket, combined with a slight tailwind and a forgotten NEED to be home by a certain time caused me to get a rolling average of 17.1mph = 27.5 kph  8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 17 August, 2012, 09:32:17 am
Missed my train by 30 seconds, therefore it was quicker to go home, change and cycle the 25km to the office. 55 minutes and a generally high standard of driving on the A322 and Nine Mile Ride were pleasent surprises.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 17 August, 2012, 11:38:10 am
Duh!  Why don't I check the rain radar in the morning.  >:(

Just started a fairly light drizzle as I reached the end of my road.  I considered stopping to get my jacket on, but decided that it was not worth bothering.
Half a mile further on, I'm stopped at the side of the road in a downpour, struggling to get my jacket on over my now very wet top.  ::-)

As I approached work I noticed it was getting lighter and then, as I walked from the bike park to the staff entrance, it stopped.  :facepalm:

That would have been so very easy to avoid.  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 17 August, 2012, 12:02:24 pm
Raining when I left today but I generally don't bother about getting wet, fortunately it had stopped by the time I got into Wynthenshawe or I would have have ended up under the wheels of a van who decided to turn right on the roundabout from the left lane, even though I was on the brakes it locked up the back end. Adrenaline is brown.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 17 August, 2012, 12:31:34 pm
Wow, check out Gaz's experience on his way home from work yesterday:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eo_2C-W8SAw

Good response from Maintracts, btw. I bet that driver is now seriously regretting his behaviour.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 17 August, 2012, 01:14:24 pm
Interesting how the drivers attitude changes when the other cyclist pulls up and shows a warrent card.  ;D

I assume Gaz's cameras don't have a road side playback capability, but I did hear the officer look at the bike afterwards and observe something like that it is "a nice bit of kit".

As other commenters have observed the response from the company is commendable and the driver may get pulled up short.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 17 August, 2012, 01:35:21 pm
what kind of camera is it that gives the rear view as well as front view ? or does he have 2 cameras ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 17 August, 2012, 01:55:36 pm
Multiple cameras, I think Gaz has three onboard. I have two, that gives around 40GB of video per commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 17 August, 2012, 01:57:54 pm
Isn't that wonderful! Wouldn't we all love it if a plain clothes PC appeared every time some t--t has a go. Gaz must have thought his ship had come in (as the van driver's sank)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 17 August, 2012, 01:59:43 pm
Quote from: sg37409 on 17 August, 2012, 01:35:21 pm
what kind of camera is it that gives the rear view as well as front view ? or does he have 2 cameras ?

2 cameras, one helmet mounted (you can see him looking around) the other has to be mounted on the bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 17 August, 2012, 02:07:19 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 17 August, 2012, 01:55:36 pm
gives around 40GB of video per commute.

chr1st - and i thought my commuter weighed a ton too  ;D

do you usually end up deleting these ? quite fancy the idea of a camera but I'd get fed up with hassle on the very day i needed them.

thought the picture in picture format of his video is pretty cool
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 17 August, 2012, 04:28:35 pm
It doesn't take very long to copy the data and charge the cameras, then I'm ready for the next commute. I tend to keep the video for a few weeks and then delete. I don't bother with most of it, I'll only clip out the occasional interesting bit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 20 August, 2012, 09:16:35 am
Well after a lot of uneventful commutes, this morning I got rear ended. Waiting for x ray *sigh*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 20 August, 2012, 09:25:24 am
Bollox  :o

Where abouts, are you in Heatherwood, or Wexham? Where was the accident? Obviously as a local I would like to identify the hazzardous locations.

Hope the X-rays turn out to be clear, but more importantly how's the bike?  ;)

Was this in Fuzzy's patch by chance?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 20 August, 2012, 09:59:30 am
Quote from: Lady Cavendish on 20 August, 2012, 09:16:35 am
Well after a lot of uneventful commutes, this morning I got rear ended. Waiting for x ray *sigh*

Oh noes!! Commisserations, let's hope it's not too serious. How's the bike? Did you get their details?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 20 August, 2012, 11:36:34 am
Hope you're OK, Lady C.  And do you have another bike for the weekend?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 20 August, 2012, 11:52:55 am
Quote from: Lady Cavendish on 20 August, 2012, 09:16:35 am
Well after a lot of uneventful commutes, this morning I got rear ended. Waiting for x ray *sigh*

Sorry to hear this. Hope the damage isn't too serious. You don't seem to have been having an awful lot of luck lately.  :(

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 20 August, 2012, 11:54:47 am
I was in Maidenhead...... on way to work so a little out of Heatherwood territory. I'm costing the NHS a fortune at the moment.

My bike seems fine I think, and yes, this is only a commuting bike so I have another one, 2 actually with my TT bike as well.

I have a tiny crack in my collarbone. The closest I've got to a proper broken bone- does that mean I'm a proper cyclist now?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 20 August, 2012, 12:48:12 pm
'They' do say that you aren't a proper cyclist until you've cracked a collarbone. Heal well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 21 August, 2012, 10:43:27 am
*sigh*

Post-holiday zen is well and truly gone after last night (cars) and this morning (mostly cyclists).

Add to that almost hitting a pedestrian.  Peaceful Poplar High Street, woman walking on pavement to my left.  I could tell she was going to cross the road soon, not bothering to go as far as the zebra crossing.  (I acknowledge there is no requirement for her to use a designated crossing, and I myself often cross wherever it's convenient.)  I start slowing; she steps into the road without looking to her right (toward me).  When she gets to the middle of the lane she finally decides to look down the road, spots me... and stops dead in her tracks until I'm nearly on top of her (by this point moving very slowly in expectation of her numptiness).  She then gives me a dirty look and carries on.  I'll admit it - I almost hit her.  But that would have involved smacking her upside the head to knock some sense into her.

Is it too early to go on holiday again?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 21 August, 2012, 10:52:24 am
"At least one of us was looking, eh?"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 21 August, 2012, 12:39:45 pm
Other guy: "Nice bike."
Me: "Thanks. I waited 17 years for it."
OG: "Mercian are getting quicker then."

 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 21 August, 2012, 12:40:38 pm
overtaken by speeding moton, phone wedged under chin, making notes on a writing pad propped up on the steering wheel.  >:(

On the other hand, got a positive response from TfL to my suggestion that they remove the temporary barrier preventing bikes from turning right from Parliament Square into Parliament Street (Whitehall).  We'll see....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 21 August, 2012, 12:55:24 pm
Quote from: Paul on 21 August, 2012, 12:39:45 pm
Other guy: "Nice bike."
Me: "Thanks. I waited 17 years for it."
OG: "Mercian are getting quicker then."

 ;D

a classic :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 21 August, 2012, 11:32:56 pm
Jesus H Corbett:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dZCS3FLgYWM&feature=player_embedded

Flip me, there are some neanderthals out there, Gaz's video, not mine. Unbefrigginglievable.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 22 August, 2012, 01:28:50 am
Quote from: spindrift on 21 August, 2012, 11:32:56 pm
Jesus H Corbett:
Flip me, there are some neanderthals out there, Gaz's video, not mine. Unbefrigginglievable.

Fucking hell that was close.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 22 August, 2012, 02:13:25 am
What's the betting that the Police take no further action?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: peterc on 22 August, 2012, 08:46:30 am
On my usual route in. Rode up behind a bloke on an MTB of a certain age, I said hi as I passed and he asked if "I usually rode a recumbent" I said yes and we got chatting, I think he had recently started riding, so gave him a wheel to follow for as long as our routes were together.

Has parting comment was thanks, and that I had been "inspiring", I don't think I've been that before.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 22 August, 2012, 09:59:08 am
Quote from: peterc on 22 August, 2012, 08:46:30 am
... Has parting comment was thanks, and that I had been "inspiring", I don't think I've been that before.

Are you sure it wasn't perspiring? ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 August, 2012, 10:37:18 am
Quote from: Gandalf on 22 August, 2012, 02:13:25 am
What's the betting that the Police take no further action?

Almost certain.  I was hit on that junction by a taxi driver, who tried hard to flee, then attacked me.and flung my bike out of hos way.  The Police attended, dismissed witnesses without taking details, then let the driver go, and decided not to take any action.  Witness details I subsequently provided were not followed up, though the Police initially lied about having done so.

So - no injury?  No chance.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 22 August, 2012, 11:22:02 am
Quote from: spindrift on 21 August, 2012, 11:32:56 pm
Jesus H Corbett:
[vid snipped]
Flip me, there are some neanderthals out there, Gaz's video, not mine. Unbefrigginglievable.

Hmmm. That's an appallingly aggressive bit of driving. It should have been pretty obvious to the truck driver that the cyclist was intending to go straight on, and there's no excuse for trying to overtake at a pinch point like that (even if she'd been going left). However, she really didn't do herself any favours by hugging the kerb. Not great road sense. In that situation, I would have taken the lane (or maybe even moved across to the outside lane), and been doing lots of looking behind and signalling, just to make doubly sure that a) I was aware of what was coming up behind me, and b) that whatever was coming up behind me was aware of my intentions and didn't try anything stupid like that.

It's an atrociously bad example of junction design too - just asking for serious accidents.

Not that bad junction design or a cyclist's poor road sense in any way absolves the truck driver of blame for such dangerous, reckless, aggressive driving.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 22 August, 2012, 11:29:22 am
d.  I think you're being a little hard on the cyclist, who is presumably trying to make progress without being overly obstructive.  The cyclist has not signalled for a left turn, so the driver has no right to assume that the cyclist is going left.  I think the fault is ALL the driver's.  I agree that the cyclist MAY have made life easier by being out in the lane but it seems inlikely with that kind of driver behind!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 22 August, 2012, 12:09:22 pm
Faced with a horrible junction like that, I'd be far more concerned about self-preservation than whether or not I was being obstructive. The driver may well have been in the wrong, the cyclist blameless, but that's no consolation when you've been squashed by several tonnes of truck.

Heading southbound onto Westminster Bridge from Parliament Sq, cyclists are faced with a similar dilemma, with three lanes of traffic - the left hand lane to turn left, the right hand lane to go straight on, and one in the middle for both left and straight on. I'm usually going straight on, so I'll either take the whole of the middle lane or move into the right hand lane. I still sometimes get aggressive twats coming round me to turn left, but I'm sure it's far fewer than if I kept to the left.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 August, 2012, 12:18:02 pm
At Oval, I get into the middle and bomb down in a straight line.  I can (normally) keep up with the motor traffic on that section.  I feel sorry for less able cyclists, who have to suffer from both bad infrastructure and appallingly dangerous driving.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 22 August, 2012, 12:33:13 pm
Quote from: clarion on 22 August, 2012, 12:18:02 pm
I feel sorry for less able cyclists, who have to suffer from both bad infrastructure and appallingly dangerous driving.

A very fair point. I'm happy to mix with traffic because I can keep pace, but it really shouldn't be necessary - aside from motorist aggression, it's the speed-centric rather than safety-centric approach to road design that's the root of the problem here.

Although I think the cyclist in the vid could have protected herself better in that situation, I am very much against the promotion of "vehicular cycling", which seems to me to make about as much sense as a concept as "vehicular pedestrianism".

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 22 August, 2012, 12:51:17 pm
That video is absolutely unbelievable. It's obvious that, wherever she was on the bit of blue paint - she was going straight on. Had she been turning left she would have been in the filtering bus lane, as other cyclists are. This video needs inserting in media and replaying every time some one comes out with the storyline that "the cyclist undertook me when I was indicating left". If there isn't a dangerous driving charge coming forward from the CPS for this (it's far below the standard of a normal competent driver - shouldn't go with careless here), someone should be asking questions.

Can anyone forward this to TfL and the mayor's office so they can explain how blue paint makes life safer for cyclists? I'm outraged.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 22 August, 2012, 01:37:00 pm
Quote from: peterc on 22 August, 2012, 08:46:30 am
On my usual route in. Rode up behind a bloke on an MTB of a certain age, I said hi as I passed and he asked if "I usually rode a recumbent" I said yes and we got chatting

I had a similar conversation with the rider of a wheelchair-adapted motor tricycle the other day.  We've been seeing each other around and about for a while now and exchanging the universal "unusual form of transport" wave.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 22 August, 2012, 01:47:27 pm
Was left-hooked on way in this morning. Junction where cars can only turn left, I was going straight over/right. Car came alongside me when I was 6ft from white line and started pulling left. We both stopped, with car pressed against me. No harm done. Bloody moron driver, there was room for nearly 2 cars on my left.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 22 August, 2012, 02:33:24 pm
Quote from: SlowCoach on 22 August, 2012, 12:51:17 pm
That video is absolutely unbelievable. It's obvious that, wherever she was on the bit of blue paint - she was going straight on. Had she been turning left she would have been in the filtering bus lane, as other cyclists are. This video needs inserting in media and replaying every time some one comes out with the storyline that "the cyclist undertook me when I was indicating left". If there isn't a dangerous driving charge coming forward from the CPS for this (it's far below the standard of a normal competent driver - shouldn't go with careless here), someone should be asking questions.

Can anyone forward this to TfL and the mayor's office so they can explain how blue paint makes life safer for cyclists? I'm outraged.

I sent it to Jenny Jones and Ross Lydall. Jenny's on holibobs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 23 August, 2012, 09:32:38 am
lovely ride in today... until I got to work and discovered that the shower was broken.... :facepalm:

Happily, I rode in at a gentle pace rather than my (more usual) hell-for-leather-let's-race-the-taxis) speed  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 23 August, 2012, 10:25:05 am
Quote from: spindrift on 22 August, 2012, 02:33:24 pm
Quote from: SlowCoach on 22 August, 2012, 12:51:17 pm
That video is absolutely unbelievable. It's obvious that, wherever she was on the bit of blue paint - she was going straight on. Had she been turning left she would have been in the filtering bus lane, as other cyclists are. This video needs inserting in media and replaying every time some one comes out with the storyline that "the cyclist undertook me when I was indicating left". If there isn't a dangerous driving charge coming forward from the CPS for this (it's far below the standard of a normal competent driver - shouldn't go with careless here), someone should be asking questions.

Can anyone forward this to TfL and the mayor's office so they can explain how blue paint makes life safer for cyclists? I'm outraged.

I sent it to Jenny Jones and Ross Lydall. Jenny's on holibobs.

That left hand lane needs a big painted cycle and a straight on arrow so that it is bloody obvious to any driver that a cyclist in that lane is NOT turning left.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 23 August, 2012, 12:42:35 pm
Last nights ride home was afflicted by a desire to explore so my 7.5 mile average commute home from Maidenhead to Marlow turned into an 18 mile version via Henley. Wondercrump :thumbsup:

This mornings ride in was similarly afflicted so the 7.5 mile average ride turned into a 9.75 mile jaunt via Hurley and a visitation. Oddly, I found I didn't give a toss about the visitation. It was dry, it was cool and I was enjoying myself 8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 23 August, 2012, 01:07:36 pm
So far this week, I've racked up a mere 48km of commuting, partly because I've sarificed a couple of morning rides to go swimming instead. Got me thinking... I could, in theory, swim to work. I live near the sea and work is right by the Thames... It's straight up the Thames estuary... Easy!

I've plotted it into bikeroutetoaster and it comes out as 92km.

d.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 23 August, 2012, 01:14:42 pm
You might have to leave a bit earlier than usual, I guess.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 23 August, 2012, 02:34:14 pm
And plan for the tide. Great excuse though: "Sorry I'm late, Spring tide you see"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 23 August, 2012, 03:14:52 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 23 August, 2012, 01:07:36 pm
So far this week, I've racked up a mere 48km of commuting, partly because I've sarificed a couple of morning rides to go swimming instead. Got me thinking... I could, in theory, swim to work. I live near the sea and work is right by the Thames... It's straight up the Thames estuary... Easy!

I've plotted it into bikeroutetoaster and it comes out as 92km.

d.
Doing the backstroke as you pass Tilbury at high tide could be *ahem* interesting....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 23 August, 2012, 03:21:47 pm
Hmmm, yes, it seems there are some potential flaws in this plan...

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 23 August, 2012, 03:24:58 pm
The Thames barrier potentially being the biggest, as riding a storm/tidal surge upstream seems the easiest way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 23 August, 2012, 03:51:22 pm
Get a Pedalo :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 23 August, 2012, 10:17:44 pm
Not today but Tuesday I saw a bike with a (N)ever Ready light on the rear rack. Not sure if it's twin was on the front but astounded that anyone would actually still use one.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 23 August, 2012, 10:20:29 pm
I have a colleague who has a set on his bike, but they are effectively the backups for failure of his main lights.
Title: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 23 August, 2012, 11:42:20 pm
Quote from: fuzzy on 23 August, 2012, 03:51:22 pm
Get a Pedalo :thumbsup:

Now there's a thought!

I noticed that according to bikeroutetoaster, there's a 6m elevation gain over the journey - perhaps instead of swimming to work, I should swim home from work - it's downhill all the way!

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 24 August, 2012, 10:34:54 am
Going over Lambeth bridge, I went to overtake a guy twiddling up the rise very slowly, but had to wait because when I looked over my shoulder a guy on a Brommie was overtaking me.

The Gazelle is singlespeed so to avoid grinding to a complete halt I had to overtake both twiddling man and Brommie man. Brommie man looked at me as I passed so I smiled and explained ‘I only have one gear!’
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 24 August, 2012, 10:38:03 am
I bet he thought you were boasting!!! Good on you!

I went to the CC Mirch Masala meet last night, awesomeness. I wasn't totally sure of my way home, so had some great help from CycleGaz's videos linking the bits I didn't know together. How cool was that!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 24 August, 2012, 10:55:21 am
I thought that after Mikey…I tried to say it in a sort of apologetic way rather than one that suggested ‘… and I’m STILL faster than you, haha!’

I’ve still got my Union flag fluttering on the back of the bike from the Olympics (well, the Paralympics are nearly here). It’s funny how fluttery things make drivers give you more room. I might keep it forever.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 24 August, 2012, 11:24:12 am
I averaged 27.3kph this morning. Would have bettered that if it wasn't for slow, slow cyclists and slow, slow cars.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 24 August, 2012, 12:43:34 pm
I am nearly fit enough to do my commute.  All I need now is for six weeks of school closure resulting in quiet roads and some good weather, then I will be ready for Winter.

This morning I didn't see a single cyclist.  Last night I saw a few, the first was waiting in traffic that I overtook. The second zoomed past me.  I caught someone in team kit on a road bike at a traffic light.  I expected him to zoom off leaving me to plod behind. So I sat behind him as we climbed a short hill, he wasn't climbing fast but I permitted a gap to appear so he did not accuse me of wheel sucking.  On the next false flat I realised he was not going to accelerate away so I resumed my normal pace.  As I passed him he said something about being exhausted so I can not count that as a victory.
 
Title: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 24 August, 2012, 09:27:25 pm
What's the thing about luck and black cats crossing your path? Had a near miss with a black cat this morning. It ran out in front of me. I was going quite fast at the time. I yelled. And braked quite hard. It changed direction. We avoided each other. Lucky. For both of us.

Should have taken heed of the omen though - monumentally shit day at work today. Didn't get out of the office until nearly 8pm. Went straight for the train rather than the usual post work ride. Now feeling frustrated.

Ho hum.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 24 August, 2012, 09:40:55 pm
<Not commute but we don't have a Random thread in OTR>
I've now heard but not seen two crashes in two days.

The first was a left hook. I was on foot, bike coming up the inside of a queue of stationary traffic, then somewhere behind me heard a 'clunk'. Handlebar vs mirror. Seems to have been slow, no injuries. No idea if driver was already turning and cyclist rode into side or if driver started turning as he was alongside.

Second was more worrying as it happened at the end of my street. There's a fairly steep hill, silver car going down it at reasonable speed, blue car which I think came out of a roadside garden or else moved off from the kerb into silver one. No injuries again but a lot of crashy noise. I go down there at 20mph or more, I'm always scanning the side streets but could I stop?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Poursuivant on 27 August, 2012, 04:08:18 pm
[It's not a holiday north of the border]

[*other high-sugar snacks are available]
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bloomers100 on 28 August, 2012, 08:54:25 am
(http://i751.photobucket.com/albums/xx158/Bloomers100/IMAG0301.jpg)

First commute after two and a bit weeks off, a lovely morning. Sadly they're not mountains in the background, they're the back ends of clouds from last night's rain.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: welshwheels on 28 August, 2012, 08:26:21 pm
I did intend to add a few miles on this evening but I wanted to rush home and feed the baby instead  give mrw w w a break for a few hours  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 28 August, 2012, 09:00:29 pm
Managed to faff less (i.e. I didn't turn on the computer) this morning so extended the ride in to 20 miles and still got to work earlier than normal. Not only that but I have a slight tailwind and got to ride with a chap I haven't seen for a while who is good riding company.

Also extended the ride home to just over 20 miles but was harder work into the wind and I was a bit tired so home a bit late. And getting a bit of discomfort from my new saddle so umming and ahhing over which to use for my audax at the weekend. At least this feels more like bruising/pressure on the sit bones rather than the tender skin I was getting.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 28 August, 2012, 10:30:43 pm
Quote from: Ashaman42 on 23 August, 2012, 10:17:44 pm
Not today but Tuesday I saw a bike with a (N)ever Ready light on the rear rack. Not sure if it's twin was on the front but astounded that anyone would actually still use one.


I have been tempted to swap out the bulb for a high value LED eyeburner..
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 29 August, 2012, 05:28:28 am
Nearly knocked off on the way into work tonight. Wrong side of road, black clothing, no lights, texting....POBSO.

Had the lack of understanding to call out a cheery "Hiya, mate!"

I politely suggested some lights might help.

[digs into Julian's insult list...OK. Fartokapi. That should do it.]
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 29 August, 2012, 09:19:53 am
This morning I saw a bloke on a BSO so low that from a distance I thought he was on a recumbent. I'm glad I don't have to use his knees.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 29 August, 2012, 09:59:11 am
Last night I added some comedy off roading into my commute, coming into Croydon from slightly further west, and crossing over Mitcham Common (http://www.gpsies.com/map.do?fileId=fdmagwyjsfvdsbtr) on the Common proper, to avoid the busy road across it.

I had to use the Joystick rather than Race light (only one emitter vs two), because due to limited handlebar space on Vince, the Race and the GPS interfere, so not quite as well lit as I could have been.  Still, it was a clear night, so it wasn't too bad, and I didn't go significantly wrong, which is always an option when trying to find ill defined paths in grass, across an unlit area of grass and weeds.

The slight hummock I went over, instead of around as in my previous excursion across the common, turned out to be surprisingly steep for a short section, and I had to resort to walking for a couple of minutes, because Vince's single gear wasn't quite up to that incline, on a rough surface (I should have left the original 52" gearing on!).

The second bit, along a short path, which is clearly used by pedestrians to avoid a longer route around, was more like single track, and very clearly defined, so I could bomb along it, relatively safe from any pedestrians, because without a good light, it would have been pitch black.

It only added a couple of miles to the commute, and made it quite fun, although at wetter times of year, I suspect that the off road bits could get boggy.

My route also took me past Mitcham Eastfields station, and the railway crossing barriers were down.  Luckily however, I almost time it perfectly, and only a single train went through, almost as I arrived, so I barely had to put a foot down, before being able to duck under the barriers as they went up, and get to the junction (where I was turning right), before the queue of cars could catch up with me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 29 August, 2012, 10:18:30 am
Had my first ever ‘Lucky saddle!’ shouted at me.  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 29 August, 2012, 10:21:06 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 29 August, 2012, 10:18:30 am
Had my first ever ‘Lucky saddle!’ shouted at me.  ::-)

I've had that, I was flattered. Even though my bike doesn't have a saddle.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 29 August, 2012, 11:29:24 am
Another day of 'short route' commuting.  It has been suggested I leave the bike at home and use the Tube for a few days but my spirits are low enough already due to my lack of vim and vigour.  Better a short (if exhausting) cycle ride than the despair of the Underground.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 29 August, 2012, 11:51:22 am
An unmarked car overtook me and put the blue lights on. I was thinking Uh oh! for the car in front of him, but turns out it was my mate saying hello. LOL!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Marco Stefano on 29 August, 2012, 07:48:08 pm
Yesterday (I am late, sorry) the River Little Ouse was flowing uphill. They do that sometimes in the Fens. Nice ride though.

Tomorrow is forecast to be tailwind both morning and evening. That is surely too good to miss.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 30 August, 2012, 06:19:22 pm
Hard work riding home.  Wind.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 30 August, 2012, 07:36:48 pm
Pretty windy here too but tonights commute took me over 1,000miles for August  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dibdib on 30 August, 2012, 07:42:53 pm
Not my commute, but possibly theirs:

Dear [names of clots on the Great Western Way cycle path]: I know you want a chat, but riding three-abreast and blocking the ENTIRE width of the path?  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 30 August, 2012, 07:53:46 pm
Quote from: Dibdib on 30 August, 2012, 07:42:53 pm
Not my commute, but possibly theirs:

Dear [names of clots on the Great Western Way cycle path]: I know you want a chat, but riding three-abreast and blocking the ENTIRE width of the path?  :facepalm:

They sound like the dog emptiers I encounter on my commute.  Extra points for doing it on a bend with poor sight lines.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dibdib on 30 August, 2012, 07:55:48 pm
Quote from: Gandalf on 30 August, 2012, 07:53:46 pm
Quote from: Dibdib on 30 August, 2012, 07:42:53 pm
Not my commute, but possibly theirs:

Dear [names of clots on the Great Western Way cycle path]: I know you want a chat, but riding three-abreast and blocking the ENTIRE width of the path?  :facepalm:

They sound like the dog emptiers I encounter on my commute.  Extra points for doing it on a bend with poor sight lines.

Oh when I rise to power they will be the first against the wall. My favourites are the ones with the jet-black trip wires extendable leads.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 30 August, 2012, 08:04:51 pm
Going completely off-topic for a second, on the subjest of dog-emptying, I noticed an amusing sight while admiring the cloud-spotting platform at Anderby Creek (https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=10.msg1301472#msg1301472).  It appears that a dog had randomly decided to start emptying itself against the corner of the platform, its owner had noticed, and attempted to rectify the situation by dragging the dog away on its lead.  The resulting sinusoidal trail in the sand revealed that the dog had sphincter reaction times similar to someone getting attacked by a malfunctioning Class 220 vacuum toilet (DAHIKT), and one particular dribble bore a passing resemblance to a CDC.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Reg.T on 31 August, 2012, 08:29:18 am
4.5 Celsius this sunny morning, at 7:45. In August (just).

It looked like I wasn't the only cyclist unprepared for the autumnal start to the day - plenty of bare knees and arms on display.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 31 August, 2012, 09:03:40 am
Aye 3 degrees here at 06:00
Frost on car windows and on the grass.
Cold ride in even in longs, particularly on the descents.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 31 August, 2012, 09:15:07 am
3C! wtf?
Title: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 31 August, 2012, 06:40:40 pm
Yeah, flipping cold this morning. And a stinking northerly headwind. Not nice.

Does that mean it's autumn now? Sigh.

I've also noticed the evenings getting darker significantly earlier. Must sort out my lighting this weekend - I was caught out last night because I was late out of work. Only had a rear light, no working front light... Luckily, I only had to ride the short hop from the station to home, plus it was a full moon and a clear sky, so I took a chance (using the quiet back lanes route). It's actually quite nice to ride by moonlight, though I wouldn't necessarily endorse or recommend it.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 01 September, 2012, 12:25:50 am
Every day this week, I've used a different route home.  Today's route involved going across Mitcham Common, using a road called Watneys Road, which has been blocked off at both ends by concrete blocks.  Once it was obviously a normal bidirectional single carriageway road, but now somewhat overgrown on both sides, there's only a single carriageway width clear, which I guess is fine for pedestrians and cyclists, who will be the only ones using it.

Rather bizarrely though, it has a complete set of normal street lighting, so you're on an utterly abandoned road, with no risk of any motor vehicles appearing, and it's fully lit!  Presumably they can get a van with a cherry picker past the concrete blocks (although I'm not sure how), because someone must have replaced the bulbs in the lights.  I'm not sure why they've made sure the lights are fully working, because it doesn't really provide a route going anywhere that useful (and there are still actively used roads not that far away).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 02 September, 2012, 04:21:12 pm
You know when you're approaching a car waiting to turn right across your path and they try to nip in between you and a following vehicle so begin their turn as you near? Just happened, so I slam the anchors on and the driver brakes then has to reverse because the car behind is approaching. I glance at the driver and he's muttering, his girlfriend throws her hands in the air. I don't know you've seen me and are going to stop, best not try nippy little jerky manoevers as I'm going past. Kid on a Boardman behind me caught up and said that had just happened to him.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 02 September, 2012, 04:41:45 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 02 September, 2012, 04:21:12 pm
You know when you're approaching a car waiting to turn right across your path and they try to nip in between you and a following vehicle so begin their turn as you near? Just happened, so I slam the anchors on and the driver brakes then has to reverse because the car behind is approaching. I glance at the driver and he's muttering, his girlfriend throws her hands in the air. I don't know you've seen me and are going to stop, best not try nippy little jerky manoevers as I'm going past. Kid on a Boardman behind me caught up and said that had just happened to him.

I call this the parallel turn of wank
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 03 September, 2012, 08:35:28 am
Not me, but Mike Hall, round-the-world record holder, got hassled, and wacked on the arse while car passengers filmed it.  He was shaken up - it was very nearly a nasty accident.

Good news is that at least one person is in police custody already  :thumbsup:  South Wales police ftw
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 03 September, 2012, 08:44:55 am
B0ll0cks, I went half-way through a red light. Egg on my face and cross with myself.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 03 September, 2012, 11:45:23 am
Quote from: TimO on 01 September, 2012, 12:25:50 am
Every day this week, I've used a different route home.  Today's route involved going across Mitcham Common, using a road called Watneys Road, which has been blocked off at both ends by concrete blocks.  Once it was obviously a normal bidirectional single carriageway road, but now somewhat overgrown on both sides, there's only a single carriageway width clear, which I guess is fine for pedestrians and cyclists, who will be the only ones using it.

Rather bizarrely though, it has a complete set of normal street lighting, so you're on an utterly abandoned road, with no risk of any motor vehicles appearing, and it's fully lit!  Presumably they can get a van with a cherry picker past the concrete blocks (although I'm not sure how), because someone must have replaced the bulbs in the lights.  I'm not sure why they've made sure the lights are fully working, because it doesn't really provide a route going anywhere that useful (and there are still actively used roads not that far away).

I walk the dog on Mitcham Common at weekends and am very familiar with that road. It always makes me think of the zombie apocalypse. It's sort of grown over, but not very grown over, yet it's been like that for years and years.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 September, 2012, 01:11:26 pm
I've ridden it several times.  It's kinda cool.  A peep into a future world with fewer cars.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Palinurus on 03 September, 2012, 07:14:38 pm
Arrived home today and one of my neighbours was looking at me while I was wheeling my bike up the alleyway.

-You ride that bike fast-

she says.

-I saw you when I got off the motorway (about five miles away) and you arrived at the same time as me-

I don't ride fast. This morning I was overtaken by a bloke on a MTB wearing jeans. I didn't even bother to chase, he was going pretty good.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 03 September, 2012, 07:52:09 pm
Amazing how people overestimate the speed of their cars, isn't it?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 03 September, 2012, 08:37:27 pm
The bus that picks up people from work can't beat me to the train station, 4 miles. Colleagues who drive usually catch me after three miles, the difference in door-to-door times over 5 miles for them versus me isn't anything much.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 03 September, 2012, 09:05:27 pm
Quote from: yellowhammer on 03 September, 2012, 08:43:06 pm
Turned off the usual route and went across the marshes for a change. Rode  through a herd of pregnant cows very gingerly then along the sea wall for a bit. Found a huge swarm of flying ants, ate a fair few of them. Stopped to watch the Cetti's warblers, picked some damsons, bunny-hopped a slow worm. I do like this single-speed lark. ;D

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8298/7923903258_fb5b4518d6_z.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/7961016@N07/7923903258/)
The long way home (http://www.flickr.com/photos/7961016@N07/7923903258/) by yellowhammer_01 (http://www.flickr.com/people/7961016@N07/), on Flickr

Envious of pretty much all of that, YH.
I'm well overdue a ride down to your neck of the woods - hopefully soon.
J
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 03 September, 2012, 10:25:56 pm
I had one of my Paris-Brest-Paris jerseys on today and somewhere near Elephant & Castle a guy came alongside and asked me what it was like.  i told him it was great and that he should do it.  So, if you're here, sir, you have just under 3 years to prepare.  Go for it!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 03 September, 2012, 10:33:58 pm
After eight years and tens of thousands of miles of serious cyclo-commuting, I had my first off this afternoon.

Kingston one-way, 90 degree sweeping right through the lights followed by a 90 degree left over a raised, bricked entry ramp. As I crested the rise of the ramp the front wheel went light and disappeared. Ouch. I have a perfect set of markings on my left ankle, knee, hip, elbow, wrist and little finger base knuckle. Weirdly there's a raw patch on my right hand between my knuckles. I can't work out how that happened at all. They're all a really quite astonishing shade of bright red. At least I was low enough down that I didn't actually fall that far. Both brake levers were out of line (easily corrected), left lever was scuffed, left bar tape has a tear or two, but most annoyingly of all my Ortlieb laptop bag has been holed. Two passers-by stopped and checked if I was alright (very nice of them).

Given some of the horror stories I see on here I think I've got off pretty lightly. It didn't really hurt at the time, doesn't hurt now and all wounds stopped weeping an hour or two ago. No grit anywhere. Should be back on the bike tomorrow.

And I always thought it would never happen to me.

(And what's the best way to repair a holed Ortlieb pannier ?)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wowbagger on 03 September, 2012, 10:35:07 pm
Quote from: hatler on 03 September, 2012, 10:33:58 pm
After eight years and tens of thousands of miles of serious cyclo-commuting, I had my first off this afternoon.

Kingston one-way, 90 degree sweeping right through the lights followed by a 90 degree left over a raised, bricked entry ramp. As I crested the rise of the ramp the front wheel went light and disappeared. Ouch. I have a perfect set of markings on my left ankle, knee, hip, elbow, wrist and little finger base knuckle. Weirdly there's a raw patch on my right hand between my knuckles. I can't work out how that happened at all. They're all a really quite astonishing shade of bright red. At least I was low enough down that I didn't actually fall that far. Both brake levers were out of line (easily corrected), left lever was scuffed, left bar tape has a tear or two, but most annoyingly of all my Ortlieb laptop bag has been holed. Two passers-by stopped and checked if I was alright (very nice of them).

Given some of the horror stories I see on here I think I've got off pretty lightly. It didn't really hurt at the time, doesn't hurt now and all wounds stopped weeping an hour or two ago. No grit anywhere. Should be back on the bike tomorrow.

And I always thought it would never happen to me.

(And what's the best way to repair a holed Ortlieb pannier ?)
I believe Kim has some experience of patching Ortliebs.

I'm glad that you weren't too badly hurt, and that the bike escaped mostly unscathed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 September, 2012, 11:28:58 pm
GWS, Hatler
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 04 September, 2012, 12:32:26 am
Quote from: Wowbagger on 03 September, 2012, 10:35:07 pm
Quote from: hatler on 03 September, 2012, 10:33:58 pm
(And what's the best way to repair a holed Ortlieb pannier ?)
I believe Kim has some experience of patching Ortliebs.

Indeed.  The thread's here (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=51131.0).


GWS, those bricked bits are a work of Stan!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 04 September, 2012, 08:05:09 am
Sounds like you were lucky it wasn't more serious, Rob.
GWS.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 04 September, 2012, 09:46:14 am
Thank you all for your kind words, and Kim for pointing me at that thread. Most useful.

Back on bike today. Red bits are tender if knocked but otherwise no worries.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 04 September, 2012, 09:49:59 am
At the top of New Kent Road I found myself chatting briefly at the lights with a lady on what looked like a traditional step-through tourer, complete with head tube shifters. I was warning her to watch out for another cyclist who had been riding dangerously along NKR and had just pushed past us to get near the front of the bunch of waiting cyclists.

Although we spoke for only a few seconds, she had the most gorgeous voice that the thought of it kept me smiling all the way to work.   :)  Of such encounters are good days made.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 04 September, 2012, 10:01:14 am
Quote from: hatler on 04 September, 2012, 09:46:14 am
Thank you all for your kind words, and Kim for pointing me at that thread. Most useful.

Back on bike today. Red bits are tender if knocked but otherwise no worries.
Well done for getting back on the bike and I'm glad to hear it is ok.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 04 September, 2012, 10:09:56 am
GWS hatler!

This morning, a combination of alarm clock fuckwittery (set it an hour before I thought I had) and catfight in the garden noise led to me dragging my sorry arse out of my pit prior to the optimum time. I therfrore decided to extend a little bit. Instead of turning up Quarry Wood Road, I continued on and into Bisham and then Temple, following the footpath and farm track route that led to my most recent visitation. I think the faerie had stayed in bed as I got to Hurley without incident. I then made my way along the A4130, getting a cheery beep from a truck driver who I pulled over to let past as we topped a bit of a rise.

After negotiating the Burchetts Green roundabout and riding towards Maidenhead, I decided not to take the Pinkneys green turn and continued on to Maidenhead Thicket and then left along the A4 into Maidenhead and Chez Plod.

Only about 3/4 of a mile further than my current regular route but a pleasant change (apart from the muck spreading debris on the farm track :sick: ).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 04 September, 2012, 11:03:39 am
I had a snake bite puncture caused by a manhole cover, only about 1/4 mile from work so I walked the rest of the way and fixed it in the office.

I also had a car overtake, in a 40mph limit, between me and oncoming traffic, at >60mph, I reckon. And another aggressive overtake between oncoming traffic at a zebra crossing.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 04 September, 2012, 11:19:14 am
Hear sirens as I neared London Street last night and slowed, then got off and walked towards a middle-aged man in a suit being violently arrested:

"I'm fed up with this repression from PCOs!"

the man said.

The copper replied in an even, resigned tone:

"PCSOs!"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 04 September, 2012, 11:45:55 am
Just out of the front door this morning walking the lad to the bus stop when a Citroen Saxo or similar floored it. I ambled out in front of him with my bike and did my best stern authoritarian look, held up three fingers and mouthed "thirty" very clearly. He looked really really pissed off.

Will that change his behaviour do you think ?   Unless transgressors are challenged I think that they don't think that there is any problem in what they are doing. Should I ask the local Residents' Association to do the same ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 04 September, 2012, 11:51:12 am
Quote from: Redlight on 04 September, 2012, 09:49:59 am
head tube shifters.

I had a bike with same some years ago.
53 yrs ago :o

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 04 September, 2012, 12:14:00 pm
Quote from: hatler on 04 September, 2012, 11:45:55 am
Just out of the front door this morning walking the lad to the bus stop when a Citroen Saxo or similar floored it. I ambled out in front of him with my bike and did my best stern authoritarian look, held up three fingers and mouthed "thirty" very clearly. He looked really really pissed off.

Will that change his behaviour do you think ?   Unless transgressors are challenged I think that they don't think that there is any problem in what they are doing. Should I ask the local Residents' Association to do the same ?

Well done you. That's very brave/foolhardy. But definitely the right thing to do. I doubt it will change his behaviour though.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 04 September, 2012, 12:35:21 pm
Thank you. I've done this a handfull of times before, and only once has the thug got out of the car to make something of it. I advanced purposefully toward him (looking as mean as possible, which isn't very) and he backed off, got into his car and hared off.

Today was unusual in that I did it with my bike. I've only ever done this on foot before so have had an easy route out by diving either left or right. Not so easy with the bike. I perhaps need to think a bit harder about trying it with a bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 04 September, 2012, 01:36:21 pm
Sorry to hear bout your off Hatler.

I did the long version of my commute home (aka do an extra 8 miles but avoid the 25% hill of DOOM on the slightly overgeared commuting bike).
It was a bit head-windy, drizzly and misty up at altitude despite a 'dry' forecast, and I had that 'hidden eyes watching you' sensation as I rode through Priddy in the mist. There was a 'Priddy sheep fayre cancelled' sign with no explanation that looked kind of sinister. Total 50 miles for both ways. I'm a bit knackered now after 24 hours awake.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 04 September, 2012, 01:47:03 pm
Fast run in today (well, fast for me) - would have broken 40 minutes door to door were it not for the sodding traffic lights on Malton Road. I'd almost forgotten how much fun the 1x1 is to ride, even in its slick-shod road mode.

Saw a few interesting machines on the way in, too - a woman on a black Surly (mentioned in spotting thread) and a guy on a very nice looking Alfine-equipped Charge Mixer. Sadly, the niceness of his bike was somewhat sullied by the fact that the rider had the road sense you'd normally associated with, say, a dead fish. And then there was the hipster on the singlespeed: if you're going to do the one-gear thing, at least do it properly ...

Oh, and the sun was out.

Which was nice.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 04 September, 2012, 01:52:52 pm
There is a really nice-looking dark green Surly LHT around in York atm. A matched pair of Airnimal Joey's as well, with drop-barred touring setup.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 04 September, 2012, 01:56:28 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 04 September, 2012, 01:52:52 pm
There is a really nice-looking dark green Surly LHT around in York atm. A matched pair of Airnimal Joey's as well, with drop-barred touring setup.
At some point in the near future, I'm going to ride in on Pugsley.

That ought to turn a few heads1

1 - and maybe some stomachs.

EDIT: a dark green Trucker would be the 2012 model - I suspect it might belong to someone at Cycle HellHeaven, since they're now QBP dealers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 04 September, 2012, 07:50:58 pm
Quote from: hatler on 04 September, 2012, 11:45:55 am
Just out of the front door this morning walking the lad to the bus stop when a Citroen Saxo or similar floored it. I ambled out in front of him with my bike and did my best stern authoritarian look, held up three fingers and mouthed "thirty" very clearly. He looked really really pissed off.

Will that change his behaviour do you think ?

Back in the day before such things were easily recognisable household items, my dad used to get terrific results by pulling out his analogue brick-phone and unsubtly pointing it at the speeding motorists on his walk to/from the station...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 04 September, 2012, 09:21:05 pm
Off to Peckham police station shortly to report the incident that occurred on the way home. On the approach to the toll gate in Dulwich I was passed by an Audi in a dreadful hurry to get to the barrier before me. There was no space to use the cycle by-pass so I stayed behind and then waited for the Audi to move off before moving back left to pass the barrier. As I passed the booth the keeper shouted 'No! The barrier!' and I was half way through the second word of 'I know about the barrier.' when he grabbed my right arm and pulled it back. This turned the front wheel under me and sent me straight over the bars. The gate keeper refused to give me any details, either of himself, his manager or his employers. After a while he started to take delight in his inability to remember anything about himself or his situation. When another cyclist was clipped by the barrier as it came down he stormed over and demanded the guy's details - I rather tore into him from that point. When I explained that I had little option but to report the incident to the police he was quite smug. After talking to the police and being told that I had to report the incident as an assault and that they would then gain his details through his employer I told him how things stood but he still wouldn't back down. Although now he looked a lot less sure of himself and rather deflated. I think from that point I gave him four more chances to give me contact details rather than go through what I said I thought was a rather heavy handed process, but no, I'm off to the police station.
Damage isn't extensive, but it's all lightweight, shiny carbon stuff on the bike so I'll have to get it checked out. Me - puffy ankle and sore ribs from where I came down on the bars. Plus the normal collection of small holes on knee, hip, elbow and shoulder.

Arse.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 September, 2012, 10:00:57 pm
Good grief, that's appalling.  I hope the Police do take it seriously, and that you GWS.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 05 September, 2012, 12:05:35 am
Cheers clarion. Just waiting for the last bus out of Peckham now. I'm really starting to resent the complications that cycling through Dulwich entails. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 05 September, 2012, 09:23:52 am
In no particular order:


But at least it wasn't raining.

1 - The "I didn't see you" line won't wash. I'm far too big to be ornamental and my bike is a brain-curdling shade of yellow, although I wasn't wearing my Extremely Orange jacket. No, the reason you didn't see me is that you never bothered to look behind you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 05 September, 2012, 10:50:07 am
Quote from: benborp on 04 September, 2012, 09:21:05 pm
...tale of woe...

I'm a bit confused – he grabbed you for using the bypass on the left? Or he thought the barrier was going to fall on your head? And how did it hit the second cyclist – I'd never ride under the barrier because they do tend to fall on heads (now there's a reason to wear a helmet). [Come to think of it, I'm pretty sure it's a legal requirement these days to fit sensors to ensure they don't do this, last year I had to pay a small fortune to have my electric gates fitted with sensors to stop them squishing even the smallest of people.]

I usually cycle that route through Dulwich (unless I feel like a meander), and the only problems I have the toll gate are indeed those drivers who have to get there first and block me from the barrier bypass as they then spend five minutes locating spare change. They're dicks and there's probably little point me reminding them of the obvious. I just roll my eyes and wait for them to get on their way. I usually get a nod of weary acknowledgement from the guy in the booth.

That and the roundabout at the top of Fountain Drive, where most car drivers assume that the give-way-to-the-right rule doesn't apply to cyclists emerging from the hill. There may be a section in their special edition Highway Code that covers this.

Anyway, toll booth man will either be an employee – or possibly via subcontract – to the The Dulwich Estate who own the road.

Mind you, my alternative route is through the Democratic Republic of Peckham so it's the case of mummy's distracted 4x4 versus the uninsured marijuana locomotive.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 05 September, 2012, 01:21:14 pm
Quote from: ian on 05 September, 2012, 10:50:07 am
I usually cycle that route through Dulwich (unless I feel like a meander), and the only problems I have the toll gate are indeed those drivers who have to get there first and block me from the barrier bypass as they then spend five minutes locating spare change. They're dicks and there's probably little point me reminding them of the obvious. I just roll my eyes and wait for them to get on their way. I usually get a nod of weary acknowledgement from the guy in the booth.

This is why I tend to hog the road on the approach to the gate. You still sometimes get numpties overtaking you and cutting in sharply but it deters most. Very annoying.

I've never had a problem with the chap in the booth, though I did once come off when descending Fountain Drive, approaching the barrier too fast, thinking I could sneak under behind a car that was just going through ahead of me, then changing my mind at the last moment when I realised I was risking a knock on the noggin...

It was too slippery to risk braking, but I managed to squeeze through the bike lane then got stuck in the gutter, ran along the kerb for a bit then tumbled off. I've always been a bit more circumspect in my approach to the barrier since then.

Quote
That and the roundabout at the top of Fountain Drive, where most car drivers assume that the give-way-to-the-right rule doesn't apply to cyclists emerging from the hill. There may be a section in their special edition Highway Code that covers this.

I've often felt glad that I don't turn right there, though it's bad enough turning left then trying to get across into the right hand lane to go straight on rather than left at the second roundabout...

Quote
Mind you, my alternative route is through the Democratic Republic of Peckham so it's the case of mummy's distracted 4x4 versus the uninsured marijuana locomotive.

If I'm feeling brave, I'll go down the A2, make the suicidal right turn into Trafalgar Ave then through Peckham, Nunhead and Catford, and up Bromley Hill. It's not a route for the faint-hearted, but I reckon it's the quickest and most direct.

I sometimes go the usual way through E&C and Camberwell but turn left at Denmark Hill and up Lordship Lane (which has its own special attractions) then up Sydenham Hill and down the back streets through Beckenham and Bromley. Apart from that first bit, that's probably the quietest of the regular routes I use.

All my various routes have their plus and minus points. None of them is perfect, not by a very long stretch of the imagination. Ho hum.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 05 September, 2012, 03:18:45 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 05 September, 2012, 01:21:14 pm
If I'm feeling brave, I'll go down the A2, make the suicidal right turn into Trafalgar Ave then through Peckham, Nunhead and Catford, and up Bromley Hill. It's not a route for the faint-hearted, but I reckon it's the quickest and most direct.


Must admit I rather like the A202/A2/A21 route up Bromley Hill. Mostly it's OK, and it's definitely the quickest and most direct.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 05 September, 2012, 07:16:25 pm
I always take primary when approaching the toll gates – this just forces the usual motorised comedians to use the other side of the road so they can wedge in first. It's odd behaviour, I'm not going to slow them down – I'm not the one who needs to stop at the barrier, I can go around it. Still rationalising some drivers is like psychoanalysing a slug, you are probably wasting your time.

Fortunately the Fountain Drive roundabout is large and generally the traffic is not so heavy, you just have to expect some drivers to see you and continue straight across regardless that you're already on the roundabout and turning right. It's not pleasant though (and I've seen several wrecked cars there) and not helped by the preceding roundabout coming up the hill from the other side. I agree that one's a pain too. I fell off near there, turned on sludgy mush of leaves and discarded hydrocarbons – well that was the time my bike went without me and did a somersault while I did a very graceful dismount, and of course, there was no one to bloody see me being super-cool.

I usually roughly follow LCN routes 22 and 23 (I think 23 technically goes around the back of Fountain Drive, up Farquhar Road). LCN 22 goes up through Peckham and Nunhead. But sometimes I daydream myself into inadvertently different routes (Lordship Lane, though sometimes to avoid the traffic I skip down Crystal Palace Rd and rejoin it later on, and then up past the Horniman).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 05 September, 2012, 07:41:49 pm
I love Peckham.  I have lived and  worked in or very near it for most of my adult life.  Great place.  Some great bars, cafes, art spaces.  Will show Peckham distrusters around anytime if they wish. (Maybe I should do a Peckham Ride!)
I have had more problems on the bike when I worked for a couple of years in North Kensington and my commute was through Clapham, Battersea, Chelsea, East Fulham.  Nasty traffic in those days.  Biggest problems for me on the commute in Peckham today- cyclists treating Rye Lane as a race track and zooming past me on my left just as the lights began to change and I, previously, sat patiently at the red, began to move off again.  Also, as I moved off from the light at the top of the lane, somebody (again a cyclist) swerved past on my right straight into my line of travel.  Caught them both later and had a hard time beating down the smug within.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 05 September, 2012, 08:46:48 pm
Quote from: interzen on 04 September, 2012, 01:47:03 pm
And then there was the hipster on the singlespeed: if you're going to do the one-gear thing, at least do it properly ...


Does a Pugsley count as properly then! :D

Not strictly commuting but did a few miles on the Ridgeway, my new local trail :smug:, this afternoon and the Pugs' got a few comments.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 05 September, 2012, 10:37:06 pm
Had a BMW overtake me and as he did that he swerved towards me to try and knock me off. I AM EXTREMELY FCUKED OFF!!! Totally unprovoked, and shocking enough that the van driver behind took the guy's details and stopped to give them to me. It's got me so upset I've been feeling twitchy and nearly raging at anyone coming even slightly too close to me on the way home. Bah humbug!!

I haven't seen the video yet, but it felt like the only reason he didn't hit me is because I saw the approach in my mirrors and jinked left. Thank goodness for the handling of my recumbent.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 06 September, 2012, 02:03:42 am
My sympathies Wendy. I know how you feel. At least I have something to get my teeth into sorting out my current woes. Close calls leave me far more on edge. Malicious one especially.

Quote from: ian on 05 September, 2012, 10:50:07 am

I'm a bit confused – he grabbed you for using the bypass on the left? Or he thought the barrier was going to fall on your head? And how did it hit the second cyclist...

He thought I was going to ride into the descending barrier. Heading in the opposite direction and before the bollards were installed I had it happen a couple of times that the keeper would suddenly run towards me as I was threading my way through the gap (the cycle lane is narrow and contains an s-bend and a drain cover that fills the width of the lane). He didn't make contact, but it's been close and on one of the two occasions fairly hairy as it was rather wet and slippery. Both times it was a case of his misperception rather than my position or speed - the gap used to be barely wider than shoulder width and there was little opportunity to take any variety in your line and, as citoyen has demonstrated, it was rather too risky to attempt to take any speed through.

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8311/7938958470_4dda75a3e1_c.jpg)

The picture above is looking south. I was brought down on the left hand side, just in front of the booth. The other rider was riding more or less on the white line when the barrier caught him on the shoulder. The bollard on that side is missing at the moment and the bollard on the other side has been struck and is canted over into the cycle lane.
The blue sign on the barrier directs motorcycles and cycles into the cycle lane. That is the only signage other than the small keep left roundel in front of the booth (which is frequently ignored by motorcyclists heading north who use the southbound by-pass).
There's a whole lot of fail in working practices and infrastructure going on here. Especially when all of this was rebuilt just a handful of months ago. Anyway, I found out today that the booth is operated by a sub-contracted security company and that along with that my injuries and damage mean it makes sense to get my BC insurance involved.

Quote from: Wendy on 05 September, 2012, 03:18:45 pm

Must admit I rather like the A202/A2/A21 route up Bromley Hill. Mostly it's OK, and it's definitely the quickest and most direct.
To your home.  ;)

Quote from: ian on 05 September, 2012, 07:16:25 pm
(I think 23 technically goes around the back of Fountain Drive, up Farquhar Road).

I've seen two variations of the southern end of LCN 23 publicised. One leaves College Road and turns right onto the A205 South Circular and then makes six or seven more turns and then rejoins College Road 2km later. College Road is more or less straight between these two points and contains a single junction with a through road and is only 1.5km long and a 20mph limit throughout. The LCN route rejoins College Road just in time for the +10% section of Fountain Drive and dumps you at the killer roundabouts. These are all but mini-roundabouts with barely any deflection to the dominant traffic flow, both with three arms, one leads directly on to the other, one has three lanes to every road that joins it and the other has a mixture of two to three lanes - there is no cycle infrastructure. The motor vehicle collisions are horrendous.

The Farquhar Road variations were my favourite series of farcilities. The logic is impeccable. As the need for cycle infrastructure in the road layout increases its provision decreases. It used to amuse me but Southwark have recently upped their game.

The first highlight is a big, fast roundabout.
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8180/7939739046_d17f60edd9_c.jpg)


After which there is a mandatory cycle lane.
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8170/7939739900_ecf1bf1b2e_c.jpg)


Which if you use it, funnels you into the worst position to approach a built out kerb and roundabout (notice the style and flair with which the narrowed carriageway sweeps left to facilitate the hook and how the farcility terminates in perfect coincidence with its actual requirement).
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8321/7939740028_ca46d26cbe_c.jpg)


After the second roundabout the road is straight and wide so the mandatory cycle lane reappears.
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8176/7939740188_5107114661_c.jpg)
Although Street View doesn't catch the brilliance with which the lane wide, rim wrecking, pot hole is placed exactly opposite the single pinch point along this stretch.


As the vista opens up, the carriageway widens and drivers put their foot down to settle their car on the racing line round the left hand bend and the cycle lane becomes advisory.
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8299/7939736842_4033dd8eed_c.jpg)


This is the point where the LCN Route 23 departs to the right. Up that 55m long right turn slip. The gradient is just picking up to 5%. To make the turn you have to cross 11m of carriageway. You'd be a fool not to anticipate following traffic to be travelling at +50mph. You are also likely to be surprised if you assume that any traffic you do have time to negotiate with isn't going to be overtaken. I'm usually the fastest pedal powered thing up this hill and I've only ever felt I'd be safe making the turn in the dead of night. Farquhar Road isn't too bad, although it is a traffic calmed rat run. Basically this means that the oncoming traffic slaloms towards you down the hill. There is a practical, segregated contraflow cycle lane that terminates Route 23 at the end of Farquhar Road.
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8302/7939738886_4b563cd3f3_c.jpg)
The thing is, the only logical route that you would wish to take (otherwise you would have taken Fountain Drive or continued straight on as this road became College Road) is to turn right on to Crystal Palace Parade. It's five lanes and 16m wide. There is no central reservation, in fact traffic from the left gains an additional lane from the opposite side of the carriageway somewhere to your right and traffic from your right gains a lane from the other side of the carriageway somewhere roughly in front of you - yet there is no defined point where this happens or any centre line between the two. There is the entrance and exit to the bus station opposite, 17 bus routes cross and turn at this point. There is no cycle infrastucture. It's a great place to get to on a bike.


So you carry on as the bend tightens and the carriageway is narrowed by hatching.
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8320/7939738748_f225befd75_c.jpg)


Narrowed to such an extent that there is no longer any room for a cycle lane, not even an advisory one.
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8313/7939738560_5109491b7b_c.jpg)
Now, you might be able to see the two traffic islands here. The traffic islands in this picture are actually more innocuous than you might think as there is actually enough space to be comfortably (for south London) passed while in them. The second is a little narrower than the first, but it's still not too bad. It used to amuse me to hear the following traffic accelerating or braking hard as the drivers were uncertain whether there was room to pass yet invariably managing to alter their speed by just the right amount to draw along side me exactly at the island. Of course, it's all changed now. They've put a third island in. Just a little bit narrower, narrow enough that it's really unpleasant in a wing mirror to the elbow kind of a way. Just where the road gets up to about 8% and the curve switches back into an ess. The genius is that gaining a strong enough position to ride through the third pinch point makes the second a hazard, which makes the first a hazard, which makes the tightening bend a hazard, which makes the provision of what was previously an amusingly pointless cycle lane a hazard. It's almost as if this dead end of cycling provision on LCN 23 has been upgraded to match the unpleasantness of exiting Southwark by every other alternative.

I'm sorry. Turns out this is fairly painful for one reason and another and I'm rather grumpy and ranting about minor commuting irritants is... a diversion.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 06 September, 2012, 06:22:30 am
Quote from: Wendy on 05 September, 2012, 10:37:06 pm
Had a BMW overtake me and as he did that he swerved towards me to try and knock me off. I AM EXTREMELY FCUKED OFF!!! Totally unprovoked, and shocking enough that the van driver behind took the guy's details and stopped to give them to me. It's got me so upset I've been feeling twitchy and nearly raging at anyone coming even slightly too close to me on the way home. Bah humbug!!

I haven't seen the video yet, but it felt like the only reason he didn't hit me is because I saw the approach in my mirrors and jinked left. Thank goodness for the handling of my recumbent.

Bloody hell, right on top of the other cackling psycho. Not a good couple of days.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 September, 2012, 06:24:41 am
Well done staying safe Wendy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 06 September, 2012, 07:54:59 am
Well definitely autumnal today, had to resort to the smelly helly and liner gloves under the mitts, will be time to retire the shorts shortly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 06 September, 2012, 08:29:07 am
I've got some arm warmers but the elastic/silicone bit at the top makes my arms itch something horrid.

It is pretty warm leaving the office at 4-6pm in Central London, but pretty chilly now in the morning at 6-7am, and the 5 mins or so standing waiting for the train is a bit drafty.

Anyone used arm warmers that they find comfy? YMMV of course.  I'm allergic to wool as well, even that nice soft merino stuff, which rules out some options.

I have quite big upper arms for a short girl, and a lot of the larger size ones meant for ladies are too small (or feel too tight, though that could be elastic irritating me).  Are there any out there without great big logos on as well?

Title: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 06 September, 2012, 09:20:03 am
Yes, it's that awkward time of year when it's too cold for bare knees and arms first thing but quickly gets too warm for winter gear once the sun comes up.

I need new arm warmers too - mine won't stay up since I lost weight. I should get some in girl size.

d.


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 06 September, 2012, 09:27:53 am
I had real trouble getting arm warmers!! I now do have some that stay up- I'm 99% sure they are Pearl Izumi ones, stay up and none itchy I really like them. And the small is actually small rather than fall down size.

It was proper cold this morning at about 5am- I have only just got feeling back in my feet, I think the shorts are going to have to go. I need some legwarmers though if anyone has recommendation for those?!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 September, 2012, 09:43:49 am
Well, at least I have had a commute yesterday and today.

I rode to my nearest station, folded the bike and got on a train to London Bridge, then rode to work.  On the way home, I got a fast train to Croydon, and enjoyed a bit of a ride home.

This morning, I rode a bit further to a different station, and did the London Bridge thing again.

It all leads me to wonder whether it is that London attracts the most selfish and inconsiderate people in the country, or whether they are made that way by living here.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 06 September, 2012, 10:03:00 am
Left chez Feline in the dark at 5.45am and was treated to the increasing light as I headed through misty fields on the Strawberry Line to Yatton. Having left a bit more time than last time I was able to take an easier pace and enjoy the views. Then spent most of the train ride to Paddington dozing. Train was a bit late so unhurried ride to Kings Cross as no way was I going to make the 9.15 no matter how crazy I chose to be. 20mph on Euston Road felt like no effort, natch.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 06 September, 2012, 12:06:14 pm
Lady Cavendish - most of my jerseys are Pearl Izumi, I find their stuff washes and wears well, so will probably look at them.

Citoyen - want some purple Ana Nichoola ones if you are feeling girly ......  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 06 September, 2012, 12:36:09 pm
Cycling clothing size shenanigans does my head in.  I suffer from weedy upper arm syndrome.  Specialized arm warmers in Large fit OK.  Santini in Medium too loose.  Latest Lidl cheapies in Small are like Norah Batty's tights and won't stay up.  You can't win.
Title: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 07 September, 2012, 08:42:24 am
On my way to the station this morning, I was passed by a Chaucer College Canterbury minibus. Two minutes later, I was passed by another.

I mention this because both drivers waited patiently behind until it was safe to overtake and then gave me plenty of room when passing.

It's a shame such considerate driving is noteworthy but all the same: well done, Chaucer College minibus drivers.

I feel like writing to the school to thank them.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 07 September, 2012, 08:50:48 am
Quote from: citoyen on 07 September, 2012, 08:42:24 am
On my way to the station this morning, I was passed by a Chaucer College Canterbury minibus. Two minutes later, I was passed by another.

I mention this because both drivers waited patiently behind until it was safe to overtake and then gave me plenty of room when passing.

It's a shame such considerate driving is noteworthy but all the same: well done, Chaucer College minibus drivers.

I feel like writing to the school to thank them.

d.

Oh please please do! The school, their manager, and they will love that since they most likely get far more complaints, even unjustified ones. They will no doubt seize on a compliment and get considerable good feelings towards cyclists as a result. The carrot is much, much more effective than the stick.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 07 September, 2012, 09:16:53 am
Quote from: citoyen on 07 September, 2012, 08:42:24 am


I feel like writing to the school to thank them.

d.

Yes,do it.An email to the Burser will probably be most effective.
I have,on two occassions in the past,done the same thing wrt two local companies & I'm convinced it has promoted further & continued  courtesies.
Criticism is a two edged sword which cuts both ways.Positve & negative.We are sometimes quick with the negative stuff.We should be equally prompt with the positive things.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 07 September, 2012, 05:20:31 pm
I sent an email to the school and I've had a reply...

Quote
We were delighted to receive your e-mail and have passed your comments on to the minibus drivers. We carefully select and train the drivers and so it's great to hear that they're doing well.

Thank you for taking the time to write to us and let us know.

Best wishes,

Paul

Paul Xxxxx | Facilities Manager

And by such small acts is the net happiness of the world increased by a small amount. #warmglow

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 September, 2012, 05:30:13 pm
Commute home last night was interesting.  I had to work a bit late, but managed to get away just in time to ride to Butterfly's work for when she was finishing, so we went home together.  My first full length commuting ride!

Well, I say full-length, but she had to divert via Dulwich Park, and then over the hill to Streatham Common, so it was rather longer, and all achieved on a folding bike, too! :)  OK, so my wrist was sore when I got home, but that's normal for a ride of more than 10miles on flat bars, and my bum was uncomfortable on the cheap, foam, saddle.  No matter.  I did it.  I can do it.  I can ride my bike to work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cycleman on 07 September, 2012, 05:56:14 pm
take it easy  :). i still have a spare pair of stabilizers you care ha  :demon: ;D.glad it is improving  :) 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 10 September, 2012, 09:56:05 pm
I had to modify my new commute a bit because of this (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-19543530).  The police didn't actually bother to mark that the road was closed, until you turned into it, and could see the barriers across it a few hundred feet from the junction.  A single, "Road Closed Ahead" sign would have been enough, and considering they dug out enough barriers and signs to close the entire road, including the footways, it wouldn't have been that challenging.

Anyway, the alternative route is only about a quarter of a mile further, but does require a right turn off of a busy road, instead of crossing using a Toucan, and a short section of cycle path.

Considering it was only a little after peak time, it was still a surprisingly tolerable route, although a couple of bits of congestion that may have added a couple of minutes extra to my 45 minute commute.  I suspect the car drivers that didn't have my choices for avoiding that traffic probably spent a lot longer twiddling their thumbs, waiting. <smug mode engaged> ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 September, 2012, 09:03:32 am
I rode home last night rather than use the trains, where getting jostled was awful.  Yesterday morning, I couldn't get to my bike to get off at Elephant & Castle, so had to use Blackfriars.  I don't know why no one even tries to avoid bashing someone wearing an armsling.  Idiots.

So, anyway, I rode home.  And that's further than I like to ride on our folders.  Straight bars, which cause me wrist problems, uncomfortable saddle, and upright position riding into a very strong wind.  I certainly knew that my legs had done some work by the time I got home.

But it wasn't slow.  I was expecting to get passed by everyone, but I managed to keep pace with some guys on road bikes.  In fact, I led the way away from the lights by Stockwell up through Clapham.  Towards the top of the rise, I did get passed, but I think some people were hitting their PBs in order not to be left behind by the guy in normal clothes on a folding bike ;)

On the way, a strange thing happened close to home.  I had spotted a cyclist behind me, and a car behind him.  As i reached a T junction, I heard a crunch, and feared that the cyclist had been hit.  So I stopped and looked round.  The car had hit the wing mirror of a car parked at the side of the road, and parts of the mirror were still bouncing.  The car continued to the junction, and paused.  I looked at the driver, and she looked at me.  I'm sure she knew I saw what had happened.  But she just drove off.  I memorised the number, and decided to go back and leave a note for the owner.

The other cyclist caught me up, giving up his chase of the car as he saw her speeding down the hill.  We walked back, and I wrote a note to the owner with my details.  The other cyclist wrote his details down, but tore the piece of paper off, and handed it to me, which I found confusing.  Turns out that what I had assumed was a witness was really the owner of the car arriving home after his commute and seeing someone drive into his car!  I hope he gets sorted.

He had a Pearson Compass, with which he is very happy, by the way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 September, 2012, 09:06:51 am
This morning, I took a chance.  I've ridden into work on my commuting bike.  It felt much more comfortable than the folder over the distance, and I got a decent pace, even if that was wind-assisted.  I rounded up slightly to get my 20km, and then, rather than carry the bike up the narrow stairs as I usually do, I put it in the outside Bin Store (don't worry - it's out of sight, locked, and there are no bins in there anyway).

So I can't bail to a train.  I have to get home in one or else wait for a train after the ban period.  Nervous.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 11 September, 2012, 09:08:33 am
Got the whole Cairn o' Mount to myself today, on account of the road being closed for some minor re-surfacing.

As before, even though the work is only a little bit here and there, they've locked the snow-gates at either end of the hill, giving a 6 mile closed-road bit of scenic fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 11 September, 2012, 09:22:59 am
Quote from: Feanor on 11 September, 2012, 09:08:33 am
Got the whole Cairn o' Mount to myself today, on account of the road being closed for some minor re-surfacing.

As before, even though the work is only a little bit here and there, they've locked the snow-gates at either end of the hill, giving a 6 mile closed-road bit of scenic fun.

Yes. Fun! Yes. That's exactly how I remember it. Yes. It was "fun".

Here's me. Having "fun"  :D

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8317/7975675485_eb22210a2f.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40735552@N05/7975675485/)
DSC_5580 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40735552@N05/7975675485/) by Pelotonhound (http://www.flickr.com/people/40735552@N05/), on Flickr

(actually... it was quite fun.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 11 September, 2012, 09:25:08 am
Took a small detour today - only added a mile to the trip, but was much quieter and avoided the interminable queues of faux-wheel drives filled with screaming hellspawn (and their kids)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 11 September, 2012, 10:35:32 am
Quote from: Chris S on 11 September, 2012, 09:22:59 am
Yes. Fun! Yes. That's exactly how I remember it. Yes. It was "fun".

Here's me. Having "fun"  :D


My forum pic is taken at almost exactly that spot, from almost exactly that angle, on exactly the same day!
( But by a different person: It's a David Martin pic. )

That side of the hill is on my way home, so I don't get that much fun till the afternoon!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 11 September, 2012, 11:34:55 am
Quote from: SJSBrompton on 06 September, 2012, 08:29:07 am
I've got some arm warmers but the elastic/silicone bit at the top makes my arms itch something horrid.

It is pretty warm leaving the office at 4-6pm in Central London, but pretty chilly now in the morning at 6-7am, and the 5 mins or so standing waiting for the train is a bit drafty.

Anyone used arm warmers that they find comfy? YMMV of course.  I'm allergic to wool as well, even that nice soft merino stuff, which rules out some options.

I have quite big upper arms for a short girl, and a lot of the larger size ones meant for ladies are too small (or feel too tight, though that could be elastic irritating me).  Are there any out there without great big logos on as well?

Try the Prendas ones, they're like sock for your arms as they're knitted fabric rather than fleecy lycra and the have no silicon grippers, just a thickened band that grips your upper arm.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 11 September, 2012, 11:50:31 am
Quote from: Feanor on 11 September, 2012, 10:35:32 am
( But by a different person: It's a David Martin pic. )

Nope - same person - mine's a David Martin production too, it just found it's way into my flickr account.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 11 September, 2012, 12:03:56 pm
Quote from: alexb on 11 September, 2012, 11:34:55 am
Quote from: SJSBrompton on 06 September, 2012, 08:29:07 am
I've got some arm warmers but the elastic/silicone bit at the top makes my arms itch something horrid.

It is pretty warm leaving the office at 4-6pm in Central London, but pretty chilly now in the morning at 6-7am, and the 5 mins or so standing waiting for the train is a bit drafty.

Anyone used arm warmers that they find comfy? YMMV of course.  I'm allergic to wool as well, even that nice soft merino stuff, which rules out some options.

I have quite big upper arms for a short girl, and a lot of the larger size ones meant for ladies are too small (or feel too tight, though that could be elastic irritating me).  Are there any out there without great big logos on as well?

Try the Prendas ones, they're like sock for your arms as they're knitted fabric rather than fleecy lycra and the have no silicon grippers, just a thickened band that grips your upper arm.

Also Sock Guy's:
Clicky (http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=48897&gclid=CMbej-evrbICFcfKtAodUVIA9A) or sedately Clicky (http://www.jejamescycles.co.uk/sockguy-seamless-arm-item160862.html?gclid=CL20146wrbICFUfKtAodcAYATQ#info)

I'm a sturdy girl and wear L/XL
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 11 September, 2012, 06:44:56 pm
Got to the top end of Cufaude Lane (at Bramley) - narrow section with passing places.  Had 3 cars in a row pull into passing places to let me through, including a Range Rover.  None of them had to.  All appreciated my wave of thanks.  There are plenty of nice drivers out there to balance out the lunatics.   :thumbsup:

Otherwise - finally found the route through Ryeish Green I was looking for - a cool one way system of country lanes that allows you to belt along without worrying about a car coming in the opposite direction  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 September, 2012, 10:07:39 pm
Got home OK, despite the headwind.  First full day commute since the off. :thumbsup:

Lots and lots and lots of cars.  Why do they do it to themselves?

But lots and lots and lots of bicycles, too! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 11 September, 2012, 10:57:49 pm
Quote from: clarion on 11 September, 2012, 10:07:39 pm
Got home OK, despite the headwind.  First full day commute since the off. :thumbsup:

Lots and lots and lots of cars.  Why do they do it to themselves?

But lots and lots and lots of bicycles, too! :thumbsup:

Great news  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 September, 2012, 07:12:52 am
Thank you. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 12 September, 2012, 07:48:20 am
Quote from: clarion on 11 September, 2012, 10:07:39 pm
Got home OK, despite the headwind.  First full day commute since the off. :thumbsup:

Lots and lots and lots of cars.  Why do they do it to themselves?
But lots and lots and lots of bicycles, too! :thumbsup:

That reminds me of the cartoon of the cyclist riding past a golf course in the pouring rain. The cyclist and golfer are looking at each other and sharing the same thought bubble which reads, "He must be mad!"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Datameister on 12 September, 2012, 08:31:15 am
Quote from: teethgrinder on 12 September, 2012, 07:48:20 am
That reminds me of the cartoon of the cyclist riding past a golf course in the pouring rain. The cyclist and golfer are looking at each other and sharing the same thought bubble which reads, "He must be mad!"

Innerleithen Golf Club, LEL 2009, Tuesday Evening 8:15p.m. No cartoon required
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 12 September, 2012, 08:48:52 am
aggressive shouty shouty match with driver. First time in years. Thought it was going to result in a punchup.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 12 September, 2012, 09:06:15 am
Freezing. 5am is no longer shorts o clock.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 12 September, 2012, 09:14:44 am
It was chilly.

I had to wear socks with my sandals.  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 12 September, 2012, 09:41:54 am
Quote from: Chris S on 12 September, 2012, 09:14:44 am
I had to wear socks with my sandals.  :facepalm:
Lightweight.
I didn't.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 12 September, 2012, 09:42:00 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 12 September, 2012, 08:48:52 am
aggressive shouty shouty match with driver. First time in years. Thought it was going to result in a punchup.

Hope you feel OK. Manhug!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 12 September, 2012, 09:45:27 am
Quote from: Chris S on 12 September, 2012, 09:14:44 am
It was chilly.

I had to wear socks with my sandals.  :facepalm:

No one ever HAS to do that.  You have friends here - we can help.  O:-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 12 September, 2012, 09:47:04 am
Quote from: fboab on 12 September, 2012, 09:41:54 am
Quote from: Chris S on 12 September, 2012, 09:14:44 am
I had to wear socks with my sandals.  :facepalm:
Lightweight.
I didn't.

 :P

My commute was more than twice the length of yours. And colder. And hillier. And busier. And tougher because I was hungry and they were roasting ducks at Gressingham Foods...

So there.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 12 September, 2012, 09:58:52 am
Quote from: Wendy on 12 September, 2012, 09:42:00 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 12 September, 2012, 08:48:52 am
aggressive shouty shouty match with driver. First time in years. Thought it was going to result in a punchup.

Hope you feel OK. Manhug!
Cheers. It was unnecessary and stupid. Stupid driver. Very stupid. I'm not shaken up, surprisingly - usually things like this leave me shaky afterwards.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 12 September, 2012, 10:06:29 am
Got a bit of a sarcastic comment from a motorbike courier this morning: 'what you stopped at red?'
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 12 September, 2012, 10:30:29 am
Quote from: Arno on 12 September, 2012, 10:06:29 am
Got a bit of a sarcastic comment from a motorbike courier this morning: 'what you stopped at red?'

I think the correct response is, with appropriate surprise: "a motorbike, below the speed limit!"
Title: Re: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 12 September, 2012, 10:44:05 am
Quote from: ian on 12 September, 2012, 10:30:29 am
Quote from: Arno on 12 September, 2012, 10:06:29 am
Got a bit of a sarcastic comment from a motorbike courier this morning: 'what you stopped at red?'

I think the correct response is, with appropriate surprise: "a motorbike, below the speed limit!"

:D I pointed out that the fact that many cyclists jump reds doesn't meant that I as an individual behave like the stereotype. That made him a bit more friendly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 12 September, 2012, 03:13:24 pm
Quote from: Arno on 12 September, 2012, 10:44:05 am
Quote from: ian on 12 September, 2012, 10:30:29 am
Quote from: Arno on 12 September, 2012, 10:06:29 am
Got a bit of a sarcastic comment from a motorbike courier this morning: 'what you stopped at red?'

I think the correct response is, with appropriate surprise: "a motorbike, below the speed limit!"

:D I pointed out that the fact that many cyclists jump reds doesn't meant that I as an individual behave like the stereotype. That made him a bit more friendly.

Was he 'sharing' an ASL at the time?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 12 September, 2012, 07:15:33 pm
Nice one Clarion!

In other news, I'm delighted that the police have contacted my witness for a statement and have issued an NIP to the driver/registered owner.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 September, 2012, 07:46:14 pm
Makes me happy too, that sometimes, just sometimes they follow it up. 

And thanks.  I got home into the wind again tonight, making two days commutes, but today I managed to round up both ends of the day to over 20km (last night I stopped at 19.76 because I hadn't checked :-[ ).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 12 September, 2012, 09:01:01 pm
Ride home was really hard work this evening, rather more of a headwind than expected and my saddle wasn't being super comfy. Whether that was the fact I was wearing different shorts or not I don't know.

Legs (below knee and down top half of shin) started really hurting a few miles in and did so for a good five or six miles. Felt as much in the bone as it did in the muscle. Most odd, I wouldn't have thought you could get shin splints from cycling  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 12 September, 2012, 09:04:54 pm
Good to head you're back on your wheels Clarion.

Been working from home this week, yesterday I didn't get out the front door, so this morning I did a 40k virtual commute loop back to my front door by 9. It was superb, I may well do that again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 12 September, 2012, 09:59:24 pm
Quote from: Gandalf on 12 September, 2012, 03:13:24 pm
Quote from: Arno on 12 September, 2012, 10:44:05 am
Quote from: ian on 12 September, 2012, 10:30:29 am
Quote from: Arno on 12 September, 2012, 10:06:29 am
Got a bit of a sarcastic comment from a motorbike courier this morning: 'what you stopped at red?'

I think the correct response is, with appropriate surprise: "a motorbike, below the speed limit!"

:D I pointed out that the fact that many cyclists jump reds doesn't meant that I as an individual behave like the stereotype. That made him a bit more friendly.

Was he 'sharing' an ASL at the time?
There wasn't one.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: geoff on 12 September, 2012, 11:14:50 pm
Rode in, worked late and set off home around 7pm in almost pitch darkness, the reason for which became apparent when the heavens opened and it just poured for 15 minutes. I'm now surrounded by wet jacket, shoes, socks, bag, you name it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Rykard on 12 September, 2012, 11:34:13 pm
rode in this morning after replacing the brakes, to make sure it all worked. First time in a couple of years.. slight tightness in left achiles and ankle other than that no probs

rode home tonight intermittent slight drizzle until 1/2 mile from home - heavens opened... my panniers however are both waterproof - surprised as they are 3 years+ old and cheapo halfrauds ones....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 13 September, 2012, 12:52:24 am
Managed 29kph moving average this morning. And rear wheel in the air avoiding a cyclist coming round the corner on the wrong side.

At lunchtime on the way back from the barber's I maxed at 49.1kph on the flat, which was quite spinny.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 13 September, 2012, 09:34:34 am
Slightly longer route in today - more lanesy and surprisingly fuckwit free.

Fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 September, 2012, 11:59:05 am
Decent ride in.  A tad slower than yesterday, but it didn't seem it.  Not so much tailwind, I guess.

At Oval, I stopped at the line for the red light.  Eight cyclists went ahead of me. :o

I passed them all, and told one to MTFU because he didn't need the head start.

At the top of Clapham, I had a bus trying to move into a lane I was occupying.  I objected.  We kept rough pace with each other, and, at Stockwell, he pulled into an ASL box with cyclists in it and opened the doors, presumably to make something of the incident.  Fuckwit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 13 September, 2012, 12:34:06 pm
Interesting how yesterday's PB for commute time and then lunchtime max speed didn't lead to heavy legs today. That's new.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 13 September, 2012, 12:44:07 pm
Pretty rubbish couple of days mostly down to catching the ground with my right knee on a run Monday morning.

The gravel rash is healing nicely but it's still a bit stiff, am managing to get into work on time as it's only a short 2 mile ride but having to set off earlier which is annoying.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 13 September, 2012, 06:50:39 pm
Where Dr Johnson's Avenue was closed earlier this week, investigating the infant body parts they found near there, they seemed to be searching other parts of Tooting Bec Common this morning when I went past.  The road closure I got stopped at, was the blue line on this map, but this morning they had taped off some areas of undergrowth shown in red on the map.  Apparently they think that things have been moved about by wild animals, presumably foxes, since there are always a lot around there.  If that's the case, then they should probably be searching people's gardens as well, since there are going to be a lot more or those visited by foxes and other wild animals, not to mention domestic cats and dogs.

I regularly see loads of foxes cycling through that northern part of the Common, along the western side's cycle path.  On the other hand, during the day, there are a lot of dogs being walked through there, and running free to some extent.

(http://jakal.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/xanthus/Random/TootingBec_PoliceSearch_thumb400.png) (http://jakal.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/xanthus/Random/TootingBec_PoliceSearch.png)

Of course, I'm only seeing things every 24 hours now, because I'm using totally different routes into work, and on the way back.  Tooting Bec Common is probably the part of my journey were the two routes get the closest together (excepting the endpoints, obviously).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 13 September, 2012, 08:39:35 pm
Quote from: TimO on 13 September, 2012, 06:50:39 pm
I regularly see loads of foxes cycling through that northern part of the Common, along the western side's cycle path.

Blimey, clever foxes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: why1040 on 13 September, 2012, 09:12:30 pm
Oh good, I wasn't the only one who saw that   ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 14 September, 2012, 09:18:34 am
24-27mph headwinds all the way. Ugh
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 14 September, 2012, 09:26:33 am
Last night. Getting to chez Feline on the Strawberry line, saw a thing running away from me down the path, near Congesbury. As I caught up with it, I realised it was yet another badger. So I decided not to overtake it, having already had one badger crash (on the tandem, for those who aren’t aware, on the very same path). It got to a gap in the verge, passed it, then turned back and escaped into the gap.

So that’s now 4 lifetime sightings of live badgers, one crash. Generally helps if you see them ahead rather than them hiding in the verge and running out into your front wheel as you pass. 2 of the 4 have been while on the tandem.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 14 September, 2012, 10:07:03 am
4 lifetime sightings? Amazed!! I've seen 3 live ones, one squished and totally dead one, and one with its back broken after being run over by a car.  :'(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 14 September, 2012, 11:38:09 am
I've lost count of my live badger sightings now. It must be over a dozen. Two badger crashes but I have much better lights nowadays. The first was in 1995 and the second was in 2001.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 14 September, 2012, 01:20:37 pm
Quote from: Wendy on 14 September, 2012, 10:07:03 am
4 lifetime sightings? Amazed!! I've seen 3 live ones, one squished and totally dead one, and one with its back broken after being run over by a car.  :'(

One in 2007 (near oxford). Three this year, two on the strawberry path, one in the Wyley Valley.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 14 September, 2012, 01:22:11 pm
I've never seen a live badger  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 14 September, 2012, 01:24:57 pm
Quote from: Pingu on 14 September, 2012, 01:22:11 pm
I've never seen a live badger  :(
Ditto :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 14 September, 2012, 02:01:19 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 14 September, 2012, 01:24:57 pm
Quote from: Pingu on 14 September, 2012, 01:22:11 pm
I've never seen a live badger  :(
Ditto :(
I have.  Sneyd Park, Brizzle.  Trundling along happy as larry.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 14 September, 2012, 02:29:51 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 14 September, 2012, 01:24:57 pm
Quote from: Pingu on 14 September, 2012, 01:22:11 pm
I've never seen a live badger  :(
Ditto :(

Careful!  That's what I said a couple of hours before one attacked me on Chinnor Hill.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 14 September, 2012, 02:43:17 pm
There's a badger's sett in the land adjacent to our property, near the road. The only time I've ever spied any of its residents was when one was hit by a passing car. I can tell you, an angry, injured badger is not something you want to get too close to. We had to get special badger rescue people to come and take it away with proper badger handling equipment. I've seen a few live badgers in other circumstances but I've seen far more dead ones.

The only wildlife I saw on my ride home last night was a field mouse. I thought it was a leaf blowing across the road in front of me at first, and only realised it was a mouse when it stopped and sprang up in the air, narrowly avoiding going under my front wheel. It can count itself very lucky I didn't run over it - I wouldn't have been able to avoid it.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 14 September, 2012, 03:26:11 pm
Could be worse. The only live wildlife I saw on the way in was rats. 3 of.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 14 September, 2012, 03:33:10 pm
Quote from: fboab on 14 September, 2012, 03:26:11 pm
Could be worse. The only live wildlife I saw on the way in was rats. 3 of.

Well, that’s East Anglia for you. I’ve seen rats outside work, and in my front garden.

I also saw a kamikaze rabbit last night, but shouting at it worked.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 14 September, 2012, 03:45:12 pm
I think I saw four badgers on the infamous Wowbadger Solstice ride, when Wow saw one very close up.

I regularly see foxes on my commute, although mostly of the non-cycling variety.  They easily outnumber domestic cats, which are a fairly rare occurrence on my commute, aside from sitting waiting in my hallway.  I think only three on last nights commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 14 September, 2012, 04:34:46 pm
Quote from: fboab on 14 September, 2012, 03:26:11 pm
Could be worse. The only live wildlife I saw on the way in was rats. 3 of.
We had a plague one year. Dead rats all over semi-flooded roads.

Cleaning bike on weekend, I realised I was peeling dried rat guts from the spokes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 14 September, 2012, 04:35:53 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 14 September, 2012, 09:18:34 am
24-27mph headwinds all the way. Ugh

Now gusting up to 45mph. Tailwind . . . .
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 14 September, 2012, 04:38:53 pm
The most unsettling dead animals I've seen recently on my commutes have been two cats. Separately, and in different places. One of them disappeared pretty soon after I saw it, so I guess the owners missed it and found it. The other was left to get eaten by the foxes and crows.

For my money, dead cats are usually a sure sign of people driving far too fast. Cats, unlike rabbits, are usually pretty good at getting out of the way of cars. Though a friend's cat was got by a car because it was old, deaf, nearly blind and only had three legs.

mrcharly - your rat experience reminds me of the time I rode through a plague of frogs, probably not long after a car had been through the same way... Messy.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 15 September, 2012, 10:41:06 am
I did a timed run on Thursday, prompted by fears I was getting slower (a few people have taken me by surprise and passed me recently).

20 minutes on the watch, door-to-door.  That's the same as 6 years ago, and the older time was on a bike with dropped bars and racing tyres, not a MTB with M+ tyres.

I think there are more cyclists.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ed_o_brain on 15 September, 2012, 02:26:22 pm
Instead of cycling to work last Thursday, I walked and took the camera with me. Here are a few images that speak for themselves:

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8175/7988282167_57dab8504a_b.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ed_o_brain/7988282167/)
Bad Overtake (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ed_o_brain/7988282167/) by ed_o_brain (http://www.flickr.com/people/ed_o_brain/), on Flickr

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8451/7988282317_f3fba8b5a4_b.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ed_o_brain/7988282317/)
Bad Undertake (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ed_o_brain/7988282317/) by ed_o_brain (http://www.flickr.com/people/ed_o_brain/), on Flickr
Could argue I'm being picky here, but approaching this point I'd seen a cyclist cut-up by a driver making this same manoeuvre. I was too far away to get a useful shot. It's not uncommon.

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8320/7988288530_2031e85ba8_b.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ed_o_brain/7988288530/)
Fud Parking (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ed_o_brain/7988288530/) by ed_o_brain (http://www.flickr.com/people/ed_o_brain/), on Flickr
This van has been regularly parked here for over a week now.

Tempted to turn this into a regular (anonymous) blog.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 16 September, 2012, 09:55:59 pm
18 miles each way on Thurs, and again today, but...
an attack from the p*nct*r* fairy meant that I phoned for help for the last (hilly!) five miles. And on unloading the bike, I found BOTH tyres flat.
These were the Orange Bling's original tyres.  I shoulda replaced them long ago.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 16 September, 2012, 10:14:02 pm
Quote from: ed_o_brain on 15 September, 2012, 02:26:22 pm
Instead of cycling to work last Thursday, I walked and took the camera with me. Here are a few images that speak for themselves:

You using Instagram,
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 16 September, 2012, 11:03:23 pm
Shopping yesterday.  Only two venues, but was able to bring in a major haul due to being accompanied by #1 son and his extra paniers.
Tonight, just the 2.5 mile round trip to a certain pub.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 17 September, 2012, 01:19:13 pm
In recent days I have found the roads very slippery. It is a little early for the fallen leaves to be crushed and releasing vegetable oil but I this that is the cause.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 17 September, 2012, 03:40:43 pm
There's a bit of the blowy stuff out there. Being a 60kg little lad, this does cause me some issues.

Why some Lycra-clad chap on sooty bling thought my wheel would be a great one to suck when he was a good stocky chap, I have no idea. I was hardly moving past Hammersmith!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 17 September, 2012, 03:45:20 pm
Quote from: marcusjb on 17 September, 2012, 03:40:43 pm
There's a bit of the blowy stuff out there. Being a 60kg little lad, this does cause me some issues.

Why some Lycra-clad chap on sooty bling thought my wheel would be a great one to suck when he was a good stocky chap, I have no idea. I was hardly moving past Hammersmith!

Perhaps his destination was in the opposite direction and he was just waiting for the inevitable?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ed_o_brain on 17 September, 2012, 04:20:12 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 16 September, 2012, 10:14:02 pm
You using Instagram,

Not for those images - they're LightRoomed using one of my own presets which I'll happily share.
I'd probably use instagram if I had a working phone with a better camera.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 17 September, 2012, 05:46:39 pm
I had a yoof lean out of a window to yell at me.
I'm (generously) assuming he was pointing out my seat was too low- I think the post is slipping.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 17 September, 2012, 06:03:19 pm
Quote from: fboab on 17 September, 2012, 05:46:39 pm
I had a yoof lean out of a window to yell at me.
I'm (generously) assuming he was pointing out my seat was too low- I think the post is slipping.
Some species of yoof turned as I passed and shouted, "Nice willy!". I am almost certain that's what he yelled.  Is that the 21st century version of, "your wheel's going round"?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 September, 2012, 08:31:58 pm
Riding through Tooting, I saw a BMXer.  He was doing a decent pace, so I settled a short way behind him for a while.  When there was space, I passed.  As I did so, he jumped onto the kerb. A moment later, I saw he was drafting me, so I put on the pace to see how well he held on.  He managed really well.  I was impressed.  He had to give up after a few seconds above 30kph.  I waved my approval.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 17 September, 2012, 08:35:10 pm
Quote from: jane on 17 September, 2012, 06:03:19 pm
Quote from: fboab on 17 September, 2012, 05:46:39 pm
I had a yoof lean out of a window to yell at me.
I'm (generously) assuming he was pointing out my seat was too low- I think the post is slipping.
Some species of yoof turned as I passed and shouted, "Nice willy!". I am almost certain that's what he yelled.  Is that the 21st century version of, "your wheel's going round"?

Suspect it was "nice Wheelie!" because you weren't doing one.  It's sort of like irony but served cold.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 September, 2012, 08:36:41 pm
I had a kid shout 'Yay wheelie!' last week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 18 September, 2012, 05:57:08 am
Quote from: Peter on 17 September, 2012, 08:35:10 pm
Quote from: jane on 17 September, 2012, 06:03:19 pm
Quote from: fboab on 17 September, 2012, 05:46:39 pm
I had a yoof lean out of a window to yell at me.
I'm (generously) assuming he was pointing out my seat was too low- I think the post is slipping.
Some species of yoof turned as I passed and shouted, "Nice willy!". I am almost certain that's what he yelled.  Is
that the 21st century version of, "your wheel's going round"?

Suspect it was "nice Wheelie!" because you weren't doing one.  It's sort of like irony but served cold.
Mmm.  I see.   Could also have been nice willy, for a similar reason, though, couldn't it?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 September, 2012, 09:08:45 am
I borrowed TGL's garish Thorn today (and I will be borrowing it for the weekend, when we will be camping in Somerset, where I don't fancy going fixed with a camping load).  Although the STIs are a bit odd, and the mudguard clearance fiendishly difficult to get right, and he has his saddle how low?! :o  It was a good ride.  Even riding nervously, I managed the fastest commute since 20 June, and I have, at last, allowed my 'Away Status' of 'off the bike due to illness or injury' to lapse on Bikejournal.  I may still be in pain, but I am back. :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 18 September, 2012, 09:11:35 am
Pointed out to a taxi driver that one of his brake lights wasn't working.
Pointed out to the driver of the car in front that neither of her brake lights were working.

Then at the junction at the bottom of the hill had the great fun of pointing to a red light and shouting at a taxi driver who was trying to bully his way through (it turned out that it was nearly through me as I was by now in a position where a collision would occur if he continued) to turn right 5 secs after the lights had gone red "Don't you know what a red light is?"

Oh the joy...

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 18 September, 2012, 10:01:03 am
Seen on the South Bank, near Gabriel's Wharf - I don't think they're real Grenadiers...

http://pics.lockerz.com/s/245418993

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 18 September, 2012, 10:06:09 am
Quote from: jane on 18 September, 2012, 05:57:08 am
Quote from: Peter on 17 September, 2012, 08:35:10 pm
Quote from: jane on 17 September, 2012, 06:03:19 pm
Quote from: fboab on 17 September, 2012, 05:46:39 pm
I had a yoof lean out of a window to yell at me.
I'm (generously) assuming he was pointing out my seat was too low- I think the post is slipping.
Some species of yoof turned as I passed and shouted, "Nice willy!". I am almost certain that's what he yelled.  Is
that the 21st century version of, "your wheel's going round"?

Suspect it was "nice Wheelie!" because you weren't doing one.  It's sort of like irony but served cold.
Mmm.  I see.   Could also have been nice willy, for a similar reason, though, couldn't it?

Yes but I suspect in that case a different word might have been used!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 19 September, 2012, 02:47:58 am
I think I've finished tweaking my new commute home route.  It's now only 0.2 miles further than the old route, but even though I wasn't trying to reduce the number of traffic lights I can be stopped at, there are only 26, compared to nearly 60 on the old route!  Of those, two sets of lights are level crossings (one Tram, one conventional rail) and one set is a Toucan.  The first 2.3 miles has 15 of those traffic lights in it, followed by a gap of 2.3 miles with zero lights before the next one.

I still need to experiment with the alternative route for wet weather, and when using a bike with narrow wheels, because there's a few hundred feet of off roading in this route, and once the weather gets a bit wetter, it'll probably turn into a quagmire.

It makes a nice change, having virtually no roads in common with the other route, and actually being quite quiet for most of the way.  It's got one very steep bit of up hill, and one longish stretch of downhill, but is otherwise reasonably flat.  It's probably got less really busy roads, but some bits through a trading estate, which tends to have HGVs on it regardless of the time of day.  There are also a handful of bits at the more central London end, which can be quite congested, when the traffic is heavier.  A lot of the quiet bits stay that way, since they're mostly through residential areas, including several bits which are no-through for cars, but have pass-throughs for cyclists. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 19 September, 2012, 09:29:50 am
I thought my bike had been filled with lead. Turns out I had a softish back tyre.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 19 September, 2012, 09:34:33 am
Quote from: citoyen on 18 September, 2012, 10:01:03 am
Seen on the South Bank, near Gabriel's Wharf - I don't think they're real Grenadiers...

http://pics.lockerz.com/s/245418993

d.
It's the boots, isn't it?  Dead giveaway - real Grenadiers don't have heels that high.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 September, 2012, 09:43:18 am
You may recall that, on 3 July, I had an off which inhibited my cycling a bit, and changed stuff a lot.

Those of you with better memories may recall that, the day before, I had been threatened by a driver who got out of his car and tried to kick me off as I cycled past.

I didn't end up reporting it, not least because I couldn't hold a pen to fill in the form at the time, and I was a bit distracted overall, and there was the prospect of facing the Met's utter CBAness again, which I didn't need.

Never mind.  That's gone.  And today I exorcised the demon.  Though I've been riding to work for a week, I had been avoiding Streatham Hill, which I usually ride over with Butterfly.  This morning, I had TGL's bike, equipped with a superfluity of gears, and I was feeling slightly cavalier about my shoulder, so I did do that.  After leaving Butterfly at her work, I headed on for mine, and my route included Shakespeare Road, where the incident happened.  I haven't ridden North along here since that morning, so I felt nervous, especially when I got stuck behind a drain cleaning truck coming out of the depot, just as I had initially on 2 July. 

But, guess what?  It was OK.  Nothing untoward happened, just like the many many times I'd ridden it before.

One more step back to normality.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 19 September, 2012, 09:48:43 am
Good stuff!  It's odd how these things loom, isn't it?  Maybe it's some kind of subconscious coping mechanism to allow the nervous system to recuperate!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 19 September, 2012, 09:55:29 am
Quote from: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 19 September, 2012, 09:29:50 am
I thought my bike had been filled with lead. Turns out I had a softish back tyre.

I read that first as a scotish back tyre, and wondered what other sort you were likely to have
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 September, 2012, 09:57:03 am
To be honest, it hasn't been in my mind at all for weeks, but, approaching the road, I felt it in the pit of my stomach.  Then I realised that I couldn't now tell you the registration, nor the colour, nor the make and model of the car involved.  It's gone.  It's OK.  I could have met that violent dickhead anywhere.  Opposite Pablo Neruda Close (or Langston Hughes Close, I couldn't tell you exactly) has no magical malevolant aura.  It's just a bit of tarmac.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 19 September, 2012, 09:59:45 am
Quote from: clarion on 19 September, 2012, 09:57:03 am
To be honest, it hasn't been in my mind at all for weeks, but, approaching the road, I felt it in the pit of my stomach.  Then I realised that I couldn't now tell you the registration, nor the colour, nor the make and model of the car involved.  It's gone.  It's OK.  I could have met that violent dickhead anywhere.  Opposite Pablo Neruda Close (or Langston Hughes Close, I couldn't tell you exactly) has no magical malevolant aura.  It's just a bit of tarmac.

 :-* :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 19 September, 2012, 10:02:31 am
Yebbut it doesn't always feel like that, it's the sort of thing that makes you feel incredibly vulnerable, so congrats an' all, Clarion
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 19 September, 2012, 10:02:57 am
Quote from: clarion on 19 September, 2012, 09:57:03 am
To be honest, it hasn't been in my mind at all for weeks, but, approaching the road, I felt it in the pit of my stomach.  Then I realised that I couldn't now tell you the registration, nor the colour, nor the make and model of the car involved.  It's gone.  It's OK.  I could have met that violent dickhead anywhere.  Opposite Pablo Neruda Close (or Langston Hughes Close, I couldn't tell you exactly) has no magical malevolant aura.  It's just a bit of tarmac.

What great names!  I wonder how many residents know the relevance?  Hopefully more than we might imagine.  We get stuff like Black Pudding Lane and Sterilized Milk Street!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 September, 2012, 10:04:48 am
There's also a James Joyce Walk, a Marcus Garvey Way, and a Derek Walcott Close.  Can you tell this is Lambeth? ;D

Mandela Road is in Southwark.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 19 September, 2012, 10:05:15 am
Good one you Clarion, one step at a time, eh?

It's really difficult sometimes, but you have to keep thinking "I did and no little kittens got killed, so all is good"

Works for me :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 19 September, 2012, 10:19:45 am
Yay Clarion. :thumbsup:

Quote from: clarion on 19 September, 2012, 09:43:18 am
... One more step back to normality.

Hang on, this YACF, shouldn't root vegetables, or at least cake, be involved in "normality" ? ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 September, 2012, 10:20:33 am
I'll do my best to involve cake.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tigerrr on 19 September, 2012, 10:23:18 am
Phew what a lucky escape today.

An ambulance, with full sirens was just behind me on Holland Park, and I was blasting up the hill to get away.  The ambulance suddenly swerved across the road onto the other side at the lights, and jammed the brakes on, screeching to a halt on the wrong side of the road blocking the oncoming traffic which was scattering in all directions.
The guy in the passenger seat started yelling at me - I got ready to return fire and then I realised he was letting me know my ipod had fallen out of my pocket and was dangling by the wire about to fall to the ground! You can well imagine the ghastly consequences - complete loss of mojo was avoided by a hairsbreadth.  Sudden loss of Ipod mid-ride woudl have been a real disaster.
I expect the poor patient in the backl of the ambulance is relieved to know that they are being driven by people who care.  Another big thumbs up for the emergency services from me.  Top men the ambulance teams are.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 19 September, 2012, 11:11:03 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 19 September, 2012, 09:34:33 am
Quote from: citoyen on 18 September, 2012, 10:01:03 am
Seen on the South Bank, near Gabriel's Wharf - I don't think they're real Grenadiers...

http://pics.lockerz.com/s/245418993

d.
It's the boots, isn't it?  Dead giveaway - real Grenadiers don't have heels that high.

Yes, and I'm sure those are non-regulation leg coverings too. Though who knows what Grenadiers wear under their normal trousers...

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 19 September, 2012, 04:47:18 pm
Quote
Crazy Horse Dancers from the stage production Forever Crazy on the South Bank. The show opens this evening in a specially built venue nearby (Getty)

http://www.standard.co.uk/news/world/news-pictures-of-the-day-7636914.html?action=gallery&ino=2
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 19 September, 2012, 04:52:32 pm
Great news, clarion. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 19 September, 2012, 10:52:23 pm
Another detour for me tonight to add a few extra miles, had to use my lights for the 1st time in ages & got caught in another band of cold rain.  Should be a 200mile week on the commute  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Datameister on 20 September, 2012, 09:38:52 am
Quote from: fungus on 19 September, 2012, 10:52:23 pm
Another detour for me tonight to add a few extra milesGot lost again on the way home, had to use my lights for the 1st time in ages & got caught in another band of cold rain.  Should be a 200mile week on the commute  :thumbsup:

FTFY  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 20 September, 2012, 11:15:48 am
I was honking up a 'hill', cheered on by Bobby Byrd letting me know that he Knows I've got Soul (http://youtu.be/dT3-rUMgpNA) (if I didn't I wouldn't be in here) and as he told me how he knows I've got the feeling, by the way I moved it over there, I erm, felt it move over there. And not in a good way. Luckily I only had to ride a couple of miles with my saddle pointing very skywards.
Still, I took his advice and didn't let nobody stop me, from having myself a ball. Yeah, baby.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 20 September, 2012, 06:31:54 pm
Nutter:

http://tinyurl.com/9y4avzs


Quote
Bicyclist: "The Colorado State Patrol is involved and we've found others who have
had similar run-ins with this driver. Stay tuned for more updates) Here
is what was supposed to be my relaxing Sunday morning ride with my
teammate until things became a bit unsettling when an older male driver
came up behind us in his Ford Explorer.

This guy obviously doesn't like seeing bikes for some reason since he
sat behind us for more than five minutes blaring his horn. What's even
worse is we saw him approaching from behind and to be polite we ride
single file to give him as much road as possible, as we did with every
other car we encountered on this road east of Longmont, CO.

This guy was
so intent of bugging us that he backed up traffic behind him and cars
had to pass him on a double yellow line. It seems he was the one
obstructing traffic, not us. We ended up slowing up in order to force
him to pass us and go on with his day. Insane. Hopefully this is the
worse thing this guy does to cyclists."

Update:

Quote
A 75-year-old Erie man has been ticketed in connection with a widely seen You Tube video, which shows a horn-honking driver tailing two cyclists on Colorado 52.

The Colorado State Patrol anounced Thursday that James Ernst was issued a citation for : Harassment (two charges) (a class 3 misdemeanor); Impeding the flow of traffic/minimum speed regulation (a class A traffic infraction) and Improper use of a horn or warning device (a class B traffic infraction)

Anyway, roadie tried to burn me up again, huffing and puffing to overtake then eases off. Why? Why not judge my speed? Tchuh.

ETA bust link.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mr magnolia on 20 September, 2012, 08:57:08 pm
I thought once more that I should investigate rain legs.
Today was a bike plus train day, so includes real life trousers and shoes. I've just taken the trizers from the washing machine, where I had put them in an attempt to get them a little drier...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 21 September, 2012, 09:52:35 am
Rainlegs and 'civvie' trousers don't work. If you go bare shinned then they are great (IMHO).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 21 September, 2012, 10:14:22 am
Slightly gobsmacked by the overtaking manoeuvre that was pulled on me last night. On the one hand, I'm impressed that the driver pulled right across to the other side of the road to give me plenty of room. On the other hand, this is where it happened...

(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k170/smutchin/road_zps2413c39b.png)

I live about 200m up the road, so this is the most direct route home for me. The road is fairly narrow at this point. I always stay well out from the side of the road in order to discourage overtaking. You'll note the solid white line too. And the fact that it's a blind bend.

The overtaking driver took the bend with his car completely across the solid white line. And yes, there was something coming the other way. Fortunately, he just had time to swerve back across to the correct side of the road, though I suspect not without the oncoming driver using his brakes.

The road has had to be closed three times in the last year due to crashes very near this spot. I had to walk past the aftermath of one of the crashes and it wasn't a pretty sight.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 21 September, 2012, 10:20:13 am
I am very frequently impressed with the ability of mother-nature to adapt the species to modern transport methods thus allowing very many drivers to be able to see round bends,corners & the other side of the brow of a hill.
Mother-nature is perhaps still in the adaption process wrt the judgement of speed & distance.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 21 September, 2012, 10:24:22 am
It is the incontrovertible need and inalienable right of every (well most) motorist to pass the cycle the see in front.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 21 September, 2012, 10:25:00 am
@ citoyen

Is it as steep as it looks?  If you were doing less than 10mph, then it's legal for the driver to cross the white line to overtake you.  Of course, that doesn't make it safe!  It looks a pretty dangerous spot with that bend.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 21 September, 2012, 10:28:00 am
Oh yes, talking of judging speed, I would judge the overtaking driver's speed to have been somewhere approaching 60mph. It's a road with a 40 limit.

Peter - my own speed would have been around 20mph at that point (it's not as steep as it looks). But as you say, regardless of whether or not it was a legal overtake, it certainly wasn't a safe one.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 21 September, 2012, 10:36:57 am
That was unpleasantly wet and windy. I'd forgotten how slow I end up riding when I can't see the cars clearly enough to judge speeds  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 21 September, 2012, 10:49:10 am
Quote from: citoyen on 21 September, 2012, 10:28:00 am
Oh yes, talking of judging speed, I would judge the overtaking driver's speed to have been somewhere approaching 60mph. It's a road with a 40 limit.

Peter - my own speed would have been around 20mph at that point (it's not as steep as it looks). But as you say, regardless of whether or not it was a legal overtake, it certainly wasn't a safe one.

d.

Not good.  Glad you are OK!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 21 September, 2012, 11:44:53 am
Oh, I'm fine. Stupid overtakes are a regular hazard on my road - this is one of several potential danger spots. I can deal with them. I just found this incident particularly baffling because the driver clearly made an effort to give me plenty of room while overtaking. Which is great. Except...

I was once coming down the road from the other direction, approaching that bend from the other side, when a car came round it on the wrong side of the road, performing a similarly daft overtaking manoeuvre. Slightly terrifying.

I just know that riding along this road is going to end badly for me one day. When it happens, I'm counting on you guys to remember these tales of idiocy to show that it was entirely predictable, entirely avoidable, and entirely down to the way people drive.

Ho hum.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 21 September, 2012, 02:14:59 pm
Think positive, d.  It is not going to end badly, except for a driver, maybe.  Your awareness will help you survive!

Peter
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 21 September, 2012, 02:36:20 pm
I admire your optimism!  ;D

Tbh, I must be subconsciously pretty optimistic myself to carry on using the road every day rather than use the long way round...

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: red marley on 21 September, 2012, 03:50:54 pm
Reminds me of drivers in Sardinia. When I was cycling there, they would very politely slow down, give me plenty of space but frequently do overtakes around blind bends like that.

And, how tall was that Google Streeview car? Or was it taken from a low flying aircraft?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 21 September, 2012, 03:52:26 pm
Low sun in the mornings, means more caution needed. Fortunately not had a close call as a result but seen a few.
Its an underrated risk factor in my book.

Much cooler too, ice on the cars early on, on Wed. Wore gloves for the 1st time on Wed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 21 September, 2012, 06:22:46 pm
Overtook that roadie again today. As I drew level I said "Ha ha! Play the game where you add up the value of the cars you overtake!" but she started laughing before I finished the sentence, I think she was nervous. I think she may be in love with me, or me with her, I always get them muddled up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 21 September, 2012, 06:32:57 pm
Quote from: jo on 21 September, 2012, 03:50:54 pm
Reminds me of drivers in Sardinia. When I was cycling there, they would very politely slow down, give me plenty of space but frequently do overtakes around blind bends like that.

And, how tall was that Google Streeview car? Or was it taken from a low flying aircraft?

I’ve seen cars in the UK have to virtually go up the verge to avoid someone overtaking on a blind bend to save a few seconds. One day, it’s going to go wrong for one of us.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 21 September, 2012, 08:02:46 pm
I had an altercation with a driver. He came up behind me and revved on my wheel on a single track road. There wasn't room to overtake so I firmly rode in the centre of the track ( there's grass down the middle for part of, it's a lane FFS) and then pulled into a driveway to let him pass when I deemed it safe. He overtook, spinning his wheels as he passed, and I may have gesticulated at him. So he stopped, wound down his window and leaned out to have a go.
"I have just as much right to the road as you" (I thought I'd get in first)
"Why didn't you pull in and let me pass then?"
"Because I couldn't see it was safe for you to do so"
He then told me he'd taken a test to drive a car and clearly they let any idiot ride a bike, that I was dangerous. Pointing out I had the same driving qualifications as him, and was unprotected and pretty concerned about my safety didn't help, and so it went on, with him sneering and shouting at me, finally telling me to "Get a grip woman"
and drove off. I rode away and was fine for about, ooo, 3 minutes, then I had to hide in a churchyard for a sick-feeling sob to myself.

I spent most of the rest of the journey home thinking how I just don't want to do this anymore. Of course, my car is f*cked so I kind of have to, but you know, I'm just not enjoying it much at the moment, and tossbuckets like him are a big part of the reason why.

Would you have let a car overtake you here?

http://goo.gl/maps/6eK8N
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 21 September, 2012, 08:06:12 pm
no
& knobheads such as him don't encourage future co-operation >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 21 September, 2012, 08:21:25 pm
Nor me.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 September, 2012, 08:22:11 pm
Git.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 21 September, 2012, 08:27:59 pm
Eep, no.   >:(

IME, cars don't do anything to make you immune to altercations with such knobheads, they just give you something to have to drive home between the flashbacks afterwards.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 21 September, 2012, 08:29:04 pm
No here, too.

Quote from: sg37409 on 21 September, 2012, 03:52:26 pm
Low sun in the mornings, means more caution needed. Fortunately not had a close call as a result but seen a few.
Its an underrated risk factor in my book.


Very much so, especially at junctions. Trouble is, often you can see but you don't realise the driver can't.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Hot Flatus on 21 September, 2012, 08:35:32 pm
Quote from: fboab on 21 September, 2012, 08:02:46 pm
I had an altercation with a driver

I had an altercation with a pedestrian.

On a pavement.  By a  narrow windy A road with an unobserved 40 mph limit, and an expectation by some drivers that they should be able to overtake unimpeded (even by oncoming traffic), and the rest sensibly don't overtake but sit behind.  You can generate a 20 car traffic jam all of your own in just a handful of seconds. So in a spirit of good citizenship I choose to ride the pavement, after all, on a one mile rural stretch the chances of meeting a pedestrian are verging towards nil.  Nobody walks on that pavement because the fuckers are all in cars. On the odd occasion that there is a ped, I pull to a stop before I reach them and wait til they are past before I remount.

There was a ped. A green-wellied, and quilted body-warmered lady of about 60 something. I dismounted about 10 metres in front of her and waited.  As she reached me she paused and proceeded to interrogate me as to why I wasn't on the so-called cycle path (a stony mud track that shreds road tyres in a minute).  She was deaf to my polite attempt at an explanation and ordered me to go either on the road or the cycle path.  I asked her if she felt I had inconvenienced her " Yes you bloody well have" was the ill-tempered retort as she stomped off.

Next time I see her I'm going to make a point of interfering with her smooth passage.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 21 September, 2012, 09:17:06 pm
Quote from: Hot Flatus on 21 September, 2012, 08:35:32 pm
Next time I see her I'm going to make a point of interfering with her smooth passage.
How do you know it's smooth?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 21 September, 2012, 09:33:38 pm
@ fboab

L., that's horrible; I hope you're already feeling a bit better.  I had someone yell at me yesterday when I was not causing any obstrction at all.  It was mercifully unimaginative: "Get off the road!".  No effing or blinding.  I could only think it must have been a trainee.  It was still depressing though.  I managed to cause an obstruction today, so I'm feeling a bit better!  GWS.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 21 September, 2012, 10:58:48 pm
fboab, no, I bloody well wouldn't have let him overtake. I would have done exactly the same as you. Up to and including the sobbing.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 21 September, 2012, 11:07:32 pm
See, myself, sometimes I have (in the past, when I felt like it) moved over to stop on the verge for the sake of an easier life/less agro.

I signal, move over. Do the drivers wait for me to actually be clear of the road before shooming past? Of course not. And they wonder why I'm less inclined to put myself out to let them past. They don't seem to get that I need to slow right down before moving onto gravel/grass on silly thin road tyres.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 21 September, 2012, 11:14:48 pm
I suppose, on the bright side, at least he did wait a few seconds - unlike the knob I encountered on a similar road last weekend and who couldn't be bothered to wait so just pushed me off the road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 21 September, 2012, 11:19:20 pm
For me, an easier life is just carrying on doing what I'm doing without having to make concessions to precious cunts.

Like you say, road bike tyres are not designed for optimum handling on grass/gravel. I'll pull over when it's convenient for me, not when it's convenient for them.

If they want to drive fast, they should stick to motorways instead of narrow country lanes.

Of course, words on a forum are easy but in real life situations, one finds it hard to adhere to one's principles. In principle, I would never engage with an aggressive motorist, I would studiously ignore them. But in practice, they do sometimes push you into responding despite your intentions.

And sometimes they use physical violence...

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 21 September, 2012, 11:30:55 pm
He's a cockwomble, you're not - that's all you need to remember. Chin up, & best crank forward lass :-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 22 September, 2012, 04:28:10 pm
Quote from: iddu on 21 September, 2012, 11:30:55 pm
He's a cockwomble, you're not - that's all you need to remember. Chin up, & best crank forward lass :-*

Absolutely. I bet he'd have been as much of an arsehole to someone driving a car on that road in the opposite direction and not driving into the hedge as soon as they saw him because he had priority.
Sometimes in life, you meet arseholes...
Be glad that you're one of the people who make life better, not worse for everyone. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 22 September, 2012, 06:06:46 pm
You only had to put up with him for two minutes fboab. He's got to put up with himself for the rest of his life.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 23 September, 2012, 09:17:28 am
How not to cross the road:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KVDfix2XxNA
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Hot Flatus on 23 September, 2012, 11:51:07 am
"Nice shared human moment with driver....perhaps he's a father too"


Nah. He's just freaking out because there is some kind of metallic locust-borg thing alongside him in the cycle lane.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 23 September, 2012, 11:57:05 am
One of my schoolfriends thought the Green Cross Code was "Who Dares Wins".

The best/worst example was when I was at sixth form and we had to cross a busy road on the way up the hill to the college from the bus station.  One kid only avoided a car by thrusting his hips forward as the bonnet just skimmed the fabric on his arse.  One of those things that looks really cool when it works.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 23 September, 2012, 07:43:52 pm
Dodged the rain on the way in and got soaked on the way home, but that's on the way home so who cares?  We've only had 20% of average rainfall in the east since July.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 24 September, 2012, 07:44:44 am
Arrived in nice and dry this morning.  Result.  Even added an extra little loop it was so nice and quiet.  Warmish, autumn mists hanging over London.  Or possibly low lying engine pollution.  Looked quiet atmospheric, though, positively Keatsian (if there is such a word).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 24 September, 2012, 08:19:17 am
Do you know? I must be getting old.
The weather in the Midlands is appalling this morning, and although today is a non-working day for me, I was thinking to myself that if I had had to go to work, I would have probably gone on the train.  I never used to let heavy rain bother me.
To compound this, I have just seen a chap on our road push his bike out from his house and set off wearing just shorts, jersey and arm warmers.  No jacket.

He's nicked my cycling mojo.  That's why I considered the train.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 24 September, 2012, 08:32:12 am
As my commute is a mere half mile, yesterday will have to do as my commute. 4 hours in the pouring rain going along the coast through Seaford, to Littlington, Wilmington, Arlington, Berwick, Selmeston, Beddingham, South Ease, Telscombe Village, The Tye, and back home.

If anyone finds a pair of clear cycling glasses somewhere between South Ease and Brighton … they're mine! Had them for years. Oh well.

My yellow Altura jacket is no longer waterproof bytheway. And my eyes are still slightly 'sting-ey' (sp?) from the rain.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 24 September, 2012, 08:56:17 am
Stopped a medical student riding to the hospital and pumped his tyres up. To think this chap will be in charge of peoples health in a few years..
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 24 September, 2012, 09:01:32 am
50 yards of yellow-brown standing water on the lane by the pigs.

East Anglia. Gotta love it (not).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 24 September, 2012, 09:25:09 am
Mud all over the roads, potholes obscured by puddles, oil everywhere, metal roadsigns to slip on, and the rain started half way in, after I'd decided not to use my jacket.

Great fun ride. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Palinurus on 24 September, 2012, 12:23:51 pm
Boushti woke me up at 6 am, the bastard was soaking wet so I knew I was in for a wet ride. By the time I left it was miserable but not raining too hard. Lately, becuase it's been dry, I've been going through the park- it's nice, and a bit shorter- rather than by the ring road. This morning I thought- better take the ring road, more likely to get a puncture in the park- I ignored my own advice, trusted the Armadillos, went through the park and got a puncture. Bollocks. Usual cause- glass adhered to tyre, worked it's way in.

First fix at the roadside commuting puncture since Feb 2011.

Right now it's the worst kind of rain- really soaky. Glad it wasn't like that this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 24 September, 2012, 12:27:17 pm
Soaked but warm this morning with traffic jams due to minor floods again.
It will be horrible to start with tonight until I warm up again.   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 24 September, 2012, 12:28:54 pm
Slippery drain covers; a muzzled dog called 'fluffy'; fence moved back, suggesting that they are widening one of the narrow sections of cycle path.



Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 24 September, 2012, 12:29:30 pm
Not a bad day for a cyclo-commute.

Tail wind this morning and same again forecast for this evening.

I always reckon if you get all three of cold, wet and headwind, it's a bad day, but I can tolerate any two without problem. And how often is it both really cold and wet ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 24 September, 2012, 01:00:45 pm
It is getting windy out there, the gusts are building. Almost no wind this morning but it is fair blowing a hoolie now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 24 September, 2012, 06:34:04 pm
I got home in a lull. And now it's blowing a gale.

I need to get back into the habit of obsessive weather checking, don't I?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 24 September, 2012, 08:54:45 pm
18kph up Airport Way into it, 75” gear, towing a trailer.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil W on 24 September, 2012, 09:04:50 pm
I dodged the rain at both  ;D ends of the day, but the wind was a bit fresh on the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 24 September, 2012, 09:35:17 pm
Forgot to apply raceblades this morning, and ended up very, very squelchy. It's that moment at which you first feel the cold water start to infect your socks, then trickle down into your shoes, that's the worst, I think.

That, and wringing out the black water from them and tights afterwards. Oh, and dodging the spray from similarly unadorned bikes (I felt very embarrassed in my bare tyre state for inflicting that on others).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 24 September, 2012, 09:51:42 pm
squelchy? ha ha ha ha.

Try puddles 8" deep.

I think Leeds needs to clear some drains
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 24 September, 2012, 10:33:14 pm
I see your 8" deep puddle and raise you 100 feet standing water by the pigs (rained all day, washing sand & shit onto the track) with a fixed wheel.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 24 September, 2012, 11:32:30 pm
Went through a mini flood on the street-machine tonight. Underestimated the depth, because I managed to get a bow wave/spray up to my arse. And I'm high up on that thing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 24 September, 2012, 11:35:09 pm
Quote from: tonycollinet on 24 September, 2012, 11:32:30 pm
Went through a mini flood on the street-machine tonight. Underestimated the depth, because I managed to get a bow wave/spray up to my arse. And I'm high up on that thing.

!   :o

That's a level of comedy off-roading (underwater counts as COR by default, even if there's tarmac in there somewhere) that I don't have the nerve to attempt.  Not least because I value my SON.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 25 September, 2012, 06:50:41 am
To be fair, it was more spray than bow wave. Still somewhat deeper than I was expecting.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 September, 2012, 07:17:36 am
Back to fixed today, now I have a new rim. Hope I've set up the gears ok
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bloomers100 on 25 September, 2012, 08:24:23 am
Some unusual anvil topped clouds this morning.

 (http://i751.photobucket.com/albums/xx158/Bloomers100/IMAG0312.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 25 September, 2012, 08:51:55 am
Quote from: hatler on 24 September, 2012, 12:29:30 pm
Not a bad day for a cyclo-commute.

Tail wind this morning and same again forecast for this evening.

I always reckon if you get all three of cold, wet and headwind, it's a bad day, but I can tolerate any two without problem. And how often is it both really cold and wet ?
And I missed all the rain yesterday. It was sunny for my run home. Sorry everybody.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 September, 2012, 09:08:23 am
Quote from: clarion on 25 September, 2012, 07:17:36 am
Back to fixed today, now I have a new rim. Hope I've set up the gears ok

Oh that felt good.  I'm not enamoured of the more suedey feel of my new Charge Spoon, but my legs were happy.  Loads of cyclists on the road - I was frequently in a group of two dozen or more - but waaaaay too many motor vehicles holding things up, whether parked, broken down, or just being their roadblock normal selves.  I hope this is not a peek into the future.  South London was a squeak away from gridlock.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 25 September, 2012, 09:20:14 am
Quote from: fboab on 24 September, 2012, 10:33:14 pm
I see your 8" deep puddle and raise you 100 feet standing water by the pigs (rained all day, washing sand & shit onto the track) with a fixed wheel.
100 feet!  :o  Did you breath using a snorkel?

Very cold, very wet this morning. Arms shaking with cold now and hardly able to move elbows. Jagwire brake blocks are useless in the wet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 September, 2012, 09:26:05 am
Should I mention that, while unseasonably cool, it was dry and sunny in Lahndan? 

Thought not.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 25 September, 2012, 10:52:44 am
Quote from: clarion on 25 September, 2012, 09:08:23 am
Quote from: clarion on 25 September, 2012, 07:17:36 am
Back to fixed today, now I have a new rim. Hope I've set up the gears ok

Oh that felt good.  I'm not enamoured of the more suedey feel of my new Charge Spoon, but my legs were happy.  Loads of cyclists on the road - I was frequently in a group of two dozen or more - but waaaaay too many motor vehicles holding things up, whether parked, broken down, or just being their roadblock normal selves.  I hope this is not a peek into the future.  South London was a squeak away from gridlock.

Vauxhall Bridge southbound closed, I think. More gridlock like that, and we might get some of the lazy fcukers out of their tin boxes and onto bikes. Yay for car gridlock. :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 September, 2012, 10:54:38 am
Oh yes.  There was as much smoke coming out of ears as from exhaust pipes, and I expect a lot of us suffered the rough end of that frustration, but I hope that some of them get it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 25 September, 2012, 11:29:35 am
It was more than brisk this morning (though thankful it was dry!).

Only the second ride in to work this month.  The September total will be pitiful. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dibdib on 25 September, 2012, 12:37:58 pm
actually from yesterday's car commute:

Yes, MAMIL-with-soot-bike-and-full-BMC-replica-kit, I know you're allowed to filter outside queueing traffic, but do you have any idea how much it'll hurt me when you cycle straight into my car bumper doing 35mph in the other direction? If there's oncoming traffic, maybe getting in your own lane would be a good idea.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 25 September, 2012, 12:56:50 pm
Was there room for you to move over and give him space?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil W on 25 September, 2012, 01:01:09 pm
Lovely and sunny this morning and little wind.  Autumn is coming though; down to 5c.  When will it be time to stop wearing shorts?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 25 September, 2012, 03:04:20 pm
Quote from: Phil W on 25 September, 2012, 01:01:09 pm
When will it be time to stop wearing shorts?

About a week ago, here in the far North. Of Suffolk

This morning; a PW: 39min/11km
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 25 September, 2012, 04:32:59 pm
The village of Chew Magna on my commute is still under water.
(http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/63084000/jpg/_63084938_floods_240912_ex_truck000000.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 25 September, 2012, 05:43:04 pm
Quote from: Feline on 25 September, 2012, 04:32:59 pm
The village of Chew Magna on my commute is still under water.
(http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/63084000/jpg/_63084938_floods_240912_ex_truck000000.jpg)

Suck Magna? (through a straw?)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 25 September, 2012, 05:43:58 pm
Quote from: Ham on 25 September, 2012, 05:43:04 pm
Quote from: Feline on 25 September, 2012, 04:32:59 pm
The village of Chew Magna on my commute is still under water.
(http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/63084000/jpg/_63084938_floods_240912_ex_truck000000.jpg)

Suck Magna? (through a straw?)

 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 25 September, 2012, 06:14:59 pm
When I got home tonight, I noticed my barley was sitting on the rails of the Bagman but unattached in any way. (I do remember now just dumping it there when I took it off the fixed last night.)
 
That means it survived the ride to work, 8 hours parked up on the bike racks and then the ride home.
I consider myself a lucky boy. :-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Domestique on 25 September, 2012, 06:41:04 pm
On the commute today I went past this  :(

Quote
A WOMAN was pinned against a wall by a car following a crash in Westcliff.

http://www.echo-news.co.uk/news/9948153.Woman_pinned_against_wall_by_car/
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil W on 25 September, 2012, 06:54:20 pm
Quote

About a week ago, here in the far North. Of Suffolk

 ;D There was a enough difference between sunshine and shade that if someone could develop an effective heat exchanger.....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 25 September, 2012, 09:11:05 pm
Quote from: Basil on 25 September, 2012, 06:14:59 pm
When I got home tonight, I noticed my barley was sitting on the rails of the Bagman but unattached in any way. (I do remember now just dumping it there when I took it off the fixed last night.)
 
That means it survived the ride to work, 8 hours parked up on the bike racks and then the ride home.
I consider myself a lucky boy. :-)

I've found that one of my bagman QR cleat thingies hasn't engaged (after putting it back on the bike following the journey home from a FNRttC), and it didn't noticeably move, or fall off, during my normal short sprint home, where on a good day I'll hit 30mph going along Wellesley Road (https://maps.google.co.uk/?ll=51.376067,-0.098276&spn=0.039807,0.077162&t=m&z=14&layer=c&cbll=51.375987,-0.098236&panoid=NtKPRNRcFZEDKxlgyuR1Iw&cbp=12,342.98,,0,6.61).  The Bagman is a handy thing for keeping the Barley on the bike. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 25 September, 2012, 09:53:19 pm
A wee bit blowy this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 26 September, 2012, 09:27:38 am
There was an agglomeration of boys and girls in blue on the Southwark Street/Southwark Bridge junction (a drift?). A little strange as they normally hang to the north to catch RLJers, today they were actually on the junction south  side and both east and west.  They appeared to be interacting with cyclists but I couldn't be certain, I also appear to have found a small quantity of sense or self interest left in my brane, coz I didn't ask why they weren't interacting with the drivers infringing the ASL which they could clearly see in front of their faces. Maybe I should have done.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 September, 2012, 09:32:27 am
Wet this morning.  I was a bit scared of all road metalwork, but I'll get over it eventually.

No cars parked outside the taxi office on CS7 this morning.  Because the Police had taped off the whole of the street.  I hope they posted officers to advise cyclists of diversions, as I only saw the North end of things.  No sign of why it was closed, but I think they were just clearing up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 26 September, 2012, 09:40:18 am
I had a front wheel visitation this morning. The first in ages - it must have first happened at the approach to Albert Bridge because I thought the handling was a bit squirelly, but put it down to spilled diesel or something, but it got worse and worse until I finally twigged what was going on. There's nothing like changing an innertube literally in sight of work, but knowing that it's not a practical walk in because the entrance to the carpark is on the other side of the block about 2 km away!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 26 September, 2012, 09:56:45 am
This morning, as usual, I rolled down the outside of a loooong line of cars waiting in single file to reach a set of traffic lights where I turn right.  At the lights the single line of traffic either turns right onto the main A38 Bristol Road or goes straight ahead into the University gates.  About 50/50.  Hardly anyone turns left.
At the front of the queue a car was indicating right, so I pulled up alongside the second car, which was not indicating.
Down comes the window
Her: “Don’t sit there.  I’m turning right”
Me: “If you’d used your indicators, I’d have know that”
Her: “The lights are red.”
Me: (This is a favourite hobby horse of mine) “If your indicators don’t work until you are actually making the turn, you should get them fixed”
Her: “The lights are red”
Me:   ???  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 26 September, 2012, 10:07:57 am
That's one of my least favourite things brummie motorists do, along with not indicating on roundabouts.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 26 September, 2012, 10:08:27 am
Mudguards on commuting bicycles.

Spread the word.  Please.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 September, 2012, 10:09:29 am
Quote from: davelodwig on 26 September, 2012, 10:07:57 am
That's one of my least favourite things brummie motorists do, along with not indicating on roundabouts.

At least she spoke to you.  In London, she'd just have driven over you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 26 September, 2012, 10:35:48 am
29.6kph. 51.0kph.

Two new PBs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 26 September, 2012, 07:21:41 pm
(http://sphotos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/298367_10151151395906839_1368806460_n.jpg)
A trifle damp....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: madcow on 26 September, 2012, 07:50:23 pm
Is that Fulford Road?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 26 September, 2012, 08:00:12 pm
Yup, at lunchtime today. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 26 September, 2012, 08:04:26 pm
Quote from: Basil on 26 September, 2012, 09:56:45 am
This morning, as usual, I rolled down the outside of a loooong line of cars waiting in single file to reach a set of traffic lights where I turn right.  At the lights the single line of traffic either turns right onto the main A38 Bristol Road or goes straight ahead into the University gates.  About 50/50.  Hardly anyone turns left.

That's me that is.

Also, that's one where the induction loop is half the width of the carriageway on account of an unfortunately positioned manhole.  I've seen cyclists pull up on the manhole to turn right in the evenings (when there isn't a steady stream of University traffic or pedestrians to cycle the lights).  I wonder how long they end up waiting...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 26 September, 2012, 08:08:40 pm
Quote from: davelodwig on 26 September, 2012, 10:07:57 am
That's one of my least favourite things brummie motorists do, along with not indicating on roundabouts.

Agreed.  And the hybrid version, where they indicate to leave the roundabout, but not enter it (presumably because they're not on the roundabout yet).  Frequently accompanied by the exasperated "why is that cyclist stopping, I'm turning left" look.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: urban_biker on 27 September, 2012, 11:00:35 am
"No - I'm not going to undertake you on the left while you are sat at a junction indicating left; however much you wait, I'm going to wait longer and move off after you have turned!" Agrhhh

Why do motorists do this? Once they indicate left there is no way I am going down the inside of them but I had one this morning that just sat there expecting me to go for it. He probably thought he was doing me a favour as well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: red marley on 27 September, 2012, 12:21:36 pm
Probably because many many cyclists (on my commute at least), will take every opportunity to pass on the inside.

If there is space to do so and I see a driver indicating left at junction, I will position myself behind and to the right to make it clear to them I am aware they are about to turn left.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 27 September, 2012, 12:43:21 pm
Can't you just move out to the right a bit to help things along? I normally try, if safe, to get to the offside of the car.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil W on 27 September, 2012, 08:41:06 pm
As the heavens opened ....I step through the door fo my house. Rain dodginmg day number 103  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 28 September, 2012, 07:24:07 am
Conversely, having looked out the windows of our office at the skies, and decided it was clear, and then, whilst in the changing room and holding all my wet weather gear, discussed the possibility of rain with another cyclist, I put all of said wet weather gear into the pannier.
The instant I left the bike compound, a fine mist came from nowhere, that within 2 minutes turned into a proper downpour, which followed me all the way home, and then ceased at the instant I put my key in the door.
The kind of wet that you can feel sloshing in your shoes. Good thing I enjoyed it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 28 September, 2012, 09:39:57 am
My Hope has developed a Senso setting. Or, I was lucky that the batteries ran out at exactly the point that it was light enough not to matter.
It's a glass half full kind of day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 28 September, 2012, 01:16:46 pm
Today was just one of those near perfect rides. Red lights often changed to green as I approached. Van drivers held back to give me space.  Other cyclists waited behind or beside me in the ASZs.  The legs felt strong and even the wind seemed to be in my favour.

Shoes are still wet from last night - you can't have everything.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 28 September, 2012, 06:51:11 pm
Fantastic autumn day today.

Chilly start ( sub 10 degrees ), proper dark for about half an hour, and then twiligth for another half hour.
Very clear skies, loads of stars out.

On the ride home, last section is due east, so low sun directly behind me, casting my shadow 20 feet long directly in front of me.   Then a bus approaches from behind, and a huge shadow looms over me, and it feels like the thing is on top of me, but it's not.   It's a good distance back, just with a very long shadow too!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 28 September, 2012, 08:02:21 pm
Lovely ride in, clear skies, not too cold, light wind at my back  :thumbsup:

Ride home it tipped it down, eventually bailed onto a train as I was having to stop every hundred yards to paw ineffectually at my eyes with sodden gloves. Don't know if it was sweat running into my eyes or what but they were stinging to the point where I couldn't keep them open.

Of course whilst waiting for the train the rain eased and once on the train it even turned sunny. Still, no regrets though, got me home sooner for delicious pizza.

Might see if a cycling cap helps at all, they do fit under a helmet don't they?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 28 September, 2012, 08:04:50 pm
Quote from: Ashaman42 on 28 September, 2012, 08:02:21 pm
Lovely ride in, clear skies, not too cold, light wind at my back  :thumbsup:

Ride home it tipped it down, eventually bailed onto a train as I was having to stop every hundred yards to paw ineffectually at my eyes with sodden gloves. Don't know if it was sweat running into my eyes or what but they were stinging to the point where I couldn't keep them open.

Of course whilst waiting for the train the rain eased and once on the train it even turned sunny. Still, no regrets though, got me home sooner for delicious pizza.

Might see if a cycling cap helps at all, they do fit under a helmet don't they?

Were you wearing a helmet ?
If so, have you washed the foam pads recently ?   They absorb sweat after sweat after sweat, and then give it all up when it rains. I almost had to bail out one time because of this.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 28 September, 2012, 08:17:14 pm
Quote from: hatler on 28 September, 2012, 08:04:50 pm
Quote from: Ashaman42 on 28 September, 2012, 08:02:21 pm
Lovely ride in, clear skies, not too cold, light wind at my back  :thumbsup:

Ride home it tipped it down, eventually bailed onto a train as I was having to stop every hundred yards to paw ineffectually at my eyes with sodden gloves. Don't know if it was sweat running into my eyes or what but they were stinging to the point where I couldn't keep them open.

Of course whilst waiting for the train the rain eased and once on the train it even turned sunny. Still, no regrets though, got me home sooner for delicious pizza.

Might see if a cycling cap helps at all, they do fit under a helmet don't they?

Were you wearing a helmet ?
If so, have you washed the foam pads recently ?   They absorb sweat after sweat after sweat, and then give it all up when it rains. I almost had to bail out one time because of this.

Aye, helmet pads effectively become 'salt bags' unless frequently rinsed out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 28 September, 2012, 08:32:59 pm
Quote from: fuzzy on 28 September, 2012, 08:17:14 pm
Quote from: hatler on 28 September, 2012, 08:04:50 pm
Quote from: Ashaman42 on 28 September, 2012, 08:02:21 pm
Lovely ride in, clear skies, not too cold, light wind at my back  :thumbsup:

Ride home it tipped it down, eventually bailed onto a train as I was having to stop every hundred yards to paw ineffectually at my eyes with sodden gloves. Don't know if it was sweat running into my eyes or what but they were stinging to the point where I couldn't keep them open.

Of course whilst waiting for the train the rain eased and once on the train it even turned sunny. Still, no regrets though, got me home sooner for delicious pizza.

Might see if a cycling cap helps at all, they do fit under a helmet don't they?

Were you wearing a helmet ?
If so, have you washed the foam pads recently ?   They absorb sweat after sweat after sweat, and then give it all up when it rains. I almost had to bail out one time because of this.

Aye, helmet pads effectively become 'salt bags' unless frequently rinsed out.

They become unbearably stinky before that, IMHO...

Pad washing is a weekly necessity here.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 28 September, 2012, 08:38:46 pm
I did wonder about that last time re the pad. And did wash it recently (maybe for the first time since I bought it) as it was noticably whiffy not that it smelt completely better after washing.

I think it's time for a new helmet anyway but will soak over night in bicarb to see if that cleans it better.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 01 October, 2012, 09:05:44 am
Small silver hatchback S*05 *WD who despite me taking a very strong primary on the mini-roundabout at the Jewel tried to overtake me anyway and missed my back wheel by centimetres. He then wound his window down to tell me to move over and I called him a fucking twat. Then a minute later I was unnecessarily overtaken at a pinchpoint by a Lothian & Borders police patrol car.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 01 October, 2012, 09:30:51 am
Suggested to a student waiting at the lights that she might wish to reposition herself from the extreme right to the centre of the RH lane as it would make life easier for the bus turning R into the road (who would also have had to negotiate a parked car,  meaning that the student was right where the bus would need to be to turn. Got a thank you from the bus driver and the student.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 October, 2012, 09:36:39 am
I am surprised by the number of cyclists on my commute who ride with the qr on their dp brakes open.

This morning, I was surprised by how poor my rear brake was after I'd fettled it yesterday.

:facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hulver on 01 October, 2012, 11:23:15 am
Quote from: clarion on 01 October, 2012, 09:36:39 am
I am surprised by the number of cyclists on my commute who ride with the qr on their dp brakes open.

This morning, I was surprised by how poor my rear brake was after I'd fettled it yesterday.

:facepalm:

I once spent quite a bit of time tightening up my brake so that it was a good positive response on the handle, but just enough clearance on the rim. Then noticed that I'd left the QR open.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 01 October, 2012, 11:45:47 am
Brixton was interesting for me this morning. Stopped a few people in their tracks with a good below of 'Look!' as I performed an emergency stop - the only person not to stop was the driver of the car that emerged from a side road on my left without slowing or even glancing in my direction. It was one of those wet weather stops that went surprisingly well, though I think it lead to making my next unexpected stop a lot more exciting. Less than a hundred yards further on a schoolboy walked straight out from a path through the adjacent estate across the pavement and into the road. It wouldn't have been as hard a stop as the one before but I think having nice clean and dry rims and blocks meant I locked the front wheel, I don't know how but I managed to pick the front end back up and swerve back away from the side of the car that I got uncomfortably close to in the outside lane.
Then at the Oval I shouted effectively at the driver of a car that was attempting to corral the cyclists ahead of him into the cycle lane with his front wing. He really wasn't looking beyond the end of his bonnet as he was only a couple of seconds away from the red lights which had thirty odd cyclists already stopped across the road ahead of him. Uncountable pedal cycles, seven motorbikes,and two cars - at least one driven by a berk. We're winning, even in the wet!

Edit: Ineffectively, I definitely typed 'ineffectively shouted at the driver..' fortunately I did spot my phone changing 'berk' into 'hero'.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 01 October, 2012, 03:25:35 pm
Quote from: clarion on 01 October, 2012, 09:36:39 am
I am surprised by the number of cyclists on my commute who ride with the qr on their dp brakes open.

I do this all the time, usually as a result of forgetting to close it when replacing the wheel. I don't usually get very far before realising my mistake though, and I certainly wouldn't continue to ride around with it open once I've realised.
 
d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 October, 2012, 03:29:03 pm
Once I'd realised what I'd done, I did close the qr, but I'm embarrassed to say it took a while.  The brakes in the new configuration (bullhorns) have been a bit difficult, and I tightened them up last night, but just forgot to finish the job.  Hence it was a bit slacker than yesterday, to the point where my lever was just touching the bar tape, but usable.  In fact, I'd overtightened it slightly, and had to let it out when I got a chance to stop it rubbing.

It is, of course, the second brake on that wheel.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 01 October, 2012, 06:48:33 pm
I had a bump on the usual psyclepath.  Middle-aged bloke weaving along on an MTB like a fart in a trance, first riding on one side then the other.  I slowed down, rang my bell six times and then passed with as wide a berth as possible, just as he turned right into a driveway.  We clashed shoulders hard, but no-one fell off and he didn't even appear to notice.  Very, very drunk, I think.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 01 October, 2012, 07:31:00 pm
I met a fellow cyclist. We rode together for, oo 30 yards before I turned to pass the pigs. That's a first, on my rural commutes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 October, 2012, 08:55:14 pm
Went via Richmond Park.  Slower than normal - by about five minutes in the usual forty-five to get to RP - which was a bit of a downer, though I made sure I didn't lose any more time after that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 02 October, 2012, 04:38:18 pm
Bejeebus, I just cycled past the local school at the kicking out time. I know it's bad, but I always forget how bad by mostly avoiding cycling at this time of the day.

Anyway, the big yellow zig-zags, does anyone know what they mean? Well, you're wrong. They mean Audi Q7 parking only. Two of the fuckers, crouched there right outside the gates, looking like bungalows taking a shit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 02 October, 2012, 04:48:27 pm
My legs are not happy with me after 20 minutes on the treadmill on Saturday. I took the option of going through Winscombe on the way to the station at Yatton this morning. Kind of a last minute decision and stuck to roads all the way (Winscombe, Sandford, Puxton, Congesbury, Yatton). This seems to add 2.5 miles compared to the shortest route. It’s further than the A38 route but less hilly.

I then had a protracted discussion about the validity of my train ticket with the train staff. I was sold the ticket with reservation online, and showed them the confirmation email, and in the end they let me continue without paying a (hefty) surcharge. It’s an off-peak ticket and the journey arrives in London in the rush hour but I am just passing through. Interestingly, if I try to book the reverse journey with the same times, that time isn’t offered. I wonder if there’s an asymmetry in off-peak out and return restrictions? Despite the late arrival of the service in London and the stupidly long walk through Paddington station to the southern entrance from the far end of the train, I made my early connection to Cambridge in time today, so wasn’t late for work. 2/4 now.
       
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil W on 02 October, 2012, 06:58:46 pm
Blustery showers today and fewer cyclists today
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 02 October, 2012, 07:11:12 pm
I could have got wetter on the ride home. Of course, I'd have to have cycled in the sea to manage that.

But the headwind wasn't as bad as feared and it wasn't too cold and I got so wet it was ridiculous so I had a whale of a time.

Glad most of my ride is quietish roads as I couldn't see diddly mind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 02 October, 2012, 07:12:52 pm
Had a change of plan about my route... didn't fancy the river path somehow.

(http://sphotos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/s480x480/577110_10151159357836839_1287484528_n.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 02 October, 2012, 07:16:34 pm
That's pretty-much a bridge, CL!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 02 October, 2012, 07:24:42 pm
These past two days, London commuters have done a stellar job of PISSING ME OFF.  On the other hand, their attempts to seriously injure and/or kill me have been only a fraction better than feeble.

Please, if you're going to do something, do it properly or not at all.  Otherwise I may catch up with you . . .
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 03 October, 2012, 08:48:21 am
Andrij

Its not just me then - the general level of complete idiocy has returned with a vengeance since the end of the Olympics.  Parliament Square was lovely for about 6 weeks - and the one lane only over Westminster Bridge eastbound was better - you took the lane and then peeled left a bit (or not, if there was a bus or 5 parked on the bridge).  I didn't get beeped or shouted at once.

Now that the normal lanes have resumed (one left to Embankment, a middle lane left or straight ahead, and right hand lane straight ahead - but the cycle lane, such as it was, hasn't been repainted) - you are trying to take a straight line across the left of the bridge, which puts you in the middle lane. If you 'take the lane', it is likely you will get overtaken from the right and then left hooked as the assumption is you are also turning left (the fact that probably 99% of bikes in this lane are going straight ahead is beside the point).  If you ride close to the white line on the right of the lane, you are too far over to take a straight line across the bridge, and are likely to get undertaken to the left by a bus or taxi, making a legitimate straight ahead move.  Then you get beeped for being in the 'fast' lane.

Before the Olympics there was a small cycle lane painted in between lanes as you approach the bridge, and all the cyclists just headed up that, which gave you a straight line to the bus lane on the bridge.  Everyone else expected you to be there, and it generally worked.  I have been doing that commute for a year now, and had never been beeped until after the Olympics when TFL didn't repaint it.

 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 03 October, 2012, 09:25:42 am
It didn't start to rain until I got home but I still got to see the fabulous rainy skies from my bike. Two farm dogs looked ready to attack me - then turned tail and ran away. The hole to the centre of the earth near the little bridge was disguised as a puddle but I remembered it was there and rode around it. Ditto the specially slimy bits in the slimy ford. And there was a definite frosty nip in the air -most refreshing :-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 03 October, 2012, 09:28:54 am
Rode home last night with two bikes. The big hole in the road has been filled in. A transit van took rather a close interest in me cycling along wheeling another bike. I had full lights and reflectives, and the other bike had several aldi flashing red trouser bands attached. The van then passed and I notices the blue and yellow reflectives. They obviously had something better to do.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 03 October, 2012, 09:41:26 am
Quote from: David Martin on 03 October, 2012, 09:28:54 am
Rode home last night with two bikes. The big hole in the road has been filled in. A transit van took rather a close interest in me cycling along wheeling another bike. I had full lights and reflectives, and the other bike had several aldi flashing red trouser bands attached. The van then passed and I notices the blue and yellow reflectives. They obviously had something better to do.
I do this occasionally. Is it legal ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 03 October, 2012, 12:45:22 pm
Thames Water are busy in Reading.  We can lend you a few big holes if you need them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 03 October, 2012, 01:31:51 pm
had a little chat with fixillated this morning, we were both going the same way to work
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 03 October, 2012, 02:17:05 pm
Quote from: hatler on 03 October, 2012, 09:41:26 am
Quote from: David Martin on 03 October, 2012, 09:28:54 am
Rode home last night with two bikes.
I do this occasionally. Is it legal ?

I doubt it.  Not in full control of the vehicle, or some such.  Solution would be to couple the bikes together (attach fork to rear rack, trail-gator, trailer, that sort of thing).

Suspect the average plod's main interest would be whether you'd just nicked the second bike, though.  In which case it's about proof of ownership and not failing the attitude test.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 03 October, 2012, 02:28:25 pm
That makes sense, thank you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tigerrr on 03 October, 2012, 06:15:35 pm
Met a lovely veteran from Kingston Pheonix on teh commute today, heading out to Liverpool St to ride in Sussex. Full vintage touring audax type, even the old school shoes and thick tights - obviously not a commuter, had that 'out of towner' about him. I hope he had a nice day out. I d like to be as fit as that when I am his age.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wowbagger on 03 October, 2012, 06:19:38 pm
Quote from: Tigerrr on 03 October, 2012, 06:15:35 pm
Met a lovely veteran from Kingston Pheonix on teh commute today, heading out to Liverpool St to ride in Sussex. Full vintage touring audax type, even the old school shoes and thick tights - obviously not a commuter, had that 'out of towner' about him. I hope he had a nice day out. I d like to be as fit as that when I am his age.

Pardon me asking, but why would anyone intending to ride in Sussex head for Lpoo St?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil W on 03 October, 2012, 06:54:46 pm
Quote from: Wowbagger on 03 October, 2012, 06:19:38 pm
Quote from: Tigerrr on 03 October, 2012, 06:15:35 pm
Met a lovely veteran from Kingston Pheonix on teh commute today, heading out to Liverpool St to ride in Sussex. Full vintage touring audax type, even the old school shoes and thick tights - obviously not a commuter, had that 'out of towner' about him. I hope he had a nice day out. I d like to be as fit as that when I am his age.

Pardon me asking, but why would anyone intending to ride in Sussex head for Lpoo St?

Probably meant suffolk
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: henshaw11 on 03 October, 2012, 06:55:43 pm
Quote from: Wowbagger on 03 October, 2012, 06:19:38 pm
Quote from: Tigerrr on 03 October, 2012, 06:15:35 pm
Met a lovely veteran from Kingston Pheonix on teh commute today, heading out to Liverpool St to ride in Sussex. Full vintage touring audax type, even the old school shoes and thick tights - obviously not a commuter, had that 'out of towner' about him. I hope he had a nice day out. I d like to be as fit as that when I am his age.

Pardon me asking, but why would anyone intending to ride in Sussex head for Lpoo St?

Easy to confuse ffolk with ssex (phonetically speaking..)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 03 October, 2012, 07:11:15 pm
This morning - cool, crisp, a tiny nip in the air, gorgeous golden sidelighting on the world, shades of coral and flame and russet and chestnut everywhere.  A perfect autumn ride.

Lunchtime - sunshine!  Too warm for a jacket.  Too warm for sleeves.  Summer's back!

This evening - nithering cold wet drizzle, time for the lights on, being pushed into potholes by impatient drivers. Winter already?

I wonder what season tomorrow will be.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 03 October, 2012, 08:32:45 pm
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 03 October, 2012, 07:11:15 pm
I wonder what season tomorrow will be.

Today I rode through two seasons:  Summer and Manchester.  Unfortunately not in that order.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 03 October, 2012, 10:10:55 pm
freewheel became half stuck yesterday.... so flipped the wheel to the fixed cog for the first time yesterday and did almost sh*t in my pants a few  times on the way. Funny how quickly you get rid of your pernicious coasting habits.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 03 October, 2012, 10:28:44 pm
Quote from: Arno on 03 October, 2012, 10:10:55 pm
freewheel became half stuck yesterday.... so flipped the wheel to the fixed cog for the first time yesterday and did almost sh*t in my pants a few  times on the way. Funny how quickly you get rid of your pernicious coasting habits.
The really odd one is where you mostly ride fixed and then struggle to stop pedalling when riding with gears.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 04 October, 2012, 08:18:55 am
I forgot my pants.

 :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 04 October, 2012, 08:22:25 am
(snigger)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 04 October, 2012, 08:51:32 am
'Twas bright and chilly with mist hanging in the air over the meadows as I rode to work.

This morning was the first morning I arrived at work with a silver sheen on my gloves and the front of my knee warmers. I finished my ruide with my glasses perched on the end of my nose as the lenses had covered in dew, there was dew dripping from the front of my helmet and, when I got undressed for my shower, the front of my thighs were Ferrari red.

Summer has gone ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 04 October, 2012, 08:54:31 am
Frost! Proper frost!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 October, 2012, 09:09:20 am
Nearly frost here.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 04 October, 2012, 09:11:36 am
Frost up the hill. We are 20m too low today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 04 October, 2012, 09:12:51 am
Frost here too. My hands nearly fell off and I still can't feel my feet nearly 3 hours later!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 04 October, 2012, 09:15:29 am
A beautiful clear cold sunny Autumn morning. The big muck heap at the stables has been shifted and where the new one is you could see huge tendrils of steam coming off it. And a woman in a nice blue VW Beetle with flars painted on it did a truly dim overtaking manoeuvre.And there was a tiny brown pony eating his breakfast. But I loathe the Big Roundabout. Loathe it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 04 October, 2012, 02:47:00 pm
Pretty morning :). I was a bit nervous riding up into Streatham in case I encountered the driver that drove into me yesterday. I was prepared to make a rapid detour and had an idea in my head where I could go if I saw that van again, but in the event I didn't, it was a lovely morning and someone draughted me along Streatham Hill, which made me laugh since I was only going about 20 MPH flat out after I spotted him and sped up a bit ;D.

Phew.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: padbeat on 05 October, 2012, 12:19:14 am
Luckily I was turning left into the same junction the driver was turning left into, otherwise it would have been really unpleasant. As it was it was just normal unpleasant as I locked up the back halfway round the bend as I grabbed the brakes. As a happy coincidence, this turned me sufficiently quickly that my line no longer took me into the side of his car.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 05 October, 2012, 07:52:40 am
Quote from: Butterfly on 04 October, 2012, 02:47:00 pm
Pretty morning :). I was a bit nervous riding up into Streatham in case I encountered the driver that drove into me yesterday. I was prepared to make a rapid detour and had an idea in my head where I could go if I saw that van again, but in the event I didn't, it was a lovely morning and someone draughted me along Streatham Hill, which made me laugh since I was only going about 20 MPH flat out after I spotted him and sped up a bit ;D.

Phew.

Oooh, sorry to hear that Butterfly! Did I miss the tale on here?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 05 October, 2012, 09:26:35 am
This morning I proved myself to be harder than the weather.

When I got out of bed it was hooning it down with rain.

As I completed my ablutions, sorted lunch etc. it continued hooning it down with rain.

After packing the pannier, gathering my stuff together and opening the front door, the weather spied me and must have thought "Shit, he looks hard. Time to saunter off unnoticed like".

After preparing the bike and getting the wet weather gear on the rain had run away ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 05 October, 2012, 10:24:00 am
Just before I left the house this morning, my wife asked, "Are you going to be OK?"

"Eh? What?"

"Look at the weather!"

"Oh, that..."

I'd obviously registered that it was pissing down and blowing a gale because I'd dressed appropriately for the conditions, but I hadn't given a moment's thought to whether or not I wanted to go out in it. I mean, the choice of clothing was the only difference in my mind between today and a warm, sunny summer's day.

;D

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 05 October, 2012, 10:27:03 am
Only the choice of clothing?

For me it was the hub deep 100 foot 'puddle' (I'm going to have to detour to avoid that lane past the pigs) and arriving at work with wet feet that gave the game away.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 05 October, 2012, 10:29:22 am
You need to cycle in wellies
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 05 October, 2012, 10:31:03 am
Quote from: padbeat on 05 October, 2012, 12:19:14 am
Luckily I was turning left into the same junction the driver was turning left into, otherwise it would have been really unpleasant. As it was it was just normal unpleasant as I locked up the back halfway round the bend as I grabbed the brakes. As a happy coincidence, this turned me sufficiently quickly that my line no longer took me into the side of his car.

Please tell me that the junction in question was the base entrance.  :demon: and that suitable re-education was therefore possible
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 05 October, 2012, 10:31:30 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 05 October, 2012, 10:29:22 am
You need to cycle in wellies

Can you get spd wellies?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 05 October, 2012, 10:34:21 am
Not today but last night. Upper Thames St (urban semi-DC). I need to turn right ahead (Queen St) but there's a tour bus about a yard off my mudguard. I look round a few times to see whether he will pass or if I can get an opportunity to sgnal. The road widens a bit and he pulls alongside, smiling and waving and points to his eyes, which I assume means "yes, I can see you".

He then proceeds to overtake while turning left onto Southwark Bridge. FFS.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 05 October, 2012, 10:37:02 am
Quote from: boabacca on 05 October, 2012, 10:27:03 am
Only the choice of clothing?

For me it was the hub deep 100 foot 'puddle' (I'm going to have to detour to avoid that lane past the pigs) and arriving at work with wet feet that gave the game away.

There are parts of my preferred route that are prone to accumulating standing water but fortunately it hadn't been raining long enough this morning for it to have accumulated yet.

I did get a bit splashed by cars speeding through puddles while I was waiting to cross the main road though. Ho hum.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 05 October, 2012, 10:40:10 am
Quote from: boabacca on 05 October, 2012, 10:31:30 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 05 October, 2012, 10:29:22 am
You need to cycle in wellies

Can you get spd wellies?
I'm sure we Kim could molish some.

Just console yourself, it could have been worse. You could have been riding a recumbent trike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 05 October, 2012, 11:10:13 am
Very sluggish start to my commute (yes I do have the lurgy then), plus earlier than normal for a 9am meeting. There was a significant queue on Coldhams Lane which isn’t normally there later on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 05 October, 2012, 11:10:38 am
When we went for a snow MTB ride a year or two ago, my MTB mate was well disgusted at me wearing wellies. Still, I had dry warm feet, and he didn't.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 05 October, 2012, 12:29:58 pm
Theres a fine line between dawdling in on a nice morning and not being as alert as possible, and going fast and being alert. 
Today I was too close to the dawdling on a nice morning line.   When I checked my mirror, a taxi had come into my lane and was squeezing past with inches to spare.     I usually check my mirror often enough for things not to appear from nowhere.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 05 October, 2012, 04:47:51 pm
Lots and lots and lots of stupidly close and silly fast passes (in both directions) on the busy wiggly b road with the absolutely shocking road surface, including ridiculous overtakes (both on the way to and the way back from) whilst riding in primary through the series of blind bends.   Daft busy day where I stayed stupid amounts later that I should.

Meh.

Got shedloads done and got fed a Very Good school dinner.  Now it is the weekend, and I'm about to go collect Cubs.  Sunshine, short sleeves.  Went to work on m'bike.  All is well with the world.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 05 October, 2012, 08:08:11 pm
Two hours and I'm nearly half way home on the bus. It takes ten minutes to get this far on the bike. I think some unpleasant things have been happening on the roads this evening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 05 October, 2012, 08:15:59 pm
Quote from: fuzzy on 05 October, 2012, 09:26:35 am
This morning I proved myself to be harder than the weather.

When I got out of bed it was hooning it down with rain.

As I completed my ablutions, sorted lunch etc. it continued hooning it down with rain.

After packing the pannier, gathering my stuff together and opening the front door, the weather spied me and must have thought "Shit, he looks hard. Time to saunter off unnoticed like".

After preparing the bike and getting the wet weather gear on the rain had run away ;D

This evening, I proved myself to still be harder than the weather.

It was dry and reasonably bright all afternoon. About half an hour before I left work however, this mornings cowardly rain storm/ shower had snuck back reinforced by his big brother. Was I fazed? Course not. I just donned my wet weather gear again and cycled home with a smile and a song :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 05 October, 2012, 08:43:38 pm
The amount of crappy driving I saw in rain and poor visibility this evening beggars belief.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 08 October, 2012, 12:17:01 pm
It was a pretty good commute:
* Left in time to do the 20km version
* Got to work before the rain began to fall
* I didn't use a single boab-word!

The last point should not be read as there being no poor usage of the Queen's Highway, just that there were no near-death incident.  For a change.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 08 October, 2012, 12:20:41 pm
Fog. Proper Vale Of York fog out in the sticks, too (ie. so thick you can chop it into cubes and use it as building material)

Walmgate Stray was full of freshers so it was a bit like wading through a room full of puppies whilst wearing crampons. Comic relief was provided by a cow who decided it was going to take a dump as one of aforementioned freshers walked past (the cow had its arse facing the path, for added LOL-value)

Also got to use the Ay-Ups in anger for the first time, which was nice - pity that the vast majority of drivers I encountered obviously felt that headlights and foglights would present an unacceptably large drain on their batteries.

If the view out of the office window is any indication, it'll be nice and sunny for the ride home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 08 October, 2012, 06:31:20 pm
A new one on me, waiting in the ASL, hear a diesel engine come up behind, then there's a loud grating gruff noise. I don't turn round, the lights change, I'm off at a fast pace to get to a pinch point, which is why the ASL's there in the first place, and the engine screams with acceleration as much as a frigging 1.8 diesel engine can scream away from a standing stop and a white van slices past and gets in front then swerves to get thru the pinch point, I'd already been covering the hoods and had eased off. As the van passes a lovely chestnut-coloured Rottweiler has his head and shoulders out of the passenger window. There was no reason for him to bark,nothing had happened, I think the driver had sicced him on me. I think he'd wound his dog up on purpose by saying "squirrels" or whatever.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 08 October, 2012, 06:38:25 pm
Bristol Road South was absolutely slopping in diesel (westbound, on the bit past the hospital that makes me nervous at the best of times).  I suspect a bus with a fuel leak, as the main pool was in a bus stop, but had then been spread liberally around the carriageway for the following kilometre by car tyres.  In a shockingly rare break from tradition, I opted to use the shared-use path for safety reasons.

You could smell it from the other side of the dual carriageway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 08 October, 2012, 06:45:10 pm
I was dead right about the trip home - hazy, autumnal sunshine  8)

Looks like it'll be another foggy ride in tomorrow, though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 09 October, 2012, 09:15:15 am
It's definitely too cold for fingerless gloves now  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 09 October, 2012, 09:26:53 am
Quote from: interzen on 08 October, 2012, 06:45:10 pm
Looks like it'll be another foggy ride in tomorrow, though.
Oh, how wrong I was ... the sky is the sort of blue1 you'd associate with a 70s toothpaste commercial, which also means that it's a bit chilly too.

And only one person tried to kill me today - some dozy cow who not only had her hellspawn in the front seat of the car with no evidence of booster/child seat (kid can't have been older than 5 or 6) but also decided that give way lines didn't apply to her  ::-)

Good job I replaced the brake pads on the orange Genesis last night ..

1 - Azure, cerulean, periwinkle - you know, the kind of blue which is far too nice to be lumped in with more mundane shades.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Honest John on 09 October, 2012, 10:01:31 am
Quote from: interzen on 09 October, 2012, 09:26:53 am
1 - Azure, cerulean, periwinkle - you know, the kind of blue which is far too nice to be lumped in with more mundane shades.

No shade of blue can ever be described as mundane.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Marco Stefano on 09 October, 2012, 12:08:01 pm
Beautiful sunrise over Mildenhall. Low-lying mists on the fens, sugar factory nudging out of the mists whilst producing its own cloud.

Chilly but no wind. Still in shorts, but had winter gloves & merino liners.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 09 October, 2012, 01:26:04 pm
Quote from: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 09 October, 2012, 09:15:15 am
It's definitely too cold for fingerless gloves now  :o
Yes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Datameister on 09 October, 2012, 01:48:03 pm
Quote from: boabacca on 09 October, 2012, 01:26:04 pm
Quote from: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 09 October, 2012, 09:15:15 am
It's definitely too cold for fingerless gloves now  :o
Yes.

Does that (in Star Wars speak) make you Boabacca the Wussie?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mr magnolia on 09 October, 2012, 02:05:51 pm
Quote from: boabacca on 09 October, 2012, 01:26:04 pm
Quote from: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 09 October, 2012, 09:15:15 am
It's definitely too cold for fingerless gloves now  :o
Yes.

and I decided this morning that 2 degrees was 'almost' too cold for shorts.  Too late by then though.

I did however enjoy riding in through the dark streets with my new Cyo R 40lux headlight thingy powered from my new wheel built around the cheaply obtained Shimano dynamo thingy.  Makes you feel like a 10year old with a new bike again!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 09 October, 2012, 05:00:10 pm
Start off with a 45 minute cycle to the station, in the dark and pouring rain. Then sit cold and wet on a train for a couple of hours, then get colder cycling in chilly London to the next train, then get cold again cycling in Cambridge. Clothes might be just about dry by the time it’s time to leave work.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CJBrewer on 09 October, 2012, 05:04:46 pm
Quote from: simonp on 09 October, 2012, 05:00:10 pm
Start off with a 45 minute cycle to the station, in the dark and pouring rain. Then sit cold and wet on a train for a couple of hours, then get colder cycling in chilly London to the next train, then get cold again cycling in Cambridge. Clothes might be just about dry by the time it’s time to leave work.

Just how long is your commute? ... Surely you don't do that every day?!  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 09 October, 2012, 05:46:41 pm
Quote from: CJBrewer on 09 October, 2012, 05:04:46 pm
Quote from: simonp on 09 October, 2012, 05:00:10 pm
Start off with a 45 minute cycle to the station, in the dark and pouring rain. Then sit cold and wet on a train for a couple of hours, then get colder cycling in chilly London to the next train, then get cold again cycling in Cambridge. Clothes might be just about dry by the time it’s time to leave work.

Just how long is your commute? ... Surely you don't do that every day?!  :o

Nope, otherwise I’d only be getting about 4h sleep every night, with no time for dinner or breakfast. Commuting daily from Somerset to Cambridge ain’t practical.

 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 09 October, 2012, 09:51:52 pm
Cufaude Lane was flooded (blocked drain) so took scenic route on the other side of the A33 today.  Had v friendly JCB driver who pulled over to let me past and several car drivers who thanked me when I made it easy for them to pass.  All lovey dovey in North Hampshire today.  Might make the route back a more frequent commute even if it is a bit longer.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 10 October, 2012, 09:37:03 am
My front brake that I 'fettled' the other day has become suicidally poor.

It's the only one I use, and at every junction I was surprised anew at its inadequacy.

Sigh. I hate fettling. I also hate having to do a panicked circle in a lane as I couldn't stop in time.  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 10 October, 2012, 09:38:51 am
FFS fuzzy- pay attention!

And you, Audi driver, don't cut that much of the corner when turning righ!

Cookham High Street this morning. I got to the T junction and saw traffic to my left so I slowed and executed an iffy track stand in preperation to turn right when it was safe to do so. I looked again and the last of the traffic to my left, a white Audi estate was about to leave my sphere of conciousness so i started to pull away. At that time I discovered that the Audi was turning left into Cookham High Street. I very nearly T boned him ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: padbeat on 10 October, 2012, 09:48:22 am
Proper foggy this morning, so the new front light got a run out in anger. Flippin WOW! It's a Cree 1800 lumen headtorch/bike light thing, and it is absolutely retina burning. I tried it on flashing mode and gave 3 peds epileptic fits (not really, but it is V bright and V flashy). May have to get one for the back too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 10 October, 2012, 09:50:00 am
Had to have a pop at an RLJ'er who went throught a least 3 red lights with such fuckwitter. As I rode past I told him 'At least that one was green' an un-hearable grumble was returned, later on down the road he wized past me (at a red light) shouting something that was probably offensive, then nearly got hit by an other cyclist......
RJL'ing used to be mostly courier's and 'fixie' riders, now it seems that it's Men in there 40-50's are at it (who have had driving licences for the last 20-30 years  ??? ??? ???)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 10 October, 2012, 10:00:57 am
Fellow cyclist.

I can cope with a lorry overtaking me giving me a minimal amount of room, it happens a lot, but it hardly helps when you decide that you, too, will overtake me, by squeezing between me and the lorry as it passes me. It was quite funny when you had to quickly duck in order to avoid braining yourself on his mirrors, you were so close to him, but also pretty damn dangerous.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 10 October, 2012, 10:07:18 am
Grim looking accident scene at Cedars Road this morning. Cement tanker stopped at the junction. Blue tents up. Fire brigade and Police everywhere.
Not sure if this is a cyclist or a pedestrian, but someone was under the lorry.

Let's hope it's not fatal.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 10 October, 2012, 10:08:08 am
Motorist. Why so slow?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 10 October, 2012, 10:25:36 am
Quote from: alexb on 10 October, 2012, 10:07:18 am
Grim looking accident scene at Cedars Road this morning. Cement tanker stopped at the junction. Blue tents up. Fire brigade and Police everywhere.
Not sure if this is a cyclist or a pedestrian, but someone was under the lorry.

Let's hope it's not fatal.

Cyclist. A colleague was approaching the scene just as the emergency services were arriving. Lots of upset witnesses in the immediate aftermath.

:(

Hope the injuries are not too severe.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 10 October, 2012, 10:39:13 am
A lot of the time, I don't commute because I work at home.

Instead, I eat my cereal, or do the washing up, watching others commute. I have a second floor flat that looks down on a busy road.

This morning's tally (10 minutes or thereabouts watching, Eastbound only): 50 cars - 12 smokers, 10 phone users, 30 were single occupancy, most were restricted to 10mph or less because of congestion.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 10 October, 2012, 11:06:21 am
The shorter the numberplate, the more of a knob they are.

Even though the lane is single track with passing points, I have no problem with oncoming cars and me fitting down the lane together provided they slow right down - keep on driving towards me at 40+mph and you'll soon find you can't go any further as I will make sure there is not enough room.  And, yes, I will be a dick and make you reverse back up the lane to the passing point, and I will smile nicely, wave and say thanks once you let me pass.  All it takes is to either stop at the passing place or to slow down to a speed where I am happy to let your two tonnes of metal pass me at rather less than touching distance.

Knobs of Buckinghamshire are really pissing me off currently.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 10 October, 2012, 11:13:35 am
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 10 October, 2012, 10:25:36 am
Quote from: alexb on 10 October, 2012, 10:07:18 am
Grim looking accident scene at Cedars Road this morning. Cement tanker stopped at the junction. Blue tents up. Fire brigade and Police everywhere.
Not sure if this is a cyclist or a pedestrian, but someone was under the lorry.

Let's hope it's not fatal.
Cyclist. A colleague was approaching the scene just as the emergency services were arriving. Lots of upset witnesses in the immediate aftermath.

:(

Hope the injuries are not too severe.

The road was still closed when I went past (about 1030), and there's no real reason to close it in either direction, so the only reason is to retain any evidence.  That means it was either fatal, or close enough that it may yet be. :(

Lots of police standing around, not doing much.  One cycle policeman directing traffic along Clapham Common North Side (A3), because it's only single traffic due to them closing the northern lane.

That's generally not too bad a junction (not brilliant, but far from being amongst the worst), although a lot of cyclists jump the lights in both directions North-South, for no good reason, other than impatience.  All of the close collisions I've had there, have been cyclists ignoring the red lights in the East-West route, and almost colliding with me, when I'm legally crossing North-South.  They assume that the lights don't apply to them, and presumably are too thick to realise that it's a cross roads for cyclists, coming off of the Common.  I don't think I've ever had a near miss with a motor vehicle (and that's for over a decade of using that junction).

Given that the tanker was likely either turning left or right off of the A3 into Cedar's Avenue, it's hard to see what went wrong, since visibility for both cyclists and tanker would be pretty good.  I guess a cyclist undertaking when he was turning left is the obvious possibility.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 10 October, 2012, 12:57:37 pm
Quote from: TimO on 10 October, 2012, 11:13:35 am
I guess a cyclist undertaking when he was turning left is the obvious possibility.

No idea, so this is all speculation, but my colleague, who rides through there daily, was describing the layout of the vehicles etc and he couldn't see how it could have been so without at least one vehicle and / or the cyclist having jumped a red.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 October, 2012, 01:49:37 pm
Oh. Not good.  I went through that junction again yesterday, and counted my blessings that it's no longer on my regular commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jimini on 10 October, 2012, 02:15:31 pm
Here's the first report (I've seen) on this morning's incident:

http://www.yourlocalguardian.co.uk/news/topstories/9976563.Cyclist_could_lose_use_of_arm_after_lorry_crash/?ref=nt

Quote
Lambeth Police, however, were keen to point out her injuries were not "life-threatening".

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jimini on 10 October, 2012, 02:21:42 pm
Update. (http://www.yourlocalguardian.co.uk/news/9976657.UPDATE__Cyclist__dragged_under_bonnet_of_lorry_/?ref=la)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 10 October, 2012, 03:33:24 pm
Poor lady - I hope she is getting the very best medical attention possible and makes a quick recovery.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 10 October, 2012, 09:38:07 pm
It never ceases to amaze me when cars crash on a perfectly straight (although vertically undulating) stretch of my commute, in the early hours of the morning when it is hard to find another car never mind crash suicidally head on with it  :-\
http://www.thisisthewestcountry.co.uk/news/9972258.Two_die_in_Axbridge_crash/
This was about 300m from my house. My daughter knows one of the guys who is dead, he had a 1 year old baby  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tynan on 10 October, 2012, 10:05:33 pm
what dragged her under the truck?

a troll?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 11 October, 2012, 07:41:01 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 10 October, 2012, 10:00:57 am
Fellow cyclist.

I can cope with a lorry overtaking me giving me a minimal amount of room, it happens a lot, but it hardly helps when you decide that you, too, will overtake me, by squeezing between me and the lorry as it passes me. It was quite funny when you had to quickly duck in order to avoid braining yourself on his mirrors, you were so close to him, but also pretty damn dangerous.
Illogical I know, as the consequences are likely to be far less serious, but it distresses me far more when a cyclist behaves inconsiderately towards me, than when a motorist does so.  Yesterday, as I came off the Waterloo roundabout southbound, and began braking as the lights on the pedestrian crossing ahead were red, a guy, whom I had overtken on the bridge, swooped past me on my left, apparently intending to whizz through the crossing, then braked and swerved into my path to avoid a young woman crossing slightly off piste, as it were.  He managed to narrowly avoid the last few people crossing and I pulled up alongside him at the lights by the Old Vic.  I tried to get eye contact, but he ignored me, then moved off as close to the junction as he could,  and crossed on red when there was a gap in the traffic, just before the lights turned to green.  I passed him again, thought about shouting something, but the moment had passed and my adrenalin rush was over.  Then my new front light seemed to disentegrate, the batteries and led bit bouncing all over the road which distracted me from my usual turn up Webber Row and I ended up heading across the roundabout and up to E and C.  Which I haven't done for a while and rather enjoyed as all the lights were green for me.  That was fun, swooping round except, again, as I turned off to the Walworth Rd from the left lane, two cyclists swerved across the lane and headed straight on towards Newington Butts- they were racing, I am pretty sure, and probably were not too aware of my presence.
   This behaviour spoiled an otherwise enjoyable commute, which included an amazing firework display somewhere near Jubilee Gardens, about 9pmish, visible from Waterloo Bridge- no idea what it was about but very pretty.
    This morning, gorgeous sunrise so extended ride a bit, then two van drivers raced me to a pinch point on Peckham Rye- even though I was well in primary.  Not great, but didn't bother me half as much as the cyclists yesterday, even though, the van drivers could have hurt me much more seriously.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 11 October, 2012, 07:56:04 am
Not so much a new one, more a subtle variation yesterday.  Dog emptiers are nothing if not inventive. 

Going through the park I spotted a dog trotting along, apparently free range.  About three metres away was a youth on a BSO, each on opposite sides of the path.  It was fortunate indeed that I spotted the fishing line diameter extending lead of wank connecting the two.  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 11 October, 2012, 02:08:23 pm
I had brakes.


Which was nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 11 October, 2012, 03:00:42 pm
Last nights ride home was interupted by a twang from the back wheel immediatly followed by an increase in pedal resistance. I looked down and confirmed that the rear wheel was a bit pringled, the result of a broken non drive side spoke.

I struggled home and went to repair the wheel but found that my spare spoke was for the drive side and a tad too short.

I had to use the Sunday best bike this morning. No mudguards so I'm gonna get piss wet through tonight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 11 October, 2012, 03:20:06 pm
Quote from: jane on 11 October, 2012, 07:41:01 am

Illogical I know, as the consequences are likely to be far less serious, but it distresses me far more when a cyclist behaves inconsiderately towards me, than when a motorist does so. 

No, I feel the same (although it is rapidly being eroded). I think it’s because you come to expect a level of stupid behaviour from drivers safely in their box, but hope for some kind of solidarity/empathy from fellow cyclists, which is often not forthcoming. I suppose we shouldn’t be surprised; it’s not like people using other modes of transport are particularly considerate towards one another


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 11 October, 2012, 03:26:16 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 11 October, 2012, 03:20:06 pm
No, I feel the same (although it is rapidly being eroded). I think it’s because you come to expect a level of stupid behaviour from drivers safely in their box, but hope for some kind of solidarity/empathy from fellow cyclists, which is often not forthcoming.

Possibly because of not being in London, but I expect quite the opposite.  Motorist muppetry will be limited to a basic level of predictability, if not legality, out of concern for their insurance premiums and/or paintwork - whereas cyclists seem to feel free to do whatever stupid things they think they can get away with without actually getting squished.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 11 October, 2012, 03:45:21 pm
Quote from: Kim on 11 October, 2012, 03:26:16 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 11 October, 2012, 03:20:06 pm
No, I feel the same (although it is rapidly being eroded). I think it’s because you come to expect a level of stupid behaviour from drivers safely in their box, but hope for some kind of solidarity/empathy from fellow cyclists, which is often not forthcoming.

Possibly because of not being in London, but I expect quite the opposite.  Motorist muppetry will be limited to a basic level of predictability, if not legality, out of concern for their insurance premiums and/or paintwork - whereas cyclists seem to feel free to do whatever stupid things they think they can get away with without actually getting squished.

To be fair mine/Jane’s hopes for consideration from fellow cyclists are probably fairly unrealistic, especially in summer when you get absolutely loads of cycling numpties hurling themselves around in Londonton. The ‘racers’ are particularly noticeable after an event such as the TDF as they all squeeze themselves through tiny gaps pretending to be Wiggo or Cav or whoever, except their spatial awareness is not all that and they often knock my pannier or arm. The other day at the lights a guy sat so close to me that I nearly used Clarion’s line about not getting that close on a first date, except they’d probably think I was flirting.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 11 October, 2012, 03:58:33 pm
Quote from: Kim on 11 October, 2012, 03:26:16 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 11 October, 2012, 03:20:06 pm
No, I feel the same (although it is rapidly being eroded). I think it’s because you come to expect a level of stupid behaviour from drivers safely in their box, but hope for some kind of solidarity/empathy from fellow cyclists, which is often not forthcoming.

Possibly because of not being in London, but I expect quite the opposite.  Motorist muppetry will be limited to a basic level of predictability, if not legality, out of concern for their insurance premiums and/or paintwork - whereas cyclists seem to feel free to do whatever stupid things they think they can get away with without actually getting squished.
Maybe that is exactly why I don't get as upset by motorists endangering me- I have been riding around London so long, I'm just used to all the stuff they do and in fact, when I think about it, am generally running through worst possible scenarios as I ride along, almost subconsciously, and generating a range of possible avoidance tactics.  For example, I always expect that car waiting to emerge from a minor road to do so, ignoring my priority on the major.  so I ride in primary as much as possible.  When a car does make that manoeuvre in that way, I tend to just shrug my shoulders and carry on.  I rarely lose my temper with motorists for this type of stuff.  When a cyclist did it to me the other day, I shouted at him, angrily, in an "I expected more from you" kind of fashion.  I did say that it wasn't a logical response.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 11 October, 2012, 05:41:05 pm
Rode in today for the first time in a while.

About to test my Howies jacket for waterproofness. It's chucking it down.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 11 October, 2012, 06:52:04 pm
Since it's been 2 degrees on the last couple of (non-cycling) mornings, I got togged up in my winter kit this morning.

That was a mistake!
It was nearly 10 degrees!

Over-heating on the ride in was offset by a good soaking over the Cairn, which was in dense low cloud.   The remainder of the ride in was just plain ordinary drizzle.

I was expecting the forecast biblical rain to hit on the way home, but it hasn't arrived yet, so home dry.

ETA: And with a bulging pocketfull of plumbing bits which I found scattered at the side of the road on the CoM climb.   About a dozen shiny new 15mm yorkshire fittings.  Must have fallen out of a plumber's van.   I grabbed them , and clanked the remainder of the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 12 October, 2012, 09:19:56 am
One of the wettest commutes this year. Not so much due to the rain, which was bad enough, but the standing water and run-off showed it must have been p1ssing down solidly overnight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 12 October, 2012, 09:26:52 am
Quote from: sg37409 on 12 October, 2012, 09:19:56 am
One of the wettest commutes this year. Not so much due to the rain, which was bad enough, but the standing water and run-off showed it must have been p1ssing down solidly overnight.
It certainly pissed down fairly solidly overnight here.
As a result, the link road between the outer ring road and where I work was flooded (again) but that didn't stop bell-ends in lorries and other large vehicles piling through it at 30mph+ - apropos of aforementioned rain, I fully expect the river to start rising again within the next 24hrs or so as everything washes down from the Dales.

I drove in today - given that it was a major effort to do that, there was absolutely no chance of the bike getting a look in. May go out for a spin tonight if my mood has elevated itself by then.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 12 October, 2012, 09:39:29 am
I actually cycled to work for the first time since last friday.

No breathing problems, so looks like that is over.

[edit] It was a really slow slogging ride in, not helped by waiting up until Mrscharly got home from 'shepherding' fresher nurses round the nightclubs of York.  ::-)

I blamed my extreme slowness on being pathetic.

Just looked at weather. Those headwinds?  40-49kph. Just hope they hold for the ride home, should be able to just go for a snooze on the bike and let wind take me home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 12 October, 2012, 03:15:16 pm
There have previously been discussions of swimming to work.

Would Londoners consider using the Lido Line (http://www.gizmodo.co.uk/2012/10/would-you-paddle-to-work-in-the-proposed-london-lido-line/)?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 12 October, 2012, 03:23:12 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 12 October, 2012, 09:39:29 am
I actually cycled to work for the first time since last friday.

No breathing problems, so looks like that is over.

[edit] It was a really slow slogging ride in, not helped by waiting up until Mrscharly got home from 'shepherding' fresher nurses round the nightclubs of York.  ::-)

I blamed my extreme slowness on being pathetic.

Just looked at weather. Those headwinds?  40-49kph. Just hope they hold for the ride home, should be able to just go for a snooze on the bike and let wind take me home.

Sorry, but that made me ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 12 October, 2012, 05:56:21 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 12 October, 2012, 09:39:29 am
I actually cycled to work for the first time since last friday.

No breathing problems, so looks like that is over.

[edit] Just looked at weather. Those headwinds?  40-49kph. Just hope they hold for the ride home, should be able to just go for a snooze on the bike and let wind take me home.

Just make sure that you don't oversleep and have to cycle back into it. Does your bike have an alarm clock?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Speshact on 12 October, 2012, 07:15:02 pm
Quote from: jane on 11 October, 2012, 07:41:01 am
   This behaviour spoiled an otherwise enjoyable commute, which included an amazing firework display somewhere near Jubilee Gardens, about 9pmish, visible from Waterloo Bridge- no idea what it was about but ve
It was a brilliant 10-15 minute full-on firework display from barges in the middle of the river. I was one of only about 20 people watching it from the Albert Embankment (thanks to www.ianvisits.co.uk who had spotted the river closure and firework reason in the Port of London's Authority announcements). According to a worker I spoke to the fireworks were for someone in/for Millbank Tower. They clearly had real money to burn.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 12 October, 2012, 07:40:56 pm
Rode in for the first time this week (stoopid lurgy). Wore my new long sleeve base layer, it fits my body fine but the neck is a bit tight, hopefully it's stretch a bit. Didn't really need the baselayer this morning, once I got going I was a bit too warm

However the baselayer was appreciated for the ride home as I took the long way home and once the sun went down the temperature dropped considerably. I was just right pootling round the lanes in the dark  :thumbsup: Had to circle the block when I got home though as I was at 19.6 miles, just had to round that up to 20.

Lucke dout with the weather too, I was expecting to get soaked on the way home and I had clear blue skies instead.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 12 October, 2012, 08:38:04 pm
Dressing gown clad (really) SUV driver.  Why are you winging at me?  I'm not the one who indicated LEFT and then decided to park two wheels up on the pavement on the RIGHT.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 12 October, 2012, 11:09:10 pm
rode home for the first time since my tour of the western isles. (Tuesday evenings 11 miles and bail to the train doesn't count)

A bit of following my nose with a general idea of the road network resulted in 21 miles rather than the normal 17. However the roads through to Paley Street were wonderful rural back roads, such a pity that the route home from there is the Drift Road which in the rush hour is a rat run.

Then threw the fixies chain on the decent out of Ascot towards Sunninghil @ >25mph. Fortunately it went outboard though I got my hand filthy sorting out the twisted chain.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mad Jack on 13 October, 2012, 05:19:02 pm
Friday- Rode through the park and avoided the cut through on the grass as there were five Labrador dogs off the lead, one sees me and heads in my direction and stops on my left to pee against a tree, then all of a sudden darts in front of me. I grab the front brake and slam into it's side and manage to pull up before going over the top. look Left and shout to the woman, stupid Bdy dog nearly had me off! She shouts it's not mine! A voice to my right says, sorry it's mine, keep it on a lead I shout and roll off to work with a sore right leg, I must have bashed the top tube!

Thursday, riding home the long way on a local cycle path, see a Alsatian craping in the grass verge with the owner trying to make a distraction as so I don't notice, as I get closer he starts waving his arms and reversing back at me and at the last second I have to throw the bike over to avoid him, I shout are you some sort of Idiot! He shouts Slow down, I didn’t think 30kph was too excessive and next time I'll dive between him and his dog.  :demon: Friday- same dog being taken for a walk by it's mistress, she too let's it crap all over the verge and kept walking as not to have noticed!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 13 October, 2012, 05:24:35 pm
Quote from: Mad Jack on 13 October, 2012, 05:19:02 pm

Thursday, riding home the long way on a local cycle path, see a Alsatian craping in the grass verge with the owner trying to make a distraction as so I don't notice, as I get closer he starts waving his arms and reversing back at me and at the last second I have to throw the bike over to avoid him, I shout are you some sort of Idiot! He shouts Slow down, I didn’t think 30kph was too excessive and next time I'll dive between him and his dog.  :demon: Friday- same dog being taken for a walk by it's mistress, she too let it,s it  crap all over the verge and kept walking as not to have noticed!

Shared use path?  I'd say 30kmh-1 is too fast then.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mad Jack on 13 October, 2012, 05:38:44 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 13 October, 2012, 05:24:35 pm
Shared use path?  I'd say 30kmh-1 is too fast then.

Yes and possibly, massive impending deluge with dark horizon, plus work a day week commitments to blow away. No excuses really, but either are dogs fowling and being off the lead in public places..
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 14 October, 2012, 12:32:24 pm
Quote from: Mad Jack on 13 October, 2012, 05:38:44 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 13 October, 2012, 05:24:35 pm
Shared use path?  I'd say 30kmh-1 is too fast then.

Yes and possibly, massive impending deluge with dark horizon, plus work a day week commitments to blow away. No excuses really, but either are dogs fowling and being off the lead in public places..

Sorry, but I think the clue is in 'shared use'. It may be inconsiderate to let a dog wander around on such a path, but it's also inconsiderate to hammer down the same path on a bike. Dogs, children, drunks, tend to move through a process akin to Brownian motion, and half the time they don't know where they are going to be standing next. Slow down and be prepared to give way. Yes, it can be annoying, but chill and do it with a smile, and then there might be one non-cyclist in the country briefly of the impression that we're not all shouty, arrogant shits.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CJBrewer on 15 October, 2012, 12:51:17 pm
Quote
Slow down and be prepared to give way. Yes, it can be annoying, but chill and do it with a smile, and then there might be one non-cyclist in the country briefly of the impression that we're not all shouty, arrogant shits.

I commuted four years on a shared use track, with many dog walkers. You're right about speed -- I slow down whenever I see someone carrying a lead (as usually the dog's been let off).  Children are usually idiots of course, but they tend not to hide in bushes then come bombing out sideways at 20kph, right at your back wheel.

Some dogs are just arseholes, and most are idiots.  People with arsehole/idiot dogs (and children) really ought to keep them under control, for everyone's safety.

Don't get me started on children running around in supermarkets... one of these days someone (me) is going to get in trouble thanks to some kid hurtling headfirst into his trolley.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 15 October, 2012, 01:02:27 pm
Chilly, but not as chilly as I thought, so I was overheating ploughing up the Uxbridge Road.

My commutes are great at the moment - I have a massive job on in Stoke Poges - so I am getting a 40-50 mile round trip a couple of times a week.  Bit of countryside etc.  Lovely.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 15 October, 2012, 07:18:10 pm
Got scalped by a Brompton! Not scalped exactly, but he stayed ahead of me effortlessly so it would have been bad manners to puff and pant to overtake. To save face I asked him what his rear light was, it was a Knog with an irregular flashing action, veh nice.   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 October, 2012, 07:19:26 pm
I had a commute today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil W on 15 October, 2012, 09:14:49 pm
Saw 6 deer running alongside me. Nice....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 17 October, 2012, 08:17:56 am
Another PW.

On the plus side, the Lake-o-Pigs wasn't above pedal height, which was nice.

I've left all my kit gently dripping in the ladies'. With any luck one of the 3 other women in the complex is light fingered and I wont have to ride home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 17 October, 2012, 08:44:47 am
Quote from: clarion on 15 October, 2012, 07:19:26 pm
I had a commute today.

This is good, no?

 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 17 October, 2012, 08:54:27 am
Hard commute yesterday with the wind - I am doing a 50 mile commute a couple of times a week currently and yesterday was the second day in a row. 

The wind heading out to Beaconsfield was very tough going - fixed with two panniers with laptop etc.

Journey back was fairly tail-windy (though not as much as I would have hoped) and fast.

(too much information alert)

My fixed has a Charge Spoon saddle - it's the only bike without a Brooks due to being left in London alot and not wanting the saddle to get nicked.

I have been riding the fixed much further recently - as I said, a couple of trips to the office a week (50 miles) and I rode the FNRttS on it last Friday.  For the first time in my life, I believe I have a saddle sore.

I have a lovely new Brooks Swift in a box - I may well buy a spare seatpin and swap the saddle and seatpin for these longer trips (and put the Spoon on for London trips).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 October, 2012, 08:56:44 am
Have half the population of London (cyclists, motorists and pedestrians alike) gone completely insane?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 17 October, 2012, 09:17:08 am
Quote from: clarion on 17 October, 2012, 08:56:44 am
Have half the population of London (cyclists, motorists and pedestrians alike) gone completely insane?

Just wait until a week next Monday when everyone has lost an hour and it'll be mayhem!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 17 October, 2012, 09:42:11 am
Quote from: clarion on 17 October, 2012, 08:56:44 am
Have half the population of London (cyclists, motorists and pedestrians alike) gone completely insane?
Yes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 17 October, 2012, 10:27:29 am
Which half ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: John Henry on 17 October, 2012, 10:33:31 am
Quote from: hatler on 17 October, 2012, 10:27:29 am
Which half ?

The half that weren't already insane.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 17 October, 2012, 10:47:48 am
Quote from: Butterfly on 17 October, 2012, 09:42:11 am
Quote from: clarion on 17 October, 2012, 08:56:44 am
Have half the population of London (cyclists, motorists and pedestrians alike) gone completely insane?
Yes.

So,
is it Butterfly or Clarion?  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 17 October, 2012, 01:08:51 pm
Quote from: marcusjb on 17 October, 2012, 08:54:27 am

I have a lovely new Brooks Swift in a box - I may well buy a spare seatpin and swap the saddle and seatpin for these longer trips (and put the Spoon on for London trips).

Just take the seat post with you when you lock up the bike?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 October, 2012, 01:22:36 pm
Quote from: John Henry on 17 October, 2012, 10:33:31 am
Quote from: hatler on 17 October, 2012, 10:27:29 am
Which half ?

The half that weren't already insane.

A morning at work convinces me of this.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 17 October, 2012, 01:37:45 pm
I followed a line of Diesel for about 1.5 miles this morning. Bloody annoying, particularly when I had to be very careful making a right turn where the offending vehicle had also made a right turn, while I got overtaken mid-turn by an impatient driver (which is dangerous as they have to get back over to the left sharpish as the queue at the lights in the road being turned into gets in the way). If I wasn't having to ride slower than normal due to the Diesel we might have collided.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 17 October, 2012, 01:50:26 pm
Oh cynical taxi driver I wasn't joking when I told you that the back of your car was smoking. There was no need to swear at me and drive off.

If your rear brake really was binding as badly as it seemed to be then eventually you are going to see the error of your ways!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 17 October, 2012, 02:21:06 pm
I get this.  Whenever I try to be helpful and mention failed tail lights or brake lights I either get the 1000 yard stare or abuse.  I just don’t bother any more.

(Although I do still helpfully mention to people that if their indicators are not working, they should get them fixed)  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 17 October, 2012, 02:23:52 pm
Quote from: Basil on 17 October, 2012, 02:21:06 pm
I get this.  Whenever I try to be helpful and mention failed tail lights or brake lights I either get the 1000 yard stare or abuse.  I just don’t bother any more.

Same here, sadly.  I'll occasionally give a shout if someone's forgotten to switch their lights on, though.

I strongly suspect that the only drivers who care about whether their lights work are all cycling instead.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 17 October, 2012, 02:30:00 pm
Quote from: Kim on 17 October, 2012, 02:23:52 pm
Quote from: Basil on 17 October, 2012, 02:21:06 pm
I get this.  Whenever I try to be helpful and mention failed tail lights or brake lights I either get the 1000 yard stare or abuse.  I just don’t bother any more.

Same here, sadly.  I'll occasionally give a shout if someone's forgotten to switch their lights on, though.

I strongly suspect that the only drivers who care about whether their lights work are all cycling instead.

The last few evenings I've been trying to play a game: count the number of cars with properly positioned/functioning headlights.  I've never managed as I keep being blinded by cars whose headlights are pointing all over the place.  :facepalm:  Are these things not checked during MOTs?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 17 October, 2012, 02:38:15 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 17 October, 2012, 02:30:00 pm
Are these things not checked during MOTs?

They certainly should be.

It's entirely possible to bugger up the alignment while changing the lamp, but you'd think the sort of person with an inclination to actually do that would make a token effort to get the alignment at least vaguely right.   ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 17 October, 2012, 02:46:26 pm
Often they're not even close.  IMNSHO one should have to go to a 'professional' to change a lamp as the average driver can't seem to get it right.

We shan't mention people using high beams in town or cyclists with bright lights pointing level or up.  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 17 October, 2012, 02:50:23 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 17 October, 2012, 02:46:26 pm
Often they're not even close.  IMNSHO one should have to go to a 'professional' to change a lamp as the average driver can't seem to get it right.

Enforcement's a job for the police, not Halfords...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: urban_biker on 17 October, 2012, 04:18:05 pm
Quote from: Kim on 17 October, 2012, 02:50:23 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 17 October, 2012, 02:46:26 pm
Often they're not even close.  IMNSHO one should have to go to a 'professional' to change a lamp as the average driver can't seem to get it right.

Enforcement's a job for the police, not Halfords...

Indeed. Just because someone is paid to do something doesn't make them good at it. I suspect the staff of Halfords may fall into this category.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 17 October, 2012, 06:19:04 pm
Yesterday morning I stopped at the side of the road in Lambeth to offer an Allen key to a fixie rider who was trying to tighten up his front cog with his fingers. Never seen him before.

This morning (walking to the station as I left the bike at work last night) I saw the same guy just around the corner from my own home, in Blackheath.  Sadly I reacted too slowly to say Hi.

Quite a coincidence, in my view.

Anyway, if you're on here, Hi.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 October, 2012, 11:54:11 am
It's October.  The roads of South London are still crowded with cyclists.  Yay!  But it's wet.  It's that time of year.  You don't have the excuse of being caught in an unexpected summer rainstorm.  It's autumn.  It's meant to rain now.  So please, people, get some mudguards!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 18 October, 2012, 12:34:20 pm
eeeeek.

Had to drop the car in Streatham this morning for a service and cycled back along CS7.

I feel really really really uneasy going down the left side of queued traffic.  It's something I almost never do, so engaging in this particularly deviant activity for hundreds of yeards on end (traffic too closely squished together by the blue lanes to make progress down the outside a realistic option) just seems dangerous and wrong.

Really really uneasy.

Really.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 18 October, 2012, 12:45:49 pm
You probably haven't heard me moan about not commuting by bike because the back wheel of the Dawes Galaxy I was using is about to collapse and every time I try to get a part a get a not available response from the local bike shop a few days later.  Not their fault, I blame Madison. 

Anyway after several days taking a lift from a work colleague I decide I had enough. The roads are little cleaner than they have been recently.  So I decided to use Red bike which has been repaired so the first time in around two years my audax bike rolled out the shed. Partly worn 23mm tyres are bound to be OK.  I left home at the normal time and arrived at  work 20 minutes early.  Once again proving red bikes are faster.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 October, 2012, 10:03:25 pm
Quote from: clarion on 18 October, 2012, 11:54:11 am
It's October.  The roads of South London are still crowded with cyclists.  Yay!  But it's wet.  It's that time of year.  You don't have the excuse of being caught in an unexpected summer rainstorm.  It's autumn.  It's meant to rain now.  So please, people, get some mudguards!

Same goes for lights, you lemmings! >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 19 October, 2012, 06:45:06 am
Quote from: Basil on 17 October, 2012, 02:21:06 pm
I get this.  Whenever I try to be helpful and mention failed tail lights or brake lights I either get the 1000 yard stare or abuse.  I just don’t bother any more.

(Although I do still helpfully mention to people that if their indicators are not working, they should get them fixed)  :demon:

IMO, commuter cyclists are among the most unfriendly people I encounter during my working day.  There have been a few exceptions, but mostly my attempts at friendly acknowledgment at traffic lights are ignored, people regularly barge  past me to cross lights on red,  others overtake me, obviously at their absolute speed limit and then sit right in front of my wheel, and when I pass them once its safe a few of these have accused me of wheel sucking.  More than a handful over the last four or five years have shouted abuse at me, some of it quite foul and misogynistic, when I have pointed out that their riding had been less than exemplary and I only ever do this if I feel it compromises my safety.  Of course, these experiences are spread out over time, and I have met pleasant individuals on bikes out there too.  But, it does feel like they are in the minority.

Quote from: clarion on 18 October, 2012, 10:03:25 pm
Quote from: clarion on 18 October, 2012, 11:54:11 am
It's October.  The roads of South London are still crowded with cyclists.  Yay!  But it's wet.  It's that time of year.  You don't have the excuse of being caught in an unexpected summer rainstorm.  It's autumn.  It's meant to rain now.  So please, people, get some mudguards!

Same goes for lights, you lemmings! >:(
I have no mudguards on the commute bike.  A case of removed due to breakage and not got round to replacing.  However, as AFAICS, mudguards only really protect the owner from spray, unless they are the
full ones with mudflaps that almost reach the road.  Anything less still sends a fine spray up into the face of anyone following. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 19 October, 2012, 08:24:22 am
In the heavy rain the other night, waiting at the lights with another cyclist. Third cyclist – sans mudguards – comes around the outside of the cars behind, slices through the very wet ASL and straight through the red light, giving us both a face-full for dirty road juice. The other cyclist looks at me and says, in a voice so posh it made the Queen sound she attended my comprehensive school, "what an utter cunt." Which, I think, summed it up. Caps doffed to super-posh Clapham lady cyclists. Those ladies tell it like it is. No messin'

Sadly, I have to share a dim view of my fellow cyclists. I know, I know, it's a minority, and as such it's the minority you remember from a commute. A typical example of arrogance and cluelessness from yesterday – I'm waiting behind a left-turning bin lorry at the junction of Bermondsey and Tooley Streets, enjoying the bouquet. Chap comes up behind, pushing through the small gap between me and lorry, knocking my wheel in his eagerness to squeeze between tonnes of about-to-pull-out and fragrant lorry and the pavement barriers. I say "excuse me" and the cheery response: "you're in my way." I may have uncharitably wished a bin lorry upon him.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 19 October, 2012, 08:30:45 am
My fellow cycle commuters are almost universally friendly. I think it is that Londonton - I higher proportion of gits of all types.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 October, 2012, 08:51:31 am
That's true enough
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 19 October, 2012, 09:04:42 am
I concur with the view that it must be the London effect that makes some cyclists cocks. I get a reasonable response from everyone I greet on my commutes- most of the time. Sometimes I get no response at all but, that tends to coincide with me hooning down a hill they are breathing out of their arses to ascend.

Having said that the London Effect exists, a good proportion of residents of this here parish ar resident in 'The Smoke'. Does that mean some of them must be cocks too?  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 19 October, 2012, 09:53:54 am
Well, I set off from my bike locker just after 8am and the sky was really interesting - a sort of latticework effect in the clouds.  Groovy.  I tried to find the shortcut through the sink estate, which Googlemaps assures me is there, but which I still can't find.  By the time I was riding past Croft Avenue Chippie, the mist was descending; and by the time I hit That Roundabout it was proper fog.  And I didn't have lights on the bike  :facepalm:

I was a bit more cautious than usual and, thankfully, I lived through the roundabout and went through the Stables where going over (and through) The Beck meant the fog was incredibly thick.  I could barely see the horses in the field next to me. 

Thank goodness for Hi Viz, I say.  It works better in fog than it does in the dark.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 19 October, 2012, 10:50:55 am
Two other things that have annoyed me lately re London cyclists.

(1) The Traffic Light Fly-By. You're there patiently waiting at red watching other cyclists sale on through. It's not that though, it's when the lights change and you set off, only for whoooooooosh as a cyclist passes you at speed with millimetres to spare. Braking is apparently a courtesy too far. This is common at any light with a downhill run up (either end of Blackfriars Bridge, for example).

(2) Gruntlers. That particular and peculiar breed of cyclist that has to overtake. They'll gruntle past, arse in the air, honking it like they're climbing Ventoux. The thing is, once past, they pull in and slow down to a pace less than you are currently doing. Which means you either have to slow down or overtake them.

Purely anecdotal, but the prize commuting cocks seem to be (a) late twenty-ish men, (b) in slightly dirty commuting gear (because they're hardcore commuters, kings o' the road etc.), and (c) on mid-to-high end bikes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 October, 2012, 10:53:03 am
Them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 19 October, 2012, 10:55:28 am
On the commute today, my leg did not explode and my hip did not clunk.

This is a Good Thing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 October, 2012, 10:57:21 am
That's progress.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 19 October, 2012, 10:58:19 am
Strange. I almost unfailingly get a positive response when I point out that peoples brake lights aren't working.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 19 October, 2012, 12:18:22 pm
I hate commuter racing.

Guess what I did monday?

About 10km from home, I hear 'ding ding ding' behind me. I'm rolling at a reasonable 28kph along cyclepath, but guy behind me wants to overtake. pull over, let him come past. He gets a little ahead, then slows down  :facepalm:.  Normally I'd just slow down too, 'cause I hate commuter racing. But my legs feel great, I have loads of energy, the next few miles are fast, so I cranked it up a bit. He looked back, saw me catching up, sped up, etc. After a few hundred yards we are both doing about 34kph and I'm enjoying myself. No desire to pass this bloke, but it's nice to have a good thrash now and then.

Then I hear grunting and thrashing of gears behind me. Someone trying to come up and pass. This kind of spoiled my fun, so I sped up. Now rolling at 36kph and neither of them are going to let up - they speed up too.

Bear in mind I've already done 34kph by this point, 20km of it at 30-32kph. They've ridden 8 at most, from Tadcaster.

So I didn't let up. 35-36kph for the next 3 miles. About 3km from home I decided I should wind it down and cool down, so slow down to 28kph. The guy behind overtakes and I call out a cheery "Evening". He stares ahead, stoney faced. What the heck did I do to him?  Slowed him down too much?

He caught up with the other bloke, who is now 200m ahead. Then they both slowed down. FFS. Could have done that earlier and had a sociable chat. Nope, obviously they needed to pee higher up the tree.

Nah, I don't like commuter racing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 19 October, 2012, 04:00:41 pm
Ian, it sounds like you're having to deal with rank amateurs. Any accomplished gruntler or competent fly-byer would ensure that they included a front wheel chop in their manoeuvre.
It amazes me how little ability many people have in allowing themselves and others to flow through traffic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 19 October, 2012, 05:23:40 pm
After my morning moan, had a very friendly chat in the rain at the lights today.  3 of us, happily waiting at red, comparing the waterproofness or not of our rainjackets.  And another cyclist apologised as he sailed out of a side road almost into me.  He sheepishly followed up on the apology at the lights a few yards ahead, where he had pulled up on the pavement.   He had a flat earlier on the ride and had forgotten to re attach his brake cable.  Didn't realise until he began to brake at the junction and realised nothing much was happening, especially in the wet. (Been there, done that, so no hard feelings).  He had dislodged a brake pad too, so I lent him my multitool.  He was on fixed and only carried one of those Pedro fixie tools.  We had a nice chat too.  Arrived home, wet, tired but with faith happily restored in London cyclists.
   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 19 October, 2012, 10:00:36 pm
Horrible ride home tonight. Yes, it was pi--ing down but that wasn't the problem; it was the aggressive and inept driving. Lots of close passes, impatient overtaking, speeding and ignoring of road markings, apart from....

... a guy in a huge Wankpanzer with music belting out, who was on a small roundabout, with right of way, but stopped and waved me through  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 19 October, 2012, 10:19:04 pm
Horrible ride home tonight Misty rain all over my glasses making it difficult to see and terrible driving Nose to tail traffic as well
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 19 October, 2012, 11:00:47 pm
A few shitty drivers also as mentioned upthread. A lady undecided as to whether she should over take me near at a traffic island while happily chatting away on the phone (had a word, was told its ok because 'everyone does it').  And in Leytonstone (again) peds waiting at crossing, light turns red, red car sails past 5 seconds after the red was established.... only to stop 100m ahead at the back of the queue for the next red.

High tide on the Thames and its creeks, riding pas three mills the sea was level with the white door on this picture. http://www.3mills.com/assets/images/welcome/Updated%20Resized%20Images/3-Mills-Studios-13-MAIN.jpg
which is about a meter above the level of the river Lee on the other side of the levee, and 10 to 20cm above the level of the path (protected by a wall thankfully) at one point.
Wide expanse of the river shrouded in Drizzle, man-made sounds muted, and the towers of the city hidden from view.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 20 October, 2012, 07:43:55 am
+1 to the craziness of the driving yesterday.  Although the rain seemed to bring out the best in some of the cyclists I encountered,  it was hard to understand why, given the exceedingly wet, dangerous conditions,  far from reducing their speed, drivers seemed to be going much faster and executing many more dangerous manoeuvres than usual.
As I approached the Old Kent Rd, Ilderton Rd  junction, a woman sped past me dangerously close and fast,. I believe in n attempt to jump the lights, or so I thought at first.  I normally just adopt the c'est la vie approach to such occurrences but,  but as I pulled up alongside her window, I realised she probably hadn't seen the light, or me, in time to make a normal safe  approach as she was busily engaged in unwrapping and eating some kind of chicken shop type pie thing.  Her window was open, surprisingly given the rain, but probably because of the foul smell this disgusting comestible exuded, discernible even by my nose out in the open air. I am afraid I had a bit of a hissy fit and started going on about how I thought my life was worth a bit more than some cheap pasty filled with chicken innards.  I forget the exact words.  The woman looked slightly alarmed, and as the lights changed threw the pie to the floor of the car and sped off, seemingly relieved to escape the mad pie hating female on a bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 20 October, 2012, 08:04:37 am
Quote from: jane on 20 October, 2012, 07:43:55 am
the mad pie hating female on a bike.

 :D :D :D

I swore out loud several times on yesterday's commute.  Narrow twisty lane, plenty of blind corners, rubbish grumbly surfaces and plenty of bonus potholes.  Obviously the ideal sort of road for close passes at high speed. Especially in fog.  Startlingly large number of cars, and a couple of HGVs, with no headlights on too.  I may have pointlessly but somehow enjoyably  shouted "get some fucking lights" at the one who came a bit too close to a head on collision with a vehicle overtaking me who clearly hadn't seen the oncoming unlit truck looming out of the fog.

Said hello to a cyclist going the other way tho, and to the one that I scalped (!).  And enjoyed the water droplets forming on my eyelashes.  And my sore thigh didn't explode, although the dodgy hip grumbled a bit by the time I got home.  All good.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 20 October, 2012, 09:07:30 am
Seen yesterday: covered in hi-viz, reflectors and blinky lights, plus one of those red lollipop things attached to the handlebars  ??? also with blinkies on it. She looked especially bizarre as she had an enormous pair of purple wrap-around goggles that wouldn't have looked out of place on a snorkler. She then started dinging her bell at a large group of peds - as she sailed through a red light where they had a green man! Clearly very worried about her own safety but not that of anyone else.

Oh and top marks to the man on the cycle path who I was just behind, waiting for space to pass, when he suddenly moved to the right to allow an oncoming cyclist to pass him on his left. Yikes. Cue mutual  ::-)  ::-) from me and the oncoming cyclist.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 20 October, 2012, 09:09:07 am
That made me laugh, Jane!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 21 October, 2012, 02:23:26 am
Wet, cold, foggy and 'orrible tonight. Should've put overshoes on. Oh...and zipped up the pit-vents...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 21 October, 2012, 08:20:45 am
Rode with Shaun McKeown, paralympic cyclist for a bit yesterday. A very classy cyclist, and incredible muscle definition!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 21 October, 2012, 08:55:26 am
Quote from: Wendy on 21 October, 2012, 08:20:45 am
Rode with Shaun McKeown, paralympic cyclist for a bit yesterday. A very classy cyclist, and incredible muscle definition!!!

mus·cle/ˈməsəl/
noun
1a band or bundle of fibrous tissue in a human or animal body that has the ability to contract, producing movement in or maintaining the position of parts of the body:
the calf muscle

[mass noun]:
the sheet of muscle between the abdomen and chest
a muscle or muscles when well developed or prominently visible under the skin:
his muscles rippled beneath his tanned skin

2 [mass noun] physical power; strength:
he had muscle but no brains

informal a man or men exhibiting physical power or strength, typically employed to use or threaten violence:
an ex-marine of enormous proportions who’d been brought along as muscle

power or influence, especially in a commercial or political sphere:
many companies lack the financial muscle to adopt a more hard-nosed relationship with buyers

verb
informal

1 [with object and adverbial] chiefly North American move (an object) in a particular direction by using one’s physical strength:
they were muscling baggage into the hold of the plane

coerce by violence or by economic or political pressure:
he was eventually muscled out of the market
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 22 October, 2012, 12:08:24 am
Bastard bastard day!
Precipitating it down like cats and dogs, and I shot out of the exit doing best part of thirty mph.
Click. Clang. Chain snapped.

I used my speed to cut across two lanes of traffic to my exit, and then coasted to a stop, just in case the loose links locked the wheel. In on George tonight; I will have a fettle once nights are finished.

Got in, went to bed. Doorbell rang half an hour later. Ignored it. Letter pushed through: TH licence knobs calling. 0900 hrs on a Sunday morning.

One of those days.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 22 October, 2012, 09:03:09 am
Quote from: Steph on 22 October, 2012, 12:08:24 am
Bastard bastard day!
Precipitating it down like cats and dogs, and I shot out of the exit doing best part of thirty mph.
Click. Clang. Chain snapped.

I used my speed to cut across two lanes of traffic to my exit, and then coasted to a stop, just in case the loose links locked the wheel. In on George tonight; I will have a fettle once nights are finished.

Got in, went to bed. Doorbell rang half an hour later. Ignored it. Letter pushed through: TH licence knobs calling. 0900 hrs on a Sunday morning.

One of those days.

Sounds totally foul! Hope today is better :-*.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 October, 2012, 09:26:26 am
Fog.  Stacks of metal boxes.  Too many close passes.  Fewer numpty cyclists than usual.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 22 October, 2012, 05:37:46 pm
Stopped at red, in the ASL, when I am joined by a hairdryer rider, doing a passable impression of a wasp in a cocoa tin.

Him "do you stop at every red light you come to?"

Me "yes, it's the law"

Him "you must waste a lot of energy"

Me "but it's the law"

Him " I never used to stop at reds when I had a pushbike, no number plates".

Goes to show that an idiot is an idiot whatever their chosen mode of transport.  I just hope he doesn't graduate to a wankpanzer or other slaying machine.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 22 October, 2012, 06:53:34 pm
Quote from: Gandalf on 22 October, 2012, 05:37:46 pm
Stopped at red, in the ASL, when I am joined by a hairdryer rider, doing a passable impression of a wasp in a cocoa tin.


Vespa. Italian for wasp innit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mr magnolia on 23 October, 2012, 08:34:09 am
I wore my black socks with my black shorts.

hmm, toasty.



and less smelly feet on arrival.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 23 October, 2012, 08:58:50 am
Gloomy/darkish, drizzle, foggy.  But blimey, no traffic.
Half term, I assume?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 October, 2012, 09:20:08 am
They've all gone to Londonton :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 23 October, 2012, 10:41:43 am
Quote from: Basil on 23 October, 2012, 08:58:50 am
Gloomy/darkish, drizzle, foggy.  But blimey, no traffic.
Half term, I assume?
Not till next week, here.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 23 October, 2012, 11:05:18 am
Saw an amusing non-verbal exchange this morning.
On my right, beautifully dressed female cyclist in peach miniskirt, elegantly tailored jacket, nice hat and braid hanging down the back of her neck (very elegant).
On my left, equally attractive young woman dressed in overtrousers, fluorescent boil in the bag jacket and crash helmet.

The look she gave the other young lady was absolutely priceless.

The funny thing was, and I doubt either of them noticed, was that they were both riding black Pashley Princesses.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 24 October, 2012, 07:31:12 am
I fell off... And it hurt...
It still hurts...

I'll live, and the bike has a new battle scar on the handlebars.

But it bloody hurts, and I am going to have to drive in today :( :( :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 24 October, 2012, 07:37:24 am
Quote from: Wonky on 24 October, 2012, 07:31:12 am
I fell off... And it hurt...
And it still hurts...

I'll live, and the bike has a new battle scar on the handlebars.

But it bloody hurts, and I am going to have to drive in today :( :( :(

Oh bad luck. :(

What caused that, then?  It can't be ice yet, surely?
Slushy leaves?
Wet iron work?
Clipless moment?
Or one I'm guilty of occasionally; neglected to wake up before setting out in the morning?  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 24 October, 2012, 09:02:35 am
Slushy leaves are lethal.  Thankfully on the Central London part of my commute, they are cleared every day from both road and pavement (close to Buckingham Palace, so huge pedestrian footfall as well as the joys of the Victoria gyratory).

At the home end though, they just lie there and rot and go all squishy and slippery and sit in the gutter or in the middle of the very short section of pavement lane I use right before home.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mr magnolia on 24 October, 2012, 09:24:41 am
Very non amusing highly verbal encounter with a representative of hell on earth. On a bike.
Swooped up to lights and filtered into the traffic as it moved off, ending up behind a bloke on a bike.
Relative speeds saw me trying to pass him on the right, and then on the left as he drifted over.
'####$%&$#@#$ gonna shove this so far up you that you'll #@$%#@.....etc.

Not a great start to last nights ride home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 24 October, 2012, 09:31:03 am
I rode through Brixton and up CS7 this morning.  What a bunch of dickheads on bikes there were this morning!  Some with no anticipation or spatial awareness whatsoever (drivers on a ban?).  It was really very difficult getting along.  Every red light I stopped at, about eight or nine slower, more wobbly, or otherwise dangerous riders moved forward of the line before stopping.  Not nice at all.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 24 October, 2012, 09:31:49 am
Quote from: Wonky on 24 October, 2012, 07:31:12 am
I fell off... And it hurt...
It still hurts...

I'll live, and the bike has a new battle scar on the handlebars.

But it bloody hurts, and I am going to have to drive in today :( :( :(

What hurts, Wonky?  Have you had it checked out, mate?  Take care of yourself and GWS.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 24 October, 2012, 12:42:09 pm
Quote from: clarion on 24 October, 2012, 09:31:03 am
I rode through Brixton and up CS7 this morning.  What a bunch of dickheads on bikes there were this morning!  Some with no anticipation or spatial awareness whatsoever (drivers on a ban?).  It was really very difficult getting along.  Every red light I stopped at, about eight or nine slower, more wobbly, or otherwise dangerous riders moved forward of the line before stopping.  Not nice at all.
New term has started.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 24 October, 2012, 02:33:00 pm
Twice waved on at mini-roundabouts by drivers of cars who had priority.  Puzzling.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 24 October, 2012, 07:15:44 pm
I had reason to go to Krapy Rub Snif today from Redhill, so rather than train then tube I went to London Bridge with my Magenta Mercian and blasted in a northwards direction in the autumn sunshine. A nice ride.

While waiting at Krapy Rub Snif for the bloke I was meeting, a Bright Young Thing, all blonde hair and smiles, approached me to ask a favour. She and her colleagues were filming a piece about bikes and taxis and needed a prop, namely a bike for the interviewee to lean on.  Not a problem. I don't know whether it was for News at Ten, a college project or community TV, but my bike is now famous.

Brightened my day up no end.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 24 October, 2012, 09:08:56 pm
They only wanted it cause it's pink.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 24 October, 2012, 09:57:17 pm
Quote from: Basil on 24 October, 2012, 07:37:24 am
Quote from: Wonky on 24 October, 2012, 07:31:12 am
I fell off... And it hurt...
And it still hurts...

I'll live, and the bike has a new battle scar on the handlebars.

But it bloody hurts, and I am going to have to drive in today :( :( :(

Oh bad luck. :(

What caused that, then?  It can't be ice yet, surely?
Slushy leaves?
Wet iron work?
Clipless moment?
Or one I'm guilty of occasionally; neglected to wake up before setting out in the morning?  :-[

Not 100% sure, but I think I missed the pedal clipping in (or failing to clip in), whilst pulling out of my road onto the main road. I think that I turned the handlebars sharply as I missed the pedal, and went down like a sack of spuds, landing my right thigh on the handlebars as I hit the ground.
Still limping now, and stairs are difficult, but I can tell that its just muscular bruising and will heal fairly soon.

Hey ho. Thats the way the cookie crumbles.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 24 October, 2012, 10:00:49 pm
Allthough I did have a bit of an Eric Idle moment where the cars had stopped and the drivers were enquiring about my well-being, whilst I was dragging my obviously damaged carcass and bike off the road claiming that I'd be fine.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 25 October, 2012, 12:43:02 am
Oh that's not good Wonky, GWS  :-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 25 October, 2012, 06:11:50 am
That's not pleasant.  heal up fast.

Riding through the backstreets of Bermondsey yesterday evening,  I gradually came up behind a young woman riding along at a pace a bit slower than me.  I didn't overtake as we were approaching a left turn onto Grange Rd.  Then her phone rang and she swung her shoulder bag round, wrestled her phone out of the bag with one hand and took the call, gradually decelerating throughout this rather difficult procedure.  The passing traffic made it even more impossible to overtake her, once we turned onto Grange Rd, so I was forced to crawl along behind her to the lights at the junction of Tower Bridge Rd. These changed to green as we got there, in the left hand lane, me in primary, ready to head straight ahead, (2 lanes here), herself in primary.  She, still on the phone, suddenly thrusts her right hand out, without a single backward glance, still chatting on the phone, and proceeds to sail across the lane of now moving traffic (including me) to make a right turn up Tower Bridge Rd.  I could not help but call out, disbelievingly, "Are you sure?"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 25 October, 2012, 09:49:51 am
(a)  Articulated lorry on the Old Kent Road, having dutifully waited at a box junction, proceeds to pull away without noticing a mother and child crossing immediately in front of the cab.  Daft way to cross, of course, but quite scary to realise that the driver clearly hadn't a clue they were there - I am pretty sure that he would have seen them start to cross but didn't (or couldn't?) check that they'd got out of the way before pulling away.  The bumper pushed against the woman, who gave a yelp and jumped clear with her sprog.  I suspect the driver heard nothing.

(b)  At the end of my commute, I was locking my bike in the designated area and, for the second time in my 14 years of parking my bike there, impaled my head on a curved spike on the decorative railings that overhang the bike parking area and form part of our imposing historic entrance.  I have a painful puncture wound above my left eye.  An email is working its way through the system urging an act of heritage vandalism or, if they don't have the nerve to do that, the application of blobs of Sugru (https://www.sugru.com/about).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 October, 2012, 09:51:49 am
Do a Risk Assessment :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 October, 2012, 09:53:20 am
We stopped for a red light on Streatham Hill, only to see a bus steam past through the junction and on to the next red light.  Eek.

On the other hand, the proportion of dicks on bikes was lower than it has been.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 25 October, 2012, 09:53:56 am
That risks them deciding that the current location of the cycle storage is inappropriate but then that instead of finding a better location removing the provission entirely.   :facepalm: :hand:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 October, 2012, 09:55:37 am
Ah.  Then you need to do the Risk assessment of modal change from cycling to other forms of commuting, including diabetes, heart disease, COPD etc...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 25 October, 2012, 09:55:48 am
I've done an informal one.  There's clearly a risk of this happening, as it's happened twice to me.  It hurt first time.  Second time it hurts more, and there is blood.  Next time I could lose an eye.  The risk could be mitigated by removing the source of the danger.

I was not wearing a helmet...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RJ on 25 October, 2012, 10:00:39 am
Like this (http://www.google.co.uk/search?num=10&hl=en&safe=active&site=imghp&tbm=isch&source=hp&biw=1024&bih=432&q=jousting+helmet&oq=jousting+helmet&gs_l=img.12...0.0.0.7047.0.0.0.0.0.0.0.0..0.0...0.0...1ac.6BD-rAIP0hA)?
 ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 25 October, 2012, 10:03:15 am
Yes, that would be in keeping with the building (and its occupants?) but I'd rather go for something like this:
(http://www.7hundred.co.uk/images/kask_bambino_tt_helmet_white.jpg?width=458&height=358)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: aregister on 25 October, 2012, 10:26:19 am
Walking my Brompton along a crowded London-bound platform at Ashford station this morning I am stopped by a railway employee: "Would you turn off your light, sir"? Now, the light was 'off', but I have one of those dynamo-powered rear standlights that stay lit for about 10 minutes after you stop riding, which I tried to explain to the railway man. "Sorry sir" says he,
   "but you will have to turn it off - I don't want any trains held up, thinking it's a red signal."
!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 October, 2012, 10:31:01 am
Butterfly has a similar light, which she covers with a glove or similar when we're walking near platforms.

Once, stopped with our bikes leaned against a fence beside the railway at Eastfields Station level crossing, a Southern employee advised us that the flashing rear lights could cause confusion.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 25 October, 2012, 10:32:06 am
Quote from: aregister on 25 October, 2012, 10:26:19 am
Walking my Brompton along a crowded London-bound platform at Ashford station this morning I am stopped by a railway employee: "Would you turn off your light, sir"? Now, the light was 'off', but I have one of those dynamo-powered rear standlights that stay lit for about 10 minutes after you stop riding, which I tried to explain to the railway man. "Sorry sir" says he,
   "but you will have to turn it off - I don't want any trains held up, thinking it's a red signal."
!!!

Is there any way to cover the light?
I know the platform is not directly where signals are expected but a driver could conceivably get confused on a foggy day...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 25 October, 2012, 10:48:36 am
Jobsworth, IMO.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: aregister on 25 October, 2012, 10:49:38 am
Quote from: hellymedic on 25 October, 2012, 10:32:06 am
Quote from: aregister on 25 October, 2012, 10:26:19 am
Walking my Brompton along a crowded London-bound platform at Ashford station this morning I am stopped by a railway employee: "Would you turn off your light, sir"? Now, the light was 'off', but I have one of those dynamo-powered rear standlights that stay lit for about 10 minutes after you stop riding, which I tried to explain to the railway man. "Sorry sir" says he,
   "but you will have to turn it off - I don't want any trains held up, thinking it's a red signal."
!!!

Is there any way to cover the light?
I know the platform is not directly where signals are expected but a driver could conceivably get confused on a foggy day...
Under the circumstances (crowded platform, etc) there is no way a driver would think my slowly fading rear light was a red signal - assuming he could even see it. But of course rules are rules so I folded the bike to make it look even less like a red signal. I will try Clarion's suggestion and see if any gloves might fit over it.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 October, 2012, 10:51:02 am
Be careful!  A glove perched over a light behind you may fall off and get forever lorst. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: aregister on 25 October, 2012, 10:58:36 am
Quote from: clarion on 25 October, 2012, 10:51:02 am
Be careful!  A glove perched over a light behind you may fall off and get forever lorst. :(
No problem - in my house we have a bag under the stairs full of single gloves and mittens of all sizes!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 25 October, 2012, 11:41:08 am
I got the bus to work.

That was 55 minutes door-door, despite a very quick change in the town centre, I just managed to hobble up to the bus in time that he didn't drive away.

Best moving time for the same journey, cycling, is 16:04.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 25 October, 2012, 02:46:39 pm
Quote from: aregister on 25 October, 2012, 10:26:19 am
   "but you will have to turn it off - I don't want any trains held up, thinking it's a red signal."
!!!

That a member of platform/lineside staff can stop an arbitrary train by waving a handheld red light around is the sort of safety procedure that's worth having, IMHO, and doesn't include the driver taking time to second-guess whether a light they got a brief glimpse of at the other end of a platform is attached to a bike or not.  I'm more than happy to turn my lights off on railway platforms, for this reason.

I'd consider an instant off switch to be an essential feature on a light that I would be taking regularly by train, and would either chose a light with this in mind, or retrofit a "discharge-the-standlight-capacitor" button.  Otherwise, covering it or waiting for the standlight to discharge before taking it on the platform would be entirely reasonable.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 25 October, 2012, 02:50:49 pm
  ^
This.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 October, 2012, 02:56:51 pm
I'm surprised that the rear dynamo lights don't have some kind of switch.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: aregister on 25 October, 2012, 04:04:41 pm
Quote from: Kim on 25 October, 2012, 02:46:39 pm
Quote from: aregister on 25 October, 2012, 10:26:19 am
   "but you will have to turn it off - I don't want any trains held up, thinking it's a red signal."
!!!

 Otherwise, covering it or waiting for the standlight to discharge before taking it on the platform would be entirely reasonable.

As I said, rules are rules and I'm happy to snuff it out one way or the other.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 25 October, 2012, 04:20:00 pm
ISTR some dynamo lights have two contacts, the shorting of which with a suitable metal thing, extinguishes the standlight. But it might have been a dream.

They're very hot on colours and lights on the railway. When working "on or near the line" hi viz must be orange, not yellow. No red or yellow hats either. Not sure what the line is on red flannel petticoats these days.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 25 October, 2012, 04:30:33 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 25 October, 2012, 04:20:00 pm
ISTR some dynamo lights have two contacts, the shorting of which with a suitable metal thing, extinguishes the standlight. But it might have been a dream.

No, it wasn’t. My B&M rear light has such contacts. You can short them out using a coin, key, whatever is handy.

The reason they don’t have a switch is because such a thing is illegal in Germany.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: delthebike on 25 October, 2012, 04:34:28 pm
Quote from: simonp on 25 October, 2012, 04:30:33 pm
The reason they don’t have a switch is because such a thing is illegal in Germany.
My new B&M Toplight brake plus has such a switch that kills the capacitor fed standlight. It carries the German "K" mark.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 25 October, 2012, 04:41:26 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 25 October, 2012, 04:20:00 pm
.....
They're very hot on colours and lights on the railway. When working "on or near the line" hi viz must be orange, not yellow. No red or yellow hats either.......

Imagine, if you will,  Network Rail's collective displeasure when my (antipodean) installers pitched up to start work at Reading station wearing shorts and flip-flops (or 'thongs' as they refer to them)  :D
'Well... it is summer' Wasn't really the answer I had hoped for.  ::-)

EDIT: Nor did the argument that '...Our Hi Viz was to spec' hold much water.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 25 October, 2012, 04:49:24 pm
Quote from: delthebike on 25 October, 2012, 04:34:28 pm
Quote from: simonp on 25 October, 2012, 04:30:33 pm
The reason they don’t have a switch is because such a thing is illegal in Germany.
My new B&M Toplight brake plus has such a switch that kills the capacitor fed standlight. It carries the German "K" mark.

I strongly suspect it’s a button, not an on/off switch.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 25 October, 2012, 05:04:43 pm
My K-marked B&M 4DToplight Senso Multi has a switch that turns the battery power on/off/sensor.  It will always illuminate when fed power from the dynamo.

I suspect the German requirement is that it's always on when the dynamo is turning.  Being able to discharge or disable the standlight with a switch would be allowed, as long as the light comes on when you start riding.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 25 October, 2012, 07:30:24 pm
Quote from: aregister on 25 October, 2012, 10:26:19 am
Walking my Brompton along a crowded London-bound platform at Ashford station this morning I am stopped by a railway employee: "Would you turn off your light, sir"? Now, the light was 'off', but I have one of those dynamo-powered rear standlights that stay lit for about 10 minutes after you stop riding, which I tried to explain to the railway man. "Sorry sir" says he,
   "but you will have to turn it off - I don't want any trains held up, thinking it's a red signal."
!!!
There are only a few stations where through-platforms are long enough for trains to arrive at one end, and stop short such that another train can come in at the other.  In such cases, the driver knows where to stop either by what his daily instruction says, OR by stopping at a red hand-lamp left on the platform edge.

Ashford (Kent) is one of these.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 25 October, 2012, 09:07:49 pm
What about Jenny Agutter's bloomers?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 October, 2012, 09:35:13 pm
I rarely think of anything else.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 25 October, 2012, 10:50:08 pm
Quote from: SJSBrompton on 24 October, 2012, 09:02:35 am
Slushy leaves are lethal.  Thankfully on the Central London part of my commute, they are cleared every day from both road and pavement (close to Buckingham Palace, so huge pedestrian footfall as well as the joys of the Victoria gyratory).

At the home end though, they just lie there and rot and go all squishy and slippery and sit in the gutter or in the middle of the very short section of pavement lane I use right before home.

Roads around Reading are like skating rinks in the recent mizzley weather with a nice coating of freshly pulverised leaves.  Doesn't help that it seems to be high season for diesel spills on the road at the moment.  One was so bad that I could see it coating my front wheel whilst considering whether 5mph was an excessive speed to take the next LH bend give the coefficient of friction between leaf mulch and diesel.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 26 October, 2012, 08:04:27 am
Mix rant and commute post coming up.
 I chose my extended commute today and a bit later than normal- last day of half term, so feeling a bit chilled.  Lots more cyclists on the road at this time- two shot past me at the first set of lights on the Brockley Rd, as I quietly relaxed a bit and waited at red.  On my left, mildly irritating and all too common an occurrence.  Then at the next set, it happened again.  This time, the second one actually ran over my foot-I guess I had relaxed a bit too much- it can be a long wait here and I had leaned forward resting on my handlebars, my left leg stretched out a bit.  Not even a sorry from the little poo here, or glance back to my loud "Ouch!".
    Then, through Greenwich, lo and behold, it happened again, three of them, no foot squishing this time, but actually squeezing through as I had deliberately left a smaller gap.  So by the time I headed down Peckham Rye on the last leg of my commute I was thoroughly pissed off with this rude and inconsiderate behaviour.  It happened again, two at the Nunhead Lane junction, not so intrusively as I am in primary here, then again, the same two, because i had already overtaken them, and then a third at the lights at the top of Rye Lane- I grant the left turn here is perfectly safe to make on red since the junction was redesigned and I have myself written to the council to suggest they allow it.  But it was red and I was stopped. The third individual shot through on my left, very, very close, just as the lights changed and I was moving off, forcing me off balance. Rude and dangerous- I had a mini flip out, chased him down and told him off.  As I was alongside him, angrily having a go, a bus came towards us and I was forced to cut in front of him a bit.  Whoops!
I'm not sure what the moral is- probably, keep calm and just carry on. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 26 October, 2012, 09:04:14 am
Quote from: jane on 26 October, 2012, 08:04:27 am
I'm not sure what the moral is- probably, keep calm and just carry on.
You need a cluebat

(http://www.geneticanomaly.com/RPG-Motivational/slides/cluebat.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 26 October, 2012, 09:16:15 am
Gritters out in Edinburgh city centre last night around 7PM. How much ice were they expecting ?  :hand: Made some corners dodgier than if they had just not bothered and saved us all some money.
Quiet ride in this morning, in the last few commutes I've had a few taxi's giving me plenty room to pass parked cars/stopped buses, etc.  :thumbsup: Made up for the only shouting match I've had in a year which was with a taxi a couple of weeks back.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 26 October, 2012, 09:33:27 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 26 October, 2012, 09:04:14 am
Quote from: jane on 26 October, 2012, 08:04:27 am
I'm not sure what the moral is- probably, keep calm and just carry on.
You need a cluebat

(http://www.geneticanomaly.com/RPG-Motivational/slides/cluebat.jpg)
Unfortunately, the picture has not downloaded here- I am none the wiser as to why I need a cluebat or what it is.  I can hazard a guess, though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 26 October, 2012, 09:34:49 am
Just looked it up- now I have a quick lesson filler idea for when my lot filter out of assembly in five minutes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 26 October, 2012, 09:43:47 am
I wasn't aware of the rule that states "Drivers of road coloured cars may not use their lights on dank, dark mornings"
 :facepalm:

Oh well, back to commuting in during daylight next week.  :thumbsup:
(For a few weeks)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 October, 2012, 09:53:16 am
Headwind this morning.  Felt r e a l l y slow.  But still within acceptable parameters, it turns out.

Loads of numpties.  I saw a chap on a road bike cut in so close to a hybrid that he almost caught the bars with his seatpack.  They hybrid rider had no hands on the bars :facepalm:

A weird thing happened on Upper Tooting Road.  I was going OK, not as fast as normal, but certainly faster than the average.  I slowed slightly to watch a situation develop as a van was trying to turn left in front of me.

Then I felt a hand on my back, and an older guy on a road bike and in club kit was 'helping' me up the rise.  Er, thanks.  I don't mind, particularly, but there was a good reason I had slowed there, and it wasn't the gradient.  The other rider was smiling and said a couple of words I didn't catch, but they were cheery, then rode on.  I suppose he thought he knew me.

Actually, thinking back, I think this has happened once before. 

As I say, it's not a big deal, but I hope he isn't in the habit of touching people unexpectedly, as some riders might be spooked into a wobble, and others might be very unhappy about it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 26 October, 2012, 01:42:09 pm
Quote from: clarion on 26 October, 2012, 09:53:16 am
As I say, it's not a big deal, but I hope he isn't in the habit of touching people unexpectedly, as some riders might be spooked into a wobble, and others might be very unhappy about it.

Jimmy Saville is alive and well and living down yonder Londinium parts?  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 October, 2012, 01:45:58 pm
As I am (quite evidently) not a 15yo girl, I don't think I'd be attractive to a resurrected JS.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dave_C on 26 October, 2012, 02:21:29 pm
Nice crisp mornings ride into Edinburgh this morn from Fife. Caught up with a fellow rider from Inverkeithing as I did on Wednesday. Nice to have a riding companion to chew the fat with for most of the ride in. Had a winge to the cooncil as the leaves on the cycle paths are getting very deep.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 26 October, 2012, 06:18:59 pm
Quote from: sg37409 on 26 October, 2012, 09:16:15 am
Gritters out in Edinburgh city centre last night around 7PM. How much ice were they expecting ? 
There's an amber weather alert for snow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: red marley on 26 October, 2012, 09:33:57 pm
Quote from: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 26 October, 2012, 06:18:59 pm
There's an amber weather alert for snow.

Tip of the day: Don't eat amber snow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 26 October, 2012, 09:38:26 pm
Quote from: jo on 26 October, 2012, 09:33:57 pm
Quote from: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 26 October, 2012, 06:18:59 pm
There's an amber weather alert for snow.

Tip of the day: Don't eat amber snow.
This tip has been brought to you by Mr. F. Zappa.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 26 October, 2012, 09:52:10 pm
Encountered a particularly unpleasant cabbie tonight. I was riding a hire bike in a bus lane, (in primary) quite slowly as I was right behind a taxi that, itself, was behind a line of slow-moving buses, when I heard a repeated tooting behind me. Quick glance revealed a taxi about a foot from my wheel. Tooting continued for the next 100 yards or so, even though there was nowhere for him to go, and I could hear him shouting out the window. So I moved into the (empty) right hand lane and let him come through on my left.  Cue the predictable abuse, questions of parentage and observations about my similarity to sexually active male and female genitalia. Then he swerved towards me and sped off.

Still not sure what the problem was. At any point he could have overtaken me and all the vehicles in front of me simply by changing lanes.

Most odd.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 26 October, 2012, 10:14:01 pm
I think, fundamentally, that the problem was that said taxi driver was a muppet, Redlight.  With a sprinkling of cockwomble-ish-ness on top, a side-order of prize buffoon, and a garnish of being a fecking idiot.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 26 October, 2012, 10:38:36 pm
Definitely a bit of a "roamin' in the gloamin'" vibe on the ride in this morning - Sod's Law dictated that about 15 minutes after I got to work the sun came out  ::-)

The ride home was rather better, but the wind was picking up and sweet Jeebus it was cold. Matters probably weren't helped that I didn't eat anything before leaving the office and my blood sugar was down to 'running on fumes' by the time I got home.

Even better, a combination of the Ay-Up lights and the Jacket of Mass Distraction1 meant that nobody tried to turn me into axle lubricant.

1 - Altura Night Vision. Orange. Very much so.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 29 October, 2012, 06:45:09 pm
i was overtaken and dropped by the guy that i used to overtake before (i.e. few months ago) - what is that supposed to mean? ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ianrauk on 29 October, 2012, 08:25:54 pm
Quote from: zigzag on 29 October, 2012, 06:45:09 pm
i was overtaken and dropped by the guy that i used to overtake before (i.e. few months ago) - what is that supposed to mean? ???

Shocked....I am
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 29 October, 2012, 09:50:41 pm
Quote from: ianrauk on 29 October, 2012, 08:25:54 pm
Quote from: zigzag on 29 October, 2012, 06:45:09 pm
i was overtaken and dropped by the guy that i used to overtake before (i.e. few months ago) - what is that supposed to mean? ???

Shocked....I am

 ;D life's cruel: if you stop improving, you get left behind.. need to get myself sorted!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil W on 29 October, 2012, 10:23:26 pm
I got to see my new lighting setup for the winter. Nice and bright in dark country lanes

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8044/8136531599_922af2a1ec.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/28037612@N03/8136531599/)
redlight (http://www.flickr.com/photos/28037612@N03/8136531599/) by Game Of Chance (http://www.flickr.com/people/28037612@N03/), on Flickr
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 29 October, 2012, 10:59:45 pm
Quote from: Phil W on 29 October, 2012, 10:23:26 pm
I got to see my new lighting setup for the winter. Nice and bright in dark country lanes

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8044/8136531599_922af2a1ec.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/28037612@N03/8136531599/)

Maximillian - that you out there?...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 30 October, 2012, 10:00:52 am
Due to half term and low lying grottiness, I decided to 'treat myself' (as one of my regular fellow commuters put it ;D) and ride the galaxy rather than the tandem today. It was lovely - I averaged over 12 MPH for the first time since 3rd September! :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 30 October, 2012, 10:17:21 am
:D :thumbsup:

Speed queen!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Marco Stefano on 30 October, 2012, 01:04:52 pm
Foggy, drippy, muddy, lovely. I beieve there was a sunrise somewhere but I couldn't quite see it.

Generally muddy turned inch-thick muddy as I ended my cross-fen bit, and I slithered gently off the road camber, losing back wheel, front wheel, back wheel, front wheel. Relax, unclip, back brake gently and place left foot into muddy verge. It looked like I was being followed by two snakes.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 30 October, 2012, 01:05:51 pm
Tucked in behind a circus lorry on the way to Yarmouth for half a mile, must be half term soon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 30 October, 2012, 07:35:27 pm
Riding home today, feeling a bit sorry for myself, I took the pretty way. Down Lonesome lane, waved to the bears, then right towards Hookwood. Traversed The Roundabout where just about one year ago I lost a couple of hours of my life. 

Anyhoo...I'm pootling towards a T junction. Left takes me towards the A23 (dual carriageway and horrid direct way to Crawley), right takes me the longer way, through Charlwood and the back end of Crawley and is my route of choice. There's a cyclist at the T.

"Excuse me do you know the way to Crawley?"
"Umm yes. Wherabouts in Crawley?
"The Hawth Theatre"
<fx: me weighing up route options>
"How long have you got?"
"I'm playing at half seven?"
"Follow me"

And off we went, down the back lanes, nattering away. It turns out Tom is a tuba and double bass player (he didn't have his instruments with him), and had cycled down from Woodford Green for tonight's gig. He's in the orchestra for Chicago, which is at the Hawth this week.  What a top bloke! And chatting away while keeping up Good Progress lifted my spirits no end. We got to the theatre at seven, which, apparently, was plenty of time.

Break a leg Tom.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 30 October, 2012, 08:13:48 pm
You are so awesome, Tim!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 30 October, 2012, 08:40:14 pm
He should have been in the building for 'the half', which would be five to seven.  But good work, Tim :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 30 October, 2012, 09:33:17 pm
Puncture on way home. On the unlit unpavemented lane. With only my cyo for light. Secondary light at home on desk  :facepalm:

Walked just over half a mile to where there were pavements and streetlights. I didn't expect any cars to stop but the two cyclists who went past during my trudge could at least have said hello even if they weren't going to ask if I needed help.  ::-)

Fixed the puncture (well swapped out the tube) but annoyingly have managed to put three decent scrathes in my new faux brooks when the qr got stuck in the rear derailleur. Bit of a shame but there we go.

Thanks to the chap that did stop whilst I was mid fix.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 31 October, 2012, 10:57:32 am
For the first time in almost a year, I commuted on a fixer, the last one having been busted by a dozy bint in a megan, who had a go at spoiling my boyish good looks too. All that's behind me and the new fixer conversion is good too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 01 November, 2012, 07:42:19 pm
Puncture = ungood.

Puncture in same place as Tuesday's one = double plus ungood.

Puncture causing me to get caught in the rain I'd otherwise have missed = double double plus ungood.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 November, 2012, 07:43:45 pm
Marathon Plus is your friend

(says the man who's just fitted Marathon Racers :-[ )
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 01 November, 2012, 07:44:53 pm
Sounds like a job for Marathon DoublePlus, though, really.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 01 November, 2012, 08:02:10 pm
Can you get Marathon Pluses in 23mm? I thought they were bigger than that.

In my tyres defence I had planned to patch the inside of the hole when I got home Tuesday but didn't get round to it. In my defence I hadn't realised the damage to the tyre was as bad as it was or I'd have made sure I'd sorted it.

Current tyres are Continental Ultra Gatorskins and have had them on since April 2011/~5000miles. Is that good or bad life from them. Do I replace with the same or something different?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 November, 2012, 08:23:09 pm
Gatorskins?  There's your trouble, mate

*sharp intake of breath*

Durano Plus come in 23s. ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil W on 01 November, 2012, 08:35:16 pm
Quote from: iddu on 29 October, 2012, 10:59:45 pm
Quote from: Phil W on 29 October, 2012, 10:23:26 pm
I got to see my new lighting setup for the winter. Nice and bright in dark country lanes

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8044/8136531599_922af2a1ec.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/28037612@N03/8136531599/)

Maximillian - that you out there?...

The cylons are coming  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 01 November, 2012, 08:41:36 pm
Quote from: Ashaman42 on 01 November, 2012, 08:02:10 pm
Current tyres are Continental Ultra Gatorskins and have had them on since April 2011/~5000miles. Is that good or bad life from them.

How many miles do you want from a comparatively light tyre? I'm OK with anything beyond 2000 miles and really happy with 3000 miles from a tyre that is actually enjoyable to ride. Marathon Plus doesn't rate on that scale IMHO.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Hot Flatus on 01 November, 2012, 08:44:54 pm
I drove.

It was pleasantly easy, but I felt cheated.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 01 November, 2012, 08:46:17 pm
Guess that's not bad then, annoyingly they're not actually particularly worn out it's a just a couple nicks/slashes from flints.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 01 November, 2012, 08:52:47 pm
Quote from: Ashaman42 on 01 November, 2012, 08:02:10 pm
Current tyres are Continental Ultra Gatorskins and have had them on since April 2011/~5000miles. Is that good or bad life from them. Do I replace with the same or something different?

Do whatever you like but replace them!  If they are repeatedly puncturing they are worn out!

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 01 November, 2012, 08:56:52 pm
Well hardly repeatedly puncturing, the second puncture was damage through the exact same hole as the first.

Currently perusing tyres though, should have a replacement on the way tomorrow. Or might see what my LBS have on Saturday as I want to talk to them about N+1.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 01 November, 2012, 09:21:28 pm
It was cold this evening. I rode 4.5 miles, then caught the train for the second half. It was warm and nice :).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 02 November, 2012, 08:39:04 am
Saw one I haven't seen for a while today. What can best be described as an 'occasional' cyclist riding one handed-no gloves so alternating hands with pulled down sleeve in lieu of glove.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: urban_biker on 02 November, 2012, 08:43:31 am
Quote from: Ashaman42 on 01 November, 2012, 08:46:17 pm
Guess that's not bad then, annoyingly they're not actually particularly worn out it's a just a couple nicks/slashes from flints.

This is the problem I have had with gatorskins in the past. They seem very prone to being sliced by flints.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 02 November, 2012, 09:15:30 am
Quote from: Phil W on 01 November, 2012, 08:35:16 pm
Quote from: iddu on 29 October, 2012, 10:59:45 pm
Quote from: Phil W on 29 October, 2012, 10:23:26 pm
I got to see my new lighting setup for the winter. Nice and bright in dark country lanes

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8044/8136531599_922af2a1ec.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/28037612@N03/8136531599/)

Maximillian - that you out there?...

The cylons are coming  :o

Where's Starbuck when you need her?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: urban_biker on 02 November, 2012, 09:18:29 am
Quote from: fuzzy on 02 November, 2012, 09:15:30 am
Quote from: Phil W on 01 November, 2012, 08:35:16 pm
Quote from: iddu on 29 October, 2012, 10:59:45 pm
Quote from: Phil W on 29 October, 2012, 10:23:26 pm
I got to see my new lighting setup for the winter. Nice and bright in dark country lanes

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8044/8136531599_922af2a1ec.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/28037612@N03/8136531599/)

Maximillian - that you out there?...

The cylons are coming  :o

Where's Starbuck when you need her?

Busy not paying UK tax I suspect.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 02 November, 2012, 08:51:33 pm
And so it begins.   The winter commutes.

Today was my first proper winter ride in.
Proper-dark till sunrise on the climb, and then sunset on the climb on the way home followed by proper-dark again.

Not as cold as yesterday ( 4 degrees when I set out today, sub-zero yesterday but I was not riding ).
Everything has just slowed down massivly.   All the heavy winter gear just drops my pace like the proverbial ugly baby.

Roads wet, but not raining.
Bike a total mess  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: eck on 02 November, 2012, 08:59:42 pm
You still riding over yon Cairn o'Mount?  :facepalm:
Pure mental, youse are.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 02 November, 2012, 09:43:58 pm
For the meantime!

Once the overnight temps drop well below freezing, I'll give it up.
The early-morning climb is not the problem: the descent is, before things have thawed out.

If the Cairn is closed to me, then I must take a more treacherous route, through the Mines of Auchenblae  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 03 November, 2012, 08:23:26 am
I've seen that sort of reasoning somewhere before.

Quote from: Gandalf
There is a way that we may attempt. I thought from the beginning, when first I considered this journey, that we should try it. But it is not a pleasant way, and I have not spoken of it to the Company before. Aragorn was against it, until the pass over the mountains had at least been tried.
Quote from: Merry
If it is a worse road than the Redhorn Gate, then it must be evil indeed. But you had better tell us about it, and let us know the worst at once.
Quote from: Gandalf
The road that I speak of leads to the Mines of Moria.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 03 November, 2012, 08:34:18 am
When I saw that quote from Gandalf, am I very wrong to have first thought of our yacf Gandalf? LOL!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 03 November, 2012, 11:35:28 am
Quote from: Wendy on 03 November, 2012, 08:34:18 am
When I saw that quote from Gandalf, am I very wrong to have first thought of our yacf Gandalf? LOL!

Not me, a different grey haired old git  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 03 November, 2012, 07:42:36 pm
What, are you changing your name to Sherlock now? ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 05 November, 2012, 09:21:20 am
Holy chode-mode Batman, that was chilly!  :o.

Heavy legs too. Flooded, gritty lanes. Puddles of pig slurry.

Marvellous  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 November, 2012, 09:24:29 am
Surprisingly fast, considering I'm not feeling right yet, and was pacing myself.

I thought there must be a tailwind, but the Met Office say there was a slight headwind.

I did enjoy the mist at the start, but didn't appreciate having to share roads with idiots in cars.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 05 November, 2012, 10:09:31 am
So, do I report the burst water main in Potters Lane to Thames Water for a fourth time or do I just wait until it start flooding the community centre (should be later today judging from the build up of water around their door)?
Idiots claim they've sent people to look for it, but can't find it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 05 November, 2012, 10:54:04 am
There seemed to be a leak outside Streatham Bus Garage too. it was causing a lot of spray and running all the way across 6 lanes :-\.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 05 November, 2012, 05:20:52 pm
Cufaude lane under water again so went the long way round, still some pretty large puddles out there, hope it drains before it starts to freeze, or will have to resort to First Great Western  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 05 November, 2012, 09:12:55 pm
Lovely cycling today. It was a bit chilly this evening on the way home but I wasn't overdressed as usual so I was comfortably snug bar my toes which were a bit numb.

Regretting not picking up a bigger pair of the lidl shoes whilst they were about to give more sock room.

Could have carried on past home this evening but wanted to get home and eat  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 06 November, 2012, 08:44:23 am
First proper frost of the autumn for me. Boy were my cheeks glowing when I arrived at work! Proper fresh. Lovely :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 06 November, 2012, 08:49:50 am
Frosty in E London - all the open spaces/parks were sparkly white.  A few puddles looked a bit icy as well.  According to my computer the coldest point of my ride in was at 2.3C.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 06 November, 2012, 09:03:36 am
The fields and rugby ground at Chiswick, just before you cross the river at Barnes Bridge, looked very pretty and sparkly this morning.

One or two of the puddles by the side of the road looked a little dodgy, will have to look out for them later.

Nice blue skies over Buckingham Palace; don't mind this weather when it is dry, it's the rain I don't like.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 November, 2012, 09:30:00 am
Frost on the cars at home, and like icing sugar over Mitcham Common.  Fortunately, it was warmer at Streatham Hill, where there is a huge water leak all the way across the road from the bus garage.  If they don't get that fixed soon, it'll be a new ice rink. :(

Reasonable ride in.  A pleasing number of cyclists before the half way point.  It's hard to believe that, when we first moved out into the 'burbs, it was rare to see another cyclist before Tooting Broadway. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 06 November, 2012, 09:52:03 am
Lady cyclist looked like she was being given a ticket by motorbike PC in Whitehall. Just past a set of traffic lights that a lot of people ignore....

There also seemed to be a disproportionately high number of people on the phone today, including one lady weaving all over the place in the New Kent Road. Good to see the drop in temperature hasn't put too many people off cycling in though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 06 November, 2012, 09:58:49 am
witnessed an incident at london wall junction: green light for pedestrians, cyclist goes through red light, tries to weave among pedestrians; one of them pushes the cyclist off who ends up bumping into the crowd on the pavement. same guy grabs cyclist by the arm and shouts into his face "don't f**'n do that again!!". the cyclist leaves the site shaking his head.

serves him right? did he learn a lesson?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 06 November, 2012, 10:23:13 am
Quote from: zigzag on 06 November, 2012, 09:58:49 am
witnessed an incident at london wall junction: green light for pedestrians, cyclist goes through red light, tries to weave among pedestrians; one of them pushes the cyclist off who ends up bumping into the crowd on the pavement. same guy grabs cyclist by the arm and shouts into his face "don't f**'n do that again!!". the cyclist leaves the site shaking his head.

serves him right? did he learn a lesson?

Yes it did serve him right.
Lesson? Sadly yes- that in his opinion, pedestrians are wankers ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 06 November, 2012, 10:26:05 am
Quote from: zigzag on 06 November, 2012, 09:58:49 am


serves him right? did he learn a lesson?

Yes.

No.

Where does it stop? Someone now needs to teach the assaulter a lesson, ideally by application of legal process, but that won't happen.....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 November, 2012, 10:39:43 am
I don't condone violence.  I can understand the frustration of the pedestrian at a dick on a bike, but, unless they were about to hit someone directly, I doubt I'd intervene physically.  That doesn't undermine the pedestrian's case. 

I watched a rider go through a red light at a pedestrian crossing I was stopped at.  There were five children and two adults on the crossing at the time.  Arsehole.  I certainly don't want people judging me by the actions of such a tool, but there's little I can do about it.

The media do stoke up anti-cyclist fervour, and that could be acted on in a misplaced fashion.  Riding through Guildford on a shared path a couple of weeks ago, I encountered a chap walking with a woman.  He stuck his stick out to block the path, and I tried to move onto the grass, but the slippery wood edging prevented me.  He probably felt justified as my bike went to the deck (I stayed upright), but that wasn't right.

Red lights at crossings, obviously, are a clear cut matter.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 06 November, 2012, 10:53:09 am
OK - it's winter now. Cold ears this morning (can't find windproof headband thing - bought a new one on way back home after first meeting).

Have to hop over to a job in Stoke Poges later - think it will be pretty chilly out that way even with the sun trying to warm things up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 06 November, 2012, 12:24:50 pm
A couple of years back a cyclist zipped through a very busy pedestrian light on High Holborn. Or tried to. Beefy guy grabbed his bag and cyclist and bike parted company. In theory I disagree, but as a pedestrian trying to cross at the time, I can't say I was overcome with sympathy. I think he may have thought twice before running a busy pedestrian crossing in future.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 06 November, 2012, 12:45:11 pm
As I was crossing the road the other day on foot, the green man went out halfway and a cyclist took this as his cue to attempt to run me over. I really did have to stop myself from shoving him and instead contented myself with calling him a word beginning with w.

No ice evident on my teeny-tiny commute this morning, it didn’t even feel all that cold. I still have my union flag cable-tied to the rack despite the ‘lympics being long gone; its fluttering seems to induce most drivers into giving me a bit more room. They’re a bit like horses in that they don’t like getting too close to flappy things…
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CJBrewer on 06 November, 2012, 01:40:39 pm
I very often want to shove cyclists that do this, but it's better to let karma deal with them. Apart from anything else, if you did push someone and they wobbled and fell under a bus...  :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 06 November, 2012, 01:41:08 pm
I have no sympathy with the cyclist. If I were crossing the road and someone rode a bike at me I'd feel perfectly justified in protecting myself. However, it's not clear to me from ZigZag's account whether or not the pedestrian was in danger, so I can't condone the action he took in this instance.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 06 November, 2012, 01:45:51 pm
I have been known to use my best nanny voice to tell a cyclist to WAIT whilst I was on a crossing in Brixton. I was crossing slowly with a 2 year old at the time. I have also done the same to a car whose driver was watching the lights flash and taking that as his cue to go, despite us still crossing. I've been tempted to push the ill-mannered louts off, but I wouldn't actually do it (I hope).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 06 November, 2012, 01:51:48 pm
Quote from: clarion on 06 November, 2012, 10:39:43 am
He stuck his stick out to block the path, and I tried to move onto the grass, but the slippery wood edging prevented me.  He probably felt justified as my bike went to the deck (I stayed upright), but that wasn't right.

I would have lobbed his stick over the nearest fence / embankment / into the canal, etc.

I don't run red lights or go through crossings generally but if someone acts like a dick towards me and the possible aim is to cause me harm then they need to understand there is consequences and sometimes from my point of view calling someone a c**k just don't cut it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 November, 2012, 01:54:03 pm
I was with other folk, and he was just a silly old man.  I suspect that nothing I could have done would have changed his mind.
Title: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 06 November, 2012, 01:56:07 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 06 November, 2012, 01:41:08 pm
I have no sympathy with the cyclist. If I were crossing the road and someone rode a bike at me I'd feel perfectly justified in protecting myself. However, it's not clear to me from ZigZag's account whether or not the pedestrian was in danger, so I can't condone the action he took in this instance.

the cyclist went right in front of the guy, who then pushed him
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 November, 2012, 02:01:14 pm
Sounds like the rider was a complete wazzock, but it's hard to comment without seeing it.  I hope he does think about it next time he fancies ploughing through pedestrians.

I find that the problem in this city on any sort of transport - tube, car, bike, foot, bus, whatever - is the widespread lack of respect or concern for anyone else.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CJBrewer on 06 November, 2012, 02:13:30 pm
Quote from: clarion on 06 November, 2012, 02:01:14 pm
Sounds like the rider was a complete wazzock, but it's hard to comment without seeing it.  I hope he does think about it next time he fancies ploughing through pedestrians.

I find that the problem in this city on any sort of transport - tube, car, bike, foot, bus, whatever - is the widespread lack of respect or concern for anyone else.

Agreed -- All you need to do to prove this point is be polite and accommodating to someone on the tube, or let someone out of a side street, etc... And see the look of surprise and shock on their face :D

For what it's worth, it always makes me happier when I've been nice to people than  when I've been a c*nt to them (whatever the provocation).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 06 November, 2012, 04:39:51 pm
I don't think the Addion Lee driver that cut me up has had His training yet.....see link

http://www.bikehub.co.uk/news/bike-to-work/addisonlee/
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 06 November, 2012, 10:44:35 pm
Bloody puncture on the way home. And I bust the nubbin off the valve of the offending tube as I was wrestling it out. Partly my fault - pinch flat, although the pothole I hit was all Surrey County Council's responsibility. 

Further on into the ride, having taken a scenic route, I found myself going down the same lane I led the itinerant tuba player last week. And in front of me was a rear light, making Good Progress. Was it him again?  I upped the pace to try and catch him. He was really going and it took me a while to get up behind him, but couldn't pass him. It didn't look like him - the luggage was wrong, but he was a strong rider for sure.

I had the radio on in my headphones, and I can change stations by a push button on the mic. Click, click. What's this? The mighty Quo, Down down deeper and down. Three chords and driving bass and I flew past him. Cheeky sod was on a bendy bike, giving it full beans. Great fun. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mr magnolia on 06 November, 2012, 11:47:55 pm
Broke two spokes bumping a big unknown thing with lots on the bike. Buggered the wheel enough to make riding tricky.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 07 November, 2012, 06:50:44 am
Quote from: clarion on 06 November, 2012, 01:54:03 pm
I was with other folk, and he was just a silly old man.  I suspect that nothing I could have done would have changed his mind.

Yeah, some people are just arses. Had an old chap that used to try and hit us with his stick whilst he sat at the bus stop on our way to college many moons ago. All for the crime of walking along the pavement (no bikes either).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 07 November, 2012, 09:01:51 am
30mph headwinds. Ugh
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 07 November, 2012, 11:00:59 pm
Coming out of the industrial estate where I work, the road kind of widens as it approaches a T junction. Fuds park all over the widened bit, ignoring the double yellows. I'm used to this and tuned in.

I clock a car on my left disgorging a passenger. It pulls away from the curb, no indicator no nothing. I'm almost along side, so ease off. It pulls across right (to turn right at the T), oblivious to my presence.  I whoop a bit to make myself known to the driver, who is now stopped, as the road in front is chocked up.  She eventually finds the window switch. I point out she didn't look where she was going and perhaps it might be a good idea if she did.  She counters that I should have "one of those bright jackets". I lift my front wheel and spin it to demonstrate my IQ LED firey goodness.  All of which is useless if drivers don't bloody look.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CJBrewer on 08 November, 2012, 11:03:45 am
Quote from: Tim Hall on 07 November, 2012, 11:00:59 pm
All of which is useless if drivers don't bloody look.

Speaking of which, poor old Bradley  :facepalm: ::-)
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-20248706
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 08 November, 2012, 02:52:33 pm
A WMV went to cut across me at roseburn this morn.   Braked and stopped, this is a dodgy bit on my commute so I try to expect the unexpected here.  When he spotted me he stopped and gave apologetic wave. I acknowledged it and carried on, my wifes "extra goodbye caution because of bradley" ringing in my ears.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RJ on 08 November, 2012, 09:45:53 pm
I saw a flock of waxwings round about the Telfer subway.

Otherwise pretty uneventful.  Entirely predictable 20km/h bike-moving average ...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 November, 2012, 08:36:51 am
I rode in early this morning.  26.2kph, which is my fastest average all year.  I have managed faster - three times, all 26.7kph ave - in July & August last year.  But I'm happy with this morning's ride.  I felt very hungry half an hour after I got to work.

Even before 0700, the roads weren't clear.  There were traffic jams (albeit smaller than usual) at all the normal points.  Kinda depressing, that, really.  And I barely saw a cyclist till Balham.  Just like commuting four years ago.

But it was a fun ride, and I'd be tempted to do it more often, if I could get up at 0500. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 12 November, 2012, 08:33:17 am
Late in today- left the house a bit later than usual, just as the sun was coming up, promising a beautiful sunrise and just couldn't resist riding up Blythe Hill to see it, then on to Greenwich, Shooters Hill and then to work.  The zen produced by witnessing this natural wonder and extended commute could not even be dented by the usual crashing of my profile on the computer system again, an event which normally results in me throwing all my toys out of the pram, especially on the days when we have no technician (in only on wednesdays and Fridays).  I'll just teach old school today, pens, boards, hand made teaching resources.  No problem.  Leans back and sighs contendedly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 12 November, 2012, 08:35:51 am
Overtaken so closely this morning by an Anglican Windows van that I thought I was a goner. I've fired off a note to them, thankfully all their vans have big orange van numbers on the rear.

Rest of the commute was lovely really, cold and dry, maintained a slow but happy pace.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 November, 2012, 09:19:04 am
Anglican Windows?  Stained glass specialists?  Or experts in supplying those living in glass houses, perhaps? ;D

More seriously, I'm glad you're still with us, Dave.  Hope the complaint gets a positive result.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 12 November, 2012, 09:29:19 am
I seem to be having a bit of a run of near misses this week. Hauling a load of tents back to the Scout hut in the trailer on Saturday night was approaching a set of traffic lights. it's an incline and I'm 10 to 15 metres away braking as the trailers pushing me downhill.

Idiot in a silver car overtakes pulls in front and brakes. I had two choices slam into the back of him, or squeeze the bike down the side I was closest to while trying to keep the thing in a line. I went down the side and striped his car from end to end with my handlebar.  Got the bike stopped just by the wing mirror.

He went mental, thankfully being outside a cop station, my suggestion we nip inside to talk to the officers about his case of lack of due care and attention seemed to quell his rage somewhat.  I did of course have a sit down and a bit of a wibble when he'd buggered off.

And before anyone asks the bikes fine.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 12 November, 2012, 09:31:50 am
Whilst walking to the office from the Station  :-[ I witnessed a cyclist turn down the 'exit' ramp* of the building against an oncoming car.

*Unfortunately you should cycle past the building to the entrance ramp, then back under the building in the basement carpark to the cycle cage by the exit ramp. As you can imagine this is not common practise with most cyclists therefore entering down the exit ramp.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 12 November, 2012, 09:41:35 am
Lets go for third time lucky.

Jurek
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 November, 2012, 09:42:50 am
Lucky is good.

Erm...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 12 November, 2012, 09:52:55 am
Quote from: Jurek on 12 November, 2012, 09:41:35 am
Lets go for third time lucky.

Jurek

E17?  All the best Jurek!  Report back when you have something to report!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 12 November, 2012, 12:40:42 pm
Soggy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 12 November, 2012, 12:42:46 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 12 November, 2012, 09:41:35 am
Lets go for third time lucky.

Jurek

Fingers crossed and best wishes :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 12 November, 2012, 12:49:08 pm
12miles of headwind this morning "again" & looking like 20+ miles of wet on the way home  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 12 November, 2012, 12:55:12 pm
Fainted on top of my folded Brompton while in a packed Overground train. Not done that before! I guess the lurgy that packed me into bed last Thursday till Sunday had taken a bit out of me. About half an hour at work before heading back to bed for the rest of the day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 12 November, 2012, 12:56:23 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 12 November, 2012, 09:41:35 am
Lets go for third time lucky.

Jurek
Does this mean what I think it means?  Wahay!  I wish you luck, whatever it means!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 12 November, 2012, 12:58:37 pm
Quote from: LittleWheelsandBig on 12 November, 2012, 12:55:12 pm
Fainted on top of my folded Brompton while in a packed Overground train. Not done that before! I guess the lurgy that packed me into bed last Thursday till Sunday had taken a bit out of me. About half an hour at work before heading back to bed for the rest of the day.

Eeeeks!

Take care LWAB.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 12 November, 2012, 01:01:50 pm
Quote from: LittleWheelsandBig on 12 November, 2012, 12:55:12 pm
Fainted on top of my folded Brompton while in a packed Overground train. Not done that before! I guess the lurgy that packed me into bed last Thursday till Sunday had taken a bit out of me. About half an hour at work before heading back to bed for the rest of the day.

Blimey - hope the Brompton was okay!

(and you heal up well).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 12 November, 2012, 01:16:51 pm
A Brommie is much tougher than I am. I was standing astride it due to space restrictions. There were enough people packed in that I just gently slid down and sort of squatted on it. No damage at all, except to my male ego. Irredeemably damaged, I'd say.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 12 November, 2012, 02:49:00 pm
LWAB

Be careful and check your sugar levels.  Though overheating can definitely cause this.

At one stage during the summer, which wasn't that hot, I felt so weird and faint on the way home, when I often eat a Nakd cereal bar (pressed fruit only, very sugary).  The train was so crowded that I was standing by the door and was so pressed in I couldn't open my S bag to get the cereal bar out.

I could get to my phone; hubby meets me at the station on his Brompton anyway.  I asked him if he could meet me on the platform (thankfully all the station staff know him), which he did - I thought my legs might go.

I spent 5 minutes sitting down doing the head between the legs thing and ate the cereal bar - and was right as rain within a few minutes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 12 November, 2012, 03:10:08 pm
Nice brake test in the wet owing to a car pulling out from a side road right in front of me. Despite stopping less than a metre from their side window I couldn't even tell if there was a driver inside, the side windows and windscreen were so deeply tinted. Very smart, I'm sure, on a wet and grey November day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: handcyclist on 12 November, 2012, 04:34:41 pm
Quote from: davelodwig on 12 November, 2012, 09:29:19 am
He went mental, thankfully being outside a cop station, my suggestion we nip inside to talk to the officers about his case of lack of due care and attention seemed to quell his rage somewhat.  I did of course have a sit down and a bit of a wibble when he'd buggered off.

And before anyone asks the bikes fine.

Blimey, that was fortunate! Glad you are relatively unscathed. Scary.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 12 November, 2012, 04:41:10 pm
Quote from: handcyclist on 12 November, 2012, 04:34:41 pm
Quote from: davelodwig on 12 November, 2012, 09:29:19 am
He went mental, thankfully being outside a cop station, my suggestion we nip inside to talk to the officers about his case of lack of due care and attention seemed to quell his rage somewhat.  I did of course have a sit down and a bit of a wibble when he'd buggered off.

And before anyone asks the bikes fine.

Blimey, that was fortunate! Glad you are relatively unscathed. Scary.

As a species, many think we Plod are chuffing useless but, our caves are a different story :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: keeks on 12 November, 2012, 04:45:07 pm
sorry to all I freak out when I applying my brakes , they squeal like a burning witch.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 12 November, 2012, 06:59:36 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 12 November, 2012, 09:41:35 am
Lets go for third time lucky.

Jurek

Good luck. Remember, no stabbing people with scalpels.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 12 November, 2012, 07:12:39 pm
Rain, broken light, escaping a stupid car by CXing over a muddy verge, silly rat-runners through the village trying to force their way past and then fog.

Other than that the ride home was marvellous ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 12 November, 2012, 08:35:11 pm
Good rides today. Even the way home which was rather wet and a bit windy. Fairly slow but not as hard as expected so just plodded on.

Comment above have reminded my braking was subpar though, not sure if dirty rims or knackered pads. Have had rather a run of dry rides lately so maybe it was just a bit of sludge on the rims.

Will go baby wipe them now, would surgical spirit be a good idea or not? Would it affect the tyres/pads?

ETA Just stuck with baby wipes in the end as I hadn't realised surgical spirit contained castor oil which i'm sure wouldn't be the best think on braking surfaces.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 12 November, 2012, 08:45:43 pm
Quote from: jane on 12 November, 2012, 12:56:23 pm
Does this mean what I think it means?  Wahay!  I wish you luck, whatever it means!

It does. And thank you  :)

Quote from: Tim Hall on 12 November, 2012, 06:59:36 pm
Good luck. Remember, no stabbing people with scalpels.

So far today, I've done a site survey, and a fair bit of intranet hovering, and as far as I'm aware there's been little, if any, bloodshed.

In addition to which, I have been asked to come back tomorrow.

So I must be doing something right.

Thanks all  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 12 November, 2012, 10:17:43 pm
 :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 13 November, 2012, 08:50:36 am
Quote from: Ashaman42 on 12 November, 2012, 08:35:11 pm
Will go baby wipe them now, would surgical spirit be a good idea or not? Would it affect the tyres/pads?

ETA Just stuck with baby wipes in the end as I hadn't realised surgical spirit contained castor oil which i'm sure wouldn't be the best think on braking surfaces.
Wipe them off with paper towel or cloth moistened with washing up liquid. Helps braking to an amazing degree.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 13 November, 2012, 08:55:01 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 13 November, 2012, 08:50:36 am
Quote from: Ashaman42 on 12 November, 2012, 08:35:11 pm
Will go baby wipe them now, would surgical spirit be a good idea or not? Would it affect the tyres/pads?

ETA Just stuck with baby wipes in the end as I hadn't realised surgical spirit contained castor oil which i'm sure wouldn't be the best think on braking surfaces.
Wipe them off with paper towel or cloth moistened with washing up liquid. Helps braking to an amazing degree.

Oooh, thanks for that tip. I'll give it a try...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 13 November, 2012, 09:25:00 am
Quote from: Jurek on 12 November, 2012, 08:45:43 pm
Quote from: jane on 12 November, 2012, 12:56:23 pm
Does this mean what I think it means?  Wahay!  I wish you luck, whatever it means!

It does. And thank you  :)

Quote from: Tim Hall on 12 November, 2012, 06:59:36 pm
Good luck. Remember, no stabbing people with scalpels.

So far today, I've done a site survey, and a fair bit of intranet hovering, and as far as I'm aware there's been little, if any, bloodshed.

In addition to which, I have been asked to come back tomorrow.

So I must be doing something right.

Thanks all  :)

Congrats, does that mean you are commuting to E17? (sounds unlikely but...)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 13 November, 2012, 09:31:09 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 13 November, 2012, 08:50:36 am
Quote from: Ashaman42 on 12 November, 2012, 08:35:11 pm
Will go baby wipe them now, would surgical spirit be a good idea or not? Would it affect the tyres/pads?

ETA Just stuck with baby wipes in the end as I hadn't realised surgical spirit contained castor oil which i'm sure wouldn't be the best think on braking surfaces.
Wipe them off with paper towel or cloth moistened with washing up liquid. Helps braking to an amazing degree.

Wot e sed. If you want to really improve the braking then rubbing the rims and pads with a cloth covered in WD40 works - but everything squeals like hell afterwards.

I don't think that even disks would have been much good in my case above. The car was on a single lane road and the driver was getting ready to park on the right hand side (where I was cycling going the other way) without signalling or looking round the bend first. If I'd stayed where I was he would have hit me so I ended up jumping onto the verge and slithering round. The driver was very appologetic and I was too stunned to be angry.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 13 November, 2012, 09:45:14 am
Something like this works very well indeed http://www.hivis.net/2218/Site-Equipment/BC-90-Brake-and-Clutch-Cleaner-Degreaser/500ml-Aerosol/ and a can lasts a long long while.

I don't have this, but similar: aerosol degreaser that doesn't require washing. Amazing how much improved braking you get, not sure I would go the WD40 route especially near disc pads.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 13 November, 2012, 09:54:40 am
I'll agree I wasn't thinking about disk brakes when I mentioned the WD40. I have used it on rims and canti/v-brake pads though and experienced both the braking improvement and the squealing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 13 November, 2012, 10:43:56 am
Got stopped at bow roundabout  by the met this morning for cycling on the pavement. There were about 8 officers stopping cyclists. Not sure if their operation was only directed at cyclists or not. Got away with a warning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 13 November, 2012, 10:49:01 am
witnessed a moto-officer writing a fine for a cyclist on london bridge. must have jumped a red light.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jimini on 13 November, 2012, 11:35:52 am
There were about ten coppers either side of the junction with Farringdon Road and Clerkenwell Road last night (where the new southbound road closure's in place). RLJers and people making illegal southbound turns were getting a stern talking to from what I could tell as I passed, but not sure if any tickets were being dished out or not.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CJBrewer on 13 November, 2012, 01:00:18 pm
Quote from: jimini on 13 November, 2012, 11:35:52 am
There were about ten coppers either side of the junction with Farringdon Road and Clerkenwell Road last night (where the new southbound road closure's in place). RLJers and people making illegal southbound turns were getting a stern talking to from what I could tell as I passed, but not sure if any tickets were being dished out or not.

 >:(
I almost never RLJ, Salmon cycle or, generally, make illegal turns. Or ride on the pavement.  But when I see ten coppers standing around stopping taxis from passing red lights, or booking buses for stopping in box junctions*, I might approve a bit more of this. 
 >:(

* and I see that happen EVERY DAY outside London Bridge station where the 521 turns right across the bridge...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 13 November, 2012, 01:04:10 pm
Quote from: Ham on 13 November, 2012, 09:25:00 am

Congrats, does that mean you are commuting to E17? (sounds unlikely but...)

Unlikely, but true :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 13 November, 2012, 01:09:02 pm
Quote from: CJBrewer on 13 November, 2012, 01:00:18 pm
>:(
I almost never RLJ, Salmon cycle or, generally, make illegal turns. Or ride on the pavement.  But when I see ten coppers standing around stopping taxis from passing red lights, or booking buses for stopping in box junctions*, I might approve a bit more of this. 
 >:(

* and I see that happen EVERY DAY outside London Bridge station where the 521 turns right across the bridge...

HC Pedant here. Isn't the one time you are allowed into a yellow box where the exit isn't clear is when you are turning right ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CJBrewer on 13 November, 2012, 02:03:55 pm
Quote from: hatler on 13 November, 2012, 01:09:02 pm
Quote from: CJBrewer on 13 November, 2012, 01:00:18 pm
>:(
I almost never RLJ, Salmon cycle or, generally, make illegal turns. Or ride on the pavement.  But when I see ten coppers standing around stopping taxis from passing red lights, or booking buses for stopping in box junctions*, I might approve a bit more of this. 
 >:(

* and I see that happen EVERY DAY outside London Bridge station where the 521 turns right across the bridge...

HC Pedant here. Isn't the one time you are allowed into a yellow box where the exit isn't clear is when you are turning right ?

I wouldn't know. You're the HC pedant ;-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 13 November, 2012, 02:41:46 pm
But that would mean having to go and check.    ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 13 November, 2012, 02:51:14 pm
The volume I had to play choons at to ignore the many and various noises from my bike was surely damaging to my ears.
I might have to wash it tonight, seeing as I've GAMI to fettle it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 13 November, 2012, 03:33:30 pm
Quote from: hatler on 13 November, 2012, 01:09:02 pm
HC Pedant here. Isn't the one time you are allowed into a yellow box where the exit isn't clear is when you are turning right ?

No, the exit should be clear, but it's your exit, not necessarily the one directly in front of you.  So, if you're turning right, and that exit is clear, you can pull into the box, even if the straight ahead direction is blocked (since you're not going in that direction).

Conversely, if you're turning right, and that exit is blocked, you shouldn't pull into the box, even if the straight ahead route is clear.

(Of course, on a bike, you can often squidge up the side of a car blocking the exit, so arguably your exit isn't blocked, but that obviously depends on the particular road, the traffic, and your intended direction of travel).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 13 November, 2012, 03:44:18 pm
Aha !

Where I am turning right and the only thing stopping me completing that manoeuvre is traffic heading in the direction from which I've just come (and the road to my right which I am intending to turn into is clear), I think I am allowed to pull into the yellow box whilst awaiting either a gap in the traffic or that traffic stops because their light has gone red. Yes ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 13 November, 2012, 03:56:08 pm
Quote
174
Box junctions. These have criss-cross yellow lines painted on the road (download ‘Road markings’ (PDF, 731KB)). You MUST NOT enter the box until your exit road or lane is clear. However, you may enter the box and wait when you want to turn right, and are only stopped from doing so by oncoming traffic, or by other vehicles waiting to turn right. At signalled roundabouts you MUST NOT enter the box unless you can cross over it completely without stopping.
Law TSRGD regs 10(1) & 29(2)

My Bold.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 13 November, 2012, 04:02:20 pm
Thank you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 13 November, 2012, 04:20:18 pm
I have a new proposal for adoption into road traffic legislation-

All road junctions are upgraded to traffic light controlled junctions.

Compliance with red lights is policed by each junction being overseen by a battalion of Terminator T-X (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/T-X) 'seek and educate' terminatrix cyborgs. Any road user who contravenes a red light without an active exemption transponder will be hunted down by the T-X and the driver/ rider captured. At the point of capture the T-X will activate its sanding disc morph functionality, sand all the skin from the body of the driver/ rider then return to the traffic light junction where the infraction occured. On arrival, the abraded offender will be rolled in a bed of salt adjacent to the junction. Once liberally dusted with salt, an endorsable fixed penalty notice will be issued where appropriate.

I think this proposal might have potential.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 13 November, 2012, 06:24:45 pm
Quote from: Ashaman42 on 12 November, 2012, 08:35:11 pm
ETA Just stuck with baby wipes in the end as I hadn't realised surgical spirit contained castor oil which i'm sure wouldn't be the best think on braking surfaces.

I can't believe I put think instead of thing. And the lack of a capital I on the I'm. Must have been tired.  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil W on 13 November, 2012, 09:12:19 pm
Quote from: Arno on 13 November, 2012, 10:43:56 am
Got stopped at bow roundabout  by the met this morning for cycling on the pavement. There were about 8 officers stopping cyclists. Not sure if their operation was only directed at cyclists or not. Got away with a warning.

They were stopping those driving their cars on the pavement as well :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil W on 13 November, 2012, 09:15:16 pm
I got too hot, back up to 12c. Back to short sleeve jersey tomorrow
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adam on 13 November, 2012, 09:40:56 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 12 November, 2012, 08:45:43 pm


In addition to which, I have been asked to come back tomorrow.


Well done.  That's always a good sign.

Here's to a long number of similar days. 

 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 13 November, 2012, 09:45:55 pm
Quote from: Adam on 13 November, 2012, 09:40:56 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 12 November, 2012, 08:45:43 pm


In addition to which, I have been asked to come back tomorrow.


Well done.  That's always a good sign.

Here's to a long number of similar days. 

 :thumbsup:

Cheers, buddy.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CJBrewer on 13 November, 2012, 11:56:55 pm
Quote from: fuzzy on 13 November, 2012, 04:20:18 pm
I have a new proposal for adoption into road traffic legislation-

All road junctions are upgraded to traffic light controlled junctions.

Compliance with red lights is policed by each junction being overseen by a battalion of Terminator T-X (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/T-X) 'seek and educate' terminatrix cyborgs. Any road user who contravenes a red light without an active exemption transponder will be hunted down by the T-X and the driver/ rider captured. At the point of capture the T-X will activate its sanding disc morph functionality, sand all the skin from the body of the driver/ rider then return to the traffic light junction where the infraction occured. On arrival, the abraded offender will be rolled in a bed of salt adjacent to the junction. Once liberally dusted with salt, an endorsable fixed penalty notice will be issued where appropriate.

I think this proposal might have potential.

It's quite a moderate response.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 14 November, 2012, 07:29:46 am
Quote from: Jurek on 13 November, 2012, 01:04:10 pm
Quote from: Ham on 13 November, 2012, 09:25:00 am

Congrats, does that mean you are commuting to E17? (sounds unlikely but...)

Unlikely, but true :D
E17- I used to work in Markhouse Rd and lived in Clapham.  1979 or thereabouts.  I used to ride up over London Bridge and through the city, then various ways north east to the Lea Bridge Rd, depending on my mood.  I quite enjoyed it, back then.  Not sure if I would now, though.  Too many bloomin'cyclists.   ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 14 November, 2012, 07:40:18 am
Indeed - poor Jurek is going to have to cross the Hipster Spice Route at some point
(http://i399.photobucket.com/albums/pp77/J1mCummins/HipsterSpiceRoute.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 14 November, 2012, 10:25:48 am
At bow roundabout this morning on the A11 London-bound an officer and a pcso again waiting at the traffic lights. A  female cyclist  being lectured about the illegality of  pavement cycling, and.... driver of an expensive looking black merck trying to explain to the pcso why its ok for him to be stopped in the middle of the advanced stop box....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 14 November, 2012, 10:40:55 am
Quote from: Arno on 14 November, 2012, 10:25:48 am
At bow roundabout this morning on the A11 London-bound an officer and a pcso again waiting at the traffic lights. A  female cyclist  being lectured about the illegality of  pavement cycling, and.... driver of an expensive looking black merck trying to explain to the pcso why its ok for him to be stopped in the middle of the advanced stop box....

Hurrah!

I was in a rush so rode to work via Stratford.  Spotted the plod as I went over the flyover and wondered what they were up to.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 14 November, 2012, 10:55:20 am
Thanks, Arno.  It's always good to hear when blind eyes regain their sight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 14 November, 2012, 08:43:19 pm
Lovely pair of commutes today, almost made up for how good a cycling day it looked like out of the window at work. When I could see a window that is as the two main rooms I work in are internal rooms  :'(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 14 November, 2012, 08:45:28 pm
Quote from: PaulR on 14 November, 2012, 07:40:18 am
Indeed - poor Jurek is going to have to cross the Hipster Spice Route at some point
(http://i399.photobucket.com/albums/pp77/J1mCummins/HipsterSpiceRoute.jpg)

How I wish I hadn't googled 'Hipster Spice Route'  ::-) :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 14 November, 2012, 09:22:04 pm
I rode up some unnecessary hills on the way home.  It was good.

And I've managed daily totals of 45, 50 & 47km this week.  My commute is 38km.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 14 November, 2012, 09:25:18 pm
You've hit your cyclinglogs target then, matey.  Well done.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 14 November, 2012, 09:27:29 pm
Yes.  Yes, I have.  Well spotted. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 14 November, 2012, 09:49:56 pm
Met a friend repairing a puncture and stopped for a catch up, which was nice.
Got my own puncture, which first showed itself with some rather iffy handling on a merge left, turn right while downhill, in the dark. But close enough to home to walk it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 14 November, 2012, 10:38:08 pm
How cool are your front lights on steady beam in this fog, was like Jean Michel Jarre on the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 15 November, 2012, 09:00:03 am
I thought I was the only person who remembers Jean Micheal Jarre.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 15 November, 2012, 09:24:45 am
Jean Michelle Jarre? I think I remember my grandfather telling me about him   :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 November, 2012, 09:43:38 am
Bill Bailey remembers Jean-Michel Jarre :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 15 November, 2012, 09:55:51 am
Just hit play on Equinoxe on the iPod, ah the sweet sound of french synth electronica.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 15 November, 2012, 10:00:07 am
How cool are your front lights on steady beam in this fog, was like McFly on the way home.

See, that doesn't even work, ageist bastards.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 15 November, 2012, 10:25:36 am
How cool are your front lights on steady beam in this fog, was like Hawkwind on the way home.

Any better?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 November, 2012, 10:29:10 am
My lights need an upgrade; I couldn't see Stacia. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 15 November, 2012, 01:15:21 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 15 November, 2012, 10:00:07 am
How cool are your front lights on steady beam in this fog, was like McFly on the way home.

See, that doesn't even work, ageist bastards.

I'm only teasing. As it happens, Rendez-Vous is on the top of the stack of CDs by my desk.  (I know, music recorded on a rotating disk, how quaint!)
Ron's Piece still brings a lump to the throat after all these years.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 15 November, 2012, 01:34:40 pm
Quote from: davelodwig on 15 November, 2012, 09:00:03 am
I thought I was the only person who remembers Jean Micheal Jarre.

You are not!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Froggie on 15 November, 2012, 01:42:10 pm
Quote from: PaulR on 15 November, 2012, 10:25:36 am
How cool are your front lights on steady beam in this fog, was like Hawkwind on the way home.

Any better?

For the true Hawks experience you need them on strobe, preferably 2 different lights, at different frequencies one of them at least one of those epiliptic inducing Chinese Cree things. 8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil W on 15 November, 2012, 08:53:03 pm
Quote from: MattH on 15 November, 2012, 09:24:45 am
Jean Michelle Jarre? I think I remember my grandfather telling me about him   :)

Got one of his albums on an lp in the loft. Also copied to iPod somewhere but unnamed..
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil W on 15 November, 2012, 08:55:07 pm
A car overtook and then failed to negotiate a corner on the country lane. Fortunately the hit no one and were also ok
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 15 November, 2012, 10:32:33 pm
A moped went through the bollards at the closed end of the road behind me, overtook, turned onto the footbridge onto the common and crossed the common on the cycle path. This just after an oncoming car had swerved into the cycle lane to avoid slowing down over a speed hump, while I waited to turn right (through the bollards).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 15 November, 2012, 10:58:15 pm
Thick fog condensing on my eyelashes this morning.
Or maybe the SAD has got me.

Super smooth chain.... But there's still a mudguard rub, damn it. Could hardly hear it under the choons though, thank dog for headphones.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 16 November, 2012, 08:33:03 am
Stopped to pick up about a dozen really large cable ties scattered along the side of the small heath bypass. Bet the motorists thought I was a bit mental.

I'm not mental right, picking up abandoned stuff from the roads edge that's normal isn't it?

Also found two o rings in the works car park, which is awesome because I've lost the one on my cycle computer and it's held on with an elastic band.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 16 November, 2012, 12:58:45 pm
Quote from: CJBrewer on 13 November, 2012, 01:00:18 pm
Quote from: jimini on 13 November, 2012, 11:35:52 am
There were about ten coppers either side of the junction with Farringdon Road and Clerkenwell Road last night (where the new southbound road closure's in place). RLJers and people making illegal southbound turns were getting a stern talking to from what I could tell as I passed, but not sure if any tickets were being dished out or not.

 >:(
I almost never RLJ, Salmon cycle or, generally, make illegal turns. Or ride on the pavement.  But when I see ten coppers standing around stopping taxis from passing red lights, or booking buses for stopping in box junctions*, I might approve a bit more of this. 
 >:(

* and I see that happen EVERY DAY outside London Bridge station where the 521 turns right across the bridge...

I watched a bus jump a red light in order to drive on to and block a box junction at Ludgate circus. There was a policeman right there, but he was only interested in booking cyclists.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 19 November, 2012, 09:21:44 pm
Wettest commute so far this Autumn. I arrived home very wet.  I am considering using a waterproof coat. My 14 year old Freestyle Taslan Goretex coat stopped being waterproof around eight years ago.  I still think it is the best cycling coat I ever bought and would buy another if it was still made.

I should add in Llanhran as I crossed over the railway a man was walking a dog. The dog must have been peckish so decided he wanted to eat me.  He lunged  desperately but his owner did not want a CTF snack to spoil the dodgs dinner so pulled hard on the lead.  I thought it was very funny watching the dogs paws slipping on the wet pavement as he desperately tried to reach me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 20 November, 2012, 10:27:44 am
Another PW. I blame the weary legs from the weekend. That, the monster headwind, choosing the wrong choons (too slow and not ripping it up enough) and erm... the rubbing I thought was mudguard turns out to be a front brake binding. That and the lard, obviously.
These things mostly happen when you're already late...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 November, 2012, 10:50:43 am
It was a serious wind last night, for sure.  I was very glad not to be living in the flat(ter)lands.

By contrast, there was no wind this morning, and we zoomed along to work.  I say there was no wind, but, curiously, for the part where I ride in the opposite direction, a huge headwind suddenly appeared.  Odd, that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 20 November, 2012, 11:16:34 am
A too close pass from an 04 Audi estate last night in the Kingston one way. I patted his rear window as he went past, cue a tirade of abuse and a sizeable lump of gob directed my way. He roared off but got caught at the next set of lights. I pulled round in front of him and held the palm of my hand up. He leapt out threatneing to knock me flat.

Cue a lively debate which slowly got easier. "I'm a cyclist you know", "Ever since Bradley Wiggins all you cyclists ..." "Mine's a  mountain bike"  "You were doing 25 and had the time to tap my window ?" "Yes I know you shouldn't be in the gutter"  "And I can see where with thin tyres you don't want to go over drain covers"

We parted on terms approaching amicable. Amazing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 November, 2012, 11:24:10 am
I had a dangerously close pass from a minicab.  I caught up with the driver, and he lowered the window and, though dismissive, he did seem to be apologising when I asked him to overtake properly or not at all.

Which made it all the more surprising when the first thing he did was to drive up to my back wheel and use his horn, then shoot past close enough for his door mirror to hit me.

'What did I just tell you?' I found myself calling out, like a frustrated teacher dealing with a lazy teenager, 'Overtake properly or not at all'. 

Then, of course, the car got caught in the queue again.  I went past.  He veered across towards me.  I turned down a bikes-only entrance.

Gone.

Sadly, I didn't take the trouble to memorise the VRN or the licence number.  Not that anything would have been done, despite minicabs having less (Masonic?) immunity than the black cab drivers.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 20 November, 2012, 12:00:00 pm
Where someone has deliberately and unequivocally tried to steer their vehicle into me (as appears to be the case above), I have real problems not considering that their wing mirror is fair game, but only if there is an obvious and fool proof escape route.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 November, 2012, 12:05:46 pm
The door mirror in question did get folded back, but he wasn't using it anyway (leastways, not for optical purposes, more as a weapon)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 20 November, 2012, 12:27:57 pm
It must be the season for Police sting operations, there were two on the way in, one at Thornton Heath Pond, and the other on the Streatham gyratory.  I missed the spotter at Thornton Heath Pond, but at the next one there was an officer, minus his hi-vis loitering around the corner prior to where the mass of them were waiting.  Obviously not use ANPRS, so looking for something else.  I wonder what they can identify by eye, unless he was just looking for obviously iffy vehicles, and there was an ANPRS camera hidden away somewhere else.

Neither seemed very busy by the time I went past, there was one car pulled up, with a shrill voice emanating from inside, and a patient policeman, obviously having to deal with a lot of "righteous" indignation.  I didn't spot any car transporters, but there's normally one parked around the corner somewhere nearby.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 20 November, 2012, 12:43:53 pm
Today started with the unjoy of putting on the not quite dry cycling clothing. It soon got wet again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 20 November, 2012, 12:57:37 pm
Quote from: TimO on 20 November, 2012, 12:27:57 pm
I wonder what they can identify by eye, unless he was just looking for obviously iffy vehicles, and there was an ANPRS camera hidden away somewhere else.

No seat belt. Mobile phone use. VEL issues. Obvious construction and use offences. "Gut Feeling". Doing make up. Shaving.
The spotter that you probably missed could have been ANPR/ Speed detection device equiped as well.

You would be surprised what can be seen when you are watching.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 20 November, 2012, 01:08:56 pm
Quote from: fuzzy on 20 November, 2012, 12:57:37 pm
Quote from: TimO on 20 November, 2012, 12:27:57 pm
I wonder what they can identify by eye, unless he was just looking for obviously iffy vehicles, and there was an ANPRS camera hidden away somewhere else.

No seat belt. Mobile phone use. VEL issues. Obvious construction and use offences. "Gut Feeling". Doing make up. Shaving.
The spotter that you probably missed could have been ANPR/ Speed detection device equiped as well.

You would be surprised what can be seen when you are watching.

I'm slowly learning this from my time calling plates and deciding which drivers are the dodgy ones to watch. The cameras let you look back and see in hindsight just how obvious all that stuff is. People often comment on the videos how quickly I can spot stuff, and how quickly I can call the plates.

I can only imagine how much better a trained and experienced traffic officer is.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 20 November, 2012, 02:13:44 pm
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 20 November, 2012, 12:43:53 pm
Today started with the unjoy of putting on the not quite dry cycling clothing. It soon got wet again.

Tumble driers and servers are you friends. ;D

I could be a bit stuffed when I finish getting our new servers working, because at some point I'll have to power off the old server, and it's by far and away the best place to dry clothes at work!  (The new servers are more sensibly located in our IT bods computer area, with proper racking, and cooling, and a few thousand friends!).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 20 November, 2012, 02:58:21 pm
Quote from: TimO on 20 November, 2012, 02:13:44 pm
I could be a bit stuffed when I finish getting our new servers working, because at some point I'll have to power off the old server, and it's by far and away the best place to dry clothes at work!

Take a wander over to your Engineering Department and find the wind tunnel lab. Someone tries to keep rigging a washing line inside our big tunnel  :demon: Just make sure your pegs are good quality - wouldn't want to think what would happen to all your Rapha kit if it went through the main fan  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 20 November, 2012, 03:21:24 pm
Quote from: SlowCoach on 20 November, 2012, 02:58:21 pm
Quote from: TimO on 20 November, 2012, 02:13:44 pm
I could be a bit stuffed when I finish getting our new servers working, because at some point I'll have to power off the old server, and it's by far and away the best place to dry clothes at work!
Take a wander over to your Engineering Department and find the wind tunnel lab. Someone tries to keep rigging a washing line inside our big tunnel  :demon: Just make sure your pegs are good quality - wouldn't want to think what would happen to all your Rapha kit if it went through the main fan  ;D

Rapha kit!  How much do you think they pay people in the Physics department. ;D

My kit is mostly Endura and YACF (aka Owayo).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 20 November, 2012, 04:35:17 pm
Quote from: TimO on 20 November, 2012, 03:21:24 pm
Rapha kit!  How much do you think they pay people in the Physics department. ;D

My kit is mostly Endura and YACF (aka Owayo).
Posh git. Mine is mostly Aldi
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 20 November, 2012, 04:37:45 pm
Oi mrcharly! That washing up liquid on paper towels trick for cleaning your rims and brake pads really works. Thank you very much!

I was using wet wipes before, and although good, not nearly as good as your method. I'll be passing that forwards. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 20 November, 2012, 05:17:53 pm
Had my first experience of the A24 Morden debacle today. The twunts have decided to make the non mandatory 'cycle lane' mandatory by widening it by about six inches with a nice slippery solid white line.  Needless to say I'll be ignoring it, the new line is right where your wheels want to be in a strong secondary.  Utter shite.

http://tinyurl.com/cz6e28h (http://tinyurl.com/cz6e28h)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 November, 2012, 05:20:58 pm
I used part of that last week, but I don't know it well enough to recognise the changes.  It's pretty crap.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 20 November, 2012, 05:49:55 pm
Second visit from the fairy in a week, glass sliver, I can't think of a way of tweaking the commute that avoids smashy pubs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 20 November, 2012, 09:28:24 pm
Complicated domestic stuffs required me to drive in this morning. Bah!

But I took a bike, and managed a ride home  :thumbsup:
So now committed to ride back in tomorrow, regardless of the weather.  :-\

All this because I'm being challenged on bikejournal by someone of this parish.
I'm currently snuggled comfortably between Chris and fboab  :P
and I'm going to struggle to keep it that way!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 20 November, 2012, 09:36:41 pm
Astoudingly, I didn't get wet.
Rode in under glowering heavy skies, but not more than random drizzle.  Rode home at 5 as it stopped raining.

I win!
Title: Re: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 20 November, 2012, 09:38:35 pm
Quote from: Feanor on 20 November, 2012, 09:28:24 pm
I'm currently snuggled comfortably between Chris and fboab  :P
and I'm going to struggle to keep it that way!
Gooseberry!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 20 November, 2012, 09:40:38 pm
Quote from: Feanor on 20 November, 2012, 09:28:24 pm
I'm currently snuggled comfortably between Chris and fboab  :P

Oi!  >:(

 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 21 November, 2012, 03:09:22 pm
Had to get in v. early today dark, wet, windy, roads full of freshly dislodged leaves and pothole hugging puddles.  It had a strange timeless beauty to it all. 

Need to get a new liner for the pannier, bottom end of the lap top was slightly damp
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil W on 21 November, 2012, 06:27:42 pm
Recharging rear led battery tonight before heading back out on club ride. It rained so hard on the commute some water had got into the reflector bit. Now all dry and reattached to bike.  Rain was meant to stop before I came home #weatherforecast
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 21 November, 2012, 08:29:57 pm
After the soaking earlier, a fast dry run home. Got overtaken on the Embankment by a roadie in all black Ninja kit but with a powerful rear light. I was doing 24-25mph and he shot past me as though I was going backwards.

For some reason, lots of noticeably considerate driving tonight  :thumbsup:

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 21 November, 2012, 08:38:11 pm
A bit wet on the way in but not as heavy rain as when the alarm went off. Kit mostly dry bar my gloves and shoes by home time which was a plus, though I had taken spare kit in with me in case. Of course I left my spare gloves at home though  ::-)

A fair old slog into the headwind for the way home though, was too hot too in my jacket and it wasn't raining but didn't want to stop to take it off (visions of it escaping and flying away) so sweltered my way home, except for cold toes.

I've been gesturing and swearing at idiots too much lately so tried to stay a bit more zen today. Managed it in the morning but by the third driver just not turning their full beam off on the unlit lanes on the way home I slipped a bit.

Was rather hungry when I got home but can't eat the slow cookered lamb stew till my other half gets home, made do with two rounds of toast topped with homemade jam a co-worker gave me, delicious.

Think I might wimp out of tomorrow's commute as it's looking like 30+mph winds all day  :hand:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil W on 21 November, 2012, 08:49:59 pm
I rode through several temporary lakes. Cars behind didn't seem to mind waiting whilst I went down middle of road through shallowest bits. Guess they were using me as a depth gauge for each lake before proceeding 8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 21 November, 2012, 09:32:30 pm
Missed the rain   :thumbsup:
Stopped to change the batteries in my main light, which improved things on the unlit bits.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 21 November, 2012, 09:33:35 pm
This morning: crossed the 9,000km barrier.  Now less than 1,000km until I hit my target for the year.

This evening: came off the bike, scraping up a knee and bashed an elbow.  As I approached a pair of mini roundabouts a car approached from the opposite direction at high speed.  No idea which way the car would go so started to take evasive action - and hit wet ironworks.  The driver found the time to slow down and stare at me as he drove by, but said nothing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 21 November, 2012, 09:36:39 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 21 November, 2012, 09:33:35 pm
This morning: crossed the 9,000km barrier.  Now less than 1,000km until I hit my target for the year.

This evening: came off the bike, scraping up a knee and bashed an elbow.  As I approached a pair of mini roundabouts a car approached from the opposite direction at high speed.  No idea which way the car would go so started to take evasive action - and hit wet ironworks.  The driver found the time to slow down and stare at me as he drove by, but said nothing.

Bummer.
Hope you're ok.
Time for that 14yo?
Whisky, lest you (or anyone) thought anything else!!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 November, 2012, 09:49:45 pm
Glad you're OKish. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 21 November, 2012, 09:53:23 pm
16yo, please!

Bike is fine, little claret shed, prepared for tomorrow's soreness.

As I left work I convinced myself to have a healthy supper.  By the time I made it home it changed to something with chips washed down with beer.  Comfort food FTW!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 21 November, 2012, 10:07:51 pm
If there's ever a day that justifies comfort food then this is it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 21 November, 2012, 10:45:06 pm
I played the role of the plucky cyclist battling the wind (which, incidentally, was a headwind both ways) and its friend the horizontal rain. The Lake Of Pigs had become a chain of lakes, and every lane had chutney and or sand and mud tide lines. Not quite a PW, but definitely the slowest day since records began. Obviously when stopped to cross the main road a convoy of Lorries passed, which deposited additional muddy spray. Roll on spring.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 21 November, 2012, 10:48:49 pm
Sounds horrid.

I'd reccomend you put the bike away till spring.

Just chuck it in the back of the garage wet, it'll be fine for a few months.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 21 November, 2012, 10:58:43 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 21 November, 2012, 09:53:23 pm
By the time I made it home it changed to something with chips washed down with beer.  Comfort food FTW!

XL'ent!
 :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 21 November, 2012, 11:57:01 pm
Wet.  Very very wet.

And I think I  actually got a very slight contact to a pannier from a passing HGV this morning.  I had just wheeled my bike out from the school playground onto the road, checked behind and set off.  Unfortunately a foot slipped on a pedal so it was, in fairness, a bit slowly.  The HGV passed the parked coach on the road several metres behind me and then pulled back in for the pinch point.  Despite my presence.  I braked.  By the time his back wheels were 2 or 3 metres in front of me they were also on the double yellows.

I swore, quite loudly.

Hope they hadn't started loading the kids onto the coach by then, or they all might have heard "Miss" say something she really isn't supposed to....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 November, 2012, 05:54:55 am
Nasty.  Glad 'Miss' is OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 22 November, 2012, 06:08:29 am
Quote from: Andrij on 21 November, 2012, 09:33:35 pm
This morning: crossed the 9,000km barrier.  Now less than 1,000km until I hit my target for the year.

This evening: came off the bike, scraping up a knee and bashed an elbow.  As I approached a pair of mini roundabouts a car approached from the opposite direction at high speed.  No idea which way the car would go so started to take evasive action - and hit wet ironworks.  The driver found the time to slow down and stare at me as he drove by, but said nothing
This has happened to me a couple of times.  Makes me more angry than their causing the off in the first place. 
Pamper yourself a bit, Andrij.  And take care of those scraped and bashed bits.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 22 November, 2012, 06:28:43 am
Frightening, Crinkles.  Glad you're OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jimini on 22 November, 2012, 10:01:37 am
Going up from Elephant & Castle this morning to St. Georges Circus, en route to Blackfriars Road / Bridge. Lights go red. Two of us stop. Twelve others RLJ.

Sometimes I wonder why I bother defending us cyclists when I encounter situations like that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 22 November, 2012, 11:12:59 am
Back on the bike this morning.  In spite of a nasty headwind all was well.  Until...

Cycling along a narrow street (two-way, but not nearly wide enough) with horrible surface - black cab zooms past be with around 4 inches to spare.  I bellow a not nice word and gesture.  No surprise, I soon catch up with the vehicle in question.  The driver had a go at me because I was using earphones, to which I replied I clearly heard his vehicle coming up behind me.  (Obviously he thought I should have moved to the kerb to let him through.)  He then had the audacity to complain I was being abusive.  ???  He took over a ton of metal moving at 30kph+ within inches of me, but my shout was abusive?!?  Oh well, I take comfort in the fact that I was in the office half a kilometre down the road before he made it through the next set of lights (4 sets between where we had our 'conversation' and I leave the main road).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 22 November, 2012, 11:15:07 am
Crikey Andrij.  Not a great commuting week, is it?  Hopefully all the bad stuff has come together in a statistical cluster stylee and you'll have an incident-free winter now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 22 November, 2012, 11:33:56 am
The last few weeks have been fine, just a rough 12 hours.  I'm more stressed about work than cycling at the moment - getting on the bike still helps me relax. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 22 November, 2012, 12:05:25 pm
November is windy again this year it seems. It took me over 40 mins to do 6 miles to work straight into it this morning. It must have been strong (and was - 38mph with over 50mph gusts straight off the sea according to our site weather station) as I didn't really notice the rain that was soaking my waterproofs at the same time.

Please can I have a day without a stinking headwind on the way to work? I suppose the ride home is getting a decent push though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 22 November, 2012, 12:14:20 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 22 November, 2012, 12:05:25 pm
November is windy again this year it seems. It took me over 40 mins to do 6 miles to work straight into it this morning. It must have been strong (and was - 38mph with over 50mph gusts straight off the sea according to our site weather station) as I didn't really notice the rain that was soaking my waterproofs at the same time.

Please can I have a day without a stinking headwind on the way to work? I suppose the ride home is getting a decent push though.

If I'm slogging into it on the way home as well I know whose fault it is now!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 22 November, 2012, 12:28:59 pm
Good grief, I've just walked out at lunch time.  The wind is so strong that walking was actually difficult. I'm really not looking forward to battling into it on the way home tonight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 November, 2012, 01:28:44 pm
Fierce wind as I rode between meetings this lunchtime.  And this was in relatively sheltered central London, so I can only imagine how it's affecting more rural areas.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 22 November, 2012, 01:33:59 pm
Wind's dropped here now :(

Still raining heavily.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 November, 2012, 01:39:15 pm
Crikey, Andrij, I hope that's the last of it now, and the commutes now are just peachy
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 22 November, 2012, 02:40:32 pm
"what pedals would be most suitable to cycle in high heel stilettos with slippery thin leather sole?.." - i was thinking after seeing a young lady in long black undone coat, mini-skirt and high heels riding a dutch bike jump red light past a group of cyclists waiting for green.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 22 November, 2012, 02:43:42 pm
Now that's a really good question.  Even the rubber pedals on my shopper are rubbish with my nice heels.  Riding fixed would be even more difficult.  It's hard to see how they justify such slippery materials on pedals.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 22 November, 2012, 02:51:01 pm
Toe clips, but lined with something unlikely to damage the shoe?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 22 November, 2012, 03:02:23 pm
Like

(http://www.cyclelicio.us/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/cleats-on-boots-500x331.jpg)

or

(http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lzgy3hkruC1qfwekho1_500.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 22 November, 2012, 03:11:01 pm
Cycling across Clapham Common this morning, an oldish chap going in the opposite direction had a fairly standard looking Burley child trailer on the back.  At least I thought that was what it was.  When I passed him, there was a Labrador/Retriever lying down in the back. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 22 November, 2012, 04:50:37 pm
Just had a quick look at the rain radar and saw what is about to hit Brum.
Shut down computer, changed and fled.
Now dry and in the pub.
Ok. That means I'll get drenched for the last mile,  but you can't have everything, can you?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 22 November, 2012, 05:15:30 pm
Barakta and I walked from Aston uni to Mordor Central about an hour ago.

"Ah, looks like the weather hasn't hit yet" says I, and then "If we had bikes, we could just ride home from here."

As we rounded the corner and got hit by the full force of the wind vortex I decided that I didn't actually want to be dodging brummie traffic on two wheels after all.  Cross City Line was horrid, but we did at least avoid the drenching.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 22 November, 2012, 06:43:59 pm
Garr!  I forgot what happens under the Bournville Station bridge in this sort of weather.  Not quite BB deep as it can do yet, but already pedal stroke deep.  Oh well, my feet were already pretty wet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 22 November, 2012, 06:51:48 pm
I think the roads were flooded more than they were clear on my way home. I'm pretty certain I got to the BB and that's on a high BB hybrid frame. Very close to submerging the hubs.

I do seem to have washed off most of the mud that was on there from the rest of the week's commutes though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 November, 2012, 07:14:40 pm
Rather than ride directly into the teeth of a most unfriendly wind, while trying to avoid Britain's densest collection of idiot drivers, I shall be taking a bit of a back route.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 22 November, 2012, 07:59:39 pm
I'd like to thank all those drivers for their unmitigated courtesy towards this wobbly, windswept cyclist as he made his way home this evening. It's always nice when struggling into the hell's teeth of a wind from the blasted steppes of Outer Croydonia to be overtaken with such a generous amount of space, for drivers to say 'no, you go first' rather than just cutting me up, and generally just to witness such spontaneous consideration for the wellbeing of another human being on a such grim evening.

Well, I would have liked to thank someone. Anyone, really. Sadly, it seems that moment someone climbs into their car, any semblance of humanity is stripped away to be replaced by an unassailable urge to be first to the next junction, the next traffic light, the next car bumper. Nothing else seems to matter. Jeez, what a complete twatshower.

On the plus side, I did for the length of one entire street get a tailwind. It was glorious. I flew like a flatulent angel. Into a wall, it seemed, when I turned the next corner.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: red marley on 22 November, 2012, 08:37:07 pm
Being an east Londoner working in central London, I had a bit of a battle with the wind cycling to work this morning. But at least it was dry and not too busy for some reason.

On the way back this evening I flew home, arriving before I left.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 22 November, 2012, 10:27:00 pm
After lots of warnings about 20mph headwinds, with 45mph gusts, the ride home wasn't too bad, not really much difference from normal. I could have done without the drizzle in the face for the second half, but otherwise not too bad, and the temperatures are stupidly mild at the moment.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Morrisette on 22 November, 2012, 11:10:39 pm
Well, I got changed, got on the bike, rode round the corner out of the car park and then found myself blown in front of a car on the other side of the road. Sod that! I got the bus. Sorry guys. We seem to have a stray hurricane.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil W on 22 November, 2012, 11:12:01 pm
Cycling into the teeth of a gale tonight. Should have suspected something when I cycled into work and was cruising on the flat at 29 mph without anymore effort than normal.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 November, 2012, 11:15:36 pm
Took an hour and a half to cover what I normally do in an hour.  Fierce gusts like being punched, and I nearly got taken out by a flying sign.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 23 November, 2012, 08:50:12 am
Absolutely stunning cloud formation at around 6.15 am in London's eastern sky.  The glow of the soon to rise sun had lightened up one half of the sky to a cold,glistening, pale, bluey grey, while a solid mass of black rain cloud was slowly drifting away across the other half, leaving an effect at its edge reminiscent of black ink dispersing in water.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Juan Martín on 23 November, 2012, 08:53:03 am
‘morning Joan. Eleven minutes late, power problems between Tonbridge and Hildenborough </Reggie>.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 23 November, 2012, 09:10:01 am
What a difference a day makes.  Today's ride in via the longer convoluted way was just beautiful.  (For certain Birmingham values of beautiful)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 23 November, 2012, 09:31:48 am
(http://sphotos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/302867_10151233506196839_975253426_n.jpg)

 :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RJ on 23 November, 2012, 09:59:01 am
Endured a low-speed bike-car interface.  No damage.  Post-school-run SMIDSY* that would have been avoided if I hadn't vocalised my frustration at being crept-out-just-in-front-of, encouraging the (startled) driver to brake, which I hadn't really anticipated  :-[ , (though this did tend to confirm that their driving was consistent with a certain degree of stupidity, as I had just rather loudly suggested).  Driver was mortified and I felt guilty the rest of the way to work.  :-\

Other lessons learned:

* - driver looked and crept out anyway;
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 23 November, 2012, 11:10:07 am
I thought I was doing really well as I turned my back on Bacon Sandwiches from Diss station caff. Unfortunately 10 minutes on St. Owmarket station meant I succumbed to their rolls. Damn.

Come the new year (ish) I'll be doing train-assist every day. I really really really hope Needham Market has no station shops.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 23 November, 2012, 11:41:16 am
Not nearly as windy today as yesterday, and no 'discussions' with taxis, so me happy. :)

To the young woman with a well-formed posterior who I briefly followed this morning: consider some mudguards.  That muddy stripe up the middle of your backside is a bit :sick:, especially first thing in the morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 23 November, 2012, 11:43:34 am
Quote from: Andrij on 23 November, 2012, 11:41:16 am
To the young woman with a well-formed posterior who I briefly followed this morning: consider some mudguards.  That muddy stripe up the middle of your backside is a bit :sick:, especially first thing in the morning.

Are you sure it was mud? There's a lot of bugs about at the moment you know...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 23 November, 2012, 11:50:26 am
Quote from: Chris S on 23 November, 2012, 11:43:34 am
Quote from: Andrij on 23 November, 2012, 11:41:16 am
To the young woman with a well-formed posterior who I briefly followed this morning: consider some mudguards.  That muddy stripe up the middle of your backside is a bit :sick:, especially first thing in the morning.

Are you sure it was mud? There's a lot of bugs about at the moment you know...

It continued up her jacket.  If it wasn't mud I hope she was on her way to a hospital!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 23 November, 2012, 01:47:32 pm
Not commuting, I was actually on the way to buy a whistling kettle, but... I was overtaken away from the lights by a fast Mamil type. He rocketed off, got stuck behind a refuse truck, and then went straight over a zebra crossing where a blind person - with white stick - was waiting to cross. I stopped, caught up with him anyway and overtook him on the next hill. What was he wearing, this white-stick-not-seeing be-lycraed chap? Livestrong three-quarters...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CJBrewer on 23 November, 2012, 03:16:38 pm
Just nearly hit a cycling pensioner while driving - he was riding in a dangerous cycle lane on a small roundabout, that puts you right in the blind spot of drivers...
https://maps.google.co.uk/maps?ie=UTF-8&q=street+map+google+east+grinstead&fb=1&gl=uk&hq=google&hnear=0x47df58434716977f:0xbbc01566a55eaa4f,East+Grinstead,+West+Sussex&ei=lP2vUOTMN-HK0QXXtYGoBA&ved=0CLABELYD
Note the insane cycle lane that encourages you to ride right across all the cars' path...  >:(

I was waiting to turn left as he rode past me on the left into my path. Stopped to have a friendly word and to apologise, and explained why the cycle lane is sometimes the worst place to be. Suggested he take the lane instead... He claimed I wasn't indicating (fair enough if I wasn't... But silly to trust that!) but that after 60 years cycling he knows what he's doing. ::-) oh well. No conflict and no car horns used

Yesterday I was nearly left-hooked by a taxi turning across the stupidly designed  CS7 at Southwark Bridge Road/ Marshalsea. He was indicating as he drew alongside and we passed an amber light together. His horn was used and verbal abuse was traded... Taxi driver  impatience combined with me foolishly using blue tarmac...  :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 23 November, 2012, 04:02:41 pm
Quote from: boabacca on 23 November, 2012, 11:10:07 am
I really really really hope Needham Market has no station shops.

From what I recall, Needham Market has no station anything!  Even stopping trains are a rare sight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 23 November, 2012, 07:42:21 pm
Couple of ludicrously close passes.  Ah, the B1228....

But also a plenty of thoughtful considerate drivers sharing nicely.  And no hip pain!  That's the furthest I've ridden in a day without it hurting for weeks.  Little victories.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Karla on 23 November, 2012, 09:14:38 pm
I beat the guy from Crinkly's bike shop in a commuter race  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 23 November, 2012, 09:20:28 pm
What?  To the back of the shop and back?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 23 November, 2012, 09:32:17 pm
Cut up by a convoy of souped up Novas on the Roundabout in Thornaby tonight. Othereise lots of consideate drivers. My first commute since they changed my wrking hours and that 20 minute difference means it's so much jusier on the roads. The nemesis roundabout was just awful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 23 November, 2012, 09:34:42 pm
Nice cup of tea, LG?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Karla on 23 November, 2012, 09:52:21 pm
Quote from: Basil on 23 November, 2012, 09:20:28 pm
What?  To the back of the shop and back?

Nope, our paths coincided on the way home, from one set of red lights to the next. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 24 November, 2012, 09:08:19 am
Coming home this morning was, er, interesting.  I walked most gingerly to my bike locker as I realised the rain overnight had now frozzed into a slick of ice coating everything - roads, cars, all covered in a carapace of hard black ice.  My fingers started to nip in my gloves before I even unlocked the bike.  I toyed with phoning Crusty to come and get me, but then I remembered my counsellor Alex saying in his lovely accent, 'Every time you avoid what you fear, you make it worse next time.  And every time you face your fear, and overcome it, you make it easier next time."  I've ridden home in these conditions a hundred times.  Time to do it again.

I walked my bike to the bit of site road that had been driven over sufficient to make an ice-free path in the secondary line, and once I hit the main ish roads things were mostly OK.  I was still riding quite slowly though, in places standing water in potholes and puddles was still frozen and with the Saturday morning numpties making close passes I had no choice but to ride over them.  I mounted the cycle path in my usual place and realised that was a mistake PDQ, and with pictures of poor Eccentrica Gallumbits in my head I walked my bike back onto the road where at least the surface was rideable, even if the natives are hostile. 

Half a mile from home I found myself saying 'This is bad.  This is really bad."  I was riding on thick black ice.  I used the curve in the road to make a line to the grass verge, where I dismounted and walked the rest of the way home.  The bike was sliding all over the place on the road and the path.  Horribly icy.

I did it though.  A point to me, I think.  Getting a lift tonight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 24 November, 2012, 09:49:56 am
Glad you are safe, Linda but riding on ice- please, just don't do it!  I'm not sure that's what your counsellor had in mind!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 24 November, 2012, 10:22:51 am
Well done LindaG, but if you are going to ride in those conditions I really would recommend spiked tyres like Marathon winters.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 24 November, 2012, 10:42:01 am
I iz ver' proud of my friend. But yeah, marathon winters pls.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 24 November, 2012, 02:04:10 pm
+4.  There's fear and there's broken hips.  And besides, so much better to laugh in the face of fear when armed with a portable gravel driveway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wendy on 24 November, 2012, 02:07:11 pm
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 24 November, 2012, 10:42:01 am
I iz ver' proud of my friend. But yeah, marathon winters pls.

+1!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 24 November, 2012, 04:29:59 pm
Thanks for the advice guys. When I've been at work all night I'll always take the quickest route to my lovely bed. At the time it's my only priority. In hindsight, somewhat foolhardy perhaps. Glad I didn't wimp out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CJBrewer on 24 November, 2012, 06:06:37 pm
Quote from: Lindagordinho on 24 November, 2012, 04:29:59 pm
Thanks for the advice guys. When I've been at work all night I'll always take the quickest route to my lovely bed. At the time it's my only priority. In hindsight, somewhat foolhardy perhaps. Glad I didn't wimp out.

Best to end up in your own bed rather than one in t'hospital ;-)

Ordered some 20" MW's for my folder after two winters using them on the commuting hybrid. Great tyres, although they don't work brilliantly in heavy snow and certainly not in slush.  Great for confidence on frozen puddles and slippery mud/leaves though.

Biggest problem -- remembering not to trackstand or accelerate/brake too hard which tends to rip the studs out
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 24 November, 2012, 07:57:04 pm
Quote from: Lindagordinho on 24 November, 2012, 09:08:19 am
with pictures of poor Eccentrica Gallumbits in my head
Sorry.  :D

I'm done with the bike till winter's over. I'm not risking it again.  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 25 November, 2012, 12:16:37 pm
Quote from: Lindagordinho on 24 November, 2012, 09:08:19 am
'Every time you avoid what you fear, you make it worse next time.  And every time you face your fear, and overcome it, you make it easier next time."

So, so true, but there is a limit, as I think you have worked out :)

BTW if you want the loan of some winter tyres, give me a shout, I have a set I bought off IZ, but I don't think I will be using them this year (too small for the Inbred and too big for the fixie and the Ridley.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 25 November, 2012, 10:12:57 pm
Friday was interesting.

I leave my bike in a courtyard behind the office.  Sometimes I walk through it on my way to and from external meetings. So imagine my disappointment on returning from a meeting at about 3pm to notice that while the bike rack as still there, my bike was not. 

Entering the office, resigned to the pointless police call, I was accosted by our IT bod who said "don't worry, your bike is safe".  Turned out that in my hurry I had not locked it properly, one of the caretakers of an adjacent building had noticed and recognised the bike because I see him most mornings and always say hello, and so had taken it into his store room to keep it safe.  What a star!  A large box of chocolate biscuits will be heading his way tomorrow!

Sadly, my good mood was ruined on the way home when a National Express coach tried to run me off the road in Bermondsey.  A letter has gone to the chief exec.  I've asked for the driver's details and a copy of the coach's CCTV film. Depending on the response, I may post further details but suffice it to say it was the most frightening thing I've experienced in some 30 years of cycling in London.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 November, 2012, 10:20:47 pm
Pleased to hear someone cared enough to look after your bike :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 26 November, 2012, 09:19:38 am
Quote from: Lindagordinho on 24 November, 2012, 09:08:19 am
I did it though.  A point to me, I think.  Getting a lift tonight.
10 points at least, I think
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 26 November, 2012, 09:22:45 am
Wet. Not quite PW, but pretty poor. Wet, windy, and knobbly tyres.. I'm on the tandem as I have No1Daughter to collect later. I like freewheeling. I'm looking forward to a bit of extra ooomph from a passenger on the way home, but given how much No1Daughter loves all things cycling, I'm not holding my breath...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 November, 2012, 10:41:34 am
Wet.  Very wet at times.  But all wet.

Can I just take the time to remind other bicyclists that mudguards are available to purchase from most good bike shops?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 26 November, 2012, 08:36:43 pm
A little damp out there today.
Looking at the forecast for tomorrow, it looks like a good day to be a 'sarf Londoner.
Those of us with a southward morning commute however....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 November, 2012, 08:41:20 pm
I rode most of the way home, but it does feel like I swam from Mitcham, as there was so much rain it felt like I was underwater.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 26 November, 2012, 09:50:48 pm
I made the amateur (moronic) error of taking a 700c x 18-23 tube, for, erm, a 700c 32mm tyre.

90 minutes walk home. That'll learn ya.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 26 November, 2012, 10:06:18 pm
Quote from: boabacca on 26 November, 2012, 09:50:48 pm
I made the amateur (moronic) error of taking a 700c x 18-23 tube, for, erm, a 700c 32mm tyre.

90 minutes walk home. That'll learn ya.

Why was that a problem? I use skinny tubes in wide tyres frequently and have never had any issues ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 26 November, 2012, 10:08:08 pm
Quote from: boabacca on 26 November, 2012, 09:50:48 pm
I made the amateur (moronic) error of taking a 700c x 18-23 tube, for, erm, a 700c 32mm tyre.

90 minutes walk home. That'll learn ya.
I often do that.  Doesn't seem to be a problem.

did you enjoy the walk?  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 26 November, 2012, 10:38:55 pm
It was fine, bone dry and sunny on my commute today, both ways. Unfortunately that weather snippet belonged to Barcelona, not London. By some astonishing piece of incompetence, I was in London. Mind you, so is my place of employment so a small, useful coincidence.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 27 November, 2012, 08:41:57 am
last night was wetter than a wet thing taking time out at the bottom of a pond. I also suffered a visitation though it was slow enough that i could ignore it and get home. The regular psst- psst- psst- psst of slowly escaping suspension was annoying though.

This morning, my clock went off at 5:50 as opposed to 6:15 ???

That turned out to be a right result however. I donned the damp wet weather gear and rode in through wet roads but no rainfall. As I got out of the shower however, a colleague entered the changing room resembling a very drowned rat :thumbsup:

( :thumbsup: is cos I missed the precipitation, not 'cos colleague resembled a drowned rat).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 November, 2012, 09:38:42 am
I felt very cold this morning getting up, which is unusual for me.  Even when dressed in most of my outdoor layers, I wasn't warming up, so I wasn't looking forward to heading out the door.  But I did, of course, about five minutes later than planned, and set off into the rain.

Wet.  Rather wet.

Almost five months on, I'm still very wary of wet roads and ironwork, so I was probably a bit overcautious, but I made decent progress, even with rain pouring down my brow into my eyes.  I just trudged on.

Because of the conditions, all the other motorists and cyclists in South London were being cautious and courteous.

Sorry, about that.  No idea how that sentence got in there.  Were they bollox!  There was an outbreak of car dancing which I thought might turn into jiving, but I got past all the nonsense.

Still drying out now.  There's a wet patch on my chair :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tom_e on 27 November, 2012, 09:48:43 am
It was half-dark and the roads were full of leaf-chutney, and I couldn't find the right gloves.  But I rode my bike.  :D

Visited the doc yesterday (6 weeks since fracture) and got clearance to use it sensibly.  Elbow seems ok on smooth surfaces, a bit sensitive to bumps.  Might alternate bent and upright to strengthen it up, since it should be a non-issue on the bent.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 27 November, 2012, 09:49:20 am
Quote from: Basil on 26 November, 2012, 10:08:08 pm
Quote from: boabacca on 26 November, 2012, 09:50:48 pm
I made the amateur (moronic) error of taking a 700c x 18-23 tube, for, erm, a 700c 32mm tyre.

90 minutes walk home. That'll learn ya.
I often do that.  Doesn't seem to be a problem.

did you enjoy the walk?  ???
Even less now I know I could've ridden. I didn't even try putting it in, tbh. Doh.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 27 November, 2012, 09:50:38 am
Rode in a long way round today to make miles up towards a target.  It might seem like a dismal thing to do, commuting in November rain just to reach a monthly target for miles but I found it very liberating, a sort of metaphorical two finger to the world, not that the world needs another pair of two fingers, and most of the things that bother me at the moment are of my own making, so the two fingers might really be pointed back at me.....

Nevertheless enjoyed the Basingstoke - Henley - Reading commute today, especially descending past block gridlocked traffic on Caversham Hill  ;D ;D

Rain is a lubricant for the soul.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 November, 2012, 09:51:15 am
Quote from: boabacca on 27 November, 2012, 09:49:20 am
Quote from: Basil on 26 November, 2012, 10:08:08 pm
Quote from: boabacca on 26 November, 2012, 09:50:48 pm
I made the amateur (moronic) error of taking a 700c x 18-23 tube, for, erm, a 700c 32mm tyre.

90 minutes walk home. That'll learn ya.
I often do that.  Doesn't seem to be a problem.

did you enjoy the walk?  ???
Even less now I know I could've ridden. I didn't even try putting it in, tbh. Doh.

OTOH I have had problems with undersized tubes pulling a bit thin in places, or not filling the tyre evenly.  Best to have the right size, really.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil W on 27 November, 2012, 12:17:30 pm
I popped my head out the door and it was raining. I grabbed my waterproof shorts and leg warmers. After getting changed I came out, but the rain had eased.  Got to office. Rain got heavy again.  might not be so lucky tonight.  Roads were not too badly flooded today with only one section where it was completely submerged.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 27 November, 2012, 06:46:27 pm
Quote from: clarion on 27 November, 2012, 09:51:15 am
Quote from: boabacca on 27 November, 2012, 09:49:20 am
Quote from: Basil on 26 November, 2012, 10:08:08 pm
Quote from: boabacca on 26 November, 2012, 09:50:48 pm
I made the amateur (moronic) error of taking a 700c x 18-23 tube, for, erm, a 700c 32mm tyre.

90 minutes walk home. That'll learn ya.
I often do that.  Doesn't seem to be a problem.

did you enjoy the walk?  ???
Even less now I know I could've ridden. I didn't even try putting it in, tbh. Doh.

OTOH I have had problems with undersized tubes pulling a bit thin in places, or not filling the tyre evenly.  Best to have the right size, really.

I was on a nocturnal excursion from our caravan last year and punctured near the foot of Bignor Hill in darkest Sussex at about 3am (too dark to bother with watches).  I pulled out my first spare tube from my pocket and saw that it was in a 650c not 700c box.  I had that dreadful sinking feeling....   I'd bought a pack of 5 tubes from Wiggle and I bet I had clicked on the wrong size option....  :facepalm:  Sure enough.  The second tube was identical to the first. 

I now had a choice between calling for rescue (40km from base in the middle of nowhere with 2 kids in the caravan at 3am) or experimenting with getting a 26" tube onto a 27" wheel.

So, deciding that life and marriage were both viable options, I began to fix the tyre.  It took a fair bit of cursing and stretching of the tube, but it did go on.  I pumped it up and it didn't explode.  Bignor hill doesn't have much tarmac sticking to it and has 30% gradients (i am not exaggerating - I've ridden it in the same week as verified 25% climbs), so was mightly surprised when I still had an inflated tyre by the time I'd gone up and down it.  The ride involved doing a whole series of ascents of the South Downs outbound at night and back in the daylight, so by the time I got back I was (a) dead chuffed and (b) dead tired.  So I never got around to fulfilling the promise I'd made to myself of putting a tube in that fitted.

Later that year I was out for an evening ride, shaking off some weekened cobwebs after too many chores, in the Hannington area NW of Basingstoke, a well known motherlode for p"nct%re fairies, especially given there had been recent rain to wash all the flints (fairy eggs?) onto the racing line.  Sure enough as I was descending the front tyre went spongy and I came to a slithering halt, propped the bike up on a farm gate and begun to fix the tyre.  For some reason I had a devil of a job getting the old inner tube off.  It took a moment to sink in.  It was the 26" tube I'd put on about 2500 miles before in the dark at the foot of Bignor Hill  ;D ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 27 November, 2012, 06:53:22 pm
B*starding cold ride home against a nasty cold North headwind.   That is all.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 27 November, 2012, 07:39:22 pm
Quote from: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 27 November, 2012, 06:46:27 pm
experimenting with getting a 26" tube onto a 27" wheel.

When I tried that, it exploded about 500m down the road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 27 November, 2012, 08:41:39 pm
My freewheel exploded just as I arrived at work, that explains the funny clicking sound I've had for the last 1000 miles or so!

Took the wheel to the Heathrow CycleHub at lunchtime, and the guys were fantastic. After showing them the borked remains of the freewheel, they took the wheel straight off me, and round to the workshop, removed the remains and fitted a new one.
Handed back to me without getting my hands dirty, all for the princely sum of £13.49p
And they even threw in a replacement skewer (2nd hand) as mine was a little bent.

How they make a profit I do not know. Actually, I think they dont make a profit. I think it's a Tax dodge by BAA. but they do have really reasonable prices.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 28 November, 2012, 08:25:49 am
Abandoned ride in on account of black ice. At Stonehaven station.  Took 2 hrs to get here. Walked a fair bit of it. Bah.
1 off and a busted shifter.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 28 November, 2012, 08:34:57 am
Quote from: Feanor on 28 November, 2012, 08:25:49 am
Abandoned ride in on account of black ice. At Stonehaven station.  Took 2 hrs to get here. Walked a fair bit of it. Bah.
1 off and a busted shifter.

Shee-it Feanor, staying ahead of me isn't worth that! Hope you're OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 28 November, 2012, 09:59:12 am
Feanor, I think it's getting to that time of year when unpleasant reality overtakes us.

Glad you're OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 28 November, 2012, 10:03:52 am
Last night, as I was getting ready to ride home, I realised I'd packed my Friday Legs.  It was a looooong 20km home.  And, yes, it was the full twenty, as I made a point of starting off from work in the wrong direction in order to add the bit on.

This morning, I forgot to pack my Mojo.  After being pulled out on at two of the first three roundabouts (I only do five in all, but the first three are before I get to Mitcham), it wasn't being as much fun as it Should.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 28 November, 2012, 11:09:34 am
Yea, I need to choose my days a bit more carefully from now on.
In retrospect, I did something a bit silly yesterday.

I left the car at work, and rode home.
That commited me to a ride in the following morning.
And there's always the risk of ice in the morning before the sun comes up.

I need to do the In-and-Out on the same day.
Riding in in the morning, I can choose whether or not to do that.
If I do, I'm committed to a ride home in the afternoon, but at least there won't be any ice.   Any ice there may have been will have had the sun on it during the day, and will be gone by home-time.

Cracking top speed on the Garmin, though!
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/247491729
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 28 November, 2012, 11:19:13 am
Quote from: Feanor on 28 November, 2012, 11:09:34 am

Cracking top speed on the Garmin, though!
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/247491729


You can get up quite a speed sliding on that ice can't you ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: phantasmagoriana on 28 November, 2012, 06:18:27 pm
I took a detour, because I'm not as hard as these two: http://t.co/Tremoy4a
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Karla on 28 November, 2012, 06:43:22 pm
I went through that yesterday evening, but detoured today.  The main issue was when I left the path and the wheels started sliding on the grass: I was wondering whether I could unclip in time if I started to topple, but thankfully made it to the other side upright.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 28 November, 2012, 10:20:55 pm
It was a bit of a slog in this morning, catching a head wind on a few roads, which was mildly hard work.  On the plus side, this evening was a lovely ride home, with the wind behind me, and clear skies, with a nice bright moon.

The forecast looks to be cool, but barely hitting freezing.  Since the roads are dry, and there's no rain forecast, it should be OK for the next few days, and I don't think I'll bother fitting the studded tyres.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 28 November, 2012, 10:24:13 pm
Quote from: TimO on 28 November, 2012, 10:20:55 pm
It was a bit of a slog in this morning, catching a head wind on a few roads, which was mildly hard work.  On the plus side, this evening was a lovely ride home, with the wind behind me, and clear skies, with a nice bright moon.

The forecast looks to be cool, but barely hitting freezing.  Since the roads are dry, and there's no rain forecast, it should be OK for the next few days, and I don't think I'll bother fitting the studded tyres.

'Gagging for a ride' night out there tonight.
You were lucky, TimO.
Some of us had to contend with the coughers, wheezers, sneezers and diseasers on the tube.
Hopefully away from that in the not too distant...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil W on 28 November, 2012, 11:59:11 pm
I got a deflation 5 mins from tonight, so completed the commute on foot. Tonight is my club social ride of 3 hours to a country pub, but no enough time to fix puncture and have tea.  :( but I have a second bike, my mtb  :) so the evening ride happened. Tomorrow commute on mtb off road and fix road bike puncture in evening
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 29 November, 2012, 08:13:40 am
Cracking ride over to my office yesterday (80k round trip). I haven't really been on a bike much since the dinner darts the weekend before last, so I fully expected heavy legs - and they were.

The journey back and they had certainly woken up - felt brilliant.

Only one numpty who (very kindly and unusually) pulled into the passing point at the top of one of the hills on the single track part. Shame he sat there with his full beam on.  Could see approximately nothing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 29 November, 2012, 08:52:10 am
A really beautiful commute in this morning.  Dead still.  Crisp, cold and clear. Parked cars covered with frost but the roads OK.  Bulging full moon with  Jupiter just by it, and Venus on the opposite side of the dome (but light pollution and the approaching dawn drowning out the stars).  Spring can wait as long as we get more of these.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 29 November, 2012, 09:16:50 am
Ice - Lots of frozen puddles (including one I went through the surface of), some frozen rivulets across the road from draining fields and some unnervingly silent stretches of black ice.

The snow studs were as grippy as ever though :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 29 November, 2012, 09:27:41 am
A tad chilly on this side of the pennines as well.

Not a lot of ice about - the roads had mostly dried. Just enough to make me cautious tho'.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 29 November, 2012, 09:37:45 am
Decided I'd try out my new Gore insulated jacket this morning.  Nice and warm standing in a drafty station waiting for a train, but too warm when actually cycling, I had sweat dripping down the cleavage when I got to work, and looked a bit pink in the face.  Not helped by the headwind and extra effort to be honest.  I was only cycling an extra mile as my train ran fast to the terminus in the end after we had a medical emergency on the train and had to wait for an ambulance.

Poor sod on the train had a full on grand mal seizure but it was nice to see people helping out, clearing space for him, helping his mum stop him hitting his head and generally assisting until the paramedics arrived.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 29 November, 2012, 09:51:16 am
Was that the train that was stuck at Barnes Bridge? That was the only information that the system seemed able to impart this morning - all the boards and timetables were down.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 29 November, 2012, 09:54:41 am
Quote from: Jurek on 28 November, 2012, 10:24:13 pm


'Gagging for a ride' night out there tonight.
You were lucky, TimO.
Some of us had to contend with the coughers, wheezers, sneezers and diseasers on the tube.
Hopefully away from that in the not too distant...

G'wan, Jurek. Treat your new colleagues to the Lycra. I'm sure they can cope with, nay, deserve it!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 29 November, 2012, 09:55:27 am
I felt cold this morning, and it was hard to turn the legs as I set off.  I need to see the doctor tomorrow, I think, to sort out the resurgence of chest infection which I've been keeping as bay for a week or so.  And I need more painkillers for my shoulder. :(

Being nearly knocked off didn't help my mood, and I felt like I was struggling most of the way.  But I managed a decent time.  I didn't dare check if I had a tailwind.

I don't want to be here.  I do want to go home.  I don't think I will find it easy getting on the bike tonight. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 29 November, 2012, 09:55:57 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 29 November, 2012, 09:54:41 am
Quote from: Jurek on 28 November, 2012, 10:24:13 pm


'Gagging for a ride' night out there tonight.
You were lucky, TimO.
Some of us had to contend with the coughers, wheezers, sneezers and diseasers on the tube.
Hopefully away from that in the not too distant...

G'wan, Jurek. Treat your new colleagues to the Lycra. I'm sure they can cope with, nay, deserve it!

I had been quietly hoping that our Jurek was quietly getting on with cycling to work already :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 29 November, 2012, 10:02:55 am
Where was everyone this morning? Until Mile End I saw no other cyclist.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 29 November, 2012, 10:19:34 am
Quote from: Ham on 29 November, 2012, 10:02:55 am
Where was everyone this morning? Until Mile End I saw no other cyclist.

Ice, or threat of, innit? People are scared of it, sometimes quite rightly so, other times not.

Glad you are back to CBB.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 29 November, 2012, 10:27:54 am
I was in a car. I don't care about the environment today, or my exercise totals, or the cost of petrol, the profligate waste of fossil fuel yadda yadda. I selfishly am glad glad glad I wasn't riding and got an extra hour in bed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 29 November, 2012, 10:34:39 am
The ice risk was insidious this morning; temperature of +1/+2 and heavy rain showers to wet the roads followed by long clear spells to freeze it. Four wheels good, two wheels bad (unless spiky) today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 29 November, 2012, 11:28:05 am
Quote from: Butterfly on 29 November, 2012, 09:51:16 am
Was that the train that was stuck at Barnes Bridge? That was the only information that the system seemed able to impart this morning - all the boards and timetables were down.

That's the one.  I have a bruise from where his legs came out and caught me just below the knee, but I'm just glad he is okay, he didn't hurt himself as his mum managed to stop him hitting his head on the side of the seat or anything hard (of which there are plenty).  The train isn't too crowded at this point either, which helped.

He was already starting the fit when he got on the train at Chiswick I think though, as when he sat down opposite he was trying to keep his hands still in his lap, and then he just went.  His mum was next to me so with the help of the large chap opposite the aisle they got him on the floor and into the recovery position, when we pulled into Barnes Bridge we got someone to pull the emergency switch and called an ambulance.

Assuming he is epileptic - as his mum was very calm and knew what to do - it's a very sad condition in a part of the body that we can only begin to understand.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Bodgeit on 29 November, 2012, 12:22:15 pm
Had an off this morning due to an icy corner as well as 2 other workmates & almost a 3rd. Stood up up walked over to pick the bike up & landed on my ass again!

Thinking about some spikey tyres myself now, maybe fitted to the MTB?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 29 November, 2012, 12:46:25 pm
Had a run in with a driver from Gunn JCB last night who threatened to knock me off, phone call this morning from his director who was very interested in the footage.

Survived the ice this morning despite still being on 23mm rubber, was a bit ginger cornering though, guess I really HAVE to put the spikes on the MTB now, while at the weekend anyway
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 29 November, 2012, 01:01:20 pm
Lovely moon on the ride in this morning.  I hardly noticed the cold, but was very glad it was dry.

We're entering the 'party season', so there's an increasing temptation to leave the bike behind and use public transport.  OTOH, I'm not that far ahead of my goal, and long hours combined with low-level-lurgy means I can't afford to miss too many days.  But if the remaining days are like this morning (idiots aside) then I'm quite happy to keep on cycling. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: phantasmagoriana on 29 November, 2012, 01:05:52 pm
One or two frozen puddles - not sure whether there was any proper ice around, but I avoided the cyclepaths and stuck to main roads just to be on the safe side.

I fear the time for fitting studded tyres may be fast approaching.. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 29 November, 2012, 01:20:42 pm
Despite initial intentions to stop listening to my ego, take it easy until the end of year, and enjoy the glorious crisp dry conditions in east London, passing bus shelters crowded with faces tucked deeply in scarves, their eyes scanning the road to the right for the temporary relief of a warm heated bus.
A sedated start of commute until Sratford high street, where Cube bike rider #1 passed me as I was patiently waiting for the signal to turn green. That's when the ego thwarted initial plans, and as green came quickly, I managed to maintain a narrow lead over him after a strategic and safe move to the middle lane which was clear of buses and hgvs  and allowed a comfortable overtake, and  despite his gears ka-tchinking loudly under pressure from a tense chain (do bike chains experience the anxieties of their riders? ) the lead was maintained for 300 m until the next set of lights. At this point he forfeited his chances of winning our informal race by going through yet another red signal, and I congratulated myself on a victory by default.
Cube bike rider #2 was observed in full race kit near work, wobbling up a gentle 5m incline leading to his company's car park.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 29 November, 2012, 01:57:23 pm
Quote from: phantasmagoriana on 29 November, 2012, 01:05:52 pm
I fear the time for fitting studded tyres may be fast approaching.. :-\

I've been peering at the weather forecasts speculatively, and have decided that since the roads are dry, and will most likely stay like this for the next few day's potentially sub-zero temperatures, I'm not going to switch over to the studded tyres yet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 29 November, 2012, 01:59:47 pm
I note that the Met Office thinks South London will touch freezing temperatures overnight tonight and Saturday night, but warmer again by Monday morning.  One of the advantages of living in a huddled mass of humans in the tropical South.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 29 November, 2012, 02:01:47 pm
Quote from: phantasmagoriana on 29 November, 2012, 01:05:52 pm
I fear the time for fitting studded tyres may be fast approaching.. :-\
I'm on the ice bike, seating in (or however they phrase it) the studs. I'll need them tomorrow, for sure.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 29 November, 2012, 02:02:27 pm
Quote from: TimO on 29 November, 2012, 01:57:23 pm
Quote from: phantasmagoriana on 29 November, 2012, 01:05:52 pm
I fear the time for fitting studded tyres may be fast approaching.. :-\

I've been peering at the weather forecasts speculatively, and have decided that since the roads are dry, and will most likely stay like this for the next few day's potentially sub-zero temperatures, I'm not going to switch over to the studded tyres yet.

Probably OK in urban areas. There's a lot of field run-off still, out in the 'burbs and the sticks - which'll freeze nicely. Not to mention, large lakes of standing pig slurry water in some places.

Should be warmer, at least for a while, after Sunday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 29 November, 2012, 02:05:32 pm
Quote from: TimO on 29 November, 2012, 01:57:23 pm
Quote from: phantasmagoriana on 29 November, 2012, 01:05:52 pm
I fear the time for fitting studded tyres may be fast approaching.. :-\

I've been peering at the weather forecasts speculatively, and have decided that since the roads are dry, and will most likely stay like this for the next few day's potentially sub-zero temperatures, I'm not going to switch over to the studded tyres yet.
Same here

But I have the option of sticking to just roads and avoiding cycle paths.

Natalie's commute inevitably involves cycle paths (unless they are under several feet of water).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 29 November, 2012, 02:10:14 pm
Cycle paths? Here I can have lanes or bridleways.

Sticks central.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 29 November, 2012, 02:14:22 pm
I'm glad I took the decision last night to fit them (still frost on top of some of the cars in the car park now).

If it warms up then I may decided to use a different bike instead of the one shod with studs, but if in doubt I'm going with studs until spring :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ewan Houzami on 29 November, 2012, 05:24:14 pm
Today was the one time in ten I decided to cycle through the pedestrianised section of Bromley HS (with lights, at walking speed, giving way to pedestrians), instead of dismounting and walking. I'm the one the CHIMPS decide to issue a stop notice to, while a couple of oiks hurtle through the crowd at twenty mph. 'Why don't you stop them then?' I enquire, politely. 'They're going too fast, sir. We can't catch them.'  :facepalm: 'Ah. OK. Next time then. You great big doughnut...' Thinks I.

Still, not quite as funny </sarcasm>  as the reason the police gave me when they clocked my stolen motorbike being ridden erratically by two youths through Wandsworth. 'They weren't wearing helmets, Sir. The patrol car isn't allowed to chase..'
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 29 November, 2012, 07:37:10 pm
Prat - studded tyres are not invincible!

Almost came off when I decided to ride the pretty route home. There's a short sharp bank to get up which has a temporary stream running down (which is now frozen solid). Mashing up the hill as normal led to a lot of rear wheel spin (The tyres are up at 60psi which is way too high for full on ice) and almost a very embarrassing fall. :-[

At least I did manage to stay studded side down.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 29 November, 2012, 07:39:44 pm
Look on the bright side - you'd be bruised and bashed about, if not in the fracture clinic, had you been on normal slick tyres :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 29 November, 2012, 07:41:28 pm
Nahh, cos he'd have taken the sensible route home.   ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 29 November, 2012, 07:47:18 pm
Humm.   Considering my options.  Friday is normally a riding day.
But the bruising has only just gone down from yesterday.
Bike is fully functional, busted shifter fixed, remaining damage cosmetic.

I may wait-and-see tomorrow morning, and then I may choose a cut-down route which involves taking the bike in the car to Stonehaven and then riding a shorter route from there.

I'd had a half-formed plan to take Fri off and do a sneaky DIY 200, but that's not going to happen.   All the interesting 200 routes from Lowe Towers involve high ground, and there's snow on them now.   And I've limited patience for flogging around the flatlands.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 29 November, 2012, 08:00:50 pm
Well its my first post.

Not on my commute today but my commute last night was far more interesting.

I had for the first time ever, a chain snap on me (the chain itself less than 200 miles old and kept clean and oiled).

Thankfully a Halfords was only a short walk (20mins in spds) away and I managed to get going again.

Got home late, got a bollocking and then in the morning had a punctured M+ (tire less than 200 miles old as well).  A 6mm very straight and thin piece of wire had gone straight through.

I must be the unluckiest person in the world, not having had 2 punctures on M+ in the last 3 months.

Other than that, I was OK.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 29 November, 2012, 08:07:44 pm
Hi, velosam.
Welcome to the asylum.

200 mile chain breakage is unusual.
Do you have a history of this?

What's your chain-line like in normal useage?
Are you doing a lot of monster hills?
Are you doing nasty shifts under load?

Assuming not, than I think you just got unlucky.

And yes, M+ is not actually p!ncture-proof, as you have discovered.
I've had similar.

R.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 29 November, 2012, 08:09:37 pm
snapped chains are horrible.

I've had three chains go
One was my fault for mashing shifts
One was because the bike cables were dirty resulting in a bad shift
One was definitely a cheap shite chain - the 'powerlink' broke through
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 29 November, 2012, 08:15:43 pm
I've only ever bust one chain, I put it down to its being shite.  A Taya I think. Stuck with Sram and KMC ever since and never had a problem again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 29 November, 2012, 08:16:49 pm
Quote from: velosam on 29 November, 2012, 08:00:50 pm
Well its my first post.

Not on my commute today but my commute last night was far more interesting.

I had for the first time ever, a chain snap on me (the chain itself less than 200 miles old and kept clean and oiled).

Thankfully a Halfords was only a short walk (20mins in spds) away and I managed to get going again.

Got home late, got a bollocking and then in the morning had a punctured M+ (tire less than 200 miles old as well).  A 6mm very straight and thin piece of wire had gone straight through.

I must be the unluckiest person in the world, not having had 2 punctures on M+ in the last 3 months.

Other than that, I was OK.


And welcome. Shame you hadn't got happier things to relate in your first post. Doubtless they will come.  :-)
Title: Re: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 29 November, 2012, 08:22:03 pm
Quote from: Feanor on 29 November, 2012, 07:47:18 pm
Humm.   Considering my options.  Friday is normally a riding day.
But the bruising has only just gone down from yesterday.
Keep safe.
(as to hammering round the flatlands, tis my bread & butter)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cygnet on 29 November, 2012, 10:00:51 pm
Not technically on my commute since I was walking back to the office/bike from a meeting, but a first sighting for me:

Cyclist with a red light on the handlebars [seen that a few times before], and a red light on the seatpost, but a white light on the back of their rucksack. ?!?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 29 November, 2012, 10:13:48 pm
Quote from: cygnet on 29 November, 2012, 10:00:51 pm
Not technically on my commute since I was walking back to the office/bike from a meeting, but a first sighting for me:

Cyclist with a red light on the handlebars [seen that a few times before], and a red light on the seatpost, but a white light on the back of their rucksack. ?!?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e61uC-5s9VU
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 29 November, 2012, 10:18:38 pm
Two very nice commute rides today. Fairly calm and nice and dry. Cold toes and nose but otherwise fine, too hot if anything as I went overboard on the layers side of things.

I've got tomorrow off work (to study unfortunately) but may have to do a pseudo commute if it's nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 29 November, 2012, 10:23:23 pm
Quote from: clarion on 29 November, 2012, 09:55:57 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 29 November, 2012, 09:54:41 am
Quote from: Jurek on 28 November, 2012, 10:24:13 pm


'Gagging for a ride' night out there tonight.
You were lucky, TimO.
Some of us had to contend with the coughers, wheezers, sneezers and diseasers on the tube.
Hopefully away from that in the not too distant...

G'wan, Jurek. Treat your new colleagues to the Lycra. I'm sure they can cope with, nay, deserve it!

I had been quietly hoping that our Jurek was quietly getting on with cycling to work already :(

Were in not for the wrist still being in a compression bandage following a sprain as the result of a very poor landing after an unscheduled flying lesson just outside of Cambridge a couple of weeks ago, [pauses for breath]
then I would be.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil W on 29 November, 2012, 10:39:37 pm
90% off road commute today (in sunshine) and off road tracks were not flooded and had less mud than the country lanes I tackle on my road bike.  Surprised?, oh yes!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 29 November, 2012, 10:43:52 pm
Jurek, :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 29 November, 2012, 11:27:19 pm
A little brisk out there, but not properly cold yet.  Heathrow has 2°C, and Gatwick is at 0°C.  It's normally somewhere between the two here.

It was a nice evening for a commute however, lovely clear sky, and a full moon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 29 November, 2012, 11:32:44 pm
The stuff on cars as I slewed my way home from the pub (on foot, you'll doubtless be relieved to hear) had definitely issued forth from the "Frost" dispenser.
In quantity.

Tomorrow morning?
Bbbbbbbbrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!!!!!!!!!
I suspect.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 30 November, 2012, 02:39:56 am
Quote from: Jurek on 29 November, 2012, 11:32:44 pm
The stuff on cars as I slewed my way home from the pub (on foot, you'll doubtless be relieved to hear) had definitely issued forth from the "Frost" dispenser.
In quantity.

Tomorrow morning?
Bbbbbbbbrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!!!!!!!!!
I suspect.

Yeah, its -4C out there now and the water draining off the fields still has caused an epic gritting failure with sheet ice in places. I am very glad I will not be on the bike tomorrow. I will even be concerned about driving my car on A roads. The A371 between GrahamG's house in Wells and mine in Axbridge is badly affected in places, I had to drive at about 5mph over most of it. The police are there looking at some of it, I'm not sure exactly what they think they can do, but I suppose hanging out there on the worst sheet of ice all night with blue flashing lights on will either warn drivers or get them rear ended. Maybe they will actually close the road, since there will more than likely be crashes in the morning if they don't.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 30 November, 2012, 06:08:38 am
Just poked my nose out of the door, it is pretty cold, even in inner London.  I have popped back in to dig out an extra layer, before hopping on the bike and pedalling like mad to warm up as quickly as possible.  Seems a lovely morning, though, clear, bright, big moon, twinkling stars.  Might extend the commute via Blackheath and Greenwich and try and catch the beginnings of sunrise at the end.  It is Friday, after all.
    Take care, all you country folks.  There be ice, somewhere, surely.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 30 November, 2012, 07:21:46 am
Yep, on the chilly side today. Bad case of friday legs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 30 November, 2012, 08:42:25 am
(http://i952.photobucket.com/albums/ae7/fboab/20121130_073129.jpg)

Ice tyres kept me upright. I rode for a fair while trying not to look at the 'road' as it was too scary.

A fellow lunatic yelled at me that 'loads of ice in Livermere' when our paths crossed. He wasn't wrong.

2 panniers + ice tyres + terror = worst time yet.

My boss has just gone out and 'admired' the studs. 'Those little things are enough on those teeny tyres?'
'seems so'
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 30 November, 2012, 09:02:47 am
No commute for me today. - I'm still in bed  :D - I'm not sure if I will be going out for my cafe breakfast run either.  There are sharp corners on some of the descents that are pretty tricky even in what passes for good weather here.
I'm sure I'd manage better if I didn't tense up so much, but I've never been a confident descender, even in good weather.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 30 November, 2012, 09:03:05 am
I'm not on the Brompton today, as the department are taking us out for dinner tonight as someone is leaving, though they are being a bit cheapskate and rolling it in with the Christmas celebration.  To be fair we usually have it early anyway as half the office (at least) disappears home to India half way through December.

So I wore my best smart coat instead of the lovely and warm duvet like Gore Jacket I wore yesterday.  And didn't have arm warmers with me.

I was cold (Clapham Junction is running Twickenham a close second on drafty stations on my route).  I still had leggings on over opaque tights though, as I do when on the Brompton, so my legs were warm.  I dug out my knee high Timberland boots with fleecy linings, but I haven't tried cycling in them yet.

When it gets milder in London next week, it'll rain though.  I prefer colder and dry thanks!

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 30 November, 2012, 09:04:59 am
Quote from: boabacca on 30 November, 2012, 08:42:25 am
(http://i952.photobucket.com/albums/ae7/fboab/20121130_073129.jpg)

Ice tyres kept me upright. I rode for a fair while trying not to look at the 'road' as it was too scary.

A fellow lunatic yelled at me that 'loads of ice in Livermere' when our paths crossed. He wasn't wrong.

2 panniers + ice tyres + terror = worst time yet.

My boss has just gone out and 'admired' the studs. 'Those little things are enough on those teeny tyres?'
'seems so'

Nice one  :thumbsup:.

Studs are good - it takes a while to trust them though. Don't forget, they kept me upright on this (may I remind the viewer, there is no liquid water anywhere in this shot):

(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7010/6834651007_f00da0d744.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40735552@N05/6834651007/)
IMAG0302 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40735552@N05/6834651007/) by Pelotonhound (http://www.flickr.com/people/40735552@N05/), on Flickr

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 30 November, 2012, 09:07:43 am
Yes, studs can be impressive, and so long as you're not stupid, they'll keep you upright on ice that you can barely stand on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 30 November, 2012, 09:09:42 am
Quote from: TimO on 30 November, 2012, 09:07:43 am
Yes, studs can be impressive, and so long as you're not stupid, they'll keep you upright on ice that you can barely stand on.

Indeed. And you MUST remember this when you come to put a foot down at junctions. Can you get golf shoes with cleats?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 30 November, 2012, 09:42:37 am
Quote from: Chris S on 30 November, 2012, 09:09:42 am
Can you get golf shoes with cleats?

How would that work?  You wouldn't know who to take the piss out of...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 30 November, 2012, 09:51:23 am
In the nick of time, my missing glove liner reappeared this morning - in the sock drawer......

I am very thankful for this as it was brisk this morning.  No ice to deal with unlike others though - but be careful folks!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 30 November, 2012, 11:44:10 am
Quote from: Goldilocks on 29 November, 2012, 05:24:14 pm
Today was the one time in ten I decided to cycle through the pedestrianised section of Bromley HS (with lights, at walking speed, giving way to pedestrians), instead of dismounting and walking. I'm the one the CHIMPS decide to issue a stop notice to, while a couple of oiks hurtle through the crowd at twenty mph. 'Why don't you stop them then?' I enquire, politely. 'They're going too fast, sir. We can't catch them.'  :facepalm: 'Ah. OK. Next time then. You great big doughnut...' Thinks I.

Interesting! I've given up going through the pedestrianised section, mainly because it's usually too busy, ergo I have to go slow, ergo there's no advantage to the shortcut. Next time I choose to go that way, I'll remember to go as fast and recklessly as possible and not give a shit about the peds.  ::-)

Anyway, I now have three alternative routes to Bromley South station, avoiding that section, depending on which direction I'm approaching from. All are preferable.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 30 November, 2012, 12:06:53 pm
Got gritted on the way home last night. And rode past frozen puddles on the way in this morning. It must have been very cold last night. Not another winter like this!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 30 November, 2012, 12:11:58 pm
Quote from: Kim on 30 November, 2012, 09:42:37 am
Quote from: Chris S on 30 November, 2012, 09:09:42 am
Can you get golf shoes with cleats?

How would that work?  You wouldn't know who to take the piss out of...

Can you get spikes to go in the football stud holes on the front of MTB shoes I wonder.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 30 November, 2012, 06:02:59 pm
Freezing fog - i do enjoy  trying to see through the layer of ice that forms on my specs  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil W on 30 November, 2012, 10:26:18 pm
Beautiful off road ride (8 mile commute with 1 mile of road) to avoid the icy lanes today.  The off road was better than the road in these conditions, as it is porous the water drains and so no ice to worry about. The road (based on earlier in the week) will have had sheet ice in places. It was -5C to -3C on my commute today, with it being -5c where the pciture is taken.

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8483/8233669672_0fd944e38c_c.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 30 November, 2012, 10:33:22 pm
Cycled in with the trailer this morning. Cold and icy but not too bad. I had the trailer so I could bring a load of stuff home that I’ve had delivered to work over the past few weeks:

 - an SDS drill
 - drill bits
 - a mortar rake for said drill
 - a box of wall tiles
 - a plastic tile edging strip
 - Feline’s main Christmas present (the bulkiest item by far)

I put all the other stuff inside the trailer, which took several trips to the work car park, with Feline’s present bungeed to the top of the trailer, and gingerly set off. It was about 8pm by the time I left, so below freezing. It all started to get a bit dicey on the cycle path. I’m sure I felt the bike sliding around on the wooden slats of the walkway over the river at the common. The last straw was gingerly going round a downhill bend on semi-frozen leaf mulch (council should be sacked for not sweeping up this stuff before the freeze starts) so I went on the road when I got to Fen Ditton. Sod icy cycle paths with slick tyres, a fixed wheel, and a trailer trying to push me along when I try to stop on the ice.

The other thing was the pain in my fingers. I think my nice warm lobster gloves are at Feline’s. :( Though in a way tonight was better than last night because my fingers started to warm up after a while and I didn’t have agony when I got indoors. I started on some preparation work for laying the tiles, doing a bit of filling around the edge. I might start laying them out and cutting the edge ones down to size if ICBA later.

 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 30 November, 2012, 11:06:46 pm
Here in That London, even tending towards the outskirts a bit, it's not freezing (yet), so whilst a little nippy, the commute was easy enough.  It had slightly more than it's normal level of numpties, even though I'd deliberately left it until 9 to 10ish, which avoids people leaving working, and travelling elsewhere, but the pissheads haven't quite started to leave the pubs yet.

The two exceptional cases of genius tonight though, were the black cab driver, who having started to go down a one way street, for whatever reason decided he didn't want to do that, and started to reverse out.  Arguably not legal or sensible, and somewhat less advised since he was reversing onto a set of traffic lights (which he couldn't see, since a one way street off of the traffic lights doesn't need lights ... )

The other 'special' person was the one who decided to try and jump the red lights at the one-way road works in Balham, under the railway bridge.  Of course, meeting about twenty cars going the other direction pointed out to him the error of his ways.  The police car two thirds along that queue of vehicles would probably have stopped to have a chat if there hadn't been a heap of cars behind it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 01 December, 2012, 08:33:48 am
Quote from: citoyen on 30 November, 2012, 11:44:10 am
Quote from: Goldilocks on 29 November, 2012, 05:24:14 pm
Today was the one time in ten I decided to cycle through the pedestrianised section of Bromley HS (with lights, at walking speed, giving way to pedestrians), instead of dismounting and walking. I'm the one the CHIMPS decide to issue a stop notice to, while a couple of oiks hurtle through the crowd at twenty mph. 'Why don't you stop them then?' I enquire, politely. 'They're going too fast, sir. We can't catch them.'  :facepalm: 'Ah. OK. Next time then. You great big doughnut...' Thinks I.

Interesting! I've given up going through the pedestrianised section, mainly because it's usually too busy, ergo I have to go slow, ergo there's no advantage to the shortcut. Next time I choose to go that way, I'll remember to go as fast and recklessly as possible and not give a shit about the peds.  ::-)

Anyway, I now have three alternative routes to Bromley South station, avoiding that section, depending on which direction I'm approaching from. All are preferable.

d.

The thing is....... with the pedestrianised section of Bromley High Street, if you ride your bike through there at walking pace at 07:00 am,  when it's mostly deserted, save for the market traders setting up, you'll get shouted at by the stall holders unloading their wares from the Luton Transits (which were obviously pushed there by their drivers so as not to infringe the traffic regulations).
Whereas if you walk your bike through there later in the day when it's rammed with shoppers, the bike miraculously becomes invisible and people walk into it as if it isn't there, and you get tutted and scowled at.
In much the same way as people do with prams and push chairs (not).
Strange, that....

I'd be interested in your alternatives to the High Street, d.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 01 December, 2012, 12:28:11 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 01 December, 2012, 08:33:48 am
I'd be interested in your alternatives to the High Street, d.

How about between Churchill Way and Tetty Way?  It's unlikely that it's a legal right of way for bicycles, although on Google Streetview there's no sign of any explicit No Cycling signs (unlike Bromley High Street).  Even if you walk, it's a much shorter section.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 01 December, 2012, 11:40:35 pm
Slightly overdue report for Thursday. Going round a short downhill, LH Bend to find the road covered with ice (water runs of a farmyard here) - complete with a dog scampering around right in front of me.

Cue much braking and locked up wheels. No off though - the trike has just justified its existence.

 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 02 December, 2012, 12:20:57 pm
Quote from: TimO on 01 December, 2012, 12:28:11 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 01 December, 2012, 08:33:48 am
I'd be interested in your alternatives to the High Street, d.

How about between Churchill Way and Tetty Way?  It's unlikely that it's a legal right of way for bicycles, although on Google Streetview there's no sign of any explicit No Cycling signs (unlike Bromley High Street).  Even if you walk, it's a much shorter section.

If I recall, the path is quite skinny, so if you're pushing a bike and meet a fat person or one those urban combat pushchairs coming the other way, you might be there for some time.

I confess I mostly cycle along the pedestrianised bit but then it's usually Sunday evening when the shoppers are home, the only other alternative seems to be umpteen lanes of the Kentish Way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 03 December, 2012, 09:06:26 am
There is a distinct lack of grit on the roads between York and Leeds.

Ribmo's don't have very good grip on ice.

Aldi ski mittens are very warm, but not abrasion resistant.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 03 December, 2012, 09:49:22 am
Ouch, I hope MrCharly is abbrasion resistant though and not too bruised.

obligatory question: how's the bike?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 December, 2012, 09:58:56 am
Yes.  Concerned for you (and your bike ;) )
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 03 December, 2012, 10:02:51 am
Bike is fine, thanks - and I just have a slightly wrenched shoulder and a mashed bit on my knee, nothing at all.

TBH, I've been dreading falling on the ice. Now that the first fall is over (and wasn't painful or expensive), I'm feeling much more relaxed about the winter riding to come.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 December, 2012, 10:14:36 am
That's good, I suppose.  This year, I'm terrified of falling on the ice. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 03 December, 2012, 10:18:47 am
Glad you're ok-ish anyway. To be fair, Ribmo are fairly shit in the wet, too.

(edit: actually, they aren't shit, they just aren't particularly good)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 03 December, 2012, 10:38:13 am
Bike setup for today:
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8348/8239998151_32ff09ac87_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davidmam/8239998151/)
tyre choice today: nokian studs. (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davidmam/8239998151/) by davidmamartin (http://www.flickr.com/people/davidmam/), on Flickr

Unfortunately when I swapped the chain and cassette on the bike, it was the other set of wheels. I'm pretty sure I had bought two cassettes though so will be weilding tools tonight to remove the chain skippy skippy feeling.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 03 December, 2012, 10:22:44 pm
Wednesday morning I was nearly at work when the aluminium bracket holding my IQ CYO bracket and IQ cyo reminded me that I needed to something about the vibration. The overlength extension finally snapped at the elbow.  So for a two and a half days I found other ways to go to work. On Sunday I exploited the daylight to make new mounting arrangement less than half the length of before.  By accident after the assumed ideal would not work I happened upon a much better angle for the lamp. I really enjoyed the unlit sections of my commute this evening.   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wonky on 04 December, 2012, 07:18:19 am
Rode for the first time on spikies. Wow, they do make some noise dont they? They dont feel that grippy either, and there is a noticeable extra pedalling effort required.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 04 December, 2012, 07:42:51 am
Don't worry Wonky you'll ntotice the grip when you do hit the ice, a little give followed by the spikes biting, this is assuming you've got them at the right pressure for the conditions, 60psi is too high for sheet ice   ;)

Last nights commute home was into a git of a headwind, which I was very grateful to when silver van man nearly took me out at Irlam lights, guy was very upset, got a full apology and thought he was gonna cry at me.

Last night's headwind became a cracking tailwind this morning  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 04 December, 2012, 09:15:09 am
Quite fresh when I left this morning and the roads were fine, even as I rode Quarry Wood Road and up the hill.

The sudden onset of the sound of crisp frost underwheel when I turned off onto Winter Hill road though brought on a sudden case of the Heebie Jeebies- you know, that sudden feeling of clenching anatomy.

Unclipping and progressing at a very slow pace ensured an adhesion free arrival at work :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 04 December, 2012, 10:18:43 am
Gosh it was freezing in W London and my fingers felt like they would drop off. I am going to use the motorcycle gloves next time.

On the plus side no ice.  It starling how much easier it is on the roads, rather than cycle and canal paths.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 04 December, 2012, 10:27:40 am
There was some left over snow from yesterday but it was all melting and I was back on slicks (in part because of having not changed the cassette on the knobbly tyred wheels which was going skippy skip skip). Mundane incident free roll down the hill.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 04 December, 2012, 10:57:57 am
The visual equivalent of sticking your fingers in your ears and singing 'lalala I'm not listening' is quite difficult.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 04 December, 2012, 12:22:15 pm
Cold enough this mornign for me to think about heading into the loft to retrieve the studded tyres. No ice yet, but it only takes one patch to ruin christmas!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 December, 2012, 12:56:11 pm
No ice here (OK, I wasn't commuting; I was travelling the other way), but I was surprised at where I found frost on the road (Cheam, Ewell) and where I didn't (less urban stretches).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 04 December, 2012, 01:10:12 pm
I had ice all the way. Well, intermittently frost covered roads and icy patches. You can surely tell which 'slopes' are north facing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 04 December, 2012, 02:26:39 pm
There seems to be an outbreak of brummies falling over on cyclepaths this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 04 December, 2012, 03:03:59 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 01 December, 2012, 08:33:48 am
I'd be interested in your alternatives to the High Street, d.

If I'm coming from Catford, I tend to go straight along the A21 and follow it round, bypassing the high street then turning back up towards Bromley South. Alternatively, if you want to avoid the fun of Bromley Hill and the Kentish Way, you can turn off by McDonald's at the bottom of Bromley Hill and go the back way round, past Shortlands station and along Queen Anne Avenue, viz:
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k170/smutchin/Screenshot2012-12-04at145113.png)

Or you can take the turn into Station Road just before the railway bridge at Shortlands and use the cut-through at the end of Bromley Gardens (officially a cycle route but has a short "Cyclists Dismount" section, which you can safely ignore) to the short climb up Ringers Road to the High Street, viz:
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k170/smutchin/Screenshot2012-12-04at145709.png)

If I'm coming from Beckenham or Sydenham, I'll likewise turn off at Shortlands.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 04 December, 2012, 04:03:16 pm
I was going to suggest the first route citoyen gave. It's a far better roll through Bromley.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 04 December, 2012, 04:44:01 pm
Roads north of Bramley (Hants) were difficult.  Had to ride v. gingerly for about 4 miles until got past the icy patch.  Temperature was about 3C but that's enough for heat convection on tarmac to turn a thin film of water to ice.  A small flat bed truck had done a 180 on one particular turn, probably just a touch of brakes.  Had one v. low speed off but no damage.  Spotted more black ice on the little ramp by the Elm Tree at Beech Hill and hopped off and walked that section.  Changed route into Reading to avoid more problems.  Will take bigger roads on Thursday as they'll be gritted.  Weather like today is often the ones that catch the local authorities out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 04 December, 2012, 08:29:02 pm
Back on the commute today  :) after 2 weeks off work being  :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil W on 04 December, 2012, 09:24:32 pm
Quote from: boabacca on 04 December, 2012, 01:10:12 pm
I had ice all the way. Well, intermittently frost covered roads and icy patches. You can surely tell which 'slopes' are north facing.

Snap - I got off and walked one steep section. I was glad I did this after 50 yards in my bike wheels lost traction and slid away from me.  Lower down the hill, past the ice, back on bike and no more frost / ice challenges. On way home ice had not yet reformed. Tomorrow I'm taking mtb and off road route as you then don't get the ice forming like it down on non porous surfaces such as Tarmac.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 05 December, 2012, 08:19:45 am
Today I was resentful for the first couple of kms, thinking I should have got the fixed back out, what with its mudguards and easy rolling.
As it got lighter, I was glad I hadn't. Slush all over the place. Those aren't puddles of water, they're puddles of slush. I'll be sticking to the ice-bike for the foreseeable. Better safe slow than sorry.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 05 December, 2012, 08:25:35 am
No ice, a fair representation of sleety slush and ANOTHER fecking visitation on the front wheel >:( That is four in the last couple of weeks. I think it is probably the cut in the tyre. I may have to get a tyre liner as the rest of the tyre is in great condition.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 05 December, 2012, 09:19:02 am
Lots of frost and frozen puddles this morning, but the field's must be getting back down to just being saturated now as the field run-off rivulates were far fewer this morning.

There was still enough 'interesting' grip around for the studded tyres to be the correct choice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 05 December, 2012, 09:24:45 am
I chose a "use main roads as much as possible" route today.  No ice.  :thumbsup:
Title: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 05 December, 2012, 09:35:08 am
Came off the Brompton on a patch of black ice on the way to the station. No harm done. Probably would have got away with it if I hadn't been braking at the time. Gah!

d.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 05 December, 2012, 09:49:07 am
Quote from: Basil on 05 December, 2012, 09:24:45 am
I chose a "use main roads as much as possible" route today.  No ice.  :thumbsup:

I bought the studded tyres to allow me to use the back roads when icy. The cars leave them alone so I get the roads almost to myself :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 05 December, 2012, 10:25:10 am
sleetsnowsnowsnowSNOWSNOWSNOWSNOWSNOWSnowSnowtsleetdrizzle

It was a bit epic for my first cycle commute after a fortnight, but I enjoyed it a lot :D.

Clarion was right, I should have put the mudguards back on the bike ;D.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 05 December, 2012, 10:28:10 am
As I left home this morning I kept thinking "should have put the winter tyres on the commuter".  Thankfully, the roads were only wet, no ice (or snow - not far enough east), but I would have felt a bit more confident with the other tyres.  Hopefully I get home at a decent time and in decent shape tonite - will swap tyres over.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 05 December, 2012, 10:42:26 am
Slippery rails .... FFS its a teeny sprinking of snow for all of 5 mins, sleet for 10 mins, and then it stopped. Got to Feltham station at 07:07 for the 07:11 train, 07:05 was in the platform still, not that unusual.

It was still there at 07:25 after lots of puffing and spitting. Doors locked so we are all still standing there. Was packed though so whatever.

07:11 comes in and leaves at 07:30. Gets as far as Brentford and guard says train is running fast to Waterloo, there is another train behind if you want anything in between. I stay on as that works for me. Half the train gets off.

We creep onwards, stop at Barnes, but don't open the doors as we aren't supposed to stop there (today). Held on signal for so long that guard relents and lets people on. Tells them not stopping till Waterloo. Half of them get back off again.

Eventually leave, pick up a decent bit of speed. Stop in between Wandsworth Town and Clapham Junction. Engine goes off, lights and heating go off. Sit there in the dark for 5 minutes. No announcement. Lights on, engine on, off we go. Finally get to Waterloo 1 hour and 20 minutes after we left. A 35 minute journey.

Coffee at Waterloo most welcome.  Shouldn't have worn the extra layer between Gore thermal jacket and vest top though - I was way too hot 2 miles later.

Currently showing delays on the Reading to Waterloo line of 2 hours!

Looking out the window over Buckingham Palace Gardens, looks like a usual damp London day and the sun is coming out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 05 December, 2012, 10:54:11 am
Quote from: SJSBrompton on 05 December, 2012, 10:42:26 am
Slippery rails .... FFS its a teeny sprinking of snow for all of 5 mins, sleet for 10 mins, and then it stopped. Got to Feltham station at 07:07 for the 07:11 train, 07:05 was in the platform still, not that unusual.

It was still there at 07:25 after lots of puffing and spitting. Doors locked so we are all still standing there. Was packed though so whatever.

07:11 comes in and leaves at 07:30. Gets as far as Brentford and guard says train is running fast to Waterloo, there is another train behind if you want anything in between. I stay on as that works for me. Half the train gets off.

We creep onwards, stop at Barnes, but don't open the doors as we aren't supposed to stop there (today). Held on signal for so long that guard relents and lets people on. Tells them not stopping till Waterloo. Half of them get back off again.

Eventually leave, pick up a decent bit of speed. Stop in between Wandsworth Town and Clapham Junction. Engine goes off, lights and heating go off. Sit there in the dark for 5 minutes. No announcement. Lights on, engine on, off we go. Finally get to Waterloo 1 hour and 20 minutes after we left. A 35 minute journey.

Coffee at Waterloo most welcome.  Shouldn't have worn the extra layer between Gore thermal jacket and vest top though - I was way too hot 2 miles later.

Currently showing delays on the Reading to Waterloo line of 2 hours!

Looking out the window over Buckingham Palace Gardens, looks like a usual damp London day and the sun is coming out.

Arrived S'dale Station at 7:34 for the 7:37 to Winnersh Triangle, passengers waiting on platform state that as yet the 7:07 has not been seen. Informed that it is stuck on the gradient at Virginia Water, 7:37 is now stuck behind it.

School kids arrive to get the 8:07, suggest they activate alternatives / get lifts with friends parents.

7:07 eventually arrives at 8:30, train crawls into station everyone boards, guard announces train is now fast to Reading almost everyone gets off.

7:37 arrives at 8:40 and we all board, by Martins Heron it's standing room only. Eventually arrive at work at 9:10 should have been in an hour earler and would have been half an hour earlier if I had ridden in but the marathon winters won't arrive till tomorrow and the boroughs have previous for not gritting.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 05 December, 2012, 11:21:19 am
Slush!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 05 December, 2012, 12:28:58 pm
No ice in the rural bits at all, got to work in town to find the road like a sheet of glass  ??? still kept the slicks rubber side down, just.

Looking at the forecast I'd say it's spikes tomorrow
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 05 December, 2012, 12:38:49 pm
I'll be fettling tonight I think.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 05 December, 2012, 01:00:32 pm
I wasn't aware that there was any ice around and got to work fine, oblivious to any danger, then slithered about on foot between the bike shed and the building.  Several colleagues reported skidding on their motor vehicle commutes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 05 December, 2012, 01:22:04 pm
Quote from: matthew on 05 December, 2012, 10:54:11 am
Quote from: SJSBrompton on 05 December, 2012, 10:42:26 am
Slippery rails .... FFS its a teeny sprinking of snow for all of 5 mins, sleet for 10 mins, and then it stopped. Got to Feltham station at 07:07 for the 07:11 train, 07:05 was in the platform still, not that unusual.

It was still there at 07:25 after lots of puffing and spitting. Doors locked so we are all still standing there. Was packed though so whatever.

07:11 comes in and leaves at 07:30. Gets as far as Brentford and guard says train is running fast to Waterloo, there is another train behind if you want anything in between. I stay on as that works for me. Half the train gets off.

We creep onwards, stop at Barnes, but don't open the doors as we aren't supposed to stop there (today). Held on signal for so long that guard relents and lets people on. Tells them not stopping till Waterloo. Half of them get back off again.

Eventually leave, pick up a decent bit of speed. Stop in between Wandsworth Town and Clapham Junction. Engine goes off, lights and heating go off. Sit there in the dark for 5 minutes. No announcement. Lights on, engine on, off we go. Finally get to Waterloo 1 hour and 20 minutes after we left. A 35 minute journey.

Coffee at Waterloo most welcome.  Shouldn't have worn the extra layer between Gore thermal jacket and vest top though - I was way too hot 2 miles later.

Currently showing delays on the Reading to Waterloo line of 2 hours!

Looking out the window over Buckingham Palace Gardens, looks like a usual damp London day and the sun is coming out.

Arrived S'dale Station at 7:34 for the 7:37 to Winnersh Triangle, passengers waiting on platform state that as yet the 7:07 has not been seen. Informed that it is stuck on the gradient at Virginia Water, 7:37 is now stuck behind it.

School kids arrive to get the 8:07, suggest they activate alternatives / get lifts with friends parents.

7:07 eventually arrives at 8:30, train crawls into station everyone boards, guard announces train is now fast to Reading almost everyone gets off.

7:37 arrives at 8:40 and we all board, by Martins Heron it's standing room only. Eventually arrive at work at 9:10 should have been in an hour earler and would have been half an hour earlier if I had ridden in but the marathon winters won't arrive till tomorrow and the boroughs have previous for not gritting.


matthew

Check the trains before you leave, or leave early if you can.  Currently SWT are running a 'special timetable' with trains running only once an hour from this end.  I'll probably get the tube, and leave early so it is not quite so crowded (hopefully).  The route home from the tube station is actually better than the one from the train station (but getting on a rush hour tube is nigh on impossible at Hyde Park Corner).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 05 December, 2012, 01:33:43 pm
I have a sneaking suspicion that, statistically speaking, winter has happened every year for at least the last thousand years. probably more.

Why the feck does this countries infrastructure management prepare for this inevitable event by failing to prepare ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 05 December, 2012, 01:59:00 pm
Quote from: SJSBrompton on 05 December, 2012, 01:22:04 pm

matthew

Check the trains before you leave, or leave early if you can.  Currently SWT are running a 'special timetable' with trains running only once an hour from this end.  I'll probably get the tube, and leave early so it is not quite so crowded (hopefully).  The route home from the tube station is actually better than the one from the train station (but getting on a rush hour tube is nigh on impossible at Hyde Park Corner).
Thanks for the heads up, the change from 2 trains / hr to 1 is not major but could have been highly annoying.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 05 December, 2012, 02:52:21 pm
The snow had started to melt significantly by the time I left the house, there was some on my road, but once I'd turned off of that, it had mostly gone.

By the time I was half way in to central(ish) London, there was virtually no evidence of any snow fall.  Crossing Totting Bec Common there was a little bit of snow on the grass, but after that nothing to be seen.

Putting the Winter Marathons on, combined with a 10 to 15mph headwind, made it relatively hard work cycling in, but there's a fairly consistent forecast of ice tonight, so the studs should solve any problems with that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 December, 2012, 02:56:26 pm
I've just been up to Telegraph Track.  There's no ice and very little snow in evidence, but the roads are wet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 05 December, 2012, 03:05:22 pm
The snow never made it as far as Stockwell AFAIK – I awoke to the sound of rain and no snow whatsoever. Funny to think it was snowing only 3 or 4 miles away.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 05 December, 2012, 03:11:45 pm
i wonder if i get away without studded tyres this winter (didn't need them in london before..)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 December, 2012, 04:27:43 pm
I've only once or twice wished for studded tyres near central London.  The nearer you are to the river, the less likely they are to be useful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 05 December, 2012, 06:20:43 pm
I just rolled down from central London to the steppes of Greater Croydonia. Wet roads but fortunately no ice yet. I did do a splendid ten metre skid though, but I think that was road slime. You know the feeling, you put on the brake and nothing much happens other than the back end of your bike starting to discover that it has a mind of its own. Marathon Pluses aren't very grippy in these conditions, I find. Escalated my caution level after that.

Pedestrian walked into me earlier as I waited at the lights by some roadworks on Tooley Street. I wasn't even moving, just sitting there. She walked off huffing and puffing and darkly muttering and then once on the pavement yelled "you could have said sorry, wanker" which was charming. Bored and sarcastic workman who either minding the lights or skiving off real work remarked 'at least she has her personality.'

Ah, it must be the festive season.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 05 December, 2012, 06:57:02 pm
Cretinous motorists galore. And I nearly lost the back wheel on a roundabout.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 05 December, 2012, 07:14:49 pm
Quote from: simonp on 05 December, 2012, 06:57:02 pm
I nearly lost the back wheel on a roundabout in the lake-of-pigs.

Spent most of the journey wishing I had a working car.
MTFU fboab, there's a lot of winter still to come  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 05 December, 2012, 07:16:00 pm
Quote from: clarion on 05 December, 2012, 04:27:43 pm
I've only once or twice wished for studded tyres near central London.  The nearer you are to the river, the less likely they are to be useful.

Have yours arrived yet?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 05 December, 2012, 07:27:01 pm
Quote from: simonp on 05 December, 2012, 06:57:02 pm
Cretinous motorists galore. And I nearly lost the back wheel on a roundabout.

I watched a chap in the van cut across all three lanes of the E&C roundabout to go around the inside and then cut back across three lanes to take an exit. At excessive speed. While on the phone. Gained him a chorus of beeps and precisely nothing in terms of progress, since he was still at the next set of lights by the Strata building (do those fans every spin?) when I overtook him. I hope the next time he looks up that an albatross shits in his face.

I also watched an odd lady really struggling to drive in a straight line through Dulwich. It was as though the lines in the middle of the road and the pavement were playing pong with her car. I wasn't sure if she was drunk or dozy, but she passed me with millimetres to spare and I decided best to give her a very wide berth.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil W on 05 December, 2012, 08:11:06 pm
Spent the commute in off road snowy heaven whilst the A1 a field away was at a standstill
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 05 December, 2012, 08:57:08 pm
It snowed earlier and is about 3 degrees now but with a double scarf, thinsulate gloves and hat and long johns after a few miles I was too hot. The Wild Man has been renoveated and the brewery have spent £200k on it so hopefully it will be less smashy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 December, 2012, 09:28:09 pm
Quote from: Lindagordinho on 05 December, 2012, 07:16:00 pm
Quote from: clarion on 05 December, 2012, 04:27:43 pm
I've only once or twice wished for studded tyres near central London.  The nearer you are to the river, the less likely they are to be useful.

Have yours arrived yet?

;D  Yes, they are sitting in my dining room waiting to be refitted.  Which I think pretty much guarantees a mild winter, no?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 05 December, 2012, 09:35:04 pm
Ah! The dining room.
Where else would one keep his studded tyres?





Asks the man with a bike in his living room and a frame on a comfy chair. Best not to list all the other bike bits lying around ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 05 December, 2012, 10:24:33 pm
Quote from: ian on 05 December, 2012, 07:27:01 pm
..... the Strata building (do those fans every spin?) ........

No.
They were decommissioned shortly after the building was made available to its new tenants.
Apart from generating electricity they apparently generated enough noise and vibration to cause those occupying the prime-rate top floor to complain vociferously.
Thus their rotational glory was short-lived.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 05 December, 2012, 10:48:36 pm
Quote from: teethgrinder on 05 December, 2012, 09:35:04 pm
Ah! The dining room.
Where else would one keep his studded tyres?

Living room, hanging from the stoker bars of the tandem.  When they're not on the bike, obviously.

ETA: Just realised there's a 20" Marathon Winter lurking in the cupboard under the stairs, too.  At least I think there is.  Not seen it for a while...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 05 December, 2012, 10:55:55 pm
Hallway, hung from a spare seatpost on the shelf obviously ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 05 December, 2012, 11:17:19 pm
On the bike, naturally.  Until sometime late in May, or was it June.....

I wonder if they've gone back on yet this winter?

(not mine, obv., since I don't own any)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 05 December, 2012, 11:48:47 pm
I think it may well be milder now than it was this morning, even though there were/are dire forecasts of low temperatures tonight (Heathrow and Gatwick are both currently reporting 0°C, which I find surprising, I didn't think it was that cold).

Very little evidence of any ice, but maybe if the temperature does drop a few more degrees overnight, it could be icier in the morning.  I think I'll leave the Marathon Winters on for tomorrow, but it look like the week ahead may be mild, and ice free, in which case it may make sense to swap back to the slicks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CJBrewer on 06 December, 2012, 12:49:35 am
Had fun negotiating the Lambeth South roundabout (approaching on Lambeth Road and intending to cross the bridge).

I took the LH lane, following on from the Bus lane -- would have been fine but for a slightly impatient moton behind me and some numty in the RH lane deciding just too late that they needed to turn left.  I bailed out onto a pedestrian island as there was nowhere else to go...

I'm not sure which lane to be in there, and none of the motorised traffic does either -- if you take the RH lane some taxi driver is bound to cut in on the left; if you take the LH lane you annoy everyone who wants to take the embankment road to the Left and still have to cut into the rest of the traffic.  There are plans to redesign the North roundabout but I find the South one is a lot more confusing.


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 December, 2012, 06:11:12 am
Quote from: Kim on 05 December, 2012, 10:48:36 pm
Quote from: teethgrinder on 05 December, 2012, 09:35:04 pm
Ah! The dining room.
Where else would one keep his studded tyres?

Living room, hanging from the stoker bars of the tandem.  When they're not on the bike, obviously.

ETA: Just realised there's a 20" Marathon Winter lurking in the cupboard under the stairs, too.  At least I think there is.  Not seen it for a while...

Don't be daft.  You can't keep bikes and bits in the living room! :o

That's full of camping gear. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 06 December, 2012, 08:47:24 am
-3. Ice. No grit except on the A143, which I cross, rather than ride along.
Above the ice, a dusting of powdery snow.
And me. Eyes firmly forward, thinking of fluffy kittens and mittens and mince pies, desperately not trying to think about slipping, sliding, and worst of all, landing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 06 December, 2012, 08:53:50 am
Brrrrr - first stalactitesbeardytites of the season. SNO still in hiding :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 06 December, 2012, 08:54:24 am
Did my once/twice a week 80km commute to my office yesterday. As I was just going to meet some suppliers, I didn't take the laptop and rode the condor - a lot lovelier than riding the fixed with however many kilos of laptop etc. on it.

Temperature dropped quickly at the end of the day, it was below freezing in Beaconsfield when I left for home and I considered doing the boring main road route, but kept on the welders lane, joiners lane, hare field route - and it was great! 

Wish I could ride the condor every commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 06 December, 2012, 08:59:28 am
Altered route today as the lanes are still damp and would have been very icy.

http://www3.hants.gov.uk/roads/winter-maintenance/road-salting.htm

and their West Berkshire equivalent were very helpful for route planning.  Everything they claimed to have gritted en route was so arrived safely despite -3 everywhere   8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Speshact on 06 December, 2012, 09:03:27 am
Quote from: CJBrewer on 06 December, 2012, 12:49:35 am
Had fun negotiating the Lambeth South roundabout (approaching on Lambeth Road and intending to cross the bridge).

I took the LH lane, following on from the Bus lane -- would have been fine but for a slightly impatient moton behind me and some numty in the RH lane deciding just too late that they needed to turn left.  I bailed out onto a pedestrian island as there was nowhere else to go...

I'm not sure which lane to be in there, and none of the motorised traffic does either -- if you take the RH lane some taxi driver is bound to cut in on the left; if you take the LH lane you annoy everyone who wants to take the embankment road to the Left and still have to cut into the rest of the traffic.  There are plans to redesign the North roundabout but I find the South one is a lot more confusing.

It's a shocking design.

FWIW, I approach in bus lane, towards the right hand side of the lane, with much looking over shoulder and ahead for people moving left as soon as the bus lane ends. If I have seen the lights turn red I might go between the lanes to the ASL, and position myself again in the right hand of the left hand lane, look back at drivers and signal that I am going right. Setting off I keep signalling right while looking back over my right shoulder mainly to check that I'm not going to be taken out by someone in the right hand lane going straight on rather than over the bridge. I check occasionally over the left hand shoulder to ensure no-one's undertaking me to go over the bridge. Depending on what's happening there I decide which of the nearside or middle lanes to take half way round the roundabout.



Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 06 December, 2012, 09:29:16 am
I use Lambeth bridge roundabouts on my commute too. I think I pretty much do what Speshact does, but it is an appalling design. I basically expect crap behaviour from others.

I took Rob’s Brommie this morning, to see if I can get on with it. It is about as different a ride to the Gazelle as you could imagine and it was rather a careful ride. Perhaps stupid to take a small-wheeled bike that I’ve never done a proper ride on before on an icy morning, but as Clarion says, ice is not often a problem in central London, and I only live 2.5 miles from work. And it was much easier to carry down the stairs into the secure basement at the office (I know I could stick it under my desk, but not yet sure if the powers that be would like that, and it would mean waiting for the lift).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JJ on 06 December, 2012, 09:31:35 am
Slippy slidy wibbly wobbly, and that was just the bike.

Walked quite a lot of it.  Rode the verge for some.  Relieved when I reached the main road and got going at last, only to find, as I reached the first car-jam that the rims were iced up.  Interesting braking.

I think I'll run home tonight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 06 December, 2012, 09:43:10 am
Not nearly as bad as I was expecting.
I did do my "Cyclist wearing a double bed" impression though, and got a bit over toasty.
Nice to know that I'll be OK for several degrees lower yet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 06 December, 2012, 10:01:49 am
Last nights commute home started 2 1/2 hours late- reminder to fuzzy, don't answer the phone when returning to the office post puncture repair to collect the recharging light ::-) Cracking ride home with muppet and ice free roads.

Chuffing cold this morning however. Took the shorter, more vehicle travelled roads this morning- less frost on the roads.

Got passed by an articulated truck in Maidenhead in a manner that suggested the driver had not seen 'War on the roads'.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 06 December, 2012, 11:10:47 am
No ice tyre bike available yet, fettling still needed. So main road route.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 06 December, 2012, 12:20:58 pm
fitted my ice tyres last night. didn't need them this morning of course and am having to re-learn the bike's handling all over again as they are:
Very heavy, so there is a bit of gyroscopic weirdness going on during cornering
A different profile, so behaviour into a turn is not the same as before
Set at a different pressure, so feel slightly odd at times.
Very noisy thanks to over 300 studs between them.

Otherwise an unexceptional, if a bit noisy, commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 06 December, 2012, 12:22:32 pm
Now I remember why I lose weight in the winter, its bleedin hard work getting them snow studs to roll along at 18mph. Took 50 mins to cover 12 miles  ::-)

Worth it though one section of Sinderland Lane was 250 yards of polished glass where the flooding run off has frozen, cue much slipping and spinning from the motons who still won't slow down.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 06 December, 2012, 08:55:45 pm
uneventful commute apart from a bully in Warren Road, Leyton http://goo.gl/FMrHo (http://goo.gl/FMrHo) where a VW didn't like me taking primary, and forced me out to the side. That road was full of parked cars on both sides and I was doing about 20mph.
I hope his behaviour is not the result of watching yesterday's BBC documentary.

edit: now on yoo toobe http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VIHFqBBL4bw
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 06 December, 2012, 11:43:50 pm
My tendency is to ride that bit in the cycle lane, being aware of the doors and moderating my speed accordingly. In fact, I'm particularly careful from Ruckholt Road all the way round to Cathall. It's a shitty bit of road at the best of times with shitty drivers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 06 December, 2012, 11:55:39 pm
Quote from: boabacca on 06 December, 2012, 08:47:24 am
-3. Ice. No grit except on the A143, which I cross, rather than ride along.
Above the ice, a dusting of powdery snow.
And me. Eyes firmly forward, thinking of fluffy kittens and mittens and mince pies, desperately not trying to think about slipping, sliding, and worst of all, landing.

Just so as y'know....

Proud of you, I am.  Challenging your own boundaries is hard.  But often A Good Thing.  Plus the feckers'd sack you eventually if you didn't turn up, so, y'know... Stay safe petal and keep thinking of the mint spies.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 07 December, 2012, 12:04:25 am
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 06 December, 2012, 11:55:39 pm
keep thinking of the mint spies.

They hide in the toothpaste, y'know...
Title: Re: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 07 December, 2012, 05:55:30 am
Quote from: Ham on 06 December, 2012, 11:43:50 pm
My tendency is to ride that bit in the cycle lane, being aware of the doors and moderating my speed accordingly. In fact, I'm particularly careful from Ruckholt Road all the way round to Cathall. It's a shitty bit of road at the best of times with shitty drivers.
Yes.. probably the pragmatic approach works best here.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 07 December, 2012, 09:29:19 am
i wish i wasn't writing this....... yet another cyclist accident at the horrible junction where jamaica road splits into tanner and tooley streets. a lady cyclist on the floor, paramedics and ambulance teams doing their best, bike mangled beyond recognition.. i just hope there's nothing too serious and she gets well soon! iirc, that's a third major cycle accident at this junction this year - that place must be redesigned!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 07 December, 2012, 09:31:34 am
Wow!  I had a lesson in winter complacency this morning.  As I left the house I noticed it was several degrees warmer than earlier in the week, it had just stopped raining and all looked good.  I wouldn’t need to stick to the main roads.
I got my first warning as my front wheel skittered on a sharp left which thankfully woke me up to the fact that the recent rain was lying on the road and now freezing, particularly on slopes and hollows exposed to the biting north wind.
So I’m coming down a slight incline on a back road when I simultaneously notice two things at the bottom.
1)   A car approaching slowly and appearing to give way from the left
2)   The junction area is a curb to curb sheet of ice.
The wheels of the car stop.  Good
The car continues to exit the side road.  Bad
I knew I couldn’t brake or steer sharply, the driver panicked and tried to steer causing him to continue to exit but now pirouetting as well.
Somehow we missed each other.  But now the good bit.  Once stopped, we both congratulated each other and exchanged smiles and good wishes.
This is how it should be.
I hope he is still feeling as good about our interaction as I am right now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 07 December, 2012, 10:03:16 am
That’s great Basil (the reaction that is)!

I had a big lorry next to me as we both waited behind a bus and I strained my head round to make sure the driver could see me (I’m even more paranoid about not being seen on the Brommie as it feels so tiny compared to my big Dutch bike). He looked over and we made eye contact. He then let me go first and hung some way behind me for a while until he turned left, rather than steaming past me and trying to get in front to potentially left-hook me. I wish I had made a note of who he was driving for so I could email them.

But hey, apparently it’s a war out there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 07 December, 2012, 10:16:24 am
What she said.
What war?

Two cement mixers on Queenstown Road yesterday morning, both deliberatley hanging back to leave a gap so that a stream of cyclists could weave past the bus in the bus stop. They basically waited until the bus moved off before starting off again.
Both of them were Cemex.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 07 December, 2012, 10:26:07 am
Alex, from the conversations I have had, via email, with Cemex staff, they have a policy of strict driver training AND cyclist awareness.  I have only ever had careful, considerate driving from their drivers (one even followed me, at a safe distance down a road until it was completely clear for him to pass, then he passed on the opposite side of the road.  This earned him a gold star email from me!)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 07 December, 2012, 11:47:25 am
Back on the road bike, slick tyres and a stonking tailwind made it feel like I was absolutely flying :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 07 December, 2012, 12:00:53 pm
Quote from: alexb on 07 December, 2012, 10:16:24 am
Two cement mixers on Queenstown Road yesterday morning, both deliberatley hanging back to leave a gap so that a stream of cyclists could weave past the bus in the bus stop. They basically waited until the bus moved off before starting off again. ...

I've never had a problem with the cement trucks around Queenstown Road, and I've been going through there more or less every day, for at least the last eight years.  Having said that, Queenstown Road is pretty wide at that point, with a bus lane, so it would be difficult for them to cause a problem, other than at peak times when there's a lot of stationary traffic (which I avoid, for that reason).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 07 December, 2012, 02:23:38 pm
On the awkward bit of one of my Friday commutes, on the B1228, I have found that 99% of the HGV and bus drivers are really considerate towards cyclists.  I often (as in pretty much every other Friday, multiple times per trip) have cause to thank 'em with big cheerful waves and grins and thumbs up, and in the last year I reckon there's only been 2 or 3 occasions when I've had a dodgy overtake by one of 'em along there.  There's a lot of good driving out there too.

Although today I didn't test that theory, wimped out and got a lift :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 07 December, 2012, 02:31:23 pm
I find that HGV drivers are, in general, the good guys.  Contrary to the stereotype, an alarming number of van drivers are too.

Round here it's taxis and buses with an 'X' in the number you have to watch out for.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 07 December, 2012, 02:34:49 pm
Taxis, buses and many HGVs are fine 9 times out of ten IME.

It’s the skip or scaffold lorries you need to watch out for. Luckily these tend to rattle alarmingly so you are at least warned of their approach of you’ve got half-decent hearing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 07 December, 2012, 04:11:30 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 07 December, 2012, 02:34:49 pm
Taxis, buses and many HGVs are fine 9 times out of ten IME.

It’s the skip or scaffold lorries you need to watch out for. Luckily these tend to rattle alarmingly so you are at least warned of their approach of you’ve got half-decent hearing.

I believe certainly the skip lorry drivers are paid 'per drop', so the motivation to put their foot down is increased.

Good ride to a couple to sites today apart from a good old head wind heading back home.

Saw one of my clients (very rare thing in my weird world) being dropped off outside his house (which I had just been in to do some work). He complimented me on being "all ecological and shit" (his words)!  He is a terribly nice chap, but he was being dropped off in his enormous Porsche Cayanne thing and I know that their private jet is taking them away this weekend.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 07 December, 2012, 06:04:31 pm
WVM driving erratically. Van very much emblazoned with the (local) company logo. Yes, he was on his phone. Email sent when I got home, which might just have been BCC'd to Tayside police. Really not amused by people taking liberties with other's safety.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 07 December, 2012, 09:20:51 pm
rode 10 miles of the 17 home. Diverted to visit sister and her kids en route so then dropped down to Bracknell station for the remainder of the journey.

Marathon Winters are noisy and heavy but very reassuring.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 07 December, 2012, 10:33:33 pm
Quote from: yellowhammer on 07 December, 2012, 04:45:40 pm
..... The only downside I can see is that it's got me looking at Moultons, the TSR2 in particular... 8)

That's you a bit snookered then, mate  ;).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 10 December, 2012, 09:59:58 am
Sodding ice all over the cycle path. As soon as I tried going over 20kph, rear wheel just wove its own path. Pedestrians were walking in the long grass and bramble rather than try the path.

Ended up riding on A64 where there isn't any hard shoulder, so was in the main carriageway. Not fun at all.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 10 December, 2012, 12:20:48 pm
I should have brought the bike in on the train this morning but due to low level lurgy I left it behind.

Now a burst water main has flooded the line between the office and home so it will be rail replacement busses most of the way and the train for one stop.  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 December, 2012, 12:43:37 pm
Oh dear, that's just not fair, is it?

I wasn't looking forward to my commute this morning.  There was a touch of ice on the roads at first, but it was clear further on.  Still cold, mind.

Butterfly left home just before me, as I wasn't quite ready to go out when she had to ride off for her train.  I could have decided to go a bit later, but I opted for the chance to do a bit more extra before work.  Unfortunately, I didn't quite catch Butterfly before she turned off, though I did see her at the junction. :(

The whole route was crammed with vehicles, although there were still a lot of cyclists out.  A quick check at one junction showed fifteen waiting for the lights to change with me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 10 December, 2012, 12:48:12 pm
Folder on the train seems to work :). Nice short ride; nice warm, only slightly late, train; nice short, mostly down hill, ride. Arrived at work slightly earlier than if I had caught the bus from the station and not so tired that I fell asleep before lunch  :). I even had the energy to do the school run on the bike.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 10 December, 2012, 01:15:00 pm
The increase in commuting cyclists has been quite significant in Brum over the last few years.  However, most notable of all this year, is the number who have continued over the winter.

Although the numbers in the summer have risen every year, the winter numbers always stayed static.  I'd only see the same few hardened souls that I've been seeing for years.  This is the first year that I've realised that the winter drop-off is not so marked.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 10 December, 2012, 01:20:26 pm
Quote from: Basil on 10 December, 2012, 01:15:00 pm
The increase in commuting cyclists has been quite significant in Brum over the last few years.  However, most notable of all this year, is the number who have continued over the winter.

Although the numbers in the summer have risen every year, the winter numbers always stayed static.  I'd only see the same few hardened souls that I've been seeing for years.  This is the first year that I've realised that the winter drop-off is not so marked.

That phenomenon started a couple of years ago on my commute, but this year the numbers seem to have hardly dropped at all. I think the rubbish summer and fairly mild winter has toughened everyone up :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 10 December, 2012, 02:23:01 pm
Quote from: Basil on 10 December, 2012, 01:15:00 pm
The increase in commuting cyclists has been quite significant in Brum over the last few years.  However, most notable of all this year, is the number who have continued over the winter.

Although the numbers in the summer have risen every year, the winter numbers always stayed static.  I'd only see the same few hardened souls that I've been seeing for years.  This is the first year that I've realised that the winter drop-off is not so marked.

Agreed.  My sample is mostly people travelling to the University, both staff and students.  There's been an awful lot more cycling this academic year, no doubt due to the restrictions on car parking, and there doesn't seem to have been a big drop off in numbers as you'd usually expect when it got dark enough in the evenings to need lights (okay, a substantial number of student BSOists don't bother with lights).  It's only since it's become icy that people are cycling less.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 10 December, 2012, 03:19:15 pm
Quote from: David Martin on 07 December, 2012, 06:04:31 pm
WVM driving erratically. Van very much emblazoned with the (local) company logo. Yes, he was on his phone. Email sent when I got home, which might just have been BCC'd to Tayside police. Really not amused by people taking liberties with other's safety.

Quote

As I made my way home tonight (7th December) at around 5pm at the junction of xxxx and xxx I noticed one of your vans being driven somewhat erratically. THe registration of the van in question was xxxxxxx. The reason for this was that the driver, a male with short dark hair,  was attempting to drive whilst using a mobile phone held to his ear (with his left hand, hence the somewhat erratic driving as he couldn't use the gear stick).

Please could you assure me that $company do not condone this behaviour and that you will bring this complaint to the driver's attention. As a regular cyclist and driver around Dundee I am all to aware of the need to pay full attention to the road, especially in the current weather conditions, not withstanding the negative impression this gives of your company.

I look forward to hearing from you in due course.

Dr David Martin

Quote
Dear Dr Martin,

Thank you for bringing to our attention the behaviour of our driver
in vehicle $vehiclereg on the evening of Friday 7th December at approx.
5p.m.

$companyname certainly do not condone this sort of behaviour and all
of our engineers including the driver of $vehiclereg are issued with Bluetooth
and hardwired hands free kits as part of our company policy concerning the  use of mobile phones whilst driving a company vehicle.

I have this morning had a meeting with the engineer in question and he has
informed me that his Bluetooth unit had stopped working the day before the
incident, however he had not used his hardwired hands free kit or in fact delayed taking the call until he had pulled over, and it was safe to do so, by his own admission, and has therefore been issued with a verbal warning regarding this matter.

At $companyname we take great pride in our company reputation with safety
at the top of our priorities list, on behalf of our company I would like to
thank you for bringing this matter to our attention and apologise for any
distress our driver's actions caused you at the time.

Yours Sincerely

$GeneralManager


I'd call that a result.

..d
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: red marley on 10 December, 2012, 03:24:31 pm
Nice one. Good to see the old "Sorry officer, I was just this moment driving to the post office to get a new tax disc" defence is still being used.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 10 December, 2012, 03:25:05 pm
Cool. You might want to draw their attention to some research which shows you are just as likely to have a crash if you're using a hands-free phone as a hand held phone. I'm distinctly uneasy having people conduct lumps of metal in my vicinity whilst trying to hold a conversation with someone not in the vehicle.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 10 December, 2012, 03:34:25 pm
Quote from: hatler on 10 December, 2012, 03:25:05 pm
Cool. You might want to draw their attention to some research which shows you are just as likely to have a crash if you're using a hands-free phone as a hand held phone. I'm distinctly uneasy having people conduct lumps of metal in my vicinity whilst trying to hold a conversation with someone not in the vehicle.

Some of the large companies who have been my clients apply a policy of no phone calls from vehicles, even if hands-free.  That includes a couple of large oil companies.  A member of our consultancy team was thrown off a project for failing to comply with their client's policy in this matter.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 10 December, 2012, 03:37:10 pm
First Uxbridge winter commute today.  Summer route takes me down untreated roads so followed the A30 as far as Englefield Hill and then up to Uxbridge via Old Windsor, Datchet, and Iver.  Lots of red traffic lights but otherwise safe and swift journey.  Sadly will not get out of the office until 18.30 so likely not to get home until 21.00.  Still better than the 222 bus and First Great Western commute trains.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 December, 2012, 03:40:53 pm
Excellent policy, CET!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 10 December, 2012, 04:03:33 pm
Quote from: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 10 December, 2012, 03:34:25 pm
Quote from: hatler on 10 December, 2012, 03:25:05 pm
Cool. You might want to draw their attention to some research which shows you are just as likely to have a crash if you're using a hands-free phone as a hand held phone. I'm distinctly uneasy having people conduct lumps of metal in my vicinity whilst trying to hold a conversation with someone not in the vehicle.

Some of the large companies who have been my clients apply a policy of no phone calls from vehicles, even if hands-free.  That includes a couple of large oil companies.  A member of our consultancy team was thrown off a project for failing to comply with their client's policy in this matter.
That is the policy with my employers.

Working hours - use a phone (even hands-free kit) while driving = major disciplinary.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 10 December, 2012, 04:05:04 pm
Quote from: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 10 December, 2012, 03:34:25 pm
Quote from: hatler on 10 December, 2012, 03:25:05 pm
Cool. You might want to draw their attention to some research which shows you are just as likely to have a crash if you're using a hands-free phone as a hand held phone. I'm distinctly uneasy having people conduct lumps of metal in my vicinity whilst trying to hold a conversation with someone not in the vehicle.

Some of the large companies who have been my clients apply a policy of no phone calls from vehicles, even if hands-free.  That includes a couple of large oil companies.  A member of our consultancy team was thrown off a project for failing to comply with their client's policy in this matter.
We're the same here, call someone and if they are in a car:

"Are you Driving?", if yes then "how long will your journey be? and I will call you again once you have arrived." End of Call.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 10 December, 2012, 04:16:49 pm
Quote from: matthew on 10 December, 2012, 04:05:04 pm
Quote from: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 10 December, 2012, 03:34:25 pm
Quote from: hatler on 10 December, 2012, 03:25:05 pm
Cool. You might want to draw their attention to some research which shows you are just as likely to have a crash if you're using a hands-free phone as a hand held phone. I'm distinctly uneasy having people conduct lumps of metal in my vicinity whilst trying to hold a conversation with someone not in the vehicle.

Some of the large companies who have been my clients apply a policy of no phone calls from vehicles, even if hands-free.  That includes a couple of large oil companies.  A member of our consultancy team was thrown off a project for failing to comply with their client's policy in this matter.
We're the same here, call someone and if they are in a car:

"Are you Driving?", if yes then "how long will your journey be? and I will call you again once you have arrived." End of Call.

Here we do it on the basis that you can call the rep at any time, but they are not to pick up if they are driving. You leave a voicemail, which they will retrieve at the next convenient time for them and call you back.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 10 December, 2012, 04:51:16 pm
My largeish multi-national employer also prohibits the use of mobile devices (including hands free) whilst driving - anywhere in the world.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 10 December, 2012, 05:13:01 pm
Quote from: hatler on 10 December, 2012, 04:51:16 pm
My largeish multi-national employer also prohibits the use of mobile devices (including hands free) whilst driving - anywhere in the world.

And especially in their car park ...including contractors, comes as a shock to them when they get told off  ;-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 10 December, 2012, 07:12:46 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 10 December, 2012, 04:03:33 pm
Quote from: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 10 December, 2012, 03:34:25 pm
Quote from: hatler on 10 December, 2012, 03:25:05 pm
Cool. You might want to draw their attention to some research which shows you are just as likely to have a crash if you're using a hands-free phone as a hand held phone. I'm distinctly uneasy having people conduct lumps of metal in my vicinity whilst trying to hold a conversation with someone not in the vehicle.


Some of the large companies who have been my clients apply a policy of no phone calls from vehicles, even if hands-free.  That includes a couple of large oil companies.  A member of our consultancy team was thrown off a project for failing to comply with their client's policy in this matter.
That is the policy with my employers.

Working hours - use a phone (even hands-free kit) while driving = major disciplinary.

Same for some of the companies we deal with. The reps actually quite like it as it reduces their stress level - they don't have to be 'always on'

..d
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 10 December, 2012, 07:38:27 pm
I'd like to apologise and hold my hand up to say "sorry, that was entirely my fault".

Y'see I saw a gap in the traffic and modified my speed to hit the gap thus avoiding the 'stuck-in-the-side-road-for-five-minutes' scenario we know so well, but the driver ahead of the gap I was aiming for, saw me coming and slowed down, forcing me to come to a halt on the opposite carriageway and the driver to blow their horn, emergency stop and clearly have the panicked fear of someone having a bicycle aimed at them.

Sorry 'bout that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 10 December, 2012, 09:42:21 pm
Cycled in today, for the first time, on the fixer.
1h20 on the way in, 1h10 on the way home.
28ish miles round trip.
It was  8)
No more of the coughers, wheezers and sneezers on the ginger line  :thumbsup:
And I'm £34.00 per week better off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 10 December, 2012, 09:48:01 pm
Hurrah!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 10 December, 2012, 09:49:00 pm
Excellent!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 10 December, 2012, 09:52:27 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 10 December, 2012, 09:49:00 pm
Excellent!  :thumbsup:
Thanks.
There's a chance that we may cross paths.....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wowbagger on 10 December, 2012, 09:57:23 pm
Well done Jurek!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 December, 2012, 10:12:50 pm
Splendid news, Jurek.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 10 December, 2012, 10:35:10 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 10 December, 2012, 09:42:21 pm
Cycled in today, for the first time, on the fixer.
1h20 on the way in, 1h10 on the way home.
28ish miles round trip.
It was  8)
No more of the coughers, wheezers and sneezers on the ginger line  :thumbsup:
And I'm £34.00 per week better off.

Yay  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 10 December, 2012, 10:52:37 pm
totally horrible ride home. Not due to traffic - me.

I think I'm fighting off a virus. Heart racing if I try to push speed above 25kph  :(

Ice on cycle path again so all the way on the main carriageway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 10 December, 2012, 11:34:32 pm
Forgot my phone today. As I left work I joked "I'll have a major mechanical on the way home tonight and have no way to call for a lift"

Well it wasn't in the middle of nowhere (next to a convenient hotel-with-a-phone in fact) but less than 1 mile into the commute - my rear mech hanger broke for no apparent reason.


Worst mechanical failure I've had not resulting from a crash. Completely unfixable - not even "get me home bodgable" And this after four visitations in the last 3 weeks. I've offended someone, I can tell.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 11 December, 2012, 07:47:39 am
UXbridge commute yesterday was pushing the boundaries.  OK on the way back down the A30 until Camberley's "lights-that-turn-red-as-soon-as-a-bicycle-approaches" destroyed my rhythm and I reached Hampshire's wonderfully use-aggregates-so-big-that-if-they-were-any-bigger-they-would-be-cobbles section.  Do others find that in the dark you can slow down about 5mph without actually realising that you are going any slower?  Fortunately was only 10 mins late and Mrs CET had cooked marrow and tomatoes to go on top of yesterday's roast and a monster baked potato.  123km round trip.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 11 December, 2012, 08:34:51 am
I am just getting life back into my extremities.

It nearly hurts :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 11 December, 2012, 08:38:16 am
Quote from: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 11 December, 2012, 07:47:39 am
Do others find that in the dark you can slow down about 5mph without actually realising that you are going any slower? 

Yes, think the cold has something to do with it, too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 11 December, 2012, 08:40:18 am
Shorten chain and run as a singlespeed?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 December, 2012, 09:02:42 am
A pretty fast commute in this morning.  Added a loop to Waterloo and a bit of doodling to make it up to 25km.  Cold start, and a bit of ice in places, but warmed up by the time I got to work OK. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 11 December, 2012, 09:02:57 am
Overdressed for this morning's mild winter weather, but overall - I liked it. As long as it stays dry I don't mind if it stays below 0.  :)

I think tomorrow I shall begin to play a new game: count the number of bus shelters which do not have an H+M lingerie advertisement on them.  I doubt I'll get into double digits. (Current commute at least 15km each way, nearly all along bus routes.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 December, 2012, 09:04:13 am
I suspect that you notice the H&M lingerie adverts a bit more than the others ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 11 December, 2012, 09:06:28 am
Quote from: clarion on 11 December, 2012, 09:04:13 am
I suspect that you notice the H&M lingerie adverts a bit more than the others ;)

TBH, there are so many of them those without are more noticeable.  "Oh, look - an advert for something else.  How novel."
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 December, 2012, 09:10:06 am
I do know what you mean.

Meanwhile, Drive to Work Day seems to have been going well.  The way that London was gridlocked from Mitcham inwards by 0730 onwards will send an impressive message to transport planners and habitual motorists.

Except that there didn't seem to have been any drop in the number of cyclists at all!  Large numbers of us all the way, passing cars in the dozens. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 11 December, 2012, 09:49:27 am
I’m going to get some lobster claw gloves if I can find them. My little fingers got cold.

Beautiful morning though. I’ve finally stopped attempting to backpedal brake on the Brommie.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 11 December, 2012, 10:09:14 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 11 December, 2012, 09:49:27 am
I’m going to get some lobster claw gloves if I can find them. My little fingers got cold.

Can you use mitts? The Aldi skiing mitts are very warm and only £5
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 11 December, 2012, 10:12:55 am
I probably could, the gears on the Brom are changed with my thumb anyway, when I bother to change them. I don’t live anywhere near an Aldi though, I don’t think (my area of Sarf London tends towards Lidl!) so will have to look elsewhere.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 11 December, 2012, 10:23:20 am
There's a nice pair from Wiggle featured on page 24 of CityAM today - £58 though.

I have never manged to find a pair of gloves that stop my two longest fingers from going numb on days like today. Even wearing thermal glove liners doesn't work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 11 December, 2012, 10:28:40 am
I nearly stopped and called International Rescue (aka Mr Smith) as Teh Fear had me locked rigid. I decided that was tantamount to quitting my job, and remembered the Christmas Wish List No2Daughter has handily saved on the PC in my bedroom.

MTFU, however much you hate it. It's still below zero here, I guess that means the Lake Rink of Pigs will remain skate-able tonight. Yay.  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 11 December, 2012, 10:37:36 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 11 December, 2012, 09:49:27 am
I’m going to get some lobster claw gloves if I can find them. My little fingers got cold.

Beautiful morning though. I’ve finally stopped attempting to backpedal brake on the Brommie.

Miss Emily has her sights set on these, from Sealskinz http://www.sealskinz.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=2&products_id=85

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 11 December, 2012, 10:43:01 am
I might forward that link to Rob. What with the poor chap having both my birthday *and* Christmas to think of…. ;D ) It's only helpful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 11 December, 2012, 10:53:41 am
I've not tried them for a full commute, but I have a new pair of Decathlon ski mitts (http://www.decathlon.co.uk/chillheat-3-finger-mittens-id_8227919.html) that leave the first finger free while the others have their own little ménage à trois in the rest of the mitt. Seemed toasty on a shorter ride yesterday, but they've not yet been trialled on the full hour commute, which has the power to make my fingers and toes hurt like they've been dipped in liquid helium. I figure that two pairs of undergloves and those might prevent the pain. I've tried all manner of winter cycling gloves without much success. I think I have the chilly hands and feet of the undead.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 11 December, 2012, 11:56:50 am
Back on the studs today, neded up at the same speed as the road bike was yesterday due to having to take it soooooo easy through the lanes. Tired though  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 11 December, 2012, 12:27:52 pm
I got a pair of these http://www.hotpog.co.uk/basic-hotpog-mountain-bike-pogies as an early Christmas present. Fit drop and flat bars.

Did an hour last night wearing summer gloves and my hands stayed very warm
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 11 December, 2012, 01:01:24 pm
Quote from: Jacomus on 11 December, 2012, 10:37:36 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 11 December, 2012, 09:49:27 am
I’m going to get some lobster claw gloves if I can find them. My little fingers got cold.

Beautiful morning though. I’ve finally stopped attempting to backpedal brake on the Brommie.

Miss Emily has her sights set on these, from Sealskinz http://www.sealskinz.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=2&products_id=85

If they are as good as their waterproof socks then +1  I forgot my overshoes yesterday and survived long commute just in base socks and Sealskinz with only tips of big toes going blue.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tom_e on 11 December, 2012, 01:03:20 pm
Quote from: Ham on 11 December, 2012, 08:38:16 am
Quote from: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 11 December, 2012, 07:47:39 am
Do others find that in the dark you can slow down about 5mph without actually realising that you are going any slower? 

Yes, think the cold has something to do with it, too.

Yes to both of you, this is what I used to find too.


But this winter I am taking 'zillas advice:

Quote from: rogerzilla on 11 December, 2012, 08:40:18 am
Shorten chain and run as a singlespeed?

I can confirm he is entirely correct.  I no longer slow down 5mph without realising it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 11 December, 2012, 01:44:34 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 11 December, 2012, 10:12:55 am
I probably could, the gears on the Brom are changed with my thumb anyway, when I bother to change them. I don’t live anywhere near an Aldi though, I don’t think (my area of Sarf London tends towards Lidl!) so will have to look elsewhere.

There is an aldi on the Old Kent Road, although it's a bit of a way down.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 11 December, 2012, 01:55:39 pm
Is it normal to feel it so much in the legs in this weather?  I can understand it when it is windy, that makes scientific sense as it were (bl*dy headwinds on Westminster Bridge) but even without it being too windy, the last few cold days I have really felt it in the knees, even on my short commute from the station.

I have checked my tyre pressures in case I am making hard work for myself, but they are fine.

I am plenty warm enough - sometimes a little too warm as my bargain sale Gore Insulated Tour Jacket is like a lovely duvet (falling asleep on the train in it is a possibility! ;D), and I can feel a slight chill to the legs, but only slight.  I run warm anyway.  I am wearing standard thick black leggings (not padded cycle ones), over thick black opaque tights, with an extra pair of socks, and ankle boots.  But my knees and the thighs above my knees hurt like mad - but they're not cold.

Any ideas (or am I just getting old).  This is the first time I have cycled during this cold weather (was walking from station last year).



Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 11 December, 2012, 02:02:05 pm
Quote from: SJSBrompton on 11 December, 2012, 01:55:39 pm
Is it normal to feel it so much in the legs in this weather?  I can understand it when it is windy, that makes scientific sense as it were (bl*dy headwinds on Westminster Bridge) but even without it being too windy, the last few cold days I have really felt it in the knees, even on my short commute from the station.

I have checked my tyre pressures in case I am making hard work for myself, but they are fine.

I am plenty warm enough - sometimes a little too warm as my bargain sale Gore Insulated Tour Jacket is like a lovely duvet (falling asleep on the train in it is a possibility! ;D), and I can feel a slight chill to the legs, but only slight.  I run warm anyway.  I am wearing standard thick black leggings (not padded cycle ones), over thick black opaque tights, with an extra pair of socks, and ankle boots.  But my knees and the thighs above my knees hurt like mad - but they're not cold.

Any ideas (or am I just getting old).  This is the first time I have cycled during this cold weather (was walking from station last year).

Cold weather does make harder work of things, IMO. I’m wearing similar stuff to you, but no leggings. I thought I would really notice the difference with the Brommie being so much lighter than the Gazelle but it seems the same as ever.

(Also thanks Butterfly, I expect it’s in the Peckham bit, I’m not too familiar with that end)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 11 December, 2012, 02:10:27 pm
I was baffled by that on Sunday.  Undoubtedly the hardest ride of the year, in spite of being on familiar terrain and in temperatures warmer than many night rides I'd done over the year.   ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 11 December, 2012, 02:23:08 pm
Quote from: tom_e on 11 December, 2012, 01:03:20 pm
Quote from: Ham on 11 December, 2012, 08:38:16 am
Quote from: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 11 December, 2012, 07:47:39 am
Do others find that in the dark you can slow down about 5mph without actually realising that you are going any slower? 

Yes, think the cold has something to do with it, too.

Yes to both of you, this is what I used to find too.


But this winter I am taking 'zillas advice:

Quote from: rogerzilla on 11 December, 2012, 08:40:18 am
Shorten chain and run as a singlespeed?

I can confirm he is entirely correct.  I no longer slow down 5mph without realising it.


Do you still slow down but just realise it?  Or not slow down anymore?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 11 December, 2012, 06:44:16 pm
Ok. That's getting pretty chilly this evening. When I left Beaconsfield, the computer said -3.9

First ride on the Uxbridge Road route for a very long time, forgotten how boring it is. Did a laney bit on the way out past uxbridge this morning, there was quite a bit of ice, so I didn't repeat the lanes this evening.

65ish km on the clock for the day. Bit shorter than my ultra laney normal route of 80km, but that would have been very hairy today.

In town the rest of the week, so hopefully not much ice to worry about.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tom_e on 11 December, 2012, 07:16:19 pm
Quote from: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 11 December, 2012, 02:23:08 pm
Quote from: tom_e on 11 December, 2012, 01:03:20 pm


But this winter I am taking 'zillas advice:

Quote from: rogerzilla on 11 December, 2012, 08:40:18 am
Shorten chain and run as a singlespeed?

I can confirm he is entirely correct.  I no longer slow down 5mph without realising it.


Do you still slow down but just realise it?  Or not slow down anymore?

Both.  It's nudging me to work harder which means I don't slow down as much.  But the feedback mechanism is feeling the bike slow down.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 11 December, 2012, 08:29:57 pm
Rode the ice bike today, turns out most of the ride it wasn't necessary but did have a couple big areas of glassy road where I may have come unstuck on the roadie.

Hard work though, the ride in my average speed was under 10mph! And that was with me working fairly hard. Speedo wasn't working though so need to figure that out, I hope it's not the transmitter as it's only been used for about 50 miles, albeit having sat in a not entirely dry shed all year.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 11 December, 2012, 08:32:40 pm
Freezing fog: always a pleasure.
   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 11 December, 2012, 08:35:58 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 11 December, 2012, 09:49:27 am
I’m going to get some lobster claw gloves if I can find them. My little fingers got cold.

Beautiful morning though. I’ve finally stopped attempting to backpedal brake on the Brommie.

I have a pair of Assos lobsters which I've never used, nor am I likely to.
If they work for you, you're welcome to them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 December, 2012, 08:54:54 pm
Cold.

Cold cold cold cold cold.

And it's only -2c.  I'm getting nesh :-[

The road which this morning was glistening with frost, this evening was glisteninger.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 11 December, 2012, 09:17:21 pm
What's the general consensus on riding in freezing fog?
I really don't know as it's outside of my experience - it's not what I'd choose to do of a weekend.
But what's the score when you need to commute - through the urban-ness of London?
I don't really do wet.
And I'd eschew riding if there was ice on the ground.

Any words of wisdom?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 11 December, 2012, 09:32:17 pm
Ease off.  Really, swallow your pride and ease off.
Don't brake  Don't corner Don't go downhill.

Ease off approaching lights, junctions, corners.  Be pragmatic and don't get yourself into an emergency breaking situation.

Ease off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 11 December, 2012, 09:34:15 pm
Wear a dorky yellow jacket and pretend you don't need glasses.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 December, 2012, 09:43:50 pm
Get on the bike.  Pedal.  Stop at work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 11 December, 2012, 09:47:00 pm
Quote from: clarion on 11 December, 2012, 09:43:50 pm
Get on the bike.  Pedal.  Stop at work.

Oh yeah.  That's it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 11 December, 2012, 09:51:39 pm
Quote from: clarion on 11 December, 2012, 09:43:50 pm
Get on the bike.  Pedal.  Stop at work.
I think you probably have it  :D
EDIT - I'll see what it's like when I get up  :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 11 December, 2012, 09:52:52 pm
I took roads likely to be gritted. Had to wipe specs a few times.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 11 December, 2012, 10:00:41 pm
Quote from: simonp on 11 December, 2012, 09:52:52 pm
I took roads likely to be gritted. Had to wipe specs a few times.

Me too.  I'm able to stay on A roads all the way when I need to.  This morning I needed to.
I didn't realise about the specs until I'd been at work for a while.  Finally I realised that the reason I was peering and squinting at the screen was because my glasses were completely covered in mucky gunk.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 11 December, 2012, 10:05:42 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 11 December, 2012, 08:35:58 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 11 December, 2012, 09:49:27 am
I’m going to get some lobster claw gloves if I can find them. My little fingers got cold.

Beautiful morning though. I’ve finally stopped attempting to backpedal brake on the Brommie.

I have a pair of Assos lobsters which I've never used, nor am I likely to.
If they work for you, you're welcome to them.

I'd happily give them a go, please! You're welcome to some dosh for them. I know Assos doesn't come cheap...

Freezing fog, tomorrow, you say? Oh good.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 December, 2012, 10:07:01 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 11 December, 2012, 09:51:39 pm
Quote from: clarion on 11 December, 2012, 09:43:50 pm
Get on the bike.  Pedal.  Stop at work.
I think you probably have it  :D
EDIT - I'll see what it's like when I get up  :P

Careful!  The last step can be verrrrry tricky ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 11 December, 2012, 10:17:59 pm
Quote from: clarion on 11 December, 2012, 09:43:50 pm
Get on the bike.  Pedal.  Stop at work.

Make sure your lights are bright & wear a buff over your mouth to stop you from breathing in horrible freezing cold damp. 

Enjoy a well earned hot cup of tea/coffee at your desk :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 11 December, 2012, 10:20:28 pm
Quote from: clarion on 11 December, 2012, 10:07:01 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 11 December, 2012, 09:51:39 pm
Quote from: clarion on 11 December, 2012, 09:43:50 pm
Get on the bike.  Pedal.  Stop at work.
I think you probably have it  :D
EDIT - I'll see what it's like when I get up  :P

Careful!  The last step can be verrrrry tricky ;)

Tell me about it....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 11 December, 2012, 10:37:38 pm
-3 when I left the house this morning & I've gone back to knee warmers as I'm sure my leg warmers rub my knees causing bruising  :(

As far as gloves go I'm using north face windstopper gloves at the mo & they're fab.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: R_nger on 11 December, 2012, 11:18:38 pm
I didn't realise how quickly everything can freeze over...I am riding my hybrid with the gears that you can read on the handlebar (sorry, I don't know the technical term !), and I had to wipe them every ten minutes coming home as they kept frosting up !
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CJBrewer on 11 December, 2012, 11:59:37 pm
I have let the pressure in the Marathon Winters down on my folder.  Mainly to wear-in the outside studs (probably unnecessary) but with the frosty ground all it takes is for someone to have poured a bucket of warm water over their windscreen to create a patch of black ice.

I only do ~2 miles plus 1/4 on the way in, maybe an evening jaunt across to Victoria (3 miles) plus the 2mile ride home -- with the increased resistance it's been low-gear and high cadence.   High cadence is good for fitness. May winter continue for a long time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 12 December, 2012, 08:53:37 am
Last night was very frosty so stuck to the shorter, less exposed route. Made it home safely.

This morning was ver ver ver frosty on the Marlow side of the ridge but, once I had summited on Quarry Wood Road, I descended into freezing fog. Once again I stuck to the more travelled, less exposed route. I arrived safely again but had to wait until I had finished my lovely warm shower before I could find my man bits and take a pee ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 December, 2012, 09:18:12 am
-4 when we left home, and my phone app says we're still at that.  Icy (well, frosty) in various places, but not so bad once out of our road.  I kept the speed down a bit, and rode more cautiously.  I saw one cyclist run into the back of a car in Clapham (no injury; no damage), but generally everyone (car drivers included, I should add) seemed to be being sensible.
Title: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 12 December, 2012, 09:31:50 am
Heavy frost this morning but a lack of overnight precipitation meant I thought it would be safe to take the back route to the station.

I was wrong.

The wee hill, which has a tendency to become a gully in wet conditions, was covered in thick ice.

Won't be going back down that way tonight. The main road has its own hazards but at least I should have a chance of staying upright.

d.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 12 December, 2012, 10:19:56 am
very foggy first thing, but the rime ice is pretty.

^Looking on the bright side.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 12 December, 2012, 10:29:48 am
Another nice HGV Driver. A tipper truck with ‘George Dugdale’ emblazoned on it. I was about to take the turn onto Lambeth Bridge and turned to check he could see me and wasn’t about to try any funny business (lots of vehicles cut you off there). He was deliberately hanging back and smiling at me. I gave him a thumbs-up and made the turn first, safely.

I can’t find an email address for George Dugdale haulage to send him some praise, only a phone number and postal address. I should really stop being so lazy and write them a nice letter. Or send them a Christmas card!!

My feet nearly fell off last night so I switched to my Berghaus Goretex walking boots this morning. Toasty.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 December, 2012, 10:32:44 am
What's going on?  I had an HGV driver let me out into the right turning lane at Elephant & Castle this morning.  And one who was holding back to let me come up the inside (unwisely, as he worked out, since I wasn't going there, but he meant well).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 12 December, 2012, 10:33:08 am
I know there are increased risks, but I'm loving the fog.  :)  Not bothered by the cold, especially as long as it stays dry and the winds are light.  Could really use a few easy days (i.e. off the bike), but loving the commutes this week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 12 December, 2012, 10:33:36 am
George Dugdale
Dovedale Wharf Off Thames Rd
Dartford, Kent DA1 4QG
United Kingdom
tel: +44 1322359196

Oh, no email, as you said. I had an exemplary overtake on a dodgy stretch by a pink limousine and emailed them, they were pleased!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 12 December, 2012, 12:40:20 pm
Quote from: Basil on 11 December, 2012, 09:32:17 pm
Ease off.  Really, swallow your pride and ease off.
Don't brake  Don't corner Don't go downhill.

Ease off approaching lights, junctions, corners.  Be pragmatic and don't get yourself into an emergency breaking situation.

Ease off.

That's what I did last night. By the time I finished work at 8 o'clock, there was THICK fog. First time this year that toes felt cold. Like Andrij I am loving the commutes this week.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 12 December, 2012, 12:47:39 pm
*tired moany grumble*

I hate ice on my glasses due to the freezing fog, I hate having to run the studs and I hate being so ruddy tired cus I can't get it through my head that I'm not fit enough to cover 12 miles in 40 mins on a stud shod MTB.

*tired moany grumble over*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 12 December, 2012, 07:08:43 pm
On nights at the moment, so riding in after it is frozzed and home before it thaws. One particular bit of ice to avoid...

Could really feel my cheekbones this morning, and I have put away the lightweight shoes and dug out a pair of Lidl specials. Heavy, but warm. Gore winter gloves are bulky but soing the trick.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 12 December, 2012, 08:02:41 pm
To the young blonde who stepped out into the road, across the front of the bus she'd just alighted (alit?) from: please look both ways, before leaving the bus shadow.

Maybe I should have
- been going slower
- been riding further out
- been ringing my bell continuously

But we very nearly had a coming-together. I didn't have time or space to swerve behind her, which makes me think that my 12mph was excessive.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 December, 2012, 09:03:44 pm
Ooh, poor Steph!  Bet you don't even thaw out while at work.  Take great care on those roads.

It was cold in town, but probably warmer than by you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 12 December, 2012, 09:12:19 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 12 December, 2012, 10:29:48 am
........My feet nearly fell off last night so I switched to my Berghaus Goretex walking boots this morning. Toasty.

Aw! Maaaaan!
Freezing fog last night made my feet and ears feel like they'd been dipped in liquid nitrogen.
This morning was better - put on the Probike bamboo bootees = Toasty  :thumbsup:
This evening positively balmy by comparison. Even the Thinsulate hat was de-commissioned  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 12 December, 2012, 09:14:35 pm
This was why I walked..
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8504/8267130995_681acf4131_z.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davidmam/8267130995/)
Almost complete (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davidmam/8267130995/) by davidmamartin (http://www.flickr.com/people/davidmam/), on Flickr

It was a new mech so a wingeing email is on it's way to the online retailer.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 12 December, 2012, 09:27:32 pm
OK, 9.30 at night and Chainreaction cycles not only reply within minutes but will send a new mech out first post.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 12 December, 2012, 09:52:11 pm
Quote from: David Martin on 12 December, 2012, 09:27:32 pm
OK, 9.30 at night and Chainreaction cycles not only reply within minutes but will send a new mech out first post.

Cool!  That's great customer service.

I nearly lost the back end on a corner but managed to stay upright due to the road being greasy.  Got the heart rate up a bit though  :o
Title: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 12 December, 2012, 09:53:32 pm
Quote from: David Martin on 12 December, 2012, 09:14:35 pm
This was why I walked..

It was a new mech so a wingeing email is on it's way to the online retailer.

is that a cable clamp bolt snapped?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 12 December, 2012, 10:28:39 pm
Yes. Sheared off inside the arm. Took me a bit of looking to work that out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mercury on 13 December, 2012, 12:31:16 am
The bike was covered in a thin film of ice, and my eyelashes were sticking together.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 13 December, 2012, 02:26:29 am
Much the same at 2130 hours. Icy B17...couldn't read the computer for ice, and the lights needed a wipe to let them be seen.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 13 December, 2012, 06:14:43 am
Just about to leave.  I have completely wrapped my face up this morning.  Yesterday, at 6am, the freezing fog was so thick, my face was completely numb and quite painful when I arrived at work.  The schoolkeeper was quite bemused as I rode in moaning, "My face hurts!"
    Although, looking out, it's fairly clear.  Maybe the day for an extended commute over a couple of bridges.  The Thames looks beautiful on a clear frosty morning before dawn, y'know.  The marking may have to wait. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 13 December, 2012, 09:29:29 am
Has anyone worked out how to wrap up the face but not have your breath steam up your glasses?

I have prescription wrap around clear glasses from Optilabs that I use in this weather as they protect my eyes from streaming in the cold wind, my head is warm enough with the helmet, but my cheeks are freezing.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 13 December, 2012, 09:33:44 am
Quote from: SJSBrompton on 13 December, 2012, 09:29:29 am
Has anyone worked out how to wrap up the face but not have your breath steam up your glasses?

I have prescription wrap around clear glasses from Optilabs that I use in this weather as they protect my eyes from streaming in the cold wind, my head is warm enough with the helmet, but my cheeks are freezing.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/s/?ie=UTF8&keywords=airhole&tag=googhydr-21&index=aps&hvadid=7730825886&hvpos=1t1&hvexid=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=10231970931229622082&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=b&ref=pd_sl_5yi0nqb7y8_b

I have a few of these coming (they had a sale via SportPursuit), hopefully it will solve the problem for me (I wear non-prescription glasses for cycling due to dry eyes) and for Mrs T (who wears prescirption glasses)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 13 December, 2012, 09:38:52 am
I cover my mouth, the buff gets damp very quickly. On the frozen WARTY three or so years ago, it froze solid.

My Bern helmet has a winter insert with big fleecy flaps that come down over my ears and over a large part of my cheeks/face; the helmet straps keep them close to my face/ears. I’m using that at the moment. If you don’t wear a helmet there are hats that would do the same thing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 13 December, 2012, 09:45:01 am
Quote from: SJSBrompton on 13 December, 2012, 09:29:29 am
Has anyone worked out how to wrap up the face but not have your breath steam up your glasses?

I have prescription wrap around clear glasses from Optilabs that I use in this weather as they protect my eyes from streaming in the cold wind, my head is warm enough with the helmet, but my cheeks are freezing.

Ask and ye shall receive

http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=54662.msg1115173#msg1115173 (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=54662.msg1115173#msg1115173)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 13 December, 2012, 09:57:53 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 13 December, 2012, 09:38:52 am
I cover my mouth, the buff gets damp very quickly. On the frozen WARTY three or so years ago, it froze solid.

My Bern helmet has a winter insert with big fleecy flaps that come down over my ears and over a large part of my cheeks/face; the helmet straps keep them close to my face/ears. I’m using that at the moment. If you don’t wear a helmet there are hats that would do the same thing.

+1, first time I wore a buff and it got damp very quickly. On the plus side my nose did not run as much
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 13 December, 2012, 10:05:31 am
I think I'll try those Airhole masks, sounds like a great idea if they work.  Hubby has the Catcrap stuff for his motorbike visor - doh!  Will have to try that too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 13 December, 2012, 10:15:09 am
I have just had an email saying that my AirHole masks will be here tomorrow, so will get to try them on the Xmas ride!

Yippee!!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 13 December, 2012, 10:35:51 am
Normal buff damp/wet from breath - freezes and freezes face

Merino buff damp from breath - it goes to the outside of the buff and doesn't freeze to your face.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 13 December, 2012, 10:37:38 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 13 December, 2012, 10:35:51 am
Normal buff damp/wet from breath - freezes and freezes face

Merino buff damp from breath - it goes to the outside of the buff and doesn't freeze to your face.

I have to agree, and the surprising thing for me was going from a thick polar buff to a thin Embers one.

the Embers one allows air through, doesn't force it upwards, so your glasses fog less (note there is still an issue of fogging, but it is less) than with a normal or polar buff.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 13 December, 2012, 10:43:05 am
It was a little bit warmer today and no real frost so I managed to ride in on slicks for the first time in ages. Only one frozen puddle directly in front of a cattle grid caused me to dismount along the route.

I felt like I was flying along without the weight and tread of the snow studs :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 14 December, 2012, 08:28:48 am
Wet, wild and windy.  Great, after having succumbed to the Ice Fear for two days.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 14 December, 2012, 11:22:46 am
Seemingly flew to work with a tailwind, just before the rain started properly. I had an early meeting so it was very dark but the roads were much quieter. Perhaps I should get up early more often!

The best part is I have no plans to cycle home into the wind; after work I’m being taken for dinner (and wine) which means I will likely put the Brom on the tube rather than do an alcohol-fuelled ride home. Haha wind! I win!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 14 December, 2012, 11:28:42 am
My oh my! It was positively tropical this morning. I had to do away with a layer as I got dressed for the ride in :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 14 December, 2012, 11:49:33 am
Just as slow on the slicks today as I've been on the studs all week, bleedin headwind  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 14 December, 2012, 01:10:54 pm
Yep!  Headwind for me too this morning.  Hopefully it'll be warm, dry & with a tailwind on the way home tonight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 14 December, 2012, 01:19:11 pm
Managed to find a dryish less damp period for my regular fortnightly breakfast run.  My life! It was warm.  I had to stop at the top of the second hill to strip off half of what I was wearing.  Absolutely no sign at all of the predicted wind, but lots of heavy rain.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 14 December, 2012, 01:34:39 pm
Quote from: Basil on 14 December, 2012, 01:19:11 pm
Managed to find a dryish less damp period for my regular fortnightly breakfast run.  My life! It was warm.  I had to stop at the top of the second hill to strip off half of what I was wearing.  Absolutely no sign at all of the predicted wind, but lots of heavy rain.

You can have some of ours, if you want, Basil.  We have a surplus at the moment.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: phantasmagoriana on 14 December, 2012, 01:37:50 pm
We've got both. What joy. ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 14 December, 2012, 01:52:31 pm
It was bl**dy windy near Hyde Park Corner this morning.  I had to get the tube as the trains were messed up.  Coffee sucks at Pret (though it is cheap).  Raining all day - think I might tap into the taxi budget tonight - covered Brommie and taxi are a perfect match.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 17 December, 2012, 08:48:10 pm
On this road:

(http://norwichblitz.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/5406058154_4f1bc2367e_b.jpg)

Ignore the bomb damage, it's the only photo I could find. Pretty narrow, you see the chicane put in halfway down. All 4 concrete bollards have been smashed down by speeding drivers, the tree lists because someone smashed into it. On that street today a car raced up behind me, beeped just before the chicane and when I positioned myself to turn right at the junction, the driver overtook so she was completely on the wrong side of the road as we both met the junction at the same time. A driver waiting opposite just stared, open-mouthed. Mental. Then I got in and read statistically 17th Dec is the most dangerous day on the roads.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 17 December, 2012, 09:00:50 pm
Quote
London – the UK’s busiest city – doesn’t feature at all. But that’s probably due to the high number of shunts that already occur.

The rest of the top five cities are as follows:

5 ) Brighton – 2x as many accidents on 17 December

4 ) Ipswich – 3x as many accidents on 17 December

3 ) Uxbridge – 3x as many accidents on 17 December

2 ) Birmingham – 3.6x as many accidents on 17 December

1 ) Glasgow – 3.7x as many accidents on 17 December

http://cars.uk.msn.com/news/17-december-is-%E2%80%9Cdanger-day%E2%80%9D-on-uk-roads
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 17 December, 2012, 09:02:57 pm
Glad I spent the day hibernating, then...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 17 December, 2012, 09:47:18 pm
On today's train assisted journey I demonstrated to a fellow traveller the efficacy of my tyre studs by accidentally causing criminal damage to Greater Anglian property.
Sometimes I'm amazed they let me out without a guardian
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 17 December, 2012, 09:51:16 pm
Good thinking.  You could fold it in half and use it to protect things from the studs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 18 December, 2012, 09:18:23 am
I quite enjoy commuting wearing a Santa hat - I get smiles from people, and who wants to run down Santa?

Unfortunately, I think I upset someone this morning. :(  Having observed a black cab ahead of me changing lanes, as I pulled up alongside I said into his open window "Would you like Santa to bring you some indicators and a copy of the Highway Code for Christmas?".  His response definitely put him on the 'naughty' list!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 18 December, 2012, 09:37:49 am
Quote from: Kim on 17 December, 2012, 09:51:16 pm
Good thinking.  You could fold it in half and use it to protect things from the studs.

It took me a moment, but I got there eventually.  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 18 December, 2012, 09:42:36 am
Who knew Santa did sarcasm?!

Cycled behind a really dopey PCSO. He pootled along, slowed down where there was a sideroad and looked uncertain, wobbling in the middle of the road (I didn’t like to overtake him in case he pulled a sudden move) and then decided to carry on, cycling straight into a very obvious pothole whereupon his notebook and pen flew out of his (open) rackpack. He stopped a few metres on and inspected the ground directly below his bike looking perplexed; I picked up his things and took them over to him whereupon he looked quite astonished that I’d found them where he couldn’t (he did thank me though).

Another really nice HGV driver smiling and waving at me and hanging back to let me make turns safely at Lambeth Bridge RAB. I’ve been making heaps of effort to get eye contact with them at lights recently. The blokes driving the things might think I’m flirting with them, but if it means I don’t end up dead or ‘minimally conscious’, who cares. My mother and my sister have renewed their ‘why must you ride that blasted bike’ pleas since hearing about the recent HGV/dooring cases…
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 18 December, 2012, 09:50:13 am
Quote from: spindrift on 17 December, 2012, 08:48:10 pm
On this road:

...

Ignore the bomb damage, it's the only photo I could find. Pretty narrow, you see the chicane put in halfway down. All 4 concrete bollards have been smashed down by speeding drivers, the tree lists because someone smashed into it. On that street today a car raced up behind me, beeped just before the chicane and when I positioned myself to turn right at the junction, the driver overtook so she was completely on the wrong side of the road as we both met the junction at the same time. A driver waiting opposite just stared, open-mouthed. Mental. Then I got in and read statistically 17th Dec is the most dangerous day on the roads.

Oh, that's happened to me twice in the last week. On Saturday, a fat wannabe American pickup truck couldn't wait when I slowed at a junction so just went around me on the wrong side of the road. Without slowing or looking. I'd held him up for about seven seconds on the approach, so I understand the epic pressure that had built up. The windows were blacked out, so for all I know it was being driven my a monkey.

Then last week, I slowed to a junction, car behind me just pulls up alongside. It's a staggered four-way junction and there's a car wanting to come across, but now can't. I gave the driver a cheery wave which she steadfastly ignored. In fact, she completely ignored my entire presence. I turned left and left the two drivers to stare at each other across the junction. It was probably my fault.

Yesterday was altogether interesting on the roads, I don't recall being passed so closely so many times since I started cycling the London.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 18 December, 2012, 11:05:50 am
Had a slow speed collision with another cyclist. I was filtering between two lanes of stationery traffic when I saw him cutting through from the left at 90 degrees to the traffic, so I slowed down to give him space. He then stopped, so I carried on, whereupon he started moving again and executed a wobbly turn alongside me into a very narrow gap, pushing me in to the side of the car on my right. I managed to stay upright and carried on but I could hear what sounded like some abuse coming from him as I rode away. Most odd.

Other than that - what a glorious morning to be out on a bike, even in London.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 December, 2012, 11:37:58 am
Yesterday's reputation for being a dodgy day doesn't seem to have been borne out by my experience, although I did have two cars in my street dancing like John Cleese & Michael Barrymore attempting a polka, and a neighbour just round the corner pulling out directly in front of me, stopping as he blocked the entire road.  Thank heavens for good brakes!  I think the inherent squealiness of Kool-Stops may have scared him immensely.  Good.

This morning, however, there was a lot of more serious activity on the roads.  Near Tooting station (where I did, admittedly, see a bus try to turn right across the path of a cyclist heading straight on, to the extent that the cyclist had to swerve into the joining street to avoid being hit), there were three LAS vehicles.  Only one casualty visible - an adolescent, wrapped in a blanket, and sat on a wooden chair on the pavement.  There was an old white Raleigh leaning against a lamp post.  I suspect that had been his transport until lately.

At Clapham South, I was riding along the bus lane when a white van revved up and pulled sharply into the lane next to me.  I swerved, and shouted to alert them I was there, but the driver was just laughing when I saw him next.  Great.

Further on, the A3 was shut at Stockwell.  I asked a Police Officer if I might walk through the 80m taped off, but I spotted a large scooter on its side, and a form covered by a red blanket, and knew I needed to divert.

RIP.

The rest of my commute was punctuated by car drivers who were lost and turning randomly without looking.  Not safe at all.

More road closures (because of roadworks rather than incidents, thankfully) meant I diverted all the way up to Albert Embankment to get through.

Still, 26km.  Not a problem.  I might divert round a bit on the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 18 December, 2012, 11:45:20 am
Yes an interesting morning, I had to drive to a physio appointment at Frimley prior to work, driving home I saw the remains or an interation of a BMW and a Merc at a side turning. The Merc was blocking the lane and judging by the damage to the front end was going to need a low loader to move it.  :facepalm:

Then there were the two ambulence service vehicles collecting someone from the station platform when I went to get the train to work. Fortunately the gent in question was responding to chatter with the crews.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 18 December, 2012, 11:47:49 am
Flew home last night despite the crap weather, found a JCB to draft for 3 miles, you do get some strange looks doing 30+mph on a bike  ;D

This morning was perfect, no wind, warm enough and the legs were great  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 18 December, 2012, 09:11:47 pm
Mostly good ride in, though I did have a silly pissweasel pull out of a T junction across my path, nearly locked the back wheel up shrugging off speed, they just carried on, seemingly blissfully unaware I was there, which given my bellowing of a number of swears seems unlikely.

Caught up to one of the chaps I sometimes ride with further along, had a good chat awheel and swapped bikes for about 20 yards, hard to tell but his did feel more comfortable which concurs with my thinking my bike is a bit big for me.

Then I got a puncture so sat and fixed that but wasn't raining or cold so was fine. Late to work mind.

The less said about work the better  :demon:

But then I got to have a lovely ride home so things improved  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PAC on 18 December, 2012, 09:23:47 pm
Fast 46k back from Oxford this evening..averaging over 30kph which is good for this time of year :D. Retracing back to the office in the morning :thumbsup
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 December, 2012, 10:36:58 pm
I managed to get 25km in this evening, making 50km today.  Nice to do some different roads now and again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 19 December, 2012, 08:40:09 am
Brought the bike in on the train this morning as I need to go home via various places.

Had my first comment from a fellow passenger that I shouldn't take a bike on the train. My response that the cycle restrictions only apply into London in the Morning was shrugged off.

I wonder if that has anything to do with the new platform announcement 'you are not allowed to take non folding cycles on many trains from this station during the morning and evening peaks' and 'taking a non folding cycle can inconvinience your fellow passengers and cause delays'. but then I Grinked SWT about that yesterday.  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 December, 2012, 09:03:15 am
Southern have a similar announcement every few minutes on their stations.  It's repeated more often than the security awareness one.  Perhaps bicycles are more hazardous than bombs ???

Anyway, my commute was purely human powered, and I loved every minute of it.  A quick swoop down to the station with Butterfly, then on up to work, passing the odd cyclist on the way.  At Elephant and Castle, I went the 'wrong' way, up Borough High Street, then along to Westminster, Waterloo and Lambeth Bridge, where I turned back towards work.  I arrived more than half an hour early for work, having managed 25 swift kilometres.  Extending my extended commute, as it were.

There was a rider I saw from about Balham onwards, who was on a roadified Scott MTB.  He was quite fast, and kept ahead of me.  He was also a very skilled and careful rider, anticipating, observing and indicating well, holding position clearly and accommodating the errors of others.  We were close as far as Kennington before I lost him.  At one set of lights, he commented favourably on my Cyo (which I hope, in retrospect, wasn't too bright in his mirror :-[ ).

The only downside of the ride was that I got an earworm.  :(

Last night, I diverted along Embankment as far as Wandsworth, then down Garratt Lane to head home.  50km for the day.  Happy with that. :D

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 December, 2012, 09:57:33 am
Quote from: Andrij on 18 December, 2012, 09:18:23 am
I quite enjoy commuting wearing a Santa hat - I get smiles from people, and who wants to run down Santa?

Unfortunately, I think I upset someone this morning. :(  Having observed a black cab ahead of me changing lanes, as I pulled up alongside I said into his open window "Would you like Santa to bring you some indicators and a copy of the Highway Code for Christmas?".  His response definitely put him on the 'naughty' list!

Have you seen today's Yehuda Moon?

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 19 December, 2012, 10:04:32 am
Yes. (http://ecomodder.com/forum/member-piwoslaw-albums-smileys-picture2537-santa-smiley.gif)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 19 December, 2012, 10:13:10 am
Dinner last night.  Late back.  On the road at 6.25am - clear air and brisk pedal perfect cure for tired head.  Got into the office showered and ready for 8am conference call much more awake and alert than I had any right to be.   :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 19 December, 2012, 06:33:04 pm
Just poking my nose in as I haven't been entitled to for a while  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 19 December, 2012, 07:24:50 pm
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 19 December, 2012, 06:33:04 pm
Just poking my nose in as I haven't been entitled to for a while  :)

 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 19 December, 2012, 07:55:46 pm
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 19 December, 2012, 06:33:04 pm
Just poking my nose in as I haven't been entitled to for a while  :)
+1

Rode most of the way home whilst doing errands. Raced the train to the station for the last leg as it was wet, dark and I didn't fancy the A322 from Bracknell to the A30.  :-[

Pulled into the station 30seconds before the train arrived  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 19 December, 2012, 08:15:36 pm
Drizzle tonight so didn't see a fat lot of the ride home. 
Drizzle, dark & glasses do not mix very well at all  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 19 December, 2012, 08:31:14 pm
I wouldn't have fancied A322 or A30 tonight, what with the sideways rain and huge puddles.  Fortunately I was commuting back from Reading not Uxbridge so used some hardcore lanes.  Top performance from the Sealskinz socks, feet were dry without overshoes even after an hour of badly leaking sky.  Got home with grin on face, only two working days to go this year  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 19 December, 2012, 08:41:51 pm
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 19 December, 2012, 06:33:04 pm
Just poking my nose in as I haven't been entitled to for a while  :)

 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 19 December, 2012, 08:43:18 pm
Today I was badass (http://www.velominati.com/the-rules/#9). :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 19 December, 2012, 08:54:46 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 19 December, 2012, 08:41:51 pm
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 19 December, 2012, 06:33:04 pm
Just poking my nose in as I haven't been entitled to for a while  :)

 :thumbsup:

+1  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 19 December, 2012, 09:31:17 pm
Quote from: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 19 December, 2012, 08:31:14 pm
I wouldn't have fancied A322 or A30 tonight, what with the sideways rain and huge puddles.  Fortunately I was commuting back from Reading not Uxbridge so used some hardcore lanes.  Top performance from the Sealskinz socks, feet were dry without overshoes even after an hour of badly leaking sky.  Got home with grin on face, only two working days to go this year  :thumbsup:
The A30 is not bad, well lit, wide and a 50 limit with enough space for the cars to flow past. The A322 though is a 70mph+ unlit dual carriageway and the left lane can't just flow past. Therefore Martins Heron station and if I missed the train the A329 through Ascot was the preferred route. If I hadn't had errands in Bracknell then I stay north through Binfield on the Forest Road. nearer to lanes but not like your area south of Reading *looks for the green with envy smilee*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 December, 2012, 09:54:41 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 19 December, 2012, 08:43:18 pm
Today I was badass (http://www.velominati.com/the-rules/#9). :D

Or naughty bottom, at least.

Damp commute tonight - at least till I got up put of the river basin and past Brixton.  But it was fun, and I managed to round up to 25km again, despite having taken on two massive panniers of shopping before the hilly bit home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 20 December, 2012, 03:51:40 am
Riding into Middlesbrough at 18.30 on a damp December night is bloody horrible. Punishment passes by kids i n black hatchbacks with tinted windows. There must be more to life than this.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 20 December, 2012, 07:29:10 am
Not a lot of fun that
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 20 December, 2012, 07:35:05 am
Quote from: Lindagordinho on 20 December, 2012, 03:51:40 am
Riding into Middlesbrough at 18.30 on a damp December night is bloody horrible. Punishment passes by kids i n black hatchbacks with tinted windows. There must be more to life than this.

Me thinks you need to re-find your cycling Mojo.

I'll make a deal with you, you look for mine and I'll look for yours, deal?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 20 December, 2012, 08:23:36 am
If you can get these, you must be able to get SPD flippers?

(http://cdn.sheknows.com/filter/l/gallery/flipper_shoes_copy.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 20 December, 2012, 08:51:01 am
Last night, as I closed down the 'pooter (an hour late cos shit happens), I saw that it was chucking down with rain outside. Now, it is always my intention to be
Quote from: Jurek on 19 December, 2012, 08:43:18 pm
badass (http://www.velominati.com/the-rules/#9). :D
so I got togged up in my finest foul weather gear. I then started to wheel the steed towards the door when I noticed that 'Things Were Not As They Should Be'. Another chuffing visitation to the front tyre >:(

I got changed again and drove home :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 20 December, 2012, 09:17:45 am
Quote from: matthew on 19 December, 2012, 09:31:17 pm
Quote from: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 19 December, 2012, 08:31:14 pm
I wouldn't have fancied A322 or A30 tonight, what with the sideways rain and huge puddles.  Fortunately I was commuting back from Reading not Uxbridge so used some hardcore lanes.  Top performance from the Sealskinz socks, feet were dry without overshoes even after an hour of badly leaking sky.  Got home with grin on face, only two working days to go this year  :thumbsup:
The A30 is not bad, well lit, wide and a 50 limit with enough space for the cars to flow past. The A322 though is a 70mph+ unlit dual carriageway and the left lane can't just flow past. Therefore Martins Heron station and if I missed the train the A329 through Ascot was the preferred route. If I hadn't had errands in Bracknell then I stay north through Binfield on the Forest Road. nearer to lanes but not like your area south of Reading *looks for the green with envy smilee*

Crowthorne - Coral Reef - Martins Heron - A329 is on my Basingstoke to Uxbridge commute when its not icy but I only do that once a month.

Went to sleep last night to the sound of rain overflowing our leaky gutter.  Woke up to the same sound this morning.  The lanes south of Reading were even more entertaining this morning.  Arrived in the office with a smile as bright as my Christmas lunch tie  ;D ;D

[Looks out at continuing rain]  May need snorkel and those high heeled flippers tonight. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 20 December, 2012, 09:33:44 am
That was the worst weather I have commuted in for some considerable time. I picked quick drying trousers (my olympic volunteer ones) and have turend the office radiator to 'fry'. Juat about warming up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 20 December, 2012, 09:34:53 am
The bright lights, loud noises and stress of after-work Christmas shopping took their toll on me last night - a Migraine while in the shopping centre.  Half-vision, squiggly lights and pretty patterns - so I walked home rather than risking riding.  In the pouring rain.  Soaked through, and straight to bed on arrival after a 50min walk.

Head's mostly better now, but the rain's still falling.  Twice through "Singing In The Rain", and one rendition of ELO's "Mr Blue Sky" saw me get to the bike shed at work.  Whereupon the Flying Banananana went through the station, so things are looking up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 20 December, 2012, 09:37:50 am
Some of the roads in central Lunnun are half-flooded. I just about managed to avoid most of the lakes, which is good because there were probably potholes underneath them that would have swallowed little wheels.

It's very annoying that we don't have radiators in this office; my gloves would have appreciated one.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 20 December, 2012, 09:42:07 am
It was a wet day to have as the only day I have ridden all the way in for a fortnight :-\. I needed a proper sized bike so that I could bring the big panniers because it is my last day and I have stuff to take home (coat, walking shoes, track pump - that sort of thing). It was very, very slow :(. Still, not too bad, despite the discovery that my lightweight waterproof trousers need re-proofing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 December, 2012, 09:44:23 am
An odd start to the commute last night.  I rode up to the first set of lights heading towards Lambeth Bridge, and stopped behind another cyclist.  As the lights changed to green, he asked me how to get to Bermondsey Square.

'Well, it's not far' I said, 'but you're heading the wrong way'

We pulled into the middle of the road to let a car pass, as i considered how best to direct him.  Should I try to send him through the confusing old streets of Southwark, or down to the motorways of New Kent Road and Tower Bridge Road?

'Follow me' I said, and headed back past work and off the wrong way.  He was a bit slower than I'd expected, but we wound through to the back of Bermondsey Square, where I left him.

That's twice (I think) that I've diverted from a commute to lead another cyclist somewhere (last one was a Japanese lad with very little English trying to find Wimbledon from Clapham).  It's nice to be able to help.

Incidentally, I have no idea what he was planning to do at Bermondsey Square.  Every time I've been there, it's been to meet Bill.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 20 December, 2012, 09:57:27 am
Quote from: Jurek on 19 December, 2012, 08:43:18 pm
Today I was badass (http://www.velominati.com/the-rules/#9). :D

some of these "rules" are well funny, who wrote them? ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 20 December, 2012, 07:35:45 pm
Wet!  I was expecting to hit the 10,000mile mark today but I missed it by .8 of a mile.  Any other day I would've added a few miles but its that wet n horrid out there I couldn't be arsed.  I'll get it done & dusted tomorrow instead  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 20 December, 2012, 08:34:37 pm
Started my ride home after xmas lunch at 6.30pm.  Roads nicely saturated, almost epic.  Fortified by lunch decided to take the road across the ford north of Bramley and ignored the road closed sign.  Water was up to the 2' mark so at the point wisdom took over and crossed via the footpath  :smug: :smug:

Got round the corner past the farmhouse.  Lights reflected back on a deep pond of grey-brown water, well over the bottom bracket.   :facepalm:  Splodged my way through that with bucket-loads of water filling my shoes at every pedal stroke and made it to the other side.  Squeezed through the other road closed sign.

At the T-junction at the end the council workers were putting up another road-closed sign.  The "What the....." expression made my day.   ;D ;D ;D ;D :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 20 December, 2012, 09:03:05 pm
I reckon CET might win the baddestass award today!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 20 December, 2012, 09:30:10 pm
Quote from: zigzag on 20 December, 2012, 09:57:27 am
Quote from: Jurek on 19 December, 2012, 08:43:18 pm
Today I was badass (http://www.velominati.com/the-rules/#9). :D

some of these "rules" are well funny, who wrote them? ;D

No idea.
They've been doing the rounds for quite a while - surprised they've not crossed your gaze before.

JB
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 December, 2012, 10:15:44 pm
I had a good ride home, but it was into a gusty wind.  Through various back streets to Tooting Broadway, then home the normal route, past home, up the hill round TGL's old 'training loop'.  28km this evening.  Another 50km day.  It's hard, stepping it up in this weather, but so what?  I've got to work tomorrow after all (chiz), so I may throw in a circuit of RP on the way home, especially if I can get away at lunch time. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 20 December, 2012, 10:24:51 pm
Quote from: clarion on 20 December, 2012, 10:15:44 pm
I had a good ride home, but it was into a gusty wind.  Through various back streets to Tooting Broadway, then home the normal route, past home, up the hill round TGL's old 'training loop'.  28km this evening.  Another 50km day. It's hard, stepping it up in this weather, but so what?  I've got to work tomorrow after all (chiz), so I may throw in a circuit of RP on the way home, especially if I can get away at lunch time. :)

I'm starting to see how it is that your commute lends power to your elbow knee(s).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 December, 2012, 10:37:09 pm
Well, a commute of 19km each way is neither one thing nor the other, so it's always worth doing a bit of jazz impro on the routing. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 20 December, 2012, 10:39:59 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 20 December, 2012, 09:37:50 am
Some of the roads in central Lunnun are half-flooded. I just about managed to avoid most of the lakes, which is good because there were probably potholes underneath them that would have swallowed little wheels.

It's very annoying that we don't have radiators in this office; my gloves would have appreciated one.

That's such a bugger.
I'm currently trying to find a spot in my workplace where I might dry damp gloves, hats, shoes etc.
We have a forced air system in the warehouse which probably surpasses the gross energy consumption of Rwanda, but I'm b0££0xed if I can find anywhere to hang my gloves, etc from it :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 20 December, 2012, 11:52:17 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 20 December, 2012, 09:37:50 am
... It's very annoying that we don't have radiators in this office; my gloves would have appreciated one.

You need to work in IT, that's what servers are for. ;D

I was suitably badass yesterday, cycling home in 'orrible drizzle, which wasn't really very badass, but then I had to stop a couple of miles from home, and repair a fairy visitation.  I reckon the additional crapiness of doing that in the dark, and wet qualified!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Crumbling Nick on 20 December, 2012, 11:58:24 pm
It rained. It was never heavy, but it never stopped during the 39 miles. That was also almost true of the day's activity (coppicing, plus a bonfire or 2 to cook sausages, bacon, onions, chestnuts, mashmallows for lunch). Fortunately my "cutting down trees" waterproofs worked better than the cycling kit (to be replaced at Xmas), so the lower layers dried out during the day.

I took several pairs of gloves, and still had an unused pair by the time I reached home. Bonfires are not a reliable way of drying gloves if you need to have hands that can still be used afterwards ;). It's surprising what can be shoehorned into a Carradice long flap camper saddlebag (though not the wellies).

What surprised me was the increase in standing water/minor floods on the roads this evening. The rain wasn't that heavy - only a few mm during the day -  but it evidently had nowhere to go.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 December, 2012, 09:15:16 am
Not raining this morning, but it was still damp under the wheels, and there were large puddles in places - especially round Clapham Common.

As it happens, I turned off my route at CC, choosing to go down Cedars, and over Chelsea Bridge, then along Embankment to Westminster, back over the river, and along the big roads back to Borough. 

Roads were pretty empty, and there was a kind tailwind.  Just over 25km again.  I'm now about 40km over my 'normal' commute distance for this week, and I'm hoping to get away early enough to get 35km on the way home.  The more I do by myself, the less I need to drag a still-poorly Butterfly out for big miles.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 21 December, 2012, 09:38:15 am
Badbadbadass today. Light drizzle and some rain but I needed to visit Mr Tescos emporium on my way to work so I took the scenic route up the Miley, a former railway track that runs for 80% of the journey in the right direction. It was a little damp. I splashed happily through the first few puddles, then under teh bridge - the deepest so far had been foot deep (ie bottom of crank). Then I hit the big one. Bottom Bracket plus (on a MTB) and it wasn't warm either. Did the business at Tesco and had the option of heading back by road or back along the Miley.

:)

My cunningly included spare change of clothes is snug and warm, and  the rest is making friends with my office radiator.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 21 December, 2012, 09:47:23 am
A morning of "can't be bottomed"

Due to a snapped straddle cable on the rear of the Mercian (I've got at least two spares, but couldn't be bottomed at that time of the morning) I needed to switch bikes.
The Galaxy was up in the bed room, so couldn't be bottomed to struggle that down stairs, I didn't fancy the fixed, so I grabbed the son's Horizon.
Got outside and realised that it hadn't got SPDs, but couldn't be bottomed to go back in to change shoes.
Mistake.  The cleats made it very difficult to stop my feet sliding off the nasty plasic platform pedals.

Other than that, well, very pleasant on the way in.  Didn't need to wear my winter jacket.

Just the "Last Friday Before Christmas Drunken Traffic" to negotiate on the way home tonight.  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 21 December, 2012, 10:04:05 am
Oh goody, loads of people seemed to have disappeared already. Lambeth bridge almost empty. Very nice!

(Jurek, it has not yet been cold enough again to properly test out your lobsters - it's at temps close to freezing that I start to suffer)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 21 December, 2012, 11:59:07 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 12 December, 2012, 10:29:48 am
Another nice HGV Driver. A tipper truck with ‘George Dugdale’ emblazoned on it. I was about to take the turn onto Lambeth Bridge and turned to check he could see me and wasn’t about to try any funny business (lots of vehicles cut you off there). He was deliberately hanging back and smiling at me. I gave him a thumbs-up and made the turn first, safely.

I can’t find an email address for George Dugdale haulage to send him some praise, only a phone number and postal address. I should really stop being so lazy and write them a nice letter. Or send them a Christmas card!!


Despite my general avoidance of snail mail I’ve now sent them a Christmas card complimenting the driver’s behaviour and mentioning the place and date so maybe they can pass it on to him. It's important to encourage good driving.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 21 December, 2012, 12:01:48 pm
I have a flat on the fixed, it needs a new tube and I didn't have any, so I'm stuck with the ice bike.
Filthy.

I have just bought big fat guards. Mud in my hair, in the gap between hat & buff. Nasty. There's so many pigs round here, I'm not convinced of its 'muddyness'.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 December, 2012, 12:03:34 pm
I forgot to mention that I saw some excellent driving from a skip lorry at Tooting Broadway the other morning.  Good use of mirrors, safe positioning, clear indicating, avoidance of a hazardous situation, and a wave to the cyclist (me).

The driver was, unusually, a woman.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 21 December, 2012, 12:11:36 pm
Also unusual to see good behaviour from a skip lorry so that's good...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 December, 2012, 12:16:33 pm
Yes, very unusual.  Sadly, I couldn't see company info, so I couldn't do what you have, which is a very good idea.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 21 December, 2012, 12:30:47 pm
Passed the 10,000 mile mark on this mornings commute  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 21 December, 2012, 02:08:58 pm
Quote from: fungus on 21 December, 2012, 12:30:47 pm
Passed the 10,000 mile mark on this mornings commute  :)

Congrats Fungus.  Will be just shy of 8000 this year.  However, after today need just 45 miles to complete 500 in December which would be at least 500 miles each month of the year.  Plan is to do that on an Eddington boosting ride between Christmas and New Year.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 December, 2012, 02:13:36 pm
Well done.  I'm not sure if I'll ever get to 10,000 miles in a year.  That's over 16000km! :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonyh on 21 December, 2012, 04:37:51 pm
Quote from: fungus on 21 December, 2012, 12:30:47 pm
Passed the 10,000 mile mark on this mornings commute  :)

 :) indeed!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 21 December, 2012, 04:45:33 pm
Congratulations indeed.  An impressive tally.   :thumbsup:

On the way to work last night I wore my new Airhole neck gaiter.  A present from a Very Naughty Boy OTP.  The one that makes me look like I have a monkey's head.

It scared the shit out of a small boy.

I enjoyed this.

Ho, ho, ho.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 21 December, 2012, 04:58:47 pm
*googles*

Bwahaha!

Mind you, I already do my fair share of scaring small kids. The amount who cry 'Look mummy, a wolf!' when they see me out walking the dog is quite something. I can only conclude she looks more wolf-like when you're only small.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 21 December, 2012, 07:39:27 pm
the good news - today was my last commute this year! the bad news: king william street was cordoned off on my way home - incident involving a vehicle and a pedestrian, who, sadly did not survive... RIP :'(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nelson Longflap on 21 December, 2012, 07:53:09 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 21 December, 2012, 11:59:07 am
Despite my general avoidance of snail mail I’ve now sent them a Christmas card complimenting the driver’s behaviour and mentioning the place and date so maybe they can pass it on to him. It's important to encourage good driving.
You're a hero - and an example to us all.  I occasionally set out on a ride intending to be nice to motorists (friendly waves, thumbs up, indicating I'm ready to be passed, etc); it often wears off after the first cutting up incident but sometimes it pays off and niceness is reciprocated and I remember that many motorists also ride a bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 December, 2012, 09:16:02 pm
This evening's commute was over Westminster Bridge, along Embankment to Putney, blow a kiss to Marc, into a dark and quiet Richmond Park for a lap and a ride across the middle, then home through the back streets along the cycle route.

As I went through the gate into RP, I calculated that I might total 50km for the ride.  With no extra noodling, it came to 51.07  A good ride, and a fun one (especially on the sections where I switched off my front light in the park).

Total commute today = 76.52km.  Just shy of one mile for each year of my age.  If I'd done that sum, I'd have ridden round the block. ;D

I've ridden 286km this week on a commute of 190.  That'll do. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 21 December, 2012, 09:21:10 pm
Quote from: clarion on 21 December, 2012, 09:16:02 pm
I've ridden 286km this week on a commute of 190.  That'll do. :thumbsup:

Perhaps Father Christmas will bring you a GPS so you don't get lost going home anymore. :P ;)

Your commute today was more than I've done commuting and shopping all week. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 December, 2012, 09:41:51 pm
I don't mind getting lost if it means riding round RP with no traffic :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 21 December, 2012, 10:01:24 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 21 December, 2012, 10:04:05 am
Oh goody, loads of people seemed to have disappeared already. Lambeth bridge almost empty. Very nice!

(Jurek, it has not yet been cold enough again to properly test out your lobsters - it's at temps close to freezing that I start to suffer)

These's absolutely no rush - in your own (the weather's) time.

JB
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 24 December, 2012, 09:50:00 am
Last commute of the year.  And I got a p*nct*re! :o

Fortunately, I noticed it in my kitchen, so sat and swapped the tube (and dug out several flints & shards of glass) before setting out into the (relatively) cold.

Nice fast ride this morning with light motor traffic, but I only saw about a dozen cyclists in all :(

And my front brake finally objected to the abuse it's been getting without being cleaned.  One side started dragging.  I think there's some gunk in the spring.  Bit scary over the big junctions (of which, of course, I added Waterloo, Westminster & Lambeth Bridge roundabouts, as well as St George's Circus, just for the hell of it), but manageable.

25km again.  I'm hoping to get the same on the way home. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 24 December, 2012, 02:20:51 pm
Miserably wet ride home last night, enlivened by the very fast'n'close WVM pass.

He was followed by a BMW X5, in a particularly bright paint scheme. He had Christmas lights on his roof, which I saw light up the street a few hundred yards ahead of me as I turned off, in a pretty shade of blue.

Tee hee.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 24 December, 2012, 03:39:35 pm
Trundling through Richmond Park on the Brommie, I passed a lycra lad with a cheery 'Better weather than earlier today.' He felt the need to sprint past me on the hill without another word. Being in civvies and in plenty of time for the train, I left him to doing fast laps. ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 26 December, 2012, 08:26:55 am
Walking past the path. labs to my bike locker there was a stripe of light greenish sky behind the dark clouds.  By the time I hit my Nemesis roundabout, the sky was a gorgeous French navy.  And when I got home, it was light.  No cars, except for taxis, and one cyclist.  We bid each other "Mornin'".  The smell of baking as I rode past Asda - it smelled like hot cross buns.  Surely not?

Riding on a bank holiday morning is far preferable to school days, that's for sure.  And by 'eck it takes a while on them studded tyres.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Domestique on 26 December, 2012, 05:11:58 pm
Cycling home from work this afternoon it wet and horrible, but the traffic was far less than any day involving an open school  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Domestique on 27 December, 2012, 04:27:15 pm
Busier again this morning/afternoon, but again far less traffic on the road than I expected.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: handcyclist on 27 December, 2012, 04:36:13 pm
To the shops. A grand total of 2 miles. The hill on the way home re-ignited my cough.  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 27 December, 2012, 04:37:24 pm
Quote from: Domestique on 26 December, 2012, 05:11:58 pm
Cycling home from work this afternoon it wet and horrible, but the traffic was far less than any day involving an open school  :-\

Are you noticing any change with sunrise/sunset times yet Domestique?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Domestique on 27 December, 2012, 06:59:14 pm
Quote from: Lindagordinho on 27 December, 2012, 04:37:24 pm
Quote from: Domestique on 26 December, 2012, 05:11:58 pm
Cycling home from work this afternoon it wet and horrible, but the traffic was far less than any day involving an open school  :-\

Are you noticing any change with sunrise/sunset times yet Domestique?

Not yet, still dark in the morning, but light in the afternoon. Tbh I prefer the dark mornings, with a nice bright B&M headlamp, seems to stop most twattish motorists. Once it lightens up  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 27 December, 2012, 07:02:36 pm
Soon be spring though, and that's a good thing  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Domestique on 28 December, 2012, 03:34:33 pm
Loads of twats about this afternoon, it is so testing just riding a bike here nearly all the time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 28 December, 2012, 03:39:44 pm
Quote from: Domestique on 28 December, 2012, 03:34:33 pm
Loads of twats about this afternoon, it is so testing just riding a bike here nearly all the time.

It does get wearing doesn't it, especially when the weather's so grey.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Domestique on 28 December, 2012, 03:54:34 pm
Quote from: Lindagordinho on 28 December, 2012, 03:39:44 pm
Quote from: Domestique on 28 December, 2012, 03:34:33 pm
Loads of twats about this afternoon, it is so testing just riding a bike here nearly all the time.

It does get wearing doesn't it, especially when the weather's so grey.

I am not sure if its much better when the sun is out tbh Linda  :-\

On a positive, thats my last commute until next year. My five days from hell are over  8)  :thumbsup:  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 31 December, 2012, 04:37:22 pm
Some bloke was attacked by Oompa Loompas on my commute:

http://www.eveningnews24.co.uk/news/man_attacked_by_oompa_loompas_on_prince_of_wales_road_1_1756437
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 02 January, 2013, 09:13:53 am
Was a story of Bad News / Good News

BN: Missed train whilst renewing my season ticket.  :facepalm:
GN: had bike so could start riding towards work and divert to a station as the next train came through.  :thumbsup:

10km later into Bracknell station 5 minutes before next train and have a drink of rather cold water from the bidon. I had forgotten how hard work the Marathon Winters are.

BN: stomach decided the water was too cold and combined with the lack of breakfast and the unaccustomed morning excersise promptly decided that I should now BONK.  :facepalm:
GN: I managed to get off the train before my stomach expelled the water that was too cold.  :sick:
BN: This was the stop before my normal one.
GN: There is a pleasent back route to the office from this station via a nature area.  :thumbsup:
BN: The paths that were resurfaced last year have been compacted so much they don't drain so were 2" deep with water and mud. I am now sat in the office with mud splattered trousers.

I might complete the commute later by riding from the office to Bracknell Station.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 02 January, 2013, 09:38:51 am

First commute of the year and I suspect many people are yet to come back, because the roads were quieter than usual.

Managed to transport a small bathroom bin and a large ceramic pasta dish in the Brompton’s Carradice bag. Don’t ask why I need to bring such things to work...

I also acquired one of the very dinky Ortlieb Brompton bags as an Xmas present from Rob (I suspect it is very similar to the Ortlieb bar bags except with a Brompton fitting) so I can try that out as a much less bulky option tomorrow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 02 January, 2013, 10:12:57 am
First commute in nearly 3 weeks. Very very very very very slow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 January, 2013, 10:17:03 am
Still quieter than normal, but more than before Christmas, so it is building up.  Quite a fast ride this morning (wind assisted, mind).  I did a big loop to capture 25km, which was fun.

Plenty of cyclists on the road, and I enjoyed passing most of them. ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 02 January, 2013, 10:18:13 am
I had to drive :-[

In my defence, G G G Granville spent the festive break in a nice warm drying room at work so will be taking me home tonight.

The downside is that I haven't ridden at all over the holiday so the ride home will be slow and painful I suspect ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 02 January, 2013, 10:20:36 am
Legs were slow today.  Right knee is still sore from running training.  The road through Pingewood was 2' deep in water with an abandoned car so had to cut through Green Park.  V. hard getting back into work after a break.  But it was a quite morning with a glimpse of the sun as I was coming in.  Won't be too long before the days start stretching out  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 January, 2013, 10:23:11 am
I forgot to mention that it was my first significant fixed ride since the latter half of November, and I've had some niggling issues with the Solo since then.  You know - the sort that you aren't quite sure if you've solved the problem or not.  Well, it ran well this morning, which felt great, even if I needed to adjust back from freewheeling. :)

EDIT: Lucky enough not to have serious floods round here, unlike much of the rest of the country.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 02 January, 2013, 12:09:52 pm
My 1st commute of the new year was hard work after nearly 2 weeks of the bike & far too much alcohol consumption.  I was overtaken by someone from RM Cycling (the opposition)  I know what he was riding so his card has been marked!  :demon:   
Things were not helped by having to ride the mtb: 12.79miles 49.51minutes & 15.2mph avg.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 02 January, 2013, 12:24:46 pm
Slow, very slow, average 15.2mph, motivation level zero.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 02 January, 2013, 08:50:16 pm
Hmmm, if a <15mph headwind slowed me to an average 9.4mph for the 16 miles home how on earth do I think I'm going to manage LEL?  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 January, 2013, 08:51:37 pm
It was a tad windy on my way home, but I made up a new, if silly, route to do 25km :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lordy on 02 January, 2013, 09:08:43 pm
Bristol/bath cycle path is flooded again at bath end! At least it adds some spice to the commute watching the trainer clad commuters trying to get through it trying to keep their feet dry.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 03 January, 2013, 06:45:08 am
Quote from: Lordy on 02 January, 2013, 09:08:43 pm
Bristol/bath cycle path is flooded again at bath end! At least it adds some spice to the commute watching the trainer clad commuters trying to get through it trying to keep their feet dry.
Has someone left the plug in?
IGMC.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 03 January, 2013, 08:13:49 am
Normal service has been resumed and I am back on the bike.

It was uncomfortably warm for my level of dress both on the way home last night and in this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 January, 2013, 09:19:05 am
I'm sorry.

I'm very very very very very very very sorry for whatever it is I have done wrong.

Now, will you call off the motorised assassins?  I had several people have a serious go at me this morning, starting with a car (and bike!) pulling out onto a roundabout in front of me, and completely blocking my exit, and including a bus which set off as I was overtaking, and just continued to pull across, forcing me towards a central reservation (among many many others >:( )

I kept checking to see if my Cyo had gone out, but it was still shining brightly. ???

On the plus side, the roads were still reasonably clear of cars (though pleasingly busy with cyclists of various standards), so it was (by virtue of a tailwind until I went for the extended loop) a very fast ride.

Fun despite the lunatics.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 03 January, 2013, 09:30:33 am
Roads still quieter than usual which is nice. At the lights leading onto Lambeth bridge a chap pulled up alongside me on a lovely racing green Condor and said ‘Oh I do like your pink reflectors, they’re so zazzy!’ (I have one of the fluro pink two’n’fro magnetic reflectors clipped to the back of my boot, seeing as I commute in Normal Clothes).

This made me smile quite a lot because not only was it nice of him but it made me think of the episode of Big Bang Theory where Sheldon gets millions of cats and calls one of them Professor Zazzles because he’s ‘zazzy’.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 03 January, 2013, 10:00:51 am
Shorts!

I do miss proper winters, but there's something to be said about cycling in shorts at the start of January.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 03 January, 2013, 10:12:17 am
It did this mild thing last January. I remember us happily sitting outside a café after the LCC photoshoot in January.

There was then a relatively short-lived ‘Big Chill’ in February when in snowed in London (which is obviously the only kind of snow that matters). I remember that because we had the misfortune to go food shopping and people were behaving like it was the End Times…even in Waitrose!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 03 January, 2013, 10:19:18 am
Hhhmmm, yes, you had to go and mention 'shorts in January'. I think we'll know who to blame when the cold weather descends, which statistically, I believe is February.

Oh, and my pathetic 2-minute cycle to work had no incident (again). Just the usual run-of-the-mill. Noticeably less traffic mind than normal, so there's still a heap of folks not at work. Just wait for that school-run frenzy on Monday. We have 3 schools in our road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 03 January, 2013, 12:57:34 pm
A late start for me as I spent the first part of the morning on a site visit with contractors for the first part of the cyclepath project.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 03 January, 2013, 02:26:36 pm
I wore my new orange top I got for Christmas.

I cycled along the Strawberry Line path. There was a small flood in a place I've never seen one. And the path was blocked by a barrier and a road closed sign - I could hear chainsaws in the distance. So I was forced to divert into Winscombe for a while, but I was past the tunnel so it wasn't too hilly. I got to the station at 9:37 for my 9:40 train which was 5 minutes late. I spent most of the time on the train trying to sleep. Then I had an unusually quiet ride from Paddington to Kings Cross which was unusually fast as a result. Just avoided some massive potholes in Pancras Rd. I slept better on the train to Cambridge, then ended up carrying bike up stairs with sore back at the station due to the long queue for the under-sized lifts. Got tailgated by a van.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 03 January, 2013, 04:23:18 pm
Quote from: clarion on 03 January, 2013, 09:19:05 am
<...> and including a bus which set off as I was overtaking, and just continued to pull across, forcing me towards a central reservation (among many many others >:( )

from what i heard (it may not be true) that there was a change of rules, that all traffic should give priority to buses pulling out from stops. i've noticed lately that bus drivers just turn the front wheels to the right and go, without waiting for the traffic to let them through (nearly came a cropper on london bridge before christmas myself)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 January, 2013, 04:24:50 pm
I can't give way if I'm legally alongside in a different lane.  Especially if there's no escape! :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 03 January, 2013, 04:38:24 pm
Quote from: zigzag on 03 January, 2013, 04:23:18 pm
Quote from: clarion on 03 January, 2013, 09:19:05 am
<...> and including a bus which set off as I was overtaking, and just continued to pull across, forcing me towards a central reservation (among many many others >:( )

from what i heard (it may not be true) that there was a change of rules, that all traffic should give priority to buses pulling out from stops. i've noticed lately that bus drivers just turn the front wheels to the right and go, without waiting for the traffic to let them through (nearly came a cropper on london bridge before christmas myself)

Whereas my experience, especially in bus lanes, is the bus's right indicators come on, the driver counts to 10, s l o w l y, then drives straight ahead, moving no more than 20-30cm from the kerb.  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 January, 2013, 04:41:58 pm
Which reminds me of another one from this morning.  Bus indicating to pull out, so I ease off to let them emerge.  Signal cancelled.  I waited a moment to be sure that they weren't moving after all, and committed clearly (and in Primary) to overtake.  Bus pulls out and starts to signal again.  Emergency Stop for cyclist.  Rude words.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 03 January, 2013, 04:43:41 pm
I give way to buses as much as I can (and sometimes they even acknowledge this!) but it’s hard to once you’ve committed to overtaking them. I’m happiest overtaking when they’ve got passengers getting on or off so I know they won’t be going anywhere.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 03 January, 2013, 08:20:48 pm
Apparently I don't know the rules of the road.

Just so everyone else is aware, if the right turn only lane is coned off the mandatory cycle lane is automatically suspended. Cyclists must ride on the pavement and motorists may drive in the cycle lane regardless of the remaining generously proportioned lane. Cyclists that don't know the rules of the road deserve the wing mirror that gets shoved up their arse at thirty miles an hour.

My it stings.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 03 January, 2013, 08:53:45 pm
A collision causing injury needs to be reported.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 03 January, 2013, 08:53:54 pm
It's lighter already.   And the tourer is faster than a fixie MTB with M+ tyres, but doesn't inspire quite as much confidence when riding through broken glass or taking short cuts.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 04 January, 2013, 08:42:11 am
Where/when is it lighter?

I'm finding it is getting light later in the morning (was about 07:55, is now nearly 08:10).

It is pitch black before I leave anyway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 04 January, 2013, 09:05:42 am
I guarenteed that I am on the train home  :-[

Just as I got to the office from teh station this morning the left pedal felt odd and then the crank came off the bottom bracket. Somewhere on route I lost the bolt that holds the crank in place.  :facepalm:

Riding through the carpark with  my left foot held well clear (the crank and pedal still on the cleat) was a bit embarising.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 04 January, 2013, 09:10:52 am
At least you were close to your destination - the one time that it's happened to me I had to pedal one legged for about 5 miles
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 04 January, 2013, 09:13:27 am
It didn't rain.  Again!  That's all week with no rain.  (A two day week  :D )
Was passed by a silent road bike so quickly that I wondered if I was moving at all.  :(  So, all back to normal, then.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 04 January, 2013, 09:16:29 am
Quote from: PaulF on 04 January, 2013, 09:10:52 am
At least you were close to your destination - the one time that it's happened to me I had to pedal one legged for about 5 miles
True, Roll down the ramp to the basement carpark and then one legged cycle through to the bike cage. With the fixed wheel to lift the right foot over the top dead centre and allow for the next pedal stroke.

5 miles  :o It's 17 miles home or 10 minute walk to the station and less at the other end.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 04 January, 2013, 09:30:57 am
Quote from: Basil on 04 January, 2013, 09:13:27 am
It didn't rain.  Again!  That's all week with no rain.  (A two day week  :D )
Was passed by a silent road bike so quickly that I wondered if I was moving at all.  :(  So, all back to normal, then.

Nice, isn't it?  Won't last though, Accuweather is showing next (daytime) rain for London next Friday.  My boss is on vacation, so I might wangle a day working from home .......
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 04 January, 2013, 09:45:11 am
In spite of the headwind I made excellent time this morning.  Without the wind, I would probably have set a new PB (if I recorded individual legs of my commute).  Hope the wind remains for this evening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 04 January, 2013, 07:19:21 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 04 January, 2013, 09:45:11 am
In spite of the headwind I made excellent time this morning.  Without the wind, I would probably have set a new PB (if I recorded individual legs of my commute).  Hope the wind remains for this evening.

I like the idea of your left side getting there before the right ....... ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 04 January, 2013, 09:25:11 pm
 :P

As for this evening... BARSTEWARDS!  I had an overall average speed of just over 25kph - until I hit the High Street.  Blasted cars kept getting in my way and slowing me down.  I thought TfL was doing stuff to keep traffic moving, instead they continue to allow cars to slow us down!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 January, 2013, 09:28:51 am
They are an awful nuisance, aren't they?

Anyway, I got away from the motorists (briefly) by diverting to Richmond Park, where I refrained from a circuit in favour of a nip over Spankers Hill.

I am now in a very select band of people, as my arse has been recognised in a Royal Park after dark :-[

Anyway, with the twiddling through the back streets of South West London, I made it up to nearly 36km - over 60km for the day.

I do wish the wind would give over a bit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 05 January, 2013, 10:32:51 am
Quote from: matthew on 04 January, 2013, 09:05:42 am
Somewhere on route I lost the bolt that holds the crank in place.  :facepalm:


And then I found the bolt as I walked the bike back to the station  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 05 January, 2013, 11:00:41 am
Quote from: matthew on 05 January, 2013, 10:32:51 am
And then I found the bolt as I walked the bike back to the station  :thumbsup:

Impossible Bike Force: "Your task today, should you chose to accept it, is to build a bike from miscellaneous bits that have fallen from others onto the roadside" ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 05 January, 2013, 01:12:00 pm
Quote from: iddu on 05 January, 2013, 11:00:41 am
Quote from: matthew on 05 January, 2013, 10:32:51 am
And then I found the bolt as I walked the bike back to the station  :thumbsup:

Impossible Bike Force: "Your task today, should you chose to accept it, is to build a bike from miscellaneous bits that have fallen from others onto the roadside" ;)

But following cycleman is cheating...   ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cycleman on 05 January, 2013, 06:47:23 pm
 :o ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wobbly John on 05 January, 2013, 09:25:58 pm
On my way into Brandon (Suffolk), coming the opposite way was a cyclist who had very bright lights, who was wearing tacksuit bottoms that were shreded to the waistband, revealing colourful underpants.  :o :o :o

 :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 06 January, 2013, 01:16:00 pm
Quote from: SJSBrompton on 04 January, 2013, 08:42:11 am
Where/when is it lighter?

I'm finding it is getting light later in the morning (was about 07:55, is now nearly 08:10).

It is pitch black before I leave anyway.
Sunrise gets later until about 30 December every year so mornings will now get lighter.
Sunsets get later after 13 December.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 06 January, 2013, 04:12:57 pm
Two drivers flashed me out and both got a big wave of thanks which they both acknowledged.

The trouble with warmer January days is the mist rolls in like off a Hammer horror film.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 06 January, 2013, 07:38:04 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 06 January, 2013, 04:12:57 pm
The trouble with warmer January days is the mist rolls in like off a Hammer horror film.

No worries - Second half of January could well be cold. Get those studdied tyres ready.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 06 January, 2013, 08:15:13 pm
I know, the worst is to come, coldest day in Norwich 2012 was Feb 11, -15.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 07 January, 2013, 07:52:13 am
Just preparing for my first commute (and first ride of any sort) since November 9th!  :o
Wish me luck!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 07 January, 2013, 09:01:17 am
Quote from: hellymedic on 06 January, 2013, 01:16:00 pm
Quote from: SJSBrompton on 04 January, 2013, 08:42:11 am
Where/when is it lighter?

I'm finding it is getting light later in the morning (was about 07:55, is now nearly 08:10).

It is pitch black before I leave anyway.
Sunrise gets later until about 30 December every year so mornings will now get lighter.
Sunsets get later after 13 December.

I guess that's why I'm not noticing then - I get in the office around 08:00 - 08:15 depending on trains and queues for coffee.  I leave at 07:00 when it is pitch black, and sometimes it is still dark when I get to work.  Then I leave between 17:00 - 18:00 on a normal day, so it is dark again.

However, just found out my boss is disappearing off to India for a couple of days and with the 5.5 hours ahead thing, it usually means I can leave the office nice and early .......  ;D

Personally I'm craving the feeling of sunshine on bare arms and legs as I cycle down by St James Park. This misty rain stuff this morning was yuck on specs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 07 January, 2013, 09:40:18 am
Quote from: SteveC on 07 January, 2013, 07:52:13 am
Just preparing for my first commute (and first ride of any sort) since November 9th!  :o
Wish me luck!
I made it!
Didn't feel too bad at the time, although my legs are telling me they've done some unaccustomed exercise now. And it was quicker than driving would have been, due to the delays caused by everyone going back to school and by the burnt out pub.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 07 January, 2013, 12:48:31 pm
Quote from: SteveC on 07 January, 2013, 09:40:18 am
Quote from: SteveC on 07 January, 2013, 07:52:13 am
Just preparing for my first commute (and first ride of any sort) since November 9th!  :o
Wish me luck!
I made it!
Didn't feel too bad at the time, although my legs are telling me they've done some unaccustomed exercise now. And it was quicker than driving would have been, due to the delays caused by everyone going back to school and by the burnt out pub.

Good stuff SteveC  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 07 January, 2013, 03:30:18 pm
Quote from: hellymedic on 06 January, 2013, 01:16:00 pm
Quote from: SJSBrompton on 04 January, 2013, 08:42:11 am
Where/when is it lighter?

I'm finding it is getting light later in the morning (was about 07:55, is now nearly 08:10).

It is pitch black before I leave anyway.
Sunrise gets later until about 30 December every year so mornings will now get lighter.
Sunsets get later after 13 December.


Till about today actually - this is the latest sunrise. (it does depend somewhat on longitude/latitude)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 07 January, 2013, 07:12:42 pm
Hit rush hour so was filtering to the right along slow-moving traffic and two drivers pulled left and two remained way over, nearly on the central line, even though they must have seen me. Pure spite. ok on balance I suppose, the two nice drivers cancelled out the others.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 07 January, 2013, 08:29:43 pm
Today was remarkably run of the mill. Absolutely unremarkable (apart from blasting past the Dean on my way home...)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 07 January, 2013, 09:54:18 pm
Good commute, felt strongish on way home considering headwind but it may not have been as windy as I thought it was.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 07 January, 2013, 09:57:00 pm
Two notable events:
1) A BMW waited until I was past a bend and then went by being deliberately considerate.
2) I left at the early end of the usual range of times, but there was still some light in the sky.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 08 January, 2013, 12:51:40 am
Pissed away four hours of my life on public transport in order to get tools  to put me on the road tomorrow. Staff at Evans served me well by searching stock rather than relying on what computer said was in store. I'm in a foul mood though as nothing can compensate for how shit London transport is late at night , during rush hour or at any other time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 08 January, 2013, 08:44:59 am
The ride into work was fine.
My rear is, however, letting me know that I've not done enough cycling recently.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 January, 2013, 08:59:08 am
I was pleased with myself achieving 40kph on the flat along Embankment, steaming past rows of commuters.

Then a chap on a carbon Ribble passed me. :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 08 January, 2013, 11:37:05 am
Well last night:

Was passed in Wokingham by a rider who asked if I had a helmet.

Yes, but as I had forgotten my work ID card and handed back the visitors card before I realised it was under the desk and now behind a door I couldn't open, therefore I wasn't wearing it.

Once he had got 200+m up the road I suddenly realised he had no rear light. Cue winding up the fixie on marathon winters to pursuit pace in an attempt to catch him. Fortunately the lights at the 329M played ball, held him up and I caught the amber  :thumbsup: so I got in range to call out the warning. I even had spare AAA bateries in my pocket that I could offer but the light was a USB rechargable which he hadn't charged at work that day.  :facepalm:

As my brother in law put it, two cyclists trying to save each others lives.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 08 January, 2013, 11:49:12 am
Whereas my commute this morning was by car and I was trying not to kill the cyclist who appeared in front of me off the pavement on an unlit section of ruralish road, no lights, dark blue coat, dark jeans and hoodie. Real stealth mode.

Scared the shit out of me when I thought I was going to hit him.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: anotherdeadhero on 08 January, 2013, 11:55:11 am
3/4 lengths and a short sleeve jersey this morning. A v odd sensation in Jan!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 09 January, 2013, 08:35:03 am
Nearly came to grief within 250m of home.

Riding up dead end slip road to station, vehicle stopped in turning point at end at 90 deg to direction of road. Watch gent exit passenger seat and close door. Reverse light comes on, I come to an Emergency stop. Driver backs across my path so that she can complete her three point turn and drive out down slip road. When she comes to a halt she finally looks out her drivers door window and jumps when she sees my IQ Cyo pointing dirrectly at her from 1.5m!!

Gentle reminder to gent as we walk up the platform that she might want to look before moving from stationary, I had been about to go past the back of her car when the reverse light came on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 09 January, 2013, 09:24:17 am
After a truly shitty professional year last year which resulted in my desire to cycle (do anything in fact) cratering, I'm setting about this year with renewed determination to get on the bike for the commute.

Two so far this week and it's nice to be reassured that the legs still work, the route hasn't got any longer, and my bike hasn't seized up. Even drivers seem to be being a bit more considerate than I remember. I'm seeing handfuls of people pull right to the other side of the road when overtaking, and more not overtaking when something's coming the other way. Previously I would have considered this as truly exceptional behaviour, now it's happening more than once or twice per commute.

And as for the number of people on bikes - strewth.

Oh yes, there's more potholes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 09 January, 2013, 11:25:49 am
Quote from: hatler on 09 January, 2013, 09:24:17 am
After a truly shitty professional year last year which resulted in my desire to cycle (do anything in fact) cratered, I'm setting about this year with renewed determination to get on the bike for the commute.

Worse my job gets more important the cycling becomes.  Though it doesn't fully compensate for a lost sale / project / team / opportunity a burn up some orrible little country lane seems to put things into a better perspective. 

Unless you hit one of the potholes and find yourself fixing the bike in the dark and the wet....   >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 09 January, 2013, 11:59:12 am
Another early start this morning so I left the house at 04:45.

During the 7.75 mile journey I was passed by 7 vehicles. 5 of them were during the 300 meters of A4 that I travel. 3 of those were going in the opposite direction.

There is a lot to be said for the advantages of dragging ones arse out of bed at stupid o'clock.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 January, 2013, 12:04:02 pm
I left home before seven this morning.  I saw rather more vehicles, but it was a good opportunity to extend my ride again.  I've now ridden through Parliament Square five times this week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 09 January, 2013, 12:29:27 pm
Visibilty about 10 yards, the kinda fog you plait, most unpleasant especially since i was in 3/4's, decision based on yesterday's weather  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 09 January, 2013, 12:43:27 pm
As I came down Peckham Rye this morning, I came up behind another cyclist.  I held back as I could see the lights at the junction with Nunhead Lane were red, so didn't see any point in overtaking just before.  Pulled up behind him at the lights.  Then he hopped off his bike and wheeled it, running alongside, over the lights.  Then, once over the junction, hopped back on and rode down towards Rye Lane.
Pppppplllllease! If you are going to RLJ, at least do it properly.  Tee hee! You made me giggle, though, whoever you are.  I thought about thanking you for cheering me up on a damp, dark morning, as I passed you a minute or so later, on Rye Lane, but didn't.  So, on the slight off chance you are reading this, thankyou.  I need cheering up as the effects of not seeing daylight at all during the week are beginning to take effect already.
Same time, same place tomorrow?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 09 January, 2013, 01:09:29 pm
Arguably, though, that's the legal way to do it. The splendidly titled case of Crank v. Brooks is authority for one's being a pedestrian while crossing the road pushing a bicycle, providing that one starts and ends with one's feet on the pavement.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 January, 2013, 01:13:46 pm
Legally OK, but still inconsiderate of other road users in most cases, dangerous in some, and making the rider look like a pillock in 100%
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: anotherdeadhero on 09 January, 2013, 02:20:00 pm
Hatchback waiting to pull out of side road on my right.

Pulls out as I approach, so far so normal. A fag papers worth of clearance betwixt us both.

Hatchback then proceeds up (clear) road alongside me slightly slower than I had been travelling. Rap-a-tap-tap administered to B-pillar.

Hatchback pulls right half into opposite lane (which had been clear the entire time anyway), accelerates and stops on LHS. Inept operator glares at me as I pass to RHS.

I don't mind people cutting me up provided they GET THE F ON WITH IT!  :demon:

I was disappoint to note cycle carrier on roof. Prehaps the ineptitude had something to do with mirrors, side and rear windows being completely opaque with condensed water vapour.


In addition: if you're going to stand at a zebra crossing with a push-chair, and fail to twitch so much as an eyebrow as I take around 60 seconds to approach you, on a completely clear road, I'm going to assume you're not intending to cross. You have no right to verbally abuse me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 09 January, 2013, 04:47:10 pm
Quote from: HTFB on 09 January, 2013, 01:09:29 pm
Arguably, though, that's the legal way to do it. The splendidly titled case of Crank v. Brooks is authority for one's being a pedestrian while crossing the road pushing a bicycle, providing that one starts and ends with one's feet on the pavement.
I tend not to think first about whether a possible course of action is legal or illegal.  Is it sensible/safe/considerate/necessary tend to be the main criteria upon which I base my decisions.   Decisions made this way lead may towards actions which are within the law.  But not always.
Anyway, in this instance, the cyclist neither started nor finished with his feet on the pavement. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 09 January, 2013, 05:41:57 pm
Quote from: clarion on 09 January, 2013, 01:13:46 pm
Legally OK, but still inconsiderate of other road users in most cases, dangerous in some, and making the rider look like a pillock in 100%

100% the move of a pillock.

I see it quite a lot on a couple of junctions on my run into town. 

I just wish my employees were as keen to get to work as these people!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 10 January, 2013, 10:45:04 am
When I read jane's post I was just thinking that it has been ages since I saw anyone do that, and then lo and behold, this morning I witnessed it. It does make the rider look a bit silly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 January, 2013, 10:49:51 am
I see one every few commutes.  Perhaps two or three a week.  I almost invariably catch them up shortly after.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 10 January, 2013, 10:49:56 am
To be fair I used to do something similar on my commute from Heathrow to Uxbridge, but only because I knew that just around the corner from the lights was a row of parked cars that, if I didn't get to them first, I would be pushed into by the traffic turning the corner.  Self preservation trumped the rules of the road in that case.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 10 January, 2013, 10:56:20 am
Last night SWT schedule was all over the place, signal failure closed the up line at Barnes, so I was glad that I had grabbed a full change of cycling kit and the bike when I left home. I was therefore able to activate my back-up commuting option to the train and cycle home.

Crikey it was nippy, I should have had thicker longs with me. As I left work I realised it was a full finger glove, gaters and overshoes night. There were a few whisps of mist as I crossed the nature reserve and plenty of frost on the grass and car windows.

Some very considerate driving from a ford focus on the approach to the Met Office roundabout saw the driver hanging back to let me take lane 2 of 3 at the lights.

final result was 1 hour 1 minute for the 14 miles, not bad for not having riden the whole commute in a couple of months* and riding on marathon winters.

*my sister now lives bang on half way along the route, so calling in on her and the niece and nephew is too tempting. Of course once I visit then I need to use the train for the remainder of the journey to make up the time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 January, 2013, 11:09:02 am
Yesterday morning, at Tooting Bec, I saw a chap on a Pashley Clubman.  Very stylish bike, and fitted with an S3X, too.  You don't see many of those about ;)

As I came up behind a fixed rider this morning near Waterloo, I noticed that something weird was happening with his chain.  In the 'Definitely Shouldn't' category.  I rode up alongside, and told him his sprocket was loose, and he said he knew, but was nearly at work, so would sort it out in the warm.  I hope he got there OK.  I think the thread was stripped on the drive side, but I think he had another sprocket on the other side with a lockring, so he should be all right for later.

I rode in via Purley Way and the A23 this morning, as I'd had to go and pick up a package from the sorting office.  DecaLots of construction lorries clogging up the road all the way in, though.  It was going to be a bit short of target distance, which is why I'd gone up to Waterloo for a loop round the peninsula, where it was pleasing to see a few fixed coming out on the roads again.  Even then, I had to add a small loop (and another, smaller, one) to get the distance.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 January, 2013, 10:15:59 pm
I took delivery of my Friday Legs yesterday, and have been using them since.  But I still took them through Richmond Park this evening.  So much for the peace and quiet of the park after dark!  There were queues to go in, and queues to leave!  Going through, there was not a point when I couldn't see at least one (and normally four upwards) other cyclists :o

Almost all the way home, in fact.  The dull route home from RP occasionally has one other cyclist.  But tonight, there were loads!  Fab news.

A curiosity: This morning in Tooting, I saw a cyclist with a white light pointing to the rear.  As I passed, I noted that he had a red light on the front.  Idiot.

Then, this evening, I saw a woman with a red light on the front (I didn't see the rear of her bike).  Just insane.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 10 January, 2013, 10:21:30 pm
I rode a bike.  It was OK.  If there isn't ice everywhere tomorrow I may even repeat the experiment.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 10 January, 2013, 10:25:52 pm
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 10 January, 2013, 10:21:30 pm
I rode a bike.  It was OK.  If there isn't ice everywhere tomorrow I may even repeat the experiment.

 :thumbsup:

Can be quite fun, if you like that sort of thing.

Currently I seem to like sleeping more  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 10 January, 2013, 10:29:12 pm
Yeah, I'm a bit conflicted about that one.  On the one hand, bike=good.  We all know that, right?  On the other, duvets..... I think I want to hibernate. 

I may book my bike in for a service.  That generally tends to up my enthusiasm levels in odd headological ways.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 10 January, 2013, 10:34:14 pm
Quote from: clarion on 10 January, 2013, 10:15:59 pm
So much for the peace and quiet of the park after dark!  There were queues to go in, and queues to leave!  Going through, there was not a point when I couldn't see at least one (and normally four upwards) other cyclists :o


No such problems on my commute.  Management meeting overran  :( :( :( badly and so did not set off back from Uxbridge to Basingstoke until just after 7pm.  Took a different route from Windsor, going west to Shurlock Row and Hurst and picking up my usual back road route from Marlow.  Home just after 9.30pm completing 78.5 mile round trip.  Cycling definitely going better than career at the moment.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 10 January, 2013, 10:46:32 pm
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 10 January, 2013, 10:29:12 pm
Yeah, I'm a bit conflicted about that one.  On the one hand, bike=good.  We all know that, right?  On the other, duvets..... I think I want to hibernate.

I'm working on the principle that I've got a cold and am recovering from surgery, so should be allowed a certain amount of unexplained apathy.  Will drag myself out for the North Brum ride on Saturday, unless I've managed to render the remaining bikes unroadworthy by then.


Quote
I may book my bike in for a service.  That generally tends to up my enthusiasm levels in odd headological ways.

For reasons outlined in the fettling thread, I highly recommend this approach.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 11 January, 2013, 12:31:32 am
I took the train.

Simply because I couldn't face the thumping I'd get from the poor roads. It seems my newly built commuter has a very solid front end.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 11 January, 2013, 06:20:05 am
Has Wilkos got a special offer on those green, yes green, front lights at the moment?  I keep (barely) seeing them on the way to work.  Can't be legal surely?

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 11 January, 2013, 07:22:56 am
Due to the earliness of my morning commute, I don't see much other cycle traffic.  Even in the summer, no more than two or three hardy souls.  This morning, waiting at the Peckham High St lights, poised to shoot across to the Surrey Canal path, six cyclists and two more following me.  Very unusual. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 11 January, 2013, 07:48:41 am
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 10 January, 2013, 10:21:30 pm
I rode a bike.  It was OK.  If there isn't ice everywhere tomorrow I may even repeat the experiment.

If it's any help it looks like the clouds kept up over night so no frost, at least not in NTR or LDS.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 11 January, 2013, 07:56:34 am
Well, I've got a pannier out.  Just need to shut down the laptop and put it in there....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 11 January, 2013, 08:05:43 am
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 11 January, 2013, 07:56:34 am
Well, I've got a pannier out.  Just need to shut down the laptop and put it in there....

\o/  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 January, 2013, 08:54:06 am
Yay Crinkles!

I got out early for a very pleasant commute.  Glad it was pleasant, as I'm supposed to be on leave today :(

Back on a freewheel feels very weird indeed.  I have to remind myself I don't have to keep pedalling.

On last night's commute, I saw a cyclist down.  On the second mini-roundabout upriver of the barrier at Chelsea Harbour.  He was moving, and there were plenty of (perhaps too many) people around sorting him out, so I moved on, trying not to get too annoyed by the people filming events on their mobiles. :(

I hope he's OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 11 January, 2013, 09:18:23 am
I worry for the knees I saw braving the elements today. The mild weather has disappeared for the moment, chaps!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 January, 2013, 09:23:09 am
Quote from: jane on 09 January, 2013, 12:43:27 pm
As I came down Peckham Rye this morning, I came up behind another cyclist.  I held back as I could see the lights at the junction with Nunhead Lane were red, so didn't see any point in overtaking just before.  Pulled up behind him at the lights.  Then he hopped off his bike and wheeled it, running alongside, over the lights.  Then, once over the junction, hopped back on and rode down towards Rye Lane.
Pppppplllllease! If you are going to RLJ, at least do it properly.  Tee hee! You made me giggle, though, whoever you are.  I thought about thanking you for cheering me up on a damp, dark morning, as I passed you a minute or so later, on Rye Lane, but didn't.  So, on the slight off chance you are reading this, thankyou.  I need cheering up as the effects of not seeing daylight at all during the week are beginning to take effect already.
Same time, same place tomorrow?

Despite being in early, I saw three of these today.  One was still in the way when the lights had changed :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 11 January, 2013, 09:29:14 am
Quote from: clarion on 11 January, 2013, 08:54:06 am


On last night's commute, I saw a cyclist down.  On the second mini-roundabout upriver of the barrier at Chelsea Harbour.  He was moving, and there were plenty of (perhaps too many) people around sorting him out, so I moved on, trying not to get too annoyed by the people filming events on their mobiles. :(


People love an accident, don’t they.

That reminds me of when I was hit by a car on a crossing (as a ped) as a teenager; the car drove off without stopping and I came to broken, bloodied and lying in the road surrounded by a sizeable crowd of people looking down at me, I begged repeatedly for someone to go and catch my dog (the chain on her lead had snapped with the impact and the poor old thing was wandering around in the road nearby, confused) and not one of them did. Eventually my mum arrived (it had happened close to my home) and I told her to go and grab the dog before she was in another accident. I still can’t believe none of the strangers would catch the damn dog when asked to, just wanted to stand there and gawp at me (to be fair, at least someone must have called an ambulance because one arrived).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RJ on 11 January, 2013, 09:33:47 am
Quote from: clarion on 11 January, 2013, 09:23:09 am
Quote from: jane on 09 January, 2013, 12:43:27 pm
As I came down Peckham Rye this morning, I came up behind another cyclist.  I held back as I could see the lights at the junction with Nunhead Lane were red, so didn't see any point in overtaking just before.  Pulled up behind him at the lights.  Then he hopped off his bike and wheeled it, running alongside, over the lights.  Then, once over the junction, hopped back on and rode down towards Rye Lane.
Pppppplllllease! If you are going to RLJ, at least do it properly.  Tee hee! You made me giggle, though, whoever you are.  I thought about thanking you for cheering me up on a damp, dark morning, as I passed you a minute or so later, on Rye Lane, but didn't.  So, on the slight off chance you are reading this, thankyou.  I need cheering up as the effects of not seeing daylight at all during the week are beginning to take effect already.
Same time, same place tomorrow?

Despite being in early, I saw three of these today.  One was still in the way when the lights had changed :facepalm:

Moral?  If you feel you have to switch to pedestrian mode*, observe the pedestrian signals.  Otherwise, yeah - stay vehicular.

* - there are junctions I use occasionally where this can be an advantage, if not downright sensible, for reasons given by others upthread
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 11 January, 2013, 09:35:33 am
Dreich. But the coffee was made when I got to the lab.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 11 January, 2013, 09:46:26 am
Some crappy little hatchback was bibbing and tooting as we approached a pinch point. I thought maybe it was someone who knew me. I overtook him twice when he was stuck in traffic and he was self-consciously tapping his door as I passed. A sort of studied indifference.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 11 January, 2013, 10:09:12 am
Quote from: jane on 11 January, 2013, 07:22:56 am
Due to the earliness of my morning commute, I don't see much other cycle traffic.  Even in the summer, no more than two or three hardy souls.  This morning, waiting at the Peckham High St lights, poised to shoot across to the Surrey Canal path, six cyclists and two more following me.  Very unusual.

Is it me, or do those lights take longer and longer to change? Later in the day, people just end up walking into traffic rather than accept the interminable wait. The Green Cross Code Man would be very, very angry.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 11 January, 2013, 10:32:51 am
Quote from: clarion on 10 January, 2013, 10:15:59 pm

A curiosity: This morning in Tooting, I saw a cyclist with a white light pointing to the rear.  As I passed, I noted that he had a red light on the front.  Idiot.

Then, this evening, I saw a woman with a red light on the front (I didn't see the rear of her bike).  Just insane.

This morning as I drove on the motorway spur approaching the M23 in Crawley I spied a flashing white light heading the same way as me. A cyclist, sans rear light, so headtorch was pointing backwards and flashing.  He had steady one in front.  Good thinking, I suppose, suggesting perhaps his rear light had failed/been nicked/fallen off. Personally I would have taken an alternative route that didn't involve a 70mph dual carriageway in the dark though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 11 January, 2013, 10:36:30 am
Broke out the winter gloves this morning and put 3/4 baggies on over the bib longs to keep my bum warm.  Getting nippy.

Also gave my new Contour Roam2 its first outing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 11 January, 2013, 12:41:56 pm
Quote from: ian on 11 January, 2013, 10:09:12 am
Quote from: jane on 11 January, 2013, 07:22:56 am
Due to the earliness of my morning commute, I don't see much other cycle traffic.  Even in the summer, no more than two or three hardy souls.  This morning, waiting at the Peckham High St lights, poised to shoot across to the Surrey Canal path, six cyclists and two more following me.  Very unusual.

Is it me, or do those lights take longer and longer to change? Later in the day, people just end up walking into traffic rather than accept the interminable wait. The Green Cross Code Man would be very, very angry.
Yes, you are right.  TfL have a policy of increasing waiting times for pedestrians at crossings of major routes into central London. I had this from them in writing a couple of years ago when I enquired why the waiting times on Old Kent Rd Crossings had doubled. I was concerned about this because, as a teacher at a school just off the OKR, I had witnessed quite a few local schoolchildren, obviously well bored of waiting, just running across when there was a gap in the traffic, a couple of times causing near misses. I have seen a couple of people clipped on Peckham High St (and one person's dog) due to people getting fed up with the long waiting time and taking a chance too.  But "improving traffic flow" is TfL's mantra, don't you know.
   Oh for the dim and distant days when you just pressed the button and the lights changed almost immediately, as if by magic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 11 January, 2013, 01:06:02 pm
I don't remember it ever being like that - but I wish it had and still was. Or that zebras were used instead of pelicans.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 11 January, 2013, 01:50:57 pm
Quote from: Gandalf on 11 January, 2013, 06:20:05 am
Has Wilkos got a special offer on those green, yes green, front lights at the moment?  I keep (barely) seeing them on the way to work.  Can't be legal surely?

No.

OTOH Tesco have a cheap set of lights with a green front and red rear.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CJBrewer on 11 January, 2013, 01:52:54 pm
Quote from: jane on 11 January, 2013, 12:41:56 pm


Yes, you are right.  TfL have a policy of increasing waiting times for pedestrians at crossings of major routes into central London.


http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1272598/Grandfathers-pedestrian-crossing-protest-halts-traffic-Dorset.html
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 11 January, 2013, 02:32:27 pm
Quote from: jane on 11 January, 2013, 12:41:56 pm
Quote from: ian on 11 January, 2013, 10:09:12 am
Quote from: jane on 11 January, 2013, 07:22:56 am
Due to the earliness of my morning commute, I don't see much other cycle traffic.  Even in the summer, no more than two or three hardy souls.  This morning, waiting at the Peckham High St lights, poised to shoot across to the Surrey Canal path, six cyclists and two more following me.  Very unusual.

Is it me, or do those lights take longer and longer to change? Later in the day, people just end up walking into traffic rather than accept the interminable wait. The Green Cross Code Man would be very, very angry.
Yes, you are right.  TfL have a policy of increasing waiting times for pedestrians at crossings of major routes into central London. I had this from them in writing a couple of years ago when I enquired why the waiting times on Old Kent Rd Crossings had doubled. I was concerned about this because, as a teacher at a school just off the OKR, I had witnessed quite a few local schoolchildren, obviously well bored of waiting, just running across when there was a gap in the traffic, a couple of times causing near misses. I have seen a couple of people clipped on Peckham High St (and one person's dog) due to people getting fed up with the long waiting time and taking a chance too.  But "improving traffic flow" is TfL's mantra, don't you know.
   Oh for the dim and distant days when you just pressed the button and the lights changed almost immediately, as if by magic.

Figures, I've seen a lot of slow speed bumps and near misses as people attempt to squeeze through traffic there. The average Peckhamite doesn't have a lot respect for traffic at the best of times, as anyone who slaloms down Peckham Rye knows. Possibly someone from TfL would like to spend an hour at about 10-11am and see the results of this policy in action.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 11 January, 2013, 02:35:40 pm
Quote from: ian on 11 January, 2013, 02:32:27 pm

Figures, I've seen a lot of slow speed bumps and near misses as people attempt to squeeze through traffic there. The average Peckhamite doesn't have a lot respect for traffic at the best of times, as anyone who slaloms down Peckham Rye knows. Possibly someone from TfL would like to spend an hour at about 10-11am and see the results of this policy in action.

The ballet of Peckham Rye?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 11 January, 2013, 02:53:06 pm
Quote from: Ham on 11 January, 2013, 02:35:40 pm
Quote from: ian on 11 January, 2013, 02:32:27 pm

Figures, I've seen a lot of slow speed bumps and near misses as people attempt to squeeze through traffic there. The average Peckhamite doesn't have a lot respect for traffic at the best of times, as anyone who slaloms down Peckham Rye knows. Possibly someone from TfL would like to spend an hour at about 10-11am and see the results of this policy in action.

The ballet of Peckham Rye?
;D
On my way home, I don't even bother going up Rye Lane- I take the long way round.  It's worth it to avoid the stress of mixing it with pedestrians who don't realise there is actually a cyclepath component to the pavement there.  You can't really blame them either.  It's not obvious.  Although, I quite like the way Rye lane works as a High St, anarchic, diverse, rough edged (similar to Deptford High St) and when I am not in a hurry to get to home or work, will happily pootle down there, ready to apply brakes, swerve or stop at a second's notice.  It's good, I think, that there are still one or two High streets here and there where cars don't dominate.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 11 January, 2013, 03:05:35 pm
Yes, that pavement cycle path south down Rye Lane is probably the least respected cycle path in London (I don't think it would make much difference if you could tell it was a cycle path, which – as you say – is far from obvious). It's a lot easier to go around the back by the school. A Peckham safari is always interesting, though I've not seen the half-naked Rasta bagpiper for a while. I also once saw two people fighting with meat. Really, they were battering away at each other with the flayed legs of some animal. It was like Highlander gone really, really wrong, like it had been remade by Koreans.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 11 January, 2013, 07:38:37 pm
Made it there.  Made it back.  Didn't hate it.  Is it nearly Spring?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RJ on 11 January, 2013, 09:03:12 pm
A full week's commuting after something like a six-week break (sequential excuses).  Legs still attached.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: madcow on 11 January, 2013, 11:11:34 pm
Well done ,CL.  Keep it up and stay safe.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 11 January, 2013, 11:40:32 pm
Quote from: ian on 11 January, 2013, 03:05:35 pm
Yes, that pavement cycle path south down Rye Lane is probably the least respected cycle path in London (I don't think it would make much difference if you could tell it was a cycle path, which – as you say – is far from obvious). It's a lot easier to go around the back by the school. A Peckham safari is always interesting, though I've not seen the half-naked Rasta bagpiper for a while. I also once saw two people fighting with meat. Really, they were battering away at each other with the flayed legs of some animal. It was like Highlander gone really, really wrong, like it had been remade by Koreans.
Jamón Jamón, surely?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jam%C3%B3n_Jam%C3%B3n
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 11 January, 2013, 11:44:43 pm
Quote from: madcow on 11 January, 2013, 11:11:34 pm
Well done ,CL.  Keep it up and stay safe.

Well, since I seem to have just renewed my auk membership (and the EldestCub's while I was about it) and appear to be plotting a 100 in a few months, I guess I'd better ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 11 January, 2013, 11:50:33 pm
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 11 January, 2013, 11:40:32 pm
Jamón Jamón, surely?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jam%C3%B3n_Jam%C3%B3n

Oy. Nuffink wrong with that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 12 January, 2013, 09:35:20 am
(Actually yesterday, but I didn't get round to checking the history until this morning)

A 'full house'!  :thumbsup: Five days of commuting.  Not managed that since the week ending 9th March 2012.  Not managed a four day commuting week (which is my 'usual') since 28th August.  This could explain why I was feeling tired last night.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 13 January, 2013, 10:27:04 am
I've had a gutfull of numpties on a small roundabout on my ride, two lanes approaching, left lane for straight on, right for right, time and time again I can hear a car approach from behind, it's in the right hand lane and goes straight on so effectively tries to overtake on the roundabout. MPV today with kids in the back.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 13 January, 2013, 11:26:43 am
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 11 January, 2013, 07:38:37 pm
Made it there.  Made it back.  Didn't hate it.  Is it nearly Spring?

Pretty much, it's not as though we've had a proper cold winter this year anyway.

Keep it up. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 13 January, 2013, 11:28:45 am
Quote from: TimO on 13 January, 2013, 11:26:43 am
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 11 January, 2013, 07:38:37 pm
Made it there.  Made it back.  Didn't hate it.  Is it nearly Spring?

Pretty much, it's not as though we've had a proper cold winter this year anyway.Keep it up. :thumbsup:

There's plenty of time for that to yet occur.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 13 January, 2013, 11:30:43 am
Quote from: jogler on 13 January, 2013, 11:28:45 am
Quote from: TimO on 13 January, 2013, 11:26:43 am
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 11 January, 2013, 07:38:37 pm
Made it there.  Made it back.  Didn't hate it.  Is it nearly Spring?
Pretty much, it's not as though we've had a proper cold winter this year anyway.Keep it up. :thumbsup:
There's plenty of time for that to yet occur.

I've had sub-zero rides (in the UK) in the middle of Summer, so yes, still the rest of the year for that to occur in. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 14 January, 2013, 09:21:15 am
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8228/8379031203_16742969fe_z.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/paul_fulford/8379031203/)
First Tracks (http://www.flickr.com/photos/paul_fulford/8379031203/) by paulfulford (http://www.flickr.com/people/paul_fulford/), on Flickr

:D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 14 January, 2013, 09:24:11 am
^^^ That's this evening sorted  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 14 January, 2013, 09:26:08 am
Quote from: iddu on 14 January, 2013, 09:24:11 am
^^^ That's this evening sorted  ;)

Where you thinking of going? IIRC you're not far away
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 14 January, 2013, 12:35:15 pm
Quote from: marcusjb on 09 January, 2013, 05:41:57 pm
Quote from: clarion on 09 January, 2013, 01:13:46 pm
Legally OK, but still inconsiderate of other road users in most cases, dangerous in some, and making the rider look like a pillock in 100%

100% the move of a pillock.

I see it quite a lot on a couple of junctions on my run into town. 

I just wish my employees were as keen to get to work as these people!

I'm missing something here. What makes it 100% the move of a pillock?

To quote(-ish) Alternative London c. 1975: "One of the best things about using a bike to get around London, is you can instantly turn yourself into a pedestrian. One way streets, red lights, pedestrian areas are no problem, then once you're past you can hop back on... "
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 14 January, 2013, 08:29:27 pm
Was snowing a smidge on the way in. Plus what looked like frost on the cars turned out to be snow. Not very heavy though, Only a light dusting on my arms and head.

Turning to rain during the day which kept up till home time but luckily stopped about five minutes into the commute. Thankfully not too windy either or it would have been (even more) hard work. My ice bike does not do comfort or speed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 15 January, 2013, 06:14:07 am
Quote from: Pickled Onion on 14 January, 2013, 12:35:15 pm
Quote from: marcusjb on 09 January, 2013, 05:41:57 pm
Quote from: clarion on 09 January, 2013, 01:13:46 pm
Legally OK, but still inconsiderate of other road users in most cases, dangerous in some, and making the rider look like a pillock in 100%

100% the move of a pillock.

I see it quite a lot on a couple of junctions on my run into town. 

I just wish my employees were as keen to get to work as these people!

I'm missing something here. What makes it 100% the move of a pillock?

To quote(-ish) Alternative London c. 1975: "One of the best things about using a bike to get around London, is you can instantly turn yourself into a pedestrian. One way streets, red lights, pedestrian areas are no problem, then once you're past you can hop back on... "
My original post was about a guy who, at 6am, no traffic in sight, jumped off his bike at the red, ran across, then jumped back on it.  I had no real objection, I am not a member of the RLJ police.  I no longer do it, being old and responsible now, but I don't get that bothered by those who do it, unless they actively endanger others. I just made the comment that if he wanted to RLJ, why didn't he just ride over?  That time in the morning, there was no other traffic in sight. No danger whatsoever to himself or anyone else.  (I have to admit, I have done it myself, in the wee small hours.). And I was also quite amused, as he was in full Lycra and just looked a bit daft, clattering about on the tarmac on his massive cleats. (Probably more dangerous, trying to run about on those, than jumping the red light).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 15 January, 2013, 09:00:50 am
Quote from: PaulF on 14 January, 2013, 09:21:15 am
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8228/8379031203_16742969fe_z.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/paul_fulford/8379031203/)
First Tracks (http://www.flickr.com/photos/paul_fulford/8379031203/) by paulfulford (http://www.flickr.com/people/paul_fulford/), on Flickr

:D


That looks wonderful :)

Overdid the layers this morning, currently trying to restore normal body temp. Tomorrow will be more interesting: -7 even in That London. Impressive numbers of cyclists out this morning, including lots of Chiswick's Triumph 20s+baskets and Pashleys. Cold is more tolerable than rain, judging by the numbers on the roads.

Numpty quotient about average, slightly boosted by above-average football shorts+minging vest "I'm hard so I can RLJ" brigade.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 January, 2013, 09:03:58 am
Well, it seems that fitting studded tyres has staved off the big freeze for the moment at least.  There was a bit of ice around, especially on Mitcham Common, but nothing at all that I noticed after Figges Marsh.  I felt very self-conscious, with my tyres doing their best impression of riding up a gravelled drive sweep, but, despite feeling very weary at first, I made good time.  I even checked that the distance I'd clocked matched what I'd done previously on the same loop, to check that I had the computer set correctly.  Passing RLJers on Borough High Street was a joy.

The Met Office are sticking by their predictions of sub-zero temperatures for the next couple of nights, so, unless it stays very dry, I'm expecting ice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 15 January, 2013, 09:30:41 am
Thanks to those of you who put on your ice tyres, thereby staving off ice for the moment, at least!

I’ll be on the bus if the proposed freeze happens. Supposed to thaw by the weekend if it does.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 15 January, 2013, 11:09:42 am
Stay away from Norfolk. 42 schools closed. Car crashes, overturned gritters (OK, that was Suffolk) and general mayhem. It's really quite incredible what 5cm of snow can achieve.

I'll be taking the sno tyres out for a spin [sic] at lunchtime. It's sunny, frosty (-2c) and crisp.

My commute across the landing to the office was ice-free.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 15 January, 2013, 11:15:38 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 15 January, 2013, 09:30:41 am
Thanks to those of you who put on your ice tyres, thereby staving off ice for the moment, at least!
Didn't bloody well work up here.
Came off twice on black ice before deciding to call it quits (admittedly, landing on sharp stuff after the second dismount made a right mess of my shorts, and riding semi-nekkid in sub-zero temperatures isn't my idea of a good time) - some things are beyond even Pugsley, i seems.

Much as I'd like fat-compatible ice tyres, at £200+ a pop it ain't gonna happen.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 15 January, 2013, 11:50:49 am
Sorry to hear that, Interzen. I rode the long way into work so I could avoid ungritted sodding cycle paths.


The fields were pretty but I was still slow. How slow?  About 8kph slower than normal. A huge amount.

Keep thinking there must be something wrong with the bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 15 January, 2013, 11:59:28 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 15 January, 2013, 11:50:49 am
Sorry to hear that, Interzen. I rode the long way into work so I could avoid ungritted sodding cycle paths.
A sound move.

I discovered that the downside of losing so much weight is that I don't have as much 'natural' padding any more. One thing's for certain, I sure as hell didn't bounce this time round  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: phantasmagoriana on 15 January, 2013, 12:23:26 pm
Quote from: interzen on 15 January, 2013, 11:15:38 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 15 January, 2013, 09:30:41 am
Thanks to those of you who put on your ice tyres, thereby staving off ice for the moment, at least!
Didn't bloody well work up here.

I tried doing my bit to stave off the York ice by fitting mine - sorry it didn't work. :( On balance, they probably were overkill and it was slow going with the comedy low pressure (might put some more air in the rear one before the ride home), but I felt the extra grip on some of the icier bits. Will probably leave them on for the rest of the week, at least. Having come off on ice in the previous two winters I'm a bit over-cautious, I think.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Karla on 15 January, 2013, 12:43:41 pm
If you think it's bad in the daytime, you should have tried the stray at 2am this morning. Fortunately I hadn't quite got round to removing the front ice tyre from last time!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 15 January, 2013, 12:49:38 pm
Miles of sheet ice this morning - loved it- makes running studs worth it.

Stopped on Warby bridge to put the temporary lights back the right way round thus preventing carnage at rush hour  O:-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: nikki on 15 January, 2013, 01:34:40 pm
A tumble on the ice and a short detour to the fracture department of the local hospital. ...Fortunately unrelated.

The Ladypool Ditch is a nasty bit of cycle path. Not a huge fan of of the Orthotics Department's bureaucracy, either.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 15 January, 2013, 06:10:41 pm
Set off at 8.55am (5 mins later than intended) from Chez Feline; start by walking down the hill to the high street. Which was also black ice, but didn't have time to walk that too. On the bypass, discovered the road closure warned about last night was still in force, and in my way. So detour downhill, decide to avoid the steep climb back up to the Strawberry Line path as it would probably not have been gritted, so continued towards Cross. And found a long queue of traffic which I had to work my way past if I wasn't to miss my train, the traffic coming the other way meaning I had to keep pulling in. Got to the A38 and got out fairly easily, and climbed up to the Strawberry Line. I was in two minds since I knew that at I'd be back on road at Sandford and was unsure if the road I'd be using would have been gritted. The Strawberry Line path itself is not a tarmac surface, and wasn't frozen solid, so I was ok. I got to Nye Road in Sandford and that was ice free. Finally on the last stretch at Congesbury to Yatton I had to push it. Crested the hill into Yatton at 28kph (75" gear on Pompino) and 35kph through Yatton itself meant the train was just pulling in, rather than just pulling out, when I got off my bike to walk onto the platform...

Bad news is I seem to have dropped my winter hat in the rush to get my bike on the train? :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 15 January, 2013, 08:27:27 pm
Puddles were still squishy here, but the gritter passed me this evening. Tomorrow is a day in that London without the bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 15 January, 2013, 10:07:19 pm
Very glad I fettled the trike back onto the road on Sunday. Ice all over the place this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 15 January, 2013, 10:13:18 pm
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 15 January, 2013, 09:00:50 am
Quote from: PaulF on 14 January, 2013, 09:21:15 am
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8228/8379031203_16742969fe_z.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/paul_fulford/8379031203/)
First Tracks (http://www.flickr.com/photos/paul_fulford/8379031203/) by paulfulford (http://www.flickr.com/people/paul_fulford/), on Flickr

:D


That looks wonderful :)

Overdid the layers this morning, currently trying to restore normal body temp. Tomorrow will be more interesting: -7 even in That London. Impressive numbers of cyclists out this morning, including lots of Chiswick's Triumph 20s+baskets and Pashleys. Cold is more tolerable than rain, judging by the numbers on the roads.

Numpty quotient about average, slightly boosted by above-average football shorts+minging vest "I'm hard so I can RLJ" brigade.

Choice.
Given the forecast, when I looked through the blinds at 06:20 this morning, I was fully expecting to see the cars iced up.
As there was no evidence of this, my neighbours may've heard me exclaim "Bike!"  :thumbsup:

Lordy knows what it'll be like tmrw, given the forecast overnight low of -5°C  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 16 January, 2013, 06:17:09 am
Just on my way out.  Below freezing and frosty in SE London, but the roads seem dry, so I think ice will not be a significant problem. Wearing new winter socks.  Very soft furry insides.  Lovely. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 16 January, 2013, 06:22:18 am
-5°C?
Myth.
Bike! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 16 January, 2013, 08:47:09 am
It was below freezing at 6.30 am - just, as I discovered riding over the railway bridge to Nunhead from Crofton Park.  The road past the cemetery is often wet, for some reason.  Maybe because some of London's underground rivers run around here and it is also near a subterranean reservoir.  A thin film of black ice covered the road just here.  However, the road surface is so bad at this point (probably due to the seepage problem), it gave enough grip to make riding over it no problem.  Elsewhere, the roads are so dry, no problem.
The socks are amazing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 16 January, 2013, 08:53:53 am
Ouch!  The gloves didn't hack it this morning.  Ski mitts tomorrow, I think.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 16 January, 2013, 10:04:41 am
Cyclist directly in front of me was knocked off by a pedestrian this morning. She was doing a fair lick approaching a pedestrian crossong - Farringdon Rd/Cowcross St junction for anyone who knows it - and it was clear that the bunch of ovine pedstrians were collectively not looking the right way. She saw that and started pinging her bell, but hit one and went straight down. Thankfully, she and the bike were mostly OK.

I administered a few strong words to the bloke, who was apologetic, but I didn't press the matter because really it was her own fault. You can't simply ride full pelt at a bunch of pedestrians and expect them to magically part, even if you are going ting ting ting (her comment was "didn't you hear my bell?"). They have every right to be on the road, even if the traffic lights are against them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 16 January, 2013, 10:15:41 am
Today I used a combination of:

Silk glove liners
Thermal fleecy woolly gloves (the cheap ones you get at markets)
Jurek’s Lobster overmitt things (Jurek, PM me what you’d like for these, please as they seem to be working for me)

It worked well. Just don’t expect me to answer my phone if you ring me while I’m wearing these...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 16 January, 2013, 10:20:36 am
Is today National Lemming Day, or is it just a London phenomenon?  I expect such behaviour in the City and West End, but I saw it in the outer reaches of Tower Hamlets.  Didn't come close to hitting anyone, but I was glad of F/R discs on the bicycle.  Some people must honestly think "there are no cars moving in front of me, I can't hear a car, so I'll cross the road without bothering to look".  ::-)

Other than that, a rather pleasant, if bracing, commute.  As for the two blokes I saw with bare knees...  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 January, 2013, 10:24:05 am
Just freezing as I set off today.  A pleasant ride of 22km, so a bit short of what I've been doing on the fixed, but I can still extend it with the studded tyres, I found.  Talking of which, the roads seemed pretty much bone dry, so there were very few patches of ice anywhere.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 16 January, 2013, 10:40:20 am

Cold and snowy, a day for Doc Martins boots, over trousers and big coats.

Rode faster than I expected, couldn't tell during the ride as I'd left my cycle computer on my desk at work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 16 January, 2013, 12:27:21 pm
-3 this morning so not too bad, stuck to the main roads which my commute in pretty much is anyways & was fine  :)

Just need to decide which way to go back tonight, fortunately my shorter route still takes me over my minimum daily mileage of 27.3miles.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 16 January, 2013, 01:12:05 pm
Seemed to get a lot of green lights today :-)  Was back on fixed after a few days using my (geared) Roberts. Switching between the two usually results at some point in my attempting to slow down without pulling the brake levers on one or attempting to freewheel around a corner on the other.  Today was no exception  :-[   

Still can't get the gloves right though - silk glove liners and Sealskinz today and my fingers were still numb by the time I got to work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 January, 2013, 01:22:39 pm
Oh, so that was where all the green lights have gone!  At least, the few I usually get ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 16 January, 2013, 01:35:00 pm
Lights? Don't have any of those (green or red) on my commute :smug:

It was probably just above freezing this morning on the way in, which was surprising. Still a few completely frozen over sections on the back roads round Beckermet though and the wind was very cold.

We also had a very red sky at dawn, turning to mainly blue with sunshine, and there's snow on the fells but probably no lower than about 400m
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 16 January, 2013, 01:36:20 pm
Quote from: jane on 16 January, 2013, 06:17:09 am
Wearing new winter socks.  Very soft furry insides.  Lovely.
Quote from: jane on 16 January, 2013, 08:47:09 am
The socks are amazing.
We need to know about these socks, Jane. Names, prices, retailer, sizes, colours and tog ratings!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 16 January, 2013, 01:57:20 pm
Beautiful day - different route as I was dropping off some emergency chicken feed at my boss. Fantastic cloud inversion on the Tay with snow capped peaks. Took the off road bits gently as I was still on slicks. Nice day to be out on a bike even though my legs were giving me grieff from the club run the night before.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 16 January, 2013, 04:22:13 pm
Quote from: clarion on 16 January, 2013, 01:22:39 pm
Oh, so that was where all the green lights have gone!  At least, the few I usually get ::-)

Yup.  I've called TfL and booked some for the ride home as well. Last bike commute of the week so I intend to enjoy it :-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 16 January, 2013, 04:47:48 pm
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 16 January, 2013, 01:36:20 pm
Quote from: jane on 16 January, 2013, 06:17:09 am
Wearing new winter socks.  Very soft furry insides.  Lovely.
Quote from: jane on 16 January, 2013, 08:47:09 am
The socks are amazing.
We need to know about these socks, Jane. Names, prices, retailer, sizes, colours and tog ratings!
They are called Heatholders.  They were a Christmas present, so price, I can't say.  But the wrapper says they have a tog rating of 2.34.  They have a website www.heatholders.com (http://www.heatholders.com)
I wore them with inner socks with my warm boots.  Not a hint of cold toe.  It wasn't as cold as it can be, but it was below freezing when I left not long after 6am.  They felt good to me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 16 January, 2013, 05:29:06 pm
Quote from: clarion on 15 January, 2013, 09:03:58 am
Well, it seems that fitting studded tyres has staved off the big freeze for the moment at least. ...

Even though it's been a bit brisk, probably below zero some of the time, it doesn't feel too bad.  I've not seen much ice either, a few bits in puddles, but since the roads have been quite dry, there haven't been many of those, and none which weren't easily avoidable.

It's supposed to be a bit colder tonight, but the effort of cycling on the studded tyres is enough exercise to keep me warm anyway. :)

Clearly a lot of people don't bother with any news before leaving to drive through London.  This morning there was almost stationary traffic from Clapham Common to the junctions which went eastward towards Vauxhall, and inevitably people were stopping to ask questions of the police who had blocked the roads.

It didn't slow me down much, it probably added two or three minutes onto my commute.  I suspect those on four motorised wheels were delayed somewhat longer. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 January, 2013, 07:16:10 pm
Coming home seemed a long way.  Possibly because I did extend the commute (slightly), but partly because I was taking the Avenues & Alleyways route home, avoiding the main arterials, which were, in the places I crossed them, jammed up because of diversions from Vauxhall.  The Police had even posted officers to prevent people from driving the wrong way over the railway bridge on Larkhall Rise.  I don't envy them that post, and nor do I envy any of the very many emergency staff who worked so efficiently at Vauxhall.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 16 January, 2013, 07:45:51 pm
Quote from: jane on 16 January, 2013, 04:47:48 pm
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 16 January, 2013, 01:36:20 pm
Quote from: jane on 16 January, 2013, 06:17:09 am
Wearing new winter socks.  Very soft furry insides.  Lovely.
Quote from: jane on 16 January, 2013, 08:47:09 am
The socks are amazing.
We need to know about these socks, Jane. Names, prices, retailer, sizes, colours and tog ratings!
They are called Heatholders.  They were a Christmas present, so price, I can't say.  But the wrapper says they have a tog rating of 2.34.  They have a website www.heatholders.com (http://www.heatholders.com)
I wore them with inner socks with my warm boots.  Not a hint of cold toe.  It wasn't as cold as it can be, but it was below freezing when I left not long after 6am.  They felt good to me.
Thanks! I was only joking about the tog rating, I didn't think they actually did them for socks - so I'm pleasantly surprised.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 16 January, 2013, 08:38:56 pm
Whilst most of the ride was on dry roads the few icy patches really made me glad of the studs, whole road width of sheet ice in places. Hard work seeing it on the way home too as the battery warning light came on just as I hit the unlit section so I dropped to only one light head rather than the pair, that reminds me, must put battery on charge.

Way home was hard work, was comfortable with just cold toes and fingers till I had to slow down for the ice, cooled off and didn't really warm up again till I got home.

Still I'm full of hot tea and dinner now. Not done any fettling though, just vegetated.

What is odd is that the way home felt slower and harder and was actually six minutes quicker  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 16 January, 2013, 08:40:05 pm
A more direct main road route for me again tonight.  Roads are not too bad though so I may give the usual route a bash tomorrow night forecast is for snow on Friday so I may be back on the mtb. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 16 January, 2013, 09:00:07 pm
Minus 4.8 freezing fog on the way home tonight. Main roads all the way.

Pompino has a slow puncture. Attempted to pump it up, valve unscrewed. Used a CO2 cartridge as I CBA.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 16 January, 2013, 09:50:28 pm
I want the git who nicked my legs, and replaced them with two bags of blancmange, to own up and give them back  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 16 January, 2013, 10:29:12 pm
I struggled to release my bike from my Kryptonite Fagheddaboutit lock at work at 18:00 this evening.
Water has ingressed into the lock, and frozen.
With an ovenight low forecast of -8°C I can't imagine it is going to be any easier tomorrow morning to open the lock.
I need to get some WD40 in there.....

Luckily, the site where I work is such that I could (almost) comfortably leave the bike unlocked - and be confident that it'll still be there at the end of the day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 16 January, 2013, 10:34:57 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 16 January, 2013, 10:29:12 pm

Luckily, the site where I work is such that I could (almost) comfortably leave the bike unlocked - and be confident that it's still be there at the end of the day.

<shortens possible list of places where Jurek works>
1. Buckingham Palace
2. Tower of London
3. Whatever nick Titus works out of.
4. London Zoo Big Cat enclosure
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 16 January, 2013, 10:57:01 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 16 January, 2013, 10:34:57 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 16 January, 2013, 10:29:12 pm

Luckily, the site where I work is such that I could (almost) comfortably leave the bike unlocked - and be confident that it's still be there at the end of the day.

<shortens possible list of places where Jurek works>
1. Buckingham Palace
2. Tower of London
3. Whatever nick Titus works out of.
4. London Zoo Big Cat enclosure

Akshully, when I worked for the Science Museum at their West London repository, it was the only place that I've ever worked that I felt comfortable with the notion that I could leave all the windows open when I went home on a Friday, and my tools would all still be there on Monday morning.
The (motor) bike, I could leave the key to the ignition in the slot without a worry.
Really. For days on end.
Nobody could enter or leave the site without going through a series of security 'airlocks'.
(It makes my experience of Olympic Security last year seem a little.... well .... Asda)
Given that we were storing (amongst a shed-load of other weird things) a whole lot of radioactive stuff, it was (and probably still is) one of the most secure sites in West London.
Where I'm working at the mo is good - but not quite as good as the SM.

Buck House I've worked in.
The security there was this: hahahahahahahahahaha!
I did get to do a No.2 in the Ladies in there though.

I know.
I've overdone it.
TMI  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 16 January, 2013, 11:13:02 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 16 January, 2013, 10:57:01 pm

Buck House I've worked in.
The security there was this: hahahahahahahahahaha!
I did get to do a No.2 in the Ladies in there though.

I know.
I've overdone it.
TMI  ::-)

You'll be overjoyed to know that some of my anchors are installed at Buckingham Palace in the Royal Compost Heap Garden Waste Recycling Unit. I got to drive round the garden, but did not avail myself of the facilities.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 16 January, 2013, 11:17:10 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 16 January, 2013, 10:57:01 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 16 January, 2013, 10:34:57 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 16 January, 2013, 10:29:12 pm

Luckily, the site where I work is such that I could (almost) comfortably leave the bike unlocked - and be confident that it's still be there at the end of the day.

<shortens possible list of places where Jurek works>
1. Buckingham Palace
2. Tower of London
3. Whatever nick Titus works out of.
4. London Zoo Big Cat enclosure

Akshully, when I worked for the Science Museum at their West London repository, it was the only place that I've ever worked that I felt comfortable with the notion that I could leave all the windows open when I went home on a Friday, and my tools would all still be there on Monday morning.
The (motor) bike, I could leave the key to the ignition in the slot without a worry.
Really. For days on end.
Nobody could enter or leave the site without going through a series of security 'airlocks'.
(It makes my experience of Olympic Security last year seem a little.... well .... Asda)
Given that we were storing (amongst a shed-load of other weird things) a whole lot of radioactive stuff, it was (and probably still is) one of the most secure sites in West London.
Where I'm working at the mo is good - but not quite as good as the SM.

Buck House I've worked in.
The security there was this: hahahahahahahahahaha!
I did get to do a No.2 in the Ladies in there though.

I know.
I've overdone it.
TMI  ::-)

I did a number 2 in the secret loo by the Throne Room in Buck Palace that was supposed to be reserved for VVIPs as well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 17 January, 2013, 06:25:41 am
Quote from: alexb on 16 January, 2013, 11:17:10 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 16 January, 2013, 10:57:01 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 16 January, 2013, 10:34:57 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 16 January, 2013, 10:29:12 pm

Luckily, the site where I work is such that I could (almost) comfortably leave the bike unlocked - and be confident that it's still be there at the end of the day.

<shortens possible list of places where Jurek works>
1. Buckingham Palace
2. Tower of London
3. Whatever nick Titus works out of.
4. London Zoo Big Cat enclosure

Akshully, when I worked for the Science Museum at their West London repository, it was the only place that I've ever worked that I felt comfortable with the notion that I could leave all the windows open when I went home on a Friday, and my tools would all still be there on Monday morning.
The (motor) bike, I could leave the key to the ignition in the slot without a worry.
Really. For days on end.
Nobody could enter or leave the site without going through a series of security 'airlocks'.
(It makes my experience of Olympic Security last year seem a little.... well .... Asda)
Given that we were storing (amongst a shed-load of other weird things) a whole lot of radioactive stuff, it was (and probably still is) one of the most secure sites in West London.
Where I'm working at the mo is good - but not quite as good as the SM.

Buck House I've worked in.
The security there was this: hahahahahahahahahaha!
I did get to do a No.2 in the Ladies in there though.

I know.
I've overdone it.
TMI  ::-)

I did a number 2 in the secret loo by the Throne Room in Buck Palace that was supposed to be reserved for VVIPs as well.

The Ladies that I used was a 'secret' loo too - hidden behind a wall panel, rather than a door. This is starting to have the overtones of a thread of its own. Probably best placed in NSFW  :D.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonBuoy on 17 January, 2013, 06:37:57 am
Quote from: Jurek on 17 January, 2013, 06:25:41 am
Quote from: alexb on 16 January, 2013, 11:17:10 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 16 January, 2013, 10:57:01 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 16 January, 2013, 10:34:57 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 16 January, 2013, 10:29:12 pm

Luckily, the site where I work is such that I could (almost) comfortably leave the bike unlocked - and be confident that it's still be there at the end of the day.

<shortens possible list of places where Jurek works>
1. Buckingham Palace
2. Tower of London
3. Whatever nick Titus works out of.
4. London Zoo Big Cat enclosure

Akshully, when I worked for the Science Museum at their West London repository, it was the only place that I've ever worked that I felt comfortable with the notion that I could leave all the windows open when I went home on a Friday, and my tools would all still be there on Monday morning.
The (motor) bike, I could leave the key to the ignition in the slot without a worry.
Really. For days on end.
Nobody could enter or leave the site without going through a series of security 'airlocks'.
(It makes my experience of Olympic Security last year seem a little.... well .... Asda)
Given that we were storing (amongst a shed-load of other weird things) a whole lot of radioactive stuff, it was (and probably still is) one of the most secure sites in West London.
Where I'm working at the mo is good - but not quite as good as the SM.

Buck House I've worked in.
The security there was this: hahahahahahahahahaha!
I did get to do a No.2 in the Ladies in there though.

I know.
I've overdone it.
TMI  ::-)

I did a number 2 in the secret loo by the Throne Room in Buck Palace that was supposed to be reserved for VVIPs as well.

The Ladies that I used was a 'secret' loo too - hidden behind a wall panel, rather than a door. This is starting to have the undertones of a thread of its own. Probably best placed in NSFW  :D.


On the commode today ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 17 January, 2013, 06:52:01 am
Quote from: JonBuoy on 17 January, 2013, 06:37:57 am
On the commode today ?
Ver' ver' cold indeed.
Just been out to check the road for coefficient of friction.
There appears to be plenty.
So it'll be bike! :)
Is that alright?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonBuoy on 17 January, 2013, 07:09:57 am
Quote from: Jurek on 17 January, 2013, 06:52:01 am
Quote from: JonBuoy on 17 January, 2013, 06:37:57 am
On the commode today ?
Ver' ver' cold indeed.
Just been out to check the road for coefficient of friction.
There appears to be plenty.
So it'll be bike! :)
Is that alright?

That is fine by me but that wasn't really the question - it was my suggestion for the title of your new topic in NSFW.

..but yes - it is damn nippy and I too will be on the bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 17 January, 2013, 09:11:01 am
Slightly warmer than yesterday, as in -2 not -5.

Car tomorrow as lots of snow is forecast and the fixie is broken, so no bike with spiked tyres.  Car has snow tyres.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 January, 2013, 09:12:21 am
That was pretty cold.  But manageable.  And still fairly dry, so there wasn't much ice after I got onto the main roads.  Clapham Common had its moments, but my back route through Stockwell was OK.

Clapham Common was pretty much a car park by the time I got there at about 0745.  Nothing moving, and bikes filtering carefully past in the oncoming lane.  Vauxhall Bridge was closed, and traffic was advised to use Chelsea Bridge, so I decided not to go across the river.  I diverted onto a cycle route, which has at least three bikes only restrictions.  It was difficult to cross most of the radial routes, with the exception of the road past the Oval, which was deserted except for two buses.  I guess that was coned off at the A3.

At Larkhall Rise, where I commented there were Police Officers posted last night to divert traffic, there were no Officers this morning.  It was getting pretty chaotic, with a long line of cars and vans trying to get the wrong way across the single lane railway bridge.  There were plenty of cars coming the correct way, too.  I would be surprised if there hasn't been a collision there by now.  And probably a fight, too, given the way tempers were going.  Cars unable to get across the bridge were turning round where possible, but the road was jammed the other way, too, so that wasn't easy at all, and some were trying to get through a side street the wrong way, too.  I overtook it all and got away.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 17 January, 2013, 09:18:09 am
Well, that didn't seem too bad.
I put on an extra layer, fearing it'd be totally Baltic, and by the time I reached E17 I felt decidedly overdressed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Morrisette on 17 January, 2013, 09:59:05 am
Bloody hell it is cold.
That is all.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 17 January, 2013, 10:04:15 am
Cold this morning, but there were still bare knees out there!  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimC on 17 January, 2013, 10:20:52 am
-7C this morning, but Mrs C just got on the bike and rode to work. As always. Respect!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 17 January, 2013, 10:23:41 am
One of those convoluted journeys this morning, though some extra miles on the legs is not a bad thing.

Apparently there was a fire on a train at Victoria this morning.

I miss the 0711 slow train from Feltham.  I get the 0716 semi fast.  Arrives platform 4 at 07:38, get off at Clapham Junction, go to platform 12 to do the one stop to Victoria (avoids being too sweaty when I get in) - and no trains to Victoria.

Go back to platform 3 and get on the train that arrives at 07:48 - which is the 07:11 train I missed originally.  Cycle up from Waterloo, but only in the office 15 minutes later.

Bit hot and sweaty though - vest, long sleeve thin jersey, scarf, thick Gore padded jacket.

New (thankfully cheap) Crane cycling tights on this morning - won't be buying any more of those - they don't come up very far at the waist as I would expect cycling tights to do.  Pad is huge as well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 17 January, 2013, 10:30:05 am
Quote from: JonBuoy on 17 January, 2013, 07:09:57 am
That is fine by me but that wasn't really the question - it was my suggestion for the title of your new topic in NSFW.

D'you know, I totally missed reading that as 'commode' and read it as 'commute' ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 17 January, 2013, 10:36:59 am
Quote from: Andrij on 17 January, 2013, 10:04:15 am
Cold this morning, but there were still bare knees out there!  :o

Any T-shirts???

I am always amazed (mainly because I am nesh and feel the cold terribly) by people in summer clothing in the depths of winter!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 17 January, 2013, 10:49:29 am
Quote from: Pickled Onion on 16 January, 2013, 10:04:41 am
I administered a few strong words to the bloke, who was apologetic, but I didn't press the matter because really it was her own fault. You can't simply ride full pelt at a bunch of pedestrians and expect them to magically part, even if you are going ting ting ting (her comment was "didn't you hear my bell?"). They have every right to be on the road, even if the traffic lights are against them.

Quite. Anyone who cycles in London should learn pretty quickly that pedestrians are liable to step off the pavement without looking, but they're generally quite easy to avoid if you ride sensibly.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 17 January, 2013, 10:51:43 am
-9C air temperature when I left (-11C with wind-chill)
Normal riding time, circa 45min - F.A.R.T.1 time: 1h05 - bloody hard work, not only because of the cold but also because of panniers full of JunkTM:

However, I had the right tool for the job:

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/59944_10151187013946636_875262224_n.jpg)

For dealing with stuff like this  (black ice by the bucketload - I came off on a surface similar to this a couple of days ago):

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/205894_10151187048411636_1978076770_n.jpg)

But a bit of this:

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/3411_10151187048491636_313815533_n.jpg)

More than made up for the cold.


1 - Fatbike Adjusted Ride Time
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 17 January, 2013, 11:25:25 am
Simon, you'll be delighted to know that YCC have deployed their cycle-path gritter (well, 'briner').

However, they aren't doing all the paths and aren't saying which ones they will do.

I feel the need to write a Seriously Sarcastic letter.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 17 January, 2013, 11:33:48 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 17 January, 2013, 11:25:25 am
Simon, you'll be delighted to know that YCC have deployed their cycle-path gritter (well, 'briner').

However, they aren't doing all the paths and aren't saying which ones they will do.
Well that's good to know  ::-)

Once I got over the Millennium Bridge the paths were all in pretty good nick, even Walmgate Stray; from then on I stuck to the road (almost literally given that the tyres were at 'ice' pressures)

Might revert back to the singlespeed tomorrow - 2.2" hardpack tyres will make for an easier ride than Pugsley's 4" monsters.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 17 January, 2013, 01:27:43 pm
This morning I made my winter's first track in the snow. Tomorrow I expect I will make one much longer than one metre. Snow has been very rare south of the hills in Glamorgan this year.



   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: R_nger on 17 January, 2013, 02:13:30 pm
-5 for me this morning, roads fine, but I was glad I had a second pair of gloves in the bag as I couldn't feel my fingers after a mile !
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 17 January, 2013, 02:42:27 pm
Good ride this morning. Slow due to nose to tail traffic from Clapham Common right out to Battersea Park.
I don't think I've seen it this bad for ages.
However, I will need to find an emergency extra base layer before I go home tonight because it was v.bloody cold on the way in and as a result my hands got cold before I warmed up properly. They were warming up by the end of the ride though so not too bad.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 17 January, 2013, 02:46:10 pm
I'm considering a pair of J. Sainsbury's finest vapour barriers1 for the ride home - my feet were bloody freezing when I got in to work this morning, despite wearing my woolly hiking socks. Fortunately, I had the foresight to pack a spare pair of merino socks 'just in case' - these will also get worn.

I'm pretty much resigned to having cold hands, though - the Planet X winter gloves were a bit of a let-down, and even if I had packed my glove liners I'd not have got the gloves on over them.

Fortunately(?) it's going to be warmer tomorrow, although 'warmer' is entirely relative (ie. it'll be sub-zero still, but not as sub-zero as today)

1 - disposable carrier bags.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Bender on 17 January, 2013, 03:35:25 pm
(http://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQOG_Ru71e3dM6LdxZdrAGUit--7JDdvzrGTvOfBRBosyE67c1X)
I'm using these, toasty  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 17 January, 2013, 10:01:34 pm
Went to conference in Marble Arch, thankful that the cold weather meant that as long as I pootled I wouldn't show up a sweaty mess. Think I may have seen Tigerrrr in Hyde Park. Some of the roads, including Vauxhall Bridge, were a pleasure without cars (police were happy to let cyclists through, it seemed).

Forgot how much fun Hyde Park Corner can be when I took it on the way back (seriously!)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 18 January, 2013, 09:57:06 am
I’ve temporarily changed my commute to take in Vauxhall Bridge because it’s just so damn pleasant with no cars on it. Snow swirling all around. If it’s very treacherous on the way home, I’ll either walk or take the Brom on a bus.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 January, 2013, 10:07:56 am
I was soooo tempted to go over Vauxhall Bridge just because it would be so nice without the cars.  But I was struggling with headwind and feeling tired (and being a bit late), so I went on to work through the back streets.

Incidentally, I saw a slim, good-looking gentleman on a Brompton near yours, NSTN.  Could that have been your OH?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 18 January, 2013, 10:18:49 am
Rode in wearing salopettes, fleece and mountain jacket. Pedalled along steadily and arrived warm and comfortable.

Amusingly I passed the idiot that overtook a touch too close while on his phone...

He'd lost it and crashed into a signpost.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 18 January, 2013, 10:23:05 am
Quote from: clarion on 18 January, 2013, 10:07:56 am
I was soooo tempted to go over Vauxhall Bridge just because it would be so nice without the cars.  But I was struggling with headwind and feeling tired (and being a bit late), so I went on to work through the back streets.

Incidentally, I saw a slim, good-looking gentleman on a Brompton near yours, NSTN.  Could that have been your OH?

It was utterly blissful and I didn't notice a headwind. I don't normally use it because turning right can be a trial with the traffic, but no problems this morning.

Unlikely to be my OH, seeing as I'm on his Brompton at the moment while I wait for mine be be made (though he does get it back Thursday nights so he can ride it to his wargames). He took my LHT to work this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 January, 2013, 10:41:15 am
Quote from: davelodwig on 18 January, 2013, 10:18:49 am
Rode in wearing salopettes, fleece and mountain jacket. Pedalled along steadily and arrived warm and comfortable.

Amusingly I passed the idiot that overtook a touch too close while on his phone...

He'd lost it and crashed into a signpost.

Oh dear.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 18 January, 2013, 10:47:04 am
Quote from: clarion on 18 January, 2013, 10:41:15 am
Quote from: davelodwig on 18 January, 2013, 10:18:49 am
Rode in wearing salopettes, fleece and mountain jacket. Pedalled along steadily and arrived warm and comfortable.

Amusingly I passed the idiot that overtook a touch too close while on his phone...

He'd lost it and crashed into a signpost.

Oh dear.

No injures it seemed, just an upset looking chap staring forlornly at the signpost wedged into his bonnet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 January, 2013, 10:49:02 am
You have to feel sorry for the poor fellow, though don't you?  Don't you?  No?  OK, perhaps not. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 18 January, 2013, 11:00:23 am
It's time these scofflaw signposts started wearing hi viz and helmets.

<feels warm glow of schadenfreude>
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 18 January, 2013, 11:50:03 am
A relatively easy commute in the light snow.  It's only just snowing enough to actually call it snow, but nevertheless people suddenly stop being able to drive in a sane manner :-\ (even more so than usual).

The bits across the commons were nice, because the fresh snow made the studded tyres blissfully quiet. :thumbsup:

The snow does also seem to have reduced the number of people trying to get to Vauxhall, or after three days they may have actually started to realise that traffic could be a bit problematic.  There were still backlogs along Queenstown Road though.  Thankfully after I'd crossed the river, the traffic was relatively light.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 18 January, 2013, 11:54:44 am
got fed up sitting at home (didn't even go outside for a week, post operation), so cycled into work. legs were thinking wtf and didn't want to move in circles. lost 2.5kg during last week as due to lack of appetite,- which was noticeable when cycling. looking out the window, riding home might be interesting
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 18 January, 2013, 12:24:55 pm
At 6am this morning it seemed surprisingly warm.  I had a bit of a longer commute than usual and by the last mile, the temper had dropped noticeably.  However, I got to work before the snow started and it hasn't settled on the OKR.  However, the playground is full of it, and I have challenged some Year 6's to a snowball fight.  Gulp!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 18 January, 2013, 12:39:51 pm
Quote from: davelodwig on 18 January, 2013, 10:47:04 am
Quote from: clarion on 18 January, 2013, 10:41:15 am
Quote from: davelodwig on 18 January, 2013, 10:18:49 am
Rode in wearing salopettes, fleece and mountain jacket. Pedalled along steadily and arrived warm and comfortable.

Amusingly I passed the idiot that overtook a touch too close while on his phone...

He'd lost it and crashed into a signpost.

Oh dear.

No injures it seemed, just an upset looking chap staring forlornly at the signpost wedged into his bonnet.

The scary thing of course is that signpost could just as easily have been a cyclist or pedestrian.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 18 January, 2013, 01:01:41 pm
Blimey, fat tyres at 45 psi are hard work.

Slower ride in therefore, but toasty warm. One of my regular commuter racers went past as I got to Redhill. He was on his Bianchi, sans mudguards, with 23mm tyres. He might have an interesting ride home.

Me, I'm off to the LBS during my lunch. On the bike. Because I'm naughty donkey. (http://www.velominati.com/the-rules/#9)   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 18 January, 2013, 01:16:18 pm
It looked so fine outside Jurek Towers at 06:00 this morning, I came sooooooooooooooooooo close to getting into the Lycra and onto the fixer.

Alas, my instincts not to were correct.

It would've been a ride in one direction only.

Here in the badlands of E17 it is deep and crisp and even.

And white.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 18 January, 2013, 01:20:29 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 18 January, 2013, 01:16:18 pm
It looked so fine outside Jurek Towers at 06:00 this morning, I came sooooooooooooooooooo close to getting into the Lycra and onto the fixer.

Alas, my instincts not to were correct.

It would've been a ride in one direction only.

Here in the badlands of E17 it is deep and crisp and even.

And white.

Wuss!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 18 January, 2013, 01:30:38 pm
Wuss in boots.  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 January, 2013, 01:38:06 pm
Not badass.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 18 January, 2013, 01:49:43 pm
No snow other than a few stray flakes today but the wind is really quite strong. Strong enough to bring down the pebbledashing on a building across the street from my flat.

I'm getting rather bored of trudging around on snow studs now, especially as there's very litle ice round here.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 18 January, 2013, 02:11:24 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 18 January, 2013, 01:01:41 pm
Blimey, fat tyres at 45 psi are hard work.

Slower ride in therefore, but toasty warm. One of my regular commuter racers went past as I got to Redhill. He was on his Bianchi, sans mudguards, with 23mm tyres. He might have an interesting ride home.

Me, I'm off to the LBS during my lunch. On the bike. Because I'm naughty donkey. (http://www.velominati.com/the-rules/#9)

And now back from the LBS, lighter in wallet to the tune of 1 chain, which broke on the way there. Bah.

LBS fitted a new one while I went to buy a pie, and charged only for the chain.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 18 January, 2013, 02:26:23 pm
Well, I've made it home.  (They closed our building)  A bit hairy scarey at times, and I walked down the big long hill.
There'll be no cycling this weekend.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 18 January, 2013, 03:19:11 pm
Sent home early.
Yesssssss!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 18 January, 2013, 04:00:48 pm
Sent home early too & a good job they did, it took just over 2hours to cover 15miles, the main roads were bad but the back roads were horrendous.  I was on the mtb but still had the slicks on so no real traction, I did drop the pressure right down & that helped.  Still fell off twice with soft landings though & had to walk the last 3.5miles.  Wouldn't have fancied it in the dark. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 January, 2013, 04:06:40 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 18 January, 2013, 03:19:11 pm
Sent home early.
Yesssssss!

Try to enjoy your avelopic trudge homewards. ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 18 January, 2013, 05:04:05 pm
Quote from: clarion on 18 January, 2013, 04:06:40 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 18 January, 2013, 03:19:11 pm
Sent home early.
Yesssssss!

Try to enjoy your avelopic trudge homewards. ;)
Shirley you mean sansvelopic trudge  ;)
It was the ginger line that brought me home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 18 January, 2013, 05:07:32 pm
Most of our lab came into work.  I think only one person didn't make it in, and he was feeling a bit enlurgied, plus he comes in from afar, so was at risk of being stuck here with our oh-so-reliable railway system.

I'm in no rush, there's thing I need to get finished.  The last time I looked, it had stopped snowing, although it's a little brisk outside.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 18 January, 2013, 05:46:18 pm
Just home, took the main road route which was largely clear of snow, but the temperature was dropping and bits of the melt were already beginning to freeze.   Big lorries on the Old Kent Rd were being very slow and respectful of us little people on bikes, or so it seemed to me. Traffic was light, but some of what there was seemed to think that emptier roads presented an opportunity to speed. As I rode round the New Cross gyratory, some big Audi thing accelerated up so fast, the collected snow on the roof flew off, engulfing me in a momentary blizzard. 
Just rang my boss, who rides in from Bromley,  and whom I left at school still working, to warn him that even the main roads are icing up, now the traffic has cleared this mornings grit and salt.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: helen_miles on 18 January, 2013, 06:14:58 pm
Heavy snow, sheet ice, gridlocked traffic, marathon winters. Most fun ride home ever. I almost went back out again for a second go at it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 18 January, 2013, 06:44:37 pm
Not much snow. Enough to cause those without winter tyres on their motors to have a bit of trouble. Studs on the bike were wonderful though hard work.

..d
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 18 January, 2013, 06:45:15 pm
BBC News has footage of a 4x4 on its side  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 18 January, 2013, 06:45:19 pm
And it was a bit norty to stop to do this on the way home..

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8192/8391987203_42ca510bec_z.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davidmam/8391987203/)
I c u (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davidmam/8391987203/) by davidmamartin (http://www.flickr.com/people/davidmam/), on Flickr
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 18 January, 2013, 07:05:20 pm
roads were just wet (=good) at 6pm in central london, so no dramas coming home. however when locking up my bike at home secure car park i felt someone's watching me

(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JBB on 18 January, 2013, 07:17:55 pm
I've only been commuting by bike since the beginning of the month. Only 7.5 miles each way - Redlynch to Odstock for those that know the area. Really quiet this morning - well rugged up on the MTB - and aren't Rainlegs marvellous when you REALLY need them!
Went down the middle of the road (A338) to overtake the Salisbury bound queue then through the lanes to Odstock.
Then sent home for the day!
Cross-country ride in the snow - only fell off once but had to walk a bit as the light was very flat and I couldn't see the bumps very well ( being under 10cm of snow didn't help much either).

Home by 10:30 to have a hot shower and light the log-burner (sequentially NOT simultaneously).
Perfect day and have the photos as an aide-memoire.....

Julia
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 18 January, 2013, 11:29:54 pm
I have a mathcyclical formula for you:

Snow + Trike = (Epic)3


However, passed an overturned car on the A34 just south of Congleton. Police and Ambulance in attendance - hope occupants OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 19 January, 2013, 12:15:46 am
I'm not sure if there was much ice on my commute home, shiny ice and wet roads are going to look much the same, but with the Marathon Winters any icy went by unnoticed!

That was probably one of the quietest Friday night commutes ever, even though most of the roads were pretty much clear of any snow, still with quite a lot of the salt that has been put on them recently, I would imagine.  I'm not going to tell the normal Friday lunatics though. :)  There were a few small bits of snow I had to traverse, across Clapham Common, and at the Croydon end, a few of the local roads, but that wasn't a problem, with a bit of care.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: geoff on 20 January, 2013, 11:48:23 am
I commuted the bridleway after being sent home on Friday...

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0epI9vyeRgA/UPvZCsxBYEI/AAAAAAAAAXM/ayk6c0Ass0g/h120/20130118_160809+%28Small%29.jpg)

..why is this picture sooo tiny?

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 20 January, 2013, 12:11:25 pm
Quote from: geoff on 20 January, 2013, 11:48:23 am
..why is this picture sooo tiny?

... because that was what you asked the server to provide?

A little experimentation with the URL produced a larger image.  The webserver will only produce what you asked it to, if you took the URL from a thumbnailed image, that's what you get.  You should have probably taken it from a full sized image.

I removed the "h120" from it, which looked like it was a mechanism to thumbnail the image to one that's 120 pixels high. ie from this:

 https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0ep ... s0g/h120/20130118_160809+%28Small%29.jpg

to this:

 https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0ep ... s0g/20130118_160809.jpg

(I also removed the "Small" from the filename as well, but that didn't seem to make any difference).
 
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0epI9vyeRgA/UPvZCsxBYEI/AAAAAAAAAXM/ayk6c0Ass0g/20130118_160809.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 20 January, 2013, 12:14:23 pm
Tim beat me to it :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 20 January, 2013, 01:44:28 pm
Quote from: geoff on 20 January, 2013, 11:48:23 am
I commuted the bridleway after being sent home on Friday...

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0epI9vyeRgA/UPvZCsxBYEI/AAAAAAAAAXM/ayk6c0Ass0g/h120/20130118_160809+%28Small%29.jpg)

..why is this picture sooo tiny?

<mode=father ted>
Because you're a long way away.
</mode>
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 20 January, 2013, 04:16:56 pm
Is anybody else feeling a little bit nervous about the commute tomorrow?  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 20 January, 2013, 04:36:31 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 20 January, 2013, 04:16:56 pm
Is anybody else feeling a little bit nervous about the commute tomorrow?  :-\

Main roads in London should be fine, albeit a bit mucky. I'll be wheeling the bike down to Lee High Road though - seen enough cars sliding around on the road outside the house today not to want to chance the hill.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 20 January, 2013, 04:54:19 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 20 January, 2013, 04:36:31 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 20 January, 2013, 04:16:56 pm
Is anybody else feeling a little bit nervous about the commute tomorrow?  :-\

Main roads in London should be fine, albeit a bit mucky. I'll be wheeling the bike down to Lee High Road though - seen enough cars sliding around on the road outside the house today not to want to chance the hill.

That's what I was thinking just wheeling the bike onto Hither Green Lane, and factoring in an extra 30 minutes. I would rather do this than get on that bloody train.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 20 January, 2013, 05:40:13 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 20 January, 2013, 04:16:56 pm
Is anybody else feeling a little bit nervous about the commute tomorrow?  :-\

Yes!  I'll be setting off half an hour early & sticking to main roads.  Not looking forward to it to be honest.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: her_welshness on 20 January, 2013, 06:59:57 pm
Quote from: fungus on 20 January, 2013, 05:40:13 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 20 January, 2013, 04:16:56 pm
Is anybody else feeling a little bit nervous about the commute tomorrow?  :-\

Yes!  I'll be setting off half an hour early & sticking to main roads.  Not looking forward to it to be honest.

Am definitely cycling in tomorrow, southeastern trains have already started cancelling services and its going to be chaos!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 20 January, 2013, 07:02:33 pm
Quote from: her_welshness on 20 January, 2013, 04:16:56 pm
Is anybody else feeling a little bit nervous about the commute tomorrow?  :-\

Having almost lost the wheel from under myself today, I'm giving serious thought to walking into work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 20 January, 2013, 07:04:21 pm
Not me, but then again the roads are dry and there's no snow up here. I'm deciding whether to take the bike with snow studs or just use normal marathons.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 20 January, 2013, 08:03:13 pm
Train(s) for me tomorrow, methinks.
Meh!  >:(

As a curiosity.... where does all the muck come from when it snows?
How is it that rainwater puddles do not contain as much filth as snow meltwater ones do?

Aside from that, it was quite pretty out there today :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 January, 2013, 08:15:42 pm
I'm not worried about ice or snow tomorrow, though the Lower Lea Crossing was a challenge heading East, and a nusance heading West later, when there was more snow on it.  Oh - and the bike went down (I didn't) when I met an obscured kerb at an acute angle.

No, what bothers me and gives me serious clenching moments is the idiots in motor cars who:

i. Won't have cleared their windows
ii. Won't have woken up properly
iii. Won't have fitted winter tyres
iv. Won't adapt their driving to the circumstances
v. Will try to push me into the gutter where there's rutted ice and potholes and disguised crap and stuff.

etc etc etc. >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 20 January, 2013, 08:15:58 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 20 January, 2013, 08:03:13 pm
As a curiosity.... where does all the muck come from when it snows?

Bikes.

I came home on Friday with a previously mucky bike nicely caked with snow.  Tactically left it on a granny-mat to catch the drips, and returned some hours later to find a large muddy puddle (that had, alas, partially escaped the granny-mat and stained the carpet) and a splendidly clean bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 20 January, 2013, 08:32:55 pm
Quote from: clarion on 20 January, 2013, 08:15:42 pm
I'm not worried about ice or snow tomorrow, though the Lower Lea Crossing was a challenge heading East, and a nusance heading West later, when there was more snow on it.  Oh - and the bike went down (I didn't) when I met an obscured kerb at an acute angle.

No, what bothers me and gives me serious clenching moments is the idiots in motor cars who:

i. Won't have cleared their windows
ii. Won't have woken up properly
iii. Won't have fitted winter tyres
iv. Won't adapt their driving to the circumstances
v. Will try to push me into the gutter where there's rutted ice and potholes and disguised crap and stuff.

etc etc etc. >:(

+1
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 20 January, 2013, 08:35:26 pm
I'm planning on waking up at stupid o'clock tomorrow, and cycling in before the cars have made too much of a mess of the roads, and also hopefully missing most of them.  This will end up with me being in work three hours (or more) before I normally turn up, and I won't be able to leave early because that would drop me into the middle of the evening rush hour(s)!

Most of the snow I'll have to contend with, will be on the first 2/3 mile from my house to a mainish road, the bits across the commons (Tooting Bec and Clapham), and possibly a little around work.  From Friday, none of it was problematic, so long as I remember where the kerbs are!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 20 January, 2013, 08:44:50 pm
Whereas I have plotted an A road only route and intend to leave later than normal in the hope that the traffic will clear the roads.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adrian on 20 January, 2013, 09:10:08 pm
Quote from: Basil on 20 January, 2013, 08:44:50 pm
Whereas I have plotted an A road only route and intend to leave later than normal in the hope that the traffic will clear the roads.
Good thinking, I hope
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 20 January, 2013, 09:19:33 pm
The forecast seems to change by the hour... It was saying rain overnight which would mean it was warm enough to melt the snow that's been snowing all day. Now it's looking like it'll stay below zero, so I reckon I'll have to take the bus to the station in the morning.  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 20 January, 2013, 10:27:34 pm
The Met Office forecast for here (Croydon) has the temperatures being a couple of degrees above zero, at best, for the next few days (XCWeather has -7°C on some nights, but I don't believe that).  Given the variation which is possible, it could easily stay below zero, and we'd end up with varying amounts of snow and/or ice for the rest if the week.  If it does rain, it'll likely soon wash away a lot of the snow, but could then freeze easily overnight, leaving some "interesting" sheet ice.

Most of my route will be well gritted, probably only around 10% to 15% isn't main roads (partly depending on some choices which I can make), so doing it on Marathon Winters, I'm pretty safe.  The biggest worry I've got, is whether to drop the pressure, and increase the grip.  At the moment the tyres are still at around 80psi, which is near the maximum they should be pumped up to.  Dropping them anywhere down to 30psi will improve grip, but at the cost of them becoming very hard work. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 21 January, 2013, 05:50:41 am
Just popped out to check the road condition before I leave in a few minutes.  Brockley Rd is absolutely clear of snow and ice.  So I am guessing the main roads will be fine.  Even my little road is not too bad and, even though I got the Roberts out last night, I think the Holdsworth would have been fine.
I have been tucked up in bed with the lurgy all weekend, so missed having a bit of bike fun in the snow.  There isn't as much as I expected, watching the news yesterday. I thought it was going to be really deep.
Did anyone else see the re run of the 1963 documentary about the winter that year?  Brought a nostalgic tear to my eye.  Being only about 5 at the time, I don't remember the bad bits so much. Apart from the bone crunching cold (one open fire in one room, no central heating), with sheets and blankets so chilled, even with a hot water bottle, it was actually painful getting into bed. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 21 January, 2013, 08:11:17 am
Most of the roads were almost entirely clear, excepting the very local roads near to my house, some of which are no-through, so see little traffic.  On studded tyres none of that was too bad however.

The cycle paths were another matter.  On one, there had been a significant amount of pedestrian traffic (a shared use path), but those footprints had then frozen, leaving a very interesting surface to cycle on!  The worst bit was the Clapham Common cycle path.  If you don't need to go that way, I'd avoid it.  It had had more cycle traffic than most of the other bits of cycle route I'd used, and was more churned up in places, which made it fairly lethal.  Looking at the tracks left, it looks like most of those users had been using narrow high pressure tyres, and had cut deep ruts, which have variously either formed hard lines which catch your tyre, or mashed the material up into a slushy, icy, slippery mess.  It wasn't helped by some of them being seemingly incapable of cycling in a straight line, so their path weaved back and forth across the path.

If the weather hasn't caused it to depart by this evening, I'll be looking at another route home which avoids going across that common.  Tooting Bec Common was a little slippery in places, but much easier than Clapham Common.  I didn't actually come off on Clapham Common, but the wheels slid significantly on a lot of occasions, and I had one foot out and ready to put it on the ground because it got so unsteady.

I checked the temperatures before I left, and most stations were reporting around -1°C, and it felt quite mild.  Thankfully there was virtually no wind, so it was quite easy going.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 21 January, 2013, 08:40:29 am
+1 to Tim's comments.  So for Londoners at least, the main roads are fine.  I extended my commute a bit this morning to take in a couple of bridges- London and Tower.  No  problems until I turned into the estate where I work- lots of slushy snow, compacted hard by a few vehicles, which nearly took me out.  But riding through the snow around the rest of the estate was fun. 
    Tim's right, that deeply rutted, compacted ice and snow is the nasty.  In 2010, I think, , I spent the one day our school was closed romping around with the Roberts Roughstuff  on Blackheath in the deep snow which was wonderful, until I rode back on to the shared path, deeply rutted and solid ice.  Whooops!  I'm not sure even studded tyres can cope with that kind of surface.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 21 January, 2013, 09:14:04 am
Well in their third winter my snow studs have finally been introduced to snow. The roads were completely clear, and at the work end of my commute the only snow is that which cars have transpirted to site themselves, but the cyclepaths were about 1-2cm deep in Egremont.

I was impressed by how much quieter my ride in was this morning without the studs rattling against the tarmac, but the surface didn't seem to have any affect on the bike's grip :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 21 January, 2013, 09:35:22 am
1.75" slicks aren't the best tyres to be using on snow and ice
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 January, 2013, 09:43:17 am
It was a bit dodgy getting out of our roads this morning (did I mention I saw a man fall over yesterday?  Rather, I saw him sat on the ground through a gap between two parked cars, and hadn't seen him walking, so I went back to help, but he was all right).

Once on the main(ish) road, it was pretty much OK.  Traffic was relatively light, and there were other cyclists about, including the usual proportion of dickheads.  In previous winters, it's tended to be the more serious cyclists who have continued through, but there were people without lights, jumping red lights, pushing past at stops, squeezing past lorries, and boxing people in.  Hey ho.  I managed to get free of all that.  Even with the studded tyres, I was faster than almost all the other commuters.  The ones who were faster than me were very fast, and tended to do at least one of the above, so I wasn't chasing anyone.  A day for following my own pace.

The tyres slipped a bit on slushy snow.  Tbf, that was more the snow slipping on itself.  The only challenging roads after leaving Carshalton were the ones approaching work though, if I had diverted slightly, there was one of the roads clear, which is a relief, as I know that the doctors can get in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 21 January, 2013, 09:53:18 am
I have mislaid my clear glasses. Riding in to day into the face of 25mph driven snow was painful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 21 January, 2013, 09:55:44 am
I am getting much admiration for cycling in which is really not deserved, because all the main roads in London are perfectly clear. I didn’t bother trying to cycle out of my estate on the compacted snow or going my normal backstreet route, I just walked the bike out to the main roads and stuck to them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 21 January, 2013, 10:08:38 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 21 January, 2013, 09:55:44 am
I am getting much admiration for cycling in which is really not deserved, because all the main roads in London are perfectly clear. I didn’t bother trying to cycle out of my estate on the compacted snow or going my normal backstreet route, I just walked the bike out to the main roads and stuck to them.

Exactly that for me, too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 21 January, 2013, 10:13:11 am
I'm afraid I went for the train option, even though I know the main roads are clear of snow - much of my commute, particularly round Homerton, Lower Clapton is either on very quiet roads (where I rarely encounter any other traffic) or dedicated cycle / canal paths where the snow would not have cleared.

I heard quite enough squeaking from my bottom on Saturday to not be too keen to repeat the experience.

The train journey in Was Not Fun  :(

Oddly enough, of the five I share an office with, I am the only one to have turned up, so far - and they're all local to here!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 21 January, 2013, 10:21:12 am
I forgot to add, the office is half empty here, but the bike shed is full* :thumbsup:

In this weather last year I'd have been the only cyclist who had ridden in.

* Considering the fact that the main roads are clear, and we have a higher than normal %age of off-road 4x4s then what does that say about the drivers ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 January, 2013, 11:12:53 am
Two person unable to get in today.  She travels from South Croydon (second furthest after me), where trains don't always stop in snow conditions.  The other has a domestic plumbing disaster to attend to.

Driving in from Camden took one doctor nearly two hours.  My moving time was 58 minutes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 21 January, 2013, 11:18:43 am
Quote from: Basil on 20 January, 2013, 08:44:50 pm
Whereas I have plotted an A road only route and intend to leave later than normal in the hope that the traffic will clear the roads.

That's exactly what I did & it worked  :thumbsup:

Edit: I rode in on the mtb with panracer fire mud pro tyres fitted which are good in the snow but blummin hard work on the roads. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 21 January, 2013, 12:03:47 pm
roads were just wet on my commute, i left a bit earlier and arrived earlier for no reason. saw a cyclist on the floor near old street covered with jackets and other clothes, paramedics on the way - not sure what's happened there as i couldn't see any clues of an accident, his/her brommie folded nearby, i hope nothing major..
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 21 January, 2013, 12:07:21 pm
Wot Tim said about Clapham Common. I rode on the grass.
I dropped the tyre pressures a tad and the bike is behaving a lot better on rutted ice than beforehand.

Saw to ladies riding with Cristiana-type tricyles laden down with kids. They seemed to be perfectly happy on the snow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 21 January, 2013, 12:58:01 pm
I walked past three houses on my street and on to the shared road with a good surface. Mounted and rode down Bryn Derwen, Drysgol Road and Windsor Road as far as the corner where I pushed the bike along the path to Parc Radyr.  Big mistake, I expected these minor streets to be better than mine but they were worse so I had to walk to the exit road which was clear enough.  I turned on to the A4419. At the T Junction I took a sharper line than usual to avoid the snow.  I decided not to cut through Miskin. It looked clear but the road could be tricky in a quieter section. So I took the square around Miskin and Pontyclun. The A473 was mostly good but I needed to be careful in places.  I didn't have any problems until I rejoined the A473 after Pencoed.  I was surprised to see that the busy roundabout was not clear. I was directed into the middle lane before I could flee to the edge where I feel safe. Then it was straight forward until I arrived at work and decided to walk across the very slippery car park.

A roads easy with care.
Lesser roads need attention.
 
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 21 January, 2013, 01:41:33 pm
Almost normal today. Had to wheel the bike to the end of the road where it joins a larger road, as our little street hasn't seen any grit since last winter, but once I was on the main roads everything was fine except for under the railway bridge near Westminster Bridge, where I think I felt a bit of ice.. May be a bit trickier going home tonight if the snow that has melted decides to freeze but, again, I anticipate staying on A roads as long as possible.

Drivers seemed to be, in general, being extra-civilised.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 21 January, 2013, 01:57:03 pm
Main roads were slushed up to buggery, but I waved thanks to about 5 drivers, I was like the pope, they were super cautious and patient.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 21 January, 2013, 02:11:07 pm
Snow is settling on roads in Leeds, temp dropped below 0.

Not actually looking forward to fighting through traffic on slicks. I really, really should have put the Marathon Winters on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tynan on 21 January, 2013, 05:58:28 pm
not for me, wet roads and temperatures around freezing means risk of ice for me, especially on the way home, a sedate trundle  on Boris bike between London Bridge to Liverpool Street will do for me. Depend where you start from I suppose, Central London is fine but it's a lot icier and colder and earlier/later in E4
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 21 January, 2013, 06:16:40 pm
This is the forecast. I am not looking forwad to the ride home.
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8236/8403033798_aee6207e03_z.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davidmam/8403033798/)
weather (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davidmam/8403033798/) by davidmamartin (http://www.flickr.com/people/davidmam/), on Flickr
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 21 January, 2013, 06:18:29 pm
Roads were wet this evening on the way home, but it was just starting to settle as I got home and now the roads are covered again.

Looks like the snow bike will be out for a little while yet. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 January, 2013, 08:26:20 pm
Horizontal snow, David?  Bad luck!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: geoff on 21 January, 2013, 08:45:12 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 20 January, 2013, 01:44:28 pm
Quote from: geoff on 20 January, 2013, 11:48:23 am
I commuted the bridleway after being sent home on Friday...

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0epI9vyeRgA/UPvZCsxBYEI/AAAAAAAAAXM/ayk6c0Ass0g/h120/20130118_160809+%28Small%29.jpg)

..why is this picture sooo tiny?

<mode=father ted>
Because you're a long way away.
</mode>


Careful, I'll be telling Mrs Doyle about you....

Quote from: TimO on 20 January, 2013, 12:11:25 pm
Quote from: geoff on 20 January, 2013, 11:48:23 am
..why is this picture sooo tiny?

... because that was what you asked the server to provide?

A little experimentation with the URL produced a larger image. 

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0epI9vyeRgA/UPvZCsxBYEI/AAAAAAAAAXM/ayk6c0Ass0g/20130118_160809.jpg)

Quote from: mcshroom on 20 January, 2013, 12:14:23 pm
Tim beat me to it :)

Thanks for the help...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 21 January, 2013, 09:28:44 pm
Rather like Tim, my morning ride in was OK once I'd worked out to avoid the tracks in the cycle path.
During the day, however, the firm snow / ice had turned into firm slush with tracks in. I did about 300m of this, with more slippery excitement than a bath with your lover, and turned round to head for the station. From the station home the roads were cleared and fine to ride. Tomorrow's forecast suggests a re-run so I'll leave the bike at home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 21 January, 2013, 09:29:44 pm
Quote from: David Martin on 21 January, 2013, 06:16:40 pm
This is the forecast. I am not looking forwad to the ride home.

I'm guessing you live to the east of work. Hope you're home and warmed up now!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 21 January, 2013, 10:32:50 pm
The trike is proving it's worth it's (rather heavy) weight in gold this last couple of weeks.

Only problem is I seem to have run the drive train into the ground a little. Derailleur hanger breakage before Christmas, and chain breakage this evening. Unfortunately I managed to pull the chain fully out of the top two chain tubes before I realised what had happened. Took me a good half hour to rethread everything and join the chain, then cycle gingerly home. Repair is going to have to last at least a week as well.

I've got everything I need to replace it all - just need to finish the alfine rear wheel build.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 21 January, 2013, 10:38:06 pm
Quote from: clarion on 21 January, 2013, 08:26:20 pm
Horizontal snow, David?  Bad luck!

I think I have thawed out now. That was a bit unpleasant.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 21 January, 2013, 10:41:31 pm
A rather close overtake by a Big Green Parcel machine on the way to work caused me to shout and gesticulate. There was nothing on the opposite lane to prevent me being given more room. I committed the number plate to memory (until I forgot I was supposed to be remembering it).

The ride home was good, if chilly, but the spikey tyres did their stuff on what untreated roads I could find.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 21 January, 2013, 10:56:56 pm
I only saw one other cyclist this morning.  We commented to each other at a set of lights that it wasn't as bad as we had thought it would be.
You know?  With the increase in cycling, it is much more likely that the driver behind you is also a cyclist.  I'm pretty certain that I was being shepherded this morning as I made my way down a tricky slushy stretch in Bournville.  The car behind hung well back, and although there were a couple of places where even a most careful driver could have overtaken safely, they didn't.  They just kept station, holding back the traffic until I turned off. 

Little thumbs up wave from me.  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 21 January, 2013, 11:06:22 pm
I'm finding if there is snow/slush off the tyre line, with just wet on the tyre line, many motorists are unwilling to pass for fear of the slippery bits.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 21 January, 2013, 11:09:08 pm
Ride home, at about 8.30, was ok. Bit of ice starting to accumulate here and there. Main roads were clear but the hill up to my road was unrideable (happily no more than 200 yards long though) and my road itself is fit only for some kind of seasonal ice dancing spectacular. Roads were noticeably quieter - I guess a lot of people left early.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 21 January, 2013, 11:34:14 pm
I tried to find a route which avoided the Common cycle paths, and did, but still ended up with one section which was half a mile of lumpy, more or less solid ice.

Mostly it was better, but I still need to find another way to avoid that bit, which whilst I didn't have an off, was a bit unnerving!

Unfortunately, it's not the weather for using narrow hidden back roads, and crafty bicycle short cuts, because the cars do a pretty good job of spreading around the liberal application of salt that's been put down in recent days (on roads).  Cycle paths and shared use routes are sometimes OK, but mostly seem somewhere between lethal, and uncomfortable to cycle.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 22 January, 2013, 08:22:30 am
Chatt'rin' teeth, chatt'rin' teeth, chatt'rin' all the way
O what fun it is to ride in freezing fog today
Chatt'rin' teeth, chatt'rin' teeth, chatt'rin' all the way
O what fun it is to ride in freezing fog today

Riding through the murk on a two-wheeled open bike
Unlit motons lurk being as stupid as they like
Cycling carefully, can't see forty yards
OI you stupid motorists slow down your flamin' cars

O Chatt'rin' teeth, chatt'rin' teeth, chatt'rin' all the way
etc
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 22 January, 2013, 08:43:14 am
 ^^^ ;D  ;D  ;D

I let the train take the strain into work but have the bike with me to possibly ride home later.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 January, 2013, 08:56:20 am
I think Guy sums up today.  Fog, refrozen snow, numpty drivers with no lights, numpty cyclists too.

I've no energy today.  I think the chest infection is getting the better of me.  DAMN!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 22 January, 2013, 09:03:41 am
At least the trains are back to normal this morning!

I wasn't terribly impressed with the state of Belvedere Road, the bit between the barriers at Chicheley Street and Westminster Bridge, though.  A bit slushy in the main road, had to take it very carefully on a Brommie.  The rest was okay as it is all on main roads.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 22 January, 2013, 09:05:16 am
I dunno what it was this morning.  I only saw 7 cars.  One on just sidelights, two showing no lights at all, and, most remarkably, one going below the speed limit!!!111!!!1 :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 22 January, 2013, 09:29:27 am
'kin hell that was cold :o

I needed the hot shower to reinstate my anatomy.

My fingers were so cold I couldnt operate the light swithches on arrival at work.

Gone soft in the week I was off looking after our visiting 'Mekin.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 22 January, 2013, 09:45:50 am
Well, that was an *ahem* interesting ride in.
Mostly uneventful, except for one point where I nearly came off just as I came to a gradual stop – the bike went from under me, but I managed to stay on my feet.
Had to walk about a mile through the park I cut through, and the quiet streets  which follow it.
Surfaces there were lethal – at least in MTB shoes they were – some of you may recall me doing my Bambi-on-ice impression on one of the WARTYs – we had some more of that today….
Overall though sticking to the bus routes was absolutely fine – albeit not as pretty as my usual route, and a little longer. Pleased I took the bike though.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 January, 2013, 10:00:03 am
:thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 22 January, 2013, 12:11:40 pm
Dropped the pressure in the tyres a bit the other day and found that I was coping pretty well with everything I came across. So Marathon Winters (studded) at the right pressure are definitely the right answer for most of your commuting needs!

I still saw a surprising number of cyclists on Clapham Common (I've just been riding on the grass where the path has become too rutted, I would still use it Tim) and in Battersea Park which is a scary smooth icy skating rink if you don't have spike tyres on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lordy on 22 January, 2013, 07:26:23 pm
Commute on main roads today as bristol-bath cycle path frozen, I'd forgotten how nice it is overtaken all the car drivers stuck in traffic.  However, the return home in the snow was not such fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 22 January, 2013, 07:34:04 pm
Truce over. Lots of motorised numptiness tonight. And side roads still like skating rinks. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 22 January, 2013, 07:55:18 pm
Quote from: alexb on 22 January, 2013, 12:11:40 pm
Dropped the pressure in the tyres a bit the other day and found that I was coping pretty well with everything I came across. So Marathon Winters (studded) at the right pressure are definitely the right answer for most of your commuting needs!

Yes, I dropped mine from the 85psi or so that I'd pumped them up to previously.  Cycling along some solid ice road surfaces yesterday made me think it would be a good idea.  They're probably at around 40-50psi now, but that's guesswork!  Definitely harder work to move though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 22 January, 2013, 09:04:27 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 22 January, 2013, 07:34:04 pm
Truce over. Lots of motorised numptiness tonight. And side roads still like skating rinks.

This, exactly.  The main roads are, apart from the odd patch of slush/ice at junctions, pretty much clear.  So the drivers are back to their normal habits, and carrying them over to the side roads, which are even more hazardous than they were at the weekend.

Wasn't impressed to have a car up my arse while performing a semi-planned dismount outside our house earlier.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 22 January, 2013, 10:05:45 pm
Running at about 50psi on the studs. Only knocked on one window to inform the driver that his stop lights and indicators were going the way of the third policeman. I generally get a favourable response.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 January, 2013, 10:09:53 pm
Hit a maximum of 40kph for the first time in over a week.  Not easy on the flat with the MWs on.

Quite enjoyed my ride home, but I hit some wind after Tooting which hadn't read the weather forecast, and was going the wrong way. :(

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 22 January, 2013, 11:18:07 pm
Quote from: clarion on 22 January, 2013, 10:09:53 pm
I hit some wind after Tooting which hadn't read the weather forecast, and was going the wrong way. :(

Much like the drivers in Tooting. Obviously just going with the general ambiance of the area.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 23 January, 2013, 07:59:07 am
A bit warmer this morning. The patches of ice and packed snow which were "passable with care" yesterday had a film of water on them this morning, which made the ride a bit more "interesting" than usual.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 23 January, 2013, 08:57:03 am
That actually wasn't too bad. About 5 miles of ice/snow/rutted cyclepath, which was a bit jolty (MWs pumped up to 70psi). No worries about sliding tho so it was fairly enjoyable.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 23 January, 2013, 09:13:50 am
Back on the skittish little Holdsworth today.  The Roberts is great for ice and snow, but it's not a bike for whisking through London traffic, much too heavy and a much longer wheelbase.  I went the back route today and met just one patch of ice and snow, just before and after the railway footbridge which is part of LCN 22.  Strangely, there was a completely clear way through the ice on the footbridge itself.  I just got off and walked the icy bits. 
Now, the cold I have been fighting all week seems to be winning. not looking forward to the ride home, even though the conditions are so much better.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 January, 2013, 09:51:10 am
Roads were pretty much entirely clear of ice this morning.  Sadly not clear of morons.  At the very first crossroads, I set off as the lights changed, only to have three cars drive across my path, and one try to turn (against the lights) into the road I was exiting the junction on.  Fortunately, it was better after that, but only comparatively.  Near Kennington, a driver travelling at the same speed in the next lane as I was in the Bus Lane, suddenly moved across to where I was.  Fortunately, I saw him starting to move, and ducked across to the magic blue paint.  A mile further on, an oncoming big B*W wankpanzer drove past a passing place to block my lane.  A few years back, I might have just stopped and waited, but ICBA, so, once we'd come to a stop, I paused, then rode onto the (empty) pavement.  Loads more examples of stupidity, arrogance and incompetence this morning.  Ah well, there's plenty of them about.

I still enjoyed the ride.  The cyclists were, in the main, better behaved.  There was one wobbly idiot on a BSO with one brake disengaged, who pushed forward at a couple of junctions, and I was very cautious in passing him, but I was clear by my third red light.  Yesterday's idiot was a close call between the chap on a singlespeed with an almost flat rear wheel and only one brake, and the chap who actually hit my indicating left arm as he squeezed past to go forward while I was waiting for the lights to change. ::-)

It was fun trying to keep up with the faster lads.  The carbon fibre bikes are slowly coming out of hibernation again, and I managed to stay with a chap on an unladen stealth road bike (possibly a Planet X?), as we swapped the lead while not actually riding a wheel.  Sadly, he jumped a red light eventually, which I won't.  Same happened this morning with a very skilful Fuji Classic rider.  Not the fastest rider on the road, but challenging enough for me on the heavy bike. 

I am a bit fed up of stopping at a Stop Line, only to have six or seven slower cyclists stop beyond it.  I don't expect the waves to part for me.  I just expect road users to have a bit of sense and respect for the law. </whinge>
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 23 January, 2013, 11:11:30 am
Quote from: clarion on 23 January, 2013, 09:51:10 am

I am a bit fed up of stopping at a Stop Line, only to have six or seven slower cyclists stop beyond it.  I don't expect the waves to part for me.  I just expect road users to have a bit of sense and respect for the law. </whinge>

This pi--es me off more than anything else, especially when I have overtaken them some way back so they must know that I'm a bit quicker. I don't care too much about the fact they are breaking the law - more fool them - it's the lack of common courtesy that bugs me.

OTOH, today I was back in shorts - summer is on its way :-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 23 January, 2013, 12:06:32 pm
I don't understand it at all - where there's an advanced stop area with loads of space in it, what is the point of going a couple of metres further forward, and then stopping? It's not going to get you there any quicker. It's more understandable where the advanced stop is full of motorbikes, but it's rare to be totally full.

On the opposite tack, I've seen a surprising number of cyclists lately stopping at the *first* stop line instead of the advanced one. I'm not sure what they think the big picture of the cycle is for ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 23 January, 2013, 01:03:09 pm
Rode in this morning on ice-free roads - but not in the park.
As I approached the eastern badlands it started to snow a little, and has been trying to do so for most of the morning - just a few floaty flakes.
What's quite shocking though, is the drop in temperature since this morning's ride in.
Brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 23 January, 2013, 03:15:22 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 23 January, 2013, 11:11:30 am
Quote from: clarion on 23 January, 2013, 09:51:10 am

I am a bit fed up of stopping at a Stop Line, only to have six or seven slower cyclists stop beyond it.  I don't expect the waves to part for me.  I just expect road users to have a bit of sense and respect for the law. </whinge>

This pi--es me off more than anything else, especially when I have overtaken them some way back so they must know that I'm a bit quicker. I don't care too much about the fact they are breaking the law - more fool them - it's the lack of common courtesy that bugs me.

Congratulations somehow you've become a motorist.
Hang back for a second, let them sort themselves out then overtake. After all, this is what the cars have to do.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 23 January, 2013, 05:13:29 pm
Quote from: jane on 23 January, 2013, 09:13:50 am
...I went the back route today and met just one patch of ice and snow, just before and after the railway footbridge which is part of LCN 22.  Strangely, there was a completely clear way through the ice on the footbridge itself.  I just got off and walked the icy bits...

I was just going to write this. Most odd. I guess whomever did the deed took their orders to 'clear the bridge' most literally. I just wobbled over the ice-slush. Marathon Pluses, I recall every year about this time, have zero traction on snow, ice, and slush.

I am missing Florida weather.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 January, 2013, 07:43:16 pm
I bailed the commute.  I can't even remember the last time I did that, partly because I can't het on a train until two hours after I finish work.

And some arsehole kicked my tea over >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 23 January, 2013, 09:49:32 pm
Cycling gently at the moment to avoid breakage of repaired chain.


Apparently there has been some kerfuffle in Congleton this week, with a burst drain causing traffic chaos and delays of an hour+ to do about a mile.


I didn't notice.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 23 January, 2013, 10:42:27 pm
Wet roads on the way in. Out this evening as the snow began. Went down to the hospital to check on the room allocated for tomorrows workshop (the RANT thread is that way ->) and when I came out the snow was laying on the road, about half an inch. I went back through the cemetery (hint: it is Wednesday. Your bin with a Friday sticker on shouldn't be out and it shouldn't block the pedestrian side of the gate either) for a nice quiet snowy ride. LED lights have a beguiling stroboscopic effect on the snow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JJ on 24 January, 2013, 09:08:13 am
Mea Culpa.  I ran a red light this morning.  It was a pelican crossing immediately after a rising bollard, and all my focus was on the bollard.  No-one was crossing but even so, it quite spoiled my ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 24 January, 2013, 09:11:36 am
First commute in two weeks today - ironically not because of snow but working parts foreign.  Basel Airport was closed last Thursday for several hours due to less than 5cm of snow. It is not just us mamby pamby Brits that can't cope with the white stuff.

Stuck to main roads, all perfectly clear, just lots of traffic and rather painful vibration in the little pinky that I probably broke sledding last weekend.  All drivers courteous save one - guess what make of vehicle.

So much better than relying on First Great Western.  Their timetable would never win the Booker Prize for Fiction; fantasy titles never do.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Morrisette on 24 January, 2013, 09:16:02 am
Quote from: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 24 January, 2013, 09:11:36 am
So much better than relying on First Great Western.  Their timetable would never win the Booker Prize for Fiction; fantasy titles never do.

That made me laugh. It's funny cos its true.

Roads are OK now - the less said about the cycle paths the better. Think I saw Torville and Dean on the one next to Elizabeth Way bridge. On the other hand the driving seems to be improving - maybe there are more cyclists using the roads and the big roundabouts, maybe this is helping? Maybe everyone has had a four-day week this week because of snow and is in a good mood!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 24 January, 2013, 09:35:16 am
Rode through Battersea Park as usual this morning to see that the council have erected massive security fences and heavy gates around the adventure playground. I guess this is in preparation to tearing it down.

Spent the rest of the ride feeling pretty cross about it. I used to take my kids there from time to time. It was great.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 24 January, 2013, 09:51:36 am
It could be so that it can be refurbished/replaced :)

My ride in was slightly more eventful than normal. I managed to almost get taken out by a car parked on the pavement, then almost collect a binman coming down a steep hill and finally get cut up by a police 4x4 which was simultaneously trying to pass me, avoid the bus coming the other way, get his wheels round a speed cushion and line up for the security chicane we were just about to enter at the same time.

He was appologetic when I mentioned this to him as we both waited at the security gate immediately after though. :)

I know this is small beer for some of you but my commute is usually just me against the hills with very little car/pedestrian interaction of any note.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 24 January, 2013, 10:28:21 am
Quote from: alexb on 24 January, 2013, 09:35:16 am
Rode through Battersea Park as usual this morning to see that the council have erected massive security fences and heavy gates around the adventure playground. I guess this is in preparation to tearing it down.

Spent the rest of the ride feeling pretty cross about it. I used to take my kids there from time to time. It was great.

Wandsworth Council website he say:

Quote
Battersea Park and York Gardens

Battersea Park's adventure playground will undergo a £200,000 refurbishment while the one at York Gardens will also benefit from a major facelift and the installation of brand new equipment.
Kimber Road

Kimber Road will undergo a £170,000 transformation into a new skateboarding venue, which we think will be enormously popular with local children and teenagers.
About the refurbishment

All three playgrounds will fully reopen to the public in the spring and will offer local young people a greater variety and choice of new, exciting and fully modernised play facilities.
So it might be OK. However a quick skim of the interwebs suggests there has been shennigans, an occupation and an eviction, so perhaps not as straightforward as all that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 24 January, 2013, 10:40:39 am
Bit of a bad one this morning, at about 0630. In a filter/crosshatched area waiting for oncoming traffic to clear, and one car decides to overtake at very high speed through the space I occupy. I managed to throw myself and bike toleft, landing on my hip, and I hope he heard the shout of 'Banker!'
Missed by about two feet, at somewhere near 80 mph. I was told to sit down and have a cuppa when I got in. Absolutely shocked.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 24 January, 2013, 10:43:53 am
Quote from: clarion on 23 January, 2013, 07:43:16 pm
And some arsehole kicked my tea over >:(
That is bad.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 24 January, 2013, 10:58:38 am
Been following the Battersea adventure playground on twitter; I don't know the full story but it doesn't look good.

Couldn't cycle in yesterday for the first time this year as I had migraine so I took the bus. Cycling in felt strangely difficult today; methinks it was after-effects of migraine coupled with having the big Carradice bag on the front plus a not-very-strong-but-still-there headwind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 24 January, 2013, 11:26:31 am
My nephews and nieces used to frequent the Battersea Park adventure playground very often (being home schooled has advantages).  Wandsworth have always been a penny-pinching flagship Tory council, and intended to shut the playground on the basis that children from outside the borough had been using it ::-)

They were forced to alter the plans a bit after public outcry and protests, but they have a record of changing plans after having made promises.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 24 January, 2013, 11:56:59 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 24 January, 2013, 10:58:38 am
... plus a not-very-strong-but-still-there headwind.

Yes that was decidedly noticeable today, I think we've had virtually no wind with the minor snowpocalypse, so when it's returned, it seems like very hard work.

Most of the snow has disappeared from my commute, except a fifty foot stretch along the Tooting Bec Common cycle path, which steadfastly refuses to properly melt, but is somewhat lethally icy and slushy.  I may go back to my main road route to avoid that for a day or two more, since short though it was, there was no alternatively but to carefully scoot across it.  Even with studded tyres, my wheels were slipping from side to side.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 24 January, 2013, 12:16:11 pm
Quote from: Steph on 24 January, 2013, 10:40:39 am
Bit of a bad one this morning, at about 0630. In a filter/crosshatched area waiting for oncoming traffic to clear, and one car decides to overtake at very high speed through the space I occupy. I managed to throw myself and bike toleft, landing on my hip, and I hope he heard the shout of 'Banker!'
Missed by about two feet, at somewhere near 80 mph. I was told to sit down and have a cuppa when I got in. Absolutely shocked.

Glad you are still with us,

To clarify oncoming traffic chose to overtake through the space you were occupying whilst waiting to turn right.  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 24 January, 2013, 12:44:53 pm
After 2 solid weeks on the snow studs and the resulting 4kg weight loss coming in today on the road bike felt like flying  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 24 January, 2013, 01:14:49 pm
Is that weight loss off you? Or the bike?

 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 24 January, 2013, 02:23:11 pm
This would've been in the could've but I couldn't so did and it's here.

Meaning I was stood on the platform waiting for a train with several hundred other people. Time went by, trains were notably absent and the PA system made repeated 'bingly-bongs' presaging no more than the next plaintive 'bingly-bong'.

'Sod this!' I thought. 'I'm going home to get the bike.'

21 mile commute, plus the opportunity to pick up some hardware that a supplier failed to deliver yesterday meant I had my first opportunity to ride CS7. Is it supposed to be surfaced?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jimini on 24 January, 2013, 02:25:34 pm
Quote from: benborp on 24 January, 2013, 02:23:11 pm


21 mile commute, plus the opportunity to pick up some hardware that a supplier failed to deliver yesterday meant I had my first opportunity to ride CS7. Is it supposed to be surfaced?

It's a disgrace at the moment, particularly heading north from Clapham South up to where the A24 meets the A3. Dodge those potholes!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 24 January, 2013, 02:37:19 pm
Quote from: matthew on 24 January, 2013, 12:16:11 pm
Quote from: Steph on 24 January, 2013, 10:40:39 am
Bit of a bad one this morning, at about 0630. In a filter/crosshatched area waiting for oncoming traffic to clear, and one car decides to overtake at very high speed through the space I occupy. I managed to throw myself and bike toleft, landing on my hip, and I hope he heard the shout of 'Banker!'
Missed by about two feet, at somewhere near 80 mph. I was told to sit down and have a cuppa when I got in. Absolutely shocked.

Glad you are still with us,

To clarify oncoming traffic chose to overtake through the space you were occupying whilst waiting to turn right.  :o

Exactly. There was no following traffic. otherwise I would have ended up under their wheels.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 24 January, 2013, 02:43:41 pm
Quote from: jimini on 24 January, 2013, 02:25:34 pm
Quote from: benborp on 24 January, 2013, 02:23:11 pm


21 mile commute, plus the opportunity to pick up some hardware that a supplier failed to deliver yesterday meant I had my first opportunity to ride CS7. Is it supposed to be surfaced?

It's a disgrace at the moment, particularly heading north from Clapham South up to where the A24 meets the A3. Dodge those potholes!

TFL kindly keep it that way to help people like me get over their fear of off-roading, I believe. So thoughtful of them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 24 January, 2013, 05:14:37 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 24 January, 2013, 02:43:41 pm
Quote from: jimini on 24 January, 2013, 02:25:34 pm
Quote from: benborp on 24 January, 2013, 02:23:11 pm


21 mile commute, plus the opportunity to pick up some hardware that a supplier failed to deliver yesterday meant I had my first opportunity to ride CS7. Is it supposed to be surfaced?

It's a disgrace at the moment, particularly heading north from Clapham South up to where the A24 meets the A3. Dodge those potholes!

TFL kindly keep it that way to help people like me get over their fear of off-roading, I believe. So thoughtful of them.

Has it worked?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 24 January, 2013, 09:27:12 pm
Quote from: jimini on 24 January, 2013, 02:25:34 pm
Quote from: benborp on 24 January, 2013, 02:23:11 pm


21 mile commute, plus the opportunity to pick up some hardware that a supplier failed to deliver yesterday meant I had my first opportunity to ride CS7. Is it supposed to be surfaced?

It's a disgrace at the moment, particularly heading north from Clapham South up to where the A24 meets the A3. Dodge those potholes!

I confess that despite my peculiar love of London bike routes, those blue superhighways have eluded me (actually, I lie, I did once try to follow CS3 to Barking but got lost in a car park, which with hindsight, was a message). This is partly because I live in SE London and, as such, any transport initiative is only likely to reach us 20 and 50 years after the rest of London. It's almost like the powers that be have wrapped us in some kind of temporal barrier. It could be 2030 outside and the rest of London is zipping around in a super network of shiny Teflon-coated pneumo-tubes, popping out like flatulent weasels in exciting locations like Belsize Park and Morden. I suppose we do now have tube trains that aren't tube trains, but they're nice and orange, like someone crossed Dale Winton with a Ginger Nut and extruded it in a hollow train-like form. That, children, is proper science. Some people claim it goes nowhere useful, but it'll be mightily handy should Croydon ever decide to invade Hackney. Hackney, for the record, has better beer, so I'm not complaining about Dale's Gingery Non-Tube. The temporal barrier theory would explain the way people in Shoreditch dress.

For some reason that might not have extended beyond morbid fascination, I did however, take CS7 from Holborn all the way to Colliers Wood yesterday, sampling the delights of a 'superhighway'. The experience was a bit like riding across the dark side of the Moon, and that's not just because Tooting is the natural home of Earthside Clanger contingent (obviously). Sections of it seemed to have been strafed by high calibre weaponry. There were potholes so big that I was worried someone (probably the French) had used South Clapham as a nuclear test site. Fortunately, as the entire length seems to double as parking spaces, I did manage to miss much of it. I was pleased to see that they had put some effort into the junctions, recreating a high-octane version of Frogger for Generation Nintendo cyclists who had become bored of a cycling in a straight line. Certainly, no one would want to suffer a fatal attack of ennui outside Stockwell station.

I did, I confess, expect some kind of reward on emerging in Colliers Wood. Needless to say, I was disappointed. Given the absence of a ticker tape parade, any kind of onward connectivity would have been nice, rather than the strip of blue just deciding that it had had enough, it wasn't going any further (and I couldn't entirely blame it). Nope, not an inch. You're on your own, it effectively said, abandoned in a place that I'm not even sure requires an apostrophe or not. I'd have minded less, but I had no idea how to get home from Colliers Wood, and the sky was rubbing gravelly sleet into my eyes. In the end I was forced to cross miles of bleak, pebbledashed badlands, like some suburban Siberia, until I stranded up in Carshalton Beeches, where at least I could figure my way home from (because my evil cats came from there, and there's also a black hole under Sutton which will eventually pull you in, no matter how lost you are in south London).

In summary: blue in places, not super, and not a highway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 24 January, 2013, 09:36:27 pm
Hah!  You travelled CS7 South past Clapham Common, you lightweight.  Try Northbound - the potholes link up into something resembling a skatepark.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 24 January, 2013, 10:37:21 pm
Quote from: Steph on 24 January, 2013, 02:37:19 pm
Quote from: matthew on 24 January, 2013, 12:16:11 pm
Quote from: Steph on 24 January, 2013, 10:40:39 am
Bit of a bad one this morning, at about 0630. In a filter/crosshatched area waiting for oncoming traffic to clear, and one car decides to overtake at very high speed through the space I occupy. I managed to throw myself and bike toleft, landing on my hip, and I hope he heard the shout of 'Banker!'
Missed by about two feet, at somewhere near 80 mph. I was told to sit down and have a cuppa when I got in. Absolutely shocked.

Glad you are still with us,

To clarify oncoming traffic chose to overtake through the space you were occupying whilst waiting to turn right.  :o

Exactly. There was no following traffic. otherwise I would have ended up under their wheels.

Just S of the Motorway spur flyover?  Nasty bit of road that*, glad you're (relatively) unscathed.

* yes, I know the road isn't to blame, it's the knob behind the wheel.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 24 January, 2013, 10:37:38 pm
Quote from: ian on 24 January, 2013, 09:27:12 pm
Quote from: jimini on 24 January, 2013, 02:25:34 pm
Quote from: benborp on 24 January, 2013, 02:23:11 pm


21 mile commute, plus the opportunity to pick up some hardware that a supplier failed to deliver yesterday meant I had my first opportunity to ride CS7. Is it supposed to be surfaced?

It's a disgrace at the moment, particularly heading north from Clapham South up to where the A24 meets the A3. Dodge those potholes!

I confess that despite my peculiar love of London bike routes, those blue superhighways have eluded me (actually, I lie, I did once try to follow CS3 to Barking but got lost in a car park, which with hindsight, was a message). This is partly because I live in SE London and, as such, any transport initiative is only likely to reach us 20 and 50 years after the rest of London. It's almost like the powers that be have wrapped us in some kind of temporal barrier. It could be 2030 outside and the rest of London is zipping around in a super network of shiny Teflon-coated pneumo-tubes, popping out like flatulent weasels in exciting locations like Belsize Park and Morden. I suppose we do now have tube trains that aren't tube trains, but they're nice and orange, like someone crossed Dale Winton with a Ginger Nut and extruded it in a hollow train-like form. That, children, is proper science. Some people claim it goes nowhere useful, but it'll be mightily handy should Croydon ever decide to invade Hackney. Hackney, for the record, has better beer, so I'm not complaining about Dale's Gingery Non-Tube. The temporal barrier theory would explain the way people in Shoreditch dress.

For some reason that might not have extended beyond morbid fascination, I did however, take CS7 from Holborn all the way to Colliers Wood yesterday, sampling the delights of a 'superhighway'. The experience was a bit like riding across the dark side of the Moon, and that's not just because Tooting is the natural home of Earthside Clanger contingent (obviously). Sections of it seemed to have been strafed by high calibre weaponry. There were potholes so big that I was worried someone (probably the French) had used South Clapham as a nuclear test site. Fortunately, as the entire length seems to double as parking spaces, I did manage to miss much of it. I was pleased to see that they had put some effort into the junctions, recreating a high-octane version of Frogger for Generation Nintendo cyclists who had become bored of a cycling in a straight line. Certainly, no one would want to suffer a fatal attack of ennui outside Stockwell station.

I did, I confess, expect some kind of reward on emerging in Colliers Wood. Needless to say, I was disappointed. Given the absence of a ticker tape parade, any kind of onward connectivity would have been nice, rather than the strip of blue just deciding that it had had enough, it wasn't going any further (and I couldn't entirely blame it). Nope, not an inch. You're on your own, it effectively said, abandoned in a place that I'm not even sure requires an apostrophe or not. I'd have minded less, but I had no idea how to get home from Colliers Wood, and the sky was rubbing gravelly sleet into my eyes. In the end I was forced to cross miles of bleak, pebbledashed badlands, like some suburban Siberia, until I stranded up in Carshalton Beeches, where at least I could figure my way home from (because my evil cats came from there, and there's also a black hole under Sutton which will eventually pull you in, no matter how lost you are in south London).

In summary: blue in places, not super, and not a highway.

I know you (more than) dabble in Computerstuffs, ian and, I suspect, sell some too.
But if it ever goes t!ts-up in your nine to five, you should seriously consider a career in comedy script writing.
I am ROTFLMAO.
Srlsy  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 24 January, 2013, 10:54:01 pm
POTD stuff that.

Oi !!   Librarian!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 24 January, 2013, 11:00:08 pm
I encountered a poor soul this evening who clearly has a lot wrong with her. As I cycled past a stationary queue of traffic leading to the traffic lights at the Hampton water works, a cry was hurled forth from the open window of a car "GET ON THE FUCKING INSIDE !!!"

I really shouldn't have bothered, but I couldn't resist.

Me Why ?
PS  'Cos it's dangerous there.

But the whole tirade was in a highly aggressive manner. She wished me dead, continued to eff and blind, drove onto the vary narrow pavement to get past me to the stationary car 15' in front, pulled outside me (in primary, behind the stationary car in front) and  blocked the oncoming traffic, apparently to show me how dangerous it was to overtake on the outside, nudged me and the bike out of the way.

A real charmer. My first nuke grade psycho nutter for quite a few years. I'd almost forgotten they existed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 24 January, 2013, 11:24:29 pm
Jesus.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CJBrewer on 25 January, 2013, 08:54:48 am
Quote from: ian on 24 January, 2013, 09:27:12 pm

I confess that despite my peculiar love of London bike routes, those blue superhighways have eluded me (actually, I lie, I did once try to follow CS3 to Barking but got lost in a car park,

<SNIP>


Best post for a while :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimC on 25 January, 2013, 09:06:42 am
Quote from: Jurek on 24 January, 2013, 10:37:38 pm
Quote from: ian on 24 January, 2013, 09:27:12 pm
Quote from: jimini on 24 January, 2013, 02:25:34 pm
Quote from: benborp on 24 January, 2013, 02:23:11 pm


21 mile commute, plus the opportunity to pick up some hardware that a supplier failed to deliver yesterday meant I had my first opportunity to ride CS7. Is it supposed to be surfaced?

It's a disgrace at the moment, particularly heading north from Clapham South up to where the A24 meets the A3. Dodge those potholes!

I confess that despite my peculiar love of London bike routes, those blue superhighways have eluded me (actually, I lie, I did once try to follow CS3 to Barking but got lost in a car park, which with hindsight, was a message). [slash & hack]
In summary: blue in places, not super, and not a highway.

I know you (more than) dabble in Computerstuffs, ian and, I suspect, sell some too.
But if it ever goes t!ts-up in your nine to five, you should seriously consider a career in comedy script writing.
I am ROTFLMAO.
Srlsy  :D

Brilliant stuff, Ian. I'm not sure I understood much of it (I am from rural partz), but it made oi larf mightily!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 25 January, 2013, 09:28:39 am
Quote from: Andrij on 24 January, 2013, 05:14:37 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 24 January, 2013, 02:43:41 pm
Quote from: jimini on 24 January, 2013, 02:25:34 pm
Quote from: benborp on 24 January, 2013, 02:23:11 pm


21 mile commute, plus the opportunity to pick up some hardware that a supplier failed to deliver yesterday meant I had my first opportunity to ride CS7. Is it supposed to be surfaced?

It's a disgrace at the moment, particularly heading north from Clapham South up to where the A24 meets the A3. Dodge those potholes!

TFL kindly keep it that way to help people like me get over their fear of off-roading, I believe. So thoughtful of them.

Has it worked?

What do you think?

Excellent summary of CS7 from ian.

Hatler's psycho seems an interesting sort, alternately berating him for being somewhere that's 'not safe' and wishing him dead, too (as well as the rest of her behaviour).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 25 January, 2013, 09:51:06 am
I'm wondering now perhaps whether she was drunk. Given that she rolled her car into me I'm wondering whether I would have been justified in taking her keys out of the ignition.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CJBrewer on 25 January, 2013, 09:54:09 am
A short ride out from home in t'sticks, B*W driver overtook me leaving plenty of clearance, but directly into oncoming traffic.  :facepalm:
About 50 feet before a red traffic light  :facepalm:  ::-)
Knocked on his driver's window (the usual shocked face   :o) and asked him politely whether he thought that was a safe overtaking manoeuvre. Sadly, light turned green and I let him go before I could explain... Hopefully he'll think a bit about that (but I'm not holding my breath)

Made up for that in Borough when a driver was turning out of Borough High St onto Southwark St into my path (somewhere people often don't give way).  Eye contact and a nod from me and he was able to merge into the traffic without impeding my progress.  ;D He gave me an indicator-wink and he got a :thumbsup:

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 25 January, 2013, 10:30:28 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 25 January, 2013, 09:28:39 am
Quote from: Andrij on 24 January, 2013, 05:14:37 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 24 January, 2013, 02:43:41 pm
Quote from: jimini on 24 January, 2013, 02:25:34 pm
Quote from: benborp on 24 January, 2013, 02:23:11 pm


21 mile commute, plus the opportunity to pick up some hardware that a supplier failed to deliver yesterday meant I had my first opportunity to ride CS7. Is it supposed to be surfaced?

It's a disgrace at the moment, particularly heading north from Clapham South up to where the A24 meets the A3. Dodge those potholes!

TFL kindly keep it that way to help people like me get over their fear of off-roading, I believe. So thoughtful of them.

Has it worked?

What do you think?


Hurrah!  :thumbsup:

First will do a ride along the Lea, then I'll introduce you to the joys Epping Forest.  Once the ground dries up a bit, of course.

 :-*


As for me, it's a full house this week.  Sadly, a complete week of not cycling.  :'(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 25 January, 2013, 10:42:19 am
Quote from: Andrij on 25 January, 2013, 10:30:28 am
Hurrah!  :thumbsup:

First will do a ride along the Lea, then I'll introduce you to the joys Epping Forest.  Once the ground dries up a bit, of course.

 :-*


 ::-)

Look, I know it’s Friday and all, but you’re not supposed to start drinking this early…!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 25 January, 2013, 11:35:37 am
Legs were going better today.  Needed yesterday's ride to get the snow-induced lethargy out of them.  Really nice dawn with pearly light on the snow.  First time Tadley has ever looked pretty to my eyes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 25 January, 2013, 11:46:10 am
Begone snow! Out on fixer! Blimey, the handlebars feel narrow.  Going well, with brief breather to hand over jar of goose fat to a friend, like you do, roast spud cooking for the use of. Her daughter thought it was a jar of snot. Bless.

Still chuckling at this when some idiot executed a Parallel Turn of Wank, so I didn't let it spoil my day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Datameister on 25 January, 2013, 01:56:31 pm
Quote from: ian on 24 January, 2013, 09:27:12 pm
I was pleased to see that they had put some effort into the junctions, recreating a high-octane version of Frogger for Generation Nintendo cyclists who had become bored of a cycling in a straight line.

Pure, bladder-weakening genius  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 25 January, 2013, 02:48:08 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 24 January, 2013, 10:37:21 pm
Quote from: Steph on 24 January, 2013, 02:37:19 pm
Quote from: matthew on 24 January, 2013, 12:16:11 pm
Quote from: Steph on 24 January, 2013, 10:40:39 am
Bit of a bad one this morning, at about 0630. In a filter/crosshatched area waiting for oncoming traffic to clear, and one car decides to overtake at very high speed through the space I occupy. I managed to throw myself and bike toleft, landing on my hip, and I hope he heard the shout of 'Banker!'
Missed by about two feet, at somewhere near 80 mph. I was told to sit down and have a cuppa when I got in. Absolutely shocked.

Glad you are still with us,

To clarify oncoming traffic chose to overtake through the space you were occupying whilst waiting to turn right.  :o

Exactly. There was no following traffic. otherwise I would have ended up under their wheels.

Just S of the Motorway spur flyover?  Nasty bit of road that*, glad you're (relatively) unscathed.

* yes, I know the road isn't to blame, it's the knob behind the wheel.

That's the spot. Sore right knee today, noticed it when I rode home last night. Must have twisted it slightly coming off the bike. Nice marks on outside of left leg of semi-longs... bike OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 25 January, 2013, 03:22:39 pm
Quote from: hatler on 24 January, 2013, 11:00:08 pm
I encountered a poor soul this evening who clearly has a lot wrong with her. As I cycled past a stationary queue of traffic leading to the traffic lights at the Hampton water works, a cry was hurled forth from the open window of a car "GET ON THE FUCKING INSIDE !!!"

I really shouldn't have bothered, but I couldn't resist.

Me Why ?
PS  'Cos it's dangerous there.

But the whole tirade was in a highly aggressive manner. She wished me dead, continued to eff and blind, drove onto the vary narrow pavement to get past me to the stationary car 15' in front, pulled outside me (in primary, behind the stationary car in front) and  blocked the oncoming traffic, apparently to show me how dangerous it was to overtake on the outside, nudged me and the bike out of the way.

A real charmer. My first nuke grade psycho nutter for quite a few years. I'd almost forgotten they existed.

Assuming you didn't insert an icepick into her nostril, it would be good to let the police know her reg.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 25 January, 2013, 03:32:07 pm
I did try remembering it, and thought I had, but when I came to check it out on an insurance website (to confirm I had the right plate/vehicle combo) the plate was not known. It was a rather inconspicuous middle sized people mover thingy, possibly a Vauxhall Zafira or the like.

LB10 ZPA or ZBA.

Anyhow, zen won over and I'm not too fussed.  though, on balance, if I had remembered it it would have been a Roadsafe incident that's for sure.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 25 January, 2013, 03:42:41 pm
Last night...

Turning right at Kings Cross from Euston Rd into Pancras Rd... OK, I admit the light had just turned amber when I crossed the line, but FFS! By the time I was going through the pedestrian crossing at the end of Pancras Rd a second or two later, the light was already green for the peds. And because quite a few of them had already started crossing even before they had the green light, I had to do a bit of nifty weaving. I was in no danger of colliding with anyone, but one bloke still felt the need to yell "Prick!" at me.

Ho hum. Suppose I kind of deserved it.

Then, cycling home from the station at the other end of my journey, a driver tooted at me while overtaking, seemingly for no reason. I normally don't respond to such behaviour but I was in a bad mood so forcefully expressed my opinion of his ancestry. I don't think he heard me though.

Anyway, it was only when I got home that I realised the probable reason for his honking was that my rear light had died.  :facepalm:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 25 January, 2013, 03:57:31 pm
Quote from: hatler on 25 January, 2013, 03:32:07 pm
zen

I need more of that.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 25 January, 2013, 04:06:13 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 25 January, 2013, 10:30:28 am
As for me, it's a full house this week.  Sadly, a complete week of not cycling.  :'(

I've managed the flip side, after an early cycle free start to the year, I've just managed my second full week of commuting.

Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 25 January, 2013, 10:42:19 am
Look, I know it’s Friday and all, but you’re not supposed to start drinking this early…!

Damn, I was wondering when we'd be doing the NSTN inaugural mudathon. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 25 January, 2013, 05:09:33 pm
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 25 January, 2013, 03:57:31 pm
Quote from: hatler on 25 January, 2013, 03:32:07 pm
zen

I need more of that.

From ice pick to zen requirement.
In four posts.

EDIT: An observation, not a criticism  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 26 January, 2013, 12:20:59 am
Deeply, deeply unpleasant day on the bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 26 January, 2013, 12:26:51 am
Quote from: Jurek on 25 January, 2013, 05:09:33 pm
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 25 January, 2013, 03:57:31 pm
Quote from: hatler on 25 January, 2013, 03:32:07 pm
zen

I need more of that.

From ice pick to zen requirement.
In four posts.

EDIT: An observation, not a criticism  ;)

Noted.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 26 January, 2013, 03:42:18 pm
Sorry, I can't let it go.

There's been the minor irritating stuff - such as the recent trend for motorists to skim by inches from my elbow as they jump the lights that I'm stopped at. It's happening a couple of times every ride - that's just unpleasant.

Yesterday though, there was the figure in the road. Lying as he had fallen, a considerable distance from the crossing. No passers-by gawping, no other vehicles stopped, just the response car in the middle of the carriageway and the paramedic establishing an airway. Normally the area is thronged, it had obviously just happened and the victim looked suddenly, horribly alone.

Late at night on the way home: madness. Three successive vehicles.
I can remember looking at the nearside wheel as I bailed left - it was chattering with the ABS. The driver had beaten me to the pinch point but couldn't do anything other than brake to a stop to avoid the parked car on the left. I was wedged between him and the kerb. I got a foot down but had to steady myself with a hand against the passenger window. Within a split second that was revealed as 'The Wrong Thing To Do'. The next couple of minutes were a mixture of unpleasant threats, getting out of his grasp, staying upright despite kicks to the rear wheel, bailing to the pavement in populated, lit areas, slack jawed indifference to a cyclist being dragged off their bike, getting away again and eventually making it to Newington Green. At last I was off the road and I had my bike and a good Samaritan between me and him. The Police arrived just as he started to get kicky again. I was sent on my way and told to get some distance between us while they had a chat.

I managed to get to the far side of Newington Green. I pulled up behind a bus that was waiting for on-coming traffic to clear before making it's way along the narrow channel between the parked cars. Then I was gently hit from behind. A woman in a small dark car had driven up against my rear wheel. I didn't react other than to move forward and to the left.  She pulled up again a hair's breadth from my wheel. There was nowhere for me to go. Bus in front, tightly parked cars on the left, the car on my rear wheel. The only gap I could physically fit through was blind into on-coming traffic. I turned to the woman and simply said 'Please!' and clasped my hands together. As the bus moved off I was again looking for the first gap into which I could bail as the car revved and lurched behind me. It was the bus stop. I pulled in behind the bus and as the car passed one of the four passengers took the opportunity to call me a cunt and throw something.

Seeking a relatively safe place to be I sheltered behind the bus as it rolled along the Essex Road. A taxi that was passing in the outside lane though, took the opportunity to brake, move in to the bus lane behind the bus, push me into the gutter, move back into the outside lane and then continue to overtake the bus. No drama, but by this point depressing that someone would go out of their way, and slow themselves down just to be unpleasant.

I stopped for ten minutes to pull myself together and to investigate the problem that was developing with my left pedal. I was close to throwing the bike in a nearby skip, but the fact that twelve miles with a snapped cleat is preferable to the last train on the overground on a Friday night saved it.

I'm a bit paralysed today.

Edit: A weird detail that sticks is that the first driver wanted me pay for his shoes that he had damaged by kicking me.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 26 January, 2013, 03:51:40 pm
 Gobsmackingly unpleasant experience.  I hope you are  recovering somewhere peaceful and safe.  And glad you arrived home without serious physical damage. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 26 January, 2013, 05:02:20 pm
Sounds grim benborp, very grim.

Ignore "get back on the horse" thing; a day like that would warrant a day or two off the bike. Hope the stress levels reduce asap.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 26 January, 2013, 05:12:37 pm
That sounds §h!te, Ben.
Sorry to hear it.  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 26 January, 2013, 07:03:16 pm
Sheesh. That's horrific. You got any holiday coming up ?  Sounds like you could do with some time off the bike. (Though why on earth you should have to change what you do ..   rant rant rant.) Bloody hell.

Is it any wonder that cyclists take to thumping wing mirrors. When threatened like this fight or flight overrides sense and sensibility.

Are you up to Roadsafeing these ?  Or putting them into the CTC SMIDSY thing ?

I hope that's your bunch of psycho nutters all done with for 2013.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 26 January, 2013, 07:47:12 pm
Seriously Ben how you coped without battering the first drivers head in with a D Lock i'll never know, so despite feeling crap about it, you did OK.

Not that not battering an errant drivers head in would make any difference but it would make me feel a lot better some days, and might make a point.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 26 January, 2013, 08:41:53 pm
Jesus Benborp!  Didn't the rozzers do anything  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 26 January, 2013, 10:59:12 pm
That sounds awful Benborp. It beggars belief that people can be so shit.

Fwiw I agree with hatler and pluck, a couple days off if you want them could well be justified.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 27 January, 2013, 04:10:26 am
Thanks all,

Fortunately the next few days involve me carrying too much stuff to travel by bike, kind of sad, but I am looking forward to not having to cycle. I don't know how I'll get from Tottenham to Archway in fifteen minutes on Tuesday night though.
There's no question of me pursuing any of this through RoadSafe, I didn't really have the opportunity to clock any of the number plates. Is the CTC SMIDSY site worth it for simply logging experiences?
I don't carry a 'D' lock but I have to admit to being at the stage of sizing up where the other guy was most vulnerable.
As to the Police, they did exactly what I needed. They had little to go on other than two people were having an argument and diffused the situation. I was allowed to carry on on my way while the driver was subject to further scrutiny.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 28 January, 2013, 08:41:06 am
Beautiful early morning- dark, clear sky, enormous, glowing moon, so I thought I would ride my extended route today.  Then realised I had two flat tyres! Just as I was about to wheel the bike out of the door. 
So pumped up the tyres on my daughters bike and used that instead.  The moon was just magic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 28 January, 2013, 11:36:39 am
'Twas like a spring day out there this morning. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 28 January, 2013, 11:40:57 am
It was beautiful and yet I struggled for some reason, feeling really knackered. I think I just need to go to bed much earlier. Especially seeing as my piddling little commute will be tripling in a few weeks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 28 January, 2013, 06:32:14 pm
As noted here http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=67924.0 (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=67924.0) - it is horrible out there.  Really horrible.

I hadn't looked at the forecast and was only popping over to Knightsbridge - so was in civvies.  Bad move!

Soaked.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tom_e on 28 January, 2013, 07:28:41 pm
Yukky yuk.
Happened to be picking up two of the kids in the trailer on the way home and I nearly came to a stop heading into the wind at one point. Lot of windage, that double trailer.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 28 January, 2013, 09:24:27 pm
Mahoosive tailwind on the way home tonight  :)

It'll be a bugger in the morning though  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 28 January, 2013, 09:28:43 pm
Fresh legs (not cycled for 1.5wks) do not mean fast legs, but it was good to be back on the bike.

I was definitely overdressed for the commute this evening.  Perhaps I should have dispensed with the white tie and tails overshoes, glove liners and balaclava.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 28 January, 2013, 09:45:18 pm
WTF happened to my 'spring like' day?

Got wet this evening - but it's obv. not cold as I managed to get home, ditch the uniform from the bag (work shirt, before any of you lot start thinking of apparel with epaulettes / and or  / 'Happy to help' badges) pick up a lock and went to the stupormarket in the Definitely Not Dry Lycra. And lived.

Hopefully the wind direction will not have changed overnight.
That way I'll be blown.
To work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 28 January, 2013, 09:47:33 pm
A curate's egg of a commute home.

I left quite late (after five!) and wandered out to the bike sheds to see that I hadn't actually locked my bike  :facepalm: At least it was still there. Thank dog for a closed site and an unassuming bike.

Off onto the cut through to Yarm Road. The mild temperatures and rain had washed away all the ice. I passed a car which was indicating to pull out, and they sat behind me at a very reassuring distance until it was safe to pass. I gave them a wave of thanks. I did catch them up at the traffic lights, mind.

Annoyingly, the kissing gate in Eastbourne Park has been repaired. I used to be able to ride carefully through the narrow gap, but tonight I had to hobby-horse my bike past the wheel trap. I don't think I'll bother using that route again.

The lights at the narrow bridge under the ECML turned red as I approached, then - hurrah! - turned green again. Rather than going through South Park, I nipped along Park Lane (not quite as grand as the London one) and down Vicky Road, where a kind driver flashed me, letting me turn off the road and onto the cycle path across the town centre bypass and into the town.

I mistimed the lights at the top of Bondgate, but again a driver let me through onto Greenbank Road and the home stretch, where I even picked up a tailwind. Greenbank Road is a fairly wide residential street, with cars parked at either side. It really was a shame that the Audi driver decided to pull out into me, despite my taking the lane and there being a car coming in the opposite direction. My superb reactions saved us both from a head-on collision. Why is it always an Audi? I vented my annoyance at the driver and rode the last few hundred yards home. Phew!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 29 January, 2013, 06:08:41 am
I got buzzed by an Audi too, yesterday, as I struggled up Peckham Rye through blasts of wind and rain.  As you cross quite a wide junction, the road up the side of the Rye is pretty narrow and busy. Sometimes, it's hard to maintain primary consistently as you leave the wide junction and head onto the narrower road.  I had left a touch too much space, obviously, (although, nobody else tried to get through after him) and he had accelerated away from the lights pretty fast.  The wind was blasting across the open Rye here,  so I was struggling to maintain a straight line in the unpredictable, powerful crosswinds.  It was not pleasant.  I came close to being Audi-squidged.  Following cars waited till there was no oncoming traffic to pass.  I gave them a friendly wave.  I used to give a thumbs up when passed considerately.  However, on one occasion, I became embroiled in an unpleasant argument at traffic lights, having caught up the driver I had thanked just a few seconds earlier.  He thought I had given him the finger.  He was both puzzled and annoyed and not totally convinced by my explanation.  So, now I employ a royal style wave, to avoid further confusions.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 29 January, 2013, 06:55:29 am
Quote from: jane on 29 January, 2013, 06:08:41 am
He was both puzzled and annoyed and not totally convinced by my explanation.  So, now I employ a royal style wave, to avoid further confusions.

They'll probably just think you're calling them a wanker.  ::-)

Saying that I've had someone I waved at jump out of their van mid road and run at me swinging their fists so who knows how people will react.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 29 January, 2013, 08:18:03 am
Quote from: Ashaman42 on 29 January, 2013, 06:55:29 am
Quote from: jane on 29 January, 2013, 06:08:41 am
He was both puzzled and annoyed and not totally convinced by my explanation.  So, now I employ a royal style wave, to avoid further confusions.

They'll probably just think you're calling them a wanker.  ::-)

Saying that I've had someone I waved at jump out of their van mid road and run at me swinging their fists so who knows how people will react.
I hadn't thought of that! 
As my commute is so early, I rarely conflict with anyone else out there on the roads,  in the morning at least.  Quiet and plenty of space for all.  However, today was a bit of an exception.  Cheltenham Rd first (narrow residential road) and then Peckham Rye again, which considering it is part of LCN 22,(an otherwise peach of a cycle route into town, from a calm and quiet pont of view)  is not the safest of roads for cyclists- narrow, peppered with pinch points all the way along it (maybe ten pedestrian refuges- I'll count tonight) and parked cars at one end.  So I'm proceeding between two rows of parked cars on Cheltenham Rd and hear a car, screech round the bend, then accelerating, behind me.  There's an electronic speed check indicator here, so I look up.  it's registering 45mph (which I realise is not me, but the car fast approaching).  No room to pass, surely, he'll slow down.  Actually no, so I surrender primary in the last seconds and hunker into the parked cars.  Oh well, stuff happens.  Then as I descend the Rye, I hear two cars approaching very fast again, no sight or sound of deceleration.  I make a last minute decision to surrender primary at the pinch point, as my usual approach of no driver will actually deliberately run you over doesn't seem to be appropriate here and they come squealing through past me.  I have a feeling they were racing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 29 January, 2013, 08:31:02 am
I think I earned my breakfast* today — 22km at 24.6kph avg.  I really must get back into the habit of leaving early as the nearly empty roads are so much more pleasant.

* egg & bacon on toasty granary with brown sauce
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimC on 29 January, 2013, 08:44:14 am
Quote from: Jurek on 28 January, 2013, 11:36:39 am
'Twas like a spring day out there this morning. :thumbsup:

It wasn't in darkest Suffolk - lots of black ice! Mrs C came a cropper while turning right at the bottom of a hill (fortunately no traffic around), and copped a couple of bruises though no damage to clothing or bike. Very shocked though. A (planned) day off the bike today for her.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 29 January, 2013, 08:48:58 am
All throughout the icy conditions have had no near misses from careless drivers.  Today two.  Small car overtakes and immediately turns left.  *&^% in a Mercedes Sports car overtakes me when I'm following another car down Western Elms Avenue forcing me to brake hard.  Must be the rain.  So I overtook him back in a fit of pique.  All was then well with the world, especially as he turned off the other way down Oxford Rd.  Almost made me forget the wonderful tailwind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: FatBloke on 29 January, 2013, 09:04:32 am
On my commute this morning I was accompanied by the gentle tinkle of disintegrating front wheel bearings.   :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 29 January, 2013, 09:07:42 am
Oh well it had to happen.  As the Contour Roam is somewhat less discreet than the old Veho Muvi I was wondering when it would attract unsolicited and ignorant comment.

Navigating the lovely Morden Town centre one way nightmare this morning, in primary for survival, when Mr Merc sounds his horn.  He catches up with me at the lights and goes over the stop line in order to pull alongside " just because you have a camera doesn't mean you can ride in the middle of the road".

I put him straight on a few things. I did ask him how many miles he cycled, whilst trying to point lights & camera at his huge belly. Hoping video comes out OK for Youtube fun!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimC on 29 January, 2013, 09:08:07 am
Quote from: FatBloke on 29 January, 2013, 09:04:32 am
On my commute this morning I was accompanied by the gentle tinkle of disintegrating front wheel bearings.   :(

Diet not going well, Fatters? ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 29 January, 2013, 09:22:10 am
Peckham Rye is always a battle of wills. A long straight road punctuated by pinch points (really, just who thought they were a good idea). Even though I take primary through the pinch points there's a subset of drivers who think that they can squeeze through the next pinch point ahead of me. Well, perhaps they don't, but they just have to try anyway. Must. Overtake. Cyclist. Usually, I just have to brake and let them through. I note that the majority of times this happens on the way downhill, I meet them again waiting at the lights. I like to think that they see the irony in this, but I suspect that's like expecting an amoeba to understand string theory. Drivers are usually better behaved on the uphill, probably because I wobble more. It's one of those places where there is always a headwind.

Lawrie Park Road near me encourages similar behaviour, though there's fewer pinch points. The Air Ambulance seems to get a lot of landing practice thereabouts (mostly cars and bikers investigating the grimer corollaries of Newton's laws of motion). In fact, I came home the other day to see a remains of a car embedded in the front of a bus on the main road by my house. Really, that's the fight you're not going to win (despite it being main road, there's a section with residential parking for some flats, so if there's a bus coming there's rarely room to get by, but as it's another straight road drivers think they have some kind of afterburner; needless to say it's another blackspot, at least two fatalities in the time I've lived here).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 29 January, 2013, 09:50:51 am
Quote from: fungus on 28 January, 2013, 09:24:27 pm
Mahoosive tailwind on the way home tonight  :)

It'll be a bugger in the morning though  :demon:

Other way round for me - mahoosive headwind on the way home last night (and rain) but glorious tailwind this morning.

The only downside was just as I was about to start crossing the road BECAUSE THE LIGHTS HAD CHANGED a fucking motorist decided my life was less important than him saving a couple of seconds on his journey.  >:(

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 29 January, 2013, 09:52:22 am
I had to hunker down on the Brommie yesterday, there was a horrible headwind.

Also on the usual narrow bit of road with a narrow segregated contraflow going the other way (where drivers sometimes get very impatient because there’s not really enough room to overtake unless you ride in the gutter) it was me and two other cyclists. There was a car behind us but it didn’t go screaming past us at the lights and hung back most considerately. Nevertheless one of the cyclists veered into the segregated lane (on the other side of the road ie going the wrong way) to let the car get past (except it didn’t, because I was riding to stop any squeezing past, and it hung back a decent distance anyway).

I understand it might have been a newbie cyclist who was intimidated, but doing that is counterproductive. For one thing if they’d met a cyclist going the other way that would have been interesting, for another it gives drivers the wrong message)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 29 January, 2013, 10:11:10 am
Last night was the first ride in a few days, so in the absence of ice and being too lazy to swap out the studded tyres I just maxed out the pressure. Wow! It's amazing what a few days rest and a suddenly responsive bike can do for your speed! It's just a shame that the constant buffeting sidewind was blowing me around so much, but otherwise it was so much fun to be back in the saddle!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 29 January, 2013, 10:45:02 am
Quote from: FatBloke on 29 January, 2013, 09:04:32 am
On my commute this morning I was accompanied by the gentle tinkle of disintegrating front wheel bearings.   :(

I have some sympathy.  Rear mech is on its last legs, hopefully Action Bikes will be able to breathe enough life into it to get me home as otherwise it will be all the way back into headwind in the big ring  :'(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CJBrewer on 29 January, 2013, 11:32:29 am
Quote from: alexb on 29 January, 2013, 10:11:10 am
Last night was the first ride in a few days, so in the absence of ice and being too lazy to swap out the studded tyres I just maxed out the pressure. Wow! It's amazing what a few days rest and a suddenly responsive bike can do for your speed! It's just a shame that the constant buffeting sidewind was blowing me around so much, but otherwise it was so much fun to be back in the saddle!

I've not been out of the saddle, but having put the MWs back up to about 70psi instead of a squishy 35, the folder feels SO fast and nippy :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 29 January, 2013, 12:24:18 pm
Quote from: ian on 29 January, 2013, 09:22:10 am
Peckham Rye is always a battle of wills. A long straight road punctuated by pinch points (really, just who thought they were a good idea). Even though I take primary through the pinch points there's a subset of drivers who think that they can squeeze through the next pinch point ahead of me. Well, perhaps they don't, but they just have to try anyway. Must. Overtake. Cyclist. Usually, I just have to brake and let them through. I note that the majority of times this happens on the way downhill, I meet them again waiting at the lights. I like to think that they see the irony in this, but I suspect that's like expecting an amoeba to understand string theory. Drivers are usually better behaved on the uphill, probably because I wobble more. It's one of those places where there is always a headwind.

Lawrie Park Road near me encourages similar behaviour, though there's fewer pinch points. The Air Ambulance seems to get a lot of landing practice thereabouts (mostly cars and bikers investigating the grimer corollaries of Newton's laws of motion). In fact, I came home the other day to see a remains of a car embedded in the front of a bus on the main road by my house. Really, that's the fight you're not going to win (despite it being main road, there's a section with residential parking for some flats, so if there's a bus coming there's rarely room to get by, but as it's another straight road drivers think they have some kind of afterburner; needless to say it's another blackspot, at least two fatalities in the time I've lived here).
We have had lots of arguments with Southwark about the road alongside Peckham Rye east side.  It really spoils LCN 22, which is a pretty good example of how to put together a decent safe, quiet route through London.  The pinch points are a nightmare, although, if you live in the flats opposite the Rye, they are absolutely necessary to get across the road, especially with buggies, elderly neighbours, small children etc . Believe me, I know this from experience.  So, even though with my cyclist hat on, I hate them, I appreciate they are needed. 
We have suggested a cycle path down the Rye, which could use the lights at the bottom to reintegrate cycle traffic into the main traffic flow again.  Unfortunately, there is apparently quite powerful opposition to tampering in any way with the Rye.  Personally, I can't see how a cycle path would cause any problem,  aesthetic or otherwise, especially compared to the car carrying road which slices the Rye in half anyway.  To me it seems the perfect solution and would enable many young people to use this route to cycle to school (two large secondary schools on two sides of the Rye, whose pupils swamp local bus stops and buses at hometime.  So much better to have their energies used up cycling to and from school, than getting bored and mildly disruptive at the bus stops.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 29 January, 2013, 01:52:43 pm
Must confess I have to agree with Jane about pinch points.
As a cyclist their use needs to be stage managed, even though to do so may require formidable resolve.
As a pedestrian they're often a life saver.
Not far from me on Perry Vale there's a very busy crossing point opposite some shops and, crucially, an off licence where, at 17:30 or thereabouts, the traffic is relentless, and probably concentrating on how it's about to engage to win supremacy of the mini roundabout 50 metres away.
You could be stood there waiting for five minutes or more while the cars flow past unabated.
They've since installed pavement build-outs on both sides of the road, which slows the traffic effectively - presumably electrically heated door mirrors are quite spendy to replace - making the sprint across the road to the offy, considerably shorter and safer.
On reflection, as a cyclist, I think I prefer the built out pavement over the traffic island in the middle of the road, as a traffic calming measure.
At least with the build out, you can sometimes have the opposing traffic working in your favour.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 29 January, 2013, 02:02:18 pm
Yeah, but it's the world's worst offie now, isn't it?  And I'm not so sure about the chips at Sabah either.  Mind you, the dry cleaner's a nice chap.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 29 January, 2013, 02:07:49 pm
Quote from: PaulR on 29 January, 2013, 02:02:18 pm
Yeah, but it's the world's worst offie now, isn't it?  And I'm not so sure about the chips at Sabah either.  Mind you, the dry cleaner's a nice chap.

Yep, I curtailed my cross-road sprints when the shop became a mini-market and stopped stocking Sauvignon Blanc.
A crime for which there should've been nothing short of a custodial sentence. I've not had the Sabah (ranks) chip, but the cafe over the road is pretty good - if only they did eggs benedict....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 29 January, 2013, 02:57:25 pm
By way of clarification, neither Jurek nor I have, as our (sole) daily commute, the walk to the local off-licence.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 29 January, 2013, 07:29:45 pm
Quote from: jane on 29 January, 2013, 12:24:18 pm
...
We have had lots of arguments with Southwark about the road alongside Peckham Rye east side.  It really spoils LCN 22, which is a pretty good example of how to put together a decent safe, quiet route through London.  The pinch points are a nightmare, although, if you live in the flats opposite the Rye, they are absolutely necessary to get across the road, especially with buggies, elderly neighbours, small children etc . Believe me, I know this from experience.  So, even though with my cyclist hat on, I hate them, I appreciate they are needed. 
We have suggested a cycle path down the Rye, which could use the lights at the bottom to reintegrate cycle traffic into the main traffic flow again.  Unfortunately, there is apparently quite powerful opposition to tampering in any way with the Rye.  Personally, I can't see how a cycle path would cause any problem,  aesthetic or otherwise, especially compared to the car carrying road which slices the Rye in half anyway.  To me it seems the perfect solution and would enable many young people to use this route to cycle to school (two large secondary schools on two sides of the Rye, whose pupils swamp local bus stops and buses at hometime.  So much better to have their energies used up cycling to and from school, than getting bored and mildly disruptive at the bus stops.

Considering Peckham Rye is effectively a field, rather than a landscaped park, I'm not sure a cycle path down the side would abrade its aesthetic properties. I quite like LCN 22, which I usually join by the snowless pedestrian bridge of mystery in the deepest, darkest back corner of Brockley. I've always been of the opinion that some sensible route planning and minimal infrastructure would far surpass slapping spending millions slapping gallons of blue paint down. Admittedly less fun and you can't call it exciting things like 'superhighway'. I may have mentioned that I was very impressed with CS7. I had heard of the yellow brick road to Emerald City, but never the scabrous blue road to Tooting.

Whereas I do see the point of traffic islands, I think they fix one problem by throwing several others at it. Of course, in a perfect world, drivers would exercise a little courtesy and commonsense and hang back for a second or two, and then it would be a non-issue. Is that cold, hollow laughter I hear? If crossings are needed, crossing should be provided. I'm all for bringing back zebra crossings, which are becoming something of a rarity. Refreshing drivers that pedestrians have priority over them wouldn't be a bad thing. We're all ultimately pedestrians (apart from people without legs and Chorlton's Wheelies).

Build outs are a better of two bad options, though they do tend to encourage the game of chicken unless they're suitably wide.

I dunno, I have a wild and wacky theory that we should police our roads. I know, I know, calm down there with those outrageous beliefs. It's crazy, I know, but I'm not on drugs. There was a shooting incident up the road from me last year (of which the only casualty was a front door) which I believe attracted the entire Metropolitan Police force. When an old lady got run over a few weeks later, she got one squad car and an ambulance. There was some concern over the brief road closure.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 29 January, 2013, 08:32:51 pm
That was a bit breezy tonight on the way home..
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 29 January, 2013, 08:39:48 pm
Once again, ian, you've put things so succinctly...
However, it seems you've never ventured inwardly from the periphery of the Rye to discover the delights of a beautifully landscaped park, with oriental garden, ornamental bridge and decorative waterway in the centre of what you describe as a field  :P.
Having said that - I'd not lose a vast amount (any) of sleep were a 3 to 4 metre tract of the east side of the park to be 'sacrificed' (Oh! The sacrifice!  ::-)) to make a shared use / cycle path.
Others may disagree.
I use the route regularly to get into town and the amount of abuse / close passes I've experienced along there don't enhance my day.
To the point where going Crofton Park, Brockley and OK Rd seem to be my preferred choice.

Oh, and in answer to DM - Blowy as f*** man! And it's not my last day! ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 29 January, 2013, 08:47:02 pm
Ian, we share part of a commute route and hold similar views of the possibilities for organising traffic flow in the capital including an affection for zebra crossings.  I was reading  Dick King Smith's The Hodgeheg, a novel which assumes knowledge of these cultural icons, with  a group of 6 seven year olds in the lunch break today and four of them did not know what one was at all.  The others had to be reminded, by a rather poor drawing of mine.
     
   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 29 January, 2013, 08:51:54 pm
Maybe, one day in the summer, those of us who commute up Peckham Rye should have a flashcoffeeandcake at the posh new cafe next to the old prisoner of war camp (aka the one o'clock club) on the Rye. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 29 January, 2013, 09:19:40 pm
Quote from: jane on 29 January, 2013, 08:51:54 pm
Maybe, one day in the summer, those of us who commute up Peckham Rye should have a flashcoffeeandcake at the posh new cafe next to the old prisoner of war camp (aka the one o'clock club) on the Rye.
That's an old POW camp?  :o
I understood it that it was a stones throw from where Boudicca met her maker at the hands of The Romans....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 29 January, 2013, 11:57:07 pm
There was a moderate amount of wind on the way home tonight, but it was quite variable, sometimes seemingly a tailwind, sometimes from the side, and all too often a headwind.  It didn't seem too bad at the time, but earlier on, I got up, and found my legs were impressively stiff, so they must have been working harder than I thought!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 30 January, 2013, 07:55:51 am
Quote from: jane on 29 January, 2013, 08:51:54 pm
Maybe, one day in the summer, those of us who commute up Peckham Rye should have a flashcoffeeandcake at the posh new cafe next to the old prisoner of war camp (aka the one o'clock club) on the Rye.
I like that idea.  My commute switches between the Brockley Path/Peckham Rye/canal route, the Brockley Path/Ivydale/Hollydale/Asylum route and (more frequently) the Brockley Cross/Goldsmiths/OKR route.    I've sometimes wondered whether I've seen an ian on the commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 30 January, 2013, 08:49:54 am
Plenty of handlebar chewing last night.  Rear mech has just about lost its last legs, its spring has sprung, so had to ride all the way back into the wind in the big ring.   :demon:

Return to work this morning like floating on air.  Until the unavoidable broken glass on Brunswick Hill and the inevitable squashy tyre.  The Roberts gets new running gear today (chain ring, chain, rear mech, rear cassette).  Looking forward to the ride home.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 30 January, 2013, 10:16:48 am
hmm, had a very close overtake this morning for no reason. caught up with the car at the roundabout, knocked the window (bad move) and explained that it's dangerous to overtake like that. the lady went ballistic, got out of the car and all i could hear was f-words and threats. i wonder now if i've ever seen such a furious person? it's a shame that a young (4-5yo) boy who sat in the car had to listen to his mother's(?) "performance". after half a minute of verbal abuse i just noted down a license plate and rode off seeing that there's more traffic in the front and i'd be clear of her. otherwise i wouldn't want to be in front of her and risk being mowed down. it's dangerous to have drivers like that on the road. i'll be taking a different route for some time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 30 January, 2013, 11:00:15 am
Ewwww...

Mr Farmer, when dumping your slurry pile on the field, please to be making sure wet weather won't cause a  tonne of it to slide down the verge and across the road.

Never been so glad for floods ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 30 January, 2013, 11:02:27 am
Quote from: zigzag on 30 January, 2013, 10:16:48 am
...... it's dangerous to have drivers like that on the road. ........

En route to anger management class, perhaps?  ::-)

I had one like that last night - trying to turn right in front of me across my path. I said 'Wait' as I steered round him. The vehemence with which he told me to f*** off was quite astonishing. And wholly disproportionate. There's some deeply angry people out there. I occasionally wonder if it's the frustrations of driving that cause people to be like that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kathy on 30 January, 2013, 11:03:52 am
One flat tyre and one escaped pony. I was a bit late for work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 30 January, 2013, 11:37:12 am
Quote from: jane on 29 January, 2013, 08:51:54 pm
Maybe, one day in the summer, those of us who commute up Peckham Rye should have a flashcoffeeandcake at the posh new cafe next to the old prisoner of war camp (aka the one o'clock club) on the Rye.

I'd be up for that.  :thumbsup:

Although I broadly agree with various comments about the pinch points on Peckham Rye, I find a much bigger problem is the one you can see on the left of this picture:
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k170/smutchin/Screenshot2013-01-30at113413_zpsed8b060a.png)

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 30 January, 2013, 12:25:50 pm
Goodness, just how many people on here do commute up Pekham Rye sometimes?  And how many of them used to commute up there when there was both a lido and a paddling pool in which to cool down on a hot summer's day. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 30 January, 2013, 12:43:26 pm
Wasn't raining when I stepped out of the house this morning.
Was by the time I'd got the bike out of the garage.
But the full semi-circle rainbow (with a very faint double) on the ride in made up for the wet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: FatBloke on 30 January, 2013, 12:57:19 pm
Quote from: TimC on 29 January, 2013, 09:08:07 am
Quote from: FatBloke on 29 January, 2013, 09:04:32 am
On my commute this morning I was accompanied by the gentle tinkle of disintegrating front wheel bearings.   :(

Diet not going well, Fatters? ;)
Git!   >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CJBrewer on 30 January, 2013, 01:19:06 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 30 January, 2013, 11:02:27 am
Quote from: zigzag on 30 January, 2013, 10:16:48 am
...... it's dangerous to have drivers like that on the road. ........

En route to anger management class, perhaps?  ::-)

I had one like that last night - trying to turn right in front of me across my path. I said 'Wait' as I steered round him. The vehemence with which he told me to f*** off was quite astonishing. And wholly disproportionate. There's some deeply angry people out there. I occasionally wonder if it's the frustrations of driving that cause people to be like that.

I'm pretty sure the vast majority of people (people what don't cycle on the roads, and especially in this city) don't realise quite how many dangerous drivers there are about. People with serious anger and stress management issues...

But I'm pretty sure it's a Jekyll/Hyde thing when some people get behind the wheel, and for what it's worth, there's the same issue on commuter trains around evening rush hour. Horrible, selfish arrogant behaviour.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 30 January, 2013, 03:38:34 pm
Today, the wind blew my decreasingly loved Kno cap off my head! It was run over by three cars before I could pick it up  :( passing between the wheels of each one and remaining unsquashed.  :) This happened near Evans, which might be taken as a sign of something.  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 30 January, 2013, 03:44:06 pm
Quote from: CJBrewer on 30 January, 2013, 01:19:06 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 30 January, 2013, 11:02:27 am
Quote from: zigzag on 30 January, 2013, 10:16:48 am
...... it's dangerous to have drivers like that on the road. ........

En route to anger management class, perhaps?  ::-)

I had one like that last night - trying to turn right in front of me across my path. I said 'Wait' as I steered round him. The vehemence with which he told me to f*** off was quite astonishing. And wholly disproportionate. There's some deeply angry people out there. I occasionally wonder if it's the frustrations of driving that cause people to be like that.


But I'm pretty sure it's a Jekyll/Hyde thing when some people get behind the wheel,

That Disney cartoon with Goofy, mild-mannered and polite as a ped, a foul sweary monster behind the wheel.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ZgiVicpZGk
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Meegat on 30 January, 2013, 05:37:19 pm
Not a happy bunny today. Met several varieties of dangerous/illegal driving in the <1km hop round the corner to work :(  Arrived stressed and pissed off at people's lack-of-shitgiving for care around ped crossings especially, as ride not long enough to cycle off the anger (I usually walk!)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 30 January, 2013, 06:22:59 pm
Train to Nottingham - Train back from Nottingham.
Bit boring, really.

Oh, I did a bit of work between the two journeys.
That was also a bit boring.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Bunker22 on 30 January, 2013, 06:37:17 pm
My first 'commute'....a very short ride on a Boris bike from Newgate Street to Waterloo station across a very windy Blackfriars bridge. All of 15 minutes. But FUN  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 30 January, 2013, 07:22:50 pm
Quote from: PaulR on 30 January, 2013, 07:55:51 am
Quote from: jane on 29 January, 2013, 08:51:54 pm
Maybe, one day in the summer, those of us who commute up Peckham Rye should have a flashcoffeeandcake at the posh new cafe next to the old prisoner of war camp (aka the one o'clock club) on the Rye.
I like that idea.  My commute switches between the Brockley Path/Peckham Rye/canal route, the Brockley Path/Ivydale/Hollydale/Asylum route and (more frequently) the Brockley Cross/Goldsmiths/OKR route.    I've sometimes wondered whether I've seen an ian on the commute.

Surely my cloak of anonymity isn't failing (in case I'm a teenage girl pretending to be older man, and thus reversing the polarity of the internet) but I do mostly cycle down Peckham Rye (I venture up from the foothills of Mount Crystal Palace via Penge, Sydenham, and Forest Hill), though generally I don't go to work until after 10am; being the boss of subdeck 14G sector 385476894 of an intergalactic mothership has some compensations. I mostly follow (sort of) LCN 23 home as it's quicker and the drop down Anerley Hill with the views out over Kent rather fetching, but involves the mountain, which I rarely feel ready for first thing the morning. Plus I like saying hello to the dinosaurs at the bottom end of the park.

Anyway, I'm easily spotted, because (a) I don't believe in hurrying and (b) my bike isn't very posh but it is exceptionally dirty. Except this week, as the dirty bike is broken*, and I'm forced to ride a nicer bike (which is marginally less dirty and a lot, lot faster). Don't tell me there's cake in Peckham, I have a serious cupcake addiction.

*the gear cable has been threatening demise for sometime, and I was good enough to get a replacement – unfortunately when I removed the old one the outer cable sheath things disintergrated and the rear derailleur bolt turned out to have been replaced by cheese metal product.
Title: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 30 January, 2013, 07:30:23 pm
Quote from: ian on 30 January, 2013, 07:22:50 pm
Don't tell me there's cake in Peckham, I have a serious cupcake addiction.

I've mentioned this before but a friend of mine has a good café on Cheltenham Rd, just south of Peckham Rye. She tweeted a pic of some rather good looking bread pudding earlier, which was on today's menu.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 30 January, 2013, 08:45:29 pm
Quote from: ian on 30 January, 2013, 07:22:50 pm
Anyway, I'm easily spotted, because (a) I don't believe in hurrying and (b) my bike isn't very posh but it is exceptionally dirty.

Ah.  Then there's a significant risk of my being mistaken for you.  Even when I am hurrying, the outcome is that I don't make rapid progress.  And I believe I have a bike under the grut.

I don't usually commute via Peckham Rye, as it's very much the wrong direction, but I have been known to go home that way.

ftr, I love the veggie sausage butties at the cafe.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 30 January, 2013, 09:21:53 pm
Thank you, Mr. Wind.
Now, will you kindly Foxtrot Oscar.
I'm not sure what hurts more, following tonight's ride home.
Leg muscles from fighting the headwind, or sphincter muscles from clenching......
Gah! >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 31 January, 2013, 06:00:46 am
I saw you grinding along Brockley Rd.  I was being whisked along on the wings of Aeolus in the opposite direction.  You didn't see me, your head was down, into the wind and you had a strange, twisted grin girn on your face. When I returned two hours later, on the same road, I realised why.  And the wind had dropped a bit in that time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 31 January, 2013, 06:04:06 am
Quote from: citoyen on 30 January, 2013, 07:30:23 pm
Quote from: ian on 30 January, 2013, 07:22:50 pm
Don't tell me there's cake in Peckham, I have a serious cupcake addiction.

I've mentioned this before but a friend of mine has a good café on Cheltenham Rd, just south of Peckham Rye. She tweeted a pic of some rather good looking bread pudding earlier, which was on today's menu.

d.

Oh yes, I remember.  And I pass it every day.  It's called Dish and Spoon (?) I believe.  It is however, never open when I pass.  Too early in the morning, too late in the evening, I guess.  So maybe not the place for a flashcakemunch.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 31 January, 2013, 06:10:57 am
And even the cafe on the Rye seems to close early.
http://www.cafeontherye.co.uk/ (http://www.cafeontherye.co.uk/).  So unless we can all get a half day, seems unlikely (or a picnic).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 31 January, 2013, 06:21:07 am
Quote from: jane on 31 January, 2013, 06:00:46 am
I saw you grinding along Brockley Rd.  I was being whisked along on the wings of Aeolus in the opposite direction.  You didn't see me, your head was down, into the wind and you had a strange, twisted grin girn on your face. When I returned two hours later, on the same road, I realised why.  And the wind had dropped a bit in that time.
Aeolus?
Please refrain from mentioning this.
It's the name of my busted VN frame.
No. I haven't got over it. :'(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 31 January, 2013, 06:28:31 am
Oops, sorry.  It wasn't deliberate, but obviously deeply painful to you.  I just meant the god of wind.  (The kind that blows leaves off the trees, not the other kind).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 31 January, 2013, 07:11:49 am
Rain's a bit Scottish this morning.  I was soaked from the waist down within about 2 minutes.  Shard looked pretty, though, sort of wistful and hazy through the rain clouds.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 31 January, 2013, 07:15:27 am
About to embark into it.
Bike? or Boat?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 31 January, 2013, 07:23:03 am
Quote from: Jurek on 31 January, 2013, 07:15:27 am
About to embark into it.
Bike? or Boat?
Hovercraft.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 31 January, 2013, 08:51:49 am
L'al bit blowy on the way in today, especially the road straight at the sea.

I still feel like I'm flying though as I'm enjoying my first week back on normal road tyres. I know I notice it every year but the amount of resistance in snow studs is always surprisingly massive.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 31 January, 2013, 09:01:42 am
Quote from: Andrij on 31 January, 2013, 07:23:03 am
Quote from: Jurek on 31 January, 2013, 07:15:27 am
About to embark into it.
Bike? or Boat?
Hovercraft.
My hovercraft is full of eels.
Which is probably just as well, as my commute was completed under clear sunny skies.
Had to stop and bag the rainlegs and 'tex top by the time I reached the foot tunnel in Greenwich.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 31 January, 2013, 09:44:28 am
[London-centric post]

Can't decide whether to get on your bicycle or use the Tube? (http://www.shortlist.com/cool-stuff/gadgets/bike-or-tube)

 ;D

[/London-centric post]
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 31 January, 2013, 10:07:41 am
Quote from: jane on 31 January, 2013, 06:04:06 am
Oh yes, I remember.  And I pass it every day.  It's called Dish and Spoon (?) I believe.  It is however, never open when I pass.  Too early in the morning, too late in the evening, I guess.  So maybe not the place for a flashcakemunch.

That's the one. They used to open earlier but it's from 9am only now, so yeah, probably no good for flashcakemunch.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 31 January, 2013, 10:28:45 am
Quote from: Andrij on 31 January, 2013, 09:44:28 am
[London-centric post]

Can't decide whether to get on your bicycle or use the Tube? (http://www.shortlist.com/cool-stuff/gadgets/bike-or-tube)

 ;D

[/London-centric post]

Central London-centric, more like.  How far South do you think the tubes come? ;D

Besides, mine would always be stuck on 'Bike' :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: dasmoth on 31 January, 2013, 11:11:04 am
Brass drawing pin, right through the center tread of my rear tyre.  I know this is pretty-much the stereotypical failure mode for a bicycle tyre, but this particular incident seems a little bit too close to the stereotype to actually happen!  But it beats hunting down little bits of flint...

(FWIW: fairly worn Schwalbe Blizzard, as fitted to the New Commuter when I got it.  I don't think I'll be replacing it like-for-like...)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 31 January, 2013, 11:36:24 am
Quote from: citoyen on 30 January, 2013, 07:30:23 pm
Quote from: ian on 30 January, 2013, 07:22:50 pm
Don't tell me there's cake in Peckham, I have a serious cupcake addiction.

I've mentioned this before but a friend of mine has a good café on Cheltenham Rd, just south of Peckham Rye. She tweeted a pic of some rather good looking bread pudding earlier, which was on today's menu.

d.

Ah, I'd not seen that one, I cut round the back by the (ex) Ivy House pub (sadly, I'm sure counting down until it becomes more identikit flats, which is a shame as it had a lot of potential and lovely little theatre).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 31 January, 2013, 12:15:23 pm
I tend to ignore the cycle route signs and turn left onto Ivydale which curves round to the right to become Cheltenham Rd, solely because that is what I did before there were any cycle routes. I think the cycle route is signed past the Ivy House to avoid the buses on the pinch points. It's about the same distance but a couple more turns than the way I go.
The Ivy House was a real quirky little pub, wasn't it?  Some of the theatre shows were, to say the least, a bit "alternative", in the sense of, "what the hell was that all about?"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 31 January, 2013, 12:33:07 pm
It's Grade II listed and has been saved from such a fate by something called The Localism Act, I beleive.
Some pretty famous bands played there over the years.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 31 January, 2013, 12:49:21 pm
I absolutely flew home last night. Glorious.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 31 January, 2013, 01:06:56 pm
Going like a train Tailwind this morning, but had trouble catching the guy in front, who was at a constant 200m. Then I saw him walking and parking his bike. I asked if he had all he needed. Evidently not. He had a repair kit and mini pump.  I delved into my bar bag for a spare tube then gave him a bit of instruction/took over the fixing as he wasn't well versed in the art of tube replacement.  Hopefully the donated tube was a good one.

Couldn't find my velcro strap for holding the pump in place when I set off again.  Found it self-attached to the cuff of my jacket when I got to work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 31 January, 2013, 01:59:26 pm
What should have been a tailwind had swung around a bit, so was more a sidewind.  It still felt harder work than the headwind I was supposed to have had on the way home last night. ???

A mixture of bright sunshine and heavy rain coming in, but the wind was an almost constant drag.  I wonder what it will be like on the way home?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 31 January, 2013, 02:33:50 pm
Quote from: jane on 31 January, 2013, 12:15:23 pm
I tend to ignore the cycle route signs and turn left onto Ivydale which curves round to the right to become Cheltenham Rd, solely because that is what I did before there were any cycle routes. I think the cycle route is signed past the Ivy House to avoid the buses on the pinch points. It's about the same distance but a couple more turns than the way I go.
The Ivy House was a real quirky little pub, wasn't it?  Some of the theatre shows were, to say the least, a bit "alternative", in the sense of, "what the hell was that all about?"

Well, my wife has graced the stage there...

Quote from: Jurek on 31 January, 2013, 12:33:07 pm
It's Grade II listed and has been saved from such a fate by something called The Localism Act, I beleive.
Some pretty famous bands played there over the years.

Ah. Seems so (http://now-here-this.timeout.com/2013/01/21/the-peoples-pub-locals-buy-the-ivy-house-pub-in-nunhead/). That's good news. I'm no longer a local (I used to live in Brockley), having migrated south, but it would be a shame to see it go the usual route (when I lived in Brockley they pulled down the pub at the end of our road – admittedly, it wasn't a particularly inviting pub – and it's probably still a weed-strewn lot because they'd already put a bazillion identikit flats around the station).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 31 January, 2013, 05:31:50 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 31 January, 2013, 01:06:56 pm
Going like a train Tailwind this morning, but had trouble catching the guy in front, who was at a constant 200m. Then I saw him walking and parking his bike. I asked if he had all he needed. Evidently not. He had a repair kit and mini pump.  I delved into my bar bag for a spare tube then gave him a bit of instruction/took over the fixing as he wasn't well versed in the art of tube replacement.  Hopefully the donated tube was a good one.

Couldn't find my velcro strap for holding the pump in place when I set off again.  Found it self-attached to the cuff of my jacket when I got to work.

And following on from that, I went for a pootle at lunchtime, idly wondering what would happen if I got a puncture having given away my spare tube. The answer was walk back to the office, as a puncture occurred to break my train of thought. Arse. Fortunately I have another spare in my other bike bag. Fettling in a minute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 31 January, 2013, 07:49:40 pm
Thought I'd come across an accident involving a car and a bicycle (or more accurately the users of those conveyances).

Saw a bike front light flashing away but not moving at the bottom of a hill, thought at first it was someone fixing a puncture or somesuch. As I got closer I realised there was a car stopped too, half in the road on an unlit lane with no lights or hazard lights on. And a big mass between the car and bike. Which coupled with it all being quiet made me think there was a downed cyclist  :-X :-\

Then I turned the corner slightly more and there were too people crouched by the side of the car in the road, stopped to check all ok and it turns out the driver had been being a good samaritan giving the cyclist a light as his derallier had broken. Unfortunately the driver had hit a pothole and burst his tyre/damaged his wheel and they were in the process of changing it.

Phew, my heart was in my mouth for a bit there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 01 February, 2013, 09:26:25 am
Soaked again
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 01 February, 2013, 09:37:54 am
Whhhoooooooooaaaaaaaaa there Janey. One surely can't leap in with "Soaked again" without recognising Ashamanananers heart-warming story of their commute, and heart-warming life-affirming it is isn't it!

A collaboration of different road users, one being a good samaritan, and then having it reciprocated!

Lovely.




Oh, and I got pretty damp this morning too, I might add.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 01 February, 2013, 10:14:54 am
I got dressed for rain, which had stopped when I left the house.
The roads had been salted last night, as I could taste it in the spray from the front wheel.
I have a coffee.
Job done.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 01 February, 2013, 11:13:53 am
Also soaked again. Remembered spare gloves as they didnt dry out over the day yesterday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 01 February, 2013, 12:15:09 pm
Quote from: Riggers on 01 February, 2013, 09:37:54 am
Whhhoooooooooaaaaaaaaa there Janey. One surely can't leap in with "Soaked again" without recognising Ashamanananers heart-warming story of their commute, and heart-warming life-affirming it is isn't it!

A collaboration of different road users, one being a good samaritan, and then having it reciprocated!

Lovely.




Oh, and I got pretty damp this morning too, I might add.
Apologies, but I posted that in just about 30 seconds as I sat down for a minute at my desk, swigged a mouthful of coffee, just as my class trooped back in after assembly.  I shouldn't really post at work, but, smetimes I have a minute here and there. 
As it happens, I like the rain.  My daughter and I rode all the way from Peckham to the Barbican once, in a torrential summer downpour, complete with thunder and lightning, singing all the songs about rain we could remember.  And I have lost count of the times I have descended hills in the Dales or Scotland for example, enevloped in what feels like my own personal raincloud laughing out loud, and just about resisting the tempatation to swing my legs up on the crossbar, screamming wheeeeeeeeeeeee!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
    This morning I was so tempted to just ride on through the rain, up over Tower Bridge, into the city and relive my time as a courier, the wet days working on the bike, hurtling around in the pouring rain, shouting at, and swerving to avoid (unsuccessfully, sometimes) suited city types, oblivious to traffic under their enormous umbrellas. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 01 February, 2013, 12:15:36 pm
Left foot wet.
B@d@$$ cyclist. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 01 February, 2013, 02:21:18 pm
Soaked

Overtook a guy on the New Kent Road riding a hybrid qwith what can best be desribed as a transparent tent attached.  I guess he was dry but it did look a bit comical
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 01 February, 2013, 06:39:42 pm
Oooh! How weird was that?!  I saw him too, as I was dodging the traffic on the OKR to get to Aldi for fruit for my class fruit bowl. My school is about a minute away, on the other side of the road.  About 8.15 am?
   I wondered how it would handle in the wind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lordy on 01 February, 2013, 07:33:43 pm
Blimey it was almost a light night riding home tonight (summers on it's way :thumbsup:)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 01 February, 2013, 08:03:50 pm
What a wonderfully calm, calm, calm commute home tonight - compared to the unabated buffeting of the last few days.
Left work early too. Whoop!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 01 February, 2013, 09:08:26 pm
A nice ride home in the dry without much wind and my dry gloves were a good choice as the ones from this morning were still rather soggy.

But I don't know if the ride into the wind was harder than I thought last night or if it's the squash I played Wednesday but by golly my legs hurt this evening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 01 February, 2013, 09:36:42 pm
Quote from: jane on 01 February, 2013, 06:39:42 pm
Oooh! How weird was that?!  I saw him too, as I was dodging the traffic on the OKR to get to Aldi for fruit for my class fruit bowl. My school is about a minute away, on the other side of the road.  About 8.15 am?
   I wondered how it would handle in the wind.

Yep, sounds about right. I think I was a bit further along the road when I saw him.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 01 February, 2013, 10:21:45 pm
Left at 4:40 tonight.  Blimey, it was still light(ish).  Not like last night when, trying to finish something that refused to get finished, I didn't leave until 7, and that was only because building security picked me up - leg and a wing - and unceremoniously dumped me in the car park.
OK, they didn't really, but I could tell that was what they really wanted to do.  All that puffing out of the chest and overuse of the word "Sir".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 02 February, 2013, 06:54:00 pm
Good ride in today, despite Saturday legs...shame about the lack of underpants as I started to get changed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 04 February, 2013, 09:47:18 am
Feeling a bit limp, light-headed and rubbish today which is really annoying considering I hardly overdid it this weekend, which consisted of nothing more strenuous than walking the dog to Brixton market to get some veg. Nearly ground to a halt when a turn meant the wind was against me for a short while. Ugh.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 04 February, 2013, 10:13:44 am
Quote from: Gandalf on 02 February, 2013, 06:54:00 pm
Good ride in today, despite Saturday legs...shame about the lack of underpants as I started to get changed.

That's better than a lack of trousers, so you end up wandering around the office in your shorts until Naxt/BHS/Debenhams opens :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 04 February, 2013, 10:34:01 am
Must remember to keep disposable gloves in the Brompton saddle bag with the cover.  Then when I drop the chain flipping the back wheel out, I don't get bl**dy filthy hands on my way to the office.  Thanks to the nice chap at Victoria Station who held up the back wheel while I rotated the cranks!  Really need more than one pair of hands, but I'm just clumsy like that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 04 February, 2013, 10:51:38 am
Eventful ride to work this morning. First I had to stop to put some air in my soft front tyre. Then I had to stop again to put some air in my soft rear tyre. Then this happened...

(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k170/smutchin/FE17BEEC-0C56-4A3B-B16D-7C9889E2620A-6329-00000A1B0E5C43FC_zpsc34c5b13.jpg)

It wasn't exactly ideal that it happened while I was pushing away from the lights at the Waterloo roundabout (coming from York Road) with a van accelerating behind me. I pushed off, felt something snap, then tumbled to the ground. No damage done, fortunately. Took me a while to twig what had happened - I was initially looking at the chain as the culprit, but then I noticed the left pedal was missing.

On closer inspection, there seems to be some oxidation on the break, so I'm guessing there's been a crack in the crank for some time:

(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k170/smutchin/689CF950-212C-498F-8442-0C8D2DAA7928-6329-00000A1B1C9AB02B_zps20d50527.jpg)

Hmmm.

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 February, 2013, 11:04:06 am
Very similar to my incident.  Glad you're not hurt.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 04 February, 2013, 11:09:13 am
scary. glad you're ok
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 04 February, 2013, 11:16:11 am
That was lucky, Citoyen. Could've been messy....

I knew I should've treated last night's spontaneous tyre explosion (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=10706.msg1412236#msg1412236) with more suspicion.
Just as I was about to go on the canal path under Lea Bridge road  it went again.
Replaced the tube. Couldn't find what had caused it (same as last night).
A mile down the road the same happened again.
Replaced it using my last spare tube - again unable to find the cause - only for it to blow again about 100m from work.
Someone here at work has kindly given me a spare tube to get me home - but I'm reluctant to undertake the journey without haveing first established the cause, and secondly, armed myself with some spares.
Gah!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 04 February, 2013, 11:27:30 am
I'd put my money on a smallish split in the tyre. Inner tube pokes out and Bango !!

Another inner tube isn't going to help if so. I managed to nurse my bike home once with this by reducing the pressure.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 04 February, 2013, 11:31:40 am
Quote from: hatler on 04 February, 2013, 11:27:30 am
I'd put my money on a smallish split in the tyre. Inner tube pokes out and Bango !!

Another inner tube isn't going to help if so. I managed to nurse my bike home once with this by reducing the pressure.

I'd second that! Only time's that I've had a puncture with a bang as opposed to a hiss has been with a split tyre - usually down to the brakes rubbing the sidewall :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 04 February, 2013, 11:31:55 am
Quote from: clarion on 04 February, 2013, 11:04:06 am
Very similar to my incident.

I think I got off rather lightly compared to you! <counting my blessings>

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 04 February, 2013, 11:47:30 am
I have a new commute. But, I drove today, as I have a lot of stuff to bring into the new (Bristol) office.

Tomorrow, I will experiment with cycling (+ train). I intend to gear down to 67" (or 69" - we have a locked bike shed and I might be willing to take a more expensive bike).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 04 February, 2013, 11:54:59 am
Scary stuff citoyen - glad you're ok

This mornings tailwind and a draft off a burger van meant I hit 38mph on the flat.

Ride home promises to be tough
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 04 February, 2013, 12:06:42 pm
Quote from: simonp on 04 February, 2013, 11:47:30 am
I have a new commute. But, I drove today, as I have a lot of stuff to bring into the new (Bristol) office.

Tomorrow, I will experiment with cycling (+ train). I intend to gear down to 67" (or 69" - we have a locked bike shed and I might be willing to take a more expensive bike).
Sounds important.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 04 February, 2013, 12:18:01 pm
Quote from: SJSBrompton on 04 February, 2013, 10:34:01 am
Must remember to keep disposable gloves in the Brompton saddle bag with the cover.  Then when I drop the chain flipping the back wheel out, I don't get bl**dy filthy hands on my way to the office.  Thanks to the nice chap at Victoria Station who held up the back wheel while I rotated the cranks!  Really need more than one pair of hands, but I'm just clumsy like that.

The trick to getting a chain back onto a chainring that I've always used is to keep the bike upright and put the chain on at the bottom of the chainring with a stick, or something disposable, rotate the cranks backwards and it should feed on nicely.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 04 February, 2013, 01:03:52 pm
Quote from: PaulF on 04 February, 2013, 11:31:40 am
Quote from: hatler on 04 February, 2013, 11:27:30 am
I'd put my money on a smallish split in the tyre. Inner tube pokes out and Bango !!

Another inner tube isn't going to help if so. I managed to nurse my bike home once with this by reducing the pressure.

I'd second that! Only time's that I've had a puncture with a bang as opposed to a hiss has been with a split tyre - usually down to the brakes rubbing the sidewall :facepalm:

AOL.  If it is such, you may well be able to boot the tyre with bit of Tyvek/crispy fiver/bananananana skin/similar approved.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 04 February, 2013, 01:18:31 pm
Glad you're okay there citoyen - scary stuff indeed.

Talking of split tyres (in Jurek's possible case) - I noticed quite a split in my front tyre (I don't inspect them closely nearly often enough - but there it was in front of my eyes at the lights).  Big one too - all the way through to tube.    I will try super-glue, but this one may be too much.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 04 February, 2013, 01:36:08 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 04 February, 2013, 01:03:52 pm
Quote from: PaulF on 04 February, 2013, 11:31:40 am
Quote from: hatler on 04 February, 2013, 11:27:30 am
I'd put my money on a smallish split in the tyre. Inner tube pokes out and Bango !!

Another inner tube isn't going to help if so. I managed to nurse my bike home once with this by reducing the pressure.

I'd second that! Only time's that I've had a puncture with a bang as opposed to a hiss has been with a split tyre - usually down to the brakes rubbing the sidewall :facepalm:

AOL.  If it is such, you may well be able to boot the tyre with bit of Tyvek/crispy fiver/bananananana skin/similar approved.
It's the first puncture I've had on this tyre which I've been using since last summer.
It's actually cut up quite badly, with the bead starting to part company from the carcass.
Phone call to Corridori has been placed. Tyre will be put in the post tomorrow. I'll be flexing the Oyster tonight. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 04 February, 2013, 01:41:04 pm
Quote from: alexb on 04 February, 2013, 12:18:01 pm
Quote from: SJSBrompton on 04 February, 2013, 10:34:01 am
Must remember to keep disposable gloves in the Brompton saddle bag with the cover.  Then when I drop the chain flipping the back wheel out, I don't get bl**dy filthy hands on my way to the office.  Thanks to the nice chap at Victoria Station who held up the back wheel while I rotated the cranks!  Really need more than one pair of hands, but I'm just clumsy like that.

The trick to getting a chain back onto a chainring that I've always used is to keep the bike upright and put the chain on at the bottom of the chainring with a stick, or something disposable, rotate the cranks backwards and it should feed on nicely.

Long wooden coffee stirring stick?

I'd literally just been to the Nero kiosk.  The chain dropped when I was unfolding on the platform at Victoria after getting off the train.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 04 February, 2013, 04:50:42 pm
Three of them held together would be rigid enough for the job. Twigs are what I use when I'm out in the wild. Pencils are also good.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 04 February, 2013, 04:54:17 pm
I usually keep a couple of pairs of latex gloves in my saddlebag for use in such emergencies, though when it comes to it, I can rarely be bothered to get them out. And then regret my laziness afterwards.  :facepalm:

d.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 04 February, 2013, 04:54:37 pm
or simply grab the chain using a tissue - everyone must have a piece of paper with/around them? or a tree leaf
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wowbagger on 04 February, 2013, 05:01:39 pm
I had a very blustery 11-mile round trip with mostly a side-wind. Hard work, and the Bastard Motorists of Sutton Road were playing the "let's overtake the cyclist where it's illegal to do so and not leave him any room" game. The Mercian behaved well again but it's still early days with that wheel. I shall relax when I've done 1000 miles on it without mishap.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 04 February, 2013, 05:19:23 pm
Pig of a headwind this morning. I was knocked down to 13mph on a few occasions. Struggling along at 15mph I was passed by a fit young thing doing about 20 (bastard). I commented on how tough it was, to which he agreed, then nodded to his rear and said "tag on, you can do the next stint". Cranked up to 21mph for a bit, desperately clinging on and then graciously slid to the front on a slight downhill stretch. I did my best for as long as I could but it wasn't anywhere good enough. After about 400 yards he sailed past and my legs turned to jelly. Strewth.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 04 February, 2013, 07:44:39 pm
Left the Pompino at work (it's never been left out on it's own at night before  :'()
Took 2 hrs to get home on a combination of Victoria/Ginger line :(
2 hrs put to good use planning my revenge.
I shall use the VN to get myself to work and back home tomorrow. (Whoop! could be a swift commute).
During which time I am expecting Royal Mail to be winging tyres, rim tape and tubes to me from Corridori.
Wednesday I shall flex the Oyster  :sick: to get myself to work.
Fettle the fixer's wheel to within an inch of it's life, and hopefully return home on it Wednesday night.
Simples, innit?
Only I need to carefully stage manage what clothing I have where, and which shoes (SPDs & Looks do not mix - as you know, readers) I have where.
I don't really want to be in a situation where I'm spending the day in Lycra - or as a result of doing so - getting a carriage all to myself on the Victoria / East London Line....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 05 February, 2013, 09:50:18 am
1hr 2mins with gears.
Which is around a 15 minute improvement on without.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 05 February, 2013, 10:08:14 am
sometimes i get a wave of green traffic lights on my commute as well!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 05 February, 2013, 10:12:58 am
It must have been pretty windy last night, there were three trees blown down on my route to work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 05 February, 2013, 10:52:11 am
Quote from: zigzag on 05 February, 2013, 10:08:14 am
sometimes i get a wave of green traffic lights on my commute as well!
I think there may've been some wind assistance too  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: haydenw on 05 February, 2013, 11:36:43 am
First ever commute today using my Dawes Horizon. 13 miles, uphill most of the way, and some snow to boot! Last 5 miles were very difficult, into a headwind and uphill, didn't think i'd ever get here. Glad i did it though and will definately aim for another day this week. (Cycling to lose weight and for fitness)

Home should be fun, time to freewheel down those hills!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 05 February, 2013, 11:39:41 am
Quote from: haydenw on 05 February, 2013, 11:36:43 am
First ever commute today using my Dawes Horizon. 13 miles, uphill most of the way, and some snow to boot! Last 5 miles were very difficult, into a headwind and uphill, didn't think i'd ever get here. Glad i did it though and will definately aim for another day this week. (Cycling to lose weight and for fitness)

Home should be fun, time to freewheel down those hills!

Well done :thumbsup:

Enjoy the ride back home :)

OT, but which Horizon have you got? There's quite a few Horizon owners on here
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 05 February, 2013, 11:55:12 am
Planned for riding the whole way. But 2am bedtime after plotting the gpx wasn't conducive to getting out the house by 8am so I caught the train. This wasn't helped by the rear wheel shifting as I hauled my way up the hill crossing the A38. So I had about 2 minutes to buy the ticket at the station. I got off at Temple Meads then had a hard time finding the Bristol Bath path. I was sad I geared down when descending at 32mph but somewhat happier climbing at 4mph. 15 minutes late for work. 16 miles cycled, 1h50 elapsed including train ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: haydenw on 05 February, 2013, 12:08:27 pm
It's a 2008 model in blue Aluminuim - Sora gears and shifters and now fitted with cream Schwalbe Delta Cruisers - (Soon to update to a brown charge spoon saddle and brown bar tape). Got it second hand so not sure of the model other than year the chap had it since new.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 05 February, 2013, 02:48:49 pm
Quote from: haydenw on 05 February, 2013, 11:36:43 am
First ever commute today using my Dawes Horizon. 13 miles, uphill most of the way, and some snow to boot! Last 5 miles were very difficult, into a headwind and uphill, didn't think i'd ever get here. Glad i did it though and will definately aim for another day this week. (Cycling to lose weight and for fitness)

Home should be fun, time to freewheel down those hills!

Well done! That is definitely the right way round - uphill in the morning and down at night. :D
Enjoy your ride home.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 05 February, 2013, 03:47:14 pm
It must have been windy out last night, my wheely bin had been blown over (first time ever), and crossing Clapham Common, two trees seem to have gone over, right next to each other, alongside the cycle path.  It would be a very odd place for someone to have collided a vehicle with them (although not impossible), so I'm assuming a freak very localised gust took them out.

A couple of years ago, a tree near the traffic lights adjacent to Narbonne Avenue fell across the road, killing the driver of a van, and injuring two passengers, who had to be cut out of the van, but that tree was apparently not in a very healthy condition, according to locals interviewed at the time.  The two trees I saw today, looked to have been as healthy as any of the other trees running alongside the paths.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 05 February, 2013, 03:53:00 pm
Quote from: TimO on 05 February, 2013, 03:47:14 pm
It must have been windy out last night, my wheely bin had been blown over (first time ever), and crossing Clapham Common, two trees seem to have gone over, right next to each other, alongside the cycle path.  It would be a very odd place for someone to have collided a vehicle with them (although not impossible), so I'm assuming a freak very localised gust took them out.


It was gusty as hell last night, it woke both of us up and kept us awake for some time, it was properly howling. I'm not surprised there were trees down on the common.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 05 February, 2013, 03:59:27 pm
Quote from: haydenw on 05 February, 2013, 12:08:27 pm
It's a 2008 model in blue Aluminuim - Sora gears and shifters and now fitted with cream Schwalbe Delta Cruisers - (Soon to update to a brown charge spoon saddle and brown bar tape). Got it second hand so not sure of the model other than year the chap had it since new.

Ah, just like LindaG's :)
(http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm310/lindagordinho/May%20holiday%20Scotland%202012/118-1.jpg)

I had a 2009 Vantage (basically the same bike with a different paint job) and it was a very nice touring bike (until I killed it last year. :cry:). Now I have the 2012 horizon frame as a warrenty replacement. What I like about them is how comfortable and controllable the bike feels with front and rear panniers attached.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 05 February, 2013, 04:10:46 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 05 February, 2013, 03:53:00 pm
Quote from: TimO on 05 February, 2013, 03:47:14 pm
It must have been windy out last night, my wheely bin had been blown over (first time ever), and crossing Clapham Common, two trees seem to have gone over, right next to each other, alongside the cycle path.  It would be a very odd place for someone to have collided a vehicle with them (although not impossible), so I'm assuming a freak very localised gust took them out.


It was gusty as hell last night, it woke both of us up and kept us awake for some time, it was properly howling. I'm not surprised there were trees down on the common.
For some reason I read that as:
It was gusty as hell last night, it woke both of us up and kept us awake for some time, I was properly howling.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonBuoy on 05 February, 2013, 06:18:03 pm
A nice new bike in the bikesheds today.  Obviously had a bit of a problem with the front brake fouling on the frame so had had to back it right off.

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8230/8448542090_555c3d929f_z.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 February, 2013, 06:19:51 pm
Not the sort of bike I'd expect to see following a derny...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 05 February, 2013, 08:00:32 pm
Dear god, I presume you suggested that they spin that front wheel round.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonBuoy on 05 February, 2013, 08:18:30 pm
We found the owner and offered to sort his bike for him over lunchtime.  He understood what the problem was but declined.  He was insistent that he would do it at home this evening but thanked us for identifying the reason for the brake problem.  The bike maintenance police will check tomorrow !


I confess that I have done this myself in my haste to go for a first ride on a new bike.  I got 50 yards along the road before I sussed it - I think that he has been commuting like this for a couple of weeks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 05 February, 2013, 08:20:36 pm
hey, at least the bike is clean - look at your bikes before criticising >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 05 February, 2013, 08:28:28 pm
I know that this isn't the rant thread but,
Oi!  Everybody else that commutes onna bike in South Brum.  Stop bloody overtaking me so fast.

Please note the new rules.
On spotting a Basil up the road you should either
1) Think "Ah that's Basil.  I don't want to make him feel bad (poor old sod).  I'll turn left here, then right, right again and left back out onto road ahead of him and he'll not notice."
or
2) Think "Ah, that's Basil ahead.  He turns off in a bit, I'll just back off for a while - p'raps I'll do a bit of track stand practice"

Thank you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 05 February, 2013, 08:47:29 pm
Rather headwindy on the way home and I'm not getting any faster at riding into them. But, maybe just mabye I'm lasting a bit long at a slow cruise before running out of steam.

Also did a good deed on the way home and used my bike as a big torch to help a chap changing the wheel on his car. Pothole based blowout. All the more galling for him as he wasn't even meant to be on that road as had taken a wrong turn and wasn't on the main road as planned.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 05 February, 2013, 09:42:56 pm
It was fine and clear at 4pm, then it chucked it down with sleet, ice crystals whipping into my face, thank God for little brother's house halfway home to stop and thaw out with warm drinks and pizza.   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 05 February, 2013, 09:51:32 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 05 February, 2013, 03:59:27 pm
Quote from: haydenw on 05 February, 2013, 12:08:27 pm
It's a 2008 model in blue Aluminuim - Sora gears and shifters and now fitted with cream Schwalbe Delta Cruisers - (Soon to update to a brown charge spoon saddle and brown bar tape). Got it second hand so not sure of the model other than year the chap had it since new.

Ah, just like LindaG's :)
(http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm310/lindagordinho/May%20holiday%20Scotland%202012/118-1.jpg)

I had a 2009 Vantage (basically the same bike with a different paint job) and it was a very nice touring bike (until I killed it last year. :cry:). Now I have the 2012 horizon frame as a warrenty replacement. What I like about them is how comfortable and controllable the bike feels with front and rear panniers attached.

I wish I'd taken that on my commute!  I looked at that for a full ten minutes, just missing being on holiday with my bike.  I loved that day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 05 February, 2013, 09:55:19 pm
Hmm. Started leaving desk at 7.20. Missed train due to mix of lack of familiarity with route and poor cycling infrastructure. So cycled to temple meads. Mixture of crappy routes with awful signage and some very bad driving. Main road bits absolutely fine by comparison.

Train guard wished me good night and a safe ride home. Decided to go the A38 way which was more badger free than the strawberry path. Apart from a dead one.

Over 30 miles today. Currently cooking dinner. Need to do better tomorrow, around 2h each way is going to get unfunny.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 05 February, 2013, 10:22:50 pm
Quote from: simonp on 05 February, 2013, 09:55:19 pm
Hmm. Started leaving desk at 7.20. Missed train due to mix of lack of familiarity with route and poor cycling infrastructure. So cycled to temple meads. Mixture of crappy routes with awful signage and some very bad driving. Main road bits absolutely fine by comparison.

Train guard wished me good night and a safe ride home. Decided to go the A38 way which was more badger free than the strawberry path. Apart from a dead one.

Over 30 miles today. Currently cooking dinner. Need to do better tomorrow, around 2h each way is going to get unfunny.
It'll get better, Simonp, as well you know.
My initial response to having been offered a job which involves a 28 mile round trip commute was "I'll take the job, and be looking for another tout suite! Mainly on account of the commute"
Turns out to be very much otherwise - I generally do a longish day, but the 2.5 daily hrs I spend commuting are a bonus - During that time I'm doing something I love. Big time.
I wholly understand that YMMV.
'Hope it improves for you.
J
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 05 February, 2013, 10:26:28 pm
The answer is train to Filton. The risk is not being able to get the bike on. Also not getting lost. I'm used to a 20 minute commute so it will take getting used to.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 05 February, 2013, 10:30:24 pm
Quote from: simonp on 05 February, 2013, 10:26:28 pm
The answer is train to Filton. The risk is not being able to get the bike on. Also not getting lost. I'm used to a 20 minute commute so it will take getting used to.
Aren't you supposed to be getting jiggy in the kitchen, rather than postin'?  :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 05 February, 2013, 11:04:27 pm
Quote from: simonp on 05 February, 2013, 10:26:28 pm
The answer is train to Filton. The risk is not being able to get the bike on. Also not getting lost.

Top tip: Filton and Felton, while both having airports, are different places.  DAHIKT.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 05 February, 2013, 11:20:14 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 05 February, 2013, 04:10:46 pm

For some reason I read that as:
It was gusty as hell last night, it woke both of us up and kept us awake for some time, I was properly howling.

Well, I do get quite cross when my sleep's disturbed...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 06 February, 2013, 07:43:07 am
Text sent when I got home yesterday:

Bloomin snow. Bloomin motons with no lights. Bloomin motons driving like it a sunny july afternoon. I glad Im home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: diapsaon0 on 06 February, 2013, 08:52:48 am
Quote from: Kim on 05 February, 2013, 11:04:27 pm
Quote from: simonp on 05 February, 2013, 10:26:28 pm
The answer is train to Filton. The risk is not being able to get the bike on. Also not getting lost.

Top tip: Filton and Felton, while both having airports, are different places.  DAHIKT.

If you're talking about Bristol, then the Aerodrome (as it was originally and properly named) is actually at the wonderfully named Lulsgate Bottom  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Reg.T on 06 February, 2013, 09:37:26 am
Was cruising up to a red TL with ASL this morning, when a car sped past and braked late and stopped right in the ASL. Pulled alongside, stopped and asked the driver why he'd stopped in an area reserved for cycles and past the stop line for cars. Driver (in his 60s, I reckon) wound down his window and asked "What's it got to do with you?"
 ??? ??? ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 06 February, 2013, 01:42:30 pm
Sixth sense moment this morning. Was passing a small retail park, too early for the shops to be open, and heard a loudly revving engine. Out of the corner of my eye I saw a hatchback being driven rather fast in the car park. I was approaching the exit and decided slowing down a bit might be an idea. Good decision. The guy (presumed gender) came straight out without even slowing down and sped off in the general direction of Deptford. If I hadn't slowed down I don't think I'd be typing this.

Then, at the southern end of Southwark Bridge, on CS7, I saw a lorry pull up into the ASL alongside three waiting cyclists then turn left across their path without even indicating. Luckily the cyclists also had their sixth sense working today and only one had moved (and was able to stop).

Some days I wonder.....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 06 February, 2013, 02:56:03 pm
On the way home earlier, I was ambling down Walworth Road and this chap on a Scott kept overtaking me. Really frenetic pedalling in too low (or is that too high) a gear. I think he was on the little ring (I was going to say pounding his granny, but that would be very, very wrong). He kept spinning past me and then as soon as he had overtaken he'd get tired and slow down, so I'd sail past, and that would trigger another round of frenetic pedalling. Over and over, all the way from E&C to Camberwell Green. Red lights seemed optional. He zipped straight across Camberwell Green junction against the lights in one of those I-can't-look moments. He seemed to disappear somewhere around the hospital, possibly in a small detonation of overwrought limbs.

Oh, and a giant gust of wind on the approach to Camberwell nearly made me the bite the side of a stationary bus. It actually made the buses rock from side to side, and I'm a lot smaller than a bus.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 06 February, 2013, 03:04:33 pm
Had a flora induce hearstopping 'kinell! moment this morning.

Descending in towards Cookham from the Marlow direction I suddenly spied a chuffing great black tree branch on the road in my path and did some 'Ohfucohfuckohfuckohfuck!' braking and swerving before I hit it.

Exposure Maxx on max at the time so no idea how it ambushed me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 06 February, 2013, 04:21:08 pm
Wind is definitely up again today - grindy old commute up to a couple of jobs in Knightsbridge.  Hard work.

At least my commute out to Henley tomorrow (100km round trip) has been postponed - I'd rather do it when the wind is a little easier.  June maybe?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 06 February, 2013, 04:40:10 pm
Had a fag-paper pass from a Banham van yesterday (he would have to have waited all of two seconds for the road to widen to pass me properly, poor love). One of my neighbours (never spoken to him) drives one exactly the same so I noted the number plate. It is indeed one and the same. Ha. Love thy neighbour. Not.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 06 February, 2013, 04:44:54 pm
Perhaps ball bearings under his loosely refitted valve caps might be in order?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 06 February, 2013, 04:53:06 pm
I'm trying to figure how that'd work - centrifugally, I mean - once the wheel is rotating the ball bearing is going in the opposite direction to that which you'd want it to.
Or am I missing something?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 06 February, 2013, 04:57:21 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 06 February, 2013, 04:53:06 pm
I'm trying to figure how that'd work - centrifugally, I mean - once the wheel is rotating the ball bearing is going in the opposite direction to that which you'd want it to.

Is it?  Tyre valves push outwards WRT the wheel...


Quote
Or am I missing something?

Centrifugal anything doesn't come into it, and a strategically placed ball is a convenient way of non-destructively setting up a slow leak?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 06 February, 2013, 07:11:39 pm
Quote from: Kim on 06 February, 2013, 04:57:21 pm
Is it?  Tyre valves push outwards WRT the wheel...
Quote from: Kim on 06 February, 2013, 04:57:21 pm
Centrifugal anything doesn't come into it, and a strategically placed ball is a convenient way of non-destructively setting up a slow leak?
You are correct. And I wasn't. Schrader valves press from the axle towards the direction of the rim.
So shirley, on that basis, a ball bearing held in the valve cap would be wanting to travel radially once the wheel is rotating, the only thing impeding it's progress being the pin in the valve.
Whether a ball bearing small enough to fit in a valve cap has sufficient mass to shift the pin and allow air to escape is, however, another question.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 06 February, 2013, 07:19:18 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 06 February, 2013, 07:11:39 pm
Quote from: Kim on 06 February, 2013, 04:57:21 pm
Is it?  Tyre valves push outwards WRT the wheel...
Quote from: Kim on 06 February, 2013, 04:57:21 pm
Centrifugal anything doesn't come into it, and a strategically placed ball is a convenient way of non-destructively setting up a slow leak?
You are correct. And I wasn't. Schrader valves press from the axle towards the direction of the rim.
So shirley, on that basis, a ball bearing held in the valve cap would be wanting to travel radially once the wheel is rotating, the only thing impeding it's progress being the pin in the valve.
Whether a ball bearing small enough to fit in a valve cap has sufficient mass to shift the pin and allow air to escape is, however, another question.

I think screwing the valve cap down a wee bit will press the ball bearing onto the pin, allowing the air to leak out.  Bonus points could be gained by supergluing the ball bearing into the valve cap.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 06 February, 2013, 07:53:23 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 06 February, 2013, 07:19:18 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 06 February, 2013, 07:11:39 pm
Quote from: Kim on 06 February, 2013, 04:57:21 pm
Is it?  Tyre valves push outwards WRT the wheel...
Quote from: Kim on 06 February, 2013, 04:57:21 pm
Centrifugal anything doesn't come into it, and a strategically placed ball is a convenient way of non-destructively setting up a slow leak?
You are correct. And I wasn't. Schrader valves press from the axle towards the direction of the rim.
So shirley, on that basis, a ball bearing held in the valve cap would be wanting to travel radially once the wheel is rotating, the only thing impeding it's progress being the pin in the valve.
Whether a ball bearing small enough to fit in a valve cap has sufficient mass to shift the pin and allow air to escape is, however, another question.

I think screwing the valve cap down a wee bit will press the ball bearing onto the pin, allowing the air to leak out.  Bonus points could be gained by supergluing the ball bearing into the valve cap.
Indeed, it probably will.
However, the centrifugal method (if it works) has an appeal all of its own in as much as it is the action of the punishment passer (driving, moreover at speed) that will liberate the compressed air from within the tyre(s).
Leaving NSTN to enjoy guilt-free slumber (assuming, of course, that she has stopped howlin' (https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=26458.msg1414221#msg1414221). ;))

Of course the quick n' dirty method of doing this is to remove the cores from the valves of more than one tyre - but that relies on a core-removal tool...
Unsurprisingly..... I have one  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 February, 2013, 08:38:24 pm
Revenge of this sort always sounds attractive, but you just know that sort of knobber wouldn't habitually check his tyre pressures, and it would only become evident when he needed to brake sharply.  For example, to bail out of a stupid manoeuvre near me.  I'd much rather that didn't happen.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 06 February, 2013, 08:42:55 pm
Don't be stupid. If you do it properly, all 4 tyres are dead flat the next time he goes to start the car. Don't mess about with very, very slow deflations.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 February, 2013, 08:45:51 pm
Not for anyone relying on centrifugal forces.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 06 February, 2013, 08:56:37 pm
Oh dear .... :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 06 February, 2013, 09:05:43 pm
Good luck with relying on centrifugal forces on a small ball bearing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 February, 2013, 09:07:48 pm
Well, yes, that.  But the ball bearing trick I've seen was to open the valve ever so slightly, meaning the driver can set off with no problems.  Overnight would be a different matter.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 06 February, 2013, 10:09:02 pm
Quote from: LittleWheelsandBig on 06 February, 2013, 09:05:43 pm
Good luck with relying on centrifugal forces on a small ball bearing.

That was kinda my thought....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 06 February, 2013, 10:29:44 pm
Shall we move this to a new thread, entitled Vigilantes Ahoy?

NSTN, don't take direct action. One day, maybe soon, you'll meet this person in the street, strike up a conversation, introduce the fact that you cycle and make the point about how unpleasant close overtakes can be without ever accusing said individual.  If you (we) are lucky, a small stone will drop and create some ripples. If you (we) are not, it won't and they will forever remain a tosser and a risk to us all.  But I don't think deflating the tyres without some form of explanation of the reason serves any purpose, fun though it might be.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: aidan.f on 06 February, 2013, 10:37:31 pm
3/16" ball bearing 1 gram, spring force on Schrader Valve  300g - I think 50g may  have  some  effect though, but that  is still a  lot  of 'Gs'
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 07 February, 2013, 07:29:22 am
Beautiful sliver of crescent moon low in the southern sky.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 07 February, 2013, 07:50:19 am
The angels have been trimming their fingernails, as my nan used to say.
Beautiful, beautiful morning. Extended commute time to watch the sunrise, before heading to work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 07 February, 2013, 09:14:31 am
Lots of crunchy puddles.
Awesome skies.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 07 February, 2013, 09:23:25 am
I felt a bit of a fraud and a twat last night, using the ice tyres over to boab's. It wasn't that cold, and it was raining (plus bonus hail).

I needn't have worried - they were fully required this morning. Every type of ice was represented in the lanes; black, white, sparkly, silver and everyone's favourite - "The road looks wet, but you know it isn't because the car on its roof in the ditch is a big fucking clue".

I was a bit cavalier on the latter bit (as, probably was the driver of the car) and at 26kph, the back of the bike started to fish-tail. Niiiice. I had to get the tyre levers out to unclench my buttocks  :facepalm:.

Anyway - it was a lovely morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Datameister on 07 February, 2013, 09:37:51 am
Quote from: Chris S on 07 February, 2013, 09:23:25 am
I had to get the tyre levers out to unclench my buttocks  :facepalm:.

Remind me, if I ever get round to doing the Snow Roads, not to accept assistance from you if I get a puncture.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 07 February, 2013, 09:39:15 am
 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 February, 2013, 09:45:58 am
Commute?  Bah!  Stood in a sardine can with lots of bored and depressed people, then a short saunter through the streets of North Southwark.  Not much fun at all. :(

But it was a commute, at least...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 07 February, 2013, 09:52:21 am
In contrast I am very much enjoying my commute.

IN THE CAR.

I have started hating my commute on a bike. It's cold, it's wet, it's windy, it snows, it takes an hour (desk to sofa, or vice versa) and it's depressing. In contrast, the car is warm, dry, and takes 15 minutes. And leaves me cheerful.
Smiles are more important than miles.

(He better take the keys away next week, or I'll get hooked.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 February, 2013, 10:11:38 am
Quote from: boabacca on 07 February, 2013, 09:52:21 am
...Smiles are more important than miles...

Absolutely. 
Title: Penguin down
Post by: Pingu on 07 February, 2013, 10:12:23 am
Bit icy in places this morning. Had a little slow speed tumble on a sharp bend. Scraped knee. Bike seems OK.
Title: Re: Penguin down
Post by: otherdave on 07 February, 2013, 10:26:10 am
Quote from: Pingu on 07 February, 2013, 10:12:23 am
Bit icy in places this morning. Had a little slow speed tumble on a sharp bend. Scraped knee. Bike seems OK.
http://www.keepbusy.net/play.php?id=penguin-falls-down
Title: Re: Penguin down
Post by: Poursuivant on 07 February, 2013, 10:34:32 am
Quote from: Pingu on 07 February, 2013, 10:12:23 am
Scraped knee.
GWS
Quote from: Pingu on 07 February, 2013, 10:12:23 am
Bike seems OK.
  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 February, 2013, 10:51:58 am
Heal well
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 07 February, 2013, 12:06:20 pm
I noticed a bit of ice on the way in, but it was in shallow puddles that hadn't dried out, and which were shadowed from the sun.  Since most of the roads in were bone dry, there was little risk of any incidents.

I did get lightly covered by grit at a junction, when a gritter went past, so they're obviously expecting more icy conditions tonight.

It was nice and sunny cycling in, and there seemed to be little to no wind, which was a nice change. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: haydenw on 07 February, 2013, 12:09:06 pm
Quote from: Lindagordinho on 05 February, 2013, 09:51:32 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 05 February, 2013, 03:59:27 pm
Quote from: haydenw on 05 February, 2013, 12:08:27 pm
It's a 2008 model in blue Aluminuim - Sora gears and shifters and now fitted with cream Schwalbe Delta Cruisers - (Soon to update to a brown charge spoon saddle and brown bar tape). Got it second hand so not sure of the model other than year the chap had it since new.

Ah, just like LindaG's :)
(http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm310/lindagordinho/May%20holiday%20Scotland%202012/118-1.jpg)

I had a 2009 Vantage (basically the same bike with a different paint job) and it was a very nice touring bike (until I killed it last year. :cry:). Now I have the 2012 horizon frame as a warrenty replacement. What I like about them is how comfortable and controllable the bike feels with front and rear panniers attached.

I wish I'd taken that on my commute!  I looked at that for a full ten minutes, just missing being on holiday with my bike.  I loved that day.

Thats the one - lovely bike to ride and looks striking with the cream tyres! (Got a few turned heads of people going the opposite way!)

The commute home was quicker being downhill (1hr 20 in and 1hr home) so not bad for a first effort. Will be back on the bike doing it all again for a second time tomorrow now my aching body is sort of recovered!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ChrisJ on 07 February, 2013, 12:09:49 pm
Also fell victim to the ice this morning, having had the bike slide from under me on a black ice covered camber. No damage done other than a bruised cheek (not on my face!) fortunately. As I was on the hub-geared pompetamine (or HMS Dreadnought as it shall now be known) I think the road would come off worse from any impact!

Looking at the local news there seems to have been a three car crash about 10 minutes after I picked myself off the tarmac and the road's been closed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 February, 2013, 04:29:20 pm
Hope your bruising heals quickly and you don't get too stiff.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 07 February, 2013, 05:10:45 pm
Quote from: zigzag on 30 January, 2013, 10:16:48 am
hmm, had a very close overtake this morning for no reason. caught up with the car at the roundabout, knocked the window (bad move) and explained that it's dangerous to overtake like that. the lady went ballistic, got out of the car and all i could hear was f-words and threats. i wonder now if i've ever seen such a furious person? it's a shame that a young (4-5yo) boy who sat in the car had to listen to his mother's(?) "performance". after half a minute of verbal abuse i just noted down a license plate and rode off seeing that there's more traffic in the front and i'd be clear of her. otherwise i wouldn't want to be in front of her and risk being mowed down. it's dangerous to have drivers like that on the road. i'll be taking a different route for some time.

saw this lady at the traffic lights today again, stopped to smile and wave her "hello!", initially her face expression was "what does he want?", but after few moments i think she recalled me and looked away. it's a shame that she's using the same road at the same time as i do - i've seen her cutting in front of another cyclist today..
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 07 February, 2013, 06:56:37 pm
Quote from: ChrisJ on 07 February, 2013, 12:09:49 pm
Also fell victim to the ice this morning, having had the bike slide from under me on a black ice covered camber. No damage done other than a bruised cheek (not on my face!) fortunately. As I was on the hub-geared pompetamine (or HMS Dreadnought as it shall now be known) I think the road would come off worse from any impact!

Looking at the local news there seems to have been a three car crash about 10 minutes after I picked myself off the tarmac and the road's been closed.

Sympathies - GWS  :)
Title: Re: Penguin down
Post by: Pingu on 07 February, 2013, 06:58:40 pm

Quote from: Pingu on 07 February, 2013, 10:12:23 am
Scraped knee.

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8109/8454135572_964563bee7_z.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/the_pingus/8454135572/)
IMG_1244 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/the_pingus/8454135572/) by The Pingus (http://www.flickr.com/people/the_pingus/), on Flickr

Quote from: Pingu on 07 February, 2013, 10:12:23 am
Bike seems OK.

Scuffed new brake lever  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 07 February, 2013, 08:12:51 pm
Dear cyclist lady, squeezing by the inside of me while I wait at the lights is not clever. It's even less clever to then to put your feet down and push through the dozens of people on the pedestrian crossing. It's splendidly – yet entertainingly – stupid to do this when there's a police motorcyclist waiting at the same light.

I did Nelson "ha-ha" her as the police officer pulled her over.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ChrisJ on 07 February, 2013, 08:23:41 pm
Ouch, looks like I got off lightly compared to you Pingu! I must have had a premonition this morning as I'd put on an old jacket and tights, though both were as unscathed as the bike - I just slid a while on almost frictionless Tarmac!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 07 February, 2013, 08:26:53 pm
Stopped to help a car driver with a flat tyres, they couldn't get the wheel bolts undone, a bit of me bouncing on the end of the spanner sorted that.

That's three pothole induced punctures on the same stretch of road in just over a week. That road is in shocking condition.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 07 February, 2013, 11:02:42 pm
For the second time this week, when I got to the roadworks outside The Bedford (https://maps.google.co.uk/?ll=51.442536,-0.149539&spn=0.001144,0.002355&t=m&z=18) in Balham, there was a long line of cars waiting at the lights, at a time of day when the should have been three or four at most.  These lights seem to have a habit of going into what I assume is fail safe mode, ie all at red.  Eventually one of the drivers normally realises, and goes for it.  Given the two and half pedestrians, for cyclists it's generally easy to carefully go through the lights and up the pedestrian tunnel, rather than risking going along the road, and the sudden surge of cars when the rest follow the adventurous one (last time, several minutes after I'd gone through).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: haydenw on 08 February, 2013, 09:13:04 am
Second ever commute in today and the 13 miles felt easier. Still a lung busting last 5 miles but i was able to grind it out knowing what was coming. Looking forward to the downhill home now and the bacon cob i've earned!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 08 February, 2013, 09:25:00 am
FIrst commute with the hub dynamo and cyo installed this morning - so I overselpt and ended up cycling in in daylight :facepalm:

After riding a road bike and a singlespeed for the last 4 months, the silly low gears on the tourer (42t big ring) didn't half feel twiddly. Also noticed how much smoother that bike's gear changes are and the big one, after worrying myself that the wheel wouldn't spin when off the bike, I didn't notice the drag of the dynohub when riding at all :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 08 February, 2013, 09:37:37 am
Bunbury and shyumu managed to scare me off riding home down Low Lane, so instead I found myself pottering through Hemlington to find a way home via Stainton.  Having said that, it was not unpleasant.  A couple of close overtakes by taxis on Ladgate Lane (ho hum), and I enjoyed the route to Maltby.  It was like being out in the country.  Not as much further than my usual route as I thought.  Very cold till I got going, my fingers and cheeks were nipping, and the studded tyres are hard work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 08 February, 2013, 09:41:35 am
Quote from: Lindagordinho on 08 February, 2013, 09:37:37 am
Bunbury and shyumu managed to scare me off riding home down Low Lane, so instead I found myself pottering through Hemlington to find a way home via Stainton.  Having said that, it was not unpleasant.  A couple of close overtakes by taxis on Ladgate Lane (ho hum), and I enjoyed the route to Maltby.  It was like being out in the country.  Not as much further than my usual route as I thought.  Very cold till I got going, my fingers and cheeks were nipping, and the studded tyres are hard work.

I thought that was your longer route.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 February, 2013, 09:41:58 am
Icy roads in Southwark, so I suppose that, with that, and the amount of salbutamol required when i got to work, that 2.8km was enough, but it doesn't feel like a proper commute :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 08 February, 2013, 09:42:41 am
Quote from: Deano on 08 February, 2013, 09:41:35 am
Quote from: Lindagordinho on 08 February, 2013, 09:37:37 am
Bunbury and shyumu managed to scare me off riding home down Low Lane, so instead I found myself pottering through Hemlington to find a way home via Stainton.  Having said that, it was not unpleasant.  A couple of close overtakes by taxis on Ladgate Lane (ho hum), and I enjoyed the route to Maltby.  It was like being out in the country.  Not as much further than my usual route as I thought.  Very cold till I got going, my fingers and cheeks were nipping, and the studded tyres are hard work.

I thought that was your longer route.

Eh?

This is my usual route:  http://www.bikely.com/maps/bike-path/Ingleby-Barwick-to-James-Cook-Hospital

Going Low Lane or Stainton/Maltby is longer, either way.  But avoids the morning school run outside my old primary school, and the orcs in Grove Hill.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 08 February, 2013, 09:46:19 am
Quote from: clarion on 08 February, 2013, 09:41:58 am
Icy roads in Southwark, so I suppose that, with that, and the amount of salbutamol required when i got to work, that 2.8km was enough, but it doesn't feel like a proper commute :(

That’s barely any shorter than my current commute (though not for much longer)!

The shortness is made up for by the fact that it means I can potter along in ‘normal’ clothing…I will miss that, as I’m sure drivers treat me better when I’m dressed like a lay-dee (because we are all weak and delicate, you know  ;D ).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 February, 2013, 10:15:20 am
I've been travelling in 'normal' clothes, too.  Riding a folder wearing walking boots (i.e. no retention) can make some manoeuvres a bit more tricky, but I definitely feel more like an enhanced pedestrian ('pedestrian with levers' as someone (Sheldon?) suggested).

Bike is in my office, and I am disproportionately pleased by that. :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 08 February, 2013, 10:20:57 am
Quote from: clarion on 08 February, 2013, 10:15:20 am
... Riding a folder wearing walking boots (i.e. no retention) can make some manoeuvres a bit more tricky ...

It's when I try and swing the pedal around, to the correct position, expecting it to follow my foot, that I realise I'm not clicked in. :)  It's amazing how your body forgets years of cycling without SPDs (or toeclips) and the need to kick the pedal around, and then catch it with your sole!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 February, 2013, 10:22:43 am
Yeah, that's an issue.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 08 February, 2013, 10:44:38 am
Stayed safe today thanks to Hampshire and West Berkshire councils telling me (a) that the roads were going to freeze tonight and (b) when they were gritting.  So the only ice I saw was on the pavements.  However, some interesting potholes opening out near the canal bridge and the railway bridge on the Burghfield Road.  One appears to be developing a passing resemblance to the "Big Hole" in Montana, with several layers of archaeology and metalwork exposed.  Maybe there is an ancient monarch buried at the bottom of it.

Was sooooo nice being on a bike again after a week mostly spent in the Ruhr without a bicycle.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 08 February, 2013, 10:55:23 am
Quote from: haydenw on 08 February, 2013, 09:13:04 am
Second ever commute in today and the 13 miles felt easier. Still a lung busting last 5 miles but i was able to grind it out knowing what was coming. Looking forward to the downhill home now and the bacon cob i've earned!
Very cool !  Nice one.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 February, 2013, 10:58:49 am
Quote from: haydenw on 08 February, 2013, 09:13:04 am
Second ever commute in today and the 13 miles felt easier. Still a lung busting last 5 miles but i was able to grind it out knowing what was coming. Looking forward to the downhill home now and the bacon cob i've earned!

I missed this earlier.  Good stuff.  Keep it up, and it will get (a bit) easier.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CJBrewer on 08 February, 2013, 01:46:15 pm
Quote from: TimO on 08 February, 2013, 10:20:57 am
Quote from: clarion on 08 February, 2013, 10:15:20 am
... Riding a folder wearing walking boots (i.e. no retention) can make some manoeuvres a bit more tricky ...

It's when I try and swing the pedal around, to the correct position, expecting it to follow my foot, that I realise I'm not clicked in. :)  It's amazing how your body forgets years of cycling without SPDs (or toeclips) and the need to kick the pedal around, and then catch it with your sole!

After about 9 months of riding my folder, I've a tendency to try a step-through dismount on my other bikes. This can be painful  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CJBrewer on 08 February, 2013, 01:50:51 pm
Quote from: zigzag on 07 February, 2013, 05:10:45 pm
Quote from: zigzag on 30 January, 2013, 10:16:48 am
hmm, had a very close overtake this morning for no reason. caught up with the car at the roundabout, knocked the window (bad move) and explained that it's dangerous to overtake like that. the lady went ballistic, got out of the car and all i could hear was f-words and threats. i wonder now if i've ever seen such a furious person? it's a shame that a young (4-5yo) boy who sat in the car had to listen to his mother's(?) "performance". after half a minute of verbal abuse i just noted down a license plate and rode off seeing that there's more traffic in the front and i'd be clear of her. otherwise i wouldn't want to be in front of her and risk being mowed down. it's dangerous to have drivers like that on the road. i'll be taking a different route for some time.

saw this lady at the traffic lights today again, stopped to smile and wave her "hello!", initially her face expression was "what does he want?", but after few moments i think she recalled me and looked away. it's a shame that she's using the same road at the same time as i do - i've seen her cutting in front of another cyclist today..

Cyclesafe her!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 08 February, 2013, 05:14:24 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 08 February, 2013, 09:46:19 am

The shortness is made up for by the fact that it means I can potter along in ‘normal’ clothing…I will miss that, as I’m sure drivers treat me better when I’m dressed like a lay-dee (because we are all weak and delicate, you know  ;D ).

It's not just drivers that make that assumption. I'm ashamed to say that this morning I came  up behind a lady riding along on a sit up and beg dressed in 'normal' clothes, assuming that I would sail past as soon as there was space. Then we hit some chewed up traffic that required a fair bit of filtering between lanes and cutting through gaps and, boy, could she handle a bike. On the other hand, another lady in full on team kit on a road bike is very lucky that a bus driver - into whose blind spot she pulled just as the lights were changing amber to green - was wide awake this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 08 February, 2013, 07:51:21 pm
Fabulous commute today - 110km round trip to a job site.

Beautiful sunny crisp morning - though there was some ice about which was not so good.

Once I was out into the lanes (around Henley way), it was really beautiful!

The ride home was excellent as I was able to take the longer way home and avoid some of the bigger roads I had taken in the morning.

There are days where a job out in the countryside really make life fun. 

Knackered though - hauling two big panniers with laptop and stuff - actually my longest ever day on fixed amazingly (I will do a 200 on fixed one day soon!)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 08 February, 2013, 11:53:16 pm
Left early so managed a couple extra miles, though extending my route through the park wasn't the best plan as twas icy with no grit or traffic to clear it.

No slides though and a pleasant if chilly ride in.

The ride home though...it was ok but pushed hard for the first ten miles trying to catch a tailight ahead of me and my 12 miles in I had a slightly bonky feeling. Which can't be right, I'd eaten loads over the day and wasn't pushing that hard early on.  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 09 February, 2013, 03:12:24 am
Rode in through Thornaby tonight since Low Lane is a racetrack out of hours. A deliberate bit of harassment by some div in a white hatchback (yeah yeah sonny bring it on) but otherwise not too bad. The nemesis roundabout was empty which might be the first time ever. Needed to be a bit assertive riding past the pedestrian refuges on Green Lane but that's normal. Getting the stress head on early - found myself carrying the crash bleep for the first time in ages tonight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 09 February, 2013, 10:36:35 am
And the ride home couldn't have been more different - double the distance because the sun was shining and the sky was blue.  I find that wearing a windproof monkey mask makes people a little more cautious with their 'Morning! s than usual.

Somewhere in Yorkshire there is a somewhat perturbed Saint Bernard dog.

I rather enjoyed that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 09 February, 2013, 10:40:20 am
:)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 February, 2013, 11:16:22 am
Excellent!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 February, 2013, 10:17:08 pm
On yesterday's commute (by train and folder), as I arrived at London Bridge a chap came up to me and asked if I had a pump.

Normally, of course, and I'd be glad to help.  But I don't tend to carry it on the folder :-[ :(

I hate not being able to help.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 10 February, 2013, 11:27:06 pm
My commute home today was wild wet and windy, especially when I got up to high altitude.
Then I nearly got arrested riding down Cheddar Gorge (which is still closed due to the babbling brook running down where the road used to be when it had Tarmac). The police put their blue flashing lights on to make me stop. I suppose they could possibly have fined me, although I gave a fake name and address so good luck with that! Copper actually said he was worried for my safety with all the cars ignoring the road closed signs and driving down the middle of the road. I said he could sure help me with that if he would actually go stop some of the barstewards rather than waste his time talking to me (3 went past while we were there!). Eventually he did.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 11 February, 2013, 08:47:27 am
Left at 6.15am.  Icy slush everywhere- very slippery.  By the time I arrived at work, it was all melted and just very wet.  This dull, grey, slushy stuff Idon't like.  Wrong kind of winter.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 11 February, 2013, 09:24:33 am
Ssnow. We hatess it. <gollum, gollum>
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 11 February, 2013, 09:43:14 am
Very cold and wet ride in most of the way. Loads of flooded paths on the various commons, so if it freezes tonight that will be just dandy!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 11 February, 2013, 10:15:08 am
This mornings ride in was my first in the snow this year as I was off for the week of the previous snow.

No problems at all aprt from a little bit of spinning out on the slush whilst ascending Quarry Wood Road. Just needed to unclip and be on the flats ready to deal with any front wheel shenanigans.

I did find however that staying between the slush aisles was easier said than  done when climbing. Any normal day and I ride a nice straight (ish) line. Today, because I was trying to stay within the track laid thfrough the snow by nearside wheels, i found myself being uneringly drawn towards the piled slush ::-)

Some of the overtakes were moist as well ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 11 February, 2013, 10:23:55 am
Quote from: Lindagordinho on 09 February, 2013, 10:36:35 am
And the ride home couldn't have been more different - double the distance because the sun was shining and the sky was blue. 

 :thumbsup:

Quote
I find that wearing a windproof monkey mask makes people a little more cautious with their 'Morning! s than usual.

Somewhere in Yorkshire there is a somewhat perturbed Saint Bernard dog.

I rather enjoyed that.

Double  :thumbsup: Thank you, LG, you made me smile with that, glad you had a good one...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: loadsabikes on 11 February, 2013, 11:05:45 am
Quote from: Feline on 10 February, 2013, 11:27:06 pm
My commute home today was wild wet and windy, especially when I got up to high altitude.
Then I nearly got arrested riding down Cheddar Gorge (which is still closed due to the babbling brook running down where the road used to be when it had Tarmac). The police put their blue flashing lights on to make me stop. I suppose they could possibly have fined me, although I gave a fake name and address so good luck with that! Copper actually said he was worried for my safety with all the cars ignoring the road closed signs and driving down the middle of the road. I said he could sure help me with that if he would actually go stop some of the barstewards rather than waste his time talking to me (3 went past while we were there!). Eventually he did.
So it's alright for you to ignore the instruction that the road is closed, but not other road users.
How are you with red traffic lights?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 11 February, 2013, 12:37:06 pm
Quote from: loadsabikes on 11 February, 2013, 11:05:45 am
Quote from: Feline on 10 February, 2013, 11:27:06 pm
My commute home today was wild wet and windy, especially when I got up to high altitude.
Then I nearly got arrested riding down Cheddar Gorge (which is still closed due to the babbling brook running down where the road used to be when it had Tarmac). The police put their blue flashing lights on to make me stop. I suppose they could possibly have fined me, although I gave a fake name and address so good luck with that! Copper actually said he was worried for my safety with all the cars ignoring the road closed signs and driving down the middle of the road. I said he could sure help me with that if he would actually go stop some of the barstewards rather than waste his time talking to me (3 went past while we were there!). Eventually he did.
So it's alright for you to ignore the instruction that the road is closed, but not other road users.
How are you with red traffic lights?

There's no such thing as a closed road to a bike, unless its physically gone. Cyclist = instant pedestrian if necessary ;)
You may do as you please and do the 6 mile detour if you like. Personally ICBA and neither can the CTC who have been using the route without problem since the December floods damaged it. It is unlikely the road can be surfaced for many weeks because of the water. I have no intention of turning a pleasant 21 mile commute into an unpleasant 27 mile one for the foreseeable future.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: diapsaon0 on 11 February, 2013, 12:43:23 pm
Well said that woman  :thumbsup:

Cheddar gorge is a fantastic road to ride down - not so good to struggle up tho (at least not if you're unfit like me  :'( )
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 11 February, 2013, 12:56:41 pm
Certainly no closed road is truly closed to a cyclist, but why not just explain that? Obviously  the officer was concerned for your safety? Perhaps he felt that you riding was encouraging cars? Why didn't you walk the section where he was, given bike=instant pedestrian?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 11 February, 2013, 12:59:39 pm
Quote from: Feline on 11 February, 2013, 12:37:06 pm
There's no such thing as a closed road to a bike, unless its physically gone. Cyclist = instant pedestrian if necessary ;)

Exactly.  In many years of cycling in Brum I have come across several road closures due to serious traffic incidents.  I always gently roll up to the cop who is directing traffic away and ask if it is OK if I slip past.  On all but one occasion they've let me go through.  On the one occasion, a job'sworth CPSO, I simply did as Feline said; I pedestrianised.

In almost all situations, the sign "Road Closed" is short for "Road Closed to Motor Traffic".  However, life is to short to build signs that explain all objects and exemptions.  To the great majority of road users the sign is correct.  The rest of us just have to use common sense..
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 February, 2013, 01:25:59 pm
Would you give a false name and address?  That clearly is illegal.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 11 February, 2013, 01:32:59 pm
Quote from: Feline on 11 February, 2013, 12:37:06 pm
There's no such thing as a closed road to a bike, unless its physically gone. Cyclist = instant pedestrian if necessary ;)
I don't think that is true, depending on how the notice has been served: -

Under Section 14 the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984, a local authority can close a road to vehicles, or vehicles of any class, or to pedestrians.

Quote
14 Temporary prohibition or restriction on roads.
If the traffic authority for a road are satisfied that traffic on the road should be restricted or prohibited—
(a)because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or
(b)because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works; or
(c)for the purpose of enabling the duty imposed by section 89(1)(a) or (2) of theEnvironmental Protection Act 1990 (litter clearing and cleaning) to be discharged,
the authority may by order restrict or prohibit temporarily the use of that road, or of any part of it, by vehicles, or vehicles of any class, or by pedestrians, to such extent and subject to such conditions or exceptions as they may consider necessary.
http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1984/27/section/14 (We just had a couple fell roads shut under that act for icy conditions so I looked it up recently)

There was no reason for you to be uncooperative with the police officer even if you believed that you did have a right to use it anyway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 11 February, 2013, 02:59:45 pm
This morning, in a completely unscientific test, I established beyond reasonable doubt that my plain blue winter top is not as visible as my orange YACF one.  Minor off on an otherwise fine ride in this morning, despite the snow blowing straight in to my eyes.  I was using a bus lane alongside a line of stationery traffic to my right when a hatchback driver decided he or she was tired of not moving and made an unsignalled left turn across the bus lane into a side street right in front of me. Unfortunately, I didn't manage to come to a complete stop and collided with the side of the car and hit the deck, but it was all at low speed (by that point) so no injury, just a very wet left sleeve and shoulder. Bugger didn't bother to stop though :-(

Lots of numpty driving around generally -presumably it's much harder to see where you're going when there's 2mm of snow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 February, 2013, 03:03:50 pm
Nasty.  Glad you're not hurt.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 11 February, 2013, 03:10:29 pm
Cheers, Clarion.  Happily, I was able to get the speed down enough to haul the bike round and hit the car side on, which helped. I just didn't unclip my left foot quickly enough to prevent the fall.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 11 February, 2013, 03:13:55 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 11 February, 2013, 03:10:29 pm
Cheers, Clarion.  Happily, I was able to get the speed down enough to haul the bike round and hit the car side on, which helped. I just didn't unclip my left foot quickly enough to prevent the fall.

Ow. Glad it wasn't worse.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 11 February, 2013, 03:23:58 pm
Quote from: boabacca on 11 February, 2013, 12:56:41 pm
Certainly no closed road is truly closed to a cyclist, but why not just explain that? Obviously  the officer was concerned for your safety? Perhaps he felt that you riding was encouraging cars? Why didn't you walk the section where he was, given bike=instant pedestrian?

His safety argument was that the cars going up and down there by driving round the barriers could put me at risk. I said go stop em then!
Using the A38 instead would definitely put my life at risk, so I will take my chances.
The reason I didn't walk past him was he was waiting at the end of the closed section not at the beginning or mid way. That, and I was doing about 40mph at the time. It took him about a mile to catch up with me because that bit's steep and twisty. I found his pursuit frankly hilarious :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 11 February, 2013, 03:29:39 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 11 February, 2013, 01:32:59 pm
Quote from: Feline on 11 February, 2013, 12:37:06 pm
There's no such thing as a closed road to a bike, unless its physically gone. Cyclist = instant pedestrian if necessary ;)
I don't think that is true, depending on how the notice has been served: -

Under Section 14 the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984, a local authority can close a road to vehicles, or vehicles of any class, or to pedestrians.

Quote
14 Temporary prohibition or restriction on roads.
If the traffic authority for a road are satisfied that traffic on the road should be restricted or prohibited—
(a)because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or
(b)because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works; or
(c)for the purpose of enabling the duty imposed by section 89(1)(a) or (2) of theEnvironmental Protection Act 1990 (litter clearing and cleaning) to be discharged,
the authority may by order restrict or prohibit temporarily the use of that road, or of any part of it, by vehicles, or vehicles of any class, or by pedestrians, to such extent and subject to such conditions or exceptions as they may consider necessary.
http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1984/27/section/14 (We just had a couple fell roads shut under that act for icy conditions so I looked it up recently)

There was no reason for you to be uncooperative with the police officer even if you believed that you did have a right to use it anyway.
So, whipping out the (spare) horse from the saddlebag and mounting up gets round that then ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 11 February, 2013, 03:38:39 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 11 February, 2013, 02:59:45 pm
This morning, in a completely unscientific test, I established beyond reasonable doubt that my plain blue winter top is not as visible as my orange YACF one.  Minor off on an otherwise fine ride in this morning, despite the snow blowing straight in to my eyes.  I was using a bus lane alongside a line of stationery traffic to my right when a hatchback driver decided he or she was tired of not moving and made an unsignalled left turn across the bus lane into a side street right in front of me. Unfortunately, I didn't manage to come to a complete stop and collided with the side of the car and hit the deck, but it was all at low speed (by that point) so no injury, just a very wet left sleeve and shoulder. Bugger didn't bother to stop though :-(

Lots of numpty driving around generally -presumably it's much harder to see where you're going when there's 2mm of snow.

Nasty. Did you manage to get his number? There must have been some witnesses too. Glad you and the bike are ok though!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 11 February, 2013, 04:50:03 pm
He was off too quick for me to get a number but, to be honest, there's not much point in London in any case. I wasn't hurth and there was no damage to the bike so far as I could see. The Met will only take an interest if you've been killed (and then only if they haven't got to do anything onerous like inquiring as to whether the driver has a licence or is capable of seeing more than three feet ahead).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 11 February, 2013, 08:27:44 pm
Glad you're ok Redlight.

I had a somewhat damper than expected pair of commutes today.

The ride in I was expecting a bit of drizzle, maybe some light rain at worst. What I got initially was heavy rain. First couple of roads I had the wind behind me so felt ok but turned into the wind and felt awfully cold, colder than I ought to I thought.

Realised why a mile or so later when I looked down and saw some of the rain was settling, oh yay, sleet. Which alternated between rain, sleet and snow all the way in. Cold cold cold but none settling on the ground so was fine.

And the ride home had been forecast as cloudy but dry. Instead I got more rainy drizzle but as it wasn't too windy it wasn't actually all that unpleasant. Only problem being drizzle on glasses and car headlights meaning I could not see quite as well as I'd like but looking over the top of the glasses was even worse.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 12 February, 2013, 09:49:44 am
Two problems:

1. Wheel slipped after I'd changed read tyre last night. Took two attempts to get it right this morning.

2. Got to the A38 to find the Strawberry path closed. Had to cycle up to Winscombe on the A38 then through to Sandford to rejoin.

Made it to catch the train. Fortunate that the train had more bike space than usual due to half term kids and their bikes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 12 February, 2013, 12:58:20 pm
Quote from: loadsabikes on 11 February, 2013, 11:05:45 am
Quote from: Feline on 10 February, 2013, 11:27:06 pm
My commute home today was wild wet and windy, especially when I got up to high altitude.
Then I nearly got arrested riding down Cheddar Gorge (which is still closed due to the babbling brook running down where the road used to be when it had Tarmac). The police put their blue flashing lights on to make me stop. I suppose they could possibly have fined me, although I gave a fake name and address so good luck with that! Copper actually said he was worried for my safety with all the cars ignoring the road closed signs and driving down the middle of the road. I said he could sure help me with that if he would actually go stop some of the barstewards rather than waste his time talking to me (3 went past while we were there!). Eventually he did.
So it's alright for you to ignore the instruction that the road is closed, but not other road users.
How are you with red traffic lights?
I would also carry on using a closed road in this situation, if it was safely passable by bicycle.  However, given that the police did seem to be there to prevent cars too, and you have no way of knowing how many were stopped before and after you went through, I feel your indignant reaction to being stopped is somewhat unjustified.  If stopped by the police, I just 'fess up and call it a fair cop, if it is, however technically. It costs nothing to be civil and obedient in this kind of situation.  I reserve my civil disobedience for issues where it's actually worth protesting.   I think people who have criticised your reaction have done so, not because of your actions, rather the tone of your response, to the officer, which comes across as a little yah boo sucks Mr Policeman.  That could of course, be due to reading it online rather than hearing it in flesh and blood, so to speak.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: diapsaon0 on 12 February, 2013, 02:45:43 pm
Quote from: simonp on 12 February, 2013, 09:49:44 am
Two problems:

1. Wheel slipped after I'd changed read tyre last night. Took two attempts to get it right this morning.

2. Got to the A38 to find the Strawberry path closed. Had to cycle up to Winscombe on the A38 then through to Sandford to rejoin.

Made it to catch the train. Fortunate that the train had more bike space than usual due to half term kids and their bikes.

Not a nice road to ride on  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 12 February, 2013, 03:46:53 pm
I don't mind it, that section. I would not like to continue into Bristol on it though. Last Wednesday I cycled all the way home. I work near the UWE campus, so headed across Stoke Park down to find the Bristol Bath path at Fishponds. From there to Temple Meads, train was gone so continued along the north side of the river to the Create Centre where I found my way through Ashton Court to Long Ashton. Cycle route from there as far as Backwell where I joined the A370. At Congesbury I turned left onto Stock Lane, to Langford, then on to the A38 to climb over the Mendips then left onto the A371. I got in to a dinner of roast sausages, mashed sweet potato and roast butter it squash and carrot. :)

Big mistake was Ashton Court, a completely unnecessary hill that's easily avoided. Whole thing took 2 hours. Will be a bit faster next time. Was glad I geared down from 75" to 67".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: diapsaon0 on 12 February, 2013, 05:12:46 pm
That's some commute!  I used to live in Weston-upon-Mud so remember the area well.  Many years ago, a colleague was stopped by the Old Bill for riding down Red Hill @ 60+ mph  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 12 February, 2013, 07:51:22 pm
Quote from: jane on 12 February, 2013, 12:58:20 pm
Quote from: loadsabikes on 11 February, 2013, 11:05:45 am
Quote from: Feline on 10 February, 2013, 11:27:06 pm
My commute home today was wild wet and windy, especially when I got up to high altitude.
Then I nearly got arrested riding down Cheddar Gorge (which is still closed due to the babbling brook running down where the road used to be when it had Tarmac). The police put their blue flashing lights on to make me stop. I suppose they could possibly have fined me, although I gave a fake name and address so good luck with that! Copper actually said he was worried for my safety with all the cars ignoring the road closed signs and driving down the middle of the road. I said he could sure help me with that if he would actually go stop some of the barstewards rather than waste his time talking to me (3 went past while we were there!). Eventually he did.
So it's alright for you to ignore the instruction that the road is closed, but not other road users.
How are you with red traffic lights?
I would also carry on using a closed road in this situation, if it was safely passable by bicycle.  However, given that the police did seem to be there to prevent cars too, and you have no way of knowing how many were stopped before and after you went through, I feel your indignant reaction to being stopped is somewhat unjustified.  If stopped by the police, I just 'fess up and call it a fair cop, if it is, however technically. It costs nothing to be civil and obedient in this kind of situation.  I reserve my civil disobedience for issues where it's actually worth protesting.   I think people who have criticised your reaction have done so, not because of your actions, rather the tone of your response, to the officer, which comes across as a little yah boo sucks Mr Policeman.  That could of course, be due to reading it online rather than hearing it in flesh and blood, so to speak.

The ossifer was acting like a bit of a twat. He decided to let 3 cars pass us to go through the closed road barrier while talking  to me instead of stopping them. I didn't put it past him to try to fine me. I had just ridden 20 miles into an epic headwind over the mendips in the pouring rain after a night shift so I was not in the mood :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 12 February, 2013, 09:29:43 pm
Did my first commute of the year today, and that was fine and all.

Just got in from washing down the bike, where I noticed that the seat-pack was missing.
It was still in the airing cupboard, with it's contents strewn about to dry out following Saturday's 200k.

I'd just done my ride in and back with no spare tube, tools, or anything.
If I'd had a visitation, I'd have looked a proper chump, and likely had a fair old walk.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dave_C on 12 February, 2013, 09:53:53 pm
On my commute home some tosspot pulled out of a side road without looking and didn't see me until the last second. He slammed on as I was in the middle of changing lanes to the otherside of the road. Un/fortunately its a quiet road but my 4 front lights, flo gloves and very reflective orange & scotchbrite taped Mavic Top was still not enough for him. Even me looking at him approaching from up the side road with my headtorch shining didn't register!

Then as I pulled in shaking my head he took umbridge at my distain and pulled along side and slammed on trying to argue about me shaking my head.

So if your cycling through South Queensferry look out for SL54 WEE VW Passat estate in Black/V Dark. The driver is an eejit and doesn't look where he's going.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 12 February, 2013, 10:20:17 pm
First time I’ve managed to catch the train from Filton after work. Read my kindle book on the iPhone on the train, then cycled back via Puxton. Think it’ll be icy tomorrow, but I’m working from home so I can register at the doctor’s and get my dodgy looking mole looked at.
   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 12 February, 2013, 10:24:05 pm
Quote from: Feline on 12 February, 2013, 07:51:22 pm
Quote from: jane on 12 February, 2013, 12:58:20 pm
Quote from: loadsabikes on 11 February, 2013, 11:05:45 am
Quote from: Feline on 10 February, 2013, 11:27:06 pm
My commute home today was wild wet and windy, especially when I got up to high altitude.
Then I nearly got arrested riding down Cheddar Gorge (which is still closed due to the babbling brook running down where the road used to be when it had Tarmac). The police put their blue flashing lights on to make me stop. I suppose they could possibly have fined me, although I gave a fake name and address so good luck with that! Copper actually said he was worried for my safety with all the cars ignoring the road closed signs and driving down the middle of the road. I said he could sure help me with that if he would actually go stop some of the barstewards rather than waste his time talking to me (3 went past while we were there!). Eventually he did.
So it's alright for you to ignore the instruction that the road is closed, but not other road users.
How are you with red traffic lights?
I would also carry on using a closed road in this situation, if it was safely passable by bicycle.  However, given that the police did seem to be there to prevent cars too, and you have no way of knowing how many were stopped before and after you went through, I feel your indignant reaction to being stopped is somewhat unjustified.  If stopped by the police, I just 'fess up and call it a fair cop, if it is, however technically. It costs nothing to be civil and obedient in this kind of situation.  I reserve my civil disobedience for issues where it's actually worth protesting.   I think people who have criticised your reaction have done so, not because of your actions, rather the tone of your response, to the officer, which comes across as a little yah boo sucks Mr Policeman.  That could of course, be due to reading it online rather than hearing it in flesh and blood, so to speak.

The ossifer was acting like a bit of a twat. He decided to let 3 cars pass us to go through the closed road barrier while talking  to me instead of stopping them. I didn't put it past him to try to fine me. I had just ridden 20 miles into an epic headwind over the mendips in the pouring rain after a night shift so I was not in the mood :)
I can totally see why that might make a difference to Jane's POV.
J
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 12 February, 2013, 10:32:30 pm
Quote from: simonp on 12 February, 2013, 10:20:17 pm
I can register at the doctor’s and get my dodgy looking mole looked at.
 

Wouldn't a vet be better?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 12 February, 2013, 10:41:50 pm
Quote from: teethgrinder on 12 February, 2013, 10:32:30 pm
Quote from: simonp on 12 February, 2013, 10:20:17 pm
I can register at the doctor’s and get my dodgy looking mole looked at.
 

Wouldn't a vet be better?

I tried but she wasn’t impressed (http://www.the-scientist.com/?articles.view/articleNo/32136/title/Underground-Supermodels/).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 13 February, 2013, 05:53:41 am
Quote from: Jurek on 12 February, 2013, 10:24:05 pm
Quote from: Feline on 12 February, 2013, 07:51:22 pm
Quote from: jane on 12 February, 2013, 12:58:20 pm
Quote from: loadsabikes on 11 February, 2013, 11:05:45 am
Quote from: Feline on 10 February, 2013, 11:27:06 pm
My commute home today was wild wet and windy, especially when I got up to high altitude.
Then I nearly got arrested riding down Cheddar Gorge (which is still closed due to the babbling brook running down where the road used to be when it had Tarmac). The police put their blue flashing lights on to make me stop. I suppose they could possibly have fined me, although I gave a fake name and address so good luck with that! Copper actually said he was worried for my safety with all the cars ignoring the road closed signs and driving down the middle of the road. I said he could sure help me with that if he would actually go stop some of the barstewards rather than waste his time talking to me (3 went past while we were there!). Eventually he did.
So it's alright for you to ignore the instruction that the road is closed, but not other road users.
How are you with red traffic lights?
I would also carry on using a closed road in this situation, if it was safely passable by bicycle.  However, given that the police did seem to be there to prevent cars too, and you have no way of knowing how many were stopped before and after you went through, I feel your indignant reaction to being stopped is somewhat unjustified.  If stopped by the police, I just 'fess up and call it a fair cop, if it is, however technically. It costs nothing to be civil and obedient in this kind of situation.  I reserve my civil disobedience for issues where it's actually worth protesting.   I think people who have criticised your reaction have done so, not because of your actions, rather the tone of your response, to the officer, which comes across as a little yah boo sucks Mr Policeman.  That could of course, be due to reading it online rather than hearing it in flesh and blood, so to speak.

The ossifer was acting like a bit of a twat. He decided to let 3 cars pass us to go through the closed road barrier while talking  to me instead of stopping them. I didn't put it past him to try to fine me. I had just ridden 20 miles into an epic headwind over the mendips in the pouring rain after a night shift so I was not in the mood :)
I can totally see why that might make a difference to Jane's POV.
J
That's what I said, really, that an online post about something, can convey something different to those reading it because readers:
1.  Are not always given the full picture (not deliberately, that's the nature of this kind of thread)
2. Interpret the post within the framework of their own experience which due to 1) may have varying degrees of relevance
That's why the Rant thread exists, I guess.  The context of letting off steam is set beforehand,  and we don't really try to filter it through our own experience. 
Anyway, I digress.  I am off on my own commute now and may post with more relevance later.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 13 February, 2013, 08:35:43 am
Quote from: Dave_C on 12 February, 2013, 09:53:53 pm
On my commute home some tosspot pulled out of a side road without looking and didn't see me until the last second. He slammed on as I was in the middle of changing lanes to the otherside of the road. Un/fortunately its a quiet road but my 4 front lights, flo gloves and very reflective orange & scotchbrite taped Mavic Top was still not enough for him. Even me looking at him approaching from up the side road with my headtorch shining didn't register!

Then as I pulled in shaking my head he took umbridge at my distain and pulled along side and slammed on trying to argue about me shaking my head.

So if your cycling through South Queensferry look out for SL54 WEE VW Passat estate in Black/V Dark. The driver is an eejit and doesn't look where he's going.

Bad luck, Dave.

It must have been the day for it, as I had a similar incident yesterday morning.

I was dawdling down the road and there was a car to my right, waiting to pull out of a side road. The driver did wait, until I was alongside, when she pulled out. I thought it was your typical pull-out-and-overtake combo, which would have been difficult, with the huge speed bump and parked cars, but it wasn't even that - she just hadn't seen me. She soon heard me, though, when I body-swerved into the gutter and let rip a throaty "Oi!" which probably woke a few residents.

She sat cautiously behind me down to the t junction. I was hoping she'd stop for a chat, and I'd prepared a few choice sarcastic comments based around the themes of extra coffee, hangovers, the advantages of looking where you're going. She wasn't keen to chat, though. She passed within a yard of my rear wheel and pulled out into a gap that was a bit too small. Maybe my council hi-viz tabard intimidated her. It'd be good to know it had some effect.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 13 February, 2013, 10:10:43 am
Lots of ice today. Once again - hoorah for Marathon Winters  :thumbsup:.

The flood in Barningham had horrendously icy approaches. There was a motorcyclist brushing himself down and examining his motorbike.

As I twiddled past -
Me: Been on the deck?
Him: Yes
Me: You OK?
Him: Yes, I bounced...

The ice was rather more uneven at the flood by Wortham Manor, and the front wheel more skittish. Cue more clenching!

Looking at the forecast, hopefully we're about to get a reprieve from this muck - at least for a while.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dave_C on 13 February, 2013, 07:41:19 pm
Todays morning commute saw snow and at times near blizzard conditions and headwinds. Its times like these I'm glad I leave a set of Schwabe Snow tyres on my disk braked cyclocross bike. They really give good traction on icey, snowy, slushy and muddy conditions.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 13 February, 2013, 09:37:51 pm
Cycle commuting while suffering from TEH LURGY is not as much fun.

 >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 13 February, 2013, 10:43:58 pm
Lots of wet sno on my way home so I was forced to dismount as I had neglected to swap wheels to the knobbly spiky ones. As I did so there was a sound of not ver good from the rear of the bike. That rear mech cable I had been intending to change had parted. So once I was off the snowy road it was a 'stand on the pedals up the hill' ride home in top gear/middle ring.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 14 February, 2013, 09:00:22 am
Sadly, walked in again today because of my 'off' last Sunday. Can't use my left thumb to change gear on the front rings. Frustrating.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 14 February, 2013, 09:01:29 am
Changing gears is for wimps! ;)

Hope that thumb heals OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 14 February, 2013, 10:02:40 am
Quote from: clarion on 14 February, 2013, 09:01:29 am
Changing gears is for wimps! ;)

Hope that thumb heals OK.

I dunno, when I change gear it's quite macho stuff, lots of tools are involved.

Think we'll have to agree to disagree on that  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 14 February, 2013, 10:33:46 am
;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 14 February, 2013, 10:46:12 am
I rode all the way in today, was supposed to ride with Feline but she set off ahead and I was supposed to catch up - then I discovered my saddle was not straight so I never found her after that. I think I overtook her somewhere (different route somewhere?) as when I got to where she was headed to I hadn't caught her, and then when I got to Bristol I texted and looked on the find my friends app on the phone, and she was in Long Ashton, a few miles behind. So I continued on my way, much fewer navigational issues than when I cycled home last week, though still some work needed on the detail around Temple Meads. I found a riverside path by following a female cyclist who seemed to know where she was going - I'd overtaken her earlier but my slightl hesitation at junctions meant she'd got ahead again. 1h46 moving time and allowing for the few minutes adjusting my saddle and texting, plus the slight mistake at Temple Meads (can't exit a roundabout where I wanted to so had to continue round, dismount and retrace) it looks like 1h50 overall is do-able. Given the train option is working out at about 1h35-1h40, I'm pleased with that, and I'm still not as fit/fast as I will be in the summer.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 14 February, 2013, 06:00:03 pm
Quote from: simonp on 14 February, 2013, 10:46:12 am
I rode all the way in today, was supposed to ride with Feline but she set off ahead and I was supposed to catch up - then I discovered my saddle was not straight so I never found her after that. I think I overtook her somewhere (different route somewhere?) as when I got to where she was headed to I hadn't caught her, and then when I got to Bristol I texted and looked on the find my friends app on the phone, and she was in Long Ashton, a few miles behind. So I continued on my way, much fewer navigational issues than when I cycled home last week, though still some work needed on the detail around Temple Meads. I found a riverside path by following a female cyclist who seemed to know where she was going - I'd overtaken her earlier but my slightl hesitation at junctions meant she'd got ahead again. 1h46 moving time and allowing for the few minutes adjusting my saddle and texting, plus the slight mistake at Temple Meads (can't exit a roundabout where I wanted to so had to continue round, dismount and retrace) it looks like 1h50 overall is do-able. Given the train option is working out at about 1h35-1h40, I'm pleased with that, and I'm still not as fit/fast as I will be in the summer.

Told you to test ride your saddle position after I fettled it last night  ;D
I did Winscombe Hill, Nye Road then Church Lane through to Stock Lane to Congresbury, then went via Claverham to Nailsea and joined the path there through to Long Ashton. I figured you might have stuck to the A370 to Nailsea so probably passed me there!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 14 February, 2013, 06:47:38 pm
I did strawberry line from nye ln then followed the cycle route. Only a370 section was Backwell.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 14 February, 2013, 09:27:36 pm
89km round trip! :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 15 February, 2013, 09:01:01 am
Last night I was getting a bit bored with the usual route so threw in an ascent of Startins Lane up to Winter Hill. Glad I did but I was breathing through my arse by the time I summited. Short but quite steep :thumbsup:

This morning was quite balmy when I left. As I rode down Marlow High Street I was awareof a big vehicle behind me. This big vehicle turned out to be a refuse truck which decided to pass me as we approached a double parked lorry unloading in the opposite carriageway ::-) He must have mistaken the empty parking bays on our side of the road for a cycle lane. Good job they were empty. I think I may have called "What kind of c**t are you FFS!" but I don't think he heard me. E mail to LA being prepped.

I then encountered a Wankpanzer Dick in an Audi as I rode through Cookham. He/ She just had to pass me immediately. Probably affromted by me filtering past the queue of traffic waiting for a different refuse truck to reverse into an entranceway. The overtake was completed despite an approaching lorry and included elbow shaving, swerving back to the correct lane and hard brake dabbing to a) get in before meeting the oncoming lorry and b) prevent rear ending the car in front ::-)

Never mind. It was a lovely morning and the Daffs and Snowdrops are starting to bloom :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 15 February, 2013, 09:54:53 am
Nasty off this morning on ice.
Both me and bike a bit bent but not broken.

Got over the high ground fine, but had to walk most of the descent.
Back on the flat, roads seemed fine, and I rode from the bottom of the descent into the village of Fettercairn, where I went down right in the middle of the village.

A little dazed and sore, a local villager took me in and fed me tea whist someone came out from my work in a van to pick me up.

Will inspect bike shortly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 15 February, 2013, 10:04:39 am
Ouch.

Sounds nasty feanor - hope you're not overly sore and the bike's not bent.  Take care of yourself.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: dasmoth on 15 February, 2013, 10:07:13 am
Ouch!  Hope damage isn't too bad.

Seen on the way in this morning: a chap pedalling away confidently on a rusty singlespeed... without a saddle!  Given the state of the seat clamp, I hope his tetanus shots were up to date  :o.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 February, 2013, 10:58:27 am
Heal well, Feanor
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 15 February, 2013, 12:12:35 pm
GWS Feanor. Hope the bike is Ok too!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 15 February, 2013, 12:21:47 pm
Ouch - GWS from here, too
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 15 February, 2013, 12:24:13 pm
Sadly I was expecting to see that someone had come a cropper as I had a couple of moments this morning.  Hope you & the bike are both ok Feanor  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 15 February, 2013, 07:24:44 pm
Thx all.

Only thing wrong is a knackered shoulder.
It's been slowly seizing up over the course of the day.

Lid took a fair crack, I will need to assess if it's toast.

Bike has (even more) scuffed shifters, but not broken.
Rear mech hanger bent, and possibly the cage too.
Both fixable.

The ride was not a total write-off: it was a glorious winter morning, and the sunrise on the CoM was quite spectacular, with pink early-morning sun picking out shapes and relief that you don't normally see.
A couple of poor phone pics:

Approaching the final climb to the CoM summit:
( The road was like a tunnel of snow for several k, the picture doesn't really do it justice. )

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8097/8477084784_2e65f06751_z.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/62966413@N04/8477084784/)
CoM_Ride_Snow (http://www.flickr.com/photos/62966413@N04/8477084784/) by Ron Lowe (http://www.flickr.com/people/62966413@N04/), on Flickr

Sunrise over the Howe of the Mearns, from CoM viewpoint car-park:

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8373/8477084124_d757e350b1_z.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/62966413@N04/8477084124/)
Sunrise_Mearns (http://www.flickr.com/photos/62966413@N04/8477084124/) by Ron Lowe (http://www.flickr.com/people/62966413@N04/), on Flickr
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 15 February, 2013, 08:19:28 pm
I'll be looking out for you on Winter Road rescue..
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 15 February, 2013, 10:29:26 pm
Eventful day.

First time for a while, work has been hectic and I've needed to carry too much stuff around to make the bike practical. I've missed it though, the amount of time  I loose each day waiting for trains depresses me. Standing on one foot with a strangers elbow in a kidney and my face in a malodorous pit for several miles isn't much fun either.

Ride in wasn't too unusual. One cyclist marked himself out as one to avoid by undertaking a moving, left indicating motorcyclist a handful of feet before a junction. I moved out a lane to go past him only for him without a glance to drift out as I passed. Both me, and the traffic passing in the next lane took avoiding action. As I dropped back he followed up his manoeuvre with a snot rocket. Classy.
I'm trying to find alternative routes through north London that have better quality surfaces compared to my direct route through Islington. I took my carbon bike in today as it is far better at soaking up the bumps but I was still reduced to almost a standstill on Essex Road simply because the world was shaking too much. The deterioration in a week is horrendous. I'm expecting an announcement any day now that Islington and Harringey have teamed up to launch a new cycling initiative - 'Going Belgian' whereby the needs of hardened commuter racers are recognised with the introduction of dedicated facilities. I saw two new stretches of pavé today. The genius of it is that the councils don't actually have to install the cobbles. They can just wait for the rest of the road to wear away.

Long, long day at work. So when I finished I took the opportunity to turn left instead of right and took a little detour up to Alexandra Palace. The view across London was incredible, very clear conditions across the city. I could make out the point on the far horizon over which I would head to get home.
It took a while though. There was a boy fitting in the middle of Hornsey Road. His mother was behaving a little irrationally and nobody really knew what to do. That held me up for a while. My freehub started to go at the bottom of Crystal Palace. I had a little investigation but there was little I could practically do this time. Then on the approach to the last dodgy junction on my journey - just as a car was approaching along the minor road my main light fritzed out. More faffing swapping batteries led to an overall average of 10mph and a journey time pretty much similar to trains and tubes.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 16 February, 2013, 08:40:58 pm
Crazy lady in a car gesticulating wildly. Looked like she'd inadvertently sat on an electrified butt-plug. The reason (other than the electrification) was that she had to wait for me to come through a traffic restriction ('give way to oncoming traffic' was the clue she had missed). Apparently she thought I should have used the little cycle pass through on the other side of the road. Second clue, it's the on the other side of the road, for cyclists who maybe happen to be cycling the other way. Driving on the left and all that.

Saw a near prang in Clapham. Either the guy had suddenly been blinded by a vengeful god after an accidental blasphemy, or the fact he was clearly trying to copy an address from his phone (in one hand) to the in-dash GPS (with the other hand). Neither of these activities seemed to include looking ahead which is – and I'm making a wild assumption here – an important part of driving at speed down Clapham High Street.

Oh, stealth people of south London. The middle of a busy A23 is not the best place to stop and answer your phone.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 16 February, 2013, 10:48:25 pm
Quote from: Feanor on 15 February, 2013, 09:54:53 am
Nasty off this morning on ice.
Both me and bike a bit bent but not broken.

Got over the high ground fine, but had to walk most of the descent.
Back on the flat, roads seemed fine, and I rode from the bottom of the descent into the village of Fettercairn, where I went down right in the middle of the village.

A little dazed and sore, a local villager took me in and fed me tea whist someone came out from my work in a van to pick me up.

Will inspect bike shortly.

Just seen this - ouchy  :o Any hope of some nice scabs to pick?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 16 February, 2013, 11:11:40 pm
Sadly, no gore-pix to match yours!
Heavy-duty bruising but no broken skin.
For a while, there was discussion amongst onlookers about whether I had concussion, and/or a broken collarbone.
They were kind rural folks from Fettercairn, but the way the conversation was going, I was concerned they were going to call the vet to have me put down.
I was ushered away into a kindly local woman's house to wait for a recovery vehicle ( both me and the bike were beyond continuing at that point ).

Unable to ride home from work.   I was able to ride on the flat ( as far as the station! ), but anything that required any effort like pulling on the hoods was not possible.  So train to Stonehaven and a lift home.

Spent today fixing the bike, and had to go to Mr. Happy's Bike Emporium in Banchory to use the rear mech hanger alignment / straightener tool.

Have domestic duties tommorow AM, but may try an experimental local ride PM. Not planning 100k+ or any such nonsense.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 17 February, 2013, 09:11:50 am
Quote from: Feanor on 16 February, 2013, 11:11:40 pm
Not planning 100k+ or any such nonsense.

Of course, knowing you, I expect you mean it's not worth going out for just 100k and will be doing 200k  ;D

Hope the soreness eases quickly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 17 February, 2013, 10:16:26 am
Quote from: Feanor on 16 February, 2013, 11:11:40 pm
Have domestic duties tommorow AM, but may try an experimental local ride PM. Not planning 100k+ or any such nonsense.

Up the Cairn & back, then?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bodach on 17 February, 2013, 05:08:50 pm
  Just seen this today Ron, hope you get very well soon. Nice snaps tho'
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 17 February, 2013, 05:46:33 pm
Quote from: bodach on 17 February, 2013, 05:08:50 pm
  Just seen this today Ron, hope you get very well soon. Nice snaps tho'

+1. Nae luck feanor.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 17 February, 2013, 08:31:19 pm
All seems fine now.
Did a flat 87k this afternoon at a steady pace with no ill-effects.

R.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 18 February, 2013, 10:45:09 am
I commuted today. :)  This also rates as good news as I haven't commuted more than twice a week for way too long.

I'll have to cycle tomorrow as I've promised a co-worker (who is looking to buy a bike via Cyclescheme) to ride in to the office with her tomorrow morning, picking her up about half way along my route.  She'll be on a hire bike, so it'll a leisurely ride in.  I may even consider doing the whole commute in civvies.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 18 February, 2013, 10:52:13 am
I actually commuted by bike this morning!  :thumbsup:

If only the 8 miles to my physio appointment followed by train to the office to get in at a sensible time. Boy am I unfit. It took me 30 minutes to get to the hospital, two years ago I was riding that route regularly and it was the 20 - 25 minute gauge if I was on for a commuting record. Worse still two years ago I was on the fixie, today I took the Van Nic.  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 18 February, 2013, 12:39:49 pm
Today was my best commute so far this year.

I decided to dress in my early Spring clothing even though some Winter remains. So instead of longs and a coat I wore knickers and a gillet.  Much more comfortable.  I left the house late but to my surprise I arrived on time. I thought as I arrived those who do not commute through the Winter miss out on such lovely mornings.

Hope you all enjoyed the ride as much as I did.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: phantasmagoriana on 18 February, 2013, 06:49:07 pm
I worked out the other day that I could add a little loop my commute, making it 7 miles home instead of just over 3. As it was vaguely light when I left tonight, I decided to have a go. Unfortunately, what I thought would be a pleasant lane turned into a bit of a COR mudfest, and I turned back. Retracing my tracks in the mud, I was chased by some dogs. Might stick to the usual route tomorrow. :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 18 February, 2013, 07:03:19 pm
Quote from: phantasmagoriana on 18 February, 2013, 06:49:07 pm
I worked out the other day that I could add a little loop my commute, making it 7 miles home instead of just over 3. As it was vaguely light when I left tonight, I decided to have a go. Unfortunately, what I thought would be a pleasant lane turned into a bit of a COR mudfest, and I turned back.
;D

Come over to the dark side - you know you want to ... ;)
I think I know the lane you're referring to and, if so, your experience is pretty similar to the one I had the first time I rode it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 18 February, 2013, 08:19:41 pm
Darkside COR?  That's a silly idea.   ::-)  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 18 February, 2013, 08:53:19 pm
Was about a quarter of the way to work when my wooly hat felt like it was going to take off, odd I thought, never does that  ??? That would be because my helmet was still on the stairs at home  :facepalm:

All the time I'd not realised I was fine but once I knew about it I was suddenly nervous about coming off despite the fact I've only had two offs in six years (touch wood). But no time to go home for it so carried on.

Felt much more comfortable without it on the way home, in the confidence sense, not much difference physically. Though I imagine it would be different on a hot summer's day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 19 February, 2013, 08:32:12 am
Dead deer by River Green, been dragged to the pavement, lots of blood,  poor bugger.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 19 February, 2013, 08:49:08 am
Great commute in - only someone had nicked most of the scenery - or at least conceald it behind freezing fog!
Couldn't see the other side of the river at Greenwich.
By the time I'd reached E17, ice had formed on the karabiner and keys which hang from my x-chest strap.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 19 February, 2013, 09:06:16 am
Likewise. Clear when I left home, foggy by the time I went past Gatwick, getting really thick. As were the motorists who elected to drive sans lights.  Clear again by Earlswood. Frosty bits on my sleeve. Numb bits in my shoes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 19 February, 2013, 09:14:46 am
Aye, 'twas surprisingly vague and cold out this morning.

Hot shower rescued me man bits :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 19 February, 2013, 09:18:36 am
Quote from: fuzzy on 19 February, 2013, 09:14:46 am
Aye, 'twas surprisingly vague and cold out this morning.

Hot shower rescued me man bits :thumbsup:
You're not wrong there - had ice on my gloves when I got in.

No showers here, though :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 19 February, 2013, 09:31:57 am
 ;D  ;D  ;D

I love a foggy ride, and this morning's commute had it in spades.  I, too, noted the disappearance of stuff on the other bank of the Thames.

Also, this was my first ride to the office in my work clothes - not a stitch of lycra to be seen.  A slow, but enjoyable, experience.

Most importantly, the cold and fog did not put off my co-worker.  Met at Island Gardens where we spent some time trying to get her a hire bike (while I also kept an eye out for Jurek).  She managed the upper level of the Westferry roundabouts as well as cycling along Tower Hill/Byward Street without a single scream of terror.  She'll be cycling home tonight.  :thumbsup:

And finally... there was a new bicycle in the bike room this morning, a Pashley-Princess-like Dawes, complete with basket at the front.  My boss bought it last night and cycled in this morning.  (Must ask her how she went through E&C.)

Half hour of work done and I'm still grinning.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 19 February, 2013, 09:39:34 am
Quote from: Andrij on 19 February, 2013, 09:31:57 am
.......  Met at Island Gardens where we spent some time trying to get her a hire bike (while I also kept an eye out for Jurek). .....

If all has gone according to plan, I'm usually through IG between 07:50 and 08:00 - which might be a little early for your eagle eyes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 19 February, 2013, 09:49:35 am
Quote from: Jurek on 19 February, 2013, 09:39:34 am
Quote from: Andrij on 19 February, 2013, 09:31:57 am
.......  Met at Island Gardens where we spent some time trying to get her a hire bike (while I also kept an eye out for Jurek). .....

If all has gone according to plan, I'm usually through IG between 07:50 and 08:00 - which might be a little early for your eagle eyes.

Got there at 07:55 today, as I was meeting my colleague at 08:00.    I do try to pass that way on my commute, and now I know when to keep an eye out for you. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 19 February, 2013, 10:48:51 am
Caught the later train today. Cycle path still closed. Tried a new route, got slightly confused, still managed to catch the train (it was late but I would have got there on time though might have had to pay on the train if it was on time - too many people in the ticket machine queue).

On my little detour, I rode through a slight flood, then the back wheel slipped sideways on the black ice. I stayed upright. I got to work just about on time, but need the train to be on time and/or be slightly faster from Temple Meads if I'm to make a habit of using this train.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 19 February, 2013, 11:57:49 am
I had to turn around and walk my bike slowly back off of an unexpected icy section this morning. That bit of road is often wet, but being south facing, top of a hill and the sun being out,  it is unusual for it to freeze when other roads I use before that bit are not icy.

One car driver hadn't noticed the ice (and is common on there was probably driving too quickly for the road), and had skidded across the road, hurdled a hedge and left their car parked nose down in the field next to the road. No occupants around when I got there and the car looked reasonably unscathed, so I'm assuming no serious injuries, but expect a pic in the 'parked like fuds' section this evening :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 19 February, 2013, 12:55:43 pm
Today was cold but it was another bright sun, blue sky morning. Wonderfully crisp.  Ice was possible but the roads were dry so another lovely commute for me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 19 February, 2013, 01:00:33 pm
Fog's gone, so it's lovely and sunny now.  :thumbsup:

I'm actually looking forward to the ride home since it'll be in your actual daylight, rather than the usual overcast gloom or freezing fog that can be cut with a cricket bat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 19 February, 2013, 01:06:15 pm
I get to play my lights game in the evening.

Start off with lights off.

Watch the lights of oncoming cars.

If ten consecutive cars have their lights on turn yours on.

If five consecutive cars have thier lights off you turn yours off.

If you arrive home with your lights off then you have won.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 19 February, 2013, 01:47:19 pm
New cars with Daylight running lights probably stack the cards against you in that game now, both by having lights on themselves, and by encouriaging others to turn theirs on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 19 February, 2013, 02:19:14 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 19 February, 2013, 01:47:19 pm
New cars with Daylight running lights probably stack the cards against you in that game now, both by having lights on themselves, and by encouriaging others to turn theirs on.
I must admit, turning the sidelights on is almost second nature to me now ... don't think my car's nearly advanced enough to have the lights come on automagically :)

Still, I'm not bothered - just been out for my lunchtime stroll and it's absolutely gorgeous out there - loadsa sunshine and barely a breath of wind. Don't think I'll be riding home in shorts tonight but I doubt I'll need the merino base layer. This is a Good Thing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MikeFromLFE on 19 February, 2013, 04:05:35 pm
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 19 February, 2013, 01:06:15 pm
I get to play my lights game in the evening.
Start off with lights off.
Watch the lights of oncoming cars.
If ten consecutive cars have their lights on turn yours on.
If five consecutive cars have thier lights off you turn yours off.
If you arrive home with your lights off then you have won.

Often play this game to decide when to turn my lights on - very similar - for each car on dipped lights add one, for each car with no lights subtract one, sidelights / DRL count as zero. You can't go below one, once you have got 'one' & when you get to five you stop and turn your lights on.
Bloody hell it's complicated being me  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 19 February, 2013, 05:40:08 pm
The ride home can be summed up in this manner:

a) A cyclist weighing 118kg and travelling at 24km/h is involved in an elastic collision with a boneheaded pedestrian who wasn't looking where she was going - calculate the kinetic energy of the cyclist prior to the impact.
b) Discuss, explaining your reasoning, why stepping out in front of a cyclist is a seriously fuckwitted thing to do especially when you completely misjudge the cyclist's speed and double-especially given at least two prior audible warnings.
c) Given that the cyclist slid approximately 3 metres after the impact, calculate the coefficient of friction of the road surface. Assume that the decrease in mass due to shredded skin and clothing is negligible.

Pertinent statistics:

- Pairs of overshoes destroyed: 1 (two pairs in two weeks, FFS ... admittedly the last ones succumbed to snow)
- Legwarmers trashed: 1
- Jackets that look like they'be been used as goat bedding: 1
- Number of aching limbs: currently 1, may be revised upwards later.
- Number of cuts/bruises/areas of abraded skin: 3. So far

Comedy roadkill: me, very nearly  ::-)

Still, fair play to the guy in the silver MPV who stopped to make sure that everything was OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 19 February, 2013, 06:57:43 pm
Ouch, I hope that the hurty stats stay where they are now rather than getting worse.

Obligatory question - how's the bike?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 19 February, 2013, 07:03:20 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 19 February, 2013, 06:57:43 pm
Ouch, I hope that the hurty stats stay where they are now rather than getting worse. #
Got a couple of minor bits of road rash but nothing drastic. I suspect that my left arm will be a bit stiff tomorrow morning on account of me using it to break my fall  ::-) My knees are aching like buggery because I was riding the fixed and I locked the back wheel up trying to avoid the inevitable.

Quote
Obligatory question - how's the bike?
The bike's OK - handlebars were a bit askew but that was easily remedied. Bit of scuffing on the brake levers but thankfully the shiny new carbon forks were unscathed, which is a bit of a relief.

I can't help thinking that if I'd been on Pugsley I'd have rolled straight over the top of the stupid woman and neither of us would be any the wiser  ;D

What I didn't mention earlier, and probably should, was that the aforementioned guy in the MPV offered to give me a lift home, which was very kind of him - sort-of restored my faith in humanity, that did.

EDIT: just remembered something else: was checking that the wheels were true and when I give the back wheel a spin the woman I'd collided with made a comment to the effect that my 'gears were broken'. The look on her face when I told her that it was meant to do that was priceless ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 19 February, 2013, 07:03:29 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 19 February, 2013, 06:57:43 pm
Obligatory question - how's the bike?

Hopefully not a sphere of uniform density...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 19 February, 2013, 07:14:46 pm
Quote from: Kim on 19 February, 2013, 07:03:29 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 19 February, 2013, 06:57:43 pm
Obligatory question - how's the bike?

Hopefully not a sphere of uniform density...
No, but it's a pretty good description of its rider ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 19 February, 2013, 07:21:33 pm
Sorry to hear about the off interzen and I hope things are not too achey tomorrow. Damned peds.

Cold cold morning. Decided to take the ice route, which is pretty horrible main roads, but pleased I did as it's quite a bit shorter (8km or so shorter than my normal route to the office) and a lot less hillier. I had zero power this morning - the legs were still pretty tired from the weekend's extravaganza (350k DIY). Bloody hell it all hurt.

Came back on the ice route as well, but this time the legs worked and I did the (traffic light infested) 32km in 75 minutes - nice and quick.

Have to do it all again tomorrow (a rare occurance to do 2 days ina row in the office). Hurray!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 19 February, 2013, 07:54:31 pm
Quote from: interzen on 19 February, 2013, 05:40:08 pm

b) Discuss, explaining your reasoning, why stepping out in front of a cyclist is a seriously fuckwitted thing to do especially when you completely misjudge the cyclist's speed and double-especially given at least two prior audible warnings.
 

Damn pedestrians. They should be made to have number plates and insurance

Glad you're not as badly beaten up as you could have been, interzen
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 19 February, 2013, 07:58:21 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 19 February, 2013, 07:54:31 pm
Quote from: interzen on 19 February, 2013, 05:40:08 pm

b) Discuss, explaining your reasoning, why stepping out in front of a cyclist is a seriously fuckwitted thing to do especially when you completely misjudge the cyclist's speed and double-especially given at least two prior audible warnings.
 

Damn pedestrians. They should be made to have number plates and insurance
She wasn't wearing a helmet, either  :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 19 February, 2013, 10:28:59 pm
Shite.

I got to Filton Abbey Wood in plenty time. But I wasn’t allowed on the train with my bike (one off, one on). So I cycled home from there. As I didn’t have my GPS with me, I just followed my nose  across Bristol, which went a bit wrong a couple of times. I found myself at the big M32 junction. I was the fastest thing on wheels there. Then took a wrong turn at Temple Circus so a bit of a detour, but eventually found my way to the Create Centre. When I got to Long Ashton I decided to follow the nice new Sustrans path. That will be the first an last time I use that path, it starts off OK then dumps you in a maze of a housing estate. Idiots. Once I was back on the familiar route I made good time for the rest of the way, but it came to 30 miles in total, and 2.5h from leaving the office to getting home.

It seems that using the train option, expecting to arrive home before around 9pm isn’t going to work.  ::-)
   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 19 February, 2013, 10:30:02 pm
GWS Interzen.
I have more close shaves with peds than I do cars and other vehicles I think. I always plan if one takes me down to make sure they come down with me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 20 February, 2013, 09:10:53 am
Buggrit!
Here already.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 20 February, 2013, 09:14:23 am
Could see >< this much through my Blocs this morning due to the mizzle.

Had to stick them in my pocket and squint, which meant I could at least see > < this much  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hulver on 20 February, 2013, 09:54:25 am
Cold and wet this morning. I'm caked in mud, having decided to use the Sustrans path to work, rather than risking the standing traffic in the extensive road works that have popped up on the route to work.

Dodging puddles and massive piles of horse manure does keep you awake in the morning, if the cold hadn't already accomplished that.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 20 February, 2013, 09:56:05 am
Quote from: Andrij on 19 February, 2013, 09:31:57 am
;D  ;D  ;D

I love a foggy ride, and this morning's commute had it in spades.  I, too, noted the disappearance of stuff on the other bank of the Thames.

Also, this was my first ride to the office in my work clothes - not a stitch of lycra to be seen.  A slow, but enjoyable, experience.

Most importantly, the cold and fog did not put off my co-worker.  Met at Island Gardens where we spent some time trying to get her a hire bike (while I also kept an eye out for Jurek).  She managed the upper level of the Westferry roundabouts as well as cycling along Tower Hill/Byward Street without a single scream of terror.  She'll be cycling home tonight.  :thumbsup:

And finally... there was a new bicycle in the bike room this morning, a Pashley-Princess-like Dawes, complete with basket at the front.  My boss bought it last night and cycled in this morning.  (Must ask her how she went through E&C.)

Half hour of work done and I'm still grinning.  ;D

 ;D ;D ;D

Repeat, but minus the fog. :(

First, backtrack to yesterday.  Boss spent the day showing pictures of her new bike (Dawes Duchess, in a fetching purple) to anyone who would look.  Other colleague spent the day telling everyone about cycling to work for the first time.  I had a grin on my face all day long. :)  Accompanied colleague home last night and she agreed to repeat this morning.

Which we did, using a bit more of the Thames Path.  (We won't use my TPM route until she's on something other than a hire bike.)  Boss also cycled in this morning.  No idea how they'll react when the weather gets a bit wet, but right now I feel confident in saying we have two 'wins' here.  :thumbsup:

We now have 5 of 84 people who cycle to work at least some of the time.  One or two others use cycles for part of their journeys.  Will try to increase those number this year.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 20 February, 2013, 12:01:40 pm
meh. left my puncture repair kit and pump in another rucksack and guess.. a puncture!(first in ~3 years of commuting). another mistake - took a wrong bike with hamsterskin tyres; small piece of glass went through without much resistance.
ended up walking 3km, then got fed up and rode the bike with as much weight on the front to save rear rim. reached london bridge evans where i pumped the tyre up and it lasted to get me to work. now the tyre is flat, but there's a bike locked up to the rack with a decend pump attached - i may borrow the pump if the bike is still there before i leave for home.

and btw, it was my first commute from a new place - half of the route is the same, another half extended. this makes just over 25km round trip instead of previous 16km.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 20 February, 2013, 12:07:23 pm
This morning I took the 9.40 train again. Ticket machine was out of order and there was a big queue at the ticket office so I jumped on the train and they sold me a ticket at the barrier at Temple Meads. I avoided black ice today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 20 February, 2013, 12:14:17 pm
Quote from: simonp on 20 February, 2013, 12:07:23 pm
This morning I took the 9.40 train again. Ticket machine was out of order and there was a big queue at the ticket office so I jumped on the train and they sold me a ticket at the barrier at Temple Meads. I avoided black ice today.

Did you get to work on time?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 20 February, 2013, 12:18:51 pm
I drove in today.
I suspect that it was only marginally less uncomfortable than riding would have been  :-\

The orange Genesis with canned gears is now the steed of choice, at least until my knees stop complaining at me - normal service will be resumed tomorrow or, more likely, Friday. I'll see how things pan out on tonight's pub ride.

Also got some rather impressive road rash on my left leg  - chicks dig scars, right? ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 20 February, 2013, 12:23:49 pm
Quote from: Feline on 20 February, 2013, 12:14:17 pm
Quote from: simonp on 20 February, 2013, 12:07:23 pm
This morning I took the 9.40 train again. Ticket machine was out of order and there was a big queue at the ticket office so I jumped on the train and they sold me a ticket at the barrier at Temple Meads. I avoided black ice today.

Did you get to work on time?

I arrived at the bike shed at 10.30, so near enough.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 20 February, 2013, 01:29:39 pm
Lovely ride in apart from one t----r riding fixed with no front brake. He could handle the bike but not read the road.  He kept riding in among groups of other, less confident, cyclists then skidding sharply in front of them to slow himself down, usually leading to them having to swerve to avoid him.  Last seen disappearing straight through a red light.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 20 February, 2013, 02:17:32 pm
Got overtaken by abother chap with tri bars at the foot of the hill named  bow flyover this morning. He  was riding naked resulting in a good spray of water on my face (from his rear wheel naturally )  so had to show him his overtake was pointless and was lucky enough to just about regain the edge at the top while trying unsuccessfully to look effortless.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 20 February, 2013, 02:39:37 pm
Tri-bars? Col du Bow?  Will keep an eye out for you when I use that route (which tends to be when I'm short on time).  Mostly riding a green Hewett Cheviot at the moment.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 20 February, 2013, 03:06:13 pm
Likewise Andrij. I usually ride a grey  Lemond fillmore and occasionally a Burls Ti. with a carradice Nelson attached to the saddle.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 20 February, 2013, 03:55:47 pm
Quote from: Arno on 20 February, 2013, 02:17:32 pm
He  was riding naked

East Londoners, eh?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 21 February, 2013, 09:22:36 am
Quote from: zigzag on 20 February, 2013, 12:01:40 pm
now the tyre is flat, but there's a bike locked up to the rack with a decend pump attached - i may borrow the pump if the bike is still there before i leave for home.

(yesterday) the donor bike was gone when i left work, but.. our receptionist who cycles had a prk and a pump! tyre levers were bendy but did the job, and the pump had o-ring cracked but managed to get the tyre to 15psi which got me to evans without riding on the rim. it was good to remember how to fix the flat - i might need this on the road some day!..
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 21 February, 2013, 10:01:56 am
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 20 February, 2013, 03:55:47 pm
Quote from: Arno on 20 February, 2013, 02:17:32 pm
He  was riding naked

East Londoners, eh?

My first thought was 'that's not Wow's usual stomping ground...'

Was about ten metres from a red light today and rolling slowly towards it in the hope it would change. Got tooted because obviously the car behind me needed to get to the red light quicker. Turned around to give the car a filthy look. It had diplomatic plates. Of course.

It’s actually ages since I’ve been tooted. It’ll be interesting to see if this carries on when I have a longer commute that I can no longer do in normal clothes looking obviously like a gurl, because I remember it happening much more frequently before. Perhaps I'll get a skort...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 21 February, 2013, 10:43:20 am
Cycled in civvies again today, accompanying coworker.  Not sure she'll go so far as getting a bike of her own, but looks like she'll be grabbing a hire bike fairly often.  She says she's unlikely to cycle for 'leisure' - must try to show her the error of her ways!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 21 February, 2013, 10:45:36 am
Felt much harder work than yesterday.

Was that just because I was heavier-loaded, and rode faster?  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 21 February, 2013, 12:39:47 pm
Bloody cold this morning. Little flakes of snow were falling the whole way in. I was very glad I had my proper gloves on today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 21 February, 2013, 06:51:40 pm
My commute came to 82 miles because I went in the longer flatter way (that being a relative term in this area) and tagged a BTOTC ride onto my return this morning. Jeez, it's cold out there brrrrr. Had to stand for ages in a hot shower warming up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: diapsaon0 on 21 February, 2013, 09:36:15 pm
Not really a commute, but I've just got back from a meeting in Taunton.  Absolutely freezing cold.  After a large coffee with a tot of whisky (or should that be a large whisky with a tot of coffee?) I can just about feel my fingers and toes again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 22 February, 2013, 09:32:10 am
house sitting for my sister, therefore instead of 25 minute commute by train (23km) I had a 10km 30 minute commute by bike.  :thumbsup:

Just had to make like a pedestrian to get past a road closure at Wokingham Town Centre.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 February, 2013, 09:46:21 am
Sounds good :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 22 February, 2013, 09:54:36 am
Is good , the main problem being that I can't read the paper whilst cycling as I can when on the train.

Also it was dam cold this morning and my overshoes are in the side pocket of the Barley, unfortunately I have the Nelson on the fixie.  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 22 February, 2013, 11:08:06 am
Some interesting experiences on my commutes in last couple of days.
Last night, a taxi pulled out in front of me at  a roundabout. Not particularly close, there was no danger. His window was open and he slowed down and I passed him, and he said "sorry mate", I think he was into his manouvre  before realising I was moving pretty fast.  I thanked him for his acknowledgement.

This morning, some big agricultural tanker did a crap overtake, really squeezing me and other cars: I passed him only 20 yards later and he was watching me, (prob waiting on me saying something) he knew he'd made a bad pass. This kind of passed without drama, but with hindsight its as close a one as I've had in quite a while.

Later I was aware some other cyclist was following me quite closely: Got distracted talking to him and we both ended in wrong lane. However turned out he worked for lothian buses and was knew the bus driver which kindly let both of us back in lane. He mentioned he's involved in their cycle awareness training.  Sweeping generalisation, but lothian buses are usually very good with cyclists. He should do a spot of consultancy with Sh1tty Link, Megabus and the airport express ones too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 22 February, 2013, 11:52:35 am
Got dropped today  :(

Came onto Warburton bridge and a cyclist pulled alongside, usually see no one else cycling at all, we chatted, the lights changed and we dropped off the bridge, then he followed me at about 21 mph for a mile or so before pulling in front and raising the pace to about 24-25 mph, which I was hanging onto, then he looked over his shoulder, I heard the gears click and then he really put the hammer down.
 
I managed to hold the 24ish but he left me for dust, easily doing 30+  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 22 February, 2013, 11:58:58 am
I wish I could say "It was me!", but I'd be lying. 30+ on the flat you say? Jolly impressive.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 22 February, 2013, 12:42:11 pm
Yeah it was impressive especially since he held it for a good time, the straight's over a mile long and I could just his light getting dimmer and dimmer. I decided 'stuff that' and backed off to a cruising 18
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Littlesox on 24 February, 2013, 12:46:07 pm
On Monday, I went hurtling (sic) down the A49 towards Shropshire, and came across a load of Sheep grazing the verge. Thye had got out of a field. I reported it when I got to work in case they went onto the road.

Coming home the same day, the road was blocked just before Whitchurch as there were Sheep all over the road.

Twice in one day. What are the chances ?

Anyway, I got my own back as we had Mutton chops for tea that night.

Pass the mint sauce please !
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 25 February, 2013, 09:47:47 am
Still looking after my sisters cat so another chilly 10km commute.

As I approached Wokingham one way system I saw a cyclist go across in front of me. I ended up chasing him all the way to Winnersh Sainsburys though when he took to the shared use pavement to go past the red light at the roadworks I won by default. Mind I only caught him when he stopped for the red at Sainsburys where our paths diverged anyway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 25 February, 2013, 11:10:21 am
Starting to get used to the mileage - this was my fastest yet. I will have done about 170 miles in 7 days by the end of today, basically only on commuting and utility cycling.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 25 February, 2013, 11:15:07 am
It'll do wonders for your fitness - as does my 140 every 5 days.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 25 February, 2013, 11:19:27 am
Apart from the usual dickery perpetrated by dog-emptiers and cab drivers I also got a rather stark reminder that it ain't half-term any more, despite thinking that I'd set out early enough to avoid the worst of the school run. Not early enough, it seems.

At least the roadworks on Green Dykes Lane have gone, which is nice.

52 minutes to cover 10 miles - granted, I was riding the singlespeed and doing a lot of stop/start stuff to get the glaze off the new brake pads, but still a good 10 minutes slower than if I was riding fixed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 25 February, 2013, 10:17:16 pm
un-shipped the chain (again!) and bent rear axle on my single speed bike today >:( i hope a bike shop can straighten it in a vice, but it's an alloy axle and should be handled with relative care.
swapped the chain to a new one at home. bike is still rideable, but the wheel doesn't sit straight..
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 25 February, 2013, 11:02:16 pm
Nearly got took out by a twat driving a coach  >:( & forgot my trousers  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: caerau on 25 February, 2013, 11:04:55 pm
Quote from: fungus on 25 February, 2013, 11:02:16 pm
£ forgot my trousers  :facepalm:

Ah yes, the joys of walking round the office in Altura Night vision all day - better than the alternative of the winter tights ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 25 February, 2013, 11:11:25 pm
Quote from: Caerau on 25 February, 2013, 11:04:55 pm
Quote from: fungus on 25 February, 2013, 11:02:16 pm
£ forgot my trousers  :facepalm:

Ah yes, the joys of walking round the office in Altura Night vision all day - better than the alternative of the winter tights ;)

Bibshorts & legwarmers, the last time it happened was in the summer when I'd forgotten my locker key & had to walk round in my shorts all day.  The girls in the office seem to enjoy it anyway  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tlottrike on 26 February, 2013, 09:18:32 am
Edinburgh, Roseburn Cyclepath

The woodsmen who have been tidying up the undergrowth beside the cyclepath for the last couple of weeks. This morning they had two of their vehicles (both with large trailers) parked on the path leaving a space big enough for one bike to get past.  As no one was passing the vehicles coming from the other direction I started to pass the vehicles.

I could see two cyclists approaching from the other end and I thought the first guy was going a bit quick considering there was no way for him to get through so as I reached the end of the vehicles I slowed down as I had no idea where this guy was going to go. At last just as he approached the vehicles he decided he had to stop but had left it to late and landed up on his front wheel doing a nose stand which he saved himself from by getting his feet down.

He then said "Relay", I said "Relay?" "Yeah relay" he said "You should have relayed". I said to him "I don't know what you mean by relay and that I was already passing the vehicles and the obstruction was on his side of the path and that he had to give way" he then just shouted "Get out of the way" and then when I did let him past he called me an "Arsehole"

Bless  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 26 February, 2013, 10:10:44 am
Quote from: Arno on 20 February, 2013, 03:06:13 pm
Likewise Andrij. I usually ride a grey  Lemond fillmore and occasionally a Burls Ti. with a carradice Nelson attached to the saddle.

Unsurprisingly I think I've seen you, too. (My carbon is a Lemond, so I tend to take notice of them), I'll wave next time. My normal commuters are either an on-one pompetamie in white, or a Marin flat bar in black. Carradice and often one other pannier, white Kask lid.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 26 February, 2013, 11:19:51 am
Blessedly uneventful on the way in.

Rode the singlespeed again to give the brakes another bedding-in session - don't think it was necessary, though, as their stopping power is now somewhere on the far side of 'truly evil'  :thumbsup: If you're looking for a cheap(ish) upgrade to hydraulic discs then the new Deore (M596) brakes are worth a punt. The previous generation (M595) aren't too shabby either.

52 minutes again, but then again a 54" gear is more suited to off-piste hacking around rather than bowling along on the road (mostly) - I'm going to get back on the fixed tomorrow, I think.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andyf on 26 February, 2013, 06:48:33 pm
Heard a big Crack/crunch as I pulled up to the red  lights at Holburn Circus, As the lights turned green I saw an Alison-Lee people carrier had T-boned another 'Mini-cab' people carrier, No-body hurt except the drivers pride's
Don't know what to think or say.    :facepalm: probably describes it!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 26 February, 2013, 08:01:41 pm
Got window cleaned at the lights by Forest Hill station courtesy of an Audi's overenthusiastic screen washers. Decided to put it down to a case of the stupid rather than malicious intent. The car seemed quite badly driven (OK, it's an Audi) when it turned off to go up by Wetherspoons towards Lordship Lane (I go the other way up towards Kirkdale). Oddly, I kept then seeing very similar and equally poorly driven Audis (pseudo-swanky teutonic wank tank, A8 or some such), so there's either a fleet of them being test driven by idiots through the mean streets of south London, or (I'm getting paranoid) I was being followed by the same one (reg started LV10). I suspect paranoia, other than the squirt, it/they just kept safely overtaking me.

Seems bizarre in retrospect, but I'm sure the same car overtook me four or five times between Forest Hill and home, which is only a few miles. Expecting to find it waiting downstairs, revving its engine menacingly. It's like Duel.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 26 February, 2013, 08:55:34 pm
Quote from: ian on 26 February, 2013, 08:01:41 pm
Got window cleaned at the lights by Forest Hill station courtesy of an Audi's overenthusiastic screen washers.

That reminds me of an incident last week (it must have been, there was sunlight).  I'd stopped a full car length behind a people carrier thing at a slow junction that was in the process of watering the ground behind it with its front washers.  Impatient driver behind me took objection to this, and proceeded to try an undertake in the left-turn lane.  Which worked about as well as you might expect, given the amount of distance to play with.  Meanwhile the sprinkling stopped and I edged forward, leaving them to the traditional Brummie show of appreciation from the left-turning cars behind.

It's one of those little things that make you realise how little brain power is being used in controlling vehicles on the road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 26 February, 2013, 09:13:19 pm
I wound up a London taxi driver by being between him and the bus immediately in front of me in the bus lane in semi grid locked traffic in London on Sunday evening. I refused to be right up the exhaust pipe of the bus to suit him, particularly since he was tailgating down Euston Road when I was following the bus at 20mph. Eventually got bored of listening to him beep his horn and skipped across two lanes of traffic and in front of the bus (and a clear bus lane) to leave him to his frustration.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 26 February, 2013, 11:02:26 pm
It was foggy on the ride home.

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8528/8510616325_5297902932_z.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davidmam/8510616325/)
frikkin' lasers on the ride home. (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davidmam/8510616325/) by davidmamartin (http://www.flickr.com/people/davidmam/), on Flickr
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 27 February, 2013, 11:42:01 am
Roundabout of death again, car goes to overtake on my right and is going straight on same as me, I shout "WTF are you doing?" passenger leans out and says "I'll effing knock you off next time!"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Northstar on 27 February, 2013, 05:14:02 pm
Passenger (possibly ex-driver) thinks he's driving - cuckoo.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 27 February, 2013, 06:40:17 pm
It happens about once a week, two lanes approaching, left for straight on, right for turn right, obviously. So I'm doing 20+ and can hear a vehicle approaching, it's in the right lane but wants to go straight on so slices dangerously close to my offside, I can see it in peripheral vision cos I'm on the drops. Pretty sure you shouldn't overtake on rbs anyway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 28 February, 2013, 09:08:59 am
Things are looking up! (Well, they were until I mentioned it).

This morning was too warm for my winter gloves.

Still a tad too chilly for the intermediate gloves but I survived
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 28 February, 2013, 12:52:25 pm
Quote from: fuzzy on 28 February, 2013, 09:08:59 am
This morning was too warm for my winter gloves.

Not here it wasn't. Back to both pairs of gloves and wishing I'd got another layer on!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 28 February, 2013, 06:41:35 pm
Just saw a couple of Police cyclists operating a radar gun, it did make me smile.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 28 February, 2013, 10:00:41 pm
Quote from: fuzzy on 28 February, 2013, 09:08:59 am
This morning was too warm for my winter gloves.

Yes, I'm wearing a pair of thin gloves under my mitts, but I suspect it would be approaching a little brisk with the mitts alone.  That's always  the trouble in the autumn and spring, there's a noticeable period where it's hard to get the clothing levels correct, because the weather oscillates between a mite chilly, and little bit warmer.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Littlesox on 28 February, 2013, 10:18:26 pm
On the commute on Monday, a cock young man in a car came screaming past me using his I-phone whilst driving.

On the commute on Wednesday I had to negotiate a road ahead closed sign, 2 fire engines, an ambulance and 3 Police cars because the same cock young man had parked very same car in a field having demolished a road sign, a hedge and from what I could see of it, most of his car as well.

http://www.shropshirestar.com/news/emergency-services/2013/02/27/road-shut-after-driver-in-north-shropshire-smash/

I didn't laugh............honest.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 28 February, 2013, 11:05:25 pm
Might be worth passing your intelligence to the boys in blue?  Then they might examine his phone records.....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 28 February, 2013, 11:40:44 pm
Would they not do that as a matter of course in crashes now ? I would think it well worht their time given the amount of abuse of that law, and also help to tilt public opinion of it to be dangerous.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: caerau on 01 March, 2013, 05:19:46 am
You'd be surprised at what they are capable of not doing.
I had three house burglaries in six months many years ago and not once did Columbo and team bother the neighbours for witness statements (for example)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 01 March, 2013, 08:39:06 am
Broke two spokes in the rear wheel yesterday. I thought the bike felt a bike slow, but assumed the rear wheel had pulled out of alignment.
Oh well, since the spokes are cheaper from Germany maybe this is the excuse I needed to buy a dynamo hub and a new lamp...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 01 March, 2013, 08:43:25 am
Quote from: Littlesox on 28 February, 2013, 10:18:26 pm
On the commute on Monday, a cock young man in a car came screaming past me using his I-phone whilst driving.

On the commute on Wednesday I had to negotiate a road ahead closed sign, 2 fire engines, an ambulance and 3 Police cars because the same cock young man had parked very same car in a field having demolished a road sign, a hedge and from what I could see of it, most of his car as well.

http://www.shropshirestar.com/news/emergency-services/2013/02/27/road-shut-after-driver-in-north-shropshire-smash/

I didn't laugh............honest.

Instant Slightly delayed Karma
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 01 March, 2013, 08:46:35 am
Quote from: Caerau on 01 March, 2013, 05:19:46 am
You'd be surprised at what they are capable of not doing.
I had three house burglaries in six months many years ago and not once did Columbo and team bother the neighbours for witness statements (for example)

Yes.  When someone fired an air rifle through our kitchen window several years ago, they spent a fair bit of time looking around our (small) garden for clues but seemed quite surprised when I suggested they might like to check out the balconies of the small block of flats overlooking it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 01 March, 2013, 07:18:47 pm
Just realised this week was a full house: five commutes.  Only the second time this year. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Littlesox on 01 March, 2013, 10:10:01 pm
Quote from: Ham on 28 February, 2013, 11:05:25 pm
Might be worth passing your intelligence to the boys in blue?  Then they might examine his phone records.....

Done on the day in question
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Swallow5 on 01 March, 2013, 11:28:38 pm
Followed a barn owl using the hedgerow at the edge of the road as cover to hunt in the fading light tonight - I can't have been more than 10 metres behind it at times. Simply magical and reminded me why I love commuting by bike (once I get onto the quiet lanes).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 02 March, 2013, 10:29:47 am
Actually yesterday's commute, which was onna bus. As we approached my stop the bus was behind a cyclist. Fairly narrow village street, no pavement on our side, the odd parked car on the other side. Myself and my randomly encountered on said bus neighbour were a bit perplexed when the driver beeped the cyclist. What had he done wrong? Where did the driver expect him to go? Then he pulled out alongside and there was some gesturing as he kept pace with the equally perplexed looking cyclist who then pulled into a driveway on the left. The bus stops, and the driver opens the door, and we half expect to witness a random rant.

"Sorry mate, but I thought you'd want to know. A fiver went flying out of your back pocket as you were going over the bridge back there, reckon it's landed on the pavement."

Made me smile.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 02 March, 2013, 10:43:41 am
Yay for nice intentioned bus drivers!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 02 March, 2013, 02:13:08 pm
Cool.

(It always amazes me that people can identify money without reading the numbers.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 04 March, 2013, 09:11:03 am
Today I discovered that the rear window of a Nissan Micra is not very strong.

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8095/8526706501_67a4849f1c_z.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davidmam/8526706501/)
the braking zone (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davidmam/8526706501/) by davidmamartin (http://www.flickr.com/people/davidmam/), on Flickr

Minor cuts and grazes. The hydraulic brake lever is wrecked, Bike shop assessing the forks and frame.

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8105/8526705019_63f2268b0a_z.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davidmam/8526705019/)
ouch (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davidmam/8526705019/) by davidmamartin (http://www.flickr.com/people/davidmam/), on Flickr

When you have an accident, have a witness behind who stops and gives his details, a trained first aider on hand, and be walking distance from the bike shop and work.


And now I will meander up to A&E to get them to look at it all properly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 04 March, 2013, 09:15:22 am
Ouch indeed  :(

What happened?

Day off work perhaps?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 04 March, 2013, 09:17:04 am

We'll have to wait to hear about the bike,  in the absence of that, you OK?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 04 March, 2013, 09:40:59 am
Sitting at a&e waiting for triage...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 04 March, 2013, 09:42:04 am
OUCH!

Make sure you get fully checked out, the bike too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 04 March, 2013, 09:45:46 am
And I forgot to say, I have learnt, for experience (though not as hurty as yours), that a Nissan Micra is one car that you should ALWAYS leave plenty of space for.

There is one I regualrly get caught behind on the way into town, their driving is so erratic that it is always safer just to get past and away!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 04 March, 2013, 10:08:50 am
Quote from: tiermat on 04 March, 2013, 09:45:46 am
And I forgot to say, I have learnt, for experience (though not as hurty as yours), that a Nissan Micra is one car that you should ALWAYS leave plenty of space for.
Usually because they're driven by either geriatrics or spotty little twats with the same level of road sense as a goldfish.

Get well soon, David.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 04 March, 2013, 10:12:46 am
That looks non-life-threatening but painful.

GWS.

Get shop to check frame and forks very very thoroughly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 March, 2013, 10:16:42 am
GWS David.  Glad you're still with us.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 04 March, 2013, 10:24:38 am
Ouchouchouch!

GWS (and hope bike is OK).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 04 March, 2013, 10:37:39 am
Quote from: interzen on 04 March, 2013, 10:08:50 am
Quote from: tiermat on 04 March, 2013, 09:45:46 am
And I forgot to say, I have learnt, for experience (though not as hurty as yours), that a Nissan Micra is one car that you should ALWAYS leave plenty of space for.
Usually because they're driven by either geriatrics or spotty little twats with the same level of road sense as a goldfish.

Get well soon, David.

Never mentioned it at the time, but had a spectacularly sensible overtake from a blue Nissan Micra last week. First, a bus driver feels he must overtake me, even though I'm doing traffic speeds and he's indicating for the stop in about 30 metres. OK, this is SOP for bus drivers in the suburbs, so I can't get too het up about it. So, he stops, and I go round him. About half-way, I hear the strained engine whine behind me, and then overtaking me overtaking the bus, is the blue Micra of shame. Thing was, there was traffic coming the other way. In her eagerness to overtake the cyclist, that fact seemed to have been elided from her sensory inputs. Anyway, I braked, and she ended up in front of me, wedged between oncoming traffic and the bus. I was stuck too. Eventually, the bus pulled away and freed us all. Driver did the thousand yard stare thing. I could only shake my head.

Even worse are the school mums dropping off their spawn, the ones who learned in a Micra and then transferred their ninja driving skills to a Cayenne or other overinflated fugly tank. And when I say transfer, I mean they simply continue to drive like they're in the Micra. You can almost see nearby bollards cringe when those reverse lights come on.

Chicks dig scars though. This is true. I once removed the entire roof of a Toyota by using my head like a giant human tin-opener. This is not advisable usage for the human head.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bodach on 04 March, 2013, 11:13:05 am
Ouch David, Get well soon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 04 March, 2013, 11:18:29 am
Back from A&E with appropriate sticky tape and glue. Cuts on nose and eye ridge, probably from my glasses. Larger cut on forehead held together by steristrips. And a small cut on the scalp. A wee bit of bruising, and a pedal scrape down the shin.

Bloodstains on my new cycling cap though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 04 March, 2013, 12:20:31 pm
Oooh nice one DM. Hope you don't have too much of a headache & the bike is ok!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 04 March, 2013, 12:23:54 pm
ouch David, i hope your injuries are only skin deep and will heal soon
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 04 March, 2013, 12:36:32 pm
+1.  Take care and GWS.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 04 March, 2013, 01:14:00 pm
Ugh!  Bad luck David.  Hope you and the bike are not too damaged.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 04 March, 2013, 01:32:27 pm
Ouch David, what happened? sudden stop, change of lanes, left hook or pulled out and not away quickly enough?

I hope the bike is not too badly damaged and that the weather reinforces the leason by raining through the hole where the glass used to be.  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 04 March, 2013, 01:34:19 pm
Turned left onto the road I was in, slowed down. I pulled out to pass and she cut across to the right to park. Unfortunately that was just where I was about to be.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 04 March, 2013, 01:59:17 pm
Glad you're not too badly hurt and have witnesses.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 04 March, 2013, 02:16:43 pm
Quote from: David Martin on 04 March, 2013, 01:34:19 pm
Turned left onto the road I was in, slowed down. I pulled out to pass and she cut across to the right to park. Unfortunately that was just where I was about to be.

So call that a combination of three of the factors I suggested  :o I take it there were no indicators in use.  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 04 March, 2013, 02:42:08 pm
She claimed she tried to use them but they seemed to 'double click' ??? The witness said no indicators.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 04 March, 2013, 02:48:37 pm
So admitting to driving an unroadworthy vehicle? I'd just say "sorry I forgot".

Hope the after effects are not too painful, DM.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 04 March, 2013, 03:08:14 pm
Quote from: David Martin on 04 March, 2013, 02:42:08 pm
She claimed she tried to use them but they seemed to 'double click' ??? The witness said no indicators.

some indicators blink 2-3 times automatically if you gently push the lever; if you push the lever further they will continue to blink until you manually return it to the neutral. maybe that's what she ment? not an excuse, anyway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 04 March, 2013, 03:10:02 pm
More likely the indicator cancellation ring in a position whereby it blocked the use of indicators.

Once again no excuse as it shows turning BEFORE use of indicators (and a lack of spacial awareness and use of mirrors)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 04 March, 2013, 03:25:51 pm
And the H-word wasn't even mentioned at A&E. Maybe I just look too frightening :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 04 March, 2013, 03:52:00 pm
Quote from: David Martin on 04 March, 2013, 03:25:51 pm
And the H-word wasn't even mentioned at A&E.
*falls off chair in amazement*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 04 March, 2013, 03:52:56 pm
Quote from: tiermat on 04 March, 2013, 03:10:02 pm
More likely the indicator cancellation ring in a position whereby it blocked the use of indicators.

Once again no excuse as it shows turning BEFORE use of indicators (and a lack of spacial awareness and use of mirrors)

Also occurs on older cars like that if you don't quite push the lever far enough to click into position and it just springs back to the off position.

GWS DM and I hope you don't feel too stiff/achy in the morning
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 04 March, 2013, 04:09:51 pm
Quote from: Mrs Pingu on 04 March, 2013, 03:52:00 pm
Quote from: David Martin on 04 March, 2013, 03:25:51 pm
And the H-word wasn't even mentioned at A&E.
*falls off chair in amazement*
I hope you were wearing appropriate PPE. In fact very few questions were asked. It isn't relevant. You have an injury, they treat it. I'm not aware of any difference in treatemnt for lacerations depending on whether or not you were wearing a lump of polystyrene on your head.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 04 March, 2013, 05:30:47 pm
I suppose it depends on how much polystyrene they have to wash out of the wound...


GWS.  I'll add Micras to the list (I've always considered them to be Mostly Harmless, except when driven by somebody in a hat).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 04 March, 2013, 08:18:34 pm
Ouch. Just caught up on this. Nasty spill there. Glad you're mostly okay and I hope you aren't too stiff tomorrow.

Take care of yourself and heal well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 04 March, 2013, 08:53:04 pm
First day back on the bike post flu.  Having a lovely time until Mrs impatient in a Nissan Almera rears her ugly head  Started off with beeping a la Mr Toad, then she pulls along side and utters the most chilling words in the English language " I'm a cyclist as well and.....". Why is it when they say that you know you have to brace yourself for a jetstream of utter shite?

I have to 'ride to the side' apparently  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 04 March, 2013, 09:59:53 pm
Ouchy! Heal well, David.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 05 March, 2013, 09:04:29 am
Bloody cold ride in this morning.  -4 most of the way.  Warming up with coffee now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bodach on 05 March, 2013, 10:06:53 am
  Cycled down to the village a mile away on our singletrack road to collect my paper today. Didn't encounter the moton who has tried to run me off the road the last few days. This motivated me to write to the Herald about this as they ran  a piece yesterday about a campaign to reduce 'accidents' on rural roads and another piece about promoting Scotland as one of the world's best cycling destinations. Letter published today with much editing but better than nought. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dave_C on 05 March, 2013, 11:45:27 am
Lovely cycle in this morning. I ride over the Forth Road Bridge and then cut through Dalmeny estate, a tranquil quiet, wildlife filled estate where the grass was frosty and the tracks were dry and frozen also. Out the other side I crossed the Cramond Bridge and turned left down to Cramond. From there I cycled along the promomnade, with little or no one for most of the way. Its 4 lane wide tarmac prom to Granton with no traffic and few peds and dogs early in the morning. The sea to my left was mirror still with harr blocking my view to Fife, but still warmed with blue skies and early morning sun. A quiet run to the Trinity disused rail path at Trinity Crescent, then up on Rodney St, Bellevue and Broughton St to work.

I'm looking forward to the reverse journey this evening!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 05 March, 2013, 06:50:46 pm
Cracked the 15mph average speed barrier for the slightly entended commute home, and didn't even have a tailwind assisting me.

Fist time in a long time I've done it that quick (well quick for me).  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: caerau on 05 March, 2013, 07:52:39 pm
I managed a 14 mph average this morning with two category 4 climbs in there over 36 miles (a very 'scenic' commute  -really it should be 5 miles).  Very pleased with that but I'm not sure my legs agree this evening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: nikki on 05 March, 2013, 08:03:08 pm
Some kindly soul has tried to improve the ditch-like construction of this bit of cyclepath by filling it with rubble. Which is nice.

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8513/8532363096_628721fd52.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/nikki_pugh/8532363096/)

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8092/8531254031_f1f26863cc.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/nikki_pugh/8531254031/)

Also some reflective surfaces to make it look pretty and maximise the available light.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andrewc on 05 March, 2013, 09:13:12 pm
Quote from: nikki on 05 March, 2013, 08:03:08 pm
Some kindly soul has tried to improve the ditch-like construction of this bit of cyclepath by filling it with rubble. Which is nice.

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8513/8532363096_628721fd52.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/nikki_pugh/8532363096/)

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8092/8531254031_f1f26863cc.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/nikki_pugh/8531254031/)

Also some reflective surfaces to make it look pretty and maximise the available light.

You philistine! That's not a cycle path, it's an urban art installation....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: nikki on 05 March, 2013, 09:43:03 pm
Quote from: andrewc on 05 March, 2013, 09:13:12 pm
You philistine! That's not a cycle path, it's an urban art installation....

 :)

Someone's been creative, certainly: got talking to a man walking home from work and neither of us could see where it had been broken off from!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 06 March, 2013, 12:27:14 am
Incredibly mild weather today, considering what it was like a week or two back.  I didn't dump enough of my clothes this morning, when it was sunny out, and was fairly heavily sweating by about a third of the way into work.

Leaving fairly late this evening (I've been home half an hour or so), it was actually a very pleasant cycle home, at an almost perfect temperature for my clothes (around 7°C).  So, I'm now down to 3/4 length tights, a long sleeved YACF jersey, thin Decathlon el-cheapo fleece, and mitts.  I don't expect these conditions to last very long, but it's nice whilst they do. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 06 March, 2013, 07:19:31 am
The smell of cut lawns when I rode home yesterday. Nice but it does mean it's time for the hayfever tablets and eye drops  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 06 March, 2013, 08:36:03 am
Rain on its way. I guess that means a farewell to the slight taste of salt from a fortnight's worth gritting which has been ground down to a fine powder.  Except for the strip about two foot out from the gutter, which resembles a beach.  First non-Paramo jacket morning for a long time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 06 March, 2013, 09:29:37 am
I rode to work.

This is notable because:
A) I haven't ridden my ribble for probably 8 months
B) I haven't managed a ride to or from work in less than 1hr45min since before Christmas.
C) It took me 1hr 35min
D) I didn't feel half-dead afterwards.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 06 March, 2013, 02:13:48 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 06 March, 2013, 09:29:37 am
I rode to work.

This is notable because:
A) I haven't ridden my ribble for probably 8 months
B) I haven't managed a ride to or from work in less than 1hr45min since before Christmas.
C) It took me 1hr 35min
D) I didn't feel half-dead afterwards.

Hurrah! It's nice to see the end of the tunnel, isn't it? :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 06 March, 2013, 04:37:02 pm
I'm taking bus home and riding home tomorrow. Going to build up again gradually.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 March, 2013, 04:50:53 pm
Sensible.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 06 March, 2013, 09:24:13 pm
I was in the car today but I did notice at the bottom of 30mph worth of hill that there is a new large pothole (bigger than a dinner plate and at least half an inch deep) not far from the line I usually take, that wasn't there yesterday when I cycled down.

Here's hoping I remember about it early enough on the cycle home tomorrow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 06 March, 2013, 09:41:57 pm
5h1te day :-[
I lose a crown from a back tooth which has been failing anyway. So a car ride in and a half day off as I've got a seat reserved at the dentist. Gf commuted in and had an off turning right so her Rapha vis vest is nicely scuffed up. Dentist removes whats left of my tooth tho` I was convinced the roots were attached to my feet. Gf arrives home late because turning right at a crossroads the traffic light goes red but the van driver behind her keeps going so it`s a low speed\impact off. Apparently he was apologetic!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 07 March, 2013, 08:44:06 am
Happy new bike storage.
(http://i952.photobucket.com/albums/ae7/fboab/20130307_075742.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 March, 2013, 09:12:24 am
When I lived in Shiregreen, I kept my bike in an outside bog.  It amused me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 07 March, 2013, 09:21:05 am
Is that it?
Three days of summer Bianchi, and today it's back on the fixer with mdgrds?
Funny how a bit of mist and murk can decimate the number of cyclists on the roads.
Lovely smell of damp, rotting vegetation as I made my way up the Lea Valley.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 07 March, 2013, 09:39:25 am
Quote from: Jurek on 07 March, 2013, 09:21:05 am
Is that it?
Three days of summer Bianchi, and today it's back on the fixer with mdgrds?
Funny how a bit of mist and murk can decimate the number of cyclists on the roads. ...

It's still quite mild, if a little damper, which works for my definition of spring and summer, which is that the rain is warmer than during the winter.

Whilst it's good to see more cyclists on the road, a lot of them don't have an awful lot of road sense.  One of them came extremely close to taking me out yesterday, near Narbonne Avenue, crossing the traffic lights onto Clapham Common (https://maps.google.co.uk/?ll=51.456049,-0.144172&spn=0.004573,0.009398&t=m&z=16&layer=c&cbll=51.456049,-0.144172&panoid=WzWfQ1FBoIU9GKSx-1-LeA&cbp=12,306.3,,0,-4.43).  An amazing number of cyclists seem to think that these lights are optional, when they're cycling across the head of the T junction, which is of course a cross roads for cyclists.  Yesterday was the closest I've come to an actual collision on there, skidding the bike to a stop a foot or so away from the idiot.

Even though it's wetter, in some ways that makes it a more relaxing ride, and there's more space to lock up my bike in the bikestore at work!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 07 March, 2013, 09:42:22 am
Last night I got caught in a shower - it definitely had that smell of summery rain about it.
It wasn't unpleasant  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 07 March, 2013, 09:56:04 am
Quote from: Jurek on 07 March, 2013, 09:21:05 am
Is that it?
Three days of summer Bianchi, and today it's back on the fixer with mdgrds?
Funny how a bit of mist and murk can decimate the number of cyclists on the roads.
Lovely smell of damp, rotting vegetation as I made my way up the Lea Valley.

<Kilgore>
It's the smell of Victory.
</Kilgore>

For me some fixie goodness, nipping past the queueueue caused by some temporary traffic lights (said queueueue was 1.5km long last night. It felt good).  And that feeling of "bah! another poxy day in the office" seems to magically vanish when I spy children in fancy dress going to school.  Today's offering was a Small Girl in full on firefighter kit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 07 March, 2013, 10:26:13 am
World Book Day
Go to school dressed as a character from your favourite book.
One of my friends has had to make furry feet for her hobbit-mad son!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 07 March, 2013, 10:53:47 am
Stopped by the bike shop to pick up the quote following Monday's off. One new front brake, one disk wheel rim and wheel build.

Not too bad considering.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 March, 2013, 11:15:55 am
Could have been a lot worse. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 07 March, 2013, 11:22:52 am
At that level, getting recompense shouldn't be too difficult.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: diapsaon0 on 07 March, 2013, 11:41:25 am
Quote from: fboab on 07 March, 2013, 08:44:06 am
Happy new bike storage.
(http://i952.photobucket.com/albums/ae7/fboab/20130307_075742.jpg)


Don't get bogged down  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 07 March, 2013, 01:00:16 pm
Quote from: SteveC on 07 March, 2013, 10:26:13 am
World Book Day
Go to school dressed as a character from your favourite book.

I didn't know that that, but nevertheless I've been Ratty all day.

On this morning's commute: Frogs!  Lots of little ones.  I had to thread my way through them at one point.  The first rain in 2-3 weeks must have brought them out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 07 March, 2013, 01:06:09 pm
Two days ago the bracket holding my B&M IQ Cyo (Not theirs, a little extension bracket I fettled last year) snapped.  So I have to take the train home to minimise the riding after sunset. I have no time to make a new one this weekend or the next. I am not going to work, I am skiing instead. Hopefully it will be light enough to not need a light when I return.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 March, 2013, 02:29:46 pm
I managed to ride a whole kilometre today!  Up to the station to pay for a long wait watching an 'information' board full of fiction even Jeffrey Archer would have blushed to produce, then home again. 

I returned to the station on foot later when Southern pretended they weren't cancelling trains.  But they were, so I had a circuitous route to work, and missed my lunchtime meeting.  Getting home will probably be chaos (again). :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: peterc on 07 March, 2013, 10:44:56 pm
On Tuesday I found a Willsden CC cycling cap, in Old Basing in North hants, if anyone knows anyone that lost one, a PM would be good. I've also contacted them through there website, but just in case someone here knows.

I will endeavor to wash it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 08 March, 2013, 12:35:04 pm
First commute of the year without the winter jacket  :thumbsup: not that it's gonna last long  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 March, 2013, 01:59:58 pm
My knees hurt when I got to work this morning.  That's unusual.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 08 March, 2013, 07:19:55 pm
Supermarket van pulled out on me on way home, very very close. But he apologised immediately and then once past pulled into a layby further up to apologise again. Had a chat and went our separate ways (well he was going to stop for a cig as a bit shaken) and I'm home now with a sugary tea.

Close one though  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 March, 2013, 07:32:50 pm
Got home. 

One.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 08 March, 2013, 07:41:25 pm
Quote from: clarion on 08 March, 2013, 07:32:50 pm
Got home. 

One.

Oh yes.

 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 08 March, 2013, 08:23:38 pm
The strawberry line tunnel is open again. I went that way this morning as I had a heavier load than usual carrying a laptop and some shoes. It made my pompino filthy though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 08 March, 2013, 10:19:38 pm
Quote from: simonp on 08 March, 2013, 08:23:38 pm
The strawberry line tunnel is open again. I went that way this morning as I had a heavier load than usual carrying a laptop and some shoes. It made my pompino filthy though.

Your Pompino wasn't exactly clean to begin with  ;)
It's very good news the tunnel and the gorge are now open again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 08 March, 2013, 10:27:57 pm
Got soaked, the first rain for ages, will wash the salt and grit away I suppose.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 08 March, 2013, 10:33:03 pm
Using that section of strawberry line vs up to A371, A38, A371 through winscombe and then to Sandford saves a whole 200m of distance and is slower and cakes me and the bike in mud. I think I prefer the road. Coming back I think the risk of passing Badger Crash Bench in the dark is higher than the road. Apart from when some moron's dog lunges at me from the pavement.

Now that the gorge is open I plan to get some hill repeats in. May be wanting to borrow back my PowerTap.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 08 March, 2013, 10:35:34 pm
Quote from: simonp on 08 March, 2013, 10:33:03 pm
Now that the gorge is open I plan to get some hill repeats in.

Do you get a good echo when you belch while riding up the Gorge?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 11 March, 2013, 08:27:31 am
About 6.30am, quite heavy snow started to swirl down in SouthEast London (or my bit of it at least).  But it didn't last long.  No birds singing, quite a change from last week. Dull, freezing and no other cyclists. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 March, 2013, 09:23:23 am
I noticed snow swirling past the bathroom window as I was shaving.  But it didn't seem to be settling much, so I set off to work.  It was horrendously windy, and I sought a sheltered route (the Wandle Trail).  I've never seen the Embankment cyclists travelling so slowly ;D

An hour and a half to get to work.  Cold now. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 11 March, 2013, 09:47:13 am
Well, that was a challenge after the balmy rides of last week.

My big toes hurt because of the cold.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 11 March, 2013, 10:08:57 am
Bit like jane:
Quote from: jane on 11 March, 2013, 08:27:31 am
About 6.30am, quite heavy snow started to swirl down in SouthEast London West Suffolk (or my bit of it at least).  But it didn't last long. It's still at it, intermittently. No birds singing, quite a change from last week. Dull Brisk, freezing and no other cyclists.

I'm still cold.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 11 March, 2013, 10:16:50 am
Bloody cold and windy on the ride in this morning. Looking out the window it appears to be snowing quite hard. I'm glad I've been too lazy to take off the winter tyres...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 11 March, 2013, 10:19:06 am
Return trip to Frimley Park for Physiotherapy this morning. 30 minutes with a glorious tail wind to the Hospital, cold but good riding. Appointment finished early enough that I could either stand waiting 30 minutes on the platform at Frimley and then make a quick connection at Ascot or ride home and get the same train from Sunningdale with 10 minutes to spare.

Soon learnt how strong the tailwind had been when I had to turn round and ride back into it.  :facepalm:

ETA this is the most riding I have done in weeks, and it was only just over an hour. Thighs are now pleasantly sore.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 11 March, 2013, 10:38:43 am
with a nice tailwind it wasn't too cold to ride in; the ride home might be quite different!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 11 March, 2013, 10:47:15 am
Bracing!

Intrigued to see several sets of bare legs and one woman riding along in short sleeves.

Very pleased to see that fewer cyclists than I would have expected had been deterred by the cold.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 11 March, 2013, 12:07:53 pm
Saw 2 blokes with bare knees on bikes this morning, too tough for this little black duck!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: caerau on 11 March, 2013, 12:20:22 pm
I did that this morning as I could find no tights to put on.  This was a mistake, I should have looked harder - it was  coooooooold!  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 11 March, 2013, 12:26:58 pm
Quote from: fboab on 11 March, 2013, 10:08:57 am
Bit like jane:
Quote from: jane on 11 March, 2013, 08:27:31 am
About 6.30am, quite heavy snow started to swirl down in SouthEast London West Suffolk (or my bit of it at least).  But it didn't last long. It's still at it, intermittently. No birds singing, quite a change from last week. Dull Brisk, freezing and no other cyclists.

I'm still cold.
I spoke too soon- it's been snowing off and on all morning.  I have just come in from the playground where I have been teaching children how to catch snowflakes on their tongues.  At least running around with a bunch of under 11's keeps one warm.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dora on 11 March, 2013, 01:36:54 pm
On the commute today I realised I picked the wrong day to start commuting by bike again.   I also realised that skinny jeans when paired with cycling clothes make me look like a t_______.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 11 March, 2013, 07:07:56 pm
What an excellent ride home that was!
Fourteen or so miles with the wind at my back for most of it :thumbsup:
Effortless.
I emerged from the lift shaft on the southern side of Greenwich foot tunnel to witness a deep howling noise that I don't think I've ever heard before.
'Twas the wind playing with the miles of rigging on the Cutty Sark  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 11 March, 2013, 07:27:35 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 11 March, 2013, 07:07:56 pm
What an excellent ride home that was!
Fourteen or so miles with the wind at my back for most of it :thumbsup:
Effortless.
I emerged from the lift shaft on the southern side of Greenwich foot tunnel to witness a deep howling noise that I don't think I've ever heard before.
'Twas the wind playing with the miles of rigging on the Cutty Sark  :o

Now imagine yourself, at sea, hearing that noise.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 11 March, 2013, 07:34:23 pm
Quote from: hatler on 11 March, 2013, 07:27:35 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 11 March, 2013, 07:07:56 pm
What an excellent ride home that was!
Fourteen or so miles with the wind at my back for most of it :thumbsup:
Effortless.
I emerged from the lift shaft on the southern side of Greenwich foot tunnel to witness a deep howling noise that I don't think I've ever heard before.
'Twas the wind playing with the miles of rigging on the Cutty Sark  :o

Now imagine yourself, at sea, hearing that noise.
I fear it would be accompanied by a noticeable degree of landlubber squealing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JBB on 11 March, 2013, 07:39:42 pm
Quote from: hatler on 11 March, 2013, 07:27:35 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 11 March, 2013, 07:07:56 pm
What an excellent ride home that was!
Fourteen or so miles with the wind at my back for most of it :thumbsup:
Effortless.
I emerged from the lift shaft on the southern side of Greenwich foot tunnel to witness a deep howling noise that I don't think I've ever heard before.
'Twas the wind playing with the miles of rigging on the Cutty Sark  :o

Now imagine yourself, at sea, hearing that noise.

It was force 6 gusting 8 this afternoon. I've been at sea on a yacht in over 50 knots (that's 9 gusting 10). You can't hear anything but a roaring sound. Shouting is useless; mime works best.
I drove in this morning wimp that I am!

Julia
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 11 March, 2013, 07:46:49 pm
I'm not sure arranging a meeting at 9am this particularly Monday morning was my best idea. Even with ski-mitts my hands were baltic by the time I rolled into the office. I seemed to managed enough layers to be marginally warm though the wind cut right through. Tailwinds proved elusive, I got a nice push through Burgess Park, but everywhere else I had the sensation of the wind carefully positioning itself to blast right at me. Arrived home mid-afternoon looking like a snowman after passing through a flurry.

I did see the cyclists in shorts too. But worse, the lack of gloves. My fingers were howling, I'm not sure how the hell you can cycling in this weather with bare hands.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 March, 2013, 07:51:36 pm
A helpful bit of tailwind on the way home meant I could kid myself I was riding ok.  Mind you, in failing.to keep up with a fast lad up to Brixton, I did drop everyone else :)

Made a diversion to drop off a small package, then meandered home by general sense of direction through unknown streets and across a couple of commons.

Thoroughly cold when I got home, but glad to have done it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 11 March, 2013, 08:26:31 pm
2h25 to cover 16 miles home, and that was with the wind behind me! Thankfully a tailwind or seeing where I was going would have been impossible. However trying to speed up meant it all suddenly going a bit sideways so slow and steady won the race.

Had decided it wouldn't snow much so left the spikes for my shoes at home, nearly proved a very silly choice but I kept upright albeit doing the splits slightly at one point.

My hands, despite silk liners and winter gloves were nearly too cold to unlock the front door when I got home.

My prize? Well I get to do it all over again tomorrow :s
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 11 March, 2013, 09:15:17 pm
Looked out of the window and saw snowy goodness. Toyed with the idea of refitting spiky tyres to the MTB, but didn't. Rode the fixer in, against a bastard headwind. Cold hands.

Rode home with a lovely tailwind and more snow. Stopped at a friend's halfway home for coffee anna chat, then out into the, now colder, night. Going well, I thought, nice tail wind, slow moving cars. Then, BANG, down on the deck, just near Steph's place.  The previously melted-by-cars snow had refrozen into slipperyness.  Thankfully no damage to my lovely Howies jacket, nor any other clothing. Elbow and knee a bit sore. Apart from losing the mudguard stay caps, dislodging the rear mudguard and losing a bar end cap no damage to the bike either. Pushed it to Schlumberger gateway and caught the train home from Gatwick.

Found small hole in my knee and elbow when I was in the warm and able to disrobe.

Tonight I shall be fitting spiky tyres.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 12 March, 2013, 03:43:13 am
Got home yesterday morning as the snow was starting to settle. Shortly after my arrival, the wind picked up and the morning became a bit blizzardettesque. Got up early for my last night shift, and it was vicious out. Spent an hour fettling the MTB by the light of a headtorch with snow blasting up my jacksie (bloody good job I didn't have a skirt on) through the open shed door, and then an interesting ride. The snow had converted the road into hardpack separated by crud, and the footpaths were fluffy fresh.
Once through Tim's aforementioned gateway the fluffy stuff on the road turned into hardpack again, so it was a slithery ride for two or three hundred yards. Loads of colleagues either not in or stuck on the road. Three-quarter length shorts on; should have dug out some longs or put some winter tights on. Shins hurt..... will ride back by Riverside tomorroqw and get some supplies in the town centre. Looked out at 0300, and it was still horizontal snow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 12 March, 2013, 07:19:30 am
I can hear the wind outside.

I think this morning, I might take gears.

Yeah, I know. Wuss.  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 March, 2013, 08:54:29 am
I took gears.

Very slowly.

Breathing was...interesting
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 12 March, 2013, 09:24:22 am
Well, I could have cycled in, but given that: it would only be at walking-speed anyway, and the huge disparity in the chance of of my falling like the proverbial sack of potatoes from my bike, as opposed to me staying perfectly upright on two feet walking in, for the same amount of time taken, was a no-brainer! I can cycle another day.

Sensibly dressed; long-johns, long socks, hat, gloves. Sorted.

Vehicles abandoned will-nilly on my short route to work. Last evening, cycling cautiously home witnessing the slow ballet of cars sliding with wheels locked down Preston Drove, I was breaking out in sweat on their behalf. To be fair people were driving sensibly, but it doesn't take much for collisions to occur. Fortunately they are at low speed. The volumes of vehicles will only make the likelihood of it happening that much greater. I guess people imaging if one stretch of road was/is manageable, then the next 100 yards is as well. Au contraire.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 12 March, 2013, 09:53:06 am
Rode in in the buff today, which was a mistake.  Definitely a 2 buff day.

Snow was settlingl, but so lightly that if a car drove past it swirled, winnowed and eddied away in pretty patterns.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 12 March, 2013, 10:25:08 am
One day someone will use SCIENCE to work out how to put a buff/scarf/balaclava over the mouth and nose and not fog up glasses instantly.

I tried one of the wrap round bandit type scarves with a little air hole at the mouth but it wasn't any better.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 12 March, 2013, 12:38:17 pm
I could have bottled it and driven home after work yesterday and, tbh, I gave it serious consideration. I opted to ride however, just making sure to put my overshoes on to protect my toes. I took the shorter route home as I needed to continue my demolition work on the garden wall when I got home. The wind was in my face most of the way home, which meant that it had siezed up by the time I finished my ride ;D

This mornings ride in was accomplished with another layer. My outie had become a stubby, almost an innie by the time I got to the shower.

Have to go elsewhere straight off tomorrow so will be driving tonight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 12 March, 2013, 01:01:14 pm
Rode the SNO bike in today. Bloody hell, it's hard work. Or I'm unfit. Or both.  I'll blame the headwind (and look forward to the tailwind this afternoon).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 12 March, 2013, 01:07:02 pm
Quote from: SJSBrompton on 12 March, 2013, 10:25:08 am
One day someone will use SCIENCE to work out how to put a buff/scarf/balaclava over the mouth and nose and not fog up glasses instantly.

Ski goggles, I think.  I used to have some, back in the days when I had a working knee and before I needed glasses...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 12 March, 2013, 01:31:34 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 12 March, 2013, 01:01:14 pm
Rode the SNO bike in today. Bloody hell, it's hard work. Or I'm unfit. Or both.  I'll blame the headwind (and look forward to the tailwind this afternoon).

Someone has more faith in GitWeather than me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 12 March, 2013, 01:36:13 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 11 March, 2013, 10:47:15 am
Bracing!

Intrigued to see several sets of bare legs and one woman riding along in short sleeves.

Very pleased to see that fewer cyclists than I would have expected had been deterred by the cold.

I just got back from walking down to Victoria station to grab a sandwich (Brompton is locked in office cupboard and I have changed into a skirt and heels).  I was still wearing my padded Gore jacket and scarf, gloves etc though.

As I turned to go up the steps to the office, part way down Grosvenor Place, a guy came flying past wth a t-shirt and shorts on.  I mean short shorts - the sort that Seb Coe used to wear back in the 80s, with the binding at the edge and the curved slit in the sides.

You could even see the bottom of his bum cheeks.  Surprisingly, they weren't blue.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 12 March, 2013, 02:13:26 pm
Coming home this morning was nasty. The first part was over cycle paths, and there was an odd crunching on what I can only describe as 'mini wind slab' crusty snow. Then onto the side roads, and some walking where the cars had left slippy-slippy patches of hardpacked clag. The main roads were gritted, which left secondary full of crud. Cue lots of impatient drivers behind me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 12 March, 2013, 02:16:46 pm
Ahhhh - 70's-tastic. Grumble in t'hedgerow ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 12 March, 2013, 02:19:16 pm
It is a lot warmer in central London than I expected. Bit hot cycling amazingly.

The wind is still brutal, but the sunshine is quite nice!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 12 March, 2013, 04:16:16 pm
Quote from: clarion on 12 March, 2013, 08:54:29 am
... Breathing was...interesting

Since I was cycling almost directly against a quite strong wind, occasionally the Venturi effect seemed to suck the air from my mouth, making breathing, as you say, interesting.

It was a bit of a drag cycling against that on the way in, but with a bit of luck the homeward commute should be easier.

As marcusjb said, it wasn't too bad from a heat point of view.  I'm just wearing a thin pair of gloves under some mitts, and not that much layering otherwise either.  London City airport is reporting a balmy 4°C at the moment, so it should be a quite comfortable return journey.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 12 March, 2013, 04:49:23 pm
Working from home, so I took the 2 mile or so ride to the pool. Northbound down a very straight street into a solid unrelenting headwind. I can say that was the toughest ride to the pool ever. Not only did it suck the air out of me every time I tried to breath, it made my eyes stream tears like a busted fire hydrant.

(On the subject of short shorts, when I arrived at the pool there was a young lady outside keeping her friend's kid warm with a stream of B&H's finest warm cigarette fug wearing what were possibly the shortest pair of short shorts ever – and I've worked with a German, a nation that would win the short shorts Olympics gold every time. I mean, we're almost crossing the line into bikini bottoms. I don't think they'd be appropriate for any weather condition, and the last time I saw legs that colour they belonged to the corpse I was dissecting. I must be getting old when I now see an excess of exposed female skin, I'm starting to think less 'whoah' and more 'by god she must be cold'.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 12 March, 2013, 06:33:17 pm
A week ago I was in shirtsleeves, today was a very dry, Polish cold and the scarf was back on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 12 March, 2013, 06:50:25 pm
Epic 2h50 (for a mere 16 miles) journey into work today including dragging the bike for half a mile through and over chest deep snowdrifts!

Dry road run home (bar a couple sections still snowy and requiring walking) meant I was home in 1h30, which for that bike with those tyres is about average. And that includes stopping for ten minutes to try and help a chap get his car off a snowbank.

Apparently he started daydreaming and not noticed it. Never mind the fact that to get to that bit of road he'd have had to purposefully go round the cones and the road closed signs  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 12 March, 2013, 07:42:45 pm
Quote from: Nuncio on 12 March, 2013, 09:53:06 am
Rode in in the buff today, which was a mistake.

Probably fortunate that you didn't get either arrested for indecent exposure or sectioned for attempting self-harm
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 12 March, 2013, 07:58:23 pm
Quote from: TimO on 12 March, 2013, 04:16:16 pm
Quote from: clarion on 12 March, 2013, 08:54:29 am
... Breathing was...interesting

Since I was cycling almost directly against a quite strong wind, occasionally the Venturi effect seemed to suck the air from my mouth, making breathing, as you say, interesting.

It was a bit of a drag cycling against that on the way in, but with a bit of luck the homeward commute should be easier.

As marcusjb said, it wasn't too bad from a heat point of view.  I'm just wearing a thin pair of gloves under some mitts, and not that much layering otherwise either.  London City airport is reporting a balmy 4°C at the moment, so it should be a quite comfortable return journey.

On such occasions if you turn your mouth at 90° to the airflow and form your lips into as perfect an 'O' as you can manage, with a little buccal manipulation it is possible to achieve a sound effect similar to the one when you blow across the top of a beer bottle.
Wide mouthed frogs need not apply.
DAHIKT
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 12 March, 2013, 09:41:55 pm
Quote
inaudible grumble grumble grumble D*ck Head grumble Light grumble grumble
Were the precise words that came out of the mouth of a fellow cyclist who was blinded by my cyo.
It happened I think because my bike plus light were angled up as I climbed a ramp near one of the locks (edit: along regent's canal). Unlucky for him. tough luck.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 12 March, 2013, 09:55:58 pm
*is on the side of the inaudible grumble grumble grumble D*ck Head grumble Light grumble grumbler*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 12 March, 2013, 10:20:03 pm
You need to go to the opposite side where it's not so bright.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 12 March, 2013, 10:36:28 pm
Oh, right Ok.   Errm.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 12 March, 2013, 11:32:20 pm
Hard not to get blinded occasionally on a towpath.  Cyos and their ilk do a much better than usual job of keeping the light at ground level, but with steep ramps, that sort of thing is going to happen.  And it's not reasonable to ride on a towpath without decent lights, on account of the high risk of Nothing Happening.  While I'd try not to dazzle people, I certainly wouldn't call someone a dickhead if their lights dazzled me in that situation.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 13 March, 2013, 09:11:33 am
Only when I got to work did I realise I'd left my rucksack at home. Doh. Cycle back. Get rucksack. Shout up at wife upstairs, "It's only me, forgot my bag." "How can you forget your bag!!?" she says.

A good point. That slightly lighter feeling, and a little more chill on the back gave me no idea.

Cycle back to work.

Must have covered at least 2 miles already today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 March, 2013, 09:47:48 am
Although still unwilling to go jousting with motons, I rejoined the crowds on CS7.  Although I was deliberately not pushing hard (Upper Tooting Road aside), I managed a 23kph average, which was surprising. 

I appreciated the headwind having dropped.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 March, 2013, 10:46:05 am
Hey, I just met you/ And this is crazy/ But that's your mirror/ So use it, maybe...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 13 March, 2013, 10:54:21 am
What are you going on about yer great lump? Either: lay off the medication or, up the dosage.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 13 March, 2013, 11:34:25 am
Yesterday was momentous for four reasons:

1) I rode the ribble (it's been in retirement waiting for new drivechain bits since summer 2011)
2) I rode to and from work in the same day.
3) It is daylight to and from work.
4) '3' means I can now see the size of the potholes

My *ukcing life, the potholes are deep now. I spotted 4 that were more than 4" deep and at least one that was over 6" deep! The really deep one is a trench-repair breakdown, so it's about 4" wide and so so deep.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 13 March, 2013, 01:57:20 pm
Unless it was a forumite in a car attracting my attention, a strange car appeared to be tooting at me, and the driver was gesticulating as if to say that I should be going underneath, not over the Bow flyover. That isn't and of itself interesting, neither is the fact that I very quickly overtook him in the jam coming up to the roadworks where they are frigging around with the bike path/cycle hire. Neither - ordinarily - would the fact that he didn't appear to have a VED disc, although I can't be sure about that. What I can be sure of was, 100 yards up the road the Police had set up an ANPR camera, and a little furhter on there were thousands of scurrying police, pretend police and VED people and many cars were being pulled over.

Carma, pure carma.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 13 March, 2013, 02:10:20 pm
 :thumbsup:

I assume the mis-spelling is deliberate? :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 13 March, 2013, 03:30:09 pm
Quote from: Ham on 13 March, 2013, 01:57:20 pm
... the Police had set up an ANPR camera, and a little furhter on there were thousands of scurrying police, pretend police and VED people ...

It must be the day for this, there was a similar arrangement on Ambleside Avenue (https://maps.google.co.uk/?ll=51.428166,-0.134486&spn=0.004783,0.009645&t=m&z=17&layer=c&cbll=51.428905,-0.135031&panoid=h4s8CclGP3CsWW-gA_NuoQ&cbp=12,351.47,,0,10.21), which now seems to be the favourite location for doing this, presumably because of all the building work going on around Streatham High Road (https://maps.google.co.uk/?ll=51.424393,-0.13042&spn=0.00867,0.038581&t=m&z=15&layer=c&cbll=51.424383,-0.130417&panoid=gr0fQ3Rta5_sk8QLOgawDg&cbp=11,315.72,,0,7.22), where they used to use the nice wide double width bus lanes to park up their transporter, and the mass of vehicles and police officers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Vince on 13 March, 2013, 03:41:26 pm
Stupid diversions for bicycles! Not only were all the streets herringbone bricked with a nice layer of snow on them, but you MISSED the sign on the critical junction!

Also forgot my computer glasses  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 13 March, 2013, 07:04:30 pm
Posting this here, because it was a boring utility ride plagued with idiot motorists, and therefore more like a commute than being out today.

It appears to be celebrate undertaking day in Birmingham.  The first while turning right at this (http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?q=quinton&hl=en&ll=52.459268,-2.00045&spn=0.002399,0.004039&hnear=Quinton,+West+Midlands,+United+Kingdom&gl=uk&t=m&z=18&layer=c&cbll=52.45903,-2.000437&panoid=7zYk4wd0inplx-0T9hWSjg&cbp=12,6.65,,0,-0.24) junction, out of the local horsemeat emporium, I was undertaken by a car while accelerating at a fairly glacial pace with a full trailer, slightly uphill.  That didn't really bother me, but according to Birmingham driving rules, if the car in front does something, that means that it's safe for you to do it too.  The second car therefore came alongside me as I was about to move over into the left lane of the dual carriageway to go down the hill.  I continued in the right lane, gave them The Look, and gestured for them to get on with it then, moving over once they were safely out of the way.

All of about 200m later, I'd just crossed a roundabout, and was huffing my way uphill in the right hand lane, to overtake a parked car (roughly the same position as the one in this image (http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?q=quinton&hl=en&ll=52.460756,-1.99183&spn=0.009649,0.016158&hnear=Quinton,+West+Midlands,+United+Kingdom&gl=uk&t=m&z=16&layer=c&cbll=52.460717,-1.991358&panoid=ryMe0a9f3LpF5U7ryb4BVw&cbp=12,84.86,,0,0)).  I heard a vehicle slow down behind me in a low gear.  Then came an urgent hooting.  As I looked round, a car was undertaking the van behind me, and braking sharply on discovering that the van was moving slowly for a reason.  At about the same moment, I cleared the parked car and was able to move left, allowing the car driver to rev past aggressively (it all being my fault, naturally).  I made an exasperated gesture, and got a somewhat cruder one by means of agreement from the van driver as he passed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 13 March, 2013, 07:19:22 pm
That seems rather a long way to go for your horse meat, Kim.  Do you not like any of your local emporiums?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 13 March, 2013, 07:35:17 pm
Quote from: Wunja on 13 March, 2013, 03:41:26 pm
Stupid diversions for bicycles! Not only were all the streets herringbone bricked with a nice layer of snow on them, but you MISSED the sign on the critical junction!


You mean they actually signed the diversion!! Here we just get the a fence across the path or cones and effectively make it up as you go along.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 13 March, 2013, 08:49:14 pm
Ooh, forgot about yesterday's belter.  I enter a roundabout, going for the second exit. Car enters at the first exit, judging, correctly, that I'm a way off and that it's a safe manouver. 2nd car follows first, in accordance with Kim's rule outlined above. Except by this time I'm a lot closer. I fire the F gun at max dB, do some nifty braking, and disaster is averted. The driver gives a wave and pootles off. ICBA to chase her down for re-education. 

She was, helpfully, exiting the local hospital, so at least I was in the right place for an over the bonnet moment.

Tonight, another roundabout, this time on the Crawley bypass. I, again, want the second exit. The first exit/entrance, IYSWIM, is a dual carriage way, with three lanes (1 left only, 2 straight on/right) pouring on to the roundabout.  As my usual tactic, I'm giving it plenty of beans, big hand signals, lots of eye contact with the waiting traffic. Van in lane 3 is stopped, as the driver has seen me. Ditto car in lane 1. Beemer driver in lane 2 comes hooning down, and presumably thinks what he can't see can't hurt him. Again the F gun is deployed, together with some Italian full back gesticulating. No contact, no injuries.

And then there was the prat in Horley. I'm approaching a T junction, which is signed no left turn (to prevent rat running I guess) The kerb is arranged to reinforce this - a kind of swept T, to use a plumbing analogy. Matey in the beat up Fiesta  sees the bike an must overtake, it's The Law, even though the T is 50m away. Then brakes hard and goes for the forbidden left turn, while I jink past him, calling his common sense into question. He then manages to get the car almost wedged between the kerb and a traffic island. I didn't stop to help.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 13 March, 2013, 10:24:06 pm
Quote from: TimO on 13 March, 2013, 03:30:09 pm
Quote from: Ham on 13 March, 2013, 01:57:20 pm
... the Police had set up an ANPR camera, and a little furhter on there were thousands of scurrying police, pretend police and VED people ...

It must be the day for this, there was a similar arrangement on Ambleside Avenue (https://maps.google.co.uk/?ll=51.428166,-0.134486&spn=0.004783,0.009645&t=m&z=17&layer=c&cbll=51.428905,-0.135031&panoid=h4s8CclGP3CsWW-gA_NuoQ&cbp=12,351.47,,0,10.21), which now seems to be the favourite location for doing this, presumably because of all the building work going on around Streatham High Road (https://maps.google.co.uk/?ll=51.424393,-0.13042&spn=0.00867,0.038581&t=m&z=15&layer=c&cbll=51.424383,-0.130417&panoid=gr0fQ3Rta5_sk8QLOgawDg&cbp=11,315.72,,0,7.22), where they used to use the nice wide double width bus lanes to park up their transporter, and the mass of vehicles and police officers.
Likewise on Argall Way (https://maps.google.co.uk/maps?hl=en&q=argan+oil&ie=UTF-8) this morning.
WVM seemed to be the focus of attention for those in uniform...
It's not the first time I have seen them 'targetting' at that location.
No bad thing, I suppose...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 13 March, 2013, 10:30:29 pm
Thanks for the link to all the places we can get Argan Oil, Jurek!

They were also on Commercial Road this morning (not that I've started cycling to my new job yet but I had a meeting there).

(nb I have not forgotten I owe you a tenner)

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 13 March, 2013, 10:55:50 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 13 March, 2013, 10:30:29 pm
Thanks for the link to all the places we can get Argan Oil, Jurek!

They were also on Commercial Road this morning (not that I've started cycling to my new job yet but I had a meeting there).

(nb I have not forgotten I owe you a tenner)

Not sure I know what's going on there with the link, Laura.
TBH, at this time of night I'm not sure I care  :D
Tenner?
Yes.
You owe me.
I hope your fingers remain toasty.
J
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 13 March, 2013, 11:22:58 pm
Quote from: Basil on 13 March, 2013, 07:19:22 pm
That seems rather a long way to go for your horse meat, Kim.  Do you not like any of your local emporiums?

Horsemeat can of course be obtained more locally at Aldi.

However I have an addiction to orange-juice-without-bits-in, and it's scientifically proven[1] that the Tesco own brand stuff is by far the nicest in that price range.  Subsequently, every 6 weeks or so I bulk buy 4-packs of the stuff, either by lugging a trailer up that hill, or by ordering a delivery on t'internet.

There are fringe benefits to a decent sized Tescos, like availability of a good selection of pre-chopped frozen veg (barakta doesn't like the Sainsbury's stuff), and bulk packs of non-disintegraty bogroll.


[1] By my friend Lizzie
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 14 March, 2013, 09:17:20 am
Two moronic drivers in my first three minutes from home.  Firstly, a woman in a Corsa who squeezed through a gap, almost knocking me off in her desperation to pass me and reach the inevitable queue fifty metres ahead.  Secondly, on a 20mph road, where I was doing 32kph (so possibly slightly under the speed limit), I checked behind, and put my arm out to turn right.  Then a B*W revved up and skimmed my fingertips in a lunatic overtake. >:(

There were the usual idiots along the rest of the way.  And Clapham was insanely clogged because someone had remodelled the front of his Audi TT on something unyielding.  Police were directing traffic down a side street.  I dismounted to walk past, but some stupid arses on bikes tried riding through.  I don't have much respect for the Met, 'tis true, but when an Officer dealing with an RTC asks me not to ride somewhere, I will comply.  You'd have to be a pillock not to.  There are a lot of pillocks riding bikes on CS7.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 14 March, 2013, 09:47:25 am
Quote from: clarion on 14 March, 2013, 09:17:20 am
There are a lot of pillocks riding bikes on CS7.

Too true, especially around Southwark Bridge
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 14 March, 2013, 09:52:46 am
launched and smashed my bike light going over the bumpy tarmac (second light in a weeks time, both have been serving for a few years up to now). two out of four batteries are still usable.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 14 March, 2013, 12:10:37 pm
Today was the first time I've seen something which I thought truly impossible in a car.

I was passed on my left by a car with a woman in the right hand seat applying hairspray.
I assumed (as you would and this was South Kensington) that the car must have been left hand drive and that she was the passenger.

I caught up with her a few minutes later. She was still teasing her hair out artistically and applying more hairspray, using the rear view mirror and driving.

Ladies and gentleman we have a winner, if you can find me a more blatant example of some drivers "just don't get it" then I'd be really shocked.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 14 March, 2013, 12:15:30 pm
Ahem…

Step away from the microphone Alexers old chum, and prepare to be even more shocked. Driving towards Brighton from Shoreham early one morning. Me: in the inside lane. A young filly: in the outside lane … applying lipstick while looking in the rearview mirror. She was possibly doing around 65-70mph.

One of those "Good God!" moments.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 14 March, 2013, 12:27:22 pm
Quote from: Riggers on 14 March, 2013, 12:15:30 pm
Ahem�

Step away from the microphone Alexers old chum, and prepare to be even more shocked. Driving towards Brighton from Shoreham early one morning. Me: in the inside lane. A young filly: in the outside lane � applying lipstick while looking in the rearview mirror. She was possibly doing around 65-70mph.

One of those "Good God!" moments.

Now that really is silly behaviour.  You can never get your lippy on properly when you're driving, she'll have needed to touch it up when she stopped anyway.  Driving stops you concentrating properly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 14 March, 2013, 12:30:12 pm
I have seen a man shaving while allegedly in control of a motor vehicle.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 14 March, 2013, 01:16:48 pm
I once caught up with a car coming down Anerley Hill (a nice steep descent). I could clearly see an iPad (or similar) balanced on the steering wheel and a movie or TV programme playing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Vince on 14 March, 2013, 01:25:50 pm
Mentioned on the Moton thread, last week I saw a guy reading from a spiral bound note book held on the steering wheel whilst driving at 100kph on the M-way. I did wonder if the spring would get embedded in his face if the airbag went off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 14 March, 2013, 01:40:21 pm
Texting, phoning, make-up, shaving, reading, angry birds (how does that work? but at least he was stationary), blow-job (yes really). I've seen all of that, but it was the sheer out of place, "surely this makes no sense at all"-ness of it that struck me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 14 March, 2013, 02:29:58 pm
Woman with phone in left hand to right ear, writing with right hand in a note book propped up on the steering wheel.  Thankfully not going too fast although I was longing for the car in front to stop suddenly

BUt Alex's is still the best
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 14 March, 2013, 03:42:46 pm
In my last job it was company policy that we took a chauffeured car (as opposed to any old taxi) to the airport. That worked fine for ages, then they changed chauffeur company on us. Three of us had the misfortune to be coming home in a car driven by the owner of the company - who spent the entire journey on the phone arranging what his other drivers should be doing, including checking appointments in his binder on the passenger seat (rather than the usual generic silver Merc he was driving a Grand Voyager).
Funnily enough they lost our business very shortly after that - helped by most of us regular travellers refusing point blank to get into his car again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 14 March, 2013, 08:12:02 pm
slightly extended commute today - 113km instead of usual 25. i managed to take half a day off, coinciding with lovely fresh weather in order to pick up a set of lovely wheels from our top man rafletcher - thanks! i wish more days were like today!
still buzzing from positive emotions overload :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 14 March, 2013, 09:34:40 pm
This morning, near Mile End on Burdett Road, got beeped at by a bus driver as he overtook me because I was riding 'in the middle of the road', when I pointed out politely that my purpose was to avoid being doored by the parked cars on my left he gracefully accepted my explaination, which felt really good.
Tonight on the way back in Leytonstone, on Hollybush Hill near the Greenman roundabout, the traffic police had stopped a guy on a fixie and were giving him a good bashing (metaphorically speaking) for riding through two sets of red lights, all recorded on their dash cam.... 5 minutes later, their car was behind me probably filming me waiting patiently at the next set of reds. Didn't dare to ask if they give away stickers for good behaviour, or maybe cyclist of the week?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 14 March, 2013, 09:56:45 pm
Quote from: Arno on 14 March, 2013, 09:34:40 pm
This morning, near Mile End on Burdett Road, got beeped at by a bus driver as he overtook me because I was riding 'in the middle of the road', when I pointed out politely that my purpose was to avoid being doored by the parked cars on my left he gracefully accepted my explaination, which felt really good.
Tonight on the way back in Leytonstone, on Hollybush Hill near the Greenman roundabout, the traffic police had stopped a guy on a fixie and were giving him a good bashing (metaphorically speaking) for riding through two sets of red lights, all recorded on their dash cam.... 5 minutes later, their car was behind me probably filming me waiting patiently at the next set of reds. Didn't dare to ask if they give away stickers for good behaviour, or maybe cyclist of the week?
Burdett Road?
I suspect our paths may cross - times, maybe not.
I'm there circa 08:10 / 08:20 northbound.
Mostly either on a gunmetal Bianchi with gears or a baby blue Pompino on mudguard days.
S'lonely being a salmon commuter  :'(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 15 March, 2013, 08:57:18 am
Mdgrds today.
And crocuses in Mile End park.
Thousands of them.
Nice :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 March, 2013, 09:07:02 am
It was indeed a day for mudguards, as I mentioned to 'Ray', who had his name on the back of his seatpost, and insisted on pushing in front of me (and across the line) at every red light so I got a faceful of his road spray until it was safe to overtake each time.

Mind you, I only had mud spotted on my face.  'Ray' looked like he'd shat himself Lemond + a bit.

But it was a good, fast ride in.  I'm not kidding myself: There was that rare beast they call the tailwind, but that wasn't very strong, and all cyclists benefited, including the ones I was passing.  Fastest ride since 9 November.  Happy with that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 15 March, 2013, 11:53:21 am
How many is that?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 March, 2013, 12:01:59 pm
Last night was five consecutive working days.  Tonight will complete a full house.

I almost feel like a cycle commuter again...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 15 March, 2013, 12:06:11 pm
Welcome back to tarmac and blue  paint
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 15 March, 2013, 12:11:35 pm
Quote from: clarion on 15 March, 2013, 12:01:59 pm
Last night was five consecutive working days.  Tonight will complete a full house.

I almost feel like a cycle commuter again...

 :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 March, 2013, 12:14:40 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 15 March, 2013, 12:06:11 pm
Welcome back to tarmac and blue  paint

Well, only blue round and about the potholes. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 15 March, 2013, 02:14:54 pm
Quote from: clarion on 15 March, 2013, 09:07:02 am
... There was that rare beast they call the tailwind ...

I noticed it last night, as a headwind. >:(

Ah well, it's mostly been a case of swings and roundabouts recently with the wind, I've just normally got more energy in the mornings, so can deal with a headwind then, more easily.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 March, 2013, 02:15:34 pm
Aye, I had a headwind last night, but I just pretended it wasn't happening. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: caerau on 15 March, 2013, 02:22:09 pm
Been having right knee trouble since last Saturday - worryingly since I have my first 300k audax coming up on the 23rd.  Been taking it very easy on the commute all week as a result.
Tried a full throttle slightly extended commute last night to test it out - no problems.  :thumbsup:

So I tried a not-full throttle but very extended and very hilly commute this morning as a second test ...

Now I've shafted my knee again  :(

Looks like a weekend off the bike then  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 15 March, 2013, 02:36:24 pm
I walked. Via the pharmacy to pick up some suitable drugs. I'll walk back via the bike shop to see if my bike has been repaired yet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 15 March, 2013, 05:11:33 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 14 March, 2013, 09:56:45 pm
Quote from: Arno on 14 March, 2013, 09:34:40 pm
This morning, near Mile End on Burdett Road, got beeped at by a bus driver as he overtook me because I was riding 'in the middle of the road', when I pointed out politely that my purpose was to avoid being doored by the parked cars on my left he gracefully accepted my explaination, which felt really good.
Tonight on the way back in Leytonstone, on Hollybush Hill near the Greenman roundabout, the traffic police had stopped a guy on a fixie and were giving him a good bashing (metaphorically speaking) for riding through two sets of red lights, all recorded on their dash cam.... 5 minutes later, their car was behind me probably filming me waiting patiently at the next set of reds. Didn't dare to ask if they give away stickers for good behaviour, or maybe cyclist of the week?
Burdett Road?
I suspect our paths may cross - times, maybe not.
I'm there circa 08:10 / 08:20 northbound.
Mostly either on a gunmetal Bianchi with gears or a baby blue Pompino on mudguard days.
S'lonely being a salmon commuter  :'(
am there either after 9 or around 7:40 depending on childcare duties   :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 15 March, 2013, 06:03:56 pm
Massive headwind up Peckham Rye on the way home.  Managed to heave my Friday body, exhausted after a day of Red nosing it with around 300 children all day.  Don't ask what that involves, it's too embarrassing/ revolting/exhausting to even talk about, let alone do. Now I am waiting for my hot, hot, deep, deep, deep bath to fill,  with a large glass of red wine sitting on the edge.  Friday night, here we come.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 15 March, 2013, 06:05:29 pm
Headwinds. Really, not cool. I wanted to whoosh home on the gift of a Friday tailwind. Instead I had to grind up Crystal Palace into a gusty headwind on a heavy bike loaded with two panniers full of what felt like depleted uranium (I should check). I may have uttered Bad Words.

(This was my misguided effort to avoid the winds across Peckham Rye, I thought I'd be protected by the lee of the larger hill. Pah.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 15 March, 2013, 06:43:51 pm
I felt old and knackered. 
I really should cut down on the beer.

Yeah.  Like that's going to happen.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 15 March, 2013, 08:20:24 pm
That. Ride. Home. Was. Very. Hard.

I didn't mind the wet (some of you on here would be forgiven for reading that and thinking that my account has been hacked) but the wind I did not like one bit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 15 March, 2013, 10:39:36 pm
Quote from: Caerau on 15 March, 2013, 02:22:09 pm
Been having right knee trouble since last Saturday - worryingly since I have my first 300k audax coming up on the 23rd.  Been taking it very easy on the commute all week as a result.
Tried a full throttle slightly extended commute last night to test it out - no problems.  :thumbsup:

So I tried a not-full throttle but very extended and very hilly commute this morning as a second test ...

Now I've shafted my knee again  :(

Looks like a weekend off the bike then  :(

If longer rides are flaring it up then take a really really close look at your bike set up. Position of knee over pedal and/or saddle height could be wrong and if it is no amount of resting will fix it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 March, 2013, 10:39:56 pm
Wind. Wind. Wind. Wind. Wind. Wind.

And rain.

And wind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 16 March, 2013, 02:08:15 am
Yes, annoyingly windy, far too hard work for the end of the week. :(

At least it was only very lightly spitting, barely enough to notice, and certainly not enough to cause any noticeable dampening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Vince on 16 March, 2013, 04:02:02 pm
Quote from: matthew on 13 March, 2013, 07:35:17 pm
Quote from: Wunja on 13 March, 2013, 03:41:26 pm
Stupid diversions for bicycles! Not only were all the streets herringbone bricked with a nice layer of snow on them, but you MISSED the sign on the critical junction!


You mean they actually signed the diversion!! Here we just get the a fence across the path or cones and effectively make it up as you go along.

(http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t140/VinceHall/2013-03-16145741_zpsd2a18f58.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 18 March, 2013, 08:09:12 am
Freezing Fog. At least my shiny new YACF buff kept my neck warm :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dora on 18 March, 2013, 08:25:27 am
There are two bikes in the rack on the train today. There are also now two crisp white shirts on hangers in there with them. Clever boy, you'll be easy to spot later!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 March, 2013, 08:39:57 am
Back on fixed.  Breathing still not great. Wind not fun, either.  Lots of red light jumping motor vehicles. Many fewer cyclists doing same.  Good ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 18 March, 2013, 08:43:34 am
I should have brought the bike.  :facepalm:

The train was terminated at Wokingham due to poor rail conditions blocking the line to Reading. Therefore I had to get a local bus to work.

Total delay >1 hour and so much for getting to work early.  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 18 March, 2013, 09:04:59 am
Breaking news: I cycled to work today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 March, 2013, 09:05:40 am
Well, that is very good news :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 18 March, 2013, 09:09:09 am
At 0600 it was tanking it down and I was knackered so I wimped out and arranged a lift home instead. By 0752 when Ileft the building the sky was blue and it was a lovely (if freezing cold) morning. Will I never learn?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 18 March, 2013, 09:18:47 am
Quote from: matthew on 18 March, 2013, 08:43:34 am
I should have brought the bike.  :facepalm:

The train was terminated at Wokingham due to poor rail conditions blocking the line to Reading. Therefore I had to get a local bus to work.

Total delay >1 hour and so much for getting to work early.  >:(

Folks further into London weren't terribly impressed either when 'icy conditions' came over the speaker, as we barely had to scrape the cars here.

Thankfully I had checked the trains before leaving the house, so was aware that the 07:05 from Feltham was cancelled, and was determined to get the 07:11, the slow train, which was still running (I usually get the 07:16).

When I got to the station, it was packed (as is usual when something happens to the 07:05), and the station was advising everyone to get on the 07:16, which was also running on time (semi fast). So only a few of us got on the 07:11.  I really didn't fancy playing sardines on the 07:16.

When I got off at Clapham Junction, Southern seemed to be suffering from the same thing in between Horsham and Three Bridges.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Vince on 18 March, 2013, 09:28:19 am
A nasty expensive rattling noise was coming from the car's engine this morning, so I took the train. :(

Also means I need to cycle to Cubs tonight and band practice tomorrow. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 18 March, 2013, 10:10:10 am
Quote from: Andrij on 18 March, 2013, 09:04:59 am
Breaking news: I cycled to work today.

I do hope nothing was broken in the process.....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 18 March, 2013, 10:21:02 am
Quote from: Ham on 18 March, 2013, 10:10:10 am
Quote from: Andrij on 18 March, 2013, 09:04:59 am
Breaking news: I cycled to work today.

I do hope nothing was broken in the process.....

Only a long streak of not cycling.  Don't think I managed to break any speed limits, but I wasn't trying.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 18 March, 2013, 12:35:43 pm
The Skerne has broken its banks, again, and the river path has flooded - again. OK, at Rockwell Marshes a certain amount of water is expected, but this is happening every month.

Still, it was worth getting wet feet for the sight of a lad, on his way to school, avoiding the floods by clambering along the railings above the river. I doubt it did him any good; it was even worse around the corner.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 18 March, 2013, 01:43:30 pm
A dog wanted me to throw its stick (I'd stopped as it was trotting towards me, then it put the stick down in front of my wheel).

Also, I have a little bit of knee pain after Saturday's 200k. And a sore back. But I also did a PB on the Stoke Park climb according to Strava.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: phantasmagoriana on 18 March, 2013, 06:58:58 pm
As I braked for a junction about half a mile from home tonight, I heard something snapping inside the front brake lever (ancient rapidfire 7-speed thing). It doesn't appear to work properly now. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 18 March, 2013, 07:03:39 pm
Took the bike I intend to do Mrs. Barakta's Kim's ride with this w/e to check that I'd set up it's new 'puter correctly.
Hmm.  0.04over. 
That'll do. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Marco Stefano on 18 March, 2013, 07:55:42 pm
Quite foggy this morning, down to 50m visibility in places. 1 in 5 cars (yes, 1 in 5, I kid you not) had either defective lights, only side lights, or no lights showing at all. Numpties all.

I wasn't cycling & I didn't fancy it at all. Cycling tomorrow - hope it is clear then.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 18 March, 2013, 09:10:44 pm
Quote from: simonp on 18 March, 2013, 01:43:30 pm
A dog wanted me to throw its stick (I'd stopped as it was trotting towards me, then it put the stick down in front of my wheel).

Also, I have a little bit of knee pain after Saturday's 200k. And a sore back. But I also did a PB on the Stoke Park climb according to Strava.
So you get to ride past the bright yellow ex-mental hospital and The Other Somerset Monument? Nice commute!  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 18 March, 2013, 09:42:24 pm
Yep. That climb is a good work out on fixed. In either direction!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 18 March, 2013, 11:08:05 pm
Quote from: simonp on 18 March, 2013, 01:43:30 pm
A dog wanted me to throw its stick (I'd stopped as it was trotting towards me, then it put the stick down in front of my wheel).

Also, I have a little bit of knee pain after Saturday's 200k. And a sore back. But I also did a PB on the Stoke Park climb according to Strava.

Dogs seem to like you. Was it a 10 foot stick like the ones Squidge likes to pick up?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 18 March, 2013, 11:08:51 pm
I did my first commute for a week this morning (On a ski holiday last week).  Unfortunately the road salt has got into some of my components so the front brake has siezed.  I pull the lever to stop which is ok, but I have to push the calipers apart before I continue.  I also noticed that when I switch to a low gear then the deraileur is not indexing quite right.  So an application of a light oil will be used tomorrow to see it makes things a little better.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 March, 2013, 10:01:30 am
Tough one this morning. 

Usual numpty motorised traffic.  Usual numpty cyclists.  Usual crappy junctions.  Usual potholes.  Lanes flooded at Clapham Common.

But the real struggle was with breathing.  I had to stop to take some Ventolin half way (I'd already taken some leaving the house). :(

Not too slow, though...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Karla on 19 March, 2013, 10:21:23 am
There was some guy doing crazy figure of eights across two lanes at a set of lights, presumably trying not to put a foot down.  FFS you've got all the gear, now learn to track stand!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 19 March, 2013, 10:35:29 am
Almost squashed a skwerl.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 March, 2013, 11:09:20 am
I forgot to mention that, last night, at Mitcham Common, I saw an artic running down the slope from a railway bridge onto the small roundabout, almost into the car which was already turning around it.  The braking was quite dramatic, and I am glad it worked.  However, I was entering the RAB at the next road, and I wasn't sure where the sleepy HGV driver was going.  If it was my narrow exit, with a ditch alongside and oncoming traffic, I had no way to escape.  Fortunately, he headed down towards Croydon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 19 March, 2013, 11:24:06 am
Quote from: Mr Bunbury on 19 March, 2013, 10:21:23 am
There was some guy doing crazy figure of eights across two lanes at a set of lights, presumably trying not to put a foot down.  FFS you've got all the gear, now learn to track stand!

Or just put a foot down. Trackstanding is only, like, k3wl if you're twelve.

When I was twelve I learned to ride my BMX backwards down the street. That's a lot tougher than it looks. People should have been more impressed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Karla on 19 March, 2013, 11:43:02 am
Quote from: ian on 19 March, 2013, 11:24:06 am
Quote from: Mr Bunbury on 19 March, 2013, 10:21:23 am
There was some guy doing crazy figure of eights across two lanes at a set of lights, presumably trying not to put a foot down.  FFS you've got all the gear, now learn to track stand!

Or just put a foot down. Trackstanding is only, like, k3wl if you're twelve.

When I was twelve I learned to ride my BMX backwards down the street. That's a lot tougher than it looks. People should have been more impressed.

Yebbut if you really insist on buying lots of bike kit (this was an older middle aged guy, not dressed up like a MAMIL but more in a 'I used to race when i was a lad' way), you really should have learned that sort of stuff at some point.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Marco Stefano on 19 March, 2013, 12:32:42 pm
Quote from: Marco Stefano on 18 March, 2013, 07:55:42 pm
I wasn't cycling & I didn't fancy it at all. Cycling tomorrow - hope it is clear then.

It wasn't, but I cycled anyway. 5 miles in I looked down and realised it was freezing fog - my gloves & levers were covered in ice crystals. Drivers considerate though; all driving slowly (about 50 - 100m visibility) & I had a red Night Fog Vision Evo jacket on as well as lights.

I was cycling slowly too; have lost a lot of fitness over the past 3 months...  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 19 March, 2013, 01:54:19 pm
Did 16 miles on my virtual commute this morning, only redeeming factor of late shift. 

I couldn't believe the difference hitting the road a couple of hours later makes, almost like riding somewhere alien.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 19 March, 2013, 08:55:34 pm
Approaching the traffic lights (https://maps.google.co.uk/?ll=51.456046,-0.144174&spn=0.004486,0.011362&t=m&z=17&layer=c&cbll=51.456007,-0.144061&panoid=-FrJCfY-Zore3wyGZ_xu3Q&cbp=12,306.68,,0,8.24) onto Clapham Common this morning, some cardboard almost took me out.

I barely noticed it, but there was a thick sodden bit of cardboard on the cycle path approach to the advanced stop light, and approaching the lights, they changed to green and I very slightly accelerated as I crossed the cardboard and the wheel suddenly went away from me, almost planting me flat on the ground.

I've cycled over snow, ice, gravel and mud, and that was the slipperiest my wheels have been in a long time, I came far closer to coming off than I have for several years.  I'm guessing it was a very thick and sodden load of cardboard.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 19 March, 2013, 09:25:19 pm
Quote from: TimO on 19 March, 2013, 08:55:34 pm
Approaching the traffic lights (https://maps.google.co.uk/?ll=51.456046,-0.144174&spn=0.004486,0.011362&t=m&z=17&layer=c&cbll=51.456007,-0.144061&panoid=-FrJCfY-Zore3wyGZ_xu3Q&cbp=12,306.68,,0,8.24) onto Clapham Common this morning, some cardboard almost took me out.

I barely noticed it, but there was a thick sodden bit of cardboard on the cycle path approach to the advanced stop light, and approaching the lights, they changed to green and I very slightly accelerated as I crossed the cardboard and the wheel suddenly went away from me, almost planting me flat on the ground.

I've cycled over snow, ice, gravel and mud, and that was the slipperiest my wheels have been in a long time, I came far closer to coming off than I have for several years.  I'm guessing it was a very thick and sodden load of cardboard.

It must have been, I could hear you saying sodden cardboard from over here.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Morrisette on 20 March, 2013, 08:50:05 am
Rain again. With sleet. Sigh. My Grand Plan of 2013 involved me starting the big commute on the first day of spring. FAIL. I have bought another train ticket in the faint hope that this will make winter stop. Please?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 20 March, 2013, 09:43:04 am
I summoned up the willpower to ride again today, despite the weariness associated with being in the mode group in the Age Poll and despite my irrational fear of weather. 

I was glad I did, as otherwise I would have missed the minor comedy moment when a person driving a Fiat 500, who had waited at her T-junction until I was within spitting distance, decided to pull out in front of me to give me an opportunity to test my braking skills with only a front brake and legs.  I stopped quickly enough, but her delight that her experiment had worked so well resulted in her stalling mid-junction.

For anyone still awake after this exciting anecdote, I was travelling along the red arrow, the car is depicted in its stalled position.
(http://www.lfgss.com/picture.php?albumid=1889&pictureid=15250)

Edit:  Hmmm, I don't remember the trees having all those green bits on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 20 March, 2013, 11:46:15 am
>On the commute todaytommorrow

Free brekkie 7-10am/Dr Bike session, during the official opening of the new cycletrack by B&Q (http://tinyurl.com/d3oudum) - A361 NNE'wards

Might just have to divert on the way in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 20 March, 2013, 12:31:04 pm
Embarrassing moment in New Kent Road this morning. All my fault.

The approach to start of the bus lane was cluttered with kerb huggers so I went down the right until there was a gap big enough for me to move back across to the (now adjacent) bus lane. The last vehicle I overtook was a tipper truck so I couldn't see the taxi steaming up the bus lane. I wasn't ever going to swing in without looking and was positioning myself in the gap before moving over, but from his viewpoint it must have looked as though I was going to cut in front of him.

Anyway, he simply slowed down and waved me into the lane in front of him.  And I got a 'don't worry mate' when I apologised at the next set of traffic ights.

But I did feel as though I had done the perception of cyclists no favours.  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 20 March, 2013, 12:48:20 pm
I only commuted part way last night because I did not have a rain coat and got on the train.  I was punished for wimping out. I bought my ticket and stuffed my wallet around my back.  At Cardiff Central I changed train and looked for my wallet in my back pockets, it wasn't there! After a brief panic, a minute worrying, I found I had not put it in a pocket but in the gap between my big longs and my shorts. I noticed a bulge on my thigh and retrieved my wallet credit cards and Euros, I must go to the cash point to get some Pounds.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 20 March, 2013, 06:44:17 pm
You'd think that I'd know by now that 4 cheese sarnies, an apple, orange and a few handfuls of peanuts do not provide anywhere near enough sustenance for a round trip of 30 miles as well as a full day at work.  Ooooh look at the pretty stars...... clot.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 20 March, 2013, 08:32:51 pm
I did not indulge in commuter racing tonight.
'Twas the same target as yesterday and he didn't seem too happy last night!  (I wasn't drafting him, I was keeping well back, but that may be what he was thinking).  Oh, and I couldn't be bothered! 

But I did see at least five or six other bikes in total, which is something of a record round here!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 20 March, 2013, 10:49:57 pm
A commute with a difference today.  Have been working 3 days a week on a project in Basel, Switzerland (fly out Monday night, fly back Thursday night) so have had 0 commuting miles since early February. 

Last week I brought the Airnimal out but it was snowing so it stayed snug in its Delsey case.  But today!!

Its 10km from the hotel to the office, which was pleasant, even carrying laptop and clothes in a rucksack.  But tonight, left clothes and computer in a locker and headed off into the hills, lit by a full moon.  After a short warm up through Aesch, Duggingen and Grellingen went on a 9km climb up to Nunningen and then Bretzwil.  I phoned home as its my son's birthday.  Then started off, into a heavy rain shower.  After Seewen, turned left to Hochwald and the rain turned to sleet and then snow.  The descent of Gempen was done very carefully (drops 380m in 7.3km with a reasonable number of hairpins in the forest.  Congratulating myself on a job well done then came a-cropper on the oblique tram tracks on Munchenheimerstrasse, fortunately on minor road rash.  46km of epic night time commuting and the sorts of hills you can't get in Hampshire  :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

Looking forward to next week and the Challpass if the weather is good.

Tried out my new USB chargeable Lezyne Microdrives, perfectly good for descending the well sealed Swiss roads with good reflective markers on the sides of the roads and would have had no problem descending faster if the weather had allowed.  The front light was showing a half-red warning after two hours but was perfectly adequate for this sort of riding and will be even better after Easter when the clocks go back.

Will keep you posted on my Swiss commuting adventures and will be ultra-careful on the Munchenheimerstrasse tram tracks instead of just very careful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 21 March, 2013, 09:24:44 am
^^^^

Not at ALL jealous.  Switzlerland? Pah!  Has nothing on Kensington High Road......
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 21 March, 2013, 12:12:07 pm
Going up Warburton bridge and I thought " this is bleedin hard work today" and a few minns later "thats a massive pot-hole"

Flat rear tyre, 10 mins to change gave some motivation for the rest of the ride - still not late  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 21 March, 2013, 07:30:03 pm
First real commute today, 16-mile roundtrip as opposed to the paltry 5-mile one I had before. Was just thinking about Clarion as I trundled along towards Elephant and lo, he appeared, which was odd but pleasant. We rode along very briefly before I turned off to potter through the back streets to Tower Bridge to find the rest of the blue paint.

Pootled along the blue paint for a bit pondering how my saddle had become very uncomfortable. Eventually I realised I felt like I was about to fall off the back of the bike and got off to discover that the nose of the saddle was pointing skywards. And of course I hadn't packed my multitool - possibly the first time I've gone out without it in years. I asked a fellow cyclist who looked like he might have an allen key or three if he could help and luckily he did, so I managed the last couple of miles rather more comfortable. So thanks very much for that, if it was you...

Headwind there, tailwind home!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 21 March, 2013, 07:41:23 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 21 March, 2013, 07:30:03 pm
First real commute today, 16-mile roundtrip

Well done. :thumbsup:
That'll be formidable mileage, five days a week.
What are the public transport alternatives like?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 21 March, 2013, 07:42:49 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 21 March, 2013, 07:30:03 pm
First real commute today, ...

Ah, that explains why I didn't see you Mon-Wed.  Off the bike today and tomorrow, so will have to wait until next week for some NSTN-spotting.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 21 March, 2013, 08:01:30 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 21 March, 2013, 07:41:23 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 21 March, 2013, 07:30:03 pm
First real commute today, 16-mile roundtrip

Well done. :thumbsup:
That'll be formidable mileage, five days a week.
What are the public transport alternatives like?

They involve the DLR, which is perfectly fine, if it's working.

But to get to that I have to squish on the Northern line to get to Bank, which is NOT fine. And you pay handsomely for the dubious privilege.

Can also get the new bit of ginger line from Clapham to Shadwell to get to DLR, but that involves going back on myself and so takes a bit longer.

Quote from: Andrij on 21 March, 2013, 07:42:49 pm


Ah, that explains why I didn't see you Mon-Wed.  Off the bike today and tomorrow, so will have to wait until next week for some NSTN-spotting.


I won't be attempting it every single day for the moment. I'm currently expending a lot of mental energy trying to absorb all the new information/bits of legislation etc, so have been feeling a bit knackered most evenings, so I don't want to push it too much.

New job also involves having to travel round the borough a bit, so the bike will be incredibly handy for that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 22 March, 2013, 07:56:07 am
And that lovely little Brompton will be just handy for mixing up your commuting modes when necessary.
This morning, the rain felt like fine needles of ice stabbing my face.  Every time I turned slightly eastwards, it was horrible, horrible, horrible. 
Looks like it has cleared a bit for commuters now, though, in London anyway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 22 March, 2013, 08:42:39 am
Oof that was cold.  I headed off extra early to do a Bicycle Tag of Bike over on LFGSS, which entailed heading down to Ladywell Fields.  There was ice in the air, stinging my eyes and pinging off my unprotected scalp.  My fingers were almost too cold to take the necessary picture of the Lewisham Dutch Elm.

I warmed up on the way into town though.  And I bombed through a red light at considerable speed as I can through Hatcham.  Distracted by a pedestrian having popped out of the lane of stationary traffic on my left, I failed to notice that the light controlling my lane had changed.  Stopped just in time to avoid being squished by traffic from Peckham.

Tried out some of the bumpy town centre parts of the London Classic route before arriving at work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 22 March, 2013, 08:46:25 am
Like riding through a poo slushie. Easily the fastest way into central leeds - traffic from Otley was solid up the chevin at 7.30am.

This is currently melting into my office carpet.

(http://sphotos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/197165_10100499979813610_1708998037_n.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 22 March, 2013, 09:03:43 am
That was hard work!
I'm expecting the journey home to be wind assisted.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 22 March, 2013, 09:08:02 am
Quote from: Jurek on 22 March, 2013, 09:03:43 am
That was hard work!
I'm expecting the journey home to be wind assisted.

What are you?  New?
Of course the wind will reverse direction at lunchtime.  It's the law!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 22 March, 2013, 09:10:06 am
It won't need to shift much to be a headwind tonight, Jurek!  On my ride to Ladywell I had a headwind, but from there up to town I flew along.  A shift of a few degrees of the compass will be enough to deny you that tailwind!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 March, 2013, 09:18:25 am
Quote from: Basil on 22 March, 2013, 09:08:02 am
Quote from: Jurek on 22 March, 2013, 09:03:43 am
That was hard work!
I'm expecting the journey home to be wind assisted.

What are you?  New?
Of course the wind will reverse direction at lunchtime.  It's the law!

That young lad Jurek will learn with time. ;D

So...Will this wind be so mighty...?

Yes, about that mighty.  Give or take.

Speed: Annoyingly slow
Breathing: Annoyingly annoying
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 22 March, 2013, 09:24:25 am
yr.no says it'll be 11m/s from the east for the next 24 hrs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 March, 2013, 09:42:43 am
And now he believes what someone who isn't even in Britain says on the internet! ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 22 March, 2013, 09:51:33 am
witnessed an instant karma on the way in: a cyclist waits at red light, decides it's on for too long, gets going and unships the chain in the middle of junction ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 22 March, 2013, 10:43:09 am
Quote from: zigzag on 22 March, 2013, 09:51:33 am
witnessed an instant karma on the way in: a cyclist waits at red light, decides it's on for too long, gets going and unships the chain in the middle of junction ;D

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8pSTQkeEUus
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 March, 2013, 10:57:30 am
;D Oh how I wish that happened every time.

This morning, I saw RLJing by every sort of vehicle, even when there were people (children in one case) on the crossing. >:(

I also nearly got rear ended at Clapham South when I heard a siren coming from the left, and stopped behind the line, even though the light was green.  The unmarked Police (I assume) car appeared at speed from the left and turned across us to head South.  Silly beggar behind me probably didn't hear it, sealed in his soundproofed box with some irritating 'music' playing.  He'd have happily charged across the junction and caused the Police to execute an emergency stop, or T-bone the fecker. >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 22 March, 2013, 11:55:58 am
tough today - that wind is cutting
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lordy on 22 March, 2013, 05:34:58 pm
Looking forward to the tailwind tonight, just hope this mornings p@uncture repair holds out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: phantasmagoriana on 22 March, 2013, 06:07:32 pm
Didn't enjoy the nasty headwind on the ride in this morning. Going home was fun though! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: IanDG on 22 March, 2013, 06:22:23 pm
Home into a 52mph headwind on 64" fixed. -4C with the wind chill :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 22 March, 2013, 09:57:19 pm
a bit of Hail and headwind on the way home tonight. And the muppet on the month at the wheel of his car in High Road Leytonstone .
Overtaking with a few cm to spare, once again had a friendly chat at the traffic light, turns out he was busy stroking his mobile phone.
Apologised profusely.... and put his safety belt on at the end of our conversation.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 March, 2013, 09:20:45 am
Snow and headwind this morning.  Pretty tough ride.  But at least it was quiet.  I stopped as many times on the E&C bypass (I was going to t'Co-op) as I did between home and Tooting.

Sadly, there were only four other cyclists in evidence during my hour of commute (half of which was on CS7).  :(

I passed them all :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 March, 2013, 01:55:23 pm
I can tell a hawk from a handsaw, and yesterday it was the latter I saw a chap carrying in a rucksack on CS7 in Colliers Wood.  He was slicing through gaps and cutting across red lights.  He mitre had an accident if he carried on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 23 March, 2013, 06:23:08 pm
Don't fret (you have a tenoncy to do that), he was obviously coping all right!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 23 March, 2013, 07:56:48 pm
Will you guys cut that out please?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 23 March, 2013, 11:18:48 pm
I'm not jumping onto this band wagon  :hand:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 24 March, 2013, 07:22:08 am
Ten minutes into the snow and headwind, I decided to bail, I'm afraid.

But there were no trains for an hour from the next station, and I have to be at work to let everyone in for an 0800 start, so that's no good.

I rode across to East Croydon, because that's on a different line.  The trains are pretty messed up there, and the boards have contradictory information, including replacement buses.  The train to London Bridge said it was going via Clapham Junction, which seemed unlikely, and mentioned a bus service.

There was a Victoria train there, so I asked a member of staff if there were any LBR trains, as I'd have to catch that Victoria train if not.

She insisted on waving that train out of the station before answering me with, 'i don't know.  I've just come on duty' >:(

If she'd told me that at the start, I'd have got on the train.

Fortunately, the London Bridge train is a reality.  It's not a bus, and it isn't going via Clapham Junction. ,D

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 24 March, 2013, 10:32:40 am
Quote from: Arno on 22 March, 2013, 09:57:19 pm
a bit of Hail and headwind on the way home tonight. And the muppet on the month at the wheel of his car in High Road Leytonstone .
Overtaking with a few cm to spare, once again had a friendly chat at the traffic light, turns out he was busy stroking his mobile phone.
Apologised profusely.... and put his safety belt on at the end of our conversation.

Well done!  I read a lot of reports on here about people remonstrating with motorists successfully.  I have never managed to do this without being offered violence, so I tend not to do it, now.  Maybe I just look soft (and old?).

One thing I have noticed is that almost every time I stop to let someone out into the road, my courtesy is repaid by them being on their mobile phone!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 24 March, 2013, 11:01:31 am
Quote from: Peter on 24 March, 2013, 10:32:40 am
One thing I have noticed is that almost every time I stop to let someone out into the road, my courtesy is repaid by them being on their mobile phone!

There is a junction/intersection on my old commute where, although there is a high volume of traffic, the road lay out is such that I am able to hold up the traffic behind and give way to vehicles wishing to cross or turn right across us.  I first started to do this for buses or bikes, but I now do it for anyone because a) I can, and b) I enjoy watching the response.
Bus driver response is usually matter of fact.  A "cheers mate" hand wave.
Car drivers either look astonished, hesitate and then sort of scuttle across with no acknowledgement, clearly embarrassed at being aided in their journey by a cyclist, or they just ignore me and look beyond for confirmation from the car behind. Even though that car has no way to get past me.
I find that cyclists often exhibit this latter reaction as well.  ???

To be clear, this all goes on in slow moving rush hour traffic.  I've never had a bad response from anyone behind.
Well, maybe a couple of what might have been "punishment overtakes".  Or they may have just been poor driving - hard to tell the difference in Brum.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: IanDG on 24 March, 2013, 11:30:30 am
Quote from: Basil on 24 March, 2013, 11:01:31 am

Well, maybe a couple of what might have been "punishment overtakes".  Or they may have just been poor driving - hard to tell the difference in Brum.

After 8 yrs of the Queslett Road/Scott Arms I know what you mean
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: IanDG on 24 March, 2013, 11:31:45 am
Quote from: clarion on 24 March, 2013, 07:22:08 am
Ten minutes into the snow and headwind, I decided to bail, I'm afraid.

But there were no trains for an hour from the next station, and I have to be at work to let everyone in for an 0800 start, so that's no good.

I rode across to East Croydon, because that's on a different line.  The trains are pretty messed up there, and the boards have contradictory information, including replacement buses.  The train to London Bridge said it was going via Clapham Junction, which seemed unlikely, and mentioned a bus service.

There was a Victoria train there, so I asked a member of staff if there were any LBR trains, as I'd have to catch that Victoria train if not.

She insisted on waving that train out of the station before answering me with, 'i don't know.  I've just come on duty' >:(

If she'd told me that at the start, I'd have got on the train.

Fortunately, the London Bridge train is a reality.  It's not a bus, and it isn't going via Clapham Junction. ,D



At least there's no snow or rain here - just the wind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 24 March, 2013, 03:44:08 pm
If you're in the ASL waiting at the lights and a car creeps up to within inches of your offside can you legally boot their wing? They were already there when I arrived and I think got affronted and started inching toward me, I ignored it and didn't look at them and made off much faster than them. I didn't do anything but technically they've jumped a red so if I swing a foot and catch them I don't see why it would be my fault.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 24 March, 2013, 08:59:12 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 24 March, 2013, 03:44:08 pm
If you're in the ASL waiting at the lights and a car creeps up to within inches of your offside can you legally boot their wing? They were already there when I arrived and I think got affronted and started inching toward me, I ignored it and didn't look at them and made off much faster than them. I didn't do anything but technically they've jumped a red so if I swing a foot and catch them I don't see why it would be my fault.

No, but you might get killed.  Motorists can be funny about stuff  like equal rights for cyclists.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 25 March, 2013, 10:09:00 am
first commute in 3 months and boy was it cold.   I am not sure whether to take the train home or not.
Either way may do the train tomorrow depending on what time I get home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 25 March, 2013, 11:20:52 am
Quote from: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 20 March, 2013, 10:49:57 pm
A commute with a difference today.  Have been working 3 days a week on a project in Basel, Switzerland (fly out Monday night, fly back Thursday night) so have had 0 commuting miles since early February. 

Last week I brought the Airnimal out but it was snowing so it stayed snug in its Delsey case.  But today!!

Its 10km from the hotel to the office, which was pleasant, even carrying laptop and clothes in a rucksack.  But tonight, left clothes and computer in a locker and headed off into the hills, lit by a full moon.  After a short warm up through Aesch, Duggingen and Grellingen went on a 9km climb up to Nunningen and then Bretzwil.  I phoned home as its my son's birthday.  Then started off, into a heavy rain shower.  After Seewen, turned left to Hochwald and the rain turned to sleet and then snow.  The descent of Gempen was done very carefully (drops 380m in 7.3km with a reasonable number of hairpins in the forest.  Congratulating myself on a job well done then came a-cropper on the oblique tram tracks on Munchenheimerstrasse, fortunately on minor road rash.  46km of epic night time commuting and the sorts of hills you can't get in Hampshire  :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

Looking forward to next week and the Challpass if the weather is good.

Tried out my new USB chargeable Lezyne Microdrives, perfectly good for descending the well sealed Swiss roads with good reflective markers on the sides of the roads and would have had no problem descending faster if the weather had allowed.  The front light was showing a half-red warning after two hours but was perfectly adequate for this sort of riding and will be even better after Easter when the clocks go back.

Will keep you posted on my Swiss commuting adventures and will be ultra-careful on the Munchenheimerstrasse tram tracks instead of just very careful.

Hardly jealous at all. Grrrrrrrrrrrr

If you need any suggestions for rides into and around Zurich, or bike hire, I could help.

From the top of the Uetliberg after work a couple of years back ......
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-pJDXGfSDx84/TzFT8p5MYRI/AAAAAAAAf_8/4ah1g5IPy5U/s400/IMG_0470.JPG)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 25 March, 2013, 11:47:24 am
Ice.

More Ice.

Blown snow across the whole road.

More ice.

The powers that be seem to have ignored the LAW whereby if you buy protective equipment (rain gear, ice bike, helmets) you will thereafter never need said equipment, with quite a vengeance.

Bastards.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 25 March, 2013, 12:38:18 pm
I'm reasonably sure that law doesn't actually apply to rain gear... maybe they've found a loophole?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 25 March, 2013, 02:03:50 pm
Tailwaind!  Wheeeeee  ;D

(Slow ride home tonight)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 25 March, 2013, 02:07:16 pm
Cold,  and tiny snow flakes. No significant ice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 25 March, 2013, 02:13:42 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 25 March, 2013, 02:03:50 pm
Tailwaind!  Wheeeeee  ;D

(Slow ride home tonight)

Other way round for me!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 25 March, 2013, 05:33:00 pm
The cops wouldn't let me ride down Pottergate today, I had to go round the other way:

http://www.eveningnews24.co.uk/news/update_pottergate_reopens_after_car_crashes_through_front_doors_of_norwich_jobcentre_1_1990524
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonBuoy on 25 March, 2013, 05:54:56 pm
The roads were fine but one bit of hedgerow wasn't:

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8367/8590285948_3397fbb8b0_z.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 25 March, 2013, 05:57:44 pm
There was the exact same thing in one spot on my commute home.  Very pretty.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: icenutter on 25 March, 2013, 06:12:27 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 25 March, 2013, 05:33:00 pm
The cops wouldn't let me ride down Pottergate today, I had to go round the other way:

http://www.eveningnews24.co.uk/news/update_pottergate_reopens_after_car_crashes_through_front_doors_of_norwich_jobcentre_1_1990524
"We are confident it was a deliberate act." Crikey.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 25 March, 2013, 06:15:40 pm
Quote from: icenutter on 25 March, 2013, 06:12:27 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 25 March, 2013, 05:33:00 pm
The cops wouldn't let me ride down Pottergate today, I had to go round the other way:

http://www.eveningnews24.co.uk/news/update_pottergate_reopens_after_car_crashes_through_front_doors_of_norwich_jobcentre_1_1990524
"We are confident it was a deliberate act." Crikey.

The only really shocking bit is that the Jobcunter appear to have successfully booked a sign language interpreter for someone...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 25 March, 2013, 06:20:29 pm
All the way in:

(http://www.eveningnews24.co.uk/polopoly_fs/sa_01_jobs_centre_car_1_1990627!image/2389113496.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_225/2389113496.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 25 March, 2013, 06:42:10 pm
Did my commute again today. Wind in my face the whole damn way, hard work at times. Did feel like I was blown home though, apart from when traffic got in the way. Didn't spot any forummers.

Had to get off and walk around cordons when I got close to Walworth road, because there was a building that they were still trying to put a fire out. One dopey cyclist was so transfixed by gawping that he swerved into me so he got screeched at.

I think I can actually justify my 3pm biscuit(s) now I'm doing this commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 25 March, 2013, 06:43:01 pm
Quote from: JonBuoy on 25 March, 2013, 05:54:56 pm
The roads were fine but one bit of hedgerow wasn't:

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8367/8590285948_3397fbb8b0_z.jpg)


Yes, but my nostrils are nice and clear now. :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 25 March, 2013, 06:50:17 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 25 March, 2013, 06:42:10 pm
Did my commute again today. Wind in my face the whole damn way, hard work at times. Did feel like I was blown home though, apart from when traffic got in the way. Didn't spot any forummers.

Had to get off and walk around cordons when I got close to Walworth road, because there was a building that they were still trying to put a fire out. One dopey cyclist was so transfixed by gawping that he swerved into me so he got screeched at.

I think I can actually justify my 3pm biscuit(s) now I'm doing this commute.
It was my old library on fire.  What was once Walworth Town Hall.  It also had a museum in it, the Cuming.  I hope everyone inside is safe. I wonder how bad the damage is.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Specializta on 25 March, 2013, 06:51:10 pm
Quote from: JonBuoy on 25 March, 2013, 05:54:56 pm
The roads were fine but one bit of hedgerow wasn't:

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8367/8590285948_3397fbb8b0_z.jpg)
Is that the one on the way into Kenilworth? Been there since January that has.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 25 March, 2013, 06:56:14 pm
Quote from: jane on 25 March, 2013, 06:50:17 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 25 March, 2013, 06:42:10 pm
Did my commute again today. Wind in my face the whole damn way, hard work at times. Did feel like I was blown home though, apart from when traffic got in the way. Didn't spot any forummers.

Had to get off and walk around cordons when I got close to Walworth road, because there was a building that they were still trying to put a fire out. One dopey cyclist was so transfixed by gawping that he swerved into me so he got screeched at.

I think I can actually justify my 3pm biscuit(s) now I'm doing this commute.
It was my old library on fire.  What was once Walworth Town Hall.  It also had a museum in it, the Cuming.  I hope everyone inside is safe. I wonder how bad the damage is.

Everyone is safe, apparently, but I'm afraid the building didn't look good. There wasn't a lot of roof left from what I could see.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 25 March, 2013, 07:59:53 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 25 March, 2013, 06:56:14 pm
Quote from: jane on 25 March, 2013, 06:50:17 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 25 March, 2013, 06:42:10 pm
Did my commute again today. Wind in my face the whole damn way, hard work at times. Did feel like I was blown home though, apart from when traffic got in the way. Didn't spot any forummers.

Had to get off and walk around cordons when I got close to Walworth road, because there was a building that they were still trying to put a fire out. One dopey cyclist was so transfixed by gawping that he swerved into me so he got screeched at.

I think I can actually justify my 3pm biscuit(s) now I'm doing this commute.
It was my old library on fire.  What was once Walworth Town Hall.  It also had a museum in it, the Cuming.  I hope everyone inside is safe. I wonder how bad the damage is.

Everyone is safe, apparently, but I'm afraid the building didn't look good. There wasn't a lot of roof left from what I could see.
That's a shame - I really like that building.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 25 March, 2013, 08:18:19 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 25 March, 2013, 06:42:10 pm
Had to get off and walk around cordons when I got close to Walworth road
I misread "cordons" as "condoms" and thought "yeah, that's normal for sarf London".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 25 March, 2013, 08:44:46 pm
Short version:
Rode all the way home, had a shite time, fell off in slush

Long version:
(click to show/hide)

And the bike is fine.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 25 March, 2013, 09:00:31 pm
Bet it was fucking cold, too...   :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 25 March, 2013, 10:02:29 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 25 March, 2013, 06:56:14 pm
Quote from: jane on 25 March, 2013, 06:50:17 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 25 March, 2013, 06:42:10 pm
Did my commute again today. Wind in my face the whole damn way, hard work at times. Did feel like I was blown home though, apart from when traffic got in the way. Didn't spot any forummers.

Had to get off and walk around cordons when I got close to Walworth road, because there was a building that they were still trying to put a fire out. One dopey cyclist was so transfixed by gawping that he swerved into me so he got screeched at.

I think I can actually justify my 3pm biscuit(s) now I'm doing this commute.
It was my old library on fire.  What was once Walworth Town Hall.  It also had a museum in it, the Cuming.  I hope everyone inside is safe. I wonder how bad the damage is.

Everyone is safe, apparently, but I'm afraid the building didn't look good. There wasn't a lot of roof left from what I could see.

That incident even made it on the Radio 2 travel, in spite of a lot of competition from more roads closed because of snow than they had time to mention.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 March, 2013, 06:45:33 am
That didn't sound much fun, boab. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 26 March, 2013, 06:11:48 pm
Ugh, boab. Sympathies.

There is still a bastard wind coming from the northeast. At least it blew me home though. Also had cause to cycle round on work business this afternoon, which is a Good Thing about my new job.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 26 March, 2013, 10:26:53 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 26 March, 2013, 06:11:48 pm
Ugh, boab. Sympathies.
 Also had cause to cycle round on work business this afternoon, which is a Good Thing about my new job.
Wish n'envy  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 27 March, 2013, 06:10:30 am
Ooh, boab, nasty.  No slush here, just that bitter east wind.  My commute route is a bit twisty and turny and every so often I must turn directly eastwards on both journeys as I almost become stationary and the breath seems blasted from my body momentarily.  Overall direction of homeward journey means that is mostly with a tailwind.  The good news is, the force of the east driven blast seems to be decreasing daily.  Just heading out to test today's version.  Looks like the breeze may be even a bit less than yesterday around SE London anyway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 27 March, 2013, 06:45:02 am
Definitely less windy today, here in Suffolk. The nor'easterly is no help to me either way, so this morning's turn of speed is entirely because I had 2 duvets on and couldn't bring myself to get out from under them. Still, it's nice to know I can do it when I need to.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 27 March, 2013, 06:54:29 am
Just stepped outside to put stuff in the recycling - it's positively balmy and calm, compared to the last few days.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 27 March, 2013, 07:39:01 am
With the wind having died away to almost nothing it was merely Very Cold this morning instead of the more usual Bastard Cold I've been trying to get used to.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 27 March, 2013, 08:56:09 am
Yesterday's journey sounds horrible, boab.


In other news:
Frozen slush with a topping of diesel. That's just A-MAY-ZING, that is.  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 27 March, 2013, 10:02:59 am
Just gorgeous weather in that London this morning. I had inadvertently donned my invisibility cloak though, to judge from some of the driving.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 27 March, 2013, 01:48:02 pm
There's some discussion of this appalling bit of video on Twitter

http://bit.ly/YIojPQ (http://bit.ly/YIojPQ)

The haulage firm in question is BP Mitchell, whose email address is info@bpmitchell.co.uk

Hopefully, fairly soon, the thug in question will "give a f--k",
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 27 March, 2013, 02:04:41 pm
Social work student was on training this morning. Cycling back to our office he was overtaken on the approach to traffic lights by a Merc which then turned left right across him. Classic left hook. Student is ok, sore and shaken, bike is fine. Didn't get the reg.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 27 March, 2013, 02:46:45 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 27 March, 2013, 01:48:02 pm
There's some discussion of this appalling bit of video on Twitter

http://bit.ly/YIojPQ (http://bit.ly/YIojPQ)

The haulage firm in question is BP Mitchell, whose email address is info@bpmitchell.co.uk

Hopefully, fairly soon, the thug in question will "give a f--k",
Bloody hell. A true psycho. Straight to the Police with that one I would have thought.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 27 March, 2013, 03:00:02 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 27 March, 2013, 01:48:02 pm
There's some discussion of this appalling bit of video on Twitter


What's the #tag?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 27 March, 2013, 03:05:20 pm
Jesus H Christ onna a bike.

What is the truck driver's problem? A bike, on the road? Being held up? What the Merry Fuck, seriously, just WTF...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 27 March, 2013, 03:10:50 pm
Quote from: Basil on 27 March, 2013, 03:00:02 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 27 March, 2013, 01:48:02 pm
There's some discussion of this appalling bit of video on Twitter


What's the #tag?

There wasn't one but I've just started #BPMitchell.  The discussion has been person to person
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 March, 2013, 03:22:59 pm
That was particularly appalling.  I have dropped them a line.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 27 March, 2013, 09:33:05 pm
No snow and no dodgy truck drivers for me today in Switzerland.  After two days of watching light snow fall and leaving the Airnimal in the luggage room of the Hotel Victoria, it was dry today.  -1C on the way out to the office.  Didn't get started until 7pm when it was getting dark, so another chance to test out the new USB rechargeable Lezyne Microdrives.  Rode back via Fluhli, Metzelen, and over the Challpass (747m) to Laufen.  The Challpass was a nice climb, it rises about 150m to a broad plateau and then climbs a further 200m over 2.5km average 8% or so.  Did it all in the saddle as was worried it might have started freeing near the top (snow lying on either side of the road).  Here's the profile

http://www.climbbybike.com/profile.asp?Climbprofile=Challpass&MountainID=5273

Had to use Route 18 (a busy road) on the way back, but it had a reasonably wide cycle path on the shoulder, in generally good nick, so could get the big gears turning and burning, so completed the 45km round trip back to the Hotel Victoria in 1hr 50min which I was quite pleased with given I'd stuck a 400m ascent in the middle of the ride.  The Microdrives weren't showing any warning on battery after the time and the front was OK for descending on the low beam setting.  It was pretty brisk by the time I got back and I was glad the roads were dry.  Also managed not to come off on the lethal tram tracks this time.

They say it will be spring next week in Basel.  Fingers crossed. So far the weather has been just the same here as back home.  Have got some wilder roads scanned on Google Maps that I want to explore once the clocks have gone back   ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 28 March, 2013, 01:55:25 pm
Quote from: hatler on 27 March, 2013, 02:46:45 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 27 March, 2013, 01:48:02 pm
There's some discussion of this appalling bit of video on Twitter

http://bit.ly/YIojPQ (http://bit.ly/YIojPQ)

The haulage firm in question is BP Mitchell, whose email address is info@bpmitchell.co.uk

Hopefully, fairly soon, the thug in question will "give a f--k",
Bloody hell. A true psycho. Straight to the Police with that one I would have thought.

No way in hell I'd put myself in front of him after seeing that though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 28 March, 2013, 02:15:14 pm
Quote from: alexb on 28 March, 2013, 01:55:25 pm
No way in hell I'd put myself in front of him after seeing that though.

My thoughts exactly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 28 March, 2013, 10:38:27 pm
Quote from: hatler on 28 March, 2013, 02:15:14 pm
Quote from: alexb on 28 March, 2013, 01:55:25 pm
No way in hell I'd put myself in front of him after seeing that though.

My thoughts exactly.

Yup thought that too.  Disturbing incident.  That road is not the easiest of commutes by the looks of things.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 29 March, 2013, 09:13:06 am
Much lighter traffic, much worse standard of driving.
Seems that on a bank hol, drivers like to maintain a constant 40mph everywhere, and bus lane restrictions dont apply.
More incidents this morning than in last 2 weeks combined, caused by impatient speeders.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tatanab on 29 March, 2013, 09:31:03 am
Quote from: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 27 March, 2013, 09:33:05 pm
They say it will be spring next week in Basel.
14 years ago I lived in St Loius, the suburb over the border in France.  Most of my winter rides were west and north, but sometimes I would cross the river into Germany.  I recall a spring ride with the small orchards on the German side all in blossom which was very attractive in the spring sunshine - that would have been very late March/early April.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 29 March, 2013, 10:34:19 am
No blossom at the moment, not even a blade of fresh grass.  It's snowed most weeks out of the last seven - their weather has been as bad as ours.  Still have 3 more weeks out there at least so there's hope some improvement, especially as the clocks go back and I can start my evening rides in the light again  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: phantasmagoriana on 02 April, 2013, 06:15:25 pm
The ride home was rather pleasant. Tailwind, sun and not actually freezing - more of that, please!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 02 April, 2013, 07:06:17 pm
A balmy 7 degrees and sunny.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 02 April, 2013, 07:17:21 pm
The bright ball of fire in the sky all day was rather worrying.  On the other hand, it was bright enough  on both legs of the commute that I didn't need to use my lights.  It may be The End Of The World, but at least I won't have to worry about charging batteries.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Socks on 02 April, 2013, 08:18:57 pm
I've also sent a message to BPMitchell asking about their policy on driver training and safety and suggesting that they have a look at the video clip ....

Another angle is the way that roads and junctions are designed.  In brief, they don't take account of the psychology of the people driving the cars / trucks.  By trying to control and sign everything, a culture of speed, selfishness and lack of common-sense is encouraged.  Have a look at this clip to see how things could be if highways engineers got their act together:

http://youtu.be/-vzDDMzq7d0

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 02 April, 2013, 10:01:42 pm
Not technically a commute today as I picked up the bike from the Victoria hotel after work and then started a ride at just before 7.30pm CET (that's the time zone, not me).  Was still light as I rode through Arlesheim to Dornach, aiming for the Hochwald.  This little beastie is just 3.4km long but averages 9.4%.  As soon as you turn off Gempenstrasse onto Hochwaldstrasse it ramps up and invites a low gear.  After a while of labouring through the forest there is a left hand bend in the trees and it looks like it levels off.  This is only the steepest false flat in my experience and marks the start of the last kilometre averaging 11%.  There isn't a moment of relief on this one.  I turned left at the Hochwald sign and through Gempen riding a short section of road I had last done in heavy snow, before stopping at Gempen to turn my lights on. 

I took the descent through Nuglar into Liestal carefully, aware that my night vision isn't the best at judging distances and it was almost properly dark before I found the turn into Schauenburgerstrasse (try saying that in a hurry).  I wasn't sure what this road was like, Google Maps had proposed it and by zooming in on the satellite view it looked like it was made of tarmac.  It wound its way up into a couple of hidden valleys, one of which had a grand hotel.  The road skirted around this and started to climb more steeply, but unlike the Hochwald the steep sections weren't sustained.  There was one false summit near the top, but mercifully the road remained tarmac.  They even put up nice little signs to warn of frost damage.  (I supposed it would be environmentally unfriendly to do that in the UK- given the number of signs that would be required). 

I started on the descent back to Arlesheim and then caught a glimpse of a "20%" sign.  I'm not that partial to descent unknown roads in the dark with that sort of gradient but I guess it will set me up for the Brimstone and the Pendle later in the year.  I can't judge those sorts of gradients on a descent but it was pretty precipitous and encouragement to explore the climb, perhaps next week.  It looks like there is about 500m of 20% so will be generally epic.

Then it was a careful navigation back into the city, avoiding the usual perilous tram tracks.  45km in a smidgen under 2 hours but about 800m of ascent in a couple of stonking climbs.   :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 03 April, 2013, 11:03:27 am
Yesterday's commute was slightly weird. As I entered Battersea Park I found my way blocked by herons.

Seven of them, standing in the car park (I enter the park from Prince of Wales drive) with a couple of them quite close to the path. They didn't seem too bothered by me, they were just stood there looking around them, like alien visitors puzzled by their surroundings.
Viewed close up though, they're evil looking buggers and really quite surprisingly large, about a metre tall I'd guess and I would think that beak is a good 10-15cm long and looks wickedly sharp. With the way they fold their necks back, I'd guess they have a range of a good couple of feet, so I did my best to keep well clear of them.
There were two more standing in the pond as well. I don't think I've ever seen so many in one place before, it was quite surreal.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 03 April, 2013, 11:49:13 am
Low sun and icy windscreens. The perfect conditions for spotting the car-driving-fuckwit.
Bonus points for spotting those on their smart phones, presumeably checking their weather apps.
I saw one, Corstorphine road this morning.

Was late in going home last night, and it was a really nice ride back through town, it was pretty quiet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RJ on 03 April, 2013, 12:45:07 pm
Quote from: sg37409 on 03 April, 2013, 11:49:13 am
Low sun and icy windscreens. The perfect conditions for spotting the car-driving-fuckwit.
Bonus points for spotting those on their smart phones, presumeably checking their weather apps.
I saw one, Corstorphine road this morning.

Was late in going home last night, and it was a really nice ride back through town, it was pretty quiet.

Quite small differences in timings (IME) can make a big difference in levels of commuting calm (in term-time, I often shift my hours to accommodate a pedestrian-bike-pushing school-run, which means starting and finishing work 30-40 minutes later - which means much less motor traffic on my Southside/Edinburgh Park commute).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 03 April, 2013, 12:49:26 pm
Quote from: Peter on 24 March, 2013, 10:32:40 am
Quote from: Arno on 22 March, 2013, 09:57:19 pm
a bit of Hail and headwind on the way home tonight. And the muppet on the month at the wheel of his car in High Road Leytonstone .
Overtaking with a few cm to spare, once again had a friendly chat at the traffic light, turns out he was busy stroking his mobile phone.
Apologised profusely.... and put his safety belt on at the end of our conversation.

Well done!  I read a lot of reports on here about people remonstrating with motorists successfully.  I have never managed to do this without being offered violence, so I tend not to do it, now.  Maybe I just look soft (and old?).

One thing I have noticed is that almost every time I stop to let someone out into the road, my courtesy is repaid by them being on their mobile phone!

Bit late to comment on this but I found that not being too vindicative / venting my own anger did get me better results, ie drivers listening and sometimes accepting my point of view. I sometimes start with ' you did give me a fright there', or sometimes lower myself further and open the conversation with ' I can explain why I wasn't riding in the kerb, see those parked cars ? ' . Last time I did this the guy gave me a parting high five.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 03 April, 2013, 01:05:56 pm
Oddly enough, my totally unprovoked shunt (https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=70068.msg1451834#msg1451834) occured about 100 metres away from where the previous evening I'd had a conversation with a driver (following a way-too-close pass through a pinch point) the upshot of which was that he told me that when he gets home, he will indeed look up rule 163.

Whether he does or not is, of course, another matter....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Vince on 03 April, 2013, 01:09:01 pm
Quote from: alexb on 03 April, 2013, 11:03:27 am
Yesterday's commute was slightly weird. As I entered Battersea Park I found my way blocked by herons.

Seven of them, standing in the car park (I enter the park from Prince of Wales drive) with a couple of them quite close to the path. They didn't seem too bothered by me, they were just stood there looking around them, like alien visitors puzzled by their surroundings.
Viewed close up though, they're evil looking buggers and really quite surprisingly large, about a metre tall I'd guess and I would think that beak is a good 10-15cm long and looks wickedly sharp. With the way they fold their necks back, I'd guess they have a range of a good couple of feet, so I did my best to keep well clear of them.
There were two more standing in the pond as well. I don't think I've ever seen so many in one place before, it was quite surreal.

We have lots of herons over here (they like the numerous canals and drainage ditches) and you think that's a big bird, until you see one next to a stork. Now that's a big bird!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 03 April, 2013, 01:58:59 pm
Quote from: Wunja on 03 April, 2013, 01:09:01 pm
Quote from: alexb on 03 April, 2013, 11:03:27 am
Yesterday's commute was slightly weird. As I entered Battersea Park I found my way blocked by herons.

Seven of them, standing in the car park (I enter the park from Prince of Wales drive) with a couple of them quite close to the path. They didn't seem too bothered by me, they were just stood there looking around them, like alien visitors puzzled by their surroundings.
Viewed close up though, they're evil looking buggers and really quite surprisingly large, about a metre tall I'd guess and I would think that beak is a good 10-15cm long and looks wickedly sharp. With the way they fold their necks back, I'd guess they have a range of a good couple of feet, so I did my best to keep well clear of them.
There were two more standing in the pond as well. I don't think I've ever seen so many in one place before, it was quite surreal.

We have lots of herons over here (they like the numerous canals and drainage ditches) and you think that's a big bird, until you see one next to a stork. Now that's a big bird!

I think you'll find that this (http://images3.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20100901224145/muppet/images/f/f8/Big-bird-NEW.jpg) is a big bird.  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 03 April, 2013, 03:39:06 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 03 April, 2013, 01:05:56 pm
Oddly enough, my totally unprovoked shunt (https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=70068.msg1451834#msg1451834) occured about 100 metres away from where the previous evening I'd had a conversation with a driver (following a way-too-close pass through a pinch point) the upshot of which was that he told me that when he gets home, he will indeed look up rule 163.

Whether he does or not is, of course, another matter....


 ;D ;D ;D I had to look up that number, and no, I'm not normally numerically dyslexic, but in case you're wondering, here's what 136 deals with… 'Where a single carriageway has four or more lanes, use only the lanes that signs or markings indicate'. Reading that, I did wonder what your conversation was about. So… I looked up 163.

Now I know!!!

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 03 April, 2013, 07:47:13 pm
Got shat on on they way home  :( Frikkin' seagulls  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Vince on 03 April, 2013, 08:07:28 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 03 April, 2013, 01:58:59 pm
Quote from: Wunja on 03 April, 2013, 01:09:01 pm
Quote from: alexb on 03 April, 2013, 11:03:27 am
Yesterday's commute was slightly weird. As I entered Battersea Park I found my way blocked by herons.

Seven of them, standing in the car park (I enter the park from Prince of Wales drive) with a couple of them quite close to the path. They didn't seem too bothered by me, they were just stood there looking around them, like alien visitors puzzled by their surroundings.
Viewed close up though, they're evil looking buggers and really quite surprisingly large, about a metre tall I'd guess and I would think that beak is a good 10-15cm long and looks wickedly sharp. With the way they fold their necks back, I'd guess they have a range of a good couple of feet, so I did my best to keep well clear of them.
There were two more standing in the pond as well. I don't think I've ever seen so many in one place before, it was quite surreal.

We have lots of herons over here (they like the numerous canals and drainage ditches) and you think that's a big bird, until you see one next to a stork. Now that's a big bird!

I think you'll find that this (http://images3.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20100901224145/muppet/images/f/f8/Big-bird-NEW.jpg) is a big bird.  :smug:

How could I have gotten that so wrong?  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 03 April, 2013, 09:35:57 pm
Proper Swiss commute today - in that I did cycle into the office, although p&nt$red on the cycle path just by the Arlesheimerstrasse Tram stop.  One stray stone and I managed to hit it.  Probably thinking too much about racing the tram on which my colleague was sitting and grinning.  CET 1 Tram 0 in any case.

Set off about 7.40pm in the dusk for the steady climb from Grellingen to Seewen which rises about 240m in 4km.  Nice steady climb after the brute of the Hochwald yesterday.  Continued through Seewen to a high point of 575m before descending (fast) through Buren towards Liestal.  Then had a three-stage climb through Nuglar to Gempen, rising 330m in about 6km.  There were a few steep sections on this but plenty of easier ground so that whole thing was done at a brisk pace in the saddle before the big descent off Gempen into Dornach, done in a somewhat more stylish manner than in the wet a couple of weeks ago.  40km in about 1hr 50 mins, followed by a Sweet and Sour Pork at Mister Wongs.   Asian fast food has rarely tasted so good.

Hopefully it will be the Passwang (935m) next week some time although there is a horrible deadline on the project.  Perhaps I will lay in a stock of goodies from the Co-op and dine out on them at 11pm when I get back  :thumbsup: ;D :thumbsup: :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 04 April, 2013, 08:59:25 am
42 pedal strokes to work! A new record!

Okay, okay, wind-assisted I grant you, and mostly downhill, but I doubt it can be bettered.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 04 April, 2013, 09:05:49 am
Quote from: Riggers on 04 April, 2013, 08:59:25 am
42 pedal strokes to work! A new record!

Okay, okay, wind-assisted I grant you, and mostly downhill, but I doubt it can be bettered.

Congratulations. :D

To improve on your PB, I'd recommend a 70t chainring. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 04 April, 2013, 09:12:53 am
Sick. To. DETH. Of. The. Persistent. North. Easterly.  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 04 April, 2013, 10:11:27 am
I'm back in my Gore padded jacket today.  Yesterday my standard (non biking) trenchcoat with thermal layers underneath didn't quite cut it.  And my ears hurt.

I need to find a beanie that can go under the hat that isn't too big.  I have a Gore skull cap thing in S/M but it is too big at the back and goes all baggy.

I am loving the Sealskinz Waterproof Winter Ladies Gloves though.  Worth every penny.  My hands were the only bit of me on the way home last night that wasn't feeling even the slightest bit cold.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 04 April, 2013, 01:14:28 pm
Quote from: SJSBrompton on 04 April, 2013, 10:11:27 am
I am loving the Sealskinz Waterproof Winter Ladies Gloves though.  Worth every penny.  My hands were the only bit of me on the way home last night that wasn't feeling even the slightest bit cold.

They're by far the best gloves I've ever owned.  Admirably windproof, seem competent in the wet (it's always hard to tell with clothing that gets wet from the inside) and do a passable impression of actually shedding moisture.  Combined with silk liners (which greatly simplify the putting on and off of wet gloves), they'll keep my hands warm well after my feet have stopped responding and I'm struggling to breathe.  And they actually fit really well, which is rare.

In fact, I've been meaning to buy another pair because something that good is bound to be discontinued by the time I wear them out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 04 April, 2013, 01:21:33 pm
I also did a quick commute this morning. Set off late arrived early.  I am enjoying the rides to work at the moment but the return home 16 miles of headwind is a bit much.  This morning I made steady progress, wind assisted and clear from school traffic.  As I approached Pencoed I noticed that I was spinning on my usual gear so I pushed the lever forward a bit.  At the traffic lights at Penprysg Road I glanced at my watch and thought 15 minutes, easy. The lights changed and arrive in work with over 5 minutes to spare.  So I learn it is possible for me to get from work to Pencoed station in under 10 minutes. Off course if I am riding at that speed I won't want the train. Fast is fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: caerau on 04 April, 2013, 03:02:35 pm
Indeed - I thought today would be fun for going fast.  Just bought myself some fabby new wheels (Mavic Ksyriums) - I won't be using them often for the regular commute but today I thought as it's their first outing, lets see what they can do...

So within about 100 yards of my house I get run off the road by someone reversing out of their driveway.  >:(
I saw it coming and so had slowed but still had to do a tactical throw-myself-at-the-grass manoeuvre to minimise bodily damage.  A good job there is a grass verge there. The guy was so apologetic I couldn't help but let him off. 

Fortunately it seems not to have damaged my new wheels (or me) - I would have been most unimpressed to have buckled one within moments of fitting it.

For the rest of my journey I seemed to be invisible to both pedestrians and other reversing vehicles(!) - it's amazing how one incident can unnerve you.  So the wheels never did get a good test - and it blew a big headwind most of the way anyway.
Maybe it'll be calmer on the way home.  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 07 April, 2013, 09:01:55 am
What is it with cyclists who get to an advanced stop box and wait behind the first line, not the advanced line? What do they think the huge picture of a bike is all about?  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 April, 2013, 04:28:35 pm
I went to work today, but not before doing about 15km (plus distance to HPC) with a couple of Cyclechatters.  I only spent a bit over an hour at work, but couldn't stop grinning.

Might be back on the bike for commuting this week :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 08 April, 2013, 09:06:50 am
Quote from: Pickled Onion on 07 April, 2013, 09:01:55 am
What is it with cyclists who get to an advanced stop box and wait behind the first line, not the advanced line? What do they think the huge picture of a bike is all about?  ???


Because… sometimes Picklers, me'old mucker, it would put one in a position that leaves one unable to see the light sequence, assuming there isn't an advanced set beyond the main ones. I understand your point, but it's a minor thing isn't it?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 08 April, 2013, 10:25:52 am
Good Point Well Made.

However, the one I saw last week was to the left of a cement lorry which had (amazingly) also stopped at the first stop line. I don't know who got there first, but he was extremely unlikely to be visible from the driver's seat. So potentially not minor.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 08 April, 2013, 10:38:22 am
You didn't mention that particular observation in your first post you minx, but having said that, methinks from my own personal-forty-eight-years-of-cycling-survival-skilz, I'd hang back from a lorry, and not bother to put myself in a contentious position infront of it (the ASL) only to have said lorry want to overtake anytime soon thereafter.

I see this little post is cycling away from OTCToday, so just to say, mine was uneventful… again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 April, 2013, 11:20:58 am
I sat and watched a stream of cyclists squeeze down between the kerb and a cement truck which was indicating left while it was sat at the lights on Borough Road.  I expected to have to assist at the scene of a squishing, but fortunately the driver was very careful, and two riders had the belated sense to wait until the truck had pulled away and passed them.  Fuckwits.

Sadly, I didn't get the name of the company which owned the truck, so I can't contact them to commend the driver's caution.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 08 April, 2013, 11:48:47 am
Sadly, today has seen another cyclist in London die beneath the wheels of a left turning lorry. I will make no further comment, in the absence of any factual information about this incident, other than to say that Victoria Street, where this happened, is one of the worst streets in central London on which to ride a bike, not helped by the vast amount of construction work going on in the area.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 08 April, 2013, 11:54:59 am
The herons were back today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 08 April, 2013, 11:58:10 am
some fresh road markings and lanes in favour of cyclists on woolwich road this morning :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 April, 2013, 12:01:21 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 08 April, 2013, 11:48:47 am
Sadly, today has seen another cyclist in London die beneath the wheels of a left turning lorry. I will make no further comment, in the absence of any factual information about this incident, other than to say that Victoria Street, where this happened, is one of the worst streets in central London on which to ride a bike, not helped by the vast amount of construction work going on in the area.

That's very sad.  I rode to Victoria yesterday, and noted how much more dangerous the layout had become.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 08 April, 2013, 12:41:13 pm
Working from the Cambridge office for a few days this week, so nice and flat today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Palinurus on 08 April, 2013, 12:51:39 pm
Today was my first morning 'long-way-around' commute through the lanes of the year (rather late: last year 12th March, year before that 7th March).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 08 April, 2013, 01:39:50 pm
Quote from: Riggers on 08 April, 2013, 09:06:50 am
Quote from: Pickled Onion on 07 April, 2013, 09:01:55 am
What is it with cyclists who get to an advanced stop box and wait behind the first line, not the advanced line? What do they think the huge picture of a bike is all about?  ???


Because… sometimes Picklers, me'old mucker, it would put one in a position that leaves one unable to see the light sequence, assuming there isn't an advanced set beyond the main ones. I understand your point, but it's a minor thing isn't it?

I did receive an email from the London  Met roadsafe team a few weeks back. They were reminding drivers not to pass the first line at an asl, and reminding cyclists the only way past the first line was via the dotted line on the left hand side. A bit tricky when there are three lanes of traffic and a bus waiting in the left lane. In that case if you need to be in the rightmost lane to make a right turn at a junction, you would theoretically have to wait outside the box.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Reg.T on 08 April, 2013, 04:14:16 pm
Bit of a close one this morning. Royal Mail lorry in front of me in central Bath slows, indicates right, and stops. I decide to pass on the inside in a 2-3 foot gap, but as I near the front of the lorry the cab passenger door opens at my head height...

Managed to unclip and brake hard (riding fixed). Nearly came off, but got away with just getting a foot down as the back wheel lifted high in the air and the nose of the saddle stabbed into my lower back.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 08 April, 2013, 04:22:35 pm
Eeeeek !   That sounds quite close.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 08 April, 2013, 06:54:07 pm
Quote from: Reg.T on 08 April, 2013, 04:14:16 pm
Bit of a close one this morning. Royal Mail lorry in front of me in central Bath slows, indicates right, and stops. I decide to pass on the inside in a 2-3 foot gap, but as I near the front of the lorry the cab passenger door opens at my head height...

Managed to unclip and brake hard (riding fixed). Nearly came off, but got away with just getting a foot down as the back wheel lifted high in the air and the nose of the saddle stabbed into my lower back.

Eeps, glad you avoided it! That's the kind of thing you just can't anticipate, especially in such a busy place as central Bath.

My commute was dry, head windy on the way in which is unusual since I live SW of work, but otherwise uneventful and pleasant. The little wild Soay lambs on Cheddar Gorge are getting bigger  :D
I opted for the single chevron return route rather than the double for the sake of my knees which are not 100% at the moment and need to be in full working order for Yr Elenydd on Saturday!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 08 April, 2013, 10:56:29 pm
Quote from: clarion on 07 April, 2013, 04:28:35 pm
I went to work today, but not before doing about 15km (plus distance to HPC) with a couple of Cyclechatters.  I only spent a bit over an hour at work, but couldn't stop grinning.

Might be back on the bike for commuting this week :thumbsup:
Good stuff!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 09 April, 2013, 07:49:34 am
Looked out, saw it was persisting down, felt mildly despondent.

Turned out to be one of my best rides in for ages, felt like I was flying along.  It's a funny old game.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 09 April, 2013, 09:09:32 am
Yesterdays ride home from work was my first ride since becoming unwell on 20th March so was a little slow and laboured, accompanied by post unwell coughing fits.

This mornings ride to work was much the same.

Who gives a flying wossname though. it really is good to be back in the saddle :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 April, 2013, 09:38:41 am
Ride home last night was at normal commuting speed :thumbsup:

Let's not kid ourselves, though, there was a tailwind.

This morning was rather a different matter.  Rain and headwind.  I struggled up every rise.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 April, 2013, 09:44:18 am
And the driving today was abominable!  Careless (and deliberate) close passes, cars & trucks running red lights, a B*W getting in the wrong lane at Oval, and turning across a stream of bikes, and one very scary moment.

On Elephant & Castle roundabout, a scaff truck was heading into the bus lane, and swerved at the last minute across into the next lane, almost hitting a VW minibus.  Fortunately, the VW driver had good reactions, and avoided a collision.  Just further on, the scaff truck turned abruptly left across three lanes of traffic.  Moron.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 09 April, 2013, 10:01:13 am
A normal day in Londonton traffic, then. ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 April, 2013, 10:04:36 am
Normal for rainy days, yes.  For some reason, cars are unable to give enough space in the wet.  Must be some mechanical issue.  You'd think some engineers would have been able to get to the bottom of the issue by now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 09 April, 2013, 12:07:32 pm
Horrible headwind compounded by the fact I'm having to run the mountain bike since at the end of last night's commute on the road bike I was trying to figure out why the chain was rubbing on the front mech, the cranks were rocking like a cradle  :(

Just hope there's enough miles left in it to ride it to the LBS on Thursday
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 09 April, 2013, 12:32:33 pm
Lots of people out on bikes yesterday evening. Amazing what difference a rise of two degrees makes, I've barely seen anyone all winter/spring.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 09 April, 2013, 01:30:51 pm
Headwind all the way home - and I was feeling a bit lacklustre after giving blood  :smug:

Saw some shockingly bad riding too. One woman nearly got herself squashed twice - the first time by drifting out to overtake a stopped bus without even a glance over the shoulder, into the path of an overtaking car; the second by riding down the left hand side of a van stopped at traffic lights and clearly indicating left (I know because I had stopped behind it, in primary) and then moving off just as it started its turn.  Happily, in both cases, the drivers were alert.  #

And too many more like that to mention  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 09 April, 2013, 01:54:36 pm
Sorry about the rain everyone. It's clearly my fault. I've just swapped my winter tyres for slicks.
I knew I should have gone for the "inters".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 09 April, 2013, 09:39:43 pm
It was raining here in Switzerland too.  Not for the ride out to the office - it was a mild morning but with a suspiciously high level of humidity.  Sure enough, a couple of hours later it started raining and did that for most of the day.  Then it stopped, so I hoped that was it.  I headed up the Gempen - a long climb out of Dornach rising about 380m but a civilised average gradient of 5.4% and no steep bits - didn't need the little gear  :smug:

Turned right at the foot of the village for a power across to Hochwald and Seewen.  It was dusk and starting to rain.  After Seewen it rained properly - cats dogs frogs and Old Uncle Tom Cobbley and All could have been coming down.  There was a tasty headwind for the long drag up to Bretzwil.  I hoped it was just another shower but as I approach Nunningen I could see the westernmost part of the Nunningerberg disappearing in another downpour so cancelled the proposed extension to Laufen and hightailed it downhill to Grellingen.  By the end of the descent my feet were numb below the shins and my hands were starting to go the same way.  Got to the level crossing in Grellingen and it was closed  :demon:  Fortunately Swiss Trains don't have the same extravagant holds as Southern do (one or two around Chichester you have time to order a pint and drink it and ride back from the nearest pub before the gates go up) and so I was on the move before hypothermia took hold.

TT'ed it back from there, aided by a tailwind and a very slight downhill approached speeds of R2.5 (please refer to Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy) for an explanation through Aesch and accelerated from there, cursing every red light.  Got back to the hotel with just enough feeling in the limbs to navigate the revolving door and operate the key card and washed my socks in the bath  :thumbsup:  Have dry kit for tomorrow so hope that there will be dry roads to explore the 20% thingy out of Arlesheim.  It doesn't have a name so will have to give it one.

 ;D

PS looks like the Nunningerberg might be on next week.  And the Passwang.  Might go for an epic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 09 April, 2013, 10:13:10 pm
Yesterday my seat post was slipping - so i reset it and tightened the clamp. Today I got a mile down the road and suddenly the bolt went bang and i was sitting in a position rather similar to that of a kid on a BMX.

Took the bike home and had to drive in - on the day with the best commuting weather of the year so far :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 09 April, 2013, 10:35:21 pm
sounds more like a cycling holiday you're having there CET, rather than business trip
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 10 April, 2013, 08:22:39 am
Yesterday afternoon I rode home sans hat and gloves for the first time this year :thumbsup:

Back to cold grey misery this morning :( At least it's still dry (though that's forecast to change).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 10 April, 2013, 09:04:49 am
Excellent ride in this morning.
Legs definitely feeling a bit beefed-up, probably from having ridden The London Classic on Sunday, but the difference, the big, big difference was that there was no frikkin' headwind for the first time in what feels like weeks. Yay!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 10 April, 2013, 09:22:31 am
Quote from: Jurek on 10 April, 2013, 09:04:49 am
...there was no frikkin' headwind for the first time in what feels like weeks. Yay!

Ah, everything falls into place now.  I was wondering how I'd sudddenly gained fitness since the weekend.  Nice ride, marred slightly by a motorcyclist who decided to pass me on the left, using the modest space I'd left between myself and the cyclist I was overtaking.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 10 April, 2013, 09:39:07 am
received a compliment from a fellow cyclist this morning (i was surprised as this doesn't happen often in the central smoke)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 10 April, 2013, 09:42:26 am
First ride in since my easter holiday (and the subsequent cold).

Took it slow - then in Leeds had to take it a lot slower, as I caught up with a chap on a brand new PlanetX CF bike. New clothing as well. Don't like overtaking people with that sort of gear, because they normally launch into a commuter race.

But wow they were slow. 19kph up a gentle slope.  I'd be really embarrassed at that speed if I were:
Youngish
Slim (looked like a regular gym-goer)
Riding over £1000 of kit

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 10 April, 2013, 09:42:55 am
I actually rode my bicycle today, but only because one of my lovely co-workers is giving cycling another try and asked for a guide on the ride in.  I'm glad she asked because otherwise I would have come in on the Tube.  Again.  (though what I really wanted to do this morning was not get out of bed!)

Though a bit murky, it was a nice ride in.  Only down side was failure to spot either jurek or NSTN.

I think I'm on escort duty the next two mornings as well, so perhaps this will kick my mojo back into action.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 10 April, 2013, 11:13:30 am
Lovely weather here today - my second day in shorts all year (the first was a warm fluke in early January).

Then I go and spoil it by falling off on gravel. The rear mech has disintigrated and I've ripped the bar tape. After walking it back I picked up the singlespeed and rode in.

Since then I've also had a decent quantitiy of salty grit removed from my right knee (otherwise I'm fine).

That's two broken bikes in two days - who did I upset?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 April, 2013, 05:17:59 pm
Bah!  That's rotten.  Heal well.  Hope the bikes are easily fixed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 10 April, 2013, 05:18:46 pm
As it looked nice, I thought I'd use today as an excuse to give my new folding bicycle (I bought it weeks ago, but it's been sitting out the nasty weather in the shed) a test ride to the office and up to Highgate to sort out a visa for parts foreign. I've never ridden a folder before (well, I test rode a Brompton some time back). It's an Oyama thing as recommended by a few forumites. Cheap and cheerful.

Far better ride than I expected, more upright than I am used to, but that's quite nice in London traffic. I felt positively Dutch. Hub gears are a bit of a revelation, though I only have the three, so I have to spin a lot more. Probably not a bad thing, I'm a bit of a pedal masher normally. All said, the commute took about the same time as I usually take on the filthy clunker bike. I was terrified of punctures though as it doesn't have Marathon Pluses on, and I've grown reliant on them. God knows, I don't want to tackle a puncture on a hub geared bike.

There was a comedy moment when the seat post slipped down. I suddenly found myself pedalling chav-style, knees by ears.

Edit: kick-stands. Really, why don't I have one of these on each of my bikes?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 10 April, 2013, 06:38:14 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 10 April, 2013, 09:42:55 am


Though a bit murky, it was a nice ride in.  Only down side was failure to spot either jurek or NSTN.


I've not cycled in at all this week because I'm trying to shake off a stinking cold I've picked up which knocked me for six, and didn't think grinding into a relentless headwind was the way to do it (though I note with pleasure that Jurek reckons the headwind has given it a rest for now.) Taking a sickie five weeks into a new job didn't seem wise, so public transport it is.

I should definitely be back by next week though. I've also got a colleague living nearby thinking of cycling in who seemed quite interested in my offer of escorting her.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 10 April, 2013, 06:45:38 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 10 April, 2013, 06:38:14 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 10 April, 2013, 09:42:55 am


Though a bit murky, it was a nice ride in.  Only down side was failure to spot either jurek or NSTN.


I've not cycled in at all this week because I'm trying to shake off a stinking cold I've picked up which knocked me for six, and didn't think grinding into a relentless headwind was the way to do it (though I note with pleasure that Jurek reckons the headwind has given it a rest for now.) Taking a sickie five weeks into a new job didn't seem wise, so public transport it is.

I should definitely be back by next week though. I've also got a colleague living nearby thinking of cycling in who seemed quite interested in my offer of escorting her.

Sorry to hear you've been unwell.  At least it beats my excuse of general sloth. :(

It looks like my morning escort/teaching duties have finished, but my colleague appreciates the company - and so do I.  Most mornings should see us riding in together (for now), so still stand a chance of spotting you.  Commuting with my colleague guarantees a longer commute for me, plus she's pleasant company. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 10 April, 2013, 07:23:11 pm
I was a bit grumpy about the head wind on my way home tonight, until I suddenly realised, Hey!  The wind is the right way round, at last.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 10 April, 2013, 07:34:18 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 10 April, 2013, 06:38:14 pm
...... (though I note with pleasure that Jurek reckons the headwind has given it a rest for now.) ..........
So it's with little pleasure that I tell you that the headwind has not so much given it a rest as it has changed direction - so going home is now a bit of a grind :( albeit if it was previously a symphony, this one is (thankfully) more like a quartet, IYSWIM.
I'm guessing that were our paths to cross, the only place this'd be likely is where the blue paint crosses Westferry Road, no?
GW and your strength back soon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 10 April, 2013, 07:44:48 pm
The blackthorn's just starting!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 10 April, 2013, 09:39:57 pm
Quote from: clarion on 10 April, 2013, 05:17:59 pm
Bah!  That's rotten.  Heal well.  Hope the bikes are easily fixed.

Thanks. The damage isn't too major on either (broken seat collar bolt and broken rear mech), but enough to take them out of action.

Just had a failure trying to put the mech back together (too bent), but the new seat collar arrived so my tourer is back on the road :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 11 April, 2013, 09:13:04 am
A bit damp this morning, but still enjoyable. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 11 April, 2013, 09:25:46 am
Slightly longer, more upward route home last night as recovery progresses.

Bit of a close one on the way in this morning though. Approaching the width restriction here (https://maps.google.co.uk/maps?q=Cookham+Road,+Maidenhead&hl=en&ll=51.528477,-0.697675&spn=0.000053,0.027423&sll=52.842595,-6.525879&sspn=7.223286,22.412109&oq=cookham+road,+maidenhead&t=h&hnear=Cookham+Rd,+Maidenhead,+United+Kingdom&z=15&layer=c&cbll=51.528553,-0.722223&panoid=4vTpmw4EdPWHqa1KsvwgdA&cbp=12,148.58,,0,15.54), with me in secondary, I was overtaken by a car (we were heading in the same direction as the view). This car got in OK. I was just moving to primary, so was about on the arrow when another car came hooning up behind me. A blue Golf or Polo pulls an overtake and nearly mounts the island in it's haste to regain position. Missed me by about 12 inches. I did the usual sit up and arm out to the side in a WTF? gesture. Blue Golf or Polo was in a queue a few hundred meters up the road. Window opens- "Whats your fucking problem?" asks the driver. "Cocks being given driving licences" I reply as I ride by.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 11 April, 2013, 09:38:43 am
Quote from: fuzzy on 11 April, 2013, 09:25:46 am
Slightly longer, more upward route home last night as recovery progresses.

Bit of a close one on the way in this morning though. Approaching the width restriction here (https://maps.google.co.uk/maps?q=Cookham+Road,+Maidenhead&hl=en&ll=51.528477,-0.697675&spn=0.000053,0.027423&sll=52.842595,-6.525879&sspn=7.223286,22.412109&oq=cookham+road,+maidenhead&t=h&hnear=Cookham+Rd,+Maidenhead,+United+Kingdom&z=15&layer=c&cbll=51.528553,-0.722223&panoid=4vTpmw4EdPWHqa1KsvwgdA&cbp=12,148.58,,0,15.54), with me in secondary, I was overtaken by a car (we were heading in the same direction as the view). This car got in OK. I was just moving to primary, so was about on the arrow when another car came hooning up behind me. A blue Golf or Polo pulls an overtake and nearly mounts the island in it's haste to regain position. Missed me by about 12 inches. I did the usual sit up and arm out to the side in a WTF? gesture. Blue Golf or Polo was in a queue a few hundred meters up the road. Window opens- "Whats your fucking problem?" asks the driver. "Cocks being given driving licences" I reply as I ride by.
I trust the police intelligence officer recorded this inteligence against the numberplate on the PNC database  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 11 April, 2013, 09:44:00 am
Quote from: matthew on 11 April, 2013, 09:38:43 am
Quote from: fuzzy on 11 April, 2013, 09:25:46 am
Slightly longer, more upward route home last night as recovery progresses.

Bit of a close one on the way in this morning though. Approaching the width restriction here (https://maps.google.co.uk/maps?q=Cookham+Road,+Maidenhead&hl=en&ll=51.528477,-0.697675&spn=0.000053,0.027423&sll=52.842595,-6.525879&sspn=7.223286,22.412109&oq=cookham+road,+maidenhead&t=h&hnear=Cookham+Rd,+Maidenhead,+United+Kingdom&z=15&layer=c&cbll=51.528553,-0.722223&panoid=4vTpmw4EdPWHqa1KsvwgdA&cbp=12,148.58,,0,15.54), with me in secondary, I was overtaken by a car (we were heading in the same direction as the view). This car got in OK. I was just moving to primary, so was about on the arrow when another car came hooning up behind me. A blue Golf or Polo pulls an overtake and nearly mounts the island in it's haste to regain position. Missed me by about 12 inches. I did the usual sit up and arm out to the side in a WTF? gesture. Blue Golf or Polo was in a queue a few hundred meters up the road. Window opens- "Whats your fucking problem?" asks the driver. "Cocks being given driving licences" I reply as I ride by.
I trust the police intelligence officer recorded this inteligence against the numberplate on the PNC database  ;)

I have friends......
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 11 April, 2013, 09:44:47 am
Quote from: fuzzy on 11 April, 2013, 09:25:46 am
Slightly longer, more upward route home last night as recovery progresses.

Bit of a close one on the way in this morning though. Approaching the width restriction here (https://maps.google.co.uk/maps?q=Cookham+Road,+Maidenhead&hl=en&ll=51.528477,-0.697675&spn=0.000053,0.027423&sll=52.842595,-6.525879&sspn=7.223286,22.412109&oq=cookham+road,+maidenhead&t=h&hnear=Cookham+Rd,+Maidenhead,+United+Kingdom&z=15&layer=c&cbll=51.528553,-0.722223&panoid=4vTpmw4EdPWHqa1KsvwgdA&cbp=12,148.58,,0,15.54), with me in secondary, I was overtaken by a car (we were heading in the same direction as the view). This car got in OK. I was just moving to primary, so was about on the arrow when another car came hooning up behind me. A blue Golf or Polo pulls an overtake and nearly mounts the island in it's haste to regain position. Missed me by about 12 inches. I did the usual sit up and arm out to the side in a WTF? gesture. Blue Golf or Polo was in a queue a few hundred meters up the road. Window opens- "Whats your fucking problem?" asks the driver. "Cocks being given driving licences" I reply as I ride by.



Please, oh please, oh please … why couldn't you have produced your Warrant card Fuzzers!!!!!!!!!???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 11 April, 2013, 12:45:58 pm
I like to save that for when an argument progresses.....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 11 April, 2013, 12:53:55 pm
… really!!?

What medication is your wife putting in your tea in the morning? Some ginseng-calming-herbal crap?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 11 April, 2013, 01:03:41 pm
My I.D stays firmly in my pocket until such time as I might need to do some laying on of hands.

Any other course of action could, if the viewer of the I.D. feels vindictive enough, result in complaints, investigations and such shit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 11 April, 2013, 02:05:29 pm
To change the mood somewhat...

Last night on my way home I deviated from the path to righteousness the clearing, in order to hunt for the ducklings I saw in the village on Sunday. The buggers have vanished. There were a dozen on Sunday, nursed by 2 or 3 mallard-mums and could I find them? I could not. I went up the lane, round the close, even unto the playing field. Gone. I garnered some eyebrow raising from the resident yoofs who wondered what I was up to, but I wasn't quite brazen enough to ask "Have you seen the ducklings?"

I'll have another look-see tonight. They must be somewhere.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 11 April, 2013, 02:55:56 pm
As a ukc.misc veteran, I'm compelled to ask if anyone has any good duck recipes...   ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 11 April, 2013, 03:51:14 pm
After the moist frontal thighs of righteousness this morning I forgot to ditch the Helly base layer on the way home, so got all sweaty 'n orrible.

I'll get it right one day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 12 April, 2013, 08:52:04 am
Rained heavily here this morning, but an un-wet ride in, but heavens opened up again just as I got to work. Perhaps the Gods are smiling on me, and maybe it's the day to do the Lottery.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 12 April, 2013, 08:55:06 am
Last post from Basel for a bit.  Project has moved temporarily.  Wed night ride (bit delayed post) - having discovered the 20% climb out of Arlesheim had to give it a go.  The first section was about 10% or so, up to the castle, if I had not been on a mission to defeat the hill would have stopped to take photo.  Then I saw the 20% section but it was nowhere near as long or as terrifying as it had seemed on the night descent, probably only about 100m of 20% before it levelled off, so was able to get up it in somewhat ungainly style.  There was nice belvedere section, not so steep and then a final section of about 12% to get to the top.  Cool climb, not as hard as the Hochwald.

Then it was time for some fun.  I descended the lane down to Liestal, narrowly missing a couple of deer (they seem to be the same lethal menace as in the UK, popping out of the undergrowth and causing a slippery rear wheel moment).  I hadn't had time to plan a route but had a vague idea of cutting up another hill to a village and then back in the general direction of Aesch.  It started off fine, got to the village I intended (Lupsingen) and then there was an absence of road signs, so I followed my nose onto to some tiny lanes.  (I'd just missed the road I was looking for) They didn't run out on me and I ended up in another village via the back door.  I turned right and the road kept going for longer than I thought it would.  I saw the town sign for Riegoldswil and ahead were snow covered hills (snow line was about 1000m) so began to worry that I had gone too far and was heading for the Passwang, which would have been an 80km epic.  Fortunately the pass topped out  at 686m and I found myself in Bretzwil, familiar territory for a high speed hoon back home.  55km in 2 hours 20 mins with 800m+ ascent.  Airnimal in fine form.

Next day I had to pack up the Airnimal and the left pedal got stuck.  Hotel Victoria were hugely helpful in getting the bike to a bike shop, who serviced it, so the machine is now all packed up and ready for the hinterlands of Zurich next week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 12 April, 2013, 09:41:58 am
'Twas moist and hard going this morning but hey, I was awheel so was siniging as I rode- various strains of that well known Elbow ditty :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 12 April, 2013, 11:26:49 am
Jealous of the Basel reports. When I was there for a meeting my colleague took me up through Gempen to the tower on top of the hill.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 12 April, 2013, 06:10:43 pm
Ouch!!

first ride home for what feels like months, heavy rain showers. Dodged the last by opening the garage door as the heavens opened.  :D

But OUCH both calves cramped .5miles from home on a fixie at the bottom of a hill. Not sure why, fluids were good, 2 litres of mineral water during a meeting this morning, decent buffet lunch (meeting), and its only 24km home plus I stopped for 45 minutes to visit sister, niece and nephew after 10km. No horrendous hills, just knotted calves and cramping.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 April, 2013, 08:13:35 am
Well, that was a lot more pleasant (and much faster) than I expected.  There was *ahem* no headwind, at least ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 13 April, 2013, 08:48:54 am
Nearly got taken out yesterday AM. Crossing side road crossroads here (https://maps.google.co.uk/maps?q=alsager&hl=en&ll=53.096856,-2.30148&spn=0.003952,0.00729&sll=51.528553,-0.722223&sspn=0.032866,0.058322&t=h&hnear=Alsager,+Cheshire+East,+United+Kingdom&z=18&layer=c&cbll=53.096914,-2.301268&panoid=d0P3V-EGdfseZYBV6RA7Hw&cbp=12,73.69,,0,0), a car stopped at the giveway on the right. Waited until I was just in front of her LH corner, and accelerated directly at me.

I used my YellOfWTF*, and she slammed on the brakes, getting within a couple of feet of me. I looked back, and she was waving apologies. No harm done, but it got the adrenaline pumping - and hopefully she's learned a lesson.


*generally of non specific syllables, but loud.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 14 April, 2013, 01:00:13 pm
Lovely smooth ride in today.  Over 25kph average; over 40kph max; put my foot down just twelve times (I don't trackstand, and I estimate I average about thirty to forty normally.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 15 April, 2013, 08:31:01 am
Well, I was looking forward to the jolly cut and thrust of a more normal commute this morning, but there was even less traffic.
Suely it can't still be Easter?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 15 April, 2013, 08:34:34 am
Seems to be an inset day for a number of the schools round here.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 15 April, 2013, 09:16:11 am
Mitts, shorts, sandals.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 15 April, 2013, 09:28:24 am
Crikey. Are people stopping and pointing at you? And not in a good way?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 15 April, 2013, 09:38:17 am
Quote from: matthew on 15 April, 2013, 08:34:34 am
Seems to be an inset day for a number of the schools round here.
That's the case round us as well. Distinctly low levels of traffic in SW London and Kingston.

But more to the point, today was my first day on the bike since the Wednesday before Easter due to a rather unpleasant bout of the lurgy. Nice to be back, though I appear to have the legs and lungs of someone aout 30 years older. God, I feel awful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 15 April, 2013, 10:42:52 am
It was definitely more crowded on the 07:16 train from Feltham this morning - as expected with everyone going back after Easter.  Not sure about the roads.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 15 April, 2013, 12:42:08 pm
Great ride in today hit 48kph a couple of times. I haven't felt this good for ages.
It was actually a little too warm for my early season gloves. I would have been fine wearing mitts.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 15 April, 2013, 02:33:29 pm
Terrible incident in Norfolk, 31 year old woman on a green Dawes killed near Sheringham, and the 84 year old driver died too, never heard of that before. Very sad, she was on a pilgrimage:

http://www.edp24.co.uk/news/family_pays_tribute_to_beautiful_compassionate_intelligent_and_caring_teacher_who_died_during_cycling_pilgrimage_to_walsingham_1_2018045
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 15 April, 2013, 03:16:44 pm
Dropped the Brompton off for replacement rear triangle surgery on the way in to the office.

Got a few strange looks towing another bike in the trailer and confused the bike shop a little bit. Think they were expecting me to turn up in a car.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Martin109 on 15 April, 2013, 06:43:11 pm
Quote from: Riggers on 11 April, 2013, 09:44:47 am
Quote from: fuzzy on 11 April, 2013, 09:25:46 am
Slightly longer, more upward route home last night as recovery progresses.

Bit of a close one on the way in this morning though. Approaching the width restriction here (https://maps.google.co.uk/maps?q=Cookham+Road,+Maidenhead&hl=en&ll=51.528477,-0.697675&spn=0.000053,0.027423&sll=52.842595,-6.525879&sspn=7.223286,22.412109&oq=cookham+road,+maidenhead&t=h&hnear=Cookham+Rd,+Maidenhead,+United+Kingdom&z=15&layer=c&cbll=51.528553,-0.722223&panoid=4vTpmw4EdPWHqa1KsvwgdA&cbp=12,148.58,,0,15.54), with me in secondary, I was overtaken by a car (we were heading in the same direction as the view). This car got in OK. I was just moving to primary, so was about on the arrow when another car came hooning up behind me. A blue Golf or Polo pulls an overtake and nearly mounts the island in it's haste to regain position. Missed me by about 12 inches. I did the usual sit up and arm out to the side in a WTF? gesture. Blue Golf or Polo was in a queue a few hundred meters up the road. Window opens- "Whats your fucking problem?" asks the driver. "Cocks being given driving licences" I reply as I ride by.



Please, oh please, oh please … why couldn't you have produced your Warrant card Fuzzers!!!!!!!!!???

I've often wanted to say to someone like this, who complains "For all you know, I might be an off-duty police officer.", but don't know if it would be illegal or not!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 15 April, 2013, 07:20:23 pm
Shorts. no jacket (it's worth wearing the YACF jerseys again!  :thumbsup:), fingerless mitts, sunglasses.  ;D
Bit blusterous on the way home, mind...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 16 April, 2013, 12:14:04 pm
Many schools are back. Drivers seem to have forgotten spacial awareness. ::-)
Not too much fun at times.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 16 April, 2013, 12:32:49 pm
On the commute today, I popped in to condor, and came out with a bit of paper. Oops.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 April, 2013, 12:33:51 pm
Oh.  Their bits of paper can be very expensive...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 16 April, 2013, 01:23:52 pm
Ok who switched my commute for a wind tunnel test?

Hoping going home will be as fast as coming in this morning wasn't.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 16 April, 2013, 03:06:29 pm
A very windy day that is getting windier. Peak steady winds at 40+mph, Tay Road Bridge closed to all traffic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 16 April, 2013, 03:13:42 pm
It's 4.4km from my house to the station. The clock was showing 7.31 when I finally set off this morning. I nearly didn't bother trying to catch the 7.39 train, but then I thought sod it, I'll go for it...

And I made it with a good minute to spare.  8)

7mins 22secs. The same journey yesterday morning took over ten minutes, largely thanks to bloody cars holding me up on the descent into town. This morning, I got lucky when I hit the roundabout at the top of the hill, timing it perfectly so I was able to filter through at speed. I was slowed down slightly on the descent again, but not so badly. And there may have been a hint of a tailwind. I might have gone under seven minutes if the road had been completely clear though. Bloody cars.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 16 April, 2013, 03:14:23 pm
London commuters watch out tomorrow morning.  Road closures for the Thatcher funeral from 07:00 (and 09:00 for Millbank, Victoria Street, and Parliament Square).  I usually commute over Westminster Bridge but will do Lambeth or Vauxhall tomorrow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 16 April, 2013, 06:42:48 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 21 December, 2012, 11:59:07 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 12 December, 2012, 10:29:48 am
Another nice HGV Driver. A tipper truck with ‘George Dugdale’ emblazoned on it. I was about to take the turn onto Lambeth Bridge and turned to check he could see me and wasn’t about to try any funny business (lots of vehicles cut you off there). He was deliberately hanging back and smiling at me. I gave him a thumbs-up and made the turn first, safely.

I can’t find an email address for George Dugdale haulage to send him some praise, only a phone number and postal address. I should really stop being so lazy and write them a nice letter. Or send them a Christmas card!!


Despite my general avoidance of snail mail I’ve now sent them a Christmas card complimenting the driver’s behaviour and mentioning the place and date so maybe they can pass it on to him. It's important to encourage good driving.

Well, it took a while and my commute is rather different now, but I have a response...

Quote
I know this have has taken a while but we have just moved office and i found the christmas card you sent me in december regarding the safe lorry driver that was behind you lambeth bridge on the 12th of december. Firstly thank you very much for the card it was a complete surprise and i thank you for taking the time and sourcing our address and sending the card. Please accept my apologies for the late reply but i found it once everything had been cleared out of the old office.
 
Its nice to know some people/cyclists do recognize the patience and good driving of some drivers in around london and i would like to thank you for letting me know as a company.
 
we are in the process of doing a website and i would like to use the card as a foot note on the webpage. As we have gained the FORS award which includes safe driving and that all our drivers have been trained.   
 
Again thank you for the card and hopefully we'll hear from you in due course.

 :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 16 April, 2013, 06:59:16 pm
Notsototalnewbie   :D :D

My commute today was dominated by the wind.  Just from that awkward where it's a head wind both ways.   >:(


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 April, 2013, 07:07:00 pm
I hope the grammar on the website is better, but that's a definite :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 16 April, 2013, 07:39:27 pm
"Some people/cyclists" ??
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 16 April, 2013, 08:40:29 pm
Quote from: SJSBrompton on 16 April, 2013, 03:14:23 pm
London commuters watch out tomorrow morning.  Road closures for the Thatcher funeral from 07:00 (and 09:00 for Millbank, Victoria Street, and Parliament Square).  I usually commute over Westminster Bridge but will do Lambeth or Vauxhall tomorrow.

Indeed, I do Grosvenor Road, Millbank, Lambeth Bridge, Lambeth Palace Road, York Road, *depends on lights*, Upper Ground.

Crossing Vauxhall Bridge Southwards in the morning is hideous courtesy of the wafer thin cycle lane. Lambeth Bridge is generally better but the closed roads will just divert the majority of the idiots that didn't realise what was going on.

I think I'll leave for home much earlier as I'm on the nursery run, and it's Fulham vs Chelsea tomorrow night.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 April, 2013, 09:45:16 pm
Train tomorrow, I'm embarrassed to admit :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 16 April, 2013, 09:47:23 pm
Strictly speaking my Swiss ride wasn't a commute today.  The project has swapped Basel for Zurich for a week (not literally as the two cities are different shapes so it would get messy aronud the edges).  Ummed and ahed about taking the Airnimal out just for a few days but it was already packed up so....

...after a v. long day got going about8.35pm for a quick spin around the Greifensee.  Was just getting going when someone with legs like Spartacus came zooming past so foolish got on to his wheel and did turn and turn about until the Fallanden sign appeared and saved from the usual fate that befalls those trying to hold the wheels of fit Swiss cyclists.  However, had got momentum up so was back at the hotel at 9.50pm with 39km under the best and a broad grin.  First ride in shorts this year - done at night - in a balmy 16C  ;D ;D ;D :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 17 April, 2013, 12:46:29 am
If you get the chance, ride up  Adlisberg, if only to have a laugh when you come across the Dolder Grand (http://www.thedoldergrand.com/en.html) ....  Uetliberg is worth doing, too, but for the view.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 17 April, 2013, 08:09:07 am
Damp  :(

Been wearing shorts all week and seemed a shame to wear trousers so risked it, wasn't so bad.

Drying out over a cup of hot chocolate  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 17 April, 2013, 08:42:03 am
Quote from: davelodwig on 17 April, 2013, 08:09:07 am
Damp  :(

Been wearing shorts all week and seemed a shame to wear trousers so risked it, wasn't so bad.

Drying out over a cup of hot chocolate  :)

But for those of us who didn't set off until 7:45:

Not damp  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 17 April, 2013, 08:58:13 am
Quote from: Greenbank on 16 April, 2013, 08:40:29 pm
Quote from: SJSBrompton on 16 April, 2013, 03:14:23 pm
London commuters watch out tomorrow morning.  Road closures for the Thatcher funeral from 07:00 (and 09:00 for Millbank, Victoria Street, and Parliament Square).  I usually commute over Westminster Bridge but will do Lambeth or Vauxhall tomorrow.

Indeed, I do Grosvenor Road, Millbank, Lambeth Bridge, Lambeth Palace Road, York Road, *depends on lights*, Upper Ground.

Crossing Vauxhall Bridge Southwards in the morning is hideous courtesy of the wafer thin cycle lane. Lambeth Bridge is generally better but the closed roads will just divert the majority of the idiots that didn't realise what was going on.

I think I'll leave for home much earlier as I'm on the nursery run, and it's Fulham vs Chelsea tomorrow night.

Much quieter than I expected! One arsehole van revving behind me as I held him up for 0.3sec (although he did have time to slow down and shout at his closed window) but otherwise fine.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 17 April, 2013, 09:10:44 am
Quote from: Basil on 17 April, 2013, 08:42:03 am
Quote from: davelodwig on 17 April, 2013, 08:09:07 am
Damp  :(

Been wearing shorts all week and seemed a shame to wear trousers so risked it, wasn't so bad.

Drying out over a cup of hot chocolate  :)

But for those of us who didn't set off until 7:45:

Not damp  :)

I left at 7:30

What a difference 15 minutes make.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 17 April, 2013, 09:18:08 am
Traffic on the arterials I crossed between the SE and the NE of Londres royally [sic] stuffed.
But not for me on my (Tebbit stylee) bike. :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 17 April, 2013, 09:47:45 am
it was bumper to bumper traffic jam all the way, few closed roads as well (saw couple of cyclists stopped and being issued tickets), took me 15mins longer to get to work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 17 April, 2013, 10:00:32 am
Wrrrr wrrrrr wrrrRRRRR chrrrr wrrrrr wrrrrrr chrrrrr wrrRRRR.

I don't think that's a good noise for a bike to make when I pedal hard, but it was an increasing feature of yesterday's ride that took me from the steppes of Greater Croydonia to Highgate and back via the office and the Imax. Ended up having to nurse the bike home, taking care to avoid the normal route up Mount Crystal Palace, and sticking close to the train line so I had a plan B.

I hate mysterious noises of bicyclular doom. It sounds a bit like a mudguard catching but it isn't, it's definitely once per crank rotation. Nothing looks awry: chain goes round, wheel spins, gears change, nothing wobbles. Stupid bike. I'll chip off some dirt, I'd be too embarrassed to take it a bike shop. The drivetrain is, erm, a bit worn. I hope bike abuse isn't a crime.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 17 April, 2013, 10:07:21 am
Tower Hill / Byward Street were practically empty this morning, which was nice.  I don't travel much further west, so avoided any of today's disruptions.

As for last night...
I love it when drivers regulate their speed based on the cyclist in front of them rather than checking their speedometer.  The usual way of confirming this is by the loud scraping sound when the driver hits a speed bump faster than he/she would normally do.  ;D  Yes, driver, cyclists can travel at 20mph and faster, without having to slow down for speed bumps.   :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 17 April, 2013, 10:12:49 am
Quote from: ian on 17 April, 2013, 10:00:32 am
Wrrrr wrrrrr wrrrRRRRR chrrrr wrrrrr wrrrrrr chrrrrr wrrRRRR.

I don't think that's a good noise for a bike to make when I pedal hard, but it was an increasing feature of yesterday's ride that took me from the steppes of Greater Croydonia to Highgate and back via the office and the Imax. Ended up having to nurse the bike home, taking care to avoid the normal route up Mount Crystal Palace, and sticking close to the train line so I had a plan B.

I hate mysterious noises of bicyclular doom. It sounds a bit like a mudguard catching but it isn't, it's definitely once per crank rotation. Nothing looks awry: chain goes round, wheel spins, gears chain, nothing wobbles. Stupid bike. I'll chip off some dirt, I'd be too embarrassed to take it a bike shop. The drivetrain is, erm, a bit worn. I hope bike abuse isn't a crime.

Does it only happen in the big ring? if so check your right crank isn't touching the front mech!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 17 April, 2013, 10:22:29 am
Quote from: matthew on 17 April, 2013, 10:12:49 am
Quote from: ian on 17 April, 2013, 10:00:32 am
Wrrrr wrrrrr wrrrRRRRR chrrrr wrrrrr wrrrrrr chrrrrr wrrRRRR.

I don't think that's a good noise for a bike to make when I pedal hard, but it was an increasing feature of yesterday's ride that took me from the steppes of Greater Croydonia to Highgate and back via the office and the Imax. Ended up having to nurse the bike home, taking care to avoid the normal route up Mount Crystal Palace, and sticking close to the train line so I had a plan B.

I hate mysterious noises of bicyclular doom. It sounds a bit like a mudguard catching but it isn't, it's definitely once per crank rotation. Nothing looks awry: chain goes round, wheel spins, gears chain, nothing wobbles. Stupid bike. I'll chip off some dirt, I'd be too embarrassed to take it a bike shop. The drivetrain is, erm, a bit worn. I hope bike abuse isn't a crime.

Does it only happen in the big ring? if so check your right crank isn't touching the front mech!!

Unfortunately, the noise is the same on the middle ring. It seems to come from somewhere around the rear axle or mech. Of course, it's hard to tell when on the bike, and it's one of those noises that doesn't happen without weight on the pedals, so if you get off, lift the back and give the cranks a turn, nothing. I need to take a look in daylight and see if there's anything obvious. Something must be catching somewhere because it's that kind of noise.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Vince on 17 April, 2013, 11:55:17 am
Quote from: ian on 17 April, 2013, 10:00:32 am
Wrrrr wrrrrr wrrrRRRRR chrrrr wrrrrr wrrrrrr chrrrrr wrrRRRR.

I had a similar noise this morning, so I disengaged the dynamo, then I disengaged the dynamo again, and again after every bump for about 20 km then I just ran with the lights on as there were too many bumps.
I have now re-perfected my foot operation of the dynamo. I really must finish the new hub dynamo wheel.
Other than that it was a really nice ride, couple of spots of rain and kept up a 24kmh average.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Reg.T on 17 April, 2013, 01:08:34 pm
Had a bit of an arse trying to overtake aggressively about 1/2 mile from home. Went back past him about 7 miles later in queueing traffic in central Bath, and gave him a friendly wave.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 17 April, 2013, 05:21:06 pm
Anyone here familiar with Camden Park Road in Bromley?

I need to get to Orpington this evening, which is simply a case of extending my usual ride to Bromley by a few miles. Google Maps is suggesting a route via Camden Park Road, but looking on Streetview, it appears to be gated at both ends. Are cyclists allowed to use it? And if not, what are the chances of running into bother if I use it anyway?

I'm pleasantly amazed that Google Maps has turned up what looks like a much nicer route than I probably would have used otherwise.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 17 April, 2013, 05:38:08 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 17 April, 2013, 05:21:06 pm
Anyone here familiar with Camden Park Road in Bromley?

I need to get to Orpington this evening, which is simply a case of extending my usual ride to Bromley by a few miles. Google Maps is suggesting a route via Camden Park Road, but looking on Streetview, it appears to be gated at both ends. Are cyclists allowed to use it? And if not, what are the chances of running into bother if I use it anyway?

I'm pleasantly amazed that Google Maps has turned up what looks like a much nicer route than I probably would have used otherwise.

I'm pretty sure I rode down it once (but I was lost and all of Chislehurst is made out of golf courses and trees), but you should be able to scoot through the pedestrian entrances. Possibly the locals will chase and attempt to burn you. You could try wrapping yourself in pages from the Daily Mail, like a human fish supper, which will assuredly deflect the nefarious intentions of the Chislehurstians and have them welcome you as one of their own.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 17 April, 2013, 05:40:03 pm
Good God! That was dangerously gusty.  Being blown all over the place on the Bristol Road was very un-nerving.  And the sudden side gusts always seemed to happen just as some git moton wanted to check the dimensions of a rizla paper.  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 17 April, 2013, 05:41:06 pm
Quote from: ian on 17 April, 2013, 05:38:08 pm
Chislehurst is made out of golf courses and trees

My wife has friends who live in Chislehurst. From the sound of it, they're probably fairly typical of the local fauna.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 17 April, 2013, 05:58:03 pm
Quote from: Basil on 17 April, 2013, 05:40:03 pm
Good God! That was dangerously gusty.  Being blown all over the place on the Bristol Road was very un-nerving.  And the sudden side gusts always seemed to happen just as some git moton wanted to check the dimensions of a rizla paper.  :(

That makes me feel a bit better about not going out...

*ignores convenient three-wheeler*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Specializta on 17 April, 2013, 06:13:20 pm
Panniers turning the bike into a sailboat doesn't help. Mind you coming down the Stratford Road it was mostly head on so at least not getting pushed into oncoming traffic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 17 April, 2013, 06:39:24 pm
As I was getting on the bike to come home at lunchtime (I live close enough to work to make this practical and it's my default when I can't be bothered to ride any further) I noticed that the back mudguard was loose.  It's held on by one bolt, or it was!  I have bad memories of a friend going face first into a road due to a mudguard malfunction (admittedly the front one in his case) so I decided to come back to work in the car.
Rather glad I did.  OK a Kangoo II has all the aerodynamics of a brick, particularly from the side, but it's worrying when a car of that size is being blown sideways like that.  I gave the only cyclist I passed a very wide berth!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 17 April, 2013, 06:49:16 pm
Very little chance of being blown into traffic on my commute in London, mainly because the wind was directly in my face the entire way home. Turned a 25 minute commute into a 40 minute commute. No time left to go via the LBS to stock up on tubes.

Ah well, good training for the headwind going into work tomorrow I supposed, at least I'll be putting the bike on the train to come home tomorrow night after n pints.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 17 April, 2013, 07:17:37 pm
Got blown in. Cretinous driver pulled up on my left to turn right across me. Needless to say he wasn't quick enough off the mark to actually do it.

Have now learned the dodgy route through St Werburghs and St Paul's to work. It's faster. Headwind expected when I get off this train at Yatton.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 17 April, 2013, 08:17:02 pm
The super-fast return tonight had nothing was not entirely to do with the wind. I know this as TRUFAX because I was faster this morning than yesterday morning, and faster this afternoon than yesterday afternoon.

I have one crossroads on my route. There's nothing there at 5:55am, ever, but at 5:05pm it's a different story- streams of cars leaving BSE. I usually have a lengthy wait. It's longer than it should be if you're gazing glaekit at traffic driving away and don't notice the van stopped to let you out.  :facepalm:

I reckon it might be spring. Wheel flippin' time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 17 April, 2013, 09:38:17 pm
Quote from: fboab on 17 April, 2013, 08:17:02 pm
... glaekit ...

That one may require subtitles  :)

In the local comedy stage show 'Scotland the What', the pub in the mythical town of Auchterturra was the 'Glaekit Stirk'.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 17 April, 2013, 09:48:44 pm
Windy  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 17 April, 2013, 10:13:35 pm
Pretty horrible story running on Twitter about a cyclist in London this afternoon who was beaten up and left with concussion by the driver of this car

pic.twitter.com/G83yhohy9O (http://pic.twitter.com/G83yhohy9O)

Apparently the Met police were called but didn't bother to turn up (no surprise there).  Happily the person who took this photo also got a shot of the driver and took witness details and statements (well done, Beth Anderson) so it's going to be hard for the Met to be its usual completely uninterested self. 

If you're a twitter user and want the full story, follow @roseofwinter
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 17 April, 2013, 10:20:08 pm
Well, the verdict is that Camden Park Road is a very pleasant cycle route. And I managed to avoid getting beaten to death with a rolled up copy of the Telegraph. Not only is the road gated, most of the houses are gated too. Mock-Tudortastic.

There's a bit of a lump about halfway along the road. I was pleasantly surprised again when I got home to discover I'd placed 8th on the associated Strava segment AND I WASN'T EVEN TRYING.  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 17 April, 2013, 10:22:51 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 17 April, 2013, 10:13:35 pm
Pretty horrible story running on Twitter about a cyclist in London this afternoon who was beaten up and left with concussion by the driver of this car

That's a pretty darn appalling story. The lack of appropriate police response is disgusting.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 17 April, 2013, 10:34:42 pm
Quote from: Ham on 17 April, 2013, 12:46:29 am
If you get the chance, ride up  Adlisberg, if only to have a laugh when you come across the Dolder Grand (http://www.thedoldergrand.com/en.html) ....  Uetliberg is worth doing, too, but for the view.

Thanks for the recommendation, Ham.  I headed out from Oerlikon to Deubendorf and then up a good climb through Gockhausen to the eastern side of the Adlisberg, but I turned off before the descent towards Zurich so missed the Dolder  :(  through Witikon, Ebmatingen, Aesch and over the mountain to Erlenbach.  Tried to take some photos of the stunning views down to the lake but it was too dark for my little camera. A shortway along the lake and then I climbed back through Zollikon and Zollicherberg to a little place called Trichtenhusen, where a newly surfaced road ramps up at about 20% for a short way back to Witikon and retrace steps back to Oerlikon.

It was a warm, clear, beautiful evening, wearing shorts again  ;D and arrived back at the hotel at 10:05 for a well-earned rosti.  Not sure about the weather tomorow so this may be the last Swiss adventure for the Airnimal for 3 or 4 weeks.

However, have probably made enough sales of the wee beastie to start applying for commission.  Everyone wants to know about the race bike that gets packed into a suitcase that can be checked in as normal baggage at the airport.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 17 April, 2013, 10:47:35 pm
Went to see a friend in west London this evening. Couldn't see a nice route west-east (not without me stopping and looking at the map every five minutes anyway) so I went along the canal from Limehouse to Islington and then put the Brommie on the overground when there was no more canal left.

I'm not a massive fan of canal cycling (particularly when there's been a series of gropings on that stretch recently according to the local rag) but it was such a pleasant sunny evening and it was nice to be well away from cars. Shame about the utter cocks on bikes who appeared to think they were on a race track rather than pootling as they should have been on a fairly busy towpath, but they were in the minority.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PAC on 17 April, 2013, 10:47:55 pm
I'd rather be in Switzerland.... :)

Still, 42k ride back from Oxford this evening in probably the most ferocious headwind I can ever remember riding in...blxxdy nightmare!  Just checked the forecast & looks like it'll be blowing again tomorrow...happily as a tailwind ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 18 April, 2013, 07:33:57 am
Bloody windy this morning. Coming downhill on smooth tarmac, pushing the pedals, I managed a princely 13mph!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 18 April, 2013, 07:38:14 am
So you will pleased to know that there is one more day of fine weather here in Zurich - 20C and mostly sunny.  I fly back early tomorrow morning but they have a baby weather forecast for the next 3 days (wet and windy).  For once my timing was perfect. And I did debate bothering to take the Airnimal out this week.    :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 18 April, 2013, 08:56:26 am
That wind was NOT fun.  >:(   At least it stayed dry.

Higher than average number of numpties on the road this morning - may moan about them on more appropriate threads.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 18 April, 2013, 09:00:10 am
Wind and more wind- as I rode down Peckham Rye, I was nearly taken out by a pretty hefty side gust sweeping across the open parkland.  Lucky it was so early in the morning and no real traffic to speak of, or I may have been a bit squidged.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimC on 18 April, 2013, 09:00:49 am
Quote from: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 17 April, 2013, 10:34:42 pm

However, have probably made enough sales of the wee beastie to start applying for commission.  Everyone wants to know about the race bike that gets packed into a suitcase that can be checked in as normal baggage at the airport.

Try this one - that's the case behind it (yes, it goes as normal baggage!).

(http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b330/TimC_1955/Bikes/Ritcheycontd002.jpg)

Here's one in its case:

(http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b330/TimC_1955/Bikes/Ritcheyincase.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 18 April, 2013, 09:11:04 am
Windy, windy, windy.
It's the sideways clench-inducing stuff I particularly dislike.
Did I mention that it's windy?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 18 April, 2013, 09:17:45 am
I rode in today.

It felt good.

I haven't ridden to work for (fx:fingers, thumbs & toes) four weeks, on account of an Oomeleg.  The mojo was willing but the flesh was weak (and a bit swollen).  Several weeks of RICE later and it's almost good as new.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: francisbarton on 18 April, 2013, 11:29:20 am
Nothing of interest to report, just my first commute in by bike for several months. Have been bikeless for nearly 7 weeks following a Surly Cross Check frame failure >:( (it's taken me that long to get around to building up a spare frame), so this morning was my first proper ride since beginning of March. I have some catching up to do.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 18 April, 2013, 11:44:12 am
Quote from: Andrij on 18 April, 2013, 08:56:26 am
Higher than average number of numpties on the road this morning

Ah, so it wasn't just me being oversensitive then. Feel too jaded to rant about it though.

Likewise with the feckin' wind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 18 April, 2013, 12:39:13 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 18 April, 2013, 09:11:04 am
Windy, windy, windy.
It's the sideways clench-inducing stuff I particularly dislike.
Did I mention that it's windy?

I couldn't have put it better myself & even took a completely different route in this morning to avoid the busy roads.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 18 April, 2013, 12:43:32 pm
Well I'm going to mention blustery, which seems to have been embarrassingly omitted!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 18 April, 2013, 02:37:28 pm
I got nabbed by the fuzz this morning.

In a nice way, they marked up my bike and saddle for free in Battersea Park.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 18 April, 2013, 04:19:47 pm
I went to the hospital at lunchtime for an eye checkup.  They dilated my pupils.  If youi've never had this done, this gives you the vision of an earthworm for four hours and you're especially told not to drive to the appointment  Cycling back was "interesting".

4 hours and 15 minutes later, and I can *just* use the laptop without reading glasses.  For the first three hours I couldn't even read the large-print letter they sent me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 18 April, 2013, 04:31:12 pm
Quote from: rogerzilla on 18 April, 2013, 04:19:47 pm
I went to the hospital at lunchtime for an eye checkup.  They dilated my pupils.  If youi've never had this done, this gives you the vision of an earthworm for four hours and you're especially told not to drive to the appointment  Cycling back was "interesting".

4 hours and 15 minutes later, and I can *just* use the laptop without reading glasses.  For the first three hours I couldn't even read the large-print letter they sent me.

Oh I only made that mistake once.

Pushed my Brompton the 3 miles home from Hammersmith. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lordy on 18 April, 2013, 06:07:02 pm
Head wind on cycle path to Bath this morning, then headwind coming back home.....at least it's sunny  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 18 April, 2013, 06:15:50 pm
Got the full package on the way home. Thunder, lightning,rain hail like airgun pellets....then the sun came out.  By the time I got home my shorts were dry.

Jolly good fun....apart from the even worse driving than usual.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 18 April, 2013, 07:33:43 pm
This morning; a roe deer trotting along about 4 or 5 bike lengths ahead of me for a few dozen yards.  Close enough to make out the velvet on its antlers.

This evening; tail-wind wheeeee! *cough* 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 18 April, 2013, 08:39:36 pm
Took the bike on the train this morning, 15 miles due west.

Looked out the window at 2pm to see the hail bouncing down the road and feared the worst.

left work at 6:45pm in beautiful sunlight and rode the 15 miles home, with a tail wind assist.  :thumbsup:

Home an hour later to find the road behind the house closed by the police due to the level crossing having failed in the closed position.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 18 April, 2013, 08:42:54 pm
Tim C - like it  :thumbsup:

Phase 2 of Swiss project was finished today so next commute will be Basingstoke Uxbridge Basingstoke.  However, was able to finish at 5pm today so at 5.15pm was on the bike leaving Oerlikon.  Followed my nose out to Dubendorf, Volketswil where I missed the turn and had to to a busy junction near the motorway to get back to the gentle climb up through Gutenswil to Fehraltorf.   Am getting a better understanding of where the Swiss hide their cycle paths.  They have a mysterious habit of cropping up on the other side of the road and if you weren't telepathic enough to see the tiny sign you find yourslef having to cross the road and bunny hop the curb to get on to them.  There was a lot of traffic in Fehraltorf through to Pfaffikon but as soon as I turned off to Oberhittnau the traffic disappeared as did useful signposts.  After about 3 circuits of the little roundabout in Oberhittnau guessed the correct way up an entertaining little climb with banks full of oxlips up to Durstelen.  From there it was an motorbike-chasing descent down to the main road through Bauma.

I'd been heading for a climb I'd seen on Google Maps to an 1103m summit, Hornli, but after a few hundred metres of steep climb the road turned to gravel and I decided (given that I had to pack up the Airnimal on my return) that this was not a good idea and so returned via Wetzikon for a 74km jaunt.

The temperature outside the pharmacy that showed 21C on the way out showed 18C on the way back.  But it didn't tell me about the block headwind that persisted all the way home.  The weather is changing here tomorrow but I will be on the 7:05 to Heathrow for 3 weeks in the UK before going back out to Basel, the Nunningerberg and the Passwang....... :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PAC on 18 April, 2013, 09:13:36 pm
Much better ride back to Oxford this morning with a sort of tail/cross wind..31.7kph av ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 18 April, 2013, 09:22:17 pm
This is the first week that I've used the high gear of the SRC3 hub (80") on the flat  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 18 April, 2013, 09:34:27 pm
After a pint or two $colleague announces she still wants to cycle home, and in her work clothes.  So I packed my cycling gear into the pannier, tucked my trousers into my socks, and off we went.  Barely in sight of the Tower she declares "Let's take the scenic route!".  Down to the Thames we go, following my Thames Path Meander route in reverse, enjoying the mild temperature, clear skies, and the onset of dusk.

I don't care if I get rained on tomorrow, or encounter a numpty at every junction - all I'll need to do is recall this evening and remember why I love cycling.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 19 April, 2013, 06:27:17 am
She's taking the bait, isn't she?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 19 April, 2013, 08:47:45 am
Quote from: Andrij on 18 April, 2013, 09:34:27 pm
After a pint or two $colleague announces she still wants to cycle home, and in her work clothes.  So I packed my cycling gear into the pannier, tucked my trousers into my socks, and off we went.  Barely in sight of the Tower she declares "Let's take the scenic route!".  Down to the Thames we go, following my Thames Path Meander route in reverse, enjoying the mild temperature, clear skies, and the onset of dusk.

I don't care if I get rained on tomorrow, or encounter a numpty at every junction - all I'll need to do is recall this evening and remember why I love cycling.  :thumbsup:

I can understand.  Up to 2 years ago, when I started multi mode commuting with the Brommie, I hadn't ridden a bike since senior school (when I used to ride to school on my reliable Raleigh with 20" wheels and the hinge in the middle). Thats  :-[ a good 20 plus years.

Sometimes when the weather is nice, and you are feeling good, you just want to have a blast (or a slow poodle on a scenic route).

Keeping up the Thames theme - any decent riverside routes west from Chelsea Bridge area?  When I am on the train I see people cycling round the industrial area by Wandsworth, the other side of the river.  I'd come down from Victoria to Chelsea Bridge via the Barclays Superhighway but not sure whether to continue North or South of the river, and where I'd end up in terms of folding the Brommie and getting the train for the rest of the journey to Feltham.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 19 April, 2013, 09:02:09 am
Quote from: Jurek on 19 April, 2013, 06:27:17 am
She's taking the bait, isn't she?

Looks like it.  ;D

She's happy using a Doris Bike for now, no plans to buy her own bike.  That said, she's cycled in every day this week and home 3 (maybe 4, depends how this evening turns out).  This morning she took her first scalp, completely unprompted by me. *beamswithpride*  I shall also have my first full house in ages after this evening, so happiness all around.

SJSBrompton, I'll give your query some thought, but suspect someone else will jump in before me.  I don't cycle out that way very often so can't rattle off routes off the top of my head.  BUT, I have cycled along both bank of the river out that way - just need to look at some maps as a refresher.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 19 April, 2013, 09:15:38 am
Quote from: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 18 April, 2013, 08:42:54 pm
Tim C - like it  :thumbsup:

Phase 2 of Swiss project was finished today so next commute will be Basingstoke Uxbridge Basingstoke.  However, was able to finish at 5pm today so at 5.15pm was on the bike leaving Oerlikon.  Followed my nose out to Dubendorf, Volketswil where I missed the turn and had to to a busy junction near the motorway to get back to the gentle climb up through Gutenswil to Fehraltorf.   Am getting a better understanding of where the Swiss hide their cycle paths.  They have a mysterious habit of cropping up on the other side of the road and if you weren't telepathic enough to see the tiny sign you find yourslef having to cross the road and bunny hop the curb to get on to them.  There was a lot of traffic in Fehraltorf through to Pfaffikon but as soon as I turned off to Oberhittnau the traffic disappeared as did useful signposts.  After about 3 circuits of the little roundabout in Oberhittnau guessed the correct way up an entertaining little climb with banks full of oxlips up to Durstelen.  From there it was an motorbike-chasing descent down to the main road through Bauma.

I'd been heading for a climb I'd seen on Google Maps to an 1103m summit, Hornli, but after a few hundred metres of steep climb the road turned to gravel and I decided (given that I had to pack up the Airnimal on my return) that this was not a good idea and so returned via Wetzikon for a 74km jaunt.

The temperature outside the pharmacy that showed 21C on the way out showed 18C on the way back.  But it didn't tell me about the block headwind that persisted all the way home.  The weather is changing here tomorrow but I will be on the 7:05 to Heathrow for 3 weeks in the UK before going back out to Basel, the Nunningerberg and the Passwang....... :smug:

You Sir, are a Git. A justifiably Smug Git but, a Git none the less.

 ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 19 April, 2013, 04:53:52 pm
Not a commute, but a ride out to the supermarket...and George is in need of new brake blocks, so I left him indoors and dug out Sarah, who hasn't been ridden since I did the WNBR in Brighton.

Old-school Dawes Sardar, of the kind Mrs Pingu used to ride. Pumped in the air, lubed the chain (no real need) and off. The 26" wheels made the steering twitchy till I settled into it, but it was a delight to rediscover what a nice ride she is. The gearing is a little lower than on George, so I was spinning a little more into the wind, but I actually enjoyed lugging a full shopping load back.

I might be getting a little of my own mojo back.
 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 19 April, 2013, 05:39:39 pm
another day, another ride home  :thumbsup:

Called in on Sister, BiL, Niece and Nephew on route.  :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 19 April, 2013, 05:44:24 pm
Nasty looking incident at corner of Clerkenwell Rd into Grays Inn Rd - left turning tipper truck & person on boris bike. Absolutely loads of cops so does not sound good.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 19 April, 2013, 09:22:06 pm
Ride in this morning:

The wind had turned around since last night, so last night’s headwind was this morning’s headwind. But it wasn’t blowing a gale. I was quite a bit slower up the big hill I first rode yesterday. I caught a couple of riders near the top, one on fixed. They overtook again on the descent on the other side.

Evening ride:

On the way home went into Cabot Circus to get my hair cut (it’s been left too long and needed it). Then I went to Temple Meads and got myself a baguette and a coffee, and thought I wasn’t going to get my bike on the train (125 with 6 spaces). But everyone got on with two bikes against the wall at the end. I ate my baguette and coffee on the train while two other cyclists discussed the cycle to work scheme and stuff. Then, I got off the train at Yatton, in still air, and bright evening sunshine, and set off. It’s so much nicer commuting home in daylight. On Nye Rd after Puxton first of all a Golden Retriever in a garden beside the road said hello, then I came up behind a pony and trap driven by a couple of teenagers. In a field on the left, a cow saw this and decided to run alongside, which set the entire herd off. On the right hand side two horses in another field joined in the fun. When the driver of the trap became aware of my presence (squeaky brakes) they sped up a bit to get to a wider section (it’s a single track road with passing places) and pulled over a bit to let me past when there was space, as I thanked them and commented on the nice evening. Then there were two ducks watching from the next field.

On I went, past the sewage works, but the wind was in the right direction, so it was good. Up through Winscombe, and the sun was just about to set, so lights on. Up onto the A38, and passing Sidcot the view opens out to the right looking back over where I’d come from, and there was a beautiful post-sunset glow in the sky and on the clouds. And shortly afterwards, I was home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Martin 14 on 19 April, 2013, 09:55:45 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 19 April, 2013, 09:02:09 am
Quote from: Jurek on 19 April, 2013, 06:27:17 am
She's taking the bait, isn't she?

Looks like it.  ;D

She's happy using a Doris Bike for now, no plans to buy her own bike.  That said, she's cycled in every day this week and home 3 (maybe 4, depends how this evening turns out).  This morning she took her first scalp, completely unprompted by me. *beamswithpride*  I shall also have my first full house in ages after this evening, so happiness all around.

SJSBrompton, I'll give your query some thought, but suspect someone else will jump in before me.  I don't cycle out that way very often so can't rattle off routes off the top of my head.  BUT, I have cycled along both bank of the river out that way - just need to look at some maps as a refresher.
I'm sure she would like a nice pinarello :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 22 April, 2013, 08:53:32 am
Greenwich foot tunnel - anti-cycling barriers removed \0/ Yay! Let's have a marathon every weekend!

Took the Scott today, arrived at work to experience one of those'buggrit-here-already' moments.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 22 April, 2013, 10:15:06 am
Just realised that my bottom bracket has gone on the commuter.
Not a bad lifespan really. About 3 years I think.

I suspect that there will be a few other components that are in need of more detailed inspection from now on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 22 April, 2013, 10:45:32 am
Quote from: alexb on 22 April, 2013, 10:15:06 am
Just realised that my bottom bracket has gone on the commuter.
Not a bad lifespan really. About 3 years I think.

I suspect that there will be a few other components that are in need of more detailed inspection from now on.

Same here, the whole drive train needs replacing after 3 years of 3k a year, about £180 the LBS say. My bike's like Trigger's broom now, only the frame and bars are original.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 22 April, 2013, 11:04:36 am
The only parts left on mine are the frame, forks & front mudguard. And I'm just about to change the frame & forks. If/when I change the front mudguard, does it become a new bike?

Quote
only the frame and bars are original.

If you've ridden enough to wear out both wheels, you might want to think about changing the bars - they don't last forever and when they do go it can be quite 'interesting'.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Vince on 22 April, 2013, 11:14:40 am
Quote from: Pickled Onion on 22 April, 2013, 11:04:36 am
The only parts left on mine are the frame, forks & front mudguard. And I'm just about to change the frame & forks. If/when I change the front mudguard, does it become a new bike?
No. Its just a new generation of the original bike. It got confusing for me when parts of one bike were installed on two different bikes - common ancestry.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 22 April, 2013, 11:39:46 am
Is it like Dr Who? Regeneration?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Vince on 22 April, 2013, 12:02:11 pm
Very similar, but without the fish fingers and custard
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 22 April, 2013, 12:31:46 pm
Quote from: Pickled Onion on 22 April, 2013, 11:04:36 am
The only parts left on mine are the frame, forks & front mudguard. And I'm just about to change the frame & forks. If/when I change the front mudguard, does it become a new bike?

I'm not very good at maths, but this question had me thinking in terms of an equation:

b - o/b + s/b (x m) = n

where:

b = current (accepted/approved) bike
o/b = obsolete/boring/otherwise unwanted fraction of b
s/b = shiny new fraction of b
m = the number of times necessary for -o/b+s/b to result in n
n = new bike

I bet I've messed that up (like, the brackets should be elsewhere), but you get my drift.

And a 'new' bike!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimC on 22 April, 2013, 12:48:56 pm
This is an old bike, with some replacement parts. It was built after I crashed and trashed my Cannondale, with the intention of using all its bits on a new frame. But the bars, stem, post and wheels came from another bike that I had recently upgraded. The 'Dale couldn't take guards, so they were new. The front mech from the 'Dale had a different internal clamp diameter, so I bought a new one. The brakes from the Cannondale are short-drop, and this frame needed long-drop brakes, so they're new. The saddle and the chainset did come from the 'Dale, but are not the original items. See the rear mech? That's from the original bike. So this is definitely not a new bike.

(http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b330/TimC_1955/Bikes/DSC01617_zps88f616f9.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 22 April, 2013, 12:55:01 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 22 April, 2013, 10:45:32 am
Quote from: alexb on 22 April, 2013, 10:15:06 am
Just realised that my bottom bracket has gone on the commuter.
Not a bad lifespan really. About 3 years I think.

I suspect that there will be a few other components that are in need of more detailed inspection from now on.

Same here, the whole drive train needs replacing after 3 years of 3k a year, about £180 the LBS say. My bike's like Trigger's broom now, only the frame and bars are original.

Well, having bought this bike specifically to avoid having to do that (been there, done that, got the T-shirt, wore it out and used it to clean the drivetrain...). This bike has an Alfine hub which has been just excellent.

However I have replaced:
Handlebar grips - the originals were horrible
Saddle - for my faithful Brooks Team Pro
Pedals - for SPDs
Numerous chains and rear sprockets - they simply wore out, but at £4 for a sprocket and the same for a chain, this seems reasonable.
Chainring - Shimano cheese chainring wore out in about a year, replaced with a Stronglight to get a slightly better gear ratio, still looks like new.
Brake pads - wear and tear, I get about 6-8 months from a set, not too bad.
Tyres - I'm on my second set, pretty good value, but I use ice studded tyres all through the winter, so my regular tyres get a 4 month "holiday" every year!
2 spokes -  I broke some spokes and then rebuilt the entire rear wheel with the original spokes, plus two new ones.
I also added mudguards and a Carradice saddlebag holder and support, plus lights, a bell (for the dogs on the common), a bottle and cage and my faithful old Zefal XPS pump.

Everything else looks as though it should last pretty well once the worn out bottom bracket has been swapped out.
That said, I have a dynamo hub ready to go, once the new front light arrives...

Paul - I love the looks of that equation.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Vince on 22 April, 2013, 01:20:52 pm
Quote from: Paul on 22 April, 2013, 12:31:46 pm
Quote from: Pickled Onion on 22 April, 2013, 11:04:36 am
The only parts left on mine are the frame, forks & front mudguard. And I'm just about to change the frame & forks. If/when I change the front mudguard, does it become a new bike?

I'm not very good at maths, but this question had me thinking in terms of an equation:

b - o/b + s/b (x m) = n

where:

b = current (accepted/approved) bike
o/b = obsolete/boring/otherwise unwanted fraction of b
s/b = shiny new fraction of b
m = the number of times necessary for -o/b+s/b to result in n
n = new bike

I bet I've messed that up (like, the brackets should be elsewhere), but you get my drift.

And a 'new' bike!

But this formula only works in the single case where o/b = s/b. It fails to take into account the migration of s/b to o/b during the various mutations (m) therefore at any instant b can only tend towards, but never equal n

Something like this

b - (o/b + s/b) - (2o/b + s/2b) - (3o/b + s/3b) etc

I can trace two of my bikes back through numerous (re) generations to my first big wheeled bike given to me on my 11th birthday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 22 April, 2013, 06:44:05 pm
Mojo def back; equalled my personal best of 1hr 14 min for the 25miles
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 22 April, 2013, 06:51:58 pm
Mixed-mode commute in; I had a site visit this morning and didn't want to cycle all the way there (which would have necessitated arriving in sweaty cycling gear which doesn't look so good) so I took the Brommie to the newish bit of the ginger line and let the train take most of the strain on the way there, cycling the last part. This is also quite cheap because the ginger line doesn't go into zone 1. Then after my site visit I pootled down the canal back to my office, where a small dog yapped at me and ran in front of my wheels, and I would have probably hit it if I'd been doing anything like a reasonable speed. Fortunately I only take the canal when I have enough time to pootle slowly.

On the way back I cycled all the way home as I had no more appointments; the wind has changed direction, I see.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 22 April, 2013, 07:47:54 pm
Wimped out of the ride home, sitting down to put cycling shoes on I had chest pains and felt all 'fluttery' and short of breath.   I think I may have overdone it in the Surrey Hills at the weekend.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 22 April, 2013, 10:00:02 pm
A steady 40+ miles today has taken me to just over 3000miles for the year so far  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 23 April, 2013, 09:17:16 am
Back in the UK.  Usual commute into Reading, launching my double-panniered attack from North Hampshire into the edifices of Berkshire.  Sunny, no wind, only a little early morning briskness in the air, just under the hour, no annoying drivers.  Who needs Swiss mountains and roads so smooth you could shave in your reflection... 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 23 April, 2013, 09:21:58 am
Is that Swiss salt you're using to rub in our wounds, or home-grown?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 23 April, 2013, 10:10:58 am
Quote from: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 23 April, 2013, 09:17:16 am
Back in the UK.  Usual commute into Reading, launching my double-panniered attack from North Hampshire into the edifices of Berkshire.  Sunny, no wind, only a little early morning briskness in the air, just under the hour, no annoying drivers.  Who needs Swiss mountains and roads so smooth you could shave in your reflection...

You're still mainlining toblerone, aren't you?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 23 April, 2013, 10:25:47 am
It was a glorious ride in ths morning.

This year, for some reason, I have been feeling the cold and, this morning was my first ride to work in my YACF long sleeve winter weight jersey as opposed to my old Altura airstream windproof jacket.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 23 April, 2013, 10:26:14 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 23 April, 2013, 10:10:58 am
Quote from: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 23 April, 2013, 09:17:16 am
Back in the UK.  Usual commute into Reading, launching my double-panniered attack from North Hampshire into the edifices of Berkshire.  Sunny, no wind, only a little early morning briskness in the air, just under the hour, no annoying drivers.  Who needs Swiss mountains and roads so smooth you could shave in your reflection...

You're still mainlining toblerone, aren't you?

Actually I have a slight food intolerance to chcolate so the abundance of Lindt and Toblerone passed me by.  As my Swiss rides usually took place after a 12 hour working day I ended up living off Thai curries from Mr Wong's as it was the only place open when I got back in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 23 April, 2013, 10:41:51 am
Quote from: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 23 April, 2013, 10:26:14 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 23 April, 2013, 10:10:58 am
Quote from: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 23 April, 2013, 09:17:16 am
Back in the UK.  Usual commute into Reading, launching my double-panniered attack from North Hampshire into the edifices of Berkshire.  Sunny, no wind, only a little early morning briskness in the air, just under the hour, no annoying drivers.  Who needs Swiss mountains and roads so smooth you could shave in your reflection...

You're still mainlining toblerone, aren't you?

Actually I have a slight food intolerance to chcolate so the abundance of Lindt and Toblerone passed me by.  As my Swiss rides usually took place after a 12 hour working day I ended up living off Thai curries from Mr Wong's as it was the only place open when I got back in.

A shame as Basel airport used to (and may still, I can't have bought them all) 4.5 kg bars of Toblerone. It also has a 24-themed (as in the TV programme with The Keifer) pinball machine. Well, by themed, it had no other related attribute other than a big picture of snarling Chloe the grumpy yet diligent CTU analyst on the side.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 23 April, 2013, 03:21:01 pm
Nice ride in this morning, but the wind has picked up.   Going to be a bit blowy over the hill, methinks  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 23 April, 2013, 03:33:59 pm
Quote from: Feanor on 23 April, 2013, 03:21:01 pm
Nice ride in this morning, but the wind has picked up.   Going to be a bit blowy over the hill, methinks  :-\

To paraphrase two oft abusive missives-

In Yer Face or Up Yer Chuff?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 23 April, 2013, 04:51:41 pm
Booked the bike in at Freemans, he says £30 each component for a whole new drive chain, chain, rear mech, basically replace the groupset, £200 all in. Is that reasonable, do you think?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 23 April, 2013, 05:28:07 pm
Sunshine, lots of wind always from the wrong direction, duckies on the river, the company, briefly, of a bunbury in fine fettle, rubbish space in the bike shed as everyone else is back on the bike too, so out of the habit of cycle-commuting that I forgot my school uniform and spent the whole day in jeans, ridiculous driver in a blue car gesturing that I should be over in the potholed scratty cycle lane on the left on the approach to a mini roundabout where I was turning right whilst starting overtaking me right on the approach to the junction (in fairness, quite wide.... so almost completely filling the exit lane of said roundabout, good job there was nobody coming from the right really) and completed her overtake by driving right over the white circle.

Sunshine.  Duckies.  Company, briefly, to natter to.  First cycle-commute of the term.  Possibly of the year.  That'll do. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 23 April, 2013, 11:00:30 pm
Quote from: fuzzy on 23 April, 2013, 03:33:59 pm
Quote from: Feanor on 23 April, 2013, 03:21:01 pm
Nice ride in this morning, but the wind has picked up.   Going to be a bit blowy over the hill, methinks  :-\

To paraphrase two oft abusive missives-

In Yer Face or Up Yer Chuff?

I get a bit of everything!
My commute is C shaped.
So on the ride home,  ( Northbound), I started into a W headwind.   Heading N over the hill, it was mostly a gusty side-wind  Not a problem on the climb, but an embuggerance on the descent. Then, on the last leg, I was heading E with a tailwind!

Ride in, 2h40 is about normal:
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/302375246

Ride home is normally 10 to 15 mins quicker, but not today.
However, notice my speed for the last 30 mins does not drop below 30kph, and is up at about 40 for a fair bit?  That'll be a tail-wind, that will be!
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/302375219
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 24 April, 2013, 12:03:42 am
This morning was my first commute in to central London at rush hour for I don't know how long. The increase in traffic takes me by surprise every time I return to south London's roads after a break but today was something special.

Is there any way of somehow communicating to the poor sods ferrying their children into Dulwich, the fact that Dulwich is now full? I mean it's full up. Like a car park, that's full, of cars. There is no space to fit any more cars. There is no more room for more cars. It is not possible to squeeze any more cars onto the roads and pavements of Dulwich because the roads and pavements of Dulwich are already covered in cars. They don't seem to realise...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 24 April, 2013, 08:54:24 am
My first bike trip and cycle commute since the end of October. My legs have withered over the winter, and my arse is no longer saddle-shaped.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 24 April, 2013, 09:06:12 am
Quote from: spindrift on 23 April, 2013, 04:51:41 pm
Booked the bike in at Freemans, he says £30 each component for a whole new drive chain, chain, rear mech, basically replace the groupset, £200 all in. Is that reasonable, do you think?
Depends on the groupset!

I wouldn't pay it, but I am a tight git.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 24 April, 2013, 09:36:02 am
Quote from: benborp on 24 April, 2013, 12:03:42 am
This morning was my first commute in to central London at rush hour for I don't know how long. The increase in traffic takes me by surprise every time I return to south London's roads after a break but today was something special.

Is there any way of somehow communicating to the poor sods ferrying their children into Dulwich, the fact that Dulwich is now full? I mean it's full up. Like a car park, that's full, of cars. There is no space to fit any more cars. There is no more room for more cars. It is not possible to squeeze any more cars onto the roads and pavements of Dulwich because the roads and pavements of Dulwich are already covered in cars. They don't seem to realise...

But without all those cars how would they get their kids to the posh school at the end of the road?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 24 April, 2013, 10:23:56 am
A couple of hours of fettling of my regular commuting bike last night failed to identify the source of (let alone remedy) the clicking and creaking that's appeared over the last week.

So this morning I took a different bike, the lurid yellow 1980s Rockhopper Comp with teal and fuchsia decals.  Such a nice ride - it felt a bit gloopy and sluggish at first, but it rolls along so steadily, and the fatter tyres make light work of SE London's "road surfaces".  Brakes were duly tested by a left-turning artic in Brockley: ancient cantis operated by giant four-finger levers worked faultlessly.  Old Deore thumbies made the (few) gear changes v easy.  Biopace kicks in nicely when pulling away on the middle ring. 

I arrived at work happy, and the bike is now glowing hideously in the sunshine outside my office.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 24 April, 2013, 10:30:21 am
A most enjoyable ride in this morning.  Isn't the weather grand?  Shame I couldn't keep on cycling instead of going to work.  Last night was nice as well - scenic route interrupted by a stop at Captain Kidd (http://www.fancyapint.com/Pub/london/captain-kidd/181) for a pint.

I've been on my Orbea (https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/pZbfadPkd1Rqk969_gQvZtMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=directlink)* this week and loving it.  Whereas the Hewitt is more comfortable, the Orbea is more fun on the commute as I don't worry about 'abusing' it.  OK, it's a bit slower than my tourer, but both are slower than the Moulton.  The recent swap between bicycles confirms the absolute minimum number of bicycles to won is TWO.  Not just to have a 'spare' one, but to also enjoy the difference between them.

* in Xmas mode, don't ride like that all year 'round.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 24 April, 2013, 10:58:10 am
Lovely weather, but boy you need eyes in the back of your head to cope with the influx if less experienced cyclists. Especially those that like to "buzz" you on both sides when you are starting off from crossings or red lights.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 24 April, 2013, 11:54:47 am
Quote from: spindrift on 23 April, 2013, 04:51:41 pm
Booked the bike in at Freemans, he says £30 each component for a whole new drive chain, chain, rear mech, basically replace the groupset, £200 all in. Is that reasonable, do you think?

What have you done that requires the replacement of so much in one go? If wear-and-tear you might expect chain, cassette and - at a push - a chain ring or two. Jockey wheels on the rear mech maybe.

Something like £100 in parts if it's middle of the road stuff. I don't know what the labour would cost - it's definitely in diy territory if you're reasonably confident/competent.

If you've bashed the rear mech that might need replacing, but (unless appearances are very important) a bent mech can often be bent back.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 24 April, 2013, 12:07:19 pm
It's my six-year old Galaxy, it's done 4k a year for the last three years so he's replacing the cassette, chain and big ring, Freemans in Norwich. He had a Super Galaxy up on the bench, very tasty, last year's version £1125 at Spa Cycles.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 24 April, 2013, 12:11:38 pm
Quote from: Paul on 24 April, 2013, 11:54:47 am
Quote from: spindrift on 23 April, 2013, 04:51:41 pm
Booked the bike in at Freemans, he says £30 each component for a whole new drive chain, chain, rear mech, basically replace the groupset, £200 all in. Is that reasonable, do you think?

 - it's definitely in diy territory if you're reasonably confident/competent.


That's me out. Haven't a scooby about fixing bikes. I only learned the rear mech cog thing is called a cassette yesterday. I'm useless, I'd much rather pay a chap in overalls to do it for me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Vince on 24 April, 2013, 12:15:04 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 24 April, 2013, 12:11:38 pm
I'm useless, I'd much rather pay a chap in overalls to do it for me.

(http://www.theoldbicycleshowroom.co.uk/ekmps/shops/theoldbicycle/resources/Design/bicycle-repair-man.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 24 April, 2013, 12:18:47 pm
Quote from: alexb on 24 April, 2013, 10:58:10 am
Lovely weather, but boy you need eyes in the back of your head to cope with the influx if less experienced cyclists. Especially those that like to "buzz" you on both sides when you are starting off from crossings or red lights.

I too have noticed that with the sunshine comes a large dose of general twattery from some cyclists.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 24 April, 2013, 12:58:26 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 24 April, 2013, 12:18:47 pm
Quote from: alexb on 24 April, 2013, 10:58:10 am
Lovely weather, but boy you need eyes in the back of your head to cope with the influx if less experienced cyclists. Especially those that like to "buzz" you on both sides when you are starting off from crossings or red lights.

I too have noticed that with the sunshine comes a large dose of general twattery from some cyclists.

Who is this General Twattery of whom you speak?

Was he Coldstream or Life Guards?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 24 April, 2013, 01:10:42 pm
Twattery's a General now?

Was only a Major when I knew him!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 24 April, 2013, 08:25:46 pm
Got on the back of Jonny Brownlee going through Cookridge - he was on a Boardman, and I assumed it was just another North Leeds MAMIL. He was doing very short intervals, and I managed to vaguely keep up until the last one up the hill into Bramhope after I'd said I didn't think I'd be holding onto his backwheel on 63" fixed. He then utterly dropped me. He slowed up at the top. Had a brief chat. He's looks so young.

As a bonus, trying to keep up with him got me a Strava PR.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 24 April, 2013, 09:22:52 pm
stopped to fix a puncture for a cyclist pushing her bike along on the pavement. smile on her face - priceless :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 24 April, 2013, 10:19:03 pm
Quote from: zigzag on 24 April, 2013, 09:22:52 pm
stopped to fix a puncture for a cyclist pushing her bike along on the pavement. smile on her face - priceless :)
Star.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 25 April, 2013, 12:38:15 am
"What side of the road do you want to be on you cunt?"

The left. Which is the side that I was on. The fact that I was dragging myself in to the gutter to get out of your way as you drove along the wrong side of the road seemed to placate you in no way at all. You were still shouting obscenities at me while plonked firmly on the wrong side of the road. I'm afraid I joined in.

Taxi drivers. You're not safe from them anywhere.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 25 April, 2013, 12:41:36 am
Quote from: zigzag on 24 April, 2013, 09:22:52 pm
stopped to fix a puncture for a cyclist pushing her bike along on the pavement. smile on her face - priceless :)

Well done!  About the smile - did you check your flies?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 25 April, 2013, 08:33:55 am
I'd said to myself that no matter how I felt, I'd take it easy on the way home last night. Hammered myself on Mon, so need a gentle day.

But then a tractor came along the A64 and I just couldn't help it. The next 6 miles at 50kph, 4ft behind a row of spiky harrows.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 25 April, 2013, 08:49:35 am
I have been idly wondering how big barn owl territories are, the last few weeks. Is the bird I often see before the crossing the same bird I sometimes see after.

I don't know how big their territories are, but it's two birds, I discovered today. Well, there is a small possibility before-crossing owl looped behind me, hammered it wide and then flew ahead to nonchalantly sit in a tree, but I doubt it. After-crossing owl was so close I could count her toes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 25 April, 2013, 09:43:49 am
Slight variation today, as I had a few minutes in hand, which avoided the A23 and went up quieter, parallel lanes.  WVM hove into view, swerved towards my side of the road.  For a moment I thought it was bog standard crap driving, but the non-highway code approved hand signals and garbled (presumed) obscenities suggest such action was deliberate.

I chased him down, dragged him from his cab and gave him a kicking. Ho hum, it's a sunny day and I'm out on my bike, so I win.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 25 April, 2013, 10:44:46 am
I've had barn owls follow me when riding, especially at dawn & dusk.  I think some of them have learnt that the combination of a silent vehicle and a sudden beam of light can flush out small mammals from the verges.  Clever birds.

Uxbridge commute today, dreadful traffic around Slough when the roadside rubbish collection coincided with roadworks.  Much better to have been on two wheels than four  :smug:

Arrived in the office to find the showers were out - but turned out only to be a blown fuse in the light circuit.  So rigged up one of the Lumicycles.  Problem solved.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CJV on 25 April, 2013, 02:54:11 pm
Stream of aggro on London's Oxford St from uptight tosser on a fixie riding home last night who reckoned I was in his way. Then got another earful from a driver chauffeuring a banker to the City in a limo on Trafalgar square at 5.30am today on my way to work.  In my experience these come in threes so I'm expecting another torrent of grief from someone on my way home tonight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dora on 25 April, 2013, 06:55:13 pm
The bats are out at the farm again. They follow me up the lane swooping up over my head for the insects that can't see them :-D

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 25 April, 2013, 07:18:48 pm
Unwelcome hail storm passed over on the way home, but it passed quickly and bright skies re-appeared!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 25 April, 2013, 07:24:59 pm
Two suicidal rabbits this morning.  One far, far too close for comfort; especially as I was hurtling* downhill at the time.


*That is I was travelling slightly over 20mph.  I'm too old and unfit to hurtle properly these days.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 25 April, 2013, 07:49:57 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 25 April, 2013, 07:24:59 pm
I'm too old and unfit to hurtle properly these days.

Ah yes [fx: wibbly wobbly] I remember hurtle.  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: caerau on 25 April, 2013, 09:09:40 pm
A suicidal mountain biker this morning (not on a mountain) who decided he didn't need to give way to traffic from the right - i.e. me on the roundabout within the grounds of Sophia Gardens in Cardiff this morning.

Classic, will I? won't I? not stopping behaviour inevitably ending up with him stopping right in my 20 mph flight path.  How silly of me to expect other road users to do what is expected/in the highway code ::-)

He shouted at me back, but didn't have the balls to actually deal with me eye to eye - I wonder why. <snarl>
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 25 April, 2013, 10:01:03 pm
Gridlock in SE London tonight. Getting home was like basket weaving by bike.  The police had a big chunk of the A2 (major route out to Kent) at Greenwich and Blackheath Hill (a short but testing climb) closed off so that they could conduct a "skid test" with a HGV.  Quite why they would chose to do that during the evening peak is beyond me.

Upshot was that I had to wheel the bike on the pavement for about a mile and a half while the road remained closed and a large number of uniformed men wandered around in hi-viz jackets talking into their radios.  I saw said lorry parked up at the side of the road. Presumably at some point later on they drove it down the hill and hit the brakes to see how much of a skid it would do.

Perhaps one of our boys in blue might be able to illuminate?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 25 April, 2013, 10:39:08 pm
Return commute from Uxbridge - decided to go through Iver and Datchet to avoid the roadworks in Slough and found even more traffic.  Ferrari went past me between Datchet and Windsor and I overtook it when it was stationary in Windsor.  Never saw it again so its now official, Roberts bikes are faster than Ferraris.  :thumbsup:

Decided to head through Shurlock Row to avoid more traffic, but got a nagging headwind instead.  A ride wearing no 1 for a Maidenhead TT passed me so I rode as hard as possible to avoid no 2 passing me and that got me into TT mode.  With light fading fast, that was encouragement to hoon it back home as fast as possible.  81 miles for the day's commute, 17.8mph average.  Those Swiss hills must have put some steel in the legs.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 25 April, 2013, 10:44:01 pm
Seem to be battling against the wind in both directions at the mo & my arms had gone numb by the time I'd got home tonight  :o can't believe the difference in the temperature.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 26 April, 2013, 06:27:52 am
Quote from: Redlight on 25 April, 2013, 10:01:03 pm
Gridlock in SE London tonight. Getting home was like basket weaving by bike.  The police had a big chunk of the A2 (major route out to Kent) at Greenwich and Blackheath Hill (a short but testing climb) closed off so that they could conduct a "skid test" with a HGV.  Quite why they would chose to do that during the evening peak is beyond me.

Upshot was that I had to wheel the bike on the pavement for about a mile and a half while the road remained closed and a large number of uniformed men wandered around in hi-viz jackets talking into their radios.  I saw said lorry parked up at the side of the road. Presumably at some point later on they drove it down the hill and hit the brakes to see how much of a skid it would do.

Perhaps one of our boys in blue might be able to illuminate?
So that's what all that was about?  I decided to head in the other direction, back into Central London, for a little riverside jaunt as the weather was so lovely.  Spent some time on the beach, then headed down the river a bit.  Then back home. 
More temporary traffic lights on Peckham Rye, which is a bit of a pain going up on the SS as they are right in the middle of the rise.  Timed it better this evening, so I got there just as they were changing so just sailed up with what seemed a bit of a tailwind.
Lots of bikes enjoying the view.  Surely we could put a bit more cycle parking down there, unobtrusively?(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/s/czan9092daqh246/Photo%2025-04-2013%2017%2035%2023.jpg?token_hash=AAEmMuZhgw6C2AikzC5IhyWkEjya-um4VoCvXDljR8TJeA&dl=1)
The Holdsworth spent a little time on the beach soaking up the last rays of the sun.
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/s/5tu38h7rkpc1gca/Photo%2025-04-2013%2017%2044%2042.jpg?token_hash=AAFb1GrCZjQSHWAXwNyaKnPF7OPLMv66vug8sKcAPx7wEw&dl=1)
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/s/8dj3u7tedknzhyv/Photo%2025-04-2013%2017%2049%2047.jpg?token_hash=AAEzfuYX8GasGo2jSW2vDisK6nrlLhle8DlL_IoCSx6wrw&dl=1)
Found a parking space, finally. At least there's no meter.
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/s/p7yg76auh1ukhox/Photo%2025-04-2013%2017%2036%2050.jpg?token_hash=AAFx5tOnx5WRT0UzNs3AZaS0EqPO47eLTTBeqXqarS73ng&dl=1)
What a great evening.  Love it or hate it, (and I do both, from time to time) you have to admit, we Londoners live in some city.
Apologies for the size of these photos.  My usual technique for posting and shrinking seems to have failed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Northstar on 26 April, 2013, 06:47:40 am
Quote
Found a parking space, finally. At least there's no meter.

Don't give them any ideas.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 26 April, 2013, 07:41:31 am
Less than 12 hours later and I feel I'm in a different country.  A cold wet, one devoid of other cyclists, at 6am anyway.   Made the mistake of wearing shorts on the ride in to work.  That rain is freezing.  My knees only began to warm up on the last mile or so.  And that was with me pedalling like mad, till it felt as though my legs were about to part company with my torso, just to keep warm. (I don't normally ride that fast, it was just so cold and the recent warm snap had confused my clothing choosing skills.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 26 April, 2013, 08:51:25 am
Mdgrds, rainlegs, and very few cyclists (aside from the b@d@ss ones ;)).

As Jane intimated, compared to yesterday it could be another country.
Yesterday I counted 13 cyclists crammed into the lift in the Greenwich foot tunnel.
Today I was in there all by myself....

Lovely pics, Jane.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 26 April, 2013, 09:08:26 am
Sandals and shorts may not have been the best attire for the wet commute this morning, but it wasn't too bad.  But that wasn't the worst of it...

Around a kilometre from home left crank felt a bit odd.  I thought to myself "Oh, great, bolt is coming loose."  Stopped at the side of the road to sort it out, only to find the crank bolt made a successful bid for freedom!  :o  Removed crank, tucked it away, then pedalled one one-legged.  That was definitely no fun.  Got home, swapped bikes, then back on the commute, now guaranteed to arrive later than planned - and I wanted/needed to get in early today.  Pulled up to the gate and remembered by pass was tucked safely away with my mobile - in the tri-bag on the first bike I used this morning, i.e. at home.   ::-)  Oh well, at least I'm starting my day with two hours on the helldesk.  :(

Still, better than being on the tube.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 26 April, 2013, 09:15:54 am
Quote from: Jurek on 26 April, 2013, 08:51:25 am
Mdgrds, rainlegs, and very few cyclists (aside from the b@d@ss ones ;)).
Weirdly, as I live in sticks-ville and rarely see other cyclists, especially at 5:45am, I was overtaken (at speed) by another rider this morning.
I shouted back "it's a recovery ride" but only very quietly into my jacket.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 26 April, 2013, 09:18:25 am
Funny, I was doing a 'recovery ride' this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 26 April, 2013, 06:43:52 pm
Full house! For the longest commute I've had to date. 80 miles this week (plus a few more cycling on work-related business).

Wind was being a bit of an arse though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 26 April, 2013, 07:30:34 pm
Those extra miles must equal at least one extra pudding.  At least.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 26 April, 2013, 07:50:43 pm
I ran in, 5K each way.

On the way in I thought that I was doing ok and came in with 6.51 per km.

Thought after a day at a desk, and lardy lunch, I'd be slow and rubbish.

Set a flipping personal best 31.11 for the 5k I think it's 6.16 a km.

Whoop :-)

Back on the bike Sunday though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 26 April, 2013, 08:11:44 pm
there was a lady riding a red singlespeeder (steel langster?) in high heels, and... the bike had m520 spd pedals! i could tell it's a bike borrowed for a short trip, but still!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 26 April, 2013, 10:07:54 pm
Ran home yesterday. 34 and a bit for the 5k. In mitigation I was carrying a 9.5kg rucksack and came back via the observatory which is 120m vertical above work. Ran in this morning, 3.3km at 5:39/km (on average).
Legs hurt now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tom_e on 26 April, 2013, 10:53:00 pm
Quote from: zigzag on 26 April, 2013, 08:11:44 pm
there was a lady riding a red singlespeeder (steel langster?) in high heels, and... the bike had m520 spd pedals! i could tell it's a bike borrowed for a short trip, but still!

 ;D
There's a lady riding her bike in high heels. And you identified the model number for her pedals, her gear setup, and frame.  ;D

Did you notice what colour her hair was? What was she wearing?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dora on 27 April, 2013, 11:38:02 am
Picked up a hitch-hiker....well sort of.
The other token cyclist on the train was cycling in my home town for the first time and wasn't sure of his route.  I was going right past where he works so I asked if he'd like to ride with me.  I thought I was doing a nice thing but it turned out he was - a nice slow ride and a chat with a random stranger was exactly what I needed and may just be one of the best ways to cycle.    :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 27 April, 2013, 12:19:57 pm
I've ridden m'bike every day.

To the office and back (only about a 4 mile round trip, mind) on my day 'off' on Monday
A combination of walking and riding with scootering Cubs to school then off to site and back and home again, possibly 5 miles round trip
More walking/riding/scootering on the school run and trip round two sites - maybe 10 miles on Wednesday
Thursday - not a commute, wimped out to the bus in order to be able to get back to town in time for a train to Darlo for a pubbe runne.  No idea how many miles, but on a bike.
Friday, off to site and then an unscheduled trip back to another site when, technically, my weekend had started but there was A Big Problem that needed a coat of looking at.  Maybe 14 miles?

It's a start, innit.  Still need to clean the crud from Wednesday's "Highly Irritating Landscape Gardener Incompetent In Hosepipe Usage When Mixing Concrete Next To A Fence With Bikes Parked On The Other Side" incident off m'bike properly thobut.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Martin 14 on 27 April, 2013, 06:50:44 pm
So I'm out on a test ride trying out a new road bicycle and pull in to a garage forecourt to grab a drink to top up my water bottle, when a couple in a flash drop top queuing for petrol pass comment on my bike. 'Nice bicycle he says' thank you I reply 'I use to have one of them, then I grew up and bought a car' he says with a smirk. I humour him with a smile realising that he is trying to provoke me. When his other half decides to chip-in 'I couldn't be doing that, not very lady like after all ladies perspire they don't sweat' she says screwing up her nose. I gesture a smile and I fasten my helmet clip and before riding off suggest to her, that perhaps if her other half took the spare tyre from around his waist and put it in the trunk he might be capable of making her work up a sweat! They pass me shortly afterwards eyes diverted right :) .......The morale of the story is, if your gonna give shit out expect to get it back!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 27 April, 2013, 07:09:07 pm
Quote from: zigzag on 26 April, 2013, 08:11:44 pm
there was a lady riding a red singlespeeder (steel langster?) in high heels, and... the bike had m520 spd pedals! i could tell it's a bike borrowed for a short trip, but still!

(http://cyclitis.files.wordpress.com/2012/08/0000-high-heels.jpg)

and

http://www.baikbike.com/spd-cleats-on-high-heel-platform-boots/
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 27 April, 2013, 08:30:52 pm
Quote from: tom_e on 26 April, 2013, 10:53:00 pm
Quote from: zigzag on 26 April, 2013, 08:11:44 pm
there was a lady riding a red singlespeeder (steel langster?) in high heels, and... the bike had m520 spd pedals! i could tell it's a bike borrowed for a short trip, but still!

 ;D
There's a lady riding her bike in high heels. And you identified the model number for her pedals, her gear setup, and frame.  ;D

Did you notice what colour her hair was? What was she wearing?

i did, but only after i stopped looking at the unusual shoe/pedal combo :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 29 April, 2013, 08:49:07 am
I was on the commute today.

Commuting score +60 - 29 (though a third of those were between Walworth Rd and Borough High St, pushing past buses in dodgy situations).  Not too bad.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 29 April, 2013, 10:36:51 am
I usually do about 200m of the River Lee Navigation, simply because it takes me safely under Lea Bridge Road, without me having to negoitate for roadspace with any traffic.
This morning I stayed canalside and headed north up through Lea Valley past Walthamstow Marshes to Coppermill Lane.
It was very nice to have a little rural idyll thrown into the commute albeit my skinny 23s could've done without the half mile or so of (NSTN, look away now) gravelly footpath before depositing me back on the tarmac of Coppermill Lane. In addition to which, Lea Bridge Road is fairly hideous at the best of times.
It's a shame, because on the basis of the gravel, it's unlikely to be a regular modification of my commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 29 April, 2013, 08:42:35 pm
Despite my lesser ability into the wind, I scored +39 -8 on the way home.

Quite pleased with both rides today.  Though I am clearly unfit and out of practice, I averaged over 25kph in and 22kph home, despite a very slow section past Figge's Marsh, and a diversion which took in some off road and the barely surfaced Beddington Lane.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 30 April, 2013, 09:45:24 am
I got my commuter racing fu back this  morning. As I exited High Street, Cookham, turning right, towards Maidenhead, in the distance 9well, about 300 meters) I spied another cyclist exiting School Road, also turning right, towards Maidenhead.

As you all know, emerging from a junction ahead of another cyclist is a blatant issue of challenge so, I laid the hammer down. I caught the cyclist and passed with a cheery "Good morning" within 1/4 mile. I didn't see him again. I was either too fast for him or he was sooooooo demoralised by my overtake that he abandoned ;D

In addition, I have never had to say good morning to cyclists riding the other way so many times as this  orning. I must have seen 10 or 11 riders out this morning :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 30 April, 2013, 10:18:57 am
Quote from: fuzzy on 30 April, 2013, 09:45:24 am
I was either too fast for him or he was sooooooo demoralised by my overtake that he abandoned ;D

Or he turned off just after you passed him as he slowed for the bend... ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 30 April, 2013, 10:45:15 am
Quote from: clarion on 30 April, 2013, 10:18:57 am
Quote from: fuzzy on 30 April, 2013, 09:45:24 am
I was either too fast for him or he was sooooooo demoralised by my overtake that he abandoned ;D

Or he turned off just after you passed him as he slowed for the bend... ;)

Bugger off you! This is my fantasy and I will believe what I want.



 ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 30 April, 2013, 10:47:16 am
"Fuzzy! Wake up, wake up. You're dreaming!!"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 30 April, 2013, 10:47:26 am
Actually, he dismounted, threw his bike in the hedge and dried his tears with his lycra, knowing he could never be as fast as you.


Better? ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 30 April, 2013, 10:49:11 am
Quote from: clarion on 30 April, 2013, 10:47:26 am
Actually, he dismounted, threw his bike in the hedge and dried his tears with his lycra, knowing he could never be as fast as you.


Better? ;)
:-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 30 April, 2013, 10:49:54 am
Quote from: Riggers on 30 April, 2013, 10:47:16 am
"Fuzzy! Wake up, wake up. You're dreaming!!"

Only if you bring me breakfast in bed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 30 April, 2013, 10:56:47 am
"Wake up Fuzzy, you're having a nightmare!!!!!!"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Martin 14 on 30 April, 2013, 11:00:46 am
Quote from: Riggers on 30 April, 2013, 10:47:16 am
"Fuzzy! Wake up, wake up. You're dreaming!!"


 ;D

People too weak to...........you can read the rest below ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 30 April, 2013, 11:55:25 am
Looking forward to uploading this morning's ride - reckon I've set PRs on a couple of Strava segments. And I cracked the 32km/h average speed barrier for the whole ride (32.1km/h, to be exact), which is very gratifying indeed - especially as I was carrying a full backpack.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 30 April, 2013, 12:00:20 pm
Riding with gears to try to preserve my wrist for the Brevet Cymru this weekend. Do not want.  :hand:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 30 April, 2013, 01:29:14 pm
Quote from: clarion on 29 April, 2013, 08:42:35 pm
Despite my lesser ability into the wind, I scored +39 -8 on the way home.


Maybe I've missed it upthread, but what is this game of which you speak and how does it work? I'm guessing it's number overtaken (quarry) versus number that overtake (bastard show-offs in too much of a hurry). How do you count shoalers, of which there seem to be an increasing number as the temperature creeps up?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 30 April, 2013, 01:34:50 pm
Catch them in an oversize keep net, then push them through a plastic funnel so they pop out one by one, released back to the freedom of the tarmac.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 30 April, 2013, 05:25:17 pm
That's one option.  But it's easier to count them both ways.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 30 April, 2013, 05:29:54 pm
I ended up playing chicken with the kamikaze chickens :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 30 April, 2013, 08:33:49 pm
Tried to fix the whirr-grrl-whrrrl grinding noise and failed. Randomly I figured cleaning the chain would somehow be beneficial on the grounds that I couldn't actually see any chain under the accreted grime and maybe five years of clag was causing the chain not to go around straight. Frankly the oily muck was thick enough to hide seabirds and they'd be sure to make a noise when I pedalled. When it comes to bike repair I operate at a high level of sophistication. So I amazed even myself by removing the chain, losing important bits (if it did have a powerlink-thing, it doesn't now), and yet somehow reassembling it from the bits that fell off the first time. Minus one link, which had to be sacrificed to the dark lord of bike repair.

I am man, evolved to fix things. Behold my dirty hands. Consequently, rather pleased with myself I set off.

Whirr-grrl-whrrrl.

Oh, I prodded it some more, squirted it with oil, spun the wheels, and did all things you're supposed to do when you're trying to make it look like you know how to fix a bike but really, really don't. Nothing. Stupid noise only becomes apparent when I ride the thing. I even resorted to cleaning the bike which is just perversion. I give up. Now I have to face taking it to a bike shop, and I hate, hate, hate bike shops. They're always staffed by someone who looks at my crappy, ill-maintained bike and pulls that face, that same kind of disdainful look you'd get from a Tyrannosaur if you offered it a Linda McCartney ready meal.

I confess my previous attempt at fixing the problem involved fleeing the country and hoping that somehow the bike, left in the shed, would repair itself, or the problem would get bored and decide to go and haunt someone else's bike.

Fortunately I have another bike that hasn't yet composed its own symphony of noisy mechanical failure.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil W on 30 April, 2013, 08:35:32 pm
Extended the evening commute to 2 hours, because it was a lovely sunny time and wife said shed be late home..
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 30 April, 2013, 08:48:17 pm
Twats who overtake me much too closely on the cyclepath when there are also oncoming cyclists. Be aware that, should I think you're about to take me down, I will make damn sure you come with me. While screeching.

Alternatively, since you're so very fast, why don't you use the feckin' road?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 30 April, 2013, 10:26:53 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 30 April, 2013, 08:48:17 pm
Twats who overtake me much too closely on the cyclepath when there are also oncoming cyclists.

Cable Street, by any chance?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 01 May, 2013, 12:25:11 am
Yay! I can haz bike.
Picked up rental bike this morning and fettled it to my satisfaction.

Did a trial run of my commute here in Tulsa in the afternoon, as straight in-and-out 114k:

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/305828448

Contrary to my expectation, Tulsa is not flat.   The streets I used were rather rolling.
And it was bloody windy.
And Hot.
And I'm not very good at applying suncream, it appears.
I have comedy stripes on my scalp from the lid.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 01 May, 2013, 06:28:39 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 30 April, 2013, 08:48:17 pm
Twats who overtake me much too closely on the cyclepath when there are also oncoming cyclists. Be aware that, should I think you're about to take me down, I will make damn sure you come with me. While screeching.

Alternatively, since you're so very fast, why don't you use the feckin' road?
This, I think, is the thing that I hate about cycling at the moment.  I know it's illogical, I know that cars, lorries and buses have the potential to inflict far more serious damage upon me than an errant cyclist.  But, I suppose I expect more from cyclists (not logical, I did admit that).  But the truth is, there are just as many fools out there, obsessed with speed and convinced of their right to snatch my road space, on two wheels as there are driving four.  In fact, I suspect that, in my youth, some might have described me thus, the only difference being that, if I saw another cyclist, I would wave and chat, there being so few of us out on London's roads back then, rather than attempt to "scalp" them and cut them up at lights. 
We can, however, take comfort from the fact that a fool on a bike is one less dangerous idiot behind the wheels of an infinitely more dangerous and space hogging vehicle.
Having said that, my only traffic collision so far this year, and indeed for some years now (crosses fingers quietly) was with an RLJ'ing, head down fool,  overtaking me as I turned right (from the correct road position, and while indicating).  Left me with a swollen, leg and a spectacular bruise from ankle to knee. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 01 May, 2013, 06:35:16 am
I suppose now I live in a town I may actually get involved in interactions with other cyclists? Not this morning though. I interacted with freezing fog instead. I thought it was cold, but there was ice on the crossing gate. It's MAY. And, more selfishly, my new house is warm so I didn't dress appropriately and Mitts were Not Enough. :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 01 May, 2013, 07:15:22 am
Quote from: jane on 01 May, 2013, 06:28:39 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 30 April, 2013, 08:48:17 pm
Twats who overtake me much too closely on the cyclepath when there are also oncoming cyclists. Be aware that, should I think you're about to take me down, I will make damn sure you come with me. While screeching.

Alternatively, since you're so very fast, why don't you use the feckin' road?
This, I think, is the thing that I hate about cycling at the moment.  I know it's illogical, I know that cars, lorries and buses have the potential to inflict far more serious damage upon me than an errant cyclist.  But, I suppose I expect more from cyclists (not logical, I did admit that).  But the truth is, there are just as many fools out there, obsessed with speed and convinced of their right to snatch my road space, on two wheels as there are driving four.  In fact, I suspect that, in my youth, some might have described me thus, the only difference being that, if I saw another cyclist, I would wave and chat, there being so few of us out on London's roads back then, rather than attempt to "scalp" them and cut them up at lights. 
We can, however, take comfort from the fact that a fool on a bike is one less dangerous idiot behind the wheels of an infinitely more dangerous and space hogging vehicle.
Having said that, my only traffic collision so far this year, and indeed for some years now (crosses fingers quietly) was with an RLJ'ing, head down fool,  overtaking me as I turned right (from the correct road position, and while indicating).  Left me with a swollen, leg and a spectacular bruise from ankle to knee.

On last night's commute home, Norway Street, Greenwich, where it does a 90º turn to the left by the derelict pub, a woman on a bike travelling in the same direction is approaching the turn and I'm about to overtake her.
I gave her at least a car's width clearance, probably more, and passed without incident.
Judging by the stream of invective which followed shortly thereafter, I could tell that the mamil behind me, in full team kit on a team replica (don't ask me which team, I won't know) bike did not afford her the same courtesy.
She didn't let up as the three of us waited at the red light by Creek Road.
Judging by the expression on the face of the mamil, that light stayed red for what must've seemed like a lifetime.
Talk about looking like he wanted the newly laid tarmac to open up and swallow him.
I grinned as I could still hear her once the lights had changed to green and I crossed Deptford Creek.
Further along my commute, as I waited with a bunch of other cyclists at another red light, same mamil caught up and barged his way through to the front of the bunch.
Twat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 01 May, 2013, 07:37:56 am
What a morning. First frost, then freezing fog. At least there was no wind and a rather pleasant lack of motons.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 01 May, 2013, 07:56:52 am
Cold for me too, but not as tough as Guy's commute.  I wrapped my top half well, but had bare feet in little flat tackies (plimsolls?) and my tiny toes were chilled. 
Getting a bit silly with the daft, close overtakes from cyclists.  Two, at speed, on my left through a rather small gap as I waited at the lights. Then one more, again on my left, as I was preparing to turn left.  Luckily, the lifesaver check I learned when I did the cycling instructor training prevented us from colliding. I saw him coming at the last minute and held back from my turn till he'd whizzed onwards.  Even at that early hour, three dangerous and/or selfish manouevres.  To be honest, I am getting a bit fed up with it. I have a feeling some of them don't even realise how their behaviour impacts on others.  Perhaps all of us need to sit back and reflect a bit on our commuting behaviour.  Do we all afford other cyclists the same consideration when passing that we expect ourselves from other vehicles?  Is it really safe to ride over 20 mph along fast busy urban streets with many sideturns and lots of pedestrians liable to cross at short or no notice? 
Pootlers and bimblers unite!  We have nothing to lose but our PB's!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 01 May, 2013, 08:27:55 am
Quote from: ian on 30 April, 2013, 08:33:49 pm
Tried to fix the whirr-grrl-whrrrl grinding noise and failed. Randomly I figured cleaning the chain would somehow be beneficial on the grounds that I couldn't actually see any chain under the accreted grime and maybe five years of clag was causing the chain not to go around straight. Frankly the oily muck was thick enough to hide seabirds and they'd be sure to make a noise when I pedalled. When it comes to bike repair I operate at a high level of sophistication. So I amazed even myself by removing the chain, losing important bits (if it did have a powerlink-thing, it doesn't now), and yet somehow reassembling it from the bits that fell off the first time. Minus one link, which had to be sacrificed to the dark lord of bike repair.

I am man, evolved to fix things. Behold my dirty hands. Consequently, rather pleased with myself I set off.

Whirr-grrl-whrrrl.

Oh, I prodded it some more, squirted it with oil, spun the wheels, and did all things you're supposed to do when you're trying to make it look like you know how to fix a bike but really, really don't. Nothing. Stupid noise only becomes apparent when I ride the thing. I even resorted to cleaning the bike which is just perversion. I give up. Now I have to face taking it to a bike shop, and I hate, hate, hate bike shops. They're always staffed by someone who looks at my crappy, ill-maintained bike and pulls that face, that same kind of disdainful look you'd get from a Tyrannosaur if you offered it a Linda McCartney ready meal.

I confess my previous attempt at fixing the problem involved fleeing the country and hoping that somehow the bike, left in the shed, would repair itself, or the problem would get bored and decide to go and haunt someone else's bike.

Fortunately I have another bike that hasn't yet composed its own symphony of noisy mechanical failure.


2nd bike must be thinking: "What the hell have I done!?" Dragging it out the shed it'll most likely expel the equivalent of a human fart, and blow its tyres.


Bytheway team, Ianers must be Post of the day. Surely?  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 01 May, 2013, 08:59:23 am
Quote from: Riggers on 01 May, 2013, 08:27:55 am
Quote from: ian on 30 April, 2013, 08:33:49 pm
...


2nd bike must be thinking: "What the hell have I done!?" Dragging it out the shed it'll most likely expel the equivalent of a human fart, and blow its tyres.


It's foldy bike today as I'm going to cinema later and there might be an encounter with beer and food afterwards, I'll be frantically spinning down Peckham Rye in an hour or so. The other, other bike is actually a lot nicer but wouldn't appreciate the kind of abuse I dish out on a daily basis. That other, other bike was actually purchased to replace the broken bike, but I quite like broken bike, despite the noises. However, it might have finally succumbed to the years of abuse. It only cost £130. I may brave the newish bike shop in Norwood Junction, I've not had the opportunity to earn their disdain yet, but really is there a friendly bike shop anywhere, one where normal cyclists can go and not be vigorously sandpapered with scorn? I might first remove the back wheel and look at it meaningfully for a while first before putting it back. Anything to put off the inevitable.

On other matters: the closely overtaking cyclists. The worst are the ones that zing you at speed when you start from the lights. Even worse when they zip through on the inside, with just a couple of molecules between you. I saw one clip a woman the other week at the end of Blackfriars. Did he stop and apologize? No, he turned his head as he sped off and shouted some abuse at the poor woman. I think safe to say that there's no romance on the cards for that pair. If she'd had telekinetic powers they'd have been scrubbing his brains off the facade of the Unilever building.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 01 May, 2013, 09:01:00 am
No frost in North Hampshire but still mighty cold for May.  Didn't wear the Sealskinz or winter gloves so am typing this waiting for the extremities to warm up to face the shower.  Took a scenic route so I could take in Calcot Hill, relishing the fact that there aren't any critical deadlines today....yet.  :)

Sad to hear others getting cut up by two-wheeled menaces.  Although fairly brisk along the roads hope that at least I'm courteous to others I'm sharing the road with. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 01 May, 2013, 09:16:50 am
Vaidas bikes in Honor Oak, Ian, just round the corner from me, I have always found decent and friendly.  I try and frequent them as much as possible and, although I do quite a bit of my own maintenance and repair, I also occasionally just drop my bikes off for stuff when I don't have the time.  I have never felt looked down on or treated dismissively (and, believe me, I know exactly what you mean, I have experienced a lot of dismissive, disrespectful treatment in bike shops over the years). Brixton Cycles is another place I like for their friendly attitude, although I haven't been there for a few years.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Morrisette on 01 May, 2013, 09:23:20 am
Quote from: fboab on 01 May, 2013, 06:35:16 am
I suppose now I live in a town I may actually get involved in interactions with other cyclists? Not this morning though. I interacted with freezing fog instead. I thought it was cold, but there was ice on the crossing gate. It's MAY. And, more selfishly, my new house is warm so I didn't dress appropriately and Mitts were Not Enough. :facepalm:

I was going to say exactly this. BLOODY HELL IT'S COLD. Very unwise choice of fingerless gloves meant my hands were really painful and still hurt now the blood has come back into them, ow ow ow. And yeah, freezing fog in May? OK Weather Goddess you have had your fun but COME ON!!!!!! Let's have some warmth! If I want Arctic weather I'll move to Tromso.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 01 May, 2013, 09:28:04 am
After hearing it would be quite cold I dressed for it - and melted when the sun came out. Also rode the singlespeed which feels like I really need to switch out the 35s for something sensible pump the tyres up
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 01 May, 2013, 09:47:01 am
Quote from: ian on 30 April, 2013, 08:33:49 pm
Now I have to face taking it to a bike shop, and I hate, hate, hate bike shops.

Another + for Vaidas bikes Ian.
No nosense, unpretentious bikery.
Or bring it round to mine if you like, and we can both have a listen to it.
I'm off work Friday and Monday and mostly around over the weekend, and I probably owe you one, anyway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 01 May, 2013, 01:09:58 pm
Last night I left work half an hour late. I think I will catch the train from Pencoed to Pontyclun to make up time. That would make my arrival at home only a few minutes later than normal. I pause u-turn back to the shops near work and insert bank card and acquire some cash to fill my empty wallet. So I set off for Pencoed again.  I cycle to Pencoed but I am late the level crossing barriers are down and are rising, my train had already arrived.  I get to the station path and start running with my bike. I stop abruptly I have pulled a muscle in my right thigh. I miss the train. I can hardly walk let alone cycle. I waddle painfully along the station to the steps at the other end and discovered I could not get up them. After much struggling the obstacle is defeated but I realise that I am not going to cycle the remainng 12 miles home so I call home for help.

This morning I decided that I would use the train from Radyr to Bridgend.  I managed to swing my leg over the bar and tried a tentative pedal.  This is OK I think, the bike rumbles over a small bump and I think ouch. The plan is to ride smoothly. I get the light uphill and habitually try to apply more power my leg immediately warns me to keep steady.  I observe that smooth steady pedaling is not a problem but the small sharp accelerations caused by holes and bumps give me a quick shock of pain.  I get to the station. At Cardiff station I let the crowd from my train down the steps and walk down the steps slowly. Very not me. I climb the steps and wait for the big train. Six bikes got off. Five bikes got on. The rack was full.  I arrive at Bridgend with a degree of trepidation. I am in traffic now sudden start and stops might be required.  I try to ride slowly. To my horror I kept catching the slower cyclists. Normally I would zoom past but today I did not want to. On the industrial estate I passed the first turn I could take because a lorry was approaching and I did not feel my usual quick turn would happen so I carried on to the next junction.

The plan is take the train for the next few days and have a proper rest on the weekend. Train again on Monday but I will test my leg a bit and decide what to do then.

 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 01 May, 2013, 01:38:04 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 30 April, 2013, 10:26:53 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 30 April, 2013, 08:48:17 pm
Twats who overtake me much too closely on the cyclepath when there are also oncoming cyclists.

Cable Street, by any chance?

But of course...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 01 May, 2013, 08:22:56 pm
Warm (17C) on the way back and a tailwind.  Only cottoned onto the fact that there was a tailwind when I realised that after reaching 27mph on the canal bridge launch ramp I was still over 22 mph approach the Burghfield Road M4 bridge.  Not complaining though - just unusual that it was so warm with a northerly wind after such a cold start to the day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 02 May, 2013, 01:34:36 am
At the moment, with sunshine in the mornings, I'm overheating a bit by the time I get into work, and in the evenings, whilst I'm comfy for most of the commute, for less than a mile or so, across Mitcham Common on Windmill Road and Beddington Lane, the temperature drops dramatically, and it's really quite brisk cycling in shorts and a long sleeved YACF jersey.  Once I get past that bit, and back to more built up areas, the temperature rises a bit again.  Still I'm not complaining, it's easier in shorts and a jersey, without multiple layers, thick socks and gloves. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 02 May, 2013, 07:30:40 am
Frosty again. No wind. WVM stopped at the roundabout to let me cross! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 02 May, 2013, 09:42:29 am
London's parks are glorious in this weather.  Postcard time coming over Westminster Bridge earlier, with Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament against a blue sky.  The guards were on parade at Wellington Barracks as I zoomed past on Birdcage Walk.

Judged the layers quite well today, only sweating slightly when I got in.  Sports vest with integral bra (which stays on under office wear), wicking t-shirt, thin long sleeve jersey and sleeveless puffa type gilet from Uniqlo.  Will ditch the puffa later obviously, and hopefully the long sleeve jersey.

Haven't exposed my knees yet though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 02 May, 2013, 10:32:41 am
Going home last night - a car stopped to wave me through. Then a bus ditto.

Then on the big A64/A1 roundabout I hesitated about entering because of a BMW tanking round the inside lane (I wanted the outside lane but worried that car might suddenly swerve across to take next exit). Driver saw me looking, put on his right and indicator and moved over futher in his lane. I wellied it then watched driver scrupiously check mirrors, indicate and move across 20ft in front of me. Absolutely awesome driving and awareness.

It must be the sunny weather or something.

BTW you southerners, Yorkshire is sunny and bright, the blossom is out on the trees, flowers are blooming, the grass is very green. Just thought you'd like to know.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 02 May, 2013, 10:37:38 am
My handlebars slipped on the way to the station this morning, rotating downwards a bit. Had to stop and raise them and tighten the (single) stem bolt. I'd been riding in a semi-aero position with my arms on the hoods.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 02 May, 2013, 12:02:15 pm
Quite a painful ride in this morning.  I seem to have damaged something in the rib area.  It only hurts when I breathe.  :(
So of course when I reached the Col de Priory Road I realised that I would have to ascend in a style that would not cause my breathing to get deeper.  Twiddley Twiddley.
Now I very rarely see anyone else on that hill, and if I do we're generally travelling at the same pace so don't have to pay much heed to each other.
This morning two buggers crossed the lights as I waited to turn left up the hill.  Did I tuck in behind when I caught one and then after, the other?
Did I buggery! Come on, I'm not quick, but I do have my pride.

Ouch.  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 02 May, 2013, 12:31:02 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 01 May, 2013, 09:47:01 am
Quote from: ian on 30 April, 2013, 08:33:49 pm
Now I have to face taking it to a bike shop, and I hate, hate, hate bike shops.

Another + for Vaidas bikes Ian.
No nosense, unpretentious bikery.
Or bring it round to mine if you like, and we can both have a listen to it.
I'm off work Friday and Monday and mostly around over the weekend, and I probably owe you one, anyway.

Ta, I may take you up on the offer, but let me tinker a bit first. I could just ride through Forest Hill. The horrendous noise of tortured bicycle will most surely raise you from your sleep. To be honest though, nothing in the drive train is quite straight, so I think it may need entire replacement, which on a cheap bike of five years' vintage and many thousands of miles wear might not be worth the effort. I may, at the weekend, experimentally build on my inadvertent chain disassembly-re-assembly skills and take out the rear axle and put it back (I did break a rear axle once). Beyond that, my repair skills would best be found wandering and lost in the distant wastelands of ignorance.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 02 May, 2013, 12:35:50 pm
You're welcome to call round.....
bear in mind since writing the above, a ride to Whitstable looks like it may be on the cards for Monday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 02 May, 2013, 06:58:18 pm
Bluebells in the woods.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: phantasmagoriana on 02 May, 2013, 06:58:28 pm
This morning's ride in was lovely. The ride home would have been equally pleasant, had I not discovered a puncture shortly after I set off. There followed a lesson in how *not* to replace a tube:

Set the bike upside down (next to a handy wall of broken rocks covered with wire mesh stuff). Removed wheel and old tube. Tried to find source of puncture - nothing. Put in new tube. This took a long time as the new tube seemed to be far too big, diameter-wise (yes, it was definitely the right size, according to the markings). Eventually crammed it in. Took pump - hadn't used this one in anger before, and realised the rubber bits in the head needed switching around for the Presta valve. Promptly dropped one of the rubber bits down one of the cracks in the rock wall. Efforts to remove it simply lodged it further in, until I realised it wasn't going to come out. Whilst foraging around, dropped my 15mm spanner down there too! Fortunately this wasn't too far in and I retrieved it.

Having reseated the tyre (which always takes me far longer than it should), I pumped it up as best I could with the head that didn't really fit. It was distinctly squishy. Put the wheel back on, and rode home *very* gingerly, trying to keep all the weight off the rear wheel over the slightest bump. The tyre somehow didn't deflate on the way home, despite having <50psi in it (I normally pump them up to 115!).

Lesson learned: don't ever think a wall with crevices is a good place to fettle, even though it's a handy height. Oh, and get some better tyres. :facepalm:

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lordy on 02 May, 2013, 07:18:12 pm
As per The Lurker, nice to see the bluebells out, this weather makes the commute first class, spring has sprung!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 02 May, 2013, 08:06:46 pm
Quote from: phantasmagoriana on 02 May, 2013, 06:58:28 pm
Lesson learned: don't ever think a wall with crevices is a good place to fettle, even though it's a handy height. Oh, and get some better tyres. :facepalm:

Might I add "always have your pump head in the right mode (standardising all your inner tubes on Presta if necessary)" and optionally "stick a valve adaptor in your repair kit".

Digging the rubber pingfuckit out of a pump head with a bit of twig in the pissing rain somewhere in Essex at dark o'clock is not an experience I'm eager to repeat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 02 May, 2013, 08:39:37 pm
Got to Temple Meads. Train display for the 18:20 said no bike spaces. 18:26 only takes 2, so unlikely I’d get on that given the 18:20 (6 spaces) had none. 18:55? Hmm, I could chance waiting for it, or I could cycle all the way home and beat the train. Which I did, despite stem slipping again.

So that’s 44km instead of 24km this evening. Lots of cretins about.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil W on 02 May, 2013, 09:24:44 pm
Quote from: Basil on 02 May, 2013, 12:02:15 pm
It only hurts when I breathe.  :(

All the time then, unless you're holding your breath
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 02 May, 2013, 10:00:21 pm
Quote from: Phil W on 02 May, 2013, 09:24:44 pm
Quote from: Basil on 02 May, 2013, 12:02:15 pm
It only hurts when I breathe.  :(

All the time then, unless you're holding your breath

Correct, Sir.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 02 May, 2013, 11:48:35 pm
I decided to take the signed Hadrian's Cycleway diversion on the way home tonight. I can safely say my line in R&T about it being only suitable for mountain bikes is correct. Big holes, some filled with loose gravel, dirt surfaces with big rocks sticking out of them and slippery wet bits (despite the recent weather). I was on a tourer with 25mm krylions - and ended up pushing.

I'm starting to wonder if there was any real thought put into that route, whether the route was designed by a Sustrans person who's ever seen a bike (or maybe even the roadworks contractor), and whether they've actually been down the route considering that the only signs were at the tarmac bits at either end. I'll also add that they haven't put any signs saying the route is shut up on the Seascale side of the closure until you have ridden the entire off-road section and are almost out the other side, meaning anyone who misses the diversion sign is going to have to retrace along a bumpy sandy track.

I just hope the diversion doesn't lead to too many injuries over the weekend when the tourers get to it. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 03 May, 2013, 09:42:00 am
Decided to ride the Mercian for a change, partly to give my bones a rest from the vibration (the mercian has 1.75" tyres).

First reaction; "Oh my, I'd forgotten how comfy the saddle is!"

Second reaction; "I'd forgotten how slow this is compared to the Ribble."
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 May, 2013, 09:48:09 am
I rode my Romany.  With a big pannier of clothes & stuff for Butterfly (I'm going straight up to the hospital from work).  I always think of it as a slow old thing, until I look at the stats.  Even with the load, and me being so unfit, we passed loads of bikes.

I was passed once (well, tbf, I didn't hit the busiest bits until after 9).  By a Ghost.  Er, that's what the bike was called.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 03 May, 2013, 09:53:42 am
Quote from: Kim on 02 May, 2013, 08:06:46 pm
Quote from: phantasmagoriana on 02 May, 2013, 06:58:28 pm
Lesson learned: don't ever think a wall with crevices is a good place to fettle, even though it's a handy height. Oh, and get some better tyres. :facepalm:

Might I add "always have your pump head in the right mode (standardising all your inner tubes on Presta if necessary)" and optionally "stick a valve adaptor in your repair kit".

Digging the rubber pingfuckit out of a pump head with a bit of twig in the pissing rain somewhere in Essex at dark o'clock is not an experience I'm eager to repeat.

That reminds me, must swap my pump on the Inbred back to Presta, after lending it to a Catalan to sort his rear tyre.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 03 May, 2013, 11:07:54 pm
Quote from: Kim on 02 May, 2013, 08:06:46 pm
Quote from: phantasmagoriana on 02 May, 2013, 06:58:28 pm
Lesson learned: don't ever think a wall with crevices is a good place to fettle, even though it's a handy height. Oh, and get some better tyres. :facepalm:

Might I add "always have your pump head in the right mode (standardising all your inner tubes on Presta if necessary)" and optionally "stick a valve adaptor in your repair kit".

Digging the rubber pingfuckit out of a pump head with a bit of twig in the pissing rain somewhere in Essex at dark o'clock is not an experience I'm eager to repeat.

Both my minipump, and my home track pump have heads that automagically adjust to either Presta or Schrader valves, so they'll work with both types, and there are no bits to mislay.

Sometimes it's hard to standardise on Prestas.  I'm not sure my trailer inner tubes come in sizes that have Presta variants, and even if they do, throwing away perfectly good inner tubes for this purpose alone seems excessive.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 04 May, 2013, 08:42:09 pm
Cold wet 57k ride in today.
About 4 degrees, and pissing down for half of it.
That's more like home, not Oklahoma.
And the bloody hotel doesn't start breakfast till 7 on the weekend, which meant I had to start out on empty.

Just contemplating the ride home now.

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/307649855

Eta ride home was colder wetter and windier.
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/308038490
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Katie on 06 May, 2013, 01:18:30 pm
I got SMIDSY'd.

By a pedestrian.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 May, 2013, 02:09:16 pm
Are you ok?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Katie on 06 May, 2013, 02:40:18 pm
Quote from: clarion on 06 May, 2013, 02:09:16 pm
Are you ok?
I'll live. Two cracking bruises developing (one in a place I didn't think I'd ever get a bruise) but the overriding feeling is one of bemusement and WTF.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 May, 2013, 02:42:18 pm
There's always a lot of the latter two in any incident.  How's the bike?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Katie on 06 May, 2013, 02:44:11 pm
Quote from: clarion on 06 May, 2013, 02:42:18 pm
There's always a lot of the latter two in any incident.  How's the bike?
No damage! Which I'm quite glad for, since I've had it less than a week. Breaking it (in) early, or something.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 May, 2013, 03:18:23 pm
:thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 07 May, 2013, 10:21:32 am
Quote from: ian on 30 April, 2013, 08:33:49 pm
saga of whirr-grrl-whrrrl

I don't know much about the those mechanicals, but I'm thinking the rear axle shouldn't be in two pieces. Sheered where the cone-y bit was. It was holding together until I tried to extract it, at which point it proved easier to remove than anticipated, being as it came out in two pieces. Stupid bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 07 May, 2013, 10:23:09 am
Wore a fleece, that was fatal almost boiled to death.

Apart from that nice fast ride in with the traffic giving plenty of room... wait have I actually died.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 07 May, 2013, 10:42:32 am
I cycled the whole way. Now I need breakfast.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 07 May, 2013, 10:58:02 am
Was perfick conditions this morning. Nice and bright, clear, cool and little traffic. That which was present treated me like an unstable explosive device.

Perfick.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Rhys W on 07 May, 2013, 10:06:41 pm
I've managed to commute for the first time since about 2004 (due to being made redundant, working 200 miles away from home, working 47 miles away, and being made redundant again). I now have a nice 10-mile route, after passing a large landfill site, a small industrial estate and a Travellers' site it's about 7 miles of flat open farmland with next to no traffic. The biggest hill is a railway bridge at the far end so I've been riding my singlespeed. Great facilities at the other end (lockers, showers, drying room) and I can claim £25 as some kind of green travel initiative!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 08 May, 2013, 06:34:22 am
Ow. Thank Goodness I live in the flatlands.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 08 May, 2013, 03:35:05 pm
I tired to shorten my commute by three miles last night, by using an ambulance for part of it!  The downside to that approach, was that I wasn't sufficiently badly damaged at the hospital for triage to put me anywhere near the short end of the list, so after having waited half an hour for the ambulance to turn up (which admittedly let the nausea and headache subside a bit), and then four hours in A&E's waiting room, they eventually stitched my head up, and let me go around 5-30.

Being me, and not having had any time for any of my bruising to properly stiffen up yet, I cycled the remaining six miles home.  That did also demonstrate that there's no damage to Red, aside from possibly a slight dent to the front rim (you can feel it if you lightly engage the front brake).  That may be treatable with a rubber mallet, or I can just live with it.  I must have looked "interesting", like some sort of extra from a zombie or slasher movie. ;D

Zev was very happy to see me, having reduced the dry cat food to almost nothing. She's still wander around meowing and chirruping a lot, I think because she's confused by me getting in even later than usual, and then hanging around the house (but moving slowly!)

The actual incident was at the end of Cambridge Road (in Battersea), going south west, and last night they were doing some roadworks and had closed most of the road, with cars essentially driving down the left side, where they'd normally be parked. At the end of that, the pavement comes back out, just before it turns left to approach the traffic lights, and it isn't normally a problem, because you just continue onwards from where the parked cars forced you to be, but with the confusion of all the road working vehicles, flashing lights, cones, wet road, and probably being a bit tired, I hit the kerb. I saw it at the last moment, but didn't have time enough to totally miss it, so braked and I think I just caught it. I probably managed to fly a bit through the air, given where I landed, but that also involved me getting up a bit dazed, so I'm not 100% sure (the workmen said I was conscious the whole time, but that's not to say I've got a detailed memory of it!)

If you look at this (https://maps.google.co.uk/?ll=51.473189,-0.165439&spn=0.000571,0.001175&t=k&z=19&layer=c&cbll=51.473352,-0.165278&panoid=XBVtgYh-I8ujHEsdHSUtIA&cbp=12,212.31,,0,5.09) Google Streeview shot, you can see the bit that sticks out, just in front of the white Mini. It's not that abrupt, but I wasn't really expecting it. Ho hum, that'll teach me to cycle late at night!

Still no real permanent damage done.  I suspect I'll have to give it a few days to let the bruising on my knee subside, since it'll probably swell up a bit and get stiffer.  The injuries are mostly just road rash on both knees, my left elbow, half a dozen stitches in two wounds to the left of my eye, and some bruising to my ribcage (both the ambulance staff and the doctor in A&E listened and felt that carefully, so no more significant damage).  The bath water went a lovely shade of brown with all the dried blood that I was covered in.  I'm going to have to soak the clothes in Biotex or similar, since there's so much blood in all of it!  I even managed to get blood on the socks!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 08 May, 2013, 03:52:56 pm
Ouch !
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: delthebike on 08 May, 2013, 03:54:28 pm
GWS TimO!  :-*

They should've put a bollard on that k...  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Socks on 08 May, 2013, 04:09:33 pm
On the way home yesterday evening, along a stretch of road with parking bays along one side.  As usual I moved out to a reasonable distance form the parked cars, thinking to make it obvious that there isn't enough room to overtake if cars are coming the other way.

Not obvious enough for one vacant idiot who overtook anyway, and clipped the end of my handlebar with his mirror.  Absolutely no reaction by the driver, even to the loud thud as his mirror bent inwards. 

So either the usual SMIDSY (even tho it was a bright, clear afternoon and I was wearing a painfully bright orange jacket) or very bad judgement of distance.

 :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 08 May, 2013, 04:14:41 pm

I have to say, you generated an impressive-sounding amount of claret for a relatively simple off. Well done, chap.

We expect pictures. Maybe wait until the bruising really comes out.

glad to hear the bike is ok.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 08 May, 2013, 04:41:02 pm
Quote from: delthebike on 08 May, 2013, 03:54:28 pm
They should've put a bollard on that k...  :facepalm:

It has occurred to me, that I have far more problems with the geography than I do with people. ;D

That's the third time since I've lived in London, that the road has jumped up and hit me and I've needed stitches!

Quote from: mrcharly on 08 May, 2013, 04:14:41 pm
I have to say, you generated an impressive-sounding amount of claret for a relatively simple off. Well done, chap.

We expect pictures. Maybe wait until the bruising really comes out.

I've just put the clothes into a bucket with Sainsburys version of Biotex, and the water looks remarkably like chocolate milkshake. :o

The face does seem to have such a good blood supply, that injuries always seem to result in plenty of blood.  When you consider how much blood you can get from a shaving nick, it's hardly surprising that an inch or two slash on the forehead pumps out quite a bit!

I've got some photos on my phone and the SLR, so I'll post those later, when I dig out some cables to get them onto the PC.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PhilO on 08 May, 2013, 04:45:59 pm
GWS TImO! Sounds narsty!



Quote from: Rhys W on 07 May, 2013, 10:06:41 pm
I've managed to commute for the first time since about 2004 (due to being made redundant, working 200 miles away from home, working 47 miles away, and being made redundant again). I now have a nice 10-mile route, after passing a large landfill site, a small industrial estate and a Travellers' site it's about 7 miles of flat open farmland with next to no traffic. The biggest hill is a railway bridge at the far end so I've been riding my singlespeed. Great facilities at the other end (lockers, showers, drying room) and I can claim £25 as some kind of green travel initiative!  :thumbsup:

I strongly suspect that we may share employers, Mr W - that commute sounds remarkably familiar (although I don't come that way myself). Will PM later, perhaps, and we can compare notes...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 08 May, 2013, 05:00:28 pm
On the commute today I used my bike for the first time in over three weeks. It was luvverly.

It's turning into another very poor year on the cyclo-commuting front. Very depressing.

The recent bout of inactivity has been a combination of business travel, domestic crises and a bout of sinusitis. Boo hiss on all counts.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 08 May, 2013, 05:04:18 pm
Quote from: TimO on 08 May, 2013, 04:41:02 pm
Quote from: delthebike on 08 May, 2013, 03:54:28 pm
They should've put a bollard on that k...  :facepalm:

It has occurred to me, that I have far more problems with the geography than I do with people. ;D

That's the third time since I've lived in London, that the road has jumped up and hit me and I've needed stitches!

Quote from: mrcharly on 08 May, 2013, 04:14:41 pm
I have to say, you generated an impressive-sounding amount of claret for a relatively simple off. Well done, chap.

We expect pictures. Maybe wait until the bruising really comes out.

I've just put the clothes into a bucket with Sainsburys version of Biotex, and the water looks remarkably like chocolate milkshake. :o

The face does seem to have such a good blood supply, that injuries always seem to result in plenty of blood.  When you consider how much blood you can get from a shaving nick, it's hardly surprising that an inch or two slash on the forehead pumps out quite a bit!

I've got some photos on my phone and the SLR, so I'll post those later, when I dig out some cables to get them onto the PC.


Bloody hell Timo. Get well soon. Plenty of Ibuprofen. You're gonna be jolly stiff for a while methinks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 08 May, 2013, 05:50:41 pm
GWS TimO, glad the bike's ok, anyhow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 08 May, 2013, 09:09:51 pm
Bad luck TimO, heal fast    :-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 08 May, 2013, 09:48:38 pm
Sorry to hear of it, TimO.
Heal  fast.
JB
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 08 May, 2013, 10:45:24 pm
I suspect my commute is buggered for a day or two.  I'll have to do a short ride to pick up a parcel that would normally be on my way home, from an Amazon Locker, but I can use the spare bike that I leave at work, and just have a short 4 mile trip tomorrow or Friday.  Things should have unstiffened enough by next week, and keeping up the cycling will get stuff back to normal a bit faster.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 09 May, 2013, 08:14:42 am
Just caught up with this - sounds nasty Tim. Heal well!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 09 May, 2013, 09:00:35 am
Had an oncoming driver swerve straight at me on an otherwise empty village street.  ???

You're driving a bloody great rangerover, FFS, I'm sure it can cope with driving over a horse shit far better than I can cope with being driven at and forced on to the verge!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 09 May, 2013, 10:41:08 am
"I was talking to the car not you you twat."

That's what I got from Mr Angry-Man-On-A-Bike this morning by St Thomas's Hospital as he was annoyed at a car pulling out from the hospital side road. This is despite me, another cyclist and a motorbike all stopping to let the car pull out as the lights ahead had turned red and we weren't going anywhere anytime soon. Mr AMOAB decided that he couldn't wait and weaved through all of us before shouting at the car.

It's no great surprise that motorists think cyclists are a bunch of ****s.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 09 May, 2013, 10:55:58 am
Quote from: TimO on 08 May, 2013, 10:45:24 pm
I suspect my commute is buggered for a day or two.  I'll have to do a short ride to pick up a parcel that would normally be on my way home, from an Amazon Locker, but I can use the spare bike that I leave at work, and just have a short 4 mile trip tomorrow or Friday.  Things should have unstiffened enough by next week, and keeping up the cycling will get stuff back to normal a bit faster.

Are the socks OK though?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 09 May, 2013, 11:45:34 am
Quote from: Greenbank on 09 May, 2013, 10:41:08 am
"I was talking to the car not you you twat."

That's what I got from Mr Angry-Man-On-A-Bike this morning by St Thomas's Hospital as he was annoyed at a car pulling out from the hospital side road. This is despite me, another cyclist and a motorbike all stopping to let the car pull out as the lights ahead had turned red and we weren't going anywhere anytime soon. Mr AMOAB decided that he couldn't wait and weaved through all of us before shouting at the car.

It's no great surprise that motorists think cyclists are a bunch of ****s.

There were a lot of Wiggo Wannabees on road bikes around this morning, all behaving as though they were in a badly-run sportive.  I had one clown undertake me as I was moving out to go past a stationary bus and then cut across my front wheel. I might have had words with him at the next set of traffic lights - had he not ridden straight through them despite it being the intersection of two busy A-roads.  On Westminster Bridge, they were strewn out across the bus lane even though the adjacent cycle lane was empty, which was seriously irritating some of the cabbies.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 09 May, 2013, 12:06:25 pm
Quote from: Gandalf on 09 May, 2013, 10:55:58 am
Are the socks OK though?

The socks are OK, they only got slightly splattered!  They were about the only bit of clothing that didn't manage to get liberally dosed in blood. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 09 May, 2013, 12:27:42 pm
Cyclists of London. I'm in the middle of the road, arm outstretched to the right, what do you think I'm about to do? You have the entire lane, so why, why, why go around the outside? Literally ducking under my arm.

I wouldn't mind but it happened twice yesterday on the way home, at one point when approaching the Oval (down that little street), one lycra boy cut by front of three of us and whipped off to the left, causing a chorus of braking and invective.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 09 May, 2013, 12:50:28 pm
So I stop for man-in-a-van-that's-bigger-than-he-think-it-is to pull a three fifteen point turn in Cheapside. As I'm waiting a lorry arrives and stops behind me, and a cyclist who's too unobservant to work it out cuts up my inside, clipping me in the process.

So do I get any thanks, or even a nod of acknowlegement? Of course not, all the thanks go to truck driver behind, who had to stop anyway because I was in his way!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 09 May, 2013, 02:12:35 pm
Quote from: ian on 09 May, 2013, 12:27:42 pm
Cyclists of London. I'm in the middle of the road, arm outstretched to the right, what do you think I'm about to do? You have the entire lane, so why, why, why go around the outside? Literally ducking under my arm.

I wouldn't mind but it happened twice yesterday on the way home, at one point when approaching the Oval (down that little street), one lycra boy cut by front of three of us and whipped off to the left, causing a chorus of braking and invective.
With you there Ian.

And the following which keeps happening to me on Westminster Bridge:-

I'm riding slightly out from the left coming out from the cycle lane/bus as when it goes by County Hall, inevitably there is a tourist open top bus, rickshaw or taxi parked there.  I indicate right, and continue in the right hand side of the left lane.  All good so far, taxis and buses in the other lane seem to realise what you are doing.

I then start to overtake a bus stopped at the bus stop, giving a reasonable clearance, and keeping a sharp eye out for the indicator.  I then indicate left, as just after the bus stop is a left hand turn, buses and cycles only - http://goo.gl/maps/6B7Q5 (http://goo.gl/maps/6B7Q5)

Flying down the gap between my outstretched arm and the bus comes some idiot who nearly clips me.

I don't particularly like taking the turning before into Belvedere Road as it is full of rambling pedestrians as the road is partly shut off (and the road surface is pretty crap).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 09 May, 2013, 02:21:48 pm
South side of Westminster Bridge is a bit of a dog's dinner generally. I go off to Elephant and Castle so have to get myself into the centre of the lanes in order to be in the right hand turning lane at the next junction, on the south side of what used to be the roundabout. It's rarely helped by buses randomly pulling out, taxis accelerating for the lights and cyclists weaving around.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 09 May, 2013, 03:27:48 pm
If anyone is interested, a couple of piccies of my knee and face.  They're mildly gory, so if you're averse to blood or injuries, then you probably don't want to click, but it was nothing too disastrous, so there's not a lot to see.

(click to show/hide)

I can't work out how I managed to hit so many sides of my knee in one go!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 09 May, 2013, 04:08:53 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 09 May, 2013, 02:21:48 pm
South side of Westminster Bridge is a bit of a dog's dinner generally. I go off to Elephant and Castle so have to get myself into the centre of the lanes in order to be in the right hand turning lane at the next junction, on the south side of what used to be the roundabout. It's rarely helped by buses randomly pulling out, taxis accelerating for the lights and cyclists weaving around.

It's just as bad coming from Lambeth Palace Road and wanting to turn left onto WBR but keep to the right in order to go down that bus/cycle only road for York Road.

Position at the lights here (https://maps.google.co.uk/?ll=51.500121,-0.116875&spn=0.002348,0.004823&t=m&z=18&layer=c&cbll=51.500038,-0.116884&panoid=6KNysoQHoab81X4s688dDA&cbp=12,357.62,,0,10.31) (but in the ASL box) is a tricky problem.

Too far left and you get overtaken by vehicles who can only go straight over Westminster Bridge and not the right turn a bit later.
In the middle of the left hand lane (allegedly left turn only) is my preferred place and just about works.
Any further over (not even in the middle lane which is marked as left or straight on) and you get undertaken by cycles and motorbikes going straight on (bearing right) despite coming from a left turn only lane.

Mind you, it's better than the alternative (Abingdon St, 3/4 of the way around Parliament Square and then over WBR) and then similar problems (as SJSBrompton/Redlight) turning left onto Belvedere Rd or down the same Bus/Cycle only road infront of the hotel to get to York Road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 09 May, 2013, 04:42:47 pm
I tried that route a few times last year when the Olympics were on, and I fancied a different route - via Horseferry Road, Lambeth Bridge, up the Lambeth Palace Road, and then bottled out at that junction.  Naughty few yards on the pavement from the St Thomas Hospital exit to the official shared use path a few yards ahead, around the corner, dodging errant pedestrians walking in said path, up to the next crossing, over the crossing and jinked across to the Bus/Cycle Road.

But then there was less traffic in general at the time (which was lovely).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 09 May, 2013, 08:22:58 pm
***k me!
That was a windy and inordinately long ride home.

Wind.
Listen up.
Bu§§er off!
Tout suite
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 09 May, 2013, 08:30:00 pm
Quote from: TimO on 08 May, 2013, 03:35:05 pm
I tired to shorten my commute by three miles last night, by using an ambulance for part of it!...

Missed all that. Hope you recover as fast as humanly possible.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 09 May, 2013, 08:52:11 pm
Nasty headwind and rain to Bristol Temple Meads, with a smattering of cretins. By the way: I deeply hate concrete road surfaces.

Now I’m on train #2 after train #1 terminated at Reading. Train #2 is sat at Slough waiting to be allowed to depart with at least 20 minutes additional delay.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 09 May, 2013, 10:02:05 pm
Bloody windy.  Pissing down rain.  25 miles all up for the day.  So tired, setting off, that it hurt to even think about it but because of timetable stupidity this week had no choice.  Survived.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 10 May, 2013, 09:13:05 am
Quote from: TimO on 09 May, 2013, 03:27:48 pm
(click to show/hide)

I can't work out how I managed to hit so many sides of my knee in one go!
You have talent. I'm not sure what to call the talent, but  you certainly have it, in buckets.

Zev tried licking your wounds yet?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 10 May, 2013, 10:52:07 am
20mph gusting to 30 right on the nose all the way in this morning.


Forecast says 30mph gusting to 45 on the way home - but behind me. Should be fun . . .
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 10 May, 2013, 11:26:25 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 10 May, 2013, 09:13:05 am
Zev tried licking your wounds yet?

No, but she's got a habit of jumping onto the bed, and deciding that my ribcage/knee is a good place to plonk herself down with some force, until my body involuntarily jolts in response!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 10 May, 2013, 03:42:39 pm
Complained today to a company about one of their drivers careering around while on the 'phone. Was quite pleased with this response, particularly the reference to hands-free kits not being that safe. 

Dear Redlight,
 
Thank you for your email.  XXX takes all complaints seriously and thank you for bringing this to our attention.
 
Firstly, I would like to apologise for the experience you had when encountering an employee of XXX.  Some of our staff are provided with hand held mobile devices, however we have stringent policies in place which we expect our staff to adhere to.
 
Below is an extract from our driving policy:
 
"It is illegal to use a hand-held mobile phone whilst driving.
 
The definition of driving within the Regulations includes situations where the vehicle is stationary but the engine is still running, such as sitting in a stationary line of traffic. In order to avoid committing an offence a driver will need to have parked and switched the engine off before using the phone.
 
It is also an offence for anyone to 'cause or permit' someone else to use a hand-held phone whilst driving. Managers, therefore, must neither ask nor expect their staff to use their mobile phones whilst driving. It doesn't mean that they cannot provide their staff with phones or unknowingly call them whilst they are driving, but they should not expect them to answer.
 
Research undertaken by ROSPA shows that hands-free phones are no safer than hand-held phones. The main danger of being on the phone while driving is disruption of concentration."
 
Sadly, I will not be able to advise the outcome of any investigation due to Employee Data Protection Laws but I would like to assure you that this matter has been passed to the managers concerned for appropriate action.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 10 May, 2013, 08:59:39 pm
Did my normal commute plus some today. Over 80km and I didn't even need to go in to work. German TV company ARD wanted some on bike footage of London so I obliged. Unfortunately, they had problems with public transport and taxis so by the time I set off all the bustle of London commuting had subsided. This wasn't a huge issue as one of the rather bulky and obtrusive cameras they used failed to record any footage and the exercise proved pointless. Once I returned home I got the call telling me that it had all gone wrong so I offered to ride in again, chase some traffic (which there seemed to be very little of) and try to get some useful footage. Then it was back home. All in all a nice day out on the bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 13 May, 2013, 09:32:13 am
Went down the A327 today for a bit of variety.  Have come to the conclusion there is no good way into Reading from the south but mixing up the routes provides a bit fo variety.  They had stuck some temporary traffic lights to dig a hole.  I hope the hole is happy as I doubt those whose vehicles are more than two feet wide are  ;D.  Otherwise very green and leafy and pretty this morning.  Still not very warm.  Wonder why jerseys for special events are always short sleeved when there is so little time of the year when they get to be <shown off> worn.  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 13 May, 2013, 10:39:51 am
Who put that wind there! Brrr.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 13 May, 2013, 12:43:52 pm
Quote from: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 13 May, 2013, 09:32:13 am
Wonder why jerseys for special events are always short sleeved when there is so little time of the year when they get to be <shown off> worn.  ???

That's what base layers and arm warmers are for.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 13 May, 2013, 07:36:16 pm
snakebite blowout at 32mph on dual carriageway. Joy

Finding out spare innertube is 26". Double joy

Only 3 patches left in tool pouch and 2 holes in inner tube. Triply joy

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 13 May, 2013, 07:43:15 pm
^^^^
it never rains;it only pours down :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 13 May, 2013, 07:52:33 pm
One of those "wish I had a helmetcam" moments tonight...

Coming through Beckenham, a Dirty Foreign car turned right at a crossroads, cutting across the path of a police car with blues and twos in full effect.

The look on the face of the polis was priceless. The number plate of the offending car was even more priceless - the first four letters were COCK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 13 May, 2013, 07:53:43 pm
Quote from: jogler on 13 May, 2013, 07:43:15 pm
^^^^
it never rains;it only pours down :(

Untrue.  Quite often it hails.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 13 May, 2013, 09:24:56 pm
Double-articulated lorry (Polish plates) decided to overtake me at a pinch point in Parson's Green on the way home (5.45pm-ish). I saw it coming behind me (having overtaken it somewhere up near Cheyne Walk) and thought "he won't try that here" and, when realising he wasn't going to slow down at all whilst he swerved in, I opted for an emergency stop and hugging the kerb. If I hadn't then there might not have been much of me left this evening.

I could have got the details or remonstrated with the driver as I eventually caught up with it on the far side of Putney Bridge but thought there's little point.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lordy on 13 May, 2013, 09:40:06 pm
Headwind, headwind and a little more headwind on the way home.  Still the bluebells remain pretty :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 14 May, 2013, 09:05:33 am
Quote from: TimO on 09 May, 2013, 03:27:48 pm
If anyone is interested, a couple of piccies of my knee and face.  They're mildly gory, so if you're averse to blood or injuries, then you probably don't want to click, but it was nothing too disastrous, so there's not a lot to see.

(click to show/hide)

I can't work out how I managed to hit so many sides of my knee in one go!
Ooooh, "SCAB POSSIE, Front & Centre!" ;D

GWS
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 14 May, 2013, 09:13:53 am
Ahh, that caused the ol'HR to spike...

FFS CAT! Don't decide to dash across 1 metre in front while I'm hooning d/h at R17; consider yourself lucky you've got 8.5 lives left - you almost got made into a Damien Hirst art display.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 14 May, 2013, 09:18:40 am
I have copied this from another thread but it is relevant-

Well, that was an experience!

My route to work takes in Quarry Wood Road Marlow (https://maps.google.co.uk/maps?q=Quarry+Wood+Road,+Marlow&hl=en&ll=51.56189,-0.760484&spn=0.000107,0.034933&sll=52.8382,-2.327815&sspn=7.223286,14.040527&oq=quarry+wood+road,+marlow&hnear=Quarry+Wood+Rd,+Marlow,+Windsor+and+Maidenhead+SL7,+United+Kingdom&t=m&layer=c&cbll=51.56189,-0.760484&panoid=ZRbKE9rK-_lBoS9UID_6hA&cbp=12,177.8,,0,4.18&z=14). Ascending this hill on a 'bent is very different to an upright. It is all leg power as opposed to making use of body weight. Progress was slow but consistant.

Once the hill was defeated, the progress was much swifter.

Overtakes by vehicles were a revelation. Every single one was done with the passing vehicle in the opposite lane. Loads of room  :thumbsup:

Steering is a bit twitchy and will take a bit of getting used to.

The legs are complaining slightly but, 8.5 miles as a first proper outing was thoroughly enjoyed   :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 14 May, 2013, 09:23:14 am
Quote from: fuzzy on 14 May, 2013, 09:18:40 am
I have copied this from another thread but it is relevant-

Well, that was an experience!

My route to work takes in Quarry Wood Road Marlow (https://maps.google.co.uk/maps?q=Quarry+Wood+Road,+Marlow&hl=en&ll=51.56189,-0.760484&spn=0.000107,0.034933&sll=52.8382,-2.327815&sspn=7.223286,14.040527&oq=quarry+wood+road,+marlow&hnear=Quarry+Wood+Rd,+Marlow,+Windsor+and+Maidenhead+SL7,+United+Kingdom&t=m&layer=c&cbll=51.56189,-0.760484&panoid=ZRbKE9rK-_lBoS9UID_6hA&cbp=12,177.8,,0,4.18&z=14). Ascending this hill on a 'bent is very different to an upright. It is all leg power as opposed to making use of body weight. Progress was slow but consistant.

Once the hill was defeated, the progress was much swifter.

Overtakes by vehicles were a revelation. Every single one was done with the passing vehicle in the opposite lane. Loads of room  :thumbsup:

Steering is a bit twitchy and will take a bit of getting used to.

The legs are complaining slightly but, 8.5 miles as a first proper outing was thoroughly enjoyed   :D
Have a cookie ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 14 May, 2013, 09:28:58 am
My first CBB in a long long while, far too long in fact.

10.5 miles.
1.5 hours
A small amount of bad navigation and Fen's Hills are responsible for the time.
Only one idiot, in a Fiat 500, who thought it was his sole duty to point out the error of my ways by not giving me any space whilst overtaking, beeping his horn and then pointing to the non-compulsory bike path on the other side of the road.
Everyone else gave me plenty of room.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 14 May, 2013, 09:38:05 am
Uxbridge Commute today.  Traffic, traffic, traffic.  Roads between Ascot, Windsor, Datchet and Langley were chokka today.  Spent most of my time motorbike style riding down the middle, keeping it careful.  Got a nice surprise in Datchet when a Merc drive stopped to let me round an oversize van.  Various other drivers saw me coming and move inwards slightly to give me more room.  Perhaps they've all been on the road so long they've given up hope of getting to their destination.

Longsleeve top and rain jacket this morning in preparation for forecast winter weather later on.  Cooked.  If it doesn't rain in the SE tonight it is all down to this sacrifice.  But I'm not that hopeful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 14 May, 2013, 09:49:59 am
Windsor Show all week which is increasing local traffic significantly.

Me, well I got a compulsary ride home yesterday, as I got to the station to find that the line was closed due to a train striking a person at Longcross. At least I had the bike with me unlike last week when a fallen tree closed the line.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 14 May, 2013, 10:04:39 am
Front tyre blowout on a steep descent at 35mph this morning. That was fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 14 May, 2013, 10:06:44 am
Quote from: citoyen on 14 May, 2013, 10:04:39 am
Front tyre blowout on a steep descent at 35mph this morning. That was fun.


:o well done staying upright.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 14 May, 2013, 10:12:52 am
A courier bag full of overshoes, rainlegs and goretex top, in prep for this afterlunch.

Quote from: citoyen on 14 May, 2013, 10:04:39 am
Front tyre blowout on a steep descent at 35mph this morning. That was fun.
:o :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 14 May, 2013, 10:23:03 am
Quote from: citoyen on 14 May, 2013, 10:04:39 am
Front tyre blowout on a steep descent at 35mph this morning. That was fun.
You today and me yesterday.

Is there something in the air?

I hit some debris. Do you know what caused yours?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 14 May, 2013, 10:56:14 am
Don't know. There's a cut in the inner tube but I'm not sure if that was caused by whatever punctured the tyre or a pinch caused as I was gradually rolling to a stop. Didn't find any likely culprits embedded in the tyre. I assume there's just lots of nasty stuff washed into the road at the moment after the heavy rain showers we've had in the last couple of days.

Btw, I say "blowout" but that probably makes it sound more dramatic than it was. Let's just say the tyre went very soft very quickly. And it's not fun at that speed!

My current front tyre is a cheapo Vittoria thing I had lying about, which I've only fitted because I had to replace the Durano Plus that was beyond worn out. This incident makes me realise I really ought to get hold of another DP.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 14 May, 2013, 11:05:33 am
Mine was a rubino pro.  Tyre had gone a bit soft, hit a 2" chunk of stone. There is a *lot* of it on the A64 now, since they switched to using crushed building rubble to fill the ditch beside the road. You can see the tyremarks in the rubble, bloody amazing how often vehicles go off into it, must be a daily occurrence.

But one of my only two punctures on my D+ (rear tyre) was a snakebite so don't think they are immune. The other was wire from truck tyre casing on the road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 14 May, 2013, 11:08:12 am
Quote from: Jurek on 14 May, 2013, 10:12:52 am
A courier bag full of overshoes, rainlegs and goretex top, in prep for this afterlunch.

I've figured it will hit on the way home. A maximum of 40 minutes getting wet, so I've just packed a rain cape and that's all. Cold hands this morning, so I might regret the choice of gloves though!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 14 May, 2013, 11:31:11 am
Quote from: matthew on 14 May, 2013, 09:49:59 am
Windsor Show all week which is increasing local traffic significantly.

Me, well I got a compulsary ride home yesterday, as I got to the station to find that the line was closed due to a train striking a person at Longcross. At least I had the bike with me unlike last week when a fallen tree closed the line.

Isn't that the second week in a row there has been a fatality at Longcross?

I got home via the slow train to Weybridge via Hounslow as it was there and not too full when I got to Waterloo.  Platforms 18 and 19 (generally where the Reading and Windsor trains go from) looked like carnage.  I was surprised our train wasn't more crowded so I guess that must be all the people after Virginia Water.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 14 May, 2013, 11:32:54 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 14 May, 2013, 11:05:33 am
Tyre had gone a bit soft, hit a 2" chunk of stone.

Yikes!  :o

Quote
But one of my only two punctures on my D+ (rear tyre) was a snakebite so don't think they are immune. The other was wire from truck tyre casing on the road.

Indeed. I really had to replace my rear D+ in the end because it was so worn, I was starting to get quite a few punctures (the current rear D+ is what used to be on the front). Unfortunately, D+ aren't cheap, so I haven't saved up enough pocket money for a replacement yet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 14 May, 2013, 11:55:39 am
Quote from: citoyen on 14 May, 2013, 11:32:54 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 14 May, 2013, 11:05:33 am
Tyre had gone a bit soft, hit a 2" chunk of stone.

Yikes!  :o

I really must take a photo. The stones vary from scattered individuals (I'm getting good at slalom) to small piles (I'm getting good at bunny hopping although it's hard when on the tribars).

There is a reason why I'm contemplating a cyclocross bike  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 14 May, 2013, 12:47:22 pm
Quote from: SJSBrompton on 14 May, 2013, 11:31:11 am
Quote from: matthew on 14 May, 2013, 09:49:59 am
Windsor Show all week which is increasing local traffic significantly.

Me, well I got a compulsary ride home yesterday, as I got to the station to find that the line was closed due to a train striking a person at Longcross. At least I had the bike with me unlike last week when a fallen tree closed the line.

Isn't that the second week in a row there has been a fatality at Longcross?

I got home via the slow train to Weybridge via Hounslow as it was there and not too full when I got to Waterloo.  Platforms 18 and 19 (generally where the Reading and Windsor trains go from) looked like carnage.  I was surprised our train wasn't more crowded so I guess that must be all the people after Virginia Water.

Not a lot of people get off at Longcross - its mostly for the Qinetiq site.  If this was the US there would now be a dozen conspiracy theories.  Slow day at work so can see mesmerising advance of the wet stuff across Dorset and into Hampshire.  Glad have packed winter gear for the return tonight  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 14 May, 2013, 12:55:37 pm
Quote from: SJSBrompton on 14 May, 2013, 11:31:11 am
Quote from: matthew on 14 May, 2013, 09:49:59 am
Windsor Show all week which is increasing local traffic significantly.

Me, well I got a compulsary ride home yesterday, as I got to the station to find that the line was closed due to a train striking a person at Longcross. At least I had the bike with me unlike last week when a fallen tree closed the line.

Isn't that the second week in a row there has been a fatality at Longcross?

I got home via the slow train to Weybridge via Hounslow as it was there and not too full when I got to Waterloo.  Platforms 18 and 19 (generally where the Reading and Windsor trains go from) looked like carnage.  I was surprised our train wasn't more crowded so I guess that must be all the people after Virginia Water.
No last week a train struck a fallen tree and got stuck for ~ 3hours until they decided that it couldn't be repaired and driven out and another train was brought in to offload the passengers!

local potentially bad taste joke below.
(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 14 May, 2013, 06:15:15 pm
I had no jacket, so it rained.
I had to dredge up my good citizen parts. They're buried pretty deeply.
Suffice it to say, those may be my hands and feet, but that's not my dog:
(http://i952.photobucket.com/albums/ae7/fboab/20130514_165632.jpg)
Better being muttered at swearily by me than under a truck, I reckoned. She followed me over the roundabout and was quite obedient when I told her to come over here and sit down. Owner arrived 10 minutes later, following a phone call. During which time it kicked it down, and that charming aroma of wet dog drifted all over me.

Still, the brewery's stinking tonight too, so I can't smell it any more.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 14 May, 2013, 07:11:00 pm
Well, that was a rather damp ride home, although if truth be known I was expecting it to be significantly wetter.
Always a bonus.
Tonight's added interest was the front brake cable's decision that Homerton is the place to be cleft in twain.
It's quite surprising how a ~50% reduction in one's capacity to stop sharpens up one's concentration.
Perhaps by as much as ohhh...... 50%.
Luckily I passed the doors of Cycles UK in Creek Road moments before they were due to be closed and availed myself of a brace of cables and some bar tape which I shall fettle forthwith.
Following which I shall fettle some kedgeree. Nom.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 14 May, 2013, 07:18:51 pm
Ooh,  only half the brakes in the rain.  Not nice.
I have to say that if my front cable broke, I'll loose 70% braking ability.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 14 May, 2013, 07:40:21 pm
Your %age is probably closer to the truth.
I was just typing in a hurry (to get on with the fettle) hence the '~' symbol of absolution.
Job's done, all bar fitting the crimp to the cable end - remind me, someone, which way round do they go on?
Oh, and I may as well adjust  the rear. Given that it worked quite hard this evening.
Dammit! Oily keyboard.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: caerau on 14 May, 2013, 08:30:32 pm
Yes I had a cable issue in the pissing rain this evening.  Not as bad as a brake cable though. I fitted a new gear cable and derailleur yesterday.  It seems I hadn't tightened the clamp bolt on the derailleur enough - amazing how you never find stuff like this out when it's not in biblical flood mode. Still at least the cycle paths were blessedly pedestrian-free. ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 14 May, 2013, 08:44:09 pm
Back from Uxbridge, slippery horrible roads, stair-rod stuff through Crowthorne and Eversley and just plain miserable after that.  But, on the plus side, the usual May gear of base layer long sleeve top, and thick rain jacket, bib tights and thick winter gloves did me proud.

Any armchair critic who wants to have a go at Bradley Wiggins for cautious descending is welcome to have a go at sliding round Britain on saturated roads and see how long their nerves hang out.   It wasn't fun out there, especially with two filled panniers that don't do the braking distance any favours either.

Oh.  And arrived home at exactly 8pm on time to the minute to that promised.   :smug: :smug:  And Mrs CET had already cooked mince  :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 14 May, 2013, 08:56:12 pm
Tonight's ride home was wet.

But that was better than yesterday which was windy and that sort of horrible wind which is both a headwind and a gusty sidewind at the same time.  The wind-inflicted wobble coming through the narrowest part of the village was scary.  Tonight's wind had the good grace to be mostly behind me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 14 May, 2013, 09:10:54 pm
FFS!  D'ya think it might rain?   >:(

I rode home (+ the extra loop) in a bleedin' downpour.  I got in and realised that I was supposed to have picked up a script from the doc's as I was completely out of Staying Alive magic.
Rode to the doc's - in a downpour.
Rode to the chemist's - in a downpour
Rode to the chemist's that was open - in a downpour.
Rode home - in (guess what?)
Got home and the boy reminded me that we'd agreed to do Chish & Fipps tonight.
Rode to the Chip Shop (actually - it didn't matter any more)

It's summer, then.  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 14 May, 2013, 09:13:04 pm
I'll guess mentioning I've just been out for a 20 miler with a friend in sunshine and light winds is not going to go down very well :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 14 May, 2013, 09:14:49 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 14 May, 2013, 09:13:04 pm
I'll guess mentioning I've just been out for a 20 miler with a friend in sunshine and light winds is not going to go down very well :P

GIT!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 14 May, 2013, 09:21:03 pm
Maybe I should put my rainlegs back on?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 14 May, 2013, 09:23:21 pm
Please do. 
About 7:30 a.m. tomorrow would be nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: caerau on 14 May, 2013, 10:44:27 pm
I can only apologise.  That nice day we had the other weekend.  We got our garden table and chairs out of the garage.

Cleary this has angered the rain gods. Soooory.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Speshact on 14 May, 2013, 10:55:18 pm
I cycle around Enfield in the rain for the afternoon. I love my cape.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 14 May, 2013, 11:03:40 pm
I too got very moist on the way home. Being low to the ground and having an extra wheel out front makes for confident descending though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 14 May, 2013, 11:08:24 pm
Quote from: fuzzy on 14 May, 2013, 11:03:40 pm
I too got very moist on the way home. Being low to the ground and having an extra wheel out front makes for confident descending though.

This is why the ICE mudguards are worth every ludicrously expensive penny.

Avoiding the rain pooling in your crotch is covered in the advanced class.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 14 May, 2013, 11:28:37 pm
Quote from: Kim on 14 May, 2013, 11:08:24 pm
Quote from: fuzzy on 14 May, 2013, 11:03:40 pm
I too got very moist on the way home. Being low to the ground and having an extra wheel out front makes for confident descending though.

This is why the ICE mudguards are worth every ludicrously expensive penny.

Avoiding the rain pooling in your crotch is covered in the advanced class.

Well, Boss has a rear mudguard but no fronts  :-\

I accumulated a wet crotch and arse and discovered rainlegs make for good air brakes.

It was tremendous fun though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 15 May, 2013, 01:23:42 am
I don't seem to get an air braking effect with the rainlegs, though the knee-covery bit does look fairly ludicrous at the highest point of the stroke.  They also do a reasonable job of keeping my crotch dry (I suspect your problem may be related to the relatively sponge-like properties of the ICE seat compared to Ventisit).  The wet arse is, I suspect, inevitable - but at least it's not gritty wet like you get on an un-mudguarded DF bike.

Have you had the cold water pooling inside the elbows of your jacket thing yet?  That's good fun too.  The trick being to extend your arm downwards to let it drain out *before* raising your hand to your head/face for whatever reason.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 15 May, 2013, 08:24:34 am
Quote from: Kim on 15 May, 2013, 01:23:42 am
Have you had the cold water pooling inside the elbows of your jacket thing yet?  That's good fun too.  The trick being to extend your arm downwards to let it drain out *before* raising your hand to your head/face for whatever reason.

No I haven't. I may have been inadertantly prepared for that by cinching the cuffs tight to keep the wind out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 15 May, 2013, 08:30:05 am
Gah!  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 15 May, 2013, 08:30:53 am
The ride back last night was a good deal less urgent than the ride in.

Also less windy.

It was wetter, though.

I have discovered that I can do about 10 of the 13.5 miles on either bike paths or quiet country roads, so only have to brave the traffic for 3.5 miles.

That, I like!

No CBB today, though as I am going to look at a house share and it's blooming windy today!

Back to it tomorrow, though, if I can find my mojo again, I think it is skulking under the pile of damp and dirty clothes at the digs.  I must really really fit mudguards to the Dave Yates, my arse ended up covered in a layer of Cambridgeshire's finest grinding paste (AKA skog)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 15 May, 2013, 12:39:41 pm
Quote from: fuzzy on 15 May, 2013, 08:24:34 am
Quote from: Kim on 15 May, 2013, 01:23:42 am
Have you had the cold water pooling inside the elbows of your jacket thing yet?  That's good fun too.  The trick being to extend your arm downwards to let it drain out *before* raising your hand to your head/face for whatever reason.

No I haven't. I may have been inadertantly prepared for that by cinching the cuffs tight to keep the wind out.

It's a fine balance.  Too little airflow and you overheat.  The usual ventilation doesn't work very well on a recumbent seat, so I only really wear a jacket in extremely cold or extremely wet weather.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Marco Stefano on 15 May, 2013, 05:21:19 pm
Yesterday's commute sounds like many on here; damp & headwindy. I decided to take the longer alternative route alongside the river as my usual route will be closed for road rebuilding for 6 weeks from mid-June. Morning ride was fab, evening ride was hard and triggered calf cramping, which made me even slower...

Am trying again tomorrow. Still wearing (and having to wear) winter stuff in mid-May; what's going on?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Marco Stefano on 15 May, 2013, 05:30:49 pm
According to xcweather, tomorrow looks better here.

Kim must have her rainlegs on. (Thanks Kim - taking another one for the team!  :thumbsup:)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 15 May, 2013, 05:36:56 pm
One of my loveliest moments awheel was in Bowland, when I came around the corner to find the road completely blocked by livestock (I can't remember if it was sheep or cattle; it makes no difference) ambling in the same direction.  I slowed right down, and enjoyed having a natter with the farmer on his quad idling up the road behind the flock/herd.  Sunshine, nowhere particular to get to, and a shared giggle.  Splendid.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 16 May, 2013, 09:26:36 am
As I rode along the crest of Winter Hill, the valley in which the Thames meanders Londonwards was completely full of mist. A beautiful sight with the sun on my right shoulder and the mist filled valley on my left, with the Chiltern Hills visble beyond.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Vince on 16 May, 2013, 11:28:16 am
Madam, the thing attached to your windscreen; no, not the air freshener; the shiney mirror. If you looked in it occasionally you would see me behind you, and you might then be persuaded not to randomly put on your brakes for no reason.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 16 May, 2013, 11:55:07 am
The warm weather means lots of bods on BSOs weaving all over the road like I shouldn't wonder. They annoy me and puncture my zen-like calm.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 16 May, 2013, 03:15:19 pm
Gah! Splutter! Flies!

South-East London was full of them this morning. I arrived at every light with several dozen little green lazy hitchhikers. I also swallowed several and took numerous eyeball kamikaze hits. Hopefully they'll have all had their crazy bug sex and died by this evening. Or have taken over the world.

I, for one, welcome our new little green insect overlords.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 16 May, 2013, 04:02:20 pm
If they're invading then they are doing it around Heathrow area as well.  Hit in the cheek and lip several times by little tiny buzzy things last night on the way home from the station.

I was on the main road as well.  There is an alternative route along the Longford river, but apart from the dodgy surface and groups of yobs potential, there are usually swarms of flies.  Didn't expect to get hit by insects on the main road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 16 May, 2013, 04:10:27 pm
When I leftwork yesterday they were swarming - I assumed they were there because work is adjacent to a reservoir - but no - much of my commute to the north of the river is through or alongside parks and other greenery where the flies continued to swarm, but they were still there in their droves when I was coming through the Isle of Dogs - it wasn't until I reached the tranquility of the south side of the river that they seemed to subside. I've just stepped outdoors to conduct a fly census. Result = 0.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 16 May, 2013, 05:49:58 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 16 May, 2013, 04:10:27 pm
they

What sort of flies?

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 16 May, 2013, 06:31:19 pm
Minimal flies here, I assume all the Birmingham acts as an insecticide.  Rather a lot of wasps, though.  And some pillock in an ageing Volkswagen who did a passable impression of a wasp at point-blank range in a deliberate attempt to scare me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 16 May, 2013, 08:09:22 pm
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 16 May, 2013, 05:49:58 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 16 May, 2013, 04:10:27 pm
they

What sort of flies?

As a botanist, I can only say they were very green and a couple of millimetres long. They seemed docile but were unwilling to answer further questions. I didn't encounter any on the way home, but I went via Streatham, and generally nothing goes there willingly.

I did manage to lock my house keys in the shed though, which was genius as my wife is in Italy and not coming home till Saturday. Of course, the person with the spare keys now lives in Maida Vale, which would have been vaguely useful, were she not in Australia at the moment. The only other keys are with the inlaws in South Gloucestershire. I couldn't even get through the catflap because I'm not microchipped.

In the end I discovered how ludicrously easy it was to break into my shed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 16 May, 2013, 08:34:46 pm
This morning.

  -ve  - Frost. Argh. Fingers. Cold. Sore. Argh.

  +ve - Stopped to watch skylark taking off.
           Barn owl flitting along
           Roe deer "sunbathing" by a hedge.
           More rabbits than you could shake a stick at.

Then I ruined it all by arriving at work.  Hey ho...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 17 May, 2013, 09:16:20 am
Self! That wasn't the best bit of of T-junction twattery(*) now, was it?

(*) All's fine.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: phantasmagoriana on 20 May, 2013, 06:53:13 pm
On the way home, I passed someone who was using studded tyres! Perhaps they use them year-round, just in case - probably sensible.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 20 May, 2013, 07:35:01 pm
Quote from: phantasmagoriana on 20 May, 2013, 06:53:13 pm
On the way home, I passed someone who was using studded tyres! Perhaps they use them year-round, just in case - probably sensible.

I expect it was Kim.  You know, like the rain legs thing.
She's making sure it doesn't snow.

Good old Kim.  :thumbsup:  Taking one for the rest of us.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 20 May, 2013, 07:42:12 pm
Yeah, it's the Rollrights ride take 2 on Friday.  I'll be the one with the studded tyres, rainlegs, down jacket, sunblock, SPD snowshoes, sou'wester, snorkel and ice-axe.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 May, 2013, 07:46:22 pm
No crampons? :o

You're taking a chance, aren't you?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 20 May, 2013, 07:56:32 pm
Hmm, you've got me worried now...


Incidentally, how many Silly Commuter Racing points for having a cyclist catch up and ask how I'd managed to get ahead of them while they took a quicker route and I stuck to the cycle route (not going particularly quickly, as I was looking for signs relating to road closures)?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 20 May, 2013, 07:56:41 pm
Don't forget the Factor 40, Castle Cabs on voice controlled auto dial, penicillin, map of Cumbria (well, you know my sense of direction)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Reg.T on 20 May, 2013, 08:23:20 pm
Don't you just love bus drivers? A mid-sized not-in-service bus passed me stupidly and unnecessarily close on the way home tonight, but then had to slow so I started to overtake and shouted "Oi". When he started to accelerate away, my second exclamation wasn't as polite. He swerved to the right (a bit) and braked. I completed the overtake. He opened the door as he pulled back alongside, and I explained why I'd sought to remonstrate. He said that if I called him that again, I'd be under the wheels of his bus. Delightful.
Arrived home hot and bothered. It had been a pleasant recovery ride (after BCM) up until then.
I know I should've got the reg, but didn't.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 20 May, 2013, 10:56:45 pm
Quote from: iddu on 17 May, 2013, 09:16:20 am
Self! That wasn't the best bit of of T-junction twattery(*) now, was it?

(*) All's fine.

LOL. Shit happens!

We had a situation on the Lincoln 400 on Saturday. We came up behind a Slow Moving Agri Vehicle Wiv Flashing Orange Lights (SMAVWFOL) on the A19.

I may have overestimated our speed differential. Suffice to say, I committed us to overtake on a bend. Cue fboab in the Worry Seat behind me - "Really?  You can't see anything!" A major injection of power came from behind and we safely overtook the Deere John Thing before dire things happened.

Later, fboab commented on her input of power. "Well, it was that, or die".

Fair point.  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 21 May, 2013, 08:48:09 pm
Good news my pulled muscle no longer stops me riding.  The past three weeks I have rolled down the hill to Radyr station caught the train to Bridgend station and pedaled to work. Then in the evening I rode to Pencoed station to avoid the inclines to Bridgend station caught the train and used a route containing footpaths to minimise the climb back to my house. 4 x 2½ = 10 miles.

Yesterday I used the train once more (I still had a trip on my weekly ticket). The morning was the same but in the evening I returned to Bridgend station but did not change trains at Cardiff Central.  I got off and rode the six miles to home and up the 1 in 11 to my house.  In the evening I rode to the Cardiff Byways meeting in Whitchurch then afterwards back up the 1 in 11 again.  I am ready to resume commuting.

Today I rode the full 2 x 16 = 32miles. Very nice except for a bus overtake on the way. Very close but he pulled out after he passed so his heart was in the right place.


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 21 May, 2013, 09:56:06 pm
That thing where you're bowling along at ~40km/h (on the flat) and a passing motorcyclist strikes up conversation...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 22 May, 2013, 07:41:05 am
^^^^^ I should be so lucky, I didn't see any motorcyclists going my way this morning The fixed wheel gearing Legs won't let me do that.  :-[

Four straight commuting rides, looking after my sisters house. Considerate driving all round and the weather has been appropriate for shorts.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 22 May, 2013, 11:01:46 pm
So, I came to the end of the nice traffic free path and was just about to cross the road that no cars ever turn into and fortunately glanced, and there was a car so I came to a sudden and, tbh, pretty inelegant halt. Just as I was thinking myself lucky that there were no witnesses to my graceless step down, a rider pulled up behind me and said "Hello! I thought it was you!"

Turned out to be a former colleague who I last saw a couple of years ago in Fetfud, and last worked with back in 2007. We discussed our weekend activities, me: 250 miles. Him: 100 mile sportive averaging 20mph. I think he won that round. We also discussed commutes: he, fully lycra'd up, had extended the mile and half from his current home to the 16 miles from his previous home. I ride to a distant train station for somewhat similar reasons.

"Good to see you're still cycling" he said

"It's the future of transport" I replied.

"It is that. If only more people thought so."
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 23 May, 2013, 11:34:33 am
I had to stop and wait this morning as two Canada Geese took their goslings across the road. Mind you so did the oncoming cars and the truck behind me.

Speaking of which the driver of that truck was very patient and deserved more praise than my simple wave could imply only I didn't get the plate.  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 23 May, 2013, 11:58:27 am
Two tube trains and DLR to get to Island Gardens (around 50 minutes) to collect a bicycle borrowed by a friend.  The most direct route is only 10km.  Reminded how much quicker journeys are on two wheels.

Then an easy-paced ride to the office, dressed in work clothes.  Made for a pleasant change.   :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 23 May, 2013, 12:03:15 pm
Once again the Waitrose truck drivers' training programme was evident this morning.

A long and patient wait behind me until the road was clear, I slowed and pulled a little left, he/she pulled out wide and passed with masses of room, I signalled when the back of the truck was past and the driver pulled in with a cheery double toot. I was able to give him another wave when I passed in traffic a mile or two later.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 23 May, 2013, 12:19:37 pm
I like that sort of positive interaction you often get with truck drivers - but seldom with those in cars.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 23 May, 2013, 12:42:14 pm
Indeed, with the truck earlier today having got through the junctions and found just enough oncomming traffic to stop him overtaking I ducked up a dropover onto the pavement for ~20m to let him past, got a friendly toot for acknowlegement.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Reg.T on 23 May, 2013, 12:58:59 pm
I do that too - especially when there's some self-interest involved  :demon:

There's a downhill on my commute in a 30 limit, followed by over a mile of flat road that's mostly a 40 limit. If there's a lorry behind me at the top of the hill, I'll usually let it past (before the road narrows), and then cruise up behind down the hill and slipstream behind it along the flat. Saves us both time.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 23 May, 2013, 01:06:50 pm
Quote from: Reg.T on 23 May, 2013, 12:58:59 pm
I do that too - especially when there's some self-interest involved  :demon:

There's a downhill on my commute in a 30 limit, followed by over a mile of flat road that's mostly a 40 limit. If there's a lorry behind me at the top of the hill, I'll usually let it past (before the road narrows), and then cruise up behind down the hill and slipstream behind it along the flat. Saves us both time.  ;D
That's worth hanging around near the top of the hill for !!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 23 May, 2013, 03:57:02 pm
Quote from: Reg.T on 23 May, 2013, 12:58:59 pm
I do that too - especially when there's some self-interest involved  :demon:

There's a downhill on my commute in a 30 limit, followed by over a mile of flat road that's mostly a 40 limit. If there's a lorry behind me at the top of the hill, I'll usually let it past (before the road narrows), and then cruise up behind down the hill and slipstream behind it along the flat. Saves us both time.  ;D

In this case the road had gone from gentle downhill at 20mph in residential roads to gentle uphill at 15 mph on an main route into town.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 28 May, 2013, 01:30:27 pm
I took the route with the steep section for the first time with my new singlespeed. Looks like it will take a little more practice to get up there yet as I had to walk the last (and steepest) section.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 29 May, 2013, 09:19:18 am
Quote from: Reg.T on 23 May, 2013, 12:58:59 pm
I do that too - especially when there's some self-interest involved  :demon:

There's a downhill on my commute in a 30 limit, followed by over a mile of flat road that's mostly a 40 limit. If there's a lorry behind me at the top of the hill, I'll usually let it past (before the road narrows), and then cruise up behind down the hill and slipstream behind it along the flat. Saves us both time.  ;D

Tractors are the best - speed governed to 27mph  :thumbsup:  As long as you don't look too closely at the jagged metally bits they normally have attached to the back.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 29 May, 2013, 09:26:47 am
The ones that go on the A64 dual-carriageway are a bit quicker than that. I've managed to tuck in behind one now and then; they keep up a steady 50kph.

Anyway, I got a bramble across the head this morning. Ear all crusty with blood by the time I got into work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 29 May, 2013, 11:46:41 am
Couldn't find my gloves this morning. Gave up, knew I'd miss train (and next) so cycled all the way, and stopped at Evans to buy another pair of gloves so I'd have a spare pair. :)

I went the A370 all the way into Bristol. This is becoming my preferred route, despite the heavier traffic it feels safer than the route through Long Ashton. I need to perfect how I get off there and through central Bristol, though. I went via Hotwells Basin this morning, not sure that's the best.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 29 May, 2013, 04:49:24 pm
Was sunny this morning on the way into Reading although marginal for shorts and arm-warmers.  Glad I packed a waterproof in the pannier, looks like a wet return home.

Longing for a warm dry commute.   :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 29 May, 2013, 05:24:58 pm
Needed to cross two lanes of traffic to get to a right turn filter lane. Guy in a Jag (no kidding) must have noticed me repeatedly looking over my shoulder as I approached the point at which I would want to start moving across and held back to give me a clear run.  I waved my thanks and got a huge  :thumbsup: as he passed.  Put me in a good mood for the rest of the ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 29 May, 2013, 09:23:55 pm
Crikey that was a wet ride home. Loads of fine bluemetal dumped on the road, like a tipper truck had left its tailgate open.

The Croix was wonderful in the conditions.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 29 May, 2013, 11:27:43 pm
I managed 1h37 moving time for riding home this evening. It's just over 40km by the new route I'm experimenting with.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 30 May, 2013, 09:35:51 pm
Had an hour of intense circuit training after work tonight, followed by the standard 12 mile post-work ride to Bromley. The main difference tonight was being accompanied by a colleague who'd been doing the circuit training with me - she needed to get back to Beckenham but being new to cycling wasn't sure of the route so I said I'd show her the way. It was fairly slow going, and she struggled up Fountain Drive but it was a pretty respectable effort in the circumstances. And frankly I wouldn't have been an awful lot faster without her. Flipping knackered now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 30 May, 2013, 11:16:06 pm
left work late, with just enough time to catch the 20:19 train only to be stopped by a driver on the estate who was looking for the road to Slough  :o. She really wanted to be on the A329(M) that runs past the business park. Trying to explain this to her meant I missed the train and so rather than wait 30 minutes for the next one I started riding home. Got on the next train as it caught me at Bracknell and then collected a curry for dinner.

simply working too many hours but at least I got half a commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 31 May, 2013, 09:13:19 am
Nice but dull crossing Westminster Bridge this morning.  I do love it when Big Ben strikes 8 as I go across.

That big yellow thing in the sky might come out later  :o

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 31 May, 2013, 09:45:42 am
... I did not get rained on :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 31 May, 2013, 10:27:43 am
Big yellow thing in full attendance :D

Shorts and uncovered arms for the first time this year :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 31 May, 2013, 01:11:38 pm
Half day off (was doing midnight taxi driver duty last night, picking up Mscharly from airport)
So rode in midday in full sun. Factor 50 for me!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 31 May, 2013, 01:13:48 pm
If it stays like this I may try to leave work a bit early and take the scenic (OK, less ugly) route home  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 31 May, 2013, 06:14:33 pm
Lovely ride in, but 40 miles of pishing rain on the way home  :-\

A bit Audax-like.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 June, 2013, 08:59:45 am
On the commute today?  Me. :D

First time in a month, and there was a big gap before that short spell.  It's not been a great year for cycling so far.*

Unfit and overweight though I am, I posted a decent time without having to push too hard, though I did get a transient stitch in Balham, right out of the blue.

Lots of cyclists of varying ability on the road, which was good to see.

Oh - and the last time I commuted there was a chance of frost.  This was my first shorts & short sleeves commute this year.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 03 June, 2013, 09:38:14 am
Hurrah for clarion!  :thumbsup:

First full summer gear commute for me.  It went a bit quicker than expected as my legs are sore, but it was all rather pleasant. :)

I think I shall be taking the full scenic route home tonight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 03 June, 2013, 09:46:08 am
I had shorts but knee warmers on this morning.  It has to get pretty warm for me to get my knees out in the morning.  Having them instead of standard 3/4 length tights means I don't have a lovely elastic mark mid calf when I change into a pencil skirt and blouse for work.  I wear a lightweight brown/gold tweed suit jacket at the moment in the mornings - just looks right on the Brompton.

Might get my knees and arms out later though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 03 June, 2013, 10:30:12 am
First commute since getting back from my holiday in France. The sun was shining, the traffic was well behaved.

Nice day to be riding a bicycle.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Bledlow on 03 June, 2013, 12:03:17 pm
Quote from: Kim on 02 March, 2013, 02:13:08 pm
Cool.

(It always amazes me that people can identify money without reading the numbers.)
That's why it's different sizes & colours - except in the USA, where the US Treasury thinks people with visual difficulties can get stuffed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 03 June, 2013, 01:10:08 pm
Quote from: Bledlow on 03 June, 2013, 12:03:17 pm
Quote from: Kim on 02 March, 2013, 02:13:08 pm
Cool.

(It always amazes me that people can identify money without reading the numbers.)
That's why it's different sizes & colours - except in the USA, where the US Treasury thinks people with visual difficulties can get stuffed.

Well yeah, but the British colours are all slightly different shades of grey that don't stand out without a reference (as opposed to proper colours like Monopoly money), and size doesn't mean anything when it's folded in a wallet.  I just read the numbers, always have.  Hence surprise at people (who aren't blind) doing anything else.

It does at least mean I can cope with US money without problems.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Datameister on 03 June, 2013, 01:38:44 pm
Quote from: Kim on 03 June, 2013, 01:10:08 pm
size doesn't mean anything when it's folded in a wallet

 ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tom_e on 03 June, 2013, 10:03:26 pm
Got felled by a ford. Tried to swerve through the shallowest bit too late and lost the front wheel. I skidded along on my side for a second but seem to be unhurt and clothing undamaged, suggesting the surface was pretty slippery.

Handlebars swivelled 360 and yanked the cables a bit (flat bars and compact frame). Rear indexing seems a touch out but I haven't yet figured if that is cable or bent hanger. Meh.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 June, 2013, 10:06:30 pm
Not nice.  Glad you're OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 03 June, 2013, 10:16:57 pm
The sun came out and I challenged myself to how far I could get up the Cold Fell road before I ran out of gears on the Raleigh (I've just switched to a 12-25 on the back). Surprisingly I didn't run out and got over the fell, so flush with my success I also rode the climb out fo Ennerdale Bridge and returned via the C2C rail path.

I'm sure I'm solar powered, it all seems so much easier when the suns out :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 04 June, 2013, 08:50:51 am
Today was the first day where my confidence in the weather staying dry coincided with the ability to take Raffa, the Wilier Izoard XP on a commute. I did get him with the assistance of Cycle To Work so thought I had better.

He is now tucked away in the corner of the office. I have seen how bikes sometimes get treated in the drying room here >:( Not risking that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 June, 2013, 09:03:12 am
Another pleasant morning, but riddled with moronic motorists.

I am pleased to report that cyclists outnumbered cars from about Stockwell inwards.  A really impressive sight.

And I got a flier for a new bike shop & cafe in Kennington, at Newington Butts.  There was a chap at the lights yesterday and today advertising it.  I must make a point of dropping in.  It's called Cycle PS.

This is the website address on the leaflet, but it doesn't seem to be up and running yet:

www.cycle-ps.co.uk
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: madcow on 04 June, 2013, 09:11:57 am
Quote from: mcshroom on 03 June, 2013, 10:16:57 pm
The sun came out and I challenged myself to how far I could get up the Cold Fell road before I ran out of gears on the Raleigh (I've just switched to a 12-25 on the back). Surprisingly I didn't run out and got over the fell, so flush with my success I also rode the climb out fo Ennerdale Bridge and returned via the C2C rail path.

I'm sure I'm solar powered, it all seems so much easier when the suns out :)

That sort of commute makes us all highly envious. I cycled that road this time last year (opposite direction though) when staying at Gosforth . Marvellous views in all directions.
 Desist from posting these routes. Next 3 hours will be spent driving a tin can down the A1/A14 .
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hulver on 04 June, 2013, 09:45:46 am
I have a shameful confession to make.

Today was my first bike commute to work this year.

7 minutes it took me, yes I live that close to work. I usually drive it. Yes, I'm one of those people.

No more.

Prompted to action by a kick up the arse from my fantastic wife last night, I got all my gear ready this morning, fettled the commuting bike back into shape and rode in.

Feels great. Why have I left this so long?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 June, 2013, 09:46:39 am
Fab.  Your wife is fantastic, isn't she? :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hulver on 04 June, 2013, 10:38:31 am
Quote from: clarion on 04 June, 2013, 09:46:39 am
Fab.  Your wife is fantastic, isn't she? :thumbsup:
Absolutely ;D  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 04 June, 2013, 01:59:31 pm
Not strictly on the commute, but during my lunchtime errand run.  Cycling along a one way street, pavement and "on pavement" cycle path to the left of me.  I tend not to use the cycle path.  I round a corner and spy a cyclist riding towards me, on the road, against the arrows.  Not a sensible move. I prepare to tell her she's doing it wrong, but she gets in first:

"There's a cycle path over there you know" in a manner that suggests perhaps I should be using it.

Odd. Very odd.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 04 June, 2013, 02:27:45 pm
I went the long way round to drop some UHF radios off for reprogramming. After standing outside a house for a while I realised it was the wrong address, found the right place (imagine a garden shed absolutely packed full of radio gear) and handed them over. Nice chap.

Then made my way in via the green circular cycle path (nice, wide, traffic free and direct with no get off and push at junctions bits) onto the Perth Road. So about 4 miles instead of the usual 1.5 on a nice sunny day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 04 June, 2013, 05:32:05 pm
This morning, on my way to a meeting that 2 out of 3 attendees had arrived at by bike....
(https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/383400_10151593069596839_2055237127_n.jpg)

This afternoon
(https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/971671_10151593498131839_759223148_n.jpg)

That goes some way to compensating for a really rather challenging day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 04 June, 2013, 05:56:57 pm
Strangely, fewer other bikes than normal.  Far fewer on the road, and fewer at work than during deepest winter.
How odd.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 05 June, 2013, 08:50:25 am
Is it half term round your way, Basil?

Anyway back on topic.

I commuted by bike today, about 10 miles, tail wind all the way and I loved it.  A bit of country road, then COR, over a lock and onto a half decent cycle path.  Over the Col Du Milton and into the Science Park.  Took 40 mins.  Happy, I am.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 05 June, 2013, 08:51:31 am
Meh, lost my cool and ended up in shouting match.

Coming down a hill, I am in leftmost lane, want to be in rightmost lane of three. Look behind, move to right side of my lane (I'm already 'taking the lane'). Look behind, car in middle lane is indicating left. I indicate right and move over. Car hits their horn. I get in rightmost lane, car comes alongside and starts shouting. We are doing 25-28mph in traffic . . .

Seems he wanted to overtake me then pull left and thought my moving right was obstructing him and dangerous.

What an arsehole. Spoiled a nice ride in that did.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 05 June, 2013, 09:12:30 am
Got an apology this morning from the passenger of a dozy bitch of a driver, for the utter twatishness her driver was displaying. Descending from Winter Hill and was confronted by a Nissan 4X4 on my side of the road, taking the short, direct route to the turnoff she wanted. The problem was the turnoff was on the outside of and just after the exit to a bend she was negotiating. She was a good 10 yards from the apex of the bend and taking up all the road. She didn't even glance at me as I executed a rapid stop. Raffa's brakes work a treat.

The ride before and after her twatishness was sublime.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 June, 2013, 09:28:01 am
Last night was an interesting ride.  Upper Tooting Road was in full-on slapstick mode, with more comedy hazards than you could possibly imagine.  Loads of standing motor traffic getting in the way.  I do wonder why on earth they bother.  The line between driving to work and fly-tipping is getting narrower all the time.

I pushed myself a little bit, and managed a decently fast ride despite the festival of red lights which would put the Reeperbahn to shame.

This morning, I was headache-y, and tired (as a consequence of last night's ride? I dunno), and it was hard getting out on the road.  I felt really slow, but the numbers say it was a decent ride.  Didn't enjoy it so much, partly because of the masses of stationary metal blocking the roads (again!).  But lots of cyclists about, so OK overall.  Still managed to get the motivation to do a short loop to round up to 22km rather than just up to 20, which I had been considering.

Given the choice, I'd have stayed at home, cuddling the bairn, as I was before I went out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 05 June, 2013, 09:35:37 am
Quote from: clarion on 05 June, 2013, 09:28:01 am
  The line between driving to work and fly-tipping is getting narrower all the time.

 ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 05 June, 2013, 09:54:59 am
Well my recent commutes were obviously too uneventful.

Rapid deflation coming down the hill to low mill bridge this morning (thankfully rear), something has taken a nice chunk out of my almost new rear krylion. Then met an artic blocking the entire road at the top of the steep bank (had to ride off onto the muddy farm entrance at the top to let him round the corner), got overtaken as I was in the middle of the road (signalling) and turning right by an idiot in a white BMW, and got reversed out on half way down the next fast hill by an old man in a silver suzuki that proceded to then block me all the way down the rest of the hill at 15mph and finish by stopping dead before turning right into a side road, oh and met a transit van head on on the next narrow bit and ended up climbing into the hedgerow. All in the space of 9km.

Still the weather was nice. ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Vince on 05 June, 2013, 10:27:21 am
I had my summer legs on today :)

Tried a new route to work. Along a tree bordered road which actually runs under NL's equivelent of spaghetti junction (interchange between the A12 and A4). Had a nob of a driver who came to a halt with half of his car across the stop line where the road crossed the cyclepath in Nootdorp. Then down the cycle path parallel to the A4 waving at the stationary drivers. After this bit, I actually had to ride on a road for about 3 km! Some dicking about was required in Delft where the diversion around some road works was not properly signposted, but soon back on the route and the shiney tarmac of the path to Schipluiden. Then down the canal to Vlaardingen. Went around Vlaardingen to the west for a change to see if the path was any better quality. 36 km 90% on dedicated cyclepaths.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 05 June, 2013, 11:36:24 am
Quote from: clarion on 05 June, 2013, 09:28:01 am
The line between driving to work and fly-tipping is getting narrower all the time.
If Oscar Wilde was a YACFer, this is what he would say!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: phantasmagoriana on 05 June, 2013, 01:39:15 pm
Quote from: phantasmagoriana on 20 May, 2013, 06:53:13 pm
On the way home, I passed someone who was using studded tyres! Perhaps they use them year-round, just in case - probably sensible.

...and again this morning. Can't see the appeal of using studded tyres year-round, really. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 06 June, 2013, 09:44:35 am
Phanta, maybe they use them as an early warning system to other cyclists?  Either that or they just CBA to change them!

Last night's commute was marred by a couple of ignorant people.  One was in Milton Country Park, I am riding along towards him, he looks around, sees me and does not move dispite the path being wide enough for all of us to use (him and his kids are spread across the path).  I slow right down and wait to see if he moves (he only had to move a few inches to his right), but no he couldn't do that.  The universal order was restored a few seconds later, though when I spied a small child, on her own in the path.  I slowed almost to a stop and the father ran to her and picked her up.  I smiled, said thank you, and so did he.  A bit further on I was on the tow path to Waterbeach and I hear a "ting ting" behind me.  There is nowhere for me to go, so I acknowledge the other guy's presence but keep going.  A few hundred yards later I spy a ped coming towards us, so I slow, shouting "steady", and what happens? The idiot behind me barges past!

Peace was restored to my mind as I carried on, though.  I saw lots of wildlife and basked in the evening sun.  I arrived back at the digs tired but happy.

This morning's commute was more of the same, but without the idiots.  Didn't take any scalps, but I got scalped myself by a old guy on a BSO, heel pedalling!  I shall hand my membership card in as I leave, shall I?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 06 June, 2013, 10:15:51 am
The weather is really bringing out the summer-cyclists.

I had to queue at lights last night!  One a hilariously new rider, obviously fit, couldn't bear being overtaken. All the gear except proper shoes, every time I passed him he'd stand up and huff and puff away until he overtook; then his speed would drop down to much much slower than mine again.

Then 3 people on the A64 cycle path this morning! Even someone on a road bike riding as far as Tadcaster.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 06 June, 2013, 10:23:08 am
LOTS of summer cyclists in London. One caused a near pile up in Lewisham by stopping dead, without any warning, in a narrow cycle lane with stacked up traffic to the right. I guess he was completely unaware of the seven or eight of us behind him... but only for a couple of seconds  ::-).  Seemed like more RLJ-ers about too. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 06 June, 2013, 10:45:10 am
Yesterday,  0 - 1
Today, 3 - 0  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 June, 2013, 12:08:28 pm
I had a decent ride home last night.  Because I'd been to the bank in Borough, I was coming through earlier than normal, and I decided to take the back route to Clapham Common then across to Wandsworth Common and down to Tooting Broadway, where I picked up my normal route.

Nice not to have so many motor vehicles to contend with, but obviously slower.

I noticed that the bank at Amen Corner (the sign saying 'BANK' at first floor level is still there) has become a bookies.  A wry smile.

This morning, I had to go to the hopsital first, so was later coming in.  No seething masses of cyclists like the early mornings, which indicates that utility cycling hasn't got quite the traction of commuting in south london, but there was still at least one other cyclist in sight all the way from Mitcham, which is pretty much how commuting was abuot three or four years ago.

Riding CS7 after 1000 is a bit like making your way through a car park, as there are so many trucks and cars descend.  Some of the gaps get a bit unpleasant to negotiate, and Oval without a critical mass of cyclists is still not nice.

But it was a decent ride, and, with the extra bit I managed almost exactly an hour of riding time.

I am off out to a meeting (on my bike) in about five minutes...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 06 June, 2013, 12:19:41 pm
Last night.

What was the deal with Parliament Square?

I did see a couple of people dressed as badgers by the gates of the HoP.

The square was completely gridlocked in all directions and the approaches were backed up for a good half mile; Birdcage Walk was backed up nearly to Buckingham Palace.  Thankfully it is wide enough to make slow and careful progress on the left, watching for any impatient people not looking before opening car doors that side.  Which didn't happen, thankfully.

The chaos of cars coming in at Horseguards Parade, also snarled up by the look of it, where the road goes to two lanes into Parliament Square, was so bad I got off and walked around Parliament Square, then got back on at the start of Westminster Bridge.

This morning there was a group of people dressed in white sheets, or in some sort of white sleeping bag thingy, dancing around and then laying down on the grass in the middle of the square.  There weren't any placards up, so not sure what that was about.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 06 June, 2013, 07:38:05 pm
A strange occurrence on the ride into work.  A taxi saw me coming up the outside of a line of cars and moved over to the left to let me pass!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 07 June, 2013, 08:59:50 am
Quote from: SteveC on 06 June, 2013, 07:38:05 pm
A strange occurrence on the ride into work.  A taxi saw me coming up the outside of a line of cars and moved over to the left to let me pass!  :thumbsup:

Is this on film? If it ain't on film it didn't happen.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 07 June, 2013, 09:18:28 am
As I was hauling up a hill I watched in horror as a leaf fluttered down from a tree.  :o

That's a bit disapointing. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 June, 2013, 09:54:23 am
Gah.

I had hoped the overnight rain might reduce the smog, but it doesn't seem to have done.  London sits under a distinctly unbecoming yellow haze.

But, a few complete eejits aside, it was a pleasant enough ride in.  Just too much metal on the roads.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 07 June, 2013, 01:34:01 pm
Damn! Damn! Damn!

I was in a bad mood this morning and decided to be late for work. So I set off late with a lazy pace but my legs didn't listen to my head. I arrived only 24 seconds late.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 07 June, 2013, 03:19:21 pm
Blimey. My first full house in about a year.

I was looking for a gentle pootle in to work but had the misfortune to hit the lights in Kingston at just the right time to go sizzling past a stationary roadie.

"Hey !  Hatler !!" he cried out.

Oh god. A colleague. Lovely bloke, but I give him about 10 years and he's faster than me, and I can't pass on the chance of a free draft, even if it's about 3 or 4 mph faster than I normally manage.

He does the Kingston to Hampton Court leg, then I hit the roundabout at HC perfectly and find myself at the front. I couldn't back off now. Cue a four mile run to Sunbury Cross at his pace, but on the front. Bloody hell. I was a quivering sweaty pulp by the time I got to work.

Definitely, definitely, a gentle pootle on the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 08 June, 2013, 09:42:09 am
*Thinks* Another reason to be grateful for my solitary rural commute.  Not having to deal with the TdC. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LindaG on 08 June, 2013, 10:12:00 am
We watched the sky get light through the windows at 0300 and by 0430 it was a beautiful day. So I went home via Dixon's Bank, Brass Castle Lane, Newby Seamer and Hilton. It was really nice. Surprising how much traffic was on the road at 0815 but the minor roads were lovely and quiet.

Shower, tea, bed now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 08 June, 2013, 11:25:36 am
Quote from: Basil on 07 June, 2013, 09:18:28 am
As I was hauling up a hill I watched in horror as a leaf fluttered down from a tree.  :o

That's a bit disapointing. :(

Why?

Did it stop you in your tracks? :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 10 June, 2013, 10:19:55 am
I found a wallet under a bridge on the A64. Stripped of cash and bank cards, it just has driving licences (UK and Welsh) and some expired Man U season membership cards.

Tried looking up name and address from the driving licence; nope, no joy.  I guess they've moved on or that is where they lodge.

Hand it in to the police station I guess.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 10 June, 2013, 07:12:35 pm
Schadenfreude.   Minor roadworks in Lechlade cause looooonnnggg tailback up the A361 towards Burford.  Unless you're a cyclist.  Tee hee.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 11 June, 2013, 08:06:10 am
A new PB for the commute today. 35 mins DtD.

I am on the Inbred, which might have something to do with it (it is much better across the couple of miles of rough stuff than the Dave Yates, and I am more comfortable on it).  It might also be something to do with a tail wind!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 11 June, 2013, 08:48:39 am
Double snakebite. Bah.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 11 June, 2013, 09:35:49 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 11 June, 2013, 08:48:39 am
Double snakebite. Bah.

Bit early for the pub, isn't it?  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 11 June, 2013, 11:19:59 am
First commute for nearly two weeks (lurgy).

First ride on fixed since 20th April (injury).

First 'forgets to pedal' moment for about 2 years (see above).

Rode all the way in, quickest yet (1h35 moving for 42km despite a few wrong turns).

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 11 June, 2013, 01:04:12 pm
Today I caught the train because I had a laptop computer in my bag. I do not like riding sixteen miles in case I shake it to bits.  I only bought a single ticket because I was expecting to ride home.  As I was waiting for the office to open I inspected my back tyre. It seems I will be buying another single ticket.  The tyre has worn out, delaminated and I am riding on the breaker strip.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 11 June, 2013, 06:24:31 pm
Quote from: fuzzy on 07 June, 2013, 08:59:50 am
Quote from: SteveC on 06 June, 2013, 07:38:05 pm
A strange occurrence on the ride into work.  A taxi saw me coming up the outside of a line of cars and moved over to the left to let me pass!  :thumbsup:

Is this on film? If it ain't on film it didn't happen.
;D
No, no film. Out here in the sticks there's very little to look at.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 11 June, 2013, 09:47:14 pm
41.01km on the way home (no wrong turns) and 1h34 moving - despite the headwind.

My sinuses are a lot emptier than they were. I suspect the A370 is a bit slippery now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 11 June, 2013, 11:51:28 pm
PB yesterday.

(Note: no one was hurt or even came out of the following series of events badly. Except for me. And I'm fine.)

Louis (6) had been ill all weekend and hadn't been well enough for school yesterday (very unusual for him - he loves school).

Symptoms: temperature, sore throat, some vomiting (well, once on Saturday). Pinkness all round and general aches. Went to bed crying on Sunday night.

Scene: I go to work yesterday leaving Suzy with a poorly boy (he's up and talking, but quite under the weather).

At work someone (there's always someone, right?) casually wonders if it might be scarlet fever.

SCARLET FEVER? Isn't (or wasn't) that just below plague back when they had proper diseases?

Fast forward: I worked later than intended and rang home to see if anything was needed (calpol/sweets/honey). No reply - on mobile or landline. At least twice on each.

Conclusion: clearly, there had been an emergency dash to A&E without time to call me.

Response: PB home (though home is - I recognise - the place of least use in this imagined scenario, but I didn't know where else to go. Hoping for at least a scribbled note).

Result: Love, fear and (significantly) a favourable tail wind took something like 25% (honestly, I'm being conservative) off my best time ever for this ride.

Outcome: everyone - especially Louis - fine when I got home. They hadn't heard the calls because of playing outside or watching tv or just being too happy to care about phones. Several hours later my heart rate returned to normal.

Lesson: Things will usually be fine. But if you want to go really fast, imagine the worst.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 12 June, 2013, 08:59:43 am
White landy Discovery on The Greenway at 0740 this morning. The dustcart was blocking your side of the road so what di you do?

You WAITED!!!! :o

Yes! You waited for the cyclist to come past before even thinking about passing the dustcart :thumbsup:

BIG THANKYOU :thumbsup: :-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 12 June, 2013, 11:26:58 am
This morning was 40 mins DtD, even with a blustery head wind.

Going back last night was slower (~50 mins), but I tend to pootle on an evening to watch the wildlife (I counted 15 swans plus other assorted wildlife!).  the head wind I had last night didn't help, either.  I did realise that, for the ride back to the digs, I only hit tarmac for a total of about 0.5 miles out of 8.8!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 12 June, 2013, 12:08:10 pm
The commute today was from the bed to the living room as I is poorly. It may be a short day and I'll head back to bed with some paracetamol soup.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 12 June, 2013, 01:00:56 pm
As I left the newsagent I was passed by the project engineering manager, cue the 500m trip to the office being undertaken at a flat out spring ~27mph whilst spinning somewhere north of 130rpm on the fixed  :thumbsup:

Had the driver of the taxi behind grinning when we all arrived at the office.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 13 June, 2013, 10:40:35 am
Let's hear it for the amazing new Bethnal Green Road cycle lane:

http://www.standard.co.uk/news/london/tower-hamlets-councils-expensive-mistake-of-cycle-lane-littered-with-obstacles-8656648.html
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 13 June, 2013, 10:58:40 am
Under 1h29 moving for the 41.56km, a new PB. There was a tail wind, and no wrong turns today.

From setting off to stopping outside the bike shed was 1h33 which is faster than I could manage with bike + train.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 13 June, 2013, 12:20:41 pm
I have a slightly new route.

Previously I've gone Tadcaster rd, A64 cycle path, A64 dual carriageway, etc to city.

Now I'm trying Tadcaster rd, A64 cycle path, divert via Tadcaster, back on A64 etc to city.

Going via Tadcaster adds 0.5mile, 4 traffic lights, some minor undulations and loses the 'drag' effect of passing cars. 

It adds 2minutes to journey time, which doesn't make sense!

Anyway, the road surface is nicer, less debris and it is much quieter. Plus I get a little bit of 'hill training' rather than being on the absolute flat all the way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 13 June, 2013, 09:07:00 pm
So this morning I had a twinge in my lower back when I got off the bike, then I played 5-a-side; once I had warmed up my back wasn’t sore, but of course once I’d cooled down I was shuffling around. I also picked up a groin strain. Back at work, I was shuffling around like an old man between desk and kitchen.

So, time to ride home comes, and the epic tail wind is now an epic cross/head wind. The groin injury made it a bit painful to swing my leg over the saddle, but I was relieved to discover little discomfort when riding, just a bit of an ache from the groin and no back pain. On the A370 I came up behind a guy who was struggling more than I, so he took a tow, then came to the front when he’d recovered - nice bit of assistance for both of us. I got home in under 1h40, before this week that’d have been a PB. And straight back into Quasimodo mode, though my back is not as bad as earlier.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 17 June, 2013, 03:21:33 pm
Did the whole way again. Slightly slower than last week's two efforts due to it being a headwind and a little tired after being awake for over 24h with the National 400. Also a bit more traffic due to setting off about 40-45 minutes earlier. Some of it slightly cretinous but also some very considerate drivers.

I put new Shimano brake levers and brakes, and cables on the bike yesterday, after having got sick of the Tektro levers fitted by the shop (it's a > £2000 bike and they fit cheap rubbish, I found them requiring a lot of hand strength and virtually unusable on the tops). They work a treat. :thumbsup:

Next week, I am going to have a go on a motorcycle, with a view to doing CBT and getting a full licence, so I can reduce the time spent commuting without resorting to using the car too much.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 17 June, 2013, 05:12:34 pm
Intentionally rode without my helmet today. Also been getting a bike ready for my hols so this was a shake-out ride on it. It doesnt have a mirror on it and it was a bad idea to combine the 2 things.  Some f&cking city link bus did its usual of passing very close and fast: if I'd had my mirror I'd have been ready for a citylink pass. (has included pulling over and letting the roar past.)   The close pass took a bit of the pleasure no helmet away.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 17 June, 2013, 09:33:51 pm
On the return I did 1:26:02 for a new PB, and 11 PRs on Strava.

Bike creaking like mad. My theory is I need to tighten the chainring bolts.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 18 June, 2013, 07:37:22 am
Quote from: simonp on 17 June, 2013, 03:21:33 pm
Next week, I am going to have a go on a motorcycle, with a view to doing CBT and getting a full licence, so I can reduce the time spent commuting without resorting to using the car too much.

That'll make those strava PBs a heck of a lot easier!  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 18 June, 2013, 12:10:22 pm
Quote from: simonp on 17 June, 2013, 03:21:33 pm
Next week, I am going to have a go on a motorcycle, with a view to doing CBT and getting a full licence, so I can reduce the time spent commuting without resorting to using the car too much.

Even if you don't end up commuting on a motorbike it's worth doing CBT/full-license anyway for several reasons:
* More training on being on the road (regardless of the vehicle) - never a bad thing
* You'll gain awareness of what it's like being on a motorbike and coming across bicycles/cars/etc - it may change how you ride a bike or drive with motorbikes about
* Insurance will be cheaper if you've held your license for longer - even if you haven't owned/ridden a motorbike in this time (insurance companies are, quite rightly, wary of people who just pass their test and jump on a big bike)

(Car license at 17, full motorbike license at 20)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 18 June, 2013, 06:03:29 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 18 June, 2013, 12:10:22 pm
Quote from: simonp on 17 June, 2013, 03:21:33 pm
Next week, I am going to have a go on a motorcycle, with a view to doing CBT and getting a full licence, so I can reduce the time spent commuting without resorting to using the car too much.

Even if you don't end up commuting on a motorbike it's worth doing CBT/full-license anyway for several reasons:
* More training on being on the road (regardless of the vehicle) - never a bad thing
* You'll gain awareness of what it's like being on a motorbike and coming across bicycles/cars/etc - it may change how you ride a bike or drive with motorbikes about
* Insurance will be cheaper if you've held your license for longer - even if you haven't owned/ridden a motorbike in this time (insurance companies are, quite rightly, wary of people who just pass their test and jump on a big bike)

(Car license at 17, full motorbike license at 20)

All good points.

I wouldn't want too big a bike from a fuel economy point of view anyway. Bloke here has a big Triumph and he reckons on 35mpg (not sure how he rides or where) whereas a mid-sized bike (by which I mean ~500 or 600cc) should be doing a lot better than that. 35mpg is no better than currently getting in Feline's car. But to commute in reasonable time in the car requires going via the M5 (which is 35 miles) whereas going through Bristol is 25 miles but prone to traffic delays. On a bike, the shorter route would probably not work out slower so ~50mpg works out as 1 gallon for the round trip vs 35mpg in the car using 2. So even if saving little or no time on a bike, it's saving £6 per day that I commute by motorbike instead of car. Having access to the HoV and bus lanes in Bristol is likely to mean some time saving as well. Particularly in the summer with heavy tourist traffic on the M5 making that option slow.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 18 June, 2013, 06:14:48 pm
Not all mid-sized motorbikes will have much better economy. My old CX500, which admittedly was ancient even when I had it (early-mid 90s) averaged about 40mpg.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 18 June, 2013, 08:29:48 pm
First commuting puncture for a year or so.  Found the cause, whipped in the spare tube and went on my way.  Then 10 minutes later felt the tyre going a little soft again.  Stopped to pump it up again but when I took the valve cap off, it started hissing and the valve popped out.  Still with about 5 miles to go I started walking, wondering about my best strategy.  Then a young cyclist came by - a rarity on that stretch - stopped to ask what the problem was, and gave me his spare tube. Felt almost as 'warm' as if I'd given someone else my spare.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 18 June, 2013, 09:37:50 pm
Quote from: Nuncio on 18 June, 2013, 08:29:48 pm
First commuting puncture for a year or so.  Found the cause, whipped in the spare tube and went on my way.  Then 10 minutes later felt the tyre going a little soft again.  Stopped to pump it up again but when I took the valve cap off, it started hissing and the valve popped out.  Still with about 5 miles to go I started walking, wondering about my best strategy.  Then a young cyclist came by - a rarity on that stretch - stopped to ask what the problem was, and gave me his spare tube. Felt almost as 'warm' as if I'd given someone else my spare.

I think that there is just one spare innertube in this whole country that has been passed from cyclist to cyclist throughout the land.
Where cyclists have punctured and needed the spare innertube of a passing cyclist. And so, Nuncio, it is your time to hold that sacred innertube and one day, the time will come for you to pass on an innertube to another cyclist in need, like a cross between Trigger's broom and the YACF baton.

If only that innertube could tell it's tale...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 18 June, 2013, 09:39:49 pm
Quote from: teethgrinder on 18 June, 2013, 09:37:50 pm
Quote from: Nuncio on 18 June, 2013, 08:29:48 pm
First commuting puncture for a year or so.  Found the cause, whipped in the spare tube and went on my way.  Then 10 minutes later felt the tyre going a little soft again.  Stopped to pump it up again but when I took the valve cap off, it started hissing and the valve popped out.  Still with about 5 miles to go I started walking, wondering about my best strategy.  Then a young cyclist came by - a rarity on that stretch - stopped to ask what the problem was, and gave me his spare tube. Felt almost as 'warm' as if I'd given someone else my spare.

I think that there is just one spare innertube in this whole country that has been passed from cyclist to cyclist throughout the land.
Where cyclists have punctured and needed the spare innertube of a passing cyclist. And so, Nuncio, it is your time to hold that sacred innertube and one day, the time will come for you to pass on an innertube to another cyclist in need, like a cross between Trigger's broom and the YACF baton.

If only that innertube could tell it's tale...

Do you think it's made it to JOG faster than the baton is doing then?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Vince on 18 June, 2013, 11:45:34 pm
Quote from: teethgrinder on 18 June, 2013, 09:37:50 pm

I think that there is just one spare innertube in this whole country that has been passed from cyclist to cyclist throughout the land.
Where cyclists have punctured and needed the spare innertube of a passing cyclist. And so, Nuncio, it is your time to hold that sacred innertube and one day, the time will come for you to pass on an innertube to another cyclist in need, like a cross between Trigger's broom and the YACF baton.

If only that innertube could tell it's tale...

If that's the one I lent to a lad from Swindon in 1980, it must be a bit knackered by now - it had about 3 patches on it back then!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 19 June, 2013, 11:19:52 am
Scooter rider immediately in front of me sideswiped by a car that didn't bother to stop. Happily it was at fairly low speed so she wasn't hurt but it's a bit sad that I was the only person to stop to help.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 19 June, 2013, 11:32:36 am
Gorgeous morning, the birds singing, not a breath of wind and considerate drivers.

I am asleep still, and dreaming, aren't I?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 19 June, 2013, 08:42:42 pm
Everyone who drives a Nissan Navara is a total bell end.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 19 June, 2013, 09:36:36 pm
I had to visit our Whitehaven office for the first time for a while today. I didn't like going there too much because they had a horrible bike stand right next to the smokers and with wheelbender type things that attacked mudguards and were almost impossible to lock to. But I was pleasantly surprised when I got there - they've put a new bike shed with proper Sheffield stands :thumbsup:

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oSpZ64qhEJY/UcIVkniVjwI/AAAAAAAABk4/cFVTLx1Tduw/w737-h553-no/2013-06-19+16.26.04.jpg)

Views not bad either :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 19 June, 2013, 10:01:44 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 18 June, 2013, 09:39:49 pm
Do you think it's made it to JOG faster than the baton is doing then?


I think it's just trying to get back to it's original owner, who could very well be long since dead by now...


Quote from: Wunja on 18 June, 2013, 11:45:34 pm

If that's the one I lent to a lad from Swindon in 1980, it must be a bit knackered by now - it had about 3 patches on it back then!

That's where the Trigger's Broom bit comes in. It's just the extra spare innertube that sensible cyclists always carry. Sometimes that innertube gets replaced because it has suffered too many punctures, so there are times when it's been a tapestry of repair pathches and other times it has been a virgin tube, fresh from it's cardboard womb of packaging. It has been every brand of innertube ever made, but it's still just that spare innertube in the saddlebag carried by someone who once needed a spare by a passing cyclist.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wascally Weasel on 20 June, 2013, 12:23:19 pm
Quote from: tiermat on 19 June, 2013, 11:32:36 am
Gorgeous morning, the birds singing, not a breath of wind and considerate drivers.

I am asleep still, and dreaming, aren't I?

"If you find yourself alone, riding in green fields with the sun on your face, do not
be troubled; for you are in Elysium, and you're already dead!"

 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 20 June, 2013, 12:57:06 pm
Quote from: British Transport Police Officer
Thats thinking ahead
As I fought my way through the inebriated masses four deep on Ascot station last night. I had just pointed out this was not my stop but that I was never going to be able to get off at the next station if I didn't get off here.

Did they make space to allow passengers off the train?

Like hell they did.  >:( >:( >:( which reminds me I probably need to re-oil my chain as most of the grease will be on the dress / leg of one offending passenger  :demon: she ducked her shoulder under my handlebars as I stood the bike on its back wheel to get through the crowds and got clobbered by the saddlebag instead.

Tonight I have an office social so hopefully they will have all gone home by the time my train goes through.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: caerau on 20 June, 2013, 01:06:58 pm
Don't know what they were doing to the roads north of Cardiff yesterday, presumably resurfacing of some strange description but I encountered a hellish number of tiny loose stone chips when riding through from Radyr to Talbot Green last night.  Bloody things got all through the drive mechanism causing all sorts of nasty grinding noises and were flying into my arms, legs and face.  I soon passed some sort of truck depositing this stuff onto the road surface.  It got better once I'd passed it but I was very lucky to get home as the worst occurrence was that one got stuck between my front brake caliper and the tyre and cut a nice dangerous looking groove out of the tyre rubber before I was able to free it.  Damn lucky it didn't shred the tyre completely and leave me stranded  >:(
I shall be avoiding that route home for the next week or two methinks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 20 June, 2013, 01:21:38 pm
Sounds like surface dressing. If that's your first experience of the awful process then so far you have managed to do very well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 20 June, 2013, 01:40:31 pm
Yesterday I was starting off from some traffic lights when I had the emperor's new chain fitted. Wonderful, superlight, very clean. Very light pedal action. The technology works on downhills but the engineers need to improve it for the levels and uphills.  Fortunately I was next to Pencoed station.

This morning I decided I was not going to use the chainless bike.  So I blew the cobwebs off red bike.  It seems I have not done an audax for several years. Red bike may have been out for an odd ride but it has been ignored for a long time despite its loveliness.  Needless to say the tyres needed air.  So I pump the front up, it turns satisfactorily firm.  I pump the rear up it stays flat. I can hear air escaping near the valve. Valve problem I decided.  Chuck old tube in bin.  Insert new tube pump it up, stop pumping, close the valve, put on the cap. Put the pump back in the shed. Bang. Oh I think, I pinch the tube, it still seems hard perhaps something fell over in the shed.  I load the bike up with bags and ride around the corner. The tyre is soft.   I remove the bags, remove the wheel, remove the tube.  Add a new tube carefully taking care to ensure I am not pinching the tube. Add the air seems ok. Add the bags, add this rider continue for about 20 metres the tyre is flat again. Ok I need to get to work so I push/hold the bike down to the station.  I was a little too late for the half hour train so I started the next leg an hour later if I had planned to catch the train.  At Bridgend station I exit to the waiting room. This is a nice dry area with seats, perfect for a puncture fixing attempt.  So this time I turn the tyre inside out, looking and feeling for any so far overlooked problem, the tyre appears fine.  I check the wheel and rim tape. I find a small nick in the hook of the rim.  That surely can not be the problem its the tyre intervenes between the rim and the tube.  I take my time carefully fitting another tube. Seems good I leave Bridgend station I roll down Court road and on  to Nolton Street, flat again.  I seem to be out of tubes. I push the bike to work. I stop at the bike shop to acquire another tube for red bike and cassette for green bike ready for a new chain.  I arrive an hour and a half late.     
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: caerau on 20 June, 2013, 02:24:02 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 20 June, 2013, 01:21:38 pm
Sounds like surface dressing. If that's your first experience of the awful process then so far you have managed to do very well.

Well I've only been cycling about a year.  Sounds like you've got what they've been doing. Next time I shall turn around when I encounter it  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 20 June, 2013, 02:34:07 pm
This is a reasonable explanation of the process.
http://www.conwy.gov.uk/upload/public/attachments/471/Surface_dressing.pdf

Unfortunately as the document demonstrates, the safety of those of us who are not inside cars is not considered when they do surface dressing. Around here they are doing large swates of the back roads, and as these roads are single lane, you tend to end up with a pile of loose stones in the middle even after they have finished. Also watch out for stones on the junctions as they gather accross the entrance to an undressed road and can catch you out turning corners.

[eta]Last week I was up near Longtown with Lindagordinho and Deano and the road had been patched with dressing. Even more fun there were some steep sections with gravel all over them that I ended up walking down because they were so unsafe.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 20 June, 2013, 02:42:37 pm
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 20 June, 2013, 01:40:31 pm
This morning I decided I was not going to use the chainless bike.  So I blew the cobwebs off red bike.  It seems I have not done an audax for several years. Red bike may have been out for an odd ride but it has been ignored for a long time despite its loveliness.  Needless to say the tyres needed air.  So I pump the front up, it turns satisfactorily firm.  I pump the rear up it stays flat...

A shame that Nuncio wasn't around with the baton innertube. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 20 June, 2013, 02:51:55 pm
Quote from: Caerau on 20 June, 2013, 02:24:02 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 20 June, 2013, 01:21:38 pm
Sounds like surface dressing. If that's your first experience of the awful process then so far you have managed to do very well.

Well I've only been cycling about a year.  Sounds like you've got what they've been doing. Next time I shall turn around when I encounter it  :(
There is about 3 miles of it on the A64. Not so bad now, the loose stuff has mostly been pushed down the drains by traffic  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 20 June, 2013, 03:02:18 pm
Yeah, the main hazard of surface dressing is skidding on the loose gravel, typically at junctions, where it accumulates.  Damage caused by sharp stones or hot tar is a minor problem in comparison, as is the risk of tram-lining on the ruts created when the stones inevitably break free of the tar in areas of high wear (usually happens in winter, as it freezes).

If you've got a trike, you can do awesome power-slides round corners on the fresh stuff.  Assuming you're not knackered from dragging at least one of your wheels through a continuous bank of gravel.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: caerau on 20 June, 2013, 03:53:25 pm
I can see this is a popular form of road treatment in the cycling community  ::-)
Fortunately for me it was all on a long straight road with no real corners or nasty descents.  Hopefully that experience will remain as such.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 20 June, 2013, 04:34:14 pm
Some really crap driving on the A370 coming up to Hotwells. I also managed to get 10th place on a climb and 2nd on a flat section on Strava.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tom_e on 20 June, 2013, 06:47:43 pm
Found a dog wandering in the road, cars passing it carefully but not stopping. Got hold of it and rang 'Pippa's owner from the collar tag, with the aid of a motorbiker.

Turned out it was from close by, and the gate it started showing interest in after we'd rung the owner was the right way home. I suspected so but thought I'd look a right wally if I let it go the wrong way when the owner was already coming  :-\ 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 21 June, 2013, 03:44:12 pm
Finally, commuting bike is fixed* (see elsewhere for my verbosely documented incompetence). The nice man in the bike shop did the final deed and put a new bottom bracket in. After weeks of riding a more twitchy folding bike I immediately steered into a bush. Ah. He also fixed the brakes which came as a bit of a surprise the first time I used them. I'm more used to a gradual dissipation of momentum that actual stopping. The front mech actually changes ring now. Previously it used to announce a future change. The change itself would happen eventually, usually when it was no longer required. All the gears work. Such choice. It's like the flying the space shuttle.

The bike is also worryingly clean and shiny. It seems a lot of what I thought was paint was actually dirt.

*OK, I've still not managed the get the proper right pedal to disassociate from the old crank, despite deploying two burly, bear-punching real men. Chunky platform pedals for now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 21 June, 2013, 03:46:28 pm
Other than getting my butt handed to me by one guy on a mtb and another on a fancy felt, I had a couple making out while blocking the entrance to the cycle path and a policeman putting his van on the pavement, which meant I had to go on a busy carriageway to get round him.

Other than that, thank God the legs kept turning
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 21 June, 2013, 07:06:03 pm
Very damp on the ride in this morning, but it cleared up for a cracking ride home.
Very still, which made the big climb a sweat-fest.

One of my better times, and got a max of 82kph on the big descent, which was fun.
The lack of gusty winds makes fast descents much less scary.

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/331067366
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 22 June, 2013, 07:06:26 am
Morning commute: snapped the folding pedal pulling away from the lights - ouch!  :-X

Evening commute: man wearing a very smart suit and construction company tabard track-standing a Boris bike  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 24 June, 2013, 10:09:45 pm
I went over to Battersea Park after work tonight to take part in a 5k race (running). On my way across Chelsea Bridge, I heard a metallic clattering sound as if, perhaps, I'd dropped the Allen key that I'd earlier noticed sticking out through a hole in my Barley but done nothing about... :facepalm:

I looked around briefly but couldn't see it.

However, heading back across the bridge towards Victoria after the race, I slowed down and had a better look. Et voilà! I found it! Yippee! :thumbsup:

Still a bit annoyed about the hole in my Barley though. Don't know how that's happened.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 25 June, 2013, 07:29:40 am
Quote from: citoyen on 24 June, 2013, 10:09:45 pm


Have you ever left any food in it?  I left a pack of CLIF bars in mine, in the shed, and a mouse chewed its way through the pocket and ate half of them.  I know it was a mouse because it was still in there when I next went to use the bag.  Boy, did it run fast on all that caffeine and glucose!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 25 June, 2013, 08:01:58 am
Good answer. Mouse damage is a very plausible possibility. There may not have been food in the bag but there's very likely to have been food residue from past spillages.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 25 June, 2013, 08:13:15 am
Yesterday evening was the first ride for me in just over a fortnight- lovely ride home with no issues at all.

This morning was also a lovely ride marred only by a cock in a Megane (or was it a VW of some description?) pulling a 6" overtake on the exit to a roundabout on the A4.

I fear I may have gesticulated slightly but tried not to let it ruin my enjoyment.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 25 June, 2013, 08:13:51 am
WOW! What a gorgeous morning, fast too, due to no head wind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 25 June, 2013, 08:55:53 am
Gorgeous coming over Westminster Bridge this morning ......
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 25 June, 2013, 09:03:27 am
Overtaken by a racing type going up Southgate Street this morning. He was probably half my age. And had many many more gears, as well as, erm, all the gear. I don't usually see any riders going my way in the morning except Postmen, and they're easy takings, but Tuesday is my lie in, so it was 6:45 and there's more people awake by then.

I shouted after him "it's a recovery ride!" and he looked back over his shoulder, grinning, and yelled "That's what they all say".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 25 June, 2013, 11:37:47 am
My ride in today was cut short by someone reversing into me as I stood still at a junction waiting to move off. He had gone too far over the line and reversed back, over my front wheel.
We had a longish discussion over who was at fault and I eventually had to phone the Police, who then had to gently explain to him how it was his fault (if you can't see behind you, you don't move) and took our details for an exchange.

Front wheel is trashed, mudguard is wrecked, Solidlight is broken (wires have been torn out). I'm really hoping that''s the full extent of it.

I'm hoping it's just a new rim and mudguard, a wheel build and perhaps a repair to the Solidlight.

Local bike shops seem to charge a lot of money for an insurance report! He wants to do it cash in hand, but I have the Police reference number if there are any problems.

He phoned me a while ago to apologise.

Police were brilliant.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 June, 2013, 11:48:18 am
I'm glad it wasn't any worse than that.  Hope you get sorted soon with minimum of fuss (he almost certainly has no idea of how much a wheel costs).

Remember to check your forks, as there may have been some unusual forces exerted on them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 25 June, 2013, 11:56:53 am
Glad to hear the police were helpful.

Get your forks checked. If they are carbon or aluminum just assume they are wrecked.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 25 June, 2013, 01:07:26 pm
Steel forks, alloy frame. Hopefully it will be easy enough to get sorted.

Anyone know what Brixton Cycles are like for insurance claims?

I called De Ver, but they will not deal unless directed by an insurance company. He charges £80 for a report. Fair enough. When I worked for a bike shop we had so many bike insurance claims where as soon as the money was paid out the customer went straight to Halfords, so I can sympathise with that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 25 June, 2013, 03:08:58 pm
Anyone seen the cops handing these out in South London?

http://www.tfl.gov.uk/assets/downloads/roadusers/driver-cyclist-safety-tips-asl-flyer.pdf
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 June, 2013, 03:13:22 pm
No, but I've seen a poster at a bus stop.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 25 June, 2013, 05:15:15 pm
I haven't seen this one, but have seen one about pinch points and letting cyclists 'take the lane', so it looks like there is a series of them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 25 June, 2013, 05:43:28 pm
It's a classic TfL blame shifting public education campaign. Produce lots of leaflets and banner ads to distract attention from its abysmal infrastructure that places cyclists in potential conflict with motor vehicles. Tomorrow we're bound to see its budget cut by at least 10%. Guess what's going to go first?  Clue - it won't be new signalling on the tube or the pointless cable car at North Greenwich.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 26 June, 2013, 12:15:13 am
Quote from: fboab on 25 June, 2013, 09:03:27 am
I shouted after him "it's a recovery ride!" and he looked back over his shoulder, grinning, and yelled "That's what they all say".

I've just realised.  I need a jersey that says in nice bold letters on the back

"It's a recovery ride!"

I'd love that.  C'mon Rog, get on it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Vince on 26 June, 2013, 09:00:43 am
I fell off!

Accellerating out of a corner the steering went very heavy, then it went light... very very light. Queue commedy trying to balance on an out of control bike. Skuffed knees and this

(http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t140/VinceHall/2013-06-26084554_zps9659cf4f.jpg)

Steering tube sheered off at the bottom of the stem.


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 26 June, 2013, 09:21:11 am
Blimey. Two scuffed knees sounds like a lucky escape.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 26 June, 2013, 09:21:20 am
Ouch! glad you're not too badly hurt
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 26 June, 2013, 09:21:45 am
Quote from: Wunja on 26 June, 2013, 09:00:43 am
I fell off!

Accellerating out of a corner the steering went very heavy, then it went light... very very light. Queue commedy trying to balance on an out of control bike. Skuffed knees and this

(http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t140/VinceHall/2013-06-26084554_zps9659cf4f.jpg)

Steering tube sheered off at the bottom of the stem.

Now I'm no expert in these things, but I don't believe they are supposed to look like that!

Glad you are not more seriously hurt.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 26 June, 2013, 09:25:32 am
On Monday I had just climbed Col de Kingston (Coombe Lane) heading East with a chap on a hybrid up ahead of me. He started the swoosh down the other side and passed out of sight round the slight left bend heading down to the A3. When I got round the corner the bike was in a heap and he was picking himself up from the pavement with two mildly scuffed elbows.

He'd been peeped by a twat in a car on the way down the hill so thought he ought to be on the pavement. Cue him not getting it right and the bike disappearing from under him. Car didn't stop (obv) (bastard).

I checked he was OK to ride on (he was) and suggested he might want to take advantage of Merton's subsidised cycle training, and that cars can f*ck off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 26 June, 2013, 09:56:32 am
Quote from: Wunja on 26 June, 2013, 09:00:43 am
Steering tube sheered off at the bottom of the stem.

Blimey! Never heard of that happening. Glad to hear you are ok.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 June, 2013, 10:40:04 am
That's a very unusual failure.  Glad you aren't too badly hurt.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 26 June, 2013, 11:21:34 am
Quote from: Wunja on 26 June, 2013, 09:00:43 am
(http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t140/VinceHall/2013-06-26084554_zps9659cf4f.jpg)

Steering tube sheered off at the bottom of the stem.

When you took the for out of the bottom was there any more thread below the point of failure?
I'm sorry to suggest this, but this looks as though the stem was not inserted properly. The bottom of the stem should be below the threaded section. Was there a minimum insertion line on the stem?
The cut threads provide a stress point in the steerer and having the stem flexing back and forth above the point where the threads meet the unthreaded tube would be a classic way to develop a stress failure.

I'd also heard that roller bearing headset do allow a little more movement of the steerer than conventional caged ball bearing headsets. You can see the damage to the threads below the bearings (looks like aluminium rubbed off the lower part of the top cup of the bearing) which shows that the steerer has been moving relative to the head tube. I believe Dave Yates has expressed opinions on roller bearing headsets in the past. It might be worth placing this image on the thread about frame building.

You were very lucky though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Vince on 26 June, 2013, 11:58:18 am
The minimum insertion line on the stem is below the headset lock nut. I've not dropped the fork out of the frame yet. I have seen other forks where the steerer is threaded for the majority of its length to allow it to be fitted in different sized frames.

The ground alloy on the thread would have happened when I was trying to get home after the steering went heavy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 26 June, 2013, 12:10:36 pm
Hmmm. I'd like to know how it's possible to scuff both knees without scuffing your goolies at the same time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Vince on 26 June, 2013, 12:40:20 pm
Roll and keep bent at the waist
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 26 June, 2013, 12:52:07 pm
Quote from: Wunja on 26 June, 2013, 12:40:20 pm
Roll and keep bent at the waist

There's an alternative technique involving using the rear of a motor vehicle as your braking option ;) https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=60436.0
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 26 June, 2013, 01:21:16 pm
I scuffed my goolies once.

When I was rear ended.

I didn't damage my helmet though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 26 June, 2013, 02:57:37 pm
A car door swung wide right in front of me, fortunately I was ambling in the middle of the road. Who should step out, why if he isn't wearing the epaulettes of one of London's finest.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 26 June, 2013, 03:23:54 pm
A bus driver used the left turn feed lane to try to  overtake me on the inside this morning (we were both going straight on). Of course he didn't come anywhere near passing, so forced me out to the right towards the traffic island, completely blocking the way past, then came to a dead stop in the queue of traffic. Stunning professional driving there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 26 June, 2013, 07:06:43 pm
Quote from: simonp on 17 June, 2013, 03:21:33 pm
Next week, I am going to have a go on a motorcycle, with a view to doing CBT and getting a full licence, so I can reduce the time spent commuting without resorting to using the car too much.

Done. Didn’t drop it. I like the instructor, which is good. I’m going to go for it.  :thumbsup:

What I struggled with most was starting. I’ve done lots of that (and the same amount of stopping  ::-)) and gear changing and U-turns. Now need to see when I can get a CBT done, I’m probably going to go for a full licence then decide what bike to get.


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 27 June, 2013, 08:13:49 am
Weather is good so Raffa the Carbon Beauty is getting some leg stretching.

Thsi mornings ride to work was half a mile further than yesterday mornings. The elapsed time was 11 seconds faster :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 27 June, 2013, 09:08:45 am
Some daft woman tried to kill me. Luckily she only knocked my wheel wonky on the axle and left me with a scrape on my leg. I just love cycling through Tooting.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 June, 2013, 09:17:22 am
Glad you're Ok.  Check the bike carefully for damage.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 27 June, 2013, 09:39:22 am
Quote from: clarion on 27 June, 2013, 09:17:22 am
Glad you're Ok.  Check the bike carefully for damage.

Thanks. The bike is fine. I gave it a once over at the side of the road after and will give it a proper look over when it gets cleaned and lubed on Saturday. Although bike damage would be an excuse to get a new commuter! ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 27 June, 2013, 09:46:42 am
Grey-haired woman in a smallish car completely failed to spot me as I rounded the Hampton Court roundabout this morning. If we had carried on our respective courses I would have been under her front wheels. I could see her eyes throughout the manouevre and she didn't once look my way. I bellowed 'YO' (with a lengthened 'O' sound) at the absolute top of my voice, and at our closest I would estimate my mouth was no more than three or four feet from her driver's window. Not a flicker of head movement.

Blind, daft and deaf.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 27 June, 2013, 09:47:26 am
Tired legs

Tired head

Lovely and warm

Nearly a new PB.

No idiot drivers (though >90% of my commute is away from roads)

I'd call that a win
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 27 June, 2013, 12:17:49 pm
<lights blue touchpaper>

Rediscovered the joy of music and cycling this morning  :thumbsup:

Trying to match cadence to Metallica's Battery really improves the averages  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 27 June, 2013, 12:21:02 pm
Quote from: Si_Co on 27 June, 2013, 12:17:49 pm
<lights blue touchpaper>

Rediscovered the joy of music and cycling this morning  :thumbsup:

Trying to match cadence to Metallica's Battery really improves the averages  ;D

 :thumbsup: Good man! I must create a playlist on my iPod for cycling with.  The Go! Team, Metallica, Soulfly etc, yes, Adele, Smoove and Turrell and Jack Johnson, NO!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 27 June, 2013, 12:33:11 pm
Thats exactly what I've done with the iPod, current commute list is Metallica, Offspring, Green Day and Cyclefly. It makes the commute much less of a grind. Probably need another list for leisure rides, can't maintain 25mph for longer than a commute  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 27 June, 2013, 01:16:35 pm
Quote from: Si_Co on 27 June, 2013, 12:33:11 pm
Thats exactly what I've done with the iPod, current commute list is Metallica, Offspring, Green Day and Cyclefly. It makes the commute much less of a grind. Probably need another list for leisure rides, can't maintain 25mph for longer than a commute  ;D

I've got some great play lists for spinning sessions, but I don't think I'd ever dare venture out on to the roads with earphones.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 27 June, 2013, 02:02:48 pm
Quote from: Si_Co on 27 June, 2013, 12:33:11 pm
Thats exactly what I've done with the iPod, current commute list is Metallica, Offspring, Green Day and Cyclefly. It makes the commute much less of a grind. Probably need another list for leisure rides, can't maintain 25mph for longer than a commute  ;D

This can work very well, but you can come unstuck if you're climbing a hill on 95" fixed with a cadence of about 40 and up comes Judas Priest with Freewheel Burning.

DAHIKT!  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 27 June, 2013, 10:24:52 pm
While waiting at the traffic lights this evening, I caught a snippet of conversation between a middle-aged couple...

Her: "...do you want me to be honest with you? [pause] I have a husband!"

It's a shame they were slightly behind me - I'd love to have been able to see the look on his face.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 28 June, 2013, 12:51:36 am
Quote from: citoyen on 27 June, 2013, 10:24:52 pm
While waiting at the traffic lights this evening, I caught a snippet of conversation between a middle-aged couple...

Her: "...do you want me to be honest with you? [pause] I have a husband!"

To which the best response is of course "That's okay, so do I."
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 28 June, 2013, 09:20:29 am
Two days of commuting on the "best bike". It's been really nice, but the riding position is subtly different and my calves really ache!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 28 June, 2013, 09:38:02 am
In London, one could be forgiven for thinking a pre-requisite for riding a bicycle with only one gear is that the total number of brain cells possessed by the cyclist does not exceed the number of gears.  That, or someone is offering free lobotomies with every tragically hip fixed/ss bicycle they sell.  (present company excluded, of course)

Also, how do pedestrians know when my light is about cahnge?  They must know as they seem to always step out in front of me one second before my light turns green.

*sigh*

Still, better than being on the tube.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 28 June, 2013, 11:13:04 am
A broom head.

A single, smart, leather shoe.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 28 June, 2013, 11:19:54 am
After getting a soaking last night, and it still raining this morning I was (almost) glad to be in the car today.

ETA: 75.8 miles this week, not bad for 3 days of commuting/cycling.

Target for next week is 100 miles.  All I really need to do is to add on an extra 10 miles a night, easily done, and I am there!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 28 June, 2013, 01:48:30 pm
upping the miles.

I've been doing 3 days a week (mon, wed, frid) for a while now, 150miles a week. Bus on the other two days.

If we move, not only will my commute be a couple of miles further, but there isn't a bus passing the end of the street. Two miles to the station. Not far, but it makes taking the bus a bit of a long trip.

So I'm contemplating stepping up to mon, tues, thurs fri riding.
This week is the first 4-day week (although I'm packing 3 into the end of the week rather than splitting it up). So far, so good . . .
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 01 July, 2013, 09:14:01 am
Pfft

Or Psssstt, bugger

Puncture on way home Fri - dunno what it was, but it punched a 1/4" slit right through centre of tyre. I suspect metal debris from cars.
Puncture on way in this morning, just 3miles from home. Spear of glass that would have gone through anything - imagine a glass hawthorn thorn.
Pump broke - loads of resistance, then nothing. Had 60psi in tyre so I limped home, dissembled pump. O-ring twisted off, my fault, should have lubed it last week when it was feeling wrong.
Train to work, that's £15.80 I would have saved by applying a bit of vaseline to the pump o-ring.  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 02 July, 2013, 07:58:39 am
WOW!

That was fast!

For me, anyway.

Max just a shade under 19mph, ave just a shade over 16mph, so a lot of time near, or at, max.

Lovely morning, too, not too hot, not too cold, just right, a Goldilocks morning :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 02 July, 2013, 08:29:50 am
First cycle commute for about 18 months (my last job moved office to central London and the secure bicycle parking then consisted of a Sheffield stand on a back street near Oxford circus).

Anyway, a nice run in, 60km in just over two hours. Only about 45 minutes longer than taking the car on the motorway. :thumbsup: A potential downside is that the one Sheffield stand at work can only hold eight bikes, and mine took the last spot this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 02 July, 2013, 08:03:15 pm
Came off.

Racing round a corner the back wheel slipped on some oil on the road and got away from me. Bit of rash on the knees and hands and a possible busted pedal.

The car waiting at the lights carefully drove around me while I was lying face down on the deck, 3 kids ran over and helped me up.

Off to have another cup of tea.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 02 July, 2013, 09:26:52 pm
Sorry to hear that, Dave.
Er, how's the bike?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 02 July, 2013, 09:36:46 pm
Good show the kids.

Minor silliness today. Having just filtered to a set of lights there was a shout from the car two behind of "who are you swearing at", which I didn't think anything of. At the next set of lights (its a 20 zone and gently downhill so keeping pace isn't hard, even for me) I heard something along the lines of "you want to watch out mate". I think it was aimed at me, but unless the Yodel van driver up the road had finished pulling across the traffic without indicating, jumped out of his van and teleported into a coupe I didn't swear at him! I looked round and gave the "what are you on about shrug" and didn't engage further. Maybe he was expecting a curse having started rolling forward as I pulled in front to fit into the queue when I spotted oncoming traffic.  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 03 July, 2013, 09:02:49 am
Quote from: Basil on 02 July, 2013, 09:26:52 pm
Sorry to hear that, Dave.
Er, how's the bike?

Busted pedal I think, though I couldn't work out if it was my knee that was actually going in a funny direction at the time. Will check it out this morning and get on the inter web and order some replacements, shame as they were quite new.

The kids where pretty awesome though picked me and the bike off the deck and helped me to the pavement. Made sure I was allright and everything.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 03 July, 2013, 09:08:24 am
grr - puncture (3rd in two weeks). Then a strap came off my saddlebag. Legs like lead.

Rapidly losing confidence in puncture-resistance of these tyres.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 July, 2013, 09:23:50 am
Glad you're Ok, Dave.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 03 July, 2013, 10:20:49 am
As I thought, it's a bent pedal axle. Not so bent that it doesn't work, but bent enough that I notice.

Off to look at shiny things now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 03 July, 2013, 12:40:13 pm
Glad your ok.

As I got the bike out of the shed this morning, I thought "that looks wrong", then it dawned on me that the saddle bag was missing  >:(

Ah well that'll teach me for doing tail whips off the raised ironworks on Flixton Road at 25mph. Fun though, but expensive fun, need new tubes, multi tool,  CO2 chuck, cylinders, tyre levers and a new £10 note out the Mrs' purse
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 03 July, 2013, 10:12:36 pm
Monday I had that lovely moment you get when stopped at a zebra crossing and the car behind hasn't been paying attention. Screeeeeech to a stop. Actually they stopped with plenty of room but I didn't know that was going to be the case, took a while for my heart rate to drop again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 03 July, 2013, 10:40:12 pm
Quote from: Ashaman42 on 03 July, 2013, 10:12:36 pm
Monday I had that lovely moment you get when stopped at a zebra crossing and the car behind hasn't been paying attention. Screeeeeech to a stop. Actually they stopped with plenty of room but I didn't know that was going to be the case, took a while for my heart rate to drop again.

What I usually notice in such circumstances is that the pedestrians thank the car driver effusively and ignore me
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 04 July, 2013, 09:21:44 am
Bit slower today.

Left crank sheared off when pulling away from the lights on the New King's Road by Lots Road. Wobbled but managed to stay upright and pulled over. When the lights changed I walked back to pick up the crank.

I feared I'd have lost the crank bolt but no, it's still in there as it is being held in by a bit of the bottom bracket (which was the bit that ultimately failed).

http://www.greenbank.org/misc/IMG_4637.JPG

The cause? RAW POWER!

Had a meeting to get to at 8.30 so I just pedaled in one legged. It was only 7km. Some funny looks at the lights when people see me holding a crank and pedal in my left hand.

May nip down to Evans (it's closest) to see if I can get a new BB (google gives me the right model/size and see if I need anything else to remove the cranks/cups).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 04 July, 2013, 11:28:52 am
New BB (UN55 68x118), BB tool (Ice Toolz version that requires a 1/2" socket driver, would have preferred a Park BBT-32 but needs must), Park CCP-22 crank puller and some copper anti-seize grease.

All from Evans just up the road (The Cut in SE1) with a 10% CTC discount.

Getting a friend to bring a big 1/2" socket driver to football tonight (I'm going there straight from work) so I can fit the new BB whilst in the pub.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: billplumtree on 05 July, 2013, 07:53:49 am
Passed someone on a mountainbike, on the road, being towed by two huskies all harnessed up and everything.  Then another, with a team of four.  It's not every day you see that....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 05 July, 2013, 08:18:39 am
What was it yesterday afternoon? "Drive Like A Twunt Hour"?

It's coming to something when the big showroom-shiney black Range Rover sticks in your mind because it was the only vehicle you saw being driven by someone who could spell "CLUE".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 05 July, 2013, 08:37:51 am
I was running 10 minutes late this morning so set off with a bit of a panic on.

After a couple of hundred yards or so however, I sat up and looked around a bit.

To quote that Oirish fella from the popular Beat Combo named for an early German naval war machine, what a beautiful day.

I decided it was far too pleasant to be panicking and rushing so relaxed, enjoyed the twunt free ride whilst positively viberating (is that the right word for broadcasting vibes?)

Got to my desk at 8:00 a.m. exactly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: billplumtree on 05 July, 2013, 06:27:13 pm
On the way home tonight, in the lanes near Arnside, I was accosted by a mountainbiker who wanted to know why I wasn't wearing a h*lm*t...1   To be fair to him, he was polite and unagressive, but I was still gobstruck that he thought it had anything at all to do with him.  Anyway, I told him my thoughts on the subject1, but I don't think he took any of them in.  "I hit a car and my helmet broke in two, I wouldn't be here if I hadn't been wearing it"1  "So, I wanted to make sure you'd thought it through."

Oh, I've thought it through, ta very much.  Unlike you, apparently.  He's probably on an mtb forum now: "Yeah, this old bloke - fixed wheel, woolly jersey, all that.  Dunno how he's survived for so long..."1


[1]  No correspondence on the efficacy, desirability etc of h*lm*ts will be entered into on this thread.  You know where to go for that sort of thing. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 05 July, 2013, 09:29:33 pm
Shit journey home- couldn't get on the train, fat women with suitcase and sullen women with pushchair looked at me blankly when I asked them to move so I could get onto the train. There was one (of a possible 4) bikes on there, but the conductor told me there was no room and I couldn't get on. This was a fucking lie.
I tweeted @greateranglia calling them tossers. Then I phoned Chris and swore. I'm good at that, and got to use lots of bad words. Then I petulantly threw my bike on the ground and stomped around the station for an hour, wishing I had enough money to buy cake.

I got the next train, travelled between stations without a ticket (hah, that'll teach the bastards) and then discovered my petulant tossing had buggered my mudguard. In BSE I filtered to the ASL and was quickly rewarded with a punishment pass after the lights changed. On the cobbles.

O, and got home to a mountain of dirty dishes, an extra child in the house, and no cream. Or cake.

S'karmic retribution.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mds101 on 05 July, 2013, 10:09:19 pm
So many people riding in today. Must be the sun. Where they it was -5, when it was snowing, when its raining, when the gales are blowing? I don't care, it was so nice to see so many people on the roads in such loverly weather.

Also putting in some quick commutes at minute and its feeling good.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 July, 2013, 09:44:54 am
Loads & loads of cyclists on the commute today.  I  suddenly encountered a large bunch at Tooting Bec, which pushed my slow progress up Upper Tooting Road from my mind.

Warnings to stay out of the cycle lane from Clapham North to Stockwell.  There was sand down, so I think there had been a long slick of diesel.  Hope that gets sorted out quickly.  There were guys working on it.

Only three scary moments this morning - one including a milk float.  So not bad.

I'm slow again :(  But still managed over 20kph average without pushing too hard.  I've just checked: There wasn't a tailwind, which is reassuring.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 08 July, 2013, 10:40:26 am
I think I will modify my evening commute to avoid Westminster Bridge.  It is okay northbound at 0800, as the tourist pedageddon hasn't started.  But if it is anything like Friday evening (and I think it is even warmer today), then the combination of 2 ice cream vans and 3 pedicabs parked in the cycle/bus lane and, more importantly, and less predictably, the 'a good place to get a blue sky shot of Big Ben with me in the foreground is to step into the cycle/bus lane without looking' tourist idiots - I will probably take Lambeth Bridge and do the longer ride up the Lambeth Palace Road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 08 July, 2013, 12:45:12 pm
Ha! Ha!  Some people drove to work today  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 08 July, 2013, 12:53:40 pm
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 08 July, 2013, 12:45:12 pm
Ha! Ha!  Some people drove to work today  :)

Thanks for reminding me :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 08 July, 2013, 12:59:37 pm
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 08 July, 2013, 12:45:12 pm
Ha! Ha!  Some people drove to work today  :)

You can go off people quite quickly can't you?

 :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 08 July, 2013, 01:06:19 pm
Quote from: SJSBrompton on 08 July, 2013, 10:40:26 am
I will probably take Lambeth Bridge and do the longer ride up the Lambeth Palace Road.

That's my summer commuting route for that very reason. I tend to avoid Parliament Sq on the way in too now (Bridge St is just a little too angsty in the morning[1]) preferring Lambeth Bridge, Lambeth Palace Road, Westminster Bridge Road (towards Westminster Bridge) and then ducking off down York Road along the "Local buses and cycles only" section.

1. Worse for the 3 days I'm going through it at 8.40am. Not so bad the one day I go through it at 7.40am.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 08 July, 2013, 01:20:06 pm
Quote from: tiermat on 08 July, 2013, 12:53:40 pm
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 08 July, 2013, 12:45:12 pm
Ha! Ha!  Some people drove to work today  :)

Thanks for reminding me :(

A sprained ankle and a 26 mile each way commute don't mix. But thanks for the sympathy, CTF.  :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 08 July, 2013, 02:03:36 pm
Quote from: Greenbank on 08 July, 2013, 01:06:19 pm
Quote from: SJSBrompton on 08 July, 2013, 10:40:26 am
I will probably take Lambeth Bridge and do the longer ride up the Lambeth Palace Road.

That's my summer commuting route for that very reason. I tend to avoid Parliament Sq on the way in too now (Bridge St is just a little too angsty in the morning[1]) preferring Lambeth Bridge, Lambeth Palace Road, Westminster Bridge Road (towards Westminster Bridge) and then ducking off down York Road along the "Local buses and cycles only" section.

1. Worse for the 3 days I'm going through it at 8.40am. Not so bad the one day I go through it at 7.40am.

Good idea.  I usually take that section coming from Parliament Square, as the bit through Belvedere Road is also complete ped hell as it is restricted to motor traffic, thus people don't actually look. It is pretty hairy in the morning these days as well.

I can't work out how to get to the St Thomas's hospital junction from Waterloo station and then go up Lambeth Palace Road in the morning though.  I have seen a cyclist going the wrong way up the bus/cycle section on the pavement by the hotel but I don't want to resort to being naughty.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 08 July, 2013, 02:18:58 pm
Ah - it involves going further down and round the Park Plaza hotel.  Have to change lanes one over to the right to take the 'straight ahead' lane round the corner that is signed to St Thomas' and Vauxhall.  Which I guess is no worse than the Parliament Square gyratory as I have to change lanes there to go down Birdcage Walk.  I do like that bit of the journey though, as I get to see the guards in Wellington Barracks on morning parade.





Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 08 July, 2013, 03:10:49 pm
I don't enjoy cycling around that new roundabout round the Park Plaza hotel.

Your other choices are:
a) Turn right onto Chicheley St, left onto Belvedere Road and avoid the peds, then squeeze out between the plant pots and left onto Westminster Bridge Road for the right hand lanes.
b) Cross York Road at the lights just before the roundabout (not easy if they're not already red), across Forum Magnum Square, left onto Belvedere Road and avoid fewer peds and the same left hand turn at the end.

I start my journey home on Upper Ground so I just stick on there, Belvedere Road and left at the end onto Westminster Bridge Road at that toucan crossing. Easy to get road position for the right hand lanes that go past the hospital onto Lambeth Palace Road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 08 July, 2013, 04:24:55 pm
I already do a) right onto Chicheley Street and left onto Belvedere Road anyway, so would probably take that route and it should be easy enough to position for the right turn onto the Lambeth Palace Road.

Any idea why the plant pot at the Chicheley Road end, one of them has the chain now put over it, and most of the time first thing in the morning, pedestrians are often walking through the only remaing gap - with the bike (faintly) painted on it, despite the pavement alongside (to be fair, in the morning there are usually bin trucks and other deliveries going on as well).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 July, 2013, 04:36:49 pm
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 08 July, 2013, 12:45:12 pm
Ha! Ha!  Some people drove to work today  :)

What on earth did they do that for? :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 08 July, 2013, 05:16:45 pm
Power cut in the centre of York, so the traffic lights at Foss Bank weren't working ... hilarity ensues. Or rather, you'd think it would - in actual fact the traffic was flowing about as freely as I've ever seen it, which further reinforces my belief that whoever's responsible for setting the phasing of the traffic lights in York needs to be introduced to a length of Clue-By-FourTM pronto.

Also, the polis have closed the cycle track near the racecourse (as it passes Knavesmire Wood, for those in the know) ... they wouldn't say what was going on but mentioned that they had to 'keep the area sterile' (their words, not mine) ... interesting, and nothing about it on the local news website (yet)

On the plus side, I got to add an extra couple of miles to the journey home.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 July, 2013, 09:10:16 pm
I had to pause at Hackbridge for a couple of minutes before doing the last (slightly up) section of the commute.  But I did it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 08 July, 2013, 09:17:38 pm
Part of my commute involving turning right onto a busy main road. Constant steady traffic means getting a gap in both directions at once is not a thing that occurs. So I use the crossing, wait an ages for the lights to change but then I can roll across and straight into the lane for my direction.

Except today some berk had to yell "You're a pedestrian!" from his car at the lights, well all I could respond with was "So's your face!" which isn't my most witty. And of course I remembered further along that the crossing is actually a bike and pedestrian one anyway :facepalm:

Not sure why he was bothered, he'd have had to stop whether I was walking or cycling  ???

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: closetleftie on 08 July, 2013, 09:53:02 pm
Quote from: clarion on 08 July, 2013, 04:36:49 pm
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 08 July, 2013, 12:45:12 pm
Ha! Ha!  Some people drove to work today  :)

What on earth did they do that for? :o

On call.  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 08 July, 2013, 10:46:18 pm
Some prize pratts on two wheels tonight - lots of RLJ-ers. pavement riders and just general stupidity, including one tosser who thought it was a good idea to undertake me when I held back behind a coach that was indicating a left turn. That's summer, I suppose. On the positive note, there did seem to be more pretty ladies in dresses riding around...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 08 July, 2013, 11:08:23 pm
Similar here.  I pulled up at some red lights where I needed to turn left.  The only vehicle in the left hand lane was a LARGE white van, indicating left.  I pull up behind him. 
A bloke on a road bike pulls up on my right, says "hello" and then sort of wrinkles round me and goes up the left hand side of the van!
I think "Bloody hell, I hope the driver has seen you and performs a decent arc to leave you space as you both turn left."
No.  The lights change and the cyclist is going straight on!
Nothing bad happened.  Due solely to the van driver's good awareness and skills.

You got away with that mate.  You'll get away with it many times to come too, I'm sure.  You'll only not get away with it once.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 July, 2013, 07:19:54 am
Easing back into it, my bike gets a rest today as I remind myself what fun London commuting can be packed into a crappy train.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 09 July, 2013, 08:50:15 am
Quote from: clarion on 08 July, 2013, 04:36:49 pm
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 08 July, 2013, 12:45:12 pm
Ha! Ha!  Some people drove to work today  :)

What on earth did they do that for? :o

180 miles is all I'll say...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 09 July, 2013, 09:04:39 am
3rd day of 80 mile round trip commute. A lovely ride in, enjoying it so much I didn't pay attention and overshot a turn by about a mile (when I realised I didn't recognise anything around me). Then coming through Feltham I was waiting at some lights and recognised one of the suited peds as someone I'd not seen for a few years. So this ex army major type looks bemused and wonders whether to run away when a mad sweaty Lycra man starts shouting to him:)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 09 July, 2013, 09:06:07 am
I had the overtake on left thing last night.  I come round a corner taking the lane behind a bus http://goo.gl/maps/ibixq.  The road is reasonably wide at the pedestrian crossing, but there is a bus stop immediately after, at which point the road narrows.  If I am behind a bus at this stage, I watch its speed and indicators to see if it is going to stop, and if it is, I have held the lane sufficiently to overtake it, and then slot back into the left hand cycle lane immediately after, which then becomes a bus lane in about 200 yards anyway.  If the bus continues without stopping, I tuck in behind it and then drop into the cycle lane.  So far I have had no issues with cars on this corner (crosses fingers) as most are local and know the cycle lane starts just after the bus stop.

I leave plenty of room to my left when overtaking the bus in case they do that 'stick on the indicators and pull out' thing some of them do.  That obviously leaves no room for anything to overtake me on the right, either, but I am going to drop left in a few seconds anyway.  Obviously not soon enough for the full lycra kit Sigma Sport guy, who shoots through the gap between me and the bus at high speed, as I am looking left to pull back in.


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 09 July, 2013, 09:11:53 am
The weather is too good- it has made all of the fairweather numpties on their badly maintained bikes come out and do daft things. Queenstown road pavement cycling to avoid the traffic that then blocks the on pavement cycle path to those obeying the rules sticks out. I also was nearly taken out by a guy on a dahon twice in his hurry to get himself killed. He undertook a crowd of cyclists on the roundabout before Battersea Bridge, some of whom were turning left and after that I just had to catch him up and explain exactly how terrible his cycling was. Roll on winter! ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 09 July, 2013, 09:16:48 am
*another* freaking puncture on the way home last night!

This one I blame on Evans. Took bike in for 'free service'. It seemed ok when I picked it up, but I got a snakebite puncture on the way home so I suspect they hadn't pumped the tyres back up.

If I could ride down the Sleighthome track without snakebites I'm damn sure there is nothing wrong with the pressures I normally have in the tyres.

Getting very very tyred (sic) of this. Averaging 2 punctures a week is ridiculous. Rear tyre now has 2 6mm gashes I've had to boot because the inner bulges without a patch boot on the tyre.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 09 July, 2013, 12:47:58 pm
Flat tyre on the Brommie this morning. I must get round to carrying a spare tube again. Every tube is another £5 that could/should have been spent on beer.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 09 July, 2013, 12:59:17 pm
got shouted at by a scooter last night. Not sure if I was really in the wrong.
I'd passed him whilst he was stationary and indicating left at traffic lights.
I put myself in the cycle box, to his left and about 10 feet in front of him. When the lights changed, I turned left without indicating.

He was slower off the lights than me anyway, so I really am not sure what got him so riled up. I suspect it was the lack of indicating.

If I'd gone straight on, would he have been as cross? Who knows.

Apart from that I played pace line almost all the way home with three other riders. We were flying along. Too bad my speedo's not working, it was probably well in excess of "road legal" speeds most of the way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 09 July, 2013, 01:42:34 pm
Quote from: MattH on 09 July, 2013, 09:04:39 am
3rd day of 80 mile round trip commute. A lovely ride in, enjoying it so much I didn't pay attention and overshot a turn by about a mile (when I realised I didn't recognise anything around me). Then coming through Feltham I was waiting at some lights and recognised one of the suited peds as someone I'd not seen for a few years. So this ex army major type looks bemused and wonders whether to run away when a mad sweaty Lycra man starts shouting to him:)

You saw someone in a suit in Feltham?  Not an England shirt and multiple tattoos? You can tell the suited person doesn't actually live there.

(BTW, I live there so am entitled to take the p*ss).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 09 July, 2013, 02:05:17 pm
Last night:  descending folly lane with a white van coming up the road who decides to turn right into a rough car park.  I move over to the left expecting them to stop but they don't, I managed not to hit the front of the car but in doing so dropped into the car park area & went over the bars. 

Before you ask the shorts & bike are ok  :)

https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=19419.msg1519676#msg1519676
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 09 July, 2013, 02:06:58 pm
Quote from: fungus on 09 July, 2013, 02:05:17 pm
Last night:  descending folly lane with a white van coming up the road who decides to turn right into a rough car park.  I move over to the left expecting them to stop but they don't, I managed not to hit the front of the car but in doing so dropped into the car park area & went over the bars. 

Before you ask the shorts & bike are ok  :)

https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=19419.msg1519676#msg1519676

Eeps glad you're OK! Looks gory  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 July, 2013, 02:09:46 pm
Impressive injuries.  Glad they're not worse.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 09 July, 2013, 03:42:11 pm
Quote from: fungus on 09 July, 2013, 02:05:17 pm
Before you ask the shorts & bike are ok  :)

https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=19419.msg1519676#msg1519676
I take my hat off to you, sir, for preserving and protecting the important things.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 09 July, 2013, 04:19:57 pm
Quote from: SJSBrompton on 09 July, 2013, 01:42:34 pm
Quote from: MattH on 09 July, 2013, 09:04:39 am
3rd day of 80 mile round trip commute. A lovely ride in, enjoying it so much I didn't pay attention and overshot a turn by about a mile (when I realised I didn't recognise anything around me). Then coming through Feltham I was waiting at some lights and recognised one of the suited peds as someone I'd not seen for a few years. So this ex army major type looks bemused and wonders whether to run away when a mad sweaty Lycra man starts shouting to him:)

You saw someone in a suit in Feltham?  Not an England shirt and multiple tattoos? You can tell the suited person doesn't actually live there.

(BTW, I live there so am entitled to take the p*ss).

Someone in Feltham in a suit?!  There's a word for that isn't there? I think it's the Defendant ;D

I don't live there but have driven through and will take the p*ss anyway!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 09 July, 2013, 09:37:29 pm
Someone had pulled an emergency cord at Whitton  :(

Unfortunately when I got to the station this evening there was therefore no trains into London, the 18:59 was cancelled, the 19:19 was expected at 19:29.

So I put my jacket in the saddle bag and took off my tie and rode the 14 miles home.  :thumbsup:

Unfortunately I hadn't changed into my cycling kit before I left the office so I had to ride home in civies.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 09 July, 2013, 09:43:28 pm
We were only held up by about 20 mins in the end, I was on the 1805 Aldershot via Richmond train. The guard said diddly squat but they were saying safety inspection of the track when I finally arrived at Feltham.

Mind you I wasn't best pleased to have to take Victoria street instead of my usual route due to the burst water main on Buckingham Gate. Victoria was mayhem.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 09 July, 2013, 11:10:49 pm
yes, the 18:49 ran fine but I hadn't left the office. The next two were disrupted, and therefore I rode home which was great.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 10 July, 2013, 08:31:18 am
The burst water main on Buckingham Gate is still there and causing (even more than usual) traffic chaos around Victoria.  Thankfully my usual route towards work is clear - in fact in some places the way the closures have worked out, there is less or zero motorised traffic.

It is going to Waterloo away from work that is the bugger due to the one way streets between Palace Street and Buckingham Gate.  Might have to get off and push down Castle Street this evening, as the closure of Buckingham Gate is right at the end of Wilfred Street.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 10 July, 2013, 09:28:11 am
Got to the station at 7:30 for the 7:37. 7:07 has not gone through yet and there is an announcement to say that the line is closed Wokingham to Reading due to a broken down train at Earley. Worse still is that the 6:37 is still in sight of the platform stopped at a red signal just up the line.

Went home, changed to cycling kit and quick bike and rode in. 55 minutes door to door.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 July, 2013, 09:45:59 am
Wanted: Legs, preferably a pair.  Must be able to ride a bike 20km without complaining.

I really didn't feel like it this morning.  And at Clapham Common, I turned off CS7 onto the back route through.  It's slower, but my average only dropped by 0.4kph, so I'm OK with that, for the sake of avoiding the motorised idiots.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 10 July, 2013, 09:53:31 am
Being sick of pinch flats, I pumped tyres up to 110 (rear) and 95 front.

No pinch flats, but my speed over the irregular surfaced-bit dropped from 28kph (my normal speed on this section) to 26kph. Had a tailwind as well.

Bah.

You know what I want? Something like a krylion carbon or rubino pro but 32-35mm wide.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 10 July, 2013, 10:33:40 am
Made a silly decision- cycled in after PT this morning. Not a good idea considering the headwind and my broken body after training.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 July, 2013, 03:20:35 pm
This morning, I avoided most of the motorised traffic, but two spectacularly awful bits of driving spring to mind:

1.  I was riding up North Street at about 25kph.  A silver Vauxhall pulls out to pass me, but there are oncoming cars.  I try to slow out of the way, but he's seen the cars, and is slowing too, as well as pulling over to my side of the road.  Heaven forfend he should risk damaging his car by hitting some metal, when the option of some soft flesh as an energy absorber is available.  The car driver forced his way past anyway, and, when he met the zebra crossing shortly after, was at about 35mph and accelerating, much to the consternation of the person half way across.

I called the driver a rude name.  He may not have heard me.

2.  At the Imperial War Museum junction, a truck drove into the ASL reservoir, despite the presence of about four or five cyclists.  He stopped half way through, but, as the pedestrians' crossing countdown timer edged towards zero, so he edged towards, and over, the next white line.

I let him go, and I'm glad I did, because he veered across the road, and I'd have had little space between him and the parked cars.  When   next saw him, he was completely blocking another ASL.

I'm hoping for better behaviour on my way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 10 July, 2013, 04:39:00 pm
One of those ghastly new Range Rovers was parked in the ASL in Balham this morning. The driver entered it when the lights were already red, she was also on the phone.

By not policing the ASLs the local council missed the chance to award 9 points and about £120 in potential fines on one person.

If they could use them as a cash cow, I'd approve, but not to the current design.
As a driver it can be really tough to work out whether there's an ASL in front of you or not, especially if there is a lot of traffic around. The normal behaviour applies. The red light marks the line, pull up to the red light.
ASLs need to be in front of the light, as box junctions with a small light for the cyclists and a dispensation in the highway code for cyclists to enter box junctions.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 10 July, 2013, 08:46:41 pm
Knocked off bike on way home, 2 in 2 weeks but this time it was at a much faster speed and the bike has some serious damage.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 11 July, 2013, 08:32:35 am
Quote from: SJSBrompton on 08 July, 2013, 02:03:36 pm
I can't work out how to get to the St Thomas's hospital junction from Waterloo station and then go up Lambeth Palace Road in the morning though.

I would come out the back of Waterloo and down the ramp the taxis use. There's a R @ T at the end (with lights) that then gives you a much nicer left turn on to Lambeth Palace Rd.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 11 July, 2013, 08:38:51 am
No bike commute today, but yesterday my route back to the digs took me to over 40 miles for the evening.

Route:
Science Park > Lode (to drop off pannier)
Lode > Waterbeach (to get train into Camb)
Camb > Stretham
Stretham > Ely (to catch a train back to Waterbeach)
Waterbeach > Lode

I realised, after I got back, that it would have been a shorter distance for me, and I would have had a tailwind, if I had just gone Stretham > Lode!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 11 July, 2013, 08:39:52 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 10 July, 2013, 09:53:31 am
You know what I want? Something like a krylion carbon or rubino pro but 32-35mm wide.

Marathon Supremes. I *heart* them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 11 July, 2013, 08:47:19 am
You know how roadies have a reputation for blanking anyone they encounter who isn't wearing top of the range specialist togs and isn't riding the latest feather-weight soot creation from, say, Pinarello or Bianchi?  Well, I had (sort of) the reverse this morning.  There I am trundling into town on my trusty Dribble, chap coming towards me in every-day togs riding his hybrid/BSO.  I utter a cheery, "Good Morning" because it is in fact a good morning and get the dead eye in response with added, "if looks could kill" for good measure.   Quite put me it out it did.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 11 July, 2013, 08:48:38 am
Quote from: menthel on 10 July, 2013, 08:46:41 pm
Knocked off bike on way home, 2 in 2 weeks but this time it was at a much faster speed and the bike has some serious damage.
Leaving jokes about the bike aside are you OK?  Mentally? Physically?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 11 July, 2013, 08:51:29 am
Quote from: menthel on 10 July, 2013, 08:46:41 pm
Knocked off bike on way home, 2 in 2 weeks but this time it was at a much faster speed and the bike has some serious damage.
Are you ok?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 11 July, 2013, 09:28:14 am
Mostly fine. My bum is a bit sore but much less than yesterday and the 10p sized graze on my right upper arm won't really be bothering me. Am tired this morning but that is because it was a bit painful to sleep last night. The bike (thankfully) bore the brunt of the impact and the brakes had already done their job scrubbing off most of the speed I had coming down from the bridge, which wasn't as much as usual anyway!

Just want to get the bike sorted and then get back on with it!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 11 July, 2013, 09:44:22 am
I encountered what I think might be London’s stupidest cyclist this morning. Admittedly, she was actually on one of those electric booster bikes, but in most people’s eyes she would be a cyclist. 

I’d overtaken her on the New Kent Road a couple of times and watched her sail blithely through red lights with barely a look to either side.

Then,  she pulled off a classic.  Picture this: two lanes – one a bus lane, one with a steady stream of vehicles. I am riding in the bus lane, when I notice the cars on the right all slowing down. Look ahead and there is a huge articulated lorry stationary and signalling a left turn.  Clearly he is waiting to make sure that the bus lane is clear before turning.  :thumbsup: So I take primary, slow right down, signal to the driver that I am stopping and signal to other two wheelers behind me to stop, which they all do.  Except from Doris who simply weaves through the stationary bikes and motorbikes and rides across the front of the turning lorry.  :facepalm:  Happily, the driver saw her and stopped again, but what an idiot.   

I continued to see her all the way to Lambeth, ignoring red lights, riding up on the pavement, riding through people crossing the road at pedestrian crossings. She even managed to get herself into completely the wrong lane to go across the Elephant and Castle roundabout, causing right turning vehicles to have to stop and let her across their path.   ::-)

Luckily she had a helmet on, although I’m not sure how much there was inside that was worth protecting.   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 July, 2013, 09:46:56 am
Quote from: Redlight on 11 July, 2013, 09:44:22 am
...She even managed to get herself into completely the wrong lane to go across the Elephant and Castle roundabout...

Most motorists do.

Sounds like a right chump.  And, being electrically powered, she was harder to get away from than most RLJers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 11 July, 2013, 09:56:14 am
Totally not with it this morning - dunno why, but there was no gas in the tank and it felt like riding through 10 miles of hub-deep treacle  :-\

Hopefully the return journey will be a bit better ...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 11 July, 2013, 10:11:18 am
Quote from: interzen on 11 July, 2013, 09:56:14 am
Totally not with it this morning - dunno why, but there was no gas in the tank and it felt like riding through 10 miles of hub-deep treacle  :-\

Hopefully the return journey will be a bit better ...

So that is where the anti motivation waves had got to this morning :thumbsup:

Thanks interzen. I thought that after my slooooooooooooooooooow ride home yesterday evening I was doomed to another meh ride this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 11 July, 2013, 10:12:33 am
Young lady on a bike squeezing down the side of a left indicating dump truck near Borough High St as the light changed. And I mean squeezing, she was shoulder-to-wheel when it pulled away. Fortunately she stopped. I doubt the driver even saw her. She didn't seem too bothered and ambled off towards London Bridge. I'm not even sure where she was supposed to be going, the lorry was right on the junction (and across the ASL) so there was nowhere to place herself on the other side – so she would have emerged in the path of any traffic heading south on Borough High Street.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 11 July, 2013, 10:17:34 am
Quote from: fuzzy on 11 July, 2013, 10:11:18 am
Thanks interzen. I thought that after my slooooooooooooooooooow ride home yesterday evening I was doomed to another meh ride this morning.
I didn't have a slow ride, if anything I was probably a wee bit quicker, but something just felt subtly 'wrong' - I normally get myself into a groove when I'm riding fixed but for some reason it just didn't seem to happen this morning. Maybe it's because nobody tried to kill me on Stockton Lane roundabout ...

I decided to try and cheer myself up with a dark chocolate and chilli brownie from the *$ near work - it was actually rather nice, utterly shit coffee notwithstanding.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 11 July, 2013, 11:11:38 am
First time on bike since hurting my ankle playing football last week.

I got a lift with Feline to Keynsham then rode with her and her friend Mike up to meet the BTOTC Thursday ride, hung around for 10 minutes with them until they set off, then went my own way round the ring road to work. Lovely day for a bike ride.

I was a bit slow - Barley, heavy pannier, messenger bag, fixed gear, and a sore ankle and knee.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 11 July, 2013, 09:09:10 pm
Took the long way home, 32 miles rather than the usual 16/17. went past home and then a bit of COR to hit the lanes the other side of the A22, then to the pub for a pint and bag of crisps before heading back home for my dinner.

Lovely evening to be pootling along especially as it was an easterly rather than westerly wind :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 11 July, 2013, 09:16:46 pm
Rode out to twyford for a work meal, only a couple of miles but nice roads at a good time.
After eating rode through to station for train home again only a short distance but lethargic from eating a good meal. Had to deploy the mark 1 human foghorn when a car started pulling away from the kerb without signalling or apparently looking as I was 5m back from his rear quarter and had a car just behind my right shoulder. It worked well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 11 July, 2013, 09:32:15 pm
Sad to say, again an awful lot of inconsiderate, reckless and sometimes suicidal cycling on the way home tonight. Much as I love warm sunny days, I'm almost tempted to wish for a sudden cold wet snap.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 11 July, 2013, 10:56:58 pm
I noticed a lot of fair weather cyclists also. One rode straight out of a car park in front of me without looking.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jsabine on 11 July, 2013, 10:58:55 pm
Trundling along beside Blackheath this evening, having been following a minicab with one of the worst drivers I've had the misfortune to observe.

He stopped at a roundabout; I slowed. He began to pull away; I kept going at an appropriate speed for him continuing to accelerate. He braked for no apparent reason. Bang. Muppet [1].

Anyway, we both pulled over, he got out, and his first, second, and only question was 'Are you alright?'

I'm sure it helped that it had all been low speed and there was no damage to car, bike or me, but he followed his questions by giving the back of his car the most casual of glances, then got back in and went on his way. Quite restored my faith in human nature.





[1] Me, not him. He may have been a crap driver, but at least he didn't hit anyone while I could see him.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 12 July, 2013, 08:50:33 am
Overtaken just outside York by someone on a decent road bike. They were certainly travelling - I was doing evens at the time and they came past me like I was standing still. Vanished into the distance.

I was therefore a bit surprised when I caught up with them on the way into Leeds. Partly because I'm just not a fast rider and partly because that makes the first person I've ever seen riding that route. Maybe they had a puncture or stopped for a coffee!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 12 July, 2013, 09:35:09 am
Got chatting with a courier on Westminster Bridge. I had my Audax jersey on and he started asking about it, then mentioned that he was doing a ride to Paris in a few weeks in support of the Big Issue Foundation. Turns out he is a former homeless vendor and the BI helped him turn his life around. Now he wants to give something back. I didn't think to ask how to sponsor him personally so if anyone happens to know him, please pass on his details.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 12 July, 2013, 09:42:20 am
http://www.bigissue.org.uk/event/london-paris-bike-ride (http://www.bigissue.org.uk/event/london-paris-bike-ride)
Could try contacting them via this
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: blackpuddinonnabike on 12 July, 2013, 10:54:12 am
Today was National Stop-In-The-Cycle-Lane-And-Drop-Off-Passengers Day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 12 July, 2013, 12:02:52 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 12 July, 2013, 09:42:20 am
http://www.bigissue.org.uk/event/london-paris-bike-ride (http://www.bigissue.org.uk/event/london-paris-bike-ride)
Could try contacting them via this

Thanks.  This was him http://www.bigissue.org.uk/event/london-paris-bike-ride/dean-s-story

Donation duly made  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Marco Stefano on 12 July, 2013, 12:29:32 pm
After a couple of weeks of Hewitt & panniers, I left much stuff at work and went all lightweight with Pompino & Barley (remaining stuff just crams in). Interestingly, no faster, but I was taking it easy.

Enforced new route due to roadworks is largely great; less bleak fen, more river bank and fields, which makes up for it being 24 miles each way rather than 20.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 12 July, 2013, 04:54:33 pm
Posted by someone I follow on twitter:
"@liz545 (https://twitter.com/liz545/status/355654710771982336): My partner was knocked off his bike at 9.20 at Elephant & Castle by a white van that didn't stop. If you saw it, please get in touch!"

Anyone see anything? Sounds like he's OK, luckily.

You'd think it would be caught on CCTV, of course. Hope she has luck getting the police to play ball.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 July, 2013, 04:58:58 pm
There's a fair bit of CCTV around E&C, including private ones which the Police can demand*.  Is there any more info on where exactly this took place?




* Should they be bothered.  Stock response from TCJU is that there is no CCTV in the area.  When you challenge them, they may actually follow it up, but it's often too late.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 12 July, 2013, 10:57:17 pm
I was riding through Pencoed behind a van.  Suddenly the van stops.  I pull my brakes and stop just before I plough into the back of him.  Then to my horror the van starts reversing. The van driver had stopped because an on coming car and he were arriving at a narrow point at the same time.  He decided to give way to the car and didn't realise I was there.  He reversed over my front wheel, I frantically bang on the side of the van and he stops. Needlessly to say my front wheel is very odd shape.

I caught the train home.  The front wheel does not turn. A slightly loaded bike is a very awkward thing to carry. I had enough sense to remove the single pannier and carry it in my left hand but the Dawes Galaxy still twisted unexpectedly making me very tired, I arrived home, drenched in sweat, one and half hours later than I expected.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 13 July, 2013, 10:15:48 am
That sucks CTF, you'd think the least the van driver could have done is give you a lift home. Did he give you his details at least?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 13 July, 2013, 12:25:59 pm
Quote from: Ashaman42 on 13 July, 2013, 10:15:48 am
That sucks CTF, you'd think the least the van driver could have done is give you a lift home. Did he give you his details at least?

Yes he gave me his address straight away.  In fact I know exactly where he lives.  He walked into his house to get a pen.  I explained the cost of the new wheel and we agreed that I send him the bill and he will pay. I do not want to go through insurance companies again. I already have one claim coming to an end now. Hopefully everything will work out. 


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 14 July, 2013, 03:35:56 pm
I deviated on my commute home after the night shift this morning by riding to the Clifton Suspension Bridge to meet up with the CTC medium ride for a social pootle to Brent Knoll via Banwell Castle for coffee. They were going for a little walk to the top of the knoll so I left the ride there and bashed home along the A38.

 It was a nice social 40 miles home  with the exception of a moton performing an emergency stop in a cloud of brake dust and overshooting the give way line several feet into the bit of road I would have been in had I not anticipated her doing a stupid and braked myself because I could tell she was neither looking at me or slowing down. It seemed to really scare her, which is a good thing. It is complex junction at the top of the village where there are multiple prangs so I am always on full spidey alert there. I would have been splatted all over the road if I hadn't taken evasive action. I was impressed with myself for not calling her something through her open window afterwards, all I said was 'give way at the line why don't you' and sighed sadly. That is remarkably restrained for me, the heat must be getting to my brane  ;D

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 14 July, 2013, 03:57:22 pm
Quote from: Feline on 14 July, 2013, 03:35:56 pm
I deviated on my commute home after the night shift this morning by riding to the Clifton Suspension Bridge to meet up with the CTC medium ride for a social pootle to Brent Knoll via Banwell Castle for coffee. They were going for a little walk to the top of the knoll so I left the ride there and bashed home along the A38.
Almost snap! I had intended to join that ride - but I'm still mired in work.  :( With luck I might get out for a midnight ride..
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lordy on 15 July, 2013, 05:52:56 pm
Nice surprise today to see RegT OTP on the commute today and ride in together
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 15 July, 2013, 06:42:48 pm
Took the long(er) way home ... and yea and indeed verily it was awesome - well, mostly.

Caught the tail-end of the school-run in Haxby and had to run the gauntlet of inconsiderate cockmongers in cars on the back road into Shipton but after that it just got better and better:

(https://www.interzen.co.uk/landfill/media/images/1073874_10151475111016636_629404297_o.jpg)
(the 1x1 distorting the spacetime continuum through sheer awesomeness)

(https://www.interzen.co.uk/landfill/media/images/1075589_10151475136326636_692827561_o.jpg)
(down by the Ouse, with some thirsty sheep on the other side - and a thirsty human on this side)

(https://www.interzen.co.uk/landfill/media/images/740698_10151475260241636_428225532_o.jpg)
(a traffic jam, avoidance of which led me to ...)

(https://www.interzen.co.uk/landfill/media/images/1074110_10151475260646636_1493138947_o.jpg)
(green lane awesomeness)

32km in, 50km back ... best ride home ever!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 16 July, 2013, 08:30:52 am
Fast boy passed me again, just outside tadcaster. Again, I caught up with him on outskirts of Leeds and managed a friendly chat.

Seems he doesn't like the A64 single-carriageway bit so takes some back roads - about 3.5miles further. That's how I've been catching up with him!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 16 July, 2013, 09:05:25 am
Broke a couple of the cardinal rules of cycle-commuting in London. I (1) stopped to help someone out and (2) it was a runner.

His rucksack had come open and he was blissfully spilling the contents of his work attire along the pavement along Grosvenor Road as he ran along. It took some beckoning for him to actually stop and remove his headphones, but he was eventually happy that I had stopped him.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 16 July, 2013, 09:42:27 am
Normal route in this morning, mainly because my hamstrings are giving me a bit of grief after yesterday's green lane shenanigans.

Thought I'd discovered the source of the mysterious click last night, so I tightened the chainring bolts up (a couple of them had a good 3/4 turn left) and went to bed happy. No dice - coming across the racecourse this morning and the click started again; purely by chance, I unclipped my right foot1 approaching a junction and lo and behold - no more click. Tried riding for a while with my foot off the drive side pedal and indeed, no more click - GOTCHA!

The downside is that I'll need to stop off somewhere on the way home tonight and pick up some moly grease and tomorrow's job will be to strip down and regrease the 1x1's pedals. Given the amount of off-road riding I've done recently and how dry and dusty it is, this is probably long overdue anyway.

1 - for me this is unusual, as I normally unclip left foot first.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 16 July, 2013, 10:03:55 am
Quote from: interzen on 16 July, 2013, 09:42:27 am
Normal route in this morning, mainly because my hamstrings are giving me a bit of grief after yesterday's green lane shenanigans.

Thought I'd discovered the source of the mysterious click last night, so I tightened the chainring bolts up (a couple of them had a good 3/4 turn left) and went to bed happy. No dice - coming across the racecourse this morning and the click started again; purely by chance, I unclipped my right foot1 approaching a junction and lo and behold - no more click. Tried riding for a while with my foot off the drive side pedal and indeed, no more click - GOTCHA!

The downside is that I'll need to stop off somewhere on the way home tonight and pick up some moly grease and tomorrow's job will be to strip down and regrease the 1x1's pedals. Given the amount of off-road riding I've done recently and how dry and dusty it is, this is probably long overdue anyway.

1 - for me this is unusual, as I normally unclip left foot first.

Afore ye strips the pedal, fettle the cleat/ shoe. Nowt worse than taking something apart to stop a noise and finding it is something related to that item but not the item itself.

BTDTGTTS (ADVD).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 16 July, 2013, 10:13:04 am
Quote from: fuzzy on 16 July, 2013, 10:03:55 am
Quote from: interzen on 16 July, 2013, 09:42:27 am
Normal route in this morning, mainly because my hamstrings are giving me a bit of grief after yesterday's green lane shenanigans.

Thought I'd discovered the source of the mysterious click last night, so I tightened the chainring bolts up (a couple of them had a good 3/4 turn left) and went to bed happy. No dice - coming across the racecourse this morning and the click started again; purely by chance, I unclipped my right foot1 approaching a junction and lo and behold - no more click. Tried riding for a while with my foot off the drive side pedal and indeed, no more click - GOTCHA!

The downside is that I'll need to stop off somewhere on the way home tonight and pick up some moly grease and tomorrow's job will be to strip down and regrease the 1x1's pedals. Given the amount of off-road riding I've done recently and how dry and dusty it is, this is probably long overdue anyway.

1 - for me this is unusual, as I normally unclip left foot first.

Afore ye strips the pedal, fettle the cleat/ shoe. Nowt worse than taking something apart to stop a noise and finding it is something related to that item but not the item itself.

BTDTGTTS (ADVD).
It's not the cleat/pedal interface - I get the annoying click with the older cleats in my 'racing' shoes as well as with the relatively new cleats in my sandals. There the tiniest amount of lateral play in the pedal. I'll probably do a full teardown as a preventative measure anyway - most of the trails I've been riding recently have been extremely dusty, and its the sort of dust that has an uncanny knack of bypassing seals.

Of course, this could just be the universe telling me that I need to buy some ATAC Carbons  :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris N on 16 July, 2013, 10:26:28 am
Nothing out of the ordinary.  Just a lovely lovely ride in the sun on my favourite bike along some great quiet lanes to a job I enjoy.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 16 July, 2013, 11:58:07 am
We've got the tag-a-long sorted on my folder now, so we're having a go at cycling to school and I then ride on to work. Very agreeable it is too (despite the dead-eyed idiot that failed to use a roundabout properly this morning, but having had a close look through her side window I decided she'd probably have done the same to anyone in any vehicle so I didn't take it personally), although stopping sweating by 9:30 is hard to be sure of!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 16 July, 2013, 02:33:06 pm
Took a different route in - legs were dead after the last two days so a bimbly amble along the canal (21kph ave) then up Claverton Hill, which I managed without stopping, and not the last on the strava segments (though not far off). Tunnel exploring on either the way home or heading into Bath to meet up with the family.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 16 July, 2013, 08:25:22 pm
Nearly drove today, tired head, and tired heavy legs. But the car needs petrol and we have a Tesco voucher so would have had to have gone there and queued and bleh.

It was easier to get on the bike...and I'm glad I did, had a wonderful ride in, felt easy and quickish as I bumped into a fellow commuter I haven't seen for a while and we rolled along chatting and it was good.

The ride home was a bit tougher, felt sluggish but timewise wasn't too bad. Think I will carry on riding this week and then maybe a few days off next week in prep for LEL.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 16 July, 2013, 09:44:57 pm
Another 80 mile round trip commute today. A very pleasant ride both ways, only one notable incident with the passenger of a VW Polo.

Coming through Camberley on the A30 heading West, it's a good fast road (slight downhill most of the way, empty bus lane to ride in, it's easy to get the bike up to 30mph even for my steel commuter with saddlebag towards the end of my ride home). I stopped at a red light in the left hand lane, and got a really big smile from a very good looking young lady in the VW that pulled up alongside. The lights changed, I was off and left them behind. They eventually overtook, with another big smile and a wave. Then I ended up behind them at the next lights, she turned round and gave me a thumbs up before they turned off to the left.

Not sure what the bloke who was driving thought, but it made my day  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 16 July, 2013, 09:49:23 pm
Got up at 05.00 today - an hour earlier than I usually do.
For why?
To enjoy a balmy commute with fewer people around than there usually are.
I can see myself doing the same tomorrow.

I can also see myself reaching the gates and thinking '$0d it! I'm quarter of the way to Cambridge, why stop now?'
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 17 July, 2013, 07:49:30 am
Gorgeous ride in this morning.

Didn't dare risk driving in, due to an excess of beer last night, public transport is a joke so bike it was!

Fastest one yet, just a shade over 30 mins for 8.8, which includes ~1mile of COR.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 17 July, 2013, 08:01:26 am
bah - really really tired last night, so of course I got another puncture. Spent a while checking the tyre - finally found a tiny sliver of glass.

Really shouldn't have made it through the tyre; these are supposed to be the 'protected' version.

Farewell fast tyres, hello heavies. <sigh> I was enjoying wizzing along for no effort.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 17 July, 2013, 08:45:07 am
I'm really rather enjoying the fact that Birdcage Walk is closed to motor traffic westbound at Great George Street, to prevent jams up by the really big hole in the road round the corner from Buckingham Palace.  There is no tape across the cones, so a slow down and careful slalom through and you get the whole of Birdcage Walk, which is blissfully shaded by trees for this current lovely weather, to yourself (well, other cyclists obviously).

At the top of Buckingham Gate, a quick hop off across the ped crossing, back onto the road the other side of the really big hole, and the road to yourself all the way to the junction with Bressenden Place (apart from the odd taxi that cut through Palace Street).  Even less than that now, as at the junction with Bressenden Street, the Buckingham Palace Road is closed again for another big hole in the road before Victoria Station.  Off the bike again, over the ped crossing, walk along pavement for 20 feet, back on and through Victoria Square as usual (only that is also coned off to motor traffic to save too many using it as a cut through).

Wish it was like that all the time ..... it was similar during the Olympics as Birdcage Walk was restricted then.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 17 July, 2013, 10:23:29 am
Running late, so took the short route through Stratford / Mile End / Whitechapel to the City.  Lots of cyclists about, all rather pleasant... until approaching Mile End.  Mincab driver in a minivan heading east sees the road relatively empty and thinks it's a good time for a u-turn - right into me.  Thankfully he stopped just in time.  Not sure if he finally noticed me at the last minute or my blood-curdling yell stopped him.  He put up his hand and mouthed 'sorry.  At that point I may have got a bit shouty, pointing out that a small wave of the hand doesn't really make up for nearly running me over.  I also pointed out to his passenger that she might wish to consider finding another driver, one less likely to kill someone.

*sigh*

I'm taking the riverside route home tonight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 July, 2013, 11:14:01 am
I was on the commute today. 

Quote
By the time we got to Stockwell
We were half a million strong

Then can I ride beside you
I have come here to stop the smog
And I felt to be a cog
In something turning

And I dreamed I saw the lorries
Riding shotgun in the sky
And they were turning into butterflies
Above our nation

Well maybe it is just the time of year,
Or maybe it's the time of man.
I don't know who I am,
But you know life is for learning.

We are stardust.
Billion year old carbon.*
We are golden..
Caught in the devil's bargain
And we've got to get ourselves back to the garden.


* or twenty year old steel
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 17 July, 2013, 11:17:31 am
A bit more poetic than what I managed this morning.  OTOH, I think I managed a but more Anglo-Saxon.  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 17 July, 2013, 11:35:33 am
Nearly took some guys arm off last night

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HpY1PFr7JXA
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 17 July, 2013, 12:56:54 pm
It's one of the risks of aggressive filtering.

(Not making any judgement about your filtering, it's up to you, I filter quite aggressively too - even between vehicles but that's only in a couple of places on my commute).

The most common cause is the passenger being a smoker, then it's not just an arm hanging out but sometimes even a lit ciggy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 July, 2013, 01:18:38 pm
My filtering gets less aggressive as the years go by.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: closetleftie on 17 July, 2013, 02:10:45 pm
Quote from: clarion on 17 July, 2013, 01:18:38 pm
My filtering gets less aggressive as the years go by.

Too true. Makes little difference to door-to-door time anyway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hexhome on 17 July, 2013, 02:46:00 pm
Quote from: clarion on 17 July, 2013, 11:14:01 am
I was on the commute today. 

Quote
By the time we got to Stockwell
We were half a million strong

Then can I ride beside you
I have come here to stop the smog
And I felt to be a cog
In something turning

And I dreamed I saw the lorries
Riding shotgun in the sky
And they were turning into butterflies
Above our nation

Well maybe it is just the time of year,
Or maybe it's the time of man.
I don't know who I am,
But you know life is for learning.

We are stardust.
Billion year old carbon.*
We are golden..
Caught in the devil's bargain
And we've got to get ourselves back to the garden.


* or twenty year old steel

Just watch out for that Big Yellow Taxi!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Afasoas on 17 July, 2013, 07:25:22 pm
(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2882/9310178264_f73407850a.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/89280112@N04/9310178264/)
BP08 HHR (http://www.flickr.com/photos/89280112@N04/9310178264/) by afasoas (http://www.flickr.com/people/89280112@N04/), on Flickr

The driver pictured in this black Mercedez sort of scraped by whilst I was negotiating a rough narrow section of road. To call it an overtake would be too generous. The conditions were not safe for overtaking. And I did take some exception to the fact this driver didn't even leave elbow room. In fact, the driver's proximity during passing indicated that he had not seen me at all.

In short, he was an impatient and aggressive c0ck.
Just debating whether I'm arsed to tweet the local plod about it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 July, 2013, 07:34:05 pm
I got overtaken on a blind bend with oncoming traffic.  The driver, a chap a shade older than me with balding head and silver, neatly trimmed beard, barely seemed to notice me or the cyclist in front of me, who I think got an even rougher deal.

The car was a silver Vauxhall Astra with distinctive hi-viz corporate markings on the side and blue lights on top.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 17 July, 2013, 10:48:31 pm
Quote from: clarion on 17 July, 2013, 11:14:01 am
I was on the commute today. 

Quote
By the time we got to Stockwell
We were half a million strong

Then can I ride beside you
I have come here to stop the smog
And I felt to be a cog
In something turning

And I dreamed I saw the lorries
Riding shotgun in the sky
And they were turning into butterflies
Above our nation

Well maybe it is just the time of year,
Or maybe it's the time of man.
I don't know who I am,
But you know life is for learning.

We are stardust.
Billion year old carbon.*
We are golden..
Caught in the devil's bargain
And we've got to get ourselves back to the garden.


* or twenty year old steel

I'm going home.

By helicopter.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 18 July, 2013, 11:22:27 am
White van parked on the main street in Fulford. I took a wide line and thought "knew it!" as the door started to open just before I reached it. Then the driver checked, saw me, stopped and waited. And was rewarded with a cheerful thank you through his open window. Cheered me up to be proved wrong  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 18 July, 2013, 11:46:24 am
Quote from: Greenbank on 17 July, 2013, 12:56:54 pm
It's one of the risks of aggressive filtering.

(Not making any judgement about your filtering, it's up to you, I filter quite aggressively too - even between vehicles but that's only in a couple of places on my commute).

The most common cause is the passenger being a smoker, then it's not just an arm hanging out but sometimes even a lit ciggy.
It's considerate when they fold in their mirrors for you, though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 July, 2013, 11:48:02 am
I suspect:  Captain Rubbish with a headwind on CS7.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 18 July, 2013, 12:28:36 pm
Lost my Barley saddlebag on the way in today when the SQR support jumped out of the clamp on a pothole. Fortunately it didn't have my tablet in cos the car following ran over the lot. My change of clothes for tonight's Northallerton and Environs Ride has just been nicely pressed, but it looks as if everything survived, including my lunchbox and spork.

I must work out how it became detached though. It's the 2nd time that this has happened. The only common denominator I can think of is that, on both occasions, I'd lubricated the chain less than 15 minutes previously  ??? Perhaps the moral is to leave the chain dirty.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: flyingpancake on 18 July, 2013, 03:37:06 pm
I've had that happen to me a couple times before with the SQR and Barley bag.   Each time it's because the sprung latch didn't pop back to secure the SQR bracket.  It just so happened after I thought it was a good idea to lubricate the spring.  Nowadays I try to check that the latch is fully engaged before setting off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 18 July, 2013, 04:19:12 pm
I extended my commute home this morning via a cafe stop and pub lunch at the Hunters Lodge pub in Priddy with a friend to 45 miles (rather than the usual 22). It was 32C in the shade up there on the top of the Mendips, but lovely when you're creating your own head wind/breeze to cool your face  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 18 July, 2013, 06:41:03 pm
On the way home there were some Sustrans ppl stopping cyclists at various points on my route.  I gave the first lot about 40 seconds before interrupting and saying "are you after market research, feedback, or funding?" and when the answer proved to be the latter responded "Sorry, I've got none.  There's a reason her drive train is in that state, y'know!".  So they said feedback would be good.

They are now aware that there is a part of the cycling world within which "Silly Sustrans Gate" is a commonly understood concept.

Their mates up the road got a cheerful ride-by with the comment "Your colleagues up the way just 'got' me.  Nice bike that, tho!".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 18 July, 2013, 06:50:56 pm
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 18 July, 2013, 06:41:03 pm
They are now aware that there is a part of the cycling world within which "Silly Sustrans Gate" is a commonly understood concept.

TBH, I'd be more surprised if there wasn't.  At least in the UK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 18 July, 2013, 06:54:50 pm
They seemed a bit shocked....

But we did agree that the planets path is marvellous, and well worth travelling from Mordor for.  Although they'd never gone to the Blacksmith's  :o Tsk.  Call themselves cyclists.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: phantasmagoriana on 18 July, 2013, 06:58:07 pm
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 18 July, 2013, 06:41:03 pm
On the way home there were some Sustrans ppl stopping cyclists at various points on my route.  I gave the first lot about 40 seconds before interrupting and saying "are you after market research, feedback, or funding?" and when the answer proved to be the latter responded "Sorry, I've got none.  There's a reason her drive train is in that state, y'know!".  So they said feedback would be good.

They are now aware that there is a part of the cycling world within which "Silly Sustrans Gate" is a commonly understood concept.

Their mates up the road got a cheerful ride-by with the comment "Your colleagues up the way just 'got' me.  Nice bike that, tho!".

I saw them on the stray - they were there last week, too. I'm not sure they'd be interested in my opinions of Sustrans paths, so I just rode on by...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 18 July, 2013, 07:01:31 pm
I always assumed that Sustrans people[1] exist in some sort of bubble where their organisation isn't synonymous[2] with silly barriers, getting lost and impassable surfaces.  Otherwise how could they stay sane?


[1] I'm not prejudiced.  Some of my friends are volunteer rangers and they're perfectly nice.   :D
[2] Perhaps unfairly, as it's usually the landowner's fault.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 18 July, 2013, 07:22:59 pm
Consumed a full bottle on the ride home this afternoon and it's only 14 miles.  That's a first.

In other news;  I was outpaced by a bumble bee at as I rode up Netherton hill (it ain't steep) by Home Farm.   For sale, one ego. Only slightly crushed. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 18 July, 2013, 10:53:55 pm
Quote from: Kim on 18 July, 2013, 07:01:31 pm
I always assumed that Sustrans people[1] exist in some sort of bubble where their organisation isn't synonymous[2] with silly barriers, getting lost and impassable surfaces.  Otherwise how could they stay sane?


[1] I'm not prejudiced.  Some of my friends are volunteer rangers and they're perfectly nice.   :D
[2] Perhaps unfairly, as it's usually the landowner's fault.

I'm sure the Sustrans people mean well. As do the people who want all cyclists to wear helmets, always, even when wheeling their bikes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 19 July, 2013, 01:35:22 am
The difference is that I reckon that if you gave Sustrans an arbitrarily large budget, they'd probably manage to do something useful with it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jsabine on 19 July, 2013, 02:52:05 am
For fairly specific values of useful though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 19 July, 2013, 08:05:23 am
The Sustrans chuggers were out by the Greenwich Foot Tunnel the other day. I missed my chance to point out that it's a major cycling through route where access both to the north (through Island Gardens) and the south (the Cutty Sark piazza) is legally No Cycling; that the tunnel itself has No Cycling painted at regular intervals, that they've very recently (i.e., post Sustrans) installed barriers in there marked Cyclists Dismount; and that there is no evidence of Sustrans applying any pressure at all to sort this out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hulver on 19 July, 2013, 09:42:48 am
Quote from: Kim on 18 July, 2013, 07:01:31 pm
I always assumed that Sustrans people[1] exist in some sort of bubble where their organisation isn't synonymous[2] with silly barriers, getting lost and impassable surfaces.  Otherwise how could they stay sane?


[1] I'm not prejudiced.  Some of my friends are volunteer rangers and they're perfectly nice.   :D
[2] Perhaps unfairly, as it's usually the landowner's fault.

There's a sustrans bod on one of the mailing lists that I'm on for a local cycling group. If anybody ever makes the slightest negative comment about any sort of sustrans route he will really go off on one. Starts ranting about how everybody is volunteers and they put their time in for free so don't expect to get this sort of attitude as a reward for their efforts.

I always think that he's getting a bit too defensive about it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 July, 2013, 10:14:47 am
I witnessed a blue-on-blue today at St Georges Circus.

The cycle path from Lambeth Road joins London Road on the approach to the roundabout smack bang in the middle of the bus which is almost always waiting at the lights.  Recognising this, the bus coming up to a red light for entering Waterloo Road stopped short of the path, to let my group of cyclists through, which was kind.  First off the block put the hammer down coming round the front of the bus to catch the green light to progress up Blackfriars Road.

BAM!  Should have taken more care.  Another cyclist was steaming round the outside of the bus to go up Waterloo Rd.  He was approaching a red light, and was in the wrong lane.  The bikes collided, and the second chap went down.

I positioned myself and my bike to protect the guy on the ground, who sat there for a few seconds collecting himself.  He didn't seem badly hurt, and his bike didn't seem damaged.  He (quite rightly) had a go at the other chap for coming out without looking.  Fair call, but he was having a right go, so I mentioned that he had been riding at speed towards a red light.

'Braking for a red light' he replied.

I looked at the distances involved, and thought about his speed and the space involved, especially if the bus had not stopped short of the line, and suggested that was implausible

'You can't judge me!' he shouted, and got back on his bike in time for the light to change to green.

I was waiting for the other light, which was now red.  A woman (who looked rather like Kat Jungnickel, right down to the big shades) next to me said, 'They need to learn that they should stop behind the line'. 

I blushed, because my front wheel was over that line, and I thought the woman was having a go at me, but I quickly realised not.

'They just put their heads down and ride too fast' she said, adding, as she set off something along the lines of 'It's pathetic'.  I agreed, and we rode off.  As she pulled away at speed up Blackfriars Road (I was heading East), I noticed she had a beautiful dark (black?) Colnago with silver decals.  Nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 19 July, 2013, 11:25:22 am
Quote from: TheLurker on 18 July, 2013, 07:22:59 pm
Consumed a full bottle on the ride home this afternoon and it's only 14 miles.  That's a first. THIRST

Estuary English. Pah.

 ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 22 July, 2013, 08:47:52 pm
I've been treating the commute in as a bit of a sprint for the last week or so. It's just under three miles; the first bit through the village tends to be fast to keep up with the cars in the narrow bits; and of course it has been cooler.
So this morning, I get 2/3 of the way in and realise I have no keys. So the journey back home and then back into work again has to be a real sprint or I'll be seriously late.

Oh well, I need the exercise!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 22 July, 2013, 09:14:46 pm
Probably the last commute today before LEL. The just over 80 mile round trip isn't conducive to tapering (yet to do a full week of it, but have got up to doing 3 days in a week).
Anyway, on the way home tonight, after cooking on my way out of London I got rained on for a minute or two between Camberley and Hartley Wintney! I was hoping it'd turn into a proper downpour to cool me down, but it failed  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 22 July, 2013, 09:55:14 pm
Quote from: MattH on 22 July, 2013, 09:14:46 pm
Probably the last commute today before LEL. The just over 80 mile round trip isn't conducive to tapering (yet to do a full week of it, but have got up to doing 3 days in a week).
Anyway, on the way home tonight, after cooking on my way out of London I got rained on for a minute or two between Camberley and Hartley Wintney! I was hoping it'd turn into a proper downpour to cool me down, but it failed  :(

Might be joining you on the London commute along the A30 soon.  Today and Friday are my last commuting days into Reading before my official workplace becomes London once more  :( for life but  ;D for work.  Although another spell in Switzerland may beckon, with trips up the Hochwald to enliven things after a day's work.

Picked up the bike from the bike shop after the crash.  No damage from hitting the tarmac but 2 years of Reading & Uxbridge commuting had left a couple of wafer thin rims and a senile front mech - so am resplendent in new wheels until it rains.  Slightly interesting route navigating out of Basingstoke this morning with Alencon link closed and a different ride back through Tilehurst on the way home, building back confidence by slipstreaming vehicles and reaching R17 on Calshot Hill  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tom_e on 23 July, 2013, 09:26:09 am
Breakfast:  Flash, Boom, Crash, Rumble.  Rain loud enough you need to raise your voice.  Repeat.

Car.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 July, 2013, 09:53:58 am
Heavy rain last night, but not thunderstorm (or thuderstorm, as the Guardian had it in a now rare typo).

I rode up the Wandle Trail, which was damp enough not to be dusty, but not so wet there were puddles.  I chose to ride past Bennets Hole, which is narrow but rewarding (and I only met one walker towards the end of that section anyway).  Nevertheless, I avoided the wetlands at Morden Hall Park just in case.

A lovely ride, and I got to see two foxes playing in the water, but they didn't wait while I got the camera out, sadly :(

At the Missing Link (thanks for cancelling LCN+, BoJo! ::-) ), I rejoined the road and rode to Battersea Park.

A last minute decision led to my not crossing Chelsea Bridge and taking part in the Etape d'Embankmet, but staying in the park to emerge at the Southern corner to go past Battersea Dogs Home and New Covent Garden to get to Vauxhall.

I tried the cycle bypass to get over, but it was utterly useless, with unclear signage, long waits to cross, lack of integration, and repeated conflicts with pedestrians, before we even get into the permanent and temporary obstructions in the path.

Never mind, I got on to Lambeth Bridge, where I turned right and headed straight to work.

A bit of a tailwind on the tarmac sections meant I had a fair average speed despite having held back a lot on the Trail.

25km and not a bad way to get to work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 23 July, 2013, 10:44:38 am
Thunder, lightening & lots of wet stuff from the skies  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 23 July, 2013, 11:16:08 am
Dry run in for me but for some reason a lot more traffic than yesterday. Northern embankment very congested for some reason - lots of lorries, which made filtering down the centre a bit tricky.

Saw a couple of classic left hooks - one in the New Kent Road where a driver sat behind a cyclist until just before the turning, then overtook and started to turn. Then a bigger one at one of the junctions on CS7 with someone attempting to turn left through a group of about 20 riders in the ASL - the inevitable consequence of TfL's abysmal design.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Datameister on 23 July, 2013, 11:53:16 am
Quote from: fungus on 23 July, 2013, 10:44:38 am
Thunder, lightening & lots of wet stuff from the skies  :o

Very, very, frightening thing..... ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 24 July, 2013, 08:39:08 am
Whilst waiting at the station (  :-[ yes I know I should realy ride the 15 miles each way):


Level crossing barriers closed for the '32 to London and stayed down for the '37 to Reading. Unfortunately this meant that the A30 queued back and those who wanted to get the '43 to London decided to jump the queue, pass the wrong side of the central island at the pedestrian crossing and then turn left into the station.

Unfortunately for them the local BiB and GiB were standing round the corner, their normal spot in sitght of approaching vehicles being a hole in the ground where the water board are undertaking repairs. Four cars in 3 minutes whose drivers are now guarranteed to have missed the '43 whist they also recieved a ticket, three points and a fine.  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 24 July, 2013, 09:56:21 am
Mind-buggeringly humid.

Also, I just couldn't catch a bloody break this morning - SQR bag kept grounding out on the rear tyre, meaning I had to raise the seatpost another 10mm or so to stop it (admittedly, clearance was tight to begin with - the sooner my Viscacha turns up the better) and then I managed to pull the rear wheel out of track not once, but twice on the climb up through the University and then again on the way down(!)

This is obviously the Universe's way of saying that I should ride the fixed instead of the singlespeed,  although the only reason I am riding the singlespeed is that one of our junior devs wants to try a bike with a 17.5in frame so, unfeasibly nice person that I am1, I said I'd bring the Green Machine in and he could have a hack round the quad on it to see if it agreed with him.

Currently tempted to leave my stuff at work and ride home 'unladen' and pick my stuff up tomorrow with the aid of a bike with panniers.

1 - no sniggering at the back, please.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tigerrr on 24 July, 2013, 11:05:40 am
I have had 6 months off the bike for various reasons. Just started again this week.
Golly it is sweaty and hard work in this heat, with all the weight and my legs so weak. As a result I am not going very fast at all.
Apart from that what I really notice is that the roads appear to have been taken over by a huge increase on cycling numbers. Something I should celebrate but what i find i notice is the simply awful riding and arrogant rudeness of people on bikes.
Not just the RLJers of whom there have always been loads but the undertakers, shovers, cutters-in, close passers, and general don't-give-a-damn -about-anyone-else-because-I-am-the-man riders.  These people make drivers look nice, and I find myself getting irritated by their antics. 
I assume that these are all 'new' commuters who have formed the view that this is how it is done based on reading media reporting of cyclist bad behaviour.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Otto on 24 July, 2013, 01:05:48 pm
Quote from: Tigerrr on 24 July, 2013, 11:05:40 am
I have had 6 months off the bike for various reasons. Just started again this week.
Golly it is sweaty and hard work in this heat, with all the weight and my legs so weak. As a result I am not going very fast at all.
Apart from that what I really notice is that the roads appear to have been taken over by a huge increase on cycling numbers. Something I should celebrate but what i find i notice is the simply awful riding and arrogant rudeness of people on bikes.
Not just the RLJers of whom there have always been loads but the undertakers, shovers, cutters-in, close passers, and general don't-give-a-damn -about-anyone-else-because-I-am-the-man riders.  These people make drivers look nice, and I find myself getting irritated by their antics. 
I assume that these are all 'new' commuters who have formed the view that this is how it is done based on reading media reporting of cyclist bad behaviour.


I was about to post almost exactly the same thing,. I've been off the road with a nasty incident of bronchitis and then a broken arm... rode in for the first time on monday.... I couldn't belibve the number of idiot people on bicycles... simply mind boggling!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 24 July, 2013, 03:01:23 pm
Welcome to the nodderpocalypse.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 24 July, 2013, 03:17:49 pm
Quote from: Tigerrr on 24 July, 2013, 11:05:40 am
general don't-give-a-damn -about-anyone-else-because-I-am-the-man riders.  These people make drivers look nice

This is a big part of the reason I haven't commuted for months. Aside from the risk to my well-being and the general stress of it all, I just don't want to be seen as part of this set.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tigerrr on 24 July, 2013, 05:27:40 pm
I thought maybe it was just me getting back into it - a sort of perception gap thing. But actually it is offputting - I was unrtaken at speed by an RLJ  last night and it really pissed me off. I might easily have been moving towards the pavement as the numpty blew through - as it was he missed me but I was emboldened to call out that he was an onanist. 
I dread to think what impact these plonkers are having on perception of all cyclists by non-cyclists.  I am sure it hardens the anti cyclist state of mind.
But mostly it undercuts my own enjoyment of cycling - these are not people whose club I want to be in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: dave r on 24 July, 2013, 06:23:34 pm
Quote from: Tigerrr on 24 July, 2013, 05:27:40 pm
I thought maybe it was just me getting back into it - a sort of perception gap thing. But actually it is offputting - I was unrtaken at speed by an RLJ  last night and it really pissed me off. I might easily have been moving towards the pavement as the numpty blew through - as it was he missed me but I was emboldened to call out that he was an onanist. 
I dread to think what impact these plonkers are having on perception of all cyclists by non-cyclists.  I am sure it hardens the anti cyclist state of mind.
But mostly it undercuts my own enjoyment of cycling - these are not people whose club I want to be in.

These people have been about for donkeys years, its just there are more of them about when the weathers nice, come the winter you'll hardly see any of them, its a shame because it makes it harder for those trying to improve things.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 24 July, 2013, 08:04:19 pm
After tonight's commute I have given up on CS3 (City-Westferry) until the weather gets worse.  I'd rather use The Highway.

On the positive side, this is the third day in a row with an average commuting speed of 25kph+.  8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 24 July, 2013, 08:12:00 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 24 July, 2013, 08:04:19 pm
After tonight's commute I have given up on CS3 (City-Westferry) until the weather gets worse.  I'd rather use The Highway.

On the positive side, this is the third day in a row with an average commuting speed of 25kph+.  8)

For why?
Other cyclists?
Lack of gin & tonic vending facilities?
Do tell.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 24 July, 2013, 08:17:39 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 24 July, 2013, 08:12:00 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 24 July, 2013, 08:04:19 pm
After tonight's commute I have given up on CS3 (City-Westferry) until the weather gets worse.  I'd rather use The Highway.

On the positive side, this is the third day in a row with an average commuting speed of 25kph+.  8)

For why?
Other cyclists?
Lack of gin & tonic vending facilities?
Do tell.

 ;D   Truth be told, those can be found going through Wapping (as I sometimes do).

It's down to other people on bicycles.  CS3 is not yet at full capacity for sensible, considerate cyclists.  OTOH, it can handle only a very small number of tw@s, and I think there are 3 times that number at the moment.

I shall be returning to the A13.  Just need to decide if I hit if from the south (need to use a short stretch of CS£) or from the north (going through Aldgate). 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 24 July, 2013, 08:42:42 pm
So on this evening's commute home I emerged from the south lift of the Greenwich foot tunnel, and clipped in to cycle along the bit of NCN 1, 4, 6, 32, 64, 128, 465 and one thousand, where you're not allowed to akshully cycle  ::-) to be confronted by a phalanx of Greenwich yoof on BMX bikes, proceeding apace towards me, on the shared footpath, the largest / eldest / foremost of whom was giving no indication of whether he understood the principle of 'Keep left' or much else.
So I stopped - figuring that in the event of a collision the closing speed would be reduced if I wasn't moving.
Front (eldest / largest) rider performed an interesting sequence of veering between right and left as he approached me, finally opting to pass me to my left with words along the lines of 'FFS, man. No f'in brakes!'
Lah-di-dah!
I was not so lucky with the last of the group (of six or seven).
The youngest, and the runt of the pack.
They were all too tightly packed to be travelling at the speed they were in a heavily pedestrianised area.
They were f***ed from the outset. It was an accident looking for a place to happen.....
He was so close to his buddy in front of him that he had no chance of seeing me, let alone take evasive action.


My shin is (still, as I write) bleeding. I think his pedal must've done that.
Some part of him dislodged the rubber hood from my left shifter.
That appears to be my end of the deal.
He, on the other hand, was last seen clasping knee/shin whilst rolling around on his back in Cutty Sark Gardens in what looked like significant pain, the extent of which was understated for the benefit of his mates.
I asked if he was ok - I asked if he'd broken anything - it didn't elicit a response I'm able to recognise / understand.

Tant pis, mon petit sange - as they say

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 24 July, 2013, 08:58:27 pm
Had a few close calls with kids swapping from pavement to CS3 and back as well.  One almost tumbled, but thankfully no contact.

I have it on good authority red wine is good for replacing lost blood, but being thinner you need to take in a significantly greater quantity than what was lost. ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 24 July, 2013, 09:00:15 pm
How's the bike?  Yours, that is.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 24 July, 2013, 09:07:35 pm
Quote from: clarion on 24 July, 2013, 09:00:15 pm
How's the bike?  Yours, that is.
S'fine, thanks. - I think I took the bulk of the impact...
Don't chicks dig scars?????
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 24 July, 2013, 11:05:10 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 24 July, 2013, 09:07:35 pm
Quote from: clarion on 24 July, 2013, 09:00:15 pm
How's the bike?  Yours, that is.
S'fine, thanks. - I think I took the bulk of the impact...
Don't chicks dig scars?????

Oh bad luck Jurek. Glad you're mostly undamaged  :-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 25 July, 2013, 12:15:08 am
Quote from: Andrij on 24 July, 2013, 08:17:39 pm
  Just need to decide if I hit if from the south (need to use a short stretch of CS£) or from the north (going through Aldgate).

My advice:

Avoid. Aldgate.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 25 July, 2013, 07:38:14 am
Last night's commute was lovely, a few choice words to describe it: windless, sun, dry, swans, cygnets, ducklings.

Comapre and contrast with this mornings: WET, mud, WET, headwind, WET, idiot drivers.

See the difference?

Not a good day, today, to wear all wool on the bike  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 July, 2013, 09:33:52 am
I rode in on fixed today.  I did get bored with CS7 though.  I was pleased to note I had a 24.9kph average when I turned off onto the back streets.

And I'm glad I turned off, too, because at the top of Sail St, I saw a Dulwich Paragon rider who said hello.  It was Darkpoint, who was noodling about like me, extending the commute, so we rode together to Waterloo and along Union St till we had to part company.  A very pleasant surprise.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: darkpoint on 25 July, 2013, 10:26:49 am
Quote from: clarion on 25 July, 2013, 09:33:52 am
And I'm glad I turned off, too, because at the top of Sail St, I saw a Dulwich Paragon rider who said hello.  It was Darkpoint, who was noodling about like me, extending the commute, so we rode together to Waterloo and along Union St till we had to part company.  A very pleasant surprise.

It was excellent to see you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 25 July, 2013, 05:48:52 pm
Met this delightful chap.   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PHQupg9-XKI&feature=share&list=UUatqk5A4gOWU81xBx47AdxA
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 25 July, 2013, 06:40:08 pm
I didn't think they still made them like that!
Reporting through the TfL website has been very effective lately and there is no way that his current attitude would remain uncorrected. I really thought that bus drivers know now that intimidation is a bad move. Mistakes and anger they can possibly get away with so such behaviour tends to be accidentally on purpose rather than as blatant and then 'justified' as in this case. Hopefully he'll find out that he's made a rather large mistake.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 25 July, 2013, 06:50:55 pm
Look how he overtakes the second time, he knew exactly what he was doing. Using a bus to frighten people, the micro-cocked tattooed thug.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 25 July, 2013, 07:04:39 pm
I'm not sure what's worse - the fact that a strategically shaved gorilla can get a job driving a bus or that lame excuse for a cycle lane ...

(ObCommute: I drove in today - I was liberating1 some decommissioned Babbage engines from work)

1 - perfectly legit. Our head of development forgot to ask our IT guy if I could take them, so when aforementioned IT guy came into the office I asked him directly. Result  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 25 July, 2013, 07:07:21 pm
Quote from: interzen on 25 July, 2013, 07:04:39 pm
I'm not sure what's worse - the fact that a strategically shaved gorilla can get a job driving a bus or that lame excuse for a cycle lane ...

I'd be inclined to send a grink to those responsible for both.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 July, 2013, 07:29:39 pm
Classy.

But the bus companies are pretty good at dealing with thugs like that.  Definitely complain.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 25 July, 2013, 07:32:17 pm
Quote from: Kim on 25 July, 2013, 07:07:21 pm
Quote from: interzen on 25 July, 2013, 07:04:39 pm
I'm not sure what's worse - the fact that a strategically shaved gorilla can get a job driving a bus or that lame excuse for a cycle lane ...

I'd be inclined to send a grink to those responsible for both.

I've cyber grinked to TFL and Roadsafe, have to see what happens, if anything.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 July, 2013, 07:34:30 pm
Good stuff.  But isn't Sutton Council responsible for the pathetic lane?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 25 July, 2013, 07:43:04 pm
Quote from: Gandalf on 25 July, 2013, 05:48:52 pm
Met this delightful chap.   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PHQupg9-XKI&feature=share&list=UUatqk5A4gOWU81xBx47AdxA
Outstanding.
(Not)
Nice example of how an overtake should be done, courtesy of the polis, in the last few seconds of that footage.
Mr. Bus Driver?
W.A.C.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 July, 2013, 08:08:38 pm
On my way home, I met up with a Butterfly and a Little Duck.  We took a winding back route home from Mitcham, and it was luvly.

Mind you, I did see, for the first time, a driver, purple with rage, deliberately driving towards a child trailer.  A complete nutter, but his heart attack won't be far away.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 25 July, 2013, 08:11:29 pm
Quote from: benborp on 25 July, 2013, 06:40:08 pm
I didn't think they still made them like that!
Reporting through the TfL website has been very effective lately and there is no way that his current attitude would remain uncorrected. I really thought that bus drivers know now that intimidation is a bad move. Mistakes and anger they can possibly get away with so such behaviour tends to be accidentally on purpose rather than as blatant and then 'justified' as in this case. Hopefully he'll find out that he's made a rather large mistake.

I don't think they make them any other way in the southern badlands. Croydon and Sutton seem to be in competition for the worst cycle lanes.

Any consolation, I think this chap will be having several bad days, and given that second deliberate pass, I think his days of driving route 93 (or any other) are over. A pity that he's allowed to drive any other vehicle given the attitude, but I'd hope both TfL and the bus companies are now aware that there cannot be any tolerance for that kind of thing.

On the plus side, linked to that YouTube clip I found they've filmed loads of bus routes in fast-forward and given them a soundtrack. It's rather hypnotic. Oh my, I've fallen down another internet hole.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 25 July, 2013, 08:21:07 pm
Quote from: Gandalf on 25 July, 2013, 05:48:52 pm
Met this delightful chap.   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PHQupg9-XKI&feature=share&list=UUatqk5A4gOWU81xBx47AdxA

Appalling. Glad you are ok and I hope you've had the time to make a complaint.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 25 July, 2013, 10:06:39 pm
Quote from: clarion on 25 July, 2013, 07:34:30 pm
Good stuff.  But isn't Sutton Council responsible for the pathetic lane?

I think it may be Merton along there, As it's Mordor Morden.  If you complain to the local Authority they usually pass the buck to TFL anyway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 26 July, 2013, 01:40:39 am
Quote from: Gandalf on 25 July, 2013, 05:48:52 pm
Met this delightful chap.   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PHQupg9-XKI&feature=share&list=UUatqk5A4gOWU81xBx47AdxA

Delightful indeed.

I'll look out for him (I live on the route of the 93 and take that bus once or twice a week with MiniGB.)

Ironically, the only time I've had a go at a bus driver, whilst a passenger on a bus, was on the 93. Similar poor overtake of a cyclist which elicited a "That was really shit driving" from me and a grunt of dismissal from the driver (not the same one, I can remember that much).

Auntie C will be along in a mo to tell you exactly where the emergency cut off switches are on most London buses.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: red marley on 26 July, 2013, 08:46:40 am
Quote from: Gandalf on 25 July, 2013, 05:48:52 pm
Met this delightful chap.   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PHQupg9-XKI&feature=share&list=UUatqk5A4gOWU81xBx47AdxA

I've said several times on this forum that I think filming and sharing head cam stuff on a bike is counterproductive. But I have to admit in this case that you've done a good job there. You kept your cool and caught a clear example of a "punishment pass" on a clear road, that could otherwise, without this evidence, be put down to typical cyclists' paranoia.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 July, 2013, 09:34:55 am
After a stupid and pointless overtake by the very first car I encountered this morning, I decided to go for the Wandle Trail again, though this time on fixed.  I've done that before, but I was fitter.  Ah well, never mind.

Even Friday legs would have helped, but I did enjoy the ride.  Bit of a problem about half way along, though.  I got a stick caught in the gear cable (S3X, remember), and then I caught my foot, so the cable was ripped through the retention bolt, which would have stuck me in top gear.  I didn't fancy riding rough surfaces on 90", because I'm not as nails as Teethgrinder, so I stopped and readjusted the disintegrating cable.  It was OK, but as it settled in (I think the flattened, de-stranded part stretched out a bit), the middle gear slipped, so I had another go.  This time, it was just fine.  I had feared that the BB guide, which is only glued on, had come away, but fortunately that was sound.  Anyway, three cyclists passed me while I was fettling.  Only the third, a woman, actually asked if I was OK.  As it happens, I was just putting my spanner away when she asked, so I smiled and let her carry on.

To the top (ish) of the Trail, then through the byergh of Wandsworth to the riverside path then backstreets from the Heliport to Battersea Park.  realising I was short of time, I realised it would be quicker to ride over the Thames and back to avoid the delays at Vauxhall, so I did that, and tried hard to keep up with a very fit woman on an aluminium Trek, who blasted away from the rest of the peloton on Embankment.

At Lambeth Bridge, and with a heavy heart, I turned back towards work, but I did enjoy the trundle past the IWM and SBU under the shade of the trees. 

Ticked over to 25km just after I entered the street where I work.  A real disappointment to have to stop.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 26 July, 2013, 09:41:01 am
On a road bike this morning, for the first time in ages - sweet Jeebus it felt weird.

The reason for this is that I discovered that my lovely new seatpack has a broken buckle, meaning that I had precisely zero luggage carrying options for any of the off-road machines so it was a case of chucking everything in a pannier and grabbing the first road bike that came to hand (the yellow fixed, as it turned out)

Problem-du-jour now seems to be uncontrolled hellspawn on bikes - you can tell its the summer holidays; one dozy little sod that I encountered needs to be told that we ride on the left on cycle paths. This lesson should be reinforced with the aid of a cricket bat, especially as his bloody mother was riding behind him in a smartphone-induced daze  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 26 July, 2013, 09:53:18 am
Quote from: clarion on 26 July, 2013, 09:34:55 am
After a stupid and pointless overtake by the very first car I encountered this morning, I decided to go for the Wandle Trail again, though this time on fixed.  I've done that before, but I was fitter.  Ah well, never mind.

Even Friday legs would have helped, but I did enjoy the ride.  Bit of a problem about half way along, though.  I got a stick caught in the gear cable (S3X, remember), and then I caught my foot, so the cable was ripped through the retention bolt, which would have stuck me in top gear.  I didn't fancy riding rough surfaces on 90", because I'm not as nails as Teethgrinder, so I stopped and readjusted the disintegrating cable.  It was OK, but as it settled in (I think the flattened, de-stranded part stretched out a bit), the middle gear slipped, so I had another go.  This time, it was just fine.  I had feared that the BB guide, which is only glued on, had come away, but fortunately that was sound.  Anyway, three cyclists passed me while I was fettling.  Only the third, a woman, actually asked if I was OK.  As it happens, I was just putting my spanner away when she asked, so I smiled and let her carry on.

To the top (ish) of the Trail, then through the byergh of Wandsworth to the riverside path then backstreets from the Heliport to Battersea Park.  realising I was short of time, I realised it would be quicker to ride over the Thames and back to avoid the delays at Vauxhall, so I did that, and tried hard to keep up with a very fit woman on an aluminium Trek, who blasted away from the rest of the peloton on Embankment.

At Lambeth Bridge, and with a heavy heart, I turned back towards work, but I did enjoy the trundle past the IWM and SBU under the shade of the trees. 

Ticked over to 25km just after I entered the street where I work.  A real disappointment to have to stop.

Do the Wandsworth riverside paths come up on CycleStreets?  I'd like to have a pootle down them one weekend with hubby - maybe riding into town from Putney.  I go by on the train every morning on the way into Waterloo but often see cyclists going past near the industrial bits just before the gyratory.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 July, 2013, 09:58:06 am
It's a lovely ride in from Putney.  And the path has changed a few times, what with building work affecting access, so I couldn't say what the full route is like at the moment.  It's very variable, with mostly shared paved sections, but occasional dumps onto the road (such as at the Heliport), narrow ginnels, barriers, unsigned turns and the like, as well as a bit of awkward manoeuvring at the mouth of the Wandle itself.  But a swish through Battersea Park is always a delight.  Well worth doing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 26 July, 2013, 02:58:34 pm
I set out to explore the Wandle Trail back when I lived in London and 25 miles was a long ride.  It rapidly deteriorated into an epic victorian explorer style adventure complete with dense undergrowth, blood-sucking insects, angry natives, voodoo navigation and indeed saddle sores.  I doubt that Stanley had to contend with anywhere near as many Silly Sustrans Gates and dodgy cycle lanes, but if he had, no doubt he would have attributed them to Ken Livingstone.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 July, 2013, 03:04:47 pm
Most of the barriers have been removed, but it depends on which council area you're in.  The worst was a bridge which spiralled in to the middle, then spiralled out again the other side.  Passable with a tandem, if you can wheel it on its rear wheel.  Simply bonkers otherwise.  The spiral arms (which cost umpteen GBP for an artist to create, along with two other bridges with horrid surfaces when wet, and difficult turns from ramps as well as kerbs up) have been hacked to half their length, so now it's just very awkward with a solo bike.

Mind you, the barrier at the bottom of a drop (both ways) in the middle of a metal surfaced bridge is a doozy.

Surfaces on the Wandle trail vary massively, with no more than about 200m of any type.  There's sand, tarmac, gravel, macadam, brick paviors, mud etc etc. 

And it's very hard to get through the Tooting section without a nettle sting.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 26 July, 2013, 03:10:26 pm
Quote from: clarion on 26 July, 2013, 03:04:47 pm
The worst was a bridge which spiralled in to the middle, then spiralled out again the other side.  Passable with a tandem, if you can wheel it on its rear wheel.  Simply bonkers otherwise.

That one's in my (as yet unwritten) list of top 5 silly cyclepath obstructions[1] of all time.  It's one of the few where I've given up and folded my folding bike in order to negotiate it.  I'm pretty sure which end of the genius-insanity spectrum that one lies on.


[1] I'll go and start a thread (https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=74343.new#new), shall I...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 July, 2013, 03:14:50 pm
That's a thread which could run and run.  But that bridge, delightful as it is for walkers, is a supreme example, simply because it isn't remotely accidental, but a deliberate commission.  Appropriate word for something that's half-way criminal.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 July, 2013, 03:19:22 pm
There are at least two sections of the Wandle trail where the designers have just shrugged and said 'This is too difficult', and dumped you onto a silly road.  The worst of these was due to be solved by the LCN+ network, which jolly old cycle-friendly Boris Johnson axed, let's not forget.  Another sends you up a busy hill (joining the road just before a constriction heading North), and through an estate before putting you onto a decent cycle path which dwindles with comic hilarity, as it crosses a couple of junctions and the entrance to a petrol station at just the place drivers aren't looking, to a deeply inadequate shared path.  That's to avoid a short and pretty section which is still designated footpath, but could very easily be sorted.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 26 July, 2013, 04:50:59 pm
Quote from: clarion on 26 July, 2013, 03:19:22 pm
There are at least two sections of the Wandle trail where the designers have just shrugged and said 'This is too difficult', and dumped you onto a silly road.  The worst of these was due to be solved by the LCN+ network, which jolly old cycle-friendly Boris Johnson axed, let's not forget.  Another sends you up a busy hill (joining the road just before a constriction heading North), and through an estate before putting you onto a decent cycle path which dwindles with comic hilarity, as it crosses a couple of junctions and the entrance to a petrol station at just the place drivers aren't looking, to a deeply inadequate shared path.  That's to avoid a short and pretty section which is still designated footpath, but could very easily be sorted.

I use the Wandle trail a lot and yes, that weird spiral bridge is definitely a little bit – ok, a lot – special. Occasionally, for added fun, they decorate it with the hospitality committee of one of the local estates. It's always good to see the local wildlife in its native habitat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 26 July, 2013, 05:44:42 pm
Quote from: clarion on 26 July, 2013, 03:04:47 pm
Surfaces on the Wandle trail vary massively, with no more than about 200m of any type.  There's sand, tarmac, gravel, macadam, brick paviors, mud etc etc. 
Sounds like I need to get Pugsley (re)built and get my arse down to London ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 July, 2013, 09:44:51 am
Oh, I wouldn't say it was exciting enough for Pugsley.  I rode it both ways yesterday (well, most of it) on a fixed with 25 section tyres.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 29 July, 2013, 10:55:04 am
A post-Dunwich bad neck led me to fit sit up and beg bars on my Pearson at the weekend, and the ride to work was delightful.  Had a chat with another pearson rider at New Cross Gate and then met Ben/Skully, whom some of you may remember fron November's Cambridge ride, and we had a pleasant chat about ruined abbeys and such like.

Also had a chat with a greentomato priapus driver who pulled left into my lane, clipping my bars with his wing mirror.  I queried his driving, and he apologised and then whined "I indicated and I apologised, what more can I do?"   I suggested that he might take care not to drive into cyclists, so he repeated his whine.  So I spelled it out again: what I'd like him to do is not drive his car into me.  Does he really think that it's OK to hit a cyclist, so long as you indicate that you're about to do it, and apologise afterwards?

Oh well, the pleasures of the ride were far greater than the woes.  My neck is already thanking me for changing the bars.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 29 July, 2013, 12:39:01 pm
Quote from: PaulR on 29 July, 2013, 10:55:04 am
Also had a chat with a greentomato priapus driver who pulled left into my lane, clipping my bars with his wing mirror.  I queried his driving, and he apologised and then whined "I indicated and I apologised, what more can I do?"   I suggested that he might take care not to drive into cyclists, so he repeated his whine.  So I spelled it out again: what I'd like him to do is not drive his car into me.  Does he really think that it's OK to hit a cyclist, so long as you indicate that you're about to do it, and apologise afterwards?

Sounds a bit like the driver who reversed into me.
"I looked and I couldn't see you, so it's your fault" was his basic line. Repeated over and over again. I was delighted to be told that the correct place for me to position myself to go straight on at a junction was by the kerb, "so he could see me", as opposed to directly behind him on the centre-line of the car, directly behind his rear view mirror...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 29 July, 2013, 07:18:36 pm
Quote from: alexb on 29 July, 2013, 12:39:01 pm
Quote from: PaulR on 29 July, 2013, 10:55:04 am
Also had a chat with a greentomato priapus driver who pulled left into my lane, clipping my bars with his wing mirror.  I queried his driving, and he apologised and then whined "I indicated and I apologised, what more can I do?"   I suggested that he might take care not to drive into cyclists, so he repeated his whine.  So I spelled it out again: what I'd like him to do is not drive his car into me.  Does he really think that it's OK to hit a cyclist, so long as you indicate that you're about to do it, and apologise afterwards?

Sounds a bit like the driver who reversed into me.
"I looked and I couldn't see you, so it's your fault" was his basic line. Repeated over and over again. I was delighted to be told that the correct place for me to position myself to go straight on at a junction was by the kerb, "so he could see me", as opposed to directly behind him on the centre-line of the car, directly behind his rear view mirror...

Self-justification is common. The chap who pulled out into me took the time and trouble to turn on his indicators afterwards (I had a nice view as I was sprawled on the road) and left them on until the police turned up. His first words to a police officer: "I was indicating."

Even if he had (and he most definitely hadn't), I still think it a tad unreasonable to pull out without looking and into another road user and send them flying over your bonnet. Still, the Met didn't think that was careless either, so there you go.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 29 July, 2013, 08:33:43 pm
A race between me and the rain this evening.
I nearly won!
However, if I'd done my usual homeward bound pootle, I've have been totally drenched so it was worth it.
Shame I didn't think about timing the ride until nearly half way, though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 30 July, 2013, 06:05:45 pm
Coming back home I was doing a bit of commuter racing. The road was busier than usual; in fact the traffic seemed heavier everywhere as if there were a problem somewhere closer to town. As I came into the village, a car overtook me, then realised there might not be room for him and the transit to fit past the parked cars. We all, just about, came to a halt in time. Sigh. And I didn't catch my target.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PAC on 30 July, 2013, 08:52:07 pm
Sooooo.....now working in London, so have purchased a Brompton S2L, which is a superb bike :thumbsup:  Observations so far:

- It's superb, but blimey, it's slow up hill!
- I can burn up other cyclists on normal bikes until I reach about 10kph
- The sheer amount of other 'people riding bikes' that completely ignore traffic lights is shocking :facepalm:

Great fun ;D

Cheers!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 31 July, 2013, 06:16:32 am
Quote from: alexb on 29 July, 2013, 12:39:01 pm
Quote from: PaulR on 29 July, 2013, 10:55:04 am
Also had a chat with a greentomato priapus driver who pulled left into my lane, clipping my bars with his wing mirror.  I queried his driving, and he apologised and then whined "I indicated and I apologised, what more can I do?"   I suggested that he might take care not to drive into cyclists, so he repeated his whine.  So I spelled it out again: what I'd like him to do is not drive his car into me.  Does he really think that it's OK to hit a cyclist, so long as you indicate that you're about to do it, and apologise afterwards?

Sounds a bit like the driver who reversed into me.
"I looked and I couldn't see you, so it's your fault" was his basic line. Repeated over and over again. I was delighted to be told that the correct place for me to position myself to go straight on at a junction was by the kerb, "so he could see me", as opposed to directly behind him on the centre-line of the car, directly behind his rear view mirror...

Had a woman nearly pull out in front of me, but thankfully awoke from her reverie just in time.  I got one of those coy little smile & wave combos.  Not sure what reaction that is supposed to elicit " ooh you nearly killed me, you cheeky little scamp"?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 31 July, 2013, 08:56:40 am
Ab-so-lute-ly nothing to report on my commute (as usual), apart from the drizzle being a little heavier than expected, and the schools are 'off' which, as we all know, means the roads are empty. Well, almost.

Usual 2 minute ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 31 July, 2013, 11:30:58 am
Why does the rain always (well, the last 2 days anyway), wait until I get off the train at Waterloo at 07:50 to start?

If it was raining when I left home at 07:00, or I spotted it on the train windows any time before Putney, I could take the 'can't be ars*d/legs are tired/hungover/cold/wet' route of changing at Clapham Junction, getting the train one stop to Victoria, and barely getting up to speed before pulling over into the office.

From Waterloo isn't far, but surprising how that misty rain gets you soggy in a short time.  Too warm to put the pakajak on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 31 July, 2013, 05:59:33 pm
First commute for nearly two weeks and the first one since the schools broke up.
The annual re-learning of the new traffic patterns.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 31 July, 2013, 06:01:04 pm
Quote from: Basil on 31 July, 2013, 05:59:33 pm
First commute for nearly two weeks and the first one since the schools broke up.
The annual re-learning of the new traffic patterns.

Don't forget the non-event that is the closure of the A38 tunnels.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: phantasmagoriana on 31 July, 2013, 06:05:26 pm
Bah. I knew I should have taken waterproofs...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 01 August, 2013, 01:38:12 pm
Quote from: phantasmagoriana on 31 July, 2013, 06:05:26 pm
Bah. I knew I should have taken waterproofs...

You should have bought those Aldi rain legs when they were on offer. I've packed a set in my saddlebag and never needed them once since doing so...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 01 August, 2013, 02:46:40 pm
Quote from: SlowCoach on 01 August, 2013, 01:38:12 pm
Quote from: phantasmagoriana on 31 July, 2013, 06:05:26 pm
Bah. I knew I should have taken waterproofs...

You should have bought those Aldi rain legs when they were on offer. I've packed a set in my saddlebag and never needed them once since doing so...

That's how rainlegs work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Otto on 01 August, 2013, 04:06:45 pm
Quote from: Kim on 01 August, 2013, 02:46:40 pm
Quote from: SlowCoach on 01 August, 2013, 01:38:12 pm
Quote from: phantasmagoriana on 31 July, 2013, 06:05:26 pm
Bah. I knew I should have taken waterproofs...

You should have bought those Aldi rain legs when they were on offer. I've packed a set in my saddlebag and never needed them once since doing so...

That's how rainlegs work.

Same as normal legs but apart from being a little moist
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 01 August, 2013, 04:14:56 pm
All I can say is, gosh it's jolly hot out there. That wind is sooooooooooo warm!  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: dave r on 01 August, 2013, 05:53:32 pm
Quote from: Riggers on 01 August, 2013, 04:14:56 pm
All I can say is, gosh it's jolly hot out there. That wind is sooooooooooo warm!  ;D

I know, I had it in my face all the way home, hot and strong, I was dripping by the time I got in, I don't normally work that hard, I've been drinking like a fish since I got in and I've only done six and a half miles.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 01 August, 2013, 08:43:37 pm
Jings! Crivvens!   _Four_ other cyclists this evening (all west-bound to Ciren) and all within a half mile stretch before Ampney Crucis. How very odd.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 01 August, 2013, 08:58:33 pm
Rode in astride a rare galloping tailwind, which was nice. Coming home, less so, since it felt like I was trying to cycle up the tailpipe of a turbojet. Hot and hard, and not in the good way. I'm too old for hot and hard in any format. Especially on days like this. I'm not normally sweaty, but today I could drain a great lake and still not replenish the liquids I've lost. Intravenous beer, nurse!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 01 August, 2013, 09:06:08 pm
^
Wot he said.
Cold (ish) bath waiting.
Chilli con carne to follow - with some inappropriate re-hydration  :D

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 01 August, 2013, 09:25:07 pm
Not a bad ride in, all other things being considered, apart from some hipster idiot almost piling into me at the University end of Walmgate Stray. Forgot that *$ was being refurbished so no double espresso.

The way back: sweet Jeebus it was hot - there was fairly brisk headwind, but rather than taking the edge off the heat it just seemed to be moving it around. By the time I got home I was wondering whether I should wash my shorts or just have them shot there and then.

The Sustrans chuggers were out in force by Rowntree Park as well - seriously guys, trying to get a cyclist to stop by stepping out in front of them is a seriously foolish move, especially when the cyclist in question is me and I'm doing around 18mph  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 01 August, 2013, 09:51:06 pm
Hot, hot headwind on the way home.  Blimey, that wind was hot.
No point in fighting it, I've experienced that sort of hot wind coming up from Africa before, just gear down and tour home. (Via the liquid replenishment place on the Raddlebarn Road)
Nice peaceful journey spoilt by being clipped by an idiot riding on the pavement trying to ride straight through me as I was turning right out of a T.
I'm afraid I lost it a bit and called him rude things, at which point he professed a preference to do the fighting thing.  At that I lost it even more and released my inner BEAR.
He backed down and slunk off. 
Bloody lucky for me really.  Those of you who have not met me should know that I am a very unimpressive skinny old streak of piss-weed. 
I must try not to do that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 02 August, 2013, 08:22:04 am
You are Cohen The Barbarian and ICMFP. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 02 August, 2013, 09:09:04 am
Early morning massive thundering-and-a-lighterning going on. Quite impressive rain actually. Proverbial stair rods. Waited for the appropriate lull, before venturing forth. Humid. That's all from Brighton.

Probably heading your way now, wherever you are.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tigerrr on 02 August, 2013, 09:35:12 am
Riggers - do you actually smoke a pipe in RL? I think the decline of pipesmoking correlates very closely to the general decline in standards of decent behaviour. One used to be able to trust a chap with a pipe.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 02 August, 2013, 09:44:49 am
Humidity that could stall a 747 this morning - probably the wrong day to decide to give it a bit of welly, but I still did anyway. My clothing probably contravenes several chemical weapons limitations treaties as a result  :sick:

The other thing that sticks in my mind is that it was unnervingly quiet - I set off at my usual time (8.30-ish) but barely encountered anyone else until I got to the barracks. Was York stricken with some kind of zombie apocalypse and nobody told me?

On the plus side, it wasn't a mind-buggeringly hot as it was last night and the wind actually cooled things down a wee bit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 02 August, 2013, 10:26:31 am
I lay in bed listening to the thunder a rain this morning, and decided to catch the train.  Got up, saw sunshine, changed my mind.  I got about half way to work before I decided to put my lights on.  Then the thunder and lightning returned, with large-calibre hail.  Ouch.  Bare arms and bald head meant I had to seek shelter for a few minutes.  But still glad to have cycled in, particularly knowing how grim the trains are likely to be on a wet Friday evening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 02 August, 2013, 11:13:15 am
First commute since getting knocked off. Enjoyed it as it was a nice ride in with the wife to drop the italia off at condor for its complementary first service. Also decided to have some swissstop greens and more padded bartape fitted whilst it is there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JBB on 02 August, 2013, 07:44:57 pm
Well this is really about yesterday... On the way in I was held up as the farmer in Nunton who decided at 08:15 was a good time to get his dairy herd across the road. No problem, it's countryside; however despite mudguards the bike got a fair covering of cow-shit.  No problem you think - but after cycling home into the south easterly fan oven the stuff was stuck on like the proverbial. It did cool me down when I hosed it off - repeatedly!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 03 August, 2013, 02:27:35 am
I am back from a commute that would have been so much more fun had it been by bike.  It would also have been substantially quicker. I only mention it here as I saw Jurek as I drove through Brockley before being stranded for five hours on the M11. I was already fairly bitter at having to forego the transportation of bike to the wilds of Suffolk for a little fun in order to bring others back to civilisation when actually it would have been far more cost effective to pay their train fare and allow me the freedom to cycle wherever and whenever I wanted.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: dave r on 03 August, 2013, 05:10:44 pm
Quote from: JBB on 02 August, 2013, 07:44:57 pm
Well this is really about yesterday... On the way in I was held up as the farmer in Nunton who decided at 08:15 was a good time to get his dairy herd across the road. No problem, it's countryside; however despite mudguards the bike got a fair covering of cow-shit.  No problem you think - but after cycling home into the south easterly fan oven the stuff was stuck on like the proverbial. It did cool me down when I hosed it off - repeatedly!

Where abouts in Nuneaton? I'm commuting from Coventry, Holbrooks, to Nuneaton, Caldwell Rd.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JBB on 03 August, 2013, 09:53:07 pm
Quote from: dave r on 03 August, 2013, 05:10:44 pm
Quote from: JBB on 02 August, 2013, 07:44:57 pm
Well this is really about yesterday... On the way in I was held up as the farmer in Nunton who decided at 08:15 was a good time to get his dairy herd across the road. No problem, it's countryside; however despite mudguards the bike got a fair covering of cow-shit.  No problem you think - but after cycling home into the south easterly fan oven the stuff was stuck on like the proverbial. It did cool me down when I hosed it off - repeatedly!

Where abouts in Nuneaton? I'm commuting from Coventry, Holbrooks, to Nuneaton, Caldwell Rd.

Nunton, a small village to the south of Salisbury.....
J
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: dave r on 03 August, 2013, 09:56:30 pm
Quote from: JBB on 03 August, 2013, 09:53:07 pm
Quote from: dave r on 03 August, 2013, 05:10:44 pm
Quote from: JBB on 02 August, 2013, 07:44:57 pm
Well this is really about yesterday... On the way in I was held up as the farmer in Nunton who decided at 08:15 was a good time to get his dairy herd across the road. No problem, it's countryside; however despite mudguards the bike got a fair covering of cow-shit.  No problem you think - but after cycling home into the south easterly fan oven the stuff was stuck on like the proverbial. It did cool me down when I hosed it off - repeatedly!

Where abouts in Nuneaton? I'm commuting from Coventry, Holbrooks, to Nuneaton, Caldwell Rd.

Nunton, a small village to the south of Salisbury.....
J
My apologies I misread you location  :-[ :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JBB on 04 August, 2013, 09:31:26 pm
Quote from: dave r on 03 August, 2013, 09:56:30 pm
Quote from: JBB on 03 August, 2013, 09:53:07 pm
Quote from: dave r on 03 August, 2013, 05:10:44 pm
Quote from: JBB on 02 August, 2013, 07:44:57 pm
Well this is really about yesterday... On the way in I was held up as the farmer in Nunton who decided at 08:15 was a good time to get his dairy herd across the road. No problem, it's countryside; however despite mudguards the bike got a fair covering of cow-shit.  No problem you think - but after cycling home into the south easterly fan oven the stuff was stuck on like the proverbial. It did cool me down when I hosed it off - repeatedly!

Where abouts in Nuneaton? I'm commuting from Coventry, Holbrooks, to Nuneaton, Caldwell Rd.

Nunton, a small village to the south of Salisbury.....
J
My apologies I misread you location  :-[ :-[

No worries - nobody's heard of Nunton after all!  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 05 August, 2013, 08:57:12 am
Good morning, boys and girls!  Today I have become ANGRY MAN.

ANGRY MAN has a message for you: Leave me alone and stay the f*ck out of my way, you selfish, ignorant motons!

Have a nice day. :)


I know I won't.  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 05 August, 2013, 09:20:39 am
It's a bit wet out there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 05 August, 2013, 09:31:32 am
When I woke up this morning it was hammering down.  The 6:57 weather forcast on the Toady program informed me it was more or less set in for the day.  An inspection of the Rain Today radar over breakfast confirmed this.

Not one drop fell during the commute and the jacket remained in the pannier.  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 05 August, 2013, 09:47:14 am
It's lovely and dry out there. <smug of Brighton> Oh, and still warm too*. 2 minute commute as usual.

*Edit: 12.30pm. Rain here  >:(

40-miler or so yesterday mind, and I was congratulating myself on discovering a little known phenomenon, which is: the air is 'thinner' in the morning, and therefore easier to cycle through than before it's 'thickened up' by the time the Sun's heated the air up. Fact. Hmmm. I should have realised I was actually cycling with the wind. It might have some effect methinks.

Something else. Age tells you one certainty: You're not as fast as you imagine. As a couple of (younger thank God) cyclists sail past you. As a younger rider I might well have 'had a go' at closing the gap and overtaking. Now, I think: "What are you gonna do if you did? You'd only be knackered, and couldn't maintain that effort for very long anyway." You see now, I can be pragmatic and philosophical.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 05 August, 2013, 10:36:32 am
Riggers, were you out on the SDW yesterday between Streat and Lewes perchance ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 05 August, 2013, 10:54:52 am
No, sorry Hatters. Was on the road bike. Cycling along to Seaford, then Cuckmere, Wilmington, Arlington, Firle, Lewes, Hassocks,  Hurstpierpoint and back home.

Did sail past the start of Streat Hill Farm road, on the way to Ditchling thinking: "God, you're in no fit state to even contemplate cycling up that one, even if you're on the MTB."
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 05 August, 2013, 11:35:34 am
:-)

I think the answer is just to do it very slowly. We managed to get two families up there yesterday; two 10 year olds, one 11, one 12 and one 13, plus four grown ups. All bar four cycled all the way up, albeit with a few stops.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 05 August, 2013, 11:42:43 am
Well done to all. It's one of those hills which has the nagging mantra occurring (in a small whispery voice): "You could walk this quicker … you know you could … go on, try it!"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 05 August, 2013, 01:02:17 pm
Back on the commute after LEL & the backs of my knees appear to have siezed up  :( :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 05 August, 2013, 05:36:02 pm
Quote from: Basil on 05 August, 2013, 09:31:32 am
When I woke up this morning it was hammering down.  The 6:57 weather forcast on the Toady program informed me it was more or less set in for the day.  An inspection of the Rain Today radar over breakfast confirmed this.

Not one drop fell during the commute and the jacket remained in the pannier.  :D

Bugger.
 >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 05 August, 2013, 06:22:22 pm
Quote from: Basil on 05 August, 2013, 05:36:02 pm
Quote from: Basil on 05 August, 2013, 09:31:32 am
Not one drop fell during the commute and the jacket remained in the pannier.  :D

Bugger.
 >:(

Seems to have dried off now.  Best get to the pub quick.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Datameister on 05 August, 2013, 07:23:01 pm
Quote from: fungus on 05 August, 2013, 01:02:17 pm
Back on the commute after LEL & the backs of my knees appear to have siezed up  :( :facepalm:

Just use the fronts  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 05 August, 2013, 08:05:29 pm
Quote from: hatler on 05 August, 2013, 11:35:34 am
:-)

I think the answer is just to do it very slowly. We managed to get two families up there yesterday; two 10 year olds, one 11, one 12 and one 13, plus four grown ups. All bar four cycled all the way up, albeit with a few stops.

What time would that have been? On the way back down the beacon yesterday I had a huge grin* brought to my face seeing several children having a good go at the ascent.

*May not have looked much different from the fly eating, rictus of imminent, plungy death that I was wearing the moment before.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 05 August, 2013, 08:17:17 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 05 August, 2013, 08:57:12 am
Good morning, boys and girls!  Today I have become ANGRY MAN.

ANGRY MAN has a message for you: Leave me alone and stay the f*ck out of my way, you selfish, ignorant motons!

Have a nice day. :)


I know I won't.  >:(

Well.  I was no longer ANGRY MAN when I left the office this evening.  Any guesses as to how long that lasted?  ::-)

Was there anyone operating a motor vehicle on London's roads today who had even a hint of a clue as to how to drive properly?  I sure didn't notice any.  I don't remember the last day I saw so much appalling driving. 

*sigh*

Let's try again tomorrow, but do it better, OK?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pippa on 05 August, 2013, 08:21:44 pm
Today you say? Yeah today was full of not very sensible decision driving. Thankfully I only had to cycle home and not to work. Must be the darkness that appeared over London this evening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 05 August, 2013, 08:25:33 pm
Quote from: Pippa on 05 August, 2013, 08:21:44 pm
Today you say? Yeah today was full of not very sensible decision driving. Thankfully I only had to cycle home and not to work. Must be the darkness that appeared over London this evening.

What a relief!  I was worried it was just me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 05 August, 2013, 08:32:58 pm
Quote from: benborp on 05 August, 2013, 08:05:29 pm
Quote from: hatler on 05 August, 2013, 11:35:34 am
:-)

I think the answer is just to do it very slowly. We managed to get two families up there yesterday; two 10 year olds, one 11, one 12 and one 13, plus four grown ups. All bar four cycled all the way up, albeit with a few stops.

What time would that have been? On the way back down the beacon yesterday I had a huge grin* brought to my face seeing several children having a good go at the ascent.

*May not have looked much different from the fly eating, rictus of imminent, plungy death that I was wearing the moment before.
That was heading up Streat Hill (about a mile East of Ditchling Beacon) at about 11.30. From the top we headed to Lewes so didn't go near DB.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 06 August, 2013, 08:31:38 am
Feck me but that was biblical on the way home yesterday  :o

I rode out at the exact moment that the rain turned to a deluge. Couldn't help laughing though ::-)

It did make me wonder however- which is harder, cycling in to wind or cycling against the flow.

Some of the back roads were flowing like rivers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 06 August, 2013, 08:52:14 am
Last night was not a good time to find out (though I guess I knew really) that an Endura Pakajak is not waterproof.  At best, it is showerproof - any more than a light shower, and you are completely soaked.  As in you might as well be wearing a jacket made from kitchen roll.

I had only got round the corner from Grosvenor Place to Buckingham Palace and the arms were completely soaked through and stuck to me.  I was wet right through to the skin, including my padded bra top (ladies here will attest that isn't very comfy).

At least it was on the way home so it didn't matter so much.

I have one or two jackets and a trenchcoat that I know are completely waterproof - my trusty Altura Kinetic, and a Lands End ladies trenchcoat.  But it is too warm to be wearing any jacket at the moment really.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 06 August, 2013, 08:56:58 am
I did exactly what fuzzy did.  I couldn't have timed it worse.
I called in the pub on the way rather than carry on home, and the staff were laughing at the state of me.  I floped my mitts and cap onto the bar and asked jokingly "Have you got a tumble dryer?".
"Off couse" said one of them, whipping them off the bar.
20 minutes later they were returned - dry.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 06 August, 2013, 09:00:24 am
Tried a different route in this morning, don't know if I will bother again, for 3 reasons:

1) I got lost (soon rectified with the aid of Google Maps)
2) I got a puncture
3) I nearly got wiped out by an idiot in a black peugeot who thought it was a good idea to try and overtake me on a blind corner when a bus was coming the other way, only then to have to pull into me when the front of their car was right alongside me!  I may have used some naughty words...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 06 August, 2013, 09:28:03 am
Yay, back to it! (Sort of, had to bring in the Italia as the equi is still somewhere in the north...)

Roads were quiet and the route fairly clear (apart from the red lights!) and I made good time. Kept passing the same people that had passed me by either RLJ'ing or using the ped crossings to get to the other side of the junctions. I so much prefer a road bike to the old hybrid.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 06 August, 2013, 03:00:49 pm
Last night, by the time I reached the lights where Blackhorse Road tube station is (about 5 minutes ride from work) I was soaked through to the skin (and probably beyond).

It did occur to me at that point that I should question the wisdom of my decision to ride home rather than sit it out.
I was in a short sleeved merino top & 3/4 bibs. An hour and ten minutes of cold shower, and I reckon I could be getting into hypothermia territory. Mercifully about five minutes later it stopped, only to re-start twice more before I reached home.
It didn't really matter by then.....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 06 August, 2013, 05:54:29 pm
I had to stop very quickly on my way home as my stem bolts came loose so I had rotating bars.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 07 August, 2013, 07:34:36 pm
This morning...

1. On rounding a corner a mile or so from home;  ten or so young rabbits in the middle of the road.
2. A mile or so from work a TdF like moment.  A cow in the field next the road running parallel alongside for a few dozen yards.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 07 August, 2013, 08:37:54 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 07 August, 2013, 07:34:36 pm
2. A mile or so from work a TdF like moment.  A cow in the field next the road running parallel alongside for a few dozen yards.

Reminds me: I had an informal race with a teenage horseist last week.  Equines are normally wary of the recumbent, but this one was quite happy to canter alongside in the adjacent field.  Alas it was slightly uphill and horsepower won over aerodynamics.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 08 August, 2013, 08:21:14 am
Quote from: Kim on 07 August, 2013, 08:37:54 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 07 August, 2013, 07:34:36 pm
2. A mile or so from work a TdF like moment.  A cow in the field next the road running parallel alongside for a few dozen yards.

Reminds me: I had an informal race with a teenage horseist last week.  Equines are normally wary of the recumbent, but this one was quite happy to canter alongside in the adjacent field.  Alas it was slightly uphill and horsepower won over aerodynamics.

Whereas I, on rounding a bend on the way home yesterday afternoon, was faced by 2 horses riding 2 abreast and filling the road. One got a little spooked on suddenly seeing me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 09 August, 2013, 07:29:01 pm
Hit debris, ripped 1" hole in sidewall. Bugger, that tyre has only done 500 miles. Booted it with inner tube and limped home
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 August, 2013, 07:31:25 pm
Are you OK?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 09 August, 2013, 07:35:33 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 09 August, 2013, 07:29:01 pm
Hit debris, ripped 1" hole in sidewall. Bugger, that tyre has only done 500 miles. Booted it with inner tube and limped home

Last Sunday I went on a ride with a contingent from LFGSS, amongst whom there were a couple of brakeless riders (one of whom's frame didn't even have the appropriate hole(s) - should one wish to fit a brake(s))
It transpires he changes his rear tyre every 7 to 10 days (he works in a bike shop, so tyres to him are 'at cost').
If his riding is solely around town, he reckons on changing his rear tyre every 24 hrs.

500 miles, you say?  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 09 August, 2013, 07:42:20 pm
There is a guy at work who rides a 32/16 single speed.

I wonder how his tyres look.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 09 August, 2013, 08:12:39 pm
Quote from: simonp on 09 August, 2013, 07:42:20 pm
There is a guy at work who rides a 32/16 single speed.

I wonder how his tyres look.


I ride 34:18 (I think! it may be 32:18  ::-)  ) and my tyres are fine ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 09 August, 2013, 08:20:12 pm
34:18 isn’t a 2:1 ratio between chainring and sprocket.

Basically it means that the power stroke of each leg is always at the same point on the tyre, two revolutions later.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 09 August, 2013, 08:22:36 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 09 August, 2013, 07:35:33 pm
Last Sunday I went on a ride with a contingent from LFGSS, amongst whom there were a couple of brakeless riders (one of whom's frame didn't even have the appropriate hole(s) - should one wish to fit a brake(s))
It transpires he changes his rear tyre every 7 to 10 days (he works in a bike shop, so tyres to him are 'at cost').
If his riding is solely around town, he reckons on changing his rear tyre every 24 hrs.

He should see if he can get a staff discount on a proper frame...   ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 09 August, 2013, 08:29:28 pm
Shitty aggressive behaviour from a London driver on Euston Rd this evening. Basically wasn’t happy that I wasn’t riding in the gutter, so that he could squeeze past, and then left hook me.  :facepalm: Sitting on my wheel aggressively sounding the horn didn’t work, did it, prat?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 09 August, 2013, 08:34:32 pm
Quote from: simonp on 09 August, 2013, 08:20:12 pm
34:18 isn’t a 2:1 ratio between chainring and sprocket.

Basically it means that the power stroke of each leg is always at the same point on the tyre, two revolutions later.


Ahh! I see what you mean, although that's somewaht mitigate because it's single speed rather than fixed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 09 August, 2013, 09:31:15 pm
Quote from: clarion on 09 August, 2013, 07:31:25 pm
Are you OK?
Yeah thanks - all credit due to the tyres and bike, tbh. It blew out instantly, but thick tread meant I could brake to a stop ok. 25mph at the time with (fortunately) stationary queuing traffic next to me. Not the normal 70mph traffic.

Sooo - your brakeless rider, Jurek. What sort of crap tyres are they using?

The downside of using disc brakes is that I lock the rear wheel up constantly. The Rubino pro wore flat really fast - these randoneur pros weren't showing any sign of wear.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 09 August, 2013, 09:44:29 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 09 August, 2013, 07:29:01 pm
Hit debris, ripped 1" hole in sidewall. Bugger, that tyre has only done 500 miles. Booted it with inner tube and limped home
For an instant I read that as saying you'd ripped a hole in the wall of a house. I was amazed that you could do that and still be writing.  :o Though I suppose if it had been a plasterboard prefab...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 12 August, 2013, 10:18:28 am
After a long and painful saga with the online retailer from which I purchased it, I finally got to ride in on my equillibrium 00 this morning! Happy with the bike, responsive and comfy with just enough feedback. Only 2 problems, the seat material is very slippy and the brakes calipers are made of swiss cheese.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 12 August, 2013, 11:11:05 am
I trundled into work at Great Yarmouth via Tube, trains, taxi and Brompton. Hopefully to be reversed in a couple of day's time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 12 August, 2013, 11:42:22 am
Quote from: LittleWheelsandBig on 12 August, 2013, 11:11:05 am
I trundled into work at Great Yarmouth via Tube, trains, taxi and Brompton. Hopefully to be reversed in a couple of day's time.
My condolences ...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 12 August, 2013, 06:56:46 pm
Saw and waved at Pippa. Somehow managed to do the commute in 35 minutes, the wind must have been behind me.

A colleague came and asked me if I'd been cycling down Cannon Street Road the other day and I confirmed I had. She was in her car and said she'd tooted me but I'd responded with a scornful glance. I'd had a bit of hassle with drivers that day as I'd pootled round various site visits so I'm quite grateful that I decided against making any kind of rude gesture and stopped at a bit of a dirty look; I'd assumed that she was just a moron driver who had a problem with me being in the middle of the road to turn right  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pippa on 12 August, 2013, 07:04:00 pm
Saw NSTN just after leaving home. Then, there were Police with clipboards at that awful Aldgate junction. I wonder what they were making notes about - maybe how to make the junction less cycle friendly? They were there the other morning as well, but instead of clipboards they seemed to be issuing fines to RLJing cyclists. They had parked directly over the bit of blue paint. Yeah the blue paint and junction is crappy anyway, but it was particularly more so with everyone having to navigate around the parked police car.

And then this evening, same junction but heading home, I was going right onto the Commercial Road.  I was in the ASL and there was a guy on a scooter to the left of me in the ASL. When the lighs changed we both moved, except I was going for a long shallow right turn to avoid the hole in the road, whereas he was going for a sharp right. It all got a bit wobbly, sweary and clenchy for a brief moment as his front wheel came into contact with my foot on the pedal. No harm done but cue lots of head shaking from both of us at each other.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 12 August, 2013, 07:06:33 pm
I got zapped by a police speed gun going through Beckermet. They must have been there catching the rat-runners who speed through there but by the time I left work they were getting a bit bored.  They offered to tell me what speed I was doing but asI was going uphill into a headwind I really wasn't interested.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 12 August, 2013, 07:11:42 pm
Three noteworthy things on today's ride:

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 12 August, 2013, 07:20:25 pm
First commute since being knocked off. Didn't feel like it had affected me on lel, but was really nervous at junctions today - even found myself hesitant on roundabouts.

Tips on getting over it welcome. Commute is in to central Leeds or central Bradford, so pretty heavy traffic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 12 August, 2013, 07:25:19 pm
Quote from: DrMekon on 12 August, 2013, 07:20:25 pm
First commute since being knocked off. Didn't feel like it had affected me on lel, but was really nervous at junctions today - even found myself hesitant on roundabouts.

Tips on getting over it welcome. Commute is in to central Leeds or central Bradford, so pretty heavy traffic.

You need us as your lead-out  ;D.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 12 August, 2013, 07:30:18 pm
Please!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 12 August, 2013, 07:38:40 pm
Quote from: DrMekon on 12 August, 2013, 07:20:25 pm
Tips on getting over it welcome.
Somewhat less flippantly, we had a thread:Fight The Fear (https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=28707)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 13 August, 2013, 09:28:49 am
Quote from: DrMekon on 12 August, 2013, 07:20:25 pm
First commute since being knocked off. Didn't feel like it had affected me on lel, but was really nervous at junctions today - even found myself hesitant on roundabouts.

Tips on getting over it welcome. Commute is in to central Leeds or central Bradford, so pretty heavy traffic.

I did my third commute post being knocked off today and you just have to keep at it. First time in I was taking my Italia in for a service at Condor so cycled in with my wife, which helped. Second time was yesterday and on the new commuter bike. found myself cycling way more defensively. Today was a little better but I am still very aware of turnings and junctions. Probably a good thing! ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 13 August, 2013, 09:44:52 am
A lovely morning, a little chilly in the shadows, but lovely when I got into the sun.

Careful drivers, giving me plenty of room.

No punctures.

Record time to get to work.

I have a feeling I am actually still asleep and dreaming :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 13 August, 2013, 10:09:27 am
On the way home last night - police car and ambulance pulled up onto verge a few hundred yards ahead of me. By the time I got there, ambulance had set off.

Bicycle left abandoned on grass in front of police car.

There is a cyclepath there so I guess either the rider collapsed from health problems or managed to come off somehow.

Nothing in this morning's paper so maybe it was trivial.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 13 August, 2013, 09:26:36 pm
Stopped in the ASL at the bottom of a hill (Loampit Vale for those wot know it). I was on the fixed with full panniers, so probably looked a bit CTC. Three chappies on flash road bikes, all the matching gear, came along, came past me, and stopped right in front of me.  Took a small amount (OK, a lot) of pleasure in scalping all three on the climb  :smug:

It's the small things that make commuting fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 14 August, 2013, 09:14:07 am
On mornings like this I could do with extending my commute.
An additional 50 or 60 miles should do it.
Perhaps with a bit of coastline thrown in.
Please.
Hmmmmm?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 14 August, 2013, 09:38:02 am
Quote from: tiermat on 13 August, 2013, 09:44:52 am
A lovely morning, a little chilly in the shadows, but lovely when I got into the sun.

Careful drivers, giving me plenty of room.

No punctures.


Record time to get to work.

I have a feeling I am actually still asleep and dreaming :)

This, again, apart from the record time bit.

I seem to have entered a parrallel universe...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 14 August, 2013, 09:45:18 am
Hollibobs and Real Life mean I haven't commuted in by bike for a while. Today I did. And went along the gorgeousness that is   Lonesome Lane. Hah!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 14 August, 2013, 12:39:24 pm
Four cyclists approaching a set of traffic lights (red);  one of them went through.  The other three (of whom I was one), who waited for the light to change to green, were all on Brooks saddles.

Coincidence?  I think not.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 14 August, 2013, 12:40:36 pm
I have been commuting on red bike because green bike needs me to stick the crank back on which I will not do until I have given it a proper clean.  Now red bike has ceramic rims. Unfortunately these can lose all braking potency in the rain when the surface is dirty. So today the braking changed from better than normal, then it started to rain and I have no braking at all.  A shame because I was looking forward to the mile long descent, scary.  I also made an interesting turn into the industrial estate. I missed my entrance to East Road and continued down the up carriage way and turned into East Road from the up carriage way entrance. Luckily the road was quiet.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 14 August, 2013, 12:42:16 pm
Quote from: rower40 on 14 August, 2013, 12:39:24 pm
Four cyclists approaching a set of traffic lights (red);  one of them went through.  The other three (of whom I was one), who waited for the light to change to green, were all on Brooks saddles.

Coincidence?  I think not.

Depends on whether they had more than one gear, I suppose...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 14 August, 2013, 09:43:09 pm
Made a pedestrian swear today. I don't know if he was worried for his own safety or mine. I was briefly heading straight for him while having no part of my bike within a foot of the ground. He was on the pavement about 8 ft from the kerb and I was always at least six feet into the road but I think the unexpected flurry of movement spooked him more than anything else. Unholy combination of pot-holes, overtaking lorry and a wave of tarmac pushed up from the nearby bus stop led me to opt for getting some serious air rather than chance trying to maintain contact with the Walworth Road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 15 August, 2013, 11:27:08 am
Bizarre moment last night. I'd stopped outside M&S at Cannon St station and was about to fold the Brommie when I caught sight of a woman walking rather briskly in my direction, head turned 90 degrees to the left, obviously captivated by something going on offstage. By the time I realised she wasn't going to turn her eyes to actually look where she was going, or deviate her path to avoid me, it was too late to give her any kind of warning, so she walked straight into my front wheel. She stumbled in a comically dramatic fashion but managed to avoid falling over... and then just carried on walking, without so much as a glance back in my direction.

I was too bemused to react myself.

She's quite lucky to have narrowly avoided impaling herself on my handlebars, tbh.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 15 August, 2013, 02:15:01 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 15 August, 2013, 11:27:08 am
Bizarre moment last night. I'd stopped outside M&S at Cannon St station and was about to fold the Brommie when I caught sight of a woman walking rather briskly in my direction, head turned 90 degrees to the left, obviously captivated by something going on offstage. By the time I realised she wasn't going to turn her eyes to actually look where she was going, or deviate her path to avoid me, it was too late to give her any kind of warning, so she walked straight into my front wheel. She stumbled in a comically dramatic fashion but managed to avoid falling over... and then just carried on walking, without so much as a glance back in my direction.

I was too bemused to react myself.

She's quite lucky to have narrowly avoided impaling herself on my handlebars, tbh.

She's quite lucky you weren't in a vindictive mood.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 15 August, 2013, 02:24:30 pm
It did occur to me afterwards that given more time to think about it, I might have braced myself against the impending impact and angled the bars slightly towards her, but that would indeed have been unnecessarily vindictive.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 15 August, 2013, 03:51:19 pm
Today I am training and Bromptoning back to the Big Smoke from Great Yarmouth, just for a change of pace.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: caerau on 15 August, 2013, 07:23:29 pm
Overtaken on the INSIDE by a fucking coach on a small roundabout this evening. I was taking the lane on the approach as it has two lanes on the approach which splits into two going right and one to go left as you get there - I needed to go right so I take the left hand lane otherwise the traffic doesn't let you out. Aside from me and the coach there was no other traffic - he could have quite easily overtaken me in the right hand lane on the approach . ::-) I shall restrict myself to ARSEHOLE! here which is much less fruity than what I called him at the time and what I called him 5 seconds later when I went back past him at the traffic lights.  >:( >:( >:(

I have his number plate but the coach company appears to be a coach hire business so naff all chance of finding him. Otherwise they would be getting an irate phone call and letter.  I've a good mind to report it to the police but I know it would be a waste of time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 15 August, 2013, 07:29:23 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 15 August, 2013, 11:27:08 am
Bizarre moment last night. I'd stopped outside M&S at Cannon St station and was about to fold the Brommie when I caught sight of a woman walking rather briskly in my direction, head turned 90 degrees to the left, obviously captivated by something going on offstage. By the time I realised she wasn't going to turn her eyes to actually look where she was going, or deviate her path to avoid me, it was too late to give her any kind of warning, so she walked straight into my front wheel. She stumbled in a comically dramatic fashion but managed to avoid falling over... and then just carried on walking, without so much as a glance back in my direction.

I was too bemused to react myself.

She's quite lucky to have narrowly avoided impaling herself on my handlebars, tbh.

She was probably embarrassed at being such a numpty.

Today on CS3 I encountered both a cyclist and a man on one of those tiny children's scooters coming down the path (downhill) the wrong way (ie straight at me). The bloke on the scooter fell off as we passed eachother with inches to spare. He didn't seem hurt. I tried not to snigger.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 16 August, 2013, 08:36:21 am
On the way to work I was overtaken by a Steam Engine, on the dual carriageway bit of the A64

(it was on the back of a low loader)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 16 August, 2013, 09:00:40 am
Rode the fixer today for the first time since the big bang incident on the 28th of July.
Didn't realise how much I missed riding fixed.
New wheels are rolling very nicely  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 16 August, 2013, 09:05:13 am
Quote from: Caerau on 15 August, 2013, 07:23:29 pm
I have his number plate but the coach company appears to be a coach hire business so naff all chance of finding him. Otherwise they would be getting an irate phone call and letter.  I've a good mind to report it to the police but I know it would be a waste of time.

Actually you have the possibility of getting more of a response from coach companies. I believe they have to be licensed so a letter to the company with a copy to the licensing authority will definitey wake them up as it will be on their file when they come to renew. The licensors can take poor driving into account as to whether the company are fit and proper to be running such a business.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: caerau on 16 August, 2013, 09:31:33 am
Quote from: David Martin on 16 August, 2013, 09:05:13 am
Quote from: Caerau on 15 August, 2013, 07:23:29 pm
I have his number plate but the coach company appears to be a coach hire business so naff all chance of finding him. Otherwise they would be getting an irate phone call and letter.  I've a good mind to report it to the police but I know it would be a waste of time.

Actually you have the possibility of getting more of a response from coach companies. I believe they have to be licensed so a letter to the company with a copy to the licensing authority will definitey wake them up as it will be on their file when they come to renew. The licensors can take poor driving into account as to whether the company are fit and proper to be running such a business.

Thanks for that - sadly I had to rather guess the name of the company - I *think* it was P&P coaches but I could be wrong as I was concentrating on getting the registration and managed to forget the company name on the back.  :( 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 16 August, 2013, 10:17:25 pm
I followed a mountain biker for the first half of the commute home today, who was plainly having a larf getting into the air over every possible lump on the cycle path. I passed him once we got to the uphill bit, but didn't leave the ground once.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 19 August, 2013, 09:57:03 am
Stung by a wasp.
Stung by nettles.
First clipless incident in nearly 20 years.

If this is in any way indicative of how the rest of the week will go then I think I'll just stop in bed.

On the plus side, at least I haven't bent any more pedal axles.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 19 August, 2013, 10:00:28 am
Traffic was awful but the sun was out! ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 19 August, 2013, 06:16:54 pm
A girl at work getting her bike out of the shed.  She was wearing VERY short hot pants.  You could see her arse cheeks, not that I was looking, obv.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 19 August, 2013, 07:43:30 pm
Quote from: rogerzilla on 19 August, 2013, 06:16:54 pm
A girl at work getting her bike out of the shed.  She was wearing VERY short hot pants.  You could see her arse cheeks, not that I was looking, obv.

Blimey! Where do you work? I've never worked in a place where anyone wore anything that exposed their arse cheeks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 19 August, 2013, 07:52:33 pm
I bet she gets terrible chafing.  There is a reason cycle shorts are the length they are.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 19 August, 2013, 07:59:40 pm
Quote from: David Martin on 16 August, 2013, 09:05:13 am
Quote from: Caerau on 15 August, 2013, 07:23:29 pm
I have his number plate but the coach company appears to be a coach hire business so naff all chance of finding him. Otherwise they would be getting an irate phone call and letter.  I've a good mind to report it to the police but I know it would be a waste of time.

Actually you have the possibility of getting more of a response from coach companies. I believe they have to be licensed so a letter to the company with a copy to the licensing authority will definitey wake them up as it will be on their file when they come to renew. The licensors can take poor driving into account as to whether the company are fit and proper to be running such a business.
How can a hire company be responsible for the driving of the people it hires vehicles to?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pippa on 20 August, 2013, 10:07:59 am
A couple of pedestrians ran across the road without looking. The cyclist in front of me slammed on his brakes and went full somersault over his handlebars and landed smack on his back, partially on the kerb/road. I stopped. The pedestrians stopped. A couple of others stopped. He let out an almighty wail. I asked him if he wanted an ambulance. He wasn't sure so I suggested it was best to get himself checked out. He agreed so I got on the phone whilst someone else sat with him. Ambulance turned up. Peds (tourists I think with very little english - all they could say was "sorry sorry") gave him a £50 note and left. I offered to take his bike to the secure parking at my office, but the ambulance said they could take it to the hospital. Cyclist guy was happy with it going to the hospital as he had a lock. He was chatty and seemed OK, but agreed it was best to go to hospital - you never know with these back injuries. He thanked me for hanging around and calling the ambulance. I gave him my details in case he needed them. I carried on to work not really knowing if there was something else I could/should have done (taken the details from the tourists maybe?).

I hate commutes like that  :( Someone tries to save a few seconds and someone else ends up in an ambulance  >:( Fingers crossed nothing serious on this occasion at least.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 20 August, 2013, 10:13:04 am
Sounds like you did everything you could. And probably more than some others may've done.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 August, 2013, 10:37:20 am
Glad you were there to help him.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 20 August, 2013, 07:29:18 pm
I notched up my 2000th km since getting back to cycling in feb!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 20 August, 2013, 07:36:59 pm
In the news tonight....

London falls prey to unprovoked flying ant attack.
At least the parts that I cycled through did.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 21 August, 2013, 09:15:03 am
This morning was FAST, very very FAST, partly due to half of my commute being a TdC with a fellow cyclist that passed me as I went through Quy.

My legs now HURT!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 21 August, 2013, 09:20:51 am
Maybe I wasn't being nice enough on my commute?

I didn't gesture, I didn't pass up the wrong side of a vehicle.

I didn't jump a red light.

Maybe there is some other bit of niceness I am missing that would make the numpty who pulled out in front of me on a wet day, on a corner with associated oil drippage, not do so. And as I braked I was fervently praying that the front wheel woudn't slide (it was just the back wheel and no contact was made).

Ah well, coffee is now made. And the driver was most apologetic so hopefully that will remind him to look in future.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 21 August, 2013, 09:56:38 am
Busy out there this morning. Nice ride up to Clapham Common with my wife and then a nice trundle down to work. Spoilt by a visit by the fairy 2 minutes away from work. Hole in a wierd place on the valve side of the inner and I couldn't find any culprit for the damage. Hey ho!

On and the Fuzz were pulling over ASL jumpers at Tooting Bec- cars and bikes!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 August, 2013, 10:15:21 am
I must have passed by before the Polis were up.

Oh yeah.  I was on the commute this morning.  The first four minutes of the ride gave me two cars pulling out on me on a roundabout, one running a red light, a ridiculously close pass, and someone sat behind me at the red light revving his engine like a fool.

I remember London.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 21 August, 2013, 11:52:16 am
Quote from: clarion on 21 August, 2013, 10:15:21 am
I must have passed by before the Polis were up.

Oh yeah.  I was on the commute this morning.  The first four minutes of the ride gave me two cars pulling out on me on a roundabout, one running a red light, a ridiculously close pass, and someone sat behind me at the red light revving his engine like a fool.

I remember London.

Its all good fun. I ended up going through a dodgy amber this morning being chased by a Lorry that had been revving his engine at the previous lights. A bit annoying!

Oh and if you see someone huffing and puffing away on a white genesis, say hello! ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 August, 2013, 01:32:53 pm
I shall.  I'm easier to spot, as I almost always wear a yacf jersey (and normally ride a 20yo turquoise Ridgeback Romany or a stickered up black fixed with a Sturmey Archer hub). 

Mind you, I shall be heading in for an 8am start until Tuesday at the very earliest.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 21 August, 2013, 02:46:37 pm
Due to either barakta or Kim, or both, playing with bloody grenades (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-birmingham-23771358) last night, the police made me take a detour that I was going to take anyway.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 21 August, 2013, 02:54:28 pm
Quote from: Basil on 21 August, 2013, 02:46:37 pm
Due to either barakta or Kim, or both, playing with bloody grenades (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-birmingham-23771358) last night, the police made me take a detour that I was going to take anyway.  :)

Can't prove a thing.  I was holed up in West Bromwich with a nice cold pint waiting for all of it to blow over.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 August, 2013, 05:58:47 pm
I doubt that Kim would leave anything unexploded.  Shoddy job, if you ask me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 21 August, 2013, 06:57:33 pm
Hang on.  *Rushes  back to thread*

Quote from: Kim on 21 August, 2013, 02:54:28 pm
Can't prove a thing.  I was holed up in West Bromwich with a nice cold pint waiting for all of it to blow over.

Huh?  A Pint?  ???

Knowing you, you're mucking about with liquid nitrogen.  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 21 August, 2013, 09:01:41 pm
Today's commute should be known as 'Attack of the Flying Ants!', loads of the blighters.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 21 August, 2013, 09:11:07 pm
Quote from: Basil on 21 August, 2013, 06:57:33 pm
Hang on.  *Rushes  back to thread*

Quote from: Kim on 21 August, 2013, 02:54:28 pm
Can't prove a thing.  I was holed up in West Bromwich with a nice cold pint waiting for all of it to blow over.

Huh?  A Pint?  ???

Knowing you, you're mucking about with liquid nitrogen.  :D

Well brewing is a good example of applied science. I remember looking at a system that was designed for heating beer uniformly and which involved sending the liquid momentarily supersonic for something at work recently :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PAC on 21 August, 2013, 09:33:02 pm
Still amazed at the amount of idiots on bikes I see on my commute from Paddington to Foley Street.....this morning a bloke clearly wanting to be seen with his hi-viz on went straight through a red light that I stopped & he then turned off & went down a one way street the wrong way :facepalm:

On a plus side....having a hoot going flat out on the Brompton ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 21 August, 2013, 09:35:55 pm
Why do people who ride on the pavement wear all that hi-viz stuff?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 21 August, 2013, 09:50:57 pm
Quote from: Basil on 21 August, 2013, 09:35:55 pm
Why do people who ride on the pavement wear all that hi-viz stuff?

Fear of traffic.  Seems reasonable, judging by the pavements around here.  Apart from the magic protective properties of hi-vis, anyway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 August, 2013, 11:33:37 pm
Splendid sig :thumbsup:

Meanwhile, the listeners at home might like to know that Bluebottle was not deaded today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 August, 2013, 08:05:02 am
Another day, another commute.  Normally not news, but it made me happy (ish).

I can report that lads on road bikes don't like being passed by a fat old man on a touring bike.  And, it seems, the front racks I added last night seem to have made that worse.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 22 August, 2013, 08:25:45 am
Quote from: clarion on 21 August, 2013, 11:33:37 pm
Splendid sig :thumbsup:

Meanwhile, the listeners at home might like to know that Bluebottle was not deaded today.

Oh dear.  Does this mean you falled in the water?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 August, 2013, 09:10:13 am
No, but it was a close thing with the combination of deep puddles and crap driving this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 22 August, 2013, 09:16:27 am
Wet, warm and b@d@$$. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 22 August, 2013, 09:28:47 am
Got wet. Don't mind too much apart from having wet feet. My overshoes are crap!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 August, 2013, 09:31:09 am
I think I must have caught a gap between downpours.  It was very wet on the ground when I rode, but I didn't get more than light drizzle.

It went very dark outside while I was at my desk.

There is an advantage to an 8am start.  I'd been wondering...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 22 August, 2013, 09:49:12 am
On the train with the hoi polloi this morning.  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 22 August, 2013, 12:18:40 pm
Was shouted at by a pavement cyclist (shared use pavement) that I should be riding on the pavement. What, at 33kph?

My first commute all the way by bike since LEL.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 22 August, 2013, 03:46:17 pm
I had to stop at the top of the steep hill because I was hyperventilating ???

The hill is on the edge of my climbing ability on the singlespeed but I don't normally feel as bad as I did this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 22 August, 2013, 03:48:29 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 22 August, 2013, 03:46:17 pm
I had to stop at the top of the steep hill because I was hyperventilating ???

The hill is on the edge of my climbing ability on the singlespeed but I don't normally feel as bad as I did this morning.
It's just the universe telling you to go fixed ...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 23 August, 2013, 09:28:06 am
Nice cycle home last night despite my socks and shoes still being wet. Went out after work so cycled home in the dark and got to use my hope vision 1 for the first time. Nice light, especially on full when you get lost in a dark hyde park!

Nice one in on the way in too. Sunny and roads ok. Also got to cycle part of the way with my wife again. Very pleasant!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 23 August, 2013, 10:26:53 am
Came the A38 way - shorter by 3km, but there is a big 'koff hill in the middle, past Bristol Airport. Still faster overall, and it was more pleasant than the A370, overall.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 23 August, 2013, 11:30:04 am
Strawberry Line to Yatton then over Kenn Moor and LA would be a pleasant route. You would arrive at work just in time to lock up the office.  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 23 August, 2013, 11:59:03 am
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 23 August, 2013, 11:30:04 am
Strawberry Line to Yatton then over Kenn Moor and LA would be a pleasant route. You would arrive at work just in time to lock up the office.  ;)

The Strawberry Line is fine if you aren't in a hurry. Not a proper surface, and dog walkers about a lot of the time. It's faster for me to cycle up the A38 than it is for me to cycle to Yatton, catch the express train to Temple Meads, and cycle from there.

Now I've done CBT, I also have the option of buying a motorbike, but I'm going to get my full licence first, I think.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 23 August, 2013, 12:27:57 pm
Train through to FAW or Partway? unless I've misplaced your work. Riding the Strawberry Line in winter would be good practice if you wanted to get into cyclocross!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 23 August, 2013, 12:33:18 pm
Temple Meads. FAW trains have space for two bikes only. There are only two express trains which stop at Yatton in the morning and only one I'm likely to get up early enough for.

I'm going to try cycling the climb to the airport on the way home without 1500g of lock this evening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Vince on 23 August, 2013, 12:40:39 pm
Are you riding on fixed? Because I remember that was a great descent from the airport into Hartcliffe... for a freewheel equiped bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 23 August, 2013, 12:44:41 pm
Quote from: Wunja on 23 August, 2013, 12:40:39 pm
Are you riding on fixed? Because I remember that was a great descent from the airport into Hartcliffe... for a freewheel equiped bike.

65" fixed. Max speed this morning was 59.4kph, last night descending Red Hill it recorded 61.8kph. Which I can't do for long on 65".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Vince on 23 August, 2013, 12:54:03 pm
Yeah, that would be approaching patella escape velocity.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 23 August, 2013, 01:30:59 pm
Or paella escape velocity.  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 23 August, 2013, 10:32:46 pm
Paella escape is more likely going uphill on fixed…  :sick:

Tonight’s ride home was dry. Until I got near the top of Red Hill, at which point it became very wet. Riding in heavy rain in twilight isn’t much fun, in traffic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 27 August, 2013, 11:31:17 am
There was a little chill in the air first thing in the morning, quickly warmed up though!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 27 August, 2013, 11:34:36 am
Spoke to a driver this morning. 'you pulled right across in front of me. Did you see me?' 'No' 'Please would you look more carefully in future'

All very *nice*.

And twat of a taxi driver - there was really no need to accellerate to pass me at a point where passing was inadvisable, as you were sat behind a van and I was on your bumper all the way down the hill. Till you turned left and I overtook.

Unnecessarily aggressive.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 27 August, 2013, 05:50:15 pm
I know it is sad to strava my commutes but it allows me to record my miles and look at my progress over time. What it means is that today I know I beat my goal for one particular segment along cedars road in battersea- going under a minute (57s) and being he sad man I am that makes me rather pleased. Coued with the wonderful weather and sedate roads it was a nice cycle home!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 27 August, 2013, 06:53:13 pm
Had to detour north towards Bethnal Green on the way home tonight to put up a site notice. Ended up using some big nasty junction; just as I got to the lights they'd been amber for a couple of seconds and I'm blowed if I was going to amber-gamble of a dirty great junction where I don't even know the light sequences. So I stopped. None of the traffic was going very fast, because it was in a jam.

Evidently the car behind me *did* want to amber-gamble as they stopped about two inches from my back wheel in the ASL and hooted me furiously. I turned around and they were yelling and gesticulating furiously. I yelled back 'It's a red light!', also furious that they expected me to risk myself on the junction just so they could hoon across it. I was pretty mad by this point and was quite tempted to say a few more choice words, but remembering that there are nutters like the one who shoved Clarion off his bike I controlled my temper and contented myself with repeating 'It's. A. Red. Light' to which they said nothing and stopped gesticulating and just glared at me. I thought I might get a punishment pass as I continued up to Cambridge Heath road, but I didn't.

Of course no sooner had we passed the junction anyway they got stuck in another jam and I continued on my way. Fucking losers. I wouldn't want their blood pressure
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 27 August, 2013, 06:54:15 pm
Quote from: menthel on 27 August, 2013, 05:50:15 pm
I know it is sad to strava my commutes but it allows me to record my miles and look at my progress over time. What it means is that today I know I beat my goal for one particular segment along cedars road in battersea- going under a minute (57s) and being he sad man I am that makes me rather pleased. Coued with the wonderful weather and sedate roads it was a nice cycle home!

No it's not. I've started doing mine, because it saves me having to faff with a bike computer, which I constantly seem to lose. I'm not in competition with anyone but it's nice to track progress.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 27 August, 2013, 07:39:39 pm
A nice ride in and a rather painful ride home. My legs hurt, I wasn't particularly slow, it didn't seem like hard work and the headwind wasn't particularly strong. But they hurt, mostly the left one down the outside of the thigh  ???

Oh well. Big dinner and an early night methinks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 27 August, 2013, 07:41:43 pm
First commute in a few weeks, and it felt like it!
Got a soaking in the last half hour too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 28 August, 2013, 09:50:55 am
Very slow, even by my standards.

70-odd miles of COR yesterday might have something to do with it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 28 August, 2013, 10:04:51 am
Yesterday arvos' ride home was the first commute for almost 3 weeks. Nothing too taxing and nice to get back at it.

This mornings ride in however was the first ascent of Quarry Wood Road for nearly 3 weeks. 'kinell! That got the lungs heaving :o I got caught on the climb by a fellow commuter on a 2 speed Brommie. Nice to have some company for a short while and someone to gasp with till we summited ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gandalf on 28 August, 2013, 04:49:38 pm
Quote from: clarion on 25 July, 2013, 07:34:30 pm
Good stuff.  But isn't Sutton Council responsible for the pathetic lane?

A bit of post Necromancy.  Here's the reply I received to my FOI request about the farcility in question.

Thank you for your email which we received on 29 July 2013 asking for information about a cycle safety audit.

Your request has been considered in accordance with the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act and our information access policy.  I can confirm we hold some of the information you require. You asked for:

Information about the on-road cycle lane in Morden, on the A24 northbound between lower Morden Lane and the Harvester Public House and Restaurant.

Specifically, I would like a copy of the Cycle safety audit on the basis of a Freedom of Information request.

The cycle lane was installed approximately seven years ago and in accordance with the contemporary standards. Those standards have changed in the last few years and this section of the road is currently being reviewed with a view to improving conditions for cyclists.

Unfortunately, we are unable to trace the safety audit for this advisory cycle lane. We have searched our database, which covers all safety audits carried out within TfL. However, it does not include those carried out by consultants, who have done many of these audits for us in the past. 

Furthermore, we have searched our archived files but were unable to locate the safety audit from within our archive facility.

I am sorry we are unable to assist you further on this occasion.

Please feel free to email us in near future if you would like an update on the review of the location in question.

If this is not the information you are looking for, or if you are unable to access it for some reason, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Please see the attached information sheet for details of your right to appeal.

Yours sincerely
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 28 August, 2013, 06:17:02 pm
Well thanks to some brain dead Oik in Bracknell I get to cycle home.

They pushed a shopping trolly onto te tracks such that it got jammed under a train and has had to be cut free.

Rail service is therefore in chaos.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 28 August, 2013, 06:33:15 pm
Well, that's a useful response, isn't it, Gandalf? ::-)

Did the dog eat their homework?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 28 August, 2013, 10:41:35 pm
it was good to actually ride home, though I could have done without the close pass with lots of revs going up hill and past a pedestrian island.

Somewhere in Wokingham, or its surroundings, is a white VW golf on I think a 12 or 13 plate with it's left hand wing mirror folded in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 29 August, 2013, 07:48:39 am
A lovely morning <repeat of previous commute posts>

A new PB! 27:10 to do 8.8 miles!

This is how the header of my spreadsheet looks now :)

Total   Av. Time   Av. Speed   Slowest   Fastest
582.6   00:51   12.72898148   7.68   19.55555556
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 29 August, 2013, 09:40:11 am
I resurected the Claud Butler tank hybrid last night and rode it in this morning. No computer on it but it didn't half feel heavy and slow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: red marley on 29 August, 2013, 10:08:49 am
Quote from: tiermat on 29 August, 2013, 07:48:39 am
This is how the header of my spreadsheet looks now :)

Total   Av. Time   Av. Speed   Slowest   Fastest
582.6   00:51   12.72898148   7.68   19.55555556

I'm impressed with your dedication to detail. That last decimal place of your speed measurements is equivalent to measuring your journey to work distance with a precision of about a particle of dust (16 microns). :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: diapsaon0 on 29 August, 2013, 09:47:35 pm
Just ridden through Canterbury city centre.  I was the ONLY bike with lights - well after dark.  Old Bill were well in evidence, but taking no notice of the dozens of lightless cyclists around.  As an aside, bottle dynamo on the Brommie  is pretty useless.  "Dear Santa, please bring me a Schmidt"  :P

N
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: phantasmagoriana on 29 August, 2013, 10:44:16 pm
Sustrans chuggers were out again today - I hadn't seen them for a couple of weeks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 30 August, 2013, 12:14:33 am
Aw.  I've only seen a Sustrans chugger once, while I was late for a train in Bristol.  Missed opportunity.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 30 August, 2013, 07:20:51 am
It might not be about the bike, but it sure as hell might be about the gearing.
74" is 2kph faster than 63".
There's more honking involved though, even in Suffolk.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 30 August, 2013, 07:37:56 am
My new commute is all good, I am enjoying it.  Twickenham->putney->kings road->whichever posh bit I am working in (Eaton Square at the moment).

It's pretty flat (one bridge, the one where Marc Bolan died).

There are a lot more cyclists than even my Chiswick->ken high street->posh bits old commute - it is pretty insane at times with the number of riders.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 30 August, 2013, 08:39:27 am
There must be a bridge across the Thames as well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 30 August, 2013, 09:01:27 am
There is, two in fact, but I would consider putney and richmond bridges flat.

Even the one in Barnes where Marc Bolan died isn't exactly hilly.

Very very flat easy route. I like it.

Of course, of an evening, I have diverted home via Richmond park for some grimping with panniers full of laptop and toolkit.

Edited to add my second thoughts - Richmond bridge does have a hill on the way into town. But the surface is good so it feels less hill like.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RJ on 30 August, 2013, 09:27:47 am
A bit of a rant at a driver who felt that there was room for car and bike travelling in the same direction between two rows of parked cars on a minor suburban street and wondered why I yelled at him.

Claimed not to be in a hurry, though contraindicated by driving style  (there was room for me to move over - which I would have done - in a couple of car lengths).   ::-)

Not "Nice"  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: phantasmagoriana on 30 August, 2013, 12:29:00 pm
My final commute today. Never again will I have to ride up university hill! :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 30 August, 2013, 12:34:23 pm
This is probably the last quiet commute of the year.  I have enjoyed the light traffic but this week every day the traffic has been increasing from very quiet on Tuesday to more and more. It's a shame because I have been completing my commute in around 1hr 10mins most days of the summer holidays.  This morning I only managed 1hr 15 mins.  On Monday I believe the schools will be back and traffic will be heavy in the morning plus the little jams at each of the three schools I pass so my commute time will push out to 1hr 20mins.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 30 August, 2013, 12:34:37 pm
Quote from: phantasmagoriana on 30 August, 2013, 12:29:00 pm
My final commute today. Never again will I have to ride up university hill! :-\
Indeed not.
You'll have to ride up a load of different hills instead.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 30 August, 2013, 01:06:03 pm
Ooh, that's deep man.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 30 August, 2013, 02:34:35 pm
Quote from: Riggers on 30 August, 2013, 01:06:03 pm
Ooh, that's deep man.
Phissolophical, innit ....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 30 August, 2013, 02:42:12 pm

Quote from: Riggers on 30 August, 2013, 01:06:03 pm
Ooh, that's deep man.

Did Tina Turner sing River High Mountain Deep? I think not. Hills cannot therefore be deep. Please rephrase.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 30 August, 2013, 02:44:21 pm
Quote from: Ham on 30 August, 2013, 02:42:12 pm

Quote from: Riggers on 30 August, 2013, 01:06:03 pm
Ooh, that's deep man.

Did Tina Turner sing River High Mountain Deep? I think not. Hills cannot therefore be deep. Please rephrase.

Yeahbutnobutyeahbutno- if you goes up a hill then goes down a hill then goes up another hill you have bin througn a valley innit?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 30 August, 2013, 05:19:02 pm
Heard (and then saw) the ice-cream boat down by the Millennium Bridge on the way home - sadly, an intervening stretch of water prevented me partaking in icy dairy-based treats. Managed to avoid the Sustrans chuggers, too ...

Reckon the nautical purveyor of frozen milk products needs to change his jingle to something more fit-for-purpose than Greensleeves, though - Captain Pugwash theme, perhaps?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 30 August, 2013, 07:32:28 pm
I managed to miss a turn early on my ride home, because I was thinking about Other Things.
Dog only know how: my bike practically knows the way by itself.

I could have done a U-turn and gone my intended route, but I just continued the way I'd gone and took an alternate route, which is also quite nice.   It takes you through Fetteresso forest.   It's about 3k longer, but doesn't go over the big hill I usually go over.

Really enjoyed it.
I may do this a bit more often.

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/367646193
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: diapsaon0 on 31 August, 2013, 08:05:14 am
Enjoying commuting round Canterbury on the Brommie on my first uni residential weekend.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 02 September, 2013, 10:36:15 am
The traffic was back. Still, it was nice and sunny!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 02 September, 2013, 10:42:19 am
Had to deploy the "Emergency socks" from the little stash of emergency clothing from my locker.
Seems to happen about twice a year.
The only thing I've never forgotten is the bike.

(Must remember to replenish the stash tomorrow)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 02 September, 2013, 10:48:33 am
Got to The Armoury and my weapon of choice had suffered a visitation.

Thank heavens that previously N+1 had been applied.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 02 September, 2013, 12:10:34 pm
A similar experience here this morning - set off apace on the fixed bike, but as I swerved to avoid a motorised loon my back wheel went weird and Ivery nearly lost it.  Back tyre flat as a pancake, and I didn't have a spare with me (it was on my shopping list for today, honest) and so I walked it home, got the Dave Lloyd out of the shed and raced to work in almost record time. 

It's orrible to be back on the commute after two weeks away in the sunny north.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 04 September, 2013, 08:59:03 am
Children.
Loads of them.
Going to school.
On bikes :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 04 September, 2013, 10:53:04 am
On Monday and Tuesday I was wondering where all the expected increase in traffic was.

Ah.  It seems the schools went back today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 04 September, 2013, 10:58:52 am
Last night I got caught up behind a family group riding through Milton Country Park.  Also saw a mother and two children on bikes.

This morning I saw hardly anyone out on their bikes, but then I was out EARLY....

This morning was lovely, coming down to the Cam from the Fen Ditton direction, the meadows swathed in mist, the cattle grids slightly moist so care needed.  The cows were, unusually, wandering with careless abandon and doing what comes naturally to them (clue, it's brown and smelly), some of which, I discovered when I arrived at work, had deposited itself on my bike, mitts and jersey! :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 04 September, 2013, 02:08:33 pm
I'm spared commuting, but I had two or three errands to run in Shoreditch yesterday afternoon. My route took me across both the junctions here (http://www.hackneygazette.co.uk/news/pedestrian_injured_in_a_serious_collision_with_a_hgv_lorry_in_great_eastern_street_1_2365470) and here (http://www.london-se1.co.uk/news/view/7062), though rather before either incident.

And the junction here (http://www.standard.co.uk/news/london/woman-cyclist-killed-on-day-boris-reveals-plan-to-fine-hgvs-not-fitted-with-safety-gear-8797656.html) feels even closer to home. It used to be my way to school, and is still on my route to my parents'.

They haven't got me yet, but that's not a great 24 hours.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 04 September, 2013, 05:23:46 pm
Not my commute, but probably the involved cyclist's commute. I'm sitting here with the window open and I heard a shout together with an engine noise. I've just had a look and there's a cyclist who was evidently going down the hill, with the shoulder of his shirt torn but otherwise seeming unhurt (except he'd lost his glasses but a passer by found them). From overheard snippets it seems he was "going really fast", "I was doing 30" and came off avoiding possibly a woman with a dog (who said he was going really fast) or a car that crossed the road in front of him (and is now nowhere to be seen). I didn't actually see what happened, he seems uninjured, his bike seems ok and there are lots of people there with him already, so I've come back home to carry on with my non-commute. It's a dodgy road though, that's the second crash/incident I've seen in a few months (but the first involving a bike). Steep hill, busy at rush hour, lots of residential side roads with poor visibility.  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Rhys W on 04 September, 2013, 08:56:28 pm
"GET OFF THE ROAD!" from a lorry driver going the other way. Actually, he was more or less stationary in a queue waiting to enter the roundabout I'd just come off. I regret not stopping to "discuss it" with him now, because he was going nowhere. I could sense the hatred in his voice, which I found mildly disturbing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PAC on 04 September, 2013, 11:12:43 pm
Pimped the S2L with Ritchey WCS bar ends and Deore XT pedals.....now goes at warp speed through the streets of West London ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 05 September, 2013, 11:00:58 am
First commute for nearly 2 weeks (holiday last week).

+ 3kg weight in that time.

Shouldn't have had such a large breakfast. Thought I was going to see it again on some of the longer climbs. Developed a stitch a couple of times spinning downhill.

Lovely weather - but the drivers are being cretins.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 05 September, 2013, 11:21:35 am
Just to buck the trend, I had a lovely commute in this morning.

Foggy as I set off, but visibility varied between 50M and 150M+, no stupidly close passes.

Took a slightly different route in, instead of going down the lane to Fen Ditton, I carried on down Newmarket road a way then cut through the park and ride.  The fog cleared by the time I got to Fen Ditton, and all that was left was some river mist on the meadows down by the Cam.

Lovely, lovely ride in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 05 September, 2013, 11:36:21 am
Quote from: simonp on 05 September, 2013, 11:00:58 am
Lovely weather - but the drivers are being cretins.
Schools are back.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 05 September, 2013, 11:43:45 am
My fortnightly train ride to work this morning.
I've been spoilt over the summer months with relaxed journeys in carriages filled to 80% of their capacity.

This morning was back to the hell of the Cross City Line in all it's rush hour awfulness.

How can people do that every day? :hand:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 05 September, 2013, 11:45:02 am
Schools have been back a while. Good to be back on my regular commuter with chainrings that inspire a far greater degree of confidence in their ability to hold a chain (and to perform appropriate surgery on digitus misplacii.)

Discovered just how crap my legs are.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 05 September, 2013, 12:24:04 pm
A van with a trailer passed me today.  I was surprised he slowed right down then pulled out and passed with a courteous space between us. This pleased me greatly. Normally trailer towing vehicles whizz past with no allowance for the trailer.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 05 September, 2013, 12:26:56 pm
Yes, there has been noticeably more traffic, even though I commute after school run time.

I wonder what advantage tailgating a cyclist through a narrowing at a traffic island gains? I overtook them all in the queue at Bedminster.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 05 September, 2013, 07:17:49 pm
Suicidal rabbits this morning.  One dawdling in front of me for a few tens of yards until it got bored and another ran _towards_ my front wheel. Necessitating a complete stop.  At the bottom of a (OK not very steep) hill.  Floppy-eared git.

Oh and it appears to be muck-spreading time again.  *cough* *ack* *ack*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 05 September, 2013, 07:49:59 pm
Quote from: Basil on 05 September, 2013, 11:43:45 am
This morning was back to the hell of the Cross City Line in all it's rush hour awfulness.

How can people do that every day? :hand:

It's marginally better than driving...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 05 September, 2013, 08:12:14 pm
Numpty in a tipper truck took exception to my overtaking him as I was filtering, and then kept pace as the traffic found a happy speed of 20 mph. Me - about three bike lengths from the car in front, and holding it. Him, 2' off my rear wheel to start with and then goes for an utterly pointless and really threatening overtake.

I'm sorry, I've had a long easy Summer with the last week spent on the untrafficed lanes of Sussex, and all I could do was look over my shoulder and bellow at the top of my voice, repeatedly, "FUCK OFF FUCK OFF FUCK OFF" whilst he responded in kind and gesticulated violently that I should be in the gutter.

Not very mature or helpful I grant you, but I was really angry, probably through being intimidated by a twat behind the wheel of a ten tonner (or whatever they are).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CJBrewer on 05 September, 2013, 11:13:38 pm
Quote from: hatler on 05 September, 2013, 08:12:14 pm
Numpty in a tipper truck took exception to my overtaking him as I was filtering, and then kept pace as the traffic found a happy speed of 20 mph. Me - about three bike lengths from the car in front, and holding it. Him, 2' off my rear wheel to start with and then goes for an utterly pointless and really threatening overtake.

I'm sorry, I've had a long easy Summer with the last week spent on the untrafficed lanes of Sussex, and all I could do was look over my shoulder and bellow at the top of my voice, repeatedly, "FUCK OFF FUCK OFF FUCK OFF" whilst he responded in kind and gesticulated violently that I should be in the gutter.

Not very mature or helpful I grant you, but I was really angry, probably through being intimidated by a twat behind the wheel of a ten tonner (or whatever they are).

Something about Thursday evenings brings out the worst in people... Other than Monday mornings it's the most impatient time of the week.

But that kind of thing is really not all that uncommon and from what I have seen there is pretty much zero chance of any comeback even if you have it all on video.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 05 September, 2013, 11:44:38 pm
Quote from: Kim on 05 September, 2013, 07:49:59 pm
Quote from: Basil on 05 September, 2013, 11:43:45 am
This morning was back to the hell of the Cross City Line in all it's rush hour awfulness.

How can people do that every day? :hand:

It's marginally better than driving...

Ah yes,  Good point,
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 06 September, 2013, 09:18:08 am
Back to it this morning. It was a bit wet out and the traffic was awful but I wasn't on the train. Hooray!

Also felt a lot better being on gatorskins rather than the previous wet loo paper tyres. They didn't feel good at all.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 06 September, 2013, 09:34:44 am
Made it in before the heavens opened properly.
Slightly damp, but still in short sleeves and not cold.
Bike shelter at work is full. Full as in I had to find somewhere else to put mine.

Overshoes and waterproofs in bag, bike with mdgrds today.
On which basis I am expecting a sunny journey home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 06 September, 2013, 09:44:38 am
Quote from: Jurek on 06 September, 2013, 09:34:44 am
Made it in before the heavens opened properly.
Slightly damp, but still in short sleeves and not cold.
Bike shelter at work is full. Full as in I had to find somewhere else to put mine.

Overshoes and waterproofs in bag, bike with mdgrds today.
On which basis I am expecting a sunny journey home.

50/50 I reckon. Nowt like a wet cycle home! ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 06 September, 2013, 10:32:37 am
Spectacularly shitty piece of driving this morning in St Pauls. To save... no time at all. I overtook him in the inevitable queue about 5 seconds after.

No breakfast before I set off this morning, so no feeling like throwing up, and 2kph faster average.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 06 September, 2013, 10:45:19 am
only just dried my clothes (clammy jeans and cotton shirt) sitting in front of the fan. it was dry when i set off and i had a waterproof jacket in a rucksack, but didn't bother to put it on when it started raining as it was warm outside. i made my colleagues laugh when i entered the office.. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RJ on 06 September, 2013, 11:59:44 am
Above-average levels of moton muppetry on show today.  So much for the Niceway Code  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 06 September, 2013, 12:08:38 pm
Funnily, I thought exactly the same this morning.

Encountered 2 needlessly aggressive moves by taxis since last night, which is not usual in my experience. 
The challenging "WTF you gonna do about it" looks as they were doing were executing their manouvers were the worst of it. I can handle the odd bit of crap driving, (do it myself) but the challenging looks were a glimpse into their world of contempt.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 06 September, 2013, 12:51:33 pm
I had a very nice commute this morning.  I was expecting rain but instead I noticed the sky was overcast but not threatening. When I reached the LLantrisant Road to start the long westward part of my commute I noticed large perpendicular band of blue sky ahead.  I wondered if I would get from under the clouds and into the sunshine.  Sure enough as I approached work I was under the nice bit of sky.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 09 September, 2013, 10:09:14 am
Kidney stones have gone away.

GPS is working again, following much fiddling with soldering irons.

I rode to work! 'twas great, if a damn sight chillier than last week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 September, 2013, 10:11:01 am
Three pieces of good news together! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 11 September, 2013, 09:58:52 am
It was one of them mornings.  Whichever way the road turned it was always pointing straight into the wind. :hand:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 11 September, 2013, 11:28:46 am
Used the train as carrying laptop on my back. Attacked the Romney Avenue climb but didn't get a PB - 2nd best time. Need to try again unloaded and not the morning after a gym session.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 11 September, 2013, 11:33:53 am
Nice ride in today, no homicidal vacuum tanker drivers  :thumbsup:, Only issue was rounding a bend to find an oncoming ambulence slowly passing the queue to the traffic lights on blues but no twos. I used the dropover to get off the road and tried to signal any following traffic to stop at the junction.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 11 September, 2013, 03:21:26 pm
Not looking forward to the ride home.  I've just had a look at the rain radar.  Should start raining here in a few minutes.  Then it looks like the heavy stuff should arrive at exactly the wrong time.  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 11 September, 2013, 03:40:08 pm
Quote from: Basil on 11 September, 2013, 03:21:26 pm
Not looking forward to the ride home.  I've just had a look at the rain radar.  Should start raining here in a few minutes.  Then it looks like the heavy stuff should arrive at exactly the wrong time.  :(
What did you expect there is an England cricket match at Edgbaston.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 11 September, 2013, 03:43:28 pm
Quote from: matthew on 11 September, 2013, 03:40:08 pm
Quote from: Basil on 11 September, 2013, 03:21:26 pm
Not looking forward to the ride home.  I've just had a look at the rain radar.  Should start raining here in a few minutes.  Then it looks like the heavy stuff should arrive at exactly the wrong time.  :(
What did you expect there is an England cricket match at Edgbaston.

Of course!  Silly me.  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 12 September, 2013, 08:34:09 am
Got wet riding home last night, but this morning was a glorious ride in on damp roads but no rain.

This weeks 100km of commuting miles will be more thant the last ten weeks combined. I do quite like house sitting for my sister as 10km each way is far easier to do than 25km home in the evening when if I use the train I total ~1km of riding at both ends.  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 12 September, 2013, 08:45:53 am
My commute this morning started out great, fair whizzing along, chatting to the landlord as I went (his scotter is busted at the moment so he is cycling to work and works in the college next to where I work).

Got to the meadows alongside the Cam, all going well, hit the wooden path under the railway bridge and my steering felt a bit, er, wolly.

Once past the railway bridge I realised I had a puncture! Bugger!

I sent the landlord on his way and replaced the tube, getting to work 1/2 hour late :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 12 September, 2013, 09:09:29 am
For some reason I extended the normal extended loop at the start of my commute by a further 3 miles.  These days I spend more time commuting in completely the wrong direction than I do in the correct direction.  :D
Still, it would have been nice if I had told myself I was going to do that.  I could have left home a little earlier.  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 September, 2013, 10:57:59 am
I was commuting by train and foot, but I saw the aftermath of something serious on New Kent Road.  Lots of blue light vehicles, and the helicopter looking for somewhere to land. :(

I turned off before passing the incident.  I don't need to intrude.  But in the light of the statement I'd just made to the Police, and the incident I saw which almost became fisticuffs between two elderly drivers on Loughborough Road, it made me reflect on a number of things.

Stay safe out there people.  You're all important.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 12 September, 2013, 09:26:11 pm
Followed another cyclist down a side street, to see where it went, and "discovered" a very pleasant alternative to part of one of my regular routes home, cutting out three sets of traffic lights and a double back through a one system :-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 12 September, 2013, 10:56:50 pm
Set off from work to home and promptly got that sensation which told me that a) it was raining and b) I had neglected to replace the mudguard after my last fettling session.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Speshact on 13 September, 2013, 08:18:10 am
Someone ran out straight in front of me from behind a bus. I cover my brakes as I ride so I stopped. No collision, no injury. That's all.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 13 September, 2013, 08:48:39 am
It was wet. I wore my new gabba. It was awesome! At Balham the guy in front of me was nearly killed by an idiot WVM turning right and not looking. Luckily he managed to swerve and stayed upright.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 13 September, 2013, 11:47:29 am
Wasp got me on the neck, felt a sting and carried on to the bottom of Gas Hill then stopped and brushed my neck and the wasp fell out of my shirt and on the ground, so I turned the wheel and squashed him and then pinched the sting out. Necks all hurty now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 13 September, 2013, 01:30:39 pm
Witnessed a near collision between two red light jumpers - one a car running through southbound after the lights had turned red, the other a cyclist setting westbound off well before the lights had turned from red.  I would have thought he would have learned his lesson but the cyclist did exactly the same thing at the next junction.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 16 September, 2013, 10:19:16 am
Blimey, that was brisk.

(The air temp - not my speed)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Reg.T on 16 September, 2013, 11:25:56 am
I was expecting cool (having sent one child off to school at 7:30), and dressed accordingly, but it was much warmer and brighter by the time I'd done the school run 90 mins later.
Sun and tailwind made it a very enjoyable ride in to work from there. Even the half-overtake by a driver approaching a queue of traffic (cue tap on rear wing and toot in response) didn't spoil it - perhaps because after each of the 3 times he subsequently overtook there was no aggro and I re-passed again shortly after.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 16 September, 2013, 12:38:45 pm
Bunch of bananas, 4 apples, fresh towel and 4 Snickers in the saddlebag,  And into a strong headwind.  Arrived 10 minutes later than expected.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 16 September, 2013, 09:58:46 pm
A distinct lack of traffic on the way home compared to usual, to the point I began to wonder if the Zompocalypse had occurred whilst I was stuck at work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 17 September, 2013, 07:22:00 am
First time on the bike1 for a couple of weeks.
i) it's gotten quite chilly
ii) the angle of the sun is now deadly, and I had no shades or peak to hide under today, so rode one handed in a 'looking out to seas style-ee'
iii) which factors combined to make me quite surprised at a PB.
iv) I shouldn't be surprised, it's karmic law that I'm under dressed so have longer to wait on a drafty station platform.

1: for commuting. I managed one or two audax kms.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 17 September, 2013, 08:47:06 am
Quote from: Ashaman42 on 16 September, 2013, 09:58:46 pm
A distinct lack of traffic on the way home compared to usual, to the point I began to wonder if the Zompocalypse had occurred whilst I was stuck at work.
I had that in Surrey / SW London too. Weird.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 17 September, 2013, 08:54:18 am
Nearly taken out by RLJers at two seperate junctions.  Both of them cars, both of them crossing well after our lights had turned green.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonyh on 17 September, 2013, 09:52:59 am
Thanks for the warning reminder!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Morrisette on 17 September, 2013, 11:10:25 am
Quote from: fboab on 17 September, 2013, 07:22:00 am
First time on the bike1 for a couple of weeks.
i) it's gotten quite chilly
ii) the angle of the sun is now deadly, and I had no shades or peak to hide under today, so rode one handed in a 'looking out to seas style-ee'
iii) which factors combined to make me quite surprised at a PB.
iv) I shouldn't be surprised, it's karmic law that I'm under dressed so have longer to wait on a drafty station platform.

1: for commuting. I managed one or two audax kms.

I think you must ride the opposite way to me - west to east in the morning?
There's a reason you were fast.
It's the same reason I was very slow.... a lovely headwind. I wouldn't mind but it's freezing as well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 17 September, 2013, 11:32:12 am
Pootling up the backside of Crystal Palace (and yes, it does look big) yesterday afternoon and I was engulfed by a giant tornado of swirling leaves and debris. That was uncommonly exciting (and wobble inducing, plus I got two eyes full of grit). If I had a camera, I'd sell it to the news. Except I don't, so you'll just have to accept my eyewitness report.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 17 September, 2013, 03:04:55 pm
Quote from: Morrisette on 17 September, 2013, 11:10:25 am
I think you must ride the opposite way to me - west to east in the morning?
There's a reason you were fast.
It's the same reason I was very slow.... a lovely headwind. I wouldn't mind but it's freezing as well.
Damn it! I didn't think it was windy. Actually, that's the tell tale sign, isn't it.  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Reg.T on 18 September, 2013, 09:19:54 am
Grrr. Twunt thought it was ok to go side-by-side round a small roundabout and try to squeeze me on the exit. Then as I was turning off on a left hairpin (after taking primary and clearly signalling) he seemed to do a deliberate near-miss.  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 18 September, 2013, 09:22:02 am
I followed a guy on a beautifully set up Surly Disc Trucker today. A real labour of love, you could see that every component and detail had been really carefully thought out. Too bad there was no opportunity to stop and talk to him.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 18 September, 2013, 09:46:32 am
There is a distinct chill in the air, especially in the shadows. clear blue sky with almost no wind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 18 September, 2013, 10:19:53 am
Bit of everything this morning. I did a longer ride in, 34 miles, but I went from freezing and soaked, pitch black, no cars to dry, warmer, almost sunny briefly and a bit trafficy.

Highlight of the ride was a group of 5 deer all run across a road at once in front of me. Little family outing :)

Pretty brisk (for me) ride as well but I think I must have had a nightmare nights sleep as I am now actually dozing at my desk. I have a car to commute home in as I'm a dirty stop out tonight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 18 September, 2013, 10:55:58 am
Agreed, it is feeling autumnal now. First deployment of the trailer bike since the boy started school and also that I have been commuting on the equillibrium. Seemed to work fine and then he discovered that his legs are now long enough to send the pedals all the way round- this induced wobbles!

Otherwise, busy but pleasant enough pootle to work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 18 September, 2013, 11:20:58 am
Nearly taken out by a pavement cyclist travelling at speed.  I was turning left at a right angled junction, he appeared from nowhere at 20+ mph and just managed to avoid me as he attempted to flash across the junction.  I'm sure I had the same bloke do this before.

Hmm, an unusual number of incidents already this week on my normally quite unremarkable commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 18 September, 2013, 11:30:08 am
Not a commute, but across south London at commute o'clock yesterday evening. All the cyclists I overtook were visibly younger than me; all those who overtook me were older.

HTFB is 38.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 20 September, 2013, 09:46:46 am
an extended commute today, 78km, took my single speed bike to richmond park for a three lap challenge
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 20 September, 2013, 10:03:47 am
Last night was chilly, but dry.

This morning was commute by car :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 20 September, 2013, 12:06:24 pm
A guy (on a bike) overtook me as we approached a junction with the lights on amber, changing to green, then came to a dead stop in the ASL. No idea why, but the reaction swerve to avoid him nearly put me under the wheels of a following people carrier.

Spooked me enough to make me decide to take a meandering route for the rest of the ride - and very nice it was too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 20 September, 2013, 02:00:32 pm
Chatsworth Road, Lower Clapton this morning.
Two women on the pavement.
One of them holding the collar of the other in what can only be described as a *purposeful* grip.
The other, through gritted teeth snarling, "GETTCHA 'ANDS OFF ME!"
Any thoughts I may've had of intervening passed quickly, as it looked like they might do this sort of thing on a regular basis.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 23 September, 2013, 08:47:27 am
Nice cycle in, everyone mostly behaving and I had a nice, fast moving bunch to cycle along with. I rather enjoyed it!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 23 September, 2013, 09:46:48 am
Rode in an hour early this morning, and reminded myself why I don't do it normally. there must have been at least 5 times as much traffic as normal, and long queueueues at the site entry gates.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 23 September, 2013, 09:49:46 am
Great ride in today. Got a new top on Friday and it'#s perfect for this weather. Plus I fettle the bike to death last night - rebuilt the rear wheel, replaced the chain and drive sprocket, cleaned everything, lubed it all up and it's running like a dream today.
I had that "thrum, thrum, thrum" noise coming through the frame that you get when the bike is really putting the power down.
No discernible wind helped as well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 23 September, 2013, 10:13:31 am
You make me feel guilty. I got that thrum thrum thrum today after I too engaged in some extensive fettling yesterday. I pumped the tyres up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 23 September, 2013, 10:16:24 am
And yesterday, and not on the commute, so not really apprprpriate for this thread at all, I managed to draft the 131 bus back from Tescos with the ingredients for a Sunday roast and an extensive round of green tomato chutney making (6l of vinegar, 3kg of sugar, 2kg of sultanas, 2kg of onions) all in the bike hod !
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 23 September, 2013, 10:26:40 am
Had to get the tube in today as 'Overrunning Engineering Works' were messing up the trains this morning.

Train ends up 2 miles from work (nice easy ride in).

Tube ends up 500 yards from work.

So I went round the block just to stretch my legs. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 September, 2013, 10:31:40 am
However bad your cycle commute is, I fancy mine is currently worse.  Squashed in and in pain, the train jerking around.  I want to get back on the bike. :'(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 23 September, 2013, 10:43:21 am
Fog with idiots in fog. Most of them had put their lights on. Honestly, car manufacturers who make silver cars should be painted silver themselves and stood on a dual carriageway in the fog.

And warm again - back to just a single summerweight top and shorts.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 23 September, 2013, 11:00:48 am
For the first time in weeks, I was on the commute.

Missed it, amazingly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 23 September, 2013, 01:09:51 pm
You know how some drivers see a bike and it triggers a pavlovian need to overtake, regardless of circumstances?

I was following a van along Southwark Street this morning, at about 20mph, and the taxi driver behind me kept trying to edge past, even though I was keeping pace with the van and assertively taking the lane, so he would come alongside me a bit, then have to drop back when we reached a pinch point.

Psychologically, he probably saw it as me who was holding him up rather than the van.

What can you do?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 September, 2013, 01:13:00 pm
Uzi.  It's the only language they understand.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 23 September, 2013, 02:21:53 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 23 September, 2013, 01:09:51 pm
You know how some drivers see a bike and it triggers a pavlovian need to overtake, regardless of circumstances?

I was following a van along Southwark Street this morning, at about 20mph, and the taxi driver behind me kept trying to edge past, even though I was keeping pace with the van and assertively taking the lane, so he would come alongside me a bit, then have to drop back when we reached a pinch point.

Psychologically, he probably saw it as me who was holding him up rather than the van.

What can you do?

Yes, I was struggling to understand the motivation of the woman driving the XC90 in front of me who was attempting to push past a woman cycling with a child in a child-seat and a small child (about 8 I'd guess) on a small bike in front of her. Even from my position behind the 4WD I could see the parked car on the right after the bend, so knew that the Volvo would not fit - but she just. kept.. trying...

Of course, in her car was a single, perfect, offspring, surrounded by two tons of privilege driven by an idiot.

This was on a 90 degree, blind, right hand bend
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 23 September, 2013, 02:22:32 pm
I find it hard to believe that they are capable of anything so evolutionarily advanced as language.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 23 September, 2013, 02:23:21 pm
Quote from: alexb on 23 September, 2013, 02:21:53 pm
Of course, in her car was a single, perfect, offspring, surrounded by two tons of privilege driven by an idiot.

Beautifully put.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 23 September, 2013, 05:12:38 pm
The sun came out and apart from the sudden glut of unmarked police cars blue and twosing through Tooting it was a nice trip home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 23 September, 2013, 08:04:18 pm
On the way into work, there was some filming going on at one of these shops (https://maps.google.co.uk/?ll=51.454806,-0.13947&spn=0.003259,0.008256&t=m&z=18&layer=c&cbll=51.4547,-0.139577&panoid=AuARe_pCCDuw84-KZZVZCw&cbp=12,304.93,,0,0.7), on Abbeville Road.  I could see that it was going on, because I could see the lights almost from the A205, once I went around the slight turn where Abbeville Road joins the south circular.  this is several hundred foot away, in normal daylight conditions so bright lights.

I couldn't see exactly what they were doing, whether they were filming outside of the shop, or whether it was "sunlight" shining through the window, and was late enough for work that I didn't want to stop and see what was going on.  Slightly interesting.  I only catch something being filmed every couple of years in London (on average).  I guess I don't spend enough time around the high profile stuff, which probably has film crews around fairly regularly!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 24 September, 2013, 08:38:53 am
Fog. People driving slower than usual on dipped headlights :thumbsup: BMW barrelling along on full-beam ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 24 September, 2013, 08:44:49 am
Shame I didn't look out the window when I woke up - I would have left home earlier to enjoy the fog.

Drivers were good, but I couldn't believe the number of cyclists not using lights.  :facepalm: Yes, it's 'day', but visibility is poor. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 24 September, 2013, 08:58:02 am
Quote from: Andrij on 24 September, 2013, 08:44:49 am
Shame I didn't look out the window when I woke up - I would have left home earlier to enjoy the fog.

Drivers were good, but I couldn't believe the number of cyclists not using lights.  :facepalm: Yes, it's 'day', but visibility is poor.

Agreed, there were lots of people cycling like idiots out there this morning. No lights, wobbling all over the place, riding on pavements and RLJing. Seriously, the conditions were tricky but people cycle like dicks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 24 September, 2013, 09:52:04 am
Well I managed to make it to the gorup ride point before they set off today (we are having a cycle to work week). Unfortunately that meant that there were three of us, and all of us are in the CUG.

On the plus side, despite the low take up of organised commutes* there are a lot more bikes on site this week, and the Police security marking people were very busy yesterday when they came to site. Hopefully that will keep up for the next few days as well :)

7:30 is still the worng time to arrive at site though, far too much traffic compared to my normal 8:20 arrival time.



*We are running these rides because in our roadshow survey one of the main responses to 'what would encourage you to ride to work' was to be shown safe routes to site.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 24 September, 2013, 10:35:29 am
Thick fog on the A38 on Red Hill. Heavy traffic in Bristol, I overtook many of the cars that passed me in the fog.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 24 September, 2013, 10:40:38 am
Left an hour early this morning as Swindon Town FC are entertaining Jose and his Chelsea Boys this evening- need to get away early to bag a parking space and a good bench to nom my chish and fips before the game.

It was dark so had to deploy the headlight for the first time this autumn (Joystick on a helmet mount). It was also foggy. I was silver by the time I arrived at work ;D

Had to take my clears off as well- too bloddy misted to see through.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 24 September, 2013, 10:50:10 am
Not the widest road, me cycling one way, bus stopped on opposite side.

Predictably, numpty behind tried to overtake me, while numpty coming other way tried to come round bus.

Head-on collision only narrowly avoided.

The mind boggles.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 24 September, 2013, 10:53:06 am
Bike = 'Must overtake'

'nuff said.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 24 September, 2013, 12:45:10 pm
An eventful ride in to work this morning.  As I was descending a hill in a traffic queue my left hand suddenly lost all resistance from the brake lever. I assumed the cable had pulled through and I could fix it at work. It surprised me to find that my back brake is contributing more to my stopping than my front.  I hate riding in stop start traffic with inadequate braking.

At work I noted that the cable was OK and something more serious has happened.  I have to find a new screw.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 24 September, 2013, 01:19:03 pm
Took the pretty way in this morning.  Came in past East Surrey Hospital, heading for 2nd exit on the roundabout. Driver of car coming in at first exit made as if to go, with me in the way.

I braked and gave her a Hard Stare. She stopped and mouthed an apology. I smiled and blew her a kiss.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 24 September, 2013, 03:05:29 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 24 September, 2013, 08:44:49 am
Shame I didn't look out the window when I woke up - I would have left home earlier to enjoy the fog.

Drivers were good, but I couldn't believe the number of cyclists not using lights.  :facepalm: Yes, it's 'day', but visibility is poor.

After a bad patch, I was seriously considering turning my rear on, in one of its epilepsy inducing modes, but 30 seconds later I was in bright sunshine.  The fog around Croydon was particularly patchy and localised.  This was at about 9-30, I don't exactly get up early. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 24 September, 2013, 06:38:45 pm
Quote from: TimO on 24 September, 2013, 03:05:29 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 24 September, 2013, 08:44:49 am
Shame I didn't look out the window when I woke up - I would have left home earlier to enjoy the fog.

Drivers were good, but I couldn't believe the number of cyclists not using lights.  :facepalm: Yes, it's 'day', but visibility is poor.

After a bad patch, I was seriously considering turning my rear on, in one of its epilepsy inducing modes, but 30 seconds later I was in bright sunshine.  The fog around Croydon was particularly patchy and localised.  This was at about 9-30, I don't exactly get up early. ;D

I had fog all the way in, all the way to Albert Bridge. On the North side of the bridge it was clear and bright. I'd love to have seen a view of London from a plane this morning - I'd guess the South side of the city was lost under fog, right up to the Thames and then clear visibility further North.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 24 September, 2013, 07:37:46 pm
Ride home abandoned due to spoke breakage. FFS.

Lucky I was near a station.

That's three bikes in the workshop now. Ho hum.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 24 September, 2013, 07:53:31 pm
Well, that was an eventful return journey.

First, the winner of the Bad Parent Award.  It is understandable that if one has to carry a large bag as well as push a pram containing a child one might carry the bag in one hand and push the pram with the other.  That is what today's winner was doing.  "Where's the 'bad' bit?" I hear you ask.  As the woman walked along the pavement carrying her bag, she was pushing the pram along the cycle lane - against the flow of rush hour traffic.  :facepalm:  (Cable Street, for those interested).

Then we had two people standing here (http://goo.gl/maps/zBjVB), at the bottom of the ramp, between the bollards,  having a chat.  Maybe they were attracted by the pretty blue paint?

I've saved the best for last.  Arrived at a zebra crossing, with a crossing pedestrian, the same time as another cyclist.  Cyclist carries on through, hugging the kerb, just in front of the ped as he was finishing his crossing.  I questioned, in a not overly loud voice, his intelligence.  Ped finished crossing, I carried on and passed said cyclist.  He catches up with me at the next set of lights, says nothing.  A third cyclist comes around us and proceeds to jump the red light.  I say something even less charitable about the RLJer.  At this point the 'zebra-jumper' turns to me and, with a straight face, says "You seem to have a problem with people cycling."  My gob was well and truly smacked, otherwise I would have fallen over laughing.  I was dressed as I usually am on a commute in this weather: jersey, lycra shorts, SPD sandals, mitts, cycling cap.  Obviously I have a problem with cyclists.  ::-)  I replied "No, I have a problem with people who think the law doesn't apply to them just because they're on a bicycle."  The lights turned green, and I went on my merry way, shaking my head in utter disbelief.

I wonder what tomorrow will bring...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 24 September, 2013, 09:29:54 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 24 September, 2013, 07:37:46 pm
Ride home abandoned due to spoke breakage. FFS.

Lucky I was near a station.

That's three bikes in the workshop now. Ho hum.
Herbert's must have you on their Christmas card list by now - I'm assuming it is they that are attending to your needs..... ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 24 September, 2013, 09:53:35 pm

Quote from: Jurek on 24 September, 2013, 09:29:54 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 24 September, 2013, 07:37:46 pm
Ride home abandoned due to spoke breakage. FFS.

Lucky I was near a station.

That's three bikes in the workshop now. Ho hum.
Herbert's must have you on their Christmas card list by now - I'm assuming it is they that are attending to your needs..... ;)

Actually, I mostly prefer the DIY route but I try to put business their way when possible. The owner is a very decent chap.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 24 September, 2013, 10:01:40 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 24 September, 2013, 09:53:35 pm

Quote from: Jurek on 24 September, 2013, 09:29:54 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 24 September, 2013, 07:37:46 pm
Ride home abandoned due to spoke breakage. FFS.

Lucky I was near a station.

That's three bikes in the workshop now. Ho hum.
Herbert's must have you on their Christmas card list by now - I'm assuming it is they that are attending to your needs..... ;)

Actually, I mostly prefer the DIY route but I try to put business their way when possible. The owner is a very decent chap.
Ah!
Understood.
I've never had anything other than first class service in there - given that I'm not exactly local or regular....
They're a good bunch  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Crumbling Nick on 25 September, 2013, 12:16:27 am
On the way home, slowly caught up with a small group of cyclists on racing bikes. Heavily laden (outdoor work clothes plus free fruit from the owner of today's nature reserve ;D, maybe 7kg), I naturally waited for a downhill before overtaking.

So why, as soon as I had overtaken, did they speed up and hang on to my back wheel? It wasn't a problem for me, but if they had wanted to join my journey, wouldn't it have been a bit more sociable aka human, to chat or somesuch?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 25 September, 2013, 07:59:35 am
Dispite the fog, this morning's ride in was a) hot and b) fast.

Great morning for a ride to work, did it in a record time and had plenty of time for a shower and coffee before starting work :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 25 September, 2013, 01:29:23 pm
i saw a big group of cyclists (100?..) going via greenwich towards dover, a lot of them wearing blue jerseys with british flag. i couldn't read the wording on the jerseys as i was going opposite direction and watching the traffic, but one of the words was "extraordinary". does anyone know about this extraordinary bike ride?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 25 September, 2013, 01:31:07 pm
Personal record on Red Hill this morning. Despite 1.5kg+ of lock and my headphones in the saddlebag.

I didn't notice Feline waving at me as she drove home from work the other way.  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 25 September, 2013, 02:36:30 pm
How heavy are these headphones?   ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonyh on 25 September, 2013, 02:43:44 pm
Quote from: simonp on 25 September, 2013, 01:31:07 pm
I didn't notice Feline

 :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 25 September, 2013, 05:37:18 pm
Yesterday (sorry) evening I was riding fast down hill with heavy traffic when something unseen hit me very hard on my right thigh.
I'm hoping that it wasn't something aimed at me from the traffic heading the other way.
I would like to believe that a conker fell from a tree.  Whatever is was, it hurt.
I didn't go that way this morning and I forgot to check if there is a chestnut tree this evening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 25 September, 2013, 05:48:40 pm
Quote from: zigzag on 25 September, 2013, 01:29:23 pm
i saw a big group of cyclists (100?..) going via greenwich towards dover, a lot of them wearing blue jerseys with british flag. i couldn't read the wording on the jerseys as i was going opposite direction and watching the traffic, but one of the words was "extraordinary". does anyone know about this extraordinary bike ride?

That's funny, cos I saw the same sort of quantity of blokes on bikes all wearing burgundy jerseys heading down via Elephant - turns out it was the Grenadier Guards on their way to Waterloo.
http://www.standard.co.uk/panewsfeeds/david-cameron-sees-off-charity-cyclists-8835904.html (http://www.standard.co.uk/panewsfeeds/david-cameron-sees-off-charity-cyclists-8835904.html)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 26 September, 2013, 09:13:25 am
Slow one in with wife (she has managed to lose a screw from a cleat!) and it was carnage out there. Massive quantities of motor and cycle traffic. Got to the N side of Chelsea bridge and there was a cyclist down with ambulance in attendance. They were moving there arms and there was no great rush so I think it wasn't life threatening! Hope they are alright.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 26 September, 2013, 09:14:51 am
Sunny!

Chilly!

Last commute for this week, which is a good thing as I am aching all over from the COR last night on the Social ride.

Still, surprisingly, fast, though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 26 September, 2013, 10:58:36 am
Wet and horrible, and a bit slow, and nearly knocked off in Bristol by a woman that didn't look properly at a junction.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 26 September, 2013, 12:50:45 pm
I didn't get very far today. I rode down the lane through Radyr golf course and realised I had a puncture.  No problem I think, I should know better than using 23mm tyres at this time of year.  I cross the road to the pavement and remove the wheel from the bike for a quick tube change. Before I removed the tyre from the wheel I observed the reason for the deflation. Yellow stripe of cloth around a third of the tyre where black rubber should be. No point swapping the tube.  So I turned around and pushed the bike back home.  In the shed I had green bike with broken brakes, No.  Orange bike without pedals, chain or sprocket, too much to do. Pink White and Blue bike, just a frame and bits.  So find an old 25mm tyre and put it on Red bikes wheel then off I go to the station.  It would of been quicker to ride all the way but I was in a funny mood.
     
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 26 September, 2013, 04:17:38 pm
Let me tell you about my commute yesterday,

Well in the morning I walked to work, took 40 minutes was quite pleasant if not a little warm my choice of fleece proving to be too thick. Why did I walk I here you say...

Well A nice colleague has loaned me his Cotic Soul to take with me to the Alpkit Big Shakeout, and I wanted to ride it home.

And verrily as the clocked clicked over to 6.20pm I did leave the carpark and cross the dual carriage way and enter the singletrack heading past an incinerator and towards the canal.

There is not a bump in the path between my office and house that has not been jumped off by a madly grinning cyclist, I was soo much fun I'm looking forward to the actual weekend trip.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: diapsaon0 on 26 September, 2013, 06:05:35 pm
Not a commute as such, but took the wretched car to be repaired again and popped the Brompton in tot boot intending to ride back 4 miles or so into Taunton and catch the bus home.  No busses for over an hour, so decided to ride the 12 hilly miles home.  Longest ride I've managed for about 3 years.  Walked up the last bits of a couple of hills, but very pleased to have managed it.  I now know that I can definitely manage without the car.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 26 September, 2013, 06:06:50 pm
Well done :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: diapsaon0 on 26 September, 2013, 09:50:54 pm
Thanks.  Hope I'm not too stiff tomorrow.  May well do it again as car is dead, I have a rehearsal in the evening and there are no busses after 6.05pm :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 26 September, 2013, 11:34:32 pm
That sounds like the way I started cycle commuting. My car broke down and the garage took two weeks to work out what was wrong and fix it, meaning I had to cycle to work. By the time the car was fixed I was so used to commuting by bike I just carried on :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 26 September, 2013, 11:38:51 pm
And another near miss at a roundabout this evening. Sigh.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 27 September, 2013, 08:13:16 am
Last night's commute was spent picking blackberries, again, as I found the mother of all blackberry bushes, with fruit on it the size of ping pong balls!

I picked a good couple of pounds, took them back to the digs, aiming to take them home today.

I left them in the bloody freezer! D'oh!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 27 September, 2013, 08:47:32 am
A commute full of good nature, smiles and courtesy.  :thumbsup:

I'm suspicious.  What's going on?  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 27 September, 2013, 08:48:04 am
Its a bit chilly out! Still, not a bad ride in and I soon warmed up!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 27 September, 2013, 09:46:50 am
Quote from: Basil on 27 September, 2013, 08:47:32 am
A commute full of good nature, smiles and courtesy.  :thumbsup:

I'm suspicious.  What's going on?  ???

Have you accidentally forgotten to leave Waleslandshire?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 27 September, 2013, 11:59:42 am
Quote from: Kim on 27 September, 2013, 09:46:50 am
Quote from: Basil on 27 September, 2013, 08:47:32 am
A commute full of good nature, smiles and courtesy.  :thumbsup:

I'm suspicious.  What's going on?  ???

Have you accidentally forgotten to leave Waleslandshire?
;D

Although, to be honest, I get a lot more "refusal to acknowledge and react" close passes on rural lanes than I do in Brum.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 27 September, 2013, 12:40:00 pm
After the morning's disastrous approach to work I decide to ride home but after noting the strongish head wind I decide to use the return part of the ticket I had bought.  At Cardiff Central I decide that I would ride the rest of the way to Radyr.  In any case I get home quicker by bike the wait for a train I am allowed on is too long.  So I head up the Taff Trail, I am always surprised that I am not passed by faster riders when I use this cycle path, I pass many.  As I am leaving Hailey Park I sense that the rear tyre was getting soft.  I stop at Mellingriffith to change the tube.  I take the tyre off and examine it for the cause. I find it and remember why that tyre was not on the bike.  I found an old hole full of debris that had been picked up on the Taff Trail.  Oh dear hopefully a new tube will get me home.  So I complete the insertion of the tube and find out that my pump will not attach to this cheap tube I had bought after an earlier emergency. So wheel comes back out I put in a conti tube and I was able to inflate.  Thus far I had kept my hands clean but the chain had found it way into a jammed state half off the chainring so I added oily hands to my problems. I arrive home around 10 minutes later that I would have if I caught the train all the way.
     
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 27 September, 2013, 12:51:20 pm
So am I going to get to work this morning.  I thought about the train but my cycling soul rebelled, I must ride.  So daylight comes and I consider the options.
1. Red bike - change tyre to the one I intended to put on yesterday but found a "better" choice.
2. Green bike - unlikely to puncture but I like to have at least one working brake.
Overnight I decided Red bike but this morning I decided Green bike.
So I look at the jammed front brake.  It took me ages of wiggling it back and forth to remove it.  I cleaned the corrosion off the brake boss and replaced it. Now freely springing back and pulling forward, good job.
The back brake needs a screw I do not have but it seems to stay put without.  I wonder when I lost the screw.

I set off half an hour late.  This puts me into lighter traffic particularly past the schools so I arrive 10 minutes late just before my boss.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 30 September, 2013, 08:56:46 am
Weather was nice this morning- too warm for my LS base! Pootle in post coaxing people along a 52 mile charity cycle from London to the Sanger Institute. Nice ride actually and some people put in an amazing effort to complete it! Shame I subsisted on flapjack, brownies and shot blox yesterday, am in need of real food!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 30 September, 2013, 12:03:56 pm
Not today but last Thursday morning...

<sings>

When you slam your car straight into me
That's when I get a load of injuries

Bruises on my hip bone
I get cracks in my ankle
Damaged tendon in my shoulder

Aching all over

Stupid bastard mistook an ugly 6-footer in a bright red sweatshirt for an empty roundabout. At least the bike's not too badly hurt.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 30 September, 2013, 12:08:09 pm
Ouch!

GWS, did this happen in a location where the RSM will be involved?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 30 September, 2013, 12:09:40 pm
Ouch - sorry to here that. :(

Hope you are feeling less achy soon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 30 September, 2013, 12:13:53 pm
'Twas on the A507 outside of Camp. I'm waiting to hear back from the rozzers.

In the meantime, having done a whole morning of "achy-achy-ouch-ohbugger OUCH!" I'm going home (by bike, natch).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 30 September, 2013, 09:08:03 pm
Not good.  GWS.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 01 October, 2013, 09:22:10 am
Thanks for the kind words :-*

There's no chance of a criminal prosecution. Apparently "I'm sorry ossifer, I didn't see him. The sun was in my eyes" is an acceptable alternative to actually checking a junction is clear before driving onto it ::-)

And Oh! The irony. He's insured with Liverpool Victoria. "LV - for careful drivers like you" :D :D :D :D ouch.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 01 October, 2013, 11:27:52 am
Cretins, the lot of them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 01 October, 2013, 12:31:37 pm
Stupid tv weather forecasters. They, the BBC national and BBC Wales presenters, said it was going to rain on my commute. Fortunately I have a secret technique that I will share with you. Look out the windows if you do not see rain it is not raining. So I didn't put on my rain coat and rode to work in comfortable bike wear. 

The problem is not now but in a few weeks time my secret technique will not work.  I will open the curtains and all I will see is darkness.  I can not detect the rain unless it is really heavy. So I will dress as directed by the weather forecasters and have a sweaty ride to work.

   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 01 October, 2013, 12:50:23 pm
I didn't meet a bad driver anywhere. No one passed too close, got inpatient or didn't see me at junctions. And I was on main roads all the way home. A noteworthy journey for it's pleasantness!  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 01 October, 2013, 01:43:16 pm
'Found' a new road (I have ridden it the other way, but found a neat cut through) from my fast route to the office (I have a good 3 or 4 routes depending on time availability and weather - but mornings are almost always using the fast main road route) - it cuts out the worst bit of main road nicely and didn't add on any time (despite being another 1km).  It was nice not to have to brave the national speed limit, single carriageway main road and the familiar gust of wind as a wing mirror passes your elbow at 60.  Not a single car passed me, either direction.  Lovely.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 01 October, 2013, 01:47:02 pm
For the second day in a row, I met a Boris Bus[1] on my commute.  Checking on Wikipedia, they're now being used on routes 24 and 11, and even though I guessed it was route 24 (http://www.tfl.gov.uk/tfl/gettingaround/maps/buses/?r=24), that doesn't touch my commute.  Route 11 (http://www.tfl.gov.uk/tfl/gettingaround/maps/buses/?r=11) does cross my path though, just south of Sloane Square, so I suspect that means they'll be a regular sight now.  I'm surprised that it's taken me this long to see one, since they've apparently been operating on Route 11 since September 21st.

Footnote [1]: Yes, they're not Boris Buses, but it works as a name.  Much as I dislike Boris, he has the perfect first name for this purpose.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 01 October, 2013, 02:20:40 pm
Quote from: TimO on 01 October, 2013, 01:47:02 pm
For the second day in a row, I met a Boris Bus on my commute.

Weird, I saw one on Queenstown Road this morning - I'd never seen one close up before.
It occurred to me that for a vehicle designed to be driven in heavy traffic it has weirdly close-spaced and low-mounted indicators.
I'd have preferred to see a second set of high mounted indicators and brake lights as fitted to conventional double deckers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 01 October, 2013, 02:34:15 pm
TBH I think they are a bit form over function.

I work in the Victoria area, so at the confluence of both routes, plus the 38 on which they were trialled, and still occasionally run.

Having travelled to school in the 80s on the originals, I did try one, particularly the top deck, but found it very cramped.  I wasn't much smaller then.

Tourists seem to like them though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 01 October, 2013, 05:52:25 pm
Quote from: SJSBrompton on 01 October, 2013, 02:34:15 pm
TBH I think they are a bit form over function.

I work in the Victoria area, so at the confluence of both routes, plus the 38 on which they were trialled, and still occasionally run.

Having travelled to school in the 80s on the originals, I did try one, particularly the top deck, but found it very cramped.  I wasn't much smaller then.

Tourists seem to like them though.
Red double decker buses and black taxis are London for tourists.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 01 October, 2013, 08:33:11 pm
Don't forget the telephone boxes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pedaldog. on 01 October, 2013, 09:14:14 pm
Quote from: Feline on 01 October, 2013, 12:50:23 pm
I didn't meet a bad driver anywhere. No one passed too close, got inpatient or didn't see me at junctions. And I was on main roads all the way home. A noteworthy journey for it's pleasantness!  :o

Yebbut! That's cos you was in Valiants Panzer innit?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 02 October, 2013, 04:55:13 am
Not really a commute, but felt like it.  Up before dawn, riding through  pouring rain through central London.  However,  I seem to have misjudged how much time you save when you don't have to wait at red lights.  (I am no longef an RLJ'er, but won't hang around on a deserted street corner for no reason other than a red light glowing at me)  I now have 3/4 to kill before.  No one seems to have told Euston station we are now living in a city that never sleeps.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 02 October, 2013, 08:36:07 am
Is there a word to describe getting so wet that you can wring water out of your clothes?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 02 October, 2013, 09:03:28 am
Quote from: Kim on 01 October, 2013, 08:33:11 pm
Don't forget the telephone boxes.

Particularly the sodding annoying one that blocks the line of sight exiting the Petty France cycle lane onto Buckingham Gate ...... :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 02 October, 2013, 09:11:16 am
Nice ride in, managed to missed the rain! Supposed to pootle but couldn't help but crank up the legs a couple of times!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 02 October, 2013, 09:39:39 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 02 October, 2013, 08:36:07 am
Is there a word to describe getting so wet that you can wring water out of your clothes?

Ratted?

Swamped?

Massively Moist?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Vince on 02 October, 2013, 09:40:04 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 02 October, 2013, 08:36:07 am
Is there a word to describe getting so wet that you can wring water out of your clothes?

Saturated? I was on a ride at the start of the year and wrung out my socks before going into the cafe, to the amusement of the cafe owner.

For me, a fast commute, mainly because I overslept, left late and had a phone conference at 9:30.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Reg.T on 02 October, 2013, 10:06:42 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 02 October, 2013, 08:36:07 am
Is there a word to describe getting so wet that you can wring water out of your clothes?
Slightly Damp (cf. Scenic)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 02 October, 2013, 10:11:19 am
I'm starting to favour 'squelched'.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 02 October, 2013, 10:32:26 am
Stopped by the polis (Traffic Division - big white hat) shouting something from the kerbside at me, on Burdett Road.
Turns out that they're doing security marking, tea, croissants, sit-inna-tipper-truck sessions in the leisure centre by the Cross-rail depot there. Cross-rail also appear to be involved (I think they may've supplied the trucks). Lots of Hi-viz stuff, bidons etc give aways.
But the whole operation was totally concealed from the road  :facepalm:
Were it not for a copper stationed on each side of the road and calling out to cyclists (what mostly couldn't be heard above the noise of the traffic) you'd never know about it.
Anyways - i managed to get the fixer security marked for free :thumbsup:
What was interesting was how many cyclists ignored the polis call to stop, pedalling away furiously with a look of terror on their faces.
Lorra guilt on wheels in east London?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hbunnet on 02 October, 2013, 10:39:57 am
wringing wet
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 02 October, 2013, 12:52:39 pm
I normally call myself a drowned rat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Speshact on 02 October, 2013, 04:34:34 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 02 October, 2013, 08:36:07 am
Is there a word to describe getting so wet that you can wring water out of your clothes?
capeless  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 02 October, 2013, 06:24:43 pm
Mancunian.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 October, 2013, 10:24:51 pm
I believe The Beautiful South know a song about that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 03 October, 2013, 08:44:14 am
Is it winter yet? I want winter. It will free the roads of the fair weather cyclists that endanger themselves and others by their lack of cycle sense. Otherwise, nice weather this morning (not sure it will be this afternoon!) and had a nice spin in!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 03 October, 2013, 09:37:21 am
Quote from: Jurek on 02 October, 2013, 10:32:26 am
Stopped by the polis (Traffic Division - big white hat) shouting something from the kerbside at me, on Burdett Road.
Turns out that they're doing security marking, tea, croissants, sit-inna-tipper-truck sessions in the leisure centre by the Cross-rail depot there. Cross-rail also appear to be involved (I think they may've supplied the trucks). Lots of Hi-viz stuff, bidons etc give aways.

I've still never done this. I'm reluctant to leave my bike lying around whilst I'm trying out the lorry. However, if anyone here does get an opportunity to do it, can you please, please, please sit in the seat and then ask the person supervising it to adjust all the mirrors to suit your height and driving position. Because this is what I intend to do when I get a chance.
I know someone who drives lorries regularly and he's told me that if the mirrors are properly adjusted you don't have any blind spots around the cab when the vehicle's stationary and you're sitting lined up straight. I'm not convinced about the front left in front of the "A" pillar, but it sort of makes sense.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Reg.T on 03 October, 2013, 10:06:10 am
I guess that'll depend on whether (and where) any extra blind-spot mirrors are fitted, e.g.
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3ZfK1P77T4M/T3G5-0hdiZI/AAAAAAAAAGI/LUCeatavDUM/s400/crossrail-vehicle-safety-standards-compliance-05.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 03 October, 2013, 10:22:03 am
Quote from: alexb on 03 October, 2013, 09:37:21 am
I know someone who drives lorries regularly and he's told me that if the mirrors are properly adjusted you don't have any blind spots around the cab when the vehicle's stationary and you're sitting lined up straight.
A long-standing friend who is both a keen cyclist and driver of humungous artics says modern lorries don't have blind spots* - they just have drivers who don't look.


* I feel this may not be strictly true, but I know what he means.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 03 October, 2013, 12:04:58 pm
Quote from: alexb on 03 October, 2013, 09:37:21 am
Quote from: Jurek on 02 October, 2013, 10:32:26 am
Stopped by the polis (Traffic Division - big white hat) shouting something from the kerbside at me, on Burdett Road.
Turns out that they're doing security marking, tea, croissants, sit-inna-tipper-truck sessions in the leisure centre by the Cross-rail depot there. Cross-rail also appear to be involved (I think they may've supplied the trucks). Lots of Hi-viz stuff, bidons etc give aways.

I've still never done this. I'm reluctant to leave my bike lying around whilst I'm trying out the lorry. However, if anyone here does get an opportunity to do it, can you please, please, please sit in the seat and then ask the person supervising it to adjust all the mirrors to suit your height and driving position. Because this is what I intend to do when I get a chance.
I know someone who drives lorries regularly and he's told me that if the mirrors are properly adjusted you don't have any blind spots around the cab when the vehicle's stationary and you're sitting lined up straight. I'm not convinced about the front left in front of the "A" pillar, but it sort of makes sense.

As someone who is about to relinquish his Class 1 LGV licence next week (significant birthday forthcoming, and I'm not re-newing the licence as it costs, and I'm unlikely to ever need it again.) I can tell you that with sufficient mirrors, correctly adjusted you can see more of the vehicle than you can in any car I have ever driven.

NB Gus' comment about drivers not looking.
I'll only add that I am sooooo glad to no longer be driving artics, mostly because of the abject numptiness I have witnessed coming from cyclists, the numbers of whom have increased enormously since the last time I drove one, circa 2006.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 03 October, 2013, 03:47:18 pm
Yesterday, but I've been re-mulling it in the light of a few other discussions.

So I'm cycling down Blackfriars Road towards the lights with Union St outside Southwark Station. I'm pretty much taking the middle of the inside lane at a merry old pace when a taxi slides up besides me, too close for comfort, but black cab intimacy is not exactly unusual. He's indicating left but hey, I'm in the way. OK, at this point I'm familiar with the considerate ways of the London cabbie and ponder the relative benefits of discretion versus valour but I was feeling a little bloody minded so I stand (or rather ride) my ground but I also prepared for the inevitable. Which, of course, inevitable it was, as he promptly attempted the left-hook. As I was anticipating it, we both went around into Union Street. Had I kept going forward there was no doubt in my mind that he would have simply driven over me.

I don't normally get into it with drivers. Nothing good comes of it in my experience, but feeling calm and unfeasibly reasonable about the entire thing, I decided to have a word with him. So at the next lights I ride up beside him and tap on the window and he rolls it down. This is pretty much the conversation we had, none of it particularly heated. I tried to be perfectly calm and agreeable.

Quote
"You did see me there, didn't you? You could have knocked me off."

"I was indicating. I have a witness," he nods to the fare in the back who just looks like she'd rather be elsewhere (considering his driving skills, that wasn't a bad idea).

"Look, I'm really not trying to start an argument. But come on, wouldn't it have been better for us both if you'd been courteous enough to slow down for a moment. I'm sure you'd not like someone in your family to be injured or killed like that."

"I'd run over someone like you."

"What do you mean, like me?"

"Cyclists. Knocking one of you lot off would make my day."

At that point, I figured I was just going to get angry so I let him go. To be honest, I feel sorry for people like that. Five minutes later, I was happily cycling along, he'll still be carrying that toxic attitude for the rest of his undoubtedly shitty life.

But I'm kind of frustrated in retrospect knowing that someone with that attitude (and it wasn't just words, he would have run me over) is actually being paid to drive and there's nothing I can do about it. In any other context, say someone was sitting there twiddling a knife and telling people he wanted to stab someone, we'd reasonably be alarmed enough to take action. In a car, it's seems perfectly fine to expound such homicidal fantasies. I didn't take his number and I doubt any complaint would achieve any outcome.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 03 October, 2013, 04:12:13 pm
Sheesh. I'm not sure I would have been able to control myself at that point and not simply banged his mirror off and cycled off into the distance. And I don't do that sort of thing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 03 October, 2013, 04:36:48 pm
Some countries have psychological testing as part of the driving licence application. I doubt whether if it's actually designed to catch that sort of attitude, but it could be.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 03 October, 2013, 05:12:48 pm
Quote from: ian on 03 October, 2013, 03:47:18 pm
Yesterday, but I've been re-mulling it in the light of a few other discussions.

So I'm cycling down Blackfriars Road towards the lights with Union St outside Southwark Station. I'm pretty much taking the middle of the inside lane at a merry old pace when a taxi slides up besides me, too close for comfort, but black cab intimacy is not exactly unusual. He's indicating left but hey, I'm in the way. OK, at this point I'm familiar with the considerate ways of the London cabbie and ponder the relative benefits of discretion versus valour but I was feeling a little bloody minded so I stand (or rather ride) my ground but I also prepared for the inevitable. Which, of course, inevitable it was, as he promptly attempted the left-hook. As I was anticipating it, we both went around into Union Street. Had I kept going forward there was no doubt in my mind that he would have simply driven over me.

I don't normally get into it with drivers. Nothing good comes of it in my experience, but feeling calm and unfeasibly reasonable about the entire thing, I decided to have a word with him. So at the next lights I ride up beside him and tap on the window and he rolls it down. This is pretty much the conversation we had, none of it particularly heated. I tried to be perfectly calm and agreeable.

Quote
"You did see me there, didn't you? You could have knocked me off."

"I was indicating. I have a witness," he nods to the fare in the back who just looks like she'd rather be elsewhere (considering his driving skills, that wasn't a bad idea).

"Look, I'm really not trying to start an argument. But come on, wouldn't it have been better for us both if you'd been courteous enough to slow down for a moment. I'm sure you'd not like someone in your family to be injured or killed like that."

"I'd run over someone like you."

"What do you mean, like me?"

"Cyclists. Knocking one of you lot off would make my day."

At that point, I figured I was just going to get angry so I let him go. To be honest, I feel sorry for people like that. Five minutes later, I was happily cycling along, he'll still be carrying that toxic attitude for the rest of his undoubtedly shitty life.

But I'm kind of frustrated in retrospect knowing that someone with that attitude (and it wasn't just words, he would have run me over) is actually being paid to drive and there's nothing I can do about it. In any other context, say someone was sitting there twiddling a knife and telling people he wanted to stab someone, we'd reasonably be alarmed enough to take action. In a car, it's seems perfectly fine to expound such homicidal fantasies. I didn't take his number and I doubt any complaint would achieve any outcome.

Sympathies, fortunately that sort of murderous intent is actually fairly uncommon.

And, I know I tend to get shot down every time I say this, but I am personally certain that the ability of people to say things like that is reinforced by the stories of people saying things like that getting their come-uppance on Twitter etc. Some people just hear the original "I'd like to kill cyclists" and something inside them says, "yeah". Repetition makes it acceptable in their misguided world.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jsabine on 03 October, 2013, 06:17:30 pm
Quote from: alexb on 03 October, 2013, 09:37:21 am
Quote from: Jurek on 02 October, 2013, 10:32:26 am
Stopped by the polis (Traffic Division - big white hat) shouting something from the kerbside at me, on Burdett Road.
Turns out that they're doing security marking, tea, croissants, sit-inna-tipper-truck sessions in the leisure centre by the Cross-rail depot there. Cross-rail also appear to be involved (I think they may've supplied the trucks). Lots of Hi-viz stuff, bidons etc give aways.

I've still never done this. I'm reluctant to leave my bike lying around whilst I'm trying out the lorry. However, if anyone here does get an opportunity to do it, can you please, please, please sit in the seat and then ask the person supervising it to adjust all the mirrors to suit your height and driving position. Because this is what I intend to do when I get a chance.
I know someone who drives lorries regularly and he's told me that if the mirrors are properly adjusted you don't have any blind spots around the cab when the vehicle's stationary and you're sitting lined up straight. I'm not convinced about the front left in front of the "A" pillar, but it sort of makes sense.

When I did it a little while ago, there were enough polis around that I didn't have any worries about my bike ... (In fact, it never got left 'lying around' - I handed it to a policeman who waited till I'd got into the driver's seat, then wheeled it to the back of the lorry, then up the nearside, then round to the front, so I could see exactly how easy *my bike* was to miss.)

The mirrors were big enough and I am typical-enough bloke-size that I didn't feel the need to ask for any adjustment. Even without it, I'd be inclined to agree with your friend and with Jurek: there was never any point on my bike's journey up the sides of the truck and round the front where I couldn't see it.

That is, I could see it if I was looking. There were plenty of spots where my bike, and the six-foot copper in a hi-vi waistcoat pushing it, were very difficult to see with a casual glance in the right mirror, and completely invisible if I was looking either at the road or at any of the other six or eight mirrors.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimC on 03 October, 2013, 06:23:20 pm
Quote from: ian on 03 October, 2013, 03:47:18 pm
Yesterday, but I've been re-mulling it in the light of a few other discussions.

So I'm cycling down Blackfriars Road towards the lights with Union St outside Southwark Station. I'm pretty much taking the middle of the inside lane at a merry old pace when a taxi slides up besides me, too close for comfort, but black cab intimacy is not exactly unusual. He's indicating left but hey, I'm in the way. OK, at this point I'm familiar with the considerate ways of the London cabbie and ponder the relative benefits of discretion versus valour but I was feeling a little bloody minded so I stand (or rather ride) my ground but I also prepared for the inevitable. Which, of course, inevitable it was, as he promptly attempted the left-hook. As I was anticipating it, we both went around into Union Street. Had I kept going forward there was no doubt in my mind that he would have simply driven over me.

I don't normally get into it with drivers. Nothing good comes of it in my experience, but feeling calm and unfeasibly reasonable about the entire thing, I decided to have a word with him. So at the next lights I ride up beside him and tap on the window and he rolls it down. This is pretty much the conversation we had, none of it particularly heated. I tried to be perfectly calm and agreeable.

Quote
"You did see me there, didn't you? You could have knocked me off."

"I was indicating. I have a witness," he nods to the fare in the back who just looks like she'd rather be elsewhere (considering his driving skills, that wasn't a bad idea).

"Look, I'm really not trying to start an argument. But come on, wouldn't it have been better for us both if you'd been courteous enough to slow down for a moment. I'm sure you'd not like someone in your family to be injured or killed like that."

"I'd run over someone like you."

"What do you mean, like me?"

"Cyclists. Knocking one of you lot off would make my day."

At that point, I figured I was just going to get angry so I let him go. To be honest, I feel sorry for people like that. Five minutes later, I was happily cycling along, he'll still be carrying that toxic attitude for the rest of his undoubtedly shitty life.

But I'm kind of frustrated in retrospect knowing that someone with that attitude (and it wasn't just words, he would have run me over) is actually being paid to drive and there's nothing I can do about it. In any other context, say someone was sitting there twiddling a knife and telling people he wanted to stab someone, we'd reasonably be alarmed enough to take action. In a car, it's seems perfectly fine to expound such homicidal fantasies. I didn't take his number and I doubt any complaint would achieve any outcome.

Perhaps it's time to start carrying some form of instant-justice dispenser. Like an AK-47.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 03 October, 2013, 06:27:16 pm
Do London Taxis lock their doors while moving? If not I would have been tempted to open the door and ask his fare if he fancied being driven by such an agressive, threatening man, then left the door open and ridden off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 October, 2013, 06:32:25 pm
Yes, the doors are locked when in motion.

And no, no complaint would gain any action, whether to the complacent PCO, or the thoroughly corrupt Met.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 03 October, 2013, 08:56:16 pm
Well, despite the shroud-waving by the weather forecasters the work-bound and home-bound trips were in the dry and it was not much windier than usual. 

The road-chutney season has opened. Hey ho.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 04 October, 2013, 08:41:21 am
I think, Ian, you'd made a mistake even talking to them. Their driving had already demonstrated that they were running on half of one brain cell; and that was busy reading the Daily Mail.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 04 October, 2013, 09:45:26 am
Quote from: clarion on 03 October, 2013, 06:32:25 pm
....or the thoroughly corrupt Met.

??

Had a few incidents this week myself, including another taxi doing the "I am u-turning in front of you, WTF are you gonna do about it" stare.
Some @rsehole in a corsa got p1ssed off at me for going in front of him at 2 sets of lights into the ASL, so a "punishment pass" was in order there.

Maybe I have been unlucky recently, but almost sense that commuting is back to normal after a more forgiving summer's driving.  Also feel quite a lot more nervous after many stories of other tragedies, this is possibly a good thing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 October, 2013, 09:54:47 am
The Met have form in allowing cabbies a free pass.  May just be freemasonry; may be brown envelopes - I don't know.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 04 October, 2013, 10:01:57 am
Quote from: clarion on 04 October, 2013, 09:54:47 am
The Met have form in allowing cabbies a free pass.  May just be freemasonry; may be brown envelopes - I don't know.
Do you think that is still as prevalent as it once may've been?
Given that the Met no longer run the PCO, that job having been given to TfL.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 04 October, 2013, 10:09:42 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 04 October, 2013, 08:41:21 am
I think, Ian, you'd made a mistake even talking to them. Their driving had already demonstrated that they were running on half of one brain cell; and that was busy reading the Daily Mail.

I wouldn't normally, but as it seemed I was turning the corner with him whether I wanted to or not. Had I been angry I would have let it go, like I say, yelling at motorists is a highway to nowhere. Even after the discussion I pretty much wrote it off as one of those things. It's only thinking about it later, reading the threads in here, that it became more than a little chilling. He wasn't just mouthing off, he was willing to run me over. He couldn't have known I wouldn't go straight on. And after that, given what he said and the way he said it, he genuinely seemed to want to hurt someone.

There's no other context in my life where I meet people who even express a wish to hurt or kill anyone.

I suppose also there's the grim realisation that if he had hit me there's 101 ready excuses along the lines 'he didn't see me' or 'I came from nowhere' and despite the clear intent of his act, he'd probably not a get a legal slap for injuring or killing me.

And then, there's the frustration of knowing that this person is out there with those ideas in his head and a willingness to follow through, and there being nothing I can really do. I may write to the PCO/TfL but it seems a tad useless. Taxi driver behaves like a dick, film at eleven.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 October, 2013, 10:18:19 am
Given the incident off Oxford Street a short while back, and my own experiences, it seems to continue.  Cabbies do what they do because they know they can get away with it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 04 October, 2013, 01:13:33 pm
Quote from: clarion on 04 October, 2013, 10:18:19 am
Given the incident off Oxford Street a short while back, and my own experiences, it seems to continue.  Cabbies do what they do because they know they can get away with it.

Sweeping generalisation of the week
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 04 October, 2013, 01:28:46 pm
Quote from: ian on 03 October, 2013, 03:47:18 pm
Yesterday, but I've been re-mulling it in the light of a few other discussions.

So I'm cycling down Blackfriars Road towards the lights with Union St outside Southwark Station. I'm pretty much taking the middle of the inside lane at a merry old pace when a taxi slides up besides me, too close for comfort, but black cab intimacy is not exactly unusual. He's indicating left but hey, I'm in the way. OK, at this point I'm familiar with the considerate ways of the London cabbie and ponder the relative benefits of discretion versus valour but I was feeling a little bloody minded so I stand (or rather ride) my ground but I also prepared for the inevitable. Which, of course, inevitable it was, as he promptly attempted the left-hook. As I was anticipating it, we both went around into Union Street. Had I kept going forward there was no doubt in my mind that he would have simply driven over me.

I don't normally get into it with drivers. Nothing good comes of it in my experience, but feeling calm and unfeasibly reasonable about the entire thing, I decided to have a word with him. So at the next lights I ride up beside him and tap on the window and he rolls it down. This is pretty much the conversation we had, none of it particularly heated. I tried to be perfectly calm and agreeable.

Quote
"You did see me there, didn't you? You could have knocked me off."

"I was indicating. I have a witness," he nods to the fare in the back who just looks like she'd rather be elsewhere (considering his driving skills, that wasn't a bad idea).

"Look, I'm really not trying to start an argument. But come on, wouldn't it have been better for us both if you'd been courteous enough to slow down for a moment. I'm sure you'd not like someone in your family to be injured or killed like that."

"I'd run over someone like you."

"What do you mean, like me?"

"Cyclists. Knocking one of you lot off would make my day."

At that point, I figured I was just going to get angry so I let him go. To be honest, I feel sorry for people like that. Five minutes later, I was happily cycling along, he'll still be carrying that toxic attitude for the rest of his undoubtedly shitty life.

But I'm kind of frustrated in retrospect knowing that someone with that attitude (and it wasn't just words, he would have run me over) is actually being paid to drive and there's nothing I can do about it. In any other context, say someone was sitting there twiddling a knife and telling people he wanted to stab someone, we'd reasonably be alarmed enough to take action. In a car, it's seems perfectly fine to expound such homicidal fantasies. I didn't take his number and I doubt any complaint would achieve any outcome.


Sorry to read this ianskers, and you showed far more restraint than I would have.

After his "Knocking one of you lot off would make my day", I suppose you could have said "Now I've got a witness" indicating the lady in the back.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: red marley on 04 October, 2013, 05:00:32 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 04 October, 2013, 10:01:57 am
Given that the Met no longer run the PCO, that job having been given to TfL.

It's ironic that that great big building on stilts where this incident occurred is TFL's HQ.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 04 October, 2013, 05:14:44 pm
Ironic indeed.
Though if I'm not mistaken the PCO still operates out of Penton Street.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 04 October, 2013, 05:15:57 pm
It was very rainy.

I waited for it to stop.

It started again about 30 seconds after I set off.

I lost count of the nasty close passes on the B1228.  And the surface is as bad as ever.

Got there rather late because of the waiting.

Very busy day... but as I was saying 'see you in a fortnight' for the second time (before a further three things happened to delay the start of the weekend) I noticed... blue skies!  An hour and three more problems-solved-and-jobs done later I saw Actual Sunshine out the window and went to change back into the still distinctly damp cycling kit.

Set off.

30 seconds later... the heavens opened.

Road surface even worse in the other direction.

Fast, close pass after fast close pass.

Bah.

Survived :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Bairn Again on 07 October, 2013, 10:32:51 am
The day that some thought might never happen is almost here

http://www.edinburgh.gov.uk/news/article/1343/tram_testing_to_begin_between_gogar_and_edinburgh_park

As of tomorrow I will have to look both ways when riding to work.   :)
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 07 October, 2013, 10:46:38 am
First ride in since armfail.

Rode the Green Machine, which is now in its proto-TD spec and all was good - to my surprise, the faux-Ergon grips that I bought from Evans ages ago are actually more comfortable than the Real Ergons which I've got on the Surly, so I think I'll leave them on.

Managed the rooty, off-road climb through the University on 58", so I'll call that a win.

Hoping for a relatively stress-free ride home since I'm leaving just after lunch for a physioterrorist appointment (hence no school traffic)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 07 October, 2013, 10:54:02 am
Quote from: , on 07 October, 2013, 10:32:51 am
The day that some thought might never happen is almost here

http://www.edinburgh.gov.uk/news/article/1343/tram_testing_to_begin_between_gogar_and_edinburgh_park

As of tomorrow I will have to look both ways when riding to work.   :)
 

Nice to see (I like trams), but comparing it with Sheffield Supertram it appears to have cost nearly twice as much (in 2013 values) and doesn't quite cover half the distance. Where did the money go?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 07 October, 2013, 11:19:46 am
Quote from: mcshroom on 07 October, 2013, 10:54:02 am
Quote from: , on 07 October, 2013, 10:32:51 am
The day that some thought might never happen is almost here

http://www.edinburgh.gov.uk/news/article/1343/tram_testing_to_begin_between_gogar_and_edinburgh_park

As of tomorrow I will have to look both ways when riding to work.   :)
 

Nice to see (I like trams), but comparing it with Sheffield Supertram it appears to have cost nearly twice as much (in 2013 values) and doesn't quite cover half the distance. Where did the money go?

There is a story there that many residents of Edinburgh would like to see fully explored. Le Mans has a similar tram network system. It's enormous, goes everywhere, caused utter chaos when it was being installed, but seems to work. It links far flung parts of the town where there is adequate parking (like the hospital) with the centre of town and you glide in super quick on largely traffic-free routes. Somehow I suspect Edinburgh's system is more compromised...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Reg.T on 07 October, 2013, 11:23:26 am
Interesting moment on the way in this morning, here:
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/56557612/BittonCPTurn.JPG)

I arrive from the left, and take the hairpin to the left and up the ramp to the railway path at Bitton. I've been aware that I tend to take the turn very slowly, which makes it harder to get up the ramp, especially on fixed. So I've been trying to get faster, including taking the right of the lane prior to the turn.

I maybe slightly overdid it this morning, and the back wheel slid out as I tried to power round. Fortunately my left crank was down at that moment, and I think the resultant pedal-strike on the ground is what kept me from falling off.

(Note, I think it was slide followed by strike, rather than strike causing skid, but it all happened rather quickly)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 07 October, 2013, 11:54:19 am
I rode in this morning with contact lenses in.

Main thing that's improved is peripheral vision, particularly how much easier looking over my shoulder was.

I'll have to take them out before I ride home, as I'm limited to 8h today. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 07 October, 2013, 12:20:04 pm
Quote from: alexb on 07 October, 2013, 11:19:46 am
Quote from: mcshroom on 07 October, 2013, 10:54:02 am
Quote from: , on 07 October, 2013, 10:32:51 am
The day that some thought might never happen is almost here

http://www.edinburgh.gov.uk/news/article/1343/tram_testing_to_begin_between_gogar_and_edinburgh_park

As of tomorrow I will have to look both ways when riding to work.   :)
 

Nice to see (I like trams), but comparing it with Sheffield Supertram it appears to have cost nearly twice as much (in 2013 values) and doesn't quite cover half the distance. Where did the money go?

There is a story there that many residents of Edinburgh would like to see fully explored. Le Mans has a similar tram network system. It's enormous, goes everywhere, caused utter chaos when it was being installed, but seems to work. It links far flung parts of the town where there is adequate parking (like the hospital) with the centre of town and you glide in super quick on largely traffic-free routes. Somehow I suspect Edinburgh's system is more compromised...

https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=47519.0
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 07 October, 2013, 12:47:38 pm
Quote from: simonp on 07 October, 2013, 11:54:19 am
I rode in this morning with contact lenses in.

Main thing that's improved is peripheral vision, particularly how much easier looking over my shoulder was.

Agree 100%. Just wait till it rains- You can still see.  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 07 October, 2013, 12:55:28 pm
Quote from: fboab on 07 October, 2013, 12:47:38 pm
Quote from: simonp on 07 October, 2013, 11:54:19 am
I rode in this morning with contact lenses in.

Main thing that's improved is peripheral vision, particularly how much easier looking over my shoulder was.

Agree 100%. Just wait till it rains- You can still see.  :o

I was hoping this morning would be a good test. Unfortunately the fog had cleared before I got onto Red Hill so I didn't learn too much.

No doubt it'll rain tomorrow, when I can't use them (I have a trial pack of lenses, and have only two pairs left, and need to use one pair for my bike lesson on Wednesday, and one pair for a follow-up visit at the optician's on Thursday, they want me to turn up with them in).

These are daily disposables. I've decided they aren't going to work for me, as if I cycle into work with them in, then if I have a shower I have to discard them. Then a new pair for cycling home. So I'm going to get them to give me some extended wear ones, which will also work a lot better on Audax rides if I can keep them in overnight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 07 October, 2013, 01:20:06 pm
Quote from: simonp on 07 October, 2013, 12:55:28 pm
if I cycle into work with them in, then if I have a shower I have to discard them

Really?
I've never heard that. Sounds like bollox to make you buy more.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 07 October, 2013, 01:26:56 pm
Quote from: fboab on 07 October, 2013, 01:20:06 pm
Quote from: simonp on 07 October, 2013, 12:55:28 pm
if I cycle into work with them in, then if I have a shower I have to discard them

Really?
I've never heard that. Sounds like bollox to make you buy more.

You're not meant to shower with contacts in, and you're not supplied with any means to store and disinfect daily lenses if you take them out temporarily.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 07 October, 2013, 02:44:06 pm
Quote from: simonp on 07 October, 2013, 01:26:56 pm
Quote from: fboab on 07 October, 2013, 01:20:06 pm
Quote from: simonp on 07 October, 2013, 12:55:28 pm
if I cycle into work with them in, then if I have a shower I have to discard them

Really?
I've never heard that. Sounds like bollox to make you buy more.

You're not meant to shower with contacts in, and you're not supplied with any means to store and disinfect daily lenses if you take them out temporarily.

Then I've been doing it wrong for a couple of decades now. I've yet to die or lose an eyeball. I think you'll be fine leaving them in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 07 October, 2013, 03:03:00 pm
Quote from: ian on 07 October, 2013, 02:44:06 pm
Quote from: simonp on 07 October, 2013, 01:26:56 pm
Quote from: fboab on 07 October, 2013, 01:20:06 pm
Quote from: simonp on 07 October, 2013, 12:55:28 pm
if I cycle into work with them in, then if I have a shower I have to discard them

Really?
I've never heard that. Sounds like bollox to make you buy more.

You're not meant to shower with contacts in, and you're not supplied with any means to store and disinfect daily lenses if you take them out temporarily.

Then I've been doing it wrong for a couple of decades now. I've yet to die or lose an eyeball. I think you'll be fine leaving them in.
Ditto (though only for 8 years).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 07 October, 2013, 03:07:46 pm
You shouldn't swim with them in (unless wearing a face mask) but showering is fine.

Can't get on with them myself (dry eyes) but I have no doubt they are safer when riding in rain or fog (compared to glasses).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 07 October, 2013, 03:08:40 pm
I was going to talk about my commute but then I was very confused by this contact lens talk. I wore daily disposables for yeeaaars before I got my eyes lasered. I showered in them all the time, never had any issues or even knew it WAS an issue!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 07 October, 2013, 03:13:11 pm
I wear them swimming. But then, I take all kinds of risks with my health. I don't swill my nasal passages with Milton after swimming, either.
It's a risk:hassle calculation you need to do for yourself. I think the risk of getting anything from even Thetford Pool is sufficiently low I'll take the chance, especially as I can't see my own hands let alone recognise my own children without them, and swimming in glasses is not practical.

Quote from: simonp on 07 October, 2013, 01:26:56 pm
You're not meant to shower with contacts in, and you're not supplied with any means to store and disinfect daily lenses if you take them out temporarily.
You can get storage/travel cases & solutions from your local chemist. There's nothing particularly magic about daily disposables to stop you from doing this.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 07 October, 2013, 03:26:18 pm
For swimming, I have goggles with lenses in.

The risk of AK is very low, even in SCL wearers, it's about 1 in 50,000 per year (1 in a million for non-CL wearers). 90% of SCL wearers infected had ignored at least one aspect of safety advice.

The potential for leaving extended wear lenses in overnight on a 600 attracts me to them more than anything else, though this must increase the associated risk.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 07 October, 2013, 04:22:30 pm
Well, I shower in mine after swimming*. I'm evidently crazier than a coke-snorting rocket pilot headbutting a damaged WWII bomb.

*in water-tight goggles, of course. Crap is falling into your eyes all the time even when you're not sticking your fingers in there, a splash of what is mostly dilute bleach isn't going to kill you.

(I don't get on with dailies though. They're convenient but I never find them comfortable for all day wear. I use monthlies. Far more substantial and easier to handle and it only takes several seconds to clean them in an evening.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 07 October, 2013, 04:40:15 pm
Nice ride home after some not-so-nice physio on my arm.

Tried to channel the Pinarello-riding-dentist vibe thanks to my nice new Garmin Edge 800, but manage to fail miserably 'cos I was riding a fixed-gear Genesis mountain bike. I'll live with that.

No contact lenses were involved - I wear glasses.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: recumbentim on 07 October, 2013, 06:10:04 pm
Mad day . Going in in the dark with a warm 15° I thought I was on a long audax in Europe in the evening , hell it's October , could be skiing soon.
 The run home was madder. Had a van swap during the day and left yes my cycling stuff.
 So did the 17 miles in cut off over trousers as shorts and work boots. They are not good on a recumbent with spd,s.#sore ankles.


 


 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 07 October, 2013, 06:18:39 pm
Quote from: fboab on 07 October, 2013, 03:13:11 pm
But then, I take all kinds of risks with my health.

Ohh... this is true! She even eats out of date food!

* Find your Safe Place Chris, find your Safe Place... *

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 07 October, 2013, 06:33:31 pm
Quote from: simonp on 07 October, 2013, 01:26:56 pm
Quote from: fboab on 07 October, 2013, 01:20:06 pm
Quote from: simonp on 07 October, 2013, 12:55:28 pm
if I cycle into work with them in, then if I have a shower I have to discard them

Really?
I've never heard that. Sounds like bollox to make you buy more.

You're not meant to shower with contacts in, and you're not supplied with any means to store and disinfect daily lenses if you take them out temporarily.


As others have said, don't worry for a second about showering - I think the advice against showers if for reusable ones.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 08 October, 2013, 07:49:49 am
The ride in today was lovely.  It was on the nice side of fresh, temp wise, no real idiot motorists and I rode through the sunrise.

Oh and I got to wear my Walz cap for the first time.  Why have I not had one of these before? It is brilliant, keeps my head and ears warm and doesn't cause the hearing aid to feedback, full of win, if you ask me :) 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rafletcher on 08 October, 2013, 09:39:19 am
Quote from: ian on 07 October, 2013, 04:22:30 pm

(I don't get on with dailies though. They're convenient but I never find them comfortable for all day wear. I use monthlies. Far more substantial and easier to handle and it only takes several seconds to clean them in an evening.)

I think that depends on the prescription. I need Torics, and the dailies I'm using now are pretty substantial - but then I'm pretty short sighted!  I actually need multi-focal ones but tried and failed with them, so it's back to glasses for "normal", and the slightly off-spec dailies for cycling (it's the close reading part I lose with them).

And you can swim in contacts - but if you want to say as a sport, or play rugby, it's recommended to get ones with a larger diameter that cover more of, and "cling" more tightly to the eye. Not that great for extended use as it cuts down oxygen transmission.  As do even soft lenses like the ones I neeed (relatively thick). I used to wear mine 11 hours a day, but after 15 years of that, the capilliaries in my eye started to grow into the cornea to make hp for the lack of oxygen caused by the lenses, and I was advised to reduce my wearing time  :-\  That would be my concern with extended wear lenses, although a reputable prescriber should discuss the issues.

I'll maybe go back to this lot http://www.thecontactlenspractice.co.uk/ as they're pretty clued up on all the alternatives.  Highly recommended (by me!)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 08 October, 2013, 09:40:30 am
I had a nice ride in too. The roads were happy and the weather was nice. Enjoy it whilst it lasts! ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 08 October, 2013, 09:46:59 am
Came through town this morning, rather than through the University, just for the hell of it.

I wonder if there are any roads hereabouts that the council aren't digging up  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 08 October, 2013, 11:00:32 am
Not one but two attempts on my life this morning in the three miles between my house and the station.

First, as I was going left round a blind bend, I encountered a car coming the other way on my side of the road (taking the "racing line" through the bend). The driver was going rather too fast for the circumstances and had to swerve sharply to avoid me.

Second was about half a mile further on, at the crossing over the main road. Lights changed, van approaching from my right thought about going through on the cusp of amber/red but I nosed my wheel out slightly to discourage him and he stopped. I started crossing, then from the left a car came haring straight through the crossing at, I would estimate, somewhat above the 40 limit. No two ways about it, the lights were properly red when he crossed the line.

I stopped and made a note of his registration, and the reg of the van that stopped (as a witness), and I'm weighing up whether to report it to the police or not. I probably will but strongly suspect they won't act on it. I don't know if there's any cctv at the crossing or nearby.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Christophe on 08 October, 2013, 12:38:37 pm
Trains up the duff this morning so cycled the 80km from Mid Essex to central London. First 55km along the beautiful Essex lanes before reaching Epping then down hill all the way to work at Liverpool Street.

The weather was glorious this morning, apparently the last good weather this year.

Added bonus was saying good morning to a guy in a pith helmet riding a penny at High Easter, could have been the guy from Southend who rode round the world on one. ( Joff Summerfield??)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CJBrewer on 08 October, 2013, 12:49:03 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 08 October, 2013, 11:00:32 am
Not one but two attempts on my life this morning in the three miles between my house and the station.

First, as I was going left round a blind bend, I encountered a car coming the other way on my side of the road (taking the "racing line" through the bend). The driver was going rather too fast for the circumstances and had to swerve sharply to avoid me.

Second was about half a mile further on, at the crossing over the main road. Lights changed, van approaching from my right thought about going through on the cusp of amber/red but I nosed my wheel out slightly to discourage him and he stopped. I started crossing, then from the left a car came haring straight through the crossing at, I would estimate, somewhat above the 40 limit. No two ways about it, the lights were properly red when he crossed the line.

I stopped and made a note of his registration, and the reg of the van that stopped (as a witness), and I'm weighing up whether to report it to the police or not. I probably will but strongly suspect they won't act on it. I don't know if there's any cctv at the crossing or nearby.

Worth it. Around here in Sussex we have "Operation Crackdown" and if they get a report of poor driving when someone's got prior record they can write or visit to have a word...

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 08 October, 2013, 01:24:19 pm
Quote from: Christophe on 08 October, 2013, 12:38:37 pm
Added bonus was saying good morning to a guy in a pith helmet riding a penny at High Easter, could have been the guy from Southend who rode round the world on one. ( Joff Summerfield??)

Sounds very much like Joff, though these days his workshop is based at Trinity Buoy Wharf.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 08 October, 2013, 01:39:59 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 08 October, 2013, 11:00:32 am
Not one but two attempts on my life this morning in the three miles between my house and the station.

First, as I was going left round a blind bend, I encountered a car coming the other way on my side of the road (taking the "racing line" through the bend). The driver was going rather too fast for the circumstances and had to swerve sharply to avoid me.

Second was about half a mile further on, at the crossing over the main road. Lights changed, van approaching from my right thought about going through on the cusp of amber/red but I nosed my wheel out slightly to discourage him and he stopped. I started crossing, then from the left a car came haring straight through the crossing at, I would estimate, somewhat above the 40 limit. No two ways about it, the lights were properly red when he crossed the line.

I stopped and made a note of his registration, and the reg of the van that stopped (as a witness), and I'm weighing up whether to report it to the police or not. I probably will but strongly suspect they won't act on it. I don't know if there's any cctv at the crossing or nearby.

Got to be worth doing, don't hold your breath for action, though
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 08 October, 2013, 06:49:41 pm
First ride in for a couple of weeks for various meh reasons.

Noticeably darker now.  Proper dark for the first hour or so, and sunrise on the CoM, which is kinda cool.
As is the weather.  Kinda cool before dawn.

Ride home I took the Fetteresso route, which is a wee bit longer at 70k, but I wanted to investigate a hidden new 275kv substation that has been stealthily built in Fetteresso forest.  ( I'm a bit weird that way. )  The dog-leg up to the forest was surprisingly brutal!

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/387640961
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 09 October, 2013, 08:43:02 am
A lovely ride in this morning, light wind (ooops, sorry must have been the beans!), started in the dark and rode through the sunrise.

Kind, careful, courteous drivers, including a taxi driver who hung back behind me until it was totally clear ahead then gently overtook, giving me a whole lane!

His taxi firm will be hearing about it (especially as they are the ones that have our works account!)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 09 October, 2013, 09:13:55 am
Lovely ride for me too. Nice weather, also rode through the sunrise.

Garmin must have had a moment in the middle though. Ave pace for 80 minutes 19.8mph (fine) Max speed 227.9mph (God I'm fast. Lewis Hamilton watch out, your car has nothing on me)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 09 October, 2013, 09:20:53 am
In contrast, I'd like to know why, on completely empty roads at 5:55 am it is necessary to observe tight lane discipline on the A14/A134 roundabout to such an extent there is mere mm between my (admittedly substantial) arse and your wing mirror, Mr Private Hire Vehicle? Did you really think using the other lane would be so bad? Not even a waffer thin sliver of your vehicle crossed that central white line, and as I was dodging the craters and gutter glass, that didn't leave much air between us. Knob.

Generally it's not bad when I get the early train, an hour later it's always more 'interesting'.

Still, I got a fine sunrise.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: keeks on 09 October, 2013, 01:15:45 pm
Saw a Kingfisher this morning. I had spotted one there a year or so ago so always look out of him/her and yep there he/she was again or maybe a relation .
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 09 October, 2013, 01:41:40 pm
An unusual commute today. 
Leg 1 Start off a hour and a half late and arrived at Dentist on time.
Leg 2a Station Road, Radyr to Rhiwbina. I pause at bike shop to ask if they had looked at orange bilke's hub yet. They had not.
Leg 2b Rhiwbina to Newport Station. I ride along Maes y Coed road which used to smell nice because the bakeries but many have closed now. I continue down past Roath Park then Marborough Road to Newport Road. Here I decide enough urban what I need is industrial estates. Actually I decided to approach Newport via the Wentloog flats but the Cardiff end is nearly all industrial estate these days. Eventually I turn onto the old road and enjoyed the peaceful ride up to Newport.  I had a vague idea where I was going until I noticed a sign with the railway logo and followed it.  Then another then nothing. I was slightly lost so retraced and followed commonsense until I arrived. I entered lost property office paid £2 and retrieved my lost goods. (Newport is the only lost property office in Wales).
Leg 3 I am short on time and at a Railway station.  I buy a ticket to Bridgend and get off at Pencoed and complete my ride to work a whole morning late.

 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 09 October, 2013, 07:27:13 pm
For some reason, my ringing of the changes of my route took me home along Cable Street at around 6-ish. Oh my my  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 10 October, 2013, 08:39:13 am
Winter is coming.

Bit chilly out today, span in at a sedate pace cos my legs are not really working after PT yesterday! Nice run in though, apart from one near death experience.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 10 October, 2013, 08:55:45 am
Saw someone who was very brave, riding a hybrid shod for trails through the bendy bit of Nine Mile Ride in the rush hour. Not a route and time combination I would choose unless I was in a car ( :-[ Iwas)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 10 October, 2013, 09:41:11 am
Drove in today - I'm not proud, but sometimes you gotta do what you gotta do.

Not only is it hellaciously windy, and I've not fitted tri-bars to the Trail Slayer (yet) but my gluteus maximii are giving me grief after giving it some serious beans on the turbo last night.

Oh, and it's bloody cold in the wind, too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 10 October, 2013, 09:41:30 am
I am babysitting a Trek 'Gary Fisher' Superfly AL Elite so dug out the Specialized Sawpit boots and rode in on the 29'er this morning. It was rather pleasant :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 10 October, 2013, 01:01:32 pm
M'colleague mentioned yesterday that he'd seen a bike under a bus on Rye Lane on the way to work. Anyone know any more about that?

And following that, I saw this in the news today:
http://www.newsshopper.co.uk/news/10729562.UPDATE__Cyclist_rushed_to_hospital_with_head_injuries_following_Sydenham_smash/?ref=twtrec

Two spots I often go through on my commute.  :(

South London, eh?  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 10 October, 2013, 02:38:30 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 10 October, 2013, 01:01:32 pm
M'colleague mentioned yesterday that he'd seen a bike under a bus on Rye Lane on the way to work. Anyone know any more about that?

And following that, I saw this in the news today:
http://www.newsshopper.co.uk/news/10729562.UPDATE__Cyclist_rushed_to_hospital_with_head_injuries_following_Sydenham_smash/?ref=twtrec

Two spots I often go through on my commute.  :(

South London, eh?  ::-)

If Twitter is to be believed (and it's probably not) the driver in the Sydenham crash was doing her make-up and ran off afterward leaving her car on the scene... Goes without saying it had the obligatory 'baby on board' sticker.

Fortunately I'm working at home today so wasn't cycling down Rye Lane, but we've had previous discussions about how little fun it can be at times (the top end is blighted by traffic islands and impatient drivers, the bottom end is Peckham).

Hope they're both alright.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 10 October, 2013, 03:07:21 pm
There was a post about this on the Lewisham Cyclists Facebook Group
https://www.facebook.com/groups/72380106728/

I had a rather long commute yesterday Scottish style involving a very wild and windy bike ride, a few trains....... an interesting change time allowance at Inverness of 5 minutes to make the Glasgow train resulted in us missing that and being piled on to the sleeperto change at Perth to a Glasgow connection that didn't exist. Fortunately this minor problem was spotted by the sleeper guard who phoned through and a people carrier big enough to carry two bikes, bags, tents was waiting for us at Stirling.  Our bikes and bags were heaved up the stairs by two friendly train despatchers and into the car. Which was soon zooming along the empty M80. By 2am we were hauling those bikes and bags up to the top floor of the tenement where my daughter lives.  Hoping that today's journey will be somewhat less eventful.  (Glasgow to London, then ride home from Euston).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 10 October, 2013, 08:20:08 pm
Due to having this on loan-

(http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b360/mattlangridge/DSC03982.jpg) (http://s23.photobucket.com/user/mattlangridge/media/DSC03982.jpg.html)

I took an extended ride home which added 5 miles to the route, a considerable bit of which was along the Thames Path.

Lots of Canada Goose shit stuck to the bike now  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 10 October, 2013, 09:33:47 pm
Quote from: fuzzy on 10 October, 2013, 08:20:08 pm
Lots of Canada Goose shit stuck to the bike now  ;D

Is that what's in the tub? ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 10 October, 2013, 09:36:21 pm
That weeny chainwheel should give you access to trees.
The top parts....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 10 October, 2013, 11:49:38 pm
Headed out along the Tay to a meeting. The sun was setting as I rode along the river

(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3808/10197257003_5051354a62_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davidmam/10197257003/)
IMAG1764 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davidmam/10197257003/) by davidmamartin (http://www.flickr.com/people/davidmam/), on Flickr

And turning round..

(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7404/10197265203_39f993f15c_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davidmam/10197265203/)
IMAG1765 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davidmam/10197265203/) by davidmamartin (http://www.flickr.com/people/davidmam/), on Flickr

A largish boat was heading in the same direction
(http://scontent-a-lhr.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/p206x206/1378456_10152008870300039_435168884_n.jpg)

The sun was set as I rode back.
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8396/10194011685_0541b9878c_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davidmam/10194011685/)
IMAG1776 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davidmam/10194011685/) by davidmamartin (http://www.flickr.com/people/davidmam/), on Flickr
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 11 October, 2013, 01:20:50 am
A forecast a day keeps the fair weather cyclists away, it was actually a rather nice day for it.  I'm sure there were far fewer on the roads today, however the extra space was compensated by more air than usual.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 11 October, 2013, 08:17:58 am
It was lovely riding in the pre-sunrise glow. Overhead, the first plane of the day caught the sun as it made its turn towards paradise
Quote from: Lorraine Chase
No. Luton Airport
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 11 October, 2013, 08:21:31 am
Gah. I had my only full house of the year two weeks ago, and a perfectly hassle free week it was. Then a week at home with a horrible cold and this week I've been too yuk to cycle, so have had to car it to work. Oh god. I've rediscovered why I cycle. 10 miles. It took 1.40 one day and it's never been less than an hour either way, except for this morning where, in a moment of desperation, I set off at 5.20.

Back on the bike next week, I can't take this any more, however horrible I feel.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 11 October, 2013, 08:37:04 am
It wasn't particularly cold in London this morning, but I did upgrade to 1 long sleeve thin layer, and my rainproof DHB jacket for later, with lightweight Durafeet gloves, and was just right.  Was wearing jeans as no-one much in the office today, and my Dorothy Perkins skinnies are fine on the bike, if a little low at the back, but covered by the long sleeve top and jacket.

The wind was a bit of a bugger though, enough to sting the eyes and make them water.  A little reminder of what it will be like when it gets proper cold.  Will have to dig out my prescription wrap round glasses (aka alien glasses, as they are a silvery grey).

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 11 October, 2013, 02:15:39 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 10 October, 2013, 01:01:32 pm
... I saw this in the news today:
http://www.newsshopper.co.uk/news/10729562.UPDATE__Cyclist_rushed_to_hospital_with_head_injuries_following_Sydenham_smash/?ref=twtrec

Mrs R and son #2 arrived on the scene shortly after the Mayow Road incident - on their initial approach they were alarmed at how still the cyclist was, but then they saw his hands moving.  The car in question appeared to have rounded the corner completely on the wrong side of the road.

Edit: yes, this photo taken a bit later rather confirms that.
(http://static.lfgss.com/attachments/74644d1381459101-20131010_082414.jpg)

This and the Rye Lane incident had me on edge yesterday, as it was son #2's first solo after dark trip out through SE London traffic.  I was standing in our upstairs front room for ages waiting for him to appear.  His piano lesson in Ladywell was supposed to have finished at 7.45, and at 8.20 there was still no sign of him.  He duly appeared at 8.25 - yes, his piano teacher was running late and all was well.  I guess I'll stop worrying at some point.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 11 October, 2013, 02:23:08 pm
Might be rumour:

Quote
Clark Fuell ‏@Clarky_2 1h
@Clarky_2 after talking to the police, they have catch the driver and it was due 2 her putting on her makeup while driving #Sydenham #makeup
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 11 October, 2013, 02:28:38 pm
In Cambridge, drivers routinely take that line at a mini roundabout on Chesterton High St. Several times I have nearly ended up like that cyclist.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 11 October, 2013, 04:14:22 pm
Grim photo - I hope the rider is getting all the best medical attention and makes a full recovery.

It's going to be a tough commute home I think - the wind's really up here (Buckinghamshire).  It was cold and nasty rain on the way in this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 11 October, 2013, 05:42:13 pm
Legs decided they had reached the weekend already before I started riding home for some reason, and something on the bike is squeaking. Looks like I have some fettling to do.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 14 October, 2013, 01:11:44 pm
Finally I get to commute on Orange bike. I wondered whether I could get up the hills as I have not ridden single speed for a couple years. I should not of worried 41 x 17 x 622-28 is an easy gear if you read the claims of the fixed gear crowd. It was all going well when I hit a bump and the saddle slipped to a steep nose up angle.  So not a comfortable commute.  I just reset the saddle level.  I hope it holds this time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PAC on 14 October, 2013, 08:28:17 pm
Serious road rage incident on the way home tonight....unprovoked, a motorist started shouting at me & then chased me up & down some local roads (he was clearly on a mission), mounted a pavement to try & knock me off, but luckily I escaped when the driver got out of his car, presumably to try and hit me.  I'm lucky that I'm nimble & quick on the Brompton, otherwise I fear I'd be in hospital this evening!

Reported incident to the Police & being in Thames Valley, they certainly sound like they're going to pursue the matter...sufficient details given & a possible witness.  Nuff said (apart from I'll be taking a different route to & from the station for a while!).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 14 October, 2013, 08:51:16 pm
Shit! :o

I'm very glad you escaped him.  There are some incredibly unbalanced people out there behind the wheel. >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 15 October, 2013, 08:38:53 am
Red VW LL57HTV on Ampthill Rd yesterday afternoon. Your demonstration of TEH DRIVIN SKILLZ was utter rubbish. You could have come at least 1/4 inch closer and still not touched my elbow. ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 15 October, 2013, 08:41:20 am
Yesterday. If I'm through Kingston before eight in the morning I'll bimble through the pedestrianised area rather than face the occasional psycho on the one way system. Just at the far end I crossed right in front of a colleague who was heading for the bus. He keeps talking about cycling to work but hasn't quite managed it. From Kingston it's six and a half miles. The race was on.

This was my first time on the bike in over two weeks so was taking things easy, but I was still mildly confident. Then, disaster, a mile from work and the dreaded pfffffttt. My first in that tyre in 3300 miles. Should I walk or fix it. Couldn't face the indignity of the walk so set about replacing the tube.

Underway again in 12 minutes and still beat him to work by ten minutes.  8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 15 October, 2013, 08:42:12 am
blimey, PAC, that sounds scary.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 15 October, 2013, 08:57:10 am
Sun was out, the wind was down and it was nice and pleasent out :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 15 October, 2013, 09:04:13 am
Decided to ride the Superfly again this morning and opted for a slightly off road route. This was a good decision until I turnde off road and suddenly remembered that off road tends to be shaded. In the summer- great, on an early autumn morning, shade = dark ::-) Comedy off roading ensued as i tried to see and avoid obstacles in the light of my JoyStick which was not to bright in the dawning light.

Stayed upright and enjoyed the challenge :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 15 October, 2013, 11:30:34 am
Chilly start with fog which cleared and it warmed up a bit in the sun.

Might be getting winter gloves out soon...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 15 October, 2013, 12:35:22 pm
All the conkers have been crushed, roads as greasy as a Gregg's door handle out there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PAC on 15 October, 2013, 07:46:56 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 15 October, 2013, 08:42:12 am
blimey, PAC, that sounds scary.
Certainly was!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 15 October, 2013, 07:51:43 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 15 October, 2013, 12:35:22 pm
All the conkers have been crushed, roads as greasy as a Gregg's door handle out there.

Yup. Something I noticed at the weekend. It's Chutney Time  :thumbsup:.

BTW:

Quote from: spindrift on 15 October, 2013, 12:35:22 pm
as greasy as a Gregg's door handle out there.

LOL!  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 15 October, 2013, 10:41:03 pm
Yesterday and today were my first commutes (well first and second) for three weeks. Bleh, the legs, there weren't happy.

Seems like hard work and inexplicably the squeaking (from the bike) I had before I stopped riding is still there despite me doing nothing to sort it  :facepalm:

Ah well, the fitness'll come back soon enough.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 16 October, 2013, 08:04:53 am
Thick mist this morning. A big  :thumbsup: to all those motorists who slowed down a bit and used dipped headlights which was, well, everybody!

A specially big  :thumbsup: to the driver of the silver BMW X-series who waited at the wider bit until I had cleared the narrowest part of Priory Rd. Driver, you may be surprised to hear that most people think it's ok to keep going and the bicycle will magically disappear out of their way. Well done O:-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Vince on 16 October, 2013, 08:10:49 am
Lots of water, unusually not coming out of the sky. A lake had overflowed leaving a 10cm deep ford arcoss the cycle path, leaving me with wet feet. A bit futher on I noticed that in addition to the pumping station two tractor driven pumps were draining the fields.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 16 October, 2013, 08:48:46 am
Foggy cool weather. Absolutely beautiful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 16 October, 2013, 09:00:50 am
Went looking for mud on the way home last night and found it in places :thumbsup:

Christ but I've deskilled on off road stuff since I left bike patrol though :o

Yesterday mornings comedy off road was repeated this morning by looking for more unlit and overhung tracks and paths. Low light and shade exacerbated by fog. Shit but I love offroading 8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 16 October, 2013, 10:59:54 am
Work have recently obtained a speed sign for our 10mph carpark.

This morning I deliberately approached it on the bike at 17kph (10.6mph), I rather scared a colleague when I exclaimed as it lit up at me. Both that it picked up a bike and that the speed is set for bang on 10mph.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 16 October, 2013, 12:49:04 pm
Did everyone not see the forecast? It may rain later - what were you all doing riding in on MY roads?  Actually, I'm quite happy to share with other cyclists, it's just the knobheads that happen to be on a bike instead of a car that are the problem. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 16 October, 2013, 02:45:19 pm
I was cold, wet and miserable. It was windy, and I was slow. Slowest time I've done on this route, I think.

I added a Strava segment for one short climb on the route. It turns out that today was my slowest time. And that my best time is 3rd overall (?!).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 16 October, 2013, 07:59:14 pm
Today I fitted the cable from my luxos to the Bumm Line on my Racktime Stand-It rack.  At first I didn't think it was working because I could not see the earth marking on the rack so I did not know if I had connected it correctly.  When I spun the front wheel all I could see was two dim leds.  When I set off I checked the light again the leds seemed slightly brighter but still not very good in the direct low bright sunlight.  After sixteen miles the sun has set but it is still bright twilight.  I look at the back lamp and it is shining across its standlight length.  I am pleased. I presume it is brighter when I am riding but not being a contortionist I will never know.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PAC on 16 October, 2013, 08:44:09 pm
Quote from: PAC on 14 October, 2013, 08:28:17 pm
Serious road rage incident on the way home tonight....unprovoked, a motorist started shouting at me & then chased me up & down some local roads (he was clearly on a mission), mounted a pavement to try & knock me off, but luckily I escaped when the driver got out of his car, presumably to try and hit me.  I'm lucky that I'm nimble & quick on the Brompton, otherwise I fear I'd be in hospital this evening!

Reported incident to the Police & being in Thames Valley, they certainly sound like they're going to pursue the matter...sufficient details given & a possible witness.  Nuff said (apart from I'll be taking a different route to & from the station for a while!).

Soooo.....the update!  Police visited tonight & took the details of the pursuit.  They're confident there's enough evidence to give the driver a Section 59 & putting an AV marker against his car.  They're going to pay him a visit, then give me an update to let me know the outcome.  There is an option of pressing charges if I wanted them to go down that route, but for now I'm pleased with how seriously they've taken it :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 October, 2013, 08:48:53 pm
I hope you get further than I have.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 16 October, 2013, 10:06:01 pm
Got very stroppy with a p---k on a mountain bike this morning. I could forgive him not noticing the red light, or even the three cyclists stopped at it, but not noticing the children crossing the road suggested a real lack of concentration. Sadly, when I caught up with him (which didn't take long as he also had failed to notice that he had a small lever that would enable him to change to an easier gear) I discovered that he lacked sufficient mental capacity to conduct a conversation.

Oh well. At least I got to ride the remaining couple of miles in a sanctimonious glow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil W on 16 October, 2013, 10:41:00 pm
A driver this evening decided that despite the fact I was already on the roundabout; he could accelerate into the same space. Fortunately one of us was alert and heavy braking and steering to my right avoided my getting hit. Had a close up through his side window of the idiot craning his neck to try looking at me, so he had seen me.  Shame because the few cars I see on my commute are generally considerate.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 17 October, 2013, 01:02:37 pm
Last night, not today. Going through a village there's a tight right-angle blind right turn. completely blind, there's a house on the corner and there's no pavement or front garden. There's also plenty of wet leaves around so naturally I'm well out from the gutter.

The chap coming up behind decides to overtake, presumably on the basis he can't see any car headlights, and he's got telepathy for anything else that might be round the corner. So he pulls nice and wide to go round the corner at the same time as me. This is not unexpected. What happened next was though: in the middle of the turn, and alongside me, he pulled hard to the left, so instinctively I swerve, brake and say "whoa!" but not particularly loudly. Then he slams on his brakes, and I brake, slide on the leaves but just about manage to stay upright and avoid the back of his car by mm.

So what was there in the road that caused this swerve and emergency stop? Or was he about to leap out and thump me for criticising his driving? Nope. He'd damn near put me in the floor so he could wind his window down and apologise!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 17 October, 2013, 01:10:03 pm
Quote from: matthew on 16 October, 2013, 10:59:54 am
Work have recently obtained a speed sign for our 10mph carpark.

This morning I deliberately approached it on the bike at 17kph (10.6mph), I rather scared a colleague when I exclaimed as it lit up at me. Both that it picked up a bike and that the speed is set for bang on 10mph.

This morning it triggered at 15.6kph and went off again at 15.1kph, not that most drivers will be able to see the difference between 9.5 and 10mph on their speedos
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 17 October, 2013, 05:33:14 pm
Crossing Southwark Bridge yesterday evening. South to north. At the north end of the bridge, motor traffic has the option of turning right or left. Cyclists also have the option of going straight ahead into Queen Street.

There are two lanes and those turning right (the majority of traffic) use both lanes.

So, as I approach the junction, I'm in the left hand lane, intending to go straight on. A taxi comes by me, then hits the queue and slows down, so I continue filtering up the inside. I can't see his left indicator signalling, so I assume he's turning right...

I think I was lucky that my spidey-sense started tingling as we reached the junction alongside each other, hence I was able to take evasive action when he started turning left across me.

Phew! That was close.

And lesson learnt. I mean, I take issue with the fact that he wasn't using his indicators, but I'm experienced enough to know better than that. And I admit I was thinking more about getting across before the lights changed rather than being sensible.   :facepalm:

After we'd both turned left, the taxi driver stopped about 20 metres along the road, expecting me to go over and engage him in a friendly discussion of the incident, I imagine, but I just gave him a dismissive wave and pootled on my way. I don't think a confrontation would have helped anyone.

Ho hum!  ::-)


Quote from: PAC on 16 October, 2013, 08:44:09 pm
Soooo.....the update!  Police visited tonight & took the details of the pursuit.  They're confident there's enough evidence to give the driver a Section 59 & putting an AV marker against his car.  They're going to pay him a visit, then give me an update to let me know the outcome.  There is an option of pressing charges if I wanted them to go down that route, but for now I'm pleased with how seriously they've taken it :thumbsup:

That's good. Hope the driver gets the message.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 21 October, 2013, 09:10:33 am
trains delayed by 25 minutes. I should have gone home for the car.  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 21 October, 2013, 10:22:03 am
Two hours from the alarm going off to me leaving the flat.  Me, faff?  ::-)  Would have helped if I had got things ready last night, or at any point over the weekend.

But it was great to be back on the bike again (not commuted for three weeks).  I was in full summer mode, while others looked dressed for mid-December. 

Next time I take time off the bike, I must remember to make allowances for initiation and progression of road works.  Thankfully no one here says anything if you're not at your desk spot on at 09:00 (unless you're on a helpline or have a meeting).

If I get out of here at a decent time I may take the scenic route home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 21 October, 2013, 10:37:58 am
A scalp.

The very fact that there was anyone to scalp is pretty amazing- 5:45, pitch black & raining - and I'm almost certain my casual "I'll just trigger the lights for you" as I overtook was really the icing on the cake for the MAMIL being overtaken by a fat bird on a crap steel bike with only one gear. I really hoped he'd prove his commuting skillz by replying 'IT'S A RECOVERY RIDE' but he just muttered "morning" as I flew past (carefully breathing through my armpits, as I know it's important to show no exertion).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 October, 2013, 10:44:54 am
Quote from: Andrij on 21 October, 2013, 10:22:03 am
But it was great to be back on the bike again (not commuted for three weeks). 

Yay! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 21 October, 2013, 04:28:22 pm
Quote from: matthew on 21 October, 2013, 09:10:33 am
trains delayed by 25 minutes. I should have gone home for the car.  >:(

Scrub that colleagues all came in complaining that roadworks on the A329(M) had jammed back the M4 most of the way to the M25!!

Looks like I was right to choose the train after all, though I could almost have cycled the whole way in as quickly but I am not that fit at the moment.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 21 October, 2013, 04:34:47 pm
I regard todays commute as a fail.  I managed to get up at the usual time but I was not motivated properly to leave the house.  This should have been my first rainy pre-sunset start but I just refused to rush out and left home twenty five minutes late. The roads were quiet, unexpectedly for this week. This in theory is the busiest Monday of the year but it was not. In general like me drivers do not like leaving before sunrise so many more drivers cram their cars in between sunrise and their due time. You might expect it to be busier in December but it is not, more people are off work in December sickness and holiday (sometime both :demon: )
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Martin109 on 21 October, 2013, 07:01:46 pm
Quote from: fboab on 21 October, 2013, 10:37:58 am
A scalp.

The very fact that there was anyone to scalp is pretty amazing- 5:45, pitch black & raining - and I'm almost certain my casual "I'll just trigger the lights for you" as I overtook was really the icing on the cake for the MAMIL being overtaken by a fat bird on a crap steel bike with only one gear. I really hoped he'd prove his commuting skillz by replying 'IT'S A RECOVERY RIDE' but he just muttered "morning" as I flew past (carefully breathing through my armpits, as I know it's important to show no exertion).

I hope that's not the Falcon you're referring to!   :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 22 October, 2013, 10:36:44 am
It was mildly moist coming in this morning but having not cycled in for a whole week my legs felt happy and the wet weather gear worked nicely!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 22 October, 2013, 10:47:02 am
Shortly after I left home and joined the main road, a  twenty-ish lad overtook me while I was just turning the pedals. I thought to myself, time to wake up, and grabbed his wheel as incentive to get up to commuting speed and mood. He appeared to take this as a challenge, cue some furious footwork which wasn't at all difficult to follow, but clearly was an exertion. After a short while I thought I'd better let him "win" and eased off, I am rarely in a mood for racing. Was I being good or being bad? I can't work it out.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 22 October, 2013, 12:02:34 pm
Wet.

Shit driving.

I console myself with the thought that driving would have cost £11 in petrol for the round trip.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 22 October, 2013, 12:11:09 pm
Wet - would have probably been quicker with a kayak.

Headwind was pretty strong as well, so hopefully riding home with it behind me will be a bit more fun.

[eta]
Way home included a thunderstorm, riding up a road that looked more like a river and stupid rat-runners getting annoyed with me for not riding in the torrent at the edge of the road so they could push past. :(

There was the tail wind at least :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 22 October, 2013, 01:36:00 pm
A bit soggy. Lots of numpties - some in cars, more on bikes, sad to say. Still better than the train  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 23 October, 2013, 09:37:02 am
Wet
Headwind
Tired
Arrived at work to discover an absence. An absence of a shirt.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 23 October, 2013, 09:42:05 am
Very wet. Grumpy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 23 October, 2013, 10:46:56 am
And here is the weather forecast.

Strong wind gusting from the South, South West. Likely to drop to zero at around 4:30.....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 23 October, 2013, 12:09:30 pm
route changes this week as roads re-opened on completion of the tramlines install. Heading east from haymarket to end of princes street is ok-ish: Heading west passing haymarket station is a frankly a dangerous road layout, forcing a shallow angled cross of the tramlines. I saw a guy on a genesis equilibrium doing a carbon copy of this yesterday.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aE3W4kEBhuE

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 23 October, 2013, 12:42:07 pm
I expected to be on time today but I was not.  I opened the kitchen door at 7:30 and pulled the bike from he shed. A whole hour and a half to get to work. Things never work out. I noticed the front tyre is flat. So I take the wheel and spent half an hour performing the ritual to appease the puncture fairy and cleaning the kitchen afterwards.  So I set off at 7:58. Now a couple of months ago with quiet roads, fine weather and a geared bike I would try hard and arrive in a little over a hour. Today I was riding into a persistent headwind on single speed and only managed 1:27 so I was 25 minutes late.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 23 October, 2013, 01:53:25 pm
Took the pretty way, down Lonesome Lane (the long crack in that is a horror. Must go and fillthathole), then up the A23.  Brief moment of lovlieness as a rainbow appeared. This was cancelled by the heavy shower a bit later.  No waterproof with me.  Badass or badly prepared? Vote now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 23 October, 2013, 01:56:55 pm
Last night - on my way home...

I'm commuting in on my old mountain bike this week - it had some major "tinkering" at the weekend and I want to make sure everything works before I use it on the Birmingham Tunnels ride on Saturday.

1) I unlocked the bike to go home and wheeled it out from the racks when a major bang emanated from it, like a gunshot. On closer inspection it appeared that the front tyre had deflated in a rather dramatic fashion.

2) Went for the spare tube in my rack pack. Now I have assorted tubes in the rack pack. I found two 700C, two 20" for my folder, a 16" for a Brompton (was given it by someone who thought all folders had the same wheel sizes) and a 24" (WTF - I don't have a 24" wheel... no idea where it came from). I was starting to panic when, right at the bottom I found a brand new 26", complete in it's box. It was well buried. I'd been given it some time ago by a friend to replace the 26" I'd loaned to them to get home.

3) Opened the 26" box to discover it wasn't a 26" at all - but another 700c. No problem, I thought - I'll just have to patch the tube. There I hit a problem - the tube has a 2" gash in it, on the inside near the valve stem. Lining up all my patches I could just about cover 1.8"...

4) Admitting defeat I dragged the bike up to the office for the night and phoned the wife for a lift. She reminded me that she's gone out for the evening.

5) Walked home in the rain. Made the enlightening discovery that rain legs aren't much use when walking...

6) Went to unlock the front door. Where's the key? - in my rackpack which is back in the office...

7) Walked back to work in the rain. The rain legs had been abandoned - pushed through the letterbox at home.

8 ) Collected house key. Abandoned cycle shoes at work - my legs were killing me. There's a limit to how far you can walk in cleats.

9) Walked back home in the rain wearing my work safety boots (no alternative footwear)

10) Two and a half hours after trying to leave work I eventually arrived home, got the car out and immediately drove round to Halfords to buy new 26" inners. There late night opening wasn't quite late enough...

11) In desperation, drove to the 24 hour Tescos and bought their entire stock of 26" tubes - all two of them. I figured that Tesco's no name stock is probably of a fairly similar quality to Halford's no name stock, plus the fact that beggars can't be choosers.

Today I've walked back into work with spare tubes and repaired the bike. I'm just hoping that this evening's commute will be less eventful. I've also figured what blew the tube. A tube designed for a 32mm tyre might be a little overstretched in a 2.1" outer...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 23 October, 2013, 02:29:39 pm
^^ unlucky! i'd still have tried to install either 24" or 700c tube under-inflate it and ride home carefully.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 23 October, 2013, 02:34:50 pm
Quote from: SlowCoach on 23 October, 2013, 01:56:55 pm
2) Went for the spare tube in my rack pack. Now I have assorted tubes in the rack pack. I found two 700C, two 20" for my folder, a 16" for a Brompton (was given it by someone who thought all folders had the same wheel sizes) and a 24" (WTF - I don't have a 24" wheel... no idea where it came from). I was starting to panic when, right at the bottom I found a brand new 26", complete in it's box. It was well buried. I'd been given it some time ago by a friend to replace the 26" I'd loaned to them to get home.

Glad it's not just me that has this problem...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 23 October, 2013, 06:32:37 pm
The 24" tube would have worked well with just a little care during installation. After a couple of days, it would have permanently streched to the correct size anyway. Too late now though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 23 October, 2013, 06:45:43 pm
Previous experience of using a 26" tube in a 700c tyre suggests that attempting such at the roadside is a recipe for "BANG!".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 23 October, 2013, 07:01:31 pm
I found that a lightweight 24 x 1 3/8" tube would work in a 26 x 2.2" tyre for weeks at a time before the strain made the tubes blow out at the base of the valve. A bloke on an early MTB team was obsessed with saving rotating weight and was happy to replace tubes at fortnightly intervals. You do have to be careful when fitting a new tube as it is easy to trap the tube under a bead. YMMV of course
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 24 October, 2013, 08:35:55 am
In tyre-related news, some serious feathery flapping bulging wear in the sidewall. New M+ Ordered. Disappointed, I've only done 10,700km on it.

In non-tyre-related-news, some serious feathery flapping ineptitude in the operator. No knickers packed. Disappointed, I'm a) wearing a skirt and b) a long way from anywhere I could get some.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 24 October, 2013, 08:57:36 am
Quote from: fboab on 24 October, 2013, 08:35:55 am
In tyre-related news, some serious feathery flapping bulging wear in the sidewall. New M+ Ordered. Disappointed, I've only done 10,700km on it.

In non-tyre-related-news, some serious feathery flapping ineptitude in the operator. No knickers packed. Disappointed, I'm a) wearing a skirt and b) a long way from anywhere I could get some.

Would saying TTIUWOP get me a) slapped, b) arrested or c) both?

 ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 24 October, 2013, 08:59:04 am
This morning I needed to be in early to do some sneaky beaky stuffs. My first ride this side of summer where lights were needed all the way.

It was a tad chilly at knee height.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 24 October, 2013, 09:09:49 am
Nice, fresh ride in this morning. I may be a bit warm this afternoon though! Only one incident otherwise when some old duffer tried to murder me at a crossroads. Otherwise quite pleasant!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 24 October, 2013, 09:12:02 am
Quote from: fboab on 24 October, 2013, 08:35:55 am
In non-tyre-related-news, some serious feathery flapping ineptitude in the operator. No knickers packed. Disappointed, I'm a) wearing a skirt and b) a long way from anywhere I could get some.
I think that beats my 'no shirt' yesterday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 24 October, 2013, 09:39:35 am
When I'm lane splitting or white lining past crawling traffic, I often get a driver accelerate madly into the 20 or so foot gap between themselves and the car in front.  I've no idea why they do this and it's never a problem.  In fact it usually amuses me greatly as they then slam on the brakes at the last minute and I sail on up the road.  But I've noticed that for some reason it is happening lots and lots this week.  I wonder why.  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 24 October, 2013, 09:41:37 am
Quote from: fuzzy on 24 October, 2013, 08:57:36 am
Quote from: fboab on 24 October, 2013, 08:35:55 am
In tyre-related news, some serious feathery flapping bulging wear in the sidewall. New M+ Ordered. Disappointed, I've only done 10,700km on it.

In non-tyre-related-news, some serious feathery flapping ineptitude in the operator. No knickers packed. Disappointed, I'm a) wearing a skirt and b) a long way from anywhere I could get some.

Would saying TTIUWOP get me a) slapped, b) arrested or c) both?

 ;)

Fuzzy, have you never seen a worn tyre before?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 24 October, 2013, 09:48:39 am
Quote from: clarion on 24 October, 2013, 09:41:37 am
Quote from: fuzzy on 24 October, 2013, 08:57:36 am
Quote from: fboab on 24 October, 2013, 08:35:55 am
In tyre-related news, some serious feathery flapping bulging wear in the sidewall. New M+ Ordered. Disappointed, I've only done 10,700km on it.

In non-tyre-related-news, some serious feathery flapping ineptitude in the operator. No knickers packed. Disappointed, I'm a) wearing a skirt and b) a long way from anywhere I could get some.

Would saying TTIUWOP get me a) slapped, b) arrested or c) both?

 ;)

Fuzzy, have you never seen a worn tyre before?

Not that badly worn, no.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 24 October, 2013, 01:22:32 pm
Quote from: Basil on 24 October, 2013, 09:39:35 am
When I'm lane splitting or white lining past crawling traffic, I often get a driver accelerate madly into the 20 or so foot gap between themselves and the car in front.  I've no idea why they do this and it's never a problem.  In fact it usually amuses me greatly as they then slam on the brakes at the last minute and I sail on up the road.  But I've noticed that for some reason it is happening lots and lots this week.  I wonder why.  ???

They do it to keep passing cyclists entertained. The entertainment occurs when the 20 foot gap they thought they had turns out to be only 19'6".  :demon:

Beware of being car doored though when the driver in front jumps out to politely exchange insurance details.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 24 October, 2013, 02:06:10 pm
I'm not a big filterer, so don't get it very often, but I assume it's to make sure you don't stop in the gap in front of them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 24 October, 2013, 05:02:41 pm
I always filter past cars on my commute to get to the front at the traffic lights so I do not have to sniff their exhausts.  It also allows me to have a mini rant at the car stopped in the advanced stop line box.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 24 October, 2013, 10:40:44 pm
Due to the early start, I had an early finish. Found me some more mud and slip slidey descents. Got home at the usual time ;D

Cleaning the bike took half an hour though ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 25 October, 2013, 08:54:19 am
Blimey.  It was so dark this morning that I had to get my watch out at the first traffic lights to check that I'd not left home at the wrong time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 25 October, 2013, 09:00:43 am
It's damp out there
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 25 October, 2013, 09:03:50 am
It's mildly moist at most. Queit day on the roads though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 25 October, 2013, 09:04:42 am
Very dark and wet. But at about 6.15am, I saw a man walking down a high street, singing. In the rain. Fair enough, it's Friday, but he was just wearing his pants. Not great pants either. He must have cold feet by now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 25 October, 2013, 09:19:58 am
Would great pants have made it any better?

Each to their own I suppose.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 25 October, 2013, 09:32:50 am
Well, perhaps if they were great pants he might have wanted to show them off. But not these pants.....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 25 October, 2013, 10:48:58 am
Given my experience yesterday, I'm just glad (for you) that he had pants.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 25 October, 2013, 11:16:28 am
You had a singing man with not even any pants?!  :o :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 25 October, 2013, 11:38:41 am
Quote from: Lady Cavendish on 25 October, 2013, 11:16:28 am
You had a singing man with not even any pants?!  :o :o

Well, y'know... I can hold a tune  O:-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 25 October, 2013, 11:57:28 am
That was damp. So damp that I had to resort to my emergency socks and shoes (having carefully worn leggings and brought my trews in the rucksack.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 25 October, 2013, 03:43:08 pm
Forgetting your laptop power supply makes the journey between jobsites in Notting Hill and Mayfair considerably further than it should be (back home to Twickenham!).

It's starting to get gusty down here - might be a wild weekend for sure.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 25 October, 2013, 05:13:46 pm
made eye contact with the driver of the train as I walked onto the platform, unfortunately this was just as the guard signalled the doors were closed and that the driver should depart.  :(

So I cycled home, calling in on my sister and nephew just as they were leaving to collect niece from school.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 26 October, 2013, 10:50:55 am
Quote from: Lady Cavendish on 25 October, 2013, 09:32:50 am
Well, perhaps if they were great pants he might have wanted to show them off. But not these pants.....

The pants were pants.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 27 October, 2013, 11:15:07 pm
Weather has cheered up big time ( for a day at least ) here on Oklahoma.
So managed a 1-way commute, homeward, on the rental bike.

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/396498256
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Bender on 28 October, 2013, 08:57:03 am
Awesome tailwind and my train was on time. Think I got a new PB time too :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 28 October, 2013, 09:39:57 am
came in to the office to find only four other coworkers out of fifty. storm, apparently.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 28 October, 2013, 09:47:31 am
Only one other bike in the bike parking at work this morning.  (normally 8 - 10)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 28 October, 2013, 10:00:06 am
Quote from: Basil on 28 October, 2013, 09:47:31 am
Only one other bike in the bike parking at work this morning.  (normally 8 - 10)
Numbers were down here too - no storm up here, but lots and lots of rain.

I drove in, 'cos I'm a coward (and I need to raid Aldi on the way home)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 28 October, 2013, 10:16:25 am
Anyone travelling eastbound along the Embankment is sure to get a PB today!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 28 October, 2013, 10:57:24 am
Last night: No trains before 8am
this morning:
7am - no trains till 9am
8am - no trains till 10am
9am - no trains till 11am
So I got out the bike and rode 14miles west in 1:15 complete with the stop to notify TVP of the tree down in the village. Good thing it's half term the 1500 pupil secondary school is on that road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 28 October, 2013, 12:47:29 pm
Remember that giant ball thing on top of Old St RDB?

https://n0tice-static.s3.amazonaws.com/images/reports/microblogs/mediumoriginalaspectdouble/13829588426261895677466c3e5fb29fa65956c40d381.jpg
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 28 October, 2013, 12:51:05 pm
Quote from: alexb on 28 October, 2013, 10:16:25 am
Anyone travelling eastbound along the Embankment is sure to get a PB today!

Counting on that for tonight  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 29 October, 2013, 09:22:25 am
Tailwind blew me in. I didn't come in yesterday as I could WFH but this morning I was pootling in not really putting in a great amount of effort. Nearly at work it then occurred to me that I had been at least 2 gears higher than normal for the whole trip! Still it was cold enough for me to wear my winter kit!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 29 October, 2013, 09:25:36 am
The windy was blustery this morning, and always from the wrong direction! :(

Poundtoapinchofshit it turns around before home time!

Not cold enough, for me, for winter stuff yet, but too cold for summer stuff, so somewhere in between for me :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 29 October, 2013, 09:48:58 am
Still in shorts and short sleeves, here... 29th October!

On my pootle from megacorp central to megacorp satellite this morning (so in white shirt and suit trousers - relevant I'm sure), going through narrow the back streets around Southwark Station. Three LGV approaching, one signalling to cross and park on their offside (my side of the road), I hold back and pedal slow to let the first park and the other two pass, there is little room and I also want to turn right. As they pass I raise my right arm to signal and whop! sideswipe a Road Warrior who obviously had to go fast at this point. No damage done to any but I shout out "nice one!" intended to make him consider the wisdom of his actions. From his look, it was clearly my fault. Ho hum, it really isn't all car drivers.....

There is an argument that I should have looked, while I always do in moving conditions, I sometimes don't make that double check for stupid arseholes in slow moving situations that someone coming up should read. Another example was the other night, at Mile End. Car signalling left, I place myself on his offside and stick myself to his corner, coming into the nearside as he completes his turn. Again, I didn't expect a cyclist to come through at full bore on the inside.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 29 October, 2013, 10:15:26 am
Chilly wind this morning. Legwarmers and thin merino under ss lycra.
Absolutely dead, no strength. Could have been the wind, but I think it was me :|
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 29 October, 2013, 07:37:05 pm
had to take the car for service today, so instead of 1/2 a mile t each end of a 13 mile train journey I stuck the bike in the car and rode the 3 mile each way between the garage and work.  :thumbsup:

All because mum's still not allowed to drive. guess who has paid for the service. :hand:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 30 October, 2013, 01:34:56 pm
It was noticeably colder this morning, though lovely and clear in most places.

I wish I had a camera with me for the sunrise though- the effect of the rising sun seen through mist behind which was a stand of weeping willows was magical.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 30 October, 2013, 02:09:48 pm
Yep - that's the first morning where I have thought "well that's a bit chilly"!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 30 October, 2013, 02:14:08 pm
Not my commute, but my daughters via her twitter feed... Made me laugh.
(https://twitter.com/franceslmdavis/status/395481664685494272)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 30 October, 2013, 04:06:44 pm
57k ride in this morning in Oklahoma, half an hour in and a mahoosive thunderstorm started and strong headwinds started.

It took me 2hours 50 to ride in through this storm, compared to only 2 hours on yesterday's ride home.  A full 50 minutes longer.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 30 October, 2013, 05:01:08 pm
Drivers were very hooty all the way this evening.  (At each other, not at me)
I was much earlier than usual.   Maybe it's normal for late afternoon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 30 October, 2013, 05:24:56 pm
Quote from: Basil on 30 October, 2013, 05:01:08 pm
Drivers were very hooty all the way this evening.  (At each other, not at me)
I was much earlier than usual.   Maybe it's normal for late afternoon.

I was wondering whether the Christmas bad driving had started early this year...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 30 October, 2013, 06:01:58 pm
I got hooted. And then hooted some more by a van behind me. No idea why, there was a car in front of me and I was travelling the same speed.

Eventually at the junction, he starts shouting something at me. Here we go, I think. Anyway 'he was a in a hurry' and 'I was blocking the road'. Whatever, I can't be arsed arguing. I told him I'd call his boss. 'Ha,' he says archly, 'you don't know who I work for.'

Well, he's wearing a fluorescent top that says Apetito on it, and driving a van that says Apetito/Mobile Chef all over it, along with 'serving Croydon Council'.

I reckon I can figure it out. I'm figuring you don't have to pass an exam to get to deliver meals-on-wheels.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 30 October, 2013, 06:04:20 pm
That's wierd in December when the evening traffic is heavier into town than out as everyone rushes in for the late night opening of the 99p shop or something.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 30 October, 2013, 06:05:14 pm
Quote from: ian on 30 October, 2013, 06:01:58 pm

Well, he's wearing a fluorescent top that says Apetito on it, and driving a van that says Apetito/Mobile Chef all over it, along with 'serving Croydon Council'.

I reckon I can figure it out.

Tricky investigation. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 30 October, 2013, 06:13:36 pm
Quote from: ian on 30 October, 2013, 06:01:58 pm
I got hooted. And then hooted some more by a van behind me. No idea why, there was a car in front of me and I was travelling the same speed.

Eventually at the junction, he starts shouting something at me. Here we go, I think. Anyway 'he was a in a hurry' and 'I was blocking the road'. Whatever, I can't be arsed arguing. I told him I'd call his boss. 'Ha,' he says archly, 'you don't know who I work for.'

Well, he's wearing a fluorescent top that says Apetito on it, and driving a van that says Apetito/Mobile Chef all over it, along with 'serving Croydon Council'.

I reckon I can figure it out. I'm figuring you don't have to pass an exam to get to deliver meals-on-wheels.

That's what you think. He actually works for the BBC as a researcher for the Brain of Britain
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 30 October, 2013, 06:18:18 pm
Or possibly the NSA.

Certainly not meals on wheels.  Disability is theft, remember.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 30 October, 2013, 06:30:23 pm
Woman in Seat Ibiza had broken down in a very dodgy place on a three-lane dual carriageway, causing chaos.  Clueless police stopped and had a chat with her.  I pushed the car to the nearest bus stop.  Police hung around, presumably to see if I was a rapist or not, but didn't really help  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 30 October, 2013, 06:31:42 pm
I just had one of those rides home where you arrive grinning while muddy and dripping wet through :D

Sanity put in a box for a while including taking a mountain bike for a route with very little opportunity to give it a workout, but I enjoyed myself :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 31 October, 2013, 09:51:14 am
It was mildly moist this morning but still not a bad trip in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 31 October, 2013, 12:56:34 pm
This morning my alarm failed to sound. Eventually I got up and thought I should have got up twenty minutes ago.  I did not hurry I did not think arriving a  quarter an hour later mattered, provided I don't make a habit of it. As I was getting to leave my father comes down stairs and shows me how to tell the time. It was a quarter to nine not a quarter to eight as I thought. Oh dear.  Nice quiet roads to ride on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 31 October, 2013, 05:50:34 pm
For some reason I quite liked my trip home. Was a nice one.

Also clocked up my 3000km for the year during it too!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moultonaught on 01 November, 2013, 09:38:11 am
I was in the car but as I drove through one of the villages between Watlington and Nettlebed I noticed a bike leaning against a bus shelter with the rider asleep inside! Hope he was having a good ride...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 01 November, 2013, 01:44:15 pm
Yesterday, 0640. In secondary. The car that passed at speed actually clipped the loose material of my right sleeve with his mirror.

Guess the make of car.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Northstar on 01 November, 2013, 03:35:25 pm
Audi, BMW, 4x4, Volvo....i could go on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 01 November, 2013, 05:45:59 pm
BMW
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 01 November, 2013, 06:21:23 pm
Another aggressive hooter. Must be the week for them. Fat American-style pickup truck this time. Fat American-style driver, evidently levered in, like Jabba-the-Hutt in a telephone booth.

Oddly, as soon as I heard the beep behind me, I was struck down with a sudden, inexplicable feeling of lethargy in my legs. It took me ages to reach the junction. My recovery was nothing short of miraculous.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 02 November, 2013, 08:19:16 am
Funny that, when those oh-so-keen-drivers edging out or round want to turn out our turn across me, I slow down, so if they do, I can stop. All takes so much longer, really, than if they stayed still.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 04 November, 2013, 09:45:43 am
Cold fingers that burned when they warmed up. Owey! Better quality and fitting gloves now required!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 04 November, 2013, 12:09:04 pm
First off of the winter, semi-frozen chutney ended up with me sliding down the road into oncoming traffic. Thankfully the car stopped, few bruises but live to ride again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 04 November, 2013, 12:11:06 pm
How's the bike? The trousers?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 04 November, 2013, 12:14:02 pm
Twas so slippy that my tights aren't even burnt, think funfair slide  ;D , bike seems ok, I completed my commute with no issues, suspect thers a few more scratches though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 04 November, 2013, 12:33:39 pm
Where was everybody today? Haven't seen so few cyclists on my commute for years. Can't be the weather putting them off already, surely?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 04 November, 2013, 12:42:31 pm
Seen on the south side of Southwark Bridge, southbound, this morning, a couple of chaps involved in a lively discussion with much arm-waving:

Chap 1: sitting down, blood streaming from his forehead, bike lying down nearby.
Chap 2: Motorcycle courier, standing, bike propped up nearby.

I didn't stop because: a) I hadn't seen the incident, so had no value as a witness; b) other bystanders were already on hand to offer any practical assistance required; and c) I was running late for work.

But if the cyclist was anyone here, I do hope you're OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 04 November, 2013, 12:47:35 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 04 November, 2013, 12:33:39 pm
Where was everybody today? Haven't seen so few cyclists on my commute for years. Can't be the weather putting them off already, surely?

Depends where you are and what time you set off, I suppose.

The home>station leg of my commute, at the East Kend end, was grim - stinging icy rain, arctic winds, several big puddles/small lakes, roads turned into gullies...

But the station>office leg at the London end was bathed in autumnal sunshine, albeit rather chilly.

No ice, at least.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 04 November, 2013, 12:56:03 pm
Fair point. Mine is a completely urban commute from SE London to the centre, so it was chilly (and v windy going over Blackheath) but not treacherous.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 04 November, 2013, 01:03:24 pm
I did not commute today because I have some niggles from the Upper Thames 200k and am able to use the car today and tomorrow, but not Thursday or Friday, so this is my chance to be lazy.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 04 November, 2013, 01:29:38 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 04 November, 2013, 12:33:39 pm
Where was everybody today? Haven't seen so few cyclists on my commute for years. Can't be the weather putting them off already, surely?

Possibly it's the dark evenings.  It's not so much the weather that's putting them off, it's the fact that they have no idea how you buy lights.

(Yes, I know some of them don't bother with such trivia)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 04 November, 2013, 01:44:43 pm
cyclepath a bit slippery (lots of frost).

Chunks of ice - fallen from cars and lorries I suspect.

Puncture. Dammit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 05 November, 2013, 08:17:42 am
Drizzly as I left the hiouse, but no wind and mild.

The rain increased as I got about half way, but still no wind and mild.

The chutney was real nasty today, especially on the 90degree left after the P&R.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 05 November, 2013, 08:50:15 am
Dry cycle in but the roads were wet and covered in crap. Still quite a few people out on CS7 and down to Victoria across Chelsea Bridge, quite a few of whom really need to go and take their cycling proficency badge again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 05 November, 2013, 08:26:12 pm
First commute in three weeks. Hard work. But on the bike again so it's all good.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 06 November, 2013, 10:22:11 am
I had to divert from usual route because of this:  http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-north-east-orkney-shetland-24833444
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 06 November, 2013, 11:35:22 am
Bristol has the highest proportion of cycle commuters in Britain, according to some unreliable statistics from TomTom. (http://www.bristolpost.co.uk/Driving-Bristol-isn-t-getting-easier-city-remains/story-20040115-detail/story.html)
Quote
The report says Bristol has the highest proportion of people cycling to work in Britain and suggests cycling may be the best option for navigating through the city, especially the centre.
It would be totally impractical for me to cycle to work - the gangway corridor passageway tunnel hall is too narrow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 06 November, 2013, 01:28:20 pm
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 06 November, 2013, 11:35:22 am
Bristol has the highest proportion of cycle commuters in Britain, according to some unreliable statistics from TomTom. (http://www.bristolpost.co.uk/Driving-Bristol-isn-t-getting-easier-city-remains/story-20040115-detail/story.html)
Quote
The report says Bristol has the highest proportion of people cycling to work in Britain and suggests cycling may be the best option for navigating through the city, especially the centre.
It would be totally impractical for me to cycle to work - the gangway corridor passageway tunnel hall is too narrow.

I contest that.  Birmingham has the highest proportion of cycle commuters in Britain, according to some unreliable statistics from Cycleguard. (http://www.birminghampost.co.uk/news/birmingham-cycle-work-capital-uk-6215643)   :D

(I reckon their interpretation is wrong, and what those unreliable statistics actually show is that Birmingham is the least pleasant place to ride a bike unless you really have to.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 06 November, 2013, 01:28:35 pm
I watched a classic two lanes merging to one bunfight between two cars today. The second car, had he been able to overtake would then have braked hard and turned right into a driveway (because having not been able to fight to the front of the queue, that's what he did!), so why he seemed so aggrieved I have no idea.

On the plus side, the lack of wind today allowed me to spin the bike up to a couple of runs at over 48kph which means I have the fun of overtaking not only any traffic in front of me, but also closing the gap up to everything caught at the lights in front.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil W on 06 November, 2013, 06:31:09 pm
Watched the car in front of me slide into the car in front at junction at bottom of steep hill.  Wet road and leaves. Poor young girl was terrified when big bloke got out , but he said kind words to her and calmed her. I was only witness but they didn't ask for my details. Oh well I cycle that road daily, so they'll know where I am if any disputes.

Still wearing shorts, when will it get proper cold?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 06 November, 2013, 06:52:22 pm
Wetter than Marty Pellow's underpants. That kind of drizzle that doesn't seem too bad but has the power to penetrate everywhere, even the parts that don't see regularly see sunlight. On the plus side it wasn't too cold and I'd packed a bag of dry clothes (thank Ortlieb). Delighted to see the wall on the awkward corner (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/preview#!data=!1m8!1m3!1d3!2d-0.067333!3d51.408447!2m2!1f170.53!2f80.07!4f75!2m7!1e1!2m2!1s_GKdVQ-T-hMU9m1YSCcoTA!2e0!5m2!1s_GKdVQ-T-hMU9m1YSCcoTA!2e0&fid=5) has a new car-shaped hole in it. It did stay fixed for a record three months this time. Also a lady decided that rather than give me the opportunity to pull out from a side road, that she'd accelerate hard to make sure there was no gap* (I wasn't going to bother anyway, it was obvious that traffic was coming to a halt). That meant she kissed bumpers with the stationary car two spaces in front, in the long line of traffic leading back from the strengthening works on Goat House Bridge. Probably not hard enough to cause any damage. I resisted a HA-HA.

*I suppose she might not have noticed me waiting and perhaps just drives like that all the time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 06 November, 2013, 07:27:24 pm
Quote from: Pingu on 06 November, 2013, 10:22:11 am
I had to divert from usual route because of this:  http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-north-east-orkney-shetland-24833444

I didn't. I was norty and rode right past the Road Closed sign. All was out, the firefighters were sort of standing about and they weren't stopping peds from using the pavement. All the fire water on the road had started to freeze though.  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Henry on 07 November, 2013, 08:29:07 am
Walking to work today (as when I work at the central hospital, there's no secure bike parking) spotted a guy in just shorts and short-sleeved jersey of a Bristol cycling club. Hello my friend it's WINTER! He was on a Pinarello with no mudguards, of course.

Inverse snobbery, me..?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Reg.T on 07 November, 2013, 08:45:10 am
Usual mix of steady bike progress with accordion-style of motorised vehicles on the A4 towards Bath this morning. Lorry took exception to my 3rd pass which meant I delayed him getting to his next queue by a couple of seconds, so rewarded me with blaring horns and a close pass. My gesture in response earned me some abuse on my 5th pass (which he stopped on a clear DC to deliver). Thankfully I don't see this level of professional driving too often.

Final score: 6-5  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 07 November, 2013, 08:54:07 am
Oh bloody hell!  I got off my bike at work and immediately felt that something didn’t look right.
No pannier.

Stupid boy!

Oh well, only a shirt and matching socks and sandwiches missing.  Black shoes and trousers already in locker.

Socks, I have an emergency pair in my ped.  I also have a little V neck sweater stashed there too.

It’s not a great look – Green YACF top with half the front logo peeping through the v neck.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 07 November, 2013, 09:23:41 am
Pootle in having dropped the boy off on the trail-a-bike. I am becoming more convinced that the bloody thing is not a good idea with a road bike on 25s.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 07 November, 2013, 09:57:36 am
Quote from: menthel on 07 November, 2013, 09:23:41 am
I am becoming more convinced that the bloody thing is not a good idea with a road bike on 25s.

Safety concerns? Or is it just dispiriting because he can get the power down better?

Sorry to take the opportunity to be flippant, but I am actually interested in the issues around using a road bike as a tractor unit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 07 November, 2013, 10:17:35 am
Quote from: benborp on 07 November, 2013, 09:57:36 am
Quote from: menthel on 07 November, 2013, 09:23:41 am
I am becoming more convinced that the bloody thing is not a good idea with a road bike on 25s.

Safety concerns? Or is it just dispiriting because he can get the power down better?

Sorry to take the opportunity to be flippant, but I am actually interested in the issues around using a road bike as a tractor unit.
I've used various trailers and tag along bikes/trikes on various bikes.

You really need a stable steady steering setup and the ability to put both feet down when stopping. Delicately balancing on one cleat at lights is a difficult proposition when the tagalong occupant throws their weight to the wrong side.

Choosing your track can be a bit more fraught; you can end up slamming through holes and over grooves so that the tagalong wheel misses them. So fat tyres are a good idea.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 07 November, 2013, 10:20:10 am
Quote from: benborp on 07 November, 2013, 09:57:36 am
Quote from: menthel on 07 November, 2013, 09:23:41 am
I am becoming more convinced that the bloody thing is not a good idea with a road bike on 25s.

Safety concerns? Or is it just dispiriting because he can get the power down better?

Sorry to take the opportunity to be flippant, but I am actually interested in the issues around using a road bike as a tractor unit.

Its all a bit wobbly. Also, the boy being 4 means he gets distracted easily and I can feel him shifting his weight on the back. Its fine for the route we do but I am not sure I would want to do longer journeys on busier roads. I feel the whole thing would probably be more stable on a bike with bigger tyres and wider handlebars but then I would be back to a hybrid for the rest of my journey and not having as much fun as I do on the road bike, which could discourage me from the rest of my commute! I will stick to slight wobbling at present.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 07 November, 2013, 10:49:37 am
I think someone was trying to tell me something. I woke up feeling shattered this morning so decided to drive to work for once. As i got to the end of the road there was a massive queue heading (I thought) North, so as I was driving south I carried on. Then found out they were heading north because of a big crash on the only main road in the area (fatal collision between a truck and a motorcyclist :().

My 6 mile, 20-25min cycle commute ended up being a 1h10 trip 15 miles round over a fell road. I should have just turned the car round at the end of the street and cycled in ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 07 November, 2013, 11:11:15 am
I was overtaken very slowly and carefully and with loads of room by a truck. Followed by a cop-car but that wasn't the reason, the truck was being driven by a trainee under instruction. The van following the cop-car also passed me very wide. :)

I actually got held up on the following climb by the truck being very cautious overtaking a cyclist ahead who was slower than me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 07 November, 2013, 12:08:55 pm
Quote from: Basil on 07 November, 2013, 08:54:07 am
Oh bloody hell!  I got off my bike at work and immediately felt that something didn’t look right.
No pannier.

Stupid boy!

Oh well, only a shirt and matching socks and sandwiches missing.  Black shoes and trousers already in locker.

Socks, I have an emergency pair in my ped.  I also have a little V neck sweater stashed there too.

It’s not a great look – Green YACF top with half the front logo peeping through the v neck.

Glad its not just me then, I'm sitting at my desk wearing one of these:

http://www.bloodycyclist.com/product/bloodycyclist-cycling-jersey/

fortunately trousers kept at work, the rest is superfluous
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 07 November, 2013, 08:04:45 pm
On the way home today there was a twunt of a driver who decided it was entirely sensible to drive westbound on the east bound carriageway of the mile end road. This is just at the crossroads by mile end station. Those of you that know this will realise that it is an awesome enterprise and is an obvious solution to getting to the eastbound parking spaces without troubling yourself about such niceties as traffic laws or mowing down cyclists. (Yes it is across a bit of blue paint -about 100 metres)

However, ten metres more towards the west was something of more than a little interest. A substantial police sting operation pulling over cars without tax or insurance. Of course this did mean they were all facing the other way, but I thought it worth my while to back up that short distance and alert the boys and girls in blue. As the evidence was there on the road in the shape of the tyre marks I would like to think they had a word or two with the gent who was still in the car. I didn't stay to find out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 07 November, 2013, 08:26:07 pm
nearly got taken out thrice today: left hook by a driver (no indicators, driver very apologetic), courier cyclist (changing lanes without looking back when i was about to overtake him) and a jaywalking pedestrian. one of those days.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 07 November, 2013, 08:41:13 pm
Pointed out to a driver by Dulwich College that her skinny little rear tyre was flat. That being the flubbery flub flub noise her posh little BMW convertible was making. She stuck her head out of the window in a very vague attempt to see the back of her car and said 'oh' and then without further ado drove off. Flubber flub flub. Followed by the nice sccccrrrringe noise as she thoughtfully polished the tops of the speed bumps with the rear-end of her undoubtedly expensive car.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 07 November, 2013, 10:50:23 pm
Superb.

Burdett Rd. Hackney, southbound, this evening.
Polis car parked up, two wheels on the pavement.
Go-faster Clio (or something similar - I'm not sufficiently interested to be able to identify) similarly parked in front of it.
BIG Sticker in window of Clio:
"NO INSURANCE. VEHICLE SEIZED BY POLICE"
 :thumbsup:
oops!
Bye, uninsured car.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 07 November, 2013, 11:07:19 pm
^^^^ They were out in force on Mile End Road/Burdett Road :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 07 November, 2013, 11:29:30 pm
Multiple instances of atrocious driving crossing Bristol this evening, and the addition of a scream from the passenger window of a passing car on the A38 between Lye Cross and Churchill.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 08 November, 2013, 09:19:06 am
Full house  :thumbsup:

Tue:     Muppet #1 tries same wipeout (as several years ago) at Ashbury X
Wed:   Muppet #2 tries same...
Today: Muppet #3 turns right in village while I'm 2 metres away...all anchors out. Enough is Enough - the airhead got edjukated ;D

Seen: Doe by Ashdown House, Nutella brown thru jet black - never seen one that shade before.

Bring on next week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 08 November, 2013, 09:32:50 am
Classic idiocy outside Goldsmiths at about 7.30 this morning. 

Big tipper truck parked in bus lane facing towards town, its driver waiting patiently for a chance to pull out into the main traffic lane; three cyclists approach along bus lane just as the tipper truck driver makes his move out into the main lane, but then whacks his vehicle into reverse and starts driving backwards across the bus lane into the courtyard at the front of Goldsmiths.  I'd gone round the outside of the truck, as it was clearly connected with the major building works at the College and it wasn't clear what it was going to do next. 

What struck me was that (a) the cyclists who squeezed through the gap behind the truck were a bit rash in assuming that the truck wasn't going to start reversing and (b) why the hell didn't the tipper truck driver have a banksman to help him reverse across a busy bus lane?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 08 November, 2013, 09:39:32 am
Quote from: PaulR on 08 November, 2013, 09:32:50 am
Classic idiocy outside Goldsmiths at about 7.30 this morning. 

Big tipper truck parked in bus lane facing towards town, its driver waiting patiently for a chance to pull out into the main traffic lane; three cyclists approach along bus lane just as the tipper truck driver makes his move out into the main lane, but then whacks his vehicle into reverse and starts driving backwards across the bus lane into the courtyard at the front of Goldsmiths.  I'd gone round the outside of the truck, as it was clearly connected with the major building works at the College and it wasn't clear what it was going to do next. 

What struck me was that (a) the cyclists who squeezed through the gap behind the truck were a bit rash in assuming that the truck wasn't going to start reversing and (b) why the hell didn't the tipper truck driver have a banksman to help him reverse across a busy bus lane?

Worth a note to Goldsmiths, I would have thought. Sounds like if there had been an incident, whoever is in charge might have been criminally responsible under the corporate banner.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 November, 2013, 10:00:42 am
I think that any vehicle in London found reversing without a banksman should be seized by Police.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 08 November, 2013, 10:42:25 am
Amusing incident last night on the way home.

At the top end of Grays Inn Rd, the one-way bit as you approach Kings Cross, I was in lane 2 in order to go round a bus at a bus stop in lane 1, but then the bus started signalling to pull out, so I slowed down and waited for him - I always give way to buses as a matter of principle.

The bus driver, no doubt perplexed by this untypical act of politesse routière, hesitated slightly before starting to pull out, which unfortunately gave the twunt behind me a chance to swerve round and go past, forcing not only the bus driver to hit the brakes hard but also the driver in lane 3, whose territory he had to encroach on to pass me.

No prizes if you guessed that the twunt behind me was at the wheel of an Addison Lee people carrier.

That's not the amusing bit.

Moments later, as I passed said twunt in the queuing traffic a couple of hundred metres up the road, I looked at the driver and shook my head ruefully. I could almost feel his blood pressure instantly rising as he indicated his approbation in the customary manner, but I just carried on my way with a sense of smug self-satisfaction, leaving him stuck in the traffic, having made no material gain whatsoever from his needlessly aggressive driving.

That's the amusing bit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 08 November, 2013, 11:05:24 am
Started raining a little bit as I set off. Was thinking about catching the train but time was tight and stopping to put jacket on, and being a little slow today, put paid to that, so I cycled all the way, with the rain getting steadily heavier and me wetter.

There was a massive diesel spill in central bristol too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 08 November, 2013, 11:18:45 am
Nothing happened.

There's still a gert big 'ole in Hull Road at Melrosegate lights (yet another collapsed water main - Yorkshire Water investment FTW  ::-) ) so I diverted up Thief Lane and did a bit of 'neighbourhooding'  before diverting down Tang Hall Lane and encountering yet another bloody set of roadworks  :facepalm: Note to the utility companies: work tends to get done more quickly if there are actually people, y'know, working.

Was nowt but chilly this morning (varying between 3.5 and 4C according to the GPS) - time to get the big woolly socks out, I reckon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 08 November, 2013, 11:36:01 am
Sometimes a part of utilities works consist of waiting for concrete to reach its rated strength or other time-consuming actions (dewatering a pit?). No need to have somebody doing anything on site every day in those cases.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CJBrewer on 08 November, 2013, 01:00:53 pm
Yesterday night -- I find Thursday evenings are always the worst for impatient driving.

Tailgated along a stretch of (pitch black) narrow country lane -- no way for the driver to pass...  I simply did what I do when I'm driving and someone does that; carefully slowed down to a safe speed and was very careful as I turned off. I don't think the driver understood why I was holding my palm up in a "STOP" sign at them. Shrug

Then overtaken by a boy racer in a silver hatchback, up a hill (quite busy A road though only wide enough for two cars; 30mph). I could clearly see the oncoming lights around the blind bend; his ignorance of my warning signal very, very nearly ended up with a serious collision. Idiot (although he did give me plenty of clearance).

Also overtaken safely and wide by a number of sensibly driven vehicles, including one that was patient enough to follow me down the other side of the hill at around 25mph and waited for me to slow at my (right turn) junction.  So not all bad. I suspect the combo of a flashing fibre-flare (mounted on my pannier rack) and a standard LED rear light on static helps the sensible drivers to pass safely.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 08 November, 2013, 10:54:56 pm
I decided to be lazy and take the train. Bad move. Work to home 2h10, would have been 1h45 at worst had I cycled the whole way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 08 November, 2013, 11:04:35 pm
Quote from: clarion on 08 November, 2013, 10:00:42 am
I think that any vehicle in London found reversing without a banksman should be seized by Police.
Srsly?
That's probably quite a lot of cars.
Don't you think?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 08 November, 2013, 11:06:00 pm
In the midst of the epic rain, I got waved through some roadworks onto a newly tarmacced road which was literally sizzling as the rain hit it. I rode for about 100 metres through clouds of steam. At one point it did occur to me to wonder at what temperatures the tyres would melt...but then onto the old section of road and back into the wind again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 November, 2013, 03:53:03 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 08 November, 2013, 11:04:35 pm
Quote from: clarion on 08 November, 2013, 10:00:42 am
I think that any vehicle in London found reversing without a banksman should be seized by Police.
Srsly?
That's probably quite a lot of cars.
Don't you think?

I realise I left the word 'commercial' out of that sentence.  Typing on a phone reduces your tolerance for long words ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cycleman on 09 November, 2013, 07:03:03 pm
i think that it was fine as it was  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 10 November, 2013, 09:11:06 am
Quote from: PaulR on 08 November, 2013, 09:32:50 am
Classic idiocy outside Goldsmiths at about 7.30 this morning. 

Big tipper truck parked in bus lane facing towards town, its driver waiting patiently for a chance to pull out into the main traffic lane; three cyclists approach along bus lane just as the tipper truck driver makes his move out into the main lane, but then whacks his vehicle into reverse and starts driving backwards across the bus lane into the courtyard at the front of Goldsmiths.  I'd gone round the outside of the truck, as it was clearly connected with the major building works at the College and it wasn't clear what it was going to do next. 

What struck me was that (a) the cyclists who squeezed through the gap behind the truck were a bit rash in assuming that the truck wasn't going to start reversing and (b) why the hell didn't the tipper truck driver have a banksman to help him reverse across a busy bus lane?

I've posted before about a coach driver turning into a "local buses only" road, failing, and reversing back on to a ped crossing on green man.

Well this week I saw it again - I shouted at the driver and pointed at the pedestrians he was backing into. He shrugged in a "what can I do" way and carried on. I pointed at the dead end sign, and he told me to fuck off. The coach was not local - Victoria to Stansted - so this can't be on the designated route. Either they both missed their previous turning or this is an (illegal) short cut. I hope the cameras there issue fines.

The same morning there was an artic reversing into a minor road from Canon St without a banksman - hordes of peds nipping across behind him, no chance of him seeing them given the angle of the cab.

Quote from: clarion on 08 November, 2013, 10:00:42 am
I think that any vehicle in London found reversing without a banksman should be seized by Police.

This. They can't do it on site, why should it be allowed out in public?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 11 November, 2013, 09:29:13 am
Harrumph. 

I have discussed the banksman question with someone whom I took to be fairly senior in traffic police circles, and he listened sympathetically but said that, as far as he was aware, there was no requirement for a banksman in these circumstances.  He said that on some of the crossrail construction sites the contractors had given up on the usual banksman role and started using barriers intead, because so many cyclists we ignoring the banksman.  He didn't seem to appreciate that in the scaenario I had seen it was the lack of a banksman that resulted in the cyclists simply not knowing that a truck was about to reverse across their path.

But they did give me the name of someone at Goldsmiths who may be responsible for site safety issues.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 11 November, 2013, 09:40:26 am
Quote from: PaulR on 11 November, 2013, 09:29:13 am
Harrumph. 

I have discussed the banksman question with someone whom I took to be fairly senior in traffic police circles, and he listened sympathetically but said that, as far as he was aware, there was no requirement for a banksman in these circumstances.  He said that on some of the crossrail construction sites the contractors had given up on the usual banksman role and started using barriers intead, because so many cyclists we ignoring the banksman.  He didn't seem to appreciate that in the scaenario I had seen it was the lack of a banksman that resulted in the cyclists simply not knowing that a truck was about to reverse across their path.

But they did give me the name of someone at Goldsmiths who may be responsible for site safety issues.
Paul

Have a look if the site is registered with the "Considerate Constructors Scheme" it may be that a complaint through those channels with regard failure to appropriately manage the vehicle movements at the site (e.g. timing in the rush hour and lack of banksman) gets a positive response or explanation.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 11 November, 2013, 09:46:05 am
In less lethal news:

CYCLIST WITH KILLER LAZER BEAMS OF DEATH.
Angle the fucking things down a touch, will you?

At least cars blinding me are past at 40-60mph. You're doing 10.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 11 November, 2013, 10:49:53 am
I had a tiresome punishment pass today from someone who objected to me refusing to be run off the road into the back of a parked car. They then jumped a zebra crossing with a young lady mid-way across...
They were about 10 cars back at the lights when I rode past. I saw that the driver's window was down and was expecting some abuse, but nothing.
Pointless and useless as ever.

Other than that, it was quite a nice ride in - I had a good tailwind on an unusual part of my commute, which transformed a slightly plodding slightly uphill drag into a virtual downhill.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 11 November, 2013, 11:19:14 am
Quote from: Jurek on 08 November, 2013, 11:04:35 pm
Quote from: clarion on 08 November, 2013, 10:00:42 am
I think that any vehicle in London found reversing without a banksman should be seized by Police.
Srsly?
That's probably quite a lot of cars.
Don't you think?

Cars in London shouldn't have a banksman. But they should all have a chap running in front with a red flag.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 11 November, 2013, 11:22:07 am
Turning into Shorter Street from the north, as it was as shitty traffic as ever (http://goo.gl/maps/ksct7 oooo look what I found in Google maps)  I am in primary behind a bus, who then indicates left to pull in, I continue straight ahead in my line. Ton-up-tony on his scooter sees a GREEN LIGHT so decides it is essential to rev up and pass on the inside,  >! !<   that far away.

As might be expected at this point, before he has got up to full racing speed, the lights have changed to red and he has to stop.

I think, soddit, let's tell him. So I did. His reaction "I don't know what you mean". So I explain. In words even should have been able to understand, some of them were even printable. Basically, we're all on two wheels, let's stay upright on them, eh? Cue thumbsup from around 4 listening motorcyclists who had seen what had happened.

Think he (not in his first flush of youth, either) was suitably chastened. Maybe he'll think next time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 November, 2013, 11:36:19 am
Quote from: citoyen on 11 November, 2013, 11:19:14 am
Quote from: Jurek on 08 November, 2013, 11:04:35 pm
Quote from: clarion on 08 November, 2013, 10:00:42 am
I think that any vehicle in London found reversing without a banksman should be seized by Police.
Srsly?
That's probably quite a lot of cars.
Don't you think?

Cars in London shouldn't have a banksman. But they should all have a chap running in front with a red flag.

I have advocated this for some time.  And not necessarily running, either.  Walking would be more civilised and sociable.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 11 November, 2013, 12:42:44 pm
As I started my commute this morning there was a lorry parked beside the golf course. I turned into the urban, wide, part of the lane and the lorry followed me. I turned the left right angle bend but the lorry did not follow. Its good when a driver overrides his GPS before it is too late.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 11 November, 2013, 12:43:47 pm
I was digging for another document on the Exhibition Road project and found the latest monitoring report (PDF download here: http://www.rbkc.gov.uk/subsites/exhibitionroad.aspx ). It's quite telling that for a road with a 20mph speed limit, the 85th percentile speed is well into the mid 20's and in some cases pretty close to 30mph (page 17).
I think a note to the council questioning the lack of enforcement is in order.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 11 November, 2013, 01:22:35 pm
Quote from: clarion on 11 November, 2013, 11:36:19 am
Quote from: citoyen on 11 November, 2013, 11:19:14 am
Quote from: Jurek on 08 November, 2013, 11:04:35 pm
Quote from: clarion on 08 November, 2013, 10:00:42 am
I think that any vehicle in London found reversing without a banksman should be seized by Police.
Srsly?
That's probably quite a lot of cars.
Don't you think?

Cars in London shouldn't have a banksman. But they should all have a chap running in front with a red flag.

I have advocated this for some time.  And not necessarily running, either.  Walking would be more civilised and sociable.

As we queued with the motor traffic on the way to Brighton last sunday, I pondered on irony, law of unintended consequences and whether the drivers of the Veteran cars were aware of either.

More seriously, TFL run a scheme, the name of which escapes me, which lays down minimum standards their contractors must follow with respect to goods vehicle movement.  I'm not sure if Banksmen are a requirement in this.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 12 November, 2013, 10:42:00 am
Autumn ... season of mists, mellow fruitfulness, chutney-covered descents and ....

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc3/1471346_10151699338761636_1410211804_n.jpg)

chain fail  ::-)

85 minutes to do 10 sodding miles  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 November, 2013, 10:52:29 am
That's a bad thing, isn't it?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 12 November, 2013, 10:54:49 am
Quote from: interzen on 12 November, 2013, 10:42:00 am
Autumn ... season of mists, mellow fruitfulness, chutney-covered descents and ....

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc3/1471346_10151699338761636_1410211804_n.jpg)

chain fail  ::-)

85 minutes to do 10 sodding miles  :facepalm:

Now I'm no expert on these things, but I am pretty certain they are not supposed to look like that! :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 12 November, 2013, 10:55:22 am
Quote from: interzen on 12 November, 2013, 10:42:00 am
Autumn ... season of mists, mellow fruitfulness, chutney-covered descents and ....

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc3/1471346_10151699338761636_1410211804_n.jpg)

chain fail  ::-)

85 minutes to do 10 sodding miles  :facepalm:

Judging by the overlap on the back plate of the link, the link hasn't 'closed' properly has it?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 12 November, 2013, 10:59:27 am
That'll buff out!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 12 November, 2013, 10:59:35 am
Quote from: fuzzy on 12 November, 2013, 10:55:22 am
Quote from: interzen on 12 November, 2013, 10:42:00 am
Autumn ... season of mists, mellow fruitfulness, chutney-covered descents and ....

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc3/1471346_10151699338761636_1410211804_n.jpg)

chain fail  ::-)

85 minutes to do 10 sodding miles  :facepalm:

Judging by the overlap on the back plate of the link, the link hasn't 'closed' properly has it?
The 'front' plate had bent - this was my attempt to put it back together again.
It got me to the nearest bike shop (about 2 miles) before the 'rear' plate snapped.

I bought that particular shop's last 9-speed split link, so it'll be over to Evans at lunchtime to get another one.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 12 November, 2013, 11:02:05 am
Quote from: interzen on 12 November, 2013, 10:59:35 am
Quote from: fuzzy on 12 November, 2013, 10:55:22 am
Quote from: interzen on 12 November, 2013, 10:42:00 am
Autumn ... season of mists, mellow fruitfulness, chutney-covered descents and ....

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc3/1471346_10151699338761636_1410211804_n.jpg)

chain fail  ::-)

85 minutes to do 10 sodding miles  :facepalm:

Judging by the overlap on the back plate of the link, the link hasn't 'closed' properly has it?
The 'front' plate had bent - this was my attempt to put it back together again.
It got me to the nearest bike shop (about 2 miles) before the 'rear' plate snapped.

I bought that particular shop's last 9-speed split link, so it'll be over to Evans at lunchtime to get another one.

Ah! All is now clear :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 12 November, 2013, 11:03:43 am
I recently caught my half link section in the fixie chain doing something simillar. I dread to think how long I had been riding with only one plate taking the power and leg braking.  :-[ :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 12 November, 2013, 11:07:30 am
Quote from: matthew on 12 November, 2013, 11:03:43 am
I recently caught my half link section in the fixie chain doing something simillar. I dread to think how long I had been riding with only one plate taking the power and leg braking.  :-[ :o
This was on my fixed 29er ...

I don't do leg braking, but a 19st rider and a 58" gear probably adds up to a significant amount of torque ... on the plus side, at least it didn't go pop on the Tunnels Ride (the last ride I did on this particular bike)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tom_e on 12 November, 2013, 11:12:22 am
I'm hoping my chain doesn't have a bit like that somewhere in it.  On my way home yesterday a loose pannier strap picked an argument with the rear dérailleur.  Unfortunately the pannier strap appears to have won.  I haven't checked the chain properly yet.

Maybe didn't help that it was dark and I was towing a mini_e in the trailer, so when I felt something jam, I waggled the pedals back and forward a few times to try and free it rather than stop.  I suspect the damage was already done though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 12 November, 2013, 01:47:05 pm
Quote from: interzen on 12 November, 2013, 11:07:30 am
Quote from: matthew on 12 November, 2013, 11:03:43 am
I recently caught my half link section in the fixie chain doing something simillar. I dread to think how long I had been riding with only one plate taking the power and leg braking.  :-[ :o
This was on my fixed 29er ...

I don't do leg braking, but a 19st rider and a 58" gear probably adds up to a significant amount of torque ... on the plus side, at least it didn't go pop on the Tunnels Ride (the last ride I did on this particular bike)

Yeahbut, we had loads of people with spare 9-speed links on the Tunnels Ride.   ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 13 November, 2013, 08:52:44 am
Going home last night I had multiple 'too damn close' passes and one very near miss - idiot at a crossroads who didn't see me until nearly too late.

Now I'd have said I needed to turn my lights to a brighter setting, but I had two drivers flash at me, presumably because my lights were too bright! Lights pointed well down, main beam maybe 20ft in front of me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 13 November, 2013, 08:58:54 am
This mornings ride was well fresh! It was very nice riding accross the green, being the first hooman bean of the day and breaking the frosty crust on the grass.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 13 November, 2013, 09:43:16 am
Gorgeous, crisp, dry-cold morning. Beautiful.

And no numpties. Two coach drivers executed perfect wait and pass overtakes, one chap with his window down checked over his shoulder to see if he was clear to pull out, plenty of room given by everyone who passed me.

Doesn't get any better.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 13 November, 2013, 10:27:27 am
Long trousers this morning - the first time since April. I think Autumn may be coming.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mustgettaller on 13 November, 2013, 10:38:22 am
Decided to take the indirect route round the lanes.
(http://i42.tinypic.com/qqyck7.jpg)

Was a beautiful morning, but definitely fresh  - the pubometer (sorry, Garmin) got down to -3C. Toes were painful by the end. Winter shoes here we come!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 13 November, 2013, 12:43:53 pm
I made the wrong clothing choice this morning.  I am currently wearing knickers, long sleeved base layer, long sleeved top, gillet and mitts. I thought that is plenty for a autumn morning but today was the first time that the parked cars had frosted windscreens. After a couple of miles my fingers were hurting from the cold. When I arrived in work my fingers hurt again as the blood came back. Should be slightly warmer tomorrow so need to change my clothes yet.


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Vince on 13 November, 2013, 01:23:36 pm
I too had a small clothing fail this morning. Favourite winter top (No, it isn't retro I bought it in the 90s) and long sleeved base layer, so toasty up top, but the first pair of socks I grabbed in the half light happend to be CoolMax. Not what I wanted this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 13 November, 2013, 01:30:56 pm
Softy Southerner here, but this morning the world was perfect with shorts, a summer weight top, jersey and gloves. Was rather hoping to ditch the jersey on the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 13 November, 2013, 02:08:01 pm
Went to a Leeds alumni do in Covent Garden last night and availed myself generously of the free booze... anyway, to cut a long story short, I found myself in Faversham at about 1am with a 45 minute wait for the connecting train to Whitstable, so I decided to ride the last 8 miles home instead.

Only fell off once - the lights I use on the Brompton aren't the most powerful and although it was a beautifully clear night, the lanes have some well shaded parts which were pitch black at that time, so I didn't realise how close I was to the edge of the road...

Fortunately, I landed on a grass verge. And at least it sobered me up a bit.

And I managed to get up the short-but-very-steep hill in the final mile without having to get off or indeed falling off again.

A most splendid ride. I especially enjoyed the open sections, with great views of Orion etc overhead.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 14 November, 2013, 07:47:35 am
Quote from: citoyen on 13 November, 2013, 02:08:01 pm
Only fell off once - the lights I use on the Brompton aren't the most powerful and although it was a beautifully clear night, the lanes have some well shaded parts which were pitch black at that time, so I didn't realise how close I was to the edge of the road...

Fortunately, I landed on a grass verge. And at least it sobered me up a bit.

Moral: if you're well lit up, your bike should be too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 14 November, 2013, 07:52:45 am
Wise words! ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 14 November, 2013, 08:25:39 am
Quote from: citoyen on 13 November, 2013, 02:08:01 pm

Fortunately, I landed on a grass verge. And at least it sobered me up a bit.


A few years ago while riding back from a gig I had been working at having had a few drinks I decided to take the towpath home so to avoid traffic and policemen.

I fell in the canal... Twice.

Thankfully I'd left my gear at the venue to collect with the van the following day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 14 November, 2013, 09:02:14 am
No frost this morning. No shorts either - that wind BITES
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 14 November, 2013, 10:54:57 am
Short commute for me as I got a lift to about 8 miles from work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 14 November, 2013, 11:47:35 am
Knackered
15-25mph headwind
Hawthorn trimmings
Mud in a fine mist raised by every passing vehicle.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 14 November, 2013, 11:48:54 am
Quote from: davelodwig on 14 November, 2013, 08:25:39 am
Quote from: citoyen on 13 November, 2013, 02:08:01 pm

Fortunately, I landed on a grass verge. And at least it sobered me up a bit.


A few years ago while riding back from a gig I had been working at having had a few drinks I decided to take the towpath home so to avoid traffic and policemen.

I fell in the canal... Twice.
During the course of the Tunnels Ride, I mentioned to someone that cycling beside canals really freaked me out and was told that the maximum depth of the canals around Brum is something like 4 feet. That someone wasn't you, was it?

(not that it made me feel any better at the time, but it was a useful nugget of info nonetheless)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 14 November, 2013, 12:08:29 pm
They're not deep, but there's all manner of nasty crap at the bottom that I wouldn't want to land on.

And cold water is cold water.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 14 November, 2013, 12:14:05 pm
Quote from: interzen on 14 November, 2013, 11:48:54 am
Quote from: davelodwig on 14 November, 2013, 08:25:39 am
Quote from: citoyen on 13 November, 2013, 02:08:01 pm

Fortunately, I landed on a grass verge. And at least it sobered me up a bit.


A few years ago while riding back from a gig I had been working at having had a few drinks I decided to take the towpath home so to avoid traffic and policemen.

I fell in the canal... Twice.
During the course of the Tunnels Ride, I mentioned to someone that cycling beside canals really freaked me out and was told that the maximum depth of the canals around Brum is something like 4 feet. That someone wasn't you, was it?

(not that it made me feel any better at the time, but it was a useful nugget of info nonetheless)

A soggy fiver says it was Basil. He's got form. Cast your mind back to the days of urc and someone who made multiple trips into the cut.  That's yer man.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 14 November, 2013, 12:16:50 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 14 November, 2013, 12:14:05 pm
A soggy fiver says it was Basil. He's got form. Cast your mind back to the days of urc and someone who made multiple trips into the cut.  That's yer man.
Definitely wasn't Basil - the Imparter Of Wisdom was not possessed of a moustache ;)
It was definitely one of the Brum/Black Country contingent who I wasn't familiar with, though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 14 November, 2013, 12:28:55 pm
Wasn't me I was elsewhere.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pipsuds on 14 November, 2013, 05:02:43 pm
Happened to come alongside a guy riding a pale blue on-one fixed this morning on the Euston Road. Commented on his new style bagman support with struts and ended up having a happy conversation all the way through to South Ken about audax, and the joys of commuting in the autumn sunshine 8), as he has just signed up to audax uk and is hoping to do some rides in the spring. Name is Derek, lives on a boat. Please give him a welcome if you meet him in the spring on a ride...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 14 November, 2013, 06:24:53 pm
Punishment pass. Window down. "Use the Fucking Cycle Path"

I responded that I was too fast (>12mph, and you shouldn't be on cycle paths) there was too much chutney and that he should use the fucking motorway but obviously, by the time I got all that out, he was well up the road, I was in tears and had to stop for shaking.

I fucking hate commuting into a town.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 14 November, 2013, 06:27:53 pm
Quote from: fboab on 14 November, 2013, 06:24:53 pm
Punishment pass. Window down. "Use the Fucking Cycle Path"

I responded that I was too fast (>12mph, and you shouldn't be on cycle paths) there was too much chutney and that he should use the fucking motorway but obviously, by the time I got all that out, he was well up the road, I was in tears and had to stop for shaking.

I fucking hate commuting into a town.

I believe the words you were looking for were "Fuck off, you cock-sucking turd. I've got your reg on my camera."

Hugs for you in the morning...  :-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 14 November, 2013, 10:29:44 pm
Unsure if this has been mentioned elsewhere...
But the Greenwich foot tunnel chicanes have been removed.
\o/
Let's hope it lasts
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 15 November, 2013, 07:52:24 am
Quote from: fboab on 14 November, 2013, 06:24:53 pm
Punishment pass. Window down. "Use the Fucking Cycle Path"

I responded that I was too fast (>12mph, and you shouldn't be on cycle paths) there was too much chutney and that he should use the fucking motorway but obviously, by the time I got all that out, he was well up the road, I was in tears and had to stop for shaking.

I fucking hate commuting into a town.

I agree with Chris, the sentiment can be shortened into a succint "FUCK YOU", which seems to work well, for me anyway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 15 November, 2013, 08:56:33 am
Wing mirror clipped by a driver in a 1-series BMW convertible at Pool crossroads, caught him at Headingley crossroads.

Knocked on his window --

"your wing mirror is bashed in because you clipped my arm"
"I though I hit you"
"You did"
"sorry - I was mindful you were there, I was avoiding that van who didn't give me enough space"
"Then why did you drive in to me?"
"Sorry. I've been knocked off too"
"I have two little kids - you kill me, who is going to put a roof over there head? More space in future"
"Sorry..."
"There's been 5 cyclists killed in the last 9 days in London. We're all shitting it."
"I know..."

Lights changed and to be fair, he said "is it alright if I go?"

What do you do when a driver who claims to be a cyclist that has been knocked off still has the first instinct to pull in on a cyclist rather than slow down?

Obviously, pulling him out of the car and beating him to a bloody pulp is the first option, but I guess that only solves part of the problem, and may create others. So that option aside, I didn't know what to do.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 15 November, 2013, 09:06:22 am
I was almost clipped myself yesterday by a twunt who pulled out of a side road across my path, all the while looking directly at me. One hand on the wheel, other hand holding his phone, of course. He seemed not to understand why I was upset.

Although he didn't actually make contact, I was sorely tempted to grab his wing mirror and rip it off as it passed a few cm from my hand.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 15 November, 2013, 09:22:20 am
20 past 4 yesterday afternoon. Rectory Road. After sunset. Streetlights not yet on. Decidedly gloomy under overhanging trees. As I pass a bike a voice says "Where's your fucking helmet".

I turn and bellow back "MORE TO THE POINT
WHERE's YOUR FUCKING LIGHTS!"

Twat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 15 November, 2013, 09:26:49 am
A change of tone.

On the way home last night a squirrel ran out in front of me.  It was far enough ahead that it wasn’t a problem, but it ran between the front and rear wheels on the driver’s side of a 4x4 coming the other way.  I gulped in horror, but saw it running out behind the offside rear wheel and on, happily, into the park beyond.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Reg.T on 15 November, 2013, 09:28:54 am
Quote from: Guy on 15 November, 2013, 09:22:20 am
20 past 4 yesterday afternoon. Rectory Road. After sunset. Streetlights not yet on. Decidedly gloomy under overhanging trees. As I pass a bike a voice says "Where's your fucking helmet".

I turn and bellow back "MORE TO THE POINT
WHERE's YOUR FUCKING LIGHTS!"

Twat.
An alternative response might have been "in my shorts" 

(I think your version may have been more appropriate in the circumstances, though)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 18 November, 2013, 09:09:32 am
New bike courtesy of LV in-sewer-ants (well, nice second-hand one)

An old Raleigh Exaage with Bio-Pace chainrings :thumbsup: and stickers that say "Designed and built in Nottingham England" :thumbsup: and "Reynolds 501 Double-Butted Frame Tubes" :thumbsup:

It's bloody fast. This morning was my first commute on it. Without me putting any extra effort in it shaved 5 minutes off my usual time!  :o

I'm gonna enjoy riding this one :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 19 November, 2013, 12:48:38 pm
I did not believe the weather folk and my mothers warnings about ICE.  So I turn into the lane and approached the most likely area for ice to appear. Its only 90m but the wind blows across it so it often has lethal sections of frozen water on cold days.  So I see a wet area and decided to test my scepticism. I was right it splashed as I wanted.  I continued and heard crunching under the wheel and decided not to do any more ice tests.

It was a great commute.  I love cold bright mornings. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 19 November, 2013, 01:03:38 pm
Yesterday HK got collected by an overtaking cyclist (over the centreline) as she turned right on her Brommie. Some interesting scrapes and nasty bruises as a result. I told HK that, when she got up, she should have kicked him where it hurts, just to even things up. Apparently ladies rarely even things up in this manner.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 19 November, 2013, 02:13:10 pm
Quote from: fboab on 14 November, 2013, 06:24:53 pm
Punishment pass. Window down. "Use the Fucking Cycle Path"

I responded that I was too fast (>12mph, and you shouldn't be on cycle paths) there was too much chutney and that he should use the fucking motorway but obviously, by the time I got all that out, he was well up the road, I was in tears and had to stop for shaking.

I fucking hate commuting into a town.
Last night, at almost the same spot, a car slowed and wound down the window to shout at me...

to tell me my back light was only flickering intermittently and it made me harder to see, though you could still see my jacket reflecting.

I thanked her and took the cycle path the rest of the way home. Added 10 minutes to my journey, and I nearly rode into (luckily at ~ 10kph) someone dressed all in black, walking their (black) dog.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 19 November, 2013, 04:26:14 pm
There was icy bits :(  As a result I was really quite twitchy, and even more glacially slow than usual, and got very very cold.  I may have to try and sort alternative transport for the next few weeks. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 19 November, 2013, 05:59:58 pm
I made a last minute decision to fit the snow studs last night, and therefore there was no ice worth mentioning on the way in. On the way home this evening was rather different though.

Looks like the fell road must have been icy too as the cars were all backed up on the main road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 19 November, 2013, 06:40:46 pm
A lovely sunny cycle into work this morning, it's a shame I had a puncture half way there.  That's acceptable, it happens, and I haven't had to deal with the fairy for a while.  What's not acceptable is the crummy pump design, which sliced part of my finger off, even when using it quite slowly (to pump up the inner, looking for the hole), and then the rim exploding when I pumped the tyre up.

It took me over an hour to get home then, cable tying the rim up so I could at least push the bike to the station, with only minimal noise as the rim caught on the brakes, get a train, and then push it the remainder of the way home.

I've done 700 miles on that wheel, and it was second hand, so I can't complain to the manufacturers, but the bike probably had less than 100 miles on it when I acquired it.  It clearly hadn't been used much, but had possibly been left collecting dust for a while, but that shouldn't wear a rim out.  That seems like a poor mileage for a wheel, even on a cheap and cheerful bike (which the Viking Single-Speed is).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 19 November, 2013, 07:33:00 pm
Crikey!  Deflations, sliced fingers and an explosion!  Quite an eventful commute!

That is terrifying if that rim really has worn to the point of failure in 800 miles!  Have you got a rim caliper to measure how thick it is?  Worth measuring the other one (though I think I'd want to be replacing it!). 

800 miles.  Not a lot is it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 19 November, 2013, 08:45:07 pm
It was a damned loud bang, especially considering I was by the side of the road on Tooting Bec Common, so there were no buildings nearby for the sound to echo off of!

The easiest source for a replacement looks to be a visit to Decathlon on my way home tomorrow, although I still need to take the entire old wheel into work, so I can remove the freewheel.

I will have a good look at the front wheel, and whilst I don't have a rim caliper, I don't need one, I can look at the cross section. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 19 November, 2013, 10:25:59 pm
Did they complain about you pushing the train? Hope you and fingers are restored to the correct enumeration.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 19 November, 2013, 11:48:07 pm
Quote from: David Martin on 19 November, 2013, 10:25:59 pm
Did they complain about you pushing the train? Hope you and fingers are restored to the correct enumeration.

Next time I'll expect them to supply a train with an engine ... ;D

I've still got the requisite number of digits, albeit one wrapped in a sticky plaster currently.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 20 November, 2013, 09:26:42 am
I spent 10 minutes desperately hunting for the light- found the batteries and the battery compartment and the rear casing pretty quickly but couldn't find the light. Turned out it was on the (other) bike.  :facepalm:
Then had to maniacally molish a shim.  :facepalm:
And attach the rear light to my jacket as I had no bracket on the ice bike.  :facepalm:
So, inevitably, was late setting off.  :facepalm:
Hammered it, to arrive at the usual time  :smug:

(Incidentally, why bother with squats when you can have a self-lowering seatpost, ice tyres and binding brakes? It felt the same on my quads...  :facepalm:)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 20 November, 2013, 09:31:42 am
Coming down Prescott Street this morning, traffic on the left is at a standstill. So far so normal. There are a couple of vehicles in the process of pulling out of the loading bay http://goo.gl/maps/j7aux, it is obvious that the first, a car is taking not a blind bit of notice of the cyclist in front of me. Said cyclist continues, jinking further and further into the middle. Driver is edging out unevenly, personally I would have trusted him as far as  I could have thrown him. Said cyclist continues and eventually the car stops as he is passing through the - by now - 18 inch gap. Cue gesticulating and horn blowing.

Up at the traffic lights I pointed out that while said cyclist was in the right, it was painfully obvious what the driver was doing.

"Yes, it was obvious, but it is as much about educating drivers" was his response. And I suggest, not an uncommon attitude - putting yourself in harm's way because you are in the right. (cf innumerable cycling vids on youtube)

Am I in a minority to think that attitude is [25%] [50%] [a significant chunk of] the problem of keeping cyclists alive?

On the positive front there was a low contention ration in the changing rooms - can't think why.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jsabine on 20 November, 2013, 10:02:29 am
Quote from: Ham on 20 November, 2013, 09:31:42 am
Am I in a minority to think that attitude is [25%] [50%] [a significant chunk of] the problem of keeping cyclists alive?

Not sure it's as dramatic as "keeping cyclists alive" - in that situation I might have done the same (I certainly have done in the past), knowing that I was being a bit of a knobber but also knowing that it was such low speed that I wasn't really risking any more than embarrassment even if the driver didn't see me.

I'd probably have resorted to deploying my audible warning of approach a bit earlier though. (That reminds me - I've got an Air Zound tucked away somewhere ...)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 20 November, 2013, 10:21:57 am
I had words from a copper!  Not once but twice!  First time was just past Tooting Bec station (CS7 northbound) when I got pulled over and asked why I hadn't got my lights on.  It was overcast, but not as murky as it was before it started raining, so I explained that it was daylight.  So he said that I wasn't wearing anything reflective.  So I looked at him funny.  And then I was dismissed.

Then copper #2 (who had lots and lots of ribbons on his flouro jacket) boinged into the ASL at Balham to give my buddy (who I'd caught up with again) and me a suggestion that we ought to be wearing helmets.  I looked at him funny.  Didn't work this time, so he got on his safety lecture thing.  Then the lights changed,  Then we were off.

I'd mind if I'd have been nicked for no pedal reflectors.  I'd have been reassured if either would have asked how often I check/service my brakes.  As it is I'm a bit meh.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 20 November, 2013, 10:51:56 am
"But something must be done !!"

Even if that something is utterly pointless, and quite possibly counterproductive.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 20 November, 2013, 01:46:34 pm
First commute since last Wednesday.  I was aware that the temperature had dropped significantly over the intervening week so I dressed appropriately. (I thought).  Rather over did it.  It will get a lot colder than this in the real winter.

Significanltly fewer other bikes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 20 November, 2013, 02:26:49 pm
Had a WTF moment this morning as I came into work via Holborn Circus for the first time in a while...

Wasn't expecting that!

For those who don't know, Holborn Circus is (or used to be) a six-way junction and they've changed the road layout quite drastically. And I don't like it. Like many other junctions in London, it seems to have been redesigned with the aim of "improving" (ie speeding up) traffic throughput. You don't have to have been following the news too closely of late to understand why this might not be A Good Thing in the eyes of a cyclist and/or pedestrian.  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 20 November, 2013, 02:27:42 pm
Quote from: Basil on 20 November, 2013, 01:46:34 pm
First commute since last Wednesday.  I was aware that the temperature had dropped significantly over the intervening week so I dressed appropriately. (I thought).  Rather over did it.  It will get a lot colder than this in the real winter.

It was proper cold yesterday evening.  Seems to have warmed up again today.


Quote
Significanltly fewer other bikes.

What struck me more than that (there's still plenty of short-range commuter cycling going on here in universityland) was how all the pedestrians suddenly switched to winter clothing the week after the clocks went back.  It wasn't any colder than it had been for weeks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 20 November, 2013, 02:37:32 pm
Homeward journey would then be in the dark and colder than before though at the same o'clock.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 20 November, 2013, 02:39:34 pm
Waiting at the lights to turn right and a Lycra Road Warrior[1] decides that steaming up the outside and picking a marginal gap between oncoming cars is a good point to turn.  I was quite astonished as a) it was wet and b) major roads and junctions like this are prime places for spilling diesel and c) that would have been nasty. I personally think more of my safety than a bit of obviously new hi-vis.

Then got passed by a tandem - all dressed alike (in nice new jackets) on a very nice clean shiny tandem. Maybe I am just getting more cautious as I get older or I am just aware that people in inexperienced clothing are quite often lacking experience themselves.


[1] lots of shiny fluo yellow - helmet cover, backpack cover etc. on a shiny clean bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 20 November, 2013, 02:46:57 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 20 November, 2013, 02:26:49 pm
Had a WTF moment this morning as I came into work via Holborn Circus for the first time in a while...

Wasn't expecting that!

For those who don't know, Holborn Circus is (or used to be) a six-way junction and they've changed the road layout quite drastically. And I don't like it. Like many other junctions in London, it seems to have been redesigned with the aim of "improving" (ie speeding up) traffic throughput. You don't have to have been following the news too closely of late to understand why this might not be A Good Thing in the eyes of a cyclist and/or pedestrian.  >:(

Wossapened? I often use it, but haven't been through in a week or so. Worth a detour up Shoe Lane to find out?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 20 November, 2013, 02:56:41 pm
They've removed the monument in the middle of the junction to make it more of a straight-through road. I wanted to turn right from Holborn into St Andrew Street, which has now been closed off from Holbon Circus, so you need to turn right into Fetter Lane, then left into St Andrew Street.

The worst thing was not expecting it, so I found myself caught in the wrong lane, which didn't help. But even if you know what to expect, you're still in a situation where instead of what was effectively a light-controlled roundabout, you're turning right off a dual carriageway.

Whoever thought this would be an improvement is cockwomble of the first order.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 20 November, 2013, 03:04:50 pm
Not the innovator, but certainly the sponsor

(http://www.techweekeurope.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/boris-johnson.jpg)

Sounds dire, but to be fair that was always a not very good junction, especially for turning. Stopping the straight across will probably make it safer, although more tedious. I'll go and have a look on my way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 20 November, 2013, 03:06:42 pm
Quote from: Ham on 20 November, 2013, 03:04:50 pm
I'll go and have a look on my way home.

Sounds dangerously like tempting fate. Be careful out there!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 20 November, 2013, 03:23:24 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 20 November, 2013, 02:56:41 pm
The worst thing was not expecting it, so I found myself caught in the wrong lane, which didn't help. But even if you know what to expect, you're still in a situation where instead of what was effectively a light-controlled roundabout, you're turning right off a dual carriageway.

I should add, my main concern is that eastbound traffic now has use of both lanes, rather than just the left lane, so if you're turning right off Holborn, you're at increased risk of being rear-ended by someone wanting to go straight on. At least in the past you could get in the right-hand lane before the junction and know that everyone else in the same lane was also turning right.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 20 November, 2013, 03:34:02 pm
Be interesting to see, I'm sure you are right about that turn, but overall the junction has to be one of the most confusing for everyone [useless trivia alert] and is, of course, the start of the A4.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 20 November, 2013, 05:27:09 pm
Quote from: Ham on 20 November, 2013, 03:34:02 pm
Be interesting to see, I'm sure you are right about that turn, but overall the junction has to be one of the most confusing for everyone [useless trivia alert] and is, of course, the start of the A4.

I've not been to work this week as I'm hibernating, but Holborn Circus is on my route, I cross it north-south to get to the mothership (although I sometimes lock my bike by the circus, elephants be damned, or I did until the construction works ate them – the stands, not the elephants, though either I hazard would give you indigestion).

It's always been horrible for every class of user, be it automotive, cycle, or pedestrian (it's especially horrid for pedestrians as the facilities are mostly the unsatisfactory run-for-it-while-looking-in-six-directions variety). It's the same mutual dissatisfactionary design they based the entirety of Croydon town centre on. I presume there was a movement at some point. Probably still ongoing.

I didn't think it was possible to make it worse, but hey, Boris has the reverse Midas touch and anything he touches with the stick of TfL turns magically to steaming brown poo.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 20 November, 2013, 05:34:57 pm
Quote from: ian on 20 November, 2013, 05:27:09 pm
It's the same mutual dissatisfactionary design they based the entirety of Croydon town centre on.

<Marvin>Croydon? Don't talk to me about Croydon.</Marvin>

Quote
I didn't think it was possible to make it worse, but hey, Boris has the reverse Midas touch and anything he touches with the stick of TfL turns magically to steaming brown poo.

My thoughts precisely.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 20 November, 2013, 06:33:42 pm
I went through and it is truly yuck at the moment

Quote from: ian on 20 November, 2013, 05:27:09 pm

It's always been horrible for every class of user, be it automotive, cycle, or pedestrian.

Ain't that the troof.

However the proposed alterations don't look too bad http://www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/services/transport-and-streets/traffic-management/Pages/holborn-circus-highway.aspx (http://www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/services/transport-and-streets/traffic-management/Documents/Holborn-Circus-new-layout.pdf for the detail), whether or not it could be better turning it into a more standard junction, reducing the ingress roads by 2 has to be a good thing. (The Prince Consort is off for a holiday, will be back, but no longer in the middle, huzzah!)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 20 November, 2013, 07:29:21 pm
Your starter for 10... I leave work at 1630.  At what time, after a dry day, did it start persisting it down?  ...

16:27

Feh!


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 20 November, 2013, 08:24:53 pm
Quote from: Ham on 20 November, 2013, 06:33:42 pm
I went through and it is truly yuck at the moment

Quote from: ian on 20 November, 2013, 05:27:09 pm

It's always been horrible for every class of user, be it automotive, cycle, or pedestrian.

Ain't that the troof.

However the proposed alterations don't look too bad http://www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/services/transport-and-streets/traffic-management/Pages/holborn-circus-highway.aspx (http://www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/services/transport-and-streets/traffic-management/Documents/Holborn-Circus-new-layout.pdf for the detail), whether or not it could be better turning it into a more standard junction, reducing the ingress roads by 2 has to be a good thing. (The Prince Consort is off for a holiday, will be back, but no longer in the middle, huzzah!)

Fewer roads sounds better but it still looks a bit of a mess in the middle. I'll reserve judgement till I've attempted to navigate it. I hope they put the bike stands back, everywhere else is packed and I could usually get a space near the top of St Andrew's St. A shame they didn't do something like Jo posted re Poynton and made the circus into a true shared space. We could have had elephants and the Prince Consort then.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 20 November, 2013, 09:58:49 pm
NIce to see a couple of PCs (or whatever the volunteers are called) giving leaflets to motorists blocking the ASL at Southwark Street on CS7.   :thumbsup:  Shame there weren't a few more at the other end of Southwark Bridge, which is always a complete mess, though.

I gather they were out giving safety advice on CS2 today as well. Presumably "Find a different route" :-) :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 20 November, 2013, 10:06:57 pm
Leaflets. That'll learn 'em.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 21 November, 2013, 09:42:37 am
Quote from: spindrift on 20 November, 2013, 10:06:57 pm
Leaflets. That'll learn 'em.

They could have made the frowny face.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 21 November, 2013, 10:03:36 am
I hope they waved their fists a bit too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 November, 2013, 10:04:44 am
Or maybe pointed a finger.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 21 November, 2013, 10:06:25 am
Quote from: clarion on 21 November, 2013, 10:04:44 am
Or maybe pointed a finger.

Steady on!  Do we really need to be that harsh?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 November, 2013, 10:09:31 am
Ok, perhaps wagged gently.  I don't think we should be too severe.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 21 November, 2013, 10:15:08 am
In fairness, they did make one reverse out of the box.  An Addision Lee cab, unusually....

For those who know the Thames St junction, Tfl has put formward some half-baked ideas for improving it.  The consultation is here https://consultations.tfl.gov.uk/streets/upper-thames-street/consult_view (https://consultations.tfl.gov.uk/streets/upper-thames-street/consult_view) and you have until the 22nd to respond.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 November, 2013, 10:18:46 am
Well, after all, it's not illegal, is it?  Well, not as illegal as riding a bicycle without wearing a helmet... ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 21 November, 2013, 11:23:00 am
Holborn Circus: I don't know whether they're making it better or worse overall, but moving a statue for the sake of traffic is a symptom of, well, traffic-minded-ness. OTOH if the statue is going to be moved to a place where people can actually see it and even read the inscription, that's better.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 21 November, 2013, 11:51:32 am
Sorry, moving the statue is an excellent idea, it was a great big lump that obstructed vision, never useful at a junction. You could still see Gamages, but that was a few years ago ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 21 November, 2013, 12:02:46 pm
Yes, that's the point. Moving something with other value, like a statue or tree, even to make a junction safer, is putting the traffic value - in this case, safety, it might in other times be speed or capacity, for instance - above the amenity, cultural or simple visual value of that statue, tree or whatever. To invent an extreme example, you might improve safety at Marble Arch by moving or demolishing that big thing in the middle. In the case of Holborn Circus, it should be a win on both counts because the traffic benefits (assuming they materialise) will be accompanied by making the statue more accessible (judging by the plan) but TfL's motives for the move are still traffic-values alone.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 21 November, 2013, 12:05:35 pm
Quote from: Ham on 20 November, 2013, 03:34:02 pm
Be interesting to see, I'm sure you are right about that turn, but overall the junction has to be one of the most confusing for everyone [useless trivia alert] and is, of course, the start of the A4.
Once when I was in London on my motorbike, I decided to ride the whole length of the A4 - but I got tired of it and went home (lived in Bath at the time) rather than continuing all the way to Avonmouth. The Slough and Reading sections are good adverts for the M4 but it's a nice road to the west of that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 21 November, 2013, 12:14:05 pm
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 21 November, 2013, 11:23:00 am
Holborn Circus: I don't know whether they're making it better or worse overall, but moving a statue for the sake of traffic is a symptom of, well, traffic-minded-ness. OTOH if the statue is going to be moved to a place where people can actually see it and even read the inscription, that's better.

Good points. They could have taken the Piccadilly Circus approach - left the statue in place and pedestrianised the area on one side of it.  :demon:

Looking at the document Ham linked above, it seems they are still reserving the right hand lane for right-turning traffic, which is reassuring - it just isn't clear that's the case at the moment. I hope that once the work is complete, the markings make the priorities very clear and that the road layout encourages/enforces it.

Also looks like they're narrowing the westbound side of Holborn, which I approve of - as long as the bus lane is properly enforced. This could make life much easier further up when turning right into Grays Inn Rd. Overall, the final results could be much better than I feared, so I shall reserve judgment until the work is complete.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 21 November, 2013, 01:09:18 pm
I've been wondering what it was going to end up like - at the moment it seems to change a little bit nearly every day.

These look to be good changes, it's been a bit of a free-for-all for a long time (I've cycled it on and off since at least 25 years ago) with loads of people treating it as a roundabout getting entangled with people who knew it wasn't. One of the best improvements is not very obvious on the drawings: westbound the road narrows significantly from the left, giving you the choice of going in a straight line like the rest of the traffic, which gets abuse and side swipes from the taxi drivers, or following the left side of the road, which gets you squeezed into the kerb by the buses that are following the straight line through.

Glad to see the statue's coming back!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 21 November, 2013, 01:18:32 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 21 November, 2013, 10:15:08 am
In fairness, they did make one reverse out of the box.  An Addision Lee cab, unusually....

For those who know the Thames St junction, Tfl has put formward some half-baked ideas for improving it.  The consultation is here https://consultations.tfl.gov.uk/streets/upper-thames-street/consult_view (https://consultations.tfl.gov.uk/streets/upper-thames-street/consult_view) and you have until the 22nd to respond.

Hilarious!
Quote
Replacing advisory cycle lanes and off-carriageway cycle track on Upper Thames Street with 1.5 metre-wide mandatory cycle lanes on the carriageway. This would make it clearer that the space is dedicated for cyclists. Motorists could be fined for entering the lanes as a result.

Out of interest, how many motorists have been fined for entering a mandatory cycle lane? Ever? Somewhere around zero? I guess they're really effective then and motorists never enter them!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: phantasmagoriana on 21 November, 2013, 06:37:25 pm
Not my commute (I haven't cycled commuted since August!) but presumably someone else's - I saw (or rather, heard) my first snow tyre user of the season today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 21 November, 2013, 08:01:05 pm
There seemed to be an usually high number of cycling numpties on the way home tonight.

One undertook me as I was holding back behind a coach that was indicating that it was about to pull in. Then of course it did and he swung straight across my front wheel. 

Another playing chicken between two moving tipper trucks (sorry, but no time saving is worth trying that one).

Quite a few people pushing their way through those waiting at red lights just as the lights changed.

Lots of people riding straight through red lights.

One prize pillock who put himself on the far right of an ASL on a two lane road and then meandered away from the lights trying desperately to work out how to use his toe clips while veering all over the road.

A couple of MAMILS treating the very narrow bike lane on Thames St as a racetrack and overtaking slower cyclists ridiculously closely.

Something in the air, maybe?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 21 November, 2013, 08:14:02 pm
We clearly share the same route......in spirit if not fact

Lower Thames Street is unreal. The other morning, heading west by the Tower in the usual almost stationary traffic, there's a bit by the top of the slope where traffic turns right from the eastbound lane. Which means it is advisable to hold back on the brakes until you see whether or not there is something coming.  Possibly one of the same numpties in your tale pushed past as I obviously wasn't going fast enough (how similar to the drivers we moan about are they?) and yes, it was only the cautious driving of the right turner that avoided the ensuing coming together.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 25 November, 2013, 11:48:44 am
Back at it after 2 weeks in Aus (Adelaide- what a wonderful cycling city!) and legs were like lead. Still, managed to get to work without any major incidents!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 25 November, 2013, 12:09:11 pm
Back on the bike after a week off with a cricked neck (really).

A completely uneventful day with all drivers (in the scores) giving me plenty of room. That's how it is most days.

On the four or five occasions where I have to take the lane everyone held back a good distance, and two of them returned my little wave of acknowledgement as they went past me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 25 November, 2013, 11:36:28 pm
I spotted some bicycle indicators in the wild this morning!

It was a bit close to the centre line to be eye catching, so at first I thought the rider had an orange blinky on his bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 26 November, 2013, 12:16:51 am
They might be useful for one of my brothers, who rides but with only one effective arm.  I don't think I could ever trust that my indication had been noticed, so I'd still be sticking my arm out!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 26 November, 2013, 12:47:05 am
Quote from: Peter on 26 November, 2013, 12:16:51 am
They might be useful for one of my brothers, who rides but with only one effective arm.  I don't think I could ever trust that my indication had been noticed, so I'd still be sticking my arm out!

I think that's one of the situations where they're worthwhile, though the usual problem of getting them wide enough apart on something that isn't a trike, cargo cycle or velomobile applies.

We didn't bother for barakta, but her right arm works normally.  Indicating left isn't as important.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 26 November, 2013, 09:19:27 am
Chilly fingers! It can't be time for the winter gloves already, surely?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 26 November, 2013, 09:24:30 am
Quote from: menthel on 26 November, 2013, 09:19:27 am
Chilly fingers! It can't be time for the winter gloves already, surely?

Depends where you are. Benson (Oxfordshire) was -5c this morning, Stornoway +10c.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 26 November, 2013, 09:40:00 am
Quote from: Peter on 26 November, 2013, 12:16:51 am
They might be useful for one of my brothers, who rides but with only one effective arm.  I don't think I could ever trust that my indication had been noticed, so I'd still be sticking my arm out!

I reckon I'd do the same!

I agree, that's one of the circumstances where it would be useful.

If I see him again, shall I ask where he got them? I'm probably not likely to, as it was half an hour earlier than I'm normally on the road and a route I take no more than two-fifths of the time...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Marmitegeoff on 26 November, 2013, 09:48:48 am
Quote from: Deano on 26 November, 2013, 09:40:00 am
Quote from: Peter on 26 November, 2013, 12:16:51 am
They might be useful for one of my brothers, who rides but with only one effective arm.  I don't think I could ever trust that my indication had been noticed, so I'd still be sticking my arm out!

I reckon I'd do the same!

I agree, that's one of the circumstances where it would be useful.

If I see him again, shall I ask where he got them? I'm probably not likely to, as it was half an hour earlier than I'm normally on the road and a route I take no more than two-fifths of the time...

Could be these:-
http://www.thesportshq.com/cyclamatic-wireless-remote-control-bike-indicators.aspx
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 26 November, 2013, 09:49:31 am
first day on a bike after 19 days off following elbow op. got fed up with public transportation. it still hurt but was worth it - glorious morning outside!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 29 November, 2013, 09:50:47 am
Legs dead. 4 days cycling and a PT session on top of Aus jetlag (and excess weight!) have finally taken their toll. Not looking forward to this evening's trip home!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 29 November, 2013, 10:16:31 am
Tired out legs before I set off.

20mph headwinds gusting to 30mph the whole way.

knackered . ...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 29 November, 2013, 10:18:56 am
Tipper lorry stopped at a red light, not indicating. Two cyclists ahead go up the fairly wide space to the left. I know there's (at most) a 0.1% chance it's going straight on, so I go to the right and ask the driver whether he's going straight on. After taking off his headphones, he says no he's going left. I let him know his indicators are not on, so he puts them on, the "Vehicle Turning Left" recording starts and the two cyclists on his left move forwards.

This is the second time this week - first driver (also with headphones on) said cheerily he wouldn't have bothered if I hadn't said anything. Srsly what's the use of these safety devices if the drivers won't use them (the recording I mean).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 29 November, 2013, 11:07:49 am
You might just have saved someone's life there, Mr Onion.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil W on 29 November, 2013, 12:20:18 pm
Se hit 10c yesterday and was still 8.5c at 20:00, so warm enough for shorts but I have a warm top on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 29 November, 2013, 12:47:50 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 29 November, 2013, 11:07:49 am
You might just have saved someone's life there, Mr Onion.

No, they both set off just before the lights changed. ;) But there's a teeny teeny chance that these drivers might start to use their indicators if enough people point it out to them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 29 November, 2013, 12:48:43 pm
Quote from: Phil W on 29 November, 2013, 12:20:18 pm
Se hit 10c yesterday and was still 8.5c at 20:00, so warm enough for shorts but I have a warm top on.

 ???

Se is solid at both those temperatures - or have you found a clever way of measuring temperature with a light meter?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 29 November, 2013, 02:16:34 pm
Had my first interaction with one of the Safeway officers. Moving briskly through Elephant and Castle the lights ahead changed at that awkward moment of whether a stop is safe or not. Still time for a shoulder check and then some good firm braking. Shout from the side of the road - "Nice stop Sir!" And it was. As I pulled up I thought that the bike was running particularly sweetly- a benefit of tweaking the chainline after having to deal with the consequences of running over the remains of a beer bottle in Brixton.
As an aside people do seem to be communicating much better and with less agro at the moment.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 29 November, 2013, 02:35:50 pm
I had an interaction with a cop in February 2008 as I waited at a red light. I was congratulated on my lights, high vis, and helmet. Guess he didn't notice the lack of pedal reflectors.

I've ditched the helmet and high vis since.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rafletcher on 29 November, 2013, 03:40:25 pm
As I was driving near work this morning (in Hemel Hempstead) at 7:10am in a 40 zone a person on a BSO wobbled out from the turning on the left into the centre of the lane before heading for the kerb. Unlit, no reflectors, no hi-viz or reflectives - parka with the hood up. As I drove past I saw that his (for it was a he, travelling barely above walking pace as it was uphill) right hand was holding a thermos coffee mug  ::-) After I passed I saw him wobble across the road into the next turning on the right.  That twat counts as a cyclist to most people in cars.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil W on 29 November, 2013, 07:23:08 pm
Quote from: Pickled Onion on 29 November, 2013, 12:48:43 pm
Quote from: Phil W on 29 November, 2013, 12:20:18 pm
Se hit 10c yesterday and was still 8.5c at 20:00, so warm enough for shorts but I have a warm top on.

 ???

Se is solid at both those temperatures - or have you found a clever way of measuring temperature with a light meter?

Clearly the context means I wasn't referring to an element in the periodic table. SE - South East.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 02 December, 2013, 02:09:27 pm
Loads and loads of cyclists on the road today. I'm not sure what was the reason, but on my South to North run into South Kensington today I was consistently among about a dozen cyclists until I turned off to head over Albert Bridge.

I have never worked out why it is less popular than Chelsea Bridge.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 03 December, 2013, 09:55:04 am
Busy this morning but a nice day for it. Lots of police around on the junctions again. They seem to be altering the ones they are at as well. Not that I ever trouble them!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 03 December, 2013, 11:14:34 am
I was outside King's Cross station yesterday morning during rush hour, on my way home after staying overnight at a local hotel after a late night concert at Wembley (no way to get the last tube on a Sunday; Friday or Saturday we could have made it home).

I saw what remains of the ghost bike for Deep Lee.  As I sat in a local coffee shop having breakfast I was watching all the traffic.  The speed and density was shocking, even to me, and I commute in London, but in SW1, and have the Victoria gyratory and Parliament Square as the nasty bits.  That junction outside Kings Cross, where Grays Inn Road, Euston Road, and Pentonville Road come together, was in a league of its own in a very bad way.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 03 December, 2013, 11:56:18 am
Any junction where you need to have particular regard for confused motorists is in that same class. Hyde Park Corner, Marble Arch, Victoria, Vauxhall etc etc I think it is fairly true that we cyclists adapt to the ones we know at our own peril, it is only when we ride an unfamiliar one that we treat it automatically with sufficient respect. You develop a riding style adapted to those used to the junctions and risk getting caught out by those who don't follow the "rules".

That's often the case in a wider context, but most critical at these junctions.

FWIW, I'm quite happy riding through Kings Cross, but then it falls into the familiar category for me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 03 December, 2013, 04:46:11 pm
There did seem to be a few one way streets with exemptions for cyclists around there, but if I was unfamilar with the area I wouldn't want to get spat out at that junction (which one of those roads nearly does).

As you say, there can be some reasonable back street routes in parts of London, and small pieces of infrastructure that work, but then huge barriers like Hyde Park Corner or Kings Cross or Holborn.

If I had taken the other job 2 years ago instead of this one, I would have been in Shoreditch High Street so may have got used to that area by now - cutting through the back streets near Old Street would have bought you out by the office.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 04 December, 2013, 12:29:28 pm
Dear silly woman on a bike, don't undertake me and then 'bloody hell' at me because I'm a) turning left in a left turn lane and b) the only reason I wasn't 10 meters in front of you was because the bus in front of me was taking the tight corner very slowly.
You were the one doing the 'I want to be squashed' manoeuvre so stop bitching at me! Grr.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 05 December, 2013, 08:50:16 am
Blimey.  It was a bit "Winnie The Pooh" this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mr magnolia on 05 December, 2013, 09:13:44 am
On the commute this morning I was glad that
A. I decided yesterday that flying to Ireland this morning to spend the day outside was a bit daft, so let's not do it.
B. Cycling to work today would be a bit daft, so. let's not do it.
C. The great big solar panel on the pavement by our office had arrived there before I did.

I'm not quite so happy that all the travel network in Scotland seems to have shut down just after I arrived at work...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 05 December, 2013, 09:58:33 am
Slippery rail conditions on Southern this morning .......  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 05 December, 2013, 10:19:53 am
It is bin day for most of South Brum today.  The masses of rubbish flying around the streets wasn't the major problem, (although I'm always very wary of plastic carrier bags flying into my rear mech).  No, the major problem was empty recycling boxes flying through the air at head height.  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 05 December, 2013, 10:21:51 am
Can I just be the first to say that I am looking forward to tonight's commute home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 05 December, 2013, 10:23:25 am
The weather is strong wind and rain. Decided that driving kids to school was prudent then on to work. Why do people put up with the crappiness of short car commutes?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 05 December, 2013, 10:56:28 am
I didn't ride, but I did see a large Police presence at every point of the junction of Southwark Street and Borough High Street.  Police Officers (mainly), and a couple of PCSOs were talking to cyclists stopped at the lights.  Despite loitering a bit, I couldn't hear the content fo the discussions, so moved on.  No motorists were approached while I watched.

I should perhaps add that there are no ASLs on that junction (though perhaps there should be).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 05 December, 2013, 12:32:33 pm
Whee!  The last 10 metres of my commute had a tailwind.  Best not mention the other 25km.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 05 December, 2013, 12:52:10 pm
Windy.  Really windy.  Tonight might be fun  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 05 December, 2013, 02:33:25 pm
Quote from: Basil on 05 December, 2013, 10:19:53 am
It is bin day for most of South Brum today.  The masses of rubbish flying around the streets wasn't the major problem, (although I'm always very wary of plastic carrier bags flying into my rear mech).  No, the major problem was empty recycling boxes flying through the air at head height.  :o

Also note that "My recycling boxes have blown away / been destroyed by the binmen / been nicked by students, how do I get replacements?" is conspicuously absent from the council's recycling FAQ.

We've only had a blue (paper and card) box with giant cracks that mean you can't pick it up for a couple of years now.  Useless.


(Mind you, in Sheffield we had proper wheelybins for the recycling, and at one point they all blew away.  One of our car's rear light clusters was collateral damage.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 05 December, 2013, 04:47:04 pm
Quote from: Kim on 05 December, 2013, 02:33:25 pm
Also note that "My recycling boxes have blown away / been destroyed by the binmen / been nicked by students, how do I get replacements?" is conspicuously absent from the council's recycling FAQ.

"That will be £20 for a replacement, please" was what I was quoted by my local council. I did get it replaced for free, but only by proving that their system for replacing boxes damaged by the binmen (which is supposed to be free) couldn't possibly work because the forms that the binmen were supposed to record losses on had never been issued to the bin lorries in the first place.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 05 December, 2013, 05:39:39 pm
That noise when I set off this evening was ice on my tyres rubbing the mudguards. It was wasn't there this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 05 December, 2013, 05:50:09 pm
Well, that was rare.  The wind very gradually veered during the day through about 90 degrees. But that was enough to ensure that I had wind assistance for not only most of my journey to work, but also most of the way home.  :D
About as rare as rocking horse shit.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 05 December, 2013, 05:58:30 pm
So your the one who nicked my tail wind. That 90o turn meant it went from trying to blow me off the road on the way in to trying to blow me backwards on the way home :(

The hail straight in my face at 50mph was a nice touch too ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 05 December, 2013, 06:05:38 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 05 December, 2013, 05:58:30 pm
So your the one who nicked my tail wind.

Sorry about that, but I do believe that it was my turn. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil W on 05 December, 2013, 10:10:05 pm
Brilliant moon and Jupiter visible in sky on way home tonight and nice tail wind. A few trees down but car traffic was nightmare according to wife who got home an hour after me. Glad I was on bike today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 05 December, 2013, 10:35:44 pm
Dealing with flashbacks to seeing my mother-in-law's injuries after having a truck deliberately driven at me and then being told that I deserve to die.

Later had to scramble to the side of the road after stopping at lights, alerted by the sound of hard acceleration of the van that had swept into the bus lane in an attempt to beat the red. It passed through where I'd been.

I've said bad words today and want to break things.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 December, 2013, 07:47:45 am
Horrible.  Hope you're OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 06 December, 2013, 08:55:14 am
Sharing helps. I'm making a set out of salvaged steel at the moment, so plenty of opportunity to clang and spark. The neighbours in the wood shop complain about the growling but for some reason they generally leave me be.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 December, 2013, 08:58:00 am
Glad you've got something you can take your emotions out on.  Pen, paper, telephone & computer keyboard don't offer very satisfying options, I find ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 06 December, 2013, 09:18:36 am
Bike, train, bike commute today instead of usual car, bike commute due to team Xmas night out. No problems at all getting bike on the train, it was really quiet. Dont think the train back to glasgow tonight will be so quiet though...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hulver on 06 December, 2013, 01:22:36 pm
Riding on Marathon Winters is like having your own gravel driveway. It's very soothing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 06 December, 2013, 03:17:07 pm
I think of it more like perpetually surrounded by popping candy.

Overheard at the gym today- the other guy who cycles there saying he wouldn't be able to do so for much longer, what with the falling temperatures. He obviously hadn't realised why I'm on a different bike....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 December, 2013, 03:39:33 pm
I thought it was rice krispies.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: phantasmagoriana on 06 December, 2013, 03:41:13 pm
It's cycling on bubblewrap...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 06 December, 2013, 03:42:06 pm
Quote from: phantasmagoriana on 06 December, 2013, 03:41:13 pm
It's cycling on bubblewrap...

Still want to try that...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 December, 2013, 04:00:08 pm
Tried it.  Nearly fell off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 06 December, 2013, 05:40:31 pm
*Images sex in a bubble wrap bed*


(Sorry about that)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 06 December, 2013, 07:31:53 pm
*Gives up waiting for someone to respond with Clarion's last post*

You're flipping useless, you lot.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 06 December, 2013, 08:48:39 pm
Tried it. Popped my bubble.

(is that any good? no? oh.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 06 December, 2013, 08:55:01 pm
Good effort Cudzo.
 :D  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 06 December, 2013, 09:48:30 pm
Quote from: Basil on 06 December, 2013, 05:40:31 pm
*Images sex in a bubble wrap bed*


(Sorry about that)

Just made me think of sweaty bum cleavage.  :hand:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: dave r on 07 December, 2013, 10:26:35 pm
Quote from: Mrs Pingu on 06 December, 2013, 09:48:30 pm
Quote from: Basil on 06 December, 2013, 05:40:31 pm
*Images sex in a bubble wrap bed*


(Sorry about that)

Just made me think of sweaty bum cleavage.  :hand:

Just made think of a sweaty session, when holding onto your partner is like holding a wet bar of soap.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bowks on 08 December, 2013, 10:54:02 am
Quote from: dave r on 07 December, 2013, 10:26:35 pm
Quote from: Mrs Pingu on 06 December, 2013, 09:48:30 pm
Quote from: Basil on 06 December, 2013, 05:40:31 pm
*Images sex in a bubble wrap bed*


(Sorry about that)

Just made me think of sweaty bum cleavage.  :hand:

Just made think of a sweaty session, holding onto your partner is like holding a wet bar of soap.
Is the feeder line for a nun gag...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 09 December, 2013, 11:34:44 am
Not a good commute. Skimmed by a BMW driver, harassed by an idiot of a taxi driver then knocked off by someone that failed to look 'because people don't normally come from there.'
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 09 December, 2013, 12:20:15 pm
On my commute ride today yesterday I, happily and without incident, negotiated round a couple and their dogs as they crossed a road in Glynde, with a "Morning" and smile exchanged. Round a corner 50 yards further on came a chap 'pinging' his bell. What a knob I thought, but said, "Don't ring your bell."

I was so incensed by his "Look-out-I'm-too-bloody-busy-to-slow-down-and-interact-with-you" attitude, that I turned round and caught up with the old boy walking his dog, to apologise for such unwarranted bell-end nonsense. So we had a nice chat. So good to hear another Sussex accent.

A few minutes later a couple stopped (in car) to ask directions to Glyndebourne. So were duly directed back from whence they came. Old boy said he can't count the times he has to direct folks to Glyndebourne. I said: "They were probably driving too fast." He said: "Fuckin BMW droivers, whadjaspeck." Oh we both larfed.




Normal commute of 2 minutes resumed today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 09 December, 2013, 01:09:32 pm
A good commute this morning.  I set out a the time I aim to. Normally I set out at 7:40 and arrive just before 9:00.  This morning I left home at 7:30 and arrived at 8:40.  I was not riding quickly but I avoid three sets of school queues by setting off ten minutes earlier.  I had previously observed that when I leave too late at 7:50 I arrive just after 9:00. So I have to conclude I generally leave home at the worst time I could.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 09 December, 2013, 01:13:09 pm
Next week I am going to catch the train home most days.  I will continue to ride in but I find it scary riding in the evening amongst drivers who have just left an office party.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 09 December, 2013, 09:06:21 pm
Last week I took the ice bike every day, which is slow, but surefooted, so I'm happy to ride on chutney coated cycle paths. This week I'm not, so I'm not, so I got a reprieve of whenever it was the last time I had a slow down punishment pass windows down 'use the fucking cycle path'. Today I tried to request a lobby for council path cleaning but he wasn't interested in a conversation. To be honest I think it was a different car, I think the last one was silver and this one was navy. I think. It wasn't as terrifying today, but maybe that's because it paled into indignificance against the cyclist who came after me after I muttered (clearly too loudly) ' well done, you've nearly got lights on' having at the last moment distinguished his feeble flasher from the background of car and street lights.
I didn't answer 'a pointless feeble flasher, have you actually seen what your bike looks like in the dark in traffic' to his 'WHAT THE FUCK DO YOU THINK THIS IS, EH?', as I was too busy giving it welly to get away from the scary man and wishing I'd kept my sarky thoughts to myself.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 09 December, 2013, 09:22:30 pm
I have very limited experience in these matters, but sarky remarks rarely end well. I once made a comment to a ninja cyclist, mostly hidden in the gloaming, but merely got a "Fuck off, cunt" for my troubles. Leave 'em to it. If they're lucky, they won't die a horribly painful death under a truck at the A134/A14 roundabout.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil W on 09 December, 2013, 09:59:48 pm
Back in shorts , it is so mild, no proper frosts yet
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 09 December, 2013, 11:13:50 pm
Just riding home and twat in a white audi decides to take me with him as he turns left. OK, it was the way I was going but the smokers outside the pub on the corner were left in no uncertain terms as to my opinion. Their cigarette smoke may have appeared a little bluer for a while.


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jsabine on 09 December, 2013, 11:35:08 pm
Quote from: fboab on 09 December, 2013, 09:06:21 pm
I muttered (clearly too loudly) ' well done, you've nearly got lights on' having at the last moment distinguished his feeble flasher from the background of car and street lights.

If I can be arsed saying anything, I find "you know your light's really hard to see" relieves my frustration while allowing the ninja to believe I was trying to be helpful.

(Your one was clearly a dick though.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 10 December, 2013, 07:24:00 am
Quote from: jsabine on 09 December, 2013, 11:35:08 pm
Quote from: fboab on 09 December, 2013, 09:06:21 pm
I muttered (clearly too loudly) ' well done, you've nearly got lights on' having at the last moment distinguished his feeble flasher from the background of car and street lights.

If I can be arsed saying anything, I find "you know your light's really hard to see" relieves my frustration while allowing the ninja to believe I was trying to be helpful.

(Your one was clearly a dick though.)

Or perhaps suggest to them that their batteries are low. If they are using rechargeables they can go from bright to dim quite quickly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Speshact on 10 December, 2013, 07:45:56 am
I discovered there are two Christchurch Schools in Lambeth. Of course I found this out at the one furthest from me, when I needed to be at the nearer one.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 10 December, 2013, 07:54:16 am
Freezing fog :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 10 December, 2013, 09:00:35 am
Quote from: Guy on 10 December, 2013, 07:54:16 am
Freezing fog :sick:

Which was very unpleasant already, but doubly so when it stuck to my glasses so I was double-fogged  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 10 December, 2013, 09:16:14 am
Was a little chilly this morning, the fog was a surprise. Not enjoying the traffic on my route either, it has been very crappy for the past couple of weeks since I came back from holiday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 10 December, 2013, 10:29:13 am
I've seen a new (to me at least) way of taking your small child to school on a bike: get it to put its arms round your neck and clasp its hands together, and then ride off down the Old Kent Road with the kid hanging down your back.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 10 December, 2013, 12:27:41 pm
I don't think I've seen that one! I have seen a (very small) child clutched to their father's chest while he rode one-handed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 10 December, 2013, 03:21:04 pm
Quote from: David Martin on 09 December, 2013, 11:13:50 pm
twat in a white audi

tautology, surely?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 10 December, 2013, 07:53:57 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 10 December, 2013, 03:21:04 pm
Quote from: David Martin on 09 December, 2013, 11:13:50 pm
twat in a white audi

tautology, surely?

Twat! You heard: where it should be white, lacking "Vorsprung", and unspecified "Technik". Goes without saying? (9)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 11 December, 2013, 08:21:47 am
Foggy again. At least ir wasn't freezing this time.

What on earth was the dustman up to, running around in the middle of the road like that? ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 11 December, 2013, 08:30:00 am
Well, that was interesting :thumbsup:

After about 300 yards I decided to pocket my glasses as they were fogging up worse than the air.

Once I left the comfort of street lit roads, it was like riding through cotton wool. I know the roads well but, at times, I wondered if I was still on the same planet.

Very spooky  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 11 December, 2013, 08:55:45 am
Gosh that was foggy.
Same as Fuzzy, although my eyesight is rather poor, I could see more without my glasses than with.

Amazed to see a couple of cars with no lights on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimC on 11 December, 2013, 09:25:23 am
Yes, I've noticed that in the last couple of days - given the cars involved, I suspect that they were auto lights which, of course, only assess light levels, not visibility.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 11 December, 2013, 10:44:04 am
I'm the same in the fog.  Fortunately my commute from home to the station is alongside a small river, on a slightly bumpy towpath, for which I have very good lights (the path is completely unlit).  It seems to attract the fog in.  After a short time, I had to perch my glasses towards the end of my nose and look over them.  I could see enough to the end of the beam of light to get by.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 11 December, 2013, 10:57:14 am
On my motorbike, I rapidly found I couldn't see very well, and trying to wipe the droplets off the visor only made it worse. So I spent most of the journey with the visor wide open, which made my face hurt due to the cold. Fortunately, I was wearing contacts, otherwise this wouldn't have helped.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 11 December, 2013, 11:39:56 am
Much warmer up north. Last 2 commutes its been >11C and I've been over dreseed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 11 December, 2013, 12:25:44 pm
Nearly taken out by a tank commander this morning, peering through the letterbox-sized de-iced patch on his windscreen. He was coming towards me on the other side of the road, so far so good, but then pulled out round a parked car, straight into my path, and had to swerve when he finally noticed me at the last moment. Fucking moron.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 11 December, 2013, 12:34:44 pm
I've changed my route into work this week after "very" nearly getting squished at this island again (4th time in 12mth) http://www.streetmap.co.uk/map.srf?X=422284&Y=301374&A=Y&Z=115

The new route is a bit further & starts with a long drag but there's only one iffy island that I hit with traffic coming from the left  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wobbly on 11 December, 2013, 05:50:23 pm
Damn roadie overtook me as I was delayed at roundabout - he wasn't delayed as he got a break in the traffic whilst I was heaving the Pashley off the line from a standstill.

His air of smugness vanished when I overtook him tho. And on a hill too!  8)

Have to admit I was glad he turned off a short while later as I was just gasping for breath...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil W on 11 December, 2013, 06:58:33 pm
Quote from: fuzzy on 11 December, 2013, 08:30:00 am
Well, that was interesting :thumbsup:

After about 300 yards I decided to pocket my glasses as they were fogging up worse than the air.

Once I left the comfort of street lit roads, it was like riding through cotton wool. I know the roads well but, at times, I wondered if I was still on the same planet.

Very spooky  :)

Sums up my morning commute but glasses came off after a mile
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 12 December, 2013, 03:22:02 pm
S**t I have learnt on last night's commute:

1 - Jeans make a really bad lubricant for fixed wheel bicycle's drivetrains
2 - Experimenting with cotton based lubrication is best done at very low speeds. I am thankful my experimentation was all conducted as I pushed off from some lights.
3 - Cotton based lubrication works reasonably well for approximately 1/4 revolution of the cranks. It then stops working so well and starts hurting really rather a lot as it drags your ankle along with it.
4 - I need some new jeans

Very sore leg this morning.  The jeans were rolled up, just not quite far enough it seems! 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 12 December, 2013, 03:35:38 pm
Looked out the window this morning and first thought was that it had been snowing. Turned out it was actually just a particularly heavy frost. Still, good enough reason to take it very carefully at certain points on my route to the station.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 12 December, 2013, 04:07:49 pm
Quote from: marcusjb on 12 December, 2013, 03:22:02 pm
S**t I have learnt on last night's commute:

1 - Jeans make a really bad lubricant for fixed wheel bicycle's drivetrains
2 - Experimenting with cotton based lubrication is best done at very low speeds. I am thankful my experimentation was all conducted as I pushed off from some lights.
3 - Cotton based lubrication works reasonably well for approximately 1/4 revolution of the cranks. It then stops working so well and starts hurting really rather a lot as it drags your ankle along with it.
4 - I need some new jeans

Very sore leg this morning.  The jeans were rolled up, just not quite far enough it seems!

Have you moved to Hoxton, then?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 12 December, 2013, 04:08:29 pm
Nope - as one friend on Facebook pointed out, I need skinny jeans to be a real hipster!

(and mattc pointed out I should tuck my jeans in my sock, but he is from the countryside)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Reg.T on 12 December, 2013, 05:16:59 pm
Do townies not wear socks then?  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 12 December, 2013, 05:27:41 pm
This man in the countryside (I assume this is what the countryside looks like - there's trees and shit) is not sporting a good look:

(http://papamikeonatrike.files.wordpress.com/2012/10/10-12-fri-well-here-i-am-today-heading-out-pants-tucked-in-my-socks-to-keep-the-wind-from-blowing-up-my-legs-its-a-little-cool-the-log-was-just-stained.jpg)

This urban-dweller is showing a better look (though he could do with some brakes):

(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ft84IKovHhs/T7bXZsH84zI/AAAAAAAABnI/t4Q9yRKkADw/s1600/P1120001b.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 December, 2013, 05:31:15 pm
What's wrong with plus fours?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 12 December, 2013, 05:34:39 pm
Quote from: clarion on 12 December, 2013, 05:31:15 pm
What's wrong with plus fours?

They make you look like a tw@t?

The fixer dude's garb is OK - but you'd also look a tw@t wearing that in London; that chap commutes somewhere nice. It looks like Darling Harbour in fact which IS nice, but it's probably Docklands, which isn't  :facepalm:.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 12 December, 2013, 06:56:54 pm
Hmm. In the only images I could find of Tintin on a bicycle, he's either wearing shorts or Chinese pajama garb.
(http://kitesurfbikerambling.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/tintin.jpg?w=625)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 12 December, 2013, 06:59:10 pm
Seeing as I've posted that, I'll post this too - Coppi meets Tintin!
(http://kitesurfbikerambling.files.wordpress.com/2012/08/photo10.jpg?w=625)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 13 December, 2013, 08:09:53 am
This morning's commute was further than usual. As I set off something felt a bit odd. I got 1/2 mile up the road before I realised I hadn't picked my bag up.

DOH! :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 13 December, 2013, 08:15:36 am
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 12 December, 2013, 06:59:10 pm
Seeing as I've posted that, I'll post this too - Coppi meets Tintin!
(http://kitesurfbikerambling.files.wordpress.com/2012/08/photo10.jpg?w=625)

I'm glad it says who it is at the bottom of that picture, I just saw it as a generic 1960's cycle racer.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 13 December, 2013, 09:11:43 am
Traffic much less and I misjudged the temperature this morning- got a bit warm! Still, not a bad ride in!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 December, 2013, 09:42:02 am
Quote from: tiermat on 13 December, 2013, 08:15:36 am
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 12 December, 2013, 06:59:10 pm
Seeing as I've posted that, I'll post this too - Coppi meets Tintin!
<pic>

I'm glad it says who it is at the bottom of that picture, I just saw it as a generic 1960's cycle racer.

Which is odd, as Coppi barely scraped into the 60s.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 13 December, 2013, 09:53:15 am
It's not Herge's greatest (if it even is Herge) but it's not so terribly far off.
(http://www.cyclinghalloffame.com/riders/pics/coppi_f%20color.jpg)

Quote from: clarion on 13 December, 2013, 09:42:02 am
Quote from: tiermat on 13 December, 2013, 08:15:36 am
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 12 December, 2013, 06:59:10 pm
Seeing as I've posted that, I'll post this too - Coppi meets Tintin!
<pic>

I'm glad it says who it is at the bottom of that picture, I just saw it as a generic 1960's cycle racer.

Which is odd, as Coppi barely scraped into the 60s.
11 August 1960 is the date on the cover - so barely into the 60s!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 December, 2013, 10:16:50 am
Coppi died on 2 January 1960 (I just checked).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 13 December, 2013, 10:47:18 am
Odd. I suppose it must have been a memorial issue - but why eight months later? Unless I'm misreading the date on the cover - it's not terribly clear, having another look it does look a bit like 1940 - but that doesn't look like it could have been produced in 1940 (and was Coppi even famous then?). Perhaps it's 1950...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 December, 2013, 10:55:20 am
He won the Giro in 1940, so reasonably well known ;D

But he's wearing the rainbow jersey, and he only won the World Championship once: 1953, so it is unlikely to be before that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 13 December, 2013, 11:38:56 am
Tintin Magazine started in 1946 so it's not the Giro (in addition to him wearing the rainbow jersey) (and Herge was artistic director not drawing them all himself - so quite likely didn't draw that one). Someone on Pinterest has it as 1960
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/190980840419177554/
In fact lots of people have, but no one says why!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 13 December, 2013, 11:43:28 am
:) :D

I love this place.

1) Someone posts a picture of a comic/magazine cover
2) another person says it looks like a generic 1960's racer
3) discussion ensues about 1960s...

Great  :thumbsup: :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 13 December, 2013, 11:46:06 am
Whole story here!
http://spinwell.co.uk/2010/02/15/11th-august-1960/

Quote from: tiermat on 13 December, 2013, 11:43:28 am
:) :D

I love this place.

1) Someone posts a picture of a comic/magazine cover
2) another person says it looks like a generic 1960's racer
3) discussion ensues about 1960s...

Great  :thumbsup: :)
Yeah, and I don't even have a commute - what am I doing in this thread? !!!  ???  ::-)  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 December, 2013, 11:54:54 am
Ditto! ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 13 December, 2013, 01:26:13 pm
http://bikeyface.com/2013/12/12/traffic-talk/

Absolutely. Even when it isn't awesome it is still better than driving.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 13 December, 2013, 01:47:00 pm
^ ;D^
I literally lolled literally out loud lollingly!
And I found it highly amusing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 13 December, 2013, 09:49:00 pm
Well, that was a bit wet.

Not sure what to make of the three guys on hire bikes cycling northbound  in the southbound cycle lane on Westminster Bridge!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 13 December, 2013, 11:13:57 pm
Quote from: Chris S on 12 December, 2013, 05:34:39 pm
The fixer dude's garb is OK - but you'd also look a tw@t wearing that in London; that chap commutes somewhere nice. It looks like Darling Harbour in fact which IS nice, but it's probably Docklands, which isn't  :facepalm:.

Vancouver...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 16 December, 2013, 08:34:31 pm
I picked up some minor bumps and scrapes (the bike is OK).

The edges of a repaired trench are failing here (https://maps.google.co.uk/maps?q=dean+lane+cookham&ll=51.563226,-0.745997&spn=0.010511,0.038581&hnear=Dean+Ln,+Cookham,+Maidenhead+SL6,+United+Kingdom&t=m&z=15&layer=c&cbll=51.563214,-0.746007&panoid=AB7VRCCKL1FjX-r122V_gA&cbp=11,265.08,,0,19.57). The edge caught my front wheel had had me down. The following car offered assistance and also offerd to follow me lighting my way if I needed but I was fine- Exoposure is my friend.

fillthathole.org and the Royal Borough duly contacted.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 17 December, 2013, 09:00:02 am
10 minute cycle in today, as I went up a hill; but more importantly, I hope you're okay Fuzzmeister.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 17 December, 2013, 09:15:35 am
I am a bit achey this morning but, I can tolerate it Riggers, because I know that you care.

Thanks  :-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 17 December, 2013, 09:23:20 am
Good. Now you can answer my new Post.  :-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 17 December, 2013, 01:04:18 pm
Last night I implemented my pre Christmas commute.  I rode to Bridgend station showed the guard my weekly ticket to Radyr and got on the train. At Cardiff I got off. I could wait twenty minutes for a train I am allowed on but decided to waste part of my ticket and ride up the Taff Trail.  Last time I did this I passed lots of other cyclists going my way.  Last night I passed a few heading into Cardiff but none in my direction. I thought a fast rider would pass me but no one did. I was quite pleased not only had most of the cyclists disappeared so had the dog walkers.  There were a few runners with head torches but mostly I could ride as fast as I wanted and the B&M luxos B would allow. I was a little surprised that other people  use quite weak lights on an unlit cycle path but I suppose they are no worse than what I used ten years ago.

So I removed a substantial road distance from my commute to avoid the office party drunks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wobbly on 17 December, 2013, 01:26:37 pm
Uproar at work because lots of staff moves mean there'll be a couple of Portacabins plonked in the car park. Thereby reducing the number of parking spaces which obviously infringes a driver's most basic Human Right.

I don't help the frayed tempers by reminding them it won't affect me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 17 December, 2013, 02:09:32 pm
Due to work and illness keeping me off the bike, this morning was my first commute of the month :o

I really need to fit the larger cog at the back. I also appear to have cleared a large quantity of the lining from my lungs, though now I'm a lot happier breathing :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 December, 2013, 03:13:38 pm
GWS Fuzzy
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wobbly on 17 December, 2013, 06:56:33 pm
Get home from work tonight and realised (again!) that I'd left my keys at work.

I
really
must
stop
doing
that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 December, 2013, 07:25:12 pm
You just want to double your commute to up your numbers on Bikejournal ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cygnet on 17 December, 2013, 09:27:47 pm
Got almost home to discover my carridice was missing from the back of my bike. Arse.
Back to work, and a slow ride home again in the rain to (unsuccessfully) see if I can spot it.
Only fortunate thing is most important stuffs (keys/wallet/phones) were in my back pockets plus ('caus' of the rain) I was wearing my rain jacket and overshoes, but still. Arse.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 17 December, 2013, 10:00:14 pm
That was some cold, wet and windy weather! Still the coffee and fruit toast fixed things once I got home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 18 December, 2013, 08:49:36 am
Roads full of people cycling like idiots this morning. Really not impressed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 18 December, 2013, 09:15:08 am
Quote from: clarion on 17 December, 2013, 03:13:38 pm
GWS Fuzzy

Thanks :)

I did  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 18 December, 2013, 09:33:51 am
Quote from: Wobbly on 17 December, 2013, 06:56:33 pm
Get home from work tonight and realised (again!) that I'd left my keys at work.

I
really
must
stop
doing
that.

to prevent that i usually leave my house keys together with bike lock keys in the drawer. then i can't simply leave work without taking house keys.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 18 December, 2013, 09:35:52 am
Quote from: zigzag on 18 December, 2013, 09:33:51 am
Quote from: Wobbly on 17 December, 2013, 06:56:33 pm
Get home from work tonight and realised (again!) that I'd left my keys at work.

I
really
must
stop
doing
that.

to prevent that i usually leave my house keys together with bike lock keys in the drawer. then i can't simply leave work without taking house keys.

Yep, mine are all on the same keyring- house, bike and locker keys.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 18 December, 2013, 09:51:23 am
An
Quote from: menthel on 18 December, 2013, 09:35:52 am
Quote from: zigzag on 18 December, 2013, 09:33:51 am
Quote from: Wobbly on 17 December, 2013, 06:56:33 pm
Get home from work tonight and realised (again!) that I'd left my keys at work.

I
really
must
stop
doing
that.

to prevent that i usually leave my house keys together with bike lock keys in the drawer. then i can't simply leave work without taking house keys.

Yep, mine are all on the same keyring- house, bike and locker keys.
And my garage key is with them, so I can't get at the bike without having my keys on me in the morning, and I can't leave work in the evening without my keys 'cos the bike's locked up. It took me about two years to work that trick out. House keys were joined at the hip to my car keys, so going anywhere on the bike meant taking two bunches of keys. Habits can make people appear daft.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 18 December, 2013, 05:21:34 pm
Driving back fron Northampton, the A420 was completely blocked by a fallen tree.  No one had hit it, luckily.  I was about ten cars back so got out to have a look.  "We can move that," I said, and with another five big blokes, we did.  Road was closed for about 15 mins total.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 18 December, 2013, 06:28:00 pm
Silly gusting wind, cold rain and a puncture. That was fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 18 December, 2013, 07:30:03 pm
Worrying ride home.  I'd popped into Mordor Central at lunch time to meet Old Mother B. to escort her from one train and get her onto another on her way to my sister's for crimble.
Several times over the last week she'd phoned me to remind me to not use my bike today because of the vast amount of STUFF she'd be handing over to me.  (Yeah sure Mum.  *Fingers crossed behind my back*)
Anyway, she wasn't kidding.  A large crimble cake, a huge ham for our traditional C Eve dinner, pressies for the four of us, all sorts of home made noms, cheeses and other stuff.  Plus the traditional 4 bottles of dreadful wine. (She's 89 and has never drunk a glass of wine in her life).
Anyway, this lot was a lot heavier than I'd anticipated.  Distributed between my hugest panniers and bottle cages, the old Mercian was snaking and shimmering like a good 'un.  And the old M+ on the rear was walking about a lot which was rather worrying.  That tyre is about 5 years old at least and so must be pushing 10k miles.  I was convinced it was about to fail and was counting down the miles as each one passed, as each one meant less distance to push an overloaded bike home.
As it happened, I got away with it, although coming off the speed humps nearer home was producing really silly amounts of rear tyre skwirm.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 18 December, 2013, 07:46:17 pm
Londres (well, the fourteen miles of it I rode just now) is just one big, wet, windy car park.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil W on 18 December, 2013, 08:47:24 pm
I got a blow job on the way home; it was hard work...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 18 December, 2013, 11:09:45 pm
Windy and very wet for me, certainly not nearly as much fun as basil's ride. (great post)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 19 December, 2013, 09:29:53 am
Looked at bike this morning and saw that tyre was still inflated but that I had a broken spke and that the tension had gone out of a number of others. Train to work and bike into bike shop this evening!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 19 December, 2013, 01:29:19 pm
What was it about the wind last night. My commute route is basically "S" shaped (got to cross the river at a bridge - none of them are in the right place) so, whatever the wind is doing, I normally get a mix of headwind, tailwind and from the side. Last night it was headwind all the way - as I changed direction so did it. On top of that I couldn't decide if it was sleet or hail that was being chucked at me the entire ride. Not pleasant...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: phantasmagoriana on 19 December, 2013, 01:34:31 pm
The wind here seemed to be gusting in every direction last night - I was riding back from spin class being blown all over the place (except the way I was going, of course).  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 20 December, 2013, 06:48:32 am
Ice warnings on the Met Office site but no ice outside - hopefully this holds all the way to work, because it's several degrees colder across "The Marsh".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 20 December, 2013, 07:35:24 am
Well, here it is.  The last Friday before Christmas.  Let's all be extra careful out there tonight.
Ride safely everyone.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 20 December, 2013, 10:00:14 am
With the commuter being in the bike shop for ministrations I rode in on the best bike this morning. The Italia felt lighter and more responsive. With the lack of traffic I flew in so much faster and racked up 4 strava PBs, something I haven't done for some time on the commute route!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 20 December, 2013, 01:27:09 pm
Took advantage of the late opening at Westfield Stratford after work yesterday and went along to do a bit of Christmas shopping. Decided to ride there, so followed CS3 from Tower Bridge eastwards. First time I've been along Cable Street for ages. I know this goes against popular anti-TfL feeling, but I actually quite like what they've done with it.

Unfortunately, I missed a turning somewhere along the way - off Narrow Street, I'm guessing - but it was dark and I was too busy following the chap ahead of me who seemed to know where he was going, but then he turned off at Leamouth and that's when I realised he was going a different way to me...

I carried on a bit further, although the CS3 signs had all evaporated by then. But it was only when I found myself in the middle of Plaistow that I realised I'd gone properly off piste. So I doubled back and started looking for road signs to Stratford. Eventually I came across a DLR station, by which time it had started raining, so I decided discretion was the better part of valour and boarded the next train. [edit: just had a look at the CS3 route on the TfL website and it seems I wasn't as far off course as I thought - my real problem is that CS3 doesn't actually go to Stratford as I'd assumed...  :facepalm: ]

Here's my route:
http://www.endomondo.com/workouts/278158012/5065481

The shopping was hell, as expected, but on the plus side, when I finished, I had the perfect excuse to call in at Tap East (http://www.tapeast.co.uk/) for a pint of their gorgeous Sixpence Stout while waiting for my train. That certainly took the edge off!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Reg.T on 23 December, 2013, 10:40:44 am
Wet and windy this morning. Christmas Day may be near, but it seemed like ClosePass Day had arrived on the A4. I guess it's due to a higher proportion of infrequent drivers on the road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 23 December, 2013, 02:33:39 pm
Tweet reported on the BBC site:

Quote
1414: Public Health England

Motorbikes and bicycles are very vulnerable to cross winds, so avoid using them if possible in areas affected by #UKStorm
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 23 December, 2013, 03:33:13 pm
This is why I am working from home today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rafletcher on 23 December, 2013, 03:39:40 pm
Quote from: rogerzilla on 23 December, 2013, 02:33:39 pm
Tweet reported on the BBC site:

Quote
1414: Public Health England

Motorbikes and bicycles are very vulnerable to cross winds, so avoid using them if possible in areas affected by #UKStorm

 BBC Radio Cambridgeshire presenter Jeremy Sallis tweets: "Today is proof the world hates cyclists #UKStorm #headwind #goingbackwards #cryingalittlebit."
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 23 December, 2013, 04:12:29 pm
doesn't look too bad in london, there were few days like this last winter and no fuss was made
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 23 December, 2013, 06:31:01 pm
Quote
Cumbria Police has warned people not to enter local rivers or lakes, describing the water as "very fast moving and dangerous".

They could have improved the gene pool by not bothering with that statement  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lordy on 24 December, 2013, 01:46:07 pm
Very woody cycle path to Bath today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 24 December, 2013, 08:28:19 pm
Other than the wind the amount of brokwn umbrellas littering the roads was a pain.

I was also amazed to be the only cyclist at 815am at Notting Hill Gate.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 02 January, 2014, 12:50:30 pm
It was tough this morning I appear to have lost my fitness. Which one you bastards nicked it while I was wining and dining the last couple of weeks?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 02 January, 2014, 01:00:33 pm
I fully expectd to be feeling sufficiently crap and grumpy this morning to end up taking the train.  However, despite having lain awake listening to the torrential rain at 3am and thinking far too much about work issues, I awoke to bright blue skies and sunshine that not only motivated me to cycle but also made it clear that I was too late to catch the train.

Pumped up the tyres (they'd dropped about 30psi since I last rode to work) and headed out with an extra-heavy bag, and enjoyed every minute of the 35 minute ride along sparsely populated South London roads.  Only a handful of other cyclists, no nutty drivers, a hint of a tailwind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 03 January, 2014, 10:08:58 am
Mostly dry and a bit blustery, not nearly as bad as I'd been expecting.  Traffic was more of a worry, again it was lighter therefore faster and less patient.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 03 January, 2014, 10:28:41 am
Again, nearly neshed out and took the train but decided to be brave about the weather. 

I was rewarded with a lull in the rain and wind, clearing skies and sunshine for my 13.23km ride in 37 minutes and 9 seconds (yes, I got a garmin thingy for Christmas!).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 03 January, 2014, 12:41:14 pm
It was a dry ride on wet roads this morning. I nearly had an accident when I pulled on my bar ends and the right one came loose. Luckily traffic remains sparse so the large wobble caused by momentary lack of balance moved me into empty space.

 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wobbly on 03 January, 2014, 08:40:18 pm
Where I live it was rather... windy today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Trull on 03 January, 2014, 09:53:58 pm
Indeed, 30 minutes in, and 45 to get back through the teeth of the gale. http://www.strava.com/activities/103740488 (http://www.strava.com/activities/103740488)

harrumph.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 06 January, 2014, 08:40:27 am
Last week I left the bike at home and walked from the station to the office, this proved, at 0.5 miles, to be too far for my hip even with my walking stick.  :o

So today I had to bring the bike on the train to get from the station to the office, however Winnersh Triangle station is up on the embankment with stairs down to groundlevel. I had no confidence that I can now carry my bike up and down the stairs.   :( So I got off one station short where there are ramps up from the cutting to ride the mile to work, all well and good until the paths through Winnersh Meadows (the local playing field and nature area) well flooded to pedal depth and I was on a fixie.  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Reg.T on 06 January, 2014, 09:08:03 am
My (untested) theory is that it should be possible to keep feet out of the water on fixed up to around BB height, by pushing each foot from top position to forward position, and then lifting that foot until the pedal emerges again on its upstroke. Would probably require relatively low cadence and flat pedals. Anyone tried this?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 06 January, 2014, 09:16:17 am
Quote from: Reg.T on 06 January, 2014, 09:08:03 am
My (untested) theory is that it should be possible to keep feet out of the water on fixed up to around BB height, by pushing each foot from top position to forward position, and then lifting that foot until the pedal emerges again on its upstroke. Would probably require relatively low cadence and flat pedals. Anyone tried this?
Been there, done that. works better than a freewheel bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 06 January, 2014, 09:31:10 am
Quote from: Reg.T on 06 January, 2014, 09:08:03 am
My (untested) theory is that it should be possible to keep feet out of the water on fixed up to around BB height, by pushing each foot from top position to forward position, and then lifting that foot until the pedal emerges again on its upstroke. Would probably require relatively low cadence and flat pedals. Anyone tried this?

Unfotunately I use clipless pedals and cleats. I like my feet to be firmly attached to the bike as the last time I rode any significant distance without either toeclips or cleats I ended up in hospital having bounced my foot into the front wheel when hitting a pothole.  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 06 January, 2014, 12:09:50 pm
Bleedin heck, that came as a bit of a shock to the sytem after weeks of laziness
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 06 January, 2014, 01:57:34 pm
Absolutely soaked on the way in. I wouldn't have got nearly so wet if it hadn't have been for the motorcyclists.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 06 January, 2014, 02:10:54 pm
Quote from: matthew on 06 January, 2014, 09:31:10 am
Quote from: Reg.T on 06 January, 2014, 09:08:03 am
My (untested) theory is that it should be possible to keep feet out of the water on fixed up to around BB height, by pushing each foot from top position to forward position, and then lifting that foot until the pedal emerges again on its upstroke. Would probably require relatively low cadence and flat pedals. Anyone tried this?

Unfotunately I use clipless pedals and cleats. I like my feet to be firmly attached to the bike as the last time I rode any significant distance without either toeclips or cleats I ended up in hospital having bounced my foot into the front wheel when hitting a pothole.  :-[
Unclip and give pedal a shove with arch of foot.

You won't be doing it for more than a few hundred yards and at slow speed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tomsk on 07 January, 2014, 04:23:25 pm
"Unclip and give pedal a shove with arch of foot.

You won't be doing it for more than a few hundred yards and at slow speed."

Seen other fixed riders do this, but beware underwater obstacles - gravel, potholes, general flood-borne debris etc. I'd put up with wet feet, rather than risk going head-first into the water, but then I've always wimped out of horrendous floodwater and walked round via muddy fields or turned back......
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 07 January, 2014, 04:30:59 pm
From spray as they pass in you ? Does it make that much difference ?

Quote from: benborp on 06 January, 2014, 01:57:34 pm
Absolutely soaked on the way in. I wouldn't have got nearly so wet if it hadn't have been for the motorcyclists.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 07 January, 2014, 05:33:10 pm
First time on a bike in 19 days - the longest I have had off a bike in quite some years.

Crikey it hurt.

It is windy out as well.

I had a not so proud of myself moment as I shouted "make your fucking mind up" to a car that indicated left, then right, moved across towards the right of the road, then turned left - all as a party of infant school kids was being walked along the road. Oops.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 07 January, 2014, 10:24:51 pm
About to set off to knock for the Smallest Superhero Next Door and walk (pushing the bike) with the SmallestCub to school, I noticed the EldestCub's planner on the table.  EldestCub having left nearly ten minutes earlier.  Oops.  Now yesterday he came home from school and I asked how his day had been and he said 'great!' and I really didn't want that to fuck up with an equipment 'code' and likely detention on the second day back....

So I threw the littly at the Smallest Superhero and his mam, and said 'I'll catch you up' assuming that I'd find the boy on the way since it's one straight road pretty much, and set off on m'bike to try and catch me a Cub.  Failed, so delivered the planner to reception and then found said Cub as I was heading back.  No idea how we hadn't spotted each other.  No matter - a quick sprint back to the littly's school since they'd got all the way there before I caught 'em, handed over PE kits and book bags which I was still carrying, and on to site.

Ah.  Cycle path's closed then.  OK, reroute!

Then, after another site, back to the littly's school for the school run.  Plenty of time, I'll take the river path and bimble.  Then, half way there...

Ah.  Flooded.  Back to the road!

A day of diversions.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 08 January, 2014, 06:40:57 am
I realised 75% of the way to the station I'd forgotten my lunch.

Bugger.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 08 January, 2014, 07:18:08 am
The road at the botom of Quarry Wood hill was ready to flood on the way home last night.

It was flooded this morning. Cue unclipping and cautious progress.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mustgettaller on 08 January, 2014, 12:18:43 pm
Decision today - turn left from home and do 3 miles, or turn right and do 11 or 17?  ???

11 miles later through the lanes of West Sussex, feeling much happier! Nice to not be rained on - in fact feeling overdressed and a bit hot by the time I got to work!

Good decision - the "I must get in to work early because I've got so much to do" urge is being controlled!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 08 January, 2014, 12:20:56 pm
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 07 January, 2014, 10:24:51 pm
So I threw the littly at the Smallest Superhero and his mam, and said 'I'll catch you up' assuming that I'd find the boy on the way since it's one straight road pretty much, and set off on m'bike to try and catch me a Cub...

A day of diversions.

Bravo CL! Sounds like a top morning's work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 08 January, 2014, 12:21:27 pm
I quite like the tailwinds on the way home, but is it really necessary for there to be a 20mph headwind all the way to work?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 08 January, 2014, 05:17:43 pm
When are headwinds better ?  On the way into work or the way home ?

Almost always headwind on way home for me.   I prefer it this way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 08 January, 2014, 06:05:08 pm
Quote from: sg37409 on 08 January, 2014, 05:17:43 pm
When are headwinds better ?  On the way into work or the way home ?

Almost always headwind on way home for me.   I prefer it this way.

Same for me,
And
Me too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 08 January, 2014, 09:07:24 pm
Quote from: marcusjb on 07 January, 2014, 05:33:10 pm
First time on a bike in 19 days - the longest I have had off a bike in quite some years.

Crikey it hurt. ....
16 days (mostly) off the bike (other than the occasional stupormarket pootle)
Back on the commute last Monday, but finding that a 28 / 30 mile a day, round trip, has rendered me in need of a couple of days off the bike.
I am surprised.
Saddle sore?
Can it be so?  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 09 January, 2014, 01:32:56 am
Quote from: sg37409 on 07 January, 2014, 04:30:59 pm
From spray as they pass in you ? Does it make that much difference ?

Quote from: benborp on 06 January, 2014, 01:57:34 pm
Absolutely soaked on the way in. I wouldn't have got nearly so wet if it hadn't have been for the motorcyclists.

Yes. I'd estimate about three kilos worth.

Motorcyclist cuts in less than two feet in front of cyclist at twenty eight miles per hour. Blinding spray thrown in to cyclist's face; which is a problem as the the motorcyclist is committed to cutting in and hasn't twigged the FOGBP*, cyclist regains vision in time to slide left of rapidly slowing motorcycle. Cyclist is soaked to knees passing through FOGBP*; though this is inconsequential to the soaking to waist provided by bow wave of motorcycle whose pilot has failed to avoid really quite obvious FOGBP*. Repeat and un-necessarily rinse. 

*Large pool of water.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 09 January, 2014, 09:25:14 am
Quote from: sg37409 on 08 January, 2014, 05:17:43 pm
When are headwinds better ?  On the way into work or the way home ?

Almost always headwind on way home for me.   I prefer it this way.
Why?  Seems really wierd to me.

Headwinds on the way home mean I arrive home having spent an hour and half tediously slogging into a headwind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 09 January, 2014, 09:56:27 am
My usual commute covers three sides of a box.

I prefer a head wind when I start the journey in cos that means a tail wind for the last mile, and as the last mile in includes a Soddin'-Great-Hill-With-Added-Speed-Humps, a tail wind is always welcome. And if (IF) the wind stays in that direction I get a head wind where it doesn't matter (ie down SGHWASH) and a tail wind for the last mile home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mustgettaller on 09 January, 2014, 09:59:56 am
Short commute in today, after 12 miler yesterday followed by Portsmouth Pub Ride in the evning.

Ended up catching up with a milk float (yes we still have them around us), and then in the quandary of whether to overtake him (he was doing around 3mph less than I wanted) or just hang in behind.

Decided on the latter - we were going into the wind and I could just see the embarrassment which would follow as I overtook and then found myself hammering the wind and going slower than him!

So quite a nice restful commute for a mile or so!  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 09 January, 2014, 10:21:56 am
Quote from: sg37409 on 08 January, 2014, 05:17:43 pm
When are headwinds better ?  On the way into work or the way home ?

Almost always headwind on way home for me.   I prefer it this way.


Tailwinds on way into work mean I can just cruise in at walking effort.
I dont usually shower at work and commute in my civvies.

Often on way back, I'll go a bit harder anyway, the wind direction doesnt matter to me so much here.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 09 January, 2014, 09:25:50 pm
Dual carriageway through Norwich, doing 25, ped crossing ahead, green for me, the very last second see a bike come across the ped crossing, I shout WAAAAAH immediately  slam the anchors on, the flipping rear wheel is off the flipping ground, 13 stone is on my front wheel for a quarter second and I'm still clipped in. I exhale a swear word, a small voice says "Sorry!" and the cyclist crosses my path. That is the closest one for a while. If she had front lights I didn't see them cos she's dead across me, there was deffo no side visibility. My front lights 2200 candle-power for flip's sake.  She didn't hear an engine, so hey, must be safe.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 09 January, 2014, 09:27:01 pm
My heart's still going.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 10 January, 2014, 07:53:13 am
It's amazing how often someone on foot/horse/bike does something daft ahead of me because they didn't hear anything coming. Time to try a loudspeaker and an MP3 loop of an engine noise.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 10 January, 2014, 08:51:28 am
10km from my sisters house, unfortunately within 0.5km I had ridden through an icy puddle on the cycle route and filled my right shoe.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 10 January, 2014, 09:28:39 am
Quarry Wood Road is still flooded. Last night, the water was flowing accross the road from the river direction, into the fields. A number of folk were standing around their cars on the dry bit, filming the apocolypse on their mobiles. I just eyeballed the white line and kept riding. In places the water depth was above my pedal at the bottom of the stroke. The paniers were also causing drag ;D At one point, a 4X4 bottled it as I rode throught eh deepest part and started to reverse away from me. Never underestimate the powere of one wheel drive 8)

This moring I decided to use a backpack to avoid the drag and I put Gore-tex oversocks on before my shoes and overshoes. The very cold air was causing the warmer flood water to steam- made following the submerged white line a bit awkward. Floods mean no stoopid overtakes though :thumbsup:

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 10 January, 2014, 09:35:33 am
Moonlighting as the River police now are we!?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 10 January, 2014, 10:55:36 am
Quote from: spindrift on 09 January, 2014, 09:25:50 pm
She didn't hear an engine, so hey, must be safe.

I had one of those this morning, a pedestrian who blithely crossed the road in front of me without even pretending to look.

Which was especially annoying because my bike was being very squeaky today and I had, up until that point, been musing on the one advantage of a squeaky bike being that it makes pedestrians actually look before stepping off the pavement in front of you.

 :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 10 January, 2014, 11:02:06 am
Quote from: Riggers on 10 January, 2014, 09:35:33 am
Moonlighting as the River police now are we!?

Pedalo patrol sounds like fun :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 10 January, 2014, 04:44:29 pm
Quote from: Chris S on 10 January, 2014, 07:53:13 am
It's amazing how often someone on foot/horse/bike does something daft ahead of me because they didn't hear anything coming. Time to try a loudspeaker and an MP3 loop of an engine noise.

I always speak as I approach horses on a bike.  It doesn't make them any less daft, but they have excellent prey-animal-vision and will usually know you're coming.  Speaking seems to help them realise I'm a human faster.

Pedestrians and cyclists are too daft to be helped.

I had two oiks in stealth ninja tracksuits run out in front of me on an unlit country lane yesterday.  They were carrying a sofa.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 10 January, 2014, 05:58:25 pm
I claim the 'Best non-sequitur' award for 2014, so far.

Driver of car I've just passed in a queue.  "Where's the lid dude ?"
Me      "Do I need one ?"
Driver  "I cycle every other day by bike and fell off a year ago and dislocated my knee. I've always worn a helmet since then."
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 13 January, 2014, 08:54:08 am
Back to it! Not a bad run in but certainly felt rusty. Lots of folks on hybrids nodding and RLJing this morning, so not a great quality of cycling out there. Shame really as the drivers were fine!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 13 January, 2014, 09:50:23 am
What's the problem with people nodding?  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 13 January, 2014, 10:25:09 am
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 13 January, 2014, 09:50:23 am
What's the problem with people nodding?  ???

Sorry, its a turn of phrase for those just plodding along with absolutely no awareness of what is going on around them. Nowt wrong with nodding or plodding, its the lack of awareness that is the problem!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 13 January, 2014, 10:31:37 am
Ah - as in "the land of Nod"! All clear (and agree).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 13 January, 2014, 11:05:40 am
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 13 January, 2014, 10:31:37 am
Ah - as in "the land of Nod"! All clear (and agree).
The Land of Nod isn't far from here (near Holme-On-Spalding Moor) - trufax.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 13 January, 2014, 11:10:39 am
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 13 January, 2014, 10:31:37 am
Ah - as in "the land of Nod"! All clear (and agree).

 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 13 January, 2014, 11:15:56 am
Quote from: menthel on 13 January, 2014, 10:25:09 am
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 13 January, 2014, 09:50:23 am
What's the problem with people nodding?  ???

Sorry, its a turn of phrase for those just plodding along with absolutely no awareness of what is going on around them. Nowt wrong with nodding or plodding, its the lack of awareness that is the problem!
I call it 'sandbagging', and there was a lot of it this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 13 January, 2014, 12:14:54 pm
... I drove and, due to the somewhat moist aspect of my usual route, was forced to use different roads. Thsi, exacerbated by a collision on the eastbound M4 clagging up the A4 through Maidenhead meant that 6 1/2 miles took 45 minutes with 25 of those taken up on the last half mile ::-)

Thank the Dogs I usualy ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 13 January, 2014, 06:09:13 pm
Cold, windy and then hail. Luckily the hail lightened to torrential cold, dagger like rain. Dark chocolate digestives have been consumed to help ease the pain...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 13 January, 2014, 06:58:24 pm
Going in was fine. Busy but fine.
Coming home was weird. I was having to ride in the middle of the lane for most of the way to avoid the puddles and hidden potholes (some absolute monsters have opened up since Christmas). Every car which passed me did so very wide and at sensible speeds!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 14 January, 2014, 08:45:06 am
about 3.5 miles from home I met another cyclist. "Erm, where are you heading?" he asks. Then asks if he can ride behind me, as his front light has cut out. So we set off, riding side by side where possible. Quite nice to have a chat. Light has just gone dead on him - candbseen light, £70 worth. He has a 15mile commute but no head torch or backup light with him! madness.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 14 January, 2014, 08:59:31 am
The Jolly Roger has been struck and furled. Quarry Wood Road has emerged from the waves :thumbsup:

Last nights ride home was dry- I arrived and stowed G G G Granville just as the rain returned.

This mornings ride in was also dry, though the sphincter clenching caused by the glitter of light reflecting off ice crystals could be done without. Stayed upright though it was a close thing pulling away from an uphill T junction as the back wheel spun out and squirmed like a slippery squirmy thing in a bath of strawberry flavoured lube.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 14 January, 2014, 09:03:13 am
Happened to me today.
One rear light (rechargable) and one front light (non-rechargable) had both failed during the journey in this morning.   I only realised as I was locking up in the bike area at work.
This leaves me only one on the front for tonight (a Hope Vision 2) but still three rears.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 14 January, 2014, 09:10:27 am
Cold tootsies as winter boots still drying out. Nice weather though but lots of traffic and loads of bikes. Also had a dumb Merc driver look at me then pull out of a side road- I am not slow or stealthy by any means so the move was rather silly. Anchors were slammed on and a helpful slight loss of the back wheel took me round the back of the car.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 14 January, 2014, 09:14:57 am
Going home last night, some guy on a Giant roadbike with a go-pro camera on his helmet goes to the front at the roseburn lights, pulls in front of the lorry sitting at red and gives him a lecture on him being stopped in the ASL.   He switched off his engine and I thought there was going to be a confrontation, but thankfully not.  A totally pointless and alienating exercise by the cyclist.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 14 January, 2014, 10:28:37 am
Going in a bit later this morning, so got to see what the road into Whitstable is like at 8.30 instead of the usual 7.30.

My god, it's insane! This is a small town with narrow streets, clearly not able to sustain that level of traffic. I really cannot understand why people drive.

Though it did give me a nice smug feeling as I cycled past the queue, which was easily over half a mile long.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 14 January, 2014, 10:32:38 am
Seeing the frost on the cars, I thought it was going to be really cold - but it wasn't at all. It was, however, very slippery in totally random places.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 14 January, 2014, 10:50:55 am
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 14 January, 2014, 10:32:38 am
Seeing the frost on the cars, I thought it was going to be really cold - but it wasn't at all. It was, however, very slippery in totally random places.

Ugh. The very worst of conditions - ready to ambush you when you're not expecting it. Winter Solstice 200, Dec 2012  :hand:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 14 January, 2014, 12:30:22 pm
Failed commute for me. MrsC had to scrape the car windscreen this morning, but it wasn't too bad by the time I got out.
The only strange thing for the first half of the ride was that the cars coming the other way were going very slowly.
Almost at the halfway point and there's a van on the other side of the road, hazards on. Odd.
As I passed it I realised the road was covered with a sheet of ice. Which I slid most gracefully along for a bit. On my side.
The damage is to bar tape and my coat (as far as I can tell) and my elbow and thigh. Nothing too serious, but I'm afraid I walked back home to get the car and drove in on the main road instead.
My commute is on a bus route serving a primary school so is always gritted. I can only assume that there's so much water about that the grit got washed away before the freeze happened.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 14 January, 2014, 01:14:20 pm
Feeling the cold this morning, so I gave it some beans down Lonesome Lane. Until I felt the back wheel skip sideways on the ice,whereupon I eased right off until I reached the main road. Arrived at work with cold fingers but in one piece.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 14 January, 2014, 01:55:37 pm
Winter has arrived at last.  At some time in the months with short days I decide that the lane at the start of my commute through Radyr golf course which I use most of year will not be used again until March. Normally the day I switch to my 'Winter' route would be in November. This has been an exceptionally mild Winter in South Wales. Today was the day I went the long way around. Not to be confused with the long long way around. Is seams odd to get this far into Winter without slippery conditions. Surprisingly, itt has also worked out drier than I would expect. Yes it has rained, this is Wales, of couse it rained but the number of Mornings I have arrived at work after a good soaking, I define that as needing to change my socks, has been very few.

This morning I thought about going down the lane but the approach road convinced me to turn back to the safer route. I proceeded carefully riding a little further out than normal in places and sitting in queues rather than filter past on unpredictable surfaces. On a roundabout in Miskin I lost my back wheel twice, exciting I thought, lucky that the front continued as I wanted it too.  I did not expect that.  As I arrive at work I cross a little bit of road that is rarely used across the pavement and into the office. Eeek a van is coming, I slam on the brake and find ice. I unclip and push myself back a bit and think I have been lucky twice his morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 14 January, 2014, 04:45:09 pm
Set off from Parsons Green to get back to the office in SE1 this afternoon at the same time as my colleagues, me on my bike, them going by tube. I beat them by about 20 minutes.  :smug:

Particularly enjoyed hitting a sweet spot on Chelsea Embankment where I got tucked in behind a van for a couple of miles.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 14 January, 2014, 06:11:07 pm
Not a bad one home. Nice chat with a couple of fellow cycling commuters too!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: red marley on 14 January, 2014, 07:03:55 pm
My first entirely me-powered commute in eight months today, which was rather, er, eventful.

I still have trouble getting my leg over, as it were, on my normal bike, so am limited to bikes with a dropped top tube. I walked the 4km to my nearest Boris Bike terminal then rode the remaining 5km to work. Rather pleasant on a cool but sunny morning. As I approached  St John Street (https://maps.google.co.uk/maps?ll=51.530907,-0.105271&spn=0.021865,0.055747&t=m&z=15&layer=c&cbll=51.530872,-0.105407&panoid=b9HU0c1boEvtlE-q8qX6Uw&cbp=12,242.03,,1,6.08) there was a terrific noise and a car shot past down the hill at what must have been 50mph+ on a 20mph road. It was swiftly followed by a couple of marked police cars, a police motorbike then a couple more unmarked police cars. 10 seconds later and it would have been me they would have been negotiating at those speeds.

After recovering my composure (and waiting for the green light natch) I cycled down St John St, only to come across this...

(click to show/hide)
(photo of crash, but no injured people)

I haven't seen anything in the news about what happened, but according to one Twitter stream (https://twitter.com/jimkillock/status/423060478525726720), the driver miraculously escaped the flipped over car and then scarpered. I saw one person being treated by paramedics (presumably the motorbike rider) who also appeared to be in much better health than you might expect from such an incident.

The road was still closed off a few hours later and being examined carefully by post-crash investigators.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil W on 14 January, 2014, 07:40:25 pm
Went down on black ice and did a bit of chin surfing down the lane. Cut cheek, chin, elbow, knee but surprisingly haven't stiffened up and cycled back home tonight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 14 January, 2014, 07:48:29 pm
Hope it all heals up quickly!  And, because tradition demands it.... how's the bike?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 14 January, 2014, 07:56:13 pm

Quote from: jo on 14 January, 2014, 07:03:55 pm
My first entirely me-powered commute in eight months today, which was rather, er, eventful.

Chapeau. Does indeed sound eventful!

Quote
I still have trouble getting my leg over, as it were, on my normal bike, so am limited to bikes with a dropped top tube. 

My dad has the same problem because of his artificial hip. The trick I showed him was to lay the bike down flat, straddle the crossbar, then lift the bike back to upright.

Alternatively, it could be just the excuse you need to get a recumbent!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 14 January, 2014, 07:59:59 pm
Quote from: jo on 14 January, 2014, 07:03:55 pm
My first entirely me-powered commute in eight months today, which was rather, er, eventful.

Pleased to hear you're back on two wheels, Jo.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil W on 14 January, 2014, 08:10:31 pm
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 14 January, 2014, 07:48:29 pm
Hope it all heals up quickly!  And, because tradition demands it.... how's the bike?

Bike is fine, and needs to be, my next 200 is Saturday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 14 January, 2014, 08:15:37 pm
I got a low stand-over bike for a friend who had difficulties in lifting his feet higher than a kerb. He has no hassle with standard cranks though. Something like the lowest of these http://www.commuterbikestore.com/city-bikes/step-through-frame-citybikes.html
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: red marley on 14 January, 2014, 08:23:02 pm
Thanks for the good wishes and bike advice. Physiotherapy is slowly sorting out lifty-leg issues so I hope will cease to be a problem in time.

BTW, more details on the car pursuit incident (http://www.london24.com/news/man_suffers_life_changing_injuries_in_police_chase_crash_1_3206563).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 14 January, 2014, 08:31:35 pm
Zoinks blimey! Sounds like somewhat more than a traffic case. Hope your next commute is a bit quieter!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 14 January, 2014, 08:32:17 pm
Battery Fecking Lights.

They fade, then they die, and they are shite.


Good to hear you're back on a person-powered commute jo. May tomorrow's be a bit less interesting.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hulver on 15 January, 2014, 09:24:02 am
I had a few interesting overtakes yesterday.

First one was on the way to work, I cross a narrow bridge with no visibility and traffic has to wait behind to overtake. I had a small bus behind me, which overtook as soon as he could see the road was clear in front. Perfect pass and great patient driving from the bus driver. It was however, followed very closely by one of those massive pick-up truck twat wagons (Nissan Navara or something like that). There was no way he could have seen that the way in front was clear, because he was so close up the back end of the bus.

Then on my way back home for lunch there was a queue of idiots. The first was a mini who started trying to overtake on the blind brow of the bridge and nearly drove into oncoming traffic, then sat less than a metre from my back wheel until she could overtake. I gave her a death stare, which unfortunately coincided with white van man idiot number 2 beeping his horn. She looked at my death stare and said "It wasn't me" then shouted something out of the car which I couldn't make out.

When the road was finally clear she overtook, followed closely by beeping white van man who gestured and stared at me on the way past.

They were then followed by boy racer, who over took into oncoming traffic, forcing them to stop completely to avoid a collision.

I hope that's my quota of above average idiots for the week.

It's almost enough to make me use the cycle path next to the road, which I would if it didn't have such agressive anti-cyclist defenses. I swear it takes longer to manouver through the gates at each end than it does to actually ride the distance, which is why I take the road. Plus it's easier to turn right when you're on the road, rather then having to cross two busy lanes of traffic if you take the cycle route.

Map here (https://maps.google.com/?ll=53.326087,-1.328777&spn=0.00471,0.0109&t=h&z=17) if anybody's interested. The part between Forge lane and Rother Valley way (which I turn right into).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 15 January, 2014, 01:29:44 pm
Quote from: jo on 14 January, 2014, 08:23:02 pm
Thanks for the good wishes and bike advice. Physiotherapy is slowly sorting out lifty-leg issues so I hope will cease to be a problem in time.

BTW, more details on the car pursuit incident (http://www.london24.com/news/man_suffers_life_changing_injuries_in_police_chase_crash_1_3206563).

It’s good to hear you’re on two wheels again. I saw a different pic of that incident on twitter yesterday, looked very nasty.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 16 January, 2014, 09:02:49 am
I nearly got a "kill" this morning.

It's dark. There's bushes and overhanging trees. Approaching a boating lake puddle I look behind to check it's safe to go around it. Look forward again and AAARGGHH!!! STOP! STOP! :o

What I saw in my two front lights and headtorch was: dark green hat, black coat, dark blue trousers, black boots, black gloves and black rucksack. Pillock must have been walking along the edge of the road where his apparel blended nicely with the background, and decided to cross the road without looking. Upon being asked "Did your Mummy not teach you the kerb-drill"? he went off on a sweary rant about how I could have killed him, how I should open my fucking eyes( :facepalm: - did I mention the way he was dressed and the lack of light?) and how I shouldn't be out on my own. I rode off saying "When's the funeral? Carry on like that and it's only a matter of time!"

Nice way to start a morning.  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 16 January, 2014, 09:07:58 am
Nice tail wind in this morning, helped my pootle as I am rather sore after PT yesterday!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 16 January, 2014, 06:51:13 pm
And suffer from the headwind on the way home!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 17 January, 2014, 08:02:23 am
http://youtu.be/Ftahz9CGCCc
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris N on 17 January, 2014, 08:30:32 am
Dark, headwind, dodgy knee, busy roads. :(
First commute since Christmas. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 17 January, 2014, 08:43:06 am
Riding up Peckham Rye, about 4.30 pm, yesterday, I could see the temporary traffic light about half way up which reduces it to one lane each way for a bit, was red, so I slowed down a little, hoping to time my arrival with a change to green.  I could see a car already pulling up to stop at the red, then the driver seemed to change his mind and suddenly accelerated through.  At the same time, bus was coming through in the opposite direction.  I arrived at the light, which was still red and waited to see what might happen... impasse.  Car driver obviously refusing to reverse, even though at this point he had time and space to do so.  Bus, I assumed was unable to, even if he was willing to do so.  And, sure enough, when my light turned green and I came up to them, there was a long stream of traffic behind the bus.  I hopped on to the pavement, at this point, to get round the blocking car and rejoined the road.  The stream of cars behind me just had to sit behind the blocking driver.   Still wondering what possessed the driver who began this chaos, to jump that light in the first place... a big, red bus in your face is hard to miss.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 17 January, 2014, 08:51:46 am
For the second time this week, my caution at mini roundabouts has been well placed.

100 yards from my front door, approaching mini roundabout, intending to turn left. Aware of the sound of car approaching from my right, no audio clue that it is slowing so I start to brake. I'm now on the roundabout and can see a red Land Rover approaching which just sails accross the junction. The driver was very starttled by my shout of 'Good morning you blind fuck!'- the vehicle swerved as he jumped.

Earlier in the week it was a Jaguar that didn't hear me. He jumped as he got out of the car outside the paper shop and I advised him of his poor eyesight.

Apart from that, all was good- rain had stopped just as I got ready to leave.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 17 January, 2014, 09:05:13 am
Quote from: fuzzy on 17 January, 2014, 08:51:46 am
For the second time this week, my caution at mini roundabouts has been well placed.

100 yards from my front door, approaching mini roundabout, intending to turn left. Aware of the sound of car approaching from my right, no audio clue that it is slowing so I start to brake. I'm now on the roundabout and can see a red Land Rover approaching which just sails accross the junction. The driver was very starttled by my shout of 'Good morning you blind fuck!'- the vehicle swerved as he jumped.
I'm confused Fuzzy.  Wouldn't you normally give way to a vehicle approaching from the right?  Or are you talking about two different cars?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 17 January, 2014, 09:12:20 am
Quote from: fuzzy on 17 January, 2014, 08:51:46 am


Apart from that, all was good- rain had stopped just as I got ready to leave.

That's because it was all dumped on me in the space of 5 minutes last night, there's none left.

Warning: This post may contain traces of nuts and inaccuracy
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 17 January, 2014, 09:18:13 am
Quote from: Basil on 17 January, 2014, 09:05:13 am
Quote from: fuzzy on 17 January, 2014, 08:51:46 am
For the second time this week, my caution at mini roundabouts has been well placed.

100 yards from my front door, approaching mini roundabout, intending to turn left. Aware of the sound of car approaching from my right, no audio clue that it is slowing so I start to brake. I'm now on the roundabout and can see a red Land Rover approaching which just sails accross the junction. The driver was very starttled by my shout of 'Good morning you blind fuck!'- the vehicle swerved as he jumped.
I'm confused Fuzzy.  Wouldn't you normally give way to a vehicle approaching from the right?  Or are you talking about two different cars?

My bad Basil- they were approaching from my left- I typed right because I was thinking of them giving way to me on their right ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 17 January, 2014, 09:22:25 am
Quote from: fuzzy on 17 January, 2014, 09:18:13 am
Quote from: Basil on 17 January, 2014, 09:05:13 am
Quote from: fuzzy on 17 January, 2014, 08:51:46 am
For the second time this week, my caution at mini roundabouts has been well placed.

100 yards from my front door, approaching mini roundabout, intending to turn left. Aware of the sound of car approaching from my right, no audio clue that it is slowing so I start to brake. I'm now on the roundabout and can see a red Land Rover approaching which just sails accross the junction. The driver was very starttled by my shout of 'Good morning you blind fuck!'- the vehicle swerved as he jumped.
I'm confused Fuzzy.  Wouldn't you normally give way to a vehicle approaching from the right?  Or are you talking about two different cars?

My bad Basil- they were approaching from my left- I typed right because I was thinking of them giving way to me on their right ::-)

Fuck me but I'm a twat ::-)

I have just read my original post and I have really screwed up my left and rights.

This is how it SHOULD read-

For the second time this week, my caution at mini roundabouts has been well placed.

100 yards from my front door, approaching mini roundabout, intending to turn right. Aware of the sound of car approaching from my left, no audio clue that it is slowing so I start to brake. I'm now on the roundabout and can see a red Land Rover approaching which just sails accross the junction. The driver was very startled by my shout of 'Good morning you blind fuck!'- the vehicle swerved as he jumped.

Message to self- think before you type, check before you post. Idiot.


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 17 January, 2014, 09:55:29 am
Oh, and make sure you remember the number plate so that you can place a marker on the PNC for careless driving.  :demon:

Fuzzy, well done on being alert enough to accomodate others mistakes, glad you got out of both situations unscathed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 January, 2014, 11:08:54 am
Thanks for clearing that up, Fuzzy.  You had me confused, too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 17 January, 2014, 01:09:14 pm
This e-mail to Front Runner Logistics of Sunbury : -

Quote
No need for a reply, I just thought I’d like to let you know that you have an ace driver in your fleet.

This morning at 08.17 I was on my bike heading for work and was turning right onto Cadbury Road from Burgoyne Road. It was wet, cold and horrible and there was a long line of traffic approaching from my left.

One of your trucks heading North along Cadbury Road saw my predicament and flashed his lights to let me out, even though I would end up ahead of him. Clearly he had local knowledge as he knew that delay would only actually hold up his arrival at the lights at the junction with Chertsey Road/Grovelly Road.

Clearly a nice chap (I presume it was a chap) and a thoughtful, considerate driver.

If you can identify the driver for me I would be most grateful if you could pass my thanks on. Many thanks.

just produced this response : -

Quote
Thank you very much for your email! It’s not very often that we receive compliments and usually people only take the time to complain.

I will find out who the driver was and pass on your thanks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 January, 2014, 01:11:22 pm
That's good.  And it's always worth giving compliments where you can.

You don't mention the company name...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 17 January, 2014, 01:19:04 pm
Quote from: clarion on 17 January, 2014, 01:11:22 pm
That's good.  And it's always worth giving compliments where you can.

You don't mention the company name...
I realised that and have edited the post. :-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 January, 2014, 01:23:21 pm
:thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 17 January, 2014, 01:58:02 pm
Lovely journey into town in bright sunshine.

Terrible journey back in the teeth of a very cold, heavy shower.

Some you win, some you lose.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 17 January, 2014, 04:52:29 pm
Quote from: hatler on 17 January, 2014, 01:09:14 pm
This e-mail to Front Runner Logistics of Sunbury : -

Quote
...[tale of considerate driving]...

just produced this response : -

Quote
Thank you very much for your email! It’s not very often that we receive compliments and usually people only take the time to complain.

I will find out who the driver was and pass on your thanks.

On a similar note...

I just logged on and came to find this thread in order to post:
Quote
Hi,

I am an occasional commuter on my bike on the B1228 between York and Elvington.  It isn't a particularly nice road to cycle on, particularly at commuter times when it tends to be fairly busy with drivers in a hurry in both directions, as the lanes are pretty narrow and the sightlines aren't great.  It's fairly common for me to experience somewhat alarmingly close passes from overtaking vehicles - as happened to me this morning, in fact, when an HGV passed me fairly close as I was approaching the particularly nasty corner here http://goo.gl/maps/Jl4eK and then pulled in abruptly because of an oncoming vehicle and nearly side swiped me.  It's not the way you want your day to start, I can tell you.

 But, a little further down the road, one of your drivers really restored my faith in human nature.  I was plodding along - it's Friday and the wind was against me, which makes for a bit of a dreary trudge into the office even without near-death experiences to spoil your morning.  On the road approaching the Maize Maze I was aware of an HGV behind me.  Bracing myself for the worst, I pedalled on.  However the driver stayed well back, allowing plenty of space.  A completely steady engine note, not a hint of revving up to be heard.  I know that there is a large layby just opposite the Maze site - it's one of the places that I tend to pull over when riding at busy times on the B1228 to allow any following vehicles a chance to get past safely.  I indicated that I was pulling over - whilst your driver still held back, and didn't even start to accelerate past me until I was safely off the carriageway where I gave him a 'thank you' wave.  A wave which was returned, together with a cheerful-sounding "bip bip".

It sounds like a small thing - just a driver doing their job properly and professionally.  But it made my day a better day and I'd be very grateful if you are able to let whoever from your company was driving on the B1228 towards Elvington a little before 9 this morning know that it was appreciated.

Which was sent to Potter Logistics (http://www.potterlogistics.co.uk/) after this morning's commute :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 January, 2014, 04:53:48 pm
:D  I like this thread all of a sudden.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 17 January, 2014, 05:03:41 pm
Quote from: clarion on 17 January, 2014, 04:53:48 pm
:D  I like this thread all of a sudden.
Yes! It can be a bit of a grumble rant fest at times. I think it's good to point out these examples of decent driving, not only to redeem our own faith in human nature but because there do seem to be differences in driving style by company - I can only assume it's either to do with training they have/not received or perhaps more probably a 'corporate culture'. The M&S lorries that drive up and down the A38 between Bristol and Gloucester are rather horrid, whereas the Downton trucks (nothing to do with any poncey abbey!) are all considerate, patient, wide-passing and decent. Etc etc.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 18 January, 2014, 09:47:18 am
Quote from: SteveC on 14 January, 2014, 12:30:22 pm
Failed commute for me. MrsC had to scrape the car windscreen this morning, but it wasn't too bad by the time I got out.
The only strange thing for the first half of the ride was that the cars coming the other way were going very slowly.
Almost at the halfway point and there's a van on the other side of the road, hazards on. Odd.
As I passed it I realised the road was covered with a sheet of ice. Which I slid most gracefully along for a bit. On my side.
<snip>
I've not commuted again this week as bits of me kept complaining! Did take the bike into work in the car for a lunchtime ride on Friday. The bike seems to be just about OK (problem with a gear change at one point) and I survived!
I've decided that, while it's still so wet round here, I'll not ride into work if MrsC has to scrape the car. I just won't feel safe at the moment.  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hulver on 19 January, 2014, 11:13:53 am
First full week of commuting on the bike for quite some time. I'm still waiting for the cold weather so I can get the best out of the winter tyres I've fitted.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 20 January, 2014, 08:55:24 am
I lost a glove on Friday. As a result, painfully cold fingers on the ride to the station this morning.

That's decided it. Glove shopping this lunchtime.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 20 January, 2014, 09:13:49 am
Quote from: citoyen on 20 January, 2014, 08:55:24 am
I lost a glove on Friday. As a result, painfully cold fingers on the ride to the station this morning.

That's decided it. Glove shopping this lunchtime.

Whereas I was fully gloved and have, 15 minutes after arrival, just regained the feeling in my thumbs.  Bit nippy wasn't it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 20 January, 2014, 09:30:47 am
^^^^
This

I also rolled out the big guns coat this morning - my trusty Gore Primaloft that I got in a sale a couple of years back (and it was mistakenly marked down even cheaper than it should have been). I can wear standard short sleeve layers under it at the moment, and graduate to long sleeved ones if the temperatures head south of freezing.  It was about 1C this morning, and foggy in my part of South West London.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 20 January, 2014, 09:33:17 am
Ice, ice, baby .... not quite harsh enough to warrant fitting the FFE1 to the singlespeed though.
Fortunately, I haz traction control :) Temperature was a balmy -5C coming across York racecourse.

(didn't stop the front-end of the bike almost washing out coming through the Park & SlRide though)

1 - Fat Front End. Pugsley still isn't fully built, so half-fat is as far as I can go at the moment.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 20 January, 2014, 09:37:43 am
Four miles south of the river was, today, considerably balmier than nine miles north of it, where it remains brrrrrrrr.......

I usually remove layers as I get into the ride and warm up  - today it was opposite - I was putting them on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 20 January, 2014, 09:47:53 am
This morning's ride looked a little bit like this:

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc3/1491607_10151833119901636_22658119_n.jpg)

Totally worth it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 20 January, 2014, 10:09:21 am
Cold and busy this morning. Managed to misplace my Walz merino winter hat so ended up with cold ears too! Have bought a skull cap and some glove liners to for extra protection!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hulver on 20 January, 2014, 10:15:16 am
Blimey that was a bit chilly. Cold head despite the buff and helmet this morning, and the full gloves I've got weren't up to keeping my hands warm. I was only out in it for 10 minutes!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PeeJay on 20 January, 2014, 10:32:10 am
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 17 January, 2014, 04:52:29 pm


On a similar note...

I just logged on and came to find this thread in order to post:
Quote
Hi,

I am an occasional commuter on my bike on the B1228 between York and Elvington.  It isn't a particularly nice road to cycle on, particularly at commuter times when it tends to be fairly busy with drivers in a hurry in both directions, as the lanes are pretty narrow and the sightlines aren't great.  It's fairly common for me to experience somewhat alarmingly close passes from overtaking vehicles - as happened to me this morning, in fact, when an HGV passed me fairly close as I was approaching the particularly nasty corner here http://goo.gl/maps/Jl4eK and then pulled in abruptly because of an oncoming vehicle and nearly side swiped me.  It's not the way you want your day to start, I can tell you.

 But, a little further down the road, one of your drivers really restored my faith in human nature.  I was plodding along - it's Friday and the wind was against me, which makes for a bit of a dreary trudge into the office even without near-death experiences to spoil your morning.  On the road approaching the Maize Maze I was aware of an HGV behind me.  Bracing myself for the worst, I pedalled on.  However the driver stayed well back, allowing plenty of space.  A completely steady engine note, not a hint of revving up to be heard.  I know that there is a large layby just opposite the Maze site - it's one of the places that I tend to pull over when riding at busy times on the B1228 to allow any following vehicles a chance to get past safely.  I indicated that I was pulling over - whilst your driver still held back, and didn't even start to accelerate past me until I was safely off the carriageway where I gave him a 'thank you' wave.  A wave which was returned, together with a cheerful-sounding "bip bip".

It sounds like a small thing - just a driver doing their job properly and professionally.  But it made my day a better day and I'd be very grateful if you are able to let whoever from your company was driving on the B1228 towards Elvington a little before 9 this morning know that it was appreciated.

Which was sent to Potter Logistics (http://www.potterlogistics.co.uk/) after this morning's commute :)

Check out @PotterLogistics's Tweet: https://twitter.com/PotterLogistics/status/425208630607364096

:)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 20 January, 2014, 10:33:39 am
I was the only one in my street who didn't have to spend ages de-icing their vehicle.  :smug:
Only trouble was that once I'd started off (very gingerly), I couldn't locate the heater switch.  :(
 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 20 January, 2014, 10:40:57 am
Quote from: PeeJay on 20 January, 2014, 10:32:10 am
Check out @PotterLogistics's Tweet: https://twitter.com/PotterLogistics/status/425208630607364096

:)

They asked permission to share it first an' evryfink.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 20 January, 2014, 11:35:29 am
Still no commuting, due to nasty whiplash still lingering about... :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 20 January, 2014, 01:22:36 pm
As has been noted above, this morning was a chuffing chilly ride. Good to have a Sealskinz skull cap to keep me lugoles warm.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 20 January, 2014, 05:29:20 pm
That was fun! A couple of quick people to keep the pace up and the roads were not too bad. Shame one person doesn't understand shoulder checks and that my front wheel needs a little more room! I am not sure some would approve but I like a nice commute with people of similar pace with a bit of chat thrown in!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 20 January, 2014, 07:43:14 pm
SmallestCub and I decided to HTFU and tandem it to school.  I didn't squeal too badly on the icy bits.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 20 January, 2014, 08:05:37 pm
Wore the winter gloves today despite their lack of padding, was a good choice. Still a bit cold on the finger front and my toes were freezing on the way in but was nice pootling across the frosty marshes.

Was home was warmer but I'm looking forward to commuting in the light, a bit dull in the darkness.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 20 January, 2014, 08:31:08 pm
It definitely feels like harder work in the cold, I was huffing and puffing this morning. Brrrrrrrr.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 21 January, 2014, 08:44:42 am
Busy out there this morning, cars and cyclists. I also ended up with fog in my beard!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 21 January, 2014, 08:58:54 am
I'm trying to be relaxed about it (http://youtu.be/149jGeIlx3I)

I've got the right tyres, I took it steady, I breathed in through my nose and out through my mouth. We could have another 4 months of this.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimC on 21 January, 2014, 09:04:37 am
Till May???!!! God, I hope not.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 21 January, 2014, 09:11:39 am
Just a tad greasy and chilly out there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 21 January, 2014, 09:23:15 am
Cold toes!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 21 January, 2014, 09:34:30 am
Yesterday,I chose to ensure I didn't mss the train and walked to the station (it's quicker than kitting up and riding to the station) however that means walking from the station to work and my hip said 'no' later in the day. Therefore today I took the bike but then forgot my walking stick.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 21 January, 2014, 10:47:11 am
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 21 January, 2014, 09:23:15 am
Cold toes!
This.

And ice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 21 January, 2014, 11:04:18 am
It's pretty mild up here.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 21 January, 2014, 11:08:41 am
Quote from: Pingu on 21 January, 2014, 11:04:18 am
It's pretty mild up here.
There's a 'thaw' going on at the moment - I got copiously dripped on by various trees going along Terry Avenue. Could be Extreme FunTM later on if it (re)freezes, since from York City Council's point of view gritting is something that other people do.

As things stand now, it's just a bit grey and bleurgh.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 21 January, 2014, 11:12:59 am
After much faffing, faffing that would have been impressive even at an audax control, I left a few minutes later than usual this morning.  I was astonished at how much lighter it was at that time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: graculus on 21 January, 2014, 02:52:18 pm
Close one this morning. I went into town to take a library book before work. Heading NW out of Wolverhampton I can either take NCN 81, which is a right dog's breakfast, or do the first part on the A41. Today I did the latter. It is slightly downhill and even I can do 20 mph for the distance which make mingling with the traffic do-able and not too unpleasant.

 Except this morning when I am less than 20 feet away from a pedestrian crossing an old gent looks towards me, thinks 'No Car = Safe' and steps out. Fortunately he only took one step and then stepped back smartly onto the pavement. My fear was that if he had continued the others waiting would have followed suit and it would have been hard to avoid playing pedestrian skittles. At that speed we could all have been looking forward to a trip to Newcross courtesy of W,Midlands ambulance service.

I didn't think it had affected me but it obviously did at some level. I took several photos at work (for use in my website) and when I downloaded them at home they were all unusable because of camera shake.

I was in the middle of the lane at the time and I had a hi-viz jacket on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Reg.T on 21 January, 2014, 03:10:26 pm
Do you mean a zebra crossing? If so, I think you were very lucky, as I think you should have been in a position to stop. (Not sure whether you realise this or not).

From the highway code:
195
Zebra crossings. As you approach a zebra crossing
    look out for pedestrians waiting to cross and be ready to slow down or stop to let them cross
    you MUST give way when a pedestrian has moved onto a crossing
    allow more time for stopping on wet or icy roads
    do not wave or use your horn to invite pedestrians across; this could be dangerous if another vehicle is approaching
    be aware of pedestrians approaching from the side of the crossing.

And for pedestrians:
19
Zebra crossings. Give traffic plenty of time to see you and to stop before you start to cross. Vehicles will need more time when the road is slippery. Wait until traffic has stopped from both directions or the road is clear before crossing. Remember that traffic does not have to stop until someone has moved onto the crossing. Keep looking both ways, and listening, in case a driver or rider has not seen you and attempts to overtake a vehicle that has stopped.

So, as I read it, as soon as a ped is waiting, the road user should stop, but as soon as the ped has set foot onto the crossing the road user must stop. However the ped shouldn't put a foot out until it is safe, so it's not entirely clear.

Not meaning to preach at you. I know these incidents can be quite marginal, and can have quite an impact on all concerned even when a collision has been avoided. Take care.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: graculus on 21 January, 2014, 03:22:04 pm
My OP was unclear I now realise. It was a pelican crossing, the lights for traffic were green as I was approaching, they were green when the pedestrian stepped onto the crossing (ie red for him unless the crossing had malfunctioned) and were still green for traffic when I looked back, and there was a car passing over the crossing by that time.

Your other points are a timely reminder at this time of yeay when roads can be wet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Reg.T on 21 January, 2014, 03:49:38 pm
OK. In situations like that I try to be very vigilant and ready to shout and/or brake as needed. Still haven't worked out what the best thing to shout is, though.

I was filtering towards a pelican crossing (at red) the other night, when a girl decided to cross right in front of me as there were stationary cars queueing, and she'd have had to wait if she'd walked on to the actual crossing. More interested in looking at her phone than for any other traffic. Earphones in too, so my shout was only just heard, and I had to brake too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: graculus on 21 January, 2014, 04:17:08 pm
Quote from: Reg.T on 21 January, 2014, 03:49:38 pm
OK. In situations like that I try to be very vigilant and ready to shout and/or brake as needed. Still haven't worked out what the best thing to shout is, though.
I can think of a few choice expressions!

Obviously it is of no consolation to anyone who is 'right' or 'wrong' when we're all down on the floor with bruises if nothing worse. I had just got my fingers round the brake levers and was starting to squeeze when the man stepped back. I would have got a small amount of braking done, but in no way been able to stop, I suspect my more likely reflex reaction if he had walked out far enough to be in my line would have been to swerve - which probably would have worked so long as I didn't come off.

I know from experience that trying to shout is no good - all that comes out is a strangled squeak. I do try to be vigilant. I think that the man simply had no idea that bikes could move that quickly. I think that is the main thing I have learned from the experience.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 21 January, 2014, 07:04:30 pm
On my way to work this morning, I heard sirens, and a couple of police cars shot across the junction doing the whole blues and twos thing.  That's pretty much normal, I expect to see an emergency vehicle going past me at full blast about once a day on average, but these two were both from the Dog Section, which is somewhat less usual.  You'd think that the necessity for dogs isn't generally going to require that degree of urgency.  Either the vehicles were being used for some other purpose, or possibly the dog handlers are also used when an aggressive dog needs to be dealt with, since they'll presumably have more knowledge and experience of such situations.

After that, whilst cycling along Windmill Drive (https://maps.google.co.uk/maps?ll=51.455892,-0.145741&spn=0.014133,0.033023&t=m&z=16&layer=c&cbll=51.456636,-0.146723&panoid=WWTbzi7n_Wl9jUIowEPBGg&cbp=12,278.01,,0,11.23) which crosses Clapham Common, I met another police vehicle also using their lights and siren, which was an unusual location.  You'd expect them to avoid that road, since it's pretty easy to meet a vehicle coming the other direction, with little room to manoeuvre.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: wajcgac on 21 January, 2014, 07:12:28 pm
Plenty of ice around on my commute this morning. I had a pedestrian warn me about some black ice that was at the bottom of a hill I was heading towards which was good of him.

I've got Schwalbe Winter studded tyres on the MTB that I use in these conditions but still took it steady.

There are a couple of other places that seem to be ice prone on my commute, on one of them I made a slightly sharper/faster turn than I needed to and I felt the rear wheel go before it gained grip again. Enough to up the pulse rate a bit.

Pretty sure I would have been off if it wasn't for the studs.

I'll check the tyre pressure as I might benefit from letting a bit of air out, (when I fitted them I pumped them up to the max rating for the riding in period) but the lesson I'll take from this is to still be careful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 21 January, 2014, 07:14:56 pm
Foggy!

Raised comments at the meeting on new mega-project by turning up with a coating of frozen water mist on my arms and head.

Beautiful ride home though, once the sun had burnt it's way through.
Title: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 21 January, 2014, 07:15:37 pm
Not actually my commute but a friend posted this on Facebook - a bit blurred but you can just about make it out. Anyone we know?

(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k170/smutchin/7B113A23-CAE7-47E4-BB8F-32C40DDE6FFC_zpsaakaulsw.jpg)

For those about to cycle home, we salute you!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 21 January, 2014, 07:50:52 pm
Rode m'bike.  Didn't fall off or freeze to death.  That'll do.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 21 January, 2014, 08:10:36 pm
Perfectly functional pootle home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 21 January, 2014, 08:13:59 pm
A good ride home, not particularly fast and a bit of headwind to contend with but rather pleasant overall.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonJo on 21 January, 2014, 08:33:41 pm
I saw a hare. Not many round here so chuffed to see it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 21 January, 2014, 08:39:16 pm
It's a headwind. It is a headwind. It IS a headwind. It IS A HEADWIND.

All that positive thinking managed to keep the real cause of the heavy pedalling inflated until 20 yards before home. Result.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 21 January, 2014, 08:40:46 pm
Well, after changing tonight, I left my desk carrying pannier, cap and two gloves, I arrived at my bike with only one glove.  So I retraced my steps.  Back through the bike park, across the car park, up four floors of stairs and all the way back to my desk.  Not a sign anywhere.  ???  How the hell has that happened?
So I had to ride home with one naked hand.
Ouchy
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 21 January, 2014, 08:48:20 pm

Quote from: JonJo on 21 January, 2014, 08:33:41 pm
I saw a hare. Not many round here so chuffed to see it.

You've just reminded me - I saw a hare one morning last week, on my way to the station. At least, I think it was a hare. Too big and too fast to be a rabbit. It was literally haring across a field. But I don't expect to see hares round here so was unsure.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 21 January, 2014, 08:50:32 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 21 January, 2014, 07:15:37 pm
Not actually my commute but a friend posted this on Facebook - a bit blurred but you can just about make it out. Anyone we know?

(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k170/smutchin/7B113A23-CAE7-47E4-BB8F-32C40DDE6FFC_zpsaakaulsw.jpg)

For those about to cycle home, we salute you!
Enhance 224 to 176.
Enhance stop.
Cannot make out anything other than AC DC (?) from your photo, D.
In any case, it wasn't me.
My commute home was in the remains of daylight at 17:15
Joy!
I'll consider myself as having been saluted - Like CL I didn't fall off or freeze to deth  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 21 January, 2014, 08:53:50 pm

Quote from: Jurek on 21 January, 2014, 08:50:32 pm
Cannot make out anything other than AC DC (?) from your photo, D.

Nazareth
Alice Cooper
AC/DC

Any North London-based heavy rock fans in the forum?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Trull on 21 January, 2014, 10:05:23 pm
Quote from: Basil on 21 January, 2014, 08:40:46 pm
Well, after changing tonight, I left my desk carrying pannier, cap and two gloves, I arrived at my bike with only one glove.  <SNIP>  How the hell has that happened?
So I had to ride home with one naked hand.
Ouchy
I've taken to having three sets of gloves, conventional full finger stretch +10oC, waterproof and good to about zero, and "Aberdeen style" waterproof ski gloves good down to -20 . The pest is that I need all three in a typical winter's day commute. Still they fill up the bag nicely...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 22 January, 2014, 08:11:11 am
Weird drizzle this morning. I got wetter riding with than wind than when riding into it. ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jsabine on 22 January, 2014, 08:34:23 am
Quote from: Reg.T on 21 January, 2014, 03:49:38 pm
OK. In situations like that I try to be very vigilant and ready to shout and/or brake as needed. Still haven't worked out what the best thing to shout is, though.

In that sort of situation I go with "Oi!", sort of punched upwards from the diaphragm.

Short, sharp, not offensive (or sweary ...) and seems to be audible inside cars ...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 22 January, 2014, 08:40:43 am
Very busy traffic today
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hulver on 22 January, 2014, 08:49:17 am
I dropped a massive box off at work in the car last night, going past some work men setting up some temporary traffic lights. I thought it was just for overnight work, but when I left the house this morning traffic was queueing for miles.

I was quite fun cycling past everybody, and I actually used the cycle path this morning (despite the anti-cyclist gates) to avoid the traffic lights.

Two muppet moments. One where I misjudged a gap and rode slowly into a curb, almost falling off but saving my self by leaning on a bollard. The other was from somebody else, who had pulled up too close to a junction while queuing to let traffic out, and decided to start reversing just as I was crossing the road behind him. My "OI" stopped him, thankfully. It also earned me a dirty look from the passenger who had the window wound down.

No difference to my commute time (well maybe a few seconds as I filtered past the traffic a bit slower than I'd usually cycle). Plenty of frustration for anybody in a car.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 22 January, 2014, 09:02:19 am
Found my glove this morning.  Someone had put it on top of the electronic door beeper thing at the car park entrance.  I wish they'd done that last night.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 22 January, 2014, 09:33:32 am
Quote from: jsabine on 22 January, 2014, 08:34:23 am
Quote from: Reg.T on 21 January, 2014, 03:49:38 pm
OK. In situations like that I try to be very vigilant and ready to shout and/or brake as needed. Still haven't worked out what the best thing to shout is, though.
In that sort of situation I go with "Oi!", sort of punched upwards from the diaphragm.

Short, sharp, not offensive (or sweary ...) and seems to be audible inside cars ...
I've found that shouting 'OI' inflames tempers out of all proportion to the intent.

'YO' seems to be a less inflammatory call.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 22 January, 2014, 09:48:12 am
The rain was waiting for me this morning. It started when I was about 200m from home and stopped about 5 mins after I reached work. No doubt it will try the same again this evening :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 22 January, 2014, 10:00:15 am
An hour and a half on the bloody bus  >:(

Decided to have a rest day today, since my quads are giving me royal grief as a result of giving it a bit of juice on the way home last night.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 22 January, 2014, 11:52:12 am
Quote from: mcshroom on 22 January, 2014, 09:48:12 am
The rain was waiting for me this morning. It started when I was about 200m from home and stopped about 5 mins after I reached work. No doubt it will try the same again this evening :(
I thought I'd got away with just drizzle but it kicked it down so much in the km between gym & work it might as well have been raining that much home-train, too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 22 January, 2014, 11:59:12 am
I did a 2 hour commute this morning and stayed totally dry  :smug: :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 January, 2014, 12:00:30 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 21 January, 2014, 08:53:50 pm

Quote from: Jurek on 21 January, 2014, 08:50:32 pm
Cannot make out anything other than AC DC (?) from your photo, D.

Nazareth
Alice Cooper
AC/DC

Any North London-based heavy rock fans in the forum?

I've heard of those three, but not a band called Northwave
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 22 January, 2014, 01:23:37 pm
Quote from: clarion on 22 January, 2014, 12:00:30 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 21 January, 2014, 08:53:50 pm

Quote from: Jurek on 21 January, 2014, 08:50:32 pm
Cannot make out anything other than AC DC (?) from your photo, D.

Nazareth
Alice Cooper
AC/DC

Any North London-based heavy rock fans in the forum?

I've heard of those three, but not a band called Northwave

They seem to be electronica
https://myspace.com/northwavemusic/ (https://myspace.com/northwavemusic/)
He'll have to try harder than that if he wants to claim being eclectic :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 22 January, 2014, 07:10:25 pm
First cycle commute since my off on the ice last week. There were a couple of 'erk' moments (I knew it wasn't icy, but...) and riding past where I came off last week (and two cars have ended up on their sides as well) was a little nerve jangling. And then we and a nice 15 miler at lunchtime and the commute home wasn't in the dark (I finish at 5.00). Needed lights to be seen by but not to see the road.

 ;D ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 22 January, 2014, 07:51:08 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 22 January, 2014, 09:48:12 am
The rain was waiting for me this morning. It started when I was about 200m from home and stopped about 5 mins after I reached work. No doubt it will try the same again this evening :(

It did - I went the long way home though and it gave up before I finished. This was my first trip along the Seascale cycle path of the year, and the storms have dumped a serious amount of sand on it. It's not really passable on a bike with road slicks I found so a bit of walking through the new sand dunes was required. Nice to be out though :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 22 January, 2014, 07:54:09 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 22 January, 2014, 07:51:08 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 22 January, 2014, 09:48:12 am
The rain was waiting for me this morning. It started when I was about 200m from home and stopped about 5 mins after I reached work. No doubt it will try the same again this evening :(

It did - I went the long way home though and it gave up before I finished. This was my first trip along the Seascale cycle path of the year, and the storms have dumped a serious amount of sand on it. It's not really passable on a bike with road slicks I found so a bit of walking through the new sand dunes was required. Nice to be out though :)
*cough*fatbike*cough*

;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 22 January, 2014, 08:43:10 pm
Bah, that seemed liek really hard work today. Don't think there was much of a headwind. Will check tyres and brakes tomorrow but don't think it's that.

I've only really been back on the bike for the past couple weeks though, maybe three days in a row was too much too soon? I need the car tomorrow anyway so that'll give me a rest.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 22 January, 2014, 08:47:58 pm
I actually did the commute by bike. Last time was late November.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 22 January, 2014, 09:15:57 pm
With a small loop this morning, my total commuting distance was just over a mile. There and back twice. I think I could do a little further, even with the bike seat and trailer. Mind you, the little duck was asleep before I'd attachedthe trailer  to the bike this evening so I think a 3 minute commute at night is enough for him! :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 22 January, 2014, 09:24:09 pm
Quote from: Butterfly on 22 January, 2014, 09:15:57 pm
With a small loop this morning, my total commuting distance was just over a mile. There and back twice. I think I could do a little further, even with the bike seat and trailer. Mind you, the little duck was asleep before I'd attachedthe trailer  to the bike this evening so I think a 3 minute commute at night is enough for him! :)
Nice  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 22 January, 2014, 09:42:14 pm
Quote from: Butterfly on 22 January, 2014, 09:15:57 pm
With a small loop this morning, my total commuting distance was just over a mile. There and back twice.

We might have beaten you, just, with our trip to school this morning and back (via the Chinese takeaway) this evening.  I reckon it could be as much as 1.8 miles!  My tandem bruise is back.  So is the SmallestCub's tandem grin :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 22 January, 2014, 10:31:14 pm
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 22 January, 2014, 09:42:14 pm
Quote from: Butterfly on 22 January, 2014, 09:15:57 pm
With a small loop this morning, my total commuting distance was just over a mile. There and back twice.

We might have beaten you, just, with our trip to school this morning and back (via the Chinese takeaway) this evening.  I reckon it could be as much as 1.8 miles!  My tandem bruise is back.  So is the SmallestCub's tandem grin :D

 :D
I know that bruise! Changing the oil in the Circe's rear hub is getting higher on the list of priorities now the Duck can go in the bike seat, because I'll be able to carry panniers and baby on it. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 23 January, 2014, 09:10:31 am
Pootle along after noticing that the back tyre was a bit flat when dropping off the boy at nursery. The faff involved with him and the trailer bike means that I often forget my pre-flight checks. Still, was nice to cycle half the way with my wife, even if she did keep poking me when we stopped at lights! ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 23 January, 2014, 01:15:47 pm
Today as I started out I freewheeled for a bit and I thought I had a chain problem. I had a brief moment of non engagement.  I thought that will teach me not to forget oiling the thing.  So I carry on expecting the stiff thing to wear loose and I will have a closer look at the weekend.  Thirteen miles on I freewheel to a roundabout.  I do not need to stop so I start pedaling again but the wheel is not engaged at all. First thought the dirty chain has fallen off the chain ring then after another three of four turns the wheel engages again and I continue to work.  Looks like the hub needs servicing.
   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 23 January, 2014, 01:45:20 pm
Was it smoke dope in your car in a traffic jam day today?  Flippin' heck, I was nearly stoned by the time I got to work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 23 January, 2014, 02:05:58 pm
Quote from: Basil on 23 January, 2014, 01:45:20 pm
Was it smoke dope in your car in a traffic jam day today?  Flippin' heck, I was nearly stoned by the time I got to work.

Getting stoned for free ain't to be sniffed at  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 23 January, 2014, 03:58:48 pm
Quote from: fuzzy on 23 January, 2014, 02:05:58 pm
Quote from: Basil on 23 January, 2014, 01:45:20 pm
Was it smoke dope in your car in a traffic jam day today?  Flippin' heck, I was nearly stoned by the time I got to work.

Getting stoned for free ain't to be sniffed at  ;)
Oh yes it is - long and hard ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 23 January, 2014, 07:52:50 pm
Well, that was a grim commute this morning - out to my office for meetings.  Didn't have to leave until about 9:15 - it was chilly, then it got chilly and wet, then it got chilly and very wet, then it got chilly and very wet and soft at the rear, then it got chilly and sunny, then it got chilly and wet, then it got chilly and 'time to build an ark' wet.

Coming home, I needed to be back quickly as we only had one set of keys between us today due to various things with our cleaner and other things. So I took the direct route - I had forgotten just how shit the A40 between Beaconsfield and Gerard's Cross is at night. Grim, remind me not to be in a rush again anytime soon (happy to add the 5km onto my journey to not have to ride such shitty roads).  But at least it was dry.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonJo on 23 January, 2014, 08:02:51 pm
All the dog walkers (3 of 'em) on the unlit section of the C2C path from Birtley to Washington were wearing reflective clothing and two of the dogs were lit.
Which was nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 23 January, 2014, 08:15:20 pm
Tandem trip to school breakfast club then, stokerless, onwards to the office.  Except for getting 2 minutes up the road and having to u-turn (not easy with my wheelbase!) and go back to drop off his book bag that I'd forgotten to hand over.  Made the school crossing lady laugh, anyway.  Once more towards the office, pausing to stock up on cakes and cookies (Thursday is CAKE day!) on the way.  Cheated and got a bus to site for the afternoon as usual - because otherwise I wouldn't get there in time.  Then bus back to the office to collect the Helios and homeward bound.  Multi-modal commuting ftw.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 23 January, 2014, 09:31:38 pm
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 23 January, 2014, 08:15:20 pm
Tandem trip to school breakfast club then, stokerless, onwards to the office.  Except for getting 2 minutes up the road and having to u-turn (not easy with my wheelbase!) and go back to drop off his book bag that I'd forgotten to hand over.  Made the school crossing lady laugh, anyway.  Once more towards the office, pausing to stock up on cakes and cookies (Thursday is CAKE day!) on the way.  Cheated and got a bus to site for the afternoon as usual - because otherwise I wouldn't get there in time.  Then bus back to the office to collect the Helios and homeward bound.  Multi-modal commuting ftw.
yay sounds fun! :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 24 January, 2014, 09:03:34 am
Chilly out there this morning. Ended up with cold feet and hands, despite my new glove liners. Also ended up with dew in my beard- have done so for the last couple of mornings. For some reason I find it quite amusing!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 24 January, 2014, 09:34:47 am
It may be my imagination but it seems to me that the (London) evening unpleasantness hot spot has shifted from 5-6:30 to 6-7:30, alongside a massive increase in people cycling at that time (the two things may not be unconnected)

It used to feel (to me at least) that there was a frenzy around 17:00 typified by cyclist jockeying for pole position, drivers impatient to get home that created a miasma of unpleasantness. Nothing excessive, just something I preferred to avoid. The 19:00 "ooo we can use bus lanes" was tolerable. These days leaving after 18:00 seems to be far worse.

Just me?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hulver on 24 January, 2014, 09:41:41 am
I saw another cyclist on the cycle path yesterday lunch time. I normally avoid it, despite the smooth surface because of the anti-cyclist gates and the difficult road crossing at the end. I'm using it at the moment though, as it's a good way to bypass the roadworks which are causing huge queues on the road.

He was a sustrans ranger, and said that I was the first cyclist he'd seen on the path. He asked me some questions about if I used it usually, and I told him why I didn't. He actually agreed with me, and took a few pictures of me trying to fit through the anti-cyclist barriers. I forgot to tell him that the barriers were pointless anyway, as I'd seen people riding motorbikes on the path despite them. Oh well.

Maybe something will get done to make it nicer, but I doubt it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 24 January, 2014, 09:47:35 am
Quick sprint across campus as there was a lovely sunrise and I wanted to photograph the lemmings against it. Had I been a few minutes earlier I'd have had time to grab a decent camera from the office rather than rely on the phone.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 24 January, 2014, 10:19:27 am
There was a nice sunrise up here, too. Hopefully I got a good snap of it, I'll find out when I get home tonight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 24 January, 2014, 01:22:27 pm
Yesterday my plan to get home failed.  A Sportube Series 1 arrived at work.  This is a solid ski box so my skis would be less likely to be damaged by baggage handlers if I fly. A few other bits and bobs. My plan originally was to leave the box commute normally last night and catch the train today. Then I saw the weather forecast and decided to carry the box when it was dry.  So I set off to the station but as soon as I tried to mount I discovered that the box was too heavy and awkward to cycle with.  When I left the car park I was in a car free road so I felt brave enough to try again. I managed to get along here but when I met the main road I had to stop I did not have enough control for traffic.  So I walked pushing the bike and carrying the box in my other hand. My left arm was getting really tired so I tried placing the box across the bars and saddle but it tried to slide off so this was really awkward.  Eventually I found a solution mostly carrying the box in my left hand then resting it along the bike when I needed a rest.  So I arrive at the station after about 50 minutes not that bad, it would be over 30 minutes just walking or less than 15 on the bike. I get on the 17:55 Manchester train, twenty minutes later than the Cheltenham train I intended. At Cardiff I connected with a late running train. When I got to Radyr I used the wheels on the box which made walking the shorter distance much easier. I arrived home at 19:05, not bad for awkward walk train awkward walk compared to walk train walk (18:45)

This morning was much better I decided to enjoy my commute so I did.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 25 January, 2014, 10:40:10 am
Not strictly commute as it was a quick nip into town for the half price ticket booth, but on the commute route. On the way home at around 9:30 I suddenly found myself in the middle of a high speed police chase. Scary. A little later on (Stratford High Street / Wharton Road lights) they had caught him boxed in with cars and were just cuffing the scrote. Fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 27 January, 2014, 09:09:39 am
Cold and wet this morning- cured by my Castelli Espresso Due jacket. However, that didn't help with the awful traffic!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 27 January, 2014, 10:49:16 am
It was a lot colder today, however the lidl ski gloves worked well as did the 5 layers I had on me.

Back on the mtb and joy of being able to stop when I want to, rather than when the brakes feel like it is so nice.

I hope I can make it home tonight, am knackered already.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 27 January, 2014, 10:54:01 am
When the lights aren't working, the Greenwich foot tunnel is ver', ver' dark  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 January, 2014, 10:57:36 am
Wow.  I'm surprised it wasn't closed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 27 January, 2014, 11:07:47 am
Just the southern half.
The northern half was bathed in light.
Kind of freaky when the lift arrived at the bottom in inky darkness.
I thought it had stopped half way down the lift shaft.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 27 January, 2014, 11:38:58 am
I had a close call this morning. I was riding along Tooting Bec Road at a slightly norty speed. Enjoying the feeling of overtaking the nose-to tail 20mph traffic on my left when one of the cars in the queue alerted my spidey sense.
Sure enough he did one of those quick changes of lanes, just as I got alongside him.

My rational thought as I jinked out into the opposite lane was that I was glad I'd anticipated him and that there was no oncoming traffic.

Other than that, I was quite pleased to discover how well my laden commuting bike handles at 50kph!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hulver on 27 January, 2014, 02:39:28 pm
Somebody flashed me to cross the road while I was waiting to get off the cycle path this morning. Much appreciated, as it's a bit of a nightmare to cross normally.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: noggy on 27 January, 2014, 07:36:08 pm
I got on the eye by a small stone flicked up by a car, coming down fast hill

Ooooohyah :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonBuoy on 27 January, 2014, 08:46:19 pm
Spotted by a colleague a couple of weeks ago in the station bike rack:


(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2882/12178367886_f22e2821ec_z.jpg)


The note in the document wallet that is tied to the handlebars was left by said colleague two weeks ago and explains both the problem and the solution.  The bike appears to have been used daily for the last two weeks with the note flapping in the breeze.   ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 28 January, 2014, 10:24:41 am
Busy, busy, busy out there!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 28 January, 2014, 10:27:58 am
Wet, wet, wet - and I'm not talking about the 80s beat combo, either. Mostly surface water rather than dropping-from-the-sky water but it's still just as damp.

Given that it's absolutely pissing down now I suspect that a) the river will have risen enough that I'll have to take a different route home and b) by the time I get there I'll probably have webbed feet.

It's grimmer than a particularly grim thing, but it's still better than twice-daily sessions on the turbo.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 28 January, 2014, 12:49:48 pm
It took me ages to get through Pencoed this morning. Its only a village but it has schools so at the slightest hint of dampness the number of cars dropping the kids off creates a long traffic queue. Normally I can skip around the cars but today they were queuing zig-zagged and there was lots of oncoming traffic so I had to wait more often.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 28 January, 2014, 06:47:24 pm
Took the diversion that is in place because the cycle path through the barracks is closed.  The diversion goes through the allotments.  COR on a stokerless tandem....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 28 January, 2014, 06:55:24 pm
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 28 January, 2014, 06:47:24 pm
Took the diversion that is in place because the cycle path through the barracks is closed.  The diversion goes through the allotments.  COR on a stokerless tandem....
I imagine that it was Fun - I found it tricky enough on a fixed with a normal wheelbase; although matters weren't helped by having to dodge potholes and free-range students.

I'd like to take this opportunity to thank the Elf and Safe Tea knob jockeys who, in their infinite wisdom, have decided to close the road beside the Bonding Warehouse for a whole month. The diversion would be better if a) they kept the path open so I can at least push the bike along and b) the diversion didn't make you cross an insanely busy road which is frequented by insane tourists and psychotic Park and Ride drivers.

This morning's ride in wasn't too bad, but the ride home was extremely unpleasant. Were it not for the fact that I'm 60km (or 2 commutes-worth) from this months target I'd say 'fuck it' and either drive in or just work at home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 28 January, 2014, 10:33:10 pm
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 28 January, 2014, 06:47:24 pm
Took the diversion that is in place because the cycle path through the barracks is closed.  The diversion goes through the allotments.  COR on a stokerless tandem....

That sounds like something out of a Robert Rankin novel.   :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 28 January, 2014, 10:42:21 pm
Same route for the last 3 commutes & I've hit exactly the same mileages at 33.6miles.  Times have been 2hrs 7, 8 & 9 mins  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 29 January, 2014, 06:13:49 pm
Cold, wet and squally wind. Fun!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: michaelo on 29 January, 2014, 09:21:14 pm
Cold, wet and knocked off by a car diving in to get past me at a pinch point.  Cut, bruised and generally fed up by the fact they didn't even stop.

Having a beer  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 29 January, 2014, 09:45:07 pm
Quote from: michaelo on 29 January, 2014, 09:21:14 pm
Cold, wet and knocked off by a car diving in to get past me at a pinch point.  Cut, bruised and generally fed up by the fact they didn't even stop.

Having a beer  :-[

Bugger. That's entirely shit.  Hope the injuries aren't too bad.  And hope the beer is good.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 29 January, 2014, 10:27:09 pm
Quote from: michaelo on 29 January, 2014, 09:21:14 pm
Cold, wet and knocked off by a car diving in to get past me at a pinch point.  Cut, bruised and generally fed up by the fact they didn't even stop.

Having a beer  :-[
Wet in the morning.
Wet in the evening.
Not knocked off.
Heal swiftly.
Enjoy the beer.
Have another....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 29 January, 2014, 11:25:17 pm
Glad you're still with us, michaelo.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 30 January, 2014, 09:13:11 am
Light snow all the way this morning.  First time for me this year.
Then, the traffic lights at the junction from which I join the main Bristol Road were not working.  I wondered why the queue was even longer than normal.
There’s only one way to get across non working lights – you just have to be assertive.  Unfortunately the car at the front of the queue was not.  It seemed to be either waiting for the lights to magically start working again, or for a suitable gap in the traffic to pull out into.
Listen mate.  It’s the A38 in rush hour.  There are not going to be any gaps.

Cue cyclist to do the job.  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 30 January, 2014, 09:32:07 am
Dark, damp and miserabubble. Temporary lights on The Greenway. Moron trying to get in my saddlebag, revving his engine, through the roadworks. Overtook as soon as we were past the barriers. On a blind bend ::-)

It's a pity the lights didn't change ten seconds later - I would have loved to see the outcome of a head-on argument between a 3 Series beamer and a double-decker bus :o

I suppose I should put him in "Today's Motorised Moron"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 30 January, 2014, 11:16:21 am
Crazy amounts of traffic and cacky weather. Still, beats the train!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 31 January, 2014, 10:02:35 am
I will not go the long way just to make 500 miles this month.
I will not go the long way just to make 500 miles this month.
I will not go the long way just to make 500 miles this month.
I will not go the long way just to make 500 miles this month.
I will not go the long way just to make 500 miles this month.
I will not go the long way just to make 500 miles this month.
I will not go the long way just to make 500 miles this month.
I will not go the long way just to make 500 miles this month.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 31 January, 2014, 10:13:59 am
Quote from: fboab on 31 January, 2014, 10:02:35 am
I will not go the long way just to make 500 miles this month.
I will not go the long way just to make 500 miles this month.
I will not go the long way just to make 500 miles this month.
I will not go the long way just to make 500 miles this month.
I will not go the long way just to make 500 miles this month.
I will not go the long way just to make 500 miles this month.
I will not go the long way just to make 500 miles this month.
I will not go the long way just to make 500 miles this month.

Are you sure?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 31 January, 2014, 10:18:38 am
You might make 500 miles this month.  The gap is waffer thin!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 31 January, 2014, 10:27:55 am
* la la la la I'm not listening *
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 31 January, 2014, 10:29:13 am
Quote from: fboab on 31 January, 2014, 10:02:35 am
I will not go the long way just to make 500 miles this month.
I will not go the long way just to make 500 miles this month.
I will not go the long way just to make 500 miles this month.
I will not go the long way just to make 500 miles this month.
I will not go the long way just to make 500 miles this month.
I will not go the long way just to make 500 miles this month.
I will not go the long way just to make 500 miles this month.
I will not go the long way just to make 500 miles this month.

Oh G'Wan!
G'Wan G'Wan!
G'Wan G'Wan G'Wan!
G'Wan G'Wan G'Wan G'Wan!
G'Wan G'Wan G'Wan G'Wan G'Wan!
G'Wan G'Wan G'Wan G'Wan G'Wan G'Wan!
G'Wan G'Wan G'Wan G'Wan G'Wan G'Wan G'Wan!
G'Wan G'Wan G'Wan G'Wan G'Wan G'Wan G'Wan G'Wan!
 :-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 31 January, 2014, 11:00:32 am
How much extra would it be?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 31 January, 2014, 12:29:50 pm
I'm 21 miles short. Less than a couple of little hours.

No! I wont do miles for the sake of miles. I wont I wont I wont.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 31 January, 2014, 12:37:43 pm
Quote from: fboab on 31 January, 2014, 12:29:50 pm
I'm 21 miles short. Less than a couple of little hours.

No! I wont do miles for the sake of miles. I wont I wont I wont.
WTFU and get out there - you must need some shopping? ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 31 January, 2014, 12:47:16 pm
Quote from: fboab on 31 January, 2014, 12:29:50 pm
I'm 21 miles short. Less than a couple of little hours.

No! I wont do miles for the sake of miles. I wont I wont I wont.

Well, that's that, then.

But that's barely anything at all!  A wee drop in a huge ocean of audaxing.  What a shame to spoil the ship for the want of a pennorth of nail in the horseshoe or whatever.

Your choice, though.

Friday night, an all.  No work in the morning.  A great chance to enjoy the last of the respite in the weather before it closes in over the weekend.

But I wouldn't want to influence your decision.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 31 January, 2014, 01:01:16 pm
I think you might be tarring the chicken's feathers before you've counted the chips in the basket. Or something!

21 miles? It's thrice seven. Product of magic prime numbers. Feel the fate.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 31 January, 2014, 01:07:50 pm
Quote
21 is the smallest non-trivial example of a Fibonacci number whose digits are Fibonacci numbers and whose digit sum is also a Fibonacci number.

and it's a triangle number.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 31 January, 2014, 01:16:12 pm
Quote from: clarion on 31 January, 2014, 12:47:16 pm
Quote from: fboab on 31 January, 2014, 12:29:50 pm
I'm 21 miles short. Less than a couple of little hours.

No! I wont do miles for the sake of miles. I wont I wont I wont.


Your choice, though.


Well, I guess if a person never quit when the going got tough, they wouldn't have anything to regret for the rest of their life. But good luck to you fboab. I'm sure this decision won't haunt you forever.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 31 January, 2014, 01:46:23 pm
No2Son has a guest for tea that I'm cooking for (and I really like her), I need to get a (shh) run in as I didn't yesterday, I've got toothace, I'm audaxing in the morning with a <6am start and miles for the sake of miles are no fun at all.

I don't even measure my mileage in miles! I do kilometres!

(I might. What else have I got to do tonight? Knitting?)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 31 January, 2014, 01:55:40 pm
fboab- it's just a number. You do NOT need to ride those miles. Those are plenty excuses enough and it's revolting outside.

If it helps, I just checked and am on 1,298.36 miles for the month and doing absolutely nothing about it!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 31 January, 2014, 03:01:22 pm
Quote from: Lady Cavendish on 31 January, 2014, 01:55:40 pm
fboab- it's just a number. You do NOT need to ride those miles. Those are plenty excuses enough and it's revolting outside.

If it helps, I just checked and am on 1,298.36 miles for the month and doing absolutely nothing about it!

You exceeded a 1250 by 48mls - well done, above and beyond the call of duty.   

 ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 31 January, 2014, 07:18:05 pm
That was wet and mostly againsterly.
Velocity Deep V rims I have on the Pomp are like sails in the crosswind compared to the Ksyriums (hardly low profile in section) on my other bikes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 31 January, 2014, 07:33:10 pm
Indeed.  On the way there, hard work and so cold that my feet hurt despite two pairs of sox, one of them being my amazing returned from deepest darkest lostness Sox Of Great Splendour.  Took about an hour after arriving for my little toes to return.  On the way home, still fecking freezing and hoying it down too.  Slightly higher considerate drivers of HGVs:wankers in 4x4s ratio than usual though, and only two or three  swear-out-loud overtakes, one of which was on the totally blind corner.  In fairness, the overtaking vehicle did pass pretty much completely in the other lane, since I was right out in primary.  Luckily the oncoming car wasn't 30 seconds earlier.

Rode m'bike.

Didn't die.  Or hate it.

Win.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: red marley on 31 January, 2014, 07:35:01 pm
I managed to avoid the rain on a lovely walk/cycle to work this morning.

Just...

(http://www.soi.city.ac.uk/~jwo/acf/rainbow.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ruth on 31 January, 2014, 07:37:33 pm
Oh, that's nice!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 31 January, 2014, 08:49:30 pm
Quote from: jo on 31 January, 2014, 07:35:01 pm
I managed to avoid the rain on a lovely walk/cycle to work this morning.

Just...

(http://www.soi.city.ac.uk/~jwo/acf/rainbow.jpg)
Nice.
I had some of that on my way in this morning too *knows where the Ingersoll building is in C'well*  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 03 February, 2014, 08:52:14 am
Left a little later this morning and the traffic was hell. And my legs were like lead. Not my favourite commute ever.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 February, 2014, 09:43:23 am
First Capital Connect and Southern are working together very productively to convince me of the value of cycling.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 03 February, 2014, 09:46:47 am
Quote from: clarion on 03 February, 2014, 09:43:23 am
First Capital Connect and Southern are working together very productively to convince me of the value of cycling.

Sounds like my day on Friday. Made me love my bike commute even more!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 03 February, 2014, 11:31:50 am
Had a frustrating run-in with a pug who was intent on yapping around my front wheel in Battersea Park.
I stopped, the dog was called to heel. As soon as I moved off it dove in for the attack again.

A very polite remonstration with its owner was met with "well it is a park, you have to expect dogs".
"Yes, I do expect dogs. Dogs, kept under proper control by their owners", if he doesn't like cyclists, why not walk him in the parts of the park where there aren't any cyclists?" - BLANK stare.

Honestly I think the pug had more brains.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonJo on 03 February, 2014, 06:47:37 pm
Also had a run in with pugs - 3 of 'em. Stupid owner had 'em on those extender leads which they had stretched in 3 directions, effectively blocking the path. Gave him an earful at which the dogs went crackers and managed to 'maypole' his legs - result.
First commute this year where there was a glimmer of daylight in the East. Roll on spring.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ruth on 03 February, 2014, 06:52:30 pm
I used to love that bit of the cycle commute - watching the sky get a teeny bit lighter, every day  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 03 February, 2014, 08:47:03 pm
Left work this evening, just after 17:00, with Some Real Daylight just about remaining in the sky :thumbsup:
Pretty parky out there, thobut.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 03 February, 2014, 10:07:19 pm
I rode into a sunrise, then, a few hours later, into a sunset. It was almost enough to cheer me up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 03 February, 2014, 10:31:40 pm
Quote from: fboab on 03 February, 2014, 10:07:19 pm
I rode into a sunrise, then, a few hours later, into a sunset. It was almost enough to cheer me up.
Steady  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 04 February, 2014, 08:54:56 am
Didn't need lights on the way home last night  :thumbsup:

Arrived at work this morning and entered the building about 2 minutes before the heavens opened  :thumbsup:

I guesss that means I'm due a disaster ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 04 February, 2014, 09:02:55 am
I genuinely can't wait until it's not dark when I do it any more, it just makes the whole prospect so much nicer.

I came in the car today as I had an interval session to do, but tomorrow I have 2 hours in the morning and 2 hours in the evening to do. I think the last half hour in the morning will actually be light. Which is better than nothing, spring must be coming- sort of. Evenings will be dark for agesssss yet :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mattc on 04 February, 2014, 09:12:09 am
Calculate your dark/light commuting time:
http://darkmornings.com/

That will give you something to look forward to. Not actual "spring", but similar.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Morrisette on 04 February, 2014, 09:27:23 am
So I hauled the bike out of the house for the first big commute of the year. OH MY GOODNESS I am unfit. Gotta get on with it though, as I have the forms out for the Shaftesbury Spring on March 9th which would appear to be only one month away.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 04 February, 2014, 09:39:16 am
Quite a nice trip in. Less traffic as I left earlier and it does seem to be getting lighter out there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 04 February, 2014, 10:18:28 am
Something called Nick Ferrari opines:

Quote
Q: There have been quite a few cyclist deaths in London. Don't you think it is time to educate them in road safety? Motorists are currently getting all the blame.

Johnson says that new rules are coming into force to ensure that lorries are fitted with safety equipment that reduces the chance of injury to a cyclist.

http://www.theguardian.com/politics/blog/2014/feb/04/boris-johnson-hosts-his-lbc-phone-in-politics-live-blog

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 05 February, 2014, 08:47:36 am
Broke a spoke on the front this morning. Got disc brakes on this bike so the slight buckle isnt a big concern. Brakes squeal like hell in the wet, and think all that resonating vibrating out from there during braking broke it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 05 February, 2014, 08:55:47 am
Quote from: mattc on 04 February, 2014, 09:12:09 am
Calculate your dark/light commuting time:
http://darkmornings.com/

How cheery. Apparently my 'to work' journey is dark for 67.9% of the year. Ugh. (Home is a mere 34.2%)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 05 February, 2014, 09:03:29 am
God that website is depressing!!

Optimistic scenario is 76.2% dark mornings and 75.6% dark evenings. Jeez.

2 hours ride in this morning, only it took longer as my stomach wasn't playing ball and there was 3  :sick: stops  :facepalm:

And there was a wet hurricane.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 05 February, 2014, 09:33:50 am
Closed access off Parliament Square to Victoria Street northbound, for the pavement widening works outside Westminster Abbey, was really not helping this morning. Lots of pedestrians everywhere outside Waterloo, so I walked down to the road and then got on, rather than coasting down the hill. Boris Bike racks were empty at 07:50.

Main traffic lane on Westminster Bridge was solid, probably back to the St Thomas's Hospital lights at least. Thank god for the bus lane. If the roadworks hadn't been on Parliament Square, wouldn't have been much worse than normal.

Birdcage Walk northbound was okay as no commercial vehicles allowed anyway (I usually go down Tothill Street and by St James Park station), but southbound was one long queue of cars and taxis all the way back to Buckingham Palace.

All in all not really that bad, but then I am in leafy SW1, I imagine it might be worse in the City
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 05 February, 2014, 10:03:00 am
I commute from SE23 to E17 in what is a fairly straight northbound line.
Traffic in the 'burbs wasn't any different to what it is usually.
From Westferry Circus however, all the way to Homerton nothing much was moving, lots and lots of pointless hooting, lots of vehicles in the bus lanes which shouldn't be there.
A queue around 100m long of people waiting to gain access to Blackhorse Road tube station.
I was about 5 minutes late.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mattc on 05 February, 2014, 11:07:52 am
Quote from: fboab on 05 February, 2014, 08:55:47 am
Quote from: mattc on 04 February, 2014, 09:12:09 am
Calculate your dark/light commuting time:
http://darkmornings.com/

How cheery. Apparently my 'to work' journey is dark for 67.9% of the year. Ugh. (Home is a mere 34.2%)
Oh dear :(

I thought the idea was it told you how soon you'd be commuting in daylight - you seem to have found a more glass-half-empty option. Sorry!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 05 February, 2014, 12:54:25 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 05 February, 2014, 10:03:00 am

From Westferry Circus however, all the way to Homerton nothing much was moving, lots and lots of pointless hooting, lots of vehicles in the bus lanes which shouldn't be there.

There's a great quote from a cab driver on the FT's web site:

“There’s too much traffic and not enough cars.”

 ??? ??? ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 06 February, 2014, 08:24:43 am
What a weird morning - no motons!

Saw the usual number of motor-vehicles but they were all being driven in a manner to which I'd like to become accustomed. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 February, 2014, 08:29:03 am
Same here (though my commute consisted of just 2km, though of some normally numpty-heavy streets).  There were lots of opportunities for people to do something epically stupid, and they all decided to drive safely instead! :o

In Borough! :o :o

Including taxis! :o :o :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 06 February, 2014, 08:39:17 am
It was indeed a lot quieter than yesterday.  There were far fewer people getting on my train at Richmond (unless there was some sort of restricted District Line service from there today), so it was as crowded as normal, nothing more.

A few more pedestrians exiting at Waterloo but once out on the road, hardly any traffic on Westminster Bridge compared to gridlock yesterday, followed another couple of cyclists through the drop kerb shortcut to get onto Victoria Street (currently closed to traffic at Parliament Square). 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 February, 2014, 08:59:44 am
Quote from: SJSBrompton on 06 February, 2014, 08:39:17 am
There were a lot less people getting on my train   

:o :o :o

Quick!  Ride like the wind so the forum grammar pedants can't catch you!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 06 February, 2014, 09:11:10 am
I nearly rode into a guy running along the twisty path by the 'river' wearing black, without any lights/ hi-vis/ reflectives/ pale clothing. His night vision must be a heck of a lot better than mine, I've run along there myself in the dark, and couldn't see a fecking thing so ended up using my phone as a torch.

Of course, if it hadn't taken me 5 minutes to put the g-damn chain back on I wouldn't have been going that way. 5 minutes is the difference between definitely catching the train and only maybe getting the train and that's if you put on a fair amount of welly. Serves me right for scrounging a lift from International Rescue last night. Carrying the bike in the car always throws the chain off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 06 February, 2014, 09:12:45 am
Traffic was stationary so cars were not a problem. Other cyclists were, mainly because there was so many of them and many did no have a flipping clue!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 06 February, 2014, 10:03:14 am
Crocuses.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 06 February, 2014, 10:07:20 am
Quote from: Jurek on 06 February, 2014, 10:03:14 am
Crocuses.  :)
Strewth.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 06 February, 2014, 10:13:59 am
Quote from: hatler on 06 February, 2014, 10:07:20 am
Quote from: Jurek on 06 February, 2014, 10:03:14 am
Crocuses.  :)
Strewth.

Or, as my kids called them, "Frogs' bottoms".  (Croak arses)  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 06 February, 2014, 12:52:01 pm
I had my first full commute to work for a week. As my normal commuting bike with good lighting is missing a back wheel, currently at the bike shop for a new freehub/pawls. Unfortunately the dynamo bracket failed last year on the Dawes I am using and I have not made a new one so I considered my lighting inadequate for the full sixteen miles.  I have a little flasher that keeps me legal.

Morning commutes are fine. I set off around 7:30am which is late twilight (sunrise 7:43 this morning) So using the train is pointless in the mornings.  When I arrive home it is past civil twilight so decent lighting is needed.  Yesterday I remembered I had an ancient battery light which predated my use of dynamos. So I will commute tonight with a Cateye HL-EL530. First non dynamo commute for around fifteen years.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wascally Weasel on 06 February, 2014, 01:29:32 pm
Crappy, crappy trip home last night.  This was not helped by me having a few drinks after work which totally killed my legs. 

Then I had to ride home into a really annoying headwind, slowed me so much that I missed the cut off time for the 8pm Richmond Park closure (deer cull – “Looks like meat’s back on the menu boys”) so went via the A3 which was rubbish.

Today was a lot better, although today and yesterday there was heavy traffic heading west on the Upper Richmond Road in the morning – wondering if this was increased road traffic to Heathrow?

I did get stopped by a PCSO at Putney just after the District line bridge, I hopped onto the shared use path to make a left turn (legally via the dropped kerb and bit of road just before the lights if you know the junction).  Was told not to cycle on the pavement.  I stopped and had a chat with him, pointed out the shared use sign, what it meant, what the history of development had been on that corner and he seemed appreciative and we parted on good terms, so education can happen if you’re polite and reasonable.

Going to get soaked tonight by the look of it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 06 February, 2014, 03:05:04 pm
Couldn't get the legs to turn and the bike felt draggy, not surprised as it was running 30psi (found out after I got close enough to work and popped into CS).

Managed to lock the rear wheel twice.

Traffic on Notting hill gate was awful, decided to go onto the opposing traffic lane to get through it.

I was exhausted getting into work, not sure how I am going to cope going home, its horrid and wet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 07 February, 2014, 09:07:58 am
Just been on Fix My Street to report the underpass 1/2 mile from my house is flooding again.

I had to pass through the water 3 times this morning. Once on my way to work. The second time when I realised I hadn't picked my bag up  :facepalm: and had to go back for it. The third time on my way to work (again ::-) ).

I'm glad I did go back for my bag - I really needed the dry socks in it. The water's only a couple of inches deep at present, but by 'eck that stuff is wet!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 07 February, 2014, 09:14:24 am
Lots of windy wind and all from the wrong direction!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tom_e on 07 February, 2014, 09:17:05 am
Changed route to avoid a bit of flooding I was warned about.  Then 100m flooded anyway, but only shallow.  Then over the footbridge to go around the well flooded ford.

No Madam, despite all the Vorsprung durch Technik, you car does not apparently function as a boat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 07 February, 2014, 09:59:32 am
Quote from: tom_e on 07 February, 2014, 09:17:05 am
No Madam, despite all the Vorsprung durch Technik, you car does not apparently function as a boat.
:D :facepalm: :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 07 February, 2014, 11:38:58 am
Wahey !  My first full house today since Sep 27th last year.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 10 February, 2014, 09:08:39 am
'Kinell but the Thames is cold this time of year :o

As I got to the bottom of Marlow High Street I could see that Higginson Park looked to be full of water up to the slope from the entrance gates. I crossed the Tierney- Clarke bridge and the downstream side of the weir looked to be a meter or less lower than the upstream side. I then turned left into Quarry Wood Road, passing the road closed signs as I did so. I hit water immediatly and remained riding through water until I got to the climb up the hill. Usually the road emerges from the floods for a couple of hundred meters at about mid point but not this morning. The trick I have found is to stay in the middle of the road where you can see the white lines through the water.

As I progressed I saw blinkenlights approaching and I passed a guy I regularly see riding the other direction. He called a warning about the other end of the road. A timely warning it was too. As I got to Longridge, the water got deeper and I lost sight of the white lines. I looked down and the water level was above the axles of my wheels. My feet were submerged at the bottom of my pedal stroke and shoes were full of very cold water.

Riding into wind or with a cross wind is hard enought but, what I discovered this morning was that flow is worse. The flood water at parts of my voyage were still due to adjacent building lines, walls or embankments. Progress was fairly good but fluid (hydraulic?) resistance was noticeable. At Longridge, the water was flowing quite fast accross the road. It was like riding through treacle  :o

I kept going though and made it to the climb 8) Feet were frozen and got colder. The bike got lighter as I climbed as the water it had taken on board flowed out again. Wore my socks in the shower to start with to rinse them out ;D

Once again I failed to underestimate the power of one wheel drive :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 10 February, 2014, 09:21:54 am
Slow pootle as legs were pretty dead after the weekend's wet and windy audax. At least it wasn't raining!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 10 February, 2014, 10:15:20 am
Quote from: fuzzy on 10 February, 2014, 09:08:39 am
'Kinell but the Thames is cold this time of year :o

As I got to the bottom of Marlow High Street I could see that Higginson Park looked to be full of water up to the slope from the entrance gates. I crossed the Tierney- Clarke bridge and the downstream side of the weir looked to be a meter or less lower than the upstream side. I then turned left into Quarry Wood Road, passing the road closed signs as I did so. I hit water immediatly and remained riding through water until I got to the climb up the hill. Usually the road emerges from the floods for a couple of hundred meters at about mid point but not this morning. The trick I have found is to stay in the middle of the road where you can see the white lines through the water.

As I progressed I saw blinkenlights approaching and I passed a guy I regularly see riding the other direction. He called a warning about the other end of the road. A timely warning it was too. As I got to Longridge, the water got deeper and I lost sight of the white lines. I looked down and the water level was above the axles of my wheels. My feet were submerged at the bottom of my pedal stroke and shoes were full of very cold water.

Riding into wind or with a cross wind is hard enought but, what I discovered this morning was that flow is worse. The flood water at parts of my voyage were still due to adjacent building lines, walls or embankments. Progress was fairly good but fluid (hydraulic?) resistance was noticeable. At Longridge, the water was flowing quite fast accross the road. It was like riding through treacle  :o

I kept going though and made it to the climb 8) Feet were frozen and got colder. The bike got lighter as I climbed as the water it had taken on board flowed out again. Wore my socks in the shower to start with to rinse them out ;D

Once again I failed to underestimate the power of one wheel drive :thumbsup:
Great post !!

Intrepid fuzzy strikes again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 10 February, 2014, 12:07:02 pm
Quote from: fuzzy on 10 February, 2014, 09:08:39 am
'Kinell but the Thames is cold this time of year :o
<snippity>

I kept going though and made it to the climb 8) Feet were frozen and got colder. The bike got lighter as I climbed as the water it had taken on board flowed out again. Wore my socks in the shower to start with to rinse them out ;D

Once again I failed to underestimate the power of one wheel drive :thumbsup:
Bit hardcore that fuzzy. At the risk of teaching grandmother, you will be careful of things lurking in the depths won't you.

And methinks a spot of bearing fettling is in your future.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: danhopgood on 10 February, 2014, 12:26:46 pm
Not one but two large trees blown over onto cycle track, blocking it.  I was glad that didn't happen with anyone underneath at the time.
Met another cyclist who'd gone "over the top", but I didn't fancy that on kiddy back tandem with 4 year old.
Will be interesting to see how the cash strapped council prioritise clearing the tree away - it has been reported. 

This reminded me of a time at an improvement project for a "travellers" site once.   I was present when the engineer supervising the job said to the locals on a Saturday lunchtime - "when  I come in on Monday I don't want to see that tree there".  Sure enough on Monday morning, there it wasn't!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 10 February, 2014, 12:33:12 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 10 February, 2014, 12:07:02 pm
Quote from: fuzzy on 10 February, 2014, 09:08:39 am
'Kinell but the Thames is cold this time of year :o
<snippity>

I kept going though and made it to the climb 8) Feet were frozen and got colder. The bike got lighter as I climbed as the water it had taken on board flowed out again. Wore my socks in the shower to start with to rinse them out ;D

Once again I failed to underestimate the power of one wheel drive :thumbsup:
Bit hardcore that fuzzy. At the risk of teaching grandmother, you will be careful of things lurking in the depths won't you.

And methinks a spot of bearing fettling is in your future.
First thing I do before I enter the water is unclip- just in case, you understand.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 10 February, 2014, 01:57:43 pm
Quote from: Thames Valley Police
We are once again appealing for motorists and residents to take a common sense approach and not to ignore road closures already in place. The water is often deeper than it looks and can be fast moving, so please do not take these unnecessary risks.


I trust Fuzzy will be seeking an alternative route home  :demon:  :demon:  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 10 February, 2014, 02:35:30 pm
Quote from: matthew on 10 February, 2014, 01:57:43 pm
Quote from: Thames Valley Police
We are once again appealing for motorists and residents to take a common sense approach and not to ignore road closures already in place. The water is often deeper than it looks and can be fast moving, so please do not take these unnecessary risks.


I trust Fuzzy will be seeking an alternative route home  :demon:  :demon:  :demon:

My flood free options are thus-

Maidenhead to Pinkneys Green then continue to teh A404 Bisham Roundabout- a roundabout on a motorway effectively. The prospect of negotiating this in the saddle or on foot scares the shit out of me tbh.

Maidenhead to Pinkneys Green then towards Burchetts Green where I take the A4130 towards Henley. At Hurley Golf Club, turn off onto Hurley Lane which emerges onto the A404 dual carriageway. I use this route sometimes but only ride the dualled A404 for about 100 meters before turning off and descending towards Temple. Temple however is at river level so is/ will also be flooded. That leaves me to continue on the A404 until Bisham Roundabout which, from this route would be easy as I would take the first exit to Bisham. The prospect of riding half to three quarters of a mile on the dualled A404 also scares the shit out of me.

I could drive........ or unclip and prepare to swim if it all goes tits up :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 10 February, 2014, 02:49:56 pm
Quote from: fuzzy on 10 February, 2014, 02:35:30 pm
Quote from: matthew on 10 February, 2014, 01:57:43 pm
Quote from: Thames Valley Police
We are once again appealing for motorists and residents to take a common sense approach and not to ignore road closures already in place. The water is often deeper than it looks and can be fast moving, so please do not take these unnecessary risks.


I trust Fuzzy will be seeking an alternative route home  :demon:  :demon:  :demon:

My flood free options are thus-

Maidenhead to Pinkneys Green then continue to teh A404 Bisham Roundabout- a roundabout on a motorway effectively. The prospect of negotiating this in the saddle or on foot scares the shit out of me tbh.

Maidenhead to Pinkneys Green then towards Burchetts Green where I take the A4130 towards Henley. At Hurley Golf Club, turn off onto Hurley Lane which emerges onto the A404 dual carriageway. I use this route sometimes but only ride the dualled A404 for about 100 meters before turning off and descending towards Temple. Temple however is at river level so is/ will also be flooded. That leaves me to continue on the A404 until Bisham Roundabout which, from this route would be easy as I would take the first exit to Bisham. The prospect of riding half to three quarters of a mile on the dualled A404 also scares the shit out of me.

I could drive........ or unclip and prepare to swim if it all goes tits up :-\

Accepted, the A404 bisham roundabout is not a good place to be on a bike in the rush hour. I have ridden it on a Saturday afternoon before going from Bisham to Pinkneys Green but anyone riding the A404 is even dafter.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 10 February, 2014, 03:36:39 pm
I hate riding on the A404 as well (unless its a TT!) but crossing the Bisham roundabout from Pinkneys Green really isn't that bad, I do that all the time.

Temple has sunk, dolphins and sharks on that route.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 10 February, 2014, 03:42:15 pm
Quote from: Lady Cavendish on 10 February, 2014, 03:36:39 pm
I hate riding on the A404 as well (unless its a TT!) but crossing the Bisham roundabout from Pinkneys Green really isn't that bad, I do that all the time.

Temple has sunk, dolphins and sharks on that route.

What sort of time do your cross the roundabout Lady C?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 10 February, 2014, 03:53:03 pm
Oh god it really varies if I'm honest. In the evening the earliest is around 6.30 and the traffic is busy, but I've never had an issue getting over it. I wouldn't ride up to Wycombe or anything, I hate riding down that road but I'm happy to just cross over from Maiders to Bisham or the other way round. Most of the times I ride over it its before 7am or after 7pm, but I don't avoid it if I'm riding at rush hour. (although the 404 always seems to be rush hour)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 10 February, 2014, 04:07:50 pm
I was on my way, slightly late, across town from work (on m'day off) to a meeting and was riding the stoker-less tandem.  A works van from Everybody's Favourite Telco stopped alongside me at the lights.  So close that the driver managed to brush some of the muck off the side panel of said van with my pannier.  Then, after a couple more sets of lights, an entirely different works van from Everybody's Favourite Telco close passed me.  Before turning left into a car park.  Bah.

Then the driver of the car behind me on the approach to the Lord Mayor's Walk/Gillygate lights stayed well back.  All the way to and through the lights and all the way down Gillygate and all the way onto Bootham.  Hurrah!

Then I got scalped.  By a cheerful chap who had been following me through a couple of sets of lights and who shouted 'nice bike!' as he passed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 10 February, 2014, 04:41:07 pm
Quote from: Lady Cavendish on 10 February, 2014, 03:53:03 pm
Oh god it really varies if I'm honest. In the evening the earliest is around 6.30 and the traffic is busy, but I've never had an issue getting over it. I wouldn't ride up to Wycombe or anything, I hate riding down that road but I'm happy to just cross over from Maiders to Bisham or the other way round. Most of the times I ride over it its before 7am or after 7pm, but I don't avoid it if I'm riding at rush hour. (although the 404 always seems to be rush hour)

Well, thats the gentry for you- braver or dafter than us minions  ;)  :-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mr magnolia on 10 February, 2014, 06:14:45 pm
Not today, but thursday(?) last week:

seaside art attack, brought back to mind as it wasnt there today:

<<please await removal of work-based obstacles to posting images...>>
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cycleman on 10 February, 2014, 06:33:50 pm
Me and Gingerice went across the A404 roundabout on our trice a month ago and it caused us little problem . It was a little busy but ok . I have ridden down the A3 between Cobham and Guildford. That can be entertaining  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 10 February, 2014, 06:37:24 pm
A Norwich cyclist was hit by a car that ignored a no entry sign, got a fractured skull. I've had near misses on this road, cars also wildly cut the corner. the cops set up a camera and in one day caught 170 drivers doing the same.

http://www.eveningnews24.co.uk/news/police_catch_more_than_170_drivers_in_norwich_bus_lane_1_3308676
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Karla on 10 February, 2014, 07:42:04 pm
The bike was flying along with a lower gear and a new tyre today, until an unleashed dog decided to make a run at me in a tree-shaded dip on a park cyclepath that concealed some sneaky ice.  Down I went: luckily the dog didn't actually want to attack me or I might have worse than my current bruised knee.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 10 February, 2014, 07:49:20 pm
On the way home tonight I discovered that you can't take the Seascale-Sellafield 'cycle-path' along the dunes in the dark at the same speed on a tourer as you can on a MTB. Hit a soft, sandy hole and ended up splayed out on one of the dunes. :facepalm:

Nothing injured but pride thankfully, and it was part of a refreshing loop through Gosforth and over Irton Pike. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 11 February, 2014, 07:37:25 am
Continuous heavy rain for all of the 8 miles in this morning (decided not to extend).  Thank goodness for my Paramo, and my Altura overtrousers and overshoes. And thank goodness I remembered to pack a spare pare of gloves for this evening's return because I think it will take a few days for the Lidl gloves to dry out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 11 February, 2014, 10:32:48 am
2 visitations. Not sure of cause. Bah.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 11 February, 2014, 06:15:10 pm
The rain on the way in this morning was abso bloody lutely torrential.  A while since I've been caught out like that.
My fault.  I was running 20 - 30 minutes late due to having a problem with my back.
(click to show/hide)
  If I'd got up at normal time, I'd have seen it on the rain radar, left earlier than normal and got in before it got too bad.
After I arrived, the temperate dropped and the heavy rain turned to heavy snow.  Might have been less unpleasant to ride in that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 11 February, 2014, 07:21:07 pm
Oh, eventful ride home too. 
I came the closest to being T-boned since my last ride in an ambulance a few years back.  Two other cars started hooting, but not at me.  At him.  The guy who was now behind him on the main road sat right behind him with his main beam on and just leaned on his horn for ever.  A fellow cyclist? 
Me?  I'm proud to say I just did the Zen thing and left them all behind. :smug:

Next, i'm waiting for a gap in oncoming traffic so I can turn right at traffic lights onto the Brissel Road.  A bloke in a van waiting to turn across me to his right is shouting at me.   ???
It seemed non aggressive, so I listened.
"Oi mate.  Yer back light's fell off"
Initial thought, is this some new version of "Oi mate, yer back wheel's goin' round"?
But I looked back, and sure enough, there it was, flashing away in the middle of the main lane.  And crunch, there was a car going straight over it.  And then another.
Me and the van driver just grinned and shrugged at each other.
So quite lucky that I was now only down to:
Flasher on seat post.
Flasher on back of cap.
Steady Cateye Volt50 laser of deth on the rack. 

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 February, 2014, 07:35:28 pm
Having to stay late at work to sort out some nonsense, I missed out on getting the quiet trains home, and was in the long gap where I'd have to wait a long while at London Bridge even for a train from which I'd have to change to get home.  So I squeezed onto a train to East Croydon, and rode from there along the bike route by the Wandle.

Even then, I met motorised numpties.  As I passed the church, an oncoming car swerved across to my side of the road directly in front of me.  O had flashbacks to August, and the start of the incident when I was assaulted, but it wasn't malicious, just because the driver was a bit busy with his mobile, and didn't see me.  A Maxx-D not enough, evidently ::-)

Actually, I had been mistaken for a car earlier by a lad incautiously crossing the road.  Fortunately, thanks to the dim glimmer from the Maxx-D, I was able to see him.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ruth on 11 February, 2014, 07:38:15 pm
Flashbacks are bastards.

How you doing?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 February, 2014, 07:40:47 pm
I had a nice ride :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ruth on 11 February, 2014, 07:44:05 pm
 :D :D :D

Splendid!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: caerau on 11 February, 2014, 11:00:00 pm
So did I.  Hail, it's my favourite type of weather  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 12 February, 2014, 09:25:25 am
I thought it was going to be horrible today. Heavy rain and 50mph winds. So I planned to take the train. As I set off there it was clear, I think ok perhaps I should ride all the way.  Then a quick squall. I thought, ok here it comes, back to plan A. I go to the station. It has stopped raining. After riding from Bridgend station to work all thought the skies look threatening it is still not rained again and the wind is still moderate. I would of preferred to ride all the way.
   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 12 February, 2014, 09:39:22 am
Well I beat the rain but the wind is already getting strong now and only forecast to get stronger (apparently we are on an amber wind warning). Hard work into it on the way to work.

It should be behind me on the way home so the return ride will either be amazing or scary :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PeteB99 on 12 February, 2014, 11:59:59 am
Quote from: mcshroom on 12 February, 2014, 09:39:22 am
Well I beat the rain but the wind is already getting strong now and only forecast to get stronger (apparently we are on an amber wind warning). Hard work into it on the way to work.

It should be behind me on the way home so the return ride will either be amazing or scary :D

Irish Sea forecast is for Hurricane 12 imminent. I'd start home now if I were you.

Take care
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 12 February, 2014, 01:13:19 pm
Flipping Nora

http://www.meteox.co.uk/h.aspx?r=&jaar=-3&soort=loop1uur
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: maxcherry on 12 February, 2014, 03:45:37 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 12 February, 2014, 01:13:19 pm
Flipping Nora

http://www.meteox.co.uk/h.aspx?r=&jaar=-3&soort=loop1uur


Good grief! Are we all going to evolve blow holes and gills :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 12 February, 2014, 05:50:18 pm
Quote from: PeteB99 on 12 February, 2014, 11:59:59 am
Quote from: mcshroom on 12 February, 2014, 09:39:22 am
Well I beat the rain but the wind is already getting strong now and only forecast to get stronger (apparently we are on an amber wind warning). Hard work into it on the way to work.

It should be behind me on the way home so the return ride will either be amazing or scary :D

Irish Sea forecast is for Hurricane 12 imminent. I'd start home now if I were you.

Take care

Damn, hit the eye of the storm - not much wind at all :(;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 12 February, 2014, 07:41:28 pm
Not too bad for me tonight  :)

Fortunately it was mostly a tailwind with only a couple of sh#t ya pants moments  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 12 February, 2014, 07:47:33 pm
no headwind on the way out, but what a tailwind on the way back! :o i was coasting at 40kph with no input required - wheeeee!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 12 February, 2014, 08:26:17 pm
The last four miles or so, between the Greenwich foot tunnel and home, were fcking hard work!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 12 February, 2014, 08:26:57 pm
Quote from: zigzag on 12 February, 2014, 07:47:33 pm
no headwind on the way out, but what a tailwind on the way back! :o i was coasting at 40kph with no input required - wheeeee!
:-)
That sounds like 'situation normal' for you I thought.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil W on 12 February, 2014, 09:21:09 pm
Headwind all the way home , good day to be alive :-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 13 February, 2014, 08:55:58 am
Nice trip in. A little wind and in the right direction as well as some sunshine. Enjoyed that!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 13 February, 2014, 09:06:01 am
Day off today, but yesterday's commute home, going the long way, was enhanced by being accompanied by a Ban Owl as I whizzed along the lane.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 13 February, 2014, 09:41:32 am
Quote from: Tim Hall on 13 February, 2014, 09:06:01 am
Day off today, but yesterday's commute home, going the long way, was enhanced by being accompanied by a Ban Owl as I whizzed along the lane.

Is that the P.E.D. taking version?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 13 February, 2014, 12:13:20 pm
Last night's commute- probably the most frightening experience I've ever had on a bike.

Kings Rd, narrowly avoided several sheets of flying perspex as a carport disintegrated. Kingsway - got pushed across both lanes of the dual carriageway. 12 miles took nearly 90 mins  :o On the plus side managed a seriously impressive trackstand due to not being able to make it go forwards  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 13 February, 2014, 12:39:28 pm
Another 13miles of headwind riding in but it was a beaut of a morning & hopefully it'll be a nice tailwind on the way home  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 13 February, 2014, 01:15:18 pm
As I posted above I decided to use the train for my commute until I get my commuting bike back with the good luxos light.  The ancient battery light I have on green bike is just too weak since my expectations have grown.   

Yesterday evening I was glad I was not riding all the way.  The wind was a strong cross wind so a gust could have caused me to swerve into the path of a car running at dual carriage way speeds.  Riding to the station was very hard until I made a right turn into a narrow street so was sheltered a little.  As I entered the station I thought I saw the train I intended to catch depart but that was a late earlier train.  The train I hoped to catch was also delayed. The Manchester Piccadilly train was announced as 40 minutes late.  I waited for the backup train. This train heading to Cheltenham Spa turned up fifteen minutes late.  At Cardiff I switched to a Merthyr train which was 10 minutes late but that was to my advantage.  I cycled home from Radyr station and arrived home just after 7pm.  Not that bad. A train home commute only achieves 6:40pm after the waiting around for a train I am allowed to get on.

This morning as always I see the Milford Haven train disappear as I arrive on platform 4. The Swansea train turns up 25 minutes late so arrive at work 5 minutes later instead of 20 minutes early as I expected.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mr magnolia on 13 February, 2014, 06:03:30 pm
Quote from: mr magnolia on 10 February, 2014, 06:14:45 pm
Not today, but thursday(?) last week:

seaside art attack, brought back to mind as it wasnt there today:

<<please await removal of work-based obstacles to posting images...>>

AHA!

portobello prom:

(http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c204/mrmagnolia/Snapbucket/th_1C0E279A-orig_zpscdfa5903.jpg) (http://s28.photobucket.com/user/mrmagnolia/media/Snapbucket/1C0E279A-orig_zpscdfa5903.jpg.html)

(http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c204/mrmagnolia/Snapbucket/th_2426D2B2-orig_zps157cdc7f.jpg) (http://s28.photobucket.com/user/mrmagnolia/media/Snapbucket/2426D2B2-orig_zps157cdc7f.jpg.html)

(http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c204/mrmagnolia/Snapbucket/th_F489CD8E-orig_zpsa2843e18.jpg) (http://s28.photobucket.com/user/mrmagnolia/media/Snapbucket/F489CD8E-orig_zpsa2843e18.jpg.html)

All gone now - ravaged by dogs and seagulls no doubt.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 14 February, 2014, 08:47:02 am
Nice trip in but felt like the calm before the storm...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 14 February, 2014, 08:54:00 am
Quote from: menthel on 14 February, 2014, 08:47:02 am
Nice trip in but felt like the calm before the storm...

+1, the wind was picking up as I rode in.

Going to be fun tonight. I hope I dont have any more punctures
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 14 February, 2014, 04:11:54 pm
Drivers who ignored that no entry sign I mentioned have been fined £18,000:

http://www.mustardtv.co.uk/browse/brazen-the-norwich-bus-lane-rat-runners/
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 14 February, 2014, 05:41:30 pm
Quote from: velosam on 14 February, 2014, 08:54:00 am
Quote from: menthel on 14 February, 2014, 08:47:02 am
Nice trip in but felt like the calm before the storm...

+1, the wind was picking up as I rode in.

Going to be fun tonight. I hope I dont have any more punctures

I think the weather has proved me right. Bloody miserable trip home with wind, rain and bonus swirly gusts.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 14 February, 2014, 06:02:15 pm
Yes, that was nasty and hard work.  Oh well, it's Friday night, so I haven't gone straight home.  I've stopped off at my Home from Home.   :D
And I ain't leaving until it stops raining
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 14 February, 2014, 07:20:10 pm
That was blowtastic.
Inna not very nice way.
I think after that, I could probably clench for England.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 14 February, 2014, 08:05:13 pm
Quote from: Basil on 14 February, 2014, 06:02:15 pm
Yes, that was nasty and hard work.  Oh well, it's Friday night, so I haven't gone straight home.  I've stopped off at my Home from Home.   :D
And I ain't leaving until it stops raining

So much for ever leaving that pub...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 14 February, 2014, 08:40:27 pm
help
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bowks on 15 February, 2014, 06:31:15 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 14 February, 2014, 04:11:54 pm
Drivers who ignored that no entry sign I mentioned have been fined £18,000:

http://www.mustardtv.co.uk/browse/brazen-the-norwich-bus-lane-rat-runners/
I don't think that's what the article said is it? The policeman said that they'd set letters out and from the context I'd thought he meant warning letters. All the journo said was that given that many letters at £100 each the fine would be £18000 if they were to prosecute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 16 February, 2014, 08:44:50 am
Actually mine was not so bad. It didnt rain till the last 7 miles or so and it was so warm I had to strip down which was annoying. The wind, for once, seemed in the right direction.
I have been trying to slow down and kept reminding myself to have a cadence that replicates a fast walk.

Am going in tomorrow but it looks like light rain (hopefully)

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 17 February, 2014, 09:25:04 pm
Two good turns on the way home today.  I found a wallet in the road and managed to reconcile it with its owner.  And I lent my pump to a chap with a slow puncture, without a pump of his own.  I think that's about evens following  the gift of a spare tube last autumn when I punctured and the valve on my spare was faulty.

And it rained inbound and outbound again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 18 February, 2014, 08:12:47 am
Another commute another puncture, I am now averaging 1 every ride practically and am actually taking the road to avoid this sort of thing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 18 February, 2014, 09:03:00 am
I love half term! Empty roads and a newly fettled bike made the ride in quite enjoyable.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 18 February, 2014, 10:36:18 am
Tired.  :(
Being overtaken by people who obviously weren't tired.  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Vince on 18 February, 2014, 11:01:32 am
I decided that it was ironic to be passed by a Ministry of Justice van doing 20kph over the speed limit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mustgettaller on 18 February, 2014, 12:03:25 pm
Decided on the 12 mile hilly (ish) route in today. Going fine until at the bottom of the hill past Stansted House, the rear mech cable snapped. A quick bit of fettling to tidy things up and re-index properly on the smallest cog against the adjuster, and then had to continue in 3-speed mode.

Rather pleased with my performance up the hills - but I still won't be getting a fixie or single-speed!

Luckily there's a Halfords round the corner from work, so new cable purchased, ready to be fitted over lunch.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 18 February, 2014, 12:40:11 pm
I did a silly commute this morning. I still had a day left on my weekly train ticket so I decided to see if I could catch the Milford Haven train from Cardiff. One way to do this would be  to set off from home at 6:50 and catch the 7:05 train to Cardiiff and wait 25 minutes for the westward heading train. That would be no fun. So I set off at 7:05 from home and rode along the Taff Trail to Cardiff station. I arrived at 7:30 so I waited twenty minutes get on the train get off the train an arrive at work 8:30 thirty minutes early as expected.  As I said a silly commute I left the house thirty minutes earlier so I could catch the train I missed by 1 minute all last week but if I had simply rode all the way starting at that time I would also arrive at 8:30.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 18 February, 2014, 07:37:42 pm
I had my first climb up Cold Fell for the year on my way home tonight. I'm sure it's grown over the winter! :-[

Lovely Orange-Pink effect of the sunset through the clouds on the way back down.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: arry_b on 18 February, 2014, 10:55:06 pm
A pair of flint punctures, one at each end. Only one spare tube on board, but the least worse damaged tube let me wobble on at 20psi.

At least it wasn't raining today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 19 February, 2014, 09:35:56 am
Since negotiating the Thames last Monday morning and seeing the levels rise afterwards, I bottled it for the rest of the week and used the car. Last night was the first ride for a week. Condition deserts at a rapid rate doesn't it?

This mornings ride was almost as hard but was alleviated by the sight of a pair of Crested Grebe swimming in the pasture adjacent to the road :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 19 February, 2014, 09:38:40 am
Couple hours commute this morning. No wind, no rain?! What's going on?! It was lovely.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 19 February, 2014, 09:47:35 am
I do like skool holidays. Leaving home around 7.15 the traffic can be quite horrible. On Monday I saw 3 cars and a motorbike. On Tuesday I saw 2 cars, a van and a motorbike. Today I saw 2 cars and a motorbike. That was it. The afternoons have been similar. Marvellous. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 19 February, 2014, 12:34:10 pm
I am pleased to say I am back on my standard commute.  Hopefully I will not use the train again until next December when I like to avoid Christmas party drunk drivers.

Last night I did my final train journey to Cardiff.  I got off at Cardiff and rode up the Taff Trail.  This starts of very annoying at first as it is packed with walkers and runners and slow cyclists. I would ride through the park on the other side of the river but the gates are locked at dusk. On Monday I crossed the Millennium bridge into the park and when I got to Blackweir the gate was locked.  I climbed over the step at the side. Further along in Haley park the route was blocked by a fallen tree. So last night I stayed on the left bank until Blackweir and crossed the no longer springy bridge and onto the Gabalfa cycle path then on the road back to Forest Farm and a tiny bot of Taff trail to Radyr station.

This morning was a nice ride along my usual roads. The usual hold ups at schools. I am looking forward to half term next week.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 19 February, 2014, 03:29:48 pm
London half term is on now.  Trust me - I work by Buckingham Palace and I can hear English accents for a change (plus a few Eastern bloc ones that could actually be local) - but not the usual invasion of hyperactive Italians in large groups blocking the pavement everywhere.

A tour group I saw on Monday on my return train, who I suspect were staying at the cheapy St Giles Hotel near Heathrow (conveniently opposite my home station which is the last one in the Oyster Zones) - all had matching hi vis yellow beanies.  Makes a change from matching rucksacks I suppose.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 21 February, 2014, 08:37:15 am
What a beautiful morning. Blue sky, sunshine, birdies singing, ships baa-ing. A bit fresh round the knees, mind.

I got overtaken (properly) by one whole car and only saw three cars and a van going the other way. I am sooo looking forward to Monday when the schools reopen.(NOT)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 21 February, 2014, 09:14:48 am
^^^ +1

The correct answer to a cheery "Good Morning" on such a day is not a stoney faced silence[1], you miserable feck.

[1] OK, you and sooty had just been pwned going uphill by an owd beardy on 69" SS clunker with a Carradice fulla stuff, and you'd then proved you couldn't even wheelsuck at 20Kp/h, but that's no reason to sulk :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 21 February, 2014, 10:40:32 am
Blossom  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 February, 2014, 10:51:36 am
Yes, flower? ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 21 February, 2014, 11:20:51 am
Sun and cycle in with wife, very nice. Had a fairy visitation but managed to fix it quite easily.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 21 February, 2014, 12:18:20 pm
Me.

It goes like this:

Leave house at 08:50. Arrive station (Yatton) 09.31, buy ticket, look for train (09:40). Train does not exist. Next train is 09:56, but is stopping service and will make me late with the ticket I have. Get food and coffee from station cafe, go to ticket office, get refund on ticket to Temple Meads and get new ticket to Filton Abbey Wood. Am told train is quite full. Train arrives, with one carriage, no chance of boarding with a bike. At this point it becomes clear that trying to use the train was a mistake, cycling the whole way would have been quicker. Next train is 10:23, and they assure me it will have multiple carriages. Another cyclist arrives and he nearly doesn't get on, but when he points out that he has connections, she relents. I'm expecting to arrive at work at 11.10 or so now, about 40 minutes late. Train makes its way to Temple Meads, getting fuller, and mostly empties there. There it sits. And sits. No information is provided. The departure board continually shows an ETD about 2 minutes in the past. Then 'delayed'. Then back to 2 minutes in the past. Eventually someone appears and tells us the train is waiting for carriages to join. I hope the irony of this isn't lost on the reader. The delay continues. Then we're told that if we are going to intermediate stations (raises hand) the train will now not be stopping at any of them due to the delay. There is another train expected at 11.21. Quick mental calculation (it's now 11.07) tells me that cycling the rest of the way to work will be quicker, and I make my escape. I arrive at work at 11.33.

This is a new record for my commute. For comparison:

Motorbike 41->47 minutes.
Car 50-80 minutes (mostly under 60).
Cycling 90-105 minutes, typically 95.
Bike + train 95-165 minutes.

I only really chose to use the train because I'm recovering from a cold and haven't had that many miles this year. Not a good move.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 21 February, 2014, 12:44:47 pm
Sorry that your train commute did not work.

If I wanted use the train tonight it would be impossible.  The Wales rugby match will pack the trains with people. Bridgend station will be full of people and hardly any could get on let alone a bike.  Actually there is a long way around train that runs along the coast. This leaves from another platform and the rugby supporters do not know that will get them there just in time.  I could get on this train. In November I forgot the Autumn international was on and feeling very tired I went to the station bought a ticket then realised my mistake.  It was clear that not many people could get on the Manchester train and I expected the Cheltenham train would be just as bad. So I moved on to the other platform and got on the slow train around the vale.  This was not too busy as it left Bridgend. The first stop was Llantwit Major and the train was full of Standing people. I felt a little mean taking space with my bike. More people pushed on at the other stops until we got to Barry.  There is a frequent commuter service from Barry so there was no further crush. At Cardiff the train emptied and I travelled on  in a much quieter train.

Tonight I will accept the sogginess and ride home in the usual way. The have dinner and watch the rugby while drinking Delirum Tremens. Life is good.

   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 21 February, 2014, 12:55:15 pm
Your real problem is arriving at the station 09:31.

My trains run hourly

05:31 Just me and the guard, 2 coaches. I've caught this train twice. It's total luxury, I love it.
06:21 Me, 5 other people, 1 other bike (in summer), 2 coaches
07:23 Me, 80 other people, 3 bikes, 1 coach, standing room only, fight your bike on, get tutted all the way (and deserve it, tbh)
08:24 I'm late for work who even leaves this late? I'm guessing 300 people trying to get to Ipswich for 9
09:23 wtf?  I've been at work for yonks and have even started doing some work.

Just get up in the morning. It adds hours to your day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 21 February, 2014, 01:46:59 pm
I've never understood the whole "one coach" concept. That's a fucking bus, right? On rails.

How much more does it cost to run a train with 2 or even 4 coaches FFS?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 21 February, 2014, 01:56:12 pm
Quote from: fboab on 21 February, 2014, 12:55:15 pm
Just get up in the morning. It adds hours to your day.

It means I have to suffer the evening rush hour instead.





Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 21 February, 2014, 02:10:05 pm
Quote from: Chris S on 21 February, 2014, 01:46:59 pm
I've never understood the whole "one coach" concept. That's a fucking bus, right? On rails.

How much more does it cost to run a train with 2 or even 4 coaches FFS?
It's not the running, surely, it's the commisioning.
That 1 coach (The someone not Ralph Fiennes, trainspotting fans) dates from about AD79.

Quote from: simonp on 21 February, 2014, 01:56:12 pm
Quote from: fboab on 21 February, 2014, 12:55:15 pm
Just get up in the morning. It adds hours to your day.
It means I have to suffer the evening rush hour instead.
I'm home before that shit hits the fan roads. :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 21 February, 2014, 02:17:10 pm
Quote from: fboab on 21 February, 2014, 02:10:05 pm
Quote from: Chris S on 21 February, 2014, 01:46:59 pm
I've never understood the whole "one coach" concept. That's a fucking bus, right? On rails.

How much more does it cost to run a train with 2 or even 4 coaches FFS?
It's not the running, surely, it's the commisioning.
That 1 coach (The someone not Ralph Fiennes, trainspotting fans) dates from about AD79.
Google suggest someone not Ralph could be Gerry. Responsible for pushing the purchase of Deltics through and one time mayor of Adleburgh.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 21 February, 2014, 02:31:16 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 21 February, 2014, 02:17:10 pm

Google suggest someone not Ralph could be Gerry. Responsible for pushing the purchase of Deltics through and one time mayor of Adleburgh.


I think he's Gerard on the train.  :thumbsup:
This train's so old it's probably been to Aldeburgh (http://www.disused-stations.org.uk/a/aldeburgh/).

Fecking Hell t'internet's grand, innit?
Here he is, the handsome devil
(http://uktrainpics.co.uk/images/dunit408.JPG)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Vince on 21 February, 2014, 03:27:25 pm
Quote from: Chris S on 21 February, 2014, 01:46:59 pm
I've never understood the whole "one coach" concept. That's a fucking bus, right? On rails.

How much more does it cost to run a train with 2 or even 4 coaches FFS?

Nah This (http://www.flickr.com/photos/georgeupstairs/3270917267/) is a bus on rails
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 21 February, 2014, 06:16:35 pm
Quote from: simonp on 21 February, 2014, 01:56:12 pm
Quote from: fboab on 21 February, 2014, 12:55:15 pm
Just get up in the morning. It adds hours to your day.

It means I have to suffer the evening rush hour instead.

And it doesn't add any hours to your day, because then you would have to go to bed early.
No one in this house goes to bed early, we are owls not larks  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 21 February, 2014, 06:37:04 pm
Did you just argue that night was day?

;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimC on 21 February, 2014, 06:58:22 pm
Quote from: fboab on 21 February, 2014, 02:31:16 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 21 February, 2014, 02:17:10 pm

Google suggest someone not Ralph could be Gerry. Responsible for pushing the purchase of Deltics through and one time mayor of Adleburgh.


I think he's Gerard on the train.  :thumbsup:
This train's so old it's probably been to Aldeburgh (http://www.disused-stations.org.uk/a/aldeburgh/).

Fecking Hell t'internet's grand, innit?
Here he is, the handsome devil
(http://uktrainpics.co.uk/images/dunit408.JPG)

Oi, you nicked that from our line at Sudbury! We haz the rights to all the Class 153s left alive, we does.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 21 February, 2014, 07:06:59 pm
First lambs of the year.  Poulton Fields.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 21 February, 2014, 07:13:33 pm
Quote from: fboab on 21 February, 2014, 06:37:04 pm
Did you just argue that night was day?

;)

I work nights  'day' is whenever I happen to be awake  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 21 February, 2014, 07:16:27 pm
Quote from: TimC on 21 February, 2014, 06:58:22 pm
Quote from: fboab on 21 February, 2014, 02:31:16 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 21 February, 2014, 02:17:10 pm

Google suggest someone not Ralph could be Gerry. Responsible for pushing the purchase of Deltics through and one time mayor of Adleburgh.


I think he's Gerard on the train.  :thumbsup:
This train's so old it's probably been to Aldeburgh (http://www.disused-stations.org.uk/a/aldeburgh/).

Fecking Hell t'internet's grand, innit?
Here he is, the handsome devil
(http://uktrainpics.co.uk/images/dunit408.JPG)

Oi, you nicked that from our line at Sudbury! We haz the rights to all the Class 153s left alive, we does.
We have at least three up here often two of them joined together (one has been subbed back into working with a class 150 as a 2 carriage to replace a crashed unit)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 21 February, 2014, 09:33:51 pm
Quote from: fboab on 21 February, 2014, 12:55:15 pm
Just get up in the morning. It adds hours to your day.

Yes, but it adds hours of *morning* to your day.  Who wants that?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 21 February, 2014, 09:50:59 pm
Me. All you other feckers are out on the trains, roads, every fecking where in the evenings.
Mornings I actually get to be on my own. I get a seat on the train, I don't get wankers driving at me and I don't get idiots on bikes with moronic lights blinding me. It's so good sometimes I get up even earlier <for fun>.
It's like late nights, but without the drunks and kebabs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 21 February, 2014, 09:53:54 pm
Quote from: fboab on 21 February, 2014, 09:50:59 pm
Me. All you other feckers are out on the trains, roads, every fecking where in the evenings.
Mornings I actually get to be on my own. I get a seat on the train, I don't get wankers driving at me and I don't get idiots on bikes with moronic lights blinding me. It's so good sometimes I get up even earlier <for fun>.
It's like late nights, but without the drunks and kebabs.
*Knows where she is coming from*
I've done, and will doubtless continue to do the "unnecessarily early" getting-up thing.
Becauth I'm worth it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 21 February, 2014, 10:28:52 pm
You can keep it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 21 February, 2014, 10:32:37 pm
Eh?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 21 February, 2014, 10:37:25 pm
Quote from: LittleWheelsandBig on 21 February, 2014, 10:28:52 pm
You can keep it.

  ;D ;D ;D

I agree.
The time we choose to get up in the morning (when we have a choice) is like underwear. I will pick my own thanks  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jsabine on 22 February, 2014, 02:05:44 am
Quote from: Feline on 21 February, 2014, 10:37:25 pm
Quote from: LittleWheelsandBig on 21 February, 2014, 10:28:52 pm
You can keep it.

  ;D ;D ;D

I agree.
The time we choose to get up in the morning (when we have a choice) is like underwear. I will pick my own thanks  ;D

What's more, morning can be defined to last as long as you want. For me, any time before I've had lunch is morning. (And lunch is the meal that comes between morning and afternoon.) If you prefer to have your evening meal between 9 & 11pm, this adds valuable flexibility to the day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tom_e on 22 February, 2014, 07:10:51 am
Quote from: fboab on 21 February, 2014, 09:50:59 pm
Me. All you other feckers are out on the trains, roads, every fecking where in the evenings.
Mornings I actually get to be on my own. I get a seat on the train, I don't get wankers driving at me and I don't get idiots on bikes with moronic lights blinding me. It's so good sometimes I get up even earlier <for fun>.
It's like late nights, but without the drunks and kebabs.

+1
Summer mornings are my pick; it looks like daytime, yet it's utterly deserted.  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 24 February, 2014, 09:16:16 am
Quote from: fboab on 21 February, 2014, 09:50:59 pm
Mornings I actually get to be on my own. I get a seat on the train, I don't get wankers driving at me and I don't get idiots on bikes with moronic lights blinding me. It's so good sometimes I get up even earlier <for fun>.
It's like late nights, but without the drunks and kebabs.
Aye, I'm with you on this one. I love the peace and cool of an early morning.

Speaking of which. I rode to work this morning, for the first time in 6 weeks (since commencing the house move). Woops, I've lost a little bit of fitness. What little bit I had.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 24 February, 2014, 09:24:33 am
I quite like early mornings.  I'm opening up the surgery for 0800 much of the time right now, so my train gets in at 0700.  It's not overcrowded - even London Bridge station is tolerable in these conditions.  And I get a walk down through the back streets of Southwark with my cameras.  Even better when I'm able to ride the folder down through those back streets.

And even better than that will be when I can ride on the roads all the way without hordes of idiotic motorists.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 24 February, 2014, 09:29:21 am
Back to todays commute... ;)

Went the long way round (via a lap of Richmond Park and then thru Putney etc to Victoria) and had a wonderful time! Best to take advantage of the weather.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Reg.T on 24 February, 2014, 12:37:00 pm
Grrr. First commute after a week off, and I get a moton who takes exception to my taking primary while I rode past an exit on a DC, so does an unsafe overtake and loads of tooting when I re-pass. Apparently I shouldn't be on the road because other traffic was having to maneuver past me. (Yes, I learned that when I stopped to have a word while maneuvering past a long queue with him in it  :hand:)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 24 February, 2014, 12:43:49 pm
As if by magic there were fewer cars this morning. Its half term around here so its snag free commuting time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 24 February, 2014, 11:07:12 pm
Strange ride home. I had fettled the rear wheel at the weekend so it had bearings and axle according to the manufacturer's specifications. It seemed like it was motor powered tonight. Flew round the bend, and on up the hill. Felt like all the sluggishness had just disappeared. No complaints from the back, or the legs. Just felt really good again.

And I haven't woken up yet so it might actually have been real.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 25 February, 2014, 08:55:26 am
Wet bum as had to ride in on Italia without mudguards as the 00 is in the work cycle parking without tyres as they have been binned. Gatorskins lasted ~1500km. Front had split in sidewall thru which a little aneurysm of tube had come out and then punctured. Back was basically wrecked- tyre repunctured thru old hole but was also pitted, abraided and had multiple scrapes/lacerations of a couple of mm deep and about 10-15cm long.

Still the Italia rides beautifully and I get a chance to try out some new tyres on the 00. Gone rubino pro to se how they do.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 February, 2014, 05:25:19 pm
I did a train/bike commute. 

I don't save anything by doing that, sadly, but I'm hoping to get my fitness back up.

I took a train to East Croydon, and rode back from there.  Total of 11km and a bit for the day (0.25x my normal commute).  Not sure I can manage any more on the flat bars of the folder, but it was nice to ride.

I met a woman on the train who was taking her bike out to Norwood Junction to ride to her new home.  She was asking about bike/train options for working in the city, since she's always lived close in.  I was helping her with the idea of bike commuting (especially since I noted she had a childseat - she has to drop her daughter off at nursery before going in, and full-sized bikes are banned for commuter trains).  I know virtually nothing about routes from Beckenham/Norwood into London, but I imagine there are perfectly rideable ways to do it.  I hope she manages it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 25 February, 2014, 06:52:07 pm
Spin home on the Italia. Still amazes me how smooth the ride is and yet how eager the bike feels. Bloody love it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 25 February, 2014, 08:38:23 pm
Quote from: clarion on 25 February, 2014, 05:25:19 pm
I did a train/bike commute. 

I don't save anything by doing that, sadly, but I'm hoping to get my fitness back up.

I took a train to East Croydon, and rode back from there.  Total of 11km and a bit for the day (0.25x my normal commute).  Not sure I can manage any more on the flat bars of the folder, but it was nice to ride.

I met a woman on the train who was taking her bike out to Norwood Junction to ride to her new home.  She was asking about bike/train options for working in the city, since she's always lived close in.  I was helping her with the idea of bike commuting (especially since I noted she had a childseat - she has to drop her daughter off at nursery before going in, and full-sized bikes are banned for commuter trains).  I know virtually nothing about routes from Beckenham/Norwood into London, but I imagine there are perfectly rideable ways to do it.  I hope she manages it.

It's not a bad ride from Norwood Malfunction to the City - about an hour at slow speed, 45 minutes if you want to push it, routes 22 and 23 of the old, mysterious LCN network just about cover it. LCN 22 goes up the mostly quiet back streets and avoids Mount Crystal Palace, via Sydenham, Forest Hill, Honor Oak, and then clips Brockley and down by Peckham Rye. I used to commute from just north of there before I moved. Maybe she bought my house.

I've been enjoying the closed A22 this week. I usually take the back route since it's not normally the most pleasant of roads to cycle on, but with the flooding it's closed other than for access, but I've been bimbling along it on my Brompton. To be honest, they should just get rid of traffic everywhere. It's rather splendid to have an A road virtually to myself.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 February, 2014, 08:41:43 pm
I wish I'd had you there to explain.  Or that I'd got her contact details, but that might have seemed a bit forward.

I was a bit worried that I would be condemning her to College Road after work every night. :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 26 February, 2014, 09:49:19 am
I was chilly but dry.

The floodwaters are really receeding around Longridge but, as I rod Quarry Wood Road towards the ascent, the raised A404 dual carriageway was acting as a perfect mist barrier. From perfectly clear to thickish fog caused by the thermal differnece beteween the chill air and the wet pasture then climbing out was nice. The descent down the other side towards the rising sun was just as pleasant.

Only slightly spoiled by the Range Rover driver who thinks 6" is plenty of passing room. I was so chilled out that I could barely manage a  ::-) in response.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 26 February, 2014, 01:18:50 pm
I mostly forget about the details of my commute.  It is so regular that as I ride along I only occasionally register where I am unless there is some event to attract my attention. I often find myself past a steep climb without noticing even when I start off thinking I am tired that hill will be hard today I just unconsciously go up it and realise a mile down the road that I am past it.

So last night I am climbing a false flat on the Llantrisant road (A4119) )near Star Lane when I bike passes me. I jokingly thought to myself I will catch him on the big hill from Rhydlafar. As I came down the hill I noticed he had opened quite a gap so I was not going to try and catch him.  Orange bike is single speed and is ridden by a slightly overweight, slightly unfit 52 year old. So it goes up hill at the speed it goes.  There is no faster and if I hope to keep my knees no slower.   So I plod on at my usual pace. To my surprise the gap between me and the other bike had closed. As I approached the top of the steeper section I found myself magnetically attracted to his mudguard.  To my annoyance he was going very slowly he can do that with gears but I find it very uncomfortable to ride that slowly. The road was briefly busy and assumed as we got on the false flat section he would zoom away but he stayed in that easy gear. I give up following and I admit to myself there is faster if I try so I zoom off over the top and down to lower part of Pant Tawel (golf course) lane  Radyr  lane and continue home.  How am I to maintain my reputation as the slowest commuter on my route if faster cyclists go up hill slower?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 26 February, 2014, 04:23:31 pm
Minor detour between sites today as the head was out on the playground as I retrieved the tandem and wheeled it to the gate.  She joked about having a go.  I pointed out that would be silly.  Not allowed to ride bikes on the playground.  'Specially not during hockey lessons. 

So we took the tandem out onto the road, put the stoker seat up a fair bit, and I piloted an actual growed up (who was wearing very impressive heels at the time) for the first time, round the block.

Got a round of applause from most of the infants when we got back too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 February, 2014, 05:19:13 pm
Yay!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 26 February, 2014, 07:23:06 pm
Nice tandem move! Kids just love bikes- the attention me and the boy get at afterschool club when we go in on the trailer is hilarious!

Nice pootle home today- took it easy as I had to reinstall the cheese based tyres that came with the bike whilst I wait for the new ones to replace my knackered gatorskins!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: zigzag on 26 February, 2014, 07:43:52 pm
i noticed that it was not dark anymore when i left the office at 5:30ish pm! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 26 February, 2014, 09:44:47 pm
I know! Sunshine and woodpeckers today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil W on 26 February, 2014, 10:14:05 pm
Felt like Spring tonight thought about wearing shorts and watched a lovely sunset on commute home
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 27 February, 2014, 09:03:48 am
Rain and hellish traffic. Luckily the rain stopped. The traffic didn't!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 27 February, 2014, 09:06:53 am
The 18 month old emergency tyre boot finally gave up the ghost on the way in yesterday resulting in a slow puncture. Slow enough that a pre ride home blast from the air line was sufficient to get me there. Then a quick trip to the shop and a new tyre and tube purchased and fitted.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 27 February, 2014, 09:48:35 am
Despite the forecast of doom, it was barely raining which meant I was really overdressed.

On the plus side I rode with someone much quicker than me. He slowed a bit as well, but pushing hard my time only improved by 6minutes and about 1mph.   However, despite the poor stats the ride was fun as I had to push a lot more.

Also I can see how riding something nimble and light is more fun although it may not result in any tangible benefit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 27 February, 2014, 10:47:28 am
I followed a fellow commuter today on a pretty average bike (Pinnacle Arkose of some description), but adorned with at least £600-worth of cameras (front facing GoPro, helmet-mounted GoPro, rear facing Contour) and several hundred pounds-worth of Exposure lights (helmet mounted, bar-mounted, twin rear lights).

I can't help thinking I'd have rather put the extra cash into a better bike and wonder what level of paranoia prompts people to festoon their bikes with literally hundreds and hundreds of pounds of stuff like this.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 27 February, 2014, 01:34:15 pm
Quote from: alexb on 27 February, 2014, 10:47:28 am
I followed a fellow commuter today on a pretty average bike (Pinnacle Arkose of some description), but adorned with at least £600-worth of cameras (front facing GoPro, helmet-mounted GoPro, rear facing Contour) and several hundred pounds-worth of Exposure lights (helmet mounted, bar-mounted, twin rear lights).

I can't help thinking I'd have rather put the extra cash into a better bike and wonder what level of paranoia prompts people to festoon their bikes with literally hundreds and hundreds of pounds of stuff like this.

If he takes everything on and off after every ride that would be a huge faff.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 27 February, 2014, 03:16:34 pm
Quote from: velosam on 27 February, 2014, 01:34:15 pm
Quote from: alexb on 27 February, 2014, 10:47:28 am
I followed a fellow commuter today on a pretty average bike (Pinnacle Arkose of some description), but adorned with at least £600-worth of cameras (front facing GoPro, helmet-mounted GoPro, rear facing Contour) and several hundred pounds-worth of Exposure lights (helmet mounted, bar-mounted, twin rear lights).

I can't help thinking I'd have rather put the extra cash into a better bike and wonder what level of paranoia prompts people to festoon their bikes with literally hundreds and hundreds of pounds of stuff like this.

If he takes everything on and off after every ride that would be a huge faff.

That was my thought. Plus you can't leave your bike anywhere or go do anything on the way to work or on your way home because of all the stuff you have to remove. Plus - why??? One camera, yep. I get that. I sort of get a rear facing camera as well, but three cameras and mega lights (all of which were switched on in broad daylight) seems the sort of overkill that prompts people to go out and buy military spec pens...

On the flip side, there was a guy on a really nice Ti On One 456. That was a cool looking bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 27 February, 2014, 05:27:51 pm
Someone upstairs was having fun with me on the way home I think. Lovely sunshine in front of me and to either side all the way home. Of course I was getting soaked under the big tongue of cloud that followed me all the way ::-)

Well it must be getting towards spring, the rain is getting warmer!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonJo on 27 February, 2014, 06:25:25 pm
It snowed. Not much but I was glad I had me long uns on under me short uns.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 27 February, 2014, 06:36:35 pm
Pootled back- was nice to do so with some light still around!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 28 February, 2014, 08:35:03 am
An incredible amount of Not Fun was had this morning. COLD. A raw, damp Nor'Easter. Brrrr :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 28 February, 2014, 09:48:42 am
Cold and headwindy. Also PT on Wednesday would seem to have done for my legs- they barely move! Still, at least it had stopped raining!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 28 February, 2014, 09:19:48 pm
"Gonna need a bigger oven, Mother!"

(http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f6/Wild_Turkey_Rocky_Mountain_National_Park_USA.JPG)

3 of them, mugging passing drivers...They were hooooge.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 03 March, 2014, 09:01:31 am
Busy out there today! Weather was crisp but nice though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 03 March, 2014, 09:14:13 pm
Gorgeous sunshine (if cold) Decided to head out to Wasdale on the way home*.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-apyG2273kWk/UxTe-DsYc5I/AAAAAAAAElI/WiEY7Oc6LuQ/w882-h553-no/IMG_20140303_175731.jpg)

(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-ZlAOhlF5uic/UxTfA07dGDI/AAAAAAAAElY/rtF-PMt7S58/w737-h553-no/IMG_20140303_175745.jpg)

Also found my first lambs of the spring :D
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-4gPgZBxKMfA/UxTe4YBz57I/AAAAAAAAEkg/PUhsc4Hbp-c/w883-h553-no/IMG_20140303_171521.jpg)




* well 25 km out of my way but you know what I mean :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ruth on 03 March, 2014, 09:16:05 pm
I rode that with Deano last year mcshroom, it's gorgeous isn't it? 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 03 March, 2014, 09:18:30 pm
It is rather splendid. Getting just about cloud-free fells round the lake is very rare  which made it extra special :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 04 March, 2014, 07:55:33 am
Quote from: mcshroom on 03 March, 2014, 09:14:13 pm
Gorgeous sunshine (if cold) Decided to head out to Wasdale on the way home*.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-apyG2273kWk/UxTe-DsYc5I/AAAAAAAAElI/WiEY7Oc6LuQ/w882-h553-no/IMG_20140303_175731.jpg)
Wow !   Just wow !

From a London commuter's perspective that looks pretty special.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 04 March, 2014, 07:59:37 am
I'd appreciate these beautiful bright frosty mornings more if they weren't so bloody cold.

Yet another morning of motorists behaving themselves. What's going on?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dibdib on 04 March, 2014, 08:32:14 am
"Forgive me, Father, for I have sinned... I have not commuted by bike for *cough* a while."

Flat pedals feel strange. I struggled to find a speed which kept all of me at the correct temperature. Realised I don't own any trouser clips. Now want to eat everything. (I'll make do with a coffee.) Didn't spot any rabbits, usually there are loads.

Still a nice start to the day, though, and saved a few drops of petrol too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 04 March, 2014, 09:07:12 am
Sounds good Dibdib :thumbsup:

(Raid the stationary cupboard for rubber bands - good makeshift trouser clips)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 04 March, 2014, 09:11:35 am
Quote from: hatler on 04 March, 2014, 07:55:33 am
Quote from: mcshroom on 03 March, 2014, 09:14:13 pm
Gorgeous sunshine (if cold) Decided to head out to Wasdale on the way home*.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-apyG2273kWk/UxTe-DsYc5I/AAAAAAAAElI/WiEY7Oc6LuQ/w882-h553-no/IMG_20140303_175731.jpg)
Wow !   Just wow !

From a London commuter's perspective that looks pretty special.

Meh.  I prefer the views as I slog through Putney......the stale taste of car exhausts, the mindless pedestrians, defending my space against buses - what is not to love?

Nope - you're a lucky chap mcshroom
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 04 March, 2014, 12:42:10 pm
Quote from: Guy on 04 March, 2014, 07:59:37 am
I'd appreciate these beautiful bright frosty mornings more if they weren't so bloody cold.
Yup, it was a tad chilly this morning wasn't it?

Quote from: Guy on 04 March, 2014, 07:59:37 am
Yet another morning of motorists behaving themselves. What's going on?

All the fuckwits have moved to Marlow I think ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: maxcherry on 04 March, 2014, 03:23:10 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 03 March, 2014, 09:14:13 pm
Gorgeous sunshine (if cold) Decided to head out to Wasdale on the way home*.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-apyG2273kWk/UxTe-DsYc5I/AAAAAAAAElI/WiEY7Oc6LuQ/w882-h553-no/IMG_20140303_175731.jpg)

(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-ZlAOhlF5uic/UxTfA07dGDI/AAAAAAAAElY/rtF-PMt7S58/w737-h553-no/IMG_20140303_175745.jpg)

Also found my first lambs of the spring :D
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-4gPgZBxKMfA/UxTe4YBz57I/AAAAAAAAEkg/PUhsc4Hbp-c/w883-h553-no/IMG_20140303_171521.jpg)




* well 25 km out of my way but you know what I mean :)


Where is this magical land? It's beautiful!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 05 March, 2014, 08:06:19 am
Firstly I'd like to thank the good people of Marlow for welcoming the motons of mid Beds :thumbsup: Another morning of well-behaved drivers.

And another bright, beautiful frosty mornining.

I could get used to this!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 05 March, 2014, 09:01:47 am
Three consecutive days of blue skies and light winds. I'm confuzzled ???

Dragged the Trek into work the steep way for the first time in a while. I'm slowly getting fitter it seems but I still think it would be better as a 44x18 than the 44x17 it is at present. Fingerless gloves too :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 05 March, 2014, 10:45:57 am
Quote from: maxcherry on 04 March, 2014, 03:23:10 pm
Where is this magical land? It's beautiful!

The Lake district. There are lots of bits like that. Wasdale commonly has cloud down the hills so views as nice in Marcus's pictures are unusual.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 05 March, 2014, 10:55:58 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 05 March, 2014, 10:45:57 am
Quote from: maxcherry on 04 March, 2014, 03:23:10 pm
Where is this magical land? It's beautiful!

The Lake district. There are lots of bits like that. Wasdale commonly has cloud down the hills so views as nice in Marcus's pictures are unusual.

Sorry, missed the question earlier. Yes those are heading up Wasdale towards Wastwater on the Santon Bridge Road in the Lakes.

Bit of advertising now, Revellinho's Cumbrian 200 audax goes right to the top of that lake and out on the road I was riding on the 17th May :)
http://www.aukweb.net/events/detail/14-95/
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Vince on 05 March, 2014, 10:59:45 am
First cycle commute of the year.

First it was sunny, then when I got to the polder it was cold and misty with the sun tantalisingly visible above the mist. Then it was clear again. Got lost found yet another route around the closed bridge in Rijswijk.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 05 March, 2014, 01:03:27 pm
As I approached Pencoed I looked at my watch and saw I had twenty minutes to get to work. I thought probably not enough time to take the scenic route but then I considered the traffic queues at the lights, the school, the road works and passed the first exit and took the second towards Heol y Cyw. A much nicer route with low traffic but I am heading slightly away from work so I take a left turn onto Heol Llan. As I climb up the little hill I am overtaken by a single car.  Near the top I look across to Mynydd y Gair to admire the view. It's downhill now, so very soon I am in Coity, every commute should have at least one castle. I look at my watch and realise that my time is up and I am at work yet, Oops :-) It's a quick ride from Coity to Bridgend Industrial Estate and work. 

Note to self.  Allow half an hour before taking scenic route.

   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 05 March, 2014, 01:18:04 pm
Set off a little late so did the shortest possible route to the station this morning... only to get there to find the trains were buggered.

After hanging about at the station for a bit, I decided to take my chances and ride to the next station down the line, 14km away, where I knew the train before mine was still being held. Of course, I was halfway there when I saw a train whizz past me, checked my app and saw that they'd all started moving again...  :facepalm:

Fortunately, I got to the station to find that my train (the one I'd seen whizz past) was still being held there, which was lucky. They'd started moving again but only intermittently.

So, despite leaving the house late, I managed to catch my usual train plus get a bonus ride in glorious springlike conditions. OK, so I got to work late due to the hold-ups, but at least I got there in a calm, happy mood rather than the usual stressed-out state when the trains screw up.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonJo on 05 March, 2014, 06:40:50 pm
Set off half an hour later than usual this morning and saw the sun come up into a clear, blue sky. Doesn't get any better than that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: danhopgood on 06 March, 2014, 07:00:06 am
Ended up driving round the block on a test drive in the car at 5.40pm as it had a fault I was trying to get fixed in a hurry before my wife went out.  Ended up at front of queue at traffic lights (with advance stop line)  that I've been across hundreds of times as a cyclist.  Road narrows the other side and becomes bumpy.  The generally accepted behaviour as a cyclist at this junction  is to let 2 cars go past and then move out for the bumpy bits.

As I'm waiting,a cyclist comes up to junction.  Bike has skinny tyres and cyclist creeps over the advance stop line. 

Lights go green and off we go.  I give cyclist as much room as I can and I'm past him.  But as road narrows and I slow down for the bumpy bit I hear a loud bang -like a cyclist banging on my door with a key or something hard.  WTF I think and slow down more, at which point cyclist overtakes on my outside and swerves to block my path, falling off his bike in the process.  He then proceeds to open my car door, give me a torrent of abuse about him needing to move out to avoid the bumps and slams my car door hard. 

My immediate reaction -as a seasoned cycle commuter - was the one that I don't want car drivers to think- that  cyclists are a bunch of arrogant self-righteous p**ks who deserve to get run off the road.

OK I misjudged his speed,but he could have eased slightly and moved out behind me. 

With a reaction like I got in that situation, that guy is going to get stoved in by someone less mild mannered than I am.

The roads are there for the benefit of everyone.  A bit of give and take is required.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 March, 2014, 07:30:58 am
On the commute: Me.

Just train assist again, but I have a meeting to go to at lunchtime, which is a nice trundle through the backstreets of Southwark :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 06 March, 2014, 08:45:00 am
Wet.
Wrong jacket.  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 06 March, 2014, 08:57:34 am
A first for me; a car sideswiped me. Glancing bump, first I knew was the wing mirror hitting my arm with a big bang, then a shove sideways as the body of the car scraped down my leg and saddlebag. No hurt or damage done and the fuckers didn't even slow down or stop.

(hey, boab, I've found a justification for saddlebags! The metal buckles scratch cars if they sideswipe you).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 March, 2014, 09:04:10 am
Nasty.

Glad you're OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 06 March, 2014, 10:05:58 am
Was running a bit early today so took a wee detour for fun.  COming up leith walk had some @rsehole pass me and am honestly very surprised he didnt brush up the side of me.  The pass was made about 30 yards from a red light so he began braking to a halt immediately he passed me.   That'll teach me to take that diversion again
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 06 March, 2014, 12:10:32 pm
I did my good citizen thing today and reported three potholes and damage to the Tooting Bec cycle path on "Fill that hole".
The potholes have been photographed this time as the previous e-mail from the council implied they would not be dealt with urgently. I think they might change their minds when they see the photos.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonJo on 06 March, 2014, 08:39:03 pm
There were more signs of spring. It was mild enough to wear shorts on the way home. And I swallowed my first fly of the year  :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dibdib on 06 March, 2014, 09:26:24 pm
Passed or was passed by at least ten cycle commuters this evening, all in shiny high vis jackets except me. This is along an off-road (but tarmacced) Sustrans path, so no motor traffic and minimal peds.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ruth on 06 March, 2014, 09:28:10 pm
Quote from: Dibdib on 06 March, 2014, 09:26:24 pm
Passed or was passed by at least ten cycle commuters this evening, all in shiny high vis jackets except me. This is along an off-road (but tarmacced) Sustrans path, so no motor traffic and minimal peds.

That reminds me of the bloke who once turned up at my spinning class in hi-viz and a helmet, which he wore for the whole 60 minutes of the class.

He must've sweated even more than me in that lot.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 06 March, 2014, 09:28:45 pm
Tandem school run, then a stokerless commute....

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/t1/1622654_10152189823771839_434083364_n.jpg)

I don't think 100 miles to date is too shabby to say we bought the Helios in December, which is the wrong time of year to buy a new bike really.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 06 March, 2014, 09:30:58 pm
Sunny! Warm! Legs on display!

Lovely ride out to a board meeting at my company in Buckinghamshire - played with some variations on my standard route and it mostly worked out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 06 March, 2014, 10:12:36 pm
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 06 March, 2014, 09:28:45 pm
I don't think 100 miles to date is too shabby to say we bought the Helios in December, which is the wrong time of year to buy a new bike really.

 :thumbsup:

Wrong time of year to fit an electric motor to one, too.

Hopefully we'll get out at the weekend...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 06 March, 2014, 10:19:38 pm
How can there be a wrong time of year to buy a bike?  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 06 March, 2014, 10:29:10 pm
I bought Valencia on my birthday.  In 2009, I think.  It was The Day The Snow Came.  Didn't got to for a ride on her for a fortnight, IIRC, and when I did it was a twitchy mile or so around the block on the on the slushy but reasonably well-gritted main road.  She got her first major scratch on her paintwork (a cub dropped something on her, or her on something, I don't remember) before I'd ever turned the pedals!

The tandem I got the day before my Small but perfectly formed Stoker went to his dad's for 3 nights.  Just before wo got ice.

However in both cases it was, really, the right time to buy because it was a rare set of circumstances that meant I could afford to!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 07 March, 2014, 08:19:17 am
I'm with Cudzo. There's never a wrong time time to buy a new bike

Today: I'm seriously starting to get worried. Another moton-free morning. What the heck is going on?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dibdib on 07 March, 2014, 08:44:08 am
Headwind, drizzly rain, pushy HGV drivers, and some numpty on a BSO cycling down the wrong side of the road, at me.

Inna huff.   :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 07 March, 2014, 09:45:40 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 06 March, 2014, 08:57:34 am
(hey, boab, I've found a justification for saddlebags! The metal buckles scratch cars if they sideswipe you).
If that's your aim...
(http://i952.photobucket.com/albums/ae7/fboab/2012-03-07165955.jpg)

I'd been quietly bemoaning to myself the rubbishness of commuting into town, what with the dearth of variations. Yesterday I got off the train at a different station and just rode around for a bit. There's an infinite variety of routes, really, I just need to use my imagination.

(Confession: I only went that way for Ingress portal-bagging.  :facepalm:)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 07 March, 2014, 10:38:06 am
Quote from: fboab on 07 March, 2014, 09:45:40 am
(Confession: I only went that way for Ingress portal-bagging.  :facepalm:)

One of my kids started playing Ingress. We looked up info about it and found an entry on a forum where someone said they'd ended up buying a bike, because they couldn't afford the petrol to drive round and bag portals.

So maybe it is really a cyclist's game . . .
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 07 March, 2014, 04:12:27 pm
Quote from: fboab on 07 March, 2014, 09:45:40 am
(http://i952.photobucket.com/albums/ae7/fboab/2012-03-07165955.jpg)

Which reminds me.  A few weeks ago I had cause to transport a sturdy cardboard tube of expensive sheet material (along with a load of electronics) to a nearby theatre.  After a bit of unsuccessful mucking about with bungees along the top tube, I opted for a similar attachment method.  Worked very well, and got me plenty of room from overtakers - even on the road with annoying speed-cushion conflict points.  Until I got to the bollards that are about 1.1 Trices apart...   :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 07 March, 2014, 04:44:01 pm
Quote from: sg37409 on 06 March, 2014, 10:05:58 am
Was running a bit early today so took a wee detour for fun.  COming up leith walk had some @rsehole pass me and am honestly very surprised he didnt brush up the side of me.  The pass was made about 30 yards from a red light so he began braking to a halt immediately he passed me.   That'll teach me to take that diversion again

Well I did take that route this morning, and the top end of leith walk is horrendously conjested and probably could easily have found myself in a situation where another @rsehole would do the same. But I was ready to slow it right down and wait, and it was ok today. Should have done this yesterday, slow learner.  Seems I need to change my mindset when approaching new bits of traffic. Who'd have thought it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 07 March, 2014, 05:30:34 pm
Quote from: Guy on 07 March, 2014, 08:19:17 am
Today: I'm seriously starting to get worried. Another moton-free morning. What the heck is going on?

They're all down here. A couple of much closer than necessary passes on the way to work this morning and yesterday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 07 March, 2014, 10:45:42 pm
Quote from: sg37409 on 07 March, 2014, 04:44:01 pm
Quote from: sg37409 on 06 March, 2014, 10:05:58 am
Was running a bit early today so took a wee detour for fun.  COming up leith walk had some @rsehole pass me and am honestly very surprised he didnt brush up the side of me.  The pass was made about 30 yards from a red light so he began braking to a halt immediately he passed me.   That'll teach me to take that diversion again

Well I did take that route this morning, and the top end of leith walk is horrendously conjested and probably could easily have found myself in a situation where another @rsehole would do the same. But I was ready to slow it right down and wait, and it was ok today. Should have done this yesterday, slow learner.  Seems I need to change my mindset when approaching new bits of traffic. Who'd have thought it.

Ah, Grasshopper...  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 08 March, 2014, 11:25:27 am
made it home no punctures, although I had M+ on the road bike.

Also saw a beautiful, black, gold and white Roberts somewhere in Hanwell and a Pearson steelie.

And my legs are quite pasty unfortunately. Well it can only get better.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 10 March, 2014, 10:24:51 am
Cyclists.
Lots of them.
Maybe even all of them.
The queueueueue for the lift in the foot tunnel at Greenwich went all the way to Blackheath.
Maybe.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 10 March, 2014, 10:26:15 am
Lovely weather, lots of traffic and the fair weather commuters came out!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 10 March, 2014, 12:49:27 pm
Yes, the bike store at work was noticeably the fullest it's been so far this year.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 10 March, 2014, 01:01:49 pm
Oddly compared to the reports above my roads were strangely quiet. There were gaps where I wondered where is all the traffic.  I did find it at the schools but mostly the cars seemed to avoiding me.  One cyclist passed me I passed none and I did not notice any in the opposite direction. I have made a step change in clothing to early Spring fashion. Today shoes, socks, knickers, long sleeved base layer, short sleeved shirt and helmet. I felt odd using long fingered gloves, which I have been using all Winter, with these clothes, I forgot to dig out a short fingered pair.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 10 March, 2014, 01:07:09 pm
And another moton-free ride.

Special thanks this morning goes to the driver of the blue estate car who, before I'd even reached the line, had come to a stop, thus stopping the great string of cars behind him and letting me go sailing across the A507 roundabout without even slowing down! :thumbsup:

As CommuteTooFar said, there was a distinct lack of motor traffic this morning. The A507 was its usual busy self but the side roads were empty. ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 10 March, 2014, 01:13:43 pm
Short sleeve jersey & arm warmers for the 1st time this year + an 18mph avg speed :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 10 March, 2014, 05:28:32 pm
Wind was favourable on the way home, fairly flew!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Reg.T on 10 March, 2014, 07:39:43 pm
Took the hilly route home tonight for the first time in ages. This includes some lanes, and I had a moton trying to overtake on a narrowish stretch road round a shallow right hand bend, but hardly going any faster than me. When something came the other way, she accelerated to just about past me, then pulled across and braked hard to squeeze past the other car. I shouted whilst taking avoiding action, and got the reply "slow down you idiot"  :o

A few hundred yards later, she'd pulled over, so I stopped to berate her for nearly having me off. Apparently I should've pulled over for her  ::-), slowed down  ???, and have been wearing a high viz  ::-). First time I've been really shouty and sweary for a long time.  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 10 March, 2014, 08:13:05 pm
After yesterday I thought it would be warm on the way home and promptly froze.  I hope summer didnt start and finish yesterday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phil W on 10 March, 2014, 09:07:27 pm
Short sleeve jersey, shorts, summer socks and shoes, buff on head , fingerless gloves #notaswarmasyesterday
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 10 March, 2014, 09:33:08 pm
First commute in six weeks (again  :facepalm:) and it was good to be awheel but whether I didn't have enough lunch or what but I spent the last six miles of the ride home dizzy. Sod's law it's the one time I didn't have any bonk rations in my capacious saddlebag.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 11 March, 2014, 08:21:05 am
"Close" pass this morning. A Volvo S40 only gave me about 2 feet. "Why are you complaining about that?" I hear you cry. Because that's the closest anyone's come in the last fortnight!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 11 March, 2014, 08:31:36 am
It was chilly and headwindy this morning! My outfit change may be premature...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Palinurus on 11 March, 2014, 01:01:00 pm
Commuting by bike again after breaking my hand a few weeks ago. Riding a 'cross bike this week with soft 35 mm tyres to reduce jarring.

It's going well. Also got in the habit of getting up earlier during my enforced bus commute so leaving home and work earlier- less traffic both ways.

Getting the bus wasn't the hell I expected. I bought a reasonably-priced monthly ticket (saving almost half the cost of buying a ticket daily), walked to a bus stop some distance from where I live which involves a walk through the park so I could hear the birds singing. Bus was reliable the whole time, never more than 10 minutes late, and that rarely. Got to catch up on my reading too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 11 March, 2014, 01:12:22 pm
This morning there was Fog.

Being in the Vale of York, the capitalisation is justified and, capital letter or not, riding through the inside of a cloud whilst wearing spectacles is always going to be interesting.

All gone now, though, which could make for a sunny, if somewhat chilly, ride home  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 11 March, 2014, 05:47:23 pm
Not my commute, but a commuting related observation: Traffic lights A38 Bristol, about 5:10pm - five bikes, one car (actually it was a van). One of the bikes was a BMX! I guess it's all normal nowadays but it's good to see.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 11 March, 2014, 05:52:52 pm
Quote
Nice bike!

Quote
Wow, what an exciting bike!

Quote
Regarde le velo!  C'est super!

Quote
It even has a cool name!

Guess which one was used today?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dibdib on 11 March, 2014, 06:21:38 pm
Numpy pedestrian walking straight into the road in front of me, as a cycle path merges into a road:

Quote
You want to come down there a bit steadier.

My response:

Quote
I did, which is why I stopped. You want to try looking left and right before you cross the road.

 :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Marco Stefano on 11 March, 2014, 09:57:23 pm
Yesterday, forecast homeward tailwind actually appeared as advertised. Shame the roads were not up to 40kph cruising, but the ease at 30kph was sweet.

And all the drivers I encountered were unfailingly courteous. No, no, really they were. Really. Had to happen sometime.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 12 March, 2014, 08:08:01 am
It was interesting this morning. Visibility ranged from Very Thick Mist Indeed to Total Fog-Out.

Most of my journey is on 30 limit roads. I don't think I saw a single vehicle going even that fast. And nobody was using full-beam headlights. Weird!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 12 March, 2014, 06:27:57 pm
Guy, have you started to dress up as a policeman on your commute by any chance?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 12 March, 2014, 06:48:28 pm
It was misty when I got up. But by the time I came to leave the house, the sun had broken through the mist, so I thought 'better wear the sunglasses'.
The sunshine stopped at the far side of the village. And we didn't see the sun again until about two o'clock.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 13 March, 2014, 08:32:31 am
It was like riding through cotton wool this morning :o And chilly.

Probably 10% of the vehicles that passed me in either direction this morning were displaying no lights:facepalm:

Some of those that were only had their sidelights on :-\

Fuckwits, each and every one >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 13 March, 2014, 09:02:36 am
Lovely ride in really, traffic not bad and the conditions were benign. Very nice!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 13 March, 2014, 09:06:24 am
Freezing fog for the first 10miles. Proper dead thick it was. I took the wrong turning off a roundabout because I couldn't see more than a car-length in front of me.

Why is it always people driving silver/white cars who don't have lights on in the fog?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 13 March, 2014, 09:12:01 am
Wrong gloves. Having been at my desk for 15 minutes, I can nearly feel my fingers again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 13 March, 2014, 09:25:28 am
I thought yesterday was foggy. Yesterday was only a bit hazy compared to this morning :o

Motorists still driving sensibly :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 13 March, 2014, 11:15:55 am
It's a good thing I make sure that cars have actually stopped before I cross the road. Pedestrian crossing, light red for a good two seconds and some idiot drives through at ~25mph staring at phone in his lap.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 13 March, 2014, 11:24:46 am
Quote from: teethgrinder on 12 March, 2014, 06:27:57 pm
Guy, have you started to dress up as a policeman on your commute by any chance?

I dunno what it is and I'm not going to look too closely. They say the act of observation changes the thing being observed, and I rilly rilly don't want the current driving standard to change.

Mind you, when the other shoe does drop...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 13 March, 2014, 02:03:57 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 13 March, 2014, 09:06:24 am
Freezing fog for the first 10miles. Proper dead thick it was. I took the wrong turning off a roundabout because I couldn't see more than a car-length in front of me.

Why is it always people driving silver/white cars who don't have lights on in the fog?
It seems that within 20min of my transit there were TWO road crashes on my route. 3 cars, a lorry and a tractor in total. Nobody dead so far.

FFS, morons and fog. Biggest problem is the fog between their ears.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Palinurus on 13 March, 2014, 02:57:20 pm
Saw this sticker on a car:

'Think Boke'

The biker making up the 'i' was sort of fat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 13 March, 2014, 03:26:15 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 13 March, 2014, 02:03:57 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 13 March, 2014, 09:06:24 am
Freezing fog for the first 10miles. Proper dead thick it was. I took the wrong turning off a roundabout because I couldn't see more than a car-length in front of me.

Why is it always people driving silver/white cars who don't have lights on in the fog?
It seems that within 20min of my transit there were TWO road crashes on my route. 3 cars, a lorry and a tractor in total. Nobody dead so far.

FFS, morons and fog. Biggest problem is the fog between their ears.

Bloody cyclist came out of nowhere in the fog and in avoiding him I hit ...

 :P  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 13 March, 2014, 07:07:51 pm
Foggy here too. Only two less-than-excellent cars.
Blue car. When there is a cyclist coming towards you between two lines of parked cars, the correct response is to wait for him, even if that means you also have to wait for the cars behind him who may have been far enough back to pull over.  The incorrect response is to accelerate towards said cyclist.  Fortunately he did see the error of his ways before I had to bail out (which would probably have been into or over one of the parked cars!)
J-reg BMW (nuff said-and it wasn't a vanity plate, it really was that old). Some lights would be useful. I was OK as I could hear that exhaust for what felt like ages before you passed me, but when you were up the other side of the valley, maybe 100m away, you vanished. The lights on the car in front were still visible whenever you weren't in line, but you were completely gone!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 13 March, 2014, 08:04:52 pm
Some guy on a SS going up Euston underpass decides to speed up on the uphill bit. I let him go in front of me and not sure what happened but he started bouncing between the cars.  He was a bit shook up, turns out his chain snapped and it didnt help it was rusted.

Lucky for him it was 2 lines of traffic otherwise he would have fallen in front of a moving vehicle.

Lucky for me I was behind him otherwise he might have taken me out as well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 13 March, 2014, 09:41:24 pm
AM - Nearly rode into the verge at one point in the fog.  Bit grim in parts all told.
PM - Glorious sunshine, lambs, yellowhammers and the first skylark songs of the year.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonBuoy on 13 March, 2014, 09:48:31 pm
Got a bit confused by the sunshine this evening and ended up doing an extra 30k on the way home.  It was lovely   :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 14 March, 2014, 08:17:32 am
Thick fog again. Sensible, courteous drivers again. This is getting dull.

I like this sort of dull thobut.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 14 March, 2014, 09:47:49 am
Drivers of the bit around Maidenhead and Marlow- well done, you all had your lights on and drove nicely.

Except the eejit in the van who took forever to pass me on the approach to, on and the exit to the mini roundabout. The glow that you could see in front was the queue of cars coming the other way  :facepalm: Yes, the shout of COCK! was at you as I started to feel a bit squeezed. An early COCK! prevented a panel slap.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 14 March, 2014, 09:58:14 am
RiP looked lovely in the mist and taking the long way round means I don't have to be near CS7. So all in all, quite a nice ride in!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 14 March, 2014, 01:03:15 pm
Yesterday as I was riding to work it was foggy.  I could see around 30m but after 8:30 the fog had gone and it was blue skies. Today I was not going to come to work because I am going on holiday. A urgent need arose so I will be starting my ski trip from work.  Unfortunately I can not cycle with ski luggage, at least not without preparation, so I took a lift to work and will get on my train a station early.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 15 March, 2014, 02:46:35 pm
on the commute on Thursday, on Lea Bridge Road, Walthamstow, London-bound, followed a light truck leaving a trail or bits of its initially unidentified cargo behind it. Realised after a while that the cargo in question was a big heap of partially broken glass to be recycled.  :o .
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 16 March, 2014, 07:37:18 pm
Friday, anyway. Stopped at a temporary traffic light, about two metres behind the car ahead, slap bang in the middle of the lane. Car in front starts to reverse. I wave, I shout, and scramble back. Fortunately only a nudge, but he's still not noticed I'm there. I presume he was reversing because a lorry was coming through the roadworks but there was loads of room. Anyway, I go around and tap on the window. I figure he ought to be told he'd just backed into someone. He did the look-ahead-and-ignore thing, the driver's thousand yard stare. Middle-aged fellow, the sort that looks like his chief pastime is developing a heart condition. Comically, the more he tried to ignore, the more the two women in the car got agitated. Now, I wasn't angry or yelling but I was having a serious WTF moment.

In the meantime, several pedestrians had ambled up. They'd seen the bump. So they start waving and yelling. I should point out at this point that two of my helpful pedestrian battalion looked like they were on their way home from the Stereotypical East-End Villain convention and were the size of small council tower blocks. It all became a bit much for him to ignore, so he levered himself out to confront the growing mob.

First he claims he didn't hit me, to be confounded by a pantomime chorus of 'oh yes you did'. Then I was in his 'blind spot' ('you're the facking blind one, mate' came the chorus). Eventually, I think, OK this is getting a bit out of hand so I end up saying 'look it's fine, just a nudge' (which it was) and he finally got back in his car with both his arms still attached. Unfortunately, he'd not apologised, so East End no. 2 removed him from the car so he could say sorry. It wasn't, to be honest, a very convincing apology but rather than let my rather splendid mob shake a better one of out him, it seemed probably best to graciously accept what had been ingraciously given and let him get on his way.

But yes, mirrors, they're there for a reason. Take for instance, the lady in the oversized car* who zoomed past me later. She was making good use of her windscreen mirror to apply her lipstick while travelling at 30 mph.

(*and seriously, they've made a BMW X6, like the X5 wasn't abomination enough, this one looks exactly what you'd expect if a brontosaurus took a strenuous dump on your driveway.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 16 March, 2014, 08:17:18 pm
Quote from: ian on 16 March, 2014, 07:37:18 pm
(*and seriously, they've made a BMW X6, like the X5 wasn't abomination enough, this one looks exactly what you'd expect if a brontosaurus took a strenuous dump on your driveway.)
:D I have seen this* and it's true!

*The BMW X6, not a brontosaurus turd. Though I'd rather see the bronto poo, tbh. But isn't it officially called diplodocus now?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 17 March, 2014, 09:18:23 am
I am such a wimp, I had a ridiculously close pass from a taxi private hire car, and it turned out it was dropping a passenger off at the station as I arrived. We were 10 minutes early for the train, which is obviously why he couldn't have waited 5 seconds to pass me on the opposite carriageway instead of squeezing in between me, the parked cars, and the traffic coming the other way. Tosser.
Anyway, I just gave him hacky looks. I should have knocked on his window and said something. Like "give cyclists more room, you selfish cunt, or I'll kick your car doors in and post shit through your windows". Or something.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 17 March, 2014, 09:26:57 am
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 16 March, 2014, 08:17:18 pm
Quote from: ian on 16 March, 2014, 07:37:18 pm
(*and seriously, they've made a BMW X6, like the X5 wasn't abomination enough, this one looks exactly what you'd expect if a brontosaurus took a strenuous dump on your driveway.)
:D I have seen this* and it's true!

*The BMW X6, not a brontosaurus turd. Though I'd rather see the bronto poo, tbh. But isn't it officially called diplodocus now?

Apatosaurus? If we are going to get onto dinosaur names we need a small child aged between 4-7 in the thread. My boy once corrected the guide at the natural history museum- it was a tad embarrassing.

As for the commute- beautiful. With the commuter in bits the best bike was deployed, as were shorts and a lap round Richmond Park due to the glorious weather!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 17 March, 2014, 11:28:28 am
It is apatosaurus. Diplodocus is altogether slimmer and lighter, quite unlike an X6.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 17 March, 2014, 11:41:53 am
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 17 March, 2014, 11:28:28 am
It is apatosaurus. Diplodocus is altogether slimmer and lighter, quite unlike an X6.

Excellent, the boy will be happy that he has taught me something! :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 17 March, 2014, 07:19:26 pm
Just now, not 500m from where I live, quiet residential street, a van pulls out from the offside, facing and heading the way I'm going. No indicators, natch, and I doubted he'd seen me, seeing as I had to take minor evasive action. I rap on the back door of the van with my knuckles and ride past (he's still completing his pulling out move).  He then passes me, shouting something out of the window, pulling to a halt a few metres later. Blah blah blah obscenity blah.  I suggested the reason I knocked on his van was because he hadn't seen me, he'd pulled out with out looking or indicating. He asked did I want to fight about it and emphasised that he did fucking look you cunt. He then repeated his invitation to fisticuffs which I declined.  He drove off, taking his tiny mind with him.

Ho, and indeed, hum.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 18 March, 2014, 06:51:41 am
Niiiice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 18 March, 2014, 08:07:07 am
Thats the crux of the problem isn't it (apart from the odd complete psycho).  If someone doesn't look, they won't see. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 18 March, 2014, 08:59:09 am
Nice enough spin in. Cloudy today though, was that summer yesterday? ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wascally Weasel on 18 March, 2014, 11:30:00 am
Priory Lane closed off at the junction with the Upper Richmond Road this morning, due to a ‘collision’ – it was fully taped off to all vehicle & foot traffic in both directions.

The TfL Streetworks site currently shows it as still closed – I’m guessing for formal investigation.  If you need it, there’s access of sorts through the housing estate to the right of Priory Lane (right if heading north, left if heading south) from a footpath and step just across from the lights on the western arm of the Upper Richmond Road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 18 March, 2014, 05:24:30 pm
So much headwind I now have earache. Owey.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 18 March, 2014, 05:54:38 pm
So tired.   :(
Even with all the extra loops my commute is only a round trip of 12 - 14 miles.  I'm getting concerned about my aging fitness.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 18 March, 2014, 08:31:45 pm
Mum with a ~3-4 yr old toddler.
Wearing  a magic hat.
No sign of a bike.
 ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Littlesox on 19 March, 2014, 07:15:12 pm
Well, yesterday really, but I have only just recovered.

BBC Weather girl quote "a bit breezy this afternoon"

That'll be it then.

As I rode home into a headwind at the blistering average of 12.6 mph and nearly falling off as I crested a ridge and a 32 mph (I checked later with RAF Shawbury) nearly blasted me off my bike backwards.

I'd hate to be around when she forecasts "stong winds".

Bit breezy ? My arse. (No pun intended)


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: billplumtree on 20 March, 2014, 12:39:25 pm
Quote from: Littlesox on 19 March, 2014, 07:15:12 pm
Bit breezy ? My arse. (No pun intended)

Quote from: billplumtree on 14 June, 2012, 09:05:13 pm
The forecast in the outdoor shop back in Ullapool had said "Light airs" for today, conjuring up a vision of carefree cycle tourists, bowling along with gay abandon.  Light airs?!  Awa' wi' ye - light airs, my airse!

 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 20 March, 2014, 05:58:16 pm
Summat goin' on in South Brum tonight.  I encountered four unmarked police cars on my short commute.  Each one was doing crazy speed and just playing "chicken" with oncoming traffic. 
By the third one I'd learned to stop and get right up on the pavement.  The panic reactions of yer standard brummie driver was just too unpredictable.  They were just throwing themselves all over the place.
And I don't blame them.  Those police cars were definately not taking any prisoners with their driving.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 20 March, 2014, 07:16:21 pm
Not today but Tuesday I rode past an actual real life cliche. I didn't think people really drove along putting their makeup on in the rear view mirror  :facepalm:

Was rather tempted to thump on the window as I went past but thought better of it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 20 March, 2014, 08:04:27 pm
Was it Kenneth Branagh on his way to work?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 20 March, 2014, 09:24:53 pm
Quote from: Basil on 20 March, 2014, 05:58:16 pm
Summat goin' on in South Brum tonight.

Power cut in King[']s Norton.  Maybe they're looting?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Reg.T on 21 March, 2014, 07:08:47 am
Quote from: Ashaman42 on 20 March, 2014, 07:16:21 pm
Not today but Tuesday I rode past an actual real life cliche. I didn't think people really drove along putting their makeup on in the rear view mirror  :facepalm:

Was rather tempted to thump on the window as I went past but thought better of it.
I saw one yesterday too - driving along the A4 with a newspaper spread across the steering wheel - I think it was the sport pages.
I made a gesture, but he may not have seen it of course.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 21 March, 2014, 03:46:01 pm
Quote from: Ashaman42 on 20 March, 2014, 07:16:21 pm
Not today but Tuesday I rode past an actual real life cliche. I didn't think people really drove along putting their makeup on in the rear view mirror  :facepalm:

Could see someone doing that this morning ( I was in a bus). They were applying eyeliner using the mirror on the back of the sunshade, while steering with their knees.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 21 March, 2014, 06:35:16 pm
Last night's commute, scared the living daylights out of myself. Not through anything cycling-related, I listened to the new Radio 4 version of The Exorcist. Rather excellent it was, but probably not the best thing to do while cycling alone down dark, windy lanes, under the trees and miles from anywhere!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 21 March, 2014, 07:20:09 pm
Struggled to summon the gumption with the fuzzy-edges of a will-it-won't-it-pre-migraine threatening.  Then looked at my sadly neglected bike, and wondered if poor Valencia would even get me there.

Had a stern word with myself.

Gave the drive train a cursory clean such that it was once more clearly a chain in there somewhere, albeit a fairly filthy one, rather than a belt-drive.  Inflated the tyres to an appropriate level.  Slightly embarrassed by how woefully under pressure they were, given that I lent the Very Lovely Valencia to CrinklyAuntie so she didn't have to walk home t'other day.  Decided that I could live with the rest and set off.  By this point I'd missed the worst of the traffic on the normally fairly vile lane out to this particular site, and it wasn't too grim. 

Of course, all of the above meant I'd gone in quite late.  And then I accidentally talked myself into helping in a lesson, so stayed longer than I should have technically.

The road back into town at "rush" hour.  On the side of the road with the _really_ crappy surface.  Didn't fancy the 15 mile detour to go the long way, but after a couple of miles I decided to go the other-other way, which only adds a couple of miles.  The deciding factor was the close pass from a car that must been doing well over 50 but didn't think it worth putting a wheel over the centre line.  A couple of miles of blissful peace before traversing the 1079 and heading in to Dunnington.  As I turned the corner at the Cross, I could smell the chippy... so stopped, and sat watching the world go by from a bench over the road whilst I ate my chips.  Saw a colleague, and got rained on, then rode the rest of the way home and realised I'd missed the closing time for the sorting office where I need to go and collect a mystery parcel.

Better than the bus, anyhoo.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 24 March, 2014, 08:54:19 am
Legs were a little surprised after having had an extended rest but managed to go round perfectly well. Roads were busy with cars and cyclists.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 24 March, 2014, 09:49:20 am
After last week's weather, didn't expect to have to content with ice this morning. Both on the road, and forming on my clothes and gloves. That was a bit chilly!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 24 March, 2014, 10:32:45 am
Came in via Holborn Circus this morning. Despite previously mentioned reservations, now that the works are getting nearer to completion, it actually looks like a major improvement from a cyclist's point of view. Heading eastbound and turning right still requires you to cut across a lane of impatient/fast straight-on traffic, but that's much as it ever was and hard to see how to avoid it except with a cyclist-only phase in the lights.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 25 March, 2014, 09:53:53 pm
On the commute today I had the enthusiasm, time and energy to use the bike for the first time since January. Was good. Tomorrow will be in the car because the day has become packed, but I'm confident that I'll be back on the bike again in under two months.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 26 March, 2014, 08:17:02 am
well yesterday. First time on the mtb with no punctures. Long may it continue.  The easterly wind is helping on the way back home as well, so win-win all around currently.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 26 March, 2014, 11:39:54 am
Made the mistake of CS7 again at rush hour. Some lycra idiot bulleted past me so fast at the lights that he clipped my shoulder. Apology? I caught up at the next lights, politely pointed out that I'm sure he'd agree that a little more space would be nice, after all we cyclists would like that from drivers. He grunted and replied 'if you don't like it, don't ride on the road.' Delightful sample of the torrent of testosterone that is CS7 in full flow.

It's mildly amusing watching grown men wobbling about at the lights. Really, you're not ten years old. Putting your foot on the ground is not a total abrogation of your masculinity. You're wearing what's effectively a pair of tights anyway. That's one step away from lacy panties and shoplifting from Victoria's Secret and an awkward conversation with a significant other.

It's mostly sane after Baalham. I've yet to find a route from CS7 to Croydon so I got lost in the benighted hinterlands of south London. I've never seen so much dirty grey pebble-dashing and I've been to both Brent and Hounslow. There's a place call Furzedown that sounds delightful, like it's full of wood nymphs or somesuch, all shaded sylvan glades and glissading streams. It's really not.

Riding 40 kilometres on a Brompton made my legs a lot sorer than on a grown-up bike. I blame the little wheels for making me pedal faster.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 26 March, 2014, 11:47:48 am
Top post!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 26 March, 2014, 12:53:19 pm
I was puzzled this morning.  I had not been watching the news. So I was delighted by the light traffic outside the schools. In addition to that it was a lovely ride in. As I arrived at my T junction with the A4179 two other cyclists passed in front of me.  Despite what I said above I had to wait for traffic to pass before I began following. I was not chasing but it is not uncommon when the Spring cyclists appear that they are not that fast. Sure enough as I climbed the first hill the gap was closing. As the big descent followed they moved away. The order of the cyclists changed on the next hill and I was much closer and passed him almost immediately. I enjoyed following the female hermit crab. Her bike could take a good rack. She was very fast downhill but on the next hill I passed, said "Good morning" and disappeared up the hill.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 March, 2014, 01:25:26 pm
Ian, if I'm heading Croydon direction, I turn off CS7 to go through Brixton, then carry straight on till the top of Streatham Hill, where I take the left fork, and that leads me directly to the roundabout near Mayday Hospital.  I turn right to go down the Purley Way, but straight on goes to Central Croydon, and all the delights it contains.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 26 March, 2014, 01:35:55 pm
Quote from: menthel on 17 March, 2014, 11:41:53 am
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 17 March, 2014, 11:28:28 am
It is apatosaurus. Diplodocus is altogether slimmer and lighter, quite unlike an X6.

Excellent, the boy will be happy that he has taught me something! :)

Here (http://www.manitobamuseum.ca/main/geology_paleontology/2010/12/06/motherload/) are photos of apatosaurus poo. It looks nicer on the inside.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 26 March, 2014, 01:37:09 pm
Quote from: ian on 26 March, 2014, 11:39:54 am
...
It's mostly sane after Baalham. I've yet to find a route from CS7 to Croydon so I got lost in the benighted hinterlands of south London. I've never seen so much dirty grey pebble-dashing and I've been to both Brent and Hounslow. There's a place call Furzedown that sounds delightful, like it's full of wood nymphs or somesuch, all shaded sylvan glades and glissading streams. It's really not.

Riding 40 kilometres on a Brompton made my legs a lot sorer than on a grown-up bike. I blame the little wheels for making me pedal faster.

Might be a bit out of your way, but left alongside Sainsburys after Colliers Wood Tube will land you on the Wandle Path.  I'm not sure what happens to it after Morden Hall.  Presumably deep immersion in pebble-dash and BNP leaflets before the final push to the festering swamp remodelled family leisure facility where the Mighty Wandle rises.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 26 March, 2014, 02:49:20 pm
I have navigated the Wandle Path all the way to Croydon, but it's a bit wibbly for commuting. To be honest, I like getting lost. Though the endless pebble-dash blighted streets that seem to fill the gap between Mitcham and Norbury do seem especially barren and with few navigable landmarks. There's not many a time that Streatham Common station is considered an oasis, but after four confused circumnavigations of Mitcham, it is. I probably could navigate via the whiff of Beddington sewage works and the occasional glimpse of the Ikea chimneys. I mostly scoot down CS7 to Baalham and then turn up towards Streatham, then follow the cycle route by Streatham Common station to Norbury and then straight down via May Day. I figure there's a better route, possibly Brixton is the trick. As for getting through Croydon, who knows, I go through the pedestrian bit and out the other side. It's like pedalo-ing across the Styx.

Sadly, they've reopened the A22.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 March, 2014, 02:51:18 pm
Whatever you do, do not enter Pollards Hill.  It bears no relation to the geography of the outside world.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 26 March, 2014, 09:01:50 pm
Quote from: clarion on 26 March, 2014, 02:51:18 pm
Whatever you do, do not enter Pollards Hill.  It bears no relation to the geography of the outside world.

It's true, there's only one way out. If you don't know it, you die. One of my colleagues lives there. I think he got stuck and it proved easier to build a house than find a way out.

It's that triangle between Tooting, Streatham, and Mitcham that troubles me though, I believe no urban Magellan has yet to successfully navigate those blasted suburban wastelands. Like Amundsen and the Northwest Passage, no matter than hardships, I will find a way. I will open a new route from Baalham to the promised lands of Croydonia. I shall lead my people into the light.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 26 March, 2014, 09:06:22 pm
Well I either had a tailwind assist or 'post audax hero legs' but I flew home tonight (relatively speaking - I'm still slow). Realised I was doing well a couple miles from home and pushed to make it in 1h09 when I usually take at least ten minutes more for the 16 miles.

Got a bit rained on at the start and ummed and aaahed over putting the waterproof on, chose not to and it was the right choice luckily, rain eased off and I would have boiled in the bag.

Given that I very nearly drove today it was an ace pair of commutes (shame about the work bit in between).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 27 March, 2014, 08:52:48 am
To anyone who was caught out by the miserable cold rain in Leeds last night, I apologise. It was my fault.

Yesterday morning I left my overboots and waterproof mitts at home. Dry cool weather, why would I need them?

It pissed it down as I left work. Only just short of sleet. After 5miles my hands were going numb and I couldn't feel my toes. After 15miles everything was hurting. After 20miles I was just insistently telling myself "keep going, you can get home" mindlessly turning the pedals, no long able to change gear.

Nearly couldn't get into the house as I couldn't move my fingers to use keys. Fortunately, front door had been left unlocked.
Circulation returning in shower was a bit painful. Might have sworn now and then.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 27 March, 2014, 09:12:21 am
Cold and very trafficky. Still, the sun was out and I am back on the commuter after my fettling success, so its not all bad!

As for getting to Croydon- I did it once and decided never again. The closest I ever come now is going to Coulsden and up over Farthing Down...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 27 March, 2014, 09:23:42 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 27 March, 2014, 08:52:48 am
To anyone who was caught out by the miserable cold rain in Leeds last night, I apologise. It was my fault.
Your influence reaches far beyond Leeds. Trust me on this.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 27 March, 2014, 10:00:39 am
Quote from: ian on 26 March, 2014, 09:01:50 pm
Quote from: clarion on 26 March, 2014, 02:51:18 pm
Whatever you do, do not enter Pollards Hill.  It bears no relation to the geography of the outside world.

It's true, there's only one way out. If you don't know it, you die. One of my colleagues lives there. I think he got stuck and it proved easier to build a house than find a way out.

It's that triangle between Tooting, Streatham, and Mitcham that troubles me though, I believe no urban Magellan has yet to successfully navigate those blasted suburban wastelands. Like Amundsen and the Northwest Passage, no matter than hardships, I will find a way. I will open a new route from Baalham to the promised lands of Croydonia. I shall lead my people into the light.
VG!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 27 March, 2014, 10:06:43 am
Quote from: velosam on 26 March, 2014, 08:17:02 am
well yesterday. First time on the mtb with no punctures. Long may it continue.  The easterly wind is helping on the way back home as well, so win-win all around currently.

should not have posted this, as the front was flat this morning. Changed it but could not find a hole in either the tube or anything in the tire.  So my number is now around 5/6. sigh
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hulver on 27 March, 2014, 01:16:18 pm
Wet lunchtime ride home to let the dogs out.

Managed to get home without any rain, which was good because I'd left my jacket at home. Getting back to work was wet and freezing though. Mixture of hail and rain.

And because it was sunny when I set off from the office, I didn't bother to get changed, so all my work clothes are soaking wet now. They're now on a radiator, humidifying the room.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 27 March, 2014, 01:30:56 pm
Longer route today, as I had a horse piddle appointment. Scene: narrow residential road, cars parked on off side, reducing the available width to one lane. I'm already in this narrowed bit and a car start coming towards me, ignoring handy gap in the line of parked motors on his side and keeps coming. I'm in a "strong primary", but he just carries on. Taking on board comments from my friends about the wisdom, or not, of hitting cars, I just give my best "Italian full back" hands in the air shrug and squeeze over.

His car passes and I note it's emblazoned "courtesy car". This makes oi larf.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 27 March, 2014, 06:48:58 pm
Had to get a lift in today  :(  got bloody shin splints  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: dasmi on 27 March, 2014, 07:11:25 pm
Quote from: fungus on 27 March, 2014, 06:48:58 pm
Had to get a lift in today  :(  got bloody shin splints  :(

Running or roses to wrags   :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 28 March, 2014, 08:13:17 am
Fog. In these conditions I use the toucan crossing on the A507. The red lights come on and all the motor traffic has to stop, just for me! :thumbsup:

Another week goes by and still no sign of motonism. ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 28 March, 2014, 09:34:57 am
Too bloody dangerous out there this morning. Heavy traffic, choppers on bikes and ped lemmings agogo. Quite frankly CS7 was not fun this morning. May go home via RiP if the weather is nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 28 March, 2014, 12:04:59 pm
Meandering back yesterday I filtered past a load of traffic coming into Croydon. Not unusual, there's often a queue for the Promised Land and it was getting towards rush hour where the souls really pile up. Coming over the top of the rail bridge the road was open down to the lights. Odd, thought I. Why is the lead car stopped about 50 metres from those lights, right on the brow of the bridge? Perhaps they're just a really keen trainspotter waiting for a train to emerge from West Croydon on its epic voyage to Sutton.

The driver of the car blocking the road was actually fast asleep. Totally zonked out. Slack mouthed and snoring.

I was worried that he'd died or something, and well, I'm only a licensed to practice botany. But the beeps from the cars behind jump started him and off he went.

I gave him a wide berth at the lights.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 28 March, 2014, 12:24:34 pm
Bloody hell.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 31 March, 2014, 08:49:44 am
Lots of people cycling like idiots out there this morning. I guess it has begun. No shoulder checking, RLJing, shoaling and all sorts of behaviors that will start the Daily Mail readers fuming. Still, makes me go a little faster to get past them and in some sort of clear space.

On a happier note, shorts and short sleeve top today! The mitts were perhaps slightly ambitious as I got chilly fingers but I won't complain too much!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 31 March, 2014, 02:10:21 pm
First commute with al-fresco fingers this year :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 31 March, 2014, 07:51:51 pm
Grabbed a hire bike for (most of) the trip home this evening, thereby maintaining my cycling average for 2014 - one trip per month.  :-\

It was rather good fun.  I may well try this cycling lark a bit more often.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 31 March, 2014, 08:29:03 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 31 March, 2014, 07:51:51 pm
Grabbed a hire bike for (most of) the trip home this evening, thereby maintaining my cycling average for 2014 - one trip per month.  :-\

It was rather good fun.  I may well try this cycling lark a bit more often.

I thought I hadn't seen you for a while...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 01 April, 2014, 07:46:48 am
An two-'OY!' commute this morning.  The first elicited a steady avoidance of eye contact; the second, a shamefaced look of shock and a waved apology.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 01 April, 2014, 09:31:29 am
Went for a lap of RiP this morning before work. Visibility was about 10m and I developed a nice layer of rime on my arms and legs (cos I is hairy). The beard dew refreshed me nicely though. Traffic miserable the rest of the way in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 01 April, 2014, 09:43:19 am
What a gorgeous, gorgeous start to April.

Happy days.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 01 April, 2014, 10:35:43 am
Wahey !  Back on the bike for the first time since Feb 7th. A combination of heavy cold, holiday and then a broken rib have kept me out of action. Seven weeks idle and I am delighted to report that I still have legs, albeit not as strong as before.

Motons were fairly well behaved though I still struggle to understand why people don't put their lights on when it's that foggy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hulver on 01 April, 2014, 02:09:47 pm
I thought I was having a good week so far. My last three trips have all been without a single close pass at all.

So of course, I got 3 in one trip today. Generic white van and boy racer where both "Well, the car in front got through, must get past bike" before running out of room with opposite traffic and pulling in sharpish to where I still was. The third was just a "I can squeeze through here, loads of room" passing me with inches to spare.

It's getting quite dis-heartening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 01 April, 2014, 03:00:08 pm
Quote from: Ham on 01 April, 2014, 09:43:19 am
What a gorgeous, gorgeous start to April.

Happy days.

Where were you? My start to April was a morning commute in full winter rain gear. It was pouring down and decidedly cold. The TV has been going on about how wonderful the weather was last weekend. All I saw was mist with a high of about 7C. I know the North East didn't suffer from the effects of flooding earlier in the year, but the powers that be have certainly been making up for it by making us suffer in the cold these last few days.  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 01 April, 2014, 04:29:01 pm
Lodnod.

 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 01 April, 2014, 05:43:28 pm
Glorious! The sun was warm and I just wafted gently home!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 01 April, 2014, 06:46:44 pm
I swallowed a bug of reasonable size.   Someone tried to pull out in front of me, but thought better of the manoeuvre, and ended up stopped in the middle of the road.  :hand:   Otherwise 30mins of mostly downhill/flat on a great spring evening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonJo on 01 April, 2014, 08:25:07 pm
Quote from: SlowCoach on 01 April, 2014, 03:00:08 pm

Where were you? My start to April was a morning commute in full winter rain gear. It was pouring down and decidedly cold. The TV has been going on about how wonderful the weather was last weekend. All I saw was mist with a high of about 7C. I know the North East didn't suffer from the effects of flooding earlier in the year, but the powers that be have certainly been making up for it by making us suffer in the cold these last few days.  :-\

Stuck my nose out of the door at 6ish and thought it was a goer. Even did a couple of extra miles at the start of the commute but then felt a few spots of rain. Before I got to the next bus shelter I was soaked and it was flipping cold too. The NE can be grim when the wind's in the East.

Was a good ride home though with a bit of a tailwind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 01 April, 2014, 10:33:55 pm
Why oh why oh why does fog bring out the cockwomble in drivers. Had a full months worth of blind bend passes in about 10 minutes this morning. TWO of these required a driver coming the other way to nearly stop, and one of those, the passing car had to stop and pull back in behind me - only to scream past seconds later.

I think the total was about 6.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 02 April, 2014, 10:17:47 am
Yesterdays ride home included a bonk of epic proportions.

It was so bad that when I got to the bike shop which is only about 150 yards from my gate, I had to stop to get a quick gel is order that I could concentrate enough to make it home in one piece.

The shop staff had to open the gel for me!

 ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 02 April, 2014, 10:26:10 am
Quote from: fuzzy on 02 April, 2014, 10:17:47 am
Yesterdays ride home included a bonk of epic proportions.

It was so bad that when I got to the bike shop which is only about 150 yards from my gate, I had to stop to get a quick gel is order that I could concentrate enough to make it home in one piece.

The shop staff had to open the gel for me!

 ::-)
;D
BTDTGTTS

It's epic when when you know if you can just suck on a boiled sweet, chew a toffee or slurp a gel, you have one with you; but opening the packet is totally beyond you. Thought, coordination and energy simply aren't there.

Anyone read Jack London's 'To build a fire'?  There needs to a re-writing, with the protagonist a cyclist. 'To eat a gel' or something similar.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 02 April, 2014, 06:42:49 pm
"To light a fire" - His dog knew what he planned and backed away.

Had a smashing driver today, emailed thanks to the firm and got a nice reply.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: AlexR on 02 April, 2014, 07:43:41 pm
Hi all,my first post here.
On the commute today,had some kind skip lorry driver overtake me so close I thought it was the end.
On a positive note,it least it wasn't raining :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 02 April, 2014, 09:21:34 pm
Welcome AlexR.

Sadly, your experience with a skip lorry is not all that uncommon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 03 April, 2014, 09:30:57 am
As I rode along Winter Hill this morning, looking across the Thames Valley, the air looked postively Saharan. Or was it smoggy?

Dunno but it looked very whatever it was ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 03 April, 2014, 09:57:54 am
Traffic pretty bad but not a bad pootle in! The bacon and egg chapattis outside Balham Tube smell way too good though and look like the ideal bike based snack.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 03 April, 2014, 10:58:33 am
I used the 24" gear all the way this morning.  4.3 Miles

Nothing wrong, it was by choice.  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Vince on 03 April, 2014, 11:07:03 am
Got up early this morning so I had time to use the east of Delft route. I stopped using this way last summer because there were so many building/road/canal repairs going on that the diversions were annoying.

Pleased to say that all repair work completed, though the temporary bridge over the motorway extension has now been converted to a temporary tunnel under the motorway extension.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 03 April, 2014, 11:30:54 am
After my first cyclo-commute in over seven weeks on Tuesday I was so pooped that I didn't wake up until 9, yesterday so had to drive into the office (I don't like pitching up in cycle gear much after 9 - it really flags that you are late).

Back on the bike today and either I'm developing a chesty cold or the pollution has got to me, or perhaps I shouldn't be trying to go as fast as I was before my enforced lay-off.

Still, it's wonderful (if knackering) to be back on the bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hulver on 03 April, 2014, 11:55:26 am
I took the good bike today, as I'm fed up of the Winter tyres on my commuter bike. I must get around to changing them.

The steering feels twitchy after the laid back style of the commuter.

Nice to be quicker though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: AlexR on 03 April, 2014, 05:46:45 pm
Quote from: hatler on 02 April, 2014, 09:21:34 pm
Welcome AlexR.

Sadly, your experience with a skip lorry is not all that uncommon.
Thanks,yes it was not the first time,I have had encounters with a skip lorry.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonJo on 03 April, 2014, 06:21:25 pm
It was cold and damp. I was coughing mi tripes up. My chain snapped on a busy roundabout. It took 20 mins to fix cos I couldn't see. When I got to work there was no hot water. Not much fun TBH.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 03 April, 2014, 06:54:17 pm
First commute since Tuesday last week.
Going in was lovely.
Coming home, the b****y floods appear to be back.  >:(
(Do hope it's not too bad for the poor sods down on the levels)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 03 April, 2014, 07:36:13 pm
Perfectly nice pootle home. Said hello to a chap with a audax uk sticker on his mudguard riding a bluish condor. Wonder if it is anyone here. Said he was riding 3 down at the weekend!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 03 April, 2014, 07:53:13 pm
Extended the ride home by a mile to drop off CV and covering letter at BEER FETTLING COMPANY.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: AlexR on 04 April, 2014, 07:37:49 pm
Had a nice fast 20 mile each way commute today on the velomobile.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 04 April, 2014, 09:05:39 pm
A minor triumph for me; I've completed a full 5 day commute by bike only (150km tot); my first for a long time.  Enjoyed it, and haven't used a car since last Sunday.   :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 04 April, 2014, 09:14:32 pm
Very cool. Well done.   8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 07 April, 2014, 09:26:05 am
Schools are off for Easter. What a difference on the roads. Even given that it's raining, the one busy road I cross was empty this morning. Looked right and left as I crossed and counted 3 cars in a quarter-mile stretch.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 07 April, 2014, 11:51:33 am
Roads were not as quiet as expected for easter and I may have got a bit angry at a cockwomble on a dahon. Still I could have been on public transport! ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 08 April, 2014, 09:09:59 am
Yesterday's scenic route to work was cut short when I finally discovered what the creaking noise, that I'd been meaning to investigate honest guv, was caused by.  Loose crank bolt, innit, transformed into loose and wobbly crank.

A mile or two of one legged pedaling to my place de jbex followed by applying appropriate grunt with a borrowed 8mm allen key and all was well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 08 April, 2014, 09:22:54 am
My route is just as busy. Unfortunately I managed fall off. Totally my fault, was in too high a gear, when the bus stopped. No space to change the gear, tried to ride, go toe overlap and everything jammed up.  Thankfully the transmission is OK. Taxi cab behind wasnt too pleased at being held up for 30sec while I got onto the pavement.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 08 April, 2014, 09:35:43 am
Much windy wind today. Made my elongated park commute interesting!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 08 April, 2014, 10:00:32 am
Yup, that wind was head on for me. That was quite tough given that that was only my fourth time on the bike in the last seven weeks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 09 April, 2014, 10:47:47 am
Headwind on way in yesterday.

Lovely strong tailwind. Time to relax, I'm tired.

Except I can't. Because there is someone wheel-hugging me. There is a sodding tailwind, so why they feel the need to sit in behind me I don't know. They are a complete stranger, it's a really busy road, I don't like having them half a wheel behind me.

Dunno why, but I *hate* having someone do this. If they creep past me, it is annoying. I feel I can't just ride to my own pace and relax. I can't brake or dodge a pothole without worrying.
If someone is ahead of me and going a similar pace I usually slow down so I don't catch them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 09 April, 2014, 12:00:51 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 09 April, 2014, 10:47:47 am
Headwind on way in yesterday.

Lovely strong tailwind. Time to relax, I'm tired.

Except I can't. Because there is someone wheel-hugging me. There is a sodding tailwind, so why they feel the need to sit in behind me I don't know. They are a complete stranger, it's a really busy road, I don't like having them half a wheel behind me.

Dunno why, but I *hate* having someone do this. If they creep past me, it is annoying. I feel I can't just ride to my own pace and relax. I can't brake or dodge a pothole without worrying.
If someone is ahead of me and going a similar pace I usually slow down so I don't catch them.

If someone is riding like that uninvited, ride the way you normaly would. if they can't dodge the pothole you avoided, that is not your fault.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 09 April, 2014, 04:07:27 pm
Quote from: fuzzy on 09 April, 2014, 12:00:51 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 09 April, 2014, 10:47:47 am
Headwind on way in yesterday.

Lovely strong tailwind. Time to relax, I'm tired.

Except I can't. Because there is someone wheel-hugging me. There is a sodding tailwind, so why they feel the need to sit in behind me I don't know. They are a complete stranger, it's a really busy road, I don't like having them half a wheel behind me.

Dunno why, but I *hate* having someone do this. If they creep past me, it is annoying. I feel I can't just ride to my own pace and relax. I can't brake or dodge a pothole without worrying.
If someone is ahead of me and going a similar pace I usually slow down so I don't catch them.

If someone is riding like that uninvited, ride the way you normaly would. if they can't dodge the pothole you avoided, that is not your fault.

I get them when I'm on the 'bent (because recumbents are 'fast', 'slow' and 'interesting' - obviously on an upright the "it's a girl: must overtake" rule applies, so you don't get the same problem).  If I rode like I normally do there's a 50% chance of them collapsing in a pile of b0rked wheel as the Vorsprung durch HPVelotechnik glides over some crater or other, and a  50% chance of them landing on my head next time I hit the brakes.

If conditions are favourable, I'll drop them, but most of the time I go for the same approach that I use for tailgaters when motoring: slow down until they get pissed off and overtake.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 09 April, 2014, 08:29:33 pm
Back on the commute today after 2 weeks off due to shin splints  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Palinurus on 10 April, 2014, 08:35:29 am
Nice day, used 'cross bike and took the canal route. Recently resurfaced with small stones. Both spare tubes punctured within a few miles, thought I'd have to resort to stuffing the tyre with grass- actually sort of wanted to as I could post in 'skip bike and bodge it'. As it happened the tube with the smallest hole got me here with regular top-ups.

Still a good ride though.

My mini pump is shit, must get a good one.

Will need to get another tube from somewehere today, either that or stuff the tyre with bubble wrap.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 10 April, 2014, 11:18:13 am
Still too much traffic! No easter lull on CS7 yet...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 10 April, 2014, 03:02:08 pm
It's that lovely time of year when my lanesy evening ride home from the station is at dusk, the time of the evening when the bats are out in force.

Yesterday evening, I was treated to a wonderful batty display, including having one wee critter flapping along, following the road, just above and ahead of me for about half a mile.

This is why I ride a bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 10 April, 2014, 04:21:27 pm
I have bats on the way home too, alongside a river close to Heathrow.  I do wish there were more bats though, which could get rid of the large swarms of bugs that appear at dusk (and sometimes early morning, but always worse at dusk) at 3 or 4 points along the route, which you have to simulataneously look where you are going (shared path), but keep head down enough you don't get a face full.  I can hear them bouncing off my jacket and hat, its horrid.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 10 April, 2014, 04:37:09 pm
Quote from: SJSBrompton on 10 April, 2014, 04:21:27 pm
I have bats on the way home too, alongside a river close to Heathrow.  I do wish there were more bats though, which could get rid of the large swarms of bugs that appear at dusk (and sometimes early morning, but always worse at dusk) at 3 or 4 points along the route, which you have to simulataneously look where you are going (shared path), but keep head down enough you don't get a face full.  I can hear them bouncing off my jacket and hat, its horrid.
I get that at this time of year going past the ozonation plant approaching Hampton. From a distance the swarms of flies look like a smoke trail. Nose breathing only.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 11 April, 2014, 08:45:19 am
Got myself a whole five* blasts of the horn and an angry hand signal this morning, from a driver incredibly upset that he wasn't able to pass me while I was indicating right and passing through a pinch point.

Funny how the driver ten yards in front of me didn't get the same treatment, despite holding Mr Angry up for the next three miles.



* Three of those were after he was able to pass - I didn't hold him up for that long!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 11 April, 2014, 09:08:29 am
The bugs were really bad last night, I was a bit later than usual and when I got off the train at 19:30, I initially couldn't work out why I was surrounded by bugs on the station platform itself, then realising that where I had ended up, halfway up the platform, is where the river (same one as I ride along to get home) actually goes under the station at this point.

I went up and over the bridge and outside the other side of the station as usual, and could see over the road by the river path entrance huge swarms of the damn things already.  So I braved the first swarm, but took the right fork to the wider shared path that leads to a back road away from the river, rather than go down the left fork to the river path. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 11 April, 2014, 09:45:36 am
Took the long route (including Richmond Park) to work. Chilly and dead legs but there is something calming about a lap of the park in the morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 11 April, 2014, 10:09:22 am
I managed four out of five days on the bike today for the week. First time since the first week in February I have managed that. Phew. I'm getting my legs back.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 11 April, 2014, 05:19:11 pm
Got beeped at again this evening! A porsche driver too engrossed in sending texts, looked up to find me in front of him, and as he'd not been looking out of the window up to that point did not realise that (a) I'd just overtaken him, (b) I was indicating clearly, and (c) I was going faster than him. He then came up alongside and started ranting about how that was how cyclists get themselves killed  ::-) A few choice phrases in reply didn't seem to deter him from being right.

Then, a couple of miles later, he had caught up with me again, came alongside and shouted:

(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonJo on 11 April, 2014, 05:26:45 pm
It is the best time of the year. Didn't mind when I woke early as it gave me time for a longer ride into work. When the sun came up I was riding along the back roads near Cocken Lodge. Lapwings were doing their aerobatics, a woodpecker was drumming and there was hardly anyone about. Bloody marvellous.
When I got to work (late but who cares?) there was a hare as big as an Alsation dog in the car park. They seem to be totally fearless if not down right aggressive at this time of year.
Bike shed was busy and I had that "where the hell were you lot in January" feeling as I tried to find a space but that's a small price to pay for such a brilliant ride into work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 11 April, 2014, 08:05:33 pm
Sounds rather lovely, JonJo.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ruth on 11 April, 2014, 10:00:01 pm
It really does sound lovely JonJo, I'm very envious of your hare sighting!
Title: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 12 April, 2014, 07:32:29 am
I saw a hare recently on my morning ride to the station. It was, er, haring across a field. I was surprised, as I didn't think we had any hares round here. Certainly not a common sight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonJo on 12 April, 2014, 08:34:47 pm
Quote from: citoyen
Sounds rather lovely, JonJo.
Quote from: Ruthie on 11 April, 2014, 10:00:01 pm
It really does sound lovely JonJo, I'm very envious of your hare sighting!

It was really uplifting. It more than makes up for the commute in the rain last week when my chain snapped.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 14 April, 2014, 08:37:16 am
Very strange wind this morning.  I just couldn't work out which direction it was actually blowing in.
With loops at both ends of the ride in, I ride in all directions at some point of the journey.  Surely I should have had a tail wind at some point?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 14 April, 2014, 08:44:42 am
Quote from: Basil on 14 April, 2014, 08:37:16 am
Very strange wind this morning.  I just couldn't work out which direction it was actually blowing in.
With loops at both ends of the ride in, I ride in all directions at some point of the journey.  Surely I should have had a tail wind at some point?

Nothing personal Basil but, you sad, deluded fool ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 14 April, 2014, 09:12:49 am
 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 14 April, 2014, 09:26:28 am
Traffic was lighter but after a weekend of excess my legs were dead. Still, the sun was out even if the wind (headwind I am sure...) made it chilly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 14 April, 2014, 12:49:22 pm
Lovely sunny day and I was going along great, then a stick got stuck in the chain and jammed everything up. Bent the rear mech and hanger, bent the new chain tug and almost had me off.

Most things are bent back into sort of working order, but the rear mech is now very sloppy and just doesn't look quite right. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 14 April, 2014, 02:08:51 pm
A lovely commute this morning although I think I should have changed to shorts this morning rather than using knickers for one last day.  Most of the schools are off now except for one Infants/Primary school. There was no hold up here without the next door comprehensive the traffic was flowing. The Lollypop lady was sitting on a bench with nothing to do.

So we have this nice weather all week and light traffic and a short week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonJo on 14 April, 2014, 04:36:47 pm
Quote from: Basil on 14 April, 2014, 08:37:16 am
Very strange wind this morning.  I just couldn't work out which direction it was actually blowing in.
With loops at both ends of the ride in, I ride in all directions at some point of the journey.  Surely I should have had a tail wind at some point?

Har har har. It was with me. Light westerly on the way to work. Nor' easter to blow me home this afternoon. Result.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 14 April, 2014, 05:27:59 pm
Nice ride home in the sun and not too much traffic! Lovely.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 14 April, 2014, 11:26:23 pm
Half mile from work and I thought - something is wrong. Pulled over. Oh dear, wobbly crank. I don't have tool to get cap off so I can't tighten it. Wobble back to Evans. Mechanic has a feel (ooer) and says no, not loose crank, totally shafted BB bearings. GN, they can fix for not much. BN well - as he noted, quite a bit needs replacing. They replace BB bearings in 15min. We have discussion about chainrings - he informs me I can fit smaller ring, he managed to get 46 on his bike for cyclecross racing. He looks on their catalogue to see prices - TA ring reduced from 44 to 19. That's ordered then.

Is it a sin to say I like that branch of Evans?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 15 April, 2014, 08:11:54 am
Where did that frost come from? My knees were glowing  when I got here this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 15 April, 2014, 09:00:28 am
Chilly and plenty of traffic. Man down at Tooting Bway but looked to be talking. I think I will elongate tonight and have a lap round Richmond Park.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 16 April, 2014, 10:10:04 am
Went for a RiP lap and it warmed up to the point where my arm warmers got rolled up! Had some mechanical issues with my back brake and my front derailleur attempting a 45 degree shift towards the seatpost but it was nothing 5 minutes with a multitool couldn't fix! Long live spring!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 16 April, 2014, 11:34:22 am
The bluebells are out! This makes me happy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 16 April, 2014, 12:28:02 pm
I have not seen any bluebells yet but they thinned the trees from place I used to see them. In the past couple of years bluebells they have been less abundant. There are still lots of Primroses though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 17 April, 2014, 09:54:58 am
Not that it's a race or anything, but my first sub 20 minute commute of the year - and on the tourer with heavy tyres :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 17 April, 2014, 10:14:22 am
This morning started with a late night computer based job hunting induced headache.

A couple of paracetamol follwed by a ride in fresh, cool, clear air has sorted that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 17 April, 2014, 10:24:38 am
Gorgeous weather this morning. Only slight downside for me is that I tried chopping my left index finger off on Tuesday evening. I can bend it without a problem but straightening it is very sore indeed. Hand swollen and sensitive to bumps, so every time I approach a bump or speed ramp I have to take my hand off the bars, and then ever so carefully re-wrap it around the hoods. Ouch.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 17 April, 2014, 10:25:43 am
Ooo yes. And then perfect day spoilt by being told my job is moving to Kuala Lumpur, without me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 17 April, 2014, 10:38:30 am
Quote from: hatler on 17 April, 2014, 10:25:43 am
Ooo yes. And then perfect day spoilt by being told my job is moving to Kuala Lumpur, without me.

:(

Sorry to hear that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 17 April, 2014, 11:50:47 am
Quote from: hatler on 17 April, 2014, 10:25:43 am
Ooo yes. And then perfect day spoilt by being told my job is moving to Kuala Lumpur, without me.
that's more than a bit carp
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 17 April, 2014, 11:59:24 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 17 April, 2014, 11:50:47 am
Quote from: hatler on 17 April, 2014, 10:25:43 am
Ooo yes. And then perfect day spoilt by being told my job is moving to Kuala Lumpur, without me.
that's more than a bit carp
Thank you. Quite how it is intended that the team's combined 40 years of knowledge is to be transferred to people on the other side of the planet is yet to be explained. Let's see if the 'consultation' period really is that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 17 April, 2014, 12:42:01 pm
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 16 April, 2014, 12:28:02 pm
I have not seen any bluebells ..... There are still lots of Primroses though.

The old  blue bell area is still a mess without them.  However I was wrong. On my way home I looked at the primroses and a little way higher up the bank there were bluebells.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 22 April, 2014, 09:34:28 am
Weather and traffic both yuck.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 22 April, 2014, 09:03:53 pm
Took the long way home, 30 miles including a pub stop. Still a tad cold for sitting outside without the sun shining on me (blue sky overhead but cloud towards horizon  ::-)), but very pleasant nonetheless.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 22 April, 2014, 09:08:56 pm
One of those days riding the edge of a dark cloud with a little light rain but not enough to make you feel wet and cold. Different to the 20oC heat and bone dry roads of yesterday, but quite fun actually :)

Primroses seem to be springing up all over now. Not sure if they are new out or they are easier to see now the daffs are dying back. Pretty though anyway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 24 April, 2014, 08:58:21 am
Busy out there, both with drivers (some idiots) and cyclists (more idiots than usual). The proliferation of clean carbon bling bikes was noticable today!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 24 April, 2014, 10:10:09 am
First commute in ten months.  In fact since moving offices to London.  Route was Lychpit - Newnham - A30 - Bagshot - Windlesham - Chertsey - Shepperton  - Kingston - Richmond Park - Putney Bridge - Kings Road - The Mall (office is near Embankment tube).   :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 24 April, 2014, 10:11:51 am
Quote from: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 24 April, 2014, 10:10:09 am
First commute in ten months.  In fact since moving offices to London.  Route was Lychpit - Newnham - A30 - Bagshot - Windlesham - Chertsey - Shepperton  - Kingston - Richmond Park - Putney Bridge - Kings Road - The Mall (office is near Embankment tube).   :smug:

Sounds like a nice run in! :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 24 April, 2014, 10:41:19 am
Gorgeous morning, made all the better by being able to ride through it on a bike.

Considerate truck drivers, no close passes, bike buzzing along. Heaven.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 25 April, 2014, 06:09:44 am
Nice run back too.  It would have been a 99.6 mile round trip except I made a detour to Domino's for supper so reached 101.2  :smug:.  Didn't get away until 6.45pm because they moved a meeting to another office in London but as it was a balmy evening that was no bother.   ;D Nice way to sneak in a century ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 25 April, 2014, 08:45:13 am
Walked in today.  Only the second time this year.
1hr 11 mins for just under 5 miles.

And my 1 hour marker has now moved a couple of hundred metres closer to work.  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 25 April, 2014, 08:58:55 am
Cycled in on the Italia- crappy traffic and one or two idiot drivers but otherwise a nice trip in on my favourite bike!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 25 April, 2014, 09:37:15 am
Me. Right now. At the train station. Heavy legs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 25 April, 2014, 09:51:06 am
I'm using new glasses which have a narrower field of view than the old ones. It feels very claustrophobic. Not sure I'm enjoying them at all.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 25 April, 2014, 10:57:19 am
I wore glasses today. I much prefer contacts for riding now.

I'm slow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 25 April, 2014, 11:27:12 am
Clipped by a another cyclist running a red light, trying to squeeze between me and the car I was stopped next too.

I hope he enjoyed lying on the floor in the middle of a junction, I probably shouldn't have laughed and called him a very rude name.

Downside is my shoulder now hurts where he caught me coming past.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 25 April, 2014, 12:33:45 pm
I had a great commute today. Instead of my usual route via Pencoed I looked at my watch and did my favourite diversion. Branch towards Brynceithin after Heol y Cyw turn left onto Heol Llan. At the top of the slight rise I look at my watch ten minutes to go. So down hill I go, keep the speed up the slight hill to Coity, which does not have the school crowd for this last day, past the Castle then down the B road towards Bridgend Industrial Estate. I hope the right turn is clear. It was but I chickened out of a full speed right turn and made a safe quite fast turn instead. I arrive in work with four minutes to spare and a grin on my face.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 28 April, 2014, 01:05:38 pm
Great start this morning, On Saturday I has washed the bike, pumped the tyres and oiled the chain. As it Monday clean cycling clothes. So I felt pleased as I left the house.

I left home 25 minutes late arrived with 2 minutes to spare. Damn you traffic lights I nearly achieved the mythical[1] sub hour commute. 

[1] Not actually mythical, I used to do it quire regularly but that was a long time ago. These days I think I need to allow an hour and a half.


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 28 April, 2014, 02:41:16 pm
Traffic and dead legs- no fun! Looks like the strike means I have to cycle over to canary wharf tomorrow as well. Bah.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 28 April, 2014, 03:24:55 pm
New BB-bearings/chainring/chain/cassette/jockeywheels makes it feel like I'm riding a new bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 29 April, 2014, 08:17:51 am
Foggy this morning. The weather got one thing right today. It didn't start raining until after I got here :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 29 April, 2014, 09:32:34 am
Agh!  Yesterday, on commute home, in the 'deadzone' (ie about as far as it is possible to get from a station), I had a rear flat. No worries. I have full kit, two tubes, blah di bloody blah.

Kit out, tyre off, tube out, taking care to keep tube lined up with wheel, go for pump. Pump there, but the rubbery bit in the end which goes over the valve has completely unscrewed itself and disappeared. Bloody hell.

The first time in 10 years I've had to walk. At least I had remembered my wallet for the train fare, and it wasn't raining.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 29 April, 2014, 10:56:40 am
Fettled the good bike yesterday and had two of the best rides I've had for ages. It was so smooth and silent I was actually having to make sure other riders and pedestrians knew I was there.
It's safely tucked up at home for the next couple of days in advance of a couple of long rides.

Today was a bit fraught at times. Lots of inexperienced road users.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 30 April, 2014, 08:30:29 am
Yesterday afternoon on Ampthill Road a car came up behind me and waited while I passed some parked cars. And continued to wait until I'd passed the first set of KEEP LEFT bollards. And was still waiting as I passed the second set of KEEP LEFT bollards. And waited some more until I had passed the van parked on the other side of the road, and finally pulled out and passed me on the other side of the road. It was a blue Skoda. In fact, it was the blue Skoda.

I don't know what the nice lady rozzer said to him on Saturday but it must have sunk in :thumbsup:

This morning it was either foggy or somebody had thrown a damp grey blanket over my head. The nutters on the A507 were still doing 60, many without lights, in visibility of 100 yards at best :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 30 April, 2014, 01:27:27 pm
The usual game of dodge the mums, kids, sick and elderly as I rode the 50meer or so stretch on the Redway past the nursery school, clinic and old people's home.
But a bit different today. At least 6 kids, probably more like 10 riding bikes. All but 1 or 2 didn't appear to be accompanied by adults. These kids only came up to about my handlebars, so must be pretty young.
 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 30 April, 2014, 01:36:18 pm
I commuted by bike today, so I can turn up to the yaCf pub meet on a bike. (Not a motorbike).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 30 April, 2014, 02:40:35 pm
Something's come into flower, I think the cow parsley, there are loads of midges or flies pinging my face all of a sudden.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mad Jack on 30 April, 2014, 07:33:44 pm
Cool and misty this morning needed wipers on the glasses. Local duel carriageway closed for resurfacing forcing all the traffic onto the old road and minor roads. Total gridlock at 17.15 heading home, two wheels (not moto) was the quickest thing on the road.  ;D
Some drivers deliberately wandering into the cycle path!  Solitude once reaching the local sustrans path with all the Wrens, Blackbirds and bluebells...   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 01 May, 2014, 10:59:36 am
I really should learn to lie.
Yet again, another person at work has mentioned to me they see me on my way to work.
“But you’re going the wrong way”
“Er yes, I take the back roads up to Northfield, then back down to Cotteridge.  After 3 or 4 miles I pass within 50 meters of my house again…...”
At this point I trail off a bit due to the look of non comprehension and slack jaw I’m now looking at.  So I don’t bother to tell them that the same sort of thing happens at the work end of the journey as well.  Or that the same sort of thing happens on the way home.

Some of the braver ones have stuck with it long enough to ask, “But, why?”
All they get is, “Because I can?”
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 01 May, 2014, 11:29:53 am
… and I think I'm beginning to side with your work colleagues.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 01 May, 2014, 11:42:59 am
Quite a moist trip in this morning. May have to deploy spare emergency clothes for trip home!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 01 May, 2014, 11:57:02 am
Quote from: Riggers on 01 May, 2014, 11:29:53 am
… and I think I'm beginning to side with your work colleagues.

“I’m riding all the right roads, but not necessarily in the right order.”
 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jsabine on 01 May, 2014, 12:02:29 pm
Quote from: Basil on 01 May, 2014, 10:59:36 am
...  After 3 or 4 miles I pass within 50 meters of my house again…...”

While I understand (and probably applaud) this in principle, in my case it would founder on the rocks of having to get up in time to leave early enough to not arrive late significantly later than normal.

I don't much like mornings.




(Actually, that's a lie. I *do* like mornings, quite a lot. Unfortunately I detest getting up, and this feeling wins out whenever it can.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 01 May, 2014, 07:58:24 pm
Behold the human sponge!

I did waver this morning, as it would be commute number four this week (and according to the little GPS lady in my phone that's sixty modern kilometers each day), and the clouds were decidedly incontinent. But I thought, what the hell, what doesn't kill you is merely biding its time for a better opportunity. The rain wasn't bad, I don't mind being wet as long as I stay wet, but the endless water-filled potholes that comprised the lunar landscape of the A23 certainly kept me on my toes. Also there was puddle so deep in Brixton that my entire foot disappeared under the water on the downstroke. I think there might have been fish in it. Possibly a submersible. Maybe even MH370.

I just addressed my calorific deficit with a jar of Nutella and a spoon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 01 May, 2014, 08:43:54 pm
Can't we address the dearth of post of the day activity by just giving ian direct access to the thread?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonJo on 01 May, 2014, 08:48:03 pm
Quote from: ian on 01 May, 2014, 07:58:24 pm
I just addressed my calorific deficit with a jar of Nutella and a spoon.

Have a look at number 3. http://twistedsifter.com/2013/01/50-life-hacks-to-simplify-your-world/ (http://twistedsifter.com/2013/01/50-life-hacks-to-simplify-your-world/)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 02 May, 2014, 09:15:30 am
That link's jolly useful actually!! Good ideas on there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 02 May, 2014, 10:51:40 am
Wet on the way home last night- ended up soaked through after about 30 seconds. Nice spin in this morning, traffic a little lighter and it wasn't raining!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonJo on 02 May, 2014, 05:24:19 pm
Excellent creature feature near The Chilton this morning. A Barn Owl flying low, following the line of a ditch across the fields. I guess it was looking for Bank Voles for its young uns. They must have to put some long shifts in at this time of year and what with the nights getting shorter you are more likely to see one in daylight I suppose.

On the way home I followed the old railway line up to Consett and came down the Lanchester valley line to Bearpark then up the A167 so my commute today came in at a massive (for me) 52 miles.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 02 May, 2014, 06:30:30 pm
Nice trip home, remarkably relaxing!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 06 May, 2014, 10:09:33 am
Managed to get to a 16mph average, just about, thanks to a nice 12mph wind pushing me along.Going to pay for it on the way home though!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 06 May, 2014, 10:15:48 am
Broken spoke on back wheel of commuter, whilst I went inside to sort things out someone nicked the garmin off my bike. Now have a wheel to get repaired and a garmin to replace. Bah.

Still, nice commute in on my Italia!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 06 May, 2014, 12:05:34 pm
This morning I had my least comfortable commute for years.  I have a new pair of cycling shoes. Unfortunately I think they are too small for me. No problem with the length but far to small a volume for my size 6 1/2 but wide feet. Hopefully they will stretch a bit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonJo on 06 May, 2014, 05:38:58 pm
Somebody pinched a stay from my rear crud guard racer. I mean these things just don't fall off spontaneously. B@st@rd!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Reg.T on 06 May, 2014, 07:49:42 pm
^ Not a very aptly named component then.  :(

A very slow and gentle commute both ways for me today, after Porkers at the weekend. 8) Just about dodged the showers too.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 06 May, 2014, 07:58:01 pm
Ride slowly, relax and recover, it's been a hard weekend riding the porkers.

That was the intention for the ride into town.

Why, oh why am I so competitive? It really doesn't matter if they go past you, even if their saddle is too low and their chain is brown.

Damnit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moultonaught on 06 May, 2014, 08:58:23 pm
First cycle commute for a very long time. Rode the 40km home from the office. Really nice ride except for getting totally drenched and the plank that is a brand new Brooks swift that needs breaking in.... It made itself known on the last few k!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 06 May, 2014, 09:43:38 pm
My Silly Commutes over the Cairn o'Mount came to an end at the turn of the year, due to my old workplace closing down and me being made redundant.

I'd hoped to ride to my new work more often, since it's much closer.
But that's not happened much yet, for various reasons.
Once, in fact.

However, I am working odd shifts which gives possibilities.
This week, I'm on 10am - 6pm.
Staying back to get the kids out at 8 means I can drive to work for 8:20, then ride up the CoM and back in time for a 10am start!

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/494424481

( Actually, I had to turn around 10 mins before the summit.  I was out-of-time :-( )

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 06 May, 2014, 09:43:58 pm
two lanes approaching lights on red, I'm in the left straight on lane, cyclist on a Pashley is riding about a gnat's chuff away from the dividing paint, she's on the extreme left of the right lane. Chap in a Corsa ahead of me slows cos nobody knows what the flip she's doing, he daren't risk squeezing up her inside so waits, very patient actually. Bit my tongue, could have commented on positioning but it may have gone wrong and there would be an awkward silence as we waited for the lights to change. Had a Daily Mail in her rear basket.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 06 May, 2014, 09:48:35 pm
It got windy!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 07 May, 2014, 09:12:22 am
Quote from: JonJo on 06 May, 2014, 05:38:58 pm
Somebody pinched a stay from my rear crud guard racer. I mean these things just don't fall off spontaneously. B@st@rd!

I may have a spare, drop md a line with an address and if I find it will post it
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 07 May, 2014, 11:40:11 am
My knee is playing up so I drove in for once, to be followed into the work car park by a police car.

This was to inform me that my drivers' side brake light was out, but weirldy they also checked my details on the database and then asked for a breath test (routine apparently - and I haven't had a drink for a week so scored zero).

Was my driving really that bad? ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 07 May, 2014, 01:07:13 pm
I had new shoes on yesterday.  Unfortunately they are little to narrow. And my feet started to hurt. I ignored my feet in the same way I ignore the cold on my hands in Winter so arrived at work quite happy. In the evening as my feet had changed shaped through the day the fit was completely unacceptable.  I only got as far as the station. A shame I will never wear these 'new' shoes again.  A pity I can not send them back, after I have fitted cleats and ridden twenty miles. If anyone wants a pair of Lake MX105 with Time Atac cleats  size 40.5 I will sell them to you for the cost of postage.

Today I placed an older pair of Lake 40.5 shoes on my feet.  These MX220 shoes like the other half dozen or so lake shoes I previously used have plenty of room. Lake make a normal and a wide size, Clearly the new shoes are not the wide size.


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jsabine on 07 May, 2014, 02:26:30 pm
Not worth giving them a few more goes to see if they stretch? Your friendly local cobbler might be able to suggest something.

(Of course, if they were size 43 I'd be commiserating with you and asking how much postage would cost ...)

(Actually, they might well fit my wife. Um, how much would postage be?)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: danhopgood on 07 May, 2014, 05:05:35 pm
3 "Grrr" moments in 3 miles this morning, with littl'n on the back. 

One car turned right as I was turning left, squashing me into the kerb, followed by two overtakes where they had to brake to a stop before they were properly past me due to traffic, where there was room for a bike. 

Last one I had words with the driver - in the driveway of the nursery where he was dropping his littl'n off.  He said he'd get me next time - which was nice.  Especially as he'd be "getting" my littl'n too.

Mrs H says I just need to let these folks treat cyclists like dirt.  I find it hard.........   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 07 May, 2014, 05:47:02 pm
I noticed a lot more aggressiveness from the motons than is usual this evening.  Not so much aimed at me, more at each other.  Something in the air?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 07 May, 2014, 06:00:08 pm
Full moon in a week?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 07 May, 2014, 06:10:10 pm
Quote from: Basil on 07 May, 2014, 05:47:02 pm
Something in the air?

Dihydrogen monoxide, by the look of it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 07 May, 2014, 06:16:44 pm
Quote from: Kim on 07 May, 2014, 06:10:10 pm
Quote from: Basil on 07 May, 2014, 05:47:02 pm
Something in the air?

Dihydrogen monoxide, by the look of it.

Thankfully I managed to ride between showers.

Quote from: Basil on 07 May, 2014, 05:47:02 pm

 Something in the air?

Ooh, I've just had a Thunderclap Newman moment.   :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 07 May, 2014, 06:50:02 pm
So I'm experimenting with un-commutes which are basically morning rides I can fit in in about 1.5 hours before a 10am start at work.
A section of the Deeside Loop on Sunday gave me an idea, which worked out well.
A nice 34k loop, with a modest hill.

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/495003755
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 07 May, 2014, 11:55:21 pm
Some lucky sod doesn't have to worry about montonson his way to work in the morning-
(http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b360/mattlangridge/DSC04055.jpg) (http://s23.photobucket.com/user/mattlangridge/media/DSC04055.jpg.html)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Palinurus on 08 May, 2014, 08:09:05 am
Wet hair? no towel?

No problem- just use yesterday's shirt.

First check you remembered today's shirt
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 08 May, 2014, 08:19:34 am
I got complimented on my Helly Hansen souwester hat this morning.  I was pleased as it came from a normal looking bloke in a flat cap on a nice classic racing bike, like boys used to ride back in the 70s/80s when I was at school.  Usually it is funny looks from the full lycra brigade.  I was dressed normally other than the overtrousers and if one considers a souwester hat normal.  They are very effective at keeping the hair dry though so I don't care.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 08 May, 2014, 09:51:26 am
Moist on the way in but other than that it was fine. Would have been better on the commuting bike with mudguards though- need to get the rear wheel fixed this weekend!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 08 May, 2014, 10:06:18 am
Not been that wet with my clothes on for some time!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 08 May, 2014, 01:48:24 pm
Thankyou Mr. Yodel driver. You made my day. I saw you coming and deliberately held back until you had passed, but you slowed down, flashed, and waved me out, letting me cross your lane into the cycle lane beyond. This must be a first.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 08 May, 2014, 02:15:01 pm
Lovely commute in today, not.  Heavy rain for most of it, so I was rapidly wet, and then I had a front wheel flat, I think through hitting a pothole obscured by a puddle.  When I put the wheel back in it, it was rubbing, which investigation showed was due to a front wheel spoke having broken.  That explained the loud bang from five minutes earlier, which I'd eventually decided was a stone thrown up by a car hitting the bike.

That front wheel is the companion to an eBay bought rear wheel that I gave up on after having four spokes brake in 500 miles.  The front has lasted 1000 miles longer, but at most that's the second front wheel spoke I've ever had go.  The moral of that story is to not buy cheap(ish) wheels from small eBay purveyors, no matter how competent they appear.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 08 May, 2014, 10:11:54 pm
I had a slow puncture so I caught the train home. I have a problem with my rack being too tight. It makes it almost impossible to refit the wheel once removed. My own fault I was supposed to change it a long time ago.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 09 May, 2014, 09:02:29 am
Took advantage of the tailwind in this morning and had a nice run in. Showed an ebike rider that he wasn't as fast as a proper bike with one, human engine too! ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 09 May, 2014, 09:14:45 am
Sometimes legs are just too smart, it was a four day week but mine still knew it was Friday.

(Going in the opposite direction to menthel might have had something to do with it)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 09 May, 2014, 09:16:11 am
Tried to help a cyclist mend a snakebite. Superlightbike, latex tubes, huge holes in tube. Bloody Leeds potholes. Glue wouldn't hold (he didn't have anything apart from a pump and my tubes were too big). Ended up leaving him phoning his wife to pick him up.  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 May, 2014, 10:01:58 am
Never worth the effort of repairing a rare hole in a latex tube.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moultonaught on 09 May, 2014, 10:19:40 am
Rode a mile to the station on the fix, in suit and tie with my trouser leg tucked into my sock.  a lovely sunny ride albeit rather brief...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 09 May, 2014, 10:44:31 am
Quote from: Ham on 09 May, 2014, 09:14:45 am
Sometimes legs are just too smart, it was a four day week but mine still knew it was Friday.

(Going in the opposite direction to menthel might have had something to do with it)

Just think of your journey home! I am not thinking about mine, it might be a little slower than my trip in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 09 May, 2014, 11:05:03 am
Quote from: clarion on 09 May, 2014, 10:01:58 am
Never worth the effort of repairing a rare hole in a latex tube.

I've just found my instant stick park patches. They would have probably worked :(

Are latex tubes hard to patch? I've never used them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jsabine on 09 May, 2014, 11:25:05 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 09 May, 2014, 11:05:03 am
Quote from: clarion on 09 May, 2014, 10:01:58 am
Never worth the effort of repairing a rare hole in a latex tube.

I've just found my instant stick park patches. They would have probably worked :(

Are latex tubes hard to patch? I've never used them.

Never used 'em myself either, but information elsewhere suggests that they patch OK, given care. It is probably better to use a bit cut from a dead latex tube rather than a normal butyl patch, but standard vulcanising solution should work fine.

And at eight or twelve quid each, I'd definitely be patching rather than chucking them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 09 May, 2014, 12:28:18 pm
Quote from: menthel on 09 May, 2014, 10:44:31 am
Quote from: Ham on 09 May, 2014, 09:14:45 am
Sometimes legs are just too smart, it was a four day week but mine still knew it was Friday.

(Going in the opposite direction to menthel might have had something to do with it)

Just think of your journey home! I am not thinking about mine, it might be a little slower than my trip in.

I think you head about the same home way as me - sw to twickenham for me. I have just got home after some meetings in town.  You may be surprised to hear it was considerably slower than the journey in.

So much tree stuff in the air as well. Eyes and throat hurt.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 09 May, 2014, 12:29:58 pm
I'm just hoping it holds out until home time. That was hard work this morning (SW20 to Sunbury).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mustgettaller on 09 May, 2014, 12:43:39 pm
First time commuting on the bike for a week or so...  :)

Got to work to find I'd left my keys at home. Probably still in garage door :(. Got spare keys from Security :). Opened locker. No work clothes because I'd forgotten that I'd ridden home in them (not lycra) two weeks ago because of pub appointment on the way  :facepalm:. Cycled home  ::-). Found keys still in door  ;D. Got changed into work clothes, got in car.  :( Drove to work, with spare clothes to put in locker to restore organisational status quo.

At least the direct commute (when I'm not doing a scenic route round the hills/villages) is only 3 miles!  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 09 May, 2014, 12:52:20 pm
Quote from: marcusjb on 09 May, 2014, 12:28:18 pm
Quote from: menthel on 09 May, 2014, 10:44:31 am
Quote from: Ham on 09 May, 2014, 09:14:45 am
Sometimes legs are just too smart, it was a four day week but mine still knew it was Friday.

(Going in the opposite direction to menthel might have had something to do with it)

Just think of your journey home! I am not thinking about mine, it might be a little slower than my trip in.

I think you head about the same home way as me - sw to twickenham for me. I have just got home after some meetings in town.  You may be surprised to hear it was considerably slower than the journey in.

So much tree stuff in the air as well. Eyes and throat hurt.

I am SW20, same as Hatler, so similar direction to you Marcus. I will be continuing my experiments with using the drops I expect in an attempt to be a little more like an airbrake. I have not really cycled much on the drops before and over the past couple of weeks have been enjoying it!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 09 May, 2014, 01:28:46 pm
Drops really help in weather like today. I find myself doing miles on them. Justifies having a 'road bike'.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 09 May, 2014, 01:36:18 pm
Quote from: clarion on 09 May, 2014, 10:01:58 am
Never worth the effort of repairing a rare hole in a latex tube.

When I first had latex tubes I thought they were really difficult to repair. I used to diligently apply the glue then wait for it to cure and fitting a patch. Just like I did with butyl tubes.  Eventually I unlearned that technique simply apply a liberal amount of solution then quickly place the patch. Job done, much easier than butyl tubes.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 09 May, 2014, 01:38:37 pm
Quote from: hatler on 09 May, 2014, 01:28:46 pm
Drops really help in weather like today. I find myself doing miles on them. Justifies having a 'road bike'.

With the commuter out of action, I am using my "best bike" which has more compact handlebars than the genesis. I am comfortable on the drops of the RHM01's where as the ones on the 00 just seem too far away. I may look into getting a more "compact" bar for it, either another set of RHM01's or the FSA Omega compacts.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 09 May, 2014, 06:03:37 pm
As predicted, bloody miserable. Hunched over handlebars turning the legs over just to keep moving forward- the wind meant that any freewheeling led to coming to a halt very quickly!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 09 May, 2014, 07:03:53 pm
Oh was there a problem going home? I didn't notice
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Reg.T on 12 May, 2014, 08:47:03 am
After a weekend off the bike, it was a bright, mild, tailwind-assisted and flowy ride in through fairly heavy traffic.
Bliss. 8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 12 May, 2014, 10:21:03 am
Went for the longer, Richmond Park option. Enjoyed it but I haven't been cycling enough recently so am feeling the difference now!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 12 May, 2014, 10:23:28 am
Another tougher than normal morning. More depressing was that I was completely blown away by two other people on bikes, which doesn't happen too often (which is more a comment on how few people are going my way than how fast I am).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 12 May, 2014, 05:53:18 pm
That bloody headwind was still there! I nearly ground to a halt going up Kingston Road to pick the 00's back wheel up from Bright Cycles.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 12 May, 2014, 06:07:40 pm
Oh balls !  That reminds me, I meant to head to Bright Cycles this evening to get something but I'm still at my desk. Have to do it tomorrow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 12 May, 2014, 06:32:31 pm
Light winds and the sun came out, so I went for a loop through Seascale and down the coast to Holmrook on the way home*. Lovely day, and the bike was almost behaving itself. I think the threat of replacing it's frame yesterday got through and it's being more compliant ;D

This was the first test of the penny washers to bulk out the rear stays, and it seems to have worked - the wheel is still in the right place rather than rubbing on the chainstay, even after climbing up the 1:7 out of Gosforth :)


*For certain opposite direction versions of 'on the way home'
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 12 May, 2014, 08:39:11 pm
One of those days with the headwind on the way in and the way back. No matter which way I tried to travel it was there, waiting, always in my face like a lairy drunk wanting a fight. Since my bike is carved out of the heart of a neutron star that made for an energy-depleting experience. I'd not replaced the Nutella so I had to break out the secret stash of Ferrero Rocher that we'd been saving for any impromptu ambassadorial receptions. I'm screwed if a diplomatic missions drops by later.

Apologies to the lady cyclist I inadvertently stalked all the way from Streatham to South Croydon. I'm not a sexual pervert (you'll have to take my word for it), we just happened to be travelling about the same pace and hit every single red light (really, we'd obviously both angered the traffic light gods). I was a bit relieved when she turned off otherwise I figured I was going to hand myself in to a local police station.

There seemed to be a lot of confused French coach drivers for some reason. Perhaps blown to south London on the wind. I somehow managed to surf the edge of a rain band all the way down the A22. Almost. With a huge clap of thunder, it turned on the shower just as I fiddled with my keys for the porch.

On the plus side, my house smells better. We had some weird epoxy-based screed that claimed to be 'low odour' put down about a week ago. I'd hate to smell the normal odour stuff. Smelled like we'd invited flatulent vikings over for a week-long mead-and-feed session.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Palinurus on 12 May, 2014, 08:45:26 pm
Left the bike at home and walked because there's this 'walk to work' thing going on in the office.

It was pretty good, but I had to get up at 5 a.m. so that's probably my one walking commute for the year at least.

I hardly saw anyone else, those few I did see had a dog or two.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 12 May, 2014, 09:45:34 pm
Where have all the commuting bikes that I pass and fast people pass me gone?  I used to see many bikes on my sixteen mile journey between Bridgend and Radyr. I saw none today. Oh not quite I passed one who had was commuting from further in Cardiff avoiding the big hills in Radyr taking a flatter long cut so he does not count.

I am not the slowest commuter but nor am I fast I must be passed or pass people. Today's homeward ride was one hour and five minutes (14 3/4 mph). I should encounter riders.

 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris N on 13 May, 2014, 08:47:32 am
Nothing exciting.  But I have actually managed to ride in to work for the first time in two months.  Bloody lovely. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 13 May, 2014, 08:59:37 am
Plenty of traffic (although oddly not as much as usual through Collier's Wood/Tooting) but still a nice ride in. Happy to be back on the 00!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 13 May, 2014, 09:25:43 am
Quote from: chris n on 13 May, 2014, 08:47:32 am
Nothing exciting.  But I have actually managed to ride in to work for the first time in two months.  Bloody lovely. :)
:thumbsup:

Dry and no wind today (two days without any wind up here is almost unheard of!). Sub 20 minute inbound for the first time for a while :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 13 May, 2014, 09:47:16 am
^^^
"Inbound" you say.
Ladies & gentlemen,I give you.....

mcshroom missile :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 13 May, 2014, 10:00:54 am
'In muster' and 'Out Muster' are the standard terms here, but I prefer that phrasing :)

Anyway, considering where I work does that make me a WMD? :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 14 May, 2014, 08:52:22 am
Missed the rain yesterday and had a nice pootle (in every sense of the word!) in today. Even towing the boy in to breakfast club was no real chore for once!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 14 May, 2014, 11:16:05 am
What a beautiful morning that was.  :thumbsup:

My only concern is that the next few days will turn out to have been "The Summer".  To be followed, in the usual fashion, by six months of Autumn.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 14 May, 2014, 12:35:03 pm
Agreed. This morning was gorgeous, but I did get caught out ever so slightly on the second half of the run home yesterday. I was feeling all smug that I started in bright blue skies and that big grey lump in the distance wasn't really over where I was heading. How wrong I was.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Reg.T on 14 May, 2014, 01:15:18 pm
Yep, a beautiful morning for a ride in. Wasn't even spoiled when, approaching a large roundabout in lane-2-primary (where I could see I could negotiate it quickly), a car half-undertook me just on the approach and then started squeezing me over to the right at the entry and going round. A quick loud shout bought me some extra space, and I was content to leave it at that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 14 May, 2014, 06:32:57 pm
0 - 2 tonight.  In other words, I overtook no one, while two people overtook me.  Nothing unusual about that.  The only people I overtake these days are POBs on BSOs.
Anyway, that's not why I'm posting.
The second overtaker was riding fixed.  As I followed him up the hill to Selly Oak, I noticed that he seemed to be turning quite a large gear.
I asked him about it at the lights.  He quoted some sizes that I don't remember as they mean nothing to me, so I asked what that was in inches.
"About 102"
 :o

That's just mad.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonJo on 14 May, 2014, 09:04:37 pm
I was caught by Fast John on the way in. He started talking to me but I couldn't reply and just motioned for him to get on the front. I had all on just holding his wheel and was quite pleased when I had to turn off so I could have a blow.

Finished early so had a ride up to Lydgett Junction then down to Durham making a mega commute of 54 miles for me today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 15 May, 2014, 09:25:13 am
Quote from: Basil on 14 May, 2014, 06:32:57 pm
0 - 2 tonight.  In other words, I overtook no one, while two people overtook me.  Nothing unusual about that.  The only people I overtake these days are POBs on BSOs.
Anyway, that's not why I'm posting.
The second overtaker was riding fixed.  As I followed him up the hill to Selly Oak, I noticed that he seemed to be turning quite a large gear.
I asked him about it at the lights.  He quoted some sizes that I don't remember as they mean nothing to me, so I asked what that was in inches.
"About 102"
 :o

That's just mad.
I didn't know Teethgrinder had moved to Birmingham.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 15 May, 2014, 12:32:59 pm
Today was the first day this year I rode without a vest under my t-shirt.  A good decision, I was sweating when I arrived at work. At the moment midday the there is a cloudless blue sky here so I am looking forward to the ride home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 15 May, 2014, 01:12:15 pm
Took the long way on my (very occasional, now) commute.  Glorious!  Masses of cornflowers in Bridgehouse Meadows (between Old Kent Rd and Millwall), grebe in Shadwell Basin.  Nesting swans, coots and a cormorant on the Ornamental Canal, birds of all kinds singing in Wapping woods.  However, the warm weather seems to have got people all excited and some drivers seem to be slamming down hard on the accelerator. The secretary at work told me she always feels like driving faster when the sun comes out at last and has to strongly resist the temptation. Is this a common phenomenon? (Speaking as someone who hasn't driven a motor vehicle since 1984 and even then found resisting the temptation to push the works Ford transit minibus above 30 mph quite easy to resist as I preferred to keep my teeth in my jaw.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CJBrewer on 15 May, 2014, 02:12:47 pm
Quote from: jane on 15 May, 2014, 01:12:15 pm
The secretary at work told me she always feels like driving faster when the sun comes out at last and has to strongly resist the temptation. Is this a common phenomenon?

Yes. Just the same as when it's raining or foggy people drive too fast and too close to the car in front. Or when it's night time.  Or if it's Friday evening. Or Thursday. Or Monday morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 15 May, 2014, 05:44:09 pm
Quote from: Basil on 14 May, 2014, 06:32:57 pm
The second overtaker was riding fixed.  As I followed him up the hill to Selly Oak, I noticed that he seemed to be turning quite a large gear.
I asked him about it at the lights.  He quoted some sizes that I don't remember as they mean nothing to me, so I asked what that was in inches.
"About 102"
 :o

That's just mad.

Saw him again tonight and asked again.
52 x 12

 :o  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 15 May, 2014, 09:38:24 pm
Eh?
A 12t fixed sprocket?
I thought they only went down to 13.
Unless it's one of those Miche ones on a carrier or something similar? ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 15 May, 2014, 09:45:45 pm
I have no idea TG.  Just reporting what was said.  I think.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 15 May, 2014, 09:46:20 pm
52 x 12 would be about 115"!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 15 May, 2014, 09:51:34 pm
Suntour made a 12t fixed cog and supposedly made a matching lockring machined to give chain clearance (though I've never seen the lockring).

13t cogs are fairly common.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 16 May, 2014, 08:20:29 am
What a beautiful morning! Blue sky. Warm sun. Light mist on the fields. Birds shouting their heads off. I normally ride straight to work but this morning my Cateye said 11.3 instead of the usual 2.5. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 16 May, 2014, 08:54:44 am
Me too Guy. Up the hill, instead of down. 1.25 miles instead of .5 miles. I haven't done enough training this year for my 100-miler on Sunday. Oh well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 16 May, 2014, 09:24:32 am
Nice, sunny trip in but lots of poor quality cycling going on out there. Shame.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Phixie on 16 May, 2014, 11:23:54 am
Quote from: teethgrinder on 15 May, 2014, 09:38:24 pm
Eh?
A 12t fixed sprocket?
I thought they only went down to 13.
Unless it's one of those Miche ones on a carrier or something similar? ???

Yes, they do exist.  I've got a Suntour one as mentioned by LWAB and a cheapo one.  They need undercut lockrings for chain clearance and various people used to make them; from memory, my one is Villiers, but both cogs and lockrings are AFAIK no longer produced.  A 13T cog may benefit from such a lockring as well.

The Miche ones on the carrier are made from 13 - 18T, but the first of these is not common.  They are a lot cheaper than Shimano, but I recall Mal Volio formerly OTP experiencing concentricity issues with them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 16 May, 2014, 08:09:02 pm
Barely managed to get home today. I did 50 miles yesterday (morning commute and a big more on the way home), and coming home today, despite only a 5mph headwind, I just could not get my legs working. Not sure if I am going to do over 100m on the dun run.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 20 May, 2014, 09:23:06 am
Terrible traffic and millions of cyclists but after engaging pootle mode I had quite a nice spin in!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 20 May, 2014, 09:47:22 am
Came in through a very short section of Hyde Park from Knightsbridge station to Hyde Park corner this morning.  Have given up on the train in the morning (other than when the tube is on strike), as it is getting hopelessly crowded and I can hardly get a seat; I wouldn't mind so much but I fell over (non bike related) and whacked my knees, particularly the right hand one, at the weekend, so didn't fancy standing up for 30 minutes.  The tube, bless, does pretty much guarantee a seat, since I get on at the airport, worst case scenario being standing and resting on the padded bum section above the luggage (where I am stowing my covered Brompton anyway).

Instead of getting off at Hyde Park Corner, walking a short section by the hotel, and then going down Halkin Street and round the block to the office via Belgrave Square, I got off Knightsbridge, exited via Exit 1 into the park, and rode the short section down to Hyde Park Corner.

It's like a peleton in there though, huge numbers coming down the nice wide lanes, plus you can see the loads of cyclists on Rotten Row running parallel.

Can't work out a good way to turn right to get onto Grosvenor Place; the crossing at Wellington Arch is assuming you are going straight across and down Constitution Hill, whereas I wanted to turn right-ish.  It was a bit hairy sprinting across 5 lanes of oncoming traffic as the lights stopped for the bike crossing but then the traffic from Constitution Hill is given a green.  That might have to be some sort of two stage crossing, or I go across to the exit to Hyde Park Corner station, walk down the pavement as usual, and round the block as usual.

Might try getting off at South Kensington and going up Exhibition Road into the park but I'm a bit leery of the funny road layout there with the sare space thing; anyone have any experience?

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 20 May, 2014, 12:56:23 pm
Yesterday as I approached green traffic lights near a school I expected the car in front to pull off. Instead the door opened and a little one got out. I pull my brakes hard.  The front wheel stops but the back slides sideways.  Seeing this the Puncture Fairies from the Pontyclun branch leaped into action but were offended to see I had a new tyre and made a note to get me later.

On the way home I approach Pontyclun again and Puncture fairies notice the one that got away in the morning. They call the special engineering unit of the puncture fairy service in to help.  The locals are advised there was nothing much they could do with a new puncture resistant tyre. The bit of wood with as nail in it was in use by another team of puncture fairies.  They had studied the bike and spotted ancient rim tape. So the puncture fairies pulled at the corner where the aged velox overlapped and turned it upwards. I have a puncture.  I remove the tyre and carefully search it for a causes but can see nothing. I fit a new tube. I rode on for a mile and get a second puncture.  I think shall I put the other new tube into the tyre with a problem I cannot see or feel. I have had this nightmare scenario before so I just push the bike to the station and wait most of an hour for a train. I arrive home a hour and a half after expectation. A successful operation for the puncture fairies.

At home I inspect the tubes prior to patching and observe the failure location on the rim side of the tube a few centimetres away from the valve hole and the cause is known.
     
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 20 May, 2014, 02:14:51 pm
Forgot to mention it earlier, but I had a rather surreal commute home from work one day last week. Work has one spine road which connects to the outside world with lots of feeder roads coming onto/off it. I left work expecting to come off my feeder road and ride down the outside of the queue of traffic waiting to get off the site on the spine road, except that there wasn't a queue. Instead there was one security officer at the junction of feeder road with the spine who happily waved me out. The only vehicle on the spine road was a large black car which was heading in my direction but at least a hundred yards further up the hill. Dotted down the spine road were lots of security staff all done up in best bib and tucker apparently stopping any other traffic entering. At the bottom of the hill where I turn right onto the main road were further security. As I approached, they most helpfully jumped out onto the main road and brought the traffic to a halt in both directions for me. It was then that I began to smell a rat. It's not often that security will stop traffic like this, then spring to attention and salute as you sweep past. This was when I collected my escort of police motorcycle outriders... As I looked behind before turning left 50 yards down the road I noticed that the large black car that was now following seemed to have some sort of pennant fluttering from the front wing...

It was rather disappointing to discover that my motorcycle escort didn't seem to know my route home but continued straight on in front of the limo after I turned off. I've no idea who it was.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 20 May, 2014, 05:50:12 pm
Wow, that was a shit five minutes. Someone remind me, in future, to go straight home at 4 o'clock, or at least to go the back way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 21 May, 2014, 06:09:40 pm
Passing a line of 7 or 8 parked cars this morning (on my side), in a gap that was as good as it gets and at the point we started a good bet for getting through before stopping the oncoming car arrived. The same effect happens on the other side down the road. The whole thing relies on some give and take and general civility for anyone to get anywhere.
Car coming the other way reaches head of queue when I'm maybe 2 cars from the end (no comment on their speed). They then drive forward, to almost prevent us completing the pass and wind down the window and have a good old shout about rights of way. I bite my tounge while forming a reply about being civil and her being there sooner if she'd just slowed down for a couple of seconds.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 21 May, 2014, 06:11:47 pm
GN: The sun was out and I made it over the Cold Fell road on the way home
BN: Broke a spoke in the back wheel
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 22 May, 2014, 08:51:50 am
Weather was nice but traffic was horrible. It was compounded further by the Chelsea Flower Show whick can politely fuck right off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 22 May, 2014, 09:09:02 am
'Kinell :o I think there has been tectonic shift and upheaval in the last two weeks.

First ride in for just over a fortnight this morning. I'm damn sure that Quarry wood Road is steeper than it was before my holiday :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 22 May, 2014, 11:01:28 am
Rode from digs to the office on the single speed this morning for the first time in ages.

I'm sure the brake is stuck on or something... oh it isn't. Oh it's me then :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Otto on 22 May, 2014, 12:57:02 pm
First ride on the new folder.. Ternp24h... nice bike... Rubbish traffic!!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 23 May, 2014, 09:47:25 am
Petite DDG long-haired redhead PYT - oh to be 20 years younger; I might have to change my commuting times...:P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 23 May, 2014, 09:51:17 am
Having to break into(*) the office on arrival - 15s, using a tyre lever FFS :facepalm:

Office Manager, you might wish to address that issue...

(*) Bloody sparks, wiring the electric door release into a failed lighting ring
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 27 May, 2014, 08:54:08 am
Blimey, I’ve just met the guy I lent my tyre levers to a few months ago.  I was about to go all pissed off about him not putting himself out to try and meet me again, but it seems there was probably a little confusion about the where and especially, what time we had agreed.

Oh well.  I’ve now got a lot of tyre levers in my panier.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Smokey Bacon on 27 May, 2014, 09:13:15 am
Good ride int'office this morning. "Chapeau" to the guy I passed who had fashioned a rear mudflap out of an old Daz box. Had gone extremly limp in the conditions  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 27 May, 2014, 07:00:40 pm
Got knocked off my bike yesterday morning. Car was driven out of a junction and hit me. I was unconcious for a couple of minutes before an ambulance arrived. I'm OK. Cuts on my head, grazes on face, shoulder, hip & leg. Shoulder a bit sore. Bike has buckled front wheel. I haven't given it a full check yet so there could be other damage. Police got footage of the incident from a shop CCTV and are going to charge the driver (can't remember what with exactly). Been off work today as advised by hozzy doctor.

(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3764/14271897052_1c317c1dc9_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/nKacLy)
IMG_3229 (https://flic.kr/p/nKacLy) by The Pingus (https://www.flickr.com/people/36539950@N00/), on Flickr
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moultonaught on 27 May, 2014, 07:19:49 pm
Sorry to hear that Pingu . I had similar 8 years ago (without the loss of consciousness) and thought all damage was only temporary, but my shoulder is still not quite right, so do make sure you subsequently get things checked out properly... GWS.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 27 May, 2014, 07:25:09 pm
Gah!  Mr. P down.
Sorry to hear this, Pingu.  Hope the Hurty bits don't hurt for too long.
Get the bike well checked.  My last "Ride ended ambulance assisted" some years back was a T boneing from a side road and resulted in a chain stay failure several weeks later.  I hadn't prepared properly so was unable to get anything for it. 
I got 45 quid for a wheel rebuild, but after that there were more legal hoops than I could be arsed  with.

Get it well checked now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 May, 2014, 07:34:55 pm
Glad you're still with us.  Heal well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 27 May, 2014, 08:39:13 pm
nice glasses.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 27 May, 2014, 08:54:18 pm
Nice man.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ruth on 27 May, 2014, 09:21:55 pm
GWS Pingu.  Hope you heal quickly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 27 May, 2014, 10:02:12 pm
Fair play to the police getting the cctv footage, gws.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 27 May, 2014, 10:32:23 pm
Some of the water-filled potholes on the A23 through Streatham are so deep now that I spent more time worrying about being left-hooked by a U-boat than an X5.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimC on 27 May, 2014, 10:58:17 pm
Shit! GWS, Pingu.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 27 May, 2014, 11:00:54 pm
Quote from: ian on 27 May, 2014, 10:32:23 pm
Some of the water-filled potholes on the A23 through Streatham are so deep now that I spent more time worrying about being left-hooked by a U-boat than an X5.
It's the same between SE23 and E17 - Weren't E17 a band?........
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 27 May, 2014, 11:44:49 pm
No, they only thought they were.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 28 May, 2014, 08:35:19 am
Quote from: Jurek on 27 May, 2014, 11:00:54 pm
Quote from: ian on 27 May, 2014, 10:32:23 pm
Some of the water-filled potholes on the A23 through Streatham are so deep now that I spent more time worrying about being left-hooked by a U-boat than an X5.
It's the same between SE23 and E17 - Weren't E17 a band?........

The voyage between EC1N and CR3 was a Cousteau-ean experience. I think I saw shipwrecks in Norbury and a multi-tentacled sea monster in Croydon. I'm sure I saw the Nautilus waiting patiently at the lights in Brixton. I think Captain Nemo has a sub-woofer in his boot.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 28 May, 2014, 08:47:55 am
Quote from: ian on 28 May, 2014, 08:35:19 am
Quote from: Jurek on 27 May, 2014, 11:00:54 pm
Quote from: ian on 27 May, 2014, 10:32:23 pm
Some of the water-filled potholes on the A23 through Streatham are so deep now that I spent more time worrying about being left-hooked by a U-boat than an X5.
It's the same between SE23 and E17 - Weren't E17 a band?........

The voyage between EC1N and CR3 was a Cousteau-ean experience. I think I saw shipwrecks in Norbury and a multi-tentacled sea monster in Croydon. I'm sure I saw the Nautilus waiting patiently at the lights in Brixton. I think Captain Nemo has a sub-woofer in his boot rear cargo hold.
Surely.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 28 May, 2014, 08:54:11 am
Major chaos at the lights Bournbrook Rd and Bristol Rd this morning.  A mallard was wandering about the junction with her chicks in tow.  I was quite pleased with the way the traffic behaved, everyone was stopped and no-one tried to squeeze round them or anything.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 28 May, 2014, 09:04:32 am
GWS Pingu!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Smokey Bacon on 28 May, 2014, 09:09:22 am
Damn! hope you heal quick mate!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 28 May, 2014, 09:39:21 am
Heal up soon pingu. Looks nasty. Glad the police have paid attention to solving the crime (not that it helps you heal up much!)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 28 May, 2014, 10:45:24 am
Thanks all  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 28 May, 2014, 11:04:36 am
Yes, heal well and quickly Mr Pingu. Did the chap stop at the scene? Or did he flee?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 28 May, 2014, 11:13:36 am
Adding a GWS to Pingu, too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RJ on 29 May, 2014, 11:55:18 pm
Pingu, that looks sore.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 30 May, 2014, 11:47:54 am
Quote from: SJSBrompton on 20 May, 2014, 09:47:22 am
Might try getting off at South Kensington and going up Exhibition Road into the park but I'm a bit leery of the funny road layout there with the sare space thing; anyone have any experience?

Easy as pie and very cyclist friendly.
Ride from the station up to the traffic lights by the Ismaili Centre (I'm not sure if you can ride past the bookshop and the crepe restaurant, but you can drive the opposite way, so I suspect it's two way). If not, walk past Paul and hop onto the road there, ride around the corner to the lights by the Thai restaurant, take a left to the aforementioned lights.

Straight on and up the road from there.

I do this every single day and apart from the very occasional muppet who gets into the wrong lane and finds himself on the wrong side of the road facing a lane of oncoming traffic, it's usually fuss-free.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 30 May, 2014, 02:44:11 pm
another GWS Pingu.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wowbagger on 01 June, 2014, 09:15:32 pm
I have only just become properly acquainted with the Pinjury. GWS!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 02 June, 2014, 06:28:47 pm
Ta again  :)

Today I cycled to work for the first time since the off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 June, 2014, 06:52:05 pm
Excellent!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 02 June, 2014, 06:54:53 pm
Yay :thumbsup:

I did a shorter commute today (drove past the big steep downhill) and used the Trek in fixed mode. Getting there slowly with it. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 03 June, 2014, 07:21:50 pm
A wasp flew down my shirt and t i cK l e D  mE iNto sO me Ve R y ErRa TiC cYcL iNG.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 June, 2014, 08:05:17 pm
Erotic cycling with a wasp down your shirt?  I've heard of urtication, but...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 03 June, 2014, 08:51:00 pm
I was out today for electrolysis, which takes place in a place between Dorking and Horsham. I rode across from here, via Newdigate, and then rode down to Horsham to get the train back. Some sharp little hills matched with very fast descents, but all on a twisty and busy A24.

The point of note, apart from the fact that my legs worked? Apart from one knob in a Jag, EVERYBODY, every driver that is, despite crossing solid white lines when I was doing 35mph, treated me with courtesy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 03 June, 2014, 09:00:21 pm
Quote from: clarion on 03 June, 2014, 08:05:17 pm
Erotic cycling with a wasp down your shirt?  I've heard of urtication, but...

Wasps aren't actually allowed to sting me. There's an agreement. Bees are signatories too. I also have a separate treaty with crows and allied corvids that they can't land on my head without prior agreement.

No treaty with swans or dolphins though (next time you see a swan think is that just a dolphin's hat). Unreasonable both. Though both less likely to end up down your shirt while cycling through Battersea.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gattopardo on 03 June, 2014, 09:16:00 pm
Quote from: ian on 03 June, 2014, 07:21:50 pm
A wasp flew down my shirt and t i cK l e D  mE iNto sO me Ve R y ErRa TiC cYcL iNG.

I read that as skirt....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gattopardo on 03 June, 2014, 09:16:48 pm
Quote from: Pingu on 02 June, 2014, 06:28:47 pm
Ta again  :)

Today I cycled to work for the first time since the off.

Congrats hope you are healing well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 03 June, 2014, 10:01:15 pm
A dolphin can break your arm with their wings, you know.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 03 June, 2014, 11:44:58 pm
Your arm has wings?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 03 June, 2014, 11:49:23 pm
Rode past the One Direction gig chaos tonight at what seemed like the peak of it.  It was quite good, could sense the atmosphere even going past on the road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 03 June, 2014, 11:51:36 pm
From recent news reports, couldn't you smell the atmosphere?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 June, 2014, 08:11:04 am
Quote from: Steph on 03 June, 2014, 11:44:58 pm
Your arm has wings?
Bingo wings
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 04 June, 2014, 11:16:55 am
Quote from: sg37409 on 03 June, 2014, 11:49:23 pm
Rode past the One Direction gig chaos tonight at what seemed like the peak of it.  It was quite good, could sense the atmosphere even going past on the road.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-edinburgh-east-fife-27689000
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 04 June, 2014, 11:22:05 am
My first full commute on fixed this morning. Going down the (normally 50+km/h freewheel) hill into Beckermet was a bit scary and I did use the brakes, but otherwise not much slower than with gears. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 04 June, 2014, 12:01:21 pm
Got caught in a down pour and sheltered in an underpass, the drain on the slope was blocked so the rainwater started pouring into the gully so I cleared the drain of leaves with my foot and watched the flood drain away. satisfying.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 04 June, 2014, 01:52:55 pm
Quote from: Pingu on 04 June, 2014, 11:16:55 am
Quote from: sg37409 on 03 June, 2014, 11:49:23 pm
Rode past the One Direction gig chaos tonight at what seemed like the peak of it.  It was quite good, could sense the atmosphere even going past on the road.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-edinburgh-east-fife-27689000

All the chaos and excitement I saw was all around murrayfield. The motorway was totally free.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 04 June, 2014, 09:45:34 pm
I nearly went over the handlebars this morning, but fortunately managed to turn it into a sudden stop followed swiftly by a side fall.
Dunno exactly why, operator error I suspect. Could have done without the spectator (either look away, or ask if I'm alright, eh? Don't just stare at me).
Broke my mirror and a perfectly good Lezyne light though, and got a few more bruises.

Pillock.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 05 June, 2014, 08:59:20 am
Nice weather and nice cycle in apart from the bit where my new Rubino Pros tried to kill me. Slowing down, mostly front brake and added a little bit of back in- this led to the back tyre losing traction on the damp road. Not what I expected but managed to stay upright. This has not happened with either the gatorskins or ultrasports I had on before.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 05 June, 2014, 09:01:03 am
Have your new tyres been ridden enough to be 'scrubbed in'?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 05 June, 2014, 09:13:28 am
Quote from: LittleWheelsandBig on 05 June, 2014, 09:01:03 am
Have your new tyres been ridden enough to be 'scrubbed in'?

First ride. I will be a little careful on them for a while. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 05 June, 2014, 09:16:12 am
New rubber has a release compound on it, to stop it sticking to the mold. Scrubbing off the release compound means the tyre can actually stick to the road. It is possible to remove the release compound for straight-line riding but not for hard cornering EDIT if you don't lean the bike while scrubbing in the tyres. This can mean a nasty surprise halfway through a fast corner.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 05 June, 2014, 09:42:50 am
Oooo. I didn't know that. Thank you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 05 June, 2014, 09:44:41 am
Gorgeous morning !!  And for the first time in about three months I've made it to Thursday and have cycled to work every day.  I'm feeling virtuous.  Better than that, I've encountered no numpties all week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 05 June, 2014, 09:46:23 am
Quote from: LittleWheelsandBig on 05 June, 2014, 09:16:12 am
New rubber has a release compound on it, to stop it sticking to the mold. Scrubbing off the release compound means the tyre can actually stick to the road. It is possible to remove the release compound for straight-line riding but not for hard cornering. This can mean a nasty surprise halfway through a fast corner.

Ah. That might explain something that happened a few years back (20?)  that fundamentally changed my attitude to cornering fast.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 05 June, 2014, 09:51:49 am
Quote from: LittleWheelsandBig on 05 June, 2014, 09:16:12 am
New rubber has a release compound on it, to stop it sticking to the mold. Scrubbing off the release compound means the tyre can actually stick to the road. It is possible to remove the release compound for straight-line riding but not for hard cornering. This can mean a nasty surprise halfway through a fast corner.

Well I was 10k into their first ride and going in a straight line. I will ride easily the next couple of days and avoid all cornering! ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 05 June, 2014, 10:05:31 am
Edit to my original post about leaning the bike while riding gentle bends
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 05 June, 2014, 11:14:41 am
Or some fine sandpaper for a few revolutions.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 06 June, 2014, 10:32:24 am
Nice one in this morning. Weather was pleasant and the roads not too bad. I took the opportunity to spin gently in and enjoy myself. Unfortunately I forgot that I had a meeting at 9am and turned up 10 mins late in my cycling kit rather than in normal, human clothes!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 06 June, 2014, 10:53:17 am
Bingo !   Full house. First one since early Feb.

[tra la la]Oh what a beautiful morning.[/tra la la]

What's more, this has been a week of virtually no numptiness and two epic drafts, both well over a mile long at up to 40mph. And I managed to dodge the rain on Wednesday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dibdib on 06 June, 2014, 12:51:43 pm
First bike commute here since $deity-knows-when, spurred on by beautiful weather: sunny, almost no breeze, not oppressively warm.

I've never got into the habit of it because it's an annoyingly fiddly distance (5km each way). Too far to walk without sacrificing my lie in, not far enough to warrant lycra/getting sweaty/showering at work, but I find cycling in normal clothes uncomfortable.

I think I need to experiment a bit more, perhaps using Don Draper's drawer of shirts (http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Fp8a_LyRSnc/TaH7_PA601I/AAAAAAAABRc/MPtYTmTXwK4/s1600/DraperShirts2_web.jpg) as an inspiration.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 06 June, 2014, 01:06:24 pm
Quote from: Dibdib on 06 June, 2014, 12:51:43 pm
I've never got into the habit of it because it's an annoyingly fiddly distance (5km each way). Too far to walk without sacrificing my lie in, not far enough to warrant lycra/getting sweaty/showering at work, but I find cycling in normal clothes uncomfortable.

If I had a commute like that, I'd get a CLWB 'bent, and put a cheap electric assist on it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 06 June, 2014, 01:21:26 pm
Singlespeed with a chain-guard works well with civvies for me, as long as the route isn't too hilly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 06 June, 2014, 02:52:06 pm
It was sunny.

(https://scontent-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/t1.0-9/10402830_10152406709681839_2548910272723660258_n.jpg)

Last night I failed, sort-of-on-purpose, to organise a lift in.  And they've fubar'd the buses... so no choice, really.

(https://scontent-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/t1.0-9/1526253_10152406709806839_8603229073891096466_n.jpg)

Less than 7 miles each way, about 3 oh-shit-I'm-going-to-die passes.  That's pretty good for the B1228, especially given how long I was on it.  Yegods I'm slow, although not quite as slow now that the tyres have been topped up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 06 June, 2014, 04:26:38 pm
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 06 June, 2014, 02:52:06 pm
Last night I failed, sort-of-on-purpose, to organise a lift in.  And they've fubar'd the buses... so no choice, really.

 :thumbsup:

Quote
(https://scontent-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/t1.0-9/1526253_10152406709806839_8603229073891096466_n.jpg)

Are you sure that's not the moon?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 06 June, 2014, 05:11:57 pm
Quote from: Kim on 06 June, 2014, 04:26:38 pm
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 06 June, 2014, 02:52:06 pm
Last night I failed, sort-of-on-purpose, to organise a lift in.  And they've fubar'd the buses... so no choice, really.

 :thumbsup:

Quote
(https://scontent-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/t1.0-9/1526253_10152406709806839_8603229073891096466_n.jpg)

Are you sure that's not the moon?
Silly Kim. Everyone knows the moon is yellow. It's not true about the green cheese, it's cheddar. That is Mars - you can see the caramel and the chocolate.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 06 June, 2014, 05:40:31 pm
The weather was too good to rush home! Shame the wind wasn't so nice...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 09 June, 2014, 10:11:34 am
Commuted on the tandem solo.

I'm really trying to get the cockpit set up right but it is useful for blocking whole lanes given it's as long as a small car.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonJo on 09 June, 2014, 07:13:27 pm
It was eerily quiet - both ways. Where is everyone?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 09 June, 2014, 07:19:02 pm
Conditions just about perfect. All the rain fell during the working day and the sun came out for a couple hours to dry the roads before I headed home.

(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-jNQxUgfi6gg/U5X5vRq_PhI/AAAAAAAAGIM/koKRTJF1fS4/w737-h553-no/IMG_20140609_171826)

With the detour on my way home it was around 45km which was my longest and hilliest ride on the fixed to date. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wowbagger on 09 June, 2014, 11:00:54 pm
Two incidents amused me today.

The first was when I had a chance conversation with one Sara Hadden. Sara used to work in the SBC Road Safety Office in charge of Bikeability. I had a brief chat with her, on her way to work, her helmet neatly hanging from her handlebars.

The second, this afternoon, whilst I was driving home from my teaching session, involved a boy in Southend High uniform cycling along a fairly busy road, no hands. The reason he was riding no-handed? He was donning a hi-viz bib and had to take both hands off the bars so that he could pull it over his head.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tom M on 10 June, 2014, 11:29:29 am
Is it possible to ride the 15 miles home after the body of the pedal has parted company with the spindle? Yes

Is it very convenient or comfortable? No

(http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Superted_photos/Pedal_zpsa43ee8d5.jpg) (http://s81.photobucket.com/user/Superted_photos/media/Pedal_zpsa43ee8d5.jpg.html)

Weird dual sided Look/SPD pedals, so cleat is engaged on SPD side. Would fit over spindle, but had to try and keep pressure inwards with left leg as I rode. Hills and out the saddle riding not advised.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 10 June, 2014, 04:50:16 pm
Bit hot for rushing about, so I had a slow dawdle home. Some impressive clouds have been gathering all day; I reckon someone's in for a good ducking.

(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3844/14390160002_1c282ec2df_z.jpg) (https://www.flickr.com/photos/30024450@N04/14390160002/)

That was the second of three parks I rode through. It was a commute of parks and quiet byways and back alleys, until I automatically took the turning for home and went through the horrible crossroads rather than down Acorn Back Alley.

Wasn't too bad, though - once the BMW driver had worked out which way he was going, and I'd overtaken the Mini Cooper which pulled out on me, then proceeded at about 2 miles an hour. I got to the head of the queue just as the light turned green, and rode straight over.

Weird moment in the street when a car in front of me slowed for no reason that I could see. "Fucking idiot," I thought, they're going to pull into that space and haven't bothered indicating". Then the seagull finished hopping across the road in front of them :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 10 June, 2014, 06:48:29 pm
Dear moron,

Hang on let me qualify that

Dear trackie bottom wearing, chav esq, spitting moron,

The reasons why I knew you'd been chasing me for a little while where many, let me explain.

You were panting like a steam train with a broken piston, like you were struggling for your last breath.

Your bike sounded like a broken tractor with a wheel missing towing a crate of rusty spanners.

So yes you'd made some effort to get past me for some stupid reason only known to you while we were going down a hill.

So why do you think I made you look like a f**king idiot (your words).

Well it could be to do with my bike has many gears, most of which I wasn't using, and I'm not so unfit from the abuses of smoking crack which is what I've assumed given how much you gobbed onto the road as you passed me. My also has a chain that has been lubricated recently unlike yours that was so orange even ginger kids mocked it, it actually looked like you'd left it in the garden since the last ice age.

What's happened here is I used one of the bigger rings in the middle and actually pedaled (going down a hill see) which is how come i then overtook you and left you miles behind without trying.

I'm imagining you found the chap on a tandem solo funny and wanted to impress your mates who I could also hear struggling to keep up.

Do try harder next time won't you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 10 June, 2014, 06:53:30 pm
Hmm, got most of the way home and realised I'd left the house keys on my desk :facepalm:

Commute ended up rather longer than planned :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 10 June, 2014, 07:54:41 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 10 June, 2014, 06:53:30 pm
Hmm, got most of the way home and realised I'd left the house keys on my desk :facepalm:

Commute ended up rather longer than planned :-[

Having had that happen to me, I now have my bike keys, house keys and work keys all on the same ring.
If I leave my house keys on my desk, I can't unlock my bike. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: grani on 10 June, 2014, 08:20:15 pm
Quote from: Basil on 10 June, 2014, 07:54:41 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 10 June, 2014, 06:53:30 pm
Hmm, got most of the way home and realised I'd left the house keys on my desk :facepalm:

Commute ended up rather longer than planned :-[

Having had that happen to me, I now have my bike keys, house keys and work keys all on the same ring.
If I leave my house keys on my desk, I can't unlock my bike.
Same here. Except I still managed to get home once without my keys as I had unlocked my bike, taken tools out to tighten my seatpost and left my keys on the floor of the car park. Luckily I called the building management and they retrieved the keys and I was saved.
I recommend keeping the keys in the same ring but is not a substitute for a working brain.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 10 June, 2014, 09:03:10 pm
Quote from: Basil on 10 June, 2014, 07:54:41 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 10 June, 2014, 06:53:30 pm
Hmm, got most of the way home and realised I'd left the house keys on my desk :facepalm:

Commute ended up rather longer than planned :-[

Having had that happen to me, I now have my bike keys, house keys and work keys all on the same ring.
If I leave my house keys on my desk, I can't unlock my bike. 

I don't lock my bike at work* so that won't work unfortunately. The keys are all on the same ring, but I got hurried out of the building as it closed and I forgot to put them in my bag**.


*My bike is stored behind security fences, guard dogs and armed police :D
**For once I wasn't wearing a cycle jersey so I had no pockets which I'd normally put the keys in
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 11 June, 2014, 10:31:08 am
I saw lots of bunny rabbits today, as usual. I cursed the leaden trekking bike, each noisy pedal revolution enfuriated me (definite front mech adjustment required along with strange high-pitched clicks which obviously don't occur when I turn the cranks by hand), and I gave up struggling and span slowly into work. I'm waiting for some inner tubes for my 70's racer, then it's back on that for the forseeable future hopefully.

I think the hatred of the practical but stodgy trekking bike was largely mental this morning, plus I am convinced that the racer is the best thing since my boyhood Raleigh Arena.

Then I forgot to collect my towel from the drying room before showering, and had to get dressed back into my sweaty top and shorts to fetch it, and I was practically dry by the time I got back to the shower room.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 11 June, 2014, 10:34:01 am
As Riding up to the swan roundabout in Yardley I noticed that the traffic was backed up and I could see the outline of Police cars. As I pulled onto the roundabout that was being contolled by the police I saw the reason why.

Someone had driven there aygo up the side of a saloon car, and was now wedged sideways on up on two wheels across the side of the saloon.

As I was waved through by the copper he turned to me to say

"Take care mate they can't drive round here"

While it was probably quite scary for those involved in the crash I still hadn't stopped giggling when I got to the bike shed at work some 10 minutes later.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 11 June, 2014, 11:46:01 am
Quote from: davelodwig on 11 June, 2014, 10:34:01 am
As I was waved through by the copper he turned to me to say

"Take care mate they can't drive round here"

They're not wrong.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 11 June, 2014, 03:15:06 pm
You can tell where all the bl**dy traffic on this road in that there London comes from.  It was deserted out here for about an hour while most of the taxi drivers were protesting in Whitehall.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 11 June, 2014, 09:10:11 pm
lovely weather nice breeze shifting some of the air pollution away from the road today.
Had a discussion with a BMW driver about taking primary position. The sequence of events was this one:
1. take primary to avoid parked cars in Bethnal Green Road eastbound, east London
2. at this point  (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.52416,-0.073342,3a,75y,15.35h,66.93t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1sPz4vbDQte0xNHjZ7C7p8gg!2e0)  there are no parked cars for 30- 35 meters as its prohibited (eastbound) followed by more car parking ( although on the google aerial view, no cars are using the parking space).

It took between 4 and 5 seconds to cover this gap (according to cam footage). The question is would you have relinquished primary for this time interval to let him pass? The driver's wife hinted that it would be more considerate, and the driver himself didn't like my lack of courtesy so decided to stick to my rear wheel with a few cm to spare.

Arnaud.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 11 June, 2014, 09:54:22 pm
Nice long row of bike stands there. What's more they appear to be actually spaced properly so two bikes can be parked next to each other without handlebars, panniers and so on clashing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 12 June, 2014, 09:16:17 am
Quote from: Arno on 11 June, 2014, 09:10:11 pm
It took between 4 and 5 seconds to cover this gap (according to cam footage). The question is would you have relinquished primary for this time interval to let him pass? The driver's wife hinted that it would be more considerate, and the driver himself didn't like my lack of courtesy so decided to stick to my rear wheel with a few cm to spare.

Arnaud.
No
Not for 4-5 seconds, too much risk that another car would try to nip through, just as I had to move out again to avoid the parked cars.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 12 June, 2014, 10:34:58 am
In my haste to get to work for a 9am meeting, I managed to decorate the side of a van. I guess the blame was 50;50 as he was going quite quick and I was filtering.

My beloved ciocc seems quite damaged and the wheel is really buckled.

Right side is a bit painful all over. sigh
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 12 June, 2014, 10:59:55 am
Oops.  GWS.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 12 June, 2014, 09:51:22 pm

Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 11 June, 2014, 09:54:22 pm
Nice long row of bike stands there. What's more they appear to be actually spaced properly so two bikes can be parked next to each other without handlebars, panniers and so on clashing.
:) very true....


Quote from: mrcharly on 12 June, 2014, 09:16:17 am
Quote from: Arno on 11 June, 2014, 09:10:11 pm
It took between 4 and 5 seconds to cover this gap (according to cam footage). The question is would you have relinquished primary for this time interval to let him pass? The driver's wife hinted that it would be more considerate, and the driver himself didn't like my lack of courtesy so decided to stick to my rear wheel with a few cm to spare.

Arnaud.
No
Not for 4-5 seconds, too much risk that another car would try to nip through, just as I had to move out again to avoid the parked cars.
My thoughts as well. It sometimes seems to take people 2 or 3 seconds to register a change of position of a bike on the road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 13 June, 2014, 07:24:49 pm
Riding down CS7 when a car pulled up alongside me indicating left. It was too late for evasive action so I kept going while bellowing 'Stay where you are'. Those of you who've been lucky enough to go offroading know my voice can be suitably loud on occasion.

After I'd made it safely past him, another cyclist (who'd presumably been behind me and hence had more time to react) said 'I went down the outside'. He may or may not have been being smug or offering 'advice', I don't know, but I replied that I'd not had that choice.

It might have been one of you buggers, he had a Carradice saddlebag...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Crock of Gold on 14 June, 2014, 12:32:40 pm
I first posted on ACF in Autumn 2007 when I first started commuting 30 miles both ways from SW London (Zone 5) into EC1, on a 2nd hand sirrus specialized. I said I was happy with being a utilitarian and slow and helmeted and flat-pedalled cyclist in cheap Tesco's clothes, who never drank alcohol whilst pedalling. Yesterday, having arrived home after 200 commuting miles for the working -week on a 44x16 fixed cooper sebring, with a spare viva pista in the shed, walz capped, Timbuktu bagged and 3 pints in my tummy, I realised I was still slow. :-(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 16 June, 2014, 01:16:45 pm
"You don't get faster, it just gets easier"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 16 June, 2014, 01:23:05 pm
I'm finding that each day I commute I seem to be raising my top speed on the fixed. 56km/h today (~170rpm) Pretty sure I don't want to go much faster than that though it was getting slightly uncomfortable.

Commuting times now seem to be similar fixed/free/geared to within a minute or two.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 16 June, 2014, 02:30:55 pm
First ride in to the new job this morning - 18km from Victoria to Teddington (http://www.strava.com/activities/154245950).

Lovely!

I largely followed Wascally Weasel's excellent advice (https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=82845.msg1693339#msg1693339) and stuck to the quieter back roads as far as possible, though there was one bit where the GPS signal went screwy (I was following a track on my Edge 510), so I went off piste and ended up on the South Circular for a bit. Had another couple of other minor diversions where I missed turns or couldn't quite fathom the road layout, but pretty plain sailing really. I can't imagine the main road routes would be any quicker when you factor in the traffic. Turning right into Battersea Park as you come off Chelsea Bridge is a bit interesting though.

The section through Richmond Park was just glorious. Passed a huge herd of deer. No dogs in pursuit.

And when I got here, I discovered they have excellent facilities - including a decent shower about 30 seconds walk from my desk. Plus I have a view of Teddington Lock from my desk. Which is nice.

Shame I'm only going to be here for two months!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 16 June, 2014, 02:34:17 pm
Nice for the summer though citoyen. Congratulations on the new job :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 16 June, 2014, 02:57:47 pm
Cheers!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 16 June, 2014, 03:04:58 pm
This mornings commute revealed that my face stuffing fest of the past few weeks, along with the subsequent increase in weight has left me a ruined mess. Bum.

As for turning right from Chelsea Bridge to Battersea park it always looks a bit hairy- the traffic is usually flowing fairly well in the mornings and there are lots of bikes going into town too. Its a turn I would take very carefully!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 16 June, 2014, 05:03:09 pm
I'm knackered. I have a headache. There is a headwind blowing.
Not really feeling like tackling the ride home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 16 June, 2014, 05:05:23 pm
Late for a meeting - pedalling hard on the downhill. Hit all the lights on green, no opposing traffic on the right turn. Fast run into the right hander and over the roundabout and dumped the bike in my office instead of the bike shed because I was a few minutes over time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 16 June, 2014, 06:08:52 pm
And home with a tailwind, wheeeeeeee!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PhilO on 16 June, 2014, 07:23:26 pm
My slightly longer than usual commute home became slightly longer again, thanks to 'Jerry'. (http://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/news/gwentnews/11280472._WWII_bomb__found_at_Newport_store/?ref=var_0)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 16 June, 2014, 09:33:16 pm
First commute, or indeed cycle of any kind, for a month (for the umpteenth time of late). My legs hurts. But I'm cycling tomorrow dammit. I'm not sitting in the car with weather this nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 17 June, 2014, 09:13:51 am
Quote from: citoyen on 16 June, 2014, 02:30:55 pm
First ride in to the new job this morning - 18km from Victoria to Teddington (http://www.strava.com/activities/154245950).

Lovely!

I largely followed Wascally Weasel's excellent advice (https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=82845.msg1693339#msg1693339) and stuck to the quieter back roads as far as possible, though there was one bit where the GPS signal went screwy (I was following a track on my Edge 510), so I went off piste and ended up on the South Circular for a bit. Had another couple of other minor diversions where I missed turns or couldn't quite fathom the road layout, but pretty plain sailing really. I can't imagine the main road routes would be any quicker when you factor in the traffic. Turning right into Battersea Park as you come off Chelsea Bridge is a bit interesting though.

The section through Richmond Park was just glorious. Passed a huge herd of deer. No dogs in pursuit.

And when I got here, I discovered they have excellent facilities - including a decent shower about 30 seconds walk from my desk. Plus I have a view of Teddington Lock from my desk. Which is nice.

Shame I'm only going to be here for two months!

Jealous  :'(.  I work near Victoria, and live near Teddington.  Have to trudge into Central London after my nice local job in Kingston disappeared.  We might develop technology in this country via academic institutions, but getting the funding to production is a bugger.  Ended up selling the IP to the Americans.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 17 June, 2014, 09:27:20 am
I saw a little deer I think, up ahead on the road, plus the usual bunny rabbits. I took it easy on the trekking monster and made it up out of Almondsbury OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Crock of Gold on 17 June, 2014, 09:41:04 am
Quote from: citoyen on 16 June, 2014, 02:30:55 pm
First ride in to the new job this morning - 18km from Victoria to Teddington (http://www.strava.com/activities/154245950).

Lovely!

I largely followed Wascally Weasel's excellent advice (https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=82845.msg1693339#msg1693339) and stuck to the quieter back roads as far as possible, though there was one bit where the GPS signal went screwy (I was following a track on my Edge 510), so I went off piste and ended up on the South Circular for a bit. Had another couple of other minor diversions where I missed turns or couldn't quite fathom the road layout, but pretty plain sailing really. I can't imagine the main road routes would be any quicker when you factor in the traffic. Turning right into Battersea Park as you come off Chelsea Bridge is a bit interesting though.

The section through Richmond Park was just glorious. Passed a huge herd of deer. No dogs in pursuit.

And when I got here, I discovered they have excellent facilities - including a decent shower about 30 seconds walk from my desk. Plus I have a view of Teddington Lock from my desk. Which is nice.

Shame I'm only going to be here for two months!

Not a bad route. That bit from RP, Roehampton Gate, through Ham Gate, to Ham Common and Teddington Lock is just glorious. You get used to the right turn in Battersea Park from Chelsea Bridge - I've been doing it most days for the last few weeks going home. Just have to be assertive and take primary once you've reached the brow of the bridge.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 17 June, 2014, 12:28:16 pm
Today I got my first squirt of water of this year out of the window of a van at me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 17 June, 2014, 12:36:21 pm
Quote from: Crock of Gold on 17 June, 2014, 09:41:04 am
That bit from RP, Roehampton Gate, through Ham Gate, to Ham Common and Teddington Lock is just glorious.

Isn't it just. Not so many deer today though.

Quote
You get used to the right turn in Battersea Park from Chelsea Bridge

It helped today that the lights changed on the pedestrian crossing just as I was coming off the bridge, leaving a gap in the traffic. It also helped that I was a bit better prepared for it - it came on me slightly by surprise yesterday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 17 June, 2014, 12:39:26 pm
Nice trip in despite the wind. All quite good fun really.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 17 June, 2014, 03:46:33 pm
Today I have commuted* to work on my bike for the first time in almost 15 years.

It's predominately downhill out bound with the prevailing westerly on my back & unsurprisingly predominately up hill into a headwind on the way home.

* 12km each way,a distance imo  that  just about manages to avoid embarrassment as being described as a commute
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 17 June, 2014, 03:56:07 pm
12km each way is a perfectly sensible commute (mines just under 9km each way) :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 17 June, 2014, 04:07:04 pm
Purely for interest I've checked the distance of my previous commuting route.
8km each way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 17 June, 2014, 07:05:20 pm
My commute would only be c9.5 miles round trip if I took the most direct route, but I haven't done that for a couple of years now.  My most used route is still only 13.3 round trip.  Other routes exist, but depend on my leaving the house early, so not much used atm.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 18 June, 2014, 08:27:15 am
Waiting to turn right onto Ampthill Road yesterday afternoon a white van coming from the right stopped about 70 metres short of the junction, almost opposite some parked cars, and flashed his lights. I pulled out and slowly rolled towards him thinking "what's he up to?" An old lady with a zimmer frame appeared and very slowly crossed the road. WVM had stopped a whole queue of traffic to let an old lady cross the road! :thumbsup: Now there's something you don't see every day.

Somebody replaced my legs overnight. The ride in took 61 seconds less than the average for the year so far, and 21 seconds less than the previous best. And I didn't even seem to be trying!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Crock of Gold on 18 June, 2014, 09:28:59 am
This morning Jenny Jones fell off her bike as she leant over to kiss her partner bye-bye. Heavy panniers pulled her down. Some bruises.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 18 June, 2014, 09:34:30 am
Quote from: Basil on 17 June, 2014, 07:05:20 pm
My commute would only be c9.5 miles round trip if I took the most direct route, but I haven't done that for a couple of years now.  My most used route is still only 13.3 round trip.  Other routes exist, but depend on my leaving the house early, so not much used atm.

My most recent was about 14km each way, all in heavy traffic. Like Basil, I have longer, preferred, versions but life always seems to get in the way. My favourite was when I lived in Woodford and worked in central London. That was about 20km, depending on route chosen.  I worked for a while in Bexleyheath and had a 60km round trip, including the Woolwich Ferry. I think  if I lived and worked somewhere more rural then a longer ride would be ideal but a long commute in London, with so much stopping and starting, can be quite wearing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moultonaught on 18 June, 2014, 09:53:02 am
My new commute is a mile ride from home to the station and then just over a mile from Marylebone to the office. Very pleasant (and brief) this morning. When everything is more established I might leave the train one station early on the way home and ride the phoenix trail from Princes Risborough home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jimini on 18 June, 2014, 10:26:31 am
Quote from: Redlight on 18 June, 2014, 09:34:30 am

My favourite was when I lived in Woodford and worked in central London. That was about 20km, depending on route chosen.  <snip>

I've just moved to South Woodford (I work in WC1); would be keen to hear of any route suggestions you may have, Redlight (or anyone else in the vicinity for that matter)? I've got three so far:

1) Woodford Road > Green Man > Leytonstone > Leyton > Eastway > Viccy Park > Hackney Road > Old Street - 15.1km.

2) Snaresbrook Road > Lea Bridge Road (fun) > Dalston Lane > Balls Pond Road > Essex Road > Roseberry Avenue - 14.4km.

3) Lea Bridge Road up to the Ice Centre > Hackney Marsh towpath > Viccy Park > Regents Canal > Roseberry Avenue - 18.6km.

The off-road option (3) is the longest but I find it quite frustrating because of the width of the towpath and all the associated obstacles like peds, joggers, single file route etc. I'd much rather argue with cars than humans, if you know what I mean.

Any alternatives out there that I'm missing, or pleasant diversions to extend the journey up towards the 20k mark? Cheers in advance.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 18 June, 2014, 10:32:10 am
Chinese State Premier is in town.  Which explains the huge security presence in Hyde Park behind the Mandarin Oriental.  Apparently he keeps a suite there.

I certainly wouldn't want to argue with the Special Branch/Diplomatic Protection chap who was pulling random cars over behind me this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 18 June, 2014, 11:20:58 am
Missed the Victoria train so had to go to London Bridge today, which made the ride to Teddington a wee bit longer... Bonus!

From London Bridge, I went down Borough High St, then cut across to Lambeth Bridge, over the river and along the embankment to join the usual route at Chelsea Bridge - not the most direct way but at least it avoids Vauxhall Cross. Despite the extra 5km, the journey actually didn't take any longer overall - perhaps partly because of that lovely super-fast bit along the embankment, and I think partly because I'm getting more confident with the route and used to the trickier bits, but also partly because I was quite lucky with the timing at several sets of lights today.

A most enjoyable way to start the day.

http://www.strava.com/activities/154999936
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Otto on 18 June, 2014, 11:29:10 am
I hate Buses... that is all
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 18 June, 2014, 11:53:51 am
Quote from: jogler on 17 June, 2014, 03:46:33 pm
Today I have commuted* to work on my bike for the first time in almost 15 years.

It's predominately downhill out bound with the prevailing westerly on my back & unsurprisingly predominately up hill into a headwind on the way home.

* 12km each way,a distance imo  that  just about manages to avoid embarrassment as being described as a commute

 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 18 June, 2014, 10:22:07 pm
Quote from: Crock of Gold on 18 June, 2014, 09:28:59 am
This morning Jenny Jones fell off her bike as she leant over to kiss her partner bye-bye. Heavy panniers pulled her down. Some bruises.

Oh no! Poor Jenny.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 18 June, 2014, 11:28:14 pm
Quote from: Butterfly on 18 June, 2014, 10:22:07 pm
Quote from: Crock of Gold on 18 June, 2014, 09:28:59 am
This morning Jenny Jones fell off her bike as she leant over to kiss her partner bye-bye. Heavy panniers pulled her down. Some bruises.

Oh no! Poor Jenny.

Poor Jenny? (http://youtu.be/l703nX9MQtM)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 19 June, 2014, 09:13:19 am
What a lovely morning! The only real downer was the heavy traffic but the sunshine was so nice I just didn't care!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 19 June, 2014, 09:22:57 am
Snap !  Not too hot when I set off. Glorious.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 19 June, 2014, 09:54:15 am
Not too hot not too cold, slightly overcast which must be due to the fact work is holding a bbq for the staff today.

Ride in was nice, I'm starting to enjoy the hill climb at the beginning of this route.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CJBrewer on 19 June, 2014, 10:51:22 am
Nice ride (all 15mins of it). Sunny day, polite traffic -- waved a thankyou at a gent who followed me through the bends at a nice distance, he waved back from his open-top car as he passed  :thumbsup:

Much nicer than yesterday's impatient gesticulating eedjit!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 19 June, 2014, 11:47:03 am
(yesterday) A bunny raced me for a bit and I was winning  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 19 June, 2014, 11:56:39 am
Quote from: menthel on 19 June, 2014, 09:13:19 am
What a lovely morning! The only real downer was the heavy traffic but the sunshine was so nice I just didn't care!

Yup, lovely morning indeed.

The only downer for me was nearly getting T-boned by some utter cockwomble joining a roundabout without looking. Fortunately, I had anticipated that he wasn't going to stop so took pre-emptive evasive action. FFS, though.  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 19 June, 2014, 02:01:08 pm
Rode past the Royal highland show traffic chaos at ingliston today.  They had a nice day for it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 19 June, 2014, 02:01:39 pm
I passed a google camera car this morning.
It was waiting to turn out of Bournbrook Rd as I was turning into it from Raddlebarn.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 19 June, 2014, 02:27:33 pm
Was it also commuting or was it already at work?  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 19 June, 2014, 03:50:06 pm
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 19 June, 2014, 02:27:33 pm
Was it also commuting or was it already at work?  :D

Don't know if it was actually working or not.
They wouldn't use any pictures it took as I was passing as it was stuck behind another car queing at the junction.  They tend not to use those as they can simply use the shot when the first car has gone.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 20 June, 2014, 09:45:04 am
Near death experience last night with an idiot in a red van. Cycle to work was in two halves, no traffic for the first bit and then traffic chaos because of some broken temporary lights. Still, better than the train.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 20 June, 2014, 10:16:32 am
Oh my poor knees!!!

I bought this single speed as part of some grand scheme that it would do me good riding up hills on it that it would get easier and I would get stronger.

I really must stop eating chips they do rather seem to undo the good work really but oh so tasty after a ride home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 20 June, 2014, 10:32:05 am
They're filming in the cathedral close, Tulip Fever, I waited as loads of girls in eighteenth century costume streamed past.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 20 June, 2014, 01:00:56 pm
With the ride home this evening, it'll be a full house this week. First time in a looooong time. Total of 240km. Amazing how quickly it adds up. Dead chuffed with that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 20 June, 2014, 01:19:36 pm
I'm just about to complete my fourth of the year (as compared with only two for the whole of last year). I'm feeling mildly virtuous. There again, I'm only on 100 miles a week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 20 June, 2014, 09:31:49 pm
Quote from: perpetual dan on 19 June, 2014, 11:47:03 am
(yesterday) A bunny raced me for a bit and I was winning  :)

Today it was a butterfly. It pulled away easily on the hill and then had the cheek to come back and see what was taking me so long.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 20 June, 2014, 09:40:06 pm
On my way to work Yesterday my chain started to slip.  Only when I pressed hard on the pedals, starting off from the lights or a little hill on my route. I thought time for a new chain on the weekend.  Silly me.  On the way home I had something expensive in my bag so I decided to head for the railway station because sixteen miles of uncushioned travel might damage it. I am on flat roads so I did not expect any problems.  As I turned out the office the chain slipped, no worries. I reached the turn on to the main road through the industrial estate. I wait for a gap in the traffic, press on the pedals and the chain falls off. I carefully place the chain back on the chain ring and decide to push the bike to the other side of the dual carriageway.  I remount and ride to the traffic lights at the exit of the estate, where I pause the lights then try to accelerate and chain is off again this time inside the chainring. At least I have a good chain line if it falls of on either side.  This time my oily chain had fallen off the single sprocket as well so I made my hands very messy putting the chain back. I decided that it was not safe to travel along the main road into Bridgend so I became a pavement cyclist, please forgive me. When I reached the quieter one way street I rejoined the road and rode to the station. Waiting for the train I looked at the chain ring and observed a low curve up a tooth which I suspect to be the guilty part.

When I arrived near home at Radyr station I rode bike to Heol Isaf, the main road through the Village pushed of with a rolling start and turned into the moderate climb on  Windsor road. I got  half way up when it start slipping so I walked until leveled off. I remounted but I did not even try to climb up Drysgol Road with its 1 in 11 section. I need to use real power there. I remount and pass a slow cyclist who started from the station the same time I did. He passed me on Windsor Road when I stopped. I almost caught him before my walk up Drysgol Road.

Today I decided that I would not be using Orange bike. So I used Green bike with no events.

 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 22 June, 2014, 07:15:00 pm
Back to riding in the UK and on the roads, to adapt a phrase used by a motorcycling knob I adjusted a car's wing mirror with my elbow. It was at the Brighton Road/Massett's Road junction, which is a place I hate as it has two lights to control the right turn. The first light has the stop line and ASL, but drivers often go straight through to the second one because their brains are made of dog poo.

This time, I arrived in the ASL and as I waited, the first car behind me took the stopping of the oncoming traffic as an 'early away'. As the light turned red'n'amber, he was already coming past me on my left. To turn right.

It was slow enough that his mirror simply bent backwards rather than breaking my elbow, and he stopped. Oddly, not a word was said by him, and when he eventually overtook me on Massett's he did so fully in compliance with the HC. Not a gesture, not even a Look.

I rather suspect that he was thinking "That was a bit silly of me..."
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 23 June, 2014, 08:59:51 am
So yesterday, I'm moving quite rapidly across the junction from Grange Rd to Bermondsey St. Those that know it will know it's a fairly tight turn on Bermondsey St and one that needs to be taken in primary. So, there's a taxi right up my behind, which is admittedly the usual level of intimacy one expects from the genre. He wasn't the main problem. Middle-aged lady in front who just pulled out from a parking space right after the corner. No glance in the mirrors, no indication, no hesitation, out she comes, popping out like that damn weasel. I was lucky to be near the centre line, but I couldn't get over it because there was a van coming the other way. I slid to a halt a few centimeters shy of her car and waited for the moment when the taxi decided to occupy the same point in time and space as myself. It's not a nice sensation. Somehow he managed to stop. I think we both took a deep breath.

I don't normally bother to interface with drivers but as she was waiting at the next junction I thought I'd have a chat. it was rapidly evident that she'd not seen either me or the taxi but anyway – the old refrain – 'she indicated'. Which she hadn't. If you have a London taxi driver shaking his head sadly at your driving skills, I reckon you should give up and walk. Preferably with someone in front of you waving a red flag.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 23 June, 2014, 09:48:36 am
Nice one in this morning with some interval sprints included. Made me a bit sweaty.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 23 June, 2014, 10:21:25 am
Two people pushed their prams out in front of me on a crossing that was light controlled, light was red for them, and I had a double decker up my backside. I slowed and glanced back, they walked backward back onto the pavement.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 23 June, 2014, 10:28:06 am
A racing snake on a nice-looking Dolan overtook me in Tadcaster. I was pleased, as I hate ending up leap-frogging.

Half a mile down the road, he slowed to an utter snail's-pace going up a gentle hill. He had gears suitable for breaking the world speed record, was in his bottom gear and down to 8mph up what can barely be called a hill.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 23 June, 2014, 03:12:34 pm
I fear I may be glad of my jacket this afternoon. The air has gone really muggy and I've just heard a rumble of thunder :hand:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 23 June, 2014, 04:32:08 pm
It was a little cool & damp when I left home at 0500 hrs.It was very pleasant by the time I arrived at 0540.A loverly way to start the day.
'twas mega scorchio when I left work at 1400 hrs & even a surprisingly noticeable easterly headwind did nothing to cool things although it did encourage a very very leisurely pace.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 24 June, 2014, 08:23:09 am
I got home just before the thunder storm yesterday afternoon.

This morning was cool and misty with generally well-behaved motors - One Transit flatbed Could Do Better, but nothing to bother Stop SMIDSY with.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 24 June, 2014, 09:27:53 am
First commute for a week. A bit of zig-zagging on my least favourite hill but I discovered that 1) I can still ride up it fixed and b) I'm actually getting quicker.

One bit of 'after you', 'no after you' with a bus that assumed I would ride past when he was just about to pull out (I'd assumed he'd pull out so hung back). Les traffic than normal for some reason.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 24 June, 2014, 11:17:58 am
When complaining to TfL about the poor standard of driving (and attitude) of a bus driver, is it enough simply to fill in their online complaint form ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 24 June, 2014, 11:27:59 am
Perfectly nice pootle in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Otto on 24 June, 2014, 12:34:41 pm
First ride in all the way from home for longer than I care to remember.... I now hate Tandridge Hill Lane, Corksrew Hill, and Anerly Hill, in no particular order. I also realised that speed and fitness are easily lost!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 24 June, 2014, 02:12:56 pm
Terrible traffic on the way in this morning...

(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k170/smutchin/DC6E16D9-58B2-4CBF-AB7B-ED4A1465CFEC_zpsq4qiaqnz.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 25 June, 2014, 09:42:12 am
Unexpectedly wet this morning. You could see how long it has been since it last rained by the amount of detergent foam in the standing water.

It wasn't really raining by the time I set off, but I got splashed by an unthinking overtaker in a 4x4 who drove straight through the puddle next to me :(

Also had a bit of SCR with another cyclist on road down to site. First time I've met another commuter for a while.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 25 June, 2014, 09:50:31 am
Beautiful sunshine for me :) Nearly ran over a cat though.

Not been able to ride to work for a while before the last 2-3 weeks and I'm loving doing it again :)

Not sure I'll be quite so keen when the sun goes......... ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 25 June, 2014, 09:54:59 am
Excluding weekends I've just done 18 days cyclo-commuting in a row. I don't think I've ever been that consistent before. I try and get at least one day a week working from home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 25 June, 2014, 10:00:40 am
Timed the exit of the park perfectly this morning to get a tow off a car all the way along Ham Gate Avenue. Sweet. I'm now up to joint 14th (out of 5055) on that strava segment, which is nice, although slightly miffed that the driver wasn't going a tad faster - one second quicker and I'd have been top 10, dammit!  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 25 June, 2014, 10:49:13 am
Quote from: hatler on 24 June, 2014, 11:17:58 am
When complaining to TfL about the poor standard of driving (and attitude) of a bus driver, is it enough simply to fill in their online complaint form ?
To answer my own question, it would appear the answer is 'yes'.

I filled out the online form yesterday with this : -
Quote
Driver overtook me on my bike just before a bus stop and passed too close. When I spoke to him he said I should be on the cycle path. He then tried to overtake me again approaching a second bus stop, but failed to spot the pedestrian crossing the road on the zebra crossing. He stopped with the front of the bus beyond the black and white stripes. He subsequently overtook me far too close again. Please inspect the camera footage of bus registration number FG04 BHY and see whether you think this driver was driving safely. Most of all I would like for you to explain to him that cycles are allowed to use the road, even when there is a nearby cycle path. Also that it is not safe to pass within touching distance of a cyclist.

and got this back from TfL in an e-mail this morning : -

Quote
Thank you for your feedback form yesterday, concerning the dangerous driving on route 57 bus earlier that morning.

I’m sorry you were put in a dangerous situation and for any distress this may have caused. I am very concerned to learn of your experience and I appreciate how you must have felt after this happened.           

Our drivers are trained specifically in relation to standards of safety whilst operating vehicles around cyclists. Drivers are instructed to give all cyclists space when overtaking (about half the width of a bus, or 1.2 meters) and are also specifically instructed not to cut in on cyclists when approaching a stop. We expect our drivers to be mindful of cyclists and drive with due care and diligence.

London’s bus drivers receive comprehensive training and poor driving standards are unacceptable. I have passed the details to London United who operates the route for us, so that appropriate action can be taken to ensure this does not happen again. As you have included the bus registration number, they will be able to identify and interview the driver.

I wish you a more pleasant experience when cycling along our buses in the future. Once again thank you for taking the time to contact us. Please contact me again if you need any further assistance and I will be happy to help you. If you would prefer to talk to us about this matter, please call us on 0343 222 1234.

I look forward to the next communication from London United.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 25 June, 2014, 10:50:13 am
This extract was good to see : -

Quote
Drivers are instructed to give all cyclists space when overtaking (about half the width of a bus, or 1.2 meters) and are also specifically instructed not to cut in on cyclists when approaching a stop.

That's very clear.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 25 June, 2014, 10:55:47 am
Quote from: hatler on 25 June, 2014, 10:50:13 am
That's very clear.

Unlike

Quote
I wish you a more pleasant experience when cycling along our buses in the future.

???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 25 June, 2014, 11:21:24 am
:-)  I hadn't spotted that. Are the aisles wide enough ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 25 June, 2014, 11:54:06 am
No commuting for a few days, which really annoys me. Although today it's because I'm collecting a bike I have just bought.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 25 June, 2014, 02:22:07 pm
Closest I've come to an accident in a long time.

A64 in leeds. I'm in bus lane. Hundred yards ahead there is slip road to the left, I want to move right at that point into the straight on cycle path.
50 yards ahead the bus lane ceases being bus lane.

Lane ahead clear, look over shoulder for buses, clear, move right . . . oh Sh!t, car is pulling into bus lane, swerve, brake, they brake  . . . missed them by a gnat's whisker.
   
I should have been a bit more attentive. Could have been nasty, was doing about 22-25mph (it's downhill).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 25 June, 2014, 03:04:21 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 24 June, 2014, 02:12:56 pm
Terrible traffic on the way in this morning...

(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k170/smutchin/DC6E16D9-58B2-4CBF-AB7B-ED4A1465CFEC_zpsq4qiaqnz.jpg)


And illegal. Aren't commercial vehicles banned from the park?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 25 June, 2014, 04:59:27 pm
It remains cool & dampish at 0500hrs & I reckon that when this spell of good weather ends I'll need to wear a windproof on the way to work.

Today's ride home was brill..
Bright sunshine,ideal temperature & NO HEADWIND :thumbsup:

The up bits seemed so much easier.I was actually accelerating uphill & changing up a gear before the top.One of those rides when everything seemed just right & at one with the bike.
Not at all shabby for one whose mojo remains under refurbishment ;D

There is very little between home & work other than fields & farm buildings.The smell of haymaking is heavy in the air together with other countryside smells of the more pleasant type.

Definitely felt the endorphin buzz this afternnon 8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 25 June, 2014, 10:39:54 pm
Following the closure of my Old Work ( 40 miles away, over a big hill ) and me now working at my New Work ( 10 miles away, and on this side of the big hill ), I've not really gotten into the stride of riding to work.   It's all seemed a bit dull and pointless.

I've tried to kick myself up the arse and do a long-cut to work, but it's surprisingly hard to put in artificial long-cuts.   The CBA factor is very strong.

However, I've gathered up my petticoat skirts and gritted my teeth and today I did what I've been wanting to do for a while.
I got up early, and rode past my New Work, up the big hill, turned around and rode back to work, 57k.

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/528113661

Furthermore, lunch was a bit late, and I needed to clear my head, so I managed a lunchtime loop too, 28k.

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/528244865

Feeling a bit more like my old self now, so a result.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 25 June, 2014, 11:11:47 pm
I got up one of the little steep hills I've not been able to before on the fixed on my way home. Not often I find myself punching the air during the commute :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 26 June, 2014, 02:24:55 pm
Chapeau!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 26 June, 2014, 04:51:44 pm
This morning I did my fastest ever navigation around the A473 Industrial Estate Roundabout. I was about to stop and do my usual wait to cross the traffic stream at red and tagging my self to a break in the circulating traffic against red. This is the safest way. To day as I approached the roundabout the cars were stopped at the lights and I thought it was safe to do my usual trick. As I started to cross in front of the traffic the lights changed to green. Eek! I accelerate through the next green light and safety back on the left As I see than the final light is also green and I exit to Bridgend Industrial Estate having done the turn as if there was no traffic. A smile on my face,
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 30 June, 2014, 09:18:40 am
My shoulder and elbow ache....because I fell off.

Damned pawls went accelerating across a slip road, making the singlespeed suddenly bi-directional.

Exit stage right, and find yerself sprawled on the tarmac :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 30 June, 2014, 09:57:41 am
Ouch. :(

(Hows the bike?)

I forgot it was cycle to work week at work this week, so didn't get up early and meet the group rides coming in. Actually I slept so badly last night I needed every minute I could get.

Rode in with lovely weather but my hamstrings felt like they were made of lead and I had barely enough energy to get up the hills on the way in. Hoping to feel more energetic by the time I ride home this evening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 30 June, 2014, 10:41:36 am
Span in (mostly! ;)) as I am wearing in new rims and brake blocks. Was not a bad trip in!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 30 June, 2014, 10:43:02 am
Quote from: mcshroom on 30 June, 2014, 09:57:41 am
Ouch. :(

(Hows the bike?)

Scuffed h/b tape and scratched brake lever - I took one to save it :P

Wallet hurts now thobut

Just ordered a White 18t to replace the crap that is the MX30; can't have that happening during tour-de-Yorkshire next week, or mid- HGWI 1300. Still, at least the clacky-clacky will keep me (& others) awake late in the night ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 30 June, 2014, 12:01:14 pm
Sunny this morning so wore shades, arrived at work with an unzipped bag and no specs............... now to recall where i heard that gentle thump  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 30 June, 2014, 08:21:24 pm
I screwed up today.
Got to work, the pocket which normally houses my wallet was unzipped, and empty.
PANIC!!!!!
Did I lose it? Or is it still at home?
Returned home, and eventually found the wallet in a very odd place.
Phew!
Today, my commute totalled 56 miles.
I'm pooped. And hungry.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 30 June, 2014, 09:19:58 pm
Left my house/bike keys on the front steps once, which forced a similar tripling of my morning commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 30 June, 2014, 09:50:16 pm
On a similar theme of things I remembered that I'd forgot. Yesterday, I reached the A205 at the end of Streatham on a convoluted journey to see some musical happening in Kingston (I was planning to loop around via Richmond) and then as a spot of rain caught me right between the eyes I remembered I'd left the lawn mower battery plugged into the charger. In the middle of the patio. A sudden fear of the house burning down and It Being My Fault meant I had to turn around and race the rain a good 12 miles home. Which I just managed, preventing conflagration, and a rather humbling need to apologise for the smouldering wreakage of my just about refurbished home. I'd never hear the end of that. Then I had to turn around make a direct run to Kingston at close to hyperspace velocities. Though the Millennium Falcon probably didn't get lost in Sutton.

I made the last five minutes of music. Then back home.

I need to learn the cats to (a) answer the phone and (b) follow instructions to undo my mistakes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 30 June, 2014, 10:06:08 pm
Ian.
It relives me beyond words that I can describe, that I am not alone.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 30 June, 2014, 11:28:12 pm
That's a direct violation of one of the Rules According To Kim:  *Never* teach your cat to flush the toilet, ring the doorbell or answer the phone, lest they do so repeatedly and to maximise inconvenience (for they are, after all, cats).  Bathroom lightswitches are a bad idea, too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 01 July, 2014, 09:01:00 am
Quote from: Jurek on 30 June, 2014, 10:06:08 pm
Ian.
It relives me beyond words that I can describe, that I am not alone.

Thing is, when I plugged the damn thing in I thought to myself 'you'll forget that'. 'Ha,' I said, 'I will not, for it's the middle of the patio and I cannot miss it.' (That incidentally was the logic behind the al fresco charging. I have no idea why I didn't just charge the battery in the kitchen.)

My bike, of course, was in the front porch.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 01 July, 2014, 09:58:02 am
Quote from: ian on 30 June, 2014, 09:50:16 pm
On a similar theme of things I remembered that I'd forgot. Yesterday, I reached the A205 at the end of Streatham on a convoluted journey to see some musical happening in Kingston (I was planning to loop around via Richmond) and then as a spot of rain caught me right between the eyes I remembered I'd left the lawn mower battery plugged into the charger. In the middle of the patio. A sudden fear of the house burning down and It Being My Fault meant I had to turn around and race the rain a good 12 miles home. Which I just managed, preventing conflagration, and a rather humbling need to apologise for the smouldering wreakage of my just about refurbished home. I'd never hear the end of that. Then I had to turn around make a direct run to Kingston at close to hyperspace velocities. Though the Millennium Falcon probably didn't get lost in Sutton.

I made the last five minutes of music. Then back home.

I need to learn the cats to (a) answer the phone and (b) follow instructions to undo my mistakes.

Sutton- you won't find a bigger hive of scum and villany.

This mornings commute was very nice- Richmond Park lapped on my lovely new wide rimmed wheels (where have they been all my life???)- so smooth.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 01 July, 2014, 10:09:57 am
After arriving back in Brum too late yesterday morning to ditch the car at digs and cycle in to the office I was pleased to find that

A) I was awake enough to get up and run a bit and
B) I managed to be 10 minutes early into work when cycling.

I was however not best pleased to discover the tea trolley had been to my office and despite my instructions about always leaving a tea none had been left and I had to hunt the poor girl down to obtain my supply of milky brown liquid claiming to be tea.

Some mornings I really understand what Arthur Dent must have felt like.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 July, 2014, 10:57:59 am
Quote from: ian on 30 June, 2014, 09:50:16 pm
... Though the Millennium Falcon probably didn't get lost in Sutton.


I wouldn't bet on that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 01 July, 2014, 12:02:29 pm
Quote from: Si_Co on 30 June, 2014, 12:01:14 pm
Sunny this morning so wore shades, arrived at work with an unzipped bag and no specs............... now to recall where i heard that gentle thump  ::-)

Well the gentle thump was my glasses falling out of my main compartment and landing in the water proof cover  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 01 July, 2014, 03:34:14 pm
^^^^^
Pleased for you with a fortunate result like that :thumbsup:

This morning it was cool & damp enough at 0500 hrs to have me feeling cold & wishing I had worn a windproof or similar: & yet on the way home it was too warm wearing only a s/sleeve shirt,shorts & trainers.

Decided to give the A522 a miss & come home via Bramshall,Nobutt & Church Leigh.It was great being out in the lanes with no traffic.I might make that the default route home even though it takes a little longer & is a wee bit lumpy in places.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 01 July, 2014, 03:52:18 pm
Quote from: jogler on 01 July, 2014, 03:34:14 pm
Decided to give the A522 a miss & come home via Bramshall,Nobutt & Church Leigh.It was great being out in the lanes with no traffic.I might make that the default route home even though it takes a little longer & is a wee bit lumpy in places.
Is that a mojo I spy returning? :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 01 July, 2014, 04:41:34 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 01 July, 2014, 03:52:18 pm
Quote from: jogler on 01 July, 2014, 03:34:14 pm
Decided to give the A522 a miss & come home via Bramshall,Nobutt & Church Leigh.It was great being out in the lanes with no traffic.I might make that the default route home even though it takes a little longer & is a wee bit lumpy in places.
Is that a mojo I spy returning? :)

I reckon so.It's been lurking in a more visible place for a few weeks now.
I'm going to give it a bit of a try-out in September ;) if not sooner.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 02 July, 2014, 08:49:58 am
Glorious morning for an extended ride in.
Went via the Cairn, for old time's sake, again!

Commute in via Garrol, CoM 60k
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/532853225

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 02 July, 2014, 10:57:11 am
The last time I paid much attention to the disposition of road and pavement layout at Baker's Arms was probably the evening when San Marino's record-breaking goal ensured that England would not be taking part in the 1994 foopball World Cup finals.  The Baker's Arms itself was desanctified in 2010, and is now a branch of Paddy Power :sick:

So I'm on pole at the lights, heading north from the Leyton High Road into Hoe Street.  Behind me a Renault Clio resembling an unkempt wheelie bin; coming in the opposite direction a double-decker bus.  The lights change.  Now, I am well out of practice, and still recovering from the clod that has seen me spend the previous ninety minutes sounding like Blakeney Point during the mating season, and I'm riding fixed.  So I aten't massively quick off the line.  Fernando Alonso I am assuredly not.  But I aten't that slo either.  This seems to have escaped the Nicole in the Clio.  I am a cyclist, the stuff of which gutters are made, and must therefore be overtaken as soon as possible.  The oncoming bus produces the result we learned early on in skool mathematics classes, viz. three into two won't go.  The Nicole cuts ruthlessly through this mathemagical wossname by encouraging Mr Larrington to vacate the carriageway, using the Hatchback of Notre Dame to reinforce the point.

Fortunately the dropped kerbs outside Paddy Power are gentle in gradient and extend far enough to allow Mr Larrington and Depravo the Roadrat to mount the footway and thus avoid being killed utterly to DETH.  Which would have been my fault, obv., as I wasn't wearing a helmet.  Rage-fulled adrenaline can do Wonderful Things.  Witness the barking hippy wind a 64" gear up to astronomical revs as he hunts down the Nicole with the grim determination of a Cape Hunting Dog, taps on her window and advises her to PUT THE FUCKING PHONE DOWN.  The blank-faced Nicole looks at me as though I had recently stepped out of one of the alien spacecraft frequently observed in those parts1, her brightly-illuminated anbaric telephone still clutched in one grubby little claw.

I realise that any attempt to converse rationally with the Nicole will almost certainly be naught but an exercise in futility and trundle off into the sunset muttering Dark Things into my beard.

1 - Trufax.  A man in the library last week told me he had seen and photographed ET and his scoutcraft in 2008.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: billplumtree on 02 July, 2014, 12:51:14 pm
Ah, there's nowt quite like the poetry of a Larringtonian rant at full chat.  Good to have you back and on both form and a bike, Mr L.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 02 July, 2014, 01:05:03 pm
Crashed on the way in this morning. Went over the bars and broke my right humerus clean through the middle. :(

No other vehicles involved and the bike is fine. Now at home with an arm in plaster and a bag full of drugz. Working out how to get to the fracture clinic tomorrow (it's in Carlisle) as the A&E doctor thinks it needs pinning
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 02 July, 2014, 01:08:57 pm
Ouch !  How on earth did you manage that ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 02 July, 2014, 01:12:05 pm
Saw a car coming towards the other end of a hump back bridge, went to swerve in to the left and either over-cooked it or struck a pedal. Ended up highsiding and I think I must have landed right on the crown of the bridge.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 July, 2014, 01:21:16 pm
Eek!  Glad you're still with us.  Heal quickly, mcshroom, and we hope to see you back awheel soon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 02 July, 2014, 01:27:01 pm
Ouch ouch ouch.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 02 July, 2014, 01:40:41 pm
Oh dear. Wishing you a soonly healed humerus and an unbroken humour.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Vince on 02 July, 2014, 01:46:41 pm
Ouch!!!

GWS.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 02 July, 2014, 02:12:43 pm
To make things worse I just got a lift down to retrieve the bike and it's not there :'(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 02 July, 2014, 02:13:25 pm
that's insult to injury - GWvS
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 02 July, 2014, 02:16:24 pm
Oh poo.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 July, 2014, 02:28:34 pm
Arse and crap and bollocks.

Hope someone's just taken it for safe custody.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 02 July, 2014, 02:31:07 pm
That's what I'm hoping, but we asked at some of the very few houses round there and they hadn't seen it
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 02 July, 2014, 02:53:42 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 02 July, 2014, 01:12:05 pm
Saw a car coming towards the other end of a hump back bridge, went to swerve in to the left and either over-cooked it or struck a pedal. Ended up highsiding and I think I must have landed right on the crown of the bridge.


Quote from: mcshroom on 02 July, 2014, 02:12:43 pm
To make things worse I just got a lift down to retrieve the bike and it's not there :'(



Holy crap Thatman :o
My gob is smacked other than to say best wishes for the soonest,most pain free & complete recovery possible.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 02 July, 2014, 03:09:23 pm
Yay, bike's safely in someone's garage :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 02 July, 2014, 03:11:20 pm
That a relief :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 02 July, 2014, 04:03:44 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 02 July, 2014, 03:09:23 pm
Yay, bike's safely in someone's garage :D
Huzzah !!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: itsbruce on 02 July, 2014, 05:38:33 pm
:-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 02 July, 2014, 05:45:58 pm
http://img4.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20110625131858/icarly/images/e/e0/0001st50.gif
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 02 July, 2014, 05:50:36 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 02 July, 2014, 01:05:03 pm
Crashed on the way in this morning. Went over the bars and broke my right humerus clean through the middle. :(

No other vehicles involved and the bike is fine. Now at home with an arm in plaster and a bag full of drugz. Working out how to get to the fracture clinic tomorrow (it's in Carlisle) as the A&E doctor thinks it needs pinning

Feck! Hope all goes well at the clinic tomorrow.

That sounds really nasty.

Heal well!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 02 July, 2014, 06:31:07 pm
Coming back into work after lunch (I assume that does count as commuting even though I don't always go home for lunch and sometimes go for a ride elsewhere) I was overtaken by a stream of four vehicles. Thirty MPH road with crossing refuges so it can be a bit awkward with overtaking. Two of the vehicles squeezed past too close for comfort so they didn't have to wait until we'd cleared one of the pinch points. One of the four was a scaffolding lorry and one was a big 4x4. They behaved impeccably; it was the two 'normal' cars who were in a hurry to get to the queue for the roundabout at the end of the road.  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 02 July, 2014, 09:12:16 pm
Three good things happened on the commute today:
First, I rode both ways, with Miss Dan the Younger on tagalong for the first bit there. Both ways hasn't happened for ages.
Second, I was passed and then despite actively taking it easy caught them again at the end.
Third, I discovered that by looking down a bit I get a nice cooling breeze down my top and arrived not too sweaty.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 02 July, 2014, 11:06:00 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 02 July, 2014, 01:05:03 pm
Crashed on the way in this morning. Went over the bars and broke my right humerus clean through the middle. :(

No other vehicles involved and the bike is fine. Now at home with an arm in plaster and a bag full of drugz. Working out how to get to the fracture clinic tomorrow (it's in Carlisle) as the A&E doctor thinks it needs pinning

Pics or it didn't happen ;)

GWS Marcus.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 02 July, 2014, 11:55:32 pm
I consider myself quite fortunate for a Londoner - I live in a pretty green bit of it, that's not a feeling that diminishes and as I approach home I often slip into a reverie, particularly on a sunny day. This point, coming up to a roundabout controlled junction where I turn left might well be one such http://goo.gl/maps/7wYND

If you approach this roundabout and decide to stop as a bus is coming from the right and forget that putting a foot down requires unclipping, you can still have a clipless moment even after all these years......

plop.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 03 July, 2014, 12:21:39 am
Quote from: mcshroom on 02 July, 2014, 01:05:03 pm
Crashed on the way in this morning. Went over the bars and broke my right humerus clean through the middle. :(

Ouch.  :(

GWS.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 03 July, 2014, 12:41:27 am
I pride myself on never colliding with pedestrians, not even pavement lemmings...

Hit one this morning. Only a glancing blow, but still an end to my unblemished record, dammit. It happened at the bottom of Medfield Lane (coming off Putney Heath down the hill to Roehampton). I was passing some buses that were queuing to turn right at the T-junction at the bottom and she was marching obliviously between them, eyes fixed firmly ahead. I swerved to avoid her but she kept marching and was marching so determinedly that she marched straight into the side of me. Maybe I shouldn't have slowed down - I might have got away with it if I hadn't braked! Anyway, regardless of whose "fault" it was, I'm disappointed that it's the end of a run that's lasted since I was 14 (the last time I collided with a pedestrian on my bike). Bugger.

The ride home was interesting for different reasons. I was working late but it got to the point where I had to leave or risk not getting home until stupid o'clock (or should I say even stupider o'clock than usual) and was cutting it very fine - I started out from the office at 8.38pm, aiming for the 9.22pm train. It usually takes me about 46 minutes + time spent waiting at traffic lights to cover the 18km to Victoria. Last night it took 50 minutes. PB is 43 minutes. Tonight it took me a little over 36 minutes and I made it to my train with several minutes to spare. Blimey. It's amazing how fast you can ride when you really need to.  :thumbsup:

It helped that I was rather lucky with the lights - I only had to go through one red and that was on the verge of turning green anyway (yeah, I know, no excuse, but wevs). Strava makes very enjoyable reading tonight!  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 03 July, 2014, 01:32:25 am
Quote from: mcshroom on 02 July, 2014, 01:05:03 pm
Crashed on the way in this morning. Went over the bars and broke my right humerus clean through the middle. :(

No other vehicles involved and the bike is fine. Now at home with an arm in plaster and a bag full of drugz. Working out how to get to the fracture clinic tomorrow (it's in Carlisle) as the A&E doctor thinks it needs pinning
Ya had to go one better ;)
GWS
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 03 July, 2014, 07:36:11 am
Lovely ride in this morning. First time over 15mph for the entire ride including the hill at the end.

I felt like I was in God's own country. Then I crossed over into England and that was OK too I suppose. ;-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 03 July, 2014, 09:58:45 am
Nice pootle in at a pleasant pace in lovely weather. Only thing that spoiled it was the traffic but even then it didn't bother me too much!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 03 July, 2014, 04:23:24 pm
Tried the windproof/waterproof/almost breathable & base layer combo this morning to deal with the cool&damp: :thumbsup:

However it's too warm to wear that jacket on the way home so it has to be carried in a pannier with all the other paraphernalia 'cause there are no lockers avaialable for agency temp. workers.

Additionally I brought my safety boots home this afternoon 'cause I'm not working for the best part of two weeks & I dare not risk leaving anything un-attended for that length of time.This required a second pannier.
All this looked & was indeed heavier than my touring kit for the last week of myE2E ::-)

Came home the longer,scenic,lumpier route & was "blessed" with a rather unfriendly headwind.
50mins to do 16km :-[

So...just as I begin to establish a commuting routine after years without one,Murphy's Law takes it's course & inflicts an annoying interruption >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 04 July, 2014, 07:41:42 am
Ver ver warm this morning. Struggled against the wind, OK stiff breeze, on my 16kg trekking monster, as I'm anticipating rain on the way home and this is the only bike I have with decent brakes at the mo. I have a Day One Disc awaiting new cranks, although I'm not sure I would have appreciated the lack of granny gear this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 04 July, 2014, 09:11:56 am
The roads are filling up with mamils. TDF effect, innit.

Saw someone on side of road, cycling top, etc. No bike in sight. So I stopped to ask if they were ok (thinking they had come off or had a breakdown). They looked confused. I repeated the question.

They were fine. No bike. Just a frenchman over to follow the tour, wearing his team's colours I think. Neither of us understood a word the other was saying.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 04 July, 2014, 10:40:14 am
Warm, tailwind and not too much traffic on the second half of my commute- very nice!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 04 July, 2014, 12:40:31 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 02 July, 2014, 03:09:23 pm
Yay, bike's safely in someone's garage :D
Thank goodness for that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 04 July, 2014, 02:37:24 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 04 July, 2014, 09:11:56 am
The roads are filling up with mamils. TDF effect, innit.

Saw someone on side of road, cycling top, etc. No bike in sight. So I stopped to ask if they were ok (thinking they had come off or had a breakdown). They looked confused. I repeated the question.

They were fine. No bike. Just a frenchman over to follow the tour, wearing his team's colours I think. Neither of us understood a word the other was saying.

"La plume de ma tante! La plume de ma tante!"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 04 July, 2014, 10:56:43 pm
Finished work early today so rode the 32km from Teddington to Bromley to get the train there instead of Victoria. Jeez, it was hot. And I still had a stinking hangover from last night's all-nighter. And I hadn't planned my route very carefully so encountered a number of impassable bits and had to take detours. Plus traffic was appalling and slowed me down a lot.

But it was still good to be out on my bike.

Mood only slightly spoiled by woman on train who spent the whole journey harrumphing and muttering because I had the audacity to put my bike next to hers in the designated bike area meaning she couldn't stretch her legs out. At least she could sit - the train was packed so I stood the whole way. She made a few comments to me but they were worded weirdly so it took me a while to understand that they were supposed to be complaints. Stupid cow.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 07 July, 2014, 10:56:39 am
Me. Gears. About 28 personal records on Strava.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 07 July, 2014, 12:07:28 pm
Hostipal appointment.  No bus due to some bike race buggering up east Londonton.  Let us therefore gird up our lions and take the towpath bike for its first proper run in four years.

Legs have forgotten that recumbent=gears and upright=fixed.  This makes clipping the trailing foot in an order of magnitude easier.  Notable lack of tw@s at first, until:

Large red-jerseyed roadie: LOOK WHERE YOU'RE FUCKING GOING!!

The offending party looks neither right nor left as she pedals serenely past along the towpath, phone clamped firmly to her left ear.  Fortunately I turned off before needing to overtake.

19 km round trip - longest since coming out of the Gulag.  Today could turn out to be Epic coz I'm going out to see le Tour later, returning via Sainsbury's and will almost certainly ride to tonight's NA meeting 8). If I manage to stop coughing.

Edit: good job I took the towpath bike to le Tour coz after two hours of standing around they only way I could get my right leg over the saddle was by standing on the left pedal and scooting.  Should've fettled the upright trike, then I'd have had somewhere to sit down.

Edit 2: 40 km in all today and only a pedal bite in my right ankle to show for it.  Crank Bros Candys aten't supposed to do that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 08 July, 2014, 06:09:03 pm
Avoided my first conker in the road this year.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 08 July, 2014, 10:14:08 pm
Yesterday was an 80km round trip with a climb over the Mendips up the "Wrangle" on the way home to get to Cheddar Gorge. Worked from home today. Should be another commute tomorrow. Got to get fit for the Scottish Ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 09 July, 2014, 07:54:29 am
Took the Day One Disc in today. I haven't tested it since replacing the crankset and chain, but I couldn't resist. I love it, it's a bit big but not too bad. 2 things became apparent though - 1) I don't know how to tighten an FSA headset (I did stem before cap, doh), resulting in front brake shudder, and 2) the chain went from surprisingly tight to a bit too loose, probably because my riding the bike has done what I should have done beforehand, namely click the missing link's pins into place. So a headset adjustment and a rear wheel adjustment is due at lunchtime.

Apart from that, it's just right for my route and current ability with a 42/18 gear ratio. I didn't attempt the hill at the end today for fear of knackering myself, I'll try it tomorrow as it'll be my last commute of the week. I can see me reducing the sprocket to 16t at some point in the future, not sure I would want or need to go much below that though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PhilO on 09 July, 2014, 09:22:56 am
A new personal record for a one way commute for me yesterday. The direct route from the Office side of Newport to home in Rogerstone is ~6km. Last night I went via  Cwmbran, Pontypool and Crumlin; 50km.

Very pleasant it was, too. Started in the rain, and was in sunshine for the descent into the Ebbw Valley an hour later.  :thumbsup:

And beats my previous best of 25miles (Ruddington to Newark) of 15 years ago.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 09 July, 2014, 09:39:30 am
Turning right into Three Arch Road, near East Surrey Hospital, on a filter arrow. Mercedes joining my lane from the other direction has a left filter lane and a GIVE WAY line. He's oblivious to me and matey next to me on a GBFO BMW motorbike and drifts serenely on, as we take mild evasive action.  The reason? He's on the twatting phone of course.  Two hundred metres later he turns off left into the hospital staff overflow car park. I'm on his tail (more or less) so follow him in. I gesticulate that he should wind the window down, which he does. I suggest, calmly, that next time he shouldn't drive while on the phone as he'd nearly taken us out.  He looked incredibly shamefaced and apologetic. Job done (I hope).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 09 July, 2014, 09:58:10 am
Last night on the way home it rained so heavily it has made my eyes sore.

Seriously, at one point the gap between my glasses and eyes was filling up completely, as if someone had tipped a bucket of water over my head. The road went from dry to 2" deep across the carriageway in seconds.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 09 July, 2014, 10:00:07 am
25 miles and 1500' of climbing to get from my bedroom to the study opposite. The joys of working from home!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 09 July, 2014, 10:11:03 am
Just a warning, folks: today appears to be National Drive Like An Even Bigger Moron Than Usual Day.

I met several candidates for the prize on my way to work this morning but leading the field so far is the chap who refused to accept that the road had narrowed and rather than filter in behind the car alongside him, engaged in a battle of wills over who went first. As the road got narrower, he was edging further and further across to the other side of the road, which wouldn't have been so bad if I hadn't been approaching from that direction. My normal policy in these situations is to take the lane and thereby encourage the driver to get the fuck back on his side of the road, but it soon became apparent that the tactic wasn't going to work in this instance since the offending driver was too busy staring to his left and waggling his finger at the other driver to look where he was going. So I had to take evasive action.

Gave his window a good firm slap as I passed. Didn't wait around to see how he felt about that, though. Probably not wise.

FFS. These stupid, petty acts of aggression for the sake of what? Not even saving a second off your journey time because all you achieve is getting to the next set of lights one second sooner than you would have arrived there anyway. Fucking motorists.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 09 July, 2014, 10:13:43 am
There no bike commutes this week & I'm missing them already ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 09 July, 2014, 10:19:24 am
Quote from: jogler on 09 July, 2014, 10:13:43 am
There no bike commutes this week & I'm missing them already ::-)
Snap :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 09 July, 2014, 10:22:49 am
Quote from: mcshroom on 09 July, 2014, 10:19:24 am
Quote from: jogler on 09 July, 2014, 10:13:43 am
There no bike commutes this week & I'm missing them already ::-)
Snap :(

my bold

I know you did but I didn't.

sorry,couldn't resist the pun.
GWS
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 09 July, 2014, 10:23:15 am
Quote from: mcshroom on 09 July, 2014, 10:19:24 am
Quote from: jogler on 09 July, 2014, 10:13:43 am
There no bike commutes this week & I'm missing them already ::-)
Snap :(

Extend that to THIS YEAR and you have how I feel....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 09 July, 2014, 10:59:43 am
It was lovely to see that little girl riding an obviously well-maintained bike confidently along Wood Street E17.  Unaccompanied by an adult, so Social Services will probably be involved soon, but...

Just one thing, though.  In this country, young lady, we ride on the left.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 09 July, 2014, 11:49:46 am
"Why don't you use the fucking cycle track?"
"Why don't you?"
"Uhhhhh."

And there his brain did an exemplary emergency stop.

Audi drivers. OK, I know there's a reasonable one somewhere, but if you're a sensible Audi driver you may want to reconsider your choice of locomotion. You've effectively carrying around a big sign that reads "I AM A TWAT".

Please think of the BMW drivers. You've nicked their signs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 09 July, 2014, 12:18:41 pm
Quote from: Mr Larrington on 09 July, 2014, 10:59:43 am
Just one thing, though.  In this country, young lady, we ride on the left.

...as I screamed at my wife who was happily leading daughter down the right hand side of a local road. FFS, mainland Europeans, who'd marry one?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 09 July, 2014, 04:02:07 pm
Quote from: ian on 09 July, 2014, 11:49:46 am
"Why don't you use the fucking cycle track?"
"Why don't you?"
"Uhhhhh."

And there his brain did an exemplary emergency stop.

Audi drivers. OK, I know there's a reasonable one somewhere, but if you're a sensible Audi driver you may want to reconsider your choice of locomotion. You've effectively carrying around a big sign that reads "I AM A TWAT".

Please think of the BMW drivers. You've nicked their signs.

POTD
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Diver300 on 09 July, 2014, 06:07:48 pm
BX55WDK overtook and cut in.

BX55WDK is a great big lorry and the rear of the load deck came within about a foot of my head.

I had slowed him down. He had been behind me for around 1 minute, in a 30 limit, at an average speed of 26.4 mph (largely downhill), so around 7 seconds less than travelling at the speed limit.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 10 July, 2014, 07:12:17 am
Made it up Sundays Hill on the Day One, woohoo! I'm not noticeably faster, on average, than on my 13kg 10-speed. However there is something addictive about this single speed lark.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 10 July, 2014, 09:47:33 am
Well done! I find that hill pretty challenging in a gear of ~32" so getting up there on singlespeed sounds impressive to me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 10 July, 2014, 10:26:34 am
Thanks! I have decent runners legs already, and hence pretty good lungs/recovery, plus the bike is geared low for a single (42/18), but all this lactic stuff is pretty new to me as I am not much of a hill runner. I was reduced to standing up and doing a fair bit of grinding as opposed to bouncing, especially on and just after the turn into Over Lane. No doubt I will pay for it this afternoon on the Severn bridge, where there will no doubt be a headwind!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 11 July, 2014, 11:48:30 am
You know when a driver flashes the hazards to say thanks? That's fifty points. Anyone else get fifty points today? Nope, just me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 11 July, 2014, 11:53:12 am
Got the pavement one wrong;

http://www.irwinmitchell.com/the-great-british-cycling-quiz.html
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Vince on 11 July, 2014, 12:11:53 pm
I got the one on alcohol wrong.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 11 July, 2014, 12:12:45 pm
The pavement one is vague and unclear, so in fact I won.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 11 July, 2014, 12:24:50 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 11 July, 2014, 11:53:12 am
http://www.irwinmitchell.com/the-great-british-cycling-quiz.html

Got 100%   O:-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 11 July, 2014, 12:27:29 pm
Me too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: nicknack on 11 July, 2014, 12:45:21 pm
So you can never ride on a shared use pavement?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 11 July, 2014, 12:46:30 pm
Quote from: nicknack on 11 July, 2014, 12:45:21 pm
So you can never ride on a shared use pavement?

A shared-use path isn't legally a pavement.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 11 July, 2014, 12:55:15 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 11 July, 2014, 12:12:45 pm
The pavement one is vague and unclear, so in fact I won.

No it's not, it is technically correct.  There is no vagueness about it, only, maybe in the eye of the reader!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 11 July, 2014, 01:03:21 pm
Buses that overtake and then almost immediately stop, what's that about?   :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 11 July, 2014, 01:27:49 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 11 July, 2014, 11:53:12 am
Got the pavement one wrong;

http://www.irwinmitchell.com/the-great-british-cycling-quiz.html

Oh whoops. Where am I going to get some amber pedal reflectors that fit on to SPDs?  (rhetorical question)

Got the rest though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dibdib on 11 July, 2014, 03:29:27 pm
100%.  O:-) And yeah, I didn't think the pavements one was ambiguous.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Regulator on 11 July, 2014, 03:34:07 pm
Quote from: Dibdib on 11 July, 2014, 03:29:27 pm
100%.  O:-) And yeah, I didn't think the pavements one was ambiguous.

Ditto and ditto...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 11 July, 2014, 04:56:11 pm
Me  :D

first ride home this year, what with hip surgery and working away from home. 15 miles and great weather. Pity about some of the car drivers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 11 July, 2014, 05:38:44 pm
Quote from: tiermat on 11 July, 2014, 12:55:15 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 11 July, 2014, 12:12:45 pm
The pavement one is vague and unclear, so in fact I won.

No it's not, it is technically correct.  There is no vagueness about it, only, maybe in the eye of the reader!

It's not "technically" correct because you're allowed to cross the pavement with a vehicle (bike, car, whatever) to access off-road property.

Anyway, I don't like the word "pavement". It's ambiguous. I know it's commonly accepted to mean the bit at the side of the road designated for people to walkpark their car on, but semantically it describes the form rather than the function. The fact that we use it to mean the opposite of what Americans understand by the term highlights the ambiguity. I prefer the term "footpath" myself, which unambiguously implies that it's not for cycling (or parking cars) on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 11 July, 2014, 06:12:09 pm
Managed to leave my notebook containing all my trade secrets etc on a site yesterday. So an unexpected ride into town and back - it was a nice afternoon, so I took a comedy bike (the 22kg shopping bike) and had a lovely ride with little traffic.

Last ride over putney bridge in a while. I will ride over it in August on the ride London 100, but that is it until October now.

Glad i am on a training course Monday/Tuesday as it will be a bit chaotic Monday whilst everyone works out that the bridge is closed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 11 July, 2014, 07:55:52 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 11 July, 2014, 01:27:49 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 11 July, 2014, 11:53:12 am
Got the pavement one wrong;

http://www.irwinmitchell.com/the-great-british-cycling-quiz.html

Oh whoops. Where am I going to get some amber pedal reflectors that fit on to SPDs?  (rhetorical question)

Got the rest though.

You think you've got problems?  Try finding pedal reflectors for Look Deltas visible from behind a recumbent ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 11 July, 2014, 10:14:55 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 11 July, 2014, 05:38:44 pm
I prefer the term "footpath" myself, which unambiguously implies that it's not for cycling (or parking cars) on.

Except that a footpath is something distinct from a pavement in British law.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 12 July, 2014, 12:13:24 am
I remember getting my ear bent for writing a technical report where I used the term pavement for the pedestrian section of the highway. The senior engineer rather firmly informed me that the Pavement was the hard surface between the boundaries of the highway and that the terms I was to use were carriageway and footway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 12 July, 2014, 10:02:12 am
Quote from: Kim on 11 July, 2014, 10:14:55 pm
Except that a footpath is something distinct from a pavement in British law.

Up to a point, Lord Copper - "pavement" is not a legally defined term. I think the distinction you're referring to is between a "footpath" and a "footway", but "footway" sounds a bit prissy and isn't in common use so I prefer to use "footpath" as a general catch-all term.

In any case, whether you use the word "footpath" or "footway", the point is that it carries the implication that it's for pedestrians, not bicycles or parked cars, which "pavement" doesn't.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: nicknack on 12 July, 2014, 10:26:35 am
But, whatever you call it, as you said, you are allowed to cross it. So the answer given is incorrect. Ha!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jsabine on 12 July, 2014, 01:14:25 pm
So too is the one about traffic lights and stop lines, unless I'm wrong to believe you're supposed to enter the box via the little dotted access gate.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jsabine on 12 July, 2014, 01:19:38 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 12 July, 2014, 10:02:12 am
Quote from: Kim on 11 July, 2014, 10:14:55 pm
Except that a footpath is something distinct from a pavement in British law.

Up to a point, Lord Copper - "pavement" is not a legally defined term. I think the distinction you're referring to is between a "footpath" and a "footway", but "footway" sounds a bit prissy and isn't in common use so I prefer to use "footpath" as a general catch-all term.

In any case, whether you use the word "footpath" or "footway", the point is that it carries the implication that it's for pedestrians, not bicycles or parked cars, which "pavement" doesn't.

Footpath to me implies something well separated from a road - if you're trying to avoid pavement, which at least has  the advantage of common usage, I'd be inclined to stick to footway. Prissy or not, it's at least correct and unlikely to be misunderstood.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Reg.T on 12 July, 2014, 02:23:32 pm
"Pavement" seemed ambiguous to me too. For example here:
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/56557612/StationRd.JPG)

A lot of people would say there is a pavement on either side of the carriageway, but the one on the right is a designated non-segregated shared-use path, marked only by occasional blue signs (no paint markings at start, end, or along the length).

AIUI, the path beside a carriageway (commonly known as pavement) is prohibited for cycling (along) unless specifically exempted (such as in the above case), whereas paths that are not alongside roads are available for cyclists unless there is a specific prohibition (normally signed, but not always).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 13 July, 2014, 07:08:09 am
Quote from: jsabine on 12 July, 2014, 01:14:25 pm
So too is the one about traffic lights and stop lines, unless I'm wrong to believe you're supposed to enter the box via the little dotted access gate.

You are correct, instead of changing the law about stopping at the (first) solid line, they added a new one about the little feeder lane.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 13 July, 2014, 10:14:50 am
Quote from: Pickled Onion on 13 July, 2014, 07:08:09 am
Quote from: jsabine on 12 July, 2014, 01:14:25 pm
So too is the one about traffic lights and stop lines, unless I'm wrong to believe you're supposed to enter the box via the little dotted access gate.

You are correct, instead of changing the law about stopping at the (first) solid line, they added a new one about the little feeder lane.

Though a lot of ASLs seem to make do with a gap at the left end of the regular stop line.  I imagine that in theory this makes them accesible to motorbikes...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Reg.T on 13 July, 2014, 08:22:01 pm
So are ones like this for decoration only?  ???
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/56557612/ASL.JPG)
Or is common-sense allowed to prevail?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jsabine on 13 July, 2014, 10:12:45 pm
Quote from: Reg.T on 13 July, 2014, 08:22:01 pm
So are ones like this for decoration only?  ???

I believe that according to the letter of the law, there's no legal way of entering that box on red. (The next thread, of course, will discuss how many angels can fit down a standard width access lane.)

Quote
Or is common-sense allowed to prevail?

I've yet to hear of a cyclist being ticketed for entering the box on red without using the access lane. Mind you, I've yet to hear of anyone being ticketed for entering the box on red.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 14 July, 2014, 10:18:13 am
87.5%  I got the one about red lights wrong.

On pavements, I'm with Kim - if you're going to be pedantic enough to not say "pavement" in a non-engineering, UK-based context, then you ought to be fully pedantic and observe the distinction between footpath and footway.

Anyway,  when's the compulsory baggy clothing law being introduced?  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 14 July, 2014, 11:35:16 am
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 14 July, 2014, 10:18:13 am
On pavements, I'm with Kim - if you're going to be pedantic enough to not say "pavement" in a non-engineering, UK-based context, then you ought to be fully pedantic and observe the distinction between footpath and footway.

It's not pedantry, I just don't like the word pavement. But point taken.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 14 July, 2014, 10:16:20 pm
I'm out in the sticks I know, but Londoners may want to sit down...

Third prize for most generous passing space given to me today goes to....

*drum roll*

Addison Lee 
:thumbsup:  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jakob on 15 July, 2014, 06:50:03 am
I hate bike lanes. There's on in particular on my commute, where it's separated from the road by light vegetation, tall enough to block you from any cars and then in the last 2 meters before an intersection merges again. This means cars have very little chance of seeing you until you are already at the intersection and I always approach it with caution, ready to give the cars the benefit of doubt.
 In any case, the light was red when I approached it and there was already a cyclist & car waiting. It changed to green as I got close and since there was already a cyclist there, I expected the car to yield, but no. A loud 'Oi!!', stopped him and I proceeded. He then tried to bully me into stopping by driving forwards,but as I didn't, he had to take avoiding action and could no longer make his turn. I gave him the finger and he then chased me for 20 meters, before the bike lane segregated again. I was ready to pull out the U-Lock from my back pocket, as he looked like he was about to jump out of his car, but instead he raced ahead and turned away.

A: I need to get a camera, just to document the difference in driver behaviour when I'm on the psycle-lane and when I'm 'on the road'. It's night and day. In the last year, I've had one guy give me aggro on the road. When I'm using the cycle lane, I have to take avoiding action or shout for people to stop, at least once a week.
B: I need to start wagging my finger (or similar not-so-aggressive gestures) rather than 'the finger' gesture. (V-sign doesn't work over here..they think you mean '2').
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Otto on 15 July, 2014, 11:36:10 am
At the junction of Blackfriers Road and The Cut, at the traffic lights several cyclists stopped at the lights,middle aged trendy looking guy on a Boris bike just sailed through the red light. As I passed him I said, in a very friendly manner, " there is an excellent optician back there who can treat colour blindness. He simply replied F*** off. I do love articulate people.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 15 July, 2014, 01:15:45 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 11 July, 2014, 11:53:12 am
Got the pavement one wrong;

http://www.irwinmitchell.com/the-great-british-cycling-quiz.html
62.5% - 3 wrong - Oh the shame.
Boozahol - I didn't read all the answers properly, so picked the "Bikes same as other road users" option.
Red lights - I chose the "never cross the stop line" answer as I wasn't sure of the current state-of-play regarding the legislation governing access to the cycle refuge.
Carrying a passenger - not much to choose between answers C and D IMO.  ("If your bike has been modified" vs. "child under 7 in an approved seat")

I should have read the answers more carefully, and taken a bit more time over thinking.

What irks me is that erring on the side of caution will be treated in the stats as "an err" - i.e. just the same as "you can ride on pavements/through red lights/with no brakes or lights".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 15 July, 2014, 04:22:17 pm
(http://jakal.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/xanthus/Random/HandCyclistCedarsRoad.jpg)

Came up behind this chap at the Northermost Clapham Common cycle path junction with the A3.  I've seen him aroundabout before, although normally a bit further north, near Battersea Park Road and Queen's Circus.  This is the first time I've got a photo of him, courtesy of my Fly6 camera!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 15 July, 2014, 08:29:36 pm
Well I set off for the 16 mile commute at 5:15pm and I'm still not home! Extra miles and now in a pub beer garden waiting for ham, egg and chips. Lovely stuff.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 15 July, 2014, 08:39:05 pm
If you are going to have a visitation, a bench in the sun close by a shop with a track pump makes it all very acceptable
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 15 July, 2014, 09:57:05 pm
Today I followed a Ford Galaxy people carrier.  The driver stopped at a zebra crossing to let a cyclist ride across (I'm not sure whether I approve of cyclists riding across zebra crossings but that's another wossname).  He also let another driver out of a junction.  Remarkable when one considers that the vehicle had "Addison Lee" written in large, unfriendly letters on the tailgate.

Mods: feel free to move to the "Interesting Or Unusual Cars" thread ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: arabella on 15 July, 2014, 10:46:29 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 11 July, 2014, 11:53:12 am
Got the pavement one wrong;

http://www.irwinmitchell.com/the-great-british-cycling-quiz.html

So did I - I said loal rules could make it Ok.  Which was, aparently, wrong.  In spite of [urlhttp://www.cycling-embassy.org.uk/wiki/cyclists-ride-pavements]cycle embassy of great britain[/url] saying that
Quote
Not all “pavement cycling” is illegal. Although by default one is not allowed to cycle on a pavement, it is easy for councils to over-rule the law on a specific pavement, turning it into a “shared-use facility” — a combined footway and cycleway. Sometimes a shared-use path is purpose built, with separate footway and cycleway lanes. More often, it is simply the same old pavement, but with a blue bicycle sign indicating its new status.
The Highways Act 1835 prohibits cycling on a footpath which is "by the side of any road" and "set apart for" use by pedestrians only.   However, even on pavements which are by roads, the separation isn't set in stone - local authorities have the power to create "shared use" paths, where cyclists and pedestrians share pavement space. These paths (or, where the paths are divided, the parts on which cycling is permitted) are no longer set apart for pedestrians, so the Highways Act offence no longer applies.
Or did I miss something?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 16 July, 2014, 10:02:43 am
Quote from: arabella on 15 July, 2014, 10:46:29 pm
Or did I miss something?

It's ambiguous, to say the least.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 16 July, 2014, 11:40:34 am
I managed to snap a pedal yesterday on my way home. Was this due to:

a) My awesome leg power, or
b) My awesome everything-on-the-cheap buying skills?

OK, it was b). Luckily I could still pedal and was a mile from the car. Then in the evening I learned how useful a hammer was in getting pedals off, and now I have the stock Genesis platform pedals on the bike which are single-sided but at least robust. All this and I'm going to cycle all the way to work tomorrow (28 miles). Which should be OK as I'm going out tomorrow night and staying in a hotel near the office, before cycling home on Friday. However I will take the wrench from my crank puller as it has a decent 8mm hex attachment, and the 15mm spanner for the pedals.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 17 July, 2014, 07:31:52 am
28 miles went by without incident, but I don't think the creaking is the cranks. It's definitely something in that area though. Anyway I'm going to tighten the BB at the weekend, if it's loose. I should get the BB tool by tomorrow at the latest.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 17 July, 2014, 10:05:18 am
Interesting one this morning. Woman ahead of me in a BMW Wankpanzer starts to turn left (without indicating, of course), so I come past her, as I'm going straight on, but then it turns out she's actually performing a U-turn, using the side road to give herself a wider turning circle, and not stopping to check the way is clear before completing the manoeuvre...  :o

I apologise to any sensitive souls in the vicinity who overheard the language I used.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 17 July, 2014, 10:10:33 am
Quote from: fields5069 on 16 July, 2014, 11:40:34 am
I managed to snap a pedal yesterday on my way home. Was this due to:

a) My awesome leg power, or
b) My awesome everything-on-the-cheap buying skills?

I've snapped a crank before, which I assumed at the time was due to my awesome leg power, but close inspection after the event revealed a pre-existing crack in the crank that had obviously weakened it.

See also countless stories passim of handlebar, fork and frame failure - damage caused by earlier accidents is often the culprit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 17 July, 2014, 11:34:06 am
This was definitely just some really bad eBay pedals. Lesson learned.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 17 July, 2014, 01:14:10 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 17 July, 2014, 10:05:18 am
... turns out she's actually performing a U-turn, using the side road to give herself a wider turning circle, and not stopping to check the way is clear before completing the manoeuvre...  :o

I think I may have met her last week - huge BMW ahead of me pulled over to the left without signalling then proceeded to make a similarly unsignalled right turn across my path.  I think my shout woke her up from a nice sleep.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 17 July, 2014, 01:44:54 pm
This morning I watched a double decker bus driver sail through a set of lights, clearly totally unaware that they were red. What makes this worth mentioning is that he didn't go through just after they'd changed, they'd been red for several minutes, from before he even left the previous junction. Thankfully no-one was coming the other way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 17 July, 2014, 02:20:18 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 17 July, 2014, 01:14:10 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 17 July, 2014, 10:05:18 am
... turns out she's actually performing a U-turn, using the side road to give herself a wider turning circle, and not stopping to check the way is clear before completing the manoeuvre...  :o

I think I may have met her last week - huge BMW ahead of me pulled over to the left without signalling then proceeded to make a similarly unsignalled right turn across my path.  I think my shout woke her up from a nice sleep.

A dick of truly Herculean stature once did this in front of my motor-car.  On a motorbike.  He is lucky not to be two parts cauliflour to one part Ford.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 17 July, 2014, 02:23:37 pm
Attempted murders aside, it wasn't a bad commute this morning - even better when I uploaded it to Strava and discovered I'd got a PB on Spankers Hill (up past the ballet school), which was a pleasant surprise.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 17 July, 2014, 07:47:22 pm
Mist work-bound this morning, arms, or at least the hair thereon, lots of droplets on them.  Indeed it was quite chilly at points.

Home-bound, blimey but that was hot. Unpleasantly so. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 17 July, 2014, 11:19:26 pm
It was slow on the way home today.
And after my chain came off I realised that it is rather overdue a clean and de-slackening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 18 July, 2014, 08:39:19 am
My legs and glutes were on fire this morning, from yesterday's physio session time in the hospital torture dungeon.

So I wimped out of cycling to work. Stepped onto bus, bus driver says "Thought you'd be on your bike today.".

Called out by the damn bus driver.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 18 July, 2014, 09:36:35 am
At least he notices you!   First buses have some real cowboys around here.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 18 July, 2014, 09:37:45 am
Quote from: mrcharly on 18 July, 2014, 08:39:19 am
My legs and glutes were on fire this morning, from yesterday's physio session time in the hospital torture dungeon.
This, although in my case it was a result of riding singlespeed instead of fixed  ???

Anyway, I'm expecting a package today which is definitely not bike portable and I forgot that my 'default' delivery address is to work and forgot to change the order in time  ::-) (I wanted it delivered to home so I wouldn't have to drive to work - so it goes)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 18 July, 2014, 09:39:09 am
Quote from: Peter on 18 July, 2014, 09:36:35 am
At least he notices you!   First buses have some real cowboys around here.
I suspect this might have been the Coastliner - they have rather a large number of ex-Farce York drivers working for them, though. I suspect that better working conditions may be one of the reasons why they're considerably less psychotic than their First counterparts.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 18 July, 2014, 10:03:10 am
He was freewheeling down the hill at a considerable speed on a black, flat-barred bike. I couldn't tell at that distance whether it was a hybrid, mountain bike or what. When he got closer, I saw he was juggling the commuter's twin essentials - a cup of coffee in his right hand and a fag in mouth. Go Dutch? Looks like we already have!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 18 July, 2014, 10:45:50 am
Basingstoke to London today - gusty headwinds most of the way (but very fickle - sometimes it was a calm summers morning) and some debris on the roads from the overnight storms.  Richmond Park was almost empty - are Londoners fair-weather cyclists or are they just fearful of the Friday night rush-hour?  Nice to see new road surface through Lower Sunbury; Surrey CC have obviously discovered a small supply of tarmac from somewhere.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 18 July, 2014, 05:41:20 pm
Bolleux!  I've just been doored.
The Bike:  No apparent damage.  I'll check again properly tomorrow.
Me:  Small graze to right elbow.  Several still bleeding cuts and abrasions to left ankle and toes.  Sandals don't offer an awful lot of protection if your foot slams into the road top first.
Fault:  Well, both of us innit?  Him for not looking, obv, and me cos I really should know better than to stray into the door zone.

Just goes to show how often we get away with it, I suppose.  1 second earlier or later we'd have gotten away with it.

The driver was in absolute bits about it.  Almost crying in his anguish.  And once we'd agreed that I'd be getting up when I was ready to do so, we got on like bestest of friends.  He agreed to take more care in future.

I've repaired to YouKnowWhere and am applying muscle relaxant.  I may be some time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 July, 2014, 05:50:22 pm
GWS Basil.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: woollypigs on 18 July, 2014, 06:13:17 pm
Oh bother GWS!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: barakta on 18 July, 2014, 06:37:37 pm
Glad you're alright Basil. Hope the muscle relaxant works well. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 18 July, 2014, 07:44:49 pm
Quote from: barakta on 18 July, 2014, 06:37:37 pm
Glad you're alright Basil. Hope the muscle relaxant works well.
Thanks b.  I'm not sure if the first dose worked, so I'm giving it another chance with a second application.   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 18 July, 2014, 07:57:38 pm
Yeabut, the driver did buy your first dose, right?

Glad you're ok, apart from the elbow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 19 July, 2014, 09:45:11 pm
Quote from: Basil on 18 July, 2014, 05:41:20 pm
Bolleux!  I've just been doored.
The Bike:  No apparent damage.  I'll check again properly tomorrow. ...

At the risk of explaining how to suck eggs, feel on the underside of the downtube, just behind the headtube.  If there's a ripple there, the frame is damaged.  With a very minor ripple, you may decide to risk it, and continue to use the frame (I have in the past).  That's typically where the frame will initially be affected in a head on collision.  Obviously other damage can be done, and should also be checked for, but the downtube is the first thing I would check in these sort of circumstances.

Glad to hear that nothing worse appears to have happened to you, or the bike.  I hope you enjoyed the muscle relaxant. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 19 July, 2014, 10:02:13 pm
Quote from: TimO on 19 July, 2014, 09:45:11 pm
At the risk of explaining how to suck eggs,

No probs Tim, and thanks.  I'm always open and happy to receive advice in these matters.

Unfortunately the foot situation is much worse than was immediately evident.  Broken toe and open rip tear which probably should be given a stitch. But I really can't be doing with hours waiting in A&E so I'm attempting a bandage pull together myself. [/bloke]
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 19 July, 2014, 10:09:16 pm
Friday and Saturday evenings aren't the best time to wait in A&E.  I don't think there's generally much they can do for a broken toe anyway, other than strap it up, to limit movement.  You could always use cyanoacrylate adhesive (aka Super Glue) on the cut, it has been used for that purpose, although it can be a skin irritant.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Clare on 20 July, 2014, 01:02:46 am
bloke solution: squirt superglue in the cut and push the edges together. tape the broken toe to the next one along to help stabilise it.

Hope that's as bad as it gets and that you get well very soon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 20 July, 2014, 12:01:57 pm
Last week I was wondering where have all the commuters gone.  I normally ride on Orange bike which is single speed made of Reynolds 725 and has 28mm tyres. It takes me, slightly unfit and slightly fat, 1 hour 15 minutes to get home.  Orange bike is currently in the bike hospital awaiting a chainring transplant.  So as the weather has been nice I have been commuting on Red bike which is Reynolds 853 and 23mm tyres. It takes me slightly less time to get home 1 hour and 5 minutes.  I am not passed or do I pass anyone not on a BSO. Then on Wednesday the weather liars asserted it was going to rain so I used Green bike.  Green bike is made of Reynolds 531 tourist tubes and has 32mm tyres. It takes me 1 hour 20 minutes to get home.  So this time I am passed by one of the usual riders.  On Friday back on Red bike I found myself closing rapidly on one of the other bikes that passes Orange bike. So I have concluded the commuters have not gone away but I do not see them because I am moving at the roughly the same speed as them.
   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 20 July, 2014, 03:23:58 pm
I have just tested my handiwork on my left foot.  It occurred to me that as I don't use my toes to pedal with, I might be better off riding slowly to work tomorrow rather than train and walk.
Walking is painful due to toe flex.  The first thing I noticed was how much more comfortable I was as soon as I put my cycling shoes on.  Much stiffer sole - much less toe flex.  I'll be wearing them all day in the office tomorrow.  :thumbsup:
The test ride also has gone well.  Much less uncomfortable than walking.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 20 July, 2014, 03:55:41 pm
I've had a couple of months of toe and footmagedon, by half way through the working day I'm shuffling and swearing away like a deranged, B12 deficient veteran. Solid soled cycling shoes are the happiest place for my feet to be. The day I took the tube to work I was so stamped on, kicked and  utterly fed up of side stepping idiots that I can't quite work out how I expelled the rage without any seeming casualties.
Take care, and ride the bike, especially if you don't have to deal with London cabbies (they've being doing their best to top up the rage that cycling should dissipate).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 21 July, 2014, 07:28:07 am
So, to recap, my plan on being left feeling lost at only commuting once last week, was to ride in the whole way on Thursday morning, go out on the lash on Thursday night, and ride home on Friday afternoon. 28 miles each way, a manageable but pretty long ride for me at the moment. Thursday morning went by without incident, though I was amazed at the temperature drop on the A48 between Newport and Chepstow, whenever I went from an area with houses to one with open fields. It was a bit chilly at 5:30-6ish with a thin merino short-sleeve top under a basic poly cycling top, but not too bad.

The real challenge was Friday afternoon.  I had the usual muscle fatigue from drinking alcohol and standing in the same position for too long. I wasn't as sick as a dog, but was dehydrated and tired enough for it to be a bit of a challenge. Also, the A48 is not quite the same at 5pm on a Friday. There was quite a bit of traffic, mostly of the good kind but enough close passing to make me feel a little vulnerable. Anyway, I made it home, in act I even managed to grind all the way up Parkwall Hill to the Indian Empire on the single speed. My legs were destroyed so yesterday I just had a bit of a spin to check my BB tightening skills, which are good because the creaking has now stopped.

It's something I may try all in one day, especially in the coming weeks when taxi duties are relaxed due to school hols. It probably only adds 30 minutes to my journey, and hopefully my legs will be in slightly better shape for the return leg this time.

My night out was in Bristol, and my goodness I can see why it's so popular for cyclists. They were everywhere, which at times seemed a bit dicey, as none of the shared use paths seemed to offer any suggestion of segregation and it all seemed a bit random. Good to see though, generally.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 21 July, 2014, 08:50:15 am
Hoorah!  Cycled to work.  The only time I hurt was walking to and from the bike.

Boo.  Found I'd left my pannier at home when I was locking up the bike.  So I'm sitting here in Humvee long cut shorts and an inappropriate top.  AND no sandwiches!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 21 July, 2014, 10:28:52 am
Hoo boy, you can tell that the schools have broken up - hordes of undisciplined hellspawn on scooters and bikes with their parents wandering along in a daze either texting or with their phone nailed to the side of their head  ::-)

On the plus side, I've managed to wrangle myself a new route which is a) more interesting than the 'usual' one and b) about 5km longer.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 21 July, 2014, 08:48:17 pm
When I got to the swing bridge by the Limehouse Basin, the barriers were down. I've never seen it open before, so like most people I waited for it to open rather than going around the other way.

So there's a crowd of us.

And along comes another cyclist who cycles to the front of the crowd, right up to the barrier, past us mortals. And, slowly, topples over and hits the ground as he comes to a stop. And then can't get out of his pedals.

There was a lot of smirking from the other cyclists.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: closetleftie on 22 July, 2014, 07:46:14 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 21 July, 2014, 08:48:17 pm
When I got to the swing bridge by the Limehouse Basin, the barriers were down. I've never seen it open before, so like most people I waited for it to open rather than going around the other way.

So there's a crowd of us.

And along comes another cyclist who cycles to the front of the crowd, right up to the barrier, past us mortals. And, slowly, topples over and hits the ground as he comes to a stop. And then can't get out of his pedals.

There was a lot of smirking from the other cyclists.

It's a rite of passage, innit? We've all done it*.  ;D

That'll be why he ended up cycling to the front of the group: trying desperately to unclip.  ;D ;D








*Mine, incidentally, happened in front of a bus queue of school children.  :-[ :-[ :-[ ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 22 July, 2014, 10:26:35 am
I rode home last night after work ,after dark for the first time in over 15 years
It was just comfortable  still temperature wise at 2300hrs for shorts & s/sleeves.
It was almost sublime,really enjoyed it & an ideal way to end the working day

I really do like night riding & it's good practice for 01/08 & 19/08.

Next to no traffic on the A522 but lots of road kill.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jogler on 22 July, 2014, 10:50:40 am
I have decided that there will be no cycle commute today :(

I had chronic cramp last night,sufficient to wake me up with extreme pain.

My right calf is still tight & sore.I reckon the car's accelerator will be appropriate today ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLemming on 22 July, 2014, 11:27:41 am
3000ft of hill reps yesterday, surprisingly todays commute was rather slow....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mustgettaller on 22 July, 2014, 12:57:07 pm
18 years ago Jess started commuting to work in front of me, on the crossbar seat of my bike.

Today she's in front of me again, but commuting on her own bike.  :)

Spectacular views over Portsmouth and the Solent on the way to her job at Portchester.

(http://i62.tinypic.com/rvixi8.jpg)

Yes, she's a bit red-faced from the climb, "I need to get fitter, Dad!".

Off topic warning - not that she's unfit. This is what she does when she's not cycling or working: http://youtu.be/lFlQ2FIk2Mo?list=PLdVPwTHOwrWDLSgXJlolA_Jxpb4SfNYHh (http://youtu.be/lFlQ2FIk2Mo?list=PLdVPwTHOwrWDLSgXJlolA_Jxpb4SfNYHh) . She's steering in the onboard shots (starting at 1:18) - they came 2nd.  8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 23 July, 2014, 07:43:09 am
I decided to ride in the whole way today, and back in the evening - 28 miles each way. That'll be the longest mileage in a day by a long way, however preparation wasn't ideal as I slept about 2 hours last night (not an exaggeration). The combination of heat, my need for closed windows to shut out noise, a curious attack of stomach churn and an unruly 9-year-old with no school for 6 weeks all conspired against me. I don't feel too bad now though, at least I will be in no rush this evening and can take a few breaks if needed.

A Hovis van decided to pass very close on a deserted and quite wide road. Twice. Apart from that, everyone was very nice. It always seems to be motorcyclists who pass with most space though. ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 23 July, 2014, 12:37:22 pm
Eejit taxi driver (is there any other sort?) tried to come out of the junction where I got knocked off a few weeks ago as I was passing  :facepalm: :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 24 July, 2014, 09:12:54 am
That was a surprise. I left home late after just pottering around the house without any urgency. I thought I was riding along in the same slovenly fashion. There were a few fast bits on the roads that give me joy but overall I expected a steady but just about on time ride. As I arrived at work I checked my watch and realised I had just done my first sub hour commute for several years.  Sunny days in the school holidays are great  :) 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 24 July, 2014, 09:40:29 am
Quote from: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 18 July, 2014, 10:45:50 am
Basingstoke to London today - gusty headwinds most of the way (but very fickle - sometimes it was a calm summers morning) and some debris on the roads from the overnight storms.  Richmond Park was almost empty - are Londoners fair-weather cyclists or are they just fearful of the Friday night rush-hour? Nice to see new road surface through Lower Sunbury; Surrey CC have obviously discovered a small supply of tarmac from somewhere.
Yes, that stretch is sublime. Just a shame that about a week after laying it, some new services were needed for the pub that's being refurbished on the double bend, and the glorious new surface has been despoiled !!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 24 July, 2014, 10:15:01 am
"Schools' out for Summer!"

… with the usual consequence of far far emptier roads than normal. Huzzah. No more frantic driving, hazardous parking, let-me-through-i'm-a-mother-can't-anyone-see-how-more-important-my-darling-daughter-is-above-anything!!?"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 24 July, 2014, 11:10:06 am
Woke up 40 minutes late (must have turned alarm off rather than the intended snooze. Was just able to get ready quickly enough to cycle rather than drive in.

And was rewarded with a lovely ride albeit headwindy. Still, should make the ride home a nice pootle.

I should have just got up at half four when I awoke to shut the bedroom door as the light from the bathroom window was disturbing me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 25 July, 2014, 10:20:21 am
Lovely trip in this morning. One of those where most of the lights are green and the traffic is benign. The only downer was the headwind but I decided I was in too good a mood to let it get me down!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 25 July, 2014, 12:48:32 pm
I was passed by two cyclists today.  I am sure both of them are fitter and faster than me. 

The first.  I was trundling along pondering the hedge beside the road.  This field has probably never been used for livestock. The main plants seem to be ferns and stingy nettles. Then I am passed by a lady in lycra on a plastic bike. I have no problem being passed by fast people. On the next climb my hedge pondering stops and I switch to climbing mode and I sometime find when I am passed on the flat or downhill I have no choice but to climb past them to maintain a comfortable cadence.

The second.  As I have plenty of time I am riding to work via Coity. Long downhill and castle route. As I am climbing the Llan road near Heol y Cyw I am passed by a rider wearing Ogwr wheelers livery. I think another one faster than me but I think as I start the descent time to deploy my secret weapon. I am a slightly overweight cyclist so I freewheel slightly faster than racing snakes on the downhills.  Sure enough as we reached the bottom I had closed the gap and was moving much faster. I hit the bottom of the next hill then applied full power so I could continue to the top of the hill without losing all the benefit of the descent. I stamp on the pedals pass Mr Ogwr and power up the hill.  I turn left towards work before he gets to his right turn.  I never saw him again.

So CTF defeats two faster cyclists using cunning and superior race craft. Not really, but I do enjoy summer commutes to work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 25 July, 2014, 01:01:11 pm
I had the lovely luxury of a four man peloton between Kingston and Hampton Court today, where the lead rider peeled off. Being older, not on an overt race machine, and having panniers, (and they all being in team kit and mudguardless bikes) I had no qualms about tagging on as Tail End Charlie. Instead of my regular 18mph plod I was sucked along at a rather invigorating 23mph. They did all the hand signal things for me and I pulled out well ahead of obstacles to prevent any following cars breaking us up. I gave them a very heartfelt thanks when they peeled off at the Hampton waterworks.

One thing that has always puzzled me about the way these guys typically ride though. The rarely look over their shoulders and don't show any evidence of looking too far ahead. There were about three sets of obstacles (parked vehicles) and they left pulling out until they were a matter of less than 10 yards away. Even at the back I could see the need to pull out and was in place well before that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 25 July, 2014, 01:27:52 pm
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 25 July, 2014, 12:48:32 pm
I was passed by two cyclists today.  I am sure both of them are fitter and faster than me. 

The first.  I was trundling along pondering the hedge beside the road.  This field has probably never been used for livestock. The main plants seem to be ferns and stingy nettles. Then I am passed by a lady in lycra on a plastic bike. I have no problem being passed by fast people. On the next climb my hedge pondering stops and I switch to climbing mode and I sometime find when I am passed on the flat or downhill I have no choice but to climb past them to maintain a comfortable cadence.

The second.  As I have plenty of time I am riding to work via Coity. Long downhill and castle route. As I am climbing the Llan road near Heol y Cyw I am passed by a rider wearing Ogwr wheelers livery. I think another one faster than me but I think as I start the descent time to deploy my secret weapon. I am a slightly overweight cyclist so I freewheel slightly faster than racing snakes on the downhills.  Sure enough as we reached the bottom I had closed the gap and was moving much faster. I hit the bottom of the next hill then applied full power so I could continue to the top of the hill without losing all the benefit of the descent. I stamp on the pedals pass Mr Ogwr and power up the hill.  I turn left towards work before he gets to his right turn.  I never saw him again.

So CTF defeats two faster cyclists using cunning and superior race craft. Not really, but I do enjoy summer commutes to work.

This is Silly Commuter Racing (SCR). It is a thing. Welcome to it!

http://www.bikeradar.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=40012&t=12575770

;)  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 25 July, 2014, 08:59:43 pm
Quote from: hatler on 25 July, 2014, 01:01:11 pm
Instead of my regular 18mph plod
18mph is not a plod!  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Bunker22 on 25 July, 2014, 09:16:11 pm
Driving home today (I know  :( ) I saw a cyclist coming the other way who had a car sitting on his wheel waiting to pass. The car behind that one was getting impatient and hooted. That caused the first car to think about pulling around the cyclist just as the second car followed up his hoot with an attempted overtake, which he stopped half way pulled out,as the first car also pulled out. Lucky really, as another car behind the second one decided to overtake bike, car  1 and car 2 at speed by pulling into my lane and forcing me towards the verge. Left me gob smacked that someone would even think of doing that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 28 July, 2014, 08:14:48 am
I decided yesterday that I would cycle in every day this week, either part of the way or the whole way. Since stopping running I don't feel that I'm spending the same amount of calories any more, and the scales pretty much agree with me. It's only a matter of a few kilos, but to my mind anybody with my frame (light to medium I'd say) and height (5'9") should be able to maintain their weight at 70kg or under, so off they come.

Anyway, I had a pretty good night's sleep last night, woke up pretty early, so decided to ride in the whole way today. The ride passed without incident, with a slightly faster average speed than the previous 2 attempts (~15.5 mph), and a good feeling that I think my bother with cranks and bottom brackets is over, for now. There are periodic clusters of gentle knocking noises, nothing I think to worry myself about though. I'll probably try either Thursday or Friday as well. I get the idea that I need to be aiming for 150-ish miles per week, and I can't rely on weekend rides, although I should be able to do about 4 hours on a Saturday morning if I can wake up early enough.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulSter on 28 July, 2014, 09:50:31 am
Checked out the weather ... possible light showers ... no problem ... got on the bicycle ... 5 miles down the road ... thunder lightning very very frightening ... soaked to the skin ... 5 miles later dripped into the office ... surrounded now by lightly steaming clothing ... warm cup of something ... cheers and thanks BBC weather
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 28 July, 2014, 09:13:52 pm
Much, much numptiness. Exactly how does one overturn a car in the middle of Brixton at nine in the morning?
Three successive junctions where MGIF cyclists arrive late at the lights, jump everyone else on the right and make a beeline for the kerb without a glance to their inside. I dropped back twice to give the same guy room, the first time warning him gently 'Inside, still here.' The second time, again gently, 'Same again.' The second time I allowed no opportunity for wheel overlaps but was nearly collected by the motorist looking to execute a punishment pass on the other guy, who by ducking in to the kerb put me in the firing line.
I held a consistent line, made space for his mistakes and yet because I mentioned five innocuous words in his presence, I'm a dick.
The other rider actually hit me, but he was alongside rather than overlapping and also completely clueless which makes it easier to bear.
The fairy got me well and proper.
Left hooked from the right hand lane on the way home as well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 29 July, 2014, 08:16:30 am
Quote from: benborp on 28 July, 2014, 09:13:52 pm
Much, much numptiness. Exactly how does one overturn a car in the middle of Brixton at nine in the morning?

One scenario which springs to mind is a moton who must overtake that pesky cyclist at all costs without considering the implications of offside wheels/traffic island interaction.

Happened near Larrington Towers a Several of years ago.  Berk inna Merc + island + lamp-post with electricity leaked out of its cruelly-exposed bottom = traffic chaos and lots of cross firemen.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 29 July, 2014, 09:35:34 am
Oddly "interesting" this morning.
Within the first two miles I had
one pointless overtake 20 meters from the back of a queue
one pointless overtake and then turn left - not quite a left hook, but that was down to my awareness, not the driver's.
one cement truck cut in too early due to artic coming the other way

Nearer work I had
one attempt to undertake me on a right turn which would have left me hanging out to dry.


This sort of stuff is not really normal in quantity on my commute.  Is it the weather?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: caerau on 29 July, 2014, 11:05:25 am
Oppositley to what someone posted above I'm finding more numptiness of this order at the moment precisely *because* the roads are quieter with schools out and people on hols.


I rather like it when I can just coast up the middle of the ginormous traffic jams instead of being exposed to close passes and risky overtakes on approaches to roundabouts when they're going to have to stop and give way anyway.  I prefer it when they can't move.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Otto on 29 July, 2014, 11:24:27 am
Seduced by the sunshine I decided to take a route I hadn't taken for a while, Chalk pit lane 20% gradient... in hindsight probably not a good Idea on a heavy steel bike with panniers and a hub gear, the Garmin paused a couple of times thinking I had stopped!... made it up in one gasping piece without walking though. Will sleep well tonight
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 29 July, 2014, 11:28:20 am
Quote from: Caerau on 29 July, 2014, 11:05:25 am
Oppositley to what someone posted above I'm finding more numptiness of this order at the moment precisely *because* the roads are quieter with schools out and people on hols.


I rather like it when I can just coast up the middle of the ginormous traffic jams instead of being exposed to close passes and risky overtakes on approaches to roundabouts when they're going to have to stop and give way anyway.  I prefer it when they can't move.

Yup.  I agree.  I've always thought this and often wonder how others manage to find faster flowing traffic easier to negotiate.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 29 July, 2014, 11:32:56 am
Probably a matter of what you're more used to.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 29 July, 2014, 11:48:47 am
Quote from: Mr Larrington on 29 July, 2014, 08:16:30 am
Quote from: benborp on 28 July, 2014, 09:13:52 pm
Much, much numptiness. Exactly how does one overturn a car in the middle of Brixton at nine in the morning?

One scenario which springs to mind is a moton who must overtake that pesky cyclist at all costs without considering the implications of offside wheels/traffic island interaction.

Happened near Larrington Towers a Several of years ago.  Berk inna Merc + island + lamp-post with electricity leaked out of its cruelly-exposed bottom = traffic chaos and lots of cross firemen.
Hmm. Some of the most satisfying moments of all my urban cycling have been getting my line past an island just right---a little late movement fading to the off side---so that the moton has to drop anchor when they notice what they're heading for. On the other hand I wouldn't want the Mobile Death Greenhouse to catch an edge and come looping up towards me at gully.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 29 July, 2014, 12:57:11 pm
When I cycle all the way to work and home, on the return leg I get quite a bit of fast moving traffic, on the A48 between Chepstow and The Coldra roundabout in Newport. Most of the passes are fine, a few are inexplicably stupid like refusing to cross into the outside lane on a stretch of dual-carriageway or refusing to enter the hatched no-man's-land. I am learning quickly though - there's a stretch where there are 3 or 4 very long traffic islands and a slight incline, and now I take primary so that nothing can come past. Go me.

There's a "better" route apparently, starting just north of the A48/A466 roundabout, which appears to consist mainly of single-track lanes and is designated National Cycle Network Route 4. At first I nearly wet myself and dreamt that it was actually a cycle lane closed to traffic. Then I woke up and realised that this simply could not be the case! Is this considered generally safer? I suppose nothing can get past, so it relies on me being a bit nice and stopping every now and then if there is traffic. I may try it this Friday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hulver on 29 July, 2014, 12:59:24 pm
Stopped to help a couple of ladies on the TPT on my way back to work. The sustrans path had had its way with one of their tyres, and required a tube change. They didn't really seem to need my help, but took up the offer and let me pump up the tyre for them. It was still up when I left them, having relieved them of a plaster to cover a skinned thumb that I got putting the wheel back on the bike.

I hope the rest of their day was fairy free.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 30 July, 2014, 02:18:19 pm
Gorgeous run in today from the bridge. It was a bit chilly and I needed the long-sleeved merino top under my cycling top. I'll need to stop wearing mesh running shoes soon as the air just goes straight through them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 31 July, 2014, 07:32:02 am
28 miles in today. I'm going to try cycle route 4 to get me home, at least until the "new" M4 bypass from Magor to Spytty Road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 31 July, 2014, 11:50:13 am
Slow going this morning except for a lovely bit of SCR in Richmond Park. Totally pwned a roadie on a very expensive looking bike on the incline from Sheen Cross up to the ballet school.  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 31 July, 2014, 01:18:28 pm
On the way home I got biffed on the hand by a car. Overtook me then pulled in on top of me, rear passenger wing hit my hand. No damage to anything, just a "WTF?" moment.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 31 July, 2014, 01:52:50 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 31 July, 2014, 01:18:28 pm
Overtook me then pulled in on top of me, rear passenger wing hit my hand. No damage to anything, just a "WTF?" moment.

Oh, you cyclist, you. If you were a footballer, you'd have gone down like you'd been shot.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 31 July, 2014, 07:43:08 pm
A suicidal leveret this morning; ran straight towards me and then thought better of it and headed towards the verge.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 01 August, 2014, 08:00:35 am
Quote from: fields5069 on 31 July, 2014, 07:32:02 am
28 miles in today. I'm going to try cycle route 4 to get me home, at least until the "new" M4 bypass from Magor to Spytty Road.

Right, now I need a definition of the "C" in NCN. It would appear that "cycle" is incorrect. NCN 4 from the A466/Mounton Road starts off well enough, albeit on single-track lane, some of it in pretty bad shape and patched up with bits of tarmac here and there. Down onto the A48, then off into Caerwent. Under the M48 and into Caldicot, everything OK so far. Out of Caldicot and under the M4 was OK, but then it all went pear-shaped. To be fair, openstreetmap shows the route as a blue dotted line, which I thought meant "cycle path". And, sure enough, signs confirmed I was still on NCN 4. The road, however, had turned into a wide dirt track full of 2-3 inch sharp stones. Now, I had already used my inner tube on a puncture earlier in the day, so I had everything crossed. In hindsight I should have doubled back, however I decided to soldier on. I appeared to have emerged unscathed about 15 minutes later when terra plana was reached, and luckily what I did get was pretty slow in deflating, but the lack of air in the front tyre was surely not helping me fight against the wind when at last I did reach the A4810 by-pass.

So in future it would probably be prudent to take the Caldicot by-pass, all the way to the new A4810 "Queen's Way", or at least shadow it on back roads, all the way through Magor, Undy etc.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 01 August, 2014, 09:34:46 am
NFN*





*Normal for NCN
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 01 August, 2014, 10:38:04 am
I think it's just a mistake on the signage. It should actually spelt with a silent X between the C and the second N as in many places it does feel more like a National Cyclocross Network :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 01 August, 2014, 10:49:18 am
Quote from: mcshroom on 01 August, 2014, 10:38:04 am
I think it's just a mistake on the signage. It should actually spelt with a silent X between the C and the second N as in many places it does feel more like a National Cyclocross Network :)

Yehbutt, I was on a Genesis Day One!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 01 August, 2014, 11:26:57 am
The Dutch helpfully divide their cycle routes into those with red and green signs. The red ones are for vehicular cycling with efficient routes from A to B, while the green ones are "scenic" (though for lack of proper scenery in the Netherlands they have to rely on headwinds, pointlessly indirect routes and unmade surfaces).

NCN routes, as everyone knows, oscillate at random between the two types when they're not specially British glass-ridden cutthroughs around the back of an industrial estate taking three sides of a rectangle just to get fifty metres away from an urban B road for a quarter of a mile. Even the campaigners for the UK to go Dutch can't do it right.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Vince on 01 August, 2014, 11:36:37 am
But some of the red signs are a bit too direct. I know of a couple that consist of a 15cm wide cycle path then a 30 cm strip of grass between the cycle path and the canal. Oh and crushed shells for the surface dressing can get exciting at speed!

ETA. To be fair, Google street view reveals that the one I was thinking of has been replaced with a smooth tarmac path about a metre and a half wide. There are others though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 03 August, 2014, 07:24:13 am
On the commute last week, was leap-frogging a large businessman-style-car between successive red lights on the Gray's Inn Rd. Inside the large businessman-style-car was a large businessman, in business attire. Each time we passed each other there was an intersting aroma. Closer inspection revealed the interesting aroma was indeed coming from the car as the large businessman was smoking a joint.  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 04 August, 2014, 08:57:23 am
It turns out that the double slow puncture was my fault entirely - I committed the cardinal sin and didn't check the tyre for the tiny thorn. Thank goodness it was a slow one.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 04 August, 2014, 07:19:39 pm
Not far from home, a complete cockwomble in an SUV deliberately drove into me, pushing me out the way. No damage to me or bike.

Never had that happen before.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 04 August, 2014, 07:56:31 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 04 August, 2014, 07:19:39 pm
Not far from home, a complete cockwomble in an SUV deliberately drove into me, pushing me out the way. No damage to me or bike.

Never had that happen before.

That's not good news. Can you vary that part of your route for a few days in case he's a regular on that stretch of road at that time of night?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 04 August, 2014, 09:16:27 pm
Quote from: SlowCoach on 04 August, 2014, 07:56:31 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 04 August, 2014, 07:19:39 pm
Not far from home, a complete cockwomble in an SUV deliberately drove into me, pushing me out the way. No damage to me or bike.

Never had that happen before.

That's not good news. Can you vary that part of your route for a few days in case he's a regular on that stretch of road at that time of night?
I could - I'm not inclined to, tbh. I think he was a pathetic shouter who probably shocked himself with what he did. I gave the car a hefty slap as it shoved past me.
He had a (female) passenger who looked distinctly unimpressed with him (she was hiding her face as he shouted at me), as did the other cars who were on the roundabout at the time. Two of them took my turnoff and very carefully indicated and moved right over before overtaking me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Diver300 on 04 August, 2014, 09:52:52 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 04 August, 2014, 07:19:39 pm
Not far from home, a complete cockwomble in an SUV deliberately drove into me, pushing me out the way. No damage to me or bike.

Never had that happen before.

Isn't that assault with deadly weapon?

Report it.

As it wasn't premeditated, you didn't get hurt, you're not a policeman, it wasn't religiously or racially motivated, and the weapon was to hand and not carried for the purpose, it is unlikely to get anyone locked up.



Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 05 August, 2014, 07:48:41 am
Sounds nasty! I've noticed the odd close pass on my route, and it does get quite busy but alternative routes add 3 or 4 miles if I'm doing the whole work to home trip. In the morning, when traffic is low, I try to move out ever so slightly when I hear a car approaching from behind, then move in again as it's overtaking.

I avoided Tattooine (aka the Caldicott to Magor stretch of NCN 4) yesterday afternoon, but to do that I had to use a mile or so of the Caldicot bypass, which was as busy as the A48 I'm trying to avoid and not so wide.

I am a bit injured now though. I raised my saddle a couple of days ago, checked I still wasn't over-extending my legs, and used that setting to cycle to work and back yesterday, with the result that I have hurty bits behind my knees. Today's ride in has made it much worse, even though I lowered the saddle a bit yesterday evening. I suspect the damage has been done and I'm being foolish making it worse. This morning I was slower by about 10 seconds per mile, but it's the first time that I've done the whole journey 2 days in a row, and I have hurty bits. I still have 28 miles to do this evening, but I think they'll be quite slow. Good job I'm working from home tomorrow, hopefully I will recover sufficiently to cycle all the way on Thursday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 05 August, 2014, 05:24:41 pm
Dear Mr Tiny Penis, just because your tiny car is not giving you enough of a genital extension, parping your horn repeatedly at me while trying to smear me all over the bridge is not going to make it any bigger. And as for hovering in front of me, were you expecting me to come and have a fight with you? I'm might be a stroppy cow but I'm not stupid. *heads for emergency chocolate stash*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 06 August, 2014, 07:49:32 am
Well I lowered the saddle back down before yesterday's commute home, and actually set some PRs on Strava, even with sore tendons and the start of a "bit of a virus". Odd.

It was quite nice, riding through the levels to the east of Newport. Quite nice, that is, until the number 62 bus got a bit too close for comfort. What's wrong with a beep of the horn? I could have stopped, or made sure I was well in to the side of the road.

I'm still choosing a route home in the evenings. Yesterday I decided to get off the A48 and on to the Caldicot bypass (B something). What a mistake! An A road with lots of traffic seems quite a bit safer than a B road with lots of traffic. As soon as I could, i.e. in Magor, I turned off onto the lanes through the levels. Saw quite a few roadies around here, I think the roads around the marshes are quite popular, although obviously very flat. I used the nice new cycle path by the side of the A4810, and was passed quite effortlessly (it seemed) by someone in full TT gear - solid back wheel, weird helmet etc. Nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 08 August, 2014, 09:07:20 am
What a perfect morning. Weather conditions and (lack of) traffic conspired to get me to work 19 seconds quicker than my previous best, with only the same amount of effort as usual :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 08 August, 2014, 01:42:45 pm
It looks like this afternoon will be a good time to find out how Schwalbe Luganos behave in the wet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tom_e on 08 August, 2014, 08:37:50 pm
Well that was wet. Very wet. Soaked to the skin by rain, then feet submerged when I hadn't realised the road surface dropped a bit lower, lightning and thunder for added erk. Wet.

Edit: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-beds-bucks-herts-28713677 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-beds-bucks-herts-28713677)

Beer. Beer and sofa. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 11 August, 2014, 11:18:23 am
Stopped at the first set of lights and received a whiff that indicated that the cat has pissed in my rucksack again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 11 August, 2014, 11:51:14 am
Jesus Herbert Walker Christ, it was windy this morning ... and a tailwind too, which bodes well for the ride home(!)

Several sets of traffic light failure in town, meaning that the idiot ball was almost constantly in play and doing the rounds of the attendant motorists. This notwithstanding, the traffic was flowing rather better than normal - not sure whether this is a York thing but when traffic lights go titsup there's generally far less congestion.

First 'proper' outing for the El Mariachi with flat'n'spiky pedals too.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 11 August, 2014, 12:51:14 pm
It was rainbow weather this morning.  First third dry. Second third I looked up and saw a rainbow.  I thought perhaps I will have one of those rides on recently wet roads and none on me.  Then the rain god having apologised noticed he had missed someone and turned his bucket upside down and I needed to put my coat on. The third third was dry.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 11 August, 2014, 05:24:54 pm
First cycle for two weeks. Been on m'hollybobs in Portugal.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 11 August, 2014, 08:48:16 pm
Blimey that was a strong headwind home. A good portion of the time I was sub 10mph. Admittedly I slip into cruise pace rather easily and probably could have pushed harder and gone faster but it all seemed a bit like hard work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 11 August, 2014, 11:36:59 pm
Waterloo roundabout.

Motorist coming off the bridge didn't give way to the cyclist (yours truly) heading across to Southwark Street.

It was only the tingling of my Spidey Sense that made me think applying the brakes would be a good idea.

I voiced my opinion of his driving. He had his window open, so heard me. He stopped and got out of his car. Suggested that because I had used the kind of language that's not suitable for the ears of the poor delicate children, I was the one in the wrong. Offered to knock my teeth out for me. Considerate.

Big chap. I decided cowardice was the better part of valour.

No one was hurt, we went on with our lives.

Cunt.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 11 August, 2014, 11:59:50 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 11 August, 2014, 11:36:59 pm
Waterloo roundabout.

Motorist coming off the bridge didn't give way to the cyclist (yours truly) heading across to Southwark Street.

It was only the tingling of my Spidey Sense that made me think applying the brakes would be a good idea.

I voiced my opinion of his driving. He had his window open, so heard me. He stopped and got out of his car. Suggested that because I had used the kind of language that's not suitable for the ears of the poor delicate children, I was the one in the wrong. Offered to knock my teeth out for me. Considerate.

Big chap. I decided cowardice was the better part of valour.

No one was hurt, we went on with our lives.

Cunt.

Yes, because the poor delicate children would be much more traumatised by swearing than they would be by seeing you splattered over the windscreen...  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 12 August, 2014, 12:05:01 am
It's amazing, isn't it. I used a naughty word or two so therefore I must be some kind of Rolf Harris. Never mind that his carelessness could have killed me. He apologised so that makes it OK.

But with hindsight, I'm glad I didn't try to enter into a rational discussion with him. I suspect nothing I could have said would have made him see the light. Nor would it have ended well for me.

I quite like having my own teeth.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 12 August, 2014, 08:00:05 am
First ride back after my first ever proper 'off' last Tuesday. Good to be back in the saddle.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 12 August, 2014, 10:49:41 am
Quote from: citoyen on 11 August, 2014, 11:36:59 pm
Waterloo roundabout.

I hate that thing from the depths of what passes for my soul.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 12 August, 2014, 01:22:32 pm
Wow!
Gently rear ended by a moped rider at Elephant and Castle. It was my fault apparently for not following 'the rules'. This confused me and I sought clarification - I still don't understand how my 'breaking the rules' by not wearing a helmet caused him to run into the back of me as I sat stationary in a queue of traffic.

Got a smile and a thanks from the pedestrian that I rode at as I mounted the pavement on Rosebury Avenue. He wasn't being sarcastic. I'd stopped to let him cross the zebra but then had to take whatever exit route I could find to escape the accelerating van behind.

Waiting for number three.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 12 August, 2014, 11:43:37 pm
'Diverted' slightly on the way home, to hit some portals (some people here will understand). Ended up being a 45mile ride home instead of 25, so 70miles all in for the commute. Time for bed, methinks!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 13 August, 2014, 05:13:29 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 12 August, 2014, 11:43:37 pm
'Diverted' slightly on the way home, to hit some portals (some people here will understand). Ended up being a 45mile ride home instead of 25, so 70miles all in for the commute. Time for bed, methinks!

 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: canny colin on 13 August, 2014, 08:35:15 pm
 i saw a red squirrel on a wall play with his nuts. Its been 3 years since i have seen one around there  . Plenty of his yankee cousins around here. A co-worker  says "reds are getting more squirrel pox resistant" I do hope so.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 13 August, 2014, 09:25:13 pm
Owing to some strange confluence of Canadians and the loveable US Patriot act, I was stuck in a meeting till 1930. Of course, I'd left my lights in the other bag. Hmm, said I, make the Croydon run in 17 parsecs?

I don't normally do fast, but the declining daylight was the monster snarling in my wake. I'll admit to some gentle pleasure steaming past the lycra boys (seriously, they'd go faster if they didn't waste 10 seconds wobbling at every green light trying to clip in) on their expensive bikes. I don't think I've ever won the tour de Waterloo Bridge before.

My legs will file for divorce later.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 14 August, 2014, 09:55:33 am
I am unhappy to say that as I passed the junction of Crofft Y Genau road and the A4119 at Rhydlafar where I was hit by a car two years ago another cyclist has been in a very nasty collision.  When  I passed it did not look good she was sprawled facedown, flat but untidily on the road surrounded by first responder paramedics.  The ambulance was just arriving.  I know nothing more.  I hope she is not too badly hurt and recovers quickly and resumes riding her bike without fear.

Update The road reopened after 4 hours. They do not normally take so much care over the forensics unless serious injury or even death is involved. I hope not.

Update 2: BBC are reporting badly injured female cyclist taken to hospital.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 14 August, 2014, 10:30:14 am
Tough today, just tough.

It's much cooler now in the mornings, amazing how things change in just a couple of weeks.

My desk is so full of paperwork for review, they've taken to putting it in boxes behind my desk. Ah well, they're a good crew and work have been great.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 14 August, 2014, 10:47:39 am
Quote from: Si_Co on 14 August, 2014, 10:30:14 am
Tough today, just tough.

It's much cooler now in the mornings, amazing how things change in just a couple of weeks.

My desk is so full of paperwork for review, they've taken to putting it in boxes behind my desk. Ah well, they're a good crew and work have been great.

Take it easy Si.  Be gentle to yourself.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 14 August, 2014, 06:42:54 pm
Slightly humid conditions in Twickenham. Opted for a different route to the usual riverside path to Richmond tonight...
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k170/smutchin/72A0FE19-8879-43F7-A033-3112C548D3CE_zpsyiiv2rw7.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: woollypigs on 14 August, 2014, 07:48:57 pm
Hmm what's wrong with this route, nice wide car free lanes any cyclist dream ... :-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 15 August, 2014, 10:02:31 am
Tried a different route into the office today - gave the closed Putney Bridge and Kings Road a miss and sailed along CS8 and across Lambeth Bridge.  Much smoother run in and will use that in future.  Managed to catch up and pass the serial red-light jumper who gave me a funny look as if to wonder how a bloke on a steel bike with two large panniers could catch him up.  Blanked him.  Riders like that give this likes of Jeremy Clarkson an excuse.  Otherwise a very fine ride in with everyone behaving themselves.  Richmond Park was curiously empty, is that just August or was it two drops of rain that kept people inside?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonJo on 15 August, 2014, 08:02:08 pm
Nothing out of the ordinary has happened on my commute for ages but today was bookended by two dog attacks.
This morning, a usually placid rotty, that I pass regularly had a dart at me. It's huge & scary but luckily it's owner, on the other end of the lead, is even bigger and scarier and acted as a useful anchor as I swerved away from it's snapping jaws.
On the way home it was an alsation (that I'd never seen before). It almost got away from it's owner who was glaring at me as if it was my fault that the dog was going for me.
That adrenalin buzz is really sweet but I can do without it to be honest.

Anybody know of a legal dog deterrent that's easy to use? No cavalry sword swipes with a pump or anything likely to enrage dog or owner.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 15 August, 2014, 09:23:15 pm
Somewhere near Sunbury, somebody passes me, a bag across there shoulders:  "Orright mate?"
"Yep", putting out a hundred more watts to get on his tail
A bit of through and off later at about R1.5 for my commute back home...

"Is that your club?" seeing the CC Basingstoke club shirt
"Yep"
"What brings you to these parts?"
"I'm going home"
"That's a long way"
"Saves the train fare"
 :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 18 August, 2014, 09:16:31 am
Me!!

Train and bike combination from East Berks to deepest darkest estuary Essex.

Only totals about 7 miles of cycling but still takes 2h:45m.

However the last 5 miles from Stamford-le-(no)Hope to site is mainly down hill, had a tail wind and was done at 18-22mph. I just hope the wind turns round for the slog back later.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 18 August, 2014, 10:55:06 am
Conversely, I had a bastard headwind all the way in this morning and very much hope it does NOT turn round for the return leg later.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 18 August, 2014, 11:13:09 am
Nice spin in this morning to get rid of the stiffness in my legs from the two days of cycling at the weekend. There was little traffic and I rather enjoyed it!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 18 August, 2014, 11:22:16 am
Quote from: citoyen on 18 August, 2014, 10:55:06 am
Conversely, I had a bastard headwind all the way in this morning and very much hope it does NOT turn round for the return leg later.

I am not looking forward to 5 miles of flat / gentle climb across the marshes on an open exposed road into the wind. At least there is a good cyclepath so that I am not having to mix it with the tanker drivers just heading out from the depot.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 18 August, 2014, 11:50:22 am
Cold and dark this morning. What on earth happened to summer?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 18 August, 2014, 04:39:30 pm
Minor diversion this morning.  I've been off work for 2 weeks, so was taking it nice and slow along the main road cycle path on the south of Hyde Park.  Indicated right to go into the right hand turn lane, then realised that the exit gate for cyclists and pedestrians that is directly opposite the Wellington Arch and creates part of the crossing of Hyde Park Corner roundabout - is shut.  With lots of policemen.  One of policemen tells me to hop on the pavement and do a u turn, so I have to carry my bike through the small pedestrian gate with steps.  Then manually get on to the main road there.

Got to work and mentioned it to a colleague who said NewFathersforJustice have been camped out on top of Apsley House/the entrance arch for several days now so that it why it is closed and surrounded by police cars.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimC on 18 August, 2014, 05:49:23 pm
Quote from: Lady Cavendish on 18 August, 2014, 11:50:22 am
Cold and dark this morning. What on earth happened to summer?

Gone on its hols. Git.

ETA: that's Summer that's the git, LC, not you! ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 18 August, 2014, 05:56:44 pm
Nice little pootle home, with only a fucking idiot in a red fuckus honking me because I dared be on the road to spoil it. I made myself feel better by explaining to him what an idiot he was when I pulled up next to him at the lights. Sometimes I do need to control myself.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 18 August, 2014, 06:36:23 pm
I have temporarily given up cyclign to work. Instead I am walking which gives me just sufficient time to mumble to myself along with a 'learn yourself dutch' audio book.

Strange hwo peoel now cross the street to avoid the weirdo mumbling in forrin.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 19 August, 2014, 08:31:42 am
As expected the return journey yesterday was 10kph slower than the way out. The wind had died down but not turned.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris L on 19 August, 2014, 01:17:57 pm
I saw a tandem.  A real one with real people on it.  Just near Lambeth North.  Captain and stoker had Foska pirate shirts - hello if you're on here. That is the first fully populated tandem I've seen in 16 years of London commuting.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 19 August, 2014, 06:57:16 pm
I've been using strava to help me calculate the calories I burn running and cycling so I can stop over eating but one of the handy features is it tells me how fast I've gone and such which is nice till you come to segments.

Seriously 600 metres isn't a climb that you can even call yourself king of the mountains of, it isn't even that steep I don't actually bother getting out of the saddle,  but yep someone's created a segment for it.  And also trying to set the land speed record riding down hill on a 20mph residential street with kids and parked cars and stuff just makes you a douch.

Hrumph.

D.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 19 August, 2014, 07:44:35 pm
Think of Strava segments as being much like the OSM mapping of 10 years ago.  Seems pointless now, but when the graph becomes more complete (as people create increasingly obscure segments to become MOTM of) they'll have a useful dataset of routes and their cycleability.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: lisat on 19 August, 2014, 08:19:47 pm
Cycled home along the beach then promptly fell off my bike at the front door. Not quite sure how I managed it. Put me in a grumpy mood.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 20 August, 2014, 02:14:40 pm
Quote from: davelodwig on 19 August, 2014, 06:57:16 pm
Seriously 600 metres isn't a climb that you can even call yourself king of the mountains of

You didn't win then? ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 20 August, 2014, 04:54:11 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 20 August, 2014, 02:14:40 pm
Quote from: davelodwig on 19 August, 2014, 06:57:16 pm
Seriously 600 metres isn't a climb that you can even call yourself king of the mountains of

You didn't win then? ;)

On a 3 speed brompton... no.

Interestingly the top speed up it was 48kmph which by my reckoning is 30 ish mph I call cheating tbh.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 20 August, 2014, 05:02:21 pm
Probably did it in their car. Other clues are the same ride continuing and hitting 70mph in the flat etc. if so you can flag the ride and they will have to either insist it's genuine or fix it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 20 August, 2014, 05:30:28 pm
Got collared by Sustrans by the Grapes Hill underpass, they wanted a donation or me to join, they got neither but had a nice chat, Norwich has got £5.7m for funding for cycle routes.

The bloke had a Pie chart that showed for every £1k raised Sustrans get £50k in matched/exceeded funding.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 21 August, 2014, 07:03:18 am
First day back today after 2 weeks off the bike. Where did the a) Sun, and b) Summer go? I obviously need something other than mesh running shoes and thick merino socks, all other parts were OK with cycling shorts, mid-weight merino long-sleeved top and thermal More Mile long sleeved top, but only just.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 21 August, 2014, 12:40:11 pm
This morning I had ridden for over 15 miles of my 16 mile commute when I thought.  Rubbish rain its been raining since I left home and will not need to change my socks. (I keep last times wet now dry socks at work).  The rain gods heard my blasphemous thoughts it tipped down heavily. Not enough time left to wet my socks but I was glad to arrive at work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 21 August, 2014, 07:11:20 pm
Thursday was the last commute until next Wednesday.  As usual, nothing to report.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 21 August, 2014, 07:23:48 pm
This morning I stopped for a minute or two to look back at a lovely combination of low mist, sunrise and thinnest of crescent moons.  Didn't stop for long, would have liked to because the scene was v. charming but it was a bit chilly and the toad work was demanding my presence.

I think I saw a patch of frost near in a field near The Red Lion at Poulton.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 22 August, 2014, 08:24:25 am
Got flagged down by a guy on a very blingy soot bike, he wanted a pump. Turns out he'd gone all the way through the canvas and needed a boot as well.

Well he's learnt a new trick anyway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 22 August, 2014, 08:56:11 am
Quote from: Si_Co on 22 August, 2014, 08:24:25 am
Got flagged down by a guy on a very blingy soot bike, he wanted a pump. Turns out he'd gone all the way through the canvas and needed a boot as well.

Well he's learnt a new trick anyway.



Is it the one where you try and find the toffee in your pocket?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 26 August, 2014, 07:56:10 am
This is the day I should have (driven to work / worked from home). Instead I decided to cycle through reasonably bad rain, and pretty bad surface waters. I also decided, in my wisdom, that I should try wearing artificial leather football trainers, so my feet ended up with their own personal swimming pools. Luckily I have a change of socks and top, because even with our office "drying room", I don't think much will be dry by home time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 26 August, 2014, 01:07:50 pm
I hate traffic lights in the rain.  I do not mind riding through rain. I just travel along with slightly useless brakes until I arrive at my destination and I am mysteriously soaked through. However if I stop at traffic lights I notice the rain slowly soaking me.

Never mind a dry ride home is forecast.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 26 August, 2014, 04:26:42 pm
I drove to the station this morning - I had to drop my son off at school on the way as he's off on a trip. I wasn't disappointed to have that excuse.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 27 August, 2014, 09:44:59 pm
Surprisingly cold on this morning's ride in.
Setting off at 6, it was borderline-freezing much of the way.

Check the temperature profile:
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/576064225

I need to dig out my winter kit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 28 August, 2014, 07:11:22 am
I keep on "smashing it", as they say. It seems to be, that in the last few days, cycling has become easier. What I do know is that I have certainly been getting faster. I'm quite new to cycling, so there is natural improvement, though I would expect this to be quite slow as I was already quite fit from running. What seems to be the key is a change of footwear. I was wearing New Balance MT10s, a minimal running shoe which have quite a bit of flex in the sole. My cold weather shoe of choice, a pair of ancient Umbro footy trainers, with much stiffer soles, seem to be helping my cycling a lot. Maybe I will make the jump to "proper" cycling shoes before too long....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 29 August, 2014, 08:18:02 am
Passed a decent sized gridlock around Haymarket station to find a bus and tram had collided. It didnt look very serious but that'll be a nasty snarl up for traffic for ages trying to clear it out. Traffic had been lighter friday traffic until then
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 01 September, 2014, 08:46:23 am
One policewoman each on the pedestrian/cyclist entrance and exit to the old Severn Bridge, backed up by vans etc. It's dead exciting in South Wales at the moment. All them important types are due in any day now, isn't it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 01 September, 2014, 08:47:01 am
To the NATO summit in NEWPORT. Not Cardiff.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 01 September, 2014, 09:10:17 am
Having driven over the new Severn Bridge yesterday evening, there was a police car parked up on every bridge thereafter, all the way until the Bristol turnoff. I wonder how much all this show of 'force' is going to cost Newport citizens.

Oh, and I cycled in to work as usual, to bring the thread back on an even keel.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 01 September, 2014, 10:20:12 am
It's free! Well, nothing's free, but it's being centrally funded so everyone pays.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 01 September, 2014, 07:24:59 pm
For the first time in three weeks. It rained. Both ways.

There was a rash of suicidal Borisbiker. One at the bottom of New Fetter Lane turned her starting wobble into a three lane slalom that simultaneously seemed to put her in front of every vehicle at the junction. Including me. I think she was what Schrodinger had in mind when he postulated his wave equation. She didn't do much better on the straight.

Then coming over Waterloo Bridge, slowing down for the Imax roadabout, another Boriser pants past me and not even pausing for a glance shoots between two fast moving cars on the entry, cuts up two cyclists mid-way and then misses he the front of a third car by centimeters on exit (he just went straight across all the lanes). I'm not sure if was late for his train or early for his funeral.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: lisat on 01 September, 2014, 08:02:22 pm
Hurrah, hurrah, hurrah the beach front is open to cyclists all hours again after the summer ban on bikes between 10am and 6pm. I no longer have to go through town. Although there was quite a lot of dodging the post airshow clear up crew.
Much nicer commute home and quicker too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 01 September, 2014, 08:18:56 pm
Good strong tail wind all the way home tonight, which was:
A.  Unusual
B. Very unusual to be all the way, due to the Ever Decreasing Circles style of my route.
C.  Not spoiled by being overtaken by the bloke who usually overtakes me (He would have been wind assisted too, obv) so the delusion of fitness and speed was not dashed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 02 September, 2014, 05:29:00 am
Had to dodgy several police on the bridge on the way home. Luckily they are much easier to dodge than potholes are.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 02 September, 2014, 08:37:12 am
Quote from: ian on 01 September, 2014, 07:24:59 pm
I'm not sure if was late for his train or early for his funeral.

I think you have to be late for your funeral, don't you?

Saw a nervous city cyclist being subjected to some twattery yesterday. She started signalling right but was still well over to the left. Impatient twat behind came past and cut her up just as she started moving out. It was a sign of her nervousness that she started apologising and a sign of his twattery that he scowled at her as if she had something to apologise for.

Dammit, we're supposed to be encouraging other cyclists, not put them off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 02 September, 2014, 09:14:02 am
Quote from: citoyen on 02 September, 2014, 08:37:12 am
Quote from: ian on 01 September, 2014, 07:24:59 pm
I'm not sure if was late for his train or early for his funeral.

I think you have to be late for your funeral, don't you?

Saw a nervous city cyclist being subjected to some twattery yesterday. She started signalling right but was still well over to the left. Impatient twat behind came past and cut her up just as she started moving out. It was a sign of her nervousness that she started apologising and a sign of his twattery that he scowled at her as if she had something to apologise for.

Dammit, we're supposed to be encouraging other cyclists, not put them off.

He seemed to planning to be early. I did think it was going to end messily. I'm not sure how it didn't. Had it been intentional it would have cool. I did feel a bit sorry for slalom girl who I think had trouble setting off in the wrong gear and something of an unfamiliarity with the concept of being on two wheels. Mind you, I encounter plenty of drivers who struggle with the concept of being on four wheels.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 02 September, 2014, 10:05:57 am
Quote from: Riggers on 01 September, 2014, 09:10:17 am
Having driven over the new Severn Bridge yesterday evening, there was a police car parked up on every bridge thereafter, all the way until the Bristol turnoff. I wonder how much all this show of 'force' is going to cost Newport citizens.

Oh, and I cycled in to work as usual, to bring the thread back on an even keel.
Some of the cops (the ones on foot on the old bridge, at least) are Met - so it might be costing Londoners instead!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 02 September, 2014, 10:08:25 am
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 02 September, 2014, 10:05:57 am
Quote from: Riggers on 01 September, 2014, 09:10:17 am
Having driven over the new Severn Bridge yesterday evening, there was a police car parked up on every bridge thereafter, all the way until the Bristol turnoff. I wonder how much all this show of 'force' is going to cost Newport citizens.

Oh, and I cycled in to work as usual, to bring the thread back on an even keel.
Some of the cops (the ones on foot on the old bridge, at least) are Met - so it might be costing Londoners instead!


Maybe some from Brighton will be drafted in to cover those missing from the Met. In which case …

… we might have French policeman here in Brighton!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 02 September, 2014, 10:15:47 am
Quote from: ian on 02 September, 2014, 09:14:02 am
He seemed to planning to be early.

I meant late as in the late Dentarthurdent. Never mind. It wasn't funny anyway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 02 September, 2014, 10:18:06 am
Quote from: citoyen on 02 September, 2014, 10:15:47 am
Quote from: ian on 02 September, 2014, 09:14:02 am
He seemed to planning to be early.

I meant late as in the late Dentarthurdent. Never mind. It wasn't funny anyway.

I never managed to read that.

I also can't write sentences this morning. Caffeination is currently at 45%. I'm not sure what my excuse is for the afternoon attempts.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 02 September, 2014, 01:56:15 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 02 September, 2014, 10:15:47 am
Quote from: ian on 02 September, 2014, 09:14:02 am
He seemed to planning to be early.

I meant late as in the late Dentarthurdent. Never mind. It wasn't funny anyway.

(drifting off topic)
I once said to the boy"it's a sort of joke, you see". "Yes" he said "you've never been terribly good at them".

I do believe I stopped his pocket money.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wowbagger on 02 September, 2014, 11:46:32 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 02 September, 2014, 01:56:15 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 02 September, 2014, 10:15:47 am
Quote from: ian on 02 September, 2014, 09:14:02 am
He seemed to planning to be early.

I meant late as in the late Dentarthurdent. Never mind. It wasn't funny anyway.

(drifting off topic)
I once said to the boy"it's a sort of joke, you see". "Yes" he said "you've never been terribly good at them".

I do believe I stopped his pocket money.

There has been a type of joke, deprecated my my offspring, yclept a "dad-joke". Curiously, some of the older "dad-jokes" are now well established as part of my children's own store.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 03 September, 2014, 08:12:33 am
Fog!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 03 September, 2014, 08:43:49 am
School run's back.  Thankfully I leave before it kicks in (at 07:00) but signs of shiny new uniforms on the train, and nervy first years with their parents. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 03 September, 2014, 09:03:14 am
Yup, congestion levels almost up to normal this morning.
Mind you, last night was a laugh.  India managed to win the match at Edgbaston a little earlier than was expected and the chaos coincided with peak evening rush hour.  :)
For a while the only things moving anywhere between Harbourne and Moseley were cyclists and pedestrians.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris N on 04 September, 2014, 10:10:04 am
Cycle to Work Day today. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 04 September, 2014, 10:11:42 am
Quote from: chris n on 04 September, 2014, 10:10:04 am
Cycle to Work Day today. :thumbsup:

Yes, the day has a y in it.

Can't say I noticed any more bikes than usual.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris N on 04 September, 2014, 10:19:22 am
Bully for you.

I managed to convince a friend to ride in.  His first commute in 3 years. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 04 September, 2014, 10:21:31 am
 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 04 September, 2014, 10:51:00 am
I was asked by a guy on a bike the best way to edinburgh. He was on the bike for bike-to-work-day, so I said just follow me.
He was fine once he was past the cycle path out on the A8, but followed me right into town to find out the best lanes / positions to be in etc. (at least the ones I take)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 04 September, 2014, 08:58:04 pm
Got it wrong tonight, got sucked in to the cycle lane, should have known better (http://youtu.be/L8PvGWrQwgM)

This road was much better after it was resurfaced and all the road markings were absent
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 05 September, 2014, 08:56:17 am
Quote from: Si_Co on 04 September, 2014, 08:58:04 pm
Got it wrong tonight, got sucked in to the cycle lane

Deliberate ? Or just crap driving in absence of lane markings ?


Longer linlithgow commute for me today, but up round ratho to avoid the crap bit of the pavement / shared use path along a8 past ingliston. Nice day for it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 05 September, 2014, 09:20:03 am
Not deliberate I think, just incompetence on both parts
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Reg.T on 05 September, 2014, 10:08:39 am
Quote from: chris n on 04 September, 2014, 10:10:04 am
Cycle to Work Day today. :thumbsup:
Which explains why the Bath-Bristol Cycle Path was (relatively) mobbed last night. Hadn't noticed any difference on the A4 in the morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 05 September, 2014, 11:15:13 am
Quote from: Reg.T on 05 September, 2014, 10:08:39 am
Quote from: chris n on 04 September, 2014, 10:10:04 am
Cycle to Work Day today. :thumbsup:
Which explains why the Bath-Bristol Cycle Path was (relatively) mobbed last night. Hadn't noticed any difference on the A4 in the morning.

I did 2 commutes yesterday as I did 2 jobs in a row (worked 23 hours  :facepalm: ), and managed to cycle commute the first job only because I wouldn't have been able to physically get to the Bristol job in time. I didn't see any other bikes on my commute though, but then again it is mainly A38 and out in the sticks  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 08 September, 2014, 09:23:30 am
Sat at my desk in lycra. Guess what I forgot this morning?  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 08 September, 2014, 09:36:46 am
First ride in for over a week, due to body fail. I have majik drugs now, so shouldn't fall off and can sleep at night.

So the puncture fairy decides to welcome me back. Some lump of metal on the A64, punctured tyre in multiple places, damaged tyre tread and sidewall. bugger.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Vince on 08 September, 2014, 10:06:01 am
Quote from: Si_Co on 08 September, 2014, 09:23:30 am
Sat at my desk in lycra. Guess what I forgot this morning?  :facepalm:

Be confident, and ask everyone if they have seen the memo on dress code.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 08 September, 2014, 10:48:57 am
I had a bit of a zoom-focus, Carmina Burana moment this morning. All stripped off, power the shower on - nothing. Nooooooooo! Luckily the showers sprang into life 10 minutes later, after I had got dressed, tried the showers on the next floor up with no luck, and returned to the original showers wondering what I was going to do next. Saying "F*** this, I'm off home" was the favourite.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MC Hedgerow on 08 September, 2014, 09:45:23 pm
Am new to this thread but not new to commuting. I have to share a 'first' I had today...

Traffic lights on red. Queue of cars. I arrive as the cars in front are heading off and so don't bother filtering past them. I move off again, at the back of the queue. Hill start and headwind - so I'm moving slowly but, not a problem, no cars behind me and the lights are still on green....

Motorist, coming from the opposite direction, waiting to turn right (which would be across my path) hangs out of his window and uses every available expletive to accuse me of red light jumping.

My only response was just to say 'no I wasn't' and keep on going. On reflection, I later felt I should've said 'what the *#?! do you know? You couldn't see the colour of my traffic light from where you're sitting'. Followed by 'If the lights on your side have changed to red while I've been passing through the junction then that means you're trying to turn right on a red light yourself'.

On reflection again, I then wondered if traffic light systems at some junctions just don't leave sufficient time to get across on a bike?

The only time anything else like this has happened to me was once when I crossed the lovely old bridge at Bangor on Dee which is too narrow to accommodate two lanes and so has a traffic light controlled one way priority thing. The bridge was long enough for the lights to obviously change while I was still on my way over it, which then left me in a head-on situation with an oncoming Sunday driver. He wound his window down, as if to begin his RLJ lecture, but then clearly changed his mind when he read my facials.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 09 September, 2014, 08:48:03 am
Some traffic lights stagger the change, so it's possible that his lights showed red when you were riding across, then his lights turned green.
Or he could have just been a nobber.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 09 September, 2014, 08:49:35 am
Quote from: MC Hedgerow on 08 September, 2014, 09:45:23 pm
The bridge was long enough for the lights to obviously change while I was still on my way over it, which then left me in a head-on situation with an oncoming Sunday driver. He wound his window down, as if to begin his RLJ lecture, but then clearly changed his mind when he read my facials.

In any case, the green light means 'proceed if safe to do so'. Clearly, as there was another vehicle (your bike) coming the other way, it wasn't safe and so he should have waited.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 09 September, 2014, 09:04:23 am
After many many months of incident free cycling I've had three in the space of about 12 hours.

1   Car passes safely and then stops in the middle of the lane ahead of me, alongside the entrance to a petrol station. As I approach I slow and then realise they are looking to turn in but are waiting for me to pass on their inside.

2   Small, daft jeep wannabee Japanese vehicle pulls out of the queue from the right lane of a two lane road into the left, except I'm there. I shout, she acknowledges, indicates left, pulls over and let me past. "I'm a cyclist. I'm a cyclist. I left you enough room." No you didn't. I had to brake hard. Dear god.

3   Kingston to Hampton Court road. There's an entrance to the Palace grounds about half way along. A German registered Audi performs almost the perfect left hook on me. Clear sightlines, broad daylight. What on earth was going through their skull ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 09 September, 2014, 09:41:14 am
Yesterday:
Morning
bike to station, train to waterloo, bike to Fenchurch Street, train to Stamford-le-(no)Hope, bike to site.
Evening
bike to Stamford-le-(no)Hope, train to West Ham, Bike to Stratford to meet friend, later bike to Waterloo and train home.

Not being certain of the route to waterloo from Stratford I followed CS2 down the A11, went over the top of the Bow Flyover, and then followed the sign to london bridge and known roads.

Total for the day 20 miles.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 09 September, 2014, 07:42:31 pm
Rode bike.

That makes zero cheating commutes/school runs so far this term.  We'll see how long we can keep it up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 10 September, 2014, 08:34:14 am
Running late this morning until I encountered a fully laden tipper truck and got a draft all the way from Flixton to Stretford, cruising at 28 mph. When WVM who was behind passed on Edge Lane both him and his mate looked gobsmacked  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 10 September, 2014, 05:40:08 pm
Quote from: MC Hedgerow on 08 September, 2014, 09:45:23 pm
On reflection again, I then wondered if traffic light systems at some junctions just don't leave sufficient time to get across on a bike?

I have 2 sets of lights at junctions I use regularly that barely give me enough time to cross even when you are first across as the lights change. They are both on uphill sections going straight across. At one I never try and cross if the lights are already on green as I approach, but time my arrival so I always come in on red phase and wait. This means I'm first across and have maximum time. It's a very wide 40mph road that you are crossing and drivers coming in the other direction will often try and time their approach so that they can stilol be hitting 30 - 40 mph as they approach (they anticipate that the lights will change by the time they get there as they know that the red light never lasts for more than 10 seconds or so). If you get caught in the middle you can have someone thundering towards you at high speed. On the other I try and ensure that there is a car behind me and position myself wide so that they can't overtake within the junction. That means that it's a car that's left stranded in the middle of the junction if the lights change against me before I've cleared it (length of time given to cross on green at this junction varies dependant on traffic conditions - sometimes you have time, sometimes you don't). As it's a car that's blocking the junction (and not just a cyclist) when the lights change and it's well known that drivers never jump red lights it removes the aggro factor.

Both have been reported to the highway authority. In the first case I got a "we'll look into that", but nothing changed. For the second set of lights the response was "who cycles up there - the road's too steep..."
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 10 September, 2014, 10:14:01 pm
(https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xfp1/v/t1.0-9/10702059_10152622185531839_6441415144631864937_n.jpg?oh=3538fc637258c414ebb3f7bbba1495af&oe=548CA2FE&__gda__=1419694747_c258d907fd98de804fcfa9bc4055748a)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 11 September, 2014, 08:15:04 am
Quote from: MC Hedgerow on 08 September, 2014, 09:45:23 pm

The only time anything else like this has happened to me was once when I crossed the lovely old bridge at Bangor on Dee which is too narrow to accommodate two lanes and so has a traffic light controlled one way priority thing.

Welcome, MC!  I'm being a pedant here (the place is full of them) and possibly wrong, too, but do you mean the bridge in Holt?  I don't think the bridge in Bangor (which is indeed lovely) has lights but the one in Holt is exactly as you describe.

Peter
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 11 September, 2014, 10:10:50 am
Walked the commute yesterday. Reminded me why I normally cycle it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 11 September, 2014, 10:18:25 am
Quote from: Pingu on 11 September, 2014, 10:10:50 am
Walked the commute yesterday. Reminded me why I normally cycle it.

I do that sometimes.  Takes me c1 hr 10 mins.  It's interesting having more time to generally look around at things that are usually missed when paying attention to traffic patterns.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 11 September, 2014, 10:39:22 am
Quote from: Basil on 11 September, 2014, 10:18:25 am
Quote from: Pingu on 11 September, 2014, 10:10:50 am
Walked the commute yesterday. Reminded me why I normally cycle it.

I do that sometimes.  Takes me c1 hr 10 mins.  It's interesting having more time to generally look around at things that are usually missed when paying attention to traffic patterns.

There was a bit of that, however a lot of the route is not pedestrian friendly (narrow or non-existent pavements, pavement parking,  too much traffic, noise, businesses using pavements as forecourts, etc.).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 11 September, 2014, 11:01:15 am
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 10 September, 2014, 10:14:01 pm
(https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xfp1/v/t1.0-9/10702059_10152622185531839_6441415144631864937_n.jpg?oh=3538fc637258c414ebb3f7bbba1495af&oe=548CA2FE&__gda__=1419694747_c258d907fd98de804fcfa9bc4055748a)
:D

I've started riding my commute - 5 out of 5 this week. The commute itself is only .24 of a mile there and about .5 of a mile back (down the hill to go zoom!), but it means I can ride back up from the school run and go on somewhere if I like and do the children's clubs by bike in the afternoons - I'll take a photo of my Helios going to brownies next week :thumbsup: Going to work on the bike means I actually ride much more than the small miles I get from school runs and commuting though - it means I don't have to change bag to go out in the day, so I take the bike where I would otherwise take the pushchair :D

I do have to change bag between the morning solo and the afternoon tandem though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 11 September, 2014, 01:22:06 pm
Last night I turned up the narrow lane and started climbing he short hill with banks on both sides.  A car comes the other way taking up 9/10 of the available width. So I stop and tell her to reverse.  She says Shes more than half way down the hill and I should turn round.  I say that I am not blocking the road she is, her car is too big for country lanes.  She says this is her lane she lives on it.  An arguable point, there are no house in the lane but you get to the lane by a short lane that connect to the lane at one end and a main suburban road the other.  I repeat she is the one blocking the road and must reverse.

She gets out of the car.  The above points are repeated.  The I say I know a way. And lift my bike onto her bonnet and intended to roll it over the roof of the car.  As you all know car drivers get very cross if you touch their car.  She pulls on my cycle shirt and tears it. I turn around the bike swing around and the front wheel hits her on the head. I think the argument has gone too far. She says look there is enough room to wheel your bike past.  I let her wheel my bike occasionally bumping it into the bank but not her car.  I follow her through.  I ride away thinking I have a torn shirt, serves me right for being such an asshole.

I reach the end of the lane turn right into Fordd Las where I assume she claims to live then left on to Bryn Derwen the main road around the north-west of the village.  A car passes me slowly. It pulls in in front of me, I assume someone needs instructions.  A man gets out and asks me had I been in an altercation with a woman in the lane. I say yes. And start to ride away.  He grabs me and pulls me to the floor.  He sits on me and says he arresting me for assaulting his daughter.  I agree that he can call the police but he must let me up I am not going to ride away. I thought I am dealing with a nutter here I better let him have is way.  I phone home (two minutes away) to say I am going to be late.   The police turn up take details and announced they were doing nothing just a case of low level road rage.



 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 11 September, 2014, 01:49:16 pm
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 11 September, 2014, 01:22:06 pm
The I say I know a way. And lift my bike onto her bonnet and intended to roll it over the roof of the car.


...   ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 11 September, 2014, 02:02:06 pm
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 11 September, 2014, 01:22:06 pm
serves me right for being such an asshole.

there we go.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 11 September, 2014, 02:02:17 pm
Quote from: Kim on 11 September, 2014, 01:49:16 pm
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 11 September, 2014, 01:22:06 pm
The I say I know a way. And lift my bike onto her bonnet and intended to roll it over the roof of the car.


...   ???

Agreed with the  ??? as wheeling the bike over the car is always going to increase the anger.

However the drive should read the Highway code rule 155:
Quote from: http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/index/information-and-services/motoring/the-highway-code/89-307-rules-for-drivers-and-motorcyclists/highway-code-rules-103-158/144-158-general-advice.htm
155
Single-track roads
These are only wide enough for one vehicle. They may have special passing places. If you see a vehicle coming towards you, or the driver behind wants to overtake, pull into a passing place on your left, or wait opposite a passing place on your right

Give way to road users coming up hill whenever you can. If necessary reverse until you reach a passing place to let the other road user pass.

Slow down when passing pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders.


my bold.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 11 September, 2014, 02:26:37 pm
I think that, outside of particularly mountainous areas, the convention of giving way to road users coming uphill has mostly evaporated from the public psyche.  Probably because even the most gutless of motor vehicles can get moving on pretty much any hill these days.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 11 September, 2014, 02:32:53 pm
That's as maybe, but there has to be a simply understood rule for one party to give way, otherwise standoffs result. But they do anyway (obv) but at least there is a 'moral' right here (if 'moral' is the right term).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 11 September, 2014, 02:36:31 pm
Quote from: hatler on 11 September, 2014, 02:32:53 pm
That's as maybe, but there has to be a simply understood rule for one party to give way

"Biggest, most expensive, vehicle has priority." isn't it?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 11 September, 2014, 02:44:16 pm
There's a lot of, erm, I'll just say people, shall I? that absolutely refuse to reverse on lanes where we live, saying that they "can't".   That's "can't", as in no good at it.  This does my head in.  Especially when they’ve just driven past a pull-in and not bothered to stop there when they first saw me coming.  God knows what they do when confronted with large agricultural machinery or low loaders with JCBs on the back.  (Something that happens fairly regularly)

ETA.  This refers to when I'm driving.

The locals are pretty reasonable about bikes, although there are some think think the accepted practice is for me to ride staight into the hedge.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 11 September, 2014, 02:45:23 pm
Quote from: Kim on 11 September, 2014, 02:36:31 pm
Quote from: hatler on 11 September, 2014, 02:32:53 pm
That's as maybe, but there has to be a simply understood rule for one party to give way

"Biggest, most expensive, vehicle has priority." isn't it?

"The 4x4 must not leave the road"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moultonaught on 11 September, 2014, 02:54:09 pm
I was walking along Marylebone Road this morning, (as my Brompton's seat tube collar has disintegrated,  so I couldn't ride  :( ).

I witnessed a supper skinny road head down, with a nice smooth cadence, blasting down the road making very good progress.

I was most amused to see a pinstripe suited, brogue wearing brompton rider sitting *right* on said roadie's back wheel getting a tow, in a very regal manner!  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rafletcher on 11 September, 2014, 03:20:14 pm
Quote from: Basil on 11 September, 2014, 02:44:16 pm
There's a lot of, erm, I'll just say people, shall I? that absolutely refuse to reverse on lanes where we live, saying that they "can't".   That's "can't", as in no good at it. 

Our neighbour always comes up our lane and turns left into her drive. Their drive is wide enough for three cars, and one day I was parked across about half of it, washing mine. (The lane is just wide enough fro two cars, and our cottage fronts directly onto it, our parking being on a filled in ditch opposite which gets v muddy if wet, hence my using the road. And her husband has no problem with me occasionally parking across it, or even using it to change wheels.). She stops alongside my car so the lane is completely blocked, and looks at me and spreads her hands. This is to indicate that it's now too difficult for her to turn into her parking place on her accustomed line, and of course completely impossible to go past, do a three point turn, and come at the space from the other direction, or indeed go past and reverse in.  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 11 September, 2014, 03:55:25 pm
Quote from: Basil on 11 September, 2014, 02:44:16 pm
There's a lot of, erm, I'll just say people, shall I? that absolutely refuse to reverse on lanes where we live, saying that they "can't".   That's "can't", as in no good at it.  This does my head in.  Especially when they’ve just driven past a pull-in and not bothered to stop there when they first saw me coming.  God knows what they do when confronted with large agricultural machinery or low loaders with JCBs on the back.  (Something that happens fairly regularly)

ETA.  This refers to when I'm driving.

The locals are pretty reasonable about bikes, although there are some think think the accepted practice is for me to ride staight into the hedge.

This reminds me of a trip to Wales, before the rules with towing and minibuses got terribly terribly complicated and even then they were a bit of a mess.  the scene is set with a 22 year old me driving a minibus towing a twin axle trailer (yes I know, MAM weights, towing rules, etc but the guidance I had at the time was it was ok). I am climbing a slight incline and on a single track road towards a campsite. Approaching and passing a passing place was another minibus.

There we both stopped, I waited for him to reverse the 50m to the passing place, instead he laid on his horn like you wouldn't believe. I got out to see what the problem was, apparently I was to reverse, I pointed out the massive trailer, again I was to reverse, I indicated that it wasn't going to happen, and his bus would actually fit in the passing space.

 Turns out he couldn't reverse the bus and for practical reasons had to do it for him, seriously if you can't drive the thing don't take it out. Before I could use any of the minibuses I borrowed I had to do half a day reversing round corners and manoeuvring to make sure I could handle the thing.

D.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 11 September, 2014, 04:10:03 pm
I have a large twin axle motorhome which I can reverse, a consequence of learning to drive on a farm with 40ft trailers, but I'm awkward.

These sorts of impasses usually resolve themselves when you get out to switch on the gas and put the kettle on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 12 September, 2014, 08:28:45 am
Me!!

Am cat sitting again, it doubles as a trial for the new commute once the house purchase goes through.

10.5km, 7 sets of lights (5 ped crossings, 1 junction, 1LC) and either flowing traffic on wide roads or little traffic on narrow roads. All good.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 12 September, 2014, 08:45:58 am
Is it national close pass a cyclist day?  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 12 September, 2014, 10:04:42 am
Obviously only in the north, I had no problems in the home counties today.  :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 12 September, 2014, 10:58:31 am
Quote from: Si_Co on 11 September, 2014, 04:10:03 pm
I have a large twin axle motorhome which I can reverse, a consequence of learning to drive on a farm with 40ft trailers, but I'm awkward.

These sorts of impasses usually resolve themselves when you get out to switch on the gas and put the kettle on.

I have probably told this before, but...

My Very Big Mate and another mate are out in the Official Landy complete with two-axle trailer carrying the RHIB (boat) going along a passing-place lane when they come head-on against a Jag which has just driven past a passing place. Jag driver sticks head out of window after obligatory horn fanfare.

"Back up, sonny!"

So MVBM gets out of Landy and commences standing up. As he reaches full extension, and walks over to explain how much easier it would be for the Jag to back up a few yards, the driver locks his door and avoids all eye contact. It was my other mate who told me the punchline.

MVBM says "About lunch time, innit?"

And so they eat their lunch, drinking from their thermos of tea, for about twenty minutes sat on the bonnet of the County, secure in the virtue of actually being paid to be there. The Jag driver eventually backed up when they got out the pack of cards and began to shuffle...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 12 September, 2014, 11:04:31 am
Very good.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Diver300 on 12 September, 2014, 06:51:04 pm
Today seemed to be the day to overtake cyclists and then stop.

Three notable instances of twattery.

1) Almost a left hook by a 38 tonne lorry. 30 limit, slight downhill, I'm doing 20 mph, lorry overtakes, only gets 5 m clear of me and slows right down to turn left.

2) PK60EPL, white van, obv, overtakes on the right of a keep left sign. I catch up 10 seconds later at the lights.

3) 20 mph limit outside a school, woman driving, child in school uniform overtakes me with a big speed margin when I am doing 19 mph.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 12 September, 2014, 10:55:34 pm
Quote from: davelodwig on 11 September, 2014, 03:55:25 pm
snip....Turns out he couldn't reverse the bus and for practical reasons had to do it for him, seriously if you can't drive the thing don't take it out.
D.

Previous professional experience indicates plenty of folk who shouldn't be allowed a walking licence let alone a driving licence frequent our highways.....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 12 September, 2014, 11:28:30 pm
(https://scontent-a-lhr.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xap1/v/t1.0-9/10665114_10152625461826839_909180122874119730_n.jpg?oh=9c919bec5d1dae9543404f76d532b6e3&oe=54CD0F10)

Another full house...

Being passed (and pushed into the pothole-and-gravel-fest on that side of the B1228) at speed by HGVs on the stokerless tandem wasn't much fun.  Got there, got back, and it wasn't as horrifically slow as I'd feared.  That'll do.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 13 September, 2014, 12:04:54 am
I reckon you need a foldaway skellington stoker.  Bound to get you loads of room on the road, and just the thing for Whitby.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 15 September, 2014, 12:17:53 pm
CTF, I have to say that if someone did that with my daughter I'd probably go all DadRage as well.

I used to live on a single-lane road. Person closest to passing place reverse, locals who are used to the road don't slow down much and drive half into the ditch. They put up with the scratches to their cars, part of the consequence of living in a rural location.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 16 September, 2014, 03:33:57 pm
Still dry and mild.  Must be a good 2 weeks solid of good weather. Cant think of a longer period all year so far.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 16 September, 2014, 03:58:32 pm
Yes, very nice! I need a thin base layer for the Severn crossing, and I forget that the footpath tends to get wet when all around is dry, but apart from that it was a lovely ride in. I'm starting to get cars keeping their main beams on when driving past me though, which is a bit off-putting but at least I see the ones on my side getting closer.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 17 September, 2014, 08:38:38 am
Yesterday evening I could have done with taking my jacket off, but yesterday morning in the fog it was definitely required.

This morning something had fouled up either the Showcase roundabout or the Robinhood Lane lights in Winnersh as the queue was back to the Wosehill roundabout. As there is a cycle lane on that stretch passing traffic was an easy pleasure.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CJBrewer on 17 September, 2014, 10:41:30 am
Quote from: matthew on 11 September, 2014, 02:02:17 pm
Quote from: Kim on 11 September, 2014, 01:49:16 pm
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 11 September, 2014, 01:22:06 pm
The I say I know a way. And lift my bike onto her bonnet and intended to roll it over the roof of the car.


...   ???

Agreed with the  ??? as wheeling the bike over the car is always going to increase the anger.

Give way to road users coming up hill whenever you can. If necessary reverse until you reach a passing place to let the other road user pass.

Slow down when passing pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders.


Obviously, the answer is for the cyclist to reverse back down the hill. Carefully. Slowly. I would have done that rather than try to ride over the car.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 18 September, 2014, 12:04:43 am
A lad on a clown bike overtook me when I was riding home the long way.

Well, not exactly a clown bike - something like a classic Moulton, small wheels and deep blue. He was doing more traffic jamming than I could be faffed with, so I didn't bother catching him up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 18 September, 2014, 08:21:27 am
I knew I would get quicker once I started comuting regularly again but a 10% gain in a week was unexpected.  :thumbsup:

Otherwise entirely incident free, with the exception of informing a guy in a focus that both his left and right brake lights were out.  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 18 September, 2014, 10:27:54 am
I can't get over how mild it's been these last few days. I'm still in shorts and short sleeves and have to take off the base layer for the ride home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 18 September, 2014, 12:06:33 pm
Quote from: alexb on 18 September, 2014, 10:27:54 am
I can't get over how mild it's been these last few days. I'm still in shorts and short sleeves and have to take off the base layer for the ride home.

It's still stupidly mild, I was sweating buckets when I got to work, and haven't worn more than one layer since the spring.


A few interesting things on the commute today.  A chap on an old traditional trike, I'm guessing it was single speed, since fixed on a trike sounds like it could be iffy (between Thorton Heath and Streatham on the A23).

(http://jakal.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/xanthus/GeneralBike/TraditionalTrike20140918.jpg)

Anyone know him?

On Cavendish Road, I passed a Google Streeview car going in the opposite direction.  They're rather more heavily into their marketing now, the cars used to be quite plain and relatively inconspicuous, aside from the damned great big camera and LIDAR array on the roof, but this one was somewhat less subtle!

(http://jakal.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/xanthus/GeneralBike/GoogleCarCavRoad20140918.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 18 September, 2014, 12:27:58 pm
Upright fixed trikes weren't unknown (never common), though that combination sounds like a nightmare to ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 18 September, 2014, 01:45:10 pm
Any idea what the bosses on the trike's forks are for? They look too low to have ever been cantilever mounts. Could be for a lamp but it would seem odd to have one each side (and there is a lamp bracket at the bottom of the stem). Also, the paint looks a bit different around them, suggesting they might be relatively new, though they're unused now.  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Reg.T on 18 September, 2014, 01:53:54 pm
Bosses stick out rather than forward, so presumably not brake-related. Which also raises the question of what braking it does have - looks like one (rod-type?) lever only, but can't see how/what it actuates. So may be fixed gear too?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 18 September, 2014, 02:01:35 pm
Quote from: Reg.T on 18 September, 2014, 01:53:54 pm
Bosses stick out rather than forward, so presumably not brake-related. Which also raises the question of what braking it does have - looks like one (rod-type?) lever only, but can't see how/what it actuates. So may be fixed gear too?

If it's old enough for rod brakes, is it old enough to pre-date the need for two independent braking systems?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 18 September, 2014, 02:14:22 pm
It was common for early fixed safety bicycles and tricycles to have footrests on the forks, to enable faster descents.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 September, 2014, 02:28:33 pm
Yeah, I thought coasting pegs mounts.  Which might indicate it has been fixed at some point.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 18 September, 2014, 02:31:32 pm
Does it have any brakes at all? Or is there some sort of inboard drum at the back?

He's brave - that doesn't look like a fun way to get to work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 18 September, 2014, 02:40:49 pm
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 18 September, 2014, 02:31:32 pm
He's brave - that doesn't look like a fun way to get to work.

News just in: Not everyone riding a bike in a city is commuting (dear cycle campaigners: please realise that).  He's probably on some sort of vintage tricycle mission.  I hope.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 18 September, 2014, 02:41:32 pm
I've been commuting by bike this week for the first time in many moons (Richmond-ish > Chelsea).

I was thinking on the way in about things that have put me off commuting at times over the last 18 months or so. Strong contenders are:

- living in a location that means all your rides start / end on a busy road where you have to be up to speed right from the start, at commute-o'clock.
- living in a location too close to work to make it worth bothering with the bike clothing, light charging, locks and other commute faff. Has to be at least 6 miles I think. I suppose one approach might be to ride in civvies but there is a threshold for that too - needs to be under about 3 miles I think.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 18 September, 2014, 02:45:10 pm
Quote from: Kim on 18 September, 2014, 02:40:49 pm
He's probably on some sort of vintage tricycle mission.

That possibility did occur to me, especially when I remembered that TimO does not commute at the usual rush hour times.

I still think he's brave though. Streatham's hard core.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 18 September, 2014, 02:48:28 pm
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 18 September, 2014, 02:41:32 pm
- living in a location too close to work to make it worth bothering with the bike clothing, light charging, locks and other commute faff. Has to be at least 6 miles I think. I suppose one approach might be to ride in civvies but there is a threshold for that too - needs to be under about 3 miles I think.

Something I've given (mostly academic - I don't have a commute) consideration to for some time.  I think it comes down to effort * duration, with a hefty individual fudge-factor for how quickly it takes you to get hot and sweaty, and how much of a big deal Weather is (hair etc. will vary).  Actual distance is less important, except in that how it affects those.  Hills are a bigger deal.

Being of the sweaty persuasion, CLWB 'bent with an electric assist is the hammer I'd choose to crack that particular nut.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 18 September, 2014, 04:26:00 pm
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 18 September, 2014, 02:41:32 pm
I've been commuting by bike this week for the first time in many moons (Richmond-ish > Chelsea).

I was thinking on the way in about things that have put me off commuting at times over the last 18 months or so. Strong contenders are:

- living in a location that means all your rides start / end on a busy road where you have to be up to speed right from the start, at commute-o'clock.
- living in a location too close to work to make it worth bothering with the bike clothing, light charging, locks and other commute faff. Has to be at least 6 miles I think. I suppose one approach might be to ride in civvies but there is a threshold for that too - needs to be under about 3 miles I think.
my bold. Tis easily fixed though, I've extended such commutes before, in fact its nice to have the option
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 18 September, 2014, 04:36:08 pm
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 18 September, 2014, 02:45:10 pm
That possibility did occur to me, especially when I remembered that TimO does not commute at the usual rush hour times.

It was at around 10-30 - 10-40, so not a typical commuting time.  I watched the video again, and nothing looks much clearer.  There are clearly no hub brakes involved.  It could be a spoon brake, but I think that would be more obvious, and the presence of a front mudguard tends to suggest not.  Looking carefully at the video, there is the possibility of a small drum brake on the rear axle, although I'm not sure if that mechanism is common on trikes, and if that's operated by a rod, it's not clearly visible.

I never saw him stop pedalling, although it was mostly uphill, so that may prove nothing.  He turned off down Kempshott Road, which is suggestive of him just doing a loop around the roads, since otherwise you'd tend to use somewhere like Ellison Road, which is quieter.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 18 September, 2014, 04:41:48 pm
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 18 September, 2014, 02:41:32 pm
- living in a location too close to work to make it worth bothering with the bike clothing, light charging, locks and other commute faff. Has to be at least 6 miles I think. I suppose one approach might be to ride in civvies but there is a threshold for that too - needs to be under about 3 miles I think.

If your commute is too short - you can always ride the long way in  ;D

Personally, I think your 3 mile limit is a little short for civvies. Just take it easy - stay out of the big chain ring and don't rise to the challenge of a commuter race. There's no need to work up a sweat. Riding sedately versus flat out is similar to walking versus running. You can take a little longer but don't need to put on special gear and take a shower after. For my civvy commute (when I've not got the folder) I have a fabric carrier bag which has my lunch box, lock, lights and trouser clip / slap on thingy in it. I just drop this in an old pannier which remains on the bike permanently. When I get to work I just remove the bag. This way I don't forget anything (in theory). I have rechargable AA cells in my commute lights and keep a spare set at work for when they go flat on the ride in. You just need the discipline to throw the flat batteries in the bag if you use the work ones and recharge them THAT NIGHT.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 18 September, 2014, 04:48:25 pm
These are the best shots I can see of the tricycle's rear axle.  Does this look like it could be some sort of rear axle drum brake?

(http://jakal.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/xanthus/GeneralBike/TrikeDetails2_20130918_400pxScaled.jpg)

(http://jakal.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/xanthus/GeneralBike/TrikeDetails1_20130918.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 18 September, 2014, 04:52:41 pm
Could be a diff or a drum brake. My Ken Rogers has a front cantilever and a rear drum.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 18 September, 2014, 07:34:36 pm
Coasting pegs does seem the most likely. As for braking, aren't the rules different for trikes - they're allowed to have both brakes on the back? There does seem to be at least one brake lever - can't see if it's actually connected to anything though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 18 September, 2014, 07:39:16 pm
Commuting in civvies - that's the way I've done it whenever I've had a commute. Not that they've ever been more than about five miles. Ironically - or probably not - the commute on which I got least sweaty was technically in the tropics (as in 12 degrees North - but not a typical tropical climate due to the 1000m altitude).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tatanab on 18 September, 2014, 07:40:53 pm
Looks like a drum brake on a diff to me.  I think you can see the smaller diameter diff and the larger brake.  It will also be on fixed, and there's nothing iffy about fixed on  trike, it's just a different skill.  I learned on fixed.
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 18 September, 2014, 07:34:36 pm
As for braking, aren't the rules different for trikes - they're allowed to have both brakes on the back?
Trikes with 2 rear wheels are permitted to have 2 independent front brakes, and trikes with 2 front wheels are permitted to have 2 rear brakes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 18 September, 2014, 07:47:46 pm
Quote from: tatanab on 18 September, 2014, 07:40:53 pm
trikes with 2 front wheels are permitted to have 2 rear brakes.

I bet that's a bit interesting...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 18 September, 2014, 08:07:34 pm
Well that one has two rear wheels and two rear brakes (counting the fixed wheel)! Not that that means it's necessarily illegal, as the rules have doubtless changed over time and they do sound a bit odd anyway!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonJo on 18 September, 2014, 08:29:51 pm
I ruined another Schwalbe M+, the second this year and only done around 300 miles on it. Both were on the back wheel, both inflated to 110psi.  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 18 September, 2014, 09:05:47 pm
For the second time this week I have had to catch the train to make up time after working late. Only half an hour late but the train gets me to Pontyclun a little after I pass that point when I leave work on time. So I have paid a total of  £3.40 to be ten minutes late home each day.  If I took the train all the way I would pay a total of £11 to be twenty minutes late each day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 18 September, 2014, 09:15:41 pm
I was also pondering the commuting in civvies thing. I had training today a mere 3 miles away, so I pootled very slowly in my civvies, and STILL started sweating slightly when I got there, curses.

No way I could do current 8 mile commute in civvies. I have to change and shower which I find a terrible faff, and the shower rooms are more like paddling pools due to bad design, and they smell of everyone's sweaty clothes that hang in there.

My new commute, if we ever manage to actually move, will be 12/13 miles, so that will be another change/shower job. Am considering an overground/Brompton combo to see if I could get away with civvies on dry days at least, because I can see myself wimping out of a commute that length a lot, especially with the medication I'm on making me a mess in the mornings.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tatanab on 18 September, 2014, 09:16:31 pm
Quote from: TimO on 18 September, 2014, 04:48:25 pm
These are the best shots I can see of the tricycle's rear axle.  Does this look like it could be some sort of rear axle drum brake?

(http://jakal.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/xanthus/GeneralBike/TrikeDetails2_20130918_400pxScaled.jpg)

(http://jakal.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/xanthus/GeneralBike/TrikeDetails1_20130918.jpg)
I think I've found it.  it is a Sparkbrook which has a band brake and a "double driving balance gear".http://veterancycleclublibrary.org.uk/ncl/pics/Sparkbrook%20tricycle%20advertisement%201898%20(V-CC%20Library).pdf  The advert shows the chainset being on the left, the photo shows it on the right.  Could be just different years in development, but the axle is clearly the same.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 18 September, 2014, 10:39:50 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 18 September, 2014, 09:15:41 pm
I was also pondering the commuting in civvies thing. I had training today a mere 3 miles away, so I pootled very slowly in my civvies, and STILL started sweating slightly when I got there, curses.

No way I could do current 8 mile commute in civvies. I have to change and shower which I find a terrible faff, and the shower rooms are more like paddling pools due to bad design, and they smell of everyone's sweaty clothes that hang in there.

My new commute, if we ever manage to actually move, will be 12/13 miles, so that will be another change/shower job. Am considering an overground/Brompton combo to see if I could get away with civvies on dry days at least, because I can see myself wimping out of a commute that length a lot, especially with the medication I'm on making me a mess in the mornings.

Its very warm and humid at the moment.  I finished my commute at 8:50pm and was still warm in shorts and a short sleeved top.  You'd get quite hot in civvies walking to the bus stop let alone cycling.  Wait a month.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 18 September, 2014, 10:44:52 pm
London commute from Basingstoke today.  Peaceful run in, especially given the amount of resurfacing they've done in Chertsey and Shepperton, leaving nice smooth tarmac everywhere.  Let Mrs CET know my ETA was 20:50 but then got caught up in a couple of conversations and so started my way back late.  Ventured down the A3036 to Clapham and Wandsworth instead of CS8 and seemed to be alright (will probably be choked next time I tried it), but the Wandsworth Gyratory was log-jammed.  Began to worry about rash promises so TT'ed it back from Kingston at 30kph, legs just about to expire on the last little rise on Newnham Lane.  Got in and looked at the clock.  20:50.  Well chuffed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 19 September, 2014, 08:42:18 am
I left early yesterday afternoon and saw no end of low grade motorised twattery. It's amazing how much difference 10 minutes makes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 19 September, 2014, 08:43:08 am
Over heating last night in light weight longs and a long sleeve top despite leaving my jacket off.

This morning included getting shouted at. I stop for my paper on route through wokingham, this means up drop over onto pavement, 10m to the newsagent, get paper, 5m to the ped lights and down the drop over back onto the road. During the 10m to the newsagent hes standing in front of me waving his arms arround shouting "off! f***ing get off". Wasn't worth arguing and he had caused me to stop already so I got off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 19 September, 2014, 10:44:18 am
Thought it would be really busy going past Ingliston as thats where the referendum result was being announced, so went up round Ratho again to avoid it.
Traffic after that was pretty busy all the way in though. Quite wet with mist in the east this morning, (not rain it was still dry and mild in the west) and slippy roads. Was glad I had nobody behind me crossing the tram lines.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hulver on 19 September, 2014, 12:52:11 pm
The heavens opened while I was half way home at lunch time, and in the 5 minutes it took me to get back, I got drenched. It was so wet even the dog complained about having to go out.

It was still raining on the ride back. I'm glad I had a change of clothes at work, but I bet my stuff won't be dry for the journey home.

Currently having a lunch of nuts (Brazil nuts and Pecans are pretty low carb) as I didn't fancy going to the shop in the rain.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 19 September, 2014, 01:21:40 pm
Quote from: tatanab on 18 September, 2014, 09:16:31 pm
I think I've found it.  it is a Sparkbrook which has a band brake and a "double driving balance gear".http://veterancycleclublibrary.org.uk/ncl/pics/Sparkbrook%20tricycle%20advertisement%201898%20(V-CC%20Library).pdf  The advert shows the chainset being on the left, the photo shows it on the right.  Could be just different years in development, but the axle is clearly the same.

Ah, that does look remarkably similar, although there definitely wasn't a brake rod positioned on the downtube as overtly as that.  Since there appear to be many other trike designs out there, also under the Sparkbrook name, I suspect that things changed a lot over the years, so a minor movement of that rod is entirely plausible.

A fixed wheel with a diff sounds more plausible, since skidding around a corner whilst still pedalling, or trying to compensate for the turn, would have added in an additional layer of complexity that the diff would ameliorate to a degree.

As regards the chain and chainwheel being on the left, that may just be artistic license.  Since the chainwheel is almost exclusively on the right these days, and may well have been even then, you would expect that they would have used that design to at least minimise the unique components that they would have had to manufacture.  Swapping images left to right happens frequently in magazines and newspapers, it's not uncommon to see the chainwheel on the wrong side of a bike, especially in non-bicycle publications.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Vince on 19 September, 2014, 01:26:31 pm
Quote from: TimO on 19 September, 2014, 01:21:40 pm
As regards the chain and chainwheel being on the left, that may just be artistic license.  Since the chainwheel is almost exclusively on the right these days, and may well have been even then, you would expect that they would have used that design to at least minimise the unique components that they would have had to manufacture.  Swapping images left to right happens frequently in magazines and newspapers, it's not uncommon to see the chainwheel on the wrong side of a bike, especially in non-bicycle publications.

Could have been an early 20th century 'Oh bugger' moment by the engraver, who slavishly copied the design on to the plate, forgetting to reverse left to right.

Could the fork bosses be the attachments that prevent roll lever brakes being pushed forward, being twisted from their normal forward facing position?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 19 September, 2014, 02:14:34 pm
Quote from: Guy on 19 September, 2014, 08:42:18 am
I left early yesterday afternoon and saw no end of low grade motorised twattery. It's amazing how much difference 10 minutes makes.

I notice this, someone once said to me its because your regulars get used to where you are and how you are going to behave
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 19 September, 2014, 08:45:27 pm
First commute of this term when I haven't taken the tandem :-(

Cos the Cubs were away last night so I took V instead  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonJo on 22 September, 2014, 08:04:04 pm
The traffic lights were on for the first time at the new junction at the top of Blind Lane in Chester le Street. This junction is now much less hairy to navigate  :thumbsup:

Some berk stepped out in front of me causing me to swerve into the undergrowth.  :facepalm: He did apologise though.

The weather was so nice that I pushed the return leg out to 23 miles  :thumbsup:

I had an unavoidable collision with a blackbird  :sick:

When I got home the lad had a warm pork pie and a bottle of beer waiting for me  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 23 September, 2014, 08:29:37 am
A gentle reminder this morning of just how far through the year we are, soon be time for merino. Do like cycling at this time of year though.

Edit for spelling
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 23 September, 2014, 08:33:13 am
Still shorts & sandals here. 12 degrees this morn, and I prefer to be colder at first to be fine once I get going.
Checked back on my notes from last year, we'd had a number of crap and wet days in Sept.
Yes, love riding with the autumn coolness in the air at any time of day, but mornings seem especially nice
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 23 September, 2014, 08:40:10 am
who turned the heating off  :o

Riding past the misty fields was dam cold, further as I am at my sisters I only have the light weight longs and half finger mitts.

Then the office hot water wasn't working properly so the showers were cold.  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 23 September, 2014, 08:42:30 am
Quote from: sg37409 on 23 September, 2014, 08:33:13 am
Still shorts & sandals here. 12 degrees this morn, and I prefer to be colder at first to be fine once I get going.
Checked back on my notes from last year, we'd had a number of crap and wet days in Sept.
Yes, love riding with the autumn coolness in the air at any time of day, but mornings seem especially nice

Yes it something about the crisp air, the mist and the light
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 23 September, 2014, 08:49:31 am
A bit nippy today! Also I'm not sure my 300 lumen light was much good in the fog approaching Olveston at 6am, maybe I should give the Chinese 1,000,000 lumen light a go soon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wascally Weasel on 23 September, 2014, 10:23:36 am
I was heading east on the A213 just north of Croydon this morning when I (partially) witnessed a bike crash on the other side of the road – I say partially because I can’t be 100% sure of the facts because I tend to focus on my direction of travel.

What appeared to happen was a car turned left off the road with little warning that I observed, and what appeared to be fairly hard braking - I can’t say whether or not the driver indicated  (it wasn’t a left turn into a side street either, it was a cross pavement dropped kerb into car parking behind houses/businesses.  Just had a quick look on street view and it’s really not an obvious turn at all).  The cyclist hit the rear left side of the car, smashing the rear light panel and cutting her hand quite nastily in the process.

I stopped to take down details for the cyclist and then nipped to the nearest shop to buy plasters, wipes tissues and a sugary drink for her as she seemed a bit shaken, as any of us would be.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 23 September, 2014, 12:25:45 pm
Well done that weasel  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Diver300 on 23 September, 2014, 07:52:25 pm
Light blue Jaguar B9CHV overtook here (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@52.4128442,-1.4439537,3a,75y,353.43h,89.61t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1s811N6ZijC0xejVrwqCV_2A!2e0) and didn't get all the way past me before the roundabout exit. I fended off with the flat of may hand and he hit my front wheel with his left rear wing/wheel. I didn't come off. He didn't stop.

Later I passed on the left when he was queuing to turn right. I then saw that the driver was 70 - 80 years old, with ?wife in front seat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 23 September, 2014, 08:00:57 pm
Just posted on this elsewhere.  Can't be arsed to re do it, so here's a copy and paste.
On my regular evening commute I turn right (south) onto the Bristol Road after descending Priory Rd.  If I'm early, pre 5:30, there are cars parked up on the dual carriageway about 300 metres down.
I treat them as a car would, moving out from some way back.  I don't need to move into the outside lane, there's loads of room to pass safely.
Tonight as I approached, I was only about 50 metres from them, well into primary when a 4x4 (Landrover?) Skimmed me and then cut back in at speed.
Oh dear, suddenly confronted with a parked car just metres from his bonnet and unable to pull out due to traffic, he had to perform an emergency stop which involved a lot of ending up sideways.
My, I enjoyed that.  Fair made oi larff.  It was only at home later, and thinking about it, did I realise that the poor idiot had been trying to perform a punishment pass.  Cyclist taking too much room, I'll show him.  He's lucky he didn't die.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 23 September, 2014, 08:20:20 pm
Karma eh?  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 24 September, 2014, 09:14:28 am
Gosh! it rained on this mornings commute.  Unusual for this September in South Wales.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 24 September, 2014, 09:27:22 am
An interesting chat (http://youtu.be/EIBl10rLoSw) last night.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 24 September, 2014, 11:49:22 am
Putney Bridge to reopen on Friday morning, I see. So far it doesn't look as if there are any changes in terms of cycle lane markings or lanes, but they haven't finished it yet. Lovely surface!

That will bring to an end the frustrations of walking across while being held up by unfeasibly lardy schoolchildren.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 24 September, 2014, 12:02:26 pm
Biggest thing for me today was  that I was actually riding it :D

Only a couple miles down from the off-site car park to ease back in today, but it's nice to be back :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 24 September, 2014, 12:04:07 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 24 September, 2014, 12:02:26 pm
Biggest thing for me today was  that I was actually riding it :D

Only a couple miles down from the off-site car park to ease back in today, but it's nice to be back :thumbsup:

Good stuff mcshroom, makes a big difference to the day eh?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 24 September, 2014, 01:53:44 pm
For today (and the last two days) I've had the pleasure of accompanying Little Miss hatler on her cycle to school. It's taken a while to arrange for this to happen but the misery of waiting for a bus that might or might not appear, and which might or might not be full, has proved all too much, so bikes win the day. Yay !!

Not sure if this arrangement will survive through the Winter or not, or even my absence. But I'm revelling in it while I can (as is LMH).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimC on 24 September, 2014, 03:02:26 pm
Well done Miss H!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 24 September, 2014, 05:18:16 pm
Quote from: TimC on 24 September, 2014, 03:02:26 pm
Well done Miss H!
Indeed. And I just realised something. As a result of not tearing myself away from my desk on time I had to blat as fast as I could through the streets of Sunbury and Kingston to make the appointed time, and at exactly the same time somewhere in Spain a bunch of people who are paid significantly more than I am, wearing ridiculous lycra suits and helmets, were doing something broadly similar. Except that at the end of their exertions one of them got a rainbow jersey. All I got was a "Where have you been Dad ?"

:-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimC on 24 September, 2014, 08:56:12 pm
I suspect Bradley went a smidge faster!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 25 September, 2014, 10:10:13 pm
This morning I heeded the weather forecast and thought Green bike today. Wet is not good for red bike, I might get a puncture.  I was about to set off when I remembered that I was carrying spare tubes for red bike.  So I quickly popped back in the house and swapped to larger tubes, Not that I expected to use them. Continental Contact are suitably durable.  At the bottom of the golf course lane I think very poor brakes they hardly stopped me.  I better adjust them when I get home.  I continue carefully so I would not need urgent braking.  As I am riding up the false flat from Llanharan I get the impression that the bike is not running as smoothly as it should.  At Valley Wood, the film studio that has only ever been used once, I stop and squeeze my front tyre and think slow puncture.  I add air it appears firm. I get past the next roundabout then at the Pencoid roundabout I think oh dear its flat again.  So I stop, find a thorn in the tyre remove it swap the tube and continue to work.

On the way home I decide it would be better to use the train all the way home. If I needed to use those brakes in the wet I would be in trouble. I gave up the first tail wind I would have had for ages and rode to Bridgend station.
   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 26 September, 2014, 08:23:00 am
My 400th commute to my current job.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 26 September, 2014, 11:48:50 pm
With the bike in the corner shop getting her dying hamster squeals addressed, and the migraine hangover from yesterday still loitering, I chickened out of the 15 mile round trip on a stokerless tandem and blagged a lift.

First non-cycling commute/school run of the term.  But it's not the end of the world. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 30 September, 2014, 08:13:57 am
There's a very thin layer of mist on the fields. When the sun peeped over the horizon the mist turned opaque and the sheep on the glebe looked like little woolly balloons floating on a milky sea :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: niggle on 30 September, 2014, 12:49:45 pm
Decided to use a (flashing) front light this morning for the first time since the spring, due to the thick morning mist. No mystic sheep round here though- probably scared off by the noise of all the scooter mopeds with 'sports' exhausts being ridden to college past the twin track vehicle queues.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 30 September, 2014, 01:06:54 pm
A beautiful morning at just the right temperature, and wall to wall traffic jams on each of the junctions on the commute. It's rare that all the junctions have a sizeable tailback, but today they did. I reckon it would have been an hour and a quarter commute in a car today (cf 38 minutes on the bike).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 30 September, 2014, 02:43:33 pm
In my years of commuting in London, maybe I have been lucky.  I've never seen a single serious collision involving a cyclist, the odd minor prang, but nothing serious.

Whilst I didn't witness the event (and for that I am thankful), seeing the aftermath of what appears to be a very serious collision (currently, fingers crossed, reported as non-fatal but extremely serious) at the bottom of Kings Road has shaken me a lot.  I hope the rider is getting the very best attention from the medical teams and I will be thinking of them this afternoon.

Whilst it isn't directly related to the refurbishment of Putney Bridge (as they didn't touch this junction), I am still amazed (but not surprised) they spent so much money on the bridge and still have little provision for cyclist.  Many people (myself included) are using the bridge as a crossing point on an East-West direction commute - we still have to work our way across two lanes of traffic to make the right turn at either end of the bridge.  It just astounds me.

I am glad to see it open again, and, at least, riding in the bike lane is far easier now without the foot deep tank traps they called a surface.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 30 September, 2014, 03:11:30 pm
Quote from: sg37409 on 26 September, 2014, 08:23:00 am
My 400th commute to my current job.
Ooo. That's a good stat. I just checked mine. Today was my 1,139th cyclo-commute to my current job
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 30 September, 2014, 03:35:03 pm
marcus:

MPSHammFul: "All roads near PUTNEY BRIDGE are now OPEN. Thanks for your patience, the female was helped from under a lorry by #FHTeam5 & recovering well"
twitter.com/MPSHammFul/status/51­6953489290055680
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 30 September, 2014, 05:28:57 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 30 September, 2014, 03:35:03 pm
marcus:

MPSHammFul: "All roads near PUTNEY BRIDGE are now OPEN. Thanks for your patience, the female was helped from under a lorry by #FHTeam5 & recovering well"
twitter.com/MPSHammFul/status/51­6953489290055680

Let's hope so. 

Grim sight and I just knew there was going to be a bike under the truck from the second I saw it and the closed road, even from a hundred yards away.  I couldn't ride my bike for a while and had to walk and get my head straight. 

Awful and I hope she is going to be able to recover fully.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 01 October, 2014, 08:37:53 am
Some aggressive smashing by the resistance faction meant I needed to detour on the way home.

This led to:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 01 October, 2014, 02:34:44 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 01 October, 2014, 08:37:53 am
Some aggressive smashing by the resistance faction meant I needed to detour on the way home.

This led to:
  • Discovery of a pleasant tree lined cyclepath for about 5 miles.
  • An extra 10miles on the route, taking the ride home up to 35miles.
  • A 46k MU field.
Mr Charly, what on earth are you talking about? Who's smashing what and what are they resisting? What is this field?
 ???

Sounds like it was a pleasant detour, whatever the answers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 01 October, 2014, 03:38:28 pm
That's what I was thinking too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tom_e on 01 October, 2014, 03:47:05 pm
Ingress (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.nianticproject.ingress), I think.
I believe it is an "app" as the young people say, m'lud. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 01 October, 2014, 04:03:48 pm
"Wha …?" Whazzeeblatherinonaboot?

We've got another one. "Ingress?" What's that got to with a kettle of fish?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 01 October, 2014, 09:19:52 pm
Think of it as team audaxing for computer gamers
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 01 October, 2014, 09:34:51 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 01 October, 2014, 09:19:52 pm
Think of it as team audaxing for computer gamers

And nothing to do with databases.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 02 October, 2014, 12:32:22 am
Does not compute ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 02 October, 2014, 09:27:57 am
Quote from: Raymond Briggs
They'll instill commuters to control us.
:D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 02 October, 2014, 01:14:17 pm
I finally left home early enough to take my favourite route today so I was able to ride via Heol y Cyw and Coity. Exchanging a traffic light and a comprehensive school and primary school queue in a large village to a short queue past a primary school in a small village.  I also get a great downhill and a few smaller freewheels.  I am amazed after such fun that some people still drive to work.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Vince on 02 October, 2014, 04:26:44 pm
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 02 October, 2014, 01:14:17 pm
Heol y Cyw
Is that pronounced the way I think it should be, Batman?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 02 October, 2014, 07:50:08 pm
Back on after a 3-week break in which I was either too migrainey or too migrainey-hungover to cycle commute. Lovely to be out in the air rather than on the northern line which appears to be particularly hellish at present.

Commuted via a site visit in Bethnal Green and am just pondering if I can be arsed grinking the company of the D6 that merrily pulled out on me and another cyclist while indicating left, meaning we both had to take evasive action. I caught them at the traffic light and took a photo of their numberplate.

It particularly pissed me off because unlike most other traffic, if the bus is indicating right I will always give way to them if I haven't already committed.

Also, so many people have told me that I won't be able to manage a 12-mile each way commute when we move to Croydon, that now I'm feeling quite perverse about it. Though there is also a reasonable partial-Brompton option due to the Overground.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 02 October, 2014, 09:45:39 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 02 October, 2014, 07:50:08 pm

Also, so many people have told me that I won't be able to manage a 12-mile each way commute when we move to Croydon, that now I'm feeling quite perverse about it. Though there is also a reasonable partial-Brompton option due to the Overground.

Everyone is riding in from Croydon now. It's the thing to do. Soon people from Hackney will be coming to Croydon just for the ride in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 06 October, 2014, 08:46:59 am
And so the Indian summer comes to an end and silly season starts. What is it with motons and the rain? It's not like they're getting wet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 06 October, 2014, 09:14:41 am
I missed the rain !!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 06 October, 2014, 09:18:49 am
First tandem school run in the pissing rain.

Cos the SmallestCub is hardcore and badass, naturally.

(And also cos the other choice would be walking)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 06 October, 2014, 09:25:29 am
Well that was wet and windy. Very windy up here overnight and a lot of bits of tree on the roads. All this nice summer and as soon as I'm back on the bike  winter turns up ::-)

ETA - Wind between 8am and 9am this morning round here was 44 mph, gusting 63 mph. Thought it was a bit rough!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: eeymsmo on 06 October, 2014, 10:11:18 am
Windy and progressively wetter as the miles built up. Not helped by this - http://www.nottinghampost.com/A453-Clifton-Lane-closed-directions-vehicle-crash/story-23049390-detail/story.html -  pushing a lot more traffic down the normally quiet at 6:15 country roads.

But it improved when I got to work and I realised I'd forgotten the keys for my bike locks, at least the bike will dry off in the office nicely for the ride home  :thumbsup:

Next improvement was realising I'd forgotten my trousers. Now solved thanks to a quick trip to Debenhams.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 06 October, 2014, 12:28:02 pm
Basingstoke - London commute today.  Weather forecast showed rain in London from 9am to 3pm, clearing afterwards.  So didn't feel that smug or indeed the slightest bit chipper when started off in spits and spots at 5.30am.  Couldn't get the legs working at all, was only when I got the first brush of daylight on Chobham Common that I started to find any sense of rhythm.  But at least the rain had gone and in Chertsey saw one of the angriest sunrises I'm ever likely to see.  Just had my lunchtime sandwich and looking very  :smug:ly at the rain outside and hoping the second half of the weather forecast is as accurate as the first.  Will be imperial century #22 of the year, a new PB, assuing I get back in one piece.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 07 October, 2014, 09:47:57 am
Thankfully no rain today but struggled to get in, 13.3mph and with the wind in the right direction, what a struggle
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 07 October, 2014, 10:14:20 am
Rode the thorn, rather than the Brompton.

It was wet, not biblically so but enough that I couldn't feel my knees when I arrived at work.  Thankfully I chose today to start wearing craghoppers trousers, tech tops, and fleece again rather than jeans and polo shirts as I have been doing otherwise today would have been miserable.

I've been sat at my desk for 10 mins and I'm already feeling warm and drying out.

D.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 08 October, 2014, 08:58:07 am
One of those cracking autumnal mornings that remind you why you cycle commute  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Marj on 08 October, 2014, 09:05:50 am
Quote from: Si_Co on 08 October, 2014, 08:58:07 am
One of those cracking autumnal mornings that remind you why you cycle commute  :thumbsup:

It's good to see you enjoying your ride  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 08 October, 2014, 10:10:36 am
forced into the car owing to an overrun in a phone call with the CEO of the Scout Association.  Best laid plans and all, however I've managed to take some things of my todo list so I might go for a ride after work.

D.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 08 October, 2014, 10:33:26 am
Moton undertakes me, stops at end of queue for traffic lights, winds window down. I stop beside the car.

Moton (paraphrased): You're taking up too much room.

Me: You're taking the piss, look how much room you're taking up.

Moton mumbles and winds up window.

I move to the front of the queue and wait for green light. I didn't get to ask him if he was going to complain to all the motorists in front of him taking up room & I didn't get to point out that I was going to the front of the queue while he was stuck at the end.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 08 October, 2014, 12:08:35 pm
^ Nice one.

Today, for me, was not one of those superb Autumnal mornings that Si_Co describes, but sadly one of those when it's sheeting down with wind-assisted rain. Decided to walk in with brolly instead.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 08 October, 2014, 08:19:21 pm
First time for everything.

First time, in 7-odd years of commuting between york and leeds, to be hit by a car.

Not major, bike is ok. Grazed knees, shoulder and some torn back muscles. Car left-hooked me (I was in cycle lane, and riding carefully due to weather). Car lost wing mirror, acquired a dent in the door. Driver insisted they had indicated, I believe they sincerely thought they had. Meaningless anyway as they turned right into me when I was alongside them. Passerby dashed up, said they'd seen the whole thing, could be my witness, did I want them to phone the police. As bike seemed ok and I felt ok, I just shook hands on it with the driver and skedaddled before they realised how much damage was done to their car.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 08 October, 2014, 08:59:53 pm
Oh no Mr C! Hope you heal quickly and the wing mirror costs them a fortune >:(.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 October, 2014, 09:00:33 pm
OK.  Your choice.  Glad you're still with us.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Canardly on 08 October, 2014, 09:01:43 pm
Glad to hear you are Mr C. You may be a tad sore tomorrow, adrenalin tends to hide things.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 08 October, 2014, 09:15:46 pm
At that  point I still had 22miles to go, soaking wet. Back was a tad sore before I got home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 08 October, 2014, 09:46:43 pm
Oh dear. Glad you and the bike are OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 08 October, 2014, 09:51:44 pm
And hope you both really are.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 09 October, 2014, 09:14:23 am
I now know which bits of me dinged in the side of the car. Ow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 09 October, 2014, 12:47:29 pm
Ouch.

I rescued a pumpless chap next to Kempton Park racecourse today. He was on the other side of the road and in the downpour I hadn't spotted the upside down bike. He attracted my attention by miming a very exaggerated pumping action.

He's a regular along that route and had no idea where his pump had got to. He'd been there for 20 minutes apparently waiting for a cyclist to go past. I was the first.

Strangely, in all my years along this route I have only once had to abandon and catch the train, and it was almost exactly there a few months ago when I punctured, only to discover that the little rubber bit in the end of my pump had gone missing, rendering it completely useless. Knowing that this is a bit of a cyclist no-man's land, I didn't even bother waiting to try to flag someone down.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 09 October, 2014, 12:49:30 pm
Glad you're ok MrC
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 09 October, 2014, 09:27:41 pm
I hope you are OK Mr. C. I do my best to look out for or anticipate possible left hooks but there is nowt you can do if someone suddenly hauls on the steering wheel when they are right next to you. Even if they indicate at the same time  ::-)

I’m hoping that the soakings I am managing to get this week will build up some sort of protection or good karma. The only consolation is that 1) the soakings have been separated by some short spells of glorious weather and 2) it’s not that cold yet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 10 October, 2014, 07:02:24 am
A gibbering nutter of a mini-cab driver in Kingston last night.

He started with a drift into the lane where I was in primary when approaching the roundabout on the Hampton Wick side of the bridge. I tapped heavily on the car with the back of my fingers to let him know I was there. Cue overly dramatic charges and stops and swerves towards me and the bike, hurling abuse out of his window, all the while I am about four feet from the bus queueing up for the roundabout, and then a crazy overtake going round the roundabout with a stop at the pelican crossing which was at red. He jumps out of the car I presume to accost me so I admit to carrying on through the light. Comedy moment though, he did try running after me. I suspect he realised that a heart attack was more likely if he carried on like that.

He then blew past (tbf, giving me plenty of room) at waaaay over the limit once he had negotiated his way past the couple of cars in front of him.

Outside Bentalls he got through the lights and I didn't. He parked up on the drop down to the road under the railway and got out, waiting, doubtless, to collar me. As my lights turned green I got myself into the outside lane and managed to time my pass of the blobbering excuse for a human being with a Merc estate between me and him as he tried in vain to run across two lanes of traffic to get to me. By the time he was back in his car I was filtering my way through the traffic queueing up before the station.

Didn't see him again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 10 October, 2014, 09:33:56 pm
Cycle stalking again. Worse, I think it was the same woman. She's probably going to have to get a restraining order at this rate. I get away, she belts past. I slow down, she does. The lights do the rest. I figure I should make a stupid joke when we stop, but you've heard my jokes, she'd probably call the police. Hey, do you stop at these lights often? No, no, I'm keeping my mouth shut. I start to talk and it's like some diabolical Gepetto is working my mouthparts.

Anyway, if you're youngish, female, on a powder blue disk-braked Trek pedalling vigorously along the A23 from Streatham thereabouts and on to South Croydon, it's not what you think.

Phew. I feel better now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Otto on 13 October, 2014, 01:20:33 pm
Quote from: ian on 10 October, 2014, 09:33:56 pm
Cycle stalking again. Worse, I think it was the same woman. She's probably going to have to get a restraining order at this rate. I get away, she belts past. I slow down, she does. The lights do the rest. I figure I should make a stupid joke when we stop, but you've heard my jokes, she'd probably call the police. Hey, do you stop at these lights often? No, no, I'm keeping my mouth shut. I start to talk and it's like some diabolical Gepetto is working my mouthparts.

Anyway, if you're youngish, female, on a powder blue disk-braked Trek pedalling vigorously along the A23 from Streatham thereabouts and on to South Croydon, it's not what you think.

Phew. I feel better now.


Didn't see an old bloke in a big wax cotton cape did you lol... I must say I see lots vigorously pedalling young ladies through Streatham
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 13 October, 2014, 02:57:08 pm
As my wife – charitably – pointed out, she may be stalking me. Cunning plan to turn off first.

No cotton capes so far, but Streatham High Street is all a bit comedy traffic, followed by the bouncy-bouncy farside-of-the-moon roadscape of Streatham Common.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Otto on 13 October, 2014, 03:13:11 pm
Quote from: ian on 13 October, 2014, 02:57:08 pm
As my wife – charitably – pointed out, she may be stalking me. Cunning plan to turn off first.

No cotton capes so far, but Streatham High Street is all a bit comedy traffic, followed by the bouncy-bouncy farside-of-the-moon roadscape of Streatham Common.

Not quite as 'comedy' as Brixton
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 15 October, 2014, 08:10:43 am
I hit 30mph on the ride home yesterday. By 9pm my back tyre was flat. Are the two connected ???

This morning there is patchy fog. Riding along on a beautiful morning with good visibility and the silvery light shining on the mist on the fields, turn a corner and you're flying on instruments. Weird.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 15 October, 2014, 09:03:34 am
Rode in earlier this morning as it's getting to that point in the year where the sun is directly in front of me at normal commuting time. Needed the lights and a little more traffic, but I actually enjoyed it more than normal and the hills felt easier.

It's either the fact I didn't need to rush or that I raised my saddle a bit last night, but that was nice :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 15 October, 2014, 10:48:04 am
Quote from: Otto on 13 October, 2014, 03:13:11 pm
Quote from: ian on 13 October, 2014, 02:57:08 pm
As my wife – charitably – pointed out, she may be stalking me. Cunning plan to turn off first.

No cotton capes so far, but Streatham High Street is all a bit comedy traffic, followed by the bouncy-bouncy farside-of-the-moon roadscape of Streatham Common.

Not quite as 'comedy' as Brixton

True enough. Brixton always wins.

Brompton got wet for the first time yesterday evening. Now grimy as all my other bikes. Boo.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 15 October, 2014, 12:56:54 pm
After last weeks break I am really enjoying my resumption of cycle commuting. I like the break but resuming is better. As the roads are getting very mucky red bike hides in the shed until the Spring rains wash the salt off.  However orange bike has a new chain ring, sprocket and chain,  Its easy gear, 62in whee (4.9m development)(28-622 44 x 19), suits me and the hilliness of my commute. So despite the weather I remain amazed that some people drive a car to work.

This mornings clothing, knickers, long sleeved top,  long sleeved base layer and gilet.
This evenings clothing will be knickers, long sleeved base layer and rain coat.

Edit: I was wrong evenings' clothing the same as the mornings' clothing, the expected rain did not come.
   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 16 October, 2014, 12:37:58 pm
Puncture this morning, then I managed to break the wire to the hub dynamo when pulling the spade connectors off.  :facepalm:

It'll be a bodge fix too, as it was previously the correct length. At least I was carrying redundant lighting.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 16 October, 2014, 08:47:32 pm
Nasty pothole (duly logged); 4" - 5" dia. hole in a thin layer (1" if yer lucky) of tarmac and under this tarmac crust a void of some 8" in diameter/depth.  Not going to be pretty when the crust gives way.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 16 October, 2014, 10:56:46 pm
Pretty good today, caught (drafted) a bus up some of the Oxford Rd.  Not sure if others do this occasionally - not done it for a while, but I know the road etc.  Coming back at around sunset, decided that a strong front light on flash seems good for going up the 'cycle lane' on the inside of slow moving cars...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 17 October, 2014, 12:24:00 am
Draughting ?  Whenever I can. I average about once every two or three weeks for anything from a mile and a half to four miles. Makes me smile.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 17 October, 2014, 09:54:02 am
Big queue in an unusual place this morning. Found out why, someone had managed to park their Fiesta rubber-side up on a sharp left hand bend blocking the road*

Looked like the driver tried to take the corner to fast and hit the mud bank on the inside. By the time I passed the car was being recovered and the Police were writing it up.

That's twice on that road I've seen cars parked in daft places, the last was on top of a hedge - Both Fiestas!?

[eta]
Today's fiesta
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-wZSp-awN_F8/VEFFtN-koWI/AAAAAAAAHAk/-pDVyc7Yvls/s640/IMG_20141017_082156.jpg)

Last year's
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-mIZQJFHsTuw/USO9MNjwveI/AAAAAAAABWk/MIKewJZAedU/s640/2013-02-19%252008.30.13.jpg)


*To cars
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 20 October, 2014, 09:44:20 am
Absolute chaos today, silly season with a vengeance
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 20 October, 2014, 10:22:34 am
Must be a dangerous road, mcshroom. ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 20 October, 2014, 12:50:15 pm
Is it half term?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 20 October, 2014, 12:52:28 pm
Not in London. That's next week. Mostly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 20 October, 2014, 12:56:35 pm
Quote from: hatler on 20 October, 2014, 12:52:28 pm
Not in London. That's next week. Mostly.

Starts next week for state schools. My route into Victoria was just plain bonkers today- huge quantity of traffic and lots of bad bike riding too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 20 October, 2014, 01:51:30 pm
Quote from: clarion on 20 October, 2014, 10:22:34 am
Must be a dangerous road, mcshroom. ;)

Especially for Fiesta drivers apparently.

It's a rat run taken far too quickly by drivers who think they know the road too well. When the rats aren't running, it's a lovely road (also part of NCN72) :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 20 October, 2014, 07:33:31 pm
Close call with a cement mixer overtaking me doing 40mph, with oncoming HGV on other side.  Made my blood boil, so much so that I had a look on two of the construction sites near work, to see if I could have a word.  No joy.  Two punctures.  Had better days.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 20 October, 2014, 08:56:51 pm
Quote from: andyoxon on 20 October, 2014, 07:33:31 pm
Close call with a cement mixer overtaking me doing 40mph passed me, with oncoming HGV on other side.  Made my blood boil, so much so that I had a look on two of the construction sites near work, to see if I could have a word.  No joy.  Two punctures.  Had better days.

I raise you. Had knee aches, and a puncture (that 2x consecutive punctures), and fell off the bike, gouging the lever and hurting my hands and legs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 20 October, 2014, 09:15:44 pm
Quote from: velosam on 20 October, 2014, 08:56:51 pm
I raise you. Had knee aches, and a puncture (that 2x consecutive punctures), and fell off the bike, gouging the lever and hurting my hands and legs.

Nasty, GWS velosam.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 21 October, 2014, 08:38:56 am
Weeeeeeeeeeeeee   ;D

What a buzz!! Journey home might be a bit different
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 21 October, 2014, 08:42:38 am
Good news!

The fluorescent jacket that leaked, and I reproofed with Nikwax recently, was put to a test this morning, and still malfunctions.

However, had it not been for the trouser strap on my right ankle, all of my jeans would have been wet.

Soggy.  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 21 October, 2014, 09:15:45 am
That was fun, flying along with a tail wind, then turned quickly to not fun, riding down the exposed road towards the sea with a strong side wind and hail/heavy rain.

Ride home should be slow interesting, even more wind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 21 October, 2014, 12:41:23 pm
I think it was 1989 when the Mighty Rushing Headwind going into jbex was so Mighty and Rushing that at one point I had to lunge for a lamp post to prevent myself from being blown bodily backwards into the Stratford (E15) one-way system.

Natch by home-time the wind had dwindled to sod-all >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 21 October, 2014, 01:28:11 pm
I was very disappointed with the wind.  This morning I was expecting a near impossible challenge riding 16 miles directly into the wind.  I expected more. As I cycled along I see a line of stopped cars ahead.  First thought just roll down the hill to the back of the queue.  Second thought Oh! I better pedal. Apart from that no wind tales. I expect worse this Winter. On the other hand if were to continue like this all week I would be knackered by Friday.


 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 21 October, 2014, 01:57:27 pm
Pretty horrendous headwind. I invented the phrase 'tunneling through densely packed squirrels' precisely to categorise the experience and it remains the best description. Worse than the stand-up-and-grind and need to pedal downhill were the vortexes of leafy hurt whirling around Streatham and Brixton. A low-flying recycling bin lid nearly removed my head coming down Brixton Hill.

What are the odds that the wind will have reversed to give me the same experience on the way home?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 21 October, 2014, 01:57:51 pm
Odd, ian, I had the tailwind on the way in today. Probably because I was going north and east at first, rather than west. Not too anyway this morning at 7ish as I headed into Central London.  On the way back, after a half day's work, wind was stronger and now in my face, a bit.  As I turned off Loampit Vale into Elmira St, a huge gust slammed into me.  The bike seemed to momentarily lift and move sideways and I struggled to get back on track.  I was wondering if it was wind tunnel effect caused by two new tallish buildings opposite each other on the corner, one finished and one still being built.  No idea how tall the newest one will be and if this will make the effect worse.  Do planners take this kind of thing into account at all?

The top of this road and these buildings, if anyone knows it.  I took the photo looking back after I had passed through the junction.  It's not a great photo...had just come over all dark and brooding.

(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5616/15567966286_65c085df18_b.jpg) (https://www.flickr.com/photos/16762068@N04/15567966286/)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 21 October, 2014, 02:16:47 pm
Quote from: jane on 21 October, 2014, 01:57:51 pm
......... No idea how tall the newest one will be ...........
A bit lower than the jib of the crane...

Having Hoxtonific deep rims on the Pompino is all very well, but on a day like today I may as well fit sails to the bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 October, 2014, 03:02:22 pm
I hope windy's commuting on a bike made of lead today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 21 October, 2014, 03:42:58 pm
Quote from: jane on 21 October, 2014, 01:57:51 pm
  No idea how tall the newest one will be and if this will make the effect worse.  Do planners take this kind of thing into account at all?

No
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bridgewater_Place#Wind_issues (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bridgewater_Place#Wind_issues)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 21 October, 2014, 03:44:01 pm
Glancing out the office window it looks proper windy now  :-\ Sunny though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 21 October, 2014, 04:39:20 pm
Just been out to make a phone call..its mental out there...not looking forward to this.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 21 October, 2014, 05:54:53 pm
That was tough. Not sure I want to see the time it took. Home though :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 21 October, 2014, 06:18:34 pm
Well, although very windy, it wasn't that bad in Brum.  Only dangerous while still amongst the tall buildings of central Birmingham.  I've experienced worse in the last few years.
What did surprise me was how bloody cold it was this evening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 21 October, 2014, 06:34:10 pm
Quote from: Basil on 21 October, 2014, 06:18:34 pm
Well, although very windy, it wasn't that bad in Brum.

I was silly enough to take a trailer up the Silly Oak bypass.  Had to deploy the granny ring into the wind on the flat wind-tunnel section under the railway/canal bridges.

But not as hazardous as a gusty sidewind.  Had a bit of that on Sunday that was more wobble-inducing than today's more constant blow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 21 October, 2014, 08:12:27 pm
The wind was undecided on the way home. One moment I'd be flying, the next I'd be that bird hitting the patio door. Then it rained on me, proper cold rain, reminding me that it's nearly November. I was, at least, attacked by fewer leaves and no bin lids.

The power was out in the valley, which was spooky, there being no streetlights or traffic lights. Just came back on as I arrived home, which was good, because I wanted and needed a hot shower.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 21 October, 2014, 09:18:46 pm
Not a great ride home, at 7.15 or so. There seemed to have been a delay in the rush hour, causing increased idiocy among the motons.

Rode home via Pilates class in Chiswick. I’m undecided as to the least bad bridge to cross to the south, but I am starting to consider switching back to Kew Bridge rather than Clifford Avenue / A316. The northern side of Kew Bridge isn’t great but the average moton speed going across Clifford Avenue really wasn’t that nice, given their close proximity to me.

 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 21 October, 2014, 09:23:43 pm
Unexpectedly easy ride home.
Blown home for part of it.
Rained on (insignificantly) for other parts of it.
Washed, fed and looking forward to getting under the duvet.
Rock n'roll in Forest Hill?
Hell. Yeah!

ETA - Temp drop has been noticeable though... could mean longs for tomorrow.....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 21 October, 2014, 09:35:40 pm
Wimped out. Am scared of the wind ever since a gust blew me onto the wrong side of the road a few years back; it was only luck that nothing was coming the other way at the time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PAC on 21 October, 2014, 09:55:25 pm
Superb tailwind on the way in :thumbsup:  Evil headwind on the way home :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 22 October, 2014, 07:47:48 am
Quote from: jane on 21 October, 2014, 01:57:51 pm
... Do planners take this kind of thing into account at all? ...

I don't think so.  There are two points on my commute where large buildings cause, odd, strong and unpredictable gusts.  The Fusion (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/search/420+London+Rd/@51.3860728,-0.1102989,53m/data=!3m1!1e3) building, on the North side of Croydon, complete with wind turbines which rarely seem to be operational, and these new(ish) residential buildings (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/search/420+London+Rd/@51.4820121,-0.1491636,191m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1) on Queenstown Road.  I know that when it's windy, and I'm passing these buildings, the tall structures can cause the wind at ground level to be very strong, and in any direction, and frequently rapidly changing as you pass them.

This morning was wonderfully easy compared to yesterday, little wind, and bone dry.  Having said that, by some strange and unusually bizarre circumstances, the wind was behind me, both cycling into work, and cycling home, yesterday. :)  Normally the opposite happens!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 22 October, 2014, 10:28:20 am
Apparently my lungs have not totally recovered from my cold as I arrived into the work car park, late and coughing like a 40 a day smoker.  Maybe I shouldn't have run and cycled this morning but it was a dry day and I'm trying to be good.

Am now trying not to spread my plague around the office with the hacking noises I seem to be making.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 22 October, 2014, 12:48:46 pm
Quote from: TimO on 22 October, 2014, 07:47:48 am
Quote from: jane on 21 October, 2014, 01:57:51 pm
... Do planners take this kind of thing into account at all? ...

I don't think so.  There are two points on my commute where large buildings cause, odd, strong and unpredictable gusts. 

I doubt that planners even think about it.  It's only a problem to cyclists and a minority of pedestrians.  And realistically, the sort of structures that reduce the wind-tunnel effect aren't usually conducive to the flow of traffic.

The great thing about this time of year is there's enough dry leaf debris that you can see the gusts and vortices before you hit them.  The not so great thing is that it tends to hit you in the face.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 22 October, 2014, 12:53:00 pm
Quote from: TimO on 22 October, 2014, 07:47:48 am
Quote from: jane on 21 October, 2014, 01:57:51 pm
... Do planners take this kind of thing into account at all? ...

I don't think so.  There are two points on my commute where large buildings cause, odd, strong and unpredictable gusts.

If they can't take into account whether or not a building designed by an architect who has form is going to melt parked cars, I seriously doubt cyclists and winds are even an afterthought.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 22 October, 2014, 12:58:23 pm
Architects do take shadows and (often) wind effects at ground level for large buildings into account.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 22 October, 2014, 01:17:21 pm
yes they learnt the hard way at ferrybridge when the 3 of 8 cooling towers collapsed in large part because the wind shedding off the first row overloaded the second row.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 22 October, 2014, 01:40:31 pm
Wimped out yesterday, the wind over the Severn Bridge was quite high. Today was nice though - no wind, clear,  and not too cold.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 22 October, 2014, 02:03:29 pm
No matter which way the wind blows in the rest of Londonton, it blows from all points of the compass simultaneously on the Hammersmith flyover.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 23 October, 2014, 08:40:00 am
Quote from: Mr Larrington on 22 October, 2014, 02:03:29 pm
No matter which way the wind blows in the rest of Londonton, it blows from all points of the compass simultaneously on the Hammersmith flyover.

Does it make any difference though?  I mean, nothing's moving on there ......  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 23 October, 2014, 03:11:36 pm
Quote from: SJSBrompton on 23 October, 2014, 08:40:00 am
Quote from: Mr Larrington on 22 October, 2014, 02:03:29 pm
No matter which way the wind blows in the rest of Londonton, it blows from all points of the compass simultaneously on the Hammersmith flyover.

Does it make any difference though?  I mean, nothing's moving on there ......  ::-)

When I was a Penniless Student Oaf I used to cycle across it daily...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jakob W on 23 October, 2014, 03:43:05 pm
First (gentle) commute on the bike in about four weeks, as the broken collarbone seems happy enough, and the physiotherapist said it was OK so long as I wasn't in pain. It's under 4 miles, so a nice gentle start - more trouble from the cold and stuffy nose than from the arm, though gear changes on the DT levers a bit stiffer than usual. Will probably stick to the Dutch bike once I've put the new back tyre on, but nice to know that I can still ride on the hoods if need be, and indeed that I didn't prang the bike too badly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 23 October, 2014, 04:10:21 pm
:thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Blade on 24 October, 2014, 05:50:13 pm
Today on my commute, absolutely nothing out of the ordinary happened.
However.....it was my last commute EVER  :thumbsup:
After 49 years of commuting, I've qualified for my state pension, and so today was my last day at work EVER  :thumbsup:
With the aid of Google maps and my diminishing memory, I've worked out that :
I've commuted, mostly on urban roads, for approximately 220,000 miles.
I've had four physical interactions with motorised vehicles. One hit from behind by a scooter, one dooring, one left hook and one head on collision with a car which involved me entering the car via the windscreen.
So that works out at one physical interaction per 55,000 miles. Not so bad I suppose.
Near misses.....I've lost count.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 25 October, 2014, 10:49:47 am
Horrible commute on Friday evening. I rode out of work as normal stopped as soon as I left the office car park. Put on my rain coat. I rode past the station and out of Pencoed and around the roundabout over the railway towards Llanharan.  I feel the bike is slipping a bit. At first I decide it is just drizzle on leafy roads but just before the film studio I decide something is wrong. I squeeze the back tyre and no problem is found.  I squeeze the front tyre and discover it to be flat. It looked ok when I was riding.  I insert my tyre lever which immediately snaps.  I then had a quick look at the tyre to see if the cause was still stuck in it.  To my horror I discovered that  a section of the tyre had been torn to ribbons. It was a good thing I initially failed to get the tyre off replacing the tube would be pointless.  I hit something unseen hard a couple of days ago and the bike jumped in the air. I assume thats when the damage occurred.  I think I'm mid way between two stations. Its a little further to Llanharan than Pencoed but  the fare will be a little cheaper so I head towards home.  Walking in cycling shoes is never fun and I soon had a blister on my heel.  I arrive at Llanharan station and wait 40 minutes for a train and eventually arrive home at 8pm, an hour and a half late.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Reg.T on 27 October, 2014, 09:29:10 am
Mild!

Roads in my home town seemed deserted due to half term, but the main road wasn't much different to normal.

Only one moderately close pass from a WVM who gave much more space the second time round. And another WVM who held back patiently while I passed several parked cars, despite the road being wide and clear, and then later left a large gap while I drafted the lorry in front of him.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 27 October, 2014, 10:26:46 am
Quote from: Reg.T on 27 October, 2014, 09:29:10 am
Roads in my home town seemed deserted due to half term {snip}
Ahhhh, _that's_ what it is.  I did wonder.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 27 October, 2014, 11:05:09 am
It was so quiet over the first mile of my commute I was begining to wonder if the clocks had gone back a whole day rather than just an hour.  Was it still Sunday?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 27 October, 2014, 12:39:45 pm
15 degrees at 6am today!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonJo on 27 October, 2014, 05:06:59 pm
Weather forecast said still windy so I put on a windproof top. No problems on a steady, wind assisted bimble into work.
Had to gi' it what for on the way home though as I had a train to catch. After 2 miles into the wind at ~18C I was leaking all over. Rode the rest of the way in my Rab C Nesbitt style string vest. Got some odd looks on C-l-S Front Street but it was much more comfortable than the windproof.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 27 October, 2014, 05:32:48 pm
Great reduction in the number of other commuting cyclists today.  That always seems to happen when the clocks go back and those who can't for the life of them work out how you buy lights, just give up.
That, and it coinciding with the start of half term I suppose.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 27 October, 2014, 07:01:16 pm
Ride in. Blustery but too warm. Should have reverted back to the fingerless gloves, and possibly even the shorts.
Ride home. Two other bikes, both with drops, going the same was as me. One had a small thermonuclear device on the back--I'm sure no cycle light can be that bright. Hurt my eyes!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 27 October, 2014, 07:12:09 pm
Ooh it was dark on the way home. The new Cyo Premium got a proper test on the way back. Pretty good :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 27 October, 2014, 10:52:45 pm
It was brighter on the way in and correspondingly darker on the way home- cue the annual dose of THE FEAR as I reaquaint myself with dealing with motorised traffic on big roundabouts and busy roads in the dark. Soon be reet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 28 October, 2014, 12:39:35 pm
I have not adjusted to GMT yet.  It was not done deliberately, but the bright morning signaled my unconscious that I need to complete my morning task urgently so I left the house early and arrive at work half an hour early.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 29 October, 2014, 10:50:37 am
First day at work since last Wednesday, so I too still have to make the adjustment to GMT. I do wish they wouldn't p155 about with the clocks, it takes me weeks to sort my body clock out.

Chilly this morning, a gentle reminder that it is the end of October, but very quiet  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 29 October, 2014, 11:10:50 am
Quote from: Si_Co on 29 October, 2014, 10:50:37 am
First day at work since last Wednesday, so I too still have to make the adjustment to GMT. I do wish they wouldn't p155 about with the clocks, it takes me weeks to sort my body clock out.

I'm still operating on Mountain Time in spite of having been back in Blighty over a month >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 29 October, 2014, 11:42:55 am
I cycled to the new office for the first time today.

One wrong turn - got confused at the A38/A4174 roundabout at Filton and turned left instead of straight on. Realised something wasn't right when I saw a sign for Clifton (where I'd just been).

Was 46km - would be maybe 44-45km without that mistake.

www.strava.com/activities/213068947
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 29 October, 2014, 04:13:32 pm
Quote from: simonp on 29 October, 2014, 11:42:55 am
I cycled to the new office for the first time today.

One wrong turn - got confused at the A38/A4174 roundabout at Filton and turned left instead of straight on. Realised something wasn't right when I saw a sign for Clifton (where I'd just been).

Was 46km - would be maybe 44-45km without that mistake.

www.strava.com/activities/213068947

That's awesome I thought my 18 miles was hard!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 30 October, 2014, 10:10:53 pm
Basingstoke - London - Basingstoke commute planned for tomorrow.  Tired of half-term-trains full of families on Sweaty Trains half-term specials.  Newnham Lane - A30 - Bagshot - Windlesham - Chertsey - Shepperton - Kingston - Richmond Park - CS8 - Lambeth Bridge - Embankment is the planned route.  If you see a cyclist in CCB kit give me a wave  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 31 October, 2014, 08:39:41 am
Should have reverted to shorts and t-shirt today. Sadly my planning ahead wasnt that good. 
Its really warm.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 31 October, 2014, 09:34:18 am
I noticed that too. Bit windy but shorts, shirt and gilet was too warm this morning. What's going on? It's November tomorrow!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: phantasmagoriana on 31 October, 2014, 09:42:27 am
Quote from: mcshroom on 31 October, 2014, 09:34:18 am
I noticed that too. Bit windy but shorts, shirt and gilet was too warm this morning. What's going on? It's November tomorrow!

I was dressed for winter on my ride last night - big mistake!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 31 October, 2014, 09:43:56 am
On the subject of weather, I have just looked at the forecast for tonight, for the night ride.  Overnight temps ~17C!!!!

If it's true (and I suspect that it will be a lot colder than that over the moors) then it's going to be Carlisle > Newcastle all over again, whereby I was sweating buckets until it rained...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: interzen on 31 October, 2014, 10:01:10 am
Quote from: tiermat on 31 October, 2014, 09:43:56 am
On the subject of weather, I have just looked at the forecast for tonight, for the night ride.  Overnight temps ~17C!!!!

If it's true (and I suspect that it will be a lot colder than that over the moors) then it's going to be Carlisle > Newcastle all over again, whereby I was sweating buckets until it rained...
I did my walk to the Park and Ride (about 2.5 miles) in T-shirt/jeans this morning.

7.15am at the end of October and it was warm enough for just a T-shirt with just enough of a breeze to stop me getting too sweaty.

Long may it continue ...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 02 November, 2014, 02:36:04 pm
Not commuting, and no bike involved, but on a countryside walk in Devon on Thursday it was so warm I had to take my t-shirt off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 03 November, 2014, 07:35:24 am
This morning I almost got taken out by a goose wandering across the cycle path from Eagle Pond on Clapham Common.  They're normally not the brightest of animals, but this one managed to emulate the average London pedestrian, by stepping out in front of me at the last minute, with no warning.  It then managed to squawk in fright, and half heartedly run out of the way, also remarkably like a London pedestrian!

That was followed 30 seconds later by a squirrel doing its best to get caught in my wheel, running across Windmill Road with observational techniques equal of the goose!

I've managed to cycle through there for almost a decade, with no wildlife interactions, and then have two on one commute. ;D :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 03 November, 2014, 10:27:07 am
It feels like Autumn. The damp, diesel smeared roads, the desperate rush of people attempting to mitigate the reality of thousands of extra commuters dropping off children on the first day back at school.

The timing of lights worked in my favour at Brixton this morning and I had the option of overtaking a bus as it moved off from a standstill. (There are several reasons why it would have been a good idea to take the opportunity: I'm faster, so I wouldn't be playing leapfrog; I'd stay in the clear section of road rather than get backed into the chasing traffic; I wouldn't have to negotiate my way into the outside lane as speeding cars accelerated past when the bus pulled in to the next stop; plus I was already at a speed and in the correct lane to perform the overtake.) I decided to drop in behind the bus, which was quite fortunate as a car from the left jumped the lights a full two seconds after they had changed to green. The driver floored it in order to get across in front of the bus which funnily enough obscured any view of the outside lane. I've been taken out like that before and the suddenness and violence is horrible.

A couple of miles later and while rolling to a stop at a red light outside Lambeth North I had my eye on the reflections off the side of the car next to me. They gave me the first cue that I needed to stay clipped in. I jumped the light to allow the rapidly closing car behind to come to a halt substantially less than a bike's length behind the line.

My journeys home over the next few days are fortunately much later than rush hour - I'll give everyone else some time to acclimatise before I try that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 04 November, 2014, 08:33:50 am
Last night was not a good night for my commute options,

First choice of the train was badly disrupted by a signal power failure between Barnes and Richmond... Therefore fall back to having the bike at work and a 15 mile ride home.

All was going well until ~ half way home I encountered a police car across the road lights on and road closed sign out. Despite attempting to ask politely if I could get through I was turned onto a divert. When I mentioned not fancying the A329 in the dark with the traffic volumes anticipated at 18:20, I was informed I could ride on the pavement and if challenged say the police officer said it was OK.

I didn't have the heart to tell him the section that worried me doesn't have a footway but was this (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/dir//51.4097383,-0.7927548/@51.4088532,-0.7882751,15z) bit between the Coppid Beach roundabout and Twin Bridges Roundabout.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 04 November, 2014, 10:12:08 am
Sorry to hear that Matthew.

Now then. Having looked at the area on your link, what's going on in the field over to the left of the map!!? Never seen a field with those regular (but odd) markings like that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 04 November, 2014, 11:33:14 am
That area is no longer a field but a new housing development, my guess is checking on ground conditions prior to the stripping of the topsoil.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 04 November, 2014, 11:58:54 am
A pity. Much more traffic expected I guess.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 05 November, 2014, 04:28:08 pm
Sunset on one side, rainbow on the other, glowing clouds all around this evening. And I got home before the rain.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ruthie on 05 November, 2014, 05:20:34 pm
There have been some spectacular skies in Darlo today. The full moon shining in the evening sky through the clouds was gorgeous.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 05 November, 2014, 06:07:34 pm
Warnings about frost overnight so I put the studded tyres on. Snap, Crackle and Pop!

(Of course there was no ice)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moultonaught on 06 November, 2014, 08:33:57 am
Chilly mile ride to the station at 6.25 this morning. Thanks to a notable frost my rear brake didn't initially release when applied until pumped vigorously! Need to dig out my winter hat... Chilly ears...

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 06 November, 2014, 08:52:20 am
A tad fresh this morning.

Bits are recovering nicely after shower (which was warm as opposed to hot due to recalcitrant boiler).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 06 November, 2014, 09:16:14 am
Did the long commute for the first time in ages. Loved it. Fresh and sunny, with atmospheric early morning mist over the Seasalter marshes, which veterans of the Whitstable FNRttC will know about.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 06 November, 2014, 11:17:33 am
About 35 miles or so to get into work today- ridiculously freezing I can't take it already and it's only 6th November. TOO COLD
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 06 November, 2014, 11:33:28 am
Expected ice as it was frosting over when I went to bed. By the time I rode in it was warming up and chucking it down, so another day of lugging studs for no reason then ::-)

At least the new Scwhalbe Winters are not as slow as my old Snow Studs
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 06 November, 2014, 03:05:21 pm
Frosty... but I was out later as I had to see the vampires at the health centre. I very, very nearly got left-hooked.

I pulled up at the lights by the Forester's pub on Victoria Road, which is a T-junction, straight on or left. There were three cars waiting on a red light, and because I didn't know where they were in their cycle I stopped behind them rather than enter the ASL. I took the middle of the lane to make my point, and did the usual point straight ahead when a car pulled up behind me.

Lights go green, cars in front move off and I follow. Revving from behind, and he's overtaking me despite oncoming traffic, and his bonnet is to my right and he has his bloody winker going.

"Oy!" but he still starts to turn in. Stop hard, left foot to deck and right hand slap to his bonnet. That (thank ****) stopped him.

My blood pressure was somewhat high when I got it tested at the clinic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 06 November, 2014, 04:26:42 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 06 November, 2014, 09:16:14 am
Did the long commute for the first time in ages. Loved it. Fresh and sunny, with atmospheric early morning mist over the Seasalter marshes, which veterans of the Whitstable FNRttC will know about.
That's a nice way to start the day - I take it that the HS1 serves your new workplace better than the Victoria train.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 06 November, 2014, 04:50:54 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 06 November, 2014, 04:26:42 pm
I take it that the HS1 serves your new workplace better than the Victoria train.

Yes, kind of - because the HS1 starts from Faversham, I have to get the normal train from Whitstable and change there (unless I go obscenely early and get the direct service that starts in Ramsgate), so the overall journey time isn't that much quicker than going to Cannon Street or Victoria (although St Pancras is closer to the office which takes another few minutes off). Taking the HS1 from Canterbury knocks a significant chunk off my overall journey time (a good 30 minutes) but it is a lot more expensive.

Plus the guards at Kings Cross are much stricter about taking my bike through before 10am so I don't go that way unless I'm on the Brompton. (The guards on the train are fine, being sensible enough to take account of the fact that the train isn't actually that packed, so me taking a non-folding bike aboard isn't actually a problem for anyone.)

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 06 November, 2014, 09:33:22 pm
This morning, on the ride through town to work, the bonfire clear up was already happening. I ride through one fire site and there's still little flames on the remains of the bonfire, not just hot ash and smoke. It was chilly, but fresh, with just a touch of day after about it in town.

This evening, spitting. Had a bit of a slidey moment on some mud / leaves on the cycle path.

Apart from that felt stronger than I have on my occasional rides for the last few weeks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 07 November, 2014, 08:45:10 am
Paddle required, given how unwell I've been this week not sure that was one of my better ideas but got up late and would have been been a massive rush to the train station, besides not sure I could face another trip in the cattle car.

Followed another rider for the last mile or so, he'd obviously been kitted out head to toe and bike by a well known bike co-op since I have now have Tracy Chapman - Revolution going round in my head.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 07 November, 2014, 09:29:44 am
Wet and windy. The merits of disc brakes become apparent when you're riding through puddles deep enough that you dip your toes in them while pedalling.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 07 November, 2014, 01:21:17 pm
I was expecting a soaking but I didn't even need to remove my glasses. There was very light rain but not enough to make me wet through my no longer waterproof coat. The wind did not bother me until end of my ride. On the dual carriageway into Bridgend I really struggled on the downhill part of the false flat. I was a little worried as I went around the roundabout but got around safely. I arrived in work grateful that the big headwind only started at the end of my commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 08 November, 2014, 09:55:31 am
Who are all these people in shorts and t-shirts and no gloves whatsoever?! Brrrrr.

Last couple of weeks of cycling over Tower Bridge twice a day. Mixed feelings about that. It's a beautiful bridge, and I like the views, but there is some less than beautiful driving on it, and the surface is fooked esp if you're on little wheels.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 08 November, 2014, 10:22:14 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 08 November, 2014, 09:55:31 am
Who are all these people in shorts and t-shirts and no gloves whatsoever?! Brrrrr.


(http://www.sherv.net/cm/emoticons/hello/little-cutie-says-hello-smiley-emoticon.gif)

(although I confess I did wear a long sleeve summer weight the other morning)

And yes, I feel your pain on the bridge. The edge of the bridge has been like that and getting worse for years.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 08 November, 2014, 12:20:38 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 08 November, 2014, 09:55:31 am
Who are all these people in shorts and t-shirts and no gloves whatsoever?! Brrrrr.

Geordie immigrunts, I expect ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 11 November, 2014, 10:08:46 am
As I climbed Warwards Lane this morning I noticed, as I neared the top, cars 3 point turning around and coming back down.  Soon, I was able to see a police car blocking the road.  No probs, it’ll be some sort of RTC and I’ll be able to squeeze through.
No, when I arrived I found the whole road closed off with incident/do not cross tape, so no way through at all.  Luckily I could take a cut across the park.

Someone found another WWII shell in their shed or something?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 11 November, 2014, 11:26:44 am
Gun amnesty in Sutton, some soppy old duffer rolled up at the cop shop with a WW2 mortar.

Track standing like a boss this morning, missed my toe clip and gouged my shin down the pedal.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 11 November, 2014, 11:28:17 am
Quote from: Basil on 11 November, 2014, 10:08:46 am
As I climbed Warwards Lane this morning I noticed, as I neared the top, cars 3 point turning around and coming back down.  Soon, I was able to see a police car blocking the road.  No probs, it’ll be some sort of RTC and I’ll be able to squeeze through.
No, when I arrived I found the whole road closed off with incident/do not cross tape, so no way through at all.  Luckily I could take a cut across the park.

Someone found another WWII shell in their shed or something?

An alleged shooting, allegedly.  In the early hours of this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 11 November, 2014, 11:32:21 am
Oh,sorry, I thought it was this:


http://www.standard.co.uk/news/london/veteran-who-sparked-bomb-scare-when-he-handed-in-wwii-mortar-to-police-i-have-never-seen-police-officers-run-so-fast-9852662.html


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 11 November, 2014, 12:05:52 pm
http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/warwards-lane-selly-oak-police-8087031
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 11 November, 2014, 12:24:06 pm
Quote from: Kim on 11 November, 2014, 12:05:52 pm
http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/warwards-lane-selly-oak-police-8087031

"Police were directing traffic but it was unclear how long the closure would remain in place."
(My bold)
No they bloody weren't.  Rush hour traffic was all heading up the road and then having to do a three point turn at the top when gurned at by a copper in a car
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 11 November, 2014, 12:47:03 pm
Quote from: Kim on 11 November, 2014, 12:05:52 pm
http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/warwards-lane-selly-oak-police-8087031
Oh blx. Am I the only one who saw the title on the 'we'd like you to take a survery' pop-up as 'BIRMINGHAM MAMIL'?

I've been here way too long.  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 12 November, 2014, 02:38:51 am
Raining. Again. First time out this autumn in three-quarter-longs.

The fairies were waiting what would have been five minutes away from my bike pod. I will be walking home in the morning as I left the pump behind.

Bollocks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 12 November, 2014, 08:15:20 am
Got it completely wrong this morning.  A glance at the rain radar revealed a huge wodge of rain rapidly heading to Brum.  Quick!  Gulp coffee, grab stuff and get out on the bike. 
Too late, it was just starting as I set off.  So, I took the direct route to work – something I’ve not done for a year now.
As I was walking across the car park at work, it stopped raining.

As Steph says.  Bollocks!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 12 November, 2014, 08:38:17 am
Home, and visitation banished. And just like with Basil, it chucked it down all the way home but is now sunny and dry.

Bollocks and arsebollocks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 12 November, 2014, 08:54:58 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 08 November, 2014, 09:55:31 am
Who are all these people in shorts and t-shirts and no gloves whatsoever?! Brrrrr.

Last couple of weeks of cycling over Tower Bridge twice a day. Mixed feelings about that. It's a beautiful bridge, and I like the views, but there is some less than beautiful driving on it, and the surface is fooked esp if you're on little wheels.
I thought I read somewhere that they were planning to sort that strange lump of Tarmac that surges up at the side of Tower Bridge roadway,  almost along it's complete width.  Maybe I dreamt it.
Lately, I have been doing lots of different commutes, riding with bikeability level 3 trainees, many of whom want help with negotiating particular junctions etc on their commutes.  This morning's was Brockley to Kings College.  Trainee amazed that the "quiet" version only took a few minutes longer than the main roads. 
Incidentally, I have a tricky one coming up, maybe someone here can help.  Brockley to Archway....I have it sussed to Euston, but thereafter can't really come up with a viable alternative to the main road up there.  And the individual doesn't really want to ride those roads.  Any ideas?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 12 November, 2014, 11:29:48 am
The route to Camden Town is OK, go up to The Shaw Theatre, turn left and head on up (there are bike paths through where there are no roads). Royal College Street has a good bike lane if I remember right. Not sure how you can avoid Kentish town road across the bridge, and there will be others more familiar with the territory north of there than I am
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 12 November, 2014, 08:59:58 pm
Quote from: jane on 12 November, 2014, 08:54:58 am
I thought I read somewhere that they were planning to sort that strange lump of Tarmac that surges up at the side of Tower Bridge roadway,  almost along it's complete width.  Maybe I dreamt it.


Well, it's very much not sorted yet, and going the other way there's now a big chunk of tarmac missing by one of the joins.

I can't help with your request I'm afraid. I could probably do with your help myself, for my humungous (to me) new commute (West Croydon to East India Dock). All I've come up with so far involves blatting up mostly main roads, which I can probably deal with, is least likely to get me lost, and in fact takes me right past the road you live on. But, as it's very much all new to me, any advice (or trial runs!) welcome.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jsabine on 12 November, 2014, 10:08:40 pm
Quote from: jane on 12 November, 2014, 08:54:58 am
Brockley to Archway....I have it sussed to Euston, but thereafter can't really come up with a viable alternative to the main road up there.  And the individual doesn't really want to ride those roads.  Any ideas?

Is it worth getting to Kings Cross rather than Euston, and then York Way/Brecknock Road? Still busy, but I find it a bit less frenetic than Camden.

Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 12 November, 2014, 08:59:58 pm
West Croydon to East India Dock). All I've come up with so far involves blatting up mostly main roads,

Have you tried coming more east of north, Elmers End/Beckenham or Kent House/Sydenham, Catford, Lee or Hither Green, Blackheath, park, tunnel, up the Island? Some of the estates are a bit mazy but there are routes through, and the heath followed by Isle of Dogs is perhaps nicer than Tower Bridge to East India.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 12 November, 2014, 10:20:19 pm
Laura, gimme your prospective postcode, and I'll see if I can figure out something half civilised.
Destination postcode would be useful too.
:)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 13 November, 2014, 06:50:41 am
There is a quiet way through to Croydon from me but it will add time to your journey...I don't know the first bit of it well, but can get the route from another Lewisham Cyclist who does. It leads you on to the Waterlink Way which is a traffic free route...lots of commuting cyclists use it and it can take you right up to Greenwich Church St. 

The main road route isn't too bad apart from the Penge bit! All traffic lights and jams.  Through Sydenham, across the S. Circ and on to Brockley Rise. From the bottom of my road it's easy to Greenwich and the tunnel, which us probably the way I'd go, and not too bad, traffic and junction wise (Deptford Bridge junction can easily be avoided, if you wanted).
    I'm waffling....like Jurek, I could probably map you several routes.   I'll try tonight.  Am off out now with another trainee who wants help with a route from Crystal Palace to the Fulham Rd.  Then on to the first day of my City and Guilds Cycle Mechanics course.  Looking forward to that.  Although the first day looks a bit basic, to be honest.  From fixing a puncture to building a complete bike in 10 days. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 13 November, 2014, 09:57:13 am
Not sure today was the best day to back to single-speed commuting. Windy!

Quote
South or southeast 7 to severe gale 9, decreasing 5 or 6 for a time.
(Inshore water forecast, I commute along the coast)

Should be fun going home though :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 13 November, 2014, 11:04:33 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 12 November, 2014, 08:59:58 pm
Quote from: jane on 12 November, 2014, 08:54:58 am
I thought I read somewhere that they were planning to sort that strange lump of Tarmac that surges up at the side of Tower Bridge roadway,  almost along it's complete width.  Maybe I dreamt it.


Well, it's very much not sorted yet, and going the other way there's now a big chunk of tarmac missing by one of the joins.

I can't help with your request I'm afraid. I could probably do with your help myself, for my humungous (to me) new commute (West Croydon to East India Dock). All I've come up with so far involves blatting up mostly main roads, which I can probably deal with, is least likely to get me lost, and in fact takes me right past the road you live on. But, as it's very much all new to me, any advice (or trial runs!) welcome.

I'm not sure there is a good route. You could raise Waywarde, the Demon of the Routes, but involves one of those dark ceremonies at the crossroad above the Croydon underpass at midnight. No one is sure how she arrives on a tram from New Addington at that time, but that's how she always appears.

When I'm cycling to Canary Wharf (the mothership there has nicer executive toilets), once I hit Croydonia I take the back route (College Road) that parallels George Street, skip across the aforementioned junction and then take the left before East Croydon station into Dingwall St and then right at the roundabout into Lansdowne Road. At the end go right onto Lower Addiscombe Road and over the train tracks, and then left into Davison Road which takes the proctologist's route into South Norwood. From there you can either pick up the Waterlink Way which is pleasant and quick enough in daylight (probably best avoided after dark). The other option is to pick up quiet roads from South Norwood (on the far side of South Norwood, after the pedestrian tunnel under the tracks), turn left up Cambridge Road the across into Selby Road/Seymour Villa, left onto the main road over the tracks at Anerley station, then right into Anerley Park. You can keep heading north through Lawrie Park Road Road to Sydenham, then Silverdale to Forest Hill and then follow the LCN signs up the backs of Brockley. At the point where it goes over the pedestrian bridge over the tracks towards Peckham, you can drop back across Brockley Rise/Rd. At that point I'd take Wickham Road then Friendly Road to Deptford and pick up the dog-end of the Waterlink Way to Greenwich for the tunnel. It's easy enough to take the Peckham branch by Peckham Rye and up to Tower Bridge but it'll add to the journey time.

The main roads aren't too bad from South Norwood through Penge, Sydenham, Forest Hill, Honor Oak, and Brockley, but I prefer the back route, it's only marginally slower and far more chilled. I used to commute from South Norwood to Holborn for years and mostly took that route, or LCN 23(ish) over Crystal Palace and down through Dulwich.

Apologies if you know all this, I have a GPS route somewhere.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 13 November, 2014, 01:39:36 pm
Delayed on the way in to work today by a film crew closing the road to use my commute route as a backdrop for what appeared to be another episode of "George Gently". There were lots of 60's police cars and an  old ambulance drawn up outside what used to be called Old Shire Hall but is now emblazoned with a new name of "Tyne and Wear Bank" for the day. I thought they were going to let me past at one stage when one of them looked at my bike and said "with a saddlebag (Carradice Barley) like that he'll fit right in". His mate passed a comment that it wouldn't work - this was supposed to be 60's and the bike looked 1940s at the latest... Does this say something about my commute attire  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 13 November, 2014, 06:23:39 pm
Coming back from darkest saarrf Londonton on Tuesday I was held up at the lights in Denmark Hill to permit passage of a Bentley escorted by four or five motorcycle rozzers and a Range-Rover full of the bill.  Some sort of lesser Royal would be my guess.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 14 November, 2014, 11:36:27 am
I think we had Princess Michael round Waterloo way on Tuesday evening. I was quite gratified to hear our policy of equal access may not have met her expectations.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 14 November, 2014, 12:02:16 pm
Horrible ride home in the rainy dark this morn, enlivened by the close passage of a taxi, unlit, who firstly drove almost through me before swerving abruptly across two lanes to enter the petrol station.

Can we say "Addison..."?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Otto on 14 November, 2014, 12:11:10 pm
Very wet and not many other bikes on the road..... Phhhft fair weather cyclists... one observation.... for Gods Sake fit a mudguard... I don't want you crap flying up in my face... ta very much
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 14 November, 2014, 04:09:18 pm
Quote from: Mr Larrington on 13 November, 2014, 06:23:39 pm
Coming back from darkest saarrf Londonton on Tuesday I was held up at the lights in Denmark Hill to permit passage of a Bentley escorted by four or five motorcycle rozzers and a Range-Rover full of the bill.  Some sort of lesser Royal would be my guess.
Royalty?  Sarf of the rivah?! :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Diver300 on 14 November, 2014, 04:44:18 pm
I just managed to catch the early bus.

It broke down.

The interior lights weren't on as I got off, and left my phone on the bus.

The total bus journey was 1 hour and 10 minutes, which added to the bike ride was around 5 minutes less than I could have cycled the whole way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 14 November, 2014, 04:45:34 pm
Wet, Wet, Wet !!!

There's not a lot more can be said about today's commute in
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 17 November, 2014, 10:58:35 am
On my old bike today. Good grief, it weighs a ton. It feels like I am piloting a battleship. Steady, stately progress.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 17 November, 2014, 11:55:32 am
Mildly moist on the way in this morning but the newly tumbled gabba and nanoflexes were beading again after the debacle on friday!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 17 November, 2014, 12:12:49 pm
First day as a cycle commuter, of cause it rained, I forgot my ID badge and the key for my locker has fallen off the supplied keyring somewhere. Hopefully I will find the key at home otherwise it has gone missing during the last week and could be almost anywhere between home and my parents.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 20 November, 2014, 12:27:20 pm
I rediscovered that adrenalin is brown (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=se0m_HqpNPw) last night. The guy behind caught me as I waited at the next set of lights and informed me that it was mushed up cardboard and thought it was well held, definitely more luck than judgement.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 20 November, 2014, 12:42:25 pm
I had another cyclist running about 50 - 100m ahead for half the route in this morning. Nothing better for adding that extra 5% to the cadence and dragging me in for the quickest time this week.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 20 November, 2014, 08:15:27 pm
Made to work and back no punctures! Hurray.

Not looking forward to Monday as the wet seems to make it easier to puncture!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 21 November, 2014, 09:45:42 am
Full house for the first time since my secondment to Frimley (8 miles each way) finished in 2011.  :thumbsup:

New house and a change from 15 miles each way to 6.5 miles each way without the ultra convenient train.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 21 November, 2014, 01:03:33 pm
I was expecting a dry ride in this morning. Yesterdays forecast suggested a chance of a dry ride in, with rain starting around 9am when I would already be at my desk. This morning the BBC wales news and BBC. So I packed my pannier for dry ride in and wet ride home. Just before I leave the house I use my accurate weather forecasting device known as the window and decide I have got it wrong.  So I swap some clothes and set off for a wet commute.

The commute itself started very quietly. Only a few cars but of course that changed when I approached the schools. On damp mornings there appear to be more fat children so I had long queues to negotiate. Overall a pretty normal late November commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 23 November, 2014, 01:09:21 am
Wet indeed. My shift pattern of 7 to 7, day shift or night, now means that all travel is in the dark.

And wet. Added to that, they have moved our lockers to one terminal instead of a separate building landside, so I have nowhere to store whatever it is I'm not wearing, including safety boots. The bike pods will not accept bikes with front racks or saddle bags, so I am now stuck with a heavy rucksack each way every day.

Arsebollocks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teethgrinder on 23 November, 2014, 10:06:17 am
How about a rear rack Steph?
IIRC you can get panniers which convert into backpacks. Or you could bungee (there's probably better ways of doing it than with bungees) a backpack to a pannier rack.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Euan Uzami on 23 November, 2014, 11:11:07 am
Quote from: teethgrinder on 23 November, 2014, 10:06:17 am
How about a rear rack Steph?
IIRC you can get panniers which convert into backpacks. Or you could bungee (there's probably better ways of doing it than with bungees) a backpack to a pannier rack.

If you ask ortlieb's distributor nicely they will send you the mounting hardware for an ortlieb pannier free.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jsabine on 23 November, 2014, 11:16:49 pm
Ortlieb do a convertor kit (http://www.wiggle.co.uk/ortlieb-rucksack-adapter-for-panniers/) for their panniers, though I'm not sure how popular it is (http://www.bikeforums.net/touring/822208-anyone-using-ortlieb-pannier-backpack.html). There are various pannier/rucksack combos around too - I had a good look at the Altura version (http://www.rutlandcycling.com/282593/products/altura-morph-verso-backpack-and-convertible-pannier-bag.aspx) in an Evans a couple of weeks ago and it seemed well made with some quite nice features, though I thought it was both small and heavy for the money.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 24 November, 2014, 08:45:23 am
brrrr.

Cold but clean ride in, too many nupties who hadn't heeded the warnings to allow 5 minutes to clear their screens. On numpty passed me, couldn't pass the rider in front due to traffic island, thereby blocking me on the decent and then screwed up my timing through the roundabout at the bottom of the hill. All because I had the temerity to pass a parked car without letting him past me first.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 24 November, 2014, 12:48:56 pm
"Wimp!" I hear you say. Today I changed my clothing style.  The knickers were swapped to longs. The mitts became gloves.  The spring/autumn long sleeved top was replaced with my warmest long sleeved cycling shirt.

The ride in did not appear that cold in South Wales.   The grass was grey with frost and parked cars needed attention before driving.  The roads were clear including the dangerous spot for ice. It did make for a quieter than usual commute. I did not see any other cyclists although the other cycling commuter at work, from the other direction so out paths do not cross, is in today.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 24 November, 2014, 01:19:15 pm
I took the scooter in and it was the weirdness thing. The air was really cold till I got to Northolt and then it felt distinctly warmer (I had the visor up all the way in).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 24 November, 2014, 01:44:12 pm
After the warnings I had prepared the hybrid with studded tyres.

In the event, it was 8oC when left the house. No frost or ice anywhere, so I took the Horizon. On the way I spotted what looked like a Heron fishing in the River Ehen near Low Mill as I went over the bridge. I was running late so no time to stop and take photos, but added a little interest :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 25 November, 2014, 07:56:35 am
I had forgotten how much I *love* riding in freezing fog  :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 25 November, 2014, 09:39:35 am
Cold! My fingers were frozen. For some reason I was also cycling like an idiot this morning, which is unlike me. Hmm.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 25 November, 2014, 09:48:21 am
Very unpleasant riding in freezing fog with specs on  :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jakob W on 25 November, 2014, 01:46:31 pm
The Dutch bike needs a new rear tyre and tube, and I managed to snap a pedal spindle on the road bike yesterday (I don't know my own strength...), so this morning I had to take the bakfiets in instead. Thankfully I actually need to bring some heavy boxes of stuff home this week anyhow, so two birds and all that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 26 November, 2014, 08:35:47 am
Passed a wee Pret a Manger stall giving out free coffees so I stopped, it was nice to watch the rush hour for 5 mins rather than being in it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 26 November, 2014, 08:38:17 am
Grey, damp, drizzly, but a helluva nimprovement on yesterdays' frizzin fog.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 26 November, 2014, 08:44:20 am
last night was OK until I was manouvering left through a puddle as my right foot went through 3 O'Clock and I filled my shoe with water. Brrr, foot was very cold by the time I got home.

This morning was a remove glasses as they were collecting the fine mist. Then I witnessed one near miss decend into an argument  (jogger crossing side as white van drove up to the give ways and the jogger took avoiding action) WVM got out of vehicle for a fothright exchange of views and the aftermath of a collision, front left corner of transit into the drivers door of a mini, don't know if the mini was U-turning or turning into a side turning as the transit tried to pass or if something else happened entirely.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 26 November, 2014, 09:44:06 am
3 visitations, 1 front, 2 rear. Glass from a shunt by the look of it, bits of headlight and indicator.  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Reg.T on 26 November, 2014, 09:55:19 am
Nice run in this morning - first ride with a new shorter stem on the fixed.

Long version: There is one stretch through Saltford that's free-flowing (now that the Kelston road has reopened, and traffic levels are back to normal) but where overtaking isn't that easy. This morning there was a van parked near the start, then there's a downhill with a pinch-point at the bottom, then a couple of slight bends and turnings either side, then another slight pinch point before the road opens out: just over half a mile in total. I had a WVM behind as a approached the van, and he let me take primary, then hung back down the hill and beyond, and timed a gentle acceleration well, to pass me just after I pulled back left as the road widened again. A quick wave of thanks from me, and a single flash of his hazards in return.  8)

Short version: considerate WVM, who appreciated my acknowledgement.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 26 November, 2014, 10:52:46 am
Yesterday,

Riding in solo on the tandem. Dear chap on bike shaped object, would you just pull in front of a fast moving car? Well please don't do it to me, cos while I managed to avoid you coming while I was coming down the hill at 40kmh having to deal with the rear end of the really long bike sliding out on the ice was not fun maybe you should look where you are going instead of shouting at me, who was cycling downhill on the road you joined without looking. Also get your brakes fixed, dragging your feet on the floor to stop is going to get you killed, you may be an arse but I would rather you not a dead arse.

Today,

Dear fellow employee, it's not funny to overtake me when I'm overtaking a parked car just before a speed narrowing in the road on the estate, You very nearly forced me into the back of the parked car, and then refusing to acknowledge me when we walked into reception at the same time is just rude. Just remember I know where you work and where you park your car!

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 27 November, 2014, 10:13:09 am
I've come to recognise that when I come off the banks of the river Lea, and I cannot hear the traffic on Lea Bridge Road, it is because the police have closed the road due to an accident.
Over the bridge on the river, sure enough, all of the police were there. As were the ambulances.
Bent car. Bent lorry. Bent bicycle. :(
I hope all those involved are ok.

Update:
http://www.guardian-series.co.uk/news/11629986.Cyclist_airlifted_to_hospital_following_second__serious__crash_this_week/
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 27 November, 2014, 03:48:42 pm
Horrible yesterday down the a48. Double the traffic as normal and cars overtaking with about an inch to spare! Plus some clowns deciding to fire the horn as they pass me. Tossers  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 27 November, 2014, 06:27:20 pm
World turned upside down!

The car which waited patiently behind me through the throughabout was a BMW!

And the only car in the long queue whose driver slowed and flashed his lights to let me turn into the side road was... a BMW!

Bonkers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 27 November, 2014, 09:36:38 pm
Most cars are BMWs now?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 27 November, 2014, 09:42:21 pm
Quote from: Deano on 27 November, 2014, 06:27:20 pm
World turned upside down!

The car which waited patiently behind me through the throughabout was a BMW!

And the only car in the long queue whose driver slowed and flashed his lights to let me turn into the side road was... a BMW!

Bonkers.

To redress the balance:

It was the t****r in a beamer who honked at me and gesticulated at me to use the shared use pavement not the road. I was doing evens! There's a drive every 8m and a side turning every 100m plus joggers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 28 November, 2014, 12:23:58 pm
There are 20mph signs popping up all round the City.  :D


At least I *think* there are - no-one else seems to be able to see them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 28 November, 2014, 12:25:37 pm
Which city ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 28 November, 2014, 02:24:49 pm
As in the City with a capital C:

http://www.oxforddictionaries.com/definition/english/city
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 28 November, 2014, 03:49:13 pm
Aha !  Very cool. Thank you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 01 December, 2014, 12:30:19 pm
Still on my old bike. There's a certain serenity about piloting a heavy old lump.

One thing though, the drive train is much much quieter than the new bike.

Part of the re-assembly of the new bike will be an entire new drive train (something it's never had in all its miles). Be interesting to see if it makes it as noiseless.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 01 December, 2014, 12:44:25 pm
This morning I oiled my chain.  Ten minutes later I am thinking how smoothly the bike is riding.  With a bit more thought I realised it was not about the bike or my fitness but my clothing.  Last week I was using a Lusso Aqua Repel bib tights.  This morning I was using fifteen year old Ultima Super Roubaix tights. I love Super Roubaix, it is one of the best materials to make not too cold Winter leggings from.  Its not all good though, these tights are not bib tights and had a hard life in its first few years. They now have tendency to slip down so despite enjoying the loose, stretchy, freedom to pedal I needed to stop every now and then to pull them back up.   Tomorrow I think I will have my cake and eat it. I will find my expensive Santini Super Roubaix bib tights.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 02 December, 2014, 10:50:03 am
Cold, wet and miserable out there this morning. Poor cagers stuck in the inevitable increased congestion O:-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jakob W on 02 December, 2014, 08:08:43 pm
First test in anger of the new Carradice rain cape. Alas at 6'5" even the super size doesn't fully protect my knees when I'm on the Dutch Bike due to the upright position; I may have to look into getting the spats. Less boil-in-the bag than rain jackets, though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 02 December, 2014, 08:48:01 pm
Bugger, my Marathon Winters haven't turned up yet. Looks like it could be a little slippy early tomorrow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 03 December, 2014, 08:36:27 am
Brrrr, first day winter jacket deployed, not bad, ISTR it was much earlier last year. The only slippy bits around had come out of a kettle  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 03 December, 2014, 09:41:27 am
After getting very cold on the way home yesterday I overcompensated this morning.

I thought it would be a really cold one, as everything was freezing up when I went to bed, but by the time I set off this morning it had just about all melted. A tiny bit of frost in the hedges, and lots of noise from the studded tyres.

Just the right time of day to see Muncaster Fell silhouetted against the golden glow of the rising sun too which was nice :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 03 December, 2014, 10:27:24 am
down south there was a frost on the cars this morning but the roads were damp rather than slippery. I was not on my thickest gloves yet and still using the thin cap under the helmet rather than a wooly hat.

Otherwise an incident free ride in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 03 December, 2014, 10:32:17 am
Brighton, old horse, was frost-free, for them's that are interested.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 03 December, 2014, 01:20:42 pm
Ice on the way up and on the top of Otley Chevin this morning. However, wearing two pairs of socks, thermal longs and tights, baselayer, jersey, armwarmers, gillet, waterproof and two buffs was complete overkill. I was boiled in the bag.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 04 December, 2014, 03:23:57 pm
Finally cycled home for the first time in several weeks yesterday (got the train in) owing to a literally side-splittingly and ball-achingly unfunny period of illness. Expected to it to hurt more than it did. London traffic takes a bit of re-adjustment, surprising how quick you become unused to it.

A did have to shed a lot of clothes in Streatham, the climb up Brixton Hill reminded me that it wasn't as cold as I'd imagined it would be. I apologise to the people of Streatham High Street for the impromptu strip-tease.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 04 December, 2014, 07:29:09 pm
Frost free.  Scratched top tube, scuffed saddle.  Don't ask how. Not an off.  Absolutely fucking fuming about it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 04 December, 2014, 08:27:46 pm
Just realised that for logistical reasons I need to take the train tomorrow.  This will be some sort of record as it will mean that I haven't used the bike to commute for a full week.  I honestly don't remember when that last happened.  (Other than periods of holibobs, obv)
It also means that other than a pub trip on Monday, I've not ridden at all since last Wednesday.  That's 9 days and counting.  That could also be some sort of record.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 04 December, 2014, 08:38:39 pm
Quote from: Basil on 04 December, 2014, 08:27:46 pm
It also means that other than a pub trip on Monday, I've not ridden at all since last Wednesday.  That's 9 days and counting.  That could also be some sort of record.

You're missing out: They've done a stunning job decorating the Bristol Road for Christmas this year.  Lots of pretty sparkly stuff glistening at corners...   :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 05 December, 2014, 01:36:11 pm
That reminds me: as I rode to the ACB meeting last night, all the shops on the Gloucester Rd above Pigstye Hill were open although it was almost 8pm, and they had strung lights and decorations all along the pavement and shop fronts. Very pretty it was, as well as a complete surprise to me, and I didn't mind that the traffic was almost rush-hour style.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 05 December, 2014, 08:22:49 pm
You know that moment when you think you are about to die- when your life flashes before your eyes and you think FUCK ME! ?

Well, I had it tonight. Descending Quarry Wood Road, prolly doing about 30mph having negotiated and accelerated through the mid descent right hairpin. Just before the braking zone for the left hander at the bottom of the hill, as I rode over the slightly rough road surface, the vibration extinguished my front light- suddenly I'm hooning downhill in pitch black :o

By the time I had got to a slightly lighter patch of road and bled the speed off in a straight line (not turning in the dark as that bit of road is often strewn with grit and other debris) I was just about to run off the road into the bushes on the ouside of the bend apex.

As I said earlier f***me.......
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 05 December, 2014, 09:52:56 pm
Eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeek !!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 05 December, 2014, 09:56:54 pm
A good illustration of the "two is one and one is none" principle, which I inconsistently remember to apply to bicycle lighting.

That said, I've done descents like that with an abundance of excellent lights, only to be met by a patch of dense fog halfway down.  It's hard to brake, steer, clench, swear and switch off a head torch at the same time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 05 December, 2014, 09:57:50 pm
Part of my body just emitted an involuntary squeak.
One I am sure your recent experience familiarises you with.....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 08 December, 2014, 07:56:01 am
(http://jakal.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/xanthus/GeneralBike/HorsesQueensgate20141208.jpg)

Today I actually remembered to grab a shot of these horses from the Fly6 before it went off of the end of the memory card.  I probably see them at least once a week, presumably when they go out early to miss the busier commuter filled roads.  Given the uniformity of look (albeit not an obvious uniform) I presume that they're members of the Household Cavalry from Hyde Park Barracks.  Typically there's anything from two to twenty riders, sometimes with horses pulling a carriage.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 08 December, 2014, 11:01:56 am
That'll be these folk (From a year or so back)

(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/__5EyI8Ck-Lw/S9n758VrURI/AAAAAAAAR_E/4EdpiXHj-RA/s640/IMG_1108.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 08 December, 2014, 11:05:02 am
Quote from: Jurek on 05 December, 2014, 09:57:50 pm
Part of my body just emitted an involuntary squeak.
One I am sure your recent experience familiarises you with.....

What have you and fuzzy been up to?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 08 December, 2014, 02:12:53 pm
Re-assembled the new bike at the weekend. Very happy to report that the new drivetrain is noiseless. I'd forgotten what a delight it is to ride such a svelte machine. And what a gorgeous day today. Beats sitting in traffic x 10.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 09 December, 2014, 09:18:46 am
Nice cycle in after nearly three weeks off the bike through illness. What a nice trip in! It was cold but I managed to dress perfectly and the weather led to the cycle traffic being much lighter along CS7. Got in in less than 40 minutes which isn't bad considering my time off the bike!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 09 December, 2014, 09:24:08 am
It was a tad fresh this morning so broke the skull cap out of hibernation.

Incident free ride in and finished with a glorious sunrise over the school.

Crappy phone pics to follow at some stage on The Other Thread
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moultonaught on 09 December, 2014, 09:37:09 am
pleasant ride to the stn, and from the other stn to the office.

Sat at traffic lights and a brompton rider pulled up alongside and told me that I had a funny looking design of bike!  ;D (the e-stay frame!) I refrained from replying "look who's talking!"

The only drawback with  using the 'double decker' bike racks at the London station is that they're first come first served, and I keep on forgetting where I've parked the bike each evening...  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 09 December, 2014, 10:41:20 am
Quote from: hatler on 08 December, 2014, 02:12:53 pm
Re-assembled the new bike at the weekend. Very happy to report that the new drivetrain is noiseless. I'd forgotten what a delight it is to ride such a svelte machine. And what a gorgeous day today. Beats sitting in traffic x 10.

Wish mine was. Rode in using the clanky freewheel on the singlespeed. Even though the freewheel is noisy it still works ok so it'll do until the better replacement turns up. It was a bit breezy. Should make the return rather easier than the ride in.

What a difference an extra tooth made to the hill from Broken Arm Bridge* though! I've not got up that hill singlespeed since my crash had to walk it when I had my first go for a while last week. Today I didn't even get out of the saddle until the short steep section right at the top. :)



*It's actually Low Mill Bridge officially
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: marcusjb on 09 December, 2014, 04:27:25 pm
Anyone who uses Kings Road - it will be very bad/closed this evening. 

Awful collision at Gunter Grove area - I can't tell you whether it was a pedestrian/cyclist/motorcyclist under the truck but I passed as the air ambulance was coming in (about 2:30)

I truly hope that it isn't as serious as it looked and I keep my fingers crossed for positive news.

Edited to add that it is, very sadly, a fatality involving a female pedestrian.  My condolences go out to her family and friends.

http://www.standard.co.uk/news/london/woman-pedestrian-dies-after-being-hit-by-lorry-in-chelsea-9913321.html
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 10 December, 2014, 06:34:45 pm
A touch breezy. Chapeau to those further north heading east. west. Doh  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 10 December, 2014, 06:39:52 pm
Well that was interesting. Ever got the feeling your bike has a mind of it's own?

Maybe take a heavier bike tomorrow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 10 December, 2014, 08:07:26 pm
Small wheels are more useful than heaviness in that situation, I think.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 11 December, 2014, 10:03:04 am
Unscheduled commuter challenge this morning, I caught up with a colleague (on a bike) just as I stopped to get my newspaper. Our routes are the same as I pass Wokingham Station and he gets the train two stops to the office.

Suffice to say the train was delayed by 5 minutes and I was in the shower when he arrived  :thumbsup:

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 11 December, 2014, 11:03:30 am
Quote from: Si S on 10 December, 2014, 06:34:45 pm
A touch breezy. Chapeau to those further north heading east. west. Doh  :facepalm:
Thank you. It was a bit of a struggle this morning. (average speed 11.4 mph, down from the usual 16ish!)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 11 December, 2014, 12:36:21 pm
Yes, a tough one this morning. Sixteen miles of headwind to make sure I was late for work and delayed the morning meeting by five minutes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 12 December, 2014, 07:14:09 am
Quote from: Kim on 10 December, 2014, 08:07:26 pm
Small wheels are more useful than heaviness in that situation, I think.

Three of them are even better.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 12 December, 2014, 01:47:26 pm
No wind this morning, but frozen hail on the roads from home, and then a thin layer of lying slush/snow in one little village (but nowhere else ???). I notice that the last few days' weather has finally reduced the number of bikes in the shed. Today Mines one of only three in the shed (and I think one of those is a permanent resident in there). The other commuters have hung in far longer this year than previous years though :thumbsup:

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 12 December, 2014, 06:04:32 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 12 December, 2014, 01:47:26 pm
I notice that the last few days' weather has finally reduced the number of bikes in the shed. Today Mines one of only three in the shed (and I think one of those is a permanaent reident in there). The other commuters have hung in far longer this year than previous years though :thumbsup:
In my case (not that we work at the same place as far as I know!) it's been partially the weather, but also the growing pre-Christmas need to get things done, either at home or in town, at lunchtime. I hope to return to a more normal commuting pattern after the festivities.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 15 December, 2014, 11:51:42 am
Left a little later today and had a nice breeze in. Spotted an Audax UK sticker on someone's mudguards too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 15 December, 2014, 11:56:33 am
Quote from: SteveC on 12 December, 2014, 06:04:32 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 12 December, 2014, 01:47:26 pm
I notice that the last few days' weather has finally reduced the number of bikes in the shed. Today Mines one of only three in the shed (and I think one of those is a permanaent reident in there). The other commuters have hung in far longer this year than previous years though :thumbsup:
In my case (not that we work at the same place as far as I know!) it's been partially the weather, but also the growing pre-Christmas need to get things done, either at home or in town, at lunchtime. I hope to return to a more normal commuting pattern after the festivities.

Think it was weather - they're back this morning! :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 15 December, 2014, 08:43:36 pm
This evening after work I walked down stairs then I swapped my work clothes for the well known difficult to see yellow jumper.  Seeing this,  I partially cover this with a blue gilet the contrast is bound to make me visible to maintain my concealment I don a reflective john brown belt.  I set off powering up the B &M Luxos to absorb any ambient illumination.  Finally the 3M wands of darkness on my spokes ensure my complete invisibility. Then I am hit by a car.

You can worry I wasn't physically hurt. So you do not get a chance to fill the following twenty posts with GWS posts or gleefully await my impending death.

More seriously I planned to stop riding on Thursday evening but it seams the Christmas party season has already started and the wobbly drivers are abroad. So tonight must be my last night time commute and the train must carry me from near work to near home.  There were actually two incidents tonight.  The one that hit me was just an engine roar and a car immediately pulling out.  I bumped my bum against the door and my arm caught the wing mirror knocking the mirror out.  The lady driver was more concerned than I was and asked if I was in shock. All in all I expect she is more upset than I am.  The other incident five minutes earlier when I was not hit was far more dangerous. A car assumed I was not turning in to the next road of a three road roundabout and accelerated into the space I was about to occupy.  Fortunately I was able to swing back into the roundabout and the violent contact was avoided. Dammit I live!
             
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 16 December, 2014, 10:03:38 am
For the first time in a long time last night I didn't do my usual CS7 commute, instead heading out on a longer on that took me through a part of Richmond Park. The ride was so much nicer than the usual commute! It inspired me to head to the park again this morning, knock out a lap and then make my way to work. All very enjoyable!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 16 December, 2014, 10:16:56 am
Absolutely nothing remarkable happened, lovely sunny morning and a clear run with no shouting or nonsense.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 16 December, 2014, 10:46:59 am
^ Ditto.

Every day for me too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 16 December, 2014, 12:19:45 pm
Lucky you, I had an antisocial overtake, a threat to knock me out and half a dozen phone users within a dozen cars in traffic this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 16 December, 2014, 12:46:00 pm
That's rotten luck Matthers. I think it is increasingly concerning, the attitudes (some) car drivers have, believing they're cocooned from everything inside their metal box, that leads to some dehumanising attitude. Touching their car is felt as some personal physical assault against them.

What am I doing!! Rant over, rant over. Now look what you've done Matthew!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 16 December, 2014, 12:53:05 pm
This morning I got up a little earlier and headed to the station to buy a weekly train ticket between Radyr and Bridgend. As I was passing the golf course I saw a paper boy pushing his bike.  I thought it is a steep hill with a full bag of papers he just climbed but he should of remounted by now. I zip down the hill and turn right and gather speed on the next section and make a left turn.  The back wheel moves outward and I think, slippy. There is another paper boy pushing his bike I arrive at the main road which I wish to cross. I look left car coming from left.  I look right car approaching from the right.  I decide enough room before they arrive if I accelerate normally. I press on the pedals and the back wheels spins before it grips. On the other side I notice the ground is sparkling. I walk down the last hill to the station.

Apart from this morning I intend only to take the train in the evenings 5 x £5.50 = £27.50.  Or more accurately with the two return commutes today and Monday for the office Christmas party. 3 x £5.50 + 2 x £7.70 = £31.90.  I buy a weekly £26.30.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 16 December, 2014, 02:12:54 pm
Quote from: Riggers on 16 December, 2014, 12:46:00 pm
That's rotten luck Matthers. I think it is increasingly concerning, the attitudes (some) car drivers have, believing they're cocooned from everything inside their metal box, that leads to some dehumanising attitude. Touching their car is felt as some personal physical assault against them.

What am I doing!! Rant over, rant over. Now look what you've done Matthew!!!

I didn't touch the vehicle of the car that was an antisocial overtake (on approach to a t junction, in the face of oncoming traffic, lots of revs and too close), I did wave an arm at it. The driver of the white van immediately behind when we stopped at the T junction threatened to knock me out if I touched his van.  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 18 December, 2014, 11:21:35 am
I'd got 2 miles up the road this morning before I realised I'd forgot my lid- a very nervous ride*











*due to the 8 glass bottles of cider in my rucksack  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 18 December, 2014, 12:11:15 pm
Nice ride in today, first day with my new boots (North Wave Arctic). Not really cold or wet enough to properly test them. In fact my feet were possibly too hot, also I had to change from full finger gloves to mitts half way in to provide somewhere for the heat to escape.

Added impact was a bl**dy headwind so had to work a bit harder than normal.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 18 December, 2014, 12:34:01 pm
I checked the weather a several of times before riding home yesterday evening, including 15 minutes before I left. Nowhere on the Marlow or Maidenhead weather did it mention precipitation. I guess the piss wet through feeling was a figment of my imagination ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonJo on 18 December, 2014, 02:29:20 pm
Quote from: Si S on 18 December, 2014, 11:21:35 am
I'd got 2 miles up the road this morning before I realised I'd forgot my lid- a very nervous ride*
*due to the 8 glass bottles of cider in my rucksack  :demon:

I don't get it. Why did forgetting your lid make you nervous about 8 bottles of cider in your rucksack?

Hope you enjoyed them BTW  ;)











*due to the 8 glass bottles of cider in my rucksack  :demon:
[/quote]
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 18 December, 2014, 02:39:47 pm
Don't worry JonJo, just trying to be a smart**se, failed I see.

The thought of landing on all that glass was worrying. The cider was for my team, a bit of personal thanks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonJo on 18 December, 2014, 07:28:14 pm
Quote from: Si S on 18 December, 2014, 02:39:47 pm
Don't worry JonJo, just trying to be a smart**se, failed I see.

The thought of landing on all that glass was worrying. The cider was for my team, a bit of personal thanks.

Ah, I see. I hope they enjoyed them then.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 18 December, 2014, 07:42:39 pm
Tomorrow is the last Friday before crimble.  Time for my annual post.  Be careful tomorrow night on the way home, chums.  Assume that that driver has had a few drinks.  Be pragmatic and get home safely.

Hugs
Basil.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 18 December, 2014, 07:48:19 pm
Quote from: Basil on 18 December, 2014, 07:42:39 pm
Tomorrow is the last Friday before crimble.  Time for my annual post.  Be careful tomorrow night on the way home, chums.  Assume that that driver has had a few drinks.  Be pragmatic and get home safely.

Drinking or not, it's probably safe to assume they're on the phone if the ones I encountered this afternoon were anything to go by.   >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 18 December, 2014, 08:01:54 pm
That's the last tandem commute of 2014 done. 

Which means that, apart from when the tandem was in for a service (which meant once home from afterschool club and once to breakfast club the next day without it) we have tandem-ed every single school run to and from the Den with the SmallestCub this (15 week long) term.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Bunker22 on 18 December, 2014, 10:22:36 pm
I did a commute of sorts today. I had a meeting up in the Big Smoke, so I got a Boris Bike from Waterloo to the Novotel in Vauxhall. After the meeting I felt peckish so got another across Vauxhall bridge, past the Houses of Parliament, down Whitehall and to Herman the German in Embankment for a delicious hotdog. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 18 December, 2014, 10:51:03 pm
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 18 December, 2014, 08:01:54 pm
That's the last tandem commute of 2014 done. 

Which means that, apart from when the tandem was in for a service (which meant once home from afterschool club and once to breakfast club the next day without it) we have tandem-ed every single school run to and from the Den with the SmallestCub this (15 week long) term.
Good stuff!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 19 December, 2014, 01:18:08 pm
This morning was my last proper commute.  I stopped evening commutes last Monday after seeing bad driving then being hit by a car. My company is stopping early so Monday is my last day of the year.  I will not be riding in because it is my turn to attend a Christmas party so while I am happy to have a tipsy walk to the station I feel a wobbly bike ride could be too much.


 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 19 December, 2014, 02:24:53 pm
.... I will be struggling against the wind and with an extra load. I has been forced to take a bottle of champers and 10 cans of Fosters as a thank you for looking after then traffic control at drop off and pick up time. Some parents are lovely :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 19 December, 2014, 02:37:25 pm
I had a perfectly easy ride in and home today, plenty of patient driving and even the school boys on their bikes were polite.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 19 December, 2014, 05:31:40 pm
I finally rustled up enthusiasm for a bike commute today. Last day at the office for a bit. Was slow, particularly into the wind (and not at all because I've not ridden for weeks, oh no), but pleasant.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 19 December, 2014, 05:54:17 pm
Wasn't too bad tonight.  Two very close passes, one at high speed on the dual carriageway bit of the Brizzle Road.  The sort that really annoy me, where there was absolutely no reason to do that as there was acres of room.  Nothing says struggling home pissed more than that.   >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 19 December, 2014, 06:07:07 pm
Cycled past three old bill cars parked in West Pottergate then read there was a fire there and, horribly, a fatality. 

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gattopardo on 20 December, 2014, 01:09:53 am
Quote from: matthew on 16 December, 2014, 02:12:54 pm
Quote from: Riggers on 16 December, 2014, 12:46:00 pm
That's rotten luck Matthers. I think it is increasingly concerning, the attitudes (some) car drivers have, believing they're cocooned from everything inside their metal box, that leads to some dehumanising attitude. Touching their car is felt as some personal physical assault against them.

What am I doing!! Rant over, rant over. Now look what you've done Matthew!!!

I didn't touch the vehicle of the car that was an antisocial overtake (on approach to a t junction, in the face of oncoming traffic, lots of revs and too close), I did wave an arm at it. The driver of the white van immediately behind when we stopped at the T junction threatened to knock me out if I touched his van.  :o

Had that on tower bridge the other day, found the driver less that willing to go through with the threat as there are too many cameras.  He was an idiot and deserves never to drive again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gattopardo on 20 December, 2014, 01:13:10 am
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 18 December, 2014, 08:01:54 pm
That's the last tandem commute of 2014 done. 

Which means that, apart from when the tandem was in for a service (which meant once home from afterschool club and once to breakfast club the next day without it) we have tandem-ed every single school run to and from the Den with the SmallestCub this (15 week long) term.

Yay awesome.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gattopardo on 20 December, 2014, 01:27:59 am
Not on the commute but going home tonight, managed to have a near miss with a fuck off big truck trailer.  More to the point, a real brown trouser moment, or the oh fuck this is going to hurt.  The near miss was along commercial street towards mansell street, which was closed due to building works so there was alot of traffic built up.  The trailer had the truck tyres that were at my height, and the openside kind.  Not sure of much else as the wheels sort of struck my mind.  There were a number of parked cars on both sides, if you know the area it was in the region of the IBIS, where the road narrows.  The lorry crossed enough over the white line and managed to get lightly clipped/brush, i think and i fell off the bike, towards the nearside at a very slow speed.  Managed not to get run over by the black cab behind me and the driver was nice that got out to see if I was alright.  The cabby said that he had to swerve too as he thought he would be clipped by the lorry trailer.

Was a really oh fuck moment, not one of my own making.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 20 December, 2014, 08:17:31 am
Yikes! That sounds terrifying. Glad you're physically unscathed and hope it hasn't shaken you up too much.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Gattopardo on 20 December, 2014, 11:24:33 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 20 December, 2014, 08:17:31 am
Yikes! That sounds terrifying. Glad you're physically unscathed and hope it hasn't shaken you up too much.

Thank you, am starting to thinkI'm getting to old for this.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 22 December, 2014, 09:00:11 am
Zooooooooooooom along the seafront. The way home might be a tad slower unless the wind eases.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 22 December, 2014, 09:26:54 am
fought the head wind in, hoping for an easier journey home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 22 December, 2014, 08:35:22 pm
Quote from: Ashaman42 on 22 December, 2014, 09:00:11 am
Zooooooooooooom along the seafront. The way home might be a tad slower unless the wind eases.

Ah man that was a slog home. Still lacking a car means I cycled when otherwise I wouldn't have :thumbsup: Maybe I shouldn't be too quick to replace it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 23 December, 2014, 08:56:30 am
Lurgy spoils tailwind  :(   :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 23 December, 2014, 09:01:45 am
That was my last commute in this year.  Very quiet and strangely quieter than yesterday.  Does that mean that a lot of people only came in for one day this week?
Tonight will not only be my last ride home, it will most likely be my last bike ride of any description this year.

My Cycle logs shows me that not only is this the lowest December mileage in three years, it will be my lowest total for any month since 2011.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 23 December, 2014, 09:43:29 am
If Carlsberg did London commutes...  nice strong tailwind, all the lights in Camberley and Battersea were green, was by far the fastest commute I've done into central London despite a set of typical dead December legs and recovering from the lurgy.  Suspect that the sponsor for the return trip will be the Marquis de Sade but just now will enjoy the sensation of having been comfortably blown all the way into the office.

My November and December mileage has been dire but that was because I took time off to do a silly running race. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 23 December, 2014, 09:15:06 pm
Wimped out on the way home. Was barely doing double figures speedwise into the wind along the seafront and then as I hit the junction that leads up to the train station I had a sustained gust that took me to all of 5mph.

The thought of another 11 miles of that wearied me so I pootled up to the station and decided the 15 minute wait for a train was worth it.

Eh, at least I rode to work and five of the miles home. I'd have taken the car this morning given the choice and the train ticket was still cheaper than petrol would have been.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 24 December, 2014, 07:29:26 am
Well, escaped the ministrations of the Marquis de Sade, who was presumably having fun with the parking arrangements at M&S Camberley.  However, was probably my most audacious commute yet, 51 miles of block headwind.  The worst bit was the first five miles, constant red traffic lights meant that every time I got some sort of pace going I had to stop and then crank back into the wind.  There was a lot of traffic on the A30 all heading for last minute Christmas shopping, but that was preferable to the long shelter-less straight by Blackbushe Airport.  After the one blissful no-pedalling moment descending Star Hill I realised there was something wrong with my legs.  Simply not fit enough.  But by now the end was in sight.

Walked into Dominos Pizza Chineham in a somewhat dazed fashion a little over 4 hours after escaping the office.  "You haven't been here for a while", the shift manager observed.  I guess it has been a couple of months since my last cycle commute into London
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 29 December, 2014, 11:24:22 pm
Quote from: Basil on 23 December, 2014, 09:01:45 am
That was my last commute in this year.  Very quiet and strangely quieter than yesterday.  Does that mean that a lot of people only came in for one day this week?
Tonight will not only be my last ride home, it will most likely be my last bike ride of any description this year.

My Cycle logs shows me that not only is this the lowest December mileage in three years, it will be my lowest total for any month since 2011.

Basil: Did your mum not meet you with several hundred weight of Xmas treats to overload your bike this year ?
That post still makes me laugh to think on it.

Today was very frosty on the paths but not icy as such. Even so, had to be really careful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 30 December, 2014, 09:04:41 am
 ;D
No we've been much better organised since then.  The transport of Christmas related stuffs being in a little but often style.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 30 December, 2014, 09:48:29 am
Frost in the hedges, on the verge and on some of the roads, but no slower into work.

Marathon winters were overkill but gave good grip and going from 32-622 to 37-622 geared the fixed wheel up slightly to compensate for the added drag.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 30 December, 2014, 11:13:55 am
Found the traction limit for Pasela and blacktop several times this morning. Alternately sliding both wheels while trying to pull up at a T-junction with cross traffic is no fun.

Only hit the deck once. Hit my head but luckily my magic wooly hat saved my life and didn't even crack like those EPS ones do.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nelson Longflap on 30 December, 2014, 12:03:40 pm
Quote from: LittleWheelsandBig on 30 December, 2014, 11:13:55 am
Only hit the deck once. Hit my head but luckily my magic wooly hat saved my life and didn't even crack like those EPS ones do.
I have a woolly hat impregnated with the same magic.  :thumbsup:  Some years ago I was hit from behind by a driver on drugs and rolled over and over for long enough to think "I'm glad this hat is saving my head from roadrash". The eccentric shape of the plastic variety would have given my neck a workout it didn't need (like a cam follower) and could have made the incident even worse.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 30 December, 2014, 12:43:21 pm
I didn't wear a wooly hat and didn't get hit by anything. Think on.

Thick frost though, the roads are frosted, there must have been a dew just before freezing point.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 02 January, 2015, 12:37:25 pm
I resumed commuting today.  The roads were very quiet it seems a lot of people are taking the extra day into the weekend. I hardly saw any cars in the first half hour but I did see a bicycle coming the other way. I expect Monday will be a bit of a shock as most people and schools return to work.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 05 January, 2015, 09:39:38 am
Fortunately I was watching the driver of the construction van that was at a give way on my left and turning left out. His head at no point looked right (the road only comes from the station car park so why would there be a vehicle leaving the car park at 8am?) therefore I was in the oncoming right filter lane when he continued to pull out into my path.

He later tried to claim that he had looked until I said I had been watching his head, so he then told me to use the cycle path they have constructed...

It runs from the just after the junction for 150m on the pavement to the end of the road and then disappears!

Otherwise a quick and eventless ride in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 05 January, 2015, 10:03:52 am
That came as a bit of shock to the system
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 05 January, 2015, 11:43:59 am
I rode in yer big London, on Tuesday 30th from Queens Park darrrn along Regents Park Zoo to St Pauls and across Tower Bridge. Then proceeded to cross London, Southwark, Blackfriars, Waterloo and Westminster bridges, taking in many of iconic London sights, like yer 'ouses of Parli-a-ment amongst others. Had a sandwich from Pret in Trafalgar Square, then popped in to Heale's further up, and back home to Sister-in-Law's.

Jolly good it was too. Roads were quiet-ish (some completely empty!!!), lots of tourists, and by far the best way to see London I thought. Still funny (as elsewhere) to have the odd car or two, desperate to get past, only like ourselves, to be held up at the innumerable traffic lights around town. In fact, one is quicker on a bike. Helps when you have someone with you who "Knows is Larrrndan".

I realise it's a completely different kettle of fish, and incomparable, with my experience and those who commute; but what can I say, mine was very pleasurable.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 05 January, 2015, 08:50:18 pm
Very quiet today. I suspect the large secondary school nearby must have had an inset day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 06 January, 2015, 09:11:47 am
Quiet yesterday and today with perfectly nice trips in and back. I am out of shape and have developed a green, snot based lurgy but the legs felt good and I managed not to dawdle either day! Here's to 2015!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 06 January, 2015, 09:41:51 am
Traffic levels back to normal, so it was back to riding past the queues.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 06 January, 2015, 10:50:39 am
I met a co-shirker on the way in today so I decided to follow him to work to see what his route is like. After carrying my bike up some steps, traversing sections of wet cobbles, crossing a busy dual carriageway with no dropped kerbs, cycling on pavements and being sprayed by lorries on a contraflow cycle path I arrived at work rather later than if I'd taken my usual route.

I won't be taking that route again  :hand:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 06 January, 2015, 10:54:05 am
Oh my god where have my legs gone!!!!!!

First day back on the single speed commute of 2015 and I'm mostly slow and pap, I even had to walk up brays road, which isn't that steep!!

Admittedly I'm on reduced calorie intake as I attempt to loose weight for the wedding and I'd already run 5k and been to the dentist but even so. Words are to be had with my legs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 06 January, 2015, 07:55:06 pm
The SmallestCub denied from behind me my cry of "Blimey.... New Year, new legs!" and claims it was all the energy from the Morrisons Mighty Malties he'd had for breakfast.  Either way I was glad of the actually noticeable power coming from the stoker on the first tandem commute of 2015.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 06 January, 2015, 11:43:23 pm
1st puncture of 2015. 1st in a very long time tbh, and it was really slow, and got to about 2k to go before it was on the rim.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 07 January, 2015, 12:09:35 am
Way home today I saw one of those project-a-green-bike-on-the-road jobbies. It had been fixed to the rear, and so a green biike image wobbled along behind. I really can't see that as an aid to visibility at all, just a distraction, you don't automatically associate the image with the bike, youjust feel a bit like a cat for a moment or two . All a bit "meh" really, no surprise.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 07 January, 2015, 09:10:59 am
Yesterday, as we left the office a colleague commented it was one of those days that she was glad she had cycled...  another colleague reports 35 minutes in traffic just to get off the business park!

Anyway it was my fastest round trip yet for the commute 28 minutes in, including stopping for the paper and 27 minutes home including stopping to let the ambulance past and being held at a number of junctions/lights.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 07 January, 2015, 11:14:10 am
Coooollld.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 07 January, 2015, 12:31:43 pm
Despite riding my Audax bike, which is a beautifully smooth ride, but not terribly quick off the mark at lights, I was amused to see that I was only a minute slower than usual on Strava.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 07 January, 2015, 12:38:36 pm
Got rear-ended by another cyclist yesterday morning at the junction turning right from High Holborn westbound onto Southampton Row northbound.

I'd been approaching the junction at speed, hoping to get through before the lights changed. They went amber before I crossed the line and I initially thought maybe I'll still be able to get through in time, but then I thought better of it and slammed the brakes on...

I don't know how close the other cyclist was behind me but I had stopped properly before he ran into me, so he can't have been that close and probably just wasn't looking where he was going and/or was going too fast. He hit me quite hard but fortunately, he came out of it worse - he was hopping about gingerly at the side of the road for a bit as if he'd bashed a shin against a pedal or something like that. I was torn between asking if he was OK and calling him a fecking idiot so in the end did neither and left him to his hopping.

A fellow cyclist who pulled up alongside me at the junction moments later had an amused/bemused look on his face and gave a wry shrug of his shoulders. My feelings entirely. (As an aside, this cyclist had an interesting retro bike, the most interesting feature of which was the beautifully polished Simplex derailleur. Mmmm!)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 07 January, 2015, 12:52:56 pm
I was once rear-ended by a friend I was cycling with, because his shoelace had got caught in his chain! He came off worse as well. When his wife heard about it she gave a great sigh, "Yes, he's 37 years old but he's never learned to tie his shoelaces."

Quote from: Pingu on 06 January, 2015, 10:50:39 am
I met a co-shirker on the way in today so I decided to follow him to work to see what his route is like. After carrying my bike up some steps, traversing sections of wet cobbles, crossing a busy dual carriageway with no dropped kerbs, cycling on pavements and being sprayed by lorries on a contraflow cycle path I arrived at work rather later than if I'd taken my usual route.

I won't be taking that route again  :hand:
"There's that wheelsucking Pingu scouting out my mega route. Time to lead him a merry dance!"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 07 January, 2015, 12:58:22 pm
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 07 January, 2015, 12:52:56 pm
"There's that wheelsucking Pingu scouting out my mega route. Time to lead him a merry dance!"

 ;D

Pingu, it could have been worse - he probably just gave up hope of dropping you in the end.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 07 January, 2015, 01:54:00 pm
Yesterday I was looking forward to the ride home.  Then I looked at the clock and realised that the clock was past 5.  I leave work late after 5.30 and I ride quickly as I can which is not very much so I was pleased to get to Pencoed station in time for the catch up train with a minute to spare.  Then I made the second mistake. I did not get off at Pontyclun. I went home via Cardiff more expensive and slower. On the 2nd train a guard finally showed up I tried to buy a ticket for my journey but the guard sold me a ticket from Cardiff I tried to correct him but he said not to worry.

 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Socks on 07 January, 2015, 07:46:26 pm
Interesting variation on the 'shouting insults' theme on the way home this evening.  In the dark and quite windy, and I have a bright flashing light as well as a constant light on the back.  The combination seems to encourage most car drivers to give me a wide berth.  So through a stretch of bends and double white lines, one careful driver waited for a long time (or maybe even a minute) before overtaking.  By which time there were four or five other cars impatiently nose to tailing behind that car.

So one of the others in the queue shouted at me to get out of the way and allow them pass (or words to that effect...) - he probably got home 30 seconds later than he would have otherwise.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 07 January, 2015, 10:59:36 pm
(https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xfa1/v/t1.0-9/10392586_10152908049761839_6122833728992334345_n.jpg?oh=6fbed4267c75377408d75fd56f1fb8ee&oe=5535CE8A&__gda__=1429031271_ae510404a364720fb1f7b084d1ae2a63)

The dynamo lighting was almost not needed on the way in this morning...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 07 January, 2015, 11:56:13 pm
I were right about that saddle...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 08 January, 2015, 08:55:49 am
Well that was rather wet, otherwise an eventless ride in.

The cape is now drying in the 'drying room' along with my gloves and skull cap.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 08 January, 2015, 01:37:59 pm
Had to take the cage for some fettling this morning so borrowed the Brompton demonstrator from the shop. A wet ride from Littlewick Green along the A4 to Maidenhead Thicket roundabout, across then right into Cannon Lane, a mile or so later arriving moist at the school.

Bromptons are a tad twitchy when used for the first time in anger aren't they?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 08 January, 2015, 02:02:55 pm
Quote from: fuzzy (retd.) AAGE on 08 January, 2015, 01:37:59 pm
Bromptons are a tad twitchy when used for the first time in anger aren't they?

All small-wheeled bikes are like that, though the M/P-type Brompton is the most severe I've ridden (the S-type feels more solid).  You do soon get used to it, and it makes them excellent for nipping about in traffic.

I find that Brompton handling benefits from properly inflated tyres and some luggage on the front.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 January, 2015, 05:45:40 pm
Quote from: Ham on 07 January, 2015, 12:09:35 am
Way home today I saw one of those project-a-green-bike-on-the-road jobbies. It had been fixed to the rear, and so a green biike image wobbled along behind. I really can't see that as an aid to visibility at all, just a distraction, you don't automatically associate the image with the bike, youjust feel a bit like a cat for a moment or two . All a bit "meh" really, no surprise.

And illegal.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 08 January, 2015, 06:48:44 pm
Stupid and pointless, not illegal I don't think. I guess that would have been picked up by marketing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 08 January, 2015, 06:59:01 pm
Not illegal unless it was a white light pointing forwards. It would be classed as an auxilliary light and perfectly legal though not sufficient.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 08 January, 2015, 08:01:15 pm
Auxiliary lights aren't allowed to be green thobut.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 09 January, 2015, 08:41:09 am
Flying this morning, going to be a different story on the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 09 January, 2015, 08:57:22 am
Only one spot where I really felt the head wind, the rest of the ride was either sheltered by hedges, houses or across the wind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 09 January, 2015, 09:25:37 am
Less windy than expected. Going to be wet this afternoon though
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 09 January, 2015, 10:05:25 am
first commute in after nearly 6 weeks and a whole lot of drama.

In trying to avoid a large manhole cover and the fact I was nervous in the wet conditions, I spectacularly managed to hit the kerb and cartwheel over the bike. I remember rolling several times and came to a stop, rolled up in a ball, clutching my head.

My damage to me is largely skin and bruising - usual suspects - legs, hip, elbow, shoulder.

Unfortunately my levers are scrapped  - I feel like crying and I tore my clothing.

Managed to drag myself into work, so it should be a ball going home tonight!

 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sojournermike on 09 January, 2015, 10:17:31 am
Quote from: velosam on 09 January, 2015, 10:05:25 am
first commute in after nearly 6 weeks and a whole lot of drama.

In trying to avoid a large manhole cover and the fact I was nervous in the wet conditions, I spectacularly managed to hit the kerb and cartwheel over the bike. I remember rolling several times and came to a stop, rolled up in a ball, clutching my head.

My damage to me is largely skin and bruising - usual suspects - legs, hip, elbow, shoulder.

Unfortunately my levers are scrapped  - I feel like crying and I tore my clothing.

Managed to drag myself into work, so it should be a ball going home tonight!


Ouch, sorry
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 09 January, 2015, 10:39:30 am
I hope damage to you heals soon velosam.

I had my first commute of the year, which was a bit of a farce...
The usual hunt the bits game was required before I left (new bracket thrown in as I couldn't find the old helmet mount for my light), and I remembered to pack a fresh towel for the shower.
Pumped tyres up before I left, but back was decidedly squishy before I got out of town. Found a bench to do the repair at. Hands blacked up nicely. There was a thorn, and an old patch was rather attached to the tyre as well as the tube.
50m down the road stopped to reattach the hub gear changer bit that I'd left disconnected.
Another 100m and stopped to tweak the wheel so it didn't rub the brakes so much (no wonder I needed the gears back there!).
A bit further on and I hit the headwind.
Got to work, all in one piece. Showered.
Forgot my shirt and shoes, good thing the plimsol things I ride in didn't get wet and I remembered a jumper!
 ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 09 January, 2015, 11:34:26 am
Cycled in slowly after yesterday's snotpocalyspe and consequent day hiding under the duvet. Perfectly nice journey infinitely enhanced by bringing the good bike (Italia) and its super plush ride involving some archetypes and balloon like michelin service course tyres. Makes me dislike the 00 even more...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 09 January, 2015, 02:25:52 pm
Was ascending Quarry Wood Road this A.M. and, when approaching the right hand bend at the top, though still some distance away, a rigid HGV overtook me. No problems. I did spy lights of a car approaching form around the bend as he finished the overtake. HGV was followed by a saloon- BMW? which completed the overtake only because the approaching car slowed to allow it. The driver of the Mini 1 that insisted on following the BMW? took exception to my description of his driving, hanging out his open window and calling back "What did you call me? What did you call me?" whilst looking back but still driving forward. I think I may have said "You heard me, now watch where you're going and jog on".

I think we shall meet again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 09 January, 2015, 05:58:20 pm
Fuzzy, would that imply you have had words with your former colleagues?

For me I stopped a vehicle on Monday to point out that the driver hadn't looked and only my watching his head and taking evasive action avoided a collision.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 09 January, 2015, 07:03:48 pm
For once I was almost glad the wind was a direct head wind. The prevailing storm winds round here blow at about 45º to the left (port bow) which is fine until you pass a gap in the hedge when you can suddenly be a metre further out into the road than you or, more importantly, the car behind you is expecting. Riding directly into it prevents that.
Horrid ride otherwise.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 09 January, 2015, 07:21:10 pm
M5 was quite exposed. Cross or headwind the whole way. I had to have the throttle pretty wide open to maintain 70mph at times. This on a bike with 130mph top speed. So I'm told your honour.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 09 January, 2015, 07:37:18 pm
"...and then I suddenly and unexpectedly entered the eye of the storm."
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 09 January, 2015, 08:33:56 pm
Seriously breezy today.
Dodged a fallen tree, granny gear needed DOWNHILL on one section, serious listing in the crosswinds, debris all over the place. Sadly not a tailwind 90% of the time!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Reg.T on 09 January, 2015, 09:09:55 pm
Two near-misses in the same spot today - a right from a main road into a residential road. Forgot something this morning, remembered a couple of minutes down the road and decided to pop back. As I was preparing to turn, a Discovery turning R from the side road just pulled out on me, forcing me to take evasive action. Banged on the side, which didn't cause them to stop but has left me with a sore hand  :hand:
Then this evening, at a near-standstill waiting for an oncoming car to pass, a big gust from my left blew me nearly into it's side as it passed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 09 January, 2015, 09:25:43 pm
Drunk lads shouted at me and went Urgh Urgh Urg like Morlocks, rip Rod Tayler.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 10 January, 2015, 02:55:06 pm
(http://jakal.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/xanthus/Random/BlueSky20150109_640.jpg)

Due to a late commute, and actually seeing daylight, I had a lovely sunny commute yesterday morning. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 12 January, 2015, 01:52:51 pm
I survived-

As posted in Todays Motorised Moron

Quote from: fuzzy (retd.) AAGE on 12 January, 2015, 01:50:00 pm
This morning, after summiting Quarry Wood Road, I was approaching the junction of Quarry Wood Road and Grubwood Lane here (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.562638,-0.752652,3a,75y,127.09h,69.64t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1sZb4MWnvR-mlkcILlipoo9A!2e0). I was drawing adjacent to the exit lane, signaling to turn right when a Mk 1 VW Golf, slammed and tricked, hooned out of the junction, on the wrong side of the road (thankfully or I would be toast) with nary a dab on the brakes or lift off the accelerator. Scared the shit out of me, almost literally. Probably missed my front wheel by about 8 feet at an estimated speed of 40- 50 MPH. looks like the driver has spent a fortune on making his car look crap but forgot to do anything about their almost no existent lighting.

Nice bloke in a Volvo following me drew up beside me after I executed my turn and enquired if I was OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 12 January, 2015, 05:47:58 pm
In an attempt to make my new commute a bit better than a rush-hour main road thrash, I tried some back roads today.
Worked well, and I think I'll use this route again.   38k round trip.
Brutal headwind on the way out this morning, though!

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/672095071
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 12 January, 2015, 06:30:02 pm
Quote from: TimO on 10 January, 2015, 02:55:06 pm
(http://jakal.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/xanthus/Random/BlueSky20150109_640.jpg)

Due to a late commute, and actually seeing daylight, I had a lovely sunny commute yesterday morning. :)

We cross the same bridge!

This morning had a nice tailwind. This evening was headwindy, rain ladened unpleasantness.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 12 January, 2015, 10:41:02 pm
Oooof, that was quite a headwind home. Luckily the pea sized sliver of flint embedded in the back tyre waited till I was at the back gate before working it's way through to the inner tube. A puncture repair in that weather would have been no fun at all.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 13 January, 2015, 08:41:14 am
All was well this morning. Even the rain buggered off before I set out :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 13 January, 2015, 08:53:52 am
Abandoned the nice side-road after 100m on account of it being sheet ice.
Run-off from the fields had frozen into a lovely thin sheet of ice for as far as I could see, so I canned that idea pretty quick.
Stuck to the main road instead, which was a least treated and non-icy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 13 January, 2015, 09:05:24 am
Well that was a rapid ride in, either I was on form or I had a wind assist, I suspect the latter.

Definitely assisted by not stopping at 5 of the T junctions and only having to wait for a couple of them even if I was delayed at 3/8 traffic lights.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 13 January, 2015, 09:25:58 am
Perfectly nice ride in. Not sure what effect the bus strike has had- there was traffic but not in the usual places. Very odd!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 13 January, 2015, 09:34:05 am
Cyclist down on Upper Brook Street , Manchester, sounds nasty, condition critical   :(

Hope he pulls through.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: caerau on 13 January, 2015, 09:59:32 am
Not a very usual type of post here but I'd actually like to mention the no 9 bus driver on my commute last night who stopped and allowed me through on a pinch point with the traffic flow priority in his favour.  :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:



Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 13 January, 2015, 10:19:51 am
To restore the balance, I had my closest attempted left hook for a good while this morning from a white fiesta van driver who was too busy trying to find the entrance to a science park to consider where the cyclist he just passed was. ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moultonaught on 13 January, 2015, 10:36:58 am
Had my scariest moment  for a looong time last night. I live on the A road between Thame and Haddenham. To get into the shared track to our house I use a right turn filter lane. I'm sat in the filter lane waiting for a break in oncoming traffic, which is usually doing at least 50!

Unfortunately the transit type van coming towards me wanted to use the right turn filter lane in the their direction which starts behind where I was waiting - but he went right too early and tried to use my lane  - presumably not having seen me.

Cue frantic arm waving - shouting, and swearing from me - I had no where to go as the lane to my left has traffic going past. Thank deity that he saw me and at the last minute swerved around me. Was way too close for comfort!  :o I was properly scared
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SlowCoach on 13 January, 2015, 05:11:15 pm
Sod it. The snow isn't supposed to lie until after 9pm tonight. It's already started - it obviously didn't read the weather forecast. I think tonight may be an 'interesting' commute home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 13 January, 2015, 05:54:25 pm
Gentle left hook on the way home. More of a Tooting caress than anything. No one hurt and no damage so let it be.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 13 January, 2015, 07:20:26 pm
Quote from: Si S on 13 January, 2015, 09:34:05 am
Cyclist down on Upper Brook Street , Manchester, sounds nasty, condition critical   :(

Hope he pulls through.

http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/greater-manchester-news/cyclist-dies-upper-brook-street-8439443

RIP  :'(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 13 January, 2015, 08:24:11 pm
I was looking forward to riding through snow this evening.  Despite the weather forecast there was none. It did not even rain. To be fair to the forecast they did say down to 100m but my commute only rises to 90m.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 14 January, 2015, 07:16:52 am
Quote from: Si S on 13 January, 2015, 07:20:26 pm
Quote from: Si S on 13 January, 2015, 09:34:05 am
Cyclist down on Upper Brook Street , Manchester, sounds nasty, condition critical   :(

Hope he pulls through.

http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/greater-manchester-news/cyclist-dies-upper-brook-street-8439443

RIP  :'(

And somehow, this description doesn't seem very likely.

Quote
......when his bike collided with the Honda, which had been travelling in the same direction in the lane next to him.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 14 January, 2015, 09:28:17 am
It's always a good commute when you beat the Bus.  :thumbsup: There it was ahead where the our routes diverge as I left home this morning and then later there it was stuck in traffic as I filtered past once the routes later converged.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 14 January, 2015, 09:33:13 am
Looked out of the window and there was no ice anywhere (including on my car which hasn't moved since Sunday morning), so set off on the normal bike. Got half a mile down the road and the cycle track was white. I chickened out and went the long way round the main roads.

Lots of variability with patches of bone dry clear stuff and others with a dusting of snow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 14 January, 2015, 10:55:17 am
Not a day for side roads this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 14 January, 2015, 01:59:22 pm
.....I found a 42" Samsung plasma TV. Bit too big for my pannier so I reported it to the Old Bill.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 14 January, 2015, 02:06:46 pm
Everybody is back at school and work, so a slower and more wary commute today. Last week was mostly train/ Brommie or off-site, so it has been over a week for a direct comparison.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 14 January, 2015, 05:43:44 pm
Quote from: Basil on 14 January, 2015, 10:55:17 am
Not a day for side roads this morning.

Aye, side roads and paths were interesting here.

It hardly thawed the whole day either, and it was even worse when I came back along the river path.

Nice to get some proper use out of the studded tyres, though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 14 January, 2015, 05:51:08 pm
(https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xap1/v/t1.0-9/10906369_10152921828661839_5375671388622877611_n.jpg?oh=8b1ff4c9c8bbb885eb7c77a96da50cfa&oe=556DA742&__gda__=1428205847_cdfce81831f6caeb6f4f4405481823e3)

First snowy tandem commute, 'cos we are well'ard!

Well, actually because by the time it started to snow if we hadn't taken the bike we'd have been massively late, so I decided to gamble on the fact that the puddles in the front street weren't frozen and it wasn't very much snow.  A gamble that paid off - the first actual ice on the road was at the entrance to the village, nearly 4 miles after having dropped the SmallestCub off at breakfast club.  Would have been better if it hadn't been just at the point that someone was trying to squeeze me in to the gutter where said frozen puddle was, but it was all fine.

The head at this morning's school commented that she'd been thinking that if I turned up on the solo she could probably have given me a lift back in the event of a significant snowfall over the course of the morning, but when she saw the tandem appear she knew that plan was out ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 14 January, 2015, 05:57:14 pm
That was fun. I think I'll order a 30-40mph tailwind again :D

Was a bit wet tho
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 14 January, 2015, 08:56:57 pm
I had to drive to the station this morning. Took the Brompton for the London end of the commute but rode back to Bromley on a different bike. A road bike. With road pedals. In road shoes. Forgot I needed to pick up the car.

Also need to call in at Tesco on the way home. I think there might be a pair of wellies in the boot. Looking forward to traipsing round Tesco in Lycra + wellies.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 14 January, 2015, 09:02:59 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 14 January, 2015, 08:56:57 pm
I had to drive to the station this morning. Took the Brompton for the London end of the commute but rode back to Bromley on a different bike. A road bike. With road pedals. In road shoes. Forgot I needed to pick up the car.

Also need to call in at Tesco on the way home. I think there might be a pair of wellies in the boot. Looking forward to traipsing round Tesco in Lycra + wellies.

That's cosmic balance for everyone who's ever driven to the start of a cycling event and forgotten their shoes...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 15 January, 2015, 10:27:07 am
The windiest commute in a very long time.  Mostly tail. I did look at the hardy souls pushing their way up Zoo hill towards corstorphine as I was flying along eastwards, and thought I hope to god this dies down by finishing time
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 15 January, 2015, 11:26:45 am
Lot of dead wood down, some big enough to hurt if they fell on you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 15 January, 2015, 11:43:51 am
Quote from: citoyen on 14 January, 2015, 08:56:57 pm
I had to drive to the station this morning. Took the Brompton for the London end of the commute but rode back to Bromley on a different bike. A road bike. With road pedals. In road shoes. Forgot I needed to pick up the car.

Also need to call in at Tesco on the way home. I think there might be a pair of wellies in the boot. Looking forward to traipsing round Tesco in Lycra + wellies.
Lycra and wellies: cycling really is the new sport of the horse-riding classes. Was the road bike a Pinarello by any chance?
 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 15 January, 2015, 11:56:05 am
I took the Mountain Bike today for more control. Very difficult when I had to ride towards the sea but made it in. It should be blowing 50 (gust 70) when I'm heading home and should be a tailwind :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 15 January, 2015, 03:07:42 pm
The half completed resurfacing on Ellison Road, in Streatham / Norbury, managed to destroy a tyre and inner tube on Tuesday.  I made a tolerably repair to the tyre with a boot, but I don't trust it for too long, and the tyre had only done about 1500 miles.  Another tyre is on order, but that's at least £20 or so down the drain.

Last night, they still hadn't done anything further to the roadway, which is essentially unusable by cyclists, and given the speed that most cars are doing, barely usable by them.  I'll see if they've gone any further today, shortly.  I have to cycle along the footway, somewhat circumspectly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 15 January, 2015, 03:08:57 pm
Quote from: Kim on 14 January, 2015, 09:02:59 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 14 January, 2015, 08:56:57 pm
I had to drive to the station this morning. Took the Brompton for the London end of the commute but rode back to Bromley on a different bike. A road bike. With road pedals. In road shoes. Forgot I needed to pick up the car.

Also need to call in at Tesco on the way home. I think there might be a pair of wellies in the boot. Looking forward to traipsing round Tesco in Lycra + wellies.

That's cosmic balance for everyone who's ever driven to the start of a cycling event and forgotten their shoes...

I went one better than that once; I had the shoes in the tailbox of my Kingcycle.  The locked tailbox of my Kingcycle.  With the key on the kitchen table of Larrington Towers, about a hundred miles away.

Fortunately the late Hairy McSteve had with him suitable screwdrivery tools to allow the Rape of the Lock through the gap above the top of the seat webbing, so I had to do the race after all chiz.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 15 January, 2015, 05:47:33 pm
Horrible wind tonight.  The sort with those sudden intense gusts that can bring you almost to a standstill.  All the way I was thinking of TG and hoping he'd got this wind at his back by now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 15 January, 2015, 05:58:52 pm
Well I've not going to get stronger cycling into a head wind if I keep bailing into a train but 7mph on the flat was just too slow to bear.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 15 January, 2015, 06:17:07 pm
I had to walk the embankment part of the cycle track on the way home. Even with the wide bars and tyres of the MTB there was far too much chance of ending up being blown off the top into the ditch.

Hoping Steve's weather is better than here.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 15 January, 2015, 11:40:30 pm
Quote from: Mr Larrington on 15 January, 2015, 03:08:57 pm
Quote from: Kim on 14 January, 2015, 09:02:59 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 14 January, 2015, 08:56:57 pm
I had to drive to the station this morning. Took the Brompton for the London end of the commute but rode back to Bromley on a different bike. A road bike. With road pedals. In road shoes. Forgot I needed to pick up the car.

Also need to call in at Tesco on the way home. I think there might be a pair of wellies in the boot. Looking forward to traipsing round Tesco in Lycra + wellies.

That's cosmic balance for everyone who's ever driven to the start of a cycling event and forgotten their shoes...

I went one better than that once; I had the shoes in the tailbox of my Kingcycle.  The locked tailbox of my Kingcycle.  With the key on the kitchen table of Larrington Towers, about a hundred miles away.

Regular readers will note that I have recently taken ownership of one of Brentford's finest folding bicycles, and fitted it with some Wellgo QRD pedals, so that I can a) have a quick-removable SPD left pedal, in lieu of a folding SPD pedal,  and  b) trivially swap both pedals for a set of platforms when circumstances require.  All in all, this seems to be a pretty good solution.

But I'm sure it's only a matter of time before I manage to turn up somewhere by motor vehicle, having left the left pedal on the living room radiator, or in the wrong luggage, or whatever.

I also predict the event will be some sort of short flat pootle with children or newbies, such that I'll have to give serious consideration to riding the whole thing on one foot...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 16 January, 2015, 06:31:05 pm
Black ice everywhere, stayed rubber side down but watching cars drifting sideways towards you is a little disconcerting
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 16 January, 2015, 06:38:37 pm
Quote from: Si S on 16 January, 2015, 06:31:05 pm
Black ice everywhere, stayed rubber side down but watching cars drifting sideways towards you is a little disconcerting

There are some here, if they said that, would mean they had come off!   :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 16 January, 2015, 06:48:27 pm
Quote from: Basil on 16 January, 2015, 06:38:37 pm
Quote from: Si S on 16 January, 2015, 06:31:05 pm
Black ice everywhere, stayed rubber side down but watching cars drifting sideways towards you is a little disconcerting

There are some here, if they said that, would mean they had come off!   :demon:

 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 19 January, 2015, 09:25:08 am
First proper icy day of the winter. With the amount of rain we've had recently that led to some big icy bits. The Schwalbe winters coped well, though I scared myself a bit by going through the top of a puddle on the rough section.

Low sun was a problem though. I suppose it's a trade off for cloudless skies, but I wasn't happy with how visible I would have been in a couple places.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 19 January, 2015, 09:28:03 am
Nice ride in this morning, crisp and clear with the studded tyres crackling on dry tarmac.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 19 January, 2015, 12:12:00 pm
'twas getting proper light this morning - we are coming out of the dark!

(relevance depends on the specific time you leave...)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Morrisette on 19 January, 2015, 02:05:19 pm
Story in the paper about how the council have bought some new gritter lorries. Obviously they are still in the boxes cos they sure weren't used last night (predicted to be below freezing for at least four days in advance). Currently trying to 'sync' my computer to a laptop so I don't have to walk the whole way every day this week. Sigh.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 19 January, 2015, 07:52:47 pm
It was a good ride in, fresh and no frost.
Cycling home was OK, it was nice not to have a double digit westerly to deal with.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 19 January, 2015, 08:05:22 pm
Quote from: Morrisette on 19 January, 2015, 02:05:19 pm
Story in the paper about how the council have bought some new gritter lorries. Obviously they are still in the boxes cos they sure weren't used last night (predicted to be below freezing for at least four days in advance).

I'd quite like to see those boxes...   :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 19 January, 2015, 09:24:42 pm
We decided discretion was the better part of valour for the school run this morning.  Well, I did - the SmallestCub whinged massively about not riding a tandem and insisted it wasn't that icy anyway.  Until he slipped and nearly fell over.

Melted by hometime, so I picked him up on the tandem and we decided to risk it for karate tonight too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 20 January, 2015, 09:18:36 am
I was fecking cold. For half the journey, fingers, thumbs and toes were killing me, despite coolmax glove liners inside windshell gloves and overshoes well, over shoes.

The shower was bliss and staying in was a seriously contemplated option.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 20 January, 2015, 09:35:28 am
Quote from: Morrisette on 19 January, 2015, 02:05:19 pm
Currently trying to 'sync' my computer to a laptop so I don't have to walk the whole way every day this week. Sigh.

Dirsyncpro FTW http://dirsyncpro.org/ A bit of a clunky UI but what you need for two way synch, really.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 20 January, 2015, 09:52:58 am
Ice on the other side of the road where there is normally running water, otherwise it was a cold clear ride in. I really must get out of the house 15 minutes earlier as the traffic at a couple of key T junctions is then considerably less.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 20 January, 2015, 10:13:03 am
Lock stuck on commuter and had to take nice bike with its summer tyres. Inevitable visit from fairy. Bah.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 20 January, 2015, 10:40:39 am
Cold and crisp, but less ice on the roads than yesterday. I'm also starting to make friends again with the two farm dogs that sit on my shortest route in. I had one dart at me a couple weeks back (I think she must have been bored) and it's left me a little frightened of them. Today I stopped and gave one a stroke, while the other ran away and cowered behind a tractor.

I'm wondering how I set a couple PRs on my commute home last night. I was racing home to meet the men from the water board (who were unblocking our sewer - again) who rang me just as I was leaving work, but I was on studded tyres and a heavy hybrid and there was no wind?

Suggests I need to work harder when it warms up and I'm back on my normal commuting bike. :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 20 January, 2015, 10:19:17 pm
-1 on the way in, +1 on the way back. Wind had turned to become an easterly for the 1st time in ages, so it felt a fair bit warmer than the +1 on the garmin.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 21 January, 2015, 09:04:03 am
An early inspection of the front street revealed slush but no ice, so the SmallestCub decided we would tandem through the flurries. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 21 January, 2015, 10:10:50 am
Pleasant bit of company for the ascent of Quarry Wood Road this morning. Bloke on a Ridgeback Panorama out for a pre work from home ride to get his commute in. Nice to have a brace of Ridgeback tourings together, what with me and my lesser machine, G G G Granville the Horizon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 21 January, 2015, 11:09:39 am
I have installed my ice tyres prematurely it seems! Still the extra workout should compensate for the post-Christmas lardiness.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 21 January, 2015, 12:07:25 pm
Quote from: alexb on 21 January, 2015, 11:09:39 am
I have installed my ice tyres prematurely it seems! Still the extra workout should compensate for the post-Christmas lardiness.

Not at all.  That'll be why it's less icy than expected.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 21 January, 2015, 02:46:49 pm
Quote from: menthel on 20 January, 2015, 10:13:03 am
Lock stuck on commuter and had to take nice bike with its summer tyres. Inevitable visit from fairy. Bah.

Had to grind the old lock off in the end- fun and fireworks!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PhilO on 21 January, 2015, 05:07:09 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 20 January, 2015, 10:40:39 am
I'm wondering how I set a couple PRs on my commute home last night. I was racing home to meet the men from the water board (who were unblocking our sewer - again) who wrang me just as I was leaving work,  but I was on studded tyres and a heavy hybrid and there was no wind?

Suggests I need to work harder when it warms up and I'm back on my normal commuting bike. :-[

Probably only "2015 PRs". I'm getting a rash of them on Strava ATM too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 21 January, 2015, 08:31:28 pm
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 21 January, 2015, 09:04:03 am
An early inspection of the front street revealed slush but no ice, so the SmallestCub decided we would tandem through the flurries.

The Cub's decision to invoke rule#5 proved not-entirely-stupid, as we only had a couple of spots of very mild wheel spin when setting off in slush, it got us there on time-ish, made my journeys round two sites much quicker than the 24" gear would have been, the snow had all melted by hometime.  Fecking cold at 5.30 this evening thobut.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 21 January, 2015, 09:13:44 pm
The traffic in east London this evening was monumental, and possibly still is. I have never in my livelong days seen gridlock the like, the a12 and north circular had been fouled all day. The stationery traffic stretched from bow to ilford, journeys that would normally take 5 minutes took 90. Even on the bike I had to slow significantly and take to pavements from time to time. A foretaste of what the world might become.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 21 January, 2015, 09:20:20 pm
Decided to risk the bike wot actually fits me today as it hadn't got too cold overnight. Glad I did as there was indeed no ice.

Not sure about tomorrow though, meant to just hit freezing overnight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 22 January, 2015, 10:07:34 am
Wot commute?

Due to the joys of flexi time, I are owed a few days off. I haz and extra long weekend :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 22 January, 2015, 11:19:10 am
Quote from: fuzzy (retd.) AAGE on 22 January, 2015, 10:07:34 am
Wot commute?

Due to the joys of flexi time, I are owed a few days off. I haz and extra long weekend :smug:

You jammy GIT,

what are you doing in here then, it's gloriously sunny outside so get out on your bike.  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 22 January, 2015, 11:50:11 am
Quote from: Ham on 21 January, 2015, 09:13:44 pm
The traffic in east London this evening was monumental, and possibly still is. I have never in my livelong days seen gridlock the like, the a12 and north circular had been fouled all day. The stationery traffic stretched from bow to ilford, journeys that would normally take 5 minutes took 90. Even on the bike I had to slow significantly and take to pavements from time to time. A foretaste of what the world might become.

The cause http://www.guardian-series.co.uk/news/wanstead_woodford_news/11738997.Major_road_closed_as_jackknifed_lorry_spills_diesel/
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 22 January, 2015, 12:07:00 pm
Quote from: Ham on 22 January, 2015, 11:50:11 am
Quote from: Ham on 21 January, 2015, 09:13:44 pm
The traffic in east London this evening was monumental, and possibly still is. I have never in my livelong days seen gridlock the like, the a12 and north circular had been fouled all day. The stationery traffic stretched from bow to ilford, journeys that would normally take 5 minutes took 90. Even on the bike I had to slow significantly and take to pavements from time to time. A foretaste of what the world might become.

The cause http://www.guardian-series.co.uk/news/wanstead_woodford_news/11738997.Major_road_closed_as_jackknifed_lorry_spills_diesel/
That pretty much sums up my experience of heading south from Walthamstow last night. There were a couple of places where it was quicker for me to dismount (yes, I did) and walk the bike along the pavement. Things didn't improve until I was south of Commercial Road and on the Isle of Dogs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mustgettaller on 22 January, 2015, 12:31:47 pm
3rd ride in this week (missed out Tuesday for some logistical reason I can't remember) - short ride from Emsworth to Langstone Technology Park. Tomorrow should make it a 4 out of 5 week.  :)

Positively tropical - only -1.5c, and this time a lot more comfortable with ski gloves on. On Monday it was -4.6c and I was only wearing 2 pairs of thin gloves. It took some minutes of agony in the shower for my hands to return to normal.

Still pretty slippery though - avoided the WHITE LINE OF DETH coming out of Emsworth (ironically it marks the edge of the vestigial bike lane - came off on it on New Year's Eve while stone cold sober). Probably annoyed the cars by not riding in the bike lane - the off camber in it coupled with detritus and puddles/ice make it not worth the risk. Definitely a couple of minor 'grip departures' at a couple of points even then. Stayed the right side up, and arrived just as dawn was arriving. All in all, a nice (short) commute - roll on the summer, when I can extend around the villages.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 22 January, 2015, 09:06:27 pm
A rather too eventful ride home culminated in a call to 101 and I should have an 8am call from TVP. No damage or injury just intimidation and a forced stop from a Range Rover with a personalised plate.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 23 January, 2015, 08:36:07 am
-5 this morning. Brrrr
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 23 January, 2015, 09:35:05 am
Yup. That was a bit of a surprise. -5 even in that London. Not forecast. Even worse was that I read the thermometer as +5 when I came down stairs. Lucky I had a second check before setting off. That caused a slight change to my wardrobe choice. Still, glorious morning and only one fuckwit encounter for the entire ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 23 January, 2015, 11:41:05 pm
Quote from: Guy on 23 January, 2015, 08:36:07 am
-5 this morning. Brrrr

-5C here too.  I was a bit wary to begin with, but nice and dry with no ice on the roads (15km) that I used.  New gloves and liners were toasty. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 26 January, 2015, 09:38:02 am
No rain, hooray and a pleasant ride in.

Some chap was drafting a lorry on the A40 in the middle lane, which I thought was crazy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 26 January, 2015, 09:54:28 am
Nice ride in, shame about the bus that tried to pass me and the cyclist ahead, down hill on approach to a parked van in the face of oncoming traffic.

There was enough space for either van, bike, bus/oncoming traffic or Van, bus, oncoming traffic but not van, bike, bus, oncoming traffic. So having pulled along side both cyclists he had to slow to squeeze in the gap between the van and the oncoming traffic, thereby pinning us in behind the van.

Then there was another bus occupying the bus stop lay-by at the bottom of the hill so he stopped half in the lay-by and half across the cycle lane.  :facepalm:

Worse though was the fact I got to work and my newspaper had fallen out of my saddle bag.  :'(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 26 January, 2015, 12:32:14 pm
40km and HRmax of 183.

 :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 26 January, 2015, 12:44:53 pm
Quote from: simonp on 26 January, 2015, 12:32:14 pm
40km and HRmax of 183.

That was me yesterday (well, 187).

Hopefully your average was lower than 161...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 26 January, 2015, 02:08:19 pm
Quote from: Kim on 26 January, 2015, 12:44:53 pm
Quote from: simonp on 26 January, 2015, 12:32:14 pm
40km and HRmax of 183.

That was me yesterday (well, 187).

Hopefully your average was lower than 161...

Not my much - 157. 183 was on Red Hill which was nearly a 15 minute climb. Could have done with gears really.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 26 January, 2015, 04:27:12 pm
It was raining hard when I left the house this morning. This was good news: it meant I knew there would be no ice.  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 27 January, 2015, 09:23:28 am
Even though Biggin Hill was reporting 2°C and London City 5°C, it wasn't as cold as I expected this morning, and it was quite a nice cycle in.

I did notice that where the Clapham Common cycle path rejoins the road, and I cross Clapham Common North Side onto Cedars Road, someone had managed to hit the traffic light (https://goo.gl/maps/WemwC) with quite some violence, it was bent over by more than 45° [1].  The pedestrian light on the far side also appeared to have failed, presumably due some wiring problem as a consequence of that collision.  I had to watch the countdown on the other side of the junction!

Footnote [1] I'd have included a photo from the camera, but the darkness and obscuration by fencing and street furniture made it all but useless.  I did try though!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 27 January, 2015, 09:34:26 am
Quote from: TimO on 27 January, 2015, 09:23:28 am
... someone had managed to hit the traffic light (https://goo.gl/maps/WemwC) with quite some violence, it was bent over by more than 45° ...

This does appear to be a regular event at this location.  This image (https://goo.gl/maps/HFJkA) on Google Streetview from June of last year, shows one of the lights on the other side suffering similarly, although at that location it's also possible an articulated lorry did it, since they often have problems cleanly turning left from Clapham Common North Side into Cedars Road.

Maybe we need a thread for photos of bent traffic lights.  I'd probably be able to add to it several times a year!  I'm not sure whether to laugh or cry at that. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 27 January, 2015, 09:52:56 am
Well that was a flyer in, record time, and I only had to put a foot down four locations (one when I stopped to buy my paper) the other three were tee junctions and not for long.

Helped by having a mountain biker drop off the kerb alongside me (I had moved out to make him space) and then sit on my rear wheel for a mile. When I called him to go through as I had run out of cadence his response was that he was saving energy. He did at least call out thanks as he turned off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 27 January, 2015, 12:00:33 pm
First commute of the year, as part of the goal to commute by bike at least once a month this year.  Was somewhat slower than the last commute on 23rd December (about 17 minutes over 3 hours).  I reckon this was mostly down to traffic, although there was also less of a tailwind today.  And most of the traffic is in the last hour of the commute (Hampton - Central London).  Lends weight to the argument that as a cyclist I am held up by motor vehicles more than I am held up by cyclists when I am driving.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 27 January, 2015, 12:41:41 pm
Quote from: TimO on 27 January, 2015, 09:34:26 am
Maybe we need a thread for photos of bent traffic lights.  I'd probably be able to add to it several times a year!  I'm not sure whether to laugh or cry at that. :(

A discussion of some particularly rubbish cycleroute bollards in another place lead me to discover that there's a whole system for quick-release street furniture because of this.  A receptacle is built into the ground, and the pole or bollard or whatever can be swapped easily with little more than a special key and a socket wrench.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 27 January, 2015, 02:36:33 pm
Quote from: TimO on 27 January, 2015, 09:23:28 am
Even though Biggin Hill was reporting 2°C and London City 5°C, it wasn't as cold as I expected this morning, and it was quite a nice cycle in.

I did notice that where the Clapham Common cycle path rejoins the road, and I cross Clapham Common North Side onto Cedars Road, someone had managed to hit the traffic light (https://goo.gl/maps/WemwC) with quite some violence, it was bent over by more than 45° [1].  The pedestrian light on the far side also appeared to have failed, presumably due some wiring problem as a consequence of that collision.  I had to watch the countdown on the other side of the junction!

Footnote [1] I'd have included a photo from the camera, but the darkness and obscuration by fencing and street furniture made it all but useless.  I did try though!

Its been like that for a few days- a very jaunty angle indeed!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 27 January, 2015, 03:11:25 pm
As I was riding up through Sydenham towards Sydenham Hill, motorcyclist ahead of me starts beeping repeatedly then stops alongside a car in the queue of traffic to have words with the driver. From my point of view, the driver did nothing particularly wrong - he may have started moving forwards in the queue while the motorcycle was overtaking him, but he didn't veer sideways or noticeably cause the motorcyclist to brake or swerve.

Bizarrely, the same thing happened again a couple of hundred metres up the road - this time it was a bus driver who had caused the motorcyclist's chagrin. Again, I didn't see anything especially wrong with the bus driver's behaviour.

The motorcyclist clearly wasn't in a hurry to get anywhere because he was still holding forth when I came by and didn't pass me again until I was halfway up the hill. Makes me wonder what's the point - if you really have that much time on your hands, just chill out and sit in the queue with everyone else.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 27 January, 2015, 09:35:27 pm
Well, that was harder than it needed to be - last night's excursion out along the old Darlo-Stockton railway path might have been a mistake, as I cleared a solid half inch of clay and hard pack from my front mudguard when I got home this affa. Even pushing the bike was an effort, as the front tyre was just jammin' in the clag.

Looks like the end of the mild weather for the time being, so back to studs for tomorrow. Roll on spring!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 27 January, 2015, 09:56:51 pm
Yes Deano, todays decent weather is due to end, so took advantage by doing a wee extra loop out via Ratho. Hard going into a strong westerly though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 27 January, 2015, 10:06:38 pm
Aye, I did a bit extra too (five mile ride extended to twenty). It was lovely out there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 28 January, 2015, 06:19:25 am
The commute back was fine last night until the Cote du Jolly Farmer where a nagging headwind developed and the temperature dropped.  My speed went from acceptable to laboured plod.  Was only a couple of minutes late and Mrs CET had made a nice chill con carne so all was well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 28 January, 2015, 08:42:29 am
Quote from: matthew on 27 January, 2015, 09:52:56 am
Well that was a flyer in, record time, and I only had to put a foot down four locations (one when I stopped to buy my paper) the other three were tee junctions and not for long.

Helped by having a mountain biker drop off the kerb alongside me (I had moved out to make him space) and then sit on my rear wheel for a mile. When I called him to go through as I had run out of cadence his response was that he was saving energy. He did at least call out thanks as he turned off.

Make that a record for the round trip, by the time I got home the count for putting my foot down was eight in the day, two tee junctions, traffic lights and a queue of traffic for the journey home.

This mornings ride in was 2 minutes slower due to queues at two tee junctions and a set of traffic lights. otherwise a clear run in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 28 January, 2015, 08:50:06 am
Quote from: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 28 January, 2015, 06:19:25 am
.. only a couple of minutes late and Mrs CET had made a nice chill con carne..


Which was nice  ;D
I demolished a huge plate of smoked fish, spuds and peas with bread and butter. I always eat late and am starving so eat a really large meal at about 9PM. Stops me grazing in the evenings but I'm sure eating that much that late isnt great. Im naturally skinny but am the heaviest I've been and its not going down.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 28 January, 2015, 11:37:56 am
Quote from: Kim on 26 January, 2015, 12:44:53 pm
Quote from: simonp on 26 January, 2015, 12:32:14 pm
40km and HRmax of 183.

That was me yesterday (well, 187).

Hopefully your average was lower than 161...


187 & 161 for me today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 28 January, 2015, 11:42:22 am
Quote from: sg37409 on 28 January, 2015, 08:50:06 am
Quote from: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 28 January, 2015, 06:19:25 am
.. only a couple of minutes late and Mrs CET had made a nice chill con carne..


Which was nice  ;D
I demolished a huge plate of smoked fish, spuds and peas with bread and butter. I always eat late and am starving so eat a really large meal at about 9PM. Stops me grazing in the evenings but I'm sure eating that much that late isnt great. Im naturally skinny but am the heaviest I've been and its not going down.

When I do my London commute I always have two breakfasts (one before and one after) and two lunches.  The second is usually a small chicken burrito eaten about an hour before I set-off.  That gets me as far as the Cote du Jolly Farmer and I can usually survive on fumes from there back to home.  But 6.5 hours in the saddle is probably 2500 - 3000 excess calories to consume.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 28 January, 2015, 11:44:08 am
… more of a 'day out' than a 'commute' surely!!! 6.5 hours!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 28 January, 2015, 11:55:18 am
And I thiught 3.5h in the saddle like today will be was sufficiently epic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 28 January, 2015, 11:56:43 am
When I was riding S'dale to Frimley, I broke it down to three ~10 minute sections, S'dale to Longacres, Longacres to the Jolly Farmer, and then to the office. The middle section was by far the shortest but includes the slog out of Bagshot, the brief respite after Nottcuts and then the final ramp up to the traffic lights. It was also the section that imposed the maximum limit on the Fixie gearing as by the time I got to the lights I really wished I wasn't carrying the laptop.

Now my Bracknell to Winnersh Triangle commute is flatter and I leave the Laptop at work unless I expect to need it at home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 28 January, 2015, 01:23:02 pm
Quote from: Kim on 27 January, 2015, 12:41:41 pm
Quote from: TimO on 27 January, 2015, 09:34:26 am
Maybe we need a thread for photos of bent traffic lights.  I'd probably be able to add to it several times a year!  I'm not sure whether to laugh or cry at that. :(
A discussion of some particularly rubbish cycleroute bollards in another place lead me to discover that there's a whole system for quick-release street furniture because of this.  A receptacle is built into the ground, and the pole or bollard or whatever can be swapped easily with little more than a special key and a socket wrench.

Which I guess they don't use very often, or it wouldn't take weeks (or sometimes months) to actually get around to repairing them.

(There's one I go past every day, which was "killed" by something in September or October, and after an initial removal of the light unit, has been lying on the ground undisturbed since then).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 28 January, 2015, 03:05:05 pm
Hard work this morning with a 15-20mph wind and fine rain, which meant I was soaked by the time I got in to work. Hopefully my kit is dry for the ride home. Atleast I am looking forward to the wind on my back on the way home?

However, just past where I lived I nearly got wiped out as I went round a bread lorry and a car pulling out just behind it. Why the fuckin lorry couldnt drive on the garage forecourt rather than on the side of a busy Aroad I dont know.  :facepalm:

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 29 January, 2015, 07:39:43 am
Quote from: TimO on 08 December, 2014, 07:56:01 am
... Today I actually remembered to grab a shot of these horses from the Fly6 before it went off of the end of the memory card.  I probably see them at least once a week, presumably when they go out early to miss the busier commuter filled roads.  Given the uniformity of look (albeit not an obvious uniform) I presume that they're members of the Household Cavalry from Hyde Park Barracks.  Typically there's anything from two to twenty riders, sometimes with horses pulling a carriage.

For some reason, I haven't seen the cavalry out for a few weeks, but did see them this morning, and managed to catch them on the front camera, for the first time. :)

(http://jakal.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/xanthus/GeneralBike/HorsesExhibitionRoad20150129.jpg)

(http://jakal.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/xanthus/GeneralBike/HorsesExhibitionRoad20150129Rear.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 29 January, 2015, 09:37:07 am
I've discovered the downside to making friends with the two dogs whose farmyard I ride through on the way to work. One is now deliberately walking in front of me to make me stop so he can have a stroke. :facepalm:

Better than being chased though :thumbsup:

Dissapointingly little snow here compared to the news reports from the other side of the county. Only a light dusting on the lower fells. I'll guess there's more hidden in the cloud on the higer ones. A few snow showers on the way in. I doubt I'll be testing out the Schwalbe Winter's snow capability.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 29 January, 2015, 06:03:17 pm
Hail, snow, rain and sleet on the way home, including the kind of hail that feels like needles being propelled at high speed into your face! I actually quite enjoy it- my kit keeps most of it out and just swanning along with no real big push is quite nice!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 29 January, 2015, 06:07:10 pm
I'm probably being a fraidy cat but it's just started snowing/sleeting so I'm getting the train from bexhill. Probably won't settle mind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 29 January, 2015, 06:42:00 pm
Spotted a guy going up Yarm Road through the snow on a Cervelo this morning.

I didn't get close enough to get a decent skeg, but Cervelo don't make cheap bikes. I wonder what his summer bike is like.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 29 January, 2015, 11:41:23 pm
And I extended my commute this evening through Firth Moor (keep to the road, lads, don't cross the Moor at night), and took the road through Blackwell Grange, which is technically a private road, but a pleasant alternative to, erm, the alternatives.

I was very pleased to spot another couple of interlopers - a pair of foxes dashed out of the undergrowth to my left then went about their business, bouncing about in the snow on the golf course and clearly having a great time of it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 30 January, 2015, 08:40:29 am
Snow studs deployed....tough going but worth it for the extra confidence.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 30 January, 2015, 09:47:00 am
Wet slush. Reduced speed a bit and normal tyres were fine.

Cars which had been parked under cover, or their owners cared enough to clear the snow off, were being driven a bit slower than usual. Cars where it was obviously too much effort for the driver to even try the windscreen wipers were being driven in the usual cockish fashion.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 30 January, 2015, 10:18:32 am
One useful thing about the road I live on is, it will have the worst conditions of the whole commute (as long as I keep to the extended version and don't attempt the extended, extended version).  So I have a check outside every morning (coffee mug in hand - slippers on feet).
So ice bike not deployed, studs would have been nice for the first few hundred yards but not for the rest of the route was the decision this morning.  Hope it stays clear for tonight
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 30 January, 2015, 10:55:35 am
Ride in was delayed to await delivery of my sofa, so the sun had had chance to get to work. Therefore I re-inflated the studs I had reduced last night and had a pleasant ride in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 30 January, 2015, 12:53:02 pm
Worst conditions I've cycled in. Snow slush and lumps of ice welded in the road, even in the car tyre tracks.

Loved it on the trike though: at least 3 rebel yells were emitted. I'd have stayed at home if I hadn't had three wheels to go on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 31 January, 2015, 04:54:56 pm
Quote from: Basil on 30 January, 2015, 10:18:32 am
One useful thing about the road I live on is, it will have the worst conditions of the whole commute  ...

Yes, I'm the same, the first couple of hundred feet can be solid packed snow (verging on being solid ice), followed by half a mile of variable slush / snow / ice, and then most of the rest of the commute on cleared main roads, assuming I switch to a main road route, and don't use some of my normal slight more circuitous cycle route sections, which are of course completed untreated or cleared.

Having said that, I haven't seen any ice or snow on any of my commutes, for the last two years.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 02 February, 2015, 11:16:29 am
Gears. 10 minutes faster over 40km. Below freezing when I set off, I think.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 02 February, 2015, 12:00:05 pm
Fixie, passed by another commuter where I would normally be doing evens and so wound it up to 25mph, unfortunately couldn't get onto the wheel and couldn't sustain the cadence (20mph = 100rpm) so he cleared off into the distance.  :-[

Otherwise uneventful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 02 February, 2015, 12:57:52 pm
Sub zero temperatures here, and the permanent puddle by the alleyway off our front street (my ice 'canary') was solid.  But the SmallestCub is clearly channelling Teethgrinder, given his reaction to the prospect of walking, so I wandered main road-wards as they were eating breakfast to see and although it was proper cold the roads were bone dry and clear, so the tandem came out to play after all.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 02 February, 2015, 01:35:08 pm
Cold, brr! Left a little later than usual so it was nice and light all the way to work though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 02 February, 2015, 09:08:32 pm
As low as -1.5 on the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 02 February, 2015, 09:11:37 pm
Cold toes. But otherwise alright. Dry roads apart from a couple known trouble spots meant I wasn't overly worried about ice (still took it cautiously though) and no headwind so not too difficult pootling the ice bike along.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 03 February, 2015, 09:29:11 am
Snowy roads for the ride in, most were cleared by the actions of the car tyres but there was still some slush around for the unwary.

One interesting moment when the vehicle approaching from the left to give way locked the front wheels and kept going1.

As it was I got in in normal time.

1 Slowly
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 03 February, 2015, 04:03:30 pm
Quote from: TimO on 31 January, 2015, 04:54:56 pm
... Having said that, I haven't seen any ice or snow on any of my commutes, for the last two years.

Famous last words. :)

Only a cm or two of snow this morning in That London, but enough that I got out the snow bike.  I probably had to cycle across just under a couple of miles of relatively fresh snow, near home, and on Tooting Bec and Clapham Commons.

(http://jakal.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/xanthus/GeneralBike/20150203_Snow.jpg)

Some of the tracks from earlier cyclists meandered around, and occasionally shot off the path somewhat alarmingly.  The few cyclists I saw, and those who had previously been past, evident from their tracks, were all using quite narrow road tyres.  They clearly didn't have the grip of my studded tyres, which didn't lose grip even slightly at any point.

They were quite hard work though, so I'm going to pump the tyres back up a bit before I leave this evening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 04 February, 2015, 10:30:56 am
There's still snow and ice around but the roads were clear and dry, so an uneventful, if somewhat cold, ride in today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 04 February, 2015, 10:41:32 am
the roads were sparkling last night as I rode home from the band rehearsal, however by this morning it was only the cycleway that was frosty and the puddles weren't frozen.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 04 February, 2015, 02:31:17 pm
Bit nippy this morning setting of. Just got up and over the first hill so was warmed up then changed back on to the top ring and the chain slipped off. I changed back down to get the chain back on and it wouldnt go. So I tried it again and the chain starting making a funny noise in to the wheel. So I stopped and tried to put it on by hand, and afer about 5minutes trying to see in the dark in appeared that the chain was completely twisted and bent??!! So rather than trying to arse around bodging it I walked the three miles home  :sick: in cycle shies (recessed luckily) and went to work in the car  :facepalm:

I think a new chain is in order, but havent checked as I needed to get to work! I have had the chain a year or so, so I am not too bothered. I remember someone telling me that when you change the chain you need a new block at the back, as it is a false economy? Or is this bollocks?  :o Help would be appreciated.  8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 04 February, 2015, 04:29:15 pm
Quote from: Under the arches on 04 February, 2015, 02:31:17 pm
I remember someone telling me that when you change the chain you need a new block at the back, as it is a false economy? Or is this bollocks?  :o Help would be appreciated.  8)

Depends how worn the block/chain is.  Basically, sprockets wear to fit the chain, so it's usual to replace the chain when it reaches a certain amount of 'stretch', in order that the block still fit the new one without skipping.  So you can get through maybe 3 chains before the block needs replacing.

(With single speed / hub gears, you can just let the chain and sprocket wear together until it's completely knackered.)

See: http://sheldonbrown.com/chains.html#wear
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 04 February, 2015, 04:44:22 pm
Not mine, the Mrs'.

After about six years of three day a week commuting two miles each way, she actually got a flat. Reserve bike had to be deployed. (Tyre had gone down since bike was last used.)

Marathons, so I know what I will be doing this evening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 04 February, 2015, 04:47:54 pm
It was so cold this morning that I had to snap a dog off a lamp post.  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 04 February, 2015, 04:53:20 pm
Cheers. Block & chain are not quite a year old. So just a new chain.  8) I like them rule of thumbs  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 04 February, 2015, 07:04:06 pm
Had my second ever 'you've lost one!' as I tandemed stoker-less through the smattering of SNO back from dropping a SmallestCub at breakfast club.  Moved the stoker saddle up a fair bit and took the EldestCub to the GP (my word he throws his weight around back there - the littly has MUCH better stokerskillz!) then gave him a lift back to a convenient bus stop for school before going the other way to do a zillion jobs and finally getting to work.

All melted in the rain by/at hometime.  Chilly rain though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 04 February, 2015, 11:13:45 pm
sub zero starting temperatures for two weeks. So that's been two solid weeks on the trike. My thighs know about it.

On the plus side I've part solved my numb feet problem by significantly loosening the laces on my shoes around the ball of the foot.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 05 February, 2015, 08:40:58 am
The snow started to fall just as I left home, wasn't quite sticking to the roads or my glasses but did start to stick on my arms  :o

The warm shower on arrival at work was appreciated.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 06 February, 2015, 04:35:43 pm
Wahey !  First full house of the year, and this even included one early morning and one late night run to drop off/collect the car at/from the menders.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 09 February, 2015, 09:07:01 am
Walked out of the back gate, down the steps, across the slightly downward sloping parking area and pavement - and couldn't stop till I reached the crown of the road. Somehow managed to stay upright. Went back in, changed my shoes, and no - ok, very few - slips. There seemed to be more cyclists around than normal, ironically - perhaps just down to that five-minute delay?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 09 February, 2015, 09:44:20 am
No risk of ice, back on the non-studded Horizon and 4 minutes off the commuting time. :thumbsup:

I may even be tempted to put in a long loop on the way home :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 09 February, 2015, 09:46:04 am
I forgot to mention that not only is it apparently -4 here (doesn't feel as cold as last week, though) but there is fog. Well, there was, it's lifted now. So we had a conversation about causes of fog.  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 09 February, 2015, 12:37:28 pm
Today was my first commute this month.  Last week I was outside in -20 oC. I was properly dressed in ski clothing. This morning felt a lot colder in my cycle clothing and British humidity.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 10 February, 2015, 08:07:23 am
Advice: When riding a bike with deep aero wheels, make sure your spare tube has a long valve stem… Still, nice morning for a 4 mile walk.

:facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 February, 2015, 08:13:02 am
*looks at redundant valve extender on desk*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 10 February, 2015, 09:04:24 am
I hear those valve extender things are quite useful. Maybe I should get one.

On the plus side, at least I was wearing SPDs rather than road shoes today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 10 February, 2015, 03:24:40 pm
I haven't cycled on my commute for over 2 weeks. I have been doing a lot more wlking instead. Seems to be doing me some good..
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 10 February, 2015, 09:04:54 pm
(https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/10968449_10152977696841839_2679618415320516933_n.jpg?oh=2efa992104ae431797ead437947328c2&oe=55597ACA&__gda__=1435849653_394b4ec8128c9ecf6708bdf114605ced)

Wint'ry on the way in.  It took 5 minutes, once I'd arrived, to get my toes back and for a while I wished I hadn't.  Ouch.

Stokerised another of the SmallestCub's classmates, who was invited round for tea, on the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 10 February, 2015, 10:36:40 pm
Due to roadworks on the A321 in Wokingham I may have to find another route to work.

I don't use the 321, but the diverted traffic is on my route and is snarling up the town centre.   >:(

Worse they are queueing back from tee junctions where I can't filter past them due to narrow roads and oncoming traffic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 11 February, 2015, 10:38:38 am
Very, very annoyed by the new "Cyclists take Care" signs on Clapham Common which show a cyclist colliding with some pedestrians!
Talk about inflammatory.

I spoke to the parks police when they first appeared and was told it was because cyclists were "speeding" on the Common's cycle path. That's fair enough, there was apparently a collision between a blind pedestrian and a cyclist, which is terrible, and this prompted the signs to be installed, but since then the language and signage has gotten more aggressive and negative towards cyclists.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 11 February, 2015, 12:54:18 pm
Minus 6.4 on the ride in this morning...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 11 February, 2015, 02:17:36 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 10 February, 2015, 08:07:23 am
Advice: When riding a bike with deep aero wheels, make sure your spare tube has a long valve stem… Still, nice morning for a 4 mile walk.

:facepalm:

Is this a bonus of having access to review kit?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 11 February, 2015, 02:30:22 pm
Quote from: alexb on 11 February, 2015, 10:38:38 am
Very, very annoyed by the new "Cyclists take Care" signs on Clapham Common which show a cyclist colliding with some pedestrians!
Talk about inflammatory.

I spoke to the parks police when they first appeared and was told it was because cyclists were "speeding" on the Common's cycle path. That's fair enough, there was apparently a collision between a blind pedestrian and a cyclist, which is terrible, and this prompted the signs to be installed, but since then the language and signage has gotten more aggressive and negative towards cyclists.

I dunno, I think it's the cyclists' responsibility to take care around pedestrians, they're the more vulnerable party and signage should be directed at them. And I hate to say it, but whenever I take the route across the common it's pretty much guaranteed that one or more cyclists will overtake me at not inconsiderable speed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jsabine on 11 February, 2015, 02:53:18 pm
Quote from: ian on 11 February, 2015, 02:30:22 pm
Quote from: alexb on 11 February, 2015, 10:38:38 am
Very, very annoyed by the new "Cyclists take Care" signs on Clapham Common which show a cyclist colliding with some pedestrians!
Talk about inflammatory.

I spoke to the parks police when they first appeared and was told it was because cyclists were "speeding" on the Common's cycle path. That's fair enough, there was apparently a collision between a blind pedestrian and a cyclist, which is terrible, and this prompted the signs to be installed, but since then the language and signage has gotten more aggressive and negative towards cyclists.

I dunno, I think it's the cyclists' responsibility to take care around pedestrians, they're the more vulnerable party and signage should be directed at them. And I hate to say it, but whenever I take the route across the common it's pretty much guaranteed that one or more cyclists will overtake me at not inconsiderable speed.

Quite possible to have signs that convey messages about vulnerability and responsibility without simultaneously being aggressive and negative , thobut.

Something like "Pedestrian priority; please cycle considerately" works for me, or even "Cyclists give way to pedestrians."
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 11 February, 2015, 09:35:17 pm
Quote from: Feanor on 11 February, 2015, 12:54:18 pm
Minus 6.4 on the ride in this morning...

Extra ganzie?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 11 February, 2015, 10:22:59 pm
Quote from: jsabine on 11 February, 2015, 02:53:18 pm
Quote from: ian on 11 February, 2015, 02:30:22 pm
Quote from: alexb on 11 February, 2015, 10:38:38 am
Very, very annoyed by the new "Cyclists take Care" signs on Clapham Common which show a cyclist colliding with some pedestrians!
Talk about inflammatory.

I spoke to the parks police when they first appeared and was told it was because cyclists were "speeding" on the Common's cycle path. That's fair enough, there was apparently a collision between a blind pedestrian and a cyclist, which is terrible, and this prompted the signs to be installed, but since then the language and signage has gotten more aggressive and negative towards cyclists.

I dunno, I think it's the cyclists' responsibility to take care around pedestrians, they're the more vulnerable party and signage should be directed at them. And I hate to say it, but whenever I take the route across the common it's pretty much guaranteed that one or more cyclists will overtake me at not inconsiderable speed.

Quite possible to have signs that convey messages about vulnerability and responsibility without simultaneously being aggressive and negative , thobut.

Something like "Pedestrian priority; please cycle considerately" works for me, or even "Cyclists give way to pedestrians."

I dunno, I've not seen the sign, and it's possibly a crazy-eyed cyclist stabbing random pedestrians in the head with a bloodstained chainwheel. But a minority of cyclists are, alas, dicks when it comes to mixing it up with people in parks.

Asking drivers nicely not to speed doesn't much work, I'm not sure we deserve the same courtesy when we're the ones at fault (yeah, yeah, not all of us). If it shames some people into slowing down, then good. Pedestrians are curiously random and genuinely don't expect to meet a cyclist even on a bike path. And not everyone has sight and hearing, or the agility to leap out of the way. And there's kids and dogs. Parks and commons aren't the place to doing a lycra Kessel Run. It's a shame some of us need to be told this with a sign.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jsabine on 12 February, 2015, 12:03:03 am
Quote from: ian on 11 February, 2015, 10:22:59 pm
Quote from: jsabine on 11 February, 2015, 02:53:18 pm
Quote from: ian on 11 February, 2015, 02:30:22 pm
Quote from: alexb on 11 February, 2015, 10:38:38 am
Very, very annoyed by the new "Cyclists take Care" signs on Clapham Common which show a cyclist colliding with some pedestrians!
Talk about inflammatory.

I spoke to the parks police when they first appeared and was told it was because cyclists were "speeding" on the Common's cycle path. That's fair enough, there was apparently a collision between a blind pedestrian and a cyclist, which is terrible, and this prompted the signs to be installed, but since then the language and signage has gotten more aggressive and negative towards cyclists.

I dunno, I think it's the cyclists' responsibility to take care around pedestrians, they're the more vulnerable party and signage should be directed at them. And I hate to say it, but whenever I take the route across the common it's pretty much guaranteed that one or more cyclists will overtake me at not inconsiderable speed.

Quite possible to have signs that convey messages about vulnerability and responsibility without simultaneously being aggressive and negative , thobut.

Something like "Pedestrian priority; please cycle considerately" works for me, or even "Cyclists give way to pedestrians."

I dunno, I've not seen the sign, and it's possibly a crazy-eyed cyclist stabbing random pedestrians in the head with a bloodstained chainwheel. But a minority of cyclists are, alas, dicks when it comes to mixing it up with people in parks.

Asking drivers nicely not to speed doesn't much work, I'm not sure we deserve the same courtesy when we're the ones at fault (yeah, yeah, not all of us). If it shames some people into slowing down, then good. Pedestrians are curiously random and genuinely don't expect to meet a cyclist even on a bike path. And not everyone has sight and hearing, or the agility to leap out of the way. And there's kids and dogs. Parks and commons aren't the place to doing a lycra Kessel Run. It's a shame some of us need to be told this with a sign.

Drivers, no matter how dickish they are, get round signs with black numbers in the middle, and flashy signs with smiley faces or sad faces. Neither of those seem particularly aggressive or negative to me.

I've not seen the Clapham signs either, but it seems to me that if anyone deserves inflammatory signs directed at them, it's the folk who kill 1700 people a year, not the folk who don't. (And no, I'm not arguing for my god-given right to perform a two-wheeled slalom past the Long Pond.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 12 February, 2015, 09:02:19 am
Cor the traffic was bad this morning...

Thank goodness for an empty pavement to filter to the tee junction and my left turn. *slaps own wrist*

I don't know how the drivers put up with the delay to their journey.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 12 February, 2015, 09:16:31 am
Whether it was the traffic (heavy) or the weather (heavy) or my late start (by about 25 mins, heavy, man) the air quality was seriously crap today. In fact it was so crap and heavy it made me think of https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kg_Utj4Aljc
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 12 February, 2015, 12:13:28 pm
Quote from: jsabine on 12 February, 2015, 12:03:03 am

I've not seen the Clapham signs either, but it seems to me that if anyone deserves inflammatory signs directed at them, it's the folk who kill 1700 people a year, not the folk who don't. (And no, I'm not arguing for my god-given right to perform a two-wheeled slalom past the Long Pond.)

I'm not arguing, I can't find a picture of the sign in question, but I don't in principle see the issue with a sign that shows a cyclist hitting pedestrians and tells them to slow down. I'm no fan of the frowny speeding signs and I think that perhaps they ought to show a mangled child tossed 20 metres because that's what speeding does. People don't just frown when you run them over at speed. And maybe we should fine them and add some points to their licence while we are it. Laws didn't ought to be optional for drivers.

To be honest, as a pedestrian, it's not nice when bikes whizz by at speed. I know they're not going to kill me, and the danger isn't nearly as manifest as with a vehicle, but it's unpleasant and I can see why people get het up about it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 12 February, 2015, 06:01:44 pm
Today I could see where I was going. It turns out that I've been riding almost front-lightless for an unknown period.

In the garage, I'd turn on my uber-light (£5 from Planet-X) and my dimly glowing redundant system/emergency backup. Then I'd faff with gloves and stuff and, eventually head off. I'd always thought the uber-light was good in the garage and abysmal on the road. I was beginning to wonder if a bad lamp could actually make visibility worse - sort of added darkness or negative light.

It transpires that the batteries were dead. Good enough to fire up in the garage - but die before I'd finished faffing or got to the road.

Anyway, 4 x AAA added so I should be good for another week. Or 6 months like last time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 12 February, 2015, 06:18:32 pm
I think that effect explains why so many people ride around with feeble rear blinkies - they work fine for the first minute or two.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 12 February, 2015, 06:21:11 pm
@ Pancho  :facepalm:  :)

Anyway, inspired by Double Gibbons and the like, my commute is getting just silly.

Manager:  You overtook me twice!  Did you get lost?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 12 February, 2015, 06:55:51 pm
Quote from: Basil on 12 February, 2015, 06:21:11 pm
@ Pancho  :facepalm:  :)

Anyway, inspired by Double Gibbons and the like, my commute is getting just silly.

Manager:  You overtook me twice!  Did you get lost?

 ;D ;D

Quote from: Basil's reply
No, I just thought I would rub it in, how long were you stuck in traffic for?  O:-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 12 February, 2015, 07:30:07 pm
Towards end of commute home, turning right from main road into a side street.  WVM waiting to turn right out of said road, inching forward as I turn, then as I'm very near him into side road he does the biggest wheel spin he could probably manage to pull out .  Made me jump.   >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 12 February, 2015, 07:44:42 pm
Quote from: Pingu on 11 February, 2015, 09:35:17 pm
Quote from: Feanor on 11 February, 2015, 12:54:18 pm
Minus 6.4 on the ride in this morning...

Extra ganzie?

Looks like the Audax Ecosse "maillot de rechange" can remain in the Quartermaster's store.

After another cold ride in, I noticed I had all the vents in my top fully open  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 13 February, 2015, 09:52:16 am
Strange one today one bus driver who was dragging what looked like someone's washing behind him, big metal hooped bag of clothes  :-\ ,  but didn't want to know and another on Oxford Road who tailgated, undertook whilst mouthing abuse as I was turning right, then pulled over immediately, started to apologise (I'm now in the minor road off to the right) before the lights changed and he drove off.  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 13 February, 2015, 10:03:47 am
The three F's conspired to make the ride rather pleasant this morning: Friday, Forecast rain and Force 8 kept people off their bikes.

As it didn't rain or blow too much on the way in, it was all good. Return may not be so clement.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 13 February, 2015, 12:18:40 pm
The wind had arrived in Somerset in time for my ride into work. The cross wind blowing me into the slippery mud towards the edge of the road was particularly unpleasant. And the sound of a vehicle on my shoulder didn't help. Fortunately it was a local bus and the bus drivers round here are almost always very considerate. He waited until he was sure things were clear, then passed my nice and wide. The main band of rain has now passed so the journey home will be just dodging the showers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jasmine on 16 February, 2015, 02:15:23 pm
On the ride in today I was passed by a car, which then stopped in the middle of the lane about 100m up the road.  I think it is turning right, but no indicators and no movement when the road is clear.  As I approach, the driver gets out and is looking very red faced.

"Oh shit," I think, "WTF have I done?"  I was just riding along the road, there's been no hint of an incident. Might be one of those weirdos who randomly abuses cyclists.

"How do I get back onto the A55?" Turns out that she's trying to get to the airport and is totally lost, and now running late.  She's totally flustered and starting to panic.  I point her back in the right direction and away she goes.

Odd.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jsabine on 16 February, 2015, 04:49:37 pm
"Sorry, I've no idea. I always use the cyclepath just [up¦back] there, but I don't think your car'll fit down it."
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 17 February, 2015, 08:29:16 am
... I got ambushed by black ice :'(

Fresh but no frost evident on the first couple of miles until I turn right from Quarry Wood Road into Grubwood Lane. At this point, my earworm of I got a feeling by Black Eyed Peas turned to Ooooh ya bastard! as I hit the tarmac on my right side and lay dazed in the road for a few seconds. I managed to get up and scoot after my escaping Exposure light as it slid down the road.

A quick inspection- Shoulder OK? Check. Arm OK? Check, Wrist OK? Check, Hip OK? Scuffed but functional, Head OK? Aches but check, Bike OK? Check, Helmet OK? Looks fine but will need a closer inspection.

Examine the road and discover it would have done Torvill and Dean or Katarina Witt proud so I take to the verge and walk for a few hundred yards before the ice clears. I remount and ride on but had a few more 'clencher moments' as I find more patches of ice dotted around. Thankfully these were on straight sections of road and were a bit more evident to these pre warned eyes.

I now have a bit of a headache and am a bit nauseous. Scuff marks on the helmet may suggest why. I shall proceed on my days toil with caution I think.

Be careful out there folks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 17 February, 2015, 08:46:32 am
No lights for the first time this year. I actually rode in in sunshine. 8)

Are fingers supposed to go numb after about 10 minutes inside thinsulate gloves?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 February, 2015, 11:11:25 am
You as well as Pancho, fuzzy?

Take care of yourself today.  You may develop symptoms later on.  Don't be shy of getting checked.

Hope you're OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 17 February, 2015, 11:21:02 am
Probably my fault. I was thinking of removing the studs over the weekend as it seemed to be warming up :-[
I hope you and Pancho are ok.

My ride was quiet and uneventful. Not sure where all the traffic went, I think half term has something to do with it. No ice, but a cold wind. Even so I arrived at work boiling as I set off late.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 17 February, 2015, 11:31:34 am
Quote from: mcshroom on 17 February, 2015, 11:21:02 am
Probably my fault. I was thinking of removing the studs over the weekend as it seemed to be warming up :-[


You were not alone in that consideration, I have had a couple of evening commutes where the studs have made cornering less certain. Now I am not so sure about swapping them off just yet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 17 February, 2015, 12:38:49 pm
Quote from: fuzzy (retd.) AAGE on 17 February, 2015, 08:29:16 am
... I got ambushed by black ice :'(

<snip>

I now have a bit of a headache and am a bit nauseous. Scuff marks on the helmet may suggest why. I shall proceed on my days toil with caution I think.

Be careful out there folks.

<unlike>  Get it checked out. Has your school (you work at a school don't you) got a Crool Nurse you can see?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 17 February, 2015, 07:07:09 pm
Sympathies, Fuzzy - looks like we both had a fall today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonBuoy on 17 February, 2015, 10:24:56 pm
I wore my shades on my commute to and from work today  8)
 
Ok - so it was a bit marginal by the time I got home but that's not the point...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 17 February, 2015, 10:46:25 pm
Quote from: JonBuoy on 17 February, 2015, 10:24:56 pm
I wore my shades on my commute to and from work today  8)
 
Ok - so it was a bit marginal by the time I got home but that's not the point...

Hit it!

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=WZ3zZ-aWi6U
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 18 February, 2015, 08:43:02 am
I'm not saying it was a cold ride in but one of my brakes froze into the open position.

And the one day I forget my helmet it's icy - I was fine til I realised it wasn't there and then suddenly nervous and wobbly. Silly brane.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonBuoy on 18 February, 2015, 12:45:30 pm
Quote from: Deano on 17 February, 2015, 10:46:25 pm
Quote from: JonBuoy on 17 February, 2015, 10:24:56 pm
I wore my shades on my commute to and from work today  8)
 
Ok - so it was a bit marginal by the time I got home but that's not the point...

Hit it!

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=WZ3zZ-aWi6U

 :)

That is this evening's earworm sorted.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 19 February, 2015, 12:28:42 pm
Got a nice 'thank you' wave from a lorry driver Smithfield market this morning, when I stopped with a reasonable distance to allow him to finish reversing.

WVM behind me neither squeezed me, nor overtook right into the back of the TL queue.

A N Other cyclist complimented both my Brommie and my beard, whilst waiting at a set of lights.

AND it only started raining once I'd got into the office.

 :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 19 February, 2015, 12:49:35 pm
Can we stay with Half term please, the lack of traffic in the morning has been most pleasant even if it does mean I don't get to ride past the queue.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 19 February, 2015, 05:59:42 pm
I've picked up my commuting a bit this year,  it's a more modest 35k round-trip now.
I'm aiming to ride 3 or 4 days a week.
Last 2 weeks, I've managed 4 days which I'm happy with.

On my ride home tonight, I was aiming to try to break the 30kph average, and I did. Just.
https://connect.garmin.com/activity/701169614
#BloomingKnackered.

Pours self congratulatory glass of grog as recovery drink as it's proxy Friday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: macnark on 20 February, 2015, 08:38:49 pm
Forgot wife's car was in for a service and I'd promised to pick it up for her on my way home from work. They close at 5pm, only remembered at 4:30, 10 miles to cover in 1/2 hour on an MTB with fat nobblies. Got there at 4:55 - amazed myself at what can be done when panic sets in. Had that 'feeling epic' feeling. Paid exhorbitant fee, delivered car to wife. Got bollocking from wife for ringing doorbell and making her get up off the sofa, as I'd forgotten my house keys. Cheers love. Thank heavens for the calming effect of endorphins :-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 23 February, 2015, 09:47:30 am
Went to get my normal commuter (kept down side alley) - rear flat, so picked the pompetamine from the shed SEEKRIT BUNKER, taking through house:

Mrs Ham: What are you bringing the bike through the house for?
Ham: Cos I haz a flat on the Marin, this is from the shed
Mrs Ham: I suppose that's the benefit of having lots of bikes.

YESSSSSSSS!!!!! I hear the joyful sound of N+1 !!

Great ride in, too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 23 February, 2015, 10:49:46 am
three part commute this morning as the car's still off the road.

First from home to Stroud railway station, fair enough.

Then standing up on the train as the luggage racks were full of stuff that would go in the overhead spaces, but no they were full so I had to stand in the vestibule for an hour and a bit with the Brompton. Also if you are walking from the station, please try to look where you are going if you can't manage that then I may have to ask mr bear to explain it to you, also stopping suddenly in a line of people should result in sudden death.

Ride to the office was alright really, just the icky bit on the train.

D.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 23 February, 2015, 12:01:26 pm
Its odd having light around 630 but nevertheless made it in fine and it didnt rain - yah.

Followed some chappy for a bit of the way, but then he went in the opposite direction to me and somehow ended up at Euston before me.

I may have to follow him next time
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 23 February, 2015, 08:55:49 pm
A very bad commute today.

Misfortune 1.
I decide to catch the train but getting ready to leave the house I get delayed looking for my glasses. I arrive at the station to see the only train I could get on for half an hour depart. That would make me late for work. No problem I am sitting on a bike.  I turn around and head out of Radyr and turn right on to the Llantrisant road.

Misfortune 2.
I pass the roundabout I use when it is icy. I pass the lane I normally use. I go down the hill to Rhydlafar and back up the side to Capel Llaniltern. I continue past Star Lane and Heol St y Nyll, I am glad I did not catch the train, then the fairy strikes.  It starts to hail.

Misfortune 3.
No problem I have two new tubes and am in a good mood. It appears to be a slow one perhaps I can just put a little air into it, ride to work and repair in the warmth.  I look down to get the pump. It is not there. Last time I demudified the bike I had removed the pump and apparently not put it back. No fixes today. The sky decided to throw hail at me.

Misfortune 4.
I start walking towards work. Actually I was aiming for Pontyclun station. I arrive at the Castell Mynach where my colleague would turn left to the M4. If he saw me he might give me a lift. I am too early so turn right towards Pontyclun.

Misfortune 5.
I arrive at the station. I watch a FGW 125 zoom past on its way to Swansea.  I watch a Class 175 Coradia zoom past on its way to Milford Haven. I think shouldn't that have passed first? I phone work to tell them the obvious, "I am late". Then a Class 150 'Sprinter' zooms past on its way to Llanelli and the Mid Wales line. Finally a class 158 'Super Sprinter' heading for Maesteg stops. After a few stops I arrive at Bridgend and resume pushing the bike towards work.  I stop and the Bridgend Cycle Centre.  I embarrassingly request the shopkeeper to fit a new tube. He removes the tyre checks it and reports you appear to have ridden over some glass or some other sharp object this tyre is finished. So a new tyre is required.

Misfortune 6.
He further checks my bike and points to the concave shape of the wheel's braking surface. You will need to replace that rim soon he tells me. I take a look and can see it is starting to split. I do not think I have had my money worth from that rim.

I arrive at work an hour and a half late, another commute complete.

 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ruthie on 23 February, 2015, 09:01:18 pm
Were you still in a good mood when you got there?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 23 February, 2015, 09:03:16 pm
Why not?  I being unhappy would not make things better  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ruthie on 23 February, 2015, 09:05:17 pm
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 23 February, 2015, 09:03:16 pm
Why not?  I being unhappy would not make things better  :)

The best thing anyone's said all day.  So true!  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 24 February, 2015, 09:32:10 am
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 23 February, 2015, 09:03:16 pm
Why not?  I being unhappy would not make things better  :)

You could have a nice cathartic rant about it on, say, an Internet cycling forum.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 24 February, 2015, 09:35:50 am
Have they called another half term or something?
First commute of the week and the traffic was just as quiet as last week, which I'm sure actually was half term.  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: caerau on 24 February, 2015, 09:46:30 am
Friday last week had me wondering if I'd missed out on a public holiday, Christmas Day is no less quiet.


Was busy today on the Cowbridge road West in Cardiff today though - turned out more than it needed to have been.  I was filtering up the middle of the near stationary traffic queues when I noticed a large gap in the traffic ahead and wondered why the two cars at the front weren't racing off to plug the gap as is the standard MO.


Then when they still didn't move I assumed one was turning off right across the carriageway opposite and the other left, but no signalling.  Wary that they were going to race off at any moment I tentatively went up the middle and turned on the power as I reached them and then discovered that NO, not turning - they were having a chat and holding up about 200 people behind them.  :facepalm:


I think it was a bicycle overtaking them then racing off that started off the symphony of horns as the rest of the queue worked out what was going on.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 24 February, 2015, 10:46:28 am
Yes event free today, no twisted chains or 3mile walks. But the wind was hard going down the roman road bit of the A48  :facepalm:.

Still looking forward to the ride own with the wind on my back  8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 24 February, 2015, 11:09:09 am
Into Solihull for a meeting over coffee at 8.30 and handing over a pile of long service awards to one of my District Commissioners. I do like awards, presenting them is one of the good parts of being a commissioner in the Scouts.

Hammer onwards to work in Small Heath, I never remembered the Warwick road being so hilly before, but usually I've got more gears than the 3 on the Brompton.



Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 24 February, 2015, 11:29:24 am
Dropped my car off at the garage on the way to work today. Never a good parting with the mechanic going away to work out how much it's going to cost to fix - especially when he's warning it may not be worth fixing :(

15 mph for the first time in a long while on the way in though. Main roads from the garage and thinking about something other than hills is obviously good for average speed.  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 24 February, 2015, 11:34:14 am
Was slightly caught out this morning, bus stopped on short decent with a lorry behind. I'm along side the lorry overtaking both when the bus indicates to pull away.

Cue 150rpm cadence and 30mph through the dip to clear both. Otherwise I am looking forward to the tail wind home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 24 February, 2015, 11:35:46 am
Commute last night was a little longer than scheduled. I rode from Monument to Farringdon, against the Arctic Freezing Gale. Successfully avoided a pedestrian who stepped into the cycle lane without looking, to use it to overtake another pedestrian. Got to the station, feeling very pleased with myself for arriving just in time for my train... except, since I moved house on Friday, that is no longer 'my' train, nor even 'my' station. :facepalm:

I then rode to London Bridge against the Arctic Freezing Gale, which had of course turned around, thanks to the Velocipedeal Law of Unrelenting Headwinds, and arrived in time to catch a train. A 2-car Class 171 which was very full, but I scored a fold-down seat in the vestibule with my Brommie.

This morning was mostly uneventful, with only one incident of note - a left hook... from a cyclist! I braked hard and their rear wheel missed my front by an inch or two. Yikes!

I've still got to figure out a properly convenient way of dealing with my FibreFlare.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 25 February, 2015, 12:32:49 pm
The train before mine broke down in the platform this morning.

Southern Failway sprang into action, notifying everyone that both Train 1 was cancelled (broken down in Platform 1) and Train 2 was cancelled. Train 2 then pulled into Platform 3, bang on time, and departed bang on time after boarding about 5 people who managed to sprint quickly enough from Platform 1, down into the subway and back up, onto Platform 3.

'Never fear,' said Southern Failway, 'Train 3 will be arriving shortly to whisk you all to London Bridge, please go to Platform 3.' Dutifully, two train-loads of passengers (minus the 5 lucky sprinters) trooped over to Platform 3 and joined the throng of people waiting their regular train which, by now, had been cancelled.

A VERY BRITISH murmur and gentle shuffling ran through the crowd as headlights came into view - Train 3 is arriving to whisk us all to London Bridge! Except Train 3 had a different plan, and sped through without stopping, it's 12 carriages gloriously empty. 'Never fear,' said Southern Failway, 'Passengers for Lower Arse-End via Nowhere, please go to Platform 5.'

A VERY BRITISH murmur and gentle shuffling ran through the crowd as headli-'Never fear,' said Southern Failway, 'Passengers for Lower Arse-End via Nowhere, please go to Platform 5.'-ghts came into view - Train 4 is arriving to whisk us all to London Bridge! Except Train 4 had a different plan, and sped through without stopping, it's 12 carriages gloriously half-empty. 'Never fear,' said Southern Failway, 'Passengers for Lower Arse-End via Nowhere, please go to Platform 5.'

'Never fear,' said Southern Failway, 'Passengers for Lower Arse-End via Nowhere, please go to Platform 5.'

'Never fear,' said Southern Failway, 'Passengers for Lower Arse-End via Nowhere, please go to Platform 5.'

'Never fear,' said Southern Failway, 'Passengers for Lower Arse-End via Nowhere, please go to Platform 5.'

'Never fear,' said Southern Failway, 'Passengers for Lower Arse-End via Nowhere, please go to Platform 5.'

'Never fear,' said Southern Failway, 'Passengers for Lower Arse-End via Nowhere, please go to Platform 5.'

A VERY BRITISH murmur and gentle shuffling ran through the crowd as headlights came into view - Train 6 is arriving to whisk us all to London Bridge and finally free us from the torment of the repeated announcements about that bloody train to Lower Arse-End! A second VERY BRITISH murmur then ran through the crowd as it turned out that Train 6 was only two carriages long and was already full to bursting.

Then, behold, a RANDOM OVERGROUND* train pulled into Platform 3. Feeling the kind of smugness that can only come from having a folding bike in the midst of a cold, wet and windy train fail, I hopped aboard and alighted at Surrey Quays, and had a very pleasant 3.5 mile Bromptoneer to my office, arriving with just enough time to have a cup of coffee and a peruse of my book before work started.



* If a train could have a facial expression, it would have been wearing that one you get when you are going to meet a friend at a pub that you are unfamiliar with... and instead of the quiet one you were expecting, you've walked into the one with the same name but a block further away - crammed with football enthusiasts braying at the TV and each other in a sweaty, drunken, terrifying orgy of bad breath and shaved heads.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 25 February, 2015, 03:06:17 pm
That ^^^^ has a POTD look about it :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Otto on 25 February, 2015, 03:10:37 pm
I feel your pain I have stopped commuting with the bike even the folder at the moment. London Bridge and Southern Rail are simply to incompetent and too much trouble.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 25 February, 2015, 05:04:31 pm
Punctured. Was in a really shit mood due to stuff when it happened. Considered doing a basil fawlty / car thrashing bit but settled down to change it.  The enforced break, the mending of something and then resuming was really good actually. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 25 February, 2015, 05:28:18 pm
Jacomus, that sounds positively Tatiesque...

http://youtu.be/0n0g8S3aA0o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 25 February, 2015, 07:43:50 pm
Overheated today.  OK it wasn't exactly warm, but fairly mild and though I removed my full gloves, I couldn't be bothered to take my fabric windproof jacket off - so just gently simmered until I arrived at work.

On the way I encountered a nice man in a small HGV who, saw me approaching the the mini rab to the right, but pulled out on me anyway...  For which I thanked him, almost without a hint of sarcasm.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 26 February, 2015, 09:58:56 am
Hurrah! WVM slows and flashes his lihts to allow me to turn right.  Experience faithlift :thumbsup:

Bah! Fuck-haired cock in massive 4x4 decides that waiting for cyclist approaching from his front to pass before pulling out of parking space is beneath him.  But his pointless prunkwagen has four rings on the grille so expecting anything else was frankly silly of me.  Faith in human nature back to recumbent trike seat level :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steve GT on 26 February, 2015, 10:17:37 am
The Copenhagen bike lanes are always salted / gritted when the temperature drops close to 0 deg C, but they do not maintain the bike lanes through the Nature reserve, which forms a 3rd of my journey.
I have been caught out before when the whole bike lane just freezes and turns into black ice, but it was a nice clear evening, so a lovely pre-dawn ride through the Nature reserve on frost covered bike lanes made a nice start to the day. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 26 February, 2015, 10:44:39 am
Bah !  My left pedal broke. I suffered exactly the same failure with this model of pedal about three years ago. The simple Shimano double sided SPDs, the metal bit simply splits in two (and yes, I know it's all metal bits, but I'm at work and can't think of how to describe it without spending forever - if I can be arsed I might photo it later). It means one side is out of action.

Cunningly, being a squirrel, I'm sure I didn't throw the last pedal away so I may be able to cannibalise.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jsabine on 26 February, 2015, 10:49:14 am
Quote from: hatler on 26 February, 2015, 10:44:39 am
Bah !  My left pedal broke. I suffered exactly the same failure with this model of pedal about three years ago. The simple Shimano double sided SPDs, the metal bit simply splits in two (and yes, I know it's all metal bits, but I'm at work and can't think of how to describe it without spending forever - if I can be arsed I might photo it later). It means one side is out of action.

The shaped plate that forms the fixed part of the cleat retention mechanism?

Quote
Cunningly, being a squirrel, I'm sure I didn't throw the last pedal away so I may be able to cannibalise.

Having tried to perform the same operation on non-Shimano SPDs, beware of pingfuckits cunningly concealed by the plate. Once they've pinged, IME they won't unping. (At least, not without more SWEARINESS than I had readily to hand.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 26 February, 2015, 12:25:18 pm
I think you have it. Thank you for that and the subsequent advice. I don't really tolerate pinfuckitness too well (especially not in my currently overstuffed garage), so the merest hint of a ping will definitely result in new pedal purchase.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jsabine on 26 February, 2015, 01:52:28 pm
I *think* (it was several years ago) that the ping was probably caused by me poking at the innards rather than simply by removing the plate, and they weren't Shimano pedals anyway, so don't be put off ...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 26 February, 2015, 02:10:40 pm
PResumably backing the tension all the way off before removing the plate will reduce the ping, if not the fuckit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 26 February, 2015, 02:21:14 pm
I've had the plate off a not-Shimano SPD before. The tricky bit was getting all the accumulated crud out of the head of the fixing screws.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 26 February, 2015, 04:34:37 pm
Quote from: TimO on 27 January, 2015, 09:23:28 am
... I did notice that where the Clapham Common cycle path rejoins the road, and I cross Clapham Common North Side onto Cedars Road, someone had managed to hit the traffic light (https://goo.gl/maps/WemwC) with quite some violence, it was bent over by more than 45° [1].  The pedestrian light on the far side also appeared to have failed, presumably due some wiring problem as a consequence of that collision.  I had to watch the countdown on the other side of the junction! ...

This was replaced earlier this week, so they got around to it in just under a month.  If it had been the car lights out of order, I've no doubt it would have been sorted in a day or two, but presumably pedestrians don't count as important.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 26 February, 2015, 06:20:08 pm
Several odd things on last night's commute:

Encountered the first ever driver sticking to the 20mph limit in central London - to much consternation and confusion of the other road users around him. The biggest surprise of all was that it was an Addison Lee vehicle!

On the way out of Peterborough I looked down to find I was just about to be hit on the leg by the front corner of a car. I jinked out of the way as it crept past slightly faster than me and well inside the cycle lane. It was a large, executive car with an L-plate on the front, but the only occupants were the driver and a small child in a childseat. It was the closest I've ever been passed without being hit. It then continued slowly and close to the kerb, almost came to a standstill on approaching a road island, and didn't speed up on hitting the 50 limit.

Then, almost home, I went through a red light (not my normal behaviour, but I know it does not detect bikes, I've sat at that light for several minutes before, then had to dismount so the car behind could move forward and trigger it to change to green). The car behind me also went through on red. And the car behind that. Then two more - FOUR cars blatantly through on red.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 27 February, 2015, 09:24:45 am
Last night was good, aside from an Exciting Moment.

Riding to Surrey Quays, I found myself in a pass-and-re-pass convoy with a chap on a Boris Bike and a woman on a very nice hardtail MTB. I was the fastest rider on open bits and the slowest when filtering, so we kept doing the overtaking dance, with the MTB as the middle speed in both filtering and open road. Quite an Exciting Moment when MTB pulls out to pass BB, and I have pulled out to pass MTB. BB slams on the brakes and swerves right, MTB does the same and I do the same! BB explained at the next TLs that he thought a sight-impaired pedestrian was just about to step into the road and panicked.

I had to go to Anerley and get out, riding up to Crystal Palace to collect keys from the estate agent and got defeated about 2/3 of the way up Anerley Road hill when I ground to a halt wishing for more gears! https://goo.gl/maps/01tM0


Not much to report this morning, aside from very cold ears!

Note to self: There is a difference between Safe Following Distance = You can stop without hitting the vehicle in front, and Safe Comfortable Following Distance = You have enough time and distance to decide whether to change course, or to stop without hitting the vehicle in front. Usually I'm very good at holding SCFD, but this morning I got complacent following a bus and was forced to stop hard instead of smoothly go around, or stop gently.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 27 February, 2015, 10:06:29 am
Long trousers this morning for the first time this week - I didn't want my knees dying of hypothermia. At -2 it was 12 deg colder than yesterday!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 27 February, 2015, 11:55:17 am
Quote from: Jacomus on 27 February, 2015, 09:24:45 am
I had to go to Anerley and get out, riding up to Crystal Palace to collect keys from the estate agent and got defeated about 2/3 of the way up Anerley Road hill when I ground to a halt wishing for more gears! https://goo.gl/maps/01tM0

That ^^^^ is one reason why Miss von Brandenburg doesn't cycle much these days...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 27 February, 2015, 01:36:48 pm
Quote from: Jacomus on 27 February, 2015, 09:24:45 am
BB slams on the brakes

 :o

I didn't know they could do that...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 27 February, 2015, 01:43:59 pm
Quote from: Kim on 27 February, 2015, 01:36:48 pm
Quote from: Jacomus on 27 February, 2015, 09:24:45 am
BB slams on the brakes

 :o

I didn't know they could do that...

Perhaps the guy had incredibly strong hands, or had an unusually well fettled BB, but that thing stopped  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 27 February, 2015, 04:17:17 pm
Quote from: Jacomus on 27 February, 2015, 09:24:45 am
<snip>

I had to go to Anerley and get out, riding up to Crystal Palace to collect keys from the estate agent and got defeated about 2/3 of the way up Anerley Road hill when I ground to a halt wishing for more gears! https://goo.gl/maps/01tM0

<snip>
Assuming you were on the Brompton, I admire your optimism at even attempting Anerley Hill. I haven't been up that since I started riding fixed (in 2012) and as a result become fitter - but I remember my eyes being out on stalks when I went up it on gears.
So- you've moved into my neck of the woods then? Welcome. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 27 February, 2015, 11:53:57 pm
I held the Anerley Strava KOM for a couple of years. On more than one occasion while commuting I've vomited on reaching the top - probably a symptom of doing too much too soon as I used to start on the hill as soon as I left my front door.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jakob W on 28 February, 2015, 10:00:56 am
Full and frank discussion with a cabbie yesterday evening after he almost left-hooked me in his people-carrier thingy; I refrained from using particularly earthy language, but limited myself to emphasising the importance of doing all three of mirror, signal, manoeuvre in that particular order...

Took the slow quiet route home after that, to bimble along in the sunshine.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 01 March, 2015, 05:02:49 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 27 February, 2015, 04:17:17 pm
Quote from: Jacomus on 27 February, 2015, 09:24:45 am
<snip>

I had to go to Anerley and get out, riding up to Crystal Palace to collect keys from the estate agent and got defeated about 2/3 of the way up Anerley Road hill when I ground to a halt wishing for more gears! https://goo.gl/maps/01tM0

<snip>
Assuming you were on the Brompton, I admire your optimism at even attempting Anerley Hill. I haven't been up that since I started riding fixed (in 2012) and as a result become fitter - but I remember my eyes being out on stalks when I went up it on gears.
So- you've moved into my neck of the woods then? Welcome. :)

I can do it on my Brompton, but I do cheat by having six gears on the thing. (I used to live at near the bottom of Anerley Hill.) My chunky old commuting 'mountain' bike can also make it, though I confess most mornings I bottled it and went through the park and out the other side and down Fountain Drive. Fountain Drive, the other way, is a bit more of a grind since it climbs steadily for quite a while and then really kicks off at the end, and the roundabout at the top is hellish (need to cross three lanes to get into position for Crystal Palace Parade, a hill start, and unsympathetic drivers who don't give way). As I now live in the cusp of the North Downs, I do miss the descent down Anerley Hill, which was always supreme fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 02 March, 2015, 08:41:42 am
I had to drive today.

On Friday I took one of the schools new hand cycles home to let he workshop dudes give it the once over. What normally takes 25-30 minutes took me an 1hr 5 minutes :o My already immense respect for Alex Zanardi went up by a several of magnitudes. Slight inclines were taken slowly and with difficulty at first but, I will put my hands up and confess, the two slight rises in the last third of my ride were taken with me pushing the steed. My arms were shot. My shoulders didn't stop aching till this morning.

Acknowledging that Quarry Wood Road was never going to get ridden up this morning, coupled with a stinking cold doing its worst over the weekend meant I decided the steed went back to school by car :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 02 March, 2015, 09:57:18 am
Heavy legs this morning took the shine off a very easy ride - minimal and well behaved traffic, not much wind to speak of and gracious traffic lights!

I covered the 3.5 miles in 20 minutes dead-on so, despite struggling with heavy legs, I actually made very good time indeed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 02 March, 2015, 11:02:33 am
Quote from: Jacomus on 25 February, 2015, 12:32:49 pm
The train before mine broke down in the platform this morning.

Southern Failway sprang into action...

My wife reminded me, but she tried to do the meet-the-manager thing for Southern at London Bridge twice recently (it's more a mini-riot these days) that for the first he was 'delayed' and the second was 'cancelled.' You can't make it up.

According the platform guy I was talking to, the drivers aren't doing overtime at the moment, so trains are being cancelled left, right, and centre 'because of a shortage of train crew' (of which there's only one, the driver). But he's not supposed to tell anyone this.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 02 March, 2015, 05:41:59 pm
Brompton - train - brompton commute this morning.

On the Stroud, Cheltenham train I got to sit in first class, which was nice. There's no luggage racks in the little commuter trains so I stand in the end vestibule with the brommie out of the way really, hadn't noticed I was at the first class end till the ticket inspector said I could sit in first and the bike would probably fit under the table.

On the slightly more busy Cheltenham to mordor train, I got the joy of sharing a seat with a chap who was attempting to spread his legs so wide they were about to flip behind him, that combined with business folks with laptops sitting in the aisle seat and blocking the window one with their bags meant I went and stood in the far more spacious vestibule. (Seriously if you are wearing a pink tie, and are working during your commute, which you probably aint being paid for you are not important you are an idiot).

The ride into the office was quite peaceful after that.

D.


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 03 March, 2015, 09:30:13 am
Quote from: davelodwig on 02 March, 2015, 05:41:59 pm
Brompton - train - brompton commute this morning.

On the Stroud, Cheltenham train I got to sit in first class, which was nice. There's no luggage racks in the little commuter trains so I stand in the end vestibule with the brommie out of the way really, hadn't noticed I was at the first class end till the ticket inspector said I could sit in first and the bike would probably fit under the table.

On the slightly more busy Cheltenham to mordor train, I got the joy of sharing a seat with a chap who was attempting to spread his legs so wide they were about to flip behind him, that combined with business folks with laptops sitting in the aisle seat and blocking the window one with their bags meant I went and stood in the far more spacious vestibule. (Seriously if you are wearing a pink tie, and are working during your commute, which you probably aint being paid for you are not important you are an idiot).

The ride into the office was quite peaceful after that.

D.

Ahh yes - Manspreading http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manspreading

I thought that I was going to be in for a miserable ride this morning, as it was pouring down on my way to the station. However, by the time the train got the Surrey Quays, it became obvious that the rain hadn't made it that far yet - dry and cold, but with a fair headwind.

A nice ride all in all, though I was passed (very considerately) by two Gordon Group tippers, which made me think of the recent death of a cyclist near Victoria (cyclist and left turning Gordon tipper)  :(  Gordon seem to be 'one of the good guys' when it comes to safety too, I remember reading something about their drivers have to go on a CTUK course and all their trucks are fitted with CCTV. I can't decide if that makes it worse, better or nothing at all. Perhaps it's the feeling of inevitability about it that is so sad. I dunno. RIP rider.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 03 March, 2015, 10:45:27 am
I had a nice run in this morning, now it is much lighter. The wind had even subsided and the torrential rain had stopped.

Some lemon on a mountain bike skipped the lights coming into Newport and he appeared to go really close on purpose. Oh well, when he gets hit by a car running through the lights  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 03 March, 2015, 11:39:54 am
Ran this morning, though cut short because of an expected phone call that never happened. Then in again on the Brompton, it's getting easier I practically flew up brays lane until the taxi decided to over take and got stuck.

Brays lane is a regular road, however it's outside a school with no car park so the staff park down both sides reducing it to a single carriageway with irregular passing places, usually I just plod up the hill as there is enough space for me to keep going. However occasionally an idiot decides it's me causing the hold up overtakes forgetting the car coming the other way and get's stuck. I usually ride on the pavement, so I don't get reversed over and point and laugh.

I was once accused by a lady of holding up the traffic (from the window of her car natch), and I apologised for parking my 100 cars on the road and causing her delay, she looked very confused.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 03 March, 2015, 11:42:07 am
Quote from: davelodwig on 03 March, 2015, 11:39:54 am
Ran this morning, though cut short because of an expected phone call that never happened. Then in again on the Brompton, it's getting easier I practically flew up brays lane until the taxi decided to over take and got stuck.

Brays lane is a regular road, however it's outside a school with no car park so the staff park down both sides reducing it to a single carriageway with irregular passing places, usually I just plod up the hill as there is enough space for me to keep going. However occasionally an idiot decides it's me causing the hold up overtakes forgetting the car coming the other way and get's stuck. I usually ride on the pavement, so I don't get reversed over and point and laugh.

I was once accused by a lady of holding up the traffic (from the window of her car natch), and I apologised for parking my 100 cars on the road and causing her delay, she looked very confused.

 ;D ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 03 March, 2015, 01:30:48 pm
Quote from: Jacomus on 03 March, 2015, 09:30:13 am
Ahh yes - Manspreading http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manspreading

I found it more than a little ironic that I spent the Bechdel Test panel at last week's con sandwiched between two manspreaders.   :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 04 March, 2015, 09:16:30 am
Shake down ride for the Van Nic prior to Saturdays Audax. 10% quicker than the fixie which didn't quite make up for the time to pump up both tyres and refit the headlight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 04 March, 2015, 11:08:08 am
Ugh, between last night and this morning's commute, I racked up three close shaves.

1. Moron in a Mondeo >:( I was in a kind of weak-primary for a pinch point, and MiaM decided that there was enough room to get past. Needless to say that there was only enough room because I took evasive action just before I would have entered a sumo contest against 1.5 tons of metal.

2. Tour de Commute Cyclist >:( I was turning right onto London Bridge, when TdCC made a spirited pass on my left. What turned it from simply worthy of a raised eyebrow and a rustle of my metaphorical newspaper, into a brown moment, was his swerve from my left to my right, in order to overtake the cyclist infront of me. Chances are good that, if I hadn't covered my brakes when he started passing on my left, I'd not have braked in time to avoid his rear wheel collecting my front.

3. J B Riney Tipper Driver >:( Yes you, in one of their new Hino's with the greedy boards. I was riding in the left tyre track, your nearside wheels when you passed me were in the right tyre track of the same lane. That's Un-fucking-comfortably Close. Especially when I note that you are indicating left. The road is two lanes wide at this point and considering we were the only vehicles on it, why the hell couldn't you have pulled out properly?! I really wish I'd managed to note the registration.


ETA: Oops! Forgot to add that the weather was Most Enjoyable :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 04 March, 2015, 12:32:54 pm
Chap in a MX-5 happily texting on his mobile at the TLs and as he pulls away.  I tried to get his attention (via his rear view mirror) but he was oblivious...

I do the OK cycle track between Abingdon & Drayton, but found myself cycling next to a fellow cyclist who was on the road (quite busy) - I wondered what the drivers were thinking, and perhaps whether I should actually just 'road it' on this stretch.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 04 March, 2015, 12:50:38 pm
What's the betting that tomorrow you'll meet him when you're on the road and he's on the path?  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 04 March, 2015, 01:54:14 pm
Quote from: hatler on 26 February, 2015, 10:44:39 am
Bah !  My left pedal broke. I suffered exactly the same failure with this model of pedal about three years ago. The simple Shimano double sided SPDs, the metal bit simply splits in two (and yes, I know it's all metal bits, but I'm at work and can't think of how to describe it without spending forever - if I can be arsed I might photo it later). It means one side is out of action.

Cunningly, being a squirrel, I'm sure I didn't throw the last pedal away so I may be able to cannibalise.

And Bingo !!  Found the old pair of pedals in the bits bin and got the good bit off and fixed it to the current pedal. Only one slight pingfuckit moment, but the adjusting screw's escape attempt was mildly pathetic and it flopped to the ground only 6" from where it had set off. Re-assembly wasn't completely straightforward. My Snap-on lookalike screwdrivers are past their best (after about 25 years) and you can't get the screw retaining the new bit in place without first removing the plate which is held in place by three screws. Once I'd worked all that out it was plain sailing. I wonder what two of those shaped plates retail for ?

And whilst I was at it the bike got a clean and I cleared another box of junk from the garage (left over from ex-father's garage). Only about 10 to go !!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 04 March, 2015, 03:40:03 pm
[assuming that 'commute' means 'daily utility journey']

I was saluted in a 'chapeau madame' style-ee by a young person (~10-12yr old?) as he waited to cross the road astride his BMX and I raced through the green lights.

I am teh awsum and a rôle modelle for the yoofs of BSE.  :smug:

Or he had some kind of unfortunate twitch.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 04 March, 2015, 06:58:55 pm
Chapeau indeed, fboab.

Tonight I made myself, twice no less, one of 'those bloody cyclists always going through red lights'.

The first, I Amber Gambled to try and put some space (and a handy bus) between me and the Dick inna Discovery, who had nearly run me over as we set off from a junction. The second, I RLJed. A cyclist was either enjoying a close up view of my posterior or, more likely, he was enjoying hole I was pushing in the headwind. The lights changed and I would have stopped if I was clear behind, but I didn't fancy testing his reaction time and brake maintenance.

I'm working on the no brakes game*, and its going very well in the most part. I would say that it's definitely making me smoother and more predictable, probably safer - I feel as though the count of unexpected incidents has dropped.


* I think it has an actual name, but I can't think of it. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 05 March, 2015, 10:45:47 am
This.

(http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t299/jacomus-rides-Gen/IMG_20150305_074140_zps21ef9f22.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 05 March, 2015, 11:51:13 am
This. From the opposite direction....
(https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8568/16103097903_a9fa237038_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/qwYzZ2)IMG_0627 (https://flic.kr/p/qwYzZ2) by jurekb (https://www.flickr.com/people/54464148@N00/), on Flickr

EDIT: To the uninitiated, that's The Shard being zapped by The Sun (the hot one, not the paper one) about 5 minutes before I forumite spotted Pippa. (https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=5506.msg1824203#msg1824203)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 05 March, 2015, 07:44:26 pm
In descending order of importance:
- First (outside) lambs of the year.  Poulton Fields. 
- First 15 plate on a car.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 09 March, 2015, 05:19:54 pm
Bloody hell, Jurek, that's intense! I've not seen it catch the sun like that before.

On Sunday, I rode from Seven Sisters to London Bridge - going up the A10 towards Stoke Newington was hard work on the Brommie. It was an otherwise very pleasant ride... with one little exception.

I was here https://goo.gl/maps/APgFQ

Note, if you will, that the two rightmost lanes are right turn only lanes. I was trundling up to the lights in the leftmost-right turn lane, as you would. Firstly, the straight on lights went green, and I was nearly taken out by 2 white vans making a dash for it using the right turn lane to skip the queue. The first one rattled me, and I actually moved 'out of the way' in time for the second one. I was now in the ASL in front of a white Audi coupe.

This is where my error came.

I was still rattled by the 2 close shaves and a succession of cars speeding through that lane to go straight ahead, and hadn't got my brain back in gear properly when the right turn lights went green. I forgot all about there being 2 right turn lanes and set off, aiming to take a wide line and let Mr Audi pass me in the corner. Some skidmark took the corner at high speed, from the left of the two lanes, and cut across in front of me. I emergency stopped and luckily Mr Audi was paying attention behind me. Inches separated me from this turning car. Mr Audi looked horrified and checked if I was OK before we continued. I then spotted Mr Skidmark undertake a left turning bus by mounting the kerb and roar off down a side road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 09 March, 2015, 07:18:46 pm
Gears.
Yes. Gears - which I haven't ridden since some time before last Christmas.
Actually, I went out on gears yesterday. It felt like I was on a stolen bike / bike for the first time.
Today was better.
Marginally.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 10 March, 2015, 09:47:26 am
Today is best exemplified by this smiley:  ::-)

Black cabbie not paying attention rolls into the black cab in front, with a suitable crunching noise.

Was shaved by an RLJer on my nearside. Spent the next few traffic lights in the classic overtake-RLJ-overtake-RLJ cycle until she turned off.

Saw far too much butt crack on display by a guy onna MTB, who I managed to overtake eventually on London Bridge.

A cyclist darts up the inside of a left turning artic. Thanks the driver for stopping mid-turn and not killing him by flipping the bird.

Black cabbie beeps at me for taking the lane in the final 30 meters roll towards a set of red lights.

A Prat-inna-Pious is so concerned about the environment that he wont spare the extra few feet that would be added to his journey in order to give me room.

Stiff headwind + Brommie Standard Range gears = neither 1 or 2 was quite right.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 10 March, 2015, 09:48:49 am
Back on Kaffy this morning, as she is back running again from a twisted chain 6weeks ago. Bike ran smooth as, shame about my lead legs though, which didnt feel ok until I got to Newport about 2miles from work!

Hopefully the trip home will be easier  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 10 March, 2015, 12:40:05 pm
First bike commute since my rather nasty off last year. Took the most direct route cos I was a bit pushed for time and loved every minute  :thumbsup:

Tonight it's the long way home  ;D ;D

It's good to be back
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 10 March, 2015, 12:47:37 pm
Huzzah !!  How long an outage was that ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 10 March, 2015, 01:22:09 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 10 March, 2015, 12:40:05 pm
First bike commute since my rather nasty off last year. Took the most direct route cos I was a bit pushed for time and loved every minute  :thumbsup:

Tonight it's the long way home  ;D ;D

It's good to be back

 :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 10 March, 2015, 01:41:31 pm
Quote from: hatler on 10 March, 2015, 12:47:37 pm
Huzzah !!  How long an outage was that ?

14 months. Although, I was back on the bike by the late summer, I just didn't have anywhere to commute to until recently.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 10 March, 2015, 02:19:21 pm
That's a double "HUZZAH !!" then.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 10 March, 2015, 06:36:34 pm
Very slowly and gingerly round the corner where I came off yesterday on a non-commute ride.  I can't for the life of me see why the front wheel just suddenly disappeared.  I had assumed diesel, but no real sign of that tonight.  Very odd.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 10 March, 2015, 06:47:29 pm
Quote from: Basil on 10 March, 2015, 06:36:34 pm
Very slowly and gingerly round the corner where I came off yesterday on a non-commute ride.  I can't for the life of me see why the front wheel just suddenly disappeared.  I had assumed diesel, but no real sign of that tonight.  Very odd.

I also treated that general area with extreme caution, but couldn't see anything other than a greatly diminished big puddle for soaking left-turners out of Bournbrook Road onto Bristol Road, and the usual loose gravel and door-zone crater at the junction of Bournbrook Road and Bournbrook Road.

Related observation:  Not content with restricting the Bristol Road southbound to a single lane, they've plonked some excruciatingly slow temporary traffic lights halfway down Oakfield Road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 10 March, 2015, 08:08:16 pm
Those lights worked really well for me tonight.  Straight up the wrong side of the road on Eastern past the queue, lights changed just as I got to the front, right onto Oakfield.  No delay at all.   :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 10 March, 2015, 08:10:42 pm
Git.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 11 March, 2015, 06:44:16 am
Bloody bumhats! I adjusted my saddle last night, ensuring it was level by using a spirit level. Seems I was more sleep deprived than I thought - I took the level along the centerline of the saddle. Which has a groove. D'oh! On the quick 2 minute ride to the station, I can already tell my perfectly level saddle is nose down. The next 20-ish minute ride will demonstrate just how much of a cock up I've made!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 11 March, 2015, 07:48:13 am
'Cock down', surely.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 11 March, 2015, 09:49:07 am
Quote from: hatler on 11 March, 2015, 07:48:13 am
'Cock down', surely.

 ;D

Well, it was bad, but not quite as bad as I'd expected. I've now made a 'get me home' adjustment, which will make things more comfortable for this evening's commute.

Not much to report from the ride otherwise. I'd been hoping that something would catch my eye to photograph, but nothing did.

I noted that a Muckit tipper had FSVO-Good warning sticker on rear nearside. "CAUTION - Mind the blind spot" and a diagram of where the blindspot is.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 11 March, 2015, 11:14:43 am
Hardly broke a sweat climbing up Brays road this morning, the effect of only having 3 gears I guess I've just got to get on with it and pedal. 

Am uploading my data to strava mostly cos it's linked to my dieting app and therefore takes a slightly better stab in the dark at calorie burn. Will need to start adding some loops to the commute soon just to make it take a similar time as when I started back on trains and bike 3 weeks ago.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 11 March, 2015, 07:25:40 pm
On today's commute (in the motor) I spied a family enroute to school all a velo.  Young Chlid 1, closely followed by Young Child 2,  on a cycle path. Closely followed by (presumed) Mother, with Young Child 3 on one of those seats that fit on the cross bar and Young Child 4 on the standard fit rack mounted child seat.  Most excellent.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 11 March, 2015, 07:45:47 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 11 March, 2015, 07:25:40 pm
with Young Child 3 on one of those seats that fit on the cross bar and Young Child 4 on the standard fit rack mounted child seat.  Most excellent.

That must require some fairly high-precision mounting and dismounting footwork.  Remembering not to kick the stoker in the face is one thing, but when there's another one at the front...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jsabine on 11 March, 2015, 08:52:28 pm
Quote from: Kim on 11 March, 2015, 07:45:47 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 11 March, 2015, 07:25:40 pm
with Young Child 3 on one of those seats that fit on the cross bar and Young Child 4 on the standard fit rack mounted child seat.  Most excellent.

That must require some fairly high-precision mounting and dismounting footwork.  Remembering not to kick the stoker in the face is one thing, but when there's another one at the front...

Would you put YC4 in the seat, straddle the bike, then pick up YC3 to put them in the front?

Awkward lift though, I guess. And difficult to balance the bike with YC4 potentially wriggling about. Hmm. Probably not then.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 12 March, 2015, 11:01:05 am
First ride this week due to reasons lurgy.

My lungs and I had a bit of a falling out :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 12 March, 2015, 02:28:00 pm
Did another twelve mile loop again today, headwind on the way back. About halfway round and I get the twat-pass, which leaves me no room to avoid the sharp-edged pothole.

The rear tube has two quarter-inch slashes in it from the snakebite by the rim. No spare tube. I am resigned to a long patching session when along comes Richard, a retired gent on a road bike, from Scotland by his accent but living in Horley. Only a short valve stem on his spare tube, but he held the pump head for me while I got just enough air in to make the ride back  possible. Wouldn't take anything for the tube.

Richard, I know you look in here, so ta!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 12 March, 2015, 08:03:40 pm
Poo! Urr! Gosh!  It is slurry time!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 13 March, 2015, 09:06:18 am
Quote from: TheLurker on 12 March, 2015, 08:03:40 pm
Poo! Urr! Gosh!  It is slurry time!

First ride of the week, and yes the local farmer has spread slurry on the road as well as his field.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 13 March, 2015, 09:25:51 am
First commute in that involved constant solid rain for quite a while.  Wasn't looking forward to it as I glumley gazed over my coffee mug.
Actually, once you're going, it's not really that bad, is it?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 13 March, 2015, 09:41:46 am
Dunno about that Basil, I thought it was thoroughly bloody miserable, this could have something to do with the laundry based clothing decisions I made this morning.......brrrrrrr
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 13 March, 2015, 09:51:25 am
On a wet dank miserable day it's
Quote from: Basil on 13 March, 2015, 09:25:51 am
First commute in that involved constant solid rain for quite a while.  Wasn't looking forward to it as I glumley gazed over my coffee mug.
Actually, once you're going, it's not really that bad, is it?
On a wet dank and miserable day it's always infinitely better the moment you step out of the front door.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 13 March, 2015, 10:19:40 am
Quote from: Steph on 12 March, 2015, 02:28:00 pm
Did another twelve mile loop again today, headwind on the way back. About halfway round and I get the twat-pass, which leaves me no room to avoid the sharp-edged pothole.

The rear tube has two quarter-inch slashes in it from the snakebite by the rim. No spare tube. I am resigned to a long patching session when along comes Richard, a retired gent on a road bike, from Scotland by his accent but living in Horley. Only a short valve stem on his spare tube, but he held the pump head for me while I got just enough air in to make the ride back  possible. Wouldn't take anything for the tube.

Richard, I know you look in here, so ta!

Nice one Richard  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 13 March, 2015, 03:46:37 pm
Nice and easy ride this morning, although with nearly-serious error.

Yesterday I had a nearly-migraine and slept badly as a result. When I started riding this morning, I had a feeling that my brain wasn't fully switched on but cracked on normally. Later in the ride, that feeling was proved to be fact.

Approaching E&C, there was a bus in the stop just as in this streetview https://goo.gl/maps/onFyb

There was a lorry, who'd earlier passed me very professionally, sat where the blue car is in that image. I *swear* that I watched the traffic lights turn red as I approached the back of the bus and lorry, and decided to filter between the two. The lights changed just as I committed to the gap and the lorry started to move. The bus indicated right to pull away, so I didn't dare brake as I was already near the front. Thankfully the lorry driver braked, and I squeaked through the gap.

I really thought I was fucked for a second - time dilation, adrenaline dump, the whole works. :-\

Definitely a very solid reminder to pay attention to how I'm feeling, and adjust my behavior accordingly. I'm still puzzled by the traffic lights - obviously I got it wrong and didn't see them change to red, but I've no idea how that happened! Also, why in the hell did I take the gap? I wouldn't normally have done it, normally I'd have tucked in behind the lorry - I even thought to myself 'that's a bad plan' as I lined up for it.

Might take the train from London Bridge tonight, 1.5 miles instead of 5.5.  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 16 March, 2015, 09:54:39 am
Very nice ride in, even despite getting shaved by a WVM and being rained on :thumbsup:

Next on the purchase list - RainLegs!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 16 March, 2015, 10:42:05 am
Rainlegs were deployed today in Crofton Park.
It was The Right Thing To Have Done.

Rain jackets with hoods.
Anybody got one with hood that lends itself to cycling?
Unlike the Rapha one I picked up in their sale - the blurb went on epically, as to how much design had gone into their hood, its cut, the angles, blather blather....
I got sucked in.
It doesn't work. The peak slides down so far over my nose that I need to winch my head backwards to see.
Rear vision? I hear you ask
A good view of the inside of the hood when I turn my head to look behind me.
Adjustment strings don't seem to make a difference.
Meh!
Wet head it was to be.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 16 March, 2015, 10:51:50 am
slightly damp this morning, the rain was very light and most of the cars weren't using their wipers.

First day back on ordinary tyres as the winter studs have been removed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Otto on 16 March, 2015, 11:04:37 am
Quote from: Jurek on 16 March, 2015, 10:42:05 am
Rainlegs were deployed today in Crofton Park.
It was The Right Thing To Have Done.

Rain jackets with hoods.
Anybody got one with hood that lends itself to cycling?
Unlike the Rapha one I picked up in their sale - the blurb went on epically, as to how much design had gone into their hood, its cut, the angles, blather blather....
I got sucked in.
It doesn't work. The peak slides down so far over my nose that I need to winch my head backwards to see.
Rear vision? I hear you ask
A good view of the inside of the hood when I turn my head to look behind me.
Adjustment strings don't seem to make a difference.
Meh!
Wet head it was to be.

I've got a Carradice Dux Back cape, the cape is good but the hood is rubbish pointed and ill fitting
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 16 March, 2015, 11:20:56 am
Strangely physically tired and weak this morning.  A bit odd, as I didn’t get up until 10:30 on Sunday and was back in bed by 19:30.  And only cycled 9 miles between those two times.
I expect I’m dying, or something.
Bugger!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jakob W on 16 March, 2015, 12:32:31 pm
I can second the Carradice Duxback - keeps me mostly dry and avoids that boil-in-the bag feeling. Ironically it's a better fit on the drop-bar bike than the Dutch bike - at 6'5" I find the latter's upright position means that sometimes rain sneaks through underneath and gives me damp knees, though this is more of a problem in persistent drizzle than when it's really chucking it down. I tend not to wear the hood up, but then I'm not a huge fan of hoods in general when cycling - I don't like the limited peripheral vision. I find it best under a lid, which means it turns with you when you look, but usually I just wear my nice wool cycling cap and accept I'll get a bit damp.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 16 March, 2015, 12:39:43 pm
I recently picked up a Swrve Milwaukee jacket with a hood, and it seems to do a pretty good job of turning with my head, partly because the lining has a tendency to catch on my short hair but also because of clever angles and stuff.

I set off just as the rain was starting (7.10) and got soaked and frozen, arriving at work as the rain petered out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Otto on 16 March, 2015, 12:49:46 pm
Quote from: Jakob W on 16 March, 2015, 12:32:31 pm
I can second the Carradice Duxback - keeps me mostly dry and avoids that boil-in-the bag feeling. Ironically it's a better fit on the drop-bar bike than the Dutch bike - at 6'5" I find the latter's upright position means that sometimes rain sneaks through underneath and gives me damp knees, though this is more of a problem in persistent drizzle than when it's really chucking it down. I tend not to wear the hood up, but then I'm not a huge fan of hoods in general when cycling - I don't like the limited peripheral vision. I find it best under a lid, which means it turns with you when you look, but usually I just wear my nice wool cycling cap and accept I'll get a bit damp.

One thing I did notice... in really heavy rain my hands got wet as the rain wicked through the stiches on the wrist stras
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 16 March, 2015, 02:36:02 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 16 March, 2015, 10:42:05 am
Rain jackets with hoods.
Anybody got one with hood that lends itself to cycling?

I've got an Altura Night Vision Evo with the optional hood, which seems like it's been designed so that cycling in it might not end in complete disaster.  I haven't actually tried riding in it yet, though - I only really wanted the hood so that when I'm touring I have something sensible to keep my hair dry between tent and toilet block / pub.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jsabine on 16 March, 2015, 04:07:12 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 16 March, 2015, 10:42:05 am
Rain jackets with hoods.
Anybody got one with hood that lends itself to cycling?
Unlike the Rapha one I picked up in their sale - the blurb went on epically, as to how much design had gone into their hood, its cut, the angles, blather blather....
I got sucked in.
It doesn't work. The peak slides down so far over my nose that I need to winch my head backwards to see.
Rear vision? I hear you ask
A good view of the inside of the hood when I turn my head to look behind me.
Adjustment strings don't seem to make a difference.
Meh!
Wet head it was to be.

Sounds like it's designed to be worn over a helmet (dunno if you were doing) - don't suppose there's a volume reducer at the back?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 16 March, 2015, 04:45:54 pm
Quote from: jsabine on 16 March, 2015, 04:07:12 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 16 March, 2015, 10:42:05 am
Rain jackets with hoods.
Anybody got one with hood that lends itself to cycling?
Unlike the Rapha one I picked up in their sale - the blurb went on epically, as to how much design had gone into their hood, its cut, the angles, blather blather....
I got sucked in.
It doesn't work. The peak slides down so far over my nose that I need to winch my head backwards to see.
Rear vision? I hear you ask
A good view of the inside of the hood when I turn my head to look behind me.
Adjustment strings don't seem to make a difference.
Meh!
Wet head it was to be.

Sounds like it's designed to be worn over a helmet (dunno if you were doing) - don't suppose there's a volume reducer at the back?

There's not a volume reducer at the back.
But now that I'm back on dry land, I have found that there are more things to be done with the adjustment strings.
I shall experiment accordingly.
This will probably best be done when it isn't raining, isn't dark and I don't have a pressing engagement.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: orienteer on 16 March, 2015, 07:41:40 pm
I usually put a helmet over a hood, so it doesn't block my view when looking behind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 17 March, 2015, 12:03:04 am
Is it pink like your other Rapha, Jurek?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 17 March, 2015, 07:01:31 am
Quote from: Steph on 17 March, 2015, 12:03:04 am
Is it pink like your other Rapha, Jurek?
:P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 17 March, 2015, 11:46:24 am
I have the separate hood that you can attach to the back of selected Gore Bike Wear jackets.  This seems to be tailored well and goes quite tight up around the face.  No problems looking over shoulder.

It only comes in black though for some reason.  My Gore jacket is black, so that's fine.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feline on 17 March, 2015, 12:57:08 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 16 March, 2015, 04:45:54 pm
Quote from: jsabine on 16 March, 2015, 04:07:12 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 16 March, 2015, 10:42:05 am
Rain jackets with hoods.
Anybody got one with hood that lends itself to cycling?
Unlike the Rapha one I picked up in their sale - the blurb went on epically, as to how much design had gone into their hood, its cut, the angles, blather blather....
I got sucked in.
It doesn't work. The peak slides down so far over my nose that I need to winch my head backwards to see.
Rear vision? I hear you ask
A good view of the inside of the hood when I turn my head to look behind me.
Adjustment strings don't seem to make a difference.
Meh!
Wet head it was to be.

Sounds like it's designed to be worn over a helmet (dunno if you were doing) - don't suppose there's a volume reducer at the back?

There's not a volume reducer at the back.
But now that I'm back on dry land, I have found that there are more things to be done with the adjustment strings.
I shall experiment accordingly.
This will probably best be done when it isn't raining, isn't dark and I don't have a pressing engagement.

My Paramo Velez Light has a hood with plenty of adjustments and actually works for cycling (as well as actually not letting in water and not being sweaty). It doesn't have all that much reflective material on it though. But I've remained totally dry on a monsoon-like 200 in it and the peak is big enough to keep the rain mostly off your face if you want it to be.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 17 March, 2015, 04:57:21 pm
Quote from: Kim on 16 March, 2015, 02:36:02 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 16 March, 2015, 10:42:05 am
Rain jackets with hoods.
Anybody got one with hood that lends itself to cycling?

I've got an Altura Night Vision Evo with the optional hood, which seems like it's been designed so that cycling in it might not end in complete disaster.  I haven't actually tried riding in it yet, though - I only really wanted the hood so that when I'm touring I have something sensible to keep my hair dry between tent and toilet block / pub.

I bought the Altura hood separately a while back (not tested in rain yet) - although I don't have that jacket .  In theory an unattached hood moves easily with your head and gives good side to side visibility on the road...  Possibly not so much of an issue if you have the hood clamped by a helmet, or if it's tight..
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 17 March, 2015, 05:01:31 pm
Quote from: andyoxon on 17 March, 2015, 04:57:21 pm
Quote from: Kim on 16 March, 2015, 02:36:02 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 16 March, 2015, 10:42:05 am
Rain jackets with hoods.
Anybody got one with hood that lends itself to cycling?

I've got an Altura Night Vision Evo with the optional hood, which seems like it's been designed so that cycling in it might not end in complete disaster.  I haven't actually tried riding in it yet, though - I only really wanted the hood so that when I'm touring I have something sensible to keep my hair dry between tent and toilet block / pub.

I bought the Altura hood separately a while back (not tested in rain yet) - although I don't have that jacket .  In theory an unattached hood moves easily with your head and gives good side to side visibility on the road...

And presumably does a splendid job of channelling water down your neck?  Not that that matters - if you're cycling in a jacket your body is wet anyway.

Fair point though, the Altura hood attaches with a pair of press studs to a tab on the back of the jacket, so could reasonably be described as semi-detached.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 18 March, 2015, 08:06:04 am
It must be the first day of spring* - thick fog. Just like last year. The motorists I saw were behaving remarkably well. It was the jogger I nearly ran over, in the road, in the fog, in the gloom under the trees, in her black tracksuit :facepalm:




*Local sunrise 0610. Local sunset 1810.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 18 March, 2015, 08:40:41 am
Pea soup and specs, not a good combination, nice to get rid of the winter jacket though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 18 March, 2015, 09:13:37 am
I had a lovely ride last night, so glad I didn't bail out and take the short route.

Also met a lovely cyclist onna FG/SS with fantastic lights. I spotted her from a long way back - her rear wheel a slightly flikering red circle. I really wanted to find out what light is was, as the effect was amazing. She was riding fast though (whilst making it look like she was cruising along), so I had to really turn it up to catch her! When I eventually caught her up, we chatted for a short while and she told me that the fancy red rear and white front rim lights we in fact fairy lights :thumbsup:

A good ride this morning too, only marred slightly by a bus driver, in typical bus driver fashion, overtaking me only to instantly pull in and brake hard for the bus stop :facepalm: This time, it was so close that it amounted to a brake check >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 18 March, 2015, 11:42:21 am
A bit nippy this morning. But nice to have proper daylight, rather than the half winter light. Spring is in the air.

No trouble from cars or buses either  8). Just waiting for the way home now  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 19 March, 2015, 08:39:09 am
Quote from: Kim on 17 March, 2015, 05:01:31 pm
Quote from: andyoxon on 17 March, 2015, 04:57:21 pm
Quote from: Kim on 16 March, 2015, 02:36:02 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 16 March, 2015, 10:42:05 am
Rain jackets with hoods.
Anybody got one with hood that lends itself to cycling?

I've got an Altura Night Vision Evo with the optional hood, which seems like it's been designed so that cycling in it might not end in complete disaster.  I haven't actually tried riding in it yet, though - I only really wanted the hood so that when I'm touring I have something sensible to keep my hair dry between tent and toilet block / pub.

I bought the Altura hood separately a while back (not tested in rain yet) - although I don't have that jacket .  In theory an unattached hood moves easily with your head and gives good side to side visibility on the road...

And presumably does a splendid job of channelling water down your neck?  Not that that matters - if you're cycling in a jacket your body is wet anyway.

Fair point though, the Altura hood attaches with a pair of press studs to a tab on the back of the jacket, so could reasonably be described as semi-detached.

You think of everything Kim...   ;)  The collars on my jackets seem to 'sit up' OK inside the hood, but I've not tested in the wet yet... 

Mine was £7.50   http://www.tredz.co.uk/.Altura-Night-Vision-Evo-Jacket-Waterproof-Hood-2014_39649.htm
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 19 March, 2015, 09:05:49 am
Last night on the way home, the A2 Southbound from about Burgess Park all the way to New Cross Gate was absolutely chock-a-block with French coaches. I lost count at 7 or 8 ???

This morning was good, if cold, although I still stopped half way to take off my jacket. It's so nice to have the bicycle carrying the load instead of me again :) Nearly got taken out by an Addison Lee driver >:( who used the classic Maneuver-Signal-Mirror approach to driving. Later saw him do exactly the same thing to another cyclist and then a bus.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 19 March, 2015, 09:26:04 am
The A23 was clogged with big clots of police yesterday. I thought they were notching up The War on the Motorist, but I think they were just emptying the Snorebury MacD's of breakfast muffins. You could hear mastication all the way to St Reatham-on-the-High.

I did have the pleasure of finally seeing them pull over a Golf that had been twunting through the sluggish for a time, stupid jerky driving, undertaking in the bus lane to get one car ahead, generally encouraging everyone around him to test their brakes. Completely blacked out windows, so I'm not sure he could see south London. Anyway, he zoomed away at one point, so it was pleasure to pass him pulled up on Brixton Hill with a police van parked behind. And I kid you not, as I passed he was arguing vociferously that they'd only pulled him over because he was black. Not, it's because you're driving like a cunt ought to have been the response. Hopefully they made him scratch the impenetrable tint from his windows. Seriously, with those windows, everything in that car was black.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 19 March, 2015, 10:12:42 am
Nice pootle in (now in leg saving mode as half marathon is on Sunday) and a nice chat with a chap on a Fratello about the most excellent archetype rims that I have. And as its the end of the week the delicious smells of the bacon chapatti (!) stall outside of Balham station distracted me once again. One day I will stop for one!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 19 March, 2015, 12:21:44 pm
Forgot to reconnect the back brake after changing the rear tyre on the Brompton.

Well that was an exciting thing to discover when slowing for a roundabout.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 19 March, 2015, 02:44:16 pm
Quote from: davelodwig on 19 March, 2015, 12:21:44 pm
Forgot to reconnect the back brake after changing the rear tyre on the Brompton.

Well that was an exciting thing to discover when slowing for a roundabout.

 :o

At least it wasn't the front!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 19 March, 2015, 07:23:29 pm
Quote from: davelodwig on 19 March, 2015, 12:21:44 pm
Forgot to reconnect the back brake after changing the rear tyre on the Brompton.

Well that was an exciting thing to discover when slowing for a roundabout.
At least you still had a front brake. DAMHIKT.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 20 March, 2015, 12:13:01 am
Started my commute home very late, so decided to go the fast way and get the train at London Bridge.

One delayed train later and I'd have been faster going the long way and would have had a proper ride to boot. 5.5 miles not a poxy 1.5.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 20 March, 2015, 08:16:22 am
Bloody hell, the morons were out in force this morning.

Shaved by a chap driving a beaten up old something I didn't recognise (odd, as my car/lorry recognition game is strong). He forced me to ride through a horrible section of broken tarmac. Then I watched as he aggressively shoved past other cyclists and drivers. Setting a great example to the teen and preteen you were carrying there mate.

Pulled out on by a bus, as I reached the rear offside. I had to drop the anchors.

Shaved by a black Transit from Germany, who I them watched drive aggressively including RLJing.

Scared by two Creepers* in a row.

Pulled in on by a WVM who just had to pass me before we reached the Giant Queue.

Pulled out on by a bus, as I reached the rear offside. I had to drop the anchors. At least he gave me an apologetic wave in the mirror.

Pulled out on by a chap in new Micra at E&C, really thought I was going to get T-boned. We'd made eye contact before he pulled out, but he did the classic drive forward whilst looking right at oncoming traffic >:( I gave him a 'back off' hand signal and a Mk.I Hard Stare, and he did at least give an apologetic wave.

Pulled out on by a minicab, whose driver was so bad that Addison Lee had ditched him! I can't claim total innocence for this one, I'd clocked him tailgating another car on approach to the RAB, and anticipated that since it was a black Ford S-Max, sub-normal driving standards were 99.5% guaranteed and had stubbornly maintained my course and speed but covered the brakes.  ::-)

And just a few meters from the end of my route, a kindly gent in a Vito used the last couple of feet to the car in front of him to pull right into the kerb and block me from filtering up to the lights.

Bah. Today is one of those days you're glad the ride is over.

On the plus side though, I spotted the super fast rider on a Very Orange Orange with Orange Ortlieb. This time he passed me on approach to E&C, I always like seeing him hammering along.  :)



* Creeper - The kind of impatient eejit who noses their vehicle over the stop line and then keeps making little moves forward, ensuring that you never know if they are going to pull out on you or if they simply can't drive properly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 20 March, 2015, 08:38:58 am
Quote from: Jacomus on 20 March, 2015, 08:16:22 am
* Creeper - The kind of impatient eejit who noses their vehicle over the stop line and then keeps making little moves forward, ensuring that you never know if they are going to pull out on you or if they simply can't drive properly.

What they don't seem to realise is that by doing this I have to slow down and they have to sit there longer. Just bloody stay still behind the line and I'll be past without needing to slow down and you'll get to pull out a lot sooner.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 20 March, 2015, 09:43:53 am
Quote from: ian on 20 March, 2015, 08:38:58 am
Quote from: Jacomus on 20 March, 2015, 08:16:22 am
* Creeper - The kind of impatient eejit who noses their vehicle over the stop line and then keeps making little moves forward, ensuring that you never know if they are going to pull out on you or if they simply can't drive properly.

What they don't seem to realise is that by doing this I have to slow down and they have to sit there longer. Just bloody stay still behind the line and I'll be past without needing to slow down and you'll get to pull out a lot sooner.

Time to wheel this clip out again  ;D

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=masAsJeyIVQ
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 20 March, 2015, 09:52:24 am
Nice enough spin in. Traffic was crappy along Queenstown Road but otherwise quite enjoyed it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 20 March, 2015, 04:21:21 pm
Thought I'd take in the sights of SE London like I used to when I lived over that way (the delights of A23 wear thin pretty quick). Got bumped on a arm by Morrison Utility van going through a pinch point as I rode up Peckham Rye; despite me being almost in the middle of the lane, they just had to squeeze through, bumping over the kerb of the refuge to so. Clearly knew they'd done it because I could see the passenger having a good laugh in the side mirror as they sped away. Laugh it up boys, I've just been on the phone to someone who's probably your boss's boss's boss. Apparently, they've just launched a driver behaviour programme so the irony wasn't lost on him. Other than that, quite pleasant, it's bit nicer than the A23 corridor (and the less said about the A22 the better). Shame it takes me about 45 minutes longer to get home that way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 22 March, 2015, 06:22:01 pm
Glad you're ok, Ian.

Friday's ride home was almost as bad as the ride in, so I shant recount all the bad driving - apart from one noteable driver. I pulled up to the lights at a RAB and she pulled up in the lane to my left. My spidey senses started tingling as she nosed into the cycle box, an inch at a time during the red cycle. She floored it when the other traffic stopped, RLJing and cutting across 3 lanes without indicating. After nearly ramming a tipper truck, she swerved back a lane and nearly got hit by a bus. Then she RLJed the next lights and was lost from view.

Today was great though.

I cracked out 13 very pleasant miles round trip to training today. At one point I let a driver out of a tricky side road into the queue ahead of me. As he pulled out he wound his window down, thanked me and said I was 'a gentleman of the road'. I'll take that :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 23 March, 2015, 10:53:39 am
Smug Face came out to play this morning.

Overground trains were all cancelled due to signals failing to signal. Lady Bertie and I hopped on 'the first train heading central-ish' and I rode from Battersea Park along Embankment into the City. That was a blast from the past, it used to be my old commute. Holy crap though, the Brompton's natural speed limiter was a bit of a shock - in my mind, I was still expecting to be able to blast along embankment.

Also, having not ridden that route for a few years now, CS8 from Chelsea Bridge to Westminster is bloody lovely!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 23 March, 2015, 11:06:11 am
Quote from: Jacomus on 22 March, 2015, 06:22:01 pm
Glad you're ok, Ian.
...

It was relatively low speed, just pointless and moronic, and the kind of 'joke' that can end in serious injury. Sadly, and perhaps predictably, Morrison's couldn't locate the precise vehicle (they do have trackers on some apparently, but not all) so all they can do is put out a general warning. At least they called back. Shame I didn't get the van's number. It's unfortunate that the ride up by Peckham Rye is marred by pinch points (I understand that they're there to let pedestrians get to the park, but there's rarely sufficient traffic to make them necessary). As discussed elsewhere, they bring out the worst in impatient and idiotic drivers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 23 March, 2015, 11:30:25 am
Idiot in his dayglo Orange armour half wheeled me all the way through Tooting and then bumped into my back wheel at the lights just before the Bec. Stupid shit eating grin on his face as he apologised. I stayed as zen as possible and just rolled my eyes and upped my speed a little to get away from him. It was supposed to be gentle as my legs are rather sore after the half marathon yesterday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 23 March, 2015, 12:40:15 pm
Quote from: menthel on 23 March, 2015, 11:30:25 am
Idiot in his dayglo Orange armour half wheeled me all the way through Tooting and then bumped into my back wheel at the lights just before the Bec. Stupid shit eating grin on his face as he apologised. I stayed as zen as possible and just rolled my eyes and upped my speed a little to get away from him. It was supposed to be gentle as my legs are rather sore after the half marathon yesterday.

Ugh, both rude and dangerous.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 23 March, 2015, 12:47:31 pm
Great sunny am, with me in short jersey/arm wms/base vest...

This not so good...

(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 23 March, 2015, 12:55:23 pm
Quote from: Jacomus on 23 March, 2015, 12:40:15 pm
Quote from: menthel on 23 March, 2015, 11:30:25 am
Idiot in his dayglo Orange armour half wheeled me all the way through Tooting and then bumped into my back wheel at the lights just before the Bec. Stupid shit eating grin on his face as he apologised. I stayed as zen as possible and just rolled my eyes and upped my speed a little to get away from him. It was supposed to be gentle as my legs are rather sore after the half marathon yesterday.

Ugh, both rude and dangerous.

He didn't exactly endear himself to me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 24 March, 2015, 09:03:01 am
Sunshine  :thumbsup: What a difference that makes to everything
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 24 March, 2015, 09:20:56 am
Quality ride to the station last night. I have finally figured out why I keep being beeped at as I cycle straight over the junction on the South side of London Bridge... it's not me being beeped at by taxis, it's them beeping to alert peds droning over the crossing under the bridge that they are about to drive through it :facepalm:

Police had closed Long Lane at Borough, and I had a little chat with a nice woman on a Brommie a little further down the A2 as we chilled out between two busses.

The only downer was a four ring circus clown flooring it to get past me, close enough that I felt the windblast. Perhaps he'd spent all his money on the car and couldn't afford a steering wheel, as the opposing lane was totally clear. Anyhoo, I stopped behind him at the next set of lights as I prefer to have eejits like that infront of me, and I could smell the burnt rubber from his stop at the lights :o P.s. Oi! Clown! You're driving a fancy car that automatically activates it's hazard lights when you emergency stop/crash. Stopping at a set of traffic lights should not be cause for your car to think that you have nearly crashed.


This morning was a good ride too. Nothing of note, apart from it being Generally Good Fun :)

Oh and Super Fast Rider Onna Very Orange Orange With Orange Ortlieb (VOOWOO for short :P )was running early this morning, as he left me for dust about a mile before he normally does ;D I feel as though he should be a member here - Lovely bike, mudguards, rack, Ortlieb, good lights! ;D ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 24 March, 2015, 11:20:01 am
Well, that explains why the road was closed!

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/unexploded-second-world-war-bomb-causes-chaos-in-london-after-being-dug-up-by-builders-10128412.html
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 25 March, 2015, 10:11:56 am
Last night

My water bottle made a short-lived bid for freedom when I hit the terrible road surface that welcomes you onto London Bridge southbound lane. During it's escape, it went under the wheels of a taxi. I was abreast another Brommie rider when it happened, and told him it was my water bottle when I noticed him trying to work out what had fallen off his bike :-[ 'Twas only a Lucozade bottle, so no bother.

Spotted a lovely Scania artic on the A2.


This morning

Nice enough ride, nothing interesting. Spotted VOOWOO again. Should have deployed by gilet.

ETA: I got some Instant Karma this morning. I was too lazy to wait until I could grab a tissue, so fired a snot rocket... straight onto my trousers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 25 March, 2015, 11:00:14 am
Lovely ride in the sun this morning, though there was still a frost on all the shaded banks which meant I didn't really trust the surface.

The singlespeed actually felt a little undergeared today for the first time in a while. Also got a compliment on my 'fancy retro' jersey* from another rider as I arrived at site which was nice :)

*On One Merino Cardigan really, in Orange
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moultonaught on 25 March, 2015, 01:17:18 pm
First commuting ride of the new-to-me Dahon Speed P8. It
rides nicely, but the bar to saddle distance is very compact.  I'll see if I get used to it before considering some alterations.. 
an uneventful 1mile ride to the station so far. Hopefully the Marylebone Road will be as uneventful...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jenhunt on 25 March, 2015, 03:49:18 pm
cycled in to work on friday - lovely morning, and averaged 19.2mph, which is a 'course' PB for me. Well pleased with myself :) the return journey was breezy but in my favour and I averaged 19.3mph (not quite a course PB though only 18s off!)

The weekend was a 40mile ride with a couple of friends, with 3000ft ascent on it and then a day spent marshalling for the local running club followed by a brief run.

Broke my routine on monday and cycled in again. Regretted it within a mile or two with very sore tired legs despite a relatively easy day on sunday, and a brisk headwind. (Monday is usually my rest day, having usually trashed my legs at the weekends) The commute home I thought would be better, but somehow the wind had done a complete 180 and got stronger. The result was that in contrast to the previous commute, I averaged only 16.5mph on the way in, and 14.2 on the way home...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 25 March, 2015, 05:46:28 pm
On Monday I turned a corner and found an American aircraft carrier parked up. They're quite big you know.

On Tuesday I almost hit a road-crossing deer that didn't stop, look, and listen. Then, as I slammed on the anchors, I almost got hit by his mate.

On Wednesday I simply revelled[1] in sunshine both ways and tried to hide my smug on the urban legs of my commute which were full of stationary cars.

I am so overjoyed that I've got back in the swing of commuting.  :thumbsup:

[1] which autocorrected to "rebelled". Quite accurate really as I left the office at about 1500.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 25 March, 2015, 08:09:05 pm
First day on assignment, so 15 minutes to the station for a 10 minute train journey, 10 minute connection, 12 minute train journey then 8km to site. The alternative is 32km from home to site.

I think I need gears for the last 8km as it is a pull out of the station and then there is a steep dip down over a stream that felt over geared climbing (out of the saddle and ~20kph/55rpm) and under geared going into the dip / coming home (48kph/150 rpm).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 26 March, 2015, 09:19:59 am
Wet and cool today, and it felt so much tougher than yesterday in the sun, despite getting in around the same time. Amazing how different weather can make you feel.

I've also noticed when I got to work that the rear wheel has developed some lateral play. I'll have to tighten that up when I get home tonight, and hope  haven't damaged the hub :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 26 March, 2015, 10:33:58 am
Yesterday, leaving early and taking an effort to avoid the A22, an utterly horrid section of road (and the backstreet alternative is not entirely enticing for different reasons), I thought I'd take a leisurely adventure down the Waterlink Way from Greenwich through to Woldingham. It was nice to be (mostly) free from traffic, given my usual route follows the A23, and even the suburban eau du dog poo is better than chomping on the exhaust of a London bus. You tell people that London has a suburb called Shirley and they won't believe you. Mind you, once I'd got through New Addington the route turned into a vertiginous, rocky, rutted, muddy descent of doom. I was almost tempted to return to New Adders and ask one of the delightful youth tearing through the park on his trail bike if I could borrow it. I did bounce down one hillside with my head flapping like a demonically possessed PEZ dispenser. Should have probably put some lights on too, but hey, Captain Danger needs no illumination.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 26 March, 2015, 12:38:24 pm
Last night

I set out all full of good intentions - have a nice relaxed ride, don't push. Hmm, that didn't go to plan. 10mph average speed and 23mph max ::-)

This morning

It's my fault it rained in London this morning, sorry guys - I cleaned Lady Bertie last night. Now though, her lovely white paintwork and shiny rims are covered in road and brake grime. Grey, cold and raining. I discovered my top-half clothing wasn't up to the task and was cold and fairly miserable the whole way, especially sitting there for coffee wet and very cold and the subsequent wet shirt in the office. The Rainlegs got their first use though, and performed superbly.

I hit a nasty pothole that wasn't there yesterday, underneath the railway bridge. I just got out of the saddle in time, but it didn't half deliver a bump.

Am I the only one who notices the drop in rolling resistance when it's properly wet? A fellow cyclist in the building looked at me as though I'd just declared that gravity is a government conspiracy!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 26 March, 2015, 01:01:44 pm
Quote from: Jacomus on 26 March, 2015, 12:38:24 pm
Am I the only one who notices the drop in rolling resistance when it's properly wet? A fellow cyclist in the building looked at me as though I'd just declared that gravity is a government conspiracy!

ISTR Patrick Field saying this in a magazine column many moons ago.

The downside is that the P*nct*r* Fairy is known to be some sort of water nymph.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: closetleftie on 26 March, 2015, 04:45:28 pm
Bit nippy this morning. Snow when I left the house, sleet going over the tops, and rain once I got into central Leeds.

My fault entirely - I speculated briefly last night whether to put out trousers or 3/4 lengths for this morning's commute. The gods were obviously paying attention.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 26 March, 2015, 07:18:33 pm
On my way home, kudos to the Hackney postie giving it Richard Strauss's 'Blue Danube' cranked up to 11 with both windows of his van open.  :thumbsup:
Makes a change from what usually emanates from cars in E8, which is more akin to listening to an altercation between two motorists at a set of traffic lights.
And what was with all the church bells in the East End going like the clappers (did you see what I did, just there?) at 18:00?
Has Angela Merkel ordered the invasion to take place?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 26 March, 2015, 08:29:31 pm
Well I took the gears today, final station to site 21 minutes, site to station for the journey home 16 minutes. Sort of highlights the fact that a lot of the journey back was ~30mph down hill rather than ~11mph in the other direction.

And it was dry coming home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 27 March, 2015, 07:31:38 am
(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/HouseholdCavalry400.jpg) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/HouseholdCavalry.jpg)

More horsies (aka the Household Cavalry) this morning, although strictly speaking this was 30 seconds after my commute, not on it, as they passed me as I was locking the bike up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 27 March, 2015, 08:54:05 am
^Nos 3 and 4 have their "even soldiers are scared of cars" belts back to front!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 27 March, 2015, 09:48:56 am
It's friday so all my stuff from the week is wedged into my C Bag on the brompton which when overloaded makes it much harder to grind up the hills.

It's days like this I question why I converted the bike from 6 gears to 3, oh yeah I bought the wrong hub so I couldn't put two cogs on it.

D.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 27 March, 2015, 12:11:53 pm
Last night

I was on the road at 2100hrs after a meeting and had no wind, only 2 red lights and minimal traffic. Lovely cruise to the station, although my mirror snapped off ::-)

Spotted a Dutch Scania R730 V8, in beautiful blue and silver livery. When he pulled away from the lights, it was clear he was fully loaded and the sound of that engine! Oh. Hell. Yes. Made my spine tingle.

This morning

I was having a nice cruise, thanked a right-turning driver for treating me as a vehicle and got a blown kiss back 8)

Did a bit of yo-yoing with a rider on a nice Cannondale. He was faster than me, except was having user/mechanical troubles as he'd not drop out of the big ring at TLs and take a long time to get up to speed. Traffic was very light, so I didn't feel guilty about the yo-yoing.

Spotted VOOWOO again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lenny1 on 28 March, 2015, 10:39:23 am
This happened yesterday but i'm still  >:(. 
Rididng home from work, very pleasant afternoon, sun out and not too much traffic.  Riding up a reasonably longish hill when i hear a large vehicle very close to me (rear).  Looked behind to find an ARGOS delivery lorry no more than 2 - 4 feet behind me, revving the engine.  followed me all the way up cockshott hill, Reigate. 
Nearing the top he tried to get past but simply did not have the room so i ended up with this bloody lorry no more than a foot from my right hand side in line with me.
i shouted out and still he did not give up.  I'm afraid i lost my temper slightly and shouted at this idiot to fuck off, move over.
The response was very quick and aggresive.  He tried to run me down, moving voilently to his left, i had to get onto the pavement which, luckily, had just started at the brow of the hill.  He then partly mounted the pavement trying to clip me :o. 
He wound the window down, shouted a stream of abuse and leapt out of his cab and chased me down the pavement :o
I made my escape, but did not manage to get the license plate of the ARGOS delivery lorry. 
The two young eastern european gentleman concerned should not be driving such a vechile, very dangerous.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 28 March, 2015, 10:48:21 am
That needs reporting to Argos and to the police.
Argos won't have had that many lorries, in the Reigate area that they won't be able to identlfy who it was.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 28 March, 2015, 06:48:21 pm
I got caught late on Thursday - Yanks should run on GMT when they're doing joint ops with civilised folk in Blighty, imo.

Had to ride home in the dark with one feeble rear light and no front light at all. It was v v dark and v slow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 29 March, 2015, 11:26:45 am
Quote from: Jurek on 28 March, 2015, 10:48:21 am
That needs reporting to Argos and to the police.
Argos won't have had that many lorries, in the Reigate area that they won't be able to identlfy who it was.

Plus, it's probably tracked for logistical purposes (and they stuff on them worth nicking, so they like to know where the lorry is and was).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 30 March, 2015, 07:34:05 am
A nice, and unusually clear view of The Shard, as I cycled along Klea Avenue near Clapham Common, today.

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/vlcsnap-2015-03-30-06h19m38s35_edited_500.jpg) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/vlcsnap-2015-03-30-06h19m38s35_edited.jpg)
Click image for bigness

Unfortunately, the wide angle view from the camera doesn't even remotely do it justice.  It was much more impressive, than that dull blob! :D  It's is almost 4½ miles away though, so I shouldn't be surprised that it's hard to photograph.

The sun had risen about ten minutes earlier, so it was a sunny transit of the Thames, on Chelsea Bridge.

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/vlcsnap-2015-03-30-06h40m08s96_500.jpg) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/vlcsnap-2015-03-30-06h40m08s96.jpg)
Click image for bigness
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cycleman on 30 March, 2015, 08:24:15 am
Ooh !,nice empty road's in London  :D .
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 30 March, 2015, 08:27:33 am
Quote from: cycleman on 30 March, 2015, 08:24:15 am
Ooh !,nice empty road's in London  :D .

Actually yes, today it was surprisingly quiet on the roads.  Normally the traffic starts to become noticeably worse at around 6am, but I think quite a few people were hit by the clocks changing, and found it hard to drag themselves out of bed!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 30 March, 2015, 08:51:13 am
Finally managed a ride in after an eternity (well 2 weeks I think). It was fun although my quads are killing me and I was overtook on the hill like I was standing still.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 30 March, 2015, 11:50:35 am
Quote from: TimO on 30 March, 2015, 08:27:33 am
Quote from: cycleman on 30 March, 2015, 08:24:15 am
Ooh !,nice empty road's in London  :D .

Actually yes, today it was surprisingly quiet on the roads.  Normally the traffic starts to become noticeably worse at around 6am, but I think quite a few people were hit by the clocks changing, and found it hard to drag themselves out of bed!
And, possibly, because the schools are on their holibobs  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 30 March, 2015, 12:31:36 pm
Friday

Had a mostly pleasant ride all the way home, it was my first non-intermodal commute. Ugh, dragging myself up Knight's Hill and then Beulah Hill then South Norwood Hill wasn't overly fun. What is the deal with all the pedestrian refuges?!? Fortunately most drivers took pity on me struggling up the hill and didn't make a fuss, but of course there was a private hire taxi driver used his Pious to herd me into the gutter, before roaring off. Then another taxi driver who went for the overtake, ran out of room and screeched to a halt just in front of a ped refuge (as did I, in case he decided to sacrifice me to save his car). He wasn't very happy at all.


Sunday

Rode all the way to training, 15.7 miles in 1h 35m on Lady Bertie :smug:

I got rained on for most of it, but the Rainlegs and Altura jacket did their jobs. A very enjoyable ride indeed :thumbsup: , even with the taxi driver who was unimpressed by my road positioning. He beeped and gesticulated a lot once past me, but didn't actually overtake dangerously.

Sunday night after training was another matter entirely :(

My objective was to ride all the way home. When I set out, the wind was very nasty - affecting bike handling kind of nasty - then the heavy rain started. Then driver after driver intimidated me, threatened my safety and the combination broke my nerve after about 2 miles. I slogged through the next 5 miles to London Bridge and made a safety call - get off the road. Caught the train home.

Why is the driving in Zone 1 so much better than everywhere else? Why do drivers drive so poorly in the rain?!


Monday

Train trouble started the day, but once I reached my stop and got on the bike, all was good. Bloody chilly though! My legs were a little heavy from Sunday still, and there was a stiff headwind, no biggie though especially as happenstance saw me in the wind shadow of a bus almost the whole way along the A2.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 30 March, 2015, 01:27:50 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 30 March, 2015, 11:50:35 am
Quote from: TimO on 30 March, 2015, 08:27:33 am
Quote from: cycleman on 30 March, 2015, 08:24:15 am
Ooh !,nice empty road's in London  :D .
Actually yes, today it was surprisingly quiet on the roads.  Normally the traffic starts to become noticeably worse at around 6am, but I think quite a few people were hit by the clocks changing, and found it hard to drag themselves out of bed!
And, possibly, because the schools are on their holibobs  :D

Ah, that too then.  I didn't realise it was that time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 30 March, 2015, 08:49:25 pm
Left site, rode down the hill and got to the station to find that the train had left ~5 minutes earlier. At that point I chose to ride the remaining 15 miles home as it would be quicker than waiting 26 minutes on a wet platform.

Overall the ride home was an hour and fifteen minutes. which was only about 10 slower than getting the train.  :thumbsup:

One scary pass where there was just a lack of patience in the face of oncoming traffic that woke me out of my zen trance.  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 31 March, 2015, 07:37:03 am
After hearing the shipping forecast, and all of the dire warnings of gale force winds, it actually wasn't too bad for me.  Since the wind was predominantly from the west, and my route is essentially a north-south traversal, buildings protected me from the majority of the wind.  Clapham Common was interesting in that respect, since suddenly I was hit by wind strong enough to almost blow the bike off of the cyclepath!

The temporary traffic lights north of Chelsea Bridge appear to be broken, and permanently on red, so it takes drivers a while to realise this, and decide eventually to jump them.  This means that there's pretty solid stationary traffic back to Queenstown Circus, which isn't unusual at peak times, but is at 6-45am.  On a bike I was slowed down by an annoying 5 minutes or so, but some of those car drivers are probably looking at upwards of half an hour extra time, if they're lucky.  The passengers of the long queue of buses along the bus lane, where it's rare to see more than one or two at that time normally, were abandoning the buses and using shanks' pony to continue onward.

Aside from the solid traffic along Queenstown Road and Chelsea Bridge, the roads continued to be quiet, which was nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 31 March, 2015, 08:57:51 am
Well that was interesting, a positive gauntlet of fallen tree limbs, wheelie bins and contents, busted umbrella's and for sale signs. The noise that came off the front wheel every time the wind turned cross was truly eerie, the locks over the ship canal in full spate was impressive though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: caerau on 31 March, 2015, 09:16:52 am
Tree down across the bridge that crosses the Canal just by the Music building in Bute Park in Cardiff this morning.  Made for a brief detour.  Positive coterie of paparazzi taking pictures of it.
I can understand, never seen a dead tree before myself  ::-)   No doubt Facebook is now ablaze with this phenomenon
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 31 March, 2015, 10:26:28 am
Last night

Wet and windy. I was having a great ride though. At one point, I ran over something that I didn't see - but it made a very 'you're going to get a puncture from that' kind of sound. Sure enough, it was a slow puncture - 10mins later I had to pull over. I was close to the station, so just took the bus and sorted it at home... where I discovered that there was no grease at all on the axle threads.

That caused me to have a nose around the hub, where I discovered the bearings were 'lightly dusted' with grease >:( I know some people get very excitable about not over-packing bearings, but this was taking the piss. Out comes the LM2 and now my bearings are nicely packed. I'll probably get to work on the rear on Friday, and expect I'll find the same thing. Looks like I'll have to have the pedals off too, as I bet their threads haven't been done either.


This morning

Hmm, that wind wasn't fun - added 12 minutes to my journey time (although some of that came from stopping on London Bridge to remove a metal sign that had blown into the road).

Spotted a cyclist have a low speed crash going in the opposite direction. She was gutter-hugging and it looked as though a big gust of wind pushed her just enough to strike her pedal on the kerb. She got straight up, so fingers crossed she and her bike are fine.

Spotted a lorry with a Brompton sticker on the driver's door :thumbsup: Got shaved (within an arm's length) by a different lorry, too dirty to catch either the company name or numberplate >:( >:( >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 31 March, 2015, 11:08:25 am
Quote from: Jacomus on 31 March, 2015, 10:26:28 am
... Spotted a lorry with a Brompton sticker on the driver's door :thumbsup: ...

Are you sure that means the driver is pro-Bromptons, and not just an indication of how many Bromptons have been taken out by that lorry? ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 31 March, 2015, 12:09:29 pm
Quote from: TimO on 31 March, 2015, 11:08:25 am
Quote from: Jacomus on 31 March, 2015, 10:26:28 am
... Spotted a lorry with a Brompton sticker on the driver's door :thumbsup: ...

Are you sure that means the driver is pro-Bromptons, and not just an indication of how many Bromptons have been taken out by that lorry? ;D

 ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 31 March, 2015, 02:06:58 pm
Quote
Site Pager Message -Strong winds expected with gusts of up to 60mph

Looks like tonight's ride home could be 'interesting'.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 31 March, 2015, 02:09:19 pm
Dodging those food scraps recycling tubs, they're freaking everywhere!

(saw one)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 31 March, 2015, 06:14:48 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 31 March, 2015, 02:06:58 pm
Quote
Site Pager Message -Strong winds expected with gusts of up to 60mph

Looks like tonight's ride home could be 'interesting'.

Oww. My core muscles are rather upset after the battering I just got riding home into the wind. Should've taken gears and a more stable bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 31 March, 2015, 06:25:36 pm
Good god, it was like being in Twister. I think that's the same cow! I bailed out early so I could plan-b the train if necessary, but what the hell, it's only twenty miles of uphill gradient into the wind. What doesn't kill you merely results in a guano-like accretion of character. The wind explains my arrival in Mitcham as I pursued the mythical tailwind into terra incognita. A couple of times I was stopped dead by a gust and on one occasion I was sure I was either going backwards or someone was fast-forwarding the world around me. With the tailwind I did manage to fly through mysterious suburban hinterlands, vast deserts of pebbledash. Sadly, none of those tailwinds were going the way I wanted to go.

Heading in earlier, I saw a wheelie bin suicidally shuffle into the road like a depressed Dalek. A BMW X5 approaches it and slows right down but doesn't entirely stop. Seeing no way around it, he drives into it really slowly and then stops. It was a like of battle of wills between driver and dustbin as they sat there and stared at one another. I think the bin probably won, I scooted by. I did contemplate doing a good deed and moving the bin. For about a femtosecond. For all I know they're still there now mano-a-wheelie bin.

Oh, and fellow cyclist passing through Brixton. Please don't ride through across the crossing screeching 'WATCH OUT'. I know it's green for traffic, but the traffic wasn't moving, and pedestrians will take the opportunity to thread between the stuck cars. It happens. Slow down and be gracious. Some poor old lady who looked about a hundred not only got the fright of her life, she got you screaming into her face as a bonus. Poor thing nearly dropped there and then. Stop and apologise, oh no, off you scoot while I ask if she's OK. That, my friend, is why I may have pointed out that you're a bit of a cunt so don't give me the prissy 'well, it was green'. Jeez, you wonder why people hate cyclists.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 31 March, 2015, 06:28:40 pm
Thing is, if the weather's bad enough that it's difficult to cycle in, you know the train is going to be having worse problems.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 31 March, 2015, 06:41:06 pm
^^  That.

I've long ago given up the notion that the train may be a weather related alternative.  Just battle on, it won't last for ever, and no matter how rubbish it is, it won't be as rubbish as it is for those poor sods on the train.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 31 March, 2015, 08:40:34 pm
Blowy as f*ck out there tonight!
My journey north to south was punctuated by side-swipes from my right as the 51mph westerly gusts had their fun.
Tall buildings in Docklands for the win - I cannot remember the last time I clenched as much as I did this evening.
As  a bonus, my front brake cable snapped as I exited the Greenwich foot tunnel.
I've been expecting it.
Over the last week or so, each day I've given the front brake an eye-watering squeeze, I could feel / hear another strand saying sayonara.
At least this occurred in the leafy suburbs of Londres Sud. And not the badlands of Walthamstow.
Regardless of which, it serves to focus ones mind on how effective the front brake actually is.
Left with just the rear brake, and leg-braking (fixie, y'see) it still requires that you need to make an appointment if you want to stop - as opposed to just slow down.
Glad to be home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 31 March, 2015, 09:38:36 pm
76mph at Weybourne. Mate's chicken laid the same egg four times, poor thing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 01 April, 2015, 08:52:49 am
Last night was tough, nearly got dumped into the verge near the ship canal, missed the kerb by an inch or two and I'm not a gutter cyclist, despite only doing about 10mph it was still disconcerting.

This morning I was flying, shame there were all these blasted metal boxes littering the road and getting in the way  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 01 April, 2015, 08:53:22 am
Pretty crap ride in today, couldnt get into the flow at all, found myself in wrong place loads of times.
Slow. Least it was dry.
Strong headwind,driving sleet and 2.5C  last night, caught out in my 3/4's.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 01 April, 2015, 12:15:17 pm
Last night

A simple ride, although the wind certainly added time, effort and hazard! I got half-heartedly rained on, but not enough to get me too wet.

This morning

Legs were still tired from last night, and got another good workout against this wind this morning. It was dammed chilly, but I had enough clothing to be comfortable. Drama free, too, which was nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 01 April, 2015, 03:18:39 pm
Quote from: Kim on 31 March, 2015, 06:28:40 pm
Thing is, if the weather's bad enough that it's difficult to cycle in, you know the train is going to be having worse problems.
I'm not at all sure about that. The train will be crowded, the atmosphere in the carriages will be humid, muggy even, but the train has two things which are very useful in strong winds: power and weight. Barring trees on the line, it's going to get there without incident - there may be hesitation or even repetition but there won't be any deviation or stalling.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 01 April, 2015, 04:23:33 pm
While Birmingham was being bombarded with trees yesterday, overhead line problems were causing minor chaos on the railways, with (as usual) the local services being the worst affected.  Same sort of thing tends to happen when it snows.

I agree that it's possible to engineer railways to cope with weather, but that wouldn't be British.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 01 April, 2015, 06:07:15 pm
Oddly the trains seemed to run fine yesterday, which is unusual since they mostly don't, especially for those of us on a line that is (a) run by Southern and (b) one that they forget about and (c) run by Southern. The power is on the ground down here, so no lines to blow over, but I live in a place with trees that tend to swoon when presented with the blowsy affections of inclement weather.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 01 April, 2015, 07:01:24 pm
Where did all those cyclists come from? There were four others on Borough Road alone.

Had a brief conversation with a cyclist in Croft (we'd been shuttling since East Cowton).

Him: Do you ride audaxes?
Me: Yes.
Him: Aye, you always have those..
Me: Carradice? Mudguards? Rapha?
Him: mudflaps.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 02 April, 2015, 10:51:50 am
Last night

Traffic chaos and loads of sirens last night as I rode through Bank and Monument-ish. Turns out there is some kind of underground fire on the go on Kingsway and it's still burning today :o

I was following a fellow cyclist on the A2 when the wind drove a plastic bag from right to left between his wheels, where it was clipped by his pedal and found a home trapped between mudguard and the wheel.


This morning

An easy ride, light traffic. Almost all drivers being sensible. There is a lot debris on the road, blown around over night.

Bloody bus companies! >:( Oil is supposed to stay inside the engine. I thought that lorries were generally the cause of diesel spills, but bus lanes and stops are covered in the stuff.

I pointed out a particularly nasty patch to a motorcyclist who was about to ride through it. He stopped and said something to me, then dodged around it, but I didn't catch what he said. I'm hoping he knew what I was pointing at, and not thinking I was trying to stop him passing!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 02 April, 2015, 07:02:11 pm
Delayed leaving site so I got to the station 2 minutes after the train home. So it was ride on home, 20 miles and 15 minutes quicker than waiting 30 minutes for the next train.  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 03 April, 2015, 02:34:54 pm
For reasons involving minor illness (that dreadful cold that would not go away) and injury (for some reason some houses in Croydon are built with ridiculously steep & narrow stairs, and bouncing down them on your arse is not recommended) I only did my first full cycle commute on Monday this week, four months after moving.

A round trip from Croydon to Poplar is about 25 miles; about 10 miles more than what I'm used to, and with more Hills. Oh, and the drivers in Croydon are a special breed, although, I must say, not entirely dissimilar to the drivers of Tower Hamlets in many respects.

Jane and Jurek of this parish, being familiar with these roads, had already kindly helped me out with a recce ride in January (before the cold and the stairs hit me) so I'd done the route once before. Jane had also showed me an off-road route, but I'm working long hours at the moment due to the fact that my employers are saving lots of money by deliberately delaying recruitment can't seem to recruit quickly enough, which means even with the clocks changing I'm sometimes coming home at dusk, so I stuck to the road route.

I didn't get lost at all on the way there, though I stopped several times to check the map and what turn was coming up next. Once we got close to Greenwich I finally became part of a very small peleton of cyclists (rather different from when I lived in Stockwell and used CS7, which often felt like you were part of some kind of amateur TdF). Up til then I'd been mostly on my own. I guessed most of them were going to the same place as me (Greenwich foot tunnel) and followed them there.

Don't much like Greenwich foot tunnel on a commute, I must admit. Don't like walking through it, but don't like breaking Teh Roolz and upsetting peds by cycling through it like pretty much almost everyone else does. I especially don't like when the lift's there and you can see it and you have to scurry to catch it. But don't have a lot of choice for river crossings at that point - going to Tower Bridge would take me too far west.

Once out of the foot tunnel, I do at least know exactly where I am and it's plain sailing from there.

Got a bit lost on the way home. I was knackered after a hard day at work, it was getting dark, I went left where I should have gone right and almost ended up in Catford. Luckily I soon realised my mistake and managed to turn around and head in the right direction. There was a total fucker of a headwind though; I remember slogging up the hills (I'm unfit, ok?) and then pedalling down the bastards. It took me an hour and half each time, but I expect to cut that down significantly once I'm able to stop stopping and looking at maps.

Going to aim for twice a week at first. I took the Spesh Globe; it's a fully mudguarded-up hubgeared workhorse that can easily cope with crashing around some of the crappy road surfaces between here and there. It's not the lightest bike though. In the summer months (don't laugh) I might treat myself to using the rather lovelier road bike that I bought off Charlotte to do the RideLondon 100 on.



Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 03 April, 2015, 04:59:10 pm
Well done on the commute Laura! :thumbsup:
It goes without saying the more often you do it, the easier it becomes.
Or something...
There are alternative crossings at Greenwich, but they involve the use of your Oyster card and either the DLR from Cutty Sark to Island Gds - if you are on the (fully folded)  Brommie - otherwise that option is only available outside of peak hours (I think)
Or, alternatively, there's the clipper service from Greenwich pier to Mast House pier - both of which may be less than desirable as they bind you to someone else's timetable as opposed to your own IYSWIM.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 03 April, 2015, 05:18:41 pm
Top tip, if you get lost in Catford ask The Cat, he knows all. Including the way to Croydonia. The Waterlink Way isn't a bad route in daylight hours, mostly off-road Cator Park north and a fairly straight and fast run between Croydon and Greenwich (I skip South Norwood Country Park and go through Beckenham Cemetery, across the tram tracks, down Harrington Rd, across Portland Road and then take Davidson Rd right into Croydonia). I've started coming back that way to give my lungs a break from the bus fumes on the A23. Sadly takes me a bit longer, but on the way home it's a more chilled route. I've also started to clamber up to Sanderstead in my continued efforts to avoid the A22 post-Croydon. Effective if something of a workout. I probably shouldn't have picked the windiest day of the year to explore that option. Come to think of it, I probably shouldn't have lived somewhere that is all bloody hills.

What I forgot to mention about the windy day was Mr Trackstand showing off his ninja skillz by balancing at the lights. Did you not notice the wind, the savage and capricious gusts stalking the streets of south London? Evidently not. Sadly, they were unable to resuscitate his pride and it died at the roadside.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ruthie on 04 April, 2015, 03:54:42 pm
Well done on biting the bullet and doing your first new commute NSTN, it's surprising what a difference moving a few miles makes, isn't it?  It might as well be a new country when you're trying to find new routes and new roads.

Very sensible of you waiting for the spring.  You can do without arctic weather on top of route-finding.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 05 April, 2015, 11:37:25 am
Thanks guys.

Jurek, the alternatives to the foot tunnel are faffy (and also not free) so I'll stick with it. I know in reality it's only a few minutes' time I'm losing, but on a commute I'm normally keen to get somewhere and resent it. I'll likely resent it even more when the lifts are broken, I'm sure...

Will have another couple of goes next week. Definitely need to cement the route in my brain so I can stop messing around with maps, which will save a lot of time. The Brompton will still come out to play for Overground-assisted commutes so that I can take it on site visits, however, because taking it on site visits in east London means I don't have to lock a bike up outside in bike theft central.

On the plus side, if my old commute impressed people, who knows what they'll think of this one...

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Otto on 06 April, 2015, 02:46:50 pm
Gloriously traffic and annoyance free this morning riding from Sanderstead to Southwark... almost made up for having to work the bank holiday
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 07 April, 2015, 10:23:31 am
Sunday

16 miles to training, cracked out in 1 hr 20 min, very nice indeed :thumbsup:

There were a LOT of low quality drivers out there, but mostly they did their poor driving in my sight, not in proximity to me.

I went intermodal on the way home, 9.7 miles to the station then train from there - amazing that they were running!


This morning

Off to a bad start - rear tyre was flat this morning. I'm thinking valve failure as it was fine when I did my daily checks last night :( Still, I'd rather change the tube in the comfort of my living room than at the side of the road.

I discovered the delightfully quirky fact that the Brompton rear axle has a specific 'up' and 'down' - after spending fikkin' ages wondering why I couldn't get the retainer clips to sit in their slots >:(

Then I discovered that I must have knocked the marker nut out of place on the timing chain, as I was getting a lot of slippage trying to select second. A couple of stops on route to fettle it and I've got all 3 gears working properly again now. I'm getting sick of the Brompton shifter though. Either I've been unlucky and got a duff one, or they really are crap. I feel like a £1k bike should have a shifter that you don't have to coax and wiggle to select a gear! It's been like this since day one and has not bedded in.

I had a decent ride this morning, but I didn't enjoy it - I was too frustrated by running an hour behind schedule and temperamental gears.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 07 April, 2015, 10:34:38 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 05 April, 2015, 11:37:25 am
. I'll likely resent it even more when the lifts are broken, I'm sure...



Jinxed myself! South lift out today. The Globe is a heavy beast, and while I managed to carry it down the stairs, I'm somewhat dreading carrying it up them later on today, and may be forced to investigate ferry timetables. I assume there's no way of finding out if it's still out other than actually going there (google had not been my friend).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jsabine on 07 April, 2015, 10:45:21 am
Greenwich *occasionally* tweets status updates (https://twitter.com/royal_greenwich/status/519814269479968768) (that one's from October though) and it might be worth reporting the fault (http://www.royalgreenwich.gov.uk/info/200102/walking/693/foot_tunnels) in the hope that you get an update when it's fixed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 07 April, 2015, 10:48:10 am
Quote from: Jacomus on 07 April, 2015, 10:23:31 am
I'm getting sick of the Brompton shifter though. Either I've been unlucky and got a duff one, or they really are crap. I feel like a £1k bike should have a shifter that you don't have to coax and wiggle to select a gear! It's been like this since day one and has not bedded in.

No, they's just a bit crap and tend to randomly change gears when faced by the average far-side-of-moon texture of south London's roads. Other times they're markedly resistant to changing at all unless you wiggle them loose. Certainly the bog standard Shimano handlebar shifters on my other bikes are a bazillion times better. The grip-shifter on my far cheaper other folder is better for that matter.

Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 05 April, 2015, 11:37:25 am
On the plus side, if my old commute impressed people, who knows what they'll think of this one...

My once-a-week (ish) commute from the far, far side of Croydonia (another 8 miles or so) is regarded with awe, even by the mothership's coterie of cyclists, who have to eat about six muffins each to refuel after rolling in from Hackney. To be honest, I never planned to cycle all the way in, hence the Brompton, but given the amount of time it takes to get to the train station, at which point there may or may not be a train, then get the train to London Bridge, spend another 10 minutes squeezing down the narrowed platforms, and then getting the bus (inevitably it'll get caught caught up roadworks) to the mothership, I generally can't fail to cycle it quicker.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 07 April, 2015, 10:54:20 am
Really foggy this morning. I don't like it when it's that bad as I'm on edge all the time about whether people can see me, even when I'd added a third light on the back. Slower too as I can't take the downhills at any speed. I came close to abiling out and driving in as at least there's a metal box round me then.

I had to remove my glasses half way as they were fogging up too, and arrived at work with dew formed on my shorts and the sleeves of my baselayer. Hoping it burns off before I head home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 07 April, 2015, 11:06:26 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 07 April, 2015, 10:34:38 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 05 April, 2015, 11:37:25 am
. I'll likely resent it even more when the lifts are broken, I'm sure...



Jinxed myself! South lift out today. The Globe is a heavy beast, and while I managed to carry it down the stairs, I'm somewhat dreading carrying it up them later on today, and may be forced to investigate ferry timetables. I assume there's no way of finding out if it's still out other than actually going there (google had not been my friend).
There's an app.
I've seen it advertised in the local rag in Greenwich Waitrose, and someone has clipped the article into the noticeboard at the top of the south lift shaft.
I believe the purpose of the app is to inform you of the status of the lifts.
Not that that's going to help you today.
They do now have signage at the top of each lift shaft telling you (sometimes correctly) what the status of the lifts is (part of the £11.2 million tunnel refurbishment spend).
TBH,  if it was broken in the morning, on a weekday chances are that it'll be fixed by the evening.
Sometimes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jsabine on 07 April, 2015, 11:11:40 am
Quote from: Jurek on 07 April, 2015, 11:06:26 am
There's an app.

Going to be, I thought.

Certainly Google Play doesn't seem to know about it yet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 07 April, 2015, 11:18:32 am
^
You may be right.
I confess to have only skimmed the headline.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 07 April, 2015, 11:24:26 am
I hate those lifts. I once made the mistake of popping into the Canary Wharf Waitrose for a few items and getting carried away and coming out with two panniers full. Got to the tunnel and both lifts were out. Had to lug my chunky commuting bike and all shopping down and up the stairs. Was tempted to chance the DLR. By the time I clambered up into Greenwich, my arms wished I had.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 07 April, 2015, 11:46:17 am
Thanks all.  I've only got a Windows phone so many apps aren't available for that in any case (even when they are ready).

The LED display was showing the correct info so I assume they know but reported it anyway in the hope of an update.

Also tweeted them asking them to tweet an update for all the good it may do.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 07 April, 2015, 12:07:51 pm
Had an email saying it was fixed as of 10.30 but saying they'd go and investigate again (because my message arrived slightly after 10.30). Replied hurriedly to say no need to investigate again, don't want to waste anyone's time obvs. Quite impressed they got back to me really.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 07 April, 2015, 12:16:52 pm
 :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jsabine on 07 April, 2015, 12:35:16 pm
Good to know they're reasonably responsive - and that they've fixed the lift.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 07 April, 2015, 12:43:30 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 07 April, 2015, 10:54:20 am
Really foggy this morning. I don't like it when it's that bad as I'm on edge all the time about whether people can see me, even when I'd added a third light on the back. Slower too as I can't take the downhills at any speed. I came close to abiling out and driving in as at least there's a metal box round me then.

I had to remove my glasses half way as they were fogging up too, and arrived at work with dew formed on my shorts and the sleeves of my baselayer. Hoping it burns off before I head home.

my bold

I hate that, unfortunately I can't use your solution since I'd just end up hitting a verge/kerb/parked car and have to resort to wiping them every 100 yards with a glove with the obvious consequences to lens longevity
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 07 April, 2015, 01:39:48 pm
Yeah thankfully my eyesight is good enough to ride without them, but riding without glasses can set off my hayfever so really don't like doing it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 07 April, 2015, 08:27:30 pm
The good things:

The man from Greenwich Council spoke the truth and the lift was indeed fixed
I got home without stopping to look at a map which is an Achievement indeed if you're as challenged in that area as I am
I had a nice driver on the way home who hung behind me even as I crawled up a narrow hilly bit, and hung behind me again even after I caught her up and she got stuck behind me again on another narrow bit (she got two thumbs up for that)
Traffic is light because it's the school holidays, I presume

The bad things:
My closest pass of the day came from another cyclist. That always disappoints for some reason.

I seem unable to cycle the stretch of Selhurst road (after South Norwood) without some kind of motorised gitweasel. Today I was pedalling along quite steadily along that straight stretch when a car pulled out of a side road. He saw me, it was quite deliberate - sod it, it's only a cyclist, she won't make a mess of my car kind of thing. I sort of screamed "Nooooooo' quite loudly, squeezed the brakes, threw my weight back and managed to stop inches from his door, probably because the brakes are pretty sharp at the moment (I got the bike serviced before embarking on the commute). He smiled and gave me the finger as he carried on pulling out.

While this is an infuriating reaction, it's actually pretty rare (for me, anyway). I would like to think that if I hadn't been wearing my mirrored cycling glasses due to the fact that the sun had made an appearance, and he'd seen the fear in my eyes as I saw myself being splatted/catapulting over his car, he wouldn't have done that...(I'm probably wrong, he's probably just part of the special breed of Croydon driver that appear to frequent that area who Don't Give A Shit).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: closetleftie on 07 April, 2015, 09:03:57 pm
Shorts, short-sleeve jersey and no gloves on the way home today... first time this year!  :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 07 April, 2015, 09:11:26 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 07 April, 2015, 08:27:30 pm
....... He smiled and gave me the finger as he carried on pulling out. ........
Jizzbadger.
I return to the delights of the Greenwich Foot Tunnel tomorrow, following a six day break from my commute.
I can't wait......
To hear that the lifts are working, makes me feel warm and soft.
That's enough for one night.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ruthie on 07 April, 2015, 09:28:14 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 07 April, 2015, 09:11:26 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 07 April, 2015, 08:27:30 pm
....... He smiled and gave me the finger as he carried on pulling out. ........
Jizzbadger.

Arsehole.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 07 April, 2015, 09:41:17 pm
It's not called the Norwood Malfunction without good reason.

I used to live in SE25 before I was banished to the dark forests of Surrey so I know this for a fact. I hated cycling that bit of Selhurst Road by the station. I remember one time a delightful lady turned left to park in front of her house, without bothering social pleasantries such as indicating, necessitating a quick stop on my part. I gently pointed out 'did you even see me?' as she climbed out. "Yes,' she said, thus deflating all and any argument I might have had. So I went home and built a homicidal robot in my shed and gave it her coordinates. OK, I entertained the thought. Building homicidal robots as agents of vengeance is harder than it seems. Obviously, or we'd all be doing it.

Personally I'd do Davidson Rd or meander by Selhurst Park and Dagnall Park. Of course, if you're smarter than me (quick likely, most people are), you may have already built that vengeance bot, in which buy a tandem and take it with you. Wow, look, her arms came right off. That probably won't help her with working the indicators in future though, Vengebot.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 08 April, 2015, 08:27:21 am
Thanks for the pithy epithets used to describe the motorised moron yesterday, they are most accurate  ;D

Quote from: ian on 07 April, 2015, 09:41:17 pm
It's not called the Norwood Malfunction without good reason.

I used to live in SE25 before I was banished to the dark forests of Surrey so I know this for a fact. I hated cycling that bit of Selhurst Road by the station. I remember one time a delightful lady turned left to park in front of her house, without bothering social pleasantries such as indicating, necessitating a quick stop on my part. I gently pointed out 'did you even see me?' as she climbed out. "Yes,' she said, thus deflating all and any argument I might have had. So I went home and built a homicidal robot in my shed and gave it her coordinates. OK, I entertained the thought. Building homicidal robots as agents of vengeance is harder than it seems. Obviously, or we'd all be doing it.

Personally I'd do Davidson Rd or meander by Selhurst Park and Dagnall Park. Of course, if you're smarter than me (quick likely, most people are), you may have already built that vengeance bot, in which buy a tandem and take it with you. Wow, look, her arms came right off. That probably won't help her with working the indicators in future though, Vengebot.

Sadly I'm not clever enough to build a vengeance bot; neither of my careers to date have equipped me with that knowledge.

Regarding routes, I live closer to West Croydon, on the Wandle Park side of the railway, which is why Selhurst Rd>Northcote Rd>Windmill Rd is so convenient. The railway often gets in the way and in the short time since we moved has more than once led to friends ringing me up asking how the hell they're supposed to get to me with a bloody great railway in the way (if you're walking from East Croydon station, for example, you have to do something complicated involving the Roman Way).

I fear trying another route would involve the bloody railway getting in the way yet again, but I daresay it could be done, once I know the area better.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 08 April, 2015, 09:43:10 am
The marvel about Croydon is that despite the fact they murdered it with the roads from hell, it's astoundingly hard to get around by foot, bike, or even in a car. At least they didn't complete the plan and put another carriageway across the top to complete the box. You are alas pinched between the train tracks and that Big Hill. Selhurst Road isn't so bad, it's Northcote Rd that's worse, as it's usually busy and heavily parked. There are side streets, but it depends how far you want to dragged west. Davidson Road is fine if you're coming down from the Waterlink Way. To be honest, there's no great way into Croydonia from the north, everything involves stretches of horrid roads or monster junctions. Anyway, congratulations, you are now officially Croydon's fifth cyclist. It's a very exclusive club. Technically I don't belong as I just pass through.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 08 April, 2015, 10:40:43 am
Quote from: ian on 08 April, 2015, 09:43:10 am
... To be honest, there's no great way into Croydonia from the north, everything involves stretches of horrid roads or monster junctions. ...

I mostly manage to solve that, by avoiding busy times.  My most common route is straight out along London Road from West Croydon Station, and join the A23 at Thornton Heath Pond.  I can take the A23 the entire route, but the Ikea junction off of the Purley Way, and the frankly terrifying Lombard Roundabout make that generally a poor choice even at quiet times (which just means that cars can go across the roundabout even faster).  Since NSTN is almost within shouting distance of me, if she wasn't going further east, she could enter and exit Croydon similarly.  London Road does tend to suffer rather poorly from traffic though, so at peak times you need to be prepared to under/overtake with care.

I've occasionally cycled to Greenwich from Croydon, but mostly at quiet times, so haven't suffered from too many loons.  I don't recall Selhurst Road as being problematic, but it was at times of day when the roads are as quiet as they ever get in London.

Anyway, keep up with the commute NSTN, I've only missed commuting on two days this year, and that was because I had to carry some equipment to and from home.  I do slightly less than you, around 23½ miles a day, but it certainly gets the annual mileage up, and when you do use a lighter bike, you fly!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 08 April, 2015, 10:45:57 am
Last night

Really didn't enjoy my ride home :(

I guess I felt how normal people do when they ride a bicycle - I wasn't connected to it in any way. It felt wobbly beneath me (I stopped twice to check everything was secure and the frame was still in one piece!). I was definitely a person on a bike, not a cyclist.


This morning

Get in the saddle, a little apprehensive it's going to be the same as last night. Phew! I'm a cyclist again! Man and machine working in harmony. Thank fuck for that! I was definitely enjoying the lack of wind this morning, but chose not to crank up the pace and just enjoy the tootle.

Ooh, and I have a mirror again. Haven't quite got the hang of it yet, but will do in no time.

Bloody bus driver at Elephant & Castle - I turn right, so take lane 3 and ride on the centerline - good job too, as Mr Bus wanker decides to undertake me from lane 2 and cut across lane 3 to shorten the corner. Good job I had given myself the room to move over further to the right, it was a very clear example of how quickly you could end up underneath a long vehicle. A couple of seconds maybe? I'd anticipated he'd pull a moronic move like that, so the result was annoying rather than dangerous. >:(

Then at the roundabout near work a shitstain inna BMW X5 drove at me. Obviously the whole 'give way to traffic that is already on the carriageway you are entering' thing doesn't apply when sed traffic is a cyclist >:(


And since I'm ranting

Busses. Oil. Yadda yadda.

Oi! Bus driver on Friday!  >:( I noticed a puddle of green coolant, unsurprisingly situated in a bus stop. Then a thin stream of drips up to some TLs and another puddle. Then I saw the bus that was doing it. It lost me for a short while, but I caught back up thanks to some roadworks, and yes, it was still pissing coolant. I told the driver, who shrugged and replied 'Can't do anything about it until it tells me on here' and waved vaguely at his dash. Can't do anything?! No, you mean 'can't be assed to do anything'.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 08 April, 2015, 10:58:13 am
I exaggerate the terrors of Selhurst and Northcote Roads, they're no worse than many other roads, just not my preference if there's an alternative route, I too generally use London Road and the A23. I made the mistake of continuing along the A23 at Thornton Heath Pond once, the Lombard Roundabout is horrible, and the Purley Way doesn't get much better. Shame, because I need to get to Purley and bypassing Croydon would be a nice time saver. But if you survive the roundabout, the stretch of retail establishments, then, good god, the snarling junctions of Waddon await.

I sometimes, at off hours when CS7 is bearable, take that down to Mitcham, and then across the common, but that dumps me at Lombard Roundabout and then sends me onto Roman Way, again not for the faint of heart. I seem destined to experience the delights of Croydon town centre. London Road is quite sedate in comparison provided you just assume every car will pull out and ride accordingly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 08 April, 2015, 12:02:49 pm
I may be on good old public sector flexi, but I'm still on core hours, which mean I still end up commuting at roughly similar times to everyone else.

Plus, I have a dog to walk, which means I'm already getting up at stupid o'clock before work and can't face getting up any earlier. On the plus side, the dogs and their owners in Croydon seem much nicer at least (no, really. My dog was terrified of the other dogs in Stockwell for years, but has already made a number of canine friends in Wandle Park in her dotage and now seems to have lost her neuroses completely. Go figure.)

Yesterday's incident was at least not as bad as the incident back in January when I was coming back from Jane & Jurek's recce commute, when someone pulled out of a junction just as someone in a van was overtaking me and, rather than brake for them, the van's driver decided to swerve around the back of the puller-outer, thus attempting to occupy the space I was in. That was the start of my 'thing' with the Selhurt/Northcote road, and is probably why I stopped in time yesterday. I basically ride down it waiting for the same kind of thing to happen again.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 08 April, 2015, 01:06:22 pm
Some time over Easter, they've resurfaced some of the northbound bus lane opposite Streatham Common.  Annoyingly, they still left a gap between this new section, and the newish section in front of the new Tesco's.  I suspect they haven't redone the southbound carriageway either, and some of the potholes there have been on Fill That Hole for years, with zero effort made to sort them.  Luckily, I rarely use that side of the road, since other "features" make it more desirable to use the back street cycle route when I'm on my way home.

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/ResurfacedStreathamA23_20150408.jpg) (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Kjt7JLH2Q0)

Spot how silent the audio goes, ten seconds into the video, as I start cycling on the new tarmac!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 08 April, 2015, 01:13:38 pm
Quote from: ian on 08 April, 2015, 10:58:13 am
... London Road is quite sedate in comparison provided you just assume every car will pull out and ride accordingly.

Yes, the main thing to beware of on London Road, is that it is the domain of the Private Hire Vehicle later at night, and they make every other sort of vehicle in London appear benign.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 08 April, 2015, 01:24:09 pm
Low tide; mist and early sun stretched across the mud. It's really starting to feel that summer is coming again.

At last. I've found the winter to be quite wet, long, and challenging from a bike commute perspective. The first winter since my return to the saddle and I'm still relearning simple stuff such as wet weather routines (and mental fortitude).

But today is sunny. The birds in the nature reserve were celebrating noisily as I rode through and I'm happy to join them.

PS. Just had email from Amazon telling me they've despatched a cycling cape poncho thing with my order. Forgot that was in my basket from months back.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 08 April, 2015, 04:36:00 pm
Quote from: TimO on 08 April, 2015, 01:06:22 pm
Some time over Easter, they've resurfaced some of the northbound bus lane opposite Streatham Common.  Annoyingly, they still left a gap between this new section, and the newish section in front of the new Tesco's.  I suspect they haven't redone the southbound carriageway either, and some of the potholes there have been on Fill That Hole for years, with zero effort made to sort them.  Luckily, I rarely use that side of the road, since other "features" make it more desirable to use the back street cycle route when I'm on my way home.


Yes, that section is horrible. Few people know that that hideously pitted road surface lingers from the epic battle where St Reatham descended from On The High and fought with Baal, flinging the dark, demonic one down into the valley to form the place we now call Baalham. That was more than 4,000 years ago and they've still not resurfaced the road (Streatham Common is the result of their deific roughhousing). The southbound section along the bottom edge is practically lunar.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 09 April, 2015, 08:50:17 am
Shorts and vitamin D :thumbsup:

The feelgood factor couldn't even be spoilt by the muppet who decided to force his way past the bin lorry into oncoming traffic (me). Did you like my 'positive' right turn signal?  I did, especially that lovely thunk noise as your mirror folded into the window  O:-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 09 April, 2015, 09:09:33 am
Last night

Weird ride. Lady Bertie always feels a little strange when heavily loaded, but this was very odd indeed - I felt disconnected from the bike again, although thankfully not as badly as the other night.

This morning

Bloody cold. Rather foggy. Still air + light traffic = high speeds. Why didn't I enjoy it ???

Also, my mirror is starting to piss me off. Stay put!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 09 April, 2015, 01:25:23 pm
Guess who managed to pick up cycling socks instead of suit socks when packing this morning....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 09 April, 2015, 01:31:18 pm
I've just measured my route in; 8 miles on the nose. That's a mile further than I thought. Two miles extra every day. I feel tired now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 09 April, 2015, 01:36:14 pm
Quote from: Ham on 09 April, 2015, 01:25:23 pm
Guess who managed to pick up cycling socks instead of suit socks when packing this morning....

So glad I'm now doing jobs that don't require going overboard on office wear. I'm wearing the SPDs and slightly rain proof chinos (M&S) that I rode in wearing. Changed into a shirt on arrival is all.

To think I used to bring a suit in in a rack mounted suit carrier and do the full tie and cuff links lark.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wascally Weasel on 09 April, 2015, 02:04:09 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 07 April, 2015, 08:27:30 pm
....he's probably just part of the special breed of Croydon driver that appear to frequent that area who Don't Give A Shit).

I can't take cycling from Croydon any more.  I try and ensure I ride at least three days a week but it's hard to keep motivated.

Croydon itself is fine and has all sorts of great food shops but the car centric nature and the aggressive driving that always makes me feel that I'm one dickhead away from a crash every damned day is just so depressing.

I've done about a third of my equivalent mileage for last year.  I have to move anyway and am now looking at places in Thames Ditton and Molesey - would mean a longer commute but a better one.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 09 April, 2015, 02:38:35 pm
Try Streatham Common, I'm biased, but it seems well connected in just about every conceivable direction and prices are not too mad!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 09 April, 2015, 02:57:19 pm
I'm not sure I find Croydonia much worse than other parts of London for cycling (which isn't a compliment). The worst-of-the-1960s road system is admittedly a curse, leading to no pretty approach from the north (from the south it's not so bad, Brighton Road is wide and fairly straightforward). The council has no interest in cycling, of course, their imagination stretches about as far as parking spaces, which they're obsessed with. Like the thing Croydon needs is more traffic. I don't really mind the Brighton Road > the pedestrianised bit in the middle > London Road section. London Road isn't nice, but it's unpleasant in predictable ways.

The bit that demotivates me is the A22, far south of Croydonia. Pretty much something horrible happens every time I use it, but alternatives are thin on the ground. I could get the train for that section but part of the convenience of cycling is that I'm free of trains and timetables. It was great last year because the flooding closed it to traffic. This year it's been grim.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Otto on 09 April, 2015, 02:59:50 pm
I've started peeling off at the 'Lombard' roundabout, instead of going through Streatham I go via tooting and pic up the blue route.. the traffic through Brixton 'does my head in'.. as they say
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Otto on 09 April, 2015, 03:03:07 pm
Quote from: ian on 09 April, 2015, 02:57:19 pm
I'm not sure I find Croydonia much worse than other parts of London for cycling (which isn't a compliment). The worst-of-the-1960s road system is admittedly a curse, leading to no pretty approach from the north (from the south it's not so bad, Brighton Road is wide and fairly straightforward). The council has no interest in cycling, of course, their imagination stretches about as far as parking spaces, which they're obsessed with. Like the thing Croydon needs is more traffic. I don't really mind the Brighton Road > the pedestrianised bit in the middle > London Road section. London Road isn't nice, but it's unpleasant in predictable ways.

The bit that demotivates me is the A22, far south of Croydonia. Pretty much something horrible happens every time I use it, but alternatives are thin on the ground. I could get the train for that section but part of the convenience of cycling is that I'm free of trains and timetables. It was great last year because the flooding closed it to traffic. This year it's been grim.

I've I'm cycling all the way from home I avoid the A22 like the plague and take the backroads to Tandridge village then up towards Woldingham and down towards West Wickham... and through Anerly, Dulwich etc to Denmark hill then down into town
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 09 April, 2015, 03:37:14 pm
Quote from: Otto on 09 April, 2015, 03:03:07 pm
I've I'm cycling all the way from home I avoid the A22 like the plague and take the backroads to Tandridge village then up towards Woldingham and down towards West Wickham... and through Anerly, Dulwich etc to Denmark hill then down into town

Sadly, I live just off the A22 (and I know it gets no better after the M25) – the section between Caterham and Purley is horrible. It's very narrow in places and picks up a lot of HGV traffic. Closes passes are obligatory and while a good number of HGV drivers are professional and wait for a safe overtake opportunity there's always at least one on each journey who just has to squeeze by. It's stressful and unpleasant, because you're always waiting for it to happen, and riding wide and assertive (which you have to on the narrow sections) seems to bring out the worst in a minority of drivers. Off peak, it's a bit of a race track. It was lovely when it was closed because of flooding (and it had to stay closed because when they tried to reopen it, drivers kept crashing into the flood pipes and pumps, which tells you everything you need to know about the people who drive along there).

There's a back route along the valley but there's a few heavily parked sections that result in annoying interactions with drivers who don't like being stuck behind or refuse to give way.

I've started to clamber up to Warlingham and then take the marginally better road to Sanderstead and then down to Croydonia and vice versa. This requires substantially more cake fuel, owing to the climbs involved.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Otto on 09 April, 2015, 04:21:49 pm
Quote from: ian on 09 April, 2015, 03:37:14 pm
Quote from: Otto on 09 April, 2015, 03:03:07 pm
I've I'm cycling all the way from home I avoid the A22 like the plague and take the backroads to Tandridge village then up towards Woldingham and down towards West Wickham... and through Anerly, Dulwich etc to Denmark hill then down into town

Sadly, I live just off the A22 (and I know it gets no better after the M25) – the section between Caterham and Purley is horrible. It's very narrow in places and picks up a lot of HGV traffic. Closes passes are obligatory and while a good number of HGV drivers are professional and wait for a safe overtake opportunity there's always at least one on each journey who just has to squeeze by. It's stressful and unpleasant, because you're always waiting for it to happen, and riding wide and assertive (which you have to on the narrow sections) seems to bring out the worst in a minority of drivers. Off peak, it's a bit of a race track. It was lovely when it was closed because of flooding (and it had to stay closed because when they tried to reopen it, drivers kept crashing into the flood pipes and pumps, which tells you everything you need to know about the people who drive along there).

There's a back route along the valley but there's a few heavily parked sections that result in annoying interactions with drivers who don't like being stuck behind or refuse to give way.

I've started to clamber up to Warlingham and then take the marginally better road to Sanderstead and then down to Croydonia and vice versa. This requires substantially more cake fuel, owing to the climbs involved.

Yes the Caterham section is a shocker, I rode from Upper Warlingham station a few weeks ago... not pleasant..especially aproaching Purly Cross
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 09 April, 2015, 08:23:34 pm
Bum. Oil seed rape starting to flower.  I thought there was a moratorium for the next year or two on the use of neonicotinoid coated seeds which would have/should have seen a marked reduction in the amount of OSR.  Seems I was mistaken.  Double bum.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 09 April, 2015, 10:14:43 pm
I think Croydon's as bad as the Tower Hamlets to be honest, which also seems to have its fair share of drivers who Don't Give a Shit and think the road belongs to them and us pesky cyclists have no business being on it.

Last week I was waiting at lights somewhere near Commercial Road and had a driver beep me; when I turned around, it transpired through his gestures he wanted me to move out of the way (where to I don't know - the pavement?) so that he could make a turn without waiting for the lights to change and the traffic in front of him to move. I gave him a 'you must be fucking joking' look and turned back round.

Last week I had also had cause to take the Brompton on the train to a meeting in zone 1, and was struck by how much better the standard of driving was in central London.

I have quite a strong motivation to keep going at least 2/3 times a week, anyway. I want to get my fitness back, I could do with shedding the few kg that have crept on over the winter as I bought my wedding dress last September and the wedding's not til this autumn, the money saved on trains won't go amiss, and unlike the gym or classes, it doesn't take much extra time - it's only slightly longer than getting the Overground (and would probably be about the same if I was fitter and faster).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 09 April, 2015, 10:31:03 pm
Does cycling actually make you lose weight? I imagined it just converted it from lard into muscle.

Despite wearing headphones this eve, I thought my bike sounded rattlier and rougher than usual. Inspection showed this to be the case

(http://i.imgur.com/OdC7OBJ.jpg)

I shall be driving to work for a while, I think  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 10 April, 2015, 09:22:24 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 09 April, 2015, 10:14:43 pm
I think Croydon's as bad as the Tower Hamlets to be honest, which also seems to have its fair share of drivers who Don't Give a Shit and think the road belongs to them and us pesky cyclists have no business being on it.

Last week I was waiting at lights somewhere near Commercial Road and had a driver beep me; when I turned around, it transpired through his gestures he wanted me to move out of the way (where to I don't know - the pavement?) so that he could make a turn without waiting for the lights to change and the traffic in front of him to move. I gave him a 'you must be fucking joking' look and turned back round.

Last week I had also had cause to take the Brompton on the train to a meeting in zone 1, and was struck by how much better the standard of driving was in central London.

I have quite a strong motivation to keep going at least 2/3 times a week, anyway. I want to get my fitness back, I could do with shedding the few kg that have crept on over the winter as I bought my wedding dress last September and the wedding's not til this autumn, the money saved on trains won't go amiss, and unlike the gym or classes, it doesn't take much extra time - it's only slightly longer than getting the Overground (and would probably be about the same if I was fitter and faster).

It really is a night and day difference, isn't it? South Norwood and Tottenham are my two main 'outside of zone 1' areas and the driving quality is shockingly low.

Bad luck, Pancho :(

Last night

Yes! Fettling my mirror worked! It's useable and stable now!

Quite an easy ride, though after reading about the 5th cyclist of the year killed on Millbank I was a little unsettled the whole ride.

This morning

Was slightly too cold at the start, but warmed up to the right temperature quite quickly :)

Drivers seemed to be behaving themselves pretty well, aside from a usual bus overtake and immediate pull in ::-)

Today is the last day of the easy traffic, I think, as schools go back next week? :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 10 April, 2015, 09:36:23 am
Quote from: Otto on 09 April, 2015, 04:21:49 pm
Yes the Caterham section is a shocker, I rode from Upper Warlingham station a few weeks ago... not pleasant..especially aproaching Purly Cross

I call that the Purley Gates, anyone brave enough to attempt to cycle around that gyratory is likely to be joining the queue for eternal judgement shortly afterwards. Up to seven lanes of drivers trying to figure out whether they're on the A22 or A23 and discovering the one they want is over there. If I go that way, I scoot across the pavement and down the High Street or go up around the other side of Purley station. Generally though, I'm trying to figure out the best way to avoid using the A22 at all.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 10 April, 2015, 10:11:13 am
First sub 10 minute front door to summit of Quarry Wood Road commute for the year :thumbsup:

Slightly marred a hundred yards later by a bit of a fright. Slight downhill towards a bend to the left. On the outside of this bend is a junction- a right turn I take. As I approach the junction an Audi comes into view from the right and slows towards the give way lines. I have been nearly taken out at this point before, a couple of months ago by a Mk1 Golf that didn't even ease off the throttle so, I am a bit wary. I am watching the Audi as I slow, positioning myself about a foot on my side of the lane divider markings. I spy an black hatchback, possibly an Audi or BMW followed by an Audi saloon approaching from my left, beyond the bend. The lead car takes the knobber line- offside wheels on the wrong side of the divider markings. I am about to bale out left by throwing myself from G G G Granville, screaming "Move Over!" as I do so. The dappy tart driving the lead car suddenly realizes she is about to kill or seriously injure a magically apparating cyclist and takes a tyre squealing jink to her side of the road. As she passed, I felt the close proximity of the car in the ruffling of the hairs on my masculinely hirsute legs :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 10 April, 2015, 12:44:02 pm
Quote from: fuzzy (retd.) AAGE on 10 April, 2015, 10:11:13 am
First sub 10 minute front door to summit of Quarry Wood Road commute for the year :thumbsup:

Slightly marred a hundred yards later by a bit of a fright. Slight downhill towards a bend to the left. On the outside of this bend is a junction- a right turn I take. As I approach the junction an Audi comes into view from the right and slows towards the give way lines. I have been nearly taken out at this point before, a couple of months ago by a Mk1 Golf that didn't even ease off the throttle so, I am a bit wary. I am watching the Audi as I slow, positioning myself about a foot on my side of the lane divider markings. I spy an black hatchback, possibly an Audi or BMW followed by an Audi saloon approaching from my left, beyond the bend. The lead car takes the knobber line- offside wheels on the wrong side of the divider markings. I am about to bale out left by throwing myself from G G G Granville, screaming "Move Over!" as I do so. The dappy tart driving the lead car suddenly realizes she is about to kill or seriously injure a magically apparating cyclist and takes a tyre squealing jink to her side of the road. As she passed, I felt the close proximity of the car in the ruffling of the hairs on my masculinely hirsute legs :-\

It really is astounding how drivers can be so bad at steering.  >:( >:( >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 10 April, 2015, 01:01:31 pm
Quote from: ian on 10 April, 2015, 09:36:23 am
Quote from: Otto on 09 April, 2015, 04:21:49 pm
Yes the Caterham section is a shocker, I rode from Upper Warlingham station a few weeks ago... not pleasant..especially aproaching Purly Cross

I call that the Purley Gates, anyone brave enough to attempt to cycle around that gyratory is likely to be joining the queue for eternal judgement shortly afterwards. Up to seven lanes of drivers trying to figure out whether they're on the A22 or A23 and discovering the one they want is over there. If I go that way, I scoot across the pavement and down the High Street or go up around the other side of Purley station. Generally though, I'm trying to figure out the best way to avoid using the A22 at all.
I've previously used a route parallel to the A22 when traveling south.
Foxley Hill Road, Northwood avenue, Oaks Road, Valley Road, Beverley Road, Church Road, Salmons Lane and then out into The Road Of Deth, just north of Anne Summers.
It was a good few years ago since I was down there.
Has it changed to the point where it is less desirable than Teh Road of Deth?

Purley Gates execution spot I use regularly. Riding from South Croydon towards my sister's in Coulsden and vice versa. Doing so doesn't add anything beneficial to my day. On the contrary, usually just some additional and unexpected laundry.

On last night's commute....
I arrived home at the usual time. Just a little after 19:00.
The sun was still above the horizon \o/
Some more of that, please.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wascally Weasel on 10 April, 2015, 01:34:40 pm
I'm looking at rental properties at the moment - I rode over to Hampton Court/Thames Ditton on Wednesday night, then West Molesey last night (making 30 mile + trips home each night (I'm off the Hampton Court again tonight for similar).

Last night after viewing I rode over to Leatherhead via Esher and Oxshott and despite lots of the roads being pretty narrow and cars queueing behind me, I never felt intimidated.  Was a welcome relief.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 10 April, 2015, 02:23:20 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 10 April, 2015, 01:01:31 pm

I've previously used a route parallel to the A22 when traveling south.
Foxley Hill Road, Northwood avenue, Oaks Road, Valley Road, Beverley Road, Church Road, Salmons Lane and then out into The Road Of Deth, just north of Anne Summers.
It was a good few years ago since I was down there.
Has it changed to the point where it is less desirable than Teh Road of Deth?


I sometimes go that way (for bonus points you can continue through Manor Park now the mud has gone). It can be a bit of a pain, there's a steep climb, often with heavy traffic, up Foxley Hill Road and some of those back roads are narrow with parked cars and impatient drivers. Plus it's a good bit slower than going direct. And sometimes I feel a bit bolshie, after all I should be able to use the A22, why should I inconvenience myself. Then I remember death.

The downside of my current alternate route is Succombs Hill which is bike pushing territory (I could grind up it, but not in that traffic).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 11 April, 2015, 06:06:14 pm
I was riding home on Friday I turned off the A473 to go through Pencoed to avoid the M4 junction. As I joined the main road through Pencoed my drive side crank snapped at the pedal ring. I stopped and picked up my pedal then pedalled one leg as far as the station.

The train which should only carry two bikes had seven of us on it. Apparently the guard of the previous train at Bridgend had refused to let the any cyclist join the train because another passenger had deposited luggage in the bicycle area.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 13 April, 2015, 11:27:12 am
Quote from: CommuteTooFar on 11 April, 2015, 06:06:14 pm

The train which should only carry two bikes had seven of us on it. Apparently the guard of the previous train at Bridgend had refused to let the any cyclist join the train because another passenger had deposited luggage in the bicycle area.


Yesterday coming back from Gloucester myself and TDM where getting on the train at the bike spaces, 2 spaces two bikes jobs a good un. Alas the chap in front of us instead of folding the kids buggy up and putting it in the enormous luggage rack just stuck all the stuff in the bike space. Thankfully the guard let us stand in the vestibule with the bikes.  Seriously do these folk lack a brain or are they just so self centred they can't imagine anyone else might need to use the space, and we were standing on the platform with him!!!

D.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 13 April, 2015, 01:08:13 pm
Quote from: davelodwig on 13 April, 2015, 11:27:12 am
Yesterday coming back from Gloucester myself and TDM where getting on the train at the bike spaces, 2 spaces two bikes jobs a good un. Alas the chap in front of us instead of folding the kids buggy up and putting it in the enormous luggage rack just stuck all the stuff in the bike space. Thankfully the guard let us stand in the vestibule with the bikes.  Seriously do these folk lack a brain or are they just so self centred they can't imagine anyone else might need to use the space, and we were standing on the platform with him!!!

I think it's just the self-entitled rationalisation that parents sometimes get.  They've got children, therefore their journey is automatically more important that some BloodyCyclist's or disabled scrounger's.  TBH, I reckon lugging a couple of screaming kids and a pile of shopping around on public transport using a badly-designed pushchair is enough to kindle the everyone-for-themselves attitude in anyone.

You don't get quite the same attitude with the enormous Luggage owners.  They're usually happy enough to play sokoban, if they haven't dumped their stuff in the bike space and disappeared to another carriage.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 13 April, 2015, 01:57:30 pm
This mornings commute was the first aboard Pete the Cannondale for the year.

I am now in the 25 to 27 minute each way realm as opposed to the 28 to 32 minute realm on G G G Granville the Ridgeback Horizon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 14 April, 2015, 09:38:10 am
Finally spotted a forumite after a long time. I am pretty sure it was HK on a scott mtb wearing a pink yacf jersey.

Other than that uneventful but it was cold (or rather I was underdressed!)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 14 April, 2015, 09:55:30 am
That would certainly be HK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 14 April, 2015, 11:52:14 am
Last night I was commuting late after a meeting.

6 separate drivers had a crack at KSIing me >:( All of them were via close overtaking.

1 of sed drivers overtook me at such speed and closeness that I felt the bow wave of displaced air.

I spotted one driver rapidly undertaking the flow of traffic in lane 2 using the (narrow) bus lane. I put in a 'fear wobble' and was rewarded with the brown-moment-inducing sound of ABS working :sick: The driver then pushed his way half into lane 2 and I bailed for the gutter asap.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 14 April, 2015, 04:01:48 pm
A bit of a head wind in this morning, which is never a nice thing on the A48. This was my first time back on the bike for 4weeks due to family holidays and stuff.

Looking forward to the wind behind me on the way back tonight!  8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 14 April, 2015, 05:42:46 pm
Mrs P got fed up with me being a bike-less misery and ordered me a new one while I was at work today. At least I'm no longer dithering about what to do!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 14 April, 2015, 07:20:26 pm
Dunno why but the last couple miles home both yesterday and today have been really hard work. To the point this evening of considering walking up something that's barely an incline.

Hope I'm not coming down with something.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 14 April, 2015, 07:32:35 pm
Quote from: Ashaman42 on 14 April, 2015, 07:20:26 pm
Hope I'm not coming down with something.

No, you were going up.  It was barely an incline, but you were definitely going up.
hth.

gws.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 15 April, 2015, 09:12:26 am
Last night I had a pretty sweet ride to the station. Certainly was enjoying just wearing a s/s top :)

The mirror was pissing me off again though. It's supposed to improve safety, not increase the distraction level as I have to adjust it after every sharp bump ::-)

This morning the mystery windlessness returned and combined with a long stretch of clear bus lane and luck with traffic lights, I made some very pleasing progress :thumbsup:

Now that the roads are more full again, usual service has resumed with car drivers darting into the bus lane without looking in order to skip ahead in the queue.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 15 April, 2015, 09:39:54 am
Couldn't today have gone on for ever? Sunshine, smiles, and an east wind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 15 April, 2015, 09:47:57 am
Blue sky. Sunshine. Birdies twittering. Baa-lambs skipping. Motorists playing nicely. Apart from that, nothing special to report.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moultonaught on 15 April, 2015, 10:11:19 am
Rather than using main roads as I have been, to ride to the newly-moved-to office, with no real plan in mind, (and plan B of, if lost, head for the Shard!) I headed south from Marylebone, stumbled upon Hyde park, road through the park, down the mall, along embankment and over Blackfriars Bridge to the office with is a bit south of London Bridge.

A really lovely ride in.

Met the Dahon's previous owner on the train who had donated it to me after he had broken it...  (he broke it before I knew him and had already replaced it - otherwise I'd have fixed it for him) - he was rather misty-eyed at its resurrection....  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 15 April, 2015, 11:15:55 am
Spent yesterday eve fettling long forgotten Dahon Speed TR into shape. Used to be my fave bike but a year of daily commuting on a lightweight proper bike has turned my head. Gosh it was hard work (bendy foldy clipless-less pedals don't help) and painful on the bum. But WHAT A FANTASTIC COMMUTE!!!

Huzzah!!! Summer's here and I have a new bike arriving on Friday!!!

Apologies for excess exclamation marks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 15 April, 2015, 11:20:17 am
No problem !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

(Anyone remember Keith Oates ?)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 15 April, 2015, 12:39:26 pm
Quote from: hatler on 15 April, 2015, 11:20:17 am
No problem !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

(Anyone remember Keith Oates ?)

 ;D That's going back some!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 15 April, 2015, 12:52:20 pm
I didn't remember him, but that line of exclamation marks has triggered my memory somewhat....Cycling Plus days even!?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 15 April, 2015, 01:16:44 pm
Certainly C+, and maybe even early days of acf.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 15 April, 2015, 09:47:19 pm
Left sharpish by my standards and punctured within 200m.  Didnt know if it had been going down all day or it was a fast one.
Pumped it up and got about 50m.  Once into the swing of changing it I calmed down and enjoyed doing something properly and to completion. It was a change to the rest of my day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 16 April, 2015, 08:30:41 am
Last night I was forced through a pothole resulting in a broken spoke so this morning rode jogler's Longstaff, which was well....you know...anyway its a plush ride, one things for certain, I could get vaguely fit constantly accelerating those marathon plus tyres and downtube shifters make you realise how lazy you get on STI's.

I was quite interested in the time differences compared to the Trek but forgot to start Strava apparently  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 16 April, 2015, 09:32:37 am
Last night's ride was horrible :(

On the road between 2130-2200. Some shitstain in a Range Rover not only nearly mowed me down from behind on London Bridge, when he did swerve around me, it was severe enough to cause a little squeak of his tyres. He then apologised for his ridiculous behavior by swerving back in front of me and brake checking me. Then 2 other drivers had a good crack at killing me later in the journey. I saw 3 cyclists RLJ, and 9, yes 9, car drivers RLJ. One of whom did it in the lane next to a Police car. Whose driver and passenger decided that it would be too much work to do anything about it. After all, who hasn't just driven through a red light from time to time, it's not like it's against the rules or anything. ::-)

I hate riding late at night.


I was still nervous this morning, but had an easy ride. The only annoyance was my fucking piece of shit mirror. Oh, and the wanker on a Cervelo who overtook me so close that he hit my shitty mirror. And the Darwin Award candidate who tried to undertake a left turning bus (mid-turn), then got irate about nearly being turned into hamburger meat. If anyone fell over on that bus when the driver dropped the anchors to save your skin, it's on your conscience. Dickhead.

I did have a nice cup of coffee when I arrived at my morning cafe though. Hey-ho. Hopefully this mood will lift and I'll be more relaxed on the way home tonight. I've cancelled going to a thing after work so I don't have to suffer another night of shitty drivers. Traffic jams are a godsend for cycling safety.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 16 April, 2015, 09:59:41 am
It was pedestrians doing their best to kill me, dashing through stopped traffic ten yards away from a perfectly good crossing. 

And too many nutters on two wheels who appear to have red green colour blindness.  Don't they realise they give Jeremy Clarkson an excuse.

Otherwise the new route in south of Woking was very pleasant, especially Tweseldown at dawn.  Will probably be my standard way in through the summer.   Will set a new PB for longest commute today.   :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 16 April, 2015, 10:14:56 am
Sun: :thumbsup:
Warm enough for shorts: :thumbsup:
Playing with shiny new bike: :thumbsup:
Fastest ride in of the year: :thumbsup:

Best commute of the year so far :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 16 April, 2015, 10:20:48 am
Quote from: mcshroom on 16 April, 2015, 10:14:56 am
Sun: :thumbsup:
Warm enough for shorts: :thumbsup:
Playing with shiny new bike: :thumbsup:
Fastest ride in of the year: :thumbsup:

Best commute of the year so far :D

Way to go.  I kept my Ronhills on this morning but will be in shorts for the commute home.  Also got out my flashy arm-warmers from the club kit to look ultra-cool.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 16 April, 2015, 11:30:20 am
2nd best commute was yesterday for me. Wasn't so worn out!

Still had a couple of silly fools on the road but heh, nobody died so that's something to celebrate as well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimC on 16 April, 2015, 06:50:57 pm
Quote from: Jacomus on 15 April, 2015, 12:39:26 pm
Quote from: hatler on 15 April, 2015, 11:20:17 am
No problem !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

(Anyone remember Keith Oates ?)

 ;D That's going back some!

Ah, the Hong Kong, Shanghai and Taipei C+ CakeStop rep.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 16 April, 2015, 07:36:36 pm
In no particular order, cowslips, bluebells and a skylark and quite a few new lambs into the bargain.

Nice to be able to make the inbound trip without leg warmers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 16 April, 2015, 08:11:03 pm
Yesterday: leave site knowing I won't get to the station in time for the train so commit to riding all the way home and take the direct route rather than dog leg to the station. 19 miles in 1h02m to get home  :thumbsup:

If Ham is correct about the east wind above then that was into the wind but I think I had a westerly, also the first 6 miles are a nice steady decent  ;)

Today I left site on time to get a train  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 16 April, 2015, 08:45:30 pm
Not sure whether to put this here or in the Grumble Thread.
Coming down the Brizzle Road tonight, both lanes of the dual carriageway are at a stand still ahead.  I'm just about to dart into the gap between the lanes when I do a last minute life saver, in case of drunken mopedists.  Good job I did, as a racing snake, in full on I'm a racing snake gear zipped past me and into the gap at speed.  He proceeded to clip the mirrors of both the inside lane and outside lane cars.  No damage, just a noise.  You know, we've all done it.  ( But not two cars at once).
Well, the reaction was amazing.  Hoooooooooooot!  Lean out of window shouting!
I decided it would be politic to stay back for a bit and not try for the same gap just now.
Traffic was still not moving so the inside lane guy decided to get out and start berating me!

FFS!

Luckily, he'd moved right to stop me getting through, so I was able to slip past on his inside and then back to the lane splitting.
Really proud of myself.  Not one word passed my lips.  The absolute best response.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 16 April, 2015, 10:14:05 pm
It was an East wind.  Made 55 miles from Lambeth Bridge to Basingstoke via Ascot in 3 hours and 5 minutes.  There was no way I achieved that without atmospheric assistance.  Arrived 24 minutes before time promised to Mrs CET.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 16 April, 2015, 10:28:38 pm
Quote from: Basil on 16 April, 2015, 08:45:30 pm
Not sure whether to put this here or in the Grumble Thread.
Coming down the Brizzle Road tonight, both lanes of the dual carriageway are at a stand still ahead.  I'm just about to dart into the gap between the lanes when I do a last minute life saver, in case of drunken mopedists.  Good job I did, as a racing snake, in full on I'm a racing snake gear zipped past me and into the gap at speed.  He proceeded to clip the mirrors of both the inside lane and outside lane cars.  No damage, just a noise.  You know, we've all done it.  ( But not two cars at once).
Well, the reaction was amazing.  Hoooooooooooot!  Lean out of window shouting!
I decided it would be politic to stay back for a bit and not try for the same gap just now.
Traffic was still not moving so the inside lane guy decided to get out and start berating me!

FFS!

Luckily, he'd moved right to stop me getting through, so I was able to slip past on his inside and then back to the lane splitting.
Really proud of myself.  Not one word passed my lips.  The absolute best response.
Well done Basil.
My bold.
Too many times I confess to all-too-readily descending into the 'What-day-is-it-today?-Drive-like-a-fahhkin'-kuuuun'-day-or something?-Is-it?' :-[
EDIT - I think I may be getting old and curmudgeonly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 16 April, 2015, 11:13:31 pm
Thanks Jurek.  I'm getting better and better at the non vocal stuff.
And better and better at the dismissive disdainful look that says "I really can't be bothered with you, you hopeless little shit"

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 17 April, 2015, 12:48:44 am
I've got myself into so much trouble by raising an eyebrow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 17 April, 2015, 07:54:07 am
I got driven at and berated one time for simply shaking my head (in disbelief), and not in an exaggerated fashion either, and there were scores of other cars around, so that the fact that the one chap whose driving had been sub-optimal chose to get riled proved that he was a tosser of the first order, and had indeed transgressed the Highway Code and that bit about being excellent.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 17 April, 2015, 08:29:41 am
Quote from: benborp on 17 April, 2015, 12:48:44 am
I've got myself into so much trouble by raising an eyebrow.

YA both Gallagher brothers at the same time AICMFP ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 17 April, 2015, 10:38:13 am
Had a really nice ride home last night.

Should have had a really nice ride in this morning, but I was in a foul mood thanks to a change of plan for this weekend. You know you're in a bad mood when a sunny commute with zero bad drivers doesn't improve your mood!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 17 April, 2015, 11:08:44 am
Loving some of it as its blowing an easterly, which means into the wind but roughly downhill on the way in and a bit of a tailwind on the way home.

Some chap on a motorcycle took great offence to me moving on amber (well the other side being amber and no cars) and since I had been hit the last time on that roundabout I decided getting ahead was more important. So he beeped and gave me some words of advice and I showed his my less congenial side.

Hope this conditions continue, although its a bit cold in the morning
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 17 April, 2015, 07:12:09 pm
I have now found out why the last two days have set records up the hill in the morning, the east wind has resulted in peddling back down them in the evening!  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 17 April, 2015, 09:45:01 pm
The good: I was on the Brompton cycling to my new GP off London road, and the police were in the middle of bollocking/ticketing a woman for driving through a zebra crossing while there was a ped on it. She looked sullen and not particularly contrite so I was glad she was getting a bollocking. I've had as bad behaviour from cars as a ped here as I have as a cyclist.

The bad: On the way back up London road, I need to turn right by West Croydon station to head off to my particular corner of Croydonia, so I'm in the right lane coming up to the junction. Suddenly one of the minicabs parked up decides he wants to turn right two, and veers across the two lanes, almost knocking me off. I shout 'Whoa whoa!' and brake hard, just about managing not to fall off into the path of oncoming traffic.

The minicab driver's response, as I got a good view of him as he pulled across me and turned right, is to look at me scornfully and tap towards his eyes to indicate that I was at fault somehow  ??? ??? For, I don't know, checking to my left for people about to cut across two lanes knock me off my bike, before turning right? Is that in the special Croydon edition of the Highway Code? Perhaps. It's bloody infuriating and makes we want to start kicking people's cars warning them I'm there.

He also turned right across the path of a bus coming the other way. It was small consolation that I caught the eye of the bus driver and we both shook our heads in a 'what can you do?' kind of way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 17 April, 2015, 11:54:57 pm
Yep, standard issue driving nstn ::-)

Tonight, I was nearly killed by a WVM. He and I had a slightly different interpretation of the correct procedure for reacting to a yellow traffic light. Thankfully I was able to experience the heady rush of a near heart attack and the delightful music of the so-called 'driver' calling me a variety of colourful names, instead of being dead. Small victories, eh?

When I got to New Cross Gate, I watched a 'driver' pull across the road, utterly oblivious to the blue lights strobing off the buildings. Oh, and the siren. Oh, and the Ambulance that both of those things were attached to. Luckily the ambulance driver was switched on. The 'driver' looked like she had a brown moment when she finally realised that if she didn't brake sharpish, she would drive into the now stationary ambulance! Hopefully she did.  :demon: She didn't look anywhere other than where she wanted to go. I accurately predicted what was going to happen before her rear wheels had crossed her stop line.

In summary, that's another 2 'drivers' added to my Wrongfully Allowed to Nearly Kill Erudite Roadusers list and marked for retesting, come the revolution.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 20 April, 2015, 08:21:46 am
I had another fantastic ride in this morning. Sun just rising and rather chilly - to the extent that I saw a couple of frost patches. But yet another day when I simply exalted on being out in the fresh air.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 20 April, 2015, 09:49:04 am
Had a lovely, if very cold, ride in this morning.

I was ill at the weekend and was noticeably down on power this morning, still felt good though and I was thankful that there was little to no wind.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 20 April, 2015, 10:11:41 am
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 17 April, 2015, 09:45:01 pm
The bad: On the way back up London road...

That's standard behaviour for the taxi drivers who park by West Croydon station. Just assume that the little road next the station will fire a taxi at you like little linear taxi accelerator and any taxi parked up by the station will pull out. In fact, for the entire length of London Road is a state of quantum superposition where every car is simultaneously parked and pulling out. By cycling on it, you're effectively a point source of decoherence. Fear not, the burghers of Croydonia are improving London Road by erm, making parking bays.

The Lidl is even worse, I think bad drivers must get some kind of discount there. Half the drivers pull out without looking and the other half just pull out regardless.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 21 April, 2015, 12:38:51 pm
Last night

A pretty nice ride overall. Traffic around London Bridge was even more insane than normal, and there was a lot of pointless beeping going on from drivers too dim to check whether there was space to pull into before moving off.

Spotted a Lycra Hero steaming down the outside on Borough High Street, overtaking a line of bicycles and motorbikes who were filtering on the outside. He came unglued trying to dive into safety as traffic was approaching. Clipped his left bar on the back of a stationary container lorry and went for an unpleasant looking lie down. Fortunately he wasn't run over by oncoming traffic. I didn't bother to stop as a couple of people went over to him right away.

This morning

I was later than usual, so the heavy traffic added time.

Got quite a view of the rider in front of me when the sun turned her leggings see through :o

Saw a young lad getting a dressing down from 2 old dears, presumably for cycling on the pavement by the way he hung his head and slunk back onto the road ;D

E&C is having works done and they'd closed the innermost lane, so traffic was even more mental than usual. A taxi driver kindly informed me what he thought of my taking the lane by undertaking me, and shouting abuse when we stopped in the queue for the lights all of 20 meters down the road. I kept schtum and let him get on with it, then he left hooked a cyclist a little further up the road. May cripplingly expensive mechanical failure remove his vehicle from the roads and a whole bunch of zeros from his bank account.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 21 April, 2015, 01:59:31 pm
Wow! I've never made it to work in under 18 minutes before! :o :smug:
It takes longer than that using the car & shuttle bus.

Glorious sunshine here today. Hoping to go for a long diversion on the way home :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Otto on 21 April, 2015, 02:11:32 pm
Quote from: Jacomus on 21 April, 2015, 12:38:51 pm
Last night

A pretty nice ride overall. Traffic around London Bridge was even more insane than normal, and there was a lot of pointless beeping going on from drivers too dim to check whether there was space to pull into before moving off.

Spotted a Lycra Hero steaming down the outside on Borough High Street, overtaking a line of bicycles and motorbikes who were filtering on the outside. He came unglued trying to dive into safety as traffic was approaching. Clipped his left bar on the back of a stationary container lorry and went for an unpleasant looking lie down. Fortunately he wasn't run over by oncoming traffic. I didn't bother to stop as a couple of people went over to him right away.

This morning

I was later than usual, so the heavy traffic added time.

Got quite a view of the rider in front of me when the sun turned her leggings see through :o

Saw a young lad getting a dressing down from 2 old dears, presumably for cycling on the pavement by the way he hung his head and slunk back onto the road ;D

E&C is having works done and they'd closed the innermost lane, so traffic was even more mental than usual. A taxi driver kindly informed me what he thought of my taking the lane by undertaking me, and shouting abuse when we stopped in the queue for the lights all of 20 meters down the road. I kept schtum and let him get on with it, then he left hooked a cyclist a little further up the road. May cripplingly expensive mechanical failure remove his vehicle from the roads and a whole bunch of zeros from his bank account.


Saw a nicely crunched taxi oozing fluids near Oval Tube yesterday... looks like it lost an argument with a bus
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moultonaught on 21 April, 2015, 02:19:38 pm
Rode in later than usual this morning. Cycling through Hyde Park at midday, on a sunny day. which happens to be the Queen's birthday, towards Buckingham palace, is not the best plan in the world!  :facepalm: Anyone for dodgems?  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 21 April, 2015, 02:42:14 pm
You can tell the weather has turned. 3more cyclists today on a usually lonely A48. Hopefully the wind hasnt turned 180 degrees like last week.
  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 21 April, 2015, 05:35:06 pm
Running out of space in the cycle parking area at work.  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 21 April, 2015, 05:39:44 pm
(https://scontent-lhr.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xat1/v/t1.0-9/11168407_10153143588521839_8436640914337445941_n.jpg?oh=509c38617ecd59bcc3a05e2df51a8ad3&oe=55A0DF17)

Spring has sprung.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 21 April, 2015, 08:14:35 pm
I've just been involved in a spot of commuter racing.
Me : fat, 40s, civvies, ice bike with studs, weekend bag over shoulder
Him : skinny, 30s, all the lycra + helmet, carbon + tri bars, rucksack
Winner : me.


Wtf?

After I overtook him (he must have had his music up to 11 not to hear me coming) he woke up and raced  past.
As I was saying. Wtf.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 22 April, 2015, 12:25:56 pm
First time for me commuting twice in a week. My legs felt much better this morning, as I seemed to fignt with the bike yesterday morning. Not looking forward to the head wind on the way home though  :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 22 April, 2015, 03:49:34 pm
Came home a cross-country route today (all gravel tracks) as a test for the new bike. It proved itself to be superb in this role - its touring tyres a vast improvement over the narrow "audax" tyres on my road bike. And those new bars are proving themselves better all the time - far more control on imperfect surfaces than drop bars.

And, what glorious weather. I'm max-ing out on the sun and blue skies as I get a feeling change is in the air. It'll be grey and wet, UK standard April, come the weekend. But hasn't it been a fantastic few weeks?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 22 April, 2015, 04:05:38 pm
Also today...

Came up behind fit young woman ahead of me. Decided I was one of those 21st century modern men that didn't feel the need to overtake her just because she was a GURL so kept my pace. Then got paranoid about being thought of as lusty bloke spending too long looking at the "view" ahead of me so overtook and put some distance between us. This obviously spurred her on as she started gaining on me. This was not on - and not at all fair as I'd only overtaken out of modesty not sport. Anyway, proved  to myself that I am in fact not a 21st century modern bloke and nearly died putting the hammer down to avoid being overtaken by a mere GURL.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 22 April, 2015, 05:14:41 pm
Bus stopped ahead and I signalled to overtake, keeping my arm out the whole way passed the the bus and up to my right turn well beyond said bus.  Slowed up & looked over my shoulder (still with arm out) as I was about to turn, and there was some pill0ck overtaking me!   ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 22 April, 2015, 06:13:54 pm
Came up behind a bloke riding a bso one handed tonight.  In the other (right) hand he was holding a full length snooker cue.  He was letting it wave around all over the place except when he could hear cars behind when he would keep it bolt upright.
I figured there could be a risk of cue in ribs, eye, spokes if I wasn't careful so I dropped back and then built up speed to overtake wide and fast, tailgating a car.  I still called out "Ay up, Sir Lancelot" just in case as I came up level.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 22 April, 2015, 06:14:16 pm
Quote from: Pancho on 22 April, 2015, 04:05:38 pm
Also today...

Came up behind fit young woman ahead of me. Decided I was one of those 21st century modern men that didn't feel the need to overtake her just because she was a GURL so kept my pace. Then got paranoid about being thought of as lusty bloke spending too long looking at the "view" ahead of me so overtook and put some distance between us. This obviously spurred her on as she started gaining on me. This was not on - and not at all fair as I'd only overtaken out of modesty not sport. Anyway, proved  to myself that I am in fact not a 21st century modern bloke and nearly died putting the hammer down to avoid being overtaken by a mere GURL.

I'm sure I told a similar story of following a woman all the way from Streatham to South Croydon, eventually having to overtake her so she didn't think I was looking at her rear end, but she overtook me back, and so on. She was a bit faster than me on the starts from the lights, I was a bit faster once I got going (my bike has a lot of inertia), so the net was that we were travelling at much the same speed. It was something of a relief when she finally turned off. Especially as this happened twice with the same person. She must have thought I was hanging out in Streatham waiting. Or possibly I'm projecting my paranoia and she was looking at my arse. A truly modern dilemma. I generally have no urge to race anyone.

South London seemed to be filled with French coaches today. Most piloted by little Frenchies hailing from picturesque sounding little French towns whom, I suspect, were entirely unfamiliar with traffic.

Some chubster in a van took offense at my taking up the space in a pinch point to stop him zooming through and then proceeded to harangue me through his open window. I just pretended I couldn't hear him. Pardon? PARDON? No really, I can't tell what you are saying. He was getting mightily aggrieved by the fact that I apparently couldn't hear his erudite commentary on my cycling. I recommend this strategy, it seems to really wind them up, and his blood pressure already looked to be somewhere north of 100 psi.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 23 April, 2015, 08:05:30 am
The Limehouse Tunnel was closed yesterday evening due to a fire, so there were miles and miles of stationary traffic. As a good boy, I overtake/filter on the right.

A minicab driver decides he's had enough of waiting, so pulls a swift U turn. Unfortunately he forgot to

a) Look;
b) Indicate; or
c) Think.

So now I have some impressive bruising and a slightly damaged brompton. Bah.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 23 April, 2015, 10:37:03 am
Quote from: Pickled Onion on 23 April, 2015, 08:05:30 am
The Limehouse Tunnel was closed yesterday evening due to a fire, so there were miles and miles of stationary traffic. As a good boy, I overtake/filter on the right.

A minicab driver decides he's had enough of waiting, so pulls a swift U turn. Unfortunately he forgot to

a) Look;
b) Indicate; or
c) Think.

So now I have some impressive bruising and a slightly damaged brompton. Bah.

 :( GWS Pickled Onion


Last night

The French and Belgian coaches were out in force. The ride was just over 10 minutes longer than normal, due to the weight of traffic. It was still nice though, I just chilled out and cruised along and didn't bother to put any real effort into filtering.

A woman RLJed her way past me onto Old Dover Street and I got a good view of her underwear as the sun turned her leggings see through. This happened a good few times. She was riding slower than me, but I was stopping at red lights. Back and forth, back and forth. Hello pink thong. Bye bye pink thong. Oh, hello again pink thong. She had 30 gears on that rather tasty roadbike and used just one of them ::-) She wasn't slow either, just ran out of revs at about 14mph. She stopped for a few lights, obviously pushing infront of me and the stopline each time. Inflicting her excruciatingly slow and wobbly starts on me, then I had to overtake her once she topped out. Just as I was about ready to beg her to either use her fucking gears and leave me behind, or stop behind the fucking line so I could leave her behind, she turned off. Bye bye, pink thong, and good riddance.

There was a comedy moment when I sized up the gap between a lorry and a coach. Even though the traffic was properly gridlocked at that point, I decided that it just wasn't worth going for. A couple of cyclists went for it though. I was sat there looking down the gap, waiting for traffic to move and I could see the lorry driver bobbing around in the mirror and heard him shout something accompanied by some sort of waving action.

I had no idea what was going on, but waved back at him.

A little while passes and traffic moves on and I realised that he was likely trying to tell me I was good to go for the filter. So when I passed him in the bus lane, I gave him another friendly wave and noticed the cab had 2 other passengers all laughing away too. Then I forgot all about it.

A while later, I was fannying around outside the station and saw the lorry again. Que more waving and smiling ;D

This morning

After cocking up getting out at New Cross Gate, by reading through the station :facepalm: I decided that I wasn't going to screw myself out of a longer ride, so alighted at Surrey Quays, switched platforms and caught a train back to New Cross and cycled from there!

Had a fun ride. Was passed by a chap on a nice singlespeed who was slightly faster than me. So I queued behind him at a few sets of lights. Even though his acceleration wasn't as good as mine, I hate yoyoing (as you may have noticed!). A while later, perhaps he tired, but I ended up cruising slightly faster than him, and he didn't push past at lights, so all was fine and dandy.

E&C was remarkably pleasant today - I think that having only 2 lanes working is actually an improvement over having 3. Heavier traffic = lower speeds and improved lane discipline.

Had a brown moment caused by one bellend and one monumental bellend. A black cabbie overtook me and almost instantly hit the hazards and dropped anchor. Annoying, but not a huge problem - I dodged into lane 2 slightly sooner than I was planning to. This was the exact moment that a black cab driver going in the opposite direction (in lane 1, by the way) decided to chuck a u-turn without bothering to check anything at all. He nearly managed to kill a biker in lane 2 on that side of the road, who in turn, nearly killed me by taking evasive action into my lane. She and I stopped with our front wheels about 6" apart, next to the cabbie who'd dropped anchor, looked at each other and did that strained 'holy fuck, we nearly just died' laugh. The taxi driver who had started the whole thing called both she and I a "pair of idiots" and roared off behind the cabbie who'd nearly smooshed the biker. Neither cab picked up a passenger even. Both of the drivers were just operating randomly.

Then a bus driver decided to shepherd me back into the gutter where I obviously belong, before running a red light and fucking off.

Hmm... might well push the button and get that GoPro I've been lusting over.

ETA: Aaaand one final thing. I washed my jeans last night. When I got to work this morning, I've picked up a Mystery Stain on the right thigh. Right where you hit yourself if you blow a snot rocket poorly. Except I didn't blow any snot rockets. ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 23 April, 2015, 11:23:37 am
Last night rode home with friend and colleague, although his entire commute is part of mine and we both commute daily its fairly unusual for us to leave at the same time. Cue much pushing each to greater efforts, combined with a tailwind meant we were flying, average of 30kph which I was pleased with considering its through the city and I lost a good chunk due to horses at the locks.

Paid for it this morning though, knew I soon as I left the legs were pretty empty, nice to just cruise and check out some new roads in an attempt to stop wearing grooves in the road through Urmston.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 23 April, 2015, 11:51:40 am
Roads closed at the office due to this
 :(
http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-edinburgh-east-fife-32426533
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 23 April, 2015, 01:11:32 pm
At a local estate T-junction having just cycled passed a school, bloke in a 90's I-always-wanted-own-a-porsche drives by (on a corner) holding and having a conversation on his mobile phone.

Bus (on A-road) couldn't be bothered to move over and give me much room even though there was no on-coming traffic.   Same reg. as a very close pass (reported) a few weeks ago...   ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 23 April, 2015, 01:30:25 pm
I've had a few silly drivers since my return to commuting but I try not to dwell on such stuff and don't think posting it here at the rate you guys do is helpful to my sunny disposition or to my efforts to "sell" cycling at home and work with tales of "best commute ever!" every morning.

I'm wary of reverting back to my non zen self of yesteryear.

And I need to practice my calm occasionally. This morning for example, even though I had priority I didn't actually need to take it in a situation that was marginal and open to interpretation. And I wouldn't have ended up nose to nose with WVM on a narrow bridge feeling like an idiot.

Hey Ho. Sun's come out and I'll take the gravel road home this afternoon. :-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 23 April, 2015, 07:42:42 pm
Chap I chat to occasionally in the pub got doored on this evening's commute.
I've been doored, but I've never had the thing that the thought of scares me most.  He did.  The sharp top corner of the door in the Sternum.  :hand:
Bloody hell!  I always thought that would be pretty ghastly, but other than a bit of blood and what is obviously going to be some rather pretty bruising, it doesn't seem too bad.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 23 April, 2015, 09:03:52 pm
Last night I got to the station car park just in time to see my train leave...

So I had to turn round and ride the rest of the way home  :thumbsup:

Where as Monday night I missed the train due to snapping my chain through raw power [reader, he fluffed a a front gear change. Ed] so it was >2 hours from desk to door.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 24 April, 2015, 04:01:15 am
An e-quaintance of mine got doored in USAnia once, while riding his home-built recumbent.  Chainset smacks into door, door snaps off motor-car, Bill rides over door and continues on his way.  Win.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 24 April, 2015, 08:10:48 am
All the trees are green (the trees are green) and the sky is blue (and the sky is blue-hoo)
Came in on my bike as I like to do (as I like to dooo)
If I didn't tell them (if I didn't tell them) I could leave today (leave today-hey)
Cycle touring dreamin' (cycle touring dreamin') on a lovely spring day

Hopped on to my bike like I do all the time
Coming in to work seems such a crime (seems such a crime)
Sitting in an office (in an off-ice) sucks my soul away (sucks my soul away-hey)
Cycle touring dreamin' (cycle touring dreamin') on a lovely spring day

That's how I feel this morning.

Off on holibobs tomorrow :thumbsup: Tour of Yorkshire next weekend :thumbsup: I'll be there :thumbsup:  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 24 April, 2015, 08:27:11 am
Quote from: Guy on 24 April, 2015, 08:10:48 am
All the trees are green (the trees are green) and the sky is blue (and the sky is blue-hoo)
Came in on my bike as I like to do (as I like to dooo)
If I didn't tell them (if I didn't tell them) I could leave today (leave today-hey)
Cycle touring dreamin' (cycle touring dreamin') on a lovely spring day

Hopped on to my bike like I do all the time
Coming in to work seems such a crime (seems such a crime)
Sitting in an office (in an off-ice) sucks my soul away (sucks my soul away-hey)
Cycle touring dreamin' (cycle touring dreamin') on a lovely spring day

That's how I feel this morning.

Off on holibobs tomorrow :thumbsup: Tour of Yorkshire next weekend :thumbsup: I'll be there :thumbsup:  :thumbsup:

 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 24 April, 2015, 10:05:28 am
Quote from: Guy on 24 April, 2015, 08:10:48 am
All the trees are green (the trees are green) and the sky is blue (and the sky is blue-hoo)
....


Brilliant - Enjoy your holiday   :thumbsup:

Commuted on the new brompton today.
Its slower, probably most noticably in being able to accelerate away from the lights so felt a bit more vulnerable there.
Comfy ride though, and being slower it felt more relaxed elsewhere.
12 km is about as long as I'd like without a break being a newbie on them
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Otto on 24 April, 2015, 10:15:38 am
Very uneventful today although I did discover that my new steed is not best suited for city riding because of the toe overlap
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 24 April, 2015, 10:20:30 am
Nice pootle in. Traffic was ok and the weather was nice. Last night's ride home was even better cos I took the non CS7 way home which took me past By the Horns brewery so I grabbed a couple of bottles of beer for the weekend!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 24 April, 2015, 12:41:21 pm
Last night

Was on the road at about 2045hrs and there was still a pleasing hint of sunlight in the sky. Obviously, this fooled 8 drivers who were blithely zooming along without their lights on. One, I manged to catch in a queue and helpfully point out that her lights weren't on. Her response? "Thank you, kind knight of the road. I don't take enough pride in driving, hence my failure to switch my lights on. I shall rectify this minor problem with all haste." "It wasn't dark when I started driving, so I don't need them on." *rolls window back up* ::-)

Nearly got hit by a driver undertaking flowing traffic in lane 2, whilst on the phone (handheld), and blaring music, and without his lights on.

Got a toot and a thumbs up from a complete stranger. ??? 8)

This morning

Aside from a couple of impatient black cab drivers ensuring their brethren hold onto their reputation as bad drivers, it was a very pleasant ride indeed. I overheated slightly by the time I got to London Bridge, but wasn't too sweaty at the end of the ride.

I think that there was a bit of a tailwind going on too, which was nice. I noticed I was shifting into 3rd gear in a few places where normally I can't comfortably do so.

Lady Bertie has developed a front mudguard crack, right where the mudflap bracket is, and I can hear it making a plasticky buzz :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 24 April, 2015, 01:51:43 pm
Friday brings my first week on the new bike to a close with a total of 76 miles under the wheels. Love the bike (but my arse is still learning a new saddle!). Love the commute. Hope that I still feel as chipper when the weather turns tomorrow!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 24 April, 2015, 02:01:40 pm
Sounds good. Well done Panco :thumbsup:

I'm not on a bike today as I had an off site meeting like yesterday. Did manage to squeeze in a blast up Ennerdale to Black Sail Hut and back on the MTB yesterday afternoon, but I'm missing the commuting routine already. Can you get addicted to cycle commuting ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 24 April, 2015, 02:43:15 pm
Mr Angry Man threatened to 'knock my teeth out' after I'd commented about his earlier driving. I was polite, he used F a lot! He became incensed that I'd gone to the front of the queue after thanking him for his aggression so he drove after me (quickly) passed as close as possibly could the realised there was a queue of traffic in front resulting in an emergency stop then he got out of the car- now obstructing the traffic to inform me of possible changes to my dentistry. I've decided that there are too many of these lunatics out there so as long as I'm safe I'll say nothing and just count getting home safely as a result
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 24 April, 2015, 03:00:59 pm
You should have knocked his teeth out first!

On average cyclists are going to win more fights than they lose. We're fitter, warmed up, and pumped with adrenaline from traffic jamming.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 24 April, 2015, 03:13:13 pm
I'm 55 and astride a Pompino, he was mid-20s, his car in the middle of the road at 5pm and he was ready to 'ave a go' He will always be an angry cock but I'll settle for getting home safely
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 24 April, 2015, 03:51:52 pm
In that case, I hope he tries his bullying in a twenty-something bikie who takes him up on his offer for fisticuffs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 24 April, 2015, 05:21:40 pm
An bicycle can make a very effective self defence tool.

I knows as I was a instructoid.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 24 April, 2015, 09:58:52 pm
Another full house of commuting with over 100 commuting mile.  :thumbsup:

It only requires one day of missing the evening train and riding the whole way home to get to the 100.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 25 April, 2015, 08:09:51 pm
Quote from: matthew on 24 April, 2015, 09:58:52 pm
Another full house of commuting with over 100 commuting mile.  :thumbsup:

It only requires one day of missing the evening train and riding the whole way home to get to the 100.

I think that deserves a hearty BOOM!!! :thumbsup:

Last night

I had a nice ride, though it was long again - such heavy traffic! Had a fellow cyclist stop and comment on how annoying it is to get stuck in proper gridlock. Made me think about it properly, I've never been bugged by it (unless I'm a passenger) - I'm just content to be on the road! Miss Emily said I was a weirdo when I told her later on ;D

Saw more useless 'drivers' failing to make space for an ambulance to get through and a few of them failing to even notice it for ages.

This afternoon

Went into the office to sort out some admin that needed doing. I was having a lovely ride until a bus 'driver' decided to use his vehicle to shepherd me into the gutter. This one wasn't even the standard issue carelessly taking a cyclist to be a stationary inanimate object, he took a couple of very deliberate bites of the cherry.

I didn't have the wherewithal to remember even the reg of the bus. The pull toward that GoPro is getting stronger, as that footage would have been sent to the police and the bus company.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 25 April, 2015, 09:11:57 pm
Not a commute but I rode into town and back for some inner tubes bringing my weekly total to 86 miles. I'd like to do 14 miles tomorrow but have no need to go anywhere so I'd have to resort to recreational riding. Terribly slippery slope that; next thing you know you're doing audaxes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 25 April, 2015, 11:29:34 pm
Quote from: Pancho on 25 April, 2015, 09:11:57 pm
Not a commute but I rode into town and back for some inner tubes bringing my weekly total to 86 miles. I'd like to do 14 miles tomorrow but have no need to go anywhere so I'd have to resort to recreational riding. Terribly slippery slope that; next thing you know you're doing audaxes.

 ;D

You have a new bicycle though, and 14 miles sounds about right for a check ride  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 25 April, 2015, 11:30:04 pm
I should perhaps point out that the only time I have met Pancho in RL was at one of Pam Pilbeam's Audaxen...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 26 April, 2015, 12:41:18 am
Wow, tonight's ride home was weird.

I set out, feeling excited about the journey. Within the first 2 minutes I was creeped out, really creeped out by a strange feeling of unease. The streets were deserted, really deserted, even for The City late on a Saturday night, which certainly didn't help. When I hit London Bridge I was almost in a cold sweat! Traffic built up a little around the station, but by that point I'd totally lost my nerve and called it quits on my journey.

Very dissatisfying, but perhaps for the best!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 26 April, 2015, 10:41:19 am
Clocked up exactly 350 commuting kilometres this week!

Fitbit awarded me an "Urban Sneakers" badge (it doesn't recognise cycling), followed by a "Penguin March" badge.  :D
Moves app continues to penalise me if I have a tailwind or push hard to get to the train on time...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 26 April, 2015, 11:20:07 am
@Mr Onion: chapeau!

I'd be thinking of moving closer to the office!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 27 April, 2015, 10:39:24 am
Sunday morning was a nice ride, very traffic free 6miles to training.

Sunday afternoon I put in the 12miles to get to New Cross Gate. It was a fun ride right up to New Cross Gate, where I was aggressively tailgated by two guys in a Vauxhall Corsa Shed-edition. The bumper was inches from me, complete with slipping the clutch and revving. I had nowhere to go - 2 narrow lanes, the outside was chokka, and there was a high kerb and railings on the nearside. It was bloody terrifying. I didn't dare slow down even. I gritted my teeth and held a strong primary, as that was literally my only option. If I'd moved to the nearside to try and bail, I have no doubt that the driver would have pushed through and hit me before I'd got out of the way. After what felt like a mile (50 meters-ish) there was a side road, I decided I shouldn't signal I was going to take it, so as not to prompt the driver to pass too early. I held my position until I got a clear line and threw myself left. The driver floored it as I was about half way through the turn and zoomed off down the road. The adrenaline was in full flow as was the red mist. I'm bloody fortunate they didn't get caught in traffic within my sight as the flight had definitely turned to fight at that point, and likely I'd have got myself stabbed.

I'm shaking again just writing it out. I couldn't face a proper ride this morning, so I commuted through London Bride and was only on the road for 10mins, jumping at my own shadow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jenhunt on 27 April, 2015, 04:39:19 pm
having had a sadly disappointing weekend cycling wise I decided to commute this morning by bike. (not normal of a monday)

Roads were deserted, genuinely can't remember seeing any vehicles until i was about a mile from work. Lovely morning for it, but i totally underdressed and have only just warmed up (in time to cycle home!).

annoyingly my phone has decided that picking up and holding onto a GPS signal is far too much like hard work, so my 7.3 mile outward journey registered as 4.5  ??? ???, here's hoping it registers slightly more than that for the 7.8 mile return journey. ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 28 April, 2015, 09:16:32 am
Did Lady Luck smile on you, jenhunt?

I was on the road very late last night, about 2345hrs, and couldn't face up to riding to New Cross Gate, so bailed at London Bridge. Same story this morning, in reverse. The scum driving the Corsa from Sunday has left me very rattled.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 28 April, 2015, 09:43:36 am
Woz alright trip in. Bit bloody parky though, the ends of my fingers had turned grey by the end of the trip!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 28 April, 2015, 10:59:05 am
Glad |I looked at the weather forecast before I went to bed. It was freezing this morning so I wrapped up in a midlayer top with a pair of gloves on the commute.

Saying that it was a bit windy on the bike yesterday for the monday night unsocial ride to a country pub & back.  8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jenhunt on 28 April, 2015, 03:30:20 pm
Quote from: Jacomus on 28 April, 2015, 09:16:32 am
Did Lady Luck smile on you, jenhunt?

I was on the road very late last night, about 2345hrs, and couldn't face up to riding to New Cross Gate, so bailed at London Bridge. Same story this morning, in reverse. The scum driving the Corsa from Sunday has left me very rattled.

it did as far as the GPS went... but the headwind and the other road users left a considerable amount to be desired (see note in DOTD)  :demon:

on the plus side, the new saddle is a distinct improvement on the previous one. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 28 April, 2015, 07:09:59 pm
Was very headwindy on the way home!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 28 April, 2015, 09:16:41 pm
I wish a headwind was my only problem on the way home. I made it to Bricklayers Arms and bottled it, turned round and cycled back to London Bridge  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 28 April, 2015, 09:22:52 pm
Jacomus, I've a vague idea of where you commute to / from - it crosses my manor.
Give me a (part) postcode and I can probably give you some useful route pointers which have the potential to stress you less.
Srsly. It needn't be like this.

Oh! And the wind tonight was thoroughly poxy!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 29 April, 2015, 12:00:17 am
Oh bugger, what an awful day.
The slows have been upon me for a couple of years now and I'm used to the occasional regular zipping past me from time to time.  But today I saw all of them.  (Well, their backs).  Yes every single bloody one of them.  They must have been waiting for me or something.
First it's bloody Super Girl on Middleton Hall Road.  She's a rare spot, so meeting her was a sign that they were all out.  She used to put it round me when she rode a MTB - all muscle and grunt.  Now she seems to have acquired some road soot.  Woosh!  Bye!
Col de Warwards Lane.  Woman on tourer with unbelievabley huge panniers, are you there?  No, of course not.  Instead some bloke on an old 70s thing with brake cables coming out of the tops of the hoods, dressed in jeans and trainers flashes past using at least 20" more than I was but at a faster cadence.  I've never seen him before.  How the hell do you do that?
Brizzle Road.  This has never happened before.  All four of the fast guys I sometimes see are either at the lights with me or zip past later.  All of them on one day!  And bugger me, even the bloke who rides the footpath is fucking having a go.  Cue Basil putting in a supreme effort whilst trying to look relaxed and casual.  I'm bloody not having that!
Col de Priory Rd.   Three regulars normally here from time to time.  Do I see office girl in her office clothes and knee boots honking her Dutch style city bike?  Nope.  Do I see nice chatty older (ie 10 years younger than me) bloke?  No, of course not.  Ok, do I see  <whoooosh.  There he went>  Fixie wiv a Barley Bloke.
Right, bugger this.  I'm not having this.  I slam my gear into what I hope is about 70 odd inches and pretend I'm fixed setting of in pursuit.  I don't want to take him, I just want to stay with him.
 Which, of course doesn't happen.

When I get to work, I find that I've forgotten that we're going out for a meal tonight.  I'm only working three days a week atm and when your weekends are longer than your working week, its difficult to remember this sort of stuff.  Bugger!  I was supposed to have come on the train today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 29 April, 2015, 08:54:33 am
Last night following a couple of commuter buddies, got split up filtering at the quadrant, accelerated off the quadrant to pick up mates wheel and........BONK.....the world goes grey and legs turn to jelly, soft pedaled to the bottom of Kings Road where one had waited for me, fortunately he'd got food  :thumbsup: Apparently ca. 350kcal is not enough to commute 38km and do a days work. Idiot  ::-)

This morning, another broken spoke, so that's 2 in 2 weeks. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 29 April, 2015, 09:42:09 am
Quote from: Jurek on 28 April, 2015, 09:22:52 pm
Jacomus, I've a vague idea of where you commute to / from - it crosses my manor.
Give me a (part) postcode and I can probably give you some useful route pointers which have the potential to stress you less.
Srsly. It needn't be like this.

Oh! And the wind tonight was thoroughly poxy!

Thanks for the offer, Jurek, I appreciate it. However, I really like the route I've got - it's just the scrote from the other day that's got me rattled.

I had sucsess this morning though :thumbsup: Got off the train at New Cross Gate and serenely rode in. Very enjoyable indeed and with a bonus of lots and lots of well behaved drivers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 29 April, 2015, 10:00:09 am
I've become more sanguine about people overtaking me nowadays Bazzer. One flashes past, and your 'dander' starts to rise, and then you think: "No, hang on, wait a minute, she's half your age … it's the natural order of things … let it go."

What does irk, is … it's fine in town … no acknowledgement, I can accept that, but when you're cycling out of town, and some flash bugger comes hurtling past, a little civility or human interaction wouldn't hurt would it!!? A nod, a "Morning", or some such.

My commute. Nothing happened.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 29 April, 2015, 11:22:16 am
Quote from: Riggers on 29 April, 2015, 10:00:09 am
I've become more sanguine about people overtaking me nowadays Bazzer. One flashes past, and your 'dander' starts to rise, and then you think: "No, hang on, wait a minute, she's half your age … it's the natural order of things … let it go."

What does irk, is … it's fine in town … no acknowledgement, I can accept that, but when you're cycling out of town, and some flash bugger comes hurtling past, a little civility or human interaction wouldn't hurt would it!!? A nod, a "Morning", or some such.

My commute. Nothing happened.

The kind of nothing that happens in the general vacinity of a ford? ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 29 April, 2015, 12:10:50 pm
Mine is the sort of commute that one might genuinely ask "Why bother?" It's a few hundred yards. Half a mile at the most. My body would be better served if I walked. I sometimes wonder why my awesome powers are waning. However, I enjoy getting on my bike each morning. I suppose I could take a longer route in, and sometimes do, and it also allows me to zoom into town if I want, or make other errands. Bike and me are inseparable.

Addendum: I did scoot past about eight cars this morning as they sat, immobile, behind a refuse lorry. Perhaps that's worthy of note.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 29 April, 2015, 12:49:16 pm
Road rage off a cabbie and sarcasm off an ambulance driver who appeared to be trying to drum up trade.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 29 April, 2015, 02:25:40 pm
I don't normally measure such things, but according to my phone I've cycled 316 km in the last couple of days (since Saturday, and apparently 15 of those kilometres were vertical), so I'm giving today a rest. It may explain why my 50 lengths in the pool earlier were a bit of a effort. I seem to be in some kind of endorphin haze at the moment.

Avoiding the A22 is an improvement and I've become zen with the hill on the way back.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 29 April, 2015, 09:04:42 pm
Rained on me for 40mins on the way in this am. - not too bad, though drying kit was a little challenging.

On t'return, Sunny.  I tested my specs with hydrotac +1.25 bifocal add-ons; work really well.  Though area below top tube begins to get a tad blurry when I'm looking down, but that's OK.

Still amazed at drivers who give me OK width on the road, but - into oncoming traffic - who then hoot or flash at them as overtaker swerves back in... 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 29 April, 2015, 09:57:07 pm
I dodged the rain on both legs today. :-)

Traffic seems busier of late. Almost all of the urban section of my commute is done on the wrong side of the road overtaking queues.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 29 April, 2015, 10:42:30 pm
Oh my that headwind was tough work home. But made it in time to get changed and have a quick bite to eat before my welding class.

It did seem to be overtake like a stupid stupidhead day today though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 29 April, 2015, 10:52:05 pm
On the ride home this afternoon I heard a sound that seemed to be something falling onto the road.  I immediately checked, wallet, phone, other phone (don't ask), smoker's accessories etc, but all seemed present and correct in the myriad of pockets of my jersey and Hummvees.
It was only later that as I glanced down at my Hope Vision that I realised that I hadn't replaced the battery cartridge or my rear Cateye Volt50 after recharging at work.  Uh oh!  I'd slipped them into a side pocket of my jacket which I hadn't bothered to zip up as I was only taking them from my desk to the cycle park.   Doh!
I quickly checked the pocket.  Hope cartridge was there.  Cateye wasn't.  So of course I turned round and started retracing my route.  Thing was, I really couldn't be sure exactly where I'd heard the sound of it hitting the road.

Long story short, I eventually spotted it laying in the road on the dual carriageway bit of the Brizzle Road.  (OK, I admit it, I was riding along the pavement against the traffic flow - there would have been little point in riding legally on the northbound carriageway looking for something that may have been on the southbound). It appeared to be intact, but I watched in horror as a van missed it by millimetres.  After retrieving it I found it to be in perfect working order with no signs of damage.

Phew.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 29 April, 2015, 11:04:23 pm
Oh I thought unclipping felt a bit odd earlier, so pulled up to have a look, both bolts on the left cleat had come alarmingly loose. Done them up nice and tight again and I will try and procure some loctite at the weekend. As well as digging out the glue gun as they've not been on long but the bolt heads are starting to chew up a bit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 30 April, 2015, 09:20:14 am
Glad to hear Lady Luck was smiling, Basil :)

Last night

I went the long way! Yay! All the way to New Cross Gate without a peep of trouble.

It may have helped a lot that randomly I seemed to join a convoy of Police vehicles ;D There sure was a lot of lovely, by-the-book driving going on. Why can't it always be like that?

Oh and at the start of the journey, had an interaction with a nice chap. I noticed him passing me at Bank, very well dressed indeed (made me think of Andrij) and riding a nice black Charge something. He also had a superb beard. Then at the lights waiting to access London Bridge I pulled up behind him and was looking around at traffic and Lady Bertie started to nudge underneath me. So gently I barely noticed it, a bit like the way you can feel the slight nudge through your feet when a bus/lorry drives through a nearby pothole. Just as I was thinking 'hmm, that's really weird, what's going on?' the chap on the Charge turn around and realised he was nudging Lady Bertie with his bike as he waited. We shared a laugh about the weirdness of it and then he zoomed off at quite a clip.

This morning

Rode in from New Cross Gate, yay! Had a couple of unpleasant tailgating incidents and the knock on was definitely felt to the quality of my riding - I was not very smooth and controlled for a while, and did some more aggressive filtering than I usually would. Happily though, I dialed it back for the last stint so finished on a high note.

Spotted Pink Thong Lady again, but it seems that the guy on the Very Orange Orange With Orange Ortlieb has either changed his route or his bicycle :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 30 April, 2015, 09:41:21 am
I had given the fairweather cyclists the benefit of the doubt but having been crashed into by an idiot on a cotic unable to stop and had my back wheel knocked at the lights by someone who couldn't control their bike whilst stationary I think its time to stop. Roll on winter!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 30 April, 2015, 10:06:37 am
Quote from: Basil on 29 April, 2015, 10:52:05 pm
On the ride home this afternoon I heard a sound that seemed to be something falling onto the road.  I immediately checked, wallet, phone, other phone (don't ask), smoker's accessories etc, but all seemed present and correct in the myriad of pockets of my jersey and Hummvees.
It was only later that as I glanced down at my Hope Vision that I realised that I hadn't replaced the battery cartridge or my rear Cateye Volt50 after recharging at work.  Uh oh!  I'd slipped them into a side pocket of my jacket which I hadn't bothered to zip up as I was only taking them from my desk to the cycle park.   Doh!
I quickly checked the pocket.  Hope cartridge was there.  Cateye wasn't.  So of course I turned round and started retracing my route.  Thing was, I really couldn't be sure exactly where I'd heard the sound of it hitting the road.

Long story short, I eventually spotted it laying in the road on the dual carriageway bit of the Brizzle Road.  (OK, I admit it, I was riding along the pavement against the traffic flow - there would have been little point in riding legally on the northbound carriageway looking for something that may have been on the southbound). It appeared to be intact, but I watched in horror as a van missed it by millimetres.  After retrieving it I found it to be in perfect working order with no signs of damage.

Phew.
<Nothing to do with commuting>
On the way to Watlington on Saturday, I was going quite fast down a slope when I heard a loud 'chink' noise like something hitting something else and saw out of the corner of my eye something flying through the air. I stopped and checked - everything seemed to be present and correct. Retraced. Nothing there.

Then I realised I was next to a golf course...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 30 April, 2015, 08:03:53 pm
Well it's not Xmas, but today we had the running of the deer and I _saw_ my first skylark of the year (at Donkeywell farm).  Been hearing them on and off for a week or three now so it was nice to see one.

Irritating click is back.  I expect it's the os pedal again as it always seems to play up at about this time of year. Weird.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 30 April, 2015, 08:40:47 pm
My irritating click is now sussed.  Of course I was worried it was a crack in the frame that I I couldn't find.  I've had a few offs in the last few months and that was worrying me.
This week the clicking stopped and I noticed a big split in the sole of my shoe, just behind the SPD cleat.  The clicking must have been the split when it was ickle.

I hope the Aldi in Carmarthen will have shoes when they do the cycling stuff this weekend.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 01 May, 2015, 09:40:05 am
Longer friday commute from linlithgow. Beautiful morning. Cold (very), sunny and still.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 01 May, 2015, 09:55:27 am
Horrible artic headwind all the way in. No fun!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 02 May, 2015, 02:44:35 pm
Had a slightly meh ride in, neither good nor bad.

On the way home, I was running heavily loaded and wasn't overly appreciative of the headwind! Twas a nice ride though, with some amazing examples of dozy drivers on the road. Luckily none of them did their stupidity near enough to me to be dangerous.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 02 May, 2015, 03:23:00 pm
1 mile into the village to collect from the butcher[1].

Does the responsible cyclist park in (i) empty on-road car-parking bay, (ii) double-yellows directly outside butcher's shop, or (iii) on the pavement? I plumped for the double-yellows today.

This new touring bike has loadsa-gears and I was able to spin my way back up the hill without even breathing hard. I wasn't actually going very fast, though!

[1] Steak kebabs tonight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 03 May, 2015, 10:31:54 am
Quote from: Pickled Onion on 23 April, 2015, 08:05:30 am
The Limehouse Tunnel was closed yesterday evening due to a fire, so there were miles and miles of stationary traffic. As a good boy, I overtake/filter on the right.

A minicab driver decides he's had enough of waiting, so pulls a swift U turn. Unfortunately he forgot to

a) Look;
b) Indicate; or
c) Think.

So now I have some impressive bruising and a slightly damaged brompton. Bah.

My faith in humanity is restored. He apologised and left cash to cover the damage at my office. As not a single person out of the thousands in the traffic jam had offered to be a witness, I was fully expecting him to start arguing it was all my fault.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Otto on 04 May, 2015, 11:00:11 am
On the one hand it's rubbish to be working on bank holiday, on the other had the commute was traffic free and quick... with only a couple of two-wheeld red light jumpers to raise the blood pressure.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 05 May, 2015, 09:17:52 am
Did more cycling than I expected on Sunday, thanks to a diary mishap sending me to the wrong location. However, it was Very Pleasant Cycling so I was happy.

This morning was a bit of a FAIL - I was absorbed in my book, and consequently read through New Cross Gate, meaning that I only had the very short ride from London Bridge. Still, what little it was, it was fun.

I'm enjoying charting the progress of the cleaning of the Bank of England. Every day another section gets cleaner. It's also being done using a cool lorry mounted crane and platform. I should be commuting home in the light tonight, so I'll try to photograph the rig.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 05 May, 2015, 05:54:31 pm
Stone the crows, that was tough. The headwind was bad enough but next to the sea it was side-on. Not high tide but I still got a mud/sand/salt and seawater slurry blasting.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 05 May, 2015, 10:15:16 pm
It was a blustery day. 30% off my average speed.

From Captain Slow to Major General Slow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 06 May, 2015, 10:21:08 am
Last Night

Damn, that wind was strong!

Saw an unfortunate gutter-hugger run out of road at the hands of a particularly strong gust on London Bridge. They were fine, probably picked up a bruise or two though. That's the second time I've seen that happen now.

A yoof complimented Lady Bertie when I was sat waiting at a set of TLs  :)

I picked up a tail on the A2 approaching New Cross Gate, riding a commuteified rigid MTB. I don't mind people drafting me in general, and he seemed pretty swtiched on (I wasn't overly worried about getting rear-ended) but dammit, he sat in my nearside rear blind spot pretty much the whole time and I'm pretty sure he was half-wheeling a few times when I was negotiating busses/parked cars. It's always stressful to have someone back there, when there is so much else going on around you. He continued on when I pulled over at New Cross Gate station.

This morning

I wasn't feeling it. However, I dragged myself out and soon got into the swing of things when I was on the road. I followed a tipper who made use of every second of the bus lane's 'opening' time. He must have been one smug git in the cab :P He seemed to be driving in a very well behaved manner too, which was nice to see.

Shortly before I reached my coffee shop, I got left-hooked by a racing snake and sworn at by another who was unimpressed by my evasive action. Almost a carbon copy of the last time. Not at the same junction though, but it did make me wonder if it's the same two cyclists!

P.s. Dear Mr Pottymouth, 'Fuckkin'ell watch where you're going!' rather misses the point, doesn't it? I *was* watching where I was going, that's how come I didn't T-bone mr racing snake. Perhaps if you weren't trying to count the stitches on my jeans, you wouldn't have had to change your underwear. Hmm? ::-)

Oh, and the mystery substance all over the road near Bank has been identified now that Lady Bertie is parked next to my desk. Overflowing drains. Thank fuck for mudguards, amirite!?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 06 May, 2015, 10:38:23 am
Haven't yet gathered my courage to commute through Croydon again. Will try again at some point. It's tough.

But I had to go between numerous east London sites yesterday, so got what is now a 'Santander Cycle'.

I don't recommend wrangling one of those bastards in the kind of wind we had yesterday   :hand: I feel bloody exhausted today

Anyway, one bloke on Globe Road decided to make me feel at home anyway and pull a classic Croydon-style manouvre (pull out on you with no warning while looking straight at you in a fuck-you-you're-only-on-a-bike kind of way.

I had a sweet, sweet moment, however, when he instantly got stuck behind another huge car that couldn't squeeze down the road (it's pretty narrow, especially when there are cars parked, and there was solid traffic coming the other way) and I got to get off, walk past him on the pavement, glare at him shaking my head as I went past, and then get back on the road and continue on my merry way (he never did catch up, that car was properly stuck).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 06 May, 2015, 03:50:56 pm
OK, I’ll take one for the team.

Tell you what I’ll do.  I’m going to go home earlier today.  This bloody wind will, of course, drop as soon as I get home.  So if you all hang on for a bit and leave a little later than usual, you’ll have a much pleasanter journey.
 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 06 May, 2015, 04:47:04 pm
I ashamed to admit it - but I chickened out today. I didn't intend to - but Mrs P saw me heading towards the bike at 0600 and said "you've got to be joking". Therefore, actually, I didn't chicken out - I was merely following orders.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 06 May, 2015, 04:49:39 pm
A rare cyclo-commute for me today. I dodged the rain and the worst of the headwind on the way in, but timed the return for when there was both sunshine and a strong following wind. Perfection.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 06 May, 2015, 05:35:43 pm
Tree on the line at Bracknell which doesn't affect me directly but might hold a few trains up.  I'm not rushing to Waterloo in this wind.  It was hairy enough over Westminster Bridge last night.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 06 May, 2015, 05:40:59 pm
Came across large chunks of tree on the road yesterday morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 06 May, 2015, 06:17:44 pm
The ride home was one of the worst I've ever had.
The only saving graces were that it was not raining and it was light. Usually when we get winds like that it's autumn or winter.
I had to change down on at least one downhill section.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 06 May, 2015, 08:20:04 pm
F*ck me!
Coming home was like cycling 14 miles up hill.
Or wrestling with the gorilla, where you don't stop until the gorilla is tired.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 07 May, 2015, 03:26:37 pm
On the way in, met a colleague on his fixie so we rode in together. He got a rear wheel p*nct*re and we had 10 mins of comedy gold with a can of Aldi sealant that didn't. Lots of foam from the valve and the puncture so he ended up going analogue and just changing the tube. As he is redundant in a couple of weeks he wasn't arsed about getting to work
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 07 May, 2015, 05:03:04 pm
Quite a lot of new faces on the road today. Or maybe I was just keen to make amends for yesterday's skive and set off earlier. In which case, just how early does the bikie rush hour start? Or does insomnia come with the trouser clips?

Not that these were trouser clip types at all. Had to tell myself off for trying to keep up with a mini roadie-pelaton as soon as I joined the road. Managed a mile or so before I was left with my trouser clips and panniers to pant and catch my breath. Not bad, I thought.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 08 May, 2015, 10:46:36 pm
Wet crotch

With trickling  :sick:

nuff said.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 11 May, 2015, 09:02:51 am
Really suffering today, so slow, blasted lurgy  :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 11 May, 2015, 09:15:02 am
I got up a little bit earlier today, so the roads were quite clear, and somehow I managed to not hit too many red lights!  Amazingly (for me!) I hit a moving average of 17mph.  My normal average is 15mph, with some effort I can occasionally get it up to 16mph, but I thought 17mph was beyond what was realistic with 60 traffic lights along the route.  To keep going at 20mph or so, which I was I need to get the average that high, I have to pedal a bit like a nutter on my 60" geared singlespeed.

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/Av16mph_20150511_200.jpg)

There was a little bit wind of a tailwind, but it was barely 5mph when I was cycling in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 11 May, 2015, 11:12:42 am
On the train at Cheltenham, the space for two bikes is full of bin bags :( the single hanging space appears to have someone's luggage in it :(

Oh well I have a reservation and don't really want to move their luggage so I just hang the bike up and sling the strap on so stop it banging about, so it's resting on their bags but well they put them in the wrong place.  Apparently according to bag owning man I should have got the next train, unfortunately for him the train manager agreed that bag owner was a) a prat considering the huge luggage rack next to me was empty and b) shut up, no you can't have compensation for tyre marks on your suitcase.

Off at new street and head out through Digbeth high street, scalp a couple other cyclists on the climb towards the canal (two panniers, single speed, FTW) and hit the tow path. It's a shame that the council still haven't taken down the barrier for the tow path closure that supposedly ended last weekend as I had to carry the bike up three flights of steps.

Steam round the closure and hit the office roughly on time, my legs feel warm and happy.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 11 May, 2015, 11:14:05 am
Nice one in via Richmond Park to take the commute from 13km to 32km. The weather even let me cope happily with the cruddy driving in the Park.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 12 May, 2015, 02:27:58 pm
Quote from: TimO on 11 May, 2015, 09:15:02 am
... Amazingly (for me!) I hit a moving average of 17mph. ...

... and I did it again!

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/Av17mph_20150512_200.jpg)

I don't think it'll happen a third time tomorrow, it's too knackering keeping the cadence up for that long!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 13 May, 2015, 01:11:57 pm
It seems this was not the day for mitts. I avoided the summer bib shorts, thank goodness, I used the thicker ones today, but still thought I'd be OK in mitts. I think it must have dipped down to 5 degrees or so along some of the A48, not mitts weather for me anyway. There was a lovely view of the opposite bank of the Severn as I was riding across the bridge, all misty with an ominous black cloud over Oldbury power station.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Reg.T on 13 May, 2015, 07:35:06 pm
Third week in new job. Living between Bristol & Bath, my previous commute into Bath was a no-brainer. New job is in Gloucester, so somewhat less straightforward. Have done a few drives and a few train journeys with the folding bike (work 3.5km from station), but the train is very busy between around Bristol.
So today I used my bike again. Morning: ride to Yate station (20km in 45m), and actually could've left the same time as if going to catch that train locally. Then ride in to work.
Afternoon: ride all the way home (68km in 2:15).
It was a perfect day to do a first long commute - cool this morning and bright and warm this evening, with light winds all day.  8)
Will probably do this again, but more likely to do park-and-ride (drive/cycle) once I can get a bit more of a routine sorted.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 13 May, 2015, 07:55:11 pm
I must take some photos of my commute. Riding alongside a flat calm sea at dawn is totally wonderful. I stopped this morning to just absorb it, listen to it, and feel the early sun on my face.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 13 May, 2015, 09:29:52 pm
I was ill on Monday and still suffering on Tuesday, so only did the short London Bridge commute and the same this morn too. This evening I felt good and with a tailwind I pushed on to New Cross Gate. Traffic was free flowing and I pushed hard. Way too hard. I feel pretty destroyed now! Also, I recognised and briefly spoke to a woman who I last saw as a girl back when we were in the first year and I had a crush on her 18 years ago! Even better, she remembered me too! ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 13 May, 2015, 10:17:27 pm
Quote from: Reg.T on 13 May, 2015, 07:35:06 pm
Third week in new job. Living between Bristol & Bath, my previous commute into Bath was a no-brainer. New job is in Gloucester, so somewhat less straightforward. Have done a few drives and a few train journeys with the folding bike (work 3.5km from station), but the train is very busy between around Bristol.
So today I used my bike again. Morning: ride to Yate station (20km in 45m), and actually could've left the same time as if going to catch that train locally. Then ride in to work.
Afternoon: ride all the way home (68km in 2:15).
It was a perfect day to do a first long commute - cool this morning and bright and warm this evening, with light winds all day.  8)
Will probably do this again, but more likely to do park-and-ride (drive/cycle) once I can get a bit more of a routine sorted.
I had wondered if you'd do this; riding to Yate or Parkway seems logical for you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 14 May, 2015, 09:20:15 am
Woke up on time, left the house 45mins late. So had to do the short commute again. Still, it was pleasant and I missed the rain by a matter of minutes, so I'll call that a result! ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moultonaught on 14 May, 2015, 09:55:34 am
That was a really nice commute with a mix of genteel London parks and manic traffic through the road works on Embankment. Both enjoyable in their different ways! ;D Chilly wind though...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 14 May, 2015, 11:13:26 am
Nice ride in. But overcast but nothing to worry about. Besides, it was an easterly - and nothing nasty arrives on an easterly at this time of year, does it?

Oh my sainted aunt! I've just looked out of the window.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jakob W on 14 May, 2015, 02:00:27 pm
Overrunning meetings meant I hit the rain as I headed back without waterproofs for my afternoon's working from home  :(. Think my tyres may be a little underinflated - the move from 32s to 35s has meant improved comfort (and the hyper voyagers I've got are faster than the old tyres), but something about the handling through corners was slightly off. Not enough that I was going to faff with a pump in the rain, mind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 14 May, 2015, 05:10:35 pm
I got home without dissolving - quite a feat given the quantity of water coming down. With no wind, it wouldn't have actually been too unpleasant had I some waterproof gloves and overshoes with me.

I haven't dared look in my pannier at the corporate laptop.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 14 May, 2015, 09:05:54 pm
That was one rainy commute!

At Bank, a chap crossing the road commented "solid beard, very solid mate" :smug:

I had a good run to London Bridge, just after the station I tested the limits of Brompton brakes in the wet. A chap on a hybrid looked comfortably stationary and not intending to pull out to the right. I was approaching quite fast, spotted him and scrubbed a little speed off. With about 2 metres to go, still without a single glance over his shoulder, he pulled away. Que the classic 'whoa-whoa-whoa!' much braking effort and not much braking result! I bumped him very gently, he apologised and neither of us actually quite stopped rolling.

I was off my game for the rest of the journey and hit a few manhole covers. Not something I'd normally make a habit of, especially in the wet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jsabine on 14 May, 2015, 11:20:36 pm
Quote from: Jakob W on 14 May, 2015, 02:00:27 pm
(and the hyper voyagers I've got are faster than the old tyres), but something about the handling through corners was slightly off.

I *think* LWaB said something in another thread about them needing a good bit of scrubbing in before reaching full grip
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 15 May, 2015, 09:24:35 am
*yawn* Slept in. Did the short commute. Appreciated the sunshine.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 15 May, 2015, 09:46:30 am
Ditto. Long, long lie in for me with the sun slanting through the windows and across the bed.

V short commute - walk down hall to study. Thankfully laptop survived so I can shirk from home.

Wish I'd done this yesterday!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jakob W on 15 May, 2015, 10:27:41 am
Quote from: jsabine on 14 May, 2015, 11:20:36 pm
Quote from: Jakob W on 14 May, 2015, 02:00:27 pm
(and the hyper voyagers I've got are faster than the old tyres), but something about the handling through corners was slightly off.

I *think* LWaB said something in another thread about them needing a good bit of scrubbing in before reaching full grip

Hmm, I think you're right - but it didn't feel like loss of grip, just a bit squirmy - I wondered whether it was a slightly soft tyre deflecting laterally wrt to the rim.

Town bike today, and feeling slooooooow - but almost the weekend!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 15 May, 2015, 10:43:56 am
Last night after the AGM of Solihull Scouts, I was preparing to cycle back to digs when I was asked if I was cycling home.

Me, yes
them, I presume to the station and then change at new street
Me, no just down Lode Lane and back to Sheldon
Them, but you could catch the train at Solihull, change at Moor street for New street and then get the train to Marston Green.
Me, or I could ride the 5 miles to my digs and be home in less than 30 minutes.
Them, I thought it would be quicker by train.

Seriously it's a straight line from the council chamber to my digs, or you thought it would be quicker to dick about on two trains, people really have no concept of distance any more.

This morning, I powered up Brays road barely breaking a sweat considering I have both panniers on for the return home. The creaking bottom bracket is properly starting to get on my tits though so I must have a look at that this weekend.

D.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 15 May, 2015, 12:45:57 pm
Quote from: davelodwig on 15 May, 2015, 10:43:56 am
Seriously it's a straight line from the council chamber to my digs, or you thought it would be quicker to dick about on two trains, people really have no concept of distance any more.

No concept of distance that isn't tied to a form of transport, anyway, as few people make the same journey by different modes.  If it takes an hour by train (or car), it must be a terribly long way to walk.  And bikes are basically walking, aren't they?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 15 May, 2015, 01:20:35 pm
It's amazing how your geography is dictated by habitual travel mode. After years of hoof, bus, and tube around London, I bought a motorbike. The modal shift fried my brain as it rebuilt the model of London that resided in my cranium.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 15 May, 2015, 01:28:01 pm
Quote from: Pancho on 15 May, 2015, 01:20:35 pm
It's amazing how your geography is dictated by habitual travel mode. After years of hoof, bus, and tube around London, I bought a motorbike. The modal shift fried my brain as it rebuilt the model of London that resided in my cranium.

I certainly used to think of London as the tube map (plus the usual cunning pedestrian shortcuts, and the odd bus route).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 19 May, 2015, 09:09:09 am
Nice run in to Newport this morning, apart from a slight head wind that got annoying. Oh yeah and I nearly didnt manage to get my feet out the clips as I was trying to hold onto a traffic light, when I realised I was too far away. Luckily they are quite loose bruce  :-\

I know it will be pissing down on the way home though, but atleast the wind will be behind me  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 19 May, 2015, 04:57:03 pm
I somehow lost a trouser clip. As my trews aren't shredded, I'm thinking the memory cells are 404-ing on me and it's probably safe on my desk. Or in a drawer. Or in a pannier. Or on a shelf. But I certainly couldn't find it when I left the office this afternoon. Whatever - I need to buy new ones.

Other bad news - my cheapo headphones have given up the ghost.

Good news - didn't get wet today!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 20 May, 2015, 09:14:35 am
Quote from: Under the arches on 19 May, 2015, 09:09:09 am
Nice run in to Newport this morning, apart from a slight head wind that got annoying. Oh yeah and I nearly didnt manage to get my feet out the clips as I was trying to hold onto a traffic light, when I realised I was too far away. Luckily they are quite loose bruce  :-\

I know it will be pissing down on the way home though, but atleast the wind will be behind me  :)

I don't suppose you come along the shared use path on the Queensway bypass, do you? I couldn't help but smile as I passed whoever it was, going the other bloody way! :-) It wasn't as bad as the bridge though, that was brutal and no way was the wind 17mph! I may have made things a bit more difficult for myself by not noticing that my rucksack's rain cover had come off, and was probably acting as a nice braking parachute behind me. Luckily I noticed when I had to stop to join the A48 just before Parkwall Hill. I was in the small ring along Queensway, maybe I should have stayed in the lanes as it didn't seem so bad there.

Approx 2h 15min for the 31.5 mile trip, which should be doable in 2h or 1:55 with a nice following wind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 20 May, 2015, 09:27:08 am
Had a bizarrely car-free ride in yesterday, which was lovely.

Last night, I was heading home late, but my fears of shitty driving were not realised and I had a very nice ride to the station. There was rain hanging in the air and after the hailstorm earlier in the day I decided to pop my waterproof on. Naturally, this caused it to stop raining and I overheated ::-)

This morning was slow and busy. At the north end of London Bridge I watched a cyclist have an altercation with a WVM, entirely brought on by the cyclist's aggressive riding.

ETA - And also a rider who definitely wins DOTD award for today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 20 May, 2015, 11:25:30 am
I took a detour this morning and went via my "Friday Afternoon" bridge. It was very pleasant. Wind was bloomin' cold though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 21 May, 2015, 10:10:26 am
Lazy ride in this morn, very much enjoying the sunshine and the fortuitousness of hitting that perfect match of clothing + weather + exertion which leaves you comfortable the whole journey.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wascally Weasel on 21 May, 2015, 10:52:17 am
I had a few* drinks last night after work and perhaps cycling home (without incident) was not the smartest of plans, but the ride through empty of people places like Battersea Park, Richmond and Bushy Parks was particularly enjoyable.

It also meant my bike was back home for the ride in this morning, which was really enjoyable in the sun – moving back to west London has really re-invigorated my commuting (as I hoped it would).  I’m on track to do my biggest weekly mileage since early May of last year, and just on commuting mileage too.



*Technically I had hrair drinks last night, in that rabbits (according to Watership Down) can’t count beyond four and count – one, two, three, many (hrair).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 21 May, 2015, 11:01:54 am
Gentle ride in this morning as both calves had cramped overnight. However it seemed to be a bad day for driving standards:

1. Over take cyclist on approach to blind left bend with right hand junction, while the cyclist is indicating right.

2. close pass through right hand bend.

3. Playing chicken with the car coming towards me who pulled out to pass the line of parked cars on their side of the road when I was already by the parked cars.

The second half of the ride (after trains) was impecable.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 21 May, 2015, 10:05:25 pm
And then came the return journey...

ride down to the station 5 miles, for the last mile and a half I had a coach on my tail that hung back in the face of oncoming traffic and then when I was descending at 30mph in a 30 limit it hug back again till after I turned off.  :thumbsup:

It went wrong once I got on the train, late, delayed into the terminus so my 12 minute journey took 22. Came in on a different platform so I had to go over the bridge from platform 12 to 5. Normally I have a four minute connection for a fast train and 12 minute connection for the slow train, well I missed the slow train and had a 25 minute wait for the next fast train.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 21 May, 2015, 10:38:27 pm
Today was the last ever cycle commute to current job.

I think initially I'll be getting the train rather than cycling to new job but I do have plans to at least allow a partial cycle in the future. I'll get settled in first though and see how quickly I can join the Cycle to Work scheme.

A Brompton may be on the cards.  :thumbsup: Which reminds me I must try out my friend's one first as I've heard the handling is very marmite.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 21 May, 2015, 11:07:36 pm
Quote from: Ashaman42 on 21 May, 2015, 10:38:27 pm
A Brompton may be on the cards.  :thumbsup: Which reminds me I must try out my friend's one first as I've heard the handling is very marmite.

Be sure to try both the S-type (flat bars, longer reach stem) and the M-type, preferably including a climb - it makes a surprising amount of difference to the handling.  The P-type is an even marmitier hybrid of the two.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 22 May, 2015, 12:23:54 am
Quote from: Kim on 21 May, 2015, 11:07:36 pm
Quote from: Ashaman42 on 21 May, 2015, 10:38:27 pm
A Brompton may be on the cards.  :thumbsup: Which reminds me I must try out my friend's one first as I've heard the handling is very marmite.

Be sure to try both the S-type (flat bars, longer reach stem) and the M-type, preferably including a climb - it makes a surprising amount of difference to the handling.  The P-type is an even marmitier hybrid of the two.

And, if poss, try a lightly loaded bag on the front.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 22 May, 2015, 06:21:11 am
Noted thanks.

One of my friends has one so I'll definitely try his out and I think one of the bike shops in Eastbourne is a Brompton dealer, at least they are acording to their website but how up to date that is I don't know. Failing that a trip to Brighton may be in order.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 22 May, 2015, 09:22:13 am
Last night

Late commute, I was on the road at 2100-2130.

A very loud comedy moment was supplied by a cyclist whose AirZound must have suffered valve failure sat at a set of TLs.

Despite this time of day normally making for horrendous driving on the Old Kent Road, there was a remarkably little dangerous moronic behavior from drivers. There was a bus driver who thought he was the ghost of Senna reincarnated behind the wheel of a new Routemaster. I noticed him in my mirror rush up (it was scary enough to precipitate adrenaline), but fortunately he was hard on the brakes for the bus stop I was riding through. I kind of forgot about him and partook in some elephant racing with another cyclist. Senna MkII then scorched past both of us, faster than 30mph by my eye, whilst on the brakes. Threw the bus back into lane 1 for a hard stop at the next bus stop.

I hope that they have dataloggers and that they get reviewed, because that 'professional' driver needs firing, or at the very least being forced to re-do his test, stat.

There was some kind of miscreant activity going on a little further down the road in New Cross - lots of sirens wafting around and there were police cars lurking in side roads, or zooming around in all directions, or both! Then I came across two large patches of smashed safety glass in the road, but no accompanying vehicle.

Finally, upon reaching the station, I successfully caught the Mystery Horsham Train and was whisked home in record time.

This Morning

Boring short commute because I didn't pay attention to which train I was catching and accidentally got the direct to London Bridge one.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 22 May, 2015, 09:27:47 am
Nice fast-ish commute in, with one head-slap moment and one "hmmm, cheers mate" moment. Head-slap when I let a 3663 lorry through when approaching Olveston, only for said lorry to take 5 minutes to get through a narrow gap between cars parked on both sides of the road. I popped up onto the pavement to overtake and rejoined the road 20 yards on.

"Hmm" moment when I was overtaken on the southbound A38 by high-cadence cyclist man, who not only didn't lower himself to acknowledge me, but forced me into a drain-dip as he skimmed past. He wasn't even going that much faster. I probably annoyed him by wearing Gola trainers. He had capris and a rain jacket on, he must have been mingin'. :-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 26 May, 2015, 11:45:13 am
Sunday, riding home from training.

I made an error of judgement, that I told myself I wouldn't repeat after the last time it happened to me. ::-)

Approaching a set of TLs at pretty reasonable speed, they change to yellow, I check my mirror and yes, there is a shitty Vauxhall Zafira private hire cab. My spidey senses tingled but, like a responsible road user, I braked to a stop instead of running the lights whilst the thought "bad idea" flashed through my mind. Que the cab driver coming so close to running me down that his bumper touched my rear mudflap.

He informed me of his opinion regarding my intelligence quotient and dubious parentage whilst we waited for the lights to change back to green. Meanwhile, I was mostly trying to figure out whether I'd figuratively or literally shit myself - thankfully the former.

This morning

Yay! I wasn't lazy and did the long commute. Double yay! My clothing choice was perfect for the conditions.

It was a really nice ride, nothing special, just very nice to be on the road. Almost a perfect run, until a MGIF knobber had a crack at knocking me off near my office.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jakob W on 26 May, 2015, 12:19:48 pm
Running very late this morning so took the road bike rather than the town bike to shave off some minutes. Only one minor incident as a parked car decided to pull out without signalling as I approached level with his rear bumper - my shout of FFFFFFFFUUUUUUU!!! got his attention, with a deer-in-headlights face as I passed his window. We were both a bit shaken I think; when he did pass me down the road it was carefully with lots of room, and I gave him a wave of acknowledgement.

Made it in on time though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 26 May, 2015, 05:47:12 pm
Being at the 'Utterly' end of the Feeling Crap Spectrum this morning and leaving home a bit late, I took the shortest, most direct route to work.
Blimey!  That didn't take long.
I haven't done that since some time last year.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 27 May, 2015, 09:26:25 am
Last night

A very 'meh' ride to New Cross Gate. It should have been pleasant, but I just wasn't feeling it - it felt like work not play. Although a woman driving a Conway tipper lorry shouted 'nice bike, mate' out of the window when we were stopped at a set of TLs. :)

This morning

This morning was slightly on the cold side, but not cold enough to want to put my jacket on. I had heavy legs and it definitely felt like a slog. The constant headwind didn't help things much either.

I think I need to drink more water in the evening, I've been waking up dehydrated and drinking 500ml of water on the train before I use the bike. I'm sure that's not helping me feel good for my commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 27 May, 2015, 10:19:03 am
RABBITS!

I have a small downhill section on my run in ;the only bit where I get up to a respectable speed, really! But every morning in the summer months it's scattered with stupid bunnies. I need an Air Zound or a cow catcher.

Today was my nearest miss but still an awesome early commute.

Need to save my legs in case I ride to pub this eve.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 27 May, 2015, 10:33:15 am
What do you mean, "In Case"?   ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 27 May, 2015, 02:18:00 pm
Told a driver to eff off, first time in about 5 years.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 27 May, 2015, 02:28:23 pm
I had a scary moment this morning when a plastic bottle rolled under the front wheel at speed, fortunately it pinged off to the other lane, damn things are so unpredictable in the wind
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 27 May, 2015, 02:39:03 pm
I recently had a plastic bottle slide under front wheel braking, meaning new scars on my palms and a few weeks off the bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 27 May, 2015, 08:52:29 pm
Quote from: Basil on 27 May, 2015, 10:33:15 am
What do you mean, "In Case"?   ???

Definitely needed my legs - couldn't find the pub so rode (what felt like) halfway across Hampshire and home again without stopping. Grr.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 28 May, 2015, 08:45:20 am
Quote from: LittleWheelsandBig on 27 May, 2015, 02:39:03 pm
I recently had a plastic bottle slide under front wheel braking, meaning new scars on my palms and a few weeks off the bike.

Ouch, how was the bike?

Today was a flyer, I LIKE that sort of air movement, hoping to persuade a couple of commuting buddies to form an echelon on the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 28 May, 2015, 10:30:40 am
The Brompton has some more scrapes on its barends and the front bag looks even more secondhand than before.

The crash was a few weeks ago and I finally got back on the bike for last weekend's Flatlands 600. A little uncomfortable but OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 28 May, 2015, 11:01:35 am
A nice longer runin to work this morning, as all the boses are away, so I decided on the scenic route up and over the hills behind us via usk and caerleon, as it was such a nice morning  8)

The only problem was I left my lap top at home, so I had to borrow someones car to go & get it. So no real carbon footprint impact today  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 28 May, 2015, 08:01:38 pm
A little owl at Poulton Fields.  Which was nice.  I hadn't seen one for 2, mebbe 3 years.  One  used to hang around near South Farm on the Salt Way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonyh on 29 May, 2015, 10:58:20 am
Another Little Owl, apparently dazed but upright, on the grass by a quiet lane at a farm. Alert enough to have a bit of a peck at my presented tyre. Hope it was ok.

(I was "commuting" to do stamping duty at an Audax control, on Sunday.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 29 May, 2015, 01:28:26 pm
Looked out of office window and saw approaching storm - so headed off early. Cycled into brick wall headwind (which seems to have now stopped) but got home only slightly damp from the first drops of the current monsoon. I think that's a point to me in the ongoing Man v Weather stakes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 01 June, 2015, 09:44:35 am
I was amused today, when a lorry on the A23 passed me, with possibly the largest warning sign to cyclists I've ever seen. :)

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/small.php?size=480&file=CyclistWarning20150601.jpg) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/CyclistWarning20150601.jpg)

I've seen far too many cyclists going up the inside of clearly indicating, left turning large vehicles, to think that such signs aren't a good idea. :(

Well done Iceland / DHL.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 01 June, 2015, 09:58:02 am
Conversely on the same route (and worse on the A22) I've been passed far too closely by similar large lorries. Perhaps they should stick a big sign on the dashboard warning their drivers only to overtake cyclists when there is both the time and space to do so?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 01 June, 2015, 10:50:11 am
Friday evening

I hit the road at 1750hrs, which should have made for a pleasant commute through a 5 mile long car park. Traffic seemed strangely light as I set off, and indeed, so it remained for my whole journey. Adding to the strangeness, the light traffic was comprised of polite, safe drivers :o On top of that, there was a strong tailwind and I had the most extraordinary luck with every single traffic light on my route turning or staying green as I reached it. By the time I reached New Cross Gate, in record time, I was convinced that I'd made a wrong turn and cycled into the Twilight Zone. This was confirmed when I discovered that I was in time to catch the Mystery Horsham Train home... and had an entire carriage to myself, that was both a pleasant temperature and didn't smell of toilet.

Saturday

I was lazy on the way in and used the short route, and on the way back home again I was primed for a longer ride but a bit of miscommunication led to me taking the short route - for no reason.

Sunday

The dreaded Sunday adventure into the wastelands of Tottenham.

The road between Stamford Hill and Seven Sisters is a hunting ground for knackered Toyota Previa/Estima people carriers driven slowly, but dangerously. These cars cruise slowly, often leaving a smoky trail signifying a poorly maintained diesel engine that was on its way out about 100,000 miles ago but is somehow still limping along. The drivers, gaze fixed glassily straight ahead, trusting in god to guide them. Then there are the numerous, very shiny, 5 year old, silver C-Class Mercedes and Jaguar X-Types, always autos, driven trusting to the guidance of a slightly different god than the Previa/Estima lot, but just as likely to treat you as invisible. The Religious Previa/Estima/C-Class/X-Type are a mostly a filter feeding predator - if you keep out of their way, their forward-only gaze, slow progress and reliance on GodNav should keep you from being eaten.

Then we have the smaller, more nimble and much more aggressive predators - the Hot Hatch. These are apex predators - hugely powerful in comparison to their size. There is a very prevalent disease that infects Hot Hatches, called Small Penis Syndrome or SPS for short. It isn't fully understood how SPS propagates, but its effects are well documented. Unnecessary bursts of hard acceleration and braking, blaring 'music', tinted windows and aggressive driving is a key indicator for a driver infected by SPS. It is usually accompanied by significant and unjustified egotism and an overly entitled mindset. There is not much you can do about these Hot Hatches, as the nature of SPS is so very unpredictable, laying dormant some of the time and then exploding into white hot entitled rage. The only warning sign that you may receive is that you are 'riding in the middle of the fucking road like some kind of fucking cunt'. Unfortunately, this warning only comes prior to an attempt to KSI you if the Hot Hatch is penned in by stationary traffic and can't get at you. Sometimes Hot Hatches on the edge of a SPS event can be detected by smell. If you see a Hot Hatch and can smell weed - don't look directly at it, try to keep it in front of you and don't make any sudden movements. Remember - anything that may impose on the driver's belief that they are superior to everyone and everything can trigger an explosion of SPS.

Another predator, sitting somewhere below the Hot Hatch in the aggression stakes, but above the GodNav in terms of threat posed, is the Almost Certainly Illegal Minicab. An ACIM is a camouflaged predator, that poses as a regular vehicle in order to sneak up on unwary prey. They tend to have a tell-tale private hire sticker, usually peeling, somewhere on the rear of the vehicle. Often an MPV like the Vauxhall Zafira, Seat Alhambra, Ford S-Max. Hunting style is shark-like, with ACIMs likely to skim past their prey with inches to spare. The drivers cannot see the colour yellow/amber at all, so for them traffic lights appear to change from green directly to red. They also can only see the colour red for a few seconds before their eyes desensitise to it - this is why you'll see them nudging forwards during the red phase of traffic lights.

This morning

I fell asleep on the train and woke up at London Bridge, so a short and uneventful commute :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 01 June, 2015, 11:45:47 am
Quote from: ian on 01 June, 2015, 09:58:02 am
Conversely on the same route (and worse on the A22) I've been passed far too closely by similar large lorries. Perhaps they should stick a big sign on the dashboard warning their drivers only to overtake cyclists when there is both the time and space to do so?

I rarely have problems with large lorries.  I worry far more about smaller vans, cars, and the dreaded Private Hire Vehicles, which are responsible for most of my heart stopping moments.  I've actually occasionally got mildly annoyed with HGVs on the A23 who wait behind me a long time, until they've got a very clear area to overtake, but that's far preferable to overtaking dangerously.

Whilst many of the cyclists here are probably aware of the dangers, I've seen cyclists undertaking left turning vehicles, and come extremely close to being squished, when it was blindingly obvious to me that what the cyclist was doing was very dangerous.  I've tried to stop cyclists doing it on occasions, and been ignored.

I'm not claiming it's very common, but I'm amazed how a few people seem to think themselves miraculously immune to 30 tonnes of lorry driving over them.  I'm not talking about lorries turning across the path of cyclists, as much as the rare cyclist who does something very foolish, after the lorry has started turning.  On the instances I've seen, the lorry driver has stopped before an incident has occurred.

(On a related note, there's an interesting short article here (http://www.ctc.org.uk/news/cycling-and-safety-groups-restate-objections-to-tfl-sticker-on-vans-and-buses) on the CTC's site, about "Do Not..." vs "Beware...").
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 01 June, 2015, 12:19:38 pm
I'm not saying that cyclists don't – they do, and consistently, and I'm continually astounded by the dangerous manoeuvers that cyclists make. I do sort of understand it, cyclists are often young and as yet blessed with no sense of their own mortality. Or they may just be dimwits. But the onus for safety should always be on those with the responsibility of operating the bigger machine. The signs, while sensible in and of themselves, do put the emphasis on the actions of other people. It would be nice to think lorry drivers are told in a similar fashion not to overtake cyclists unless there is space to do so correctly and safely.

It only takes one big lorry interaction to scare the bejeebus out of me. The A22 (and I whine about it a lot) is foul, mostly because it's narrow in places. Professional lorry drivers generally make an effort to pass, and in main do fine, but on too many occasions they've either underestimated my speed or overestimated their own, which means oncoming traffic cuts their manoeuvre short. There's nothing so underpant troubling as seeing a wall of articulated lorry slide towards you and the pavement. I've had to break hard once too often to avoid being squished. For this reason, I won't cycle on the road any more. By comparison, the A23 isn't so bad, it's mostly a few lanes wide with ample overtaking space.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Katie on 01 June, 2015, 05:59:12 pm
I got challenged to a drag race by a unicyclist.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 02 June, 2015, 07:41:21 am
A very pleasant ride in today. Somewhat different to normal because I was somewhere different to normal.

http://youtu.be/boQbubUSxqY
http://youtu.be/f3p67onhSoM
http://youtu.be/4aHftm5etfU

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 02 June, 2015, 07:57:54 am
You got overtaken early on!

At first, I thought "crumbs, that Scottish driver's pissed and on the wrong side of the road".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Vince on 02 June, 2015, 08:18:38 am
That was different from normal - ALL the cyclists stopped for the red light. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 02 June, 2015, 08:25:14 am
It is far more relaxed. I got overtaken because I was fumbling with the camera (hand holding a big DSLR whilst riding one handed).
Stress levels are an order of magnitude less.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 02 June, 2015, 09:14:14 am
the second of my trains was cancelled due to a broken down freight train. So it was an hours ride into site instead of 10 minutes on the train and 25 minutes riding. Interesting bit of traffic riding till after the M4 junction.


Bloody wet though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 02 June, 2015, 10:04:38 am
Blamed for the traffic being held up by a moron in a quashkai (?) despite the traffic actually being held up by roadworks and me being the only thing actually moving. Good god some people are thick.

Pretty nice ride in apart from that, plenty of power in the legs on the climb up from digs despite being on day 2 of a 4 day fast.

D.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 02 June, 2015, 10:21:18 am
Working from home today. Glancing outside to let the cat out (!), I think that's a happy coincidence. I do have a short run into the village to do later - and I'm steeling myself to see how my cape/poncho performs in strong winds.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Katie on 02 June, 2015, 10:48:16 am
Colleague arriving to relieve me informed me "its a bit damp". Am now wringing out SPD shoes so that they're dry enough to put newspaper in. Which is precisely as difficult as you might imagine.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 02 June, 2015, 11:09:21 am
Got to the station this morning to hear the announcent that the trains were banjaxed "due to a broken down tree... er, fallen down tree outside Forest Hill" ;D ;D ;D

Hopped on a Victoria service, planning to ride from Clapham Junction but was foiled when it was diverted to Tulse Hill. Everyone piles off the train and I was just chilling out, letting the crowds subside when I heard the driver announce the train was now rerouted again and going fast to London Bride. I leaped back on, along with about 5 other people, before the doors shut and the train pulled out - leaving an entire over-stuffed train load of passengers stranded on the platform/underpass/footbridge. I imagine that Southern is going to cop a hell of lot of grink for that move!

Very windy, but thankfully dry, ride from London Bridge.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 02 June, 2015, 11:12:56 am
Ooh, forgot to mention that last night was bizarrely car-free even though I was riding at definitely rush hour. Is there a holiday of some sort that I'm not aware of?

Also, I saw a cyclist who could have been a forummite - old school fixie, battered Carradice, homemade mudflaps with CTC and maybe an AUK sticker hiding on there. I warned him about a spillage of unidentified goopy brown probably poo that had leaked from a suction tanker ahead.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 02 June, 2015, 11:27:28 am
I absolutely flew in this morning.  Obviously I was 'Feeling Strong'  ;)

Not looking forward to battling the againsterly on the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 02 June, 2015, 11:52:57 am
I must of been going the opposite way. I had to fight with the wind which resulted in a 15minute longer journey! Plus it was lashing down all the way & my feet were soaked, but warm! Hopefully my stuff will dry for the way home.  :facepalm:

Looking forward to the way home when the wind is doubling to 40mph  :hand:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 02 June, 2015, 02:58:14 pm
Got off to a bad start when the l/h pedal (Candy) fell apart :o. Spindle on arm, pedal body on my shoe. Made it in (10 miles) and decided to get the spare pedals but then had to go to a workshop to get a longer 8mm allen key to get the spindle off. Hopefully a better ride home
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 02 June, 2015, 04:06:48 pm
Not a great commute. Had 2 incidents, 1 of which may have been partly my fault. I just seemed to be less aware that I need to be.
Will try to treat this as a decent wake up call and be more aware in future. Weather wasnt good either.

Its dried up now, but its pretty breezy out there which will be a headwind going home.  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 02 June, 2015, 04:27:27 pm
Didn't need the poncho as it had stopped raining. So the "strong wind test" remains undone.

Odd ride back from the doc's. Despite being full of some sort of anaesthetic (I think) and despite having passed out on the deck as I left the consulting room, I had a really strong ride home - and that was *into* the wind!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 02 June, 2015, 04:36:30 pm
Pancho in a poncho!!! ttiuwop

(hope you're ok, too)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 02 June, 2015, 05:58:46 pm
Bloody hell.  That was actually a bit scary.  A sensible person would have left the bike at work and taken the train.  All the tall buildings at Five Ways made the gusts very powerful and constantly change direction.
Actually wasn't too bad once I'd got away from them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 02 June, 2015, 06:44:03 pm
Quote from: Ham on 02 June, 2015, 04:36:30 pm
Pancho in a poncho!!! ttiuwop

(hope you're ok, too)

Well, here's a pic of the poncho. Pancho ina poncho will have to wait (but I might add it to my review of my new bike or my long running return to commuting thread).

(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41UThDSoVGL._SY300_.jpg)

Made by agu and cost about £30 via Amazon http://www.amazon.co.uk/Agu-Track-Poncho-One-Size/dp/B0036WSQCS . I bought it as I have grown fed up with stupidly expensive "breathable" fabrics that aren't, cheap no frills boil-in-the-bag waterproofs that do as it says on the tin, and "sod it, I'll wear my Barbour" overheating.

It seemed prudent to experiment with a cheap version rather than let loose the cheque book in the direction of Carradice or (my eyes; the prices, the prices), Brooks.

It does seem to work quite well. But I have yet to really test it in torrential weather and strong winds. I have my doubts that it'll keep me dry for a 7.5 mile commute to work under those circs. But we'll see. It's certainly "airy" - which is what I was seeking.

It also makes you look like a total eccentric. My children refuse to be seen on bikes with me if ( a ) I'm wearing the poncho, or ( b ) I'm towing the cargo trailer. Kids, eh?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ruthie on 02 June, 2015, 07:05:22 pm
You need a Darth Vader helmet to go with that. Anna light sabre.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 02 June, 2015, 07:09:30 pm
It's been done
(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5292/5686438130_68bec41198_z.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Karla on 02 June, 2015, 10:09:23 pm
I set what I am fairly sure is a new record for my bed to the train: 12 minutes.  My house is a mile from the station.

I was then slightly late to work anyway, as the lack of breakfast meant that my commute's 13 mile bike leg was a bit slower than usual.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 02 June, 2015, 10:30:54 pm
Going in was fun, the rain gave up after an initial sprinkle and the wind, o the wind! I was going to get the train because it looked horrendous but then I discovered that there were no trains, or they were disrupted all the way to Hell (or Tulse Hill) and back. So what the hell, I get out the bike. Anyway, I flew, literally. I would have broken all speed records but for the sludgy traffic getting in my way. I got to Oval and menacing dumper truck loomed up beside me. 'Oi!' says the burly bloke in the passenger seat and I'm here-we-go, what have I done now. Instead he's 'you're bloody fast!' Turns out I'd passed him in Whyteleafe and it had taken him about 18 miles to catch up. Then I left him behind at the roadworks (mostly to avoid a complimentary squashing). For the record, I'm not fast, I think it was a combination of wind-assist and traffic.

Coming home more was more challenging so I'm declaring an unofficial beer night. I tried valiantly, vainly, and desperately to find a route that wasn't into a gusting headwind. In the end I ended up in Mitcham, the fate of all headwind avoiders. Oddly Mitcham Common wasn't as bad as I feared, the trees seemed to scoop up most of the blasts. In the end I was grinding away quite pleasingly, marred by two dangerous passes by the usual urban youth in low-riding Golfs. Hopefully they'll run into a tree and spill what little brains they have over the verge. Oh and I nearly saw a woman squooshed by a left-hook, car decided it wasn't going to wait in traffic so did a fast, random turn into a side street just before Figge's Marsh. Clipped her front wheel just and she got nudged to one side, but she was pretty shook up. I genuinely don't know why people do shit like that. I asked if she wanted me to call the police, but she said why? I had to agree, why indeed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 02 June, 2015, 10:36:34 pm
I had the overtake and squeeze this morning, where approaching a roundabout a car pretended to overtake me when there was not enough room to complete the manoeuvre but, in order to get into the desired (left hand) lane, the driver decided to pretend I wasn't there. Despite the fact that she'd just gone around me.

I moved in front of her stationary car and asked her whether she had seen me. She apologised.

Actually, I have so few opportunities to complain about drivers these days, and this incident was so minor and well-resolved that I know I'm really lucky.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 03 June, 2015, 07:00:19 am
I decided to get back on the single speed (2014 Genesis Day One Disc), since re-taping the bars, raising the brake levers and installing new brake pads. In spite of the fact that it doesn't even fit properly (50mm stem, saddle slammed as far forward as it will go), I enjoy it much more than a lighter, geared bike and indeed was just as fast over my commute route, if not slightly faster. What I lose on the downhills (not much), I gain on uphills and being able to blast through stretches of bad road surface. The uphills are few and far between, and I have to stand up and stomp on 2 of them, which turns out to be faster then spinning on the alu bike for me.

The only downside to the single-speed is there's no flip-flop option, so when a freewheel goes I'm stuck. The last one gave me plenty of warning though, maybe I should listen this time. :-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 03 June, 2015, 07:13:41 am
Skipping yesterday's commute but going in today was wise - the weather was marvellous and the ride perfect. Bit of storm debris - seaweed and shingle - across the road confirms that yesterday would have been grim.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 03 June, 2015, 08:29:49 am
The ride in this morning felt labored and slow- legs felt very heavy.

The 'pooter suggests an error in sensory input. 25:11 for 6.93 miles (including just under a mile of 7-10% uppage) and an average of 16.4mph so, happy with that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 03 June, 2015, 08:44:39 am
Commutes don't come much better than that - fresh after rain, warming sunshine with shafts breaking through the clouds in the distance and a tailwind to boot, simply fantastic  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 03 June, 2015, 09:36:00 am
Yes lovely this morning, with just a slight wind.  8)

On the way home last night I was flying. I beat my record my 3minutes.  :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 03 June, 2015, 09:51:01 am
Last night I was running super late, so had to go the short way. This morning I boarded the wrong trail - it arrived at the same time as the train I was intending to catch, however, it was in fact the train prior to mine, running late. This resulted in going fast to London Bridge for yet another too short commute :( The only upside was that, judging by the confusion and angst on the faces of many passengers who also boarded with me, nobody was aware that this was the Wrong Train.

Southern Failway. Need I say more? ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 03 June, 2015, 10:23:13 am
It wasn't until I looked at my bike at 8.15 this morning, that I realised what the huge BANG we heard at 6.20, was all about. "It's only gone and blown the bloody tyre off!" I said to my good lady in imitation of Michael Caine. The subsequent repair revealed a 12" split in the inner tube. Oh joy.

Prior to this at 5.10, I realised I hadn't put a piece of artwork on to something sent off to a client the previous evening. So a dash into work, and then back home again.

So, two commutes today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 03 June, 2015, 10:27:10 am
I think today was the county 'edge your car out of the side road at the cyclist' day. Every one of my junctions someone was doing this which is rather unnerving. I also hit a lump of shingle* as I was turning into the office car park and almost dropped the bike.

Other than that, and my thighs still being a little sore from Monday's hike, it was a nice ride :-\


*Deposited by a car because the driver would rather park on the pavement and shingle bank than go to the car park and walk a few minutes to their office.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 03 June, 2015, 12:39:36 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 03 June, 2015, 10:27:10 am
I think today was the county 'edge your car out of the side road at the cyclist' day. Every one of my junctions someone was doing this which is rather unnerving. I also hit a lump of shingle* as I was turning into the office car park and almost dropped the bike.

Other than that, and my thighs still being a little sore from Monday's hike, it was a nice ride :-\


*Deposited by a car because the driver would rather park on the pavement and shingle bank than go to the car park and walk a few minutes to their office.

Ugh, a very popular sport in That London, I have noticed it increasing in popularity recently.

Also increasing in popularity is the 'start to pull out when the cyclist gets level with the front of your car' >:( >:( >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 03 June, 2015, 01:00:42 pm
Bus driver decided to overtake to get through a pinch point before me, and as a consequence was far too close for comfort...  I cycled into the bus park 2-3mins later, and had a polite word... Along the lines of 'Mate, you were too close to me going into that pinch point - so I'd appreciate it if next time you'd wait for the cyclist to get through first.  Thanks'   He offered a handshake, so we shook on it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 03 June, 2015, 01:12:42 pm
Quote from: andyoxon on 03 June, 2015, 01:00:42 pm
Bus driver decided to overtake to get through a pinch point before me, and as a consequence was far too close for comfort...  I cycled into the bus park 2-3mins later, and had a polite word... Along the lines of 'Mate, you were too close to me going into that pinch point - so I'd appreciate it if next time you'd wait for the cyclist to get through first.  Thanks'   He offered a handshake, so we shook on it.

Sounds like a proper result there ao, well done :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 03 June, 2015, 05:53:08 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 03 June, 2015, 10:27:10 am
I think today was the county 'edge your car out of the side road at the cyclist' day. Every one of my junctions someone was doing this which is rather unnerving.

Depends what sort of pulling out it is.

1). If the car is already in the pulled out position when I arrive, I do actually have a certain amount of sympathy.  I've driven these roads around my commute a lot.  I know what it's like.  If you wait for a gap, there will never be one. Not till about midnight or something. 
In this situation, I either ride primary with the traffic past them if the congestion means that the flow is slow enough to do that.  Ride round the back of them if clear.  Ride primary and gesture them out.  This is my favourite, as the driver's reaction is often really funny.  They sort of scuttle out in an embarrassed manner and hope that no one saw them being let out by a bloody cyclist.
If it is a bus I always do this if I can.  Their drivers usually grin and thumbs up.

2). As above, but no reason to have pulled out as it's not a particularly busy road.
No compromise from me at all.  I'll stay high on the road, glare and make it obvious that I'm not giving way to impatience.  (Hands covering brakes and bale out options being checked, of course.  Obvious assertiveness helps)

3). The ones that pull out almost into you.
Basil goes apoplectic.  My worst ever "Finishes a Ride in the Back of an Ambulance" was from being T boned.  It was several years ago now, but I've never really got over it psychologically.  I do tend to lose it a bit when people move forward just at that point.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 03 June, 2015, 09:43:57 pm
A pleasant amble into the lab. I am slowly discovering what Netherlands cycling is all about. Firstly you sit up. It is impossible to be aggressive when doing so because you just look silly. So you relax. And the bike is so accommodating that it almost rides itself. This means you only need the faintest touch of one hand on the bars. The other hand is used for other purposes. Eating breakfast, fettling smalls, reading your kindle, holding an umbrella, or texting like mad if you are a teenage girl. All with the insouciance of a mild peramble with nobody within a mile or so.

And cars that just keep out of your way without needing Stern Looks (tm) or even Mildly Assertive Road Positioning (tm). They just behave.

Leaving too soon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 03 June, 2015, 11:13:13 pm
On the way back tonight I had a very close pass by a driving school car doing ~50mph, with basically no room & at the same time as oncoming car.   Anyway, they'll have my email to chew over tomorrow...

Apart from that moment, a good ride back.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 04 June, 2015, 08:55:24 am
Last night an extended commute with a colleague/friend just so that he can get a strava badge before his hollibobs, so that's it -  finally lost the plot, extra miles for transient digital badges, really good fun though, especially blatting down Princess Parkway getting a tow off a very big motorbike with a mahoosive exhaust. Very pleasant around Dunham and Lymm in the sun too.

More sunshine this morning, could get used to this.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 04 June, 2015, 09:40:08 am
Absolutely lovely run home last night  8) Really nice weather. Makes the winter riding worth it. Its all in the seasons etc.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 04 June, 2015, 12:42:40 pm
Mine was a bit windy, especially Queensway. Seems to get stronger as you approach Newport.

Lovely ride in this morning, though my legs aren't really used to back-to-back commute days yet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 04 June, 2015, 12:58:21 pm
Is that the beautiful city of newport in gwent?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 04 June, 2015, 06:50:55 pm
Sound of horn from in front and brakes from behind just before coming into the village tonight.
I know you'd been 'stuck' behind me for sometime, but there really is no way you could see the road ahead at that point. Trust me, I drive it at least as often as I ride it.
And you would have got precisely one bike's length further on as the village was also clogged by lost people, buses and random no waiting cones.
And you don't live in the village as you drove out the other end. We do have a bypass you know!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 04 June, 2015, 07:02:53 pm
Came back the longer, gravel track route today. On my narrow shod road bike, I used to fear this route a bit - it wasn't comfortable to ride and the surface shifting, as gravel does, made me feel insecure. The new touring bike makes this route positively enjoyable. And, in this weather, how could I not go the longer, less travelled route?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 04 June, 2015, 07:36:34 pm
Quote from: Under the arches on 04 June, 2015, 12:58:21 pm
Is that the beautiful city of newport in gwent?

Ex-Gwent I believe. :-) Yes indeed. I come home from Almondsbury and get onto the lanes in Magor and then up onto the bypass off (I think) North Row. It was much better this evening, though a bit warm for me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Diver300 on 05 June, 2015, 07:25:34 am
Bell-end in a red 63 plate murk coupe who overtook while I was tricking up to the back of a short queue at the lights. By the time he stopped, he was about 1 m from the car in front, his front wheel was over the line to the right, and his car was still pointing to the left.

Probably foolishly I got in front and was in front for 30 m or so though the lights, where bell end swerved in on me. I don't think he intended to do anything than prove he was a tosser who though that he was superior.

I tried to remember the number but either I got it wrong or he was on false plates.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 05 June, 2015, 07:59:22 am
Chap at work commented that he'd seen me in my cape this morning; "looked like you'd fallen out of the 1950s".

True. But I was dry. Probably not as dry as him in his 7 series. But dry all the same.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 05 June, 2015, 08:05:39 am
(https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xta1/v/t1.0-9/11389999_10153257838431839_4316509691233989449_n.jpg?oh=d0120903928d8ab1d16f85bcfeb97323&oe=5607136C)

Yesterday... summer!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 05 June, 2015, 08:41:24 am
First day without a gilet, but I did do the armwarmers.

And the rain stayed away, so a win all around
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 05 June, 2015, 08:58:55 am
First day in the spd sandals.  It's been too chilly in the mornings up to now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 05 June, 2015, 09:12:51 am
Quote from: tajasel on 01 June, 2015, 05:59:12 pm
I got challenged to a drag race by a unicyclist.
You can't just leave it at that! We want absolutely need to know more: how far, what was the course, who won? Was there a prize? Race report, please!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 05 June, 2015, 09:20:42 am
Saw that it was proper summer this morning but thought, whet the heck, leave the mudguard bike in the shed and take the roadie anyway.

Got a very moist crevice and damp socks as a result.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 05 June, 2015, 11:05:44 am
Nice, largely breeze-free commutes yesterday. Only trouble was that I was in a merino baselayer and thermal top on the way in, with cold fingers, and just a thin summer top on the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 05 June, 2015, 01:28:09 pm
As I rode home, on seeing signs, cones, and barriers ahead, remembered that for a couple of weeks now I've been riding twice daily past a sign telling that the road will be closed today. It was right, you know.

The work-persons seemed to be in their wagon having a cuppa so I moved a barrier, and slalomed past abandoned barrows, piles of road materials, and standing spades - making my escape before someone could yell "health and safety!" at me. I would have argued the toss if they'd been more on the ball as turning back would have been 7 miles home but carrying on was about 500 meters.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 05 June, 2015, 01:40:44 pm
I've been having more car trouble than normal recently. Don't know why.

Today I found out that my rear brake will lock up, when a driver in a site car pulled out of a stop line straight in front of me. Thankfully I managed to stop in time though not by much. The driver just carried on oblivious. The good thing is he managed to pull the stunt directly in front of a police car. :D

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 05 June, 2015, 03:44:30 pm
Quote from: tajasel on 01 June, 2015, 05:59:12 pm
I got challenged to a drag race by a unicyclist.

A unicyclist near here ended up under a bus the other day :'(  I couldn't help but wonder is it was the same chap who I'd seen sitting outside the Lord Palmerston a couple of days before being ranted at by a muggy bonehead whose vocabulary consisted mostly of "Poles", "fucking" and "gwarrgh".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 08 June, 2015, 07:29:45 am
Another day of commuter hell!

(http://i.imgur.com/UNks90o.jpg)


(http://i.imgur.com/SWRI4i8.jpg)

Just another Monday morning on NCN Route 2!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 08 June, 2015, 08:02:13 am
[Python]
You lucky, lucky bastard.
[/Python]
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 08 June, 2015, 09:25:44 am
A fine commute, marred only by a WVM who pulled out on me.

I was on my way round the RAB, approaching the exit I wanted. WVM pulls up aggressively in the on-slip before my turn, then accelerates hard pretty much directly at me! I drop the anchors hard and stop, and he stops too, a couple of feet from my leg. If he hadn't stopped, I'd likely have hit the side of his van, or worse, if I hadn't braked I'd have gone under the front. He went apoplectic, shrieking his rage my temerity to have stopped, to be on the road, to exist.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 08 June, 2015, 09:57:41 am
The new route over Tweseldown, south of Woking and through Walton was very fine today, not too much traffic and the lights were with me most of the way (except between Battersea and Lambeth).  Could (almost) forgive the bloke in a black van who turned left into a cycle lane without looking.  The legs were working really well too, so the hills of the Kernow & SW must have done me good.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 08 June, 2015, 11:13:00 am
Not a good day;

Climbing up from the station, a mile of steady drag through a series of long curves, and the articulated lorry behind kept picking up the engine note to pass without sufficient visibility. He would then have to back out when a car appeared round the bend. At the third or fourth attempt he got his cab along side my rear wheel when the car appeared so I resorted to a sprint to get out of his way and jumped ~40% quicker till there was enough visability to pass.

Grovelled the rest of the way up the climb and for the commute as the adreniline fueled sprint took too much out of my legs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 08 June, 2015, 02:08:47 pm
Quote from: hatler on 08 June, 2015, 08:02:13 am
[Python]
You lucky, lucky bastard.
[/Python]

:-)

I think I'll go the longer route home as it's even quieter.

Maybe I should a pic of my commute to recruiters when they don't understand why I don't want a job in London even for megabucks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 09 June, 2015, 11:08:15 am
I spent the morning chasing / being dropped by other cyclists.

Fast guy went past as I came out of the estate, I only caught him as on coming traffic held up his right turn but not mine. Was then dropped on the rise to the level crossing but had just held 110% of normal pace to catch /stay with him.

Then in the second part of the commute two guys on soot came past whilst climbing out of the dip, and away they went and I couldn't catch them again. Mind I was on the Hewitt with front and rear racks, mudguards and 32mm tryes. But still I lost two different commuting races today.  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 09 June, 2015, 01:25:37 pm
Lovely ride in this morning. Sun shining with hardly any wind. Probably means It will be all the way home though. I might actually go a different way to miss a busy hill, but go down the lanes through Mathern on the NCN4. Yes I think I will, as it is pretty close sometimes with the tip artic lorries!  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 10 June, 2015, 07:36:19 am
Quote from: Under the arches on 09 June, 2015, 01:25:37 pm
Lovely ride in this morning. Sun shining with hardly any wind. Probably means It will be all the way home though. I might actually go a different way to miss a busy hill, but go down the lanes through Mathern on the NCN4. Yes I think I will, as it is pretty close sometimes with the tip artic lorries!  :facepalm:

I go through Mathern on the way home. The road is not the best, it's largely traffic-free though. It always took me so long to get onto the A48 at the top of the Pwllmeyric hill because of the constant traffic at rush hour, and you can bet that, even though it's possible to get near the 40mph speed limit, there will always be someone 2 yards from your back wheel, on a fast descent into a built-up area. Not much fun IMO. On the way in I stay on the A48, but divert onto the pavement halfway up the hill before the road gets twisty with double white lines. I know it's naughty but there's no-one around before 6am. The way up through Mathern looks more difficult to me, although would likely be deserted at my o'clock. Not sure Mathern is on NCN 4 though, is it? Mounton is, just North of the A48/A466 roundabout. I used to go that way, but now I get back onto NCN 4 just before Parkwall Hill and brave the "pave"-esque farmers' roads until Crick.

Pretty good commute in today, I and my legs woke up a bit and I put in a decent time once I was out of Newport.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 11 June, 2015, 02:01:54 pm
You must be local to me? Yes I meant Mounton? You say Mounton I say Mathern lets call the whole thing off. This is a bit embarrasing as I live right by there!  :facepalm:

Do you go all the way down the A48 to Newport? as it isnt too bad. The worst bit is by the tip especially in the winter when it is pitch black by there!  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 11 June, 2015, 02:57:30 pm
Looking out of the window, I think I should have brought some suncream for the ride home today 8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 11 June, 2015, 06:34:06 pm
Quote from: Under the arches on 11 June, 2015, 02:01:54 pm
You must be local to me? Yes I meant Mounton? You say Mounton I say Mathern lets call the whole thing off. This is a bit embarrasing as I live right by there!  :facepalm:

Do you go all the way down the A48 to Newport? as it isnt too bad. The worst bit is by the tip especially in the winter when it is pitch black by there!  :o

I'm in Newport. I found the A48 between 5 and 6pm to be a bit dicey, so I add about 5 miles to the short route by going into Caerwent, down into Caldicot, along the back lanes until Severn Tunnel Junction, down the main road (bypass?) into Undy and then around the back of Undy back onto NCN 4. Then up onto Queensway after coming out of Redwick. In the morning the A48 is pretty deserted so I go the short way.

Looking forward to the warm ride in tomorrow. We'll have to say what the afternoon brings though, could be warm but wet on the way home..
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 11 June, 2015, 07:08:42 pm
Hot ride home. First proper warmth of the year really. Lovely.

Not so lovely was the ape driving a Vauxhall (or other non-descript motorcar) who screeched at me. First time since my return to the commute 10 months ago. In fact, I can't really much in the way of twat-tastic oiks even when I was a 25 mile a day car-free-er. It saddens me to join the chorus of negatives on this thread (but hopefully it'll be another decade before a recurrence).

Didn't quite catch what he said (well, I can hazard a guess) but have mentally re-wound the ride back from that point and reckon I sailed through ped crossing traffic lights and cut him off from joining from a side road. He probably thought I'd run through on red  ('cos I'm a bikie, natch) whereas, I'd just timed my run past the queue of tinned-fat-people to catch the new green to the mili-second.

Silly sod. Didn't spoil my day though (once my fight-or-flight had accepted the fact that there was no way to catch him so the fight was probably not going to happen).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 11 June, 2015, 08:51:42 pm
Work bound, 06:01, B52 taking off from Fairford eastbound(ish).
Home bound, 15 miles of headwind.  Feh!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 11 June, 2015, 08:53:39 pm
Finally some sun and an easterly wind so although I left work late it was not that bad.

Saw quite a few people wobbling with panniers, which looked scary in traffic
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 11 June, 2015, 09:00:52 pm
A B52 at dawn - fantastic sight to start the day. I love it when I see something new, unusual, or simply spectacular. Usually ships in my case. Or weather and seas (particularly where they meet the road).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 12 June, 2015, 08:38:01 am
Reminds me of a take off I filmed-

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Sr195AT0zQ
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 12 June, 2015, 10:35:24 am
Over the last 2 evenings I've proved that rushing really makes no appreciable difference to your journey time, but it does make a difference to your stress levels. It's one of those things that you already know, but kind of forget over time, until you are reminded of it again.

On Wednesday evening I departed at 1751 trying to catch the 1824 fast train out of New Cross Gate, just a shade over 5 miles. I rode flat out and arrived at the station at 1819. I then missed the train thanks to the incompetence of the NXG station staff who didn't bother reporting a change of platform until <30s before it departed. >:(

Journey time: 28 mins
Average speed: 11.1 mph
Stress level: 8/10

Yesterday I did the same journey, trying to catch the same train. Departing at 1754 to catch the 1824 train. This time, I had no special reason to catch that train, it's just a faster, nicer journey. I rode in zen mode the whole way.

Journey time: 25 mins
Average speed: 12.5 mph
Stress level: 2/10

The journey yesterday evening also involved heavier traffic than the previous day, yet I was slightly faster and much, much happier at the end of the ride, and I caught the train I wanted.

The only downside on the ride was a nasty bit of tailgating from a bus driver and a very special jerk driving a black cab.

I was riding in a bus lane, a bus about 20m ahead of me. On come the brakes + indicator as the bus goes for the stop. The cabbie is nonchalantly cruising in the normal lane at this point, and checking my mirror, I thought to myself that he was a gentleman of the road - assessing the hazard ahead and leaving space for me to pull out smoothly. Was he fuck! In reality, it turns out this his assessment of the situation was just slower than mine. As I did a blindspot check and signaled to move right, he floors it and comes alongside. Where he sits, matching my speed. I slow down, he slows down. I slow down more, he matches. His fun little game was to shepherd me right to the bus and prevent me going past. >:(

I just laughed and waved as he stared at me, rictus grin on his face turning to a sour expression and a delightful heart-attack shade of puce.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 12 June, 2015, 01:35:31 pm
After for ages at some lights, they finally go green. I set off and am making good progress. After a couple of hundred metres I look back and jump - there's a bloke on my back wheel.

I maintain a steady pace and not long after indicate left and turn off.  He carries on: "thanks very much. That was the best back wheel I've had for ages."  I recognised him as Sweary Nigel who runs the LBS. A gnarly racer back in the day I believe. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 13 June, 2015, 07:17:40 pm
I just checked some of my commute stats and although there is a probably a margin of error I finally managed to commute in by just under one hour (well by 8 secs), so that is nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 15 June, 2015, 10:06:50 am
My first train ran late today and I missed the connection, so ride to site from the station including over M4 junction 11!

Was just quicker than waiting for the next train and I was carrying cake for the team so rapid refreashment is available.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Katie on 15 June, 2015, 01:48:28 pm
Lovely woman who swerved out of the way of a car in front, directly into my path but thankfully slowly enough that I could swerve and stop myself, due to us approaching a set of red traffic lights… involuntarily, as I stopped directly next to her window, I did a "look where you're going!" gesture at her, and she wound down the window to yell "I did see you but it was his fault!" pointing at the BMW speeding off into the distance …

Whilst I had some sympathy for her, my inner cynic quickly took over again and replied "so what you're saying is that you saw me and decided if you were going to hit someone you'd rather it be me? Presumably because you're not going to injure to anyone at 5mph but I'll do less damage to your paintwork than another car will?"

Her response was a most eloquent "oh eff off!" before winding the window back up and staring directly ahead until the lights changed (and then cutting me up again because she realised too late that she was in the wrong lane the whole time.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 15 June, 2015, 01:57:53 pm
First day in our new office today so a slightly different route in (no long downhill at the sea to finish)

I arrived to find a drying room, shower and big covered bike store full of Sheffield stands! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 15 June, 2015, 03:13:02 pm
Quote from: tajasel on 15 June, 2015, 01:48:28 pm
Lovely woman who swerved out of the way of a car in front, directly into my path but thankfully slowly enough that I could swerve and stop myself, due to us approaching a set of red traffic lights… involuntarily, as I stopped directly next to her window, I did a "look where you're going!" gesture at her, and she wound down the window to yell "I did see you but it was his fault!" pointing at the BMW speeding off into the distance …

Whilst I had some sympathy for her, my inner cynic quickly took over again and replied "so what you're saying is that you saw me and decided if you were going to hit someone you'd rather it be me? Presumably because you're not going to injure to anyone at 5mph but I'll do less damage to your paintwork than another car will?"

Her response was a most eloquent "oh eff off!" before winding the window back up and staring directly ahead until the lights changed (and then cutting me up again because she realised too late that she was in the wrong lane the whole time.)


"If it comes to a choice between hitting a wall or hitting spectators, I'll take the spectators every time. People are squashy" - Paul Hawkins on the Targa Florio
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Otto on 15 June, 2015, 03:48:26 pm
Rubbish commute today. All the lights on red, all the sodding buses pulling out and blocking the lanes.... then my chain jammed so solid I had to take off the front mech to get it free. STRESSSSSS
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 16 June, 2015, 03:19:28 pm
Stupid close pass by a Hall & Roche lorry on the B4245 between Rogiet and Undy yesterday. No need on this road, wait a few seconds and give me more room as 95% of drivers seem to be able to do!

Then I was on the Newport riverside shared use path coming around the old dock with the gravel, and nearly (very slowly) ran into a dog. Gave a perfunctory "sorry!" to the owner, more out of habit as the mutt was off-lead, and got a load of mouth back. So I reciprocated. Doh! Never a good idea, never makes me feel better plus I don't mind dogs being off lead as it's all about give and take IMO. I would have taken a tumble before harming the dog.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 16 June, 2015, 10:09:20 pm
Arrived home tonight and realised that I was sans wallet and Nexus tablet.
Well, I can manage an evening without either but I couldn't be sure if they were still locked in my drawer,which would be fine, or whether I'd got them out and then left them on my desk, which wouldn't.
So back I went.

As I was riding, I dedicated the extra energy I was using to Teethgrinder.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 17 June, 2015, 09:00:22 am
A bit damp, grey and windy today. Traffic was busy again, and was riding my audax bike, moving faster and clipped in compared to normal commuter.
Tried to be extra careful to anticipate where I'd need to take quick actions a bit more.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 17 June, 2015, 09:40:46 am
Overtook someone! Someone wearing lycra and a plastic hat! TBF, I think I snuck up on her while she admired the view and listened to the birds. At least she was on a proper bike with panniers and a stand so I didn't feel too bad.

Enjoyed the commute so much I whiled away my first coffee by planning a longer ride home. Looks fantastic - but at 30k maybe one for a Friday or even a weekend circular recreational ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 17 June, 2015, 10:10:50 am
Since Mrs S has changed her hours and I've been woken up at 5.30 I thought I'd do something useful with the time and extend the commute to 26km through the back of Altrincham, need to work on the timings a bit, was too early at work, so might extend it a bit more.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 17 June, 2015, 11:13:09 am
Bit damp for the first time in a while, and the roads were a little greasy in places (won't be now, it's chucking it down outside atm). Three commutes have shown that while the distance is 0.5 miles shorter, the difference in profile means it takes the same time to ride. On the way home I've lost a long shallow uphill so that is a lot quicker.

The shower is now working in our new office and I've had my first go with it. Compared to changing in a toilet cubicle it's a vast improvement. Now I'm thinking I can extend my morning commute a bit instead of trying to balance the ride and getting too sweaty :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 17 June, 2015, 07:59:14 pm
Really nice ride home overall.

Riding past the fresh scrapes in the tarmac from this mornings lorry-cyclist collision at London Bridge was very sobering.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 17 June, 2015, 08:34:31 pm
Lots of SMIDSYs and lemming pedestrians today. Ironic, as I was wearing my yellowest top.

The last was a guy on foot jinking through traffic towards the train station - he sidestepped the car in front of me, looked straight at me, and kept going. I whoa-ed and braked, we both swerved, it was fine, and I shouted "hope you catch your train!" after him.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 17 June, 2015, 09:32:00 pm
Saw a very large dead adder on the road this afternoon. At least, I think it was dead. Gave it a v wide berth just in case. The idea of one those slithering up your trousers is sobering. And a good argument for those trouser clips I bought off Fruitcake.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 17 June, 2015, 09:46:36 pm
It goes without saying that Fruitcake should endorse his (her?) trouser-bands as adder resistant, given your experience  today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 17 June, 2015, 10:07:01 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 17 June, 2015, 09:46:36 pm
It goes without saying that Fruitcake should endorse his (hers?) trouser-bands as adder resistant, given your experience  today.

Inna W C Fields stylee?

Quote
Always carry a flagon of whiskey in case of snakebite and furthermore always carry a small snake. And if you don't have a flagon of whiskey, Fruitcake trouser-bands are an ideal substitute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 18 June, 2015, 07:04:29 am
Quote from: Deano on 17 June, 2015, 08:34:31 pm
Lots of SMIDSYs and lemming pedestrians today. Ironic, as I was wearing my yellowest top.

The last was a guy on foot jinking through traffic towards the train station - he sidestepped the car in front of me, looked straight at me, and kept going. I whoa-ed and braked, we both swerved, it was fine, and I shouted "hope you catch your train!" after him.

Is it ironic that I couldn't read the highlighted text? I'll have to ask Alannis! :-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 18 June, 2015, 10:47:25 am
Another nice, easy ride this morning.

The only downside was that the temperature was slightly too low for short sleeves but I was a sweaty mess at the end of the journey!

Also, flies! Bugger off!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 18 June, 2015, 12:25:29 pm
Pissing it down here this morning.

Cape/poncho did it's job splendidly and is slung over bike drying in glorious sun that came out as I arrived at work!

If weather holds may add some miles and try the BRT bus road to Gosport this eve.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 18 June, 2015, 05:02:26 pm
Must have done 30k or more as a homebound commute today. F..cking brilliant!

Into Fareham,down the busway and along the harbour edge to Gosport then follow the coast home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 19 June, 2015, 09:20:32 am
31km and still too early, must start later go further  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 19 June, 2015, 12:44:49 pm
Last night on what was otherwise a fun ride, there a crunch and graunch sound slipped into my ears. I could have sworn that I hadn't run over some debris and carried on. A couple of times I noticed that Lady Bertie was handling strangely, kind of loose and wobbly - enough that I was seriously concerned that one of the frame clips was coming undone :o

I pulled over and checked them, both done up nice and securely. I shook it off, putting it down to a combination of blustery cross wind and carrying a six pack of non-alcomoholic beers over the front. The disconcerting wobblyness carried on, and I noticed it was pronounced on fast stretches with undulations in the tarmac. I stopped again, suspecting a visitation on the rear. Nope. But what's this? A spoke had snapped. Bugger.

I finished the journey slowly and took the short route in this morning, and noted that even without the weight on the front carrier, Lady Bertie was still noticeably unsettled over undulating tarmac. So I wasn't just imagining it! Yay!

Anyhoo, she's now going to spend the weekend in the bike shop and I'll get her back on Monday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 19 June, 2015, 07:03:04 pm
One I really hate this morning.  The attempted overtake on a 90 degree left hand bend.
I could tell she was going to try it by the engine note and so I tried to stay primary to ward her off.
Not primary enough.   
Round she came.
You know how it works. The front end passes with grudging minimal clearance.  The back end clips the curb and cyclist.  Luckily I was able to rest my right shoulder on the car and escaped from the bend undamaged.
Big shout from me as it was happening, but I'm afraid I used the cunt word (extremely rare for me) when I pulled up alongside at the next lights.
Thousand yard stare. 
Yeah, OK, probably best
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 19 June, 2015, 07:26:19 pm
I hope and expect that the good days outweigh the bad days for you as they do for me, Basil!

A dim bird in a massive car/truck thing[1] squawked at me "there's a cycle path over there, you know" yesterday. Being a glass half full type of bloke, I think she was trying to be helpful. Sadly light cycles aren't long enough to contain a lecture on the inadequacies of a 1 metre wide pavement replete with drives, side roads, and an assortment of street furniture.

But it was still a good day. A great day, in fact.

[1] Is "crew cab" the term? With a covered back end. Almost ask big as the ASDA delivery truck that hung back for ages and then gave me an exemplary overtake ahead of her.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 19 June, 2015, 08:22:38 pm
I got U Boned as I filtered past a queue of traffic on Quarry Wood Road.

I was doing about 10 mph and was just outside the door zone of the queue. As I started to overlap a Seat Leon it decided to throw a right. I hit the brakes and threw in a bit of right steerage but still hit the rear offside door. She kept moving and the 'Dale and I slid gracefuly (in fact that is prolly bullshit and should read 'gracelessly') along the side of her car and collapsed in a tangled heap on the floor. As we landed I heard the driver say "I've just hit a cyclist" which was followed by a male voice on the other end of a hands free phone conversation say "What, you've hit one?"

A couple of other drivers from the queue rushed over and helped untangle me from the 'Dale and as the driver got out she was very apologetic saying sorry and how she did'nt even check her mirrors- proper taking responsibility. We exchanged details and I insisted that I felt OK, a bit of a sore knee but OK. She offered to drive me home, as did one of the other drivers but I said that as long as the bike was OK I would ride as I was only a few minutes from home.

She insisted that if any damage needed repairing that I call her and we will sort it.

The 'Dale had bars that were slightly twisted and the left hand STI is also a bit twisted but apart from that he looks fine. A quick health check at the bike shop whilst I'm working tomorrow will clarify.

I have a slightly scuffed and sore left knee, a stippled shoulder and my left wrist is a bit tender but I have felt worse after a night policing the night time economy so could be worse. The driver has just phoned to see how I am now and to apologise again.

Scuffage-
(http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b360/mattlangridge/Photo0109.jpg) (http://s23.photobucket.com/user/mattlangridge/media/Photo0109.jpg.html)

Stipplage-
(http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b360/mattlangridge/Photo0104.jpg) (http://s23.photobucket.com/user/mattlangridge/media/Photo0104.jpg.html)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 22 June, 2015, 07:13:42 am
GWS, matey. That looks like a proper bikie style set of scuffs. Wear with pride!

My prangs, big or small, invariably result in sartorial damage - so hope your commuter clobber survived.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 22 June, 2015, 07:27:10 am
More rain for me today. And the more rain, the more highly I rate the cycling cape as the most sensible bike rainwear. The only problem with mine is that the hood has no peak. And as a speccy-four-eyes this is a problem. The solution, I hope, is a traditional souwester hat from Ortlieb - soon to be ordered.

More evidence that some people don't turn evil when they get behind the wheel today. Quite a few oncoming drivers stopped and waited for me to pass before driving through mega puddles and sending sheets of water up and across the road. As capes don't provide much protection from this sort of attack, their consideration was much appreciated. Unfortunately, wearing a cape also meant it was not possible to give a thumbs up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jakob W on 22 June, 2015, 07:46:22 am
I tend not to bother with the hood on my Carradice cape and wear a cycling cap instead - the peak keeps the worst of the rain off my specs and my head warm. I'm not fussed about waterproofing as such, as I can always towel my hair afterwards.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 22 June, 2015, 07:54:24 am
Quote from: Pancho on 22 June, 2015, 07:27:10 am
More rain for me today. And the more rain, the more highly I rate the cycling cape as the most sensible bike rainwear. The only problem with mine is that the hood has no peak. And as a speccy-four-eyes this is a problem. The solution, I hope, is a traditional souwester hat from Ortlieb - soon to be ordered.

More evidence that some people don't turn evil when they get behind the wheel today. Quite a few oncoming drivers stopped and waited for me to pass before driving through mega puddles and sending sheets of water up and across the road. As capes don't provide much protection from this sort of attack, their consideration was much appreciated. Unfortunately, wearing a value also meant it was not possible to give a thumbs up.
A souwester from Ortlieb ?!!??  Surely you have at least a couple of good LCs (Local Chandlers) for that kind of gear.

Look !  (http://www.musto.com/sailing-clothing/caps-headwear/breathable-souwester-red.html) They even make breathable ones these days.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 22 June, 2015, 09:28:23 am
I'm really missing Battersea Park right now. As soon as this Formula E race nonsense is over I'll be glad to get off the roads around the park, which really are shit. Also riding past that enormous empty pavement along Albert Bridge road, knowing that the bit by the bridge is a cycle path, but the bit alongside the park is for some reason, not., just maddens me.
I hate being stuck in heavy traffic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 22 June, 2015, 09:30:46 am
Those hats are really good - the long rear keeps water from going down the neck.  I only wear mine in 'proper' rain but it works spendidly.  Would recommend.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 22 June, 2015, 09:33:45 am
long ride in as I had to go via my base office, this meant no sensible train option for the middle of the ride so I had 1:15 minutes and ~20 miles today.

Typically it rained just as I left the office.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 22 June, 2015, 09:56:46 am
Back on commuter bike after sorting out the front brake this weekend. Cool stop pads were down to the metal.
Ride in was cool, 12C at start of ride and just after a shower. Really doesnt feel like summer.  This time last year I was commuting in my sandals.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 22 June, 2015, 12:20:41 pm
I've used my sandals only once this year.  It just isn't warm enough in the mornings.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wascally Weasel on 22 June, 2015, 01:16:04 pm
Quote from: alexb on 22 June, 2015, 09:28:23 am
I'm really missing Battersea Park right now. As soon as this Formula E race nonsense is over I'll be glad to get off the roads around the park, which really are shit. Also riding past that enormous empty pavement along Albert Bridge road, knowing that the bit by the bridge is a cycle path, but the bit alongside the park is for some reason, not., just maddens me.
I hate being stuck in heavy traffic.

You can stll ride through the park, they've got a route through with people waving you throuhg.  It's not great but preferable to the alternative, at least on the ride in.  I tend to ride along the road as far as Albert Brideg on the way home.

But, yes another week and a bit with all the get out time.  Not great.

I did ring the council and ask if they would temporarily permit (considerate) cycling along the broad path by the river but no luck.  I'm pretty sure that would involve less people.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 22 June, 2015, 09:34:31 pm
Wind was a bit savage and nearly got knocked down twice by people overtaking me and then turning left without looking.

Thankfully made it home in one piece. Shorts a bit brown though. ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pedaldog. on 22 June, 2015, 11:16:18 pm
Look !  (http://www.musto.com/sailing-clothing/caps-headwear/breathable-souwester-red.html)

Nice Find, just ordered one!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 23 June, 2015, 10:40:56 am
Very windy yesterday on the way home. I don't know if it's just me, but a moderate 10-15mph wind on parts of a 30-miler can slow me down by 10 minutes at least. The Severn Bridge spooks me a bit, it's as if it REALLY wants to keep me prisoner there, for all eternity. The wind seems to increase in ferocity as I get close to dry land.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 23 June, 2015, 12:25:57 pm
An eventful ride in this morning. After nearly being wiped out by oncoming traffic on a roundabout by Parkwall, on the A48. Then the best was to come, in the centre of Newport I was going round the roundabout by the railway station, and a 4x4 coming from the railway station decided to carry on without stopping, nearly hitting me. Luckily I swerved out the way and sent forth a load of abuse.

He then seemed to think it was then ok to try and ram me with his 2t 4x4 against me on a bike. So I decided to stop, by a bus stop and then he rammed his anchors on and started shouting out of the window. I just stood there bemused and quite shocked. He then drove off. Leaving me to cycle the last couple of km to work. Unbelievable!

There are some strange people on this planet  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 23 June, 2015, 03:46:43 pm
Quote from: Under the arches on 23 June, 2015, 12:25:57 pm

There are some strange people on this planet  :o

But what attracts so many of them to drive 4 x 4s
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 23 June, 2015, 03:49:31 pm
Commuted in on the race bike today, thanks to the Nelson Carradice Longflap acquired for the Kernow & SW Audax.  Took me a little while to get used to the handling with the weight of an old-fashioned laptop that high on the frame, but rather enjoyed the ability to hoon at higher speeds than usual round the backroads of Surrey and enjoy the fact that the sun was already up at 5am. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 23 June, 2015, 04:32:53 pm
Fixed the back wheel as best I could on the Merida last night so came in on it today. It feels so much quicker than using the tourer. Sun's staying out so tonight's ride home will be a long one :D

Just hoping the wheel holds up :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 23 June, 2015, 04:38:46 pm
I have a biz mtg tomorrow so spent the day in trains mainly.

Am missing all the good weather!

Hopefully be back at base for the Thur commute - and if not Thur then certainly Fri.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 24 June, 2015, 06:45:48 am
Quote from: Under the arches on 23 June, 2015, 12:25:57 pm
An eventful ride in this morning. After nearly being wiped out by oncoming traffic on a roundabout by Parkwall, on the A48. Then the best was to come, in the centre of Newport I was going round the roundabout by the railway station, and a 4x4 coming from the railway station decided to carry on without stopping, nearly hitting me. Luckily I swerved out the way and sent forth a load of abuse.

He then seemed to think it was then ok to try and ram me with his 2t 4x4 against me on a bike. So I decided to stop, by a bus stop and then he rammed his anchors on and started shouting out of the window. I just stood there bemused and quite shocked. He then drove off. Leaving me to cycle the last couple of km to work. Unbelievable!

There are some strange people on this planet  :o

Is it OK to ask which area of Newport you're heading for? I would try to stay off the roads in Newport, at least the main ones. There's shared use path most of the way to Cleppa Park / Tredegar House area. To get onto Risca Road I would cycle up the riverside and over the footbridge to the sorting office and up my hill. Even then you'll get some close passes when negotiating the parked cars - I took primary once but that didn't stop a taxi driver squeezing through one of the pinch points.

I take it it you ride up Parkwall Hill then? I tend to avoid that now, though I think it takes longer to turn right onto Hayesgate Lane and join NCN 4 which brings you out in Crick. Also the road surface is a shocker but my 25mm tyres have held up pretty well so far. I learned a good line to take and there's only one 20 metre section where there's no choice but to suffer a bone-shaking ride through broken up tarmac.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 24 June, 2015, 08:12:25 am
Observing a Plymouth commute from the window of a bus this morning. A fair few bike commuters to be seen. But bloody hell, those hills must give 'em thighs like Nelson 's column.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 24 June, 2015, 08:51:52 am
No commute for me this morning, as I need the car for work :(

However I did wake up early this morning and got out for a ride before work. There are a lot more cars on the road round here before 7am than I'm used to at 8am. Glad I don't have to commute in any earlier!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 24 June, 2015, 08:53:13 am
I work by the new Sainsbury's, so no real options, that doesnt mean a 3mile detour! So I just ride down the Chepstow Road that is usually fine. Apart from the roundaout by the Station.

Parkwall is fine, apart from when an Artic goes past. I have punctured down Hayes Gate lane twice too often, bit I do go through Mounton now rather than Pylmeric Hill, which is rather narrow and busy.

No incident  this morning though !
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 24 June, 2015, 08:57:05 am
I do enjoy a bit of SCR, especially when the two riders working as a pair that you've just caught and dropped have been the subject of this post (https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=2177.msg1878505#msg1878505)  8)  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 24 June, 2015, 09:54:27 am
Quote from: Under the arches on 24 June, 2015, 08:53:13 am
I work by the new Sainsbury's, so no real options, that doesnt mean a 3mile detour! So I just ride down the Chepstow Road that is usually fine. Apart from the roundaout by the Station.

Parkwall is fine, apart from when an Artic goes past. I have punctured down Hayes Gate lane twice too often, bit I do go through Mounton now rather than Pylmeric Hill, which is rather narrow and busy.

No incident  this morning though !

Ah I see, the Old Green roundabout. Blimey, not sure I would like it on there with traffic. I'd hop up onto the shared use path over the bridge and then go through the underpass, up and over the footbridge to the old Sainsburys site and bimble along the pavement until getting back on the road to go past MacD's. Though with plenty of foot traffic it's not ideal. It's the way I go if I want to cycle out to Caerleon. I am quite risk-averse though. I only do the Coldra roundabout in the mornings because it's vritually empty. I also don't really understand people forgoing the lovely smooth shared-use path on the Queensway bypass for a fast dual-carriageway, maybe that's just me.

The only time I have (so far) punctured on the rough roads of NCN 4 was just after the annual hedge-ripping. I must be terribly lucky as I don't have any especially-tough tyres on the road bike (25mm Luganos).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 25 June, 2015, 09:30:43 am
Lovely run home from work the long way, through the stunning countryside of monmouthshire together with a nice climb up and over into Chepstow, in the sun.

Well it was until my chain was sent right into the spokes after a dodgy gear change, as I was concentrating on three lots of cars coming as I was turning right.  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 25 June, 2015, 09:40:48 am
I got to the station last night to find the train was delayed by 23 minutes so rather than wait for half an hour I got back on the bike and rode home. 29 miles in the day at 15mph  :thumbsup:

I also got to see a Kestrel hovering over the field beside the road and red kites circling
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 25 June, 2015, 09:51:06 am
For some reason I woke an hour ahead of the alarm.  So I had a nice little 10 minute lie in and then headed for the shower. 
I planned a major loop to add to my already looped route and off I set. 
I did have a bit of a panic about the time after a while so cut it a bit shorter and started heading in vaguely the right direction.
Bugger! I arrived at work twenty minutes before normal and only with 2.5 miles more than normal on the clock.   :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 25 June, 2015, 03:22:24 pm
Quote from: fields5069 on 23 June, 2015, 10:40:56 am
Very windy yesterday on the way home. I don't know if it's just me, but a moderate 10-15mph wind on parts of a 30-miler can slow me down by 10 minutes at least. The Severn Bridge spooks me a bit, it's as if it REALLY wants to keep me prisoner there, for all eternity. The wind seems to increase in ferocity as I get close to dry land.

You are fit then, a similar wind on my 17 ish commute, adds about 10mins to me.
If I was doing double the distance I suspect I would lose a lot more time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 25 June, 2015, 03:38:07 pm
Quote from: velosam on 25 June, 2015, 03:22:24 pm
You are fit then, a similar wind on my 17 ish commute, adds about 10mins to me.
If I was doing double the distance I suspect I would lose a lot more time.

Well, it was more like 15 minutes I think. Plus the wind may not have been exactly head-on. :-) A full 20 minutes slower than a commute with a tail wind.

It's a bitch on the bridge, having to pedal down the off-ramp to stay above 10mph. :-(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 25 June, 2015, 07:51:51 pm
struggled to get home as my right knee was killing me and not sure why.

Even too a back road or two home, but its surprising how full of cars London is, even with the congestion charge.

Saw 3 Ferraris and for some reason a lot of cyclists where gold helmets.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 25 June, 2015, 08:02:22 pm
My morning commute was glorious. I'm early so there's nothing but fisherman and morning strollers around. And, this morning, Sun, Sun, Sun. It is the epitome of relaxing and what every bike ride should be.

Sadly, my return coincides with the evening rush hour and my quiet country lane is, briefly, the rat run from Hell. If I let it, I can become rather depressed by it. Not just the noise and the tenseness in my body it engenders - but the simple pointlessness of it. Why are these idiots trashing such a beautiful place so they can avoid a few minutes in a traffic jam. More broadly, why do they structure their lives that they have to do this to themselves as well as to the environment.

I really avoid negative thinking as it never does any good or leads anywhere nice. But. I'm starting to hate cars and their drivers. And I mean "hate" in a deep sense - the ball in your guts when you nearly get flattened; the stale adrenaline that sours your mind.

Sorry about bad vibes! I need to buy new headphones. The old ones broke and I think the insulation from both car noise and sense of presence really helped.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 26 June, 2015, 09:01:48 am
I had an engine revving cycle lane ranter attempting to intimidate me. Its all very different when they're stuck in traffic, the windows are open and there's an adrenaline fueled nutcase leaning through the window offering satisfaction. At least your passenger thought the whole thing hilarious.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 26 June, 2015, 09:37:56 am
Last night I got to the station with 10 minutes in hand till the train to find it delayed by sufficient to miss my fast connection (4 minutes and the non-stop train rather than 12 minutes and a stopping service). Wednesday had already proven that I can then beat the slow train by riding, so I set off again for the ride home.

29 miles at 16.6mph for the day :thumbsup:

ETA

This afternoon I didn't even bother going to the station but took the direct route home. 9 miles this morning @ 15.8mph by the time I was home that was 28 miles @18.1mph. The 100 miles a week for the last 13 weeks is showing benefits.  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 26 June, 2015, 06:27:41 pm
Quote from: Si S on 26 June, 2015, 09:01:48 am
I had an engine revving cycle lane ranter attempting to intimidate me. Its all very different when they're stuck in traffic, the windows are open and there's an adrenaline fueled nutcase leaning through the window offering satisfaction. At least your passenger thought the whole thing hilarious.

Nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 26 June, 2015, 06:58:28 pm
Quote from: Si S on 26 June, 2015, 09:01:48 am
I had an engine revving cycle lane ranter attempting to intimidate me. Its all very different when they're stuck in traffic, the windows are open and there's an adrenaline fueled nutcase leaning through the window offering satisfaction. At least your passenger thought the whole thing hilarious.

Good man.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 26 June, 2015, 07:11:59 pm
The B1228.

With added bus-every-5-minutes because they were running a free shuttle bus to the uni open day.  So there were also a million extra out of area drivers on the road.

It was a bit shit.  Lots of very fast (people generally drive at between 60 and 70 along there, sometimes more I think) and close passes.  A pullman bus overtook on the stupid blind bends - I hope his extra height meant he could see it was clear the other way, and not just a gamble.  I'm sure the red car that followed him did it on blind faith and fortunately they missed the oncoming vehicle.  Just.

I did notice that after each of the really close/tight passes (including the one where I has signalled the following car to stay back, which I almost never do, because I _could_ see around the corner, and swore loudly at the near miss when they ignored me) was followed by at least the next couple of cars passing _much_ wider.  And got lots of thank you nods and smiles and waves at the three safe lay-bys where I always pull over to let past any tailback that has built up. And tested the political wobble a lot, with quite a lot of success.

On the way home an overtake on the really crappy surfaced bit between the airfield and the maze was really alarming.  HGV passes me, quite wide thank goodness, on the blind bend.  Transit coming the other way slowed a bit, thank goodness, when he saw the HGV and as a result the gap between the front of the transit and the back of the HGV was fractionally above fag paper thickness, rather than fractionally below, since those two with a closing speed of well over a 100mph would have been nasty.

So I took the next right down Common Lane and went for the route via Dunnington and the cycle path which involves an utterly shite junction, turning right then left to get across the 1079.  I had a nice natter with the guy in the flatbed who pulled up behind me after a couple of minutes waiting to turn right as I hopped off and moved off the road to let him get out, turning left.  He had to wait about 5 minutes.  I figured I had no chance turning right so resorted to pedestrian tactics and judicious use of the verge and a traffic island and cooperation from a friendly driver corking the traffic and managed the less-than a-hundred yards in around 10 minutes.

Otherwise quite pleasant, if somewhat polleny.  Aaaaahhhhh CHOO!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cygnet on 26 June, 2015, 11:26:10 pm
At the ramp entrance to a nearby office car park:
(https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfa1/v/t1.0-9/11667377_10153504579080625_4332202159910320949_n.jpg?oh=4207c9940a271324f0d004c42ddbf53c&oe=55ED5EDD)
 :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Otto on 30 June, 2015, 10:33:15 am
What was it with Camberwell and Elephant & Castle this morning the traffic was so bad people were getting out of there cars and stretching their legs
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: GothonaBrompton on 30 June, 2015, 11:32:01 am
In addition to the existing works at E&C, there was a burst water main on Kennington Park Road yesterday, road is still shut.  Looked like a river.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 30 June, 2015, 02:32:19 pm
A nice incedent free sunny cycle ride into work. The only hard bit was trying to keep the flow of sweat down after I was sat at my desk  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 01 July, 2015, 07:14:41 am
Very sweaty run in today - 20 degrees at 5am. I saw a dead fox and a dead badger. Well, you can never tell with badgers as they're so hard they don't usually explode on impact. It wasn't moving though!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 01 July, 2015, 08:49:50 am
Last night I rode home as I would be quicker than getting the train and was.

This morning the first train was delayed such that I would miss the connection and so I rode all the way in and arrived at normal time.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 01 July, 2015, 09:39:19 am
75 deg F showing on the speedo at 7.45 on the run into Salford. Rode part of the way yesterday with someone commuting on a Sky brand Pinarello with disc brakes and deep rim carbon tubulars. Marginal gains for the commute?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 01 July, 2015, 09:59:48 am
It all counts in SCR.

Very warm ride in this morning, and quite a stiff SE breeze which was a surprise. I've brought the fast bike and only a showerproof gilet so if the thunderstorms turn up this afternoon I'll get wet.

Lots of little birds and rabbits around this morning, and I think the seagulls are not keen on the heat, as a set of them were hunkered down in the long grass.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 01 July, 2015, 11:19:54 am
Having battled with the OKR traffic yesterday, this morning I set off nice'n'early and went up to Greenwich, through the cool cool tunnel and them wiggled up through Stratford to Leytonstone.  Delivered a birthday card to my brother, had a puncture and then battled with the A11 traffic into town, but none of it detracted from the joy of 2 hours of riding in this sunshine.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Katie on 02 July, 2015, 03:48:27 pm
I rode through a puddle of fresh rain water and it was GLORIOUS.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 02 July, 2015, 10:14:00 pm
Exciting times on the commute this evening!

A car ahead of me had its exhaust hanging so low that it was bouncing off the speed bumps. I half-heartedly gave chase to let the driver know, as the style of driving suggested they hadn't a clue, but I gave up when it turned into Firth Moor.

Later, a cyclist came off down Polam Lane - his front wheel skidded on a can of Kestrel hidden in the leafmulch. I occasionally think it's a shame they tarmacced Polam Lane, but the nearly-unique milky blue Darlo cobbles can be murder in the wet. His Halfords road bike seemed to survive the impact fairly well, though he was a bit shaken. I straightened his bars (threaded headset, the top nut needs a fair bit of tightening) and bashed his brake lever back into place. Funnily enough, we work on the same site, but he was going to work and I was going home. He was alright, if a bit shaky, and as he had a mate nearby who'd give him a lift, he went off that way rather than towards work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 02 July, 2015, 11:10:18 pm
I took my fixie to work today, it is my preferred commuter, however my improved fitness and the gradients mean the gearing on the fixed is wrong, Sections where the tourer cruises as 20-25mph (steady gentle decent) are ~17-19mph and the climbs are still hard work, this resulted in 1h:15m home instead of the 1h:5m on the heavier tourer.  :-\

I can't decide if I need to gear up for the cruising speed and bite the bullet for the hills or just accept being slightly slower as my driven cadence runs out at lower speeds. Currently I run 48*19 on 32mm tyres and could go to either 17 or 18 by taking a link out of the chain.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jsabine on 03 July, 2015, 12:58:17 am
Work on your cadence?

I run a slightly lower gear than you (about 65": I make yours 68") and don't particularly find a problem with it. It's a bit spinny once I'm into the 40s (kph), but that's enough for most steady descents.

I found getting a computer with cadence sensor and trying hard (on a geared bike) to keep my cadence above 90, preferably up to 100rpm was helpful in teaching my legs to behave. IME if 90 or 100 is normal, then 120 isn't that hard - and that should be good for 25mph downhill ...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 03 July, 2015, 08:39:23 am
Its gorgeous riding in these mornings.
Was on the brompton today for added slowness and enjoyment of the weather.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 03 July, 2015, 09:52:10 am
It was so hot on Wednesday evening. I thought I'd have to stop at one point, it was like a furnace on the English side of the bridge. A breeze off the estuary helped by the time I had got into Caldicot, but I could feel my skin burning despite the sun lotion and decent starter tan.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 03 July, 2015, 10:02:54 am
Lovely ride in this morning. The sun was burning off the last of the morning cloud and I could feel the temperature rising rapidly from the cool 15oC I set off in.

Also the first time I've taken the singlespeed on my short route for a while. Rather happy I'm back to being able to crawl up the steep hill on that route that was defeating me a couple months back. Still get a little bit aprehensive riding over a certain bridge on that bike though and back right off for the turn, which isn't clever just before the hill on the other side.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 03 July, 2015, 10:04:22 am
Quote from: jsabine on 03 July, 2015, 12:58:17 am
Work on your cadence?

I run a slightly lower gear than you (about 65": I make yours 68") and don't particularly find a problem with it. It's a bit spinny once I'm into the 40s (kph), but that's enough for most steady descents.

I found getting a computer with cadence sensor and trying hard (on a geared bike) to keep my cadence above 90, preferably up to 100rpm was helpful in teaching my legs to behave. IME if 90 or 100 is normal, then 120 isn't that hard - and that should be good for 25mph downhill ...
My decending cadence is happy up to 150rpm (30mph) when the hill is steep enough that I am following the pedals rather than driving them. The issue is this is a gentle decent where on gears I will drive a gear at 90-95 rpm and 22-25 mph but on the fixed I can only drive and sustain 100 rpm and 20mph.

I am back on gears this morning but trying not to gear down as far on the accents.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ruthie on 03 July, 2015, 10:05:45 am
Quote from: mcshroom on 03 July, 2015, 10:02:54 am
Lovely ride in this morning. The sun was burning off the last of the morning cloud and I could feel the temperature rising rapidly from the cool 15oC I set off in.

Also the first time I've taken the singlespeed on my short route for a while. Rather happy I'm back to being able to crawl up the steep hill on that route that was defeating me a couple months back. Still get a little bit aprehensive riding over a certain bridge on that bike though and back right off for the turn, which isn't clever just before the hill on the other side.

But you're doing it!  Repetition will make it easier x
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moultonaught on 03 July, 2015, 10:20:59 am
Really socialable ride this morning in the sun. The first half of the jiyrney was chatting to one of my fellow bike-train commuters.

I commented on  the loveliness of a 650b velo orange to its owner at Hyde park corner and then we chatted as we rode until  I turned off embankment for blackfriar''s bridge.

Put me in the mood for tonight's FNRthS  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Reg.T on 03 July, 2015, 07:19:03 pm
First ever bike-only commute to my new job yesterday - a 135km round-trip  8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 03 July, 2015, 08:49:08 pm
!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 04 July, 2015, 09:10:25 pm
Completely unsurprised.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 06 July, 2015, 09:35:21 am
 I blew through a red light light on a pedestrian crossing this morning  :-[

Cruising down Urmston Lane drafting a Luton van at 40+ kph, pretty distracted thinking about STUFFS I saw the change late and realised I didn't have a scooby what was behind me, so ran it. Transpires I was being drafted in turn by a member of Greater Manchester's fire brigade, he was paying attention and stopped.

I have got to get my s*** together, I'm becoming a hazard at the moment.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 06 July, 2015, 09:55:25 am
Nice chat with an elderly party on a moped at the lights who asked what my spoke reflectors from Aldi were. I explained they're for sideways visibility and we had a chat then when he overtook he raised an arm in salute which I thought was going too far. Weirdo.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 06 July, 2015, 11:08:55 am
Quote from: Si S on 06 July, 2015, 09:35:21 am
I blew through a red light light on a pedestrian crossing this morning  :-[

Cruising down Urmston Lane drafting a Luton van at 40+ kph, pretty distracted thinking about STUFFS I saw the change late and realised I didn't have a scooby what was behind me, so ran it. Transpires I was being drafted in turn by a member of Greater Manchester's fire brigade, he was paying attention and stopped.

I have got to get my s*** together, I'm becoming a hazard at the moment.

I know the feeling. When I find myself getting into this territory I fix it by slowing right back down again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 06 July, 2015, 11:25:23 am
Quote from: sg37409 on 06 July, 2015, 11:08:55 am
Quote from: Si S on 06 July, 2015, 09:35:21 am
I blew through a red light light on a pedestrian crossing this morning  :-[

Cruising down Urmston Lane drafting a Luton van at 40+ kph, pretty distracted thinking about STUFFS I saw the change late and realised I didn't have a scooby what was behind me, so ran it. Transpires I was being drafted in turn by a member of Greater Manchester's fire brigade, he was paying attention and stopped.

I have got to get my s*** together, I'm becoming a hazard at the moment.

I know the feeling. When I find myself getting into this territory I fix it by slowing right back down again.

Thanks, that was my conclusion too, but as you probably know in a city rush hour that has its own problems, maybe I'll leave a little earlier, its easier to go slower when the traffic is lighter.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 06 July, 2015, 01:07:11 pm
>> its easier to go slower when the traffic is lighter.

Yep - and one reason why I end up getting sucked into going faster in traffic. Usually OK, but sometimes I look back on things and think that wasnt a very smart move.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 06 July, 2015, 06:43:18 pm
Not nice coming home. Very strong southerly wind, which is a cross-wind for most of the journey.
And there must have been some sort of incident on the bypass as there was far more traffic than usual on the old road and through the village.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 06 July, 2015, 07:13:00 pm
Was late this morning so went the direct route (4 miles instead of 8). Gosh that was fast! It was all over so quickly. Terribly disappointing.

Return was the proper route and with a headwind. But still wonderful.

Almost had an ambitious overtaking driver prang an oncoming car. It's always funny when you end up with two stationary vehicles head-to-head with a fag paper between them. More usually, they pull in on me! But I'm wise to this and wide ride and ready to brake - allowing me to watch with amusement as they learn all about blind corners.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 07 July, 2015, 09:33:45 am
Nice run in this morning, was expecting a bit of rain but I missed it. Its pissing down now though, but it is meant to be sunny on the way home. Toying with going home via the gwent flatlands?

I am still hesitant going around roundabouts and cars running in to me thanks to the bell end from a few weeks ago  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 07 July, 2015, 09:37:27 pm
Lovely long run home via Eaglescliffe and some offroad tracks. The track around Newsham Grange is a bit pointless as it's longer and farther and slower than the very pleasant road, but that's part of the fun!

The path alongside the river from Middleton One Row to Dinsdale was fabulous. Not just for saving me from having to ride through Middleton St George, but it's a great run next to the river, and above the river. After a downpour this affa, it was way more technical than my slick tyres could cope with - one to return to with suitable knobblies, or in dry weather.

I even had a very accommodating tractor-and-trailer to sit behind at 20-25 mph up Neasham Road ;D

Ah, summer commutes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 07 July, 2015, 09:47:17 pm
High tide + south westerly = a salt water soaking on the way home.

At least it wasn't as cold as last time (January iirc).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 07 July, 2015, 09:49:56 pm
Quote from: Deano on 07 July, 2015, 09:37:27 pm
Ah, summer commutes.

Well-a well-a well-a huh
Tell me more, tell me more
Did you get very far?

On my return commute I nearly ran over a reptile which was crossing the road. I don't know what it could have been other than a snake - yellowy-green, about six inches long, maybe 9 inches if stretched right out. Skinny and slithery. No legs. I was so surprised, I didn't stop, let alone think of taking a photo.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 07 July, 2015, 10:06:43 pm
Quote from: Nuncio on 07 July, 2015, 09:49:56 pm
Quote from: Deano on 07 July, 2015, 09:37:27 pm
Ah, summer commutes.

Well-a well-a well-a huh
Tell me more, tell me more
Did you get very far?

 :facepalm:

I also spotted two pro team jerseys (Astana and Movistar). Is the TdF on or something?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 08 July, 2015, 08:07:28 am
This probably doesn't fit into the "moron" class as it seems to be a regular occurrence, but there seems to be a selective adherence to traffic laws and/or the highway code on my commute. Almost every driver behaves very nicely, but then you get a few who refuse to go over solid white lines when overtaking. I'm pretty sure that combination is invalid, 'drive'! You are, however, welcome to try to combine NOT going over a solid white line with giving me enough space when passing. Good luck with that one! Some drivers fail to comprehend that there is a further option - wait.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 08 July, 2015, 09:00:56 am
I had a great ride, smashing tailwind and got to witness that magical moment when someone realises what a complete tool they are making of themselves.

I cruising up the bus lane here (https://goo.gl/maps/ZXhvo) the traffic moving a little slower than me, not much though, when a chap decides the bus lane is  much better option, flicks his indicator on and begins to mover into me. I knocked, quite gently actually, on his nearside passenger door and carried on to the lights. He pulls alongside on the left and proceeds to give me a rant:

Angry Middle Aged Man In Micra (AMAMIM): "OI", so I turn and turn my bars to face him, "That's criminal damage that is, I can have you done, I'M GOING TO CALL THE POLICE! YOU CAN'T DO THAT!"
Amused Zen Cyclist (AZC):"Its not criminal damage, there's no damage"
AMAMIM: "IT IS! IT'S CRIMINAL! YOU PUNCHED MY CAR"
AZC: "Right now listen, it's not criminal damage"
AMAMIM: " IT IS!"
AZC: "It's a road traffic collision and what happens now is you pull over and I give you my insurance details, you give me yours so you can get your "damage" sorted. Or you can call the police, but would you like to watch the video of you cutting me up by illegally entering a bus lane first?"

At that point he realised it was not a light he'd been staring at.  ;D  It was beautiful.  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 08 July, 2015, 11:57:51 am
Ugh. Drivers.

Monday, Tuesday and this morning's journey were spoiled by idiots who got their driving licences out of cereal boxes.

Monday's watchword was 'aggression' - specifically plenty of tailgating and close passes, including a National Express coach driver who, upon seeing me indicate right to overtake a bus pulling into a stop, accelerated hard to try and cut me off! I had no choice, as I was too close to the bus to bail out left and stop, so put the hammer down as the coach braked and stuck about a foot from my rear wheel until I passed the bus and bailed out. I was distracted by ragefear and ran a red light that I could have stopped for.

Tuesday's watchword was 'inattention' - specifically from the van driver at Bricklayer's Arms who came this >< close to knocking me off, by driving at me as we set off from the lights. Naturally, he didn't even want to be in the lane I was occupying as, after making me shit myself, he pulled back into lane 2 (the one he started off in) and carried on. Annoyingly, I didn't have a means of writing down the company name or reg (my phone was neatly stacked with my diary... on my desk), and had forgotten it by the time I got home.

A little later in the journey, I got pulled over by two Police officers (on foot - they shouted at me to stop, so I did) for amber-gambling. They were well up for issuing me a FPN, even though I explained that the white van currently stopped half-over the white line was tailgating me and I assessed it to be dangerous to stop in that scenario. PC2 got his brain stuck in a loop about me deliberately running the yellow. PC1 seemed to have a better knowledge of the Highway Code and sent me on my way. Well done lads, have a crack at the cyclist presenting no danger to anyone instead of the white van driver who can't bring his vehicle to rest in the right place and, judging by the amount of rust and dents all over it, will be committing a variety of motoring offences on top of that. ::-)

This morning's watchwordacronym is 'MGIF' - specifically the cabbie who mounted the kerb to pull alongside me at the one-way section. Also, the minicab who tried so hard to overtake me, that his ABS kicked in during his frantic effort to avoid crashing into the back of the bus in front of me. ::-)


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 08 July, 2015, 03:29:05 pm
Jackers? I believe this needs to be duplicated in the Rant thread too. Two birds 'n'all that dincha'kna!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 09 July, 2015, 08:52:18 am
Pulling off Oxford Road in to Hathersage Road I had a mysterious unclipping incident and ended up with my heel in the back wheel above the chain stay, low speed but it still kicked like a mule, now I have a small womble in my lovely new wheel.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 09 July, 2015, 09:23:18 am
Bummer.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: danhopgood on 09 July, 2015, 01:54:17 pm
Had an incident with a car driver parked on school zig zags.  I'd just dropped my son off on the tandem and was riding off solo.  I pointed at the markings as I slowly rode past the driver's door.  He wound down his window, but as it wasn't safe for me to stop there.  I manoeuvred the tandem almost to the passenger door when my left foot got picked up by the pedal, I lost my footing and went down into his door - denting it. 

There then followed a discussion about parking - during which his view was that it was none of my business where he parked.  He wasn't interested in my view that I was just trying to keep the school children safe. 

I couldn't deny I'd (accidentally) hit his door though.  I'm now waiting for the bill - and the claim form from my CTC third party insurance.  Thought I'd never need that - glad I've got it now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 09 July, 2015, 01:58:36 pm
Very ....  interesting... today in London. More silly cyling that I can count, two lemmings walking out in front of me, one pannier being doored (door opened as I went past), hell I enjoyed it all. My 40k did take almost 2.5 hours, though, I think I would have done better on the canal, will use it on the way back.

I did realise that my old commute route had one piece of significance which had escaped me at the time ... approaching the A40 at Acton

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vXePED3MVCY/VZ5tymSGunI/AAAAAAAAywo/LzC1m-Secqc/s640/IMG_20150709_083313.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: closetleftie on 09 July, 2015, 08:56:59 pm
Now: usually, commuting in't Yorkshire is a pleasure. OK, the cycle facilities are a bit meh, but motorists are on the whole considerate and experienced at behaving well around cyclists.

But today? Cover me in feathers, spank my arse and call me Brenda - it's like they've all been eating deh moron pillz. Cutting across cycle lanes, left hooks, buses pulling out on you, the works. Pride of place to the bendy bus driver who watches me come down the road. Then pulls out and when I stop to let him*, turns toward me so that the sodding back end of the bus gets Really Proper Close. Learn where the end of your vehicle is, you gigantic greasy dingleberry.





*I ain't playing the assertive game with ten tons of metal driven by twenty stone of ugly. He wants to go, I let him.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 09 July, 2015, 09:42:49 pm
Well, the canal back was not that much slower than the road


https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/828283402

https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/828283408

Things I have learned today: that just north of the A40 is a spiteful little hill Called Horsenden Hill that pops out of nowhere and scuttles off after, nothing that remarkable, just unexpected.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 09 July, 2015, 09:47:08 pm
Quote from: Ham on 09 July, 2015, 09:42:49 pm
Well, the canal back was not that much slower than the road


https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/828283402

https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/828283408

Things I have learned today: that just north of the A40 is a spiteful little hill Called Horsenden Hill that pops out of nowhere and scuttles off after, nothing that remarkable, just unexpected.
I know that hill.
I used to fly kites there when I lived in Harrow.
It is a b@st@rd.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 10 July, 2015, 09:21:59 am
Quote from: Ham on 09 July, 2015, 09:42:49 pm
Well, the canal back was not that much slower than the road


https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/828283402

https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/828283408

Things I have learned today: that just north of the A40 is a spiteful little hill Called Horsenden Hill that pops out of nowhere and scuttles off after, nothing that remarkable, just unexpected.


That's a heck of a route, is that!!! Chapeau.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 10 July, 2015, 10:17:21 am
I used to do that as a regular commute, for about 18 months a bit longer than that, for another 18 a bit shorter.

It has in its favour you can eat and drink anything without getting heavier.

If only I stopped eating when I stopped riding it....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moultonaught on 10 July, 2015, 10:21:01 am
an interesting and educational commute today. had a chat with the owner of a really lovely fettled mk3 Moulton at Marylebome, complete with wishbone stem (for the Moulton pervs on here).

Then got the dahon security marked by the Mey and had the chance to sit in an hgv at Marble arch. I thought I was aware of the blind spots but even with the non compulsory mirrors I was astounded by the extent of the front blind spot.

the Sgt running the scheme told me that a volvo estate recently got squashed as it had nipped up a bus land inside an hgv and then nipped in front of the lorry and wasn't visible! a volvo estate!!!



 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 10 July, 2015, 11:53:13 am
The, quite frankly, such vehicles shouldn't be on the road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 10 July, 2015, 12:06:19 pm
Well, yesterday's Tube strike allowed me to have a joyous and smug trundle through a 6 mile long car park in the morning, but what in the name of frikkin' lasers happened in the evening?!

Traffic was light, and every driver was out for blood. Bloody hell it was a scary ride. I noted 3 good drivers in the 35 mins I was on the road. A bus driver who correctly assessed the time + distance to the next stop and waited a safe distance behind me (he must have been new to the job). A woman driving a beautiful DB9 convertible, with the top down and some sort of classical music wafting from the stereo. So relaxed was she, that she was just in bra and shorts serenely taking her time not hassling anyone and passing me and other cyclists with plenty of room. Finally a berk inna merc, who wasn't a berk at all, predicted my desire to change lanes around a bus and waved me out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 10 July, 2015, 12:07:52 pm
Quote from: ian on 10 July, 2015, 11:53:13 am
The, quite frankly, such vehicles shouldn't be on the road.

If you mean Volvo estates then I totally agree :demon:

A sticker commonly seen on PTWs about twenty years ago read "My other bike is under a Volvo"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 10 July, 2015, 01:50:44 pm
Quote from: Jacomus on 10 July, 2015, 12:06:19 pm
Well, yesterday's Tube strike allowed me to have a joyous and smug trundle through a 6 mile long car park in the morning, but what in the name of frikkin' lasers happened in the evening?!

Traffic was light, and every driver was out for blood. Bloody hell it was a scary ride. I noted 3 good drivers in the 35 mins I was on the road. A bus driver who correctly assessed the time + distance to the next stop and waited a safe distance behind me (he must have been new to the job). A woman driving a beautiful DB9 convertible, with the top down and some sort of classical music wafting from the stereo. So relaxed was she, that she was just in bra and shorts serenely taking her time not hassling anyone and passing me and other cyclists with plenty of room. Finally a berk inna merc, who wasn't a berk at all, predicted my desire to change lanes around a bus and waved me out.

Jamaica Road was horrendous last night for sure. Once past that though, the roads were nice and clear. I did have a angry bus driver that didn't like me being in front at all! Still had the last laugh as always.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: canny colin on 10 July, 2015, 05:16:51 pm
 Tynedale pest control . Their  4x4 was caring  a large Sthil chainsaw . Must be for well ard mice or bears.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 13 July, 2015, 10:28:08 am
A couple of close calls today when being passed but on the whole not a bad journey in.

Was amazed how revealing castelli shorts are, as I was following someone and thankfully he peeled off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 13 July, 2015, 10:32:05 am
Erm, just what did he peel off? Actually, better not tell us.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 13 July, 2015, 11:57:54 am
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 13 July, 2015, 10:32:05 am
Erm, just what did he peel off? Actually, better not tell us.

lol too much
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 13 July, 2015, 12:32:48 pm
This morning I deployed shorts... so Londoners, my apologies, the mizzle today is my fault ::-)

The roads felt veeeeeery greasy underneath Lady Bertie and I found I couldn't relax at all on the journey. I'm not the worlds most comfortable wet weather rider, but today was exceptionally uncomfortable.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 13 July, 2015, 01:11:41 pm
Almost taken out (not in the fun way) by an estate agent. I was overtaking a long line of very slow moving cars. I was over the white line by a foot or so.

When I was about 3 feet from the car in front of me, the driver turned right without doing the 'mirror, signal' bit of 'mirror, signal manoeuvre'. I braked and dived left into the newly vacated des res of 5'X6' tarmac oh-so-recently occupied by one of Derby's No 1 Award Winning Team (http://www.imslettings.com/index_2015.asp).

Luckily, I've always been wary of estate agents, so I wasn't too surprised.

Was close, though.

I've emailed them asking them to try not to kill potential cusomers.





Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 13 July, 2015, 03:25:34 pm
Slightly moist in South Wales / Aust. I rode my single speed in, newly shod with 28mm tyres and with nice shiny QR skewers replacing the odd screw-in bolts which had rusted and were seizing quite a bit. It looks like it's time for another freewheel, it skipped slightly as I was standing up to get away from some lights. I was saving for a leisure bike, a sit-up-and-beg type for use with jeans, but now I wonder whether I shouldn't try to pick up a second-hand SS with a fixed option for emergencies.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 13 July, 2015, 05:45:34 pm
Where did that rain come from?

One of the great things about a poncho is the easy don-able-ness when rain strikes mid-voyage. Much easier, not to mentioned more dignified, than hopping around by the roadside trying to get waterproof trousers over your boots without falling in the ditch.

I want to get some sort of handlebar mounted hold-all to keep the poncho in so I won't even need to faff with dragging it out of a pannier. For utility, you can't beat a basket - but I don't think it would look quite right on my tourer/commuter. I have a spare Carradice "zip roll" which proved to be incompatible with butterfly bars.

In other news: today was my first ride with a mirror. When not smothered by a poncho (!) it's fantastic. And no mounting or vibration problems at all.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 13 July, 2015, 05:52:27 pm
Quote from: Pancho on 13 July, 2015, 05:45:34 pm
Where did that rain come from?

One of the great things about a poncho is the easy don-able-ness when rain strikes mid-voyage. Much easier, not to mentioned more dignified, than hopping around by the roadside trying to get waterproof trousers over your boots without falling in the ditch.

I want to get some sort of handlebar mounted hold-all to keep the poncho in so I won't even need to faff with dragging it out of a pannier. For utility, you can't beat a basket - but I don't think it would look quite right on my tourer/commuter. I have a spare Carradice "zip roll" which proved to be incompatible with butterfly bars.

In other news: today was my first ride with a mirror. When not smothered by a poncho (!) it's fantastic. And no mounting or vibration problems at all.
Come on Pancho !!  There's a slight dearth of ambition on display there.

I think you should be able to rig something up (bungees, triggers, that sort of thing) so that with a single press of a button the poncho would fully deploy. That would be a joy to behold.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 14 July, 2015, 09:15:09 am
I'm sure I've seen a thread specific to this but I can't find it. It happened again on the way in this morning so this thread'll do.

Black BMW SUV-thing AJ14 G??. On The Greenway. 0715-ish. Waited behind until the road was clear, pulled out wide around me, and drove off without breaking the speed limit! This isn't the first time this has happened, either.  Is this person a cyclist who knows what it's like on the receiving end, or one of a dwindling number of motorists who actually know what they're doing?

Either way, WELL DONE :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 14 July, 2015, 10:31:05 am
you were looking for this thread (the not a rant) (https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=16906.0)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Poacher on 14 July, 2015, 10:45:47 am
Quote from: Paul on 13 July, 2015, 01:11:41 pm
Almost taken out (not in the fun way) by an estate agent. I was overtaking a long line of very slow moving cars. I was over the white line by a foot or so.

When I was about 3 feet from the car in front of me, the driver turned right without doing the 'mirror, signal' bit of 'mirror, signal manoeuvre'. I braked and dived left into the newly vacated des res of 5'X6' tarmac oh-so-recently occupied by one of Derby's No 1 Award Winning Team (http://www.imslettings.com/index_2015.asp).

Luckily, I've always been wary of estate agents, so I wasn't too surprised.

Was close, though.

I've emailed them asking them to try not to kill potential cusomers.

Obviously a graduate of the Nike School of Motoring - no mirror, no signal, "Just do it!"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 14 July, 2015, 10:52:37 am
A nice ride this morning until I got to Newport. The bike has been refettled for touring duties next month. So off came the nice light 23tyres and on went the 32 schwalbe marathon plus's that weigh a tonne, but good for carrying loads. Christ the difference is quite frightening, it felt like I was riding in tar. But I will get used to it.

Anyway back to the ride. The roundabout by Newport Railway Station by the castle is a nightmare if you are turning right. I found my self by the central reservation and cars and taxis were speeding round which prevented me pulling me into the inside  :facepalm: Tomorrow I will be going through the down and up the under and over pass  :'(, which is a lot slower but safer. The way home isnt a problem, as I just turn left.

Hopefully the smack and crack heads will be on their way for their breakfast morning hit!  ???

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 14 July, 2015, 01:59:08 pm
Quote from: Under the arches on 14 July, 2015, 10:52:37 am
Hopefully the smack and crack heads will be on their way for their breakfast morning hit!  ???

I go through there around 5am, more specifically just through the one which takes me from the footbridge to the Bridge and on to Chepstow Road. I've never had a problem yet, normally just some harmless students asking for a light or trying to stay upright after another late night/early morning. I've never even had a problem with glass, unlike the tunnel between Caerwent and Caldicot which is always a gamble.

The ride home yesterday was slow. I don't think we got the Westerly as the BBC forecast, but the A4810 was pretty slow going. The bridge was better than it could have been, it was more of a cross wind there.

Road bike tomorrow, let's see how long these 25mm Luganos last on the rough bits... It's a bit face-down / arse-up for me, but comfortable enough if a little stiff.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 15 July, 2015, 08:36:32 am
I went round the roundabout this morning, as I couldnt be bothered with the hastle. And it was fine.

Not a bad run considering the light rain.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 15 July, 2015, 08:41:03 am
I think it must be The Great Manchester Drive Like A Twunt Day, I got a grade A nutcase, I'm fairly inured to all this rubbish but I was genuinely taken aback by the level of aggression from this guy in a dead end housing estate, never seen him before but have seen the van outside what is presumably his house, obviously never heard the expression 'Don't sh*t on your own doorstep'. I may post a note through on the way home suggesting he checks his smoke alarms he refrains from such behaviour so close to home. Several colleagues are also reporting encounters with angry lunatics ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 15 July, 2015, 08:51:14 am
A couple of early issues started my commute in a bad way but it was fine from then on.

1. I use a section of road here (https://goo.gl/maps/P9TVG) where there is a 'hard shoulder' to the left of the carriage way. This is not designed, constructed, designated or maintained as a cycleway but is habitually used as such by most cyclists. It is worse in the evening when travelling east as the first section is full of debris from the trees. This morning I passed another cyclist and stayed wide in the lane, unfortunately there was a stream of oncoming traffic and the vehicles behind me squeezed passed while gesturing for me to use the 'cycle lane'.

2. Further up the road I turn right on a left hand bend. Due to oncoming traffic I was stopped waiting a gap when a vehicle behind me suddenly went past on my right whilst turning right. They had run out of [spelling correction] patience [/spelling correction] or timed a gap that I wasn't able to take from a standing start.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 15 July, 2015, 09:31:57 am
Quote from: matthew on 15 July, 2015, 08:51:14 am
. They had run out of patients

It was an empty ambulance?  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 15 July, 2015, 10:21:17 am
Quote from: Basil on 15 July, 2015, 09:31:57 am
Quote from: matthew on 15 July, 2015, 08:51:14 am
. They had run out of patients

It was an empty ambulance?  ;D

 :facepalm: spelling corrected

No just your standard small van.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 16 July, 2015, 01:18:57 pm
Last night was filled with close shaves, what the fuck was wrong with everyone. Plus, I'm getting thoroughly pissed off with drivers who are unable to steer their vehicles within the lane markings at Bricklayers Arms. Recently, there have been roadworks carried out to simplify the lanes - it was a bit of a guessing game before, but now it's super clear.

This morning seemed to be 'half wheel a cyclist day' vigorously partaken in by 5 drivers over the course of my route. >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 16 July, 2015, 03:02:23 pm
Nice run home yesterday over the flatlands of gwent. This us my preferred way home now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 16 July, 2015, 08:43:17 pm
Was looking like a decent ride home, until I came closer than close to getting wiped out by a van driver.

If you see a white white Merc Sprinter low roof, standard wheelbase, with a clean patch on the nearside at shoulder height - I've got the matching dirty patch on the shoulder of my jersey.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 16 July, 2015, 09:06:18 pm
Absolutely flying  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 17 July, 2015, 08:39:25 am
Quiet ride in and was amazed at the amount of cyclists on the road at 630am, saw about 10 this morning usually its 1 or 2.

Managed to have enough time to do a lap of Regents Park, so another thing ticked off on my rather unadventurous list.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 17 July, 2015, 11:34:19 am
Can't wait for my back to recover enough for me to a) return to work and b)- a) by bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 17 July, 2015, 01:12:26 pm
Quote from: Jacomus on 16 July, 2015, 08:43:17 pm
Was looking like a decent ride home, until I came closer than close to getting wiped out by a van driver.

If you see a white white Merc Sprinter low roof, standard wheelbase, with a clean patch on the nearside at shoulder height - I've got the matching dirty patch on the shoulder of my jersey.

Too close.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 17 July, 2015, 02:52:16 pm
By about 6'.

Grrr.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 18 July, 2015, 11:17:26 am
Quote from: Paul on 17 July, 2015, 01:12:26 pm
Quote from: Jacomus on 16 July, 2015, 08:43:17 pm
Was looking like a decent ride home, until I came closer than close to getting wiped out by a van driver.

If you see a white white Merc Sprinter low roof, standard wheelbase, with a clean patch on the nearside at shoulder height - I've got the matching dirty patch on the shoulder of my jersey.

Too close.

Yup.

Fortunately the contact was low speed. He was sitting in a right turn only lane, I was in the left lane going straight ahead doing about 15mph. No mirror, no signal, he just pulled out of the queue. If in hadn't have been awake, it would have been really nasty. As it was, I hit the brakes as soon as I saw his wheel turn and was nearly stopped when I hit the side of his van.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 18 July, 2015, 12:51:40 pm
Quote from: Jacomus on 18 July, 2015, 11:17:26 am
Quote from: Paul on 17 July, 2015, 01:12:26 pm
Quote from: Jacomus on 16 July, 2015, 08:43:17 pm
Was looking like a decent ride home, until I came closer than close to getting wiped out by a van driver.

If you see a white white Merc Sprinter low roof, standard wheelbase, with a clean patch on the nearside at shoulder height - I've got the matching dirty patch on the shoulder of my jersey.

Too close.

Yup.

Fortunately the contact was low speed. He was sitting in a right turn only lane, I was in the left lane going straight ahead doing about 15mph. No mirror, no signal, he just pulled out of the queue. If in hadn't have been awake, it would have been really nasty. As it was, I hit the brakes as soon as I saw his wheel turn and was nearly stopped when I hit the side of his van.

Sounds like one of my rare offs: van in queue behind right-turning car decides to move into the bike lane on his left. No good reason: it didn't give him enough room to go round the inside of the right-turning car (unless he was planning to mount the pavement too which, come to think of it, he might have been). I was level with him, to his left in the bike lane. Braked hard and headed for the kerb. No contact with him but plenty with the kerb and then ground.

Do send him the cleaning bill.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 20 July, 2015, 10:15:30 pm
I'm not sure how to classify tonight's commute. The wind wasn't fun, but traffic was easy. Something bad had happened at London Bridge north side - ambulance and a few police motorbikes and cars were stopped and two cyclists were giving statements to officers. I didn't see any stopped vehicles, or mangled bikes so fingers crossed it wasn't as serious as it looked.  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 22 July, 2015, 07:19:23 pm
Both on yesterday's commute.
Morning.  There's a road where the brambles hang over the adjacent wall and scratch at cyclist's arms and face which I've pruned back for a couple of years now.  Usually in August.
I was very pleased to come across a chap I chat to occasionally doing the job for me.  :D

Evening.  As I did my loop on the Raddlebarn Road, I spotted a bike upside down on the pavement.  Puncture, I assumed.  So I stopped to ask if he had everything he needed.  As you do.  But it wasn't a puncture, he'd monged his chain which had folded back on itself in a sort of double inside out loop.
Now, I've had that happen twice in my life.  The first time was a million years ago - I couldn't figure it out and walked it home and had to break the chain and put it back together again.
The other time was only a few weeks ago.  And I managed to sort it out!  Only problem is, I couldn't for the life of me remember what I did.  In the end I had to leave him to walk home.

What is the knack when this happens?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 22 July, 2015, 09:05:46 pm
Basil, I had that happen years ago. Chain contorted itself into a shape that was not possible without a breach in the space time continuum. A mobius strip or something. I had to dismantle the bike to fix it. Blamed it on the drugs at the time. It was either that or I'd have to accept that physics did not operate as we are taught and expect.

Nothing to report on my commute. Except that it was windy and high tide - so I got wet again :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 23 July, 2015, 11:02:19 am
A nice uneventful ride in. Not even any head wind :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 23 July, 2015, 11:10:43 am
Had a nice ride in, it was a little chilly today but the perfect temperature:ride-time ratio for my L/S top and not much in the way of wind either.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 23 July, 2015, 11:13:19 am
This morning, guess what? The schools are closed for summer = almost empty roads.

"Tell me something new", you might ask. Well, on my way in, I delivered a 'congratulations' card to a neighbour, slightly off-route than normal (by 100 yards) so she can pass it on to her daughter, on our behalf. And it's taken me about as long to write this, as it takes for me to cycle in to work!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 23 July, 2015, 11:44:14 am
Been back at work since Monday.

Have had two minor relapses of the spanged back since- one on Monday as I picked up my very light bag to go home (probably reached a fraction too far to get it) and the second yesterday as I looked under a sink and reached for a water pipe at the back to locate a leak (bit of a theme developing?)

As a result I am wary of getting on the bike. Honking up hills may exacerbate the back and getting home after a relapse might prove problematical so, by tomorrow I will have been commuting by car for a week and off the bike for two >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 23 July, 2015, 12:58:42 pm
Oooo. Sounds like you could do with some counselling.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 23 July, 2015, 02:09:43 pm
Quote from: Basil on 22 July, 2015, 07:19:23 pm
Evening.  As I did my loop on the Raddlebarn Road, I spotted a bike upside down on the pavement.  Puncture, I assumed.  So I stopped to ask if he had everything he needed.  As you do.  But it wasn't a puncture, he'd monged his chain which had folded back on itself in a sort of double inside out loop.
Now, I've had that happen twice in my life.  The first time was a million years ago - I couldn't figure it out and walked it home and had to break the chain and put it back together again.
The other time was only a few weeks ago.  And I managed to sort it out!  Only problem is, I couldn't for the life of me remember what I did.  In the end I had to leave him to walk home.

What is the knack when this happens?

If it's anything like the mess a chain of longer than average length gets into when given a Sheldon Shake, then the trick is to propagate the forward kinks along the chain until they meet the backward kinks (or vice-versa), at which point they'll annihilate.  Pulling on the chain makes them tighter and less cooperative.  If the chain has ends, there's a bonus failure mode where it can end up forming an actual knot, which is obviously brilliant fun to un-tangle through the neck of an old white spirit bottle or similar.

Still less messy than those spinny chain cleaners, thobut.


Pancho:  I accidentally made an actual Möbius chain on my recumbent once (easily done if you get distracted while you feed the chain through the tubes).  It was very noisy and inefficient.  I reckon you could make it work properly with a horizontal idler pulley, if there was any point in doing so.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 23 July, 2015, 09:16:21 pm
It's also,possible to wire up a recumbent chain arse-about such that forward motion requires backwards pedalling.  My grate frend the late Hairy McSteve managed this on the dock side in Esbjerg butbthere is a chap who does BHPC races on a Burrows Ratracer set up thus deliberately as he says it makes his leg motion closer to riding his upright.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 23 July, 2015, 11:34:52 pm
The little Duck commuted both ways on his Islabike Rothan today. He's ridden it home a couple of previous times but he's never done both before. Unfortunately this mean I didn't ride as I was acting as footman. I predict a lot of me not riding for the next year or so. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 24 July, 2015, 08:13:20 am
Nice but wet run in this morning. The ride home was nice and chatted with another cyclist on the way home for the last 5miles and I even could take him wheel for the last few miles
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 24 July, 2015, 10:37:43 am
Well the only really notable thing about today's ride in was that I was back on the bike after a couple days of feeling ill. Nice to be back :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wascally Weasel on 24 July, 2015, 12:59:17 pm
I raced the rain in and missed the worst of it.  It looks like I'll get very wet on the ride home though, no matter how late I leave.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 24 July, 2015, 01:18:22 pm
Nice ride in. Got brayed at by a donkey (loud!). Saw a large bird of prey swoop and make off with some verge-dwelling rodent. Stayed dry.

Horrid ride home. None of the above happened except I got rained on. A lot. Surprised that my trousers were still passable on arrival home - though a bit damp around the cuffs. Somehow the poncho manages to keep more of me dry than it appears it ought.

As it rained, I felt a bit sorry for my daughter and pals. They're camping at a festival for the next few days.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 24 July, 2015, 10:10:12 pm
Trundled to the station this morning, somehow reading the time wrong when I got there. This error resulted in me catching the train before the one I wanted, which I discovered as we wooshed through the first stop that I expected - bummer, looks like I'm doing the short route from London Bridge!

I had probably the most pointless MGIF I've experienced in a long, long time. A bus was following me, at a comfortable distance, northbound on Moorgate, approaching London Wall. In the last 30 metres before the lights, they changed to red. Mr Bus screwDriver goes for the overtake ::-) I should have pulled into secondary and trundled up to the lights and used the feeder lane to get past the bus again, but hey-ho. I held primary and made the screwDriver choose between running a bollard over, running me over or backing off. I got an indignant beep and gesticulation for my troubles and returned my own indignant gesticulation at the red lights. The screwDriver threw his hands up in an 'I give up' fashion. Bellend. ::-)

The route home, I was hoping that the really heavy rain would keep going, but no, it was drizzling. Naturally, almost every bloody driver out there was driving like their car is water soluble ::-) Also had a minicab registered in Canterbury whose lane discipline was of a standard a drunk would be ashamed of. He also seemed to think that he could use bus lanes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jsabine on 24 July, 2015, 10:27:50 pm
Quote from: Jacomus on 24 July, 2015, 10:10:12 pm
Also had a minicab registered in Canterbury who [...] seemed to think that he could use bus lanes.

If he was signwritten as a cab, he might well have a hackney1 licence and therefore be a taxi rather than a minicab (sorry, PHV), in which case it's a nice point - are London bus lanes available to all taxis, or just London ones?



(ETA - a cursory google turns up the rules for bus lanes in Camden (http://www.camden.gov.uk/ccm/cms-service/download/asset?asset_id=2996655), which says that "taxi" is as defined in the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2002 (http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2002/3113/regulation/4/made). These say that:
Quote
“taxi” means—
(a)in England and Wales, a vehicle licensed under—
(i)section 37 of the Town Police Clauses Act 1847(11); or
(ii)section 6 of the Metropolitan Public Carriage Act 1869(12);
or under any similar enactment; and
(b)in Scotland, a taxi licensed under section 10 of the Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982(13);
I CBA to google any of that, but my lay reading is that any taxi can use bus lanes in Camden, and my assumption is that Camden's rules are the same as elsewhere in London. So, your Canterbury cabbie may be a cockwomble because of his driving, but not merely for his use of bus lanes.)




1: No, not Hackney
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 24 July, 2015, 10:46:20 pm
Quote from: jsabine on 24 July, 2015, 10:27:50 pm
Quote from: Jacomus on 24 July, 2015, 10:10:12 pm
Also had a minicab registered in Canterbury who [...] seemed to think that he could use bus lanes.

If he was signwritten as a cab, he might well have a hackney1 licence and therefore be a taxi rather than a minicab (sorry, PHV), in which case it's a nice point - are London bus lanes available to all taxis, or just London ones?

(ETA - a cursory google turns up the rules for bus lanes in Camden (http://www.camden.gov.uk/ccm/cms-service/download/asset?asset_id=2996655), which says that "taxi" is as defined in the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2002 (http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2002/3113/regulation/4/made). These say that:
Quote
“taxi” means—
(a)in England and Wales, a vehicle licensed under—
(i)section 37 of the Town Police Clauses Act 1847(11); or
(ii)section 6 of the Metropolitan Public Carriage Act 1869(12);
or under any similar enactment; and
(b)in Scotland, a taxi licensed under section 10 of the Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982(13);
I CBA to google any of that, but my lay reading is that any taxi can use bus lanes in Camden, and my assumption is that Camden's rules are the same as elsewhere in London.)




1: No, not Hackney

It's only Licenced London Taxis, based on TfL info.

That's interesting though, would that taxi be able to ply for business if its not a PHV?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jsabine on 24 July, 2015, 10:52:37 pm
The TfL pages I found just said "taxi", without qualifying it further - my reading was that they meant to distinguish it from PHV, and probably intended to allow you to infer black cab.

AFAIK, a taxi can only ply for hire in its license area. A PHV can't ply for hire anywhere, but can pick up (or, obviously, drop off) anywhere, even out of area, as long as it's been booked (may have to be a journey going back to its area) - I imagine a taxi can do the same.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 24 July, 2015, 11:13:26 pm
This is the one I found, where it specifies London Licences Taxi. Perhaps non-red route lanes are different!!!

https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/driving/red-routes/rules-of-red-routes/bus-lanes
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 25 July, 2015, 04:58:19 pm
Hmm, massive headwind this morning, to the point where I couldn't get into second gear on a stretch where I normally dance around the edge of spinning out of second or grinding third.

I'm about to get back on the bike. Looking at the sky, I'm very much regretting cleaning Lady Bertie.  :facepalm: Oh well, I suppose it fits my theme of wearing black heavy-weight jeans on the hottest day of the year and shorts on the wettest day of the year ::-) ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 25 July, 2015, 08:21:15 pm
Quote from: Jacomus on 25 July, 2015, 04:58:19 pm
Hmm, massive headwind this morning, to the point where I couldn't get into second gear on a stretch where I normally dance around the edge of spinning out of second or grinding third.

I'm about to get back on the bike. Looking at the sky, I'm very much regretting cleaning Lady Bertie.  :facepalm: Oh well, I suppose it fits my theme of wearing black heavy-weight jeans on the hottest day of the year and shorts on the wettest day of the year ::-) ;D

Hmm, that went better than expected - Lady Bertie and I remained dry the whole way. Saw a poor chap who'd been hit and run by a vehicle at Bricklayers, he looked a little banged up but mostly OK and chatting to police as I cruised by, I asked if he wanted any help with his bike, but he declined.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 27 July, 2015, 12:06:32 pm
Was more difficult than it ought to have been this morning, even with the wind. I suspect tyres.

Front tyre? OK
Rear tyre? Possibly under-inflated, don't think enough to make a difference
Spare tyre? Over inflated. That'll be it  :'(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 28 July, 2015, 10:57:21 am
First en velo commute in over a fortnight this morning. Back twinged a bit as expected but, 'kinell- shape doesn't take long to go AWOL does it :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 28 July, 2015, 11:05:44 am
I had to take a brief stop on the commute this morning, the traffic was completely log jammed through a council designed traffic calming system that consists of parking vehicles on alternate sides of the road.

The problem was that the empty recycling box had blown into the road in one of the sections where the traffic can pass each other and vehicles in one direction were queued back from the parked cars and in the other from the box back passed the parked cars. When I got there the driver was just undoing her seat belt to get out and move the box. I rather beat her to it as I parked on the pavement along side
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 28 July, 2015, 01:03:49 pm
One of those annoying passes this am. The car behind me overtook with just enough room to pull up in front of me and behind the parked car on our side of the road, while waiting for the oncoming traffic to pass. The annoying bit is that if the car hadn't overtaken me, I could have carried on, there being plenty of room for me to pass the parked car.

It's one of those thoughtless manoeuvres that gets me disproportionately tetchy, but small potatoes in the grand scheme.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 29 July, 2015, 08:33:35 am
That happens all the time, often when I can get in front, but then I think to myself, where would I prefer to have that prat? If front, or behind me again? No contest.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 29 July, 2015, 09:51:38 am
Wore my winter jacket this morning. It's July FFS  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 29 July, 2015, 12:51:30 pm
I wore mine y'day and didnt overheat. Braved a tee-shirt and gilet today though which was bertter
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 29 July, 2015, 01:14:28 pm
Yesterday was day of the stupid. Numerous close passes and aggressive drivers, the usual revving when they're behind, and then hyper-acceleration within a millimetre of my back wheel the moment the see a sliver of space. I'm where I am because it's not safe to pass, would it really hurt to slow down for the few seconds it takes to find a safe passing point? Apparently. Even when I bothered to give way to drivers, it seemed that it was all too much to acknowledge the gesture with a nod or a thank you. Yes, fuckwits, that me stopped to let your fat car out.

Got a bit fed up with the roads so tootled along the Thames (headwind!) and down the Wandle on the way home. Which was enlivened by the stupid on bikes - I suppose stupidity is a universal constant. Firstly in Wandsworth, waiting at the lights, next to a girl on a bike, small gap between us. Lights change and straight through that gap goes Speedy Lycra Boy, scaring the hell out of her, and whacking my handlebars (fortunately due to my haphazard measuring skills, I once-upon-a-time overtrimmed my handlebars, so there's a good inch of bendy grip hanging out). Was there a 'sorry'? Nope. I couldn't be arsed chasing and killing him.

Then later, further down the Wandle, there's a bike path with poor sightlines at the best of times, but they're knocking down the flats by it, so there's now hoardings on the path, reducing visibility around corners to nil. Fortunately I was going slow and heard the approach, but two cyclists came flying around a corner ahead of me, entirely oblivious that there could have been anything on the other side. I got a doppler-shifted sorry as they continued at full speed. I hope they get eaten by crabs.

I thought I'd take the back route along the A22, but at that time of day it seems to a horrid rat run for drivers too impatient to use the A22. I won't make that mistake again. I think I have to agree with other comments about Croydon drivers.

Frankly, it was relief to finally grind up my driveway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 29 July, 2015, 01:48:15 pm
Quote from: Butterfly on 23 July, 2015, 11:34:52 pm
The little Duck commuted both ways on his Islabike Rothan today. He's ridden it home a couple of previous times but he's never done both before. Unfortunately this mean I didn't ride as I was acting as footman. I predict a lot of me not riding for the next year or so. :)
Hooray!  :thumbsup: For little Duck if not for you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 30 July, 2015, 12:29:52 pm
Another one yesterday. Stopped at the lights on Tooley St outside the Hilton next a couple of other cyclists. There's an old man crossing and just about in front of us and the lights go amber. Even the taxi behind waits. Not so the cyclist that comes flying through on the outside, not slowing down a jot, swinging in by me and in front of the old man, scaring the bejesus out of him. Probably a few centimeters clearance. A cyclist probably in his late twenties, all the gear, not an escaped estate monkey on a stolen bike expanding his repertoire of anti-social activities.

I had to opportunity at the lights on Tower Bridge Road to ask him if he felt proud to have done that. 'The lights had changed' was the response like that made it alright. I don't know what is a matter with people.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 30 July, 2015, 01:18:40 pm
Quote from: ian on 30 July, 2015, 12:29:52 pm
Another one yesterday. Stopped at the lights on Tooley St outside the Hilton next a couple of other cyclists. There's an old man crossing and just about in front of us and the lights go amber. Even the taxi behind waits. Not so the cyclist that comes flying through on the outside, not slowing down a jot, swinging in by me and in front of the old man, scaring the bejesus out of him. Probably a few centimeters clearance. A cyclist probably in his late twenties, all the gear, not an escaped estate monkey on a stolen bike expanding his repertoire of anti-social activities.

I had to opportunity at the lights on Tower Bridge Road to ask him if he felt proud to have done that. 'The lights had changed' was the response like that made it alright. I don't know what is a matter with people.

There are some quality twats on Tooley Street. The heady mix of rush hour people crossing the roads at will and in between stationary buses all the way to the traffic lights and the never ending u turns of taxis are the main reason why I avoid it and go down Tower Bridge Road instead.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 30 July, 2015, 05:47:36 pm
Today's commute was by train to Nuneaton for our regular top up of mangy speak phrases interspersed with some pointless Deth By PowerPoint.
Anyway, we didn't get left hooked as we left MC, nor were we hooted and revved at by a goods train as we paused at Coleshill Parkway.
Quite a pleasant journey there and back really.

Now, if we could just loose the bit in between...........
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 30 July, 2015, 06:59:45 pm
I hope, for the other bloke's sake, it wasn't a commuter race this evening. Everytime I glanced behind, he was still there - for about 5 miles. But he was on a road bike and lycra-ed up while I was in my office garb with a briefcase on the rack. I wore myself out somewhat in my determination not to concede ground! Why do I do that to myself?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 30 July, 2015, 07:34:45 pm
Quote from: Pancho on 30 July, 2015, 06:59:45 pm
I hope, for the other bloke's sake, it wasn't a commuter race this evening. Everytime I glanced behind, he was still there - for about 5 miles. But he was on a road bike and lycra-ed up while I was in my office garb with a briefcase on the rack. I wore myself out somewhat in my determination not to concede ground! Why do I do that to myself?

Izzit that you're a badass cyclist?  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 30 July, 2015, 09:10:35 pm
You've never ridden with me, have you? :)

I'm not even a cyclist. I own no lycra, bidons, or track pump. I'm a POB and Proud!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 30 July, 2015, 09:40:36 pm
Rode in this am with a well spoken gent on a beautiful Cervelo S5 with Enve 50mm carbon rims (£2k?) and electronic shifting. Now I like a nice bike but am not fussed about 'aero' or power but this was aero everywhere and it seemed to just glide along. I was on 48x19 on the Tempo and I had to work harder to keep up but traffic was light so it was a good ride. My back hurt just looking at the bike but the bike and the kit on it was lovely. The owner was a a steady rider :thumbsup: so no racing or stupid traffic manoeuvres, just a fastish speed and steady
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 31 July, 2015, 08:02:35 am
Chilly today! I always end up with a sweaty back, but needed the 3 layers I had on at some points. It's always chilly riding into Olveston, compared with Newport and even the empty A48.

I need to get used to the fact that headwinds on the way home are the norm for the area. I think we're forecast another 15mph today, which is ridable but annoying all the same. I felt like I really emptied the tank on the ride home on Wednesday, so I'm moderately fatigued today. I have 2 bottles of strong ale waiting at home though, there has to be a reward for this masochistic behaviour.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 31 July, 2015, 09:40:13 am
first day back after the holiday and boy was it cold.

All compounded by a puncture, and then the bloody wheel would not go back in the drop outs.

Hopefully OK for the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 31 July, 2015, 01:48:41 pm
On the way home last night a gear change went a bit weird and everything stopped turning. I looked down to see a knot in my chain?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Katie on 31 July, 2015, 02:00:46 pm
Quote from: fuzzy (retd.) AAGE on 31 July, 2015, 01:48:41 pm
On the way home last night a gear change went a bit weird and everything stopped turning. I looked down to see a knot in my chain?

OK, I thought it was odd when my chain slipped off crank-wards (instead of towards frame) on Weds, but that's... weird?!  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 31 July, 2015, 02:04:20 pm
Stiff link or worn chainring, combined with finite amounts of improbability, I'll wager.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 31 July, 2015, 04:02:55 pm
Nice rides AM and PM - but where did that chill morning come from?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 31 July, 2015, 07:31:35 pm
Quote from: Pancho on 31 July, 2015, 04:02:55 pm
Nice rides AM and PM - but where did that chill morning come from?
It was a lovely and clear last night, with a (very nearly) full moon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 03 August, 2015, 09:36:32 am
Lovely ride in this morning and managed to do a couple of laps of regents park. Unfortunately Strava did some sort of upgrade and did not record anything >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 03 August, 2015, 12:28:41 pm
Quote from: fields5069 on 31 July, 2015, 08:02:35 am
Chilly today! I always end up with a sweaty back, but needed the 3 layers I had on at some points. It's always chilly riding into Olveston, compared with Newport and even the empty A48.

I need to get used to the fact that headwinds on the way home are the norm for the area. I think we're forecast another 15mph today, which is ridable but annoying all the same. I felt like I really emptied the tank on the ride home on Wednesday, so I'm moderately fatigued today. I have 2 bottles of strong ale waiting at home though, there has to be a reward for this masochistic behaviour.
Christ that is some commute do you do this everyday? What time do you ride down the A48?I am not a psycho killer, I do that commute myself sometimes  ;)

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 03 August, 2015, 02:25:05 pm
No way Jose!

The most consistent I've been recently is 2 weeks worth of 3 times per week, after which I had 2 weeks of once per week. It probably averages out to between 8 and 10 times per month. I'd like to do 3 times per week consistently eventually. It's the wind which usually drains me, more than anything. It's always on the long homeward leg as well, which can get a bit frustrating once I get onto the A4810.

I start from home before 5, just to get the nice empty roads. So I'd get to the Chepstow link road roundabout before 6 usually.

First commute on spd pedals today. Not too bad although on their weakest setting the pedals are still a job to get out of. I did 8 miles fixed yesterday, also using spds. That was interesting!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Otto on 03 August, 2015, 02:32:29 pm
Used the sat nav on the Garmin today instead of my usual route.... took me on an 'interesting' tour of South London...  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 04 August, 2015, 12:23:34 pm
Wasp into the crash helmet at speed. Saw it, angled my head, hoping it would bounce off, nope (that horrible "ziiiip" sound you get when you have something trapped close to your head). Thankfully traffic was light and I was able to quickly stop, gingerly remove my helmet, where the little bastard was busy stinging the liner repeatedly until I flicked it out into the road, redonned the magic hat and off I went.

Could have been so much more horrible. Also, the damned thing completely avoided all the insect mesh and went straight into the open vent.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 05 August, 2015, 12:02:31 pm
I had a wasp fly into my open mouth as I was climbing a hill on my way to the start of an Audax. It stung me on my tongue before I could spit it out. Not too badly I was worrying about the usual audax concerns by the first control.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 05 August, 2015, 01:22:14 pm
Lucky you were wearing a helmet, alexb  :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 05 August, 2015, 01:27:03 pm
Was later this morning, but it was really busy. I think the start of Edin festival is attracting loads more traffic including tour coaches from all over which weave and speed randomly into town. From Corstorphine into the city center I had to be on full alert and deliberately sat behind a couple of times rather than pass the craply driven buses.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 05 August, 2015, 02:06:21 pm
I should have posted a few days ago:

"Pancho is out of office until 24th August and will not be commuting until then. If an urgent need for exercise arises, he will take a spin along the coast".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 05 August, 2015, 02:31:54 pm
Quote from: Pancho on 05 August, 2015, 02:06:21 pm
I should have posted a few days ago:

"Pancho is out of office until 24th August and will not be commuting until then. If an urgent need for exercise arises, he will take a spin along the coast".

Ah, thank you Pancho.  I also forgot to set my Out Of Office here last week.

Basil will not be commuting until Tuesday August 11th.  Interest in in my commutes is not being monitored.  If your interest is urgent, please refer to the commute of another member of this board.

On a related note, I did ask my manager if I could set my work O3 as "meh"
She said that I couldn't.
I'm saving that one for the week before I retire.  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 06 August, 2015, 09:54:08 am
Phew! Well, I've had a bit of a mission the last few days!

On Tuesday, I rode to New Cross from work as usual. However, when I got there, all trains were suspended due to a death on the line :( I had three choices

1) Retrace my route and catch a train to East Croydon.
2) Retrace 50% of my route, and pick up the route home via Stockwell, Brixton and the fuck off big hill.
3) Crack on and ride home in a fairly circuitous route.

I chose option 3, heading for Lewisham, Catford, Penge and home.

My phone-brain interface was playing up, so I ended up riding further than I needed to. It was an interesting ride, as I've often wondered about going home this way instead of the more direct Stockwell, Brixton route. Two things were very clear, firstly that it's a relatively pleasant route with short dangerous stretches, secondly that if I had been more familiar with the route, I'd have been able to ride it at my regular 10-11mph average speed.

Riding the new route also gave me chance to pinpoint exactly why I find certain types of cycling stressful and horrible, yet I find others easy and enjoyable - despite the types of road being virtually the same. When you're riding a route you don't know, there is obviously the navigation pressure although I find that quite minimal - I'm handy with a map. The big difference is the state of mind. You're on Red Alert the whole time - you don't know the road surface or layout, the danger zones, the traffic light sequences or the standard driver behavior. It's mentally draining treating everything as a hazard and working out how to deal with it right there and then.

On my regular route, I'd say I ride about 30% on Green Alert, 60% on Amber Alert and only 10% on Red Alert.

Yesterday

Commuting in the morning was very pleasant indeed. Oh, and if you ride a roadbike with a rear facing GoPro positioned underneath the seatpost clamp - you've got me waving at you as I pulled up behind you at the lights on London Wall where the road goes through the office block.

The way home was also very pleasant, and curiously car-free.

This morning

I woke up late, so did the short route.

My intern was planning on walking to work this morning. She stopped to help a cyclist who got clipped by a car somewhere near to Russel Square. Her good deed was seen and rewarded by a kind cabbie who picked her up and drove her to work for free :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 06 August, 2015, 10:24:55 am
Not sure where you are going, but if I were going London to the gleaming crystal spires of Croydonia, I'd just follow LCN 22 (ish), which threads down through Peckham, Nunhead, Honor Oak, Forest Hill, Sydenham, Penge, South Norwood, and on to Croydon. It's fairly direct on mostly quiet roads. I used to live at the bottom of Anerley Hill and alternated that with the route up the hill (mostly LCN 23, if I recall, though I just go up Fountain Drive). I still occasionally take those routes on my more distant journey to the mountains, mostly when I get sick of sucking bus exhaust pipes on the A23.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 06 August, 2015, 10:44:09 am
Quote from: Jacomus on 06 August, 2015, 09:54:08 am
Commuting in the morning was very pleasant indeed. Oh, and if you ride a roadbike with a rear facing GoPro positioned underneath the seatpost clamp - you've got me waving at you as I pulled up behind you at the lights on London Wall where the road goes through the office block.

I used to work in there...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 06 August, 2015, 10:45:08 am
Quote from: ian on 06 August, 2015, 10:24:55 am
Not sure where you are going, but if I were going London to the gleaming crystal spires of Croydonia, I'd just follow LCN 22 (ish), which threads down through Peckham, Nunhead, Honor Oak, Forest Hill, Sydenham, Penge, South Norwood, and on to Croydon. It's fairly direct on mostly quiet roads. I used to live at the bottom of Anerley Hill and alternated that with the route up the hill (mostly LCN 23, if I recall, though I just go up Fountain Drive). I still occasionally take those routes on my more distant journey to the mountains, mostly when I get sick of sucking bus exhaust pipes on the A23.

This was the route I ended up taking https://goo.gl/maps/oQl0S

The hill factor was reasonable on Lady Bertie (3 speed) Brompton The First.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 06 August, 2015, 11:24:26 am
I rode to the butcher's and back. Total distance = 1 mile.

If I weren't indolently lolling at home on hols, I'd have clocked up 60 miles or so at this point in the week.

I can report that it was a beautiful, if short, ride. Empty roads (one combine and tractor convoy), sun, and downhill (on the way there). And made it back up the BFO (12 meters of climb) on the way back.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 06 August, 2015, 11:56:58 am
Quote from: Jacomus on 06 August, 2015, 10:45:08 am
Quote from: ian on 06 August, 2015, 10:24:55 am
Not sure where you are going, but if I were going London to the gleaming crystal spires of Croydonia, I'd just follow LCN 22 (ish), which threads down through Peckham, Nunhead, Honor Oak, Forest Hill, Sydenham, Penge, South Norwood, and on to Croydon. It's fairly direct on mostly quiet roads. I used to live at the bottom of Anerley Hill and alternated that with the route up the hill (mostly LCN 23, if I recall, though I just go up Fountain Drive). I still occasionally take those routes on my more distant journey to the mountains, mostly when I get sick of sucking bus exhaust pipes on the A23.

This was the route I ended up taking https://goo.gl/maps/oQl0S

The hill factor was reasonable on Lady Bertie (3 speed) Brompton The First.

I always took the back route, an admix of routes 22/23 in old LCN lore. You can thread down from London Bridge through Elephant and Castle – switch there for the faster route through Dulwich and over the big hill – otherwise thread around the back to Burgess Park, then up the Surrey Canal path (or road to the side), through Peckham and up Peckham Rye, across the back end of Nunhead (past the Ivy House pub) and Brockley, over the train tracks, then follow the train tracks past Honor Oak Park, Forest Hill, Sydenham, Penge West, and Anerley stations. From there I'd drop down Seymour Villas and Selby Road to my humble abode just off Penge Road. From mothership (Holborn Circus) to front door was about an hour and my bike weighs more than a neutron star.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 06 August, 2015, 12:18:39 pm
Quote from: ian on 06 August, 2015, 11:56:58 am
Quote from: Jacomus on 06 August, 2015, 10:45:08 am
Quote from: ian on 06 August, 2015, 10:24:55 am
Not sure where you are going, but if I were going London to the gleaming crystal spires of Croydonia, I'd just follow LCN 22 (ish), which threads down through Peckham, Nunhead, Honor Oak, Forest Hill, Sydenham, Penge, South Norwood, and on to Croydon. It's fairly direct on mostly quiet roads. I used to live at the bottom of Anerley Hill and alternated that with the route up the hill (mostly LCN 23, if I recall, though I just go up Fountain Drive). I still occasionally take those routes on my more distant journey to the mountains, mostly when I get sick of sucking bus exhaust pipes on the A23.

This was the route I ended up taking https://goo.gl/maps/oQl0S

The hill factor was reasonable on Lady Bertie (3 speed) Brompton The First.

I always took the back route, an admix of routes 22/23 in old LCN lore. You can thread down from London Bridge through Elephant and Castle – switch there for the faster route through Dulwich and over the big hill – otherwise thread around the back to Burgess Park, then up the Surrey Canal path (or road to the side), through Peckham and up Peckham Rye, across the back end of Nunhead (past the Ivy House pub) and Brockley, over the train tracks, then follow the train tracks past Honor Oak Park, Forest Hill, Sydenham, Penge West, and Anerley stations. From there I'd drop down Seymour Villas and Selby Road to my humble abode just off Penge Road. From mothership (Holborn Circus) to front door was about an hour and my bike weighs more than a neutron star.

Chalk n' Cheese - those two rides.
You actually rode round the Catford Gyratory Jacomus?  :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 06 August, 2015, 01:27:27 pm
I rode round the Catford gyratory once.

Only once, mind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 06 August, 2015, 01:29:55 pm
Wet ride in this morning. I've started using wet lube, since it transpired that dry lube lasts about 5 miles in the wet. However it seems that wet lube doesn't last much longer. It was 26 miles in to work, and by 15 miles or so I started to hear the mild grating sounds which emanate from various moving parts of my bike when it's not oiled. I'll have to leave a bottle of lube at the office I suppose.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 06 August, 2015, 01:55:15 pm
You should change to using 3-in-1 like me then. Drip a bit on every couple of months. Alternatively, I use chain saw oil.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 06 August, 2015, 02:00:08 pm
I've ridden round the Catford gyratory all but two of the times I've attempted it. Lewisham hospital is convenient from there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 06 August, 2015, 02:22:03 pm
Re the Catford Gyratory, once I've been blessed by the giant cat, I just cut through the bus bypass and then jiggle down Canadian Avenue.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jsabine on 06 August, 2015, 07:04:30 pm
I've never had any qualms about the Catford gyratory. Half the time I'm within its orbit, the bus lane is more convenient though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 07 August, 2015, 01:29:16 am
Aye, heading south as I was you ride through the bus lane, but Google wouldn't let me display that. I'd have ridden it, but likely needed a change of trousers!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 07 August, 2015, 09:39:59 am
Well, compared to things like the Purley Way's Lombardy Death Spiral, even the Gladiatorial Ben Hur of Elephant & Castle, the Catford gyratory is a bit of a pussy, it's most clogged with waiting traffic. But I wouldn't class it as life affirming, and possibly given the local driving skills, life deffirming.

The Catford cat is possibly my most favourite thing in London.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 07 August, 2015, 10:25:09 am
Heffalump an' Ars'ole scares the willies out of me even with an engine and a tonne of metal to keep DETH at bay; I'd rather go via Vladivostok than attempt it on fixed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 07 August, 2015, 06:46:10 pm
First commute since I got back from my holliberries, on account of the weather being distinctly meh and a dose of CBA.

Was a fine day, so took a slight long-cut on the way home, giving a nice round 50k.

https://connect.garmin.com/activity/857928768
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Katie on 11 August, 2015, 10:16:29 am
A cyclist walks into a bikeshop holding one of their spokes, and tries to think of a punchline.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 11 August, 2015, 12:02:55 pm
Only my second commute on steel this year - good; almost forget how the 32s soaks up those vibrations, compared to 23mm.

In Drayton a car overtook, and then almost immediately pulled up in front of me.  They seemed to be self conscious of me having to avoid them as they did a how-dare-you-actually-suggest-I'm-in-the-wrong beep, in response to my without-turning-round, open-skyward-palm 'what's going on' shrug...   Just wait 4 seconds will'yer!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 11 August, 2015, 01:02:11 pm
Quote from: andyoxon on 11 August, 2015, 12:02:55 pm
In Drayton a car overtook, and then almost immediately pulled up in front of me.  They seemed to be self conscious of me having to avoid them as they did a how-dare-you-actually-suggest-I'm-in-the-wrong beep, in response to my without-turning-round, open-skyward-palm 'what's going on' shrug...   Just wait 4 seconds will'yer!

AKA: Drayton manners: park and toot.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Katie on 11 August, 2015, 02:18:53 pm
Quote from: Katie on 11 August, 2015, 10:16:29 am
A cyclist walks into a bikeshop holding one of their spokes, and tries to think of a punchline.

The punchline ended up coming from the mechanic:

"Oh, it's you again. We need a loyalty card."
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 11 August, 2015, 04:45:54 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 06 August, 2015, 01:27:27 pm
I rode round the Catford gyratory once.

Only once, mind.

Used to be a regular for me on an occasional commute from Wanstead to Croydon.  Not pretty, but nothing ever seemed to be moving fast enough to be too much of a problem
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 11 August, 2015, 05:16:06 pm
One of my incidents contributed massively to the slow running of traffic through the system. I believe I stuffed it up completely for over an hour. The issue I had with the car with which I collided was not so much its speed, which was moderate, but with its anti-clockwise gyration.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fields5069 on 12 August, 2015, 08:58:57 am
Nice ride in on the single speed. I have copped out from converting to fixed for the moment. I still need some fixed experience, and I'll probably keep the disc cog and torx key handy as a get-me-home measure if/when the freewheel fails.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Diver300 on 12 August, 2015, 06:49:53 pm
24 miles.
1 hour 15 minutes.
In a car.
I don't enjoy the commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 14 August, 2015, 09:44:35 am
Many of the streets around the office are one-way but contraflow cycling is permitted. It's convenient but I'm always wary of this arrangement because motorists are often not expecting something to be coming the other way, and pedestrians usually forget to look both ways when crossing (if they look at all).

So, anyway, I was riding the 'wrong' way down a one-way street when a car turns in from the other end. There's plenty of room for us to pass each other easily, but no, Mr Sporty-Two-Seater-Penis-Extension very deliberately swerves into my path, forcing me to brake sharply, and takes the trouble to shout out of his window that it's a one-way street.

I reply in finest anglo saxon, safe in the knowledge that even if he decides to come after me, he doesn't have a chance of catching me. Brief moment of silliness, all over in a moment, we all move on with our lives.

Except, there's a coda to this sorry tale of everyday road rage: I just checked on Google Street View and it appears the street I was riding down is one of the few that doesn't permit contraflow cycling.

 :facepalm:

(I'm going to go out and check properly at lunchtime because it may be that the Google pic is out of date. And anyway, even if I am in the wrong, some fuckwit using his car as a weapon to intimidate me is neither Big nor Clever.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 14 August, 2015, 10:05:36 am
It would have been a shame if you'd knocked his wing mirror off as he squeezed you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 14 August, 2015, 10:44:03 am
The bigger shame is that it didn't occur to me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 14 August, 2015, 01:59:57 pm
It would have been a bigger shame if he'd decided to assault you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 14 August, 2015, 02:18:20 pm
Does anyone know anywhere in Manchester I can trade my bike in for a kayak?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 14 August, 2015, 02:34:22 pm
Quote from: Kim on 14 August, 2015, 01:59:57 pm
It would have been a bigger shame if he'd decided to assault you.

I think he'd already decided and done that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 14 August, 2015, 02:38:15 pm
Quote from: Pancho on 14 August, 2015, 02:34:22 pm
Quote from: Kim on 14 August, 2015, 01:59:57 pm
It would have been a bigger shame if he'd decided to assault you.

I think he'd already decided and done that.

I was thinking of what happened to clarion in similar circumstances.

Two way streets with a "no entry to motor vehicles" at one end are a good idea in principle, but in practice this sort of conflict is a real hazard.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 14 August, 2015, 03:30:47 pm
Quote from: Pancho on 14 August, 2015, 02:34:22 pm
I think he'd already decided and done that.

Indeed. I probably should report him to the police for assault. I'm sure they'd send out their finest detectives to investigate.  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 14 August, 2015, 04:50:00 pm
Wet this morning, but not as bad as I'd feared.
1st time on my Rose hybrid for a long time. Fast, tall and uncomfortable just I remember. Disk brakes in the wet though are nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 17 August, 2015, 10:56:36 am
Dear Birmingham City Council,

I have been very pleased with the lovely wide smooth tarmac you've been putting down on the towpaths, despite the disruption they've made them a joy to use to traverse the bits of the city I do. no longer do I get stuck in muddy puddles when it rains nor slowed down by ruts you could loose a tank in.

So why the holy heck have you decided the best thing to do is to cover that lovely tarmac with some orrible gravel rubbish, what on earth do you think it adds to the facility apart from gravel rash if I come off, and the chance of coming off due to the loose surface. I know you had a thing for pebbledashing the council houses way back but you don't have to do it to everything.

D.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 17 August, 2015, 11:20:54 am
Quote from: davelodwig on 17 August, 2015, 10:56:36 am
Dear Birmingham City Council,

I have been very pleased with the lovely wide smooth tarmac you've been putting down on the towpaths, despite the disruption they've made them a joy to use to traverse the bits of the city I do. no longer do I get stuck in muddy puddles when it rains nor slowed down by ruts you could loose a tank in.

So why the holy heck have you decided the best thing to do is to cover that lovely tarmac with some orrible gravel rubbish, what on earth do you think it adds to the facility apart from gravel rash if I come off, and the chance of coming off due to the loose surface. I know you had a thing for pebbledashing the council houses way back but you don't have to do it to everything.

D.

Has anyone gotten to the bottom of this practice? what does it do for anyone? cars get their paint chipped and covered in tar and so do bikes. Walkers get hit by pinging loose gravel and no one benefits!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: graculus on 17 August, 2015, 11:53:18 am
The upgraded towpaths in Wolverhampton have been treated in a similar fashion. I have been told, by someone a  bit closer to the decision makers, that it is to make sure that  bikes make some noise that pedestrians can hear. Not entirely convinced myself.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 17 August, 2015, 01:00:22 pm
Also in Leeds.

It's a Canal and River Trust thing.  They want to maintain the aesthetic of the canal environment, hence the gravel, slippery brick surfaces with sticky-out bits to annoy wheeled users, etc.  That the aesthetic for most of Birmingham's canal environment is "1970s industrial estate" seems to have passed them by.

The idea is that the bitmac is laid and then surface-dressed with gravel, which is given a couple of weeks to embed and then the loose stuff swept away, leaving a durable surface[1].  It's not actually supposed to be a hazard to cyclists.  The problem is they've been more than a little slack about the sweeping, with lots of buck-passing.

See endless discussion on the birminghamcyclist forum.

TBH, I'm more than a little underwhelmed by the quality of the bitmac.  It's hand-rolled, because the bank can't take the weight of the required machinery, which seems to result in an undulating surface that causes the front end of my Dawes to resonate painfully in the towpath-appropriate 10-12mph speed range.  Ironically, the Brompton seems to cope somewhat better.


(I've actually toyed with the idea of molishing a cyclepath-sweeping attachment for my trailer, following Robert NOTP's successful experiment with a broom strapped to his bike.  What puts me off is the prospect of riding the towpaths with a trike+trailer combo.  All those Silly Sustrans Gates  :hand:)


[1] Having seen how well this works on roads, I'm sceptical.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tiermat on 17 August, 2015, 01:09:19 pm
It'll be worse on paths and roads that don't take heavy traffic, like canal paths.

The whole idea of chip'n'spray is that the mechanical work of getting the road surface stable is done by cars, vans and trucks passing over it.

Take those types of vehicles out of the equation and you have a recipe for a shite path surface.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: billplumtree on 17 August, 2015, 01:10:34 pm
Quote from: Kim on 17 August, 2015, 01:00:22 pm
It's a Canal and River Trust thing.

Who ISTR used to be called something else before they underwent a highly professional and thoroughly convincing name-changing exercise

(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/441/19837908289_7b39c9d449_h.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/we1sZx)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 17 August, 2015, 01:13:25 pm
What's happening on the Birmingham & Worcester towpath between here and town is that there's now a singletrack strip on the non-water side of the path where the bicycle traffic has done a reasonable job of clearing the loose gravel and smoothing the surface - bikes roll much better on this bit, so the effect multiplies.  And then there's an accumulation of loose gravel on the water side of the path, where you have to ride when overtaking.  What could possibly go wrong?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 17 August, 2015, 01:17:10 pm
Quote from: billplumtree on 17 August, 2015, 01:10:34 pm
Quote from: Kim on 17 August, 2015, 01:00:22 pm
It's a Canal and River Trust thing.

Who ISTR used to be called something else before they underwent a highly professional and thoroughly convincing name-changing exercise

(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/441/19837908289_7b39c9d449_h.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/we1sZx)

It's not just a re-branding:  When the Tories got in, one of the things they did was disband a load of quangos - British Waterways and British Cycling among them.  C&RT was hastily formed in the aftermath when they realised that something needed to exist to take on the responsibility for physical stuff.  Or something.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 17 August, 2015, 01:25:23 pm
Quote from: Kim on 17 August, 2015, 01:00:22 pm
Also in Leeds.

It's a Canal and River Trust thing.  They want to maintain the aesthetic of the canal environment, hence the gravel, slippery brick surfaces with sticky-out bits to annoy wheeled users, etc.  That the aesthetic for most of Birmingham's canal environment is "1970s industrial estate" seems to have passed them by.

The idea is that the bitmac is laid and then surface-dressed with gravel, which is given a couple of weeks to embed and then the loose stuff swept away, leaving a durable surface[1].  It's not actually supposed to be a hazard to cyclists.  The problem is they've been more than a little slack about the sweeping, with lots of buck-passing.

See endless discussion on the birminghamcyclist forum.

TBH, I'm more than a little underwhelmed by the quality of the bitmac.  It's hand-rolled, because the bank can't take the weight of the required machinery, which seems to result in an undulating surface that causes the front end of my Dawes to resonate painfully in the towpath-appropriate 10-12mph speed range.  Ironically, the Brompton seems to cope somewhat better.


(I've actually toyed with the idea of molishing a cyclepath-sweeping attachment for my trailer, following Robert NOTP's successful experiment with a broom strapped to his bike.  What puts me off is the prospect of riding the towpaths with a trike+trailer combo.  All those Silly Sustrans Gates  :hand:)


[1] Having seen how well this works on roads, I'm sceptical.

The bit of canal I'm using (digbeth to small heath) seems to have been rolled using one of those small sit on rollers, probably because the bank is wider and stonger here owing to all the locks leading out of Brum. It was lovely and smooth and a joy to ride on and now it's pants. But still better than the mud.

D.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 17 August, 2015, 01:30:15 pm
Quote from: davelodwig on 17 August, 2015, 01:25:23 pm
The bit of canal I'm using (digbeth to small heath) seems to have been rolled using one of those small sit on rollers, probably because the bank is wider and stonger here owing to all the locks leading out of Brum. It was lovely and smooth and a joy to ride on and now it's pants. But still better than the mud.

I haven't been down that way since it was a mudbath.  http://www.birminghamcyclist.com/photo/grand-union-canal refers - I particularly like the before and after photos on page 6.

Also http://www.birminghamcyclist.com/photo/money-well-spent for what happens after prolonged exposure to bike traffic (the Grand Union isn't as busy as a commuter route, I don't think).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimC on 17 August, 2015, 02:26:10 pm
Quote from: Kim on 17 August, 2015, 01:17:10 pm
Quote from: billplumtree on 17 August, 2015, 01:10:34 pm
Quote from: Kim on 17 August, 2015, 01:00:22 pm
It's a Canal and River Trust thing.

Who ISTR used to be called something else before they underwent a highly professional and thoroughly convincing name-changing exercise


It's not just a re-branding:  When the Tories got in, one of the things they did was disband a load of quangos - British Waterways and British Cycling among them.  C&RT was hastily formed in the aftermath when they realised that something needed to exist to take on the responsibility for physical stuff.  Or something.

The de-quangification of BW had been proposed quite a few years ago, when I was running a narrowboat hire business on the K&A (1998-2002). BW itself was fed up with taking the short-termist changes in government funding while being unable to raise money in its own right, so lobbied for its own change of status to a charitable trust. That's resulted in a fixed government grant, the ability to control and use as security its physical assets, and it's now a much more attractive option for potential donors. It hasn't all been plain sailing (sorry!), but my former waterways colleagues would not want to go back to how it was.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 17 August, 2015, 02:44:30 pm
So not necessarily a bad thing, apart from their boatist-centric ideas of what towpaths are for.

TBH, I have some sympathy for that, in as much as I don't believe that towpaths are suitable for transport cycle infrastructure[1].  But leisure cyclists and pedestrians (including those with wheels) are legitimate path users, and inaccessible surfaces and anti-cyclist gates are a waste of money as well as discriminatory.


[1] Though I've said before that putting a proper surface on the city's canals would be a quick, cheap win for Birmingham's existing cyclists, and it's certainly a better use of the money than magic paint.  The problem is that towpath cycling doesn't scale well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 17 August, 2015, 06:21:55 pm
AIUI the Canal & River Trust is the result of the amalgamation of British Waterways and the navigation authority bit of the Environment Agency.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ianrauk on 17 August, 2015, 10:25:59 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 06 August, 2015, 01:27:27 pm
I rode round the Catford gyratory once.

Only once, mind.

I do the gyratory every evening. I much prefer it to the bus lane.
If you get green lights all the way round it's a good rush, though you do have to hold the lane on the back stretch past Maccy D's. It's not for the faint hearted.
If you are lucky enough to have timed it right, you are through the other side far quicker then the bus lane.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 18 August, 2015, 08:52:45 am
Nice run in the sunshine this morning. You can tell summer is on the war out as it was nippy first thing. Still will be nice on the way home, especially because I am going the scenic route, and will be visiting St jeromes screen and green men on an old church.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 August, 2015, 09:37:26 am
So...back into this thread now I have a commute to ride, and don't have to sit whinging on the sidelines.

Pathfinding this morning to Lewisham.  I was a bit slower than I used to be (no surprises), and, not being a CSH, my route was a tad more fiddly, and rather more rolling than the South London flatlands.  I was expecting to take an hour, but I was only at Catford by that time, and I'd forgotten that I'd established my clock was five minutes slow when I left.  The A21, which I hadn't been looking forward to at all, was delightful, with wide, empty bus lane (somewhat lacking on the rest of the route :/ ) sweeping me all the way to Lewisham, where I was deposited in a horrendous traffic jam for roadworks near the station.  As a result, I watched my train leave as I approached the platform, then had to wait for the next (which was, inevitably, delayed).

I was late for work, which is a bit of a poor example, but I reckon I can get fitter and faster, and, if I learn the junctions so I can do some traffic jamming, and don't have to carry all my gear and have to keep consulting the map, I could shave a fair deal of time off that.  I was calculating in my head that I could just about have completed the whole distance in the same time as the mixed mode, but I'd most likely be knackered.

Raw commute distance is 18.summat km, pretty much the same as before. :thumbsup:

Action plan:

1.  Ride
2.  Find somewhere to store clothes at work
3.  Buy some work clothes
4.  Ride
5.  Learn the route
6.  Ride
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 18 August, 2015, 09:47:16 am
Came in via dropping a map with my sister to go with the niece and nephew to my parents today. This modified my route in to some very pleasant single track roads that are no motor vehicles except for access.  :thumbsup:

Time from sister's to work == time from home to work with a short additional section and a footbridge over the dual carriage way and railway to negotiate first.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ianrauk on 18 August, 2015, 09:59:43 am
Quote from: clarion on 18 August, 2015, 09:37:26 am
So...back into this thread now I have a commute to ride, and don't have to sit whinging on the sidelines.

Pathfinding this morning to Lewisham.  I was a bit slower than I used to be (no surprises), and, not being a CSH, my route was a tad more fiddly, and rather more rolling than the South London flatlands.  I was expecting to take an hour, but I was only at Catford by that time, and I'd forgotten that I'd established my clock was five minutes slow when I left.  The A21, which I hadn't been looking forward to at all, was delightful, with wide, empty bus lane (somewhat lacking on the rest of the route :/ ) sweeping me all the way to Lewisham, where I was deposited in a horrendous traffic jam for roadworks near the station.  As a result, I watched my train leave as I approached the platform, then had to wait for the next (which was, inevitably, delayed).

I was late for work, which is a bit of a poor example, but I reckon I can get fitter and faster, and, if I learn the junctions so I can do some traffic jamming, and don't have to carry all my gear and have to keep consulting the map, I could shave a fair deal of time off that.  I was calculating in my head that I could just about have completed the whole distance in the same time as the mixed mode, but I'd most likely be knackered.

Raw commute distance is 18.summat km, pretty much the same as before. :thumbsup:

Action plan:

1.  Ride
2.  Find somewhere to store clothes at work
3.  Buy some work clothes
4.  Ride
5.  Learn the route
6.  Ride

I do the A21 every day from MaccyD's in Downham all the way to Lewisham. It's nice and speedy and as you say, with the bus lanes is delightful. Every now and then though it can be blocked up for no apparent reason. Usually around the Canadian Avenue turn off. That junction can also be dodgy at times. You just have to hold the lane to make sure that no one cuts in from the right of you to turn down there. As to the Lewisham roundabout, trust me, it's a thousand times better at the moment then it used to be. At least with the roadworks it has slowed the traffic a lot. It wasn't known as the RAB of Death for no reason.... :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 August, 2015, 10:10:03 am
I can see that. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 18 August, 2015, 10:18:07 am
Before getting to that Lewisham RAB of hell, you can cut through the park just beforehand if you need to get to the other side.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 August, 2015, 10:47:08 am
Thanks.  I shall investigate.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ianrauk on 18 August, 2015, 10:53:51 am
Quote from: clarion on 18 August, 2015, 10:47:08 am
Thanks.  I shall investigate.

On Molesworth Street (before the RAB of Death), there's a cyclelane on the left.
It turnes left under a bridge into Cornmill Gardens. Follow that, turn right after the river and that will take you to the crossing at the station.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jakob W on 18 August, 2015, 12:00:06 pm
Plus side of the miserable weather is that it was cool enough not to cook under the poncho on my way in. It's only 3 miles, but even in the pissing rain I didn't wish I were in one of the cars I was leapfrogging.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 August, 2015, 03:17:26 pm
Gah!  Itching to be back on the bike again in just exactly the way I wasn't with the trains.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Katie on 18 August, 2015, 09:20:24 pm
Looked out of window at bucketing rain.
Reconsidered cycling to work, because I'm still too fatigued from a weekend of not sleeping enough to trust myself with brakes in the rain.
Repacked contents of rack bag into messenger bag, located umbrella.
Walked out of front door into sunshine and bright blue skies.

FFS.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 August, 2015, 09:58:59 pm
That sucks.

Any road, I did manage to ride home.  It was long and hilly.  I do need to get fitter. :(

Catford is so polluted, it's really horrible.  And the number of good drivers in South London is about the same as it ever was :(

I had fun :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 19 August, 2015, 08:59:12 am
last night I flew home, 24 minutes for the 6.5 miles including stopping at traffic lights.

Monday evening as I approached home I caught a group of four ladies who were out for a ride, I saw the front look and signal to move out to turn right at the roundabout ahead and by hanging back slightly was able by my road position to hold the car behind me and create the space for all four to move out. Nice to see them and be described as a knight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 19 August, 2015, 10:29:40 am
Great ride home last night with a 20k detour, via St Jeromes ancient screen and a nice pub in the middle of nowhere. That was probably one of the nicest evenings for a ride this year, hardly any wind, balmy temperatures and hardly any cloud.

This morning was nippy again so I had to don the gillet, which came off half way in to work. The ride home is supposed to be raining. Boo!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 20 August, 2015, 09:30:32 am
moist ride home last night, cape on but not wet enough to justify glasses off. Just steady warm rain.

This morning was rapid, normally the ride in is a short 26 to a short 30 depending on traffic lights and traffic at junctions. Today I put my foot down twice, to get the paper and a touch and go at one of two minor to major right turns. The other right turn was clear thanks to the level crossing to the left being down, the minor to major left was clear and the two major to minor rights were at full pace, result was a longish 23  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 20 August, 2015, 09:41:04 am
Yes moist indeed.  Had to leave early so I could call into the solicitor's on the way home.
Why does it always bloody rain when you have to make a visit like that?

It's not turning up wet that bothers me - I really am past that sort of thing.  No, what actually annoys me is the "Oh dear, poor thing" etc etc you get from the people you have to visit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 20 August, 2015, 10:09:50 am
Moist indeed!!

What other country can you be in where you go from glorious sunshine to pissing down rain in two days. My commute is about an hour, and last night it was drizzly then the heavens just opened, it was bad even for South Wales  :facepalm: for about 45minutes. Luckily it wasn't really windy and not cold. But that was the most wet I have been all year.

The upshot was that when I got in last night, I took my clothes from the bike and drove in today.  :facepalm: So my proposed cycle of 3days this week remained at 2. The 3 would have taken my mileage to 100miles, rather than the usual 100km.  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 20 August, 2015, 10:30:48 am
First day back riding after hoilday today. Not as much quicker as I thought a few days dragging panniers over Scottish hills would have made me, but nice to be able to throw a light bike around a bit :)

[eta]Almost collected a pigeon in the face on the way home. Stupid thing flew straight out in front of me. Does that count as an Avian SMIDSY?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 23 August, 2015, 03:18:32 pm
I'm back in the the office tomorrow after three weeks of idleness during which I have barely turned a pedal. The office bit I am dreading. But I'm rather quite eager to get back in the saddle for the commute. Just hope my muscles haven't shrivelled up!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 23 August, 2015, 03:20:25 pm
You'll be fine for the ride.
The office, I'm not so sure about......  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 23 August, 2015, 07:39:24 pm
The weather forecast ain't helping - it's going to be torrential. High summer, and I've just spend 5 minutes laying out my full waterproof rig (poncho, souwester, and SPD boots[1]).

[1] May get substituted with a pair of wellies if it really looks grim.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 24 August, 2015, 07:30:49 am
Crumbs, that was harder than it should have been! Must check the brakes aren't jammed on!

Also didn't see a single other cyclist. Weird.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 24 August, 2015, 09:09:52 am
A folding bike helped me today.  No large miles, but just connecting. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ianrauk on 24 August, 2015, 10:37:36 am
I managed to get to work this morning without getting wet from the reported and expected heavy downpours. Walked through the door at work for it to absolutely throw it down. Lucky me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 24 August, 2015, 10:57:24 am
Quote from: ianrauk on 24 August, 2015, 10:37:36 am
I managed to get to work this morning without getting wet from the reported and expected heavy downpours. Walked through the door at work for it to absolutely throw it down. Lucky me.
+1, I just got the odd spitting. However it was really windy and having changed to M+ tires, it felt very difficult
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 24 August, 2015, 04:40:51 pm
That was wet, wet, wet! I am soaked. Poncho overwhelmed by sheer volume of water. Well, top half was ok-ish but trousers are dripping wet. Need to get some gaiters or chaps or something - warm summer rain is bearable but winter will be a different kettle of fish.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 24 August, 2015, 08:10:18 pm
Wet on the way in, but dodged the wet stuff on the way home having spent 50 minutes in a car back from site in the pouring rain.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 25 August, 2015, 08:09:52 am
Got rained on again! But perfect poncho volumes this time. The bucket of water collected in the "apron" confirmed that it was as wet as it felt and that had I been wearing a jacket, overtrousers would have been essential. But when the rain had started, all I'd had to do was
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 25 August, 2015, 10:18:19 am
Quote from: Pancho on 25 August, 2015, 08:09:52 am
Got rained on again! But perfect poncho volumes this time. The bucket of water collected in the "apron" confirmed that it was as wet as it felt and that had I been wearing a jacket, overtrousers would have been essential. But when the rain had started, all I'd had to do was

Don't leave us in suspense, man!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 25 August, 2015, 11:15:06 am
Quote from: Pancho on 25 August, 2015, 08:09:52 am
Got rained on again! But perfect poncho volumes this time. The bucket of water collected in the "apron" confirmed that it was as wet as it felt and that had I been wearing a jacket, overtrousers would have been essential. But when the rain had started, all I'd had to do was

Dre-eee-eee-eee-eam?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 25 August, 2015, 12:47:21 pm
Quote from: Pancho on 25 August, 2015, 08:09:52 am
Got rained on again! But perfect poncho volumes this time. The bucket of water collected in the "apron" confirmed that it was as wet as it felt and that had I been wearing a jacket, overtrousers would have been essential. But when the rain had started, all I'd had to do was

Use a straw to get a drink.  No need for bidons.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 25 August, 2015, 12:58:00 pm
Avoided the rain to work and timed it to perfection on the way home in London so i just had to dry out my shorts from the wet roads spray. Pretty damn lucky.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 25 August, 2015, 01:35:23 pm
Quote from: Basil on 25 August, 2015, 12:47:21 pm
Quote from: Pancho on 25 August, 2015, 08:09:52 am
Got rained on again! But perfect poncho volumes this time. The bucket of water collected in the "apron" confirmed that it was as wet as it felt and that had I been wearing a jacket, overtrousers would have been essential. But when the rain had started, all I'd had to do was

Use a straw to get a drink.  No need for bidons.

Have you had proper hailstones yet?  I remember a ride where I was lying down on the job and during a brief but dramatic hailstorm they accumulated on my jacket in a not dissimilar manner.  Due to the airflow they were taking their time to get round to melting after the shower stopped, so I amused my companions by flicking hailstones at them for the next couple of minutes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 25 August, 2015, 02:09:54 pm
For some reason, I really wasn't up for the commute this morning.  Very strange as I enjoy it very much usually. 
That is the first time I felt like that in ages.  I knocked three miles off the usual route so it ended up only .5 miles longer than it could have been.

I do hope this isn't a sign of mojo problems beginning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 25 August, 2015, 07:11:49 pm
Quote from: clarion on 25 August, 2015, 10:18:19 am
Quote from: Pancho on 25 August, 2015, 08:09:52 am
Got rained on again! But perfect poncho volumes this time. The bucket of water collected in the "apron" confirmed that it was as wet as it felt and that had I been wearing a jacket, overtrousers would have been essential. But when the rain had started, all I'd had to do was

Don't leave us in suspense, man!

Ah, yes. Sorry about that. "...all I had to do was..." not fat finger my phone when submitting my AM commute report!

I think the mundane point I was in the middle of making was that the cape meant I didn't need to hop around the side of the road putting on overtrousers. Or something else equally sufficiently boring for me to have forgotten.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 25 August, 2015, 07:14:26 pm
Quote from: Basil on 25 August, 2015, 02:09:54 pm
For some reason, I really wasn't up for the commute this morning.  Very strange as I enjoy it very much usually. 
That is the first time I felt like that in ages.  I knocked three miles off the usual route so it ended up only .5 miles longer than it could have been.

I do hope this isn't a sign of mojo problems beginning.

If it's any consolation, I'm finding it tough going just now as well. I think it's the combination of returning to work after a break and the, frankly appalling, weather. At least, that's all I hope it is - and I hope it's transitory - as, right now, the idea of getting up at 0545 and cycling into a rainy headwind tomorrow fills me intense gloom.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 26 August, 2015, 07:11:32 am
Intense gloom justified :-(

Monday was rain. Tuesday was rain. Today was wind. And rain.

Oh well, no one died. And it beats driving.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 26 August, 2015, 09:14:39 am
Set off in light rain which got steadily heavier. Was soaked at work. Slippy roads too, some idiot bus driver right up my @rse going over tram lines.
I dont use any wet weather clothing, but get changed here and leave clothes out to dry in the store.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 26 August, 2015, 09:17:34 am
Set off in the dry, stopped for my paper and came out of the newsagents to rain that then became torrential, proper roads running as rivers job.

So glad that my locker at work contains a spare pair of socks.  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 26 August, 2015, 09:24:34 am
Straight into the wind and rain, took nearly 10 minutes longer than on the way in yesterday.

Didn't help that I was out-sprinting the rain on the way home yesterday, and the saddle on my road bike is too low. Back on the tourer this morning, but quads were stinging and hills just hurt.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 26 August, 2015, 06:10:14 pm
Huzzah! Rain had stopped when I headed out this afternoon - no need for any waterproofs. Amazing. Still windy, though. :(

Re buses: the First Bus drivers round here seem to be A1 Gold Standard when it comes to overtaking cyclists. Or, maybe it's the same drivers overtaking me every morning and they're not representative. But they wait, indicate and pull over really wide - fully across the centre line. And, get this, this is when I'm *in* a painted cycle lane. A* for First Bus.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 26 August, 2015, 11:00:38 pm
Quote from: Pancho on 26 August, 2015, 06:10:14 pm
And, get this, this is when I'm *in* a painted cycle lane. A* for First Bus.

Wow! That is impressive. I'd say that is worth letting them know how much it is appreciated.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 28 August, 2015, 02:12:31 pm
Quite thick fog in Marlow when I left this morning so donned the gilet, arm and knee warmers. Quarry Wood Road saw my outer clothing take on a bit of a silvery sheen. Ascending the hill saw me break out of the fog in to the sun light.

I then had the joy of riding with the sun to my left beyond meadows and common land. The dew covered grass etc. was like a silver carpet.

Beautiful. The type of thing that makes me glad to be a cyclist :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 28 August, 2015, 08:38:01 pm
This morning was wonderful here as well. Sun just rising into a dramatic sky scattered with towering dark shadowed clouds and casting long red light across the gravelled beach and subdued sea. No wind. Fantastic.

The ride in was easy without pedalling into wind driven rain.

But I was exhausted coming home. Utterly worn out and kitten weak. I may not be exactly an athlete but I don't usually feel like this after a 16 mile day. I think it was due to lack of food - all I'd eaten for two days was a slice of (vegetarian) pizza and some salad. A whole packet of shortbread later, I perked up a bit.

Hopefully I'll be better after a long weekend of idleness.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 28 August, 2015, 09:17:28 pm
Not today.  Yesterday.  Home-bound.  Half a mile or so of reek from muck-spreading followed by a shorter stretch with the smell of new cut grass.  Glad it wasn't the other way about.   As it happens the bit where the two smells overlapped was a really quite odd olfactory experience. 

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 01 September, 2015, 10:11:02 am
Garmin showed 11C this morning. Lovely fresh morning to ride in. Was a bit later though and got caught up in bus gridlock at west end of princes street. That really is a shite junction.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jakob W on 02 September, 2015, 08:43:17 am
Had a bit of a close pass from a Mick George cement mixer lorry on Mill Road (narrow, 20 limit) yesterday, who then cut in, squeezing the cyclist in front of me into the kerb. As we caught him at the next two set of lights this annoyed me enough to fire off a polite email to the company asking whether they could have a word and remind the driver of the need to give vulnerable road users more space. Didn't expect to hear anything back, other than perhaps haulier's association boilerplate, so was surprised to have a call from the fleet manager that afternoon apologising; he was going to pull the footage from the on-board cameras and review. From what he said they take safety pretty seriously, so full credit to them for responding to complaints.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 02 September, 2015, 10:08:12 am
I need to leave earlier.  Still getting caught up in the bus gridlock.  Nice morning again, same temp as yesterday, and dry. Got a bit wet on return commute last evening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ianrauk on 02 September, 2015, 10:58:15 am
After 6 glorious traffic free weeks of cycle commuting. The schools in Bromley are back and so is the school run traffic. Oh well, it was great whilst it lasted... roll on half term.

C'mon some fellow cycle commuters. It's not that cold out there. Why are you wearing enough gear to get you through a 6 month Arctic expedition?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 02 September, 2015, 11:29:03 am
Last night I watched a Police car leave the station on blues and twos, a couple of miles down the road I found out why:

Honda Civic broadside across the lane, arse in the hedge and at 45 deg on the drivers side wheels only. Two police cars in attendance with two officers controlling traffic and a third supporting teh drivers head / neck while they awaited the paramedics.

Otherwise a very pleasant ride home. 1:10 to ride home on fixed (18 miles) compares favorably with 1:11 to get in using bike and two trains.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 02 September, 2015, 01:13:55 pm
Quote from: ianrauk on 02 September, 2015, 10:58:15 am
After 6 glorious traffic free weeks of cycle commuting. The schools in Bromley are back and so is the school run traffic. Oh well, it was great whilst it lasted... roll on half term.

C'mon some fellow cycle commuters. It's not that cold out there. Why are you wearing enough gear to get you through a 6 month Arctic expedition?

I wore a top and MTB short and I have to say that arm warmers will be in use sooner than later!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 02 September, 2015, 01:17:12 pm
Northerly wind. Makes for cool temperatures, but did allow me to average over 16mph on the way to work which was the first time for a while :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 03 September, 2015, 11:03:52 am
Gosh it was cold, despite the wool baselayer and leg and arm warmers.  I think I need to get something warmer on tomorrow. Fingers were frozen for half the journey.

Spied a lovely orange fratello in the basement, looked like an audax bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ianrauk on 03 September, 2015, 01:25:32 pm
Cooler temperatures this morning so started out wearing the windcheater. Half way through the commute it had to come off and back to short sleeves.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 07 September, 2015, 01:23:00 pm
First fixed-gear commute in 3 years (had to give the last one away because we moved and hadn't room and one bike had to go and I figured it could be the one most easily and cheaply replaced in the future and the future arrived last month!).

It was lovely. Easy, fluid, and that extra alertness you get when you're looking a little further ahead and planning how to ride without stopping. And not having to think about changing gear.

The extra cars on the road just made it more fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: canny colin on 07 September, 2015, 09:50:38 pm
Lots of yellow/red  bikes , flags  &  bunting . Tour of Britain route looks very colourful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 07 September, 2015, 11:33:08 pm
Fantastic tractor slip stream this morning for about a mile and a half. Going at the perfect speed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 08 September, 2015, 08:06:23 am
Quote from: tonycollinet (recently Andustar) on 07 September, 2015, 11:33:08 pm
Fantastic tractor slip stream this morning for about a mile and a half. Going at the perfect speed.
Oooo, perfect. Them and JCB diggers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 08 September, 2015, 08:53:45 am
The farmer next to us hasn't realised it's not 1947 anymore. Old school farming - square bales and all. His tractors are so slow you spend a lot of time freewheeling if you get stuck behind one! Narrow road means overtaking is inadvisable.

Next door the other way, OTOH, has all the latest agricultural bling: mammoth high speed behemoths driven by Romanians in a hurry.

Neither is any use for getting a pull.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 08 September, 2015, 09:03:40 am
Season of mists and mellow fruitfulness.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 08 September, 2015, 09:20:17 am
Quote from: Pancho on 08 September, 2015, 08:53:45 am
The farmer next to us hasn't realised it's not 1947 anymore. Old school farming - square bales and all. His tractors are so slow you spend a lot of time freewheeling if you get stuck behind one! Narrow road means overtaking is inadvisable.

Next door the other way, OTOH, has all the latest agricultural bling: mammoth high speed behemoths driven by Romanians in a hurry.

Neither is any use for getting a pull.

Square bales are quite popular in the horse owning world as you don't need a telehandler to move them, also smaller baler quite good for small fields and gateways.

He probably has a new tractor, the farmers I know all seem to be hoarders though and can show you the tools there dad bought in 1927 and they've held onto because you never know when you might need them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 September, 2015, 11:22:52 am
Rode to Lewisham.  Missed the train by a minute again.  But I had set off later, through faffage.  Cut almost 5 mins off the moving time.  Fortunately, there is a backstop train that gets me to my desk a few minutes late.  Catford wasn't so bad today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Hattyfatner on 08 September, 2015, 07:23:32 pm
First commute of the school year along the South Downs Way - certainly won't be the last  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 08 September, 2015, 07:35:29 pm
Must remember to find some gloves for tomorrow AM. My fingers were a bit frozen today!

But the run home was glorious. Stopped by the sea enjoying the warmth.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 08 September, 2015, 08:11:57 pm
Quote from: Hattyfatner on 08 September, 2015, 07:23:32 pm
First commute of the school year along the South Downs Way - certainly won't be the last  :smug:
The whole of it ? ? ?  (!!!)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Hattyfatner on 09 September, 2015, 07:39:53 am
Quote from: hatler on 08 September, 2015, 08:11:57 pm
Quote from: Hattyfatner on 08 September, 2015, 07:23:32 pm
First commute of the school year along the South Downs Way - certainly won't be the last  :smug:
The whole of it ? ? ?  (!!!)

I wish - just a small section from Portslade to Ditchling Beacon, which was actually more than enough on the Thorn
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 09 September, 2015, 07:58:10 am
Phew !
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si_Co on 09 September, 2015, 08:43:35 am
Ah, don't you just love autumn? The crisp air, the cheeky shafts of sunshine, the odd crunch of leaves under the wheels, the carnage of the start of the schoolrun complete with runaway buggies in the cycle lane. GET A GRIP WOMAN. DON'T LET GO OF IT ON THE BRIDGE!   :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 09 September, 2015, 08:49:42 am
First commute for the new 29er this morning. Bit of comedy off road exploration which meant a) I was a bit later than usual and b) I was even more grateful for the showers at work ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 09 September, 2015, 09:06:27 am
Monday morning, nearly taken out by a SSE transit that came out of the side turning on my right at my side. My fault ! I'm coming from a road that is closed for road works so there was no need for him to look left before pulling out  :o. Not that he would have seen me as his side window was still dewed up.  :facepalm:

Last night 30.7km @ 29.6kph average  :smug: Included an early comment from another cyclist, who I passed and then he caught me when traffic behind another cyclist held me up, that I was pushing on. "I'm in a hurry to get home and out again". Kick from 32kph to 38kph and didn't see him again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 09 September, 2015, 12:52:10 pm
Quote from: fuzzy (retd.) AAGE on 09 September, 2015, 08:49:42 am
First commute for the new 29er this morning. Bit of comedy off road exploration which meant a) I was a bit later than usual and b) I was even more grateful for the showers at work ;D

Point of order:  Does it count as COR if you do it on a 29er?

I suppose the morning commute factor may still qualify...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 09 September, 2015, 02:14:05 pm
Quote from: Kim on 09 September, 2015, 12:52:10 pm
Quote from: fuzzy (retd.) AAGE on 09 September, 2015, 08:49:42 am
First commute for the new 29er this morning. Bit of comedy off road exploration which meant a) I was a bit later than usual and b) I was even more grateful for the showers at work ;D

Point of order:  Does it count as COR if you do it on a 29er?

I suppose the morning commute factor may still qualify...

I had oarsum off roading skillz once. Now I am comedy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 09 September, 2015, 06:32:57 pm
Quote from: fuzzy (retd.) AAGE on 09 September, 2015, 02:14:05 pm
I had oarsum off roading skillz once. Now I am comedy.

Ah yes.  It turns out that I have a similar problem.  I'm sure I used to be able to bunny-hop a bike, for example.  Possibly related to weighing about twice what I did when I last attempted it.  On the other hand, my 1337 recumbent 5|<11z mean that I'm a lot better at riding up slippery slopes than I used to be.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 09 September, 2015, 07:33:07 pm
Trying to bunny hop a speed bump was a rude awakening for me to the fact that I'm not the lithe teenager that I once was!

That and falling off on ice and being in broken rib agony for weeks last winter. Once, I'm sure, I'd have stayed upright. Or, had I gone down, I'd have done it in a more graceful and less damaging manner than the man-machine tangle that followed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 09 September, 2015, 07:49:21 pm
What happened there  :o

I had absolutely no power coming home today. Fortunately I was at my office rather than site so it was only a 6.5 mile ride home. Where this morning was a long 24 including the paper stop and the junctions this evening was a short 31  :-[

Nice to see so many other cyclists on the road, including a gent on a single speed 90's rigid ATB who was flying such that I was working hard to catch / pass him and there was no way I could drop him till our routes diverged.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 September, 2015, 10:14:15 pm
I have commuted two days in a row.  My legs have put forward a proposal that every other day may be a better idea until I am rather fitter.

I was passed by two cyclists.  One was an unladen woman cyclist who left me for dead near the top of Perry Hill.  The other, a young man on a Viking road bike, who passed me on a hill, but I caught up with him easily enough when the road levelled out. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 09 September, 2015, 10:19:08 pm
Shut Up Legs! ;D

Good to hear you are back commuting on two wheels :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 09 September, 2015, 11:24:48 pm
Quote from: Kim on 09 September, 2015, 06:32:57 pm
Quote from: fuzzy (retd.) AAGE on 09 September, 2015, 02:14:05 pm
I had oarsum off roading skillz once. Now I am comedy.

Ah yes.  It turns out that I have a similar problem.  I'm sure I used to be able to bunny-hop a bike, for example.  Possibly related to weighing about twice what I did when I last attempted it.  On the other hand, my 1337 recumbent 5|<11z mean that I'm a lot better at riding up slippery slopes than I used to be.

Moar comedy off roading on the way home. Preceeded by a warning call to TMIPIML to say that, due to impending getting lost in the woods, I might be a tad late.

Did some exploring of the back alleys, tracks accross the commons and bridleways through the woods, including some quite rapid descending on loose surface. A few sixpence- half crown moments but staying upright was maintained.

This mountain biking lark is a bit addicitve.........
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 10 September, 2015, 07:26:17 am
Nothing interesting today.

But the rose red fingers of dawn over a flat wine dark sea was uplifting.

Sorry. Got a bit Homeric there. But ships in the distance always feels a bit classical.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 10 September, 2015, 08:53:23 am
On the brompton today. Nice wee change. Took my shorter route, but even so was pleased at the 24.6 kph avg. SLight increase in effort compared to doing that on a normal, but not that much at all.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 10 September, 2015, 09:03:32 am
One heart stopper this morning, when a dark grey corsa came past me as we approached and passed a junction on the right. The problem was that moments after they passed me and the junction the vehicle that was turning left out of the junction pulled out without looking our way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 10 September, 2015, 09:07:45 am
Bugger!  A visitation this morning.  :(
Down to my laziness really.  I noted last night that the front could probably do with a bit more air.  Remembered again this morning as I wheeled the bike out of the house.  Thought, "Oh it will be allright."  Hit a deep sharp edged pot hole at speed (my sort of "at speed")
Bit of a struggle as the spare tube was way too fat for the skinny front tyre.
That's my first commuting puncture for more years than I can remember.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 10 September, 2015, 09:32:56 am
A Bulgarian lorry and a red car came together at E&C this morning meant that I had a stress free ride past this point!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 September, 2015, 10:35:58 am
Wish I had had the bike this morning when dealing with the disaster of South Eastern Trains.

Even if I had had the folder, I could have arrived at work on time... ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 10 September, 2015, 11:08:48 am
http://www.standard.co.uk/news/london/tulse-hill-bridge-strike-trains-cancelled-after-hgv-ploughs-into-bridge-in-south-london-a2943431.html (http://www.standard.co.uk/news/london/tulse-hill-bridge-strike-trains-cancelled-after-hgv-ploughs-into-bridge-in-south-london-a2943431.html)

Is this the culprit?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 10 September, 2015, 11:29:44 am
I feel knackered so made my way in quite slowly. Also had a headwind which I hope stays so I can have a tailwind home.

Saw a loverly mercian near Holland Park.  There is a certain aesthetic about skinny steel tubes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 10 September, 2015, 11:32:25 am
Quote from: benborp on 10 September, 2015, 11:08:48 am
http://www.standard.co.uk/news/london/tulse-hill-bridge-strike-trains-cancelled-after-hgv-ploughs-into-bridge-in-south-london-a2943431.html (http://www.standard.co.uk/news/london/tulse-hill-bridge-strike-trains-cancelled-after-hgv-ploughs-into-bridge-in-south-london-a2943431.html)

Is this the culprit?

It annoys me that so many high vehicles get caught out by this bridge repeatedly.  There's a ton of signs saying HGV go this way/diversions!  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 10 September, 2015, 03:45:58 pm
Twenty times a year! (http://www.networkrail.co.uk/aspx/3563.aspx)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 10 September, 2015, 05:41:10 pm
Quote from: velosam on 10 September, 2015, 11:29:44 am
Saw a loverly mercian near Holland Park.  There is a certain aesthetic about skinny steel tubes.

very much so in fact
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 10 September, 2015, 08:04:15 pm
Various good things this morning.
Gorgeous sliver of a moon and accompanying star.
Roe deer leaping in front of me.
A couple of owls.
A tail wind.

Slightly less good things.
The reek from a flock of goats at Netherton home farm.
The vile reek from muck spreading out by Poulton Fields.
Was a bit dark, looks like I'll have to fit the lamps now.  *Sigh*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 10 September, 2015, 08:53:55 pm
Riverside Thames Path this morning and this evening as it was so blissful on both occasions.
Took full advantage of the Ferguson Close to Napier Avenue paving slab marimba (you have to ride it to know what I mean - Andrij, was this part of your silly ride? If not, it should've been.) ;)
Love it.
There's every chance that I'll be doing the same tomorrow :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 10 September, 2015, 08:56:05 pm
I think the last time I cycle commuted, sometime before PBP, the kids were on holidays. Today's traffic was a shock to the system and not a pleasant one.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jsabine on 10 September, 2015, 11:47:36 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 10 September, 2015, 08:53:55 pm
Took full advantage of the Ferguson Close to Napier Avenue paving slab marimba (you have to ride it to know what I mean - Andrij, was this part of your silly ride? If not, it should've been.) ;)
Love it.

Yes, it was. I like your description.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 11 September, 2015, 08:49:30 am
The comedy effect of my off roading is reducing. Practice makes, well, not perfect in my case but, less Doh!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Hattyfatner on 11 September, 2015, 07:16:15 pm
First close pass in a fair while on the commute in today and still stewing in an impotent rage :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 11 September, 2015, 07:27:37 pm
Quote from: jsabine on 10 September, 2015, 11:47:36 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 10 September, 2015, 08:53:55 pm
Took full advantage of the Ferguson Close to Napier Avenue paving slab marimba (you have to ride it to know what I mean - Andrij, was this part of your silly ride? If not, it should've been.) ;)
Love it.

Yes, it was. I like your description.
I'll bet that sounded choice, with six of you on it  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 11 September, 2015, 07:28:34 pm
Saw rain forecast for the weekend so left work before lunch so I could spend the afternoon cleaning the gutters on the house. Which was unpleasant. However, the ride home was v pleasant: sunny and practically car-free but quite a few cyclists.

Hoping it does rain tomorrow now as the work I should have done today is sitting on my desk!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 14 September, 2015, 08:58:11 am
Nasty looking crash on Warwards Lane this morning.  Large van over on its side.  It must have been serious as, after having ignored the police car across the road further down the hill, I then found that not only was the road taped off, but both pavements as well.
I followed two other cyclists down a pack passage footpath that I never knew was there and then enjoyed the utter chaos that was the Raddlebarn Road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 14 September, 2015, 09:05:54 am
Failed to go in today. For some reason I thought everyone was at an exhibition today so i'd be bored in an empty office [1]. However, no one's doing anything until tomorrow so the the office is full after all! So they all think I'm a rain fearing wuss.

[1] Of I'm going to be on my tod then better at home where I can listen to the radio.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 14 September, 2015, 09:35:19 am
Schoolchildren . . . will you never learn. Watching 90% of them sloshing up our road, thoroughly soaked, wearing just a shirt or jumper – no raincoat – in the deluge. "You know what?" I thought, "I'll give it a few minutes before I head out," bedecked in wet-weather gear, and all was fine for the first 100 yards, then the heavens opened again.

You know what? I need a new waterproof jacket.  >:( >:( >:( >:( >:( and one more for luck  >:(

Back on the bike anyway, for the first time in a week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 14 September, 2015, 09:48:17 am
And I'd forgotten just how dark the mornings are at the end of September before the clocks go back.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Hattyfatner on 14 September, 2015, 08:15:49 pm
Renault Megane gave me a wide berth today (woop-woop)as opposed to a shave on Friday. Don't normally do the whole obscene gesture thing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 14 September, 2015, 08:21:04 pm
After today's commute I discovered that one of my aged Ortlieb pannier is no longer water proof. My underpants were  sodden.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 14 September, 2015, 08:57:25 pm
Don't think I can avoid going in tomorrow. Hope this wind and rain dies down :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 15 September, 2015, 07:41:09 am
Well that was rather grimtastic.

Dark. Hat kept blowing off. Rain kept dribbling down neck. And the wind nearly had me in the river. It was brilliant! Loved it.

Glad it wasn't high tide when I went through - judging by the amount of beach (and sea) across the road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 15 September, 2015, 08:43:47 am
I arrived covered in mud :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 16 September, 2015, 08:12:40 am
After 3weeks of the bike due to self enforced lazy bastard mode, I had my first commute in. It is remarkably chillier, but with the old faithfull Helly Hansen base layer on, with the gillet and I was plenty warm.

Saw some cows feeding stood like statues in the field, and 2 squirrels dice with death crossing the road. Further on down one hadn't made it! Anyway a nice pootle in, and 8minutes quicker than usual.

It is going to be lashing down on the way home though  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 16 September, 2015, 09:26:06 am
Back to commuting to my normal office today after a week of train assisted commutes to an off site base. Decided to ride along the main roads, and the conditions were absolutely perfect. If it wasn't for the queueue through the site gate I'd have averaged 18mph for the first time ever, still my fastest average speed. :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 16 September, 2015, 09:26:43 am
I rode to work. First time since december last year.

Very slow and quite cold - not being able to get my pulse up has the side effect of not being able to work hard enough to stay warm! It was 4C.

Of course, the p*Nct*re fairy welcomed me back.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 16 September, 2015, 09:30:53 am
Good to hear you're back on the commute MrC. Hope the farie has extracted her price for a while now and leaves you in peace. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 17 September, 2015, 11:16:20 am
Thankfully no rain on the way home, but I was travelling home at dusk thanks to an enforced request to stay on  :demon: So it was the quick route on the  A48, which was thankfully incident free!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 18 September, 2015, 07:25:31 am
Is slug tennis on suburban roads cruel or a service to local gardeners?

I'm sorry gardeners but today I spared them all even though it meant doing a crazy slalom.

No rain but much evidence of last night's torrents. No wind. Nice ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 18 September, 2015, 09:22:09 am
Not sure if it was the old Sport contact I stuck on the rear of the tourer to replace my damaged marathon, or the overnight rain, or both; but the ride in today was very slippery.

[eta]There's quite a few comments around about poor wet grip with the sport contacts looking round the net, and thinking about it I think that's why I took that one off the bike a couple years ago. Hopefully everything'll be dried out for the ride home. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 18 September, 2015, 03:57:11 pm
My first commute in a long time. And my last, to that destination anyway. The bastards have hoofed me out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 18 September, 2015, 04:48:42 pm
Gits >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 18 September, 2015, 05:46:44 pm
Sorry to hear that, h.

Hope you're not on the bench too long.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 18 September, 2015, 07:40:05 pm
Quote from: hatler on 18 September, 2015, 03:57:11 pm
My first commute in a long time. And my last, to that destination anyway. The bastards have hoofed me out.
Much commiseration Rob. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 20 September, 2015, 09:28:37 pm
Thanks all for the sympathy. But no worries, I've had a glorious Summer on effective gardening leave and the pay-off is enough that the wolf is still some way from the door. Better start job-hunting.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 21 September, 2015, 07:46:25 am
Amazing sunrise again this morning. Superb. One of the great things about cycling in is that you can stop and gaze so easily.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 21 September, 2015, 06:45:06 pm
Red sky in the morning proved to be an accurate warning today. I got utterly soaked on the way home.

I seem to have lost the art of keeping dry while cycling. :( I think I need a longer cape with more side coverage and I need something better on my legs than Aldi's best. Also discovered that if the front pocket of the cape is open at all then it fills with water - but the inner pocket material ain't waterproof. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Hattyfatner on 21 September, 2015, 08:13:04 pm
Even a bruised cocyx ( an over enthusiastic sit down) and heavy rain couldn't spoil my first commute on new bike...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 21 September, 2015, 09:50:00 pm
damp ride in this morning, I got caught in a short shower before I could get under the trees.

Glorious ride home on damp roads as I was over an hour behind the heavy rain.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 22 September, 2015, 08:31:18 am
Damp on the desmond dekker but dry so was a nice run in. Apart from entering Newport when some plum decided to cut me up on the inside down the bus lane  :o Fair to say I shit myself!

Oh yeah I realised after about 2miles that I forgot to put my helmet on  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 22 September, 2015, 08:40:28 am
Vicarious-only commutes for me for a while. I need to sort my crap out and man-up and simply get on my bike and go round in circles for a bit each morning.

Today's vicarious commute - mini-hatler setting off for school in a biblical downpour. No drying room at school. He's going to be **soggy**.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 22 September, 2015, 11:04:30 am
Damp road but sunny overhead this morning. Definitley colder than a couple days ago. I was on the singlespeed for the first time in a while, and climbing up Thornhill it felt a long time too as I was wishing I had a lower gear, but i made it to the top. :)

Also first commute with my new Super C rack bag. It's huge, holding more than one of my front rollers!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 22 September, 2015, 01:50:03 pm
Utterly soaked on my commute in today, worse than I was yesterday evening.  I did bring in some spare clothing, so can swap over on the commute home, but I'm just trying to get my shoes down to a level of wet, rather than utterly sopping.

This morning, whilst waiting to cross onto Clapham Common, which was far freer of dog walkers (or indeed, anyone) than usual, a DUKW went past, which would be the extreme approach to dealing with the wet!

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/small.php?size=512&file=DUKW_CommuteIn_20150922.jpg) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/DUKW_CommuteIn_20150922.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: orienteer on 22 September, 2015, 03:44:15 pm
And they can always light the fire if they get cold. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 22 September, 2015, 04:44:27 pm
The underpass (https://goo.gl/maps/FBFMv3XaQKM2) between Estreham Road and Conyer's road was "interesting".

After this mornings rain, the drainage had obviously blocked (it was yesterday afternoon, too). It was about 0.5m deep. Some pedestrians, who had obviously just waded through warned me about it, but my shoes were already soaked from this morning, so I just went for it!  Woosh. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 23 September, 2015, 08:37:47 am
Cracking ride home, with double the climbing! Just caught a little rain cloud on the way home, but after that lovely sunshine  8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 23 September, 2015, 06:18:32 pm
Quote from: Under the arches on 22 September, 2015, 08:31:18 am
Damp on the desmond dekker

Your ears were alight?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: falcon on 23 September, 2015, 06:47:56 pm
Lovely sunrise on the way to work. Packed in my 90 miles car commute in july and changed jobs. Sold car and  now cycle 25miles a day. Loving it at the moment,  just got to get through winter........ mtb spikes at the ready!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 23 September, 2015, 07:19:47 pm
Dawn is now coinciding with the sea leg of my commute and I love the combination of light and water. Every day brings a different atmosphere - some mornings it's dark and intimidating with waves champing at the shore. The next day it can be flat, low early sun with a hint of the residue of summer slanting across a peaceful, quiet, transparent sea.

Soon, though, it will be just dark and the only sea I'll encounter are tendrils of cold spray reaching out of the night af me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 24 September, 2015, 07:17:50 am
Just finished wringing my socks out. That was biblically wet. It was dry when I set out with nothing more to warn me than ominous darkness and absence of stars. I debated bothering with waterproofs but, fortunately, took my cue from the atmospherics.

I really must get my wet weather routine sorted. I need to upgrade from Aldi trews, get a peaked hat (I'm a spec wearer and currently rain means blindness), and maybe upgrade the Cape to a Carradice. Or maybe revert back to jackets and coats. But I need to do something!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: billplumtree on 24 September, 2015, 08:29:16 am
Quote from: Pancho on 23 September, 2015, 07:19:47 pm
Soon, though, it will be just dark and the only sea I'll encounter are tendrils of cold spray reaching out of the night af me.

Well, yeah, but at least you'll have your sea legs eh?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Socks on 24 September, 2015, 06:52:06 pm
Went into work on my usual route, lovely clear sunny morning.  But an hour later than the usual time (special buys at Aldi required a stop off on the way.)  Six miles - one driver failed to give way at a roundabout; one very close pass when overtaking; another driver started pulling out in front of me at a T junction, just saw me in time and stopped with a foot to spare.

Conclusion - if the driver isn't expecting to see a cyclist, they won't.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 25 September, 2015, 09:26:30 am
Unusual route for me today as I had to drop off my car for a service on the way. I discovered that, 1) The garage is a good mile further from work, not closer as I thought and b) The garage owner opens up a bit late.

Ended up being a bit of a sprint.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: closetleftie on 25 September, 2015, 01:57:42 pm
Yesterday, on the A65 in to Leeds:

Long straight-ish section, mixed 30 & 40 mph zone, cycle lane, busy with motons. A big group of cyclists forms, as it sometimes does, flashmob-stylee. And it was a pleasure. No racing, no half-wheeling, no one riding overly close. Just a dozen of bikes clipping along the cycle lane at 30-35kph.

Pulling up at the lights, some wag says "It's like the Tour de France, except with hairy legs". Gruff voice comes from the back "speak for ye'self".  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 25 September, 2015, 02:05:07 pm
The only company I had this morning was passing a dead badger. And, on the way home, a dead badger and a lot of flies. That'll be pongtastic over the next fortnight :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 28 September, 2015, 09:11:32 am
After yesterday's 200km ride and the club ride on Saturday my legs are in pieces! Didn't commute today :( However my new Genesis Day one should be arriving so that's what I'll be building tonight!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 28 September, 2015, 10:44:18 am
Taken out by a squirrel.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 28 September, 2015, 11:21:52 am
Quote from: Lady Cavendish on 28 September, 2015, 10:44:18 am
Taken out by a squirrel.

Ouch!  Is the bike OK?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 28 September, 2015, 11:28:14 am
All ok, silly squirrel. Squirrel ok, bike fine, just a bit of handlebar tape scuff, me fine, jacket scuff and bit gravel rash plus hip bruise. All live to tell the tale.

Why are they so silly? Ran nearly in front of me, then the other way, then back in front of me and kept going, all in about 3 seconds!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 28 September, 2015, 11:32:21 am
Quote from: Lady Cavendish on 28 September, 2015, 11:28:14 am
All ok, silly squirrel. Squirrel ok, bike fine, just a bit of handlebar tape scuff, me fine, jacket scuff and bit gravel rash plus hip bruise. All live to tell the tale.

Why are they so silly? Ran nearly in front of me, then the other way, then back in front of me and kept going, all in about 3 seconds!!

I had that three times yesterday! i swear they are the most suicidal animals we have in the UK. Utter loons! :D Glad to hear everything is ok.

On a side note , I do see TONS of dead squirrels these days on the roads. Rather sad to see.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 28 September, 2015, 11:56:05 am
They're trying to avoid snipers predators.  Except you don't act like a predator, because you're trying *not* to hit them, and it all goes horribly wrong.  Someone suggested recently that the best method is to aim straight at them, and they'll take care of being somewhere else at the last second.

I'm not sure I'd like to employ this technique against a diseased rabbit or particularly stupid pheasant, though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 28 September, 2015, 01:14:42 pm
Particularly stupid pheasant?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 28 September, 2015, 01:32:55 pm
Quote from: benborp on 28 September, 2015, 01:14:42 pm
Particularly stupid pheasant?

It's a race-to-the-bottom intelligence wise, I know.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: closetleftie on 28 September, 2015, 01:55:52 pm
Quote from: mrcharly on 16 September, 2015, 09:26:43 am
I rode to work. First time since december last year.

Very slow and quite cold - not being able to get my pulse up has the side effect of not being able to work hard enough to stay warm! It was 4C.

Of course, the p*Nct*re fairy welcomed me back.

Sounds proper miserable actually. Give my regards to the sodding fairy. And welcome back to the commute - at least you know it can only get better!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 28 September, 2015, 07:27:10 pm
Quote from: Lady Cavendish on 28 September, 2015, 11:28:14 am
All ok, silly squirrel. Squirrel ok, bike fine, just a bit of handlebar tape scuff, me fine, jacket scuff and bit gravel rash plus hip bruise. All live to tell the tale.

Why are they so silly? Ran nearly in front of me, then the other way, then back in front of me and kept going, all in about 3 seconds!!

You wait, when it gets in your house (https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=71905.msg1491112#msg1491112).....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 28 September, 2015, 09:32:58 pm
Nice ride in capped by the fabulous patience of the PP Plant Hire lorry that followed me for a mile through up hill bends whilst waiting for sufficient visibility to pass me.  :thumbsup:

Got delayed leaving work because windoze decided it had to apply 34 updates and we are not allowed to leave until the PC is shut down and powered off. This delayed me sufficiently to miss the train so I rode home. A couple of sections of exploring whilst following NCN routes / my nose to try an alternate route. Avoided the bit I wanted to but the route is further and probably not much better so will probably revert to the direct route.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 29 September, 2015, 08:45:10 am
Beautiful morning, though down to 7.8C at one point.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 29 September, 2015, 10:25:25 am
Quote from: sg37409 on 29 September, 2015, 08:45:10 am
Beautiful morning, though down to 7.8C at one point.

Isn't that when Jesus was really born? or was that 7 AD? Interesting ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 29 September, 2015, 11:10:40 am
Was a nice run in this morning. A dead squirrel & dead pigeon on the desmond.

A little cold, so I will be in the new Aldi tights next week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 30 September, 2015, 08:45:38 am
Quote from: Ham on 29 September, 2015, 10:25:25 am
Quote from: sg37409 on 29 September, 2015, 08:45:10 am
Beautiful morning, though down to 7.8C at one point.

Isn't that when Jesus was really born? or was that 7 AD? Interesting ride.


I didnt really get that, but it was 6.6C this morning. Love riding in in the cool mornings: It warms up beautifully and the return commute is much warmer, so I'll freeze 1st thing to not be overdressed later. (but last 2 mornings, I'd have settled for 3/4 shorts and warmer arms.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 30 September, 2015, 09:35:49 am
Well, four days back into commuting regularly (after last year's accident) and I found myself back on the deck again. This time I was filtering in a cycle lane alongside a line of stationery traffic when the passenger in a lorry decided to get out. I took the edge of the door on my neck and shoulder and the force of the road on my arm and hip.  Nothing feels broken but I’ll have some colourful bruises by bedtime.  The poor guy was quite distraught and kept apologising. 

Annoyingly, I don’t normally use cycle lanes in those conditions, but bad parking meant that the lane opposite was blocked up as well so there was no room to filter on the right.

The bike was fine 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 30 September, 2015, 09:42:07 am
Oh bummer !  Bad luck.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 30 September, 2015, 05:31:52 pm
Quote from: Kim on 28 September, 2015, 11:56:05 am
They're trying to avoid snipers predators.  Except you don't act like a predator, because you're trying *not* to hit them, and it all goes horribly wrong.  Someone suggested recently that the best method is to aim straight at them, and they'll take care of being somewhere else at the last second.



Running from the grass verge 15 feet away, right up to the pointy bit of the predator is a really odd way of avoiding said predator though. Then there is the danger that they don't see the spokes, and decide the best way of being somewhere else is to hop through the wheel.

Worse than lemmings. At least lemmings are predictably suicidal.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 30 September, 2015, 08:57:22 pm
Sun setting and evening glow on the way back - very good. 

Stopped at lights in town.  As I set off, having signaled left, some 'urban warrior' on a MTB heading straight on (passed him 200m back on-road), undertook in front of me off the pavement, as I'd just set off from the lights & was turning left...   ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 30 September, 2015, 10:32:04 pm
Quote from: Redlight on 30 September, 2015, 09:35:49 am
Well, four days back into commuting regularly (after last year's accident) and I found myself back on the deck again. This time I was filtering in a cycle lane alongside a line of stationery traffic when the passenger in a lorry decided to get out. I took the edge of the door on my neck and shoulder and the force of the road on my arm and hip.  Nothing feels broken but I’ll have some colourful bruises by bedtime.  The poor guy was quite distraught and kept apologising. 

Annoyingly, I don’t normally use cycle lanes in those conditions, but bad parking meant that the lane opposite was blocked up as well so there was no room to filter on the right.

The bike was fine 
That's b@st@rdly ;(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 01 October, 2015, 01:14:33 pm
That is truly awful luck, Jurek Redlight. Hope you're okay.

My ride in this morning was wonderful. I've sorted all the little niggles you get when you've put together a new-to-you frame and I was in the zone. I enjoy my job but, this morning, I was sorely tempted to just keep cycling and see where I ended up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 01 October, 2015, 05:54:48 pm
This eve, a pair of coppers were parked up and speed-camming speeders on my result. Saw them pull two over. Result!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 01 October, 2015, 06:10:36 pm
Many years ago a speed gun cop on my evening commute stepped forward and called out to me "17 mph". 
Bugger, if I'd have realised he was clocking me, I'd have put a bit more effort in.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 01 October, 2015, 06:15:06 pm
I had a "13?  Is that all?" from one once.  I did offer to turn round and have another go when I got to the top...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 02 October, 2015, 10:34:03 am
3 hours this morning- that fog was bl**dy freezing. Winter really has happened, my feet nearly fell off!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 02 October, 2015, 11:14:39 am
Nice this am, a bit of mist around then the sun came out - I'm using s/s jersey & shorts, but with arm n leg warmers atm.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 02 October, 2015, 12:32:43 pm
The sun's position in the morning and evening in London is now directly in my eyesight... cue huge amount of near misses with pedestrians and bollards!  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: falcon on 02 October, 2015, 01:00:19 pm
Came out without  my gloves, running  to late to go back  and  get them, couldn't  feel  my fingers  when  got to  work!  Garmin was showing  3 degrees. Brrrrrrr
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 02 October, 2015, 04:41:01 pm
Quote from: Ham on 29 September, 2015, 10:25:25 am
Quote from: sg37409 on 29 September, 2015, 08:45:10 am
Beautiful morning, though down to 7.8C at one point.

Isn't that when Jesus was really born? or was that 7 AD? Interesting ride.

As some may have noticed I did read that as BC. Oh well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 02 October, 2015, 06:41:23 pm
Last commute for a few weeks today, my project management have decided that it is sufficiently dark at commute o'clock that they will provide an alternate means of transport to site.  :-\

GN commute will change from 1:15 to between 30 and 45 minutes.

BN my fitness will go to pot.

MBN the alternate appears to be a smart forfour.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 02 October, 2015, 06:43:51 pm
Eh?! They are telling you how you have to travel to work?!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 02 October, 2015, 06:48:57 pm
No, if I was in my base office I could keep cycling, but I am on assignment at a clients site beyond the office. Therefore the journey counts as business travel, I can claim the expenses for the rail section and I have to conform to the business travel risk assessments.

To be honest at the moment the commute is at it's worst, I am riding out of the low sun and the roads are prone to heavy fog.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 02 October, 2015, 06:59:17 pm
Sounds like H and S gone mad to me.

Was very foggy indeed this morning, half froze to death in it- I miss daylight
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 05 October, 2015, 12:22:05 pm
The shortlived but much appreciated coda to summer ended abruptly overnight. Last week, dawns were rose red on the horizon, misty in the valley, and cold to the fingers. This morning was wet wind harried leaves, dark, warm, and rain splashed.

The combination of darkness, rain, spectacles, and cheap lights rendered me semi blinded and I splashed through unseen puddles and crashed over wind felled leaves and small branches. With the flapping of my cape and the rattle of raindrops on my hood, it was a noisy commute.

Loved it!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 06 October, 2015, 09:13:27 am
Nice run for 2 3rds of the ride, just before the heavens opened. It was unseasonably mild, then it got wet wet wet! Hopefully my shoes will have dried for the ride home  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Katie on 06 October, 2015, 04:51:13 pm
Bunch of students who must be new to Manchester, casually ambling in and out of the bicycle bit of the shared use cycle path taking you from the Sustrans track through the supermarket carpark and onto the Sustrans track again at the other side.

I was approaching from behind and breathed a sigh of relief as I got closer and they ambled into my way again, but left the pedestrian half of the path completely clear so that I could safely overtake, which I did so, and as I zipped past them, called out "You're in the bike bit!" - in a friendly way so that hopefully they'd get the idea they're meant to walk on the bit with the pictures of people walking, rather than the other side.

Hear a yell from behind me "GET OFF YER BIKE IT'S ILLEGAL!"

Stopped bike, conveniently right next to one of the little painted bicycles on the path. Pointed down at it, and said "Pretty sure THIS is a bike path, mate"

Got back on bike, cycled off without waiting to hear what they had to say next.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 06 October, 2015, 05:10:14 pm
Wet and miserable this morning (see other thread). Even wetter this afternoon. Didn't think such wetness was actually possible. The main leg of my commute is on a rural, undrained road and it was very deep. Fortunately, I was on the uphill side - if it doesn't drain away overnight, I'll be riding at the "deep end" tomorrow morning and that's bottom-bracket deep!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 07 October, 2015, 08:43:47 am
Thankfully, my boots had dried out over night, it had stopped raining, and the road had drained somewhat. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 07 October, 2015, 08:48:39 am
Total gridlock due failed lights at Maybury and road works all along the A8.  Pretty dodgy with all the drivers getting impatient, but once clear of the snarl up, it was more or less deserted along through corstorphine.  Dry this morning too, as a bonus. Not as forecasted.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 07 October, 2015, 08:55:15 am
Quote from: Pancho on 01 October, 2015, 05:54:48 pm
This eve, a pair of coppers were parked up and speed-camming speeders on my result. Saw them pull two over. Result!
It's a linguistic result too!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 07 October, 2015, 09:15:54 am
What a commute. Green lights all the way to Tower Bridge road meaning I got into work in 17.5 minutes resulting in a 15.6mph average. That's amazing for my route which has elventy billion traffic lights. Also saw a cyclist pulled over on nine elms road for going through a red and collecting a ticket  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: falcon on 07 October, 2015, 12:12:39 pm
Quickly rode past a lorry driver who was syphoning diesel from his tank whilst dragging on his fag!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 07 October, 2015, 06:39:08 pm
You can chuck a lit match into a bowl of diesel and the only thing that happens is that the match goes out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 07 October, 2015, 06:50:11 pm
Quote from: Mr Larrington on 07 October, 2015, 06:39:08 pm
You can chuck a lit match into a bowl of diesel and the only thing that happens is that the match goes out.

Didn't Mythbusters show that this also happens with petrol a surprising percentage of the time?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 07 October, 2015, 07:11:56 pm
Quote from: Kim on 07 October, 2015, 06:50:11 pm
Quote from: Mr Larrington on 07 October, 2015, 06:39:08 pm
You can chuck a lit match into a bowl of diesel and the only thing that happens is that the match goes out.

Didn't Mythbusters show that this also happens with petrol a surprising percentage of the time?

I'd imagine. It's only the vapour-phase that burns, not the liquid (so cars don't blow up when driven off cliffs). Of course, the vapour is relatively dense and petrol modestly volatile, so it will collect in confined and unventilated places. Throwing a match is a not good idea if you're in whooshing distance.

I know near-zilch about diesel but it's less volatile and goes bang under pressure rather than ignition so I don't imagine it burns very well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 07 October, 2015, 07:21:07 pm
One thing I do know about diesel is that it's what they put bin-liners full of in the boot (alongside the high explosive) when they want to film a car driving off a cliff.  Good for acrid fireballs with plenty of smoke, but takes a bit of effort to achieve.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 07 October, 2015, 07:26:10 pm
Quote from: falcon on 07 October, 2015, 12:12:39 pm
Quickly rode past a lorry driver who was syphoning diesel from his tank whilst dragging on his fag!

The danger is not that of fire but of absence of friction when he slops some on the road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 07 October, 2015, 07:28:34 pm
Quote from: Pancho on 07 October, 2015, 07:26:10 pm
Quote from: falcon on 07 October, 2015, 12:12:39 pm
Quickly rode past a lorry driver who was syphoning diesel from his tank whilst dragging on his fag!

The danger is not that of fire but of absence of friction when he slops some on the road.

GPWM!   >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Diver300 on 07 October, 2015, 09:56:35 pm
Diesel fuel at room temperature is about as likely to burst into flames as molten candle wax. Now we are quite happy to have candles with significant pools of melted wax, and a flame for good measure, and they never, ever produce spontaneous fireballs.

Without a wick, or some way of vaporising the diesel fuel or producing a mist of droplets, diesel won't burn.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 07 October, 2015, 10:01:09 pm
Indeed.
But it goes well when you put some on a vice and hit it hard with a hammer  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 08 October, 2015, 08:43:45 am
Lovely morning for a ride in, still not happy with the roadworks mess along the A8 to corstorphine though, and I find that I'm hurrying along that stretch of contra-flow to not piss off the traffic behind me. Not sure how long theyre planned to be there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 08 October, 2015, 07:15:45 pm
On the way home this evening....
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/574/21417093994_23375196cf_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/yCycTh) (https://flic.kr/p/yCycTh)  (https://www.flickr.com/photos/jurekb/)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 09 October, 2015, 09:11:49 am
I kno it sounds daft but I had forgotten just how cold frosty mornings are. I think the shorts were a bit of a mistake this morning. Beautiful morning, mind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 09 October, 2015, 10:55:05 am
Rode in from Pikes Pool where I'd been setting up a Scout Camp last night.

I really love the country lanes, especially in the morning and the crisp clean air.

D.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 09 October, 2015, 02:01:05 pm
My journey in was enriched by a blonde woman dressed in all-black racing snake kit on a light blue road bike. I first encountered her in Lewisham, where she overtook me,  and rode a little way behind her (i.e. not drafting or competing) all the way to Tower Bridge Street.  She was strong and fast and it was hysterical to watch her effortlessly pasting all of the male roadies who would attempt, and fail, to lift themselves to her pace when they realised they have been overtaken by a Gurl.   ;D

It also helped that she really knew how to ride in heavy traffic. :thumbsup:

Add in the beautiful weather and it was a perfect ride.  And tonight is looking even better.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 12 October, 2015, 07:41:14 am
Right at the end of my journey, it looks like they're doing some filming.  The parking in front of my building has been suspended, and there's a huge number of lorries and vans, plus a handful of blokes in high-vis stopping anyone else from parking.  I suspect it's not going to be something contemporary, because they seemed to be covering up the white parking lines with some grey material, roughly the colour of the tarmac.  I guess that also means it won't be set in the depths of history either, since tarmac is hardly going to be seen prior to relatively modern Edwardian times.

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/small.php?size=300&file=vlcsnap-2015-10-12-08h34m41s613_adj_text.jpg) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/vlcsnap-2015-10-12-08h34m41s613_adj_text.jpg)  (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/small.php?size=300&file=vlcsnap-2015-10-12-08h33m41s973_adj_text.jpg) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/vlcsnap-2015-10-12-08h33m41s973_adj_text.jpg)  (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/small.php?size=300&file=vlcsnap-2015-10-12-08h35m20s063.png) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/vlcsnap-2015-10-12-08h35m20s063.png)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Clemo on 12 October, 2015, 08:22:46 am
first morning with the neck warmer, Hello winter  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 12 October, 2015, 08:47:45 am
My commute today was dark and star-lit. Cold, but not cold enough to justify stopping to rummage for gloves.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 12 October, 2015, 08:02:06 pm
Quote from: TimO on 12 October, 2015, 07:41:14 am
Right at the end of my journey, it looks like they're doing some filming.  The parking in front of my building has been suspended, and there's a huge number of lorries and vans, plus a handful of blokes in high-vis stopping anyone else from parking.  I suspect it's not going to be something contemporary, because they seemed to be covering up the white parking lines with some grey material, roughly the colour of the tarmac.  I guess that also means it won't be set in the depths of history either, since tarmac is hardly going to be seen prior to relatively modern Edwardian times.

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/small.php?size=300&file=vlcsnap-2015-10-12-08h34m41s613_adj_text.jpg) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/vlcsnap-2015-10-12-08h34m41s613_adj_text.jpg)  (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/small.php?size=300&file=vlcsnap-2015-10-12-08h33m41s973_adj_text.jpg) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/vlcsnap-2015-10-12-08h33m41s973_adj_text.jpg)  (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/small.php?size=300&file=vlcsnap-2015-10-12-08h35m20s063.png) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/vlcsnap-2015-10-12-08h35m20s063.png)

National Geographic are doing a thing about visions of hell, I learned earlier today - ancient, medieval and not modern but a bit more up to date.  Dr Larringron is supposed to be contributing to the medieval bit on Wednesday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 12 October, 2015, 08:18:32 pm
Quote from: TimO on 12 October, 2015, 07:41:14 am
I suspect it's not going to be something contemporary, because they seemed to be covering up the white parking lines with some grey material, roughly the colour of the tarmac.  I guess that also means it won't be set in the depths of history either, since tarmac is hardly going to be seen prior to relatively modern Edwardian times.

Maybe a British film company is being cheap and hoping a sufficiently Victorian-looking London street will pass for Boston or Washington DC, or Vancouver or somewhere?  After all, we all know that this can be done 100% convincingly if you have your characters arrive in a distinctive taxi driven by someone with an outrageous accent, and make sure that any regional fire hydrants, telephone boxes, etc. are out of shot...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 13 October, 2015, 07:35:18 am
Cold enough for me to dig the winter gloves out this morning. But what a fantastic ride in ; dark and starfilled, windless, and practically car-free on the rural legs.

And a revelation: putting new batteries in my lights makes them awesome. I can see where I'm going and make out the crud on the (crappy) road surface.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 13 October, 2015, 12:10:37 pm
Fist coimmute in over two weeks. The road bike felt very sketchy after a fortnight on a loaded tourer, and it was cold. I may even pump the tyres up on the winter commuter tonight if it's going to be clear again as I thought a few bits looked a touch too sparkly for my liking.

Great to be back out in glorious autumn sunshine again, and riding a lot quicker than while on tour :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 14 October, 2015, 11:54:10 am
For me personally in London this was my first REAL cold morning commute.. Brrrrrr.... I think I might wear some gloves from now on. Shorts are staying on though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 14 October, 2015, 09:48:38 pm
On the commute today: Me! 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ruthie on 14 October, 2015, 10:00:21 pm
Quote from: clarion on 14 October, 2015, 09:48:38 pm
On the commute today: Me!

Hurrah!!   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 14 October, 2015, 10:13:37 pm
Quote from: clarion on 14 October, 2015, 09:48:38 pm
On the commute today: Me!
Wayhay!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: red marley on 19 October, 2015, 08:54:02 am
This week I have been temporarily billeted just south of Battersea Park, a long way from my native Hackney. Today was my first commute in to central/east London, which I thought I'd do via Boris Bike via the delights of CS8. I've not ridden along a Cycle Superhighway at Commuter O'Clock before. Almost all Sport Billies with bright yellow Humps playing tour de commute. Rather depressing really. Navigation from Albert Bridge to Parliament Square, following the river was simple, and the CS8 sufficiently wide and continuous to be helpful (despite the efforts of tour de commuters doing their best to pass closely and swiftly). From Parliament Square northeastward along Embankment, horrible. Hopefully life will be better once the super-super highway is finished.

I'd like my commute to be a chilled affair. Unfortunately, to add to the stress, my Boris Bike journey this morning was 32 minutes long, incurring a £2 charge (would have been free if it was 29:59). Perhaps tomorrow I should start with a couple of laps of Battersea park so I'm not tempted to beat the 30 minutes.

But most worryingly of all, being far from Hackney, I think I'm the only beard in the village. Has SW London got some kind of sponsorship deal with Gillette?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 19 October, 2015, 09:40:56 am
Quote from: jo on 19 October, 2015, 08:54:02 am
But most worryingly of all, being far from Hackney, I think I'm the only beard in the village. Has SW London got some kind of sponsorship deal with Gillette?

Battersea is south of the river.  Beards are not practicable there because they get singed by the breath of the dragons.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 19 October, 2015, 01:36:58 pm
Danger Mouse!

A mouse ran across the road, escaping a splatting under my wheel by a whisker.

However, it completely failed to miss the kerb on the other side and bounced back before - I swear - shaking its head to re-orientate its brain and hopping up and away.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 19 October, 2015, 01:47:33 pm
I can think of nothing of sufficient interest on my commute to report recently.

This is a good thing! It means I'm just enjoying riding through silence in the dark.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 19 October, 2015, 09:29:26 pm
On the short steep uphill bit in the cemetery where the lime tree leaves make the road skiddy I saw a fat-bellied little muntjack (sp?), first time I've seen one that close in years.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JBB on 19 October, 2015, 11:33:51 pm
Fallow deer all over the place.  The rut has started.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 20 October, 2015, 09:21:11 am
Yep winter is here. I will need proper gloves in 2weeks, still ok with the mitts just about. I have tailored my route in though as my mate was knocked off last week, so I go up and over on the cycle route in Newport, and it is now dark.

I also had to shoe away some killer sea gulls in the middle of the road, as they were eating chips. They were bloody massive  :'(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 20 October, 2015, 09:25:48 am
Looks like thare was actually some rain overnight. Haven't seen that for a while. Quick ride in today, especially for the touring bike which is still in loaded touring configuration. Now to see if the cafatiere I was transporting has survived it's ride in the rack bag.
Title: Re: On the commute home last night
Post by: Paul on 20 October, 2015, 01:11:48 pm
I got to use the chain breaker on my cool tool for the second time in the last 20 years or so (while out - it's been used lots at home). And again, it was for someone else's benefit*. The plates of a link of this guys chain had come apart and he had just decided to walk the last 4 miles home when I arrived.

I removed the offending link, rejoined the chain and tailed him for a little to make sure it stayed together.

(*twice = sainthood, right? Will someone let the Pope know? I think it's bad form to nominate oneself.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 20 October, 2015, 01:23:45 pm
Your next of kin might have to do it for you. I'm not up to speed with this whole 'dying first' thing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 20 October, 2015, 01:58:21 pm
Don't you have to be dead first?

Could be a bit of a problem
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: closetleftie on 20 October, 2015, 03:20:34 pm
Quote from: Guy on 20 October, 2015, 01:58:21 pm
Don't you have to be dead first?

Could be a bit of a problemarranged.

FTFY. HTH.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 20 October, 2015, 06:32:02 pm
Quote from: Guy on 20 October, 2015, 01:58:21 pm
Don't you have to be dead first?

Really? What's the bleedin' point if you can't have 'Saint' added to your business card (or whatever the 21st C equivalent is) and swan around lording it over those less holy than one?

Quote from: closetleftie on 20 October, 2015, 03:20:34 pm
Quote from: Guy on 20 October, 2015, 01:58:21 pm
Don't you have to be dead first?

Could be a bit of a problemarranged.

FTFY. HTH.
Watch it. >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 20 October, 2015, 06:46:11 pm
Snuck in one of what may be my last daylight commutes home over Cold Fell this evening. Everything's going yellow brown up there for autumn, beautiful 8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ruthie on 20 October, 2015, 06:46:55 pm
How's them climbing legs mcshroom?  Still hangin' on?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 20 October, 2015, 06:48:54 pm
Went along Welsh Back today. I'd forgotten just how uncomfortable those cobbles can be. Then came back up Colston St, not realising it's completely blocked – you can't even walk past – outside the student flats that burned down.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 20 October, 2015, 06:50:46 pm
Quote from: Ruthie on 20 October, 2015, 06:46:55 pm
How's them climbing legs mcshroom?  Still hangin' on?

Set a few Strava PRs so not bad, though I did get passed at speed by someone half my weight while climbing Wath Brow. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Katie on 20 October, 2015, 11:12:31 pm
Teenagers on black bikes, unable to keep a straight line, wearing all black, silently riding down a completely unlit cycle path (thanks Sustrans, genius idea that) at 10pm in October, no lights or reflectors.

Luckily, whilst I couldn't tell what I was gaining on, I had noticed that there was something there because of the way my front and helmet lights bounced off their bodies being different to the hedges, and I slowed right down before I got to them. They got a sharp word or two before I pissed off into the darkness again (being careful to warn other cyclists I saw heading towards them from the opposite direction).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 20 October, 2015, 11:21:22 pm
Quote from: Katie on 20 October, 2015, 11:12:31 pm
Teenagers on black bikes, unable to keep a straight line, wearing all black, silently riding down a completely unlit cycle path (thanks Sustrans, genius idea that) at 10pm in October, no lights or reflectors.

On the plus side, at least they had chain lube!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Katie on 20 October, 2015, 11:28:52 pm
Quote from: Kim on 20 October, 2015, 11:21:22 pm
Quote from: Katie on 20 October, 2015, 11:12:31 pm
Teenagers on black bikes, unable to keep a straight line, wearing all black, silently riding down a completely unlit cycle path (thanks Sustrans, genius idea that) at 10pm in October, no lights or reflectors.

On the plus side, at least they had chain lube!

I think they had saddles too but I couldn't quite see that well.

Pretty sure they left their common sense at home though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 21 October, 2015, 07:47:20 am
Rain at last. The last time it rained was the day I ordered my new jacket - I've been waiting to try it out for ages.

Like all such things, it's 95% perfect ; keeps water out. But the 5% deficit odd in areas that will disproportionately irritate. The hood is almost but not quite big enough to keep the rain off specs and it lacks a wire to shape it. And it doesn't have a chin fastening or top popper so you can't keep the hood up while unzipping slightly for ventilation.

But it's waterproof and warmer than a cape as the cold weather approaches - and that's why I got it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 21 October, 2015, 08:31:47 am
Wet
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 21 October, 2015, 08:40:37 am
Warm. 14.0 on the garmin today, after a long period of 7's and 8's.  Needed to go back to a tee shirt. Failed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 21 October, 2015, 09:15:09 am
Warmer than expected and no rain (though there were puddles on the road). Thought I was flying, then turned for the site gate into a headwind and realised why I was moving so fast.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 21 October, 2015, 10:53:36 am
It was very warm here when I went out to lock my bike up about 11 o'clock. Felt like rain coming!

Quote from: Katie on 20 October, 2015, 11:28:52 pm
Quote from: Kim on 20 October, 2015, 11:21:22 pm
Quote from: Katie on 20 October, 2015, 11:12:31 pm
Teenagers on black bikes, unable to keep a straight line, wearing all black, silently riding down a completely unlit cycle path (thanks Sustrans, genius idea that) at 10pm in October, no lights or reflectors.

On the plus side, at least they had chain lube!

I think they had saddles too but I couldn't quite see that well.

Pretty sure they left their common sense at home though.
Well, they're teenagers, it would be almost worrying if they had adult-style common sense. Best to let it out in relatively harmless ways like this.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 21 October, 2015, 11:59:04 am
Wet and warm.  And rather slippery.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 21 October, 2015, 12:47:51 pm
And road scattered liberally with acorns and conkers of doom. Hard to discern in the darkness.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 21 October, 2015, 06:13:47 pm
Leaf induced wheel spin while honking up a hill on the way home. Not had that for a while. I'd prefer not to have it again for a while either.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 21 October, 2015, 07:27:33 pm
I stopped and paused a while on the return leg as I sometimes do. Old habits from when I would sit wraithed in smoke, enjoying a post-work ciggie and watching the fishing boats trawling. No cigarette this time (always miss that) but chatted to an old boy about Reynolds tubing, Brooks saddles, and bike touring.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 21 October, 2015, 11:19:36 pm
Nice run out to Knowle this evening along the canal, the Birmingham bit was ok surface wise but the Solihull bit was well muddy, and crappy. The Day one disk did ok though.

Rode back along the Solihull bypass just because I didn't fancy the mud in the late night dark.


D.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 22 October, 2015, 12:21:17 am
Well, that was weird - a police van just drove at me this evening.

It's a big road (Darlington Eastern Transport Corridor, DETC for short), I was bimbling along, with the police van coming the other way, and I spotted that it was indicating right, but there is nowhere for it to go, and I carried on, until the driver (I'm pretty sure it was just some nerk in the van, not an officer) spotted me pretty late on, and carried on the other way. So late on that he had to swerve quite sharply.

I had half thought that he was going to have words with me about ignoring the cycle path at the other side of the road, and I was preparing my response. But, what? There isn't a junction, there's nowhere to park without blocking the lane, and even if he hadn't spotted me in the twilight (a feat that allother drivers managed), he really should have spotted the bus behind me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 22 October, 2015, 12:33:56 am
Not nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 22 October, 2015, 09:43:55 am
There was a flatbed Transit parked on Ampthill Road yesterday afternoon. The driver was one of those idiots who look to see if there's anything coming, then walk out into the road anyway and stand by the driver's door (why do people do that?). I was alright. I'd clocked him walking round the back of his wagon and moved out even wider than usual to pass him. Just as I got level with him he opened the door  ::-). I gave him a loud "DICKHEAD" as I went past. The driver of the bus behind me stamped on his brakes and gave a mega-blast of his horn.

 It's dumb enough to see traffic coming and walk into the road anyway. It's a whole new level of twattery to open your door directly in front of an oncoming bus. Especially when you already saw it *before* you walked into the road. :facepalm:

Sheesh ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 22 October, 2015, 12:37:59 pm
Yesterday's commute was enlivened by a huge puddle and impromptu fountain at the side of the cycleway.  I emailed the water company on their "report a leak" page.  This morning's commute was enlivened by a huge swathe of mud originating from a muddy hole at the approximate location of the impromptu fountain.  Got an email from the water company thanking me for the report and confirming it was a burst pipe, now fixed. <smug feeling>.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 22 October, 2015, 07:34:42 pm
Work-bound
Nice planetary alignment.  Jupiter, Venus and Mars I think.  Stopped and looked back at it for a minute or two.
Nearly hit a dim barn owl sitting in the middle of the road. Possible it had stooped for prey, but it looked v. small so mebbe just a thicko juvenile.

Home-bound
V. dark, almost black, roe deer.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 22 October, 2015, 07:39:42 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 22 October, 2015, 12:37:59 pm
Yesterday's commute was enlivened by a huge puddle and impromptu fountain at the side of the cycleway.  I emailed the water company on their "report a leak" page.  This morning's commute was enlivened by a huge swathe of mud originating from a muddy hole at the approximate location of the impromptu fountain.  Got an email from the water company thanking me for the report and confirming it was a burst pipe, now fixed. <smug feeling>.

Was it like (https://farm1.staticflickr.com/723/22204282829_8048c3e3aa_b.jpg) (http://[url=https://flic.kr/p/zQ7KGz) (https://flic.kr/p/zQ7KGz)

Or like (https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5800/22401894891_187ef3b2b2_b.jpg) (http://[url=https://flic.kr/p/A8zyT6) (https://flic.kr/p/A8zyT6)

Belvedere, on my way to Whitstable a few years ago....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 22 October, 2015, 08:38:18 pm
We had one of those on Leytonstone high street back when I lived in That London.  Main difference being that the run-off wasn't doing such a good job of running off, and the presence of a digger and some guilty looking men in hi-vis...

By the time I returned from the horriblemarket some 40 minutes later the fountain was gone, an assortment of additional men in hi-vis had appeared, and everyone was wading about with a look of confusion.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 23 October, 2015, 12:51:46 pm
You'll notice in the second shot there's a Thames Water van parked up behind the yellow one.
Two men inside it guarding the water in case someone tries to make off with it. ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 26 October, 2015, 10:33:41 am
On the commute today I used a bike for the first time since the accident 5 months ago. It was great! As is the new Fratello disc- I wanted to go straight past work and keep on riding!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ruthie on 26 October, 2015, 10:35:59 am
Great news menthel  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 26 October, 2015, 10:38:39 am
Quote from: Ruthie on 26 October, 2015, 10:35:59 am
Great news menthel  :thumbsup:

Thanks! :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 26 October, 2015, 10:46:49 am
Indeed. Great news :thumbsup:

I rode the Raleigh for the first time in six months after putting away the shiny Merida for the winter. A solid front axle seems to have solved the brake judder, and the shifting was working nicely. Need to fit narrower tyres, the 28mm ones are a bit too close to the guards.

Who turned the wind on? It was like riding into a wind tunnel at times on the way to work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 26 October, 2015, 10:59:21 am
Agreed. That wind was a PITA. The upside of my coastal run is that it's flat. The downside is that wind is murderous.

Strange clicking noises irritated me all the way. Something to do with chains and gears, I think. Will add more oil this eve and hope that fixes it.

Realising this morning just how much I need this commute to keep me sane. I worked from home on Friday and lounged over the weekend and found myself feeling a bit glum and was puzzled why. But now, despite leaving the house at 0600 and facing the prospect of being chained to my desk for a week, I'm happy as a sandboy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 26 October, 2015, 11:04:49 am
I wish my coastal commute was flat. :P

We are heading into windy season. I usually have to do a few comutes a year on the mountian bike as I need the extra control/weight when the wind's howling off the Irish Sea. Just hoping it's less windy than the last couple winters. Three months of continual wind like those years really starts to sap my enthusiasm to get out.

Still, getting home should be quick :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 27 October, 2015, 06:58:46 am
October's Basingstoke - London - Basingstoke commute done yesterday.  Rode in thinking that this was the time of the year when that bloke "wot goes around and jacks up all the hills to make them steeper" had been out.  There was definitely a Battle of Jutland feeling "There's something wrong with the legs today".  Struggled in the office feeling like I was coming down with the lurgy. 

Then stepped across to Wrap-it-up for pre-ride burrito.  Set off steadily down the Embankment, ignoring all the impossibly thin racers on carbon frames.  The wind was forecast to be a little east of south and my route takes me a little south of west, so this ride could have gone one of two ways.  Fortunately my prayers were answered, and from pauper in the morning I went to prince, nay King of the Road, oh blessed tailwind!  I was home 29 minutes before pessimistic forecast to Mrs CET.

100 mile commute #10 done.  Two to go.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 27 October, 2015, 11:18:19 am
Quote from: menthel on 26 October, 2015, 10:33:41 am
On the commute today I used a bike for the first time since the accident 5 months ago. It was great! As is the new Fratello disc- I wanted to go straight past work and keep on riding!
Wonderful! Good you like the new bike too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 27 October, 2015, 11:32:41 am
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 27 October, 2015, 11:18:19 am
Quote from: menthel on 26 October, 2015, 10:33:41 am
On the commute today I used a bike for the first time since the accident 5 months ago. It was great! As is the new Fratello disc- I wanted to go straight past work and keep on riding!
Wonderful! Good you like the new bike too.

Thanks! The new bike is just lovely, it was all I could do to make sense prevail and not cycle in again this am- little steps and all that. I will do one more day this week and then see how it goes!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 27 October, 2015, 08:51:56 pm
If you are ever passing through Chesterfield, watch out for a blue van Reg: YP04WXE and avoid.

On my way home this evening I stopped at the entrance to a roundabout and waited, as usual, for a gap in the traffic to pull out into. This van then pulled up behind me and proceeded to deliberately nudge forward crunching my mudguard and hurling abusive signals to try to get me out of his way! It was all I could do to stay upright and out of the way of traffic on the roundabout.
I remonstrated with the driver who let loose an endless high volume torrent about push bikes not being allowed on the road, not paying tax or insurance and so on. I pulled out my phone and advised him I was calling the police whereupon he zoomed off quite dangerously despite being told he was leaving the scene of a road traffic collision.
I was quite shocked and gobsmacked - A passer by insisted on phoning the police.
Upshot was that they apparently knew of him - he has a history. He got the full nine degrees when they caught up with him; he also paid 20 quid to replace the broken mudguard...
He is now officially on the books as having caused a potentially dangerous incident which will significantly prejudice any future misdemeanors. It was a choice between this outcome and trying to go for a "driving without due care and attention" conviction which may have been tricky without a direct independent witness - the passerby only saw the tail end of the encounter (and of his van).
I only hope it has had some useful effect on the driver's outlook.

**sigh** Its just not been my year...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ruthie on 27 October, 2015, 08:59:15 pm
That's bloody horrible pdm.  He should lose his licence, just for his bullying, imo.  What a tosser.

Hope you're not too shaky x
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 27 October, 2015, 10:04:56 pm
What a twat. Glad you are not hurt. I hope you have a better ride tomorrow.

My commute involved a slow puncture, a broken pump and extended commutes either way due to fettling. Meant I missed out on a long ride tonight, though that did mean I stayed dry. Not sure if it's just bad luck or the Raleigh is sulking about being relegated to winter duties.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 27 October, 2015, 10:09:27 pm
Traffic in edinburgh was unreal today. Temporary lights on A8 and A70 cause near gridlock. Even closer into city was almost the worst I've had.
Different route in meant I made 2 mistakes, and shows me how much I rely on familiarity and not enough on vigilence. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Diver300 on 27 October, 2015, 10:14:18 pm
Quote from: Ruthie on 27 October, 2015, 08:59:15 pm
That's bloody horrible pdm.  He should lose his licence, just for his bullying, imo.
It should be a charge of assault.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 27 October, 2015, 10:42:33 pm
Quote from: Diver300 on 27 October, 2015, 10:14:18 pm
Quote from: Ruthie on 27 October, 2015, 08:59:15 pm
That's bloody horrible pdm.  He should lose his licence, just for his bullying, imo.
It should be a charge of assault.

+1  People like that are a danger to all on the road.  Suspect that cyclists are not the only subject of his rage.  Hope you get over the hassle soon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DDCyclist on 28 October, 2015, 07:24:43 am
Quote from: pdm on 27 October, 2015, 08:51:56 pm
If you are ever passing through Chesterfield, watch out for a blue van Reg: YP04WXE and avoid.

... Snip ...

Was it sign-written? It would be nice to know which company we might all want to avoid doing business with.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 28 October, 2015, 10:36:21 am
This was yesterday. A balmy morning which felt like Spain. I saw a dare devil cat sprint across the A48 & it made it!

The ride home was rather damper, but incident free and the new waterproof shorts (cut off rain traousers from Aldi) did the biz on my mid rift. Not that biz, it kept them dry.  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 28 October, 2015, 11:21:07 am
Last night riding round the canal to meet someone at the CBSO centre.

Theres a bit of canal towpath where they are working on the wall alongside the canal so the path is narrowed and then you have to go up a quite steep ramp to the next lock level, on top of not being able to get a run up someone had put a widget to stop you riding through one of those s bend jobs.

I was walking up the slope pushing the single speed trying to answer the phone from my contact who wondered where I was, I had already entered the s bend when a chap coming down the slope with his bike started at the other side and forced me out of the way pretty much but we bumped shoulders, the next thing I know he's trying to shoulder barge me, like properly hard. All I could think to say was "Don't be a child"

There I was thinking I might get mugged by a bunch of teenagers and what actually happens is some old git trys to barge me out of the way, the teenagers just ignored me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 28 October, 2015, 02:19:12 pm
Quote from: pdm on 27 October, 2015, 08:51:56 pm
If you are ever passing through Chesterfield, watch out for a blue van Reg: YP04WXE and avoid.

...
He is now officially on the books as having caused a potentially dangerous incident which will significantly prejudice any future misdemeanors. It was a choice between this outcome and trying to go for a "driving without due care and attention" conviction which may have been tricky without a direct independent witness - the passerby only saw the tail end of the encounter (and of his van).
I only hope it has had some useful effect on the driver's outlook.

**sigh** Its just not been my year...

Even if it could/should have been more, I think this is a brilliant result. Well done for being the better person, not losing your rag, having the presense of mind (and bothering) to report it and see it all through.

Let's hope this git does just enough to get the interest of the police again (without, obvs, actually hurting anyone).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 28 October, 2015, 07:12:15 pm
Bats.

For the rural leg of my commute (half of it) I was continually surrounded by flitting bats. Wasn't sure if there were simply bats everywhere or whether I was being pursued by an evil flock (? nightmare) of bats intent on draining my blood.

Had my front lights set on flash despite total darkness and a rural road and sort of hypnotised myself. Very weird and not recommended.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 28 October, 2015, 07:42:17 pm
Quote from: Pancho on 28 October, 2015, 07:12:15 pm
Bats.

For the rural leg of my commute (half of it) I was continually surrounded by flitting bats. Wasn't sure if there were simply bats everywhere or whether I was being pursued by an evil flock (? nightmare) of bats intent on draining my blood.

Had my front lights set on flash despite total darkness and a rural road and sort of hypnotised myself. Very weird and not recommended.

Agreed
I've never understood why some people set their lights to flash on rural roads.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 28 October, 2015, 08:41:27 pm
Well, I wouldn't usually but the clocks have gone back and I had to stop off somewhere en route. Basically it was much darker than planned. Of course, I should have stopped and turned them on but you know what it's like when stopping will break your flow and be generally too much bother.

If I'd had any further to go, I think I'd have hypnotised myself into unconsciousness or just totally tripped out. I'm (fairly) convinced the bats were real, though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 29 October, 2015, 11:04:27 pm
Lovely evening run. Getting colder which needed me to keep a decent effort going to keep warm enough, which felt magic. Still gridlocked at corstorphine even at 7pm.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 30 October, 2015, 02:02:17 pm
Quote from: Pancho on 28 October, 2015, 08:41:27 pm
I should have stopped and turned them on

 (http://www.curiousinkling.com/img/hst%20shirts/hunter-s-thompson/we-cant-stop-here-DESIGN.gif)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 30 October, 2015, 02:15:57 pm
Have ridden home through Burgess Park in the heart of Peckham very late in the evenings last year and had bats flying around me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 30 October, 2015, 03:46:46 pm
Quote from: sg37409 on 29 October, 2015, 11:04:27 pm
Still gridlocked at corstorphine even at 7pm.

You've mentioned that a couple of times - now I've googled, I know it's a place not an opiate based drug. It would be a slow commute off your tits on morphine, I imagine.

Anyway, my commute today was wet, wet, wet, And dark. And drug-free.

Was overtaken to A1, gold-star standard by an uber-truck this AM. Waited safely behind me for a long time before it was safe to pull full over the white line and be, well, perfect. The only intimidating bit was knowing it was behind and waiting - up hills the mega engine sounded changing gears sounded like a main battle tank.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 30 October, 2015, 08:21:33 pm
On holiday atm in Barcelona and the attitude to cyclists is unreal! Lots of cycling lanes and you can ride on pavements as well. An amazing lack of potholes too! I should live here!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cygnet on 31 October, 2015, 12:40:29 am
Reminded by the Idaho Stop thread

Pedestrians: approaching zebra crossing looking to cross
Me: braking for pedestrians
Oncoming driver ina car a long way off: Accelerating over the speed limit to try and get there before said pedestrians cross
Me: getting a nice wave of thanks from pedestrians
Oncoming driver ina car now very close: braking hard to overcome his ('twas a him) lack of observation to allow said pedestrians to complete their crossing, and glowering at cyclist (moi?) who 'forced him to stop by stopping for the pedestrians'
Pedestrians: walk across zebra crossing
Me: waving at irate time-compromised driver and not wanting to guess how much his BP is going to rise when he hits the traffic jam on the main road...

Rather be me  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 02 November, 2015, 06:53:30 pm
Had a meeting in Islington today, so trained it to Victoria with a view to catching a tube to Kings Cross. However, Victoria Underground was temporarily closed due to "a trespass  incident" so I grabbed a Boris Bike instead. Navigation by gut feeling plus limited local knowledge seemed to work.  For the return leg I found a different bike station and leapt aboard. More gut feeling and following of signs and I was soon playing fast and loose with the traffic round Aldwych. An Addison Lee cab nearly had me off, due to a combination of both of our poor road skills.  He waved an apology. I didn't think they did that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 02 November, 2015, 08:40:55 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 02 November, 2015, 06:53:30 pm
Had a meeting in Islington today, so trained it to Victoria with a view to catching a tube to Kings Cross. However, Victoria Underground was temporarily closed due to "a trespass  incident" so I grabbed a Boris Bike instead. Navigation by gut feeling plus limited local knowledge seemed to work.  For the return leg I found a different bike station and leapt aboard. More gut feeling and following of signs and I was soon playing fast and loose with the traffic round Aldwych. An Addison Lee cab nearly had me off, due to a combination of both of our poor road skills.  He waved an apology. I didn't think they did that.

You should report that to the Police, Tim, clearly the car had been nicked. :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 03 November, 2015, 06:15:02 pm
Cycling home tonight I was making my way round a long cut in Selly Oak being followed by a car that didn't seem to want to overtake.  Fine.  But there was a flump flump flump noise coming from it.
Flat tyre, I assumed.  I wonder if they know?  At a T, she drew alongside.  I tried to tell her she had a flat.  The nearside tyres looked OK, so I indicated that she should wait where she was and scooted round the front of her and looked at the off side wheels.  They also looked fine.   ???  She wound down her window, looking somewhat trepidations and I appologised, explaining that I had thought she had had a flat.
At this point a bloke behind began to hoot manically (Held up for 15-20 seconds) and I'm afraid my response was to mouth a huge "Fuck Off" at him.
As this was happening the woman flumped off, so I never got to figure out what was making the noise.

Predictable punishment pass from matey.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 04 November, 2015, 08:13:59 am
Once again the Weather Demons show that when people talk of Britain having a "maritime climate" they mean it is under water.

Drip

Drip

Drip
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 04 November, 2015, 09:56:27 am
Riding home from the station last night on the Brompton, I was taking a bend on a cycle path when I encountered a pedestrian coming the other way so had to brake sharply. The ground was covered with soggy leaves. You can guess the rest...

Fortunately, I escaped with nothing more serious than a bruised hip and a slight loss of dignity. I wasn't going fast but the ground was evidently more slippery than I realised, so it didn't take much braking to lose all traction in the front wheel.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 04 November, 2015, 11:42:35 am
Quote from: Pancho on 30 October, 2015, 03:46:46 pm
Quote from: sg37409 on 29 October, 2015, 11:04:27 pm
Still gridlocked at corstorphine even at 7pm.

You've mentioned that a couple of times - now I've googled, I know it's a place not an opiate based drug. It would be a slow commute off your tits on morphine, I imagine.

Anyway, my commute today was wet, wet, wet, And dark. And drug-free.

Theres still roadworks on the opium road.  Very lengthy delays, and a very long stretch of coned off single carriageway.  A bus stops, we all wait on the bus.  So far, cars have been nice and patient behind me, which is notable as they often have waited *ages* to get moving.

Anyway, my commute today was wet, wet, wet, And dark. And drug-free.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 04 November, 2015, 12:22:13 pm
Last night's ride was a bit crap through and through.

Mizzle in the air, clinging to my glasses. Drivers driving as if they were getting wet inside their warm, dry vehicles. To top the whole thing off, two, yes two, fellow cyclists crashed into me. >:(

Idiot number one, a MAMIL who could afford to dress from head to toe in Rapha and ride a soot-bike, but whose budget couldn't stretch beyond a little blinkenlight. I would have been hovering around the 18mph mark as he came past me so close that his arm knocked my mirror >:( He most politely informed me that I was a silly cunt. 

Idiot number two was at least apologetic and bleeding after discovering that a fixie with no front brake can't stop as fast as as bicycle with two brakes and a rider determined not to go under the wheels of a randomly u-turning minicab. He bailed out to the nearside, clipping my shoulder and the kerb took out his wheels. I was nearly stopped when he hit me, but caught my balls on the nose of the saddle in my efforts to remain upright, so we both ended up having a bit of a rest and recuperate on the pavement before continuing our journeys.

Motons can harp on about ninja cyclists all they like, but it's really about looking properly. The guy behind the wheel of that taxi managed to miss (or simply DGAF about) 2 cyclists, both wearing hiviz tops, me with 2x Exposure Flash and a Joystick pumping out the lumens, and Mr Fixie-Crashy with some sort of very bright Cateye and a headtorch.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Katie on 05 November, 2015, 10:24:53 am
On my commute this morning I saw a TfGM traffic sign with the words:

"Cyclists
Night and day
Light your way"

…is it just me, or is that going to cause more problems than good? I already get yelled at by drivers for not wearing hi-vis/using lights in DAYLIGHT, as if TfGM needs to add fuel to that fire?

It's not as if lights would be even effective during the daytime, it's just a waste of energy used to charge the batteries of my lights, surely?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 05 November, 2015, 10:43:14 am
Quote from: Katie on 05 November, 2015, 10:24:53 am
On my commute this morning I saw a TfGM traffic sign with the words:

"Cyclists
Night and day
Light your way"

…is it just me, or is that going to cause more problems than good? I already get yelled at by drivers for not wearing hi-vis/using lights in DAYLIGHT, as if TfGM needs to add fuel to that fire?

It's not as if lights would be even effective during the daytime, it's just a waste of energy used to charge the batteries of my lights, surely?
You've seen this thread then?
https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=94064.msg1940815;boardseen#new
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Katie on 05 November, 2015, 11:01:33 am
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 05 November, 2015, 10:43:14 am
Quote from: Katie on 05 November, 2015, 10:24:53 am
On my commute this morning I saw a TfGM traffic sign with the words:

"Cyclists
Night and day
Light your way"

…is it just me, or is that going to cause more problems than good? I already get yelled at by drivers for not wearing hi-vis/using lights in DAYLIGHT, as if TfGM needs to add fuel to that fire?

It's not as if lights would be even effective during the daytime, it's just a waste of energy used to charge the batteries of my lights, surely?
You've seen this thread then?
https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=94064.msg1940815;boardseen#new

Hadn't, actually, but I reckon Kim just about sums this one up for me…

Quote from: Kim on 04 November, 2015, 11:24:47 pm
Quote from: sojournermike on 04 November, 2015, 11:06:48 pm
Sometimes, if a moron runs you down you won't be able to say anything afterwards I'm afraid.

You're right.  Best not to go out without wearing a car.

No objections to instructions to use a light at night. None at all. In fact, I often remind cyclists I see without lights that they really ought to have them. But lights in daytime? If you can't haven't noticed me in non-foggy daytime, then maybe you shouldn't be behind the wheel of a car.

"Cyclists should wear hi-vis/use lights even in daytime" is just victim-blaming. "People should look where they're going" is far more appropriate (and that at least includes cyclist error as well, when applicable.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 05 November, 2015, 11:40:53 am
Wearing hi viz and having lights on still won't prevent the dozy people looking at their phones whilst driving hitting you. As Katie says, if you can't see a cyclist in daytime, get off your phone and go to specsavers.

That reminds me...  A dozy driver went through a red light on Old Kent Road this morning and missing a fair few children already crossing. I REALLY wish my camera was working at that point.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 05 November, 2015, 11:50:36 am
Given that every vehicle now seems to care so much for my cycling wellbeing, I've made a special more accurate version of the now near ubiquitous sticker.

(http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn190/ianp_photo/Untitled.001.png)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Katie on 05 November, 2015, 12:05:41 pm
Quote from: ian on 05 November, 2015, 11:50:36 am
Given that every vehicle now seems to care so much for my cycling wellbeing, I've made a special more accurate version of the now near ubiquitous sticker.

(http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn190/ianp_photo/Untitled.001.png)
Brilliant.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 05 November, 2015, 12:14:20 pm
Reminds me of some sort of car alarm there is/used to be, which would activate a recorded voice if you came within a certain radius of the car but without touching it: Step away from this vehicle!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 05 November, 2015, 01:55:27 pm
Being lit up with a flashy helmet light, flashy handlebar light, static handlebar light, backed up by a high vis jacket and lots of bits of bits of offcut traffic car reflective tape only prevented an accident last night because the operator of the cycle involved (yours truly) had spidey sense switched on and suspected that the 4X4 approaching the roundabout at speed from my cyclists left wasn't going to stop. I was right. Good job I stopped in the middle of the roundabout. Gave me enough times to fill my lungs and launch into Regimental Sergeant Major mode.

Tosser  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Diver300 on 05 November, 2015, 07:42:17 pm
Quote from: Diver300 on 12 August, 2015, 06:49:53 pm
24 miles.
1 hour 15 minutes.
In a car.
I don't enjoy the commute.
1 hour 20 minutes tonight.
A smidgeon under 2 and half hours driving getting to work and back, averaging 19.3 mph.
I'm one of the few who liftshare.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 05 November, 2015, 08:30:36 pm
Caught up with a youngster a couple of miles east of Ciren on the A417* home-bound. Quarter past four o'clock, drizzling and quite definitely getting dark.  Magic hat? Check.  Lights?  Ha ha hah. Completely invisible from not many tens of yards. Oh dearie, dearie, dearie me.



*Busy, busy, busy at the time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cygnet on 05 November, 2015, 11:05:22 pm
Waiting at a RH filter set of lights, the driver on my left waiting to go straight on really did not want to get lost.
Satnav 1 integrated in to the dashboard forward of the steering wheel.
Satnav 2 in the 'central pillar' ( I think - the near vertical bit in front of the gear lever where radios used to be)
Satnav 3 planted atop the dash on the RHS sort of where the windscreen edge meets the front door
Satnav 4! - a second removable device on the dash forward and left of the driver below the rear view mirror.

All devices were lit up and appeared operational. Unfortunately the lights changed before I could get a photo.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 05 November, 2015, 11:11:29 pm
Taxi?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cygnet on 05 November, 2015, 11:28:02 pm
I don't think so - it was the wrong 'shape'
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 05 November, 2015, 11:38:00 pm
Quote from: ian on 05 November, 2015, 11:50:36 am
Given that every vehicle now seems to care so much for my cycling wellbeing, I've made a special more accurate version of the now near ubiquitous sticker.

(http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn190/ianp_photo/Untitled.001.png)
Bravo! Ian, if you pop your socks off and nip round to LFGSS there's a place for that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 06 November, 2015, 01:32:53 pm
Last night I had an strange ride home. There was a smattering of rain in the air, so I deployed the RainLegs but didn't bother using my waterproof and just relied on the water-resistant Gore softshell jacket. For once, I got my clothing matched precisely to the weather conditions!

The stiff headwind meant that for almost the whole ride I was slogging into the wind, my legs weren't overly impressed by that. Additionally, the extra exertion left me feeling stressed about wet road furniture. In a couple of places I took a slower approach, staying out of the way rather than my normal approach of strong primary and gunning it. Seemed to work fine.

The only downer was a bloody cabbie who, frustrated at not being able to pass me in a particularly narrow stretch of bus lane, decided instead to see how close he could get to my rear wheel. He was so close that I didn't want to slow down. When I stopped by the station, he was stuck in the queue and there is a chance that whilst I was fumbling with some kit, my Joystick got switched onto full burn and pointed at his face. Careless of me indeed. The thought of how close he followed has given me an adrenaline dose almost 24hrs later as I write this.

This morning's ride was very pleasant, definitely a smidge of tailwind easing things along and a very well driven van, whose driver patiently trailed behind me until it was properly safe to overtake.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 06 November, 2015, 01:38:06 pm
Quote from: Jacomus on 06 November, 2015, 01:32:53 pm
....and a very well driven van, whose driver patiently trailed behind me until it was properly safe to overtake.

Unlike the one I encountered this morning. I am on the major road, stationary, waiting to turn right. Said van is in second place in the minor road, also waiting to turn right. Approaching car is indicating to turn left into the minor road. Van beeps the car in pole to take the gap provided by the turning car- through the patiently waiting cyclist ::-) Next gap appears and I then have the opportunity to move off. Van again beeps the car to get a move on........
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 06 November, 2015, 01:43:53 pm
Oh and a rant-ette, if I may.

Fellow cyclists, you may recognise one of these signs...

(https://assets.digital.cabinet-office.gov.uk/media/55ba123bed915d155c000019/sign-giving-order-keep-left.jpg)

... Normally seen on bollards shielding a pedestrian refuge in the middle of the road. Just in case the arrow wasn't clear enough, it means "Keep left" and does not mean "Keep left unless you can't filter, in which case steam through on the right". Those repeated close calls with peds stepping out are entirely due to you being in the wrong place.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 06 November, 2015, 01:57:11 pm
Drivers don't seem to recognise them, seems a bit ambitious to expect cyclists to...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 06 November, 2015, 02:08:09 pm
Yes.  I always thought that sign meant "If there is a cyclist HERE, then you should drive on the wrong side of the refuge in order to pass them"

I've even been overtaken in that manner when driving a car myself!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 06 November, 2015, 02:20:03 pm
Come to south London and observe a speed limit!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 09 November, 2015, 09:05:43 am
Commute was relatively peaceful today.  Setting off 20 minutes earlier makes all the difference as I miss the school runs around Putney.  Magical dawn light through Shepperton and Lower Sunbury too.  Suspect it will be much tougher into the wind on the way back, tailwinds have a habit of making the world seem rosier.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 09 November, 2015, 09:15:25 am
Elephant and Castle (and Vauxhall for that matter) was a complete fucking mess this morning. Had I known, I'd have gone through the embankment. A competent female cyclist was only avoided being flattened by some sharp braking by the impatient WVD behind her!  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 09 November, 2015, 12:45:57 pm
Quote from: TigaSefi on 09 November, 2015, 09:15:25 am
Elephant and Castle (and Vauxhall for that matter) was a complete fucking mess this morning. Had I known, I'd have gone through the embankment. A competent female cyclist was only avoided being flattened by some sharp braking by the impatient WVD behind her!  ::-)

I used to go along the south bank but kept finding it clogged up around Vauxhall, so now use the Embankment instead.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 09 November, 2015, 12:50:42 pm
Quote from: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 09 November, 2015, 12:45:57 pm
Quote from: TigaSefi on 09 November, 2015, 09:15:25 am
Elephant and Castle (and Vauxhall for that matter) was a complete fucking mess this morning. Had I known, I'd have gone through the embankment. A competent female cyclist was only avoided being flattened by some sharp braking by the impatient WVD behind her!  ::-)

I used to go along the south bank but kept finding it clogged up around Vauxhall, so now use the Embankment instead.

Isn't that a mess as well with the ongoing cycle lane construction? I am curious to how that will work btw - it being used as a slow lane/fast lane at the moment. Won't be long till we find out. I think I'll zoom past the MI6 building along St Thomas' then onto IMAX and rejoin at Borough from now on. I just need to leave earlier.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 09 November, 2015, 01:35:18 pm
Quote from: Jacomus on 06 November, 2015, 01:43:53 pm
Oh and a rant-ette, if I may.

Fellow cyclists, you may recognise one of these signs...

(https://assets.digital.cabinet-office.gov.uk/media/55ba123bed915d155c000019/sign-giving-order-keep-left.jpg)

... Normally seen on bollards shielding a pedestrian refuge in the middle of the road. Just in case the arrow wasn't clear enough, it means "Keep left" and does not mean "Keep left unless you can't filter, in which case steam through on the right". Those repeated close calls with peds stepping out are entirely due to you being in the wrong place.

I have a few of these on my commute. As it's always jammed solid but clear in the opposite direction, I just ride on the right of these (keeping an eye out for the bus).

Does that make me a bad person?

In my defence, we don't have pedestrians in provincial suburbia you know. It's not London with all your fancy walking.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 09 November, 2015, 03:31:37 pm
Quote from: TigaSefi on 09 November, 2015, 12:50:42 pm
Quote from: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 09 November, 2015, 12:45:57 pm
Quote from: TigaSefi on 09 November, 2015, 09:15:25 am
Elephant and Castle (and Vauxhall for that matter) was a complete fucking mess this morning. Had I known, I'd have gone through the embankment. A competent female cyclist was only avoided being flattened by some sharp braking by the impatient WVD behind her!  ::-)

I used to go along the south bank but kept finding it clogged up around Vauxhall, so now use the Embankment instead.

Isn't that a mess as well with the ongoing cycle lane construction? I am curious to how that will work btw - it being used as a slow lane/fast lane at the moment. Won't be long till we find out. I think I'll zoom past the MI6 building along St Thomas' then onto IMAX and rejoin at Borough from now on. I just need to leave earlier.

I only have to get as far as Temple Gardens so I follow it to Parliament Square and then go down Whitehall.  When I get the train into the office (my commute is too far to do other than on an occasional basis when work isn't too heavy) and walk over Hungerford Bridge I look down and scratch my head - there doesn't appear to be a lot of space for bike traffic in both directions
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 09 November, 2015, 03:50:28 pm
Quote from: Jacomus on 06 November, 2015, 01:43:53 pm
Oh and a rant-ette, if I may.

Fellow cyclists, you may recognise one of these signs...

(https://assets.digital.cabinet-office.gov.uk/media/55ba123bed915d155c000019/sign-giving-order-keep-left.jpg)

... Normally seen on bollards shielding a pedestrian refuge in the middle of the road. Just in case the arrow wasn't clear enough, it means "Keep left" and does not mean "Keep left unless you can't filter, in which case steam through on the right". Those repeated close calls with peds stepping out are entirely due to you being in the wrong place.

OK, I confess. On my commute, especially if a little later than early, Cornhill is normally rammed, and there are uuuuuuge numbers of lemmings pedestrians. I take the view that proceeding in an orderly fashion on the right hand of the stationary traffic is to be preferred to being caught between vehicle and kerb. This also involves passing to the right of bollards, but in contrast to the rest of the road where I will try to assert precedence over pedestrians popping out, I always give precedence to pedestrians, stopping if required.

That's just what I did the other day, for a group of three, smiling and waving them across (having first checked for others behind me). Wheelchair bound lady smiled back, one of the others launched into a rant as to the fact I was on the wrong side of the road. I just smiled a little more.

This refers (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/place/The+Bridge/@51.5133397,-0.0869827,3a,87.4y,279.75h,91.6t/data=!3m7!1e1!3m5!1s_OH1PoZyb93Qu6Shw7w0nQ!2e0!6s%2F%2Fgeo3.ggpht.com%2Fcbk%3Fpanoid%3D_OH1PoZyb93Qu6Shw7w0nQ%26output%3Dthumbnail%26cb_client%3Dmaps_sv.tactile.gps%26thumb%3D2%26w%3D203%26h%3D100%26yaw%3D282.4754%26pitch%3D0!7i13312!8i6656!4m2!3m1!1s0x0000000000000000:0x40aadec3306bd2db!6m1!1e1)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 09 November, 2015, 04:02:23 pm
Back on the winter bike  :-\

The TCR can now be taken apart & given a bit of TLC  :-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 09 November, 2015, 08:44:54 pm
I confess that there's at least one refuge I scoot by on the wrong side of on Streatham High Road when it's snarled on my way home. It's either that or spend five minutes chewing on diesel fumes. It's not a vitamin I need. Pedestrians are visible so I've yet to kill any, and pretty much every motorcyclist and scooter does the same and far faster than I do.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 09 November, 2015, 10:54:35 pm
Basingstoke - London commute #11 completed, just December's to go.  Bit of a monster back into the wind tonight.  If I hadn't mounted the lights on the handlebars I would have chewed through my new Cinellis.  All good training though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 10 November, 2015, 08:15:04 am
Unusually, at that time of the morning, both Cautley and Narbonne Avenue (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.4555902,-0.1432067,17.96z)s were closed, with police on both.  The chap on Narbonne Avenue let me walk along the pavement.

It turns out (http://www.london-fire.gov.uk/LatestIncidentsContainer_clapham09112015.asp) that there was a fire on Clapham Common South Side, between those two roads.  When I went past just before 7am there were five appliances still there.  Apparently the alarm was raised at 10pm but wasn't under control for five hours because damage to the stairs made it difficult to gain access to the upper parts of the house.  It seems to be the building next door to the one that they have been refurbishing for quite a time, so presumably wasn't the not unusual case of builders managing to start it.

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/small.php?size=480&file=ClaphamCommonFire_20151011.jpg) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/ClaphamCommonFire_20151011.jpg)
(The clock time is very wrong there).

The report says that 10 appliances attended, which is a surprising number, considering that only 8 appliances attended the Cutty Sark in 2007, when it was on fire.  it must have been a quite significant fire.  I guess it could easily have moved onto the adjacent buildings if it hadn't been controlled.  There are at last six (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.4558977,-0.1445227,3a,75y,124.02h,82.65t/data=!3m7!1e1!3m5!1stPQdEugVKhpkx2BZBciyQg!2e0!6s%2F%2Fgeo3.ggpht.com%2Fcbk%3Fpanoid%3DtPQdEugVKhpkx2BZBciyQg%26output%3Dthumbnail%26cb_client%3Dmaps_sv.tactile.gps%26thumb%3D2%26w%3D203%26h%3D100%26yaw%3D2.1149797%26pitch%3D0!7i13312!8i6656), probably multi-occupancy buildings, in a row there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 10 November, 2015, 09:35:04 am
For various logistical[1] reasons I drove in yesterday. Aye, I missed some weather but it's a grim way of commuting. Glad to be back awheel today. Fresh air. Strong legs. Freedom.

[1] interview - thought it politic to wear a suit and non-spd shoes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 10 November, 2015, 09:52:43 am
Quote from: Pancho on 10 November, 2015, 09:35:04 am
Fresh air. Strong legs. Freedom.
You've found yourself a sig line, Pancho.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 10 November, 2015, 01:04:12 pm
Hmm, a lorry overtook me as the road curved right. A bit tight, but mostly fine. Then I glanced right and saw two-ish metres of hefty steel girder approaching where it overhung the back of the lorry

It was OK though, they'd wrapped a tatty bit of stripy tape around the end of the girder.  It's 'ealth n safety gorn mad, innit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 10 November, 2015, 07:34:29 pm
Came home late. Proper dark. Proper rain. Proper gale. Loved it.

Would have loved it more if I could have been bothered to stop and don waterproofs.

Just whacked the volume up (for company) and watched the rain scintillate in my headlights.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 10 November, 2015, 11:33:12 pm
I hit a guy.

Not hard/fast - we both left the scene the way we entered it, he walking, me cycling.

1. I was cycling on an against-the-flow cycle lane on an otherwise one-way street.

2. There was parked (what I now surmise to be) his delivery van on the (with motorised traffic) right hand side - and therefore half-way across the presumably-so-inconvenient-as-to-be-invisible cycle lane.

3. I was moving slowly (because his van was obscuring my view of the potentially oncoming traffic which I was required to address by virtue of 2).

4. As I drew level with the back end of his van, he popped out from behind it.

5. Carrying a box.

6. Looking the other way.

7. I grabbed 4 fingers of brake and (combined with 3) thusly just bumped him just a little bit.

8. He said "Fucking hell. Sorry mate". Then seemed to think better of it and started to look angry. Then saw the cycle lane (hitherto obscured because 2) and went back to a more "Sorry mate" face.

9. I gave him HARD STARE #1 (I only have the one, and it's probably not all that HARD).

10. I had a day at work and went home without further incident to my loved ones, which involved food and lego and preparations for someone's 9th birthday and such.

11. Hopefully, he did something equally nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 11 November, 2015, 09:23:08 am
This morning I decided that, November or not, it is too warm for longs, so wore shorts. It felt really good to have the wind in my hair(y knees).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 11 November, 2015, 11:30:09 am
Another collision this am: I cycled into another cyclist!
 
We were both cycling in the middle of an access/service road. We saw each other, then tried to avoid each other. I settled on going to my left, she to her right. We were both braking but still (albeit slowly) made contact.
 
With about 12 feet of space available to us.
 
It must have looked hilarious. We stopped upright with our front wheels next to each other, close enough to kiss (we didn’t). As I pulled away I said “Keep left, no?” and she replied “Stupid idiot!”
 
I assume she thinks I’m an idiot because:
 
•         I go around deliberately cycling into people, and/or
•         I have this crazy idea that we should keep to the left.
 
I keep chuckling about it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 11 November, 2015, 01:25:25 pm
Looking forward to tomorrow's incident Paulers!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 11 November, 2015, 09:21:46 pm
Hmm, another lorry steaming through central London, this time with a couple of meters of rebar jutting off the back. The usual tatty strip of stripy tape doing very little to distinguish it. Not attempting to remove my head this time, but I gave it a wide berth. Perfectly placed to messily decapitate any driver who crashed into the back. I guess that's one way to educate them about stopping distances.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Speshact on 11 November, 2015, 09:46:24 pm
A young woman rode off the pavement to join the CS7 cycle lane today, without the hint of a glance back or to her side to see if there was anyone there. She narrowly avoided hitting another woman cycling along. 'LOOK!' I shouted at her 'YOU'VE GOT TO LOOK BEFORE YOU JOIN THE ROAD' . 'Sorry' she said. Maybe she'll look tomorrow. Maybe.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wascally Weasel on 12 November, 2015, 01:34:24 pm
If you don't want me to teach your children exciting new words then don't overtake me at 30mph+ and then pull in to my braking distance on park roads that have a 20mph limit when I'm riding at 20mph.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 12 November, 2015, 03:19:03 pm
Richmond Park ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wascally Weasel on 12 November, 2015, 03:26:51 pm
No, Bushy Park.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: IanDG on 12 November, 2015, 03:54:39 pm
50mph gusts of wind encountered heading home for lunch/back to work. I've arranged a lift for this evening as it's getting worse  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 12 November, 2015, 04:58:21 pm
Quote from: Ham on 09 November, 2015, 03:50:28 pm
Quote from: Jacomus on 06 November, 2015, 01:43:53 pm
Oh and a rant-ette, if I may.

Fellow cyclists, you may recognise one of these signs...

(https://assets.digital.cabinet-office.gov.uk/media/55ba123bed915d155c000019/sign-giving-order-keep-left.jpg)

... Normally seen on bollards shielding a pedestrian refuge in the middle of the road. Just in case the arrow wasn't clear enough, it means "Keep left" and does not mean "Keep left unless you can't filter, in which case steam through on the right". Those repeated close calls with peds stepping out are entirely due to you being in the wrong place.

OK, I confess. On my commute, especially if a little later than early, Cornhill is normally rammed, and there are uuuuuuge numbers of lemmings pedestrians. I take the view that proceeding in an orderly fashion on the right hand of the stationary traffic is to be preferred to being caught between vehicle and kerb. This also involves passing to the right of bollards, but in contrast to the rest of the road where I will try to assert precedence over pedestrians popping out, I always give precedence to pedestrians, stopping if required.

That's just what I did the other day, for a group of three, smiling and waving them across (having first checked for others behind me). Wheelchair bound lady smiled back, one of the others launched into a rant as to the fact I was on the wrong side of the road. I just smiled a little more.

This refers (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/place/The+Bridge/@51.5133397,-0.0869827,3a,87.4y,279.75h,91.6t/data=!3m7!1e1!3m5!1s_OH1PoZyb93Qu6Shw7w0nQ!2e0!6s%2F%2Fgeo3.ggpht.com%2Fcbk%3Fpanoid%3D_OH1PoZyb93Qu6Shw7w0nQ%26output%3Dthumbnail%26cb_client%3Dmaps_sv.tactile.gps%26thumb%3D2%26w%3D203%26h%3D100%26yaw%3D282.4754%26pitch%3D0!7i13312!8i6656!4m2!3m1!1s0x0000000000000000:0x40aadec3306bd2db!6m1!1e1)

My preferred method is to turn myself into a pedestrian and push the bike around the wrong side. I too am resistant to the idea of getting caught between vehicle and kerb. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 12 November, 2015, 06:05:41 pm
Well after that ride home I think I can empathise with salmon.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 12 November, 2015, 06:07:00 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 12 November, 2015, 06:05:41 pm
Well after that ride home I think I can empathise with salmon.

POTD
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 13 November, 2015, 04:15:42 pm
Windy againsterly this morning. Pretty hard going and wild but not ridiculous. Seems to have scared the other commuters off though as my Dawes is the only bike in the shed :smug:

Judging by the whistling noises and swaying triffids outside, I think I'll be 'having a good day' on the way home ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 13 November, 2015, 09:53:37 pm
Ice cold rain. Lots of it. Bloody freezing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 13 November, 2015, 09:57:13 pm
Proper cold this evening.
Glad to have had the kit to cope with it.
Fingered gloves may've helped.
I survived.
Shins remain nekkid :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Katie on 14 November, 2015, 12:57:29 am
Started off excellently, with valve to my front wheel shearing off in my fingers as I was attaching pump.

45 minutes later I managed to get the tyre off, I think I need some practice with tyre levers.

10 minutes to fix and replace tyre/wheel.

Good news was I had planned on leaving an hour early to squeeze in an extra 25km, to make up for not riding on Tuesday/Wednesday this week.

Bad news is by the time I'd fixed the bike I was ten minutes late leaving just for normal commute, so I had to write off extra km.

Then it started chucking it down so I went to try and get on a train, had to wait 10 minutes for one that wasn't a Virgin mandatory-reservation one. Ended up being 20 minutes late for work and had to Swarfega my hands three times to get wheel gunk off.

But at least I'm not in Paris :/
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 16 November, 2015, 10:17:53 am
Insects kept trying to mate with my ears and the traffic was rubbish. Still, I am happy back on the bike and not on the train!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: aclucas on 17 November, 2015, 11:18:04 am
Unlurking to post... On Friday last week someone tried to door me.

https://youtu.be/5mPYxzsb-ec

I think he should have known better.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 17 November, 2015, 11:22:05 am
Back on the singlespeed today. It feels so much nippier than the tourer, especially now the wind has dropped.

Starting to think I need to gear it up again though as the ride was a bit spinny on 44x18
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 17 November, 2015, 01:55:58 pm
Visitation >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 17 November, 2015, 01:57:21 pm
Hmm.  Tonight's trip home looks like it's going to be grim.  :(
Exactly the wrong direction.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 17 November, 2015, 01:58:43 pm
Quote from: Basil on 17 November, 2015, 01:57:21 pm
Hmm.  Tonight's trip home looks like it's going to be grim.  :(

Lie back HTFU and think of Teethgrinder.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 17 November, 2015, 02:00:07 pm
After the quiet interlude this morning, it looks like normal Cumbrian November service has resumed outside. Maybe not the night to extend the commute home :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 17 November, 2015, 02:01:14 pm
Quote from: Kim on 17 November, 2015, 01:58:43 pm
Quote from: Basil on 17 November, 2015, 01:57:21 pm
Hmm.  Tonight's trip home looks like it's going to be grim.  :(

Lie back HTFU and think of Teethgrinder.

This might sound odd, but that is exactly what I do when I'm battling an againsterly.   I sort of pretend to myself that what I'm doing is helping Steve somehow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 17 November, 2015, 02:43:45 pm
Weird ride in this morning, I was travelling later than usual but experienced almost no traffic. Rather pleasant, if disconcerting!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 17 November, 2015, 05:55:03 pm
Bloody Hell!  That was almost scarey.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 17 November, 2015, 06:08:53 pm
Lost one of the covers on the wires out of my cyo. Shorting to standlight when riding bumpy unlit country lanes is definitely sub-optimal
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 17 November, 2015, 08:38:13 pm
This evening's ride home is probably best described as a clenchfest.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 17 November, 2015, 09:45:53 pm
Barney right behind me this afternoon.  it was exhilarating.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ian H on 17 November, 2015, 09:50:15 pm
Quote from: Nuncio on 17 November, 2015, 09:45:53 pm
Barney right behind me this afternoon.  it was exhilarating.

Did he put the wind up you?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 18 November, 2015, 06:57:06 am
The cycle into work was so much nice this morning than the one home last night!

Yesterday evening it was definitely a challenge finding the sweet spot in speed, where you were stable, but not going so fast that a gust of wind would sweep you into the traffic before you could compensate.

I think the forecast said it was still windy this morning, but if it was, it was unnoticeably so in comparison!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 18 November, 2015, 09:06:10 am
The roads were very sticky this morning.



i.e.  Lots of sticks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 18 November, 2015, 09:15:00 am
Wet and windy last night, same again this morn, but a tailwind and I was better dressed for it today, so it wasn't all that bad tbh.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 18 November, 2015, 09:36:19 am
You wouldn't think there's sufficient wind resistance in Heras fence to allow it to be blown over.
There isn't.
However, if you pile up enough leaves against it, it becomes like a sail.
100m or so of it brought down in one of the parks I ride through, by the Lea Bridge Road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Katie on 18 November, 2015, 09:56:38 am
Quote from: Nuncio on 17 November, 2015, 09:45:53 pm
Barney right behind me this afternoon.  it was exhilarating.

Barney in my face last night. Not exhilerating, just hard work  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 18 November, 2015, 10:37:40 am
Barney was very friendly to me last night. I did the last 1/2 mile at 22mph without bothering to turn the pedals! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 18 November, 2015, 11:24:56 am
I didn't enjoy last night's tussle with the wind very much!

Highlights include:

- The crosswind on London Bridge and the horrible effect that being overtaken by a double decker bus has. Travelling South on the bridge, the wind is funneled from the West and, like last night, can be strong enough that you have to lean into in. When a bus goes past, the sudden windblock means you *will* take a swerve towards the side of the bus until you can correct.

- An Audi driver testing the acceleration of his shiny white S5 as an informal convoy of 5 cyclists are being blown around 2/3rds of a lane.

- A van driver having a good chuckle as a fellow Bromptonaut and I utterly failed to achieve even walking pace against the sudden headwind setting off from a junction. He leaned out the window at the next set of lights to shout [Thick Scottish accent]"Fookin' windy, eh lads?! Ya made me think a was havin'a fookin' stroke back there, an' ya did"[/Thick Scottish accent]. Very pleasant to have both a van driver control his vehicle like a pro and to have a pleasant interaction too.

- Spinning out in 3rd gear (top) with a ferocious tailwind.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: greenmeansgo on 18 November, 2015, 03:11:41 pm
I wrote this a few weeks ago but have been busy, so never got round to posting.

Last week I had a really good cycle commuting week. Some of the highlights were:
(I'm putting together a replacement commuting bike, and at the time of writing thought it might have been the last week with the Langster so this was a particularly good week to have been the potential last week with my favourite bike!)

The following week I hit an invisible pothole, have been pulled out on lots, the light sequence hasn't been kind, the ride home has been in the dark (clocks gone back) with low-vis dogs and dog walkers on the bridleway making a nuisance of themselves, other cyclists with blindingly bright lights...

But it's all fine really. Much better than driving! New commuting bike on the horizon too
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 18 November, 2015, 09:21:55 pm
Windy, but not too bad. :thumbsup:

Had a brief, friendly chat with another cyclist at Bricklayers, then saw her again as I'd stopped at New Cross Gate. Made my day, that did :)

On a side note, ages ago, someone OTP put me onto yr.no as a weather service. I'd forgotten about it for a while, but have started checking it again. They are seriously bang on, and reading their prediction for the storm yesterday gave me the confidence to ride today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 19 November, 2015, 01:49:23 pm
Got the train in with the Brompton this morning. A fellow Brommie pilot had no fewer than six high intensity lights on the front and three on the back. And I mean frikkin' death lasers. And despite it being 8.30 am and not dark he turned them all on. You remember that scene in Raiders of the Lost Ark where they open the eponymous ark and the light pours out and vaporises all the Nazis? Pretty much the same effect on commuters. If you go to London Bridge, you will see their shadows burned onto the walls.

Any more lights and pilots might mistake him for an airport.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Speshact on 19 November, 2015, 01:53:34 pm
Tried out a new Vaude Valdipino cape - liking it a lot.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 19 November, 2015, 02:40:08 pm
I had a visitation this morning. Guess which tyre got it... I'll give you a clue, the bike is a Brompton...

Yup. Naturally it was the rear wheel.

It took me 40 minutes, yes - 40 minutes - to change the tube.  :o :( :-\

I have now changed the tube twice, so I'm hardly well practiced, but damn, 40 minutes seems pretty extreme.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Katie on 19 November, 2015, 04:07:51 pm
Left home five minutes after my kid brother who I've not ridden with for a long time, but used to always be quite proud of leaving me behind because he could go faster when we did. (Albeit waiting for me at junctions, to be fair.)

20 minutes later, called out "Alright slowcoach?" as I freewheeled past him.

 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 19 November, 2015, 08:25:40 pm
On the way home, I was wondering why I was finding it so bloody draining, both mentally and physically. Oh yeah... I hadn't eaten today :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 20 November, 2015, 05:53:27 pm
Car cut out from a junction on my left, I had the brakes covered anyway then a cyclist bombed down the slight downhill and shot out behind the car, right in front of me. "XXXXing hell!" I said, and the cyclist in a hi vis top and helmet said indignantly "Sorry, I SAID SORRY!"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 20 November, 2015, 06:20:33 pm
Put the longs under my hummvees for the first time this year.  T'was a good call

I have to wear the hummvees on top. I need the pockets.  Opening the vents fully saves the nethers from getting too warm.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 20 November, 2015, 07:03:58 pm
Cold!

My knees cringed at the sight of a few riders still with bare knees :o

A wonderfully event-free journey and quite a lot of tailwind to boot. There was one cabbie who decided we were going to play the "how close is it possible to get to the cyclist's rear wheel without actually hitting them" game, but thankfully it didn't last long.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 20 November, 2015, 07:07:33 pm
Winter Training started as of this evening.
Winter Training = riding faster in order to stay warm.
There's a sweet spot to be achieved, beyond which one is riding so fast that the wind chill factor created has an opposite and undesirable effect.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 20 November, 2015, 11:52:06 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 20 November, 2015, 05:53:27 pm
Car cut out from a junction on my left, I had the brakes covered anyway then a cyclist bombed down the slight downhill and shot out behind the car, right in front of me. "XXXXing hell!" I said, and the cyclist in a hi vis top and helmet said indignantly "Sorry, I SAID SORRY!"

I expect more from cyclists. I expect cyclists to feel as vulnerable (compared to a massively over-protected driver) as I do, and take more care. Sometimes they don't.

Unfortunately, you have to watch out for them too.

Hope you got home okay.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 21 November, 2015, 06:11:23 pm
Tell the truth it was something and nothing, I was doing about 8mph and had already slowed for the car. It was more the vehemence of the response, I did swear but in a resigned way and she went crazy ape offended and hurt.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 21 November, 2015, 06:15:22 pm
But then there is the risk that you could remain completely impassive and silent and it will be seen as a rebuke. Interesting how you can end up being the sworn enemy of someone who just nearly hurt you, I've had it from drivers as well:  "I SAID SORRY! WHAT'S WRONG WITH YOU, I APOLOGISED, I WILL FIGHT YOU"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 22 November, 2015, 08:23:09 am
A delayed report on Barney:

My return commute was in daylight so avoided one force of the Triumvirate of Doom - darkness. But the effects of the remaining two - v strong southwesterly and high tide - made one stretch a slow and wet experience. Unless it's a really bad combo, high tide usually just results in spray and splashes rather than solid water across the road. These can be avoided if you time your run between wave breaks. However, for that you need speed - and as the wind was straight on the nose, I was struggling to keep any forward motion so just had to take whatever Neptune chucked at me. I was soaked by the time I got across!

Which brings me to the topic of waterproofs :(

The cape was great - but even if worn with waterproof trousers was defeated by up-and-under sluices of water from passing cars in puddles. So I bought a waterproof jacket from dare2b. £30 down from £100. Looks great, fits well, lots of pockets. But not, it transpires, waterproof. Well, the pockets are inversely waterproof - they filled up with rain nicely enough - killing my phone and papier mache-ing my notebook and wallet.

:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 23 November, 2015, 12:26:42 pm
Cold and beautiful this morning. Thin grey mist across the marshes. Lights creating a glowing cone ahead of me and oncoming dark riders.

Cold hands. Cold feet. Cold ears.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 23 November, 2015, 06:11:35 pm
No other commute reports today? Or are your fingers still defrosting?

My Aldi winter gloves proved to be no worse than Altura's finest - ie cold fingers but not noticeably frost bitten.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 23 November, 2015, 06:21:16 pm
Quote from: Pancho on 23 November, 2015, 06:11:35 pm
My Aldi winter gloves proved to be no worse than Altura's finest - ie cold fingers but not noticeably frost bitten.

My Aldi winter gloves are fine until they get properly wet.  Good enough for short rides.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 23 November, 2015, 06:25:59 pm
Checked out the 'Extreme Weather Route' this morning.1  On the normal commuter, not the sno bike.  Just to see if there was anything I need to know.

1I can travel via A roads only from door to door if I need to.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: red marley on 23 November, 2015, 06:39:10 pm
My fingers have now defrosted, 11 hours after cycling in this morning. I now have the feeling back in them, just in time for the ride home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 24 November, 2015, 09:43:48 am
Don't know what the hell happened at Elephant and Castle today but it was bad enough to delay me by 10 WHOLE minutes trying to get around the stupid vehicle drivers trying to squeeze into whatever space they could find instead of keeping a nice straight line so we clever people could just cycle away quickly and efficiently.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 24 November, 2015, 11:07:44 am
Well, I got a horn sounded at me and furious wanker signs, aptly from the driver of a single occupied Wankpanzer as I sat stationary at a give way line waiting for the queue of vehicles (including the Wankpanzer) to clear on the main road so I could proceed. I wonder if I missed him trying to let me out? I wouldn't have gone anyway as he was three from the back of the queue which was caused by traffic lights at the entrance to a single lane tunnel under the rail line. I always wait tand tag on behind the last car as I don't want to encourage punishment passes for slowing them through the tunnel.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 24 November, 2015, 11:48:44 am
Last week someone overtook me on the wrong side of a traffic island. Fair play (see posts upthread!) - except it was a lorry and there was no traffic jam on my side.

Today a chav-car of some sort undertook me on a roundabout on which we were both turning right. There was even brief contact as I turned off - almost cutting across his bows. Woke me up! Nearly got squished there I think!

And rain! Most had fallen overnight though - so lots of deep bits invisible in the dark!

Great fun, all in all!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 24 November, 2015, 01:57:19 pm
Quote from: fuzzy (retd.) AAGE on 24 November, 2015, 11:07:44 am
...furious wanker signs...

Signs from a furious wanker?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 25 November, 2015, 10:27:08 am
Argh. I lost my Garmin Etrex on the way to work this morning.

I noticed it was missing after climbing one of the hills on the way in, but retracing my route back home and then going back over it again didn't manage to uncover it :(

It was a proper mount, so I mustn't have put it in properly. Can't understand how a) it fell off without me noticing though and b) I couldn't spot a bright orange GPS unit on a set of country lanes :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 25 November, 2015, 10:28:23 am
Quote from: mcshroom on 25 November, 2015, 10:27:08 am
Argh. I lost my Garmin Etrex on the way to work this morning.

I noticed it was missing after climbing one of the hills on the way in, but retracing my route back home and then going back over it again didn't manage to uncover it :(

It was a proper mount, so I mustn't have put it in properly. Can't understand how a) it fell off without me noticing though and b) I couldn't spot a bright orange GPS unit on a set of country lanes :(

That is a ballache! Are you sure you put it on this morning and not left it at home?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 25 November, 2015, 12:02:41 pm
I'm sure. I checked it a few hundred metres in to the ride and was annoyed I hadn't zeroed the timers so I know it was there.

It should have been on one of the three bumpy downhills I'd done, but I couldn't see it. I'm going for another look at lunch.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 25 November, 2015, 12:18:01 pm
Presumably not on a lanyard?  (Always use a lanyard.)

Maybe someone picked it up.  Did you put contact details on the boot screen?  (Always put contact details on the boot screen.)

I suppose a particularly dedicated Garmin-finder might set about tracking you down via the data in its memory.  But you're out of luck if it's been pinched by squirrels - they can't work the little joystick.


Data point:  eTrexen are surprisingly bouncy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 25 November, 2015, 12:22:45 pm
good luck on finding it!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tom_e on 25 November, 2015, 12:31:37 pm
Keep looking, and good luck.  Last time I lost a glove I think it took me either two or three commutes of looking out for it before I spotted it.

I've usually used a Lanyard, but thought I was being over-paranoid and was going to stop doing so.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DDCyclist on 25 November, 2015, 12:37:49 pm
Why doesn't someone write a plug-in or app that makes the device scream when it detects it's in freefall?

At this point I'd consider finding it, or getting it back via someone honest, an unexpected bonus. Might be worth checking with the local plods. Someone might hand it in.

I hope you get your unexpected bonus!

 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 25 November, 2015, 12:46:54 pm
Quote from: DDCyclist on 25 November, 2015, 12:37:49 pm
Why doesn't someone write a plug-in or app that makes the device scream when it detects it's in freefall?

The device has no capabilities for adding plug-ins or apps, it lacks an accelerometer so wouldn't be able to detect being dropped, and the beeper isn't likely to be loud enough to be heard by a rapidly receding cyclist.


Other than that, it's a brilliant idea that should work well on smartphones.   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 25 November, 2015, 01:01:01 pm
I hope you do find it, mcshroom.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 25 November, 2015, 01:41:58 pm
Retraced as much of my route as I could get away with at lunch but no joy.

Lanyard - not very easy to attach when the device is stem mounted.
Address -  I did have that, but lost it in a firmware upgrade a while ago and didn't put it back on :facepalm:

There's a chance it's very close to home, or that one of the local dog walkers (many of whom I know) will have picked it up and put it through my letter box, or that it's very conceiled in the leaf litter and I'll spot it later, but I think it's gone :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DDCyclist on 25 November, 2015, 01:51:23 pm
Quote from: Kim on 25 November, 2015, 12:46:54 pm
Quote from: DDCyclist on 25 November, 2015, 12:37:49 pm
Why doesn't someone write a plug-in or app that makes the device scream when it detects it's in freefall?

The device has no capabilities for adding plug-ins or apps, it lacks an accelerometer so wouldn't be able to detect being dropped, and the beeper isn't likely to be loud enough to be heard by a rapidly receding cyclist.


Other than that, it's a brilliant idea that should work well on smartphones.   :thumbsup:

I knew that. It's another good reason to continue using my smartphone as my GPS device. At least, when I drop it, I can get Mrs Cyclist (who's usually with me when I'm likely to do so) also has her phone with her, to call mine. The problem is that where I'm most likely to drop it there probably won't be a signal.

I also have a fluorescent lanyard that's always on the phone (and clipped somewhere else) when there's a realistic chance of loss.

Another idea would be a bluetooth button. If the phone gets too far away from the button the phone screams and the button alerts the owner. Anti-theft made easy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 25 November, 2015, 02:13:36 pm
Quote from: Kim on 23 November, 2015, 06:21:16 pm
Quote from: Pancho on 23 November, 2015, 06:11:35 pm
My Aldi winter gloves proved to be no worse than Altura's finest - ie cold fingers but not noticeably frost bitten.

My Aldi winter gloves are fine until they get properly wet.  Good enough for short rides.

Ditto my Decathlon full gloves.  My 'serious' waterproof gloves are decathlon silk liners, plus mitts, with black 'marigolds' over - glove cuffs tucked into jacket sleeve..
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 25 November, 2015, 03:09:23 pm
My serious gloves are Sealskinz with silk liners.  Like all gloves they get wet from the inside out, so waterproofing is largely academic, but this combination is comfortably warm in temperatures down to need-studded-tyres-and-lots-of-ventolin.

My main complaint about the Sealskinz is that they turn themselves inside out when you take them off.  The Aldi ones don't suffer this problem, which is a major bonus when cycling around town.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 25 November, 2015, 04:49:50 pm
Short "commute" to the dentist today. 2.5 hours in the chair. Ouch.

Rain showers but not far enough to fully tog up in bikie waterproofs - so I wore a long Driz-a-bone stockman's coat and wellies. It worked perfectly - thank goodness for dual function spd/civvy pedals.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 25 November, 2015, 06:43:31 pm
Quote from: DDCyclist on 25 November, 2015, 01:51:23 pm
Quote from: Kim on 25 November, 2015, 12:46:54 pm
Quote from: DDCyclist on 25 November, 2015, 12:37:49 pm
Why doesn't someone write a plug-in or app that makes the device scream when it detects it's in freefall?

The device has no capabilities for adding plug-ins or apps, it lacks an accelerometer so wouldn't be able to detect being dropped, and the beeper isn't likely to be loud enough to be heard by a rapidly receding cyclist.


Other than that, it's a brilliant idea that should work well on smartphones.   :thumbsup:

I knew that. It's another good reason to continue using my smartphone as my GPS device. At least, when I drop it, I can get Mrs Cyclist (who's usually with me when I'm likely to do so) also has her phone with her, to call mine. The problem is that where I'm most likely to drop it there probably won't be a signal.

I also have a fluorescent lanyard that's always on the phone (and clipped somewhere else) when there's a realistic chance of loss.

Another idea would be a bluetooth button. If the phone gets too far away from the button the phone screams and the button alerts the owner. Anti-theft made easy.

At nice as that sounds, the last time my etrex escaped from a bike I was doing just under 40mph. I doubt my smartphone would have lasted another year after impact at that speed. Other than a few scuffs, and having to relocate the joystick slightly to get the 'up' microswitch to line up, the etrex was fine.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DDCyclist on 25 November, 2015, 06:59:15 pm
I suspect it's a little like a pet cat that's been killed.

Better to know what's happened to it than never know and keep wondering if it's moved in with someone else ...

If I'd dropped my smartphone while out walking I would only have been moving at walking speed and, usually, on grass or some other soft surface. It would have been entertaining (if painful) to hear it scream as it fell over the cliffs in various parts of Devon. though.  ;D  :demon:

Almost makes it worth having a go at writing the app.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 25 November, 2015, 07:17:46 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 25 November, 2015, 06:43:31 pm
At nice as that sounds, the last time my etrex escaped from a bike I was doing just under 40mph. I doubt my smartphone would have lasted another year after impact at that speed. Other than a few scuffs, and having to relocate the joystick slightly to get the 'up' microswitch to line up, the etrex was fine.

Yeah, but most smartphone-droppings happen at walking pace or below, often onto carpet.  A bit of well-timed attention getting could stop you losing a perfectly good phone.


My eTrexes have only ever escaped from bikes during actual crashes, and been restrained the lanyard.  But there's always a first time for it to happen in motion due to a pothole (or on the Brompton, due to incompetent use of the bottle cage).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DDCyclist on 25 November, 2015, 07:38:57 pm
@mcshroom

Is it possible that the clips were becoming loose due to age or wear and tear?

If so it may have reached a timely end, rather than an untimely one.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ruthie on 25 November, 2015, 09:00:08 pm
Quote from: DDCyclist on 25 November, 2015, 07:38:57 pm
@mcshroom

Is it possible that the clips were becoming loose due to age or wear and tear?

If so it may have reached a timely end, rather than an untimely one.

S/he's right.  You need a New! Shiny! GPS to go on the New! Shiny! custom built Audax bike that you also Need.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DDCyclist on 25 November, 2015, 09:27:59 pm
Mrs C has been asking me what I want for Christmas for months now. She's worse than Donkey in the Shrek movies. "Are we there yet?"


(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 27 November, 2015, 09:18:09 am
Old Kent Road and the entire Elephant and Castle gyratory system this morning :  :o

Me on a bike circumnavigating even the roundabout by using Elephant Road and nipping over Old Kent Road :  8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 27 November, 2015, 09:21:32 am
The wind is back, and due to swing North just in time for me to head home :(

Need to work out what's scraping a bit on my singlespeed. It's a once/pedal revolution thing and only when putting some effort in. I'm guessing I've bent the chainguard a bit and it's catching the bash-guard on the crankset at a certain point in the revolution.

Also hoping that I've got the settings right now and today's ride in is classed as a cycle ride and not a run by my phone's Strava App. Missing my Etrex
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ruthie on 27 November, 2015, 09:22:20 am
I'm sure it misses you too Marcus.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 November, 2015, 04:15:29 pm
On the commute last night (albeit a train part of a mixed-mode journey).  I was sat in the inadequate bike storage space on a train from Victoria to Sutton.  Opposite me sat a young man with a mop of floppy hair looking a bit tired.  The retention strap being quite crappy, every time the train lurched (this was Southern; they do it all the time), the bike rolled back towards the chap's foot, so I tried to hold on to it and not disturb his rest, such as it was.

At Mitcham Junction, he got up, a bit unsteadily, and went to the toilet.  Great moaning sounds emanated as he summoned Huey.  This continued on through Hackbridge and Carshalton, till, approaching Sutton, I heard the driver's voice, and then a posh young lad saying 'I'm locked toilet'.

How glad I was to be getting off!  As I waited for my connecting train, I heard a conversation by walkie talkie to the effect that the doors had been forced open.  The passengers hoping to go on home to Cheam, Ewell & Epsom were to be sadly disappointed for a long while yet. :\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ruthie on 27 November, 2015, 04:18:15 pm
Quote from: clarion on 27 November, 2015, 04:15:29 pm
On the commute last night (albeit a train part of a mixed-mode journey).  I was sat in the inadequate bike storage space on a train from Victoria to Sutton.  Opposite me sat a young man with a mop of floppy hair looking a bit tired.  The retention strap being quite crappy, every time the train lurched (this was Southern; they do it all the time), the bike rolled back towards the chap's foot, so I tried to hold on to it and not disturb his rest, such as it was.

At Mitcham Junction, he got up, a bit unsteadily, and went to the toilet.  Great moaning sounds emanated as he summoned Huey.  This continued on through Hackbridge and Carshalton, till, approaching Sutton, I heard the driver's voice, and then a posh young lad saying 'I'm locked toilet'.

How glad I was to be getting off!  As I waited for my connecting train, I heard a conversation by walkie talkie to the effect that the doors had been forced open.  The passengers hoping to go on home to Cheam, Ewell & Epsom were to be sadly disappointed for a long while yet. :\

Let's hope he isn't Patient Zero of Teh End Times.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 November, 2015, 04:18:51 pm
Ha!  Could be...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 27 November, 2015, 05:18:01 pm
(Sings)

Oh dear!  What can the matter be?
Floppy-haired youth is locked in the lavatory...

(FX: Storms of recorded applause stolen from Benny Goodman concert)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Katie on 27 November, 2015, 07:53:26 pm
Rain. So much rain.

Very glad workplace will let me wear pyjamas.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 27 November, 2015, 08:00:36 pm
Not a bad journey tonight at all.

Also, spotted a yacfer passing Norwood Junction station at about 18:40.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 27 November, 2015, 09:07:51 pm
Rain, double headwind, cold - Yep, definitely heading for winter
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 29 November, 2015, 07:45:24 pm
Unless the din I can hear outside blows through then tomorrow will be fun. 😞

Hmm. Can we do Samsung smilies?  ☔⚡☁🚴

Also worried. I have about 50 commutes left.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 30 November, 2015, 09:16:06 am
Very cold rain. On mornings like this I have to repeat to myself not to even think about it and just get going.  Almost always the right decision for me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 30 November, 2015, 12:15:54 pm
Proved to be a benign ride in this morning - much to my surprise. Quite a lot of motor traffic as well - disturbing the peace of my rural leg and prompting me to play traffic jamming on the urban leg.

No rain.

I'll shoot off early today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mhP on 30 November, 2015, 03:35:31 pm
Quote from: sg37409 on 30 November, 2015, 09:16:06 am
Very cold rain. On mornings like this I have to repeat to myself not to even think about it and just get going.  Almost always the right decision for me.

Are you in Edinburgh, sg? I felt a gentle smatter around 9am but jeans were enough to keep me dry through the centre of town. Hellish slog up Regent Road and overtaken by a lady with a basket on her handlebars.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 30 November, 2015, 04:45:17 pm
Not so benign coming home. A grind into the wind for half the ride, followed by a brief salty soak (even though I'd missed high tide), and then a leg with the wind (and rain) behind me. All in all, a pretty good day's storm riding!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 30 November, 2015, 10:00:24 pm
Quote from: mhP on 30 November, 2015, 03:35:31 pm
Quote from: sg37409 on 30 November, 2015, 09:16:06 am
Very cold rain. On mornings like this I have to repeat to myself not to even think about it and just get going.  Almost always the right decision for me.

Are you in Edinburgh, sg? I felt a gentle smatter around 9am but jeans were enough to keep me dry through the centre of town. Hellish slog up Regent Road and overtaken by a lady with a basket on her handlebars.

Yep, I ride from ingliston park&ride to city center, Im usually changed and at my desk for 8.15. WFH tomorrow though. Parents evening (which is from 4pm these days)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 01 December, 2015, 01:37:37 pm
Quote from: Pancho on 30 November, 2015, 04:45:17 pm
Not so benign coming home. A grind into the wind for half the ride, followed by a brief salty soak (even though I'd missed high tide), and then a leg with the wind (and rain) behind me. All in all, a pretty good day's storm riding!

Pancho Storm Rider. There's a film character name to conjure with :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 01 December, 2015, 01:54:15 pm
First commute after 4weeks off. 20mph headwind all the way in, but I missed the rain. Incident free aswell.

I will be looking forward to a wind assisted ride home!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DDCyclist on 01 December, 2015, 01:56:51 pm
Quote from: Under the arches on 01 December, 2015, 01:54:15 pm
I will be looking forward to a wind assisted ride home!
Nah. It'll have swung round and reversed direction by the time you leave for home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 01 December, 2015, 03:41:35 pm
Ain't that the truth! Headwind this morning and would you believe it! The flag is flying Easterly meaning my westerly commute home is headwind-tastic!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 01 December, 2015, 03:44:33 pm
[Gloat] A light head wind in this morning, and it looks like a stiff tail wind home again [/gloat]
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 01 December, 2015, 05:08:24 pm
Not too much wind. No rain. Bit of spray on the coastal leg.

Bit boring really!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 01 December, 2015, 05:34:04 pm
Caught the train today.  No idea why.  It's not particularly wet and windy in Brum.  Well, only like normal winter depression stuff.
Now, I know that the best, nay, ONLY way to find your mojo is to get on your bike and hunt it down, but......
Maybe tomorrow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 01 December, 2015, 05:41:10 pm
I do that (very) occasionally, Basil. Don't worry, you'll be tormented by guilt which will see you back awheel PDQ whether you like the idea or not.

As for mojo - never had it, wouldn't know what one looks like. Every morning I set off, well, grimly and not really fancying riding a bloody bike to work. But by the time I get there, I'm pretty chipper.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 01 December, 2015, 06:10:02 pm
Quote from: Basil on 01 December, 2015, 05:34:04 pm
Caught the train today.  No idea why.  It's not particularly wet and windy in Brum.  Well, only like normal winter depression stuff.

Having just been out in it (my first proper bike ride, rather than just getting somewhere by bike, in ages), I can report that it's surprisingly warm, but a lot windier than it looks.  The silly gusts have died down, though, so it's much easier to keep a bike pointing in the right direction.

There was a big gap in the clouds just as the sun dropped below the horizon.  Weird to have it get brighter at sunset.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 01 December, 2015, 08:37:04 pm
Ugh.

Spent the last week cycling and a walking around the Canary Islands and had got used to splendidly generous overtakes. Coming back to London is a harsh shock. Aggressive, close overtakes, without exception all pointless. Some dickhead took exception my cycling in primary through the 'don't overtake cyclists' roadworks on Kennington Road, revving and beeping his horn and then the moment opportunity arrived, squeezing by and turning immediately hard left onto Windmill Row. Or possibly he was just trying to run me over. I had at that point assumed the worse so wasn't where he expected to me. Don't remember the car, but there were two policemen on the corner and they scribbled down his number plate as he sped off. I think a safe bet he has no insurance, licence etc. I hope a komodo dragon bites off his cock.

Coming home was a slog into the wind with a growing clanky headache that thudded at my temples and shouted GET THE TRAIN YOU IDIOT! But I'm an idiot, so I didn't.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 01 December, 2015, 08:55:58 pm
Quote from: Pancho on 01 December, 2015, 05:41:10 pm
As for mojo - never had it, wouldn't know what one looks like.


here y'go:
(https://connect.secure.media.ipcdigital.co.uk/111/0000117fa/32b6/mojo-sweets.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 02 December, 2015, 05:31:00 pm
Wore shorts this morning for my daily climb up the Slad Road Silk Route. it was disturbingly warm but also my winter longs really stink.

D.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 02 December, 2015, 05:35:30 pm
I discovered that my old Altura Waterproof trousers aren't

Also had to go in early today. It reminded me how just changing your commuting time by about an hour can make a massive difference to the amount of traffic on the road. I will be happy to go in at 8:30 tomorrow rather than 7:30 today. Today felt more like riding in a city than the country lanes I'm used to, and I almost got taken out on the roundabout as a driver was more interested in trying to push into a queue of cars than looking for the cyclists already travelling round in the other lane.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 02 December, 2015, 05:41:16 pm
"Worked" (didn't really) from home today so no commute report. Looked damp and boring out of the window, though.

I've had a bad back all day - which I attribute to not riding this morning. I'll have to plan a solution to that before unemployment bites in 2 months time. Crumbs - might even have to go for purposeless bike rides every day. That'll be a new thing for me, Mr Utility Rider.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 02 December, 2015, 05:43:47 pm
Train  again today.  I don't know what's happening to me.   :'(

I may have to start posting in the mojo thread if this continues much longer.   :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 02 December, 2015, 05:45:13 pm
Quote from: Pancho on 02 December, 2015, 05:41:16 pm
"Worked" (didn't really) from home today so no commute report. Looked damp and boring out of the window, though.

I've had a bad back all day - which I attribute to not riding this morning. I'll have to plan a solution to that before unemployment bites in 2 months time. Crumbs - might even have to go for purposeless bike rides every day. That'll be a new thing for me, Mr Utility Rider.
I'm still working on that concept, and it's tough. I'm significantly disinclined to go for a ride when it's damp. Such a contrast to my commuting days when I set off regardless. Not sure of the best strategy to overcome this.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 02 December, 2015, 05:57:11 pm
@hatler (OT) - how's it panning out for you? Not just cycling - but the whole unemployment thing? I'm a little bit scared shitless. I'm under no pressure (financial or spousal) to job hunt with any urgency and I don't really feel like it right now anyway. But it just feels epically wrong to not pitch up and work every day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 02 December, 2015, 09:17:42 pm
PM winging its way to you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 02 December, 2015, 09:32:33 pm
Quote from: hatler on 02 December, 2015, 05:45:13 pm
Quote from: Pancho on 02 December, 2015, 05:41:16 pm
"Worked" (didn't really) from home today so no commute report. Looked damp and boring out of the window, though.

I've had a bad back all day - which I attribute to not riding this morning. I'll have to plan a solution to that before unemployment bites in 2 months time. Crumbs - might even have to go for purposeless bike rides every day. That'll be a new thing for me, Mr Utility Rider.
I'm still working on that concept, and it's tough. I'm significantly disinclined to go for a ride when it's damp. Such a contrast to my commuting days when I set off regardless. Not sure of the best strategy to overcome this.

Make the effort to get out there.
I did. For way, way too long.
It's rewarding.
Don't beat yourself up when the weather is too inclement to make it attractive.
You'll have x-loads of opportunities to go out and ride
Your upper hand (as a non-commuter) is that you don't have to, when the weather is sh!te.
Those of us who commute, do not, as you know, enjoy that luxury.

FWIW During the time I wasn't working, I enjoyed, big time, the opportunities I had to ride.
Flip side is that I now enjoy having money in the bank, but I miss the camaraderie and company of the rides I previously enjoyed.

G'Luck
J

ETA : While I appreciate that your and my domestic circumstances are significantly different, don't underestimate the pick-up and buzz you can achieve from a day ride, on your own, when everything else is looking like $h!t.
It's a real tonic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 03 December, 2015, 02:26:33 pm
Rode the bike to work this morning.  :)

Not much else to report.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 03 December, 2015, 02:34:56 pm
Quote from: Basil on 03 December, 2015, 02:26:33 pm
Rode the bike to work this morning.  :)

Not much else to report.

Good man.

I (didn't) work from home again today. And I'll be driving in tomorrow as I have stuff to do in the afternoon. Which is a crap excuse, of course, as there's not much you *can't* do on a bike. Collecting a dining room table and/or wardrobe excepted, perhaps.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 03 December, 2015, 03:31:19 pm
Quote from: Pancho on 03 December, 2015, 02:34:56 pm
Which is a crap excuse, of course, as there's not much you *can't* do on a bike. Collecting a dining room table and/or wardrobe excepted, perhaps.

Even those may be doable, given a Carry Freedom and enough ratchet straps...

(Just back from delivering half a desk[1], a wobbly office chair, assorted electro-lqt[2] and a malingering Dyson to the grotto on Lifford Lane.  Santa gave me an awesome look of respect on account of the Dyson, which wouldn't quite fit the trailer box, so I'd strapped it over the top.)


[1] I attacked it with a circular saw and kept the good half.
[2] AKA 'WEEE'
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 03 December, 2015, 03:36:37 pm
Quote from: Basil on 02 December, 2015, 05:43:47 pm
Train  again today.  I don't know what's happening to me.   :'(

I may have to start posting in the mojo thread if this continues much longer.   :-\

dont feel alone, I am struggling to find the will to go out as well and am not sure why.  I think part of it has to do with the commute home, which feels quite hard at the moment.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 03 December, 2015, 04:51:19 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 02 December, 2015, 09:32:33 pm
Make the effort to get out there.
I did. For way, way too long.
It's rewarding.
Don't beat yourself up when the weather is too inclement to make it attractive.
You'll have x-loads of opportunities to go out and ride
Your upper hand (as a non-commuter) is that you don't have to, when the weather is sh!te.
Those of us who commute, do not, as you know, enjoy that luxury.

FWIW During the time I wasn't working, I enjoyed, big time, the opportunities I had to ride.
Flip side is that I now enjoy having money in the bank, but I miss the camaraderie and company of the rides I previously enjoyed.

G'Luck
J

ETA : While I appreciate that your and my domestic circumstances are significantly different, don't underestimate the pick-up and buzz you can achieve from a day ride, on your own, when everything else is looking like $h!t.
It's a real tonic.

Motivation is the real problem. I know it will be a buzz, but it's just the simple problem of getting one's arse in gear. I'm slowly getting more disciplined, but when one element of a round of differing routines is junked, it really knocks all the other routine components.

The answer is to build a new routine. And that takes motivation which I accept will not happen overnight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: caerau on 03 December, 2015, 10:18:10 pm
Gridlock - big time -in Cardiff tonight.  I even felt moved to knock on the window of a car in Sophia Gardens on the way home when they moved across a lane at the traffic lights in order to tell them there was no point as the traffic was fucked that way too - 'trust me'.  I was thanked.


It was caused by something important though.


http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-south-east-wales-34998886 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-south-east-wales-34998886)


The only problem I had on the way home was trying to contain my smugness as I sailed past it all. :-D *


*I'm still struggling with that one clearly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 04 December, 2015, 10:43:14 am
Good sunny cycle in, with a bit of a headwind.  Note to self.  Just ignore the dual use track and use the approach road instead, that way drivers who can't even be bothered to indicate as you both approach a junction don't matter as much.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 04 December, 2015, 11:19:06 am
Quote from: Caerau on 03 December, 2015, 10:18:10 pm
Gridlock - big time -in Cardiff tonight.  I even felt moved to knock on the window of a car in Sophia Gardens on the way home when they moved across a lane at the traffic lights in order to tell them there was no point as the traffic was fucked that way too - 'trust me'.  I was thanked.


It was caused by something important though.


http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-south-east-wales-34998886 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-south-east-wales-34998886)


The only problem I had on the way home was trying to contain my smugness as I sailed past it all. :-D *


*I'm still struggling with that one clearly.

That's hilarious !  The quotes are brilliant.

I'm on the Brompton today for a post work beer.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 04 December, 2015, 01:27:18 pm
Hit the tarmac this morning - ice on a corner  :(

Bit of road rash on my hip.

Bike's OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 04 December, 2015, 02:48:28 pm
Nae luck.
No ice for me, though was at risk of being swept away.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 04 December, 2015, 03:52:44 pm
Rubber side down, Pingu!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 04 December, 2015, 07:27:56 pm
Quote from: Pingu on 04 December, 2015, 01:27:18 pm
Hit the tarmac this morning - ice on a corner  :(

Bit of road rash on my hip.

Bike's OK.

Is your slidey-peng sig a self-portait then?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 04 December, 2015, 08:11:07 pm
Quote from: clarion on 04 December, 2015, 03:52:44 pm
Rubber side down, Pingu!

Ta Clarion, I shall bear that in mind  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 04 December, 2015, 08:11:39 pm
Quote from: Mr Larrington on 04 December, 2015, 07:27:56 pm
Quote from: Pingu on 04 December, 2015, 01:27:18 pm
Hit the tarmac this morning - ice on a corner  :(

Bit of road rash on my hip.

Bike's OK.

Is your slidey-peng sig a self-portait then?

Pretty much  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 04 December, 2015, 09:12:44 pm
I thought it was a cat toy...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 04 December, 2015, 11:06:34 pm
It is, but so is the pointer.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: falcon on 05 December, 2015, 11:04:35 am
Riding home along single track road,what I think was a buzzard sprung into the air from the grass verge no more than three feet away from me carrying  a  rabbit. It then dropped the rabbit narrowly  missing my handlebars and carried on its flight. Made my day. I have been  commuting 25 miles per day since July and it's things like that that make me forget about the current horrible weather and appreciate my new lifestyle. Previous job involved a daily three hour drive. Give me my bike any day!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 05 December, 2015, 06:29:56 pm
Sounds a good commute.
My journey back last night on the brompton was into a killer headwind, but almost worse was the really gusty nature of the wind in the city centre, loads of "wind shear".  Rain not too bad, it was light/steady.
Just dropped it into 2nd on my 3-sp for most of the trip and pedalled along.   It was fine.

Contrast 1 earlier day where I chickened out and got the tram due to the rain in the morning. In the evening, it was dry and I was a bit pissed off at not being on the bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 07 December, 2015, 01:31:28 pm
http://www.standard.co.uk/news/transport/new-road-layout-at-elephant-and-castle-causes-misery-for-commuters-a3131086.html

I went through my new route of cutting through Elephant Road behind the station and then using the lights to cross onto New Kent Road towards Tower Bridge so avoided this nightmare start...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 07 December, 2015, 02:53:49 pm
Is the new layout at Queen's Circle in Battersea finished? Queenstown Road has been a total disaster for months and I don't know if it's caused by roadworks or the new layout. I turn off at Ravenet Street and then cut through the park and cross the river at Albert Bridge, so never use the new junction.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 07 December, 2015, 03:08:54 pm
Quote from: alexb on 07 December, 2015, 02:53:49 pm
Is the new layout at Queen's Circle in Battersea finished? Queenstown Road has been a total disaster for months and I don't know if it's caused by roadworks or the new layout. I turn off at Ravenet Street and then cut through the park and cross the river at Albert Bridge, so never use the new junction.

Yes! It's been completed for a while now.... it's nice.... the lights works well if you are patient or you can just follow a car as usual. It's near where I live so I have no problems with it. Takes a lot of the dicey parts of navigating out of it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: trekker12 on 08 December, 2015, 09:06:58 am
First time on my bike in two weeks. It rained. A lot.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 08 December, 2015, 09:40:42 am
Rain right at the end, but hard enough to leave me soaked. Sun was still out all the time it was raining too ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 08 December, 2015, 05:52:48 pm
Quote from: TigaSefi on 07 December, 2015, 03:08:54 pm
Quote from: alexb on 07 December, 2015, 02:53:49 pm
Is the new layout at Queen's Circle in Battersea finished? Queenstown Road has been a total disaster for months and I don't know if it's caused by roadworks or the new layout. I turn off at Ravenet Street and then cut through the park and cross the river at Albert Bridge, so never use the new junction.

Yes! It's been completed for a while now.... it's nice.... the lights works well if you are patient or you can just follow a car as usual. It's near where I live so I have no problems with it. Takes a lot of the dicey parts of navigating out of it.

Wow! It's totally screwed Queenstown Road then. That used to be one of the places I could get a clear shot at spinning out top gear - no more!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jakob on 11 December, 2015, 03:34:14 am
Major lucky escape. One section of my commute has a segregated bike path and it's terrible for right hooks (We drive on the right side of the road here). It was dark and rainy, which just makes it worse and I had already eyed out the car for possible wanting to turn right....and he did..just before the intersection, he indicated and started turning. I was already covering my brake (fixed gear w/ front brake only), but when I pulled on the brake lever, the cable just went *PING* and absolutely nothing happened. No time to leg brake or shouting, I just braced for impact and tried to turn with the car...and then he/she saw me and stopped!!.

Rode up to the next light, stopped and then had a colleague (on a bike) run into the back of me as he thought I was going to jump the light, but I really didn't care!

I'm off to buy a lottery ticket now...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 11 December, 2015, 08:08:29 am
Quote from: Jakob on 11 December, 2015, 03:34:14 am
Major lucky escape. One section of my commute has a segregated bike path and it's terrible for right hooks (We drive on the right side of the road here). It was dark and rainy, which just makes it worse and I had already eyed out the car for possible wanting to turn right....and he did..just before the intersection, he indicated and started turning. I was already covering my brake (fixed gear w/ front brake only), but when I pulled on the brake lever, the cable just went *PING* and absolutely nothing happened. No time to leg brake or shouting, I just braced for impact and tried to turn with the car...and then he/she saw me and stopped!!.

Rode up to the next light, stopped and then had a colleague (on a bike) run into the back of me as he thought I was going to jump the light, but I really didn't care!

I'm off to buy a lottery ticket now...
:thumbsup:
Hope your win covers your cleaning bill
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 11 December, 2015, 09:07:34 am
1st commute this week. Caught in on-call hell and had to WFH. Weather was ok, it felt great to be at my desk after a blast of fresh air.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 11 December, 2015, 11:25:41 am
Bit of a moan about the elephant and castle new junction lay out = It's a fucking disaster in my opinion as both a cyclist and driver.
As a driver coming into London on Old Kent Road, you have this stupid system of waiting for the lights to cross onto the other side of a two way system. This just creates a back log of traffic as it's definitely not free flowing.
As a cyclist from old kent road on the way to home. I need to get to Kennington which with the old system, I just take a quick left to the 2nd roundabout except now I have to go ALL the round the roundabout with all the stuck cars  :facepalm: I know the cycle paths aren't open yet but they had better be good logical routes so i can by pass the roundabout and continue to take the first left instead.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 11 December, 2015, 06:08:28 pm
A girl used unnecessary harsh language on me. Oh my. It seems I had the temerity to slow her egress from London Bridge by not wanting to risk becoming the filling in a bus and lorry sandwich. She actually pushed by me muttering something unsuitably foul under her breath before squeezing through the gap in traffic to get a whole bus length further along. It was ok though, I counted no fewer than five lights attached to her bag, bike, and helmet, so she'll be indestructible. Utterly obsessed with getting ahead of stuff, yet not really making progress, and in the space of King William St managed to shoulder barge a bus and bounce off a van. She peeled off by the Bank of England, to bless the good people of Moorgate with her charms, and her ninja cycling skills.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jakob on 11 December, 2015, 08:41:59 pm
Quote from: Ham on 11 December, 2015, 08:08:29 am
Hope your win covers your cleaning bill

I'm seriously considering starting to wear a helmet, explicitly for the purpose of mounting a bright fuck-you light that I can flash into the windows of the cars on that section. To be fair, it's very badly designed with trees between the bike path and road, so I acknowledge that it can be hard to see cyclist and I do give them the benefit of doubt on the worst intersections, but most of it is just negligence.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 14 December, 2015, 09:44:46 am
On my commute not today, but Friday.
Only on Friday it didn't have a clamp on it.
What is weird is not so much the clamp, but the car has been properly cooked.
Where it is on my commute is a very quiet series of small, heavily parked roads, with barriers to prevent rat running - the sort of roads where you'd struggle to get a fire appliance round a corner.
The bizarre thing is that I first saw it on Friday morning, by the time I was going home on Friday night, somebody had cut away the front of the car and removed the engine and gearbox.
I cannot imagine that they'd be useful for anything.
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/709/23632951602_3d31cd566c_h.jpg) (http://[url=https://flic.kr/p/C1n49N) (https://flic.kr/p/C1n49N)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 14 December, 2015, 09:54:21 am
Shared a platform with Richard Bailey of HGV Aware last week, talking about cycling safety to commuting newbies and not-so newbies at our office.  Was very useful to hear about an HGV driver's perspective and what they can and cannot see.  I didn't make fundamental changes to the way I rode in this morning, but was definitely more HGV aware, particularly of the positioning of their mirrors and what they coudl see and not see.

Maybe that helped to have a slow but mild mannered commute today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 14 December, 2015, 10:59:27 am
Quote from: Jurek on 14 December, 2015, 09:44:46 am
I cannot imagine that they'd be useful for anything.
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/709/23632951602_3d31cd566c_h.jpg) (http://[url=https://flic.kr/p/C1n49N) (https://flic.kr/p/C1n49N)
Scrap value of moderately interesting alloys?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 15 December, 2015, 09:28:16 am
Hit a lady last night that walked through two large vehicles without peeking through. I had to filter on the outside as the buses were parked by the kerb. Luckily 10mph hit didn't do much damage to her. I politely told her next time to use the crossing just a bit further down from where she came from!! and were also red for traffic so i would have stopped  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 15 December, 2015, 03:44:19 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 14 December, 2015, 09:44:46 am
On my commute not today, but Friday.
Only on Friday it didn't have a clamp on it.
What is weird is not so much the clamp, but the car has been properly cooked.
Where it is on my commute is a very quiet series of small, heavily parked roads, with barriers to prevent rat running - the sort of roads where you'd struggle to get a fire appliance round a corner.
The bizarre thing is that I first saw it on Friday morning, by the time I was going home on Friday night, somebody had cut away the front of the car and removed the engine and gearbox.
I cannot imagine that they'd be useful for anything.
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/709/23632951602_3d31cd566c_h.jpg) (http://[url=https://flic.kr/p/C1n49N) (https://flic.kr/p/C1n49N)
It reminds me of the Polish* joke about imported cars.They turned out to be a VW, an Opel and a bus stop.

Probably the engine and gearbox would be useful for similar purposes. The car we had in Poland had its gearbox brought in separately so it could be classed as as non-running at the border: lower duties.

*Certainly told over at least half of Europe.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 15 December, 2015, 03:46:00 pm
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 15 December, 2015, 03:44:19 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 14 December, 2015, 09:44:46 am
On my commute not today, but Friday.
Only on Friday it didn't have a clamp on it.
What is weird is not so much the clamp, but the car has been properly cooked.
Where it is on my commute is a very quiet series of small, heavily parked roads, with barriers to prevent rat running - the sort of roads where you'd struggle to get a fire appliance round a corner.
The bizarre thing is that I first saw it on Friday morning, by the time I was going home on Friday night, somebody had cut away the front of the car and removed the engine and gearbox.
I cannot imagine that they'd be useful for anything.
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/709/23632951602_3d31cd566c_h.jpg) (http://[url=https://flic.kr/p/C1n49N) (https://flic.kr/p/C1n49N)
It reminds me of the Polish* joke about imported cars.They turned out to be a VW, an Opel and a bus stop.

Probably the engine and gearbox would be useful for similar purposes. The car we had in Poland had its gearbox brought in separately so it could be classed as as non-running at the border: lower duties. Clamping it (is that actually a clamp? what are all those bolt-like things?) does seem a bit pointless.

*Certainly told over at least half of Europe.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 16 December, 2015, 09:33:56 am
How is it so humid in December! Was sweating my bollocks off and only had a jacket jersey on!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 17 December, 2015, 08:38:21 am
Hey!  I was feeling really strong this morning!
Then, as I turned back on the little loop just before work, there was this strong headwind that just came out of nowhere.

 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 17 December, 2015, 09:10:17 am
Heatwave still present. Both jacket and jersey were half open!  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Katie on 17 December, 2015, 10:21:18 am
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/17/8242ac397b4dd2ae401e2d72dbf40e76.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 17 December, 2015, 10:29:24 am
 ;D
Did anyone comment?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Katie on 17 December, 2015, 10:52:54 am
Lots of people, I feel for the teachers who have to deal with the primary school kids I rode past…

Alas it was after the event I was doing it for or they might have seen about 20 of us…

https://www.facebook.com/events/422296324646114/
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Diver300 on 17 December, 2015, 06:39:53 pm
17 mph average tonight, in a car the whole way. Tomtom says it should be 37 mph

Another hour and half wasted in traffic.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 17 December, 2015, 07:15:35 pm
Quote from: TigaSefi on 17 December, 2015, 09:10:17 am
Heatwave still present. Both jacket and jersey were half open!  :o

I reverted to sandals today. I should have done it last week but, you know, December.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mhP on 17 December, 2015, 09:07:09 pm
What the hell happened to winter? Set off this morning with Sealskinz and Altura winter range on. Bad idea. No wonder I'm exhausted.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 18 December, 2015, 10:03:13 am
ISTR the Torygraph was predicting the best Christmas Walford's ever seen worst winter since 1962-63 a couple of months ago, because Siberia got nippy a couple of weeks early :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 18 December, 2015, 09:53:23 pm
Me.
My first bike commute to the "new" job. It's only taken me 2 months  :-[.
I've been driving in 2 days, taking the tram on 3. I do 2 "lates" so there's no traffic on the way home; when I have "earlys" I finish just before the main rush hour but I have to cross MCR and it sometimes takes over an hour in the car.
Friday is a late shift so I set off early and took the long way around the Fallowfield Loop and across the Yellow Brick Road to the Ashton Canal and then off near the National Cycling Centre in Middle Eastlands.
I was on the Rohloff bike 'cos that has mud-guards, dyno lights and a rack for my panniers; I need to take a lot of clothing for work itself and they still haven't sorted me out with a locker. That may have contributed (but only slightly) to a rear spoke breaking a couple of miles from home. I had time to go home, re-pack my stuff and get the car but I decided to carry on and risk it. I spent quite a lot of time out of the saddle.
As routes go, it's nice and traffic free but the "infrastructure" is hard to negotiate with panniers, there's a lot of glass and rubbish in places (the further east you go, the worse it gets) and there are some surfaces that were, obviously, "designed" by a non-cyclist. Ironically, the worst bits are the cobbled stretches near the NCC  :facepalm:. They're not what you want with a heavily laden bike in the wet. My broken spoke only compounded the misery.
Outwards, it was about 8 miles.

There is a room to store bikes at work but I'm slightly sceptical of my coworkers "integrity" so I took as much equipment off it as I could and put locks between both wheels and the frame. Shame there's nothing to physically attach the bike to.
I got changed in the disabled toilet. I need to take some Hilton Hotel slippers in for the next time (I have a legacy supply of them  ;D) 'cos the floors in the toilet and the "bike" room are minging. I took my panniers and their contents down to the despatch area when I started my shift.

I opted for the direct route through MCR centre on the way home. It was pretty quiet, despite all of MCR's hotels being full tonight (if the local news is to be believed). Presumably everyone was still partying. I suppose that they were since I finished early.
The return, with a slight detour thrown in, was about 7 miles.

Until I get the wheel fixed (a full rebuild I think since spokes break on a regular but not frequent basis) I'll be back to car/tram commuting. Unless I put a rack on the "light" Enigma and use that, ignoring the dragging brakes that neither I nor the LBS can sort out.
I know that I should. I'll consider it "training", whatever that is.

I also need to look at the route.
The Eastern end of the outward journey is too shitty (literally and figuratively) to be used over a prolonged period unless I get solid tyres and a baseball bat Uzi*.
I think Floop to Levenshulme or, even, Gorton and then road to Middle Eastlands might do it.

BTW, this isn't my 1st evah bike commute. I used to ride in at every opportunity in my last job, much to the disgust of my MD ("Why do we give you a company car ?").
He was a twat.
Strangely enough, that ride was also to east MCR; Failsworth in that case. It wasn't pleasant since I used to go up Oldham Road.
I should have recorded at least the 1st ride in on here, just for posterity.
I'll keep reporting on the current commute, like it or not.


* This is a joke if you're GCHQ/GMP. If you're a Manc scroat, it's not  ;).

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 18 December, 2015, 10:08:10 pm
Cool. Nice one. Stick at it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Katie on 18 December, 2015, 10:46:05 pm
Quote from: Andrew Br on 18 December, 2015, 09:53:23 pm
I think Floop to Levenshulme or, even, Gorton and then road to Middle Eastlands might do it.

I use the FLoop between Stockport Rd (Levy) and either Princess Rd or Athol Rd exit up towards Hulme for my commute several times a week in each direction (when actually cycling, which I haven't been in recent weeks because my lungs appear to have developed faults). I was using the Loop in the storms though, and the only downside to it was having to clean my bike every two days instead of every couple of weeks. So it's got a thumbs up from me even in inclement weather and gets points for not having irate drivers on it.

My brother commutes to and from Etihad by bike when he can be arsed. His route from Levy is something like this, if memory serves:

HTH :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 19 December, 2015, 10:37:34 am
Thanks for that Katie, I'll have a look at it and see how it pans out.
I can see lots of experimentation over the next few weeks.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 19 December, 2015, 11:41:17 am
Quote from: Andrew Br on 19 December, 2015, 10:37:34 am
Thanks for that Katie, I'll have a look at it and see how it pans out.
I can see lots of experimentation over the next few weeks.
Weeks?
FWIW I've been doing the same commute for just over 3 years, and I'm still finding new options to make it safer / more civilised.
G'luck with yours.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 December, 2015, 02:06:15 pm
Great news, Andrew Br!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 22 December, 2015, 08:54:52 am
Quote from: Basil on 17 December, 2015, 08:38:21 am
Hey!  I was feeling really strong this morning!
Then, as I turned back on the little loop just before work, there was this strong headwind that just came out of nowhere.

 ;D

This.  Again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 22 December, 2015, 01:20:31 pm
Had the mysterious sensation of experience both headwind and tailwind at the same time!!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 22 December, 2015, 07:41:26 pm
The grimaces on the faces of all the oncoming cyclists on this morning's commute foretold what sort of ride home I could look forward to expect this evening.
My expectations were met.
That was a noisy, energy-sapping battle which I (eventually) won  :thumbs:)

ETA: Why smileys no worky? Is it just me?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 22 December, 2015, 07:57:36 pm
Agree. It was a horrible ride home. Gusty cross-winds on unlit roads are my special favourite.  :sick:

PS. Jurek , it's
Code: [Select]
:thumbsup: (which my Mac autocorrect changed to :thumbs:)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 22 December, 2015, 09:19:49 pm
Quote from: SteveC on 22 December, 2015, 07:57:36 pm
Agree. It was a horrible ride home. Gusty cross-winds on unlit roads are my special favourite.  :sick:

PS. Jurek , it's
Code: [Select]
:thumbsup: (which my Mac autocorrect changed to :thumbs:)
Thanks SteveC.
I do spanners, (slowly, but) really well.
Binary - not so much.
I lack the interest.
This is where I need the help of those who excel in these areas.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 22 December, 2015, 09:40:07 pm
Raining on the way home, quite hard was pleased that washing my aldi softshell didn't harm it's ability to keep me mostly dry and warm.

Scalped my first roadie as well, climbing up the a46 from cheltenham as the ascent eases a bit I passed them without trying too much, hopefully this is a good sign and over the next weeks I'll start to pull back the other skinny buggers on the slad silk route.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 23 December, 2015, 09:13:18 am
Chickened out and caught the tram yesterday as it was pouring down. Totally dry in the evening so I wasn't very happy at tramming it back.  Today, much better morning. Strong tail wind, so I took a longer commute and stayed dry all the way. Might get wet on the way back, but its my last day at work for 5 days, I can put up with pretty much any weather with that incentive  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Katie on 28 December, 2015, 02:14:44 pm
Today I will be chickening out because I have a tattoo appointment tomorrow morning and current location thoughts = maybe upper arm, probably not a good mix for cycling.

Not least as I'm meant to be riding on the track on Wednesday lunchtime. Oops.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 29 December, 2015, 02:21:49 pm
Shaved my rather cosy thick beard and it is MUCH colder!! Time for that Audax buff for a few days then!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 03 January, 2016, 04:54:34 pm
"Once more unto the breach, dear friends, once more"

Pre-commute bike check complete.

- tyres slightly flat: corrected
- lights: batteries OK
- chain: oiled and slightly de-gunked
- waterproof jacket, trousers, gloves, hat, etc located from around the house.
- work stuff (pens, notes, shackles (aka ID badge)) similarly rounded up.

So all seems OK with the bike. Now to the rider:

- 1 month of sloth has surely reduced musculature :(
- 1 month of gluttony has (evidently) increased loading :(

Well, nothing I can do about that except ride. Now to the weather:

- OMG. :( :( :(

Good luck to all fellow road warriors tomorrow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 03 January, 2016, 07:25:15 pm
Good luck with that, Pancho, and everyone else, but I thought you had been freed from the commute?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 03 January, 2016, 07:50:34 pm
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 03 January, 2016, 07:25:15 pm
Good luck with that, Pancho, and everyone else, but I thought you had been freed from the commute?

I struck a deal - in return for being available for a few weeks, my exit will be handled in a financially-beneficial manner. They made it worth facing a few more winter commutes! However, it's two months absolute max (and not even every day) - and from then on, I'll be recreational riding only and will have to resign this thread :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 04 January, 2016, 07:20:23 am
That was fantastic! Felt back in my element (the element being, primarily, water). No sign of the wind I'd feared - just lots and lots and lots of vertical rain in the darkness. And equally lots and lots and lots of horizontal puddles across the road.

But an absolute joy to be back on the road. Almost makes up for me being in the office right now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 04 January, 2016, 09:19:56 am
I forgot to book the hire car for this week before christmas.  :-[

Therefore I had no choice but to combine bike and train to get to work this morning and this evening will be a toss up between the reverse journey or riding through.  :demon:

Boy has my fitness dropped off during the last 10 weeks without cycle commuting.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 04 January, 2016, 10:18:15 am
Back to it this morning and very nice it was too. No traffic, although I suspect tomorrow will fix that! Shame I have got so bloody fat...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moultonaught on 04 January, 2016, 10:22:15 am
My first cycle commute for far too long. Slow, steady, uneventful and most enjoyable....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 04 January, 2016, 05:25:13 pm
Nice ride home too via Richmond Park. Weather was nice and had to stop for some young bucks practising rutting on the road half way up Broomfield. Feels like the right start to the year!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 05 January, 2016, 08:06:28 am
This morning, a couple of foxes did their best to provide me with a "Oh no oh no oh no oh no ... were do I go ..." moment, but luckily I spotted them early and started braking, and the car behind me then scared them back onto Tooting Bec Common.

     YouTube video of a couple of foxes (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b3EXVk7dBfY)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 05 January, 2016, 09:17:52 am
First day back on the singlespeed and I really noticed how much fitness I've lost over a ride-free Christmas holiday. Just made it up the steep hill without walking/falling over.

Also the saddle felt too high. Have my legs managed to shrink in the last week and a half? ???

Realised on my way in I've just started my 7th year of cycle commuting. Seven years ago I was hauling a Rockrider 5.1 MTBSO over ice on semi slicks and walking up the hills. It's been quite a journey since then :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 05 January, 2016, 09:25:22 am
Nice ride in although I must remember to dress for the weather not the month. A good bit of company from a guy on a lovely gold/bronze (its dark, I'm colourblind) Merckx singlespeed, quite a tall gear though - he was out of the saddle for the best part of 2 miles on the flat.

Only slightly marred by a muppet in wankpanzer at the hospital entrance who thought the NHS are underworked so had two goes at keeping them busy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 05 January, 2016, 09:39:10 am
More traffic and two episodes of metal twatbox muppetry but actually a nice ride in! Feeling rather good at the moment.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 05 January, 2016, 11:22:00 am
Hit an average of 16.7mph today. Roads were nice and clear and the lights were incredibly favorable to me :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 05 January, 2016, 11:40:02 am
First time back on the bike before Christmas for my short commute but, I've said it before, and I'll say it again, just how much more the traffic swells, once the schools reopen. I'd say definitely at least by 50%. I believe the "After you old chap," have already been replaced with "Every man for himself" attitude we all know and love so well.

Having left my bike lock at home, I shall, at lunchtime, commute home then off in to town to pay the Access Bill. Oh joy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RichL on 05 January, 2016, 12:53:49 pm
Quote from: Moultonaught on 04 January, 2016, 10:22:15 am
My first cycle commute for far too long. Slow, steady, uneventful and most enjoyable....
Mine today... where did my legs go?!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 05 January, 2016, 01:54:10 pm
First commute to since Xmas. Legs felt ok,which wasn't too bad considering the extra weight I need to shift.  :o

It started raining as well,so I stopped in a bus shelter to cape up, because it was coming down quite heavy at one point, then carried on, 5minutes later it stopped  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Asterix, the former Gaul. on 05 January, 2016, 05:19:33 pm
Quote from: TimO on 05 January, 2016, 08:06:28 am
This morning, a couple of foxes did their best to provide me with a "Oh no oh no oh no oh no ... were do I go ..." moment, but luckily I spotted them early and started braking, and the car behind me then scared them back onto Tooting Bec Common.

     YouTube video of a couple of foxes (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b3EXVk7dBfY)

Ditto except mine were retrievers.  Their owner had cunningly hidden round the bend in the cycletrack then just as I rounded the corner started to launch the dogs' ball across the track in front of me.  Her timing was perfect and I caught one of the retrievers amidships.  By which point, luckily, I'd almost stopped so the animal barely noticed as it hurtled off to get the ball.  Better still I didn't fall into the mud.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 05 January, 2016, 07:30:11 pm
Was nice. Got to the park and it was closed to cars and therefore it was even more lovely. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 05 January, 2016, 07:37:21 pm
Quote from: Riggers on 05 January, 2016, 11:40:02 am
Having left my bike lock at home, I shall, at lunchtime, commute home then off in to town to pay the Access Bill. Oh joy.

It took a while for me to realise that the clauses in that sentence aren't related. You didn't need to pay an Access Bill as an alternative to using a lock. And neither did you need to pay an Access Bill to ride into town!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jsabine on 05 January, 2016, 07:43:09 pm
Quote from: Pancho on 05 January, 2016, 07:37:21 pm
Quote from: Riggers on 05 January, 2016, 11:40:02 am
Having left my bike lock at home, I shall, at lunchtime, commute home then off in to town to pay the Access Bill. Oh joy.

It took a while for me to realise that the clauses in that sentence aren't related. You didn't need to pay an Access Bill as an alternative to using a lock. And neither did you need to pay an Access Bill to ride into town!

They are related, surely? Payment of the Access bill - in town - is dependent on being able to leave the bicycle unattended (although this isn't stated): this relies on possession of a lock, which is in turn dependent on riding home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Bairn Again on 05 January, 2016, 09:52:46 pm
Just finished washing my kit after my wettest ride home from work I can remember in circa 18 yrs.  Cycle path all puddle and no path.  Just 5k but utterly soaked.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 05 January, 2016, 10:09:41 pm
Quote from: , on 05 January, 2016, 09:52:46 pm
...  Just 5k but utterly soaked.

In edinburgh ?
I must have been later than I thought: my ride from city centre to ingliston was dry. Thankfully, I'm on a new bike :-) (specialized sirrus carbon = comfy)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 06 January, 2016, 10:03:56 am
On the way home, I was getting my bike out of the bike shed with a flat.So a new tube was installed & held up all the way home! Cant be too bad only the second puncture in 18month!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moultonaught on 06 January, 2016, 10:58:40 am
My third commute of the week today. I usually work at home on Tuesdays but a broken laptop screen meant an extra day of cycle commuting fun yesterday. Really enjoyable but a bit of a shock to the system after an overly lethargic break!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 06 January, 2016, 11:07:49 am
Quote from: jsabine on 05 January, 2016, 07:43:09 pm
Quote from: Pancho on 05 January, 2016, 07:37:21 pm
Quote from: Riggers on 05 January, 2016, 11:40:02 am
Having left my bike lock at home, I shall, at lunchtime, commute home then off in to town to pay the Access Bill. Oh joy.

It took a while for me to realise that the clauses in that sentence aren't related. You didn't need to pay an Access Bill as an alternative to using a lock. And neither did you need to pay an Access Bill to ride into town!

They are related, surely? Payment of the Access bill - in town - is dependent on being able to leave the bicycle unattended (although this isn't stated): this relies on possession of a lock, which is in turn dependent on riding home.


Thank you JSabine. Quite right. For me to cycle in to town (to the bank) required the need of my lock, which I'd left at home. I do not use internet banking, preferring human contact. Panchers is being mischievous and, for that, I'm giving him a virtual Chinese burn!! Hope he's squirming!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 06 January, 2016, 01:05:31 pm
Tired legs this morning. Last night seemed to be a real struggle, there was no way I could hold on to the wheel of my commuting buddy and just put it down to being a bit fatigued, strava says I averaged 35kph over 2.5km, haven't got much more than that even when I'm rested, especially in the slow down / accelerate of the rush hour, but he just disappeared up the road, and he styles himself Kevin the Slow  ::-) He was generous enough to point out that while he's had nearly 6 weeks of R&R, I'd done 3 times his usual monthly mileage in that time. Still don't like getting dropped though  >:(

I wonder if I can find an excuse to leave early / stay late to prevent a repeat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 06 January, 2016, 02:15:13 pm
Tired legs on the way in this morning, to the point I almost toppled over at the top of the steep hill. Then got to work to find I had a meeting less than half a mile from my house, so turned round after half an hour and rode back again.

Now switched to a geared bike after lunch and will hopefully get some miles in this evening, but I'm really slow and weak compared to early December when my commuting got disrupted. Need to do some serious work on that :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 06 January, 2016, 02:39:56 pm
I'm desperately trying to get into the habit of 'commuting' when I now work from home. I'm aiming for being out of the door at 8.30 with the aim of two spins round Richmond Park every day, otherwise I'll never get back to being properly fit. So far (early days yet) I've managed three out of three. It's a whole different level of motivation required when you don't actually have to do it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 06 January, 2016, 03:11:32 pm
^^^^ this with thumb shifters on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 06 January, 2016, 05:38:55 pm
Brilliant ride home. Sunset over the sea. No rain. No wind. And I just seemed to be *fast* but without effort. Heavy concentration of motons in the town section meant for fun traffic-jamming which I sort of[1] enjoy.

Recovered from Chinese Burn (are we still allowed to say that?) and am weighing up whether to respond with a virtual nipple-tweak or a horse-bite.

[1] Though I do also worry. I can't resist it but I do wonder if I'm too old to risk any more bonnet sliding and tarmac scraping. But, when faced with long lines of stationary or near stationary cars, what are the alternatives? Sit and wait in line - no thanks. Become a pavement-jockey - no thanks. Or nip out and carve that fine line between slow traffic to your left and fast oncoming traffic to your right (with a bit of jinking back in when things speed up (or you notice a bus bearing down on you))?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 06 January, 2016, 06:25:13 pm
Definitely the latter. Life's too short not to.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 06 January, 2016, 07:08:33 pm
I'm a risk-averse filterer, and won't filter at all on a recumbent.  Waiting in line is fine if it's just a queue for a single cycle of the lights, which it usually is.  Otherwise, it's either go for the best looking gap, bail to the shared-use pavement, or get off and wheel the bike on the pavement past the obstruction before continuing on my merry way.  The latter is particularly satisfying when the obstruction is a large roundabout with too many cars on it.  "Look, I can get off and push and still get there faster."
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jsabine on 06 January, 2016, 11:03:36 pm
Waiting in London would tend to be more than a single cycle of the lights ...

Like you, I've got a tendency to head for the best looking gap: I'm very happy for this to be on the outside though, being a fairly, um, assertive filterer.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 07 January, 2016, 07:26:06 am
Not as bad as forecast. The majority of the rain beat me so all I had to deal with was hummingbirds (autocorrect!) humungous puddles.

I'll not be coming in tomorrow :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 07 January, 2016, 10:28:44 am
Strong wind, heavy rain. Type 2 fun.

Worse this evening, so accepted the offer of a lift home from Mrs P  :thumbsup: :-*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 07 January, 2016, 11:26:30 am
Got held up in the rain by a load of impatient drivers.

It was bin day, and the bin lorry was blocking a very narrow section of road into a little village. Cars built up on either side of this blockage, and the lead car at the front of the truck decided to park in such a way as to block the bin lorry from moving :facepalm:

Then when that was finally sorted out, the same lead car* and the lead car from my direction** decided to both go for the narrow gap at the same time and block it up. Then neither train of cars was willing to move. Must have been a good 10 minutes all in including the bin lorry. The road is too narrow to filter past them.

Finally extracted from this mess, the last 5 minutes of my commute (where I should have been safely sat at my desk inside) were absolutely torrential. I've still not dried out properly.

I is not happy!

*Sporting a Battenburg of twattishness roundel on the front
**Sporting the 4 arseholes of selfishness
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 07 January, 2016, 01:48:32 pm
Quote from: jsabine on 06 January, 2016, 11:03:36 pm
Waiting in London would tend to be more than a single cycle of the lights ...

This.  If I time it wrong then I can find myself having to filter for a significant part of the journey between Clapham Common and Battersea Park Road (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/dir/51.4612805,-0.1489343/51.4763338,-0.1482664/@51.4688144,-0.1572809,15z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m4!4m3!2m1!1b1!3e1) (over a mile).  That's one of the reasons I'll try and get to that point before 6-30am, then it's likely to be almost a clear path.

Quote from: jsabine on 06 January, 2016, 11:03:36 pm
Like you, I've got a tendency to head for the best looking gap: I'm very happy for this to be on the outside though, being a fairly, um, assertive filterer.

... and it depends on so many factors, weather, lighting, road width, traffic speed, junctions etc etc.


Today was wet, very wet.  On the plus side, the wind was at least behind me, and has swung around enough that it will mostly not be a headwind on the way home.  Yay!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 07 January, 2016, 01:57:35 pm
Quote from: TimO on 07 January, 2016, 01:48:32 pm
Quote from: jsabine on 06 January, 2016, 11:03:36 pm
Waiting in London would tend to be more than a single cycle of the lights ...

This.

Yeah.  I appreciate that things work differently in Birmingham, where 50 years of 1960s transport policy mean that motor traffic actually flows fairly well (to the detriment of everything else), except when some extra factor (typically a collision or emergency roadworks) causes things to snarl up.

Plus I'm usually cycling in the south of the city, where there are reasonable options for cyclists taking an alternative route to avoid traffic chaos.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 07 January, 2016, 02:31:22 pm
Didn't have much to do today and spent a meeting idly playing with google maps doing virtual tours. Then realised I didn't have much to do in the afternoon - so why not ride home the long, long way.

I took in the World's Best Cycle Lane - a busway only for the use of buses and bikes. Perfect smooth tarmac and, being an old rail line, flat as a die. Despite wearing office garb underneath full waterproofs, I flew. Superb.

Then I hit the coast and turned right. And into an absolute wall of a headwind. OMFG. You know in another post I mentioned that my flat commute meant I'd never used the big ring in all 9 months of owning this bike - well I used it all the way home today. In fact, I used bottom bottom gear all the way home. I was grovelling at stall speed for miles.  It was grimtastic.

I stopped briefly to catch my breath and had one of those faffy five minutes when everything goes mildly wrong. The wind took my hat. A glove dropped in a puddle and then my bike blew over. Grr.

Then back on the bike for more walking speed semi-progress.

But it was all worth it!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 07 January, 2016, 04:04:12 pm
Quote from: Pancho on 07 January, 2016, 02:31:22 pm
Then I hit the coast and turned right. And into an absolute wall of a headwind. OMFG. You know in another post I mentioned that my flat commute meant I'd never used the big ring in all 9 months of owning this bike - well I used it all the way home today. In fact, I used bottom bottom gear all the way home. I was grovelling at stall speed for miles.  It was grimtastic.

I stopped briefly to catch my breath and had one of those faffy five minutes when everything goes mildly wrong. The wind took my hat. A glove dropped in a puddle and then my bike blew over. Grr.

Then back on the bike for more walking speed semi-progress.

But it was all worth it!

Sounds like a damnably satisfying challenge :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 07 January, 2016, 05:11:14 pm
Certainly beats sitting in the office!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DDCyclist on 07 January, 2016, 06:32:16 pm
You must have the misfortune of working in a very dismal office.  :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mustgettaller on 08 January, 2016, 07:20:42 am
Quote from: Pancho on 07 January, 2016, 02:31:22 pm
...I took in the World's Best Cycle Lane - a busway only for the use of buses and bikes...

Pancho - I've been meaning to ask where your commute is, as it sounds local-ish to me (I'm in Emsworth, Hants) but I've only managed to glean hints from your route descriptions and photos. However the above sounds like Fareham/Gosport. Am I close?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 08 January, 2016, 07:54:25 am
Quote from: mustgettaller on 08 January, 2016, 07:20:42 am
Quote from: Pancho on 07 January, 2016, 02:31:22 pm
...I took in the World's Best Cycle Lane - a busway only for the use of buses and bikes...

Pancho - I've been meaning to ask where your commute is, as it sounds local-ish to me (I'm in Emsworth, Hants) but I've only managed to glean hints from your route descriptions and photos. However the above sounds like Fareham/Gosport. Am I close?

It was indeed the Fareham-Gosport busway. Not my usual route but it really is a great facility (as I saw a fair few bikes on it, I assume it serves local purposes rather than just being a nice place to ride). Shame the budget to extend it was binned last year (in favour of building a new road).

I'm towards the Hamble and head towards / into Portsmouth (actual length depends on office-of-the-day). I stick to the coast (Sustrans Route 2) for the first leg as it's simply so glorious - and would still be so even if the alternative wasn't a hilly A27 dual carriageway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 08 January, 2016, 08:37:17 am
Cycling through the rush hour looking like my avatar seems to be affecting road safety in Manchester as drivers pull alongside and slow down to make sure they weren't hallucinating at the lights, although it did seem to break the monotony for one or two bus passengers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 08 January, 2016, 10:03:40 am
Lovely one in this morning but got a bit warm having swapped to full bibtights and winter boots today. Roll on the elongated ride home through the park!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 08 January, 2016, 11:54:34 am
I appear to be back on my 50k cross London ride for the next week. Did I really do this nearly every day? It's all a bit of a shock to the system.

Oh. And two effing visitations in the last two miles, thanks to the A30 semi-glazed bike path. Grrrr.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 08 January, 2016, 01:37:55 pm
Quote from: hatler on 06 January, 2016, 02:39:56 pm
I'm desperately trying to get into the habit of 'commuting' when I now work from home. I'm aiming for being out of the door at 8.30 with the aim of two spins round Richmond Park every day, otherwise I'll never get back to being properly fit. So far (early days yet) I've managed three out of three. It's a whole different level of motivation required when you don't actually have to do it.
Huzzah. I've managed my old full-house commuting mileage this week. Only managed one lap of RP yesterday (v early Heathrow run and sheeting rain combined to delay my set-off) but I compensated by indulging in an RP triple today. Just have to keep that going for the rest of the year now. (How an earth does Teethgrinder keep going ? Beyond comprehension.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 08 January, 2016, 01:51:45 pm
Once I become fully unemployed, to maintain my *lowest* weekly commute distance I've realised I'm going to have to go for some proper long recreational/utility rides. It's amazing what you clock up just going to work - I think my minimum is between 75 and 100 miles a week.

That was part of my rationale for yesterday's spin. The route will form part of a 25 mile loop to the shops. Despite being urban in places, it'll be a nice ride out of rush hour - combining working harbour views, beach side gravel tracks, and quiet roads. But will I self-motivate to do it three times a week?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 08 January, 2016, 02:26:27 pm
Quote from: Pancho on 08 January, 2016, 01:51:45 pm
Once I become fully unemployed, to maintain my *lowest* weekly commute distance I've realised I'm going to have to go for some proper long recreational/utility rides. It's amazing what you clock up just going to work - I think my minimum is between 75 and 100 miles a week.

That was part of my rationale for yesterday's spin. The route will form part of a 25 mile loop to the shops. Despite being urban in places, it'll be a nice ride out of rush hour - combining working harbour views, beach side gravel tracks, and quiet roads. But will I self-motivate to do it three times a week?

Not having a regular commute, my experience is that this sort of is eminently achievable as long as the weather is good.  Urban miles in the cold and dark are strictly a utility thing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 08 January, 2016, 04:32:29 pm
There was a little flooding on the Tooting Bec Common cycle path, yesterday afternoon.  Thankfully it had gone by this morning.

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/TootingBecCommonCyclePathFlooding20160107.jpg)
Click for YouTube video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RkkKOzPqwd0)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 08 January, 2016, 05:58:04 pm
Nice ride home, didn't do the little by route as I would seem to have pulled an intercostal muscle. Popped to Evans to discuss cardboard boxes and then on the way back from there it rained! Still, was correctly kittens out and happy as Larry.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 08 January, 2016, 06:57:48 pm
According to Mr Google, this is what Major Bonk looks like.

(http://thumbs.dreamstime.com/z/self-head-bonk-cartoon-man-bonks-himself-small-wooden-bat-40497793.jpg)

I made his acquaintance  tonight, but I couldn't quite make out his features.

FWIW, from commutes passim I knew to have some food-y thing on me, but given the weather, ICNBA to stop.

Aaaaand rest.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 08 January, 2016, 08:36:50 pm
some scrotey little kid feinted me on the shared use path, it was absurd, he saw me and moved apart from his two mates and started stroking his chin then turned his back, it was blindingly obvious what he was going to do and sure enough when I drew level he spun around and lunged. It was appalling acting and I cut him dead.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 11 January, 2016, 09:55:37 am
Nice run in- left it until late to make the decision with regards the weather and it stopped raining! Beats PT every time!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 11 January, 2016, 07:37:22 pm
Exhibit A: A youthful looking cyclist on a splendid fixed gear bicycle.
Exhibit B: A large and deep puddle spanning the width of the road and extending for around 50m of its length.
Exhibit C: A pair of soggy and cold feet. There may be some causal relationship involving Exhibits A and B.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 11 January, 2016, 07:47:44 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 11 January, 2016, 07:37:22 pm
Exhibit A: A youthful looking cyclist on a splendid fixed gear bicycle.
Exhibit B: A large and deep puddle spanning the width of the road and extending for around 50m of its length.
Exhibit C: A pair of soggy and cold feet. There may be some causal relationship involving Exhibits A and B.

Anyone we know?  :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 11 January, 2016, 07:49:49 pm
Me.(nothing to do with the ^ above post)
First time in Lycra for nearly three weeks.

Now for the good news.
Unlike post-xmas last year, the trousers I wear to work continue to fit me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: delthebike on 11 January, 2016, 07:59:31 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 11 January, 2016, 07:49:49 pm
Unlike post-xmas last year, the trousers I wear to work continue to fit me.
These would be the 40" waist pair you bought especially last year then!  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 11 January, 2016, 08:33:50 pm
Quote from: TimO on 08 January, 2016, 04:32:29 pm
There was a little flooding on the Tooting Bec Common cycle path, yesterday afternoon.  Thankfully it had gone by this morning. ...

... and again, this morning.

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/TootingBecCommonFord_20160111_320.jpg) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/TootingBecCommonFord_20160111.jpg)

I'm just about to depart on my journey home, and I hope it will have drained away during the day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 11 January, 2016, 08:54:11 pm
Getting cold out there. I did my 20 mile long homeward* route this evening. Got rained  from climbing the big hill about 6 miles from the end all the way home, and I'm still trying to warm my thighs up in front of the fire nearly two hours later. Enjoyed the ride, but need to layer up better!


*In that it eventually goes home after heading in the wrong direction for quite a long way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Divingrob on 11 January, 2016, 09:33:13 pm
Rode into work today and the last song on my Aftershokz's was David Bowie loving the alien. Went inside and heard the very sad news.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 11 January, 2016, 10:24:13 pm
Cold enough on the school run today that I actually put on socks for the karate run this evening!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 11 January, 2016, 10:54:48 pm
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 11 January, 2016, 10:24:13 pm
Cold enough on the school run today that I actually put on socks for the karate run this evening!

Uh-oh.  It'll be studded tyres weather by the end of the week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 12 January, 2016, 08:17:27 am
No danger of snow here in the deep south!

But nice ride in this morning. No rain!

I've not been at work Fri and Mon and really notice the benefit of an early ride this morning. I feel awake, fresh and clear-lunged.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 12 January, 2016, 08:31:13 am
Rose out of the saddle to go over the canal bridge at Stretford and <pop>......the saga of the broken spoke continues.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 12 January, 2016, 12:49:43 pm
Visitation yesterday near home so walked back. Nice enough in this morning although I did get a little warm after deploying a slightly misjudged merino underlayer from torm!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 12 January, 2016, 12:51:03 pm
Came home early. Lovely clear roads. And, wow, daylight! That really makes a difference. I could see the huge extent and depth of the puddles I rode through in darkness and ignorance this morning.

But, warning to anyone heading West this evening: it's bloody windy. Good news for those heading East, of course.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 12 January, 2016, 12:58:16 pm
On the way in, an horrible wind. But nice and dry.Lets up the tyre stays up this week  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 12 January, 2016, 03:33:37 pm
Almost got taken out by a suicidal moggy when decending at 50+ km/h, but otherwise a good ride in.  :)

Looks like I'm going to get wet in an hour or two though and the wind is biting cold. Maybe not a day for another long ride home :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 12 January, 2016, 05:16:27 pm
I finally spotted the Mystery Brommie Rider tonight, and he was taking a peculiar route to the station (I assume he comes from the station as there's a Cycle Heaven sticker on his bike and why else would you ride a Brommie in Darlo?).

I was on the cyclepath, and studded tyres. He was on the road.

I overhauled him near the college, so I drew the following two conclusions:

1. The path is quicker than the road
B. Studded tyres are still quicker than Brommies.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 12 January, 2016, 05:53:52 pm
You can get Brommie-sized studded tyres these days.  Ideal if you want a really good workout, have to get multi-modal in winter, or are investigating the effects of salt exposure on Brompton rear triangles.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 12 January, 2016, 06:01:55 pm
Was bloody windy on the way home!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 12 January, 2016, 08:30:16 pm
Quote from: Kim on 12 January, 2016, 05:53:52 pm
You can get Brommie-sized studded tyres these days.  Ideal if you want a really good workout, have to get multi-modal in winter, or are investigating the effects of salt exposure on Brompton rear triangles.

£60 for a pair though! :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 12 January, 2016, 08:39:39 pm
Quote from: TimO on 12 January, 2016, 08:30:16 pm
Quote from: Kim on 12 January, 2016, 05:53:52 pm
You can get Brommie-sized studded tyres these days.  Ideal if you want a really good workout, have to get multi-modal in winter, or are investigating the effects of salt exposure on Brompton rear triangles.

£60 for a pair though! :o

Come back in August?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 13 January, 2016, 12:25:48 pm
Nice ride out to my first Morris dancing practice last night, up through Cranham and along the other side of the valley. However I counted 14 cars with only one working headlight in the 20km I traveled, most of them on the unlit country lanes.

D.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Datameister on 13 January, 2016, 12:55:00 pm
Quote from: davelodwig on 13 January, 2016, 12:25:48 pm
However I counted 14 cars with only one working headlight in the 20km I traveled, most of them on the unlit country lanes.

D.

Sadly, this appears to be increasingly 'normal'. Play the game of "count the cars I encounter without coming across one with busted lighting" and my personal experience is you are unlikely to reach 100 before starting again at 1.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 13 January, 2016, 01:55:15 pm
Bit icy dicy this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moultonaught on 13 January, 2016, 02:06:03 pm
nice ride in this morning until 2 mins from the office I heard a curious  thump thump from the back wheel. Stopped to find a inch and a half wood screw sticking out of my rear tyre  >:(

Still least wasn't far to walk to the office - where it can be fixed in the warm...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 13 January, 2016, 03:00:04 pm
Snap, Crackle, Pop!

Looks like I warded off the ice by fitting the Winters last night. Sunny on the way in. Again looks like it won't be on the way home
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 13 January, 2016, 05:03:26 pm
It did actually go sub-zero last night. So I stayed safely tucked up at home. I very much doubt there was actually any ice on our very warm roads but I'm beginning to get ice-phobia.

Have to go into the office tomorrow am crossing fingers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 14 January, 2016, 07:19:54 am
Bugger.  It's snowing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 14 January, 2016, 08:46:58 am
Left work last night with commuting buddy straight into traffic carnage, lord only know what was happening in Manchester, as we got to Moss Side job centre I was forced to use the naughty voice to prevent a right hook and she then ran the gap between me and my mate  :o who was now stuck at the lights so I pulled in at the old Hyde's brewery and waited for a solid and blinky light to catch up down the cycle lane. On reaching Brooks Bar another right hook was attempted and I had a bit of a rant about having a target painted on me and a voice came from behind "Is that you Si?" - it's my other commuting mate, so gain one lose one. Soft pedaling down Kings Road and buddy #1 caught up at the quadrant.

At the lights at Stretford there was a gaggle of cyclists and a peleton of six formed past the mall briefly before some peel off and a train of 3 was left for the run to Urmston where one more peels off. Damn good fun.

Cracking tailwind this morning  :thumbsup: 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 14 January, 2016, 09:04:13 am
Woke up with atrociously painful bad back. Couldn't even bend down to put my socks on. :(

Day in office and associated commute therefore cancelled. Shame - it looks nice out there.

Currently sitting on sofa watching something weird on Netflix. With cold, sockless feet. And waiting for Tramadol to kick in. I only have a couple left of these illicitly hoarded wonder-pills :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 14 January, 2016, 09:37:04 am
Pancho, if you can manage it, here's what I do:

Lie on the floor on your back, with a slim book underneath (supporting) your head. Bring your feet up towards your backside, which will encourage your back to flatten further (prevents the lower back arching). Rest arms either side of body, palms down beside your hips.

Relax, for about 20 minutes. Roll to one side onto hands and knees, and get back up, maybe with a chair nearby for support.

Having described the above, it's also important to be active, so the muscles that have possibly spasmed (and locked) are eased. Keep warm.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: D.A.L.E. on 14 January, 2016, 10:34:42 am
Quote from: Deano on 12 January, 2016, 05:16:27 pm
I finally spotted the Mystery Brommie Rider tonight, and he was taking a peculiar route to the station (I assume he comes from the station as there's a Cycle Heaven sticker on his bike and why else would you ride a Brommie in Darlo?).

I was on the cyclepath, and studded tyres. He was on the road.

I overhauled him near the college, so I drew the following two conclusions:

1. The path is quicker than the road
B. Studded tyres are still quicker than Brommies.

What do you reckon of studded tyres? Playing with the idea of chucking some on the CdF, probably Schwalbe Winter 30s.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 14 January, 2016, 11:06:58 am
Yesterday was the first time I needed to be aboard the mothership this year and I was tempted to get the train, I'm no fan of the cold and my fingers and toes get hurty quickly, even in thick gloves and socks (I have to wear skiing mittens). But I'd not cycled since before Christmas and was getting a bit itchy to go for a spin (plus I'm travelling next week, so will be cooped up in a hotel), so I half-and-halfed it and got the train in and cycled home on the Brompton. Not as cold as I thought, regretted not cycling in too. Nearly made it, but I had evidently neglected to charge the batteries in the front lights so they faded in tandem and I had to bail and got the train for the last 3 miles. Bah. At least there was a delayed train fortuitously being decoupled at the station when I arrived (so gave me time to hump the bike up the stairs and hop on). Lights revived enough for the two minute sprint from the station to home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 14 January, 2016, 12:17:07 pm
Had to be in an hour earlier than normal, so reaquainted with the rush hour I normally avoid. It's amazing how much nicer it is to ride in after the roads have all been blocked up with cars.
Quote from: Dale on 14 January, 2016, 10:34:42 am
What do you reckon of studded tyres? Playing with the idea of chucking some on the CdF, probably Schwalbe Winter 30s.

I have 30mm Winters on my bike at the moment. They are a bit heavier than normal tyres, and I find them a little less grippy on corners when the road isn't icy than normal tyres, but they are significantly better than the Snow studs for rolling resistance.

I haven't yet had enough ice to test them properly on that, but on previous experince with the Snow Studs, I could ride on surfaces I couldn't stand up on (DAMHIKT)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 14 January, 2016, 01:41:02 pm
Nice straight bit of country road, get to a bit with pronounced camber- Ouch! Fuck me but that was icy.

Bikes OK. I'm scuffed and tender. Walked a mile and a bit sliding all over the place before I could mount up again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 14 January, 2016, 04:33:00 pm
Quote from: Riggers on 14 January, 2016, 09:37:04 am
Pancho, if you can manage it, here's what I do:

Lie on the floor on your back, with a slim book underneath (supporting) your head. Bring your feet up towards your backside, which will encourage your back to flatten further (prevents the lower back arching). Rest arms either side of body, palms down beside your hips.

Relax, for about 20 minutes. Roll to one side onto hands and knees, and get back up, maybe with a chair nearby for support.

Having described the above, it's also important to be active, so the muscles that have possibly spasmed (and locked) are eased. Keep warm.

Thanks for the tip. Not sure if it worked much but I may try it again later. Just had a warm wave of cocodomol kicking in - so probably a good time for clambering down onto the floor and up again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cycleman on 14 January, 2016, 08:01:23 pm
Quote from: fuzzy (retd.) AAGE on 14 January, 2016, 01:41:02 pm
Nice straight bit of country road, get to a bit with pronounced camber- Ouch! Fuck me but that was icy.

Bikes OK. I'm scuffed and tender. Walked a mile and a bit sliding all over the place before I could mount up again.
You will have to get one of those nice three wheelers sold in the Marlow cycle shop  :demon: ;) .
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 14 January, 2016, 10:45:54 pm
Quote from: Dale on 14 January, 2016, 10:34:42 am
Quote from: Deano on 12 January, 2016, 05:16:27 pm
I finally spotted the Mystery Brommie Rider tonight, and he was taking a peculiar route to the station (I assume he comes from the station as there's a Cycle Heaven sticker on his bike and why else would you ride a Brommie in Darlo?).

I was on the cyclepath, and studded tyres. He was on the road.

I overhauled him near the college, so I drew the following two conclusions:

1. The path is quicker than the road
B. Studded tyres are still quicker than Brommies.

What do you reckon of studded tyres? Playing with the idea of chucking some on the CdF, probably Schwalbe Winter 30s.

I'm sold on them. It's my third winter on these tyres, and the great thing is the confidence to go out when otherwise you mightn't, and the assurance to deal with unforeseen black ice. It can be frustrating when you go out and realise that it isn't actually icy enough to justify them (I saw a guy in shorts last year when I had no body part covered in less than two layers, and there wasn't a hint of ice - he was still a nutter, though). Think of it as training.

I have Winters as well, which just have two central rows of studs rather than all the way round. It's enough on straight roads and with careful cornering, just remember they aren't a get-out-of-jail-free card.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 15 January, 2016, 08:37:16 am
Studs deployed and my nerves are shot:

1)   Couple of hairy moments on the estate as I had to learn how to ride on studs again, my word I set those brakes up sharp.
2)   Psychopath outside the old job centre in Cadishead who didn’t like my road position tried to run me off the road 3 times – the third time he might have realised why I was where I was as he had to reverse to extract his BMW from the traffic island and fishtailed off up the road screaming obscenities.
3)   An unplanned dismount on the locks as I got too ambitious trying to take the stupidly acute turn – no harm done, landed on my feet
4)   An idiot in a tip-me-over-quick toy 4x4 who went for a left hook and looked very surprised as all 4 wheels locked up when she hit the brakes hard then found herself facing me and sliding backwards down the road.

I guess it may take the motons a little while to figure out the effects of all the shiny stuff on the ground again.

Ah well, its all fun.

 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 15 January, 2016, 10:03:13 am
First day of icy roads for me today. After all the rain there's a lot of it about. Luckily it did look like most of the drivers had opted for the gritted main road so I didn't have experiences like yours Si.

Must remember not to try and climb icy hills standing up as I spun the rear wheel again this morning doing that which is a bit scary.

Glorious sunshine and just about no wind though, and the higher fells are looking very pretty in white. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 15 January, 2016, 11:19:41 am
On the brommie and train. Nice wee doze on the train too.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 15 January, 2016, 11:20:40 am
Pootled in quite happily. Clothing choice pretty much perfect, at most might have needed glove liners as an extra!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rafletcher on 15 January, 2016, 12:09:07 pm
Quote from: Si S on 15 January, 2016, 08:37:16 am

4)   An idiot in a tip-me-over-quick toy 4x4 who went for a left hook and looked very surprised as all 4 wheels locked up when she hit the brakes hard then found herself facing me and sliding backwards down the road.
 

It's amazing how few 4x4 drivers realise that ice just means a 4 wheel drift  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 15 January, 2016, 02:24:05 pm
Bottled it.  Train.
I'm just fed up with being cold.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 15 January, 2016, 04:19:54 pm
Quote from: Basil on 15 January, 2016, 02:24:05 pm
Bottled it.  Train.
I'm just fed up with being cold.

I bottled it also- drove. The cold I can deal with. The pain and adhesion is what I don't like......
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 15 January, 2016, 04:54:51 pm
I have a very simple rule; if it's icy I don't ride my bike.  Frustrating at times, but not as frustrating as a banged up body which might keep me off the bike even longer than the odd missed day.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 15 January, 2016, 05:34:49 pm
^ this

I had an off a couple of years ago during the really wet winter. We had two days of hard frost, a week apart. On the first of those I was cycling to work with no problems until I got to a section of road with a really bad camber where the water had been continuously running across the road for weeks. Even if they had gritted it would have all washed off. It took me ages to feel comfortable on that section of road if there was the slightest bit of dampness about.
I did consider ice tyres but they'd probably get less than ten days use a year down here and it's just not worth it.

S (official wimp)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: falcon on 15 January, 2016, 05:41:56 pm
Commuted my 25 mile round trip today with spike tyres on including icy lanes. Utterly brilliant! Only realised how slippy it was when people were sliding all over the car park! Schwalbe Marathon winter highly recommended. Got mine from planet X £15 a go, think they are still on offer.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: caerau on 15 January, 2016, 07:23:29 pm
off at 5mph this morning when I realised there was proper black ice everywhere. Spent the day in casualty - result - torn tendon in right arm elbow - bugger.


This left handed typing is sloooooow.


Bugger  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 15 January, 2016, 07:42:12 pm
Quote from: Caerau on 15 January, 2016, 07:23:29 pm
off at 5mph this morning when I realised there was proper black ice everywhere. Spent the day in casualty - result - torn tendon in right arm elbow - bugger.


This left handed typing is sloooooow.


Bugger  :(

Sorry to hear that.
It has to be asked.  How's the bike?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 15 January, 2016, 07:53:24 pm
Pootled home happily, perfectly warm and happy!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 18 January, 2016, 11:13:22 am
Not chilly enough for my espresso jacket. Back to the alpha tomorrow I think!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 18 January, 2016, 11:22:16 am
Feeling a little under the weather and legs felt like lead. Shame, it's a nice day out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 18 January, 2016, 11:26:09 am
Very sore hands holding the bars after several hours hammer drilling yesterday, how can hands be sore and numb at the same time?  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: caerau on 18 January, 2016, 12:37:54 pm
Quote from: Basil on 15 January, 2016, 07:42:12 pm
Quote from: Caerau on 15 January, 2016, 07:23:29 pm
off at 5mph this morning when I realised there was proper black ice everywhere. Spent the day in casualty - result - torn tendon in right arm elbow - bugger.


This left handed typing is sloooooow.


Bugger  :(

Sorry to hear that.
It has to be asked.  How's the bike?


The rear light was 180 degrees rotated, aside from that heinous blow, fine :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 18 January, 2016, 01:33:50 pm
Quote from: Si S on 18 January, 2016, 11:26:09 am
Very sore hands holding the bars after several hours hammer drilling yesterday, how can hands be sore and numb at the same time?  ???

The nerves are routed differently for different parts of the hand.  The numbness will likely be due to inflammation in the wrist, which tends to affect the medial nerve.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 19 January, 2016, 08:54:34 am
With a clear sky at 6.50 this a.m. the quality of light meant I rode in through a world of silvery-blue sparkles
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 19 January, 2016, 09:14:49 am
Quote from: Kim on 18 January, 2016, 01:33:50 pm
Quote from: Si S on 18 January, 2016, 11:26:09 am
Very sore hands holding the bars after several hours hammer drilling yesterday, how can hands be sore and numb at the same time?  ???

The nerves are routed differently for different parts of the hand.  The numbness will likely be due to inflammation in the wrist, which tends to affect the medial nerve.

Thanks Kim, a bit of google-fu and that explains the tingling in my thumb now, it'll be reet.

Last nights and this mornings commute both characterised by still air and a strange lack of traffic, what a difference both make although the latter is really strange since school is certainly not out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 19 January, 2016, 10:17:15 am
Cold out there! Nice pootle in though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 19 January, 2016, 10:42:18 am
Lovely this morning, just a little ice on the way down to the main road. I also stuck to the roads through Newport rather than the underpass and over pass on the roundabout due to slipping opportunities.

But it was nice to have no wind or rain. Wasn't too chilly when I got going, but I have now got used knowing what to wear.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 19 January, 2016, 12:44:36 pm
Rode into work in my shorts. Was fine....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 19 January, 2016, 05:55:48 pm
Chilly but nice bimble home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 19 January, 2016, 06:06:46 pm
Don't know why I wimped out one day last week.  This morning was much colder and lovely.
Beautiful sunrise skies.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonBuoy on 19 January, 2016, 08:31:58 pm
-3 degC this morning but extra layers made it bearable then I spotted the sunrise.  The picture doesn't really do it justice:


(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1624/24119238989_428b1102a4_k.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 19 January, 2016, 08:46:01 pm
Quote from: JonBuoy on 19 January, 2016, 08:31:58 pm
-3 degC this morning but extra layers made it bearable then I spotted the sunrise.  The picture doesn't really do it justice:


(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1624/24119238989_428b1102a4_k.jpg)

Yes. That is exactly what I was seeing on the last leg in Brum this morning.  Wasn't it beautiful?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 19 January, 2016, 08:49:01 pm
A man in a large Audi saloon carefully reversing it into a parking space slightly shorter than the Audi.  Sickening crunch of rear bumper against brick wall.  Moral: he should choose the parking sensor option next time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonBuoy on 19 January, 2016, 09:01:25 pm
Quote from: Basil on 19 January, 2016, 08:46:01 pm
Quote from: JonBuoy on 19 January, 2016, 08:31:58 pm
-3 degC this morning but extra layers made it bearable then I spotted the sunrise.  The picture doesn't really do it justice:


(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1624/24119238989_428b1102a4_k.jpg)

Yes. That is exactly what I was seeing on the last leg in Brum this morning.  Wasn't it beautiful?

It was quite stunning.  I was just concerned that my photo-vantage point meant that I might be accused of being a 'spotter'.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 19 January, 2016, 09:03:43 pm
Eh?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: caerau on 19 January, 2016, 09:30:34 pm
Quote from: Caerau on 15 January, 2016, 07:23:29 pm
off at 5mph this morning when I realised there was proper black ice everywhere. Spent the day in casualty - result - torn tendon in right arm elbow - bugger.


This left handed typing is sloooooow.


Bugger  :(


Make that a fully ruptured bicep tendon, massive bugger  :( >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 19 January, 2016, 09:32:28 pm
Ouch. GWS Caerau
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: caerau on 19 January, 2016, 09:35:58 pm
GWS may not come in to it.  Unless I can get the NHS to change their mind this is permanent loss of a fairly major muscle  :(
Surgery is required to repair it but they are not keen.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 19 January, 2016, 10:18:54 pm
Why on Earth not if it's so major?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 20 January, 2016, 06:50:38 am
Quote from: rogerzilla on 19 January, 2016, 08:49:01 pm
A man in a large Audi saloon carefully reversing it into a parking space slightly shorter than the Audi.  Sickening crunch of rear bumper against brick wall.  Moral: he should choose the parking sensor option next time.

Or a smaller car.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonBuoy on 20 January, 2016, 07:04:49 am
Quote from: Basil on 19 January, 2016, 09:03:43 pm
Eh?

A trainspotter  -  taking photo's over the parapet of a railway bridge.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 20 January, 2016, 08:18:15 am
Quote from: rogerzilla on 19 January, 2016, 08:49:01 pm
A man in a large Audi saloon carefully reversing it into a parking space slightly shorter than the Audi.  Sickening crunch of rear bumper against brick wall.  Moral: he should choose the parking sensor option next time.
Why would that be sickening ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 20 January, 2016, 08:39:26 am
Bloomin' parky this morning. 
The bloke who is always in shorts was still in shorts.  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 20 January, 2016, 08:44:13 am
A steady one this morning, enjoying just cruising along.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 20 January, 2016, 01:03:48 pm
Quote from: rogerzilla on 19 January, 2016, 08:49:01 pm
A man in a large Audi saloon carefully reversing it into a parking space slightly shorter than the Audi.  Sickening crunch of rear bumper against brick wall.  Moral: he should choose the parking sensor option next time.

My parking sensors have taken to emitting a continuous "EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE" for a while after it's rained heavily...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 20 January, 2016, 03:40:02 pm
Quote from: Basil on 20 January, 2016, 08:39:26 am
Bloomin' parky this morning. 
The bloke who is always in shorts was still in shorts.  :o

Me?

I am always in short ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mustgettaller on 20 January, 2016, 05:05:16 pm
I agree with 'parky'. -3.6oC according to my Pubometer (I mean Garmin). My nice new Sealskinz gloves only just fended of the cold - just slightly painful fingers, rather than agony.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 20 January, 2016, 05:58:19 pm
Just a little light still showing in the sky as I left work this evening.  Balmy summer nights are just around the corner.  :)
It was also considerably warmer less cold than this morning.  I'm guessing 1degree.  Therefore 5.5 degrees warmer.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 20 January, 2016, 06:38:22 pm
 I pulled round a rb to take the first exit a little early, a van came round faster than I expected and I kind of blocked him slightly, raised a hand in apology and got the flashing hazards as they passed. One great driver is worth five shockers, I keep saying to myself.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 21 January, 2016, 08:44:04 am
First commute on the new steed, Ozzy, its lovely, really nice ride. Got the saddle position sorted, still need to sort the bar height out, needs a bit more drop, may put a few more psi in the tyres too but the 28's make a massive difference compared to 23's at 110.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 21 January, 2016, 12:04:00 pm
New rear wheel on my singlespeed has really made the ride to and from work smoother, even with the same tyres. The old wheels had relatively deep section rims, wonder if that's what the difference was.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rafletcher on 21 January, 2016, 03:30:07 pm
Quote from: Mr Larrington on 20 January, 2016, 01:03:48 pm
Quote from: rogerzilla on 19 January, 2016, 08:49:01 pm
A man in a large Audi saloon carefully reversing it into a parking space slightly shorter than the Audi.  Sickening crunch of rear bumper against brick wall.  Moral: he should choose the parking sensor option next time.

My parking sensors have taken to emitting a continuous "EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE" for a while after it's rained heavily...

Yep, that's a common fault.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 22 January, 2016, 08:51:13 am
Wet and windy (ish) this morning so back on the bike after 3 days of ice enforced motonity.

 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 22 January, 2016, 10:45:55 am
Me!  :)
For the first time in 3 days.
I confess to having chickend out while the temperatures have been sub zero.
Broken wrist or clavicle? No ta.
On reflection, I would've prolly been ok for most of my commute - it's the traffic-free bits through parks etc which caused concern.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 22 January, 2016, 03:16:05 pm
I'm still out of action :( Better get in the saddle soon - only a max of 25 commuting days left until unemployment. And as I work from home a lot, not even that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Katie on 22 January, 2016, 08:27:36 pm
Me! And I got a new QOM! On a really hairy bit of road I don't like!

Stripped chain down to bare metal and re-lubed it today, as well as generally cleaning the whole bike. Previous average kph for commute in this direction at this time of day - 18kph. Today - 24kph. #cleanbikesgofaster ;)

Pretty bloody happy with myself :)

https://www.strava.com/activities/475918334
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 25 January, 2016, 02:29:56 pm
I can't believe it's late January and I'm riding in in shorts. And, unless something really drastic happens to the weather in the next 1 1/2 hours, riding home in shorts too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 25 January, 2016, 03:09:54 pm
Empty legs today, nothing there at all  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Torslanda on 25 January, 2016, 04:05:18 pm
Quote from: Si S on 25 January, 2016, 03:09:54 pm
Empty legs today, nothing there at all  :(

Disc brakes aren't binding by any chance?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 25 January, 2016, 04:15:04 pm
Quote from: Torslanda on 25 January, 2016, 04:05:18 pm
Quote from: Si S on 25 January, 2016, 03:09:54 pm
Empty legs today, nothing there at all  :(

Disc brakes aren't binding by any chance?

No, on the trek today, consequences of riding 200k onna Sunday, usually I do it on a Saturday for this reason.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Torslanda on 25 January, 2016, 04:50:07 pm
 :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 25 January, 2016, 05:28:27 pm
It seems that cycling fixes a bad back. After lolling about in a haze of drugs and pain for a week, I girded loins, gritted teeth, and (carefully) mounted up this morning and set off into the gloom.

Well, stone me - immediate awesome comfort. Cured by the time I got to the office 9 miles later. WTF?

Back to the doc's in a week's time but it'll be an easy appointment if I don't relapse.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 25 January, 2016, 10:51:37 pm
Quote from: Pancho on 25 January, 2016, 05:28:27 pm
It seems that cycling fixes a bad back.

My experience too albeit not a "bad back" just aches and pains from "everyday" life.
Stretching out on the bike and, crucially I think, staying fairly static seems to help.

Rolling back a few days (to Saturday), I rode in again.
It would have been great if my new locker key hadn't been with my car keys.Since I'd ridden in, I hadn't taken my car keys  :facepalm:. Most of my work gear was in the locker .......

I was able to find someone with the Precious Master Locker Key* so I managed to get my work stuff but her shift finished at 15.00, mine at 22.15. I had to take all my stuff home.
My safety shoes are heavy and they're bulky. My (one) pannier was bulging on the return.


Out to (Middle) Eastlands was along the Fallowfield Loop (the FLoop for locals) and then along the Yellow Brick Road towards Sportcity.
The Yellow Brick Road section is glass strewn but navigable (just, it's not a long term option).
I chose not to use the Ashton Canal so I cut through the grassy knolls of the apparently "nice" housing developments.
The footpaths were strewn with glass so I took to the grassy knolls. Hard work on a heavily laden bike through sodden ground.

Going home was simply a case of heading through MCR centre with a bulging pannier. I finished early so I was back in time to watch MoTD.
Not that that was a good thing...........

I'm sure that my next bike commute will be slick
Tomorow will involve the car and lots of gear.

* Worrying** lack of identity required before my locker was opened.
** No ID, no "What's in your locker ?" required. Typical I suppose.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 26 January, 2016, 08:27:47 am
Horrible headwind last night so I was hanging on to my mates wheel for dear life, think he might need a mudflap

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1669/24526476301_3bdc386a15_m.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/DnjAV4)DSC_0184 (https://flic.kr/p/DnjAV4) by Si S (https://www.flickr.com/photos/139168966@N07/), on Flickr

Going well this morning i.e. there was a stonking tailwind, going to be rough on the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 26 January, 2016, 09:49:56 am
Slow wet and very windy. I rode the mountain bike today for the extra control, but it did mean I had no real shelter from the headwind. Homeward tonight should be far more fun :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 26 January, 2016, 10:01:55 am
In shorts again. A stiff breeze at 0700 is rapidly turning into a gale now
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 26 January, 2016, 10:06:43 am
I am loving the mild temperatures in the South. Shorts on all day but legs are shot. I need to rest this week and just do the commutes. No Wattbikes or mammoth rides for a week methinks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 26 January, 2016, 10:11:13 am
First Basingstoke - London - Basingstoke commute of the year yesterday.  Pleased that the legs held up turning a gear into the headwind all the way back.  Only started to feel wobbly in the false flat at Hook rather than at the Cote du Jolly Farmer so took that as a good sign.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 26 January, 2016, 07:42:54 pm
Well, today was fun. Came home around midday - into the teeth of a gale and at high tide. A lunchtime high tide means a spring tide - I caught a couple of big waves. Or, rather they caught me. Wet, cold, salty, laced with grit. Usually, I can time my run and miss the breaks but when you're struggling into a headwind you just have to take whatever's coming!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 26 January, 2016, 09:33:40 pm
Quote from: Pancho on 26 January, 2016, 07:42:54 pm
Well, today was fun. Came home around midday - into the teeth of a gale and at high tide. A lunchtime high tide means a spring tide - I caught a couple of big waves. Or, rather they caught me. Wet, cold, salty, laced with grit. Usually, I can time my run and miss the breaks but when you're struggling into a headwind you just have to take whatever's coming!

Are you cyclist or sailor?
 :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 27 January, 2016, 07:45:31 am
Yesterday night on the return from Morris practice (well the pub after practice anyway), riding across the top of the cotswolds through camp, and bisley the wind was horrendous, the rain not much better so much so that I rode down the hill and past the hospital without using my brakes* in an effort to get home quicker I was so wet.

* it's down hill, quite significantly, and also 10 to midnight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 27 January, 2016, 08:31:27 am
So wet! I've lost my knack of keeping dry it seems.

My Aldi gloves (two winters old and cost less than a fiver) are coming adrift at the seams. False economy or just lots of wet winter miles? Not decided.

But I'm more miffed at my Dare2b jacket. It's never worked as a waterproof jacket. Not only is it generally permeable in the manner of breathable things - but the zip isn't sufficiently buffered / layered / waterproof and it just leaks. Pockets seem waterproof - from the inside ; they fill up! And the hood is brimless and shapeless - so doesn't keep rain off face/specs. I'm glad I only paid 30 quid in a sale. But v disappointing - I shall return to my cape.

Finally, overtrousers that get damp inside. Is this leakage? Or condensation? Surely my legs don't sweat that much?

At least my Shimano Winter Boots are perfect. Despite drenching fall angles and regular submersion, feet remain warm and dry.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 27 January, 2016, 08:44:33 am
Quote from: Pancho on 27 January, 2016, 08:31:27 am
Finally, overtrousers that get damp inside. Is this leakage? Or condensation? Surely my legs don't sweat that much?

Waterproof trousers make my legs sweat a lot so I wouldn't be surprised Pancho.

On my commute this morning, the ascent of Quarry Wood Road seemed to start as soon as I left my front door and only finished when I stepped off the bike at work. #knackered
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 27 January, 2016, 02:45:30 pm
A day's training in Ripley yesterday meant a commute in the opposite direction to the norm, and uphill for 6 miles. The tail wind meant that I flew there. The return journey was hellish. I hadn't realised how much of a gradient there was (see "tailwind"), but it was more than cancelled out by the headwind. There were points where - if I'd taken my feet off the pedals - I'd have been going backwards uphill!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 27 January, 2016, 04:02:38 pm
Another day on the mountain bike today. If anything windier than yesterday, and I got wetter. I had to empty the water out of my shoes when I arrived.

As our shower is out of order, I've cranked the heating up in the shower room and it seems to be working as a drying room. Hope so anyway as I need to put that kit back on in an hour. :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 27 January, 2016, 07:39:13 pm
Well that was interesting. Maybe riding along the seaside singletrack between Seascale and Sellafield into the teeth of a gale was probably not my most sensible move I should have worked this out when my bike took off while I was removing it from the bike park.. Resistance training I suppose but 9 km/h while working hard isn't fun.

Also found out there's quite a lot of flood/gale damage at the River Calder end of the path. There's a lot of woody debris on the track, piled high enough to have to lift the bike over and a lot of sand has been moved. In some places it's covered the track, and in others it's been washed out from the mats holding the track together. I don't think I'll be riding along there again for a while unfortunately.

Legs are tired now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 28 January, 2016, 08:12:21 am
Long trousers for the first time this week :( Lovely bright shiny morning with no wind so it was a nice (if somewhat cold) bimble in. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 28 January, 2016, 08:46:49 am
Daylight!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 28 January, 2016, 09:38:32 am
How much nicer it is to ride a road bike and without rain :thumbsup:

Still a bit windy but much better than the last few days :)

Only slight dent in my good ride was the Merc driver who tried to squeeze me on the little bridge instead of moving over. As it's that bridge I'm always a bit on edge.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 28 January, 2016, 11:41:09 am
Bugger! 
I organised something that would require me to commute by train for today.  It could just as easily been tomorrow.

I don't think I could have got that more wrong.  >:(

A beautiful morning today.  Storms forcast for tomorrow.

As I say.  Bugger!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Divingrob on 28 January, 2016, 01:12:01 pm
Was the first day of the sun being in my eyes. Its the time of the year when I feel my most vulnerable on my bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 28 January, 2016, 07:28:51 pm
As if homicidal drivers, and moon crater potholes weren't enough on the commute - this morning I was attacked by a kamikaze rabbit.

Ambled across the road from the right - panicked, leapt and bounced off my knee.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 28 January, 2016, 11:47:29 pm
A play in one act, in the style of Sir Pterry.

Our protagonists:-

Fuzzy (retd.) AAGE, a cycle commuter. (F)
The Villain. A driver. (TV)
Captain Carrot Ironfoundersson, member of The City Watch. (CC)
Captain Delphine Angua von Überwald, member of The City Watch. (CA)
Commander Sir Samuel Vimes. Chief of The City Watch. (CV)
Lord Haverlock Vetinari, Patrician of Akh-Morpork (LV)
Corporal Cecil Wormsborough St John 'Nobby' Nobbs, member of The City Watch (NN)

LV- So Commander Vimes, have you a witness to speak against the accused?
TV- Course 'e aint, I din't do nuffink..
LV- Silence, or I shall think of something........ Interesting to keep you occupied.
TV- 'Snot bloody fair this aint.
CV- Yessir. Mr Fuzzy, late of The City Watch, formerly of Cable Street and Pseudopolis Yard.
LV- Call Mr Fuzzy then
NN- Call Mr Fuzzy!
Numerous fading voices- Call Mr Fuzzy!
The sound of approaching footsteps accross flagstone floor echo through the hall.
LV- Do you swear by The Gods, including The Small, to tell the truth, the whole truth etc.
F- Yessir Mr Patrician Your Lordship Sir
LV (turning pages and speaking under his breath) Fuzzy (retd.) AAGE.... AAGE?
F- All Around Good Egg Mr Patrician Your Lordship Sir
LV- Ah, I see. Well, tell me what happend then Mr Fuzzy.
F- Well Mr Patrician Your Lordship Sir, I was making my way home, by bicycle...
LV- Bicycle?
CV- A two wheeled human powered velocipede Sir
LV- Ahhhh, most ingenious. Pray continue Mr Fuzzy
F- As I said Mr Patrician Your Lordship Sir, I was cycling home along Peach Pie Street, towards Turnwise Broadway when I heard a commotion behind me, approaching at speed. It sounded like a host of dragons being stirred up into a frenzy Mr Patrician Your Lordship Sir. This noise grew rapidly closer and I feared for my safety. Suddenly it was upon me but, to my relief, instead of being slain, the noise passed me by, in a flash of noise and light. I recognised it immediatly Mr Patrician Your Lordship Sir as a Microphallus Romanus Equinus Mr Patrician Your Lordship Sir.
LV- What pray, is a Microphallus Romanus Equinus?
CV- A model of chariot, imported from cough abroad, Sir. A 'sports' chariot, often driven by reckless young members of the upper classes. Or mummers.
F- Exactly Mr Patrician Your Lordship Sir. This chariot was being drawn by a quartet of black prancing horses. It continued at speed along Peach Pie Street for a few seconds when it suddenly started to slow. I saw the sparks from the flailing hooves of the horses Mr Patrician Your Lordship Sir. It stopped just short of Turnwise Broadway.
LV- What caused the cessation of the chariots progress?
F- I'm not certain Mr Patrician Your Lordship Sir but I think itwas the fiendishly visibly parked City Watch Patrol Chariot that I noticed stopped outside the Guild Of Butchers. It took me a little while but as I drew level with the Watch chariot Mr Patrician Your Lordship Sir I saw that it was being used by my former colleagues Captains Carrot and Angua. They had the defendant out of his chariot and were deep in conversation with him. Well, Captain Carrot was. Captain Angua was just smiling at him. That probably explains the smell of loose bowels that I noticed Mr Patrician Your Lordship Sir.
TV- Yeah, bloody City Watch. She got a dangerous look when she smiles.
LV- You just smiled at him Captain Angua?
CA- Yessir. Captain Carrot had the situation under full control. It makes me very happy to see him at work Sir.
F- As I passed them Mr Patrician Your Lordship Sir, I complimented the Captains on their new equipment.
LV- Tell me more Mr Fuzzy.
F- The chariot was one of the new Conspicuous Patrol Chariots Mr Patrician Your Lordship Sir. I had heard of them just prior to my retirement. They have been fitted with the new Cobalt Light Imps and Very Visible paintwork. This includes panels decorated in the style of The Guild Of Bakers chequerboard cake motif that has been speacialy treated with a potion prepared by The Guild Of Alchemists. When light falls on the paintwork it glows like the output of an angry dragon Mr Patrician Your Lordship Sir. I remarked to the Captains as to how I had seen the chariot as I turned into Peach Pie Street from Fetter Lane.
LV- But that must be at least 200 to 300 yards Mr Fuzzy.
F- Exactly Mr Patrician Your Lordship Sir. Very good stuff that Very Visible Paint.
LV- Captain Carrot, what did the defendant have to say for himself?
CC- Not very much Sir. I explained that his conduct represented a grave risk to the citizens of Ankh-Morork and that I would have to deal robustly with him as a deterent to himself and others. When told this, he started to complain that it was an affront to his rights and that he paid his road tax and could do as he pleased.
LV- Road Tax? Road Tax...... hmmmm, theres an idea. Road Tax........ No. That might give individuals liable to pay Road Tax the idea that they own the roads. Can't have that. Cororal Nobbs, take the defendant down to the dungeon. I need to ponder how best to deal with this...............

The End

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 29 January, 2016, 12:08:32 am
POTD
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 29 January, 2016, 12:39:46 am
Bravo, fuzzy. Sir Terry would be proud.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 29 January, 2016, 07:39:47 am
Neat. You've clearly got too much time on your hands and an over-fertile imagination.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 29 January, 2016, 08:39:22 am
Very good fuzzy.

What a stonking tailwind, racing cars and taking turns with the gold Merckx fixie rider, he's quick and makes a big hole in the air since he's always out of the saddle, quite how he sees where he's going with the black shades on I don't know  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tom_e on 29 January, 2016, 09:51:27 am
That was a bit bloody hard work this morning.  Woke up with a sore throat and howling wind the wrong way.  So I engaged the dingle low gear, which isn't really meant for the commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cycleman on 29 January, 2016, 11:08:51 am
Enjoyed that fuzzy  :thumbsup:.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 29 January, 2016, 11:38:37 am
Thank you Fuzzy, enjoyed that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ruthie on 29 January, 2016, 12:03:36 pm
That was brilliant.   ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 29 January, 2016, 09:16:13 pm
I think we're in the territory of AWESOMENESS, Mr AAGE. Nice write-up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 29 January, 2016, 11:50:51 pm
Quote from: hatler on 29 January, 2016, 07:39:47 am
Neat. You've clearly got too much time on your hands and an over-fertile imagination.

I thought he'd retired.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 30 January, 2016, 08:54:00 am
Retired from the city watch but still in employment.

I just hope it wasn't entirely from a fertile imagination and that TVP really did pull an Italian stallion on his commute.

Fuzzy, that sort of post encourages me to have another go at reading disc world novels which I have always struggled with.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 30 January, 2016, 09:12:17 am
Discworld novels are brilliant. I think though (like many tv series) they are much better when  you know the characters - which can be an entry barrier.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Torslanda on 30 January, 2016, 10:12:49 am
Genius, Fuzzy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 30 January, 2016, 06:52:17 pm
Chapeau Fuzzy!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 30 January, 2016, 09:19:12 pm
They really did pull the car over within my view. I don't know what story he span them but I suspect he was let on his way- temporarily. In the Bucks Free Press the following day was this story (http://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/news/14240177.Stolen_Ferrari_tracked_down_by_police_near_motorway/?ref=mr&lp=16)- the car looks identical.

Even more karma ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: falcon on 01 February, 2016, 08:52:43 pm
The smell of cut grass, spring is on its way!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 02 February, 2016, 09:13:38 am
When I am Prime Minister, I am banning winds.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 02 February, 2016, 09:16:38 am
^^ Only headwinds please, I enjoyed my tailwind this morning
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 02 February, 2016, 09:20:47 am
^^ me too but I'm not looking forward to this evening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 02 February, 2016, 09:26:17 am
Audax/commute bike is laid up with a poorly front mech so ventured out on dry roads on the race bike with Nelson Longflap attached.  With that a tailwind in the Stonking First Class category felt that I'd just got on board the Derby favourite rather than a hopeful in a selling hurdle  at Sedgefield and stormed off into London into a totally unreasonable time, deliberately not thinking about the way back.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 02 February, 2016, 09:28:58 am
Windy here in Aberdeen too.
Both yesterday and today was a struggle heading out directly West into it.
Gusts had me almost at a stand-still a couple of times today.

But nice tailwind all the way home last night.
Hopefully same again tonight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 02 February, 2016, 11:43:05 am
No commute but I did cycle to my doctor's appointment (for a bad back!). Got rained on. Doc not surprised that cycling helps the back - I was worried he'd tell me to pack it in. Still no bike parking at doc's.

But happy to see the stands in the village square were full (with some nice bikes). You wouldn't believe (well, being bikies, you probably would) the battle I had to fight to replace one car parking space with a couple of Ye-Olde-Looking-Conservation-Area-Compliant Sheffield stands.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 02 February, 2016, 11:54:39 am
Plodded in with my front disc brake rubbing. It was very annoying and it looks like the only way to sort it is to reset the whole bloody thing!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 02 February, 2016, 08:06:12 pm
A combination of e-bike idiot, bmw and an entrance to the underworld led to this (https://flic.kr/p/CN78Tn)  ::-)

The remaining 10k were interesting
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 02 February, 2016, 08:33:01 pm
I commuted! Notable as it's the first commute since 1st Nov and first bike ride of any kind since 22nd Nov.

Ouch, wasn't too slow (albeit I suspect I was going well) but am a bit sore. Not just the obvious bits like bum and legs but also my hands, wrists, and neck are grumbling mildly.

Still it was damn nice to be back awheel and a lovely evening for it after weeks of crap weather.  :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 02 February, 2016, 08:52:43 pm
Welcome back to the road. Good weather ahead, hopefully.

Hands, wrists, and neck are always the bits that hurt me whenever I ride further than I'm used to.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 02 February, 2016, 08:57:16 pm
Yeah I wouldn't mind if my new(ish) commute were a bit shorter tbh but at least it vaguely follows a train line so I can always bail to a train if I'm really suffering.

I'm debating going electric at some point in the future for a bit more speed, I'm a plodder by nature and what with work and studying I can't afford 2 hours each way that frequently. Hence the massive drop in mileage comparing the first six months of last year with the latter half.

Of course maybe a new bike would help increase my enthusiasm to make time for riding...  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mustgettaller on 02 February, 2016, 10:02:00 pm
Not quite today - yesterday.  ;)

Put in my first extended commute round the villages taking in the dead straight 1 mile climb past Stansted House, total of 12 miles. Oh yes, also nicely into the wind for the last half. Felt good to do it having avoided it for weeks due to crap weather and darkness.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 02 February, 2016, 10:20:09 pm
Quote from: Si S on 02 February, 2016, 08:06:12 pm
A combination of e-bike idiot, bmw and an entrance to the underworld led to this (https://flic.kr/p/CN78Tn)  ::-)

The remaining 10k were interesting

Bugger. That looks terminal for the wheel :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jsabine on 03 February, 2016, 12:17:44 am
Quote from: mcshroom on 02 February, 2016, 10:20:09 pm
Quote from: Si S on 02 February, 2016, 08:06:12 pm
A combination of e-bike idiot, bmw and an entrance to the underworld led to this (https://flic.kr/p/CN78Tn)  ::-)

The remaining 10k were interesting

Bugger. That looks terminal for the wheel :(

Well, pretty dead rim anyway. But it looks low enough spoke count to be a factory wheel, so new rims are probably like unicorn droppings.

I'd probably ride it for a bit if i) I didn't have a suitable spare wheel (or bike), and ii) I was never going to be too far from a bail-out option, as long as I could get it true enough not to bind too badly - after all, it's not going to get much worse - but I'd be ordering new bits fairly sharpish.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 03 February, 2016, 09:11:52 am
The wheel is a DT Swiss, 28 hole, I might be able to get a rim, we'll see in, the meantime it can join the collection of wheels that require fettling - a Bontrager that needs bearings, a Hope that constantly breaks the same spoke (I suspect a flange fault) plus half a dozen or so assorted others, I keep toying with the using them in conjuction with the miles the alu H section I've got to build a pedal train round the garden - I like the idea of riding round the garden shouting Choo Choo, the Mrs is not so keen.

I don't like bringing the new bike in to work since we got kicked out the basement into the cycle shed by the hospital so I transplanted the the saddle and pedals off the Trek onto the Longstaff* , looks the part in that shed, slightly retro with mismatched parts - green frame, red Keo's and a white Arione. I must get this bike sorted properly its a lovely ride. Commute was finished with a shower by bike light.

*still getting me out of trouble jogler

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 03 February, 2016, 09:17:40 am
The other day, I saw an idiot a cyclist on a go cycle electric jobbie going so fast through the London traffic with barely a revolution or two of the pedal that it was just ridiculous. A menace to us all...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 03 February, 2016, 09:27:27 am
I had to bail into the pothole to prevent the overtaking BMW hitting the ebike rider who was trying to overtake me, they both assumed they would out accelerate me across the junction, didn't pan out as expected for them and I get the bill  ::-) The illegal ebikes are a decent challenge and are much better for drafting than their legal brethren, I have no problem with them when ridden sensibly. There's a super cool illegal (I think - its putting out a lot of power if not that much speed) electric fatbike that goes up and down Oxford Road regularly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 03 February, 2016, 10:06:10 am
Yesterday Mrs Stupid decided to try and overtake me (in primary natch) on the approach to a red light, squeezed by with a millimetre and found she couldn't fit into the gap anyway. Then she winds down the window and starts pre-emptively ranting on about 'she'd given me lots of room.' I hadn't even got around to a woeful shake of my head and probably wasn't going to bother because it's not worth it. She also sounded exactly like you'd expect the Daily Mail to sound.

I may have calmly pointed that it's quicker and easier just to say sorry. But oh no, she's not sorry. Not sorry at all. For what, by that point, I was unsure. Fortunately I'd saved that weary shake of my head, because there was no better time.

Thanks also to the Mercedes driver on Brighton Road who decided rather than wait for the last vehicle (i.e. me) to pass so she could reverse out, she'd do it in front of me. My brakes seem to be in good order. The road was clear behind me, she could have pulled out at her leisure if she'd waited an entire second or two.

Idiot cyclists on CS7. Yes, you have the lycra, you're wearing shorts in winter. Bravo. If you pass me that close again, I'll shove that fucking hyperbright light so far up your arse it'll illuminate your tonsils.

Seriously, people step off the pavement (a veritable forest of sorries) and turn into cunts. What's wrong with a bit of courtesy?

The rest of it was fine though. What are they doing to the end of Mitcham Common, a new pavement (cycle path?) seems to be appearing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 03 February, 2016, 01:56:48 pm
I've got a broken spoke! Things just didn't feel "right" and I wondered if some trueing (which I've never fathomed,  really) needed attempting. On inspection it I found it was a bit more than that :(

And despite being a long-in-the tooth cyclist, no idea how fix. In the past I've dropped it off at the LBS for surgery whenever this has happened (about twice in twenty years).

IIRC, I posted here for guidance last time but found the answers to be intimidating. First problem being how to work out what size spoke I'd need to buy. Second problem being how to source a single spoke. Third problem being fitting of spoke. Fourth problem being that trueing thing again.

Am wondering, is a bust spoke rideable? I need to go to work tomorrow - can probably take the shortest of routes and bring the day's total down to 8 miles or so. Or is this just asking for trouble?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 03 February, 2016, 02:11:14 pm
How many spokes ?  I've often cycled to and from work (10 miles) with a bust spoke in a 32 spoke wheel.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 03 February, 2016, 02:30:10 pm
I rode about 130km of an audax on a road bike wheel where one of the NDS rears unscrewed leaving 23 spokes. I also finished a tour round the Highlands last October on 34/36 spokes at the rear. That was with full luggage and riding along the gravel canal towpath next to the Caledonican canal.

I'd bet on you being ok if it's not a really low spke count wheel and you can true it enough to not rub. Might not be the most comfortable ride with the wobble though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 03 February, 2016, 02:31:05 pm
Quote from: Pancho on 03 February, 2016, 01:56:48 pm
First problem being how to work out what size spoke I'd need to buy.

Remove another spoke from the same side of the hub and measure it.  The wheel's already wonky.


Quote
Second problem being how to source a single spoke.

From a bike shop, possibly on the internet.  Buy a couple, as the cost of shipping will dominate and it's good to have a spare.


Quote
Third problem being fitting of spoke.

Feed it through the hole in the hub flange and weave it between the adjacent spokes to reproduce the existing pattern.  May involve alarming amounts of bending.


Quote
Fourth problem being that trueing thing again.

Is the bit that requires a knack.


Quote
Am wondering, is a bust spoke rideable? I need to go to work tomorrow - can probably take the shortest of routes and bring the day's total down to 8 miles or so. Or is this just asking for trouble?

If the rim isn't rubbing the brakes (disc brakes, or you've jibbled the adjacent spoke tensions to compensate), then ostensibly yes.  Certainly as a get-you-home measure.

The problem is the high probability of adjacent spokes also suffering from the fatigue that caused the first one to go, especially now the tensions have all gone to pot.  There's only so many broken spokes you can ride with.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 03 February, 2016, 02:48:24 pm
I've never broken a spoke ever. After ten years, I'm still on the same front rim on my BSO commuter (the back did wear through).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 03 February, 2016, 02:59:55 pm
Fully laden touring seems to be the way to do it IME (and being a big fat lump myself). The road bike one was wierd. The spoke didn't break but just kept unscrewing. I solved it with loctite eventually.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 03 February, 2016, 03:06:59 pm
Once you eliminate the unproven wheelbuilds, BSO factory wheels and chain-vs-spokes incidents, my spoke trouble has nearly all been due to the combination of heavy utility loads and crap road surfaces.

I did have one go on the front of the tourer, possibly due to riding off a kerb (Sustrans + inconsiderate parking), but it's a high spoke count 20" wheel with a disc brake, so I didn't even notice for ages.  On a touring bike it's worth having a couple of spare spokes cable-tied somewhere out of the way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 03 February, 2016, 03:39:18 pm
Thanks for these encouraging and helpful comments.

I did a quick search and found a thread on the issue of "how far can I ride with a broken spoke? (https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=63042.0)".

I've got at least 32 spokes. It may be 36 being hulking touring bike. But it's too chilly for me to go out and count just now!

The limiting factor is the (disc) brakes but I didn't notice any grinding and dragging today so I'll cross fingers for tomorrow. There isn't a huge amount of wobble in the wheel.

Might try dismantling and measuring a spoke on Friday. This is a skill I need to learn.

Which prompts another question. When ordering spokes, where do you measure to and from. There's a curve at one end - do I measure round it to the actual end of the "cylinder"? Or do I measure to the curve - if so where exactly? And at the other end, do I measure to the end or to the start of the threading? A quick look at SJS Cycles suggests that as lengths come in 2mm steps, the measuring probably needs to be millimetre accurate. Here's hoping that a 30cm rule pinched from the office is up to the job.

Many thanks for helpful advice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jsabine on 03 February, 2016, 03:51:49 pm
Measure from the end of the spoke (ie far end of the thread) to the inside of the elbow. 30cm rule ought to be enough - eg a rear NDS spoke on a 36 spoke disc XT hub and an Open Pro, built 3x, is 293mm according to the EDD spoke calculator (https://leonard.io/edd/).

Round down rather than up, look for stainless double-butted (DT Competition, Sapim Race, ACI Alpina are the usual suspects), and if shipping charges are looking silly (which they will, unless you tuck the spokes into another order), I may be able to find a couple of spares ...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 03 February, 2016, 03:59:01 pm
Quote from: jsabine on 03 February, 2016, 03:51:49 pm
look for stainless double-butted (DT Competition, Sapim Race, ACI Alpina are the usual suspects)

Look for stainless of the same gauge/buttedness as the matching spokes.  Otherwise the tension will be different, which will complicate the truing process.

Double (or triple if it's under very heavy load) butted is the best way to go if starting from scratch.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 03 February, 2016, 04:01:21 pm
Quote from: Pancho on 03 February, 2016, 03:39:18 pm

The limiting factor is the (disc) brakes but I didn't notice any grinding and dragging today so I'll cross fingers for tomorrow. There isn't a huge amount of wobble in the wheel.


That's the blessing factor. The worst that can happen is the wheel goes wonky but with discs, it won't affect your braking. With road or v, you can end up with the wheel binding.

Actually the  worst is you bust more, but frankly with a >32 spoke it isn't that likely and I doubt you will do additional damage.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jsabine on 03 February, 2016, 04:04:00 pm
Quote from: Kim on 03 February, 2016, 03:59:01 pm
Quote from: jsabine on 03 February, 2016, 03:51:49 pm
look for stainless double-butted (DT Competition, Sapim Race, ACI Alpina are the usual suspects)

Look for stainless of the same gauge/buttedness as the matching spokes.  Otherwise the tension will be different, which will complicate the truing process.

One spoke needing to be a wee bit tighter won't complicate things that much though ...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 03 February, 2016, 11:01:08 pm
Why yes, I did shout at you because of your blithe cruising out the car park and t-bone SMIDSY attempt.
 
And you did attempt to apologise 50 metres later...

But to do so 10cm from my LHS while I'm performing a 3x rbt R and you're about to transit my exit line was what really got you the tirade of abuse, you utter fucking cockwomble; you're lucky I didn't drag you out and stab your eyeballs with the ignition key. >:(

4-ring circus - you betcha.. ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 04 February, 2016, 07:12:31 am
Well I'm still a bit sore from Tuesday's commute but I am on the train with my bike ready to ride home again this evening.

And I think I've found a new route through Lewes that avoids a steep narrow hill and a fast one way system.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 04 February, 2016, 09:46:02 am
I made it in. Took short route - mucho motor traffic and Not Nice. But well maintained smooth surface; therefore benign for dodgy wheel shy of a spoke and being nursed for a few more miles.

I'll start a new thread in The Knowledge describing my attempt to do the repair myself.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 04 February, 2016, 04:18:23 pm
WFH today to take car in for service. $$  Used the Brompton to get back from and to pick up from. On railway paths almost whole (short) distance, Nice wee change.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 04 February, 2016, 04:46:13 pm
Made it home as well. Definite wonki-ness to ride. Will WFH tomorrow and do some bike surgery.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 04 February, 2016, 06:49:58 pm
Heading down Moss Lane East, circa 17 mph, parked cars, shoulder check, drifting right, look forwards, PEDESTRIAN, try to dive behind him, he steps backwards, WALLOP, we're both lying in the road.

Motorists got out and helped us out of the road, both OK but bruised, apparently he stepped out from between cars without ever looking right, guy hadn't got much English so just a habitual mistake I think

Just a small scratch on one shifter, lucky.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Diver300 on 04 February, 2016, 07:29:26 pm
Today I had an MSIF (Must Stay In Front) event.

The queue of cars was travelling at around 10 mph, and I was going a bit faster on the left. One driver was leaving a significantly larger gap in front of his car as I got near the back of his car, and then he moved just a bit to the left. I backed off and moved to the right, and he accelerated a bit and started to close on the cars in front of him. I moved toward the centre of the road and he moved to the right, only half a metre or so, but quite quickly. I moved right to about a metre from the right kerb and accelerated past him and then several cars in front. He looked at me in a sort of affronted way, as if I had killed someone, or worse, delayed a motorist by breaking some imagined law or other.

Have others seen this sort of behaviour?

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 04 February, 2016, 09:14:04 pm
Quote from: Ashaman42 on 04 February, 2016, 07:12:31 am
Well I'm still a bit sore from Tuesday's commute but I am on the train with my bike ready to ride home again this evening.

And I think I've found a new route through Lewes that avoids a steep narrow hill and a fast one way system.

Well only one wrong turning on testing my new route. It does unfortunately involve a length of cobbles which isn't ideal but it is definitely better than the original route.

I did however cheat and get a train from Berwick, I was flagging a tad but mostly just did not want to ride the section between Berwick and Polegate as there I've got either the choice of riding alongside a busy fast A ride on an unlit, root heaved, pot-holed, narrow pavement for a couple miles or taking a longer (better but out of the way) route that adds a couple extra miles on and still contains a couple nasty junctions and sections of road.

Still 19 miles is better than no miles  :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 05 February, 2016, 10:30:10 am
Nice one in this morning. It was either a tail wind or no wind as it seemed fairly effortless! The alpha jersey shrugged off the nasty drizzle with much aplomb.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 05 February, 2016, 10:37:17 am
Less wind than the last few days so more pleasent. Having a truer rear wheel is far comfier than before and it's getting quite light in the mornings too now :)

Looking at the forecast I'm going to get very wet this afternoon :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 05 February, 2016, 05:47:39 pm
Was a bit headwindy on the way home!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 05 February, 2016, 06:10:29 pm
Quote from: Diver300 on 04 February, 2016, 07:29:26 pm
Today I had an MSIF (Must Stay In Front) event.

The queue of cars was travelling at around 10 mph, and I was going a bit faster on the left. One driver was leaving a significantly larger gap in front of his car as I got near the back of his car, and then he moved just a bit to the left. I backed off and moved to the right, and he accelerated a bit and started to close on the cars in front of him. I moved toward the centre of the road and he moved to the right, only half a metre or so, but quite quickly. I moved right to about a metre from the right kerb and accelerated past him and then several cars in front. He looked at me in a sort of affronted way, as if I had killed someone, or worse, delayed a motorist by breaking some imagined law or other.

Have others seen this sort of behaviour?

Yes, bizarre isn't it?

Mine: there was a double line of cars moving very slowly because of some roadworks. I was cycling slowly up the gap in the middle, when one driver in the right lane decided that was not on, so pulled sharply left, almost touching the car next to him. I nipped round the right, and as the car in front of him moved forward I went into the gap. It took him a couple of seconds to get moving because he was a bit close to the car on his left, but when he did, he put his foot to the floor and hand on the horn. Which was more than a bit silly as I was already in the gap down the middle, so the only way I could have been in his way is if he was intending to drive over the car in front of him.

I turned and raised my eyebrows, and he and his passenger started screaming at me "there's a cycle path over there!!". Err, well yes, but it's closed by the roadworks that are holding us all up. It's not my fault, honestly. Then the gap in front opened up and I cycled off into the distance, leaving them fuming over the supposed injustice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 08 February, 2016, 09:12:24 am
Quote from: Pickled Onion on 05 February, 2016, 06:10:29 pm
Quote from: Diver300 on 04 February, 2016, 07:29:26 pm
Today I had an MSIF (Must Stay In Front) event.

The queue of cars was travelling at around 10 mph, and I was going a bit faster on the left. One driver was leaving a significantly larger gap in front of his car as I got near the back of his car, and then he moved just a bit to the left. I backed off and moved to the right, and he accelerated a bit and started to close on the cars in front of him. I moved toward the centre of the road and he moved to the right, only half a metre or so, but quite quickly. I moved right to about a metre from the right kerb and accelerated past him and then several cars in front. He looked at me in a sort of affronted way, as if I had killed someone, or worse, delayed a motorist by breaking some imagined law or other.

Have others seen this sort of behaviour?

Yes, bizarre isn't it?

Mine: there was a double line of cars moving very slowly because of some roadworks. I was cycling slowly up the gap in the middle, when one driver in the right lane decided that was not on, so pulled sharply left, almost touching the car next to him. I nipped round the right, and as the car in front of him moved forward I went into the gap. It took him a couple of seconds to get moving because he was a bit close to the car on his left, but when he did, he put his foot to the floor and hand on the horn. Which was more than a bit silly as I was already in the gap down the middle, so the only way I could have been in his way is if he was intending to drive over the car in front of him.

I turned and raised my eyebrows, and he and his passenger started screaming at me "there's a cycle path over there!!". Err, well yes, but it's closed by the roadworks that are holding us all up. It's not my fault, honestly. Then the gap in front opened up and I cycled off into the distance, leaving them fuming over the supposed injustice.

Love it :D Twatty thick drivers. Want to stay ahead.... get a bike...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 08 February, 2016, 11:52:42 am
My grate frend Uncle Marvo, the celebrated Aqua-Pikey, was a dab hand, or rather dab foot, at removing car mirrors with a well-placed steel-toecapped boot when petty-minded little scrotes deliberately stopped him filtering aboard The Mighty KAWASAKI.  This was, apparently, very common on the M25 on a Friday evening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 08 February, 2016, 07:16:29 pm
Puncture  2.5 miles before I reached work - a less than comfortable walk in Sidi Dragons :(
Got blown something rotten, on the way home :(
Both beat getting the tube  :thumbsup:

ETA - Deep section rims are a bit like sails in today's conditions  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 February, 2016, 10:16:20 pm
Today was the perfect day to resume commuting.  So I did.  Other than the wind and the rain and my lack of fitness and souplesse, it was fine.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 09 February, 2016, 08:52:07 am
Nice run in this morning. No wind, but it was a bit nippy to start with, but I was sweating cobs by the time I reached Newport.  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 09 February, 2016, 01:50:42 pm
Quote from: Diver300 on 04 February, 2016, 07:29:26 pm
Today I had an MSIF (Must Stay In Front) event.

The queue of cars was travelling at around 10 mph, and I was going a bit faster on the left. One driver was leaving a significantly larger gap in front of his car as I got near the back of his car, and then he moved just a bit to the left. I backed off and moved to the right, and he accelerated a bit and started to close on the cars in front of him. I moved toward the centre of the road and he moved to the right, only half a metre or so, but quite quickly. I moved right to about a metre from the right kerb and accelerated past him and then several cars in front. He looked at me in a sort of affronted way, as if I had killed someone, or worse, delayed a motorist by breaking some imagined law or other.

Have others seen this sort of behaviour?

Rarely, but yes.

Most famously when cycling up the inside of a (2 mile) line of cars coming to a large roundabout on the A52. As I came within 20 yards of the front, the lights having just turned red again, the car now at the front of the left hand lane approaching the line swerved sharply and deliberately to the left to ensure that he was in front of me when the lights turned green (like me he wasn't turning left/taking the first exit).

I asked the driver about it when I saw him later at work. He was a gruff man usually, given to narrowness of mind and singularity of view: characteristics that served him very well as a High Court enforcement officer. Unfortunately for him, I was his senior, and I knew his car. There is no other recorded instance of him apologising to anyone else, ever.

But, these days, many many more cars move over to allow me by than try to impede me. In fact, I can't recall someone deliberately blocking me in years.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 09 February, 2016, 02:46:34 pm
Straight into the wind but it was OK and I took the cycle path was on the pavement as it just seemed safer. Didnt stop people walking on the cycle path straight at me!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 February, 2016, 02:50:20 pm
So I have my bike ready at a station 8km from work.  First day of commuting: Wild wind and rain making navigating an unfamiliar route a little soul-crushing.  And the cancellation of trains because of a bit of roof blowing off London Bridge station meant I got home about three hours after I left work.  But I did it and didn't die.

Today: Meeting in Sidcup.  Uphill from bike's station, but perfectly doable, and, after the meeting, I can ride in to work - another 8km route :thumbsup:

Er, no.  South Eastern are involved.  Train left LBG 15 mins late already, making the meeting time more challenging.  Then, at Hither Green, the driver announced he would be going fast to Crayford :(

When the next train finally arrived, I realised I wasn't going to have time to ride, so decided to go to Sidcup and walk.  No matter, I would be able to get a lift back into work from my colleague.

Couple of minutes late to the surgery (and I hate being late >:( ).

Aaaand my colleague isn't there. :/ 

Conduct the three meetings (chairing and minuting)...colleague still no show.

No problem - I need to walk back to the station, get a train to Dartford & change line to come back in to work.

But actually, I got a lift from the GP I'd been meeting with. 

Still rather have ridden my bike :(

Now sat at my desk wearing bib longs under my work trousers and feeling a bit of a prat. :\

Tomorrow!  Tomorrow we ride! :D :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 09 February, 2016, 03:17:57 pm
No commute for a while for the following reasons :

1. I'm not needed in the office all the time.
2. Delay sourcing spokes means the bike is still clamped in a workstand awaiting attention
3. Still not feeling 100% (probably psychosomatic)

Maybe there should be a fourth reason: unreasonable weather - but I like to think I'd have ploughed through anyway.

Fingers crossed for SJS delivery soon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 10 February, 2016, 09:21:16 am
Bright sunshine and no wind. Wow! Even had to dig my shades out for the first time this year 8)

Looks like hedge mangling season is also upon us however. A cycle path I used today was covered in the amutated flailings. Also at the end of the path T junction I would love to know why the woman driving a 4x4 had to move forwards and block the way for me.  She was waiting in a queueue and there was no reason why me turning across here was going to cause any inconvenience. ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MagnusOpus on 10 February, 2016, 09:29:54 am
had to spin in the last 3 miles on the granny ring as my front mech cable pinged....I think it's rusted in the BB guide....at least the salt on the road won't be there much longer
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 February, 2016, 10:06:36 am
Three days I've been trying to do this mixed-mode commute, and different issues every day!

Of course, South Eastern are not capable of ever running any train on time, so there was that, but I was making good progress when a stone flicked up into my rear mudguard and stuck!  I skidded to a halt, about to take a right turn, then tried to stop the crumpled guard from rubbing.  THE ONLY DAY EVAH that I didn't have tools with me! :o  I had to walk till I saw a garage, where a mechanic helpfully adjusted it to clear.  But I lost a lot of time, so, yet again - late! >:( :(  I try hard to be an ambassador for cycling, but Events seem to conspire. :/
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 11 February, 2016, 09:16:19 am
It was light!!

Partially caused by a later start, but even so,wonderfully chilling cheering.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 11 February, 2016, 09:18:38 am
Oi, that's not fair!

I spent most of my commute riding under my own personal rain cloud while I could see blue skies in all directions ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: trekker12 on 11 February, 2016, 09:51:15 am
Coming off a mini roundabout during the shared part of my commute with Mrs Trekker (who then goes a different way to her work) we were line astern with me behind and aiming for the cycle lane (a 3ft strip of green paint full of potholes on a fairly wide road with a couple of traffic islands up the middle) on the far side of the roundabout which this morning was obstructed by roadworks.

We both took the left side of the road but out far enough to not have to reposition around the roadworks and I heard an engine revving higher than usual for someone leaving a roundabout so it was obvious Mr van driver behind was planning to pass between the roadworks and the traffic island we were now passing. I put my arm out to indicate we were staying in the road and hopefully keep him from ploughing into us.

I'm not sure I'm more annoyed he thought he could fit in the first place or impressed that my signalling actually kept him behind long enough to not plough into either of us.

Naturally he was straight past as soon as we could enter the cycle lane and of course we were right behind him as soon as he had to wait at the next roundabout (partially in the cycle lane but because he was turning left it's OK to do that  :P).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 11 February, 2016, 11:42:18 am
me  :thumbsup:

For the first time since October, when my project manager vetoed cycling to site, I am back in my base office and therefore cycled in.

Boy has 4 months without commuting weakened my legs. what is normally a 26-30 minutes ride took 34. Part of that was a long red phase at one set of lights, part the additional luggage of the laptop, but most was my lack of fitness.  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MagnusOpus on 11 February, 2016, 12:14:43 pm
Yesterday evening was the first time this year out of work and still sort off light.....

Cold crisp fresh air,

Beautiful sky fading pink to blue to purple, a row of cumulus on the horizon bathed orange in the last rays of the sun

A sliver of new moon giving me a cheeky wink

Spring is in the air

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 11 February, 2016, 12:58:18 pm
Playing leapfrog with a Croix de Fer rider this morning, as the traffic slowed to a crawl we were side by side just resolving the game of 'you first' to filter up the inside of the traffic when the 4x4 driver in front decided she'd had enough and threw in into the entrance to Manchester Academy following the MSM approach, that would be manoeuvre, signal, mirror.  ::-)

His quip of 'it's the killing fields round here' made me smile.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 February, 2016, 02:18:34 pm
Frosty!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 February, 2016, 02:41:55 pm
I'm just experiencing the downside to cycle commuting: A day at work is just an annoying interruption in the middle of a bike ride. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: trekker12 on 11 February, 2016, 04:21:57 pm
Quote from: clarion on 11 February, 2016, 02:41:55 pm
I'm just experiencing the downside to cycle commuting: A day at work is just an annoying interruption in the middle of a bike ride. ;D

+1  :)

I have just found out Mrs Trekker is delayed at work so I get to ride home the long way  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Vince on 12 February, 2016, 06:20:54 am
Quote from: clarion on 11 February, 2016, 02:41:55 pm
I'm just experiencing the downside to cycle commuting: A day at work is just an annoying interruption in the middle of a bike ride. ;D
Just think of it as a really long cake stop.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 12 February, 2016, 10:02:32 am
A bit warmer today but seemed there was more ice than yesterday around for me.  Nothing too bad, but the winds come around to an easterly which will bring colder weather (and snow forecast).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 12 February, 2016, 12:20:50 pm
A bit ice-rinky in places this morning  :hand:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 12 February, 2016, 10:39:13 pm
Quote from: clarion on 11 February, 2016, 02:41:55 pm
I'm just experiencing the downside to cycle commuting: A day at work is just an annoying interruption in the middle of a bike ride. ;D

So much so that especially at this time of the year I oftentimes ride back early afternoon and carry on working from home. Much nicer ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 15 February, 2016, 08:24:51 am
Monday is the new Friday for legs it appears so a very slow pootle in, fair amount of ice about too, especially at the locks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 15 February, 2016, 09:16:32 am
I need to reacclimatise having become soft while using a hire car to site. That shouldn't have been either that slow or felt that cold.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris N on 15 February, 2016, 09:23:34 am
Beautiful frosty morning out there - a bit slippy in places but not too bad.  My back brake froze up though, fortunately it froze open.  Really ought to get new pads for the front. :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 15 February, 2016, 09:29:55 am
Spent the ride trying to spot icy patches in the glare of the sun in front. Really wish I'd fitted the ice tyres last night.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MagnusOpus on 15 February, 2016, 11:57:14 am
Full on schadenfreude ride today....

Lovely crisp cold clear morning to be cruising past a roadworks gridlock that was taking about an hour to get through by metal box
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 15 February, 2016, 12:44:05 pm
Talking of schadenfreude, everyone (habitual motorists to a man) in my office is on a weight lossy veg based diet of some sort. I, OTOH, am on my usual cyclist diet ; a doorstep beef sarnie and an intimidatingly large wedge of home made chocolate cake filled and topped with real cream.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 16 February, 2016, 08:58:13 am
Stopped at the top of Upper Chorlton Road a guy was lifting his nice Dawes Clubman and spinning the wheels, have done the same myself earlier after the back brake froze I commented 'I think its just hard work this morning', the reply 'yeah, looking for excuses, none available'  ;D

Very nice to see the old currant bun despite the nagging breeze and the cold.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: falcon on 16 February, 2016, 05:23:39 pm
-4 on the garmin this morning but still managed to get a sweat on, much to my annoyance when realised I'd forgot my towel so damp t shirt to dry off after shower.... nice
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 16 February, 2016, 06:37:04 pm
Not a true commute since I wasn't actually going to work but I did a reccy of what will be my commute when I start my new job* next Monday.
It was quite tough since there was a strong head-wind as I rode up Styal Road. I do the steep, narrow bit before turning off towards Heald Green. It's not going to be a fun route and I'm going to check out the alternatives. Through Didsbury to Cheadle and up Wilmslow Road is the other obvious option. That doesn't look great.

The return, via the outward route, was rather much better since the wind was now behind me. I was looking for a 15th gear going down Styal Road.
I managed to get home just before the rain started  :thumbsup:.
The time for the outward trip was just under what Google Maps had predicted which is pleasing in that head-wind and the fact that I was on the Rohloff bike.

On reflection, I'm only likely to cycle commute when I'm working late shifts. The "earlies" start at 06.00 which will mean leaving home at 04.45 to allow time to get there and get changed at the other end. I'd rather have an extra hour in bed TYVM. Starting at 14.00 (finishing at mid-night  :() won't be so bad since it's much quicker coming home so I'd be back at 0.30(ish).
The round trip is going to be 19 miles and the best bits will be along the River Mersey near home.

I'm looking forward to both the commute and the new job despite the less than inspiring route and not following my "chosen" career path.


*Still driving a van, unfortunately.
**Compared to what I've just been doing.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 16 February, 2016, 06:40:48 pm
Yes. Seriously sub zero early this morning.  I had to tell myself to MTFU.  Other years have been much colder, for weeks on end.
It was just a bit of a shocker in such a mild winter.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Socks on 16 February, 2016, 07:05:22 pm
Nice bit of training on the way home, six miles against a strong, cold headwind.  Not so good were:

- the van driver who was parked at the side of the road and drove off at the same time that I was riding past
- the tosser in a gray hatchback who overtook without leaving enough space so was about six inches away from knocking me off
- and another twat who did the same on the principle of double white lines.  (No overtaking - unless it's a bike, then you overtake anyway but leave even less room than usual).

If things happen in threes I should be OK for the next couple of weeks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 17 February, 2016, 10:06:49 am
No worries about ice today, instead everything's flooded overnight. There was a river running down the hill above that bridge. The fields were all draining onto the road, and the drains had turned into mini fountains as they couldn't cope. Thank you to the driver who carefully picked her way round me so I didn't get splashed :thumbsup:

Then there was a flood on the flat section on top of the hill which was deep enough for my feet to go in. Overshoes held back the water but I'll have to have a look at the submerged pedals this evening. Then after a few smaller floods I came to a deep one with a Merc stranded in the middle of it.

Had to retrace my route and divert onto the main road which had puddles but was passable. Black Beck was looking very brown and angry under the bridge. As much as I dislike that road (busy NSL trunk road) I think I'll be going that way home this evening.

Tonight the temperatures are dropping below zero again, so it's going to be icy fun tomorrow morning! :-\

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 17 February, 2016, 11:00:39 am
Approaching a roundabout where I nearly got taken out a few weeks ago, so observation is turned up to the max.

City Electrical Factors van sitting at the give way line, waiting to enter the roundabout at the three o'clock position. I'm going for the six o'clock.  His phone clamped to his ear. I tell him to get off the fucking phone. He tells me to fuck off. All this via lipreading.  He zooms off down a different road.I feel a grink to the local branch coming on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SoreTween on 17 February, 2016, 07:45:47 pm
It rained.  Boo.  I've been really enjoying the cold mornings and have not taken a direct route in the evening yet, I was tempted to tonight :-(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 17 February, 2016, 08:29:47 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 17 February, 2016, 11:00:39 am
Approaching a roundabout where I nearly got taken out a few weeks ago, so observation is turned up to the max.

City Electrical Factors van sitting at the give way line, waiting to enter the roundabout at the three o'clock position. I'm going for the six o'clock.  His phone clamped to his ear. I tell him to get off the fucking phone. He tells me to fuck off. All this via lipreading.  He zooms off down a different road.I feel a grink to the local branch coming on.
Report.
You know it makes sense.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 18 February, 2016, 08:26:10 am
As a glasses wearer I hate freezing fog.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 18 February, 2016, 09:30:14 am
Hello ice. Studded tyres were definitely being worked today. I'm always unpleasently surprised at how slow and heavy those tyres feel.

Yesterday's flooded road is now a sea of shards of pack ice over a still pretty large puddle, so had to walk that bit. At least it was sunny and calm 8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tom_e on 18 February, 2016, 09:41:32 am
Quote from: mcshroom on 18 February, 2016, 09:30:14 am
Hello ice. Studded tyres were definitely being worked today. I'm always unpleasently surprised at how slow and heavy those tyres feel.

Ah, opposite effect here.  I've been riding the studded tyres for a couple of weeks for various reasons.  Today was the first day on normal tyres for a while.  Egads, it's quiet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 18 February, 2016, 10:50:10 am
Glorious sunshine down here I'm afraid chaps, and half-term, half-term! Makes so much difference doesn't it!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 18 February, 2016, 12:58:13 pm
Sunny here in Aberdeen too, but it was -6 on the ride in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 18 February, 2016, 01:02:19 pm
A lovely ride in today and hopefully the same going home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 19 February, 2016, 07:30:39 am
As I wandered through the gloom to the bike this morning I was gripped with ICE TERROR. Cold mornings never used to bother me but increasing age and several ice related offs have made me a bit nervy. Broken ribs might not be medically serious but it doesn't stop them hurting.

I took the shorter, gritted-er route and combated the ice paranoia with sloth. Good job I did as I found myself on an expanse of dark slipperyness. Tentatively dismounted. And fell over.

Pushed for a couple of hundred meters past this frozen field run off and continued even more cautiously to work.

I BLOODY HATE ICE.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 19 February, 2016, 07:59:48 am
On my way home yesterday, riding south up Peckham Rye east side.  Despite the fact it's part of a cycle route it's can be the worst bit of my ride home. Pinch points all the way up, mean you need to take the lane to avoid getting squeezed uncomfortably into the gutter.  That's easy going north as its downhill.  Going south is harder as its a slight climb all the way. 
   I usually thank drivers who wait patiently behind at the pinch point.  A driver today, slowed down as they drove up behind me, I rode through the pinch point then turned around and waved my thanks as I moved to the left to let them pass.  Strangely, the driver didn't accelerate and speed off as they usually do,  sometimes waving back, sometimes not.  No, this one carried on alongside me, passenger window down, mobile held up in one hand, I guess taking a picture, and shouted, "Get out of the road you f***ing bitch".  The irony of it was that there were 3 cars behind, forced to wait even longer, one of them struggling not to stall, by the sound of it.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 19 February, 2016, 08:26:32 am
Quote from: Pancho on 19 February, 2016, 07:30:39 am
As I wandered through the gloom to the bike this morning I was gripped with ICE TERROR. Cold mornings never used to bother me but increasing age and several ice related offs have made me a bit nervy. Broken ribs might not be medically serious but it doesn't stop them hurting.

I took the shorter, gritted-er route and combated the ice paranoia with sloth. Good job I did as I found myself on an expanse of dark slipperyness. Tentatively dismounted. And fell over.

Pushed for a couple of hundred meters past this frozen field run off and continued even more cautiously to work.

I BLOODY HATE ICE.

You and me both Pancho. I'm neither as young nor as resilient or bouncy as I used to be.

There is a stretch of my commute of about a mile which seems to have it's own micro climate. On many cold mornings roads before and after are dry. Get to this road (Grubwood Lane) and as soon as I turn into it there is evidence of dew on the surface. When frosty, this dew is often black ice. Alternative commute is the A404 Marlow Bypass (f**k that for a game of soldiers!) so, when I spy frost in the mornings I opt for the car. Yup, I'm a f*****g old wuss now :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 19 February, 2016, 08:33:44 am
Plenty of the shiny slippy stuff at the locks this morning, on the plus side the cold air has had a positive effect on the head full of lurgy I woke up with and new cleats with more float seem to eased the niggle I've had in my right knee for a few months now.

Cruising down Moss Lane East (what is it with this road?) a foreign plated people carrier came out of one of the side roads on the wrong side of the road, drove a couple of hundred yards on the right and then turned off still merrily continuing on the wrong side of the road despite the oncoming traffic swerving and horning - that's not going to end well.

At the end every single car in the queue carefully negotiated all the cones, road closed and no left turn signs to turn left, something tells me that closing Oxford Road to private traffic is not going to be as simple as TfGM thinks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 19 February, 2016, 10:17:06 am
Quote from: jane on 19 February, 2016, 07:59:48 am
On my way home yesterday, riding south up Peckham Rye east side.  Despite the fact it's part of a cycle route it's can be the worst bit of my ride home. Pinch points all the way up, mean you need to take the lane to avoid getting squeezed uncomfortably into the gutter.  That's easy going north as its downhill.  Going south is harder as its a slight climb all the way. 
   I usually thank drivers who wait patiently behind at the pinch point.  A driver today, slowed down as they drove up behind me, I rode through the pinch point then turned around and waved my thanks as I moved to the left to let them pass.  Strangely, the driver didn't accelerate and speed off as they usually do,  sometimes waving back, sometimes not.  No, this one carried on alongside me, passenger window down, mobile held up in one hand, I guess taking a picture, and shouted, "Get out of the road you f***ing bitch".  The irony of it was that there were 3 cars behind, forced to wait even longer, one of them struggling not to stall, by the sound of it.

I don't suppose you passed his registration to the Her Majesty's Holders of the Peace. It never fails to faze me that drivers get so angry over the most minor delay. My thoughts on that side of Peckham Rye mirror yours, it'a a pain with the pinch points, worst thing was drivers stuck behind me because no you're not squeezing through, and then the moment they have a millimetre, gunning by using that entire millimetre to avoid my back wheel. I had one of my few runs-ins with a genuine nutter up that way (well, one not driving a black cab anyway), someone pulled out in front of me by the Ivy House (well, he stopped and then pulled out deliberately when I was in front of him for added ho-hos). On the phone, of course. Started having a barny about 'do you think I didn't see you, do you think I didn't see you,' over and over (still with the phone jammed to his ear) and then offering to fight me. I didn't fancy it to be honest, I rarely like to fight before lunchtime, so I made a quick getaway down the path through Peckham Rye. He wasn't quite mad enough to follow me, though I did wonder. I think he had bigger issues than just his driving.

You have no idea how much liquid snot drained out my nose on my ride all the way home last night. Gallons of the stuff. Yet my left ear is still blocked. Bah.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 19 February, 2016, 06:27:02 pm
First lambs of the year.
Poulton fields as is usually the case. 
Two or three weeks earlier than last year.
Not newborns though, mebbe a week old.

Not cycling if icy? Oh yes.  I refer the house to my post of the the 15th of Jan.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 19 February, 2016, 06:29:16 pm
TMI Ian!  Although feeling sorry for you.  Sounds like you should be tucked up in the warm, not riding around in the freezing cold, albeit beautiful,sunny day.  After yesterday's fun and games, I had a great commute home.  Finished early, so stopped at the great little Fowlds cafe on the edge of Addington Square for a lovely coffee.  Then just pootled home spending as much time as I could in parks under the blue sky and sun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 19 February, 2016, 06:46:43 pm
I've been a bit meh this week, so I've used the train to get to work (H&S training - so it wouldn't do to miss it - I did ask the question 'who'd like my (suspect) norovirus infection?' 'Stay at home mate, until it is all over' came the reply)
Anyway - yesterday, I caught 5 (yes, five) trains to cover the ~15 or so miles between SE Londres and Walthamstow.
Is that a record?
Am I eligible for any sort of reward/compensation?
What chain of events led to this happening?
What control measures can be put into place to prevent this from happening again?
You can tell I've been on a H&S course, can't you?
ETA - so the above aren't in the correct order.......
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 19 February, 2016, 08:22:44 pm
How did you manage that?  You can get the ginger line to Highbury and Islington then the Victoria line to Walthamstow.  Two trains max. 
   Might need to pick your brains, Jurek, on a good route (by bike) to those parts of north east London...will be cycle training in a school in Woodford Green for a couple of days soon.  Last time I commuted to anywhere near that area of London was nearly forty years ago when I lived in Clapham and worked in Markhouse Rd.  Used to ride all the main roads via London Bridge back then.  Thinking that route won't work now I'm further east.  Thinking of using the foot tunnel. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 19 February, 2016, 08:39:41 pm
Quote from: jane on 19 February, 2016, 08:22:44 pm
How did you manage that?  You can get the ginger line to Highbury and Islington then the Victoria line to Walthamstow.  Two trains max. 
   Might need to pick your brains, Jurek, on a good route (by bike) to those parts of north east London...will be cycle training in a school in Woodford Green for a couple of days soon.  Last time I commuted to anywhere near that area of London was nearly forty years ago when I lived in Clapham and worked in Markhouse Rd.  Used to ride all the main roads via London Bridge back then.  Thinking that route won't work now I'm further east.  Thinking of using the foot tunnel.
Indeed, but Ginger line is currently out of commission between Highbury & Shadwell, due to Crossrail works, so not a 2 train option.
(The alternative is Southern to LBG, Northern line to KGX and Vicky line to Blackhorse Lane. It doesn't take that much (if at all) longer than the 2 train version.)
Until you get to NXG and they tell you there's a security incident at LBG and this train is terminating here....
Then you're on you'r own....
Hence the 5 trains.
Surprisingly, it made me little more than 10 minutes late.....
Happy to discuss road routes to that neck of the woods.
I'm mostly around this weekend, if you wanted to hook up for breakfast, or something.


ETA - Failing which, I'll endeavour to email you a Bike-hike plot of my route to work - you may need to figure out the last 2 or 3 miles for yourself, as I don't go as far as Wood Green.


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 19 February, 2016, 10:30:28 pm
This morning the southernmost part of Cavendish Road, just north of Tooting Bec Common was closed of for resurfacing, and this afternoon it was still closed off, but finished aside from the road markings, which they had started.

A large section of Cavendish Road was resurfaced some months ago, but for some reason they stopped before completing some of the worst sections, but they seem to have got back to it now.

On some of my commuting route, places which were worked on after the larger part of Cavendish Road was resurfaced, are already degrading, which says something about how poor some road resurfacing can be. >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 19 February, 2016, 11:12:05 pm
Great ride into work, some small patches of ice, but dry bright and bracing. Took a meandering route in. Return into strong headwind, in the dark, with showers coming through.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 19 February, 2016, 11:56:27 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 19 February, 2016, 08:39:41 pm
Quote from: jane on 19 February, 2016, 08:22:44 pm
How did you manage that?  You can get the ginger line to Highbury and Islington then the Victoria line to Walthamstow.  Two trains max. 
   Might need to pick your brains, Jurek, on a good route (by bike) to those parts of north east London...will be cycle training in a school in Woodford Green for a couple of days soon.  Last time I commuted to anywhere near that area of London was nearly forty years ago when I lived in Clapham and worked in Markhouse Rd.  Used to ride all the main roads via London Bridge back then.  Thinking that route won't work now I'm further east.  Thinking of using the foot tunnel.
Indeed, but Ginger line is currently out of commission between Highbury & Shadwell, due to Crossrail works, so not a 2 train option.
(The alternative is Southern to LBG, Northern line to KGX and Vicky line to Blackhorse Lane. It doesn't take that much (if at all) longer than the 2 train version.)
Until you get to NXG and they tell you there's a security incident at LBG and this train is terminating here....
Then you're on you'r own....
Hence the 5 trains.
Surprisingly, it made me little more than 10 minutes late.....
Happy to discuss road routes to that neck of the woods.
I'm mostly around this weekend, if you wanted to hook up for breakfast, or something.


ETA - Failing which, I'll endeavour to email you a Bike-hike plot of my route to work - you may need to figure out the last 2 or 3 miles for yourself, as I don't go as far as Wood Green.

....or indeed a cuppa chez moi if you are in need of restoration, you will likely pass close, I'm working from home a lot these days.

Happy to help with routes, if you can get yourself this side of the river, it's my manor.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 20 February, 2016, 02:47:14 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 19 February, 2016, 08:39:41 pm
ETA - Failing which, I'll endeavour to email you a Bike-hike plot of my route to work - you may need to figure out the last 2 or 3 miles for yourself, as I don't go as far as Wood Green.

Er, it's Woodford Green Jane's going to, not "the place that makes ["The Death of the Soul" - Mr Sunshine] look like Hawaii".  I used either to go up the Leytonstone High Road and through South Woodford or up the Lea Bridge Road and over the A406 at the Waterworks roundabout, but that was a long time ago and neither is particularly appealing these days.  Unfortunately Woodford Green is on top of a mountain.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 20 February, 2016, 09:19:53 pm
Mountain? Really?  Good job I'm getting a premium rate for the day.  Seems they didn't have any local cycle trainers available and no one on the books wanted to go that far out of London "proper". 
Thanks for the offer, Ham.  May well be in touch later.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 21 February, 2016, 03:25:09 am
Actually the gradient isn't too bad from north or south but it's on top of the ridge between the Roding and Lea valleys so it's a bit more of a grind from east or west.

<=== Lived in Whitehall Road in the late 1980s.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 21 February, 2016, 09:10:07 am
That'll teach me to read properly - the first time around.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 22 February, 2016, 11:46:40 am
That was so much easier once I had pumped my tyres up over the weekend!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 22 February, 2016, 12:01:48 pm
Friendly van driver let us out (turning right, minor to major) in very densely packed traffic.  Set off and get odd noises and strange feeling on pedalling... SmallestCub looks down and says "I think something is really wrong with our chain!".

Dear Reader, the Stoker was (naturally) quite correct. Nearer to home than school so we took the bike back and walked instead and he was somewhat late for registration...

ETA now with pics!
(https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xaf1/v/t1.0-9/1936344_10153806061046839_1571596787755249104_n.jpg?oh=8c9237a1d874097b2a2a84a9e9ab5ef6&oe=576A6142)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 22 February, 2016, 01:57:54 pm
Crinkly, Was that the timing or drive chain?

My personal best for that was uphill off a set of traffic lights in lane 2 of 3 onto a roundabout! Suffice to say I wobbled to a stop with the chain lying in the road behind me.

I ended up walking the rest of the way to work and then taking out the offending link at the end of the day so I could ride home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 22 February, 2016, 02:42:50 pm
Ours rather than his so yes, the timing chain :)

And it's not payday 'til Monday.  Bah.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 22 February, 2016, 04:23:57 pm
Ahh, subtlety of language beyond my expectation.  :facepalm:

Surely to get to school on time all you had to do was remove the offending chain and make him pedal harder :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 22 February, 2016, 04:42:13 pm
Hard work today for no comprehensible reason.

Have come up with a plan to keep the miles in during my time on the scrapheap of employment (starts Thursday). I'll cycle to the shops / market everyday.

Five little pannier sized shops rather than one weekly biggie done with a c*r. Aldi is a little further than work, the greengrocer and butcher much closer, and the dockside fishmonger much further. Should average out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 22 February, 2016, 04:57:46 pm
Quote from: matthew on 22 February, 2016, 04:23:57 pm
Surely to get to school on time all you had to do was remove the offending chain and make him pedal harder :demon:

She'd have had to stay there until hometime, thobut.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 22 February, 2016, 05:18:13 pm
Quote from: matthew on 22 February, 2016, 01:57:54 pm
My personal best for that was uphill off a set of traffic lights in lane 2 of 3 onto a roundabout! Suffice to say I wobbled to a stop with the chain lying in the road behind me.

At BHPC race meetings it is traditional fir onlookers to cry "SNAKE!!  SNAKE!!" when this happens.  I'm sure this is why Mike Burrows' race bike has its entire drive system hidden from the vulgar gaze of the public (though it does mean a workshop job if the chain comes off).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 23 February, 2016, 09:00:35 am
Gorgeous morning. Sunshine the whole (long) way in this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 23 February, 2016, 09:42:40 am
Crowded, crushed, knees brief case bruised, feet stiletto stabbed.
Had to take the hire car back this morning so ended up on the train.   :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 23 February, 2016, 10:14:47 am
Lovely pootle over to Condor to take the fratello in for a service (and to have the handlebars and tape replaced after I did a somersault...). The sun was shining and I was taking it easy, so all was good in the world!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 23 February, 2016, 10:37:38 am
Beautiful morning for a ride, may also have had something to do with no laptop so less weight and therefore back to my normal commuting tempo.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cycleman on 23 February, 2016, 06:35:29 pm
32miles with Jonathan notp ☺ . out to cookham s Costa .then Bourne end and over the hill to Burnham ,Windsor and back to Slough ☺. Sunny most of the day apart from a 5 minute hail shower near cookham .
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 23 February, 2016, 07:02:30 pm
Decided to take the NCN route home. After walking round the gravelly pothole infested flood I came across this, caused by the contractors doing survey work for the new power station build.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YXaNC2KyztM/VsysC0vdexI/AAAAAAAALg8/ch583ydcGUM/s640-Ic42/20160223_173405.jpg)

More than rim deep and Very slippery, especially on a road bike. Maybe not the best route at the moment.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 23 February, 2016, 07:51:35 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 23 February, 2016, 07:02:30 pm
Decided to take the NCN route home. After walking round the gravelly pothole infested flood I came across this, caused by the contractors doing survey work for the new power station build.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YXaNC2KyztM/VsysC0vdexI/AAAAAAAALg8/ch583ydcGUM/s640-Ic42/20160223_173405.jpg)

They're never going to be able to build a power station in that.  Not unless someone's worked out how to extract energy from mud.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 23 February, 2016, 10:21:53 pm
Geothermal, innit?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 23 February, 2016, 10:36:51 pm
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 23 February, 2016, 10:21:53 pm
Geothermal, innit?
If it is then it's not very good, I was freezing on the way home :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 24 February, 2016, 10:17:14 am
Beard frost!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 24 February, 2016, 11:23:49 am
Bright sun, crisp frost and I was running late so got caught up in the school run.

Lots of drivers looking to park, queuing for junctions / traffic lights and some who didn't know the width of their X5.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 24 February, 2016, 12:19:18 pm
Postponed penultimate commute until 1100 because of ICE. I've become paranoid about injury. Being laid up on company time is one thing but spending your own time in sick bay is another.

Warm and pleasant when I set off but missed the rose red fingers of dawn.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 24 February, 2016, 01:00:06 pm
Good luck tomorrow (?) with the last one. Make it a good 'un.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 24 February, 2016, 01:22:13 pm
Having taken a day off yesterday, I missed that they resurfaced Queenstown Road, from Ravenet Street (https://goo.gl/maps/yvmmELw9AN42) northwards.  That's removed virtually all of the old potholes from my commute.  There's still a bunch on the B242 (Garard's Road & Bedford Hill) around the edge of Tooting Bec Common, but the councils appear to have been going out of their way to avoid doing anything about those for quite a few years, so I'm not hopeful about those being repaired any time soon.

It's always nice to have a nice shiny slick bit of road to use, for the short time before one of the utilities manages to replace it with a poorly repaired hole.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 24 February, 2016, 01:35:54 pm
Quote from: TimO on 24 February, 2016, 01:22:13 pm
Having taken a day off yesterday, I missed that they resurfaced Queenstown Road, from Ravenet Street (https://goo.gl/maps/yvmmELw9AN42) northwards.  That's removed virtually all of the old potholes from my commute.  There's still a bunch on the B242 (Garard's Road & Bedford Hill) around the edge of Tooting Bec Common, but the councils appear to have been going out of their way to avoid doing anything about those for quite a few years, so I'm not hopeful about those being repaired any time soon.

It's always nice to have a nice shiny slick bit of road to use, for the short time before one of the utilities manages to replace it with a poorly repaired hole.

Its lovely, isn't it? They must have done it at some point between yesterday (when I cycled on there) and two weeks before, my last commute. It was nice and clear this morning as well, no buses etc in the way! ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 24 February, 2016, 01:44:49 pm
Quote from: menthel on 24 February, 2016, 01:35:54 pm
Its lovely, isn't it? They must have done it at some point between yesterday (when I cycled on there) and two weeks before, my last commute. It was nice and clear this morning as well, no buses etc in the way! ;)

It was done sometime after Tuesday evening and this morning, although spectacularly fast compared to some resurfacing work.

Clear was not the phrase I'd use, there was fairly solid traffic from halfway down Cedars Road to Chelsea Bridge, not that it delayed me much, and I was being far more careful than the usual suicidal commuter cyclists.

I don't quite understand why people drive down that road at that time, since there's almost always long queues.  The traffic levels aren't surprising, and yet you still see people trying to U-turn out of the traffic, presumably with the expectation that traffic approaching one of the other bridges will be easier (it won't be).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 24 February, 2016, 03:19:22 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 23 February, 2016, 07:02:30 pm
Decided to take the NCN route home. After walking round the gravelly pothole infested flood I came across this, caused by the contractors doing survey work for the new power station build.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YXaNC2KyztM/VsysC0vdexI/AAAAAAAALg8/ch583ydcGUM/s640-Ic42/20160223_173405.jpg)

More than rim deep and Very slippery, especially on a road bike. Maybe not the best route at the moment.

Update - I have had an apology from NuGen's* 'Operations and Engagement Manager', and they have told the contractor running the site to clean it up. I'd have preferred quicker than 'by the end of the week', but a pretty good response all in all.

*The consortium wanting to build the new nuclear power station on that field
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 24 February, 2016, 03:39:03 pm
Quote from: TimO on 24 February, 2016, 01:44:49 pm
Quote from: menthel on 24 February, 2016, 01:35:54 pm
Its lovely, isn't it? They must have done it at some point between yesterday (when I cycled on there) and two weeks before, my last commute. It was nice and clear this morning as well, no buses etc in the way! ;)

It was done sometime after Tuesday evening and this morning, although spectacularly fast compared to some resurfacing work.

Clear was not the phrase I'd use, there was fairly solid traffic from halfway down Cedars Road to Chelsea Bridge, not that it delayed me much, and I was being far more careful than the usual suicidal commuter cyclists.

I don't quite understand why people drive down that road at that time, since there's almost always long queues.  The traffic levels aren't surprising, and yet you still see people trying to U-turn out of the traffic, presumably with the expectation that traffic approaching one of the other bridges will be easier (it won't be).

Perhaps clear is relative- when I went down there it was substantially clearer than usual and I didn't have to divert onto the cycle path on the pavement under the bridge. The Chelsea Bridge roundabout was not in good shape though!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 24 February, 2016, 04:04:41 pm
Quote from: menthel on 24 February, 2016, 03:39:03 pm
Perhaps clear is relative- when I went down there it was substantially clearer than usual and I didn't have to divert onto the cycle path on the pavement under the bridge. The Chelsea Bridge roundabout was not in good shape though!

If I can manage to get myself up and leave home before 5-45, I'll get to that point at around 6-30, and be there will probably be less than a dozen cars waiting at the junction.  That's clear. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 24 February, 2016, 05:24:01 pm
Quote from: TimO on 24 February, 2016, 04:04:41 pm
Quote from: menthel on 24 February, 2016, 03:39:03 pm
Perhaps clear is relative- when I went down there it was substantially clearer than usual and I didn't have to divert onto the cycle path on the pavement under the bridge. The Chelsea Bridge roundabout was not in good shape though!

If I can manage to get myself up and leave home before 5-45, I'll get to that point at around 6-30, and be there will probably be less than a dozen cars waiting at the junction.  That's clear. :)

You are far more diligent than me! I probably got there at about 9.15 this morning! ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 24 February, 2016, 05:30:57 pm
Quote from: hatler on 24 February, 2016, 01:00:06 pm
Good luck tomorrow (?) with the last one. Make it a good 'un.

Yup. Tomorrow's It. All I have to go in for is to hand over passes, computer, phones, etc and do an exit interview (presumably, this is "overboarding" - the opposite of "onboarding" new starts). Cleared my desk today (surprised at how many emergency socks and shirts have accumulated in the drawers!). It's horrible.

Still, weather looks good for a last day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 24 February, 2016, 06:02:03 pm
Hope you get a good last ride tomorrow, Pancho.
My last commute ever will be on 23rd March.  It seems to be getting closer very quickly.
I've already started thinning out the emergency socks, shirt (threw that in the bin), inner tubes, naff old pump, random tools etc.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 24 February, 2016, 06:55:25 pm
Quote from: Pancho on 24 February, 2016, 05:30:57 pm
Quote from: hatler on 24 February, 2016, 01:00:06 pm
Good luck tomorrow (?) with the last one. Make it a good 'un.

Yup. Tomorrow's It. All I have to go in for is to hand over passes, computer, phones, etc and do an exit interview (presumably, this is "overboarding" - the opposite of "onboarding" new starts). Cleared my desk today (surprised at how many emergency socks and shirts have accumulated in the drawers!). It's horrible.

Still, weather looks good for a last day.
I know exactly how you feel. Not nice. There is however the most overwhelming sense of weight disappearing from your shoulders as you walk out of the door.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 24 February, 2016, 11:11:57 pm
2nd sunny morning commute in a row today. As good as summer was. 
Not that much colder either  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 24 February, 2016, 11:12:21 pm
Quote from: TimO on 24 February, 2016, 01:22:13 pm
... I missed that they resurfaced Queenstown Road, from Ravenet Street (https://goo.gl/maps/yvmmELw9AN42) northwards. ...

On the way back, this evening, they're doing the southbound side now, which meant that I cycled back on the same tarmac as I cycled in on, rather unusually!

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/small.php?size=640&file=20160224_2130ish_QueenstownRoadResurfacing.jpg) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/20160224_2130ish_QueenstownRoadResurfacing.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 25 February, 2016, 04:47:29 pm
mmm, Fatbike - bloody spacehopper with pedals, innit :)

Boing Boing, home James.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 25 February, 2016, 07:52:25 pm
Just for a change didn't get held up crossing Ciren. on the way home and no wind (head or tail).  Averaged 17 and twiddle mph door to door which rather pleased me as I was beginning to think that 15mph was the new normal with my ageing legs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 26 February, 2016, 09:08:15 am
Playing with new routes this morn: looking for longer way into work in the good weather or when I'm early, I went round some nice roads around Ratho but the short bit I did on the main A71 reminds me this is one to avoid. Very busy, but only had 1 too close pass, from an Audi Q5 with bike racks on the roof.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 26 February, 2016, 09:48:51 am
Quote from: hatler on 24 February, 2016, 06:55:25 pm
Quote from: Pancho on 24 February, 2016, 05:30:57 pm
Quote from: hatler on 24 February, 2016, 01:00:06 pm
Good luck tomorrow (?) with the last one. Make it a good 'un.

Yup. Tomorrow's It. All I have to go in for is to hand over passes, computer, phones, etc and do an exit interview (presumably, this is "overboarding" - the opposite of "onboarding" new starts). Cleared my desk today (surprised at how many emergency socks and shirts have accumulated in the drawers!). It's horrible.

Still, weather looks good for a last day.
I know exactly how you feel. Not nice. There is however the most overwhelming sense of weight disappearing from your shoulders as you walk out of the door.

I didn't quite believe you when I read this on Wednesday. But as I rode home yesterday I thought, "that hatler bloke's spot on - for the first time in my adult life, I have absolutely nothing that needs to be done." And right now, I feel relaxed to a degree I've not experienced before without the aid of opiates.

Yesterday, as new owner of time, I took a long route home. It was mid-afternoon so had benign traffic to go with the glorious weather. Loved every minute.

I hope not to resign from this thread. I plan to report my utility rides here. However, it's not quite the same is it? The unique aspect of commuting is that everyday at 0600 you have to get out the door and go - regardless of storms, ice, and darkness and ignoring tiredness, minor injuries, and overwhelming "can't be arsed".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 26 February, 2016, 04:20:15 pm
I reckon any utility ride where you have to be somewhere at a certain time counts - doesn't have to be for work.  The school run is the canonical example, but no reason it shouldn't apply to any kind of scheduled thing.

(It's a bugbear of mine that cycle campaigners tend to equate "utility cycling" with "commuting to work", and overlook things like children and luggage.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 26 February, 2016, 04:56:02 pm
I disagree. Commute is a trip to work or school run. Other rides, shopping, trips to dump, returning library books (does anyone still do this?) etc are different.

I would want to exclude anyone from this thread though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 26 February, 2016, 04:57:47 pm
Quote from: Kim on 26 February, 2016, 04:20:15 pm
I reckon any utility ride where you have to be somewhere at a certain time counts - doesn't have to be for work.  The school run is the canonical example, but no reason it shouldn't apply to any kind of scheduled thing.

The only item in my diary over the next week month year, er, at all for which I need to be somewhere at a certain time is Long Itch!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 26 February, 2016, 05:19:33 pm
Quote from: sg37409 on 26 February, 2016, 04:56:02 pm
I disagree. Commute is a trip to work or school run. Other rides, shopping, trips to dump, returning library books (does anyone still do this?) etc are different.

I don't think that's disagreement, as I specifically referred to being somewhere for a certain time.  So a visit to a customer's site counts.  Or a medical appointment.  But not doing your shopping or returning library books (unless perhaps you're a peripatetic librarian).

To me it's about having to get out and ride regardless, with a side order of being not-in-bike-mode at the other end.

(I agree these don't meet the dictionary definition of 'commute', but they surely mean the same sort of thing in cycling terms, and this thread would seem appropriate.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 26 February, 2016, 05:21:40 pm
Which shows Kim's point is too general. Utility riding is when the point of the ride is to get somewhere to do a task. I think it would include deliveries and collections of stuff and it certainly includes the school run, as well as shopping, going to the cinema, etc etc. But it wouldn't include Long Itch because there the ride is rather the point in itself.

Commuting is a specific type of utility journey. I don't think it absolutely has to be to work, it could be to school for instance, but it has to be a regular, repeated journey where the aim is to get somewhere for some work-like purpose.

Edit: Visit to customer's site or medical purposes would definitely be utility and the first is business riding, but neither are commuting IMO.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 26 February, 2016, 05:27:05 pm
I suppose it comes down to whether it's the regularity or the drudgery that's the defining aspect...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 26 February, 2016, 05:38:15 pm
Quote
But it wouldn't include Long Itch because there the ride is rather the point in itself.

I can stretch "utility" to include the Long Itch trip as, in my case, the point is to socialise a bit. I don't enjoy camping and, after 30 miles, I don't enjoy cycling much either. Thinking about it, the two days and 130 miles to simply get there is probably best defined as purgatory rather than utility.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 26 February, 2016, 06:24:11 pm
Perhaps you'd best look into a train to cover part of the journey.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 26 February, 2016, 08:05:46 pm
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 26 February, 2016, 06:24:11 pm
Perhaps you'd best look into a train to cover part of the journey.

That would be CrossCountry.  If a couple of days of cycle camping is purgatory, then CrossCountry trains are...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 26 February, 2016, 08:25:50 pm
I don't mean a train the whole way. For instance, GWR and SWT run trains direct from Portsmouth to Westbury or Bath, and SWT go direct to Basingstoke. Both cut off 60-odd miles in a roughly northerly direction and neither involve dangly bike spaces.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 26 February, 2016, 08:31:47 pm
Not sure that Amazingstoke is really an improvement on purgatory either, tbh, but it's a thought...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 26 February, 2016, 09:27:56 pm
Suggest we move the Long Itch chat to the Long Itch thread and leave the line clear here for discussion of daily drudgery!

I've posted my proposed route there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: dave r on 29 February, 2016, 08:14:44 am
Quote from: sg37409 on 26 February, 2016, 04:56:02 pm
I disagree. Commute is a trip to work or school run. Other rides, shopping, trips to dump, returning library books (does anyone still do this?) etc are different.

I would want to exclude anyone from this thread though.

Perhaps we need a new thread on here like the tales from todays Utility ride thread on cycle chat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 29 February, 2016, 09:32:15 am
Back to commuting. Heavy legs this morning meant I almost didn't make it up Thornhill;  it's clouded over again and the wind's strengthened and turned round so it was in my face. At least that will be a tail wind this evening.

The flooded road is still flooded, even after 4 dry days, though there's now islands in the pond. Looking at the forecast it's going to get topped up again while I'm riding home this evening. As I'm going the longer way home, I'll also get to see if the mud has been removed from NCN72 as promised last week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 29 February, 2016, 09:40:38 am
Lovely morning out there for the trip into work but my timing of peak rush (I have been leaving later recently) meant that certain parts were rather gridlocked. Less of a problem on a bike but more of an issue now that I use panniers rather than a rucksack.

I might go home with a lap of Richmond Park this evening- mixed commuting and leisure! ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 29 February, 2016, 10:43:51 am
A 5C, little wind or traffic, nice and sunny 15km this morning.  Doesn't get much better (for a commute).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Clare on 29 February, 2016, 10:46:43 am
Everything was looking a bit meh today with cars edging into the cycle lane for no reason and numpties being unable to edge past a bus in their super hyooooge hatchbacks, then it all ground to a halt and I pedalled past the queue to the stationary car at the front. A quick 'Oi, mate!' got the driver's attention and he stopped texting. The lights had gone red by then so I was nicely at the front of the queue, got a polite acknowledgement from texty-man and then played chase with a lovely Francis Barnet all the way to work.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 29 February, 2016, 11:00:05 am
I had a SMIDSY from another cyclist! Apparently he looked but didn't see me despite there was nothing around me that could have blocked his vision, so some sharp brakin' and words were had.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonBuoy on 29 February, 2016, 01:02:07 pm
Minus 4 this morning.  Not a good day to misplace my balaclava.  Multiple buffs to the rescue!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 29 February, 2016, 06:57:27 pm
Lovely poodle via the park. 30 rather than 13k. Got to start somewhere!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 29 February, 2016, 10:48:00 pm
My first set of early shifts in the new job so I rode in.
There was the same headwind on the way past the airport going up Styal Road as there had been on my reccy. Unfortunately I have to go up the steeper, narrow bit of Styal Road and I turn off just as it widens and the gradient eases ............
Unlike on the "dummy" commute, I managed to cut one corner so I saved a few hundred metres and it looks like further diagonals could shave more off the ride and introduce some quieter roads as well.
The best part of the route is the start/end along the bank of the Mersey and through Kenworthy Woods.

My "trainer" and I managed to get our run finished early so we were free to go when we got back to base. Happy days although I'd have been happier if it hadn't been raining. Still, it wasn't too bad and that's what waterproofs are for.
It was rather muddy along the river and through the woods.

If it's not raining when I need to set off tomorrow, I'll ride in. If it is raining, I'll drive. Probably ;).

My new "short-cut" has dropped the distance to just under 19 miles for the round trip.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 29 February, 2016, 11:24:38 pm
The tandem is fixed! Huzzah!  The school run is much quicker wivva bike :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 29 February, 2016, 11:40:58 pm
:thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cycleman on 01 March, 2016, 08:42:28 am
Great  :thumbsup: happy riding crinkly lion +cubs  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 01 March, 2016, 09:06:17 am
Fv<ked up this morning, managed to pull out in front of a bus (who was going for 3rd exit rather than 2nd which I'd expected) on the PC World rdbt at Corstorphine. Not *real* close but enough to give me a fright and realise I've probably not been paying enough attention at tons of junctions recently.   :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 01 March, 2016, 09:16:35 am
Too hot this morning as I was dressed for yesterday's frost not today's drizzle.

Plenty of stationary traffic which is unusual for my route to work and then a couple of shrugs of apology as drivers realised they shouldn't have done what they just did.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 01 March, 2016, 09:20:02 am
Overdressed but pleasant pootle in taking into account the greasy conditions. I swear there was a tailwind this morning...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SoreTween on 01 March, 2016, 10:07:45 am
Eventful morning.
First a car shot across the pavement from a driveway stopping 3" into the road with perfect timing to cause me a sphincter wobble. A toddler running on the pavement would have been launched or squished. Female driver, semi - detached black Audi.
Next as I'm approaching a right turn just out of sight round a blind bend I hear the engine behind me start to rise. I stuck my arm out earlier than I usually do, checked my shoulder and moved to the middle of the lane.
Just round the corner there's a oncoming car moving out to pass a cyclist, well over the centre line and approaching that blind bend that's now behind me. It drops back on seeing me. I'm still signalling right and move fully over. Oncoming car decides she can squeeze between myself and the oncoming cyclist after all and goes for it. She was right, her dark rag top Audi did fit but only because as I skidded to a halt I moved left a foot and the other cyclist went in the fairie zone.
So there I am slewed slightly sideways and stopped drawing a deep breath for a long reading from the profanisaurus when I'm interrupted. Remember that second car still behind me? It's creeping past inches from me. Black? Check. Audi? Check. Female driver? Check.

FFS.

I apologise to the taxi driver who probably wasn't going to right turn through me for holding my hand up in a pleeeeeease stop gesture. I was a tad on edge.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 01 March, 2016, 11:27:49 am
Got into a TTT on this morning's commute.

Picked up another rider in Culter, and we were both going out to Banchory.
Taking turns on the front, we were hardly ever below 30kph, 35 on the flat.
Knocked about 10 minues off my solo pootle-time.

#knackered.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 01 March, 2016, 11:49:18 am
Dodged most of the rain but with the river flowing down one road and the small floods decided to bail onto the main road for the last bit. Would have stayed dry other than for the spray off of a lumber waggon coming the other way. Also Monday seems to have been a major hedge massacring day. Hope I haven't got a puncture when I get on the bike this evening.

Update on the psychocyclepath - they've cleared most of the mud from the path, but it's building up again. I'll be keeping an eye on it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 01 March, 2016, 11:51:11 am
No chance of staying dry, I was soaked though in minutes, it was biblical, but it is Manchester.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 01 March, 2016, 05:28:48 pm
Given the horrible headwind on the way home, I can only conclude that there was a tailwind on the way in this morning!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 01 March, 2016, 05:41:43 pm
^ this

Except that I took the slightly longer route in which was also lovely and quiet. Maybe three or four cars in three miles.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 01 March, 2016, 05:51:47 pm
^  Also this.  Except I took the most direct route due to feeling really tired and knackered.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 01 March, 2016, 06:18:25 pm
Ooh, horizontal sleety hail. I think that's a first for this year! ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 01 March, 2016, 07:30:26 pm
I mitigated the headwind using an e-bike and a streetsweeper  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 01 March, 2016, 07:52:40 pm
In honour of the date:
a) 5 sets of traffic lights out of 6 in the space of 1/4 mile turned to the colour of the welsh dragon as I approached each one.
b) it was persisting it down.

Happy St. David's Day everyone.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ruthie on 01 March, 2016, 09:02:53 pm
Same to you Rowan :)

The old St Luke's Church in Darlington on Barningham St was dedicated to the railwaymen, and I always think of you when I pass it  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 02 March, 2016, 09:08:18 am
Well that started out ok, cold but dry ,then it started raining.

One bit of muppetry when the vehicle in front went to turn right major to minor through a gap in the stream of oncoming motor vehicles except that the gap contained a bicycle. Fortunately both saw what was occurring and slowed to avoid collision.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 02 March, 2016, 09:22:28 am
I felt absolutely crap yesterday.  Being weighed down with a whole bunch of second hand bits and bobs I was taking to a pub for a free handover didn't help.
I suppose that's one benefit of the commute.  You just MTFU and get on with it on days you really don't feel like it.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: trekker12 on 02 March, 2016, 11:25:17 am
Yesterday; turning right at a cross roads with lights, approaching the red light a very shiny, very large Range Rover with quite distinctive number plate forced his way past me only to have to wait at the same red light I did. I moved through the queue to wait at the front making my intentions clear to all I was turning right.

As I did turn right said RR attempted same right turn and a quick look down at my right side pedal revealed it was no more than three inches from his bumper. A quick arm out just to point out I was still turning right and he whizzed past me then indicated and slowed allowing me to pull alongside (negating all of his gained time advantage by forcing his way past in the first place).

He lowered his window and told me I 'needed to learn some road manners', my best withering look did little as he drove off.

This morning the same shiny RR with distinctive number plate overtook me further along my route in a small village on a narrow road with lots of oncoming traffic, at least this time he left me four inches to his head height wing mirror.

I'm learning his interpretation of road manners consists of ensuring anyone who may be in his way is in a ditch and out of the way pretty quick rather than mine which is to put myself somewhere safe and get out of the way when I can!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 02 March, 2016, 11:28:45 am
If the wing mirror is that close to you, you may get a little more clearance by removing the mirror.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 02 March, 2016, 12:38:19 pm
Quote from: LittleWheelsandBig on 02 March, 2016, 11:28:45 am
If the wing mirror is that close to you, you may get a little more clearance by removing the mirror.

...and possibly a little more road rage/ punishment driving/criminal damage charges.  I do find it difficult to limit myself to a hard stare in these kind of situations, but may come up with some quick statement about 'giving cyclists space'.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 02 March, 2016, 12:49:03 pm
I've not found that charges result but YMMV.

Most drivers want to keep their cars intact. The easiest way for them to do so is to keep their car a safe distance from people and objects.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 02 March, 2016, 06:16:25 pm
I normally go around the corner from Chelsea Bridge Road to King's Road, using Walpole Street (https://goo.gl/maps/jixa1TSXivL2), but I couldn't cycle through the junction with King's Road this morning, due to a very large number of policemen, their vehicles and a lot of tape.

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/small.php?size=640&file=PedestrianLorryAccident_20160302.jpg) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/PedestrianLorryAccident_20160302.jpg)

It had all the signs of a bicycle KSI, but apparently a pedestrian had been hit by the lorry.  It's an odd road for a lorry to be turning down, there's nothing down that way that a lorry would likely be need to be going towards, and there are probably better ways to get there.

According to the the news reports I've seen, the pedestrian was seriously injured, but it was not life threatening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 02 March, 2016, 06:51:27 pm
Bleedin hell, even with 3 of us doing turns that was tough and a tad grim
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 02 March, 2016, 08:08:02 pm
So lovely winter morning ride in this morning, but the Snow Clouds of Doom could be seen gathering over the horizon as the morning wore on.

By lunchtime, it was snowing heavily, but not lying; it was turning to deep slush on the roads.
By home-time, it was still snowing heavily, but the roads were a couple of inches deep in wet, cold slush.

Cars overtaking were fine if they crossed onto the other side of the road and into the wheel-tracks of the opposite lane.
But if they only pulled out half-way, their wheels were in the deepest slush, spraying it all over me.
Yuk.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 02 March, 2016, 09:47:09 pm
Lovely.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 02 March, 2016, 09:52:07 pm
Quote from: Si S on 02 March, 2016, 06:51:27 pm
Bleedin hell, even with 3 of us doing turns that was tough and a tad grim

Thats a chain gang, not a commute !  ;D
Dry both ways for me, but the wind had fair picked up to be a strong northerly on the return. Nice ride though: I warmed up quickly and found a cadence that still felt brisk and sustainable for my whole 16k.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 02 March, 2016, 11:12:20 pm
Dry both ways, but the wind was strong and bitter. One of the days I wished that a) I'd taken a geared bike and ii) my route didn't have lovely exposed sea views.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 03 March, 2016, 08:51:54 am
Wow! there appears to be a big glowing ball in sky over Manc, wassat then?

Starting to be able to think about ditching some lights, that means the clocks must be due to change shortly  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: trekker12 on 03 March, 2016, 09:18:22 am
Rain when I left home, which was odd because everywhere I could see was blue sky so it must have been blown from behind.

Used sunglasses for the first time in ages  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 03 March, 2016, 09:20:00 am
Bright, crisp morning. Unfortunately constant head wind all the way in so it was hard work. I'm hoping the wind doesn't change before I head home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MagnusOpus on 03 March, 2016, 09:51:27 am
The birdies were singing their hearts out this morning.....

Please let this be spring
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 03 March, 2016, 09:35:17 pm
Lovely evening ride. Stopped for a fish supper, just ate it outside the chippy.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 04 March, 2016, 10:37:37 am
and a lovely morning here in Oxon out on t'road! 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MagnusOpus on 04 March, 2016, 11:13:12 am
Quote from: MagnusOpus on 03 March, 2016, 09:51:27 am
The birdies were singing their hearts out this morning.....

Please let this be spring

I think I was being a little optimistic....freezing cold headwind this morning.....no snow here yet, but lots 20 miles north and headed this way
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 04 March, 2016, 05:44:24 pm
Muck-spreading time.  In the words of the grate sage and scuorg of st Custard's, "Poo urr gosh."
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 04 March, 2016, 08:33:07 pm
First commute of the week this morning due to having a case of Shit Kicking Colditis. A lovely bright crisp morning, only diminished by the feeling of a chest full of hot porridge mixed with wallpaper paste as i climbed Quarry Wood Road.

The post ride shower was an experience also
<GROSS OUT ALERT>
(click to show/hide)
.

The ride home was somewhat wet and cold but it was a ride home as opposed to a drive.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 04 March, 2016, 09:59:37 pm
Most traffic eva on my return commute this evening - had to filter through slow moving tailback (knock on effects of A34 issues) for large sections of my normally clear route.   Good to be significantly faster on the bike than by car, even though it took me around 15mins longer than usual. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DuncanM on 04 March, 2016, 10:41:21 pm
Yeah, A34 meant that the alternative routes around Abingdon were all jammed up too.  I'm in the car because my knee isn't right (yet), but I'm hoping to ride soon. I'll be doing Oxford to Milton Park (and back). What route do you take?
Cheers
Duncan
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 04 March, 2016, 10:51:34 pm
South from Abingdon, via Drayton & Steventon.   :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 07 March, 2016, 08:57:44 am
A beautiful, crisp, sunny morning. Pity about the traffic and the looong red phase on one set of traffic lights.

Unfortunately I had to fold the wing mirror of a passing car in to give me back some space.  :demon: A slow very close overtake as we both turned left from minor to major at a set of traffic lights.

The next car to pass me gave me loads of space.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 08 March, 2016, 09:02:47 am
On Ozzy today as I had a parcel to collect so needed a rack, a lovely ride in -  that bike is so smooooth, barely noticed what are usually horrendous potholes on Kings Road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 08 March, 2016, 09:07:01 am
Two stops to recover my newspaper after it slid out the side of my saddle bag.  :-[ The first was into a stream of following traffic that preceded to scatter the pages.  :facepalm:

The third stop of the morning was to assist a school kid who had just turned his bike over. He complained of a rubbing brake, the rear looked tight but OK the front though had a block that had rotated on the V brake arm such that the block was catching the tyre. I quickly turned it straight and then tightened the bolt to let him get on his way.  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 08 March, 2016, 09:30:46 am
Quote from: matthew on 08 March, 2016, 09:07:01 am
Two stops to recover my newspaper after it slid out the side of my saddle bag.  :-[

Cycling to work? Saddlebag? A hardcopy newspaper? Pausing to fix schoolboys' bikes?

Where do you commute - the 1950s?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 08 March, 2016, 10:03:26 am
Well today's ride in gave the Roadracers a proper test in the wet. Preferred yesterday's weather. Also legs were still complaining after yesterday's ride, but not too bad, and it's definitely warmer now than it was yesterday, even with the rain.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonBuoy on 08 March, 2016, 01:07:41 pm
This morning's short commute into Loughborough was enlivened by spotting someone with unusual luggage on their bike.  It took a while for my early morning brain to work out that it was That Emily Chappell.  Had a brief word with her at the lights where I was turning off the main road - she was on the way to Leeds for this. (https://www.facebook.com/events/145610409152650/permalink/145631162483908/)

Loads more people at work now know who Emily is!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 08 March, 2016, 01:27:00 pm
Quote from: Pancho on 08 March, 2016, 09:30:46 am
Quote from: matthew on 08 March, 2016, 09:07:01 am
Two stops to recover my newspaper after it slid out the side of my saddle bag.  :-[

Cycling to work? Saddlebag? A hardcopy newspaper? Pausing to fix schoolboys' bikes?

Where do you commute - the 1950s?

No just Berkshire in 2016, the local boys school has quite a wide catchment and is a couple of miles out from the main population town, it is adjacent to a local station / bus routes but a lot of the lads from the estate between the town and school cycle.

I won't have a hard copy paper soon as they stop publishing it in about 3 weeks time.  :'(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 08 March, 2016, 03:21:10 pm
Just been processing my site's weather data for February. I now know that this has been the wettest winter I've commuted through. We've had 599.6mm* rain between 1st Nov and 29th Feb. Thought it had been grim!


*That's 5-6mm more than that London usually gets in a year for context
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 08 March, 2016, 03:24:57 pm
i can't remember the last time it rained on my commute... Interestingly.. it set to rain tomorrow but I'm not riding in.....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 08 March, 2016, 03:26:35 pm
I can, it was 6annahalf hours ago
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 08 March, 2016, 07:59:16 pm
Audis, Audis, Audis.

The first was the guy who drove at a pair of cyclists crossing the road - fair enough, the light had just changed to green for him and they should have been paying more attention, but you could see they were going to cross from miles away, and it would have been easier to have held back a fraction of a second. The driver in the other lane managed it.

Second, when I was crossing the slippery slippery roundabout by Elm Ridge, some miserable old sod in a black Audi who just decided to pull out in front of me.

Finally, in my own street, the dim cunt who refused to slow down or even move over slightly, just so he could hold his line over the middle of the stupid speed bumps. I really hate those speed bumps. I bailed out to the side, otherwise he'd have had a new bonnet decoration.

Not to mention the nobhead who pulled out on me on Eastbourne Road, despite the fact that he then had to go less than half my speed over the endless speed bumps. He wasn't driving an Audi, though.

Urgh, 5 pm commute. I got my timing all wrong today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 08 March, 2016, 08:59:34 pm
As I climbed the ramp from the staff car park, I said to myself, "9" (The number of times I will ever do that again)

Amicable altercation with a driver on the Raddlebarn Road.
Him:  (From open window)  "What on earth are you doing?"
Me: "Better than you, mate"  <smile, wave>

I'm white lining in slow to stopped traffic.  I slow down and sit by his window.
Him:  "What are you doing?" < I thought you'd already said that> Hooray! I get to use the classic line
Me: How quickly did you need to get to the back of this queue?
Him: Stuff blah

Me: Wave and push on down the road.  I decided not to use the next line, which was "You need to chill out a bit mate.  It's good for your head and much better for your heart", as I decided that I had already gained the moral victory.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 09 March, 2016, 08:37:08 am
Cracking bit of fun last night, even with a full pannier and D locks the legs were good enough to give my commuting mate a run for his money holding 40 kph ish from Stretford to Urmston, amazing what a couple of days rest do for you. Bonus draft off a streetsweeper into Flixton.  :thumbsup:

Different story this morning though, that wind was really quite unpleasant.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 09 March, 2016, 09:06:20 am
Fabulous morning ride in this morning, quick, dry (though the ditches were full and the roads wet) and little issues from the traffic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 09 March, 2016, 09:31:15 am
I was playing cycle courier on the way in this morning so went down the main road for the first time in ages. Smooth tarmac, a fast bike and a following wind made for a very enjoyable ride in, even with the extra traffic :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 09 March, 2016, 10:04:26 am
Didn't ride in today but sat on the bus to the tube station.... I was thinkin' how great it was that there were dozens of cyclists just zooming off in every direction which really made me think I was in Amsterdam. Was also incredibly jealous that I couldn't ride today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 10 March, 2016, 08:34:12 am
The end of winter must be in sight as I ditched a set of lights, not that the weight reduction made much difference, so very slow this morning, a big dose of CBA.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 10 March, 2016, 08:53:01 am
No rain. No wind. No frost. No ice. An unusual commute for 2016.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 11 March, 2016, 08:38:04 am
Lovely wee stroll in today on the Brompton.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 11 March, 2016, 09:14:47 am
Lazy today, just enjoying the rather strange glowing ball over Manchester
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 11 March, 2016, 09:15:11 am
Foggy, I thought the fog was getting thicker and thicker until I realised my glasses were collecting the mist and took them off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 11 March, 2016, 10:32:56 am
Was that fog even forecast?  I had to take my specs off too.    Pretty thick in places, and a fair number of ninja cyclists encountered. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tom_e on 11 March, 2016, 12:08:25 pm
Ninja cyclists?  Ninja cars round here.  Even one of the drivers in the office commented on the number of cars without lights in the fog this morning.  I blame those automatic headlight thingies, and failure of drivers to understand what they do and do not do.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 11 March, 2016, 12:16:24 pm
Rode in London... All the time I was thinkin' "What freakin' fog ?"

The sun blind me when it appeared from hiding behind tall buildings...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 11 March, 2016, 07:43:42 pm
Quote from: matthew on 11 March, 2016, 09:15:11 am
Foggy, I thought the fog was getting thicker and thicker until I realised my glasses were collecting the mist and took them off.

Same, should have done a short ride in and a long ride home. Fog was horrible.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 11 March, 2016, 08:11:11 pm
I saw the eponymous Seals at Seal Sands.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 11 March, 2016, 08:26:03 pm
Quote from: Basil on 08 March, 2016, 08:59:34 pm
As I climbed the ramp from the staff car park, I said to myself, "9" (The number of times I will ever do that again)

"6"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 14 March, 2016, 08:44:58 am
Oh, what a glorious morning, wonderful ride in on a warm, bright morning. Then get to work to hear the ups room went up in a puff of magic smoke overnight so no showers, no servers and no voip.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 14 March, 2016, 08:55:52 am
Like riding through treacle this morning, just enough of a nagging wind to make it hard work, at least it was sunny, if a bit chilly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 14 March, 2016, 09:08:20 am
Quote from: Basil on 11 March, 2016, 08:26:03 pm
Quote from: Basil on 08 March, 2016, 08:59:34 pm
As I climbed the ramp from the staff car park, I said to myself, "9" (The number of times I will ever do that again)

"6"

-11 for me!

Felt like I was missing something this morning - for the first time. Looked like a wonderful day to be riding in. Haven't got myself into gear for recreational riding yet - and, even if I did, it'd be too tempting to delay until after rush hour and therefore miss the dawn.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MagnusOpus on 14 March, 2016, 10:05:28 am
Sunny, springy, and first time on the new bike I've been rebuilding

Went rather well... apart from a rattle on the front mudguard
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 14 March, 2016, 10:32:54 am
Was windy!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 14 March, 2016, 12:44:54 pm
I got lost in Middlesbrough. No one wants to ride on the A66, Mrs Google!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 14 March, 2016, 01:40:50 pm
Climbed really well into Painswick and then got stuck in the queue of traffic waiting for the lights further up, it's so narrow there is nothing I can do apart from sit wait and try not to breath in too much as the smog is horrible.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 14 March, 2016, 01:57:08 pm
This set up crap orientation)-
(http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b360/mattlangridge/Photo0231.jpg) (http://s23.photobucket.com/user/mattlangridge/media/Photo0231.jpg.html)

made for a slow painful climb up Quarry Wood Road.

Twas fun though :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 14 March, 2016, 01:58:10 pm
Plenty of weight on the rear wheel, thobut...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 14 March, 2016, 04:16:16 pm
Yup, no endo braking incidents :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ruthie on 14 March, 2016, 04:46:19 pm
Quote from: fboab on 14 March, 2016, 12:44:54 pm
I got lost in Middlesbrough. No one wants to ride on the A66, Mrs Google!

I commuted to Middlesbrough for eight years.  It is an utter, utter shithole.  In phases, the houses on my commute were derelict, boarded-up, demolished, and turned into grassed areas.  And during all that I got t-boned at a junction.

I think you should buy a helicopter to bypass the Boro section.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 15 March, 2016, 11:50:18 am
http://www.standard.co.uk/news/london/new-stand-which-could-slash-thefts-of-bicycles-in-london-a3203416.html

I like this idea a lot.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 15 March, 2016, 12:04:56 pm
I had a nice spin in and got to laugh at the idiot who rear ended a cab because he was cycling like a complete twonk.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 15 March, 2016, 12:48:08 pm
The Toy Bridge was open this morning. I'm wondering if I'll ever get bored of crossing a big River on a viewing platform. I suspect my Facebook friends will get bored of the pictures before I get bored of taking them.
In other news: headwind. Ugh.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 15 March, 2016, 06:51:23 pm
^^ I'd never get bored of that, very jealous, apart from the Boro bit.

Cracking tailwind tonight, taking turns with a friend, I was holding 40 kph when he came past like a train, clinging on at 48, then the road went up and the elastic snapped, great fun though
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 16 March, 2016, 08:32:39 am
Paying for that ^^ a bit this morning, that nasty cold headwind at just the right angle to be tough all the way didn't help, mind you the Sharpe's Atlantic I enjoyed last night probably had an effect too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 16 March, 2016, 08:48:24 am
A road which has been on my commute for well over the last ten years, Cedars Road (https://goo.gl/maps/DQiWAwKCisT2), became a 20 mph zone sometime last week, when I was not commuting.  So far it doesn't appear to have made any difference, the traffic seems to be going at the same speed as it always has, not surprisingly since it's a straight wide hill.  That's not much different from most of the other short areas I cycle, that were made 20 mph zones.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 16 March, 2016, 09:41:56 am
Sun's out 8)

Short sleeves and shorts for the first time this year! Also a much quicker ride than for a while :)

Only negative was kicking the tail of the crud guard on the front, and not being able to find the little nut and bolt that holds it on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 16 March, 2016, 10:34:19 am
Dear fellow bike commuter this am, please give some bloomin warning when you intend to pass from behind between me and the kerb, with a handful of inches to spare, on a not too wide dual-use path...

Other than that good sunny ride .
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: billplumtree on 16 March, 2016, 01:35:12 pm
The main thing of note is that there actually was a commute today.  For the first time in two years, now that my trapped nerve isn't, any more, and by 'eck did it feel good.  I suspect my 6am start is a tad earlier than mcshroom's, cos although the sun was up (gloriously so, in fact) it was about 5C and definitely not short sleeves & shorts weather.  But still lovely.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 16 March, 2016, 02:01:14 pm
Quote from: fboab on 15 March, 2016, 12:48:08 pm
The Toy Bridge was open this morning.


Whats the Toy Bridge ?  Google shows brio and lego and stuff.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 16 March, 2016, 05:16:30 pm
Quote from: sg37409 on 16 March, 2016, 02:01:14 pm
Quote from: fboab on 15 March, 2016, 12:48:08 pm
The Toy Bridge was open this morning.


Whats the Toy Bridge ?  Google shows brio and lego and stuff.
Ah. It's funded by the poor tax lottery fund and closes at the merest hint of wind or mist.
 The Toy Bridge  (http://m.middlesbrough.gov.uk/transporterbridge?)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 16 March, 2016, 05:34:59 pm
That's cool. I'd like that on my commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 17 March, 2016, 09:01:18 am
Very steady cruise in the sun for what'll be the last one of the week since it's the cattle car tomorrow to try and conserve some energy for the weekend. Just need to find an excuse not to ride home with my mate without offending him, he does not do steady whatever he says and I'm not bright enough not to go into terrier mode.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 17 March, 2016, 09:12:15 am
Not quite as warm today but another quick ride in the sunshine :)

I'm slowly gaining speed I think, even with an extra rucksack today
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 17 March, 2016, 10:05:55 am
Close call this morning. There is a regular group of school lads who I often see on my way to work. They pull out of a side turn and either up onto the pavement or into the cycle lane, however they never look for cyclists coming along the cycle lane and don't stop. This morning they got the junction just as I was approaching so I was already slowing when the lead rider came into my lane without so much as a look. As with the last time they did this to me I had a car in the vehicle lane on my rear quarter and couldn't pull out to make room.

My bellow of "Morning" rather shocked him and was followed with an instruction to "look next time".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 17 March, 2016, 10:13:59 am
'Twas a bit linsey-woolsey this morning. The lack of wind was a most splendid thing. The lack of visibility, on the other hand...

Where did that fog come from ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 17 March, 2016, 09:08:37 pm
Bright  and clear here today (nippy tho'). Am enjoying the "false dawn" before the clocks go forward and it's back to dark o'clock am for a while.

Two barn owls at 10 mile interval.  Nice to see them, they've been a bit few and far between since we had that harder than usual winter 3 or 4 years back.  Possible skylark singing.  Can't be sure, skull cap interfering with hearing. Bit early, but the lambs and other things are 2 to 3 weeks early this year so p'raps not impossible.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 17 March, 2016, 10:10:37 pm
Bit of a traffic jam on Cleasby Lane today...

(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: red marley on 17 March, 2016, 10:35:56 pm
Looks like Iron Maiden's Eddie on the front of that tractor.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 17 March, 2016, 11:48:39 pm
All farmers are metal fans on the sly. Well-known fact.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 18 March, 2016, 10:58:59 am
1st commute this week. I was totally floored by the flu earlier, but felt I was over it not too bad. I knew I'd feel a wee bit weak today, and I was totally right.  Slight headwind which is unusual, but I just had to slow right down and plod on. I enjoyed it a lot.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 18 March, 2016, 11:03:34 am
Pleasant ride in. Stopped to talk to a workman to point out that their traffic management round their works wasn't brilliant. Come round a blind left hand bend to be confronted by a van with flashing lights and a keep right board as you approach a railway bridge with a crest.  Suggested the van should be on the verge on the other side of the road and then the sight lines of the working area and the time to assess the traffic beyond the bridge would be better. Worse still the school run was about to start and it is the sole access to the primary school and no through.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 18 March, 2016, 11:13:55 am
Quite nice, a little breezy and chilly but good to be awheel!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 18 March, 2016, 11:18:25 am
I walked out into bright sunshine then rode almost immediately into a bank of fog. Looks like it's burning off now but it was a chillier ride than I expected when I set off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 18 March, 2016, 12:10:43 pm
dress down day, so rode in Dutch style, casual clothing on all the shared use cycle paths rather than the road.  So nice and relaxed, only a little slower, and no need to shower.  Not dressing for cycling made m forget my gloves though, not so good pretty cold this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 21 March, 2016, 02:21:19 pm
Very steady today, legs are somewhat sore - this hiking lark can't be good for you, probably should have caught the cattle car but just couldn't face it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 21 March, 2016, 04:22:37 pm
Faster than expected this morning. My legs are in better nick than I feared they would be after the weekend. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 21 March, 2016, 08:20:07 pm
Ride in was too warm for the jacket and too cold for bare arms so popped into the bike shop and picked up some arm warmers, quite impressed not warm and toasty but kept the cold out enough.

Ride home seemed to mark the arrival of the first fair weather cyclists of the season on my route, I set the scene thus,

* You'll have to imagine an overweight but active cyclist on a black thorn with dynamo lighting and a single ortlieb pannier chugging up the hill at a moderate pace wondering if I should sing along to my ipod (single side ear bud) or ride faster.

"Oh hello are you touring" - other cyclist.

"No just commuting" - me

"It's just you've got panniers and everything" - other cyclist

"It's where I put my sandwiches and spare pants" - me

"Oh why don't you take those things in the car" - other cyclist

I gave up at that point and reflected on the fact I'd love to stick his flashing lights that were giving me a headache so far up his arse he could be a night light.

That's another thing, flashing bloody lights, they should be banned IMO! If your light won't last a couple hours to get you home buy a better light cos the one you've got is rubbish, christ knows how he saw the potholes, I struggle and I've got two a edelux and a 1500 lumen monster.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 21 March, 2016, 09:22:05 pm
Quote from: davelodwig on 21 March, 2016, 08:20:07 pm
"Oh why don't you take those things in the car" - other cyclist

It's hard not to scoff at that. That sort of logic was never, well, logical, but it should have died a proper never-to-be-resurrected death after this (http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk_politics/4953922.stm).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 21 March, 2016, 09:24:33 pm
Quote from: davelodwig on 21 March, 2016, 08:20:07 pm
"Oh why don't you take those things in the car" - other cyclist

 ???


Quote
That's another thing, flashing bloody lights, they should be banned IMO! If your light won't last a couple hours to get you home buy a better light cos the one you've got is rubbish, christ knows how he saw the potholes, I struggle and I've got two a edelux and a 1500 lumen monster.

I don't think they're generally using flashing lights to extend runtime, I think it's more about being obnoxiously visible.  Which makes sense, in an arms race sort of way, up to the point where your view of the road ahead - potholes and all - is in strobe-o-vision.  People who are more concerned about being driven into by oncoming cars than hitting unlit potholes have something seriously wrong with their risk assessment, IMHO.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 21 March, 2016, 10:39:08 pm
Quote from: Kim on 21 March, 2016, 09:24:33 pm

Quote
That's another thing, flashing bloody lights, they should be banned IMO! If your light won't last a couple hours to get you home buy a better light cos the one you've got is rubbish, christ knows how he saw the potholes, I struggle and I've got two a edelux and a 1500 lumen monster.

I don't think they're generally using flashing lights to extend runtime, I think it's more about being obnoxiously visible.  Which makes sense, in an arms race sort of way, up to the point where your view of the road ahead - potholes and all - is in strobe-o-vision.  People who are more concerned about being driven into by oncoming cars than hitting unlit potholes have something seriously wrong with their risk assessment, IMHO.

There's one stretch that is fast downhill and the road surface is slowly sliding down the hill, let's be blunt gun crews at the somme would take a look at it and go another way. It's the reason I bought the second stupidly bright light, I kept expecting to find the crippled remains of mr flashy. I suspect I'm just risk averse and normal people just ride through the holes and buy a new wheel occasionally.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 22 March, 2016, 12:48:54 am
The most benign weather conditions so far on my new commute; no rain, moderate wind and not very cold.
What made the ride memorable was the badger that scuttled across the TPT in front of me on the way home.
It wasn't very big so I assume it was fairly young.
It's only the 3rd live badger that I've seen.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 22 March, 2016, 08:34:39 am
Nice run in. Yes nice, no sun, no wind, no cold. Just a dead cat, dead rabbit .
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 22 March, 2016, 08:56:10 am
A very pleasant run in, muscle soreness is beginning to ease. I see there are yet more holes being dug on Kings Road, no doubt the infill will be of the same standard as the previous works, that is filled with a catapult by Bodgit & Scarper, I'm convinced someone on the council is getting backhanders, why else would you sign off on such shoddy work? It may well be time to give this route up as bad job and take the run through Chorlton.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 22 March, 2016, 08:58:12 am
Brrrrrrp....t'chunk....t'chunk....(woosh)....TING....TING....TING....parp

Well, that could've been exciting, as the Fenix dropped into the front wheel going downhill at 35mph :facepalm:

Indestructible little buggers tho', it bounced for 50 metres - though field testing in this manner is not much recommended ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 22 March, 2016, 09:02:51 am
Quote from: Deano on 17 March, 2016, 10:10:37 pm
Bit of a traffic jam on Cleasby Lane today...

(click to show/hide)


If it was me, I'd have jokingly taken the middle of the road, and waved the tractor back! But I'm a cheeky monkey and can get away with things.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 22 March, 2016, 09:04:53 am
Quote from: Riggers on 22 March, 2016, 09:02:51 am
Quote from: Deano on 17 March, 2016, 10:10:37 pm
Bit of a traffic jam on Cleasby Lane today...

(click to show/hide)


If it was me, I'd have jokingly taken the middle of the road, and waved the tractor back! But I'm a cheeky monkey and can get away with things.
Naw, you'd get underneath with a low enough bent - Deano just needs N+1 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 22 March, 2016, 09:36:09 am
Only the 1 mile ride down from the off-site car park this morning. See 'I could have commuted in today' thread for why.

Hopefully I'll get to extend the return a bit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 22 March, 2016, 09:52:15 am
Nice run in this morning. Why when the weather has just got so much better was there so much more traffic on the roads  ???

I was passing queuing traffic for about 1/3rd of the ride.  :smug:




Oh and my commute for tomorrow has just been approved...   Berkshire to Warrington by a combination of Bike and Train.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 22 March, 2016, 10:05:11 am
A roe dear close to the fence as I pedaled up the hill into Painswick, buggered off before I manged to get the camera out alas.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 22 March, 2016, 10:25:11 am
Pootle in with a silly grin enjoying the sunshine and the lack of traffic because of my lateness!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 22 March, 2016, 01:10:26 pm
60 minutes and 33 seconds. That offends my sense of righteousness. I blame the 5 mph site speed limit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 22 March, 2016, 05:37:48 pm
Quote from: davelodwig on 21 March, 2016, 08:20:07 pm
* You'll have to imagine an overweight but active cyclist on a black thorn with dynamo lighting and a single ortlieb pannier chugging up the hill at a moderate pace wondering if I should sing along to my ipod (single side ear bud) or ride faster.
Surely this is not a choice. Once you start singing, you will ride faster, if only to get away from the awful noise that somehow keeps pace with you the whole time and drowns out your music. Oh...  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 22 March, 2016, 05:48:58 pm
Well, other than making a complete arse of myself on the way in this morning.  :-[ (see the Oiks shouting things thread), nothing of note happened at all today.

Except the fact that was my last cycle commute.  EVER.
(I'll be commuting by train for my last day tomorrow, for reasons that I'm sure most of you can work out.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 22 March, 2016, 09:25:36 pm
Never say never Basil. You might get a wee job stacking shelves or serving old dears teas at hospital waiting rooms or something.

My commute today was ace. The bit between the morning and evening rides was sh1t though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 23 March, 2016, 08:02:45 am
Quote from: Under the arches on 22 March, 2016, 08:34:39 am
Nice run in. Yes nice, no sun, no wind, no cold. Just a dead cat, dead rabbit .

Dead badger on the way home. I was hoping the ride in would blast my cold away. It didn't  :facepalm: :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 23 March, 2016, 08:35:32 am
Engaged lazy mode, the rest of the week will be pootling. Added an extra km by running down to Chorlton-Cum-Hardy, worth it for the smoother ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 24 March, 2016, 08:45:54 am
Very pleasant finish to the week, a buddy I've not seen for a while who does a mixed mode commute from Liverpool caught me at the lights at Urmston and the traffic was light enough that we could ride two abreast pretty much all the way to Stretford, very civilised  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MagnusOpus on 24 March, 2016, 09:52:52 am
I caved in and started using Strava at the weekend....I just wanted to log the distance and rough speed I go as I tend to avoid putting a computer on bikes.....

But the segments thing is hooking me in......the usual gentle trundle to work puts me towards the bottom of most of them.....a bit embarrassing so I've been trying to see how fast I am when I make an effort.....that's a bit better....not bad for a 48 year old smoker who rarely pushes hard enough to get out of breath.....around a third the way down when I try.....

Consequently, this week I've been arriving at work increasingly sweaty and knackered.....

Hopefully the novelty will wear off soon (apart from when I got a good tailwind!)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 24 March, 2016, 09:41:17 pm
With sudacreme, which was nice.  Have had a bit of a sore arse recently.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 24 March, 2016, 10:50:57 pm
Enjoy your retirement, Basil. Get utilitarian!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 25 March, 2016, 07:39:27 am
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 24 March, 2016, 10:50:57 pm
Enjoy your retirement, Basil. Get utilitarian!

Thanks.

I'll be over there after a short rest.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris N on 25 March, 2016, 08:26:30 am
Sun, tailwind(-ish), lapwings and very little traffic.  Ace. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: billplumtree on 28 March, 2016, 09:41:24 am
Dark again at 6 am :-(  Still, at least it meant I had company from an owl for half a mile or so this morning, hunting in the half-light as we crossed the mosses together.  Magical.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: billplumtree on 28 March, 2016, 06:35:07 pm
Quote from: billplumtree on 28 March, 2016, 09:41:24 am
I had company from an owl for half a mile or so this morning, hunting in the half-light as we crossed the mosses together.  Magical.

Wol was there again on t'way home, in exactly the same spot and in broad daylight this time.  Poor thing's probably confused by the clocks changing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 29 March, 2016, 08:55:02 am
Yuck! Cold, wet and dark.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 29 March, 2016, 09:19:38 am
Bright, Crisp and Sunny  :thumbsup:

Pity about the standards of driving, two notable occurrences:

1. Driver of the liveried van bailed out of overtaking due to the pedestrian island in the centre of the road, then passed on my left as I took the right turn lane for the lights. Right hand brake light was out and phone on knee as he typed into it at the red lights.

2. Impatient 5 series touring overtook on approach to blind 90 right despite my being nearer the centre line than the kerb. Proceeded to then turn into the housing development I cut through so his total journey can't have been much more than a mile.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 29 March, 2016, 09:51:17 am
Went on CS7 for the first time since the van headbutt and the holibobs left it relatively benign. I suspect there will be a headwind and some rain on the way home...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 30 March, 2016, 10:22:59 am
2 C this morning !
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jon on 30 March, 2016, 11:15:18 am
Twas cold.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 31 March, 2016, 11:57:19 am
Had some legs this morning, most unusual.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 31 March, 2016, 12:08:15 pm
Good sunny morning - in shorts/ss-jersey+armwmrs...

One driver ahead, at T-junction, looking like turning right (from positioning) but actually turned left without indicating, as I turned & came up behind them, noticed driver was on her mobile.   :facepalm:    Quelle surprise...

Car towing a dog washing trailer, underestimated my speed and their vehicle length, going through a pinch point - cutting it very fine.   Numpton.  Why can't people just wait!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 31 March, 2016, 12:08:55 pm
Quote from: Si S on 31 March, 2016, 11:57:19 am
Had some legs this morning, most unusual.

+1 and the presence of another cyclist up ahead to chase resulted in a rapid ride in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 31 March, 2016, 01:43:11 pm
Park in the cycle lane day today, leading to scare the living shit out of Lindsay on Cargo Fleet.
Trip on the Toy Bridge makes everything better, though. Especially when the ticket collector comes over all fan boy on your bike. He was a bit disappointed I was only going to work - the 2 panniers and West Suffolk livery made him think I was on an adventure.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 31 March, 2016, 01:47:06 pm
I think that's a hint...   :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 01 April, 2016, 08:55:57 am
Early bird today after getting agreement to shift my hours slightly, amazing the difference 20 mins can make.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MagnusOpus on 01 April, 2016, 09:24:52 am
Late for work today......

Tanking it in on the kingfisher, which has a low bottom bracket and wide mks touring pedals.....Whoopsie, I really should learn to stop pedalling around corners on this bike....Massive pedal strike, rear wheel in the air.....just about rode it out, and the adrenaline boost helped speed the rest of the journey up
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 01 April, 2016, 09:26:34 am
Quote from: MagnusOpus on 01 April, 2016, 09:24:52 am
Late for work today......

Tanking it in on the kingfisher, which has a low bottom bracket and wide mks touring pedals.....Whoopsie, I really should learn to stop pedalling around corners on this bike....Massive pedal strike, rear wheel in the air.....just about rode it out, and the adrenaline boost helped speed the rest of the journey up

hahaha! haven't done that myself in a LONG time!!

Cycled 13 miles from my parents. Bloody cold in the sticks so good think to wear a jacket and double layered gloves.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 01 April, 2016, 09:49:41 am
Freezing on the way in yesterday, but lovely on the way home so I went the long way over the gwent levels.1st short sleeved ride of the year  8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 01 April, 2016, 12:19:15 pm
Twatty road rage on the rab of doom, blue car with silly spoilers pulls out in front of black car who dramatically speeds up to make it more scary so blue car jams the brakes on with a squeal to escalate matters even more and I ride past bothering nobody and get to work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 04 April, 2016, 09:51:32 am
Well that was quick, and I was spinning out in places. I think it's time for the summer gear to be deployed (48*17 rather than 48*19).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 04 April, 2016, 10:18:59 am
Just glad to be out there this morning. First commute since 8th March due to a bad back and working away from home.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 05 April, 2016, 08:01:58 am
Tailwind and a bit of SCR through Irlam made up for the rain, quite enjoyed that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 05 April, 2016, 08:49:43 am
Dry and sunny for another lovely ride in with the exception of drivers playing chicken as they passed the bin lorry on double white lines.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 05 April, 2016, 01:03:39 pm
Last night : loose goats.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 05 April, 2016, 01:04:59 pm
Quote from: MagnusOpus on 01 April, 2016, 09:24:52 am
Late for work today......

Tanking it in on the kingfisher, which has a low bottom bracket and wide mks touring pedals.....Whoopsie, I really should learn to stop pedalling around corners on this bike....Massive pedal strike, rear wheel in the air.....just about rode it out, and the adrenaline boost helped speed the rest of the journey up

That just made me shudder. Glad you stayed upright.

Pretty uneventful return to my normal commute today. Nice to have missed the rain while eating breakfast :)

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 05 April, 2016, 04:19:07 pm
Bit rainy, not heavy though it had been overnight, country roads had surface water. Once in town it was drier.
Met an occasional acquaintance as he squeezed in beside me at a junction rather than filtering dodgily to front.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 06 April, 2016, 08:01:40 am
Was not looking forward to this one since it was absolutely bucketing it down when I was emptying the dog, got the bike out and someone switched the rain off then got to take advantage of the tailwind to be lazy :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 06 April, 2016, 08:49:54 am
drizzly, with a breeze blowing it in my face...

However little traffic, lots of cyclists (including some going my way) and I didn't have to put a foot down in the entire 6.5 miles. No red lights, clear out of every side turning, clear for every right turn.  :thumbsup:

Only the precipitation and the cold fingers to tell me I wasn't dreaming the 23:08 for the door to door where 6 weeks ago I expected 28-32 minutes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 06 April, 2016, 09:22:26 am
Dodged the showers., but the wind is back. Looks and feels more like late autumn than spring.

Much nicer ride with oil on my chain than the squeaky embarrassing ride home yesterday after the rain had cleaned the factory lube off :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 06 April, 2016, 09:37:15 am
http://www.standard.co.uk/news/transport/cycle-superhighway-on-victoria-embankment-being-overrun-with-joggers-a3218831.html

Fuckin' cyclists....

If joggers wanna be in it when I am doing 20mph then so be it. I will NOT be swervin' much....

Whatup's comments in the comments section is troll-level funny!......
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: QuentinX on 06 April, 2016, 09:38:44 am
Took a new route with a new chain. Surprisingly few fellow cyclists.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 06 April, 2016, 01:21:37 pm
Quote from: TigaSefi on 06 April, 2016, 09:37:15 am
http://www.standard.co.uk/news/transport/cycle-superhighway-on-victoria-embankment-being-overrun-with-joggers-a3218831.html

Fuckin' cyclists....

I don't really see a problem with sharing a path with runners, skaters, wheelchair users, hoverboardists or whatever as long as they keep left and behave predictably.  They're no different from slower cyclists in that respect.

What it comes down to is how busy the path is, and we won't know about that until the whole route is open.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 06 April, 2016, 01:24:18 pm
Quote from: Kim on 06 April, 2016, 01:21:37 pm
Quote from: TigaSefi on 06 April, 2016, 09:37:15 am
http://www.standard.co.uk/news/transport/cycle-superhighway-on-victoria-embankment-being-overrun-with-joggers-a3218831.html

Fuckin' cyclists....

I don't really see a problem with sharing a path with runners, skaters, wheelchair users, hoverboardists or whatever as long as they keep left and behave predictably.  They're no different from slower cyclists in that respect.

What it comes down to is how busy the path is, and we won't know about that until the whole route is open.

Agreed. Actually I did a bit of digging and it seems that the Black Cab union is saying what a waste of money it is etc blah blah blah... So they need to pipe down. And it also occurred to me that lunch times will be quiet as most cyclists do have a regular 9 to 5 job and 5pm is always rather busy. To a point that pedestrians are having to look both ways! Shock horror!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 06 April, 2016, 01:48:50 pm
Quote
One tweeted: “Just driven along Victoria Embankment. CSH 50 odd joggers, zero bikes the whole length. Money well spent?”
The implication being that joggers are not worth spending money on?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 07 April, 2016, 08:26:04 am
One of those days when you're trying to take it easy but every light you approach is on green when you get in sprinting range....made all but one too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 07 April, 2016, 09:14:22 am
Early commute today. It's getting colder again I think. Also far more cars on the road for a 7:30am start than a 9am one.

Slowly raising my saddle on the tourer which is improving things as it was feeling a bit low. I'm sure I haven't moved it down before and it doesn't slip so I'm a bit confused. Have my legs got longer? ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 07 April, 2016, 09:51:39 am
Sarted badly- bike had a flat rear when I got it out of the bunker.

Swapped it out for the summer commute which just needed the tyres topping up. Headed out 20 minutes late.

10 minutes into the rided and I thought "Hmmmm, the rear seems a bit forgiving." Sure enough, another visitation.

Slow puncture so put some air in it and rode home. Got changed and drove.

Bugger.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 07 April, 2016, 10:30:25 am
I had a car jink between lanes unexpectedly on me this morning. She saw me at the last minute as I was about to sprawl across her wing with both brakes locked solid. We both came to an awkward stop with the driver behind her leaning on his horn.

As all this happened at all of 5mph it was not exactly life threatening, but when you only have one mirror to check...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 07 April, 2016, 11:13:46 am
Strong headwind last night. Some guy in front working hard up this wee drag, and he spits to the right just as I passed. The wind was so strong and luckly I'd left a decent gap so it was whipped away and missed me by a fraction.  Least he was apologetic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 07 April, 2016, 01:36:45 pm
Mostly sunny, but a little bit brisk at around 6 to 7°C, about half what it has been recently.  I also managed to time it almost exactly perfectly badly, to hit the maximum number of other commuter cyclists on Queenstown Road.

Unusually, along Cedars Road and Queenstown Road, there was a chap on a Pedersen.  I haven't seen one of those for a while, and I don't think I've ever seen one in London.

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/small.php?size=320&file=vlcsnap-2016-04-07-12h18m50s256.png) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/vlcsnap-2016-04-07-12h18m50s256.png)   (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/small.php?size=320&file=vlcsnap-2016-04-07-12h15m10s875.png) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/vlcsnap-2016-04-07-12h15m10s875.png)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 07 April, 2016, 07:43:45 pm
Nagging headwind this morning but, on the plus side, first cowslips and bluebells of the year, a barn owl, 2 or 3 buzzards (including one bouncing around in a field full of sheep) a couple of red kites and any number of cute lambs. And, even better, it didn't rain until after I got to work.

Slightly OT. What I think of as the Chiltern population of red kites has moved a bit further westward.  Saw one over Ampney Crucis last week on the home-bound journey.  My obs. suggest that they're spreading westward at about 1 to 2 miles a year.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 07 April, 2016, 09:42:34 pm
slower ride in due to a nagging head wind, after work I had to attend a colleagues retirement do so 4 miles from the office to the appointed pub. I managed to dodge the worst of the heavy rain showers but there were a number of locations where there was water from kerb to kerb. Later there was a 10 mile ride home along very pleasant country roads for a total of 20 miles in the day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 08 April, 2016, 01:16:56 am
I got soaked on the way in by an un-forecast (as far as I could tell) downpour. Since it's the first time I've been rained on on this commute, I suppose I shouldn't complain too much albeit I use the car if it looks like it's going to rain.
The trip home was in still soggy cycling gear. Not nice and I felt really lacking in energy. It appears that I was dehydrated ...........

So far, I've not enjoyed riding in and I prefer to drive. Whether that's the route, the times that I'm riding or, simply, that I've not done many miles this year, I don't know.
I intend to apply Rule #5.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 08 April, 2016, 07:00:26 am
I don't know what I rode through last night but it's left me with burns on my left leg, melted my boot and stripped all the paint off the inside of my full metal fender  :o Thank deity for mudguards
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 08 April, 2016, 01:18:50 pm
Blimey. Could it be something as obvious as fuel, or do you suspect something even nastier?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 08 April, 2016, 01:20:25 pm
Quote from: TimO on 07 April, 2016, 01:36:45 pm
Mostly sunny, but a little bit brisk at around 6 to 7°C, about half what it has been recently.  I also managed to time it almost exactly perfectly badly, to hit the maximum number of other commuter cyclists on Queenstown Road.

Unusually, along Cedars Road and Queenstown Road, there was a chap on a Pedersen.  I haven't seen one of those for a while, and I don't think I've ever seen one in London.

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/small.php?size=320&file=vlcsnap-2016-04-07-12h18m50s256.png) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/vlcsnap-2016-04-07-12h18m50s256.png)   (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/small.php?size=320&file=vlcsnap-2016-04-07-12h15m10s875.png) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/vlcsnap-2016-04-07-12h15m10s875.png)

I've seen him a few times, usually in Battersea park or nearby.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 08 April, 2016, 04:52:35 pm
Quote from: Paul on 08 April, 2016, 01:18:50 pm
Blimey. Could it be something as obvious as fuel, or do you suspect something even nastier?
I suspect it's something that's run out of the back of the tippers that have been clearing contaminated land nearby to build the power station  :sick:  I'd be surprised if fuel would strip the paint
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moultonaught on 08 April, 2016, 05:05:15 pm
I see a pederson in Hyde Park quite regularly.
This morning was a fun commute. My first on fixed in London, as the buyer of my 'winter fix' bike picked it up from my office.

I really enjoyed it. I was given  (another) Dahon last night.  I'm yet to collect it but it's a single speed so maybe it might end up with a fixed wheel...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 08 April, 2016, 05:16:55 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 07 April, 2016, 09:14:22 am
Early commute today. It's getting colder again I think. Also far more cars on the road for a 7:30am start than a 9am one.

Slowly raising my saddle on the tourer which is improving things as it was feeling a bit low. I'm sure I haven't moved it down before and it doesn't slip so I'm a bit confused. Have my legs got longer? ???
I've noticed something similar in myself. I reckon it might be something like tendons and muscles stretching as the weather gets warmer more into spring or you're doing more miles or something.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 08 April, 2016, 05:24:59 pm
The cleat position's slightly different on my winter boots...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 08 April, 2016, 05:37:16 pm
Winter boots will usually have a thicker sole anyway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 08 April, 2016, 08:46:06 pm
So, this evenings experience was marred by the shithead driver of a Microphallus Equus Germaincus. Either a IXXI Somoeneshovedarocketupitsarse or a Soundslikeapepper. I was riding along the A308 adjacent to Pinkneys Green Common when I heard it reving behind me. I then heard it drop a cog or two and accelerate. This was at the same time as a car was approaching in the opposite carriageway, close enough that I wouldnt have pulled out of a side road if it was that close.

The twat in the sports car just made it back onto our side of the road without a) removing my front wheel or b) trashing either car. The joyous moment was the sudden brake lights as he rapidly closed on the car just ahead of us. Again- TWAT!

Aside from that, the ride home was great. The first day commuting this year onthe Cannondale R800 so swifter and spritlyer :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 08 April, 2016, 11:56:00 pm
This was my ride home

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1517/25708808414_110567a67d_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/FaNn4u)brommie on the bridge (https://flic.kr/p/FaNn4u) by sg310 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/24775321@N02/), on Flickr
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 11 April, 2016, 08:11:51 am
A tough start to the week, more of an extended grovel chewing the stem for an hour than a simple commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 11 April, 2016, 09:01:40 am
The cars are back from their Easter holidays.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 11 April, 2016, 09:27:33 pm
A draft, for our friends at Cemex

Quote
I note from the results of a Google search of your company name that you appear to take great pride in the work that you have done to promote the safety of cyclists and other vulnerable road users, including participating in "Exchanging Places" events around the country - even here in York.  I would like to tell you about an interaction I had with one of your drivers this morning (Monday 11/4/16) as I was cycling to work.  This took place on Hull Road heading out of York, just after the junction with Tang Hall Lane, shortly after 11 o'clock.

I feel that your driver's behaviour - namely sounding the horn moments before overtaking, leaving insufficient space, and choosing to remove their hand from the steering wheel in order to point to the adjacent shared use pavement whilst looking at me in their rear view mirror and shouting at me to get on the path - fell far short of the standard of driving I would expect from a responsible and professional employee of your company.  I also note that this occurred a matter of yards before Hull Road becomes a dual carriageway where, by using a few seconds of patience and some consideration for vulnerable road users, they would have been able to carry out a safe and appropriate overtake.

I would be grateful if you could pass the following information from the highway code to the driver of your company's vehicle as they appeared to have forgotten some of the fundamentals. 

Rule 61, regarding cycle routes:
"Use cycle routes, advanced stop lines, cycle boxes and toucan crossings unless at the time it is unsafe to do so. Use of these facilities is not compulsory and will depend on your experience and skills, but they can make your journey safer."

Rule 112, regarding the use of the horn and audible signals
"Use only while your vehicle is moving and you need to warn other road users of your presence. Never sound your horn aggressively."

Rule 160, regarding driver behaviour once moving
"drive with both hands on the wheel where possible. This will help you to remain in full control of the vehicle at all times"
"be aware of other road users, especially cycles and motorcycles who may be filtering through the traffic. These are more difficult to see than larger vehicles and their riders are particularly vulnerable. Give them plenty of room, especially if you are driving a long vehicle or towing a trailer"

Rule 212
"When passing motorcyclists and cyclists, give them plenty of room (see Rules 162 to 167). If they look over their shoulder it could mean that they intend to pull out, turn right or change direction. Give them time and space to do so."

Rule 213
"Motorcyclists and cyclists may suddenly need to avoid uneven road surfaces and obstacles such as drain covers or oily, wet or icy patches on the road. Give them plenty of room and pay particular attention to any sudden change of direction they may have to make."

You may also wish to point out to them that sounding the horn aggressively and unnecessarily can be very startling for cyclists and, like overtaking without leaving sufficient space, is liable to cause some cyclists to wobble.  Cleaning the blood off their cab would take a lot longer than just waiting for a safe place to overtake and be far more complicated than understanding and accepting that cyclists are allowed to use the roads too.  If they would like to try their own 'exchanging places' experience, I'd be very happy to accompany them on my cycle commute to help them appreciate why a cyclist might make the active choice not to use some poor quality or inappropriate cycle facilities, and how driver behaviour impacts on vulberable road users.  I even have a tandem they could take the back seat on...

Regards,

Any comments, suggestions, sarcastic rejoinders?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ruthie on 11 April, 2016, 09:33:48 pm
I think that's pretty good.  You didn't get the reg.  number?

That sort of thing happens to me all the time, in fact I barely notice these days.  I must be a dickhead magnet or something.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 11 April, 2016, 09:37:12 pm
Went for a long loop after work. Didn't count on just how strong the wind was getting which made the exposed two mile section straight at it grim. In the end I gave up on my plan of heading to Wasdale and instead settled for a shorter trip up Bower Bank and over Irton Pike instead.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jsabine on 11 April, 2016, 09:55:37 pm
Quote from: Ruthie on 11 April, 2016, 09:33:48 pm
You didn't get the reg.  number?

The vehicle will be tracked. Given the time and location, they'll know exactly who it was - if they choose to look it up.

Quote from: CrinklyLion on 11 April, 2016, 09:27:33 pm
A draft, for our friends at Cemex
[snip ...]
Any comments, suggestions, sarcastic rejoinders?

Rather than talking about 'the results of a google search,' I'd probably refer to their own policies and press releases - http://www.cemex.com/MediaCenter/Story/Story20151015.aspx (hurrah, they won an award, because of their committment to "to making the roads safer for vulnerable road users so that we can all share our roads safely") and http://www.cemex.co.uk/cemex-commitment-to-cycle-safety-and-protection-of-vulnerable-road-users.aspx (in particular point 4 of their strategy, Enhanced Driver Training and Engagement, which doesn't seem to have taken hold with this driver) are a start.

I also wonder if the highway code quotes are a bit passive-aggressive, detracting from the message, and if the 'blood on the cab' reference feels a bit OTT - but these are definitely 'I wouldn't write it like that' comments rather than 'I think you shouldn't say that.' (I do tend to go for understatement in complaint letters - I'm usually disappointed rather than outraged - so filter my views accordingly.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 12 April, 2016, 12:01:49 am
Quote from: Si S on 11 April, 2016, 08:11:51 am
A tough start to the week, more of an extended grovel chewing the stem for an hour than a simple commute.

What did you expect after Cross of Greet and Nick O'Pendle?!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 12 April, 2016, 08:12:53 am
Quote from: Peter on 12 April, 2016, 12:01:49 am
Quote from: Si S on 11 April, 2016, 08:11:51 am
A tough start to the week, more of an extended grovel chewing the stem for an hour than a simple commute.

What did you expect after Cross of Greet and Nick O'Pendle?!

But I did the Nick from the easy side and had a day of liquid recovery on Sunday  :D

Last night I was unable to take full advantage of the tailwind but there was enough in the tank to raise the ire of a moped rider who couldn't get enough out of his hairdryer to lose the cyclist alongside. Had some trouble this morning remembering I'm supposed to be taking it easy and am not a terrier with a thing for buses.  ;D

Quote from: CrinklyLion on 11 April, 2016, 09:27:33 pm
A draft, for our friends at Cemex


Crinkles, send it to roadpeace (http://www.roadpeace.org/) too, the chair is Cynthia Barlow. Cemex's cycle policies came about after her daughter was killed by one of their trucks and she purchased enough shares to get a voice at the AGM and make a pest of herself regarding their attitude of one cyclist killed a year by their trucks was an acceptable cost of business.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 12 April, 2016, 08:43:59 am
Stopped on the way in, there was a lad from the local primary school hunched over with his scooter lying in the road. Turns out he had slipped while on the pavement, no blood but tears and bruises to his hands and hip. I walked with him the rest of the way into the school and then let one of the staff know as he went into the breakfast club.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 12 April, 2016, 09:23:02 am
Well done matthew :thumbsup:
Pretty quick for me this morning with just about no wind. Almost dodged all the rain and got away with not wearing a coat so I'll deem that a success. :)

I think I've worked out why I have shifting problems moving from granny to middle on the Horizon. I've fitted the middle ring back-to-front and I think it's asymmetrical, meaning it sits a lot closer to the big ring than the granny. :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 12 April, 2016, 05:48:00 pm
Quote from: jsabine on 11 April, 2016, 09:55:37 pm
Quote from: Ruthie on 11 April, 2016, 09:33:48 pm
You didn't get the reg.  number?

The vehicle will be tracked. Given the time and location, they'll know exactly who it was - if they choose to look it up.


I got an email back today (from a person with an actual name, and giving me an actual phone number) asking for further details i.e. what sort of vehicle to help identify the driver.  They've also passed the information along to "local area Operations".  So it sounds like they might actually at least try to find the driver and have a word...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 12 April, 2016, 06:01:42 pm
That's not bad for a response.

I've just ridden back into some very wet weather. Not sure what it is about rain that brings the idiots out on the road but I had more close passes on the way home than I've had in the previous month. Also the water table is so high/drainage is so bad that the roads are struggling to clear the water. It usually takes more rain than today's to cause that much surface water.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 13 April, 2016, 08:19:34 am
Very overdressed last night but managed to chase down a rider up the ramp past the shell garage, this obviously woke him up as I was a bit surprised when he came whizzing past as he made a better/riskier* job of filtering at Urmston. Off the lights he started signalling the hazards so I put in a dig to catch back on and got to recover a bit past the school, after the the shops I decided to do a turn with the comment "not sure I can hold this", doing 40kph into the wind, his reply was "you're doing fine"..hmmm...that depends on your definition of fine.

He came alongside past the golf course and I had to confess to running out of legs, he left me for dust, I would plead lights, luggage and lack of carbon but apparently I'm just getting old  ;D although he has to be one of the strongest riders I've ever encountered, I reckon he was touching 50 kph up the rise on Church Road into the wind  :o

This morning was very misty so had to work fairly had to keep warm resulting in more chasing down buses, now my legs ache  ::-)

* delete to fit viewpoint
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 13 April, 2016, 08:34:45 am
Today? Fookin' bootiful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 13 April, 2016, 08:47:34 am
Quote from: Ham on 13 April, 2016, 08:34:45 am
Today? Fookin' bootiful.

Yep, country roads, sunshine, a little traffic and other cyclists on the road both going my way and in the opposite direction. Wonderful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 13 April, 2016, 09:29:46 am
Grey and soggy underfoottyre here but at least the water was either stayin in the clouds or had already left it.

Almost collected a bin man who I didn't spot coming out of a driveway opposite the bin lorry. Didn't get that close but I should have been anticipating better instead of fixating on whether or not there were cars coming that would stop me overtaking the bin lorry. :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 13 April, 2016, 10:07:54 am
Oh dear, mcshroom, you should know by now, bin lorry = hazards nearby: bin men, cab doors, idiots overtaking and most of all, broken glass and other rubbish strewn over the road! Good job you collected neither bin man, puncture nor left over pizza!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 13 April, 2016, 10:43:26 am
Great sunny morning (shorts, ssjersey +arm wrms).  Was pulled out on in Steventon by driver who either didn't see me at all/ignored me; might be time to employ the MELTA strobe more often...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 13 April, 2016, 11:06:43 am
A beautiful morning to ride but a pity about all of the cars clogging the roads. Impatient school runners are so good at bringing traffic to a halt.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 13 April, 2016, 11:15:25 am
Managed back to back days commuting on the bicycle so that was interesting, was slow and very tired though.

Best bit, I seemed to have missed all the showers. It was also so warm that I overheated halfway and had to take off half the kit I was wearing!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 13 April, 2016, 01:09:12 pm
Hmm. I made several errors today.
1) specs + rain = blind
2) hood = dry (ish) + can't see anything behind without spinning your head like an owl
3) shower + towels =/= drying facilities
4) phone in chest pouch =>headphones in chain => no choons
5) laundering + downpour = disintegration of bridge pass
6) wet hair = sniggering colleagues "did you shower or just arrive like that?" answer = Yes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 13 April, 2016, 01:14:06 pm
Quote from: fboab on 13 April, 2016, 01:09:12 pm

6) wet hair = sniggering colleagues "did you shower or just arrive like that?" answer = Yes.
Are they morons? Wet hair in the north means you've stepped outside for 20s
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 14 April, 2016, 07:46:49 am
Late leaving last night so the first ride home with my commuting buddy for a while which descended into a game of lead outs and sprints for lights and signs, starting to feel the effects of being off the baccy (again  ::-) ).

Went for a sprint through the dip on Church Road this morning and my legs absolutely screamed at me, had enough left to win a game of SCR up Kings Road though, the guy behind obviously had the mist descend, the lights at Seymour Grove changed as I hit them, his was a clear red, cue much angry honking from all sides. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 14 April, 2016, 09:16:26 am
Nice ride in this morning, actually got held up a couple times by a van and a baby petrol tanker travelling slower than I wanted to go?! ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 14 April, 2016, 09:18:27 am
Some twat on a dutch bike decided to weave in and out of the cyclists without looking, nearly taking me out.

On the other hand he was bloody quick up Notting Hill Gate - so much so I thought he had a motor (he didn't) and took most of the other road bikes. Thankfully I could filter easily as my bike is narrower ( I know childish!)

Still glad I rode in, as I really did not feel like riding (I actually dont most mornings!)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 14 April, 2016, 09:37:43 am
A steady ride in, caught by three of five sets of pedestrian lights and two of two sets of traffic lights. Then delayed by school drop off traffic and inappropriate parking. However the weather was bright and sunny with little wind so I am now looking out the office window and wishing I was still riding.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 14 April, 2016, 11:59:03 am
Off to T*sco yesterday, four panniers and a saddle bag. I turned left at Russel Crescent and was followed round by a skip wagon. Cue some trepidation as I moved out of the door zone of the parked cars and turned right onto Massett's, which has lines of potholes up both sides, so I stay in Primary. Stop at the lights to turn left on Brighton Road, and he is still behind me. Green, through the pinch point, still there; I move as far left on the good surface as I can and wave him through. He passes wide and slow, and I took his number.

Rang his company that afternoon to compliment his driving. Patient, courteous, thank you!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 14 April, 2016, 12:03:08 pm
Bimbled. Was nice. Too hot in the gabba I put on cos of the rain when I started out!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 14 April, 2016, 12:51:50 pm
Calor tanker followed me all the way through Port Clarence. Good job, because if something had happened the locals would have eaten me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 14 April, 2016, 12:59:20 pm
Mini-"perfect storm" at east end of princes st this AM. Couple of trams screwing up lights cycle, resulting in sh1tloads of buses gridlocked, and blocking tram tracks. And me. Happy to wait normally but was stuck at some stinking exhaust this morn. I expect I hoovered up a lifetime of nox particles in that few mins.

Unrelated. There are loads of places now where the roads sinking/crumbling  away beside the tramlines: They have really good foundations, they shifted all the utilities to run alongside, peppered with service covers which all take the buses now. These are pretty much fecked now in many places. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 14 April, 2016, 08:38:21 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 14 April, 2016, 09:16:26 am
Nice ride in this morning, actually got held up a couple times by a van and a baby petrol tanker travelling slower than I wanted to go?! ;D

I didn't realise that babies ran on petrol.  Would explain all the noise and noxious emissions...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 14 April, 2016, 08:40:26 pm
Really nice ride home this evening, first ride of the year with exposed knees.   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 15 April, 2016, 08:03:18 am
Very grateful for the tailwind home last night, the left over from the day before's cream cake I polished off was definitely past its best  :sick:

Still feeling it this morning, tough going.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: QuentinX on 15 April, 2016, 08:56:35 am
Red light, red light, red light, red light.  :facepalm: Green light, green light, green light.  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 15 April, 2016, 09:13:40 am
overcast and sufficient precipitation to require glasses removal. However a smooth ride in with decent driving, and plenty of cyclists in both directions.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 15 April, 2016, 09:32:11 am
Dry, uneventful, Friday Legs
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 15 April, 2016, 09:57:56 am
Watched a cyclist nearly get wiped out by an arctic running the lights on Wandsworth Road/Cedars Road. He was turning left, over-ran the turn and crossed well into our side of the road. She was on the right of me, still well within the box.

Despite scrambling to get out if his way and nearly falling over her bike in the process the driver still felt it worth his while to shout abuse at her from within his cab.

Tried to contact the company - Jepson's to point out his moronic behaviour, but their website seems to be down.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 15 April, 2016, 10:05:44 am
Plodded in quite happily- totally uneventful!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 15 April, 2016, 01:26:11 pm
Absolutely smashing it down now in London. One may get wet on the way home tonight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 15 April, 2016, 05:56:56 pm
It was grim tonight in Manchester, but you probably knew that
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 15 April, 2016, 06:02:29 pm
very glad I deployed my overshoes and cape this afternoon for the ride home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 15 April, 2016, 06:13:34 pm
Really could have done without a cold northerly headwind on the way home. *shivers*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 15 April, 2016, 08:21:17 pm
First time on a bike for over 2 weeks on account of a back injury, and what do I get?

Sleet.
Yes, 40 minutes of heavy sleet all the way in this morning.

Cleared up by home-time, tho, and a day's worth of moving around had made my back much more betterer, so all in all, a better ride home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 15 April, 2016, 08:50:53 pm
Srsly heavy rain here in Londonton today.
The result?
Thanks to hydraulics, the road surfaces on my commute which were cracked, are now totally fubar'ed, and pot-holed (that never was a verb, was it?) to within an inch of their lives.
It is quite shocking to see how so much damage can be done in such a short period of time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 18 April, 2016, 07:56:33 am
An easy start thanks to the wind, could be tough later though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: aclucas on 18 April, 2016, 08:43:38 am
Beautiful sunny day down in the south. Cold, but lovely morning for a ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 18 April, 2016, 09:18:36 am
I'm claiming yesterday as my commute. My everyday commute doesn't count. Anyroad, with the Brighton Marathon taking place, the coastal road from Brighton to Woodingdean is closed to traffic (not cyclists at least) before the marathon runners come along that way. What a joy to cycle that road, all on your own – no traffic, no traffic noise. It's the one day of the year this EVER happens. A beautifully sunny day also helped.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 18 April, 2016, 09:25:35 am
Weather was nice but the cycling traffic was awful. Why does it always seem to be the women on shoppers that are dangers to themselves and others? I get the abuse and ire of others being in lycra on a "racing" bike but I am not the weaving, light jumping, oblivious one on the road!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 18 April, 2016, 09:54:41 am
A nice, bright, crisp morning for a ride to work. Unfortunate about the traffic volumes but at least they all played nicely round me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: BrianI on 18 April, 2016, 06:42:22 pm
Did the commute today, 10 mins in, 8 mins back, assisted by tail wind! Not in any way near a major commute as it's just 1.5 miles each way, 3 streets and a nip through the park!

Sent from my Tab2A7-10F using Tapatalk

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 18 April, 2016, 09:23:05 pm
Cold wind, but the sunshine drew me out for a little excursion into Wasdale on the way home this evening ;D

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5FsI_o0A-WM/VxU0BuVaGKI/AAAAAAAALr8/2bA9J3PtjuswjSFVJrL8kiW7FWoNEUIsQCCo/s640-Ic42/20160418_185921.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 19 April, 2016, 07:59:47 am
Not jealous at mcshroom. GIT.  ;D

Shades but no lamps this morning for this first time this year, spring is threatening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 19 April, 2016, 10:25:19 am
Pootle. Road was filled with nodders cutting people up. women driving SUVs they could barely control (observational sample only) and minicab drivers who are cretins. Otherwise, at least it wasn't wet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 19 April, 2016, 10:37:27 am
Quote from: mcshroom on 18 April, 2016, 09:23:05 pm
Cold wind, but the sunshine drew me out for a little excursion into Wasdale on the way home this evening ;D

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5FsI_o0A-WM/VxU0BuVaGKI/AAAAAAAALr8/2bA9J3PtjuswjSFVJrL8kiW7FWoNEUIsQCCo/s640-Ic42/20160418_185921.jpg)

I could go along the Limehouse Cut,not much difference from commuting in London really.

Conversation last week.
Me: That's an unmistakeable colour scheme (a brommie - lime green and purple)
He: Thanks
Me: And - matching sunnies!
He: That was an accident, I didn't mean it.

Conversation this am.
Me: What happened to the sunnies (new sunnies in white only)
He: After your comment last week I had to go and buy new ones. I should send you the bill

 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 19 April, 2016, 10:47:47 am
Another bright crisp still day, pitty about the driver who asked "Are you a Policeman" after I suggested she put her phone down and pay attention to the traffic she was queuing with.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 April, 2016, 01:03:02 pm
Me!

Attempting another restart.  This time riding roads I know well to Waterloo (pretty flat).  Did OK.  Hoping it wasn't just tailwind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 19 April, 2016, 01:14:44 pm
Not on the commute today, but a "heads up" for those lucky enough to use Southern trains...

Quote
Southern rail conductors vote to strike over supervisor row
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-36082600 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-36082600)
Conductors on Southern railway have voted to go on strike in a dispute over proposed changes to their role and the introduction of driver-only trains.
Dunno when, but be warned
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 19 April, 2016, 01:47:21 pm
Quote from: clarion on 19 April, 2016, 01:03:02 pm
Me!

Attempting another restart.  This time riding roads I know well to Waterloo (pretty flat).  Did OK.  Hoping it wasn't just tailwind.

 :D :thumbsup: :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 20 April, 2016, 08:31:41 am
Very grumpy this morning so rode the best bike, this was improving matters until I confirmed that my post is slipping when I hit a manhole edge at 50kph. The clamp sides are meeting, guess that's me making a shim this evening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 20 April, 2016, 08:46:35 am
E by gum burram cowd
E by gum burram cowd
Me 'onds're like stone
Me feet like lead
I onna bin warm sin' I left me bed
I'll skip rayt up t' fire
As near as I'm allowed
Then I might get gradely warm at last
E by gum burram cowd


Where did that bloody frost come from?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 20 April, 2016, 09:04:51 am
What frost? Bright, sunny, still day this morning and I even saw a Kestrel hovering* over the nature area.  :thumbsup:


*Must have had whatever wind was behind me as the kestrel was head on, tail fanned, wings fluttering.

***edited to account for Tim's pedantry***
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 20 April, 2016, 09:24:24 am
Pretty sure this mornings ride will be the high point of my day
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 20 April, 2016, 09:30:46 am
Bit fiddly at the end as I had to meet a friend to retrieve my security pass and there was a bit of miscommunication about the meeting place. Lovely sunny ride in, though I'm still in multiple layers, it's not warm out there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 20 April, 2016, 09:33:22 am
Quote from: sg37409 on 20 April, 2016, 09:24:24 am
Pretty sure this mornings ride will be the high point of my day

Either it was a great ride or you're anticipating having a crap day. Hopefully the former  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 20 April, 2016, 10:12:14 am
Oncoming vehicle tried to make a right-turn through me.
Much shouting, swerving and screeching of tyres.

I was buzzing for the remaining 3 miles to work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 20 April, 2016, 01:12:08 pm
Quote from: Pingu on 20 April, 2016, 09:33:22 am
Quote from: sg37409 on 20 April, 2016, 09:24:24 am
Pretty sure this mornings ride will be the high point of my day

Either it was a great ride or you're anticipating having a crap day. Hopefully the former  :thumbsup:

It certainly was a lovely run in. A crisp morning where you can press on a bit without becoming a sweat stain. Little bit of the latter also applies though it has to be said.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 20 April, 2016, 01:25:05 pm
Quote from: matthew on 20 April, 2016, 09:04:51 am
What frost? Bright, sunny, still day this morning and I even saw a Kestrel hovering* over the nature area.  :thumbsup:


Must have had whatever wind was behind me as the kestrel was head on, tail fanned, wings fluttering.
Unresolved asterisk error. Re do from start.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 20 April, 2016, 06:49:23 pm
Lovely ride each way (and at lunchtime but that's not commuting).  On the way home was overtaken by a roadie using aerobars.  Not a common site round here. Saw about seven other cyclists on the way in which is a lot for these parts.
But the best bit was going through the village. Young lad cycling to the secondary school in the next village. I nodded at him, as one does. The grin on his face at being acknowledged by a 'proper' cyclist was wonderful. Made my morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 21 April, 2016, 08:05:13 am
Quote from: SteveC on 20 April, 2016, 06:49:23 pm
I nodded at him, as one does. The grin on his face at being acknowledged by a 'proper' cyclist was wonderful.

I like that, and faux racing with the kids hanging around outside the fire station, mind you I'm still about 14 in my head.

More sun this morning, starting to wonder if I'm waking up in the right city.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 21 April, 2016, 11:18:49 am
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/men/recreational-cycling/drivers-get-out-of-my-cycle-box/

Lots of white van drivers in London deliberately drive and stop into these boxes as they view us as nuisance in their rush to get to the back of a traffic queue or next set of lights as we alway ride or rather amble to the same point without having to rush.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 21 April, 2016, 11:59:37 am
To be honest, I avoid the ASL boxes as a cyclist, preferring to hang back a couple vehicle lengths. We all know, from a driver's psychological viewpoint, that them at the front should, by virtue of their pole-position, be scampering off from the lights, not only 'sharpish' (ala: Santa Pod), but as soon as it's turned green. Well, them's my observational views of drivers' behaviour in relation to other vehicle users at traffic lights.

… even, as you so rightly say … when, a few hundred yards further down the road there's another set of lights.

Just to finish, commute was all of two minutes for me as usual. In my head, I'm a fit as a flea from cycling this distance.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 21 April, 2016, 12:07:52 pm
Interesting categorisation at the DT that an article on ASLs goes in "Recreational Cycling" which is itself a subcategory of "Men". Especially interesting when it ends up here in a thread on Commuting.

I thought this paragraph:
Quote
It may sound like a pedantic, pathetic grievance (that's certainly the impression you get if you ever knock on a window and mention it to a driver), but the cycling box is sacred; a safe haven for vulnerable, defenceless bike riders. It’s where we can wait without a nudge or a honk and set ourselves for the charge to the next lights 100 metres on. The bike box gives us space to breathe and ensures we don't lurk in dangerous blind spots between vehicles.
was bordering on (probably unintentional) parody.

Or simply reflecting London's bubble. Round here certainly most drivers leave the bike boxes empty.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 21 April, 2016, 11:30:14 pm
Quote from: Riggers on 21 April, 2016, 11:59:37 am
To be honest, I avoid the ASL boxes as a cyclist

+1 to this. Generally don't filter, happy to wait in line most times. I ride in traffic thats probably not as gridlocked as in london though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 22 April, 2016, 08:58:08 am
600th commute for current job. Used my audax bike rather than the hybrid for a wee change.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: QuentinX on 22 April, 2016, 09:10:43 am
Two people turned left immediately after overtaking me and then someone overtook me slowly, looked me in the eye as he did it, and then filtered left immediately. Probably my own fault for having 1999 going through my head.  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 22 April, 2016, 09:44:11 am
Glorious sunshine this morning and very little wind. Stuck in a little extra loop to our other site gate because I wanted to ride for a bit longer. Still colder than it looks though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 22 April, 2016, 11:23:09 am
Quote from: QuentinX on 22 April, 2016, 09:10:43 am
Two people turned left immediately after overtaking me and then someone overtook me slowly, looked me in the eye as he did it, and then filtered left immediately. Probably my own fault for having 1999 going through my head.  :facepalm:


You may want to consider using Kings Road instead of Chester Road and picking up Talbot Road either off the quadrant or by cutting round the back of the cricket ground, has the added advantage of making the Robin Hood junction much easier on the way home. The downside is the dash past Stretford Mall - take a strong road position and force them to use the other lane to overtake - ignore the 18 inch wide cycle lane.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 22 April, 2016, 12:58:26 pm
Good news : the Toy Bridge has a new gear box and is open.
Bad news : I don't and there was a headwind all the way out to the coast.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 22 April, 2016, 02:10:06 pm
Left the house with a bad case of Friday legs this morning. By the time I got to the bottom of the High Street however, I had spotted a cyclist ahead. Legs started churning and I followed the cyclist all the way to work- 8.6 miles including an ascent of Quarry Wood Road at an average of 17.1mph. Turned out the cyclist was a figment of my imagination though ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MagnusOpus on 22 April, 2016, 02:57:23 pm
Very nearly ended up on the bonnet of a car on the way home last night.....

Turning right off a main road, car waiting to turn right from the side road....I signal and move to the right of the lane....as I'm right in front of her and starting to turn in she starts to pull out....and just keeps on coming...forcing me to abort the right turn and attempt to outsprint her.....

a kick of adrenaline and time starts to slooooow down.....the whole time I can see her looking out her drivers side window.....as she completes her manoeuvre I expect her to look forward and see the cyclist slap bang in the middle of the road just a few feet in front of her...but nope...she's still looking out the side window....now pretty much at where she has come from instead of where she is going....and gaining on me....

I peel right in an attempt to get out of the way but I'm not going to make it past her if she keeps on coming, and if she puts her foot down it's likely to get painful....shouting doesn't seem to be getting her attention and I start to pick a comfy looking spot on the bonnet to bail onto....and then...finally....she looks where she is going....well within 6 inches of taking me down.....

As she stops, so do I, right in front of her, savouring the rather shocked look on her face....I wait for her to wind down the window and politely suggest she might look where she is going in future.....

Flew the rest of the way home, high on adrenaline and disbelief
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 22 April, 2016, 04:24:46 pm
Ridiculously close pass from some pillock in a tatty little black car - actually made me wobble.  And swear out loud.  But that's dull... and this was a much better bit of a commute later in the day.

(https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xtl1/v/t1.0-0/p261x260/13007310_10153978059631839_6275574894122638999_n.jpg?oh=a654af23968cd9ce31c91a110d71993c&oe=57A222EC)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 22 April, 2016, 04:42:53 pm
I spy a rocket lolly!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 22 April, 2016, 04:54:20 pm
Scientifically proven to make you go faster.   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 22 April, 2016, 04:58:41 pm
Yesterday.  Northerly wind means a sidewind on the first 5 or so miles which means the scent of bluebells is wafted over the road from the wood just past South Farm. Very pleasant, very bucolic.  Et in arcadia ego.

I will have to try and remember this over the next couple of months as I ride through the rank sweetness of the dozens and dozens and bloody dozens of acres of oil seed rape that is starting to come into full flower.  Bloody awful stuff.  It makes rotten honey as well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 22 April, 2016, 05:43:21 pm
Had to stop on the way home as my front light came off. Actually the metal mount snapped in two and the Cyo was dangling on the end of the dynamo wire.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 25 April, 2016, 09:18:53 am
Not got a lot today, had enough to sprint to catch on the back of a bus at Irlam but couldn't repeat the trick at Stretford so decided to pootle, much to the delight of someone who got his scalp going over the canal bridge.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 26 April, 2016, 08:16:48 am
A crisp sunny pootle involving a walk across the locks since I seem to have lost my bottle for cycling over the lock gates, maybe I'm growing up  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 26 April, 2016, 08:43:14 am
Rode home last night through torrential icy rain mixed with hailstones (I must be mad - I actually enjoyed it!). This morning was bright sunshine and bloomin' frost.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 26 April, 2016, 09:31:49 am
After a day of driving up and down the M6 for work, I was glad to be back on the bike this morning. Sunny but cold. I'm back in my primaloft jacket - I thought it was nearly May!
Nice tailwind on the way in this morning that I'll have to pay for tonight.

In other good news, unlike the last two rides none of the aluminium bits screwed onto the bike snapped :-\

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 26 April, 2016, 03:58:44 pm
I'm a bit wary of changing into my shorts for the ride home. We've just had 5 minutes of light, wet, fluffy sno.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ruthie on 26 April, 2016, 05:07:11 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 26 April, 2016, 09:31:49 am
I'm back in my primaloft jacket - I thought it was nearly May!


Is that that nice blue one that really suits you?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 26 April, 2016, 06:36:13 pm
Quote from: Ruthie on 26 April, 2016, 05:07:11 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 26 April, 2016, 09:31:49 am
I'm back in my primaloft jacket - I thought it was nearly May!


Is that that nice blue one that really suits you?

It's that jacket yes, though however well it suits me I'd prefer not to be wearing it cycling in late April. :-*

The wind on the way home was bitter, and I finished in a snow shower. I don't think this is a night for extra miles despite the sun that's now shining again. Please can we have spring back?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 26 April, 2016, 07:21:22 pm
Some Proper Weather Skies on the way home tonight.
Others will have had storms with lightning and cold stuff falling on them - I could see it from a distance.
I managed to avoid it by, I think, a whisker.
But, as McS says, it is mighty cold out there.
I'm beginning to wonder whether sending the winter part of my duvet on its summer vacation a couple of weeks ago was a bit premature.

ETA  :o It is 3° C outdoors now, dropping to 0°C overnight. I think the CH is going back on.
Now!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 26 April, 2016, 08:06:37 pm
It had finished snowing, got to enjoy the stinging form of frozen water instead. Ouch.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 27 April, 2016, 07:52:34 am
A big threatening cloud loomed up as I was leaving yesterday, but it departed without dropping anything. I was most disappointed*

This morning was another bright and sunny affair, marred somewhat by frost and a biting head wind.



*May contain traces of lie
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 27 April, 2016, 08:31:04 am
Yep still cold.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 27 April, 2016, 10:14:39 am
First day back after a long weekend in the Lakes, bright, crisp, and still. Beautiful but the new road works and temporary traffic lights were annoying.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 27 April, 2016, 12:52:32 pm
My commute would be much nicer without the school run drivers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 27 April, 2016, 05:33:20 pm
School would be much nicer without the school run drivers!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 27 April, 2016, 05:49:11 pm
Perfectly timed.
40 minutes of heavy sleet and hailstones on the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 27 April, 2016, 05:56:08 pm
Still sunny, still cold. Brr
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 28 April, 2016, 01:42:08 am
My first commute in a long time and it wasn't good; I got a rear puncture on the way in.
I tried the "pump and ride, pump and ride" technique and it worked for a few miles before I decided to try CO2. The result with the 1st cartridge was good so I used another. That wasn't so good; it blew the tyre off the rim and popped the tube. By then I was only about a mile from work so I pushed it the rest of the way. I wasn't late but I'd rather have got there earlier.
I wasn't due to finish work until 23.30 so I realised that I'd have to fix the flat since there's no public transport that I'm aware of at that time. (My preferred option would have been to get the bus/tram home and collect the bike in the car and sort it out at home.)
As luck would have it, I passed the end of my road on the route so I popped home to pick up my track pump and a spare tyre. It was tempting to get the Disco instead and use that to ride home but it would have been frowned upon on H&S grounds if I'd put it in the back of the van.
I thought that the puncture had been caused by glass from either fly-tipping on the cycle path near Kenworthy Woods or from the re-cycling centre in Sharston (the road glitters in the sunshine) but it turned out to be a piece of wire that had got through the tread and protection belt.
Fixing it didn't take long but getting the wheel back on was a pain because the spring from the chain tensioner got caught and it took me ages to unjam it (I commute on the Rohloff bike). My problems weren't over then though. The spare tube had a dodgy valve and it was letting out almost as much air as the pump was putting in. A vigorous bout of pumping that had my arms burning got enough air in, or so I hoped. Thank goodness I'd picked up the track pump; I don't think my smaller pump would have worked.
Another issue was that there was/is no rim tape on the wheel. WTF ? I've no idea why I didn't put any on after I had the wheel rebuilt  :-[.
After this catalogue of errors, I decided to ride home via Cheadle Hulme, Cheadle and Didsbury as an experiment. It seems a good route (at least at 0.30) and I got home at 01.00.
I'm going to have a lie-in tomorrow/today and, until I can get some new tubes and rim tape, I'll either drive in or use the Disco.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 28 April, 2016, 08:15:06 am
It's snowing, I'm in nearly full winter kit, its so cold that the canal is steaming and coming the other way is a guy in short sleeves, shorts and track mitts  :o Get to work and b*gg*r me there's another one, mind you this one had no guards, the full shaking thing going on, was an interesting shade of blue and heading for A&E  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 28 April, 2016, 08:22:58 am
Ice on the puddles and that cold cold air found every gap in my layers.
Loads of 'proper' cyclists out, all overtaking me :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 28 April, 2016, 08:27:23 am
Another bright frosty morning, though without yesterdays' poxy biting wind. All the puddles were solid, the grass white and crispy, parked cars silvery-sparkly yet the sun was cooking my knees.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 28 April, 2016, 08:55:20 am
Light frost on the cars, bright sunshine and no wind at all.  I went to shorts a couple of weeks ago when we had the nice weather, and haven't gone back, I don't feel the cold that much I think. Beautiful morning to ride in today. Being smaller than a GBFO 4*4, just have to be careful of the low sun behind me on dirty windscreens.

I've somehow avoided any rain/hail/snow showers in last few days others have been reporting.  RESULT !
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 28 April, 2016, 01:55:03 pm
Lovely bright, crisp morning but bugger me if I didn't need a set of replacement toes on arrival.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 28 April, 2016, 03:35:44 pm
Quote from: fuzzy (retd.) AAGE on 28 April, 2016, 01:55:03 pm
Lovely bright, crisp morning but bugger me if I didn't need a set of replacement toes on arrival.

yep, I dressed for winter with my fleecy boots and avoided this but I suspect I will bake on the way home as payback.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 28 April, 2016, 04:22:24 pm
Yesterday, on the way home, was the wettest and probably least pleasant commute I've had for several years.

Foolishly, I waited at work for the storm to pass, but eventually decided it wasn't going to do anything beyond flashes of lightning and thunder.  After about ten minutes of dry roads, it started to rain, and continued doing that heavily for the hour or so that it took me to get home.

It wasn't so much the rain, but that it was barely above freezing, as witnessed by the hail that I also had to suffer for a short while.  My hands, feet and face were painful from the cold.  I had to wear my slightly heavier shoes this morning, since the other pair are still soaking wet.  I'm not sure it they'll have dried out for tomorrow!

Not that I'm paranoid, but yesterday started off sunny, as today did, and then got a bit gloomy, with showers forecast later, as they have been for today . . .

I am not staying at work very late today!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 29 April, 2016, 08:29:35 am
Last night as I left I could see the storm closing in so I was charging down Kings Road, not quick enough though, stopped at the lights outside Stretford Mall and FLASH, BOOM and huge lumps of ice fell out the sky even through my gloves and buff it stung.

Finally got a bit of help off the wind this morning, its been a tough week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 29 April, 2016, 08:50:08 am
A beautiful bright sunny morning with no frost. The biting head wind was a cruel touch
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 29 April, 2016, 09:22:14 am
Started in sleet and finished in heavy rain. Waterproofs mainly did their job.

There's some very white looking fells over Ennerdale/Wasdale way :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 29 April, 2016, 07:07:45 pm
The B1228 between 8:30 and 9:30 is hideous.  And by the time I got to work my feet were so cold that it hurt to walk...

Then I missed the brief bit of outdoor brightness for the return trip due to one of those jobs that just has to be done and then rather a lot of unintended extra time at the coalface.  Then a colleague was kind (https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=27765.msg2023313#msg2023313).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 30 April, 2016, 09:28:06 am
I am now classifying my rides by the number of muppets I encounter.

Yesterday's commute to work was a 3 muppet ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 30 April, 2016, 03:38:43 pm
Yesterday, for the first time ever in eight years of cycling this route, I met a cyclist going in the opposite direction on the Hermitage Path (https://goo.gl/maps/BiUBd5R8S9v).  I've had cyclists going in the same direction, in front or behind me, but I've never met another cyclist coming towards me.

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/small.php?size=320&file=20160429_HermitagePath.jpg) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/20160429_HermitagePath.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jakob W on 30 April, 2016, 05:24:32 pm
Did you high-five them?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 30 April, 2016, 06:39:42 pm
Quote from: Jakob W on 30 April, 2016, 05:24:32 pm
Did you high-five them?

After a ten hour day, which was one of my shorter days this week, and only a couple of miles from home, I was just concentrating on the remainder of the journey.  It's also possible they didn't feel the same way. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 30 April, 2016, 07:31:48 pm
Yeah, they probably meet cyclists going the other way all the time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 01 May, 2016, 09:08:03 pm
Quote from: Kim on 30 April, 2016, 07:31:48 pm
Yeah, they probably meet cyclists going the other way all the time.
Some people have all the luck. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 02 May, 2016, 08:55:26 am
Heavy rain.   Bank holiday meant traffic lighter, hence faster.  Buses able to nip in and out much easier for them,   altogether, bit of a shit commute today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 03 May, 2016, 08:06:47 am
Taking it easy, enjoying it being a bit warmer  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 03 May, 2016, 10:19:06 am
Quote from: sg37409 on 02 May, 2016, 08:55:26 am
Heavy rain.   Bank holiday meant traffic lighter, hence faster.  Buses able to nip in and out much easier for them,   altogether, bit of a shit commute today.

Dry on my return as I hoped. Low sun on wet roads, so the motons couldn't see. Its not going to stop them though, just higher risk of crashes.   Sitting at a set of lights, heading into the sun, a car beside me which must have been a metre or so behind the car in front pulled away when the filter (for straight on) went green. The car in front waited correctly for his LH filter.  So the moton just drives into the back of him.   Just like that.  With some force too.     "Yeah, I cant see, but everyone else seems to be moving, so here I go.    Ooopps!"   WTF !   It was only a metre or so from my leg, and made me think just how dodgy the rest of the ride into the sun could be.   :(

This morning, rain to start, sunshine to finish. (at least it was behind me)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 03 May, 2016, 01:30:52 pm
One day I'm going to walk out of my front door and be pleasantly surprised by the lack of frost. But not today. Brrrrr
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 04 May, 2016, 08:07:19 am
Last night was tag team attacked by a pair of milkshake bottles in Moss Side, I'd spotted them rolling in the wind on an intersect course, got the front wheel to the right of the first one and the left of the second, was expecting the back wheel to hit the first one and kick up, wasn't expecting the first one to bounce off the back wheels of the overtaking with-a-fag-paper-clearance bus and end up directly under the descending back wheel. Exciting stuff.

Summer shoes for the first time this morning  :thumbsup: 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 04 May, 2016, 08:21:04 am
It felt weird last night to ride home in short sleeves.

A beautiful ride in today. Clear blue sky, bright warm sun, absolutely 0 wind, flowers in the verges, green trees full of birdies singing, and only one patch of frost! Y'know, I think spring might be on it's way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MagnusOpus on 04 May, 2016, 09:34:40 am
Lovely this morning, even quite warm in the sun.....

I'm really looking forward to the home run, though every time I do that this year the temperature drops back to freezing, the wind whips up, and the gods start throwing hail stones and sleet in my face
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 04 May, 2016, 10:08:40 am
Last night I tried (and failed) to climb the steep hill out the back of Gosforth on the way home. Strava tops out at 20.2% but I think it's steeper. Also almost picked up a sheepdog at 25mph when it ran out of a farmyard barking at me. Nice to be out in the sun though.

Today I had to be in early, and it led to some SCR as I don't usually see other cyclists on my route. Overtaking someone just before we hit the exposed windy stretch was a bit silly, I should have done what he did and tucked in behind for the tow over the next mile. Fun though :)

Can it warm up a bit please? Still got a cold wind blowing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 04 May, 2016, 10:33:53 am
Brought the bike in on the train today so I'm all set to ride home. Only the third ride this year and the first commute!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 04 May, 2016, 10:51:09 am
Really nice and sunny.  Someone pulled out on me from a side street, but I managed to just stop in time - teenage passenger looked mortified when I politely suggested that the driver 'look properly please'.  Someone cut it a tad fine getting through pinch point before me, I gave a turning right/give me space gesture, and he must have been looking in his mirror as I could see some gesticulation going on...  A while later he'd dropped someone off and was coming back up the road, cue him making 'furious wrist movements' at me.  Funny how people react like this - I just smiled, and couldn't be bothered to follow him to a security gate...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 05 May, 2016, 08:19:04 am
Felt very slow today, just generally hard work, and I don't seem to be able get rid of TEH HUNGER lately  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 05 May, 2016, 08:39:48 am
Today was the years first outing for the Trek Stache 29er.
Today was the years first comedy off road off ::-)

Ascending the tarmac of Quarry Wood Road and, just shy of the summit is a track that cuts off to the right into the woods. Quite a steep section of single track for about 10 meters before it tops out. Just short of the top is a little step up/ root across the trail. I am standing and pedaling when the front wheel hits the root and the bike stops and starts to topple left. I have my weight on the left pedal and my frantic but futile unclipping attempts see me roll into the bushes at the side of the track playing dead ants with the Stache still clipped to me ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 05 May, 2016, 10:06:56 am
Short sleeves again last night. I had to stop to take of my gilet as well.

When I unzipped my fleece on arrival this morning I discovered I had forgotten to put on my sweatshirt. I hadn't noticed.

 It's spring!                                                                                             
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 05 May, 2016, 10:59:06 am
Cracking ride home yesterday. Perfect weather. Pub stop for a quick pint.

Bit of comedy off road including a dismount in order to cross a hyoooge puddle via car tyres and planks of wood.

Nearly went arse over tea kettle into the puddle but kept upright.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 06 May, 2016, 07:33:08 am
First time down to one layer on the return yesterday.  This morning was the first time in sandals since December - strange to think we've had to wait till May to come close to December's early morning temperatures. And even then I had socks on (until the lay-by near work, where I took them off in case I saw anybody I knew).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 06 May, 2016, 08:17:22 am
Just cruising along, hope the weather forecast for this afternoon is correct, I really fancy a warm tailwind ride*

I know, it'll be my own fault
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 06 May, 2016, 08:31:03 am
Managed to stay upright this morning :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 06 May, 2016, 10:37:47 am
Beering, so Brompton/Train.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 06 May, 2016, 10:49:26 am
Beering so couldn't ride strait? ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 06 May, 2016, 11:30:31 am
Nekkid legs for the first time this year.  :thumbsup:

Cruise season is upon us:
(https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7174/26780897891_c4c72d0363_b.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 06 May, 2016, 11:32:49 am
Rode home in a t-shirt last night!

It was overcast this morning and felt much cooler without the sun on my knees
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 06 May, 2016, 10:18:30 pm
Took the pimped Brompton.  It's faster than the usual commuting bike.  Unfortunately the local chavs delight in smashing glass bottles all over the psyclepaths, so any bike other than the usual commuter (which has M+ tyres) means a slightly less peaceful road route.  I'm not a fan of psyclepaths but my route to work uses the sort that cut straight across parkland, and save time and distance.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 09 May, 2016, 09:20:07 am
Tried the CS3 along Lower Thames Street this morning. Awesome. Frickin' awesome.

Up until now I've been ambivalent towards the CS schemes and the patchy quality of implementation. I've always been happy riding London streets, so the CS were always mainly for "other people". But the Lower Thames section is absolutely brilliant. Two lanes of car park traffic given over to bikes to swish through town, turning off where you need. All it needs now is the same to happen to Euston/Marylebone Road  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 09 May, 2016, 09:51:29 am
After taking my jacket off during the ride home on Friday I left it behind this morning. Hopefully I won't pay for that this afternoon when I ride home.

Also last week I was the first week without the longs, today was shorts rather than 3/4s
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 09 May, 2016, 12:54:05 pm
Friday's commute home, I came off the bike, thanks to the spangly new cycle farcility Waltham Forest CC have implemented along both sides of Blackhorse Lane.
They've taken ~ 1.6m from each side of the road and given it over to a dedicated bike lane. Resurfaced it, and the adjacent pavement. Made it raised from the road by around 100mm, segregated it from the pedestrian bit by a kerbette of 30mm or so (I'll come back to this, shortly).
The effect that this has had on the road is obvs it has narrowed the amount available to motorised traffic - to the point that at its narrowest, two busses travelling in opposite directions will struggle to pass each other. Given the industrial estates which branch off this road, the HGV content of the traffic is considerable, all of which struggles with the narrowness of the road.
When I use this road in the mornings, I am going against the flow of most of the traffic, and TBH, I've never seen  significant amount of cyclists travelling in the opposite direction, so I confess to being slightly surprised that WCC elected to re-allocate this much road space to cyclists.
 Anyhow, the facility has been more or less fully open for about three weeks, and to be fair, I thought I'd give it a go.
What's it like?
Well, thanks to a massive building site at the south end of the road, most of the muck that is flung off the lorry tyres as they leave the site, ends up -  guess where.
Peds behave as you would expect them to, and some (not all) are prone to wandering from the pedestrian bit into the bit which has bikes painted on it every 50m or so.
Last week I saw my first cyclist casualty, lying on his back in the lane, with two or three pedestrians standing over him - no sign of any vehicle, so I'm assuming the collision was betwen him and one of the peds. Maybe, maybe not.
My brief experience of using this lane is that it is not particularly safe. Where it ends, in two places it drops you back into the traffic, where it's necessary to look over your shoulder to see what's coming up behind you just as you encounter a side turning which cars are turning in and out of. FFS! Who thought that was a good idea?
As I mentioned, there are many industrial estates, and a petrol station which are accessed by crossing the bike lane at right angles. Drivers trying to join the road from these pull up where they can best see the traffic. This happens to be in the cycle lane, effectively blocking it to cyclists.
I cannot safely maintain the sort of speed I'd use on the road in the cycle lane because, as I've mentioned, wandering peds.

Last Friday, on the way home, someone had planted a van-mounted cherry picker in the cycle lane, and was doing some maintenance on the streetlights, I think. No warning signs, no cones.
I'm motoring along in the cycle lane at what I regard a safe speed when I notice this. I'm not about to drop off the kerb to my right, as I'd need to check for what was coming up behind me, and I'm not into bunny hopping my Ksyriums over kerbs of that height.
So, seeing as there were no peds in the ped bit I elected to make my way round the van using that.
Remember the 30mm kerbette?
Yes. You cannot cross this at a shallow angle, and neither the cycle path or the ped bit are wide enough to approcah the kerbette at anything remotely close to a right angle.
So I received an unscheduled flying lesson, landing using a combination of right wrist and shoulder.

As cycle facilities go, it is pi$$ poor, and has done nothing to enhance my journey along that road.
I'm not keen to use the road on account of GERROFFTHEROADANDONTHECYCLELANEYOUKHAN!!!
But I think I may have to.

We have a few cyclists at work, but most people drive. Unsurprisingly, most of the comments from the drivers about the new facility, seem to be focussed on the cyclists being responsible for the facility having been built.

This should've probably gone in the rant thread.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 09 May, 2016, 03:00:43 pm
Ouch! sorry to hear.

WF do have form.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ruthie on 09 May, 2016, 05:48:48 pm
Bummer.  Made worse by the fact that you probably paid for the farclepath.

Hope the bruises heal soon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 09 May, 2016, 06:14:11 pm
Yoiks!  I aten't used it yet but may have to tomorrow, depending on weather and how my motor-care fares in its MOT.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 09 May, 2016, 07:48:55 pm
Very sunny and warm. Went down to Ravenglass for a pint in the Ratty Arms before heading home 8)

(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/G9t44m-Q5ZnpzNWpBKox7JfdgoLhwzywxacqDKFtet0P32Zfwirit8xKjNGeWk9qLnfG=w1043-h500-no)

The Ratty Arms must be the only place where you have cycle racks set up for Ordinaries:-
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5VV1wJskj6U/VzDZN2f08zI/AAAAAAAALtU/4dlAKjt-rNwXJO1H7GNuRnh9xrivzHq8ACCo/s640/20160509_174934.jpg)

Windy out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 09 May, 2016, 08:14:47 pm
My commute in was hard work but fun. Lots of really polite careful passes by motorists. Enough of a headwind to make it a workout.
And, Mr other cycle commuter, I would have caught you if the temporary traffic lights hadn't changed!
But I now now where you work so there will no doubt be other chances.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 09 May, 2016, 09:47:23 pm
Quote from: matthew on 09 May, 2016, 09:51:29 am
After taking my jacket off during the ride home on Friday I left it behind this morning. Hopefully I won't pay for that this afternoon when I ride home.

And so I promptly got wet riding home. At least it wasn't cold.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 10 May, 2016, 08:10:22 am
Quote from: Jurek on 09 May, 2016, 12:54:05 pm
Friday's commute home, I came off the bike, thanks to the spangly new cycle farcility Waltham Forest CC have implemented along both sides of Blackhorse Lane.
Might be an idea to tell WF council or maybe the local cycling campaign, if you haven't done already..one or both of them should be monitoring the new infrastructure.
The fact that there's not a lot of cycling traffic at the moment along that road won't necessarily have been a factor in the decision to create the cycle lane.  WF is a "mini Holland" borough, so they'll be looking to increase cycling significantly through what they are doing, not create space for what they have already got, which will be pretty low numbers.  I am guessing that the idea behind it will be "build it and they will come" which has worked in other settings.  However, it sounds as though what they have put in is less than satisfactory and they need to know that and do something about it. Sub standard infrastructure is worse than no infrastructure at all. 
   I've been using the new lanes in central London and over Vauxhall Bridge on my recent commutes.  And these I really love, despite a lifetime riding as a "vehicular cyclist" since before I even knew what one was.  I have used them with lots of trainees, who also love them.  By combining bits of the new Quietway with them, it's possible for quite a few commutes from my bit of South East London into the centre of London to be completed without having to negotiate even one nasty junction or really busy road.  And the quality of the routes is generally good, apart from a couple of niggles we're still hoping to get the authorities to sort. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 10 May, 2016, 01:08:19 pm
a damp ride in where my heart rate picked up twice.

first a rather close pass on approach to a right hand bend with oncoming traffic. Subsequently caught the driver twice queuing for a junction and when he was diverted for a road closure that a cyclist can still get through. Informed the driver that his right and centre brake lights were out.

The second I was too slow to react to, a lady in an XC90 passed me while I was in the cycle lane, only she was slowing and had her left hand indicator on. I should have slammed an emergency stop in but didn't, fortunately she slowed to a stop in the traffic lane and then turned into the driveway behind me. Why she came past I don't know.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 10 May, 2016, 05:33:06 pm
teeshirt and gillet with shorts on the way in, which was a bit chilly to start with into the easterly.
Hoping its too hot on the return.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 10 May, 2016, 06:30:27 pm
Back on the bike after another long lay-off due to back knackerage.

This week, the wind has been ass-backwards.
Tailwinds on the way out heading West, and headwinds on the way home heading East!

First proper warm commute in summer top and shorts.
Slight chill first thing, warmed up quick enough.
Very warm ride home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 10 May, 2016, 11:26:59 pm
My 1st commute on the Disco and I went through Disbury and Cheadle instead of up Styal Road. Both are great improvements and even when it's fully road-worthy again, I can't see the Rohloff bike getting much of a look-in. That puts its future in doubt; why do I want a bike that I don't particularly enjoy riding ?
It was raining on the way in and cold and windy on the way home but I just managed to dodge the rain.
Distance wise, both old and new routes are around 18 miles.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 11 May, 2016, 02:41:52 am
Quote from: matthew on 09 May, 2016, 09:47:23 pm
Quote from: matthew on 09 May, 2016, 09:51:29 am
After taking my jacket off during the ride home on Friday I left it behind this morning. Hopefully I won't pay for that this afternoon when I ride home.

And so I promptly got wet riding home. At least it wasn't cold.

snap, rain started just as I was getting changed to leave. still warm and wet is not too bad as it is a short journey
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 11 May, 2016, 02:44:26 am
Quote from: matthew on 10 May, 2016, 01:08:19 pm
a damp ride in where my heart rate picked up twice.

first a rather close pass on approach to a right hand bend with oncoming traffic. Subsequently caught the driver twice queuing for a junction and when he was diverted for a road closure that a cyclist can still get through. Informed the driver that his right and centre brake lights were out.

The second I was too slow to react to, a lady in an XC90 passed me while I was in the cycle lane, only she was slowing and had her left hand indicator on. I should have slammed an emergency stop in but didn't, fortunately she slowed to a stop in the traffic lane and then turned into the driveway behind me. Why she came past I don't know.
highway code rule 1
get in front of the cyclist
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 11 May, 2016, 06:53:49 am
Bah, commute bike has a puncture. Pumped it up and whilst it didn't deflate instantly it was a fair old hiss so wasn't sure it would last to the station to allow me to fix it at lunch.

Was running a bit late but just had time to switch toolkits and get the nice bike out. It's very handy having a spare.

Commute bike seemed fine when I put it away a few days ago.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 11 May, 2016, 10:06:23 am
Wet ride in, I wish drivers would stay out of the cycle lane.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 11 May, 2016, 10:09:49 am
Still dry up here though it's cooled down a bit.

Would have been nice if there had been any warning the cycle cut-through was going to be shut when I got to it. I sneaked through a private gate hidden further along but from the tyre tracks other cyclists have had a pretty long diversion this morning.

If it had been a road that was closed there would have been signs in advance where you could easily divert. Obviously cyclists/pedestrians aren't worthy of the same level of consideration. ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 11 May, 2016, 10:09:56 am
On consideration, I probably didn't endear myself to the knobhead pedestrian who wandered into the cycle lane by the Tower of London, against the red pedestrian signal, causing some interesting oh-shit-wet-braking, by shouting at them "I'll get you next time!"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 11 May, 2016, 12:14:11 pm
After a few days off it was wet and very hard work, not feeling the love atm.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wowbagger on 11 May, 2016, 06:52:52 pm
I don't do any cycle commuting now, sadly. However, this interrupted me today.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-essex-36264957

 :o >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TPMB12 on 11 May, 2016, 11:11:28 pm
Not today but yesterday a cyclist was riding through the filter lane of roadworks (one lane was roadworks the other was a filter lane with traffic control lights at each end). The rider was riding against the flow of traffic and the lights but between the cones and the roadworks security fences. You know the kind of fences held up by large concrete blocks sticking out into the space behind the cones. There is only enough space for a bus width so nowhere for the cyclist to go if there had been an obstruction in this narrow coned off strip. Now I was riding this section in the same direction as he was today and tried to ride in this space to let cars and a bus past. I was riding with the lights so would have been easily able to slot into the lane. I had to at the beginning and for a length at the end where this strip was blocked. So this guy had to actually ride against the traffic in the lane at some point.

Question to you, is this sensible? If not what is the thinking behind doing it? You can't save much real time because it is perhaps 3-400m length and the lights change after about the time it takes for a slow cyclist to ride it (say at 8mph). Or am I the only one who believes that roadwork lights apply to cyclists too?

I know this might be off topic and a day late in posting but it has been niggling at the back of my mind since spotting it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 12 May, 2016, 12:08:24 am
Second commute on the Disco for me and, again, through Didsbury and Cheadle. Still loads more fun than the Rohloff on Styal Road.
For the LOLs, I reset the Garmin before coming home so that I had data for both directions.

There:- 14.3km, 40 min elapsed time (37min moving), 23.2 km/h average speed, 242 calories
And back again:- 14.1km, 34min (32min), 26.2 km/h, 221 calories respectively.

I didn't notice a tail-wind on the way there (do you ever ? ;)) but there was definitely a head-wind on the way back

From memory, the difference between riding times on the Styal Road route on the Rohloff bike was around 15 minutes.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ruthie on 12 May, 2016, 07:45:36 am
Quote from: TPMB12 on 11 May, 2016, 11:11:28 pm
Not today but yesterday a cyclist was riding through the filter lane of roadworks (one lane was roadworks the other was a filter lane with traffic control lights at each end). The rider was riding against the flow of traffic and the lights but between the cones and the roadworks security fences. You know the kind of fences held up by large concrete blocks sticking out into the space behind the cones. There is only enough space for a bus width so nowhere for the cyclist to go if there had been an obstruction in this narrow coned off strip. Now I was riding this section in the same direction as he was today and tried to ride in this space to let cars and a bus past. I was riding with the lights so would have been easily able to slot into the lane. I had to at the beginning and for a length at the end where this strip was blocked. So this guy had to actually ride against the traffic in the lane at some point.

Question to you, is this sensible? If not what is the thinking behind doing it? You can't save much real time because it is perhaps 3-400m length and the lights change after about the time it takes for a slow cyclist to ride it (say at 8mph). Or am I the only one who believes that roadwork lights apply to cyclists too?

I know this might be off topic and a day late in posting but it has been niggling at the back of my mind since spotting it.

I sometimes do this.  It means you don't feel like an inconvenience, holding up the motorised vehicles when they've already been waiting at the lights.  It may be the other cyclists waited for the gap caused by the lights changing to get into the traffic lane.  That's what I would do.   Especially when you're riding slowly uphill, why not go behind and allow others to pass?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 12 May, 2016, 07:57:42 am
I think the question was about the cyclist who was salmon cycling, so riding towards oncoming traffic rather than with the flow, having presumably jumped the rid to do so. 

Of course it is entirely possible that the reason they were salmoning their way through is that the cycle of lights didn't allow sufficient time for them to get through the one way closure and the lights changed when they were part way along, but the oncoming traffic set off even though there was an oncoming cyclist - I've seen that happen before on (different) traffic lit one way bits!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 12 May, 2016, 08:12:55 am
Very tough headwind this morning
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 12 May, 2016, 09:27:12 am
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 12 May, 2016, 07:57:42 am
I think the question was about the cyclist who was salmon cycling, so riding towards oncoming traffic rather than with the flow, having presumably jumped the rid to do so. 

Of course it is entirely possible that the reason they were salmoning their way through is that the cycle of lights didn't allow sufficient time for them to get through the one way closure and the lights changed when they were part way along, but the oncoming traffic set off even though there was an oncoming cyclist - I've seen that happen before on (different) traffic lit one way bits!

This is quite common. Temporary (and some fixed) traffic lights are often too short for a cyclist to get through on the time allowed. I was annoyed by one on a road (which is part of NCN7) just south of Gretna recently where I was first off at the lights as they went green, sprinted* the road works and still didn't make the other side before the light went green. I'm sure the drivers waiting there will have thought I jumped the lights.

*well pushed hard anyway
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 12 May, 2016, 09:28:06 am
Sun was out, wind was from behind. My singlespeed felt very under-geared :D 8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 12 May, 2016, 09:33:02 am
Quote from: mcshroom on 12 May, 2016, 09:28:06 am
Sun was out, wind was from behind. My singlespeed felt very under-geared :D 8)
just wait for the ride home  :demon: where as on my commute... I now have a flat spot on my rear tyre  >:(

Down hill passed a junction, from the other direction it is a fork right with a filter lane. The first oncoming vehicle to turn across me was fine, the second OK as I could moderate my speed to make room for them. When the third vehicle turned his steering wheel all anchors (front, rear and legs on fixie) and vocal alarm were deployed. Fortunately the driver thought better of his manoeuvre and stopped as I went passed his drivers door with the rear locked solid. Had he continued the middle of his bonnet would have picked up my front wheel.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 12 May, 2016, 09:41:03 am
Glad to hear you managed to avoid that Matters. I too have a an annoying flat spot on the rear tyre on my road bike after a terrific cold-sweat-on-the-forehead skidderoo. Yet to change it. Haven't yet, and on the last two rides it's noticeable the faint thud-thud-thud. It's tiny … but it's there!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris N on 12 May, 2016, 09:47:20 am
Whizzed down the old railway line, like riding in a bright green tunnel. :)
Tailwind along the busiest road (just a B-road, but 5 cars passed me :P ).
Off into the lanes - a lovely sunny morning tractor spotting (2 Case, 2 Fendt and a JCB :thumbsup: )
Found a screwdriver by the side of the road. :thumbsup: (felt a bit like bardsandwarriors with it sticking out of my pocket :-X )
Got to work early for once. 8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 12 May, 2016, 10:19:00 am
Quote from: Riggers on 12 May, 2016, 09:41:03 am
Glad to hear you managed to avoid that Matters. I too have a an annoying flat spot on the rear tyre on my road bike after a terrific cold-sweat-on-the-forehead skidderoo. Yet to change it. Haven't yet, and on the last two rides it's noticeable the faint thud-thud-thud. It's tiny … but it's there!

I didn't avoid it as I had nowhere I could go and couldn't stop in time.  :facepalm: Fortunately the driver thought better of it and stopped.

I have to pick my road position there carefully to be visible to the drivers coming out of the side turn and visible to those turning across me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 12 May, 2016, 10:23:57 am
(http://thumbsnap.com/s/fNE3cIxo.jpg?0512) (http://thumbsnap.com/fNE3cIxo)

Why did I dab the brakes? That was fun!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 12 May, 2016, 12:58:31 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 12 May, 2016, 09:27:12 am
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 12 May, 2016, 07:57:42 am
I think the question was about the cyclist who was salmon cycling, so riding towards oncoming traffic rather than with the flow, having presumably jumped the rid to do so. 

Of course it is entirely possible that the reason they were salmoning their way through is that the cycle of lights didn't allow sufficient time for them to get through the one way closure and the lights changed when they were part way along, but the oncoming traffic set off even though there was an oncoming cyclist - I've seen that happen before on (different) traffic lit one way bits!

This is quite common. Temporary (and some fixed) traffic lights are often too short for a cyclist to get through on the time allowed. I was annoyed by one on a road (which is part of NCN7) just south of Gretna recently where I was first off at the lights as they went green, sprinted* the road works and still didn't make the other side before the light went green. I'm sure the drivers waiting there will have thought I jumped the lights.

*well pushed hard anyway

This sort of situation is where, in the absence of an impressively loaded bike, it can be useful to spin a low gear at insanely high cadence.  It gives the "look, I'm really trying" message.  Though I have had the awesomely helpful advice to "pedal harder!" shouted at me by a following driver in similar circumstances.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tom_e on 12 May, 2016, 01:38:49 pm
Quote from: TPMB12 on 11 May, 2016, 11:11:28 pm
Not today but yesterday a cyclist was riding through the filter lane of roadworks (one lane was roadworks the other was a filter lane with traffic control lights at each end). The rider was riding against the flow of traffic and the lights but between the cones and the roadworks security fences. You know the kind of fences held up by large concrete blocks sticking out into the space behind the cones. There is only enough space for a bus width so nowhere for the cyclist to go if there had been an obstruction in this narrow coned off strip. Now I was riding this section in the same direction as he was today and tried to ride in this space to let cars and a bus past. I was riding with the lights so would have been easily able to slot into the lane. I had to at the beginning and for a length at the end where this strip was blocked. So this guy had to actually ride against the traffic in the lane at some point.

Question to you, is this sensible? If not what is the thinking behind doing it? You can't save much real time because it is perhaps 3-400m length and the lights change after about the time it takes for a slow cyclist to ride it (say at 8mph). Or am I the only one who believes that roadwork lights apply to cyclists too?

I know this might be off topic and a day late in posting but it has been niggling at the back of my mind since spotting it.

I've done similar a few times, riding in the closed off area rather than the single-width light controlled area.  I am hesitant about it, but I actually think most motorists prefer you doing so because that way there isn't conflict.  As a result I wouldn't compare it to a normal red light running - you're taking a different route from them.  It does feel wrong though - on a short section I will go with the lights normally and sprint.  But on a longer section that has a couple of obvious problems.

Once you're riding outside of the road section it doesn't make any sense to stick with the lights because you don't want to have to sprint through this area to stay in sync before oncoming traffic gets to you.  Better to take your time inside the road works area and wait for a gap to cross over if necessary at the end.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 12 May, 2016, 02:08:31 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 12 May, 2016, 09:27:12 am
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 12 May, 2016, 07:57:42 am
I think the question was about the cyclist who was salmon cycling, so riding towards oncoming traffic rather than with the flow, having presumably jumped the rid to do so. 

Of course it is entirely possible that the reason they were salmoning their way through is that the cycle of lights didn't allow sufficient time for them to get through the one way closure and the lights changed when they were part way along, but the oncoming traffic set off even though there was an oncoming cyclist - I've seen that happen before on (different) traffic lit one way bits!

This is quite common. Temporary (and some fixed) traffic lights are often too short for a cyclist to get through on the time allowed. I was annoyed by one on a road (which is part of NCN7) just south of Gretna recently where I was first off at the lights as they went green, sprinted* the road works and still didn't make the other side before the light went green. I'm sure the drivers waiting there will have thought I jumped the lights.

*well pushed hard anyway

The time limits are given in "The Pink Book" - https://www.gov.uk/government/.../introduction-use-portable-vehicular-signals.pdf

Hurrummph - so for a (purported) maximum 300m in 50s run you need to be shifting at 6 metres/sec,  (or 21.6Km/h) the moment it goes green...give it some welly ;)

Edit: If you want pictures, http://www.analyticcycling.com/DiffEqMotionFunctions_Page.html
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 12 May, 2016, 04:14:42 pm
Quote from: iddu on 12 May, 2016, 02:08:31 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 12 May, 2016, 09:27:12 am
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 12 May, 2016, 07:57:42 am
I think the question was about the cyclist who was salmon cycling, so riding towards oncoming traffic rather than with the flow, having presumably jumped the rid to do so. 

Of course it is entirely possible that the reason they were salmoning their way through is that the cycle of lights didn't allow sufficient time for them to get through the one way closure and the lights changed when they were part way along, but the oncoming traffic set off even though there was an oncoming cyclist - I've seen that happen before on (different) traffic lit one way bits!

This is quite common. Temporary (and some fixed) traffic lights are often too short for a cyclist to get through on the time allowed. I was annoyed by one on a road (which is part of NCN7) just south of Gretna recently where I was first off at the lights as they went green, sprinted* the road works and still didn't make the other side before the light went green. I'm sure the drivers waiting there will have thought I jumped the lights.

*well pushed hard anyway

The time limits are given in "The Pink Book" - https://www.gov.uk/government/.../introduction-use-portable-vehicular-signals.pdf

Hurrummph - so for a (purported) maximum 300m in 50s run you need to be shifting at 6 metres/sec,  (or 21.6Km/h) the moment it goes green...give it some welly ;)

Edit: If you want pictures, http://www.analyticcycling.com/DiffEqMotionFunctions_Page.html

200km into a 300 there was only so much welly I had to give ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 12 May, 2016, 09:42:45 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 12 May, 2016, 09:27:12 am
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 12 May, 2016, 07:57:42 am
I think the question was about the cyclist who was salmon cycling, so riding towards oncoming traffic rather than with the flow, having presumably jumped the rid to do so. 

Of course it is entirely possible that the reason they were salmoning their way through is that the cycle of lights didn't allow sufficient time for them to get through the one way closure and the lights changed when they were part way along, but the oncoming traffic set off even though there was an oncoming cyclist - I've seen that happen before on (different) traffic lit one way bits!

This is quite common. Temporary (and some fixed) traffic lights are often too short for a cyclist to get through on the time allowed. I was annoyed by one on a road (which is part of NCN7) just south of Gretna recently where I was first off at the lights as they went green, sprinted* the road works and still didn't make the other side before the light went green. I'm sure the drivers waiting there will have thought I jumped the lights.

*well pushed hard anyway

I came across this situation on an Audax last year.

At a big set of roadworks, myself and another audaxer set off when the lights went green.
As we were approaching the end of the contraflow ( within 10m ), the lights had gone green for the other way.
Any sane person would just have let the oncoming traffic ( us ) finish before proceeding.
But no.
Much revving off the line and accelerating towards us and screaming and shouting.
We held our ground.

It was pointed out to him that a green light does not mean go.
It means go if the way is clear, which it was not.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 12 May, 2016, 10:38:46 pm
Quote from: Feanor on 12 May, 2016, 09:42:45 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 12 May, 2016, 09:27:12 am
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 12 May, 2016, 07:57:42 am
I think the question was about the cyclist who was salmon cycling, so riding towards oncoming traffic rather than with the flow, having presumably jumped the rid to do so. 

Of course it is entirely possible that the reason they were salmoning their way through is that the cycle of lights didn't allow sufficient time for them to get through the one way closure and the lights changed when they were part way along, but the oncoming traffic set off even though there was an oncoming cyclist - I've seen that happen before on (different) traffic lit one way bits!


This is quite common. Temporary (and some fixed) traffic lights are often too short for a cyclist to get through on the time allowed. I was annoyed by one on a road (which is part of NCN7) just south of Gretna recently where I was first off at the lights as they went green, sprinted* the road works and still didn't make the other side before the light went green. I'm sure the drivers waiting there will have thought I jumped the lights.

*well pushed hard anyway

I came across this situation on an Audax last year.

At a big set of roadworks, myself and another audaxer set off when the lights went green.
As we were approaching the end of the contraflow ( within 10m ), the lights had gone green for the other way.
Any sane person would just have let the oncoming traffic ( us ) finish before proceeding.
But no.
Much revving off the line and accelerating towards us and screaming and shouting.
We held our ground.

It was pointed out to him that a green light does not mean go.
It means go if the way is clear, which it was not.

Painswick, every sodding day!

There is a restriction because in 1800 and something when they built the village they only needed to get some donkeys between the houses and alas the restriction has a bend in it so the cars at the other end can't see you coming. It has sensor things that count cars but they don't work for bikes.

And it's up hill, just after a bastard up hill bit.

One day I am going to calmly dismount and beat the beeping motorist to death with his horn to make a point to all the others.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TPMB12 on 12 May, 2016, 11:21:41 pm
These lights have plenty of time to pedal through before the lights change. If I set off as soon as the lights turn green I have enough time to cycle about twice the length of the roadworks before the cars start to move in the other direction. Seriously unless you set off into the roadworks area after the lights have been on green for a long time you will have plenty of time to get through. BTW I have been absolutely dead on the bike before now doing less than 8mph and truly struggling. I got through easily before the lights changed so time is never a reason for salmon riding those roadworks.

It is on one of the LeJog routes and gets a lot of tourers plus it is on a popular commuter route so motorists are almost all cycle friendly on that route. I have gone through there after the lights were on green for some time and the cars patiently waited for me despite the light must have gone green their side. Plus it is only about 400m at most so not long roadworks.

The space is narrow if you factor in those solid concrete supports for the fence into account. You have little space to ride in and I felt contrained and not too safe doing it. In fact I did not get the feeling it was a safe area even if you were cycling with the traffic flow but he was against the traffic flow.

At each end of the run he would have had to ride for about 3 - 5 metres in the main lane due to comlete obstructions in this space. He did that by dipping in a gap between cars.

I would love to know his justification for riding like the way he did through those roadworks. BTW the cars that waited at the lights actually cauht him just as he dipped back into the lane again. He would have held them up if he had waited by about 20s I reckon. Cars can actually pass you when you are riding safely in the lane. They pass me and I did not feel it was too close doing so. BTW whenever I have ridden those roadworks I have found there is even plenty of time to let all the cars through before you started and you would still get through well before the lights change. This is what I do in busy times.

IMHO this guy was riding dangerously for his own safety. There is no reason to do it. The space he was in was not safe for a few reasons. Lastly he wound me up doing it. I can only see one benefit in that it meant he was not waiting for those extra 30s it probably took for the lights to change. Is that worth it?

I know I am a real stickler about som things such as riding on the pavement/footway at the side of the road. I do it only when it is a safety issue for me to be on the road (constriction in rush hour traffic for example forces me onto the footway but I ride at a little over walking pace (4-6mph tops) then return to the road as soon as possible. I do not believe there is any justification to run a red light. I believe it is a given that you do not ride the wrong way on a road (seriously I have seen it a few times before now). This rider fits into this cycling ethics of mine, his actions are not what I would do hence my wish to understand justifications for what I can only see as not right cycling behaviour.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TPMB12 on 12 May, 2016, 11:25:52 pm
PS I am sorry if I am coming across as kind of anti-cycling bringing this up. I do not mean to come across like those motorists posting a a newspaper comments section after an article on cycling. Those who rant about cyclists with comments about not having licences, number plates, insurance and pay road tax. I do not mean to come across as trolling against cyclists. Not least because I have enjoyed riding various bikes all my life in groups and on my own. I believe cycling to be only positive, but I do believe in confronting poor behaviour though perhaps I have no right to (who does have that right?).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 13 May, 2016, 12:55:14 am
Lots of red lights for me on the way in this pm. I think I only had one green.
There was also a headwind.
One the return, I got luckier with the lights but there was still a headwind.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TPMB12 on 13 May, 2016, 08:49:21 am
Car for me today...I miss my bike! Have to use the car for family duty reasons but I'd rather be on the bike. Anyone else miss the bike when commuting by other means? It's not good seeing others on their bikes enjoying themselves when you want to be out there too.

Still annoyed with the 555 bus coming the opposite way and overtaking a cyclist without the space to safely do it. Never mind a metre and a half it wasn't even half a metre and the driver cut the cyclist up too. I'm annoyed because I've defended the 555 bus drivers before.  They've always been very good drivers around cyclists in the past. I often wonder how many cyclists sat in cars witness these close passes. If there was some way of finding out if the cyclist reported it so you could report it too as a witness. Not sharing information but remaining independent if you follow my thinking. I see many cases of dangerous driving around cyclists, more than when I'm actually on my bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 13 May, 2016, 08:59:38 am
Yep, my commute today started with a train last night followed by hotel and then bus to the office. I am looking forward to the train back tonight (not) but then collecting my bike from the office and riding home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 13 May, 2016, 09:52:15 am
Heading north over London Bridge. Me in middle lane for Bishopsgate, very close to lights when green changes to amber.  Nothing in front of me at junction so I accelerate a bit and head across. Guy riding in left lane heading up King William St attempts to do similar. Only problem is, he's a few feet further away from lights and has a rather large motorbike in front, whose rider brakes and stops. Oops! bicycle rider yells. But cannot prevent inevitable. I couldn't stop, but, glancing behind he seemed Ok and people going to help. If he's here, hope you and bike Ok.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wascally Weasel on 13 May, 2016, 09:55:39 am
I’m heading east on Grosvenor Road, approaching the junction with Lupus Street.  I’m planning on turning left and am therefore in the left turning lane, clearly marked with a big friendly left turn arrow.

There are three cars ahead of me, all indicating left so I sit in primary behind them as there’s no point in overtaking to be overtaken again (and the side road is moderately narrow with lots of parked vehicles so it’s not ideal to get overtaken there).

I indicate left after I stop, waiting for the lights – as they change I indicate again for clarity.

This sadly does not prevent Mamilus Fuckwitus coming through on my inside.  Fortunately I assume that he is a fucking idiot and so it proves; at the junction, he carries straight on, despite being on the inside of a left turning lane and seems surprised and aggrieved when I call him a fucking idiot (which he is).

The sooner he ends up dead under the lorry that ‘inexplicably’ turns left across him in a left turning lane the better.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 13 May, 2016, 11:35:27 am
I'm glad I wore a fleece this morning. It's turned cold. The wind was chilly at 0700, it's chilly now, and it looks like it'll still be chilly for the ride home. A weekend must be somewhere near.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 13 May, 2016, 07:03:56 pm
First commute in like forever. I expected to be knackered after forty-odd miles but strangely not. Evidently all those dull hours in hotel gyms were not entirely lost hours. The usual pointlessly dumb aggressive driving that always takes a bit of getting used to before the London cyclist's death-defying nonchalance kicks in. Otherwise, quite pleasant. First cycle on the superhighway thing across Blackfriars Bridge. How splendid! If only my entire route was that nice. Did hitch a lift in the wake of a sirening police van through St Reatham on the way home, which made the usual rush hour snarl of Streatham High Street quite quick and painless.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 15 May, 2016, 12:20:26 am
It was a bit chilly going in this afternoon and actually quite cold coming home tonight.
Highlight of the trip was seeing someone doing a perfect track stand at the lights outside the Cheese Hamlet in Didsbury; there was no movement at all.
Back on early shifts next week so I'm most likely to enjoy the extra time in bed and use the car. We'll see.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 15 May, 2016, 03:40:44 am
Quote from: ian on 13 May, 2016, 07:03:56 pm
First commute in like forever. I expected to be knackered after forty-odd miles but strangely not.

That's a long commute
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 15 May, 2016, 10:19:41 am
I found a new way home on Friday. It's a bit longer (but then my current route is way too short), and much nicer, being almost completely off-road in a good way (beautiful forested tracks, not glass-strewn dog-fouled shared-use after-thought compromise). I have learned that it is called route 672 aka the Great Northern Greenway "...and will connect Derby City with Ilkeston when complete."

If they do complete it, it will be brilliant. In the meantime, I'm dusting off the mtb* for more commuting fun.

 :thumbsup: ;D

(*627 is fine on 700c, but to get home from it I have either to drop back onto a horrible road, or I can use a bridle path which is a little rough for my road tyres, but huge fun on the mtb)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 15 May, 2016, 06:40:34 pm
Not to work but over to Leonard Stanley to meet the DC and district chairperson.

It appears I'm now in charge of a whole scout group (or will be after the AGM). Having been in charge of a whole county previously it seems a remarkably fun thing to be doing. Just need to get a new uniform shirt and remember that I can't sack everyone anymore.

Also there is a hill that makes my journey to work look flat, yay for hill training on the way to meetings.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 16 May, 2016, 02:44:12 am
Quote from: sg37409 on 15 May, 2016, 03:40:44 am
Quote from: ian on 13 May, 2016, 07:03:56 pm
First commute in like forever. I expected to be knackered after forty-odd miles but strangely not.

That's a long commute

It is but I only go to the mothership every now and then. Tidy haired thought leadership is mostly in the build-up and mental conditioning, a zen-like state best cultivated by staying home and sleeping late. Go to office every day? The horror, the horror.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 16 May, 2016, 09:29:27 am
Bit chilly still but it was gloriously sunny this morning. Lots of birds flying along in front of me in and out of the hedges looking to be having lots of fun :D

Now off to find some works basics* as I've discovered no I hadn't left any trousers in the office over the weekend :facepalm:


*Sort of like hospital scrubs
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 16 May, 2016, 09:37:33 am
Someone's turned the clock back a couple of weeks. The sun was warm on my knees but the air was bitingly cold.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 16 May, 2016, 09:47:40 am
Slept through the alarm, so running late with sore legs was an interesting experience.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 16 May, 2016, 10:15:55 am
Sunny on the tops but cold as I descended into Cheltenham.

A lot of numpties out today though, one a bunch of team kitted roadies all over the place (wrong side of the road, etc) cue much beeping of horns and me getting pissed off as they steamed through a junction almost through me.

A bearded pilliock who tried to race me and twatted a van trying to squeeze down a gap and then ran a red on a pedestrian crossing only for me to catch up 20 yards later.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 16 May, 2016, 10:24:07 am
Last set of commutes for a while (or even ever!) today. Nice weather and I enjoyed stretching the legs two days in a row.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: menthel on 16 May, 2016, 06:53:25 pm
And done. A bit sad really but at least the weather was nice and the traffic benign! Now to work out if I can bike commute from Raynes Park to Maidenhead at all...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 16 May, 2016, 07:48:08 pm
Glorious weather for the ride both ways.

Did my good deed for the day when I got to the level crossing at Waterloo road and used the phone to remind the signaller that he had forgotten to raise the barriers on Easthampstead road  :o

The queue of traffic was getting impressive and impatient when I filtered past and turned left so what it was like after another couple of minutes when I called it in... apparently he had been distracted by an incident else where.  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 17 May, 2016, 08:36:24 am
Nice bit of sun even if my burnt forehead doesn't agree, still can't get the right cleat perfect on my summer shoes.  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 17 May, 2016, 08:49:38 am
Yesterday evening on the CS north end of Blackfriars Bridge northbound saw a 20-ish female being stretchered off in an ambivalance with a cycle-geared-up-bloke being attended sitting on the kerb. No motorised vehicles apparently involved (there is no left turn there now). No idea what happened, whether she was cyclist or ped, but quel suprise. Hope she wasn't badly hurt.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 17 May, 2016, 12:15:14 pm
Quote from: Paul on 15 May, 2016, 10:19:41 am
I found a new way home on Friday.

I am a happy man. My new route is so lovely that I can't wait to leave the house in the morning. The downside is that I do have to wait before I can leave the office in the afternoon, but that just makes the ride all the better when I do.

My colleagues can't understand how a bike ride can make me so chipper.

Their loss.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 18 May, 2016, 08:28:17 am
I got visited by the fairies last night. The last mile-anna-bit was completed on foot.

Ho hum.

I'm glad the forecasters got it half wrong this morning. Mild - check. Wet -..... Er , Wet...? Orright. Who's nicked the soddin' wet?

T-shirt instead of T-shirt and jacket. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 18 May, 2016, 09:18:33 am
The wet was in my area  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 18 May, 2016, 09:26:30 am
Cracking ride home yesterday. Just really pleasant and nice.

Having a bit of a tailwind helped :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 18 May, 2016, 12:44:19 pm
Post - BCM hero legs.

(tailwind :facepalm:)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 19 May, 2016, 08:13:38 am
Bit concerned over light levels and the weather forecast so not wanting to take any juice out of the only batteries I've got charged I used Ozzy, $DEITY I love that bike, it just makes me  ;D every time I ride it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 19 May, 2016, 08:16:04 am
Quote from: matthew on 18 May, 2016, 09:18:33 am
The wet was in my area  >:(
It may cheer you up to hear the wet caught up with me on the way home yesterday.

I wish May would make its mind up, I needed the fleece again this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 19 May, 2016, 08:17:43 am
No compensation, I got drenched going home last night. Full wet gear of Cape gaiters and overshoes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 19 May, 2016, 01:50:41 pm
My commute this morning took a decided turn for the better

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/UcvPNtlE1uvfgeaxY33WASpPprc3TU8-nKkgPvuD0wq6w40oGdGSUmdTfGfUhijhSLUUF-uM0L75aqvDN6srp2eQBVBVBNO249d4mN5AqOL2jC9_V07vdf7dfD6k8dxfAla8Vj7i0TsGE-ZDavFXSx_PNwtSomMGwo6sct_vL0u8tK0AtvqZM-dJwHjzeuhJOOZFCzCVL_7fOSw_uPnVEE7TGo_JFPws2wKvk_WDwJqyt11UUkrDxUeS7e_nwSpo-ciyD0PgA8Em5ykNH_kUFyQnzI65ofNwRtwL4kuNFjvw2_zAVhC6Tg_KiHPDQ38OydVTvr4amXF7pFvyW6cGk-ddxdR7-JEJgGm6VqJrU2scJ8tJ8lWxBIuY2FQSZ9pS2SwQRSJv6tTQu1ISnnMN4D4uQ2k9bHq2Bkg-uuzYtycgUJBMuPRxlo3S09GYhh9gqYjCOISKGGJzuuGbCZt1W5LGDaELko5qOqodT5WyUdM4sIsWGALfzD3rpn_7OfAUsX2Wt_kaLaTRt9pWwbAAlFtF-NEPAh1kjbVQPjrHwfxv8U1b3WzYxDXcMbuIe1P_FZwLNYzFqshBj6akhRkd35RZDF35e94m=w549-h733-no)

Allowing me to overlook the slight error made in the selection of a single speed folder with a coaster brake to tackle the terrain around Winchester.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 20 May, 2016, 09:24:26 am
Not sure where to put it exactly so here it goes as it relates to commuting.

http://www.standard.co.uk/news/transport/fears-over-delays-for-shoppers-in-cars-puts-westway-cycle-superhighway-plan-in-jeopardy-a3252741.html - boo fucking hoo! so shoppers may take an extra minute or so to get to their preciously over priced shop for their latte fix!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 20 May, 2016, 10:03:43 am
Lovely ride home yesterday except for the combination of leaving work early and a decent tailwind meant I got to my customary pub stop and they weren't open yet.

If I'd only been ten minute early I'd have waited but half an hour was a bit too long to hang about.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 20 May, 2016, 10:16:33 am
Quote from: Ashaman42 on 20 May, 2016, 10:03:43 am
Lovely ride home yesterday except for the combination of leaving work early and a decent tailwind meant I got to my customary pub stop and they weren't open yet.

If I'd only been ten minute early I'd have waited but half an hour was a bit too long to hang about.

Such lack of dedication does you no credit at all

 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 20 May, 2016, 10:43:43 am
Will I did have slow cooker chilli tempting me homeward.

If it was a tad warmer I may have hung about mind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jakob W on 20 May, 2016, 07:38:08 pm
Not really my commute, but I was in the Smoke today, and watching the hordes of cyclists on CS2 brought joy to my heart. Not having lived in London for half a decade I'd taken reports of the cycling boom with a cynical pinch of salt - the modal share was still a couple of per cent - but this is genuinely high-class infrastructure. Now if only we could import this elsewhere...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 23 May, 2016, 08:11:41 am
Nice morning, just cruising along then saw the lights change at Urmston so went for a sprint, obviously not warmed up enough since I've managed to wrench something in my hip, eased a bit by the time I got in but am going to have to take it easy tonight.   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 23 May, 2016, 09:24:03 am
Nice ride in, failure of the level crossing just off my route resulted in lots of queueing traffic in the other direction and no opportunity for the traffic behind me to pass.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris N on 23 May, 2016, 09:25:55 am
Tailwind. 8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 23 May, 2016, 08:27:54 pm
1 hour and 2 minutes.

That's my fastest ever time home, when I started this job in november it was taking me somewhere between 1 hour 30 minutes and 1 hour 45 minutes. my average time these days is down to about 1 hour 15 minutes.

I've got a pretty steep climb smack bang in the middle of the 24km, and I'm overweight, and riding a heavy thorn raven tour.

Might go and look at carbon bikes tomorrow so see if I can get it home under the hour.

D.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 23 May, 2016, 09:49:28 pm
Unadvertised rain + lack of waterproof = soggy Tim
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 23 May, 2016, 10:04:36 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 23 May, 2016, 09:49:28 pm
Unadvertised rain + lack of waterproof = soggy Tim
Always take your waterproofs.
This is the UK.
(Least it wasn't cold)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 23 May, 2016, 10:05:25 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 23 May, 2016, 10:04:36 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 23 May, 2016, 09:49:28 pm
Unadvertised rain + lack of waterproof = soggy Tim
Always take your waterproofs.
This is the UK.

Furthermore, forgetting your sunblock can often be fruitful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 23 May, 2016, 11:09:47 pm
Ride in: sunshine, tailwind, birds, rabbits, butterflies. Glorious

Ride home: rain, rocks, muddy singletrack. Also glorious.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 24 May, 2016, 12:06:41 am
Late shifts again so I'm riding in.
I managed to avoid any rain on the way there but I'd missed that it was "Drive like a muppet" day. It did seem particularly well observed in Cheadle but a few of Kermit's friends had also made it to Didsbury.
Coming home, I decided to try the A34 as a shortcut. I shan't do it again. It only saves 1/2 mile and it's not pleasant to ride along, even at 23.00.
I'm still using the Disco. It's so much better to ride.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 24 May, 2016, 08:39:14 am
Stupid overtake and a bit of shouty-moron on the Greenway yesterday. Didn't spoil a nice ride home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: trekker12 on 24 May, 2016, 09:13:12 am
Lunch is being provided by work (in order to tempt us to attend the sales meeting) and I had brought clean clothes and towel in the car yesterday so was unencumbered without saddle bag or any other paraphernalia.

Sun was shining (lovely), headwind (ugh) but all in resulted in a very pleasant ride and my fastest of the year (not that I time myself because that's dangerous).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 24 May, 2016, 09:31:55 am
Short sleeves this morning wearing my forum top, got caught by a fellow commuter I see occasionally.

FC: "You're just pootling today, very strange to be gaining on you"
Me: "Yeah, enjoying the sun, a bit tired really"
FC: "Ah, yACF, don't tell me, you've been off riding some silly 50,000 mile audax at the weekend"

This place has a reputation. 

 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 24 May, 2016, 09:44:07 am
Wonderful ride in this morning, sadly over dressed for the warmth and carrying a rucksack on my back because I've got to get a train to Warrington this evening for meetings tomorrow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 24 May, 2016, 09:49:14 am
Quote from: Kim on 23 May, 2016, 10:05:25 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 23 May, 2016, 10:04:36 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 23 May, 2016, 09:49:28 pm
Unadvertised rain + lack of waterproof = soggy Tim
Always take your waterproofs.
This is the UK.

Furthermore, forgetting your sunblock can often be fruitful.

The intensity of the rain last night indicated that Gopher Wood might have been a useful thing to carry.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 24 May, 2016, 01:54:52 pm
This week, I realised that I need to drag my arse out of bed on time, and get into work early, so that I miss the Chelsea Flower Show crowds.  I wasn't quite efficient and motivated enough this morning, so was about an hour later than ideal, and hit Queenstown Road and Chelsea Bridge Road at around 8am.

There was quite a lot of traffic along Queenstown Road, and even more at the junction with Embankment.  Tomorrow I really need to jump out of bed that little bit earlier.  I didn't realise that the show opens at 8am, I assumed it would be 9am or even 10am.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 24 May, 2016, 06:42:26 pm
Oh! I haven't been on here for a while but I spotted someone in a KOTM yacf shirt this morning heading west along Turks row around 8.20. Was it you, TimO?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 24 May, 2016, 06:44:56 pm
I thought maybe you'd wandered off into the long grass.

Is your lad up for a midnight run from HPC to home one Friday evening on a trailer-bike yet ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: little miss mac on 24 May, 2016, 06:54:37 pm
Maybe the long grass of the mind  :)
Minimac is 8! He's getting to grips with his latest  islabike - think he's a bit big for the tagalong now!
It's taken a while for him to get used to cycling but we managed a trip up the A3 path and around Wimbledon common the other weekend without any grazed limbs (but WITH ice cream of course) so maybe HPC one Friday night to wave off the FNRTTCers might be in order, if that's what you mean...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 24 May, 2016, 10:24:47 pm
Hello Alex,
Lovely to see you back on here.
I punctured this evening.
Annoying, as I'd managed to leave work 'early'  - which meant any such advantage went straight out of the window....
Had one passing cyclist (of many) ask 'Got everything you need?'  :thumbsup:
I had. :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 24 May, 2016, 11:14:11 pm
Quote from: little miss mac on 24 May, 2016, 06:54:37 pm
Maybe the long grass of the mind  :)
Minimac is 8! He's getting to grips with his latest  islabike - think he's a bit big for the tagalong now!
It's taken a while for him to get used to cycling but we managed a trip up the A3 path and around Wimbledon common the other weekend without any grazed limbs (but WITH ice cream of course) so maybe HPC one Friday night to wave off the FNRTTCers might be in order, if that's what you mean...
8 !!  OMG.  Time flies as you get older.  Yes, a tagalong is no longer the thing. And yes, I did mean popping up to join the FNRttC for the first few miles of the ride. I think we did it with Joe from HPC when he was about 10 and we peeled off at home (Simon kindly took the ride right past our front door). So perhaps in a couple of years time ??  Great news on getting him out on the bike around the Common though. That's a great run out for an 8yo. If we were ever to meet up, I owe him a jelly baby or two.

And don't you wish Islabikes were a thing when you were a kid ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jon on 24 May, 2016, 11:35:02 pm
I 'enjoyed' at least 2 people overtaking a few yards from a roundabout or junction then honking their brakes on in front of me. Great fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 24 May, 2016, 11:58:08 pm
I thought that I'd had a headwind in both directions today but, having looked on Strava, perhaps not since the journey times are very similar and it's uphill to get to work. I also set a few PRs on the way there although one of them was through wanting to get past a narrow section as quickly as possible.
It was chilly on the way home and I was glad that I'd remembered to put leg-warmers in my Carradice.
I might need to HTFU since tomorrow's forecast is Mancunian.

ETA: great to see you drop in LMM  :thumbsup:


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 25 May, 2016, 08:12:54 am
A nagging headwind made up for by friendly traffic lights, 11 miles into the centre of Manc and only one red  :thumbsup: Bad news was I've picked up another chemical burn on my leg I wish I knew where these are coming from.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 25 May, 2016, 11:59:58 pm
A small amount of HTFU needed because of the light rain this afternoon. I used a waterproof but probably could have done without it. I also chose to wear the winter boots to keep my feet dry.
Coming home, no HTFU was needed since I didn't have a choice. Full water proofs and a gentle cruise kept things nice and dry and the boots came into their own. I should have fitted the front mud-guard though.
Three days and three commutes. Wonder if I'll make it five out of five ?

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 26 May, 2016, 08:34:10 am
Since the-not-yet officially-Mrs S is playing long distance taxi I have a plan for a cheeky wizard on the way home tomorrow hence a double load this morning as I'd like to be luggage free so the gentle tailwind was gratefully received.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 26 May, 2016, 08:40:33 am
Yesterday afternoon three different motorised gentlefolk gave me priority when they "shouldn't"

 :thumbsup: to driver of blue 7.5 tonner who let me turn left onto "his" road and then followed me slowly round the blind-bend-with-twattishly-parked-cars, overtaking wide and slow once it was obviously clear to do so.

 :thumbsup: to driver of "Bedford Batteries" van who let me turn right onto "his" road instead of carrying on past the parked cars while he could, thus making himself wait for the next lot of oncoming traffic to pass.

 :thumbsup: to driver of white Transit who flashed me out onto his side of the road to pass a badly-parked wankpanzer.

Did they put something in the water yesterday?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 26 May, 2016, 10:35:05 am
Wow !  More like that please.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 26 May, 2016, 11:08:45 am
Quote from: davelodwig on 23 May, 2016, 08:27:54 pm
1 hour and 2 minutes.

That's my fastest ever time home, when I started this job in november it was taking me somewhere between 1 hour 30 minutes and 1 hour 45 minutes. my average time these days is down to about 1 hour 15 minutes.

I've got a pretty steep climb smack bang in the middle of the 24km, and I'm overweight, and riding a heavy thorn raven tour.

Might go and look at carbon bikes tomorrow so see if I can get it home under the hour.

D.
Good going, Dave! Get it under the hour and we'll bake a cake!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 26 May, 2016, 04:50:25 pm
Cycled up to King's Cross earlier. My god, it's the fortress of invulnerability when it comes to cyclists. It's moated by multi-laned traffic-snarled roads. Fortunately everything was at a halt. A splendid example of British cycling infrastructure, major train stations with no obvious means to cycle to or from them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 26 May, 2016, 05:17:23 pm
I'm sure I've been caught out a couple of times at King's X when there was no means of getting a train from there either.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 27 May, 2016, 12:15:57 am
No rain today and the wind was relatively benign.
I tried for a PR up one of the Strava segments so imagine my disappointment when I plugged the Garmin in and found that it was only my 3rd fastest time.
It makes the fact that I was scalped by an MTB rider as I grovelled along after my attempt even more humiliating.
I need to ride my bike harder more frequently I think.

Fourth consecutive commute.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 27 May, 2016, 06:28:34 am
Quote from: little miss mac on 24 May, 2016, 06:42:26 pm
Oh! I haven't been on here for a while but I spotted someone in a KOTM yacf shirt this morning heading west along Turks row around 8.20. Was it you, TimO?

Almost certainly me!  It's been a while since anyone has spotted me. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 27 May, 2016, 08:32:36 am
Last night down Kings Road staying out of the cycle lane in the door zone and dodging pot holes heard a screaming engine and then lots of beeping but still held my line, guy pulled alongside for a cycle lane rant and tried to force me into the parked cars, what followed was a bit of a game of cat and mouse as he tried to brake test me etc, then the plod came the opposite way and he sped off like his arse was on fire with plod in pursuit. I love riding around Moss Side  ::-)

Supposed to be taking it easy today but it's such a lovely morning and the brand new surface up Alexandra Road is so silky smooth couldn't resist opening the taps, massive fun.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 27 May, 2016, 09:12:39 am
To the guy that undertook a left turning vehicle on Tower Bridge Road on a Boris bike... you were unbelievably lucky not to be road kill and don't look back as if it was the van's fault. He had his indicators on for a long time at the lights you twat!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 27 May, 2016, 09:30:56 am
Quote from: ian on 26 May, 2016, 04:50:25 pm
Cycled up to King's Cross earlier. My god, it's the fortress of invulnerability when it comes to cyclists. It's moated by multi-laned traffic-snarled roads. Fortunately everything was at a halt. A splendid example of British cycling infrastructure, major train stations with no obvious means to cycle to or from them.
If you're coming up from Blackfriars direction there's a quiet route via Fleet Street, Fetter lane, Red Lion Street, Brunswick Sq and Argyle Street which brings you out opposite Pancras Road where you have your own dedicated cycle crossing to get you over 8 lanes of motionless traffic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 27 May, 2016, 10:01:19 am
I'm heading up into the West End (of Lundun) this morning. It'll be the first time* I've been up on a weekday since all the superhighways were opened. I'm not sure if I'm looking forward to it or not.

* I'm going up to retrieve  a D-lock from the bike rack behind the office I last worked in two and a half years ago.  I never went back to it after my accident and it was only the other day when I was walking past it that I remembered (i.e. noticed) where I had left the lock  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 27 May, 2016, 10:25:03 am
Quote from: Jurek on 27 May, 2016, 09:30:56 am
Quote from: ian on 26 May, 2016, 04:50:25 pm
Cycled up to King's Cross earlier. My god, it's the fortress of invulnerability when it comes to cyclists. It's moated by multi-laned traffic-snarled roads. Fortunately everything was at a halt. A splendid example of British cycling infrastructure, major train stations with no obvious means to cycle to or from them.
If you're coming up from Blackfriars direction there's a quiet route via Fleet Street, Fetter lane, Red Lion Street, Brunswick Sq and Argyle Street which brings you out opposite Pancras Road where you have your own dedicated cycle crossing to get you over 8 lanes of motionless traffic.

I sort of knew there were paths (having worked in the area since the Jurassic – though the mothership moves to the South Bank in 2017, an entire new planet), but I could find them and it wasn't so obviously signposted so I forged on over Blackfriars and up Farringdon Rd. It was doubly complicated as I had to get to Crinan St on the other side on KX. As it turned out, taking the Brommie rather than the Northern Line meant I was at my meeting half an hour early. It's amazing how quick you can get around London a bike. Fifteen minutes at amble pace from London Bridge to KX. That time in the morning it would have taken longer to get on a Northern Line train.

Got beeped by a white van on the way home. I was in the middle of the lane waiting at the lights (mostly can't be arsed pushing through, and in this case there was a bus being towed in front) at the south end of Figges Marsh in benighted Mitcham. You're in the way, the driver shouts. I give it a few seconds and say that indeed, yes, I am and leave it at that. I recommend this approach rather than getting shouty. Just say something that has no clear response. It's like sticking a broomstick through their metal spokes.

There does indeed seem to be a cycle path forming through Mitcham Common. I assume unfinished though there were no clear signs of activity, as there's no signage, white paint or easy means to leap onto it. Also, it manages not to connect with anything at every end, as a cyclist I presume you'd have to arise de novo from the common itself.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 27 May, 2016, 10:35:14 am
And in fine? I've found myself in danger of winking out of existence a couple of times in Mitcham. Though if I'd known what was waiting for me in Morden I might have welcomed it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: trekker12 on 27 May, 2016, 10:37:38 am
Overtaken by a gang of Dutch Harley Davidson* (and various imitations thereof) enthusiasts. One of whom rang a bicycle bell as he passed!

*The riders were Dutch, not the bikes
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 27 May, 2016, 10:39:24 am
Quote from: ian on 27 May, 2016, 10:25:03 am
... There does indeed seem to be a cycle path forming through Mitcham Common. I assume unfinished though there were no clear signs of activity, as there's no signage, white paint or easy means to leap onto it. Also, it manages not to connect with anything at every end, as a cyclist I presume you'd have to arise de novo from the common itself.

Whereabouts?

I do like Watneys Road (https://goo.gl/maps/S9vPf7jprDn), it always feels like I'm cycling through some post-apocalyptic landscape, where the countryside is slowly encroaching upon the road.  It's a shame it drops you onto the A236, with its somewhat insanely dangerous traffic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 27 May, 2016, 10:46:29 am
Along that very same A236, where Watneys Road emerges on the south side of the common (and yes, it's rather splendid little road for post-apocalyptic imaginings). They've narrowed the A236 (claimed the old painted on cycle lane) and added a wide tarmac path that looks like a cycle path. But it only runs from the Cedars Road roundabout to the Croydon end of the common where you are flung back out into the traffic again (and the prospect of the Lombard Circle of Death).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 27 May, 2016, 12:47:50 pm
A very roadie-looking cyclist sounded a bicycle horn as we crossed. Made me giggle all the way to work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 27 May, 2016, 04:21:51 pm
Reminds me, I was passed going through Tooting by a bloke on a bike. Ordinary bicycle with a little petrol engine strapped to it. Didn't look very legal.

Hmm, just noticed this year's first cycling death was on a bit of road I often use. Not surprised given the road in question.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 27 May, 2016, 08:11:51 pm
Yesterday work bound.  There's a bit of road that was repaired some 2 years ago after 10 (yes *ten*) years along which, prior to the rebuild, it was necessary to weave to avoid the elephant nests.  So *perhaps* I shouldn't be surprised that I automatically went into a weave pattern over a stretch that used to be particularly bad.  I only realised what I done a couple of dozen yards later.  Weird.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 28 May, 2016, 12:09:00 am
I made it 5 out of 5. I think I've only done that once before evah and that was to my worst job evah. It seemed to annoy my then boss that I'd rather cycle through central MCR than drive the heap of shit company car that they'd given me. That wasn't why I rode in; I did it for all the usual reasons, reasons he wouldn't have understood even if I'd tried to explain them

Highlight of today's commute was the behaviour of the driver of Stagecoach's X57. He passed me twice, the first time after waiting quite a while until it was safe and then giving me loads of room. The second time he again waited but I was able to get onto the pavement (it was clear, I could see a long way) so he could get past. We parted at some traffic lights with a wave. I've e-mailed Stagecoach.

I finished work quite early so I decided to stop on the way home to pick up some beer. I couldn't get four cans into my Carradice so three went in the bag and one in my bidon. It was nearly empty by the time I got home  ::-).
I've now got the weekend off (huzzah !) and more late shifts next week so I'm intending to continue using the bike rather than the car.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 28 May, 2016, 11:05:41 am
Quote from: ian on 27 May, 2016, 04:21:51 pm
Reminds me, I was passed going through Tooting by a bloke on a bike. Ordinary bicycle with a little petrol engine strapped to it. Didn't look very legal. ...

If there's a petrol engine operating on it, it's a motorcycle.  I've seen a couple of bicycle with electric motors this year, which were accelerating well past 20mph (the legal maximum speed for electrically assisted pedal cycles to be providing power assistance is 15.5mph).  In both these cases, unless they've got all sorts of things which are unlikely, such as type approval, VED (although I guess they no longer need a disc), number plates, insurance, MOT etc they're almost certainly breaking various laws.  Of course, without any identifying features, such as the non-present number plates, it's essentially impossible for us to do anything.

Unfortunately, both of the ones I saw, were behaving like complete assholes, and not using them even remotely safely.  If I had a useful way to identify them, or saw them more than once, I would report them to the Met.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 31 May, 2016, 12:06:41 am
No bank holiday for me today although a late start meant that Helen and I and a friend were able to ride to Alexandra Park fro a coffee and a sit in the sun. Shame that the herons appear to have gone.
Riding in to work, there was quite a party going on on the terrace of Albert's Shed. This was at about 14.30.
It was more subdued when I came back at 23.00 but I did wonder if anyone was still there from earlier.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 31 May, 2016, 08:07:00 am
Quite a stiff headwind this morning but the sun was nice, picked up a ticking noise, I suspect BB, didn't need that after this weekends performance with the gas guzzling dinosaur  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 31 May, 2016, 09:04:54 am
nagging headwind and laptop in pannier meant a slower than normal time, but half term traffic reductions more than compensated.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 31 May, 2016, 09:49:52 am
Stiff tailwind and glorious sunshine today to meet my first ride back after over a week on holiday 8)
Very Quick, though the return will be a bit slower.

Also happy that today I should pass 4000km for the year. Not much compared to some here, but my target is 8000km, so I'm a month ahead :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: inappropriate_bike on 31 May, 2016, 02:03:26 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 27 May, 2016, 09:30:56 am
If you're coming up from Blackfriars direction there's a quiet route via Fleet Street, Fetter lane, Red Lion Street, Brunswick Sq and Argyle Street which brings you out opposite Pancras Road where you have your own dedicated cycle crossing to get you over 8 lanes of motionless traffic.

That crossing will also take you via Argyle Street / Ampton Street into the generally pretty good cycle network around Islington although I agree that more signposts would be welcome. Generally following cycle route signs in London is a good way to end up a locked gate or flight of stairs.

Once it's finished the NS cycle superhighway is supposed to be extended up to King's Cross station which will make a pretty big difference.

https://consultations.tfl.gov.uk/cycling/northsouth

There are also some connections into/around the new KX development area. Might be good once the building work is finished.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SoreTween on 31 May, 2016, 05:55:01 pm
4 day weekend with lots of walking and no pedalling resulted in horribly leaden legs this morning.  This evening they will be leaden and soggy. Boo.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 01 June, 2016, 12:42:47 am
Definite headwind on the way home this evening. Since I couldn't be arsed, I just geared down and accepted the lower speed.
On the way in some temporary traffic lights have been added to the multitude of permanent sets. Unfortunately the new set were right in the middle of a Strava segment that I occasionally have a "go" at. It's still fairly new to me so I'm still making progress as it were. This afternoon's attempt seemed to be going well until I had to anchor on from 20+mph. Hey, ho. There's always next time.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 01 June, 2016, 08:03:42 am
More slogging into the wind this morning
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Torslanda on 01 June, 2016, 08:11:30 am
Quote from: Andrew Br on 01 June, 2016, 12:42:47 am
Definite headwind on the way home this evening. Since I couldn't be arsed, I just geared down and accepted the lower speed.
On the way in some temporary traffic lights have been added to the multitude of permanent sets. Unfortunately the new set were right in the middle of a Strava segment that I occasionally have a "go" at. It's still fairly new to me so I'm still making progress as it were. This afternoon's attempt seemed to be going well until I had to anchor on from 20+mph. Hey, ho. There's always next time.

When you will undoubtedly have to cope with a bi-directional headwind . . .


 . . . and a tractor.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 01 June, 2016, 09:18:16 am
Talking of tractors, I took my main road option today and a tractor driver tried to overtake me just before the downhill. In the end he was stuck in the middle of the road at about 30 mph. Of course the driver of questionable parentage decided to squeeze me to get out of the situation and I had to back off >:(

Other than that it was a lovely ride in with the sun out and wind at my back 8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 01 June, 2016, 09:30:39 am
Last nights wet windy miserable ride was made delightful by the lack of skool run. This mornings wet windy miserable ride was wet, windy, and miserable. This afternoons ride will be delightful again cos of no skool run.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 01 June, 2016, 09:51:20 am
The weather is upside down I'm happy to say.  While those in the darkest south complain of wet and windy, here in the north its blue skies and light winds.   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 01 June, 2016, 10:42:26 am
It was damp and drizzly this morning, the sort of weather that makes me wish I had disc brakes, because it makes the roads, rims, and pads, just that perfect combination of greasy damp to eliminate all friction.  But after Walton-on-Thames it stopped raining and I almost dried out by the time I made the office.  First cycle commute for 3 months - hopefully will be able to repeat the feat more frequently now that my work calendar has settled down and there are less client meetings in far flung places.  Mrs CET is away this evening so can go back by a scenic route if legs and weather permit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 01 June, 2016, 01:30:21 pm
Yesterday was a wonderful commute, rain was forecast, so Queenstown Road had zero other cyclists on it.  When it's been sunny recently, the fair weather cyclists appear in droves, and unfortunately Queenstown Road feeding onto Chelsea Bridge, is a pinch point for all commuter traffic, motorised and pedal powered.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: caerau on 01 June, 2016, 04:53:41 pm
I feel similarly about Bute Park in Cardiff on my cycle home.  It's far nicer when it's been raining as all the pedestrians disppear.  O:-) O:-) O:-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 01 June, 2016, 11:10:59 pm
Took the scenic route back from London through Ascot and the Wellingtonia Avenue to set a new PB for longest commute.  Now relaxing over some very tasty cheese from the isle of Wight (Gallybagger) and some Black Grouse.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 02 June, 2016, 12:30:14 am
Quote from: Andrew Br on 28 May, 2016, 12:09:00 am


Highlight of today's commute was the behaviour of the driver of Stagecoach's X57. He passed me twice, the first time after waiting quite a while until it was safe and then giving me loads of room. The second time he again waited but I was able to get onto the pavement (it was clear, I could see a long way) so he could get past. We parted at some traffic lights with a wave. I've e-mailed Stagecoach.


Stagecoach have replied and they're going to pass on my comments to the driver  :thumbsup:
I e-mailed in again this evening to also compliment a driver: another long wait before passing wide and slow.

Other than that, the only change was a diversion via West Didsbury on the way to work to sign some papers.
There was a fairly cold head wind on the return. I might have to put some shoe covers in the bag to accompany the waterproof, windproof, gloves and leg-warmers. Apart from the waterproof, I've used them all this week.

Not sure about a bike commute tomorrow; I have a job interview in Bolton in the morning so it depends when that finishes and what time I get home. Fingers crossed it goes well and I also get home early.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 02 June, 2016, 07:42:36 am
Quote from: TimO on 01 June, 2016, 01:30:21 pm
Yesterday was a wonderful commute, rain was forecast, so Queenstown Road had zero other cyclists on it.  When it's been sunny recently, the fair weather cyclists appear in droves, and unfortunately Queenstown Road feeding onto Chelsea Bridge, is a pinch point for all commuter traffic, motorised and pedal powered.
I had Clapham Common all to myself for the cycle training I was booked to run on Tuesday!  Only one client turned up though.  She was a complete beginner and was pleased that the torrential rain meant there were no witnesses to what she was sure was going to be her humiliating failure.  As it happens, she was pedalling independently after half an hour or so, even negotiating little slalom courses round the basketball court by the end of the session.  She had no decent waterproof kit, was soaked to the skin but grinning from ear to ear. That's the good news.  Bad news: my rather expensive, only year old waterproof chose that day to fail completely.  I was bone dry and warm from my waist to my feet, but absolutely saturated and chilled to the bone from waist to neck.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 02 June, 2016, 08:30:58 am
Very tough wind this morning so just eased off and accepted it was going to be slow
Quote from: Andrew Br on 02 June, 2016, 12:30:14 am
I have a job interview in Bolton in the morning so it depends when that finishes and what time I get home. Fingers crossed it goes well and I also get home early.

That'll be a challenging commute  :D Hope it goes well for you Andrew
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 02 June, 2016, 08:58:30 am
A splendid damp and windy traffic-free ride home last night. A rather cold, windy and damp ride in today. I decided to use the folder for a change, so it was a FUN cold, windy and damp ride in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 02 June, 2016, 09:14:23 am
What  a difference a day makes. No wevver. No headwind. No cyclists (until Bow). Few cars. What's not to like?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 02 June, 2016, 09:42:20 am
That was OK, the wind felt strong and in my face but the trees weren't moving... The cow parsley was when I rounded a couple of corners and really felt it.

However the low light was when on approach to a roundabout I entered lane two as it formed ready to turn right and was beeped by the driver behind, who then sounded his horn a second time as I took the fast line through the roundabout and delayed him for a total of about 2 seconds.  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 02 June, 2016, 09:53:44 am
Quote from: sg37409 on 01 June, 2016, 09:51:20 am
The weather is upside down I'm happy to say.  While those in the darkest south complain of wet and windy, here in the north its blue skies and light winds.   :thumbsup:

Not in this bit of the North East, thobut  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 02 June, 2016, 10:05:49 am
Very stiff winds today  :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 02 June, 2016, 10:38:52 am
Quote from: Pingu on 02 June, 2016, 09:53:44 am
Quote from: sg37409 on 01 June, 2016, 09:51:20 am
The weather is upside down I'm happy to say.  While those in the darkest south complain of wet and windy, here in the north its blue skies and light winds.   :thumbsup:

Not in this bit of the North East, thobut  :(

Nae luck pingu. Theres a cold breeze coming off the coast just now, but its not too bad, and more than made up for by the sunshine.

Couple of unusual spots in last couple of commutes: Last night a Brompton going full pelt along behind me, and doing evens for a while.  And night before, a fat-tyred machine all ready for a cross-Saharan adventure with bottles on the fork legs and frame bag, etc, also going unfeasibly fast.    Maybe is me whose getting slower...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 02 June, 2016, 11:08:54 am
Getting used to this sunshine, and the wind's dropped a little from yesterday which is good as it was quite a battle home into it yesterday evening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 02 June, 2016, 12:27:54 pm
Quote from: jane on 02 June, 2016, 07:42:36 am
I had Clapham Common all to myself for the cycle training I was booked to run on Tuesday!  Only one client turned up though.  She was a complete beginner and was pleased that the torrential rain meant there were no witnesses to what she was sure was going to be her humiliating failure.  As it happens, she was pedalling independently after half an hour or so, even negotiating little slalom courses round the basketball court by the end of the session.  She had no decent waterproof kit, was soaked to the skin but grinning from ear to ear. That's the good news.  Bad news: my rather expensive, only year old waterproof chose that day to fail completely.  I was bone dry and warm from my waist to my feet, but absolutely saturated and chilled to the bone from waist to neck.
Other than the wet bit, that sounds gloriously gratifying. Nice work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 02 June, 2016, 04:40:24 pm
Tuesday was a car commute due to an unfortunately located cyst that made sitting a saddle impossible.

Yesterday and today was Stache borne and lots of fun. The rain on Monday however did make for a few greasy slidey moments on the way in yesterday and a couple of tail slides off embankments on the way home.

This morning was a less slidey ride as I was ready for it. See how it goes on the way home.

I certainly have moar freckles after each ride thobut ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jane on 02 June, 2016, 06:26:09 pm
Quote from: hatler on 02 June, 2016, 12:27:54 pm
Quote from: jane on 02 June, 2016, 07:42:36 am
I had Clapham Common all to myself for the cycle training I was booked to run on Tuesday!  Only one client turned up though.  She was a complete beginner and was pleased that the torrential rain meant there were no witnesses to what she was sure was going to be her humiliating failure.  As it happens, she was pedalling independently after half an hour or so, even negotiating little slalom courses round the basketball court by the end of the session.  She had no decent waterproof kit, was soaked to the skin but grinning from ear to ear. That's the good news.  Bad news: my rather expensive, only year old waterproof chose that day to fail completely.  I was bone dry and warm from my waist to my feet, but absolutely saturated and chilled to the bone from waist to neck.
Other than the wet bit, that sounds gloriously gratifying. Nice work.
I'm so lucky to be able to do this job, which I do really enjoy,  and have a little pension to supplement the pay.   It's all the best things about teaching and hardly any of the other stuff which stressed me and meant I was practically always working.  However, If I had to pay a large London size rent and survive solely on what I could make from the job, I'm not sure I would enjoy it quite so much.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 02 June, 2016, 10:48:22 pm
Quote from: Si S on 02 June, 2016, 08:30:58 am
........
Quote from: Andrew Br on 02 June, 2016, 12:30:14 am
I have a job interview in Bolton in the morning so it depends when that finishes and what time I get home. Fingers crossed it goes well and I also get home early.

That'll be a challenging commute  :D Hope it goes well for you Andrew

Thanks Si.
The job, if I got it, wouldn't be based in Bolton. I think the nearest "facility" is in Stalyvegas Stalybridge but I don't think I'd have to go there very often.

Anyway, despite the congestion around the Traffic Trafford Centre ("Hey it's a lovely sunny day, let's go shopping") I got back in plenty of time to get ready to ride into work.
Better still, I managed to finish early and I'm home before my shift is scheduled to end yet I'm still being paid  :thumbsup:.

There's not much to say about today's commute except that the temporary traffic lights had gone on the return journey and I've also worked out the lights at Parrs Wood (both directions); I need to give it everything from the 1st red light in the sequence and keep going. No half measures or I won't get through.
It adds interest.

Day off tomorrow and again Sunday and Monday.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 02 June, 2016, 11:03:37 pm
It was such a sunny day I rode over Cold Fell on the way home. New PB over the fell, but my legs aren't too sure that was wise.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 03 June, 2016, 08:04:42 am
Absolutely stonking tailwind last night, so much o that I managed to set the KOM on a strava segment that forms part of my mates favourite loop, that should give him something to do on his extended leave  :D

Lovely and sunny this morning, just cruising along enjoying the sun and the fact that the niggle in my knee seems to be easing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 03 June, 2016, 08:31:33 am
Flaming June. I nearly turned back to get my gloves this morning. Brrrrr
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 03 June, 2016, 08:32:11 am
This mornings commute was ruined by godawful wind. Not a headwind. Not a cross wind. A tail wind.

How does a tail wind ruin a ride? It was a self generated tail wind, that's how.

I started the ride in agony due to imprisoned flatulence. The sort of pain that only Kane could understand before his demise. I tried to work through it but the physical efforts of riding and ascending did little to improve matters. It wasn't until I got to the common adjacent to Grubwood Lane that relief was possible.

The well horse trodden paths were very rutted and bumpy. This really shook things up. I could feel the transit of the wind through my plumbing and Oh, the wondrous wind! The tremendous trump! The gorgeous guff! The fanfare of farts! My speed must have increased by 30%. It certainly felt like it.

I don't know if there is another word to describe what I suffered. Flatulence doesn't do it justice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 03 June, 2016, 03:07:46 pm
Yesterday morning, I met a wheelchair athlete on Queenstown Road, I assume he was out training, since he was doing a fairly consistent 27-28kph on the flat, and the guy on the bicycle was occasionally talking to him.

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/small.php?size=256&file=20160602_WheelchairAthlete_1.jpg) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/20160602_WheelchairAthlete_1.jpg)   (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/small.php?size=256&file=20160602_WheelchairAthlete_2.jpg) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/20160602_WheelchairAthlete_2.jpg)

I've seen hand cranked cycle(s) on Queenstown Road occasionally, but that's the first time I've met a proper racing wheelchair, and he was easily going a lot faster than an hand cyclist I've met.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 04 June, 2016, 11:16:16 pm
Just me commuting today ? Sigh.
Ah well, at least I had a day off yesterday and I'm also off Sunday and Monday. Think I'll go for a bike ride or two  ;D.
Today's commute was enlivened by starting it in Whitefield (I was at Helen's last night) although I broke it at home to pick up work gear.
Another early finish put the temptation of stopping for a pint in the way but I was strong 'cos I knew had some beer in the fridge.
Sadly it turned out to be just one can of Wainwright (which was delicious) but I'd really like another.
I'm having to make do with low alcohol Erdinger which is good but not as good.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 06 June, 2016, 09:01:27 am
Glorious; shorts, short sleeve top and sunglasses for the commute  8)

All was going well despite the increased traffic after half term until I unshipped the chain. Fortunately it went outboard so I could coast round the corner out of traffic to refit it. Blew what was on to be a very quick ride in thanks to playing leap frog with another rider down the A329.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 06 June, 2016, 09:18:07 am
Chilly fog this morning, though it's warming up nicely now and looks set to be shorts and sunglasses for the ride home
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 06 June, 2016, 09:38:59 am
Lovely weather today but the ride didn't go quite to plan. I set off on my road bike, but it didn't feel right. Turns out the front brake isn't releasing. Limped that home and tried to get it to free up, before having to get the singlespeed out of the spare room instead, which of course isn't compatible with the same luggage so I had to search out the bags that fit, and the tyres needed some air as I haven't ridden it for a while.

44x18 is definitely getting a bit spinny now, especially when I'm in a hurry.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 06 June, 2016, 08:28:30 pm
BONK!

That is all.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 06 June, 2016, 11:20:48 pm
The ride home was accompanied by a noisy (knocking and tinkling) rear wheel. I decided to inspect after dinner. Removed wheel, removed cassette, free hub came off in my hands. There seems to have been some snappage :o

(http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b360/mattlangridge/DSC05869.jpg) (http://s23.photobucket.com/user/mattlangridge/media/DSC05869.jpg.html)

(http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b360/mattlangridge/DSC05871.jpg) (http://s23.photobucket.com/user/mattlangridge/media/DSC05871.jpg.html)

(http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b360/mattlangridge/DSC05874.jpg) (http://s23.photobucket.com/user/mattlangridge/media/DSC05874.jpg.html)

(http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b360/mattlangridge/DSC05873.jpg) (http://s23.photobucket.com/user/mattlangridge/media/DSC05873.jpg.html)

Somehow I don't think it is going to buff out.........
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jakob W on 07 June, 2016, 08:56:06 am
Bit of Araldite, surely?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 07 June, 2016, 03:17:16 pm
What was holding it together? Skewer?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 07 June, 2016, 05:27:33 pm
 I made the rider of a passenger-less bakfiets style velocipede giggle. He'd stopped and was waiting at the other (Uni) side of the silly-sustrans-gate-with-bonus-cattle-grid onto the Stray as assorted cyclists passed, and waved me through too. As I passed (on my stokerless tandem) I called out - "Federation of Silly Bikes - unite!".

In other news, yesterday's couple of hours of combined utility riding/commuting-on-my-day-off has left me a touch pink.  It appears to be summer this week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 07 June, 2016, 05:57:44 pm
Good one! But they're sensible bikes really!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 07 June, 2016, 07:12:09 pm
Another trip over Cold Fell on the way home, and this time up the other hill out of Ennerdale Bridge. I'm not sure it's getting easier but I am getting faster :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 07 June, 2016, 07:49:41 pm
Quote from: Paul on 07 June, 2016, 03:17:16 pm
What was holding it together? Skewer?

It would seem so but, I still managed to get the cassette lock ring off without realising the extent of the damage.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SoreTween on 07 June, 2016, 08:13:32 pm
As I turned the last corner into work this morning a pedestrian stepped straight into the road in front of me, not a hint of checking first.  I'd anticipated this and the was no risk of drama.  As I passed behind her I said, really really trying to be as polite as possible, 'You really ought to check it is clear before crossing the road'.  Her answer in the poshest of voices was 'Walking was invented before cycling you know'.

Eh?

The unsaid witty comeback to which that it took till lunch time for Mr Slowbrain here to come up with was "So were funerals."  Next time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 07 June, 2016, 08:39:32 pm
Quote from: SoreTween on 07 June, 2016, 08:13:32 pm
... Her answer in the poshest of voices was 'Walking was invented before cycling you know'. ...

I wonder if she tries that approach, when stepping out in front of an HGV? :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: caerau on 07 June, 2016, 08:43:36 pm
Quote from: TimO on 07 June, 2016, 08:39:32 pm
Quote from: SoreTween on 07 June, 2016, 08:13:32 pm
... Her answer in the poshest of voices was 'Walking was invented before cycling you know'. ...

I wonder if she tries that approach, when stepping out in front of an HGV? :facepalm:


Meh, you can hear motor vehicles, why do you need eyes... ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 07 June, 2016, 08:48:22 pm
Not mine, you can't!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 08 June, 2016, 07:57:18 am
I was splattered with big splodges af rain in the last half mile yesterday, but made it indoors just in time :thumbsup: (The thunder grumbled on for abot 4 hours)

A nasty, knee-sapping, muggy ride in this morning
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 08 June, 2016, 09:08:07 am
Today, I learned that excusing the practice of following behind a shapely lycra clad rear on the cycle superhighway can, in weather conditions such as existed, lead to instant karma, aka a facefull of skog. Next time, I will have to extend my circle of awareness to include the mudguard status of the rear wheel.

In my defence I thought it better not to overtake at that point, to avoid what happened to me a little further along, viz a knobhead from the other direction who just HAD to overtake forcing me as far over to the left as possible, and passing within about 3" at speed. But I should still have noticed that mudguard absence  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 08 June, 2016, 09:14:25 am
After three days off the bike it seemed like my legs had forgotten how, took most of the ride in to get any rhythm going.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 08 June, 2016, 09:33:18 am
Yesterday: Much rain.
Today: Much green.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 08 June, 2016, 09:40:08 am
It's all gone foggy!

Spent an annoyingly long part of the ride stuck behind a tractor (who's driver did a MGIF pass just before the crest of a hill and then got in my way for the next 2 miles, especially when he had to stop for cars coming the other way)

I did think it was getting really foggy but it was actually condensation on my specs. Just hoping we don't get a thunder storm on the way home as, although it would drop the humidity nicely, I'd prefer not to get soaked.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 09 June, 2016, 08:35:01 am
Yesterday was glorious in both directions. I managed to leave work 30 minutes after the rain had stopped so the humidity was down as well. then I passed 3 other cyclists on the way home when I don't normally see anyone going the same way as me.

This morning was a quick run in with a couple of cyclists to chase before they turned off and only one traffic delay.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 09 June, 2016, 09:04:11 am
After yesterday's pair of swelteringly hot muggy rides it was a bit of a shock to step out into grey skies and chilly air. I had to wear a fleece this morning!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 09 June, 2016, 04:27:06 pm
There's a new bit of infra open on Oxford Road, think I'll go and have a play on the way home, just need to make sure I get out of it before the Floating Bus Stop of Doom.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 09 June, 2016, 11:46:51 pm
Despite an early shift, I rode in this morning and rather enjoyed it.
Coming home would have been uneventful apart from a "helpful" passenger in a car advising me to use the cycle path. That would be the cycle path that requires cyclists to cross to the other side of the road to get on it and then re-cross when it ends. It seems that he's also a cyclist and he was only concerned about my safety.
More seriously, I was nearly taken out by a left turning car, just after it overtook me. The driver was on the 'phone.
Braking (I managed to lock the rear wheel because it wasn't on the ground) and swearing did the trick, just.
Day off tomorrow and I'm unlikely to ride in on Saturday but I'm planning to on Sunday.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 10 June, 2016, 08:33:58 am
Quote from: Si S on 09 June, 2016, 04:27:06 pm
There's a new bit of infra open on Oxford Road, think I'll go and have a play on the way home, just need to make sure I get out of it before the Floating Bus Stop of Doom.

It's alright that  could do with being wide enough to pass but at least you can break out into the road.

Came in on Ozzy today to check that the tubeless repair was holding and its seems so, was just taking it easy until I got caught by a guy from Warrington Road Club at Stretford, so took a tow past Longford Park, had to put a bit of effort in to hold on, he's a bit rapid.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 10 June, 2016, 08:34:20 pm
I ducked out a little early from the limping club in the hospital physio department gym and set off to ride to work.  About 5 minutes later it started to drizzle and, since my route went near home, I popped in and grabbed a spare pair of jeans to go into the pannier alongside the t-shirt that was already there.

This turned out to be the best idea I had all day, since about 5 minutes later (with about 8 miles to go) the heavens opened.  It continued to piss it down the whole way, and two oncoming vehicles on the B1228 managed to also give me a top to toe shower...

I spent most of the journey giggling, and got grins, waves and even a thumbs up from a several of drivers along the way.

On the way back I decided to explore the other option on the comedy off-road route - it is fractionally less silly, but there's not a lot in it.  I made it to within 10 minutes of home before getting the second to-the-skin drenching of the day and decided I couldn't get much wetter so diverted to the audax control M&S to see if anything good was wearing a yellow sticker of joy today.  They were just ringing through my purchases when they had to shut due to someone noticing the large amount of water that had come through the roof and was heading towards assorted electricals so I paid as they switched things off and communicated via sign to th waiting drivers that no, they couldn't have any petrol, then (because the automatic doors were one of the things the big red button switches off) I had to go out the staff door at the back.

Actually a rather good day of commuting!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 11 June, 2016, 04:04:26 pm
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 10 June, 2016, 08:34:20 pm
...(because the automatic doors were one of the things the big red button switches off) I had to go out the staff door at the back. ...

That sounds like an exceptionally bad design, if there's a fire alarm and the power fails.  The doors should really fail safe, ie opening by default, or at least being trivially pushed open.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 13 June, 2016, 08:23:02 am
Despite doing a lot of gardening, walking, and a smidgen of utility cycling, I've got unfit[1] so have decided a daily commute is essential if I want to live much longer. Also, I was having problems "waking up" in the morning. I'd get up at my usual 0530 but then just amble around half asleep for hours. I realised I need a physical demarcation to start me up for the day. I'm considering it a "commute" for the purposes of thread-choice as it does take me to my current role of Interim(?) Head of Domestic Services.

I've just completed a very pleasant 6 mile loop/commute. Only about two miles of mild of traffic and the rest either traffic-free or very, very low traffic. Very wet today. But exactly what I need in the morning.

[1] I've self diagnosed myself as having a dodgy ticker. Whenever I start going at it a bit harder, I get stonking pains in my arms and, to a small degree, my chest (although that could well be psychosomatic). This didn't happen when I was commuting so I'm concluding I simply need to get more miles in. I do have an appt with the quack but I doubt there's much they can actually do apart from telling me to not smoke, not drink, eat healthily, and get more exercise.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 13 June, 2016, 08:42:19 am
Bravo !!  Wish I was as disciplined as that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 13 June, 2016, 08:50:26 am
Quote from: hatler on 13 June, 2016, 08:42:19 am
Bravo !!  Wish I was as disciplined as that.

I'm holding back on the self-congratulations for a while - today is, after all, only Day 1! We'll only discover how much discipline I actually have when we're into the windblown and rainwashed cold darkness of the winter months.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 13 June, 2016, 10:20:52 am
Good luck over the longer term. I hope you can keep the habit when it's cold and dark :)

If you are noticing any pains in arms and especially chest, it's probably best to get your doctor to confirm your diagnosis. If nothing else it would be piece of mind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 13 June, 2016, 10:22:49 am
Wet today for the first time this month. Not torrential but heavy fine rain that got everything wet. There was a lot of what looked like detergent around on the roads which was a bit worrying.

Then immediately got called in for a random drugs/alcohol test, made me feel a bit like a pro cyclist ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Divingrob on 13 June, 2016, 03:40:51 pm
My commute takes me up past East Midlands Airport, great seeing Ed Force One parked up this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 13 June, 2016, 06:40:30 pm
Going through Norbury on the A23, they appear to have been hit by Guerilla Knitters over the weekend.  They'd yarnstormed various trees, streetlights, signposts and Sheffield stands. ;D

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/small.php?size=200&file=GuerillaKnitting_20160613_3.jpg) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/GuerillaKnitting_20160613_3.jpg)  (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/small.php?size=200&file=GuerillaKnitting_20160613_2.jpg) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/GuerillaKnitting_20160613_2.jpg)  (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/small.php?size=200&file=GuerillaKnitting_20160613_1.jpg) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/GuerillaKnitting_20160613_1.jpg)

(Not very good photos taken from the rear camera, the forward camera had too many drips on the lens, making for somewhat psychedelic views!)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 13 June, 2016, 09:24:09 pm
Quote from: TimO on 11 June, 2016, 04:04:26 pm
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 10 June, 2016, 08:34:20 pm
...(because the automatic doors were one of the things the big red button switches off) I had to go out the staff door at the back. ...

That sounds like an exceptionally bad design, if there's a fire alarm and the power fails.  The doors should really fail safe, ie opening by default, or at least being trivially pushed open.

I expect they probably do, unless already locked.  But you wouldn't expect the average member of shop staff to know about the intricacies of manually operating the automatic door without breaking anything, when for fire safety purposes the solution is going to be "use the back door or break the glass".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 14 June, 2016, 06:20:10 pm
Went with the tidal flow of traffic this evening - which is a novelty for the ever-contrarian me. On my rather busy rural-edge rat run route, this turned out to be far preferable to heading into the flow of traffic as I've done in the past.

No really scarily insane closing speeds. And, "primary" position [1] can get a bit nerve wracking on a narrow lane with 60mph oncoming traffic where *if all goes to plan* you'll have 6" clearance - trust me. But with the traffic behind me, I had control. Much, much better. And come winter and darkness - I won't be perpetually blinded by undipped headlights.

[1] Terminology doesn't really apply when describing a lane just wide enough for two cars to pass. But I do ride somewhat out - away from the frayed tarmac edge and ditch, out of reach of wayward brambles, and in control of any motor vehicle wanting to overtake.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: dim on 14 June, 2016, 08:42:51 pm
my Sigma 16.12 STS bike computer fell off the mount and fell into a drain .... I'm well pissed off  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SoreTween on 14 June, 2016, 10:16:11 pm
Thanks Woking but after the day I've had I did not need:

1) Berk stopped about a foot from the left kerb (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.3168287,-0.5597873,3a,75y,124.09h,65.12t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sVMy97hYtuVFydUYN647HEw!2e0!7i13312!8i6656) to let a passenger get in, car up my trumpet as I pass, stopped car starts to move as car behind me is passing him.

2) Entire footpath on left barriered off (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.3168403,-0.5588918,3a,75y,83.23h,62.19t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sfKj4P-8Ru5mtQ16tPnhmOw!2e0!7i13312!8i6656), pedestrians walking in road towards me, car behind now right up trumpet.

3) Taxis queued on the left back to this point (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.3171688,-0.5578561,3a,75y,83.23h,62.19t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1s1G04DnPf4w21N23Fasb20Q!2e0!7i13312!8i6656) so I'm blocking the road again as I'm not going in their door zone thankyouverymuch.  Noisy van up trumpet.

4) There's the start of the taxi rank (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.3175075,-0.5569489,3a,75y,83.23h,62.19t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sq8U2o4EgnvzorlPHaWT3sQ!2e0!7i13312!8i6656), by now the van behind is so close I can feel the draft from his radiator fan.

5) My turn to be dumb (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.3176527,-0.5565608,3a,75y,50.27h,74.33t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1s3-j1xVKhhF-dzL4TqXbgRA!2e0!7i13312!8i6656), I didn't come close to observing the pedestrians waiting at the crossing being slightly distracted by what I now know is a Sainburys delivery van behind.  May have to get a Fly6.

6) Line of cars parked on my right/their left (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.3177549,-0.5561793,3a,75y,157.71h,76.67t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1svzIA-vXW37nvUAPLW_5LNQ!2e0!7i13312!8i6656) from the blue part of the building to the nearer dropped curb.  Ahead an oncoming car pauses as he realises he cannot get through with me in the way.  Ah sod it, he changes his mind and comes through anyway.

7) Two pedestrians walking side by side in the bike lane (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.3164504,-0.5553928,3a,75y,157.71h,76.67t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1s3iGjw7C4zg8YwMx8TZT3AQ!2e0!7i13312!8i6656).  FFS why when there's that massive pavement on the right?  Cars thankfully absent as I pass blocking the road again.

8) Car stopped at the dropped kerb (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.3104179,-0.5584207,3a,75y,220.68h,76.13t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sK_EtKw2TIgBhB-fHM-fZxw!2e0!7i13312!8i6656) on the left (to let passenger out) pulls away without the slightest of checking shoulder or mirrors as I am alongside her.  She even manages to glance ahead and turn her head back to the left to continue waving at her ex-passenger while beginning to turn right at the T with me alongside.  I have no idea how what I shouted was polite.  None at all.

Little bit of respite after that until:

9) Two overtakes round the outside on the bend. (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.3025384,-0.5610785,3a,75y,52.6h,56.13t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1stFqEDp2nH98GoB6-CEO0HQ!2e0!7i13312!8i6656)

Longer respite including:

10) The road has been narrowed here (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.2892114,-0.5813141,3a,75y,250.82h,81.67t/data=!3m7!1e1!3m5!1sg8O8MKbFF4nlANfyZCl4kw!2e0!6s%2F%2Fgeo3.ggpht.com%2Fcbk%3Fpanoid%3Dg8O8MKbFF4nlANfyZCl4kw%26output%3Dthumbnail%26cb_client%3Dmaps_sv.tactile.gps%26thumb%3D2%26w%3D203%26h%3D100%26yaw%3D183.09715%26pitch%3D0!7i13312!8i6656) for a long distance, a pavment has been built on the left reducing the width under the bridge to a generous single lane. Priority is against me.  As I approach there's nothing oncoming so I proceed through.  Oh look, an oncoming car - here we go aga.... He's stopped!  He's waiting.  Thank you Mr Silver Battenberg estate driver, I could have kissed you.

11) WVM passed me here (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.2935123,-0.5912292,3a,75y,29.86h,77.1t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1ss_YNomnq3xx_WFJtLj1V2A!2e0!7i13312!8i6656), bit close to the junction but not the worst of the evening.  Or indeed the minute.

12) Woman with ear buds in (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.2937234,-0.5912762,3a,75y,30.74h,68.12t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1s2_VCIfu2cSU6atsNo4IB4A!2e0!7i13312!8i6656) piloting a silver jap coupe of some kind passed me here, cut left right in front of me and positioned herself to turn left without indicating.  I did pass her on the hatched area.  I did cut in front of her.  I did proceed along the middle of the road in front of her.  I did give the dozy wench both verbal barrels.

13) Sound of naff exhaust twatmobile approaching from behind (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.2939053,-0.5922286,3a,75y,292.4h,78.88t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sWeVhokrKmPBexOjFMMsPZQ!2e0!7i13312!8i6656), oncoming car, just enough time for twat to squeeze by?  No.  Driver slowed, waited and passed fully over the other side of the road and got a wave of thanks as he or she passed.  It was a matt black, lowered, blacked windows, cabbage launcher exhaust full on barryboys entrant.  Not a twat at all at the wheel.  Personal automatic reaction to suspensionless, cabbage launcher equipped, chavved up wallymobiles adjusted.  Slightly.  But in a favourable direction.

14) The white van that passed me here (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.2938315,-0.596721,3a,75y,304.18h,86.4t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1ssza3gDGgWXXNcTp7nWfLqQ!2e0!7i13312!8i6656) could probably see enough round the corner to be safe.  The 4 following cars that tailed him at decreasing distance from the sharper, blind bend just out of sight could increaingly not.  IYSWIM.

15) Astonishingly, nothing at all happened going through this tunnel. (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.3053917,-0.6130758,3a,75y,354.07h,76.99t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sq3d4dNqbN56-5I5uvVmZ8Q!2e0!7i13312!8i6656)

16) At this point I took to the canal towpath on the right. (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.3074863,-0.614363,3a,75y,22.99h,82.72t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sIhYiHJ_aWVEN8X0x5azb4g!2e0!7i13312!8i6656)  (I was not the wrong side of the road, I had escaped to the pavement) All the pedestrians and oncoming cyclists were polite, all dogs were restrained and a pleasant half mile followed.

17) I had specifically planned on not having a beer tonight but after that along with solids Mr Co-op sold (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.312286,-0.5954711,3a,75y,84.19h,90.81t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sEEvI8VMLYgAcRhqa9Nt_1Q!2e0!7i13312!8i6656) one Old Crafty Hen, one Bengal Lancer and one Guiness West Indies Porter.  I considered continuing back to digs on the road, the surface being the sightly smoother of the options but decided I'd had enough so I shook up my beers across St John's Lye. 

18) I decided to cycle carefully along the footpath that leads to Pond Road (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.309407,-0.5936888,16.5z).  My punishment for this decision was my Topeak Trunkbag with dinner and beer inside slid gracefully off the back of my new rack and crashed onto the ground where, astonishingly after the day I've had, no bottles smashed.

19) I may stay in bed or get a taxi to work tomorrow.  A big, solid one with crumple zones 6 feet deep if I can find such a thing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pancho on 15 June, 2016, 06:49:06 am
SoreTween - chill your beans, man. The unsmashed beer bottles show that the universe is smiling on you.

Was up early and didn't fancy trying to get any more sleep in defiance of the rose red fingers of dawn. So did my "commute" a bit earlier than usual (around 0500). It was wonderful - views of a blue crystal sea, soundtrack of birdsong, and not a single motorcar. I would have extended my ride but didn't want the household to wake and find me missing.

Aside from now being hungry, I can't ask for a better start to the day!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 15 June, 2016, 10:41:30 am
On Ampthill Road last night, on sit-up-and-beg hybrid with fat tyres, mudguards, panniers and all the accoutrements of modern living, Ivory-coloured KIA Soul, which had been waiting patiently behind me past parked cars and central bollards, overtakes. As it draws level the female passenger leaned out and shouted, in a very incredulous tone of voice "Twenny marls an ahre on that fing!?!?!" :smug:

Different story this morning. Some nasty bugger came in my house while I was sleeping last night and filled my legs with lead >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: essexian on 15 June, 2016, 11:36:52 am
Not sure if this is the right place for this but....

Does anyone have any experience of commuting along the A34 from Walsall to Birmingham between 9am and 10am on a weekday? If I try to do so, will I be killed completely to death? I used to drive it (back in the 1990's) but never thought about whether it was suitable to cycle.

I do note that there are quite a few sections of bus lanes and one or two cycle paths but overall, is it worth it, or should I take the back road via Wednesbury and Hampstead? The back route is some miles longer and a much more difficult route to follow.

Any suggestions gratefully received.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 15 June, 2016, 04:36:05 pm
Quote from: essexian on 15 June, 2016, 11:36:52 am
Not sure if this is the right place for this but....

Does anyone have any experience of commuting along the A34 from Walsall to Birmingham between 9am and 10am on a weekday? If I try to do so, will I be killed completely to death? I used to drive it (back in the 1990's) but never thought about whether it was suitable to cycle.

I do note that there are quite a few sections of bus lanes and one or two cycle paths but overall, is it worth it, or should I take the back road via Wednesbury and Hampstead? The back route is some miles longer and a much more difficult route to follow.

Any suggestions gratefully received.

Yes everyday for about 3 years, when I lived in Aldridge.

It's horrible, but doable and the road is nice and wide so you should be alright.

D.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 15 June, 2016, 05:23:42 pm
I defer to davelodwig's expert opinion, only having ridden it a handful of times (mostly in the afternoon), but concur with the conclusion.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 15 June, 2016, 05:34:37 pm
Never done it in the rush hour, but I'm going to say doable, but not particularly scenic.  You'll see cyclists on any road in Brum during the rush hour.
To be honest, I used to find rush hour commuting drivers were better and more bike aware than those later in the day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SoreTween on 15 June, 2016, 10:16:43 pm
Chill pill taken.  Much better day.  Still full on at work so had to take the train down to Guildford to meet Mr Bond for beers but did the right thing back.  No motons, no fuss, just lovely.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 16 June, 2016, 08:14:12 am
Slightly dodgy knee and guts like a washing machine on spin, that was probably over ambitious, I feel very  :sick: again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 June, 2016, 11:03:44 am
GWS Si.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 16 June, 2016, 12:08:56 pm
I've had Friday legs all week, fortunately I have tomorrow off.

Also where have all those other cyclists come from? I normally see 2-5 going the other way to me but the last couple of weeks that number has been up to about 10 but also, more importantly, riders going my way.  :thumbsup: Some seem to be doing very similar paces to me others I catch and pass. Occasionally (like this morning) I get passed when I run out of cadence down the only hill.  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 16 June, 2016, 07:49:11 pm
Well.  Either $DEITY$ likes me or some I'm in for some seriously bad karma and soon.  Dry ride and misty to the offices of The Inquisition this morning with the expectation of getting very wet on my escape  therefrom.  Yea (and probably verily as well) there was a brightness and a shining when I fled the place of a thousand and one tortures but, alack and alas (with the odd "oh woe" thrown in for good measure),  a blackness and a dark threatening was creeping  o'er the bowl of the very heavens so did I strive with all my might e'en as though I was being pursued by Satan Incarnate (George Osborne as it happens) and thus did I arrive at mine abode dry of foot and absent the breath of my body.  Truly; I was puggled. And as I swung open the sanctuary portal came there a great noise in the heavens and shortly thereafter it... bloody well _pissed_ it down, but I was inside with a cheesy great grin plastered over my chops.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 16 June, 2016, 10:45:35 pm
Somehow I missed all the rain. It seemed everywhere but over me. Or than a brief splutter on the last league. Took the hilly route, the bactrian leg squeaker that involves Crystal Palace and the Fateful Rise of Sanderstead, on account of a large number of macaroons consumed at lunchtime. With a full panniers (including a litre of home-distilled Serbian hooch).

Reminded me that I really should get my gears fixed. I only have the middle ones because something vital seized up and wiggling the lever does naught. I did buy some new cable but have yet to get around to it. I know, I know, there will be tears. Sadly it takes six weeks of well-meaning intent before I can safely take it to a shop. It's fine when I'm pootling around with my wife who is occasionally outpaced by dawdling molluscs, alas on the A23 reaching any kind of traffic-beating velocity involving whirling my legs around like a dervish. I think they've worked loose.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 17 June, 2016, 08:27:13 am
Quote from: clarion on 16 June, 2016, 11:03:44 am
GWS Si.

Cheers clarion. I'm getting there but it's taken a helluva lot out of me, lazily cruising along this morning and got passed by a regular from Warrington Road Club who was pushing his usual 53x13 gear with an ultra low cadence and making it all look very easy, really struggled to hold his wheel for the 3 miles to Stretford.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 17 June, 2016, 09:02:35 am
I'm joining the how did I not get drenched that last night group. Left work and 4 miles to an IChemE event then 10 miles home. thunder during the event and after I got home but dry while I rode.

Also the route home included some COR which on my fixie with the laptop in a pannier was interesting. At one location I stalled when the rear broke traction coming out of a bomb hole. Fortunately I got the correct foot out for the way the bike started to topple.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 17 June, 2016, 10:03:43 am
Yesterday: Forgot my helmet. Felt a bit exposed initially, then enjoyed the airy non-sweaty feel.
The slightly more vulnerable feel is probably a good thing on the commute. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 17 June, 2016, 10:20:45 am
Quote from: ian on 16 June, 2016, 10:45:35 pm
Reminded me that I really should get my gears fixed. I only have the middle ones because something vital seized up and wiggling the lever does naught. I did buy some new cable but have yet to get around to it. I know, I know, there will be tears. Sadly it takes six weeks of well-meaning intent before I can safely take it to a shop. It's fine when I'm pootling around with my wife who is occasionally outpaced by dawdling molluscs, alas on the A23 reaching any kind of traffic-beating velocity involving whirling my legs around like a dervish. I think they've worked loose.

Perhaps you should consider getting a fixer, though that way lies bottomless perdition, a large bushy beard and, potentially, untidy hair :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 20 June, 2016, 08:14:15 am
Mancunian weather and I forgot my socks so soggy feet for a couple of hours, nice tailwind though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 20 June, 2016, 02:02:30 pm
I had to get off and push up half of Quarry Wood Road ascent this morning. Saw a rainbow coloured sheen across the road but no smell of oil, diesel or petrol. I then felt like the rear had punctured. No puncture just loss of traction >:(

Cue stepping off before falling off. Teetered to the top in SPD SL equipped shoes and sliding on the slick.

Called the police to alert them to the risk.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 20 June, 2016, 11:28:13 pm
Unlike Si S, I managed to miss the Mancunian weather although the roads were still very wet.
I could tell that I hadn't ridden my bike much in the previous week because it was quite hard work going in.
Coming home was a bit easier.
Day off tomorrow so I'm planning to ride up the Whitefield and I'll commute into work from there on Wednesday.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 21 June, 2016, 08:17:28 am
It's not coming easy at the moment, feels like I'm riding through treacle but my times seem to be quick enough  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 21 June, 2016, 12:25:42 pm
Nothing much of note except a really overgrown shared use path but just over joyed to be cycling to work again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 21 June, 2016, 12:44:47 pm
Me, the lovely bridge and a tailwind. Great to be back on it
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 21 June, 2016, 12:46:11 pm
Since the threat (or actuality) of rain had receded, I was on the fixed today instead of the Tube. No major dramas and even chatted about the sunshine with another cyclist caught at the lights.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 21 June, 2016, 02:54:15 pm
My commute today was rather different. I'm working in the Prague office with the other half of the team.
I brought my bike with me (of course!) so the commute involved dodging tramlines and an awful lot of cobblestones. Also a revolving Franz Kafka statue and views across the Vltava.  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 21 June, 2016, 03:02:15 pm
This.

http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-edinburgh-east-fife-36586302

Colleague chose today to get the bus and ended up with a long walk :-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 21 June, 2016, 04:41:38 pm
I just passed a guy carrying a border terrier on his shoulders while riding.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 21 June, 2016, 05:33:24 pm
Impressive!

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 21 June, 2016, 09:08:54 pm
Nearly died as I just missed the car that decided to go the wrong end of the carriageway as I was crossing it. I didn't look left as I wasn't expecting a car to come around that way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 21 June, 2016, 09:41:46 pm
I'd prefer that you didn't die. Don't trust those buggers an inch next time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SoreTween on 21 June, 2016, 11:20:54 pm
Glass on the towpath this morning.  Predictable discovery after work.  Still, it was a pleasant evening pedal once sorted.  Head in a much more chilled place this week, not even the predictable moton on That Junction could shake my calm.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 22 June, 2016, 08:11:38 am
It appears the treacle effect is due to the Mrs sharing her summer cold thing, 11 hours sleep seem to have made a difference though, average speed up a little this morning for what felt like less effort
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 22 June, 2016, 10:57:20 pm
This morning I rode back to ChorltonCH from Whitefield into quite a strong headwind.
After doing a few errands on the bike, I rode to work. Into the same headwind.
Coming home, there wasn't much of a tailwind; every time I stopped at a traffic light I tried to feel where the wind was coming from. Largely, I concluded, from the side.
Not long until I'm on holiday  :thumbsup:

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 23 June, 2016, 08:17:09 am
Mild, Murky and Muggy today. Yuck
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 23 June, 2016, 09:22:15 am
Even though there was only a small amount of rain on my commute, the northern end of Tooting Bec Common, where it always floods (https://goo.gl/maps/e7Q3hwVa3En) was spectacularly flooded.  There was probably over 500 feet of path where the water was over 6 inches, and around 100 foot or so, where it was a at least a couple of feet deep.

I had to abandon the "one foot out of pedal, and other foot wobbling at the top of stroke" approach, that would keep my feet dry, because the drag from the water was just too much.  The value of waterproof shoes is somewhat less, when the tops of the shoes are below the water level !

After that, there was some sort of accident on Queenstown Road, under one of the railway bridges, that I still can't work out.  They must have moved vehicles and/or bicycles/pedestrians before I got there, but the traffic was backed up to the A3, with the normal number of people making things worse by poor road positioning, or deciding to do U-turns and three-point (or five or seven ...) turns.

It took me about 20 minutes longer than usual to get into work, which is almost as bad as when I'm cycling through fresh snow and ice. :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 23 June, 2016, 09:24:23 am
Manchester seemed to be utterly deserted this morning  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 23 June, 2016, 11:54:44 am
Quote from: Si S on 23 June, 2016, 09:24:23 am
Manchester seemed to be utterly deserted this morning  ???

Perhaps they have all taken the advice of Boris, Gove and Farrage too literaly?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 23 June, 2016, 01:07:57 pm
Quote from: TimO on 23 June, 2016, 09:22:15 am
Even though there was only a small amount of rain on my commute, the northern end of Tooting Bec Common, where it always floods (https://goo.gl/maps/e7Q3hwVa3En) was spectacularly flooded. ...

Video:

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/TootingBecCommon_20160623_AM.jpg) (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BHjD09W0oN8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 23 June, 2016, 01:41:43 pm
Quote from: TimO on 23 June, 2016, 09:22:15 am
... After that, there was some sort of accident on Queenstown Road, under one of the railway bridges, that I still can't work out. ...

This car was crunched up on Queenstown Road (https://goo.gl/maps/F8HdzZWo9jE2) early this morning, but was gone by the time I got there

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/small.php?size=400&file=QueenstownRoad_20160623_Early.jpg)

... and Latchmere Road was fairly flooded, under the bridge (https://goo.gl/maps/mCTitYfQYp92) at 5am.

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/small.php?size=400&file=LatchmereRoadBridgeFlooding20160623_5am.jpg)

It looks like Queenstown Road did suffer from some flooding, but there were a couple of cars stopped under the bridge (https://goo.gl/maps/L8f9Gt6nUVy), which weren't clearly incapacitated, but the police were directing vehicles around them.

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/small.php?size=400&file=QueenstownRoad_Bridge_20160623_1.png) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/QueenstownRoad_Bridge_20160623_1.png)   (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/small.php?size=400&file=QueenstownRoad_Bridge_20160623_2.png) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/QueenstownRoad_Bridge_20160623_2.png)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 23 June, 2016, 01:49:48 pm
Quote from: TimO on 23 June, 2016, 01:41:43 pm
... It looks like Queenstown Road did suffer from some flooding, but there were a couple of cars stopped under the bridge (https://goo.gl/maps/L8f9Gt6nUVy), which weren't clearly incapacitated, but the police were directing vehicles around them. ...

It appears that both those cars were there much earlier, and the water level was higher, so presumably they "died" in the flooding, and it had lowered by the time I came past.

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/small.php?size=400&file=QueenstownRoad_20160623_Bridge.jpg) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/QueenstownRoad_20160623_Bridge.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 23 June, 2016, 08:01:29 pm
Outpaced by a _baby_ rabbit this morning and the rabbit took off from a standing start.  Dear God, I must be getting old. :)

Stopped for a minute or so to watch a B52 taking off.

Reek of goats at Home farm, Netherton.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 23 June, 2016, 08:43:56 pm
If the rabbit outpaced the B52 you're alright.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 23 June, 2016, 11:18:24 pm
Probably the sunniest commute so far for me. It was also quite sticky so I took it easy (Cyclist excuse #41).
Coming home was a different matter; it was quite chilly although could have been easily remidied if I'd stopped to put on more clothing. I didn't of course.
I forgot to take in any underwear so I had to use my emergency pants. I need to remember to take in two pairs tomorrow.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 24 June, 2016, 08:16:35 am
Running late today due to trying to figure out the repercussions of last nights national stupidity (how effin much :o ) so was grateful for the tailwind.

Even better when I heard one of Trafford council's mini street-sweepers approaching from behind on Church Road, a big effort to get on the back of it, much to the chagrin of Warrington Road Club guy who couldn't quite make it. My word those things can shift, it's not very often I can do 30mph up a 2% slope  ;D

Is this guaranteed every day in our brave new world?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 24 June, 2016, 10:02:49 am
I think roadsweeping will become a thing of the past, while hills will get steeper.  2%? Why you couldn't even leave Europe with that.....could you?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 25 June, 2016, 01:47:04 am
Soaked on the way in. Thoughts such as "I may need the waterproof later" should really be "I'll put the waterproof on now otherwise it'll be too late"  :facepalm:. Some fast times on Strava and, it has to be admitted, bordering on reckless filtering. That's what riding angry does.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1z3-6AmdoeY *

To add insult to injury, my delivery route took me to Brexit central:- East Manchester.

I got soaked on the way home as well. It didn't seem to matter as much.

*From Groundhog Day. That's a film I can watch over and over again.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 26 June, 2016, 11:40:45 pm
My last commute for a week, I'm on holiday 'til next Sunday.
I took it easy on the way in to work, a severe case of ICn'tBA although I did enjoy it,
Coming home was rather Mancunian and I was glad of the improved mud-guards and wearing a waterproof always gives me permission to cruise.
I hope the weather improves otherwise we're not going to be doing much riding next week.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 27 June, 2016, 08:14:24 am
Nice tailwind this morning and something to chase up Kings Road meant it should have been a good commute, unfortunately it was marred by turning the corner in Flixton to find someone had levered up a manhole cover and wedged a no entry sign in with a ‘to polish scum’ placard underneath, the police were just getting out of their motor to deal with it.  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jaded on 27 June, 2016, 08:20:54 am
Maybe someone had polished the manhole cover?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MagnusOpus on 27 June, 2016, 10:02:12 am
Painless ride in today, the saddle sore I inflicted on myself last weekend has finally deflated and stopped giving me gyp
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 27 June, 2016, 07:48:48 pm
I had to take the notes from last week's course into work this morning. A week's worth of 'death by PowerPoint' in one pannier doesn't half alter the handling.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 28 June, 2016, 08:13:33 am
Not a lot to report this morning, all very quiet, I suspect a lot are nursing sore heads.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 28 June, 2016, 01:31:42 pm
Knackered, and a bit of a cold. But it was sunny and light tailwind.  Mudguards are off in prep for my holidays and amazingly, Euros were bought before that fukkin vote.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 28 June, 2016, 10:00:06 pm
And this evening I pulled up behind someone with a parrot in a cage cum rucksack thing on their back

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7365/27966386545_3816d9bde4_k.jpg
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 29 June, 2016, 08:14:24 am
Totally under dressed for the Mancunian weather last night meant I really had to get a shift on to keep warm, I do love it when I'm the quickest thing on the road to Flixton, though being overtaken by a cyclist does seem to cause some folk to want to keep their foot on the loud pedal until they realise they are about to drive into the car in front, you can feel the frustration when you just keep making progress up the outside  ;D

Steady cruise in this morning until the last half mile when a bit of SCR ensued.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 30 June, 2016, 08:31:35 am
Absolutely drowned last night, and the instant I got home someone switched the tap off and the sun came out  ::-)

Very quiet again this morning, I'm a bit puzzled why its so dead at the moment.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 30 June, 2016, 09:01:47 am
Quote from: Si S on 30 June, 2016, 08:31:35 am
Very quiet again this morning, I'm a bit puzzled why its so dead at the moment.

The "Remain" voters have emigrated.  It's lovely here in Burkina Faso.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 01 July, 2016, 08:29:42 am
Hung around at home for a bit this morning to avoid setting off in a deluge, it paid off as I got a break in the weather.

I was aware that they have coned off the bus and cycle lane outside the old Hyde's brewery so was not surprised that after I took my place in the traffic flow and was holding a steady 28mph less than two bike lengths away from the van in front the woman behind went for the overtake, so I left her hanging out there into the oncoming traffic until I judged that the look on the passengers face had reached abject terror then hit the brakes to make a gap for her, just to whizz straight back past less than 2 seconds later as she reached the back of the jam.  ::-)

Its all good fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 01 July, 2016, 09:08:39 am
You're too kind. I wouldn't have done that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 01 July, 2016, 09:27:24 am
I suspect she'd have pulled back in regardless and whilst I've been polishing my skillz lately bunny hopping the tape between the cones is always going to be bit much. Danny Macaskill I aint.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 04 July, 2016, 12:36:11 am
Just had a week off and it flew by.
I see that I'm the only one commuting today ...............
It was quite warm riding in this afternoon but I wished I'd taken leg-warmers for the return.
I've got a rest day tomorrow before I start on early shifts for 3 days.
After that, a combination of holiday and rest days means that I'll be off for a further five days  :thumbsup:.
Unless I HTFU a lot, it's likely that I'll use the car for the rest of the week.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 04 July, 2016, 12:20:43 pm
Scraaaawkkk. Scraaawkkk. Scraaawkkk.

I think I'll be getting the train home.

It's actually the mudguard catching the wheel. Which isn't the problem, the wheel completely flexes off centre under significant torque. Hmm. Weirdly the wheel isn't wobbly, it's tight, seems to have all spokes and expected coherency when I attempt to bend it by hand (and it's not the bike I fell off the other day). It's fine if I don't give it some welly, but it's hills on the way home and something vital might fall off (like me).

Grumble.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 04 July, 2016, 01:51:31 pm
Could it be the frame flexing instead of the wheel?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 04 July, 2016, 02:51:48 pm
Need to take a good look. It didn't use to do that. And it's quite pronounced, I give it some serious power and the tyre will hit the chainstay. I could see anything obviously cracked on the frame but there's a good layer of obfuscating dirt in that region. There's a danger that cleaning away all the dirt will reveal an absence of actual bike within. I had some similar weirdness some years back that turned out to be a snapped axle. I do grunt up a lot of hills on a heavily laden bicycle, I suppose.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 05 July, 2016, 10:04:00 am
Decent run in with rested legs and a nice tailwind  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 05 July, 2016, 06:58:18 pm
It was like Winter this am; cold and dark. After popping my head outside, I decided that leg-warmers were a good idea. I was right.
There were quite a few cycle commuters out and about  but I was more impressed by the number of joggers/runners. Most if not all of the cyclists that I saw had got up early to go somewhere; the runners were out to excercise before work. Good on them; some weren't "natural" atheletes but they were giving it a go  :thumbsup:.
The wind was pretty strong on the way home and I wasn't inclined to battle too hard.

Since it's an 06.00 start tomorrow and Thursday, I'll be using the car; having to leave home at 04.30 on the bike is a step too far.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 05 July, 2016, 07:17:22 pm
Quote from: ian on 04 July, 2016, 02:51:48 pm
Need to take a good look. It didn't use to do that. And it's quite pronounced, I give it some serious power and the tyre will hit the chainstay. I could see anything obviously cracked on the frame but there's a good layer of obfuscating dirt in that region. There's a danger that cleaning away all the dirt will reveal an absence of actual bike within. I had some similar weirdness some years back that turned out to be a snapped axle. I do grunt up a lot of hills on a heavily laden bicycle, I suppose.

Achy breaky axle. It must be the sheer power I put out, I'm like Chris Froome has overdosed on energy bars. Or possibly I fly up hills like a dodo with a hangover and a serious lack of motivation. I should probably load the bike with less beer but where's the fun in that?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 06 July, 2016, 08:29:26 am
A BMW driver abandoned an overtake on seeing approaching traffic and then waited behind me as I signaled to turn right then executed the turn.

That's right, a BMW driver!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 06 July, 2016, 08:29:55 am
Another steady cruise in. The good news is that tweaking the nose up a tad on my saddle seems to have resolved an issue, I'm sure it's slipping nose down.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 06 July, 2016, 11:01:50 am
About a week ago, they painted a new "right turn" block of blue  at Chelsea Bridge (https://goo.gl/maps/fwrPUiiDsVP2).

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/small.php?size=400&file=20160705_ChelseaBridgeRightTurn.jpg) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/20160705_ChelseaBridgeRightTurn.jpg)

I noticed yesterday that they've put up some fairly well hidden signage indicating that it is intended to be used in the way that I thought.

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/small.php?size=400&file=20160706_ChelseaBridgeRightTurnSign.jpg) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/20160706_ChelseaBridgeRightTurnSignFull.jpg)

I've yet to see anyone actually use it, and I'd be surprised if anyone did.  Whilst it's not a particularly nice right turn, as long as you pull out early, it's not the worst right turn in the world, and they'll easily be a dozen other cyclists doing the same thing, on most mornings.  Swapping the "normal" right turn for a somewhat odd manoeuvre, which I can't say I've ever seen detailed in any sensible document on cycling infrastructure, seems unlikely to garner much support, especially since it guarantees that you have to stop, probably twice, for the lights.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 06 July, 2016, 11:26:12 am
Quote from: TimO on 06 July, 2016, 11:01:50 am
...I can't say I've ever seen detailed in any sensible document on cycling infrastructure ...

I did find a reference to it, in Sustrans Design Manual Chapter 7, Junctions and crossings: cycle friendly design (draft), February 2015 (http://www.sustrans.org.uk/sites/default/files/images/files/Route-Design-Resources/Junctions_and_Crossings_06_02_15.pdf), although how sensible Sustrans infrastructure designs (https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=74343.msg1530710#msg1530710) are, is a matter of some argument.

Quote
5.48

Based on a standard feature at junctions in Denmark and the Netherlands ...

5.49
To date there is a single example of this design in the UK, which was fully implemented in late 2014 in Southampton. In addition to this on road trial, TRL is undertaking research for TfL on this.

I still think it's a poor design, and basically smacks of not wanting to make an actual useful change to the junction.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jakob W on 06 July, 2016, 12:18:31 pm
Looks like a 'Copenhagen Turn'; not really sure there is any great benefit to it. I think David Hembrow has a bit about the disadvantages; IIRC a separate light phase for cyclists is his preferred safest option.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 06 July, 2016, 12:31:28 pm
Those turns proliferate along the CSs and are very infrequently used. However, they do indicate a safe route for a novice just starting and as such can provide confidence to make a safe turn, even just knowing they are there can add to confidence - far better than the old way which was (and still is far too frequently) to remove provision just where it is needed at the most threatening places coz it is too difficult to do anything else.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jakob W on 06 July, 2016, 12:53:36 pm
It's been years since I was on Chelsea Bridge, but aren't you still at risk of being left-hooked as you head onto the blue bit  in TimO's photo below? I'm all about providing infrastructure for less confident cyclists; but given that the lanes shown there are all just paint on the road rather than properly segregated I suppose I'm sceptical about how much safer this turn will make people feel.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 06 July, 2016, 05:52:27 pm
Quote from: Jakob W on 06 July, 2016, 12:53:36 pm
... aren't you still at risk of being left-hooked as you head onto the blue bit  ...

There's a relatively large ASL, with a mandatory cycle path feeding into it.  The large number of cyclists also tends to make most car drivers more attentive, which is not to say that you don't need to be careful, especially if the lights change to green as you're approaching the junction.  I don't think it's significantly different from any other left turn on a busy road.

It could probably do with some proper segregated routes, but like many bridges in London, that would require road space being removed for motor vehicles, since there's no practical way to widen the road, aside from replacing the entire bridge.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 06 July, 2016, 06:32:32 pm
This morning I found that having tyres with sufficient air in them, plus cleats with two bolts each, makes for a much easier commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SoreTween on 06 July, 2016, 09:43:36 pm
Is there a correlation between the lack of motons on the road tonight and the cretinball on the idiots lantern?

Just asking.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 06 July, 2016, 10:16:03 pm
Multimodal commute today:
Bendy bike from home to station.
Not too badly delayed Southern train to Vic.
Swift walk to Ebury Place
Boris Bike to Portland Place.
Reverse above later in the day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 07 July, 2016, 08:35:09 am
A bit of SCR today.

Pulling off the lights outside Lidl in Irlam a chap on a roadified MTB came flying past and dropped into the slipstream of one of the tipper trucks, I couldn't close the gap so was left hanging 30 metres or so back, at the A57 junction the truck eased off so he jumped onto the cycle path while the tipper took the junction then he tried to jump back into the slipstream but had lost too much momentum so I cruised past.

He obviously didn't like this and while I went all the way round the roundabout at Irlam locks he crossed into the oncoming traffic lane and took it the wrong way round  :o before opening a decent gap on the rough access road. The gap steadily closed up Irlam road and through the estate before he went for a do-or-die right turn while I waited for a very angry Audi driver to pass. I crested the railway bridge to see him take the turn to Urmston and go into full attack mode for the dip.

Up the dip I could see him begin to struggle and made the catch on the straight where he hung onto my wheel, the lights at Urmston went green and I launched a sprint and knew I'd dropped him by the "Bastard" from behind.  ;D

Good start to the day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 07 July, 2016, 07:50:35 pm
The slug balancers were out in force this afternoon* and molesworth 2 sa whooooshhh eeeewoooo akkka akkkka akkka kerbloom!

In other, quieter, news a wren whizzed across my path on my homeward trip. Which was nice.  This morning there was a red hot air balloon floating very slowy somewhere over Fairford airfield.


*And this evening, practicing displays for RIAT. I may pootle down to the peri. track late tomorrow afternoon for a closer dekko.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 08 July, 2016, 08:12:04 am
A steady pootle in this morning until the end when I got the chance to chase a BOC lorry through Moss Side. By heck it's black over Bill's mother's.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 08 July, 2016, 11:04:19 am
There seemed to be a limitless supply of airborne protein on the ride home last night. At least I didn't starve :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 11 July, 2016, 08:17:29 am
Wet, sore, slow and a bit nervous this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 11 July, 2016, 09:20:40 am
First morning back on the bike after a weeks illness and a weeks recuperation by bus.

A bit slow in places showing up two weeks off the bike, but a glorious ride in with the traffic all behaving.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: trekker12 on 11 July, 2016, 12:36:39 pm
After Thursdays disaster (see motorised moron thread) I decided I needed a change of scenery.

I got up early and left ten minutes earlier than usual intending to go as traffic free as possible. Mrs Trekker rode with me part way until she had to turn off to her work and I then used the shared cycle path along which I saw hardly anyone and none of that awful stopping in traffic at lights and junctions etc.

After that I whizzed through the next town and out into the country along the back lanes which run parallel to the A12.

Birds singing, sun shining and hardly a car to be seen. After 19.5 miles (the direct traffic filled route is 14.5) I arrived at work refreshed and feeling like I'd completed a bike ride and not a commute.

Considering the use of the cycle path my average speed was only 0.5mph lower than usual

I'm doing that more often!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 12 July, 2016, 08:00:47 am
The scab on my knee is not cracking with every stroke now so a bit quicker, quite a few others about too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 12 July, 2016, 09:46:46 am
Last night's commute home was in about the heaviest rain I've ever cycled in  :hand:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 13 July, 2016, 08:24:34 am
Lazy, very lazy today and I intend to be that way for the rest of the week
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SoreTween on 13 July, 2016, 03:05:27 pm
Visitation >:( On the canal towpath again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Hattyfatner on 13 July, 2016, 08:13:53 pm
7.5 miles home from work - phone keeps dropping the gps signal probably will go back to old fashioned computer, 1 or 2 lying around.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 14 July, 2016, 08:09:14 am
A very enjoyable sunny cruise this morning slightly marred by my mudguard bracket breaking 1 mile from work, bodged with zip ties for the time being.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 14 July, 2016, 04:02:11 pm
Surprised at how much some cycle commuters wear...  Today ~18C & sunny, I was in shorts & sh-s jersey, and overtook a chap doing the same journey (~9mls), in a suit, full winter gloves, and a yellow gilet. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MagnusOpus on 14 July, 2016, 04:26:18 pm
After having three days off work sweating, shivering, coughing and aching in bed it was time to go back to work....

Was expecting to hate every second, but was actually an enjoyable run, even seemed to help with the achies
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 14 July, 2016, 05:59:42 pm
Quote from: andyoxon on 14 July, 2016, 04:02:11 pm
Surprised at how much some cycle commuters wear...  Today ~18C & sunny, I was in shorts & sh-s jersey, and overtook a chap doing the same journey (~9mls), in a suit, full winter gloves, and a yellow gilet.

I see that a lot, including one with a scarf around their mouth, I was pondering unzipping my SS top a bit more as I was boiling. I put it down to having a broken internal thermostat from cycling through the winter.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 14 July, 2016, 06:35:12 pm
That nothing I see the same cyclist going past me with 4 lights on front and back, camera on bmx helmet and back of bike plus he is covered head to toe in clothes so you can not see a single bit of exposed skin!! Could be 40 degrees or -10
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 14 July, 2016, 07:33:00 pm
Quote from: davelodwig on 14 July, 2016, 05:59:42 pm
... including one with a scarf around their mouth....
Hay fever sufferer perhaps?

_Lots_ of traffic eastbound on the Saltway this morning proper queues of it.  At that time it's normally just me and the odd pheasant, partridge or rabbit.  Very odd.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 14 July, 2016, 09:02:18 pm
Quote from: andyoxon on 14 July, 2016, 04:02:11 pm
Surprised at how much some cycle commuters wear...  Today ~18C & sunny, I was in shorts & sh-s jersey, and overtook a chap doing the same journey (~9mls), in a suit, full winter gloves, and a yellow gilet.

I'm surprised at how much some cyclists wear full stop.  Unless it's actually cold enough to snow or you're borderline hypothermic from a stop, a waterproof jacket is almost always too warm, for example.

But I'll make allowances for casual (which paradoxically includes suits in this context) clothes - they're not generally chosen for the cycling bit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 14 July, 2016, 09:02:48 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 14 July, 2016, 07:33:00 pm
Quote from: davelodwig on 14 July, 2016, 05:59:42 pm
... including one with a scarf around their mouth....
Hay fever sufferer perhaps?

Or trying to keep those little black flies out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 14 July, 2016, 11:54:21 pm
I appear to be one of those commuters who wears a lot of clothes  ;).
First commute in a while this morning. Wet roads but blue skies and it was cold enough to make me wish I'd worn gloves to compliment the windproof jacket, long sleeve jersey and mesh base-layer. Plus the usual lycra shorts with un-padded MTB shorts over the top.
Coming home it was much warmer and I wished I had a short sleeve jersey. The windproof was in the bag  :thumbsup: and I rolled the sleeves of the jersey up.

Despite the break, I seemed to go quite well.
Day off tomorrow but I'm working Saturday and Sunday and I'm expecting to ride in.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 15 July, 2016, 08:10:35 am
Quote from: davelodwig on 14 July, 2016, 05:59:42 pm
from cycling through the winter.

I do think this makes a difference, I was surprised leaving last night at how most cyclists wandering round the MRI were in longs, jackets etc, I nearly dug the windproof out the bag but shorts and s/s were fine, that said though I do seem to be faster when 'running hot'.

Forgot my cap this morning since it's still on the line, very steady pootle in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 17 July, 2016, 09:06:44 pm
Only me again today ? Oh the joys of Sunday shifts...................
It was very, very gloomy this morning and I began to think I'd get soaked. Thankfully that didn't happen but I was glad of the windproof layer and the leg-warmers. Back to the clothing issue again.
Due to too much faffing, I set off rather later than was ideal so I had to get a bit of a move on. I don't feel great when I have to do this, I seem to be more of an afternoon cyclist.
Still, I got there in plenty of time and I allowed myself an easy cruise home in the sun. SS top and shorts in case you were wondering.
I had considered taking a long way home but decided against it. In the end it was a good decision since I'm knackered now and I'm about to go to bed.
An 05.00 departure awaits tomorrow ...............

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 18 July, 2016, 08:12:20 am
Empty legs necessitating a very steady plod, wet mitts due to forgetting to extract them from the washing machine yesterday and couldn't find the spares :facepalm: then ran through a big patch of glass right outside the office so will have to check for holes at lunchtime.

I love Mondays  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 18 July, 2016, 02:04:28 pm
Back on the Stache this morning. Quite uneventful with the exception of an incident when negotiating a gap in a raised bank. [pedaling through and the right pedal, at the bottom of its travel, struck something which caused enough of a deceleration that my left knee impacted the shifters on the bars.


'Kinell but that smarts :o

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 July, 2016, 02:19:34 pm
Kinda on the commute Friday and today.  Dahon Speed 7 folder this time.  After work Friday, I got a train to Pevensey and rode the lovely lanes to Normans Bay to meet the beautiful Butterfly for a weekend of camping and sunburn :/

Today, I'm just using it for the short stretches between stations.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 18 July, 2016, 02:43:48 pm
A slow trundle in this morning, after a tougher ride on Sunday than was strictly necessary.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 18 July, 2016, 08:32:16 pm
Still cold enough for legwarmers and LS top over the SS top for me this am.
Less faffage meant that I could cruise in and still arrive in plenty of time.
Coming home was much warmer and the humidity made it fairly uncomfortable. Heaven knows what it'll be like tomorrow and yes, I'm determined to ride in despite starting 30 minutes earlier. Up at 04.00, what could possibly go wrong ?
Two less than ideal traffic incidents today: a close pass on the way in and some aggressive tail-gating as I was going over the A34 roundabout.
Both cars had bike carriers on their roofs  :facepalm:.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 18 July, 2016, 09:28:41 pm
Quote from: clarion on 18 July, 2016, 02:19:34 pm
Kinda on the commute Friday and today.  Dahon Speed 7 folder this time.  After work Friday, I got a train to Pevensey and rode the lovely lanes to Normans Bay to meet the beautiful Butterfly for a weekend of camping and sunburn :/

Today, I'm just using it for the short stretches between stations.
Aww I'd have come said hi had I known you were about.

A few weeks ago I finally used the downmat I bought off you two last year and had a cracking sleep

As for me I cycled both ways today so I'm a bit weary of leg but had a fantastic brace of rides in the sunshine.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 19 July, 2016, 04:37:34 am
Quote from: Pingu on 12 July, 2016, 09:46:46 am
Last night's commute home was in about the heaviest rain I've ever cycled in  :hand:

This is similar for me. Summer commutes through the heaviest rains. For some reason I thought the weather would be more "normal"  up your neck of the woods.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 19 July, 2016, 08:02:02 am
Glorious morning and my legs are coming back  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 19 July, 2016, 11:11:13 am
I saw this cargo bike yesterday evening, passing the National History Museum as I left work around 8pm.

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/small.php?size=300&file=CargoBike_20160718_CropAdj2.jpg) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/CargoBike_20160718_CropAdj2.jpg)   (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/small.php?size=300&file=CargoBike_20160718_CropAdj1.jpg) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/CargoBike_20160718_CropAdj1.jpg)

I think it's a Kemper Filibus (http://www.kemper-velo.de/bicycles/cargo-bikes/filibus/?L=2)

With the warmer weather, it's been several days since I saw anyone wearing a woolly hat or scarf.  Today is forecast to be the warmest day of the year, so far, and that point will be reached just as it's time to go home! :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 July, 2016, 12:16:37 pm
Last night, thanks to Satan opening a portal at Forest Hill to welcome Southern home to his realm, I got to ride from Cannon St to Balham.  It was kinda nice. :)

Train-biking again today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MagnusOpus on 19 July, 2016, 01:16:18 pm
Was bloody hot and sticky, even at 8am....I don't cope well with the heat, and recovering from flu, and feeling my first proper ride out since....so rolled in rather gently

going home is going to be a bit sweaty
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 19 July, 2016, 03:52:51 pm
Gloriously hot. Though I find anything below 30 degrees cold. For bonus points, I fear I may be inclined to taking the Bactrian Leg Squeaker route home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 19 July, 2016, 06:03:28 pm
Chilly enough for arm-warmers this am. No need for them in the pm.
Despite it being even earlier than audax o'clock, there were still a few joggers out and about.
I rode in along the "new" route via Didsbury and Cheadle but I decided to come home the "old" way- through Newall Green and down Styal Road to Sharston and Northenden where I nearly got taken out by a taxi. My advice to the driver may not have been the most polite.

I managed to get into the top 5 on a Strava segment along the banks of the Mersey (Lancashire side obv). I would have been even faster if I hadn't had to ease off to move a rubbing mud-guard. I'll try again on the next sunny day. I'm not sure that the burst of speed was adrenaline fuelled since I'd been going quite well before the "incident".

Late shift tomorrow so I'll definitely be riding and I'll be getting home around midnight. It gets a little bitty for the next few days: off Thursday, work Friday, off Saturday/Sunday, work Monday, off Tuesday/Wednesday. I don't think I'll get much leisure cycling done.



Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 19 July, 2016, 06:36:37 pm
Tuesday school shuffled timings because of sports morning and the Year 6 water battle (and a dull meeting about a server) so I had a later start & finish than usual.

Took advantage of it to nip to another site to collect a belonging left behind last week, and went the long way, which turned my couple of miles to work into about 10.  Nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pdm on 19 July, 2016, 09:52:01 pm
Warmish today. 22C going in, 32C coming home, lowest temp over Peaks was 30C. 2 pints of water required for trip home...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 20 July, 2016, 08:08:12 am
If these temperatures continue I'm going to have to start carrying a bidon, pretty dehydrated when I got home last night and still feeling not quite right this morning.

Got bitten by a nastyflyingthingywotsit down by the canal on the way in so my leg is heating and swelling up nicely, on the plus side just stepped through the door when the hail came hammering down.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 20 July, 2016, 08:38:08 am
If you went cycling in a fan assisted oven, I think that'd feel like my journey home last night.
I've been carrying a bidon of water for the last two days - unheard of, for me.
Twice last night I poured its contents onto the cap I was wearing - to not very much avail.
I've also been leaving the house just after six, in order to get to work while most of the road is still in shade.
Its the journey home that I'm not looking forward to.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 20 July, 2016, 08:49:16 am
Yes, last night was a long cycle into god's very own hair drier, though curiously I enjoyed it and it wasn't nearly as hard as it should have been. Partly the fact that I was on the skinny bike (fat bike is still broke, strangely difficult to get an axle, because no, I don't want a wheel or a sealed hub, just the bit it spins around, dear local bike shops) and partly that I'd eaten a lot of beans for lunch. And I suppose partly that I'd escaped a brand meeting unscathed. You can't catch me!

Then I got home two hours later and sweated. I mean an entire ocean came out of me. Fish. Mermaids. Captain Nemo. You name it. I have been replacing it ever since.

Sadly, on the train today because I need to arrive at a meeting in Stevenage not looking like I travel by sauna.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 20 July, 2016, 08:57:10 am
I am a Cycling God.

(in reality there was the mother a tailwind this morning. And humid too. I fear thunder)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Morrisette on 20 July, 2016, 09:45:24 am
It was HOT last night. I did not like the strong southerly wind that strangely, the Met Office don't seem to know about.

I actually drank all my water, which never happens. And was still thirsty later. Where does it go?!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 20 July, 2016, 09:50:59 am
Non-availability of axles is nothing new, I had the same promble when my then-mighty thews snapped the rear axle of the Big Red Roockhooper circa 1988.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lady Cavendish on 20 July, 2016, 09:57:31 am
Absolutely LOVING riding in this heat. I would take this all day every day.

Tonight, I was on my nice bike, it's pretty new and I love it. A guy came up to me, said it had taken a while to catch me and where was I headed. We were going to the same place- said he was doing about 20 miles to get there and did I want a tow. There was a headwind, and I'm lazy, so yes. About 22mph ok he says? Yeah.... happy to sit there and get a lift. It was a lovely ride, only problem was he had TOTALLY see through shorts on, so I had a full crack view for an hour.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 20 July, 2016, 10:21:27 am
Quote from: Mr Larrington on 20 July, 2016, 09:50:59 am
Non-availability of axles is nothing new, I had the same promble when my then-mighty thews snapped the rear axle of the Big Red Roockhooper circa 1988.

I have tried eight shops. I take the hint that I should get one online but I was too lazy to measure the one I've broken and thought I'd get away with asking someone knowledgable. I bodged a tape measure through the spokes to avoid getting oily and it says 170-something English millimetres.

That said, my commute seemed a lot faster on my skinny hybrid than my fat commutified BSO. I was a rocket. I even overtook someone going up Crystal Palace hill. That only usually happens if some calamity has resulted in them going backwards down the hill.

Roads were terrible, even at 11am. I guess everyone thought 'hot day, let's go sit in traffic and breath some fumes'. And not only that, a large number of them were so impressed by the weather that they felt the need to phone a friend as they stop-started through the badlands of South London just to tell them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 20 July, 2016, 09:21:19 pm
I have 3 Top Peak pocket rocket pumps living permanently between the 4 courier bags I use.
Tonight I punctured.
Guess which bag I had?
Yup. The pumpless one.
Beaucoup merde!
Smiley, charming lady whom I encounter on a regular basis, on a nodding/smiling/saying hello basis rode past.
'Do you have a pump I could borrow, please?' I asked.
'I do but I'm not sure that it........' she answered.
'It's ok. I have a Brompton too. It won't'. Idiot. :facepalm:

Man with youngster on tagalong saved the day.
His Leyzene something-or-other saved me a ~£40.00+ cab fare (which my PA had arranged, and I  cancelled).
Youngster earned himself a £10.00 ice cream voucher, very reluctantly accepted by dad, for being patient and for asking key questions like 'Why doesn't this man have his own pump?'
This kid is the future.
Be pleased.
Serves me right for leaving work early this evening.
Any benefit of doing so went out the window thanks to puncture.

Pocket Rocket No.4 has been ordered from Evans for bag No. 4.
That ought to do it.





Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 20 July, 2016, 09:29:08 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 20 July, 2016, 09:21:19 pm
Smiley, charming lady whom I encounter on a regular basis, on a nodding/smiling/saying hello basis rode past.
'Do you have a pump I could borrow, please?' I asked.
'I do but I'm not sure that it........' she answered.
'It's ok. I have a Brompton too. It won't'. Idiot. :facepalm:

It will if you unscrew the end and reverse the thingy (wish I'd known this before stocking up on Brompton-size Schrader tubes).  In as much as the Brompton pump will do the job at all, that is - it runs on the sort of optimism that's best backed up with a couple of cans of CO2.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 20 July, 2016, 09:37:25 pm
Quote from: Kim on 20 July, 2016, 09:29:08 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 20 July, 2016, 09:21:19 pm
Smiley, charming lady whom I encounter on a regular basis, on a nodding/smiling/saying hello basis rode past.
'Do you have a pump I could borrow, please?' I asked.
'I do but I'm not sure that it........' she answered.
'It's ok. I have a Brompton too. It won't'. Idiot. :facepalm:

It will if you unscrew the end and reverse the thingy (wish I'd known this before stocking up on Brompton-size Schrader tubes).  In as much as the Brompton pump will do the job at all, that is - it runs on the sort of optimism that's best backed up with a couple of cans of CO2.
Merci!
Knowledge of that could've got me home 20 minutes earlier.
I'm sure Smiley lady would've obliged.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 20 July, 2016, 09:43:25 pm
Yesterday's "hair drier" ride was not repeated today, even though the temperature was at most only a couple of degrees cooler.  Leaving later meant that I was mostly in the shade, and that made it far cooler than the almost 100% toasting in the sun, of the previous day.

Like Si S, I was feeling pretty crummy yesterday, not carrying any sort of water with me, and downed two pints in fairly quick succession once I got home.  Today I smartly chilled a bottle, ready to take with me, and then promptly remembered it was still at home, when I was about halfway to work!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 20 July, 2016, 09:46:21 pm
Quote from: TimO on 20 July, 2016, 09:43:25 pm
Yesterday's "hair drier" ride was not repeated today, even though the temperature was at most only a couple of degrees cooler.  Leaving later meant that I was mostly in the shade, and that made it far cooler than the almost 100% toasting in the sun, of the previous day.

Like Si S, I was feeling pretty crummy yesterday, not carrying any sort of water with me, and downed two pints in fairly quick succession once I got home.  Today I smartly chilled a bottle, ready to take with me, and then promptly remembered it was still at home, when I was about halfway to work!
Mine is currently in the fridge.
I'm confident of remembering to pop it into the bottle cage tomorrow morning.

We'll see.....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 20 July, 2016, 10:50:40 pm
I'm either going well or there was a tail-wind in both directions today.
One thing that was very obvious is that i go better in the afternoon/evening than I do in the mornings.
I'd previously come to the conclusion that I can do 18mph along a flat road on the Dirty Disco at the sort of effort that I could keep up for hours. On the morning commutes over the past few weeks, 15mph wasn't easy. This pm, I was back to 18mph again (both ways too).
It was a nice temperature going in although I started sweating whenever I had to stop. I thought I was going to get soaked on the way home but, thankfully, only a few drops of rain fell.

In the next few weeks, I'm going to give the Rohloff bike another try. If it is as joyless to ride as I remember, I'll be getting rid.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 21 July, 2016, 08:12:48 am
Another lovely morning, still a bit fatigued though, took a lot to hold the gap to a guy on a ribble with cosmic carbones on through Cadishead although I did manage to close right up on the rise past the railway station.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 July, 2016, 04:36:44 pm
I am more commuting with a bicycle than by bicycle at the moment.  But it still feels better than not. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 22 July, 2016, 08:03:20 am
On yesterdays ride home, I was assaulted by a tree.

There is a low hanging branch, about the thickness of my leg, across a trail I use when partaking in comedy off roading, low enough to occasionaly skim the top of my helmet as I pass below. Yesterday afternoon, as I ducked below the preceding light foliage, some bastard workmen fired up a compressor off to my left and close by. This caused me to be distracted which caused me to sit up slightly- 4 inches up to be precise. Cue BANG! stars, snapping together of teef, whiplash, confusion and a stopping of forward motion while I tried to remember what I was up to.

Helmet has a tidy dent in it at the front just above the peak and the ibuprofen is working on the neck pain. Bike is completely uninterested in what happened.

 ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 22 July, 2016, 08:17:52 am
A very steady cruise for last one until the end of next week as I have a few days in Glentrool with the MTB.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 22 July, 2016, 09:39:49 am
Leaving the laptop at work last night shaved 3 minutes off the commute in each direction. that's >10%.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulR on 22 July, 2016, 01:11:03 pm
Slow puncture on the ride in this morning - I suppose I should have avoided the canal path.

I pulled in to the side of the road but my team car was nowhere to be seen, so I had to nick a rear wheel off the first fixed rider to come past.  He seemed a bit nonplussed but I knew I couldn't afford to lose any more vital seconds.


Pumped the tyre up four times on the way in, planning to do the repair at the end of the day. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SoreTween on 26 July, 2016, 01:35:18 pm
Half way to work I realised I'd left my magic hat in my room. Felt curiously naked from then on.  Towpath route back tonight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 July, 2016, 01:53:43 pm
Ouch, fuzzy!  Hope it knocked some sense into you ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 26 July, 2016, 02:15:57 pm
Visitation on ride in this morning, so at lunch time I pootled into the town centre to the LBS to pick up some spare tubes.
One to replace the one I'd used in the seat-pack, and a couple just to have in my desk drawer.

And they let me borrow their track pump to top up the pressure because I'd got bored with the mini-pump after my arms had started aching.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 26 July, 2016, 05:14:05 pm
Quote from: clarion on 26 July, 2016, 01:53:43 pm
Ouch, fuzzy!  Hope it knocked some sense into you ;)

 >:(

 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 26 July, 2016, 09:42:22 pm
One of the nice things about summer and cycling home is that I can just wander. I call it randomeering. I pick a road that I've never been down before and off I go on my suburban safari. I'm practically a connoisseur of the pebble-dashing and stone-cladding to be found in South London more exotic locales.

This also explains why I visited Colliers Wood three times this evening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 29 July, 2016, 08:18:16 am
Only one this week, lazy and slow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 29 July, 2016, 12:45:07 pm
Quote from: ian on 26 July, 2016, 09:42:22 pm
One of the nice things about summer and cycling home is that I can just wander. I call it randomeering. I pick a road that I've never been down before and off I go on my suburban safari. I'm practically a connoisseur of the pebble-dashing and stone-cladding to be found in South London more exotic locales.
Oh yes, randomeering or silly bike adventuring or chaotic pootling or whatever you call it is a great way of discovering places.

[url]This also explains why I visited Colliers Wood three times this evening.
[/quote]
That sounds like an excuse you'd use to your wife.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 29 July, 2016, 07:19:53 pm
I have an appointment on Tuesday to see the dental hygienist.
The antics on this evening's commute came close to changing that appointment, to see the dentist instead. For reconstructive work.

I was giving it beans along Westferry Road, a road I've stopped using, preferring to use the riverside path. But they're carrying out work on that at the moment, as a result the path is closed.
The car in front was indicating left, and started to turn off, so I upped the beans.
The departing car (I was not far from his rear bumper) revealed a sink hole in the road. Maybe around 1/3 of the depth of a wheel, and not all that long - somewhere between the dimeter of one wheel, and the diameter of two.

The key thing here is that the sink hole had the same profile as the ski-jump in Grenoble where the winter olympics were held in 1968 or thereabouts.
I know this because when I entered the sink hole I felt some unusual g-force on my neck, this gave me enough time to say 'fck, fck, fck, fck' through gritted (and precious) teeth, before leaving the exit ramp with both wheels in the air.
Those of you who know me, will attest that I am really not BMX material, so what followed next surprised even me.

I landed on the front wheel which, because by now, what passes for my brane, had started to process this as an 'inaction could result in Very Bad Things Happening' and I was applying the brakes - so the front wheel locked.
Suddenly, I was seeing too much tarmac. And not enough sky.
And I could feel the bike's mass making it's way up my back, in a way which wasn't good.
My branes were saying 'Let go of the brake! Let go of the brake!'.
This translated into me managing to unclip first one, then the other foot, and land crab-like either side of the bike, after which the rear wheel crashed down to terra firma.

Luckily. Very luckily, there was no motor traffic immediately behind me.
But the cyclist who was ( I spoke with him in the lift at the foot tunnel) thought that something had got caught in my front wheel when he witnessed my spectacular, albeit ungraceful antics.

I've heard that it is bandied about in pilot's circles that any landing you walk away from can be considered to be a successful one.
Tonight's unscheduled flying lesson falls into that category.

And......... relax.

ETA - it should be noted that all of the above happened in a heatbeat. How our brains manage to process so much stuff going on in such a brief period of time, never ceases to amaze me.
ETFA - I'd love to see http://www.bostondynamics.com (http://www.bostondynamics.com) take on that sort of scenario.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 29 July, 2016, 07:28:53 pm
And the bike?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 29 July, 2016, 07:50:30 pm
Quote from: Mr Larrington on 29 July, 2016, 07:28:53 pm
And the bike?
Thank you for asking.
I'm not exactly heavy, but remain surprised that the Velocity-V rims remain true after their airborne adventure.
It's not like they're intended for that sort of caper.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 31 July, 2016, 10:52:53 am
Blimey Jurek. It goes without saying that I'd have shit mesel'.

I have a new commute that is 12 miles long. I'm not fit enough for that yet, particularly as I've just spent the last 5 weeks with a broken arm, but when the arm finishes mending I'm going to put the Brompton on a train to cut out the Tube part of the commute.

I live in West Croydon but can also get to East for the quick trains. I work near the British Museum. I have a lot of Options including Victoria and London Bridge (I thought Victoria was closer but there's not a lot a lot in it, and the roads around Victoria are so shit LB might be a better bet, the trains are quicker but more packed...)

What would you do in terms of routes? I'm out of practice for central London, it's been about few years and there's shiny new infrastructure in some places now I'm sure...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 31 July, 2016, 12:27:42 pm
Hmmmm....
Of the two termini, LBG is definitely preferable to VIC. While Southern Fail's re-jigged timetable hasn't affected the line through Forest Hill, I don't think that's the case with the Gatwick line from VIC.
And, of course, with LBG you have the delightful 5-car Ginger Line to avail yourself of :thumbsup:.

I rarely go through Central London by bike these days, but you are right - there is much fresh and improved infrastructure to be had. I've used the (physically separate from traffic) one which goes over Blackfriars Bridge to get to and from St Pancras on a Saturday and it was a delight, in both directions. My guess is that during the week, in this sort of weather it'll be *ahem* busy, and perhaps not as nice as when I had the entire lane pretty much to myself, but hey - that's commuting.

I believe Upper & Lower Thames Street has been similarly treated withe segregated lane - but I've not used it. To get to that you'd have to cross London Bridge, and I understand that at the moment it is a bit of bomb-site thanks to roadworks. (Andrij may be able to elaborate on that)

I guess from LBG you could go along the riverside path (if that's not too slow - I suspect it might be, as well as full  of peds) or alternatively Southwark Street, cross the river at Blackfriars, left into Fleet Street, R into Fetter Lane (taking the left fork) , over the pavement and left into Holborn, then High Holborn then R fork into New Oxford Street, and a naughty right into Museum Street. Or something.

I take it you are no longer at LB of C - that being the case - congratulations on the new job!

Wishing your arm speedy recovery.
JB
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 31 July, 2016, 12:42:33 pm
The new, segregated, route between Westminster Palace and Tower of London is finished, and rather nice.

Coming from London Bridge onto the segregated route there's a slight complication - Arthur Street is closed due to building works, and one can't turn right onto Monument Street -> Fish Street Hill.  Instead, carry on north, turn left onto Cannon Street, then left down Laurence Pourtney Lane then onto Upper Thames.


As an aside, I use the new facilities on most of my trips to Mayfair.  Rather than the direct route which would end up with me going down Oxford Street I'll catch CS3 which transitions nicely (beware tourists near the Tower) into the new facility.  From Westminster I make my way into Hyde Park then turn right into Mayfair.  It's a longer route, but much more pleasant.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 31 July, 2016, 01:49:51 pm
It's been a very long time since I was in those parts, but have Bloody Stupid Johnson and his Elves done anything about the horror that was the north end of Blackfriars Bridge?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 31 July, 2016, 01:56:21 pm
Quote from: Mr Larrington on 31 July, 2016, 01:49:51 pm
It's been a very long time since I was in those parts, but have Bloody Stupid Johnson and his Elves done anything about the horror that was the north end of Blackfriars Bridge?
If you've not been there awhile, you won't believe the difference.
2-way bike lane physically segregated from motor traffic. Dedicated traffic signals for bikes and motor traffic.
I can't remember (accurately - only been there once since the changes) but I don't think northbound motor traffic can do a left onto the Embankment any more.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 31 July, 2016, 05:01:01 pm
Useful info, thanks. Just need to figure out best place to turn off for Bloomsbury. I've peered over Waterloo bridge at the Embankment cycle path when walking over the bridge and it does look bloody brilliant; if it's like that all the way along I'd be delighted. Bear in mind most of my cycling this year has been going between all my Croydon sites, sharing Croydon roads with Croydon drivers *sits in corner, rocking*

Thanks Jurek. Yes I have indeed departed the House of Fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 31 July, 2016, 05:10:58 pm
Quote from: Notsototalnewbie on 31 July, 2016, 05:01:01 pm
Useful info, thanks. Just need to figure out best place to turn off for Bloomsbury. I've peered over Waterloo bridge at the Embankment cycle path when walking over the bridge and it does look bloody brilliant; if it's like that all the way along I'd be delighted. Bear in mind most of my cycling this year has been going between all my Croydon sites, sharing Croydon roads with Croydon drivers *sits in corner, rocking*

Thanks Jurek. Yes I have indeed departed the House of Fun.

I can picture that.....
Pleased to hear that you're out of it.

ETA
Red Lion Street off High Holborn is a good call for traffic-lite to Bloomsbury.
It'd be my route of choice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 02 August, 2016, 11:56:27 am
Zooming from Embankment Gardens to Bermondsey the other day via the new segregated route (goes all the way along Lower Thames St, past London bridge to Tower Bridge and on to Canary Wharf and, for the truly adventurous, Barking) was splendid (and fast). The downside was that I had to wait thirty minutes for my wife to turn up in her taxi (for the same journey).

Blackfriars is a big improvement. If I have to gripe about anything, it does get a bit busy during peak periods and a minority of cyclists have to do the speedy overtake at every opportunity even when it's very busy. There's also a lot of the racing to the next lights, the activity so beloved of car drivers. I dunno why people can't just go with the flow and take an extra minute to get to the other end. Really, it's Elephant & Castle, no one should be in a hurry to get there.

Croydonia, yikes! I still have to cycle through the entire benighted borough and there's not one good thing I can say about either the drivers or the council (and its singular investment in cycling infrastructure – the lights at end of shopping precinct/Wild West Croydon). It's saying something that I'm relieved to be on the A23 and in the tender embrace of Lambeth. Even Brixton doesn't touch Croydonia.

Victoria can be hellishing crowded during peaks and the roads aren't cyclist friendly (though there's plenty of side routes that make it tolerable). London Bridge is a bit more civilised though the junction at the north end is a bit of a nightmare. Leave more time though, the work there on the platforms restricts width so people have to filter out slowly and it can take several minutes, a process not much helped by man (or woman-)handling a Brompton through the crowds.

In theory, you can get the Thameslink from East Croydon. I'm not being rhetorical. I've heard it's theoretically possible for one to turn up on time. If scientists can spot the collision of distant black holes through the gravitation waves they emitted, I feel sure they can find a Thameslink train running on time somewhere in the universe.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 03 August, 2016, 07:55:20 pm
On the way home.    Wheeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!!  I do so _love_ a tailwind. :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonJo on 04 August, 2016, 09:21:15 pm
Woke early so decided to go to work on the bike for only the 4th time in 18 months. It was an uneventful if laborious ride in but the ride home wasn't so serene.

At 3 o'clock up pops a reminder on my screen that I'm due at the dentists at 4:10. Sh*t sh*t sh*t I'd totally forgotten this appointment. No chance of me making this is there? 1hr 15min  later I'm 15 miles away, propped sweating and gasping against the reception desk at the dentists apologising for being late. They seem a little bemused but book me in and send me to the waiting area where I collapse onto a chair, pouring with sweat and feeling sick.

And that's where I wait for the next 20 mins.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Afasoas on 08 August, 2016, 08:49:52 am
Uneventful this morning.
5 miles. 20 minutes. Not too shabby on a heavy hybrid. First cycle commute >3 years. 1 trip down, 9 to go.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 08 August, 2016, 08:54:15 am
Nearly did not do it, as the bolt fell out of the cranks. Thankfully spotted it so headed back home and got the winter bike out. Gosh it was slow coming in, it just felt so difficult. :-(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 08 August, 2016, 12:47:07 pm
You must have been riding east-west then. Pity the wind is going to be dying down before evening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 09 August, 2016, 09:02:47 am
Totally unmotivated at the mo, very lazy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 11 August, 2016, 08:00:00 am
I'm waiting for a bracket from the Bikemonger so should have bought a different bike, got a very soggy bottom and a bagder stripe. How do folk put up with this all the time?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 11 August, 2016, 09:39:46 am
Well they say issues come in 3s, so to round it off today, the chain snapped and bent the front derailleur.

Luckily I was riding in with a friend who had a chain tool, so we managed to hook the chain up but the derailleur I just left for now.

Bugger, I just was not supposed to ride that bike today!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 11 August, 2016, 07:52:58 pm
Work-bound 16.5 mph avg.

Home-bound 20 mph avg.

Surprising the difference a strong tail-wind and not having a laptop to lug makes innit? That and being full of black pudding sarnies rather than porridge. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 12 August, 2016, 12:15:36 pm
There was a weird accident at the top of Cedars Road last night.

A Merceds of some type was parked half on the pavement with most of the front left severely "tucked under" for want of a better description.
So the bumper, the spoiler bit underneath and even the front wheel were severely damaged, but no other car in sight and no broken glass.

It looks as though the driver tried to cut the corner, clipped the traffic island with the right side of the car and then wrecked the left hand side of the car on the kerb on the far side of the road.

Police were in attendance. I assume that the driver is going to claim that it all happened at street legal speeds...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 12 August, 2016, 08:57:42 pm
I saw this van on Klea Avenue (https://goo.gl/maps/jAibKtJMSR22) this morning.

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/RareBreedMeatCompany_20160812.jpg)

The company's name reminded me of "The Pirates! In an Adventure with Scientists!", and I felt the urge to chase them down and ask if they could provide me with some Dodo. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 13 August, 2016, 03:10:35 pm
Dutch explorers/colonists didn't think much to the taste of dodo, calling it the "wahlvogel".  Apparently this means "disgusting bird".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 14 August, 2016, 09:44:50 pm
I think that Dodo is beyond rare, but I do approve of your Pirates reference, TimO. Were you lightly armed (cutlass in mouth)?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 16 August, 2016, 02:07:24 am
First commute in a long time for me and the first from the new place.
It's longer, 21.5 against 18.0 miles. Unfortunately the extra distance includes 6 traffic lights and pedestrian lights and I was caught by most of them today.
Moving on, it was "Scorchio"* on the way in and mild coming home. I opted for arm warmers and that was a good decision.
I rather enjoyed it.

*By "Summer 2016" standards.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 16 August, 2016, 08:09:00 am
Never a tailwind when you're running late.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: seraphina on 16 August, 2016, 09:36:06 am
One of those glorious mornings when you just don't want to stop. A bit chillier than normal, but beautiful sunshine, blue skies and quiet roads.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 16 August, 2016, 09:50:23 am
Quote from: seraphina on 16 August, 2016, 09:36:06 am
One of those glorious mornings when you just don't want to stop. A bit chillier than normal, but beautiful sunshine, blue skies and quiet roads.

Given that the choice is between riding and sitting in an orifice it has to be pretty abysmal NOT to want to carry on. But I know what you mean.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 16 August, 2016, 09:59:18 am
Well I slept terribly (kept either waking up or dreaming I was waking up). I nearly stayed in bed for an extra hour and got the train in.

I just resisted and had a lovely ride in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 17 August, 2016, 09:25:23 am
More headwind, at least its sunny so I've been able to get away with not fettling the mudguard, better do that tonight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 17 August, 2016, 11:50:13 am
Me.

Due to slightly getting lost, it was 46.5km. Driving generally seemed considerate.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 17 August, 2016, 11:34:22 pm
And the round trip was around 90km.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 18 August, 2016, 08:19:32 am
Flew home last night with a decent cross-tail wind so fettled the mudguard on the Trek and topped the tyres up. This morning the latter proved to be a mistake since the extra pressure was obviously enough to force a sharp through the tube, the resulting de-pressurisation has caused the tread to part company with the carcass all round one sidewall. Oh well that tyre was supplied by Torslanda otp shortly after he opened the shop so has probably done the best part of 13k miles, mainly on the glass strewn streets of Manc. I think I've got a hamster skin the shed, so that's tonight's job

As a result I came in on the Sabbath and coming through Moss Side heard that tell-tale pfssst.....pfsst......pfsst and could see a spray of goo from the front, I could see the last bit of the shard of glass when I stopped at the lights but it sealed itself without intervention, so that answers the question of if the goo is still good.

Got out the shower to find I'd left my towel in my locker  ::-)

Still a decent ride in though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 18 August, 2016, 09:45:19 am
Ive been enjoying the commutes in the last few days in the great weather. Ive done this commute for 5 years now and in the last few days Ive seen more other bikes on it than ever.   This morning was a very pleasant cycle but encountered some d1ckhead in a van who squeezed past and some @rsehole on foot with a point to prove on a shared use path.  Thankfully these happened early on and the rest of the ride was grea.t
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 18 August, 2016, 11:52:41 pm
After yesterday's "shaveageddon, I was able to ride in today and very nice it was too despite my nearly being taken out twice by cars. By way of balance, a Stagecoach driver pased me in exemplary fashion going out of Cheadle. Another e-mail has gone to the depot to compliment them/their driver.
Coming home I must have had a tailwind (although it didn't feel like it) 'cos I hammered along and I set a top three Strava time. I'd have been even faster if I hadn't been slowed slightly by a car. The key to setting a good time on that particular segmanet is to come down off the canal bridge at full speed and not get caught by the succession of traffic lights.
I'll decide whether to ride in or not tomorrow when I see the weather. If it's fine in the afternoon I'll ride and hope for the best coming home. Once I'm there, I won't have any option but to ride back.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 22 August, 2016, 08:31:21 am
Clipped the edge of a pothole after Irlam locks then had a thudding sound once per tyre revolution. The hamsterskin had develop an alarming bulge, managed to boot it without removing the wheel.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 23 August, 2016, 12:02:17 am
Wet roads going in this pm although it didn't rain. I managed to overtake the same red-light jumper about 5 times between ChorltonCH and Cheadle :facepalm:. Since I wasn't going all that hard, he must have been really slow.
Coming home it was raining hard. Another duff forecast from the Met Office. I started off wearing a waterproof and I left it on even when the rain stopped.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 23 August, 2016, 12:13:00 am
It's rained a lot the last few days here, and it was still doing so when I rode in this morning with The River Ehen and Black Beck both looking a lot redder and angrier than normal, and some of the big winter puddles returning, but it cleared up nicely for the way home - and finally the wind dropped! :)

I extended my ride home down to Holmrook but with the river almost reaching the height of the road there I decided against my normal back roads and went back up the A595, then over Cold Fell (past grey sheep, white sheep, horses and Highland Coos :D) which was also semi flooded by run off, then through Ennerdale Bridge and up to Kirkland. Hilly but fun :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 23 August, 2016, 08:06:27 am
After the tyre issues with the Trek, picking a new durano plus up tonight, came on the Sabbath. I'm still fine tuning the position on this and wanted to tweak the bars slightly to find I've left my tool bottle on the Trek...bugger.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 23 August, 2016, 09:55:03 am
Witnessed Heard a minor RTC in Wokingham one way system this morning as an elderly gent turned into the parking bays on the right from the left hand lane and had a vehicle in his blind spot. I was arriving at a side turning and starting to look right, when I heard a horn sound followed by the crunch of deforming plastic. I then looked more closely at the traffic I was waiting for to see what was happening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 23 August, 2016, 06:23:34 pm
Where did all the cars come from today??? Must be the summer holidays as those back roads are usually empty. Also, I think the gaffer taped front guard on my Dawes is getting too rattly now and it's time to replace it.

I cut the ride shorter than planned tonight as the rain turned up while I was riding home and I didn't have a coat :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 23 August, 2016, 07:09:52 pm
That ride home was *ahem* toasty.
What's that stench of zookeeper's boot?
Oh, it's me  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 23 August, 2016, 10:15:26 pm
Dayglo POB wobbling towards me on psyclepath, clearly on a collision course.  Swerves at last minute after a ring of my bell and some frantic gesturing.

"Please keep to the left."
"Fuck off."
"Same to you."

Swindon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 24 August, 2016, 01:01:45 am
Hot and humid riding in this pm and I was suffering from a large dose of CBA so I took it easy. There was also a noticeable head-wind
It was much cooler on the the way home but I still couldn't summon up much enthusiasm so, again, I cruised along. The wind had also changed direction. Not a head-wind but some components of it were "against".
Still better than driving  :thumbsup:.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris N on 24 August, 2016, 11:19:51 am
Rode the 20 miles into work this morning without putting a foot down.  Even at the single traffic light - which was red when I arrived. :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 24 August, 2016, 12:58:52 pm
Overtaken by every cyclist I saw.
I didn't even have the 10 tonne laptop, so no excuse.
Whatevs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 24 August, 2016, 02:25:04 pm
Front mudguard stay came loose again today on the ride in, the only wrinkle in a nice ride in.

(specialized own brand mudguards which fit into wee holes in the frame secured by grubscrews. Look really nice but rattly at the best of times. 2nd time its happened and I don't like to nip the screw up too tight as its some tiny torx screw, easily rounded. I might revert to sks's as the spec'y's have not lasted at all well)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 24 August, 2016, 03:11:04 pm
I managed to hit the odd kerb/road join into Klea Avenue (https://goo.gl/maps/gQaGfkUjgxq) almost perfectly badly, and not even going very fast.  The tyre was pumped up to 100psi on Monday, so wasn't close to being flat, but I still managed to get a snakebite puncture, and deform the rim of the wheel.

After much buggering about, the front wheel will turn and can be braked, carefully, but if I need to make an emergency stop, I risk going into flight when the bump in the rim is caught by the brakes.

It was a very cheap wheel, so I'm not entirely surprised it failed.  I'm fairly sure I've got a workable front wheel I can swap over from another bike, and I've got a reasonably good wheel, with a Weinmann XR18 rim on it, ordered via eBay.

I may go back to using Abbeville Road, which is not quite as easy to turn into, but has a much nicer junction (ie no stupid fuckwitted poorly laid stones).

All a bit annoying though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 24 August, 2016, 05:05:50 pm
Quote from: TimO on 24 August, 2016, 03:11:04 pm
I managed to hit the odd kerb/road join into Klea Avenue (https://goo.gl/maps/gQaGfkUjgxq) almost perfectly badly, and not even going very fast.  The tyre was pumped up to 100psi on Monday, so wasn't close to being flat, but I still managed to get a snakebite puncture, and deform the rim of the wheel.

After much buggering about, the front wheel will turn and can be braked, carefully, but if I need to make an emergency stop, I risk going into flight when the bump in the rim is caught by the brakes.

It was a very cheap wheel, so I'm not entirely surprised it failed.  I'm fairly sure I've got a workable front wheel I can swap over from another bike, and I've got a reasonably good wheel, with a Weinmann XR18 rim on it, ordered via eBay.

I may go back to using Abbeville Road, which is not quite as easy to turn into, but has a much nicer junction (ie no stupid fuckwitted poorly laid stones).

All a bit annoying though.

I assume you ride the whole length of Cavendish Road.
Try turning right at Hydethorpe Road and following it down to the end and then turn left into Thornton Road. Follow that down to the roundabout and then turn right into Clarence Avenue and at the lights turn left onto the S. Circular and then immediately right into Rodenhurst Road, then left into Hambalt Road follow it to the end, turn right and you'll be in Narbonne Avenue.

It might sound a bit bonkers, but it's so much quieter and less aggressive than your current route. Plus crossing the S. Circular on traffic lights is a huge bonus in my book. Cavendish Road is universally occupied by drivers who behave like dicks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 24 August, 2016, 06:57:16 pm
One of those near* perfect trips this morning.  Nice sunrise and just cool enough to not overheat,  ground mist on the fields.  Played catch up with a rabbit running along the road for a while then a mile or two further on the same again with a pair of juvenile squirrels and out by Donkeywell farm deer (roe?) running in the field next the road.

Was a hot and sweaty mess on the home-bound trip.


*It was work-bound. Nuff sed?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 24 August, 2016, 08:35:12 pm
Pretty out there today. Not that warm due to a Northerly wind, but bright sunshine for an extended ride home :)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Ux7fiG3Cmhwow8zZ7vkLSMnX1dRxWfSC8um-VHG1uN0zRY1tBPoRfZ58hFDFuW-cfy0kxsDdyJjGKQ=w1366-h768-rw-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/9y7DtYZluZ-2TUjKkKrPpanm8D-yp1alKjH3r-ONQ5UruhA1MyUeGm5zCzpSnlUxib5hLJWtfnNb-WJiUlGht5grh0pm_OvNJf44GU3vrD2KwMV5v_UbzdK3PYm0XWq4BfcZRQjnClY2yFOx5bc4VRyRgkX8xqv7uXk6oZQ0_wod6jJKdBnvzNQ-rXd82PYvZnfEq-3QIAS-QEYDAhbQw0_g3NUBTCEYsCnJ_MDJrJN9NIpCB1ceixxCdeBUpENSbKuBMByBvDhLyTK-uQvb7u-jMZGOA6ImRdaMhdvgwGmytAJvm44r_TVnttvT6suUD7QiW0tGlHo1HJf96RIWglQSRhuk0E9lDfR4jTG7LQ9yYEFLkKr1pW0mZbHmNYyJGL_bK-Nwz3bjrjTCj7vrN8JcPKQaTft6HP79atBJY2n4gr6efK4-kOddI7MpHUe5BE4EmWikLyPhwP2JGvLO61JjGitfYbU8CGmUI7aJRqpI5FW6Lg29qfNeY9cTUZ6SJ2lIiIRGDSiRuIXthAngiBjWMEY9dQXRpdpi7J2kjWG1nkX0kdXIBtIdTl3iQNRLdwNM2DVmVpFrkWhxoOtcw6eY_kK19z0Ay_fUXwmsQ06nQgQy=w1054-h643-no)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 25 August, 2016, 01:33:29 am
In and out in pleasant weather, a run-in with Cheadle Youf notwithstanding. I got called a "Speccy twat" by a (seemingly) 12 year old.
He's the sort of rebel who will soon be drinking Cabernet Sauvignon at room temperature just to make a statement.

In other news this is 3 of 3 for the week and I'm determined to make it 5 of 5. I think I'd better pack the waterproofs for tomorrow night's ride home .....

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 25 August, 2016, 08:48:22 am
Last one of the week, cattle car tomorrow, and I suspect it may well be the last one this year without lights  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 25 August, 2016, 10:11:02 am
After temporarily sorting out the front wheel yesterday evening, with an old but workable spare, the bottom bracket started making silly bugger sounds today.  With lots of very loud clicks, which are also "feelable" through the pedals, it looks like it is close to failing completely.

Why do bicycle mechanical problems always occur in bunches?  ???

I'm hoping with careful cycling, it'll survive on the way home this evening, but I may be pushing my luck if I try and use it tomorrow as well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 25 August, 2016, 01:09:49 pm
Quote from: TimO on 24 August, 2016, 03:11:04 pm
I managed to hit the odd kerb/road join into Klea Avenue (https://goo.gl/maps/gQaGfkUjgxq) almost perfectly badly, and not even going very fast.  The tyre was pumped up to 100psi on Monday, so wasn't close to being flat, but I still managed to get a snakebite puncture, and deform the rim of the wheel.

After much buggering about, the front wheel will turn and can be braked, carefully, but if I need to make an emergency stop, I risk going into flight when the bump in the rim is caught by the brakes.

It was a very cheap wheel, so I'm not entirely surprised it failed.  I'm fairly sure I've got a workable front wheel I can swap over from another bike, and I've got a reasonably good wheel, with a Weinmann XR18 rim on it, ordered via eBay.

I may go back to using Abbeville Road, which is not quite as easy to turn into, but has a much nicer junction (ie no stupid fuckwitted poorly laid stones).

All a bit annoying though.

Chasing through, I think www.standardsforhighways.co.uk/dmrb/vol6/section3/ta5787.pdf s1.4.4, vide

"1.4.4 The practice of placing granite sets into the carriageway, initially flush, across the mouth of minor roads at
junctions and at laybys, should be avoided wherever possible. These sets often become raised or polished and can
cause a danger, particularly to cyclists and pedestrians."

stands, if you wish to stick THE MAN with a bill; ask for last when inspected and recorded outcome.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 25 August, 2016, 08:26:48 pm
Quote from: iddu on 25 August, 2016, 01:09:49 pm
... if you wish to stick THE MAN with a bill; ask for last when inspected and recorded outcome.

I'm not even sure who is liable, it's in Lambeth, but I think the South Circular is TfL's responsibility.  Looking at Fill That Hole, it's been reported three times already, in July and August of last year, February of this year, and now August of this year (#117658,  #118051, #124036 & #132158).  Presumably they don't give a damn.

At least one of those who reported it, came close to having a bad accident, and clearly it's damaging to property.  In general I wouldn't bother making a claim, but it may force them to think about actually doing something.

I found a webpage for TfL that lets me submit a road defect report, which I've done.  I'm not overly confident of anything happening, because it's not much of an issue for a car, but it's hard to avoid on a bicycle because of its width.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 26 August, 2016, 12:19:10 am
I dodged the rain on the way in this afternoon but I wasn't so lucky coming home.
Getting in the shower didn't make me much wetter than I already was.
The forecast tomorrow looks OK so I'm pretty sure that I'll make it 5 of 5.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Diver300 on 26 August, 2016, 06:50:51 am
On the Toll Bar roundabout in Coventry, this sign has just appeared. It is around 300 m from the roundabout where the long-term roadworks are.

(http://www.mtrak.co.uk/rover/tollbarcrop.jpg)

The suggested bike route is a half-mile (measured on google maps) walk, going past 7 sets of pedestrian controlled lights, each with a 30 s delay whether there is traffic or not.

The road route is half that distance, with two sets of lights, and two give-ways onto roundabouts.

As you can see, clearing the route of cyclists has freed up the congestion completely.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 26 August, 2016, 05:23:14 pm
Unusually, I cycled on Red to work today, since the commuter bicycle is up on the blocks, until I put a replacement bottom bracket on it (hopefully tomorrow).

On the way to work, everything was fine, but after the bike had been left out all day, there was a good demonstration of differential thermal expansion.

The crankset is black, and after sitting in the sun most of the day, it had obviously absorbed that heat, and expanded slightly.

When I left for home, the left hand crank squeaked something 'orrible.  When I stopped, and tightened up the two bolts holding it onto the crank "shaft", that squeaking disappeared immediately, thankfully!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 26 August, 2016, 11:10:48 pm
A nice commute in today, my second of the week. One minor almost went wrong thing, never happened before:
I had some newish gloves on, with loops between the fingers to help get them off. One of the loops hooked itself onto my bar end levers. Cue a spot of hasty riding in the drops until I got to a point where I could get my hand back.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 26 August, 2016, 11:34:49 pm
I did manage 5 out of 5 for the week which is strangely satisfying even if it's not really that much of an achievement.
I've found a little cut-through in Cheadle that misses the last traffic light although it still means that I have to negotiate the traffic queues down the main street.
It was surprisingly cold coming home; I should have used more additional clothing than the summer-weight arm-warmers that I put on.

I've got the weekend off and my shift on Monday starts at 06.00.
I'll be taking the car.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 30 August, 2016, 07:36:58 pm
Yes, car yesterday but luxury this morning; an 08.00 start so I rode in.
It was chilly. The windproof jacket was required, as were lights. Winter's coming.
The return was much warmer; it was almost like Summer.
It wasn't the most relaxing ride in: after my "Tubeless" dramas, I was hyper sensitive to how the rear tyre felt going over bumps just in case it was going down. Thankfully, it wasn't.
I could have done without riding through some glass near to home on the way back. A quick stop and tyre examination suggests that none has gone into the rubber. It must have been the last minute second "Ninja" flick that did it.

There's an interesting day in prospect tomorrow. The car is due a service and some work so I'm taking it to the nearest Subaru specialist with a good on-line reputation that I can find. They're in Buxton.
The plan is to drive in to work then, afterwards, go on to Buxton. The bike is in the back of the car (don't have to take the wheels off to get it in there  :thumbsup:) and I'm intending to ride home via Long Hill and Whalley Bridge. After that it'll either be the long swoop down the A6 or, if I feel adventurous, up through Lyme Park and down to the Westgate.
Since the weather looks good, it'll be a nice change from riding through the suburbs of MCR.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 30 August, 2016, 11:22:45 pm
Foggy start, sunny finish. 27 miles.

Then 10 miles to rowing club in the evening. Think you can out accelerate a cyclist, mr van driver? Think again. You were stationary again after 100 yards anyway.

And then 21 miles home.

Tired now - 4h of cycling and 1.5h of rowing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 31 August, 2016, 08:31:33 am
Warmer than expected so slightly overdressed and a tight achilles meant I was taking it very easy this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 31 August, 2016, 09:19:51 pm
Half commuting on the Brommie at moment (train inbound because of an insanely early 9am (!) start, cycle home). As someone who only occasionally goes to work (leaving dos, free cake, that kind of thing), a couple of days commuting in the London rush hour is interesting. The number of bicycles is amazing, as is finally seeing some thought going into a cycling infrastructure and acknowledging the bicycle as a genuine mode of transport. On the downside, the significant minority of aggressive cyclists (always male, in lycra, with all the kit). You know the deal, racing everywhere, overtaking by a whisker, and making those noises when someone has the temerity to be in their way. I console myself by the fact the cycling demographic seems to be broadening (certainly more female cyclists and more people in civilian clothes). It was a delight to see a couple pootling side-by-side across Blackfriars Bridge so they could chat and holding up all the rush hour roadies. Ha thrice ha. Long may you be delayed. I swear the lycra was doing little to contain their frustration.

On the downside, probably the last week I can do my new much improved A22-avoidance route home, the twilight is creeping into the end of my ride, and I don't much fancy the unlit and twisty lane when it's actually dark.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 01 September, 2016, 08:15:15 am
Sunny, gentle tailwind and my legs are coming back, a decent start to the day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 01 September, 2016, 08:23:39 am
Quote from: sg37409 on 24 August, 2016, 02:25:04 pm
Front mudguard stay came loose again today on the ride in, the only wrinkle in a nice ride in.

(specialized own brand mudguards which fit into wee holes in the frame secured by grubscrews. Look really nice but rattly at the best of times. 2nd time its happened and I don't like to nip the screw up too tight as its some tiny torx screw, easily rounded. I might revert to sks's as the spec'y's have not lasted at all well)

Came loose *again* last night.  Used a wee bit of Loctite to try to stop this, its really crap having it rattle away like hell on the commute.
On the Brompton today due to misc reasons. Nice wee jog in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 01 September, 2016, 08:23:46 am
Quote from: ian on 31 August, 2016, 09:19:51 pm
... On the downside, the significant minority of aggressive cyclists (always male, in lycra, with all the kit). You know the deal, racing everywhere, overtaking by a whisker, and making those noises when someone has the temerity to be in their way. ...

When I leave at 6am, like today, it's as much about avoiding the mass of cycling stupidity on Queenstown Road, as it is avoiding the busier motorised traffic later on.  Most of the time, at the Traffic lights at the top of Cedars Road, off of Clapham Common, it's best to let them all sprint away.  Even on the heavy slow single speed commuter, I normally overtake most of them carefully on Queenstown Road, without even trying.

To see less than half a dozen cyclists, I probably have to be at Queenstown Road before 6-30am, which essentially requires waking up at about 4-45am!  This doesn't happen too often. :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 01 September, 2016, 10:09:20 am
Bagged me another KOM on a singletrack section on the way home last night. Achieved by staying just on the  :thumbsup: side of being out of control 8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 01 September, 2016, 01:13:49 pm
Every year, I get a little unfit in the cold dark months and as Late spring arrives arrives I start to speed up ready for the warm light months.  So it is now, oh no, its September already.

Unfortunately in the Spring I twisted my thumb in a gardening accident.  No problem I thought.  But as I rode to work and back the pain increased as the dangling thumb was moved with the road vibrations.  I decided it was best to bike-station-station-bike-work-bike-station-station-bike commutes to quicken the healing.

I got better lets go again. I start to get fitter. The hand is working normally.  I start to ride faster and easily. I am at work and I am asked to contribute to a collection for a fellow worker wedding gift.  My wallet is typically empty so I run across the road to the bank and do the cash point ritual and I have cash.  I run back across the road and sprain my calf.

I walked with a limp. I could walk upstairs.  Downstairs was a big problem. I could ride the bike. Get on and off the bike was tricky. So more bike-train-bike commutes. I used the lifts at Cardiff station for the first time ever. Home station Radyr has steps. Up good Down bad.

So here is September I have missed commuting in most of the good weather and school holidays (there are three schools on my commute :(). Still 11/2 commutes left before the schools come back.








 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 01 September, 2016, 10:21:33 pm
Quote from: TimO on 01 September, 2016, 08:23:46 am
Quote from: ian on 31 August, 2016, 09:19:51 pm
... On the downside, the significant minority of aggressive cyclists (always male, in lycra, with all the kit). You know the deal, racing everywhere, overtaking by a whisker, and making those noises when someone has the temerity to be in their way. ...

When I leave at 6am, like today, it's as much about avoiding the mass of cycling stupidity on Queenstown Road, as it is avoiding the busier motorised traffic later on.  Most of the time, at the Traffic lights at the top of Cedars Road, off of Clapham Common, it's best to let them all sprint away.  Even on the heavy slow single speed commuter, I normally overtake most of them carefully on Queenstown Road, without even trying.

To see less than half a dozen cyclists, I probably have to be at Queenstown Road before 6-30am, which essentially requires waking up at about 4-45am!  This doesn't happen too often. :D

I've always assumed that time of the morning is fictional.

I'm evidently pretty spritely on a Brompton but I don't feel the need to barge past other cyclists or wedge myself in pole position at the lights (mostly so they can slowly wobble their way back into their spds when the lights change).

Got the train back this evening because beer doesn't mix with a long ride that includes adventures in Wild West Croydon. I've probably had my annual quota of A23 fumes and particulates already this week anyway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 02 September, 2016, 08:16:20 am
Black over Bill's mother's so a full complement of lights this morning, a decent run in including a tow off Travis Perkins up Kings Road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 05 September, 2016, 03:34:47 pm
It's going to be one of those nagging cross /headwind both ways days.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 05 September, 2016, 11:58:43 pm
Definite headwind on the way in this pm. I thought it was fairly still on the way home. It was also very humid.
I had one of those ICBA days so I went with the flow.
Holiday tomorrow, car commute on Wednesday and off to the Friday's Tour on Thursday. Happy days.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 06 September, 2016, 08:10:10 am
Nice cross tail wind which helped at Princess Parkway since the lights changed as I was filtering and Mr Audi driver didn't want to let me back in and closed the gap to fag paper clearance to the Not-a-Mini in front, fortunately my legs responded and I managed to pass the Not-a-Mini and slot in behind a lorry for a nice slipstream before leaving them all behind at the next lights.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 06 September, 2016, 05:42:30 pm
<gasps for breath>
Averaged over 32kph on tonight's ride 17k ride home, which includes the only hill on my commute.
Slight tailwind assist.
A few sustained 40kph stretches.

Legs are a bit wobbly now!

https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1342533448
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 06 September, 2016, 06:33:11 pm
 :P

A bit warm and muggy for that, no?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 06 September, 2016, 07:22:35 pm
You're not wrong.

<sweaty blob>
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: aidan.f on 06 September, 2016, 09:24:52 pm
First commute yesterday from, today to, my new  working location at Fire  Brigade HQ Washington, 16 miles from home. Choice of either main roads - will be good for icy winter mornings or the Sunderland cycle  path, which is 95% hard surface, albeit a bit bumpy in places.

Best things on site, the cycle  store - BFO gates and  locks, and changing room and showers, - there is  even a hairdryer.
Only doing 2-3  days a  week here, plan is  flexible hours ride in early on the main road route - good traffic free return journey on the cycle route.

Feeling optimistic. lets hope I stay on a  positive roll through the winter.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 06 September, 2016, 10:37:55 pm
The cows are back using the NCN72 underpass again. My tyres now have deep brown stripes around the sidewalls and there's more on the bike. There's enough to be slippery now, but on past form it will become almost impossible when they've been using that track a few weeks and it's over rim deep :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 07 September, 2016, 10:03:38 am
That's $h!t mcshroom....err... the slightly smelly black and white windproof over there please.

My commute today was rather pleasant in the sunshine until Moss Side where someone took exception to me passing another cyclist, I thought she was going to climb out the window in attempt to berate me at the lights about single file, I didn't hang around to listen to her bile.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Dman01 on 07 September, 2016, 12:56:00 pm
My commute in has so regularly been the highlight of my day of late!  Not sure whether this is due to having a good route or a rubbish job though...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 07 September, 2016, 01:43:29 pm
Set off listening to Today and an interview with Lee Martin's brother (Lee was killed by a mobile phone use repeat offender).  This put a bit a bit of a dampener on things, which were lifted by the site of a child (small) being taken to nursery on its father's bike on one of those toptube mounted child seats. Big grins all round.

Further along, Today returned to the death by dangerous driving debate, with an interview with Dominic Grieve, former Attorney General, who attempted to explain why death by dangerous driving is a better bet than manslaughter.  Meanwhile I was overtaking slow moving queued cars and noticed that a driver of one was on the phone. I stopped an tapped on the window.  She jumped and looked at me. I did my best to appear non-threatening and gestured that she should wind the window down.  She didn't, so I asked, loudly, complete with mime, that she please put the phone down, which she did.

And so to work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 07 September, 2016, 02:14:19 pm
I was almost crushed by a Land Rover Discovery.

It had stopped at the entrance to a single lane toll bridge. A car coming the other way had priority by virtue of being further along the bridge. I had spotted this before the Discovery driver, and had stopped behind her with enough room (I thought) for her to reverse and allow the other car past.

I watched as she put it into reverse and came straight at me at a speed that suggested she hadn't seen me. My two "STOP!"s didn't work and, when her car was close enough to me to be pushing me and the bike backwards I was close enough to hit her rear screen hard with the flat of my hand. That did it.

I was a bit shaken. So was she. She apologised several times and thanked me for what I did (I think she meant she was grateful for slapping her car because, I infer, if I hadn't, things would have turned out differently).

I know she hit me with her car, and it was frightening, but neither the bike nor I were harmed, and I think she learned something. So I left it there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 07 September, 2016, 04:53:57 pm
Glad you and the steed are OK Paul.

it is incidents like that that result in my waiting position being behind and either to the left or right of the vehicle in front so I can see their mirrors.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 07 September, 2016, 04:57:26 pm
Cheers Fuzzy.

Yep, I'll not make that mistake again soon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 07 September, 2016, 05:48:08 pm
Sounds scary but I'm glad you're ok Paul.

My commute was pretty uneventful, not that sunny but warm and humid meant I arrived at work dripping. Luckily we have proper showers in our new offices :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 08 September, 2016, 08:18:45 am
Last night going down Kings Road an Astra pulled alongside with the passenger window down and the driver said something and then 'pull over', he passed me and came to stop a few yards down the road in the parking bays and I pulled up alongside expecting verbal and then I got "I just wanted to say you're a very good bike rider, really clear signals and excellent road positioning", chaps name was Michael, very nice bloke but all a bit bizarre really.

Upon arrival this morning I discovered that the bike shed is really rather shiny, that'll be what the guy with the pressure washer was doing last night, unfortunately the digital access lock hasn't taken it too well  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 08 September, 2016, 09:12:08 am
Really close again today, 3rd day in a row.
Did a longer commute (my Friday ride) as I've hardly done any of those this year and it'll be getting a bit dark for that soon. Temporary lights at corstorphine causing havoc. Its pretty funny.   Pleasant ride in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 08 September, 2016, 12:57:51 pm
Quote from: Si S on 08 September, 2016, 08:18:45 am
Last night going down Kings Road an Astra pulled alongside with the passenger window down and the driver said something and then 'pull over', he passed me and came to stop a few yards down the road in the parking bays and I pulled up alongside expecting verbal and then I got "I just wanted to say you're a very good bike rider, really clear signals and excellent road positioning", chaps name was Michael, very nice bloke but all a bit bizarre really.

That is bizarre. I'm not sure that I'd have pulled over but if I had, (depending on my mood) I might have been annoyed at the interruption/condescension, or pleased at the feedback.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 09 September, 2016, 08:05:38 am
First full house for a while, bad case of Friday legs  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: trekker12 on 09 September, 2016, 01:12:54 pm
Got wheel suckered yesterday.

Mrs trekker and I were battling into a headwind along a busy road we usually try to avoid but it's the quickest most direct route home as we had lots to do.

I looked behind shortly after a red light and there was a third bike in our chain. He just appeared behind me from no where. I passed Mrs Trekker and told her to be aware he was there.

After another half mile I was getting a bit annoyed with this and having decided I'd had enough of fighting into the headwind eased my pace off a little (we weren't going particularly fast anyway) and he finally passed with a thousand yard stare into the distance and didn't say a word. At this point I know I should have latched onto his wheel and sat there until we got into town but we didn't have the pace or the inclination to match his sudden new found speed and were about to turn off the main road anyway.

How rude can you get? To sit there without asking for a wheel is one thing but to not even thank us for the tow is just appalling!!!

#bloodycyclists
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 12 September, 2016, 11:55:44 am
I cycled to the station!

Yes a whole 1.2miles, but with arm in sling and graft site on pelvis still pretty sore, it felt like 100miles and I felt every bump. Still, I managed.
Freedom, of a sort, and still easier than walking.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 12 September, 2016, 12:33:32 pm
The schools are back, therefore the traffic was back and I was filtering past the queues.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 12 September, 2016, 08:55:26 pm
Lights on the way home tonight.  :(
Albeit only blinkies, and I did leave work later than usual.
I've just shoved some newly recharged cells into two Hope Vision 1s, as I can see them being put to use over the next few days.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 13 September, 2016, 08:29:35 am
Yesterday was very hard work. This morning was much easier probably due to having more than 40 psi in the tyres  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Afasoas on 13 September, 2016, 06:59:29 pm
Cycled home in heavy rain and localised flooding. Roadside grates had been dislodged by the swell forcing me to use primary position in places. In other places it was impossible to tell if the grates had been dislodged because there was too much flooding. Some drivers were exemplary given the conditions. Many were not. A not-insignificant proportion were simply very dangerous in their eagerness to get home with absolutely no consideration for the effect or potential effect their tailgating, failure to yield, insufficiently wide overtaking, spray nor wake (yes, wake!) had on other road users.

I even tried a cycling facility but it had a yield point every 25m with slippy concrete tactile paving, complete with ridges running in the direction of travel. It's almost as if it was purposely designed to forcibly dismount a cyclist.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 14 September, 2016, 08:08:01 am
Biblical last night but at least I missed the hail, quite a wind this morning making it heavy going, just hope it doesn't swing around.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 14 September, 2016, 12:42:21 pm
Scary ride in today, as it was my first ride fixed since my crash 2 years ago and I've become anxious about fixed riding since. I made it though, and hopefully I'll make it home without turning the wheel back round. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: dave r on 14 September, 2016, 03:10:31 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 14 September, 2016, 12:42:21 pm
Scary ride in today, as it was my first ride fixed since my crash 2 years ago and I've become anxious about fixed riding since. I made it though, and hopefully I'll make it home without turning the wheel back round. :)

Well done, keep at it and it will get to be routine again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 14 September, 2016, 03:22:19 pm
Sunny & warm here in Oxon, for my 30km round trip.  All good -  except that my change of clothes was in the locker and I'd left the key at home, still, I coped.   :)

Note to self - have a back-up non-locker set of clothes at work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Diver300 on 14 September, 2016, 07:29:31 pm
Just over 25 miles each way today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 14 September, 2016, 07:46:51 pm
I really don't expect to finish off a full bottle of water on 15 mile trip in September.  July yeah, August hmm probably, but September? Now that's just silly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 14 September, 2016, 08:14:52 pm
Quote from: dave r on 14 September, 2016, 03:10:31 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 14 September, 2016, 12:42:21 pm
Scary ride in today, as it was my first ride fixed since my crash 2 years ago and I've become anxious about fixed riding since. I made it though, and hopefully I'll make it home without turning the wheel back round. :)

Well done, keep at it and it will get to be routine again.

Thank you. I made it home and took it out to church and back this evening. One gentle reminder I needed to keep pedalling, and quite a bit of braking on the descents as I couldn't get my legs to turn over fast enough but otherwise ok :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ruthie on 14 September, 2016, 08:17:20 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 14 September, 2016, 08:14:52 pm
Quote from: dave r on 14 September, 2016, 03:10:31 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 14 September, 2016, 12:42:21 pm
Scary ride in today, as it was my first ride fixed since my crash 2 years ago and I've become anxious about fixed riding since. I made it though, and hopefully I'll make it home without turning the wheel back round. :)

Well done, keep at it and it will get to be routine again.

Thank you. I made it home and took it out to church and back this evening. One gentle reminder I needed to keep pedalling, and quite a bit of braking on the descents as I couldn't get my legs to turn over fast enough but otherwise ok :)

Are you hoping for some training benefit from fixed commuting?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 14 September, 2016, 08:46:55 pm
Quote from: Ruthie on 14 September, 2016, 08:17:20 pm
Are you hoping for some training benefit from fixed commuting?

I'd like to work on smoothing my pedal action out a bit, but really this is more a mental thing to prove to myself I can do it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 14 September, 2016, 09:44:45 pm
As I had a meeting at Heathrow, I bimbled out a bit early to shuck off the A/C and catch the embers of the evening (and summer). I had only planned to ride to a nearby train station but ended up cycling the entire way home (given a few 'routing ambiguities', that entailed 3 hours of Bromptoneering).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 14 September, 2016, 09:58:49 pm
Quote from: ian on 14 September, 2016, 09:44:45 pm
As I had a meeting at Heathrow, I bimbled out a bit early to shuck off the A/C and catch the embers of the evening (and summer). I had only planned to ride to a nearby train station but ended up cycling the entire way home (given a few 'routing ambiguities', that entailed 3 hours of Bromptoneering).
Tres formidable :thumbsup:
I hope you enjoyed.
ETA
I've done a few long days at work of recent.
I've found the leisurely ride home most beneficial
ETFA
The bit along the Thames being particularly nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 14 September, 2016, 10:25:44 pm
I sort of planned to ride along the Thames, but my attempt to unscramble the road tagliatelle that someone spilled where the A4 and M4 meet resulted in a bit more local exploration than was strictly required before I found Kew Bridge. At that point it was dark, so I opted for the full-on unadulterated delights of the South Circular all the way to Streatham. Still the evening was fine and the traffic mostly benign.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 15 September, 2016, 12:41:56 pm
Some time ago I lost my fitbit for the umpteenth time and used that as an opportunity to upgrade to a fancy thing that sits on your wrist and tells you stuff. I justified this on the basis that on days like today, when the weather is dubious for my bridge,   I can just glance at my wrist, and divert to the other, less lovely bridge, and make my journey a mile or two longer rather than 5 miles longer.
Today, I glanced, I saw the Transporter Bridge Alert, diverted , and smugly told myself IT WAS WORTH THE UPGRADE.

Until I got to work and discovered the Alert was informing me that the bridge was open.

:facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 15 September, 2016, 05:39:34 pm
See also The "I'm Such a Fecking Div" Thread

:-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 15 September, 2016, 09:37:44 pm
Well I got rather wet. On the other hand it was warm enough that I didn't feel the need to don my waterproof.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 15 September, 2016, 09:42:19 pm
Cycled back from Heathrow again. Some ominous cloudage that I worried would have me scuttling for the nearest station, but not a jot of rain. I'm home now and declare the summer over. I hope you all enjoyed it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 15 September, 2016, 09:59:18 pm
Hmm,

I don't really use Strava, but I do have an account there which I never used.
However, since I let Garmin Connect move me to the new Modern view about a year ago, it automagically uploads anything you send to Garmin to Strava too. ( I did have to actively allow this. )

So now my commute seems to have some 'segments'.
Without really knowing it, I seem to have bested my PB on the trivial climb out of my local village twice in the last few days.

Apparently, I averaged 33.7kph on the Culter Hill Sprint, which was a bit of a surprise because I was not riding eyeballs-out, it was just a commute.
So pleased with that!

https://www.strava.com/activities/713308919



Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 15 September, 2016, 10:09:40 pm
I had to take my specs off for the morning commute, because fog  :-X
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 15 September, 2016, 10:18:13 pm
Yes, this morning was the first day I have used lights on the commute, on account of the Sea Harr around Aberdeen.
It was really quite thick this morning.
I had full-length arms on.
Visibility on the Deeside road was poor.
Condensation on my Plastic Lid was pouring down onto my face.

It burned off in Banchory by mid-morning revealing a nice day.
Not sure if it ever burned off in town.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 15 September, 2016, 10:26:00 pm
Not until ~5pm.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 15 September, 2016, 10:46:42 pm
From Feanor Towers, which is a modest height up the side of the Dee valley, we often wake up to look down upon deep fogs in the valley a few tens of metres below us.

The cool air has sunk into the Dee valley overnight, and by morning you can see the exact elevation where the temperature has reached the dew-point, and the air has released the moisture.

As I ride into work, I drop down sometimes into the cooler air and into the fog, and then ride up the valley to the West, and out of the cooler air and suddenly out of the dew-point into a sunlit day.

(I sound like Tom Bombadil.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 16 September, 2016, 09:29:49 am
Last night was a little interesting. Torrential down pour delayed my departure from work and I had to paddle out of the basement lobby to the bike in the undercroft.

The roads were submerged in a number of places so I filled my shoes with spray off my front wheel.  :(

Plenty of emergency service vehicles hurrying around, one fire engine pumping water away from a low lying property. Two lightening strikes to trees had blocked the road but they were cleared by the time I came through.

This morning was wet again but not nearly as drastic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cygnet on 16 September, 2016, 04:13:38 pm
Well yesterday evening but:

Traffic was doing what is fast becoming the norm and clogging up every inch of available road so I diverted onto the Thames path.

At one of the barriers (the ones that look like two staggered oversized Sheffield stands) medium sized child was heading towards me from the other side. Without slowing down, he just stuck his chin on his handlebars and rode underneath!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 16 September, 2016, 04:47:13 pm
A bit blusterous on the way home.
I suspect jacket and bib-tights will be out before long.
(Just as well as my bib shorts are disintegrating)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 16 September, 2016, 06:00:04 pm
There are times I really like my coastal commute. Riding home into a strong headwind on a Friday afternoon isn't really one of them though.

Still, no commuting for a few days now as I'm off to Devon for a week :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SoreTween on 16 September, 2016, 09:44:58 pm
Quote from: cygnet on 16 September, 2016, 04:13:38 pm
At one of the barriers (the ones that look like two staggered oversized Sheffield stands) medium sized child was heading towards me from the other side. Without slowing down, he just stuck his chin on his handlebars and rode underneath!

I used to do that.  T'was a kinda unspoken pointless bravery thing to begin with among my circle of friends.  None of us had more than an inch and a half each side of the handlebars under the ones round our way and none of our spines were far clear of the horizontal.  One friend a couple of sandwiches short of a picnic even did it on his cow-horn-bars alternate bike that wouldn't technically fit by a mm or so.  Given enough speed and hit it square the hoop and his bars deformed enough, and he hit it square every time the nutter.  Still, the skill learned was useful escaping local (older, larger) thugs twice one summer.  Shame they pulled up both times as it would have been life altering for them if they'd tried to follow us through, and thoroughly deserved.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 19 September, 2016, 08:01:29 pm
About a mile after leaving work to head home this evening I was pulling away from some lights when there was a hiccup from the back of the bike followed by a bump and a noise every wheel revolution.

(http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f129/Ashaman42/IMG_20160919_190506844_zpswfkgf2ky.jpg)

Perusal at the side of the road found this embedded up to the bend in my tyre (5p for scale). Tyre still inflated but couldn't ride home with the bump-da-thunk. Crossed my fingers and pulled it out... aaaaand the tyre stayed inflated  :o :o Huzzah  :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

It seems it went in at a tangent to the tyre and ran along the tyre rather than through it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 19 September, 2016, 09:49:52 pm
practically flew home, seems the 4 days off the bike* were well needed.

* 2 days for a snapped chain and 2 days camping with the scouts.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 20 September, 2016, 08:08:52 am
Starting to get just a bit nippy in the mornings now, or maybe I'm getting nesh.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Afasoas on 20 September, 2016, 08:50:31 am
Just clocked over 80 commuting miles, which is 80 more miles than I did in the whole of last year.
Just set a PB too that returns an average 17.5 mph, which isn't too shabby given the pies and heavy bike I'm dragging around.
Quote from: Ashaman42 on 19 September, 2016, 08:01:29 pm
About a mile after leaving work to head home this evening I was pulling away from some lights when there was a hiccup from the back of the bike followed by a bump and a noise every wheel revolution.

(http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f129/Ashaman42/IMG_20160919_190506844_zpswfkgf2ky.jpg)
It seems it went in at a tangent to the tyre and ran along the tyre rather than through it.

What did you do to win favour with the p***ture feary?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 20 September, 2016, 09:22:14 am
I've no idea but I ain't complaining
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 20 September, 2016, 03:30:57 pm
Cooler. 11C this morning as I rode in. 1st time in a while I haven't had a sweaty bit on my back from my bag.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: seraphina on 21 September, 2016, 09:25:59 am
Damp this morning, and very foggy. Had to do Walk of Shame to pick up my front light which made a bid for freedom. Once reunited with bike, it proceeded to make irritating noises the whole way. Glad i had the lights though, fog was very thick. It was a lovely ride, with many very pretty spiderwebs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 21 September, 2016, 11:53:51 am
Hitting maximum rush hour today, on Queenstown Road (https://goo.gl/maps/Df9hYoAmswQ2) made me realise why it's such a good idea to avoid that time.  The traffic is busy, but the quite exceptional level of cyclist stupidity, verging on suicidal recklessness sometimes, puts me right off.

It's very difficult to avoid Queenstown Road, because it filters the traffic towards Chelsea Bridge, the only sensible alternatives for me are Albert Bridge or Battersea Bridge, and the roads leading to those are even worse.  When you've got a dozen cyclists around you at a traffic light, half of which launch themselves off before the lights have actually gone green, assuming that they actually stopped prior to the stop line anyway, and then proceed to overtake the bus trying to pull away (sensibly, clearly and legally, unlike most of the cyclists), make the commute unpleasantly frustrating and occasionally dangerous.

That road is so much nicer, if I can get to it before 7am.  It's starting to get busy then, but there are probably only 2 or 3 other cyclists at each junction, and they mostly behave legally and safely.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 22 September, 2016, 09:56:00 am
Horribly drizzly this morning, the roads were like glass and lots of oil/diesel about, a pretty nervous one.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 22 September, 2016, 10:06:06 am
Brompton this morning, wet and traffic was badly snarled up at west end of princes street. Lots of frustration building up there.
Was approaching the tram lines at the other end of princes street, very slippy on the tarmac and was really nervous as a bus was sitting right on back wheel.   I aborted crossing the rails and veered off up towards st Andrews square to let the bus driving dickhead go past.

Usually LRT buses are pretty good, but that was bad driving this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 22 September, 2016, 12:34:36 pm
Anyone know if the female cyclist hit at Chelsea Bridge is ok? I saw a bloody helmet on the roadside and the red car over the bike :( This was yesterday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 22 September, 2016, 02:12:51 pm
Quote from: TigaSefi on 22 September, 2016, 12:34:36 pm
Anyone know if the female cyclist hit at Chelsea Bridge is ok? I saw a bloody helmet on the roadside and the red car over the bike :( This was yesterday.

A quick check for this sort of thing, is the LFGSS sub-forum: "Rider Down" (https://www.lfgss.com/microcosms/534/), and hope that the "LFGSS" at the top of the page is not black, which indicates a fatality.
(LFGSS = London Fixed Gear and Single Speed forum).

That points to minimal information from the Evening Standard (http://www.standard.co.uk/news/crime/chelsea-crash-cyclist-seriously-injured-after-being-hit-by-car-in-west-london-a3350701.html).

Summary: A collision involving a car and a cyclist. Cyclist suffered serious injuries and was taken to hospital as a priority.  The driver of the car stopped at the scene and nobody has been arrested.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 22 September, 2016, 03:33:09 pm
Quote from: TimO on 22 September, 2016, 02:12:51 pm
Quote from: TigaSefi on 22 September, 2016, 12:34:36 pm
Anyone know if the female cyclist hit at Chelsea Bridge is ok? I saw a bloody helmet on the roadside and the red car over the bike :( This was yesterday.

A quick check for this sort of thing, is the LFGSS sub-forum: "Rider Down" (https://www.lfgss.com/microcosms/534/), and hope that the "LFGSS" at the top of the page is not black, which indicates a fatality.
(LFGSS = London Fixed Gear and Single Speed forum).

That points to minimal information from the Evening Standard (http://www.standard.co.uk/news/crime/chelsea-crash-cyclist-seriously-injured-after-being-hit-by-car-in-west-london-a3350701.html).

Summary: A collision involving a car and a cyclist. Cyclist suffered serious injuries and was taken to hospital as a priority.  The driver of the car stopped at the scene and nobody has been arrested.

Thanks Tim, that's all I managed to find as well. I hope she recovers. Odd spot to have an accident as the blue lane there is massive and there really shouldn't be any interaction between car and bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 22 September, 2016, 08:20:16 pm
Well that was the last workbound commute without "proper" lamps on the front.  Roll on March. *sigh*

Weird fuzzy sort of a rainbow out by Ampney Crucis, looked like a coloured tube of cloud rather than the usual solid bands of colour.  Nice but odd.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 22 September, 2016, 11:02:36 pm
My previous 2 evening commutes
(https://c6.staticflickr.com/9/8377/29236039693_3a8c1eaf4f_n.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/Lxum2T)Evening commute (https://flic.kr/p/Lxum2T) by sg310 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/24775321@N02/), on Flickr

(https://c4.staticflickr.com/9/8559/29862438755_8c206331a1_n.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/MuQNDH)Evening commute and a fish supper (https://flic.kr/p/MuQNDH) by sg310 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/24775321@N02/), on Flickr
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 23 September, 2016, 09:34:07 am
Quote from: TigaSefi on 22 September, 2016, 03:33:09 pm
... Odd spot to have an accident as the blue lane there is massive and there really shouldn't be any interaction between car and bike.

Yes, I go over that bridge twice a day, and it's not a location that I generally worry about to any significant degree.  There's some risk of a car cutting left across the path of a cyclist, going both North and South, but it would be a particularly gratuitously stupid car driver that did it.

Southbound, in the evenings, motorcyclists, and to a lesser degree other motor vehicles, abuse the advanced stop line area, but again not significantly worse than many other similar locations.  I very rarely travel East-West across that junction, so I'm less qualified to comment upon cycling in those directions, other than to say that I doubt they differ too much in risk.

Whereabouts did you see the vehicles?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 23 September, 2016, 09:44:09 am
Quote from: TimO on 23 September, 2016, 09:34:07 am
Quote from: TigaSefi on 22 September, 2016, 03:33:09 pm
... Odd spot to have an accident as the blue lane there is massive and there really shouldn't be any interaction between car and bike.

Yes, I go over that bridge twice a day, and it's not a location that I generally worry about to any significant degree.  There's some risk of a car cutting left across the path of a cyclist, going both North and South, but it would be a particularly gratuitously stupid car driver that did it.

Southbound, in the evenings, motorcyclists, and to a lesser degree other motor vehicles, abuse the advanced stop line area, but again not significantly worse than many other similar locations.  I very rarely travel East-West across that junction, so I'm less qualified to comment upon cycling in those directions, other than to say that I doubt they differ too much in risk.

Whereabouts did you see the vehicles?

Hey Tim… I was coming along embankment towards Chelsea bridge and the accident was on the other side if you were going to Vauxhall bridge/Millbank after Chelsea bridge junction. So the bike was laid stricken entirely on the blue cycle lane with the helmet on the pavement (probably put there by the police/ambulance people) and the car (aygo type of car) had its left hand front wheel on the back wheel of the bike and pretty much the entire bumper over the rest of the bike also in the blue lane. Very odd.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tippers_kiwi on 23 September, 2016, 02:14:51 pm
Last night on the commute home I got to the Lights at the eastern end of Witham and stopped at the red, it had changed to red about 5 seconds before. Some guy on his shinny new specialized Hybrid came steaming through the wrong lane right through the red light and on through the intersection......I couldn't quite believe how idiotic it was and I must admit for a second I was hoping a car would come out of nowhere and give him a scare.

It actually pissed me off seeing that, 30 seconds later I was on my way. I caught up to him and passed him on the first hill, I decided not to say anything, I can't be bothered with agro on my nice country side commute. He seemed to decide that me passing him meant it was a race and shortly after he shot past me again  :facepalm:, I let him pull away a bit and just held back to leave a nice gap and was happy when our paths split and got home back to chilled.

I really don't get why you would shoot across an intersection which is essentially the start/end of a slip road onto a busy dual carriage way  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 23 September, 2016, 06:19:54 pm
First commute since the touring holiday for me and it was slow. I'm not surprised since I was on early shift and I'm usually not on form at (or before) audax o'clock.
It was rather cold and I stopped after a few hundred metres to put a wind-proof top on. This was in addition to the base-layer, SS and LS shirts, arm and leg-warmers. Coming home I was down to the base-layer and SS top.
This leg was much quicker (a couple of Strava PRs) and I would have gone even faster if there hadn't been as many cars.
Another early start tomorrow and Sunday: 06.00 and 05.45 respectively and I'll be riding. Ulp.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 23 September, 2016, 08:13:24 pm
Quote
Hi, in January 2014 I sent you a message expressing my thanks for one of your driver's excellent and professional driving when we shared a road as I cycled to work on the B1228 one morning. This morning, at more or less the same spot, I was once again overtaken by a Potter Logistics HGV, the driver of which demonstrated the same excellence and professionalism - which made me think a little.
I wondered if you could pass along a message to the drivers on that route, in case they were wondering why the fat ginger bird on the sturdy hybrid bike is always grinning like a loon, whatever the weather. There are two reasons. Firstly, riding a bike is jolly good fun and generally makes me smile, although (it must be said) not always on a Friday morning. Secondly, every single time I spot the yellow livery I have reason to grin because I've never experienced anything other than excellence and professionalism from your drivers. As a cyclist, that is very cheering indeed. Thank you!
Posted on their facebook page today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 24 September, 2016, 12:44:27 am
Keep that up and they'll be sending you some free, erm, logistics.   :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 24 September, 2016, 08:09:10 pm
I only saw 2 other cyclists this morning. One of them had 2 very bright front lights but nothing on the rear  :facepalm:. Not a set-up that I would use...............
Going in was OK; a little warmer than yesterday but a definite wind from the south which meant that it was in my face for most of the ride.
Coming home was very traffic intensive again. This time I think it was shoppers around Cheadle, rat-runners in Chorlton(CH) and Utd fans heading back to Surrey around Stretford.
Another early start (and a 10 hour shift) tomorrow so I'm off to bed soon  :(.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jsabine on 25 September, 2016, 03:27:46 am
Quote from: Andrew Br on 24 September, 2016, 08:09:10 pm
One of them had 2 very bright front lights but nothing on the rear  :facepalm:. Not a set-up that I would use...............

It's probably more sensible than only running a rear light - you're more at risk from people pulling out (or across) in front of you at junctions than you are from being hit from behind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 25 September, 2016, 09:27:58 am
Quote from: jsabine on 25 September, 2016, 03:27:46 am
Quote from: Andrew Br on 24 September, 2016, 08:09:10 pm
One of them had 2 very bright front lights but nothing on the rear  :facepalm:. Not a set-up that I would use...............

It's probably more sensible than only running a rear light - you're more at risk from people pulling out (or across) in front of you at junctions than you are from being hit from behind.
Depends on the nature of your commute. Mine is better than 95% out of town with very few junctions to worry about. The risk of getting clouted from behind, especially in the shadier tree lined sections, is, or at least feels, higher than that noted above.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 26 September, 2016, 08:28:04 am
I rather miss my daily commute.
Just seen this on Twitter.  That would have been fun.  :D
https://twitter.com/BhamUpdates/status/780298286242684928?s=09
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 26 September, 2016, 09:31:06 am
Why's it all red?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 26 September, 2016, 09:57:49 am
Quote from: spindrift on 26 September, 2016, 09:31:06 am
Why's it all red?

It's probably not.  The tree also looks redder than it should.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 26 September, 2016, 03:18:36 pm
Quote from: Basil on 26 September, 2016, 08:28:04 am
I rather miss my daily commute.
Just seen this on Twitter.  That would have been fun.  :D
https://twitter.com/BhamUpdates/status/780298286242684928?s=09

And here's me confined to the house with a stupid injury...   :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 26 September, 2016, 07:51:58 pm
Quote from: Basil on 26 September, 2016, 09:57:49 am
Quote from: spindrift on 26 September, 2016, 09:31:06 am
Why's it all red?

It's probably not.  The tree also looks redder than it should.
Could be mud. Looks a similar colour to monsoon floods in India.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 27 September, 2016, 08:30:38 am
Took a lot to get going this morning, legs like lead. At the parkway I thought a motorist turning right was simply going to drive straight through the oncoming three cyclists, a fellow commuter described him a bit special, which was far nicer than what I muttered.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: seraphina on 27 September, 2016, 09:14:09 am
First ride in ages without a trailer, and lovely weather too. A bit cooler, so not getting sweaty, and nice and quick as I was earlier and missed the level crossing hold up.

Conkers are slippery little bastards, aren't they?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 27 September, 2016, 10:33:58 am
Wasn't super thrilled at getting up and leaving the house in the dark but I do love riding through the dawn. Everything is shades of grey as the light gradually increases then all of a sudden you can see in colour.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 27 September, 2016, 07:17:34 pm
Blustery.

Wet and blustery headwind on the way in.
Dry and blustery side / tailwind home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 27 September, 2016, 11:29:23 pm
I took it slowly in both directions today, mainly because i counldn't be arsed.
I got drizzled on this afternoon but coming home tonight was dry and a bit cold.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 28 September, 2016, 08:16:08 am
Murphy's law states that when you've got lurgy is the day you time it right to catch the street-sweeper. Made a big effort to catch on the back of it up the rise on Church Road but hitting 25mph my heart felt like it was ready to explode and I was just in the turbulent air but couldn't close the gap, spent the rest of the ride paying for that bit of stupidity.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 28 September, 2016, 08:40:39 am
Summer is over. I've started wearing my Marmite winter jacket in the mornings  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ruthie on 28 September, 2016, 08:47:33 am
Quote from: Pingu on 28 September, 2016, 08:40:39 am
Summer is over. I've started wearing my Marmite winter jacket in the mornings  :(

Great!  You get to wear your Marmite jacket  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 28 September, 2016, 08:49:20 am
Quote from: Ruthie on 28 September, 2016, 08:47:33 am
Quote from: Pingu on 28 September, 2016, 08:40:39 am
Summer is over. I've started wearing my Marmite winter jacket in the mornings  :(

Great!  You get to wear your Marmite jacket  :thumbsup:

\o/  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jakob W on 28 September, 2016, 05:40:40 pm
Had a fast (if not *especially* close) pass by some lads in a jeep; five minutes later they were behind me again on a narrow uphill bit on a one-way street. I was about to pull over to let them pass, until the revving and beeping started. I stopped and (admittedly not expecting a Damascene conversion) remonstrated with them; got nothing but grief and a close pass again as they took off. I wouldn't have taken it any further, but a quick check of the DVLA database revealed the vehicle was untaxed; a quick call to 101 later, and I've an appointment on Monday at the police station to give a statement. Hopefully they'll get picked up on the tax at least...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 29 September, 2016, 09:15:32 am
Still lurgified but a couple of flu-plus made a difference and the tailwind helped. Kudos to the P.P O'Conner's driver behind me in Irlam who hung well back and seemed to figure out that I was riding the centre line in order to avoid the diesel that his mate was leaving all up Fairhills Road, if he carried on losing it at that rate he wasn't going to get far.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 30 September, 2016, 12:33:38 am
It wasn't great in either direction today.
Going down to the Kings Road lights from Stretford Metro station I was nearly taken out by a Range-Rover Evoque (rhymes with cock ?). It overtook in the outside lane and then turned left into Kings Road in front of me. Since I was doing 25mph*, I don't know what its speed must have been doing but it was certainly well in excess of the limit and the manoeuvre must have saved the driver all of 5 seconds.

Coming home I got rained on. A lot.
I really must put a front mud-guard on the Disco. I also need to get the Rohloff bike road worthy again to give it a last chance.


*It's downhill.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 30 September, 2016, 12:59:24 am
Very windy today, which made getting to work hard but was fun coming home. I was racing the front of a squall for a large section of the ride home and beating it, until the rear tyre deflated. Looks like following the hedge trimmer on Tuesday finally caught up with me. Luckily the thorn got me close to a bus shelter so I at least got to change it in the dry.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 30 September, 2016, 10:45:47 am
Fair do's to the handcyclist lowdown darksider passing through Shrivenham this morning - you were shifting... :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 30 September, 2016, 01:05:12 pm
On the way home last night night came within a whisker of being toast as a tipper came alongside and then turned left, involved the full oh shit, oh shit and jump the pavement thing.

This morning an Audiout seemed to be surprised that neither myself or the approaching traffic island dematerialised as he attempted his overtake, Friday has been a long time coming this week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 01 October, 2016, 02:41:04 pm
Quote from: Pingu on 28 September, 2016, 08:40:39 am
Summer is over. I've started wearing my Marmite winter jacket in the mornings  :(

It hasn't quite got as far as jacket weather for me, but I did switch to a long sleeved, summer weight, YACF jersey and 3/4 length shorts last week.   That meant I got a mixture of a little brisk in the morning, and moderately sweaty on the way home, in the (sometimes) sunny afternoon.

I fear it's only a few weeks before I will need the full length cycling tights. :-\ :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 02 October, 2016, 12:47:29 am
The last couple of days I've taken it easy in both directions, mainly because I've felt quite tired. In addition, this evening I was running on empty courtesy of a literally and figuratively "heavy" shift.
I opted for a heavier LS top and leg-warmers going in and it was a good decision.
Coming home it was very chilly out so I put it away I donned a windproof jacket as well.
It'll soon be time for windproof gloves and a hat rather than a cap.

Today's commute was 4 of 4. I'm off tomorrow.
Next week I have Mon-Wed as work days then it goes rest-work-rest-work-rest. I'm trying to get a couple of the rest days put together by changing shifts.
No luck so far.

ETA: I was wrong. That was 5 of 5 bike commutes.
I always get a great feeling of satisfaction when I've used the bike to get to work on 5 consecutive days even if it's only a 21 mile round trip.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: nikki on 02 October, 2016, 09:16:32 am
Cycling back from Wolverhampton yesterday I got stopped by the local traffic authority bods somewhere in the region of Smethwick. They were doing a survey to assess what impact the canal towpath resurfacing works had done to improve use of the route (National Cycle Routes 5 and 81)

(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 02 October, 2016, 11:49:23 am
My god!  Your shoes stuck to the tarmac?!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: nikki on 02 October, 2016, 12:39:45 pm
Tarmac?
Tarmac?!
Ha!


That's not how resurfacing works around here  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 02 October, 2016, 01:01:49 pm
The solution is clear: you need longer socks. And then a bigger washing machine!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonBuoy on 03 October, 2016, 07:06:40 am
4 degC out there this morning.  I am trying to remember where I hid my winter commuting kit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 03 October, 2016, 08:16:29 am
Yes, I had to go back upstairs and hunt out a lightweight base layer this morning, definitely the right decision, brrrr....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SoreTween on 03 October, 2016, 09:31:28 am
Quote from: JonBuoy on 03 October, 2016, 07:06:40 am
4 degC out there this morning.  I am trying to remember where I hid my winter commuting kit.
Me too. 12 whole minutes my ride in yet my hands were so cold I struggled with my lock which is far from fiddly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris N on 03 October, 2016, 09:59:04 am
Beautiful flash of sunrise out there today. 8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 03 October, 2016, 10:02:31 am
Cold here in Aberdeen.

First time I've seen the fields and verges white with frost this Autumn.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 03 October, 2016, 01:28:13 pm
A couple of frosty patches here in mid-Beds too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 03 October, 2016, 02:14:01 pm
First day back after two weeks holiday.

1) it was bloody cold - full finger gloves were required.

2) what happened to my legs - power was lacking

3) leaving an hour earlier means there is much fewer cars on the road as I miss the school run.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 03 October, 2016, 02:52:34 pm
Quote from: matthew on 03 October, 2016, 02:14:01 pm
First day back after two weeks holiday.

1) it was bloody cold - full finger gloves were required.

2) what happened to my legs - power was lacking

3) leaving an hour earlier means there is much fewer cars on the road as I miss the school run.

4 degrees in Chertsey.  Had thought about the rest of me but so wished I'd put overshoes on.  Discovered in Roehampton that the size of vehicle to do the school run is in inverse proportion to the child being dropped off.  So gave a big thumbs up to the mum who was riding along the cyclepath escorting her (I'm guessing) 5 year old pedalling along in good style.  She was dead chuffed with the recognition.

First London commute since (I think late April) due to client commitments elsewhere.  Looking forward to a rare gentle tailwind home. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jakob W on 03 October, 2016, 04:16:11 pm
Quote from: Jakob W on 28 September, 2016, 05:40:40 pm
[...] I've an appointment on Monday at the police station to give a statement. Hopefully they'll get picked up on the tax at least...

Nice police officer basically said 'if you go for charges then it becomes your word against theirs, and unless you really felt threatened there's not that much we can do'; however, it looks like the registered keeper of the vehicle has been a norty boy; no tax, insurance, or licence, so they've set a flag and if he passes an ANPR checkpoint in the West Mids he should have his car stopped and seized. :thumbsup: Works for me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 03 October, 2016, 08:56:45 pm
Starting getting cocky on the comedy-off-road on the way home. Nearly went arse over tit into a muddy puddle  ::-)  :o

I love cycling.  :thumbsup: ;D :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 03 October, 2016, 09:37:39 pm
I got stuck in late tonight and it was proper dark by the time I got home. Colder too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 03 October, 2016, 10:36:52 pm
It was getting Michael Parkinson again this evening.  Checked the records, first London commute since 1 June
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 04 October, 2016, 12:38:12 am
Nice and sunny going in the afternoon and really quite cold coming home.
I know it's Monday but it did seem very quiet both on the roads and in the bars. I'm not complaining; the lack of traffic meant that the lights changed very quickly for me.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 04 October, 2016, 08:36:28 am
Something felt a bit strange going home last night, not shifting quite right, but didn't think too much of it since most of the drivetrain on the commuter stands in need of replacement. Accidentally selected big/big this morning due to incompetence and laziness and the mech very nearly disappeared into the wheel so had to spend twenty minutes straightening that out and indexing the gears.

Other than that a bit of an annoying headwind but another glorious sunrise.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 04 October, 2016, 08:39:00 am
Nippy again this morning.

Though the bike felt rather better than last night when I had 25l of potting compost bungied onto the rear rack.  ::-) I must check the rear wheel over as it felt rather odd in a couple of corners.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 04 October, 2016, 06:34:32 pm
Tail wind on the way home this evening, which is unusual as I live almost due west of where I work.
Cars being very polite on the overtaking as well.
And five other cyclists, which is a huge number round here. Three going into town and two going my direction, both of which I managed to overtake.
But the long legs and coat will have to come out. Definitely nippy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 05 October, 2016, 08:32:47 am
Enough of a tailwind last night to enable a 40kph cruise whilst chatting to the guy from Warrington Road Club  8) Paid for it this morning though
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 05 October, 2016, 01:44:55 pm
Block headwinds this am. The flags by Tower Bridge are strongly buffeting in the right way at the moment. Will they at 5pm? will they fuck!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 06 October, 2016, 12:18:41 am
Hard work for me riding in this afternoon. I even used the small front ring at times.
Coming home was a bit easier but not as easy as I'd hoped. Still, I suppose that's always the case with wind.

Day off tomorrow. I'm hoping to go for a bike ride.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 06 October, 2016, 08:31:55 am
A bit rapid last night with the wind that Andrew Br was slogging into on my back, strong enough that I was easily keeping pace alongside a motorbike all the way to Urmston.
Nice and steady this morning, just cruising along.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 06 October, 2016, 12:20:53 pm
Hopefully tonight, a bunch of students SHALL not cross a cycle highway red light man crossing and cause me to smash into them at 20mph. They seemed perplexed that I shouted at them rather loudly about you know... stopping at a red light. They were following each other with their earphones and eyes glued to the phones!  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 06 October, 2016, 04:00:26 pm
Maybe next time try braking as well as shouting?  It's hardly unexpected student behaviour.

I hope nobody was hurt.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HeltorChasca on 06 October, 2016, 06:25:53 pm
I was gifted a roe buck.

Such a beautiful animal lying in the road after an early morning collision. It just seemed plain wrong that all these people in their tin boxes, wearing their blinkers, were just driving round him on their way to wherever. Eventually someone was going to make an awful mess of an awesome animal.

I stopped and picked him up. Quite a journey: school run, work and then home. From a 16kg buck I managed to process and keep 7kg of very nice, undamaged venison. A good yield considering. Most of the lights, rib cage and skull have been gifted straight back to the woods. Unfortunately he'd already cast his horns so out of luck for me.

I'm exhausted.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 07 October, 2016, 08:32:15 am
15 mins late leaving last night so that put me in the traffic carnage which kind of ruined what was a massive tailwind.

Are we sure it's Friday today? Quite surprised I'd got some legs left at the end of the week, probably just the absence of headwind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 07 October, 2016, 09:01:06 am
Quote from: Kim on 06 October, 2016, 04:00:26 pm
Maybe next time try braking as well as shouting?  It's hardly unexpected student behaviour.

I hope nobody was hurt.

I did brake and my back wheel skidded for yards - unfortunately bikes don't stop on a sixpence. Bikes were coming opposite way too so it wasn't like i was solo. I think they though it was one way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 07 October, 2016, 01:20:43 pm
Quote from: HeltorChasca on 06 October, 2016, 06:25:53 pm
I was gifted a roe buck.
...

Wow. I would probably have just gone around.

Amazing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 07 October, 2016, 07:31:50 pm
I got knocked off the bike on the way home this evening.
Broad daylight.
Driver decided that driving through me was the easiest way to negotiate a roundabout.
I had been in primary position in order to discourage any creative undertaking / overtaking.
I lay there unable to get up because the bike was on top of my left leg, and the car was on top of my rear wheel.
I was in a state of compression á velo.
Bollox, I thought. That’s going to be a new wheel. And aggro. It’s never going to be easy to convince those who don’t know, that a bicycle wheel can cost north of £350.00
- Hand built, Large flange Goldtec track hub on Velocity V deep rim.
The driver  got out of the car and came around - Sowwy I didn’t see you.
I was right in front of you as I have been for the last three or four minutes, while we’ve been queuing for the roundabout. No?
I’m sowwy.
Can you get your car off my bike, so that I can get up, please.
They did, and I did.
I spun the rear wheel expecting it to stop, but no. It just carried on turning.
I guess those ozzie rims I have, are much tougher than I expected.
Is your bike alright ?- they asked
Yeah
I’m sowwy, I didn’t see you.
It seemed pointless to pursue this any further - Of course they didn’t see me - I was in front of them and they was looking to their right whilst driving forward..
I left them, sitting in traffic.
Twat.

The remainder of my journey home was relatively uneventful, albeit slightly fuelled by the product of my adrenal gland.
Oh. And I was rear-ended by another cyclist,  as I stood waiting for the south lift in the Greenwich foot tunnel.
Twat 2.
I’m expecting some left hip / buttock bruisage tomorrow - thanks to twat1.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 07 October, 2016, 07:51:16 pm
Strewth. Are you sure you're (obv I mean the bike) OK ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 07 October, 2016, 07:59:07 pm
Quote from: hatler on 07 October, 2016, 07:51:16 pm
Strewth. Are you sure you're (obv I mean the bike) OK ?
Yeah, thanks for asking, Rob. I think I'll be fine - all bar some light bruising.
The annoying thing is that what I'd like right now, more than anything else,  is a soak in a hot bath - I'm currently having my bathroom re-fitted and the only functioning item in there is a lavvy pan.
I'm genuinely surprised that the wheel tolerated having a Renault Clio parked on top of it with no adverse  effect.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 07 October, 2016, 08:03:42 pm
Bummer. Bed and a hot water bottle ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 07 October, 2016, 08:15:01 pm
Might have to be.
After some restorative Sauvignon Blanc  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 07 October, 2016, 09:07:21 pm
That sounds resoundingly pants.  Hope the sauvignon blanc hits the spot!

My commute (the first few miles along the FNRttC route to Hull - a very different prospect at commuter times and jolly unfriendly compared with at midnight) was a good 10 minutes slower than usual.  That's what happens when you use a stokerless tandem, I guess :)  Handful of shit close passes, only one of which made me swear out loud.  Several cheer-restoring friendly decent overtakes.  One smile-inducing Potter spotting, oncoming. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 08 October, 2016, 01:23:39 pm
Driver pulled across me at a junction, held her hands up as apology then when I stopped at my house as I opened the gate she said "I'm really sorry, you must have been in my blind spot!" so I said "That's ok" and my neighbour chipped in and said "All good, nobody hurt" which was nice. So 1 numpty, no yelling or swearing and a nice apology.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 09 October, 2016, 11:23:24 pm
Sorry to hear about your being knocked off Jurek; hope you're recovering OK.

Today's commute felt a litle easier than recent ones. I've actually felt quite wiped out just recently so it's nice to feel a little better (and to have gone faster).
I can't remember the last time I drove to work which is a nice thought. I start early shifts next week (off tomorrow) so let's see how the resolve is then ...........

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 10 October, 2016, 02:33:09 pm
Nothing in the legs today, just couldn't get going, having a dose C'tBA at the moment.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 10 October, 2016, 06:26:56 pm
I used my bike pump at home last night, and forgot to put it back onto the bike, so for the first time in months I had no pump. Of course that meant that I got a puncture on the way home ::-)

Ended up walking half a mile before another commuter stopped and lent me a pump :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 10 October, 2016, 06:57:09 pm
I've been caught out like that before.
So now, 3 bags = 3 pumps.
Branes are allocated  other things to remember.
Or not.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 10 October, 2016, 07:05:17 pm
Better: 3 bags = 4 pumps, so you don't remove a pump from your bike to pump up tyres at home.  The nth can be a track pump or compressor or something, saving effort and further discouraging borrowing of bike pumps.

Which will work just fine until $reasons.  And then you'll cock it up anyway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 10 October, 2016, 07:12:20 pm
Indeed.
You've just described the set up here.
How could I forget (I blame teh brane being busy remembering other things) my trusty track pump - making it one on the floor and three in the bags.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 10 October, 2016, 07:20:35 pm
I'm currently on 3 bikes, 3 pumps plus a track pump at home. Which is fine until I decide not to get the track pump out but use the road morph off the bike instead. :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 10 October, 2016, 07:28:55 pm
There's your mistake.
Schoolboy error   ;D.
What do you mean ' Get the track pump out'?
Isn't it always out?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 10 October, 2016, 07:57:49 pm
Well I didn't exactly have PostAudaxHeroLegsTM after yesterday's 80 miles but the ride home from work today wasn't too painful. The first mile or so I was a bit twingy but it eased off once I got warmed up.

Wasn't really any slower overall compared to usual which was nice. Got caught out by a heavyish shower for a couple miles, that were a bit cold.

Now currently trying to eat anything I can get my hands on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Joe.B on 10 October, 2016, 08:34:41 pm
Off work today so did the school run on the tandem. It was raining so the rest of Gosforth decided it was better to drive. The queues for the lights were so long that I recon many of the cars managed to do 300yards in the time it took me to do my 2 mile round trip :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 11 October, 2016, 08:33:10 am
Today something entirely amazing happened on my commute, the like of which I have not seen in my >30 years of commuting. Along Stratford High Street, I was in a group of seven cyclists, stopped at a red light. While historically unusual, these days it is quite common, it wasn't that. What it was, I was the only bloke, the six others were female. Absolutely amazeballs. I got talking to one a bit later, who was riding quite sensibly and lively, she was in her 20s, apparently it was the 2012 Olympics that got her into it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: seraphina on 11 October, 2016, 09:00:34 am
First time commuting by bike in a fortnight and someone appears to have replaced Cambridgeshire with an Artic wasteland. I was in full winter mufti and I was frozen :hand:

Still, work have installed a new shower which appears to be powered by a small nuclear reactor and has enough pressure to push the showerhead out of the mouting bracket at full tilt ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 11 October, 2016, 09:06:32 am
Yesterday afternoon was the first time since March that I've had to wear gloves on the homeward commute.

This morning saw the second frost of the season
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 11 October, 2016, 05:10:42 pm
An early commute for me (I left at 05.30) and, at the last minute, I decided to wear a hat rather than a cap. My ears were very grateful ! The coldest part of the journey was on the way into Cheadle over the Mersey flood plain. Brrr.

Coming home it had started raining but that cleared up after a while.
Another cyclist became very irritating. I overtook him at some lights because I managed to keep rolling and he was slow to clip in.
He came past a little while later looking like he was going for it. Fine, I was just heading home so I let him get on with it. After 50 metres, he slowed down, I caught him up and overtook. A minute or so later he came past again and slowed down. Again ............
We both stopped at the next red light and again I out accelerated him. He came past soon after and this time I eased off and stayed behind him. Thankfully he turned off at Parrs Wood.

Nobody had told me it was "Drive like a Muppet Day" in ChorltonCH.
The 1st driver did a U-turn, pulling out right in front of me. Thankfully, I'd anticipated what was going to happen so I was able to stop next to his window and, when he finally (and, presumably, for the 1st time) looked in my direction, I shouted "Boo". I'd been tempted to roll my front wheel into his door but decided that was too childish  ;).
Soon after another driver pulled out from a turning on my right. I think she only realised that I was there when I banged on the off-side window of the car. That required more bike handling since I was very close when she went for it.
Perhaps I should have had a very bright flashing light on the front of the bike so that I was more visible. Oh, wait a minute ........

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 11 October, 2016, 07:42:10 pm
Catastrophic SPD-SL cleat failure under power on the ride home.

Just started the modest climb, and left foot released suddenly resulting in whacked shin and Foul Language.
Front lip of the cleat had sheared off, so nothing left to hook under front part of pedal.

Careful 16k limp-home ride and a new set of cleats installed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 12 October, 2016, 08:28:00 am
A bit of a drag today into an annoying headwind. I managed to annoy a van driver by going for a sprint for the lights at Seymour Grove, which went red so I stopped to put a lung a back in, and missed the fact that they changed immediately to green, by the time I'd noticed they were red again  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Afasoas on 12 October, 2016, 09:56:02 am
Third consecutive day on the cycle-commute. It's tempting to try and go for the full house this week, even if I still don't have my legs back.

No real knobbish driving until this morning either. Ford Ka driver deemed I didn't deserve a space in traffic queuing to pass a Luton van parked in the road. Certain expletives were muttered quietly under my breath.

I've struggled to maintain my average speed for the last couple of days (I put it down to not being able to cycle in at all last week due to a conference) but with legs that felt tired, I smashed it today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 12 October, 2016, 01:37:03 pm
No today, but yesterday, when it was necessary to wear gloves.  Of course, I couldn't find the thin gloves I'd normally wear, so the thicker ones resulted in sweaty hands by the time I arrived at work.

For your elucidation, my commute at 100 times normal speed which is an effective speed a smidgen under Mach 2.  ;D

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/Commute_20161011_Still.jpg)
YouTube (https://youtu.be/0k5hb6iyqYE)

It's nice to see how the sky lightens up between 6-20, when I left, and 7-15, when I arrived.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 13 October, 2016, 12:30:14 pm
Very lazy this morning, I'm suffering with nightmares at the minute and the lack of sleep is taking a toll on my enthusiasm in the mornings, by the afternoon its all back to rights, mind you the recent stonking tailwinds for the return help in that regard, just a shame the roads are cluttered with all these metal boxes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 13 October, 2016, 01:12:54 pm
Looked like at least one down on CS2 outside London Hospital this morning, from the number and selection of vehicles in attendance at least the cyclist was stretched off in an ambulance, possibly others, my best guess was involved a pedestrian. Hope all are ok, but following on from the cycle-cycle vid yesterday, this was inevitable too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 13 October, 2016, 05:22:30 pm
I don't seem to be finding the same tail-winds as you Si; head-wind in both directions (or so it seems) atm.
I know that I go less well in the mornings but I'm finding it hard coming home in the afternoon. I had a slump last week and then it picked up for a couple of days but it seems to be slumping again.

To liven things up on the way home this pm, I took the off-road route from ChorltonCH; Hawthorne Lane and a bit of the TPT before I got onto the bit to Sandy Lane which isn't suitable for slick tyres. Luckily nothing didn't happen but I'd unclipped for the slippy, cambered section where nothing happened last time I rode it.

Day off tomorrow but I'll be bike commuting on Saturday and Sunday (06.00 start on Saturday  :hand:) since the car is having a new clutch fitted, a legacy* of my attempts to get it out of a mud filled ditch on the RallyWalesGB last year..
For the 05.30 starts** Tue-Thu next week I'll almost certainly be driving***.

*No pun intended.
** They seem to have blind-sided everyone with that start time.
*** Unless I drink really deeply from the fountain of HTFU.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 14 October, 2016, 09:01:12 am
Quote from: Andrew Br on 13 October, 2016, 05:22:30 pm
I don't seem to be finding the same tail-winds as you Si; head-wind in both directions (or so it seems) atm.

The winds have been swinging between SE and NE lately, with your direction that's pretty pants as a general crosswind and quite possibly a headwind both ways, especially if it's being funneled by the urban landscape, which for me it is as both Kings Road and Stretford to Flixton become wind tunnels.

Quote from: Andrew Br on 13 October, 2016, 05:22:30 pm
I had a slump last week and then it picked up for a couple of days but it seems to be slumping again.

Not trying to teach you to suck eggs but don't under estimate the cumulative fatigue effects of riding and working day after day, you'll learn to recognise the early symptoms and develop a coping mechanism, for me it's an extra hours sleep. Not chasing Strava segments helps  ;)

Last night filtering up through the traffic on Moss Lane I felt the back wheel step sideways and there was a massive bang from the car next to me, I'd flicked a stone up and it'd taken a rather large chunk of paint out of the door of the orange Lambo I was passing. A chat with the guy at the next lights and he was very decent about the whole thing, even thanked me for stopping.

At Stretford a guy on an illegal ebike who I'd passed on Kings Road nearly punted me into the traffic flow in the turn left filter lane with some of the craziest filtering I've seen in a long time before taking a so-late-it-must-be-red amber.

A steady uneventful ride in this morning, the note worthy bit being I extended it a bit to Chorlton since I had a green light on Edge Lane and the left hand turn into Kings Road is now lethal due to drifts of gravel from crap road repairs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 15 October, 2016, 07:30:41 pm
Quote from: Si S on 14 October, 2016, 09:01:12 am
Not trying to teach you to suck eggs but don't under estimate the cumulative fatigue effects of riding and working day after day, you'll learn to recognise the early symptoms and develop a coping mechanism, for me it's an extra hours sleep. Not chasing Strava segments helps  ;)


Wise words Si and something that I'm aware of since I know my job can be quite physical.
One problem with early start times is that I don't sleep well before them; I always seem to be aware that I need to get up soon........
Having said that, I was feeling tired on the late shifts when I can have a lie-in and feel no guilt.

Today's ride in started at ~04.30. I think I saw one other cyclist, the guy with 2 obnoxiously bright front lights and no rear  :facepalm:.
Other than that, 90% of the traffic seemed to compose of unoccupied mini-cabs going backwards and forwards. There were also several parked up en-route their drivers, presumably, waiting for fares. It did make me wonder how they can make a living at that game and it also made me worry about how long they'd been working. Through the night would be my guess and that might explain some of their road behaviours ............
Tachographs in Hackney and mini-cabs might be an interesting experiment.

Coming home was quite pleasant apart from the arse who pulled out across me on one of the downhill stretches. If he saw me and did it anyway, he shouldn't be driving. If he didn't see me, he shouldn't be driving. Luckily I'd anticipated what was likely to happen so I was already on the brakes.

It's a lie-in tomorrow (08.00 start) so I'll make the most of that. Day off Monday and then 05.30 starts Tue-Thu.
I'll be driving.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 16 October, 2016, 11:17:05 pm
A later (08.00) start today thank goodness.
Fewer mini cabs and no, as far as I could tell, other cycle commuters. I got passed by a couple of roadies approaching Cheadle but that was about it for cyclists. Quite a few dog walkers though.
Coming home I had a few "enthusiastic" bursts which hurt my legs but felt worthy.
I stopped off en-route to visit a couple of friends to see their recently run-over cat at home. It seems that Gregs will make a decent recovery even if it looks like he'll have lost the sight in one eye. Wired jaw and scuffed paw seem like they'll heal on their own (after the appropriate vetinary interventions). Gregs seemed to like the attention that Helen and I gave him before he drifted off to sleep again  :thumbsup:.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 17 October, 2016, 08:26:15 am
A bit tough today, first wet one for some time and my shoulders are somewhat sore.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 17 October, 2016, 09:05:11 am
I forgot to bring my towel to work. I used an old labcoat instead. It wasn't tremendously effective, but slightly better than drip-drying  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 17 October, 2016, 09:38:33 am
Damp to start but rapidly stopped raining to just leave wet roads.

Passed the peloton of school boys (12-15 of them) on the way in and the queue of slow moving traffic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 17 October, 2016, 10:56:14 am
Good sunny ride in today, had to stop and take off my lightweight jacket.

What is it with drivers who feel the need to 'undercut' mini roundabouts, on the wrong side of the road?  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 17 October, 2016, 12:09:42 pm
Had to meet my sister to give her phone that she forgot this weekend on Blackfriars Bridge. That cycle lane is JAMMED packed! So many people. Thankfully I don't have to use it any more!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JamieD on 17 October, 2016, 03:58:22 pm
Quote from: TigaSefi on 17 October, 2016, 12:09:42 pm
Had to meet my sister to give her phone that she forgot this weekend on Blackfriars Bridge. That cycle lane is JAMMED packed! So many people. Thankfully I don't have to use it any more!

Much better than it not being used. If it's shown that cycle lanes are at capacity there's all the more reason for more to be created.

It's annoying that you end up going a bit slower than you'd like but I'd rather have more people cycling at a slightly slower pace than it being just a few people willing to mix it up with traffic. Overall it's good for cycling (if not always great for individuals).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 18 October, 2016, 01:35:30 pm
A late one today due to waiting for tradesmen. As I came down Stretford Road there was quite a queue of traffic, at the front of it was a car buried in someones garden and another one that appeared to missing most it's front end, must have been one hell of an impact. The fire brigade had got all their toys out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 18 October, 2016, 03:21:38 pm
Quote from: TimO on 25 August, 2016, 08:26:48 pm
...  I found a webpage for TfL that lets me submit a road defect report, which I've done.  I'm not overly confident of anything happening, because it's not much of an issue for a car, but it's hard to avoid on a bicycle because of its width.

I did eventually get an email from TfL saying that they'd deal with it, and amazingly the weekend before last, it was adjusted with a new layer of tarmac that has removed the aggressive edge.  I keep on forgetting that I no longer have to carefully ensure I go over one of the less abrupt bits!

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/small.php?size=512&file=KleaRoad_20161018_JunctionRemediation.png) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/KleaRoad_20161018_JunctionRemediation.png)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 18 October, 2016, 03:33:57 pm
I appear to be on Quietway 15 for a short part of my commute.  This seems to have been done over the weekend, although further along there are just scrawls on the road, where it looks like further symbols need to be painted.  I think I'm only on it for a few hundred feet, so I don't think the nature of my commute is about to change dramatically !

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/small.php?size=512&file=vlcsnap-2016-10-17-21h17m34s192.png) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/vlcsnap-2016-10-17-21h17m34s192.png)

On Turk's Row, here (https://goo.gl/maps/MQ5ZQUpeKEG2), if you were wondering.

(I can't actually find any route details for Quietway 15, but that marking seems like suspicious evidence!)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 18 October, 2016, 08:10:29 pm
Loud crack as I rode slowly uphill, out of the saddle thankfully:

(https://c4.staticflickr.com/6/5616/29775544963_77d42da769_z.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 19 October, 2016, 11:03:02 am
^^That could of been a bit nasty

Late leaving last night so got share the miserable weather with my commuting buddy, it was hard work and a bit grim all round. Kit still wet this morning and the old legs a bit sore from pushing too hard into the wind, obviously all a bit much for my buddy as he's off sick today.

All a bit slippy this morning with the drifts of wet leaves, plenty of mulch about on the way up from Chorlton making it a choice between the Kings Road assault course or the chutney run  :-\


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 20 October, 2016, 08:37:27 am
Running out of go this week.

In other news it looks like the NHS' pool bike scheme has branched out as one these (http://www.fullycharged.com/Benelli-City-Link-Sport) has appeared in shed with their stickers on the locks. I wonder what it rides like.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HeltorChasca on 20 October, 2016, 10:09:26 am
On the school run there's an alley way that cuts through to the school. At one end there is a circa. 1940/50 sign that says, 'Cycling Prohibited'. It's an beautiful antique that has been vandalised several times and is just legible. It has 'charm'.

Scores of us march through the alley way in a slow procession to our place of academia. I tick along in the crowd on my Surly Big Dummy with my 7 year old on the back. I don't need to squeeze past or dismount. After all we only end up in another queue outside the school gates.

Today was a bit different. Another dad who is rarely on school run duty, marched past us all and stood under the said sign, hands on hips and eyeballed the sign theatrically. I could tell he wasn't going to actually say anything so I did: 'It's an advisory sign.' Says I.

A 'isn't , is, isn't, is, isn't' argument nearly ensued, but given that all the mums were walking past us greeting me cheerfully, this fat twat soon harrumphed off not getting the due reaction I think he expected.

His mother in law is very embarrassed. Twat.

Just wanted to get that off my chest. It's good to share.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SoreTween on 20 October, 2016, 11:10:31 pm
Another run down to Guildford for beers tonight. Half way there I became aware of a light casting my shadow on the road ahead. It went, it reappeared. It went.  Eventually I looked behind and found I had two, count them, two wheel suckers. 
Me. The captain of the klingon fleet. Providing air hole. Doesn't compute but feels like progress.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 21 October, 2016, 08:27:48 am
Really is getting nippy now, especially as the zip on my windproof gave up, bit disappointing really as the last one of the same lasted twice as long as the new improved 'pro' version  ::-) Ah well by the time I return from my hollibobs it'll full winter jacket time anyway I suspect*.

*this of course means that it'll be a gloriously warm November and I'll buy a new a windproof just in time for arctic weather to arrive
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 21 October, 2016, 09:20:25 am
Was behind a girl who was riding really close into parked cars. Wondered if I should say something, but didn't.  It was a really wide bit of road and there was no traffic pressing from behind.

This was in my mind.
http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-glasgow-west-37691400

Nice morning, nice commute
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 21 October, 2016, 03:53:09 pm
Quote from: Si S on 21 October, 2016, 08:27:48 am
Really is getting nippy now, ...
Hmmm.  Not so much here, yet,  in the bottom right hand corner of deepest darkest glocestererershire, more fresh than chilly.  Was definitely overdressed yesterday (bib longs, long sleeved jersey and gloves)  for the run in (0600) and it was even worse on the ride home.    However I did hear two barn owls (one directly over my head) and a cockerel kicking up a din as I rode past some cottages all of which made the fact that it was the work-bound leg less depressing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 22 October, 2016, 02:14:25 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 21 October, 2016, 03:53:09 pm
.. in the bottom right hand corner of deepest darkest glocestererershire, more fresh than chilly.  Was definitely overdressed yesterday (bib longs, long sleeved jersey and gloves)  for the run in (0600) and it was even worse on the ride home. ...
I'm having the same problem in That London.  The temperature variation between morning and evening, and day to day, means that I'm swapping between short sleeved and long sleeved, as well as summer and winter weight jerseys.  Long tights vs 3/4 length shorts isn't quite so bad, since my legs don't sweat like the upper half does!

I need to find my thin gloves.  On the occasional morning, the air has been cold enough to wear gloves rather than just mitts, but the only gloves I've found are too thick and I end up with sweaty hands when I've got to work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 24 October, 2016, 08:56:59 am
Today I found out what one of those noises was

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1gkbRPk7mWo/WA2-V80AE0I/AAAAAAAA7nk/WJSRTcubQKU5pJAeRVg7NuwTqkEnbAD5ACPcB/s640/IMG_20161024_073655.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 24 October, 2016, 10:35:25 am
Ouch. I hope your resulting dismount was controlled and the remainder of your commute not too far.

Today I was wondering where all the traffic was then I remembered it's half term.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 24 October, 2016, 08:43:14 pm
Beware, rude language below

(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 24 October, 2016, 09:52:19 pm
POTD!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 24 October, 2016, 09:54:44 pm
No traffic lights and hedge interactions on my commute today, but there was the first frost of the autumn on the verges, and some slightly unnerving shiny bits on the road. When the sun came out it was still quite warm though.

I also tightened up the chain on the fixed a bit too much, and now know that my chainset is slightly not-round. I think I'd better back it off a bit before the creaking becomes something worse.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 24 October, 2016, 10:53:26 pm
First commute on the Winter configured commuter bike.
This involves swapping out the wheels to Cheapo Shimano R500s with M+ tyres.

OOF! That was a bit of a change! It's added almost 10 mins to my 35k round-trip.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 25 October, 2016, 10:55:03 am
Cracking ride home yesterday. Hardly any wind, pleasant temperature.

If it weren't for my lights not quite being up to the job I could have kept going and going.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 25 October, 2016, 05:25:24 pm
Seems to be ladybird day in Norwich, fahsands of 'em.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 26 October, 2016, 08:41:03 am
Dark, murky, and damp. The sort of weather one would reasonably expect to see at 0700 on a late October morning. Murky enough to impair visibility, but not bad enough to make motons consider slowing down a bit and DIPPING THEIR FLAMING HEADLIGHTS >:( (not that many of them do, even when conditions really warrant it ::-))

Still warm enough for shorts thobut :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 26 October, 2016, 12:12:13 pm
Dark, murky and damp has been mentioned, and though I'm not cycling still, I'd caution chaps to be wary of sodden leaves on the road. We don't want: "Sodding leaves – skidded on them!"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 26 October, 2016, 07:01:22 pm
My competitive streak cut in this evening. Overtaking the guy on the hybrid just because it was a hybrid and he looked a little plump is a mistake when said chap is at least 20 years younger than me. Fortunately he was very good about it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 26 October, 2016, 07:15:35 pm
Something Going Down around Westfield (Stratford) this evening. From a distance I thought it was man down on CS2, but as I got closer it appeared that there were 2 van loads of police dogs, a LARGE number of policemen and a chopper overhead. Hope there's not anything that makes the news.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 26 October, 2016, 08:38:47 pm
 5000 Chelsea fans having to be contained in parkland instead of the narrow streets round Upton Park. It'll be like Braveheart.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 26 October, 2016, 08:40:30 pm
Went from work into Reading town centre to buy my niece's birthday present. Train back to Wokingham as I didn't fancy the whole way home and then a nice cool ride with a light mist over the fields back from there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 26 October, 2016, 09:25:22 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 26 October, 2016, 08:38:47 pm
5000 Chelsea fans having to be contained in parkland instead of the narrow streets round Upton Park. It'll be like Braveheart.

Ahhhhhhhhh that would make sense. I didn't know there WERE that many police dogs
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 27 October, 2016, 10:31:48 am
Took the road around my office to see the sunrise over the harbour  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 27 October, 2016, 10:33:11 pm
Quote from: Pingu on 27 October, 2016, 10:31:48 am
Took the road around my office to see the sunrise over the harbour  :thumbsup:

As seen from Mrs P's work:

(https://c6.staticflickr.com/6/5689/29972916573_f87e282972_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/MEB2RF)
IMG_20161027_222225 (https://flic.kr/p/MEB2RF) by The Pingus (https://www.flickr.com/photos/the_pingus/), on Flickr
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 28 October, 2016, 09:44:14 am
A devil of commute yesterday. It was my 666th commute to this job.

Bloody windy on the way back, and I really felt the hangover of a tough slog into the wind when I set off this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 31 October, 2016, 12:31:58 am
First bike commute in a while for me today. Going in was quite nice (I hadn't ridden much in the preceding week so it was nice to be back on the bike).
Coming home wasn't as much fun; it was late and I'd had quite a hard shift. I was thinking about using the car tomorrow during the ride so I need to have a word with myself and HTFU.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 31 October, 2016, 08:30:25 am
Head on collision.

I take a little bit of bike path that goes behind Wilton Engineering, under the old railway and on to Port Clarence Road. It cuts a corner. It's a blind right turn into the tunnel under the railway, and that's where I met the fellow cyclist. We both hauled on the anchors and apologised, but it's almost an hour ago and I'm still shaking.

Feck.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DrMekon on 31 October, 2016, 08:40:50 am
What's the Keto equivalent to a sweet tea? Double spoon of coconut oil in your coffee? Big fuck off bell on order?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 31 October, 2016, 09:19:13 am
Fog.
Proper Dickensian stuff.
Unable to see the far side of the river.
(https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5481/30566924402_9449c0f3b0_b.jpg)
And it seemed to get thicker as I made my way up the Lee Valley.

That, and the utter delight in the shape of a brand new pair of Assos 3/4s.
Did I mention that they are delightful?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 31 October, 2016, 01:08:30 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 31 October, 2016, 09:19:13 am
Never mind this...

That, and the utter delight in the shape of a brand new pair of Assos 3/4s.
Did I mention that they are delightful?

I am looking into this. What Assos make/name exactly?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 31 October, 2016, 02:52:42 pm
Quote from: TigaSefi on 31 October, 2016, 01:08:30 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 31 October, 2016, 09:19:13 am
Never mind this...

That, and the utter delight in the shape of a brand new pair of Assos 3/4s.
Did I mention that they are delightful?

I am looking into this. What Assos make/name exactly?
   Assos TK.tiburu_s7 Knickers Blok Black
Wiggle currently have them for £20.00 less than I paid for them last week. Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrr.......................
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 31 October, 2016, 03:35:54 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 31 October, 2016, 02:52:42 pm
Quote from: TigaSefi on 31 October, 2016, 01:08:30 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 31 October, 2016, 09:19:13 am
Never mind this...

That, and the utter delight in the shape of a brand new pair of Assos 3/4s.
Did I mention that they are delightful?

I am looking into this. What Assos make/name exactly?
   Assos TK.tiburu_s7 Knickers Blok Black
Wiggle currently have them for £20.00 less than I paid for them last week. Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrr.......................

Wow! That's eye-wateringly expensive *wipes tear from eyes*. Glad they wear well though.....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 31 October, 2016, 05:48:41 pm
First proper dark ride home tonight.

Twilight as I set off.
Saw a couple of bats in the countryside as it got darker.
Proper dark by the time I got home.

Bit wet, too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 01 November, 2016, 12:54:29 am
Contrasting rides today (yes I did HTFU  ;D).
Going in was sunny and warm, coming home misty and very cold and yet I still saw another rider wearing shorts.
There's a very good chance that I'll be riding in tomorrow.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 01 November, 2016, 09:09:21 am
Passed an audaxer this morning under Blackfriars Bridge on the CS highway. How did I know? he was wearing an Audax UK white jacket. Very swish!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 01 November, 2016, 09:09:57 am
2 cars coming way too close really got to me this morning, and I shouted at both. Need to revert to my more chilled out attitude as that just puts my head in a bad place for the start of my day.

Black bmw 3 series, 15 plate.
Black fiat punto bit older didn't see the plate.

Unhappy at them and my response.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 01 November, 2016, 12:06:46 pm
Struggled to get in, after a day of very light winds.

Cyclists also want to seem to want to ride on the right, which makes life interesting
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 01 November, 2016, 12:21:23 pm
Quote from: Riggers on 26 October, 2016, 12:12:13 pm
... I'd caution chaps to be wary of sodden leaves on the road. We don't want: "Sodding leaves – skidded on them!"

aka Chutney.

(That term courtesy of Woolly, I think).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 01 November, 2016, 12:28:36 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 31 October, 2016, 02:52:42 pm
   Assos TK.tiburu_s7 Knickers Blok Black (http://www.wiggle.co.uk/assos-tktiburu-s7-knickers/) ...

WTF does TIR mean, aside from being another term for XXXL, according to their size chart.

I hope I never need that size, but I'm curious as to what the letters mean!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 01 November, 2016, 03:28:42 pm
Quote from: TimO on 01 November, 2016, 12:28:36 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 31 October, 2016, 02:52:42 pm
   Assos TK.tiburu_s7 Knickers Blok Black (http://www.wiggle.co.uk/assos-tktiburu-s7-knickers/) ...

WTF does TIR mean, aside from being another term for XXXL, according to their size chart.

I hope I never need that size, but I'm curious as to what the letters mean!

Apparently Assos says "TIR, = XLG but wider"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 01 November, 2016, 09:11:13 pm
Quote from: TigaSefi on 31 October, 2016, 03:35:54 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 31 October, 2016, 02:52:42 pm
Quote from: TigaSefi on 31 October, 2016, 01:08:30 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 31 October, 2016, 09:19:13 am
Never mind this...

That, and the utter delight in the shape of a brand new pair of Assos 3/4s.
Did I mention that they are delightful?

I am looking into this. What Assos make/name exactly?
   Assos TK.tiburu_s7 Knickers Blok Black
Wiggle currently have them for £20.00 less than I paid for them last week. Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrr.......................

Wow! That's eye-wateringly expensive *wipes tear from eyes*. Glad they wear well though.....

These are fantastic as are the bib short in this fabric. I have other brands and in theory they are made of the same material but the Assos ones just raise the bar (and the price). They do all get damaged in the same way if you have an off
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 01 November, 2016, 09:23:01 pm
Quote from: pumpkin on 01 November, 2016, 09:11:13 pm
These are fantastic as are the bib short in this fabric. I have other brands and in theory they are made of the same material but the Assos ones just raise the bar (and the price). They do all get damaged in the same way if you have an off

My winter commute bibs are my Assos former Audax ones that suffered an 'orf' in the Oyne Incident on the Snow Roads a few years back.
They have a few rips around the knee, but are otherwise undamaged, and are perfect for winter commuting!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 01 November, 2016, 09:41:57 pm
Quote from: TimO on 01 November, 2016, 12:21:23 pm
Quote from: Riggers on 26 October, 2016, 12:12:13 pm
... I'd caution chaps to be wary of sodden leaves on the road. We don't want: "Sodding leaves – skidded on them!"

aka Chutney.

(That term courtesy of Woolly, I think).

He had a bike named for it. A veteran of the Pyrénées, I think :-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 01 November, 2016, 10:32:19 pm
Bit chilly today, might have to get the longs on soon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 01 November, 2016, 10:44:09 pm
Yes, today was drier, brighter, and chillier than yesterday.
But I've been in longs for 2 weeks already!

( but last week I was lurgified and didn't ride at all )
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 02 November, 2016, 12:10:14 am
It was quite warm and sunny riding in this afternoon but it was cold coming home; the Garmin reported 0.7 deg. C at one point.
I was just about warm enough with a windproof over two LS tops, leg-warmers and windproof gloves with silk liners underneath.
If it stays like this, I think I'll be digging out windproof leg-warmers as well as heavier gloves.
One of the problems with late starts and late finishes is that I'm riding in during the warmest part of the day and coming home when it's really cold.

More of a issue is that I'm really not enjoying the commute on the bike. I'm continuing to do it mainly because I feel that I should; two fewer car journeys and I'm a cyclist. The reduced cost, the exercise and the contribution to weight loss aren't really doing it for me at the moment.
On the positive side, I'm looking forward to a bike ride with Helen on Thursday when we're both off work. If bike commuting starts to reduce my enjoyment of riding, I'll start using the car more  :(.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 02 November, 2016, 08:25:57 am
Definitely a bit chillier this morning, 2½°C, although it's forecast to be 10°C when I leave later on, so I can doff a lot of what I wore in!

It sounds like I'm getting the opposite temperature sequence to you, Andrew !

I don't mind it being a little chilly, it's dry, which is the main thing. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 02 November, 2016, 09:49:23 am
Quote from: sg37409 on 01 November, 2016, 09:09:57 am
2 cars coming way too close really got to me this morning, and I shouted at both. Need to revert to my more chilled out attitude as that just puts my head in a bad place for the start of my day.

Black bmw 3 series, 15 plate.
Black fiat punto bit older didn't see the plate.

Unhappy at them and my response.

Try being deliberately nice to someone at the next opportunity. I have lots of chances to give way to pedestrians, so I say hello to them or try to get a smile. It seems to allow me to forget the adrenalin rush more quickly. Sounds a bit like hippy bullshit, but it does seem to make me forget negative interactions more quickly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 02 November, 2016, 09:51:18 am
I arrived at the pedestrian gate at 0705 to see a big notice saying "Gate b0rked - closed until further notice". Not wishing to hang around in the deep shade and frost until 0730 when the moton gate opens, or ride the by-pass and A600 on my folder, I decided to ride the bridleway through the woods and across the fields to get to the main gate. The fresh woodland smell followed by the ride through frosty fields on a bright sunny morning was absolutely beautiful. And, the (nearly) new baby-size Marathons on the folder just laughed at the bumps, holes, rocks and loose sand on the track. I think I'll go that way again. Has to be dry, mind. The woods turn into a quagmire after rain.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 02 November, 2016, 10:03:19 am
There's one of those temporary cycle restrictions on part of my route at Estreham Road Streatham.
(Details here: https://www.lambeth.gov.uk/sites/default/files/640x360-Estreham-road.png)
Half the road has been closed off, so traffic can come through the junction in one direction, but not the other. The aim is to stop rat-running.
In the few days since it's been in operation I've seen at least three cars just drive past the no entry sign on the wrong side of the road. This despite some sort of voluntary marshalling scheme. It adds a couple of minutes to my commute stuck behind obstinate drivers who simply can't believe "Road Closed" means that the road is actually closed!

Can't help wondering why the council have chosen not to have at least a PCSO presence there to reinforce driver behaviour.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 02 November, 2016, 10:17:10 am
Quote from: alexb on 02 November, 2016, 10:03:19 am
There's one of those temporary cycle restrictions on part of my route at Estreham Road Streatham.
(Details here: https://www.lambeth.gov.uk/sites/default/files/640x360-Estreham-road.png)
Half the road has been closed off, so traffic can come through the junction in one direction, but not the other. The aim is to stop rat-running.
In the few days since it's been in operation I've seen at least three cars just drive past the no entry sign on the wrong side of the road. This despite some sort of voluntary marshalling scheme. It adds a couple of minutes to my commute stuck behind obstinate drivers who simply can't believe "Road Closed" means that the road is actually closed! ...

I saw that being put in last week, when they totally closed the road to do it.  I was hoping that it was a complete closure to motor vehicles, but obviously not.  If anyone is stupid enough to drive through in front of or behind me, they'll find that a copy of the video is sent to RoadSafe (http://content.met.police.uk/Site/roadsafelondon).

Apparently this is part of Quietway 5 and specifically, this part of the scheme is a 6 months trial.  More information here (https://www.lambeth.gov.uk/consultations/quietway-5-cycle-route-waterloo-to-croydon-estreham-road-series-5).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nethypete on 02 November, 2016, 07:42:18 pm
Working in Aviemore today so longer commute than usual. Dark and cold ride home - time to look out the studs this weekend as it won't be long before the snows of yesteryear.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 02 November, 2016, 07:49:29 pm
Clear, crisp ride home tonight.
Riverside was breathtaking.
The new shorts continue to delight.
About to pop out to see my Grate Frend Mr. Sainsbury, shortly.
I'll be sporting civvies.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 03 November, 2016, 01:03:23 am
It wasn't a great day to forget my cycling hat. I rode in wearing a cap but coming home that didn't give any cover to my ears .....
Perhaps because of that, I managed to cover the ground reasonably quickly.
I also managed to leave my cash, cards and 'phone at home although that didn't matter in the end because I didn't have time to stop for a coffee during my shift.

I'm off for the next 2 days and it looks like rain. Must grumble.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 03 November, 2016, 09:25:29 am
Quote from: TimO on 02 November, 2016, 10:17:10 am
Quote from: alexb on 02 November, 2016, 10:03:19 am
There's one of those temporary cycle restrictions on part of my route at Estreham Road Streatham.
(Details here: https://www.lambeth.gov.uk/sites/default/files/640x360-Estreham-road.png)
Half the road has been closed off, so traffic can come through the junction in one direction, but not the other. The aim is to stop rat-running.
In the few days since it's been in operation I've seen at least three cars just drive past the no entry sign on the wrong side of the road. This despite some sort of voluntary marshalling scheme. It adds a couple of minutes to my commute stuck behind obstinate drivers who simply can't believe "Road Closed" means that the road is actually closed! ...

I saw that being put in last week, when they totally closed the road to do it.  I was hoping that it was a complete closure to motor vehicles, but obviously not.  If anyone is stupid enough to drive through in front of or behind me, they'll find that a copy of the video is sent to RoadSafe (http://content.met.police.uk/Site/roadsafelondon).

Apparently this is part of Quietway 5 and specifically, this part of the scheme is a 6 months trial.  More information here (https://www.lambeth.gov.uk/consultations/quietway-5-cycle-route-waterloo-to-croydon-estreham-road-series-5).

I have friends who live in the area and they're pretty conflicted about it. I don't live far from it either and think it's a good thing, but it should have been closed completely.
What's it like when you ride through? I seem to travel about an hour earlier than you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 03 November, 2016, 04:58:19 pm
It makes me all warm and fuzzy inside when I encounter an 'Road Closed' sign ignoring moton struggling to about face because the road WAS closed. I'm happy to wait all day as I mock ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 03 November, 2016, 10:15:26 pm
Quote from: Andrew Br on 02 November, 2016, 12:10:14 am
It was quite warm and sunny riding in this afternoon but it was cold coming home; the Garmin reported 0.7 deg. C at one point.
I was just about warm enough with a windproof over two LS tops, leg-warmers and windproof gloves with silk liners underneath.
If it stays like this, I think I'll be digging out windproof leg-warmers as well as heavier gloves.
One of the problems with late starts and late finishes is that I'm riding in during the warmest part of the day and coming home when it's really cold.

More of a issue is that I'm really not enjoying the commute on the bike. I'm continuing to do it mainly because I feel that I should; two fewer car journeys and I'm a cyclist. The reduced cost, the exercise and the contribution to weight loss aren't really doing it for me at the moment.
On the positive side, I'm looking forward to a bike ride with Helen on Thursday when we're both off work. If bike commuting starts to reduce my enjoyment of riding, I'll start using the car more  :(.


I feel your angst.  I rode my scooter in today! :-(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 04 November, 2016, 07:13:13 am
Quote from: alexb on 03 November, 2016, 09:25:29 am
... I have friends who live in the area and they're pretty conflicted about it. I don't live far from it either and think it's a good thing, but it should have been closed completely.
What's it like when you ride through? I seem to travel about an hour earlier than you.

I rarely have problems with the road, as such, but with significant two way motor vehicle traffic, they tend to get stuck with the parked cars at the approach to the traffic lights.  Most of the time, I can still cycle past them, but occasionally they manage to block the road completely, so it's a case of either wait them out, or walk past them on the pavement.  Hopefully, that at least, will be reduced, although the garage's parked vehicles do tend to fairly often make it impossible to use the short section of cycle path to get to the stop line for the short green light.

I only use that route on my way home, it's easier to use the A23 going North, but around Streatham the Southbound A23 has two extremely nasty and two fairly nasty junctions, all of which are avoided using that back road cycle route.  I'm normally going through there between 3-30pm and 5pm, so not the busiest time, either.

During my two passages through the new road closure section, the first one had guys in high-vis hanging around, so there was perfect use.  Yesterday, out of the three other vehicles I saw moving around there, one was a white van who decided to ignore the No-Entry sign, and drive through on the wrong side.  I need to check my video recordings and see whether it was adequately visible enough to send into RoadSafe.


This morning was a lot less brisk than the previous two days.  It was 7°C, compared to 1°C yesterday morning, so I could drop the fleece jacket, and just use a base layer and YACF jersey.  The gloves could go too, mitts were perfectly adequate this morning.  As the skies lighten, it looks like it's going to be another fine sunny day.  With luck, I'll see a little of that, on my way home.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 04 November, 2016, 11:58:05 am
Quote from: TimO on 04 November, 2016, 07:13:13 am
... Yesterday, out of the three other vehicles I saw moving around there, one was a white van who decided to ignore the No-Entry sign, and drive through on the wrong side.  I need to check my video recordings and see whether it was adequately visible enough to send into RoadSafe. ...

Damn, it's not. :(

I can't quite make out the registration, or the name on the back of the van.  Neither is ever quite close enough in the somewhat dim conditions, for me to make them out, not even a partial plate.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 04 November, 2016, 01:20:57 pm
Longs on for the first time this season.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 04 November, 2016, 05:54:53 pm
Quote from: Pingu on 04 November, 2016, 01:20:57 pm
Longs on for the first time this season.

Saving mine for a wee treat next week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 04 November, 2016, 07:34:24 pm
A somewhat curtailed commute this morning. I'd had a bit of an iffy tummy prior to setting off but thought it had settled down. As it is I got five miles from home when my guts let it be known that I had two choices: head home as fast as I could or find a hedge to crap behind.  :o

Well it was far too cold to be getting my bottom out. I made it home but it was close.

Ended up getting the train in and arriving later than if I'd just cycled, there goes my flexi buffer. Ho hum.

A shame really as it was a lovely morning for cycling. Though the rain this afternoon leaves me less sad about being stuck with the train.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 04 November, 2016, 09:12:27 pm
Longs have been on for a couple of weeks now.

Winter boots on today to keep my tootsies warm.
I could have probably managed a bit longer in my normal shoes with overshoes, but my overshoes were US when I went to get them.
I do have a new spare set of overshoes somewhere, but I couldn't find them this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 04 November, 2016, 10:49:15 pm
Not the greatest commute I've had:
About half way through the way in, my front shifter stopped holding a shift and kept going back to the little ring. Of course this is just as the road tilts down. Its a bar end, so I held it on the big ring as necessary - though it made smooth riding in traffic tricky. At one point the chain needed put back on, and I must have wiped my nose after because I had an oil moustache by the time I arrived at work.
L(to work)BS Baker Street Bikes sorted my shifter out during the day - thanks!
On the way home there was a litany of stuff to slow me down: it was dark and raining. Front light battery needed replaced at Falmer. The volume of wet leaves on the cyclepath by the A27 made me feel cautious and consider whether the bike with 25c tyres was the wisest choice. And then I got a rear puncture by the prison. I walked from there as it was quicker than changing a tube and my sense of humour was starting to leave me.

On the up side, the cold morning was refreshing and I didn't give Southern Rail any money.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 06 November, 2016, 01:17:49 am
There was some variation on my commute today. I stopped off for a cup of tea with some friends in ChorltonCH and, to get there, I took part of the TPT. It was muddy and leafy so it wasn't easy on slick tyres. Progress was tentative but relaxed and I got ther OK.
I then used my old route up Styal Road for the rest of the journey. There were lots of puddles along the bank of the Mersey leaving my bike, leg warmers and shoes in quite a state.
I also used this route on the way home. It was OK. I think I might start to mix up my journeys to add a bit of variety. Hopefully that'll also help with motivation. I wasn't remotely tempted to use the car today partly, I think, because I've only a few more late shifts before I switch to very early starts. The I'll use the car with no sense of guilt.
The Garmin was reading -1.7 deg. C at one point and it certainly felt cold. I think the Winter boots will make an appearance tomorrow, possibly with bib-longs or, at the very least, Windstopper leg warmers. Gloves are OK for now.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 07 November, 2016, 12:28:29 am
Another "Drive like a Muppet Sunday" today. After the 3rd car pulled out in front of me, I opted for front and rear lights.
It also started raining and it was heavy enough for me to put the waterproof on. The rain stopped before I got to work but I kept the jacket on until I arrived.
Coming home, I layered up and I didn't find it as cold as yesterday.
I've got a day off tomorrow (a bike ride is planned) before I switch to early shifts. Tuesday is an 08.00 start so a bike commute is likely whereas, after that, it's 06.00 and earlier............

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 07 November, 2016, 10:25:35 am
A fortnight off and someone switched on winter.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 07 November, 2016, 12:58:10 pm
Got chatting to a rider I meet occasionally after this conversation (https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=26458.msg2089200#msg2089200), suggested she might like to pop her head around the door here.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 07 November, 2016, 02:27:08 pm
Quote from: TimO on 12 October, 2016, 01:37:03 pm
For your elucidation, my commute at 100 times normal speed which is an effective speed a smidgen under Mach 2.  ;D

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/Commute_20161011_Still.jpg)
YouTube (https://youtu.be/0k5hb6iyqYE)

It's nice to see how the sky lightens up between 6-20, when I left, and 7-15, when I arrived.
I feel dizzy, slightly nauseous and your wish is my command, master.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 07 November, 2016, 05:48:42 pm
Garmin was showing zero degrees on both ride in and home today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 07 November, 2016, 06:35:54 pm
I just got gritted on the way home - twice! :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 07 November, 2016, 06:43:52 pm
I needed to be home early as I have date with the Gatwick Premier Inn for an early morning flight so as I was on the Brommie I sprinted down to London Bridge and got the train. This explains why rather than being at home now I'm sitting in the dark with a glow stick for company outside East Croydon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 07 November, 2016, 10:42:09 pm
Quote from: ian on 07 November, 2016, 06:43:52 pm
I needed to be home early as I have date with the Gatwick Premier Inn for an early morning flight so as I was on the Brommie I sprinted down to London Bridge and got the train. This explains why rather than being at home now I'm sitting in the dark with a glow stick for company outside East Croydon.

I didn't even get to leave the station, so no glow stick for me :( Hope you got there in the end!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 07 November, 2016, 10:49:05 pm
I debated where to post this, as it could have been in 'Grumble...' or 'Have you been out today', but as this is the closest I've had to a commute for a while, here it is.

I have a gig in Mayfair weekday evenings - today was the first day.  I was surprised at how horrible it was heading into town the end of the day.  When I left home I guess I caught the tail end of the school run combined with people heading home early.  No relief once I got to CS3 because by then it was after 5pm.  Lord have mercy, there are a lot of tosspots on bikes these days.  I can not confirm I prefer the cyclists with no lights to those with lights which can turn night into day - and inevitably are pointed above horizontal.  >:(

In addition to regaining my commuting fitness I need to rediscover my cycling zen.  I really don't need to be worked up upon arrival.  As I have become soft I shall skip battling the elements tomorrow and use public transport, but back on the bicycle come Wednesday.  I shall cling to the hope that many of the $badword I encountered today are fair weather cyclists and disappear from the roads very soon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 08 November, 2016, 08:23:25 am
Maybe I'm getting soft but I'm really feeling the cold at the moment, minus 3 leaving this morning, gradually warms up as you head deeper into the city but I still can't believe those who are in shorts, mind you the guy pushing his single speed up Kings Road who was in short sleeves as well looked to be regretting his decision
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 08 November, 2016, 09:14:03 am
-3.8 on the way past  Crathes this morning.
Back roads all treacherous, will probably stick to main road on way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 08 November, 2016, 09:33:04 am
I should've had thicker gloves on this morning  :-X
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 08 November, 2016, 01:44:15 pm
First 'proper' cold one this morning. I spent about a third of my commute (the bit on the road that is beyond the back of the back roads I use) with a real case of TEH FEAR expecting my wheels to part company with friction and dump me on my arse. The 7 3/4 mile ride took me a good 4 minutes longer than usual :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 08 November, 2016, 01:52:34 pm
The Boy reported it was colder coming home from work, at around 08:00, than it was going to, at 03:30.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 08 November, 2016, 02:53:21 pm
-2.2c this morning and I was taking it very cautiously due to the possibility of black ice.

Aldi ski gloves were not warm enough but the ski socks were.

Once my fingers started working again it was quite pleasant but then my toes got cold! :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 08 November, 2016, 02:58:11 pm
..ant, until they dropped off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 08 November, 2016, 03:12:15 pm
Quote from: Feanor on 08 November, 2016, 09:14:03 am
-3.8 on the way past  Crathes this morning.

Nippy. Lowest for me was +3.5
Not too bad. 3/4's now, and thicker gloves.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 08 November, 2016, 04:04:50 pm
Quote from: hatler on 08 November, 2016, 02:58:11 pm
..ant, until they dropped off.



Well, if nobody else is going to recognise this, for fast-thinking and quick-wittedness, I will!  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 08 November, 2016, 04:31:38 pm
Quote from: Riggers on 08 November, 2016, 04:04:50 pm
Quote from: hatler on 08 November, 2016, 02:58:11 pm
..ant, until they dropped off.



Well, if nobody else is going to recognise this, for fast-thinking and quick-wittedness, I will!  ;D
Ithangyewwwwwww !
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 08 November, 2016, 06:23:48 pm
-3.8 deg. C for me as well this am*. Since the roads were bone dry and had been gritted I wasn't worried about ice but I did feel the cold.
I overtook a couple of shorts wearers en route, one of whom wasn't wearing gloves  :o. My fingers had only begun to warm up when I'd reached Didsbury about 5 miles into the ride. Like Si S I really don't understand how people can do this. Judging by what they were riding and the rest of the kit they were wearing, it wasn't because they couldn't afford gloves........
The other note-worthy episode was a collision where I cross the A34 to get to work. One of the small Range Rovers (Evoque, rhymes with "Cock" the way I pronounce it) had been in a bump. Both airbags were visible but the people looked OK and were exchanging details. I didn't see what damage there was to either car and I couldn't work out what had happened.

Coming home I was glad that the forecast was wrong; it wasn't raining and I rather enjoyed the ride.
I took the "old" route down Styal Road but, as an experiment, I rode along the Cheshire bank of the Mersey instead of crossing over to get on the TPT. A few diversions had me ascending some steep, leaf covered rises. It wasn't fun on slicks and I was expecting the "wheel slip of doom" despite my being sat down and pedalling carefully. I shan't go that way again.......

Annoyingly, my front, flashing light showed the "low battery" warning on the way in. I'd only charged the bloody thing on Saturday and used it on the low, flashing setting for a couple of hours. I know it was cold but I didn't expect it to hammer the battery that much.
It's the cheapest Knog Blinder that Planet X were selling off a few months ago. Battery life aside (and, it has to be said a few other niggles) it's a good light and I really appreciate the alternate lens flash mode. I'd be really pissed off if I'd paid the full price for it.
Meanwhile, the trusty IQ Speed with the 6 AA Eneloop battery pack is still going strong. I haven't charged it since the MCR-Morecambe FNRttC.

It's an 06.00 start tomorrow. That would mean getting up at 03.45 if I were to ride in.
I'm going to have an extra hour in bed and take the car. Sorry.



* I think the Garmin lies thobut.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 08 November, 2016, 06:31:00 pm
It wasn't that cold here this morning. If anything yesterday was colder. Very wet on the way home though. If it turns to snow anywhere there'll be a decent covering.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 08 November, 2016, 07:07:06 pm
The road between home and work is no longer gritted due to AUSTERITY so I tend to drive if there's a danger of ice (call me a wimp if you like, but the last time I tried was both scary and painful). So I was all set to drive this morning but when we got up there was no frost on MrsC's car windows and it was actually warmer than yesterday. So I rode in.  :smug:
Colder and wetter on the way home, though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 08 November, 2016, 07:53:18 pm
Well the last five miles of the commute saw me getting rather chilly when I'd been alright for the preceding 20. Whether it got colder or I'd just run out of heat/capacity to keep warm I don't know  ???

I did have more clothing in my pannier but didn't want to stop and get colder whilst putting it on so I plugged away, not sure if that was the best choice or not.

Anyway I'm in my dressing gown now and am about to make a second mug of tea to wrap myself around.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 08 November, 2016, 08:30:10 pm
Quote from: SteveC on 08 November, 2016, 07:07:06 pm
... so I tend to drive if there's a danger of ice (call me a wimp if you like, but the last time I tried was both scary and painful)....
Nope.  I use exactly the same rule.  As much as I hate* driving I'd rather miss a few days on the bike than have it written off and me too badly hurt to ride for weeks or longer. 


*You have no idea how much. No, really you do not..
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 08 November, 2016, 08:48:38 pm
Missed the rain yeah :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 09 November, 2016, 08:16:38 am
Wet and cold, although my suspicion it was not cold enough for the lobsters I'd deployed this morning was confirmed, it'll be the other gloves on the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 09 November, 2016, 09:27:46 am
You could have guessed that today would be blessed by a visitation

9/11 ? 11/9 ? someone got a bit confused.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 09 November, 2016, 01:51:22 pm
It was pissing down with rain from the moment I left till the moment I arrived.

On getting the wet weather gear off, the rain stopped.

Fuck You Trump >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 09 November, 2016, 01:55:01 pm
Aten't you heard, Fuzzy?  Climate change is a myth being spread by the Chinese.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 09 November, 2016, 01:58:38 pm
As I said- Fuck You Trump. The climate most definitely changed between me leaving for work and arriving.....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 10 November, 2016, 10:24:52 am
First fixed commute for a few months, no 'freewheel' moments though there were a couple of occasions where I would have done on the tourer. I had over dressed for the temperature encountered though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 10 November, 2016, 02:29:45 pm
Quote from: Riggers on 08 November, 2016, 04:04:50 pm
Quote from: hatler on 08 November, 2016, 02:58:11 pm
..ant, until they dropped off.

No it was great!  I should read before I hit the post button lol



Well, if nobody else is going to recognise this, for fast-thinking and quick-wittedness, I will!  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 10 November, 2016, 02:52:06 pm
Quote from: matthew on 10 November, 2016, 10:24:52 am
I had over dressed for the temperature encountered though.

+1

Especially in the hat department, and sod's law applies in that I took my ear band thing out my bag last night so it's going to be very warm on the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 11 November, 2016, 10:13:08 am
Overheating was avoided since I recalled my fleece hat is actually a half fleece half cotton buff so just turned it into a cotton bandana  :thumbsup:

Got it right this morning and layered so should be right on the way home, it's only taken all week to figure it out, you'd have thought that by now I'd know how to do this   :facepalm:

There's a scary amount of chutney about at the minute, all summer I've been seeing a streetsweeper between Stretford and and Flixton every Wednesday, now it's actually needed it's rather conspicous by it's abscence  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 11 November, 2016, 01:26:22 pm
New office = new indoor bike parking spot =  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 11 November, 2016, 01:29:54 pm
Struggled to find the motivation. Ironically it felt colder than Tuesday despite being a few degrees higher.

May need to pull out the winter boots!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 11 November, 2016, 05:49:20 pm
Quote from: Si S on 11 November, 2016, 10:13:08 am
There's a scary amount of chutney about at the minute...
Now that's weird.  I was thinking the exact opposite work-bound yesterday.  There're several stretches on my trip that are always awful in autumn, a mix of mashed conkers and leaves, but this year they're almost completely clear. So far.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 12 November, 2016, 08:57:12 am
Last night's commute came to a rather abrupt halt underneath a Citroën. It passed coming off the quadrant on Kings Road, nice wide road, he stopped for a right turner, as I repassed, then traffic moved again, he then very nearly completed the overtake as traffic started to stop.

The car in front of us both hit the brakes and went for a high speed U turn, this gave the guy alongside the chance to go for a very late left turn to rat run the estate.

I saw the single flash on the side indicator then I was flying, listening to the sound of crunching metal as my front wheel disappeared under his nearside front wheel.

Acrobatics - 5/10, good distance, only a quarter turn.
Landing - 8/10,  something went pop in the shoulder I landed on, which went pop again when I sat up. Not bad for an 18mph flying dismount

Front wheel is toast, we'll see about the rest shortly

Looked after at the scene by a surgeon who was riding a few lengths back, taken most of the way home by the driver and exchanged details before being collected by the wife.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 12 November, 2016, 09:27:51 am
I saw your pic on strava and I'm glad that's your wheel not a part of your body. It sounds like at least you were cared for well at the scene and the driver is being reasonable. I hope you're feeling ok this morning. GWS.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 12 November, 2016, 10:09:54 am
Only 5/10?  Tsk. :)

Hope you're not too badly hurt/shaken up and stuff the bike; it's only metal and plastic and can be replaced.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 14 November, 2016, 12:21:08 pm
Bust a front spoke on the way in.
Broken where it enters the nipple, probably corrosion.

The commuter bike is running it's winter wheels, which are the cheap Shimano R-500 which came with the bike.
They've done 6 winters.
A quick google shows the spokes retailing at around a fiver!

I'll repair the wheel as a spare, but I'm expecting that the other spokes will likely be in a similar condition.
I'm not going to re-spoke the whole wheel at £5 per spoke.

Given that a wheel of that spec can be had for about £50, I've bought a new wheel.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 14 November, 2016, 12:50:42 pm
Wee bijou commute-ette for me today on the 'hon :)

I am determined to use a bike every day till I am done here in Bexley :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 14 November, 2016, 06:01:28 pm
Has there been a malfunction in the weather grid? I've just ridden to work and back in shorts and mitts*. Last week I was dodging ice. ???


* ... and jersey and waterproof obviously
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 15 November, 2016, 08:49:10 am
Slow and sore, every bump jars my shoulder  :'(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 15 November, 2016, 08:53:34 am
Quote from: Feanor on 14 November, 2016, 12:21:08 pm
...A quick google shows the spokes retailing at around a fiver!...

Jings! Is that some sort of artisanal, small batch, hipster spoke?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 15 November, 2016, 12:45:18 pm
Very pleasant ride in. Dry, mild, tailwind, no incidents.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 15 November, 2016, 12:54:40 pm
Big moon looked amazing over the power lines above the nature reserve, but stopping on that road would be instant death (maybe) so no pictures.
Looking the other way I had a glorious pink sky above the refineries. Straight up, flocks of lapwings.
Shame about the bastard cars and lorries, it would have been a fantastic morning otherwise.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 15 November, 2016, 06:33:16 pm
Lovely ride home. Warm. Dry. A slight headwind but not sufficient to be annoying. And very quiet. I was over half way home before the first car overtook me. And nearly that far before the first one came in the other direction.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 16 November, 2016, 12:52:05 pm
A bit of a nervous one in the traffic last night, but that was to be expected.

The post accident clean has revealed that the only thing keeping all the bits of the drivetrain working together was the muck, ah well, can't complain, all those bits were rescued from the bits box at the start of spring.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 16 November, 2016, 01:09:12 pm
Quote from: Feanor on 14 November, 2016, 12:21:08 pm
Bust a front spoke on the way in.
Broken where it enters the nipple, probably corrosion.

The commuter bike is running it's winter wheels, which are the cheap Shimano R-500 which came with the bike.
They've done 6 winters.
A quick google shows the spokes retailing at around a fiver!

I'll repair the wheel as a spare, but I'm expecting that the other spokes will likely be in a similar condition.
I'm not going to re-spoke the whole wheel at £5 per spoke.

Given that a wheel of that spec can be had for about £50, I've bought a new wheel.

The R-500 appears to just be a 24 spoked front wheel with 278mm spokes.  A cursory search on eBay can find that many spokes for less than £10, although I didn't bother checking plain gauge vs butted spokes (check the numbers though, I just did a very quick Google for them).

If you looked at Shimano branded spokes, I can believe that sort of ludicrous pricing, but there are plenty of other spokes available which are essentially identical.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 16 November, 2016, 04:20:37 pm
Indeed, thanks.

It seems there's nothing magical about the expensive Shimano ones, they are just plane ole spokes. ( 20 of em )

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 16 November, 2016, 07:22:25 pm
Unusual combination for this time of year this morning; dry, warm, clear skies and a lovely moonlit ride to work.

Shame about the, not especially strong, head wind. :)
Title: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 16 November, 2016, 08:59:32 pm
Two cyclists down. One at Westminster and the other just over Chelsea Bridge. Hope both are ok in the end.

Edit: LFGSS is black so maybe something bad happened
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 November, 2016, 12:42:55 pm
:(  That is awfully sad.

On the upside, I managed a short ride to catch a train this morning.  I've been using the folder this week, which gives me more options for bailing, but today I went for the tourer, which committed me to one particular train heading to work, and a bit of a sly bodge on the return.  I will be riding to & from East Croydon in the short term for my new job, so riding to West Croydon gives me a little practice*


* Given their names, you would expect that West Croydon station would be in the West of Croydon, and East Croydon in the East.  And so they are....iiiiiiish.  But the ride from ours (West of Croydon) is approximately the same to each, because West Croydon is mostly North of East Croydon.

Anyway... tl;dr I rode a bicycle and it was fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 17 November, 2016, 06:29:49 pm
GN: I missed all the heavy rain
BN: I had to scoot the last three miles home as my NDS crank bolt unscrewed itself

Don't know how that happened. I only checked them on Sunday ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 18 November, 2016, 08:19:25 am
The full on winter treatment, 5 solid miles of hail, the remainder just driving rain. I hate hail.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 18 November, 2016, 09:42:03 am
Went through Bow on CS2 in both directions yesterday (first time in ages) and noticed large numbers on some of the flyover supports: 1-2 west of the roundabout, 3-6 east.  Anyone have a clue what they're for? 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 18 November, 2016, 10:17:40 am
Paths, exits. There are pedestrian crossings through the centre (an' bike racks, an' track pump an' all). There are maps signing the routes, too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 November, 2016, 10:23:12 am
Yes.  I was on the commute this morning. And it was lovely. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 18 November, 2016, 10:37:23 am
Ruddy cold this morning, roofs and grass were white with frost.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 18 November, 2016, 10:38:16 am
Quote from: Ham on 18 November, 2016, 10:17:40 am
Paths, exits. There are pedestrian crossings through the centre (an' bike racks, an' track pump an' all). There are maps signing the routes, too.

Cheers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ruthie on 18 November, 2016, 10:44:29 pm
Quote from: fboab on 15 November, 2016, 12:54:40 pm
Big moon looked amazing over the power lines above the nature reserve, but stopping on that road would be instant death (maybe) so no pictures.
Looking the other way I had a glorious pink sky above the refineries. Straight up, flocks of lapwings.
Shame about the bastard cars and lorries, it would have been a fantastic morning otherwise.

Recognise any of this Lindsay? 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-j2c_lqothQ&index=3&list=RDhHUr7KfD8WY

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hHUr7KfD8WY&list=PLUYNhKrprmmKQI0jGzEWORDHKc6D0jwwk
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 19 November, 2016, 11:57:16 am
My office is on the first one,  but I can't tell with the second,  too many balloon shots.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ruthie on 19 November, 2016, 01:20:03 pm
It's up near Saltholme.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 19 November, 2016, 01:28:57 pm
A bit of a summary post.

Week 1: 4/5.  The one Tube journey was to avoid rain - which never came.  >:(
Week 2: 5/5.

I'm doing just about 40km per day.  It's not far, and it's not hilly, but if I can keep this up all winter I should just about end up in a bit better shape, or at least less round.  In these two weeks I have learned that I am unfit, my road zen is pretty much lost, and I need to re-learn how to dress for cycling in this weather.  That, or I need to carry a change of clothes and have a wipe-down upon arrival.  :-\


And last night, there were quite a few unmarked police cars zooming around Westminster just after 19:30.  Haven't spotted anything on the news, or maybe there were all in a rush to get home after their shift.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 21 November, 2016, 08:23:17 am
A tough start to the week with a nasty headwind, although if the forecast holds I might be able to get home without a pedal stroke.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 21 November, 2016, 01:45:11 pm
All the leaves came down last night, it's at that horrible stage where they gone all sludgy and skiddy. Got soaked but it's milder.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Socks on 21 November, 2016, 06:04:34 pm
I'm lucky enough to have quite a nice route to / from work - some along the usual busy urban roads, and a couple of very badly designed junctions.  However about half of it along a nice coast road.  Still busy along the coast road, but lovely views out to sea.  Light headwind on the way to work, but dry and above freezing.   Then a very strong wind pushing me along on the way home.  Despite the rain, enjoyable trip back.  There's something quite exciting about a very windy day - when it's in the right direction.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 21 November, 2016, 06:16:13 pm
Attempted to cycle up the short and steep hill (25%) to my house. Now covered in damp leaf chutney. Spin, spin, spin the wheel. Even with my full weight on the back wheel that just wasn't happening. Second hill defeat of the year. The first was one when an overenthusiastic gear change dropped the chain and left me spinning furiously at the bottom of the hill thinking I'd discovered an entirely new gear (normally, because I'm coming downhill beforehand, I am used to changing through the entire range and that entails a few moments of frantic spinning at the bottom of the steep hill, especially as it's bad idea to use my downhill momentum on the basis I might meet a rapidly descending car head-on as it's rather narrow).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 21 November, 2016, 06:28:05 pm
It was a crisp, clear, still and freezing cold morning. Using the studded tyres was a good move as I rode over a number of stretches of frozen field run off. However on the way home the headwind was vicious bordering on unsafe and it was lashing down. I think winter may have arrived!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 21 November, 2016, 08:07:53 pm
Rode in, got soaked and frozen, got a lift home.

The worst bit was the queue of traffic I had to sit in because folk are too scared to get their wheels wet, I mean treating a puddle 2" deep as a problem with cars backed up in both lanes. The waiting and slow moving really chilled me to the bone and the road is far too narrow to be able to escape if I rode down the middle.

I was late into the office and spent the morning hugging the oil radiator we keep for such days.

D.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nethypete on 21 November, 2016, 10:26:25 pm
Approaching zero kelvin today in far north (minus 9 in reality) - thankfully dry with the cold. Back on the studs. Due the rain overnight so roads could be 'fun' tomorrow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 22 November, 2016, 08:18:39 am
Getting really fed up of idiots in buses and wankpanzers trying to kill me on a daily basis.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 22 November, 2016, 09:04:54 am
I've been enjoying using CS2 & 3, but getting rather annoyed at the large puddles (being addressed along Embankment, I think) and the plethora of leaves, quickly be ground into a pulp (being ignored).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonB on 22 November, 2016, 10:07:38 am
Crossing the pedestrianised area in the centre of Bristol and heading up Park Street, lots of walkers and cyclists crossing the one way road before it starts going up to Park Street, I slowed and let another cyclist come in front of me and we get in the designated cycle path, he gives me a wave and I think nice thoughts then I hear him shout at pedestrian in path, 'get out the fucking way, this is the fucking cycle path for fucks sake' ... nice thoughts now dissipated, jeez the demarcation between cycle path and path is not that obvious and the guy looked genuinely confused when shouted at ... not nice :-[

In other news, going under Temple Way underpass (now full of damp leaves), moved over for oncoming cyclist and front wheel went from under me. In my head I'm starting to think about the best approach for the ensuing fall but tyre found a bit of grip and I stayed up  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nethypete on 22 November, 2016, 05:43:10 pm
Quote from: Nethypete on 21 November, 2016, 10:26:25 pm
Approaching zero kelvin today in far north (minus 9 in reality) - thankfully dry with the cold. Back on the studs. Due the rain overnight so roads could be 'fun' tomorrow.

It did rain ....and it was 'fun' in a Type2 bordering on no fun at all kinda ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 22 November, 2016, 05:55:51 pm
Quote from: Nethypete on 22 November, 2016, 05:43:10 pm
Quote from: Nethypete on 21 November, 2016, 10:26:25 pm
Approaching zero kelvin today in far north (minus 9 in reality) - thankfully dry with the cold. Back on the studs. Due the rain overnight so roads could be 'fun' tomorrow.

It did rain ....and it was 'fun' in a Type2 bordering on no fun at all kinda ride.

Wet here too, but at least the temperature was well above freezing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 22 November, 2016, 06:42:43 pm
Rained here overnight which led to a bit of fording though deep puddles this morning, and a new stream down the road up to Thornhill. However the wind had dropped a lot and it was far more pleasant both ways. I'm a bit underpowered due to a cold though which makes some of the steeper bits a bit of a struggle on the singlespeed. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 22 November, 2016, 09:42:57 pm
Rode in like  god this morning, nothing to do with the tailwind.  Close call this evening, as matey # 1 made an enthusiastic pull out onto the roundabout I was already on. Matey #2 then pulled out while I was going past the back of Matey #1. All I had was a sense of  a red car approaching my rear wheel at speed, so I got all Cavendish with my legs and at the same time shouted a bad swear.  I don't think Matey #2 looked at all, just followed Matey #1 blindly.

The rest of the ride aas uneventful, other than the heavens opening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 23 November, 2016, 08:23:57 am
I almost managed to flip my bike, on the way into work today.

They're resurfacing Queenstown Road (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.4809709,-0.1491084,3a,75y,14.88h,95.97t/data=!3m7!1e1!3m5!1sDmrK0n6o-HMaYbLoh7OYpQ!2e0!6s%2F%2Fgeo0.ggpht.com%2Fcbk%3Fpanoid%3DDmrK0n6o-HMaYbLoh7OYpQ%26output%3Dthumbnail%26cb_client%3Dmaps_sv.tactile.gps%26thumb%3D2%26w%3D203%26h%3D100%26yaw%3D16.275642%26pitch%3D0%26thumbfov%3D100!7i13312!8i6656), next to Battersea Park, so have decided to use the cycle path as a convenient location to place a vast number of warning signs, in case no one noticed all the cones and where they'd ripped the top surface off of the road.

As the signs stopped, I tried to swap back onto the cycle path side, instead of the pedestrian side that I'd been forced onto, and manged to pick just the wrong spot, so the chutney and raised separator decided to conspire, to make sure I lost grip.

Luckily I wasn't going very fast, and even more luckily, there weren't any cars or bicycles in the bit of road that I ended up in.

Ouch, ouch, ouch.

The front left brake lever got shoved over, and lost some anodising (pushed back into place, straightaway), and the seat got slightly twisted (adjusted with my tools, when I got to work), but otherwise no obvious damage.

More annoyingly I've got several holes in my most useful and favourite Ground Effect fleece, and even a small hole in my YACF polka dot long-sleeved winter jersey.  (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/crying_emote.gif)

Oh well, it could have been a lot worse.

I need to go and wash the blood off, inspect the bruises, and put on my emergency, short sleeved, t-shirt, because the long sleeved one I brought in will annoy the elbow injury, and may end up with blood on it.

I'll assemble a video from the two cameras, and upload it to YouTube, it should look interesting. ;D

I may even decode the accelerometer data from the Garmin Virb camera, I do wonder how fast I flipped around !
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 23 November, 2016, 08:41:32 am
Bad luck Timo, glad it wasn't worse.
Guy behind me on a single speed came down on the tram tracks this morning. Worryingly, plenty of buses around, but he was up real quick and the bus behind him stopped easily.

Cold morning, down to -2 at points, though I was easily warm enough. Pleasant ride in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jiberjaber on 23 November, 2016, 09:04:15 am
Quote from: Ruthie on 18 November, 2016, 10:44:29 pm
Quote from: fboab on 15 November, 2016, 12:54:40 pm
Big moon looked amazing over the power lines above the nature reserve, but stopping on that road would be instant death (maybe) so no pictures.
Looking the other way I had a glorious pink sky above the refineries. Straight up, flocks of lapwings.
Shame about the bastard cars and lorries, it would have been a fantastic morning otherwise.

Recognise any of this Lindsay? 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-j2c_lqothQ&index=3&list=RDhHUr7KfD8WY

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hHUr7KfD8WY&list=PLUYNhKrprmmKQI0jGzEWORDHKc6D0jwwk
I think the first one has a lot of Newport area of Boro plus bonus North Gare action.

I don't think there second one is Teesside, scanning the YouTube comments implies it's perhaps Dungeness.

Sadly I don't recall any pretty mornings from when I used to cycle to Sealsands. :( It always seemed to be raining!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 23 November, 2016, 09:25:24 am
I go caught out by the resurfacing on Edge Lane last night and hit the dropped kerb which is now raised rather hard. Nice ride in this morning, warm enough to go back to three quarters.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 23 November, 2016, 10:56:16 am
How not to cycle across wet leaves!  :o ;D

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/Crash20161123_Chutney.jpg) (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LqAscYZVgP4)
Click for YouTube video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LqAscYZVgP4)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 23 November, 2016, 11:15:41 am
Quote from: Pingu on 22 November, 2016, 05:55:51 pm
Quote from: Nethypete on 22 November, 2016, 05:43:10 pm
Quote from: Nethypete on 21 November, 2016, 10:26:25 pm
Approaching zero kelvin today in far north (minus 9 in reality) - thankfully dry with the cold. Back on the studs. Due the rain overnight so roads could be 'fun' tomorrow.

It did rain ....and it was 'fun' in a Type2 bordering on no fun at all kinda ride.

Wet here too, but at least the temperature was well above freezing.

The roads remained damp and the temperature dropped so this morning some of the less busy roads were a bit slippery.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nethypete on 23 November, 2016, 12:31:54 pm
Quote from: Pingu on 23 November, 2016, 11:15:41 am
Quote from: Pingu on 22 November, 2016, 05:55:51 pm
Quote from: Nethypete on 22 November, 2016, 05:43:10 pm
Quote from: Nethypete on 21 November, 2016, 10:26:25 pm
Approaching zero kelvin today in far north (minus 9 in reality) - thankfully dry with the cold. Back on the studs. Due the rain overnight so roads could be 'fun' tomorrow.

It did rain ....and it was 'fun' in a Type2 bordering on no fun at all kinda ride.

Wet here too, but at least the temperature was well above freezing.

The roads remained damp and the temperature dropped so this morning some of the less busy roads were a bit slippery.

More rain on ice resulting in an impressively long slide on my arse past Grantown firestation this morning. First off on studs ever, due to water on black ice - only damage a severly dented ego. I live to learn another day. The studs almost certainly made it a slide rather than a splat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 23 November, 2016, 06:27:00 pm
I cycled today. First day this week (due to the road being underwater Monday and yesterday).
Both ways were actually very pleasant. And having a new toy (front light) always helps.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Diver300 on 23 November, 2016, 08:27:47 pm
Two run-ins with arrogant sods today.

1) Beeped and shouted at for cycling past this:- https://twitter.com/mtrak_uk/status/769055298682224641 (https://twitter.com/mtrak_uk/status/769055298682224641)

2) Hit the door mirror of passing car and the owner then agreed that he cared for his car more than my life.

I should move to where Coventry isn't on my commute, but that won't happen.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Diver300 on 23 November, 2016, 10:34:34 pm
Quote from: Diver300 on 23 November, 2016, 08:27:47 pm
Two run-ins with arrogant sods today.

1) Beeped and shouted at for cycling past this:- https://twitter.com/mtrak_uk/status/769055298682224641 (https://twitter.com/mtrak_uk/status/769055298682224641)


Is there anyone I should complain to? Yesterday I took 3 1/2 minutes more to negotiate that roundabout, by illegally riding on the pavement, and past several "cyclist dismount signs", but going the long way round the roundabout. Today, legally riding on the road, I get threatened.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 23 November, 2016, 11:05:40 pm
Quote from: Nethypete on 23 November, 2016, 12:31:54 pm
Quote from: Pingu on 23 November, 2016, 11:15:41 am
Quote from: Pingu on 22 November, 2016, 05:55:51 pm
Quote from: Nethypete on 22 November, 2016, 05:43:10 pm
Quote from: Nethypete on 21 November, 2016, 10:26:25 pm
Approaching zero kelvin today in far north (minus 9 in reality) - thankfully dry with the cold. Back on the studs. Due the rain overnight so roads could be 'fun' tomorrow.

It did rain ....and it was 'fun' in a Type2 bordering on no fun at all kinda ride.

Wet here too, but at least the temperature was well above freezing.

The roads remained damp and the temperature dropped so this morning some of the less busy roads were a bit slippery.

More rain on ice resulting in an impressively long slide on my arse past Grantown firestation this morning. First off on studs ever, due to water on black ice - only damage a severly dented ego. I live to learn another day. The studs almost certainly made it a slide rather than a splat.

Oof! Glad to hear you're OK. How's the bike?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 24 November, 2016, 12:54:14 am
I was back on the bike today. I can't say that I enjoyed it although the stretch on the new tarmac past Stretford Metrolink was good right up to the point where I hit the ramp where the re-surfacing hasn't been finished ..........
The ride home was into a cold headwind. I had to dodge around the roadworks in Stretford (they're doing the re-surfacing at night) since I didn't fancy the diversion along Kings Road.
Unless it's tippping down tomorrow, I'll be on the bike again.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 24 November, 2016, 07:30:51 am
I managed to get all the way to work today, without throwing myself at the road again.  Interestingly, cycling seems to have helped the bruising.  Yesterday I was limping, but after cycling home, I could walk perfectly comfortably.  Unfortunately, where I slammed my left shoulder into the ground, that's now more painful and annoying.

It was definitely a bit windier today.  Cycling to work, I had a tailwind at the start of the week, but now it's swung around and is a 15mph headwind. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nethypete on 24 November, 2016, 07:55:21 am
Quote from: Pingu on 23 November, 2016, 11:05:40 pm
Quote from: Nethypete on 23 November, 2016, 12:31:54 pm
Quote from: Pingu on 23 November, 2016, 11:15:41 am
Quote from: Pingu on 22 November, 2016, 05:55:51 pm
Quote from: Nethypete on 22 November, 2016, 05:43:10 pm
Quote from: Nethypete on 21 November, 2016, 10:26:25 pm
Approaching zero kelvin today in far north (minus 9 in reality) - thankfully dry with the cold. Back on the studs. Due the rain overnight so roads could be 'fun' tomorrow.

It did rain ....and it was 'fun' in a Type2 bordering on no fun at all kinda ride.

Wet here too, but at least the temperature was well above freezing.

The roads remained damp and the temperature dropped so this morning some of the less busy roads were a bit slippery.

More rain on ice resulting in an impressively long slide on my arse past Grantown firestation this morning. First off on studs ever, due to water on black ice - only damage a severly dented ego. I live to learn another day. The studs almost certainly made it a slide rather than a splat.

Oof! Glad to hear you're OK. How's the bike?

Unfortunately, undamaged. It's a 'meh' Edinburgh Bikes 26' ruster kept permanently with studded tyres for the best that a Cairngorm winter can throw at us. Even an idiot only rides a bent once on ice. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 24 November, 2016, 11:36:26 am
Quote from: Diver300 on 23 November, 2016, 10:34:34 pm
Quote from: Diver300 on 23 November, 2016, 08:27:47 pm
Two run-ins with arrogant sods today.

1) Beeped and shouted at for cycling past this:- https://twitter.com/mtrak_uk/status/769055298682224641 (https://twitter.com/mtrak_uk/status/769055298682224641)


Is there anyone I should complain to? Yesterday I took 3 1/2 minutes more to negotiate that roundabout, by illegally riding on the pavement, and past several "cyclist dismount signs", but going the long way round the roundabout. Today, legally riding on the road, I get threatened.

I wonder if you can query the legal status of the sign with the roadworks owners? Don't there have to be temporary traffic orders?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 24 November, 2016, 01:54:02 pm
I'm cycling on the wide dual use path, into work site, and approaching a roundabout.  Vehicle is at the junction, about 2m from the roundabout, stopped with driver typing on mobile, totally blocking the path, and the approach road  - though there were no cars behind driver's car, for the whole period.

Driver gets a fright as they notice me stopped at their door, and winds down window. It went something like this...

You're on your phone in the middle of the road.
I know and that's why I'm stopped.
Yes but you have to get off the road to be on your phone,
Really?
Yes, you have to be safely parked up, you can't just be stopped in the road. It's illegal.
Really?
Yes, but you know that...
Anyway, excuse me.
Where you going?
You're blocking the cycle track.
Where's the cycle track?
It's here!  <exasperated tone, points to the wide dual use track crossing the road, under drivers car, continuing on other side>

Driver reverses and I continue - look back after a bit - driver still stopped on road.

This is one of two junctions on the whole path, which relatively is pretty long, and just about worth using....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jakob W on 24 November, 2016, 04:20:06 pm
Aren't the white-on-red cyclists dismount signs also advisory only? ISTR that the DfT(?) says they shouldn't be used if the carriageway is open to motor vehicles.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 24 November, 2016, 09:48:28 pm
Bejesus, the entirety of the A23 from Streatham to Croydon in the company of a van that was little more than mobile sound system blasting music so loud that it actually hurt my ears and made my bones vibrate every time I overtook it or it overtook me. So about 25 times I was nearly sonically liquified. Not to mention the a constant soundtrack of shitty, distorted drum n bass.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Diver300 on 24 November, 2016, 09:57:09 pm
Quote from: Jakob W on 24 November, 2016, 04:20:06 pm
Aren't the white-on-red cyclists dismount signs also advisory only? ISTR that the DfT(?) says they shouldn't be used if the carriageway is open to motor vehicles.
It doesn't matter. Cyclist dismount signs in paint on plywood would mean that the bullies in cars think they have an excuse to run cyclists off the road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 24 November, 2016, 09:58:04 pm
Quote from: andyoxon on 24 November, 2016, 01:54:02 pm
I'm cycling on the wide dual use path, into work site, and approaching a roundabout.  Vehicle is at the junction, about 2m from the roundabout, stopped with driver typing on mobile, totally blocking the path, and the approach road  - though there were no cars behind driver's car, for the whole period.

Driver gets a fright as they notice me stopped at their door, and winds down window. It went something like this...

You're on your phone in the middle of the road.
I know and that's why I'm stopped.
Yes but you have to get off the road to be on your phone,
Really?
Yes, you have to be safely parked up, you can't just be stopped in the road. It's illegal.
Really?
Yes, but you know that...
Anyway, excuse me.
Where you going?
You're blocking the cycle track.
Where's the cycle track?
It's here!  <exasperated tone, points to the wide dual use track crossing the road, under drivers car, continuing on other side>

Driver reverses and I continue - look back after a bit - driver still stopped on road.

This is one of two junctions on the whole path, which relatively is pretty long, and just about worth using....

At my previous workplace, going by car, I would go down the A90 dual carriageway ( which is a motorway in all but name ).
There was an exit which I would take, onto a smaller road.
This was just exactly like you'd expect: An exit / deceleration lane appears on the left, which you pull into at speed, and slow down to make the exit.

On at least 2 occasions, the car in front indicated and exited too, but not to actually exit.
They came to a stop in front of me, using the exit slip lane as a lay-by to take a phone call.
I had to pull back out into fast traffic to pass them, and pull back in to exit.

I would have deployed ballistics had they been fitted.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 24 November, 2016, 11:40:55 pm
Quote from: Jakob W on 24 November, 2016, 04:20:06 pm
Aren't the white-on-red cyclists dismount signs also advisory only? ISTR that the DfT(?) says they shouldn't be used if the carriageway is open to motor vehicles.

http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/20120606202850/http://assets.dft.gov.uk/publications/tal-15-99/tal-15-99.pdf

Last page...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 25 November, 2016, 12:01:55 am
A gloriously sunny but scary ride in this afternoon. I really worry when I'm cycling into a low sun in case I'm rear-ended by some twonk who hasn't seen me. Rear lights were deployed.
Coming home (so I made it without being flattened  ;)) was cold but still. I rather enjoyed it.
More cycle commuting planned for tomorrow.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 25 November, 2016, 05:48:34 am
Quote from: Andrij on 22 November, 2016, 09:04:54 am
I've been enjoying using CS2 & 3, but getting rather annoyed at the large puddles (being addressed along Embankment, I think) and the plethora of leaves, quickly be ground into a pulp (being ignored).

So that's why the severe speed humps been smoothed out??
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 25 November, 2016, 10:21:09 am
A wee bit nippy and the new tarmac in Stretford is just a little bit slippy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 25 November, 2016, 01:06:42 pm
Last week i said I saw two accidents and had assumed that both involved a cyclist. I was wrong!

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-38105935

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 25 November, 2016, 02:03:03 pm
I am sooo looking forward to the ride home. With this clear sky Mr Sun being so low will be causing vision problems, and the skool-run will be under way

<all together>  Wish me luck as you wave me goodbye...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 25 November, 2016, 04:52:47 pm
Despite several close passes and several overtakes in places where half a brain would indicate that this was a bad idea, I had a lovely ride in this morning. Tail wind, dry, sun just coming out through a layer of delicate grey. Reminded me why I cycle.
Coming home was less pleasant, colder and into the wind, but still pretty good.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 25 November, 2016, 11:14:51 pm
Quote from: Si S on 25 November, 2016, 10:21:09 am
............ the new tarmac in Stretford is just a little bit slippy.

It's so much better than the gravel and pot-hole strewn surface that preceded it though  :).

My ride in was extended by a detour to visit a friend who'd come off worse in a blue on blue bike on bike collision; broken pelvis and bleeding in the brain. He's well on the mend but a little stir crazy from being house bound.

Coming home was really cold but the wind had dropped so it wasn't too bad. I think I'm going to start using the heavy gloves.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 26 November, 2016, 01:32:35 pm
Yesterday's cycle home was very nice.  It was sunny, and the GPS told me it was the last day that sunset was not before 4pm.  I don't expect many more sunny commutes, until the warmer seasons start next year.  Even leaving at 3am, it was still dark before I got home. :(

They've also put the mandatory cycle path markings back onto Chelsea Bridge Road (https://goo.gl/maps/6U3ydrLXLW32).  I really don't understand why they keep in removing them for a couple of days, and then putting them back down.  I think this is the third time they've done it, and each time it's done by someone with a more shaky hand and the surface gets poorer and poorer.  Really quite bizarre.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 28 November, 2016, 09:44:38 am
Felt hard today after a week off.

I saw someone struggling up Notting Hill Gate. As I passed him, I noticed he had no sprocket on the rear, well he definitely did not have a cassette there.

Can a chain move on a hub only - I didn't think so?

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Palinurus on 28 November, 2016, 11:32:20 am
Quote from: velosam on 28 November, 2016, 09:44:38 am
Felt hard today after a week off.

I saw someone struggling up Notting Hill Gate. As I passed him, I noticed he had no sprocket on the rear, well he definitely did not have a cassette there.

Can a chain move on a hub only - I didn't think so?

one of those singlespeed conversion kits for wheels intended to take cassettes perhaps- with wide spacers either side of the sprocket? If there was a rear mech fitted might have been using it as a tensioner.

Might look a bit like this from behind

(http://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/DSCN1278-300x400.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 28 November, 2016, 11:58:41 am
Quote from: velosam on 28 November, 2016, 09:44:38 am
Felt hard today after a week off.

I saw someone struggling up Notting Hill Gate. As I passed him, I noticed he had no sprocket on the rear, well he definitely did not have a cassette there.

Can a chain move on a hub only - I didn't think so?

I guess we know why he was struggling then!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 28 November, 2016, 04:47:59 pm
Good and sunny, not too cold.  Not too impressed by the chap smoking in the bike shed on arrival - rather than the 'designated smoking area' a bit further along...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jsabine on 29 November, 2016, 08:52:37 am
Absolutely. He should have been behind the shed, not in it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 29 November, 2016, 08:54:51 am
Winter is on the way - there was ice in my beard when I got here this morning
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 29 November, 2016, 09:24:04 am
Proper cold and the chutney is nicely frozen.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 29 November, 2016, 10:13:40 am
Sunny n cold*, but I was warm.  No ice - too dry I guess.

 (https://c4.staticflickr.com/6/5575/30505786043_3dbbc04b05_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/NtG8ok)VIRB0631-Towards Sutton Courtenay (https://flic.kr/p/NtG8ok) by ao (https://www.flickr.com/photos/25983110@N05/), on Flickr

In years gone by, Didcot cloud generator would have been in action...

*-2.5C when I set off.  Was wearing overshoes/leg & arm warmers/base layer shorts & vest/medium weight jacket/buff/skull cap/toastie gloves.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Salvatore on 29 November, 2016, 12:02:51 pm
From a strava contact in Mumbai (where it's a balmy 30º) this morning:
Quote
Had a wheel out n had to stop cycling nhad to take my bike for an autorickshaw ride

Not something I ever did in my however many years of commuting by bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 29 November, 2016, 12:30:02 pm
I told my wife  last night that this morning's commute was looking to be so cold that I was going to wear two tube garments round my neck, and when I got up this morning that's what I ended up doing. It was a double buff.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Palinurus on 29 November, 2016, 01:02:14 pm
Yesterday my colleagues were going on about how cold it was going to be so I was pleasantly surprised that it was pretty close freezing and not several below this morning. Pretty pleasant; had to take off the wooly hat to cool down.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 30 November, 2016, 08:36:31 am
Another beard-load of ice this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 30 November, 2016, 08:38:36 am
Amazing the difference a few degrees makes, 5 mins faster than yesterday and a whole lot easier.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mattc on 30 November, 2016, 08:54:55 am
Are seat clamp bolts more liable to breakage in sub-zero temperatures?

Just asking, like, out of curiosity ...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 30 November, 2016, 06:19:38 pm
I ended up in late today after having to go home and change bikes. I'm pretty certain this isn't supposed to happen: -
(https://c8.staticflickr.com/6/5556/30532134703_83a49ebafe_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/Nw2aVz)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 30 November, 2016, 06:40:27 pm
Many materials have a ductile-brittle transition temperature. Often that temperature is somewhere close to zero for cheaper alloys of various materials. Cracks grow much, much faster in a brittle failure.

There are also different expansion rates for various materials e.g. aluminium shrinks more for a specific temperature drop than steel.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 01 December, 2016, 12:58:27 am
I wimped out of decided against cycling in on Tuesday and I took the car instead. I can't say I regretted it, especially when the temperature was -4deg. C when I got back to base.
Since the temperatures rose significantly yesterday (Wednesday) I used the bike. It was OK; I didn't have the "get a move on" mojo so I cruised along in both directions. I'd still have preferred to drive home but I suppose that's a consequence of shifts that finish at 23.00.
Bike again tomorrow I think.

 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 01 December, 2016, 06:25:27 am
Rear light started off what appeared to be near enough full on but by the end of the ride it had faded to nothing. Apparently an insufficiency of warm voles, as it sprang back into life. Never seen that effect on  alkaline cells - one of the reasons I use them instead of rechargeables, although to be fair the "full on" wasn't really with only just over one vole present in the warm.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 01 December, 2016, 08:47:14 am
Much warmer today, although I nearly came a cropper at the bottom of dip on Church Road where the road sweeper had pushed all the leaves into a mahoosive pile
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 01 December, 2016, 10:03:59 am
Bloody cold her this morning. I had wheel spin whilst climbing Quarry Wood Road!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 01 December, 2016, 10:47:12 am
First ever contact with a vehicle while on the bike last nigh. May any future contacts be as innocuous.

In a stream of traffic, parked cars to the left, but being passed.  All OK. I was approaching a LH bend in the road and a 4x4 passed a bit too close for comfort.  It happens. But then I found out it was pulling a trailer which was a bit wider and I was being squeezed as it was going round the bend. The back part of the trailer just brushed against my thigh.

I managed to keep up with it and after a mile it was pulling in and the passenger had got out to open a gate to a garage lot.  I took the opportunity to let the driver know that his driving was bad and that he'd hit me.  His answer was that he couldn't pull out too far because of the trailer. I pointed out that that meant he should not have attempted to overtake me in the first place, and that, given that we'd arrived there at pretty much the same time he hadn't even saved time.  At that point there seemed little point in debating further, and his passenger was returning so it would have been 2 against 1, so I went on my way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 01 December, 2016, 12:21:08 pm
Interesting stats today about CSH in London. North-South route has a high peak of 26 riders per MINUTE! and East-West route has a high peak of 20 per MINUTE for rush hour. However we only account for 30% of space being taken up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 02 December, 2016, 08:34:20 am
I wondered what the funny noise was on the bike recently but just put it down to drivetrain grumbles, the big ring has at least one broken tooth. It transpires that particular noise wasn't the drivetrain, this became evident when the left hand pedal spindle snapped this morning and the noise went away.

Going to be a slow ride home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 02 December, 2016, 09:29:56 am
I'm finding it much more enjoyable to cycle around Hyde Park Corner and up/down Park Lane than to cut across HPC and through Hyde Park.  It may be down to in increase in numpties resulting from the WinterFair, or whatever it's called.  FTR: numpties = clueless peds, event staff randomly closing entrances into Hyde Park, and POBs who think all other should flee before them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 02 December, 2016, 09:33:13 am
Yesterday I was removing ice from extremities. This morning I was reaching for ice for my cooling drink on arrival.

Funny old world......
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 02 December, 2016, 11:38:18 am
Yes, after three days of below zero temperatures for my commute to work, even though it felt as cold getting out of bed, it was actually about 4°C this morning.

As an additional advantage, this did mean that the aging battery in my Fly6 rear-camera, actually lasted the entire commute, rather than dying after 50 minutes, as it did earlier in the week!

I overdid the clothing a mite too, wearing the "extra cold" base layer, but arriving at work very slightly more sweaty is a minor issue.  The weather has been entirely dry for the last few days, which is also very good. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 02 December, 2016, 12:10:56 pm
Peered out of the window this morning to see none of the cars were frosty or iced up on the window so dialled back on the layers a bit. Arrived at work less sweaty as a result.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 02 December, 2016, 04:29:57 pm
Saw a rider with bar mittens like these:

(http://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/UlIAAOSw3xJVXXUX/s-l300.jpg)

Sometimes in the seventies you'd see mopeds with a set-up like that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 02 December, 2016, 09:13:37 pm
The heavens appeared to have sprung a leak this evening, which was unexpected and unwelcome.  Fortunately I was suitably attired.

Rants to appear in the relevant thread.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 02 December, 2016, 09:16:45 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 02 December, 2016, 09:13:37 pm
The heavens appeared to have sprung a leak this evening, which was unexpected and unwelcome.  Fortunately I was suitably attired.

Rants to appear in the relevant thread.
It is rain.
It isn't snow.
Be thankful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 05 December, 2016, 11:54:44 am
-8.5 on the way in this morning. Brr.
-8.7 on the way home.

https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1473000589

(I see Garmin Connect truncates the decimal places on the temperature log rather than retaining the original data or rounding it.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 05 December, 2016, 12:34:31 pm
Quote from: Si S on 02 December, 2016, 08:34:20 am
I wondered what the funny noise was on the bike recently but just put it down to drivetrain grumbles, the big ring has at least one broken tooth. It transpires that particular noise wasn't the drivetrain, this became evident when the left hand pedal spindle snapped this morning and the noise went away.

Going to be a slow ride home.

This made me chuckle (because of the way it was written, not schadenfreude). How was the homeward trip?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nethypete on 05 December, 2016, 05:02:59 pm
Quote from: Feanor on 05 December, 2016, 11:54:44 am
-8.5 on the way in this morning. Brr.

-10 C in the Strath today , add in bike speed and this equates to a windchill of -19.3 C ....ffffff flippin' cold. :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 06 December, 2016, 01:27:47 pm
It was +9°C this morning, which was substantially warmer than the +1°C of yesterday morning, although it didn't feel like that at 5am, when I needed to get out of bed!

It has actually gotten duller, since then.  A slight haze earlier on has been replaced by a more substantial haze, that basically makes the world all a bit dull and grey, with absolutely no sign of the sun. :(

It is dry though, so not all bad.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 06 December, 2016, 01:41:27 pm
This morning was clear and uncold for my commute but, within half an hour of arrival, fog had settled- the sort of fog that feels like walking through the mist created by a pinhole leaking hose.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 06 December, 2016, 01:41:33 pm
Not much fog as I set off, but somewhat thicker as I went past Gatwick. A nice surprise to see Steph striding down the footway, looking good.  Several motorists in unlit cars, which coupled with the fashion for grey paint didn't seem the best choice. (OTOH I did see them).  Actually chatted with another cyclist as I went past the former Royal Earlswood Hospital on the cycle path, badly covered in chutney. He warned me that my pannier was about to fall off, but I explained it wasn't, it was an Altura laptop case and mounts on the piss to give heel clearance. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 06 December, 2016, 09:45:40 pm
Wet.
That is all.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 07 December, 2016, 07:16:05 pm
Well.  I've had colder rides to work in mid-summer. It's bonkers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 07 December, 2016, 08:30:49 pm
Walking out to my bike in the rain, after a work day three hours longer than normal, is not the time I wanted to discover a flat rear tyre :(
I couldn't find any reason for the flat either.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 07 December, 2016, 09:29:15 pm
Bummer. At least it wasn't snowing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 08 December, 2016, 08:14:45 am
Like cycling through a pond.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 08 December, 2016, 08:55:04 am
Quote from: TheLurker on 07 December, 2016, 07:16:05 pm
Well.  I've had colder rides to work in mid-summer. It's bonkers.

Yup, and last week I had a commute, which was probably the coldest one for three years!

I suppose that UK weather being a bit random and unpredictable, shouldn't really be much of a surprise. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 08 December, 2016, 09:51:52 am
It's warm enough for sandals. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 08 December, 2016, 11:20:37 am
Quote from: Feanor on 05 December, 2016, 11:54:44 am
-8.5 on the way in this morning. Brr.
-8.7 on the way home.

And yesterday?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 08 December, 2016, 11:26:04 am
<checks GPS log>

Steady 10 on the way in, 11 on the way home.
A fair temperature swing over 2 days!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 08 December, 2016, 12:30:45 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 08 December, 2016, 09:51:52 am
It's warm enough for sandals.

Indeed.  First ever December ride for me in sandals and shorts.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 08 December, 2016, 12:33:58 pm
Quote from: Nuncio on 08 December, 2016, 12:30:45 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 08 December, 2016, 09:51:52 am
It's warm enough for sandals.

Indeed.  First ever December ride for me in sandals and shorts.

Not sure if I've ridden in sandals in December, but I definitely have in January.  In spite of the 'warm' weather I'm not using my sandals to avoid faff of changing footwear.  For now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 08 December, 2016, 12:50:43 pm
Given the rain here out west it wasn't a difficult decision this morning. The thought of sticking feet into squelchy socks/shoes  before going home swayed it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 09 December, 2016, 08:55:57 am
Could have done with shorts this morning. Had to stop and bodge the front mech onto the big ring, the shifter is borked, I think that'll be a perma-bodge.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 12 December, 2016, 08:22:46 am
No legs, getting dropped left, right and centre.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 12 December, 2016, 09:40:15 am
Quote from: Si S on 12 December, 2016, 08:22:46 am
No legs, getting dropped left, right and centre.

+1, felt awful.

On the other hand saw a lady with a lovely electric bike and someone really quick on a Brompton on the Euston Road.  Unfortunately he also decided to bounce every red light he saw, so great legs but a bit of a twat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 12 December, 2016, 03:13:52 pm
Run out to T*sco on my first day off for the mega shop, and I had a truly dismal tide back.  That was only the start of it. I came down Victoria Road past the station, approaching the roundabout where I turn R onto Balcombe Road, check behind, let one car pass, spot the gap, indicate, pull right---and the next car, as I approached the traffic island, pulled out to overtake me and as she drew level started to cut in hard at me. Not even school run time, but she was looking straight ahead and not at me in bright yellow with my lights on.

I used my audible warning device "OI! STOP!" and she stopped dead, just before the island. I think she may have stalled. I grabbed the space in front of her that I would have been in and set off across the roundabout, just as a horn started to blow constantly. Mrs idiot then passed me--carefully!- and was followed by the punishment pass I expected from Twatty Hornblower. Number taken, but got the bastard wrong in the stress of things, as Surrey Drive Smart have just notified me. VK56CDG is what I memorised, but...

Dark blue estate or similar. Watch out for it. Driver's a twat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 12 December, 2016, 04:05:35 pm
Quote from: Si S on 12 December, 2016, 08:22:46 am
No legs, getting dropped left, right and centre.

Well, your fastest 200k on Saturday and NO ginger cordial - what do you expect!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 13 December, 2016, 07:55:56 pm
For the first time in forever I forgot my clothes, so had to use the Emergency T-Shirt. Then I had to get back home sharpish and had a visitation. Ho Hum. At least I collected, from a charming lady with the broadest Irish brogue "Chasing a christmas tree is more fun than chasing an arse"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 14 December, 2016, 08:57:02 am
Just plain lazy at the minute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 14 December, 2016, 11:01:43 am
First ride (or exercise of any kind) in a month. Took about the same time as usual.

The first third of the ride was spent thinking I'd have been too hot if I'd worn my winter boots and the last two thirds wishing I had them on. Coooold toes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 14 December, 2016, 02:28:14 pm
Brommie and train due to beering engagement.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 14 December, 2016, 03:23:28 pm
So was riding to work and I was approaching towards Vauxhall gyratory system (lovely) when I heard the blues and twos behind me so pulled over in the bus lane to the side at the red traffic lights and a mercedes came flying past with the indicators being the blues. Anyways at the exact time, I was being overtaken by a boris cyclist who adopted the aero position on it and sped through the lights NARROWLY missing the car that has stopped at the red and was slowly moving to the left to let the Mercedes through the gap and then the lights did change to green at that time too!

So I rode through the lights and carried on watching the merc, it slowed down next to the aero boris man who was blissfully unware that they wanted him to stop. He eventually stopped and two undercover policemen got out of the car and gave him the biggest bollocking EVER! I don’t know if it was cos he went through the red or he put himself in danger for going through the red and the car that pulled to the left. They got back into the car and sped off to the emergency!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 14 December, 2016, 10:14:10 pm
Pretty sure I rode right through the middle of a drugs deal. Unless people just meet up in shit cars to have a chat through the windows. One reversed down a bit as I arrived so i indicated right and turned off and they did a little wheel spin for some reason.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 15 December, 2016, 08:48:14 am
After pooping the Christmas party rode home with my buddy for a change who actually made me put some effort into it. A flat at then end resulted in pump, ride, pump, ride for the last couple of miles home last night as I realised I was not carrying a spare tube.

Nagging cross headwind this morning but still the quickest I've been all week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 15 December, 2016, 12:41:21 pm
After last night's commute I am now in that no-man's-land where the 1.6:1 km to miles conversion is not accurate enough for my 2016 target of 10,000 miles (having done more than 16.000km but not quite reached my total).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 15 December, 2016, 08:08:40 pm
Two miles out from Ciren. (Ampney Crucis - ish) caught up with another commuter. _Very_ unusual as not many of us on that route.  Bike had a decent rear light but only a glow worm on the front so kept company to share my lamps 'til we hit the street-lights at the edge of town.    We had a wee chat and it turns out until a month ago he couldn't ride a bike at all and now here he is commuting. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 15 December, 2016, 09:28:12 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 15 December, 2016, 08:08:40 pm
We had a wee chat and it turns out until a month ago he couldn't ride a bike at all and now here he is commuting.

 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 16 December, 2016, 08:59:43 am
Was incredibly mild today.  Had to potter in as was not feeling too well.  Hopefully this will be my last commute of the year. If it all goes to plan today, by the end of the day I will be about 5 miles off my target for the year.

Actually by some quirk and a few extra miles hit 6k km today, so I am done for the year.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 16 December, 2016, 09:18:58 am
E      M      P     T     Y ...........

What a nice ride in, wherever people are, pls to be staying there forever.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 19 December, 2016, 08:24:04 am
It's going to a long week, this is one of my least favourite commuting weeks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 19 December, 2016, 10:22:06 am
"The schools are off.
The cars are gone.
Simply having,
a wonderful
Christmas time."

And you know what? I hate that song. Looked out the front of the house this morning before cycling off, and spotted 2 empty car spaces. An event I felt duty bound to pass on to my wife.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 21 December, 2016, 08:30:55 am
One of those mornings which culminated in a slip in the shower followed by rolling around clutching my knee feeling  :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 21 December, 2016, 08:57:29 am
Left late last night, the rain didn't damp the stink of hotdogs and burgers from the Xmas market. This morning was drier, roads quieter than normal but that means faster (and more impatient) traffic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 21 December, 2016, 09:26:31 am
First ride of the week (previous two days involved long train journeys). It was completely uneventful.

However on arrival at work I found a colleague trying to straighten his left pedal after a hit and run from a car that pulled out of a side turn in front of him. He hit the side of the car and the deck but apparently not too hard, driver stopped looked at him and then drove off.

I suggested 101 to report the incident but without the number plate tracing the driver will take more police leg work than they are likely to have available.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 21 December, 2016, 12:56:37 pm
Plop.

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0Zl5furJwMI/WFp7ln9cdAI/AAAAAAAA8Zw/P-NZOq0V1JkX3NjVb2X3bmRHb7h-l0ryACPcB/s640/IMG_20161221_085437.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nethypete on 21 December, 2016, 11:06:19 pm
Last commute of the year - cold and uneventful. Poor year by my usual standards only managing to cycle 54% of days largely due to a prolonged injury early in the year. Three seconds more daylight to look forward to tomorrow so might lie in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 22 December, 2016, 08:22:29 am
A combination of running late to laziness, being slightly under dressed for the weather, a tailwind and getting a tow off a non stopping bus made for the quickest commute for a while.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 22 December, 2016, 12:53:35 pm
I had to get into work early today so was greeted by beautiful foggy scenes as I sailed past Big Ben (only white clock face was showing) London Eye and all that jazz and by the time i got to work 10 mins left, it all lifted! Nice!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 22 December, 2016, 10:56:02 pm
Soaked in the morning, battled against strong headwind on the way back.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 22 December, 2016, 11:29:37 pm
I fell over. Icy roads. Thought I was being careful enough but the bike went from under me on a slow left-hand turn. I'm a little achy of left knee, hip, shoulder and head, but nothing major. Renewed respect for weather.

I noticed that I was a bit tense for the rest of the journey in, and the first half of the journey home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 23 December, 2016, 08:46:08 am
Last night was a case of dodging the phone zombies, drunks and stoners, then there were the pedestrians.

Roll on early finish, its been a long week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 23 December, 2016, 09:10:06 am
Quote from: Paul on 22 December, 2016, 11:29:37 pm
I fell over. Icy roads. Thought I was being careful enough but the bike went from under me on a slow left-hand turn. I'm a little achy of left knee, hip, shoulder and head, but nothing major. Renewed respect for weather.

I noticed that I was a bit tense for the rest of the journey in, and the first half of the journey home.

Ouch!

How's the bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 23 December, 2016, 09:10:29 am
A wee bit breezy this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 23 December, 2016, 12:25:25 pm
Quote from: Pingu on 23 December, 2016, 09:10:06 am
Quote from: Paul on 22 December, 2016, 11:29:37 pm
I fell over. Icy roads. Thought I was being careful enough but the bike went from under me on a slow left-hand turn. I'm a little achy of left knee, hip, shoulder and head, but nothing major. Renewed respect for weather.

I noticed that I was a bit tense for the rest of the journey in, and the first half of the journey home.

Ouch!

How's the bike.

The only damage I can see is some (further) scratching to the brake levers.

Slightly stiff this morning, but nothing major.

Quote from: Pingu on 23 December, 2016, 09:10:29 am
A wee bit breezy this morning.

Haven't they given out strong winds today/tomorrow? Watch yourself.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 23 December, 2016, 02:10:29 pm
Yes take care, it's rough enough down here that I've had trouble holding onto the front wheel, deity knows what it's like up there
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Asterix, the former Gaul. on 28 December, 2016, 01:18:24 pm
Treacherous conditions in York - sunny but with the shady roads covered in invisible ice.  The guy in front of me was out with his 10-11 year old son.  The young lad took a tumble but got up smiling, I think it's easier when you are small!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 28 December, 2016, 01:32:46 pm
Slept through my alarm, waking at about the time I should have left for work. I rode in anyway, fairly gingerly on the corners. I must have taken my work shoes home for a polish back in August. I'm currently wearing SPDs round the office.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 28 December, 2016, 01:50:28 pm
Quote from: asterix on 28 December, 2016, 01:18:24 pm
Treacherous conditions in York - sunny but with the shady roads covered in invisible ice.  The guy in front of me was out with his 10-11 year old son.  The young lad took a tumble but got up smiling, I think it's easier when you are small!

Being closer to the ground means not so far to fall.......
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 28 December, 2016, 02:29:20 pm
Very quiet roads. QUiet weather too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 28 December, 2016, 02:33:45 pm
Hard frost and a freezing fog that was doing its best to turn into powder snow---the air full of ice crystals--at 0550. Absolutely without wind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 29 December, 2016, 09:47:08 pm
While there was frost on some parked cars last night, there was frost on the roads (OK, mostly CS3) this evening.  By the time I got home my toes were getting cold (no, I was not wearing sandals, but socks and shoes).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 29 December, 2016, 11:17:26 pm
Pleasant ride today, pretty much uneventful but ticked over 900km/month for 2016 today which was as much a target as anything I had in mind. Feeling quite good about that, so will have another lagunitas IPA.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 30 December, 2016, 07:39:11 am
First outing for the studded tyres this morning (bought over a year ago, but last winter was too warm).

They're good aren't they?  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: the straggler on 30 December, 2016, 08:40:18 am
It's my 2nd best bike upgrade part after a brooks saddle. In it's 3rd year 700x40c marathon winter tyres on my ice winter hybrid has been faultless on my occasional icy 1 hr each way commute to work. Works well on soft snow as well by dropping tyre pressure. The version I have only have studs on the shoulders. Great confidence booster - I cannot recall having experienced major loss of traction with these yet. Did a frosty club ride 3 weeks ago where a club mate came off 1 mile from finish on a a sharp sun shaded bend at midday. Only negative bit is road noise generated but that's no big issue for me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 30 December, 2016, 10:20:35 am
I don't have winter tyres so the last two days have been car commutes. My hips, collar bones, elbows, knees etc. all thank me.

This morning was particularly bad- nearly went arse over tit walking to the car!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 30 December, 2016, 10:30:35 am
Most of this morning's commute was spent wiping fog off my glasses. It wasn't needed in the last 500m as I walked that bit, not wanting to fix a flat so close to work. Something to fettle at lunchtime, I guess.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 03 January, 2017, 09:31:04 am
First day back on the bike before Christmas. It was one of those holidays that meant, time-wise, I couldn't fit in a ride. Oh well. Happy New Year, etc, etc.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 03 January, 2017, 09:43:03 am
fboab took the crackly tyres this morning - the road was festively sparkly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 03 January, 2017, 09:47:22 pm
GN: Fewer brain-dead tourists in central London.

BN: Morer brain-dead commuters in central London.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 04 January, 2017, 05:35:23 pm
A surprisingly quiet commutes today.  I decided to start a day later than I had to, which turned out to be a wise decision given the frost yesterday, and the mild weather this morning.  The traffic was a bit quieter this morning, but a lot less busy on the way home.  I almost managed to get home in under an hour, which is very unusual at this time of year.  Presumably a lot of people are taking this week off, and going back to work next Monday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 05 January, 2017, 08:11:24 am
Very cold today which seems to have put off the New Year joggers that were everywhere yesterday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: trekker12 on 05 January, 2017, 10:11:29 am
An Emu, or an Ostrich, I'm afraid I don't know the difference and it was too cold to get the phone out and take a picture.

In a country lane north of Woodbridge in Suffolk, I had to dismount and walk past four sugar beet lorries being filled up. As I walked past on the edge of the muddy field said Emu/Ostrich was wandering around the field picking up scraps for food.

Quite glad it ignored me, I don't think I have the speed to outrun it!

Do they migrate for winter?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 05 January, 2017, 11:25:33 am
You sure it wasn't a rhea ? (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-cambridgeshire-38454589)

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 05 January, 2017, 01:01:00 pm
Quote from: trekker12 on 05 January, 2017, 10:11:29 am
An Emu, or an Ostrich, I'm afraid I don't know the difference and it was too cold to get the phone out and take a picture.

In a country lane north of Woodbridge in Suffolk, I had to dismount and walk past four sugar beet lorries being filled up. As I walked past on the edge of the muddy field said Emu/Ostrich was wandering around the field picking up scraps for food.

Quite glad it ignored me, I don't think I have the speed to outrun it!

Do they migrate for winter?

They would fly south but they can't get passports.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: trekker12 on 05 January, 2017, 04:11:07 pm
Well if it's the Rhea from Cambridgeshire it certainly walked a fair distance.

The Beet lorry drivers didn't seem to notice anything unusual with it hanging around.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: trekker12 on 06 January, 2017, 09:40:44 am
Wasn't him

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-cambridgeshire-38506531
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 06 January, 2017, 01:44:09 pm
First commute of the year and was painfully slow :-(.  Just have to get home now!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 06 January, 2017, 06:55:39 pm
First fairy visitation of the New Year, followed by the second visitation of the year. >:(

I checked the tyre carefully, for the first repair, and didn't find anything.  A couple of miles later, *bang* and it rapidly deflated.  it was so loud I thought that maybe the bead hadn't been seated correctly, and the inner tube had burst, but it was just a normal hole.  I think the relatively high pressure from using a CO2 cartridge made it fail more "excitingly" !  This time I easily found a piece of glass, even though it was darker and wetter.  Unlikely though it seems, I guess the two were unrelated incidents. :(

On the plus side, if it had happened on the way to work, frozen wheel removal would have been a lot harder work than wet but not too cold wheel removal.

After using up both spare inner tubes, and three of my four CO2 cartridges, I was worried that I'd have to resort to using the puncture repair kit and pump, should a third occur.  Luckily that was not necessary. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 06 January, 2017, 07:09:25 pm
Blimey. Two on one commute. That's very bad luck.

And, if I had to rely on anyone to find the offending sharp in a tyre, it would be you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 06 January, 2017, 09:18:02 pm
Full on flood across one of my roads on the way home this evening. It was deeper than my shoes at the bottom of the pedal stroke, and the stretch was too long to coast through. My shoes are currently drying on the radiator.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 09 January, 2017, 08:16:33 am
Took a lot to get going this morning, really just wanted to stay in bed, but it was surprisingly mild with a decent tailwind, suspect I'm going to be overdressed for the return leg.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 09 January, 2017, 09:27:39 am
Packed! And still you get those twats that wants to maintain their 18mph average along a congested Cycle highway! Just fuck off!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 09 January, 2017, 12:01:26 pm
Busy ride in today!
I felt sorry for the bus passengers, there were literally strings of six or seven buses lined up, with a single HGV  blocking the lane with its mirrors, then a huge gap and the same thing repeated all down the length of my commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 10 January, 2017, 08:26:41 am
A tough one, even with the massive tailwind, felt like I was going to bonk at any moment, very strange.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 10 January, 2017, 07:17:56 pm
Drama!  Battenburg (hmmm cake) and blue and white  tape all over the forecourt at Fairford petrol station this morning and an abandoned agricultural forklift.  Hmm, "Ram raid" I thinks to myself as I pottered past.  Checking the local press this evening I find the cash machine and several thousand quids worth of fags were nicked about midnight. 

It's a bugger for Fairford residents; that was their nearest 24 hour cash machine.  The last bank in town closed a few months ago taking the only 24 hour cash machine with it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 11 January, 2017, 08:23:35 am
Got home last night and straight to bed forgetting to set the alarm, 13 hours later and I've overslept by 45 mins. I suppose if you'r e going to do it the day with the 40mph tailwind is the day to do it, 8 mins late to work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 11 January, 2017, 07:25:35 pm
Gorgeous moon both work bound and home bound.  This morning it was almost orange showing through wind-torn cloud; think heavy metal LP cover or, this for the ex Watt contingent,  the mural in the Grindlay St. union only without the bird.

Wind not so bad here, bit of a slog, but not much worse than usual winter wind conditions.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 12 January, 2017, 08:20:21 am
Incredibly tough going home last night, saw one chap just get blown to a dead stop.

Left the house this morning then went back to swap the shell and lightweight gloves for the full kit and kaboodle - cold, wet and wild.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jakob W on 12 January, 2017, 04:29:48 pm
Crikey that was a bit miserable on the way home; despite wearing leather gloves and silk liners my hands were frozen.  Will have to find the softshell gloves before tomorrow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nethypete on 12 January, 2017, 05:50:37 pm
Into the gums of developing Higland blizzard tonight. If the forecasts are right tomorrow will be fun. Type 3 fun that is.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 12 January, 2017, 06:11:18 pm
I'm not sure I'm enjoying my rides home from work at the moment.

Friday was paddling, yesterday was into the teeth of a gale. Today was into heavy hurty hail - and I forgot my glasses :facepalm:

Ow!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 12 January, 2017, 09:40:31 pm
A nice enough cycle in this morning, and I was resigned to getting a bit wet on the way home.

On the commute home, just over a mile from work, already fairly wet ... <Bang> ...

There was nowhere that could provide any shelter from the rain, so I just stopped and started changing the inner tube in the fairly heavy rain.

Unfortunately, once I looked at it, the tyre sidewall had split, with at least 2cm of complete failure, and maybe another 2cm about to fail.  I tried booting it, but with maybe 20psi of pressure, it already started bulging too much.  I could only pump it up enough that the bike could be pushed easily.

So ... I pushed the bike back to work, locked it up, went back to the office, and swapped my wet cycling clothes back to office wear.

By that time, it was peak rush hour, so I twiddled my thumbs for an hour or so, to make travel home slightly less frustrating.

I need to look very carefully at the other tyre, and decide how long it's going to last too.

<Meh>
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 13 January, 2017, 07:45:48 am
Ye gods! That biting head wind and sub-zero temperature made the ride in on the remains of yesterdays rain quite interesting
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 13 January, 2017, 08:42:18 am
Woke up to a white world with sleet falling that was freezing on the road, no problem thinks I, ride the ice bike. Some issues:

 1) No pedals - quick grub around produced some flats with toe-clips
 B) No saddle - throw one out the bits box on
 iii) Obviously forgot to clean the drivetrain at the end of last winter  :facepalm: chain and mech seized, half a tin of GT85, half a tub of wet         lube, half an hour and a barrel full of f words later its running.

2 miles in I hit a hidden pothole and the rear light flies off since I'd forgot the bracket was dodgy and not cable tied the light on, cue grubbing around in the ice and slush in the gutter to find the end cap, didn't bother looking for the batteries, just fitted the spares.

The remainder was slow but sure footed tyred, going to be very hard into the wind on that bike tonight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 13 January, 2017, 09:06:28 am
Bit of a saga, Si.
4C, clear roads and tailwind.  No such faffing about here.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris N on 13 January, 2017, 09:15:17 am
Just a light dusting of snow when I left the house but fifteen minutes later the wind had picked up and the snow started falling heavily and sticking, particularly on the ungritted sections of the route.  Took about 20 minutes longer than usual - not just because of the headwind but also because my mudguards kept clogging with snow so I had to stop and clear it out.  It stopped just after I got to work, and look like it's thawing now. ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ray 6701 on 13 January, 2017, 10:11:47 am
I was involved in a rtc with a lorry on Tuesday morning.  Approaching the M42 jct 10 island from Tamworth the lorry ahead of me moved to the middle lane indicating that he was either heading straight across or turning right towards Kingsbury or possibly south on the M42.  I continued on to the island to cross to the other side of the A5.  The lorry once on the island changed direction completely & changed back to the inside lane side swiping me out of the way & disappeared down the M42 heading North (i didn't get a reg number).


I got my bike working again & cycled home before being taken to the Hospital to be cleaned & stitched up.  I went to the police station the same day to report the incident.  I still need to take photos of the damage to my bike & clothes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 13 January, 2017, 10:42:00 am
Sounds nasty Fungus.  I'm always incredibly wary of large vehicles, especially construction traffic.  A car cutting across you is bad news, a lorry doing the same is extremely bad news.  :-\ :(

At least it doesn't sound like anything too permanent happened to you.

<smug mode> Unlike Si, I got my snow bike ready yesterday evening. </smug mode>

I did have to fiddle around with it, a bit.  I'd "borrowed" both QR skewers, so had to find replacements, and I also needed to fit another rear light, adjust a spare pannier, and pump the tyres up.

Following yesterday's "fun" with sidewalls, I've now got two bicycles, and two sets of cycle clothing (including two sets of shoes!) at work, so have to decide how to get stuff back home. :)

I did need the studded tyres this morning, I crossed quite a bit of ice near my home, and on Tooting Bec Common, but saw very few other cyclists, and quite light motorised traffic too.  As Si also said, it is going to be hard work going home.  I can't pump the rear tyre up too hard, because it'll hit the frame, the studded tyres only just fit, so it won't be the easiest return commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 13 January, 2017, 12:53:18 pm
Cyclehighway by embankment was gritted! Sailed into work! Let's see what happens on the way back though. Very light cycling traffic too!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 13 January, 2017, 01:43:56 pm
last nights ride home into driving sleet was 'entertaining'. On arrival, before going indoors I had to jump up and down. As I did so, a second skin of slush and ice fell off everything ;D

This morning, I looked outside and saw that were were clear of snow but there was ice on everything. Knowing that one section of my commute turns to glass in these conditions meant that self preservation had me driving to work.

Hey ho. At least I can transport the DeWalt drill case home that I am going to convert to a telescope accessory case.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 13 January, 2017, 05:11:32 pm
Quote from: TimO on 13 January, 2017, 10:42:00 am
... As Si also said, it is going to be hard work going home.  I can't pump the rear tyre up too hard, because it'll hit the frame, the studded tyres only just fit, so it won't be the easiest return commute.

I was wrong, there was little wind when I cycled to work, but on the way home, there was wind behind me!

Just for once, the wind gods appeared to look benignly upon me.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 14 January, 2017, 11:24:00 am
Best puncture ever. My rear tyre had felt soft on Thursday night. I pumped it up and it held all the (short) way home. External inspection at home gave no clues. I decided to see if it remained inflated overnight before dismantling.

It was still up in the am so I rode in without further checks. On the way home yesterday I started feeling the tell-tale bumps suggesting lost pressure. It was cold and dark and I'd had a hard day of it, but it wasn't raining/snowing and I was next to the local rugby club with it's well-lit car park and benches so pulled in to do what I should have done the previous day.

As I started work I felt good. I was already wearing a head torch and my bifocal cycling specs and I was warm and dry. I had a spare tube and pump. I inspected the tyre again just to be sure: still no signs of ingress. When I took the tube out I realised a section of it was kinked. I vaguely remembered that this tube seemed a little too big when fitting it (though it was marked as appropriate for the tyre). I hadn't realised that there was enough spare tube to kink inside the tyre though. Sure enough the kinked bit had split.

I checked very carefully the inside of the tyre and, finding nothing, put the new (actually old and previously punctured and repaired) tube in, pumped it up and set off happily.

I don't know exactly why I enjoyed the whole thing so much. But that afternoon I'd had to pursue an application at the employment tribunal which I had been apprehensive about for some time. The application was one which is sometimes (but rarely) successful, so I knew I was pushing against the current, but there was some merit in it and, if successful, it would have saved a good deal of time and costs. It went worse than I'd imagined, but not as bad as possible. After 2 hours my application was dismissed, but we didn't suffer any penalty. I'm glad I gave it a shot.

But I was gladder that it was done. I think that the relief of that being out of the way put me in a wonderful mood, such that even a puncture on a cold, dark ride home couldn't phase me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 16 January, 2017, 08:53:54 am
First day after a week off and another puncture. Left the pump at home, so a walk from Paddington to Euston.

M+ are not proving as invincible as I expected.

So have been soaked 4 times this year already, and two punctures. Not a great start
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DuncanM on 16 January, 2017, 09:00:30 am
Minor bike/car collision between 2 others that I feel somewhat responsible for.  :(

I was in the car, coming up Cowley Road. The weather was crap – grey, raining, all the cars have their lights and wipers on. There was a stationary car coming the other way indicating right, so I slowed and flashed them across in front of me. As they sorted out the car (got it into gear, took the handbrake off etc) a cyclist (looked like a student – grey top, no lights, beanie on and headphones in) pulled out and started overtaking the queue behind this stationary car. You can guess what happened next. Car starts to turn tight, moves about a foot, and hits the cyclist with the front wing so that he slides on his hip down the bonnet onto the road sideways. He just gets up, dusts himself down and rides off.

The whole thing took about 3 seconds at most between light flash and cyclist on deck. I could see it unfold, and shouted (inside car – completely useless) “WHOA!”. Thankfully, it didn’t appear that anyone was hurt, and the speed was pretty low, but it was so frustrating watching it happen and feeling powerless.  Is there anything I could have done differently (aside from riding my bike!)?

Cheers
Duncan
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 16 January, 2017, 09:42:49 am
Hit the horn, perhaps?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 16 January, 2017, 12:18:56 pm
Quote from: DuncanM on 16 January, 2017, 09:00:30 am
Is there anything I could have done differently (aside from riding my bike!)?

Nope. The horn isn't, I think, for this situation.

And you aren't responsible. Just be happy no-one was (it seems) hurt and maybe that everyone learned something.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 16 January, 2017, 12:25:00 pm
What is the horn for, other than to use as a warning or to encourage the lower classes and beasts off the public highway?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 16 January, 2017, 12:28:03 pm
I agree with both.

You are not responsible, the cyclist is overtaking (and doing so where there are right hand turns is always not a good idea).

The horn may have helped, because he may have instinctively braked.

I use the horn to inform people I am there (especially on the scoot), a bit like how they use it in India. Although I think in India it also means I am here and coming through (depending on the size of the vehicle or the how the driver feels his karma is doing on the day!)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 16 January, 2017, 12:38:11 pm
Quote from: LittleWheelsandBig on 16 January, 2017, 12:25:00 pm
What is the horn for, other than to use as a warning or to encourage the lower classes and beasts off the public highway?

This is how I remember the rule: http://www.highwaycode.info/rule/112. (not that I remember it word for word).

I can see that there might be times to use your horn to warn others of a danger, but the problem with using your horn in that situation is that people generally try first to find the source of the horn, which might be a distraction from the actual danger.

Who knows, it might have worked here, or it might have made things worse.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 16 January, 2017, 12:50:51 pm
"You MUST NOT use your horn
while stationary on the road
when driving in a built-up area between the hours of 11.30 pm and 7.00 am
except when another road user poses a danger."

probably applied in this situation.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 16 January, 2017, 02:12:50 pm
If I hear a horn mid-manoeuvre, I'm likely to stop and check, so that may have helped.

On the other hand, horn use is so outside my usual driving habits, I probably wouldn't think to hit it quickly enough.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 16 January, 2017, 02:42:03 pm
Quote from: DuncanM on 16 January, 2017, 09:00:30 am
Is there anything I could have done differently (aside from riding my bike!)?
Possibly not let the oncoming car through? It was a courteous thing to do, but courtesy that in this case went against the "rules" and so created a slight upset to the normal order of things. TBH though it sounds like it was mostly the cyclist's fault; if I've understood it correctly, he was overtaking the car that was turning right, which is pretty definitely a not good thing to do.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DuncanM on 16 January, 2017, 03:10:43 pm
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 16 January, 2017, 02:42:03 pm
Quote from: DuncanM on 16 January, 2017, 09:00:30 am
Is there anything I could have done differently (aside from riding my bike!)?
Possibly not let the oncoming car through? It was a courteous thing to do, but courtesy that in this case went against the "rules" and so created a slight upset to the normal order of things. TBH though it sounds like it was mostly the cyclist's fault; if I've understood it correctly, he was overtaking the car that was turning right, which is pretty definitely a not good thing to do.
If I'd seen the cyclist before letting the driver go, I wouldn't have let him out. In the past (in good visibility) I have been known to point at approaching cyclists to communicate with other drivers, but I didn't think of it at the time, and I don't think it would have been very visible/obvious.
In my view, the cyclist (riding past a queue of cars with the front one indicating right) was the primary architect of the incident. The driver should have used his wing mirror to check nothing overtaking before executing his turn, so was the secondary architect. Observing it makes me thing that there was something I should have done, but...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jsabine on 17 January, 2017, 01:22:01 am
I think I'm with LWaB, that a good blast on the horn *might* have helped, if only because the other driver might have reacted to it by stopping mid-manoeuvre - I've got no illusions that it would have drawn anyone's attention to the developing hazard.

But aside from that, I thin both the cyclist and the other driver could have benefited from better observation - you should be aware of overtaking two-wheelers if you're pulling out of a traffic queue, and if you're riding that two-wheeler, you need to be aware of people who aren't aware of you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 17 January, 2017, 08:54:32 am
Cold ride in, but no punctures yah! :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SoreTween on 18 January, 2017, 01:08:31 pm
Does spending 10 minutes unfreezing a shed lock count as 'on' the commute?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 18 January, 2017, 07:54:34 pm
Quote from: fboab
To:Arriva North East

Hi 
 

I would like to complain about the driver of your 5/5A bus which passed me between Overfields Roundabout and the Pied Piper on Ormesby Bank coming out of Middlesbrough this evening. I was passed by 3 buses between 5:30 &5:40 but only the first driver felt the need to blow his horn and gesticulate aggressively at me. I have no idea what my perceived crime was, as I was merely slogging slowly up hill on my bicycle minding my own business. I neither swerved into the road nor behaved in a dangerous manner. 

Please could you remind your drivers that cyclists are permitted to use the roads and that it is good practice, as exemplified by his two colleagues, to pass wide when it is safe to do so, and otherwise leave them to get on with it? 


Thank you 

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris N on 20 January, 2017, 08:26:59 am
Overestimated the temperature out there this morning.  Took ages for my fingers to warm up once I'd got to work. :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 20 January, 2017, 03:15:39 pm
Not found today, but finally got around to taking a picture today. Crater by Ampney St. Mary (http://www.fillthathole.org.uk/hazard/134040/images)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 23 January, 2017, 08:51:27 am
Fed up with the hamstring issue stopping me from running, I did 1.5 hour's cycle on Saturday morning and 6 hours yesterday round East Sussex. Only one or two spots to be careful of on some of the country lanes, but lovely and sunny. Back aches now around my T5 vertebra area.

Straightforward few hundred yards cycle into work this morning. Nothing to report. Hard frost though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tippers_kiwi on 23 January, 2017, 11:43:34 am
I finally put the rack on the Croix De Fer this weekend so I can take my work stuff in a pannier instead of my backpack which is what was previously stopping me from opting for a longer commute home. I took the bike on the train today so will see how I do with getting off a couple of stops early and putting in some extra after work miles (unless things are already freezing up again by this evening).

My rear brake froze up on the way over to Witham, it has happened before and seems it is a known issue due to water ingress in the cable housing, it made sense once I read the reasoning. Will try a couple of the suggested solutions. I was wondering why riding up over the A12 was demanding so much effort this morning  :facepalm:

Riding from Stratford to Canary Wharf on the Croix was a lot more enjoyable than the Boris Bike!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 23 January, 2017, 11:52:42 am
Could really taste the diesel fumes in the air today, not what I needed when coupled with lurgy that just won't seem to go away.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DuncanM on 23 January, 2017, 11:54:34 am
Quote from: TheLurker on 20 January, 2017, 03:15:39 pm
Crater by Ampney St. Mary (http://www.fillthathole.org.uk/hazard/134040/images)
Dunno who Ampney St. Mary is, but if that's representative of their work, I'm not a fan!  :P
Cheers
Duncan
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 23 January, 2017, 01:13:19 pm
Took the main roads today, because of the risk of ice. This didn't stop the bike going all "whoahhh" as I rounded a bend on the Balcombe Road. I kept it upright though and realised I was riding on the thin layer of mud topped with ice. Gingerly eased the bike to the clear tarmac between the muddy tracks and carried on without incident. Phoned WSCC to report it, as the mud was most likely from a construction site and Shouldn't Be There. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 23 January, 2017, 01:36:05 pm
Very freezy on my ride in this morning.
I thought I'd give The Thames Path a gingerly go.
Another cyclist decided to follow. Too close behind me.
A cyclist coming towards me on approach to a chicane bit, braked and turned his bars to avoid me.
Schoolboy error.
I had already unclipped when he went down.
As I slowed gently, matey-too-close-behind must've grabbed his brake and he too went down.
No major injuries were had.
I elected at that point to return to the road and continue very gingerly to work.
As the forecast for the next three days is for colder weather, I think I'll deploy the ice bike ginger line :(
This post has more than its fair share of use of the word 'ginger'.
For no real reason.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 24 January, 2017, 11:05:08 am
^

That was a lovely 'Poem of the Day' Jurekkers. Thank you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 24 January, 2017, 12:51:39 pm
Zipping past a slow moving queueueueue, I noticed one driver tapping away on his mobile. I slowed down so he was alongside me and made a "put the phone down" gesture. He made a gesture which could be interpreted as meaning he'd be another two minutes,but I suspect not. .I pulled alongside again and told him he was a very rude man. Cock.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Socks on 24 January, 2017, 04:43:17 pm
First time I've been been able to complete the journey back home this afternoon, without need for lights.  Days are getting longer, winter might have a few surprises still but suddenly spring seems a bit closer.

And I become independent on 31st March, when my job is 'deleted' as a result of the cuts.  On the negative side, less money coming in unless I find other work; on the positive side, more time for cycling (and gardening, household chores etc). 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 24 January, 2017, 05:45:45 pm
First commute of the year today.

I've been off the bike due to injury since coming back from skiing.
I had a high-speed clatter on some very hard and unforgiving ice on the last day.
My ribs have only just stopped hurting.

It's noticeably lighter, and much more mild than I expected.
I was a little over-dressed and over-heated.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 25 January, 2017, 08:57:01 am
Welcome back.
It was very mild here too, dressed OK for it but stopped to take off gloves.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 25 January, 2017, 10:06:12 am
Oh for mild. I haven't cycled since 17th January because ice. I don't bounce like what I used to so the fear of broken bones makes me wimp out in this weather.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 25 January, 2017, 10:59:48 am
I really should sort out my bicycle computers if I'm going to record stats, instead of relying on my Garmin.  On my London commute, which is almost entirely E<->W on 'cycle superhighways', I think it is unlikely in the extreme that I have ever exceeded 80kph (which my eTrex has stated more than once this year).

For the record, I have exceeded 64kph/40mph no more than a handful of times, and only on some rather sizeable hills.  Such things are in rather short supply between East London and Mayfair (Col du Bow and Col du Canning Town don't really count).


EDIT: Supposed max speed lowere to 80kpH.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 25 January, 2017, 11:22:03 am
Quote from: Andrij on 25 January, 2017, 10:59:48 am
... On my London commute, which is almost entirely E<->W on 'cycle superhighways', I think it is unlikely in the extreme that I have ever exceeded 80kpm (which my eTrex has stated more than once this year) ...

Four times the speed of sound ...  :o  That does seem a little unlikely!

Whilst I've cycled across quite a lot of ice in the mornings for the last couple of weeks, it appears to have mostly been very thin frozen dew, on a few local roads near home and the cycle paths across the commons.  Whilst I've been judiciously nervous, I've only felt the wheel skid once, so I think it's mostly not a problem.  I've only resorted to using the bike with studded tyres once, and I suspect that was unnecessary.

It did seem a little lighter this morning, but I think that was more about relatively clear skies before the fog descended again, than the nights actually getting significantly shorter.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SoreTween on 25 January, 2017, 08:28:25 pm
Another visitation on the canal towpath.

In 9 months I've had 4 punctures of which 3 were on the Basingstoke canal between St Johns & Woking.  I've done 2285 km on the bike in that time.  A rough flick through strava I guesstimate I've used that towpath 30-40 times at about 2 km each.

3.5% of the miles, 75% of the punctures.  Hmmmm.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Asterix, the former Gaul. on 25 January, 2017, 08:58:25 pm
So you think you've had a bad day..

Chinese man cycles 500km in wrong direction to get home (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-china-38748373)


Quote
A man hoping to cycle home cross-country for Chinese New Year realised 30 days into his trip that he had been travelling in the wrong direction.

All was not lost even if he was..

Quote
The unnamed man could not read maps, meaning he had to rely on others for directions.
Police stopped him when he was riding on a highway, which cannot be used by cyclists.
After discovering his mistake, both police and people working at the toll station he was stopped at contributed to his ticket home
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 26 January, 2017, 01:44:01 pm
London was more gridlocked than usual. Still, bike wins the day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 January, 2017, 03:28:31 pm
First of the new commutes!

With a big crosswind roaring off the sea, and a short detour via Shoreham Fort, only to find I had completely missed the bridge I was aiming for, and run out of land.

But it was fun, tiring, and I had a sense of achievement.  Just got to ride home tonight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 26 January, 2017, 03:42:53 pm
So tomorrow you'll be commuting by pedalo?  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 January, 2017, 04:12:13 pm
Tomorrow, I shall be heading to Yorkshire! :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 26 January, 2017, 04:16:00 pm
Now that's what I call a commute  :D

Mine seems to be characterised by a whole new level of aggression from the evening motons lately, mind you Manc has been pretty much gridlocked in the evenings lately so that probably explains that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 26 January, 2017, 09:27:07 pm
Got home fine.  I enjoyed the ride very much.  31km is the longest day's ride I've done in ages.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 26 January, 2017, 09:27:23 pm
Quote from: clarion on 26 January, 2017, 04:12:13 pm
Tomorrow, I shall be heading to Yorkshire! :D

To make sure you arrive on time I suggest you leave home yesterday.  HTH.  O:-)



By the time I arrived home this evening I couldn't feel my toes. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 26 January, 2017, 10:38:34 pm
Quote from: clarion on 26 January, 2017, 04:12:13 pm
Tomorrow, I shall be heading to Yorkshire! :D
For a Brighton to Yorkshire commute I'd advise going via Bridgwater to have SJS fit some S&S couplings into your pedalo. This will mean you can fold it and take it on the train.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 26 January, 2017, 10:49:50 pm
Trains?! On the Southern network?! Don't make me laugh :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 27 January, 2017, 01:47:06 pm
Quote from: Ashaman42 on 26 January, 2017, 10:49:50 pm
Trains?! On the Southern network?! Don't make me laugh :)


He could get a Thameslink from Brighton.  One of those fancy 700 class jobs, that are configured like one big bendy corridor without doors between each carriage. Ideal for a game of skittles as you rattle your way north. (Sadly the bike accommodation on a 12 carriage set seems to be 2 x 2 spaces, rather than 3 x 2 as you'd find on a 377)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 28 January, 2017, 03:02:23 pm
Wish my commute was like that, Tim ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 28 January, 2017, 05:10:41 pm
It's weird, cos Tim seems to have recently watched a film where a bloke in a car overtakes a cyclist badly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 28 January, 2017, 08:58:56 pm
Marilyn has to be better than a knobber in a Mondeo, though, by any measure
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 30 January, 2017, 10:06:46 am
Lurgy seems to have settled in the lungs, wheezing along like a broken steam engine this morning, feels like I've been back on the fags.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 30 January, 2017, 12:49:15 pm
Quote from: Si S on 30 January, 2017, 10:06:46 am
Lurgy seems to have settled in the lungs, wheezing along like a broken steam engine this morning, feels like I've been back on the fags.

I felt like that on Sunday! Christ, it was hard keeping up. Still managed 18 mph avg so not all bad. I just need to up the stamina!

Southwark Bridge way on the CSH had a huge spill of diesel. Can I report this anywhere?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 30 January, 2017, 01:28:52 pm
Quote from: TigaSefi on 30 January, 2017, 12:49:15 pm
Quote from: Si S on 30 January, 2017, 10:06:46 am
Lurgy seems to have settled in the lungs, wheezing along like a broken steam engine this morning, feels like I've been back on the fags.

I felt like that on Sunday! Christ, it was hard keeping up. Still managed 18 mph avg so not all bad. I just need to up the stamina!

Southwark Bridge way on the CSH had a huge spill of diesel. Can I report this anywhere?
Southwark Council - environment@southwark.gov.uk
Clicky (http://www.2.southwark.gov.uk/info/200083/roadworks_and_highway_improvements/605/obstructions_on_roads_and_pavements)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 30 January, 2017, 01:29:45 pm
Thanks! I'll take a picture of it tonight if it shows up on my camera phone ok or tomorrow morning!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 30 January, 2017, 01:32:21 pm
Unless things have changed recently, I think they'll respond to reports of a diesel spillage without waiting for photographic evidence.
Duty of care and all that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 30 January, 2017, 03:48:38 pm
I've just called the police (non-emergency number) in the past for a big-ish gravel spill.

Now whether they sorted it out or got the council to do it I don't know but it had gone by the time I went home.

Either way they didn't say I shouldn't have called them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 31 January, 2017, 08:18:53 am
The streets of Stretford seem to be paved with glass this morning  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 02 February, 2017, 09:41:20 am
Nearly rear ended someone on a hybrid this morning, I'd been aware of him drafting on the run down to the M60 bridge, as we went underneath it he'd obviously got some momentum, came past and pulled in a bit sharpish as we exited the bridge and he nearly came to halt - yes mate it is that bloody windy  ::-) I put a bit of effort in and left him to it. Making my turn to put the wind cross and it was like someone had let the brakes off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 02 February, 2017, 10:32:02 am
The gas board have four way lights on my commute. As this is currently an irregular journey due to working away from home most of the time I was caught out by the combination of this and the school run.

Journey 5 minutes slower than it should be.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 February, 2017, 03:25:02 pm
I managed another commute today! :)

With freehub and gears this time, in the fog all the way to the hospital for an 0800 meeting (which had, in any case, been rescheduled to 0830), and then on to work from there.

Looking forward to the ride home, but my knees aren't :/

Maybe not riding every day this week ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 08 February, 2017, 10:48:48 pm
What happens when you leave work 15 minutes late?

You get involved in a car v cyclist rear ending shit storm is what.

Not me rear ended (thank god). I was within the last 5 minutes of my ride. Unlit single carriageway road, one lane in each direction. It wasn't fully dark but as near as damn it full on dark. I could see a dim blinking light coming towards me in the other carriageway and just before we drew level, the thing resolved itself into an MTB being ridden by a mid to late teens lad. He was sat up, peddling along doing a running man impression with his arms. He was dressed in a dark blue smock type top and black shorts with long black socks. He was with a mate who was riding on the pavement. I rode on and a few seconds after, a car approached, 40 to 50 mph (NSL road so 60mph). I thought to myself- he hasn't seen the cyclist as I didn't hear a change in engine tone. I then heard a sound I never want to hear again, the impact of the car with the bike and a screaming.

I immediately turned round and made my way to the scene. The car had stopped and the driver was getting out. The lad was sitting in the road, screaming about his collar bone and asking why the driver was going so fast. He made to move to the pavement. I tried to get him to stay still but he wouldn't so we gently helped him and sat him on the pavement. I made the driver kneel behind him so the lad could relax back against him. Got my phone out but couldn't see the keypad (didn't have my glasses on) so got his mate to dial 999 and hand the phone to me. Once details were passed I split my time between keeping the casualty reassured and the traffic moving. Thankfully, a short while later an off duty paramedic drove by and stopped, so she took over the reassurance bit.

Ambulance and police turned up after about 15 minutes. Details passed then I buggered off home.

Probable broken collar bone, very deep gash in his knee. Bike absolutely fucked. The front blinker was still flashing in the heap. There was a bracket on the seat post but not sign of a rear light. Big dent in the bonnet leading edge and a body shaped breaking of the windscreen of the car.

My cup of tea on arrival home was most welcome.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 08 February, 2017, 10:52:07 pm
Well done fuzzy. I too hope deeply that I never witness anything like that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 February, 2017, 11:53:29 am
Well done, Fuzzy
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 09 February, 2017, 12:10:44 pm
Quote from: Si S on 31 January, 2017, 08:18:53 am
The streets of Stretford seem to be paved with glass this morning  >:(

Boro's like that every day.

Ice tyres today, again. I don't carry any repair kit on this bike on the basis I wouldn't be able to get the buggers off anyway.
One day the glass is going to get me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 09 February, 2017, 12:33:47 pm
Shit. Well done Fuzzy and hope the lad's ok. Well, as ok as can be.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 09 February, 2017, 12:36:10 pm
Glass? Neat piles of car window glass on the pavements every other day in this part of Bristol. Not a tyre problem generally, just a sign of the times.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 09 February, 2017, 12:37:50 pm
Quote from: fboab on 09 February, 2017, 12:10:44 pm
Quote from: Si S on 31 January, 2017, 08:18:53 am
The streets of Stretford seem to be paved with glass this morning  >:(

Boro's like that every day.

Ice tyres today, again. I don't carry any repair kit on this bike on the basis I wouldn't be able to get the buggers off anyway.
One day the glass is going to get me.

Can of that emergency sealant stuff? Never used it so can't comment, I rely on brute force, ignorance, anger and as a last resort the GBFO metal tyre lever I've had for 25 years that's guaranteed to mangle any rim not made of girders.

Crap one last night, no gloves on leaving so thought I'd left them hanging on the bike, not there, hunting round the shed and a fellow commuter said 'I saw a pair of gloves on the floor outside the door this morning....and left them there'  ::-) 

Half a mile from home and I bust a gear cable, I'm still wondering why I spent 10 minutes bodging it at the roadside with blue hands, must grow a brain.  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 09 February, 2017, 12:59:44 pm
Quote from: fuzzy (retd.) AAGE on 08 February, 2017, 10:48:48 pm
I thought to myself- he hasn't seen the cyclist as I didn't hear a change in engine tone. I then heard a sound I never want to hear again, the impact of the car with the bike and a screaming.

That's nightmare stuff. <shudders>
Good work taking charge. Having someone there to ensure it all went down properly may well turn out as valuable as calming the cyclist and getting an ambulance for him.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 09 February, 2017, 01:06:56 pm
Well done Fuzzy. Having someone who can speak responder lingo to the call handlers will have been a substantial bonus for organising the correct response.

I had my first cycle commute of the week this morning. SGN still have 4 way lights in place on my route and the oncoming traffic was backed up from the LC and through the works today. Had to stop at four of the eight sets of lights / ped lights onthe way in which is unusually high. But did get to follow / be followed by an older gent on a ATB who was making very good progress and eventually dropped me.


I blame the laptop in a pannier and the barbag. Oh and the reduced mileage for the last three months which has killed my fitness.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 09 February, 2017, 01:49:39 pm
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 09 February, 2017, 12:36:10 pm
Glass? Neat piles of car window glass on the pavements every other day in this part of Bristol. Not a tyre problem generally, just a sign of the times.

It's not the car glass that's the problem, it's the smashed bottle glass left by the drunken zombies.  In Silly Oak that tends to be (literally) on our front door step (where I and the dog-owning neighbours sweep it up when it gets particularly bad).  When we lived in London, it was mostly a hazard around bus stops.  And of course it's a shared-use-path staple.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 09 February, 2017, 03:13:54 pm
I realize that was the type of glass being referred to, I was just digressing.

<ESL>Bristol has a long history of glass making. The distinctive conical furnaces are a feature of many 18th and 19th century paintings and early photographs of the city, particularly in the St Philips area. That's all gone now, apart from the iconic Bristol Blue glass still used for Harvey's Bristol Cream sherry bottles and certain items popular as gifts or with tourists. The kids today don't appreciate the connection and prefer their intoxicants in gaseous form, whose small metal cannisters litter the streets off Stokes Croft where the big clubs are, forming a skid hazard for the unwary cyclist.</ESL>  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 February, 2017, 05:01:22 pm
I decided not to ride today, and give my legs a rest.

A crash on the A27 in Lancing meant we had standing traffic on the bus route, and I was an hour late for work (when I had anticipated being early).

:(

O for fitter legs, and less baggage to carry!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cycleman on 09 February, 2017, 06:46:40 pm
springs coming and it will get easier  clarion :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 10 February, 2017, 09:25:48 am
Light drizzle this morning but it was enough to put all the school kids in cars and cause traffic problems on my route.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 10 February, 2017, 10:10:18 am
My first sighting of flowering snowdrops this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 10 February, 2017, 10:27:26 am
Quote from: fuzzy (retd.) AAGE on 08 February, 2017, 10:48:48 pm
...My cup of tea on arrival home was most welcome.

And well earned  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pickled Onion on 12 February, 2017, 09:40:57 am
Quote from: fuzzy (retd.) AAGE on 08 February, 2017, 10:48:48 pm
What happens when you leave work 15 minutes late?

I was late on Thursday, due to forgetting my keys and adding an extra 15km to the home-station leg. Then in London I noticed one particular cyclist, on account of him being super-observant and careful but reasonably fast - he passed me a few times because of me being late and riding a little more riskily.

A little way further on there's a clear bus lane and he's well ahead, then I come over the bridge to find he's been hit by a car turning right across the bus lane. Badly bashed ankle, arm, wrist, no blood. Some pedestrians help him bum-shuffle to the pavement then disappear, I call the ambulance. The driver starts having a go at me when I take a photo of his car.

Txt later to say no bones broken, thankfully. Sometimes, no matter how observant you are, you can't account for things happening too quickly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 13 February, 2017, 08:25:08 am
Tough start to the week, that's a nasty wind
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 13 February, 2017, 08:50:25 am
Yes, but it should be easier on the way back and for the first time no concerns about ice.

Also there was a lot of light earlier on, which felt nicer.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 13 February, 2017, 09:21:38 am
*repeats ditty to the tune of "where have all the flowers gone"*

"Where has all the traffic gone?
Half term holidays
Where has all the traffic gone?
Half term week
Where has all the traffic gone?
Mums have stayed at home with them
When will they ever learn?
When will they ever learn?"

Glorious run in with little to no traffic so went through all the junctions with little issue or delay. Though the suspicious lack of wind suggests that the ride home may be rather tougher.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tippers_kiwi on 13 February, 2017, 09:30:09 am
Quote from: matthew on 13 February, 2017, 09:21:38 am

Glorious run in with little to no traffic so went through all the junctions with little issue or delay. Though the suspicious lack of wind suggests that the ride home may be rather tougher.
I was also wondering why the wind stopped so suddenly and the false flat was so easy this morning....then I realised.

Looking forward to pushing the Boris Bike into the headwind back to Stratford tonight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 13 February, 2017, 10:14:18 am
Looks like 15-20kmh headwind on the 20km ride home tonight.  Can't say I'm looking forward to it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 13 February, 2017, 11:01:18 am
Quote from: Si S on 13 February, 2017, 08:25:08 am
Tough start to the week, that's a nasty wind

What wind? Nothing here, I'm just going well  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 13 February, 2017, 11:08:57 am
Headwind all the way into work. So much work on the bike that I hid behind a casual cyclist for respite! A CASUAL cyclist complete with a Spartan checked jacket and high heeled boots! The relief was palpable!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 13 February, 2017, 01:33:33 pm
It was LIGHT at seven o'clock this mornining :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jakob W on 13 February, 2017, 06:28:08 pm
Lots of gusty side winds today - made sure I rode in primary a lot so as not so get pushed into a bus or lorry. The respective drivers were thankfully all considerate.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 13 February, 2017, 06:30:29 pm
I'm still getting over a bug which made today's wind uncomfortable. I felt like I'd ridden in over the fell road rather than down the coast. I was having a much better day on the way home though ;D

Oh, and it was almost warm! :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 13 February, 2017, 08:50:42 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 13 February, 2017, 10:14:18 am
Looks like 15-20kmh headwind on the 20km ride home tonight.  Can't say I'm looking forward to it.

It wasn't nearly as bad as I feared.  I've had tougher rides this year.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 14 February, 2017, 07:54:11 am
I broke the law yesterday afternoon. Temporary traffic lights have appeared just past my house. The traffic was queueueued to just the wrong side of my drive. Did I take my place in the queueue until the lights had changed? Did I 'eck as like! I swung up the neighbours drive and free-wheeled down the path, possibly as far as 40 feet!  It felt wrong, but good at the same time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 14 February, 2017, 08:50:18 am
Quote from: fboab on 13 February, 2017, 11:01:18 am
Quote from: Si S on 13 February, 2017, 08:25:08 am
Tough start to the week, that's a nasty wind

What wind? Nothing here, I'm just going well  ;)

I was going well last night, would have been going even better if there hadn't been all these metal boxes in the way sticking to the speed limit  :o   :)

Leaving the estate this morning and I'd spotted the milkman about to step out from between parked cars without looking so I slowed and passed behind him with 'Get you next time'. He nearly shot out of his skin  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 14 February, 2017, 10:42:07 am
As expected last night was into the wind. However the pain came from having tweaked my groin / hip whilst sat at my desk such that I had difficulty raising my right knee. No pulling up on the pedal and mounting the bike was awkward.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jakob W on 14 February, 2017, 04:53:32 pm
Ouch ouch ouch - stacked the cargobike at the bottom of a hill - not sure whether diesel or some other greasy substance, but the front wheel went out from under me and I slid along the road. Thankfully I was on my way to the nursery pickup rather than on the way home. Road rash to arm, stomach, and knees, and taken the frame tubes down to bare metal on the side of the bike - will have to get a touch up kit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 15 February, 2017, 08:55:55 am
Last nights club run must have been harder than I thought: legs were on empty this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 16 February, 2017, 10:13:59 pm
Good run in, with roads clearer due to half term.  New shoes were comfy, which is good. Scored a roadkill Stanley 99E, complete with three spare blades (inc. obligatory hook one that no-one uses). I've spent a few minutes this evening cleaning and oiling it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 17 February, 2017, 10:12:37 am
Chatsworth Road in Hackney is having a new zebra crossing fitted.
This morning three men in hi-viz were marking it out.
One man with a tape measure and some chalk.
The other two with stern looks for the traffic, to stop him from being squished.
As I came to a halt to allow him to finish his marking, the look out says 'Watch out lad'.
Lad.
Me.
Tops :thumbsup:.

In other news.
The flies for 2017 have started to arrive.

ETA
And on the way home tonight...
Crocuses pushing up through the grass on Well Street Common.
People sitting, drinking outside the pub.
The smell of freshly cut grass.
A smidge of daylight left in the sky just as I reached home.
The last three are firsts for this year. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 20 February, 2017, 09:22:54 am
Blackfriars Bridge has been altered and it's not as good as it was. Now it looks they want EVERYONE to be shunted to the left side approaching it! Great so there like 50-60 bike per traffic lights! good one TFL!  :facepalm:

EDIT: May have been too hasty. It's a 4 year sewage work!!!

https://tfl.gov.uk/status-updates/major-works-and-events/road-changes-at-victoria-embankment#on-this-page-1
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 21 February, 2017, 07:53:55 am
It was a ridiculously mild commute home, yesterday afternoon.  In the morning, it was about 10°C, which is not unexpected for February, but it was 17°C on the way home, and I had to shove my fleece top into the pannier, to stop myself overheating.

When you do that, you also realise how much drag the top creates, since with a YACF jersey alone, I cruised home. :)

I don't think it's going to do that today, the forecast is predicting a 1 or 2°C rise, and possibly staying as dull and lightly drizzly as it is now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 21 February, 2017, 12:08:46 pm
Yesterday: I fell off.

I went to Redcar Primary Care hospital, again, and I'm just posting here to brag that once again, I was seen, X-rayed, advised and out within 60 minutes. I love my NHS. [It's not broken but it does hurt.]
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 21 February, 2017, 01:06:32 pm
Quote from: fboab on 21 February, 2017, 12:08:46 pm
[It's not broken but it does hurt.]

Is that a comment on the injury, or the NHS?


GWS.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 22 February, 2017, 11:18:19 am
Absolutely belted it today and not a word was said in anger too. Love wearing short clothes in London. I just go FASTER! 16.7mph average! Long Live Spring!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 22 February, 2017, 11:22:20 am
1st commute since the school mid-term. I was about 10 - 15 min later than usual and traffic was terrible. Never seen the queues so long. I was riding past long lines this morning.  My wife has been complaining traffics getting worse, and this morning I saw it in action. Or in inaction. Strong tailwind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 22 February, 2017, 11:42:50 am
Last night I seemed to be towing about half a dozen others into the wind, forced to sit on the front all the way due to the total lack of guards by my carriages.

Decent tailwind this morning, going to hurt again this afternoon. Thinking about using the best bike tomorrow since the commuter only has the big ring available and I think I may fancy more gears given the forecast wind speeds tomorrow  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DuncanM on 22 February, 2017, 01:24:33 pm
This morning was my first commute in about 3 months.  :)  I could have chosen a less windy day.  ::-) I hope it's a tailwind for the way home.
Don't think I'll be riding tomorrow though!

Also, I was fighting into a dead straight headwind for the last half mile into work, and a UPS van appeared behind me. I thought I'd get a nice draft, but the driver gave me a full cars width and didn't pull in until the back of his van was at least 5metres ahead! Inconsiderate barsteward - why couldn't he have pulled in sooner?  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 22 February, 2017, 06:08:29 pm
I liked today's commute. :)

I saw my first set of new lambs running around in the fields, saw a buzzard swoop up up front of me and perch in a tree above the road, and even managed to drop a wheel sucker up a hill ;D

I doubt tomorrow is going to be as enjoyable looking at the forecast so I suppose I'd better enjoy it while it lasts :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 22 February, 2017, 06:55:01 pm
Work-bound 1h15m and the merest hint of light at 0600.

Home-bound 49m and (hooray!) first lambs of the year at Poulton Fields.

Marked increase in birdsong in the morning this last week or so which is v. nice.

Feels like we've turned a corner and, allowing for cold snaps, the better cycling weather is in the offing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 22 February, 2017, 08:57:31 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 22 February, 2017, 06:08:29 pm
I liked today's commute. :)

I saw my first set of new lambs running around in the fields, saw a buzzard swoop up up front of me and perch in a tree above the road, and even managed to drop a wheel sucker up a hill ;D

I doubt tomorrow is going to be as enjoyable looking at the forecast so I suppose I'd better enjoy it while it lasts :-\
mcshazoom!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 22 February, 2017, 09:10:02 pm
No way I'm cycling tomorrow. Some of the gusts this morning had me holding on tight. If the predictions for tomorrow are anything like accurate...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 23 February, 2017, 08:04:40 am
Would somebody turn the wind down a bit please. (Gusting up to 45mph already!)

I'm glad I decided to use the folder this morning. I knew there'd be a couple of places where I'd be hit by vicious side-blasts. On the hybrid or road bike I'd have been skittering sideways across the road. With the folder having all it's gubbins so low down there was nothing for the wind to get hold of. I just gave a little wobble and carried on.

First in-bound commute without gloves this year (they're in my bag, just in case)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 23 February, 2017, 08:11:15 am
Whoosh, that wind and that bike just  ;D ;D ;D touching 30mph coming up Kings Road. Tonight is gonna hurt.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 23 February, 2017, 08:43:24 am
Easier ride in than I expected, as the wind pushed me along nicely. Also just missed all the rain.

Not looking forward to tonight though, I could see some struggling on the opposite direction this morning already.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 23 February, 2017, 12:36:26 pm
I was blown in this morning, in addition to the experience of all seasons of weather.
Having seen people trying to cycle in the opposite direction to the one I was travelling in, y'know - standing on the pedals but not actually moving forward, I fully intend to bottle out of the cycle ride home and use my Oyster card.
Forecast of gusts up to 87 km/h this afternoon.  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 23 February, 2017, 02:43:31 pm
Shit awful sleet and howling winds.  I didn't bike it today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 23 February, 2017, 05:51:03 pm
When the diseased branches start falling from the trees it's clear we've reached the dead wood stage.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 23 February, 2017, 06:16:18 pm
Bit damp on the way in and a bit blowy on the way home, but nothing like as bad as forecast :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 23 February, 2017, 06:48:11 pm
Not in the least bit sorry to have left the bike at work this evening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 23 February, 2017, 07:02:56 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 23 February, 2017, 05:51:03 pm
When the diseased branches start falling from the trees it's clear we've reached the dead wood stage.
Groaaan. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 23 February, 2017, 08:13:20 pm
Had a long ride home and not as bad as I thought, not least because it was fuelled by a whole packet of biscuits and big bag of crisps.  Sort of enjoyed it in a masochistic way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 24 February, 2017, 07:43:37 am
I did a LOT of free-wheeling on the way home last night :thumbsup:

This morning:

Where's yer lights? calls the moron in the unlit filthy black Fiat 500.

WHERE'RE YOURS? roars back the cyclist, jacket emitting an eyeball-searing yellow glow in the morning sunshine ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 24 February, 2017, 10:06:36 am
My commuting buddy was unwell last night so asked for a tow home, quickly gained an extra passenger for the run down to Stretford. I was cream crackered by the time I dropped him off at home, the drag up the false flat that is Fairhills Road into the teeth of the gale was grim.

Not got a lot in the tank this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 24 February, 2017, 10:43:01 am
Nice ride in this morning, nice to be able to facilitate the Ambulance on blues that was caught at the level crossing. It was second vehicle on the far side and I was the first on my side so I stopped well back from the barrier and spread my hands near my sides so it was obvious I wasn't going anywhere. Once the train passed the barriers opened and the vehicle in front of it and I just waited for it to pass and sort itself out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 28 February, 2017, 08:31:56 am
Visitation in Moss Side, managed to roll all the way to work before changing the tube and made use of the NHS track pump, fairly innocuous looking thorn that had gone all the way through a D+
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 01 March, 2017, 05:14:13 pm
Great ride in.  I think I was 'going well' ;)

I've set a challenging PB now.

Of course, the ride home may not be so swift. :/

But I've also been able to use the bike on a multi-modal journey to a meeting and back.  I like to set an example :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 01 March, 2017, 09:59:25 pm
I forgot to pack my rain jacket today. No problem, the Met office had a <5% chance of rain all afternoon.

Of course, that meant that it was coming down so hard when I went to ride home I had water dripping of my cap's peak before I'd even made it off of site ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 02 March, 2017, 08:42:18 am
Nice tailwind, shame about the flooded roads and the taxi driver that expected me to just dematerialise at 30mph past Longford Park
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 02 March, 2017, 07:32:46 pm
Another slog work-bound, but hey stick it in a low gear, spin away and you'll get there.  After all it's not as if the office is going anywhere. :)

On the plus side it was half-light to light almost all the way which made the ride much more relaxing.   Nice to see the scenery (and more lambs) again.  Shame the clocks have to go forward at the end of the month.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 02 March, 2017, 07:57:57 pm
Not my commute and last week, not today, but an unusual traffic jam, all the same

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N-8fHUCve20/WLh3xyffo_I/AAAAAAAA9Xk/1MoLShGcM3AQNE4r-tzqNs_QnR6vCBigwCPcB/s800/IMG_20170215_085216.jpg)


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 02 March, 2017, 10:31:42 pm
Quote from: Ham on 02 March, 2017, 07:57:57 pm
Not my commute and last week, not today, but an unusual traffic jam, all the same

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N-8fHUCve20/WLh3xyffo_I/AAAAAAAA9Xk/1MoLShGcM3AQNE4r-tzqNs_QnR6vCBigwCPcB/s800/IMG_20170215_085216.jpg)



That's not too unusual round here. We get those on fell roads which the Herdies think they own. They aren't quite as intimidating as the Highland Coos on Cold Fell though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 03 March, 2017, 09:08:25 am
Quote from: TheLurker on 02 March, 2017, 07:32:46 pm
Shame the clocks have to go forward at the end of the month.

I hate this, just get to the point can make the commute both ways without lights and then its dark again, not to mention what it does to my body clock, takes weeks to sort out.

Today's horrible headwind coupled to Friday legs meant I just was just plodding along, not a lot of fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 03 March, 2017, 10:17:22 am
Quote from: Si S on 03 March, 2017, 09:08:25 am
I hate this, just get to the point can make the commute both ways without lights and then its dark again ...

If I leave at my optimal departure time, I never avoid needing lights on my commute into work.  Whilst sunrise can be at 0442 for the Summer Solstice, the sun doesn't rise above the level of buildings, so I only see direct sunshine at the occasional junction, on Clapham Common and crossing the Thames!  Lights are mostly a good idea, even after sunrise, because it can still be surprisingly dim.

I keep on forgetting to mention the newly widened and resurfaced Hermitage Path, over the River Graveney, between Ellison Road (https://goo.gl/maps/7BPNobTU4p62) and Acacia Road (https://goo.gl/maps/RhrzUWsmhyT2).  After mucking about with the kerb from Ellison Road, and then the entire area for a number of weeks, the last couple of weeks have been bliss.  The surface where the car park / cycle path met Acacia Road has been horrible for the entire time I've used this route, but it avoids a very dangerous and nasty route southbound from Tooting Bec Road to Streatham High Road.  There are some stupid features, like the street light which is now in the middle of the path, rather than at the side of it, but largely it's a massive improvement upon what was there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 03 March, 2017, 08:11:02 pm
BTDTGTTS  :)

(https://c1.staticflickr.com/7/6202/6150690471_0a4f0804ff_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/anvTZr)
IMG_4868 (https://flic.kr/p/anvTZr) by The Pingus (https://www.flickr.com/photos/the_pingus/), on Flickr

(Not commuting though)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 03 March, 2017, 09:15:44 pm
NZ ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 03 March, 2017, 09:56:11 pm
Quote from: Pingu on 03 March, 2017, 08:11:02 pm
BTDTGTTS  :)

(https://c1.staticflickr.com/7/6202/6150690471_0a4f0804ff_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/anvTZr)
IMG_4868 (https://flic.kr/p/anvTZr) by The Pingus (https://www.flickr.com/photos/the_pingus/), on Flickr

(Not commuting though)

This one?
(http://d12ulgabwzisq4.cloudfront.net/Data/media/Images/Catalogue/297/ed-shearing-blue-dusk-mens.jpg?height=400&width=363&404=default.jpg) (Ed Shearing)
 or this one?

(http://d12ulgabwzisq4.cloudfront.net/data/media/images/catalogue/productimages/1117-I23_Airforce%20Blue_1.jpg?height=400&width=363&404=default.jpg) (Where's Wooly)

or this one?

(http://d12ulgabwzisq4.cloudfront.net/data/media/images/catalogue/productimages/1117-D92_Slate_1.jpg?height=400&width=363&404=default.jpg) (Silence of the Lambs)


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 04 March, 2017, 11:30:38 am
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/7/6152/6161636606_572648244f_b.jpg)

I got held up by the same bunch of little woolly buggers on my holibobs in the exact same place two years running, somewhere near where SW Wyoming collides with Utah.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 04 March, 2017, 11:53:00 am
Quote from: hatler on 03 March, 2017, 09:15:44 pm
NZ ?

France, descent from Col de la Croix de Fer.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 05 March, 2017, 04:26:02 pm
For the first time in a very long time I have actually commuted (more than .25 of a mile).
I cycled to work into the wind on Friday night and zoomed home yesterday morning and rode back again last night and home via the less direct route to avoid the horrendous southerly wind this morning. That was fun  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 06 March, 2017, 10:00:15 am
Quote from: TimO on 03 March, 2017, 10:17:22 am
Quote from: Si S on 03 March, 2017, 09:08:25 am
I hate this, just get to the point can make the commute both ways without lights and then its dark again ...

If I leave at my optimal departure time, I never avoid needing lights on my commute into work.  Whilst sunrise can be at 0442 for the Summer Solstice, the sun doesn't rise above the level of buildings, so I only see direct sunshine at the occasional junction, on Clapham Common and crossing the Thames!  Lights are mostly a good idea, even after sunrise, because it can still be surprisingly dim.

I keep on forgetting to mention the newly widened and resurfaced Hermitage Path, over the River Graveney, between Ellison Road (https://goo.gl/maps/7BPNobTU4p62) and Acacia Road (https://goo.gl/maps/RhrzUWsmhyT2).  After mucking about with the kerb from Ellison Road, and then the entire area for a number of weeks, the last couple of weeks have been bliss.  The surface where the car park / cycle path met Acacia Road has been horrible for the entire time I've used this route, but it avoids a very dangerous and nasty route southbound from Tooting Bec Road to Streatham High Road.  There are some stupid features, like the street light which is now in the middle of the path, rather than at the side of it, but largely it's a massive improvement upon what was there.

I think we often follow the same route (though at radically different times). If I'm in a hurry I sometimes just take the A24 all the way to Croydon, but the back route (LCN 5 if I recall) is a bit (ok, lot) more relaxing. Though the bit after Norbury is (or was horrible) – Norbury Avenue (and the streets between Thornton Heath and Broad Green) tended to be a rat run, narrow and over parked, the usual story with impatient drivers who can't wait a few seconds for a place to pass safely.

Not seen the improvements though, will have to try on my next commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 06 March, 2017, 01:09:02 pm
Took a left turn off Lea Bridge Road this morning, and gave myself nearly a mile of tarmac path over Walthamstow Marshes, as opposed to the cycle lane through Argall Industrial estate, followed by a school / rat run.
What's not to like?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 06 March, 2017, 01:36:22 pm
Legs felt tired after a week off and was making steady progress till the seat rails snapped.

Made it to work, albeit a lot more tired, due to the rubbish position and due to the fact I had to carry my little barley around my neck!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 March, 2017, 02:52:57 pm
Last week's commuting was dampened by a broken drive side spoke, so I dug out the S3X.  It is, after all, the commuting bike.  Had fun up and down the prom with the wind yesterday, so decided to go for a commute today.

Er, set another PB! :o  This time through the back streets, so not much traffic, and barely any sets of lights.  Not so much tailwind, either.  45 min door to door.  I could live with that as a timing, but the rough surfaces did leave my left wrist a bit numb.

It's an interesting landscape of industry and leisure in competition and in harmony.  I am still noticing more with every ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 06 March, 2017, 04:23:45 pm
Now reminded of how work is the bit in the middle which spoils the bike ride ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 06 March, 2017, 04:35:12 pm
Quote from: clarion on 06 March, 2017, 02:52:57 pm
It's an interesting landscape of industry and leisure in competition and in harmony.  I am still noticing more with every ride.
Is that Worthing to Brighton ?  I'm always intrigued and fascinated by the contrasts along that stretch of England which is just West of Brighton. A standard day out for my family was Brighton, with a diversion to the port at Shoreham so my dad could look wistfully at the merchant vessels alongside, and every once in a while board a vessel to have a natter with the crew. Invariably they knew someone in common.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 March, 2017, 11:29:50 am
Worthing to Hove, and, yes, the Port inevitably dominates a large stretch.  I was pleasantly surprised at how active it still is.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 07 March, 2017, 12:03:51 pm
Quote from: ian on 06 March, 2017, 10:00:15 am
I think we often follow the same route (though at radically different times).

It sounds likely.

Quote from: ian on 06 March, 2017, 10:00:15 am
If I'm in a hurry I sometimes just take the A24 all the way to Croydon, but the back route (LCN 5 if I recall) is a bit (ok, lot) more relaxing. Though the bit after Norbury is (or was horrible) – Norbury Avenue (and the streets between Thornton Heath and Broad Green) tended to be a rat run, narrow and over parked, the usual story with impatient drivers who can't wait a few seconds for a place to pass safely.

Not seen the improvements though, will have to try on my next commute.

I think you mean the A23, the A24 will take you towards Leatherhead, not particular close to Croydon.

The Norbury Avenue direction doesn't work for me, it takes me away from my destination, but I did use it a few times when I first moved to Croydon, partially as an experiment, and because I was helping take a group of novice cyclists through there, back when Hovis was sponsoring the summer cycling closure in central London.  I found it fairly horrible, and as you say, met some very nasty aggressive drivers.  After Thornton Heath Pond, I use London Road (A235) into Croydon, since it's largely better than the Thornton Road/Purley Way, with its own horrible junctions (Lombard Roundabout and Ikea).

I believe that Norbury Avenue did have some closures placed in it, to stop through traffic, but still allow cyclists through, but I believe that was an experiment, and has since been removed.

I only use the back roads between Tooting Bec Common and Norbury southbound, because two junctions near Streatham are verging on being lethal in that direction.  Northbound, whilst the A23 is busy, it's surprisingly safe for cycling, and you do see quite a lot of cyclists on it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 07 March, 2017, 12:41:26 pm
Yeah, the A-something-or-other, that'll be it. Straight run from Elephant to the dark heart of Croydon. Can do it in twelve parsecs. There are indeed a couple of foul junctions southbound: the one where Brixton Road becomes Brixton Hill and Effra Road and the north end of Streatham Common. Both rely on cyclists being to out-accelerate internal combustion engines. Driving skills seem to drop as you get closer to Croydon. It must emit some kind of field. Wild West Croydon occupies all levels of 'interesting' simultaneously. The entry/exit to Lidl's carpark is a basically a quantum superposition of motorists who at any one point are both leaving and entering. The only thing with isn't uncertain is the fact they're not looking.

The only other problems I have on the A23 is (a) the bus and traffic pollution, it's pretty foul and (b) outside bus lane hours you get the occasional 'clever' driver who thinks he (and it usually is) can undertake at speed via the bus lane. Which is unfortunate if you are cycling in it.

No idea why the removed the closures on Norbury Avenue, it's a uniformly horrible rat-run but I presume the locals didn't want to be delayed in their hurry to park on their gardens. LBC hates cycling and they likely wanted to spend the money on the strange cycle junction over the tram lines in Wild West Croydon. As Croydon's only cycle facility, it's obviously something they want to lavish cash on.

Purley Way would offer the quickest route for me, but I wouldn't view it as cycleable. The Lombardy Circus of Death and then the lane spaghetti by Waddon and – oh my – the Purley Cross gyratory. There are easier ways to commit suicide.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Karla on 07 March, 2017, 01:48:53 pm
Not, strictly speaking, on today's commute

(https://www.crazyguyonabike.com/pics/docs/00/01/53/79/small/transfag_sheep.jpg?v=0)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 07 March, 2017, 03:41:25 pm
Quote from: ian on 07 March, 2017, 12:41:26 pm
... Purley Way would offer the quickest route for me, but I wouldn't view it as cycleable. The Lombardy Circus of Death and then the lane spaghetti by Waddon and – oh my – the Purley Cross gyratory. There are easier ways to commit suicide.

Other than fun with Lombardy, I don't need to go far enough that those cause problems.  I've mostly only used the Purley Cross gyratory (https://goo.gl/maps/uvFLim8DkDF2) on FNRttCs, and at 1am the traffic is less of an issue.  Five Ways (https://goo.gl/maps/33fU6k3FTJk) is more of a nuisance, since Parcel Force always leave my parcels with a Post Office on the other side of it, to me.  Sometimes it's safe, faster and easier to use the pedestrian crossings.

Lombard Roundabout (https://goo.gl/maps/mFE64au4CkQ2), on the rare occasions I use it, is the only place where I'll switch my Exposure front light to flashing, during the night.  Generally the flashing mode is far too annoying to use other than in twilight or fog, where being spotted is paramount.  For some reason, when going southbound across it, motorised traffic crossing from the west seems particularly prone to speeding onto the roundabout, with nary a care for anyone else who isn't going in their direction.  I have less issues when going northward, but I can see them more clearly, and they've got less excuse for not seeing me.

The Ikea junction (https://goo.gl/maps/LQDGFfUx2yq) is also very good for people turning across your path, at the exits, and trying to undertake you at the entry points, if you're trying to just cycle along the road.  The slip roads meet the A23 over relatively short sections, so there really isn't time for a vehicle to do that with any realistic chance of doing so in any way that could (laughably) be described as safe, not that this stops some.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 08 March, 2017, 07:25:41 am
The entire retail park stretch of Purley Way is mad, tbh. It's full of people unsure which entry they need for whatever retail warehouse and when they find it, at the last moment, they'll slew across three lanes without looking or perform some other bonkers manoeuvre. I did only try the Purley Way once. I sometimes cut across the Lombardy Circus of Death coming from Mitcham, it's bearable if the traffic is snarled, otherwise cars seem to use it on a close-eyes-and-pray strategy. I'd get off and push but they didn't bother with pedestrian crossings either (well, there's a pedestrian route on the south side, but it's one of those do-we-have-to facilities). Of course, if I did take that route, Purley Cross dumps me on the A22 which is even less fun.

Post-Croydon, crawling over Sanderstead hill is infinitely preferable to the A-anything. Though my legs sometimes disagree.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 08 March, 2017, 12:18:56 pm
Rear light went bouncing down the road, picked up all the bits re-assembled and carried on, half a mile later its in the road again but in a few more pieces. Bah!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 08 March, 2017, 01:55:10 pm
First sub 30 minute commute home of the year yesterday :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 08 March, 2017, 04:27:39 pm
Good work, fuzzy! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 08 March, 2017, 05:12:45 pm
Quote
Roads&Transport MPS‏Verified account @MPSRTPC  Mar 7

 Driver stopped Archway Rd @MPSHaringey using his mobile phone. Previously imprisoned for causing death by careless driving. Unbelievable!



Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 08 March, 2017, 05:31:24 pm
Not my commute route, but a road I ride now and again. More canyons (https://www.fillthathole.org.uk/hazard/137766/images)

The glove in the pictures is about 9" fingertip to cuff.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 09 March, 2017, 08:16:14 am
Glorious stuff, tailwind and sunshine!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 09 March, 2017, 11:00:28 am
Shorts and short

(http://www.animatedimages.org/data/media/278/animated-sun-image-0079.gif)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 March, 2017, 11:01:52 am
There may have been traces of tailwind, but I went by the A road, and arrived at work very early. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 09 March, 2017, 11:04:50 am
Glorious ride in after an early site visit by foot. Sun was out and I was over dressed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 09 March, 2017, 12:15:41 pm
I had to shed a layer, on exiting the Greenwich foot tunnel  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 March, 2017, 02:07:23 pm
First commute I've done without a jacket on :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 09 March, 2017, 05:48:57 pm
Peotry

Spring is sprung,
The gras is ris.
I kno wer* the horse hem hem is.
Chiz chiz.

*On the feilds as any fule kno. Poo urr gosh.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 10 March, 2017, 09:28:56 am
What a flyer in this morning  :thumbsup:

span out at 130rpm* on a slight decline. Lead to sub 25 minutes door to door for 10.5km despite a couple of red lights and a traffic delay when turning right from minor to major.




*42.5kph pressure from following traffic and stationary oncoming traffic preventing the overtake.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 10 March, 2017, 10:23:53 am
Rode in on a Friday which is unusual for me as i'm usually knackered by that point, especially as I had ridden the 20 miles back from Staverton via Gloucester city centre and edge.

Is it national drive like an utter twat day?

I only ask because my close pass quota seems to have been exceeded.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 March, 2017, 03:55:13 pm
I rode in civvies today to our second nearest station, as my first meeting was in another town, beyond reasonable cycle commuting distance (and no opportunity to change).

Quite strange, really.

And I had the unusual experience of a bus passing so close to me that my mobile latched on to the on-board Wi-Fi.  Gits >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 10 March, 2017, 04:04:19 pm
Quote from: clarion on 10 March, 2017, 03:55:13 pm
And I had the unusual experience of a bus passing so close to me that my mobile latched on to the on-board Wi-Fi.

That's not really a measure of close-passness, thobut.  I irregularly see National Express and Megabus appear in the Unifi controller's list of nearby access points, and buses don't (or at least shouldn't) drive along our road, let alone through our living room.

(What's the opposite of wardriving?  War-staying-still-and-waiting-for-people-to-go-past?)

It will surprise nobody that after pedestrians with iPhones, the greatest source of transient access points is that well-known provider of independently contracted close passes, Uber.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 10 March, 2017, 05:05:30 pm
Ha!  But I can't even get a signal when I'm sat inside the bus!

And it was an awfully snug pass.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 13 March, 2017, 08:52:08 am
Started well, a little chilly and then of all things a front wheel puncture.

No pump, so got lucky near some offices and got lent a pump.

Bit fed up, this is the second or third of this year already, despite m+ and I picked them clean only last week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 13 March, 2017, 10:08:24 am
Nice morning, just hard to be motivated when you don't want to get where you're going. Forgot food and money, going to be running on empty for the return leg.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 13 March, 2017, 10:31:59 am
Quote from: Howard Keel
Ohhhh what a beautiful morning...!
:)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 13 March, 2017, 01:53:24 pm
First time under 10 minutes at the summit of Quarry Wood Road and first sub 30 minute commute to work this year.

It's all about the weather :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 14 March, 2017, 08:11:15 am
46 mins, sub 45 is getting closer, sub 40 feels like a long way off. Starting to get too warm for the shell, I wonder how Marj is doing with my lightweight windproof repair.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JamieD on 14 March, 2017, 09:23:50 am
Not sure if it was setting off 20 minutes later than usual or the wonderful weather but there seemed to be a lot more people on the Kingston->Blackfriars route than normal.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 14 March, 2017, 10:14:24 am
Even with a day off yesterday my legs are utterly destroyed still :( Even got overtaken by a hipster  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 14 March, 2017, 12:29:08 pm
Seventy Six!

No, not trombones, but the number of bicycles parked in our capacious secure space (shared between CCG & Council) yesterday lunch time.

And this morning, I saw loads of fellow cyclists on the Worthing side of the river, which has been a rarity up to now.  Tipping point with the weather, perhaps?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 14 March, 2017, 07:19:21 pm
Quote from: Si S on 14 March, 2017, 08:11:15 am
46 mins, sub 45 is getting closer, sub 40 feels like a long way off. Starting to get too warm for the shell, I wonder how Marj is doing with my lightweight windproof repair.
These days I'm happy, no happy isn't the right word but it'll do, with anything under the hour for 15 miles. A combination of ageing legs and having to get through Cirencester now the office is no longer on the home side of town.  Anything close to 50 minutes these days is treasured as something akin to miraculous.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 15 March, 2017, 01:12:34 am
I commuted in today, only the 4th time this year I think  :-[.
I was shamed into it by reading "This is what you did on this day last year" on Facebook. It was a Strava upload of my commute......

A late start (16.30) meant that I could take my time and enjoy the sun !
Coming home at 22.30 (I finished early  :thumbsup:) wasn't too bad either.

I should ride in tomorrow even though I've got a lot of clothing to bring home for washing.
Perhaps if the sun shines and I take a rucsac.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DuncanM on 15 March, 2017, 09:01:55 am
Sub 50, the first time ever I think.  New bike or better legs? :)
Probably a bit of both!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 15 March, 2017, 09:17:28 am
Quote from: TheLurker on 14 March, 2017, 07:19:21 pm
Quote from: Si S on 14 March, 2017, 08:11:15 am
46 mins, sub 45 is getting closer, sub 40 feels like a long way off. Starting to get too warm for the shell, I wonder how Marj is doing with my lightweight windproof repair.
These days I'm happy, no happy isn't the right word but it'll do, with anything under the hour for 15 miles. A combination of ageing legs and having to get through Cirencester now the office is no longer on the home side of town.  Anything close to 50 minutes these days is treasured as something akin to miraculous.

tbh at times I do wonder why I bother, it's a little under 12 miles into the centre of Manc, so its far more about traffic lights than legs, taking it very easy today and caught greens most of the way.....46 mins
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 15 March, 2017, 08:23:47 pm
Hah! _Only_ 59 minutes work-bound today and 54/5 homebound. :D

More importantly, _much_ more importantly; the work-bound trip was in a lovely light mist and I heard my first skylark of the year.  Noted a marked increase in the number of lambs.

Saw my first '17 plate on the way home.  A black urban assault vehicle.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 16 March, 2017, 12:26:08 am
No rucsac needed, I got everything into my Carradice.
It was warm this afternoon and I stopped en route to take my leg-warmers off, the first time this year that I've had my legs out.
The return was quite chilly though and I used all the clothing that I had with me.
I'll gloss over the incident of the Ford Ka nearly taking me out on Barlow Moor Road ...............

I've got the next two days off and bike rides are planned.
Typically, the weather is going to turn mildly Mancunian tomorrow followed by moderately Mancunian and then mostly Mancunian as Friday approaches. Must grumble.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 16 March, 2017, 08:08:22 am
Quote from: Andrew Br on 16 March, 2017, 12:26:08 am
Typically, the weather is going to turn mildly Mancunian tomorrow followed by moderately Mancunian and then mostly Mancunian as Friday approaches. Must grumble.

And the outlook for my planned ride into the peaks on Saturday is take a paddle  >:(

Enjoyed the last of the sunshine this morning
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 March, 2017, 02:10:30 pm
Foggy couple of days.

Yesterday morning, my rear light fell apart. :(  No worries: I always carry a spare.

Yesterday evening: *search, search, scrabble...  No light :(

Decided to chance it as far as Shoreham (half way), where I thought one of the three bike shops might have been open late.  But the fog was so thick, I got as far as Tesco, where I had a look JIC before abandoning in favour of a short ride to the station.

Power cut at the station.  No information on the boards (and barely any light).  I got on a train, and asked Butterfly to meet me at the station with a rear light so I could at least ride home from there.

She realised the train I was on didn't stop at our local station, so rode on to the main one in town, where the tandem glode into view out of the mist.  Suddenly, a really shit commute after a really shit day at work had become a chance for a lovely pootle with my family :) :) :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Marj on 18 March, 2017, 07:13:51 pm
Quote from: Si S on 15 March, 2017, 09:17:28 am
Quote from: TheLurker on 14 March, 2017, 07:19:21 pm
Quote from: Si S on 14 March, 2017, 08:11:15 am
46 mins, sub 45 is getting closer, sub 40 feels like a long way off. Starting to get too warm for the shell, I wonder how Marj is doing with my lightweight windproof repair.
These days I'm happy, no happy isn't the right word but it'll do, with anything under the hour for 15 miles. A combination of ageing legs and having to get through Cirencester now the office is no longer on the home side of town.  Anything close to 50 minutes these days is treasured as something akin to miraculous.

tbh at times I do wonder why I bother, it's a little under 12 miles into the centre of Manc, so its far more about traffic lights than legs, taking it very easy today and caught greens most of the way.....46 mins

It's got a new full length zip in it that now works  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 18 March, 2017, 09:08:17 pm
Quote from: Marj on 18 March, 2017, 07:13:51 pm
Quote from: Si S on 15 March, 2017, 09:17:28 am
Quote from: TheLurker on 14 March, 2017, 07:19:21 pm
Quote from: Si S on 14 March, 2017, 08:11:15 am
46 mins, sub 45 is getting closer, sub 40 feels like a long way off. Starting to get too warm for the shell, I wonder how Marj is doing with my lightweight windproof repair.
These days I'm happy, no happy isn't the right word but it'll do, with anything under the hour for 15 miles. A combination of ageing legs and having to get through Cirencester now the office is no longer on the home side of town.  Anything close to 50 minutes these days is treasured as something akin to miraculous.

tbh at times I do wonder why I bother, it's a little under 12 miles into the centre of Manc, so its far more about traffic lights than legs, taking it very easy today and caught greens most of the way.....46 mins

It's got a new full length zip in it that now works  :thumbsup:
:thumbsup:
Yay for Marj!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 19 March, 2017, 08:38:38 am
Marj is doing replacement "zip" for ageing cyclists?  I'll have some of that please!  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 19 March, 2017, 10:16:30 am
Nearly had two collisions on the way home on Thursday; one head-on with another cyclist where we stopped with about an inch between our front tyres.  That one was no-one's fault, really.  We were both slowly weaving through a huge group of students waiting at a bus stop on the psyclepath and temporarily lost sight of each other; I'd thought he'd gone to the left of them but he'd decided to go to the right. 

Then, five minutes later, a little kid shot out of a side road on his bike without looking at all.  He was lucky the car coming the other way didn't get him.  Kids ride with their heads up their arses these days; they teach them so little on Bikeability or whatever it's called that they can't actually ride on the road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 20 March, 2017, 11:10:39 am
Took the Bianchi in to work today. First time riding a bike with gears since sometime last summer.
Not at all convinced that I enjoyed the experience.
So many things to think about. So many things to do.
Forgot how 'difficult' Look cleats are to use - compared to SPDs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jakob W on 20 March, 2017, 01:23:20 pm
Miserable, wet, and windy out there. The Carradice rain cape was the right choice - if it's not raining heavily enough or is warm I end up soggy either way, but today it limited the damage to damp forearms and shoulders.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 20 March, 2017, 01:31:31 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 20 March, 2017, 11:10:39 am
Took the Bianchi in to work today. First time riding a bike with gears since sometime last summer.
Not at all convinced that I enjoyed the experience.
So many things to think about. So many things to do.
Forgot how 'difficult' Look cleats are to use - compared to SPDs.
Are you thinking of getting rid of the Bianchi ??
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 20 March, 2017, 02:30:26 pm
I'm not, Rob.
I rebuilt it a couple of years ago - just saddle, brakes and frame retained from original.
Wheels upgrade to Ksyriums, 105 Groupset, etc.
Raceblades make it my geared commuter - although I, by far it seems, prefer riding fixed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 20 March, 2017, 02:57:18 pm
OK. Just wondering. Little miss hatler (now taller than mum and still growing) has her mind/heart set on a Bianchi.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Socks on 21 March, 2017, 04:11:39 pm
Average ride to and from work today, only incident was a close but slow pass from a large van - a traffic accident monitoring and reporting van.  The only other happening of note was the fact that it was my last commute as I'm taking voluntary redundancy on Friday.  I started cycling to work in 1985, only six miles each way but I use the bike most work days.  So I guestimate a total of 61,440 miles backwards and forwards along that road over the last thirty two years. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 21 March, 2017, 04:35:30 pm
Wow !   I hope you've got some cycling planned in for Saturday, otherwise your legs will seize up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 21 March, 2017, 05:15:10 pm
I'm on the bus (commuter needs hub replacement, parts on the way) & have just seen a bloke on a BSO with a Jack Russell across his shoulders. I won't carry the laptop in a rucksack if I can help it, but some riders don't seem to care what they carry on their backs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 21 March, 2017, 08:29:40 pm
I did something equating to an "office hours" commute today. It was very nice although coming home in the rush hour was both frustrating (lots of cars getting in the way) and rewarding (passing lots of cars in queues).
I was too cold this am but lots of riders were in shorts and one guy was even wearing a t-shirt  :o.

Tomorrow's 05.30 start means that I'll be taking the car.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 22 March, 2017, 11:36:47 am
Quote from: Socks on 21 March, 2017, 04:11:39 pm
Average ride to and from work today, only incident was a close but slow pass from a large van - a traffic accident monitoring and reporting van.  The only other happening of note was the fact that it was my last commute as I'm taking voluntary redundancy on Friday.  I started cycling to work in 1985, only six miles each way but I use the bike most work days.  So I guestimate a total of 61,440 miles backwards and forwards along that road over the last thirty two years.
What's really impressive is that you've ridden 30,720 miles backwards!  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 22 March, 2017, 02:17:48 pm
Last night, as I hacked into the wind on my way home, I saw what may have been a club ride (though not a chaingang per se) flashing past in the other direction.  It was a lovely sight. :)

Today, tired and with lots of weather outside, I used the bus.  Which was delayed by the tons of metal left lying around along the A259 not going anywhere.

Aaaand took a wrong turning...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Socks on 22 March, 2017, 05:02:13 pm
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 22 March, 2017, 11:36:47 am
Quote from: Socks on 21 March, 2017, 04:11:39 pm
Average ride to and from work today, only incident was a close but slow pass from a large van - a traffic accident monitoring and reporting van.  The only other happening of note was the fact that it was my last commute as I'm taking voluntary redundancy on Friday.  I started cycling to work in 1985, only six miles each way but I use the bike most work days.  So I guestimate a total of 61,440 miles backwards and forwards along that road over the last thirty two years.
What's really impressive is that you've ridden 30,720 miles backwards! 
;

 ;) ;D 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 23 March, 2017, 10:15:10 am
Very wet last night. Quite wet this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 23 March, 2017, 03:46:15 pm
Will all of Westminster still be a no go area for cyclists this PM? I am thinking of going over London Bridge through Elephant And Castle, Kennington, Vauxhall to get home tonight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 23 March, 2017, 06:55:40 pm
Knackering ride home today.  Gusty and strong headwinds for the first 10 miles, some gusts strong enough to bring me close to a standstill.  Last 5 were better, side wind and some shelter from hedgerows, but I cannot remember the last time I felt this beat after a short bike ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 23 March, 2017, 10:22:09 pm
Quote from: TigaSefi on 23 March, 2017, 03:46:15 pm
Will all of Westminster still be a no go area for cyclists this PM? I am thinking of going over London Bridge through Elephant And Castle, Kennington, Vauxhall to get home tonight.

Too late for today, but... There were more roads closed at 20:00 than there were at 17:00.  I'm factoring in diversions for tomorrow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 24 March, 2017, 08:59:26 am
Beautiful morning today. Took a longer route in to be in the sunshine for longer. Some icy patches.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris N on 24 March, 2017, 09:11:24 am
Tailwind all the way in. 8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 24 March, 2017, 09:19:59 am
Quote from: sg37409 on 24 March, 2017, 08:59:26 am
Beautiful morning today. Took a longer route in to be in the sunshine for longer. Some icy patches.

Were you affected by the snowpocalypse earlier in the week?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 24 March, 2017, 09:23:39 am
First one this week due to lurgy, not held onto food for best part of 5 days, so very weak into the wind, over an hour to get in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 24 March, 2017, 10:06:44 am
Will this wind be so mighty as to lay low the mountains of the earth? :(

Bit like riding into a brick wall for three quarters of an hour.  Legs kept begging for mercy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 24 March, 2017, 11:47:06 am
Quote from: Pingu on 24 March, 2017, 09:19:59 am
Quote from: sg37409 on 24 March, 2017, 08:59:26 am
Beautiful morning today. Took a longer route in to be in the sunshine for longer. Some icy patches.

Were you affected by the snowpocalypse earlier in the week?

Only in as much as I chickened out and worked from home. Caught up on my quota of soakings later in the week.   Weather looks settled for the weekend, but my mums coming to stay for the weekend, so cant bvgger off the whole of sunday (mothers day) morning. Need to be back early for lunch.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 24 March, 2017, 07:30:24 pm
On the way there.. spring!  Sunshine!  Daffodils! An knee that didn't really hurt much for the first time in weeks!  Hurrah.

Then on the way home that back end got suddenly suspiciously bumpy.  On a blind corner with nowhere to pull over - no pavement, not even a verge at that spot - and a load of vehicles right up behind.  Managed to get around one more bend in the road and scramble onto the muddy grass to check. A visitation.  Bah.  There then followed by a 3 mile tramp homewards, pushing a sturdy hybrid with two reasonably full panniers, while making phone calls to organise Cub stuff that I wasn't going to be back in time for.

And now my knee hurts again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 27 March, 2017, 09:32:36 am
Dark again  ::-) When inspecting the front tyre on the commuter, they're not supposed to have right angles in them are they?, I managed to drop my rear light and it shattered, not the best start to the week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 March, 2017, 10:19:25 am
Friday legs.

And headwind.

Well, Friday body, really :/
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 27 March, 2017, 12:00:49 pm
Quote from: Si S on 27 March, 2017, 09:32:36 am
Dark again  ::-) ...

Me too!

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/small.php?size=350&file=Commute20170323_BeforeClockChange.png) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/Commute20170323_BeforeClockChange.png) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/small.php?size=350&file=Commute20170327_AfterClockChange.png) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/stuff/Commute20170327_AfterClockChange.png)
Last Thursday
This morning

It'll be almost a month before sunrise is back to the same time as last week!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 27 March, 2017, 08:53:13 pm
We've got that 'clear skies' problem here in the Frozen North.
That means it's cold enough for frost before the sun comes up and so barely above freezing for the ride in, and then double figures tropical temperature on the ride home.

Check the temperature profile:
https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1643249848

ETA:
I think with a bit of work, I could make my commute tracklog look like a Narwhal.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 28 March, 2017, 09:01:46 am
Not sure I like that cliff you ride off at 38:45, but if it's all in the name of art, that's OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 28 March, 2017, 10:18:47 am
First naked knees ride of the year on the way home last night :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 30 March, 2017, 09:42:13 am
An armwarmers and gilet day, coupled with a nice tailwind blat up Chorlton Road meant a good commute.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 30 March, 2017, 11:06:52 am
Good ride, marred only by a pass so close by a scaff lorry that the passenger had to look out of the window to call if they were 'clear'.

They were clear.  Waaaaay too close.  But they weren't actually touching.

>:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DuncanM on 30 March, 2017, 01:25:43 pm
Yesterday, on the commute home, I was just cruising because there was a headwind, so I thought I'd ride on the cycle path around Abingdon. First junction I came to there was nothing coming initially, so I didn't slow enough - then a car appeared and I had to emergency stop.  They stopped too, but it was clearly their right of way. The good news is that my brakes were very effective, and I've been reminded that riding on a cyclepath means you have to go slowly. The bad news is that it means that cyclepath is completely useless for me! And that I was a dope for trying to ride there in the first place without slowing at the junction.  :-[

And then I got to Southfield Road in Oxford (what passes for a steep hill in those parts), I stopped to let a car coming the other way come through (parking as traffic calming). A Mk2 golf came straight past me and meant that the whole circumstance turned into a huge jam! And then he and the Golf in front of that proceeded up the hill really slowly, meaning I had to stop 3 times and breath his petrol fumes (need to adjust the carb a bit) all the way up. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 30 March, 2017, 07:05:13 pm
Dunc.  Was that run on the new Cube?

Ugh.  Oil seed rape season has started.  From nought to a chokingly sweet emetic miasma in under a week.  Got weeks and weeks of it now.  Damned stuff should be napalmed into oblivion.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 30 March, 2017, 08:47:18 pm
Nice and warm.  Headwind out, but... fastest ever on the way back, but there was a decent tailwind, and I had someone doing a fair old pace to draft for quite a bit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DuncanM on 31 March, 2017, 07:56:25 am
Quote from: TheLurker on 30 March, 2017, 07:05:13 pm
Dunc.  Was that run on the new Cube?
Yes, I'm commuting on Wednesdays on the Cube. Keeping it all very lightweight - just carrying tools/tubes/waterproof and glasses. I think the Cube is the only bike I've been riding this year!
Cheers
Duncan
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 31 March, 2017, 10:57:52 am
It appears to be left hook Friday, I'm still not quite sure how I managed to avoid the third one.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: caerau on 03 April, 2017, 01:57:01 pm
Sad but true, it seems that the terrible news on Friday has got me thinking proper about cycling again - at last - and although I have never stopped commuting - that's been about it for nearly a year now.  So I gave the bike a lovely clean at the weekend  - combined with wanting to find out why it's been behaving a bit oddly recently - I had dark thoughts of a frame crack as it's felt unstable at the back on the occasion.


So anyway, couldn't find anything obvious wrong - certainly not with the frame and so I took it out on a 12 mile commute this morning down the Ely trail in Cardiff and across the Bay.  Glorious weather.


All was excellent, except for my fitness level, until.... er.... the crank fell off just as I was approaching the Principality Stadium.   :facepalm:


Got it back on but I've lost the end cap for the Hollowtech II crank.  Splines seem OK so I guess it's just a case of getting a new one.  That explains the weird behaviour then.  Knew something was up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 03 April, 2017, 09:19:32 pm
Rode the MTB (Kona Conder Cone) to work since I've fixed the brakes.  Rediscovered the pleasure of jumping off kerbs.  And some little kids said "look at the way that bike's going!"  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 04 April, 2017, 08:07:59 am
Got some legs today, must have been a tailwind
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 04 April, 2017, 09:55:13 am
Late start (tarried a while in my scratcher), but school holiday traffic levels and meant I got in on time.  Come to change into "normal" clothes and find I've forgotten my socks, so I'm sporting Altura Coolmax, in white, as I mince around the office.  Not too much of an issue.  Finding I left my shreddies at home as well was more of a bother.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 04 April, 2017, 01:06:16 pm
I have my own new bike shed (for the time-being, at least)


(https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2928/33373683090_268089d305_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/SR7Rg9)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 05 April, 2017, 08:47:52 am
A lot of our bike parking is taken up with people using it as a garage. Annoying as more and more of the "good spaces" are taken by folks leaving their bikes there for months.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 05 April, 2017, 07:41:39 pm
Me, for a change.
A rare but welcome "office hours" start.
After my second in 3 weeks pot-hole induced puncture, I'd put a spare wheel and tyre on the Disco (baby). Royce hub, CXP33 rim and 35mm* Marathon Supreme.
The original 28mm Supreme is toast but, thankfully, the rim seems to have survived. I'm not sure whether to try and claim off Trafford Council.

Anyway, the commute.
Going in was pretty uneventful apart from a close pass from a van where its wing mirror nearly took my head off. Not waiting for a wider bit of road probably saved her/him a good 10 seconds.
Coming home was hard work. It was quite a headwind. That's "quite a f*cking headwind".
Working on the bike later, I discovered that the front wheel wasn't spinning as freely as it should ............
Quite a f*cking headwind though.

I'm intending to be on the bike again tomorrow; 07.30 start. Forget it for Friday and Sunday (Saturday off**): 05.30  :(.


*Yes. F*uck me how big on that narrow rim ? "Looks like a light bulb" doesn't do it justice.
** We're going to the pub on Friday night. Not sure which one but we're going.



Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 05 April, 2017, 08:42:49 pm
Took the 50s clubman in for the first time in years.  zOMG it's fast, even with Durano tyres (a compromise between speed and psyclepath survival).  It even shrugs off headwinds - randonneur bars with the "splayed" drops put your arms quite close together when riding on the hoods.  An irritating light metallic rattle turned out to be the Specialized bottle cage - I don't think I've ever ridden it with an empty one before, since I used to take the cages off for commuting.  Other than that, it was perfect.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 05 April, 2017, 09:08:13 pm
I took 2 hours and 20 minutes to come home.

It was sunny, so I went exploring.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 05 April, 2017, 10:08:01 pm
Eventful....

(https://scontent.flhr2-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/17629672_10154988634271839_4769487414544442005_n.jpg?oh=074cac1b56dd74a8d95cccb00a14c0ca&oe=59541529)

(https://scontent.flhr2-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/17757500_10154988634261839_5887013387577992082_n.jpg?oh=250c736f54a5dab254e35b867d5aa70d&oe=595CA96F)

(https://scontent.flhr2-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/17523309_10154988634266839_1299398926362357523_n.jpg?oh=73e505cfffa373be1efb7ee9ec5226fe&oe=595CFCE9)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 05 April, 2017, 10:19:19 pm
Oops.

Proceed on stoker power to nearest bike shop...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 05 April, 2017, 10:46:11 pm
Walked the rest of the way and locked it in the school bike sheds before collecting it and walkign it home this evening.  Rang the bike shop where it was booked for a service in a couple of week's time to say they need to add some more to the shopping list and discovered that although they'd ordered the chainrings they hadn't actually booked the service, and they are completely booked out, so now it won't be in for nearer three weeks....

Fortuitously I had repaired the tube from V's rear wheel yesterday.  Less fortuitously, since refitting the wheel I'm getting an annoying rubbing from the disk brake which makes me very nervous that I've b0rked summat.... wondering if I should research buses for tomorrow's complicated work day, given my recent luck!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 06 April, 2017, 08:16:16 am
Quote from: Andrew Br on 05 April, 2017, 07:41:39 pm

Quite a f*cking headwind though.


and I thought it was just me being a slow fat lazy beggar.

A bit chilly again today meant one of those days whereby you've got to put some effort in to stay warm
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 06 April, 2017, 08:19:49 am
Quote from: CrinklyLion on 05 April, 2017, 10:46:11 pm
Walked the rest of the way and locked it in the school bike sheds before collecting it and walkign it home this evening.  Rang the bike shop where it was booked for a service in a couple of week's time to say they need to add some more to the shopping list and discovered that although they'd ordered the chainrings they hadn't actually booked the service, and they are completely booked out, so now it won't be in for nearer three weeks....

Fortuitously I had repaired the tube from V's rear wheel yesterday.  Less fortuitously, since refitting the wheel I'm getting an annoying rubbing from the disk brake which makes me very nervous that I've b0rked summat.... wondering if I should research buses for tomorrow's complicated work day, given my recent luck!

It's probably fine unless the wheel is really dragging. Disc brakes are good making noises after refitting wheels IME.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DuncanM on 06 April, 2017, 09:21:11 am
I took my bike to the "Bike Doctor" service at Milton Park yesterday, saying that my brake disc was making intermittent rubbing noises and could he have a look.
When I collected it, it wasn't spinning freely, but he said it was the brushes that hold the crudracer mudguard in place.
This morning, I removed said mudguard and rode to work - the intermittentness of the rubbing had been cured - it now rubbed ALL THE FSCKING TIME!  >:(

When I got to work I removed and refitted the wheel and the problem was the same, so I re-aligned the caliper again. It's now centred and silent.  :smug:
There is a minor issue in that you centre it, nip the bolts up, check, tighten a little, check, and then if you do the last half turn from "quite tight" to "definitely tight enough" it moves the damn caliper and I'm back to the rubbing again. Maybe I need another washer - will check with Broken Spoke this weekend...

Aside from that, nice ride - cold but sunny.  Met someone on a steel Genesis who said he was doing a ride to the coast on it tomorow evening - I have now forgotten where!  :-[
Cheers
Duncan
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 06 April, 2017, 11:17:11 am
A weird one this morning. Being a lovely morning (chilly but with blue sky, bright sunshine and a thin mist on the fields) I decided to leave home early and take a scenic detour. It was all very nice until I crossed my Friday Afternoon Bridge and rode into a bank of very cold fog. The next 1/2 mile was thick mist and lots of frost. Upon reaching Clophill my knees started shrieking "SOD THIS FOR A LARK" so I turned round and went back again. Over my Friday Afternoon Bridge I ran back into bright sunshine, blue sky, thin mist etc and had a very pleasant bimble back into work. The south side of The Mighty Flit was about 5 deg C warmer than the north. How odd.

I ended up doing 5.2 miles instead of the 9.6 I was intending.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 06 April, 2017, 01:18:08 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 06 April, 2017, 08:19:49 am
It's probably fine unless the wheel is really dragging. Disc brakes are good making noises after refitting wheels IME.

Indeed.  Double check the wheel's properly seated in the drop-outs, and if it spins freely then rubbing noises from the brake are mostly harmless, and tend to disappear with a bit of hard braking.  (Understood that circumstances conducive to hard rear-wheel braking are unlikely to appear on CrinklyLion's commute.)

The hardest thing about adjusting cable disc brakes is knowing when to stop...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 06 April, 2017, 04:16:08 pm
Cold this morning; the Garmin said 1.8 deg. C but it lies.
Cold coming home as well; I wore all the clothes that I'd put on to go in.
The headwind was still there.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 07 April, 2017, 08:57:30 am
Nice ride back yesterday evening on the brommie

(https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2857/33888971585_c802f58155.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/TCDQzx)Evening commute. (https://flic.kr/p/TCDQzx) by sg310 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/24775321@N02/), on Flickr
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 11 April, 2017, 08:15:41 am
It's not unusual to see horses on Irlam Road, although its not everyday you see one trying to get through someone's front door  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 13 April, 2017, 08:56:25 am
The laundry wasn't quite dry...brrrrr
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 18 April, 2017, 10:04:01 am
Big diesel slick today  :demon: Managed to get rear wheel spin on the Pomp when pulling away from a roundabout because of it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 19 April, 2017, 11:42:39 am
Pleasant one.  Decent weather and the only bad-ish driving was 1 bus. Just sauntered in, could quite happily have ridden on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 19 April, 2017, 04:43:28 pm
First dirty off road commute of the year this morning.

No comedy off road moments.

They are probably waiting for the homeward journey ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 April, 2017, 04:54:04 pm
Quote from: Pingu on 18 April, 2017, 10:04:01 am
Big diesel slick today  :demon: Managed to get rear wheel spin on the Pomp when pulling away from a roundabout because of it.
Well done staying upright!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 19 April, 2017, 06:17:02 pm
I had to herd a daft sheep on the way to work this morning, and the drizzle on the way home showed up the oil slick all the way through Beckermet and a mile further down the road. I thought motorists complained about oil and petrol being too expensive. In which case why are they chucking it all over my commute?!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 19 April, 2017, 06:55:36 pm
This evening saw the ceremonial unshipping of the winter front lamps.  A Lezyne (to be seen in the tree corridors) blinky has been fitted for tomorrow morning's workbound trip.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mark on 20 April, 2017, 05:19:34 pm
The new employer offers: indoor bike storage, extra locker space for cycle commuters, men's and women's shower facilities, and nominal incentives for people who cycle to work frequently. Best of all and a refreshing change from the previous workplace, cycling to work is considered more or less normal behavior, and nobody looks at you funny when you ride a bicycle or commit other acts of physical exertion. I think I'm going to like it here.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 20 April, 2017, 05:22:30 pm
Are you still in the Frisco area?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 20 April, 2017, 05:37:22 pm
Quote from: mark on 20 April, 2017, 05:19:34 pm
The new employer offers: indoor bike storage, extra locker space for cycle commuters, men's and women's shower facilities, and nominal incentives for people who cycle to work frequently. Best of all and a refreshing change from the previous workplace, cycling to work is considered more or less normal behavior, and nobody looks at you funny when you ride a bicycle or commit other acts of physical exertion. I think I'm going to like it here.
Every employer should be like that. Lucky you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mark on 20 April, 2017, 05:46:49 pm
Quote from: Feanor on 20 April, 2017, 05:22:30 pm
Are you still in the Frisco area?
High rent and long winters drove me out of Frisco a while ago, I'm now just west of Denver.
Quote from: hatler on 20 April, 2017, 05:37:22 pm
Every employer should be like that. Lucky you.
I won't be getting rich here, but the work environment promises to be a lot more pleasant. You're right, society in general should be more encouraging of cycling and of physical activity in general.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 20 April, 2017, 07:13:34 pm
Workbound.  An abundance of wildlife including a black pheasant, roe (fallow?) deer and two buzzards flying very close at nought feet; one near Netherton, t'other out by Poulton Fields.  Was also passed, effortlessly - and left for dead,  by a silent type wearing "Ride 24/7" kit (an LBS in Cirencester M'Lud) at Ampney St. Peter.

Homebound.  Astounding the difference even the gentlest, barely perceptible, tail wind can make to journey time.  Well that or the massive reduction in weight following the removal of the winter lamps. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 21 April, 2017, 09:17:44 am
Different bike, different route.  Its as good as a rest  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 21 April, 2017, 09:39:40 am
Sometimes it feels like the bike is doing most of the work :)

Set PB for inward commute.

Maaaaaay be slower homeward ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 21 April, 2017, 10:50:10 am
This mornings ride in was the first off road excursion on the ascent of Quarry Wood Road. Nearly made it to the top of the track. It was just the turn left at the end which is directly after the steepest section that had me dabbing and dismounting. Another 18" worth of forward momentum would have seen me staying in the saddle.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 21 April, 2017, 10:39:26 pm
This evening cycled from Westminster to Upton Park in the company of Titanium Dave, not OTP but known to a good number of forumites.  It was nice having company for a change, though keeping up with him and carrying on a conversation left me knackered!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hubner on 22 April, 2017, 07:57:24 pm
I think it hasn't rained here (London) for about 2 weeks or more! I think currently it the best weather for commuting; not hot and not cold!

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 24 April, 2017, 02:20:39 pm
Made it to the top of the off road track AND executed the turn without dabbing or dismounting. It was a ver ver close thing however with the front wheel bobbing up with each pedal stroke and breakfast reminding me it was there......
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 24 April, 2017, 04:55:15 pm
Snow this afternoon  :hand:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 24 April, 2017, 06:04:23 pm
Really wishing I took some gears today. My ears are still ringing from the ride crawl home.

This is more like February weather than late April
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 25 April, 2017, 08:17:12 am
They seem to have started the work on the Stretford Regeneration thing, as a result they've switched the lights off here (https://goo.gl/maps/EiRyQ9Y41ns)...freakin terrifying
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 25 April, 2017, 09:19:15 am
What happened to the nice warm weather? :o

Yesterday I was in 3/4 tights and a YACF jersey, this morning I needed full length tights again, a fleece over the jersey and gloves with my mitts.  It was over 10°C cooler ... 13-14°C yesterday, and 3°C today ! (and last week, it was even warmer).

Having said that, it was dry, and sunny for the second half of my ride.  Cooler weather is easier to deal with than wet weather.  This time of year is always a bit more unpredictable than the rest of the year.  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 25 April, 2017, 12:37:51 pm
Farkin' cold in the city of London. Jesus..... It was ok yesterday!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 26 April, 2017, 11:42:41 am
Back to the full kit and kaboodle today after being hammered by hail last night
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 26 April, 2017, 07:42:56 pm
Odd one today. Cold and a nagging north wind which has a slight head wind effect and all the way to work my head was saying "Go faster!" and the legs were saying "Get knotted, we want to be back in that nice warm bed." so I was expecting a 1h 5m trip but it turned into a (just) sub 1 hour ride.  Baffled by that.  Where (and how) the blazes did I make up 5 to 6 minutes?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 27 April, 2017, 02:24:04 pm
Got told to "Get on the fucking pavement!" by a scratter in a Clio.  I regret that my response was equally coarse.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jakob W on 27 April, 2017, 04:04:39 pm
Windy and near-freezing rain, boo.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 28 April, 2017, 08:10:46 am
Taking it easy today, I've been struggling in those cold north winds since being totally undressed in the hail the other night
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 02 May, 2017, 02:42:21 pm
It was pleasantly sunny on the way in, but unfortunately one of those tiny little street cleaners, was polishing the mud and dirt to a fine consistency under the bridges on Tooting Bec Common.  Those paviors can be slippery when wet, at the best of times.  I was further to the left than normal, because the cleaner driver was a bit erratic, and I didn't entirely trust him.  I'm not sure what exactly happened, but I suspect my wheel caught on the edge of a slightly raised slab ... <bang>

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/cycling/Commute20170502_TootigBec_200.jpg)
YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qST3EO2A6AU)

That coated my entire left side with dirt, and a couple of small grazes and bruises.  Somehow, and I still haven't worked out how, the left hand side of my handle bar has been slightly bent inwards.  It's not a terribly big issue, and I'll risk continuing to use it, until I get a replacement, and redo the handlebar tape, which needs replacing anyway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 02 May, 2017, 02:46:49 pm
Oh dear Tim, bouncing down the road is never fun.

I found a council grasscutter to draft this morning, big sharp pointy things directly ahead do make you pay attention.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: woollypigs on 02 May, 2017, 02:49:15 pm
TimO: But is the bike ok?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 02 May, 2017, 02:52:57 pm
Ouch Tim.
Is the KOTM jersey ok?  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 May, 2017, 02:53:40 pm
Bah!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 02 May, 2017, 04:25:41 pm
Aside from the slightly bent handlebar, which I really can't work out, the bike appears to be fine.  I'm paranoid enough to check the bike over fairly thoroughly, after any significant thump.  The KOTM jersey doesn't appear to have any new holes in it, although it's going to need a wash this evening.  There's a hole in the left hand elbow, from last November (https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=26458.msg2105207#msg2105207), but I don't appear to have added in a matching one on the right side.  It seems, that it was time for my 6-monthly "throw myself at the ground".  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 02 May, 2017, 05:14:56 pm
Ref the LH end of the handlebar, perhaps you were holding it as you hit the deck and your brute strength bent it ?

And ouch !
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 02 May, 2017, 06:06:38 pm
Ouch. I hope you don't feel too stiff in the morning TimO

My commute was in lovely weather and completely uneventful. I had to cut off the extra I was doing as I think I left my legs somewhere near the summit of Honister Pass yesterday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 02 May, 2017, 06:24:22 pm
Reliably making it in under 1hr 20mins and home under 1hr 10mins so quite pleased given I couldn't do either under an hour and half when I started here 18 months ago.

Was trying not to laugh at someone telling me their commute of two trains and a 20 minute walk is exhausting as a comparison to cycling over the Cotswolds.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 02 May, 2017, 07:18:07 pm
It's probably more exhausting but in a different way.

TimO: How are the paving stones?  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 02 May, 2017, 07:56:35 pm
I used the Brompton, the red pimped titanium one, after removing the mudguards last night and fitting the cable fender disc and free-standing hook (these are the two parts you need to convert an L-type into a C-type).  As well as looking a lot cooler, it's quieter and a bit lighter.  Keeps up with anything else.

I might have to open up the hub to swap out the axle key and convert it to an AW indicator.  It's the only AM I have with the proper two-piece indicator (where gear adjustment is checked on the left of the hub) and I never quite trust it as it's unscrewed itself on long rides.  Can't use threadlock in case any escapes into the mechanism, and the very fine threads that join the two halves together can't be done up too tight, either.  No-one seems to know why SA bothered with this type of indicator when an AW one is much simpler and more reliable; it was suggested to me that the normal one couldn't take the spring tension but the spring is exactly the same as an AW spring.  I routinely convert them now,
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 03 May, 2017, 07:34:19 am
Quote from: hatler on 02 May, 2017, 05:14:56 pm
Ref the LH end of the handlebar, perhaps you were holding it as you hit the deck and your brute strength bent it ? ...

That was the only thing I could think of, but I didn't think I was that strong, or aluminium was that weak!

Quote from: mcshroom on 02 May, 2017, 06:06:38 pm
Ouch. I hope you don't feel too stiff in the morning TimO ...

I was worried about that too, and intended to make sure I had a glass of water and pain killers next to the bed, having found myself having difficulty getting out of bed, in the past!

Whilst I'm a little stiff, and was uncomfortable overnight, it's not really very significant, and the cycle to work will probably loosen things up.  The commute home certainly did yesterday.

It's a shame that the weather looks so dull outside, today.  it was far nicer yesterday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 03 May, 2017, 12:21:40 pm
Glad you're ok Tim.

A couple of cyclists caught me at the lights at Stretford, one "said there's hardly any wind today, quite still" and I muttered, then we turned north east and they both sat on my wheel as I fought the wind.  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 03 May, 2017, 12:31:55 pm
Quote from: sg37409 on 21 April, 2017, 09:17:44 am
Different bike, different route.  Its as good as a rest  :thumbsup:
This.

Over here: Clicky (http://magic.defra.gov.uk/MagicMap.aspx?startTopic=Designations&activelayer=lnrIndex&query=REF_CODE%3D%271481538%27)
For A View
(http://i952.photobucket.com/albums/ae7/fboab/20170503_071749.jpg)
Then Silly Sustrans Gates
(http://i952.photobucket.com/albums/ae7/fboab/20170503_073611.jpg)
The Bridge held up by traffic
(http://i952.photobucket.com/albums/ae7/fboab/20170503_080722.jpg)
Wildlife
(http://i952.photobucket.com/albums/ae7/fboab/20170503_083136.jpg)
But I forgot all the kit, and needed my colleague to help with the last mile  :facepalm:
(http://i952.photobucket.com/albums/ae7/fboab/20170503_084907.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 03 May, 2017, 01:22:26 pm
Wow! If I had a commute like that I might even be happy to do your job. Happy, not able. Whatever your job is.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 04 May, 2017, 08:25:24 am
Massive tailwind wasted in traffic last night.

A crap nights sleep coupled with a tough wind meant I was less than amused at this (https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=2177.msg2163708#msg2163708) upon arrival
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 04 May, 2017, 08:43:24 am
Wore gloves this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 04 May, 2017, 02:27:35 pm
Made it home last night under an hour, well 59 minutes 40 seconds.

When I started this commute in November 2015 It was taking an hour and a half, I've been reliably down to 70 minutes home for a while so i'ts good to finally crack the hour mark. I just need to sort the inward journey which has a lot more climbing.

D.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 04 May, 2017, 05:45:19 pm
Last evening on the way home from work, a first.
My usual commute is closed for a couple of weeks due to roadworks. Negotiating the right turn across a reasonably busy road (for round here) another cyclist caught me up. We chatted briefly, then ended up in single file. About half way back to our village (for it turned out he lives just down the road), he overtook, saying that he'd been drafting me for too long and was about time he did some work. He then pulled me the rest of the way to his house!  :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 04 May, 2017, 08:10:58 pm
I dunno what's going on with the wildlife hereabouts. Some days nought, other days (today) it's like the disembarkation from Noah's ark.

Horrid headwind for the first 10 miles homebound.  Meh!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 09 May, 2017, 07:50:08 am
It was the driver of an David Brown Aston Martin who slowed his vehicle, holding up the great queueue of cars behind him, and waved me acrorst the roundabout this morning :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TJG on 09 May, 2017, 01:45:50 pm
Had the closest pass for a long time from a lorry who started ok but seemed to forget about his trailer. A couple of inches closer and I would have bailed onto the verge. 

The next lorry sat very patiently behind as I trundled up the hill so I pulled onto a driveway to let him pass.  Thought I had a trackstand nailed and would be able to just ride on until he honked in thanks and I nearly jumped off the bike. 

Oddly the first just felt normal and the latter took about 10 mins for my heart rate to recover from!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 10 May, 2017, 01:27:27 pm
First commute for a wee while without that chilly easterly headwind.  I prefer a tailwind to work, a headwind home.  Well, I prefer no wind but you know what I mean
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 10 May, 2017, 03:35:17 pm
I'm the opposite since I find I find I'm slow in the mornings irrespective of the wind but really enjoy a tailwind home, today looks like it's going be one of those headwind both ways days, albeit a very gentle breeze.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 10 May, 2017, 08:07:06 pm
Quote from: Si S on 10 May, 2017, 03:35:17 pm
I'm the opposite since I find I find I'm slow in the mornings irrespective of the wind but really enjoy a tailwind home, ...
One concurs.  However one should bear in mind the first three rules of cycling; which are:

1 - It's always a headwind.
2 - It's always a headwind.
3 - It's never a tailwind.

Now them's _proper_ cycling rules, not like that guff the the voluminous-arty spout.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 10 May, 2017, 10:27:05 pm
Lost the front wheel on a turn in the woods. Bikes OK :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 10 May, 2017, 10:41:51 pm
A slog getting home today. Hopefully just lack of sleep catching me out and not the slight gearing increase on the fixed (16t instead of 17t).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 11 May, 2017, 07:42:58 am
Where is everybody? On my 2.5 mile bimble this morning I was overtaken by one car, saw two cars going the other way, and only saw two dog-walkers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: telstarbox on 11 May, 2017, 10:04:18 am
Very busy on the last part of my commute today (Vauxhall to Mayfair). The wide ASL box at Parliament Square was completely full which I haven't seen before.
People getting out for Global Bike to Work Day or just a coincidence?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: phantasmagoriana on 11 May, 2017, 02:34:37 pm
As it's Global Bike to Work Day, I made the effort and cycle commuted (took the longer off-road route, an epic 1.4 miles). ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 11 May, 2017, 03:58:08 pm
Busy along the embankment today and yesterday. Looking rather narrow now. I'll see if it a new norm now the winds has stop being so fucking cold!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DuncanM on 12 May, 2017, 11:33:17 am
Cruised in yesterday - seemed like very little traffic up to about 7. Blasted home - much more traffic in parts, but very little between Abingdon and Oxford, which was weird.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 12 May, 2017, 12:31:35 pm
Really struggled today, enough that a fellow regular commented on my lack of pace. Can't decide if it's because of:

1) Eating breakfast, first weekday brekkie for decades - doc says I've got to stop the fasted commute thing
2) Nagging headwind
3) First 5 day week for a while
4) Friday legs
5) All of the above.

Ah well, I'll just pootle home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 12 May, 2017, 12:44:36 pm
Why did your doc advise against fasted commuting ?

That's what I did for years.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 12 May, 2017, 01:05:28 pm
Quote from: hatler on 12 May, 2017, 12:44:36 pm
Why did your doc advise against fasted commuting ?

That's what I did for years.

I've been having some issue's for a little while, not eating until 11 o'clock then about an hour later having a very urgent need to pay a somewhat explosive visit, this has led to other painful problems (https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=80971.msg2166428#msg2166428). I only realised it wasn't happening at the weekends during our discussion, the only difference being weekend rides start with brekkie.

As I say I've done it for decades and it's only been a problem recently. On a sample size of 1 day it looks promising  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 12 May, 2017, 01:13:15 pm
Got it. Thanks. I didn't experience any of that. Phew.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 13 May, 2017, 09:41:35 am
Quote from: SteveC on 04 May, 2017, 05:45:19 pm
Last evening on the way home from work, a first.
My usual commute is closed for a couple of weeks due to roadworks. Negotiating the right turn across a reasonably busy road (for round here) ...

Roadworks causing you to change your route can be good.  I've had to do it a few times, and it does make you wake up and look around a bit more, as well as a change being almost as good as a rest. :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 13 May, 2017, 10:30:44 am
Quote from: Si S on 12 May, 2017, 12:31:35 pm
1) Eating breakfast, first weekday brekkie for decades - doc says I've got to stop the fasted commute thing
It amazes me that people can do this without collapsing in a heap by the side of the road.  I've _never_ been able to ride/exercise whilst fasted.  First memory I have of it going horribly wrong was when I was about 13 or 14.  One mile, more or less uphill all the way, from home to the shop to start my paper round.  Got to the shop, had to sit on the ground head down to stop myself from fainting. Strobing vision, dizziness, nausea the lot.  Horrid.  Even now I can get visual disturbance/strobing on a short (15 mile) fueled run if breakfast was inadequate.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 13 May, 2017, 10:59:20 am
Obviously it's all horses, courses, gouts and all that. I'm one of those who can ride happily fairly empty/without brekkie, but the flip side of that is that I'd never learned the benefit of proper nutrition. Oh, and don't enjoy riding on a full stomach.

My new! Improved! routine is to have something before I set off on any commute, possibly just a bit of banana, and break after an hour for a chewy bar or the like if it's a long one. My recent Spain/Portugal trip is the first time I've taken feeding seriously, and it really helped (doh!  :facepalm:)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 14 May, 2017, 09:04:21 pm
Whereas if I had to break after an hour on my commute, I would conclude I was living too far from work. Or maybe more likely working too far from home. But then, if I lived in London, an hour's commute would probably would be inevitable.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 15 May, 2017, 08:50:38 am
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 14 May, 2017, 09:04:21 pm
Whereas if I had to break after an hour on my commute, I would conclude I was living too far from work. Or maybe more likely working too far from home. But then, if I lived in London, an hour's commute would probably would be inevitable.

It's only very occasionally that I have to go to West London these days on my commute (of course on those days I do, it then involves a full load: towel, laptop, clothes etc), but there are few commutes into central London that would take more than an hour. The M25 is no more than 20 miles as the crow flies from Charing Cross, mostly 16-17 miles or less. A 10 mile radius, which would be about 12-13 miles or approximately an hour on the roads encompasses all of the North & South circular plus some. It must be said that to achieve 12-13 mph average, you do have to ride reasonably fast. Any faster tends to indicate risk taking/law bending or/and better than normal conditions.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 15 May, 2017, 10:00:02 am
So you normally get to work with your chewy bar unchewed. Then it's time for breakfast!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DuncanM on 15 May, 2017, 03:36:17 pm
When I commute by bike, I get up, throw my bike clothes on and set off. Then I breakfast when I get to work. I started this practise when I was working in London and used to get the 5:45 coach, and I carry on now. Breakfast takes time and means the traffic is worse or I have to get up earlier...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 15 May, 2017, 05:28:22 pm
Quote from: Ham on 15 May, 2017, 08:50:38 am
... It must be said that to achieve 12-13 mph average, you do have to ride reasonably fast. Any faster tends to indicate risk taking/law bending or/and better than normal conditions.

On my commute, from Croydon to South Kensington, which is 12 miles on the way home, anything less than 55 minutes is good.  My all time record time is 45 minutes (ie about 16mph average) and that required that I was feeling good, the weather was benign, the traffic was light, more than the normal number of lights were on green, and I probably took greater risks with changing lights than I normally would.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 May, 2017, 10:43:09 am
Nice ride today. :)

First ride with both short sleeves and shorts.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TJG on 16 May, 2017, 01:07:52 pm
Lovely and warm but the sky fell on my head in the last couple of miles.  Not seen any of this wet stuff for a while.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 16 May, 2017, 02:08:51 pm
I wore too much in, this morning, but the forecast for tomorrow is wet enough that I doubt I'll be wearing less tomorrow.  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 16 May, 2017, 10:06:30 pm
Back to summer kit.  Saw a few boil-in-the-bag cyclists who hadn't bothered to check the temperature before dressing.  Got wet on the way home.  Half price Boardman rain top from Halfrauds turns out to be very good, even if it is SMIDSY black.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 17 May, 2017, 08:43:09 am
Waiting at the lights last night and a regular who I haven't seen for a while pulled up and we spent a minute or so catching up before the lights changed and I led off cruising at my usual 30 ish kph, the he came past with a grin and said 'lets put some effort into this'. Bleedin heck, 40+ into a cross headwind was really testing me and I was rather grateful to see the traffic jam at Urmston due to the temporary lights.

A combination of that and being overdressed due to laundry based clothing decisions meant this morning was rather steady.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 17 May, 2017, 12:23:50 pm
Is 40+ your age or a speed?  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 17 May, 2017, 12:57:23 pm
Quote from: rogerzilla on 17 May, 2017, 12:23:50 pm
Is 40+ your age or a speed?  ;D

Both  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 17 May, 2017, 07:25:07 pm
A good day for Wrens this morning.  Seemed to be one singing every few hundred yards and a perfect view of one singing its little heart out just before I got to the main road.  Not so many Yellowhammers this year.  Which is odd.  They're usually close to ubiquitous on my route and I've seen and heard very few so far.

Wasn't anywhere  near as wet as the Meteorological Shroud Wavers were banging on about last night.  Didn't get any more than slightly damp work-bound and only ordinarily wet on the homeward trip. 

All in all a good day to ride a bike.  Such a pity about the bit between the bike rides. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 17 May, 2017, 09:21:52 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 17 May, 2017, 07:25:07 pm

Wasn't anywhere  near as wet as the Meteorological Shroud Wavers were banging on about last night.  Didn't get any more than slightly damp work-bound and only ordinarily wet on the homeward trip. 


Same here in S Wales (or is that where you are?).  Heavy rain forecast throughout my commuting time and beyond - as the last 2 mornings have been.  Turned out overcast but dry.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 17 May, 2017, 09:39:44 pm
Bottom RH corner of Glos.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 May, 2017, 03:40:20 pm
Didn't commute by bike this morning :-[

Too wiped out by torrential rain yesterday, out of which I bailed (saving c.5km, or a third of the ride).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DuncanM on 19 May, 2017, 02:14:13 pm
Was supposed to ride Wendesday and Thursday.  Bailed out of both due to irritating thumb knack.
I removed the (zinc oxide) strapping tape last night. I didn't have any under-wrap when I put it on.  Ouch that hurt! I still have the nice red (hairless) mark on my wrist today!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 23 May, 2017, 10:09:44 pm
Burnt arms i think.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 24 May, 2017, 08:41:36 am
Left late, arrived early, thank you Travis Perkins
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 25 May, 2017, 10:58:28 am
First of 2017. 44.5km of hot. Great view from Clifton Suspension Bridge.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 25 May, 2017, 01:44:02 pm
Had a great view of a roadie being nearly wiped out by a Jerk inna Merc on Marlow High Street.

delivery lorry parked and taking up the opposite lane. Roadie is just drawing adjacent to the lorry when the Jerk coming the other way spies a parking space opposite the lorry. he goes for it, completely ignoring/ oblivious to the presence of the roadie.

Jerk heard me call him a cnut as I passed. Roadie was having palpitations.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 25 May, 2017, 03:02:17 pm
Me for the first time in too long. Since getting a car I hadn't ridden to the office* but todays weather was just too good.


*n.b. I have only been in my base office for about 10 days in 10 weeks so there haven't been that many opportunities to ride in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Moultonaught on 25 May, 2017, 03:05:16 pm
glorious commute in Oxfordshire/Bucks borders and then across London in the sunshine on the new fixed commuter.  I'm really enjoying riding fixed again. My legs aren't feeling the change to regular fixed riding as much as my (lack of) core muscles which are having to work in ways they are not used to  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 25 May, 2017, 03:23:43 pm
Cruising along and got passed by the Warrington road club guy and I let him go, he got stuck at the temporary lights so I was about 3 cars back when they changed and could see put him in an effort to close the gap to the tractor in front and I thought 'I'll have a bit of that', massive effort to get on his wheel but he graciously towed me up to the tractor and we enjoyed a nice social cruise all the way to Stretford.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 25 May, 2017, 07:00:38 pm
See also "Today's Motorised Moron".

In other news, lovely close view of a heron as I rode over the bridge at Quenington and a stunningly bright (in full sun by then) large roe deer out by Poulton fields.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 26 May, 2017, 08:15:55 am
I had a bit of an extended commute as I had to pick up some bike bits, very nice cruise along the bridgewater canal, apart from the punctures but the goo took care if it and I had just had to top the rear. Really felt the lack of a water bottle by the time I got home.

Not a lot in the legs this morning
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 26 May, 2017, 08:43:23 am
I'm delighted to say that I should be contributing to this thread on a meaningful basis once again fairly soon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jakob W on 26 May, 2017, 08:48:11 am
Congratulations! OTOH, sorry to hear your professional ski tour bum plan didn't work out ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 26 May, 2017, 08:56:34 am
That sounds like excellent news, Hatler.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 26 May, 2017, 09:17:09 am
Not an actual commute (although it did take me back to my "office") but being out just after 8 a.m. on a weekday on familiar roads is interesting. In a good way. More bikes than cars queueing at the lights!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 26 May, 2017, 09:37:11 am
Quote from: Jakob W on 26 May, 2017, 08:48:11 am
Congratulations! OTOH, sorry to hear your professional ski tour bum plan didn't work out ;D
Yeah. That's a real bummer. I could have done with a foot loose and fancy free season in the hills.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 26 May, 2017, 09:39:25 am
Quote from: Jurek on 26 May, 2017, 08:56:34 am
That sounds like excellent news, Hatler.
Not only excellent, but also rather necessary. There's only so long one can live on a redundo payout. The slightly scary thing is that it's slap bang in the middle of the City. All my previous cyclo-commuting was heading away from the Big Smoke.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 26 May, 2017, 10:11:04 am
Quote from: hatler on 26 May, 2017, 09:39:25 am
Quote from: Jurek on 26 May, 2017, 08:56:34 am
That sounds like excellent news, Hatler.
Not only excellent, but also rather necessary. There's only so long one can live on a redundo payout. The slightly scary thing is that it's slap bang in the middle of the City. All my previous cyclo-commuting was heading away from the Big Smoke.
I'm sure that you'll be fine - though I must confess I'm glad my commute is mostly against the flow...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 26 May, 2017, 10:28:59 am
Anything to get my legs working again on a regular basis has to be good.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 26 May, 2017, 12:53:33 pm
Quote from: hatler on 26 May, 2017, 08:43:23 am
I'm delighted to say that I should be contributing to this thread on a meaningful basis once again fairly soon.

Great news!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: simonp on 26 May, 2017, 11:52:56 pm
Not today but yesterday - a 60 mile round trip.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 28 May, 2017, 04:48:05 pm
Seen today on a ride into Crawley, outside Costa's in the County Mall: a servicing stand. Pillar with two arms for hanging up a bike, with tools on wires and a track pump bolted to the ground. Great and welcome idea; I give it a maximum life of two weeks before destruction.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 28 May, 2017, 06:41:23 pm
Quote from: Steph on 28 May, 2017, 04:48:05 pm
Seen today on a ride into Crawley, outside Costa's in the County Mall: a servicing stand. Pillar with two arms for hanging up a bike, with tools on wires and a track pump bolted to the ground. Great and welcome idea; I give it a maximum life of two weeks before destruction.

Seems like an odd place for one.  Usually they're the sort of thing you find in cycle hubs (which confusingly aren't something you build a wheel around) and on railway stations where they're trying to win a cycles-not-actually-travelling-by-rail award.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 28 May, 2017, 07:23:07 pm
It's right by the Sheffield stands, which were actually reduced in number so the coffee shop could extend outside the Mall to cater for junkies.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 29 May, 2017, 12:12:56 pm
Quote from: Steph on 28 May, 2017, 04:48:05 pm
Seen today on a ride into Crawley, outside Costa's in the County Mall: a servicing stand. Pillar with two arms for hanging up a bike, with tools on wires and a track pump bolted to the ground. Great and welcome idea; I give it a maximum life of two weeks before destruction.

They installed a couple of those, outside of our bike storage areas.  The pumps didn't work for very long, because they don't bother with actually replacing the seals.  The tools sort of work, but are painfully difficult to use, because of the heavy duty cabling.  There is some use, in times of desperation, but 99% of those involve the need for a pump, which they virtually never sort out.

At one point, they replaced a failed pump with a much heavier duty one.  That lasted longer, before failing due to a lack of any maintenance.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 29 May, 2017, 01:08:20 pm
Well, the POBscrotes on BSOs were riding round it and trying to see if they could jerk the cables free...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 29 May, 2017, 01:25:52 pm
Quote from: Steph on 29 May, 2017, 01:08:20 pm
Well, the POBscrotes on BSOs were riding round it and trying to see if they could jerk the cables free...

It would be rare-ish to see scrotes on BSOs in South Ken, and even less likely on Campus.  If they did appear, Security may notice them, and chase them off eventually, so I doubt our work stands would provide them with enough amusement.

There's actually a proper work-stand, provided by the BUG, at the back of the bike store, but apparently even their pump was knackered, the last time I talked to someone about it.  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 30 May, 2017, 08:31:37 am
I really should know by now to test whatever is you've fettled before the first commute of the week. I fitted a new shifter on Saturday so the old one could go to torslanda with the rest of the goodies for a new commuter, obviously didn't seat the gear cable properly and only had the top few gears so a delay while roadside indexing occurred.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 02 June, 2017, 08:55:10 am
1st sandals commute, yeh !  :thumbsup:

Got a head shake from another commuter for stopping in a traffic queue I presume and forced him to wobble around me. Auch well.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DuncanM on 02 June, 2017, 10:32:34 am
Yesterday's commutes were much faster than normal - hanging onto the team TT guys with the club has clearly made me faster! Exceptionally hot, and very little traffic (presumably down to school holidays).
As I overtook a dad and 2 kids I got told to tuck in - dad thought I was his son riding in the middle of the road! :) He apologised, but I thought it was funny. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 05 June, 2017, 08:42:53 am
First one on the new commuter, it's never going to be a flying machine but it's about time I had something a bit more practical than my dearly departed Trek. I reckon the front end needs to come down a bit yet and it'd probably benefit by fitting a rack that's not made from recycled scaffold poles, but I'm very happy with.

In other news I'm not sure that the Manchester rush hour in foul weather is the best time to be learning to ride clipless, the poor chap had two moments in the space of half a mile, he fitted them last night.  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 05 June, 2017, 05:50:57 pm
Wet. Not been that wet for ages. Possibly all winter (there must have been one or two appalling rides, surely).
But it wasn't as windy as I'd feared. Part of my ride goes past field entrances where a southerly cross-wind hits you all of a sudden.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 06 June, 2017, 08:07:26 am
Flaming June in Manchester, that'll be winter boots required then.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 07 June, 2017, 08:40:20 am
Mrs P offered me a lift home yesterday and I accepted  :-[ It was rather soggy weather, though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 07 June, 2017, 09:27:09 am
All getting a bit silly now, so many branches in the road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 07 June, 2017, 09:51:13 am
A couple of flooded patches this morning, a lot worse than I'd expected.  Guess the drains are clogged with leaves and stuff.
Stopped at the rememberance of the cyclist killed last week. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 07 June, 2017, 10:07:53 am
First use of the bike this week, as I returned from a jaunt to San Sebastian on Sunday night with stomach cramps. Actually woke me up in the night with it. So walked Monday and Tuesday.

We've needed rain down here – but isn't helped with added wind! Incidentally, San Sebastian was soggy too! But not before we managed a wonderful coastal walk which, at places, had us scrambling a bit. Apparently, part of our treacherous route, wasn't on the correct path. Who'd have thought it!? It was beautiful though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: lahoski on 07 June, 2017, 10:31:05 am
Back on the bike this week after over a years worth of driving to work.

I already feel more like myself than I have for ages. Anyone else have a real emotional attachment to their identity as a cycle commuter?

Picked a good week though, rite?  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 07 June, 2017, 10:34:48 am
I was a bit late today, so hit almost maximum cyclists on Queenstown Road (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.4682497,-0.1503585,3a,75y,17.69h,95.28t/data=!3m7!1e1!3m5!1s7K8tj7bzbF9U_8ji5Y6nhw!2e0!6s%2F%2Fgeo0.ggpht.com%2Fcbk%3Fpanoid%3D7K8tj7bzbF9U_8ji5Y6nhw%26output%3Dthumbnail%26cb_client%3Dmaps_sv.tactile.gps%26thumb%3D2%26w%3D203%26h%3D100%26yaw%3D184.1851%26pitch%3D0%26thumbfov%3D100!7i13312!8i6656), and thereabouts.  The sunshine, compared to yesterday's rain, also brought out a lot more cyclists !

Rather spectacularly, one cyclist seemed to suffer a rather extreme melt down.  Turning off of Windmill Drive, onto the Northbound cycle path, across the northern part of Clapham Common, a cyclist coming towards us signaled less than the other cyclist considered adequate.  She proceeded to have a shout at him, and across the Common they both seemed to be expressing their disfavour with the other, albeit she was louder and somewhat incoherent.  She had a brief shout at him, at the cycle path's junction onto Cedars Road, and then significantly more screaming and shouting at the next junction, with Lavender Hill/Wandsworth Road.

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/cycling/small.php?size=400&file=Commute20170607_Frame.jpg)
YouTube Video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nI1XZHHtWIc)

It was the sort of behaviour you normally get from a car driver, when you delay them for a couple of seconds.  I'm not quite sure what the problem was, because at most he delayed her for a fraction of a second, and there was no risk of any danger to her.  At worst he seems to have indicated poorly, but she jumped both traffic lights at the ends of that cycle path, so was hardly in a position to take any sort of moral high ground.  Talking to another cyclist, I gain the impression that she has a reputation for this sort of behaviour.  If she makes a habit of that, at someone point someone is going to hit her, or worse, and the stress alone is surely not healthy.  Very odd, and a little disturbing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 07 June, 2017, 10:37:02 am
The school run is back on this week and it makes my commute somewhat more horrible.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 07 June, 2017, 11:22:48 am
Quote from: sg37409 on 07 June, 2017, 09:51:13 am
A couple of flooded patches this morning, a lot worse than I'd expected.  Guess the drains are clogged with leaves and stuff.


At one stage, stopped a traffic light on CS3 (Cycle Swimway 3) just through one of those, I turned to a fellow rider and said "What make is your bike?.."(cue a puzzled expression)".... mine's a Ford"  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 07 June, 2017, 01:05:26 pm
Quote from: lahoski on 07 June, 2017, 10:31:05 am
Anyone else have a real emotional attachment to their identity as a cycle commuter?
Cycle commuting is very important to me: it makes me feel good, keeps me well, is efficient, reliable, cheap and much, much less stressful (for me) than driving/getting the bus. But I'm not sure that my identity is as a cycle commuter: it's part of what I am.

However, if I was forced to take a year off it, it would probably become a disproportionately large part.

Glad to hear you're back and enjoying it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 07 June, 2017, 01:15:21 pm
+1
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 07 June, 2017, 01:22:06 pm
Quote from: lahoski on 07 June, 2017, 10:31:05 am
Back on the bike this week after over a years worth of driving to work.

I already feel more like myself than I have for ages. Anyone else have a real emotional attachment to their identity as a cycle commuter?

Picked a good week though, rite?  ::-)

For me it is a significant part of what keeps me sane at work, when I can't bike commute I get grumpy or worse. Not sure how I will feel when I stop working, that time is getting quite close now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Torslanda on 07 June, 2017, 01:45:37 pm
Quote from: sg37409 on 07 June, 2017, 09:51:13 am
A couple of flooded patches this morning, a lot worse than I'd expected.  Guess the drains are clogged with leaves and stuff.


Mainly because the councils are too busy spending your council tax on lunch and expenses to do anything like maintain drains and gulleys...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 07 June, 2017, 10:37:51 pm
Quote from: Ham on 07 June, 2017, 11:22:48 am
Quote from: sg37409 on 07 June, 2017, 09:51:13 am
A couple of flooded patches this morning, a lot worse than I'd expected.  Guess the drains are clogged with leaves and stuff.


At one stage, stopped a traffic light on CS3 (Cycle Swimway 3) just through one of those, I turned to a fellow rider and said "What make is your bike?.."(cue a puzzled expression)".... mine's a Ford"  ;D

:-)
It wasn't just me who was affected: The trams couldn't get to the airport today.  This is after a day of draining the moat.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4272/35165105785_9f4205da85_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/VzqmPk)Trams got flooded (https://flic.kr/p/VzqmPk) by sg310 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/24775321@N02/), on Flickr
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 07 June, 2017, 11:12:59 pm
That puts my 3" in the bike lane into perspective.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 07 June, 2017, 11:22:07 pm
Don't be too hard on yourself, it was a chilly morning
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 07 June, 2017, 11:24:39 pm
I got strangulated by my magic hat today.

Engaging in a bit of off road exploration on the way to work when a low hanging branch snagged the helmet mounted light and nearly pulled me off the bike. Good job it was on a slow technical bit ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 08 June, 2017, 12:22:45 am
Quote from: Paul on 07 June, 2017, 01:05:26 pm
Quote from: lahoski on 07 June, 2017, 10:31:05 am
Anyone else have a real emotional attachment to their identity as a cycle commuter?
Cycle commuting is very important to me: it makes me feel good, keeps me well, is efficient, reliable, cheap and much, much less stressful (for me) than driving/getting the bus. But I'm not sure that my identity is as a cycle commuter: it's part of what I am.

However, if I was forced to take a year off it, it would probably become a disproportionately large part.

Glad to hear you're back and enjoying it.
Well, I'm back on the cyclo-commute tomorrow after an almost two year hiatus. Very excited.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 08 June, 2017, 09:50:04 am
Quote from: fuzzy (retd.) AAGE on 07 June, 2017, 11:24:39 pm
I got strangulated by my magic hat today.

Engaging in a bit of off road exploration on the way to work when a low hanging branch snagged the helmet mounted light and nearly pulled me off the bike. Good job it was on a slow technical bit ;D

That's a story for the people who tell me to wear a magic hat 'cos it's bound to be safer, innit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 08 June, 2017, 10:28:57 am
First commute for a very long time today.  As it's 100+ miles round trip its never that frequent but I've had very few days which have been simply 9 to 5 in the office this year.  Was late in last night as had an LEL St Ives control food planning meeting with PhilD, and forgot to pack a towel.  Then discovered that it is impossible to buy a towel in central London.  You can buy pretty much everything else except a towel.  So it seems that central London fails the Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy civilisation test.

Wore the rather nice corporate cycling jersey that I got for the charity event last week and realised that it made me a lot more aware of other road users and polite.  So I think I am going to wear it more often on commutes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 08 June, 2017, 10:29:39 am
Quote from: hatler on 08 June, 2017, 12:22:45 am
Well, I'm back on the cyclo-commute tomorrow after an almost two year hiatus. Very excited.
:thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 08 June, 2017, 02:11:25 pm
My commute today didn't involve a bike! I ran most of the way (4 of the 5.something km).

It ticks all of the below criteria:

Quote from: Paul on 07 June, 2017, 01:05:26 pm
it makes me feel good, keeps me well, is efficient, reliable, cheap and much, much less stressful (for me) than driving/getting the bus.

It's not as fast or as fun, but I do get a kick out of being completely self sufficient.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 08 June, 2017, 07:33:56 pm
Wet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 08 June, 2017, 07:54:46 pm
Well at least it was rideable today. Tuesday was just atrocious; not a day to be on a bike so I wasn't.   Relatively calm work-bound, but wind got up for the home-bound leg.  Last 5 miles were a bit of a slog, but at least the sun came out.  At last.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 08 June, 2017, 09:52:41 pm
Quote
She had a brief shout at him, at the cycle path's junction onto Cedars Road, and then significantly more screaming

TimO, that's the Howling Banshee of South London. I've never seen her but I've read about her on this thread on LFGSS. She's famous, she kicks off all the time with everyone.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 08 June, 2017, 09:53:19 pm
If it's her, might be a random shouty person.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 08 June, 2017, 09:55:28 pm
Headwinds all the way back, but the diesel engine got going and got home indecently early.  The Brimstone was obviously good for my legs.  New PB for commuting distance.  Ride even counted to my Eddington number.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 08 June, 2017, 10:02:09 pm
https://www.lfgss.com/conversations/145173/

Quote
I saw her again this morning, at the junction of Borough High St and Long Lane, where I do a right on a filter lane every morning. Some slightly hapless cars didn't make the filter quick enough and got kinda stuck in the box - it happens quite a bit there - and guess who happened to be at the front of the queue coming the other way when the lights went green. Mrs Screamy. She shot towards them, even though they were desperately shuffling forwards, howling "GET OUT OF THE WAY!" in the loudest, most bloodcurdling scream I have ever heard. So loud and horrendous, it sounded like someone being maimed and caused cars to jam their brakes on. Which made everything worse. I could clearly see her jugular trying to force its way out of her neck.

That was 8 years ago but last sighting was 10 months.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 08 June, 2017, 10:02:34 pm
Me, to a persistent RLJ, after a dodgy J, when alongside at a lights they couldn't J

"I can't make out - do you love your work so much you need to get there fast, or hate it so much you never want to get there?"

Cue staring straight ahead until he could go.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 09 June, 2017, 12:20:28 am
Quote from: Paul on 08 June, 2017, 10:29:39 am
Quote from: hatler on 08 June, 2017, 12:22:45 am
Well, I'm back on the cyclo-commute tomorrow after an almost two year hiatus. Very excited.
:thumbsup:
Wahey !
Back home and feeling well chuffed. Slightly further than the last commute but with a shed load more of stopping. The first notable encounter of the day was as I approached a truck in a queue approaching a pinch point, he just started moving, then popped his hand out of the window, signalled me and on stopped the truck so that I could get through ahead of him. Big cheery wave and shout of thanks from me and a smile from the driver.

Four hundred yards later and I followed a skip truck down to a notoriously battered low bridge. No way was he getting though but he realised in time. I popped the bike to one side and acted as banksman as he manoeuvred the truck back from whence it had come in a very tight spot.

Then onto CS7 and not one numpty driver all the way there and all the way home. More amazingly the levels of cycling numptiness were far lower than I was expecting, and nothing truly numptious whatsoever.

Good to be back on the bike. No, in fact, bloody brilliant to be back on the bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 09 June, 2017, 06:07:05 am
Quote from: hatler on 09 June, 2017, 12:20:28 am
Quote from: Paul on 08 June, 2017, 10:29:39 am
Quote from: hatler on 08 June, 2017, 12:22:45 am
Well, I'm back on the cyclo-commute tomorrow after an almost two year hiatus. Very excited.
:thumbsup:
Wahey !
Back home and feeling well chuffed. Slightly further than the last commute but with a shed load more of stopping. The first notable encounter of the day was as I approached a truck in a queue approaching a pinch point, he just started moving, then popped his hand out of the window, signalled me and on stopped the truck so that I could get through ahead of him. Big cheery wave and shout of thanks from me and a smile from the driver.

Four hundred yards later and I followed a skip truck down to a notoriously battered low bridge. No way was he getting though but he realised in time. I popped the bike to one side and acted as banksman as he manoeuvred the truck back from whence it had come in a very tight spot.

Then onto CS7 and not one numpty driver all the way there and all the way home. More amazingly the levels of cycling numptiness were far lower than I was expecting, and nothing truly numptious whatsoever.

Good to be back on the bike. No, in fact, bloody brilliant to be back on the bike.
:thumbsup: :thumbsup:

I'm guessing here that you were likely earlier than the get into %wherever by 08:30 - 09:00 which I try to avoid like the plague. given that you're crossing into the city, that seems likely.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 09 June, 2017, 08:32:54 am
Quote from: hatler on 09 June, 2017, 12:20:28 am
Quote from: Paul on 08 June, 2017, 10:29:39 am
Quote from: hatler on 08 June, 2017, 12:22:45 am
Well, I'm back on the cyclo-commute tomorrow after an almost two year hiatus. Very excited.
:thumbsup:
Wahey !
Back home and feeling well chuffed. Slightly further than the last commute but with a shed load more of stopping. The first notable encounter of the day was as I approached a truck in a queue approaching a pinch point, he just started moving, then popped his hand out of the window, signalled me and on stopped the truck so that I could get through ahead of him. Big cheery wave and shout of thanks from me and a smile from the driver.

Four hundred yards later and I followed a skip truck down to a notoriously battered low bridge. No way was he getting though but he realised in time. I popped the bike to one side and acted as banksman as he manoeuvred the truck back from whence it had come in a very tight spot.

Then onto CS7 and not one numpty driver all the way there and all the way home. More amazingly the levels of cycling numptiness were far lower than I was expecting, and nothing truly numptious whatsoever.

Good to be back on the bike. No, in fact, bloody brilliant to be back on the bike.

Great post  :thumbsup:

I actually had some pace today, which is odd for a Friday, the position on the new steed seems to be getting there, although it's ending up much more aggressive than I intended, mind you I suspect the wind has played a big part in both feeling sluggish all week and quickish today
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 09 June, 2017, 01:22:24 pm
Quote from: Ham on 09 June, 2017, 06:07:05 am
Quote from: hatler on 09 June, 2017, 12:20:28 am
Quote from: Paul on 08 June, 2017, 10:29:39 am
Quote from: hatler on 08 June, 2017, 12:22:45 am
Well, I'm back on the cyclo-commute tomorrow after an almost two year hiatus. Very excited.
:thumbsup:
Wahey !
Back home and feeling well chuffed. Slightly further than the last commute but with a shed load more of stopping. The first notable encounter of the day was as I approached a truck in a queue approaching a pinch point, he just started moving, then popped his hand out of the window, signalled me and on stopped the truck so that I could get through ahead of him. Big cheery wave and shout of thanks from me and a smile from the driver.

Four hundred yards later and I followed a skip truck down to a notoriously battered low bridge. No way was he getting though but he realised in time. I popped the bike to one side and acted as banksman as he manoeuvred the truck back from whence it had come in a very tight spot.

Then onto CS7 and not one numpty driver all the way there and all the way home. More amazingly the levels of cycling numptiness were far lower than I was expecting, and nothing truly numptious whatsoever.

Good to be back on the bike. No, in fact, bloody brilliant to be back on the bike.
:thumbsup: :thumbsup:

I'm guessing here that you were likely earlier than the get into %wherever by 08:30 - 09:00 which I try to avoid like the plague. given that you're crossing into the city, that seems likely.

Well, strange as it may seem, I arrived at the Cheapside destination at bang on 9am, and I'd missed the CS7 turn at Elephant & Castle so ended up going over London Bridge, the lead up to which was jammed solid, even for bikes.

Home time was 6.15 and it was a true delight to be swept along in a phalanx of bikes, but then they all seemed to dissolve at Clapham Common.

Elapsed time on the way in was about 57 minutes, which is a little quicker than I was expecting and if I hadn't got caught up at LB it might even have been sub 50. I'm not back in until Tuesday and I'll report back here.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 10 June, 2017, 08:24:25 am
Pretty chaotic passing murrayfield due to the Robbie Williams gig.  A real sense of excitement and drunks ! :-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 12 June, 2017, 09:13:17 am
My first for a while do to being out of the office.

That was sloooooow. This was due to a combination of traffic (had to stop, queue, and wait at all four right turns), traffic lights, and the excess ballast round my middle.  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 12 June, 2017, 09:52:51 am
After climbing Mont Ventoux 4 times in 3 days, today's commute was a VERY hard flat route. Still better than the tube though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 13 June, 2017, 09:09:20 pm
I'd like to thank London's driving community for the arranging several tests of the braking system on my bicycle today. I know it's certainly not enough to assume a single emergency stop is sufficient and it's more thorough to do so several times. Thanks.

Oh and a shout out to the final chap on his moped, hot from nearly colliding with a car, turned left left in front of me, turning to shout what I presume wasn't a stream of compliments (I suspect they were aimed at the driver, I don't think the mopedist had bothered to become aware of my existence). Two things about delivering invective. Firstly, if you're wearing a helmet all people can hear of your final crafted insults is 'mmmMMmm MMmmm M--Mmmm'. Secondly, if you're hurling them at the person behind, you're not looking where you are going.

The second point is, I believe, directly responsible for him accelerating into the back of a van with enough force to emit a Higgs boson.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 13 June, 2017, 09:56:12 pm
 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 13 June, 2017, 10:41:56 pm
Quote from: ian on 13 June, 2017, 09:09:20 pm
The second point is, I believe, directly responsible for him accelerating into the back of a van with enough force to emit a Higgs boson.
Very satisfying. Hope he wasn't too hurt to make use of the lesson.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 14 June, 2017, 04:08:38 pm
Been managing mixed-mode commutes this week - train & bike.  Been the folder for a couple of days, but I am on the fixed today, as I travelled in outside the peak hours.  Not sure if I'll get a space going home...

Love it!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 16 June, 2017, 08:57:08 pm
Well, this might sound slightly odd, but I'm chuffed to report that today I was suffering from Friday legs.

After a bit over a week of cyclo-commuting into central London my take on proceedings is : -
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 17 June, 2017, 08:34:55 am
Less a single commute event, more a trend.  There has been a _marked_ increase in wide and safe passing over the last few months and interestingly it *seems* to date from not long after the West Mids. Police scheme started.  Now this is odd because :

- GlosPol have only just started their version of the West Mids. scheme and, quite reasonably, that's only being run in urban(ish) areas.

- My commute is better than 95% rural and I'm *usually* the only bod on the road at commute time so it's not as if the drivers are likely to think I'm either GlosPol or wearing a camera.

I did wonder if there had been reports on the mainstream news and that has sort of seeped into the collective conscious.  Dunno.  Whatever it's a nice puzzle to have.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 17 June, 2017, 02:18:10 pm
Previous commute: pretty short. Down a dead-straight road going from a 40 limit to a 60, both of which are widely ignored. End up having to turn right to a ped access point  using a filter lane I have previously had to dive out of as one oncoming moton decided to overtake another while totally ignoring my presence.

Round an office block road net and onto the main airport approach road, with a mixture of utterly twatbastard bus drivers, Addison Lee cabs in a hurry and similar private cars, spiced with large numbers of people who either
(a) use the chevrons dividing the short-term car-park slip road from the other lanes as a parking/waiting area. It's safe: they've got their hazard lights on. Or:
(b) having driven into said slip road, ignore the huge signs saying "no reversing; take ticket and proceed through at no cost" and exhibit a variety of behaviours ranging from reversing into oncoming traffic (ISTGTHO) to doing a U-turn and driving at high speed the wrong way

Followed by passing through the bus station, which is frequented by peds who appear to have no concept of the words "road" or "traffic"

Push bike through concourse and more peds, with luggage and zero observational skills.

New commute: three times the distance. 100 yards or less down busy road, and turn right. Back streets with minimal traffic, one right turn onto busy road followed 100 yds later by left turn off it and more back streets. Followed by off-road cycle path through trees and past lake, with birdsong, geese with goslings, bunnies and general nice things. No need to go through concourse.

I think I am ahead here.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 17 June, 2017, 02:52:02 pm
Never underestimate geese...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SoreTween on 19 June, 2017, 11:17:05 am
Old: Balcombe Road & Schlumberger? Serious kudos for surviving and escaping that approach  :o
New: Riverside Garden Park to finish, crossed busy road probably valley of the guest house Massetts Road, start point fairly handy for a kebab?

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 19 June, 2017, 11:25:14 am
That was warm!  I had 'sunscreen stingy eyes' when I reached work ...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 19 June, 2017, 11:26:10 am
Rode my Moulton for the first time since breaking my hip socket while riding it in Thailand last August. I'd forgotten how comfortable Moultons are on British roads and also how stand-up sprints don't really work in the same manner as on my fixed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 20 June, 2017, 10:48:15 am
Rode the Moulton again today (after some running-in tweaks), leaving noticeably later, which improved traffic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RichL on 20 June, 2017, 11:47:32 am
One-off commute through the lanes from Stroud to Cam & Dursley station. Gorgeous morning. I caught up with one of the regulars so at least I knew I was on time for the train, but was taunted as a fair-weather cyclist... guilty as charged these days.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 21 June, 2017, 09:25:41 am
Cool and overcast. Pleasant riding weather though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 22 June, 2017, 11:16:02 am
More pleasant riding past the huge queues for the royal highland show.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jakob W on 22 June, 2017, 11:31:12 am
A lot cooler than yesterday but still pretty muggy, and some blustery wind. Not particularly looking forward to the 15+mph winds forecast for tomorrow either...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 26 June, 2017, 11:36:58 am
Quote from: Steph on 17 June, 2017, 02:18:10 pm
Previous commute: pretty short. Down a dead-straight road going from a 40 limit to a 60, both of which are widely ignored. End up having to turn right to a ped access point  using a filter lane I have previously had to dive out of as one oncoming moton decided to overtake another while totally ignoring my presence.

Round an office block road net and onto the main airport approach road, with a mixture of utterly twatbastard bus drivers, Addison Lee cabs in a hurry and similar private cars, spiced with large numbers of people who either
(a) use the chevrons dividing the short-term car-park slip road from the other lanes as a parking/waiting area. It's safe: they've got their hazard lights on. Or:
(b) having driven into said slip road, ignore the huge signs saying "no reversing; take ticket and proceed through at no cost" and exhibit a variety of behaviours ranging from reversing into oncoming traffic (ISTGTHO) to doing a U-turn and driving at high speed the wrong way

Followed by passing through the bus station, which is frequented by peds who appear to have no concept of the words "road" or "traffic"

Push bike through concourse and more peds, with luggage and zero observational skills.

New commute: three times the distance. 100 yards or less down busy road, and turn right. Back streets with minimal traffic, one right turn onto busy road followed 100 yds later by left turn off it and more back streets. Followed by off-road cycle path through trees and past lake, with birdsong, geese with goslings, bunnies and general nice things. No need to go through concourse.

I think I am ahead here.

Ahead? It sounds like you have come up smelling of roses :thumbsup:

I completed my last Monday morning ride to work today by leaving early and taking a new to work route. It was bliss.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 28 June, 2017, 07:38:03 am
Yesterday a BMW Big pulled slowly into the ASL alongside me way after the light had gone red.

I tapped ever so politely on the window and mouthed "Can I have a quick chat ?" with a big smile on my face.

I explained that what she had just done would incur the wrath of the local plod as it was the equivalent of jumping a red light, and that the reason for the box is to allow cyclists wobble room to set off. This was all received, not well, but it appeared to be listened to. She countered with "So, not wearing a helmet then ?"

"What has that got to do with anything ?" I asked incredulously.

FFS
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 28 June, 2017, 09:32:45 am
The Morning After the Night Before, on a summer morning, my favourite.

I assume most left their bikes at work yesterday evening, maybe I left early but I didn't think it was that bad last night
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 28 June, 2017, 05:23:03 pm
Quote from: hatler on 28 June, 2017, 07:38:03 am
... as it was the equivalent of jumping a red light ...

It's not the equivalent of jumping a red light, it is jumping a red light.  If the light is red, and you cross the first stop line, in a motor vehicle, you've gone through a red light.  Likewise for the second stop line, if you're using a pedal vehicle.  Unfortunately, both lines are frequently crossed by both classes of vehicle, illegally.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 29 June, 2017, 08:08:09 am
Back in the game  :thumbsup:

Slow, sore and a bit nervous on the greasy roads, can't afford another off at the mo since the bone is still knitting. It's good to be back though despite the Mancunian weather
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 29 June, 2017, 09:15:54 am
Quote from: hatler on 28 June, 2017, 07:38:03 am
Yesterday a BMW Big pulled slowly into the ASL alongside me way after the light had gone red.

I tapped ever so politely on the window and mouthed "Can I have a quick chat ?" with a big smile on my face.

I explained that what she had just done would incur the wrath of the local plod as it was the equivalent of jumping a red light, and that the reason for the box is to allow cyclists wobble room to set off. This was all received, not well, but it appeared to be listened to. She countered with "So, not wearing a helmet then ?"

"What has that got to do with anything ?" I asked incredulously.

FFS


THAT is quite incredible isn't it? I can't believe her response!! What is wrong with people. Why couldn't she simply acknowledge a mistake, hold her hand up, perhaps say "Sorry", and that's an end of it. But it indicates, that whatever you're likely to say to this woman, once she's in her car, anything she does within the context of driving can not be impugned. She feels violated by having her driving questioned, and feels justified to counter, with what she thinks/assumes, with a Cycle Rule or Law. What a moron, but one in charge of a potentially dangerous vehicle.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 29 June, 2017, 09:42:14 am
Once I was waiting in the ASL at the lights somewhere in the Democratic People's Republic of Peckham and a BMW squeezes into next me (literally squeezes). I point out the stop line is somewhere behind her car. Well, you go through red lights she counters.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 29 June, 2017, 02:43:08 pm
(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/cycling/small.php?size=400&file=Commute20170628_PottersLane.jpg)

The access control barriers have been permanently removed from both ends of the Potter's Lane underpass (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.4223296,-0.1357536,3a,75y,311.85h,66.61t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1s1SUYoB-qpTvZEoKSPsS1pA!2e0!7i13312!8i6656), onto Estreham Road ! :o ;D

They've also removed a lot of the planting, and made it a clearer and more visible route.

The cycle routes around there are slowly being made pleasanter, although for some odd reason, they also removed a small section of  Kerb on Ellison Road (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.4181961,-0.1346985,3a,75y,32.83h,66.78t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sXFR4WfKqDXxv3H7QfkQJDg!2e0!7i13312!8i6656), which makes it far easier for cars to be parked in a fuckwitted manner, partially or completely blocking the cycle lane. >:(

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/cycling/small.php?size=200&file=Commute20170628_Front_EstrehamGreyhoundEllison.jpg) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/cycling/Commute20170628_Front_EstrehamGreyhoundEllison.jpg)  (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/cycling/small.php?size=200&file=Commute20170628_Rear_EstrehamGreyhoundEllison.jpg) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/cycling/Commute20170628_Rear_EstrehamGreyhoundEllison.jpg)

(That car is actually parked in front of the lowered kerb to the back of the pub, and further on it's Loading Only, both of which are regularly ignored and unenforced).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 29 June, 2017, 07:48:26 pm
A toss up between this thread and "motorised moron".  Homebound; travelling at about 17/18mph a few yards out from a blind corner that drops into a dip when some clot in a (not)MINI decides that's a really good place to overtake.  The oncoming driver wasn't impressed, but I'm pleased, for the sake of the oncoming driver, to report that his brakes work _really_ well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 29 June, 2017, 08:04:40 pm
Quote from: ian on 29 June, 2017, 09:42:14 am
Once I was waiting in the ASL at the lights somewhere in the Democratic People's Republic of Peckham and a BMW squeezes into next me (literally squeezes). I point out the stop line is somewhere behind her car. Well, you go through red lights she counters.
The mere act of driving a large BMW appears to wipe all logic circuits from the driver's brain. That is priceless. Did you have a chance to respond ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 29 June, 2017, 08:11:20 pm
Four weeks in to my new commute and in addition to the two collisions twixt car and bike I've witnessed so far (one all on the blame front), I saw a motionless scooter rider lying in the road, his mashed up scooter and a stationary truck on Colliers Wood High Street this morning. Police in attendance (but no ambulance) and a few shocked people standing around, so I didn't miss it by much. In eleven years of commuting the same distance out of London I didn't witness a single incident.

And here's something to ponder on. There are some catastrophically poor examples of cycling and driving on display every single run. Does the panel think that it is the same drivers cyclists who have no clue and end up having an accident, or is what I witness simply a driver/cyclist losing their brain very briefly, and that this sort of thing happens to all of us ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 29 June, 2017, 09:55:03 pm
It doesn't happen to all, but as we "know" the average driver is pretty shit. Why then is it a surprise that the average cyclist is pretty shit?

Add to that the density of inner London - cars and bikes - and that's what you see. Whether driving or cycling, you can normally influence your chance of being involved in any incident if you so choose.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 30 June, 2017, 09:37:55 am
Drove in today. My last day as a school caretaker so I have lots of stuff to ferry home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 30 June, 2017, 09:51:54 am
Quote from: fuzzy (retd.) AAGE on 30 June, 2017, 09:37:55 am
Drove in today. My last day as a school caretaker so I have lots of stuff to ferry home.

So from next week you will be cycle commuting to a location where any bike maintenance requirements will be easy to address?

 :thumbsup: Fuzzy the purveyor and wrangler of bikes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 30 June, 2017, 11:03:00 am
Quote from: fuzzy (retd.) AAGE on 30 June, 2017, 09:37:55 am
Drove in today. My last day as a school caretaker so I have lots of stuff to ferry home.
Ooooo. I missed this. What are you up to next ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 30 June, 2017, 12:54:21 pm
Quote from: Ham on 29 June, 2017, 09:55:03 pm
It doesn't happen to all, but as we "know" the average driver is pretty shit. Why then is it a surprise that the average cyclist is pretty shit? ...

Basically, people are idiots, which is a fairly safe rule of thumb for life, but applies even more when cycling around.  I guess it's simply more of a worry with cars, that can cause a dramatic amount of damage, but cyclists and pedestrians also fairly regularly cause issues on my commute.

The main reason I avoid "peak times" on my commute, are the amount of morons cycling along Queenstown Road (and Cedars Road, and Clapham Common).  For those who aren't familiar with this part of London, because the bridges across the Thames are pinch points, some roads also become very busy with all forms of traffic.  Queenstown Road is actually pretty good from the point-of-view of motor vehicles posing a threat to cyclists in the morning commute, because the motor vehicles are often stationary, caught up in traffic, and there's a wide bus lane.  At peak times, especially on sunny summer days, some other cyclists become a significant threat.  I generally just let them all get ahead of me, and then carefully overtake the few very slow cyclists, letting the cyclist "boy racer equivalents" stay in front, where I can see them, and avoid any fuckwittedness.  It's rarely worth the effort of getting past dangerous and poor cyclists, to gain a few minutes at most, on my one hour commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fuzzy on 30 June, 2017, 01:04:08 pm
Quote from: hatler on 30 June, 2017, 11:03:00 am
Quote from: fuzzy (retd.) AAGE on 30 June, 2017, 09:37:55 am
Drove in today. My last day as a school caretaker so I have lots of stuff to ferry home.
Ooooo. I missed this. What are you up to next ?

Tomorrow I start as a full time bike sales and minor repair droid at the LBS I currently work part time at.

The commute is a 2 minute walk!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 30 June, 2017, 01:17:28 pm
Quote from: TimO on 30 June, 2017, 12:54:21 pm
Quote from: Ham on 29 June, 2017, 09:55:03 pm
It doesn't happen to all, but as we "know" the average driver is pretty shit. Why then is it a surprise that the average cyclist is pretty shit? ...

Basically, people are idiots, which is a fairly safe rule of thumb for life, but applies even more when cycling around.  I guess it's simply more of a worry with cars, that can cause a dramatic amount of damage, but cyclists and pedestrians also fairly regularly cause issues on my commute.

The main reason I avoid "peak times" on my commute, are the amount of morons cycling along Queenstown Road (and Cedars Road, and Clapham Common).  For those who aren't familiar with this part of London, because the bridges across the Thames are pinch points, some roads also become very busy with all forms of traffic.  Queenstown Road is actually pretty good from the point-of-view of motor vehicles posing a threat to cyclists in the morning commute, because the motor vehicles are often stationary, caught up in traffic, and there's a wide bus lane.  At peak times, especially on sunny summer days, some other cyclists become a significant threat.  I generally just let them all get ahead of me, and then carefully overtake the few very slow cyclists, letting the cyclist "boy racer equivalents" stay in front, where I can see them, and avoid any fuckwittedness.  It's rarely worth the effort of getting past dangerous and poor cyclists, to gain a few minutes at most, on my one hour commute.

You and me both. I also have a tendency to "protect" slower cyclists where it is clear that there should be no overtaking, blocking the way until it is safe to go. Mostly works, although on one occasion this week it almost ended in tears. CS2, CS3 can get decidedly unpleasant coming home (I'm normally early coming in), I've worked out alternatives that keep me away for the most part.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 30 June, 2017, 01:23:42 pm
If I was new to this and didn't know it gets easier I'd pack it up based on this morning's performance. No power, no energy, in fact I'm so sodding tired that I'm struggling to function.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 30 June, 2017, 02:15:19 pm
Quote from: Ham on 29 June, 2017, 09:55:03 pm
It doesn't happen to all, but as we "know" the average driver is pretty shit. Why then is it a surprise that the average cyclist is pretty shit?

I don't think I agree.

Quote from: Ham on 29 June, 2017, 09:55:03 pm
Add to that the density of inner London - cars and bikes - and that's what you see. Whether driving or cycling, you can normally influence your chance of being involved in any incident if you so choose.

I think I agree.

I found cycle commuting much harder when I worked in Brum city centre. It was easier when I worked in Nottm city centre and easier still in Derby. I think it's possible that traffic density affects road users.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 30 June, 2017, 03:53:58 pm
Hmm, the Potter's Lane barriers where half broken the other day (one side had sheared off and they'd been bent round), which was puzzling. Seems they were half way through removing them. I didn't mind them to be honest, I wouldn't want to meet cyclist coming at full pelt through the underpass.

Cyclists are pretty awful, but usually they can't do much harm than annoy me. There's probably not more accidents since it requires conjoined stupidity, and probability tends to suggest that while both parties may be idiots, they're less likely to be idiots at the same time.

I occasionally make the mistake of cycling CS7 during peak times and it's the speedy boys who are the worst. What's with the close pass thing? I can't imagine they like it when it happens to them. And if you berate them, they do the 'I gave you loads of room' thing. Oddly familiar. Chaps (and it always bloody is), I don't want to race you, and it's pretty intimidating especially for new or less confident cyclists.

Those and the slow cyclists who, at each traffic light, position themselves at the front (it seems to be a mix, from Boris Bikers through to the lycra boys who then spend 30 seconds wobbling in the way while trying to clip in). I'm less bothered by the red light jumpers (of which there does seem to fewer) but as for the ones who think the green man on a pedestrian crossing is the best time to thread between pedestrians, I hope you fall face first into an epic pile of dog-do. With your mouth open in surprise.

Oh and the cyclists who take those risks that make you wince.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 30 June, 2017, 04:24:42 pm
Quote from: ian on 30 June, 2017, 03:53:58 pm
What's with the close pass thing?

My mate reckons it's a 'must get close to things' club rider thing. I'm not sure agree or disagree. IME a lot of those that do it are club riders, I reckon a factor of that is that they are used to riding in close proximity and have forgotten that not everyone is comfortable with those distances. Mind you the guy trying to take up residence in my pannier this morning was of the hipster variety.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 30 June, 2017, 04:26:26 pm
Quote from: Paul on 30 June, 2017, 02:15:19 pm
Quote from: Ham on 29 June, 2017, 09:55:03 pm
It doesn't happen to all, but as we "know" the average driver is pretty shit. Why then is it a surprise that the average cyclist is pretty shit?

I don't think I agree.


That drivers and cyclists are cut from the same cloth? or that most are a bit shit?

Trouble is, we live in an echo chamber here, which reinforces our cyclist-centric view of the world. Attacking bad driving is fair game, but suggesting that cycling is not all it might be gets a twitch response.

Most drivers are a bit shit. Let me substantiate that, or at least phrase that differently. Most drivers would be able to improve the quality of their driving by a quantum leap by applying so-called advanced driving techniques. "So-Called" because actually there's nothing advanced about it to the extent that it makes you a superior driver, a quality given to a Select Few. Instead, it is a set of approaches and methods that anyone can do.

I don't know whether you know what I am talking about or not, if you do, you can only agree. If you don't - well, then there's a bit of QED.

The methods are all about control and anticipation, which when properly applied make it much less likely you will be involved in an accident, no matter whose fault.

Then, there's the question of how alike cyclists are to drivers. I'd agree that there is a tendency for Cyclists to be and become more aware of their environment but that's where it ends. Note that I used a capital C, that's a small subsection of those that use bikes, get over it.

So what you have is all those people cycling in the same way they do everything else, without much in the way of forethought and planning. And yes it is a small minority of the overall cycling populace because I see how infrequently people change their speed moving into more risky areas, how they ride through crowded areas without covering brakes, I could carry on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 01 July, 2017, 02:08:34 pm
Quote from: ian on 30 June, 2017, 03:53:58 pm
Hmm, the Potter's Lane barriers where half broken the other day (one side had sheared off and they'd been bent round), which was puzzling. Seems they were half way through removing them. I didn't mind them to be honest, I wouldn't want to meet cyclist coming at full pelt through the underpass. ...

The barrier has been broken for a few weeks, I suspect it had simply failed at the base due to age.  I think it had been pushed upright straight again, so it looked OK, but wasn't actually physically secure.  That may be what instigated removing them, rather than replacement.

You could meet cyclists after the barrier on the blind corner, already doing a fair speed, so I don't think the barriers themselves were a panacea for excessive speed.  There are plenty of other occasions around that area, where there are no barriers, and plenty of bad cycling.  Whilst the barrier probably did slow down a few, I think it was also another, albeit minor, discouragement to using that route, and was better removed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 03 July, 2017, 08:57:17 pm
I'd be mostly concerned that there's a dip under the tracks which encourages a fair bit of speed. The underpass is a typically grim and narrow affair that we Brits are so especially good at. The barriers you could thread around. I'm not especially a fan of barriers in general though. In my experience, once I get excited they've disappeared, they re-appear a month or two later.

I come that way (LCN 5) fairly often to mix it up with the A23 thrills and there's been some general improvements but a good degree of typical half-heartedness. Of course, it all gives up on the Croydon border. They should just put up a sign that says 'Cyclists! Abandon all hope ye who enter here' and be done with it. Handily a couple of such signs strategically placed will also use up the borough's cycling budget, and leave the council to focus on import things like adding more parking bays and randomly wide sections of pavement (there's a new fabby example at the end of Surrey St, an acre of pavement for presumable drunks from the pubs opposite to fall over on).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: seraphina on 04 July, 2017, 09:30:25 am
First bicycle commute in ages. Lovely morning but it's obviously prime hatching time for some of the local wildlife - lots of extra protein  :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 04 July, 2017, 11:49:44 am
Quote from: ian on 03 July, 2017, 08:57:17 pm
I'd be mostly concerned that there's a dip under the tracks which encourages a fair bit of speed. The underpass is a typically grim and narrow affair that we Brits are so especially good at. ...

It looks like they're attempting to move the north-western end of the path a bit further away from the underpass proper, presumably to give a better view, and a wider path overall.  I'll retain judgement on that, until I see what they do.

The underpass isn't the worst I've seen or used, it's relatively well ventilated, and together with the frequent washing due to flooding, it rarely smells of piss. :D

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/cycling/small.php?size=250&file=Commute20170703_WayHome_1.jpg) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/cycling/Commute20170703_WayHome_1.jpg) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/cycling/small.php?size=250&file=Commute20170703_WayHome_2.jpg) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/cycling/Commute20170703_WayHome_2.jpg)

Quote from: ian on 03 July, 2017, 08:57:17 pm
I come that way (LCN 5) fairly often to mix it up with the A23 thrills and there's been some general improvements but a good degree of typical half-heartedness.

I generally use that route, the A23 going southbound from Tooting Bec Common has a couple of exceptionally dangerous junctions, here (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.4291838,-0.1316722,3a,75y,123.68h,71.77t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sK7DkPr39j0AYu7JNx_fKlQ!2e0!7i13312!8i6656) and here (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.4234507,-0.1297571,3a,75y,165.5h,79.58t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1soGIvHlDITMP5W1LS_d6V-w!2e0!7i13312!8i6656), where in both cases you have to be in the middle lane, which is rarely a nice place to be on a bicycle.  I've had too many close calls at both junctions, to consider either particularly pleasant.  The cycle route through the back roads is far from perfect, and is slower and further, but it's definitely far safer, even with a few nasty dangerous points itself.  They are trying to make things better, generally with a lot more thought than is often taken, and I hope the road narrowing / one way bit they've put in by the station is retained, as it does generally make that section of road more bearable.

Quote from: ian on 03 July, 2017, 08:57:17 pm
Of course, it all gives up on the Croydon border. They should just put up a sign that says 'Cyclists! Abandon all hope ye who enter here' and be done with it. ...

Indeed, although I can't avoid that bit, since I live there !  I do have the choice of cycling in along London Road, and dodging the Private Hire Vehicles and those intent on finding a parking space 6 inches from the take-away they're visiting, or the Thornton Road-Purley Way A23, with the incredibly dangerous Lombard Roundabout (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.3856756,-0.1209422,3a,75y,185.62h,81.8t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sP7dRv6A8-UGtdNTmTcGKqg!2e0!7i13312!8i6656) and Ikea Junction (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.3795066,-0.1207594,3a,75y,208.3h,95.05t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1siWY0yQXZg5RMUa8Ad5NEHw!2e0!7i13312!8i6656), which I'll only occasionally use.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 04 July, 2017, 12:07:53 pm
Bit of a draggy headwind that's forecast to turn and be a bit of a draggy headwind  ::-) Left leg is mildly protesting but speeds are going in the right direction
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 04 July, 2017, 05:58:46 pm
Quote from: TimO on 04 July, 2017, 11:49:44 am
Quote from: ian on 03 July, 2017, 08:57:17 pm
I'd be mostly concerned that there's a dip under the tracks which encourages a fair bit of speed. The underpass is a typically grim and narrow affair that we Brits are so especially good at. ...

It looks like they're attempting to move the north-western end of the path a bit further away from the underpass proper, presumably to give a better view, and a wider path overall.  I'll retain judgement on that, until I see what they do.

The underpass isn't the worst I've seen or used, it's relatively well ventilated, and together with the frequent washing due to flooding, it rarely smells of piss. :D

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/cycling/small.php?size=250&file=Commute20170703_WayHome_1.jpg) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/cycling/Commute20170703_WayHome_1.jpg) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/cycling/small.php?size=250&file=Commute20170703_WayHome_2.jpg) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/cycling/Commute20170703_WayHome_2.jpg)

Quote from: ian on 03 July, 2017, 08:57:17 pm
I come that way (LCN 5) fairly often to mix it up with the A23 thrills and there's been some general improvements but a good degree of typical half-heartedness.

I generally use that route, the A23 going southbound from Tooting Bec Common has a couple of exceptionally dangerous junctions, here (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.4291838,-0.1316722,3a,75y,123.68h,71.77t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sK7DkPr39j0AYu7JNx_fKlQ!2e0!7i13312!8i6656) and here (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.4234507,-0.1297571,3a,75y,165.5h,79.58t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1soGIvHlDITMP5W1LS_d6V-w!2e0!7i13312!8i6656), where in both cases you have to be in the middle lane, which is rarely a nice place to be on a bicycle.  I've had too many close calls at both junctions, to consider either particularly pleasant.  The cycle route through the back roads is far from perfect, and is slower and further, but it's definitely far safer, even with a few nasty dangerous points itself.  They are trying to make things better, generally with a lot more thought than is often taken, and I hope the road narrowing / one way bit they've put in by the station is retained, as it does generally make that section of road more bearable.

Quote from: ian on 03 July, 2017, 08:57:17 pm
Of course, it all gives up on the Croydon border. They should just put up a sign that says 'Cyclists! Abandon all hope ye who enter here' and be done with it. ...

Indeed, although I can't avoid that bit, since I live there !  I do have the choice of cycling in along London Road, and dodging the Private Hire Vehicles and those intent on finding a parking space 6 inches from the take-away they're visiting, or the Thornton Road-Purley Way A23, with the incredibly dangerous Lombard Roundabout (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.3856756,-0.1209422,3a,75y,185.62h,81.8t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sP7dRv6A8-UGtdNTmTcGKqg!2e0!7i13312!8i6656) and Ikea Junction (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.3795066,-0.1207594,3a,75y,208.3h,95.05t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1siWY0yQXZg5RMUa8Ad5NEHw!2e0!7i13312!8i6656), which I'll only occasionally use.

Ah, I did notice they were widening the approach, which is uncommonly sensible. Though I wouldn't be surprised if barriers reappear at some point. Good sense like that typically has a short half-life.

I often take the A23 up through Brixton, though that involves a junction even worse that Streatham Common. This (https://goo.gl/maps/WYyZXDnPnXQ2) muthafuckin' sphincter tightener. It battles with my good sense and the fact that the A23 is the quickest way to get home. I have simply assumed that whoever designed those junctions was having a laugh and has probably graduated onto more hands-on serial killing.

I get all the pleasures of Croydon as I have to cross the entire benighted borough and come out of the other side. I like to say the drivers of Surrey are better, but they're generally so surprised to see a bicycle that they can't think for a good 10 minutes and then they get angry and write to the paper. Because, well, because, that's why. Something. Must. Be. Done.

As a plus, I get to ignore some MOD signs to cycle down a runway and pretend to be an aeroplane.

That said, the cacophonous symphony of peculiar creaks that my bicycle is emitting at the moment is worse that an ex-Aeroflot Tupolev with a lot of miles on the clock and duct tape as a significant structural feature, so I wouldn't fly in it. It's probably time to face the enormity of a new commuting bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 04 July, 2017, 06:11:57 pm
Quote from: ian on 04 July, 2017, 05:58:46 pm
... I often take the A23 up through Brixton, though that involves a junction even worse that Streatham Common. This (https://goo.gl/maps/WYyZXDnPnXQ2) muthafuckin' sphincter tightener. It battles with my good sense and the fact that the A23 is the quickest way to get home. I have simply assumed that whoever designed those junctions was having a laugh and has probably graduated onto more hands-on serial killing. ...

I've never used that on a commute, I start somewhat further west, but I do use it when a ride such as an FNRttC, results in me returning to That London via London Bridge Station.  Cycling through there, on a Saturday morning is also "interesting", and there's no sensible alternative, other than following the A3 to Clapham Common and then using my commuting route, which is quite a bit further.

I was quite impressed that they actually managed to change the previous junction, which was hardly cyclist friendly, into one which is significantly more butt clenching. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 04 July, 2017, 06:27:09 pm
The problem with the Brixton junction is that no matter how you position yourself, you will get cut up on either side, sometimes both for added fun. The outer lane brings cars up your inside, the middle lane gets you left-hooked as drivers overtake and cut across for Effra Road. At least with Streatham Common you can mostly block the lane and soak up some random abuse from drivers who are being delayed by entire seconds in the quest to reach the lights half-way across the Common.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 04 July, 2017, 06:42:36 pm
Reminds me of my ex-commute where it used to cross 6 lanes of the A13 just south of Burdett Road, with traffic cutting left and right in front of me - irrespective of where I was positioned.
https://goo.gl/maps/v6k5degxbfF2
Followed by crossing 4 lanes of fast moving traffic in order to get myself positioned at the lights to get into Westferry Road
https://goo.gl/maps/JfSoXiuGfRy
It got to the point where every night, I was leaving work, thinking, is tonight going to be the night........?
It was doing my head in.
Thankfully, Adamski (OTP) came up with a much safer alternative, which I now use on a regular basis. :thumbsup:

ETA: The only way to negotiate this junction in (relative) safety on a bike, is to (illegally) go with the green dedicated to the bus lane. In this instance traffic planners / coordinators suck, and are not doing their job.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DuncanM on 06 July, 2017, 08:10:52 am
Not sure if this belongs here or in the motorised moron post.
Yesterday, commuting to work, I joined the back of a queue waiting for the lights to go over Culham bridge (single carriageway, so lights at each end). Newish white Merc C class coupe behind me. I rode through with the traffic at 20mph or so, taking the lane as normal, and then when I got to the other side I eased up a little as there is a T junction and the traffic just bunches up there anyway. The Merc overtook me very close (certainly within touching distance) due to cars coming the other way. I shouted, made the universal "move over you idiot" arm movement, and then pointed at the queue of traffic we were about to join and gave him the thumbs up. He brake tested me! :o Stamped on the anchors, stopped dead, maybe 15m from where the traffic would have forced him to stop. I cruised past on the outside (he gave me an impressive glare), and then past the couple of vans in front of him before stopping (I was turning right) in a gap in the queue.

I guess he turned left, because he didn't pass me again thankfully, though I was mildly concerned about how he would behave if he came up behind me after that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 06 July, 2017, 08:18:47 am
Note to self: Check the weather forecast before bringing the bike without guards  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 06 July, 2017, 11:49:44 am
Me: shorts check (actually they are checked shorts) T-Shirt check. That's done. Let's pootle off!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 06 July, 2017, 02:48:38 pm
Quote from: ian on 04 July, 2017, 05:58:46 pm
... Though I wouldn't be surprised if barriers reappear at some point. Good sense like that typically has a short half-life. ...

On yesterday's evening commute (I only travel this way, on the way home).

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/cycling/small.php?size=400&file=Commute201700706_PottersLaneNewBarrier.jpg) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/cycling/Commute201700706_PottersLaneNewBarrier.jpg)

... and Ian wins An Internet, for predicting that.

Oh well, we had a week of barrier free use. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 06 July, 2017, 05:55:53 pm
I'm meltinnnnnnnnnnnng! 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 06 July, 2017, 08:01:39 pm
Quote from: TimO on 06 July, 2017, 02:48:38 pm
Quote from: ian on 04 July, 2017, 05:58:46 pm
... Though I wouldn't be surprised if barriers reappear at some point. Good sense like that typically has a short half-life. ...

On yesterday's evening commute (I only travel this way, on the way home).

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/cycling/small.php?size=400&file=Commute201700706_PottersLaneNewBarrier.jpg) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/cycling/Commute201700706_PottersLaneNewBarrier.jpg)

... and Ian wins An Internet, for predicting that.

Oh well, we had a week of barrier free use. :(

You beat me through it, I just cycled through there earlier this evening and thought 'ahoy, barriers have sprouted!'

Hopefully they'll keep the widened other side barrier free. Though I wouldn't bet on it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 06 July, 2017, 09:19:03 pm
Southwark Bridge has had swivel-eyed lunatic Terrorist barriers installed at the start and end of the cycle lanes on each side, plus they have blocked off with rather rough lumps of concrete the lowered sections of the barrier between the cycle lane and the road (which I presume were there to allow pedestrians to cross more easily).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 06 July, 2017, 09:40:45 pm
I for one am thankful there's nowhere else in London where there are crowds of people yet are completely open to vehicles.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 06 July, 2017, 09:42:25 pm
I suspect it's the added attractiveness of having people jump in the river to evade said swivel-eyed lunatics which make bridges such a honeypot.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 06 July, 2017, 09:51:48 pm
Today I reached for the trusty steed only to find the rear wheel flat. None of the decent alternatives in the fleet were available for one reason or the other, so I reached for the "beater". In itsellf not a bad bike ( as in https://www.gumtree.com/p/bicycles/ridgeback-tempest/1182093894) but it is decidedly the lowest quality bike I've commuted on for years. I was interested to see what it would be like.

Clearly it got me there and back, but I was actually surprised how much difference there was - although ultimately it does the same job. Missed the SPDs obv, that and tyres could be easily fixed were I so minded, but the lack of precise brakes I found most disconcerting, along with the decidedly more unhelpful handling with two heavy panniers. Grounding a pedal on bend was also a surprise, but that could have been down to having flats vs spd.

All in all, I'm pleased I can afford better, but it was in no way slumming it. It appears, a bike is a bike is a bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 06 July, 2017, 10:10:04 pm
Reminds me, I was on the Brompton today because I got the train in (too hot!). Pootled back from the mothership past the battlegrounds and St Reatham and Baal(ham), Snorbury, through the Benighted Borough, past the vampire kingdom of Purley (more vampires per capita than Transylvania, demography fans) to the foot of the mountain that separates me from the Asbestos Palace. Full-on lycra boy passes me at the bottom of the mountain, more sweat than man, and says 'you're going to ride up there on that?'

Why yes, good sir, I am. Admittedly, he disappeared into the distance long before I did. God know what he would have thought had I been astride le Saracen formidable (as I mostly am). That's like pedalling a recalcitrant elephant.

Truth be told, it's not that steep, just takes a bit of vim and a low, low gear. There's a pub at the top which would be irresistible but the beer selection is crap.

Sadly I couldn't pretend to be an aeroplane on the airfield at the top because things with wings were using it (the cheek of it). A fact lost of the couple with the dogs who were nonchalantly wandering across it (cue man in a van charging out to educate them).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 07 July, 2017, 08:54:19 am
Managed to beat the rain home last night, wasn't worth it, only a few big spots materialised and when I got off the bike I was a state, the full on lying on the floor, shaking, sick thing, not been like that for a very very long time  ???

Nice and easy this morning, last one before hollibobs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 10 July, 2017, 09:11:51 am
First day on the bike for a couple of weeks. Something feels different. I've not noticed the padding on the bar tape before. That would be because I always wear gloves. And a helmet. Too late to go back for them now. Oh well. I aten't dead yet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 10 July, 2017, 02:40:29 pm
Quote from: SteveC on 10 July, 2017, 09:11:51 am
First day on the bike for a couple of weeks. Something feels different. I've not noticed the padding on the bar tape before. That would be because I always wear gloves. And a helmet. Too late to go back for them now. Oh well. I aten't dead yet.

Ah, a close relative of the "how far can you get before you realise you aren't wearing your glasses" game.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SoreTween on 11 July, 2017, 07:28:26 pm
Moist
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 11 July, 2017, 08:30:40 pm
Very moist.

I may have dried out by the weekend.

Idiot in a chavmobile tried to throw some litter at me. He missed, on a account of the passenger window being mostly closed. Top tip, when attempting to chuck stuff out of the window, make sure it's open.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 11 July, 2017, 09:06:57 pm
Yesterday
Having cycled over 1,000km in June, and 600km over the first 9 days of July, I convinced myself I'd earned a day off and took the Tube.  I felt fine, just wanted a day off

Today
Got on the bike.  Had a couple of wobbles, then started feeling paranoid.  Movements of other vehicles and pedestrians I'd never think of twice were filling me with dread.  After just over a kilometre I turned back for home - couldn't face a 40km round trip in such a state.  :(  No idea what's gotten into me, but hope it's passed by tomorrow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 12 July, 2017, 07:07:34 am
The tube is full of people being ill!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 12 July, 2017, 05:47:08 pm
Yesterday evening (apart from being moist as several have pointed out) was notable for being overtaken (by a car) just once. It was very quiet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 12 July, 2017, 09:25:38 pm
I got back on my bicycle today, and survived.

The commute was far from the most enjoyable I've ever had, and the tight right turns filled me with dread rather than the usual worry, but no wobbles and no panic.  No idea what got into my head yesterday, but it's obviously on the way out!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DuncanM on 13 July, 2017, 03:24:50 pm
As I was stuffing my waterproof into my pocket in Abingdon someone with a bike approached me and asked if I had a puncture repair kit. After turning his bike upside down and fighting with the "quick release" (made distinctly un-quick by the lawyer lips), he then basically stood back and let me sort out the wheel - snakebite puncture, probably from going up a kerb. I found the hole by listening, roughed up, stuck on Park glueless patch, tube in, tyre on and pumped up medium hard (my mini pump could only produce a certain throughput of air, and it wouldn't seal perfectly on his valve stem, not helped by the wonky screw in bit). 10 minutes all in.
That's my good deed for the week! :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 13 July, 2017, 07:14:28 pm
Good... and bad.  Starting with the good.  Got to watch the Patrouille Suisse practicing their display as a I rode home.  They fly the world's prettiest fighter jet, bar none; the Northrop F5 .  Pretty much 2/3rds of my trip - cue much coasting and wobbling over the road. Wheels down as I was half a mile off home.

The bad, or at least the icky.  Got an unintended game of slug tennis* this morning.  Left calf splattered with squashed slug.  Ewww.  Thank goodness for workplace showers.


* See French Revolutions: Cycling the TdF by Tim Moore.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 13 July, 2017, 07:58:25 pm
Quote from: DuncanM on 13 July, 2017, 03:24:50 pm
After turning his bike upside down...
Burn the heretic!!  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DuncanM on 13 July, 2017, 08:02:27 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 13 July, 2017, 07:58:25 pm
Quote from: DuncanM on 13 July, 2017, 03:24:50 pm
After turning his bike upside down...
Burn the heretic!!  :D
I couldn't refuse to help him at that point, even if I had wanted to! :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 14 July, 2017, 09:38:51 pm
I nearly ended up in a police report today.  Coasting toward a red light, I moved over toward the kerb as I heard sirens behind me.  Suddenly I hear the roar of an engine, and think "emergency vehicles slow down at junctions, not speed up".  The the squeal of brakes as a car pulls across the lane, onto the pavement to my left, back onto the road at the junction, turns left.  It was not a police car, but a car the police were chasing.  Gave me quite a fright.

Once I started breathing again I looked behind me for the police.  They had slowed down, and at least one car looked like it was going to turn left down a side street.  Between the layout of the streets in the area and their distance from the junction where the perp turned, I seriously doubt they caught up with him.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 19 July, 2017, 11:15:37 am
Legs pretty wrecked today after club run last night.  That and the (unusual) headwind today made it a slog.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 19 July, 2017, 11:41:39 am
I've given up on my Etrex 30. Despite a couple of full resets, it doesn't record/ save tracks any more and loaded tracks are not displayable or even findable on the device, despite being visible in the right locations when connected to a laptop.

Its replacement is HK's Etrex 35, which seems to eat electrons at a great rate of knots. There are some UI hassles to be adapted to. We'll see how it turns out but I may be looking for a non-Garmin alternative down the line.

The last couple of days on fixed have settled that I won't be doing LEL on fixed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 19 July, 2017, 07:41:25 pm
Happy bunny.  Mostly side wind and some sections of tail wind on the ride back, but, even more importantly, didn't get held up at a single junction which gave me a sub 53min run and with an average speed a gnat's under 17mph.  I'll take that.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CAMRAMan on 20 July, 2017, 09:38:36 am
Drenched! It pissed down the whole 8 miles. The rain stung my face it was so hard. I poured water out of my shoes and had to wring my socks.

Still better than driving though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 21 July, 2017, 08:51:45 am
It rained for me on yesterdays commute, and that was the 1st commute I can remember where I didn't have mudguards. I forgot how crap that was.
Dry but a lot cooler today, steady jog in against the easterly soon warmed me up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 22 July, 2017, 08:01:42 am
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4330/36078737375_850d0ce33a.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/WY9XE8)The Trials of Life (https://flic.kr/p/WY9XE8) by sg310 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/24775321@N02/), on Flickr
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DuncanM on 25 July, 2017, 10:12:12 am
Nice cruise in this morning, until I got about half a mile from work. There was a nearly stationary queue of traffic, so I move over to the gutter so I can see past the traffic (to see if it's going to be worth going on the cycle path). BANG!  hisssss....
I had run over a drain, resulting in sn*k*b*t*s front and back. I guess the slots were wide enough to let the wheel drop through - I was lucky I was going slowly and straight enough that I didn't get thrown off (on the other hand, if the traffic was moving as per normal I wouldn't have been on that bit of the road).
Sigh. :-X
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 26 July, 2017, 08:00:45 am
That's two days running I've had to haul the anchors on for the same kamikaze cat, not sure who's using their lives up  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DuncanM on 26 July, 2017, 09:07:25 am
Quote from: DuncanM on 25 July, 2017, 10:12:12 am
Nice cruise in this morning, until I got about half a mile from work. There was a nearly stationary queue of traffic, so I move over to the gutter so I can see past the traffic (to see if it's going to be worth going on the cycle path). BANG!  hisssss....
I had run over a drain, resulting in sn*k*b*t*s front and back. I guess the slots were wide enough to let the wheel drop through - I was lucky I was going slowly and straight enough that I didn't get thrown off (on the other hand, if the traffic was moving as per normal I wouldn't have been on that bit of the road).
Sigh. :-X
I ended up having to get a lift home, because after replacing the back tube with a spare and fixing the front one (the other tube was too far gone), when I went to pump it up (or more precisely, after I had pumped it up), the pump unscrewed the valve core.  ::-) >:( I guess I need to add pliers to my bike toolkit, but seriously - what's the point in removable valve cores in an inner tube?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 26 July, 2017, 10:42:01 am
I had two instances of that recently on Mrs hatler's bike so I used a bit of threadlock to secure the inner.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Salvatore on 27 July, 2017, 09:43:06 am
On his Tuesday commute home Nuncio managed to remove the wing mirror and number plate of this car, as well as smashing the windscreen and damaging the bonnet. And he smuggled some gravel from the scene by embedding it in his scalp. The car was driven right across his path while he was descending rapidly.

(http://i.imgur.com/0n3dyaK.jpg)

From his description his bike's frame/forks are out of alignment.

Oh, and he has no broken bones, no concussion, just a few stitches in his head, and plenty of cuts, bruises and spectacular grazes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 27 July, 2017, 10:08:11 am
Ooooooooooooooooof !
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 27 July, 2017, 10:09:17 am
I'm not sure I damaged the bonnet.

She didn't see me at all, I didn't notice she'd slowed down to turn right into a drive and smear raspberry jam on my pate.

(http://i.imgur.com/96xR6RE.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/qRbGTz3.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 27 July, 2017, 10:10:29 am
Ouch GWS
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 27 July, 2017, 01:21:13 pm
Yes, get well soon!  I think the "damage" to the bonnet is actually a hippy-type scene....man.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 27 July, 2017, 01:26:57 pm
Ouchy  :-X GWS.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 27 July, 2017, 01:39:05 pm
I seem to be getting quicker as LEL approaches, even though I should be intentionally slowing down a bit at this stage (and sleeping a bit more). Do as I say and not as I do!

It seems that the Etrex 35 keeps recording rides as if ridden on previous days but no doubt there is something basic that I am overlooking.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 27 July, 2017, 06:39:26 pm
A bridge closure near me is causing traffic jams so I took an unusual trip along NCN72 home.

It looks like the farmer is back to his old trick of herding cows through the underpass again. The mixture of mud and cowshit was very slippery and deep enough to jam up my mudguards.

There's a reason I don't normally use that nice off-road cycle route ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 27 July, 2017, 06:57:51 pm
Nuncio.  Have the medics given you the all clear for stuff like concussion?

GWS.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 27 July, 2017, 09:09:19 pm
Thanks all.

Yes, Lurker, but still on the watch out, just in case. Concussion tests, then stitches (my wife could stand the sight of the gore but not the sight of the needle with anaesthetic being injected into the top of head), then a bit of a clean up, then 2 hours of observation, then a bit more of a clean up, then an x-ray to see of there was any more gravel left in my scalp, then we were handed a leaflet with warning signs for my wife to look out for, then waved goodbye.

It must have been a glancing blow, I didn't even have a headache, let alone loss of consciousness, memory or lucidity, nor any nausea. And that adrenaline's a wonderful thing, isn't it?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 28 July, 2017, 06:20:58 am
Very ouch, GWS.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris N on 28 July, 2017, 08:07:15 am
 :o  Ouch.  GWS Nuncio.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 02 August, 2017, 12:56:26 pm
The roadworks at Stretford and it's associated delays seem to be unhinging a few people, subject to tirade of abuse the other night and spat on last night, I'm guessing for not dematerialising through the now single lane past the mall, from what I've seen of the plans the two lanes are becoming one permanently, that'll be fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 02 August, 2017, 01:28:01 pm
Very unpleasant Si. Sorry to hear it.

Accident update.

I think my right shoulder smashed the windscreen, my right side - above my hip - removed the wing mirror, and the road did the remainder of the damage - head, left thigh (bruised and a bit swollen), left elbow and left knee (both having skin removed).  If you take out the fact that a car drove into me, I've been lucky.

The stitches came out this morning, relatively painlessly.  Free access for scab picking now. The nurse removed 6 but the doctor claimed to have put in 5.  The knee is still a bit stiff, but the physio said it will be OK in a couple of weeks, and recommends cycling for the recovery.

The bike is being repaired. Titanium frame OK (one minor scratch which I don't think was there before).  New forks, bars (and bar tape), and both wheels need trueing.

I've already had an offer of compensation for the bike (which assumes a total write-off but is not depenedent on it) and personal injury. It sounded reasonable but what do I know?  I'm waiting for a Slater Gordon solicitor to ring talk it through with me.

Unfortunately, as a result of all this I've discovered that work has put on a new subsidized bus route which picks up and drops right outside my house and costs £2 a week. I fear I may become a fairweather commuter.



Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Afasoas on 02 August, 2017, 08:54:11 pm
Seriously .. if you're driving a sign-written private hire taxi driver as an owner/driver, you need to not drive it like an [insert expletive of choice].
I have this man's name, address, phone number and a good deal of other information - I can't tell you how much refrain I'm demonstrating knowing what an abysmal driver and poor character he has shown himself to be.

Quote
Hi xxx,

You cut me up overtaking me on a mini roundabout at the top of ***** Bank where the ANN becomes **** Road.

I don't dispute you allowed sufficient space when you overtook. However, there was slow moving traffic immediately upon leaving the roundabout, as traffic was queued up because of drivers turning right into **** Drive. This meant you cut in front of me leaving the roundabout, whilst I was travelling at almost 20 mph. That coupled with you braking quite sharply and veering to the left as you did so, left me with very little space to reduce speed and very little contingency
to swerve.

Had you anticipated the traffic, you would have realised that overtaking me on a mini roundabout with congestion and roadworks was both risky and unnecessary.

When I approached your vehicle following the incident, I wanted a quiet word to explain why your manoeuvre was dangerous so that, hopefully you would, as a professional driver, take it on board constructively.

Unfortunately, I found your response to be anything but reasonable. I tried to explain to you that the space you left to my right hand side as you over took was not the issue, however as you insisted on shouting over me I was not able to make that point successfully.

Indeed, the highway code has specific rules on when it is/is not safe to overtake and in all seriousness I suggest you review them.

Recently I bore witness to a similar incident where a cyclist collided with a vehicle that had cut in front of him. That cyclist was injured as a result.

Although tempted to report the incident directly to the police and to the local licensing authority, I'd personally prefer that you acknowledged my concerns and chose to amend your driving style accordingly.

Regards
.a
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 03 August, 2017, 06:00:00 pm
Afosas : Hope you get a reasonable response.

More like autumn than August. On the plus side 47 minutes door to door so a smidgen over 19mph thanks to a couple of sections of generous tail wind and, another rarity, no hold ups at junctions.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TJG on 04 August, 2017, 01:58:01 pm
Yesterday my wife and daughter were away so I had no need to race home. I grabbed a pasty for tea and went for a bimble. Got a bit lost. Carried on bimbling until I was unlost. Eventually it got dark and I made my way home. Not sure if it still counts as a commute but it was the most enjoyable ride for a while.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 07 August, 2017, 08:22:00 am
I haven't commuted by bike for a week, whilst I awaited bits to put the commuting bike back together.  It did give me the excuse to spend a week reading books on the Tube. :D

This morning was the first commute on the reassembled commuter, so I expected half the bolts to fall out and carried tools in my pockets accordingly.  Of course, being that paranoid and having the tools easily to hand, I didn't need them. :)

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/cycling/small.php?size=300&file=P8070524_crop_adj.jpg) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/cycling/P8070524_crop_adj.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 07 August, 2017, 01:01:26 pm
Busted saddle, ride home is going to be fun  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 07 August, 2017, 01:10:15 pm
Good luck, Si!  I rode home to Rochdale from Tod once, with the saddle in my back pocket.  Had to remember at traffic lights!  Made it ok but shins hurt next day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 07 August, 2017, 01:30:30 pm
Cheers Peter, it could be worse, it's an arione and the shell has cracked all the way across but the leather is still holding the two halves sort of together so it's just collapsing onto the rails. It doesn't owe me anything, it's been on the commuter for about 8 years
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 08 August, 2017, 07:32:13 am
Quote from: TJG on 04 August, 2017, 01:58:01 pm
Yesterday my wife and daughter were away so I had no need to race home. I grabbed a pasty for tea and went for a bimble. Got a bit lost. Carried on bimbling until I was unlost. Eventually it got dark and I made my way home. Not sure if it still counts as a commute but it was the most enjoyable ride for a while.

Ride from work to home = commute. (My rules, my spreadsheet (including ride type)).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 08 August, 2017, 11:27:31 am
Just seen your jam fest, Nuncio. GWS.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 08 August, 2017, 01:28:27 pm
Thanks, all well and back on the (repaired) bike. I'm going to give it another week to make sure (as far as possible) there are no signs of long-term problems, and then probably accept what appears to be a very generous compensation offer. eg the bike portion is £1,000 but the repair cost £180.

So I'm going to get an n+1 with just the difference between the bike compensation and bike repair, let alone the personal injury money.

While I wouldn't exactly recommend being knocked off by a car, in this particular case I seem to have come out OK!

On the other hand I have lost my innocence. I've had 10 years of daily commuting to the month, and this morning's commute was the first ride wearing an H - mainly to shut up the naggers.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 09 August, 2017, 08:07:50 pm
Oh weel.  Normal service resumed.  Head / side winds so 1h+ work bound and similar homebound. 

On the plus side though over half the work-bound ride was dry and the remainder no more than drizzly and for the home trip I got longish periods of sunshine and no rain whatsoever.  This was a pleasant and welcome surprise as the forecast had led me to think I was in for a drenching each way.  So I reckon I came out ahead on points. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 10 August, 2017, 03:45:00 am
Riding in to work Weds evening, and it is precipitating down. I pass through a little tunnel under the main road, and unclip a foot ready for the sharp blind uphill left turn that usually has peds in the middle of the cycle path. There's a puddle in front of me.

My unclipped left foot allows me to step straight off the bike as it stops. Said puddle is literally knee-deep. My socks are still drying in the place I use to change in. My shoes will hopefully be OK. The flood warnings are out for all four routes home tomorrow that DON'T involve riding the rush hour traffic of the main Crawley-Redhill/Reigate dual carriageway.

Joy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 10 August, 2017, 04:21:08 am
Quote from: Steph on 10 August, 2017, 03:45:00 am
Riding in to work Weds evening, and it is precipitating down. I pass through a little tunnel under the main road, and unclip a foot ready for the sharp blind uphill left turn that usually has peds in the middle of the cycle path. There's a puddle in front of me.

My unclipped left foot allows me to step straight off the bike as it stops. Said puddle is literally knee-deep. My socks are still drying in the place I use to change in. My shoes will hopefully be OK. The flood warnings are out for all four routes home tomorrow that DON'T involve riding the rush hour traffic of the main Crawley-Redhill/Reigate dual carriageway.

Joy.

Sounds a bit soggy there Steph. I can't place the tunnel though, but OTOH you have moved, so the map in my head needs updating.  Is it v wet in Blighty?  I type from a Captain Cook's Mistake, where it's winter and 22 sunny degrees. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 15 August, 2017, 08:06:04 am
Almost as many cyclists as motorists this morning...now that is  8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Clare on 16 August, 2017, 08:50:40 am
Fastest ride in for ages this morning, bugger all traffic and only one light against me. So much for doom, gloom and 100 000 visitors.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 16 August, 2017, 01:08:58 pm
Not liking the massive increased in riders in Central London now. Most of them are fucking idiots to put it lightly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 16 August, 2017, 01:52:04 pm
Quote from: TigaSefi on 16 August, 2017, 01:08:58 pm
Not liking the massive increased in riders in Central London now. Most of them are fucking idiots to put it lightly.

At the moment, casual hire bike users are displacing pedestrians at the top of my 'list'.

In an effort to maintain a state of zen (ha!) a deliberate effort was made to exclude adjectives for the two groups referred to above.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TJG on 16 August, 2017, 01:59:21 pm
Saw 2 other laden cyclists on the A637 past the Yorkshire Sculpture Park today. Strava tells me I have ridden up it 95 times and I think today is the first time I have seen another cycle commuter there in the morning!  We are just like buses!   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 17 August, 2017, 08:44:36 am
Pulled off the estate today and

(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4438/36622922325_262a4479ff_n.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/XNf3Tg)

was a bit late
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DuncanM on 17 August, 2017, 08:55:40 am
It stopped raining as I started getting my bike ready, and didn't rain all the way in.  Result. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 17 August, 2017, 06:24:00 pm
Quote from: Si S on 17 August, 2017, 08:44:36 am
Pulled off the estate today and

(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4438/36622922325_262a4479ff_n.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/XNf3Tg)

was a bit late


50% late ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 17 August, 2017, 08:25:39 pm
Quote from: DuncanM on 17 August, 2017, 08:55:40 am
It stopped raining as I started getting my bike ready, and didn't rain all the way in.  Result. :)
Snap!  And I got sunshine and a tail wind on the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iZaP on 17 August, 2017, 08:40:30 pm
a beemer sweeps past me, nearly brushing my elbow.

At the traffic lights:

Me: Why did you go past me so close?
Driver: So f**** what?
Driver: You don't even f***** road tax!!!


Everyday London commuter for 6 years now, this is the first time I heard this in real life!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DuncanM on 17 August, 2017, 09:10:05 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 17 August, 2017, 08:25:39 pm
Quote from: DuncanM on 17 August, 2017, 08:55:40 am
It stopped raining as I started getting my bike ready, and didn't rain all the way in.  Result. :)
Snap!  And I got sunshine and a tail wind on the way home.
I got sunshine that became drizzle by the time I got home and then turned into proper rain. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 18 August, 2017, 08:27:11 am
Needed to shakedown the Sabbath after last weeks fettling and since everybody else is lying in bed nursing hangovers after the summer social (I'm exempt on the basis of having all the social skills of an angry rattlesnake) I came the long(er) way. It appears that this is the season to be top dressing, there's so much gravel on the south side of Warburton bridge I'm going to start a quarry over there, lots of scraping ensued since I'm running 30mm tyres in guards that are supposed to take a max of 28mm.

After that though it was absolute bliss - sunshine, tailwinds, sensible motorists all the way up Carrington Lane  :o and a bike that just makes you grin - cracking stuff  :thumbsup:

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 21 August, 2017, 08:46:46 am
Sore legs and a headwind this morning so was very grateful for the 4 mile draft behind a tractor
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 21 August, 2017, 09:31:42 am
Quote from: iZaP on 17 August, 2017, 08:40:30 pm
a beemer sweeps past me, nearly brushing my elbow.

At the traffic lights:

Me: Why did you go past me so close?
Driver: So f**** what?
Driver: You don't even f***** road tax!!!


Everyday London commuter for 6 years now, this is the first time I heard this in real life!!!

It's virtually never worth trying to point out such things to motor vehicle drivers.  At best, they'll ignore you, but you're more likely to get an earful back, telling you that it's your fault for having the audacity to actually be cycling legally on the roads.

I know other people have (rarely) had apologies from car drivers, but it's yet to happen to me.  For the minor venting of your own annoyance, the crap that you almost invariably get back does not make it worth it.  There's also the slight risk that some insane lunatic will decide to use his vehicle to demonstrate his own feelings on the matter.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 23 August, 2017, 08:33:25 am
Not a good start to the day, Miss S had failed to do what I asked yesterday, the net result was having to wear kit straight out the washing machine...lovely...squeezed into the kerb by a bus driver who was obviously desperate for a smoke quickly followed by a left hook from an audiot that required full evasive action.

Stopped on Kings Road to investigate a creaking saddle rail and WVM pulled up and asked "Got a puncture? Need a lift to work?", didn't know him from Adam but he's says he see's been seeing me everyday for years. My faith in humanity is somewhat restored.  :thumbsup:

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 23 August, 2017, 09:55:49 pm
Apparently I look just like Ramón.  I have no idea who Ramón is, other than the friend of a woman who called out after me in Spanish.  Cue much embarrassment when she realised I was not her friend.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 24 August, 2017, 08:00:07 am
Here y'go, Google is your friend

(https://i.ytimg.com/vi/kTWRdTNAUsc/maxresdefault.jpg)

HTH
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 24 August, 2017, 08:00:19 am
Thank $deity for mudguards, the cycle lane on Oxford Rd is awash with  :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: telstarbox on 24 August, 2017, 12:19:29 pm
Yesterday due to a brief lapse in concentration, ended up on the right (wrong) side of Quietway 1 and nearly collided with a correctly positioned oncoming cyclist. Sorry if you're reading this.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 24 August, 2017, 01:06:37 pm
Quote from: Si S on 24 August, 2017, 08:00:19 am
Thank $deity for mudguards, the cycle lane on Oxford Rd is awash with  :sick:

Hmm.  That neither proves nor entirely disproves my theory that 'Oxford' is an Old English word meaning "too many buses"...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 24 August, 2017, 01:31:26 pm
Quote from: Ham on 24 August, 2017, 08:00:07 am
Here y'go, Google is your friend

{ photo deleted, because once is enough }

HTH

When I'm not busy being a wrestler, it appears I'm also a Ukrainian army general (https://scontent-lht6-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t31.0-8/21013856_1587438797988651_5673037499095316932_o.jpg?oh=3c95a1153850c920783884ad594ce38a&oe=5A3047DD).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 24 August, 2017, 06:00:45 pm
Now I've had time to think today's commute was quite scary.

A construction van coming the other way up the A595 hadn't been packed properly, and as he came towards me a roll of red/white barrier tape started unfurling out of the back. It slew across the road and caught me round the neck! :o

Luckily I'd managed to just about stop by the time it hit me, and the tape ran out and wasn't attached to the van, so it didn't tighten and I managed to get it over my head. Immediately afterwards van coming past me got the tape wrapped round it's wing mirror and wrapped the tape back round my leg and the seatpost of my bike before he managed to stop.

The driver of the second van and I just looked at each other in amazement and after he checked I was ok and hadn't been knocked off, we collected up the tape which he took in his van to throw away. I think I was more shocked than anything at the time.

Happy to report that other than some continuing mechanical grumbles about my new chainset, the ride home was rather uneventful by comparison.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 25 August, 2017, 08:05:14 am
That could have been really nasty mcshroom, glad you're still with us. I took a bit of a longer way in today just because, think I'll declare a POETS day and go play on the way home too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 25 August, 2017, 08:36:38 am
Bloody hell mcshroom! Glad you're OK!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 26 August, 2017, 07:51:53 am
Home via the NCN last night.....Oh those jolly sustrans folks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 26 August, 2017, 10:57:23 am
Quote from: telstarbox on 24 August, 2017, 12:19:29 pm
Yesterday due to a brief lapse in concentration, ended up on the right (wrong) side of Quietway 1 and nearly collided with a correctly positioned oncoming cyclist. Sorry if you're reading this.
Wasn't me. But yesterday on Quietway 1 I was happily on the correct side of the road--positioned to pass a parked car ahead--when an oncoming van driver decided he'd try to pass me on my left. He was trying to be helpful, apparently.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: paddyirish on 30 August, 2017, 11:55:24 am
Forth Road Bridge closed to traffic today - was spookily quiet, but really quite pleasant.

Queensferry Crossing still not ready, but good enough so they can say they opened it in August.  Shuts again for a week or so after tomorrow night.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 30 August, 2017, 06:10:07 pm
Been on jury service this week.

This had involved me riding into town to the courthouse, sitting around till lunchtime before being told to clear orf, then riding back out of town to my workplace.

So 3 60k commutes this week!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 30 August, 2017, 06:25:43 pm
Today, I field tested my new Portland Design Works Full Metal Fenders. Thoroughly. More thoroughly than I would have chosen, but there you are.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 30 August, 2017, 09:41:02 pm
On the ride in today, as another cyclist passed he slowed down to say "That's a beautiful bike, mate."  :-D

I was on my Hewitt Cheviot SE.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ruthie on 30 August, 2017, 09:44:09 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 30 August, 2017, 09:41:02 pm
On the ride in today, as another cyclist passed he slowed down to say "That's a beautiful bike, mate."  :-D

I was on my Hewitt Cheviot SE.

A cyclist with good taste, then?   :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 30 August, 2017, 10:51:08 pm
Cycling home down the lanes, two cars pass me with sufficient space. I spy a car headed towards me and hear a third car behind. Obvs. driver of the third car decides to pass too, resulting in a blare of horn from the approaching car and the whoosh of air as the wing mirror passes me >< that close.

I put some beans into it and catch him 800m down the road at a T junction. My well balanced critique of his driving went west as I saw he was on the phone.

"You drive like a cock mate"
"You're a cock and you're sitting on one" was his response. (It was a Dave Yates, but there you go)
"Get off the phone."  He makes to get out of the car and I swing round towards him
"I'll smash your fucking head in" he suggests.
I cycle away/decide discretion is the better part of valour.

Then later at the Chequers  roundabout I'm passing two lane entry. The right hand most driver clocks me and waits but I notice a driver in the left lane. I swing past him then hear the gunning of an engine and scrabble of tyres  Simultaneously i (a) give it more beans (2) yell "Fuck Off" (iii) look behind to give the driver a Hard Stare.  He realises his error (of not looking) eases off and waves.

All a bit much really.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 01 September, 2017, 03:43:29 pm
Quote from: Ham on 30 August, 2017, 06:25:43 pm
Today, I field tested my new Portland Design Works Full Metal Fenders. Thoroughly. More thoroughly than I would have chosen, but there you are.

Presumably they worked as regards keeping water and crud off, but how are they relating to fitting and "rattling" ?

I did see them a few years ago, but at the time they were impossible to acquire.  They're also quite expensive compared to the alternatives, most of which work somewhere between poorly and barely adequate.

My single speed commuter has little clearance on the rear wheel with 700×23s fitted (even less with ×25s), so conventional mudguards won't cut it, and most of the alternatives are annoying in some fashion.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 01 September, 2017, 05:41:41 pm
Today was the last day at our old office, we are moving to a new building.

No work was done this morning, the movers are in.
A feast of special magnificance was put on at lunchtime, and we were all kicked out at 1pm to allow the movers to get on with it.
So 4 of us went for a spin down to Stonehaven for a beer.

I'd missed the morning on account of Jury Service, so I joined in at lunchtime for the food, cycling and beer.
So 100k on a workday, getting paid for it was a result!

https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1951944960

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 02 September, 2017, 04:49:15 pm
Quote from: TimO on 01 September, 2017, 03:43:29 pm
Quote from: Ham on 30 August, 2017, 06:25:43 pm
Today, I field tested my new Portland Design Works Full Metal Fenders. Thoroughly. More thoroughly than I would have chosen, but there you are.

Presumably they worked as regards keeping water and crud off, but how are they relating to fitting and "rattling" ?

I did see them a few years ago, but at the time they were impossible to acquire.  They're also quite expensive compared to the alternatives, most of which work somewhere between poorly and barely adequate.

My single speed commuter has little clearance on the rear wheel with 700×23s fitted (even less with ×25s), so conventional mudguards won't cut it, and most of the alternatives are annoying in some fashion.

I had them on the old commuter for a few years, rattling-none, fitting is very easy.

Downsides:

Due to the single stay arrangement the bracket at the rear brake bridge is prone to metal fatigue, 10 thousand km  was about typical before having to buy the fixing kit for a replacement.

If you have no eyelets you mount on the skewer so have to remove the skewer to get the wheel out.

That said they are far superior to cruds, raceblades etc.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 04 September, 2017, 05:22:05 pm
Today I discovered that my new Funkier 'Waterproof' well, isn't really  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 05 September, 2017, 09:14:01 am
And carnage is restored, schools must be back
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tippers_kiwi on 05 September, 2017, 12:52:26 pm
For the second time I got a sting from some kind of animal and I have no idea what it was and nearly exactly a year apart.

It's odd because both time I thought it was a leaf being blown of a tree that just happened to hit me. The first one stung me in the neck this one managed to get tot he bottom of my top and sting me in the belly.

I've been trying to look up potential candidate but can't come up with anything. I thought it might be a butterfly of some kind but I can't find anything that would fit the bill on line. It really hurt when it stings and it swells quite a lot locally (something my belly can do without  ;D)

Any ideas?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 05 September, 2017, 05:57:33 pm
First ride into the new office today.

A mix of busy roads, quiet roads and cycle path.
12.5k each way, so shorter than before.

https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1960105989

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 05 September, 2017, 06:35:08 pm
Quote from: tippers_kiwi on 05 September, 2017, 12:52:26 pm
For the second time I got a sting from some kind of animal and I have no idea what it was and nearly exactly a year apart.
<snip>
Any ideas?
This time of year?  In the UK?  A wasp seems most likely.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 06 September, 2017, 09:22:57 am
Up the curry mile for a change, quite surprised at just how little distance that adds, not sure it's going to sensible when the students are back but at the minute the infra is ok-ish without any peds even if it is a bit chicaney.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SoreTween on 06 September, 2017, 11:13:41 pm
Gosh.  Followed some random person onto a train tonight who sat down in the cycle spaces (so normal) who when noticing me following him onto the train with a cycle vacated said space. Gosh again. Thanks.

I'm more used to the experience last time I was on a train with a bike. The space I'd booked was full of cute Chinese girls with LUGGAGE studiously asleep and ignoring all requests to vacate.  The knut of a guard would rather bitch at me for blocking the aisle (not even close) rather than do his fekking job and move the studiously asleep but cute forrrins occupying the space they hadn't booked
 Yeah, I'm not cute.

Should have been posted in rants.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: delap on 07 September, 2017, 12:39:26 am
Despite a coincidence of routes in opposing directions (albeit mine considerably shorter) I missed the opportunity to offer my support to Jasmijn Muller (https://www.lejogrecord.co.uk/) by about half an hour. Perhaps other forumites might get the chance tomorrow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 07 September, 2017, 09:06:26 am
Decided to shake down the Sabbath before taking it to Arran on Saturday, that was a good call, rear brake cable is sticking so a return for a bike swap. Haven't got the time to fettle it tonight, or a long enough outer, I reckon tomorrow will be declared a POETS day for last minute fettling.

Being a few minutes later the traffic was mental and got a really nasty pass, most certainly malicious involving a deliberate swerve in to me from an Audiot.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 08 September, 2017, 08:22:02 am
Last night they'd got the bridge over the ship canal swung so crossing was over the lock gates, one regular very nearly ended up in the lock when he slipped on the ramp, there was desperate lunge for his bike which was just successful.

Very wet this morning and had to put more effort in than I wanted just to keep warm. Note to self: stop keeping the ruddy waterproof at the bottom of the pannier
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 08 September, 2017, 10:39:57 am
I was asked if I work for yacf this morning. Given the thousands of cyclists who pile along London's CS7 in the morning, my regular wearing of my blue and yellow yacf jerseys has obviously caught someone's eye. I think it helps as well that I don't wear a helmet so am more recognisable/memorable.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TJG on 08 September, 2017, 01:47:07 pm
Well that was unpleasantly wet and all of a sudden the rain feels cold and wintery.
Also where did all those cars come from? I really struggle to understand how that happens when it rains because I don't see that many people walking or cycling when it's dry!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 08 September, 2017, 02:02:22 pm
Quote from: Si S on 08 September, 2017, 08:22:02 am
Last night they'd got the bridge over the ship canal swung so crossing was over the lock gates, one regular very nearly ended up in the lock when he slipped on the ramp, there was desperate lunge for his bike which was just successful.

Very wet this morning and had to put more effort in than I wanted just to keep warm. Note to self: stop keeping the ruddy waterproof at the bottom of the pannier

Was it the green Kellogs freighter going through?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: the straggler on 08 September, 2017, 07:52:42 pm
Just got shunted on the side of my motorbike when a driver pulled out from side road as I was turning right onto side road at a junction with myself having the right of way. Fortunately only the exhaust got damaged with no personal injury suffered.

I am unsure to involve the insurance people as I only want my exhaust repaired. What are the pro and cons in not involving the insurance people if the car driver is willing to agree to pay for fitting 2nd hand exhaust only. Just thinking it will result in higher future insurance premiums, as I am both bike and car user should I make a claim.

Advice would be much appreciated. Cheers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 08 September, 2017, 08:10:48 pm
Quote from: Peter on 08 September, 2017, 02:02:22 pm
Quote from: Si S on 08 September, 2017, 08:22:02 am
Last night they'd got the bridge over the ship canal swung so crossing was over the lock gates, one regular very nearly ended up in the lock when he slipped on the ramp, there was desperate lunge for his bike which was just successful.

Very wet this morning and had to put more effort in than I wanted just to keep warm. Note to self: stop keeping the ruddy waterproof at the bottom of the pannier

Was it the green Kellogs freighter going through?

Don't know Peter, no boat about
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jsabine on 08 September, 2017, 11:32:26 pm
Quote from: the straggler on 08 September, 2017, 07:52:42 pm
Just got shunted on the side of my motorbike when a driver pulled out from side road as I was turning right onto side road at a junction with myself having the right of way. Fortunately only the exhaust got damaged with no personal injury suffered.

I am unsure to involve the insurance people as I only want my exhaust repaired. What are the pro and cons in not involving the insurance people if the car driver is willing to agree to pay for fitting 2nd hand exhaust only. Just thinking it will result in higher future insurance premiums, as I am both bike and car user should I make a claim.

Advice would be much appreciated. Cheers.

*If* the car driver is willing to pay up, and does so without stalling, there is an incentive for him in that what his insurers don't know can't affect his premium.

You should, of course, both have reported a collision causing property damage to the police within 24 hours. If he doesn't pay up readily and you later involve insurers, you may be asked why you didn't report it. If he has reported it and given a different account of events, it is possible that his version would carry more weight in the event of a dispute.

Although this would presumably be a no fault claim from you so wouldn't affect your no claims discount, actuaries love to suggest that involvement in one incident means you are more likely to be involved in another, so your base premium might go up as you are seen to be a higher risk.

At policy inception or renewal, you are normally asked to declare any incidents, whether or not they have given rise to an insurance claim. Not declaring one could be used to invalidate a policy or repudiate a claim - if they found out, or felt it was material.

Basically, crystallising any benefit from not involving the insurers will later involve a degree of dishonesty, albeit one that IME most people are happy with.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: delap on 11 September, 2017, 10:16:42 am
Quote
You should, of course, both have reported a collision causing property damage to the police within 24 hours

Only if, as the driver of a motor vehicle whose presence caused an accident to occur, you 'fail to give [your] name and address and also the name and address of the owner and the identification marks of the vehicle' 'for any reason' to 'any person having reasonable grounds for so requiring'

RTR 1988 Part VII section 170 (http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1988/52/section/170)

So fine if you have exchanged details although both of you are likely to be obliged to inform your insurers
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 14 September, 2017, 11:32:18 am
Been doing a ton of work from home: In the office today though, and quite enjoyed the ride in. Quite cool, very nice riding conditions.
Enjoyed feeling wide awake for start of work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TJG on 19 September, 2017, 01:59:56 pm
Not one single close pass.  3 lorries waited behind me with no crunching of gears or revving of engines until it was safe to pass.
Not sure if it was anything to do with the heavily loaded pannier having an effect or just a coincidence but all in all it was a lovely ride in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 20 September, 2017, 01:24:06 pm
First post since the last commuting on bikes to Newport. Now upto Gloucester. A nice run through the lanes as the sun was coming up and then on to the A38. Not the nicest but the quickest. Incident free.

Onto another 7miles & then the train home. Too far for there & back see.   :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jacomus on 20 September, 2017, 04:30:12 pm
Quote from: TJG on 19 September, 2017, 01:59:56 pm
Not one single close pass.  3 lorries waited behind me with no crunching of gears or revving of engines until it was safe to pass.
Not sure if it was anything to do with the heavily loaded pannier having an effect or just a coincidence but all in all it was a lovely ride in.

I always feel a little guilty about the revving engine. There is a collection I go to fairly frequently where, on the way out, I'll be running at exactly 44 tons. Often I will meet a cyclist or two or three right at the foot of a steep hill up through the village. Crawling up it in second gear with that much weight on at a handful of kmh behind the cyclist is a noisy experience, nothing to do with attempting to pass.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 22 September, 2017, 10:57:49 am
Soaked through yesterday morning, but what a difference a day makes.
Beautiful ride in today, cool: 5.1C on the Garmin but no wind,dry, just the best way to get to work
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 25 September, 2017, 09:29:13 am
The first really damp dark commute of the season.  Not too bad overall, but I was a bit slower than optimal, because of nervousness on the wet roads.  It wasn't that heavily raining, but fairly continuous drizzle for an hour, will soak you, regardless.  However, I did get a colourful image on the camera !

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/cycling/small.php?size=250&file=CommuteZoomed_20170925.jpg) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/cycling/CommuteZoomed_20170925.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 27 September, 2017, 06:15:47 pm
I planned that wrong. I had to commute between site ond out offices in Whitehaven today, so I ended up riding there and home into a stiff headwind, and catching a train on the tailwind leg.

We also had a strike in site which meant really long queues of annoyed drivers trying to get through the gates - that I could ride straight past :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nethypete on 28 September, 2017, 09:48:28 pm
Stunning early morning commute from Nethy to Aviemore railway station, linking with NCN7 and Speyside Way - dawn, rainbow and solitude. Stunning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 02 October, 2017, 05:18:38 pm
First time through Tooting Bec since the council massacred the Chestnut Avenue. :'(
They've replanted with Small-Leafed Limes, thus completely changing the future character of the path as well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 05 October, 2017, 08:35:27 pm
One hour seven to ride 15 miles?  Oh well 5 weeks off the bike and a nasty headwind were bound to take their toll.  At least I didn't get rained on. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 05 October, 2017, 08:48:24 pm
I bumped into an old colleague on CS7 yesterday morning. We chatted all the way into the City. What a great catch up that was.

Today I saw nerk-onna-bike nearly twat himself good and proper in Tooting. Tall white van preparing to turn left in the traffic lane running parallel with CS7. Van is indicating left and slowing down, and starts the turn whilst NOB is accelerating hard. Van stops the turn leaving a gap of about 1' between a line from the kerb and front of van. NOB slices through the gap, and slams into the back of a van that had been coming the other way and was turning to his right. Which means that the NOB wasn't able to react in the time it took a whole van to pass in front of him. He rolled off, dusted himself down and was underway again within a minute.What a way to commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 05 October, 2017, 10:45:16 pm
Superb harvest moon commute this evening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nethypete on 06 October, 2017, 06:09:41 am
Quote from: TheLurker on 05 October, 2017, 08:35:27 pm
One hour seven to ride 15 miles?  Oh well 5 weeks off the bike and a nasty headwind were bound to take their toll.  At least I didn't get rained on. :)

If time off makes you that fast I must take a break  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 06 October, 2017, 05:22:40 pm
Quote from: Nethypete on 06 October, 2017, 06:09:41 am
Quote from: TheLurker on 05 October, 2017, 08:35:27 pm
One hour seven to ride 15 miles?  Oh well 5 weeks off the bike and a nasty headwind were bound to take their toll.  At least I didn't get rained on. :)

If time off makes you that fast I must take a break  :thumbsup:
*Chortle*.  Alas, there's an important word missing from my post;  minutes.   One hour seven _minutes_.  I usually expect work-bound to be just under the hour and on many days it will be close to 55 minutes.   So some 10 or 12 minutes slower than usual. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 09 October, 2017, 01:12:39 pm
Good grief, it's me! :o

I might actually be a cyclist after all!  I've had a few days of heaving a fixed over some mildly rolling Worcestershire landscape (and some wildly ridiculous bits of Dudley/Rowley Regis etc), but I now have my tourer with me, and find that I can ride up all the hills Kidderminster throws at me (albeit slowly).  I think I may be getting my groove back via a resurfacing mojo.

I hope I can keep at this commuting lark, but I also hope that I am living somewhere less rurally isolated by the time the serious weather happens :/
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 10 October, 2017, 05:56:03 pm
Going into the bike shed yesterday afternoon for the ride home, I discovered not one, but *two* flat tyres.

Caused, I think, by me mis-judging a ramp that leads to the bike shed, on the return from our lunchtime ride.
I crashed up a sharp kerb quite heavily.

So I had to fettle 2 flat tyres.
One tube from my seat pack, and one from my stash in my desk drawer.
Another from the stash went into back into the seat pack.

Bah!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 11 October, 2017, 09:42:28 am
Severe case of Friday legs today.

Thank heavens it's the weekend!

What? :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: telstarbox on 11 October, 2017, 12:13:09 pm
Nearly a horrible accident on CS5 at Vauxhall Cross today. Crowd of cyclists waiting at the lights to go west onto Vauxhall Bridge (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.4864616,-0.1237026,3a,75y,330.86h,88.73t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sPQtl7bQ9Cm6K2VriRdQkeA!2e0!7i13312!8i6656) (by the MI6 building). One decides not to wait and turns right onto Albert Embankment, straight into the path of an HGV whose driver does well to brake and just avoid a collision. Cue much sucking through teeth and tutting from the rest of us...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 13 October, 2017, 01:20:24 pm
Quote from: telstarbox on 11 October, 2017, 12:13:09 pm
Nearly a horrible accident on CS5 at Vauxhall Cross today. Crowd of cyclists waiting at the lights to go west onto Vauxhall Bridge (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.4864616,-0.1237026,3a,75y,330.86h,88.73t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sPQtl7bQ9Cm6K2VriRdQkeA!2e0!7i13312!8i6656) (by the MI6 building). One decides not to wait and turns right onto Albert Embankment, straight into the path of an HGV whose driver does well to brake and just avoid a collision. Cue much sucking through teeth and tutting from the rest of us...

Idiot cyclist. did he/she carry on cycling oblivious to it all?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: telstarbox on 13 October, 2017, 03:50:31 pm
Yeah, they weren't stopping for anyone.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Charlie Polecat on 13 October, 2017, 05:38:41 pm
Not commuting, but something similar happened to me on Sunday - rando ride - when I came up to a main road where often there is little traffic and I usually head straight across, but this time found myself heading straight into a line of trucks and could not unclip my shoe to stop and dismount, so I had to immediately veer right coming alongside the line of vehicles, all who stopped and probably collectively said: Stupid cyclist  - and rightly so.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 16 October, 2017, 09:54:05 am
So I did (almost) a full week last week.  Couldn't ride Friday because we were heading to Worthing by car straight after work, and we did NOT need an extra bike on board!

Back on the bike this morning.  Feels good.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 16 October, 2017, 06:43:34 pm
The ride home was interesting. It's a little bit blowy out!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 17 October, 2017, 02:12:30 pm
Blowy enough here in the West Midlands.  I bailed on the second part of my cycle commute.  I hate to imagine what it was like in the wild coastal NW! :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 17 October, 2017, 07:44:22 pm
It wasn't that bad actually. Most of the time I had a stonking tailwindwas having a very good day ;D

Unfortunately the care the drivers were showing in the wind yesterday has gone today. Two bridges are closed round here at the moment, and the rat-runners on the rural lanes are a pain in the backside. I decided not to extend my commute home tonight because I wasn't enjoying dealing with the impatient morons on lanes hardly wider than the cars they were throwing around.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 18 October, 2017, 09:35:50 am
Saw a photo in the Metro this morning of an artic blown over on the M6. :o

Glad you are OK, despite the idiots.

Quant a moi, I had Zero Mojo yesterday morning, and Butterfly gave me a lift all the way to work (then took my new frame to have the headset fitted at the Good Bike Shop - there's love for you! :* ).  Had a very good ride home, though, beating 19kph average for the rural section*, despite the lumps.  Managed the same again this morning, despite (or maybe because of) consciously riding 'within myself'.  In fact, I averaged 21.1kph up to the bottom of the last hill to the station, which is an underpass and a steep climb on a shared path.  In town, I passed hundreds of stationary cars to get to work in a very good time.

Incidentally, on my urban section of commute, there is a place with a shared path signposted.  It's a plain grass verge, with NO PATH AT ALL!! :o  Is the sign planted by anti-cycling provocateurs wanting to increase animosity on the roads?  Or Sandwell Council?**

* rather than the pretty consistent 18pointsomething averages I've been clocking

** I accept the difference between the two is somewhat slim
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 19 October, 2017, 09:40:31 am
Me for the first time in weeks.  :o

Where was all the traffic? it's not half term here the kids were still walking and cycling to school but I can only assume the closure of Wokingham town center one way system for long term construction has shifted the rat runners else where as the traffic was summer holiday light.

For not having ridden in in ~8 weeks the ride was a remarkably swift one so I fear the return journey will be harder, the wind must be from the east.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 19 October, 2017, 02:34:42 pm
Bit slower home last night, after looooong train delays*  And a partial chain unshipping**  Had to change my brake blocks last night, so was riding a bit gingerly this morning, but did OK.

* Not by Southern Rail standards
** Entirely my fault for aggressive changing down under tension, but I had to furtle about in my bag in the DARK to find my headtorch before I could discover it was easily sorted by a twitch of the crank, and I was on my way (as soon as I could set off uphill in a higher gear than was required for starting) :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 19 October, 2017, 05:14:33 pm
Had to tighten the rear brake mounting bolt this morning after I noticed a slight rubbing sound on the way home last night.

How/why on earth did that come loose?  It must be about 10,000 miles since I tightened that one up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 19 October, 2017, 05:36:05 pm
Before setting off this morning, I removed the old light which was attached by a couple of cable-ties, replacing it with a new Cateye with one of those rubber band attachments.
A dream coming home. Tail wind and the bike running almost silently instead of the continuous rattle. Lovely. Even with the rain.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 19 October, 2017, 06:59:07 pm
Today, my homeward commute was not directly to home.
It was 27k out to Banchory, my former workplace, where I had the car in for some fettling at the garage which I continue to use.
As an added embuggerance, I had a large rucksack with a bunch of Wiggle deliveries and changes of clothes.

One of my cow-orkers lives in Banchory, and is a keen club cyclist.
I've never ridden with him.

So it was agreed we'd ride back to Banchory together.
Since we'd never ridden together before, we didn't really know each other's pace, so the usual stiffening of pace ensued.
When we were almost there, he said "Well, that was rather brisk!"
Me: "But I thought you were setting the pace, and you always rode your commute at this speed!"
Him: "Hell, No!"

We averaged over 31kph!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 19 October, 2017, 09:36:47 pm
Wife needed car so cycled into my soon to be former job for probably only the 10th or so time. Had planned to do it most days but shifts weren't really condusive for it. Very very warm as had bright waterproof on due to fog on way in and pretty much the same on way home. Traffic well behaved although had to properly dig in to get out the way of an shifting ambulance.

Same again tomorrow. Hope the winds on my back after work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 19 October, 2017, 10:15:56 pm
Edinburgh's a pure mess with roadworks just now.
At the now 1-way Haymarket Terrace, I still can't decide whether its best to walk along the pavement or follow the diversion with added cobbles.
Done both, kind of favouring just walking a while even though it goes against the grain.

At Leith street, the temporary cycle way is a bit crap with plenty of cyclists going too fast in it, and loads of debris from the building site.  Saw some nails this morning, but didn't puncture.  The security guards (marshals ?)  in hi-viz are a puzzle, I thought they were there to make sure we all dismounted at the pinch points but don't seem to be.

Enjoyed my last 2 return commutes, was pressing on and had a couple of 2nd best times per strava on longer segments.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 19 October, 2017, 10:42:48 pm
A bit later than usual coming home, so got to see some impressive fireworks over LBNewham (rather than just hearing them.  ALL. EVENING. LONG.).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 19 October, 2017, 11:13:58 pm
As expected the ride home was tougher than out this morning. The rider who passed me showed up my lack of fitness, I was able to jump onto his wheel but as soon as the road went even gently up I was dropped like a wet bar of soap.  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 20 October, 2017, 08:11:47 am
The ride in this morning was drier than I expected, the rain on the radar seeming to decide to just miss me.  There was some very slight drizzle, but barely enough to notice.  :thumbsup:

The wind seemed to be mostly behind me, which was nice, but the roads were very wet, with a liberal dose of leaves and other wind borne debris.

Whilst I was away for a couple of days, on a work dismantling job, they appear to have done something to the dodgy corner on Totting Bec Common's cycle path (https://goo.gl/maps/6Trsw3GDM2R2), which has progressively had the parallel cracking getting worse and worse.  In the dark, I couldn't really see what they've done, aside from some resurfacing.  I should be able to see things better on the way home.  The gradual degradation has tended to mean that most cyclists take a path near to the middle of the path, in both directions on a fairly blind corner, which was a recipe for eventual disaster.  I hope they've removed the adverse camber, but I'm not very optimistic about that.

It's a shame they haven't decided to resurface the entire path, since whilst that corner is easily the worst bit, the rest of the path is far from being in good condition (partly due to them trashing bits of it, removing the white cyclist - pedestrian separating line).

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/cycling/small.php?size=400&file=Commute_20171020_TootingBecCommonCornerRepairs.jpg) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/cycling/Commute_20171020_TootingBecCommonCornerRepairs.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 20 October, 2017, 09:07:51 am
Why did they remove the dividing line? OK, every pedestrian ignored it (which might be my answer, I suppose).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 20 October, 2017, 11:09:46 am
Quote from: ian on 20 October, 2017, 09:07:51 am
Why did they remove the dividing line? OK, every pedestrian ignored it (which might be my answer, I suppose).

That was my best guess, but I don't know exactly why.

Essentially, they drove a machine along, which ground off the white line, but in the process left a rutted, broken-up area.  It seemed like a very random, and ill thought out procedure.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 20 October, 2017, 11:44:09 am
Quote from: TimO on 20 October, 2017, 11:09:46 am
Quote from: ian on 20 October, 2017, 09:07:51 am
Why did they remove the dividing line? OK, every pedestrian ignored it (which might be my answer, I suppose).

That was my best guess, but I don't know exactly why.

Essentially, they drove a machine along, which ground off the white line, but in the process left a rutted, broken-up area.  It seemed like a very random, and ill thought out procedure.

That's what they did in Canon Hill Park.  For those who aren't familiar, the park has a wide, high-quality service road, some of which has NCN5 (Birmingham's one useful cycle route) running on it.  A few years ago, someone had the bright idea of painting a ~1.5m cycle lane along one side of it, along with a selection of (5) roundels.  (There was much confusion as to whether this implied a 5mph speed limit, or was simply marking the route.)  Nevertheless, it was ignored by pedestrians as these things always are, so actively increased conflict with cyclists who tried to comply with it.

After protests from Pushbikes and other interested parties, this was, thankfully, changed.  They scraped up (or pressure-blasted or something) the lane marking and roundels, and installed some "Share with care" signs urging cyclists to ring their bell[1] and dog-emptiers to keep them on a lead.  Cyclists may now use the full width of the road to pass pedestrians.

The tarmac is now beginning to suffer where the surface was compromised by the removal of the markings, of course.


[1] I'm in favour of such signs.  Pedestrians get much less offended by bell-use in their presence.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 20 October, 2017, 05:49:04 pm
Cycled past this earlier. "Sorry, not in service" - no shit, Sherlock!

(https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/news/660/cpsprodpb/14D66/production/_98405358_busnewsline.jpg) (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-north-east-orkney-shetland-41692899)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 20 October, 2017, 09:33:57 pm
Rather gutted that the wind had died down. Hoped to be rewarded for the head wind battle on way to work with a sail home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 21 October, 2017, 12:01:28 am
Quote from: Pingu on 20 October, 2017, 05:49:04 pm
Cycled past this earlier. "Sorry, not in service" - no shit, Sherlock!

(https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/news/660/cpsprodpb/14D66/production/_98405358_busnewsline.jpg) (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-north-east-orkney-shetland-41692899)

Please put this in the caption it thread.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 21 October, 2017, 12:55:58 pm
Quote from: Kim on 20 October, 2017, 11:44:09 am
That's what they did in Canon Hill Park. ... with a selection of (5) roundels.  (There was much confusion as to whether this implied a 5mph speed limit, or was simply marking the route.) ...

I'm fairly sure, although I can't find any quotes, that there was a case a few years ago, where a "No Cycling" sign painted on a path in a Royal Park (I think Hyde Park) was found to be inadequate by a court.  To be enforceable, they needed it to be on an actual upright sign.  I would imagine exactly the same thing would apply to a speed limit painted on the read, although it also sounds like this wasn't the case in that park.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 21 October, 2017, 01:01:56 pm
There is a sign at the gate (which is normally locked, and opened to allow access to event lorries etc) instructing "vehicles" to keep to 5mph.  Cyclists quite reasonably ignore it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 21 October, 2017, 01:28:14 pm
Quote from: Kim on 21 October, 2017, 01:01:56 pm
There is a sign at the gate (which is normally locked, and opened to allow access to event lorries etc) instructing "vehicles" to keep to 5mph.  Cyclists quite reasonably ignore it.

If it's a "proper" red circle round speed limit sign, it doesn't apply to cyclists, only motor vehicles.  If it's some other form of sign, then it's not legally enforceable against anyone. :D

(Although, park are generally covered by boiler-plate by-laws, so pretty much anything probably goes!)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 21 October, 2017, 01:33:38 pm
TBH, a more important issue is the recent installation of some of those evil bolt-on speed bumps (of a profile I wouldn't even consider riding over on anything but a suspended mountain bike) at one of the side entrances.  They've left a metre or so of gap at one side so we're back to the problem of creating conflict with pedestrians.

I can only assume they had trouble with speeding teletubbies.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 21 October, 2017, 01:56:45 pm
This morning. Moist. Windy. First day in longs since last winter, and ditto for gloves as opposed to mitts. The leaves are making a nice mess around all the fallen branches on my 'Riverside' park route, and the bit where I have to pump my legs slightly up a little rise sees my back tyre squirming.

I also wore a Magic Plastic Hat this morning, partly for the airborne-but-not-for-long debris, but mostly because it has a waterproof cover.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 October, 2017, 09:56:41 am
Reasonable ride to the station this morning, despite the half-hearted drizzle, and about a minute of proper rain.  Then zoomed from the station to work. 

Felt really old and stiff off the bike, but comfortable on it, which I can handle :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 23 October, 2017, 11:31:21 am
Lovely ride in this morning despite the wind, rain and tired legs.
Recently spent £400 at the LBS getting the bike serviced and fettled. MrsC commented that I could have bought a new bike for that. It feels as if I have.  :D :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Socks on 23 October, 2017, 03:29:11 pm
A commute to my former work[place for the first time since I left six months ago.  Six miles each way, cretin count 2.  First one down to incompetence (a close pass overtake).  Second one aggression / ignorance - a shout of 'get on the path' after I had taken the lane to go straight on at a mini roundabout.  Ironically half a mile later I saw two cyclists riding on the path. 

Maybe not surprising given this sort of driver behaviour, and people on bikes feeling intimidated by drivers.  But at the same time it seems to me that this just re-inforces that sort of ignorance and aggression when we do use the roads.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 25 October, 2017, 08:11:28 am
There and Back yesterday. 10.3 miles each way.
First time (since moving to the wrong side of the Trent) that I've not taken a car or train for some portion of either morning or evening commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 25 October, 2017, 08:35:50 am
Quote from: rower40 on 25 October, 2017, 08:11:28 am
There and Back yesterday. 10.3 miles each way.
First time (since moving to the wrong side of the Trent) that I've not taken a car or train for some portion of either morning or evening commute.

Yay!
*waves at Rower40*

I was thinking about you the other day when we were building the brio.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 25 October, 2017, 06:03:23 pm
I came off on thick leaf mulch going down a hill this morning. The bike went out from under me and I no have a sore right shoulder, tenderised right hip and some big rips in some of my favourite cycle shorts.

The bike seems to have come off ok, with the shifter being knocked round, front mudguard a bit knocked about and the rear light broken (but should glue back together)

I also managed to cut my left elbow but not damage the cycling jersey ??? As it's the same jersey I broke my arm in a few years ago I'm starting to distrust it, but it does say something about the durability of the Owayo YACF Jerseys.

I get the impression this is going to sting in the morning. Being cut up and unable to go into active areas won't make me popular at work right now either :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 25 October, 2017, 06:20:14 pm
I suppose that means chutney season is officially open...

GWS.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 25 October, 2017, 06:34:51 pm
I'm blaming Brian (and Ophelia)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 26 October, 2017, 08:09:46 am
GWS mcshroom.

It appears to be the season for offensive lights, I think the guy behind me was trying to use some sort of primitive thumb to flag down passing spaceships. FFS when your light is preventing me looking behind and you're 250m back I think you're overdoing it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 26 October, 2017, 08:28:28 am
Aten't that the troof, seems the same each year. I put it down to the new commuters learning the ropes. Maybe. I was Driving Mrs Ham last night (bit like Driving Miss Daisy only with more criticism) southbound along Woodford High Road and an oncoming cyclist (who may well have been headed up Epping New Road - a proper bit of shitty essex road to cycle  any time, cf DunRun) with two searchlights strapped to his bars and a frikkin' laser on his nut, waving around in the manner of head movement you see from a.... less experienced? cyclist. I thought, "someone soon is gonna learn him".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 26 October, 2017, 02:46:45 pm
I think I'm finally giving up, on trying to solve the squeaky left hand crank, on the commuter.  Over the last couple of weeks, I've tried almost everything, but I've come to the conclusion that the crank is distorted enough (but not visibly) that it's going to creak regardless of everything I can reasonably try. :-\

Whilst judicious use of a file on the crank tapers will probably work (inside, so not really a taper, but you know what I mean!) , I suspect it's going to be a lot faster to find the spare left hand crank, that I know that I have somewhere, rather than spend two weeks repeatedly adjusting the shape !

The noise has gone from irritating, to really really irritating, for 12 miles. :o  On the plus side, by pushing slightly harder on the left hand pedal, I can make a completely unignorable sound, that even the stupidest pedestrian can't fail to notice. :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 26 October, 2017, 04:20:20 pm
System crash meant my commute home was at 10:30PM: Traffic was a lot different.  Much lighter, less predictable and faster.
I guess I was also less predictable, I was in a really p1ssed off mood. Went through a couple of reds and got mad at some drivers before having a word with myself.

Stopping for chips was what calmed me down a bit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 27 October, 2017, 09:52:26 pm
Short sleeved jersey and shorts? At the fag end of October?  Bit of a treat for me that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 28 October, 2017, 10:39:54 am
Unsettling overtake on the way home last night: a truck pulled out sharply but only after it was level with, and inches from me. There was nothing coming the other way which might have stopped driver beginning manoeuvre earlier*. I suspect that the driver hadn't seen me until s/he was practically on top of me.

Tired? Poor eyesight? Distracted by something? Who knows.

Clean pants, please.

(*Because braking is rarely an option in this case ::-))

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SoreTween on 30 October, 2017, 07:35:58 pm
When putting clean cycling gear away at the weekend I glanced at my winter gloves and balaclava but decided it wouldn't be that cold for weeks yet.
This morning I almost picked up a 2nd jumper to wear but nah, it'll not be that cold.

This post perhaps belongs in the "I'm such a fecking div" thread.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CAMRAMan on 30 October, 2017, 08:18:02 pm
I stumbled across my winter bib tights yesterday, luckily. I also found my lobster claw goves and my fleece buff - when I got home! I saw my BCFC top lying next to the pile of washing and decided it wasn't too dirty/smelly to be a second layer this morning. That was a good move. 0.6C when I set out and frost on the garage roofs at the bottom of the garden told me it was going to be fresh out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 31 October, 2017, 10:01:48 am
Nippy this morning!  Managed to fight my lungs all the way to the station, then have a surprisingly fast short section in to work.

Got a meeting later somewhere new.  Hope I get there OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 31 October, 2017, 12:06:19 pm
Yesterday was my first commute after coming off last week. It was a little scary going downhill in the dark near trees but reasonably ok.

Today I used the hybrid though as my shoulder is still not 100% so I thought the uproght position might help. It's even slower than I remembered (though that may be the rider's fault)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 31 October, 2017, 05:58:43 pm
Lovely ride home tonight. There may have been a bit of a tail wind, both sets of temporary traffic lights were in my favour, and the roads seemed very quiet.
Not bad for the first dark ride of the winter (not that it's really dark at ten past five just yet).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SoreTween on 31 October, 2017, 07:32:21 pm
So much warmer today :-)
Cycled to the gym after work only to find I've lost my padlock again :( So I went for a gentle ride instead :-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 01 November, 2017, 09:06:27 am
Last night experienced the downside of running two Hope vision 1's, the originals, both lights cutout, fortunately a mate caught me up just at that point and I sat on his wheel for most of the way home, before playing musical cells with the rears to get enough juice for the remainder, must re-fit the dynamo.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 01 November, 2017, 02:36:41 pm
It's getting nippy out there.  I may need to start covering my knees soon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 01 November, 2017, 07:01:39 pm
I wore my longs today and a long sleeve jersey and I was glad I did, even for the trip home.  Sunrise was a bit of a non-event what with mist, but sunset was absolutely lovely.  Just a shame it was so bloody early.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jakob on 01 November, 2017, 09:47:43 pm
Going home yesterday. I'm on cyclepaths 90% of way and along it, it passes by the Science Museum.  There's a zebra crossing across the cycle path and in the last year or so, they've put in lots of warning signs to cyclists to slow down, including 'speed bumps', etc. Anyways. Pedestrians crossing and I stop. One kid stops and looks at me and as I don't move, starts running across...just as another numbty on a MTB comes screaming down the other direction and just manages to throw the brakes on and stops inches before the kid. (Who got the fright of his life).
I gave him a few choice words as a I passed by, but that was close!!!!.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 November, 2017, 11:20:18 am
Idiot!

Fortunately, I don't have many traffic interactions on my commute.  I started this morning feeling very weary, but, as has happened so many times before, a ride starting like that turned into a surprisingly swift time. 

Yesterday was the first day in more than a week that I managed all four sections of the commute on the bike.  I think that calls for some celebration :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: lahoski on 02 November, 2017, 12:25:49 pm
Showed off my sexy frog belly, replete in Rapha, for today's commute. It seemed to keep people at a reasonable overtaking distance. The plan was that commuting would help reduce the size of it, but maybe I should keep it fed with additional beer and crisps each evening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 02 November, 2017, 05:15:51 pm
Got moaned at by an unlit POB because my front light shone at him, the snowflake.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 02 November, 2017, 06:47:36 pm
Second day this week it's been sub-zero on part of my commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: telstarbox on 02 November, 2017, 06:51:31 pm
A good run in this morning, or so I thought.

Came out at hometime to find the back tyre flat, presumably a slow puncture. That's the first one for more than a year. I found a couple of sharp bits in the road surface of the tyre but they didn't appear to have got through to the inner (the tyre is a Kevlar one), so is ot possible the inner has just worn out over time?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 03 November, 2017, 01:25:12 pm
Recognised the 'tick tick ticking' from the back wheel as a puncture about to happen. On checking, the flint came out easily enough, but was probably big enough to have punctured the inner tube had I left it in place much longer.

 ;D

A driver on the opposite side flashed his headlights in a pattern meant (I think) to mimic my flashing LED. I suspect he was objecting to my flashing light.
Quote from: rogerzilla on 02 November, 2017, 05:15:51 pm
the snowflake.
I don't think it was a complaint that the light was too bright/in his eyes because the angle is set quite carefully to avoid that (except when the geography of the road causes the beam to be higher than normal, which wasn't the case here).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 03 November, 2017, 01:46:24 pm
Might have just been doing it 'for the lols', I suppose.

Though my general experience of bicycle lights is that even off-axis they often appear as an obnoxiously high-glare point source, simply because the lens area is so small.  Short of going back to Never Readies, I don't think you can win that one.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 03 November, 2017, 06:17:58 pm
So either our lights too bright or we’re not bright enough! Absolute tools!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Duckfoot1606 on 04 November, 2017, 10:39:57 am
Quote from: Paul on 03 November, 2017, 01:25:12 pm
Recognised the 'tick tick ticking' from the back wheel as a puncture about to happen. On checking, the flint came out easily enough, but was probably big enough to have punctured the inner tube had I left it in place much longer.

 ;D

A driver on the opposite side flashed his headlights in a pattern meant (I think) to mimic my flashing LED. I suspect he was objecting to my flashing light.
Quote from: rogerzilla on 02 November, 2017, 05:15:51 pm
the snowflake.
I don't think it was a complaint that the light was too bright/in his eyes because the angle is set quite carefully to avoid that (except when the geography of the road causes the beam to be higher than normal, which wasn't the case here).

Think positive, he saw you and I guess that’s what we want to achieve. I had a walker moan at me recently when I rang my bell to warn of my approach (from behind), she complained I scared her. There are times you just can’t win

A
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 04 November, 2017, 01:44:01 pm
Quote from: Duckfoot1606 on 04 November, 2017, 10:39:57 am
Think positive, he saw you and I guess that’s what we want to achieve.
Indeed.

Quote from: Duckfoot1606 on 04 November, 2017, 10:39:57 am
I had a walker moan at me recently when I rang my bell to warn of my approach (from behind), she complained I scared her. There are times you just can’t win
A
Yep. Shared use paths. It doesn't matter whether it's my friendliest 'hello' or my loveliest bell, some people will jump. I think it's just surprise. My best approach to this is freewheeling on the bike with the loudest pawls/ratchets in the freehub. But even that isn't foolproof. Some people wear earphones that almost require you to nudge them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 04 November, 2017, 01:49:57 pm
Quote from: Paul on 04 November, 2017, 01:44:01 pm
Quote from: Duckfoot1606 on 04 November, 2017, 10:39:57 am
I had a walker moan at me recently when I rang my bell to warn of my approach (from behind), she complained I scared her. There are times you just can’t win
A
Yep. Shared use paths. It doesn't matter whether it's my friendliest 'hello' or my loveliest bell, some people will jump. I think it's just surprise. My best approach to this is freewheeling on the bike with the loudest pawls/ratchets in the freehub. But even that isn't foolproof. Some people wear earphones that almost require you to nudge them.

There's a section near me that's got "Share with care, keep dogs on leads, cyclists ring your bell" (or words to that effect) signs.  Those are good, because it means that pedestrians don't perceive the bell-ringing as aggressive, but complying with instructions.  Obviously they don't always hear it, and some will still startle.

In general, I prefer mechanical noises to bell-ringing, particularly at close range.  Sometimes I'll flick a brake lever or deliberately crunch a gear change.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tigerbiten on 04 November, 2017, 03:08:45 pm
Quote from: Kim on 04 November, 2017, 01:49:57 pm
In general, I prefer mechanical noises to bell-ringing, particularly at close range.  Sometimes I'll flick a brake lever or deliberately crunch a gear change.
If I'm going out of my way to make a noise then ..........

It'sig chainring + HSD in overdrive mode + Rohloff in the low half of the gears, pref 4th-7th.

The whole drive then resonates and sounds like an electric motor.
Don't normally run in that mode as I'm using every epicyclic gear I've got and the extra drag is a killer in the long run.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 06 November, 2017, 08:32:21 am
Definitely a bit brisk this morning.  I had to find long tights, a fleece jacket, gloves ...

I would have worn my winter MTB shoes too, but forgot that they've got SPD cleats on them, whereas the commuter has egg beaters.  My feet have almost warmed back up!  I need to swap pedals and cleats around.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 06 November, 2017, 01:20:17 pm
I actually like getting my cold weather gear out. I really like having the right stuff for all weathers. It's taken me years to get it right, so it's nice to get to use it all. My preferred fleece is probably 20 years old, maybe more, but it works very well in combination with my other bits and pieces. In truth, it's not as warm as it used to be, but I have worked around that with improved supplementary layers.

I don't think I can imagine life without it.

Anyway, lovely sunny ride in. And isn't it funny how cold weather (or wet, or windy, or any) seems to make cars go slower? I remember someone (here) saying "People using their cars like umbrellas". It's so true, but not just for rain. They use them like a whole wardrobe.

And don't get me started on weather people going on about scraping windscreens as though there's no other way to travel.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 06 November, 2017, 01:43:50 pm
Quote from: Paul on 06 November, 2017, 01:20:17 pm
I remember someone (here) saying "People using their cars like umbrellas". It's so true, but not just for rain. They use them like a whole wardrobe.

Wasn't it the guy who designed Stevenage's cycle network who said it originally? Or something very much like it. IIRC he also observed 'motorists have no logic', not a lot seems to have changed in 40 odd years. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 06 November, 2017, 01:47:51 pm
It's something I've said on here before, but I'm not going to claim it as an original idea.

A few years ago Birmingham had an ill-fated[1] Boris-car scheme, and one of their advertising posters specifically compared the hire cars to an umbrella.


[1] It was no cheaper than a taxi, used Smart cars that were too small to usefully carry stuff, and they hadn't anticipated the "strong culture of private motoring".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 06 November, 2017, 02:06:40 pm
 :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 06 November, 2017, 06:53:54 pm
"Claxton was chief engineer of Stevenage for the ten years until 1972. He poured scorn on those who chose motor cars rather than bicycles, complaining that motorists “seem to have a problem with their logic” because “they use their cars as shopping baskets; or use them as overcoats.”
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 06 November, 2017, 08:24:48 pm
Quote from: Mr Larrington on 06 November, 2017, 06:53:54 pm
"Claxton was chief engineer of Stevenage for the ten years until 1972. He poured scorn on those who chose motor cars rather than bicycles, complaining that motorists “seem to have a problem with their logic” because “they use their cars as shopping baskets; or use them as overcoats.”
Excellent. Thank you Mr L.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 07 November, 2017, 08:32:47 am
Quote from: Paul on 06 November, 2017, 01:20:17 pm
I actually like getting my cold weather gear out. I really like having the right stuff for all weathers. It's taken me years to get it right, so it's nice to get to use it all. My preferred fleece is probably 20 years old, maybe more, but it works very well in combination with my other bits and pieces. In truth, it's not as warm as it used to be, but I have worked around that with improved supplementary layers. ...

True enough, but I prefer it when I'm getting my hot weather gear out. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 07 November, 2017, 11:18:09 am
I've wimped out this week :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 07 November, 2017, 07:31:01 pm
Very wet trip home.  This is when a coaster brake is a godsend.  Amazing number of dog-walking drongoes all over the psyclepaths despite the rain...and bike bells don't work when wet (the water drops literally damp the sound).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 09 November, 2017, 06:53:42 pm
Three really nasty close passes this morning - about a foot in one case - at speed.  WTF!?  That's more close passes in one trip than in the previous 18 months.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 10 November, 2017, 09:07:19 am
Whichever authority authorised the overnight construction of security banners on the embankment cycle highway need fucking shooting. There's no signage to let you know that some twats have put them there overnight.

They've done it before and removed it so it only to protect Theresa May from the baying mobs so hopefully it'll be gone tonight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cygnet on 10 November, 2017, 01:16:25 pm
^ Remembrance Sunday innit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 10 November, 2017, 01:55:22 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 09 November, 2017, 06:53:42 pm
Three really nasty close passes this morning - about a foot in one case - at speed.  WTF!?  That's more close passes in one trip than in the previous 18 months.
Had you deployed a cloaking device?

It's horrible when it happens once. I have to fight the urge to ride in the gutter, and I'm usually a bundle of nerves for a bit. Three of them would probably have me walking.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 10 November, 2017, 02:54:05 pm
Quote from: cygnet on 10 November, 2017, 01:16:25 pm
^ Remembrance Sunday innit.

Fair enough but they were no signs, no warnings and a lot of cyclists were speeding and slowing down erratically to slip into a single file procession. Really badly thought out  as well lacking in foresight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 10 November, 2017, 06:31:18 pm
Quote from: Paul on 10 November, 2017, 01:55:22 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 09 November, 2017, 06:53:42 pm
Three really nasty close passes this morning - about a foot in one case - at speed.  WTF!?  That's more close passes in one trip than in the previous 18 months.
Had you deployed a cloaking device?

It's horrible when it happens once. I have to fight the urge to ride in the gutter, and I'm usually a bundle of nerves for a bit. Three of them would probably have me walking.
When it happens which is very rare I'm usually too busy being enraged to the point of apoplexy for there to be any time to be scared.  I'm lucky, nearly all the drivers on my route give me breathing space, sometimes they pass a bit closer than I'd like, but not usually out and out bloody dangerous.

Cloaking device? If you can call 3 very bright tail lamps all running in "maximum attention" mode and a hideous hi-vis rucksack cover with reflective tabs all over it inconspicuous then yeah I was "cloaked".  :)

Strange how the, I don't know how many, other, but it was $LOTS, drivers managed to give me 3 or more feet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 10 November, 2017, 07:07:14 pm
TBH, I don't think close passes are a result of drivers failing to see you.  They've seen you and correctly judged the exact amount of room that probably won't result in their vehicle actually touching you.

Ignorance, sure.  Malice, occasionally.  Failure to anticipate, quite often.  But not so much failure to see.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cygnet on 10 November, 2017, 07:13:22 pm
Quote from: TigaSefi on 10 November, 2017, 02:54:05 pm
Fair enough but they were no signs, no warnings and a lot of cyclists were speeding and slowing down erratically to slip into a single file procession. Really badly thought out  as well lacking in foresight.

Oh I agree, and not an awful lot of reflective stuff on (i.e. none) considering they're solid black pointy bits in the middle of the path.

Lord Mayors parade is tomorrow too so at least they should be gone on Monday
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: markcjagar on 10 November, 2017, 09:17:22 pm
Quote from: Paul on 10 November, 2017, 01:55:22 pm
It's horrible when it happens once. I have to fight the urge to ride in the gutter, and I'm usually a bundle of nerves for a bit. Three of them would probably have me walking.

Christ, I must be a tad too used to close passes.....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 10 November, 2017, 10:12:20 pm
Going straight through a roundabout, and driver approaching rab from my left, decided they wouldn't stop but 'anticipate' my speed (badly), so nearly taking my back wheel out.   Have to say this happens when I'm in the car too, they can't possibly just slow up... and wait.

Anyway, started wear silk liners under mitts to avoid wearing full gloves for the time being.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 11 November, 2017, 06:45:22 am
Quote from: Kim on 10 November, 2017, 07:07:14 pm
TBH, I don't think close passes are a result of drivers failing to see you.  They've seen you and correctly judged the exact amount of room that probably won't result in their vehicle actually touching you.

Ignorance, sure.  Malice, occasionally.  Failure to anticipate, quite often.  But not so much failure to see.

Definitely. That's one of the reasons why London cabbies are some of the worst - they are very good at knowing how big their vehicle is and getting as close as possible.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 11 November, 2017, 09:06:52 pm
Quote from: Kim
TBH, I don't think close passes are a result of drivers failing to see you.  They've seen you and correctly judged the exact amount of room that probably won't result in their vehicle actually touching you.

Ignorance, sure.  Malice, occasionally.  Failure to anticipate, quite often.  But not so much failure to see.
Oh yeah, no doubt about that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 13 November, 2017, 07:50:42 am
It should have been an uneventful early commute in, but I had one of those "two punctures in quick succession" annoyances.  On Friday evening, I had a slowish puncture, shortly before I arrived home, so managed to just get there.  Luckily, I remembered it last night, so replaced the inner tube.  I searched the inner tube for the hole, and the tyre for some debris, but couldn't find either (although the inner did very slowly deflate), so I just hoped it was something small and sharp, which had been left on the road.  About 2 miles into my commute this morning ... whoosh ... rapid deflation.  I was worried that it was whatever I had failed to find on the previous evening, but it was a damned great big piece of glass, about 7 or 8mm long, very very clearly stuck in the tyre.  That's the second time in succession, where I've had two clearly unrelated visitations just a few miles apart.

On the plus side, I had my first totally squeak free commute in over a month.  It's taken me a long time to work out, that both the left hand crank was loose and the left hand pedal bearing were wearing out.  They both squeaked, and at almost the same frequency, which at least explains that I wasn't utterly failing to solve the crank squeak problem. :D  The cheap Egg Beater pedal would have cost almost as much to repair as to replace, so I just screwed a new pedal on, which took about 20 seconds !
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 13 November, 2017, 12:24:10 pm
^ Tim-o, I seem to be mirroring your troubles.

Yesterday, having pumped up the-bloody-slow-puncture-but-it'll-do- front tyre again for a bike-ride yesterday, things gathered pace a few miles away, so I sat down on a bench to repair it ("Finally!" my bike says). 3 punctures repaired.

Tried to fettle the bloody squeaky rear disc brake, and which initially, I did think, successfully. It wasn't of course, but I'll look at this evening – if I can be arsed. Each revolution is squeak, squeak, squeak, squeak, squeak, squeak . . .  abates somewhat . . . then . . .  relevant silence – brilliant! . . . squeak, squeak, squeak, squeak . . . "bollocks."
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 14 November, 2017, 05:33:12 pm
I hate psyclepaths.  Only just managed to stop when a pedestrian walked straight into my path tonight (wasn't going fast but brakes were poor in the rain) then had to avoid an unlit MOTORCYCLE being ridden through one of the pikier estates.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 15 November, 2017, 07:54:37 am
Yesterday evening, another puncture in the rear tyre, which was very slow, so I managed to pump the tyre up halfway home, and just continue.

When I got home, I pumped it up hard, to see if it would stay up, and immediately heard a hiss, probably from the valve.  Further inspection, revealed that the rim was coming away from the wheel.  :o

I think the rim issue is independent of the slow puncture, but I had to abandon cycling today because I didn't have a suitable spare wheel available.

At least I noticed the rim, mainly because the tyre was pumped up, before it failed catastrophically.  When I've had rims fail previously, I've been lucky, but I'd prefer to not have it happen at high(ish) speed !

A pile of bits ordered, so I can change the wheel out, and change inner tube/tyre if necessary.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: delap on 15 November, 2017, 08:43:42 am
Found one of those bottle cage tool boxes in Ashton Court this morning.  If you think you know whose it is, let me know
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 15 November, 2017, 10:31:49 am
Low speed spill this morning, turning right out out of a T (from stationary) and the bike just slid out on the damp & greasy road. Sprung to my feet and stepped on to pavement to put the chain back on by the time the 1st car in the queue came past, slowed and asked if I was OK. I was. Bike has a scuff on the handlebar end now.
Annoying and embarrassing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 15 November, 2017, 01:33:24 pm
I feel your pain, sg37409. I did similar last year on a spot of ice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DuncanM on 15 November, 2017, 07:19:42 pm
Driving behind a cyclist this evening - he indicated right, so I hung back nicely, and as he turned across the road he lost his back wheel and lowsided. Greasy cold road, and box junction lines on it, so leaning the bike over carried risks... I stopped, but he got up straight away and said he was OK, so I carried on. Seems like just the sort of weather that allows these accidents to happen.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 15 November, 2017, 07:48:18 pm
Trying to cycle up the hill to The Asbestos Palace the other day. Had to give up, even with my full weight on the back wheel there wasn't enough traction to propel me up the incline. Sadly no one around to witness my impressive wheel spinning.

Coming down is also fun this time of year. Very, very gingerly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Charlie Polecat on 15 November, 2017, 09:43:00 pm
Quote from: DuncanM on 15 November, 2017, 07:19:42 pm
Driving behind a cyclist this evening - he indicated right, so I hung back nicely, and as he turned across the road he lost his back wheel and lowsided. Greasy cold road, and box junction lines on it, so leaning the bike over carried risks... I stopped, but he got up straight away and said he was OK, so I carried on. Seems like just the sort of weather that allows these accidents to happen.

I feel your pain and sympathise. 82 degrees today, cooler than yesterday anyway.  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 15 November, 2017, 09:53:42 pm
Quote from: sg37409 on 15 November, 2017, 10:31:49 am
Low speed spill this morning, turning right out out of a T (from stationary) and the bike just slid out on the damp & greasy road. Sprung to my feet and stepped on to pavement to put the chain back on by the time the 1st car in the queue came past, slowed and asked if I was OK. I was. Bike has a scuff on the handlebar end now.
Annoying and embarrassing.

Ah, not just me then (https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=10.msg2226867#msg2226867).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 15 November, 2017, 10:29:33 pm
Quote from: Kim on 15 November, 2017, 09:53:42 pm
Quote from: sg37409 on 15 November, 2017, 10:31:49 am
Low speed spill this morning...
Annoying and embarrassing.

Ah, not just me then (https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=10.msg2226867#msg2226867).

Bad luck. I was quite glad of my flat pedals today, as the slide started I was already putting my feet down
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: telstarbox on 17 November, 2017, 10:47:08 am
Saw my first velomobile IRL on the commute today, on Loampit Vale in Lewisham! (Hi if you're reading this.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 17 November, 2017, 11:17:30 am
Beautiful sunrise on this morning's commute. Did I have a camera? No. No, I did not  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 17 November, 2017, 12:09:11 pm
The motorised traffic was having to detour around this bridge on my ride in this am:

http://www.derbytelegraph.co.uk/news/incredible-pictures-show-how-bridge-790326

The guys on the bridge (local authority highways, I imagine) let me cross with the bike. No idea what the cause was, but it's at the bottom of a steep-ish hill (which has often been part of the Pie Run). If it was icy last night, that might explain it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Stretch on 17 November, 2017, 12:11:40 pm
Spinning silently alongside an owl following the roadside hedgeline for 1/2mile in the clear pre-dawn light.

Brought back to reality by a close pass a minute later.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 17 November, 2017, 01:47:49 pm
Quote from: Stretch on 17 November, 2017, 12:11:40 pm
Spinning silently alongside an owl following the roadside hedgeline for 1/2mile in the clear pre-dawn light.

That would be pretty special.   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Asterix, the former Gaul. on 17 November, 2017, 08:07:36 pm
Quote from: Pingu on 17 November, 2017, 11:17:30 am
Beautiful sunrise on this morning's commute. Did I have a camera? No. No, I did not  :(

Wot no mobile?

Have just got to the stage where, when I think I have no camera, I remember my telephone is photographically empowered now.  Before it is too late instead of hours later..
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: telstarbox on 17 November, 2017, 08:08:40 pm
Cold today but new gloves made it bearable.

On the way home a 4x4 driver found it necessary to drift across into the advisory, but narrow, cycle lane when there was plenty of space towards the painted centre line. A couple of gentle taps on their bonnet at the next lights and order was restored.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 20 November, 2017, 08:14:27 am
Quote from: Paul on 17 November, 2017, 12:09:11 pm
The motorised traffic was having to detour around this bridge on my ride in this am:

http://www.derbytelegraph.co.uk/news/incredible-pictures-show-how-bridge-790326

The guys on the bridge (local authority highways, I imagine) let me cross with the bike. No idea what the cause was, but it's at the bottom of a steep-ish hill (which has often been part of the Pie Run). If it was icy last night, that might explain it.

 :o

How did (s)he manage to hit both sides of that bridge?  It's suggestive of going too fast, since it's hard to see how you could have enough kinetic energy left after the first collision, to cause so much damage effectively rebounding off of a stone wall. ???


Quote from: Pingu on 17 November, 2017, 11:17:30 am
Beautiful sunrise on this morning's commute. Did I have a camera? No. No, I did not  :(

These days, I always carry a waterproof camera in the back pocket of my jersey (as well as the camera on my smart phone), and I have the GPS turned on, so it'll have an instant fix (and orientation!) added to the EXIF data of the image.  This has the side effect of recording the route of every commute, admittedly only with a 30 second time resolution.


My commute this morning was surprisingly good, considering it was raining when I left.  The rain stopped after a couple of minutes, so I just had to deal with the wet and inevitably crowded roads, filled with car drivers who seem to find wet roads an almost insurmountable problem, regardless of the UK's roads spending a significant proportion of the year like that.

I'm always amazed how much busier the roads get, when it's wet.  I guess a lot of motorcyclists and cyclists switch to a more covered form of transport, as well as the people who can't conceive of walking for 2 minutes in the rain, to the local railway station (and similar).

All that aside, it was good to get back to cycle commuting, after 3 days on public transport last week, waiting for replacement bits to arrive, so I could put a new rear wheel on the bike.  I replaced the wheel, swapped the freewheel over (after I managed to find the correct removal tool!), put a new "Specialized All Condition Armadillo Elite II Folding Tyre" on, because the old one had enough wear and small slits in it that replacement was not very far away anyway, and a pair of new brake pads.  The old brake pads were theoretically reusable, but worn enough that they'd probably act a bit oddly on a different rim profile.  Cheap enough to replace, and I had to adjust them anyway, so wtf.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 20 November, 2017, 06:35:27 pm
On the ride home. I'm pootling along the cycle path when a chap on a much lighter road bike goes past on the road.
Nowt wrong with that, thinks I, it's perfectly legal and he's going much faster than me and faster than would be possible on the path.
It was only when he got too far in front for me to have a chance of catching him that I noticed he had no rear lights at all.
I suspect something had gone wrong rather than that he was an idiot.
Hope he got home OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: telstarbox on 20 November, 2017, 07:11:26 pm
It can be worth asking if they're aware - lights can fall off without you realising especially at the Poundland end of the scale.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 20 November, 2017, 07:17:42 pm
I would have done if I could have caught him. Looking at the rest of his kit I'm sure it was a mistake or failure as opposed to idiocy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: markcjagar on 22 November, 2017, 07:25:20 pm
50mph gusts & heavy rain do not equal a fun commute. plenty of shitty driving as well. most do not consider the concept of driving to the conditions.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 22 November, 2017, 07:27:44 pm
I reckon their consideration is "this weather is shite, let's drive home faster".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jakob on 23 November, 2017, 03:31:55 am
I also had the pleasure of riding home in the worst rain ever.  Several places there was inches of standing water..and I came home virtually bone dry. Small damp patch on my big toe and another on my t-shirt, as I forgot to zip up my jacket pocket. Love my new wet-weather gear.
(Well, only the trousers are new, but they have completed the package).
Some ancient Altura booties
Marmot Minimalist Jacket. (Used for everything, cycling, hiking, snowboarding).
Kuhl Jetstream trousers...also intended for everything. Picked them on a Seattle trip 2 weeks ago and while they were pricey ($180) they have already proven their worth. Even on a relatively warm day like today (~14C on the way in), I still didn't overheat.
Some generic softshell gloves from Costco. Not really waterproof, but they keep it out for long enough.
Visibility issues aside, I actually had a really cozy commute :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 23 November, 2017, 10:25:32 pm
I had the worst near-miss incident yet yesterday.

On my ride home, I take small back roads.
At one point, at a 4-ways crossroads, I cross a busy main road.
I often have to wait a minute or 2 till the busy cross-traffic abates, before I can cross over and continue on the minor road.

I was stopped on the minor road, waiting to cross, in the middle of the only LH lane.  There was no other traffic on the minor road.
The cross-traffic was flying past.
Then, one of the fast-moving cross-traffic cars from my left turns right towards me, up the minor road.
Only, it turns up the wrong side of the road.
It turns early, and heads directly towards me at speed, up the wrong side of the road.
It's not a case of 'cutting the corner', it's *way* more than that.

I may have deployed a large amount of Foul Language, and when they saw me, they swerved to avoid me by centimetres.
But due to their road position, they had to swerve to *my* left; into the verge.
Not onto their side of the road.
We passed to each other's left.

For my part, I had to move 2 feet to my right to avoid getting hit.
Not being Danny McCaskill, I could only do this with a swift sprint forward with the helm hard a'lee.
This took me forward out onto the busy road I was waiting to cross, and caused other traffic to swerve and beep.

FFS.


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 23 November, 2017, 10:36:03 pm
Yikes!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 23 November, 2017, 10:53:20 pm
Ruddy Norah  :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 23 November, 2017, 11:28:41 pm
Surprisingly little motorized stupidity today on my first cycle up to the mothership and back in a while. It worries me after a while, like they may be saving it up. I did see not one but two cars try to drive up the Blackfriars Road segregated cycle bit. Much laughs were being had, I'm sure. Minicab followed by bumper-sniffing white van. They'd figured it out by the time I'd unlocked and loaded up my bike.

I nearly cycled into a roadside post on the way back. Cresting a steep hill. Modern headlights on approaching cars. OH MY FUCKING RETINAS. It's quite a hairy descent at the best of times (Succomb's Hill, the final resting place of a million wing mirrors).

I did get home and have to walk back down the hill to pick up some crushed polystyrene that drivers had evidently been driving over rather than stop for a moment to at least move it off the road (and maybe pick up and take home to throw in their bins). Nah, just keep driving over it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Diver300 on 24 November, 2017, 10:51:02 am
Quote from: Feanor on 23 November, 2017, 10:25:32 pm
I had the worst near-miss incident yet yesterday.

On my ride home, I take small back roads.
At one point, at a 4-ways crossroads, I cross a busy main road.
I often have to wait a minute or 2 till the busy cross-traffic abates, before I can cross over and continue on the minor road.

I was stopped on the minor road, waiting to cross, in the middle of the only LH lane.  There was no other traffic on the minor road.
The cross-traffic was flying past.
Then, one of the fast-moving cross-traffic cars from my left turns right towards me, up the minor road.
Only, it turns up the wrong side of the road.
It turns early, and heads directly towards me at speed, up the wrong side of the road.
It's not a case of 'cutting the corner', it's *way* more than that.

I may have deployed a large amount of Foul Language, and when they saw me, they swerved to avoid me by centimetres.
But due to their road position, they had to swerve to *my* left; into the verge.
Not onto their side of the road.
We passed to each other's left.

For my part, I had to move 2 feet to my right to avoid getting hit.
Not being Danny McCaskill, I could only do this with a swift sprint forward with the helm hard a'lee.
This took me forward out onto the busy road I was waiting to cross, and caused other traffic to swerve and beep.

FFS.

I've been waiting in a situation similar to that, but in town, where the driver chose to go to my left rather than take the long way round.

See also going to the right of keep left islands for overtaking bikes.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 24 November, 2017, 12:22:08 pm
Quote from: Diver300 on 24 November, 2017, 10:51:02 am
...
See also going to the right of keep left islands for overtaking bikes.

I had a car do that to me a few years ago, just before a junction where a police car was waiting to pull out.

Cue blue lights.  I didn't laugh at all, oh no ... ;D

It was a surprisingly pleasant commute in this morning.  Little wind to speak of, dry roads, a tiny smattering of rain that didn't manage to significantly make the road wet, and very few idiots around (motorised, pedestrian or cyclist).  I doubt that my way home, on a Friday evening, will be as benign!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 27 November, 2017, 02:09:42 pm
I was on the commute today!  Well, for a teeny-tiny part of it.  Breaking myself in slowly :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: markcjagar on 27 November, 2017, 05:55:41 pm
Some fuck sprayed me with windscreen wash on my way home tonight.  :-X
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 28 November, 2017, 08:29:16 am
I had a slight issue just before the half-way point of my journey into work.

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/cycling/small.php?size=400&file=PB282258_crop_adj.jpg) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/cycling/PB282258_crop_adj.jpg)
Some assembly required

Luckily, I have a spare pedal and the large Allen key needed, easily available at home.  Unluckily, I don't routinely carry that with me, so will have to tube and tram my way home this evening.  After cycling 7 miles of my commute, having to pull away gingerly from junctions, so that I don't get it wrong and smack the pedal axle into my leg (DAHIKT!), I think it's best to avoid another 12 miles home, in a similar fashion.

Other than that, the commute was relatively benign, no more than the usual number of idiots, and only about 10% slower.  This tells you a lot about how little difference cycling particularly fast or slow, makes to the overall trip duration.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 28 November, 2017, 01:13:10 pm
Bad luck TimO.

Quite enjoyed my commute today but was happier when it was over: it was pretty cold and started raining as I got near the office.


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 30 November, 2017, 08:55:20 am
Ran out of front brake pads last night, what a ruddy racket, fortunately I carry a spare set but a dim corner of of an unlit green space in Moss Side probably wasn't the best place to change them. There are some interesting characters about.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 30 November, 2017, 09:03:22 am
Snobes!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 30 November, 2017, 09:31:15 am
Quote from: Pingu on 30 November, 2017, 09:03:22 am
Snobes!

Moi?  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 30 November, 2017, 10:39:07 am
Feanor Towers, 0730 today:

(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4565/37852316715_8c565d2fdf_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/ZET21g)
Morning commute (https://flic.kr/p/ZET21g) by Ron Lowe (https://www.flickr.com/photos/62966413@N04/), on Flickr
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 30 November, 2017, 10:48:35 am
Very cool. Are you working on the basis that a fresh fall of snow will be easily cut through with thin tyres (and that there will therefore be no hidden ice) or have you got studded 700cs on there ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 30 November, 2017, 11:03:36 am
No studs (yet! ).
I'm relying on remaining on main roads where the treatment and traffic have left the road wet and slushy.
I'm not really riding on either the snow or ice.
The tricky bit is getting from my front door down to the main road.

But you are correct that fresh snow is actually OK to ride through, so long as there's no hard packed base or ice below it.  But it's not easy to see that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 30 November, 2017, 12:47:44 pm
Quote from: Si S on 30 November, 2017, 09:31:15 am
Quote from: Pingu on 30 November, 2017, 09:03:22 am
Snobes!

Moi?  ???

Non - see Feanor's pic ^^^
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 30 November, 2017, 01:21:58 pm
No sno for me but I was wondering why I do this when I was riding straight into the blinding low sun on ice. Thank God for Schwalbe Winters!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 30 November, 2017, 04:41:58 pm
I'm trying to construct regular excuses for taking the bike into town as I'm getting hardly any riding done and resent the need to drive a trip of 2km so often. Of course I'm tacking on a 20km ride out into the country first which is glorious - grand vistas, spectacular wildlife, forests and groves. Also the pleasure is undiluted by the fact that the traffic is light and the overtakes are wide.

And then there's the few hundred metres of town riding. Good grief! The last time I met such a concentration of abjectly poor driving was on a Christmas Eve in Lewisham some time in the late eighties. There's not the aggression of south London but when it comes to urban cyclists, for a population that is so aware of cyclists on the open road, the mindset of the local drivers in this corner of France is just bizarre. I've witnessed it repeatedly while walking and driving in town, it's as if, at the sight of a cyclist the decision making process just falls apart, it's like they're trying to avoid looking at what they're afraid of crashing into while not thinking of elephants.

I haven't exported London cycling expectations and 'techniques' to rural France and so far I've been able to stay out of the way or draw people's attention to the matter at hand when necessary, plus any collision is likely to be very minor, it's just worrying that the response to cyclists is so consistently random. Mind you, my response of singing out "Cluster fuck" to the tune of the Hallelujah Chorus as two drivers turned into each other when confronted by the prospect of an oncoming cyclist with priority struck me as being pretty random as well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jakob on 04 December, 2017, 11:57:42 pm
My chain broke as I dismounted at work!. I knew it was way overdue. I bought a new chain for it last year, but that ended up on my BMX and it's been making noises for a while.
Much to my surprise, the nearby bike shop, which mostly deals with renting bikes to tourist, was surprisingly well stocked and had 2 brands of 1/8" chains, 1 generic and a SRAM PC1. I picked the SRAM.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Asterix, the former Gaul. on 05 December, 2017, 02:34:12 pm
Chains simply shouldn't break IMO.  I know they do, but I have a chain that is nearly 14 years old on a 9-speed.  It's been a very well used bike, especially for long slogs in the hills, incl. a Raid Pyrennean. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 05 December, 2017, 04:54:06 pm
Quote from: asterix on 05 December, 2017, 02:34:12 pm
Chains simply shouldn't break IMO.  I know they do, but I have a chain that is nearly 14 years old on a 9-speed.  It's been a very well used bike, especially for long slogs in the hills, incl. a Raid Pyrennean.

Can't be that well used, if the chain's 14 years old.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jakob on 05 December, 2017, 07:33:55 pm
Quote from: asterix on 05 December, 2017, 02:34:12 pm
Chains simply shouldn't break IMO.  I know they do, but I have a chain that is nearly 14 years old on a 9-speed.  It's been a very well used bike, especially for long slogs in the hills, incl. a Raid Pyrennean.

It was the locking joint and it looked like the retaining bolt had snapped.  It's been making noises (at the joint) for a while, which I happily ignored, whilst meaning to buy a new chain.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 05 December, 2017, 08:29:36 pm
Got micro-close passed by a chap today and I asked that he leave more room. I'm pretty quick away from the lights / choose my route through traffic well and found myself ahead of him.

Repeat. Close pass, request to keep further away, especially when there was absolutely nothing outside of him and we were in an empty bus lane.

And repeat, except this time I used FFS as an exclamation and was a little more forceful in my request. Nice chap following up behind pulled alongside and congratulated me on taking the nobber to task.

At the lights by Newington butts he started whinging and nice chap intervened fairly firmly.

(Pointing to nobber.) "You're wrong."
(Pointing to me.) "He's right."
(Looking back at nobber.) "You've been passing people far too close all the way along here."

Nobber.  "What are you ?  Some sort of self-appointed arbitrator ?"

Nobbers don't know when to keep their mouths shut.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peat on 05 December, 2017, 09:21:11 pm
Had a close call today.

I had the lane to myself on green, pedestrians started crossing (at a crossing, but on red) I started dinging my bell like mad, nearly all stopped. Except 1. He strode out into the road, i shot for the gap behind him, he saw me and stopped/tried to go back. All the brakes. Somehow made a LHT with pannier do an endo and I just grazed him with my shoulder.

peds man....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: markcjagar on 06 December, 2017, 07:48:51 pm
Back wheel slipped on something greasy whilst taking a roundabout at speed on the way in this morning, caught it but oh so close to going down

and I nearly got hit (at considerable speed) by a motorist who doesn't know how to roundabout on my way home tonight.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 07 December, 2017, 09:14:54 am
Proper Mancunian today, forgot about the flooded bit at the bottom of the dip in Irlam, just about managed to avoid a swim.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 07 December, 2017, 01:03:22 pm
I used my mtb today. I wanted wide bars in case of gusts, and fatter tyres in case of off-roading (there is a stretch where trees often fall in strong winds, necessitating a bit of cross-country) or deep puddles with bumps in them.

A small faff to transfer the bagman to the mtb, and remember to pack a 26" tube, and fit lights, only to find that it would all have been fine on the 700c bike, but I didn't know that when I set off.

Had to remember the wider bars when filtering, other than that, uneventful.

I wonder what the homeward journey has in store? Last I heard, it was going to get arctic this afternoon...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 07 December, 2017, 07:22:34 pm
I don't much rate this getting older lark.  Over an hour work-bound and although it was a side/head wind it wasn't particularly difficult to cope with.  A handful of years ago I wouldn't even have noticed it.  *Sigh*
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 08 December, 2017, 05:54:33 pm
Bit blizzardy* this morning.









*Just a slight exaggeration. There was wind and there was snow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 08 December, 2017, 06:38:45 pm
Yes, the SNO mandated my alternative all-main-road route which is clogged up with gridlocked cars.
So slow going, weaving in and out of stationary traffic.

A minor off on the lunchtime loop because I attempted the Westhill Cycle Path initially.
This was silly.
Back onto the main road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 08 December, 2017, 11:25:49 pm
Walked the last coupla hundred metres or so home, 'cos ice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 09 December, 2017, 11:10:08 am
Yeah, it was bloody cold.  Left office late and Friday night along Princes street was absolutely packed with the Xmas market and part goers.  Great atmosphere
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 09 December, 2017, 03:16:23 pm
The light snowfall yesterday morning motivated me to go offroad. Wonderful, crisp, sunny (and muddy) ride in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nethypete on 10 December, 2017, 07:05:39 am
Quote from: Pingu on 08 December, 2017, 11:25:49 pm
Walked the last coupla hundred metres or so home, 'cos ice.

On studded tyre bike for Thursday and Friday commutes .....board meeting cancelled 'cos of snow. They should get bikes!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 11 December, 2017, 08:27:37 am
Another one on the studs here - lots of black ice about and got told I was 'braver man me on that thing' by a guy clinging to a gate post opposite the drive. The only thing you have to remember is just how treacherous it is underfoot when you stop.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 11 December, 2017, 10:42:00 am
Better than expected this morning. Even our untreated street was rideable due a fresh sprinkling of snow over the ice. The rest of the roads to work were clear.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 11 December, 2017, 11:11:19 am
No studs, but my standard mtb tyres were up to it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 11 December, 2017, 07:45:42 pm
Another Main Road commute on account of the SNO, which was slow on account of being held up by large groups of selfish slow road users, sometimes 2 abreast, not getting out of my way.
Do You Know Who I Am?


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 12 December, 2017, 01:27:05 am
Nasty nasty on the way in to work tonight. Left the house at 2000 hrs, and didn't ride the first 100 yards to the main road as it was sheet ice. Light snow falling, but that wasn't the problem. I stuck to main roads more than usual, and kept my braking and turning very slow and gradual.

Not looking forward to the ride/walk home tomorrow morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 12 December, 2017, 07:52:46 am
To save money, the bastard Tories who run Swindon Council have halved the gritting runs this year, so the first half was sheet ice.  Ok on the studded tyres (once you stop shivering with terror and let them do their job) but cars weren't slowing down AT ALL.  There are going to be crashes everywhere.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 12 December, 2017, 07:10:53 pm
It was disconcertingly sparkly when I set off this morning, but the Winter's did their job. The trip back was very soggy, but brightened up by a strong tailwind :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 13 December, 2017, 09:59:03 am
Last night's rain ensured our untreated cul-de-sac was an ice rink this morning. I walked that short stretch, but the rest of the commute was fine. I feel sorry for peds, though, the pavements looked very treacherous.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 13 December, 2017, 10:03:32 am
Just got home last night as the rain started, instant black ice. Back on the slicks this morning and confirmation that I really am lazy, only 5 mins quicker but a helluva lot less effort.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 13 December, 2017, 08:29:25 pm
As per usual at the moment, I had to walk the first bit due to ice, but once onto the main road it's fine.
My Main Road route is dull and a bit hassly with traffic, but at least I can keep the rubber side down.

Lunchtime loop I ventured onto some of our side roads, bet I had to abort part of it and take a detour because the smaller roads are still not passable on a road bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 14 December, 2017, 04:26:24 pm
First commute for a while, but I had to today coz of the works Christmas do. (train home)

Any way the fastest I have done the 33miles, 1hour 35minutes. I did have a nice tail wind down the A38. Zoom!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: telstarbox on 14 December, 2017, 07:49:16 pm
Left keys at home, couldn't lock the bike in the street, had to take it up to the office via four flights of narrow winding stairs. Lesson learnt...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 15 December, 2017, 08:27:09 am
Passing Moss Side medical centre and was just about to tip into the 90 right when my spidey senses tingled and I straightened it up, rear braked, and tip-toed round the bend, then there's a massive bang behind me, I turned just in time to see a cyclist slithering at speed into the kerb.

He was a bit shaken up but ok and the bike's sporting a busted guard and some scratches but he followed me round to the hospital. After we'd established he was all-right he commented 'I'd been trying to catch you and wondered why you were going slowly'. SCR is not a game for icy weather. I think he's going to be a bit sore for a few days, he must have gone down hard to make so much noise and it was a decent impact with the kerb.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 15 December, 2017, 09:52:59 am
The last few hundred yars and a mini roundabout. Straight on or turn? I turned and down I went - like a sack of potatoes. Black ice and I'd taken care all the 10 miles to ride on straight roads. Now a stiff shoulder/hip and lucky not to get a fracture. Not really worth the ride sometimes.  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Stretch on 15 December, 2017, 10:34:07 am
Let a lot of air out of the tyres and still ended up walking for long spells this morning. I'm guessing overnight rain had washed the salt away from the roads.
Pleased of the track pump stashed in my work locker!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 15 December, 2017, 04:28:38 pm
Heavy overnight rain had frozen on contact with the ground.
The roads outside Feanor Towers were the worst skating rink they have been this year.
Even walking the bike the 700m down to the main road was tricky in road cleats.

Today's commute was a dress rehearsal for the Tour of East Lothian.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nethypete on 15 December, 2017, 06:37:33 pm
Quote from: Feanor on 15 December, 2017, 04:28:38 pm
Heavy overnight rain had frozen on contact with the ground..... worst skating rink they have been this year.

We had rainy frosty snowy stuff falling on the icy frosty snowy stuff in the Cairngorms making a cycle to the Board meeting in Boat of Garten a potentially icy slippy slidy thing....ahhhh for studded tyres.  :thumbsup: 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 16 December, 2017, 10:43:07 am
Loads of santas on bikes at Waterloo for some reason.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: orienteer on 16 December, 2017, 12:23:01 pm
Santa-n-deer bikes?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 18 December, 2017, 08:32:32 am
Black ice this morning and Swinedun Council has halved the gritting routes to save money.  It was not pleasant.  Motorised morons not slowing down at all.  ABS does not stop you much faster, it only lets you steer.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 19 December, 2017, 09:56:52 pm
Since the onset of 'winter', I've been enjoying the resultant relative quietness in town.  But today the numpties were out in force - and that was even before I hit Hyde Park and WinterHell.  For the rest of this week, and next, I may resort to Park Lane.

On the plus side I've passed by 2017 target of 9,600km (800km/mo).  If I stay off the Tube and but in a bit of extra effort, I should be able to crack 10,000 before the end of the year.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nethypete on 20 December, 2017, 05:50:54 am
My cycle commuting to work will be 2950ish Km this year saving, according to my calculations, 630kg of CO2 compared with me using a car...apparently 6.5% of individual UK average CO2 consumption of 9.7 tonnes.......so what?  :-\  .....I love the cycle to and from work for lots of reasons but wondered does the small CO2 saving have any meaning/significance?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 20 December, 2017, 12:41:29 pm
Quote from: Nethypete on 20 December, 2017, 05:50:54 am
... does the small CO2 saving have any meaning/significance?
You only have to cycle behind a (fossil fuel powered) car to know the answer to that is 'yes'.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 20 December, 2017, 12:50:08 pm
I reckon I carbon-offset about half my cycling by having extra showers.

The way I see it, I've done my bit for carbon emissions by being child-free and not using aeroplanes.  Everything else is tiny compared to those.

Which isn't to say that cycling rather than driving isn't worthwhile for health (your own and of those who aren't breathing the local pollution), cost savings and reduced congestion, of course.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bdw on 20 December, 2017, 01:24:19 pm
Kept it mostly dry today. Bit of fog but mostly lots of sweating.  :) Bike has been making a weird noise I can't seem to find/fix so once I have the week of I'll have to hand it over to my LBS. Time to start looking for a replacement bike...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TJG on 20 December, 2017, 08:28:31 pm
First P******* for about 8 years!  That put a downer on the evening. 
30 minutes to change it in the dark is not too bad given the lack of practice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nethypete on 22 December, 2017, 11:05:14 am
Quote from: Kim on 20 December, 2017, 12:50:08 pm
I reckon I carbon-offset about half my cycling by having extra showers.

 child-free and not using aeroplanes.  Everything else is tiny compared to those.


Two daughters and work took me to Norway and Portugal this year......need to cycle more  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 22 December, 2017, 09:50:03 pm
Yesterday morning, nearly taken out by two separate cars pulling out of side roads, one driver suggesting I get some lovemaking lights. That evening, returning from work by way of Riverside, I stopped on the little bridge to let the usual impatient car driver squeeze past going the other way.

"You ought to sort them fucking front lights out. Bit too bright".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 02 January, 2018, 09:42:57 pm
Oh boundless joy!  WinterWonderlandHell has closed for the season.  Late November-early January, the Hyde Park numpty quotient is at record levels - well beyond summer holidays.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 03 January, 2018, 08:02:58 am
Flooded roads, massive tailwind, failed road repair, lordy, the impact was massive, my hands are seriously sore.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 03 January, 2018, 12:23:15 pm
Pot hole/similar? How's the bike?

Mine was windy, but as I'm still using the mtb, the front wheel is less prone to being turned by gusts.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 03 January, 2018, 12:51:30 pm
I'm guessing pot hole, this (https://goo.gl/maps/xJE2NdHU4eB2) has only just been repaired. It's my own fault for assuming the surface under the flood was still as good as yesterday, I do know better. Bike seemed ok for the final mile, I'll find out on the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 03 January, 2018, 03:51:20 pm
Aside from being a little gusty, crossing the Thames on Chelsea Bridge today, the last couple of days have been relatively pleasant, and unusually peaceful commutes.  I guess it's a mixture of people taking a few more days off for Christmas and the New Year and some school spring terms not starting until next week.  Whatever the cause, I'm not complaining !
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 04 January, 2018, 08:20:21 am
Tough last night, passing the golf course at Flixton and it's not difficult to hit 40+ kph down the dip but I was struggling to hit 14 and actually thought about getting off and walking.

Steady this morning and got to spend the last mile or so chatting to a pleasant audaxer, given away by his luggage.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Bairn Again on 08 January, 2018, 11:12:58 am
Was on annual leave last week so first day back after New Year this morning. 

It was my "long" commute to the city centre in Edinburgh today, so about 7km instead of my regular 4km  ;).  Totally freezing, Id been out at the Airport earlier in the morning and the car read -6 deg. at 0630 and it wasnt much warmer when I set off for work at 0800.  My hands are still sore from the cold...definitely a day for the extra liner gloves! 

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 08 January, 2018, 12:36:46 pm
Wooly hat for the first time this winter, it was bitter.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 10 January, 2018, 10:21:50 am
Amazing the difference a few degrees and the absence of wind can make, I actually enjoyed that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 10 January, 2018, 06:55:28 pm
First day on the bike since 21st December.
And my first 'proper' run since 26th December.
Maybe doing them on the same day was a mistake...
Fun though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 10 January, 2018, 08:01:56 pm
I watched one chap get almost left hooked twice today within the space of about 400 yards. Great bike handling skills. Less good on the observation and anticipation front though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrinklyLion on 11 January, 2018, 11:53:07 pm
(https://scontent.flhr2-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/26907084_10155794560026839_5827548587036824719_n.jpg?oh=954102f9258591690b1e5ca7bf3376cb&oe=5AB36ABC)
https://twitter.com/CrinklyLion/status/951395939608035328 (https://twitter.com/CrinklyLion/status/951395939608035328)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nethypete on 12 January, 2018, 08:29:41 pm
Skidding even on the studded tyres today yet have managed to cycle to work every working day this year so far...100%..... despite snow, frost, fog and high winds. It can't get better.  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: delap on 12 January, 2018, 11:10:53 pm
Got knocked off by an oncoming, overtaking car on the B3128 just by Long Ashton golf club at 6pm today.  Probably doing 20mph down a  small incline when one of a small group of oncoming cars pulls out sharply to overtake straight into my path.  We both braked, he skidded a little , we both swerved to our lefts and I thought I had just made past but he clipped the back end of the bike and all of a sudden I am astride the bike but lying on my side on the verge (soft and grassy  :thumbsup:).  Nobody stopped.  I can just about believe that the overtaken cars might have missed it.  Two or three cars stopped a few minutes later and one offered me a lift to my destination.

Luckily I have only a small cut and a few abrasions from the bike and a bit shaken by a few seconds of high speed oncoming headlights  :o.  The rear rack is bent and both pannier fixings are damaged plus the top of my phone screen is rather more cracked than before.  Will need to check the rear triangle in the tomorrow.  I've reported it online and filled out a STATS19 but barring a guilty conscience self report by the driver that's about it.  If anyone knows Ian Hudson from Portishead, tell him thanks very much for the lift.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 12 January, 2018, 11:17:15 pm
Glad to hear you're still around and without too much damage. Shitty driver behaviour though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 January, 2018, 11:26:27 am
Sorry to hear about that, delap.  Horrible situation, and, as LWaB says, really shitty behaviour.

Glad that there are still some decent people in the world, and that you are still with us.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 23 January, 2018, 11:28:19 am
Apparently, I have a bicycle, and i can just about ride it!  I cycled a total of 8km yesterday to and from the station near work.  It felt good to be on the bike, but frustrating to be so unfit, and just plain annoying to not be able to breathe very well (OK, so I was off sick last week...).

I am hoping to repeat the exercise later in the week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 23 January, 2018, 02:03:16 pm
Quote from: clarion on 23 January, 2018, 11:28:19 am
Apparently, I have a bicycle, and i can just about ride it!

 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 24 January, 2018, 03:04:30 pm
An hour later today, absolute madness. There's a new gate on the bend across the lane down to the locks which I'll need to remember as it won't be too visible since the streetlights are in the canal.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Diver300 on 24 January, 2018, 05:43:03 pm
Some wind. 8 mph where I hit 27 mph last night in the other direction.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Stretch on 25 January, 2018, 10:37:40 am
Nearest miss of my 30+ years cycling today.

I was on a roundabout that intersects a main road (A164) when an artic came out of the road on my left and cut right across the front of me, the rear trailer wheels missed my front wheel by perhaps 1ft-18ins. Fortunately I was travelling pretty slowly and ended up on the centre of the roundabout.

The taxi driver following him thought he was on a mobile as he'd noticed a white light in the cab. I've just about stopped shaking, don't want any more of those!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 25 January, 2018, 02:16:02 pm
I wondered where my irregular commuting buddy was this morning, he usually arrives just a little after me. Turns out he was in A&E with a busted collarbone after being doored by a passenger who going to be late for their eye hospital appointment.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 26 January, 2018, 06:26:41 pm
Had an off on ice this morning.

I assessed the conditions as mild enough for my 'normal' route, rather than my icy-conditions route.
I was wrong.

Went down fairly hard on my hip / buttock and slit slid for a surprising distance.
Expecting to see ripped clothing, but not a scratch.
The road surface was perfectly covered with a sheen of ice that I slid along with no damage to my kit.
Bike has just a few more character-forming scrapes, but nothing worse.

I'm a bit bruised and struggle on stairs, but fairly OK on the bike for the ride home.
Will have a cracking bruise tomorrow morning, I expect.


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonJo on 26 January, 2018, 07:17:54 pm
Quote from: Feanor on 26 January, 2018, 06:26:41 pm

Went down fairly hard on my hip / buttock and slit for a surprising distance.
Expecting to see ripped clothing, but not a scratch.


Yebbut how's your slit?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 26 January, 2018, 07:45:14 pm
Quote from: JonJo on 26 January, 2018, 07:17:54 pm
Quote from: Feanor on 26 January, 2018, 06:26:41 pm

Went down fairly hard on my hip / buttock and slit for a surprising distance.
Expecting to see ripped clothing, but not a scratch.


Yebbut how's your slit?

D'oh!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CommuteTooFar on 27 January, 2018, 09:57:54 pm
On Wednesday cycle in it was tipping down so there was more traffic on the road. I am a little unfit after sick pre xmas so I am still not able to cycle as fast as I would normally.  I was struggling up a false flat when a large lorry with a trailer came up behind  me.  There was nowhere for me to pull in to let him pass. A continuous stream of cars in the opposing lane prevented overtaking.  All credit to the driver he did not try to squeeze past. Eventually a gap in the traffic permitted him to pass me safely and he did.  Behind him there was a motorcyclist he shouted at me and made jestures. Thats the first time I have upset two wheeled traffic. He should know better if he could not get past the lorry the lorry could not get past me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TJG on 30 January, 2018, 01:55:02 pm
Very close pass from a volvo estate this morning. A few km further on as I was thinking to myself this is not the first bit of dodgey driving I have seen from a volvo recently an Audi stopped when it was his right of way to let me past a parked car and gave a friendly wave as I went past.   Are volvos going cheap as company cars now or something?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 31 January, 2018, 09:15:17 am
SMIDSY.

From the tossbucket on our gatehouse.
Left me standing astride my bike for 2 minutes 30 secs (according to the GPS track) because he couldn't see me. (Or was asleep- he has a history)

Unfortunately for him, he pissed off the person responsible for contracted services. Like Security.  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 31 January, 2018, 04:02:24 pm
working at a new location - Media city in salford and there is v.little parking down here so taken to riding the bike everyday even if it means driving halfway to avoid snow/ice where and I live and the worst rain. Rather ride 5 miles in the wet than 12 miles. Turns out easier than I thought and takes an hour (subject to traffic) from shutting the office door to getting bike from hub, clipping lights on/fastening helmet and getting to the house. So I've gone from a fair weather rider full distance  to an all weather albeit shorter distance rider. Has req. investment in o/shoes (Ebay) - how quick do they wear out!! :o and open soled ones work better for me and some overmitt-lobsterclaw things in the Rapha sale
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jakob on 31 January, 2018, 07:44:57 pm
 3 lane-one way street. Has a bike-path, but was blocked off for construction. I need to turn left anyway, so go in the left (mostly empty) lane and some numbty pulls over into me. I just about swerve around him.
 I then just about make the next light, he clearly doesn't but decide to blow through it anyway.
30 seconds later,I realise I also have a puncture.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TJG on 01 February, 2018, 11:04:26 pm
Usual service resumed today with an Audi driver seeing how close they could get. Although it was averaged out by the Audi driver behind who gave me so much room they nearly hit the car coming the other way!

Return journey was a blast though. I noticed the front wheel was rubbing on something as I left so spent 5 minutes trying to figure out what, gave up and resigned myself to a slow trudge home then realised it was fine again. It felt like I was on a new bike! Wonder how long I have been riding around like that?  Then I realised this morning's head / cross wind had not changed direction and I flew home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 02 February, 2018, 08:21:43 am
I've been seeing the same cyclist coming the other way on my commute 2 or 3 times a week for the last 7 or 8 years.  The roads are pretty empty when I ride in in the morning and it's rare I see more than 1 or 2 other cyclists, so it felt odd that he didn't respond to a greeting. So I gave gave up trying for a while.  Then I noticed we were exchanging nods of acknowledgement. That carried on for a few years until the fairly recently, when we'd somehow developed a hand-off-the-bar-but-understated wave. This morning I had to stop to change Etrex batteries and just as I was finishing, there he was, pulled up by me, asking if I'd got all I needed, tubes etc? I said I was OK and it was good to say hello at last. He chuckled and went on his way. I don't know why but the exchange pleased me inordinately.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: telstarbox on 02 February, 2018, 08:27:29 am
I read something similar about commuters from rural railway stations - after 5 years of seeing each other on the platform you might nod, after 10 years you might mutter "morning".
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 02 February, 2018, 12:19:16 pm
I usually say hello when I pass someone a cyclist out here in the Oxfordshire sticks, but rarely get a response.  And, yes, I do give them plenty of room...  ;)

Lovely ride in this am.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 03 February, 2018, 08:39:43 am
Irlam locks is narrow enough that careful negotiation is required, you generally see the same people, so there's a few I speak to, nod. Infrastructure, bringing people together  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TJG on 06 February, 2018, 01:58:55 pm
Today I learnt... snow really really hurts when it gets in your eyes.  Over about 20 mph it seems to be sucked into them!
Luckily I had a clear pair of glasses in my bag.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 07 February, 2018, 11:53:39 am
Lots of ice about today, a portion of it being in my rear brake cable  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 07 February, 2018, 05:21:35 pm
Yet we had sub-zero temperatures this morning, but I saw no ice apart from outside a fish processors  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 08 February, 2018, 01:24:44 pm
My first ever experience (in fifty years on my bike and in my car) of black ice this morning, on Kennington Park Road just before Newington Butts, CS7. (And I worked in the Alps for three Winters.)

‘Like a skating rink’ is an understatement. Two went down ahead of me, then me, and another one before I took to doing point duty and spent the next 90 minutes standing in the bus lane gesticulating wildly at all those on bikes to stay out. Water main leak under the pavement was flooding the road and vehicles splashing the water around meant the pavement was icy as well as the road. The bit that looked icy, was icy, and I avoided that. The bit that looked like a puddle, was a puddle (fresh water flowing in) and I avoided that in case there was ice under. What caught me out was that the bit that looked damp was black ice. Even after I took up my post someone didn’t listen and went down after passing me. One motorcyclist rather charmingly told me to ‘fuck off’, I soooo wished he had gone down.

I’m absolutely fine (I was ready for it). Bike brake lever shifted round (no problem). No scuffed clothing and thankfully my newly taped handlebars appeared to be scuff-free.

I rang 999 and got put through to the police. They said they would send someone. No-one appeared. I looked around vainly for a spare traffic cone, but none was in sight. I rang the police again after about half an hour. ‘Yes, I can see your previous call. The Fire Brigade have been alerted.’ Finally, after 90 minutes a highways unit turned up and they had grit so I left for work.

Lots of motorists in the jam for the lights stopped to chat, ask what was going on, commend me for my public spirit. Quite a few pedestrians too. One woman explained that the leak has been there since December and she has told Thames Water about it, but because it’s not a major leak it’s way down their priority list. They also claim it’s Lambeth Council’s job. Lambeth Council say it’s TfLs responsibility. The Police apparently pass the buck in a similar manner.

I reckon the NHS would save money if they put someone there all day to avoid extra entries in the fracture clinic queue.

Shambles.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 08 February, 2018, 01:43:29 pm
Quote from: hatler on 08 February, 2018, 01:24:44 pm
I took to doing point duty and spent the next 90 minutes standing in the bus lane gesticulating wildly at all those on bikes to stay out.

Chapeau!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 09 February, 2018, 12:29:07 pm
Quote from: hatler on 08 February, 2018, 01:24:44 pm
My first ever experience (in fifty years on my bike and in my car) of black ice this morning, on Kennington Park Road just before Newington Butts, CS7. (And I worked in the Alps for three Winters.)

‘Like a skating rink’ is an understatement. Two went down ahead of me, then me, and another one before I took to doing point duty and spent the next 90 minutes standing in the bus lane gesticulating wildly at all those on bikes to stay out. Water main leak under the pavement was flooding the road and vehicles splashing the water around meant the pavement was icy as well as the road. The bit that looked icy, was icy, and I avoided that. The bit that looked like a puddle, was a puddle (fresh water flowing in) and I avoided that in case there was ice under. What caught me out was that the bit that looked damp was black ice. Even after I took up my post someone didn’t listen and went down after passing me. One motorcyclist rather charmingly told me to ‘fuck off’, I soooo wished he had gone down.

I’m absolutely fine (I was ready for it). Bike brake lever shifted round (no problem). No scuffed clothing and thankfully my newly taped handlebars appeared to be scuff-free.

I rang 999 and got put through to the police. They said they would send someone. No-one appeared. I looked around vainly for a spare traffic cone, but none was in sight. I rang the police again after about half an hour. ‘Yes, I can see your previous call. The Fire Brigade have been alerted.’ Finally, after 90 minutes a highways unit turned up and they had grit so I left for work.

Lots of motorists in the jam for the lights stopped to chat, ask what was going on, commend me for my public spirit. Quite a few pedestrians too. One woman explained that the leak has been there since December and she has told Thames Water about it, but because it’s not a major leak it’s way down their priority list. They also claim it’s Lambeth Council’s job. Lambeth Council say it’s TfLs responsibility. The Police apparently pass the buck in a similar manner.

I reckon the NHS would save money if they put someone there all day to avoid extra entries in the fracture clinic queue.

Shambles.

Hatler

Well done on stepping forward. If you contact Thames Water with the location of the leak and explain that it is causing Black Ice to form then it should jump it up their list to an urgent response. but I only say should not that it will.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 09 February, 2018, 01:02:56 pm
I got on the blower to TfL and Thames Water as soon as I got into work and explained the urgency. TW already have a licence in place for the works which expires on Feb 14th. The TfL chap seemed completely unbothered by the whole thing, despite the fact it's a Cycle Superhighway and a red route.

Neither of them seemed to comprehend that the current situation is life threatening.

To cap it all I had an automated text from TW this morning asking how I would rate their service desk. How they can focus on such trivialities when their core infrastructure is causing a clear and present danger to hundreds of people is beyond me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 09 February, 2018, 01:23:52 pm
I had similar issues with a big diesel spill. Local council to Surrey Highways, to police, and back. No one seemed terribly bothered.

Never ever got a final response, fortunately there was torrential rain later in the day which I assume washed the worst of it away.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 09 February, 2018, 01:45:32 pm
Diesel is slippery but also destroys asphalt, so the surfacing would have needed replacement.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 09 February, 2018, 02:02:15 pm
Some chance, it's Surrey (despite being the richest county, levying a high council tax, and providing very few services, there's never 'any resources').

The problem is that you only ever speak to call centres and they don't care. They just (preferably) pass you on or enter it into 'their system'. The council told me to call 101 if it was urgent. The police said Surrey Highways should clear it. I've no idea if they ever did, like I say, there was a period of heavy rain which did the job.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 10 February, 2018, 11:22:08 am
There's a reason I use a flashing light at times on my commute, and don't like parts of it in certain weather.

I had to help with a location for a 999 call on my way to work yesterday. A driver of a Ford Focus had driven round a right hander, straight towards the low sun (and wet road glare), and then driven into the back of a dog and dog walker, which he "hadn't seen because of the sun".

The walker (and friend) seemed ok, but the poor dog looked to have been hit hard enough to throw it onto the grass verge. It was being kept still and consoled by the walker, while the driver was ringing the emergency services (that can include an emergency vet I found out).

In the end I decided there was nothing I could help with further, so I carried on to work; though I did avoid a later bit of road that was on the same alignment and took a longer way in.

I hope the dog and walker are ok. Why people don't slow down when they get dazzled by the sun is really beyond me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 12 February, 2018, 08:41:42 am
I hope the weather forecast is right, all a bit dicey on slicks in that much sitting hail but it's supposed to be up to 8 degrees this afternoon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 15 February, 2018, 06:23:57 pm
Good ride back tonight. A couple of spots of commuter racing. Passed one chap, similar age to me, hybrid, no hi-viz, no helmet, no tail light (but it wasn't dark so no problem). He was being very sedate as I overtook him on the way into the village. However as I was going up the slope (it's not really that much of a hill) to my turn off, he came sedately past me.
'You should get a battery'

Oh well. Gave us both a bit of a laugh...and the time may come.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 15 February, 2018, 06:55:03 pm
It was light enough to only need the 'be seen' lights on the way home this evening. We're almost through the period of those long dark commutes :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 15 February, 2018, 07:06:52 pm
Indeed we are.  As I headed out this morning, just after 6, the sky in the east definitely had light in it and I come home early enough that I don't need lamps at all now.

In other news.... barn owl and bunnies work bound.  A flock (30 to 50) of what I took to be field fares on the way home and was also overtaken by a mobile chippy hmmm what a _delicious_ smell.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 15 February, 2018, 07:13:32 pm
I'm back on the main road alternative right now, due to ice on the back roads and cycle paths.

I get about one angry BEEP a day with a shout of 'Get on the cycle path!"

This is as I am filtering through stationary traffic on the congested dual carriageway between Hazelhead and Kingswells, where they are being held up by...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 15 February, 2018, 07:53:33 pm
I used occasionally to get that on Market Street filtering through the stationery traffic. Haven't had it for a long time. I expect when Market St, Union St and King St have been emptied by the opening of AWPR it will all be cycling heaven.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 15 February, 2018, 10:13:32 pm
At times I consider strapping a torch to my hand for the evening commute.  Then I can shine it directly in the faces of all those ******* don't know how to position their front lights properly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 15 February, 2018, 10:14:45 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 15 February, 2018, 10:13:32 pm
At times I consider strapping a torch to my hand for the evening commute.  Then I can shine it directly in the faces of all those ******* don't know how to position their front lights properly.

Motorists? :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 15 February, 2018, 10:40:32 pm
Quote from: Kim on 15 February, 2018, 10:14:45 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 15 February, 2018, 10:13:32 pm
At times I consider strapping a torch to my hand for the evening commute.  Then I can shine it directly in the faces of all those ******* don't know how to position their front lights properly.

Motorists? :)

Hah.  Other cyclists.  Cars actually haven't been much of a problem.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 15 February, 2018, 10:54:31 pm
I took the long way home this evening, through Reigate and then across Reigate Heath to Leigh. Cartloads of cars heading the other way, nose to tail in places, as they all try to find a way through the congestion caused by the M23 being closed northbound.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 16 February, 2018, 08:16:23 am
Quote from: mcshroom on 15 February, 2018, 06:55:03 pm
It was light enough to only need the 'be seen' lights on the way home this evening. We're almost through the period of those long dark commutes :)

Yes, woo and indeed hoo!

On the best bike today since I plan to declare POETS and go play on the A6 in the sun. I love that bike, got passed by a bus in Urmston and had actually got enough legs to get on the back without getting out the saddle, that's not happened for a long time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 20 February, 2018, 08:19:27 am
It's awfully quiet on this thread.

Caught another cyclist at the red lights in Urmston, after the change I was hanging back letting the traffic pass while he found his toe-clip, a fixed rider came past who I let go, then one of the regulars who is stupidly quick flew past. This provided me with a bit of motivation, caught the fixed but there was no way I could close the gap to the other guy, pleased and surprised there was as much power there as there was IYSWIM.

Might as well enjoy the weather, looks like turning brass monkeys again by the weekend.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 20 February, 2018, 08:41:45 am
Indeed.  Lovely ride home yesterday.  No wind to speak of, no rail or hail, no frost or ice, light all the way, and temperature high enough to bare legs, fingers and ears.  I was beginning to forget what it was like.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 20 February, 2018, 10:33:11 pm
1) The wind was NOT FUN (both legs of the commute).
2) People are arseholes (other words may have been used during the commute).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 21 February, 2018, 10:57:26 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 20 February, 2018, 10:33:11 pm
1) The wind was NOT FUN (both legs of the commute).
2) People are arseholes (other words may have been used during the commute).
1) wind less horrid.
2) people still arseholes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 22 February, 2018, 08:21:57 am
Wednesday night was just cruising when a mate with a guy on his wheel pulled alongside gasping "I'm racing the train", challenge accepted, so we ended up doing turns and somehow I got stuck on the front going up the rise on Church Road at 40kph, and bugger me if I'm not in the same position on the false flat up Fairhills either, not cut out for that.

Net result is I've been taking it very easy yesterday and today, loving the weather though, doesn't seem as cold or as windy as the Met Office are saying it is.

Edit: His train was cancelled   ::-)

Further Edit: Bugger it was Tuesday, which means today is not Friday  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 22 February, 2018, 09:00:48 am
Yesterday morning.  Hear weird bird call somewhere between a duck's quack and a goose's honk to my left.  Look to my left to see a heron.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 22 February, 2018, 11:55:30 am
Quote from: TheLurker on 22 February, 2018, 09:00:48 am
Yesterday morning.  Hear weird bird call somewhere between a duck's quack and a goose's honk to my left.  Look to my left to see a heron.

Herons make noise?  Other than low-speed flapping?  Mind.  Blown.

Usually they just stand around pretending to be plastic herons.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 22 February, 2018, 01:24:33 pm
Maybe just the noise a duck/goose makes while being sat on or swallowed by a heron?

Back on the fixed for the first time since damaging my knees in September. Kept pedalling, but it's clear that the seat pin is too short. Having spent 5 months on a bike that fits me, the saddle on the Grubb is too low, and the line on the pin that shouldn't be visible already is!

But nice to be back on the cog again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 22 February, 2018, 03:18:10 pm
Quote from: Kim on 22 February, 2018, 11:55:30 am
Quote from: TheLurker on 22 February, 2018, 09:00:48 am
Yesterday morning.  Hear weird bird call somewhere between a duck's quack and a goose's honk to my left.  Look to my left to see a heron.

Herons make noise?  Other than low-speed flapping?  Mind.  Blown.

Usually they just stand around pretending to be plastic herons.
They also do a beak-clacking thing; head back and clatter the mandibles(?) together.  Loud.  Not sure if it's a mating / territorial thing or what.  Only ever heard / seen it the once at Buscot Park; which has (or had) quite a large flock of them.  I expect an ornithologist will be along soon with a better explanation.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 26 February, 2018, 11:51:19 am
Cold, dry and sunny.   

'Interesting' conversation with the drivers of two vehicles 'stopped for a meeting' & totally blocking dual use path.

Only bike in the bike shed today!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CAMRAMan on 26 February, 2018, 05:14:19 pm
I went cross country on my commute today. The first bridleway was a relatively flat farm track, but the second turned into a rutted sheep trail that was rock hard with frost. Not fun. I will forego the latter tomorrow, but stick with the farm track, as I often see hares in the fields that way. It had thawed on the way home, but it's been a dry cold of late and the mud wasn't too bad. It looks like staying below freezing all day for the rest of the week, so I'll stick with the scenic route.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 26 February, 2018, 05:36:51 pm
As I was rushing between sites today I rode through our little cyclists' cut through the trees and there was a Buzzard sat on a fence post just the other side. It stared at me but didn't move. Beautiful bird, and massive! :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 26 February, 2018, 07:04:00 pm
On way back, I was on the A-road doing 25-30km/h, and a cyclist undertakes me riding on the narrow footpath (which desparately needs siding), then sees a runner coming towards him, and hardly slows up at all as he goes passed.    :o

Nice to have snow (albeit with driving wind) for the last 10mins, clear cycling specs do a very good job under these conditions.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 27 February, 2018, 09:29:58 am
I could have got on the bike in the snow this morning to work, but I'd rather not tempt fate and fall off. Caution is my watch-word today!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 27 February, 2018, 09:39:05 am
Discretion was the the better part of valor today. Rather than drive 65 miles into the SNOpocolipse in that there Kent, I walked to the local client site to work from there.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 27 February, 2018, 09:55:03 am
Quote from: Riggers on 27 February, 2018, 09:29:58 am
I could have got on the bike in the snow this morning to work, but....

....I gambled it'd be ok when I got onto the bus routes and bigger roads, fun on slicks in one or two places though.

(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4711/25641181597_194e30d05d_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/F4PKXT)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CAMRAMan on 27 February, 2018, 10:54:30 am
This weather is where the Schwalbe Ice Spikers come into their own. The bridleway was calm today, although I noticed from the tracks that I was only the second one to pass that way today. Light flurries in Warwick & Kenilworth, but COLD!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 27 February, 2018, 01:09:09 pm
Quote from: Si S on 27 February, 2018, 09:55:03 am

....I gambled it'd be ok when I got onto the bus routes and bigger roads, fun on slicks in one or two places though.

(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4711/25641181597_194e30d05d_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/F4PKXT)

Cycling with Hope, I see.  I walked down the snow-covered drive at 5:45, cycled about 200 meters on clearish tarmac, another 100m on less clear tarmac, then turned round before the plunge down the hill to Pontardawe. Then waited an hour before waking my wife and asking for a lift.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cygnet on 27 February, 2018, 02:47:53 pm
This morning on a cycle superhighway, signalling to turn right and got a low 5 off an oncoming rider. Made me smile  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 27 February, 2018, 02:58:33 pm
Quote from: Nuncio on 27 February, 2018, 01:09:09 pm
Cycling with Hope, I see.

 ;D

If my commute had any sort of elevation change I'd have gone on the studs, especially since that bike has a sticky rear brake (water in the cable run). I knew the roads had been well gritted last night since I got gritted twice on the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nethypete on 27 February, 2018, 07:36:58 pm
Back on the studs again today for the icy patches rather than any snow.....but tomorrow might be a different story  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 28 February, 2018, 08:13:33 am
-4 and sno. T'was a Good Idea to put BMX tyres on the folder, didn't slip once 8)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 28 February, 2018, 08:38:31 am
Walked in again. There's compacted snow from yesterday, turned to ice, now with a thin layer of new snow on top. Playing it sensible again today. It's a 10-minute walk to work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CAMRAMan on 28 February, 2018, 08:43:47 am
No bridleways for me this morning! -4C and snowflakes in the air to add to the thick dusting on the ground. The cyclepaths were probably icy under the snow, so the Ice Spikers were reassuringly grippy. I suspect that a couple of winters riding have taken their toll on the spikes, but they still grip well under braking.

I saw someone on a Brompton as I set out. Doubt they do studded tyres for those!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 28 February, 2018, 08:49:44 am
Studs for me too, the whole of the locks and the bottom of Irlam Road were a solid sheet of ice last night and things weren't going to get better overnight so discretion being the better part of valour and all that I chose the slooooow bike. In all reality it's not that much slower, what you lose in efficiency you gain in confidence.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 28 February, 2018, 09:26:41 am
I walked the last couple of hundred metres to work into a blizzard - zero visibility due to hard snow in the face, slippery road & getting blown about by the wind = type 2 fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 28 February, 2018, 09:47:20 am
Quote from: Pingu on 28 February, 2018, 09:26:41 am
I walked the last couple of hundred metres to work

Wimp!

 ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: trekker12 on 28 February, 2018, 12:03:49 pm
Well I got here. It's been a blizzard ever since so the homeward journey might be fun. At least the wind is behind going home.

(https://i.imgur.com/CPe81Tu.jpg)

Schwalbe winter Marathons fitted coped admirably. I'm sure a Spiker would have been even more grippy but I didn't feel I was in trouble at any point.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: yorkie on 28 February, 2018, 12:24:08 pm


Quote from: CAMRAMan on 28 February, 2018, 08:43:47 am
I saw someone on a Brompton as I set out. Doubt they do studded tyres for those!

Oh they do!

https://www.bike24.com/1.php?content=8;product=144537;menu=1000,2,103,202;pgc%5B3039%5D=3042;page=2

(Other studded tyres may be available in Brompton sizes as well as these!)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CAMRAMan on 28 February, 2018, 01:22:41 pm
Blimey, I might get a pair! 18" as well & I've just flogged the Birdy!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonBuoy on 28 February, 2018, 05:42:54 pm
It was a bit nippy both ways today.

I was surprised to see a sandwich board man standing by an exposed out of town roundabout advertising Papa Johns pizzas on the way home.  It was minus five!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 28 February, 2018, 09:09:43 pm
Balaclava!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 01 March, 2018, 06:55:15 am
Been riding the trike for most of this cold winter. Needed rarely but it's nice when you hit the odd ice patch.

This week though - it is MADE for these conditions.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 01 March, 2018, 08:36:47 am
That wind is truly evil, this threatens to be one of the toughest weeks commuting for many a year, winter 2010/11 springs to mind but it's nowt like that yet. My latest Scarpa's obviously aren't as warm as the ones I had back then, getting cold toes despite the use of silk socks and tin foil under the insoles, still got a few winter tricks left but not many.

Today and tomorrow looks to be the worst of it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 01 March, 2018, 08:49:12 am
Quote from: JonBuoy on 28 February, 2018, 05:42:54 pm
It was a bit nippy both ways today.

I was surprised to see a sandwich board man standing by an exposed out of town roundabout advertising Papa Johns pizzas on the way home.  It was minus five!

Bargain!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 01 March, 2018, 08:50:46 am
Hard work today, but hardly anyone seems to have bothered going out so I was mostly carving my own route along the paths until I caught up with the guy on the fatbike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 01 March, 2018, 10:05:17 am
Quote from: sg37409 on 28 February, 2018, 09:47:20 am
Quote from: Pingu on 28 February, 2018, 09:26:41 am
I walked the last couple of hundred metres to work

Wimp!

 ;D

Yup  :)

The roads were clearer today and there was much less traffic. No walking at all!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CAMRAMan on 01 March, 2018, 10:50:34 am
-4C when I set out and my thumbs were in need of a thaw by the time I arrived 40 minutes later. I used to cycle in -15C in Sweden in the early 90s and I don't recall it being so tough despite having inferior kit then. I was, however, 25 years younger!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 01 March, 2018, 10:53:03 am
Probably drier air in Sweden too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CAMRAMan on 01 March, 2018, 01:27:45 pm
Only 33% humidity in my back garden today. It's purely my age :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Greenbank on 01 March, 2018, 02:16:37 pm
Slowest commute ever (twice as long as my fastest) but big smug grin for most of the way, despite the freezing headwind (14kph into the brunt of it along Millbank).

Studded tyres (Marathon Winter) definitely required for the first half a mile on ungritted roads, but the remaining 7 miles would have mostly been fine on normal tyres, but having the studs there gave me all the confidence I needed even if I were to hit an icy patch.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 01 March, 2018, 06:49:37 pm
Well the Schwalbe Winters are earning their keep despite the lack of anything but a light dusting of snow, but that was hard work. That wind is brutal.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CAMRAMan on 01 March, 2018, 06:51:17 pm
Slow ride home for me too & not a pleasant journey. The Ice Spikers are fine on ice, but not at all good on snow & slush & that is what I had to contend with a lot of the ride and I was tramlining constantly. I nearly had an off in Kenilworth in a queue of traffic I was riding around. The outer studs on the tyres saved me. I shan't be riding tomorrow. The snow is forecast to persist overnight and into the morning. The drive in will NOT be fun...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CAMRAMan on 02 March, 2018, 08:20:09 am
...and the drive in was a piece of piss! No school run traffic and those wiser than me heeded the travel advice. Still, the condition of the roads justified my decision after the treacherous conditions yesterday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 02 March, 2018, 08:30:26 am
I had to walk up Sodding-Great-Hill-With-Added-Speed-Humps this morning. It was a sheet of ice covered in compacted sno. The contractors who are responsible for doing our roads under Privatisation For Greater Efficiency haven't been earning the huge wodge of tax-payers money they're getting. We never had this problem when the QM's dept did it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 02 March, 2018, 11:19:39 am
Brutal wind and still ice on the hill where I live so car to the end of the M66 then on the bike. My Rapha winter hat earning it's keep. I was warm but had some proper kit on :thumbsup:. irritatingly I lost a lobster claw glove (Assos) last night >:(. It was carried off by the wind when I put gloves/helmet down to open the garage door. If anybody finds on in North Manchester pm me please. Its a black/blue lobsterclaw.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: clarion on 02 March, 2018, 02:09:38 pm
Well done to all who made it in to work!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: markcjagar on 02 March, 2018, 06:03:51 pm
I took the MTB fearing the worst. Could've used the road bike
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nethypete on 03 March, 2018, 07:30:09 am
Quote from: CAMRAMan on 01 March, 2018, 06:51:17 pm
The Ice Spikers are fine on ice, but not at all good on snow & slush

Thursday morning the most challenging with patches of thick compressed snow wheel ruts. I get the odd slide on the studs in these conditions but I've never 'lost' the bike. Thankfully the roads were quiet with many not at work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 03 March, 2018, 02:55:20 pm
I've found that Ice Spikers fine on ice, on account of the studs, and reasonably good on virgin snow if you drop the pressure very low, but compressed snow that shears will still have you sliding about, and deep ruts are always going to be a tramlining hazard.

Not sure if a narrower tyre at higher pressure (eg. Marathon Winter) is an advantage on the compressed stuff.  The problem is, that's usually accompanied by enough loose snow that you're probably better off with the wide knobblies.

Obviously Ice Spikers are suboptimal if it's just icy tarmac, rather than snow, on account of the rolling resistance.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: trekker12 on 06 March, 2018, 10:40:24 am
Now the snow has mostly melted the water levels are rather high. I cut through the back lanes this morning and found myself wading across a bridge pushing the bike with icy water above the hubs.

Socks and shoes are currently sitting on the radiator by the back door to the office!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 06 March, 2018, 06:16:35 pm
Me too.

(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4607/25786902747_142c83a85d_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/FhGBMv)
Wet commute (https://flic.kr/p/FhGBMv) by Ron Lowe (https://www.flickr.com/photos/62966413@N04/), on Flickr

That's the bike sitting on the grass verge.
On the actual road, the entire chainset was submerged.

I got off and waded for about 100 metres.
I'm stood in deep water taking that photo!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 06 March, 2018, 07:01:26 pm
You poured your shoes out at the end then? Yuk.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 06 March, 2018, 07:21:45 pm
When I got home, about half a pint of water poured out of each boot.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 07 March, 2018, 06:35:15 pm
Little shits on mini-motos screaming around the cyclepath network in clouds of 2-stroke oil.  I do hope that doesn't become a regular thing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 07 March, 2018, 10:06:54 pm
Doh !

This morning.

Numpty onna bike pulls out from between queueing traffic in the other lane on my right and then dithers between heading for the left, the middle or the right.

I'm doing about 20, it's hosing it down and I decide to head for where he is, hoping like hell he goes one way or the other. He stays where he is and I read end him, straight over the handlebars.

Knocked the bridge off my glasses, the mirror out of the bar end, and the bike landed on the saddle so the leather has a bit of a scuff and was a bit out of line (right side a bit lower than the left).

I retrieved both bits (neither of which had been run over by the following traffic), and re-levelled the saddle when I got to work. Slight graze on my left knee and a couple of hardly noticeable red patches on my face. No apparent damage to jersey or troos but my (already well knackered) gloves took a bit of a tear.

That's three offs in a year, I went 12 years before that and only came off once. Bloody hell.

Then I got a front punc on the way home.

Bah !!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nethypete on 08 March, 2018, 05:50:32 am
Quote from: Feanor on 06 March, 2018, 07:21:45 pm
When I got home, about half a pint of water poured out of each boot.

When I get home from a cycle commute I often have two half pints poured out of one glass.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 08 March, 2018, 07:27:59 pm
First time I've used the back road in a week so nice to see the usual animal life (Barn owl, buzzards, bunnies and lambs) and, considering how little snow we had here, astonishingly large snowdrifts along hedgerows and in ditches for tens of yards at a stretch.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peat on 09 March, 2018, 10:14:40 am
Rolling to a stop at some temporary traffic lights this morning, no-one infront of me, car overtakes me at the last minute and cuts in and stops beyond the 'WAIT HERE' sign. I probably should have known better, but i released the brake and rolled down the LHS and stopped infront of guy.

Very short stretch of controlled area, followed by 4 or 5 cars queuing the other side. Once past there, the guy performed what can only be described as a 'punishment pass'. It was SO close as he cut infront of me, i'm quite surprised it didn't make contact.

Boils my piss on 2 counts - 1) Totally disproportionate escalation. Is a minor inconvenience worth risking homicide? 2) Cowardice. It's like throwing a punch at someone on crutches then running away.

I had another, unsolicited, horribly close pass earlier in the week. Starting to think I should invest in cameras front and back to bring some of these maniacs to some kind of justice, but I don't really want to become one of 'those' cyclists.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 09 March, 2018, 10:18:37 am
I got a stream of abuse this morning for daring to take primary round the quadrant (medium sized roundabout with parking in the middle - cracking idea  ::-) ) didn't spoil what was a glorious morning though  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 13 March, 2018, 08:36:32 am
First one out of winter tights and heavyweight shell, combination of that and the best bike made for the quickest commute for a good while, really enjoyed that.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 13 March, 2018, 01:06:53 pm
First one on my shiny new Brompton. :thumbsup:

Nearly 5 minutes quicker than my other folder - over 2 anna half miles that's quite some difference!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 13 March, 2018, 07:56:21 pm
Phone call from distressed daughter "I've broke down in a really dodgy place, it's scary dad"

Never fails to amaze me how fast you can ride a bike when your child needs you.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 14 March, 2018, 09:49:00 am
Shorts this morning. Still had the thermal hat and gloves, but my knees enjoyed the airing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 14 March, 2018, 10:31:03 am
Quote from: Si S on 13 March, 2018, 07:56:21 pm
Phone call from distressed daughter "I've broke down in a really dodgy place, it's scary dad"

Never fails to amaze me how fast you can ride a bike when your child needs you.
Hope it all turned out OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 14 March, 2018, 11:00:53 am
Quote from: Tim Hall on 14 March, 2018, 10:31:03 am
Quote from: Si S on 13 March, 2018, 07:56:21 pm
Phone call from distressed daughter "I've broke down in a really dodgy place, it's scary dad"

Never fails to amaze me how fast you can ride a bike when your child needs you.
Hope it all turned out OK.

Cheers Tim, yeah all good. She's learning some of life's realities, like

1) A car is not a magic box that insulates you from the world
b) The words "Turn here- I know a short cut" are lethal

The next thing is

iii) keeping a pet gas guzzling dinosaur regularly involves taking it to the licence-to-print-money shop to feed it £££

She was warned over all this but we were all 18 once and knew absolutely everything.

I'm cream-crackered from it all though, sub 1 hour from Manc centre-Warrington into the wind in rush hour and then still managed to beat the recovery truck back  8) , didn't need this mornings headwind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 14 March, 2018, 07:24:40 pm
Work-bound 55mins and a lovely run it was too.  May have heard the first skylark of the year; 06:25 between Quenington & Donkeywell Farm for those taking notes.

Home-bound 1h 12 mins and knackered with it.  Unmitigated slog into wind.  See also Kim's post in Pub/What I have learnt today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 15 March, 2018, 06:40:16 am
Its raining - I shall get wet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 15 March, 2018, 08:13:54 am
Lurkers headwind and Tony's rain made all that a bit grim.  :( I know I say this every year but winter seems to have been going on an awful long time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 15 March, 2018, 09:00:33 am
Rain. My shiny new Brompton has got dirty wet splodges on it :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 15 March, 2018, 07:58:02 pm
Skylark is confirmed.  Heard and saw one at about 16:30 today.  Outskirts of Lechlade.

Don't care what the weather does this weekend, the skylarks are definitely in town so all's well with the world.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 15 March, 2018, 08:34:16 pm
Quote from: Guy on 15 March, 2018, 09:00:33 am
Rain. My shiny new Brompton has got dirty wet splodges on it :(

You can have a clean Brompton or a ridden Brompton.  There's no such thing as a clean, ridden Brompton.  (A substantial part of its genius is that most of the mucky bits are contained when folded.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 16 March, 2018, 09:59:20 am
Bimbling along the London CS7 this morning and there’s a chap with wheel off and tyre off. “Got everything you need ?” I cheerily shout.  “All good.” says he. Think no more of it.

Get to work, bike into the shared bike storage room (on any day there are perhaps ten people who cycle to work across the four or five companies in the building), into the shower, out of the shower and there’s someone just getting ready to go into the shower.

“Did you ask someone with a puncture if they were OK this morning ?”

What are the chances of that ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mustgettaller on 16 March, 2018, 12:37:17 pm
On the commute in my car today...

Chap by the side of the road fixing a puncture.

"You ok?".

"Erm... got a pump?"

Nipped back home (1/4 mile) to get my track pump.

One happy commuter. One increase in my karma I hope!  :)  O:-)

PS - first bike commute without long gloves yesterday, and it was all ok! (Glossing over the fact that this was because I'd left my long gloves on the drive the previous night and they were royally soaked).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 16 March, 2018, 01:40:06 pm
Visit to the dentist meant I was running late and they'd had time to put temporary lights up at the junction of Barton Road and Urmston Lane, I think they may have got the timings wrong, unless of course over a mile of stationary traffic was part of the plan, much to the amusement of myself and a guy on a motorbike I got chatting to at the front of the queue.

It was so bad I even gave up on filtering at one point and became a pedestrian. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 16 March, 2018, 07:25:02 pm
On tonight's ride home, I'm coming into the village I live in.
There's not a lot of traffic.
It's a slight downhill, but against a fairly strong headwind, and I'm on the aero extensions doing about 32kph.

A large 4wd coming towards me decides it's OK to turn right across my path, about 10 metres in front of me.
I let out a yell as I got up off the extensions to reach for the brakes.
This caused him to slam on his brakes, and stop exactly in the position where I was going to T-bone him.

I'm up off the extensions, braking hard with slightly wet rims, and swerved to pass him between his stern and the oncoming traffic in the opposite lane.
Hmm.


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 16 March, 2018, 07:29:07 pm
Thats quite exciting Feanor.

I'll be working form home for the foreseeable.  I'm trying to think of a wee run to mimic a commute (e.g., long way round to the co-op) so I feel alive by the time I sit in front of my computer.  It makes a huge difference for me. I have been commuting in Edinburgh where traffic was used to cyclists, and I had bus lanes, etc.  Around my home, the traffic is truly shit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 16 March, 2018, 07:35:04 pm
Used the infra on curry mile tonight, they should use that to test fighter pilot reaction times. Apparently what you do is exit shop, push buggy into cycle lane without looking, turnaround, re-enter shop and rely on a train of hippies and students not to mow your abandoned offspring over.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 16 March, 2018, 07:58:36 pm
Quote from: sg37409 on 16 March, 2018, 07:29:07 pm
Thats quite exciting Feanor.

I'll be working form home for the foreseeable.  I'm trying to think of a wee run to mimic a commute (e.g., long way round to the co-op) so I feel alive by the time I sit in front of my computer.  It makes a huge difference for me. I have been commuting in Edinburgh where traffic was used to cyclists, and I had bus lanes, etc.  Around my home, the traffic is truly shit.

I think that it's really hard to do artificial miles on a commute.

I used to ride 60k over the CoM to Montrose (and then the same back) a couple of times a week, but then my workplace closed down.
My new work was in Banchory, which was the first 16k of my old ride in, basically the warm-up.

I decided I'd try to replicate my old commute, and get up early and ride to the top of the CoM and then back down the way I'd come, back to Banchory.
That happened a grand total of about 3 times.

I just couldn't motivate myself to put in those artifical miles.
On the ride to Montrose, they were necessary miles and elevation, but here they were not.
It just didn't work for me.


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 16 March, 2018, 08:16:41 pm
^^ Been there with a commute up Llanberis Pass, the willpower required is phenomenal.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 19 March, 2018, 09:08:51 am
No shorts this morning! By 'eck that were cold.

edit: Just been told it was -5 this morning, wind chill making it feel like -8. No wonder it felt bloody cold!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 19 March, 2018, 08:00:52 pm
I'm going to have to change my route, leave earlier, or end up under an Astra van, this bloke is becoming a regular issue, this morning I felt the pannier move as he passed. Either that or trawl the area and torch the damn thing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 19 March, 2018, 08:33:43 pm
Quote from: Guy on 19 March, 2018, 09:08:51 am
No shorts this morning! By 'eck that were cold.

edit: Just been told it was -5 this morning, wind chill making it feel like -8. No wonder it felt bloody cold!
Especially with no shorts!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 20 March, 2018, 08:02:25 am
Left a few mins earlier to avoid Astra-van man, I object to this but discretion and valour and all that. Lack of evil wind and a bit of sunshine made for a pleasant commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 20 March, 2018, 08:23:10 am
Yesterday:
Going in (W <- ) was rather nice.  But coming home (-> E) was not fun.  That was made even worse just over 2km from home when I was nearly doored (narrow street, cars parked on both sides).  While I escaped injuries, an Ortlieb pannier didn't.  The opener of the car door at least came up to ask if I was OK, then added he didn't see me when he looked in the mirror.  He either opened the door long after looking in the mirror, or lied.  Makes not much difference, as I still need to check out if the bag can be repaired.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 20 March, 2018, 09:20:12 am
Or the mirror wasn't adjusted correctly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 20 March, 2018, 10:35:52 am
Cycled home into the wind, running late and puncture repair on my mind so it was only once I got home that I realised why my helmet was loose: I hadn’t clipped it shut.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cygnet on 20 March, 2018, 01:25:41 pm
Late commute today, and just as I was setting off from a set of lights, a slightly breathless yell "Oi, Mate"
Dude on foot had chased me from the previous lights to hand back a not insubstantial amount of cash that had fallen out of my bag.

Cheers unknown dude  :D :D :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 20 March, 2018, 01:28:33 pm
Cor !  Top bloke.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 20 March, 2018, 01:29:31 pm
Quote from: hatler on 20 March, 2018, 09:20:12 am
Or the mirror wasn't adjusted correctly.

Or he was looking for cars.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iZaP on 20 March, 2018, 02:03:46 pm
Almost got taken out by a bus @ bank junction...there was a line of busses and they left a gap open for another bus to come through from the other road, the bus was rolling through the gap, and I was going alongside the other buses, past the gap!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 21 March, 2018, 08:08:19 am
A beautiful sunny, clear, windless frosty morning, marred only by the two idiots speeding excessively - one on the wrong side of the road!

Can you guess how many rings these cars had on their grills?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 21 March, 2018, 08:21:18 am
Spring must be here - TheLurker gets skylarks and I get Lewis the Digger  :thumbsup: 

In other news coming through Urmston and I can hear <slap> <slap> <slap> look across and there's a guy wearing a rucksack, normal, a wet suit, slightly odd, and a pair of  fins, WTF? He was a good half mile from the Mersey.

Edit: I've just been told this is a regular thing : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vmiKd_l4OPw

The mind boggles
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 22 March, 2018, 08:16:03 pm
And today's work-bound run was almost stereotypically bucolic, I shall have to buy a smock and gaiters.  All sorts of wildlife (send SAE and postal order for 3/6d to "Lurker's Nature Notes" for more details) aaannnd muck spreading.  Poo urr gosh. Chiz, chiz, chiz.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 22 March, 2018, 08:39:51 pm
My first cycle commute in about 6 weeks. The mind remembers what to do but the legs tend to forget...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: D.A.L.E. on 22 March, 2018, 08:46:14 pm
My first commute to the new/old job today. 6km each way. Not a lot but wayyy better than the nothing I was doing at the old job.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 26 March, 2018, 09:21:40 pm
Notice on the gate, they're closing Irlam locks to remove the streetlights from out of the canal and fix the path, ah well it's all more miles.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 28 March, 2018, 02:36:42 pm
A white van couldn't wait behind me long enough for me to get across this crossing (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@52.932787,-1.47163,3a,75y,162.38h,88.47t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sm2I00kMOcT4-kzCKI2hMFw!2e0!7i13312!8i6656), so changed lanes.

Is that legal?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Diver300 on 28 March, 2018, 02:52:00 pm
Quote from: Paul on 28 March, 2018, 02:36:42 pm
A white van couldn't wait behind me long enough for me to get across this crossing (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@52.932787,-1.47163,3a,75y,162.38h,88.47t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sm2I00kMOcT4-kzCKI2hMFw!2e0!7i13312!8i6656), so changed lanes.

Is that legal?
No. It's a white van. Going to the right of a keep left sign. Not even emergency vehicles are allowed to do that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 29 March, 2018, 08:48:24 am
Got a heap of invective from hairdresser's wankpanzer-driving self-declared good driver and cyclist today for avoiding a large pothole so they couldn't overtake me on a road with cars parked on both sides. Apparently I:


The apoplectic so-called-cyclist cum motorist denied poor driving and bigotry despite the evidence they presented.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 29 March, 2018, 07:37:11 pm
Weird. Very, very, very weird. Some sort of splinter group of, "The Society of British Bedstead Men" has been out and about between Quenington and Lechlade.  Every few hundred yards for most of that stretch; an empty 7Up* can lying in the verge.  I didn't pay much attention to the first few, but after 10 or so you do start to pay attention.


*Or some other fizzy drink in a "narrow" green tin with large white polka dots on it. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rower40 on 03 April, 2018, 11:55:22 am
Opened Garage on Tuesday-after-Easter - noticed significant absence of the bike that I was expecting to ride to the station (1.5 miles away) on.

Then the penny dropped.  The skies on Maundy Thursday evening had been so threatening that I'd been given a lift home from the station.  Over the long weekend, we'd been so busy (and/or housebound by bank-holiday-rain) that I'd not made the trip to collect the bike, and it had remained at the station throughout.  Cue an urgent car trip to drop me off at station (and check that bike was still where I'd left it - phew).

 :facepalm:

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 04 April, 2018, 02:56:19 pm
Enforced route change so the first one on the canal, it's quite a pleasant trundle if you ignore the looneys on mountain bikes who think 20mph round a blind bend under a bridge is reasonable. An extra 2km but only an extra 10 mins despite a much lower speed, that'll be the lack of traffic lights.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 04 April, 2018, 03:16:34 pm
Quote from: Si S on 04 April, 2018, 02:56:19 pm
Enforced route change so the first one on the canal, it's quite a pleasant trundle if you ignore the looneys on mountain bikes who think 20mph round a blind bend under a bridge is reasonable. An extra 2km but only an extra 10 mins despite a much lower speed, that'll be the lack of traffic lights.

The lack of traffic lights, junctions, etc can make canals faster than the road at busy times.  Particularly if you ride like a loony on a mountain bike...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 04 April, 2018, 03:17:45 pm
Quote from: rower40 on 03 April, 2018, 11:55:22 am
Opened Garage on Tuesday-after-Easter - noticed significant absence of the bike that I was expecting to ride to the station (1.5 miles away) on.

Then the penny dropped.  The skies on Maundy Thursday evening had been so threatening that I'd been given a lift home from the station.  Over the long weekend, we'd been so busy (and/or housebound by bank-holiday-rain) that I'd not made the trip to collect the bike, and it had remained at the station throughout.  Cue an urgent car trip to drop me off at station (and check that bike was still where I'd left it - phew).

 :facepalm:

This is the inverse of Basil locking his bike up at a certain pub and noticing that he's got a bike just like the one that's already on the rack...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 04 April, 2018, 03:23:05 pm
Quote from: Kim on 04 April, 2018, 03:16:34 pm
Quote from: Si S on 04 April, 2018, 02:56:19 pm
Enforced route change so the first one on the canal, it's quite a pleasant trundle if you ignore the looneys on mountain bikes who think 20mph round a blind bend under a bridge is reasonable. An extra 2km but only an extra 10 mins despite a much lower speed, that'll be the lack of traffic lights.

The lack of traffic lights, junctions, etc can make canals faster than the road at busy times.  Particularly if you ride like a loony on a mountain bike...

I was pleasantly surprised, I may even stick with it when they re-open Irlam locks depending on how busy it gets when the weather warms up. If that particular loony is in so much of a hurry he'd be far better off developing the skills to ride up the stepped slope if he's in that much of a hurry, it's not hard even this incompetent hippy can do it on a road bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 05 April, 2018, 08:33:49 am
Tried to use the infra round the new bridge into Trafford Park at the AJ Bell Stadium last night, so two toucan crossings to go from the north side of the bridge to the south side, then beggar me, 200 metres later there's FIVE toucan crossings to go back to the north side. I just haven't got the patience for that, so down the dual carriageway it was, 4 mins to cover the 2km of dual carriageway, I reckon it would have taken me that just to cross back to the north side, not sure I've got the legs to do that every day on the commuter though.

This canal commuting is nearly as adrenaline fuelled as the roads, add to the crazy MTB'ers who for some reason won't get their tyres muddy, indecisive runny babbits, suicidal mallards and a very grumpy goose. I can see me going for a swim at some point.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: markcjagar on 05 April, 2018, 08:35:05 pm
The first sunny day where it was above 10*C which means the fishermen and yobbos are out by the Rotherham/Sheffield canal bumbling about drunk in shorts.

I might have to switch back to the road for the evening commute on the nice days.

Shame really because the surface on the canal path is smoother than the road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 06 April, 2018, 04:48:05 pm
According to the TfL webpage, the closure of Embankment, west of Chelsea Bridge, ceases this weekend, so this morning was my last chance to enjoy no risk of a left hook after crossing the bridge (https://goo.gl/maps/LVVXY1smrpv) on my way to work.

Ho hum.

They're also mucking about with roadworks at Queensberry Mews West (https://goo.gl/maps/UW8vCCJvBCU2) and at the Sloane Avenue / Pelham Street / Brompton Road junction (https://goo.gl/maps/J182RhfMCHp), neither of which improves my commute, but which are at least largely less of an encumbrance to me than they are to most of the motor vehicles that I pass ! ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 06 April, 2018, 05:16:20 pm
Quote from: Si S on 05 April, 2018, 08:33:49 am
Tried to use the infra round the new bridge into Trafford Park at the AJ Bell Stadium last night, so two toucan crossings to go from the north side of the bridge to the south side, then beggar me, 200 metres later there's FIVE toucan crossings to go back to the north side. I just haven't got the patience for that, so down the dual carriageway it was, 4 mins to cover the 2km of dual carriageway, I reckon it would have taken me that just to cross back to the north side, not sure I've got the legs to do that every day on the commuter though.


I rode the new bridge a couple of weeks ago to see what they'd done. They couldn't make it more inconvenient if they tried. What a mess.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 08 April, 2018, 06:37:46 am
Quote from: Andrew Br on 06 April, 2018, 05:16:20 pm
Quote from: Si S on 05 April, 2018, 08:33:49 am
Tried to use the infra round the new bridge into Trafford Park at the AJ Bell Stadium last night, so two toucan crossings to go from the north side of the bridge to the south side, then beggar me, 200 metres later there's FIVE toucan crossings to go back to the north side. I just haven't got the patience for that, so down the dual carriageway it was, 4 mins to cover the 2km of dual carriageway, I reckon it would have taken me that just to cross back to the north side, not sure I've got the legs to do that every day on the commuter though.


I rode the new bridge a couple of weeks ago to see what they'd done. They couldn't make it more inconvenient if they tried. What a mess.

What's really annoying is that:

1) They've blocked off the old path, no need for that - regular commuters have broken down the fence and are riding through the mud
b) They could have continued on the south side until Macro and crossed back north at the lights - but that would have required another 100 metres of tarmac.
iii) There was no need to push the cycleway to the south side in the first place, more than enough room on the north side.

On Friday I encountered Leigh guided busway:

(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/899/27405545148_2c82100312_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/HKJzM7)

That's how to do it, no anti-access gates, and when I encountered a couple of roads crossing it in Tyldesley the crossing lights changed almost instantly, I nearly fell off in shock at the lack of wait, it's not Dutch priority and when the path crosses the busway it's not sweeping enough but due to the path width it's not owl neck requirements. I'd give this a solid 8 out 10.

For those that are interested it intersects with the Tyldelsye loopline, then NCN55 at Roe Green in Salford. The other end runs pretty much back into the Bridgewater canal at Leigh. This is the best route to Leigh now since it eliminates the muddy section of the Bridgewater.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 08 April, 2018, 10:51:46 am
Yes, I found that last summer and it was brilliant!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 12 April, 2018, 08:45:04 am
That wind is becoming a real grind, so slow this morning and got a sore right foot, that'll be because I'm riding on the cleat bolts.  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 12 April, 2018, 08:54:51 am
Some schools are back today, and while it's not the whole cohort, it still impacts on the increase in traffic around our way, and impacts on the irritability of car drivers, it seems.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 12 April, 2018, 09:00:34 am
Gah !!  Got as far as Clapham before I realised I'd left my laptop at home. I'd like to think this belongs in the 'Things you only do once' thread, but sadly not. (Second time in 16 years. You think I would have learnt by now.) That spoilt my first day in shorts.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 12 April, 2018, 09:05:34 am
Cold drizzly fog. At least the torrential downpour had the decency to wait until I'd got indoors before enriching the lives of the Phase 2 trainees who are currently running round an round an round the football pitch in their shorts and t-shirts while being barked at by a PTI Sgt*



*If they can't take a joke they shouldn't have joined.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 12 April, 2018, 09:20:30 am
Quote from: hatler on 12 April, 2018, 09:00:34 am
That spoilt my first day in shorts.

 :o  It's 4 degrees with a 15mph NE wind here, it's feckin freezin, I'm still in longs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 12 April, 2018, 01:45:22 pm
"Why don't you use the cycle path?"

 :facepalm:

Oh, and what is it about my right arm that drivers can't see when it's sticking all the way out? I checked it carefully this morning and it looks like it should to me.

 ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 12 April, 2018, 08:06:34 pm
Quote from: Si S on 12 April, 2018, 09:20:30 am
:o  It's 4 degrees with a 15mph NE wind here, it's feckin freezin, I'm still in longs.
+1 here in the bottom RH corner of Glos.

Heard, but not seen, work-bound; Yellowhammers.  Think those are the first this year.  And to round it all off a "happy" hour spent this evening logging potholes (craters) and images on fillthathole
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 12 April, 2018, 09:31:45 pm
Traffic “chaos” tonight. Nothing chaotic about it. Lots of cars barely/not moving is much less chaotic than the normal state of affairs.

My ride home was largely unaffected. If you don’t count the high levels of smugness.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andrewc on 13 April, 2018, 09:59:48 am
Busted !   

My commute through Liverpool involves riding down Bold St and into the pedestrianized city centre area.

Bold St is awkward.   The top half is open to traffic and is one way in my direction of travel.  The bottom half (100M or so) is semi pedestrianized with access restricted by bollards, but is open to traffic against my direction of travel at certain times of the day for deliveries etc*.    I have always ridden straight down it , coexisting happily with the lorries & vans coming the other way.  I've never seen this cause a problem & am unaware of any issues or accidents.

This morning I came down as usual, crossed Hanover St using the pedestrian crossing & was one of several cyclists stopped by 2 policemen.   One** explained to me that I was breaking the law by riding against the traffic. Guilty as charged mate.   His colleague then asked if I wanted a free helmet , which I politely declined.  He then passed me to a 3rd person who was in civilian dress & gave me some leaflets on safe cycling & a map of Liverpool's cycle routes.  This chap then said that I couldn't carry on into the city centre as it's pedestrian only.   This is wrong & I told him so,  there are no entry signs at several places along Church St & Whitechapel , each of which has a smaller sign below it saying "except cycles" .  He didn't believe me so I took him up the street & pointed one out to him  ::-)        The only questionable cycling I've seen in this area is gangs of kids cutting through crowds of shoppers on BMX's , not early morning commuters.


Edit.  Just found an online map of Liverpool cycle routes which shows all of Bold St as a suggested route & says cycling is permitted in the central pedestrian area between 16:00 & 10:00.  https://www.merseyrail.org/media/115839/Liverpool%20Cycle%20Map.pdf (https://www.merseyrail.org/media/115839/Liverpool%20Cycle%20Map.pdf)

http://liverpool.gov.uk/parking-travel-and-roads/cycling/cycling-information/ (http://liverpool.gov.uk/parking-travel-and-roads/cycling/cycling-information/)

* There are plans to fully pedestrianize it in the pipeline.

** I knew this guy, I used to train with him at the same ju-jitsu club, we were friends & used to go out on the lash together. then he joined the police & drifted away from us.  We hadn't seen each other in over 20 years & he didn't recognise me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 13 April, 2018, 03:02:42 pm
Quote from: andrewc on 13 April, 2018, 09:59:48 am
This morning I came down as usual, crossed Hanover St using the pedestrian crossing & was one of several cyclists stopped by 2 policemen.   One explained to me (quite aggressively**) that I was breaking the law by riding against the traffic. Guilty as charged mate.   His colleague then asked if I wanted a free helmet , which I politely declined.  He then passed me to a 3rd person who was in civilian dress & gave me some leaflets on safe cycling & a map of Liverpool's cycle routes.  This chap then said that I couldn't carry on into the city centre as it's pedestrian only.   This is wrong & I told him so,  there are no entry signs at several places along Church St & Whitechapel , each of which has a smaller sign below it saying "except cycles" .  He didn't believe me so I took him up the street & pointed one out to him  ::-)        The only questionable cycling I've seen in this area is gangs of kids cutting through crowds of shoppers on BMX's , not early morning commuters.

What a waste of everyone's time.

Birmingham is surprisingly enlightened, in that cycling is permitted in the pedestrianised areas.  Of course they make up for this by making the city centre almost impenetrable to cyclists...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 13 April, 2018, 04:21:51 pm
Quote from: TheLurker
.... to round it all off a "happy" hour spent this evening logging potholes (craters) and images on fillthathole

How amusing.  Came home today and one of the sections I reported yesterday (the Salt Way, Hatherop turn onwards towards Lechlade) and just about every single pothole (and there are loads of 'em) was marked for repair.  Probably just a coincidence, but maybe not.  Mind you being marked up for repair means bugger all.  The potholes I reported at the end of Jan. by the Red Lion at Poulton were marked up weeks months ago and still haven't been done.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 13 April, 2018, 06:27:25 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 13 April, 2018, 04:21:51 pm
Mind you being marked up for repair means bugger all.

It means you get to sue them for bike/collarbone damage.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 13 April, 2018, 09:12:13 pm
Quote from: Kim
Quote from: TheLurker
Mind you being marked up for repair means bugger all.

It means you get to sue them for bike/collarbone damage.
Aye. It's one of the reasons I'm so diligent about logging them but I'd rather they spent the money fixing the bloody things quickly than forking it out for people/vehicle repairs and leaving them marked but unpatched for weeks on end.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 17 April, 2018, 08:09:14 am
Irlam locks are open again, as long as you ignore the 'temporary path unsuitable for bikes' sign, so I'm wearing grooves in the road again. I reckon United Utilities & Peel Holdings come from a different path surfacing school to Sustrans.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 17 April, 2018, 03:40:21 pm
(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/cycling/small.php?size=400&file=CommuteHome20180416.jpg) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/cycling/CommuteHome20180416.jpg)

Slightly illicit cycling on the pavement last night (at 11-30pm, so zero pedestrians around) around the roadworks on Garrad's Road (https://goo.gl/maps/E2JbGEB8zVN2) at the side of Tooting Bec Common.

(http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/cycling/small.php?size=400&file=CommuteIn20180417.jpg) (http://balius.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/cycling/CommuteIn20180417.jpg)

On the plus side, that meant shiny new tarmac this morning, so the first lot of crappy road (https://goo.gl/maps/j2vdgTFFZFL2) has been sorted (not terribly clear on Google Streetview, but there was a sequence of 'conveniently' placed potholes and general poor surfaces along that stretch).

The resurfacing machines seem to be parked up there, so I'm hoping they'll continue along with the next bit of road this evening, albeit I may need to find a better way to avoid it all, if I leave at a time with a greater incidence of pedestrians.  I'm crossing my fingers that eventually they'll get as far as the approach to the railway bridge (https://goo.gl/maps/EPAe12h5Sk12) on Bedford Hill, which last time they resurfaced, they seemed to carefully leave as it was, consequently it's degraded to a really poor sequence of potholes now.

Until this winter, that was the only really bad sequence of potholes on my entire commute, but the snow and ice this year seems to have opened up a bumper crop of a some really large dangerous potholes, none of which have yet seen any attempt at repair, even though several would pose a significant threat to buses or HGV's, let alone cyclists. :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 18 April, 2018, 08:27:28 am
Shorts! Woo and indeed hoo!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 18 April, 2018, 08:05:59 pm
What a morning! Warm, slight tailwind, freshly pumped tyres, freshly de-skogged and oiled chain, lights removed. Glorious. About the only thing wrong was that work wasn't far enough away.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 19 April, 2018, 08:03:32 am
Made the saddle and bar height tweaks to allow for summer shoes on the way in, that's next week's weather stuffed then.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 19 April, 2018, 09:01:31 am
First time cycling with just a T-Shirt on (yes, jeans as well, for those wags about to comment) and it's gloriously warm. Clear blue skies, no wind. Normalcy is returned to the amount of traffic, as the schools are fully back, and the little darlings have to be dropped off, despite the warm weather.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cycleman on 19 April, 2018, 07:15:50 pm
91miles yesterday to Basingstoke and back to visit Apollo . I then another 10 miles with Apollo on his stoke lodge bike before ridding back to slough. I stopped at Dinton pastures and had a pot of tea on the way out and was given a pasta bake with salad at stoke lodge for lunch . Although staff new I was coming we didn't tell Apollo so he was most surprised to see me .oh and I was very surprised to complete the ride on just one battery and still have 1 bar left on the display. It is not particularly hilly route though  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 20 April, 2018, 08:23:30 am
That's helluva commute cycleman  ;)

Slashed a tyre in a major way on a busted bottle, this on the tubeless bike, the plugs are holding but I was hoping to use these tyre's for Deano's ride next week and I don't think I trust the front with two such big gashes in over that terrain.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 20 April, 2018, 09:45:44 am
I commuted in yesterday for the second time this year. I sort of lost my mojo somewhere at the end of last year, crap weather and aggressive motorists, over and over, I just wasn't enjoying it. Anyway come January, the bike sat in the garage.

Yesterday probably didn't improve the motorists but it was a nice ride in, even along the dieselly A23. Unfortunately, owing to after-mothership beer, I decided to the get the train home. Which proved to be the sort of mistake that anyone who uses Southern trains is painfully familiar with (not entirely their fault, it seems someone had decided to place themselves in the way of a train, coupled with the usual array of signal failures). Anyway, getting a full-sized back onto overcrowded trains is always fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cycleman on 20 April, 2018, 07:37:59 pm
Oh bugger  :-[ that post should have gone into the have you been out today thread . If the mods wish to move it........... :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 23 April, 2018, 06:30:52 pm
Went on the grass to avoid woman on psyclepath, got shouted at to 'keep on your side". Then she realised her mutt (on obligatory extendable lead) had the entirety of the path.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 24 April, 2018, 11:57:14 am
This morning I had a challenge: I needed to get into town, pick up my laptop, get to a meeting on the other side of town (so, dressed in civvies all the way), coming back an alternate route and needing my laptop for a Dublin flight early tomorrow a.m. The obvious route was simply public transport, but I deeply loathe the squidgyness of all my local stations. My answer: try the new dockless bike rentals to Stratford, thence on public transport.

I joined both of my local schemes – ofo and urbo – and discovered that ofo appeared the most usable (drop anywhere inside the operating city) and there was a bike within 100m. Off I wombled, and no, I didn’t stop at Stratford, how could I squeeze onto a train when there was another option? and dropped my ofo bike on Southbank.

My ofo experience was interesting. The bike is a little lighter than the Doris Dykes, similar 3 speed gear train, small-ish front basket. Brakes appeared better, seat adjustment worse, the highest setting was too low for me, but I can see how casual users might prefer that, or not noticing. The position is very upright, along with trying not to work up too much of a sweat in civvies meant that it took half as long again as my normal commute, so likely c 9-10mph average overall. It was interesting joining team slow for the ride and, although the MGIF cycle path riders made it a less than relaxing experience (and I can see how they could be intimidating for new riders) overall I could just bimble. Only incident was someone who attempted to overtake up the inside as I was stopped for a ped on a zebra, clipping and narrowly avoiding a full on entanglement. In response to my assertion that he was being very clever, he explained this was his second day cycling, at which stage I was nicer to him.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 24 April, 2018, 01:52:17 pm
Quote from: TimO on 17 April, 2018, 03:40:21 pm
The resurfacing machines seem to be parked up there, so I'm hoping they'll continue along with the next bit of road this evening ...

They didn't, they just parked all their equipment on the road for several days, before it was presumably needed elsewhere.  It disappeared with no further work.  Oh well, some removed potholes is better than no removed potholes !

Last night, they closed my route across Sloane Square, so I had to get creative with the pedestrian crossings.  Looking on the appropriate webpages (http://public.londonworks.gov.uk/roadworks/home), it seems that this route should be clear tonight. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 25 April, 2018, 07:24:34 pm
Overtook and very briefly chatted to another cyclist this morning. I commented that it was very busy (for Somerset values of busy, of course). His response was that it was to do with it being Wednesday.  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 26 April, 2018, 08:25:13 am
I got a lesson in just how fast a strong rider on a fast bike that's been electrified can go. Coming through the dip on Church Road I knew he was on my wheel but I'm pretty quick up the other side so didn't think too much of it, but bugger me he came past like I was standing still, doing 25 mph on the false flat to Urmston (massive tailwind) the gap was steady, it wasn't until the run under the M60 and I could wind it up past 30mph that I caught him, he had a major surprise wobble when he realised I'd managed to close the gap, then he sat on my wheel for the next 3 miles.

I'm supposed to be taking it easy  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 29 April, 2018, 09:49:26 pm
Me. For the first time this year and I can't remember when I last rode in.
The difference today was a sensible start time (07.15) and a favourable weather forecast.
When I got up it was raining but I resisted the siren call of the duvet and the extra hour in bed that it would have granted and I was rewarded by a dry but cold ride to work.
On the way home I detoured for pre-arranged beers with friends (TT Landlord if you're interested) and then it was back to theirs for dinner.
Lovely, and I feel ever so virtuous.

I'm not sure when I'll ride in again.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 30 April, 2018, 09:00:51 am
Longs were back on this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 30 April, 2018, 01:18:39 pm
Blue bmw went past me this am and the driver had a large tupperware box in her left hand and on stopping in the queue at a roundabout to join the M62 she had her spoon in her r/h to continue her breakfast  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: lahoski on 01 May, 2018, 12:48:13 pm
I doned a commute today. And it was sunny. And only one prat (a WANKPANZER which overtook as some traffic lights changed and cut in whilst braking. Which would have been okay, except for the 8ft trailer they were towing.).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tippers_kiwi on 01 May, 2018, 02:57:24 pm
Tooted at by a bus driver where there were 2 lanes so no shortage of space for him to pass. I noticed him signalling towards the cycle lane painted on the footpath. I smiled, waved and thought what a knob....

Mostly I really enjoy my commute and have little or no problem with cars/busses etc. I must say though, the number of people I see just bowl through red lights on bikes I can sometimes see where the drivers irritation comes from but there are PLENTY of cars going through reds as well! Anyway, it's still more fun than taking a stuffy, packed tube!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: toontra on 01 May, 2018, 03:16:50 pm
Traveling on (what used to be) the Tottenham Hale gyratory along Monument Way (clockwise) and keeping up with traffic when I got a deafening blast of horn from the artic directly behind me - then another - and another.  As we parted ways when I peeled left & him right, we both slowed to "have a word".  "You're not allowed on this road" he opined in a very broad east european accent. 

That took the wind out of my sails - I wasn't expecting that, more the usual anti-cyclist crap.  A second later I confirmed in my own mind that of course I was allowed on that road, but a split second too late to pass the information on to to multi-wheeled twat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SoreTween on 02 May, 2018, 08:51:16 pm
First commutes since mid December this week due to a posting to Italy.  Didn't commute there by bike despite having one with me as the road between Marina di Massa and Marina di Carrara averaged one death per month.
Back in Woking I was worried my mojo would take a hit having DNF'd a ride at the weekend and finding myself massively unfit for the pimples in these parts.  Nah, grinning like a loon tonight under clear blue skies.  The pint of Thurstons Best and another of Dorking Dark Noise helped but it's there alright.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: vorsprung on 02 May, 2018, 09:03:50 pm
Got back to the rack at the railway station after a 45 minute train ride following a hard day chained to a hot computer

The rear on the Ridley was stone cold flat and I didn't have a pump with me

Had to phone up for the van.  Fortunately Mrs V was at home
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 03 May, 2018, 08:27:10 am
Found a transit van towing a water bowser to chase, enjoyed that, got some legs again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Christophe on 03 May, 2018, 10:44:43 am
I have been fortunate enough for the last 3 years to have been able to cycle commute on and off road around the more picuresque parts of Essex. I have a variety of very pleasant routes and traffic and trouble free ways of getting in and out of the busy bits near my work. That is until last night.
Merrily making my way along the Blackwater rail trail out of Maldon when was disturbed by a large beast of an animal which jumped out of a hedge beside me and chased my for a good few hundred yards with me doing my best impression of Chris Hoy on a SS off road bike on a dirt track. Turns out to have been a f**k off great Alsatian let loose by very irresponsible owners. Usual response of 'ooh he's only being friendly' and 'he just wants to play'. Did he f**k. He was trying to take my leg off.
Fucking ignorant fucking dog owners.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: toontra on 03 May, 2018, 11:22:44 am
He was just wanting to play with your severed leg  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jakob W on 03 May, 2018, 03:35:20 pm
What's the legal situation if you go all Richard Ballantine on the slavering hound?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 03 May, 2018, 05:09:26 pm
Cycling out of town in 30mph zone - cars queuing in opposite direction into town.   I move around a pothole and hear a beep from behind, cue Hilux-man giving me about half an arms length of room. I caught him up at the lights...

 Hilux:  What the f*ck you doing moving into my space mate?
- You have to give cyclists room - we need to avoid potholes.
Hilux: How do I see a pothole?   ::-)
- Just look out for me.
Hilux:  I don't give a f*ck about you.
- That's obvious isn't it?
<lights go green, he pulls away>
 - 'I'm a human being!'  (spur of the moment thing, you know.  I have thought of other things I could have said but oh well)

500m up the road he's pulled into a small lay-by deliberately, expecting me to cycle passed his open window, but i do my normal divert onto the dual-use path just before Hilux, as I hear him say something about cycle tracks.

 >:( ::-)

Live and learn next time I'll take the primary all the way, if there's queuing traffic on the other side, and pick up the pace slightly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 03 May, 2018, 05:55:21 pm
Due to complications with the car yesterday, I ended up leaving my cycling shoes at work, so had to ride in wearing trainers instead. Weird after more than ten years of only wearing proper cycling shoes. Not nice. I think everything is now back where it should be.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 03 May, 2018, 07:26:02 pm
Well the worst thing that happened on my commute was the damned oil seed rape, but I'm still going to whinge about it; bloody evil smelling weed that it is. Wanders off to see how much discount you can get on a bulk purchase of napalm.....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: markcjagar on 03 May, 2018, 10:29:36 pm
Two arseholes close passing whilst pointing at the shit show shared-use path alongside Penistone Rd.

Neither wanted to have an adult conversation about the matter when I caught them at the next set of lights, the first simply ignored me, the second just shouted "blah blah blah" at me.

How do these people get driving licenses?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 03 May, 2018, 10:44:57 pm
On the basis of a decent weather forecast, I did an extended ride home which was about 55k.
But the forecast lied, and I had 2 hours of cold wet winds.
With a stupid heavy rucksack.

https://www.strava.com/activities/1547505118
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 04 May, 2018, 07:05:14 am
Quote from: markcjagar on 03 May, 2018, 10:29:36 pm
Two arseholes close passing ...
How do these people get driving licenses?
Free in every family sized packet of cornflakes because any sensible system of issuing permits to be in control of a lethal weapon would automatically reject them.  Assuming  the driver has licence.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 04 May, 2018, 11:14:39 am
Irritating as it is you know that the conversation never ends well. i just stay quiet as hopefully they are out my bubble never to be seen again or if there is queuing traffic get ahead of them. the job is to get about safely and unless there car is damaged they will never listen to your side of the story
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 08 May, 2018, 08:56:03 am
When your wife assure's you that she's emptied everything from the weekends camping trip out of the car, don't believe her, otherwise you end up wearing winter boots in a heatwave  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 08 May, 2018, 09:43:19 am
Leaving work after a hard shift, I get changed and get to the Allez about midnight. Out of the locker, onto the road, right cleat into peda and push off.

Clang. Lug holding rear mech has fractured. Bike could, therefore, be a write-off. Not happy is a massive understatement. There is no way I could afford to replace it. Fortunately, one of the lads at work offers to put the wreckage in his hatchback and run me home. Dragged MTB out of porch, soaked long unused but clean chain in lube and pumped tyres. Seems to be fine this morning; just need to switch lights over.

Arsebollocks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 08 May, 2018, 10:34:56 am
Quote from: Steph on 08 May, 2018, 09:43:19 am
Leaving work after a hard shift, I get changed and get to the Allez about midnight. Out of the locker, onto the road, right cleat into peda and push off.

Clang. Lug holding rear mech has fractured. Bike could, therefore, be a write-off. Not happy is a massive understatement. There is no way I could afford to replace it. Fortunately, one of the lads at work offers to put the wreckage in his hatchback and run me home. Dragged MTB out of porch, soaked long unused but clean chain in lube and pumped tyres. Seems to be fine this morning; just need to switch lights over.

Arsebollocks.
Aluminium frame? Is the lug integral to the frame or a  bolt on bit?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 08 May, 2018, 10:49:23 am
Haven't had a look at it properly yet, but the drop outs have inserts. I suspect the lug is integral

Or rather 'was'.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 08 May, 2018, 10:59:11 am
It is ab arm, the mech hanger, part of the frame.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 08 May, 2018, 11:20:26 am
Usually replaceable with Al frames.
https://www.evanscycles.com/specialized-derailleur-hanger-4291-EV216403
A photo might help.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 08 May, 2018, 11:29:55 am
Can't upload pics here. And it is not the actual hanger but the part of the frame--the lug--that the hanger bolts to.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 08 May, 2018, 11:34:17 am
That is a bit of a bugger then. Some Al frames can be welded fairly easily.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 08 May, 2018, 02:47:44 pm
What size frame do you take?

Sent from my SM-G930F using Tapatalk

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 08 May, 2018, 07:59:56 pm
My plan is to take it along to my LBS, which is within walking and bike-carrying distance, and see what he says about welding. If he can do it/knows AMWC, I shall go from there.

I have my Sardar ready for events later this year, and I spent an interesting time riding my fat-and-chunky tyred Marin hardtail to work. It only cost me £140 in 1994, so I have had my money's worth out of it as a cross-country hack. The Allez is 12 years old.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 09 May, 2018, 08:01:06 pm
...and I had forgotten how much I enjoy riding the MTB, as I discussed with a colleague. She gave me the punchline:

"How much I enjoyed...as long as it stayed warm and dry!"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 09 May, 2018, 08:12:38 pm
There have been unfeasibly more traffic jams every day this week than I've ever seen. Does the sunshine drag folk out into their cars?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 09 May, 2018, 08:32:34 pm
Quote from: LittleWheelsandBig on 09 May, 2018, 08:12:38 pm
There have been unfeasibly more traffic jams every day this week than I've ever seen. Does the sunshine drag folk out into their cars?

I have a feeling that this is when councils spend all their dosh on road works so the governments gives them even more money next month or has that been and gone ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SoreTween on 09 May, 2018, 09:24:12 pm
Quote from: Steph on 08 May, 2018, 07:59:56 pm
My plan is to take it along to my LBS, which is within walking and bike-carrying distance, and see what he says about welding. If he can do it/knows AMWC, I shall go from there.
Are you thinking Mellow Miles? If so beware, he suffers from body part dyslexia1. The person I last used for Al welding in Copthorne will have long shuffled off his highly skilled mortal coil unfortunately. I shall insult (required) and then consult a mate in Horley who is one of those that knows everybody.

1Doesn't know his arse from his elbow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 10 May, 2018, 01:05:31 pm
Quote from: LittleWheelsandBig on 09 May, 2018, 08:12:38 pm
Does the sunshine drag folk out into their cars?
Sun, rain, hot, cold, school run, work, leisure, shopping, weekday, weekend, shopping; everything gets people into their cars.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 10 May, 2018, 01:30:33 pm
Quote from: Paul on 10 May, 2018, 01:05:31 pm
Quote from: LittleWheelsandBig on 09 May, 2018, 08:12:38 pm
Does the sunshine drag folk out into their cars?
Sun, rain, hot, cold, school run, work, leisure, shopping, weekday, weekend, shopping; everything gets people into their cars.

Sunshine makes them open the windows and be shouty.  Or drive to the local park.  If it's really sunny in Birmingham, they'll drive all the way into the park (https://twitter.com/PeterSmallbone/status/993168882671157250).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 11 May, 2018, 08:31:03 am
Change of scene for a nice Friday, through the linear park and down the NCN on the best bike. I'm going to have to slow down mind, I had no idea I was moving that quick, that bike is just so easy to ride fast on that terrain these days, even with a headwind. Possibly worthy of a DOTD post  :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: markcjagar on 11 May, 2018, 06:46:39 pm
Took a slightly more scenic route the last 2 evenings, even did some climbing, it's been quite enjoyable.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 11 May, 2018, 07:01:27 pm
First Hirundine, couldn't say if Swallow or Martin, of the year.    Huzzah!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 12 May, 2018, 04:40:35 am
Quote from: SoreTween on 09 May, 2018, 09:24:12 pm
Quote from: Steph on 08 May, 2018, 07:59:56 pm
My plan is to take it along to my LBS, which is within walking and bike-carrying distance, and see what he says about welding. If he can do it/knows AMWC, I shall go from there.
Are you thinking Mellow Miles? If so beware, he suffers from body part dyslexia1. The person I last used for Al welding in Copthorne will have long shuffled off his highly skilled mortal coil unfortunately. I shall insult (required) and then consult a mate in Horley who is one of those that knows everybody.

1Doesn't know his arse from his elbow.

That would be spiffy, ta
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 12 May, 2018, 10:23:13 pm
Steph, I'll ask my chum with the unfeasibly well equipped garage in Vicarage Lane too,if needed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 14 May, 2018, 03:24:49 pm
For the first time in about a couple months, I rode my bike to work.

I'm pretty sure someone made those hills steeper.

D.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: markcjagar on 14 May, 2018, 06:28:40 pm
Very steady and peaceful except the prick on a motorbike on the canal path wearing a full balaclava whilst it's 20*C
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 15 May, 2018, 10:18:18 am
Late leaving due to trying to get a poorly dog to swallow it's pills, so pycho astra-van driver again with the close pass and an added swerve to the gutter this time  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 15 May, 2018, 02:29:42 pm
Chilly this morning, but not as cold as yesterday morning's Motown temperatures (3 degrees, 4 tops).  Lovely riding home though, despite the bulging Carradice containing all the extra clothing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 16 May, 2018, 11:49:45 am
There are always some drivers who hang back waiting for 2 or 3 oncoming vehicles, then the impatience threshold is reached, and no more... They floor it, in desperate attempt not to wait another second, and almost have a head on.  Dolts.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 16 May, 2018, 02:49:40 pm
Indeed. And sometimes it's on a narrow, hump-back bridge with little visibility (because of the hump), requires crossing a solid white line, and the car is a police vehicle*.

(*okay, police dog van, but still - you'd expect them to consider the irony, if not the law).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 16 May, 2018, 08:01:09 pm
Yup.  Had that on the way home today as well.  Pillocks.

However the prize for idiocy has to go to the berk in the red hatchback with an Orbea TT (or possibly triathlon) bike on the rear who overtook the car behind me (and myself obv.) by going around the wrong side of a large grass "island" with restricted visibility because the driver behind me was, quite sensibly, waiting until we'd got past the pinch point caused by said grass "island".

A less than satisfactory day today.  Headwind in both directions (how!?) and a damned irritating click/clunk on mashing the pedals surfaced on the way home.  I expect it's the annual "RH pedal has worked infinitesimally loose again" but still it _is_ irritating.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 17 May, 2018, 11:19:21 am
A most disconcerting wobble in the bike’s nethers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 18 May, 2018, 11:55:44 am
Bike shop did that traditional suck-air-through-the-teeth that every mechanic does (before I inevitably kill them to death, patronising shit bags). Something bottom bracket and demise thereof related. Apparently not a tightening job. Fortunately, I took the train home (due to beer) and it made from the station to home without calamity. I expect my own wobbles cancelled out those of the bicycle. I didn't try the final hill, it involves honking and my testicles are too precious (to me, at least) to dash them on the crossbar.

I think it might be time to replace my trusty stead with something that isn't derived from a 2006-era cheapo MTB made out of neutronium. If I ask a shop to replace the BB they'll probably notice that everything else needs replacing. Then suck that air through those teeth before mocking my lack of mechanical knowledge.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonJo on 18 May, 2018, 12:17:58 pm
Quote from: ian on 18 May, 2018, 11:55:44 am
Something bottom bracket and demise thereof related. Apparently not a tightening job.

I think it might be time to replace my trusty stead with something that isn't derived from a 2006-era cheapo MTB made out of neutronium.

Your bb has lasted 12 years. Be careful when buying a new bike - those press fit bottom brackets are designed to run silently until you get home. For ever after it will creak and groan like a tea clipper in a Southern ocean gale.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 18 May, 2018, 01:00:21 pm
Hmm, I did have replaced about five years back – the shop replaced the entire drive train gubbins and the replacement crankset didn't agree with the original BB, so that was done too. Anyway, it's an unsophisticated one. The bike itself has been creaking like a unseaworthy galleon for a while, but I think that's the chain and other parts. Possibly pirate ghosts.

All said, the bike cost me £130 new back in 2006, and it's done many thousands of miles in all weathers. The frame, forks, handlebars and front wheel are unadjusted originals. The backend couldn't keep up with my furious pedalling. I dare people to steal it. They'd probably bring it back.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 18 May, 2018, 01:49:52 pm
No idea what is up with my legs today, knew straightaway this morning I'd got nothing, now they really, really ache  ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Torslanda on 18 May, 2018, 04:00:47 pm
Too much salt in last night's takeaway? In addition to being just old, my hips hurt like hell the morning after a 'cheat' night...

Re: Astra van. Anyone know why we *can't* have Exocet missiles fitted...?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 18 May, 2018, 04:34:47 pm
Quote from: Torslanda on 18 May, 2018, 04:00:47 pm
Too much salt in last night's takeaway? In addition to being just old, my hips hurt like hell the morning after a 'cheat' night...

Re: Astra van. Anyone know why we *can't* have Exocet missiles fitted...?

Actually I'm wondering if it's lack of salt, Mrs S has a thing about salt and it's been a bit warm lately.

Astra van - an exocet is going to be too quick and painless, the guy's a first class twunt, I did wonder if it's personal but I've seen him do exactly the same shit to other cyclists.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 18 May, 2018, 06:22:10 pm
Nice summer evening, and it's Friday.
So I opted for a longer route home tonight, coming in at 55k.
Now I'm having a beer.

https://www.strava.com/activities/1580216444
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 21 May, 2018, 08:42:03 pm
Wetter than an incontinent Marti Pellow's undergarments. Thunderstorm and torrential rain over south-east London, with another fifteen miles home, the prospect of combining the two triathlon events that don't involve running didn't appeal so I baled for the nearest bus shelter. Which proved provident as the sky choose that moment to really open up in a thunderous flush of god's almighty cistern. Lots of cyclists slooshed past evidently thinking why didn't I do that five minutes ago? You could see from the looks on their faces that the icy deluge had already claimed their pants and once you've lost them there's no point stopping. It's not possible to get wetter. You could be tied to a big rock and dropped in the Mariana Trench and you wouldn't get that wet.

One young woman had evidently had enough and piled into my bus shelter. She was very wet. Now I know I'm a gentleman of ill-repute, but you'll have to take my word I was finding a lot of interesting things to look at that weren't contiguous with a woman in tight wet clothes that had turned near transparent. Trees. My shoes. The pavement. A dog. The sky. Clouds. Rain. Litter. Cars. Houses. For sale signs. To let signs. Discarded newspapers. Puddles. Rocks. Walls. Railings. Gravestones. Shrubs. Weeds. Grass. It was going quite well. At least three uneventful seconds had passed and I hadn't even nearly run out of things not wearing wet lycra to find interesting. Then she sighed loudly and said I may as well be naked.

Now if I were sensible I would have accepted this rhetorical overshare for what it was, made a noncommittal noise and started to count raindrops or somesuch. If. And if I hadn't had my conversation centre replaced with the mechanism from an old pub fruit machine where the symbols have been taped over with bits of masking tape with random words written on them. My brain put in 10p and pulled the lever. The reels spun and despite my brain saying no, no, no, I had to say what comes up on the first reel. Which was yes. Brilliant ian, brilliant.

Anyway, embarrassment aside, I gave her my not-especially-waterproof and slightly smelly jacket to protect her modesty for the remainder of her journey (not by much, she should have found a fat bloke). She insisted on giving me her phone number so I could go get it back.

I just explained this to my wife, who was at great pains to point out that it was an old and smelly jacket that needed replacing, and how far out of my way it would be for me to collect it, and anyway, she'll get me replacement, no bother at all.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 21 May, 2018, 09:12:35 pm
:-)

Very loud laughs here to that account.

That storm skimmed me just a tiny bit. I think I had three drops hit me on the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 21 May, 2018, 10:34:14 pm
I'm now mildly terrified it's someone here.

In which case, I'll add context that her comment was a less a declaration and more a lament on the perils of wearing pale blue leggings and a small white t-shirt during a thunderstorm. Outside of the context of a rap video.

It's probably also a reminder that I've hit the age were I'm sexually irrelevant to any female under the age of 25 and most of those above. And it's true, my brain is built out of tired machines.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 22 May, 2018, 11:38:06 am
Too much Thought Leading leaves your head-branez in no fit state to do anything else.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 22 May, 2018, 10:49:24 pm
Got my annual squeaky bum moment this evening when a small articulated with an additional trailer passed me - then forgot about his trailer.

That got a "FUCK!"

Hopefully that's it for another year.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 23 May, 2018, 01:30:35 am
Only the 3rd time this year because 14.15 start (and, therefore, 22.15 finish although I was on my way at 21.30).
It was sunny on the way in and slightly cool on the way home.
I tried counting the traffic lights and pelicans. If I've done it correctly; 38 on the way there, 41 on the return plus a temporary set which I've discounted.
There aren't as many on the way in because I cut a corner in Cheadle and miss 2 pelicans and 1 traffic light. Corner cutting in ChorltonCH in both directions also eliminates 2 pelicans and a traffic light.
It's 17km each way.
I may have passed peak bike commute since I'm moving to a different shift pattern next month. That'll mean either very early starts or very late finishes. I'll not be getting up at 03.00 instead of 04.00 for the am shifts and I'm not going to relish getting home at 01.00 for pm shifts.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 23 May, 2018, 08:13:13 am
Since it was so nice I took the scenic route up the canal last night and then went for a tailwind blast across Irlam Moss, which very nearly went wrong on the first speed bump on Twelve Yards road after I forgot the pannier was fairly full and didn't put enough oomph into the bunny hop  :facepalm:

Steady cruise into a bit of a draggy wind this morning
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 24 May, 2018, 08:21:48 am
I tested my NEW! SHINY! Mountain Whor Warehouse cycling jacket this morning.

Poxy rain.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 24 May, 2018, 07:59:16 pm
Well.  That was jammy.  Expecting to get soaked today. Didn't.  Rain more or less stopped by 05:30 and bone dry for the ride home instead of the wall to wall wet that was forecast.  Hah! for your utterly rubbish met. reports weather boffins.

Had a pleasant game of Periodic Table bingo (1st two letters new* style car number plates - any 5 elements to "win" no repeats allowed) on the way to work.  Got gold, copper and sodium this morning.  Have never yet got 5.

No rabbits whatsoever. Very, very unusual for this time of year. Normally I would expect to see one or two every few hundred yards for most of the leg to Poulton  Wondering if the RHD2 virus has reached the local population.


*Yes, yes I do know the format is knocking on towards 20 years old now but if we can describe a 900 odd year old wood as the "New" Forest then I'm going to call them "new" number plates.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 25 May, 2018, 08:11:06 am
Last night was glorious in Manc-land so before the rains came I decided to use the NCN/tracks out of Chorlton Water Park to Urmston and was rewarded with Parakeets.

Managed to get in before the rain this morning too, which was good since it was ruddy hard work with empty legs and a nagging headwind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 25 May, 2018, 06:04:57 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 24 May, 2018, 07:59:16 pm
*Yes, yes I do know the format is knocking on towards 20 years old now but if we can describe a 900 odd year old wood as the "New" Forest then I'm going to call them "new" number plates.

I still haven't got the hang of it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 25 May, 2018, 06:18:17 pm
Well the dry, hot commuting week failed at the final hurdle, and I'd only taken my Featherlite smock. Of course the rain started as I was unlocking my bike and stopped 15 mins after I got home. ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 25 May, 2018, 09:39:32 pm
I got very bedraggled here in France. Warm and pleasant rain though. One motorist took pity on me as I rolled up the ramp to the roundabout at the top of town and stopped to let me go ahead - unfortunately I had slowed to pass behind them and instead came to a stop as they did. Pedals at six o'clock, fixed, heavy panniers and a steep uphill start meant I must have looked particularly ungainly as well as ungrateful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 02 June, 2018, 02:51:38 pm
I rode into work on my day off today, as my extra jobs in diversity eat up my time off. As I was only going to stay a couple of hours and work at one office by the South Terminal, I didn't bother riding down to the other end, locking the bike in the pod, walking back, etc, and instead locked the bike to one of the Sheffield stands in the bike parking area.

I got a very nice surprise: Gatwick have set up a workstand/tools on lengths of security cable/track pump affair, reminiscent of the sort of thing I saw on the Danube route. Wonderful!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 09 June, 2018, 04:01:30 am
Off camber gravel corner at the entrance to Daisy Nook Park, trackstanding while fiddling with the GPS, route decided, drive power through right pedal....ooo....Artistic Impression 6, Audience Satisfaction 10, Gore 2.

Bike's fine.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SoreTween on 11 June, 2018, 11:00:14 am
First I encountered Moses in Bracknell (driving at this point). He tried to undertake at a set of lights expecting the traffic to part and make room for him to merge back in. I wasn't minded to slow to make a gap for him and couldn't move to the right to create one so he had to abort. Cue overtake and much brake testing until I pointed to the camera.

Next (on the bike now) I'm riding the centre line to keep out of the door zone, parked cars on left round a left bend. XC90 overtakes and finds himself looking at an oncoming car. Drop back? No, just move left leaving me handlebar width + 6"

Finally, something a wee bit smaller than an XC90 totally failed to give way on a roundabout, first skid stop on a Brompton.  Despite my patience wearing thin at the give way 30 yards later I helpfully polished some dirt off his door using the sole of my shoe forgetting I was wearing SPDs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: lahoski on 11 June, 2018, 12:56:25 pm
Quote from: SoreTween on 11 June, 2018, 11:00:14 am
... forgetting I was wearing SPDs.
Don't you just hate it when that happens!?  8)

Despite the cockwomble who deliberately broke the speed limit to ensure they could 'take priority' at a chicane, I had a lovely commute... a smattering of slightly-too-close passes is all. But the sun made up for it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 12 June, 2018, 11:21:22 pm
Overtaking the slow-moving motorised traffic I was almost right hooked by a land-rover turning right into a forecourt. Driver at least indicated (if not checked mirror), giving me an additional second to consider my options. I accelerated clear with inches to spare.

I found it really exciting!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 13 June, 2018, 08:44:24 am
A South-Westerly breeze this morning. The first time in months that I've not had a head-wind up Sodding-Great-Hill-With-Added-Speed-Humps :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 14 June, 2018, 09:17:09 am
Ruddy Met Office, where's my roaring tailwind?  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mustgettaller on 14 June, 2018, 02:42:44 pm
Quote from: Si S on 14 June, 2018, 09:17:09 am
Ruddy Met Office, where's my roaring tailwind?  >:(

Ruddy Met Office - where did that rain come from this morning? I got soaked running in. Oh, running, I wasn't cycling.  ??? Oh well. I cycled yesterday.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 14 June, 2018, 02:53:45 pm
Today was taken at quite a modest pace, given that I was off work ill yesterday and still sound pretty grim. I figure that if I'm not well enough to ride in, I'm not well enough to work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: EllysH on 14 June, 2018, 03:26:26 pm
Today was done at a comfortable pace which then became slower as the person riding ahead of me seemed to think I was trying to chase them.

It was weird.

Sent from my PLK-L01 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 14 June, 2018, 06:02:55 pm
Pretty much std conditions here today, bit of headwind with the odd gust workbound and one hour door to door so much as usual.  Of course the leaf cover on the hedgerows at this time of year helps enormously; especially with any sort of side wind.

Odd thing.  There is a half mile stretch that I _cannot_ remember riding this morning.  And I must have ridden it because there is no alternative at that point. Complete and utter blank.  I can remember the rest of the trip, but not that bit.  Don't think I've ever had that happen on the bike before.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 14 June, 2018, 06:45:10 pm
Coming home into the headwind. Get to the edge of Yeovil. They are top-dressing the NSL bit between Yeovil and our village. There's a sign saying 'road blocked, please find alternative route'. Now, I realise that in almost every circumstance it is possible to get a bike through that sort of thing, but if not, the alternatives would all be hard work. So I had to come via the back lanes which are much steeper. And I'm out of practice!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 14 June, 2018, 10:34:03 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 14 June, 2018, 06:02:55 pm
Pretty much std conditions here today, bit of headwind with the odd gust workbound and one hour door to door so much as usual.  Of course the leaf cover on the hedgerows at this time of year helps enormously; especially with any sort of side wind.

Odd thing.  There is a half mile stretch that I _cannot_ remember riding this morning.  And I must have ridden it because there is no alternative at that point. Complete and utter blank.  I can remember the rest of the trip, but not that bit.  Don't think I've ever had that happen on the bike before.

Happens to me all the time. I can ride (or walk) for miles with no recollection of having done so. I have a fine autopilot. This why rather than turn across Clapham Common this morning to head across the river to Sloan Sq/Knightsbridge, I found myself waiting at the lights by Oval tube station.

Anyway, was going to get the train home but decided to cycle, which I suspect was a good choice. An absence of stupid drivers and weirdly, when I really needed to stop for a piss (I might have had a swift pint after work), there was an actual public toilet, right there, and despite it being past 9pm it was open. I thought they were extinct.

There will undoubtedly be a karmic rebalancing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 15 June, 2018, 09:26:51 am
Actual, I think it might have happened earlier in the trip. It started to drizzle heavily somewhere about Snorbury, the sort that gets everywhere. So I pulled over and reached into my pannier for my trusty and slightly smelly rain jacket.

My wife never did follow up on her promise to replace it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 15 June, 2018, 08:19:17 pm
I've had the zen moment on the bike. Used to be able to commute via bike years back and used to be a dark stretch between two towns. Turned on both bulbs of the cat eye lights and then I was in the next town. Only about five minutes but had just passed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 16 June, 2018, 08:11:13 am
I persuaded a mate to join me on an extension to Werneth Low last night. Out via the floop, Reddish Vale and round the back of Bredbury Industrial estate. Glorious on the Low and not as steep as I'd expected, stunning views with the planes stacking overhead.

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1755/42771720772_c1da4d1720_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/28aAfrA)

Really tricky farm track descent to Compstall, cross country to Stockport followed by the TPT to Northenden where we parted company and he took to the roads home, I cut through Timperley to get on the Bridgewater before joining the TPT again until it was time to head over Warby bridge to meet my wife at the pub.

Top 10 commute that, best for long time, not sure my mate will agree, he had a visitation shortly after we parted and I was carrying all the spare tubes  :facepalm:

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 18 June, 2018, 09:53:45 pm
Friday legs.

[checks calendar]

Oh bugger.  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: EllysH on 18 June, 2018, 10:09:35 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 18 June, 2018, 09:53:45 pm
Friday legs.

[checks calendar]

Oh bugger.  :(
I'd post my commute, but you've summed it up.


Though I had a driver pull out whilst looking into the backseat of her car...

Sent from my PLK-L01 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 19 June, 2018, 08:25:17 am
The "proper" cyclist I caught this morning

Expensive lightweight bike - check
Plastic lid - check
Racing jersey - check
Retina-searing yellow cycling-branded cover on backpack - check
Lycra shorts - check
Natty clip-on cycling shoes - check
Looking over his shoulder before pulling out round potholes - er, no :-\
Ditto when pulling out around parked cars - er, no ::-)
Ditto when turning right onto Rectory Road (without signalling, natch) - again, no :facepalm:

He was most surprised/put out when an ol' boy in polo shirt, cargo shorts and battered old trainers, came breezing past him on a folder* ;D


*after doing a quick shoulder-check to see if it was safe to pull out around him.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 19 June, 2018, 02:16:58 pm
I think you should deduct several 'proper cyclist' points for the use of a backpack.  They're practically a warning sign when combined with that sort of gear.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 19 June, 2018, 07:04:33 pm
I had to brake quite hard coming down the A595 on my way in this morning as I got pulled out on - by a Police van! :facepalm:

The ride home was damp and extended by having to go back and actually lock the office doors up, but it was actually quite nice to roll along in the rain without any hay fever symptoms :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 21 June, 2018, 11:47:05 am
Last nights commute took a little longer (https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=108043.msg2297435#msg2297435) than planned.

Lovely tailwind and sunshine for a cruise through Stretford meadows this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 21 June, 2018, 01:19:30 pm
Yesterday... Horrible traffic around Forest Gate due to people being twats, probably because they were inconvenienced by a death in Stratford (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-44553654).  Later, two scrotes on a motorbike heading up CS3 Lower Thames St -. Byward St, followed by an unmarked police car with lights and sirens.  Then a junction closed by the fire brigade.  That all excludes the usual careless drivers and clueless peds.  I was happy to finally arrive at my destination unscathed.  Return trip was only marginally better.

But there were some high-points.  Spotted two cyclo-tourists: one near Forest Gate and another in Hyde Park.  Also, I was the 6,000th cyclist to pass the counter on the E-W cycle superhighway yesterday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: EllysH on 21 June, 2018, 06:10:00 pm
Simple ride in.

Lovely ride home, sun shining - mostly clear through the lights. Had a chance to chat with a colleague.


Got doored. (Nothing broke but my pride)

Sent from my PLK-L01 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 21 June, 2018, 06:20:57 pm
Ouch! How's the bike? Glad you're not too hurt :)

Well I now know it wasn't the chain causing my singlespeed to creak under load. Nice new chain, still creak, creak, creak, creak, ...

Shame really as the sun's out and even with the wind it's quite warm.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 21 June, 2018, 06:43:39 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 21 June, 2018, 06:20:57 pm


Well I now know it wasn't the chain causing my singlespeed to creak under load. Nice new chain, still creak, creak, creak, creak, ...



You're not about to snap another frame are you ?   :hand:

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 21 June, 2018, 07:05:46 pm
Quote from: Andrew Br on 21 June, 2018, 06:43:39 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 21 June, 2018, 06:20:57 pm


Well I now know it wasn't the chain causing my singlespeed to creak under load. Nice new chain, still creak, creak, creak, creak, ...



You're not about to snap another frame are you ?   :hand:



I hope not!

I've cleaned the frame up and given it a rather thorough inspection - no cracks that I can find.  I've also had the chainring off, cleaned the sliding dropouts and freewheel, re-tightened the bit you can remove to fit a belt drive and tried fixed on a different wheel.

It could be the BB or the pedals, but I'm starting to believe it's the chainring which I did notice was starting to look a bit hooked when I was cleaning it.

Oh, and this is a 2012 Trek District frame, not an 80s steel job
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: markcjagar on 21 June, 2018, 09:27:52 pm
Had to wait for a farmer to retrieve his escaped cows whilst riding up the TPT; the bit that runs along the M1 between Meadowhell and Ecclesfield.

Then got close passed by a police car on the A61 coming down from Grenoside, I filtered passed him at the next set of lights of course. I felt like saying something but decided it wasn't worth the hassle.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: EllysH on 21 June, 2018, 09:46:40 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 21 June, 2018, 06:20:57 pm
Ouch! How's the bike? Glad you're not too hurt :)

Well I now know it wasn't the chain causing my singlespeed to creak under load. Nice new chain, still creak, creak, creak, creak, ...

Shame really as the sun's out and even with the wind it's quite warm.
Bikes fine!

I was coming to a stop, so I got lucky really :)

I tend to blame creaks on the BB

Sent from my PLK-L01 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 22 June, 2018, 05:56:56 am
Quote from: mcshroom
Well I now know it wasn't the chain causing my singlespeed to creak under load. Nice new chain, still creak, creak, creak, creak, ...
Seatpost?

Utterly wiped out after yesterday's ride home. This is distressing because it's only 15 miles and although there was a bit of a headwind it wasn't that much of a headwind.  I really don't rate this getting old at all.  Warm but the cool breeze kept it very pleasant.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 22 June, 2018, 11:47:18 am
Quote from: Kim on 19 June, 2018, 02:16:58 pm
I think you should deduct several 'proper cyclist' points for the use of a backpack.  They're practically a warning sign when combined with that sort of gear.

Ordinarily Kim, I would agree with you, but my whizzy Topeak pump is too long to fit in one of m'shirt pockets PLUS the need to have glasses with me, and other kit means it goes into a Camelbak bag. Bit of a pain having the damn thing with me, but it's a case of 'needs must'. Having said that, just spotted this (http://www.wiggle.co.uk/topeak-mini-dx-master-blaster-pump-with-gauge/) on Wiggle – reduced. Mind you, I'd still rather not fork out £15 for yet another pump! So if you see me on a road bike – I'll have a Camelbak on!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 22 June, 2018, 03:29:56 pm
Speaking as a fully paid up member of The League of Backpack Wearing Cyclists and one that has invested in the optional retina-searing cover you will prise my backpack off my cold dead shoulders before I go back to panniers. :)

On short commutes, say 15 miles to (at a pinch) 20, I've found them a lot easier to manage than panniers; significantly less faffage, especially at the work end of the commute.   However I would go back to panniers if I ever ended up back on a long commute because of neck / shoulder pain.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 22 June, 2018, 03:36:02 pm
Personally I find a backpack too hot and sweaty, panniers and/or a saddlebag ever time. Equally pumps belong on the frame, either a peg under the top tube or better yet on a seat stay.   :P





yes that is my cape strapped in a roll on my saddlebag and I will leave quietly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 22 June, 2018, 08:01:47 pm
Quote from: EllysH on 21 June, 2018, 09:46:40 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 21 June, 2018, 06:20:57 pm
Ouch! How's the bike? Glad you're not too hurt :)

Well I now know it wasn't the chain causing my singlespeed to creak under load. Nice new chain, still creak, creak, creak, creak, ...

Shame really as the sun's out and even with the wind it's quite warm.
Bikes fine!

I was coming to a stop, so I got lucky really :)

That's lucky. Hopefully nothing's stiffened up overnight and you still feel ok :)
Quote
I tend to blame creaks on the BB

You were correct. The BB was only finger tight on the drive side. I've re-greased and replaced rather tighter - it's almost silent now!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 25 June, 2018, 10:54:15 pm
Been working from home for the last few months, and had to venture into Glasgow today to drop car off for MoT.   In the city it was fine, but on the faster suburban roads it was shit.

I've been going out on some country roads before work just 10 km or so to wake up, and the country roads are no problem.  Today was a bit of a rude awakening as to the shitness of drivers again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 26 June, 2018, 11:55:16 am
Like being blasted with a hairdryer on hot for an hour at the moment, very nearly burnt on the way home last night.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 26 June, 2018, 12:08:04 pm
Again reminded how dodgy West London drivers behave towards cyclists, compared to the French.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jakob on 28 June, 2018, 07:48:23 am
Guy on roadbike in full kit felt that it was necessary to slightly jump the red light (and push in front of 3 other cyclist), only to fumble clipping in. Needless to say we all swarmed past him and boxed him in for a bit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 28 June, 2018, 08:51:33 am
Can anyone tell me where the motorised morons of mid-Beds have gone? It's been quite a while now and the commute is becoming rather dull.

If it wasn't for the occasional "proper" cyclist I'd be totally bored with the whole thing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 29 June, 2018, 09:23:33 am
Last one for a fortnight  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 29 June, 2018, 10:54:27 am
Quote from: Guy on 28 June, 2018, 08:51:33 am
Can anyone tell me where the motorised morons of mid-Beds have gone? It's been quite a while now and the commute is becoming rather dull.

If it wasn't for the occasional "proper" cyclist I'd be totally bored with the whole thing.

At home / in the pubbe, watching sportsball?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 29 June, 2018, 12:54:59 pm
Watching 22 overpaid idiots prancing around a field in pursuit of a kiddies beach toy at 1/4 past 7 in the mornining?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: telstarbox on 01 July, 2018, 09:24:47 am
Thanks for that stunningly original take
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 05 July, 2018, 01:06:03 pm
About a kilometre from home yesterday, I found the traction limit for a front Vittoria Hyper on a wet road. Some skin loss but not much bike damage and nothing broken. Still sore on today's commute but hopefully that'll settle down soon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 05 July, 2018, 08:11:16 pm
Quote from: LittleWheelsandBig on 05 July, 2018, 01:06:03 pm
... traction limit for a front Vittoria Hyper on a wet road.
What's a "wet" road?

GWS.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 10 July, 2018, 05:47:55 am
Fuck sake, another cyclist dies cos of these bin lorries. This time at Queen’s Circus at Battersea. Scary thing is that the cycle lane are pretty much separated. However, A lot of cyclists race through on the road cos of the red lights taking so long on the cycle lanes. But even so....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: markcjagar on 10 July, 2018, 11:11:48 am
Pedestrian stepped out in front of me whilst filtering yesterday afternoon.

I was probably going a bit quick for the conditions but I don't think I could've stopped even if I was going slower, would've hurt less though.

Bike looks fine, shoulder's sore.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: EllysH on 10 July, 2018, 12:42:15 pm
Quote from: markcjagar on 10 July, 2018, 11:11:48 am
Pedestrian stepped out in front of me whilst filtering yesterday afternoon.

I was probably going a bit quick for the conditions but I don't think I could've stopped even if I was going slower, would've hurt less though.

Bike looks fine, shoulder's sore.
Ouch. Glad you're not too hurt.

Sent from my PLK-L01 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: markcjagar on 10 July, 2018, 03:48:39 pm
Quote from: EllysH on 10 July, 2018, 12:42:15 pm
Quote from: markcjagar on 10 July, 2018, 11:11:48 am
Pedestrian stepped out in front of me whilst filtering yesterday afternoon.

I was probably going a bit quick for the conditions but I don't think I could've stopped even if I was going slower, would've hurt less though.

Bike looks fine, shoulder's sore.
Ouch. Glad you're not too hurt.

Sent from my PLK-L01 using Tapatalk

Cheers
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: markcjagar on 11 July, 2018, 04:35:41 pm
Quote from: markcjagar on 10 July, 2018, 11:11:48 am
Pedestrian stepped out in front of me whilst filtering yesterday afternoon.

I was probably going a bit quick for the conditions but I don't think I could've stopped even if I was going slower, would've hurt less though.

Bike looks fine, shoulder's sore.

Been for an X-ray today, fractured my right humeral head
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TJG on 12 July, 2018, 01:49:43 pm
Well I am glad the boys have finished playing with their balls on work evenings now.  The commute home when they were having a group session in the evening was bad enough but last night when they got a semi on it was mental!  Im sure if
I had been an hour later I would have had the road to myself but as it was I foolishly ended up stuck in the middle of it. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 12 July, 2018, 07:44:27 pm
Ahh, it's that time of year again.  The annual slug-balancers kerosene fest.  About ten miles of watching the Italian aerobatic team rehearse their display on the way home today.  It's just as well I like aeroplanes, isn't it? :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 18 July, 2018, 05:58:31 pm
I rather enjoyed the ride home today.

There was the enjoyable near instant karmic retribution for the motorist who stupidly pulled out in front of me (forcing me to jam on the anchors - hard) as I was trundling down a steep hill* at 25mph (ish) only to find a car coming towards him.   This caused him to swerve into the kerb, one of those nice high "sea-wall" style ones.  At which there was the pleasing, to me,  sound of a tyre bursting accompanied by the sort of expensive sounds I associate with track rod ends and other suspension components going west.

There wasn't much in the way of a head wind which meant I managed to average somewhere between 18.5 mph and 19mph.  A speed I haven't hit for rather a long time.

And one odd thing.  The crop dryer was going at Donkeywell farm.  We haven't had rain here for 5(?) weeks and the rain we had before that was no more than light showers.  Very surprised it's being used.


*For those that know Ciren. it's the road that cuts down from Chesterton Lane towards Sheep St.; by the side of the amphitheatre.  The one with the scout hut and the obelisk.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 18 July, 2018, 06:19:14 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 18 July, 2018, 05:58:31 pm
I rather enjoyed the ride home today.

There was the enjoyable near instant karmic retribution for the motorist who stupidly pulled out in front of me (forcing me to jam on the anchors - hard) as I was trundling down a steep hill* at 25mph (ish) only to find a car coming towards him.   This caused him to swerve into the kerb, one of those nice high "sea-wall" style ones.  At which there was the pleasing, to me,  sound of a tyre bursting accompanied by the sort of expensive sounds I associate with track rod ends and other suspension components going west.

There wasn't much in the way of a head wind which meant I managed to average somewhere between 18.5 mph and 19mph.  A speed I haven't hit for rather a long time.

And one odd thing.  The crop dryer was going at Donkeywell farm.  We haven't had rain here for 5(?) weeks and the rain we had before that was no more than light showers.  Very surprised it's being used.


*For those that know Ciren. it's the road that cuts down from Chesterton Lane towards Sheep St.; by the side of the amphitheatre.  The one with the scout hut and the obelisk.

Love it!

Equally annoying is the increasing amount of drivers left hooking into lanes from the main roads in London saving about 2.5 nano seconds.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peat on 19 July, 2018, 01:54:12 pm
Quote from: TheLurker on 18 July, 2018, 05:58:31 pm

And one odd thing.  The crop dryer was going at Donkeywell farm.  We haven't had rain here for 5(?) weeks and the rain we had before that was no more than light showers.  Very surprised it's being used.

It'll either be to make sure it's all working correctly after a winter of no use, or as likely the crops are still on the unfit side. Despite the near-drought like conditions, alot of the fields I pass day to day are still unfit. You can still see green straws in the tramlines. Ideal moisture is down around 16%. Anything more affects the length of time it can be stored and makes it more susceptible to fungus and other infestations. The moisture content is of the whole grain, rain actually has little bearing on this other than making the outer layers physically wet after rainfall which can be righted with a day of sun and breeze.

. Frustrating for farmers, because when this ideal harvesting weather breaks, you can guarantee it'll rain in drips and drabs forever more.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 19 July, 2018, 05:18:46 pm
Ta.  Live and learn.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SoreTween on 20 July, 2018, 09:25:29 am
Stopped to advise a lady pushing her bike of the legal status of cyclist dismount signs she was observing. Doubt she'll take it  from me, I wouldn't, but hopefully it will prompt her to look it up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 24 July, 2018, 10:00:36 am
First cycle commute to London in about a year today.  That's mostly because I've been working in The Hague and only partly because its 50 miles one way.  Took the scenic route south of Woking.  The difference in traffic the School Holidays make in areas such as Kingston... Fondly imagines what it would be like to have Dutch cycle lanes and a Dutch attitude to bicycles.  London's pollution problems would disappear overnight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 24 July, 2018, 07:36:54 pm
First TUBE commute for a long while today. Not a brilliant choice but the needs must.

Apparently, people choose this method over cycling. I think I could make a mint on a scent to accompany the journey. I think I'll call it Purgatory.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: markcjagar on 24 July, 2018, 09:27:33 pm
I've been back in work this week but I'm off the bike due to the shoulder still be sore.

40 minute tram ride followed by a 2 mile walk in the morning, I've been lucky both days and my gaffer spotted me and gave me a lift the last mile. She's in London tomorrow so I won't be so lucky...

It's not a bad walk though, one straight road for most of it and it's through an industrial area which has quite a bit of character even if it's quite run down.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: EllysH on 25 July, 2018, 02:55:53 pm
Stupid number of cars on the road given the weather, but ride was nice and easy.

Though two lycra-louts cut infront at a red light, stopped on pedestrian crossing then preceded to pull away - in front of all the traffic - before pulling in without signalling. Why? God knows.

Sent from my PLK-L01 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 26 July, 2018, 06:58:27 pm
That was hot.  Tail wind was welcome - second fastest commute back to town.  Straight in the shower and still took ages to cool down.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 27 July, 2018, 01:45:45 pm
Yesterday I had a meeting at the offices of the group's favourite newspaper, so I got the train in and having decided it was going to be a nice day, grabbed the Brompton. They're obviously very liberal because security didn't blink when I handed them a Brompton (a lot of places still get sniffy, like I'm handing them a big metallic bomb turd).

Anyway, it didn't feel that hot when I left about 4.30pm so I was enticed into a long circuitous and circumlocutory journey home that took me up through Islington, around Little Stokey, through the wilds of Hackney and the marshy badlands south of Walthamstow, and then down, down, down to Tower Bridge and points south (it was at this point I noted the headwind and why going north had been so easy), the many splendours of Peckham, the sylvan glades of Forest Hill and Sydenham (the beast is evidently in abeyance), and then to the mighty gleaming spires of Croydonia. Is there any sight more beautiful to behold the the Croydon skyline? Eat that Manhattan. Pedalling frantically to avoid being eaten by native Croydonites onwards to Purley (the vampires won't be out in that kind of sun). Then a long clamber up to the heights of Kenley airfield. I confess that after nearly four hours, much of it into a giant wind-tunnel that seemed to be connected directly to the Sahara, I was relieved to finally freewheel back down from the North Downs. After a final climb up the hill and driveway, I collapsed and lay there for a bit until the cats started to try and lick the salt off me. Eight pints of water, one bath, and a gin-based restorative, I could almost walk again. I think I overdid it a bit. It's a true fact that a Brompton has no useful gear for pedalling into a headwind. Or an engine.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SoreTween on 28 July, 2018, 07:58:59 am
Quote from: ian on 27 July, 2018, 01:45:45 pm
Is there any sight more beautiful to behold the the Croydon skyline?
Nurse! Quick, bring the strong pills!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 28 July, 2018, 01:05:22 pm
Quote from: ian on 27 July, 2018, 01:45:45 pm
It's a true fact that a Brompton has no useful gear for pedalling into a headwind.

Mine does (I've made a few special modifications myself).  The problem is that when it comes to that, the awesome aerodynamics of the Brompton mean you're liable to make better progress in the 24" gear.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 03 August, 2018, 08:11:26 am
Looking over my shoulder to move round a parked car, didn't see the pothole, ended up bouncing off the rear quarter of the car, car's fine, bike's fine, elbow is twice the size it should be, bah!  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 04 August, 2018, 12:35:24 pm
Maybe you should have it looked at, Si.  When I broke my elbow I could move it and it just felt a bit sore, though there was a huge swelling.  X-ray revealed that the olecranon was broken and there were big gaps between the bits.

Good luck

Peter
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 04 August, 2018, 01:12:56 pm
Thanks for the concern Peter, a lot of the swelling has gone out of it overnight, although you can still cook eggs on it.

I can ride pain free and have full movement, lovely colour though, as long as you like purple. I'll keep an eye on it but I don't think there's anything seriously wrong.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 04 August, 2018, 01:33:02 pm
That's good, Si.  I did, admittedly, have a haematoma the size of a tennis ball, which was a bit of a clue!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 08 August, 2018, 11:35:49 pm
One of my rare commutes today.
Nothing out of the ordinary (other than me actually riding in) but Barlow Moor Road is even worse than last time and the construction going on in Didsbury suggests that more of it is going to get hammered.
It remains to be seen whether I'll have the enthusiasum to ride in on Friday.

 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: markcjagar on 09 August, 2018, 11:39:46 pm
nearly 2 weeks of commuting since my crash. a previously padlocked gate has been opened which has created a nice shortcut from the rotherham/sheffield canal to meadowhall avoiding the awkward bridge

red = shortcut, yellow =/= shortcut
(https://i.imgur.com/12OdoHU.png)

felt like i'd finally figured out mariokart

also, tonight i finished at 6 instead of 5. it was weirdly quiet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SoreTween on 13 August, 2018, 11:50:59 am
Dangerous close passes at the rate of 1 per km  :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 13 August, 2018, 12:53:49 pm
Something nice is happening to my commutes.

I'm only 3.5 miles from work, so I have options to extend. One of them takes me away from the city for the first 2 miles, along a lovely winding lane with views over the Derwent Valley, only spoiled by occasional motor traffic going too fast.

However, Severn Trent are replacing the pipes on that road and it's been closed it to motor traffic since June. It's blissful.

Coincidentally, on my more direct commute, a water main has burst (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-derbyshire-45126659), knocking out the bridge to motor traffic (still passable on bike).

So I currently have two routes to work on both of which I can pretty much cycle in the middle (or all over) the road for almost 2 miles!

 ;D ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 13 August, 2018, 01:11:29 pm
Saw a twitter thread recently where someone thanked $water_co for digging up their road and making it safe from rat-runners and $water_co tweeted back to apologise for the inconvenience.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 13 August, 2018, 03:13:26 pm
The other year an entire section of the A22 flooded (a road normally only cycled by people who have yet to find a suitably terrifying extreme sport, such as grenade juggling while wing-walking on a supersonic jet fighter) and was closed to traffic for several weeks (it opened briefly but drivers insisted on crashing into the big blue and yellow pipework that was continuing to remove the excess water, so they have to re-close). That made cycling down it a delight. People even took to indulging themselves in curiously pursuits like walking.

Oh and despite the bleats about the world-ending catastrophe that was closure of an A road the shops didn't run out of food and everyone found different routes and the impact of a removing a bit of traffic was positive. A lesson, of course, that will go unlearned.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: markcjagar on 14 August, 2018, 08:30:06 pm
I rode passed this on my way home from work last night. (https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/cyclist-seriously-injured-in-collision-with-lorry-in-sheffield-1-9299250)

The ambulance had just left the scene and I spotted the helmet on the floor as I was waiting at the lights.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 20 August, 2018, 07:26:57 pm
My commute home today became accidentally multimodal when the pin from my top jockey wheel unscrewed and the wheel and pin disappeared off into the hedge somewhere. The last 1.5 miles were walked
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 23 August, 2018, 09:56:42 pm
At least you're not having to buy a new frame ...................  ;)


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 25 August, 2018, 10:09:41 am
Last night was cold and wet and windy and dark and I did not like it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 04 September, 2018, 07:45:00 pm
Whereas today was sunny and warm not too chilly so I went for a loop up  above Ennerdale on the way home :)
(https://dgtzuqphqg23d.cloudfront.net/RtSUPpUS__dVirbVPtj3T7_-mKDprxDE5gQx9YMd84A-2048x1536.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 07 September, 2018, 01:32:55 pm
It's very, very strange but I've found that the longer the moron behind me leans on the horn the deafer and slower I get.   Odd that isn't it?  Other than that, utterly unaccountable, noise related performance dip good runs in both directions today.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Genosse Brymbo on 07 September, 2018, 06:07:24 pm
Not exactly today, but yesterday I took a couple of photos of a strange building which has been erected over the past few months in Mapledurham, on my daily route between Whitchurch-on-Thames and Reading.  Anybody have any idea of its purpose?

(http://browning.myzen.co.uk/YACF/MapledurhamShed1.JPG)

(http://browning.myzen.co.uk/YACF/MapledurhamShed2.JPG)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Panoramix on 07 September, 2018, 07:06:54 pm
Small scale kiln dryer (that would explain the chimney).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 07 September, 2018, 08:18:00 pm
Secret bunker, no?

Does it slide underground? I bet it slides underground.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 11 September, 2018, 09:08:28 pm
I pinged a stone with considerable velocity into a car this evening. The bang was loud outside the car: goodness knows what it sounded like inside.
We both stopped to have a look. We couldn’t see any damage, but it was a cursory inspection.
He was glad I’d stopped, if only because he had no idea what had caused the bang.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 13 September, 2018, 08:26:47 am
Hat 'n' glubs today. We had a light touch of frorwst* this morning. A beautiful sunny morning.

* As the old 'uns pronounce it out here in rural Bedfordshire.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: EllysH on 13 September, 2018, 09:15:05 am
First actually cold commute this morning!

Woollen baselayer tomorrow!

Sent from my PLK-L01 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peat on 13 September, 2018, 09:21:45 am
Quote from: Paul on 11 September, 2018, 09:08:28 pm
I pinged a stone with considerable velocity into a car this evening. The bang was loud outside the car: goodness knows what it sounded like inside.
We both stopped to have a look. We couldn’t see any damage, but it was a cursory inspection.
He was glad I’d stopped, if only because he had no idea what had caused the bang.

What happens if the cars' owner asks for/demands compo? I've always seen this situation as force majure, from both sides, but in the event of a car flicking a stone, they are long gone whereas you are 'get-able' on a bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 13 September, 2018, 10:09:20 am
He gave me the digit, I gave him five digits, technically a wave.  Driver did not like that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: trekker12 on 14 September, 2018, 01:15:50 pm
Winter is on it's way

(https://i.imgur.com/1mSd8zC.jpg)

Mary Poppins visited rural Suffolk for the weekend

(https://i.imgur.com/0gt6Ulm.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 17 September, 2018, 08:03:34 am
Another indicator of the changing seasons this morning. Last week we had frost, this morning was gloomy enough to require lights.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 17 September, 2018, 05:03:49 pm
It's 21 degrees here, and looking at 'later on', isn't supposed to go below 19 degrees all night. Whassgoinon!!!?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TJG on 18 September, 2018, 01:15:44 pm
A lovely tail wind made the trip in a joy.  Do they work like headwinds and flip 180 degrees through the course of the day?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 18 September, 2018, 01:28:59 pm
Quote from: TJG on 18 September, 2018, 01:15:44 pm
A lovely tail wind made the trip in a joy.  Do they work like headwinds and flip 180 degrees through the course of the day?

In my experience they just strengthen...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 18 September, 2018, 11:40:06 pm
40mph (gusting 60mph) head wind forecast for me tomorrow! As much as I've enjoyed the last few days on the singlespeed, I think tomorrow calls for gears.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 19 September, 2018, 10:10:20 am
I had to bimble down the footpath along Priory Rd last night on account of the sodding great tree that was blocking the road. There were a number of enthusiastic-looking young men in hi-vis and hard hats playing with chainsaws on it.

Not a trace of it (or them) this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 19 September, 2018, 11:19:05 am
Last Friday, Canary Wharf Management (for I assume it was they) installed five or six barriers along here (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.5043957,-0.0275639,3a,75y,89.62h,90t/data=!3m8!1e1!3m6!1sAF1QipO6zcEpA_AhXH9gItNQFE3Ezmryhlrw1mEVzcrj!2e10!3e11!6shttps:%2F%2Flh5.googleusercontent.com%2Fp%2FAF1QipO6zcEpA_AhXH9gItNQFE3Ezmryhlrw1mEVzcrj%3Dw203-h100-k-no-pi1.1330707-ya89.38808-ro-3.0880744-fo100!7i5376!8i2688).
Chicanes, if you like. Each consisting of three 'gates', around 1200mm high, each leg being bolted to terra firma with a couple of M10 rawlbolts.
They cause the cyclists to slow right down as they zig-zag between the barriers.
I can see why CWM will have done this as it is a heavily pedestrianised path, and some cyclists pass along there at twuntish speeds.
I can't actually negotiate these barriers as I ride fixed, with a significant amount of toe-overlap.

Now, 1200mm of metalwork will yield a significant amount of leverage over 4 x M10 bolts.
I couldn't help but grin this morning, when I saw that each chicane was missing one of its barriers, rendering it useless.

I'll bet you can see the missing barriers at low tide.  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 20 September, 2018, 12:23:22 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 19 September, 2018, 11:19:05 am
I'll bet you can see the missing barriers at low tide.  ;)
What a waste! Think of the scrap value someone's missed out on...  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 20 September, 2018, 12:31:41 pm
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 20 September, 2018, 12:23:22 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 19 September, 2018, 11:19:05 am
I'll bet you can see the missing barriers at low tide.  ;)
What a waste! Think of the scrap value someone's missed out on...  :D
Galvanized - which, as far as I'm aware, is of little value as scrap.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 21 September, 2018, 09:33:00 am
5 minute cycle to work.

Unpack bag. Blast! Left glasses and phone at home.

Cycle there and back.

Quite a work out!  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: EllysH on 23 September, 2018, 12:17:46 pm
Poured it down this morning.

Was the ONLY cyclist on the road.

Sent from my PLK-L01 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 24 September, 2018, 08:23:10 am
I'm so glad I don't have to stand out in the cold and scrape a windscreen* before I can go to work. Frosty again this morning.


* For about 90% of the cars I saw this morning, the windscreen (or, rather, part of the windscreen) was the only window they'd cleared ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 24 September, 2018, 06:20:12 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 19 September, 2018, 11:19:05 am
Last Friday, Canary Wharf Management (for I assume it was they) installed five or six barriers along here (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.5043957,-0.0275639,3a,75y,89.62h,90t/data=!3m8!1e1!3m6!1sAF1QipO6zcEpA_AhXH9gItNQFE3Ezmryhlrw1mEVzcrj!2e10!3e11!6shttps:%2F%2Flh5.googleusercontent.com%2Fp%2FAF1QipO6zcEpA_AhXH9gItNQFE3Ezmryhlrw1mEVzcrj%3Dw203-h100-k-no-pi1.1330707-ya89.38808-ro-3.0880744-fo100!7i5376!8i2688).
Chicanes, if you like. Each consisting of three 'gates', around 1200mm high, each leg being bolted to terra firma with a couple of M10 rawlbolts.
They cause the cyclists to slow right down as they zig-zag between the barriers.
I can see why CWM will have done this as it is a heavily pedestrianised path, and some cyclists pass along there at twuntish speeds.
I can't actually negotiate these barriers as I ride fixed, with a significant amount of toe-overlap.

Now, 1200mm of metalwork will yield a significant amount of leverage over 4 x M10 bolts.
I couldn't help but grin this morning, when I saw that each chicane was missing one of its barriers, rendering it useless.

I'll bet you can see the missing barriers at low tide.  ;)

Like so:
(https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1905/44840640192_7742ecde89_z.jpg)

So, this evening the engineers (for that is how the warning sign identified them) are working on a solution.
What they've done is they've dug a hole, ~75mm deep.
Into this hole, they've rawl-bolted the flange, so that the top of the flange is level with terra -firma.
They've then attached the pipe work, and buried the flange under ~75mm of asphalt.
So plan B differs from plan A by adding ~75mm of asphalt on top of the flange.
I'm not convinced that they are actually engineers, or that their solution will be in any way effective - given the ~1200mm of leverage afforded by the pipe work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: telstarbox on 24 September, 2018, 07:12:57 pm
Deployed lights for the first time tonight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 24 September, 2018, 08:22:07 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 24 September, 2018, 06:20:12 pm
So, this evening the engineers (for that is how the warning sign identified them) are working on a solution.
What they've done is they've dug a hole, ~75mm deep.
Into this hole, they've rawl-bolted the flange, so that the top of the flange is level with terra -firma.
They've then attached the pipe work, and buried the flange under ~75mm of asphalt.
So plan B differs from plan A by adding ~75mm of asphalt on top of the flange.
I'm not convinced that they are actually engineers, or that their solution will be in any way effective - given the ~1200mm of leverage afforded by the pipe work.

I think I know these guys from the Mordor Central refurbishment works:  They'll be the ones who installed the bolt-on Sheffield stands - cycle parking, for the use of - by burying the flanges in several inches of concrete (https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=70917.msg1921681#msg1921681).  This, combined with a general lack of clearance, resulted in cycle parking that was inadvertently optimised for Bromptons.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 26 September, 2018, 08:19:58 am
Yesterday, on the way home, crossing Walthamstow Marshes.
Someone flying a fairly substantial quad-copter.
Around 50 metres away from a pylon carrying 400kv powerlines.
What could possibly go wrong?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TJG on 26 September, 2018, 01:33:10 pm
Nearly got knocked off by a jeep today on the only part of my commute that is on a cycle path. (Read shared use pavement).  Numpty decided to use it to undercut a lorry that was turning right without bothering to check for pedestrians. All so he could join the queue again saving himself 0 time and giving me a fright!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 26 September, 2018, 06:06:30 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 26 September, 2018, 08:19:58 am
Yesterday, on the way home, crossing Walthamstow Marshes.
Someone flying a fairly substantial quad-copter.
Around 50 metres away from a pylon carrying 400kv powerlines.
What could possibly go wrong?

Being free flying, rather than tethered inna Benjamin Franklin style, it should be OK I imagine.  Don't National Grid use drones for their own survey purposes anyway?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 26 September, 2018, 06:17:39 pm
A meeting in London Town today had me get all multi-modal. Five minute spin to the station on the Bendy Bike then a brief wait for a very empty train which rattled its way to Victoria. There's more motor traffic in London mid morning than there is on the way to a FNRTTC.  Slightly delayed by smart marching and mounted soldiers (plus many many tourists)  around Buck House, I whizzed along the Mall, round Trafalgar Square and up TCR to my destination. Locked the bendy bike with a frankly non London standard lock, did my thing and returned to find the bike was still there. Phew.


For the return I nipped (FSVO nipped) along Oxford Street then down through Hyde Park and along Buckingham Palace Road. I heard singing. This was coming from a quite beautiful young woman, cycling with purpose, aplomb and a set of head phones. Then she jumped a red light and I stopped loving her.

Get to VIC to find a return train in five minutes, so leap aboard. All was well until Epsom where the driver disappeared in a puff of end of shift and the new one was stuck on a train somewhere, so after some minutes we were told the train was terminated. Arse. The next one was in 45 minutes, so I escaped the station to find coffee and CAIK.  Finally back to the start, IYSWIM, then five minutes trundle home, dicing with death to cross the traffic moving at R17 as I crossed the A24.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 26 September, 2018, 07:49:09 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 26 September, 2018, 06:06:30 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 26 September, 2018, 08:19:58 am
Yesterday, on the way home, crossing Walthamstow Marshes.
Someone flying a fairly substantial quad-copter.
Around 50 metres away from a pylon carrying 400kv powerlines.
What could possibly go wrong?

Being free flying, rather than tethered inna Benjamin Franklin style, it should be OK I imagine.  Don't National Grid use drones for their own survey purposes anyway?
Indeed.
I'm reminded of swallows (other bird types are available) which will park (moor? perch?) themselves comfortably on the wires which say 'Zzzzzztttttt!!'
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 04 October, 2018, 07:50:50 pm
LED Streetlights.  Another drawback.  Now the streetlamps no longer cast the odd orange glow it has become difficult to be certain whether that pool of light that you can see just around the not quite blind bend is a streetlight or a car parked on a driveway about to come flying out into your path. 

I've had colder morning trips than today's in midsummer. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 08 October, 2018, 10:50:42 am
Back in shorts and a short sleeved top this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 09 October, 2018, 09:22:19 pm
I realised this evening was probably the last chance I'd get to see Wastwater in the light after work this year, so I decided to make the trip. I just about made it, 5 mins before sunset :)

(https://dgtzuqphqg23d.cloudfront.net/27E6BRaKEejmX_uozBjJ4QpZmn_ESXAzFCxrNTNoyE8-2048x1152.jpg)

I spent the whole loop back to Gosforth chasing two roadies. If it wasn't for having to dodge a kamikaze sheep I'd have caught them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TJG on 10 October, 2018, 01:56:43 pm
For some reason I am all of a sudden fed up with cycling.
 I still prefer not being in the car for the commute which is good as my wife needs it 3 days a week but I just cannot be bothered to pedal hard which is problematic with all the hills around here.     
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 10 October, 2018, 07:19:41 pm
Quote from: TJG
For some reason I am all of a sudden fed up with cycling.
Ach, we all get that from time to time.  Take a break, don't worry about it, and come back to it mentally refreshed in your own good time.

Quote from: mschroom
... chasing two roadies. If it wasn't for having to dodge a kamikaze sheep I'd have caught them
I on the other hand was comprehensively left for dead by one* on the way home.

*Roadie, not sheep.  It's the deer you have to watch out for hereabouts.  They come barrelling out of the hedgerow, usually when it's pitch dark, occasioning a great swearing and expenditure of brake pads followed by the inevitable delayed shock. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 10 October, 2018, 08:42:12 pm
The problem with the sheep is that if there's a wall slightly too close to the road for their liking (which may be quite a way off the road) on the side they've run off to, they will just dart straight back across the road to the other side, often coming very close to you (the cyclist they are running away from). How this has evolved as a survival tactic I don't know.

The other hazard tends to be pheasants exiting roadside hedges at head height
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JennyB on 10 October, 2018, 09:15:08 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 10 October, 2018, 08:42:12 pm
The problem with the sheep is that if there's a wall slightly too close to the road for their liking (which may be quite a way off the road) on the side they've run off to, they will just dart straight back across the road to the other side, often coming very close to you (the cyclist they are running away from). How this has evolved as a survival tactic I don't know.

The other hazard tends to be pheasants exiting roadside hedges at head height

Once, up in the Sperrins, I came across a couple of sheep in a road with a high bank either side. Then a couple more, and a couple more ... until I  was driving over twenty sheep before me for about two miles until I got to a house where someone was able to turn them into a field.

I've never had a problem with pheasants,  but  late last night I almost ran over a hedgehog. No, it wasn't  curled up in a ball.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hulver on 11 October, 2018, 10:09:36 am
I had a lovely ride in this morning. I took the trail, past somebody who held their dog when they saw me coming. I overtook a couple of joggers who acknowledged my bell by giving me room to pass them.

The temperature was cool thanks to some rain overnight, but not cold. Perfect riding temperature.

The only problem was that it ended too soon when I got to work.

I must remember this feeling when I'm doing the same tomorrow, as I suspect the weather will not be as nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hulver on 12 October, 2018, 09:20:19 am
Well that wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. It looked really windy but I barely felt a thing.

In completely unrelated news, I got to work in record time today, didn't feel like I was working hard at all!  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 12 October, 2018, 10:24:34 am
In comparison, I was on my MTB fighting gusts of 60mph down the Cumbrian coast today. Average speed was only just over 10mph. The ride home should be quite fun though :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 12 October, 2018, 11:17:44 am
Gusty, swirly wind down in Swansea. I was expecting a (Cumbrian-type) headwind slog, but it wasn't that bad.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Duckfoot1606 on 12 October, 2018, 01:27:29 pm
Hope he bought a lottery ticket later

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/uk-england-london-45834019/lewisham-video-shows-falling-tree-narrowly-missing-cyclist

A
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 12 October, 2018, 01:33:28 pm
I expect the first thing he bought was new pants  :o :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: EllysH on 13 October, 2018, 12:03:05 pm
Why is it so damn warm?
Surprisingly sweaty commute as I wore my long sleeve thermal...

Sent from my PLK-L01 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: meddyg on 15 October, 2018, 03:59:46 pm
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1967/43519747980_f4c68df3ee_k.jpg)

Extraordinary Health n' Safety here then at the tram crossing in Timperley...





to clarify, if your high vehicle has rung the bell, you're dead metal !
You appear to get more warning approaching from the far side
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 24 October, 2018, 05:45:33 pm
Lovely moon-set this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 24 October, 2018, 09:03:49 pm
Maybe the wall is similar to a cliff edge in their mind so keeping away from a drop?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 25 October, 2018, 03:40:11 pm
heard a 'crack' this am on the ride in as I bumped into a hole. Couldn't see anything amiss so into work. Nipped out at lunch to find part of the spring on one of my candy pedals had broken making the pedal into a not v.flat pedal. Some application of zip ties may work until I get home and fit a spare pair

Update: Zip ties work...sort of. But they got me home
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 30 October, 2018, 11:56:01 am
It's bloody cold!  >:(

Last week I was in short sleeves, shorts, and sandals.  Yesterday I was fully covered (short of balaclava) and layered.  Yes, the mornings last week were quite cold, but my commute is currently afternoon and evening, so a bit warmer.

And last night I was nearly hit by someone turning right onto the road I was cycling along, and got a punishment pass for having the temerity to not give way earlier to the driver who was being a twat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: markcjagar on 30 October, 2018, 07:54:00 pm
Came out of work to a flat tyre, no pump, that's strapped to the my usual bike whose wheels are off being trued. 1 mile walk to get the train from Rotherham to Sheffield where the lovely bloke at Russell's Bike Shed changed out my tube for me and lent me a track pump. A decent sized shard of metal was pulled from the tyre.

The pump's already in the bag for tomorrow and I'm going back to riding down the canal path because the road alternative is littered with puncture inducing debris...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 31 October, 2018, 02:17:52 pm
Was the 1 hour clock change responsible for the traffic madness in North Mcr last night? People blocking box junctions/cutting in/out, weaving from lane - lane. Felt really edgy so it was a reduction in speed and eyes on the road even more.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 01 November, 2018, 11:23:31 am
I nearly knocked over William Hague on my commute this morning. He was crossing the road without looking, the idiot. His assistant stopped him just in time though... Damn!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 01 November, 2018, 07:53:50 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 01 November, 2018, 11:23:31 am
I nearly knocked over William Hague on my commute this morning. He was crossing the road without looking, the idiot. His assistant stopped him just in time though... Damn!
Tsk, tsk 5/10.  Must do better.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 02 November, 2018, 10:52:45 am
Quote from: TheLurker on 01 November, 2018, 07:53:50 pm
Quote from: citoyen on 01 November, 2018, 11:23:31 am
I nearly knocked over William Hague on my commute this morning. He was crossing the road without looking, the idiot. His assistant stopped him just in time though... Damn!
Tsk, tsk 5/10.  Must do better.

That's almost exactly what my son said when I told him.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 02 November, 2018, 11:21:46 am
That's the problem with bikes – they'd don't have a reverse gear.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: EllysH on 04 November, 2018, 08:12:02 pm
Quote from: pumpkin on 31 October, 2018, 02:17:52 pm
Was the 1 hour clock change responsible for the traffic madness in North Mcr last night? People blocking box junctions/cutting in/out, weaving from lane - lane. Felt really edgy so it was a reduction in speed and eyes on the road even more.
London was the same, watched a double decker bus and six cars drive up a closed road and THEN block a box junction.

I became a pedestrian, crossed on foot, stopped and had a good chuckle.

Sent from my PLK-L01 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TJG on 14 November, 2018, 01:52:33 pm
I am sure the pack mentality of motorists is getting worse as the weather does. I have never noticed so many cars racing to overtake me just to join a clearly visible queue of traffic up ahead as I have seen in the last few weeks.   I overtook the same car 3 times in a few hundred yards today before they figured it out and just hung back!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 14 November, 2018, 04:37:32 pm
Definitely getting worse. I have changed my route to work that now has a lot quieter roads so it a little better. But congestion in London is a real problem and there are no cycle lanes to be blaming in the Chelsea/Fulham area.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 22 November, 2018, 01:34:33 pm
It's reached that time of year where you've got to put some effort in to stay warm, which just shows how lazy I've become lately, average moving speed up 15% this morning on what's become typical, journey time a whole 4 minutes less.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: markcjagar on 22 November, 2018, 09:25:38 pm
Hit another pedestrian tonight.

There were 2 people waiting at a pelican crossing (green light, red man) and other than me, there were no other vehicles around. I braked but didn't stop because 1 of them looked for going but then he stopped so I carried on. I'm guessing I was in number 2's blind spot because he then went for it and I got tangled in the strap of this trailing bag, we both went down. As I'd already braked I was going ~10km/h, so no severe injuries.

I used a few choice words to let him know what I thought of him, got up and rode round the corner to my house.

I gave the bike a once over, looks fine
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: quixoticgeek on 23 November, 2018, 11:15:59 am

Had a couple of close calls on the commute today. Some fuckwit in a blue SUV shot across in front of me when I was doing about 22kph. Had to brake, tho not to a complete stop. I had right of way, a few choice gestures were offered in their direction. 1km further on, I'm on the tri bars, overtaking muggle cyclists, when one of them just starts moving left, with no signal, and for no apparent reason, his move is pushing me towards the tram tracks, which would be messy, I slam the anchors on and with some gymnastics, keep the bike from going to far towards the tram tracks, missing them by maybe 100mm? I was not best pleased.

It seems the people of Amsterdam have forgotten how to ride in a straight line, there were a few other issues with muggle cyclists randomly moving around like this, but this one really stuck out due to closeness with the tram tracks.

J
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 23 November, 2018, 11:32:39 am
The cold weather and general time off the bike since September is showing the expected effect. My commute is noticeably slower now. Oh well, at least resuming commuting means I won't be gaining too much weight over the next few months.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 23 November, 2018, 11:56:23 am
Me, the extra 10kg of ballast round my middle was too noticeable as was the 2 years of not regularly cycle commuting, however with the car OOS I was committed to cycling 11 miles to site. An hour of steady riding got me here though so all good.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Joe.B on 27 November, 2018, 06:12:12 pm
I'm working away in Barrow-in-Furness this week and not being able to take another week in a Barrow hotel I've decided to stay 10 miles away in Ulverston and cycle in each day.  Unfortunatly I've picked the most stormy week so far this winter to do so. The ride in this morning zig-zagging along the country lanes was quite pleasent but on the return leg I've had one hek of a wet ride. Soaked doesn't really fully describe my condition on arrival back at the hotel, even my thus far reliable Seal Skinz gloves are completely water logged.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 27 November, 2018, 06:21:13 pm
Yeah it's wet out there. An hour up the coast I've just swamped my radiator with wet cycling kit. Look after yourself tomorrow, it's forecast to be rather wild. There's always the train from Ulverston to Barrow and back if you're struggling. No reservations needed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: markcjagar on 27 November, 2018, 07:02:03 pm
This morning; a dry, cold & mostly pleasant commute aside from 1 dickhead in a white van going straight from the right turn lane nearly taking me out in the process.

This evening; WET, cold & almost entirely filtering or drafting a bus up the bus lane for 2-3km. That and trying to move through junctions blocked by impatient idiots who don't seem to understand that by going when it turns green is a good idea if there's no where to go because all you do it clog the junction
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Joe.B on 27 November, 2018, 07:21:47 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 27 November, 2018, 06:21:13 pm
Yeah it's wet out there. An hour up the coast I've just swamped my radiator with wet cycling kit. Look after yourself tomorrow, it's forecast to be rather wild. There's always the train from Ulverston to Barrow and back if you're struggling. No reservations needed.

I did consider bailing out onto the train as I cycled past the station but managed to stiffen my resolve and carry on.  Looking at the forecast though letting the train take the strain will probably be a sensible choice for tomorrow's return journey.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DuncanM on 28 November, 2018, 09:09:43 am
Rain and dark, seems to bring out the ninja cyclists (there ought to be an acronym like in the mortgage industry Ninja means No income, no job, (no) assets). One wearing black jacket and trousers, dark blue bike, no reflectors on the bike or lights of any kind, riding with his hood up. One, on a Brompton, which had reflectors but nothing else.
I'm not a hi-viz enthusiast, but the other cyclist/POB with no lights this morning was wearing something like an Altura Nevis, and they were much easier to spot than the other 2.

Obviously there were plenty of well lit cyclists, and the usual instances of idiotic driving as well...  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 28 November, 2018, 09:57:57 am
Yes I nearly collected a ninja this morning, although a stop at the lights revealed this one had lights, lots of them in fact, just none with any batteries in  ::-)

Now I have a bit of a reputation amongst my cycling workmates for what I term positive filtering but last night I encountered an e-biker on Kings Road, oh $deity that was scary stuff, in the space of a couple of hundred yards he bounced off the side of an estate car and WVM, dodged a little hatch crossing on the x-roads before disappearing off down the narrowest channel you've ever seen at warp factor R. Needless to say he was stuck at the lights outside Stretford Mall when I got there, lights changed and he underestimated the acceleration of the guy on a Boardman in front and nearly took his front wheel out after not quite completing the overtake before some more loony tunes filtering.

I'll be surprised if he's about to see Christmas.

The wind is making it hard work at the minute, although there's plenty of room in the bike shed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 28 November, 2018, 06:41:44 pm
Tonight's ride home was proper Audax training, directly into the teeth of the Southerly wind and rain.

I've managed to use 3 pairs of socks on today's cycling, but I was prepared for that and had the requisite number to hand.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 28 November, 2018, 07:03:38 pm
It's gonna be mad tomorrow.  48mph gusts here and heavy rain.  Storm Diana.  I might take a bike with gears.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ianrobo on 28 November, 2018, 07:04:37 pm
Quote from: rogerzilla on 28 November, 2018, 07:03:38 pm
It's gonna be mad tomorrow.  48mph gusts here and heavy rain.  Storm Diana.  I might take a bike with gears.

ha ha I have been seeing that and fun may be an over used word but got to go to work right into the wind !!! I think it helps the fitness !!

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ianrobo on 28 November, 2018, 07:45:46 pm
Well this was a fun incident today on a major Island, I dread to think what would have happened if I had not anticipated what he was going to do

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n6KppgzSK2I
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 28 November, 2018, 08:17:25 pm
HGV drivers do that when I'm in the car.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 28 November, 2018, 08:53:57 pm
Well the ride home was fun. I'll have a tailwind like that again ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ianrobo on 28 November, 2018, 09:43:52 pm
Quote from: rogerzilla on 28 November, 2018, 08:17:25 pm
HGV drivers do that when I'm in the car.

yep so called professional drivers eh ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: quixoticgeek on 29 November, 2018, 01:48:17 am

Commuting at 2am in the rain for the first time was an interesting experience. On the whole, there's a lot less cyclists on the road. But the number with lights was well under half. For the most part I could only see them because of their pedal reflectors being visible in the beam of my front light. One bike, which had a rider plus pillion, I only spotted because they went past a light and the brief obfuscation of the light showed them up.

Had mostly orange flashing lights for the journey, tho near Leidseplien, even tho I pressed the button, the junction went through 2 complete cycles before I concluded the button didn't work, so just decided to jump the red light when it was clear.

J
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 29 November, 2018, 08:43:00 am
Quote from: mcshroom on 28 November, 2018, 08:53:57 pm
Well the ride home was fun. I'll have a tailwind like that again ;D

In the nicest possible way - Git!

Yesterday morning SE=crosshead, last night SW=crosshead, this morning SE=crosshead, can you guess what tonight's forecast is?

Whatever it is I did or said Aeolus, I'm sorry.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 29 November, 2018, 01:32:55 pm
Another hard grind (south) in today. Looking forward to another flight home again tonight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 29 November, 2018, 05:56:59 pm
Grind in, not much of a tailwind home.  It eased off around lunchtime.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 29 November, 2018, 06:04:39 pm
Is it ever thus ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 30 November, 2018, 09:49:11 am
Woo, the wind failed to complete it's shift yesterday so pure cross and I got a tow most of the way off a very generous mate who took pity on the poor fat overdressed hippy.

Nice ride in today, cross tail and a lovely false dawn, I'm working tomorrow and may consider the cage given the forecast and total absence of trains all day  ??? but I always feel guilty driving into the city  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 30 November, 2018, 12:11:29 pm
Not me, and not today, but an interesting story.

Yesterday, my colleague was driving to work when she was involved in a collision.

She was on a country road just wide enough for two vehicles to pass each other. As she approached the brow of a hill a car coming from the other direction pulled out to overtake a cyclist.

There was no way that the manoeuvre could be completed safely without one or other party changing speed or direction.

My colleague braked hard, allowing the oncoming car to complete the overtake. The car behind my colleague’s didn’t stop in time and hit the back of her car.

Neither the oncoming car nor the cyclist stopped.

My colleague (who sometimes cycles but never to commute) seemed more surprised by the fact that the cyclist, as opposed to the driver, hadn’t stopped. So much so that I had to check with her that she held the driver to blame. She said that she did, but she couldn’t believe that the cyclist hadn’t stopped to check that she and the 3rd driver were okay.

I pointed out that the driver whose fault it seemed to be hadn’t stopped, and speculated that the cyclist (aside from having no duty to stop) might have been in a bit of a state about the whole thing. You know, having just dodged a bullet, and might not have been thinking about anyone else immediately, but she seemed focused on the cyclist. She mentioned that she often sees this cyclist, that she doesn’t have any lights on her bike (visibility wasn’t an issue: I checked), and rides with “her coat flapping around”.

I was very surprised. This colleague is a fantastic person and a friend. She might have been in shock. I did ask and she said she was fine, but you don’t know.

It might also be that she identified more with the cyclist than the driver, which might explain why she was more surprised by the cyclist’s ‘failure’ to behave as she would have done, than the other driver’s failure to do so.

But still, it has left me uneasy. If my otherwise reasonable friend is able, apparently, to find a degree of fault in the cyclist’s behaviour in this scenario, what hope for us as cyclists at large?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 30 November, 2018, 01:08:06 pm
But did the cyclist have a helmet? But really the car that hit was to blame. she could have seen something in the road forcing her to brake suddenly. The person who went into her should (as we all do) left sufficient space to allow for such an incident
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 30 November, 2018, 01:21:23 pm
As a cyclist, I'm happy to stop at the scene of a collision if someone is injured, or to lend a hand pushing a broken-down car out of the way, I'm much less inclined to delay myself and/or hang around in the cold just for the benefit of drivers who've failed to control their cars properly.  Particularly if there's a risk that said drivers might blame me for their incident, because BloodyCyclists.

I can see how your colleague would see the cyclist as a strong independent witness to the event, thobut.  Hopefully a rear-end collision is unambiguous enough that it doesn't matter.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 03 December, 2018, 09:32:25 am
Quote from: Kim on 30 November, 2018, 01:21:23 pm
As a cyclist, I'm happy to stop at the scene of a collision if someone is injured, or to lend a hand pushing a broken-down car out of the way, I'm much less inclined to delay myself and/or hang around in the cold just for the benefit of drivers who've failed to control their cars properly.  Particularly if there's a risk that said drivers might blame me for their incident, because BloodyCyclists.

I can see how your colleague would see the cyclist as a strong independent witness to the event, thobut.  Hopefully a rear-end collision is unambiguous enough that it doesn't matter.

This bit really, car drivers do have a habit of blaming the obstacle (as they see it) for their own stupidity. There's no value sticking around if it's a minor prang that the drivers can't sort out for themselves (they got themselves into the predicament in the first place).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 03 December, 2018, 12:01:31 pm
This morning on the brand new segregated  cycle track along lea Bridge Road, had to brake to avoid a collision with a van who climbed onto the cycle track so he could park on the pavement behind it....
Apparently he didn't see me.
Recklessness beyond belief.
Not sure I would want  my kids to ride there.

And 2 minutes later back on the road this time, got squeezed onto the gutter by a car joining from  side street on the right, another smidsy incident. All this Despite the  cyo lit up  in front.
Sigh.


Sent from my G8341 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: toontra on 03 December, 2018, 04:44:33 pm
Quote from: Arno on 03 December, 2018, 12:01:31 pm
This morning on the brand new segregated  cycle track along lea Bridge Road, had to brake to avoid a collision with a van who climbed onto the cycle track so he could park on the pavement behind it....
Apparently he didn't see me.
Recklessness beyond belief.
Not sure I would want  my kids to ride there.

And 2 minutes later back on the road this time, got squeezed onto the gutter by a car joining from  side street on the right, another smidsy incident. All this Despite the  cyo lit up  in front.
Sigh.


They spent a fortune installing the hard segregation for cyclists on Lea Valley Rd.  If a van driver had done that to me I'd have been bloody furious and would be taking photos for further action.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TJG on 03 December, 2018, 10:59:52 pm
This evening set a scary new record for the closest I have ever come to being wiped out by a crazy motorist. The driver of a large 4x4 pickup decided to overtake the wrong side of a traffic island just as I was heading through my side. They must have passed within 6 inches of me while doing 30+ mph in the opposite direction. I cannot believe they saw me and considered that a risk worth taking which means they were putting all their focus on just getting past the vehicle in front and they may even have collided if there was a car coming up the hill faster than they were expecting and not a skinny bike.  I think what shocked me the most looking back is how inured to this kind of incident I have become. 18 months ago I was barely able to continue riding due to the massive spike in heart rate and wobbly legs after a close pass.  This morning I think someone clipped a loose pannier strap that was flapping about and I just rode on thinking, "I wonder if that flicking sound was my loose strap or a stone flicking up, serve them right if that scratched their car, shall I stop and sort it out?  Meh it's not raining."   
When i got to work the plastic bit was gone from the strap so it was probably not a stone!   My wife normally gives me a lift to work on a Tuesday so maybe by Wednesday the thought of getting back on my bike will leave me a gibbering wreck.  At the moment  I cannot think of anything I would like to do less than go and sit by myself in a big metal box in a traffic jam.

A while ago my wife said she wanted me to put cameras on the bike and I thought why bother, it won't make me any safer and my general impression is S Yorkshire police are not too bothered about cyclists.  Now I wish I had them, even if just to show people in the office that I am not bullshitting when I tell them about things like this and ask them to drive a bit more considerately and stop counting driving time as a chance to schedule a few conference calls!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 04 December, 2018, 09:33:49 am
Quote from: toontra on 03 December, 2018, 04:44:33 pm
Quote from: Arno on 03 December, 2018, 12:01:31 pm
This morning on the brand new segregated  cycle track along lea Bridge Road, had to brake to avoid a collision with a van who climbed onto the cycle track so he could park on the pavement behind it....
Apparently he didn't see me.
Recklessness beyond belief.
Not sure I would want  my kids to ride there.

And 2 minutes later back on the road this time, got squeezed onto the gutter by a car joining from  side street on the right, another smidsy incident. All this Despite the  cyo lit up  in front.
Sigh.


They spent a fortune installing the hard segregation for cyclists on Lea Valley Rd.  If a van driver had done that to me I'd have been bloody furious and would be taking photos for further action.
I'm guessing that as it was in the morning, Arno is referring to the town-bound cycle track, rather  than the (costlier) Essex-bound  one on the opposite side of the road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bludger on 04 December, 2018, 03:46:12 pm
Quote from: TJG on 03 December, 2018, 10:59:52 pm
This evening set a scary new record for the closest I have ever come to being wiped out by a crazy motorist. The driver of a large 4x4 pickup decided to overtake the wrong side of a traffic island just as I was heading through my side. They must have passed within 6 inches of me while doing 30+ mph in the opposite direction.

This happened to me on Saturday night doing deliveroo on my own road. I had the hi vis on and a full set of lights, made no odds.

Didn't even stop to say sorry.

I have been thinking of packing cameras too but they're not cheap and my shifts last hours.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Deano on 04 December, 2018, 03:49:50 pm
Gorgeous crescent moon on the way in this morning - with what I think was Venus passing across it :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 04 December, 2018, 08:48:17 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 04 December, 2018, 09:33:49 am
Quote from: toontra on 03 December, 2018, 04:44:33 pm
Quote from: Arno on 03 December, 2018, 12:01:31 pm
This morning on the brand new segregated  cycle track along lea Bridge Road, had to brake to avoid a collision with a van who climbed onto the cycle track so he could park on the pavement behind it....
Apparently he didn't see me.
Recklessness beyond belief.
Not sure I would want  my kids to ride there.

And 2 minutes later back on the road this time, got squeezed onto the gutter by a car joining from  side street on the right, another smidsy incident. All this Despite the  cyo lit up  in front.
Sigh.


They spent a fortune installing the hard segregation for cyclists on Lea Valley Rd.  If a van driver had done that to me I'd have been bloody furious and would be taking photos for further action.
I'm guessing that as it was in the morning, Arno is referring to the town-bound cycle track, rather  than the (costlier) Essex-bound  one on the opposite side of the road.
Yes it was London bound. They are both the same age though no? i.e. Some segments still being build in both directions.

The van might have been owned by one of the shopkeepers who presumably might have been  able  to park near his shop legally before the track was build.

Sent from my G8341 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 04 December, 2018, 09:09:16 pm
Quote from: Deano on 04 December, 2018, 03:49:50 pm
Gorgeous crescent moon on the way in this morning - with what I think was Venus passing across it :)
Yes, Venus, burning bright.

A lovely crisp clear dry cold morning ride in. A grotty damp drizzly murky commute home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 06 December, 2018, 08:15:07 pm
A horse!

An escaped horse!

Running!

Running towards me!

Running towards me on the shared use path that's about 1m wide!

An escaped horse, running towards me, on a shared use path that's only 10 cm wider than it is!

Thank Jove I was on the bloody road.

It was a bit unnerving even so, but if I'd been on the path - as I sometimes am - it would have been brown trouser time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 07 December, 2018, 08:32:38 am
... or 'AG2R short' time, maybe.

My bottom half has been back to just shorts and and sandals these past couple of days. It's been warm enough, and there's less to dry out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Joe.B on 07 December, 2018, 05:06:05 pm
Not really on the commute as I was working from home today, or at least was supposed to be when in fact I took off on the bike to do some Christmas shopping.  On the return and while making a bit of a dash to get to little Joe's school on time a yappy little dog of some type decided to pick a fight with my bike and ended up under my rear tyre.  I'm guessing that the bloody thing was fine as it continued to chase me down the road.  The fancy cocktail glasses just bought for Mrs B and sitting in my pannier didn't come off quite so well.

I should add that I was on the road and not hurtling along the sort of shared path where you tend to be on guard for yappy little fur balls.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 09 December, 2018, 08:54:49 am
Quote from: Deano on 04 December, 2018, 03:49:50 pm
Gorgeous crescent moon on the way in this morning - with what I think was Venus passing across it :)

Bit sort of impossible, that... but I get your point.

Riding home about 0715, couple of flurries of very fine SNO.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 10 December, 2018, 08:39:26 pm
First dry road for a while.  Very good ride home on the big yellow Harry Quinn.  It is a perfect fixie (right BB height, CoG well back) and the position is just right on the drops.  Pretty fast getting up to speed, too, despite Durano Plus tyres.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 11 December, 2018, 08:32:47 am
A load of abuse off a motorcyclist on the A57 for not using the cycle lane, which then escalated somewhat a hundred yards later at the roundabout when he failed to perform a lifesaver and tried to filter into a space that I was already using to filter, what an angry individual, I don't think laughing at him helped.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mustgettaller on 11 December, 2018, 05:43:00 pm
Quote from: Steph on 09 December, 2018, 08:54:49 am
Quote from: Deano on 04 December, 2018, 03:49:50 pm
Gorgeous crescent moon on the way in this morning - with what I think was Venus passing across it :)

Bit sort of impossible, that... but I get your point.

Riding home about 0715, couple of flurries of very fine SNO.

Beat me to it. Venus passing across the face of the moon would have been distinctly scary! But like Steph, I think I know what you meant.  ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 12 December, 2018, 07:34:38 pm
This (https://www.wiltsglosstandard.co.uk/news/17292791.road-closed-and-police-in-hospital-after-a417-crash/)

Road was still closed at 16:20 so I had a little detour through Ampney Crucis and saw some really rather nice xmas lights in the village. Added a tiny bit more climbing to the ride so that was helpful.

Second time in as many weeks the road has been shut along that stretch because of an RTI.  Some pillock managed to roll his or her car in the wooded section between the Crown and Witpit lane.  HTF they managed that competely baffles me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 13 December, 2018, 08:36:28 am
That wind would have been a bit grim without a dose of the lurgy, the million dollar question is why the hell does the regular e-biker always sit on my wheel when it's blowing a sodding gale, he's quite happy to share the work when it's pleasant.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 17 December, 2018, 05:48:18 pm
Unexpected icefest on the way in meant a couple of long walking sections.

I can usually judge the conditions based on how things are at home, but I know the country road I take is significantly colder and holds ice much more than my street.  Got it badly wrong today. Thought it was mild enough but oh no.  Minus 2.5 on the cold country road, and like a skating rink.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 17 December, 2018, 06:48:33 pm
Yep. Much trickier than expected. A little rear wheel slide wasn’t enough to take me down but ensured I was fully focused for the rest of the ride.
 :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 18 December, 2018, 06:26:50 pm
 Old Testament rain.

Makes me wonder why I left the side vents on my otherwise adequately waterproof jacket open.

 ::-) :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 19 December, 2018, 08:24:05 am
There's either a decent tailwind or I'm finally getting over the lurgy, asked for a bit of power and there was enough there to catch onto the back of a passing bus  :thumbsup: , not been able to do that for a week or so.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peat on 19 December, 2018, 09:42:05 am
Quote from: Feanor on 17 December, 2018, 05:48:18 pm
Unexpected icefest on the way in meant a couple of long walking sections.

I can usually judge the conditions based on how things are at home, but I know the country road I take is significantly colder and holds ice much more than my street.  Got it badly wrong today. Thought it was mild enough but oh no.  Minus 2.5 on the cold country road, and like a skating rink.

Well, on Monday I got to work at 0630 and it was just wet. I went out for a coffee at 0800 and nearly went A over T because everything had frozen over.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 19 December, 2018, 01:09:00 pm
No rain, no gales, no ice, not that cold, just a bit damp. A mundane and soggy way to top 10,000 miles for the year.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: quixoticgeek on 19 December, 2018, 10:53:07 pm

Physio has told me to take it easy this week. I'm not allowed out of zone 2. Had the slowest rides to and from work the last couple of days. Unexpected side effect: not getting warm enough...

Cycling slowly and being overtaken by muggle cyclists is weird...

J
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chopper on 20 December, 2018, 08:50:43 am
Didn't check the forecast or even look out the window before setting off yesterday - but even if I had done it was only looking to be a drizzly grey day.

By the time I left work it was raining pretty hard, and going up the first hill I saw the first flash. The storm intensified, with constant lightning all around as I slogged up the second hill. I was hoping I might be able to hide in a church on the other side, but as I neared the top there was a lightning not 100 yards ahead.  I lost all nerve and shot back down the way I came, to the village I had just passed. I sheltered under a gatehouse for the better part of an hour, setting off once I judged hypothermia more likely than a lightning strike.

I was pretty shaken up when I got home, but a hot shower and large glass of whisky soon revived.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: EllysH on 20 December, 2018, 08:56:12 am


Quote from: Chopper on 20 December, 2018, 08:50:43 am


I was pretty shaken up when I got home, but a hot shower and large glass of whisky soon revived.

There's very little a large whiskey won't fix.

Sent from my PLK-L01 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 20 December, 2018, 10:21:19 pm
Drivers: When there's a cyclist riding towards you turn your stupid full beams off you selfish idiots!

Oh well, one more 2018 commute to go, and despite the dazzling prats my extended ride home today means I'm just 40km short of my target for the year - perhaps I should take the magicshine tomorrow and fight fire with fire :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: quixoticgeek on 21 December, 2018, 12:03:05 am
Quote from: mcshroom on 20 December, 2018, 10:21:19 pm
Drivers: When there's a cyclist riding towards you turn your stupid full beams off you selfish idiots!

Oh well, one more 2018 commute to go, and despite the dazzling prats my extended ride home today means I'm just 40km short of my target for the year - perhaps I should take the magicshine tomorrow and fight fire with fire :demon:

When cycling on rural lanes of Kent, I had taken to using 2 x 300lumen lamps. This was great, I could see really well and also be seen from a long distance. More importantly, car drivers would see me, and dip their beams as they approached.

What drives me insane in this however, is the number of drivers who upon realising I was a bike, would then wack the main beam back up. Usually this was done when they were only a few meters in front of me, and thus it would blind me for a couple of seconds. Not impressed...

J
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: slowfen on 21 December, 2018, 05:43:44 am
Quote from: quixoticgeek on 21 December, 2018, 12:03:05 am
Quote from: mcshroom on 20 December, 2018, 10:21:19 pm
Drivers: When there's a cyclist riding towards you turn your stupid full beams off you selfish idiots!

Oh well, one more 2018 commute to go, and despite the dazzling prats my extended ride home today means I'm just 40km short of my target for the year - perhaps I should take the magicshine tomorrow and fight fire with fire :demon:

When cycling on rural lanes of Kent, I had taken to using 2 x 300lumen lamps. This was great, I could see really well and also be seen from a long distance. More importantly, car drivers would see me, and dip their beams as they approached.

What drives me insane in this however, is the number of drivers who upon realising I was a bike, would then wack the main beam back up. Usually this was done when they were only a few meters in front of me, and thus it would blind me for a couple of seconds. Not impressed...

J

As some one who drives and cycles. I pass a cyclist (Fens) with a very bright flash and stupid bright steady, its at the point I slow due to degraded night vision. Have you considered that 2x300 with a std cone pattern of light might be blinding to the oncoming driver. I may be wrong, but set up your bike and the walk away and look at it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: quixoticgeek on 21 December, 2018, 09:38:14 am
Quote from: slowfen on 21 December, 2018, 05:43:44 am
When cycling on rural lanes of Kent, I had taken to using 2 x 300lumen lamps. This was great, I could see really well and also be seen from a long distance. More importantly, car drivers would see me, and dip their beams as they approached.

What drives me insane in this however, is the number of drivers who upon realising I was a bike, would then wack the main beam back up. Usually this was done when they were only a few meters in front of me, and thus it would blind me for a couple of seconds. Not impressed...

J

As some one who drives and cycles. I pass a cyclist (Fens) with a very bright flash and stupid bright steady, its at the point I slow due to degraded night vision. Have you considered that 2x300 with a std cone pattern of light might be blinding to the oncoming driver. I may be wrong, but set up your bike and the walk away and look at it.
[/quote]

No idea. These days I use an Edelux II. Does the trick.

J
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 21 December, 2018, 11:45:34 am
Last crossing of the year. The time off the bike means the decs haven't reached the full length of the pedestrian compartment.

Next year. (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20181221/8f1249613fd08411c64eadab15f6c091.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 27 December, 2018, 11:58:11 am
Because of $JOB reasons, first 24Km tryout of the Dangerous Banananana (N+1 - ooops, how did that happen? :P )

(https://i.imgur.com/6ZiLoR8.jpg)

Them pedals are gonna have to go, in favour of M520's, and the stopping's a bit "Yeah Yeah, I'll get around to it whenever..."

Mmm, Ashbury Hill on the way home - could be fun.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 27 December, 2018, 12:01:43 pm
Quote from: iddu on 27 December, 2018, 11:58:11 am
Because of $JOB reasons, first 24Km tryout of the Dangerous Banananana (N+1 - ooops, how did that happen? :P )

(https://i.imgur.com/6ZiLoR8.jpg)

Them pedals are gonna have to go, in favour of M520's, and the stopping's a bit "Yeah Yeah, I'll get around to it whenever..."

Mmm, Ashbury Hill on the way home - could be fun.


Going up it or down?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: iddu on 27 December, 2018, 12:07:54 pm
Up (came down this morning...)

[Sure some COR on the Ridgeway as an alternative would be fine ;D]
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 27 December, 2018, 01:14:53 pm
Quote from: iddu on 27 December, 2018, 11:58:11 am
Because of $JOB reasons, first 24Km tryout of the Dangerous Banananana (N+1 - ooops, how did that happen? :P )

(https://i.imgur.com/6ZiLoR8.jpg)

Them pedals are gonna have to go, in favour of M520's, and the stopping's a bit "Yeah Yeah, I'll get around to it whenever..."

Bromptons are IMHO the only bike that looks good in bright yellow.   :thumbsup:

Consider quick-release SPD pedals, of the type made my MKS or Wellgo.  This allows you to pull the left pedal off so it doesn't stick out when folded.  Or indeed swap in a set of flat pedals as appropriate.

Brompton brakes are something of a polite suggestion (more so with the pre-2013 designs).  I swapped to Koolstop salmon pads, which made for a slight improvement in the wet and seems to reduce rim wear a bit, but descending proper hills is still an exercise in hand stamina.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: yorkie on 27 December, 2018, 03:46:32 pm


Quote from: Kim on 27 December, 2018, 01:14:53 pm
Brompton brakes are something of a polite suggestion (more so with the pre-2013 designs).  I swapped to Koolstop salmon pads, which made for a slight improvement in the wet and seems to reduce rim wear a bit, but descending proper hills is still an exercise in hand stamina.

When I bought my Brompton in 1998, the original brakes were less a polite suggestion in the wet, more something to keep you occupied until you arrived at the inevitable crash!

When Brompton brought out the "New, Improved Brakes and Levers" a few years later, I upgraded my Brompton so that I could stop without having to give three weeks notice in writing of my intention to decelerate.
I suppose one of these days I will eventually remember to put some decent blocks on the bike, but not until the old ones wear out. If indeed they ever will! (Tight Yorkshireman!!)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: markcjagar on 27 December, 2018, 06:21:34 pm
eerily quiet on the way home tonight, only really needed to filter once (near Meadowhell)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 28 December, 2018, 09:57:48 am
Quote from: Kim on 27 December, 2018, 01:14:53 pm

Bromptons are IMHO the only bike that looks good in bright yellow.   :thumbsup:


Pish and, moreover, tosh!  Whither the Kingcycle?  Very few have even been resprayed ;)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 28 December, 2018, 01:48:02 pm
Quote from: Mr Larrington on 28 December, 2018, 09:57:48 am
Quote from: Kim on 27 December, 2018, 01:14:53 pm

Bromptons are IMHO the only bike that looks good in bright yellow.   :thumbsup:


Pish and, moreover, tosh!  Whither the Kingcycle?  Very few have even been resprayed ;)

Yes, I was specifically thinking of the Kingcycle when I wrote that  :P

You might as well dress up as Bananaman...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 28 December, 2018, 01:53:29 pm
A flat tyre this morning. In the words of that great Aussie philosopher "Such is life"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 31 December, 2018, 10:03:31 pm
Central London road closures made getting home this evening a right PITA.  Earlier, I was surprised how soon they started shutting down Whitehall/Westminster this afternoon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 09 January, 2019, 03:49:42 pm
Good sunny ride in, frosty, but no ice...

(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7815/46677399361_44bc144ba8_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2e7HSBB)IMG_20190109 (https://flic.kr/p/2e7HSBB) by a oxon (https://www.flickr.com/photos/145942400@N06/), on Flickr

Low sun conditions though make me a tad 'edgy'...

(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7865/45952787264_298a426022_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2d1G3FA)VIRB (https://flic.kr/p/2d1G3FA) by a oxon (https://www.flickr.com/photos/145942400@N06/), on Flickr

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: djrikki on 09 January, 2019, 04:04:32 pm
Quote from: quixoticgeek on 21 December, 2018, 12:03:05 am
Quote from: mcshroom on 20 December, 2018, 10:21:19 pm
Drivers: When there's a cyclist riding towards you turn your stupid full beams off you selfish idiots!

Oh well, one more 2018 commute to go, and despite the dazzling prats my extended ride home today means I'm just 40km short of my target for the year - perhaps I should take the magicshine tomorrow and fight fire with fire :demon:

When cycling on rural lanes of Kent, I had taken to using 2 x 300lumen lamps. This was great, I could see really well and also be seen from a long distance. More importantly, car drivers would see me, and dip their beams as they approached.

What drives me insane in this however, is the number of drivers who upon realising I was a bike, would then wack the main beam back up. Usually this was done when they were only a few meters in front of me, and thus it would blind me for a couple of seconds. Not impressed...

J

When this happens to me I waft my hand in front of my light to simulate "flashing my lights" - doesn't always work, but I've known it to on many occasions.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mattc on 10 January, 2019, 12:34:21 pm
BN: first punct**e of this winter. (in the dark, -2'c, lovely)

GN: located the thorn* wiv headtorch (always nice to know there was some point to dragging such things around for years), and after about 10mins a little-old-lady came over and offered me "a hot drink".

I declined, but it was a lovely offer  :thumbsup: :-*



*I never get thorns in my tyres (just flints). Except in hedge-trimming season, and our Sustrans route was carpeted with debris last night, so it wasn't surprising in hindsight. I shall detour tonight ...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 16 January, 2019, 08:24:57 pm
I was following a very loud Ford Mustang for a bit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: quixoticgeek on 17 January, 2019, 10:11:47 pm
Not on the commute as such, but rush hour city cycling. I was riding along just after sunset, and I noticed 2 bike cops loitering very close to a building, maybe 2-3m from the cycle path. Then I realised why they were there, and slammed on the anchors. Turned on front and rear lights, nodded to them both, and rode off. 50m further down I spotted another cop loitering close to a building in the shade of some brickwork pillar type affair, where you wouldn't notice him.

I'm guessing they were out looking for people without lights, or brommers being brommers. Sneaky tho...

Hadn't realised how much I'd got used to the Dynamo lights on the big bike. Having to turn on the battery lights of the Brompton feels weird now...

J
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 25 January, 2019, 05:05:52 pm
Starting a new job next week after having worked from home the last 10months.
I'm kind of looking forward to the commute, its a bit longer than ideal (20km each way) but I can use the canal path.
I'm going to do a trial commute tomorrow morning for timing / dodgy bits / etc.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jimmea on 25 January, 2019, 05:21:06 pm
Quote from: sg37409 on 25 January, 2019, 05:05:52 pm
Starting a new job next week after having worked from home the last 10months.
I'm kind of looking forward to the commute, its a bit longer than ideal (20km each way) but I can use the canal path.
I'm going to do a trial commute tomorrow morning for timing / dodgy bits / etc.

Commuting into town? you'll have to get a helmet cam and perfect your high pitched scream  :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: diapsaon0 on 25 January, 2019, 05:34:08 pm
Quote from: quixoticgeek on 17 January, 2019, 10:11:47 pm
Not on the commute as such, but rush hour city cycling. I was riding along just after sunset, and I noticed 2 bike cops loitering very close to a building, maybe 2-3m from the cycle path. Then I realised why they were there, and slammed on the anchors. Turned on front and rear lights, nodded to them both, and rode off. 50m further down I spotted another cop loitering close to a building in the shade of some brickwork pillar type affair, where you wouldn't notice him.

I'm guessing they were out looking for people without lights, or brommers being brommers. Sneaky tho...

Hadn't realised how much I'd got used to the Dynamo lights on the big bike. Having to turn on the battery lights of the Brompton feels weird now...

J



Better if they were out catching real villains!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 25 January, 2019, 05:40:09 pm
I think I was spoiled by my Edinburgh commute. Traffic seemed very aware and I had bus lanes most of the way.   My OCD was irritated by my total of 799 commutes with very few issues ( only 1 shouting match with a taxi). east Dunbartonshire drivers are very different and I am thinking about a camera 🙁
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: markcjagar on 28 January, 2019, 08:50:41 pm
Rear gear cable snapped about a mile into the ride home which made the next 6 miles of stop/start quite difficult/frustrating. Fixed it when I got home...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 29 January, 2019, 05:27:58 pm
Blizzard!  Very wet snow.  I had a Buff as a balaclava and a Gore-Tex cap, which kept the worst of it off my face.  Hands utterly freezing though, once the gloves were soaked.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 29 January, 2019, 10:07:42 pm
Yesterday heading home. Stopped at the traffic lights. W**kpanzer draws up behind me. I set off, going straight on (crossroads). WP accellerates and left hooks me. Fortunately I was reasonably alert so was able to avoid a collision.
Video front and rear. So the local plod are taking an interest, especially as it looks like the shiny 4 year old car has not been kept in the manner to which the govt would like with regard to paying car duty.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: diapsaon0 on 29 January, 2019, 10:14:39 pm
Quote from: David Martin on 29 January, 2019, 10:07:42 pm
...... especially as it looks like the shiny 4 year old car has not been kept in the manner to which the govt would like with regard to paying car duty.


Probably nicked!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 29 January, 2019, 10:30:42 pm
Hopefully the driver will be...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TigaSefi on 30 January, 2019, 12:06:22 am
I laughed loudly during my bike ride on roads near Chelsea Bridge which was backed up due to a road closure. So satisfying to pass so many oversized vehicles to do a 3 mile trip each way. No cycle lanes either so I cannot be blamed for the congestion either.

*painted road lines aren’t “lanes”
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 30 January, 2019, 09:57:07 am
Quote from: TigaSefi on 30 January, 2019, 12:06:22 am
I laughed loudly during my bike ride on roads near Chelsea Bridge which was backed up due to a road closure. So satisfying to pass so many oversized vehicles to do a 3 mile trip each way. No cycle lanes either so I cannot be blamed for the congestion either.

*painted road lines aren’t “lanes”

Sorry, all congestion in London is the fault of bike lanes (and not the number of cars). This is a universal truth. In fact, there was no congestion at all in London before they built them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 30 January, 2019, 10:04:54 am
Quote from: TigaSefi on 30 January, 2019, 12:06:22 am
I laughed loudly during my bike ride on roads near Chelsea Bridge which was backed up due to a road closure. So satisfying to pass so many oversized vehicles to do a 3 mile trip each way. No cycle lanes either so I cannot be blamed for the congestion either.

*painted road lines aren’t “lanes”

Did Tim Hall hear you laughing? https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=87845.msg2364671#msg2364671  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 30 January, 2019, 02:21:20 pm
Working from home today but tomorrow evening looks apocalyptic.  I'm going to fit the Hakkapeliittas to the Cinder Cone.  I could drive in (winter tyres, front-wheel-drive, easy) but experience suggests that every road out of Swindon will be blocked by muppets crashing within 15 minutes of any snowfall.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: diapsaon0 on 30 January, 2019, 02:32:38 pm
Quote from: rogerzilla on 30 January, 2019, 02:21:20 pm
Working from home today but tomorrow evening looks apocalyptic.  I'm going to fit the Hakkapeliittas to the Cinder Cone.  I could drive in (winter tyres, front-wheel-drive, easy) but experience suggests that every road out of Swindon will be blocked by muppets crashing within 15 minutes of any snowfall.

Especially in the vicinity of The Magic Roundabout.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 31 January, 2019, 08:17:53 am
Quote from: sg37409 on 25 January, 2019, 05:05:52 pm
Starting a new job next week after having worked from home the last 10months.
I'm kind of looking forward to the commute, its a bit longer than ideal (20km each way) but I can use the canal path.
I'm going to do a trial commute tomorrow morning for timing / dodgy bits / etc.

Cold but enjoyed my first commute this morning.  The canal seems a very good option
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 31 January, 2019, 08:27:52 am
A cow-orker has told me her car registered -9 on the way in. No wonder it felt bloody cold on the bike!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 31 January, 2019, 09:15:42 am
Quote from: sg37409 on 31 January, 2019, 08:17:53 am
Quote from: sg37409 on 25 January, 2019, 05:05:52 pm
Starting a new job next week after having worked from home the last 10months.
I'm kind of looking forward to the commute, its a bit longer than ideal (20km each way) but I can use the canal path.
I'm going to do a trial commute tomorrow morning for timing / dodgy bits / etc.

Cold but enjoyed my first commute this morning.  The canal seems a very good option

Have you tried the tow-path?  :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 31 January, 2019, 10:19:04 am
Another flat today, two industrial staples through the back tyre. Taking off the lobster gloves for the repair meant my fingers weren't feeling anything long before I'd finished. They'd just about come back to life by the time I arrived at work after 30 minutes riding. Three flats this month, two on a worn tyre and one on a new one. Hopefully I get a decent run for the rest of winter.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Joe.B on 31 January, 2019, 12:11:39 pm
I’ve been manning our satellite office in Barrow-in-Furness again this week and riding in from my hotel in Ulverston each day.

Day 1, With laptop and files in one panier and boots and clothing the other the bike weighed a ton. I got completely soaked in torrential rain then cocked up the navigation and did an extra 4 miles.  Just about managed to get everything dried out by 1600 and had a pleasant ride back to the hotel.

Day 2, Very, very cold. Lots of ice and snow on the lanes but it wasn’t an unpleasant ride.  Frozen shifter cables made gear changes difficult.  Return ride was good.

Day 3, Even colder, shifter cables frozen again and despite riding on Conti Top Contact Winters I completely lost traction climbing one of the lanes with the rear continuously spinning, walking wasn’t much easier.  I’m finishing here today so will have a full set of paniers again this afternoon, adding to that the stiff headwind that’s forecast I might just bail out onto the train but at least I’ve already done 60 miles that I wouldn’t normally get to ride:)

I’m back here again in 3 weeks and have already booked into the same hotel:)   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 31 January, 2019, 12:28:46 pm
Cycling home the other night (pre-snow). narrow b-road with refuges and a nearly 90 deg l/h bend and a driver behind me sounding his horn for daring to be in front of him. I held my position (nowhere else to go) and we get to the mini roundabout where I pull over to the left and allow them to pass. He sounds his horn again and then joins the 1 km long queue which I move up the outside of  ;D bye, bye! We live this dream every day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 31 January, 2019, 01:15:52 pm
Quote from: Pingu on 31 January, 2019, 09:15:42 am
Quote from: sg37409 on 31 January, 2019, 08:17:53 am
Quote from: sg37409 on 25 January, 2019, 05:05:52 pm
Starting a new job next week after having worked from home the last 10months.
I'm kind of looking forward to the commute, its a bit longer than ideal (20km each way) but I can use the canal path.
I'm going to do a trial commute tomorrow morning for timing / dodgy bits / etc.

Cold but enjoyed my first commute this morning.  The canal seems a very good option

Have you tried the tow-path?  :P

 :thumbsup:
I probably could have used the canal this morning it was that cold.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 31 January, 2019, 01:19:23 pm
Quote from: Joe.B on 31 January, 2019, 12:11:39 pm
I’ve been manning our satellite office in Barrow-in-Furness again this week and riding in from my hotel in Ulverston each day.
... cocked up the navigation and did an extra 4 miles.

Quite impressive cock up to get that much extra in that short a run.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 31 January, 2019, 06:04:24 pm
-6.6°C when I set off this morning.  Snow hasn't come yet but it's noticeably warmer - a balmy 0.4 right now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Joe.B on 31 January, 2019, 06:42:54 pm
Quote from: sg37409 on 31 January, 2019, 01:19:23 pm
Quote from: Joe.B on 31 January, 2019, 12:11:39 pm
I’ve been manning our satellite office in Barrow-in-Furness again this week and riding in from my hotel in Ulverston each day.
... cocked up the navigation and did an extra 4 miles.

Quite impressive cock up to get that much extra in that short a run.

Yes, after making a wrong turn I made an impromptu decision to use the coast road rather than my customary route zigzagging along the quite lanes.  Turns out that the coast road is a 15 mile ride were as my usual route is 11.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 01 February, 2019, 07:57:31 am
Crashed. Hit head. Face full of grit. In hospital for observation as have memory loss.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 01 February, 2019, 08:04:52 am
Quote from: mrcharly-YHT on 01 February, 2019, 07:57:31 am
Crashed. Hit head. Face full of grit. In hospital for observation as have memory loss.

Ouch! Hope you feel better soon
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jakob W on 01 February, 2019, 08:40:55 am
Ouch - heal soon, and take care of yourself!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 01 February, 2019, 08:51:11 am
Quote from: mrcharly-YHT on 01 February, 2019, 07:57:31 am
Crashed. Hit head. Face full of grit. In hospital for observation as have memory loss.

Oh no! I hope you heal fast and there is not too much damage.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: EllysH on 01 February, 2019, 08:57:40 am
Quote from: mrcharly-YHT on 01 February, 2019, 07:57:31 am
Crashed. Hit head. Face full of grit. In hospital for observation as have memory loss.
My cue to forgo the bike and take the tube.

Hope you're okay!

Sent from my PLK-L01 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 01 February, 2019, 01:42:53 pm
Cripes, GWS!

(Is the bike okay?)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 01 February, 2019, 04:28:10 pm
Quote from: Kim on 01 February, 2019, 01:42:53 pm
Cripes, GWS!

(Is the bike okay?)
I think so. Haven't checked yet. Released from hospital.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 01 February, 2019, 06:35:40 pm
Ouch! GWS! anything/one else involved?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 01 February, 2019, 07:16:32 pm
Released sounds like good news. I hope you’re ok.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 01 February, 2019, 07:35:40 pm
Quote from: Ham on 01 February, 2019, 06:35:40 pm
Ouch! GWS! anything/one else involved?
No idea, I have a 4 hour gap in my memory. Most likely I fell on ice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 03 February, 2019, 09:14:15 pm
On which subject...going out in the car this morning, -5 degrees and packed, shiny, sheet ice on our road.  Coming the other way was a girl on an MTB doing her paper round.  Normal MTB tyres, normal non-bike clothes, not even a woolly hat, steering with one hand while texting with the other.  It gave me the fantods just to look at her.

I assume she's never fallen off on ice!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 05 February, 2019, 11:06:09 am
Had a fairly rare (for me) nasty close pass by an anonymous transit at 45-60mph, as oncoming HGV approached.  Close enough for me to have been able to touch the side of the van.  I was in nearside tyre track (A-road) and transit hardly even crossed the centre line...   >:(  I do VIRB my commute and was tempted to submit via Nextbase (https://www.nextbase.com/en-gb/national-dash-cam-safety-portal/), but can't see much being done...  Really annoyed me for quite a while post incident.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 05 February, 2019, 11:27:29 am
Quote from: mrcharly-YHT on 01 February, 2019, 07:57:31 am
Crashed. Hit head. Face full of grit. In hospital for observation as have memory loss.

Just seen this - hope the recovery goes well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 05 February, 2019, 07:42:40 pm
Quote from: mrcharly-YHT on 01 February, 2019, 07:57:31 am
Crashed. Hit head. Face full of grit. In hospital for observation as have memory loss.
Bugger. Hope you get back on the bike soon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: David Martin on 05 February, 2019, 11:36:08 pm
Quote from: David Martin on 29 January, 2019, 10:30:42 pm
Hopefully the driver will be...
Follow up. Very nice policeman (why are they all so young these days) took a statement and was hoping his sergeant would let him do the visit. Didn't see much hope of a prosecution by the Fiscal as there was no collision but seemed happy to nick the owner for no tax (and hence no insurance) and give them a stern talking to.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 06 February, 2019, 07:59:17 am
Pleasant ride in this morning especially after last nights soaking. Still dropping below freezing at night, so not much manky spray from the canal path this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 06 February, 2019, 08:43:25 pm
Mild (7-8C) ride back, but hit two holes that actually made my bell ping.  Fortunately 65psi in the front 28mm was wasn't* enough to avoid pinch p$nctures.

*flat the next morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 06 February, 2019, 10:08:42 pm
Just seen this - GWS mrcharly

Nice, mild ride home today, past the queues of stationary traffic caused by a crash on the only main road through wetwet Cumbria. I think I could've felt more smug if I hadn't had to fix a puncture before I could ride home ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 13 February, 2019, 07:13:15 am
Halfway home yesterday, a driver decided to pull over and then U-turn as I overtook him. Bike is fine but I had to ride home one-handed. It took an hour for me to get dressed this morning, despite relying on the power of swear. I think my left rotator cuff is gone, judging by past injuries. Time to hassle the GP this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Danu on 13 February, 2019, 07:16:06 am
And the police. Hope you recover soon
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peat on 13 February, 2019, 09:12:47 am
Quote from: Danu on 13 February, 2019, 07:16:06 am
And the police. Hope you recover soon

Absolutely. It's just complete negligence, it wouldn't be tolerated on a work site yet we're all allowed to kill each other out on the road and claim SMIDSY. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peat on 13 February, 2019, 09:22:31 am
Troubling one for me this morning. I rode in, left at 6am, takes me about 35mins.

Near the end of my journey, there is a long stretch of A road with an accompanying cycle path/pavement. It's in pretty bad condition, lumpy and bumpy, but not alot worse than the road next to it. Some commuting cyclists refuse to use it, as is their want (If i was on <25mm tyres, I probably wouldn't either), and incurr the wrath of the baying mob of cagers.

I used it, but I join it slightly later than people would like to avoid 2x turnings that make the cycle path deviate so that you are required to look behind you to see if it's safe to cross. So, I bypass that crap infrastructure design and join it just before it goes from 30 to NSL.

As i indicated and moved off the road onto the cycle path, a Honda SUV thing came alongside (still in the 30) with his FL wheel on the white line, almost scuffing the curb. They then accelerated away harshly as they got to the NSL sign. I can only take that as a punishment pass / "get on the cycle path you lycra ***". If you're THAT unhappy at 0630 on fairly uncongested roads, I really pity you.

Spoiled what was an otherwise nice ride in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: markcjagar on 13 February, 2019, 06:35:26 pm
hit the deck this morning

went over some diesel whilst cornering and lost it at ~30km/h

left brifter is smashed beyond repair, grazed right knee, tender palms from impact, pride wounded
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 13 February, 2019, 08:19:48 pm
Woah ! A fast crash. Bad, but sounds like it could have been worse.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 13 February, 2019, 08:27:41 pm
Quote from: markcjagar on 13 February, 2019, 06:35:26 pm
hit the deck this morning

went over some diesel whilst cornering and lost it at ~30km/h

left brifter is smashed beyond repair, grazed right knee, tender palms from impact, pride wounded
Left brifter and right knee !  That sounds spectacular. Hope you get mended soon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 13 February, 2019, 08:30:53 pm
I had my first shout of "Get in the cycle lane you **&*@@ this morning. Haven't had one of those in months.

Bless.

Except that the wound up twat deliberately took up half the cycle lane so I couldn't go past him on that side and then swung out wide when I tried going past him on the outside. And, to top it all, at the point where I did go past him and he delivered his well thought through witticism, the cycle lane is no more.

Twat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: markcjagar on 13 February, 2019, 09:06:18 pm
Quote from: sg37409 on 13 February, 2019, 08:19:48 pm
Woah ! A fast crash. Bad, but sounds like it could have been worse.

Fast but not much sliding, fortunately

Quote from: hatler on 13 February, 2019, 08:27:41 pm
Left brifter and right knee !  That sounds spectacular. Hope you get mended soon.

I'm sure it was quite a show for the driver behind me and the one waiting to join the roundabout to my left. Not feeling too bad all things considered.

edit: just watched the video, down and then back up and on the pavement in 10 seconds. adrenaline's awesome
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 20 February, 2019, 08:16:32 am
I was about 50 yards away when a badger wandered out from a wooded verge and sat down in my path. I gave the traditional badger warning shout - 'Oy! Badger!' - and it wandered over to the other side of the road, sat down and watched as I passed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 21 February, 2019, 12:53:40 pm
Not going to lie, coming off turning right on a slippery mini rab, spoiled the commute somewhat.  Not too bad, couple of grazes on leg (https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=19419.msg2372053#msg2372053) & achey hand; scraped STI lever & hood.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 21 February, 2019, 01:43:44 pm
Saw it was going to be warm today, so wore 3/4's but also needed to lose the jacket.  Its suprising to think that the coldest weather of last winter came at the end of Feb and into March.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TheLurker on 21 February, 2019, 08:01:57 pm
First lambs of the year. As tradition demands they were at Poulton Fields.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 21 February, 2019, 08:18:19 pm
Yes, first lambs here too.
I was running, not onna bike today.
I took the time to stand and stare.

The farmer was still in the field, and it looked like they had all just been offloaded from a trailer.
Given the earliness in the year, and I am in Aberdeen, I suppose they must be lambing indoors.
The lambs looked to be at least a few weeks old, but I'm no expert.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peat on 22 February, 2019, 08:57:00 am
I too, was taken aback by the high pitched "Meeeeeeeh" coming from the paddock i was riding past. That is an early lambing.

A general note about this warm spell, spring has effectively sprung. Lots of wildlife out on the commute. I do hope the inevitable return to cold isn't too harsh for the poor little blighters. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 22 February, 2019, 09:07:43 am
Beware ice and snow, everyone, for I have removed my studded winter tyres.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mattc on 22 February, 2019, 09:57:25 am
Quote from: mrcharly-YHT on 22 February, 2019, 09:07:43 am
Beware ice and snow, everyone, for I have removed my studded winter tyres.
:hand: Before end-o-Feb?? Madness!

I think you've let us down here MrC. But thanks for the warning anyway.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 22 February, 2019, 10:32:27 am
A cyclist drew alongside me last night and commented that winter kit was now put away.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: phantasmagoriana on 22 February, 2019, 12:25:53 pm
Last year the cold snap hit on 28th Feb...don't put the winter kit away yet! :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 27 February, 2019, 08:18:31 am
Another beautiful morning, very cold on the canal path though. Some guys in the office this morning were moaning about how bad the traffic was.   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 27 February, 2019, 12:28:30 pm
Quote from: pumpkin on 22 February, 2019, 10:32:27 am
A cyclist drew alongside me last night and commented that winter kit was now put away.

I had that conversation yesterday, though it was "You look sensibly dressed, my husband's put away his winter kit entirely!".  Hopefully the studded tyres still firmly installed on my mountain bike will cancel that out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 28 February, 2019, 06:33:10 pm
Another puncture. The flailing season has got me this year. Luckily I was close enough to home that I could roll it in on the 20psi or so that's still in the tyre so I can fix it later. Also today, I reminded myself how useful the bit in front of the forks is on front mudguards. I'm glad I've got proper guards on order for the Genesis as Raceblades don't really protect your face/body from spray.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 28 February, 2019, 07:52:20 pm
Yesterday.

I've been on the current commute for a bit over a year and a half now. In my first two weeks I saw three car/bike comings together, and nothing since, until yesterday.

London, CS 7, going home, Stockwell area. Slow traffic in the right lane, a bunch of bonkers (too) fast cyclists just ahead of me in the combined bus/cycle lane. Car coming towards us turns to its right across the oncoming peloton. Chap somewhere near the front ended up going over the bars and onto the pavement (though no contact with the car). Pride dented and a few scuffs and scrapes on both bike and human. He was probably feeling a bit sore today.

Then, a couple of miles later, Upper Tooting Road, my least favourite section of the commute, a couple of ambulances and a couple of police cars. Same scenario, car coming from the other direction stopped and a cyclist being cradled by a couple of the paramedics. He was at least conscious. I suspect he's going to hurt a bit more than the other chap today. He did make contact with the car. Ugly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: EllysH on 28 February, 2019, 10:52:15 pm
Finally replaced the front tyre of the bike this morning - paid extra for next day delivery.

Excuse is, I'll be saving money on the train fare.

Sent from my PLK-L01 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 08 March, 2019, 09:27:04 am
A trip across town (Mcr) and a pothole trashed a wheel. Didnt seem to hit the hole that hard but the edge of the rim is buckled and the brake track has a flange in it. It was a wheel that's had a long life but still irritating.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 08 March, 2019, 08:32:19 pm
Beautiful cold dry still morning, wet horrid ride home. At least I had a tailwind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 08 March, 2019, 09:06:05 pm
I actually commuted beyond the station, which was nice.
I realised I’d forgotten keys, phone and door pass about 15 minutes out, so recovered that.
On the way back, dark and drizzly, my torch wasn’t as bright as I remember and the really bright bike light behind me cast pretty deep shadows where I was in the way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 11 March, 2019, 10:29:55 am
Me!  :o Car had to go in for Service and MOT so I stuck the bike in the back and rode the rest of the way into work.

I remembered shoes, change of clothes, bags but forgot to put my helmet and gloves in the car.  :facepalm: fortunately the wrong season gloves live in the coat pockets so I had the choice of full winter gloves or mitts but not my lighter full finger gloves.

The wind in my hair felt nice but also since a head injury 30 years ago I think I can count the number of bike rides without a helmet on one hand.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 11 March, 2019, 11:59:51 am
This fits equally well in the Motorised Moron thread or here, I suppose.

There's a new junction on my commute, where the road passes over the new City Bypass.  The road is a normal one lane each way urban A-road with a standard magic paint cycle lane. 

Since the bypass was built, there is a new sliproad which comes off on the left, to access the bypass.  The exit slip is about 20 m long.  The cycle lane continues straight ahead, but it is now in the middle between 2 lanes of traffic: the original traffic going straight ahead on my right, and now traffic exiting onto the bypass on my left.

This is, of course, an invitation to left-hook.
On the approach to the junction, I get cars passing on my right and then swerving across the front of me to exit.

Today, one idiot excelled himself by coming up alongside me on my right when I was already about half-way through the junction, and then blaring his horn and gesticulating wildly that I was 'in his way', and he wanted to get into the exit lane *through* me.  I'm not sure what he expected me to do, my magic 'vanish' button is not working, and wiggle are out of stock.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 11 March, 2019, 12:08:18 pm
I think I would be holding my line and letting him sort himself out, probably by missing the junction and having to go straight on.  :demon:

Depending on both traffic density and speed, I may even consider merging out into the outside lane on approach to the junction and getting right out of the way of the traffic going left. Obviously to do this you need to be able to match or nearly match the traffic speed so as not to get the traffic going straight on too frustrated.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 11 March, 2019, 12:49:54 pm
That happens chronically at this roundabout bypass, and it can be utterly terrifying in the wet: https://goo.gl/maps/zEehLUNyGUH2

The only thing I've found that helps is to take an *extremely* assertive position - as if you were about to make a right turn from the left hand lane - and spin like a maniac, in the hope that drivers get the message that you're not holding them up deliberately.  The whole thing's exacerbated by the uphill approach robbing you of any real speed.  Sometimes the drivers get impatient, pass you on the right, then move left and perform a left turn at the roundabout.  No, it isn't quicker.

I hadn't considered using the right hand lane, but since there's not a lot of room to move left before the roundabout, I don't think it would really be an improvement.

Fortunately, Mr Sainsbury has recently relocated his emporium of toothy comestibles, so I no longer find myself having to negotiate it with heavily laden panniers.  (Instead we get to play car-park slalom in order to achieve level access to the now-useful shared-use bollocks without mowing down too many pedestrians.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 11 March, 2019, 02:18:10 pm
The southbound escape from Brixton is like that, Brixton Road splits into Effra Road and Brixton Hill. I want the latter. There's no good positioning that won't result in badness. Drivers will come up your right side and cut across unless you're completely over to the right, in which you'll be trapped by cars zooming up your inside. As a boon, it's uphill, so you can't rely on acceleration to get you out of trouble. The only 'safe' way across is to tuck in beside a bus. These days, I mostly just scoot along the pavement across Windrush Square. Life is too short to make it any shorter.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 11 March, 2019, 05:07:46 pm
Apropos of nothing, just general carnage, on the previous two Friday's I've cycled home I've seen bodies in the road, neither looked good. Last Friday was near Purley, ambulances, several police cars, clustered around what looked like a pedestrian sprawled in the road. A woman, evidently the driver as she was standing by a car with a dented front, was wailing by the road side and being consoled by another group of police officers. Two weeks before, pretty much the same scene and not even that far away.

It says something that I can't find a single note in the press about either despite them both looking serious.

Not the most cheering sight on a ride home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 11 March, 2019, 07:57:14 pm
Two incidents this morning.

1  Driver in car got frustrated with slow moving (and left-turning) car in front at a set of lights so went through a very red. As soon as left-turning impediment was gone he booted it, and scared the willies out of two scooterists who had gunned it away from the lights (from the ASL). One went down (without any impact).

2  Cyclist in civvies and on a small wheeled foldery type thing (not a Brompton) managed to get it spectacularly wrong when pulling out round a stopping bus. Didn't see exactly what happened but he went AOT.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 11 March, 2019, 09:00:30 pm
Quote from: matthew on 11 March, 2019, 10:29:55 am
I think I can count the number of bike rides without a helmet on one hand.
I’m no expert but I think that if you’re going to wear one, it should be on your head.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 13 March, 2019, 12:30:57 pm
Turbo charged ride home last night on the back of storm Gareth. Not too wet either which was a bonus. Loads of debris on the canal path this morning, lucky my speed was right down in the face of the wind !
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 14 March, 2019, 08:16:57 am
Found the mojo...deity it was lousy. I'm fat, unfit and lazy. I really need to sort my head out to sort the first two out, the last is just a character defect.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 15 March, 2019, 05:31:19 pm
I'm getting really tired of this wind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 20 March, 2019, 01:48:00 pm
First cycle commute at the new job.
Features:
Nagging headwind
Close passes
Steep hill
Skipping gears
Off road shenanigans
A monster pothole on said off road track
Lets call it a wheel eater
Slo-mo collapse into the mud
Wet feet
Muddy longs
Bruised hip
No audience=pride intact :thumbsup:
Crappy footpath
Partially completed closed roads
No clean socks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 20 March, 2019, 05:23:17 pm
Took the track bike.  Nervy, twitchy, rear wheel has a tendency to skip over bumps.  But it's silent, unexpectedly supple, and it absolutely flies on the flat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 20 March, 2019, 07:41:47 pm
A driving colleague, later at coffee, said that he knew it was me on the bike out on the road earlier, because he saw the 'just in case' duct tape I have wound around the top of my water bottle...    :o   ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 20 March, 2019, 08:56:17 pm
Shat on by a pigeon as I went under a bridge. It got the side of my helmet and face  :sick:
I thought I'd wiped it off but when I met my wife at the docs on the way home she wasnt too happy at the sight of me with crap down my helmet, on my hands and a bit still on my face.

Also, I pass this
https://www.redbull.com/gb-en/events/red-bull-neptune-steps-uk
Not sure I'd want to swim in it. Might try to persuade my son to come along on Saturday and watch though
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 21 March, 2019, 07:47:45 am
Dragged the best bike out, there was mojo, enthusiasm even, enough to get involved in a bit of SCR, I'd even go so far as to say I enjoyed that, a step in the right direction  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 21 March, 2019, 08:05:32 am
Two noteworthy things today:

1 First morning commute in shorts this year
b I saw a man on a unicycle in Campton  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 25 March, 2019, 09:37:51 pm
Bloke carrying a cross. This was a full-size cross, the upright being 11’ or 12’ long. The pieces looked to be about 4” square. There was a small wheel, 10” or maybe 12”, fixed to the end of the upright, presumably to make the process less of a drag.

He was dressed in casual clothes and a high-viz jacket.

He was on the shared use path as it approaches the A38 at Little Eaton.

I didn’t see any Roman soldiers. He could have just dropped it and done a runner.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 26 March, 2019, 08:36:56 am
I trust you started singing "Always Look On The Bright Side Of Life" as you passed him?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 26 March, 2019, 10:06:04 am
There is a bloke who sometimes walks up and down the hill here carrying a cross and handing out JW leaflets. His cross doesn't have a wheel but it's only about 6' tall. I've never seen any Roman soldiers with him, but I have run into some on the Bristol-Bath cycle path; they didn't cause any trouble do anything for us, they'd been taken prisoner by some Celts.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 26 March, 2019, 12:14:28 pm
The Romans were last seen in Silly Oak, decimating recycling bins and arguing over minicabs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 26 March, 2019, 01:19:10 pm
Right ankle got tapped by a driver's bumper bar when I pulled away from a traffic light this morning. The dozy driver apologised for not knowing how wide her car was. No doubt she meant to leave at least 100mm clearance... That was followed by a close pass from a different driver about 30 seconds later.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 26 March, 2019, 08:16:10 pm
Quote from: Mr Larrington on 26 March, 2019, 08:36:56 am
I trust you started singing "Always Look On The Bright Side Of Life" as you passed him?
Damn and Blast!

And that was probably the only chance I’m ever going to get to do that!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 26 March, 2019, 09:44:56 pm
Quote from: Paul on 26 March, 2019, 08:16:10 pm
Quote from: Mr Larrington on 26 March, 2019, 08:36:56 am
I trust you started singing "Always Look On The Bright Side Of Life" as you passed him?
Damn and Blast!

And that was probably the only chance I’m ever going to get to do that!

On the plus side, the rest of us are now prepared.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: benborp on 27 March, 2019, 08:57:00 am
Quote from: Kim on 26 March, 2019, 09:44:56 pm
Quote from: Paul on 26 March, 2019, 08:16:10 pm
Quote from: Mr Larrington on 26 March, 2019, 08:36:56 am
I trust you started singing "Always Look On The Bright Side Of Life" as you passed him?
Damn and Blast!

And that was probably the only chance I’m ever going to get to do that!

On the plus side, the rest of us are now prepared.

...whistles..
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 27 March, 2019, 10:12:28 am
And a van squeezing past me into oncoming traffic while going under a narrow bridge. Whacked the side of the car a couple of times as he overtook and had a shouting match at the traffic jam a few hundred metres up the road before I rode away. Perhaps I'll take a longer route to work for a few days. This shit is getting a little wearing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: telstarbox on 27 March, 2019, 10:58:37 am
I've definitely been within kicking distance of close-passing vehicles, but I've never tried to do so in case of an embarrassing unbalance into the ditch...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 27 March, 2019, 11:37:01 am
I used to race on Aussie velodromes, so I'm quite comfortable with a bit of push and shove without coming off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 27 March, 2019, 09:21:40 pm
Cycled all the way home. I normally get the train for the last couple of miles, but the board at the station when I arrived was

Cancelled
Cancelled
Cancelled
Cancelled
Cancelled
Cancelled
Cancelled
Cancelled

Apparently an earlier 'operational incident'* and a signal failure at Forest Hill. Pootled around the back way to avoid the Road of Death. I think they put some new hills in.

Oh, and cycle-lady briefly ahead of me at Clapham, that retina-searing white light goes on the front of your bicycle, not the rear.

*cryptically defined as '[t]he term 'operational incident' encompasses various incidents which can occur on our Network. We try to avoid these occurring as much as possible, but on the rare occasions they do occur we need to make sure we have the safety of our passengers as our number one priority.' Well it's nice they try to avoid them as much as possible. I'm the same with angry elephants.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 28 March, 2019, 08:28:47 am
Down the NCN which was pleasant, nice to see some of Mr Boardman's Bee Network making some progress
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: EllysH on 28 March, 2019, 09:27:51 am


Quote from: ian on 27 March, 2019, 09:21:40 pm
Cycled all the way home. I normally get the train for the last couple of miles, but the board at the station when I arrived was

Cancelled
Cancelled
Cancelled
Cancelled
Cancelled
Cancelled
Cancelled
Cancelled

Apparently an earlier 'operational incident'* and a signal failure at Forest Hill. Pootled around the back way to avoid the Road of Death. I think they put some new hills in.

[/size]

I cycle around Forest Hill area for fun, which is the "road of death"?

Sounds like something I want to avoid.

Sent from my PLK-L01 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 28 March, 2019, 11:18:04 am
Not Forest Hill, that was just the train problem that meant there was nothing on the board at Purley. I have to trundle all the way to the North Downs (which are only north if you live south of them) – the Road of Death is the A22 from Purley – narrow and the peccadillo of large lorries trying to find a layby before their driver's working hours run out and car drivers who think speed limits are advisory. As a boon the road surface, especially to the sides of the road, was imported wholesale from the far-side of the moon. There is a back 'cycle' route (which I took), though in places it's a traffic-clogged rat-run and starts with a fairly gruelling hill and is generally aerobic as it wends its way along the valley side by Kenley and Whyteleafe. Hence I usually hop on a train for the final league.

There's a mostly unlit private estate near the end, I confess it was pretty cool scooting along by bike light alone. An interesting contrast from the vehicular bump-and-grind of the A23.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 28 March, 2019, 07:30:32 pm
My first frothing at the mouth loon for a long time. The vast and overwhelming majority of drivers on the London CS7 are unbelievably considerate and aware of cyclists. Not this tosser. Way too close, and unnecessarily so. I tapped (quite literally) the side of his van to let him know he was too close. Cue full-on bonkersville. Tried to crush me in to the pavement twice, swearing like he'd just discovered the words 'fucking' and 'cunt'. Quite risible in hindsight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 28 March, 2019, 09:43:49 pm
Quote from: hatler on 28 March, 2019, 07:30:32 pm
My first frothing at the mouth loon for a long time. The vast and overwhelming majority of drivers on the London CS7 are unbelievably considerate and aware of cyclists. Not this tosser. Way too close, and unnecessarily so. I tapped (quite literally) the side of his van to let him know he was too close. Cue full-on bonkersville. Tried to crush me in to the pavement twice, swearing like he'd just discovered the words 'fucking' and 'cunt'. Quite risible in hindsight.
Delightful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 28 March, 2019, 09:53:57 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 28 March, 2019, 09:43:49 pm
Quote from: hatler on 28 March, 2019, 07:30:32 pm
My first frothing at the mouth loon for a long time. The vast and overwhelming majority of drivers on the London CS7 are unbelievably considerate and aware of cyclists. Not this tosser. Way too close, and unnecessarily so. I tapped (quite literally) the side of his van to let him know he was too close. Cue full-on bonkersville. Tried to crush me in to the pavement twice, swearing like he'd just discovered the words 'fucking' and 'cunt'. Quite risible in hindsight.
Delightful.
And all the more remarkable for the extreme scarcity of such events. Quite a change from ten years ago. But yes, he was a charmer.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 28 March, 2019, 11:08:31 pm
A great close view of a heron which was nervously watching me as I went passed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 29 March, 2019, 10:15:58 am
Presumably not a company-branded van as it's so nice to remind them what a great advert for their business it is.

The worse thing about CS7 is the other cyclists. Even the majority of vehicles on the non-CS A23 are mostly OK, it's just the occasional speeders (worst when a section of bus lane is no longer restricted, some of them like to zoom up the inside of traffic) and dope-fiends. But it's horribly polluted with exhaust fumes, which is why I take the back roads. Takes another fifteen minutes in toto, but my lungs thank me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 29 March, 2019, 11:46:36 am
I've extended my ~13.5 mile commute to ~15 miles, to include traffic-lite / traffic-free bits of tarmac.
I feel safer and healthier for it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 29 March, 2019, 12:50:17 pm
It's shocking how bad pollution is along a road like that. It's the sort of thing like smoking on public transport that in a decade people will think 'what the hell, people thought that was OK?' about.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 29 March, 2019, 01:17:36 pm
the pedestrian crossing the road this am in full shouty F-OFF mode. F-Off was used a number of times as was DROP DEAD. All I thought was just turn the phone off - the conversation clearly isn't going to be resolved in a polite manner for a while.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 29 March, 2019, 07:55:35 pm
Quote from: ian on 29 March, 2019, 10:15:58 am
Presumably not a company-branded van as it's so nice to remind them what a great advert for their business it is.
Sadly not.

Quote
The worse thing about CS7 is the other cyclists.
Absolutely. Not all of them obviously, but enough to make it unpleasant at times.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 03 April, 2019, 02:00:45 pm
I was almost a bonnet ornament last night. The car coming towards me pulled into my lane to overtake a parked car. I swerved just enough to avoid contact. The low, setting sun was in her face.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: tonycollinet on 04 April, 2019, 07:11:41 am
Quote from: Kim on 26 March, 2019, 09:44:56 pm
Quote from: Paul on 26 March, 2019, 08:16:10 pm
Quote from: Mr Larrington on 26 March, 2019, 08:36:56 am
I trust you started singing "Always Look On The Bright Side Of Life" as you passed him?
Damn and Blast!

And that was probably the only chance I’m ever going to get to do that!

On the plus side, the rest of us are now prepared.

I certainly am  ;D (best LOL of the week so far - thanks Paul/Kim)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 09 April, 2019, 11:21:34 pm
Sales of cheap booze must go up sharply during school holidays.  I pass a few groups of kids out in the sunshine getting refreshed, and yesterday some kid lying face down on the grass with nobody near him. (he could have been dead !) As I stopped, some of his mates emerged from bushes to tell me he was just having a sleep and he was fine. I was glad to get going and not get involved, but as I left one of the girls shouted "skinny malinky" at me - that was all - no swearing !  ;D
Also spotted , close up views of roe deer and a fox in the last couple of mornings.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 10 April, 2019, 09:37:54 am
I'd like to thank Network Rail for this morning's wake up call, given the van driver who decided to slide through a bunch of cyclists to take a side road off Southwark Street with nary an indication or any sign that he'd noticed any cyclists. A little less tread on my tyre now.

Still, it's not like Network Rail would be the sort of organization that you'd think would have safety part of their culture.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 16 April, 2019, 12:08:21 pm
Flatted on the way home and was in an area with a high Jewish population. i could have sold tickets to me changing the tube with kids (boys) asking me about tools/tubes/patches/pumps. The regular locals would have been asking the £value of everything and thinking how to steal something so made a nice change to have some interest shown
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 16 April, 2019, 03:51:01 pm
The Harry Quinn track bike has its new wheels, with 1st-gen Campag Record track hubs, Exal silver rims, very thin spokes, super-light Vittoria 22mm folding tyres and latex tubes.  I have no idea what causes it but it makes the most amazing "swishing" noise of any bike I've ever ridden.  Probably the tyres.  It's a great commuting bike for dry weather and the colossal toe overlap isn't an issue on the normal route.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 17 April, 2019, 08:33:58 am
Well I had the choice of either riding or playing taxi driver to an injured Miss S tonight, so I let Mrs S have the pleasure of the latter and rode in, that wind is stronger than it looks and I've got numb toes in my summer shoes, might just be the windchill.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 21 April, 2019, 06:33:00 am
Odd experience. REALLY warm on the ride home yesterday, finger-hurting cold on the ride in this morning (mitts instead of gloves). Mind you, the ride home is at 1730 hrs, the ride in at 0530, passing the 'Riverside Lake' in Horley, where the temperature always takes a nose dive.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 23 April, 2019, 08:45:51 am
Schools are back. Need I say more?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Edd on 23 April, 2019, 09:15:22 am
Quote from: Riggers on 23 April, 2019, 08:45:51 am
Schools are back. Need I say more?

Not in Wales ;D easy ride in, could take the most direct route to work without squeezing past long double queues of cars. Although, given the nice weather, I may take the circuitous route back home later and poodle along by the river
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 23 April, 2019, 01:38:36 pm
You lucky chap. This morning felt like mothers-driving-their-kids-to-school were perhaps, on an anti-anti-climate change protest, by doubling up the amount of cars that regularly jam up the roads. Perhaps they think none of this applies to them?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 23 April, 2019, 05:24:25 pm
Quote from: Riggers on 23 April, 2019, 01:38:36 pm
You lucky chap. This morning felt like mothers-driving-their-kids-to-school were perhaps, on an anti-anti-climate change protest, by doubling up the amount of cars that regularly jam up the roads. Perhaps they think none of this applies to them?

That's literally what the taxi drivers are doing in Middle Earth:  https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-birmingham-48021881
https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/live-updates-birmingham-taxi-drivers-16165780

I'm not sure how effective a strategy it's likely to be, as key Birmingham junctions blocked by slow-moving taxis is almost indistinguishable from normal rush-hour traffic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: markcjagar on 23 April, 2019, 09:05:49 pm
A scooter rider overtook me whilst I was riding up Penistone Road at a steady 30km/h, once in front she popped on her left indicator. I braked to avoid the obvious hazard ahead, she awkwardly hovered as if to let me go.

I ended up coming to a full stop on a 40mph dual carriageway because someone who is propelled an engine is able to read the road as well as a 2 y/o can read Tolkien
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 23 April, 2019, 09:32:57 pm
Quote from: Kim on 23 April, 2019, 05:24:25 pm
Quote from: Riggers on 23 April, 2019, 01:38:36 pm
You lucky chap. This morning felt like mothers-driving-their-kids-to-school were perhaps, on an anti-anti-climate change protest, by doubling up the amount of cars that regularly jam up the roads. Perhaps they think none of this applies to them?

That's literally what the taxi drivers are doing in Middle Earth:  https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-birmingham-48021881
https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/live-updates-birmingham-taxi-drivers-16165780

I'm not sure how effective a strategy it's likely to be, as key Birmingham junctions blocked by slow-moving taxis is almost indistinguishable from normal rush-hour traffic.

It always makes me laugh when they do it in London, also because slow-moving taxis (often empty of passengers) aren't an inconsiderable cause of congestion. And the blessing of being a cyclist is that you can scoot past them, so they're mostly just holding themselves and other vehicles up.

Still, I admire their optimism that none of this will affect their families.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 26 April, 2019, 08:24:12 am
Pootling out of the estate thinking this bike feels weird, something up with the steering, checked the headset at the first junction, all's well, took me another 3 miles to remember I put a longer stem on it last week then took another bike  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 26 April, 2019, 12:54:02 pm
At the station bike shed this morning was a man in his pants.
It isn't the first time I've found a cyclist changing before getting the train, but they usually make some effort to be discreet - it's got glass walls after all.

Sent from my LG-H850 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: EllysH on 26 April, 2019, 02:26:33 pm
A deliberately slow, relaxed ride in this morning.

Close pass by a motorcyclist, felt the bag strap of their pillion passenger whip my back. Not hurt, but goodness did my heart go!

Sent from my COL-L29 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 30 April, 2019, 08:21:03 pm
Ride home this morning after nights, and two of the greylag pairs have now got goslings. Deffo Spring!

Put a camera in my bag for tomorrow morning.

Rather more pleasant as a commute, though three times the distance, than my old one.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 02 May, 2019, 08:31:43 am
Last night had a brommie rider sitting on my wheel though Stretford, when the road opened up he came past giving it the full beans to be hit by the wind, at the temporary lights a few hundred yards later he asked if I'd lead again. 

Laundry based clothing decisions this morning, ultra thin socks and thermal 3/4's, body failed to find way to transfer heat from under-carriage to toes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 02 May, 2019, 09:25:26 am
Enjoying my regular evening's contemplation of the school of both cycling and driving that insists you must accelerate as fast as possible from any stop and then have to slow down immediately at the next obstacle. Rinse and repeat. Unless they're full-on lycra boys, they're usually there at the next lights. Same with cars, of course. They have to floor it and then slam on the brakes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peat on 02 May, 2019, 01:43:35 pm
binary people.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 02 May, 2019, 03:35:46 pm
It's weird, it's the majority of people. It's almost savant-like, they just have to go for it, even though it's evident they're (often almost immediately) going to have to slow down again. I used to think it was just car drivers, but it's the same imperative, it seems, for anything that moves slower than walking pace.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 07 May, 2019, 09:52:18 am
Yesterday I returned to commuting.  Huzzah!

Having been off a few months it's no surprise I'm a bit weak, it I was generally OK.  I was worried about the Ramadan Rush on the return leg, but it was pretty quiet.  Then remembered it was a bank holiday, so most would already have been home to break the fast.  Tonight, OTOH, will likely be back to the usual homicidal standards of driving.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 08 May, 2019, 03:15:06 pm
Car in front of me had the rear windscreen wipers attached the wrong way round (180 deg out) so that instead of wiping the rear windscreen it wiped their rear numberplate.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 08 May, 2019, 11:35:14 pm
My commute takes me approx an hour and have found that my shoulder bag is starting to hurt my back.  I've ordered a carradice barley ! It will look pretty odd on my carbon hybrid, but my back will welcome it for sure.
Wet today, both directions with added strong headwind on the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 08 May, 2019, 11:38:25 pm
Quote from: fd3 on 08 May, 2019, 03:15:06 pm
Car in front of me had the rear windscreen wipers attached the wrong way round (180 deg out) so that instead of wiping the rear windscreen it wiped their rear numberplate.

I've seen that a couple of times recently, though not actually in operation.  Assumed it was a result of vandalism (the BloodyStudents delight in breaking windscreen wipers and kung-fu-kicking door mirrors on their noisy drunken amble up the hill), but maybe there's something subtle about fettling the things that makes it easy to cock up?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 09 May, 2019, 07:07:24 pm
I can confirm the brakes on my tourer are still pretty effective. I would have preferred the woman in the black Berlingo that pulled out on me while I was doing 30mph into Beckermet not to have relied on that, however!

Also, I can't wait for spring to return. I'm back in my February commuting gear.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mustgettaller on 10 May, 2019, 10:58:13 pm
Second day of my new 18 mile each way commute (Emsworth to Botley) today. Definitely need to take more to eat in the afternoon - felt decidedly bonked on the Portsdown Hill climb on the way home.  :-\

But views from the top were magnificent!  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TJG on 16 May, 2019, 01:41:36 pm
Just been advised by a colleague that "You should have been wearing high viz yesterday because I nearly didn't see you as I pulled out of the carpark....I just want you to be safe."

He had gone before I composed my self enough to think that what I should have replied with was "I just want you to look properly before you drive across the footpath and cycle lane." Or maybe to ask if he also advised the two members of staff who were walking to wear high viz?

This evening I have the joys of a newly pebbledashed section of my commute to contend with.  It did not look too bad this morning where they had the heavy roller on it a few minutes after dressing it.  I am sure that by this evening it will have been torn up again by the cars driving too fast!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 16 May, 2019, 02:58:33 pm
Quote from: TJG on 16 May, 2019, 01:41:36 pm
This evening I have the joys of a newly pebbledashed section of my commute to contend with.  It did not look too bad this morning where they had the heavy roller on it a few minutes after dressing it.  I am sure that by this evening it will have been torn up again by the cars driving too fast!

This reminds me, a surface dressing innovation has appeared on one of my regular lanes:  The chips seem to be finer than usual, and for whatever reason there aren't vast swathes of loose material to contend with.  Which is at least theoretically an improvement, except that they've not done anything about the uneven surface they've applied it to.  So the road's just as hazardously bumpy as before, but a uniform colour/texture to make the holes that much more tricky to spot (especially in bright sunlight filtering through trees).   :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 16 May, 2019, 03:04:52 pm
Meant to post this yesterday:

Eeewwww, the cycle lanes were full of ... cyclists!  :o
It's been a few years since I've done the morning rush-hour commute.  Dear Lord, there were more than a few people out there.  Great to see so many people commuting by bike, but that also means an increased number of numpties.  It will take some time, but I'll get used to it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 16 May, 2019, 03:26:19 pm
Got outrageously cut up by a sportive wannabee yesterday prompting a wholly involuntary cry of 'Fucking hell" from me.

He wasn't all that quick up the hills (he slowed down, I maintained pace) so at the next set of lights I put it to him that maybe he was a little too close. This elicited a mumbled "sorry" followed by a "Where's your helmet ?"

Fucker.

He then deliberately close passed me on the next straight, but again, slowed up on the next hill.
All I could be arsed with was "Shit cycling is always shit cycling" as I passed him.   Hardly the most inspired response. He blew through the next red light.

And, in other news, my commute is generally a delightful affair.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 21 May, 2019, 01:15:02 pm
WVM doesn't like a bike filtering through queued road work traffic, to end up in front of said van, then van following bike through roadworks, even though bike keeps pace with the car in front.   ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 21 May, 2019, 07:10:44 pm
Well mate, that's obvious, innit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 23 May, 2019, 03:31:01 pm
 ;) O:-)

of course I wouldn't do it deliberately...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 23 May, 2019, 04:18:14 pm
Quote from: TJG on 16 May, 2019, 01:41:36 pm
Just been advised by a colleague that "You should have been wearing high viz yesterday because I nearly didn't see you as I pulled out of the carpark....I just want you to be safe."
There's a yehuda moon for that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 23 May, 2019, 04:54:13 pm
Had the slow 'I'm not going to wait for you, but will slow right down while I encroach on your space' pinch point pass today...

Couple of days ago, on the way home, I had a continental HGV, bide it's time to overtake, but when it finally did - the oncoming vehicle had to stop completely, to avoid a head on!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 23 May, 2019, 06:53:20 pm
Nearly got sideswiped by a Smart car. There's something about Smart cars that ensures they're driven by people who are definitively not very smart. I'll charitably say she must have had an itchy ear and it wasn't the fact she was deep in a phone conversation that was causing her to drift all over the road. I don't think she even noted my existence as she wavered off into the distance.

Yesterday was one of those evenings. Endless close passes. Speeding drivers everywhere. Hefty whiffs of marijuana from cars with a single occupant. General unabated idiocy. That will, of course, remind me not to meander through South Norwood and the northern regions of the London Borough of Croydon. I think the last time the police pulled over a driver there was in 1992 and then only because the police officer was under the misapprehension he was in Bromley. It's basically utterly lawless. Every road is a rat-run or drag strip. And the people there seem to be stuck a perpetual audition for next Mad Max movie.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 23 May, 2019, 07:15:25 pm
Quote from: ian on 23 May, 2019, 06:53:20 pm
Nearly got sideswiped by a Smart car. There's something about Smart cars that ensures they're driven by people who are definitively not very smart. I'll charitably say she must have had an itchy ear and it wasn't the fact she was deep in a phone conversation that was causing her to drift all over the road. I don't think she even noted my existence as she wavered off into the distance.

Yesterday was one of those evenings. Endless close passes. Speeding drivers everywhere. Hefty whiffs of marijuana from cars with a single occupant. General unabated idiocy. That will, of course, remind me not to meander through South Norwood and the northern regions of the London Borough of Croydon. I think the last time the police pulled over a driver there was in 1992 and then only because the police officer was under the misapprehension he was in Bromley. It's basically utterly lawless. Every road is a rat-run or drag strip. And the people there seem to be stuck a perpetual audition for next Mad Max movie.

Ah!
My bold.
Wickham Road, Brockley (where Kate Bush used to live) and Chatsworth Road, Clapton (an example of Britain's last "traditional" high street).
Two roads on my commute where the waft of skunk from single occupancy cars is almost guaranteed.
Being on a bike, doesn't that just make you feel fantastic?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 23 May, 2019, 07:53:22 pm
It certainly makes a change from the diesel fumes. Drug driving doesn't really seem to be on the radar in the same way drink driving was (though I'm not sure the police are especially bothered by that now, other than the brief bit of press before Christmas). Since I started back at the mothership and commute home a couple of days of week, I've seen precisely one traffic stop, in South Croydon for a car that was either dramatically overloaded or had no suspension, and I suspect both. The only place I can be reliable assuring of seeing police presense is the inevitable Wild West Croydon fracas, where one drugged up or pissed skinny bloke kicking off will require four police vans, a dozen squad cars, and a helicopter. I think they'd send a battleship if they had one.

The other disturbing thing was the number of speeding cars – and I don't mean the almost standard 40 in a 30 20 zone, I mean serious. Mostly youngish blokes in the usual 'performance' cars. Two zoomed past me on Landsdowne Road in Croydon at faster than motorway speeds. They were on the other side of road, so it wasn't a close pass, but needless to say when you hear a car coming up behind at those sorts of speeds you pretty much bail straight onto the pavement and find religion.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 23 May, 2019, 08:07:27 pm
Quote from: ian on 23 May, 2019, 06:53:20 pm
Nearly got sideswiped by a Smart car. There's something about Smart cars that ensures they're driven by people who are definitively not very smart.

Car that's too small for anything you'd reasonably want to use a car for means it inherently appeals to the sort of people who use a car as a coat and/or bicycle.

I'm still impressed-but-not-surprised that Birmingham's short lived Smart-based Boris-car scheme failed.  They blamed a "strong culture of private motoring" for lack of demand.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 23 May, 2019, 08:25:07 pm
The most annoying thing was that the road was empty, she was just so engrossed in her phone call that really I didn't exist. There's still a large proportion of drivers that simply still haven't got the message. Probably best we don't text it to them.

Oh, the other thing that was really annoying me: those little pedestrian islands that councils love popping into the middle of the road because they can't be arsed with proper crossings (or whatever sundry attempt they make at justification). I always take primary if they're narrow because they encourage the most egregious close passing. Which means a good proportion of drivers just accelerate as hard as they can the moment they think they've got a shot at getting by, buzzing your back wheel in the process.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 23 May, 2019, 08:31:31 pm
Quote from: ian on 23 May, 2019, 08:25:07 pm
Oh, the other thing that was really annoying me: those little pedestrian islands that councils love popping into the middle of the road because they can't be arsed with proper crossings (or whatever sundry attempt they make at justification).

You know what's worse than pedestrian refuges?  (Which have a bollard each side, a gap in the middle level with the road surface, and dropped kerbs on either side of the road so pedestrians can access them.)

Traffic-enraging pinch-points that aren't even pedestrian refuges.  Like these bastards that were installed a couple of years ago opposite the Mega-Global BRITISH Chocolate Corporation of Bournville, Middle Earth:  https://goo.gl/maps/bufXcBfYbYEvUcz16  (A true pedestrian refuge is visible in the distance.)

You can imagine how much fun cycling up that hill became after they appeared.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 23 May, 2019, 11:02:50 pm
I worked quite late tonight and had to sprint hard to get to the polling station in time. Virtually rode the bike through the doorway but made it by two minutes with sweat dripping off my nose. A watermark on the paper is a good thing, right?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peat on 24 May, 2019, 10:15:36 am
Quote from: Kim on 23 May, 2019, 08:31:31 pm

You know what's worse than pedestrian refuges?  :  https://goo.gl/maps/bufXcBfYbYEvUcz16 

What is it even for? Someone, somewhere wrote a document justifying it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: EllysH on 24 May, 2019, 10:17:35 am
Quote from: Peat on 24 May, 2019, 10:15:36 am
Quote from: Kim on 23 May, 2019, 08:31:31 pm

You know what's worse than pedestrian refuges?  :  https://goo.gl/maps/bufXcBfYbYEvUcz16 

What is it even for? Someone, somewhere wrote a document justifying it.
Having an obsticle in the middle of road may force a motorist to concentrate and slow down?

Yuegh. Did I just attempt to justify the stupid thing?

Sent from my COL-L29 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peat on 24 May, 2019, 10:18:42 am
Quote from: ian on 23 May, 2019, 08:25:07 pm
There's still a large proportion of drivers that simply still haven't got the message. Probably best we don't text it to them.

I think everyone knows by now, knows it's dangerous, but also knows the chance of getting punished is virtually nil.

"But...but If I just check quickly, what harm can it do? Ooh, I got some likes on my last post! *gasp* And someone commented! My life is validated! What does it say? Hmm, is he being sarcastic, I can't tell *BANG* What was that? Why is that cyclist swearing at me? Oh my god, he's not wearing a helmet! What an idiot!"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 24 May, 2019, 12:13:26 pm
Quote from: EllysH on 24 May, 2019, 10:17:35 am
Quote from: Peat on 24 May, 2019, 10:15:36 am
Quote from: Kim on 23 May, 2019, 08:31:31 pm

You know what's worse than pedestrian refuges?  :  https://goo.gl/maps/bufXcBfYbYEvUcz16 

What is it even for? Someone, somewhere wrote a document justifying it.
Having an obsticle in the middle of road may force a motorist to concentrate and slow down?

Yuegh. Did I just attempt to justify the stupid thing?

I believe the official verdict is to calm traffic by preventing overtaking.  What it actually does - as any cyclist familiar with British roads knows - is enrage traffic by preventing overtaking *here*, so they either rush to get the overtaking done before they get to the next one, bullying vulnerable road users as necessary to complete the manoeuvre, or drive around the obstacle at speed on the wrong side of the road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 24 May, 2019, 05:13:01 pm
Quote from: Kim on 24 May, 2019, 12:13:26 pm
Quote from: EllysH on 24 May, 2019, 10:17:35 am
Quote from: Peat on 24 May, 2019, 10:15:36 am
Quote from: Kim on 23 May, 2019, 08:31:31 pm

You know what's worse than pedestrian refuges?  :  https://goo.gl/maps/bufXcBfYbYEvUcz16 

What is it even for? Someone, somewhere wrote a document justifying it.
Having an obsticle in the middle of road may force a motorist to concentrate and slow down?

Yuegh. Did I just attempt to justify the stupid thing?

I believe the official verdict is to calm traffic by preventing overtaking.  What it actually does - as any cyclist familiar with British roads knows - is enrage traffic by preventing overtaking *here*, so they either rush to get the overtaking done before they get to the next one, bullying vulnerable road users as necessary to complete the manoeuvre, or drive around the obstacle at speed on the wrong side of the road.
Relevantly, I've just been removing about centre-line removal and its possible effects on reducing traffic speeds and increasing overtaking distances. There's a quote from an unnamed local highway authority about that hatching:
Quote
“Our thinking on carriageway lining has changed a little bit because, going back quite a few
years, what we’ve tended to do quite a lot of, was putting in central carriageway hatching
because our thinking was it would make it safer if you separate the traffic, so you have this
hatched area in the middle. But, as time has gone on, we tend to have moved away from that
and have gone with this approach [CLR] of it’s better to squeeze traffic together to be more
effective.”
http://www.roadsafetyknowledgecentre.org.uk/misc/userDownloadProtected.php?context=attachedFile&zone=knowledgeItem&file=246&filenameOverride=Briefing+Note+0519+UWE+FINAL.pdf
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 24 May, 2019, 05:25:16 pm
There's a broad bend on my route home where the middle of the road is hatched lines (but less than the width of the average car) – https://goo.gl/maps/PRe4Copi5FV1JJmU8 – it pretty much screams overtake to the tiny mind of a driver even though there's quite obviously no room. Oh, and this bit is interspersed with those traffic islands. The signs/bollards on those islands have a short half-life. Few survive a weekend.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peat on 24 May, 2019, 09:31:13 pm
Someone needs to start parking on the other side of that road. There's nothing prevent it. Cause a real snarl up!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 25 May, 2019, 10:13:45 am
My grate frend Uncle Marvo, the notorious Aqua-Pikey, once got taken to court for overtaking a dawdling police car on a hatched line thingies while aboard The Mighty KAWASAKI.  He got off on the grounds that he hadn't broken the law.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 30 May, 2019, 08:29:18 am
Saw an MTB tyre around a lamppost.  A proper one 30 feet high, not some little ornamental thing.  That must have taken a lot of practice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 30 May, 2019, 11:58:20 am
Salut to the usual tinted window, low slung Audi-driving twat who arranged for the CBT (Croydon Brake Test) on the Lombard Circus of Death yesterday. Brakes work, thanks. Unlike his indicators or brain (the usual dart around the inside and cut across to take an exit). I should know better than to take that route, it's called the Circus of Death for a reason. He did pause to shout some random abuse because, oh just because.

After a couple of months of fairly innocuous commutes unenlivened with actual attempts to kill me, the last two have been awful examples of why no one really cycles in this country. Sigh.

In other news, fellow cyclists, please do a bit of PR for the team and stop fucking cycling through the green phase of a pedestrian crossing. Because you know, every single person who sees you doing that will think you're a cunt and then apply that label to all cyclists.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 30 May, 2019, 12:01:56 pm
I've half considered trying to persuade fellow red light stoppers to loudly chorus 'TWAT' at anyone who doesn't stop, but I fear I might be labelled as eccentric.

(And, being one of the few unhelmeted riders on my route I perceive that I'm a) already recognised and b) considered an outlier.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bludger on 30 May, 2019, 12:04:36 pm
I skip lights all the time. I'm not hurting anyone - in fact it's safer as I'm less likely to be flattened by some van driver on his phone clocking the lights changing and accelerating blindly. My life is more valuable than the precious feelings of a motorist upset that I'm not obeying the signals that were only put up to stop them killing each other in the first place. Motorists hate you anyway, thinking you're going to get in their good books by observing lights when no one is crossing is fanciful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 30 May, 2019, 12:52:19 pm
Sorry, but that's a pretty poor excuse. Motorists, after all, use their own exceptionalism to justify the same light jumping, ignorance of speed limits, and need to take that important phone call.

But anyway, my big gripe is pedestrian crossings (and with people crossing). I see it every day and you see from the looks on people's faces, it doesn't do us cyclists any favours. And as a pedestrian, I fucking hate it when I have to make way for a cyclist when crossing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 30 May, 2019, 01:17:38 pm
Quote from: ian on 30 May, 2019, 12:52:19 pm
But anyway, my big gripe is pedestrian crossings (and with people crossing). I see it every day and you see from the looks on people's faces, it doesn't do us cyclists any favours. And as a pedestrian, I fucking hate it when I have to make way for a cyclist when crossing.

I don't really buy the PR angle - cyclists are an outgroup and will continue to be hated until such a time as cycling is normal and ordinary, and some new transportational outgroup (scooterists, hoverboardists, whatever) will take our place.

But being a dick at pedestrian crossings is both dickish and dangerous.  Sure, you're statistically unlikely to kill anyone, but you might make a disabled person think twice about leaving the house in future.

(I accept that sometimes you're descending at speeds in excess of R17 with a WVM up your arse, and rolling through a yellow light or not stopping for that pedestrian approaching the zebra crossing might be prudent.  But that's the edge case.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bludger on 30 May, 2019, 03:06:38 pm
Quote from: ian on 30 May, 2019, 12:52:19 pm
Sorry, but that's a pretty poor excuse. Motorists, after all, use their own exceptionalism to justify the same light jumping, ignorance of speed limits, and need to take that important phone call.

Sure, and they kill thousands and thousands of people a year doing it. How many people do cyclists kill or maim? There's no comparison.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 30 May, 2019, 03:52:14 pm
While that is true, but it doesn't excuse people on bikes ignoring laws or, tbh (and more importantly), acting like dicks. I'm not responsible for their behaviour, but it's nature of being an outgroup that what they do will also be stuck to me. I once got a lecture from a bloke about people on bikes jumping red lights while I was waiting at the bloody lights.

I'm a pragmatist, if I think I'm in danger I'm not to sit around at the lights and wait to be squooshed. But I'm also not going to routinely slalom through a crowd of crossing pedestrians because, hey, I'm not going to kill them and really my journey is so important that I can't wait a few seconds for the lights to change.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jakob W on 30 May, 2019, 04:50:39 pm
I don't think it's all that helpful to conflate illegality and dickishness; I'll jump red lights unrepentantly if I think it'll be safer (or if it's 3am and there's no traffic about), but won't blow through pedestrian crossings if there's people waiting to cross. And sure, there are arseholes on bikes and in cars, but the risks involved with someone being a dick on a bike are many orders of magnitude less.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 30 May, 2019, 05:22:38 pm
Got overtaken by a works van stinking of best Amsterdam skunk.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bludger on 30 May, 2019, 05:36:53 pm
It was only when I started cycling that I found out how many users of the devil's lettuce there driving their cars at the same time. It's frightening. Often it's at 8 in the morning and it's not even Christmas.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 30 May, 2019, 05:48:53 pm
Quote from: rogerzilla on 30 May, 2019, 05:22:38 pm
Got overtaken by a works van stinking of best Amsterdam skunk.
It's a regular occurrence on Chatsworth Road, Lower Clapton and Wickham Road, Brockley.
I guess it is the single occupancy vehicles which bother me the most.

EDIT: Who's works? Name and shame.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: EllysH on 30 May, 2019, 06:00:27 pm
Maybe I'm just a square but it is a crime to barrel through a red light.

So I don't do it, and I don't think any of you should be either.

Sent from my COL-L29 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 30 May, 2019, 06:08:27 pm
Quote from: EllysH on 30 May, 2019, 06:00:27 pm
Maybe I'm just a square but it is a crime to barrel through a red light.

So I don't do it, and I don't think any of you should be either.

Sent from my COL-L29 using Tapatalk
Umm... I think it is a civil offence, rather than a criminal one [/pedant]
Also/and I'm guessing that you don't cycle through some of the less salubrious/keep moving parts of London.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: EllysH on 30 May, 2019, 06:11:58 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 30 May, 2019, 06:08:27 pm
Quote from: EllysH on 30 May, 2019, 06:00:27 pm
Maybe I'm just a square but it is a crime to barrel through a red light.

So I don't do it, and I don't think any of you should be either.

Sent from my COL-L29 using Tapatalk
Umm... I think it is a civil offence, rather than a criminal one [/pedant]
Also/and I'm guessing that you don't cycle through some of the less salubrious/keep moving parts of London.
I do actually.

Not that it really matters, several commenters keep saying how their bike is less dangerous than a car and I don't think that matters either.

All the rules put in place on the road - and elsewhere, really - only work is everyone follows them. Otherwise the system quickly breaks down.

Sent from my COL-L29 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 30 May, 2019, 06:17:46 pm
Quote from: EllysH on 30 May, 2019, 06:11:58 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 30 May, 2019, 06:08:27 pm
Quote from: EllysH on 30 May, 2019, 06:00:27 pm
Maybe I'm just a square but it is a crime to barrel through a red light.

So I don't do it, and I don't think any of you should be either.

Sent from my COL-L29 using Tapatalk
Umm... I think it is a civil offence, rather than a criminal one [/pedant]
Also/and I'm guessing that you don't cycle through some of the less salubrious/keep moving parts of London.
I do actually.

Not that it really matters, several commenters keep saying how their bike is less dangerous than a car and I don't think that matters either.

All the rules put in place on the road - and elsewhere, really - only work is everyone follows them. Otherwise the system quickly breaks down.

Sent from my COL-L29 using Tapatalk
My bad with the guesswork.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 30 May, 2019, 06:20:00 pm
To be honest, while I accept the safety argument in principle – if there's someone revving hard behind me and I pretty much know it's an aggressive twunt in Audi or a lorry driver on the phone telling his mate about the epic hangover he has, yeah, I'm gone. But the majority of lights I see jumped aren't because of safety, it's impatience because the person on a bike can't be bothered waiting a minute or so. Which is same reason drivers do it, of course.

The smell of sweet Mary J is strong the Mad Max re-enactment zone that is Croydon. I suppose it takes the sting out of living there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bludger on 30 May, 2019, 06:32:59 pm
Further as a cycle courier word has gotten around about people finding us at stopped lights and mugging us, firstly of our smartphones (on the handlebars) and also of our cargo. Worse because Stuart require us to have £50 on us in cash to give to clients requesting a cash withdrawal there are accounts of knives being brandished at delivery cyclists demanding money. Being at a stopped light is an easy way of declaring yourself a target.

I don't carry the cash on me because I'm a loose cannon but that's not going to go down easily with someone wanting their smack fix in the next 30 minutes.

So far I've had moped drivers trying to mug me so I can account for it - tried to push me off the bike so they could set about me. Fortunately their first push didn't knock me over since I'm not a small chap and they bottled it and ran.

Reported it to the police, they didn't do shit. Our lives are worth nothing to the law so I don't see much point in slavishly following red lights when it just leaves me exposed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 30 May, 2019, 07:02:14 pm
It is, perhaps, worth remembering, that the traffic light as we today know it, was created by a police officer in Detroit, Michigan in the 1920s.
The light turned red, and the traffic stopped.
Magic. Witchcraft. Or something else.
These days, you're in Sainos putting your comestibles through the self-checkout till when you hear "Unexpected Item in the bagging area" and immediately you are flitting about with your shopping as if you were a crim. Like Ray Winstone in Scum.
It's the same with the robotic voice on the Ginger Line - causing you to break into a sweat in the event that you're possibly not carrying a valid ticket or an Oyster card. A threat results.
Are you familiar with Skynet?
We're not so far away from it.
And what's more, is that we are actively encouraging it.
It won't end well.


Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 30 May, 2019, 09:23:06 pm
The cyclist counter on the Embankment is still borked.  Even at 19:45 today it was showing a grand total of ONE cyclist passing it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 30 May, 2019, 09:38:16 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 30 May, 2019, 09:23:06 pm
The cyclist counter on the Embankment is still borked.  Even at 19:45 today it was showing a grand total of ONE cyclist passing it.
That's so unlike the one I pass on Lea Bridge Road (Eastbound).
On fine weather days like today, when I pass it at ~07:10 it is showing 90 to 120 cyclists as having passed it.
In winter it rarely scores over 40 at that time of day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 30 May, 2019, 10:06:26 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 30 May, 2019, 09:38:16 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 30 May, 2019, 09:23:06 pm
The cyclist counter on the Embankment is still borked.  Even at 19:45 today it was showing a grand total of ONE cyclist passing it.
That's so unlike the one I pass on Lea Bridge Road (Eastbound).
On fine weather days like today, when I pass it at ~07:10 it is showing 90 to 120 cyclists as having passed it.
In winter it rarely scores over 40 at that time of day.

Last year, on any given nice summer day, the Embankment counter would show 10,000+.  On a day like today, it should be showing between 6k and 8k.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 31 May, 2019, 10:05:01 am
Quote from: Andrij on 30 May, 2019, 10:06:26 pm
Quote from: Jurek on 30 May, 2019, 09:38:16 pm
Quote from: Andrij on 30 May, 2019, 09:23:06 pm
The cyclist counter on the Embankment is still borked.  Even at 19:45 today it was showing a grand total of ONE cyclist passing it.
That's so unlike the one I pass on Lea Bridge Road (Eastbound).
On fine weather days like today, when I pass it at ~07:10 it is showing 90 to 120 cyclists as having passed it.
In winter it rarely scores over 40 at that time of day.

Last year, on any given nice summer day, the Embankment counter would show 10,000+.  On a day like today, it should be showing between 6k and 8k.

Wow - thats loads !
I'm usually about ~22 of the day (morning commute) on the Clydebank counter. It shows around 13,000 for the year so far.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 04 June, 2019, 09:55:01 am
This week I am mostly wearing the cyclist's cloak of invisibility, apparently  :demon:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 04 June, 2019, 10:26:38 am
Managed to get about 100m from home before the first twunt of the day came up right behind me at speed and started revving aggressively. It's a narrow road, parking on both side, barely a car width. I counted the delay to this driver: he had to slow down for four entire seconds before I could let him 'safely' pass. He passed with the signature revving and a deliberate millimetre clearance, evidently shouting something non-complimentary in my direction. No idea what, that doesn't work when the window is up.

Of course, I then caught up with him at the end of the road, and then passed as he sat waiting for traffic to get around the roundabout which hasn't magically appeared overnight and is, in fact, there every morning. He still seemed to be shouting something, but again, that still doesn't work when the window is closed. Fat man in a fat car. Anyway, I didn't feel the need to engage, there's no point wasting the effort. He got up angry, will probably go to bed angry. That's his problem. But still, no one should have to put up with this.

Then watched a small armada of cars pull out of a housing development and followed them to the station. Probably five minutes walk. Maybe six.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 04 June, 2019, 10:40:13 am
I simply consider the likelihood of such people keeling over with a premature heart attack. That, I feel, helps restore the balance.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 04 June, 2019, 12:02:50 pm
Quote from: hatler on 04 June, 2019, 10:40:13 am
I simply consider the likelihood of such people keeling over with a premature heart attack. That, I feel, helps restore the balance.

As long as they're not driving at the time...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 04 June, 2019, 09:21:53 pm
Quote from: Kim on 23 May, 2019, 08:31:31 pm
Quote from: ian on 23 May, 2019, 08:25:07 pm
Oh, the other thing that was really annoying me: those little pedestrian islands that councils love popping into the middle of the road because they can't be arsed with proper crossings (or whatever sundry attempt they make at justification).

You know what's worse than pedestrian refuges?  (Which have a bollard each side, a gap in the middle level with the road surface, and dropped kerbs on either side of the road so pedestrians can access them.)

Traffic-enraging pinch-points that aren't even pedestrian refuges.  Like these bastards that were installed a couple of years ago opposite the Mega-Global BRITISH Chocolate Corporation of Bournville, Middle Earth:  https://goo.gl/maps/bufXcBfYbYEvUcz16  (A true pedestrian refuge is visible in the distance.)

You can imagine how much fun cycling up that hill became after they appeared.
Exactly what came to my mind!
I was proper middle class and wrote to my councilor about them, how on earth can I get my double pram across there?  .... glad I don't commute that road any more (the parallel road is nicer but slower).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 04 June, 2019, 09:24:50 pm
In the deluge this evening saw a number of my two-wheeled bredrin commuting home without lights. 
1). Dynamo win
2). Removing mudguards and lights for summer commuting is for sukas
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 04 June, 2019, 10:59:53 pm
Quote from: EllysH on 30 May, 2019, 06:11:58 pm
All the rules put in place on the road - and elsewhere, really - only work is everyone follows them. Otherwise the system quickly breaks down.
I used to live in Germany, where they would accuse you of being a child murderer if you crossed an empty road without the green man.  I think that we survive fine in the UK with jay-walking, it's not a problem that causes the system to break down.
The issue with cycling is that some rljing is equivalent to the $%& in cars blasting through the light that changed 3 seconds ago, but then some is no different from a pedestrian not waiting for the light to change.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Arno on 07 June, 2019, 08:36:39 pm
Virgin media Van driver in this road today on the commute home https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.5987604,0.0205641,3a,51.8y,242.24h,100.5t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1s18AwyL45JUibanePaPWGeg!2e0!7i16384!8i8192
YB13ZHM resulted me in shouting F..K as the road is quite narrow and he clearly didn't see me or pay attention. He swerved a bit  as he got startled to see me going the other way.
My shout made him stop, only to lecture me about not swearing at him (  I only swore once and felt it was justified given the fright he gave me). No apologies whatsoever for not paying attention or using a phone, not for talking but for looking at the screen.

Posted about this in the virgin media forums, but not sure if it will have any effect or what's the best course of action to take. Don't have a video, just a pic of his van and face post the incident.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tail End Charlie on 07 June, 2019, 08:39:50 pm
On Tuesday, on my commute, I saw a deer and a baby deer!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 07 June, 2019, 08:45:49 pm
Quote from: Arno on 07 June, 2019, 08:36:39 pm
Virgin media Van driver in this road today on the commute home https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.5987604,0.0205641,3a,51.8y,242.24h,100.5t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1s18AwyL45JUibanePaPWGeg!2e0!7i16384!8i8192
YB13ZHM resulted me in shouting F..K as the road is quite narrow and he clearly didn't see me or pay attention. He swerved a bit  as he got startled to see me going the other way.
My shout made him stop, only to lecture me about not swearing at him (  I only swore once and felt it was justified given the fright he gave me). No apologies whatsoever for not paying attention or using a phone, not for talking but for looking at the screen.

Posted about this in the virgin media forums, but not sure if it will have any effect or what's the best course of action to take. Don't have a video, just a pic of his van and face post the incident.

Call or write to them. It's not acceptable and they will know who the driver is. If he needs to use his phone in any capacity, then he should be parked.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 08 June, 2019, 09:38:33 pm
Quote from: ian on 07 June, 2019, 08:45:49 pm
Call or write to them. It's not acceptable and they will know who the driver is. If he needs to use his phone in any capacity, then he should be parked.
There will be an online form or email on their website.  Do let them know, it helps you have the license plate #.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 10 June, 2019, 09:17:49 am
They usually track vehicles these days and or at least know what job they're on, and you get double points when they discover their driver isn't where they were supposed to be.

Most big organizations seem to take it seriously (the only ones who have been shit in my experience are National Rail and Uber). Smaller ones are a bit hit and miss. If they don't take it seriously, they don't get my business.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 10 June, 2019, 12:42:45 pm
There are now 3 significant road closures in or near Derby. Traffic is going to be much worse than usual for weeks and even months (there are two big projects on). Obviously, I'm largely unaffected*, but I wonder how many of the cagers will consider cycling?

*Approaching one of the closed roads this morning was tricky: the drivers in front were taking different actions, some turning left (per the diversion), others ignoring the diversion signs and turning right to carry out an inappropriate u-turn, and yet others just stopping to look at the closed road, as though it might just vanish if they stared hard enough. Given this variety of approaches, I decided it was best not to try to go around left or right.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 11 June, 2019, 09:30:37 am
It was easy to tell which way the wind was blowing yesterday afternoon. When I got home the fronts of my shorts legs were wringing wet while the backs, and the saddlebag, were bone dry!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 13 June, 2019, 09:55:07 am
I’m finding my commute to be pretty tiring and finding my enthusiasm for (week day) club rides has largely gone because of my 50km daily ride.  This didn’t seem to be the case when I was doing ~30km/day.   I’m certainly slower on chaingangs, I’m not especially bothered by this though.

But this mornings ride along the very quiet canal path in cool early morning is easily enough to convince me it’s worth it.  Not to mention hearing folks moaning about traffic in the office
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 13 June, 2019, 12:11:28 pm
Yesterday evening was wet. Ocean-wide and abyssal-deep puddles. A reminder of how truly awful our roads are.

Anyway, cyclists of London, get some fucking mudguards.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bludger on 13 June, 2019, 12:24:58 pm
Just had a call back from the fuzz 4 weeks after the incident. Insufficient evidence to prosecute, your word against his. The CCTV showing him veering into me deliberately wouldn't stand up in court. Maybe get a camera mate etc.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 13 June, 2019, 07:24:47 pm
Quote from: ian on 13 June, 2019, 12:11:28 pm
Yesterday evening was wet. Ocean-wide and abyssal-deep puddles. A reminder of how truly awful our roads are.

Anyway, cyclists of London, get some fucking mudguards.
Like I said, doppelgangers. And what really pisses me off is that they put on an extra spurt, just to get ahead, and then pull in about 4" in front of me. Bastards.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 13 June, 2019, 09:07:19 pm
I confess I bailed from CS7 at the earliest opportunity for the Brixton-ward delights of the A23, there was more dirty water in the air than on the road. And yes, the zipping in front of me and then unleashed the torrent right into my face. Delightful.

Not many cyclists seem to make it past Brixton. I'm not sure if that's because they turn off or some strange dimension shift deposits them into a doorless branch of Foxtons for the rest of eternity.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: quixoticgeek on 15 June, 2019, 12:11:14 am
Quote from: ian on 30 May, 2019, 06:20:00 pm
To be honest, while I accept the safety argument in principle – if there's someone revving hard behind me and I pretty much know it's an aggressive twunt in Audi or a lorry driver on the phone telling his mate about the epic hangover he has, yeah, I'm gone. But the majority of lights I see jumped aren't because of safety, it's impatience because the person on a bike can't be bothered waiting a minute or so. Which is same reason drivers do it, of course.

The smell of sweet Mary J is strong the Mad Max re-enactment zone that is Croydon. I suppose it takes the sting out of living there.

There's another reason that red lights get jumped. Bad design.

Often a junction will have sensors, either inductive, or motion, to detect that a vehicle is waiting at a particular light. Unfortunately not all sensors will detect a bike. I've had numerous occasions where after several minutes of watching the whole junction cycle through, without my side getting a green, I've given up and cycled across when it seemed safest.

I'm riding a steel bike, you'd think it'd be enough to trigger an inductive sensor, how carbon bikes fair, I've no idea. Yet in both the UK, and Netherlands, I've had to jump red lights because they just didn't change.

J
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mustgettaller on 15 June, 2019, 09:06:41 am
Quote from: quixoticgeek on 15 June, 2019, 12:11:14 am

There's another reason that red lights get jumped. Bad design...


We had this problem at some temporary traffic lights on my commute last week.

First car was miles back from the lights, and I'm pretty sure they only changed when the system 'got bored' and set our lights to green. I was about to dismount, walk back to the car and explain that he needs to be nearer to me! That would be a first.  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 15 June, 2019, 12:10:49 pm
Traffic lights should have a time element as well as a sensor, so that each direction gets a green light once every n minutes if it hasn't been triggered anyway. This isn't always present but it sounds like it was in your case. I expect there's a standard for the value of n but what it is, whether it's satisfactory and whether it's always followed, I don't know.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 15 June, 2019, 05:10:49 pm
Artic in front of me at conjested roundabout. I’m 2m behind it, in the middle because there’s no choice: parked cars to the left and just enough room for oncoming traffic to the right. There’s a line of cars behind me and we’re all waiting for the lorry to move.

Suddenly, the truck’s reversing lights come on and I realise my predicament: I’m in the detention level garbage-masher.

I stood still for a moment: sometimes reverse lights just come on (I don’t know why that is). But the lights stay on and then, incredibly (because the circumstances are far from conducive for such a manoeuvre), the lorry starts reversing.

I was off the bike sharpish and looking for my exit when it promptly stops, and starts to pull forward.

Phew.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 20 June, 2019, 02:58:38 pm
Turns out that this morning was "drive like a dick" day in Birmingham, with more cars than usual on the road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 20 June, 2019, 05:21:21 pm
Quote from: fd3 on 20 June, 2019, 02:58:38 pm
Turns out that this morning was "drive like a dick" day in Birmingham, with more cars than usual on the road.

#CleanAirDay
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 21 June, 2019, 11:35:14 pm
#ffs
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 27 June, 2019, 10:30:28 am
On the commute yesterday, mad skillz on display: hooded gentleman riding hands free and texting with both hands.  Well done sir!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 27 June, 2019, 11:25:51 am
Car drifting over very close every time it passed me. I was going to ascribe intent till I noticed the driver was (a) high as a fucking kite and (b) shouting into the phone she was gripping in the hand that wasn't holding her odoriferous cigarette. As a bonus, her young kid (I'd guess about 10) was in the passenger seat.

Welcome, my friends, to badlands of Wild West Croydon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chopper on 28 June, 2019, 02:01:51 pm
I had a new experience on a bike yesterday; when whizzing down hill the air was so hot that the faster I went the hotter it felt, instead of the usual cooling effect.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 28 June, 2019, 10:39:24 pm
I discovered a downside of playing around on bridleways for a commute is when you meet the local herd of bulls being moved back to their farmyard!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 01 July, 2019, 08:50:01 am
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48167432446_91e4722e70_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2gooFxd)  (https://www.flickr.com/photos/jurekb/)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 01 July, 2019, 09:17:54 am
Ah, that's where I parked it.

Not really commute, but took the long route back from one of my wife's gigs on the common of Clapham yesterday, which was pleasant. For me, not the for the guy in the Enterprise luton van on the lane just up from the church in Chaldon, who'd managed the snag the back on a tree limb, wrenching it off and distributing the contents of someone (from the look on his face, his) house move over the road). Judging by the advanced state of cleanup, he'd been sitting there wedged across the lane for some time, he'd found some cones for other drivers to ignore at the end of the lane. I hope he ponied up for all the insurance options when he hired that van.

Just because GPS says it's a good idea, it doesn't make it so.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 02 July, 2019, 02:57:19 pm
Knew someone whose husband drove their removal van under a low bridge. I was told the debris field was spectacular  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 02 July, 2019, 05:09:54 pm
I forgot from my Adventures in Wild West Croydon collection – traffic was snarled up on Friday evening. The cause eventually became obvious, a driver had stopped up by the station to wait for a parking space. Now there wasn't actually a parking space, she was just waiting. Nothing could get by. Honk. Honk. Beep. Beep.

She was having a full-on row with the other drivers and refusing to budge, yelling 'I NEED TO PARK HERE!'

Rumour has it that even the four horsemen of the apocalypse detour the area.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 05 July, 2019, 08:15:34 am
First full house of 2019, don't really know why, got lazy I guess, part of the idea was that if I did less commuting I'd do more riding for fun, in the end I just did less riding.

Got complimented on my signals by a chap from Seamons last night who wanted know which club taught me them. Errr......Osmosis Wheelers?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 05 July, 2019, 10:11:14 am
On the ride home yesterday (on the laidback) won a game of chicken against an uncoof of yoofs who wheelied at me taking up the whole path travelling in the other direction.  I have been informed on a couple occasions that I need to take the bike to the doctors, because it is ill*.

*the word "sick" may have been used
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 05 July, 2019, 10:23:46 am
Quote from: Si S on 05 July, 2019, 08:15:34 am
First full house of 2019,
Don't you have to get home first before you can call it a full house?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 05 July, 2019, 07:15:15 pm
Quote from: Si S on 05 July, 2019, 08:15:34 am
First full house of 2019, don't really know why, got lazy I guess, part of the idea was that if I did less commuting I'd do more riding for fun, in the end I just did less riding.

Got complimented on my signals by a chap from Seamons last night who wanted know which club taught me them. Errr......Osmosis Wheelers?
I only managed my third of the year two weeks ago. I must be slacking.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 06 July, 2019, 05:00:12 am
Quote from: Nuncio on 05 July, 2019, 10:23:46 am
Quote from: Si S on 05 July, 2019, 08:15:34 am
First full house of 2019,
Don't you have to get home first before you can call it a full house?

True, but I wasn't going leave the bike in the middle of Manchester all weekend
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 06 July, 2019, 11:14:58 am
Quote from: Si S on 05 July, 2019, 08:15:34 am
First full house of 2019
?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 06 July, 2019, 11:42:12 am
Probably 'ridden to/ from work every day of the working week'.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 06 July, 2019, 08:02:01 pm
Not a game for me to play; I’m about 4 miles from work and the only other option would be walking (there’s a ym comic about what I do whe;it snows).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 08 July, 2019, 09:48:18 am
Quote from: LittleWheelsandBig on 06 July, 2019, 11:42:12 am
Probably 'ridden to/ from work every day of the working week'.

Yes, that. I went for years with hardly a day missed, a lot of the pleasure has gone from it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jakob W on 08 July, 2019, 06:33:08 pm
Because my OH was away I had to do the school run and then get myself to Wolverhampton to do some lectures, then get back again for the school sports day. Took the Brompton, thinking I'd cycle from school to the bus station then get the bus, but decided I didn't want to risk being late, so just decided to cycle all the way. Was pretty ok - the roads weren't too busy, drivers were surprisingly good as passing, and if the industrial estates weren't all that picturesque, the sun was out. 15 miles on a Brompton was more tiring than I'd expected, mind, but I think I'll do the same again later in the week when I have to be in Wolves again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: telstarbox on 08 July, 2019, 07:19:10 pm
Was ok except for some inconsiderate riders on Quietway 1, including one who rode up the grass verge to "undertake" a pedestrian.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 09 July, 2019, 09:53:36 am
Wet today and none too warm either.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 15 July, 2019, 06:17:22 pm
Visiting Dutch person aboard the mothership, upon seeing one my colleagues arrive in his lycra and full kit, asked if he was in 'fancy dress' to celebrate the TdF.

He's apparently not. I took her to look at the lane on Blackfriars Road which she marvelled was 'almost' like the Netherlands.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 17 July, 2019, 08:36:51 am
With bling new rear wheel from Als. The Hope hub helps on the canal path.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 17 July, 2019, 05:05:00 pm
Got shouted at by a road captain on a red MTB for not indicating. That's because I was going straight on at a crossroads,.you nobend.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 19 July, 2019, 12:29:54 pm
Saw a bloke on a sort of electric blue Galaxy, I think that was a model from around 2012 or something. A bright, light blue colour, you hardly ever see them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 24 July, 2019, 09:45:36 pm
Delightful chap behind, as I slowed down to let someone cross the zebra on the super-cycle lane by St George's Circus, yelled 'look on your left, you cunt.'

I wished him a good day. Life is too short and the day too nice to waste time on that nonsense. That said, as the bloke next me said, 'miserable fucker, isn't he?' Anyway, if you're out there, I hope that shouting abuse at a random stranger somehow improved your day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: EllysH on 26 July, 2019, 08:55:44 am
Quote from: ian on 24 July, 2019, 09:45:36 pm
Delightful chap behind, as I slowed down to let someone cross the zebra on the super-cycle lane by St George's Circus, yelled 'look on your left, you cunt.'

I wished him a good day. Life is too short and the day too nice to waste time on that nonsense. That said, as the bloke next me said, 'miserable fucker, isn't he?' Anyway, if you're out there, I hope that shouting abuse at a random stranger somehow improved your day.
Why was he on the left?

Sent from my COL-L29 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 26 July, 2019, 10:03:39 am
So he could squeeze by me on the inside and get to the crossing a femtosecond earlier, I guess. He had to stop anyway as there were a good dozen people on the crossing. He wasn't even fast, he didn't get ahead of me as I coasted by the Imperial War Museum.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 26 July, 2019, 12:08:28 pm
That's the problem with London.  If you cycle in a sensible secondary position, someone (more likely several someones) will squeeze through on the left.  Especially if you behave erratically by doing things like stopping at red lights.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 26 July, 2019, 01:39:55 pm
It was at the bottom of the Blackfriars cycle lane where it goes around St George's Circus and joins Lambeth Road. There's a zebra crossing across Lambeth Road. There's really no place to over or undertake (as it's still a segregated lane), nor much point in trying. Once you're around the corner of and over the zebra, you have the entire width of Lambeth Road to over- or undertake at your pleasure.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrij on 27 July, 2019, 10:42:09 pm
Six days of work, six sets of bicycle commutes.  :thumbsup:

Not done similar in ages, though hope to keep close to full house (+1) from now on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 29 July, 2019, 06:01:32 pm
Drivers REALLY don't give way to traffic from their right on mini-roundabouts any more.  I get it in the car too, and often have to stop when I have right of way.  It's worse on a bike though.  Why should I stop my 1.5 tonne vehicle for a mere bicycle, you can almost hear them think.  It's worse in the pikier areas due to the number of people driving unlicensed, or recently arrived in the UK and haven't experienced mini-roundabouts before.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 29 July, 2019, 08:06:56 pm
I had a sidsy (no “mate”) this morning.

Driver pulled out of a side street right in front of me. I had time to stop because I could clearly see her not looking at me. Perhaps because I was using a lane for buses and bikes, and I wasn’t a bus.

When she sidsy-ed me I said that was because she hadn’t looked. She half-heartedly maintained she had, but she apologised again quite sincerely and said she’d be more careful in future.

Which, frankly, felt like a win.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 30 July, 2019, 08:58:39 am
1st pxxxxxxx for two years since I swapped to Michelin Pro Tecs, Andy fixed a new inner for a tenner and showed me the drawing pin that caused it. Not a normal cheap pin, a bit longer and thinner.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 31 July, 2019, 10:07:38 am
Trying out new more open sandals but they were very cheap and they felt it this morn.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: caerau on 31 July, 2019, 03:13:41 pm
Today, as I cycled down a residential street right near my house on the initial part of my normal commute - a road with parked cars on one side where I can just zoom through most of the time even with a car coming the other way - unless it's a very wide vehicle..... I encountered a.... (and this *is* rare on this road) - a BUS!  :jurek: :jurek: :jurek:


Darn it - I'll just have to slow down and let it through - harrumph.  Not the end of the world I suppose.


Only to find it slow down and flash to let me through first.  :D   As I gave him the thumbs up and a visible thank you - I received a cheery wave in return.




As I arrived at a traffic light later, the world returned to normal as a car overtook me only to immediately stop at the red light - but hey - I will not let the rarity and pleasure of the above event go unsaid!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 31 July, 2019, 10:36:09 pm
Today I had an oncoming driver turn right across my path so precipitously that my braking resulted in a rear wheel skid. Better than a front wheel skid, I suppose.

Although it's the second one this week, for the sake of perspective, it's also only the second or third this year.

Rough week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 06 August, 2019, 08:37:32 am
After a long stretch of dry commutes (though there may have been 1 partly drizzly one last week), I found myself, already drenched, having to swerve sightly to avoid an empty can of Heineken and coke bottle bobbing towards me down the hill, atop an impromptu stream.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: telstarbox on 19 August, 2019, 08:57:31 am
When I got to the bottom of my road this morning a waiting police moto directed me to stop, and shortly afterwards one prime minister swept past in a blur of Land Rovers and blue lights.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 19 August, 2019, 10:05:41 am
Last week was mostly wet. So much for August.

Mostly amused watching the cars ignore no fewer than four ROAD CLOSED signs on the last section of my journey. Up the hill they go. A minute later, down they come. That's because ROAD CLOSED means just that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 21 August, 2019, 08:36:30 pm
Bah, road no longer closed. It was quite nice. Kids on bikes. People on horses. Now back to rat-running cars and fly-tippers.

Saw an off on Kennington Road, chap beavering away into the ubiquitous south London headwind, speedy boy does the usual overtake with a millimetre to spare because he's in competing in the TdF dickhead edition or something. He clipped the guy's front wheel and sent him sprawling.

Anyway, other than cuts and bruises and one smashed phone, he seemed OK. Plenty of other cyclists stopped with the notable exception of the guy who knocked him off, who glanced over his shoulder and kept going. Nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 21 August, 2019, 09:43:45 pm
Ha, saw ian's post above and for a milisecond thought "I didn't know the Bath Road was closed." Then I realised that if it had been, ian wouldn't have been there anyway, and if he had been, it wouldn't have been the same Bath Road. Okay, you can all forget about that now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 21 August, 2019, 10:18:21 pm
I've no idea where Bath Road is. Somewhere near Bath would be my guess.

Anyway, I was talking about Old Lodge Lane, which is in fartherest parts of the London Borough of Croydon, where the inadequately socialised squirrels take over. The signs claimed it would be closed for 'approximately 4 weeks' from the 5th August. Approximately, indeed. It's a bit of a uphill clamber and there's a pub at the top (sadly, never the sort of artisan beer made by hipsters that I crave) or you can ride up and down the runaway of Kenley waiting for the MoD to arrest you. Which they never, ever do.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 21 August, 2019, 10:23:31 pm
Quote from: ian on 21 August, 2019, 10:18:21 pm
I've no idea where Bath Road is. Somewhere near Bath would be my guess.


And you call yourself a londoner! Bath Rd = A4 through west london e.g Hounslow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 21 August, 2019, 10:58:55 pm
There is a real Bah Road too! https://www.makaan.com/agra-residential-property/buy-land-in-agra-bah-road-153762-lcudn
If that's on ian's commute, he's probably lost.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bludger on 21 August, 2019, 11:26:04 pm
to be fair I'm a Londoner and I'd only known of the Bath Road when I moved to Berkshire as that was the site of the local TT speed demons.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 22 August, 2019, 08:34:40 am
Very pleasant one this morning after a soaking last night.  :)  But it looks like I'll get a soaking again this evening   :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 22 August, 2019, 09:59:25 am
Quote from: matthew on 21 August, 2019, 10:23:31 pm
Quote from: ian on 21 August, 2019, 10:18:21 pm
I've no idea where Bath Road is. Somewhere near Bath would be my guess.


And you call yourself a londoner! Bath Rd = A4 through west london e.g Hounslow.

Hmm, I might have known that – I did use to live in Ealing – but I'm a Souther now. It's a long way to Bath from Hounslow though.

Anyway, I didn't get to ride along the runway (which is mostly fallen to bits) because the glider people were still packing up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 06 September, 2019, 10:38:11 pm
Alas, the day is drawing its shades on my longer summer commute. The final league was decidedly crepuscular this evening. There was even a special guest owl. A deer nearly ran into me (fortunately I was going uphill at 0.1 mph, it wouldn't have been so lucky has it been one of the usual Friday-night chavrockets). Popped straight out of the hedgerow, stopped for a moment (green cross what?), then bounded off. Later a cat ran out in front of me and stopped. I stopped. We did the stand-off. No really, you go. Then it bolted back the way it came and up a fence. It really should have looked where it was going then it would have seen the other cat sitting right there on top of that fence. Oh well, that's what happens when you collide large feline hadrons. A very loud interaction. The runway was empty so I did my Spitfire thing. Come get me, MOD. Next stop, Area 51. Beer. Bath. Beer. Sovereign, Deadly, Perfect on the radiogram. It might be 30km on a Brompton, but it sure beats the train and good god, the scrunched and miserable faces in the cars.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 08 September, 2019, 12:28:53 am
Commuting on the speedmachine for [reasons].  Lots of laughs from the kids at the FE college.  I noticed on Thursday a couple instances of repeated beeping from cars; not aggressive (I don't think) more like exuberant oafs after England have won at the 11-a-side.

Also, cyclist SMIDSY'd me, pulling out to turn right across me.  I was going apace and had just had the thought of "there's a road ahead to my left with poor visibility, maybe I should coast a bit", which probably helped.  I reckon he clocked me and misjudged the time he needed to get past me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: telstarbox on 16 September, 2019, 08:03:41 pm
Lights were deployed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 16 September, 2019, 08:18:10 pm
My commute was a tad different today

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hQ8FH8OM_UA/XX_e__5OGgI/AAAAAAADFhA/5NO_LzIGGZcJqiVZBmCYWBiiFbnvS8tyACKgBGAsYHg/s1600/IMG_20190916_175853.jpg)

That's an ordinary bike path,  in between a quiet road and  a motorway. Really hard to get used to how good it is over here, even away from the main towns. (Netherlands)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 16 September, 2019, 08:47:54 pm
Last week but memorable. While stopped at the only level crossing on the way to work, the Union of South Africa chuffed past with some happy passengers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: caerau on 16 September, 2019, 08:57:32 pm
I saw TWO tractors going through the city centre the other day.  One would be unusual but two was magnificent.  I'm sure the other local drivers were livid.


No though, that was not what was that remarkable.  What raised the bar was, that the first one, on Castle Street itself - the centre of the universe in Cardiff - was seen by lots of small children and was greeted with lots of cheering, jumping up and down and general excitement of those little tots on their way to school.  This made me smile a lot :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 17 September, 2019, 09:11:40 am
Beautiful morning today. It was cool when I left the house, but when I went down the hill to the canal path, you could feel the drop in temperature. It was around 5.5C on the canal path this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 21 September, 2019, 03:52:54 am
The past week was my first full house of cycle commutes this year. ‘Something’ has always got in the way to date and working away probably means no cycling next week at all.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 24 September, 2019, 08:31:26 pm
Cyclist overtook me clambering slowly up Fountain Drive, one of the delightful cheeks of Mount Crystal Palace. It was only belatedly I noted he was emblazoned with the word YACF. Now he could have been advertising everyone's favourite long-player Sounds from the Feline Vomitarium: 101 Tracks Guaranteed to Make Your Overstaying Dinner Guests Leave or one of you has escaped.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 25 September, 2019, 06:21:45 pm
First commute on the df fixed after three weeks on the sm laidback.  Felt like I was riding a tall bike or ordinary!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rr on 25 September, 2019, 08:47:53 pm
Had a visitation as I approached home, flint through a marathon plus.
Got the tyre on and off no problem though.

Sent from my moto x4 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 25 September, 2019, 09:55:29 pm
Two bloody punctures on the way in today. Bah !!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 26 September, 2019, 08:24:21 am
I went through a spate of punctures but the durano's I was using were pretty worn and seem to cut up very easily on the canal.  I've gone on to gatorskins. I've not tried these (or any continentals) before.

Last night I was on a quite narrow winding road where cars will pass close and quite fast.   They did but I recognised a motocyclist coming the other way and we waved at each other. This seems to make drivers treat you with more respect, its like they now recognise you as a person rather than an inconvience.  I've noticed this often, to the extent that when I happen to meet my wife at the sets of traffic lights in Kirky on her way back from work (quite often) I make sure its obvious I am seen to be chatting in a friendly way with her in the car.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 26 September, 2019, 10:21:07 am
Quote from: caerau on 16 September, 2019, 08:57:32 pm
I saw TWO tractors going through the city centre the other day.  One would be unusual but two was magnificent.  I'm sure the other local drivers were livid.


No though, that was not what was that remarkable.  What raised the bar was, that the first one, on Castle Street itself - the centre of the universe in Cardiff - was seen by lots of small children and was greeted with lots of cheering, jumping up and down and general excitement of those little tots on their way to school.  This made me smile a lot :)
:thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 26 September, 2019, 04:56:19 pm
Dickhead tried to overtake and turn left all at once, straight into a single lane road with traffic coming in the opposite direction.  Ended up in the middle of the intersection, unsure what to do, looking like a ...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 26 September, 2019, 06:47:14 pm
After a fairly benign spell, yesterday evening was horrible. Two drivers simply turned across my path forcing me to skid to a halt. One because she simply must get that parking space, the other, who knows, I doubt she even noticed my existence as she simply overtook and immediately turned left. Coming down South Norwood Hill, a mini-cab simply stopped with the preamble of pulling over and the door swung wide so someone could leap out into my path causing another emergency deceleration. She at least apologized, but yeah, not bright on behalf of her or the driver.

Obligatory aggressive overtake by a monster truck I'd held up for approximately four seconds in South Croydon. And then almost, on the local over-parked and least favourite road (well documented elsewhere) a bunch of idiots revving about an inch from my back wheel to a chorus of shouted abuse. I eventually (an entire ten seconds later) turned off and a moment later an empty glass bottle flew by my head into the hedgerow. Then they sped off, only screech to a halt about fifty metres down the road. At that point, I opted not to hang around for a chat.

It really shouldn't be like this.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 27 September, 2019, 06:05:53 pm
Ian, that sucks!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 27 September, 2019, 06:25:23 pm
It was. And to make it worse, it wasn't even a craft beer bottle.

I do feel bad now about not calling the police, but really what did I expect them to do. Some blokes that I didn't actually see in a car that I can't identify. Even if the police gave a shit, which I doubt.

It's really the impotence of being unable to do anything about it. I have a quaint notion that one should be able to cycle down a road and not expect to be abused and threatened.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 27 September, 2019, 09:16:40 pm
Virtual hug and good vibes to you sir.
I suggest getting really grumpy about it for the evening, then tomorrow recall the 364 good days where you are thankful not to travel in a cage or cattle class.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 01 October, 2019, 01:31:50 pm
Carrying the cool tool around paid off last night. I came upon a young cyclist in the rain, bike upside down, explaining to someone on the phone that the chain wouldn't stay on. When she finished her call (I think it was a she, but it was dark, my glasses were wet, and she was so wrapped up I couldn't be sure), I asked if I could help. She explained that she'd come off her bike and now the chain wouldn't stay on. On inspecting the single chain ring, it was bent, and deviating from true by about 1cm. The plastic chain guards either side were cracked and unable to keep the chain on the wobbly ring.

Another cyclist turned up to help. I said to the first that I might be able to straighten the ring but there was a risk it could break instead of bend. She said it was okay to try it because her folks didn't have a car so her only alternative was walking home the 12 miles. (That wouldn't have been necessary: I was only 2 miles from home and I would have cycled home and come back in the car for her and bike if I hadn't been able to fix it). She had started at college the previous week and was cycle commuting.

I got my cool tool (with adjustable spanner) out and adjusted it to the width of the ring. She held her front light so I could see what I was doing (it was properly dark by now) while the other cyclist braced the bike. It took about 5 minutes of gently 'cold setting' the ring back to a straight enough shape that the chain would stay on it. The other guy suggested changing gear on the back to get as straight a chainline as possible, and advised her to stay in that gear. I asked her if she was okay to ride and she said yes - her knee was a bit sore, but she said she could manage.

The three of us set off and the chain stayed on for the next 1.2 miles: the point at which me and the other cyclist parted ways with the YP. Before we did so I said she should get her bike checked out before her next journey, and she said her dad could do that. I hope she made it home. I think she should have done: everything was in tact and - barring another incident - it looked robust enough.

I've occasionally thought about dropping the cool tool from my armoury: I have a full-length 15mm ring spanner for the nuts on the wheels of the fixed bike, and pedal removal with the adjustable spanner would be so hard that I'm not sure it would even work. But I'm fond of it, and you never know when an adjustable spanner might come in handy - like last night.

 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 01 October, 2019, 04:33:27 pm
Paul the hero!

Anyone else fed up with getting absolutely drenched?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 01 October, 2019, 05:06:41 pm
Quote from: mrcharly-YHT on 01 October, 2019, 04:33:27 pm
Anyone else fed up with getting absolutely drenched?
I've got two kits on the go: one is drying out while the other is getting wet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 01 October, 2019, 05:19:19 pm
Quote from: Paul on 01 October, 2019, 01:31:50 pm
[...]

I've occasionally thought about dropping the cool tool from my armoury: I have a full-length 15mm ring spanner for the nuts on the wheels of the fixed bike, and pedal removal with the adjustable spanner would be so hard that I'm not sure it would even work. But I'm fond of it, and you never know when an adjustable spanner might come in handy - like last night.

Good stuff.   :thumbsup:

The 6" adjustable probably sees more action than anything else in my on-bike tool kit.  Not only is it useful for more exotic thing-bending problems and general BSO-fettling, it's something most other cyclists don't bother carrying.  I've even used it on my own bike a couple of times.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 01 October, 2019, 11:15:50 pm
Quote from: mrcharly-YHT on 01 October, 2019, 04:33:27 pm
Anyone else fed up with getting absolutely drenched?
Stopped on the way to work to put on overtrousers.  Stopped a minute later for overshoes.  I have never added waterproofs mid-way on a ride in before.
But I am starting to enjoy the rain.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 02 October, 2019, 08:21:41 am
Quote from: Paul on 01 October, 2019, 05:06:41 pm
Quote from: mrcharly-YHT on 01 October, 2019, 04:33:27 pm
Anyone else fed up with getting absolutely drenched?
I've got two kits on the go: one is drying out while the other is getting wet.
No tumble drier, no heating on and RH of 95%; nothing is drying! Now up to 3 sets of kit ...

It didn't rain this morning, hurrah!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 02 October, 2019, 09:05:14 am
Quote from: mrcharly-YHT on 01 October, 2019, 04:33:27 pm
Anyone else fed up with getting absolutely drenched?

Oh yes, nothings drying, I've got sores on my sores  :'( , all this started when I stupidly rode a bike without guards last week  :facepalm:

Oh and I'm sick of the smell of wet hair
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 02 October, 2019, 09:25:24 am
The torrential rain, at least, was enlivened by thunder last night. The power poncho is working quite well, though I had to sit on to expose the rear light. I do get very wet feet though. The amount of surface water on London roads is atrocious. Enormous road spanning lakes in several places.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 02 October, 2019, 12:47:35 pm
Quote from: mrcharly-YHT on 02 October, 2019, 08:21:41 am
Quote from: Paul on 01 October, 2019, 05:06:41 pm
Quote from: mrcharly-YHT on 01 October, 2019, 04:33:27 pm
Anyone else fed up with getting absolutely drenched?
I've got two kits on the go: one is drying out while the other is getting wet.
No tumble drier, no heating on and RH of 95%; nothing is drying! Now up to 3 sets of kit ...
Indeed. If it hadn't been for
Quote from: mrcharly-YHT on 02 October, 2019, 08:21:41 am
It didn't rain this morning, hurrah!
I'd have been wearing some very bottom-of-the-drawer stuff.

(I'm very lucky in that we have a whole room at work for drying kit, which is a luxury: those horrible evenings when I had to put wet stuff back on to ride home are over. However, that doesn't stop you getting wet on the way home, and our house was turning onto a lycra launderette, with wet tendrils of the stretchy stuff dangling from every head height protuberance. It was like trying to navigate Shelob's lair!)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 02 October, 2019, 01:15:37 pm
PSA:  https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=113589.0   ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 02 October, 2019, 01:25:07 pm
The hot pipe under my cage at work - for the avoidance of doubt, that's a drying cage for clothing - was fixed last Friday. Better late than never. The combination of wrapping wet stuff round a hair-dryer hose* while I'm showering, and 8 hours hanging in the cage above the hot pipe works well for lycra and jackets. Mitts are placed directly on the pipe when I've not had the foresight to pack a spare pair. Shoes are the problem. So I wear sandals when I can (with socks this morning, for the first time in months).

*I hope no-one uses the hair dryers for drying their hair.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 02 October, 2019, 07:39:01 pm
Nice n'sunny.  Used a bar-end mirror (Cateye bm-45) for the first time ever; actually found it quite useful - so it will stay for the mo...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 02 October, 2019, 11:13:13 pm
Very cold one this morning. Frost on the cars and it wasnt a surprise on passing the second junction to see a car turing on to the main road with a tiny wee square cleared on his windscreen.

Nice commute though, especially the ride back.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mustgettaller on 03 October, 2019, 11:41:15 am
Quote from: Nuncio on 02 October, 2019, 01:25:07 pm
The hot pipe under my cage at work - for the avoidance of doubt, that's a drying cage for clothing - was fixed last Friday. Better late than never. The combination of wrapping wet stuff round a hair-dryer hose* while I'm showering, and 8 hours hanging in the cage above the hot pipe works well for lycra and jackets. Mitts are placed directly on the pipe when I've not had the foresight to pack a spare pair. Shoes are the problem. So I wear sandals when I can (with socks this morning, for the first time in months).

*I hope no-one uses the hair dryers for drying their hair.

I assume you mean the sock dryer. I had a go at someone in our work changing rooms for using the sock-dryer for drying his hair.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 03 October, 2019, 04:39:26 pm
Idiot in a car overtook the cargo bike in front of me, which meant that they nearly drove head-on into a cyclist coming in the opposite direction (narrow road only big enough for one car).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Andrew Br on 04 October, 2019, 07:03:20 pm
Quote from: Si S on 02 October, 2019, 09:05:14 am
Quote from: mrcharly-YHT on 01 October, 2019, 04:33:27 pm
Anyone else fed up with getting absolutely drenched?

Oh yes, nothings drying, I've got sores on my sores  :'( , all this started when I stupidly rode a bike without guards last week  :facepalm:

Oh and I'm sick of the smell of wet hair

That's a problem I'd like to have Si.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 04 October, 2019, 10:17:49 pm
Got a lift up the hill and rolled back down it; but I think it's still a bit soon to try and hold on to even MTB bars with broken fingers. I was in quite a bit of pain by the time I got home :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 05 October, 2019, 06:17:41 am
Quote from: Andrew Br on 04 October, 2019, 07:03:20 pm
Quote from: Si S on 02 October, 2019, 09:05:14 am
Quote from: mrcharly-YHT on 01 October, 2019, 04:33:27 pm
Anyone else fed up with getting absolutely drenched?

Oh yes, nothings drying, I've got sores on my sores  :'( , all this started when I stupidly rode a bike without guards last week  :facepalm:

Oh and I'm sick of the smell of wet hair

That's a problem I'd like to have Si.

Happy to help  (https://www.hairbro.co.uk/products/french-lace-front-with-poly-back-stock-hair-replacement-system)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 09 October, 2019, 09:07:46 am
I had to put my lights on this morning. The first time in over 6 months.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kangaroocourt on 14 October, 2019, 11:27:59 am
Monday morning gridlock through west and central London.  HGVs making deliveries - difficult as it will be to achieve, surely they have to be off the road after 5am?  And hundreds of police, almost as many as needed to round up the peaceful ExR protests.  Welcome to police state Britain.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 14 October, 2019, 06:38:08 pm
Damp.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Joe.B on 15 October, 2019, 10:50:02 am
Quote from: Kangaroocourt on 14 October, 2019, 11:27:59 am
Monday morning gridlock through west and central London.  HGVs making deliveries - difficult as it will be to achieve, surely they have to be off the road after 5am?  And hundreds of police, almost as many as needed to round up the peaceful ExR protests.  Welcome to police state Britain.

I that the same thought while walking over Waterloo Bridge last week. There must have been 50 odd coppers, lining each side of the bridge like some sort of ceremonial guard, yet not a single protester to be seen. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 15 October, 2019, 10:53:23 pm
Some driver decided to pull a U-turn in a gap in peak-hour traffic. Unfortunately I was the gap.

A gentle roll onto the bonnet resulted, along with scuffed handlebar tape and a small bruise. I may be getting a bit too blasé about or distracted during my cycle-commute, given the close calls I’ve experienced recently.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 16 October, 2019, 09:52:04 pm
Quote from: LittleWheelsandBig on 15 October, 2019, 10:53:23 pm
Some driver decided to pull a U-turn in a gap in peak-hour traffic. Unfortunately I was the gap.

A gentle roll onto the bonnet resulted, along with scuffed handlebar tape and a small bruise. I may be getting a bit too blasé about or distracted during my cycle-commute, given the close calls I’ve experienced recently.

Whoah !  Hope this is the wake up call you need if your getting too blase.  A close call. Glad your OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peat on 18 October, 2019, 09:58:30 am
Not me, but my colleague.

Shared use pedestrian/cycleway here: https://goo.gl/maps/1F4mWEVTDd9aR5MW6

Approaching sirens from behind. 4x4 passes my colleague and immediately turns left, mounts kerb and stops (presumably to 'get out of the way' of the emergency service vehicle). Colleague clatters into the side said 4X4. The lady driver apologies and explains that he hadn't seem him - the cyclist she had just driven past in the hi-vis yellow coat and red flashing lights.  :facepalm:

God help us all.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 18 October, 2019, 12:39:31 pm
last commute of my 50's today - where have all the time/miles gone? Been doing this commuting by bike for some 30 yrs and I still love it - esp on the fixed altho' I may go back to 48x19 this winter.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 18 October, 2019, 12:50:02 pm
Quote from: Andrew Br on 04 October, 2019, 07:03:20 pm
Quote from: Si S on 02 October, 2019, 09:05:14 am
Quote from: mrcharly-YHT on 01 October, 2019, 04:33:27 pm
Anyone else fed up with getting absolutely drenched?

Oh yes, nothings drying, I've got sores on my sores  :'( , all this started when I stupidly rode a bike without guards last week  :facepalm:

Oh and I'm sick of the smell of wet hair
That's a problem I'd like to have Si.

 ;D

Been running 40 mins or so late these last couple of days, it never fails to amaze me the chaos that appears in that brief time frame.

Commuting seems to have got a lot easier since the GPS receiver in my phone died, totally unconsciously I'm taking it easier but the journey time is the same.




Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 18 October, 2019, 01:39:32 pm
With the dark mornings come the mega-bright front lights.  On the canal path where in general there is no lighting and its shaded by trees, you get totally blinded by some of these.  Additionally, the random overhanging branches means squeezing to the side is a gamble esp when blinded.

For a short time I commuted on a bike trail in Seattle. It was very busy (very wide and often unlit) and commuters there partially covered their lights to "dip" for on-coming cyclists.   I wish that would happen here.

Another pet peeve while I'm at it is how bright a lot of LED brake lights are when your sat at the lights.  At 2 sets last night I had to shield my eyes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 21 October, 2019, 10:40:25 am
Gritters out last night !  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 21 October, 2019, 01:07:45 pm
Quote from: sg37409 on 18 October, 2019, 01:39:32 pm
For a short time I commuted on a bike trail in Seattle. It was very busy (very wide and often unlit) and commuters there partially covered their lights to "dip" for on-coming cyclists.   I wish that would happen here.
I experienced this recently (in Derby) and liked it so much I have adopted it (even though I would say that my light is not Sauron-like).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 21 October, 2019, 01:42:59 pm
Quote from: Paul on 21 October, 2019, 01:07:45 pm
Quote from: sg37409 on 18 October, 2019, 01:39:32 pm
For a short time I commuted on a bike trail in Seattle. It was very busy (very wide and often unlit) and commuters there partially covered their lights to "dip" for on-coming cyclists.   I wish that would happen here.
I experienced this recently (in Derby) and liked it so much I have adopted it (even though I would say that my light is not Sauron-like).

This is why I prefer to use a head torch as a FRIKKIN LAZER for off-road paths where such illumination is warranted - you can simply turn your head away from oncoming users, leaving something StVZO-compliant[1] on the bike.

But on the odd occasion I've been riding the Reasonably Priced Mountain Bicycle with it's Cheap Shitty Conical Beam From China on the towpaths of Middle Earth after dark, it's an approach I've adopted, simply because toggling the beam between high and low means you have to go through the Super Epileptic Strobe-o-DETH mode which is de rigueur for such lights, and completely unsuitable for use around open water.  Or people with functional eyeballs.


[1] I draw the line at worrying about cyclists dazzled by correctly aligned StVZO-compliant lights.  It usually means their own lights are homeopathic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 21 October, 2019, 01:56:53 pm
The problem with correctly adjusted Stvzo lights is that they only need to be half a degree too high and you're dazzling people, half a degree too low and you're riding into darkness on every downhill. In practice, this half degree is provided by bumps in the road. Same applies to cars as well, if not more so.

The problem with shading your light with that it's a result of having a basically inappropriate light for the situation. Also, what do you do if you want to brake or change gear, let alone indicate?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 23 October, 2019, 08:58:56 pm
I don't often commute via cycle as I have a company van and often start or end the day delivering parts. However due to a week off work I cycled home today and will probably cycle back in next week

It was mostly enjoyable. Vast majority of drivers gave me loads of space. Police BMW X5 could have given me more. Want a close pass but wasn't leading by example either.

Main thing though was the hideous fumes. Unfortunately a fair chunk was alongside the A12 and I could taste the fumes. Would consider some sort of mask if they work and if I did it regularly. Unfortunately at 18 miles it's a bit far if I want to see the kids in the morning or much in the evening
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 23 October, 2019, 09:23:00 pm
AIUI, any mask you can move enough air through to ride a bike isn't going to be suitable for filtering out motor vehicle pollution.  You're into fully enclosed with an independent air supply territory.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 24 October, 2019, 09:02:18 pm
Spotted a recumbent rider on whatappeared to be a uss street machine.  I’m guessing Kim.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 25 October, 2019, 04:24:33 pm
Chose not to ride across the toucan crossing on Blackheath but wait for the next cycle.

A bloke had wedged a rocket in the bin on the other side, lighting the paper just as the lights changed. He hadn't quite got across the road before it went off. At least he'd ensured all the closest traffic was stopped before the bang. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 31 October, 2019, 09:38:51 pm
Yesterday was the first encounter with black ice this winter for me.

Got out of the saddle for a moment, and the back wheel spun out in that way it does, making you think: Bollocks!
The rest of that section was done rather gently.

The temperature profile shows that section as being -1.

https://www.strava.com/activities/2829031608

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 01 November, 2019, 12:58:06 pm
“Signalling!”
“Hello”
“No, signalling!”
(But ... I didn’t change lanes or turn and am not about to turn)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andrewc on 04 November, 2019, 09:22:51 am
Ouch!   Off again this morning.   It had been raining/drizzling earlier & everything was damp.   Coming through the shared use/pedestrian area it's a polished stone surface.  I slowed & indicated for a left turn, and as I moved the bars the front wheel just slid to the right.   Landed on my left knee  :'(

Not my bike, one of the public ones. 

No blood but it's starting to stiffen up already, so I'd anticipate limping around for the rest of the week.  I may work from home for a few days, which I don't like.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 06 November, 2019, 10:56:16 am
Riding on very muddy roads on slicks is a stupid thing to do. I gave up falling off and bouncing years ago.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 08 November, 2019, 09:36:59 am
Ah, the big puddle. Better slow down and get off. Oh look, the road is rather black where the cars have been sluicing through it.

A bit late. By the time those thoughts had passed through my mind, I was giddily sliding along the ground. I think I managed a good several metres of sliding across a very thick layer of black ice.

Stood up, dusted myself down, took a single step and then slipped over and landed on my arse. Then the bike fell on me. Revenge, she duly declared.

Should have stayed in bed. I only came in because I have a bloody optician's appointment.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 13 November, 2019, 07:58:12 pm
First Proper Icy commute of the winter here.
Had me walking a couple of times.

Time to revert to the Main Road route, which gets treated.

<eta>
If any of the drivers who passed me today had *any idea* how little grip they had, they would not have been going anywhere near so fast.
Sitting in a warm car, you are so isolated from the actual conditions outside.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nuncio on 13 November, 2019, 08:23:34 pm
No ice here on my return commute, but a later departure meant more cars and there was rain and sleet, it was dark and cold and I toothache flared up. Flash flooding meant that I was either riding through water or being splashed by passing cars. My hands weren’t working properly by the time I got home and I had to wait a bit before I could turn my lights off. I’ve had more enjoyable commutes.

Oh, and a confession. I passed a cyclist mending a puncture and didn’t stop to offer help - partly because I didn’t think I’d be able to, but mostly because I wanted to get home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 13 November, 2019, 10:20:16 pm
Got as far as the Croydon when the rain opted to become a real and present cold wet thing. I did flirt with the idea of getting the train from South Croydon but by that time my body opined that it couldn't get any wetter, thanks. I always think I'm nearly home at that point. I'm most evidently not (two-thirds says my watch). The rain did stop the moment I reach the bottom of the drive though.

Still sore from the ice. Alas, I don't really bruise so get no sympathy. Look! What? Sigh.

(One day a car will skid on that big icy puddle and plunge onto the train passing on the tracks below and everyone will die. But I'm sure it will be someone else's fault.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 14 November, 2019, 01:15:17 pm
A burst water main created a dramatic fountain here in Salford last night. I had to ride under/through the v.heavy shower which meant I was now wet on a cold night. Happy Days! The commute home was a text book in motorists trying their hardest to have a crash by rlj/u-turning/under-taking et al. Fortunately I was just riding and observing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 14 November, 2019, 05:27:59 pm
It was a bit wet.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 18 November, 2019, 03:29:59 pm
Blocked a close pass with a slightly exaggerated elbow out & mitt to nose, nose wipe.  Cars queueing in the other direction, engine note of the car behind suggested they were accelerating to pass with inadequate room. Elbow out, pass stopped.   Also blocked a traffic island close pass - but with an arm out and lane take...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 18 November, 2019, 11:38:15 pm
Someone did a 3 point turn on a busy road.  The annoying bit was that they had just passed a car-park they could have turned in and they were 30 secs from a roundabout.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TJG on 20 November, 2019, 11:42:02 pm
I am really not sure any more if I am going to be hit from behind with an over close pass or witness a head on collision due to an impatient overtake first. I involuntarily  shut my eyes and held my breath expecting one of the latter this evening!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 21 November, 2019, 08:16:06 am
First one since my op.  Felt good to be back on it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 21 November, 2019, 12:01:06 pm
Quote from: sg37409 on 21 November, 2019, 08:16:06 am
First one since my op.  Felt good to be back on it.

 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 26 November, 2019, 10:02:54 pm
I give thanks to Mr Speedy who decided to cut inside of me as I slowed to let one of those long Volvo estates turn into a petrol station, briefly clipping my front wheel, and then spraying me in the face with dirty water as he sprinted off which meant that I spent five minutes getting grit out of my contact lenses. When I finish building my Karmic Redistribution Engine something terribly, terribly bad is going to happen to you, sir.

Then, as I descended the Hill of Doom, a scrotal strangling descent in this era of endless leaf mush my brakes start with an aguish squealing only normally heard when demons feed the souls of the damned into a paper shredder (that's mostly Wednesdays, between 7 and 8pm). This reminded me of that urgent brake block replacement chore that I abandoned a few weeks back because Nothing Was Working.

Oh it's no bad thing, I reckon I shaved a couple of grams from the titanic weight of that bloody Brompton.

Anyway, some swearing and an hour in the garden got the bloody things off, the inserts out (no, no, don't use the tip of a sharp knife, said my inner Ms Sensible, so I found something stabby in the cupboard, stuck that in the remaining rubber, selected a playlist of some the finer words of anglo-saxon heritage, and levered the fucking things out, put the new ones in, faffed about for ages lining everything up and putting everything back together, a process made more difficult by everything being practically subaqua).

I'm going to be finding grubby finger marks around the house for weeks like it's a bloody a crime scene that CSI have been over.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bludger on 26 November, 2019, 10:15:23 pm
Had a few bits happen today.

Firstly, in the morning when I got into work, I noticed that my right shoe's sole had split near the cleat. They're a pair of Spanish luck shoes I've had for about 19 months. After a quick chat with Katie on the live chat, Planet X are going to honour the warranty and have given me a paid-for postage sticker to send them back them with, which is good of them. I have given them a good febreeze-ing to try to spare them the worst of the whiff  :P

Secondly, on the way home, it became clear my left crank had come loose. Tightened it back up, the bike's done about 9,500 kilometres and stubbornly refuses to do anything wrong. I will be glad to be rid of it but amazingly I have still yet to have a puncture on the bike so can't moan about it that much. I have been through more wheelsets on this bike than I have inner tubes (the ones that came with wore out). Madness.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 28 November, 2019, 02:20:20 pm
Last night the elderley motorist who insisted on two thirds of his car occupying the cycle lane. He had a great quantity of my lumens thro' his back window but he didn't move over. Got past eventually and after that I could have sold tickets for the motoring antics (luckily away from me) that were going on
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 28 November, 2019, 07:35:17 pm
I'd like to recognise the courtesy of the many drivers last night who reacted to my outstretched hand as I indicated to pull out to avoid yet another oceanic puddle by slowing down and letting me perform said manoeuvre rather than simply hammering their horn and trying to barge by the first opportunity.

Well, I'd have liked to.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 28 November, 2019, 11:21:56 pm
Motorist in blue car stopped to let me out and then passed with masses of space.

Cheers!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 29 November, 2019, 05:17:52 pm
Turning and stopping as a car pulled out of their drive - did not realise I did this on ice.

Next thing I knew I was running down the road with my bike skidding alongside me.  Never did that before and wouldn't have managed if I had tried.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 03 December, 2019, 08:33:06 pm
More stylish than my falling off, standing back up, slipping over and having the bike fall on me then. I did manage to lose the wheel at some speed on some autumnal leaf slush the other week we're I somehow did much the same as you, by landing on my feet while the bike flipped and landed next to me so I could hop back on, no bother. Audience of nil, mind.

I was naughty this morning and bypassed the scaresomely rimed road surface by cycling on the pavement.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 04 December, 2019, 08:45:21 am
Nice morning today, with my new front light. (cateye ampp500) My previous cateye volt200's didnt seem to be holding charge long enough for journey home and back, and they were hopelessly out-gunned by the mega-lights I meet coming along the canal.

My commuting has been a bit irregular recently because of nights out and loss of mojo.  Hoping to get back into the routine now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: paddyirish on 04 December, 2019, 06:13:58 pm
Last week stopped to offer a guy who was struggling to with a puncture a CO2 canister.  Rushed off after to pick up kids.

Yesterday morning's note to self.  When you have your own puncture (on Marathon winter spikes which are a b****d to get off, but easy as pie to put on), make sure you have closed the valve on the C02 device before screwing in the canister...

Further ignominy on returning to the bike after working late to find that the other tyre was punctured. Finally admitting defeat, I took the train home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jimmea on 06 December, 2019, 05:23:55 pm
My chosen longer route home had to be aborted due to the large fresh diesel slick that had been leaking from a bus or truck some way ahead of me.

Seemed to be particularly bad on the downhill bits. I came off due to a similar leak a few weeks ago and injured my wrist.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mustgettaller on 09 December, 2019, 10:25:29 pm
Probably my slowest ride in to work this morning - something to do with 18 miles of 30 knot headwinds.

Alas the wind had dropped this afternoon.  ::-)

However today did bring my total bike commute on this job (since May) to over 1,000 miles. Quite pleased since this is with working from home 2 days a week, and not riding if it's pissing with rain  (don't really want to spend 1 1/4 hours getting soaked).

All in all a  :) day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: paddyirish on 11 December, 2019, 09:26:49 am
Yesterday was the first day in a very long time that the FRB was closed for the commute in both directions.  Brilliant service for walkers/cyclists with flat bed trucks waiting at both ends to take you and your bike across. 

Yellow warnings for wind and rain and gusts up to 60mph+, so rule #9 applied. Proper horizontal rain at times on the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 16 December, 2019, 10:29:02 am
Had to walk some bits this morning.   Very icy so was riding really slowly which meant I was freezing cold. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: jimmea on 16 December, 2019, 10:36:00 am
Quote from: sg37409 on 16 December, 2019, 10:29:02 am
Had to walk some bits this morning.   Very icy so was riding really slowly which meant I was freezing cold.

Car for me. It looked as if it had rained and then turned to ice as soon as it hit the ground. My street and the route to work was like an ice rink.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 16 December, 2019, 11:24:06 am
BANG! Inner tube exploded - 2 mins from home. Back home, change wheel off we go. 7 miles later BANG - same issue. There is a hole in the sidewall caused by a brake pad that has moved prob when I hit a pothole. So new tube with a vinyl glove acting as a tyre boot and then a steady 5 miles hoping nothing else will go wrong. So 2 tubes gone and at least 1 tyre - amateur!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 16 December, 2019, 01:20:05 pm
Quote from: paddyirish on 11 December, 2019, 09:26:49 am
Yesterday was the first day in a very long time that the FRB was closed for the commute in both directions.  Brilliant service for walkers/cyclists with flat bed trucks waiting at both ends to take you and your bike across. 

Yellow warnings for wind and rain and gusts up to 60mph+, so rule #9 applied. Proper horizontal rain at times on the way home.
What are FRB and rule #9?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 16 December, 2019, 01:24:54 pm
Forth Road Bridge and https://www.velominati.com/
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 16 December, 2019, 01:34:35 pm
Cheers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TJG on 16 December, 2019, 10:12:35 pm
I am convinced the gritters this year have been using a finer grade of salt than in previous years, I have barely even felt them.  The first I met going the other way this evening even stopped and gave me a thumbs up, must have been a cyclist driving.  Lulled into a false sense of security I did not even flinch for the second I met.  That one was loaded with the more familiar buckshot! Ouch. 

I am definately not complaining though.  The side roads were starting to look dicey.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 16 December, 2019, 10:27:36 pm
Last night everything was frosty when I went to bed. When I got up this morning the thermometer said 3C. I didn't fall down the steps of certain death outside our door and there were no signs of ice. So far, so good.

Until I got to the other side of town, turned off a ped crossing and onto a shared bike path and lost drive. Message didn't get through to my brain so I changed up a gear and promptly fell off and broke my magic hat.  :(
Importantly nobody saw me.

Pushed the bike most of the way up the big hill to work.

Assumed it would all be warm when I left for home but it was worse with more ice over much more of the route. Lost all my confidence and pushed a lot of the way home.  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: T800 on 17 December, 2019, 01:34:32 pm
The blinky LEDs in my Lumo jacket came in handy when returning a loan bike to the LBS to pick up my own bike yesterday. I'd left work later than expected, a few minutes after sunset, and the loan bike only had reflectors on it.

Lumo seems to have gone out of business though. Nothing on their social media since May and you can't purchase anything on their website (shopify error messages). Phone line seems dead too. That's a pity.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 17 December, 2019, 07:26:43 pm
On my ride home last night a driver waited patiently behind me as I approached the apex of the narrow, double solid white-lined hump back bridge.

This is something of an event, to be frank.

Then, even though there was probably enough time and clear road in the 200 yards (if the driver had accelerated hard) to overtake me before coming to a complete stop at the back of the very visible queue of traffic at the roundabout ahead, s/he decided to sit patiently behind me at 20 or so mph.

I try not to praise driving which is only of the standard one should be entitled to expect but that bar has moved so much over the years that I was happy to turn around and give this driver a big thumbs up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 17 December, 2019, 11:30:45 pm
It was so foggy my helmet light beam was painting a cone in the air that obscured my vision.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DaveReading on 19 December, 2019, 08:15:58 pm
Quote from: Paul on 17 December, 2019, 07:26:43 pm
I try not to praise driving which is only of the standard one should be entitled to expect but that bar has moved so much over the years that I was happy to turn around and give this driver a big thumbs up.

I feel that way, too. Bear in mind that you're not just acknowledging the safe driver immediately behind you, you're also demonstrating to the rest of the queue that cyclists appreciate courtesy and consideration.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 20 December, 2019, 08:38:34 am
Getting very weary of wet roads. Someone told me that cambridgeshire was officially arid.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 20 December, 2019, 08:39:47 pm
A rare cycle commute for me today due to having a company van but needed this off drive for Christmas. Thankfully the biblical rain had stopped by about lunchtime but was still very wet out. Stopped at Colchester United ground for a kit change in one of the covered cycle shelters as my waterproof trousers were really uncomfortable over shorts so work trousers went back on.

Due to tiredness and a cold the temptation to get on a train was great at Colchester and as I started to slog into wind down the A12 cycle path from Marks Tey the urge to turn back to Marks Tey Station was greater but I carried on. Found seeing the path hard but think that was due to cycling toward oncoming traffic who's lights massively outshone mine.

Glad I did persevere though
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 20 December, 2019, 09:28:02 pm
Well done. Sounds like dogged perseverance that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 23 December, 2019, 02:34:10 pm
Definitely need a new chainring, slipping so badly I'm missing most of the skin off my right shin after this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 23 December, 2019, 03:34:19 pm
Thanks Hatler. The question is can I be bothered with the return leg Friday. That'll involve being a wheel at not much past 6 am
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 27 December, 2019, 08:37:01 am
The return leg was lovely apart from the fact it ended up at work to be greeted with the Internet is broken (fixed it by turning it off and on again)

Wind had swung round so didn't get the hoped for tail wind but wasn't strong. Roads were really quiet and got a honk honk honnnnnnkkkkk from a passing Aldi lorry, as I was on thr cycle path alongside the A12 I'm assuming it was a hello unless the driver really hates cyclists

Also love the bus lanes I get once into Colchester and at 7am meant I pretty much had them to myself. In fact I entirely had them to myself as saw one other cyclist who was on the cycle path and no buses
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nethypete on 29 December, 2019, 08:03:16 am
Doing the end of year stats - managed to bike to work four out of five days (81%) totalling 2005 miles and giving me plenty of time to unthink everything and nothing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 31 December, 2019, 11:17:08 am
Cold one today.  The foxes seem very active just now on my recent commutes, morning and evening. Not very sure why.
This morning I could see the orange eyes from a way off and he sat there until I was quite close before running away.That was the 3rd one I'd seen this morning, and am averaging about 2 sightings per commute.  In the summer its less.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 31 December, 2019, 11:21:55 am
IIRC this time of year is when foxes' fancy lightly turn to thoughts of love, or at least the making of little foxes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 31 December, 2019, 03:55:02 pm
Well that could explain the noises coming home last night.
The canal was spooky last night for a few reasons  ;D

Dark
Weird animal noises a couple of times.
Movements in the bushes - I was wary in case it was neds waiting to scare me - It was a deer  ;D
A fox darting out right in front of me gave me a fright
Moon reflection on the water

 - I enjoyed the ride  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 06 January, 2020, 08:46:27 pm
Noticed a bit of a wobble in the rear wheel as I neared home but couldn't find a broken spoke. Cracked the eyelet out of an Open Pro on my Frezoni. It usually stays indoors through winter but the fixed is currently OS with a broken dynamo headlight. Better the rim let go on a commute than during a long brevet but still annoying. Time to dig up a compatible replacement rim or possibly a new wheel. The Ultegra freehub has occasionally been skipping over the past couple of years.

I'll need to sort a bike for tomorrow's commute. What joy!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 06 January, 2020, 09:10:45 pm
Hmm.
Commuting bike got put away a bit wet and unloved at xmas.

This morning, the chain was a bit squared off and reluctant to turn!
A bit of lube and fettling, and we're good to go.

But not so much.
The brake calipers are both seized, so after pulling them on, they remain engaged. The springs are not up to moving back against the seized-ness.

And then on the ride home, a snakebite p*ncture on account of the tyre pressures being about half what they should be.

I'm going to a special cycling hell for this lack of attention.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 06 January, 2020, 11:04:21 pm
In quick succession:
Cyclist in head to foot yellow, eye-dazzling light and re flashy reflectors on wrists, cycling on the pavement.
Jeep/SUV thing crossing to drive on the wrong lane so that they didn't need to go over speed bump with all their wheels.

... maybe the second explains the first, I'm just happy that I won my impromptu game of chicken.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Nethypete on 07 January, 2020, 06:03:08 pm
It was a tad windy.....with me on the way in but not on the way back. :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 07 January, 2020, 06:21:27 pm
1. Motorist stopped at the red light - the guy behind him thought that was a stupid idea and overtook him, driving straight at me. Well played.
2. Totally unlit cyclist riding along a busy road (not on the pavement).  From his left he was reasonably well silhouetted by the car behind him, but I thought someone coming from his right at the intersection would take him out.
3. Waiting for a gap in traffic "forever" apparently is barely a minute or two.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 08 January, 2020, 11:01:49 am
Yesterday, during the morning dodge of scurrying pedestrians by Borough Market, one chap, hood up, purposefully marched out into the road at the crossing (not on green). Generally, you have a good head of steam at this point if you want to avoid a taxi enema, but I managed to avoid him. Not so the woman behind who whacked straight into him and came off.

He started ranting and raving in unspecified foreign and getting quite aggressive and quite clearly had swapped his morning cornflakes for unprescribed pharmaceuticals (it's often unclear whether they're on too little prescribed or too much unprescribed medication). I figured I'd put myself and bike between him and the women as she picked herself up so I could explain to him the many benefits of his leaving (which I doubt crossed the language barrier, but I figured would keep him distracted). He was repeatedly thrusting his hands deep in his parka pockets in a way that got a bit troubling, given the peculiarly stabhappy attraction of the London Bridge area. Fortunately by this point, a few other of the many hundreds of passing people had stopped and the woman had righted herself.

As I'm quite cowardly, I'd prefer less excitement on my first commute of the year. She was fine other than a wobbly wheel, some bruises, and a gust of unwanted adrenalin.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 08 January, 2020, 08:27:48 pm
Well done on intervening.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 09 January, 2020, 03:21:27 pm
She hit him pretty hard, I glanced back as I swooshed by him to see her crash solidly and at some speed right into his leg. He's going to feel that if he ever comes down or has a brief period of lucidity.

To be honest, it's a horrid junction, the infrastructure is insufficient for the number of pedestrians (the close proximity of London Bridge rail and tube, Borough Market, etc.). He just marched right out through the waiting pedestrians into the road without even a glance though. He's lucky it wasn't a taxi or van because that would have hurt a lot more.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 09 January, 2020, 07:14:43 pm
It was a braw bricht moonlit nicht the nicht
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 13 January, 2020, 12:57:04 pm
Discovering that with a bright front slow flash light (day or night), & filtering in queued traffic, cars stopped in dashed line, painted on bike lane will often move right to make way for you.  Coaches & buses not. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 13 January, 2020, 08:52:35 pm
Coaches and buses are that bit wider and longer that they probably can't.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 14 January, 2020, 03:47:14 pm
Took different route in to avoid coachageddon around the four schools.

Driver up ahead stopped on double yellow, link road midway between two close RABs, road fairly quiet (business park). 
Yep on a mobile.  Quick mention that they're illegally parked & using their phone.
Driver had apologetic expression on face, but was silent. 
Phone showed driver was 'shopping for Lingerie'...   ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: robbieonsea on 14 January, 2020, 07:58:03 pm
 :smug: You know it's an invigorating ride against the wind when the only other people about (pedestrians) give you the thumbs up and/or shout words of encouragement! Luckily with the seafront closed off to motor traffic I had over two lanes to myself, which was needed to keep going vaguely straight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 15 January, 2020, 09:47:20 am
I had a lightbulb moment:  When passing pedestrians on shared use path I used to call out "passing on your right", but realised that if I start saying this when they can hear me they won't have time to react to the important instruction (the side I'm passing on), so I have shortened it to "passing right" which seems to work better.  Also, it may make me out to be a member of the BNP.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 15 January, 2020, 10:08:08 am
I have no immediate concept of what right and left are, so good luck, because I'm not unique (leastways according to every woman I know, all of whom seem practised in saying no, the other right.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 15 January, 2020, 10:21:51 am
Last night I met another cyclist* on the cycle path with lights so bright and badly aligned I had to stop to clear the artifacts from my damaged retinas.

Can I use the stalking power of strava flyby to suggest to Simpy Snowflake that their balance between lights to see, and not being a dick, is perhaps not correct?

*I assume it was a cyclist, the pattern of lights suggested Provis jacket, head torch and 3 headlights, and their strava profile picture looks a lot like a bloke on a bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 15 January, 2020, 11:32:42 am
Good ride in, but walking clomping around work in my XC SPDs, having failed to return my work shoes...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 15 January, 2020, 12:17:19 pm
Quote from: fboab on 15 January, 2020, 10:21:51 am
Last night I met another cyclist* on the cycle path with lights so bright and badly aligned I had to stop to clear the artifacts from my damaged retinas.

Can I use the stalking power of strava flyby to suggest to Simpy Snowflake that their balance between lights to see, and not being a dick, is perhaps not correct?

*I assume it was a cyclist, the pattern of lights suggested Provis jacket, head torch and 3 headlights, and their strava profile picture looks a lot like a bloke on a bike.

I encountered one before Christmas, three super-bright lights, one on flash, all face-on so nothing approaching could see anything.

And if you managed to dodge those, he had another on top of his helmet.

Some people are just destined to be dicks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 15 January, 2020, 12:57:55 pm
Quote from: fboab on 15 January, 2020, 10:21:51 am
Can I use the stalking power of strava flyby to suggest to Simpy Snowflake that their balance between lights to see, and not being a dick, is perhaps not correct?


Yes.   Very much so in fact.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: RobertW on 15 January, 2020, 08:38:43 pm
Van driver going the other way this morning said 'I would want to cycle down there' and he was right but given the detour would be at least 5 miles a deeper than expected flood (up to BB deep) was worth going through.  The worst I have experienced in 10+ years.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bludger on 15 January, 2020, 10:20:30 pm
Went to a leaving do and stopped at my 2/3s home pizza café joint and found a guy who'd just finished his shift had a rear flat. Fixed it for him and swapped a good tube of mine for his flat one. He talked to his colleague and I got a free calzone. Score!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 18 January, 2020, 01:22:11 pm
Calzone for innertube scandal!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 20 January, 2020, 08:07:48 pm
ICE!  If this happens too many time I will have to budget for a trike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 20 January, 2020, 08:51:38 pm
I’m feeling like somebody has made a voodoo doll after my third crash in three days, all losing the front wheel. Two were on Saturday morning on ice, so fair enough but this evening was on a roundabout and I was travelling only around 20kph. All falls in the same direction (just my luck) and the bruises and lost skin are starting to overlay each other.

Do Vittoria Rubino Pro tyres lose grip in low temperatures? The front tyre hasn’t been a problem till the recent cold weather, all three crashes were around zero degrees. The rear is a Voyager Hyper.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 20 January, 2020, 08:57:58 pm
I rode in gingerly and walked a few unsalted bits.  A fixie is quite nice in these conditions because you have a really weak non-snatching brake facility.  My work colleague wiped out on a frosty corner and was Not Happy by the time he got in. Tomorrow looks like more of the same.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 20 January, 2020, 11:15:28 pm
Ice tyres out of the shed and fitted to second set of wheels (+ round one of de-molding, must do something about the shed ... probably ignore it) - ime the winter tyres don' t make a difference, but they do make me feel better (and work harder).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 21 January, 2020, 09:22:30 am
Wheeled the bike to the main road as everything looked like ice and probably was ice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 21 January, 2020, 10:48:12 am
Some side roads bad today.  One main road not gritted although it's supposed to be on the gritting route.  Bit of wheelspin.  Didn't need to walk much.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 21 January, 2020, 11:00:29 am
For some reason, I neglected to attempt to ride down the 25% hill outside The Asbestos Palace (even when it's damp, the rear wheel on the Brompton locks and you slide). The difference between water and ice in this circumstance being equivalent to between vertical and horizontal. Lots of panicking parents who hadn't allowed extra time to de-ice their cars before the school run, the weather evidently coming as a surprise. Clouds of pollution from cars left running to warm up.

At least the pressure of car tyres had de-iced the delights of the backed-up A22 so I was the fastest moving object on it.

Brompton took some targeted application of violence to fold at the station, the main hinge must have acquired some moisture and had impressively frozen solid.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 21 January, 2020, 01:34:43 pm
Nice easy one: Early dentist appmt finished early so had plenty time to stroll in for the time I said I'd be in by.
Stopped for a few mins to watch some high-rise block of flats getting demolished by a brick-nibbler (is that a thing ?  Think that was in one of my sons books I used to to read him) Compulsive watching.  Nice to commute in daylight for a wee change.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 21 January, 2020, 02:28:58 pm
One of my SPDs froze while the bike was parked outside the shed, and was extremely reluctant to let me clip in.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: orienteer on 21 January, 2020, 05:41:29 pm
Hope it doesn't freeze while you're riding!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 21 January, 2020, 08:51:31 pm
Meandered back via Tooting. They've redone the junction at the end of Figges Marsh removing the roundabout and replacing it with killer death lanes (I think, the whole affair is so poorly illuminated that you can't see the lane markings till you're on top of them). It's like something you'd think, even given the standards of modern road design, is straight out of the sixties. It doesn't even work, trafffic was snarled in every direction.

As far as I could tell, there's no consideration for pedestrians or cyclists, just an expanse of poorly demarcated gladiatorial road space. This is London in 2020.

It's quite astonishingly bad and all for slightly less than £1 million (I presume this included the budget for crayons).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mustgettaller on 21 January, 2020, 09:28:06 pm
2nd day of feeling smug.

Yesterday crashes on the M27 sent traffic onto my commute route over the top of Portsdown Hill (Emsworth - Botley), so I rode past queues of traffic into Wickham and at the lights further on.

Today crash at the junction with the A32 at Wickham had caused about 2 mile queue. Very glad to be on the bike (again).

Coupled with frosty sunny morning (minimum shown on Garmin was -5.5C), a good ride in. No ice around, but exercised caution on some of the lanes!

Amazingly, car drivers on this rural potential rat-run of a route are generally considerate (although I may be getting immune to what others might call close passes). When I'm filtering up the right, it's not uncommon for drivers to pull in to the left to let me past!  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bludger on 21 January, 2020, 09:49:36 pm
Eventful one this morning:

(https://i.imgur.com/o01pXr6.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/HoZKbA4.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/GGfmR3b.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 22 January, 2020, 09:15:08 am
Ah, Southwark's newest lido.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bludger on 22 January, 2020, 01:27:51 pm
Thankfully I'd done a winter audax on the Saturday so I was capable of dealing with the conditions ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 23 January, 2020, 12:36:16 am
Prepared for ice, got fog instead.  Ice tyre did nothing for the fog!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Si S on 06 February, 2020, 12:57:30 pm
Ended up with another one legged ride home last night, why is always the left hand pedal that falls apart?

Cold this morning
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 07 February, 2020, 06:24:53 pm
Nice misty view of the Thames on the way out, and... a motorist who thought they shouldn't have to give me priority at the traffic calming - the kind that has the debris strewn channel for cyclists to use and be close passed by drivers.  So they waited, but held both arms up to signal their annoyance.   Turnip.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Joe.B on 11 February, 2020, 10:10:32 pm
My daily commute is only 3 miles, due East out and due West home again.  Despite the sleet, riding on studs, and observing all red lights and rules of the road I made it in 10 minutes flat this morning. 
The evening ride home however was probably the strongest head wind I ever experienced.   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peat on 12 February, 2020, 11:34:46 am
I reported a section of road on the fixmystreet app where the banks have been cut into by car wheels (road too narrow for 2x cars to pass one another) which has dragged mud into and made it into a dirt track. The drainage culverts are blocked with said mud so it floods even after a little rain.

I had recieved a notifciation saying the case was closed and that they wouldn't look at it again until the summer(?)

Yet, upon my commute last night, they have slung up signage 'ROAD VERGES DAMAGED' on a red square board. So, something *might* happen....who knows.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 18 February, 2020, 08:34:03 pm
Ubiquitous headwind, tunnelling density felt like about 22 squirrels/m3. Some spots of rain by Tooting Bec. Stop to cover bag. Gradual increase in the rain as I make merry with Becky Toots. Resume the A23 in Snorbs. WTAF. Wind, rain, apocalyptic stuff. Speedy boy on a skinny bike stormed (appropriately) by me and then stopped dead in the wind halfway up the hill after the station. I laughed for 0.35s and then cried. Or tried, my tears were blasted away and replaced with icy cold rainwater.

Gave up in Greater Croydonia, there was so much water on the road. Of course, it had all stopped by the time my train got home.

It didn't just build character, it then went and got a crane and swung a giant wrecking ball into it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 18 February, 2020, 08:40:13 pm
This apocalyptic stuff seems to have passed by The Forest on The Hill in its entirety.
Looking out of the window just now, I see dry streets with dry cars. ???
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 18 February, 2020, 10:38:04 pm
I didn't bypass me. I saw another cyclist hiding around a corner, trying to shelter, probably sobbing for his mummy. It never works. The rain will find you. It is relentless. It won't stop.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 19 February, 2020, 08:54:39 pm
Today, I had a dead drop by Charing Cross, pootled back to Tower Bridge by fancy bike lane along the Embankment, daydreaming away. Came to around 200m from home. Well, it would have been had we not moved over six years ago.

That added a couple of kilometres extra.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 20 February, 2020, 01:05:02 pm
Quote from: ian on 19 February, 2020, 08:54:39 pm
...Came to around 200m from home. Well, it would have been had we not moved over six years ago.

 ;D
It's ages since I've done that, but it is 7 years since we last moved.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 20 February, 2020, 01:09:42 pm
Headwind all the way this am. Sadly, the forecast is for a shift, so I'll be getting it from the left on the way home.

Something's up with the rear mech/cables. Shifting is currently rubbish. It can take 10+ seconds for the shift to occur after I've clicked by which time, often, it's too late. I'm currently clicking 2 or 3 times just to get the mech to move 1 sprocket, then clicking back to cancel the extra shifts before they kick in. The drivetrain has been horribly neglected, though. New cables and outers will be got.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: bludger on 20 February, 2020, 01:54:06 pm
Didn't keep on top of my chain tension and lost the chain on the fixed. Thankfully I wasn't going super quick and came safely to a stop. Sorted that out on the roadside...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 20 February, 2020, 03:08:31 pm
Well, yesterday... I hadn't been keeping on top of my chain tension either, under the mistaken impression that a chain tensioner would take good care of that. Not so - shanks pony to home and then the ghastly snot-infested Tube.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 20 February, 2020, 07:50:07 pm
Quote from: Paul on 20 February, 2020, 01:05:02 pm
Quote from: ian on 19 February, 2020, 08:54:39 pm
...Came to around 200m from home. Well, it would have been had we not moved over six years ago.

 ;D
It's ages since I've done that, but it is 7 years since we last moved.

It was only when I turned into the road and noticed the gates, I thought, erm. I still remember the code. I did have a peek at my former domain, it's not fallen down.

My brain helpfully told me 'well, if we still lived here, you'd be home now."

Instead, the better part of another hour in spotty rain with a gusty headwind. Uphill.

And then I got home wet and cold to find that the heating wasn't on, because we'd been out at a concert the week before and set to 2130 on Wednesday. Bah.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 24 February, 2020, 08:18:02 am
They'e patched up The Greenway! It felt weird not having to swerve and zig-zag around the potholes and broken surface bits, though this happy state of affairs won't last long judging by the truly professional job the highwaymen have made of it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 27 February, 2020, 06:48:59 pm
6 degrees and taters but Venus is massive and shiny just right of the moon, lovely to see!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Joe.B on 28 February, 2020, 08:49:24 am
Quote from: spindrift on 27 February, 2020, 06:48:59 pm
6 degrees and taters but Venus is massive and shiny just right of the moon, lovely to see!

Yes, I took the scenic route home last night and nearly crashed while admiring the Moon & Venus.

Incidentally on Wednesday morning one of my colleagues had a terrific sighting of a bunch of Elon Musk's StarLink satellites during his commute.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-derbyshire-50947661
   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 02 March, 2020, 12:32:18 pm
My route takes me along the A264, a dual carriageway between Horsham and Crawley.  Mostly it's ok with the occasional close pass.

This morning a huge slab sided coach slowed down to "only a bit faster than cyclist giving it beans" pace to overtake me, rather than zooming by at R17.

This was a Good Start to the week. I've even emailed them to say well done.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mustgettaller on 02 March, 2020, 04:03:00 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 02 March, 2020, 12:32:18 pm
My route takes me along the A264, a dual carriageway between Horsham and Crawley.  Mostly it's ok with the occasional close pass.

This morning a huge slab sided coach slowed down to "only a bit faster than cyclist giving it beans" pace to overtake me, rather than zooming by at R17.

This was a Good Start to the week. I've even emailed them to say well done.

Nice to hear some good news for once.  :)

On my commute, I go past a depot out of which an appreciable number of huge trucks emerges during my commute. Without fail, the vehicles from this company (L&S Waste Management) wait patiently when it's not safe, then pass me giving a wide berth (so far at least). I've emailed them to thank them. Haven't had a reply, which is a pity.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: chrisbainbridge on 02 March, 2020, 07:59:13 pm
ICE in large amounts today.  So glad I had the studded tyres on.  The mixture of roads still covered in puddles with mini-rivers crossing at regular intervals lead to whole sheets of ice at various spots.  I suspect that the awful state of the roads at least gave some sort of surface for tyres to grip on.

And

A white van man who overtook me forcing an oncoming car to do an emergency stop when there were 6-7 cars at the junction 200 yards away and a wider section in 50 yards!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: spindrift on 03 March, 2020, 08:29:14 pm
Had to go up the Norfolk and Norwich hospital today. Loads of staff cycling to work on a separate cycle lane that crosses the main road in, and there are bike racks everywhere outside every entrance but the bikes are pretty basic:

https://photos.app.goo.gl/3aWACYx1VXgYWxFi9

 Most European cities have sedate Dutch bikes as utility bikes, we have the bog standard flat bar hard arse hybrid or MTB. No 'guards, often. That's not to diss any of those bikes in the picture, God bless them for riding in, but the bikes are a bit clarty and knackered. No tourers. Saw one fixie.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 03 March, 2020, 10:46:45 pm
Quote from: spindrift on 03 March, 2020, 08:29:14 pm
Most European cities have sedate Dutch bikes as utility bikes, we have the bog standard flat bar hard arse hybrid or MTB. No 'guards, often. That's not to diss any of those bikes in the picture, God bless them for riding in, but the bikes are a bit clarty and knackered. No tourers. Saw one fixie.

I think it's a case of what's cheap and easy to obtain being what gets used as utility bikes.  The clue being in your use of the term 'bog standard'.

Go to sensible countries, and a 'bog standard' bike is quite different, if equally knackered.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 04 March, 2020, 09:00:07 am
Today's Good Pass was from that much maligned subset of road user, the skip lorry.  Pretty much the same stretch of road as the coach pass mentioned up thread, the driver pulled all the way over into the right hand lane of the dual cabbageway. I like.

The Not So Good pass was the driver of the Small Black Car who having passed me on the final 30m(?) of approach to a roundabout, proceeded to drift across in front of me so I could have reached out and touched her wing mirror.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 04 March, 2020, 10:01:55 am
Good and bad today. Left home a little late = bad. Nipped across the level crossing just as the lights came on = good. Had to fix a flat just the other side of the level crossing = bad (late for work).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 04 March, 2020, 01:17:59 pm
Dry commute both ways yesterday and dry again this morning. (No signs of a hosepipe ban just yet though)
Lovely morning to ride in today and am really liking the lengthening of the days (watching my garmin go from daytime display to night, vice versa) 
Very worn headset bearings is starting to make the handling funny. But have got a new frame at home to build up so I'm procrastinating on that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: chrisbainbridge on 04 March, 2020, 09:28:01 pm
Also had the Garmin light to dark on way in and out. Morning was one of the most beautiful I have seen. An incredible light just as the sun came up over slightly misty fields.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 13 March, 2020, 12:54:35 pm
Probably my last commute to work for a while.  On Monday my "commuting" jeans got soaked again and so I used endura 3/4's bib shorts. I normally much prefer pockets and "looking normal" on my commute, but the 3/4 were great.  They dried out really quickly compared to my jeans. I felt faster.   If/when I resume commutes to work I think I'll make these my normal gear.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 13 March, 2020, 06:39:23 pm
I always ask anyone who's stopped by the wayside fixing something if they have all they need (if possible). In my recent commute (coming up for three years at this gig) I had my first request for aid today. A chap on CS7 in the backroads near Elephant & Castle had run out of working thumbs when trying to get his tyre back on, so my fresh thumbs were able to oblige. (Halo duly self-applied.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 14 March, 2020, 11:06:54 am
And, a couple of days ago, a black cab closed me down at a gap as he went past me so I gently (and I do mean that) patted the rear wing. Not a thump, but loud enough that he would have been able to hear it.

He rolled to a halt in the inevitable queue (a whole 100 yards away) and as I approached I saw the passenger side window roll down.

"Oh aye, here we go" I thought.

"Sorry pal !!  I was too close."

:-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 14 March, 2020, 10:20:07 pm
Flip me sideways.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: chrisbainbridge on 15 March, 2020, 07:23:41 am
Is there a punchline I missed?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 15 March, 2020, 08:00:18 am
Quote from: hatler on 14 March, 2020, 11:06:54 am
...

"Sorry pal !!  I was too close."

:-)

Yes, normally 'patting the wing' would be expected to initiate extended spontaneous combustion.  Alien visitor?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: orienteer on 15 March, 2020, 09:44:53 am
Maybe a cyclist?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Joe.B on 29 March, 2020, 10:11:21 pm
Riding home from work today  there were hardly any cars to be seen, there were however rather a lot of cyclists around, every single one except me was riding on the pavement dispite roads being completely empty.  People who seldom ride making the most of their officially sanctioned exersise time i guess, though why they all keep away from the empty roads boggles me a bit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 30 March, 2020, 09:04:27 am
Roads are for cars, innit.

My commutes both ways have been absolute heaven. Fewer dog-walkers and joggers than usual in the mornings, and cars? what are they? both ways! Y'know, I could get used to this :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: chrisbainbridge on 31 March, 2020, 06:39:22 am
Quote from: Guy on 30 March, 2020, 09:04:27 am
Roads are for cars, innit.

My commutes both ways have been absolute heaven. Fewer dog-walkers and joggers than usual in the mornings, and cars? what are they? both ways! Y'know, I could get used to this :)
👍
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 02 April, 2020, 08:49:20 am
I saw a car this morning! It was blue.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 02 April, 2020, 10:56:24 am
Plenty cars here.   Roads not busy but still plenty.   I just realised mine has been unlocked on the driveway for about a couple of weeks.    Hope the fact the alarm isn’t armed saves a wee bit of battery
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: orienteer on 02 April, 2020, 11:11:43 am
Modern cars shut down more systems with the alarm set, hence conserve the battery better.

Intelligent chargers discussed in another thread somewhere....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rafletcher on 02 April, 2020, 11:12:36 am
Quote from: sg37409 on 02 April, 2020, 10:56:24 am
Hope the fact the alarm isn’t armed saves a wee bit of battery

But other systems may well be live in expectation of starting up. Best to lock it and all that's live then is the alarm.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 02 April, 2020, 09:08:39 pm
First cycle commute for almost a year, to the new office we brought online recently. It's only about 10 miles each way, so a good distance for a no-brainer use-the-bike commute like I used to have. Head office is 40 miles each way, so whilst I did that from time to time it just took too long to do it every day (at peak I was doing it three times a week).

It was lovely out on the roads. Almost no traffic, and without exception everything I did see was very patient and courteous.

Had a slight issue where my pass didn't work on the cycle gate to site (how awesome is that? The corner of the site closest to me has a bear-trap type gate specifically for bicycle access) but security sorted that out for this evening. When I went to check out why it hadn't worked, the guard said that they'd seen me having trouble and had come out to help, but I'd given up and ridden round to the main entrance. Good commuting distance, helpful guards, showers, safe to leave a bike there, I'm a happy bunny!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 06 April, 2020, 07:59:22 am
First morning commute in shorts this year. It feels sooo good to have the knees out. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: chrisbainbridge on 07 April, 2020, 08:22:27 am
I was not that rash but I changed the winter studded tyres for summer tyres. Oh the joy of silent smooth tyres. Instantly worth 2-3 km/hr.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 15 April, 2020, 10:02:54 am
Riding home through a small village last night, got caught up in a traffic jam of bicycles. Seems I'd hit the time when everyone was out for a bimble, families, couples, individuals. Never seen so many bikes on that stretch, it took quite a while to get through with a few of us "island hopping" up the line, maintaining distance. Luckily each group was leaving quite a gap between themselves and others, leaving a spot to drop safely into. Not a bad thing though, only added a few minutes and good to see people on bikes.

Still winning the tour de commute; whilst I'm nowhere near as fit as I was, I've overtaken loads and yet to be overtaken :-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 06 May, 2020, 03:32:10 pm
Blackpool sea front is a bike mecca at the moment. You can ride next to the tram lines since there are no trams, on the prom or on the lower level by the beach or sea. Lots of different bikes and yes pedestrians but the skies are blue and it's v.pleasant. easy parking as well due to fewer cars. My wife and daughter have been South to north and back today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 14 May, 2020, 09:01:39 am
I've unleashed a monster.
Last Friday night I idly mentioned to Mrs H that maybe she should get her bike out as it's probably five years since she rode it (and she's never done more than a few miles of a pootle). It is a very nice Specialized Dolce.

So Saturday she asked me to sort it out for her, and we did a 13k loop. Sunday a 22k loop, which prompted her to buy some new shorts. Yesterday she went out on her own and did 30k. Having taken up running last year and gone from couch to 5k to doing a couple of half marathons, she's got the base fitness to now be able to enjoy it and realise that she can ride up hills.

This morning I rode with her on the first 22km of her 28km commute. The first 16K takes her past my place, I showed her my route and the best way to get through the next town to join up with her normal driving route for the last bit, then we separated and I rode back to my work. She's meeting me here on her way home.

So from nothing to doing a 56km round trip commute in under a week.

On Sunday I suggested maybe she should aim to do a 100k Audax. She said there was no way she could do that, I think she's re-evaluating...
A new cycling wardrobe is being ordered, and I'm having to sort out proper commuting luggage for her bike. This is getting expensive.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 14 May, 2020, 11:50:37 am
Wahey !!!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 14 May, 2020, 05:11:10 pm
 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 21 May, 2020, 09:50:50 pm
Got ready to go today and discovered that the e-bike had a flat. Decided to take the Bob Jackson rather than fix the p*. Enjoyed the halving of the weight of my steed.

The visitation was odd as I had been doing some fiddling with the bike last night, including checking the pressures with a dial gauge. Then an overnight air exit event. Checked the tube in the sink, inside tyre, rim tape, all fine. Pumped it up - still fine.

 ??? Sticky valve core pushed in by the pressure gauge? But surely it would have been apparent at the time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 27 May, 2020, 12:28:07 am
Work is closed but did the commute as a quick ride out with #1 son.  Was on the speedmachine and got some interesting comments:
group of middle aged fair-weather cyclists - "that looks uncomfortable"
cyclist on a folder - "that's a stupid recumbent" (I can't be sure he said "stupid" but can't think of anything else that fits.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 01 July, 2020, 08:26:22 am
I had to wait at the A507 roundabout this morning. More motor vehicles in one go than I've got used to seeing on the entire journey. It might not be back to stupidly busy, but motor traffic is definitely on the increase.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cygnet on 15 July, 2020, 02:35:06 pm
Occasionally I've come across people commuting in TT gear and I've been known to do it myself when heading straight out training or racing after work . Not sure what this bloke was planning to do later though:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50115322471_18fe8bbcfa_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2jmw8nZ)Marginal Gains (https://flic.kr/p/2jmw8nZ) by Alcedoatthis (https://www.flickr.com/photos/65361243@N04/), on Flickr
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 15 July, 2020, 03:58:26 pm
Possibly he felt the need to helmet, but this was the only one available?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: JonBuoy on 15 July, 2020, 09:18:46 pm
I rode over to the new office today to unload my crate.  The promised secure covered cycle parking facilities didn't appear to exist outside the building so I wheeled the bike in through reception and found somewhere suitable that had carpet too  :P

The route I took was 23k with 300m of climbing rather than a dead flat 6k - I may need to fine tune it.  One close pass (but they were indicating to go past me so that's OK  ::-)) and one semi-emergency stop required as a car pulled out on me, saw me then stopped in the middle of the road.  Apart from that it was OK but I'm not convinced that I will be doing it again this year as I am currently WFH.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 29 July, 2020, 10:15:05 pm
Followed a rider earlier today: “proper” light touring / audax-ready bike, rack, pair of panniers, clothing to match, male. Noted first some dubious filtering decisions. Then they proceeded to go through every red light all the way down the King's & New King's Road and across Putney Bridge. Every single one, at whatever stage of phasing, sometimes needing to wait for a gap, sometimes riding on through as if there were no lights there.

Dunno why it always pisses me off so much but it does.

And there’s a female one that does it in the mornings. Same. Every day. Every light.

Neither one fast enough to avoid catching up with while they get themselves stuck somewhere stupid or are just slow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 30 July, 2020, 12:10:02 am
That sort of thing is a de-facto invitation to a Silly Commuter Race.  See FNRttS threads passim.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 30 July, 2020, 02:47:07 pm
I miss my commute. 

I built up a very nice ti croix de fer as a new commuter and managed about 4 commutes before lockdown.  We've since been told this is the new norm. :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 30 July, 2020, 08:15:07 pm
Mrs P has been making me get up for a ~hour long 'commute' in the mornings. I get a reprieve if it's raining or too windy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cygnet on 31 July, 2020, 08:55:26 pm
Quote from: Pingu on 30 July, 2020, 08:15:07 pm
Mrs P has been making me get up for a ~hour long 'commute' in the mornings. I get a reprieve if it's raining or too windy.

That's quite a sensible precaution against Covid Tum, that I should have and will endeavour to emulate.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 02 August, 2020, 11:54:13 pm
Quote from: Pingu on 30 July, 2020, 08:15:07 pm
Mrs P has been making me get up for a ~hour long 'commute' in the mornings. I get a reprieve if it's raining or too windy.

 :thumbsup:
I managed to do something similar in 2018 when I was contracting from home.  I seem to be crap at getting up earlier than about half 7 these days.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alexb on 07 August, 2020, 08:59:11 pm
I've been really enjoying what they've done to Bedford Hill in Balham recently. They've pedestrianised the section of road between the pub and the high road. All the restaurants have out their tables on the road and it's just a wonderful atmosphere. The fact that you can still bike straight through the middle of it is great.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 15 August, 2020, 03:02:30 pm
LJ16 YTD
When you arrive at a roundabout where a cyclist is waiting for traffic to clear, and the first exit is a petrol station, it is a fair bet that the cyclist is not going into the place.

When the cyclist pulls away slowly, because they are carrying four panniers of shopping from Tesco, pulling ahead with them feels more intimidating.

When you then turn left, straight across the cyclist, forcing her to do an emergency stop and nearly drop her bike, it is bloody terrifying for her.

When you are called a 'wanker' and, on your gender becoming apparent, a 'stupid fucking bitch' and told 'don't fucking overtake and then turn right', you are safe in assuming it is because you did a Bad and Stupid Thing.

Shouting back "Didn't you see my indicator?" may, under other circumstances, attract the reply "Under my right armpit, because you were so close when you put it on", but due to the stress caused by a near death experience, you can assume that her actual reply of "FUCKING OPEN YOUR EYES AND THINK!" is an acceptable alternative.

[also in 'motorised moron' board]
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 16 August, 2020, 11:12:46 am
^if you can summon the energy, reporting it to the police and getting cctv from the petrol station is an option.  Sadly this is made far too difficult.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Steph on 18 August, 2020, 06:10:46 pm
I can't be arsed with the inevitable "Yebbut, it's a private road".

She heard what I called her. She heard why. It pissed her off and spoiled her day. Not as badly as she could have spoiled mine, but hey, it's better than nothing.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 18 August, 2020, 07:01:10 pm
Yesterday morning I stopped at a traffic light and waited for the light to turn green. Apparently this was enough to get yelled at by a pedestrian spoiling for an argument. Yes, my front wheel was a bit in front of the line but it was either pull up there or ride through a red light. He abused me for riding on pedestrian areas. My reply of “I have stopped and this looks like a road to me” wasn’t the answer he was looking for. He was the only person walking across and was ten seconds from crossing the road when I put my foot down. Some people are just weird. It made me smile at least.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 18 August, 2020, 07:18:08 pm
I've had that, even when stopped behind the white line.

"You cyclists! Always running red lights blah blah blah!"

I think I just shrugged at him.

Most odd.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 18 August, 2020, 11:07:38 pm
Smile and wave boys, smile and wave.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 19 August, 2020, 10:06:38 am
Quote from: alexb on 07 August, 2020, 08:59:11 pm
I've been really enjoying what they've done to Bedford Hill in Balham recently. They've pedestrianised the section of road between the pub and the high road. All the restaurants have out their tables on the road and it's just a wonderful atmosphere. The fact that you can still bike straight through the middle of it is great.

Ah, I was just wondering whether you could still cycle down the middle as I'm going that way today and have seen the pics on twitter. Between that and the segregated path the Croydon end I won't know myself!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 20 August, 2020, 04:14:02 pm
First commute since before Easter, riding the DF fixed was at first exhilarating due to the height off the ground and the responsiveness to pedal pressure, but after far too few minutes my legs were wondering wtf I was up to with all this effort.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 20 August, 2020, 11:55:41 pm
Quote from: fd3 on 20 August, 2020, 04:14:02 pm
First commute since before Easter, riding the DF fixed was at first exhilarating due to the height off the ground and the responsiveness to pedal pressure, but after far too few minutes my legs were wondering wtf I was up to with all this effort.

 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 21 August, 2020, 02:30:57 am
Quote from: fd3 on 20 August, 2020, 04:14:02 pm
First commute since before Easter, riding the DF fixed was at first exhilarating due to the height off the ground and the responsiveness to pedal pressure, but after far too few minutes my legs were wondering wtf I was up to with all this effort.

In the olden days my legs somehow learned that upright=fixed and recumbent=gears.  Which led to confusion on the rare occasions that I used the Perfectly Good Gentleman’s Mountain Bicycle instead.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 21 August, 2020, 11:09:59 am
My legs have undergone the same learning - I also panic when I have to use actual brakes on the fixie.

Today was windy, I should have taken the SPM (but I don't like the inability to look round corners into busy roads combined with lack of proper acceleration to get across said junctions).

I have tried cross breeding the fixie and the SPM, but apparently bikes and biology don't mix in this way...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 26 August, 2020, 08:11:18 am
A tad breezy this a.m., with big road-hogging lumps of tree in a couple of places.



 I think our local supplier of motorised morons must have gone bust. I've not had to shout or gesticulate at anyone since February.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 26 August, 2020, 11:41:51 am
Yesterday,

A lovely day no one tried to race the fat bloke on the e-cargo bike nor commented that I was cheating.

Today

"Why don't you get a proper bike" - Some roadie

The difference, yesterday it was raining today it was nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Riggers on 27 August, 2020, 09:57:55 am
Quote from: davelodwig on 26 August, 2020, 11:41:51 am
Yesterday,

A lovely day no one tried to race the fat bloke on the e-cargo bike nor commented that I was cheating.

Today

"Why don't you get a proper bike" - Some roadie  "Really??? What a . . .<insert appropriate word of your choice here>. Perhaps he thought he was being funny?"

The difference, yesterday it was raining today it was nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 27 August, 2020, 10:06:43 am
Quote from: Riggers on 27 August, 2020, 09:57:55 am
Quote from: davelodwig on 26 August, 2020, 11:41:51 am
Yesterday,

A lovely day no one tried to race the fat bloke on the e-cargo bike nor commented that I was cheating.

Today

"Why don't you get a proper bike" - Some roadie  "Really??? What a . . .<insert appropriate word of your choice here>. Perhaps he thought he was being funny?"

The difference, yesterday it was raining today it was nice.



I work 10 - 6 generally so I seem to catch the chaps out for a training ride either in the morning, or evening who seem to take exception about me having a motor. I don't know why, it's not like i'm trying to race them, maybe they don't like my singing; perhaps I should take this cycling thing more seriously.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: markcjagar on 27 August, 2020, 03:07:32 pm
On my way home from work, a mere 1km ride I nearly got hit by a driver failing to give way at a roundabout. When I shouted at him he raised his hands as if to say "what did I do" fucking gammon... I'm finding it harder and harder to keep my cool in these situations.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 28 August, 2020, 12:27:06 am
Quote from: davelodwig on 27 August, 2020, 10:06:43 am
I work 10 - 6 generally so I seem to catch the chaps out for a training ride either in the morning, or evening who seem to take exception about me having a motor. I don't know why, it's not like i'm trying to race them, maybe they don't like my singing; perhaps I should take this cycling thing more seriously.

I've noticed the emergence of a new species during the recent e-bike boom:  The ones who take exception to me *not* having a motor.  Like, I have the audacity to go slightly faster than them, and I can't even afford a decent bike?!?

Seriously, people.  It's all good.   ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 01 September, 2020, 11:28:05 am
Bisley, narrow roads involving oncoming traffic having to give way to traffic in the restriction as per the sign.


Dear Mrs Car Driver

Did you think driving into the restriction which had a bicycle in it past the sign that said give way to oncoming traffic would end well for you.

Yes I called you a fucking idiot, that's because if you think about it (not that you can which is part of the problem) you are, also I did threaten to reduce your car to bit's you can take home in a carrier bag because winding your window down and revving your engine is the international sign of I'd like my car to be fucked up with a hammer please.

Also no I can't hear your moaning about why don't you pay tax because I'm wearing headphones of +6 don't give a fuck about your issues just look where you are fucking going.

Also chap in the car behind you can fuck off as well because you didn't even look either you just blindly followed which is why you ended up standing in a junction looking like a dickhead trying to fight someone who had already ridden off, no I don't need your advice you fat useless lazy fuck.

Did someone leave the gate of an idiot farm open somewhere near me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 01 September, 2020, 11:45:03 am
Quote from: davelodwig on 01 September, 2020, 11:28:05 am
Bisley, narrow roads involving oncoming traffic having to give way to traffic in the restriction as per the sign.


Dear Mrs Car Driver

Did you think driving into the restriction which had a bicycle in it past the sign that said give way to oncoming traffic would end well for you.

Yes I called you a fucking idiot, that's because if you think about it (not that you can which is part of the problem) you are, also I did threaten to reduce your car to bit's you can take home in a carrier bag because winding your window down and revving your engine is the international sign of I'd like my car to be fucked up with a hammer please.

Also no I can't hear your moaning about why don't you pay tax because I'm wearing headphones of +6 don't give a fuck about your issues just look where you are fucking going.

Also chap in the car behind you can fuck off as well because you didn't even look either you just blindly followed which is why you ended up standing in a junction looking like a dickhead trying to fight someone who had already ridden off, no I don't need your advice you fat useless lazy fuck.

Did someone leave the gate of an idiot farm open somewhere near me.
Sounds like the time I had cars driving at me through the roadworks as their light had gone green, so it didn't matter that I hadn't been able to get through yet they were going to go. I should have just stopped in the middle of the lane and waited for them to stop.

Roadworks light passing never allows for cyclists.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 18 September, 2020, 01:29:29 pm
Today after being closed passed to the point the wing mirror brushed my handlebars going through a restriction on the road; and yeah I may have flicked the bird.

Look captain Gammon, given I've just watched you take almost 5 minutes to get out of your car to remonstrate with me (and I did just think about riding off), what do you think will happen if you attempt to do the things you suggest you might to teach me a lesson.   I'm younger, fitter, and don't get out of breath standing up, plus I'm armed with a whopping kryptonite new york lock which will if I desire it introduce your teeth to the pavement without you. Then having stopped you from attacking me your precious car keys would be heading off for a holiday down the nearest drain cover, obviously I would have to turn off the shitty car with one bald tyre you've left running.

Thankfully given you had to have a little rest from talking too much, I told you to go fuck yourself and rode off. Flooring your car in first was funny though, it still sounded shit.

I fucking hate shitty gammon drivers.

D.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 21 September, 2020, 10:15:51 am
Cycling along Croydon road. Husband is behind me.

White van passes him, then toots and shouts at me while squeezing between me and oncoming traffic. I'm holding a secondary position because I've resolved to dive for the gutter less (I'm always reviewing how I ride and have been wondering if all the close passes I get can be prevented) and it seems he took issue with this, because my husband got no tooting or abuse.

It was ever so considerate of him to have a go at me and not my husband because guess which one of us runs cameras?

I can't be bothered to report every single close pass because round here they are just too common, but if drivers would like to make sure I do, then hooting and shouting is an excellent way to ensure I'll make time.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 03 October, 2020, 12:20:22 am
Wasn't half windy on the way home this pm.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Joe.B on 04 October, 2020, 09:16:52 pm
Not on the commute today but yesterday: 

Decided that the forecast warranted the use of the cape that I bought in the Aldi aisle of wonder some 10 years ago and then immediately forget all about until a colleague recently started using one on his Brompton.

Not bad at all. During my 7 mile route home in torrential rain I had some water ingress around the neck but I think any outer layer would have leaked a bit in that weather.  Most impressive was the fact that the tops of my work trousers remained bone dry.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 14 October, 2020, 01:57:58 pm
My legs have submitted a formal grievance.  Not sure why, but they now consider that this whole commute thing is bullshit.  HR has filed their grievance in the bin and I have got the strike-breakers at hand but the situation gives me pause.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 20 October, 2020, 05:03:21 pm
I actually cycled to work today.
It seemed a bit hard. Saturdays 60-odd km and the 35mph winds might have had something to do with that.

(Internet connection at home is down to 0.5Mb download)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 22 October, 2020, 02:42:46 pm
Back commuting again on the bike. Once a week.

What a difference it makes. The route is horrible though due to civics works shutting the cycle route
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wobbly John on 02 November, 2020, 07:13:53 pm
Got to the first junction on the commute home today, and found I couldn't unclip my left (The foot I normally put down) shoe...  :o :o :o

I decided to head back to work where I could access lights and tools, but then I managed to get it released, sort of...  :facepalm:

(https://i.ibb.co/3zjVs5Z/IMG-2221.jpg)

(Photo taken when I had managed to lever the cleat and plate out of the pedal after getting home)  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 02 November, 2020, 07:19:35 pm
I think that one is a goner!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wobbly John on 02 November, 2020, 08:04:05 pm
Oh well - I can remember wearing them when doing the 'Cycling Plus jersey relay"...  :o

How long ago was that?  ::-)

...and they are not even my oldest, or most frequently used cycling shoes (I was using the first SPD shoes I bought in 1988, every day this year, up to Lockdown Version 1)  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 02 November, 2020, 08:14:01 pm
I have a picture of the jersey dated June 2005.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wobbly John on 03 November, 2020, 07:51:55 pm
Quote from: Pingu on 02 November, 2020, 08:14:01 pm
I have a picture of the jersey dated June 2005.

I thought we had all migrated to ACF by then...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 03 November, 2020, 08:16:44 pm
Quote from: Wobbly John on 03 November, 2020, 07:51:55 pm
Quote from: Pingu on 02 November, 2020, 08:14:01 pm
I have a picture of the jersey dated June 2005.

I thought we had all migrated to ACF by then...

Probably, I meant it would've been before that date.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chris S on 04 November, 2020, 11:35:56 am
Quote from: Wobbly John on 02 November, 2020, 07:13:53 pm
(https://i.ibb.co/3zjVs5Z/IMG-2221.jpg)

Heh. #1 son managed to do something like that once, when grimping a fixed gear bike up a hill in Belgium. On an upstroke, he tore the cleat clean out of the sole of his shoe, leaving it behind in the pedal still attached to a bit of shoe.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 05 November, 2020, 01:01:17 pm
Monday: hmmm, tyres seem squashy...
Tuesday morning: check pressure, <10PSI @ the rear and a couple PSI (not measurable on the scale) at the front.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 06 November, 2020, 06:24:54 pm
Did what will probably be my last commute of the year on Wednesday.  Only went into London as I had a pre-booked flu jab organised through my firm.  Traffic was diabolical on the way back, everyone seemed to be heading out to celebrate their 'last night of freedom' in close proximity to other people doing the same'.  Richmond Park was almost deserted at 6.45pm.  Too many temporary traffic lights on the way back plus the usually suffering on the Machiavellian traffic lights on the A30 through Camberley that are clearly designed to persuade car drivers that they should be on the M3 meant that the cold got into my legs.  That meant I was racing snails past Blackbushe Airport.  The descent of Star Hill somehow sparked me back into life and I was home right on the margin of what I'd promised Mrs CET, which I'd thought was a hopeless conservative estimate.  However, will be up for doing it again at the first opportunity of lockdown lifting.  The ability to actually walk past a desk and have a random conversation with a colleague rather than a video image was more than worth the long slow ride home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 06 November, 2020, 07:07:57 pm
That brought back some memories. It's three years since I last did pretty much the same commute (surprised it was so long ago - I just checked on my GPS logs), six since I was doing it regularly. It's a surprisingly nice ride, just a bit long to be doing it every day. Very good for keeping fitness up though!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 07 November, 2020, 07:41:39 pm
 Cycling home in the dark, thinking my light was no good and I need an upgrade.  Then I noticed it was pointed directly at the front tyre.  Much better now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 09 November, 2020, 06:41:52 pm
25 miles cycled home in the dark, and pouring rain. At one point I think scuba gear would have been a better choice than a bike.

It wasn't too bad though, it wasn't cold apart from the last bit and my jacket, if not keeping me dry, at least kept the worst off. I need to order some more kit though as I don't think my jersey will quite be dry for tomorrow.

Hot bath tonight I think, my legs are feeling it and this is only day one of three in a row at the office.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 09 November, 2020, 07:50:40 pm
Dark and damp ride home (I drove in and abandoned my car there). It was only spitting rain, but the roads were wet so I was getting a bit of spray on my feet that got around my mudflap. It was my first ride in the dark for ages as well as first commute. It was very pleasant, with drivers being courteous and careful on overtakes. I was lucky that I only ended up with damp shoes, not wet feet, as I'd forgotten my overshoes to keep spray off. Surprisingly fast too, even though I wasn't pushing hard - only slightly slower than normal commutes pre-accident.
Out of saddle climbs are still a challenge, I'm not so much Fred Astaire dancing lightly on the pedals as Bez (from Happy Mondays).

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 13 November, 2020, 12:22:54 pm
Today's was notable for its smoothness and efficiency without use of a car. My usual commute in company van is on the A12 which they've shut for roadworks. Fearing chaos decided to let the train take the strain with folding bike either end.

Left home 0700, made it onto 0709 train when was expecting to get a later one but train was so quiet didn't matter I had to fold the bike once on. Think train journey was about 12 minutes then a cycle other end to roll up to work at 0737. The bulk of the ride was on very quiet shared use paths till these had too many dismount signs so onto wide road for a bit till bus lanes became available when I had my own personal lane

If only greener transport options were always this seamless
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 13 November, 2020, 02:26:11 pm
Quote from: Johnny Faro on 13 November, 2020, 12:22:54 pm
If only greener transport options were always this seamless
Amen.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 16 November, 2020, 11:25:57 am
Slept badly so was ahead of myself and had to wait for the train this morning which was 3 minutes delayed but then found a bus lane I could use which saved me most of that back on the from station to work cycle. Think I might be missing something with the actual cycle paths but roads plenty wide enough to just go on if needed


On the way home Friday flying along in a bus lane that ends but it has a massive dropped kerb straight onto the cycle path. It's actually like someone knew what they were doing
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 17 November, 2020, 08:46:36 am
Riding like a god with a nice tail wind on the A264 dual carriageway, I clock a 4 x 4 off my right shoulder.  Good stuff, he's hanging back to get a wide pass.  After a few seconds he pulls past me, not very wide after all. And, I guess, forgets he's towing a GBFO trailer. The sort that is as wide, if not wider than the towing vehicle.

Dear readers, it was  >< this close to me, or so it seemed. Loud BAd Swears rent the air and I unleashed my inner Cavendish to try to chase him down but he got away. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 17 November, 2020, 10:05:25 am
I had that once, and was then struck by a stray branch poking out on my side of the trailer.

However,my Cav was sufficiently fast and I caught the twat up and gave him a mouthful.

He was suitably (and surprisingly) contrite.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 17 November, 2020, 10:06:50 am
Quote from: Tim Hall on 17 November, 2020, 08:46:36 am
Riding like a god with a nice tail wind on the A264 dual carriageway, I clock a 4 x 4 off my right shoulder.  Good stuff, he's hanging back to get a wide pass.  After a few seconds he pulls past me, not very wide after all. And, I guess, forgets he's towing a GBFO trailer. The sort that is as wide, if not wider than the towing vehicle.

Dear readers, it was  >< this close to me, or so it seemed. Loud BAd Swears rent the air and I unleashed my inner Cavendish to try to chase him down but he got away.
I feel your pain. A right git decided this morning that I didn't need more than 2 inches so the two of us could certainly squeeze between the kerb and bollards. angryface.

Oh, and what about the close overtake which then evolves into a wide enough pass when it's 5 yards too late, hmm? The one that makes me think the driver only saw me as they drew level, suggesting they might not have been looking at the road? angryangryface.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 18 November, 2020, 09:19:13 pm
4 way traffic lights, I have green the cars from the left have are on red, it's just going amber for me so red left for another two cycles.  Loon overtakes waiting cars, nearly takes out two pedestrians and bansais towards oncoming traffic.
First time in three years I wished I had a helmet cam.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 27 November, 2020, 09:09:36 am
Another extended weekend of A12 closure so letting the train take the strain again. After walking the hound this morning decided that I'd stick to roads and bus lanes rather then the much more scenic river side route to station and cycle paths from station as rather icy

Rather chilly but realised I shouldn't be on phone on train as was beautiful as the mist cleared across the frozen fields. Getting my unfold and station prep better, screen shot of ticket QR code is much quicker then opening the ap.

The short ride from the station was colder and slower ten it should be but both are signs I'm just rather tired at the moment but rolling into work for a got cup of tea is still much more fun then getting stuck in traffic
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 27 November, 2020, 10:11:10 am
I think it was more "refreshingly brisk" than "a bit nippy".  Helped me wake up!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 27 November, 2020, 10:17:47 am
Is refreshingly brisk closer to brass monkeys then a bit nippy or is it the other way round. Either way it was invigorating
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 29 November, 2020, 04:36:28 pm
I'd say refreshing, invigourating, a bit nippy, bracing, brass monkeys - but not sure what the SI standard is.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 29 November, 2020, 04:56:55 pm
I think when it's cold SI stands for shrinking index if you get my drift
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 01 December, 2020, 08:22:52 pm
An hour and ten minutes to "fix" a puncture.

I have never had so much trouble. First I discovered I couldn't get the wheel out without undoing the mudguard stays. That was after I eventually unhooked the Nexus hub cable. It was at this point that I remembered I have a pair of latex gloves in the bag, too late by then.

I happened to have my "goto" tyre levers in the tool kit on this bike. Well one snapped, I wouldn't mind but it's not like they were brittle from the cold because up to that point both were bending into a j-shape round the rim. So one bendy lever and one short lever. And much swearing.

I eventually got the tyre off. It had gone from sunlight to dark by this point. And could I find what caused the puncture? Could I bollocks! Hell I couldn't even find the hole in the tube. I didn't think valve problem because I had heard a hiss through the outer tyre before I took the wheel out.

Decided to stick a fresh tube in and see how far I got. My back up plan being to phone my Mum and ask for a lift. Pumped it up, the pump wasn't working awfully well so that needs looking at. And then found/remembered that the wheel won't clear the brakes with the tyre inflated so I got to let the air out and then reinflate. Huzzah.

By this time I was cold and fed up so I decided to zip (motor turned up to 11) via Berwick station and see how long a wait for a train. I pulled into the platform as a train pulled in so at least something went right.

So three hours to get home with only 17 miles cycled. Ah well, at least it wasn't raining or that cold.

I pumped the old tube up when home and the hole is quite a way further round than the hiss I heard so I was concentrating on the wrong place. Don't want to use that bike tomorrow till I can have the tyre off again and have a proper look for intruders. But I'm not doing that now, I'm tired and the light in the bike fettling room (kitchen) isn't great.

I guess take a different bike or get the train boths ways. I'd like to just work from home but there's stuff what needs doing and tomorrow is the best weather of the rest of the week.

A very long moan for not much substance but I'm sure you'll forgive my frustrated grumbling.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 02 December, 2020, 07:07:27 pm
The Richmond Park deer are making the traffic-free evening end of my commute a more nerve-wracking affair than usual. After a couple of days of fog, which makes the deer nervous and more prone to random dashing across the road, now they are given to standing in the road in the dark bits licking the salt.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 07 December, 2020, 10:48:32 pm
FOG
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 08 December, 2020, 06:07:29 pm
COLD
Considering something warmer than a gore one - possibly a gillet over the top or a cheaper, warmer jacket.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 08 December, 2020, 06:31:21 pm
Like Ashaman above. Tyre goes flat. Pull over, kit out and try to get the tyre off. I snap a lever. I've never done that but this rim is wider. It's a slow puncture luckily so pump the tyre and I get the last 2 miles. Later go to remove the wheel but forget something and then trap my finger twixt chain and ring. Fixed gear!!! Change the tube later at home but stop halfway to pump the tyre. Same issue this am. Obviously something deep in the tyre which I think I have now got out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 10 December, 2020, 06:15:39 pm
On the ride home I've started noticing riders with no lights - at least they have helmets ...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cygnet on 11 December, 2020, 10:37:08 pm
Motorcyclists?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 17 December, 2020, 10:17:37 pm
Another puncture. Within 100m of the last one.

Still this one the source was obvious, a bit of flint the size of my little finger nail. My tyres are towards the tougher end of the spectrum but I'm not sure anything but solids would have shrugged this wee spearhead off.

As I knew exactly where the hole was and could see the cause was out I decided to try the old tease out a section of tube and patch in place so as to avoid taking off the mudguard and detaching the hub gear. I had some self stick patches and I even remembered the latex gloves before I got mucky. I did try sticking a second patch onto the inside of the outer hole but I missed, oh well.

I'm still slow but twenty minutes is much better than the over an hour last time. Got some air into it and couldn't hear a hiss so I set off hoping I wouldn't be stopping again in five minutes.

Well it got me home. Pumped up with the track pump when I got in, it only had ~40psi in it at that point but I don't know how much I put in by the roadside so I'll check the drop in the morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 05 January, 2021, 04:46:01 pm
Popped in to work to get some stuff for lockdown teaching.  Roads nice and quiet (it was gone 9am though but).  I hesitated about taking the SPM but went for it.  Discovered I feel like I am going slower than I actually am (according to the speedometer) and welcomed not needing to lug stuff on my back.  Also, new bar setup allows me to sit up/forward for intersections!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 28 January, 2021, 08:06:39 pm
I’m worried that I’m becoming Mr. Shouty Cyclist, from time to time, as I vent my frustration. This is unproductive in every way. I need to ride my bike like this guy drives his car:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9FEO-XKo4cw
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Chopper on 16 February, 2021, 01:40:43 pm
Which pro team rides Merida bikes and has red team cars? One of their broom wagon drivers had a good try at running me off the road on the ride home yesterday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DuncanM on 18 February, 2021, 09:57:05 am
Quote from: Chopper on 16 February, 2021, 01:40:43 pm
Which pro team rides Merida bikes and has red team cars? One of their broom wagon drivers had a good try at running me off the road on the ride home yesterday.
Bahrain?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 17 March, 2021, 09:56:21 pm
On the way home tonight I arrived at a 3 exit mini roundabout at the same time the other two exits got occupied. Everyone was going to their 2nd exit so the usual standoff began, each watching (or so I thought) each. After a few seconds I decided to break the stalemate, sadly at the same time as the driver to my right. this put them on a collision course with me, so I went for plan B, my first exit, which was the one they were taking, and then pulled into the curb. I reckon they hadn't seen me/hadn't looked.  The punishment swerve as the went by me was a bit uncalled for I thought.

I think I need to sharpen my observation skills a tad though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 27 March, 2021, 10:35:16 am
Took the SPM to work yesterday as lugging stuff.  On the way in I was sure the speedometer was wrong, no way 10mph is this much effort.  On the way home I was sure the speedometer was wrong, no way am I spinning out at 25mph.  Speed cameras assure me that my speedometer is working.

Also, mini roundabout joy. Driver signalling to turn left, I don’t believe him, he goes straight through (where I would have been had I believed the lying liar).  As I am stopped I watch the next two cars drive at random through the roundabout, using different random signalling.  Next motorist who says anything to me about my signalling can FRO.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 30 March, 2021, 08:40:14 am
Nothing wrong with my observation skills this morning. Those beloinging to the driver of a blue Fiesta, NL55EJ  could do with some work though. I'm progressing gently up an incline in the left lane of a dual carriageway, hands on the hoods, when Thwack! the  knuckle on my right hand little finger takes a glancing blow from the wing mirror ofg the above mentioned motor as it zips past at about 40 mph.  Bad Swears were uttered.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 30 March, 2021, 09:12:50 am
 :o 'Kin 'ell!
Close passes thread?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 30 March, 2021, 09:46:26 am
Quote from: Jurek on 30 March, 2021, 09:12:50 am
:o 'Kin 'ell!
Close passes thread?
I didn't say hello to them, so I would/wouldn't be allowed in that thread. I've just filed an Operation send to the camps for reeducation Crackdown report though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 12 April, 2021, 09:55:31 am
Had to tap into my inner Andy Hampsten and Bernard Hinault today, it was so wintry on the Col du Jolly Farmer on the way in.  First commute in this year and hopefully the most horrible weather.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 12 April, 2021, 11:03:03 am
Bloody freezing. Ice cream headache for the first five miles and just as I started to warm up it started snowing!

By the time I'd done the full 26 miles I could hardly feel my toes or fingers. Could have done with a warm hat too.

Ah well, it's meant to be warmer at least for the way home.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 12 April, 2021, 11:21:56 am
I expected it to be cold. I didn’t expect it to start drizzling but OK. I really didn’t expect it to start snowing! Hopefully it will be nicer heading home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 15 April, 2021, 10:41:29 am
Another close pass on the A264 dual carriageway today. No deviation from their line at all as far as I could make out.

I'm getting pissed off with this. There is an alternative route but it's longer and "scenic". As lockdown eases there's more motorised traffic around, but I think I'll start getting up earlier to use the longer route.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 15 April, 2021, 10:45:13 am
Strap a garden fork perpendicularly across your rack ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PeteB99 on 15 April, 2021, 03:46:28 pm
Quote from: hatler on 15 April, 2021, 10:45:13 am
Strap a garden fork perpendicularly across your rack ?

For a while I attached an old ski pole across the rack. Unable to devise a cheap quick release mechanism that didn't release over speed bumps though.

Eventually wiped it off when I misjudged a stupid cyclepath gate.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 15 April, 2021, 09:49:33 pm
Had a bolus of cars come past me on the way in, second from last leaving far less room than the others, he got a "what the hell?!" wave. Last car decided leaning on the horn as he went past was reasonable. It's not like there was even anything oncoming to stop them giving me room.

Idiots.

I'm wondering about using the machine shop to make a bar mounted blunderbuss full of nuts and bolts.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 15 April, 2021, 10:16:01 pm
So I had a stab at an optimised (looked at map, drew a straightish line) route that went the hilly way this evening. Tracked it with Osmand. 1h 6m, average speed 23.9kmh-1. And despite a short section on the A23 up towards Pease Pottage, almost serenely quiet.  Of course going home has more descent than ascent (281m vs 216m),so I'll have to suck that up in the morning, but It's worth it I reckon.  It'll be interesting to see how much the long (FSVO long) drag to the midway summit slows me down.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 16 April, 2021, 04:09:38 pm
I cycled in to the office for only the second time this year. Then everyone but me and the organiser of the meeting I was there for didn't turn up, because they thought it would be on MS Teams :facepalm:

Nice day for a ride in though. The organiser apologised for making me ride in for a cancelled meeting, and I actually pointed out I was missing my daily commute to work, even if someone's been making the hills bigger in my absence.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Guy on 26 April, 2021, 07:55:02 am
Nothing special to report other than it was my first time on a bike since last September. I finally managed to wrestle the brane weasels into a box and shut them up. I rode the bridleway I've been walking for the past seven months, mainly to avoid having to ride up Sodding-Great-Hill-With-Added-Speed-Humps into a biting head wind. Instead, I had to put up with the civvy version - Sodding-Great-Hill-With-Added-Loose-Gravel-And-Deep-Soft-Sand into a biting head wind :facepalm:.

On the plus sid, it felt good to be riding again. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 26 April, 2021, 09:57:53 pm
I decided to try the shortcut through the woods on my electric bike.

Nooooope, won't do that again. Far too skittery. And since modifying my road route it only saves me a mile or so instead of the three it used to so time wise it comes out about even.

Though it does mean I can avoid crossing a rush hour A22 dual cabbageway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 28 April, 2021, 09:47:11 am
Rain.
Waterproof top - dry
Waterproof overtrousers - dry
Overshoes - appear to have sucked up all the water and deposited it in my socks, must have wetter feet than had I just ridden in without the overshoes!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 28 April, 2021, 11:18:23 am
I assume you did put your overshoes underneath your trousers so water running down you legs didn't just run inside them?

I have a pair of really nice Shimano Goretex mountain bike boots (MT90?) that are like leather walking boots with a decent sole and a cleat fitting. But the only way I found to stop them filling up with water when it rained was to wear walking gaiters over the top of them.
They ended up being relegated to cold/dry weather boots.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 29 April, 2021, 01:16:56 pm
Dressed for January (appropriate for temperature), leaves on trees like it was late April.  Decided to ride in the summer route via Old Woking rather than let the Prince of Darkness programmed traffic lights in Camberley get under my skin and was rewarded by every traffic light from Putney to Parliament Square being against me. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 01 May, 2021, 11:03:47 am
White van must have broken down, needing a push start.  Driver coasts along slowly, then takes a left into traffic with cars oncoming (because he couldn’t restart could he, natch).  I would have thought breakdown lights and honking your horn would be apropos at this point, especially if you are driving past a nursery.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 10 May, 2021, 07:01:25 pm
Could have done without the horn-leaning, sweary, aggressive bully of a van driver.

Apparently waiting to turn right at a crossroads, if I can't turn immediately because of oncoming traffic I should: Teleport out of the way/turn right into the traffic/go straight on even though that's not where I want to go.

Heaven forbid he have to wait for all of ten seconds. I bet if I'd been in a car he'd have just waited.

But apparently I should follow the highway code

And I was having such a lovely ride up to that point.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 11 May, 2021, 01:08:04 pm
I've not commuted by bike for a couple of weeks. Wheeled the bike out of my Asgaard store. The back wheel wouldn't turn properly, something seemed to be jammed between the tyre and the mudguard. 

It was a snail.

A sign of something I feel.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 11 May, 2021, 11:59:00 pm
It's making up for the lack of camping.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: andyoxon on 17 May, 2021, 10:37:23 pm
Proper heavy thunder shower on the way back today.  Cycling shoes filled up with water pretty quick.  I seem to be making a habit of riding in the rain - actually quite enjoyed it today.    Just one entitled driver using their carn horn, because I wasn't on the dual use path on the other side of the road, and so delaying them for a millisec.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Joe.B on 19 May, 2021, 09:00:55 am
I’ve had two returning home after work rides in the past couple of weeks were it has absolutely chucked it down.  The odd thing is that on both occasions, at 18:30 riding 3 miles through Newcastle, I wasn’t overtaken by a single vehicle, which is defiantly not normal.  I understand that many people walking or cycling might defer or cancel a journey if they are going to get soaked but why the absence of cars? They’re in a blooming sealed box.   

Nice to have clear roads though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 24 May, 2021, 05:58:17 pm
Double does of same [expletive] driver.  The reason I stopped was because kids were crossing the road, driving up next to me when there isn't space for two vehicles or space for you to overtake me is bad driving.  Yes, I got through the intersection as a pedestrian, next time if you want to go faster pick up and shoulder your van, I am, however now approaching you from a main road and have priority - so pulling out on me is bad driving.  You [expletive].
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 11 June, 2021, 09:29:11 am
Turning right this am on a fltered light, I make the turn and find an Audi ( no surprise) on my left and underrtaking me on the inside! He forces the undertake drives off and 10 secs later makes a left turn and pulls over for whatever reason. he and I then have a discussion about why he would do that. Apparently he had space to do it!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 11 June, 2021, 09:35:56 am
Taxi driver this morning. Pulls past the give way line and blocks the cycle lane, he can't go anywhere as there are cars coming from both directions anyway. So I swing round his bow with a "what the hell" wave. To which I get sworn at.

Bellend. Saved him no time at all and just caused me a (admittedly slight) hindrance.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tynan2 on 11 June, 2021, 01:21:37 pm
Stoke Newington High Road aka the A10, three and four and even five point U turns  in moving traffic are all the rage, a car trying to U turn was blocking most of the road bar the bus lane with me and a dozen cyclists behind me, the car in the main lane decided it was clear to make a wide turn into the bus lane without signal or apparently mirror, I saw it coming and braked to the point that I stopped where the car and the curb met, at this point they had belatedly stopped, although all the potential dammge was done. I was delighted to see the passnger window open so I could say, fairly cheerfully, 'wow, fucking hell'.

A bemused look and not a word from the driver and then they sped away.

And the golden sound of the cyclist behind me guffawing in delight at the driving.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 28 June, 2021, 04:16:32 pm
Game of two halves:
* Vaxhaull driver driver (I know, it starts badly, but read on) on major road realises that the pedestrian crossing lights have changed (offset, a little way along from the intersection), so lets all the cars turning right and all traffic going in the perpendicular go first.   :thumbsup:
* Member of Rowheath bowls club calmly follows me, #1 son and #2 son, but finally decides that enough is enough and he must overtake me at a bend with a van parked in the road in the other lane.  I brake hard and shout, he stops to tell me that I don't pay road tax, I write a letter to council, people who run the bowling club and people who run the park to ask that the bowling club not be allowed access on/off the park during school drop-off.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: telstarbox on 30 June, 2021, 07:24:41 pm
Did an occasional commute from my newish work home on Friday evening which is about 50km (hence occasional). Mentioned it in passing and now one guy keeps going on about it being a huge effort!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 30 June, 2021, 07:27:32 pm
If it's 50km each way then that is an effort by most people's standards.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: telstarbox on 01 July, 2021, 01:14:05 pm
Maybe I'm too dyed in the Audax wool, but I think most people who can ride a bike could survive a 50? :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 01 July, 2021, 03:18:01 pm
Quote from: telstarbox on 01 July, 2021, 01:14:05 pm
Maybe I'm too dyed in the Audax wool, but I think most people who can ride a bike could survive a 50? :)
I often say towards the end of an audax,  when feeling tired,  "only 50km to go,  anyone can ride 50km"

Still a very long commute though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tynan2 on 02 July, 2021, 02:43:54 pm
Quote from: Wycombewheeler on 01 July, 2021, 03:18:01 pm
Quote from: telstarbox on 01 July, 2021, 01:14:05 pm
Maybe I'm too dyed in the Audax wool, but I think most people who can ride a bike could survive a 50? :)
I often say towards the end of an audax,  when feeling tired,  "only 50km to go,  anyone can ride 50km"

Still a very long commute though.

Dunno, doing a 21 mile round commute now which I consider normal and for the first six months of last year I rode to Shepherds Bush which was a 31 mile round trip which is 50km, an hour and a half each way, it did not seem that big a deal after the first couple of trips, just a bit further.

As an aside the last mile as you reached Shepherds Bush proper there is a roundabout and a one way system like Mad Max, four lanes of one way high speed mayhem, like the council just gave up on cyclists.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 02 July, 2021, 07:17:27 pm
To many people commuting over an hour is ?
To many people cycling is ?

My longest commute was just short of 20 miles a day, most people I talked to thought I was batshit crazy. (It did involve a three lane roundabout echoing your Mad Max.  The best commute was when it had snowed and all the cars were crawling).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: chrisbainbridge on 02 July, 2021, 07:57:40 pm
My normal commute is 20km to work and 25-30 on the way home. Usually done on really quiet roads but I start a bit later these days and the extra traffic is notable.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Feanor on 02 July, 2021, 08:03:02 pm
Quote from: telstarbox on 30 June, 2021, 07:24:41 pm
Did an occasional commute from my newish work home on Friday evening which is about 50km (hence occasional). Mentioned it in passing and now one guy keeps going on about it being a huge effort!

At my former workplace, I tried to do a once or twice a week cycle commute of 60k each way.
It took about 2:40 each way.

I didn't manage twice most weeks, and once was often enough most weeks.

In the winter, I had to adjust my route to avoid high ground, and that involved a partial drive then ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 12 July, 2021, 05:58:39 pm
Just rode through the heaviest rain I have ever experienced, around about 4.30 - 5 in west London. The sort of rain where I become concerned that drain covers will lift and I’ll get sucked in and end up washed up somewhere around Tilbury. It’s still ongoing here in TW1 but not as bad as it was. Started about 0.1 seconds after getting on the bike at work :(

Worst bit was on the A205 not far from Putney. I was thinking “this river crossing the road seems rather brown”. That thought was followed very shortly afterwards by “this brown river is very smelly indeed”  :facepalm:

Deepest bit was on Danebury Avenue, between the Alton school and Priory Lane. Wasn’t expecting that. Amazingly, the e-bike remained electrified throughout.

I haven’t seen any local news yet but I suspect some damage is being caused out there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 12 July, 2021, 06:37:57 pm
The BBC Londonton news is still talking about the aftermath of the foopball but the national forecast mentioned flash floods in London’s famous London.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 12 July, 2021, 06:52:43 pm
I’m surprised at the lack of Twittering on the matter. I’d be very surprised if that storm had not caused a lot of people to get flooded out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 12 July, 2021, 06:57:11 pm
Beeb has finally mentioned it.  Usual crop of witless simp drivers drowning their vehicles under railway bridges.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 12 July, 2021, 07:20:44 pm
Just down the road from me - https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-57805391
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 12 July, 2021, 08:47:29 pm
A wet ride home through West London. First ride in a month, welcome back!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 12 July, 2021, 09:06:37 pm
I commuted to work on Friday, first time since March 2020.

Set off much earlier than usual (I had an appointment at 8) and had the roads pretty much to myself. Almost delightful, apart from the abomination that is some of the covid-inspired additional 'cycle facilities' installed en (some of the) route. They strike me as significantly less convenient and much less safe than what was there before.

(And today I got a note from HR saying that someone else in the office on Friday tested positive over the weekend. Bloody hell.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 12 July, 2021, 09:08:47 pm
I was out in that, albeit in a car. Went into central London for the first time in many months, two of us drove in together rather than risk the train; I was considering the motorbike then decided against as because I was going in to see a customer I wouldn't have anywhere to change if I got a soaking.

Crawled towards the Hammersmith Flyover as there was a flood at the base of that so single file traffic. Then lots of floods going down the 316 towards Twickenham. Took about half an hour to half a mile towards the roundabout by Twickenham school, as the road was badly flooded over the River Crane.
We only saw one broken down vehicle though, and that wasn't in a particularly flooded area (so not likely to have taken in water and stopped shortly afterwards).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 13 July, 2021, 09:18:27 am
I can't point to anything specific but that was a really nice ride in.

26 miles in almost sunshine and all is right with the world.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tynan2 on 18 July, 2021, 11:24:58 am
Not sure where to put this, was looking for some crochet leather palmed mitts, had a beautiful pair in world champ stripes a long time ago until the dryer buggered  the leather, no joy at my price point but these seem to good to be true, £4 for leather, delivered? They seem to be for sale with quite a few sellers too. Arrive Wed, what could be wrong with them?

Unisex Real Leather Cycling Gloves Padded Palm Classic Vintage Style Cycle Glove       
SKU: Style: 157, Size: XL
Total: £3.99

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/123934798211 (https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/123934798211)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 18 July, 2021, 05:59:43 pm
Is that a strange place for the thumb?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tynan2 on 19 July, 2021, 09:56:31 am
mmm, it does seem a bit too good to true, they arrive wed, I will give a short review, if my thumbs are able to type
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 19 July, 2021, 06:14:26 pm
Can we have cool autumn days now, please?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 20 July, 2021, 01:15:53 pm
On annual leave atm, but have been using the bike for the school run as it's too hot to walk!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peat on 22 July, 2021, 09:44:52 am
Rode into work yesterday, blissful ride in at 0630.

Paid the Piper on the 1600 return. Sank a whole bidon in 30mins. The heat felt like it was sucking the moisture out of me via my mouth and throat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 23 July, 2021, 04:49:45 pm
Lovely ride home; the others had to leave the office early so once I'd done stuff that could only be done there I left rather than be invoking the lone worker protocols. Which meant I had time to go the long way home, including some mild off-roading on paths I only discovered recently that happen to be part of the King Alfreds Way route. Popping out from that onto a little country, I was a bit worried to see road closure signs, but when I actually got there it was specifically open to cyclists, with good sized chicane gaps that would stop a car but very easily let me through without being remotely tight. Almost as though whoever set it up was thinking about what they were doing!
It's been far too long since I had time to do a long way home ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 24 July, 2021, 06:32:51 pm
Yesterday evening, heading home from work, I was waiting patiently at the lights (because I'm a good boy) heading southbound from Parliament Square to Westminster Bridge, when a chap came past me on a beach cruiser, with a small companion. I just had to get my camera out and take a picture as I caught up with him a bit further on...


(https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/51329962462_c9169473c4_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mcRtwN)
Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2mcRtwN) by citoyen (https://www.flickr.com/photos/103760266@N08/), on Flickr

(it's actually a 2-second video clip - you have to click on it to watch it)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 24 July, 2021, 07:07:19 pm
I sometimes ride with our dog, an almost-blind Shih Zhu (genetic issue rather than being particularly old), in a backpack. It's designed for dogs, so it has a hard base, mesh side panels, and a clip for his harness. He can curl down and sleep in it, or as I'm leaning forward whilst riding he can lie up my back, with his head over my shoulder.

I call it my babe-magnet bag, as it gets me lots of attention from ladies young and old (dog is a bit of a cutie, looks just like a teddy bear) - to MrsH's amusement as she's normally with me if I'm riding with the dog.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 24 July, 2021, 10:43:27 pm
Yours sounds ok, MattH, but that thing in Citoyen’s photo just looks cruel.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 25 July, 2021, 09:27:50 am
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 24 July, 2021, 10:43:27 pm
Yours sounds ok, MattH, but that thing in Citoyen’s photo just looks cruel.

I wondered about that, and came to the conclusion it’s probably ok for short journeys. I can’t see that it would be doing any physical harm, so it comes down to the dog’s temperament. The one in the pic looked quite content, just taking in the world going by.

Mine would probably spend the whole journey barking at other cyclists. I can’t think how I would even get him into the harness.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 25 July, 2021, 05:41:06 pm
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 24 July, 2021, 10:43:27 pm
Yours sounds ok, MattH, but that thing in Citoyen’s photo just looks cruel.

I take his eagerness to get in, whether at the start of a trip or after a short break, as showing it to be OK from his point of view   :)
The trike arrangement is a bit better, with a large motorcycle pet carrier mounted on the rear rack so again he can pop his head out and talk to me or snuggle down, and less risk of an unintended off. But the trike is awkward to take with us in the camper.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Solocle on 26 July, 2021, 08:16:30 pm
Yesterday, cycling home from my parents' house.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qK0HPRoltCg (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qK0HPRoltCg)

 :sick:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 26 July, 2021, 08:27:41 pm
Wow! How was the MCyclist? It looked like s/he might have chosen the hedge over a head on with you, which is some mitigation for what looks otherwise like utterly moronic riding.

And how are you?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: DuncanM on 27 July, 2021, 02:16:59 pm
Holy moly that looked dangerous. When you turned around there was a car behind you, so even if they had avoided you and remained on the road, they might have ended up having a head-on with the car.
Hope you and they are OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: citoyen on 27 July, 2021, 02:28:13 pm
Quote from: Paul on 26 July, 2021, 08:27:41 pm
And how are you?

Relieved not to arrive at the bend half a second earlier, I would say.

I live in fear of this kind of thing happening on the road I live on - I've had a couple of near misses with cars coming round the blind bend towards me on the wrong side of the road, ignoring the double white lines.

Very glad to see you escaped unscathed, Solocle.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 28 July, 2021, 12:44:06 am
Quote from: MattH on 25 July, 2021, 05:41:06 pm
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 24 July, 2021, 10:43:27 pm
Yours sounds ok, MattH, but that thing in Citoyen’s photo just looks cruel.

I take his eagerness to get in, whether at the start of a trip or after a short break, as showing it to be OK from his point of view   :)
The trike arrangement is a bit better, with a large motorcycle pet carrier mounted on the rear rack so again he can pop his head out and talk to me or snuggle down, and less risk of an unintended off. But the trike is awkward to take with us in the camper.
Quote
On short and hilly trips, a well-conditioned dog may be completely fine with four-on-the-floor over several days. For longer distance, higher speeds, or multi-day trips, some sort of dog-carry option will be essential. Many folks with smaller dogs have had great success with front or rear baskets, and in some cases a backpack (see the Cargo Bike section for details about baskets). Others with a large breed or two dogs have towed two-wheeled trailers designed for use with children on wide tracks and roads.

Since we are riding mainly off-road, and Mira tips the scales at 19kg (45lbs), a Bob Yak (or similar) single-wheel trailer has worked well for us in the past. Trailers have some inherent drawbacks, so we have switched to a mid-tail bike with a longer wheelbase. Whichever type of carrier you choose, it’s imperative to pad the floor and walls well. The rough trails and hard-sided carrier could injure your dog. Wall/floor padding and a compact area that’s just big enough for the dog to curl up in will help to keep a dog safe and comfortable during long days on bumpy trails. Some dogs may prefer to stand up. Take care to avoid sudden turns or braking that may cause your dog to fall out.

The leash I use is the same for all setups (see Pacing and Tactics). This setup works while on the bike or while you’re walking beside and pushing the bike. After all, with bikepacking comes hike-a-bike.
https://bikepacking.com/plan/dogpacking-guide/
(https://bikepacking.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/dogpacking-2_3-768x512.jpg)

Not my commute...  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Solocle on 28 July, 2021, 08:36:42 am
Quote from: Paul on 26 July, 2021, 08:27:41 pm
Wow! How was the MCyclist? It looked like s/he might have chosen the hedge over a head on with you, which is some mitigation for what looks otherwise like utterly moronic riding.

And how are you?
He was conscious and in one piece, but it definitely looked painful. Basically the first thing I did was to call an ambulance, while moving to the entrance to the corner to flag down traffic.

It looked to me like he was keeping pace with the other rider, but he reported applying the brakes and nothing happening - it seems quite possible that he panicked and locked up, thus leading to the hedge.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: PaulF on 16 August, 2021, 01:29:39 pm
Did my first cycle commute into London for 9 years this morning; a lot has changed in terms of infrastructure. There's now an amazing segregated cycle lane along the embankment.

Still got lost on the way in and when I got to the office (haven't visited for 18 months) I went to the wrong floor!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 17 August, 2021, 10:44:10 am
First cycle commute for 3 months today.  Reason - no longer so busy that I (a) have time to go into the office and (b) even more time so I can commute by bike.  Always forget how nice it is to ride in London in August when there is no traffic.  Downside - with the benefit of a light tailwind, realised I could dip under a milestone time for my summer route in and so ended up interval training between traffic lights on the Embankment rather than riding at R1 as I normally do.  Will probably regret those intervals on the ride back.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 15 September, 2021, 12:00:44 pm
Fourth ride into the office this year; nearly wiped out by a driver not looking as he turned onto the culdescaccy bit of Quietway 1. I shouted, pedestrians shouted, contact avoided but not by much. About a once-per-year severity of incident, I'd say.

In theory I should be able to perform a confidence test for whether this is bad luck or evidence of significantly worse driving after all the lockdowns, but I'm a bit too shaken for statistics. Or have I lost my spidey-sense for lack of practice?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 15 September, 2021, 05:16:52 pm
Grief. I forgot to record my ride into work the other day. Only the second time in 18 months.

Nothing much to report really. I left after 9 so it was pretty quiet.

Just one twat to report. As I rolled up to the stop line at a set of lights with a chap stopped with his foot on the kerb, knobhead came past me on the inside and plonked himself exactly where I was about to be in the next second.

I'm happy to report that I haven't completely lost all fitness and strength.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 22 September, 2021, 05:26:47 pm
On the way home yesterday a motorist slowed down during the overtake, with plenty of space given, to inform me that I am a wanker.  I was confused because this wasn't lined to a punishment pass, not been waiting behind me, passed with plenty of space.  Probably they just know me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 22 September, 2021, 08:43:14 pm
Quote from: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 17 August, 2021, 10:44:10 am
First cycle commute for 3 months today.  Reason - no longer so busy that I (a) have time to go into the office and (b) even more time so I can commute by bike.  Always forget how nice it is to ride in London in August when there is no traffic.  Downside - with the benefit of a light tailwind, realised I could dip under a milestone time for my summer route in and so ended up interval training between traffic lights on the Embankment rather than riding at R1 as I normally do.  Will probably regret those intervals on the ride back.
First time I've seen R followed by a number other than 17. (which makes me think: We don't need this fastest groove thang)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 22 September, 2021, 10:02:27 pm
Quote from: fd3 on 22 September, 2021, 05:26:47 pm
…Probably they just know me.
I’m sure this can’t be true, but thanks for the chuckle.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peat on 28 September, 2021, 11:55:50 am
Started riding to work again now that traffic has returned to pre-covid levels. Also to conserve what little fuel I have in the car until 'this' all blows over.

I noticed that the way I drive to work is almost all accompanied by Shared use paths, usually empty, so I though I would give that a whirl on the bike.

In summary - They range from the depressing to down right dangerous.
Predictably, there are almost 3x the no. of yield points than If i rode on the road. Covered in glass and detritus. One classic stretch is just a raised pavement next to a relatively narrow NSL road, the hedge is so overgrown it snags at your handlebars while you try to squeeze past the oncoming lorries whose wing mirros overhang the pavement. That just ended when it came to a roundabout. Not even a 'Cyclists Dismount' sign. It just turned to grass/mud and left the rider to figure out where I was supposed to go next.

No revelations there. Just confirmed what I suspected. Unpleasant enough on a dry day. I don't want to imagine it is on a wet cold winter morning getting blined by headlights and doused in road spray from HGV's. Grim.  :-\
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Butterfly on 04 October, 2021, 07:21:00 pm
I started commuting for the first time in years last week. It was brilliant. I'd forgotten how much I enjoy a ride to and fro work, even in the pouring rain. Today I made the error of the river path instead of the really bumpy one along the side of the golf club. It was also bumpy, but also flooded and muddy with very narrow parts. I won't bother again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 04 October, 2021, 07:33:42 pm
River paths are seldom good for cycling IMO, though canal paths can be good. Good that you're enjoying commuting again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 05 October, 2021, 06:24:00 am
I fear yesterday's flooded road will have flooded again. And it's a good five mile diversion to get around.

Boo.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 06 October, 2021, 10:31:54 am
Used the winter route today.  Reminded me why I go the summer route, purely to avoid the sadistic traffic lights in Camberley that insist on being red despite the A30 being the main road and there being no traffic at all on the side roads.  Will probably spend my way back thinking of how to avoid that stretch of road and realising that it is not possible unless I use my summer route.

Or I can amuse myself by adding other names to the list:  Macchiavelli, Marquis de Sade, Camberley Town Planners....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 07 October, 2021, 08:58:53 pm
I rode past the aftermath of this earlier today. I went past at about 4.30 or so, and I couldn’t see any police there at that point, although a motorist and other cyclists had stopped to help.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CUu9tr-M4ww/?utm_medium=copy_link

Alex Richardson rides for Alpecin-Fenix. He is fortunate not to have been killed.

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FBHF6BpWEAQHMpY?format=jpg&name=900x900)





Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 07 October, 2021, 09:01:30 pm
FFS!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 07 October, 2021, 09:06:33 pm
Good grief. That's pretty scary.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 07 October, 2021, 09:07:34 pm
With only four gates in to the Park you'd like to think pinning down some CCTV wouldn't be too hard.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Canardly on 07 October, 2021, 09:09:12 pm
What to say. Awful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 07 October, 2021, 09:12:42 pm
As I rode by I asked if I could do anything to help - not knowing any better it simply looked as if someone had come off (badly - i could see a ripped-through jersey and road rash, although he was sitting up and talking).

Must admit I wondered how it could have happened along that stretch - my first guess was that it was deer-related, as I’ve had a few close shaves in the mornings over the past week or so due to stags randomly deciding to sprint across the road regardless traffic.

Can’t quite figure out how he was still by the roadside at 4.30 odd, with no police or ambulance there, when his post says the incident was around 3pm.

Quote from: hatler on 07 October, 2021, 09:07:34 pm
With only four gates in to the Park you'd like to think pinning down some CCTV wouldn't be too hard.

You’d think so, wouldn’t you? It would also allow the park to generate revenue catching all the unauthorised commercial vehicles as they rat-run through. But no. Royal Parks approach to traffic in the park is completely inexplicable.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 07 October, 2021, 09:28:30 pm
I hope the team give him a new bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 07 October, 2021, 09:35:48 pm
Suspect the robbers will be reviewing their methods once they realise the difficulties in shifting a probably unique team bike that has been dragged along the road for 100m.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 07 October, 2021, 09:39:51 pm
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 07 October, 2021, 09:12:42 pm
Can’t quite figure out how he was still by the roadside at 4.30 odd, with no police or ambulance there, when his post says the incident was around 3pm.
I presume he was waiting for his wife to collect him.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 07 October, 2021, 10:00:14 pm
Guess so, and the police had probably been and gone.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 08 October, 2021, 06:43:05 pm
Story has just made the BBC Londonton news, albeit briefly.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 08 October, 2021, 08:37:39 pm
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 07 October, 2021, 10:00:14 pm
Guess so, and the police had probably been and gone.

They'd probably gone back to the station to confer with their colleagues as to what the cyclist had done to bring this upon themselves.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 08 October, 2021, 08:47:43 pm
Subtle.
Dry.
Incisive.
But probably closer to the truth than any of us would be comfortable with.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimC on 08 October, 2021, 09:38:02 pm
Quote from: ian on 08 October, 2021, 08:37:39 pm
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 07 October, 2021, 10:00:14 pm
Guess so, and the police had probably been and gone.

They'd probably gone back to the station to confer with their colleagues as to what the cyclist had done to bring this upon themselves.

Their public response was to put out a list of 'things the public can do to protect themselves', very similar to their response to women's concerns about safety on the streets. I really think the Met need a damn good reaming session with a cluebat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 08 October, 2021, 10:05:37 pm
Indeed, it's a pattern of thinking that the police (and it's not just the Met, though they're the exemplar) seem only able – when forced – to confront on a case-by-case basis (and then often grudgingly). They'd do a lot better by starting from the assumption that it's not about what the victim did.

That's it in one sentence. If they could understand that they wouldn't need so many enquiries and several hundred-page reports. But as recent events made clear, they're not even close.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 08 October, 2021, 10:11:46 pm
There was similar attack and robbery the night before:

https://richmond.nub.news/n/outrage-as-second-cyclist-attacked-in-richmond-park-by-violent-gang
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 08 October, 2021, 11:29:19 pm
Dear god.  I wonder if this is the extremist wing of the Richmond Park Pedestrian Action Group ?   :-D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 09 October, 2021, 09:38:42 pm
Sounds like carrying a D lock for self defence is advisable. Maybe when the met find the thieving scum on the floor, they’ll ask what they did to merit arriving in that situation.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: aidan.f on 11 October, 2021, 07:06:42 pm
Dlock? The thieves had machetes! Just let them have the bike. Best thing would be a bike fitted with a tracker. .
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 11 October, 2021, 08:41:04 pm
https://richmond.nub.news/n/cyclists-attacked-by-machete-wielding-gang-offers-olive-branch

Personally I don’t think this was about resentment of people riding around on bikes but who am I to say.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 12 October, 2021, 09:59:43 am
Yes, they were misunderstood, they were taking the machete to their craft class for a bit of whittling when they became annoyed by seeing a cyclist.

I'd personally assume they were scooting around looking for something to rob. A bit dimwitted, given they're now got themselves a high profile, and if they've any residual sense I'd expect that bike is now at the bottom of a local canal or sawn into pieces. As they'll be finding, it's a lot less hassle to steal a locked bike and not one that's moving.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 12 October, 2021, 08:44:00 pm
So I'm happily riding home, well, not happily because of a very irksome afternoon at work. But I'm heading home...

Anyway, I'm riding home when I suddenly feel a thunk-a-dunk from the back wheel/through the saddle. Right, puncture I expect, great. So I hop off and squidge squidge the tyre. Seems ok, maybe a little low but not obviously flat. Decide to ride on and top up if needed. I'm most of the way home by now so it should be ok.

Shortly it's feeling a bit worse, have another look, and discover that, with a hand push, the rear wheel will do less than a revolution, it's hitting the brake pads on one side like woah! I have had spokes loose on this wheel before so figure that's happened again, slack off the brake and figure I'll deal with it when home. Luckily even with it still binding momentum and the motor forge ahead.

It took far too long once home (the lighting in the living room isn't great) to discover that no, the spokes are fine, the rim has split along the brake track for a good couple inches.  :facepalm: :facepalm: :facepalm: Fuck!

Made all the more annoying because I've been trying to work out which roller brakes will fit my hub for the last couple days partly to avoid the problem of rim wear and the associated muck that gets everywhere.

The only silver lining is I have to get the train the next couple days anyway as I have early/late labs and can't fit in the commute by bike and cover the labs.

Now I'm trying to work out what's compatible and what isn't and do I get a singlespeed wheel to tide me over or do I get a replacement hub geared wheel or just a rim and goddamn it I was meant to be choosing at leisure and not in a mad dash like this!!!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 13 October, 2021, 09:04:11 am
Tried a different route in today to avoid the evil traffic lights in Camberley.  Seemed to go OK except for the actually-properly-you-can't-get-through-even-on-a-bike road closed in Fleet.  Will suspend judgement until I do the return tonight as that descent into Lightwater was unseemly fast which suggest that it will be somewhat hard work in the other direction.  By the time I braved the threat of machete-wielding mopeds in Richmond Park, I was more worried that my overshoe-free feet were numb below the ankle.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 13 October, 2021, 04:29:04 pm
There was a reason why the Frimley - Lightwater - Windlesham - S'dale route was a slightly scenic route home but the commute in in the morning was always A30, A325 and yes I disliked fixed up and over the Jolly Farmer roundabout.

The even more scenic route was Frimley Green - Brookwood (down the pirbright bends) - Knaphill - Chobham - S'dale but that was strictly a summer evening and no rush to be home route.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 25 October, 2021, 10:27:34 am
Knocked off at a roundabout near Osterley House by a dozy driver this morning. So far, I've found a buckled front wheel (had to loosen off the front cantilever brake and centre the wheel to continue riding to work), dropped the chain (on fixed), torn handlebar tape, ripped-off mudflap, bent mudguards, bent bidon cage. No doubt other damaged stuff will become evident later, along with some more bruises and scrapes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 25 October, 2021, 12:58:29 pm
Glad it's not worse and that you are ok.  Did the driver stop?  More important that you're ok, obviously!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 25 October, 2021, 01:03:13 pm
Yes, they stopped and eventually provided details. I was rather loud but almost polite, considering the circumstances.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 25 October, 2021, 01:10:13 pm
I can imagine!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 25 October, 2021, 04:55:36 pm
Sorry to hear that LWaB.  It really sucketh.  Hope you are okay, sometimes the injuries to you take a day or two to show up.  Also, hope the driver covers your costs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 28 October, 2021, 01:27:42 pm
Today I rode my Moulton to work, my first cycle-commute since  Monday. Moulton because my fixed wheel needs an insurance quote and some mechanical love. I might take the opportunity to get it powdercoated while it is out of action. This morning, I nearly got knocked off by a car driver at the same roundabout where I got knocked off my fixed on Monday.

Yelling resulted from my side and an apology from the driver but I am starting to feel targeted.
https://www.depop.com/products/frediculous-vintage-the-far-side-comic/
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 28 October, 2021, 04:01:56 pm
Ouch, take care of yourself. Also is there something about the junction, time of day, angle of the sun etc. that could be the issue or is it just an outbreak of dozy drivers?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 28 October, 2021, 04:22:19 pm
I come out of a little-used road and the other three roads are busy. Drivers look for a gap in traffic coming from the other roads and ignore that I am the gap.

I have been commuting through this roundabout for years and almost never had an issue but I am wondering about “third time lucky”!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 28 October, 2021, 05:49:14 pm
Got to be a T-shirt "I am The Gap" - but please take care so you can wear it!

Peter
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: handcyclist on 28 October, 2021, 10:46:56 pm
Bugger, twice in a row LWaB is enough to make you more than a little wary.

Similar on my commute home this evening. Big fast roundabout that has no cycle friendly alternative save shared use narrow pavements with several give way points. I'm in lane two of three on the r'bout turning right. Lane one is to go straight and ends after that exit. I have to get past the next entrance that is a classic three lane fast approach. Van exits it to go straight - late but quite normal and no real consequence. Car behind is turning left, kind of slows but doesn't stop at the give way. Gets very close to my path, so I have to prepare for a radical change in direction to avoid, which of course involves slowing, so they get closer still as I take the next exit.
They tuck in very close behind - I'm on an e-bike doing 15mph or so  - before eventually passing when lane 2 of the exit road becomes clear. No malice it seems, I guess the driver is just very unaware of how intimidating it is to have the front of a 1 tonne vehicle in motion roughly three feet away from flesh and blood and on a collision course.

All part of the low level bullying that slowly takes its toll .... :-[
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 28 October, 2021, 10:52:42 pm


Quote from: LittleWheelsandBig on 28 October, 2021, 04:22:19 pm
Drivers look for a gap in traffic [...] and ignore that I am the gap.

I've had a few of those recently (mostly from drivers turning right at T-junctions) .  It's not malicious, they're just not paying attention.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 29 October, 2021, 06:28:33 pm
Quote from: LittleWheelsandBig on 28 October, 2021, 04:22:19 pm
I come out of a little-used road and the other three roads are busy. Drivers look for a gap in traffic coming from the other roads and ignore that I am the gap.

I have been commuting through this roundabout for years and almost never had an issue but I am wondering about “third time lucky”!
They'll see you in this:
http://forum.bhpc.org.uk/quest-xs-for-sale_topic7309.html
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 29 October, 2021, 07:18:24 pm
Indeed but it might have problems fitting past the gate at Osterley House and would bottom out on some of the potholes. Filtering past the queued traffic of west London wouldn’t be fun either.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 29 October, 2021, 08:27:39 pm
Quote from: fd3 on 29 October, 2021, 06:28:33 pm
Quote from: LittleWheelsandBig on 28 October, 2021, 04:22:19 pm
I come out of a little-used road and the other three roads are busy. Drivers look for a gap in traffic coming from the other roads and ignore that I am the gap.

I have been commuting through this roundabout for years and almost never had an issue but I am wondering about “third time lucky”!
They'll see you in this:
http://forum.bhpc.org.uk/quest-xs-for-sale_topic7309.html

I'm not convinced LWaB would fit in an XS without surgery…
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 03 November, 2021, 09:43:38 am
Not as exciting as LWaB, but cycling in this morning close to a village school, where it becomes one way due to all the parents parking on the right (so my lane was unblocked, except for cars trying to negotiate through).

One woman had parked in a tiny side road on the left, and walked into the road in front of me without looking my way. She was looking left and behind her to her kid rather then right where oncoming traffic would come from. She turned around to her left (back to me and the direction of the lane) to call her kid (5 year old lad, at a guess), who had also stopped and was looking at me.

I'd been going marginally above walking pace so stopped without drama, but she looked genuinely shocked that I was there, two feet away from her in the middle of the single available lane. Luckily her 5 year old had more road sense. She did mutter an apology.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 03 November, 2021, 12:04:44 pm
Quote from: MattH on 03 November, 2021, 09:43:38 am
Not as exciting as LWaB, but cycling in this morning close to a village school, where it becomes one way due to all the parents parking on the right (so my lane was unblocked, except for cars trying to negotiate through).

One woman had parked in a tiny side road on the left, and walked into the road in front of me without looking my way. She was looking left and behind her to her kid rather then right where oncoming traffic would come from. She turned around to her left (back to me and the direction of the lane) to call her kid (5 year old lad, at a guess), who had also stopped and was looking at me.

I'd been going marginally above walking pace so stopped without drama, but she looked genuinely shocked that I was there, two feet away from her in the middle of the single available lane. Luckily her 5 year old had more road sense. She did mutter an apology.
Nice one.
It's the sensible thing to do around schools at drop off/pick up time. Whether you should have to is irrelevant: if you don't want a crash, it's the safest way to behave.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 03 November, 2021, 12:54:14 pm
Quote from: Paul on 03 November, 2021, 12:04:44 pm
Nice one.
It's the sensible thing to do around schools at drop off/pick up time. Whether you should have to is irrelevant: if you don't want a crash, it's the safest way to behave.

It's not even a case of  being sensible/safe, or having to, it's just being a reasonable human being. Busy area with lots of peds (especially distracted and/or kids), you wind it back and keep an eagle eye on people coming between cars etc.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 03 November, 2021, 01:19:44 pm
I need to get to the office earlier. School run drivers were just a nightmare today. I don’t remember it being so bad in the before times.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 04 November, 2021, 02:23:06 pm
Quote from: LittleWheelsandBig on 03 November, 2021, 01:19:44 pm
I need to get to the office earlier. School run drivers were just a nightmare today. I don’t remember it being so bad in the before times.

I noticed that on my commute on Monday.  Not school run drivers, but at least 3 cars overtaking me and forcing an oncoming car to brake angrily enough to use horns in a 10 mile section between Chertsey and Lightwater.  I do wonder if there is a correlation with the clocks going back and people being miserable because all-of-a-sudden it is dark when they set out for home after work.

Did also fulminate that there's Buckley's chance of persuading more people to take up cycling on the roads and ditch their motor vehicles whilst there is that proportion of motorists that treat cyclists as third class citizens.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 12 November, 2021, 06:38:39 pm
Quote from: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 04 November, 2021, 02:23:06 pm
I do wonder if there is a correlation with the clocks going back and people being miserable because all-of-a-sudden it is dark when they set out for home after work.

I’ve been wondering this. I go in early to get an earlier finish if poss - and that can sometimes mean catching part of the end of school rush hour. So the schools are still sort of finishing when it starts to get dark. Some terrible driving occurs - presumably due to lower visibility, more distractions, and the general foul view of the world that afflicts those who have to transport offspring in SW London. I think I unfortunately ride home just when the after-school mess merges with the work rush hour.

Noticeably more kids going to school by bike. But the number is still tiny. And there is most definitely more child-transport traffic than Before, most of which involves unfeasibly large 4x4 vehicles.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 13 November, 2021, 06:57:40 pm
Another encounter with the road this week when a girl of about 11 ran across the road in front of me. She saw me and my light and hiviz and it wasn't dark, she just ran across and blew through my front wheel. She ran straight on and onto the pavement, I was on the road and it bloody hurt again! Last time was a couple of weeks ago when a van driver undertook a car in front by using the cycle lane when I was in it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ham on 16 November, 2021, 10:12:35 pm
Just looking.  839 pages over 11 years to 2020. 10 pages in the two years since.

That tells a story.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 18 November, 2021, 03:29:06 pm
Back on the ebike this week after fixing the broken gear cable.

I'm going to need some brighter lights, the combination of shitty road surface on leckhampton road, and arsehole drivers means I'm not happy now it's getting dark earlier again.

Some hope mountain bike lights look good in a "fuck you audi driver" kinda way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 18 November, 2021, 09:54:26 pm
Quote from: davelodwig on 18 November, 2021, 03:29:06 pm
Back on the ebike this week after fixing the broken gear cable.

I'm going to need some brighter lights, the combination of shitty road surface on leckhampton road, and arsehole drivers means I'm not happy now it's getting dark earlier again.

Some hope mountain bike lights look good in a "fuck you audi driver" kinda way.

And run off the road on the way home in Bisley by an RAC van.  Police report going in and Hope R8 and District+ Lights ordered.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 19 November, 2021, 04:38:52 pm
Well, fuck!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 22 November, 2021, 12:02:09 pm
Quote from: davelodwig on 18 November, 2021, 09:54:26 pm
Quote from: davelodwig on 18 November, 2021, 03:29:06 pm
Back on the ebike this week after fixing the broken gear cable.

I'm going to need some brighter lights, the combination of shitty road surface on leckhampton road, and arsehole drivers means I'm not happy now it's getting dark earlier again.

Some hope mountain bike lights look good in a "fuck you audi driver" kinda way.

And run off the road on the way home in Bisley by an RAC van.  Police report going in and Hope R8 and District+ Lights ordered.

No action being taken because it was dark, FFS.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 23 November, 2021, 07:50:20 pm
WTAF?
Hope you weren't hurt Dave. When I was last knocked off, thankfully some years ago, the bit that really riled me was the No Further Action from the rozzers. Presumably clattering someone off at a roundabout doesn't fall "below the standard expected of a competent driver"
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 23 November, 2021, 09:12:53 pm
Unless we have presumed guilt of motorists it’s impossible for the cops to get a conviction.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 23 November, 2021, 09:36:34 pm
But the time before that (note, these incidents occurred approximately 10 and 18 years ago), the driver was prosecuted for "driving like a twat", got a £120 fine and three points. I suspect it was the presence of an independent witness, who heard the driver say "I didn't see you,my window was misted up" helped somewhat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 24 November, 2021, 12:04:40 am
I strongly suspect so, you need a witness or it’s no good.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 25 November, 2021, 10:50:23 am
Quote from: fd3 on 23 November, 2021, 09:12:53 pm
Unless we have presumed guilt of motorists it’s impossible for the cops to get a conviction.
I don't think anyone has presumed guilt.
Many countries have presumed lability, but this is a civil matter for insurance claims/compensation only, not criminal convictions.
The trouble is people in cars bump into other cars frequently, so convincing a jury of drivers that a low speed coming together of two roads users falls below the level expected of a competent driver is not likely to happen. There will be several jury members who have hit other cars, and they will of course consider themselves to be competent.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 29 November, 2021, 11:22:23 pm
It was a bit cold.
Not as icy as I feared, but I have still prepped the ice tyres in case - but I live in hope and have not fitted them!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 30 November, 2021, 05:32:13 pm
That gamble paid off
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hubner on 05 December, 2021, 09:06:28 pm
https://www.openstreetmap.org/#map=18/51.51651/-0.07267

Last Friday 6:45pm, Commercial Street E1 London, near Aldgate East tube station, the rider right in front of me got stopped by police for I presume having no lights.

I think there were 2 police cars parked, with a space between them, for issuing fines, I hope.

In my experience about 50% of cyclists in London don't have lights, this includes fully lycra-ed up, clipless using "roadies".

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 06 December, 2021, 07:55:11 pm
I strongly considered leaving the bike at work today and getting the train home.

I had a lovely ride home and am very glad I stuck to the bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 07 December, 2021, 08:02:34 pm
Discovered that the cap has fallen off my road morph - thankfully not the hard way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: aidan.f on 07 December, 2021, 08:10:17 pm
Yeah, stock fault, pin comes out. One of mine I caught in time and it has a brass rod replacement. Note to self - check the others
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 07 December, 2021, 08:22:19 pm
A greater than normal percentage of drivers seem to have been negligent or homicidal this morning. I was almost happy to pick up the work car and drive home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 07 December, 2021, 11:42:55 pm
I couldn't imagine lifting something that heavy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 08 December, 2021, 06:41:56 am
Berserker rage, I guess.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Peter on 08 December, 2021, 01:07:47 pm
Cricket power!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 08 December, 2021, 07:09:26 pm
Quote from: fd3 on 07 December, 2021, 08:02:34 pm
Discovered that the cap has fallen off my road morph - thankfully not the hard way.

Spares kits out of stock at the moment (£3.99) unless you get lucky
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 08 December, 2021, 09:04:53 pm
I knows, I has checked.  Most irksome as this is not the first time I needed a spares kit.
I does have a spare pump thoughbut.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 09 December, 2021, 12:38:34 pm
Is road morph a topeak pump? If so a few years back I lost part of one of my topeak pumps. Went into local Halfords to see if could buy a replacement and the incredibly helpful lad serving me produced a big case of pump spares to be given FOC for warranty claims and gave me the required part
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 09 December, 2021, 12:50:22 pm
It is, yes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 09 December, 2021, 07:34:25 pm
Then might be worth a wander to your local Halfords
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: telstarbox on 15 December, 2021, 10:55:27 pm
Had the minor novelty of a rural commute at night (so no street lights).  It was fun and nobody drove into me :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fimm on 14 January, 2022, 12:58:55 pm
On the way to work, cycling up a fairly steep hill. Driver behind hangs back and passed wide when it is safe to do so. After a bit the road flattens and there are traffic lights with a left lane for straight on or left turn, which I take, and a right hand lane to turn right. I'm in the left hand lane, and nice driver is in the right hand lane. The left hand lane gets a green light before the right hand one, and I'm the first vehicle to stop as the lights change back to red. So nice driver is now behind me, and now her lane gets the green light. As she passes me, she has opened her window and shouts "Well Done"!! (and got hooted at by the driver of the taxi behind...)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 15 January, 2022, 12:47:34 am
On ride home tonight drive flashed me ... I think to give way.  My confusion was that they were in the opposite lane indicating to turn through me - I didn't realise they needed to flash their lights in my face to let me know I have right of way in my lane.
...
Or maybe my lights are too bright
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 15 January, 2022, 03:20:35 pm
Quote from: hubner on 05 December, 2021, 09:06:28 pm
In my experience about 50% of cyclists in London don't have lights, this includes fully lycra-ed up, clipless using "roadies".

What I really don't understand is the number of e-bikes (and e-scooters) without lights. They're already carrying around many amp-hours of batteries and have mostly spent a non-trivial amount of money on either the entire vehicle or a conversion kit, the extra cost, both in currency and battery duration is tiny. To be fair, a greater percentage of small e-vehicles have lights than in the unpowered two-wheel category, but there's still a quite significant chunk that believe cycling on a dark bicycle, wearing dark clothing, with no lights, is not going to cause them some grief eventually.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 15 January, 2022, 03:31:28 pm
IME off-the-shelf e-bike riders are some of the best-lit cyclists, as nearly all of them (apart from the more serious mountain bikes) have StVZO-style lighting.  I see very few conversions in the wild these days (those little petrol engine kits are almost as common), but I expect they're more prolific in That London: Birmingham seems to be going through an e-bike revolution over the last couple of years, much like when Bromptons started appearing in the mid 2010s.  Tern GSDs feature strongly, as do minimum-viable-folding-EBSOs.

Scooters and related exotica (skateboards, unicycles, etc) are ridden with whatever stock lighting they come with, which is frequently none and sometimes purely for aesthetic reasons[1] (blue downlighting and similar).  The Voi hire scooters and Beryl Bikes are pretty well lit.


[1] I got overtaken by a strangely lit electric scooterboy on a dark lane last summer, and briefly thought I was about to be abducted by aliens.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 16 January, 2022, 01:25:35 am
Quote from: Kim on 15 January, 2022, 03:31:28 pm
  Tern GSDs feature strongly,
Yeah, two within stone throwing distance from here (and my wife's HSD does a half decent impression).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 17 January, 2022, 10:13:47 am
We were totally blinded by a rapturous glare the other week driving through Sydenham – the culprit wasn't the usual megawatt headlights of the latest marque of suburban main battle tank, on no, it was a little electric scooter zooming along the pavement with the light from hell on the front, perfectly angled to blind anyone approaching it. Never seen that before. I guess that's where Chinese LEDs meet Chinese scooter technology. I was seeing purple for a while.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Wobbly John on 17 January, 2022, 06:30:32 pm
This morning I had the sun rising to my left and the full ‘Wolf’ moon setting on my right. Stunning!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hubner on 17 January, 2022, 07:09:26 pm
Quote from: TimO on 15 January, 2022, 03:20:35 pm
Quote from: hubner on 05 December, 2021, 09:06:28 pm
In my experience about 50% of cyclists in London don't have lights, this includes fully lycra-ed up, clipless using "roadies".

What I really don't understand is the number of e-bikes (and e-scooters) without lights. They're already carrying around many amp-hours of batteries and have mostly spent a non-trivial amount of money on either the entire vehicle or a conversion kit, the extra cost, both in currency and battery duration is tiny. To be fair, a greater percentage of small e-vehicles have lights than in the unpowered two-wheel category, but there's still a quite significant chunk that believe cycling on a dark bicycle, wearing dark clothing, with no lights, is not going to cause them some grief eventually.

On my commute I don't really see that many ebikes, except for delivery riders on ebikes. And from looking at what ebikes are available, it's generally only city/hybrid ebikes with racks and mudguards that come with lights already installed, even then it's not all of them.

One of the great things about my Decathlon ebike is that it has built in lights running off the battery. The back is on the mudguard and the front is part of the frame.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 17 January, 2022, 07:18:35 pm
There certainly seem to be a few lightless eMTBs being used as transport.  I suspect a lot were what was available in the shop when people took up cycling in 2020, rather than a commentary on the state of the roads or the usual triumph of cool over practicality.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: phantasmagoriana on 17 January, 2022, 08:06:17 pm
Quote from: Kim on 15 January, 2022, 03:31:28 pm

Scooters and related exotica (skateboards, unicycles, etc) are ridden with whatever stock lighting they come with, which is frequently none and sometimes purely for aesthetic reasons[1] (blue downlighting and similar).  The Voi hire scooters and Beryl Bikes are pretty well lit.


I saw a fantastic e-scooter last week: all flashy lights and gangsta rap blaring out of a speaker. I was only disappointed in the lack (as far as I could see) of hydraulic suspension. ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: telstarbox on 17 January, 2022, 10:40:19 pm
Thought I'd called it ok on the temperature but there was still a bit of ice about. Took it very carefully and will drive tomorrow ❄️
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 18 January, 2022, 12:44:51 am
Quote from: phantasmagoriana on 17 January, 2022, 08:06:17 pm
Quote from: Kim on 15 January, 2022, 03:31:28 pm

Scooters and related exotica (skateboards, unicycles, etc) are ridden with whatever stock lighting they come with, which is frequently none and sometimes purely for aesthetic reasons[1] (blue downlighting and similar).  The Voi hire scooters and Beryl Bikes are pretty well lit.


I saw a fantastic e-scooter last week: all flashy lights and gangsta rap blaring out of a speaker. I was only disappointed in the lack (as far as I could see) of hydraulic suspension. ;D

Suspension?  That's crazy talk.  Next thing you know, they'll be fitting brakes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 18 January, 2022, 09:29:43 am
The Vois have some sort of teleforks...

Counterpoint to the unlit e-bikes is T42's complaint (some time ago, and in France obvs) that e-bikes appear to be permanently lit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 18 January, 2022, 01:09:29 pm
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 18 January, 2022, 09:29:43 am
The Vois have some sort of teleforks...

The do, and they seem to work.  Your heels still get a pounding, though.


Quote
Counterpoint to the unlit e-bikes is T42's complaint (some time ago, and in France obvs) that e-bikes appear to be permanently lit.

Possibly following the trend for StVZO lights to be on in daylight?  Or simply that if you don't have to worry about batteries[1], many users will opt to leave the lights on all the time.


[1] Sure, you have to charge the e-bike battery, but the power used by the lights is insignificant, so it's effectively as fit-and-forget as dynamo lighting.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Solocle on 18 January, 2022, 02:07:04 pm
From yesterday, had the chance to take the fastest route again due to the roadworks. Fastest ever bike commute at just a smidge over 10 minutes!
(https://i.ibb.co/GMnNQWj/image.png) (https://ibb.co/LgYHdxf)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jamm13dodger on 20 January, 2022, 03:09:50 pm
What happens once you get to the cones? Is it safe to continue to cycle in that lane?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 20 January, 2022, 03:31:37 pm
I had to finish the last couple of kilometres of my ride to work with my bike on my shoulder. While I was stopped at a roundabout, a woman drove forward onto my back wheel, buckling it. Once I picked myself up and moved my bike to have a good look at it, she drove away. No number plate memorised, it happened too quickly.

What is out there with regards to 360 degree cameras that can identify number plates at night? I want my friends to be able to avenge my death the next time somebody drives over me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 20 January, 2022, 03:36:56 pm
Bummer.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 20 January, 2022, 03:42:04 pm
A new rear rim required on the fixed at the very least. Other damage to be assessed when I get the bike home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hellymedic on 20 January, 2022, 03:46:48 pm
Sorry to see this, LWaB!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 20 January, 2022, 03:54:22 pm
I had only just got the fixed back on the road after being hit at a different roundabout late last year, which buckled the front wheel. The next driver that hits me is getting a U-lock through the side window and around their neck.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 20 January, 2022, 04:11:39 pm
FFS!

What size rear wheel do you run?  I could donate a 120 spaced track hub if you need it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 20 January, 2022, 04:45:08 pm
The 120mm OLD hub is probably fine and I think I have a compatible rim in the garage, so just a case of swapping things over, probably this weekend. I am really pissed off at her driving away once I was no longer in front of her car.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 20 January, 2022, 06:32:54 pm
Understandably. That’s outrageous. I’m sure the red mist would descend for me too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sam on 20 January, 2022, 06:46:04 pm
Little solace I'm sure, but karmic poetic justice demands that what goes around comes around.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 21 January, 2022, 10:30:22 am
LWaB, firstly glad it wasn't worse, is there any mileage in reporting it to the police as a hit and run / failure to exchange details?

It may be that the driver has obeyed the law and reported the incident to the police within 24 hours in which case they can pay for a new wheel or that the police can identify the vehicle from cameras. I admit they probably won't try but unless these incidents are reported they don't get into the statistics to see if they are becoming more or less common.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 21 January, 2022, 10:53:51 am
At this point, I want to write off this instance and prepare properly for the next time, so that my next of kin can avenge me. I need a 360 degree camera or multiple cameras that can pick up licence plates in the dark, last a 3 hr round trip commute and are relatively easy to use. What sort of camera do I need to get?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: chrisbainbridge on 21 January, 2022, 11:54:56 am
also do not move the bike to the side of the road and do not stand up until the driver is out of the car.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 21 January, 2022, 11:59:33 am
Well yes, but that isn’t my natural reaction in those circumstances.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: chrisbainbridge on 21 January, 2022, 11:06:48 pm
Quote from: LittleWheelsandBig on 21 January, 2022, 11:59:33 am
Well yes, but that isn’t my natural reaction in those circumstances.
I know and I apologise if my comment came across as trite. I think it was addressed at myself as much as other people.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 22 January, 2022, 06:53:31 am
Quote from: LittleWheelsandBig on 20 January, 2022, 03:31:37 pm
I had to finish the last couple of kilometres of my ride to work with my bike on my shoulder. While I was stopped at a roundabout, a woman drove forward onto my back wheel, buckling it. Once I picked myself up and moved my bike to have a good look at it, she drove away. No number plate memorised, it happened too quickly.

What is out there with regards to 360 degree cameras that can identify number plates at night? I want my friends to be able to avenge my death the next time somebody drives over me.
Again! Jeez. Hope you're OK.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 24 January, 2022, 06:55:51 pm
On way in: Spotted Mad Skillz cyclist cycling downhill at speed with hands in pockets; tipped the scales to the Mad vs Skillz side when they then proceeded at pace the wrong way down a one-way street.
On way back: Annoyingly the speed check camera flashed me at 16mph, usually I manage 18-19 and surpass the 20 limit on a good day (with a fair following wind).  This did get me to thinking that I would routinely exceed 20 on the SPM, which I put down to an aero advantage on the slight downhill as I have never developed appropriate bent legs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 25 January, 2022, 08:52:22 pm
On the way home, cold evening, short steep climb. But what's this? A crisp £5 note lying in the road. Dismount, look around, I am alone. The note was safely stored away. Set off but what's this? A few feet later a crisp £10 note is lying in the road :thumbsup: Dismount and secure the note and off for home, life and the commute enriched. Polar opposite  to getting smashed off as I did in that area before Xmas
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: quixoticgeek on 01 February, 2022, 09:47:31 am


He just stepped out, no looking, nothing. From a gap in the fence of a building site, he stepped into the fietspad, carrying a load of metal in his arm.

I tried to avoid him, I tried to brake, but it wasn't enough, we collided.

I'm gonna have a bruise on my arm, and am quite shaken. He seems OK I think.

Suppose it was gonna happen sooner or later. At least it wasn't a tourist for once.

J
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: psyclist on 01 February, 2022, 10:01:50 am
Sorry to hear that QG, but glad you both appear to be relatively fine.

Sounds like one of those things ... sometimes people can do the most unexpected things seemingly without thought. Can only hope the other person takes this as a learning opportunity.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 09 February, 2022, 08:21:16 pm
Unfortunate rider just ahead of me in a group moving off on a green light. Bars and stem spontaneously detached from bike - thankfully this was at low speed and there were cyclists behind rather than some impatient arsehole driver.

Also unfortunately, his bike bore a remarkable similarity to my Tern folder - I think it was a Dahon. Fairly typical folder stem, an item I regard with deep suspicion which has not been alleviated by this event:

(https://cdn.shoplightspeed.com/shops/608278/files/23193546/156x230x1/tern-tern-physis-3d-handlepost.jpg)

He untangled himself and I paused to briefly check he was OK. I couldn’t see if the break was at the base of the stem itself, or if the top of the steerer had fractured.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 10 February, 2022, 11:19:39 pm
Started a new job on Monday, and I can work in the office a few days/week. So today was my first commute in ages. Wet sleet for most of the 20km ride in, but nice drying facilities meant warm dry clothes for the sunny ride home.  Its good to have a commute again.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 10 February, 2022, 11:54:27 pm
Amen.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 18 February, 2022, 10:05:17 am
Windy: so far so good.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 05 March, 2022, 12:06:58 am
Wahey.  A run to work and back yesterday for a leaving bash. I do still have legs. No dramas, though the new 'safe' CS7 is a bit of a 'mare.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 08 March, 2022, 10:50:13 pm
First time for far too long. 24km or so, on a mixture of town, country lane and A23.  Bar bag was not properly fastened (forgot to smooth the velcro shut) on the way home and popped open. I quickly stopped, shut it properly and set off again. About a minute later I looked down at my handlebars to see my sunglasses hanging on the stem.  They'd made a bid for freedom when the bag opened but my mad bike handling skillz meant I'd caught them. Or I'd got lucky.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 09 March, 2022, 09:31:11 pm
The other day on the canal path I found a tenner !.  Today I got a puncture on the same section.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: matthew on 16 March, 2022, 09:48:01 am
surprisingly me!  :o

Far too long since I last rode to the office but as teh car needed it's annual service and MOT I multi moded with the bike in the car.

All rather pleasant though I have lost my suppleness and had to break to control my cadence on a decent off a motorway overbridge as I was at least on the commuting fixie.

The new cycle cages at the office are rather swanky, but the stands don't work well with full mudguards.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 16 March, 2022, 09:49:57 pm
I guess I picked the wrong day this year to forget my waterproof trousers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 25 March, 2022, 12:10:01 pm
If you are going to drive with DRLs that obscure your indicators ...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 20 April, 2022, 11:36:57 am
First commute in since February, now that workload has reduced to civilised levels.  As the clocks have changed, took my summer route across Tweseldown, through Aldershot and south of Woking into London.  It didn't feel like summer.  Not having overshoes, lost feeling below the ankles for the second half of the ride, and a slight headwind added to my legs telling me it wasn't summer.  Hopefully the predicted ENE wind will stay long enough into the evening to propel me WSW back home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 22 April, 2022, 11:18:43 pm
A few things on the commute recently.   
Hit a pigeon  - some old guy feeds a load of them under a canal bridge and the morning they were v sluggish to take off as I approached. Been shat on by this flock(presume its them) a few times 

An early morning kayak club on the canal, their trainer riding some old raleigh shopper thing with his stopwatch in hand,  Total cliche

A few paddle boarders, including Polish guy in a kilt and a ghetto blaster making his way towards auchinstarry

A mink swimming.  Other wildlife, heron, cormorant, bold foxes, small deer, rabbits.  I check in on a swans nest each trip, no sign of the cygnets yet.

Big increase in electric scooters, some very fast.

School leavers day today, an entire 6th year from local high school in special leavers hoodies, graffitied shirts and a bit pissed all over the path.  No hassle at all, they weren't that pissed yet.

Lastly, Some new bike magic today on my new low-end trek domane al3. Lovely.  Coincided with first trip in shorts - it felt nice and speedy.

Canal path is getting busier, I might have to take the road home on nice days.



Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 26 April, 2022, 08:30:19 am
Just had to swerve onto the pavement to avoid an oncoming chav in a Clio, who wasn't going to slow down or wait, despite having parked cars on his side of the road.  I know where he lives.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 27 April, 2022, 10:10:02 am
Last week's commute was interesting because the front disk brakes on the Enigma Machine faded badly.
So this week' commute was on the Roberts Audax.  About a mile in, changing down on the rear casette there was a clunk.  The mechanism in the lever had finally failed, having been a bit tetchy for while.  I could change up but not down, so effectively had a 3-speed machine (the joys of a triple chain ring).  Good fortune was that I had exactly the right combination for the commute.  Silly me, ten miles later, having congratulated myself on turning off my rear light whilst riding, I instinctively changed up and gave myself a slightly harder set of 3 gear combinations.  At least I had a good long strength training session for the remaining 40 miles into the office.

In traffic, on the Embankment, on the way back, somehow, the gear increased by one.  I swear I didn't do it deliberately - leaving me with 53-14, 40-14, and 30-14 as my gear combinations on the way home.  Gives me huge admiration for those who ride Audax on fixed.  Most of the ride was done on the 40-14, with a front mech rattling 30-14 to get up the steep hill in Richmond Park.  At least both bikes are booked in for a complete overhaul.  Next week's commute with be done on the Roberts Race bike, with the Carradice bag attached.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 05 May, 2022, 11:15:05 pm
Yesterday on a short sharp hill I was overtaken by another cyclist - which is odd as there are not that many cyclists and being an every day commuter && fixie I tend to win on the commuter hillclimb challenge.  Rider on a flat bar, steady pace, seems to be going smoothly - chapeau think I.  Then I notice the e-bike battery.
I could have called out "that's cheating" but really I was just relieved.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 07 May, 2022, 01:07:32 pm
Gloves?  This week I've been through lobsters, mid season and am now onto track mitts.  Would the weather make up its mind please?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 09 May, 2022, 06:36:07 pm
This was going to be a 'Yay back in the saddle again  :thumbsup:' post.
First commute on the bike since the morning after Boris's 'stay home' broadcast and only the second time on the bike since then.
The ride is was fine. Went to come home. Back tyre is flat and has come off the rim. Will not re-inflate. Phone MrsC to come and get me (it's less than three miles and it's easy to get a bike into our car).
I do not have time to sort the issue tonight so back on four wheels.  :'(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: geraldc on 09 May, 2022, 09:56:29 pm
My commute takes me through Hyde park. It's normally a pleasant enough pootle, the times of day I commute, the bike lane is empty, and most of the people are on Santander bikes or equivalent sensible bikes. I had a run in with someone on an ebike today. I was happily pedalling along when I heard a whirring behind me, and it was some guy on an ebike who was unhappy that I wasn't cycling as far left as possible, so in order to overtake me he would have to move into the oncoming (albeit empty) cycle lane. This has never been an issue previously as normally you can hear road bikes coming behind you, and act accordingly, ie I'd move to the left, but this was an ebike that wasn't even being pedalled, so no cranks or pedals squeaking to give you a heads up) and then he shouted at me for not signalling when I slowed down for oncoming pedestrians. I think there are a new breed of e bike commuters who have just traded one powered method of transport for another and they seem to be total dicks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 10 May, 2022, 12:57:45 pm
Yob on illegal bike?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 11 May, 2022, 06:51:31 pm
Rain on and off all ride and a blustery wind.

But wasn't cold. The motor made it not a trudge. And I had waterproof jacket and trousers on.  :thumbsup:

I did nearly lose the front end at a t junction though which didn't half get the heart going! Plus given the geometry of the situation I think I'd have failed to unclip if I had lost it completely and I'd have landed on hip and elbow/shoulder. So I'm glad I stayed upright. Felt like it slid about a foot and a half but I suspect it was a few inches at most.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 12 May, 2022, 01:20:14 pm
Its very pretty at the moment.  My work-bound summer commute route takes me along the A323, A324, and B380 south of Woking, through Fox Corner, Mayford, and Old Woking.  At the time I do it the traffic is light, so I have fast roads through forest, low sun glittering through the trees.  And I save the astronomic daily train fare into London.  When I was on weekly tickets it didn't seem so bad, but the cost of going in for 1 day works out at 49p/mile.  If I rode in once a week for a year, I'd save enough for a reasonably good new bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: velosam on 13 May, 2022, 09:04:09 pm
First cycle from work in nearly 2 years. Was memorable for 2 reasons - first it was on a non electric bicycle, secondly it was on a heavily laden folder.

Only one way mind as I stayed at a friend's in London, so the ride in was 2 miles!

Gosh it was hard work but the overall time nearly 1.5 hrs for 17 miles was roughly winter pace.

It was not fun though, a westerly wind wore me down and the seat post was slipping.

On the plus side, rode up all the hills (in first gear!) and didn't stop for a break.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 16 May, 2022, 05:51:35 pm
A successful commute both ways today!  :D
I'd forgotten quite how much I enjoy the process. (Not the destination, mind.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fimm on 17 May, 2022, 02:03:18 pm
Set off from home in the haar. Climbed out of it, enjoyed a sunny ride along the Lang Wang, and then descended back into it again on the way to the office.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Ashaman42 on 17 May, 2022, 02:11:02 pm
Flipped between bright sunshine and misty/foggy patches on the way in today. Fascinating how abrupt the transition can be.

Saw two deer, or the same deer twice, which was nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 25 May, 2022, 12:52:01 pm
In the Commuter Pursuit race this am I made the catch and we ended up with three single speed riders on the same stretch of road (one coming the other way) - which was notable of itself.

Later I spot a brompton up ahead, another good motivator to shave time off the commute ... they were giving it some though ... and seemed to be pedalling at a sedate rate (must be one hellofa gear they're in) ... oh, they have a motor.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 25 May, 2022, 01:34:45 pm
On that note, I outsprant* an e-bike off from the lights and all the way round the Bearpit roundabout yesterday. This is 99% certain evidence he'd turned the e-assistance off!

*sprint, sprant, sprunt – no?  :D :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 25 May, 2022, 01:41:54 pm
I definitely had a sprunt finish at the silly bike races last weekend.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 20 June, 2022, 11:13:35 am
Was in town for dentist
(click to show/hide)
so cycled back along the canal.  A bit woozy but I did not imagine the bakfiets with dog in it coming the other way.  A bit courageous on a canal path I would have thought.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 21 June, 2022, 11:44:57 pm
Coming along Maryhill Rd on my way home, some utter prick in a blue audi s3 cutting in and out of the bus lane, flooring it and letting the exhaust bang obscenely loudly for ages.  I passed him and I'd even got caught at some lights.  A prick in a suit, not as expected.
But then later on the canal, a small street band playing on a canal boat as part of a local festival.  A really nice wee break on my way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 30 June, 2022, 10:20:21 am
Hadn't had the opportunity to commute in for a few weeks, so decided to come in today despite DOMS from the Brimstone at the weekend.  All very pleasant except for Old Woking, where there were three or four unnecessary close passes in succession.  The legs feel better for the 55 mile ride in - the best cure for sore legs from cycling is to do more cycling.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 01 July, 2022, 10:37:38 pm
On the ride back yesterday, decided to explore taking the A307 through Esher and then the A245 to pick up my outbound route.   The road was closed at the rail bridge just before the Scilly Isles Roundabout, as a truck had wedged itself under the bridge at a 30-degree angle off normal.  Hold on, I thought, that's the mainline.  So I was probably quicker back by bike that having to sit on a train whilst they checked the bridge and the track.   The Enigma machine definitely needs new transmission, but I will probably wear the current set into the ground as its all going to get replaced.  Tidy 112 miles for the day, which I was chuffed with, having done the Brimstone at the weekend.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 03 July, 2022, 12:42:49 am
Road works nr Nothfield station means that the roads are completely shut to traffic - but open to residents so a very pleasant bike ride.

On the ride home yesterday the fucking huge queueues in all directions in Northfield!  I think 90% of them need to swap their cars for a bike, E or otherwise.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 03 July, 2022, 05:43:07 pm
Meanwhile, up in Silly Oak, we've had the traditional BloodyStudent-moving-out-day gridlock.  With a bonus standoff on the Raddlebarn Road between WVM and taxi driver, both of whom you'd think would know better than to move forward just because there's a space big enough for their vehicle.  I picked the wrong day to take a trailer full of WEEE[1] and stickamore sticks to the tip at Lifford Lane, as that precludes mounting the pavement and nonchalantly wheeling past the chaos.

Someone appears to have got an off-schedule bin lorry through at some point though.  Probably at audax o'clock, when the BloodyStudents were still in bed.   :thumbsup:


[1] I'd nabbed an abandoned toaster[2] before it got rained on, de-crumbed it, check the earthing and only then discovered that the bread sproinger wouldn't latch.  Which meant I was duty-bound to dispose of it responsibly, along with the bag of expired electronicals that's been lurking behind the door for about a year.
[2] Previous experience means that 'free' is the most I'm willing to spend on a toaster.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 04 July, 2022, 05:49:58 pm
As I came through the centre of the village this morning, I waved at colleague who was just walking to his car. As I arrived at work, he was just getting out of his car and walking across the carpark.
I wonder if he will work out the logic there?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 04 July, 2022, 06:05:01 pm
Quote from: Kim on 03 July, 2022, 05:43:07 pm
Meanwhile, up in Silly Oak, we've had the traditional BloodyStudent-moving-out-day gridlock. 

Here’s Belfast at student moving-out time. Every year.

https://www.belfastlive.co.uk/news/belfast-news/residents-wits-end-over-mountains-24385562

https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/northern-ireland/belfasts-holyland-row-as-residents-call-for-action-over-students-dumping-rubbish-along-alleyways-39515591.html

I used to live in the Holyland. HMOs and slum landlords have changed it beyond recognition.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 04 July, 2022, 08:05:13 pm
The thing that pisses me off most is that half the waste is low-value but serviceable household items that landlords don't provide, but none of the students want to take responsibility for when they move out.  (To be clear, I'm not really blaming the students.  Who wants to cram a kitchen bin that cost all of about a fiver into their mum's Micra when it's already overflowing with duvets and things?  They can't even clean it and leave it for the next occupants of the house, as doing so risks their deposit.)  A couple of months later, the students return and locust Big Sainsbury's, Wilkos and The Little Hardware Shop On The High Street for new cheesy plastic clothes airers and draining racks, and the cycle continues.

At least the fridges can be made into a calendar...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: ian on 05 July, 2022, 11:16:12 am
Back when we were students, places were furnished (an optimistic definition of furnished). Admittedly, we had a sofa that looked like it had been used in a porn film and then had the cast murdered on it and a TV that weighed more than the Titanic and a took a week to warm up (as a plus, far too heavy for the weekly burglary to deprive us of its company). You know your stuff is shit when the burglars dump it in the garden.

Our last place featured a bag of cement in the bath, so you could sit on if you were inclined to brave the temperamental temperature of the shower (a fate you risked once, we showered at the Uni from then on). On the plus side, we didn't get burglarized as that was the place where our landlord was the local gangster and the local scrotes didn't want to be on his radar. Any trouble, let me know and the lads will sort it out. Given we'd seen them expel the next-door junkies who'd moved in over the summer through the merry process of baseball bats and extreme prejudice, I can understand why. He had a huge treasure trove of illicit merchandise (booze and cigarettes mostly) in the lock-up downstairs, which probably explained his proprietary interest.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 05 July, 2022, 01:04:26 pm
Judging by what I see the *landlords* dumping, the houses are furnished with RJF's[1] finest blue[2] mattresses, chipboard desks with a half-life of about 5 months and assorted nasty chairs.  And if the To Let adverts are anything to go by, Fucking Big Televisions™.  And fridges, obviously.  But whatever isn't on the inventory has to be removed at the end of tenancy, to save the landlord the effort of fly-tipping it themselves.

(These days students have utterly reliable[3] 7.5kW Pissy Electric Showers in their individual en-suite cupboards.  Regular readers will recall Data Logger Dave bemoaning their cumulative effect on the local electricity distribution network.)


[1] Local "Specialists in all types of furniture" [for someone else to use]
[2] Apart from the stains
[3] Cold and feeble, whatever the ambient temperature
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 08 July, 2022, 05:13:43 pm
Have to work away next week, so the commuting machine - currently the Enigma - is having a rest to get a new chain, cassette, rear mech (probably) and no doubt a few other bits and pieces.  I think the start-stop from Richmond Park into central London is hard on the transmission.  As is time-trialling the last hour home to make a self-set curfew.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tynan2 on 09 July, 2022, 01:43:11 pm
Coming home on Friday, down the North side of Stamford Hill on the A10, the seeming sensible rider in front of me crossed both lanes to ride down the centre line for no apparent reason and then made a very unsensible sudden left hand turn across three lanes of rush hour traffic, I am sure I heard his pedal strike the road before the left turn took him somehow into the pedestrian crossing space in the railings, and he rejoined the road to the leftand  carried on his way but jesus wept, bizarre. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1IGDa3It6AXXWepfWZLNyhtUEvsfldEO1/view?usp=sharing (https://drive.google.com/file/d/1IGDa3It6AXXWepfWZLNyhtUEvsfldEO1/view?usp=sharing)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 22 July, 2022, 08:49:38 pm
Yesterday evening, I had a dream run along the Embankment and New Kings Road and over Putney Bridge - was leaving later than usual, and there wasn't much traffic and most of the lights were green, so I managed 3 miles more than I usually do in the first hour.  There was also a light tailwind, rather than the prevailing headwind.  I thought I might manage the commute home to Basingstoke in under 3 hours, which is a rare event.  Ended up time-trialling most of the way home and set a PB for the return.  Checking the records it was my 58th London commute and I'm 58.  That appealed to my sense of numbers
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 27 July, 2022, 09:18:09 am
No discernable difference in traffic today - cyclists or motor vehicles.  I think work-form-home and school-holidays has a bigger impact than train-strike. 

The new route through Esher seems to be working well, but there are signs up about gas works next week so might have to revert to riding through Walton instead.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Redlight on 01 August, 2022, 02:53:13 pm
My wife has recently taken up cycling to work. Last week she was riding home through Deptford/Greenwich, where there is a long stretch of wide, segregated, beautifully surfaced two-way cycle lane that has been apparently completed for months but has yet to open. So, she was on the road, which has narrow lanes and big signs asking drivers not to overtake cyclists. All the way along she was beeped at and hassled by a black cab driver who pulled alongside her twice, screaming that she should be using the cycle lane.

After he had overtaken her, he had to stop at some lights and as she eased past him he again began shouting, so she very calmly explained that she would love to be using the cycle lane but that it was closed to cyclists. And she pointed to the concert barriers a little further ahead, preventing access.

And guess what - he said he didn't realise that and apologised profusely  ;D

Perhaps a good example of how a polite response to aggression can be more effective than snapping back. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 02 August, 2022, 06:18:18 pm
First one in ages.

I'd forgotten what a mess has been made of CS7.

The trick is to use it out of peak hours, when I guess it must be insufferable.

There's one bit heading south approaching Colliers Wood where the cycle lane goes onto a bypass lane to take you round the back of a bus stop (just as you come down from a railway bridge). There's very slight edge to the stone to get you onto the lane. Unforgivable. I'll be astounded if that doesn't take people out.
https://www.google.com/maps/@51.4218874,-0.1745657,3a,75y,151.81h,85.02t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sZlLPhM_lgFAgR0xlZBhdbA!2e0!7i16384!8i8192


Other than that, lovely to stretch the legs.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 04 August, 2022, 10:47:35 pm
Experimented with a new route today.  As it was going to be my 319th century ride I decided I would include all of the A319 (Addlestone - Lightwater) on my route.  It turned out to be a lot nicer than I thought it would be.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 23 August, 2022, 07:24:26 pm
Took the catrike to work doday as it is a cpd day and therefore not worried if a bit late.  Quite doable and did get some special treatment from motorists, but some junctions very tricky, especially when cars are parked on pavement/double yellows and you need to be in the road to see if it’s clear.
Also interesting that on the way in I was a couple mph slower, but on the trip back a couple mph faster, including a stint above 20, which is good for me.  Also hills not really a problem on a trike (for Birmingham values of “hill”).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 24 August, 2022, 09:42:06 am
Wet. Very wet.
I had to wash the cycle path off before getting in the pool.
Then I didn't bother towelling off post-swim, my clothes were sodden anyway.

Now at work thankful for the spare knickers and socks that live here. And wearing my safety boots in the hope the shoes dry even a little.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jamm13dodger on 25 August, 2022, 11:13:51 am
Quote from: fboab on 24 August, 2022, 09:42:06 am
Wet. Very wet.
....... in the hope the shoes dry even a little.

Me too, currently have all my clothes and shoes hanging up in my storeroom in front of a fan heater :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 26 August, 2022, 05:18:48 pm
A full house this week - five commutes.
The last time I did that was March 2015  :o
(Now I'm usually working from home two days a week. In the before times, there was almost always a need to take the car in at least once.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 27 August, 2022, 03:12:36 am
Same for me this week but not such a rarity for me.   Wet on 4 of 5 days though
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: mcshroom on 02 September, 2022, 03:33:04 pm
Finally got myself out on the bike commute after far too long . Bonus today of following this local celebrity and his entourage down the C2C cycleway into Whitehaven: -

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-cumbria-61058651.amp

A marathon a day for a year! :o
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 02 September, 2022, 03:34:42 pm
Quote from: mcshroom on 02 September, 2022, 03:33:04 pm
A marathon a day for a year! :o

I thought a Mars was more traditional
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 06 September, 2022, 11:04:25 am
101st bike commute is to this job, puncture #2 this morning.  Mary hill road again. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 08 September, 2022, 10:19:18 pm
An off on the way home. A small girl on her bike came out from behind a car. I  almost stop but hit her bike and down I go. Like a tortoise on my back under my bike and her father is stood watching me. Second time I have had an off on this street. First time by a young girl (11) who saw me but ran across the road straight into my front wheel. Clearly no road safety being taught. It's a side road but traffic is frequent.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 09 September, 2022, 12:53:19 pm
Children (and older people) are cognitively poor at judging the speed of objects moving directly towards them by looming.  That's going to be even worse for a two-wheeler than it is for a car, as the apparent change in width is smaller.  Which is why it's the other road user's responsibility to look out for them.

Obviously the child should be taught to cross from somewhere where they're visible, so that the other road users can account for their poor judgement.  Which is fine until everywhere is littered with parked cars.

(I recently had a near-miss with an adult walking out from behind a heaped skip while looking in the other direction.  No sympathy for that.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: John Stonebridge on 14 September, 2022, 09:58:11 am
Ive been back at my previous "normal place of work" two or three days a week since mid August, cycling the 4km each way. 

This morning felt nippy enough for me to at least know where my gloves are if I need them.   

Definitely feeling better for having had even a short bike ride before work rather than simply climbing a set of stairs at home. 
 

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Diver300 on 15 September, 2022, 05:43:17 pm
Two incidents of threatening behaviour from van drivers today.

This morning, waiting at the traffic lights here:- https://goo.gl/maps/1GM4AfJdfYiNhGqy8 The single alternate line working and the "road works" have been there for years due to some political problem.

There's a car in front of me. I'm second in the queue. I was vaguely aware that the vehicle behind has left a large gap. The light change, and the driver of the van behind me overtakes before the roadworks and cuts in with not a lot to spare. I attempt to slap the side of the van and the driver brake checks me. I phone the police on that one.

The evening, filtering through traffic and the driver of the van I'm overtaking swerves towards me and goes to take up all the space between his van and the car in front. He winds down the window and tells me that I need a h****t if I'm riding on the road, before swerving at me again. I shout that he needs to back off. Later when he catches up and overtakes he says something but I don't hear it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: TimO on 17 September, 2022, 07:38:59 pm
The commuting was a bit weird this week. My route doesn't take me close to the lying-in-state queue, I cross the Thames about 2km to the west of the queue, but the traffic along the way has been a bit unusual.

It's been busy at times I didn't expect it to be, and quiet when I assumed it would be a lot busier. There's a much greater incidence of private hire vehicles during the daytime, which are mostly a nocturnal species. I've seen more cars with overseas plates too, I easily identified Romanian, Irish and Swiss cycling home yesterday evening, but mostly I just notice the white rear plates, which most countries seem to use, and which makes them obvious compared to our yellow ones.

The biggest change has been a much greater number of confused drivers on the roads. The ones who turn left from a right hand lane, or vice versa. The ones that drive very slowly, searching for a junction, frequently indicating in one direction before turning in the other. Generally I've had to keep a paranoid eye on a lot more strange, and occasionally dangerous driving than usual.

I guess it'll all disappear by the middle of next week, once all the visitors have returned home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Basil on 17 September, 2022, 07:46:43 pm
A bit like the evening commute on the last Friday before Christmas, then?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 23 September, 2022, 10:51:20 am
First one for quite a while.

Nothing remarkable happened (as it should be).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 05 October, 2022, 09:07:08 am
Finally perfected my summer commute route today, by snipping out 8 miles of busy roads through Byfleet to Cobham with 9 miles of lanes through Send and Ockham to Cobham.  Blissfully aided by a stonking tailwind.  Once the clocks go back, will revert to better-lit winter routes, but having something to look forward to in the spring. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 06 October, 2022, 02:29:52 pm
Quote from: hatler on 23 September, 2022, 10:51:20 am
First one for quite a while.

Nothing remarkable happened (as it should be).
Likewise. First commute in 6 months (because https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=123273.msg2729678#msg2729678: I'm still waiting for treatment, but I have given up not cycling).

I've done every day this week so far. Joyous.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 06 October, 2022, 11:50:09 pm
Quote from: Paul on 06 October, 2022, 02:29:52 pm
Quote from: hatler on 23 September, 2022, 10:51:20 am
First one for quite a while.

Nothing remarkable happened (as it should be).
Likewise. First commute in 6 months (because https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=123273.msg2729678#msg2729678: I'm still waiting for treatment, but I have given up not cycling).

I've done every day this week so far. Joyous.
Nice one. Are you going to make it a full house ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 07 October, 2022, 09:39:05 am
Quote from: hatler on 06 October, 2022, 11:50:09 pm
Quote from: Paul on 06 October, 2022, 02:29:52 pm
Quote from: hatler on 23 September, 2022, 10:51:20 am
First one for quite a while.

Nothing remarkable happened (as it should be).
Likewise. First commute in 6 months (because https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=123273.msg2729678#msg2729678: I'm still waiting for treatment, but I have given up not cycling).

I've done every day this week so far. Joyous.
Nice one. Are you going to make it a full house ?
Not this week. I had to lug 5 bottles of fizz to work today, and wasn't confident of my ability to do so safely on the bike, so just 4/5. But I hardly ever have to do that, so should be good for next week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 14 October, 2022, 10:33:13 am
First cycling commute since July (which is pretty bad, though I have been doing some other bits).

It was really weird on the road today. Almost without exception all overtakes by motorised road users were patient and perfectly executed. Even the gardener's transit pulling a trailer waited, the fully in the other lane, then well past before pulling in.

It was busy out there - I went past about 1/2 mile of stationary traffic down the middle of the road at one point - just all quite calm.

As I was a bit late starting out, I didn't find the cap I normally wear so was bare headed. The weather was fine for that. I wonder if the salt and pepper distinguished gentleman hair colour I've been carefully cultivating over the last few years rather than them thinking I was a youngster had anything to do with it?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 14 October, 2022, 06:36:31 pm
Quote from: MattH on 14 October, 2022, 10:33:13 am
...
It was really weird on the road today. Almost without exception all overtakes by motorised road users were patient and perfectly executed...
I think I'm noticing better and wider passes. I honestly didn't think anyone would heed the changes to the HC, but maybe I was wrong?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: perpetual dan on 18 October, 2022, 11:06:12 pm
It was time for lights on the commute home today.
It would be splendid if the other riders could adjust theirs better. I brushed arms with a bloke going the other way on the cycle path, despite my face being well illuminated. Any further left and I’d have been in the bushes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 02 November, 2022, 10:00:45 pm
That was wild !  There and back dry which was unexpected but the wind on the way back was really windy/blustery - It wasn't a night to be an inexperienced cyclist out there.  Dark, wet roads and very gusty.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 03 November, 2022, 08:27:19 am
I didn't ride yesterday, That was too interesting from the top of a hill in County Durham.

Anyway, in todays news: drowned rat. Not me, an actual dead vermin. I couldn't work out where it'd been living, there was no obvious food source.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 03 November, 2022, 11:39:40 am
After working away or having valid logistical reasons not to commute in, had an opportunity to do so yesterday and ignored the weather forecast.  Even trying to take a sheltered route back from London to Basingstoke resulted in 4 hours of Rule #9.  I've been fortunate this year, almost to the point where I could be accused of being a fair-weather rider, so this should put me back on track for PBP qualifiers next year, where I won't have a choice of when to ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Afasoas on 05 November, 2022, 03:53:50 pm
I did a commute. Yay.
Drove down to the North London office with the bike in the back of the van. Then cycled North London to Paddington on Monday night and took the return trip on Friday. Must be 10 years since last cycle-commute in London.

I must have grown fat. About half an inch spare in my cycling jersey.
As soon as I untethered the bike the heavens opened. It was a very wet ride.

The roads seem to have deterioated a lot in the last 10 years, in terms of pot holes. Not so bad in/around Paddington itself but most of that A5 north felt chuffin terrible.
The other big change is the sheer number of gig economy delivery riders ... oofta. If power assisted, they'll get past you anway they can.

Seems I can still manage a fairly decent turn of speed, even with a weeks worth of luggage on board, but a bit lacking on stamina. Working from home is not doing me any good at all.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 07 November, 2022, 06:38:48 pm
Wet, but a tailwind most of the way, the big puddles which were covering over half the road yesterday have drained away, and all bar one cars which over took me did so with an exemplary amount of space (and the one exception wasn't really that bad, just started to move back in before completely passing me due to the car coming the other way).
Much more fun that taking the car.  :D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 09 November, 2022, 07:44:04 pm
Me. Probably about to get regular again based upon the demands of the Mothership.

After the last completely uneventful commute today's was a nightmare. I'm pretty circumspect on that thar CS7, but bugger me, I nearly got taken out twice by left turning vehicles today. Incompetent bastards.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 16 November, 2022, 01:33:05 pm
I would have liked the person who stated that 'there is no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing' to have accompanied me on my commute in this morning and asked them at the end whether they still held to that opinion.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 16 November, 2022, 04:07:45 pm
Yesterday pm was moist, but not as bad as the week before where it took me three days to dry my (waterproof) shoes out.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 16 November, 2022, 09:29:37 pm
I stalled at home awaiting the blue skies this morning. It was worth the wait. A glorious ride in.
Slightly soggy on the way home, but it's still warm.
No motorised nerks whatsoever, apart from the e-scooter rider doing approx 25mph, unlit, in the pissing rain, about 6' from the car in front.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 17 November, 2022, 09:45:34 am
Three hours and twenty minutes of rain last night.  But there was a tailwind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 29 November, 2022, 08:21:04 am
Nice rides going home yesterday and coming in this morning. Last night with the mist on the canal and the darkness it feels like a scene from the legend of sleepy hollow. Actually stopped to take in the view of the small crescent moon above the fields over the mist.   I thought it was going to be a lot colder this morn, but didn’t see any frost on the canal path. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 29 November, 2022, 09:11:57 am
Seemed to be a lot of traffic today - part of that was taking the A329 through Ascot and Virginia Water as today should be my 329th century ride, but even the regular section of the routes had more metal boxes than usual.  None of the people in the metal boxes looked particularly happy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 29 November, 2022, 11:03:42 am
Mr Smith offered to come and get me yesterday because the fog makes me nervous in the dark.
I thought he was over reacting.

Then I rode home. As soon as I dropped to 200m ASL i entered the mist. Maybe 30ft visibility. Ended up riding down the bank at walking pace. Grim.

This morning it looked like someone had laid a spell, clear pinky skies above and a blanket over Lanchester. Pretty.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 30 November, 2022, 09:13:36 am
Very little traffic on the way back.  I presume it was the football.  So, having complained that having a World Cup in November and December meant traffic free roads when I would least use them, it appears that I have accidentally reaped the football dividend.  Chuffed. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Afasoas on 03 December, 2022, 12:20:48 pm
I needed to travel to north and then to central London again. Once again I stowed the bike in the back of the Van and at the end of day 1 set off for the Hotel.

Wasn't raining this time again which was good.
Free hub/wheel* on the bike decided to stop engaging. As a result wound up pushing the bike well over 15 miles in 2 days.



*Haven't checked to see which it is; Bike is a Ridgeback, about 10 or 15 years old. I bought it a few years ago, scarcely used. I'll have a look at it later today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 03 December, 2022, 01:39:10 pm
Yesterday I completed my first full week of cycle commuting since March 2020.
Wow.
It was mighty satisfying, and my knee was fine (although I haven't been brave enough to climb Morley Lane yet and so I revert to my 24" gear for that bit).
Hoping to do many more, but probably only every other week: on the weeks when I have the boys it's just so convenient to work from home and be here when they leave and return.
It's not just convenience; when I only have them 50% of the time I want to maximise my time with them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 03 December, 2022, 01:44:54 pm
I pulled up alongside a school run driver yesterday, noting that the rear ns passenger door was slightly ajar, the door next to the little girl in the child seat. She might have been perfectly safe; I think there's a mechanism that holds the door even if it's not properly closed, or am I imaging that?
Anyway, there was time to tell the driver and ask if she wanted me to shut it properly (she did) before the lights changed. Good deed done I carried on looking for more things to fix  :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 03 December, 2022, 02:26:17 pm
Quote from: Paul on 03 December, 2022, 01:39:10 pm
Yesterday I completed my first full week of cycle commuting since March 2020.
Wow.
It was mighty satisfying, and my knee was fine (although I haven't been brave enough to climb Morley Lane yet and so I revert to my 24" gear for that bit).
Hoping to do many more, but probably only every other week: on the weeks when I have the boys it's just so convenient to work from home and be here when they leave and return.
It's not just convenience; when I only have them 50% of the time I want to maximise my time with them.
What a result !! Well done.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 03 December, 2022, 02:42:11 pm
Thursday. A completely unremarkable commute. Evening social in the office and I was planning only to hang round long enough to be polite, but got stuck into some great conversations and headed up heading home at about 9.30.

Tooting Broadway isn't any less crap at that time than it is at 6.30pm.

But, OMG, the cycle lane on the south bound side of Balham High Road. Absolute shite. Even more so when it's dark.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 04 December, 2022, 11:24:07 pm
The formal opening of this rather splendid bridge I've been using on my commute for the last few weeks.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-glasgow-west-63851852
https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=48852.msg2764640#msg2764640
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 05 December, 2022, 07:46:38 pm
On the way in #2 son had a puncture.  “It was like that on Friday” says he. :facepalm:
On way home needed to drop by his school to pick his bike up for puncture repair. Just too small to shoulder, just too low to ghost, just too big to carry across my handlebars. Shiz
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 07 December, 2022, 11:28:42 am
-2.

I didn't get very far- the battery gave out an error message and the motor didn't mote.

Turns out I should have connected my 'Li-Ion batteries don't work/charge at 0C' knowledge with 'my bike has a Li-Ion battery to work its motor'.

I toyed with just MTFU and riding without any assist but then I remembered a) I'm fat b) my knee is fecked c) I've got studded tyres on for the ice and d) there's a big-ass hill between me & work.

Got a lift.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jamm13dodger on 09 December, 2022, 06:29:07 pm
5 straight days this week and feeling pretty pleased I completed it. 18 miles each way so 180 miles this week. Bloomin cold feet despite winter shoes and overshoes but coped well despite that.

(https://photos.app.goo.gl/yeD8cB1SXrieUeGZ7)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 09 December, 2022, 06:32:11 pm
Quote from: Jamm13dodger on 09 December, 2022, 06:29:07 pm
5 straight days this week and feeling pretty pleased I completed it. 18 miles each way so 180 miles this week. Bloomin cold feet despite winter shoes and overshoes but coped well despite that.

(https://photos.app.goo.gl/yeD8cB1SXrieUeGZ7)
Whoa - that's an impressive shift. I know there are some big commutes on here and I'm not worthy (26 round trip, 2x13 pd, was my best, and I never did a full week), so le hat!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jamm13dodger on 12 December, 2022, 08:14:34 am
Cheers, I'm now off for the 2 weeks till Christmas so I knew I would be cycling less so could take the chance of wearing myself out a bit.
Strava reckons I've done 6104 miles this year, most of that will be commuting. I've built it up in the year and a half since we moved house and ended up on a great cycle route for my commute. I hadn't really noticed too much but with more people returning to the office the number of people commenting on how much weight I've lost has been nice.
Add in the money saved on fuel for the car and I'm quite chuffed.
It's snowing here so will probably satisfy myself with setting up some new 700c wheels I've got as a swap out for the 650b gravel ones in my commuter bike. The mtb needs a puncture fixing which I'll do and I have half a dozen assorted inner tubes that need sorting and checking, think they have all been patched but best to check before packing them back into the garage. :)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 12 December, 2022, 08:41:49 am
Nice !
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 12 December, 2022, 10:54:15 am
Quote from: Paul on 09 December, 2022, 06:32:11 pm
Quote from: Jamm13dodger on 09 December, 2022, 06:29:07 pm
5 straight days this week and feeling pretty pleased I completed it. 18 miles each way so 180 miles this week. Bloomin cold feet despite winter shoes and overshoes but coped well despite that.

(https://photos.app.goo.gl/yeD8cB1SXrieUeGZ7)
Whoa - that's an impressive shift.
What he said!  I do about 20% of that, wouldn't consider a job that required a commute of longer than 10 miles each way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jamm13dodger on 12 December, 2022, 12:29:05 pm
I actually moved from somewhere closer to work. I rode less there as it was roads 90% of the commute. This new commute is 90% (maybe more) on a really good shared path which is pretty quiet. It's anywhere between an hour and and hour and twenty minutes to ride in. My work has great changing and shower facilities and I feel so much better for the exercise.
If I was to drive I'd be in the car for about 35 minutes if there was no traffic but I've had days on the old commute where its well over an hour to get in. It's one of those towns that grinds to a complete halt at times.
There is also the fact I would be paying well over £200 a month on fuel.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 12 December, 2022, 01:20:11 pm
Quote
This new commute is 90% (maybe more) on a really good shared path which is pretty quiet... My work has great changing and shower facilities

I can only dream.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hubner on 12 December, 2022, 09:25:18 pm
I came off 4 times today.

Morning
First, going over some uneven compacted snow at walking pace.
Second, going off left from the wet track left by cars, the bike went down but I managed to jump off on to my feet.

Evening
Third, segregated cycle path, black ice on a 90 degree bend so speed was low. After that I rode on the road, but traffic lights and car queues made me get back on the  cycle path which was a mistake.
Fourth, 2 way segregated cycle path,  some unlit all black rider coming towards me on the wrong side of the path, I braked then went over black ice, went down and hit the side of my face on the ground. I think my glasses took most of the impact, and the plastic frame and/or metal hinge probably caused the cut near my eye, also one swelling on the cheek. I stuck to the road for the rest of the way home.

I was well padded with lots of layers so no injuries except for on the face.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 14 December, 2022, 08:53:21 am
Sorry to hear of your woes Hubner.  I was planning to commute in a couple of times this week to relieve the boredom of WFH during the train strikes, but having had a semi-nasty off on black ice a few years back (bursitis in the right hip that left me on crutches for a few weeks, despite plenty of padding) I didn't want to take the risk. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Lightning Phil on 14 December, 2022, 09:48:22 am
Kind of hints at priorities for transport. Clear the roads but do bugger all for cycle tracks.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hubner on 14 December, 2022, 09:52:33 pm
Thanks, CTE.

I had another fall on the day after (yesterday). Again (front) braking then going over ice, but on a minor road but through route which I think was mainly clear of ice, it was bad luck I braked going over the ice patch.

I took the train today but didn't check about the strike, the 13 mile evening journey going home on the bus took 2 1/2 hours which is normal for that journey believe it or not.

The more central areas of London, both main roads and cycle paths, are generally ice free. It's the segregated cycle routes in the more outer areas that are icy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 15 December, 2022, 04:32:04 pm
I took it nice and easy today. It was definitely cold enough for ice but here (just outside Derby) I noticed none. Can it be cold enough for ice, but too dry for it?

I love layering up for a cold ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 15 December, 2022, 09:41:02 pm
-7 on the way home tonight. No snow, just days of frost on the canal path.  Stopped at sainsbos on way home for a wee warm up before the last 4km

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52565816411_83784e2273_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2o64xRv)Minus 7 on the way home tonight (https://flic.kr/p/2o64xRv) by sg310 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/24775321@N02/), on Flickr
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 15 December, 2022, 09:43:25 pm
 :thumbsup:

Almost makes me miss commuting...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 15 December, 2022, 09:58:57 pm
Snow tyres this week.  Today the principle gave a shout out to anyone who cycled in (I wasn't there as I was teaching)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 15 December, 2022, 10:58:34 pm
I had lunch with a friend who said his car told him it was -7 this morning. I replied that my bike doesn’t have a thermometer.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 17 December, 2022, 07:49:28 pm
Cycled in all week and God it was cold. -7 a few mornings. Good news was it was dry so the main roads were ok all the way in/out. Usual thing of motorists were ok but some people had to go faster, undertake etc to get to the next queue. People at work agog that I cycled the 10 miles each way every day. It was wearing though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 20 December, 2022, 11:46:58 am
Last London commute of the year today.  Got in for a team breakfast, and heard that SWT staff are operating an overtime ban this week, so no trains outside 7am - 8pm, which would have screwed up a train commute.  That made the heavy rain between Hartley Wintney and Camberley more bearable. 

I wish temporary roadworks could go on strike.  7 separate sets of temporary lights this morning, including a 4-way stop at the Longcross roundabout where I as stationary for so long that I had a red image burned on my retinas when I set off, and another set at Trumpsgreen, which definitely weren't.  Eventually the car driver in front of me gave up - and drove through on red.  When we got to the other side, the battery pack for the alternate set had gone, so they were off, and the signal the way I was going was permanently on red.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 22 December, 2022, 02:51:58 pm
Rail fares to rise by 5.9% - https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-64066678 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-64066678)  That means that I will save 5.9% every time I commute by bike to London.  Although I do wonder if the fraction was chosen purely because it will keep my fare pennies below the pyschologically terrifying £50.  I didn't feel so bad when I was commuting regularly and buying season tickets, but now I travel up to 2 days a week it feels more painful even if I am actually spending less.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 22 December, 2022, 04:35:52 pm
Quote from: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 20 December, 2022, 11:46:58 am
Last London commute of the year today.  ....  7 separate sets of temporary lights this morning, including a 4-way stop at the Longcross roundabout where I as stationary for so long...

I especially hate this when its raining. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 02 January, 2023, 05:06:05 pm
Was planning to commute tomorrow, but the weather forecast is far to Rule #9 even for me.  However, it looks like it will be impractical for me to get my car serviced tomorrow as SWT have decided not to run trains all week so will aim to cancel my car service and ride in on Wednesday instead.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 04 January, 2023, 01:27:53 pm
Unusual commute today - commuted back home from Petersfield where the car is being serviced.  Decided not to reschedule the service appointment as Mrs CET has to take CET Junior 2 up to York for University at the weekend in said car.  Starting a commute up Stoner Hill was something different, although at least wasn't weighed down by change of clothes, laptop, etc.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 04 January, 2023, 03:11:07 pm
Stoner Hill really sounds inappropriate for a commute.  ::-)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 04 January, 2023, 08:27:22 pm
Trying to explain Stoner Hill to Americans is entertaining. 

I avoided it on the way back, primarily because I had to take a call part way down (if I waited until after the call I wouldn't have got back in time to recover my car).  My route via the Col du Sutton Common, Binsted, and Liss turned out to be 3 miles further than the way out, which had me TT'ing along the cycle path by the A3 between Liss and Petersfield.

Picked up the car and drove up Stoner Hill, having been warned that the A3 was a parking lot and there was a cyclist doing an inappropriate commute near the top.  To give them credit they were going a fair lick for a dark and stormy night.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Vernon on 04 January, 2023, 11:37:14 pm
Quote from: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 04 January, 2023, 08:27:22 pm
Trying to explain Stoner Hill to Americans is entertaining. 


Get them to ride up it. The sponge lungs, lights flashing behind the eyes and altered sense of reality by the time you reach the top should explain it well enough.  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 05 January, 2023, 08:48:10 am
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 04 January, 2023, 03:11:07 pm
Stoner Hill really sounds inappropriate for a commute.  ::-)

It is a route from the appropriately named village of Steep.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Rod Marton on 05 January, 2023, 12:45:47 pm
That takes me back! Many years ago, when I lived in Petersfield, Stoner Hill was on my commute. OK, it was straight out of the house and uphill, but it was worth it for the ride home when you could freewheel the last couple of miles. And it was far preferable to the alternative route through Liss, which even then seemed to have an inordinately large amount of traffic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 05 January, 2023, 08:25:04 pm
It is a regular on our club runs, with a regroup point by the Tractor outlet at the very end just before the crossroads for the Pub with no Name whose empty pub sign has been defiled by a brown sign for the White Horse.  It did, at least before lockdown, do a great sandwich lunch and has the great advantage of everywhere being downhill afterwards.

The hillyness of the area is notable - there's even a Steep Marsh, which takes some thinking about.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 05 January, 2023, 10:05:59 pm
Got the commute to avonmouth tomorrow. First one for the new year. Wish they opened the back lane back up & getting fed up with the main road section
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 06 January, 2023, 11:53:31 am
Which back lane is that?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Under the arches on 06 January, 2023, 05:26:21 pm
By the old bridge. You have to go down the main road. Not the nicest. Also punctured on the way in & had to change a tube in the dark. Happy I managed to do it properly
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 10 January, 2023, 09:20:13 am
Aother cold wet commute BUT i've acquired a GoreTex Shakedry insulated jacket. Astounding bit of kit. lets you run lighter weight clothing underneath it yet after 10 miles in the wind/rain I arrive with my top half dry. Like voodoo except its material technology and it actually works.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 10 January, 2023, 11:51:16 am
Quote from: Under the arches on 06 January, 2023, 05:26:21 pm
By the old bridge. You have to go down the main road. Not the nicest. Also punctured on the way in & had to change a tube in the dark. Happy I managed to do it properly
That's been closed for at least two years. What on earth are they doing there?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 11 January, 2023, 07:57:41 am
That was strange. No water coming from the sky, none on the roads, and didn't need to drip dry the bike on arrival. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 18 January, 2023, 01:22:09 pm
The conditions were favourable for one my my favourite off-road commutes. Sadly something has changed and the previously negotiable route is now more like an Iron Man event, with bogs, fences locked gates and barbed wire.

There was always a bit of a problem because it was a footpath, not a bridleway, but it was very manageable. But the route is now locked at one point at least, although there was a sign referring to "the footpath", suggesting that it is (or is now) elsewhere. I'll have to investigate.

Anyway, it was quite exciting and a proper workout: I had to lift the bike and gear over two 4' fences, and cycle through 100m+ of bog (not very deep, thankfully).

I was feeling pretty pleased with myself, which is probably why I nearly cycled into a car when I was emerging at a T junction! The car really wasn't there when I first looked right, then all of a sudden it was when I looked right again a second later. Probably came out of the car park on my right.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 19 January, 2023, 10:07:17 am
Late one at work yesterday, then hit the deck on the way home thank to some black ice.  I have a nice big bruise.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 19 January, 2023, 11:29:17 am
Frostier & indeed icier in SE London today than the last couple of mornings, despite being a bit milder and no rain all week. How?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 19 January, 2023, 11:33:36 am
I guess the road surface has lost all the stored heat from last week so each sub-zero night lets the surface start from a lower temperature each morning. This morning's commute was ridden very gingerly in places
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hubner on 21 January, 2023, 10:09:46 pm
This week I did 6 days of dry commutes on my non mudguarded bike, which is a first I think.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 30 January, 2023, 09:21:33 am
Today it wasn't cold and icy, I didn't have any commitments at home or outside London, and so set off for the first commute of the year.  Surprisingly peaceable and a nice sunrise.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 16 February, 2023, 07:16:51 pm
Commuted yesterday.  Spent an hour this evening cleaning salt-glazed titanium as it rained just enough to coat everything with a layer of Belgian toothpaste.  Surrey Schools were on half term.  Putney was virtually empty - had a clear run without having to put a foot down all the way onto the Bridge.  Clearly all the eco-friendly children care enough about the environment to insist to their parents they could walk to school.  :facepalm:  The elves (or is it goblins) have been installing new potholes left right and centre, and reopening a fair few the councils patched up last year.  On the plus side, no lunatic truck driver decided to overtake me at danger this time.  Longing for the days to draw out and better weather to arrive.  Perhaps my legs will be good enough not to grovel up Red Road on the way back.  Or perhaps they were never good enough and I'm being too ambitious.  Did save the £47 that SWR would have charged me for the trip  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 21 February, 2023, 12:07:33 am
I really enjoy seeing the mornings and evenings lighten.  My garmin adds about 2 or 3 mins to when it changes to/from daylight mode each day.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 27 February, 2023, 08:09:09 am
And a lovely day to you too, Mr. cheerful cautious man, in your weed-smelling van.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 09 March, 2023, 12:54:27 pm
It was a bit snowy.  Not sure I can claim it as cycling when I walked the bike 90-95% of the time.
Slow clap to the moton who decided he needed to overtake a parked car and drive straight at me.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 14 March, 2023, 06:22:25 pm
I only made up my mind to ride at the last moment this morning, but was very glad I had.
At one of the real pinch points in the village we have a bus meeting a bin wagon. Each with a queue of cars behind it. The road is sufficiently narrow there that I had to get off and walk along the pavement (footway for the pedants) to get past.
The bus finally overtook me about one and a half miles later and the queue of trailing cars were still passing when I turned off into work.
 :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 16 March, 2023, 09:36:11 am
After a lurgy and then icy weather it was nice to commute in again today, even if there was a bit of light rain to start.  Only noticeable difference of the rail strike was that the queue for Putney Bridge was even longer than usual 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 28 March, 2023, 01:08:41 pm
First cycle commute to the new office location, which Strava says is 32km away, so a bit longer than I'm used to.  On the plus side, the new office has a shower, so I could skip having one at home before I set off. Wash kit already stashed in my desk drawer.

Drizzle as I stepped out of the door, which eased off. The first part of the route is a Rude Hill, but one I was over that it's pretty flat.  Got waylaid chatting to a mate as I swept through Horley, but the bigger delay was a bit further along.

At around 26km the left hand pedal started feeling wrong. At first I though it was a worn cleat, but closer inspection revealed the crank had come loose. Arse. Saddle pack multi tool does not go as far as an 8mm hex key. More arse. Tried putting very little pressure on the left side and riding gently. Then the crank fell off. Much more arse.  Considered phoning the office to get rescued but decided against and pedalled on, one legged, with about 4km to go.  The route goes down country lanes, so no bike shops, but then I chanced upon a car repair place operating from a barn. A Very Nice Man leant me his box of Snap On allen keys and I was away.

Hopefully I haven't buggered up the crank and the journey home is less eventful.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 28 March, 2023, 01:27:09 pm
The left crank has fallen off the Perfectly Good Gentleman’s Mountain Bicycle more than once but the crank and bb axle seem to be in reasonable order still.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 28 March, 2023, 01:31:53 pm
I have
(a) nicked an 8mm allen key from the jbexshop.
(2) given it "plenty of welly" to tighten up the crank bolt.
(iii) placed said allen key in my bar bag for the journey home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cygnet on 28 March, 2023, 09:47:34 pm
Surprisingly hard to search and find (on the internet) for the adaptor from 6mm to 8mm hex key. I used to have a bunch of them that came on multitools, but they walk away and hide in RL too.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 29 March, 2023, 10:38:09 pm
Quote from: cygnet on 28 March, 2023, 09:47:34 pm
Surprisingly hard to search and find (on the internet) for the adaptor from 6mm to 8mm hex key. I used to have a bunch of them that came on multitools, but they walk away and hide in RL too.

Allegedly a bodge/work around is to use an M5 nut (which is 8mm across flats) threaded onto an M5 bolt into the 8mm hole then put use a suitable (4mm?) allen key.  You need a second M5 nut to act as a jam nut to lock the M5 bolt in place. I doubt sufficient torque could be applied to fix a crank on through such a tiny allen key. And anyway, my Box of Doom that contains misc small nuts and bolts was at home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teamerchant on 04 April, 2023, 08:55:05 am
First commute in ages - new job and new house, but ancient bike that I bought at uni nearly 20 years ago. New work has lovely luxurious showers (which I didn't need as I attempted to leave ego at home and just pootle) and it's half term so roads are quiet. I'd forgotten how nice it is to cycle in!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 04 April, 2023, 08:57:45 am
Take 2 of the commute. 

Changes from last time:
1.  Sunny!
2. Cold
3. Nothing fell off the bike

Take that as a win.  Might tweak the route through Horley to cut out some of the traffic lights.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 04 April, 2023, 10:32:11 am
https://cycle-street.co.uk/m2b0s283p21932/Topeak-Spare-8mm-Hex-Bit-For-Hummer-II-HEXUS-II-and-X-Tools

But from somewhere that is in stock. Like

https://www.swinnertoncycles.co.uk/topeak-tools-8mm-bit-x-tool-p87274 or
https://www.swinnertoncycles.co.uk/topeak-tools-spare-8mm-hex-bit-for-hummer-ii-hexus-ii-and-x-tools-p89192
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 04 April, 2023, 12:35:52 pm
Quote from: cygnet on 28 March, 2023, 09:47:34 pm
Surprisingly hard to search and find (on the internet) for the adaptor from 6mm to 8mm hex key. I used to have a bunch of them that came on multitools, but they walk away and hide in RL too.

It occurred to me the other day that I could use one of those with my impact driver to free a pedal from the crank without the faff of removing the chainset from the bike to hold it still enough to apply a sufficiency of ham-fisted monkey-force.  Astoundingly, I found one rattling amongst the other hex bits in my Halfrauds socket set, and it Just Worked.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 04 April, 2023, 01:43:09 pm
Quote from: Tim Hall on 28 March, 2023, 01:08:41 pm
At around 26km the left hand pedal started feeling wrong. At first I though it was a worn cleat, but closer inspection revealed the crank had come loose. Arse. Saddle pack multi tool does not go as far as an 8mm hex key. More arse. Tried putting very little pressure on the left side and riding gently. Then the crank fell off. Much more arse.  Considered phoning the office to get rescued but decided against and pedalled on, one legged, with about 4km to go.

Impressive. Chapeau.

I see you're sorted for an 8mm key now but in case you are interested, this tool (https://int.crankbrothers.com/products/m17?setstore=1&lang=en) has an 8mm allen key (and most of the other things you're likely to need). I haven't used it on a crank bolt yet but - even if it doesn't offer enough leverage to make it permanently tight - I think it would do get-you-home tight.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 04 April, 2023, 09:58:58 pm
That's my second favourite multitool.

https://www.ternbicycles.com/uk/accessories/472/tern-tool is my first, on account of the 15mm spanner.  The 8mm hex on it is probably a bit tricky to apply any force with, mind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 04 April, 2023, 10:13:59 pm
Quote from: Kim on 04 April, 2023, 09:58:58 pm
That's my second favourite multitool.

https://www.ternbicycles.com/uk/accessories/472/tern-tool is my first, on account of the 15mm spanner.  The 8mm hex on it is probably a bit tricky to apply any force with, mind.

A monkey for a multi tool!?  That's a bit steep, ne c'est pas?

Anyway, today's commute home was mostly uneventful and dry. Spotted a kingfisher above a flooded ditch, which was nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 05 April, 2023, 12:46:59 am
Quote from: Tim Hall on 04 April, 2023, 10:13:59 pm
Quote from: Kim on 04 April, 2023, 09:58:58 pm
That's my second favourite multitool.

https://www.ternbicycles.com/uk/accessories/472/tern-tool is my first, on account of the 15mm spanner.  The 8mm hex on it is probably a bit tricky to apply any force with, mind.

A monkey for a multi tool!?  That's a bit steep, ne c'est pas?

Didn't spot that.  Probably the old pretending-not-to-be-out-of-stock trick.

Suffice to say it was a sensible price when I bought one.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 05 April, 2023, 10:08:36 am
A first today - a commute to a client site rather than the office.  The combination of (a) being in a cycling distance, (b) having adequate cycle parking facilities, and (c) being there regularly enough to be able to stash some things in their office and get the lie of the land hasn't come up very often.  Slightly busy route from Basingstoke (after a quite start through Mortimer West End and Ufton Nervet) through Pangbourne, Streatley, Wallingford, Stadhampton and along the Cowley Road.  Should be here one day a week for the next 6 weeks, so will hopefully put some refinements to the route as the weather improves, and will no doubt have to include Streatley Hill on a commute purely because it is there and so Rule #5 requires me to ride up it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 12 April, 2023, 01:03:15 pm
Same commute as last week, but somewhat quicker.  I think there was a stealthy tailwind that was helping me, but I'm going to pretend that my legs were that much better.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teamerchant on 18 April, 2023, 09:30:11 am
Who let all the tw*ts in cars out?? :(

Today's commute not only had a headwind but loads of cars overtaking me, then pulling in right in front of me to allow traffic coming the other way to get past parked cars. If they had just waited behind me, I could carry on past the obstruction with no problems, and their progress would have been at exactly the same speed.

Bah.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 18 April, 2023, 10:31:53 am
Quote from: teamerchant on 18 April, 2023, 09:30:11 am
Who let all the tw*ts in cars out?? :(

Today's commute not only had a headwind but loads of cars overtaking me, then pulling in right in front of me to allow traffic coming the other way to get past parked cars. If they had just waited behind me, I could carry on past the obstruction with no problems, and their progress would have been at exactly the same speed.

Bah.
Exactly this, depressingly often. Oh for a handlebar mounted death ray.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 18 April, 2023, 01:24:50 pm
Weather forecast was looking good when I checked last night and I need to do more cycling, so got ready for a ride in today.

Good run, despite the slight head wind.  One kestrel (hurrah), some English Longhorn cattle (hurrah) and some crappy flytipping (wankers). Must make a note of its postion on the way home.

Forecast for the return trip is a bit chillier but a nice tail wind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 19 April, 2023, 09:26:53 pm
Hard work out to Oxford today as it was a cross-headwind on the right shoulder.  However, it was mostly a tailwind on the way back, so decided to add Streatley Hill to the return commute, which was silly, but great fun once I had winched myself up it, in about 250% of the time Andrew Feather took to win the National Hill Climb title, but he wasn't carrying a spare set of clothes, laptop and accessories in a Carradice Nelson Longflap, so I think he was cheating.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 20 April, 2023, 09:56:37 pm
Headwind all the way all week.  Bollox
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 20 April, 2023, 10:06:19 pm
Quote from: fd3 on 20 April, 2023, 09:56:37 pm
Headwind all the way all week.  Bollox

 ??? ... except for the tailwind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smileydave on 21 April, 2023, 08:39:36 am
First commute home from London to Bedfordshire since pre-LEL. Abysmal performance on all fronts. It was lovely at the weekend, so dressed for spring - I could see frost on the rooves from the station platform in the morning. It rained, there was a headwind, traffic was terrible, heartrate all over the place, cramp in the calves, numb hands, and on the final run-in I couldn't change down with my left hand, and had to stop to operate it with my right. Speed was about 60% of when I used to do it every week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mango Smith on 21 April, 2023, 08:53:33 am
A rainy trawl across Norfolk this morning but, so my surprise, fast and enjoyable. Always keep dry kit at work for occasions such as these so, all in all, feeling quite pleased with myself!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teamerchant on 25 April, 2023, 09:23:01 am
Lovely sunshine, if a bit chilly. And I got overtaken by EVERYONE today. Bah.

I am, however, picking up an ebike for a month long trial next month, courtesy of my workplace try a bike scheme.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 25 April, 2023, 09:30:46 am
Chilly start in the spring sunshine. About a mile in I realised chosing mitts instead of full fat gloves was a mistake. Apart from that, all good.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 25 April, 2023, 12:47:57 pm
Wearing Flanders (Flandria?) gloves today and regretted not having something thicker.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 25 April, 2023, 10:22:27 pm
Students are back in Oxford.  And the Botley Road is closed.  Which means traffic chaos.  But once I'm past the ring road it's all country roads back to Basingstoke - so it was a delightful ride back.  Took in Streatley Hill again, was a bit quicker this time, purely because I got a run at the lights.  Was distinctly parky this morning, and I was a bit nervous of ice on the roads as Benson is a well-known frost hollow, but the ice man stayed away.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smileydave on 27 April, 2023, 09:09:36 am
44 miles back from London to Bedfordshire. Warmer and drier than last week. Managed to hit every red light in North London. Pleased to see new (to me) cycle lanes on the Finchley Road. Heart rate was much lower for a faster speed, but it was still 3 hours 50 for a ride that used to take me 2:45. sob...
Misery aside I've now saved a whole £16.10 by only getting a single into town instead of a return. (Spent it all already on breakfast with my bruv, but I'd have spent that money anyway, so it's still a saving, right?)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teamerchant on 02 May, 2023, 09:08:37 am
Forgot various items of clothing today so my style is.... eclectic  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 03 May, 2023, 09:38:14 am
Legs weren't very keen on a 42 mile commute to Oxford after the Porkers on Sunday/Monday but as there are no trains and the traffic on the A34 is dreadful, gave them a talking to and they reluctantly propelled me through sunny Berkshire and Oxfordshire.  At some point this year I will have to tot up the rail fares saved by cycling instead of taking the train but suspect it will get close to £1000.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 09 May, 2023, 10:10:04 am
Oxford today.  Emboldened by being out on the club run on the race bike for the fast time this year came in at a speed i will probably regret on the way back.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 09 May, 2023, 10:18:35 am
Nearly taken out by a rigid-body truck pulling out from Twickenham Stadium. He sat fiddling with his phone at the next set of traffic lights. I really need to get that bike commuting camera...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 09 May, 2023, 10:27:32 pm
I thought I was going to get lucky on the way back from Oxford today.  It started a little damp, but dried up and I could see the top of the Chilterns.  Mrs CET had warned me that there had been horrendous thunderstorms in Basingstoke, so I avoided the A329 as it had been flooded enough in the morning.  The rain started in Benson and got steadily harder as I climbed up to Nuffield.  It was the opposite of the boiling frog syndrome, it just got progressively harder, gradually so that I didn't notice it until it was close to a cloudburst.  The roads through Checkendon and Woodcote were awash.  I was on the brakes all the way down Whitchurch Hill.  Finally I saw clear sky ahead but there was still 20 minutes more rain.  I began to wonder if I should take up triathlon.  The fields near the police college were running water and making a river of the road.  I haven't seen it as wet in the area in the last 15 years.

The Carradice saddlebag kept everything dry and the Garmin 1040 didn't play up like the 1030 almost certainly would.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 10 May, 2023, 08:16:13 am
Me.

 ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smileydave on 10 May, 2023, 09:36:16 am
Another 44 miles back from London to Bedfordshire. the good garmin was out of juice, the backup was on 3% battery. used strava on the phone to record, and switched off data and wifi etc. to husband the battery, which had the side effect that my wife couldn't see where I was. Quicker out of London than last time. The backup lasted an hour and a half or so, so managed to control heart rate and power reasonably, but thereafter I was riding on feel alone. got rained on coming into St Albans, then again coming out, then on and off all the way home. Managed to avoid the torrential downpours, but they'd been through and there was a lot of water on the roads. some were like rivers. Slightly faster than last time, certainly felt much easier.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 10 May, 2023, 10:22:37 am
Quote from: L CC on 10 May, 2023, 08:16:13 am
Me.

 ;D ;D ;D

A big two thumbs up from me
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teamerchant on 10 May, 2023, 10:48:43 am
Got into work after a gorgeous spring cycle, to find email about urgent meeting with Very Important BigWigs this afternoon. Cycle straight home again to replace slightly less-than-fresh jeans and jumper with attire more suitable to meeting Big Wigs, and then took the car for the 2nd trip to work in smart clothes. Not how I expected today to go....
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smileydave on 18 May, 2023, 08:25:15 am
Fifty miles home from London to Bedfordshire. There are a lot of traffic lights in London. I shouldn't be surprised - I've lived and worked in London for forty odd years. But last night seemed to be something special. 38 red lights in the first hour, maybe 50-60 overall. I lost count. In the first hour I was hitting (or braking significantly for) a red light on average every (counts on fingers...) 94 seconds. and that includes the waiting time at the lights (although strava tells me I only had ten minutes stationary). It really grinds you down, the constant slowing and accelerating. I very quickly failed at the game of trying to complete the whole ride without putting a foot down.
Plus three road closures - one was a building site, so I had to go around it; one was roadworks, avoided via the pavement, and one was a police closure - went through anyway and it turned out to be a two car smash that was getting tidied up - they kindly let me and another cyclist go through, which was a relief as it would have been a 4km diversion.
Red lights made it grindingly slow, as did the lack of fitness. My attempts to keep the heart rate at a reasonable level went out the window after the first three hours... 4.5 hrs in all.
This is my fourth commute home this year - the difference between the single and return journey is £9.45 so I've saved £37.80 so far. Pretty soon I'll have paid off the cost of the rack and panniers and I'll be laughing all the way to the bank
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 20 May, 2023, 03:24:26 pm
On way back crossed a cyclist on an unregulated (no need to pedal) ebike with small child/baby balanced at the front ... but at least said child/baby had a helmet.
 :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 21 May, 2023, 09:59:34 am
Doored on Friday evening. That's it. No more going up the inside. I'll do the sensible thing and get in the middle of the lane. The driver asks if I'm alright. I've been knocked off into the road by your door. My hand is swollen by being trapped between the bars and the door edge and my right side took the fall. Neck hurts, bar tape ripped, all the usual stuff.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 21 May, 2023, 09:08:03 pm
Ow  :( GWS.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teamerchant on 22 May, 2023, 10:26:48 am
Ouch, Pumpkin!
Completely unremarkable commute in, except surely it should be warmer by now??
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 22 May, 2023, 11:41:34 am
Quote from: pumpkin on 21 May, 2023, 09:59:34 am
Doomed on Friday evening. That's it. No more going up the inside. I'll do the sensible thing and get in the middle of the lane. The driver asks if I'm alright. I've been knocked off into the road by your door. My hand is swollen by being trapped between the bars and the door edge and my right side took the fall. Neck hurts, bar tape ripped, all the usual stuff.

Sounds rough. I hope you are recovering. You should at least record the details of the injuries and go to A&E or an urgent care centre to be assessed.

Did you get the driver’s details?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 22 May, 2023, 11:43:21 pm
In three commutes have gone from winter to summer!

Also, pumpkin, gws - ouch!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 23 May, 2023, 08:07:04 am
Shorts.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teamerchant on 23 May, 2023, 08:59:32 am
Unremarkable commute but someone in the work changing room had the most AMAZING pair of sunshine yellow padded shorts. I need them in my life but decided it was completely inappropriate to accost them and demand to know from whence they had purchased them :(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 23 May, 2023, 09:16:35 am
Quote from: teamerchant on 23 May, 2023, 08:59:32 am
Unremarkable commute but someone in the work changing room had the most AMAZING pair of sunshine yellow padded shorts. I need them in my life but decided it was completely inappropriate to accost them and demand to know from whence they had purchased them :(

https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=64068.msg1334462#msg1334462

Like these? These are Assos on Flat Earth Bob (NOTP)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 23 May, 2023, 09:27:53 am
Quote from: L CC on 23 May, 2023, 09:16:35 am
Quote from: teamerchant on 23 May, 2023, 08:59:32 am
Unremarkable commute but someone in the work changing room had the most AMAZING pair of sunshine yellow padded shorts. I need them in my life but decided it was completely inappropriate to accost them and demand to know from whence they had purchased them :(

https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=64068.msg1334462#msg1334462

Like these? These are Assos on Flat Earth Bob (NOTP)
Is he called Flat Earth Bob because he has a Rainbow flat type attitude? Something along the lines of "How hilly is your ride in the Pennines, Bob?" "It's flat!"
https://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=Rainbow%20Flat
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teamerchant on 23 May, 2023, 09:38:29 am
They were more underweary - don't think they were outerwear. At work so won't risk Googling  ;D
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teamerchant on 23 May, 2023, 09:40:18 am
Also I think Flat Earth Bob is to be commended for the coordinated cycle attire. We should aspire to such elegance - we've got to wear clothes, might as well make them look good:)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hatler on 23 May, 2023, 12:17:48 pm
An almost entirely incident free commute. A lot more electric bikes than when I was doing this run pre-pandemic.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teamerchant on 24 May, 2023, 09:30:07 am
Yes, there are a lot more ebikes around, aren't there? I will be joining their ranks- picking one up for a month long trial courtesy of my employer.

Lovely sunshine this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teamerchant on 26 May, 2023, 11:05:24 am
Oooh. First commute via e-bike (with stop along the way).

Completely different. Normal clothes, and minimal effort. A complete joy, if I'm honest. It's like constantly cycling down a very gentle hill.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 31 May, 2023, 09:09:42 am
Based on how dry it has been and a 10% chance of rain, wore the new blingy shoes that match the club kit.  Welcomed into Berkshire and South Oxfordshire by drizzle.  Fortunately not enough to damp the roads, so the shoes still look blingy. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 31 May, 2023, 10:40:31 am
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 22 May, 2023, 11:41:34 am
Quote from: pumpkin on 21 May, 2023, 09:59:34 am
Doomed on Friday evening. That's it. No more going up the inside. I'll do the sensible thing and get in the middle of the lane. The driver asks if I'm alright. I've been knocked off into the road by your door. My hand is swollen by being trapped between the bars and the door edge and my right side took the fall. Neck hurts, bar tape ripped, all the usual stuff.

Sounds rough. I hope you are recovering. You should at least record the details of the injuries and go to A&E or an urgent care centre to be assessed.

Did you get the driver’s details?

its an accident. he didnt look/think and I should have NOT gone near the door. thank you all for your concern. he and I had words but its down to me to keep myself safe, not to rely on hope that a door wont open.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jamm13dodger on 04 June, 2023, 08:32:53 am
Quote from: pumpkin on 31 May, 2023, 10:40:31 am
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 22 May, 2023, 11:41:34 am
Quote from: pumpkin on 21 May, 2023, 09:59:34 am
Doomed on Friday evening. That's it. No more going up the inside. I'll do the sensible thing and get in the middle of the lane. The driver asks if I'm alright. I've been knocked off into the road by your door. My hand is swollen by being trapped between the bars and the door edge and my right side took the fall. Neck hurts, bar tape ripped, all the usual stuff.

Sounds rough. I hope you are recovering. You should at least record the details of the injuries and go to A&E or an urgent care centre to be assessed.

Did you get the driver’s details?

its an accident. he didnt look/think and I should have NOT gone near the door. thank you all for your concern. he and I had words but its down to me to keep myself safe, not to rely on hope that a door wont open.

While I applaud the idea I think that least having their registration and a few more details might have been an idea in case any long term injuries show up later. The change to the highway code  (last year?) Encourage the use of the Dutch reach to reduce this sort of thing happening and very much put the onus on the person opening the door.

It's probably too late now though and I think in the moment I would have done the same as you TBH.

https://road.cc/content/news/what-dutch-reach-289813
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 06 June, 2023, 11:00:23 am
Puncture on the back wheel - which meant a puddle of tubless stuff and a quick reinflation before I set off.
Wife got a puncture on the back wheel which her repair spray did not fix.  This means bus home with rear tyre, car tomorrow for school run, etc.
But ton9ight her puncture will be fixed, whereas mine will likely persist.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smileydave on 08 June, 2023, 10:16:51 am
The sun came out for the first time in several weeks. 44 miles in the sunshine. 19 red lights in the first twenty minutes, but notwithstanding that, I still knocked 12 minutes off, and would have been 15 if my front camera hadn't launched itself while I was belting down a hill, followed by the chain unshipping as I screeched to a halt to collect it.
In news that will come as a shock to many, it turns out that if I ride my bike regularly I get better at it.
Managed to get lost on a dead straight road that I ride regularly - a signpost pointing in the wrong direction threw me, and I started to doubt myself, and the general sameyness of north london architecture did nothing to convince me that I hadn't missed my turn.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: telstarbox on 09 June, 2023, 09:26:06 pm
My commute in London had a minimum of 25 sets of lights. Now I'm in Kent it's longer but only 4 sets of lights - less chance to take a breather! I quite often go for 20 mins plus without putting a foot on the tarmac.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 10 June, 2023, 02:13:00 am
I had about eighty sets when I worked next door to Southwark Cathedral, but then I found myself working in Harlow and had about a tenth of that over twice the distance.  Best performance was nine seconds stopped in a ride of about 55 minutes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smileydave on 12 June, 2023, 07:49:11 am
I once did the 45 miles home in 3.5 hours without putting a foot down, which I was very pleased about, but was inevitably busting for a wee.
Largely down to luck with the lights rather than trackstanding skills.
No idea on the total number of lights, but it's quite a lot. I'll try to count them this week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teamerchant on 12 June, 2023, 10:49:59 am
Hot :/
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Adam on 12 June, 2023, 08:58:54 pm
My commute is 350m the short way (with 1 set of lights) or 420m the long way (and no lights), depending upon which way I turn when I first set off.

I always go home the long way.

Every little helps.  And I do go past a Tesco Express.  :P
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 12 June, 2023, 09:05:36 pm
Quote from: Adam on 12 June, 2023, 08:58:54 pm
My commute is 350m the short way (with 1 set of lights) or 420m the long way (and no lights), depending upon which way I turn when I first set off.

If I turn left from my house to head to work, it's about 10 miles and 35 minutes to cycle there. If I turn right, it's about 23,000 miles and a considerably longer time...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 12 June, 2023, 10:47:26 pm
Collided with a seagull.  That’ll teach me not to brake or swerve when approaching them.   Not a nice experience at all, if I’d had a net I could have caught about half a dozen.   
Mercifully, I didn’t get shat on. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 14 June, 2023, 01:26:13 pm
Having used Oxford as my once-a-week cycle commute destination for the last couple of months, changed back to London.  Last time I had ridden into London was with several layers and big gloves, today it was shorts.  First time for the 'new' summer route in, the bit through Cobham tested the memory, having only ridden it once (the final tune to minimise traffic and maximise countryside), but there were no wrong turnings.

Have not tried to count traffic lights.  There were only three sets of temporary ones, which was an improvement on a PB of 7.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 14 June, 2023, 03:45:52 pm
Some cyclist behaving strangely up ahead, swerving across both lanes.  Probably some young oik cycling no hands.
...
That much was true, but he was swerving from one side of the road to the other because he was texting and not looking at the road. :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smileydave on 16 June, 2023, 09:40:06 am
Another 44 miles back to Beds in the sunshine. Hot and slow - drank all my water like a good boy. Special thanks to the car-driver who pulled out at me on a roundabout, then honked at me as though it was somehow my fault that he hadn't looked. 31/84 lights were red, a better ratio, but I countered this gain by being slower than usual.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 19 June, 2023, 09:18:11 am
Nothing to write home about on the London commute this morning, which is something to write home about  Very peaceable .  Managed to get from Richmond Park and across Putney Bridge without stopping and obeying all traffic lights.  That probably is something to write home about, come to think of it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 19 June, 2023, 09:58:10 am
I forgot to pack knickers.

In my defence, there's usually some here, and I often wear them (it's not really long enough a ride to justify Cycle Clothing) but today I had padding in my shorts and the cupboard, when I got here, was bare. As is my arse.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teamerchant on 20 June, 2023, 09:05:22 am
L CC - Been there, done that, also forgotten bra.

Today's was very wet. Had to dry t shirt with hairdryer for about 15 mins.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 21 June, 2023, 10:17:05 pm
Oxford commute today, explored a slightly scenic route on the way back.  Tagged onto three riders who overtook me on the A417 heading to Streatley.  "You doing a commute?"  "Yes"  "Where are you heading?"  "Basingstoke"  "F_____ H___"   ;D :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 22 June, 2023, 09:47:56 am
"F_____ H___" indeed.  Mr Google suggests ~47 miles and ~4hours. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smileydave on 23 June, 2023, 08:41:22 am
Managed to get as far as Finchley without putting a foot down, then found an old geezer lying in the road. so stopped to be a good samaritan. got him back to his house where he then fell again in his porch and couldn't get up. Couldn't get in to help him, so called an ambulance. Eventually he got the porch open, adn we got him into his house, found his wife who barely spoke English, rang his kids, hung around until the son got home so I could explain what had happened. added an extra hour or so.
Didn't put a foot down all the way home from there, so there's a moral victory of sorts...
Very humid, caught in a light shower - beautiful full width rainbow behind me, but too wide for the camera to do it justice (at least, over my shoulder, without stopping). Then in the chilterns the rain had been heavier. warm wet roads and rain cooled air meant that they were gently steaming, and all lit up in orange from the setting sun. Lovely. Again, the camera failed to do it justice.
Got home just as the lamposts were lighting up, after 5 hours on the road...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 23 June, 2023, 11:28:29 am
I came off.
Avoidance of head on bike v bike on a ridiculous piece of Sustrans- it used to be a maze in the slag heaps.

The other guy saw, so it was painful. Fat old ladies shouldn't end up strewn over gravel. He helped me up.

I BROKE A NAIL!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Kim on 23 June, 2023, 12:12:08 pm
Was the bike okay?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 23 June, 2023, 01:18:16 pm
Yes, bike's fine. Barely skipped a beat.
It wasn't enough of a sudden stop to trigger the emergency bat signal (Mr Smith loves having his early mornings interrupted by me harsh braking at junctions and my watch sending alerts) but the bruising is coming out now. Looks pretty grim, tbh.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 23 June, 2023, 03:17:12 pm
Quote from: smileydave on 23 June, 2023, 08:41:22 am
Managed to get as far as Finchley without putting a foot down, then found an old geezer lying in the road. so stopped to be a good samaritan. got him back to his house where he then fell again in his porch and couldn't get up. Couldn't get in to help him, so called an ambulance. Eventually he got the porch open, adn we got him into his house, found his wife who barely spoke English, rang his kids, hung around until the son got home so I could explain what had happened. added an extra hour or so.
Well done you, anyway. Did the ambulance ever turn up?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 23 June, 2023, 07:46:41 pm
On the shared path and heading to work. Saw a runner coming towards me, headphones on and looking at her phone. Now she is coming towards me in a diagonal pattern so I slow down actually stop. Just before she would run into me she looked up and was startled to see me there.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 24 June, 2023, 12:01:54 am
^ yeah, don't mind them not paying attention, but adding in the zig zag? FFS.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smileydave on 26 June, 2023, 08:03:18 am
Quote from: HTFB on 23 June, 2023, 03:17:12 pm

Well done you, anyway. Did the ambulance ever turn up?
I left as soon as the son got home. Rang 999 back to pass on his contact details, adn answer more questions. Then rang back later with some more info I'd remembered, only to be told that the son had rung and cancelled it. Oh well
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teamerchant on 26 June, 2023, 09:43:08 am
Glorious today - lovely sunshine and perfect temp. And completely uneventful by current standards, it would seem!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Diver300 on 27 June, 2023, 07:20:10 am
I rode to the train station today instead of driving the whole way for the first time in too long. I got up early and got the train that is half an hour earlier than I needed, so no pressure, little traffic


but the train has now not moved from when I got on it for over half an hour, due to points failure.

Update. Train was eventually cancelled.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 04 July, 2023, 02:31:40 pm
Yesterday - I stopped when I spotted someone trying to spin the front wheel. It was sufficiently pringled that it was only just within the forks. I slackened the v brakes off so that the wheel would at least turn. I explained that the wheel was fixable with the right tools (and even with some of the wrong ones) and issued lots of warnings about relying on the back brake before the rider carried on to work.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 04 July, 2023, 06:21:13 pm
Which idiot didn't check the weather forecast before work today?

I was fine riding in...  :facepalm:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 05 July, 2023, 09:30:44 am
Cooler this morning - arm warmers, leg warmers and gilet.  Put some welly in up Chiselhampton Hill because I could and no consequences afterwards.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 06 July, 2023, 08:42:38 am
Added a very pleasant dinner with the controller I worked with on LEL2013 and LEL2017 on the way back from Oxford last night.  Home late but very well fed.  Splitting the ride back into two legs seemed to make things go faster, contrary to my expectations.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 06 July, 2023, 09:25:23 pm
On the ride home got passed by someone who ... I would love to have something bad to say, but no - they just were much faster than me and impressively so.  They then threw in a track stand at the lights just to further stamp out their superiority.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 07 July, 2023, 09:31:20 am
I've given up with the "faster than thou" approach and quietly plod along with the "further than thou" thought in my head.  It's not visible, but it's still real.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 07 July, 2023, 10:50:53 am
I am not faster than everybody during my commute but my ego can mostly handle it. The difficult one was several decades ago when somebody with a baby-seat (empty) on the back rode away from me despite my best efforts. Given I was racing well at club level at the time, if I had caught him up, I would have suggested he try pinning a number on. Chapeau and all that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teamerchant on 10 July, 2023, 11:39:33 am
An absolutely gorgeous run into work this morning, alongside fields ready for harvest and under blue skies and sunshine.

When I am riding my sit up and beg bike, my competitive spirit goes out the window and I can be overtaken by anything. Otherwise my brain is incapable of not getting salty when I get overtaken, even tho I know I am in no way, shape or form fast.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 10 July, 2023, 01:39:21 pm
I decided to not use the max power up the hill as a kind of training effort.

Turns out, according to Training Peaks, I don't actually work harder, I just go slower.  ::-)

[When I arrived at work I discovered I had no lock, no clock-in card, no glasses, no work phone and no work uniform top. FFS. Did I even engage my brain at all prior to departure?]
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teamerchant on 11 July, 2023, 11:35:14 am
I got stung on the foot leaving the village by I know not what. It bloody hurt and my foot is now nice and swollen  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 11 July, 2023, 11:54:49 am
Curlew again.
I slowed to stop and take a photo only to discover a van behind me who thought I'd slowed to let him past before the passing place. Another car behind him, too, scaring off the bird. Doh. I hadn't heard either of them over the sound of my tyres on the freshly topdressed road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 14 July, 2023, 11:26:51 am
I ended up with two less spokes than I started with on Wednesday.  Well, that's not quite true, the first one snapped midway and I wound its remains around neighbouring spokes.  On the Wallingford bypass a second one pinged and is now absent without leave somewhere on the A4074.  Rode gingerly back, avoiding the temptation of Streatley Hill.  It needs some proper TLC anyway having racked up big potholed miles on Basingstoke - London - Basingstoke and Basingstoke - Oxford - Basingstoke.   

The office Google Spaces service for my team, however, are enjoying the daily commute photos taking whilst I am riding along.  As they mostly live and work in London - the idea of a river without houses next to it or more than one field next to another is foreign to them, and the company issue smartphone has clearly got some logic to take good sunrise/sunset photos.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 15 July, 2023, 09:37:55 pm
On the way home the other other evening. Last mile is downhill then about three quarters uphill @7% average. Start the downhill with traffic and a horse and cart (2 wheels) pulls out of a side road. It's a busy B road and now the traffic is backing up. I moved down the inside and start drafting the horse/cart. 7mph up the hill and its easy. Traffic backed up, cant overtake us due to the oncoming traffic until the road widened further up. Put a smile on my face the rest of the evening
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 17 July, 2023, 09:46:34 am
Just Stop Oil were busy walking at a snail's pace on all the roads approaching Parliament Square.  They were letting cyclists pass though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 17 July, 2023, 10:08:37 am
Quote from: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 17 July, 2023, 09:46:34 am
Just Stop Oil were busy walking at a snail's pace on all the roads approaching Parliament Square.  They were letting cyclists pass though.

Hopefully not carbon fibre ones
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 17 July, 2023, 10:15:37 am
Quote from: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 17 July, 2023, 09:46:34 am
Just Stop Oil were busy walking at a snail's pace on all the roads approaching Parliament Square.  They were letting cyclists pass though.
Ah, yes, I wondered briefly why the police were parked along the Lambeth Road, which is where they hang out when preparing to show up mob-handed. A bloke on Lambeth Bridge in JSO-branded hi-viz offered me a leaflet , which is excitingly organised of them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 17 July, 2023, 01:39:14 pm
Quote from: The Family Cyclist on 17 July, 2023, 10:08:37 am
Quote from: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 17 July, 2023, 09:46:34 am
Just Stop Oil were busy walking at a snail's pace on all the roads approaching Parliament Square.  They were letting cyclists pass though.

Hopefully not carbon fibre ones

Fortunately I hadn't lubed my chain before the ride.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: cycleman on 17 July, 2023, 06:40:35 pm
Your OK if you wax your chain of  course 😉
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teamerchant on 17 July, 2023, 09:19:30 pm
Unexpected Sudden Stop due to inadequately fastened pannier strap jamming itself in back wheel. Isn’t it interesting how long it takes your brain to stop going “OMGWTFPANICPANICPANIC” and try and think a sensible thought?

Strap removed, and we continued on our way.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 18 July, 2023, 12:15:14 am
A bit of a maintenance fail today, one of my front brake pads lost the pad bit.  The rivets must have rusted and it came off, and then the lever came right back.  I didnt have a 3mm allen key to try stuff, so I tried to lever the pads apart and ride home with only a rear brake.  The spring between the pads also got mangled.   
(https://dgtzuqphqg23d.cloudfront.net/sb9V7epzIaBvnxjQk64LSETZXLPP-04R3OxcXC9wQ5A-1536x2048.jpg)

New pads fitted and tested now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 18 July, 2023, 08:58:00 am
Something amiss with my front brake too. They're hydraulic discs and beyond my desire or capability to repair.
Earliest date for the shop is next Tuesday.

Gah.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 18 July, 2023, 11:54:40 am
Quote from: L CC on 18 July, 2023, 08:58:00 am
Something amiss with my front brake too. They're hydraulic discs and beyond my desire or capability to repair.
Earliest date for the shop is next Tuesday.

Gah.

My most recent bike purchase involved disk brakes, after an exciting brake issue descending the steep side of Bexleyhill.  But agree with you that when they have problems its a nuisance, so glad that I have a rim brake machine as a back-up.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teamerchant on 24 July, 2023, 10:22:41 am
I'm sorry, I thought this was supposed to be July??

Another wet commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 26 July, 2023, 11:12:25 pm
Just noticed strava now shows CO2 saved for rides flagged as commutes.  I must be pretty unobservant, I think its been there for a few months now. 8.83 KG of it saved today !
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teamerchant on 02 August, 2023, 10:38:11 am
I need a better waterproof that keeps me dry but also not hot:/
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 02 August, 2023, 06:39:43 pm
Gore one.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: chrisbainbridge on 02 August, 2023, 07:27:04 pm
Quote from: fd3 on 02 August, 2023, 06:39:43 pm
Gore one.
latest Gore.  amazingly good, amazingly expensive, amazingly poor durability
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 03 August, 2023, 09:29:01 am
After 3 days of using trains for logistical reasons (dropping off and picking up Mrs CET's car for service - will not go into details), cycle-commuted to Oxford today.  Bliss.  Even red traffic lights couldn't undermine the joy of being freed from ASLEF-reduced timetables, labyrinthine fare structures, seats that were designed for the average Briton 60 years ago even though the trains are only 20 years old, and a collapse of the ability to take credit card payments at London Bridge station that meant I missed my connection for the hourly train service to Petersfield.

And, having missed the most of the summer monsoon by being away on holiday and then on said trains, it was sunny.   :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 03 August, 2023, 12:01:36 pm
Pilates on the way home yesterday. Drenched en route to the class. Exited class to find a deluge in progress. No more than 10 metres into the ride: instant rear deflation. 5 minutes later: Uber.

 >:(

I really don't like my Brompton's brakes in the wet.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 04 August, 2023, 08:24:50 am
Not sure when I’ll be able to post this again:  rode in this morning on the world champs course, closed roads with barriers up for some of it.    :thumbsup:

Prob a PR on west george street descent but it might get pipped on Sunday.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: davelodwig on 04 August, 2023, 02:29:13 pm
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 03 August, 2023, 12:01:36 pm
Pilates on the way home yesterday. Drenched en route to the class. Exited class to find a deluge in progress. No more than 10 metres into the ride: instant rear deflation. 5 minutes later: Uber.

 >:(

I really don't like my Brompton's brakes in the wet.

When i was doing almost all my commuter miles in brum on my Brompton I replaced the brakes with something from shimano, levers and all.  Was a much better system after that.  Was quite a long time ago now though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 11 August, 2023, 06:32:47 am
Yesterday was my first bike commute since March 2000.  Much the same as it used to be, except that facilities management has atrophied under the last two CEOs (the bike shed is horrendous and most of the showers are broken).  Luckily, there are almost no fellow commuters, so the changing room is almost empty.  It used to be like the Black Hole Of Calcutta.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smileydave on 11 August, 2023, 08:01:32 am
9th commute of the year. the usual red lights interrupting my rhythm. Struggling post-whatever-covid-like-lurgy I've just had. Hot. Generally not a great deal of fun, but it was at least a nice day for it, and a summer's day as opposed to the day before which was distinctly autumnal.
And I rescued this little thumbling - not a mouse, as no ears. Vole? Shrew?:
(https://i.ibb.co/Nt1mXJQ/5c2e592e-a4f2-4b67-b795-71f961b9cabd.jpg)
He was stopped in the road, so I scooped him up, had a quick photo shoot and put him on the verge. Hope he found his mama.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rafletcher on 11 August, 2023, 09:31:01 am
Vole.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 04 September, 2023, 11:38:48 am
First commute post PBP.  Amazing what 800 miles of base training in 3 days does.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 08 September, 2023, 05:15:25 pm
First full house (5 rides in, in one week) in I don't know how long!

I wasn't even due in the office on Monday and Friday, but an urgent job came up today (sign a document with a pen - how quaint), and I forgot my security pass on Tuesday (the thing that gets me into the bike shed, the office, my locker and everything else) so ended up cycling to work twice (it was quicker than all the workarounds for a missing security pass, and more fun).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 12 September, 2023, 09:08:50 am
Took a scenic route to Oxford today, more little roads, and discovered a few more of the rat runs caused by Oxford's green-belt policy which has resulted in overgrown villages with limited public transport.  Oh - and the schools were back so Cowley Road was a logjam unless you were on two wheels  :smug:
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 12 September, 2023, 09:51:57 am
Wednesday last week was the first day since Jan 2021 that I did not commute by bike  :smug:

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teamerchant on 12 September, 2023, 10:20:00 am
The powers that be have put in a lovely long set of double yellow lines outside a school I cycle past, which means that there are no longer several hundred yards of people parking, and the road is no longer reduced to a single lane of frustrated motorists. It was *much* better.

Also sailed past a set of roadworks.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 12 September, 2023, 09:40:57 pm
First wet commute since April on the way back.  Discovered that the frame has worn a couple of holes in the Carradice bag so I think some duct tape will be deployed.  Have decided that Rule #9 didn't apply though as there was a tailwind home which offset any discomfort from the rain showers.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teamerchant on 13 September, 2023, 10:57:07 am
Weather has turned a bit more autumnal - quite chilly this morning!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 13 September, 2023, 01:14:05 pm
Quote from: Paul on 08 September, 2023, 05:15:25 pm
First full house (5 rides in, in one week) in I don't know how long!

Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 12 September, 2023, 09:51:57 am
Wednesday last week was the first day since Jan 2021 that I did not commute by bike  :smug:

Git.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teamerchant on 14 September, 2023, 10:23:52 am
The fields are a bit smelly at the moment. Bumped into two friends on the way in, which was nice.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 14 September, 2023, 05:21:09 pm
Chavvy area of town. Woman on footpath, dog off lead trotting in middle of psyclepath (there's a proper kerb between the two).

I ring my bell in the vain hope she'll call the dog to heel.

"Dogs don't know bells" calls Chav Woman, as if I'm the moron here.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teamerchant on 15 September, 2023, 09:35:49 am
Glorious weather, I didn't want to stop. The long way home, I think!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smileydave on 15 September, 2023, 11:40:40 am
13th commute of the year and the fastest so far. Would have been quicker were it not for the temporary lights around Bank.
I've now saved 122.85 (less the £60 or so it cost to sort out the pannier and rack.
Having said that, I'm convinced that the fastest I get, the luckier I get with the lights. My wife thinks this is rubbish, adn I can't come up with an explanation, but I'm sure it's true. Maybe now I'm fitter I'm more prepared to put in a little dig to get through them, without causing my HR to spike up
Camera light piled in early, so rode the last hour in the dark naughtily unlit.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 19 September, 2023, 10:15:42 am
Strong tailwind on the way in.  Made the Embankment a bit sketchy as lots of people were going faster than they normally do.  Expect it to be a very long ride back.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teamerchant on 19 September, 2023, 01:51:47 pm
Yes, my ride in was rather speedy :D

Tho nothing says Autumn like a conker on the head.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 19 September, 2023, 09:59:14 pm
Ride home qualified for Rule #5.  54 miles of unremitting headwind.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 20 September, 2023, 09:05:50 pm
Quote from: Sergeant Pluck on 12 September, 2023, 09:51:57 am
Wednesday last week was the first day since Jan 2021 that I did not commute by bike  :smug:
I don't think it's fair for me to play that game as my commute is too short.
Quote from: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 19 September, 2023, 09:59:14 pm
Ride home qualified for Rule #5.  54 miles of unremitting headwind.
About 50 miles less than that.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smileydave on 21 September, 2023, 08:29:02 am
Well, it was a bit damp coming home last night.
Lights piled in again - was expecting the camera light not to perform, so took my normal front light. Fully charged, it decided it wouldn't switch on. It's working now, sat on my desk, so not quite sure what's going on with it. After some effing and blinding, I've resolved to get a dynamo, once funds permit.
Only one driver flashed at me to put my lights on. It may have been dark on the inside of his little metal box, but given it was still broad daylight at the time, I ignored him.
Water everywhere, including one ankle deep flood, which, sans lights, took me rather by surprise.
Reasonably quick, but inevitably slowed by the lack of lights, floods, trials and tribulations etc.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 21 September, 2023, 11:44:19 am
Quote from: smileydave on 21 September, 2023, 08:29:02 am
Well, it was a bit damp coming home last night.
Lights piled in again - was expecting the camera light not to perform, so took my normal front light. Fully charged, it decided it wouldn't switch on. It's working now, sat on my desk, so not quite sure what's going on with it. After some effing and blinding, I've resolved to get a dynamo, once funds permit.
Only one driver flashed at me to put my lights on. It may have been dark on the inside of his little metal box, but given it was still broad daylight at the time, I ignored him.
Water everywhere, including one ankle deep flood, which, sans lights, took me rather by surprise.
Reasonably quick, but inevitably slowed by the lack of lights, floods, trials and tribulations etc.

The damp could have affected the lights.  My commute system is my Audax set-up of Lumicycles, but the standard commuter lights I've used have variable life-spans, none of them particularly long
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: aidan.f on 25 September, 2023, 01:01:08 pm
For a flattery light the Lumintop B01 https://lumintop.com/product/b01/ (https://lumintop.com/product/b01/) £25.90 from Ali-Express would be my recommendation.
Shaped beam, well sealed robust, replaceable battery. Protected 5000mAh battery for £13.99 https://www.nubattery.co.uk/keeppower-15a-5000mah---21700-battery-protected-button-top (https://www.nubattery.co.uk/keeppower-15a-5000mah---21700-battery-protected-button-top)
Nine hours at medium power  - 240 lumens  - when the battery get almost flat it switches to 15 lumens for a few more hours.
I have only used them for a few months  - my long-term test was a pair with four batteries used for Paris-Brest Paris. Only criticism - The bar clip is a bit chunky.
 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 25 September, 2023, 05:55:10 pm
Got about half way to work this morning to discover a large tree across the road. Room for me to get under it, but not for a car.
Made a change, I suppose.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: telstarbox on 25 September, 2023, 07:30:09 pm
Nice one.

Here in Kent a cyclist was killed by a falling tree - incredibly unlucky.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 26 September, 2023, 10:05:51 am
No fallen trees for me today.  Went via Christmas Common, so I guess they've all got a few weeks to live.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teamerchant on 26 September, 2023, 10:44:54 am
Today's was a rage-fuelled extravaganza of wankers. Twats the lot of them.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smileydave on 26 September, 2023, 11:56:35 am
This morning's commute was slow, because I was going out for breakfast, so was an hour later than usual, and the streets of London were full of cars; also, my breakfast date didn't show up. Camera light is refusing to even switch on, although it teases me with the charging LEDs. However, I have three spare front lights and a head torch today, so I'm hoping that at least one of them might work
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: chrisbainbridge on 26 September, 2023, 01:17:20 pm
Back to commuting yesterday and today. Beautiful day yesterday, pouring rain this am. Still made me happy though. Yesterday saw a raptor eating a dead squirrel and today a suicidal squirrel ran in front of me. So nice to be back.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 26 September, 2023, 05:10:51 pm
Today I commuted for the first time since 17/03/2020.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 26 September, 2023, 08:48:02 pm
👍
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smileydave on 27 September, 2023, 09:07:08 am
Last night's commute was faster, despite heavier traffic. I seem to be getting fitter. My lighting strategy held out. The fly12 camera light now won't even switch on, the lezyne superdrive, though fully charged, lasted a whole half hour, instead of 6. My third light started the battery warning light after five minutes, but held out to the end. I didn't need the fourth, but put it on anyway, and the headtorch remained in my pocket.
Warmer, and much drier than last Wednesday, but did have a heavy shower half an hour from the end to put a dampener on things
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: toontra on 02 October, 2023, 12:37:54 pm
Idiot Sainsbury's van driver pulled out right in front of me.  Had to brake hard to avoid a collision.  Either hadn't looked in the mirror or, more likely, had but thought fuck it - only a cyclist.

When I questioned him about the standard of his driving his opening gambit was the proverbial "you're not wearing a helmet or high-viz" (this was 11.30 am on a sunny clear road).  Things quickly degenerated into abuse so I took his reg but can't find any way of reporting this to Sainsbury's.  Just been on the phone for 20 minutes being messed about & then cut off.  Ideas?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 02 October, 2023, 04:01:28 pm
My garmin is now in night time display mode for most of my ride in.  A depressing wee reminder of the shortening daylight.   My shimano dynohub died and I’ve decided to go battery for this year.   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teamerchant on 03 October, 2023, 11:43:44 am
Our county council has gone a bit nuts with the double yellow lines lately, in advance of bringing in parking enforcement (assume this is a wheeze to raise revenue).

It has the bonus effect of radically improving one section of my commute, as cars can no longer obstruct an entire lane of traffic by parking. I emailed the council to say what a good job it was :D

I also didn't have to put my foot down once on the 7.5 mile commute.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smileydave on 04 October, 2023, 07:55:45 am
My garmin didn't go to daytime mode until I was halfway to the office, and I think went to nighttime mode twenty minutes earlier than last week. It was distinctly autumnal in the morning, but short sleeves all the way home. Slower than last week. traffic, not feeling great, but also felt stronger up the hills. If I hadn't had one light go red as I approached it, or got stuck behind a sketchy beer lorry I'd have hoovered up strava achievements all the way into the office. Frankly I should have got the train home, but as I'd have had to wait until 7 to take the full size bike back, I decided to just crack on - struggled to work hard enough to make my target heart rate on the flats, but was faster up the hills.
Only one traffic issue - two cars took the right fork at the green triangle, and indicated right. I thought about going up the left of them to turn right, but didn't like the attitude of the front car's wheels. Sure enough, despite indicating right, both cars turned left.
Lights held out - I had the bright idea of looking inside my big light and discovered that the sprung contact was bent sideways (because it's a terrible design) and periodically (due to the vibration) getting fouled by the plastic wrapper around the battery. trimmed it off and the flickering and inconsistency seems to have largely stopped. Hooray. Now I must dig out the spare battery and perform the appropriate surgery on that as well
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 04 October, 2023, 03:20:55 pm
it was a long time before dark - nautical twilight - civil twilight - Garmin telling me it was daylight today.  And some sod has put a 5.30 - 6 meeting in the calendar which means it will be dark for quite a bit of the way back too.  A reminder that cycling rules involving tan lines will soon be redundant can be confined to California.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 04 October, 2023, 10:43:43 pm
There was a lot of dark as I had a late meeting and decided to go back via Wantage so I could nudge the day's distance to a smidgen over 100 miles.  The smidgen was downhill so didn't matter.  There is a lot to be said for Lumicycle lights for assisting night speeds of excess of R1.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: chrisbainbridge on 06 October, 2023, 11:51:02 am
commuted in gentle rain to the hospital for my covid and flu vaccinations and then onto the office for a meeting and paperwork.  Thankfully meeting by Teams as I sit here in a pair of lightweight running shorts and a T-shirt with bare feet.
Home again this pm but by a longer route hopefully
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: chrisbainbridge on 07 October, 2023, 04:26:15 pm
commuted in again this morning then at lunchtime came home the long way of another 30km.  Windy but very warm
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smileydave on 11 October, 2023, 08:50:50 am
Knocked ten minutes off for the same heart rate. In a breakthrough of sports science it seems that all those hill repeats at weekends seem to be translating into leg strength.
Enlivened by somebody reversing out of their driveway into the road in front of me somewhere in St Albans, and more ridiculously a large leaf falling from a tree, looming large in the cone of my front light and then hitting me in the face.
Otherwise it was like a summer's night. probably the last one of the year
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 12 October, 2023, 05:28:11 pm
Shit got real today with my first bad weather commute for 3.5 years.  Needed lights both ways and got a bit damp.  Even more peds and drivers smoking cannabis than ever.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 17 October, 2023, 10:09:12 pm
Santa Claus' evil twin has been out and pulled that giant lever that makes all the hills steeper.

I know it's the fact that it is cold and dark and I'm wearing bib tights rather than shorts, but everywhere takes a bit longer to get to.  Freshened the route back from Oxford with a trip up Sulham Hill.  Short, steep and sheltered from a brisk Easterly that got brisker with all the gusto of a promotion happy manager with a new broom.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 18 October, 2023, 06:32:20 am
Due to finally getting a locker in my new job was able to cycle in yesterday. Knew would suffer on way home when was flying on way to work and sure enough was a battle into a head wind all way home. Looks like todays going to be the same.

Wearing less today as judged my gear on Mondays temp which was cold and yesterday was so much milder was sweating pretty soon
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smileydave on 18 October, 2023, 08:05:54 am
Quote from: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 17 October, 2023, 10:09:12 pm
...Short, steep and sheltered from a brisk Easterly that got brisker with all the gusto of a promotion happy manager with a new broom.

Fairly certain I was going into the teeth of a westerly on the way across the Chilterns last night. It wasn't strong enough to account for my slowness - put that down to bad luck with the lights and an incipient cold.
Layered up, but not as significantly as that - base layer and sleeves, no need for the no-longer-waterproof over the top. Toes were chilly though. It's that annoying time of year when it's too warm at the beginning of the ride and too cold at the end, but too short a ride to actually be worth stopping to do anything about it.
Second commute in a row without putting my foot down, which required some significant track standing, and one loop in the Keep Clear bit at some lights in St Albans
Lights lasted - rear shouted a low battery warning at me, but my fault for putting it on solid and bright, instead of flashing and dim (which is still pretty bright, but doesn't burn the eyes)- until nearly home when a road closure forced me onto a less familiar route and I hit some unexpected bumps and they disconnected. Concerned flashing from motorists, as if I didn't know I didn't have any lights, until I whacked it and it switched on again...
More concerned flashing from motorists earlier was met with the Vs, as I was well lit. Aggressive honking from another, who was upset that the learner driver in front of him was rightly cautious at overtaking me on a 50mph single carriageway.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Paul on 18 October, 2023, 01:01:51 pm
Poor anticipation by me this morning. I was approaching a small roundabout with 4 (including my approach) exits. It's often a bit Good, Bad, Ugly at this one, with everyone watching the entrance to their right, not realising that's what everyone else is doing, so that sometimes no-one is moving.

Anyway, this morning, the car stopped opposite me was waiting for the car to my left, which had just joined the roundabout. That usually means that I have enough time to get across before the car opposite can get on (it's a very small roundabout).

But not this morning! The car to my left was using the roundabout to do a u-turn, and had to brake not to drive into me. In my defence, the car was moving quite fast and performing an unexpected manouvere, but the danger arose because I was watching the car that I thought might be the risk, and not the car that was actually on the roundabout.

I gave a 'my fault' wave and lived to ride on.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 18 October, 2023, 06:54:00 pm
2nd commute today. Pretty much same as yesterday except with the added joy of it being wet on way home as well as even stronger wind which meant was pushing down hills to do around 22kph which I'd normally be doing 30+ with no effort

Having seen the forecast for next few days going to take the car. Do need to invest in some better waterproofs
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teamerchant on 19 October, 2023, 11:53:03 am
I wish the weather would sort itself out. Really quite warm on the way in today - too warm for waterproofs, and it was only mildly damp. I might have to time my ride home to avoid getting soaked though.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 19 October, 2023, 11:56:24 am
Yeah, after killer cold the last two days I was sweating and shedding clothes all the way to work.

I was helped by a tree that snagged my hat off!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teamerchant on 20 October, 2023, 10:15:27 am
Well that was wet ;D Need better overshoes and hope that my stuff is dry before I have to ride home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 20 October, 2023, 07:44:49 pm
A bit.
First time I have had to re-route because of floods.  Impressively flooded ford on the way in (as in river crossing, not car) blocked off by a fire engine.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 23 October, 2023, 10:27:55 am
Really cold this morning.  My medium gloves are fine once I get into the city but they are not good enough for the canal path which is about 3 degrees colder.  Apart from that, a pretty nice ride in
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 23 October, 2023, 06:17:25 pm
Was caught out a bit by it being a lot cooler then expected when left this morning. Was quiet as its half term and was out early. The sky to quote the unthanks was  the hour when wounded night begins to bleed and by the time got to work had warmed a bit

Home was hard as forgot to eat my afternoon snack bar and thr first 3 or so K has a lot of traffic and needing to take a lane so need to work but after that settled down and thankfully didn't have a stonking head wind this time.

Did have a panic as looks like I'll need my waterproof jacket tomorrow but couldn't find then remembered grabbed it on weekend when did shop with trailer on wife's bike so was innher basket

Done 3 commutes so far so around 90km and hopefully can keep doing as saves a lot in fuel in our old minivan
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 23 October, 2023, 08:25:13 pm
Here in Brum was less cool (but prob later in the day as not doing your milage).  Also not half term until next week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 24 October, 2023, 05:39:35 pm
OK as it looks like I'll be cycle commuting a lot till the spring at least I won't post every ride but today was notable for it being grim on way on but at least no wind and way home felt hard but was sunny and dry and ended up about 2kmh faster then usual. Legs are feeling it as not ridden much this year but for reasons I'll probably have to drive at least one day out of Thursday or Friday
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 24 October, 2023, 06:32:58 pm
On ride home a kid riding through the ford made me smile.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 24 October, 2023, 07:39:17 pm
Riding in was quiet, but cool. I think the long legged kit will have to appear from next week. At one point there were three cyclists, including me, and no cars which was very pleasant.

The ride home was interesting. A combination of mud from the fields, leaves and the heavy rain showers we've had, meant that there was water across the whole width of the road in a place I've never seen that happen before. Even the cars were having to slow down and take things carefully. No idea what tomorrow morning will be like!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smileydave on 26 October, 2023, 09:06:01 am
Eventful. A shame, because I was on excellent form.
Flew out of London, averaging 10mph+ for the first hour. Minor drama from a van having a tyre blowout - a sound like a gunshot, followed by scraping noises - and a ludicrously close pass from a taxi.
Had to give up on trying not to put a foot down when my rear light shouted at me that it was tired and switched itself off. Had to spend five minutes gently stroking and encouraging it, but coaxed it back to life on a different setting. Note to self: if carrying a backup rear light, make sure it's charged....
The main front light was predictably  problematic on the bumpy roads. Switched itself off on a dark descent, but the secondary was fine. I knew it was gravelly. so I slowed down to take it easy. Unfortunately, with all the recent rain there was more gravel than usual, and not where I expected it, so I lost the front wheel, tried to save it, hit the bank, and lost a fight with the hedge. I went over the handlebars and took some branches to the face, the pannier got launched off the rack, my spare (third) front light disappeared somewhere too. All very dramatic. Seemed to be quite a bit of blood, but not massively serious. a cut to the right eyebrow was the most dramatic and was actually dripping, plus a scarpe the shin and a couple more face scratches. I'll have a nice black eye pretty soon. Picked myself up, sorted myself out and got back going again. Front wheel needs looking at. I dont' think it's entirely round anymore. it feels odd when turning, and when I brake it seems to pull alternately left and right. Took it very easy on the way home, and got a good dose of sympathy.
Off to the LBS today, as the bike needs to be fit for the Upper Thames next weekend.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 26 October, 2023, 12:36:53 pm
Quote from: smileydave on 26 October, 2023, 09:06:01 am
Eventful. A shame, because I was on excellent form.
Flew out of London, averaging 10mph+ for the first hour. Minor drama from a van having a tyre blowout - a sound like a gunshot, followed by scraping noises - and a ludicrously close pass from a taxi.
Had to give up on trying not to put a foot down when my rear light shouted at me that it was tired and switched itself off. Had to spend five minutes gently stroking and encouraging it, but coaxed it back to life on a different setting. Note to self: if carrying a backup rear light, make sure it's charged....
The main front light was predictably  problematic on the bumpy roads. Switched itself off on a dark descent, but the secondary was fine. I knew it was gravelly. so I slowed down to take it easy. Unfortunately, with all the recent rain there was more gravel than usual, and not where I expected it, so I lost the front wheel, tried to save it, hit the bank, and lost a fight with the hedge. I went over the handlebars and took some branches to the face, the pannier got launched off the rack, my spare (third) front light disappeared somewhere too. All very dramatic. Seemed to be quite a bit of blood, but not massively serious. a cut to the right eyebrow was the most dramatic and was actually dripping, plus a scarpe the shin and a couple more face scratches. I'll have a nice black eye pretty soon. Picked myself up, sorted myself out and got back going again. Front wheel needs looking at. I dont' think it's entirely round anymore. it feels odd when turning, and when I brake it seems to pull alternately left and right. Took it very easy on the way home, and got a good dose of sympathy.
Off to the LBS today, as the bike needs to be fit for the Upper Thames next weekend.

Blimey. That all sounds rather too exciting to be good.  Hope you're not seriously damaged.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 27 October, 2023, 10:52:00 pm
jeezo !
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 27 October, 2023, 10:58:11 pm
And jings!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 29 October, 2023, 06:59:01 pm
Quote from: SteveC on 24 October, 2023, 07:39:17 pm
The ride home was interesting. A combination of mud from the fields, leaves and the heavy rain showers we've had, meant that there was water across the whole width of the road in a place I've never seen that happen before. Even the cars were having to slow down and take things carefully. No idea what tomorrow morning will be like!
Having driven that road a couple of times since I typed that, I am definitely not riding this week. There isn't really a sensible alternative route in the dark and the idea of traversing 20m or more of water when I can't really see what's happening does not appeal.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 30 October, 2023, 09:37:54 am
Usually I ride home through this street:

https://www.itv.com/news/tyne-tees/2023-10-29/roads-closed-as-overnight-flooding-hits-county-durham-village

Not sure I'll go that way today- though it's all gone by now.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smileydave on 30 October, 2023, 10:28:33 am
Quote from: Tim Hall on 26 October, 2023, 12:36:53 pm
...  Hope you're not seriously damaged.
Although I've developed quite the shiner, and discovered some more bruises, the most damage was to my wallet, getting the wheel trued (but also a new headset wot 'as needed doin', while I was in there.)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: exilefromkent on 30 October, 2023, 11:23:06 am
Quote from: smileydave on 26 October, 2023, 09:06:01 am
Eventful. A shame, because I was on excellent form.
Flew out of London, averaging 10mph+ for the first hour. Minor drama from a van having a tyre blowout - a sound like a gunshot, followed by scraping noises - and a ludicrously close pass from a taxi.
Had to give up on trying not to put a foot down when my rear light shouted at me that it was tired and switched itself off. Had to spend five minutes gently stroking and encouraging it, but coaxed it back to life on a different setting. Note to self: if carrying a backup rear light, make sure it's charged....
The main front light was predictably  problematic on the bumpy roads. Switched itself off on a dark descent, but the secondary was fine. I knew it was gravelly. so I slowed down to take it easy. Unfortunately, with all the recent rain there was more gravel than usual, and not where I expected it, so I lost the front wheel, tried to save it, hit the bank, and lost a fight with the hedge. I went over the handlebars and took some branches to the face, the pannier got launched off the rack, my spare (third) front light disappeared somewhere too. All very dramatic. Seemed to be quite a bit of blood, but not massively serious. a cut to the right eyebrow was the most dramatic and was actually dripping, plus a scarpe the shin and a couple more face scratches. I'll have a nice black eye pretty soon. Picked myself up, sorted myself out and got back going again. Front wheel needs looking at. I dont' think it's entirely round anymore. it feels odd when turning, and when I brake it seems to pull alternately left and right. Took it very easy on the way home, and got a good dose of sympathy.
Off to the LBS today, as the bike needs to be fit for the Upper Thames next weekend.


I cycle on an old railway line, it's pitch black for my commute all winter long, a dynamo light is the best investment I made. I can't recommend it eenough, brighter than a lot of lights and never need to remember to charge them too. I hope you aren't too badly hurt, get well soon.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 30 October, 2023, 08:45:15 pm
I went to see my mum in the hospital after work and, not fancying psyclepaths through stabby estates in the dark, took the long way home on deserted lanes with a big moon up ahead.  It was pretty good.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smileydave on 01 November, 2023, 08:17:05 am
Well, I jumped back on the horse that threw me, made it home safe and sound, slightly slower, but a) I was taking it easy on the downhills, b) it's really quite dark now, and c) road closures Apart from a close pass on a zebra crossing, it was largely uneventful from my point of view. a big accident on the barnet bypass meant the lanes were full of traffic trying to bypass the bypass, and fire engines trying to get on  One of the roads was unexpectedly gravelly, but it was uphill, so not a massive problem. I was delighted that my route across the chilterns was so quiet, only to come across the reason - a road closure. waterworks, for 8 weeks. Got past on the pavement. and I'm pleased to report that the gravel at the scene of my off seems to have been cleared after a cross report to fixmystreet. One further road closure now open again, so knocks a km or so off the route again. Lights largely held up, but still problematic. Notwithstanding my intent to get a dynamo wheel, I'll need to get better lights for the smiley sons anyway, so happy to spend the cash.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 04 November, 2023, 09:28:32 am
Took the car Thursday due to weather forecast and wasn't anywhere near as bad as predicted locally

Friday cycled and was a killer into wind on way in. Did manage to chase someone down and shelter behind them for last couple of km, they didn't even realise I was there as had headphones in

The way home was probably the wettest I'd ever cycled in. Delayed leaving work due to a cloud burst and when left was just moderate rain but slowly got worse and the last half of ride was torrential and I was utterly drenched when home.

Have managed to streamline changing at work as was having to go to locker twice to get stuff and put stuff back once I've got changed but got a better system going now
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 04 November, 2023, 10:20:17 am
Friday, got a slowish flat on the way in. Replaced the rear tube on my fixed sitting on a low wall across the road from Twickenham Stadium. Dug out the big chunk of glass from the tyre. Cold, grubby hands and a late arrival.

Get the bike out for the ride home and the front tyre is dead flat. No spare tube left, no patches in the tool bottle and no desire to take a bike home on train and Tube on a Friday night. I leave the thorn or whatever in the tyre and do the ‘pump and ride thing’ at 10 minute intervals. Several hundred pump strokes and nearly 90 minutes later, the bike is thankfully dumped in the garage. A glass to celebrate the end of the week.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teamerchant on 06 November, 2023, 01:10:34 pm
Perfect temperature for cycle commuting- dry as well. What's not to like?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 06 November, 2023, 01:18:10 pm
The mighty rushing headwind on the way home?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 06 November, 2023, 06:39:40 pm
Quote from: Mr Larrington on 06 November, 2023, 01:18:10 pm
The mighty rushing headwind on the way home?

We must head opposite ways, flew home this evening even after editing strava which had my top speed of around 135kmh
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smileydave on 09 November, 2023, 08:45:56 am
Left the house in (almost) full winter audax kit yesterday. only change was a short sleeve baselayer which I can wear under my work shirt, and only one pair of socks.
Then came home in most of it too, having ditched the waterproof and hat.
Wednesday night is weed night by the smell of many of the cars
It was dark and cold, I was full of cold and slow, the roads were wet. I'd tweaked my handlebar angle, as it's been slipping down, but failed to countertweak the front light, so I couldn't see as much of the road ahead as I'd have liked to and I may have inadvertently dazzled a few drivers. That might have explained the flashing from some of them. Naturally I responded with a hearty V sign. Oncoming drivers who didn't dip also got the Vs, if they failed to notice me flapping my hands at them.
Apologies to the driver who shouted through his window for me to put some lights on. I was fed up with being bossed around, so he got told where to go in short jerky movements, but then I checked and the rear light had inexplicably switched itself off. I'd definitely turned it on as a) I'd seen it flashing, and b) I'd heard it beeping... I think my apology was possibly a bit late.
It's not much consolation that I wasn't the only unlit cyclist. There were more out without lights than with.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 10 November, 2023, 06:03:27 pm
Today I basically was too warm, weather forecast was around 5 degrees so had a light fleece under waterproof and reflective gillet and was too warm.

Other then a strava PB which was entirely down to hitting lights at right times nothing of note but done 4 out of 5 days this week so around 115km of cycling
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 13 November, 2023, 08:06:36 pm
This morning nearly took car as rain was bouncing but waterproofed up and then sweated to work. Noticed mid morning it was starting to get pretty windy which worked in my favour as absolutely smashed the journey home. Despite getting stuck behind a bus a couple of times of the 23 strava segments on my commute achievement in 21 and 17 PBs.

Unfortunately still a stiff breeze tomorrow so ride in won't be as fun
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 21 November, 2023, 10:23:02 pm
Managed to get home quicker than I got in.  I suspect a mild cross-tail wind had something to do with that, as well as a return to normal traffic rather than the psycho conditions last Tuesday.  Seemed to have reduce the nagging cold symptoms that had been hanging around for weeks as a result, although I said that last week, so we will see what happens.  79th time I've done a 100-mile round trip work commute into London.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smileydave on 22 November, 2023, 07:58:33 am
cold and slow. I think I'm getting slower, but maybe I'm just pacing myself better - 1kph slower getting out of London, but didn't need the feel to hammer it on the chance of being lucky with the lights. Warmer riding across town in the morning, but into a cold headwind on the way home. North London traffic was mental, but now it's drier, and most of the leaves are off the trees the cyclepaths are getting less like rural bridleways. The Redbourn road was as unpleasant as always, but after that it was so quiet that I fancifully decided that the Russians had started launching missiles and everyone was hiding at home. Then normal service resumed and I was brought out of my reverie...
23rd commute of the year, I think.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 24 November, 2023, 08:28:59 am
Commuted in yesterday.  I don't often do two commutes in the week and this was certainly the first time in winter hours (as the 3+ hour ride home is entirely in the dark), but I got fed up with the Machiavellian timetable back to Basingstoke.  After 7pm there are 3 fast trains an hour.  They leave at 5 minutes, 9 minutes, and 20 minutes past the hour, so if you rock up at 7:25 you have a 40 minute wait.  So it took me 2hr 45min to get home by train on Wednesday night.  Fuelled by a pint of Adnams Old in the Hole in the Wall I resolved to ride in yesterday and was rewarded by a blissful tailwind on the way in, and plenty of Rule #5 nagging headwind on the way back.  Only the 12th London commute this year, but I've had a lot more Basingstoke - Oxford - Basingstoke commutes to make up for it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 24 November, 2023, 09:27:03 pm
See, it's those sort of posts that take commuting to a whole new level.  Here I am worrying about jobs being a further 10 or 20 mons ride away.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 27 November, 2023, 12:16:02 pm
Dentist appt in town at 8am before work (in opposite direction).  As I was struggling with the cold on Friday I layered for warmth, too much it turns out as I was sweating like a pig.
Didn't help that I had a 5 min detour due to road works on the Rea Valley route.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 29 November, 2023, 09:39:33 am
Canal now iced up all the way into Glasgow.  The cold makes the pigeons sluggish to take off and get out my way !   One hit my arm lightly trying to get airborne. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fimm on 29 November, 2023, 12:36:43 pm
COLD!

There's a problem with the heating in our office which means that it is often a bit too hot when I arrive, before setting to a more acceptable level. I was very glad it was warm when I got there this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 29 November, 2023, 06:39:54 pm
Yes it was fairly cold and glad nearly all my cycle is on bus routes or on decent cycle paths next to gritted roads so hope a bit of spread

The sunrise made up for it. Was absolutely beautiful, think ill keep the phone closer to hand for pictures incase same tomorrow. As did avoiding the usual carnage in the carpark which just isn't big enough for the usage
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 30 November, 2023, 08:27:04 pm
No where near as picturesque this morning. That kinda grey cold semi fog. Some ice and frost about. Managed to catch (slowly) a guy on a Brompton and exchanged a few words about it being rather nippy

Was convinced I had a rubbing brake or similar on way home as struggled but spun wheels when got home and run fine. I think it's partially a North wind so harder on way home, partially the heavy marathon tyres, partially having all the layers on and a fair bit I'm rather tired. Roll on having the week off between Christmas and NY
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 04 December, 2023, 08:55:00 pm
Weather was meant to be very wet so donned leg condoms or waterproof trousers as some call them and my very old but still pretty waterproof walking jacket as my cycling specific ones no longer even water resistant

There was precisely no rain so I gently broiled on way to work

Forgo leg coverage on way home which was drizzly and hard work but just slowed it down and enjoyed rolling at a slower speed

Once home was dark and whilst sorting chickens and putting bikes away head torch picked up the reflective bands of tyres and I was surprised how much visibility they add

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 04 December, 2023, 10:06:54 pm
Lovely ride in.

(https://dgtzuqphqg23d.cloudfront.net/N-PFZFjMTWX9VTz2h8ghu7_3diD4l2FX1zO_GLkDZ9w-1536x2048.jpg)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 05 December, 2023, 09:31:18 pm
Quote from: sg37409 on 04 December, 2023, 10:06:54 pm
Lovely ride in.

(https://dgtzuqphqg23d.cloudfront.net/N-PFZFjMTWX9VTz2h8ghu7_3diD4l2FX1zO_GLkDZ9w-1536x2048.jpg)

I assume you have spikes?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 06 December, 2023, 11:17:23 pm
Same BMW driver doing close pass a short stroll from their house.  So, how do I breach the subject with them without going nuclear.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 06 December, 2023, 11:50:21 pm
Use his car to cook an Edmonton Casserole.

Place your meat1 into the car, douse the car with a good quality petrol2, add a watermelon, throw a Zippo into the window, stand well back. Ready in a couple of hours, or sooner if it rains.

Serving suggestion:

(http://www.indybay.org/olduploads/fire.jpgk3axua.jpg)

1 - anything that you can catch with a tin of Pedigree Chum and a shovel
2 - Agip, Elf or Total for that authentique Continental tang
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 07 December, 2023, 10:10:14 am
Quote from: The Family Cyclist on 05 December, 2023, 09:31:18 pm
Quote from: sg37409 on 04 December, 2023, 10:06:54 pm
Lovely ride in.


I assume you have spikes?

Actually, no.  The roads were clear enough, that’s on the canal path
The path is slippier now with a few non flat icy bits but there’s clear bits at the edges
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 07 December, 2023, 07:32:00 pm
Well that was grim, first commute where really didnt fancy it. About 500 metres into my commute there's a t junction in turn right at, very nearly turned left and headed to Station. Managed to persuade myself to just get on with it and once I'd got to saturation point it wasn't THAT bad. Forsaked my usual cut through as that's basically a swamp now and got home and covered several radiators in stuff to dry

The wife very kindly said I could take the car tomorrow, till I pointed out no i couldn't as she needs it
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 08 December, 2023, 09:14:07 pm
Well today was a massive improvement. Milder despite being clear enough for a beautiful crescent of moon and I think venus to be clear in the sky, the light was just starting to show in the sky and a little mist made it rather ethereal. Wasn't quick but didn't really care as was tired so just wound it down and enjoyed the ride. Did go and check my bike at lunch as a bit paranoid about getting to end of day a d finding I've had a visitation. Only thing I found was my chain despite spraying with chain lube most evenings was a nice rusty colour. Need to apply something heavier

Homewards I must have had a tail wind to go with Friday feeling as sped along (at the speeds a not very quick cyclist on a tourer set up in full commuting and weatherproofing with heavy panniers goes). Was passed by another cyclist which is rare as hardly see any and most are similar speeds. He kindly gave a little ring on the bell and a hello before passing me

Did have to swing by and pick youngest up from school disco which had planned for in as much as got the wife to ride to school with her this morning. Problem was I'd pushed quite hard on way home and built up a bit of a sweat which had rather chilled me by the time I'd waited 15 minutes to collect and then a slow cycle home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: arabella on 12 December, 2023, 01:03:34 pm
It was raining in sunny Suffolk, quite hard. 
I made the mistake of using the psyclpath in order to avoid being splashed by vehicles charging through the extra large puddles.  This was a mistake as there is an undrained underpass.  Which was about 8" deep in (warmish, muddy) rainwater. 

Said underpass has the endearing feature of a kerbstone on the middle to, y'know, separate cyclists and pedestrians.  It wasn't exactly visible in the murky puddle so guess who had an unplanned descent and paddle (and had to rinse out their lunch).  The work laptop still works though. 
I've been sitting in a damp lower half (jeans etc, barefoot though) since 8:00am approx.; I've managed not to get too chilly.  Some of me has even dried out.  But I will certainly be wearing different shoes for the next few days.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: alfapete on 12 December, 2023, 01:28:09 pm
Quote from: arabella on 12 December, 2023, 01:03:34 pm

Said underpass has the endearing feature of a kerbstone on the middle to, y'know, separate cyclists and pedestrians.  It wasn't exactly visible in the murky puddle so guess who had an unplanned descent and paddle (and had to rinse out their lunch). 

At least you'll know on the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fimm on 12 December, 2023, 01:53:18 pm
Oh, it is nice when it is not so cold.
Got out of the station and expected to be very wet when I got to the office. Was a bit damp, but not as bad as Id feared.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 18 December, 2023, 05:04:09 pm
A tale of two halfs. Really didn't fancy the ride but was an event at work so parking would be even more restricted then usual so cycled. Dark, head wind and a barely 20kmh average

Had a big panic as an overtaking truck must have run something over but feared I'd jettisoned a pannier and had my work laptop in one of the panniers. Thankfully both still attached but may try and cable tie on for piece of mind

Way home had a lovely tailwind, ridiculously mild for last week before Christmas and a bit of pep in the pedal so ended up around 5kmh faster in way home

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 20 December, 2023, 08:10:54 pm
Again heavily wind affected, dragged myself to work this morning and was looking forward to a sail home but didn't appear quite as directly behind as hoped, then hit traffic up the hill I need to climb so was slow but did manage a few uphill sprints past cars

Then had an utter nob abort an pass as I was cycling past a traffic island and they realised at last minute they weren't going to make it. Made me swear rather loudly in surprise but the driver didn't even look at me when they shot past shortly afterwards.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 22 December, 2023, 04:10:42 pm
Looking out the window, there’s little tree movement or other signs of windiness, yet that ride home was a right chore, and my knees complained near the end.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 02 January, 2024, 05:23:02 pm
Modest headwind in, Henk up.my arse on the way home.  Win.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 03 January, 2024, 07:40:11 pm
Back to the grind, took car yesterday due to yellow which became Amber weather warning for wind and predicted heavy rain. Neither had appeared by time got to work and would have had a 45mph tail wind on way home so bit gutted didn't ride

Today still pretty stiff wind so 19kph on way in and over 24kph average on way home. Highlight was it appeared the local council had been along the cycle path with a mini street sweeper as was broken car window glass on way in and cleared by time got home and was also a clear cleaned path
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teamerchant on 08 January, 2024, 05:49:37 pm
Apple Weather let me down - this morning it said no precipitation, and yet it was distinctly snowy on the way home. Might be a car job tomorrow...
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 08 January, 2024, 07:43:48 pm
Today wasn't fun. About 4km looked at dynamo light and wasn't working. Checked rear and nothing there either. Strangely the front would come back on dull but nothing in rear so clipped on emergency rear and on a few more occasions had to turn dull front light back on. Had a wiggle of some wires and took connector off wheel and refitted at work and worked fine all the way home. I suspect was getting just enough charge to recharge the capacitors for the standlight on way in.

Way in was also notable for speed which allowed me to correctly deduce the way home wouldn't be as fast so rode home into a brisk cold headwind with added sleet. It wasn't fun and was a struggle. Also moved a bit of fence out of a cut through I use which meant when wiped nose in glove shortly after had a face full of mud.

Hopefully won't be as windy tomorrow.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 09 January, 2024, 06:56:51 pm
And another windy journey home. Honestly the headwind on home can do one now, even used more cycle path then usual as didnt have it in legs for mixing it up on some of the roads. Did have the novelty of passing around 30 cars, maybe more in a big traffic jam up the hill into Hatfield Peverel for those who are local. A bus had broken down and was causing havoc.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 15 January, 2024, 04:58:08 pm
Well this mornings ride probably has two DOTD nominations for myself, well one really the others due to crap pavement. A beautiful clear morning with the sun far from risen but starting to illuminate the sky to the east, Venus shining brightly.......and it was chuffing cold

Then decided I'd scare myself.....twice

First time not really my fault come off a cycle path and due to traffic on a slip road carried on on the path for a bit longer. There's an access cover which has nearly caught me before but caught front wheel it in causing the bike to veer and lean left sharply but thankfully held upright

Then near work there's a cut through I use which the entrance to is hard to spot in the dark. About to swing up thr dropped kerb to access it when realise I'm about 15 metres too early and there's no dropped kerb. Managed to not crash into the kerb thankfully

Still glad I did cycle, a couple of people were late as defrosting cars and although definitely takes longer especially as need a full change of clothes at work it's not a huge amount when allowing time to defrost car and getting to work early enough for a space
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teamerchant on 16 January, 2024, 09:58:05 am
Blimey, that was cold! Back wheel slipped once or twice. Also need to invest in better thermal padded trousers! My sheepskin lined DM boots are the perfect winter cycling shoes, it seems - cosy toes all round.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 16 January, 2024, 12:23:43 pm
Got taken down at a T-junction when school run mum decided to abort as she was halfway through her turn and continued straight on. Dead front rim but most other stuff is ok. I love the school run.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 16 January, 2024, 12:30:39 pm
Bugger. Hope you're ok.

I'm on the P2W at the moment as my car is having some work done on it and I'm doing long days starting quite early so don't want to be out even earlier on the bicycle. This morning was sub-zero on the way in, but reasonably OK even on the dangerously dodgy twisty road I avoid during more sociable hours (there's a back gate down a safer road that's available during working hours +/- a bit).

Almost everyone else was late in due to traffic chaos, lots of cars in ditches including down the twisty road I'd navigated safely on two wheels about an hour earlier. People really are poor drivers down here.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 16 January, 2024, 02:15:57 pm
Just some bruises to grumble about.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 18 January, 2024, 08:01:35 am
Parky in that London today - huge numbers of cyclists though.

A glove recommendation:

https://www.galibier.cc/product/ardennes-light-winter-cycling-gloves/

These are remarkably good, at any price. Those plus a thin pair of merino liners are better than my Assos Ultras which cost nearly 4 times more. Having said that, I might have a dud pair of those Assos, as there are two finger ends that do not seem to be insulated.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 18 January, 2024, 08:51:24 am
By eck that was chilly, listed as feeling like - 9 and would have been lower with cycle related wind chill

Glad to be on gritted roads or alongside gritted roads, water bottle top had frozen by time got to work

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 18 January, 2024, 09:15:14 am
Luckily I didn't cycle in today - heard from reception that there'd been an failure on the cycle gate onto the business park (you can use your access card to swipe through a gate at the back, which puts you into a small compound from where you have to use your card again to get into the main open business park or back outside). I've had it before where the outer gate wouldn't acceptmy card and I had to cycle around to the main entrance - adds about another 1.5 miles to the journey due to road layouts and having to backtrack, whereas there's only about 0.5 mile difference if you head to the main entrance directly. Anyway, some poor sod got through the outer gate, then the system failed and he got stuck in that compound until site services could send someone to break him free. Wouldn't be fun standing around in cycling kit in the freezing weather we had this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Diver300 on 19 January, 2024, 01:58:36 pm
My hands got very, very cold in the morning when it was -6°C. By the afternoon it was +2°C and I was fine with the same gloves.

In the evening this happened:- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sI63qR4j6IU (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sI63qR4j6IU)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 19 January, 2024, 04:54:43 pm
Seemed marginally less cold this morning but a thick frost on all non gritted roads so rode rather gingerly

Home was milder but had a few close passes including a twat I think close passed me as I didn't let him out of a junction yesterday. Now it's light on way home will be running the helmet camera again

Probably gonna skive off and get a lift Monday with the forecast wind
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 22 January, 2024, 10:05:01 am
Warm but windy today.

How much wind is too much wind.  Does the BBC weather's black circle with 40 in it really mean 40mph winds?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 22 January, 2024, 12:13:56 pm
Yes, it does mean speed in mph. The met office also show speed and gust speed separately (gust is higher).

As to how much is too much - if it is felling trees or lifting roofs, then probably set a little high. If it is againsterly (when you are cycling) then too much is probably well below the falling trees/destroying buildings level.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 22 January, 2024, 05:11:00 pm
Got too warm into that headwind on the way back. It’s a gusty little number that requires care. Something more breathable on top tomorrow I think.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 23 January, 2024, 05:26:08 pm
Back on it today, fairly mundane on way in although glad to be back on bike. However the wind certainly picked up on way home so after nearly getting taken out by a numpty turning into costa/KFC without indicating and stopping to help an little old lady who was having car issues absolutely smashed most my PBs on way home as felt good and had the tail wind.....the ride in tomorrow could be less fun but will try
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 23 January, 2024, 06:57:15 pm
Yesterday was my first commute since 28th November. Weather and medical issues wrote the rest of last year off and it's not exactly been cycling weather this year much either.
Today was my second commute of the year!  :thumbsup:

I'm not sure whether it's the lack of fitness or the headwind, but I could only register 17mph on the 'slow down you idiot' machine on the way into the village whereas I usually manage 20 (or even 21)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 23 January, 2024, 07:04:37 pm
Quote from: fd3 on 22 January, 2024, 10:05:01 am
Warm but windy today.

How much wind is too much wind.  Does the BBC weather's black circle with 40 in it really mean 40mph winds?

If you've got the wind speed set to mph, yes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 24 January, 2024, 09:45:29 am
On Friday it was -6C and my water bottle froze - not quite solid but thick enough slush that nothing would flow.
Today it was +10C and there was a bonkers tailwind.  All the traffic lights from Putney to Parliament Square turned green like God parting the Red Sea for Moses.  The 50 miles passed 40 minutes quicker.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Rod Marton on 24 January, 2024, 11:41:05 am
Back on the lanes route this morning as the temperature was well above zero, only to find another obstacle. The whole road was blocked by a fallen tree. It was a big tree and there was no practicable round or over, so had to turn round and take an alternative route. Jocelyn was fierce last night: I hadn't realised how fierce.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 25 January, 2024, 08:19:02 pm
Skived off the ride again tomorrow as got the ends/sides of another named storm and didn't fancy a ride in 40 ish mph gusts

Back on it today. Got a little damp on way in but the mizzle and drizzle seemed to be making the big overhead power cables buzz



Didn't think was much wind on way home but ended up not that much slower then Tuesdays sail home. Annoyingly the wet has made the new cut through start to turn to mud. They really need to just sort a proper one and use bollards appropriately to stop cars being driven through

Was silly mild on way home so was actually sweating
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 25 January, 2024, 09:03:15 pm
Quote from: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 24 January, 2024, 09:45:29 am
On Friday it was -6C and my water bottle froze - not quite solid but thick enough slush that nothing would flow.
Today it was +10C and there was a bonkers tailwind.  All the traffic lights from Putney to Parliament Square turned green like God parting the Red Sea for Moses.  The 50 miles passed 40 minutes quicker.
That's quite a commute. Certainly earns the "Crazy" in "Crazy English Triathlete"!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 26 January, 2024, 02:01:05 pm
Quote from: Cudzoziemiec on 25 January, 2024, 09:03:15 pm
Quote from: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 24 January, 2024, 09:45:29 am
On Friday it was -6C and my water bottle froze - not quite solid but thick enough slush that nothing would flow.
Today it was +10C and there was a bonkers tailwind.  All the traffic lights from Putney to Parliament Square turned green like God parting the Red Sea for Moses.  The 50 miles passed 40 minutes quicker.
That's quite a commute. Certainly earns the "Crazy" in "Crazy English Triathlete"!

It's not done every day or even every week, although that was the third this year.  Saves £49.80 in train fares which is enough to keep Mr Shimano in business for the wear and tear on the machine.  I also found (in retrospect) that it was good training for PBP.  The last 20 miles on the way back are into the prevailing wind and can often test the ETA sent to Mrs CET - so management of physical and mental resources is essential - and meant that I spent pretty much all of PBP in a comfort zone.

In summer I take a route south of Woking which is 56 miles in and go back via Ascot which is 53.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 26 January, 2024, 04:35:15 pm
By and indeed eck, should have checked the weather or at least paid attention to the wind in the chimney. To work was a battle. 40+mph gusts and with loaded panniers was all over the place. Couldn't even drink on the go as needed both hands in bars

Ride home was better, loads of traffic passing through one of the villages which was cutting through. Stopped as didn't fancy passing a lorry as no room either side and hear a metallic ting

Start riding and yup there's an odd noise so pull over. Looks like the daily hammering on way to work often with loaded panniers and down some fairly crap cycle paths and cut through has taken its toil and one of my spokes had snapped. Odd it was when not moving

Taped the remains to another spoke as always carry electrical tape and made it the last few km home. Do have a spare wheel in shed  which needs bearings adjusting so a job for tomorrow
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 30 January, 2024, 05:31:01 pm
Nothing very exciting about the last few commutes other then my bike felt so nice after giving it a service on weekend when replacing the rear wheel.

However noticed I'm close to 500km for the month which has been entirely commuting or utilitarian, havent been for a social ride yetthis year. Infact if id not learnt of cut through which misses lights and takes about a km off ride I'll already be at 500.

So tonight took a little detour in way home and if I don't use the cut through on way in and take same detour on way home I'll just creep over 500km for the month, think I managed about 1200km last year so this is a big jump although won't be able to keep up as change work location in April

I did get unduly annoyed after being over taken by a young lad on an ebike on way home. He went past me up an incline with no effort so chased him down. Was planning an overtake once leveled out but we went separate ways
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 05 February, 2024, 09:48:43 am
It was windier here than the Norwegians predicted. It's a while since I've played 'plucky cyclist' battling gusts. Thankfully the drivers got the memo so no stupidity this morning.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 05 February, 2024, 12:23:34 pm
First (bike) commute of the year. Hurrah. I am a riding god not looking forward to the againsterly on the way home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 05 February, 2024, 01:45:54 pm
Meeting in Reading today.  Cycled in courtesy of Aslef who decided not to run either Cross Country or Great Western trains today.  It's 10 years since I last cycled into Reading and it's noticeable how much bigger cars are as in North Hampshire about 75% of the vehicles that passed on the once-upon-a-time easy to pass lanes were SUVs.  I need a cycling top that says: "If you want to pass get a smaller car!!!"

On the positive side - there is secure cycling parking in our Reading office, so might work from here a bit more often.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 07 February, 2024, 04:42:09 pm
A few days to catch up on. Monday windy on way in but glad did, a because always feel better after a ride and b the wind picked up and flew home setting several strava PBs, oh and c a lorry had overturned on A12 so by cycling avoided all that.

Skived Tuesday due to wind, today didn't fancy it but did as weather's crap tomorrow and need to drive Friday. Was much colder then last week or so but no wind so fairly even times each way rather then a slog then a race.

Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 13 February, 2024, 03:20:51 pm
l/h pedal failed to release on the way home. one of those moments where you focus just on that. realized to unclip on the r/h side but I was going...going...gone and am laid there under the bike and the pedal wont release. had to take the shoe off. insult to injury I had a visit from the fairy on the ride home
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 14 February, 2024, 07:53:05 am
Went the summer route back via Ascot last night.  54 miles of headwind, dark, and wet roads.  And, unlike Steve Abraham, the headwind didn't get tired and give up.  On the plus side, neither did i, although I did delve into the saddle back for an emergency flapjack at Bramshill.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 14 February, 2024, 09:41:52 am
Thick fog up the hill on the way in - cloud base is about 100m ASL which is where I start.
Drivers had not got the memo and 2 close passes had me swearing.
On Sunday riding to swimming the boab-word was yelled at a submerged pothole and I had to apologise to the gent waiting at the bus stop for my unladylike verbal ejaculation. Today there was no one listening so I gave it large.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 14 February, 2024, 07:42:51 pm
Due to reasons haven't cycles since Thursday, possibly even Wednesday, trying to remember who I've got a lift with into work
Checked strava was definitely Wednesday so a week between rides. Back on it today and was far too warm in lings, reflective jacket and waterproof. I'm digging out the shorts for tomorrow
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 15 February, 2024, 09:25:59 am
2nd quickest commute ever into Oxford today.  Just like the quickest, it was nothing to do with legs, but a steady tailwind and half-term.  Minimal traffic saves me about 8 minutes along the Cowley Road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 15 February, 2024, 12:36:31 pm
no windshell, no l/s base layer. Instead  l/s jersey, gilet and knee warmers. Also sans gloves. fantastic!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 15 February, 2024, 05:01:45 pm
Seemed to have a headwind both ways, pushed hard on way in....maybe too hard as legs just didn't want it on way home. Definitely shorts weather, was over heating with ling sleeve t shirt and reflective gilllet as not bright enough in way in yet to lose that
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 19 February, 2024, 05:39:34 pm
Stiff headwind in, with drizzle. Not a breath of wind on the way home.  Flag outside work as limp as the audience for Anne Widdecombe's first porno.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 19 February, 2024, 09:35:17 pm
At the lights idiot ped.om phone tried to walk through my bike as my light turned green.  I was no on the crossing,.they were taking a diagonal.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fimm on 20 February, 2024, 09:59:47 am
I need to find a less wooly hat.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 20 February, 2024, 10:13:13 am
Massive standstill traffic-jam on the way in.
Which I breezed past.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 20 February, 2024, 10:23:40 am
First shorts day. Could easily have switched to mitts as well.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Pingu on 20 February, 2024, 07:47:10 pm
Last ever cycle commute today.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: hbunnet on 20 February, 2024, 09:12:29 pm
Quote from: Pingu on 20 February, 2024, 07:47:10 pm
Last ever cycle commute today.

That's a big deal.  Congratulations. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 22 February, 2024, 05:04:40 pm
Quote from: Pingu on 20 February, 2024, 07:47:10 pm
Last ever cycle commute today.

And hopefully the start of more time for leisure rides 

I'm counting down as at most have 12 left before I change work locations to one that's too far to realistically cycle

Todays was wet on way home, have been doing it since October and probably only maybe 4th time I've got really wet and wouldn't have been too bad if my jacket was still waterproof. The shorts are soaked but turning cooler so longs can come back out for a few days

A few colleagues while leaving and the wife when gotnhome commented they couldn't believe I was cycling, yeah I could have blagged a lift but the wet just doesn't bother me, nor the cold. Infact I think the only times I've skived off due to weather have been due to named storms bringing wind
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 23 February, 2024, 08:21:08 am
Quote from: Pingu on 20 February, 2024, 07:47:10 pm
Last ever cycle commute today.

Jeezo.    I hope you enjoyed it.   What was your first ?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 23 February, 2024, 08:24:09 am
Pretty grim today.  Pissing rain and on a Friday with lighter traffic they really don’t like slowing down for a bike.  Took the more direct route  to be quicker but means staying on main road.  Many close passes.   
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 26 February, 2024, 09:28:44 am
Last week's rain was pretty rough, but okay.  Made my 8yo cycle to school in it so it couldn't have been that bad.

My grumble for today is the fecking motorists who think you should signal that you are pulling out when you drop someone off, then just pull straight out without further worning.

Point three, I will be joining FC at having a longer cycle ride after Easter, but mine will be going from ~3-4 miles to double that, so a bit better really.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 26 February, 2024, 09:42:53 am
Cold but nice.   Canal iced over on many parts. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 27 February, 2024, 07:33:23 am
Almost felt like today's ride was a reward for all the cold, dark and often windy commutes. Admitidly got a lift yesterday as didn't fancy 40+mph gust headwind on way home but this morning was whilst cool enough to need to be back in longs had no wind and was really rather light. Happily rolled along and then had the treat of a red kite sailing over head.

Kinda a shame I've got a handful of commutes left although looking forward to having time for leisure rides and running again
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 27 February, 2024, 07:58:13 am
I saw a bin lorry called Melinda Messcollector xxx
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 27 February, 2024, 02:48:27 pm
chain got unshipped this am on the fixie so poss the wheel has pulled fwd and last night the pannier wasnt on right and fell in the road smashing a jar of honey that was inside the pannier. luckily the honey was set so things werent too bad
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 28 February, 2024, 05:30:51 pm
Yesterday was 7th century commute of the year, well up on previous year, but represents a change in training philosophy brought about by busier weekends.  Seems to be working well, except for the muppet who was so desperate to overtake that he ploughed through a flood to do so.  I think it was a burst pipe rather than rainfall, so spent the rest of the day worrying if I would pick up some bug.  Fortunately not.  Did feel a bit lightheaded towards the end on the way back, but that was because someone poked the bear by sitting on my wheel in Richmond Park and then attacking up Broomfield Lane.  So I lit the afterburners (as I needed to get a bit of momentum going after the traffic through Putney) in an unsubtle demonstration of Power v Power/weight.  It was fun though, and so worth it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 28 February, 2024, 07:43:18 pm
Had to collect the youngest from football so she cycled in with t'wife this morning and then I cycled to get her. However as before when did this pushed too hard, got a bit sweaty (not helped by it having warmed up a lot since morning commute) and got to school about 10 minutes early so was fairly chilly by time she came out

Did then have a lovely ride with her home. Would be a lot easier if she'd cycle every day but she enjoys the walk with the wife so can't really complain
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 29 February, 2024, 07:57:25 pm
Sure I had a headwind both ways today. The temperature change backed this up. Comfortable in shorts on way in. Cold as well as soaked on way home. Had to put sunnies on as rain was stinging eyes.

I'm blagging a lift tomorrow
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 06 March, 2024, 01:26:25 pm
On a day when fuel duty was frozen yet again, I caught a train into London with this weeks 5% price rise taking my fare for a 97-mile round trip to London over £50 for the first time (53.7p/mile).  And people wonder I why I cycle commute instead.  I will be 5% less concerned about holding up traffic in the future.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 09 March, 2024, 08:34:51 am
Well my cycle commuting apart from a few days training at end of month is done. Change of work location makes it unfeasible unfortunately

Will work out distance when get a chance but think was late October I started and as managed just shy of 1000km riding this year so far with iirc one social ride suggests about 2000 km cycled

And yesterday was one of the hardest. Was tired and had a physical and mentally draining day Friday and coming to around 7 months with only Christmas offso when smashed lots of strava segments on way in with very little effort knew as blown along I'd suffer on way home especially as had loaded panniers. Wind seemed to have increased and was tempted to leave bike at work and try and blag a lift but reasoned that even if took an hour would get home. Did get hopes up when saw another rider in distance and thought might be able to team up into wind but caught very easily and turned out to be a teenager on way home from school who got off to walk up a hill. After this was just stubbornness and did take the path and granny ring up the hill into Hatfield Peverel for those who know. Finally made it home with very little left in tank. The trusty Thorn will definitely be getting some attention as now got two weeks off, new cables all round for a start and who knows maybe might get some leisure rides in
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 11 March, 2024, 05:52:38 pm
A suicidal squirrel dashed between my wheels.  I think only the mudflap clipped it.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 12 March, 2024, 09:39:14 pm
A bit of rain forecast today for the ride in. Like a numpty I didn't bother with overshoes, so had soggy shoes and socks, as it's a 20 mile trip.

My waterproof isn't.
I had no spare socks.
I spent some time padding round in office shoeless and damp-sock clad.
Cycling kit was almost dry by the time to go home.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teamerchant on 13 March, 2024, 11:41:08 am
I was on the e-bike and gave a good long tow to a lycra-clad racing snake who was struggling against a rather vicious headwind. We had a quick chat at the top of a hill before he disappeared off down on the descent and then I peeled off. Good deed done for the day!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 18 March, 2024, 02:22:20 pm
A pair of scratters on big twist-and-go e-bikes electric motorcycles, riding two abreast at car speeds on a 40mph road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: MattH on 19 March, 2024, 06:48:30 am
For the last few weeks, whenever I've been out it's been on the steel Audax bike, usually with a fairly heavy pannier. Then at weekend I was on my old hard tail MTB, with pannier and carrying dog (lovely ride over to Frome with MrsH, with caek at Pronto Cycles). Yesterday I was leaving one of our vehicles at work and cycling home - the MTB doesn't have lights, and the audax bike was waiting for a new tyre (which did come yesterday) so I took the soot bike.

Every time I jump on it I'm surprised by how lively it feels - especially after riding heavily laden bikes that are pretty heavy in their own right. Sadly it doesn't translate into actually going any faster, time within a minute of my pretty stable 36 minute commute time (though I did lose some time at temporary traffic lights).
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: L CC on 19 March, 2024, 08:27:33 am
(yesterday) I did my good deed for the week by flagging down a tractor driver to tell him there was a loose sheep on the road.

I had considered channelling my long-unused shepherding skills but the stupid thing was already covered in brambles and rugby tackling livestock isn't really in my current portfolio.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 19 March, 2024, 10:30:50 pm
Oxford today.  There was a very annoying 4-way set of temporary lights just to the east of the Mini factory, so I used that as an excuse to go through Abingdon on the way back and tick off a few previously untagged squares on Veloviewer.  Then rode up Streatley Hill because it was there and it would have reminded me about its presence if I had avoided it.  Sadly, that project will finish soon and I will be stuck with London commutes.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: teamerchant on 20 March, 2024, 10:12:54 am
Engaged brain before leaving house and put waterproofs on before it started to rain.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: pumpkin on 22 March, 2024, 08:40:06 pm
Taxi driver double parked in a prescribed cycle lane. I stopped behind him then he started to reverse towards me. I held my ground and he stopped. We had words. People were dropping off children blah blah. You are a professional driver. It's a cycle lane and now you want me to go into the road.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 24 March, 2024, 07:12:54 am
Looks like a dry day tomorrow for my last ever bike commute.  I was thinking about riding like a maniac and filming it, Lucas Brunelle-style, but I'm on cat feeding duties so it's not the normal route  >:(
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rogerzilla on 25 March, 2024, 06:39:17 pm
That's it.  Done.

18 years of commuting by bike, with a couple of years off for Covid and a far lower frequency since then due to limited office attendance.

I never wore a helmet.  I'm not sure where I'd have kept one while showering.

Two crashes, one on black ice (badly banged elbow) and a head-on smash with a dozy fellow cyclist on a psyclepath (just a bruised shin - she went flying but was also ok).  Not counting the time I got off the bike, fainted, and hit my head quite hard, but I was already off the bike at the time so that doesn't count.

One puncture on the actual road - a broken bottle took out the sidewall of a racing tyre.  Incredibly, that was it.  I had one found before riding home and a couple found before setting off for work.

The worst mechanical was a snapped seatbolt.  6 miles home standing up on a fixie.  With downhill bits.

I used to mix it a lot more with traffic on the busy roads but I don't have the nerve for it every day now. 
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Jurek on 25 March, 2024, 06:46:11 pm
Quote from: rogerzilla on 25 March, 2024, 06:39:17 pm
That's it.  Done.

18 years of commuting by bike, with a couple of years off for Covid and a far lower frequency since then due to limited office attendance.

I never wore a helmet.  I'm not sure where I'd have kept one while showering.

Two crashes, one on black ice (badly banged elbow) and a head-on smash with a dozy fellow cyclist on a psyclepath (just a bruised shin - she went flying but was also ok).  Not counting the time I got off the bike, fainted, and hit my head quite hard, but I was already off the bike at the time so that doesn't count.

One puncture on the actual road - a broken bottle took out the sidewall of a racing tyre.  Incredibly, that was it.  I had one found before riding home and a couple found before setting off for work.

The worst mechanical was a snapped seatbolt.  6 miles home standing up on a fixie.  With downhill bits.

I used to mix it a lot more with traffic on the busy roads but I don't have the nerve for it every day now.
Well done.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 26 March, 2024, 04:02:11 pm
Penultimate day of cycle commuting for foreseeable future today. Had less gear then usual to haul and honestly think a fortnight off has recharged my legs a bit despite running and cycling a fair bit while off.

Absolutely smashed ride in. Loads of Strava PBs. This is usually followed by a slow ride home into a headwind. Just as leaving work eldest who had been off school due to it being closed today rang and was worried something wrong with dog. Absolutely buried myself on way home. Only time I've been faster had a 40mph tail wind  and was riding into the wind on way home today. Did have a slight dillema when saw a csr on hard shoulder of A12 and was debating whether to stop if people in it but thankfully was empty. Then enjoyed chasing cars through town. Got home to find the dog absolutely fine and bouncing round like normal so sat down to recover with a cuppa.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: sg37409 on 26 March, 2024, 04:45:20 pm
Quote from: rogerzilla on 25 March, 2024, 06:39:17 pm
That's it.  Done.

18 years of commuting by bike, with a couple of years off for Covid and a far lower frequency since then due to limited office attendance.

I never wore a helmet.  I'm not sure where I'd have kept one while showering.

Two crashes, one on black ice (badly banged elbow) and a head-on smash with a dozy fellow cyclist on a psyclepath (just a bruised shin - she went flying but was also ok).  Not counting the time I got off the bike, fainted, and hit my head quite hard, but I was already off the bike at the time so that doesn't count.

One puncture on the actual road - a broken bottle took out the sidewall of a racing tyre.  Incredibly, that was it.  I had one found before riding home and a couple found before setting off for work.

The worst mechanical was a snapped seatbolt.  6 miles home standing up on a fixie.  With downhill bits.

I used to mix it a lot more with traffic on the busy roads but I don't have the nerve for it every day now.


Well done indeed. You might miss is on the lovely crisp mornings. I also have less appetite for the traffic but am still doing it.  36 years for me now but it’s not likely to be more than 40 (Barrow in Furness, Glasgow and Edinburgh.   With a few months in Seattle  :thumbsup:)
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: smileydave on 27 March, 2024, 11:07:19 am
First commute home across London last night since January. Everyone has gone nuts. Taxi waiting at red light only decided to put his indicator on to turn left after the lights had changed and I was already coming up the cycle lane on the inside. Deliveroo rider came off the pavement onto the road in front of me without looking, then came to a dead stop. New road layout at the Holborn one way system is an absolute death trap. I hope that the lights will get reprogrammed as two lanes into one on the westbound bit is baking in conflict. Van driver coming towards me pulled across the road directly at me to park on my side of the road. You would have thought at the station it'd be easier, but no, the number of people who change direction without looking and then stop in front of me was astonishing. And finally, wheeling my bike down the ramp, hard left so everyone coming up can easily avoid me, a batty old lady dived into the 6 inch gap between me and the rail forcing me out to mix among the inbound wheely suitcases.
I may have uttered one or two naughty words. I think I might be a bit tired and grumpy.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 27 March, 2024, 12:19:41 pm
Quote from: rogerzilla on 25 March, 2024, 06:39:17 pm
That's it.  Done.

18 years of commuting by bike, with a couple of years off for Covid and a far lower frequency since then due to limited office attendance.

I never wore a helmet.  I'm not sure where I'd have kept one while showering.

Two crashes, one on black ice (badly banged elbow) and a head-on smash with a dozy fellow cyclist on a psyclepath (just a bruised shin - she went flying but was also ok).  Not counting the time I got off the bike, fainted, and hit my head quite hard, but I was already off the bike at the time so that doesn't count.

One puncture on the actual road - a broken bottle took out the sidewall of a racing tyre.  Incredibly, that was it.  I had one found before riding home and a couple found before setting off for work.

The worst mechanical was a snapped seatbolt.  6 miles home standing up on a fixie.  With downhill bits.

I used to mix it a lot more with traffic on the busy roads but I don't have the nerve for it every day now.
And now you have copious leisure time, your mileage will shoot up. In theory!
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: The Family Cyclist on 27 March, 2024, 08:29:56 pm
And my last cycle commute for foreseeable. Was a lot colder then expected this morning so shorts was a brave if slightly ill advised choice. Again was fairly quick by mine and bikes standards this morning. The return leg again seemed to be into a headwind despite the fact seemed to be on back when leaving. Fairly uneventful till an idiot delivery driver in front of me decided to pull completely onto path next to road where I was about to cycle, this made me pay extra attention and good job I did as the driver then opened the door to jump out and do an delivery. A quick bellow from me stopped him.in the door till I'd gone past and I then carried on my way and all good apart from the fact I need to adjust the rear mech where changed cable last week as been loosing gears at back all week so suspect either coming loose or cable stretched
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: rr on 28 March, 2024, 08:43:43 am
First cycle commute for a while, in with 3 SurfacePros, back with one and a pannier of shopping.
The elephant bike 3 gears seem have got lower, may be something to do with the 12kg I've shed.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 02 April, 2024, 09:14:48 am
Switched back from my summer commute route to the winter one as the clock change makes the mornings darker for a week or two.  Still pleasantly surprised to encounter nautical twilight from Blackbushe onwards.  The roads were very wet and in very poor condition.  My rough guess is that extra caution due to road surfaces adds about 5 minutes to the three hours in.  Or maybe I was a bit slower on the Audax bike as the Enigma machine needs some TLC - new chain, rear cassette, disk brake service and probably a few others things after c20 winter commutes from Basingstoke to London.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 10 April, 2024, 06:37:32 pm
Passed a car on the way home, make/model "Trojan"
I'm sure that's a contraceptive?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Mr Larrington on 10 April, 2024, 07:18:14 pm
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trojan_(automobile) refers.  They made all sorts of odd machines from licence-built bubble cars to the production versions of Bruce McLaren's sports cars to single-seater racing cars.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Tim Hall on 10 April, 2024, 10:47:37 pm
Quote from: Mr Larrington on 10 April, 2024, 07:18:14 pm
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trojan_(automobile) refers.  They made all sorts of odd machines from licence-built bubble cars to the production versions of Bruce McLaren's sports cars to single-seater racing cars.

The YACF webby science broke your url

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trojan_(automobile) (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trojan_(automobile))
That should jbex. Read down the article to the bubble car but. Peter Agg made his stash importing Lambrettas and later bought Suzuki GB. I worked for his son for A Several of Years.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 10 April, 2024, 11:13:03 pm
Yeah, but is it also a prophylactic?
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 11 April, 2024, 10:44:58 am
My front brake pad disintegrated outside Parliament. I saw it dislodge and hoped it would be rescuable, Looking for a 2cm grey roundish pad on a road surfaced with 2cm roundish chippings is a particularly frustrating Where's Wally.

The braking material had come right off the metal backing plate. I am very glad this was by Parliament and not on, say, Parliament Hill.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: toontra on 11 April, 2024, 11:29:57 am
Quote from: HTFB on 11 April, 2024, 10:44:58 am
My front brake pad disintegrated outside Parliament. I saw it dislodge and hoped it would be rescuable, Looking for a 2cm grey roundish pad on a road surfaced with 2cm roundish chippings is a particularly frustrating Where's Wally.

Did you attract the attention of the security guards?  They're very hot on anything slightly peculiar.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: HTFB on 11 April, 2024, 01:34:35 pm
and my mindblowing speed into town before this incident wasn't at all due to the healthy tailwind. It was because I wasn't, it turns out, carrying my lunch. Bah.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: Diver300 on 11 April, 2024, 02:02:05 pm
Quote from: HTFB on 11 April, 2024, 10:44:58 am
The braking material had come right off the metal backing plate.
I had that on a car once. The pad was newish and it was too thick to escape so I didn't loose braking.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 12 April, 2024, 11:51:33 pm
New commute is about 10 mins further, but I am responding very differently to it, a sweaty mess.  Mix of weather not helping.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: SteveC on 16 April, 2024, 05:44:17 pm
That was one of the worst rides home for ages. Tired legs from a lunchtime run, sun flickering through the trees, and the most horrendous headwind.
We have one of those 'your speed is' devices on the road into the village, it's there about one week in three. Usually it indicates 21 mph for me. Today, 16.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: fd3 on 16 April, 2024, 07:48:38 pm
Yesterday ride home was the worst for me.  Lea ing into the side wind and still being flung about.  Half way home stopped.admitting that over trousers were needed.
Followed by immediate and total cessation of rain and hail the moment I was.back on my bike.
Title: Re: On the commute today
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 17 April, 2024, 10:03:55 am
Left the office yesterday and as I was approaching Putney Bridge could see flickers of lightning and an apocalyptic looking cloud.  All through Richmond Park and Kingston the clouds became more threatening and the roads were saturated after Kingston.  But, apart from 10 minutes of not-horrendous rain through Esher, it stayed dry for me.  Only adventure was the batteries ran out in the rear light and I had to stop at the petrol station in Old Woking to get a couple of new AAAs.  Even then fortune smiled as (a) the rubber seal popped out on to a bag of compost where it was easy to see and (b) I managed to clip the back on the light first go despite a somewhat fatigued brain.  Was pushing my ETA so had to get into time trial mode for the rest of the way but made it with a minute to spare.